parenting in toronto

From parks to poutines, this is your all-in-one guide to being a dad (and human) in the 6ix.

Why Toronto Matters to Me

I’m Michael Cusden — marketing pro, dad of H (2009) and C (2012), and a Torontonian by choice (since our move from Halifax in 2014). Whether we’re chasing Raptors wins, schlepping to soccer in High Park, or hunting down the perfect Dad And Me date, Toronto is our backdrop — and this page is our city shout-out.

Think of this as your roadmap for parenting, exploring, eating, and living well in Toronto — with kids (and a sense of humour) in tow.

Best Kid-Friendly Parks & Outdoor Spots

Green space is Toronto’s lifeblood — and there’s no shortage of great ones:

From splash pads to sled hills, I’ve tested these with my own crew — and some got absolutely trashed by C. Worth it, though.

Family Restaurants & Kid-Approved Eats

Toronto eats big, but parents eat smart. These spots are low-stress, taste-tested by picky eaters, and still cool enough for Instagram photos.

Events, Festivals & Seasonal Fun

Toronto’s calendar is always poppin’. Here’s where we’ve taken the boys for festivals, fairs, and weekend wanderings:

Family Life in Toronto

This is the day-to-day, behind-the-scenes part of parenting in the city — navigating school commutes, housing, public transit, and suburban versus city life:

Real Stories: Toronto Through a Dad’s Eyes

A personal collection of posts that capture what Canadian metropolitan parenting really feels like:

Toronto Resources & Tips

Quick links, local wisdom, and dad-approved hacks:

Explore More Like A Dad

Toronto Dad Life: FAQ

Is Toronto a good place to raise a family?

Yes — if you’re okay with trading square footage for walkable neighbourhoods, world-class parks, and cultural diversity, your kids can actually grow up in. Toronto’s got excellent public schools, tons of kid-friendly events, and enough urban nature to feel like you’re not trapped in concrete. But yeah… housing prices? Not great. I am not going to pretend it’s not stupid, expensive to even try and live in this city. That’s why I feel incredibly lucky and grateful to be able to do it.

What are the best things to do in Toronto with kids?

Plenty. Here are just a few that won’t break the bank:

Where’s the best neighbourhood in Toronto for families?

That depends on your vibe. We’re a west-end family, but here’s the quick hit list:

  • The Kingsway
  • Leaside
  • High Park
  • Roncesvalles
  • Davisville Village
  • Mount Pleasant
  • Bloor West Village
  • Swansea
  • Riverdale
  • Danforth East
  • Cliffside

We raised two kids in Parkdale and have stories from every corner. Spoiler: No area is perfect, but they all have something going for them. Where do you live? What’s your fave neighbourhood in Toronto?

How do you get around the city with kids?

TTC if you’re brave. Bike if you’re brave and lucky. Car, when you absolutely must. We’ve done it all — stroller on streetcar, toddler on subway meltdown, the works. My advice? Pack snacks, manage expectations, and keep your sense of humour loaded. Not having to pay for kids to ride the TTC until they are 12 is a huge win.

What are the best Toronto events for families?

Some annual favourites:

  • Pedestrian Sundays in Kensington
  • Toronto Christmas Market (although it’s a bit busy for me)
  • Nuit Blanche (early, before the weird stuff starts)
  • Outdoor movies in the park
  • Anything at Nathan Phillips Square