Top 5 Toddler Activities in Hampton Roads

A young mother wearing a tan jumpsuit rubs noses with her toddler, wearing a jean dress. She is always looking for fun toddler activities in Hampton Roads.

There’s no doubt about it, our toddlers are constantly on the go! My own little one has such a fascination with life and learning. So I’m constantly on the lookout for fun activities to keep her entertained and moving. And the bonus? Toddler activities are a great way for me to get out and meet other mamas! We all know how hard it can be to make mom friends, but toddler activity time is a great first step. In this blog post, I will round up the best toddler activities in Hampton Roads.

Toddler Storytime

As a bookworm myself, one of my favorite things to share with my children is reading. What’s even more amazing, is how many places offer story time for toddlers. Toddler story time not only gives kiddos exposure to books and reading, but also gives them playtime with their peers. Although not offered every week, here is a small list of places in Hampton Roads that sometimes offer story time.

Trampoline Parks

Trampoline parks are a fun indoor activity for kids of all ages. But parents of toddlers may be a little hesitant to take their children as the big kids can get wild. Well, there’s good news! A couple of the Hampton Roads area trampoline parks offer special times, just for toddlers. Be sure to check out:

Little Leapers: on weekday mornings, children ages 6 and under can enjoy discounted jump time with their parents at Sky Zone in Chesapeake.
Toddler Time: on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, Get Air in Virginia Beach allows only kids 46” and shorter onto their trampolines. This creates a nice, safe jump environment for the littles!

A toddler wearing orange overalls crawls along a bridge. She is enjoying a hike, which is a fun toddler activity in Hampton Roads.

Two sisters sit on the grass. The youngest sister, a one year old in a purple dress, sits in her older sisters lap.

Toddler Programs at the Aquarium

Did you know the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center has weekly activities for toddlers? On Toddler Tuesdays they hold a literacy program in their South Building. Wednesdays are for STEM based learning. And on Thursdays they have Toddler Trek, which is a fun guided nature walk. You can get more information about their toddler programs here.

Dance and Tumbling

Another great option for toddler activities in Hampton Roads is a dance or tumbling class. Not only are these classes a great way for them to move their little bodies, but they also help them to develop their motor skills. Here are a couple of options for places that have rolling admissions, allowing you to join a class at any time.

Music in Motion Dance Studio: located in Virginia Beach this studio has movement and tumbling classes beginning at age one.
The Little Gym: While dance and independent tumbling don’t start until age 3, the Little Gym does offer a parent and me class beginning at age 18 months. You can find information about the Chesapeake location classes here.

Swim Lessons: an Important Toddler Activity in Hampton Roads

Swim lessons are an excellent option for a toddler activity. Not only are they fun (for most kids) but they are teaching your child vital skills. Hampton Roads is an area with a lot of access to water. Swimming is an important skill for everyone who lives here to learn, including toddlers. Here are some of the best options for swim lessons in Hampton Roads:

Katie’s Kickers: located in Norfolk, Katie’s Kickers offers parent and me, group, and even private swim lessons. They come highly recommended and are considered one of the best in the area.
YMCA: always a great option, most YMCA locations offer swim lessons. You do not have to be a member to register for swim lessons, though you will pay a premium for the class if you are not a member.
City of Norfolk: the Norfolk Parks and Rec centers offer swim lessons at a few of their recreational facilities. You can see their current lists of classes here.

A two year old girl wearing a white dress and cowgirl boots stands in a sunflower field. Sunflower picking is a fun activity to do with toddlers in Hampton Roads.

A toddler boy, wearing an off white sweater and tan striped pants is being held by his dad. You can see his dad's black wedding band.

A toddler, wearing a maroon romper, stands on a white blanket. She is having a picnic in a wildflower field, which is a fun activity to do with toddlers in Hampton Roads.

Toddler Activities in Hampton Roads

While not an exhaustive list, I hope this gave you some ideas for fun toddler activities in Hampton Roads. From story time to swimming, there are so many ways you can engage your toddler that will help them learn and grow. This is a time in their life where their enthusiasm is unmatched and we want to help them experience new things. It can only benefit them in the future.

As a family photographer, I’ve had the opportunity to work with so many families in the area. Some of whom I’ve even run into at a toddler activity or two! If you happen to be in need of family photos to capture these fun, crazy toddler years, I would love to serve you! Reach out today and let’s talk about your vision.