Summer is the perfect season for little ones to explore, play, and discover new things, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to make it memorable. Across the New Orleans area, families can find plenty of free and low-cost activities that keep their kids learning while making lasting family memories.
These everyday experiences also help support early childhood education by building the foundational skills children need for success. Whether it’s hands-on play, story time at the library, outdoor adventures, or a trip to the farmers market, there’s something for everyone before the school year rolls around.
Learn Through Play at TrainingGrounds
According to the Child Mind Institute, even just five minutes of play each day can strengthen a caregiver-child relationship—especially when caregivers join their child’s play, follow their lead, and engage in their world.
TrainingGrounds makes learning through play easy and fun with several free programs for families. The We PLAY Center is filled with engaging activities where children can explore while parents, grandparents, and caregivers join in the fun. It’s a great place to play together while supporting your child’s early childhood education and brain development.
You can also check out We TEACH workshops and We COACH programs, which offer practical tips for encouraging healthy development, understanding milestones, and building strong family connections.
Need help finding additional resources? The We CONNECT Family Resource HUB can connect families with developmental screenings, health resources, family navigation services, and other helpful supports throughout the New Orleans area.
Learn more and sign up for a free membership at: https://www.traininggroundsnola.org/
Make the Library Your Summer Hangout
A free library card for Orleans Parish residents unlocks even more opportunities, including access to the library’s Culture Pass, which offers free admission to select local museums and cultural attractions. It’s an easy way to add even more family adventures to your summer calendar.
Find programs, get a library card, and learn more at: https://nolalibrary.org/
To learn more about the Culture Pass, visit: https://nolalibrary.libcal.com/passes
Stay Active With NORD
Looking for ways to burn off some toddler energy? NORD has you covered. The New Orleans Recreation Development Commission (NORD) offers free and affordable activities across the city, including playground programs, swimming, sports, fitness classes, summer camps, and family-friendly community events.
It’s a fun way for children to stay active, make new friends, and keep learning through play all summer long. See what’s happening near you at: https://nordc.org/home/
Turn Grocery Shopping Into an Adventure
A visit to the Crescent City Farmers Market can be so much more than checking items off your grocery list. It’s a chance for little ones to see colorful fruits and vegetables, meet local farmers, and learn where their food comes from.
Many markets also offer nutrition incentive programs that help eligible families stretch their grocery budgets while bringing home fresh, locally grown produce. Throughout the year, you’ll often find family activities and educational events that make every visit even more fun.
Find market locations and schedules at: https://www.crescentcityfarmersmarket.org/
Make This Summer One to Remember
With free and affordable resources like TrainingGrounds, the New Orleans Public Library, NORD, and the Crescent City Farmers Market, families have plenty of opportunities to learn, play, and grow together all summer long. Every story you read, game you play, and new experience you share helps build your toddler’s early childhood education.
The first day of school is right around the corner, and every fun summer adventure is another opportunity to help your child feel confident and ready to learn. As you prepare for the new school year, NOLA Public Schools is excited to welcome students back for another year of learning, growth, and success.
Be sure to check your school’s website and communications for important back-to-school dates, registration information, and upcoming events. We can’t wait to welcome your family back. Have a safe, fun, and adventure-filled finish to your summer, and we’ll see you soon!