Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

A new guide is helping families in La Vallée-de-la-Gatineau discover the best local parks
equipped for children five years of age and under. Developed through a partnership between
Loisir sport Outaouais, the MRC de La Vallée-de-la-Gatineau, and the regional Public Health
Directorate, the guide maps out more than 20 municipal playgrounds across the region, offering
practical details to support planning family outings.

Each park listing includes descriptions of available amenities, such as washrooms, picnic tables,
shaded areas, and parking, as well as photos and links to video tours. The aim is to give
parents a clear sense of what to expect, especially in a rural area where some parks may be
over half an hour away. The guide’s creators visited each location in person, assessing the
parks from a user’s perspective to ensure the information is grounded in real experience.

Beyond convenience, the guide promotes the importance of outdoor play for early childhood
development. Citing health research and community expertise, it encourages unstructured
activity to support children’s physical, emotional, and social growth. It also offers tips for parents
on balancing safety with the freedom kids need to explore, take risks, and engage with the
natural environment.

By highlighting the region’s parks in detail and making them more accessible, the guide invites
families to make the most of the warmer months through regular, active play in their
communities. Whether it’s a nearby green space or a destination park for a weekend outing, the
guide aims to turn everyday adventures into meaningful childhood memories.

To download the guide, please visit the following link: https://www.urlso.qc.ca/wp-
content/uploads/2025/05/Guide-des-equipements-0-5-ans-1.pdf

Photo: A new regional guide highlights over 20 parks in La Vallée-de-la-Gatineau designed for
children aged five and under, complete with practical details and amenities—including several
with water play areas—encouraging families to explore and enjoy outdoor spaces throughout
the warmer months. (TF) Photo: Courtesy of Loisir sport Outaouais