Playgroups & Kids Activities in Ocala

Ocala has numerous playgroups throughout Marion County. Start with the Marion County Public Library system, which offers free story times at multiple branches including the Headquarters Branch, Freedom Branch, Forest Community Center, Belleview Branch, and Dunnellon Branch. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) groups meet at various local churches. Local gyms and recreation centers also host mommy-and-me classes. Informal parent meetup groups gather regularly at Tuscawilla Park and Jervey Gantt Parks.

Yes! Lowe's regularly hosts free Kids DIY Workshops, typically held monthly on Saturday mornings. These workshops are completely free and allow kids to build small projects they can take home. Each child receives an apron, safety goggles, and a commemorative pin. Projects rotate seasonally and are designed for children ages 4-12. Check the local Lowe's in Ocala for specific dates and current workshop schedules.

Free school physicals are typically offered in July and August through several organizations. The Marion County Health Department hosts free or low-cost physical exam clinics. AdventHealth Ocala runs community health events including free health screenings. WellFlorida Council and Lions Club chapters also provide free vision screenings and physical exams for school-age children. Contact the Marion County Health Department or check with your child's school for specific dates and locations.

Mommy and Me groups are parent-and-child activity classes designed for bonding and early childhood development. These include music classes, movement classes, baby sign language, and social playtime. Local gyms like Fitness franchises, recreation centers at Mary Sue Rich Community Center and E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, and private studios throughout Ocala offer these programs. Costs vary from free community programs to modest class fees for structured instruction.

Absolutely! Free toddler activities in Ocala include: library story times and baby play groups at Marion County Public Library branches, free park playtime at Tuscawilla Park and Jervey Gantt Parks, community center drop-in play sessions, and seasonal special events hosted by Marion County Parks and Recreation. Many local churches also offer free MOPS meetings and nursery playdates.

Marion County has several community centers offering kids programs: Mary Sue Rich Community Center, E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, and Forest Community Center. These centers offer summer camps, after-school programs, sports clinics, arts and crafts classes, and recreational sports. Many programs are low-cost or free for residents. Contact Marion County Parks and Recreation for current program offerings and registration details.

Lowe's Kids DIY Workshops typically occur on Saturday mornings, usually the first or second Saturday of each month. Specific dates and projects vary seasonally. Call your local Lowe's store in Ocala or check their website for current workshop schedules, as dates may change. Early arrival is recommended as spots fill quickly. Home Depot also offers similar Kids Workshop programs at their Ocala locations.

Free health screenings for children are available through the Marion County Health Department, AdventHealth Ocala community events, and seasonal back-to-school health fairs. Lions Club chapters throughout Marion County provide free vision screenings. WellFlorida Council coordinates additional health services. Contact the Marion County Health Department at their Ocala office for information on upcoming screening dates and what services are available.