As a mom of little ones, finding support, play opportunities, and learning resources (especially FREE) can be a game changer. Whether you’re navigating the newborn stage or looking for activities for your toddlers, New Hanover County/Wilmington offers some wonderful community resources that are designed just for you.
Here are the top four free (or cheap) resources every local mom should know about:
1. Smart Start of New Hanover County
What it is?
Smart Start is a community-based nonprofit that supports families with young children, especially from birth to age 5. Their focus is on early learning, play, and building strong parent-child connections.
Resource Room
Parents and caregivers of children birth to five have FREE access to books, learning materials, and a play space for their little ones. Early educators and child care providers have access to books, activity kits, and low-cost supplies for their classrooms.
For just $5 for the year, you can check out toys, book and exploration book bags too.
Parenting Resources
Kaleidoscope Play & Learn Groups
Free weekly playgroups for kids ages 0–5 led by trained facilitators. Families enjoy guided play, early learning activities, and parent support — all at no cost.
Circle of Parents
Free peer-support groups for parents and caregivers of children ages 0–8. Families share a meal together, kids enjoy age-appropriate activities, and parents connect in a supportive environment.
Special Needs Support
A weekly Circle of Parents group specifically for families of children with special needs or health care needs. Includes free meals for the whole family and programming for children ages 0–12.
Triple P® (Positive Parenting Program)
Workshops and seminars for parents of children ages 0–5, offering practical strategies for building confidence, resilience, and strong family relationships.
Parents as Teachers
A home-visiting and group-based program that supports parents in understanding child development and school readiness through personalized guidance and community activities.
Childcare Guidance
Smart Start can help families find preschool and daycare options by sharing information on openings and programs that may be the best fit for your child.
2. FitForFun – City of Wilmington
What it is?
Operated by the City of Wilmington’s Parks & Recreation Department, this unique indoor play space is designed especially for children ages 6 months to 5 years old and their adult caregivers.
The space includes a large indoor playroom, art room (with craft projects), small toys and imaginative playroom, fully fences in outdoor playground (with no big drop offs), and they host staff-led programs and special events.
Daily Admission: $6 per child (ages 6 months – 9) ; adults enter free
Museums For All
Free admission for families presenting a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, and a valid form of photo ID (up to four individuals per EBT card).
In the summer months, they often have Park Pop-Ups where you can connect and meet other families at a designated park.
3. New Hanover County Public Library
What it is?
Your library card is one of the most powerful FREE resources for families and it’s so much more than checking out books.
What the Library Offers Families
Storytimes for Babies, Toddlers & Preschoolers – Regular early literacy programs that include books, songs, and movement
Other Resources (Free with Your Library Card)
- ABCmouse — an interactive early learning platform (reading, math, colors, puzzles)
- TumbleBooks, eBooks, audiobooks, and more children’s educational content
- NC Kids Digital Library
- Library of Things: A unique collection of educational and entertaining kits, crafts, games for you to take home and try out! Library cardholders can check out 1 kit at a time for a period of 3 weeks.
The Children’s Museum of Wilmington Museum Passes (Free with Checkout) – 2 adults, 4 kids
- Add your name to the list and enjoy a free visit to the museum – you can do this online using your card.
4. Halyburton Park Nature Center
Operated by City of Wilmington Parks and Recreation, Halyburton Park Nature Center is
Animal Ambassador Feedings: Stop by the Nature Center to watch snakes and turtles get fed and learn fun facts. Free.
Little Explorers Program: Ages 2 – 5 years old, $3/each (adults free) discover nature through a hikes in the park, experiments, and activities.
Nature’s Back Pack Rentals: Each backpack contains lessons, activities and equipment to learn about birds, mammals, insects, nature journaling and ponds.
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