Keep your kids busy in Melbourne these school holidays
Published summer 2017
With Christmas and the new year fast approaching, December can be a stressful time for parents. School holidays are either impending or already underway for primary and secondary students across Australia, meaning they are in need of extra supervision and stimulation.
There is plenty to keep your child occupied in and around Melbourne, whether they are a primary-schooler or a teenager entering the final years of their secondary education. To save time, we’ve put together a list of great activities that won’t break the bank.
Scienceworks
A blend of fun, interesting and educational, Scienceworks has been a Melbourne institution for years. With free entry for children under 16, you can race against Australian Gold Medallist Cathy Freeman or visit the Lightning Room. There’s even a Coding with Scratch workshop on February 17 for $40 per child.
Big Bash Cricket
If your child is into sport, the Big Bash League cricket is a foolproof option. Suitable for any age group, the BBL includes two Melbourne sides, Stars and Renegades, and unlike a Test Match, is over within an action-packed three hours. Best of all, tickets are $20 for adults, $5 for kids and $42 for a family pass (two adults and two kids).
Screen Worlds at ACMI
Running daily from 10am-5pm and free of charge, the Screen Worlds exhibit at Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) is a great way to spend a few years. Learn about the history of digital culture and how different mediums have been used over time, become Neo from The Matrix in the Time Splice room and enter The Turning Forest for an interactive virtual reality experience.
1,000 Steps
More suited to teenagers who like to get outside, the Kokoda Memorial Walk (commonly known as the 1000 Steps) is a trail at the foot of the Dandenong Ranges and the perfect start to a Saturday morning. Tackle the three-kilometre trek, take in the beautiful scenery, and don’t forget to snap a photo, all for free.
If you are thinking more about structured extracurricular activities, check out our article on the benefits of learning a musical instrument.
