Family Zone is a page where resources will be shared with families about supports that may be of benefit. These may include online, at home, or ideas for holiday/after school activities.

In this edition, you will find information relating to:

Parent Zone Easter - Term 3 Newsletter 2026
Parent Zone Podcasts
Holiday programs/ ideas for primary school aged students.

Parent Zone Eastern - Term 3 Newsletter 2026

ParentZone Eastern provides resources for parents, carers, and professionals in the Eastern Region. We offer a range of in-person and online parent education programs.

Our programs are not one-size-fits-all, many are co-designed with parents to reflect their needs, challenges, and strengths. Because every child is unique and responds to different parenting approaches, each program is tailored to support families effectively.

All our programs are free of charge.

Find out more on our website. You’ll find details about programs near you, our ParentZone podcasts, and an option to subscribe to our quarterly newsletter.

For free parenting resources in your local area, explore our ‘What‘s On Guide.’

Contact us on:

parentzone.eastern@anglicarevic.org.au

12 Free Parenting Podcasts - available now!

Podcasts for parents, carers and those who support others with their parenting.

The ParentZone Teams are delighted to bring you TWELVE ParentZone Pods for you and the families you support.

Each Pod identifies and explores common issues parents bring to our parenting groups and offers strategies to try in these situations.

Individual Parenting Sessions

Did you know ParentZone facilitators now offer individual parenting sessions?

What is it?

Individual parenting sessions, which aim to provide brief and early support for families who are experiencing parenting challenges.

• Focus on a specific parenting goal

• Build confidence, skills, and problem-solving strategies

• Support you to find clear, flexible solutions to a parenting situation

How it helps:

• Individual sessions focused on a specific parenting goal

• Build confidence, skills and problem-solving strategies

• Find practical solutions tailored to your family

• Address issues early before they escalate

Perfect for parents who:

✔ Have limited time

✔ Want positive parenting strategies

✔ Are ready to make a change

Take the first step today.

Call (03) 9721 3646 or email parentzone.eastern@anglicarevic.org.au to book your session.

Holiday Programs/ Ideas for Primary School Aged Students

Junior Farmers School Holiday Program

Dates: 30th June to 2nd July. 10 am to 2 pm.

Duration: 4 hr

Cost: $60 per child per day, Family of 4 children $50 per child per day.Location: 205 Owens Rd, Woori Yallock, VIC, Australia

Description

We are now taking Junior Farmers Holiday Program enrolments for now.We are offering an immersive animal interactive hands-on farming program for primary children with our farm animals.Parents are welcome to stay and enjoy the program with their child/children.Limited numbers accepted. Enrol early to ensure a placement in the program.

Includes:

Learning about feeding our animals
Connection and friendships over a snack and cuppa.
Spending time and connection, fun while applying compassion for our animals.
Discovery of Knowledge, self and abilities.
Art and craft creations from nature, recycle, repurpose.

Contact: Woori Yallock Therapy Farm Email: wooriyallocktherapyfarm@gmail.com

Animal Rescue (10 - 14 years) Winter

Date: Thu, 2 Jul, 9:30am - 3pm

Location: RSPCA Victoria - Burwood East

Cost: $120

Age: 10 – 14 years

Description

Let’s meet an RSPCA Inspector and discover how our animal police work within the laws to help animals and their owners. Interact with our friendly pets and farm animals to discover how their lives changed thanks to RSPCA staff and volunteers.

What you will learn

Try your hand at solving simulated rescue cases based on real life animal neglect scenarios

https://events.humanitix.com/animal-rescue-10-14-years-winter

First Aid for Pets (10 - 14 years) Winter

Date: Mon, 6 Jul, 9:30am - 3pm AEST

Cost: $120

Location: RSPCA Victoria - Burwood East

Description

Would you know how to respond to an animal emergency? Let us teach you how to identify which incidents may require veterinary assistance and help you to keep yourself safe in a variety of first aid situations involving animals.

*This program is available to participants aged 10-14 years.

What you will learn

Introduction to applying basic first aid (DRSABC)
How to complete a basic animal health check
Learn how to bandage an injured limb
Learn how to spot early signs of illness in animals

https://events.humanitix.com/first-aid-for-pets-10-14-years-winter

Fun and Games (7 - 12 years) Winter

Date: Thu, 9 Jul, 9:30am - 3pm AEST

Location: RSPCA Victoria - Burwood East

Cost: $120

Description

Join us for a day of fun and games at RSPCA!

Just like us, animals love to play and the right activities can help keep our furry friends active and happy. During this program, we will discover how to provide appropriate play for a range of pets and farm animals. Discover how the enrichment we make can change an animals life. Don’t worry we have plenty of kids games too!

*This program is available to participants aged 7-12 years.

What you will learn

Learn what games animals find fun and why it's important to provide them with activities
Create some 'enriching' games and puzzles for animals
Visit the barn to hear the stories of our rescued animals

https://events.humanitix.com/fun-and-games-7-12-years-winter

Actions for Animals (7 - 12 years) Winter

Date: Fri, 10 Jul, 9:30am - 3pm AEST

Location: RSPCA Victoria - Burwood East

Cost: $120

Description

At Actions for Animals Day, kids will connect with rescued animals and learn practical ways they can help animals at home, at school and in the community.

*This program is available to participants aged 7-12 years.

What you will learn

Turn kindness into action through animal experiences, storytelling and meaningful activities
Participants will explore how their actions and choices can create a better world for animals
Visit the barn to hear the stories of our rescued animals.

Dad and Me - Build It (Suitable for children aged 4 to 12 years old)

Date: Tuesday, 30 June 2026 | 06:30 PM to 08:00 PM

Location: Yarra Ranges Council Civic Centre, 15 Anderson St Lilydale, VIC, 3140, Lilydale

Cost: Free

Description

‘Build It’ is an interactive school holiday activity for children with their dads and male carers.

Participants can enjoy an evening with a variety of hands-on activities, including building with Lego/Duplo, PLANKS designing, a paper plane challenge and a creative "Dad and Me" wind car build. Location:

Cost: Free

Booking is required https://www.trybooking.com/events/1597122/sessions/6491471/sections/3083806/tickets

Contact

Yarra Ranges Council Family and Children's Services

0407319456

m.lehmann@yarraranges.vic.gov.au

Book Build It

How To Train Your Dragon - Free Screening

Date: Wednesday, 01 July 2026 | 07:00 PM to 09:00 PM

Location: Mooroolbark Community Centre, 125 Brice Ave, Mooroolbark

Cost: Free

About the Movie

Year: 2025 Director: Dean DeBlois Rating PG Genre: Fantasy, Family, Action Runtime: 125 min (plus intermission for free ice cream cones)

Synopsis: On the rugged isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have been bitter enemies for generations, Hiccup stands apart, defying centuries of tradition when he befriends Toothless, a feared Night Fury dragon. Their unlikely bond reveals the true nature of dragons, challenging the very foundations of Viking society.

Booking essential - https://yarraranges.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/164775

Dreadful Dragons - Children's performance

Date: Thursday, 02 July 2026 at10:00 AM to 10:45 AM

Location: Monbulk Community Hall, 21 Main Street, Monbulk

Cost: Free

Description

King Cranky Pants’ court is in an uproar!

Sir Lee, his famous Knight, has disappeared and a fierce fire-breathing dragon is heading straight toward his castle! He needs a hero to save the day!

Can you help save Sir Lee?

This hilarious and interactive performance is suitable for children aged 3 to 8 years old.

Booking is required https://www.trybooking.com/events/1597135/sessions/6491514/sections/3083846/tickets

Contact

Yarra Ranges Council Family and Children's Services

0407319456

m.lehmann@yarraranges.vic.gov.au

Wooden Spoon Characters & Stained Glass Jars

Date: Monday, 06 July 2026 | 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

Cost Full Fee - $8 | Children's Makerspace Member: $4

Location: Japara Bridge House and Gardens, 49 Durham Road, Kilsyth

Description: Design your own magical stained glass jar and bring a wooden spoon character to life! Transform simple wooden spoons into playful heroes, fairies, magical creatures or any character with colourful craft supplies.

Then design a stained glass jar decorating it with vibrant colours, whimsical details, and a touch of magic. All materials are provided. Just bring your creativity and get ready for a morning of colourful fun!

For children aged 5 – 12

Bookings; https://www.socialplanet.com.au/activity/view?id=47792

Silly Superhero's - Children's performance

Suitable for children aged 3 to 12 years old.

Date: Monday, 06 July 2026 | 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM

Location: Yarra Ranges Council Civic Centre, 15 Anderson St Lilydale

Cost: Free

Description

At the Flying High Superhero Academy, Captain Clumsy Pants has a new mission: defeat Wanda the Wicked Wand!

Join him on a cape-tripping adventure and help him save the day!Enjoy this hilarious and interactive performance. Booking required - https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1597151.

Soft Play & Disco

Date: Monday, 06 July 2026 | 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM or 12:30 – 2:00pm

Location: The Parents Hub, 168 Manchester Road, Mooroolbark

Cost: $20 Casual - Your ticket includes entry for up to 2 children

Description

Get ready for a fun and relaxed school holiday morning at The Parents Hub!

We’re so excited to be teaming up with Yarra Ranges Party Co to bring you our Soft Play & Disco Pop-Up, a special play session designed especially for little ones under 5 and their grown-ups.

Enjoy 1.5 hours of play in a beautiful soft play setup, plus access to our much-loved disco room for dancing, music and fun! While the little ones play, parents can enjoy a complimentary hot drink, connect with other local families and soak up a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

This is the perfect low-pressure school holiday activity for little ones who love to move, explore and play.

Your ticket includes entry for up to 2 children.

Two sessions are available on Monday 6 July:

Session 1: 10:00 am to 11:30 am
Session 2: 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm

Join us at The Parents Hub, Mooroolbark!

Designed for ages 0 to 5 years old
Free hot drink for parents
Disco room open for discoing!

Spots are limited and expected to book quickly.

Booking: https://theparentshub.com.au/events/

Spike the Echidna

Date: Monday, 06 July 2026 | 10:00 AM

Location: Montrose Town Centre, 935 Mt Dandenong Tourist Rd, Montrose

Cost: $16 Full $11 Under 12

Description

Follow a baby echidna on his journey to find out where he belongs.…

Shadow Puppetry Workshop: Playing with Light

Watch as your drawings leap to life, off the page and onto the stage!

Come along and explore the world of shadow puppetry with an experienced puppeteer, Jenny Ellis. This hands-on workshop will give children a range of skills to make their own shows and as well as a puppet they can take home. Participants will imagine and design their own unique puppet characters, then they’re guided through the process of making their puppets and bringing them to life. Children will work together in small groups to create their own shows. With a few tricks of the trade, they will finish with a performance of their own stories on a real shadow puppet stage.

Workshop Duration: 60 minsAges: 4 – 12 (6 years and under need to be accompanied by an adult)

Tickets are only needed for children. Supervising adults don't need a ticket.Bookings: https://yarraranges.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/162870

Minions & Monsters - ITAT special screening

Date: Sat 11 Jul 2026, 01:00 PM

Location: The Memo, 235 Maroondah Hwy, Healesville, 3777

Cost: $9.00

Description

Your local It Takes a Town (ITAT) community committee proudly presents Minions & Monsters. A film the whole family can enjoy!

What’s in store?

Discounted movie tickets
A FREE banana Paddle Pop!
Great company
A ridiculously good time on the big screen

It’s the perfect event for the whole family to kick back, enjoy the on-screen antics, and connect with others in the community.

So, grab your friends, grab your snacks, and let’s make this movie event one to remember!

About the film:

This is the rambunctious, ridiculous and totally true story of how the Minions conquered Hollywood, became movie stars, lost everything, unleashed monsters onto the world and then banded together to try and save the planet from the mayhem they had just created.

Bookings: https://yarraranges.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/165883

Maroondah Leisure School Holiday Programs

We offer a great range of school holiday programs at The Rings and Maroondah Nets. Kids from 5 to 14 years can enjoy their favourite sports such as basketball, netball and tennis or experience a new one! Our multi-sports day offers a great opportunity to try various sports as the kids spend the day rotating through a range of activities.

Our programs are a fun-filled way to keep your child active, entertained and socialised during the school holidays – no matter the weather. On hot days, they enjoy the coolness of our air conditioned stadiums. On wet days, they stay dry and warm.

Children can attend for just one day or join us for multiple days. Simply choose the available dates that suit you.

For the following events - https://www.maroondahleisure.com.au/What-we-offer/School-Holiday-Programs

Badminton

Introduce your child to a fast and fun social racquet sport. Badminton strengthens muscles, enhances reflexes and increases motor coordination. Our coaches will cover the fundamental skills of the game through fun drills, games and match play.

Venue: Maroondah Nets, 154 Heathmont Road, Heathmont
Available dates: Tuesday 30 June 2026
Time: 9.15am to 3.15pm
Age group: 7 to 14 years
Cost: $72 per day
Please note: bookings are subject to availability

Basketball

Keep your child active and learning some awesome basketball moves at the same time. Our experienced coaches ensure children have loads of fun with skills coaching, team games and more.

Venue: The Rings, 362 Canterbury Rd, Ringwood
Week 1 available dates: Monday 29 June to Thursday 2 July 2026
Week 2 available dates: Monday 6 July to Wednesday 8 July 2026
Time: 9.30am to 3.30pm each day
Age group: 5 to 12 years
Cost: $64.50 per day (book one day or multiple)
Suitable for children of all abilities

Futsal (indoor soccer)

Your child will improve their indoor soccer skills and knowledge. Our experienced coaches will ensure that your child has an absolute blast while meeting great people and being active.

Venue: Maroondah Nets, 154 Heathmont Road, Heathmont
Available dates: Tuesday 7 July and Wednesday 8 July 2026
Time: 9.15am to 3.15pm
Age group: 5 to 12 years
Cost: $64.50 per day (book one or both days)
Please note all bookings are subject to availability

Multi-sports

A unique opportunity to experience a variety of sports in one day! There are age-specific programs for children aged 5 to 12 years, suitable for children of all abilities. Multi-sports school holiday programs are a great way to try out a sport and meet new friends.

Ringwood

Venue: The Rings, 362 Canterbury Rd, Ringwood
Available date: Thursday 9 July 2026
Time: 9.30am to 3.30pm each day
Age group: 5 to 12 years
Cost: $72 per day (please note: bookings are subject to availability)

Heathmont

Venue: Maroondah Nets, 154 Heathmont Road, Heathmont
Available date: Monday 6 July 2026
Time: 9.15am to 3.15pm
Age Group: 5 to 12 years
Cost: $72 per day
Please note: bookings are subject to availability

Netball

A program providing the opportunity for your child to enhance their netball skills. Games, skills sessions and match play help improve strength, speed, agility and balance. A social, safe and indoor program suitable for children of all abilities.

Venue: Maroondah Nets, 154 Heathmont Road, Heathmont
Available dates: Wednesday 1 July to Friday 3 July 2026
Time: 9.15am to 3.15pm
Age group: 5 to 12 years
Cost: $64.50 per day (book one day or multiple)
Please note: bookings are subject to availability.

Tennis

A tennis program with the opportunity for your child to develop skills in a social, safe and indoor program suitable for children of all abilities.

Venue: Maroondah Nets, 154 Heathmont Road, Heathmont
Available dates: Thursday 9 July and Friday 10 July 2026
Time: 9.15am to 3.15pm
Age Group: 5 to 12 years
Cost: $72 per day (book one or both days)
Please note all bookings are subject to availability.

Volleyball

A program providing the opportunity for your child to enhance their volleyball skills. Games, skills sessions and match play will help improve agility and balance. A social, safe and indoor program suitable for children of all abilities.

Venue: Maroondah Nets, 154 Heathmont Road, Heathmont
Available date: Tuesday 30 June 2026
Time: 9.15am to 3.15pm
Age group: 7 to 14 years
Cost: $64.50 per day
Please note: bookings are subject to availability

Risky Kids – For Winter Holidays

Our school holiday programs are three hours each day and are filled with fun games, Ninja style challenges and Parkour style training.

Programs are open for ages 5 to 13 and are perfect for active kids who love to climb, jump and explore! Each day is designed to keep kids active, entertained and engaged, whilst building resilience and positive mindsets.

https://riskykids.com/school-holiday-program-bookings#book-now

Wyreena school holiday workshops

Location: 13-23 Hull Road, Croydon

https://www.maroondah.vic.gov.au/files/assets/public/v/1/documents/explore/art-in-maroondah/wyreena/brochures/wyreena-winter-school-holiday-2026.pdf

Pop Up CardsBuild cards with 3D effects in this fun workshop. Each card will reveal a different pop-up effect: a stage with props, and a chatty mouth!

Date: Wednesday 8 July 2026

Age: 8 to 12 years

Time: 12:30pm to 2pm

Cost: $36.50 includes materials

Date: Thursday, 09 July 2026

Age: 5 – 7 years old

Time: 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

Cost: $36.50 includes materials

Felt Bag Charms

Create your very own bag charm out of felt. With the tutor’s help, you can design any shape you like, such as food, flowers, footballs or more!

Add some fun and colour to your school bag!

Please bring a towel and bucket.

Date: Monday, 06 July 2026

Age: 8-12 year olds

Time: 12:30 pm to 02:00 pm

Cost: $37

Felt Pencil Toppers

Individualise your pencils and pens with felt! Make your own pencil toppers using colourful felt. Create fun shapes and designs to make your pencils stand out!

Date: Monday 6 July 2026

Age: 5 to 7 years

Time: 10am to 11.30am

Cost: $36 includes materials

Paint the Ocean

It might be winter, but this workshop will help you imagine Summer! Learn to paint a dynamic ocean wave using acrylic paint. Focus on building the scene with colour and shape and take your finished masterpiece home with you. Please bring an art smock.

Date: Tuesday 7 July 2026

Age: 5 to 7 years

Time: 10am to 11.30am

Cost: $38 includes materials

Date: Tuesday 7 July 2026

Age: 8 to 12 years Time: 12.30pm to 2pm

Cost: $38 includes materials

Upcycled Underwater Animals

Make an underwater creature out of recycled paper. Use your imagination to design your character and use texta and paint to decorate it.

Date: Wednesday 8 July 2026

Age: 5 to 7 years

Time: 10am to 11.30am

Cost: $35 includes materials

Story in a Jar

Date: Wednesday, 08 July 2026 |

Age: 8-12 year olds

Time: 12:30 PM to 02:00 PM

Cost: $36.50

Wellbeing