Family Zone
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
m.lehmann@yarraranges.vic.gov.au
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
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
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