Wellbeing

Holiday Activity Guide & Resources

Spending time with family and loved ones during the holiday period is a wonderful way for young children to strengthen relationships, nurture social and cognitive development and foster emotional security and stability. Time spent together creates an environment in which children feel loved, supported, and part of something larger than themselves, laying the foundation for healthy relationships throughout their lives.

Spending time together doesn’t have to cost a lot of money or require large amounts of equipment. There are many free events, excursions and activities that can be done through out the state, the city and our local community. 

https://whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/ - What’s On Melbourne is a fantastic website where you can select different days, types of activities and locations that suit you. 

https://mammaknowsmelbourne.com.au/school-holidays - Mamma Knows has a series of websites that are location based. The Mamma Knows East website will give you activity ideas that are relatively local to the south east suburbs. If you are travelling, there is also Mamma Knows South, Mamma Knows North & Mamma Knows West. 

https://www.whitehorse.vic.gov.au/things-do/festivals-and-events/school-holidays - Whitehorse Council have a great website that has a whole range of activities from sports to arts, environment, history, family fun and there's something for all ages. 

https://www.playgroundfinder.com/ - Playground Finder is a wonderful website where you can search for small and large playgrounds in a specific area. There are details about the playgrounds including amenities such as toilets, BBQs, bike paths & all-ability access information. 

https://www.melbourneplaygrounds.com.au/best-activities-places-for-families-during-hot-weather-melbourne - Similar to the Playground Finder website above, Melbourne Playgrounds is specific to Melbourne and has some great ideas for water play spaces and things to do in hot weather. 

Sometimes the simplest activities can be the best, and easiest for all involved. 

Have Game Day - Board games, card games, or video games can encourage teamwork and friendly competition, making for enjoyable time together.

Cook Together - Involve everyone in preparing meals or baking. This promotes teamwork and teaches valuable life skills.

Create a Family Project - Work on a DIY project, such as gardening, crafting, or home improvement. Collaborative projects foster teamwork and creativity.

Set Aside Reading Time - Have family reading sessions where everyone picks a book. Discussing stories can enhance communication and understanding.

Engage in Outdoor Activities - Go hiking, biking, or have picnics. Physical activity is great for physical and mental health and strengthens family bonds.

At the end of the day, the actual activity that you do is not the important take away message. It’s all about spending time together and strengthening family connectedness. The connections that we build with our families, contribute to a healthier family dynamic and support each member’s growth and happiness.

As always, please feel free to reach out for more information about anything related to Friendology, student wellbeing or individual concerns you may have. I am contactable via compass, through the office or via email – louise.jarvis@education.vic.gov.au

Have a lovely weekend,

Louise Jarvis

Wellbeing Specialist Teacher