Bring On the School Holidays!

Yet another term has drawn to a close (I know, we can’t believe it either!). And so, the age-old question rears its head – ‘what on earth can I possibly do to keep the kids entertained these school holidays?’

If you are anything like us, we are constantly on the lookout for new ideas to keep the kids off the couch, and boy-oh-boy have we got the perfect list for you! We’ve found the best activities you need to survive these school holidays. From wet-weather friendly events to outdoor adventures, and with a mix of both free and paid events, we know exactly how you can keep the cabin fever at bay.

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Newcastle Museum

Every day is a new opportunity to learn, and school holidays are no exception! Head to the museum and keep the little minds firing with a range of exciting exhibitions, shows, and workshops. Kids are invited to get hands on and delve deeper into the secret life of a spy, or for those who are fascinated by all the wonders of the world, head to the new museum show, Fire and Ice!

Keen to get outdoors? On Friday 11th October, bring your picnic lunch and enjoy a family event with music, a petting zoo, entertainers and activities to celebrate the new Museum Park. Be sure to book soon; spaces are limited. For more details and dates visit www.newcastlemuseum.com.au

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Newcastle Region Libraries

It’s no secret; holidays are trying. If we hear “I’m bored” one more time we might lose all our hair! That’s where Newcastle Region Libraries can lend you a helping hand. With plenty on offer, you are sure to find holiday activities that will keep them off the screens and inspired all day long.

Kick-off the school holidays with some serious fun outdoors, or if it's looking a little grey and rainy outside, there is plenty to do inside! From hit events like the excellent DIY Terrariums Workshop or The Great Lego Challenge. There is sure to be something for all ages.

Bookings for all activities are essential. To find out what’s on near you, check out www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au

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Newcastle Art Gallery

Keep those creative minds buzzing when you head to Newcastle Art Gallery – open every day of the school holidays. Wander the gallery and discover incredible exhibitions, or book into one of the awesome workshops. Help your kids discover their inner artist at fantastic workshops, including the Drawing Faces and Portrait Painting workshop. Here, kids will explore the fundamentals of sketching, painting and creative development.

Both workshops are suitable for children aged 5–12, at the cost of $12 per person, with bookings essential. For more details visit www.nag.org.au

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Blackbutt Reserve

Looking for the perfect way to get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful weather? Get the family to Blackbutt Reserve for the ideal day out! Enjoy the Aussie Animal Painting workshop or the amazing reptile show. You can even let the kids blow off some steam at the adventure playground at Richley Reserve. For more details visit www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/Blackbutt-Reserve

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Lake Macquarie Libraries

Kids are sure to delight in a range of activities across the various Lake Macquarie Council libraries! Budding musicians will love the pop-up workshops like the Junkyard Beats Recycled music class, or for those interested in photography, be sure to check out the Cyanotypes workshop. For those keen to get outdoors, kids can even learn how to start their own native garden at the Gardening for Kids: veggies and native plants workshop.

Future artists can also enjoy a variety of workshops from learning how to build their very own sun catcher from recycled materials to discovering how to give everyday objects new life.

There will be plenty more activities on offer. Visit www.library.lakemac.com.au for more information, prices and to book your place.

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Out and About

Are the kids feeling a bit cooped up? Get them out of the house and burning off that energy! Enrol your little fish into the Learn2Swim – Holiday Intensive Program week. If your little one is more of an adrenaline junkie, get them to Charlestown and Speers Point Swim Centres to enjoy a full-throttle Laser Tag in a pool environment! For more information visit www.lakemac.com.au

For more amazing School Holiday Fun and Activities click here