School holidays are here, and it’s time to plan some fun-filled adventures! For parents of children with disabilities, finding inclusive and accessible activities is key to making the break special. Thankfully, Melbourne has plenty of options that cater to everyone.

From beach days to art workshops and even virtual museum tours, there’s no shortage of ideas to keep the whole family entertained. Let’s dive into some exciting activities for these school holidays!

Roll, Stroll, and Explore Nature’s Wonders – Trails and Gardens

Hit the great outdoors with wheelchair-accessible trails and sensory-friendly gardens. From gentle walks to all-terrain adventures, there’s a path for every explorer!

Where to Start:

• AllTrails Australia: Find top-rated accessible trails near you.
• Parks Victoria: Hire all-terrain wheelchairs for the ultimate outdoor experience.
• Victoria Walks: Check out their list of accessible nature walks.

Sun, Sand, and Wheelchair Matting – Let’s Hit the Beach!

Who says the beach isn’t accessible? Thanks to organisations like Accessible Beaches, you can enjoy sandy adventures with matting, accessible toilets, and all the vibes of summer fun.

Find Your Perfect Spot:

Head to Accessible Beaches for a list of wheelchair-friendly beaches near Melbourne.

Get Your Game On with Adaptive Sports

Does your child love being active? From wheelchair basketball to inclusive playgrounds, there are plenty of adaptive sports programs where kids can make friends, build confidence, and have a blast!

Check Out These Programs:

• Activate Inclusion: Fun events and sports for all abilities.

Create, Craft, and Get Messy with Art

Let their creativity shine with inclusive art and craft workshops! Perfect for kids who love getting hands-on, these sessions are designed for all abilities.

Where to Find Workshops:

Local community centres, libraries, and art studios often offer inclusive art classes.

Museums Without the Fuss

Step into a world of discovery with accessible museum tours and low-sensory sessions. Whether it’s history, science, or art, Melbourne’s museums make exploring easy and fun for everyone.

Must-Visit Museums:

• Melbourne Museum: Low-sensory sessions and autism-friendly resources.
• ArtVo: Jump into interactive art in a wheelchair-friendly space.
• Scienceworks: Get hands-on with activities perfect for curious minds.

Playground Adventures with a Twist

Inclusive playgrounds are the perfect spot for kids to climb, swing, and explore. These play spaces are designed so everyone can join in the fun.

Playtime Spots:

Check out Melbourne Playgrounds for a big list of accessible playgrounds.

Festivals, Fairs, and Fun Times

From sensory-friendly performances to relaxed gallery sessions, Melbourne is bursting with events that cater to kids with sensory sensitivities.

What’s On:

• NGV’s Relaxed Sessions: A quieter, kid-friendly art experience.
• Community Events: Check local council websites for sensory-friendly fairs.

Animal Adventures with Furry Friends

From meeting farm animals to observing exotic creatures, animal encounters are always a hit. Best of all, kids under 16 get free entry to the Melbourne Zoo during school holidays!

Top Animal Spots:

• Melbourne Zoo: Perfect for animal lovers.
• Collingwood Children’s Farm: Get hands-on with farm life.
• Animal Land Children’s Farm: A self-guided farm experience just 40 minutes from the city.

Lights, Camera, Action! Sensory-Friendly Cinema Trips

Movie time just got better with sensory-friendly screenings! Whether it’s dimmed lights, softer sound, or a relaxed vibe, these screenings let your little film buff enjoy the magic of movies stress-free.

Where to Catch a Flick:

• Hoyts Cinema: Monthly sensory-friendly screenings on Sundays.
• Event Cinemas: Ask about accessibility options at your local branch.
• Village Cinemas: Look for the “Sensory Friendly” icon in session times.

Time to Make Some Memories!

The school holidays are a chance to create unforgettable moments with your child. With Melbourne’s diverse range of inclusive activities, you’re sure to find something that suits your family. So, pack your bag, plan your day, and enjoy the holidays!

If you’re looking for a little extra support these holidays, our friendly team at Ability Assist is here to help. We can provide the assistance children and young people with disabilities need to access fun and engaging activities in the community. Let’s make these school holidays unforgettable together!