Eight Ways to Entertain The Kids in Winter Hols
Winter doesn’t have to equal the blues on the Central Coast.
There are loads of fun things happening indoors and outdoors so no matter what Mother Nature serves up these school holidays, the littlies will be happy and entertained.
Here’s our July school holiday guide to ensure the winter break sizzles despite the chill (and best of all – most activities cost less than $15!).
Central Coast farm
The Harvest Fest was such a hit, Grace Springs Farm is once again opening its gate for a farm tour and morning tea on July 6. The family-owned and operated farm at Kulnura is home to grass fed and dairy cows and pasture-raised chickens and muscovy ducks. Primary school aged children are invited to see how the animals are raised and take a peep at some of the organic garlic growing over winter. Tickets are $15 per person over the age of three and an adult is required to accompany each child.
Ice skating in Kibble Park
Get your skates on and head to Gosford’s Kibble Park for an impromptu outdoor ice rink. Just like at NYC’s Central Park, you can skate around under the winter sun. Fun for the young and young at heart, the ice rink will be open from 10am to 7pm July 7-15, with 45 minute skating sessions starting every hour. Tickets are $10.
Build a Bear at Erina Fair
Erina Fair has a few fun things on for kids of all ages. Make a song and dance about the holidays at the centre’s Shine Youth Talent Comp from July 4-14. It’s the best way for talented young Coasties aged 6-18 to shine and shake off the school semester plus all performers score a movie pass to Hoyts – cost $5 to register. The littles will love the chance to make their own bear at the centre’s ‘Teddy creation Station’ on July 3 and 4. For just $5, everyone takes home a handcrafted bear, a personalised birth certificate and can celebrate their fluffy masterpiece with a Teddy Bears Picnic.
Super shake at Warnies. Photo @thelittlesuitcase
Crazy shakes may have been overtaken by blue algae lattes in terms of the trend stakes but they will always be a winner with the kids. The super shakes at Warnies Cafe have become the stuff of legend and at Dime A Dozen, Umina, the kids will be buzzing with their jaw-dropping sweet, sugary shakes. A a spoonful of sugar is sure to make the break whizz by.
FlipOut at West Gosford
Perhaps the silliest fun to be had on the Central Coast these school holidays is at FlipOut. The bouncy world of trampolines at West Gosford has two Olympic trampolines and a wall runner for hours of fun for all ages. It’ll be the place to be on any rainy days and might help burn off a few calories and some extra energy from any holiday treats. Each session runs for half an hour and costs $10. The studio is open Tuesday to Sunday and under 10s are welcome.
Bella pancakes
Bella Natural Food Co has all the wholesome and healthy holiday treats you need, plus a few sweet treats. The Terrigal cafe is whipping up pancakes and ice-cream plus a ‘Dippy Egg’ special for kids’ brunches, or keep it clean and green with healthy salads, wraps, and vegan choices. For a fun snack, their Pikelet Stack pairs perfectly with a milkshake and the café is also taking on the all-time dessert classic – a banana split.
School holiday fun at Bombini. Photo: Bombini
Because every kid needs to learn how to eat (and cook) a slice of humble pie, Bombini is running a pie-making class these holidays. Head chef Cameron Cansdell will teach mini masterchefs the art of making the perfect pastry and how to create a tasty filling using the freshest, seasonal ingredients. From a savoury braised beef pie to a sweet rhubarb and strawberry dessert, kids can enjoy pie galore with some housemate gelato and then recreate it all at home for the whole family with a take-home recipe. There will be two classes on July 14 catering for kids aged from 5-12. Cost $70.
Peninsula Leisure Centre pool
Just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean the little ones can’t swim. It’s all about Splish Splash School Holidays at Peninsula Leisure Centre Woy Woy with slides and an inflatable obstacle course running daily. Life guards will be on deck to ensure the slippery fun is safe and sound. The indoor pool is heated for a splash or some laps. Kids cost Just $4.
Coastal Chic Tip: Book as fast as you can – it’s the school holidays and activities will sell out!
