School holidays are fast approaching, bringing with them a wonderful time for children to explore, play, and enjoy new experiences.
For parents of children with additional needs, finding inclusive and affordable activities can sometimes feel like a challenge. The good news is, there are more opportunities than ever to ensure every child can join in the fun.
All-abilities playgrounds and sensory-friendly sessions are perfect options for families looking for exciting, accessible, and budget-friendly outings.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to visit and activities to try these school holidays, ensuring every child gets to play, explore, and grow in an environment that’s welcoming to all.
All-Abilities Playgrounds (Northern Suburbs)
Bundoora All Abilities Playspace
Address: River Red Gum Ave, Bundoora VIC 3083
This fantastic, fully fenced play space offers plenty of fun elements for children of all abilities. From a large sandpit with a digger to a wooden maze, dual slides, swings with harnesses, and a water course, there’s something for everyone. The soft spongy areas and accessible paths make it easy to navigate, and there’s seating for a relaxing picnic after playtime.
Find out more about Bundoora All Abilities Playspace on this link: https://www.playgroundfinder.com/node/2006
Mill Park All Abilities Play Space and Splash Park
Address: 29W Morang Drive, Mill Park 3082
With multiple play areas catering to different age groups and abilities, this space includes everything from water and sensory play to a basketball court. The accessible facilities and picnic areas make it a great spot for families to spend a fun, active day together.
Diamond Creek Regional Playspace
Address: 28 Main Hurstbridge Road, Diamond Creek 3089
Set in a beautiful nature reserve, this play space offers a variety of accessible play areas, including flying foxes, nature play, and dedicated areas for different age groups. It’s the perfect place for children to engage in imaginative and active play in a natural environment.
Find out more: https://www.nillumbik.vic.gov.au/Explore/Parks-and-playgrounds/Diamond-Creek-Regional-Playspace
Eltham North Adventure Playground
Address: Wattletree Road, Eltham North 3095
This award-winning playground integrates all-abilities play under a large roof structure, providing plenty of space to climb, swing, and explore. It’s also conveniently located next to Edendale Farm, making it a great spot for a day out.
Find out more: https://www.nillumbik.vic.gov.au/Explore/Parks-and-playgrounds/Eltham-North-Adventure-Playground
Sensory Activities in Melbourne
Sensory Screenings at Hoyts Cinemas
Hoyts offers monthly sensory-friendly screenings with dimmed lights and softer sound, creating a safe and welcoming environment for neurodiverse children or sensory needs. It’s a wonderful way for the whole family to enjoy a day at the movies without the usual sensory overload.
Find out more: https://www.hoyts.com.au/events/sensory-screenings
Scienceworks – Low Sensory Sessions
On the first Saturday of each month, Scienceworks offers low-sensory sessions with muted sounds and dimmed lights, perfect for children with sensory sensitivities. Sensory bags and social stories are also available to help prepare for the visit. Weekday afternoons tend to be quieter, providing an ideal time for a calm and engaging museum experience.
Find out more:https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/plan-your-visit/accessibility/the-autism-friendly-museum/
Melbourne Museum – Low Sensory Sessions
Similar to Scienceworks, Melbourne Museum also offers low-sensory sessions on the first Saturday of each month. Melbourne Museum tends to be quieter between 3pm and 5pm on weekdays during term time.
The museum provides sensory bags and social stories, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience for neurodiverse children.
Find out more: https://museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum/plan-your-visit/accessibility/the-autism-friendly-museum/
The school holidays are a time for making memories, and every child deserves the chance to explore, play, and have fun. With so many inclusive and affordable options available, families can enjoy all-abilities playgrounds, sensory-friendly cinema screenings, and museum visits designed to cater to children with additional needs.
By choosing the right places to visit, you can ensure a holiday filled with joy, discovery, and inclusivity, creating lasting memories for your child.
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