As the weather turns cooler and the school term winds down, many parents across Australia face a familiar challenge: how to keep their kids engaged, active, and happy during the winter break.
From cosy indoor crafts to exhilarating outdoor adventures, there’s something for every family to enjoy—no matter the budget! With a little creativity and forward planning, winter can be just as enjoyable and rewarding as the summer months.
In this guide, we’ve gathered some of the best winter holiday activities for kids, including practical tips for a stress-free break and reasons why winter holiday camps might be just the ticket for your children this season.
How to choose the right winter activity
Before jumping straight into the fun, it’s important to think about what winter school holiday activities will best suit your child and your family’s needs. Remember, a little planning can go a long way in turning the school break from a chaotic, boredom-filled experience into a smooth, enjoyable one.
Here are some key considerations:
1. Child’s age and interests
This is the most crucial starting point. What might be perfect for a 5-year-old could bore a 12-year-old, and vice versa. Younger children (ages 4–7) often enjoy creative play such as arts and crafts to stimulate their imagination while developing fine motor skills. On the other hand, older kids (ages 8–12) might prefer more opportunities for social interaction and delving deeper into a specific interest, like climbing or drama, building confidence, collaboration, and problem-solving skills along the way.
Tip: Ask your child what they’d like to do and notice which activities they naturally gravitate towards in their free time. Then, offer a few options based on those interests to choose from.
2. Location and accessibility
Plan how far you’ll need to travel for an activity. If a program is too far from home or difficult to access via public transport, it might become more of a hassle than it’s worth. Look for options close to home, such as community centres, libraries, and sports clubs—these often run affordable school holiday programs.
If you’re planning different activities each day, keeping them nearby helps avoid long daily commutes. But if your child is attending a week-long winter holiday camp or similar, it can be a little further away since you’re not travelling back and forth every day.
Tip: To help keep things flexible, look for options that fit your family’s schedule, whether that’s a single-day activity or a full week away. At PGL, we offer both day camps and overnight stays, so you can choose what works best for you.
3. Weather conditions
While mild compared to many countries, winter in Australia can still bring rainy days and chilly mornings. An early morning bushwalk might sound great, but not if the temperature is barely above freezing and your child hates the cold. Always have a balance of indoor and outdoor options.
Tip: Dress your child for the weather with layers, a warm jacket, waterproof shoes, and a hat. Pack extras like gloves, a spare outfit, and a thermos with a warm drink to keep them cosy and comfortable all day.
4. Set a budget
Winter holiday activities can add up quickly, so it’s essential to factor in your budget from the outset. Options can range from free or low-cost experiences like local community events featuring live entertainment, food stalls, and games, to visits to the park or nature reserves. On the flip side, ticketed attractions such as theme parks or science museums often come with higher costs. You’ll also need to factor in food costs, which can add up if you’re out and about with your kids.
Tip: Look out for family passes or early bird discounts to save money. Booking activities in advance can help you secure better prices and stick to your budget.
5. Prioritise supervision and safety
Your child’s safety is non-negotiable. For group winter holiday activities, ask about staff-to-child ratios, first aid support, and whether staff are qualified and background-checked. Also consider your child’s individual needs, such as allergies (e.g., nuts or dairy), medical conditions (e.g., asthma or diabetes), or anxiety, and check if organisers can accommodate them.
Tip: Carefully review the terms and conditions, especially those regarding cancellations, refunds, and safety protocols. Don’t hesitate to call the provider directly with any concerns or questions.
6. Be flexible and allow for downtime
Finally, don’t feel the need to fill every minute with organised activities. It’s important to block out time for rest and relaxation too, especially during the cooler months. Leaving some gaps allows for impromptu playtime. Flexibility is also key, as unexpected changes or weather might mean rescheduling plans or switching to indoor options at the last minute.
Tip: Keep a few backup indoor activities on hand, like a movie or board games, so you can be prepared for sudden changes without stress.
10 Winter school holiday activities for kids
Winter can sometimes mean more time indoors, but it also offers unique opportunities to try new things and learn new skills! Here are ten fantastic winter holiday activities for kids.
1. Winter-themed arts and crafts
Get creative indoors with winter-themed arts and crafts! Cutting, glueing, and drawing are great ways for kids to strengthen fine motor skills, refine hand-eye coordination, and build independence. This activity also encourages self-expression, giving kids the freedom to explore through colours, textures, and design.
How to make a snowflake garland
What you’ll need:
- White or coloured paper
- Scissors
- String, thread, or thin yarn
- Glue or tape
- Hole punch
- Pencil (for drawing cutting guidelines)
Steps:
- Fold a square piece of paper in half diagonally to form a triangle.
- Fold again to make a smaller triangle.
- Cut small shapes into the edges (carefully) to create a snowflake pattern.
- Open it up to reveal your snowflake!
- Repeat and string them together with thread to make a garland.
2. Baking
Baking is a fun, hands-on indoor winter activity that the whole family can enjoy together. It teaches kids the basics of following instructions, measuring, and mixing, which supports early maths and science skills such as counting and understanding chemical reactions. It also provides them with a sense of achievement when they see (and taste) the final product.
How to bake cookies
What you’ll need:
- 225 grams of butter
- 200 grams of sugar
- 250 grams plain flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: chocolate chips, sprinkles
Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced).
- In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and gradually mix in the plain flour until a dough forms.
- Roll the dough into small balls (about 2.5 cm in diameter) and place them on a baking tray lined with baking paper. Flatten each ball slightly with your hand or a fork.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before eating.
3. Movie marathon
A movie marathon is a chance to relax, unwind, and enjoy a rainy winter day. Watching stories unfold on screen can also improve comprehension, empathy, and emotional development, as kids relate to characters, explore different perspectives, and learn about problem-solving through narrative. Plus, it gives you an excuse to wear your favourite pyjamas all day!
How to do a fun film day
What you’ll need:
- Streaming service/DVDs
- Blankets, pillows, bean bags
- Popcorn and snacks
- Optional: movie tickets or themed printables for fun
Steps:
- Choose a mix of 2–3 age-appropriate movies.
- Set up a comfy lounge with blankets and cushions. Close the curtains, dim the lights, and even build a pillow fort for a cinema-like vibe.
- Make popcorn or a snack mix like pretzels, marshmallows, cereal, and chocolate chips.
- Press play and enjoy!
4. Puzzles & board games
Classic puzzles and board games are timeless indoor winter holiday activities that challenge the brain and bring the whole family together. These build resilience as children learn to work through problems or try again after setbacks. Socially, they offer valuable lessons in turn-taking, fair play, and handling both wins and losses.
How to set up a puzzle or board game
What you’ll need:
- Age-appropriate jigsaw puzzles
- Board games like Uno, Monopoly, Guess Who?, or Scrabble
Steps:
- Choose a game or puzzle that matches your child’s age and interest.
- Set up a quiet, flat surface like a table or mat to keep everything contained.
- If it’s new, go through the rules together and do a quick practice round.
- Play solo or in teams, and encourage taking turns, teamwork, and trying their best.
- Celebrate wins, effort, and good sportsmanship to keep the experience fun and positive.
5. Obstacle course
Turn your living room into an obstacle course! It’s a brilliant way to keep kids active when it’s too cold or rainy to head outside. Jumping, crawling, balancing, and coordination help develop gross motor skills, improve spatial awareness, and build physical confidence. Best of all, it’s adaptable to all ages and spaces!
How to create an indoor obstacle course
What you’ll need:
- Pillows, blankets, chairs
- Hula hoops, cones, and masking tape
- Timer or stopwatch
Steps:
- Set up a series of stations (e.g., crawl under a table, hop over cushions, balance on a tape line).
- Explain the course and rules to your child.
- Time each round or add challenges like “do it backwards” or “carry a teddy.”
- Let kids take turns creating their own course!
6. Bushwalking trails
Bushwalking is a peaceful yet invigorating activity that gets kids moving while spending time in nature. Walking through local trails or national parks nurtures an appreciation for the environment and teaches kids about local flora and fauna. This activity has also been shown to reduce stress and boost mental wellbeing, especially during winter when kids may feel more cooped up indoors.
How to organise a bushwalk
What you’ll need:
- Comfortable walking shoes like trainers or hiking boots with good grip
- Water bottle and snacks (e.g., fruit slices, muesli bars, sandwiches, crackers)
- Weather-appropriate clothing (e.g., layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, hat, gloves)
- Map or app (if in a national park)
Steps:
- Choose a family-friendly trail. Check your local council or national park website for suggestions and updates.
- Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a basic first aid kit, and a phone or map. Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers for changing weather.
- Set off on a nature walk, stopping to explore wildlife, plants, or viewpoints.
- Encourage kids to spot animals or take photos along the way.
7. Ice skating
Ice skating is one of the best winter school holiday activities for kids. While it can be challenging at first, learning to skate helps children develop resilience and perseverance as they try, fall, and try again. Moreover, each glide and turn improves balance, coordination, and flexibility. When done with friends or siblings, it creates opportunities for bonding, shared laughter, and memories!
How to ice skate
What you’ll need:
- Entry ticket to an ice rink
- Warm clothes (e.g., thermals, leggings, a waterproof jacket), gloves, scarves
- Helmet for younger children (optional)
- Skate hire (usually available onsite)
Steps:
- Arrive early to get fitted for skates. Make sure they are snug but not too tight, and wear thick socks to prevent blisters.
- Start slowly. Hold the side rails and encourage kids to take small steps, then gradually shift to gentle glides.
- Once they feel more confident, try fun challenges like skating in a circle or doing a slow race.
- Take regular breaks and warm up with hot chocolate afterwards!
8. Museums & art galleries
Whether it’s exploring dinosaurs, space, Indigenous art, or historical artefacts, these venues offer interactive exhibits and learning tailored to kids of all ages. Visiting a museum or gallery encourages kids to ask questions, observe closely, and think critically. It can inspire new interests and open their eyes to different cultures, perspectives, and art forms.
How to plan a visit to a museum or art gallery
What you’ll need:
- Entry fee (check for family discounts or free entry days)
- Notebook for sketching or taking notes
- Water and snacks (e.g., fruit slices, muesli bars, or crackers)
Steps:
- Look for museums or galleries that offer hands-on exhibits or workshops. The Queensland Museum has dedicated children’s spaces or activities.
- Look online for current exhibitions and school holiday events. Book tickets early, especially during busy winter breaks.
- Dress in layers and bring a water bottle and light snacks (if allowed). Know where the nearest café or rest area is for breaks.
- Focus on 1–2 exhibits and encourage your children to ask questions, sketch, or take photos (if permitted) to make the visit more interactive.
9. Winter festivals
Winter festivals are vibrant, family-friendly events filled with music, fireworks, rides, and food that bring communities together! For example, the Winter Harvest Festival in Kalbar, Queensland, celebrates local produce with markets, cooking demos, and food tastings.
How to organise a winter festival outing
What you’ll need:
- Warm clothes, hats and gloves
- Spending money on treats or rides
- Camera or phone for photos
Steps:
- Pick a winter festival that suits your family’s interests and check dates, location, ticket prices, and any age restrictions on the official website.
- Arrange transport (car, train, or bus) and book accommodation early if needed. Factor in travel time, parking, and whether the festival has shuttle services.
- Bring warm clothes in layers, sturdy shoes, hats, gloves, and rain gear just in case. Don’t forget water bottles, snacks, and any tickets or passes.
- Look at the festival program and plan must-see shows or activities, but stay flexible to follow your kids’ energy and interests.
10. Holiday adventure camps
Adventure camps are packed with action and offer children a unique opportunity to grow socially, emotionally, and physically. In just a few days, kids can try new things like Flying fox, archery, or bushcraft, all while building confidence and making loads of new friends in a safe and supportive environment! For parents, holiday camps also provide practical benefits, giving them time to work, run errands, or recharge.
How to prepare for a school holiday camp
What you’ll need:
- Warm clothes (e.g., thermals, jumpers, waterproof jacket, gloves)
- Comfortable, weather-appropriate footwear.
- Toiletries (e.g., toothbrush, toothpaste, hand cream, lip balm)
- Reusable water bottle
- Extras: Torch, medication (if needed, with clear instructions).
Steps:
- Choose a reputable provider and look for a camp with good reviews, staff qualifications, and safety procedures.
- Pack according to the camp’s checklist. Pack extra socks and warm clothes just in case, and contact the provider if you are unsure. View our packing guide here.
- Check if they allow quick check-ins or provide updates for peace of mind for longer camps.
Give your child an unforgettable PGL winter holiday camp experience!
Ready to give your kids a winter break they’ll never forget? Our winter holiday camps, based in Kindilan, are designed to inspire, entertain and educate kids aged 8-14.
With an exciting range of adventurous activities, qualified staff, three nutritious meals per day (plus morning / afternoon tea and supper!), and comfortable cabin-style accommodation, these camps are the perfect solution for families looking for high-quality winter school holiday activities.
Book today and make this winter one to remember. Spots fill quickly, so don’t miss out!
For more information, visit our website or contact our friendly PGL team to see how we can help.
