School holiday ideas for Dad

Holiday time can be a rare bonding time for many fathers and their children. So which school holiday activities can help dads to get the most out of those few precious weeks?

“I like taking the kids somewhere I know I’m going to enjoy myself,” says Leigh McInneny, Buderim father of two. For example, “I love going to the beach. We swim and boogie board together.

“The key is doing things that keep everybody entertained. I like planning an exciting ‘event’ like a trip to Australia Zoo or a big tourist attraction. We get to look forward to it for a few days beforehand. Those day trips are really memorable for all of us.”

Every Dad is different! The key is adapting your own passions and hobbies into a child-friendly activity. When you’re having fun, it’s a lot easier to keep the kids’ excitement levels up.

Sporty Dads

Do you have a passion for sport and outdoor activities? That keeps things nice and simple. Ten-pin bowling, one-on-one basketball at the local park, kick-to-kick in the back yard, hiring a tennis court for an hour... Or for something different you could try indoor rock climbing and learn the ropes together.

If you are a golfing fanatic, how about practising your skills at the local mini golf centre or driving range with the kids? For dads who used to be skaters back in the day, why not pull out the old board and take your kids to the local skate ramp with their scooters? Or you can throw on your rollerblades and head to a rollerskating rink… guaranteed to fill you with nostalgia while giving your kid a great day out.

Muso Dads

Age-appropriate music concerts can work well if your child has the right temperament. But if sitting still isn’t an option, drumming lessons are a great outlet for youthful energy!

Having a jam session at home can entertain everyone for hours. Pull out your guitar and get your child to accompany you on a tambourine, triangle or bongos.

Arty Dads

A day at the art gallery or an art workshop can be a great way to share your artistic bent with your kids.

Do an internet search to see if there is a botanic gardens near your home with a ‘sculpture’ section. These can be a very relaxing place to explore together.

You can also create your own art workshop at home! Most kids’ eyes will light up when you produce a bunch of ceramic Easter eggs or foam Christmas tree baubles that need decorating. You can get art and craft supplies at stores like Spotlight, or your local $2 shop.

Lazy options

A day at the movies is an old favourite for dads who need some time out while they’re in charge of the kids.

If you need your morning coffee – grab a colouring book and some leggo and head to your favourite café together. This can be a fun outing and a great chance to chat and get to know more about each other.

If your child definitely won’t sit still in a café – you can get your caffeine fix at your nearest indoor play centre while junior jumps amongst the pool of plastic balls.