We help families to have fun + make happy memories

Hi there Reader You know the Scandinavians have a saying - ‘there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.’ Now that we’re in the depths of Melbourne’s winter, I need your help settling a serious debate—what's better: indoor play or outdoor adventures (even in winter). Personally, I love both for different reasons, but I want to hear what YOU think! What's better—indoor or outdoor adventures? Indoors 🏠 Outdoors 🌳 Joyce xx P.S. Speaking of winter adventures - while our Tot Reader...

Dragons, Music + Magic Bring your little Vikings on the adventure of a lifetime this August with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra as they perform a live to picture score of How to Train Your Dragon. Watch Hiccup and Toothless soar across the big screen while the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra brings John Powell’s Academy Award®-nominated score to life right before your eyes. It's a magical cinema experience where every roar, every flight, and every heartwarming moment gets the full orchestra...

Hi there Reader It's Amy here (Tot's Content Manager), popping into your inbox while Joyce is off adventuring with her crew for the school holidays! We’ve just come back from two amazing family holidays – one to Darwin and one to Bali (yep, we loved it so much we went back again!). I know travelling with little ones isn’t always picture-perfect... here’s a snapshot: my 2-year-old mid-meltdown, lying flat-out on the floor of a 5-star resort foyer in Bali. Not exactly the relaxing moment I had...

Hi there Reader Remember when I asked you last week about your go-to winter holiday survival strategy? Well, you didn't disappoint! Here are some of my favourites: 💬 "Shopping centre playground rotation - Chadstone Monday, Eastland Tuesday... I have a spreadsheet. Don't judge me." - Michelle, Doncaster 💬 "Baking disasters are my secret weapon. Sure, my kitchen looks like a bomb went off, but they're occupied for ages and we get something edible (usually) at the end." - Kate, Hawthorn 💬 "I've...

Hi Reader I was chatting with another parent at school pickup yesterday, and she mentioned feeling like winter activities are always a bit... meh. Jam-packed indoor places, complaining about the weather, rinse and repeat. But honestly? I think this week proves them completely wrong. Between creative workshops, a kids glow disco, and one seriously cool outdoor escape room experience, Melbourne is going off right now. And the best part? It's all happening this weekend. Joyce xx P.S. Our 2025...

Hey Reader The winter break is almost here! I know keeping the kids busy can feel like a full-time job, so I’ve done the legwork for you. From dedicated school holiday programs to epic light festivals and free events around town, this round-up is packed with fun ideas to keep the whole family entertained (and your sanity intact). Oh, and if you're feeling extra adventurous, I've also pulled together some amazing getaway ideas: 28 best spots for family glamping in Victoria and Melbourne A...

Hey Reader Confession: I've been spending way too much time looking at travel photos lately. There's something about school holidays approaching that makes me want to book flights to everywhere from London to Tokyo. But here's the thing about family travel—sometimes the best trips happen when you're not overthinking them. Whether you're considering the Harry Potter studios, dreaming of Disney magic in Tokyo, or looking for that perfect Bali family retreat, the key is finding experiences that...

Fast 5 Top Picks #1 What's On - CBD Winter Night Market (Wednesdays until 27 Aug) An enchanting evening market featuring street food, artisan stalls and Christmas in July celebrations perfect for families. Melbourne ACMI Preschoolers (Every third Friday of the month) Free play-based sessions where 2-5 year olds can create animations and explore digital art. Melbourne Lightscape (Wednesdays - Sundays from Friday 20 Jun - Sunday 10 Aug) This award-winning immersive light experience is...

Hey Reader “Children don’t need perfect parents—they need present ones.” This quote really stuck with me lately. With the winter holidays almost in full swing, the pressure to make every moment Pinterest-perfect can feel overwhelming. But here’s the truth: it’s the small, meaningful moments that count most. I’m sharing this because I know how easy it is to feel like you’re not doing enough. But trust me—you’re doing great. Whether it’s a spontaneous beach trip, a cosy movie night, or a picnic...