I’ve had my fair share of lucky moments. Like the time I scored last-minute tickets to Wicked the Musical (the kids had been begging to see it)—and their faces when the lights went down? Worth every bit of scrambling to make it happen.
But after years of helping parents and carers to keep the kids entertained (and entertaining my own crew), I’ve learned you need more than luck to keep family life running happily.
Here are two things I’ve discovered that help way more than luck:
Have a go-to list of activities ready. Whether it's play centres, outdoor parks, or local events, knowing where to go in advance can save a lot of stress when everyone's restless. Our October What's On guide is packed with ideas to keep on hand for exactly these moments.
Embrace imperfect outings. Not every plan goes smoothly, and that’s okay! Some of the best memories are made when things go a little off-script. And if things go wrong...at least you'll have a great story!
Have you had a lucky parenting moment lately? Or a tip that makes your life easier when things get overwhelming? Hit reply and share it with me!
Velveteen Rabbit at Glen Eira Town Hall (Friday 10 Oct) A playful, musical reimagining of the classic tale with projections and audience participation – don't forget to bring your favourite toy along. Caulfield
Moorabbin Junction After Dark (Friday 10 Oct) Two cosy street parties celebrating local businesses with lights, music, art, food and family fun as the neighbourhood glows after dark. Moorabbin
PAX Australia 2025 (Friday 10 Oct - Sunday 12 Oct) Three days of gaming heaven with demos, tournaments, panels and indie studios – a paradise for kids and teens who live and breathe video games. South Wharf
Princess Mononoke (Saturday 11 Oct) Studio Ghibli's stunning warrior-meets-nature tale returns to the big screen in gorgeous 4K, perfect for families ready to experience animation magic together. Melbourne CBD
The Creativerse: A Festival of Art, Tech & Play (Saturday 11 Oct) Interactive installations, live performances and hands-on workshops transform Bendigo into a creative playground for curious kids aged 3-12 and beyond. Bendigo
The Great Pet Together (Sunday 12 Oct) A pet-friendly celebration with community dog walks, paw-traits, costume competitions and a pup-cup eating contest for your four-legged family members. Frankston
DinoFest at Werribee Park Mansion (Saturday 11 Oct - Sunday 12 Oct) Over 30 life-size dinosaurs including walking Triceratops roam the mansion grounds with interactive shows, dino digs and fossil fun – book fast before tickets disappear. Werribee South
Space Pirates (Daily until Saturday 11 Oct) Last chance to blast off with this intergalactic puppet adventure packed with pirate rock songs, cosmic silliness and heartfelt themes for kids 5-12. Albert Park
Greater Dandenong Children's Festival (Daily until Saturday 11 Oct) Final days to explore this cultural journey Around the World with music, dance, workshops and traditions celebrating community diversity for kids 0-12. Dandenong
Yo-Chi Funhouse (Daily until Sunday 12 Oct) Last chance to catch daily surprises, Chi Pong, limited-edition swirls and a bow-tied Chi-E-O bringing carnival vibes to these school holidays. Carlton + other locations around Melbourne
Unleash creativity with Squiggle Kids at our Treehouse Retreat drawing zone! Find us inside Melbourne Museum’s Romp & Stomp event for Children's Week (Saturday 25 October) and pre-register to win great prizes.
Geelong Gallery's latest blockbuster exhibition features this year's Archibald Prize finalists. Artist Beci Orpin designed the children's Learn Space too. Worth a road trip!
Australia's first-ever Formula 1 Exhibition is celebrating the sport's past, present and future. Experience hands-on fun that'll impress the whole family.
This beloved theatre production is back for another Melbourne season, and we can't recommend it enough. Kids and adults alike will be delighted and enthralled!
Part trampoline arena, part multi-level playcentre – this entertainment destination handles all ages and activity levels. P.S. There are electric go-karts too!
We're proud to be recognised for helping half a million families every year discover the best of Melbourne and Victoria with kids. With the help of the Small Business Mentoring Service, Tot is growing to serve families better!