Fun Things To Do With the Kids in the Sutherland Shire These School Holidays

Sep 4
4 min read

School holidays are here again! If you’re wondering how to keep the kids busy without hearing “I’m bored” every five minutes, I’ve got you covered. Here are some great local ideas — a mix of creative workshops, sporty fun, and easy day trips — to help you fill the days and keep everyone happy.

Ascendance Academy

If your kids are into dancing and performing, check out the K-Pop Dance Workshop at Ascendance Academy. It’s high-energy, fun, and perfect for kids who want to learn some cool moves, meet new friends, and just have a good time.

👉 More info: Ascendance Academy

Felicity Jaitken – October 2025 School Holiday Programme

For little creatives, Felicity Jaitken’s studio is running a 3-day programme (1–3 October, 9.30am–3.00pm, $65pp). The kids can try painting, clay, candle making, bath fizz creations and more — a lovely way for them to spend a day getting messy and making things.

👉 Book here: Felicity Jaitken – School Holiday Programme

Sutherland Shire Singing – School Holiday Workshops

If your kids love to sing, act, or just perform, Sutherland Shire Singing runs really popular holiday workshops in Cronulla and Jannali. Options include Sing, Triple Threat, Sing & Act, Preschool and Teens workshops. They’re so well-loved they’ve even been listed in the Top 25 most popular school holiday activities in the Shire.

👉 More info: Sutherland Shire Singing

Hazelhurst Regional Gallery & Arts Centre

Hazelhurst is such a gem — their kids’ art workshops are always a hit. Plus, the gardens are lovely for a little wander, and the café does a good coffee for you while the kids get creative.

👉 Check what’s on: Hazelhurst Arts Centre

Sutherland Shire Libraries – School Holiday Activities

The local libraries have some surprisingly fun (and free or cheap) options. Think craft sessions, robotics, NAIDOC art, and even STEM-based storytimes like “Full STEAM Ahead.” A great one to keep in your back pocket for rainy days.

👉 See the program: Sutherland Shire Libraries

Motiv8sports – School Holiday Multi-Sport Camps

Got kids with lots of energy? Motiv8sports runs two-day sports camps (8:30 am – 3:30 pm) with a mix of games and activities. They treat every child like a superstar, so it’s welcoming no matter their skill level.

👉 More info: Motiv8sports Sutherland Shire

Inspire Creative Arts – School Holiday Programs

Inspire Creative Arts has some really fun options in Caringbah — no membership needed.

FunDays with dance, craft, sports, and even movies.
Musical Theatre Experience where kids put on a show in just a couple of days.
Plus special guest workshops to mix things up.

👉 More info: Inspire Creative Arts

Get Outdoors

Sometimes the best days are the simple ones. Pack some snacks and explore:

Towra Point Nature Reserve (Kurnell): Birdlife, mangroves, and a quiet walk.
Joseph Banks Native Plants Reserve (Kareela): Free entry, BBQs, and plenty of space to run around.
Cronulla Sand Dunes: For kids who love a climb and a slide down!

Beach Days

From Wanda to North Cronulla, the beaches are always a winner. Swim, surf, explore the rock pools, or just grab some hot chips and enjoy the salty air.

Chill Evening Idea: Catch a Movie at Event Cinemas Miranda

When the day’s activities wrap up, head to Event Cinemas in Miranda for a relaxed evening. With comfy seats, plenty of popcorn, and films for all ages, it’s an easy way to wind down.

Family-friendly picks showing these holidays include:

The Fantastic Four: First Steps (PG)
Freakier Friday (PG)
Smurfs (PG)
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (M — great for older kids)

👉 See times & tickets: Event Cinemas Miranda

Quick Picks for Easy Fun

Need something simple and reliable? Here are some extra favourites:

Flip Out Caringbah – Trampolines and ninja courses.
Zone Bowling & Timezone Sutherland – Bowling, arcades, and laser tag.
Symbio Wildlife Park (Helensburgh) – Animals and a splash park.
Sutherland & Caringbah Leisure Centres – Pools and inflatables.
Cronulla & Shire Markets – A wander, a treat, and some live music.

After the Workshop: Easy Add-Ons

Most holiday programs run from around 9–3pm, which is perfect for a full day of fun (and gives you some breathing room too!). If you’ve still got energy to burn after pickup, here are a few easy add-ons:

Grab hot chips and head down to Cronulla Beach for a play in the sand.
Stop by the local markets for a treat and a wander.
Let the kids bounce it out at Flip Out Caringbah.
Or keep it calm with a quick stop at the library for books and quiet time.

Tips to Make It Easy

Book early: The workshops sell out fast.
Mix it up: Balance creative, sporty, and chill days.
Check details: Times and dates change each holiday.
Pack smart: Hats, sunscreen, water, and snacks always save the day.

So there you go — plenty of ways to keep the kids busy, happy, and maybe even a little tired at the end of the day (win!). From K-Pop dancing and painting to sports, beaches, and a family movie night, the Shire really does have it all.