Celebrate Children's Week on the Mornington Peninsula
Late October is the perfect time to get outside with the family. Warmer days, fresh spring air and plenty of kid-friendly activities make the Mornington Peninsula a wonderful place to celebrate Children’s Week (18–26 October 2025).
This year’s program is full of free and low-cost activities across our libraries, parks and community hubs. From storytimes and scavenger hunts to craft, circus fun and art workshops, there’s something for every child to enjoy.
Here are some highlights to help plan your week, plus a few extra ideas for family days out right across the Peninsula.
Tip: Some sessions fill quickly so it’s best to book early.
Children’s Week Events
Stories, Songs and Simple Crafts
Pop into a local library, community hub or visitor centre for storytimes and creative fun throughout the week.
Roving Storytimes (for ages 3+)
- Exploring Plants with Little Sprouts (for ages 2+) at Rosebud Library on Tuesday 21 October from 11am-12pm. Think sensory play, a bit of song and dance and learning about how plants grow.
Story Dogs (for school-aged children who are shy readers) at Hastings Library. Starting during Children’s Week but extending beyond and throughout the school term, this program is to support less-confident readers in a non-judgemental, relaxed environment. How, you ask? With the help of a friendly dog, Mel! Children must be able to attend the five Monday sessions in October and November.
Steam Afternoons (for ages 7-12) is an after-school activity that will encourage curious minds to explore new things. Kids will learn about how magnetic forces work and try to complete a little challenge. This will take place on Thursday 23 October at 4 pm at all Hastings, Rosebud, Mornington and Somerville libraries.
On Saturday 18 and 25 October from 9am to 4:30pm, kids can join an amusing and educational activity to see what they can spot through the wildlife sanctuary. Grab a scavenger hunt sheet at the Visitor Centre and start the search.
A wonderful creative activity for preschoolers aged 3-5 at Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery. On Thursday 23 October from 10-11am, young ones will be guided by an artist educator to explore, experiment and express ideas surrounded by art. After the activity, stick around to wander through the rose garden, playground and duck pond.
On Thursday 23 October at 10am, potions, pumpkins, paint and playdough will take over Rosebud Memorial Hall for a Halloween-themed hour of fun! Little ones from the ages of 6 months to 6 years are welcome to play, build and create.
On Saturday 18th and Saturday 25th October, young creatives are invited to bring their drawings to life in a storybook in a session guided by local writers and book lovers. Sessions start at 10am and all materials are provided. Get in touch with the Mount Eliza Neighbourhood House to book your spot at info@mountelizanh.com.au.
An afternoon filled with fun, free activities and community connection! From 2:30-5:30pm on Thursday 23 October, families can enjoy barbecue treats, face painting, a petting zoo, crafts, games and more!
Back after five long months, this beloved family-friendly market returns this Saturday 18 October. From 9am to 2pm, come and get lost in the stalls of craft, design, vintage wares, music and food. An event that parents can enjoy just as much as the kids.
Family Fun Beyond Children’s Week
If you’re looking to keep the celebrations going, the Peninsula is packed with family attractions all year round:
Top Fun, Rosebud - mini golf, bowling, arcade
Dinosaur World, Somerville – finding fossils, mini golf and imaginative play
Children’s Week is a lovely reminder to pause, have fun and connect with the youngest members of our community. So pack a picnic, grab some sunscreen and explore what’s on — you’ll find smiles, stories and adventures waiting across the Mornington Peninsula.
For more information on things to do with kids, visit Explore the Mornington Peninsula or drop into the Mornington or Dromana Visitor Information Centres for local advice, free maps and the latest what’s on information.