Celebrate with nature-based or online fun

THIS year’s Geelong Children’s Week starts on Saturday and families are encouraged to celebrate with a mixture of nature-based and online activities and entertainment.

Children’s Week provides children and their parents the opportunity to connect with community organisations in their local areas with Geelong’s Botanic Gardens one of many perfect places to explore.

The City of Greater Geelong program runs from Saturday, October 23 to Sunday, October 31, and activities range from virtual performances through to in-person events celebrating arts and culture activities.

This year’s program highlights include virtual shows with local children’s performers The Mik Maks, magician Dazzling Dan, and Granny Lee and her ukulele.

At-home activities, include art and craft kits from the National Wool Museum and the Grovedale Toy Library, and a Healthy at Home toolkit, with hints and tips for families to stay well during lockdowns.

Geelong Children’s Week activities also focus on Delama yerram baa kale-werango, which means to embrace with nature and outdoors in the language of Traditional Owners, the Wadawurrung People.

Families are encouraged to explore trail or take part in an array of nature-focused activities including the Nature Faces competition.

Children are invited to make a self-portrait ‘Nature Face’ from fallen leaves, branches and feathers they have collected while exploring their neighbourhoods and submit their artwork for the public to vote for their favourites.

Councillor Sarah Mansfield said the Geelong region was lucky to have many family-friendly nature walks, and Children’s Week was a perfect time to explore a new trail.

“Walking in nature is a fantastic way for children to learn about their surroundings, and it is exciting for kids to have their creativity on display in the ‘Nature Faces’ competition,” Cr Mansfield said.

“From performances by some of Geelong’s favourite children’s entertainers to outdoor events, including a hike in the You Yangs, Children’s Week 2021 provides an activity to appeal to every family.”

Find out how to get involved in the many free Children’s Week activities across the region at geelongaustralia.com.au/childrensweek.