Maroondah Council’s Vacation Care program, while it may look a little different this time around, will continue to deliver children with experiences and activities that are the right mixture of fun, adventure and learning.

The program, which is available for children in Prep to Grade 6, will run from Monday June 29 to Friday July 10, between 8am and 6pm (except for weekends).

“We’ve taken measures to minimise risks surrounding COVID-19 and replaced incursions and excursions with in-house activities,” said a Council spokesman.

“In addition, the winter program will operate from one location at Springfield Pavilion, Springfield Ave, Croydon, which means there will be a limited number of places available.

To secure your child’s place, parents are advised to book before the closing date of Wednesday (June 10).

Cor Samantha Mazzuchelli said Council’s Vacation Care program was a high-quality, flexible and child-focused program that aimed to support busy working parents during the school holidays.

“It’s been a particularly challenging time for many children and their families with normal routines disrupted and parents having to balance home schooling, family commitments and work as best they can as a result of COVID-19 restrictions,” Cr Mazzuchelli said.

“The decision to keep our holiday program running during this term break means that working families can book their child for one day or all 10 days of the program, which provides them with that important flexibility,” she said.

“We want to reassure our families that all will be done to protect children in our care, as well as our staff, as we continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and follow government requirements and health advice,” Cr Mazzuchelli said.

“Children will experience a different and exciting new adventure each visit with daily fun-filled activities that will take place on-site, all supervised by Council’s qualified and experienced Vacation Care educators.

“These holidays sees the celebration of all things winter with plenty of fun and games, including the chance to win cool prizes, and it’ll be ready, set, go with a fun day learning how to build and then race your own billy cart in the Billy Cart Bonanza.

“We will also be bringing a lot of laughs with magic tricks, cool experiments, and a chance for the kids to share their best jokes! There will also be lots of games and heaps of prizes.

In the spirit of adventure, children will get to create their own country – from naming their country to designing their own national flag.

“From learning how to tie-dye, designing and flying your own kite, and enjoying a day of all things sport as you come dressed in your favourite team’s colours, there will be plenty to see and do, and so much more!

For a full program of events, or for more information, see the Vacation Care program page at the Maroondah Council website or contact Council’s Children’s Services team on 1300 88 22 33.