Parents searching for ways to keep children entertained these winter school holidays need look no further, with Hawkesbury City Council unveiling a packed program of activities across Windsor's Library, Museum and Gallery.
From meeting native Australian animals to making candles, creating artwork and learning printmaking skills, the Winter School Holiday Program offers something for curious minds of all ages.
Council is encouraging families to book early, with places limited and several popular activities expected to fill quickly.
One of the headline attractions is the return of the Taronga Zoomobile, which will bring Australian native animals to Hawkesbury Central Library on Monday, July 6. Children aged five and over will have the opportunity to meet wildlife up close and learn about Australia's unique creatures from a Taronga Zoo educator.
Movie lovers are also catered for, with free family movie screenings scheduled for July 7 and July 14 at the Library. Children are invited to bring their own snacks and enjoy an afternoon at the movies, with the title remaining a surprise until closer to the event.
Young builders can test their creativity during the popular Everything is Awesome LEGO Club sessions on July 10 and July 17. Participants aged eight and over will tackle a range of LEGO challenges designed to stretch their imagination and problem-solving skills.
History comes alive at the Hawkesbury Regional Museum, where children can step back in time and discover how families once lived in historic Howe House.
The Life in the Past workshop on July 9 allows children to experience aspects of everyday life from another era, including making their own candle, creating an oatmeal soap bag and preparing traditional lemonade.
A week later, the museum's Nature Art workshop will combine creativity with culture as children explore the Aboriginal Teaching Garden, create a painted gumnut necklace and produce artwork inspired by the natural environment.
Meanwhile, the Hawkesbury Regional Gallery is offering hands-on creative workshops aimed at both children and teenagers.
Aspiring artists can learn the fundamentals of printmaking on July 8, carving their own stamps before printing a personalised tote bag to take home. Separate sessions are available for children and teens.
Nature will again provide inspiration on July 15 when younger children create colourful Botanical Suncatchers using flowers, leaves and other natural materials.
The program reflects the growing popularity of creative, educational and screen-free holiday activities that allow children to learn new skills while having fun.
With events spread across three cultural venues in Windsor, families can mix and match activities throughout the holiday period and explore some of the Hawkesbury's most valued community facilities.
Bookings are essential for all paid activities and can be made through the individual Eventbrite pages for the Library, Museum and Gallery.
hawkesburylibrary.eventbrite.com
hawkesburymuseum.eventbrite.com
hawkesburygallery.eventbrite.com
For many Hawkesbury families, the biggest challenge this winter may simply be deciding which activity to choose first.
