School holidays are meant to be a time of fun, relaxation, and connection for families. But for those with children who have disabilities or specific accessibility needs, the reality can sometimes feel more like a search for suitable options than a carefree break.
We understand that finding activities where everyone can truly participate and enjoy themselves is important. That's why, at Like Family, where we believe in the power of inclusion and support, we've put together this guide.
It's packed with 15 ideas to help you fill these school holidays with happy memories of shared experiences for the whole family.
15 accessible school holiday activity ideas
1. Accessible playgrounds:
Look for playgrounds designed with ramps, plus sensory elements like textured surfaces and musical features, and inclusive swings that allow for different levels of support. Many councils are investing in these accessible, inclusive spaces, often signposted with accessibility information.
2. Sensory gardens & nature walks:
Explore botanical gardens or nature reserves with accessible paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Focus on engaging different senses through touch (soft leaves, smooth bark), smell (fragrant flowers, herbs), and sight (bright colours, interesting textures).
3. Adapted sports & recreation outdoors:
Many local organisations offer adapted outdoor sports like wheelchair basketball, inclusive cycling with adapted bikes, or accessible kayaking on calm waterways with supportive equipment.
4. Picnics in accessible parks:
Pack a lunch and enjoy it in a park with accessible picnic tables and pathways that make it easy to navigate the space. Look for parks with accessible restrooms too. National Parks around the country offer accessibility information on their website, making it easier to plan.
5. Water play:
If accessible, swimming pools with ramps or zero-entry access provide a safe and fun way to cool down if the weather is still warm. Alternatively, explore water play in the backyard with sprinklers, water tables, or even large containers of water with floating toys.
6. Accessible farms & animal encounters:
Some farms offer accessible pathways around enclosures and opportunities for gentle interaction with animals in an outdoor setting, such as petting zoos with accessible entry or feeding sessions.
7. Gardening activities:
Even simple outdoor gardening tasks can be engaging and therapeutic during school holidays. Try planting seeds in raised garden beds (for easier access), watering plants with adapted tools, or exploring different soil textures with your kids.
8. Accessible beaches & waterways:
Explore beaches with accessible pathways leading to the sand, beach wheelchairs available for hire, or calm waterways suitable for adapted paddling in canoes or kayaks with assistance.
9. Sound scavenger hunts in nature:
Engage in a sound scavenger hunt with your kids in a local park. Listen for different natural sounds like birdsong, rustling leaves, or flowing water. This can be adapted with visual aids or sound boards.
10. Accessible bushwalking trails:
Look for well-maintained bushwalking trails that are graded and accessible for wheelchairs or those with mobility challenges, often signposted with accessibility ratings. Here are some of our favourite accessible bushwalks in NSW and Victoria.
11. Visiting outdoor markets:
Many markets have accessible pathways between stalls and offer various outdoor sights, sounds, and smells, making for a stimulating sensory experience.
12. Train or ferry rides with scenic views:
Public transport can be an adventure! Choose routes with accessible stations and enjoy the outdoor scenery passing by from the comfort of a train or ferry.
13. Accessible camping or glamping:
Imagine starry nights and the sounds of nature – accessible campsites and glamping options are making outdoor escapes a reality for everyone. Look for sites with features like step-free access to cabins or tents, accessible amenities, and sometimes even adapted activities like accessible campfires or nature walks.
14. Museums with accessibility features:
Many museums offer accessible entrances, ramps, elevators to navigate different floors, sensory rooms for quiet breaks, and audio descriptions or tactile exhibits to enhance engagement for children with additional needs. Look ahead to see if they offer visual aids to help prepare your kids as well.
15. Don’t forget indoor activities:
Don't underestimate the joy of accessible indoor activities. From creative pursuits like adapted arts and crafts to engaging with tactile games and puzzles, exploring books in various formats, or enjoying sensory play, there's a wealth of fun to be had within the comfort of home.
Tips for Planning Accessible Activities
- Plan Ahead: Research accessibility features (ramps, accessible toilets, sensory rooms) before visiting a venue.
- Call Ahead: Confirm accessibility details and ask any specific questions.
- Consider Sensory Needs: Be mindful of noise levels, lighting, and crowds. Pack sensory aids if required.
- Be Flexible: Have backup plans in case an activity doesn't work out as expected.
- Involve Your Child: Ask for their input and preferences.
- Focus on Fun: The most important thing is to create enjoyable experiences for everyone.
Let Like Family help you these school holidays
Looking for extra support to make these school holidays even more enjoyable? Like Family connects families with experienced support workers who can assist with accessible activities, providing companionship and personalised care. Find a Like Family support worker to help you today.