11 Sensory Activities in Melbourne this Summer

Looking for some summer activities for the little ones? Read on for our list of 11 sensory activities to check out in Melbourne this summer.

Summer is upon us in Melbourne which means sunny days, kicking off the blankets, the odd thunderstorm and some great opportunities to get out and explore with the family.

Whether it’s indoors or outdoors – sunny or raining – there’s so much to do in summer to get the little ones moving and interacting with their environment. Moreover, the early years are essential for developing children’s creativity and sensory perception, so we’ve listed some fun activities around Melbourne to engage the little one’s senses this summer!

1. Museum of Play and Art (MoPA)

MoPA is an interactive learning experience for children of all ages. Accordingly, the museum has child-safe play spaces, rainbow tunnels, craft stations, cityscapes, confetti slides and an onsite café! Additionally, MoPA is Reggio Emilia inspired, referencing Loris Malaguzzi’s focus on ‘the importance of play and creativity in early learning.’

MoPA, located in Melbourne and Geelong, is open 9am-5pm seven days a week over the school holidays.

2. Scienceworks

Scienceworks is a science and technology museum designed to inspire and educate young minds. Although the museum is suitable for ages 5 and up, Scienceworks and Baby Sensory have teamed up this summer for an immersive experience for ages 0-13 months. These sessions, as part of their Little Kids Day In program, are filled with ‘gentle exercise, much-loved games, and end with a sensory filled celebration.’

3. Imaginaria

Imaginaria is a walk-through play experience for children of all ages. They can freely roam this interactive indoor display filled with soothing sounds and multi-dimensional light. Above all, Imaginaria is a shining example of how art and audio-visual play spaces encourage creativity and imagination in children. These skills are vital for success later in life.

4. Melbourne Museum

There’s always something happening at the Melbourne Museum. Their daily exhibitions feature all kinds of cool science and historical displays such as skeletons, fossils, artefacts and interactive displays.

Additionally, this summer the Melbourne Museum are showcasing the Pauline Gandel Children’s Gallery. This autism-friendly exhibition features ‘hands-on exploration and discovery, open-ended play-based learning, extraordinary immersive environments and unique museum collection objects.’

5. Monet & Friends at THE LUME

We love art at Explorers – especially impressionism. Therefore, our Little Impressionist program encourages children to explore the impressionist (and post-impressionist) styles of Monet and Van Gogh to express themselves through art and colour.

To see the power of this art for yourself, why not take your little one to the Monet & Friends exhibit at THE LUME? Overall, this exhibition of life, light and colour feels like you’re stepping inside one of his famous paintings!

6. LEGOLAND 

LEGO is a fantastic way to improve children’s fine and gross motor skills, hand-eye coordination, problem-solving and teamwork. Moreover, LEGO has psychological benefits, as children imagine, plan and build intricate creations.

Lastly, LEGOLAND’s enclosed spaces and interactive environments are suitable for children aged 3 – 10, just remember to always supervise younger children to prevent choking hazards.

7. SEA LIFE Melbourne

Summer is the perfect time to visit SEA LIFE Melbourne to enjoy the interactive Pirate Treasure Hunt. This journey takes you around the aquarium, seeing and learning all about the ocean, its creatures and the delicate ecosystem which binds it all together.

Moreover, a trip to the aquarium is a wonderful way to teach children the importance of sustainability and preserving the natural world.

8. Jurassic Park High Tea

Is your child going through a dinosaur phase? Langham Melbourne are hosting a one-of-a-kind, Jurassic Park themed high tea for the little ones. You’ll find Dinosaur Trifle, Jungle Nasturtium Ham and Cheese Sandwiches, Black Rock Arancini and so much more!

Dietary alternatives are available, but the most spellbinding part of the experience is the atmosphere and attention-to-detail. For instance, you’ll find dry ice mist, leaves, toy dinosaurs and earthy tones, making this a truly immersive prehistoric experience.

9. Pixar Putt

Toy Story, Monsters Inc, Soul, Luca and The Incredibles. Are any of these movies playing on repeat in your household? If so, this Pixar-themed golf course is a must-visit this summer! With a range of terrains and environments, the whole family can enjoy a day of mini-golf featuring your favourite Pixar characters.

Pixar Putt is located in Frankston, with a choice of either 9 or 18 holes. Just remember that this family-friendly outing is only available until February 5, so get in while you can!

10. Hire a Boat

What’s more Melbournian taking a cruise down the Yarra River? The sound of the water, the gentle sway of the boat and seeing the city from a completely different point-of-view is the perfect summer activity!

GoBoat, and other businesses like ON A BOAT and Melbourne Boat Hire, allow you to hire and drive your very own boat for the day (no boating licence required)! These trips are pet-friendly and suitable for newborns, so you can bring the whole family on this nautical adventure.

11. Christmas Festival

No list of immersive summer activities would be complete without Christmas! Each year the City of Melbourne hosts the annual month-long Christmas Festival. Naturally, the city goes all out and the CBD comes to life with the festive spirit.

Alternatively, you can always take your little ones to see the Christmas lights around your local neighbourhood! Above all, there’s nothing like a summer evening walk with the family, taking in the lights, the sound of cicadas and the starry night.

🍃 To tour one of our beautiful Centres, please click here. Otherwise, check out our website to register your interest at Explorers Early Learning today!