As another long holiday break draws to a close, parents are readying themselves for the school year ahead. Schedules, logistics and activities, the juggle for preschool and school parents can be overwhelming.

Did you know there are a host of services and facilities managed by Council that can help keep your small – and medium sized people – busy, engaged and healthy?

Check out this handy list of things to do and support for your family:

Libraries

From online learning resources and quiet study rooms to pre-school story times, after-school STEM workshops, crafternoons and cultural events, our 6 libraries and 4 community libraries offer more than just books to borrow.

Find out more on our website or sign up to the Library newsletter to stay in touch with what’s happening in a library near you.

Health and Wellness

Head to Manly Andrew ‘Boy’ Charlton and Warringah Aquatic Centres for after school swim or splash play areas. Both also offer weekly swim lessons, carnival preparations clinics and school holiday programs. At Warringah you can enrol the kids in Learn to Dive lessons. Active teens can visit MABC’s fitness centre and improve their fitness in dedicated teen group classes.

Courses and activities

From drama and musical theatre classes, karate and dance tuition, and craft, art and creative courses and workshops, our 38 community centres host groups and activities for all interests and ages.

Get social

After a venue for a class get together? With scores of beautiful beaches and parks and reserves across the area – many with shaded areas and outdoor BBQs – there are plenty of options for parents to gather and kids to go wild. And don’t forget our array of community centres, offering affordable all-weather options for gatherings and parties.

On your bike!

Will your tween or teen travel to and from school this year on a bike or e bike? Take advantage of greener transport options through shared paths, check out tips for bike safety and learn about Australia’s first e-bike code and other resources aimed at keeping young riders and the community safe.

Childcare

You can access safe, stimulating and interactive learning environments for children through Council’s much-loved community pre-schools in Manly and Balgowlah and award-winning long-day-care centres at Belrose, Brookvale, Dee Why, Fairlight, Narrabeen and Seaforth. If you prefer a home-based personalised programs then Family Day Care might be or you. Occasional Care Service at Brookvale Children's Centre is perfect for families needing a little care here and there. 

Sports

For sporty families, our various sportsfields, tennis courts, basketball hoops, netball courts, golf courses, skate parks abound with facilities, clubs and opportunities help keep everyone active. Or build your own workout at our outdoor exercise areas. Use our interactive map to discover facilities near you. 

Nature lovers

Drop by the Coastal Environment Centre on Narrabeen Lake, the perfect stop for curious minds eager to connect with nature. Book in for a community workshops or walks, or sign-up for ocean-inspired school holiday programs. Or build your own adventures across our parks and trails. 

Creative kids

Manly Art Gallery and Museum and Mona Vale and Curl Curl creative spaces hold workshops and events perfect for kids and families. Sign up to the Creative News newsletter to hear about the events, exhibitions, workshops and performances for children and young people. Or use the online search resource Culture Map Live to help find lessons, performances and tuition near you.

Have a voice

Local tweens and teens can have a voice and get involved in the local community, through Keep A Look Out For (KALOF). From band nights to school engagement, youth forums, film comps and youth-friendly spaces, KALOF is about supporting and empowering young people.

Holiday care

Take the pain out of school holidays with our dedicated Vacation Care program at Manly Vale, Cromer and Balgowlah. Kids can meet new friends and stay busy, creative and active with in-centre activities and big-ticket excursions.

Adolescent Services

If your family or young person is struggling with relationships, mental health, sexual identity, addictions or other issues, don’t go it alone. From workshops and seminars to individual and group counselling support and referral services, this list of resources may offer new ideas and support.

Good luck this term. (And remember, the Easter holidays are only ten weeks away).