Has back-to-school been a whirlwind for you? No time to think about some fun stuff for your kids to do? Try out these local Northern Beaches kid’s activities now that they’re settled into the school routine.

Dance

Bluebird Studio offers ballet and jazz dance classes for bubs as young as 1.5 to 6 years old. There are ‘Parent and Me’ classes each day, and classes timetabled for pre-schoolers and primary school age kids. Based in Queenscliff, Bluebird Studios offer fun and creative classes, using props to keep pre-schoolers engaged, and with a focus on self-confidence and creativity for primary school dancers.

Dance North Academy offers classes in all dance styles for pre and primary aged kids. Mums and Bubs dance classes (Dads and carers welcome too) are for 2.5-3.5 yr olds, ballet from 3yrs, Jazz from 5yrs, plus Kids Combo, a jazz and ballet class for 3-5 yr olds so they can try both styles of dance. Tap and Hip Hop start at 6yrs old, and Musical Theatre at 7. DNA is known for modern dance and offer recreational classes from 5yrs, and performance classes starting at 6 and under, and have studios in North Manly and Narraweena.

Music

Minikin Music have themed music classes for babies and toddlers at St Matthew’s Church on Manly Corso, with children’s musical instruments to play. Parents love that you can pay as you go. Also have a look at Selah Music in Fairlight, and CSide Kids in Collaroy, both popular choices with parents.

Art

Head to The Pop Art Studio in Manly for kid’s after school art classes for 5-10 year olds. The studio always focus on trying to use recycled or biodegradable materials where possible, and incorporate environmentally friendly, non-toxic practices. If your kids happen to go to Manly Village or St Mary’s primary schools, they also offer a pick-up service, and fruit and biscuit afternoon tea is offered. Definitely a parent’s dream set up!

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

New to Manly is Manly BJJ and Brazillian Jiu Jitsu. Catering for kids 3 – 17 (and adults), the experienced instructors aim to encourage their growth, self-esteem, and develop essential life skills. It’s easy to book a free trial class online, and if trying Jiu Jitsu is an idea you’ve been throwing around, give it a go too! They encourage families to train together.

 Swimming

There are swim lessons at pools all over the Northern Beaches – we’re spoilt for choice, though as a popular activity, it’s sometimes hard to get your child in on a day/time that suits you so persevere. Manly Boy Charlton Pool, Harbord Diggers and Fitness First at Dee Why are popular choices.

Free activities

Our local Northern Beaches Council libraries offer fun, free literacy sessions for parents and pre-schoolers. Baby Bounce is for up to 12 months of age, learning songs and rhymes in a group that you can use at home with bub to help develop early literacy skills. Rhyme Time is for toddlers and older, and Story Time is for kids aged 3 to school age. They all encourage early literacy skills through stories, songs and rhymes. Check out the various times and locations at your local libraries.