Fun and Exciting Children’s Programs at Bendigo Art Gallery, The Capital and Bendigo Libraries

With the new school year underway, three of Bendigo’s most popular destinations have re-launched their suite of free and low cost children’s programs. Storytimes, Gallery Giggles and Cushion Concerts all translate to lots of fun activities in reading, music and art for local children.

Bendigo Libraries have commenced their daily story and rhyme time sessions, with a variety of activities aimed at specific age groups. Sessions include Rhyme Time for babies under one year, Toddler Time for 1-3 year olds and Storytime for children 3-5 years of age.

The program involves stories and songs aimed at nurturing children’s listening, language and literacy skills. Sessions start at 10.30am and are on each weekday at Bendigo Library; Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays at Kangaroo Flat Library; and Tuesdays at Eaglehawk Library. See www.ncgrl.vic.gov.au for more information on Goldfields Libraries children’s activities.  

The Capital is running a series of children’s “Cushion Concerts” throughout the year with a mixture of local and guest performers. Cushion Concerts are a chance for young children to come and experience a live performance in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Children are encouraged to bring a cushion (or The Capital have some of their own), their favourite teddy and a snack. If a child needs to move around to get a better view, wants to dance or stretch out on the floor, that’s all quite alright! If a child has a question or wants to tell someone something they've noticed about the performance, that’s even better.

The 40 minute concerts take place once a month at The Capital starting at 10.30am, with the next concert on Wednesday 2 March.  Days vary throughout the year so check online at www.gotix.com.au for performance dates. Tickets are $5 per child with one accompanying adult and additional adults are $5 each.

Bendigo Art Gallery is enthusiastic about art for visitors of all ages, and the popular Gallery Giggles program has been a favourite for families since it was introduced in 2012. Parents and little ones are invited to come along for a 30 minute session of stories, songs and a taste of art for children aged up to 5 years.

Mums, dads and carers do need to stay and enjoy the fun! The sessions are free and held at 10.30am on the first Thursday of every month during the school term. Dates remaining for this semester are 3 March, 5 May and 2 June. Bookings are essential and can be made by phoning Bendigo Art Gallery on 5434 6088.

Parents are encouraged to take advantage of these fun and enriching local programs for their pre-schoolers and make them part of their family routine.