School holidays are not far away now, and if your first thought is “cool… now what do we do with them for two weeks?”, you’re not alone. The familiar juggle is happening all across the Central Coast – how to keep the kids entertained, get them out of the house and still keep things relatively low-cost.
The autumn school holiday period is meant to be about slowing down and spending time together, but as many of us know all too well, the reality is usually a mix of “what are we doing today?” and trying to stay one step ahead of the boredom.
So we’ve pulled together a bunch of easy, local ideas to help you fill the days, keep everyone happy, and make the most of the school holidays on the Central Coast.
April school holiday activity ideas
Looking for things to do these April school holidays on the Central Coast? We’ve rounded up a mix of kids activities, family-friendly events and easy day out ideas happening across the region to make the most of the break (without overcomplicating it). Whether you’re planning ahead or figuring it out as you go, there’s plenty here to help you get through the school hols with your sanity intact.
Motiv8 Sports
Tried and tested, kid-approved and always a crowd-pleaser, we can go on and on! But when it comes to outdoor and active camps, you actually can’t go past Motiv8 Sports. They are a well-oiled machine, from their thorough communication to arriving and checking your kid in, right through to the activities and the staff. All this leaves parents with the peace of mind that kiddos are going to be safe and have a brilliant day, and you can actually reclaim a day of work.
This camp is for those kids who’re keen to have a fun-filled day with their mates. This camp is also for those whose mates are away and are looking to join like-minded kids and make new friends. This camp is for those with energy to burn these holidays! Motiv8 Sports will turn school holidays into high-energy, confidence-building, feel-good fun where teamwork and the positive environment help each child feel like a winner.
Epic “mega sessions” and “super camps” combine team sports, music and street culture to create an experience that’s all about getting kids moving, making mates and thriving.
This April school hols Motiv8 are hosting Super Camps across the Coast. So you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to dates and locations.
Take your pick from the below:
- Lakes Grammar (7–8 April)
- Central Coast Grammar (9–10 April)
- Brisbane Water Secondary College (13–14 April)
There’s also a one day Soccer Camp on Thursday, April 16th at EDSAAC Oval in Bateau Bay for all those up-and-coming Messi’s and Ronaldo’s out there keen to sharpen their skills.
Super Camps are priced at $125 for the 2 day camp or just $75 with your Active and Creative Kids Voucher. Whilst the one day Football Fanatics camp is only $65 or $15 with your Active and Creative Kids Voucher.
If you’ve been wondering what all the Motiv8 hype is about, well now you know. But word of warning, spots tend to fill fast, so it’s worth jumping online to secure your place now. And one last word of warning (take it from us), expect the kids to be begging to go back next hols. Boom! You’re welcome. The perfect way to keep boredom at bay, no matter which school holidays you’re trying to conquer.
Book here now: www.motiv8sports.com.au/locations/central-coast/
NumberWorks’nWords Erina
If you’re keen to keep the kiddos’ minds ticking over these school holidays (BUT, of course, without it feeling like school and being way more fun), then NumberWorks’nWords in Erina is where it’s at.
They have designed their April Holiday Program that has taken into account the shorter Term One (genius!), which means that it helps children to consolidate what they’ve learned in Term One and put it into practice, all while helping to build their confidence.
The best part? NumberWorks’nWords’ two-hour session is actually tailored to your child’s individual needs. Families can choose to focus on maths, English or a combination of both. Noting that if you choose a subject your child has not yet been assessed for, the team will even arrange an assessment prior to the first holiday session in order to cater for their needs. And, with a personalised learning plan, it ensures that every student gets the most out of their time and sets your child up for a strong term ahead.
They are running two-hour sessions across four mornings from Tuesday 14th to Friday 17th April. While attending all four sessions is recommended for the best results, there’s flexibility to pick and choose, too, depending on your own individual availability, so you can book selected days if needed. Now, if, like us, you’ve been meaning to get your kids’ holiday plans sorted (where do the days go??), then let this be your sign. Book now! There are limited spots available, and it is a first-in-best-dressed situation.
With the rave reviews from students and parents racking up for NumberWorks’nWords, Erina since their launch earlier this year in January, we just know that this school holiday program is one that will be both productive and engaging. If it’s a little extra revision your little one might need, or they are gearing up for mid-year assessments, or they are just super eager to learn and have fun while doing it with other like-minded kids (and in a supportive, low-pressure environment), these sessions will tick all of those boxes and more.
Call (02) 4329 4371 to book or jump online: https://numberworksnwords.com/au/our-locations/australia/erina
Learn more about how NumberWorks’nWords Erina is building kids’ confidence
Scholastic Children’s Book SUPER SALE
Wednesday 8 – Friday 10 April
For something a little different, but no less fun, these hols, gather the kids (especially the avid little bookworms of the lot) and get over to the Scholastic Children’s Book Super Sale. For three days during the April school holidays, the Scholastic Warehouse in Lisarow will turn into a mega book sale!
It’s the usual children’s book sale that Coasties know and love, but on steroids! In fact, it’s not just a book sale, it’s more like an epic kids’ day out. They’ve thought of everything to deliver a brilliant experience for both the children and the accompanying adults. You can expect face painting, a petting zoo (Thursday only) and guest appearances from some of your kids’ favourite characters alongside performer-led story time. There’ll be a free lucky dip, the odd Dog Man tattoo to be collected, plus did we mention a quiet colouring space for those needing a little downtime? Which doubles as a space where the kids can chill and read some of their new books while the parents catch up on an email or call.
The sale will be packed with thousands of brand new children’s books, many up to 50% off RRP. And, Scholastic’s range has a bit of everything, from colourful picture books and early readers to page-turning graphic novels and, of course, beloved activity packs and books.
With stock being replenished throughout the day, your little one is bound to find something they love, not to mention something new, too. The sale is the perfect chance to stock up for the year, with the “fill a box for $49” deal, a HEAP of $2 titles AND (yes, it does get better) a free gift with purchase to sweeten the deal. Win-win we say!
Running from Wednesday, April 8th, through to Friday, April 10th, from 8am – 5pm each day at the Lisarow Scholastic Warehouse. Which is located at Gate 3, Building 2, 76–80 Railway Crescent, Lisarow.
See more info here: https://www.scholastic.com.au/warehouse-sale-events/nsw/
And don’t forget to bring an extra bag (or two).
Aquafun Avoca Lake
Sun’s out, kids are restless – you know the drill. It’s time to head to Aquafun Avoca Lake. An easy, feel-good way to get them off screens and out in the fresh air (and wear them out in the process).
Set right on the lake, it’s all about simple, wholesome fun on the water. Fun fact: Aquafun Avoca Lake is home to Australia’s largest selection of modern human-powered pedalboats, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards, with options for all ages and abilities. It’s active without feeling like hard work, and a nice way to sneak in a bit of family time that doesn’t involve negotiating over devices. Pack the hats, maybe a spare change of clothes (you’ll thank yourself later), and enjoy a few hours in the water with the kiddos.
The lagoon itself is calm, enclosed and perfect for exploring, with surrounding wetlands home to birds, frogs and other local wildlife you’ll all enjoy spotting as you paddle or pedal around. Back on shore you’ve got shady fig trees, picnic spots and a sandy swimming area, so you can slow things right down for a bit – shoes off, snacks out, kids running free, – nobody rushing off to the next thing.
Over the Easter long weekend, they’re adding a fun twist with their Easter Egg Hunt on the Lake, running daily at 11am and 1pm from Good Friday through to Easter Monday. It’s $10 to join in, or free with a 60-minute hire.
Aquafun Avoca Lake is open daily, 10am–5pm throughout the April school holidays. Visit https://aquafun.net.au to find out more.
Central Coast School Holiday Fun
Ploddy’s Easter Fair at the Australian Reptile Park
Friday 3 – Sunday 19 April
The Australian Reptile Park is giving you even more reasons to visit these school holidays, with the return of Ploddy’s Easter Fair – packed with hands-on fun that’ll easily fill a full day (and then some). From cuddling baby animals and free face painting to the daily croc feeding show with Elvis (always a crowd favourite), there’s plenty going on – and it’s all included with your park entry.
There’s also a golden egg hunt with a $500 prize up for grabs, egg and spoon races, keeper talks, and a giant inflatable obstacle course for kids to burn off that endless holiday energy. If you time it over the Easter long weekend, keep an eye out for the Easter Croc roaming the park handing out eggs. Fresh air, heaps to do and you know the kids’ll sleep well that night.
Tuff Nutterz at Glenworth Valley
Friday 3 – Tuesday 7 April | 9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm
If climbing, jumping and running are on your kids’ wishlist, Tuff Nutterz is about to be the highlight of their school holidays. Australia’s biggest inflatable obstacle course (we’re talking 300 metres of it) is taking over Glenworth Valley, along with extra inflatable games for even more chaos – in a good way.
With sessions running throughout the day and no age limits, it’s one of those rare activities where everyone can get involved. Expect big energy, a few wipeouts, and kids who are very ready for a quiet arvo afterwards.
Fit Kids School Holiday Aerial Workshop at G-Force Pole and Aerials, West Gosford
Wednesday 8 April & Wednesday 15 April
Let the kids flip, fly and get creative at G-Force Pole and Aerials these school holidays, with fun-filled aerial workshops held at their West Gosford Studio.
From hoops and tumbling to crafts and games, it’s the perfect mix of movement and creativity to keep them entertained. And for only $50 per child, a bargain too.
Ponies & Paints Easter Fun Day, Wyee
Monday 6 April
Mini unicorns, Easter crafts, glitter tattoos and games – a wholesome kinda chaos coming together for a sweet little holiday session. Kids can snap photos with the unicorns, get stuck into a scavenger hunt and head home with a gift bag and a few glittery additions. With small session sizes, it’s a nice option for younger kids who love a bit of magic without the overwhelm.
Parkour Clinics at Gosford Gymnastics, Holgate
Tuesdays 7 & 14 April
A no-brainer if your kids are constantly climbing the furniture anyway. Gosford Gymnastics is running school holiday parkour clinics designed to help kids build confidence, coordination and strength in a safe, structured environment. With beginner and intermediate sessions available, it’s a great way to channel all that energy into something a bit more… intentional. Spots are limited.
Pop-Up Putt Putt at The Davo
Wednesday 8 April, 11am – 3pm
It’s an easy school hols win with The Davo turning into a pop-up mini golf course for a day! The fun indoor 9-hole setup will keep the kids entertained (and quietly competitive). With unlimited rounds during their session, kids don’t have to rush through or line up again. It’s all indoors too, which means no stressing about the weather (or trying to come up with a backup plan last minute).
At $10 per child (including a soft drink), it’s a pretty sweet deal for a few solid hours of entertainment. Parents get in free, so you can hang back, grab a coffee and let them go for hole-in-one glory.
Roundabout Circus School Holiday Program, Gosford
Tuesday 7 – Thursday 16 April
If you’ve got kids who love to climb, flip or just try something a bit different, Roundabout Circus is a fun one to mix into the holiday plans. Their school holiday program runs a stack of sessions for all ages – from beginner-friendly circus camps and family classes to aerials, acro and even teen-level workshops for those ready to step it up. Prices start from $20, with options for half days, full days or casual drop-ins.
Free Kids Disco at The Entrance Leagues Club
Thursday 9 April, from 5pm
A midweek kids disco? Sounds good to us. With plenty of music, dancing and good vibes, it runs until around 6:30pm, which lines up nicely with dinner after (no cooking, no complaints).
Paws and Claws: The Musical at The Art House Wyong
Friday 10 – Tuesday 14 April
A good story with a bit of drama, Paws and Claws is a playful, high-energy musical that brings cats and dogs together in a light-hearted take on classic rivalries, packed with catchy songs and plenty of laughs. Performed by a talented cast of local young performers, it’s got that wholesome, feel-good vibe that makes for an easy family outing.
Origami Kids – Folding Art & Sound at Gosford Regional Gallery
Friday 10 April, 5-9pm
Honestly, this is one not to be missed. Origami Kids transforms the Edogawa Japanese Gardens into a glowing, after-dark playground filled with light installations, live music, roaming performers and interactive experiences.
Part art show, part mini festival, part kids rave, it’s designed as a full twilight experience where families can wander, dance, explore and just take it all in. Expect everything from moonlight discos and bubble-filled pathways to fish feeding, circus performers and hands-on creative moments. It’s a bit magical, and the kids will be talking about well after the holidays wrap up.
Junior Ranger: Wyrrabalong Coastal Adventure Tour
Saturday 11 April, 2:30pm
If you’ve got little nature lovers in the house, this one’s a nice change of pace. Kids aged 5–15 can step into the role of a junior ranger for the day, joining a guided coastal walk from Crackneck Lookout with an NPWS Discovery Ranger. It’s an easy, scenic 2-hour walk with plenty to spot along the way – dolphins, seals, seabirds and all the little things hiding along the rock platforms. With a mix of wildlife spotting, nature games and hands-on activities, it’s a great way to get them outdoors (binoculars highly recommended).
Outdoor Cinema Night at Wyong Golf Club – Shrek
Saturday 11 April, 7:30pm
Pack the picnic rug and settle in for a movie night under the stars, with Shrek lighting up the green at Wyong Golf Club. Kids are glued to the screen, there’s popcorn within reach, and you get to enjoy a night out without overthinking it. Just don’t forget a jumper for when it cools down.
Family Fun Day at Terrigal Beach House
Sunday 12 April
Ocean views and happy kids – not a bad combo! Terrigal Beach House is putting on a relaxed family day with live music from midday and a stack of kids’ activities from 1–4pm, including face painting, balloon twisting and airbrush tattoos. Add in a free drink and ice cream with every kids’ meal to really seal the deal. See more & book a table at terrigalbh.com.au
School Holiday Family Fun Day at Woy Woy Hotel
Sunday 12 April, from 11am
Keep the kids happy with a petting zoo, face painting, live music and a cruisy, family-friendly vibe, plus kids eat free with every main meal. It’s the kind of day where everyone wins!
KPOP Kids Dance Party at Everglades Country Club
Thursday 16 April, 5:30pm
If your house has been taken over by KPOP playlists, this one’s a must. Everglades is hosting a full-blown kids dance party where little superfans can learn moves, hit the “stage” and soak up all the glitter, glow sticks and high-energy fun. There’s a selfie station, prizes for best dressed and even a mystery guest, so expect big excitement levels (and very tired kids by bedtime).
Trinket the Robot at Laycock Street Community Theatre
Thursday 16 & Friday 17 April
A little bit quirky, a little bit heartfelt – Trinket the Robot will stick with you. This interactive puppet performance follows a curious robot learning what it means to feel, with plenty of humour, audience involvement and gentle moments that help kids make sense of big emotions. It’s engaging without being overwhelming, and ties in nicely with our next mention…
Recycled Robots Workshop
Wednesday 15 & Friday 17 April
Got a kid who loves building, crafting or turning random bits into “masterpieces”? This one’s right up their alley. The Recycled Robots Workshop invites kids to create their own robot character using everyday materials – bottle tops, cardboard rolls and whatever else you’ve got floating around at home.
It’s hands-on, creative and is a fun add-on to the Trinket the Robot show if you’re heading along (but just as brilliant on its own), with kids taking their creations home to display proudly.
Last Minute School Holiday Ideas on the Central Coast NSW
School Holiday Programs at Code Camp
Code Camp is back this autumn school holidays with its signature school holiday camps. Taking place at Central Coast Adventist, their holiday programs are designed for children aged 5–13, and inspire creativity, innovation, and most of all fun! Find out more over at their website.
voco Gosford – Stay 3 Nights & Kids Eat Free
If you’re thinking about a little staycay these school holidays, voco Gosford has a handy offer for families. Stay three nights and kids 12 & under eat free from the kids’ menu (one meal per child, per day), which takes a bit of the sting out of holiday dining. Perfect if you want a relaxed break without the driving (or flying) stress, and still feel like you’ve snuck in a cheeky getaway. Click here to book.
School Holiday Activities at The Ary Toukley
The Ary is ticking all the boxes with a mix of creative, hands-on and high-energy fun across the holidays. Kids can get stuck into plaster painting (8 April), where they can slow things down and paint something to take home, or jump into the always-popular reptile show with Kym the Reptile Man (14 April), which is equal parts fascinating and a bit “did that just move?!”.
To wrap things up, there’s a kids disco on 16 April with games, dancing and face painting, perfect for those kids who still have energy left somehow. Pick what suits, or go all in and do the lot.
School Holidays at Gosford RSL
If you like having options (and backup options), Gosford RSL has a full line-up to dip in and out of these holidays. There’s the Mini Kindy Farm on 4 April – ducklings and rabbits and piglets, oh my – or the hands-on Plush Paradise workshop (10 April), where little makers build their own cuddly toy from start to finish. They’re also bringing in a free 9-hole indoor putt putt course (14 April), a family kids movie trivia night (12 April), plus kids bingo on 17 April for the kids who love to shout BINGO! School hols, sorted.
Glenworth Valley Adventures for the April School Holidays
Looking to fill a full day (or a couple of them)? Glenworth Valley has stepped things up in April 2026 with dedicated school holiday camps alongside their usual adventure activities – so there’s plenty here to keep kids busy, outdoors and off screens.
Their Adventure Max Camps (ages 7–16) are the big energy option, with kids swapping devices for horse riding or quad biking, laser skirmish and either kayaking or abseiling. They’ll come home dusty, a bit tired, and full of stories. For younger kids, the Valley Adventurers Camp (ages 5–12) offers bushwalks, scavenger hunts, damper-making over the fire, shelter building and meeting the farm animals (hello Highland cows!) – a nice mix of hands-on fun and outdoor exploring.
If you’re sticking around, keep an eye out for the running of the horses, a can’t-look-away moment you simply HAVE to experience. Add in an on-site kiosk for easy refuels (and Wi-Fi), and you’ve got a choose-your-own-adventure kind of day that works for all ages.
Free and Easy School Holiday Activities on the Central Coast
That should keep you well and truly covered for the April school hols — whether you’re locking in a few structured activities or just winging it day by day (no judgement, we’re right there with you).
If you’re still filling gaps, it’s always worth checking what’s on at Gosford Regional Gallery and your local Central Coast library too. They have a solid line-up of workshops and activities that are easy wins.
And for those in-between days when you just need to get out of the house, check out The Best Kid Friendly Beaches on the Central Coast, or grab the bikes and try these Family-Friendly Bike Paths on the Central Coast, or keep it simple with our Five Free Ways to Entertain the Kids for a bit of inspo.
Whatever you end up doing, here’s your reminder to keep it simple and soak up a bit of that slower holiday pace (before the term kicks off again).
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