The City of Casey’s Teen School Holiday Program is proving hugely popular with local parents and teens alike, helping young people to get out and make new friends in safe environments while enjoying activities like roller skating, animal experiences, cooking, sport and crafts. With low prices, flexible booking options and free, supervised transport, the activities are helpful to busy parents trying to juggle the demands of adulthood with those of their teenagers during the holidays.
City of Casey Mayor Cr Amanda Stapledon says that the program has become increasingly popular with parents who work during the school holidays, or who just enjoy seeing their children get out of the house to have fun.
“Parents tell us that the program ticks all the boxes: the young people make new friends, it’s inexpensive, safe and just plain fun for the kids,” she said.
“The events are chosen for the maximum fun factor. They do all kinds of exciting activities; for example, this spring, Council’s Youth Services officers will lead activities in roller skating at Skateworld, indoor rock climbing at Clip n’ Climb and feeding the baby animals at Myuna Farm,” she said.
To cater to those young people who make friends less easily than others, the Casey Youth Services Team provide a safe, respectful space where teens can get to know other children of a similar age.
“Because they spend time together each day, sharing fun experiences, there is a strong chance that they will come back raving about how lovely everyone was and the new friends they made,” she said.
“For any parent, this is always heart-warming to witness because, ultimately, we just want our kids to be happy.”
Casey teenager Ella Edwards has attended the program several times and especially enjoyed the various animal and wildlife experiences.
“Healesville sanctuary was amazing, getting to walk around and explore and see the different animals that they have, like the tree kangaroos,” she said.
“This spring, I’m looking forward to visiting Myuna Farm again, the baby goats were so cute.”
Ella’s brother Thomas said that he most enjoyed getting to meet new people.
“Each time we come we have made new friends. The staff are so kind and – seriously – don’t worry, you will make new friends,” he said.
Supervised transport is provided from several convenient pick-up and drop-off locations around the Casey area. Council officers will wait with all children until they have been safely handed over.
Bookings for the spring school holiday program are open now and until sold out or until Friday 27 September. Learn more and book tickets online – or call City of Casey customer support on (03) 9705 5200.