Things To Do With Kids After School & Before Bed-Time

By: Phoebe Ackland, 08 November 2016

By: Phoebe Ackland, ellaslist

There’s plenty of hours between school pick-up and bedtime, so why not make the most of them? Whether it’s a one-off treat or a new routine or tradition you’re hoping to establish in your family schedule, try one of these ideas for awesome things to do after-school and in the evenings with kids.

1. Walk The Dog

If you’ve got one, this is a lovely after-school activity to give your little ones (and your furry friend) the fresh air and exercise they’re craving. Why not let kids and canines splash around at a dog-friendly beach? There are some nice ones all over Sydney including an off-leash zone at Silver Beach Kurnell, Glebe’s Bicentennial Park with access to Blackwattle Bay, Sirius Cove in Mosman, or skip the water and enjoy the expansive Centennial Parklands or Parramatta Lake Reserve. You’ll be sure to explore new parts of your neighbourhood and spend some quality family-time together with this one, whether it’s straight after-school or closer to sunset.

dog beach

2. Fish And Chips At The Beach

Make this one a Summer after-school tradition! This Aussie past time is popular for a reason. We’re spoilt for awesome beaches and fish joints in Sydney, so we’ll share just a few of our favourites with you: a swim at Bondi beach followed by Fish Mongers, eating Chish and Fips at Coogee on the grassy area, Seafood Works in San Souci, Sydney Fish Markets overlooking the harbour, Danny’s Seafood in La Perouse- the list goes on. If you’re not by the beach, don’t let it stop you enjoying chips soggy with vinegar and salty fish straight from the sea. Chidlren will not be able to wait until school finishes for this one.

fish and chips

3. Family Stroll For Ice-Cream After Dinner

Nothing beats treating yourself and the kids after dinner with a walk and ice-cream stop on a balmy evening. Plus- it’s a great incentive to get your kids to eat their dinner. You might have a local haunt within walking distance which will do the trick, but if not, here are some ideas: You can’t beat Gelato Messina’s decadent combinations with locations in Bondi, Parramatta, Rosebery, Surry Hills, Darlinghurst, Miranda & more, or check out the liquid nitrogen theatrics at N2 Gelato in Chinatown and Newtown. This one is pretty easy on the wallet, and a lovely tradition to establish for a good old family night.

family ice cream

4. Kid Friendly Eats

Tried and trusted. After school time calls for a babycino, milkshake or another cafe delight. But eating out with kids isn’t always enjoyable- that’s why we compiled a list of Sydney’s most kid-friendly cafes and restaurants, where families are welcomed with open arms. Some of our favourites include the Queens Park Shed for the perfect cafe and playground combo, Avalon on the Beach if you fancy a dip after a beverage, and Grandma’s at McEvoy in Alexandria for real home-style cooking and a colourful menu. If you think your kids won’t be satisfied for long sitting at a dining table, check out our favourite cafes with a play area or cafes near playgrounds so you can whisk children off when need be.

family eating

5. Pram-Friendly Walks

If you have young ones with loads of energy- try a stroller-friendly walk! Did you know- we have some awesome ones in Sydney including the Iron Cove Bay Walk in the inner west, the Centennial Parklands lap, the Narrabeen Lagoon Bush Trail, and the Manly to Shelly Beach seaside walk. Our top pick? In summertime, it’s definitely the iconic Tamarama to Bondi coastal walk. Currently, Sculptures by the Sea is on so kids can have a play on heaps of fun and interactive exhibits. It can get a bit crowded, so we created a Scupltures & Pram survival guide- enjoy!

family walk

6. Pack A Picnic

Pack a picnic and watch the afternoon spill into evening! Kids will love all their favourite treats in one place, plenty of green space to run aroud, and the quality bonding time (why not bring the dog and some wine, too!). We recommend heading to our favourite hidden garden- the magical Wendy Whiteley’s secret garden. Breathe in fresh flowers and watch the sun go down. We also love the Royal Botanic Gardens, Centennial Parklands & Oatley Park. To make it easy, we made a guide on how to make a perfect children’s picnic.

family picnic