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Best School Holiday Programs Melbourne 2026 — Camps, Classes & Activities
Best School Holiday Programs Melbourne 2026 — Camps, Classes & Activities
Melbourne offers some of Australia's best structured school holiday programs for children of every age. From art workshops at the NGV to wildlife encounters at Melbourne Zoo, coding camps in the inner city, multi-sport programs run by local councils, and performing arts intensives across the suburbs — this guide covers the best school holiday programs in Melbourne for 2026, with dates, costs, and booking advice for every break.
By VicBuzz Team | Last updated March 2026
Table of Contents
2026 Victorian School Holiday Dates
Before you start booking, here are the exact school holiday dates for Victoria in 2026:
Each break has a different character for holiday programs. The Term 1 autumn break often coincides with Easter, making it a popular time for camps and workshops. Winter holidays suit indoor programs like art, coding, and cooking. Spring holidays are ideal for outdoor sports and wildlife programs. The long summer break is when the widest range of programs runs, including multi-week options.
For a broader look at things to do across the state during every break, see our pillar guide to school holiday activities across Victoria.
Art Programs and Creative Workshops
Melbourne's art scene translates directly into exceptional holiday art programs for children. Whether your child is drawn to painting, sculpture, digital art, or mixed media, there is a structured program to match.
NGV Kids Holiday Programs
The National Gallery of Victoria runs dedicated kids' programs during every school holiday period across both venues — NGV International on St Kilda Road and NGV Australia at Federation Square. Programs typically include guided gallery tours designed for children, hands-on art-making workshops responding to current exhibitions, and drop-in creative stations.
NGV Kids workshops are among the best-regarded children's art programs in Melbourne. Sessions are usually 1 to 2 hours, cost between $15 and $30 per child, and suit ages 5 to 12. Bookings open on the NGV website approximately 3 weeks before each break and popular sessions fill within days.
Melbourne Arts Centre Kids Programs
Arts Centre Melbourne runs creative workshops during school holidays that span visual arts, craft, and design. Programs often tie into current performances or exhibitions at the centre. Sessions run across multiple days and are suited to children aged 6 to 14.
Community Art Centres
Melbourne's network of community art centres runs structured holiday workshops at accessible price points. Centres worth checking include:
Community art centre programs typically cost $20 to $60 per session and have smaller class sizes than larger institutional programs.
Sports Programs and Active Camps
Sports camps and active holiday programs are consistently the most popular category of school holiday programming in Melbourne. They solve two problems at once — structured care during work hours and physical activity that keeps kids engaged.
Council-Run Sports Programs
Every Melbourne council runs multi-sport holiday programs through their leisure centres and sporting facilities. These are typically the best value option. Programs include multi-sport days (rotating between basketball, soccer, tennis, athletics, and swimming), swimming intensives, gymnastics workshops, and outdoor adventure days.
Council sports programs usually cost $30 to $60 per day or $120 to $250 per week. They run from approximately 8:30am to 4:00pm with before and after care options at some centres.
AFL Holiday Clinics
AFL clubs and Auskick run structured holiday clinics across Melbourne during every school break. Programs are available for children aged 5 to 14 and focus on skills development, game play, and team-building. Most clinics run for 3 to 5 days.
Key providers include the AFL's official holiday programs and individual club clinics run by Melbourne-based AFL teams. Check your nearest club or the AFL Victoria website for current holiday clinic schedules.
Swimming Academies and Aquatic Programs
Melbourne's aquatic centres run intensive swimming programs during school holidays. These range from learn-to-swim crash courses (daily lessons across the break) to water polo introductions and diving workshops.
Major aquatic centres with strong holiday programming include Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (Albert Park), Casey ARC (Narre Warren), Aquarena (Doncaster), and WaterMarc (Greensborough). Holiday swim intensives typically cost $80 to $150 for a week of daily lessons.
Tennis, Cricket, and Specialist Sport Camps
Tennis Australia runs holiday Hot Shots programs at clubs across Melbourne. Cricket Victoria runs holiday camps through local cricket associations. Basketball Victoria runs development camps at regional basketball centres. These specialist programs suit children aged 7 and up who have an existing interest in the sport.
NGV Kids Holiday Workshops
Provider: National Gallery of Victoria
Ages: 5–12
Price: $15–$30 per session
Category: Art & Creative
Council Multi-Sport Holiday Camps
Provider: Local council leisure centres
Ages: 5–14
Price: $30–$60 per day
Category: Sport & Active
Code Camp Holiday Programs
Provider: Code Camp Australia
Ages: 5–13
Price: $200–$350 per week
Category: STEM & Coding
Melbourne Zoo Wild Encounters
Provider: Zoos Victoria
Ages: 6–14
Price: $80–$180 per day
Category: Zoo & Wildlife
Melbourne Youth Theatre Intensives
Provider: Various theatre companies
Ages: 7–17
Price: $250–$450 per week
Category: Performing Arts
Kids Cooking Holiday Workshops
Provider: Community kitchens & cooking schools
Ages: 6–15
Price: $60–$120 per session
Category: Cooking & Food
STEM and Coding Camps
STEM and coding camps have grown rapidly across Melbourne over the past five years. They now represent one of the strongest categories of holiday programming in the city, with options for children as young as five through to teenagers.
Code Camp
Code Camp is one of Australia's largest providers of kids' coding holiday programs. They run camps at schools and venues across Melbourne during every school break. Programs include app building, game design, and robotics. Age groups are split into 5 to 8 and 9 to 13. A typical week-long camp costs $200 to $350 and runs from 9:00am to 3:30pm.
Locations rotate between breaks but typically include venues in the inner city, eastern suburbs, and south-east. Check their website for current Melbourne locations before each break.
Scienceworks STEM Workshops
Scienceworks in Spotswood runs dedicated STEM holiday workshops during every school break. Programs include hands-on science experiments, engineering challenges, and technology workshops. The Lightning Room shows continue to run during holidays and are a must-book experience.
Scienceworks workshops typically cost $20 to $40 on top of entry and suit ages 5 to 12. Book early — the more hands-on sessions fill quickly.
Robotics and Engineering Camps
Several Melbourne providers run robotics-focused holiday programs. These typically use LEGO Mindstorms, VEX Robotics, or Arduino platforms. Programs run at community centres, schools, and dedicated workshop spaces across the suburbs.
Children interested in engineering and making will also find value in maker space holiday programs at venues like the Melbourne Makerspace and community workshop spaces in the inner suburbs.
For families interested in combining holiday programs with structured learning activities for kids, STEM camps offer an excellent bridge between holiday fun and educational development. The project-based learning approach means children build real skills while enjoying themselves.
Science and Nature Programs
Melbourne Museum and the Royal Botanic Gardens both run science-focused holiday programs. Melbourne Museum's programs connect to its permanent collection — dinosaur workshops, biodiversity sessions, and First Peoples science programs. The Botanic Gardens runs nature-based science programs including plant biology, ecology, and environmental science sessions for primary-aged children.
Performing Arts Programs
Melbourne's performing arts scene produces excellent school holiday programs for children and teenagers interested in drama, dance, music, and musical theatre.
Drama and Theatre Workshops
Several Melbourne theatre companies run structured holiday intensives for young performers. Programs typically run for 3 to 5 days and culminate in a performance for families on the final day. Children learn acting techniques, improvisation, script work, and stage presence.
Key providers include youth theatre companies operating in the inner city and middle suburbs. Programs are available for beginners through to experienced young performers. Most suit ages 7 to 17 with separate groups by age.
Costs for a week-long drama intensive typically range from $250 to $450. The quality is consistently high and the end-of-week performance gives children a tangible outcome.
Dance Holiday Programs
Melbourne's dance schools run intensive holiday workshops across styles including ballet, contemporary, hip hop, jazz, and musical theatre dance. These range from introductory sessions for younger children to advanced technique intensives for experienced dancers.
Programs run at dance studios across Melbourne. Many offer a sampler format where children try multiple dance styles across the week, which is ideal for children who haven't committed to a style yet.
Music Workshops
Music holiday programs in Melbourne include group instrument workshops, songwriting sessions, band programs, and music production courses for older children. The Melbourne Recital Centre occasionally runs family music programs during breaks. Community music schools across the suburbs run holiday workshops that are more affordable than private instruction.
Film and Media Programs at ACMI
ACMI at Federation Square runs creative media workshops during school holidays for older children and teenagers. Programs cover animation, short filmmaking, game design, and digital storytelling. These are among the most distinctive holiday programs in Melbourne and suit creatively inclined children aged 10 and up.
If you are planning a celebration during the school break, many of these performing arts venues also work well as kids birthday party venues in Melbourne.
Zoo and Wildlife Programs
Zoos Victoria runs some of Melbourne's most memorable school holiday programs across its three properties. These are structured educational experiences that go well beyond a standard zoo visit.
Melbourne Zoo Holiday Programs
Melbourne Zoo in Royal Park runs school holiday programs during every break. Programs include behind-the-scenes keeper experiences, animal encounter sessions, conservation workshops, and themed holiday activities. The zoo's education team designs age-appropriate programs that combine wildlife learning with hands-on activities.
Day programs at Melbourne Zoo typically cost $80 to $180 per child depending on the program type and duration. Full-day programs run from approximately 9:00am to 3:30pm and include structured activities, free time in the zoo, and a keeper-guided experience.
The zoo also runs multi-day holiday programs for children aged 6 to 14, which provide a deeper immersion into animal care and conservation. These are among Melbourne's most sought-after holiday programs and book out well in advance.
Werribee Open Range Zoo
Werribee Zoo runs holiday safari programs that take advantage of its open-range format. Children participate in guided safari experiences, learn about African and Australian grassland animals, and engage in conservation activities. The setting is distinctive — the open plains create a very different atmosphere from a traditional zoo.
Werribee's holiday programs suit ages 6 to 12 and typically run as single-day experiences costing $90 to $150 per child.
Healesville Sanctuary
Healesville Sanctuary in the Yarra Valley runs holiday programs focused on Australian native wildlife. Programs include close encounters with platypus, wombats, and birds of prey. The sanctuary's bushland setting makes it an immersive experience.
Holiday programs at Healesville typically cost $80 to $160 per child for a full-day structured experience. The sanctuary is approximately 60 minutes from Melbourne's eastern suburbs.
Cooking Classes for Kids
Cooking classes are one of the fastest-growing categories of school holiday programming in Melbourne. They teach practical life skills while keeping children engaged and producing something they can take home (and eat).
Cooking School Holiday Workshops
Several Melbourne cooking schools run dedicated kids' holiday workshops. Programs typically run for 2 to 4 hours and teach children to prepare a complete meal or bake a selection of treats. Classes are hands-on — every child cooks their own portion.
Sessions are themed by cuisine or skill level. Younger children (6 to 9) tend to focus on baking, simple meals, and food safety basics. Older children (10 to 15) tackle more complex techniques including knife skills, international cuisines, and multi-course meals.
Costs range from $60 to $120 per session. Most cooking schools provide all ingredients and equipment. Children take home what they make.
Council and Community Cooking Programs
Several Melbourne councils include cooking sessions in their holiday program calendars. These are typically shorter (1 to 2 hours), lower cost ($15 to $40), and run at community centres or library kitchens. The City of Yarra, City of Melbourne, and City of Port Phillip all regularly include cooking in their holiday programming.
Market and Food Trail Experiences
Older children and teenagers benefit from structured food experiences that go beyond the kitchen. Some providers run market-visit programs where children visit Queen Victoria Market or South Melbourne Market, select ingredients, and then cook a meal together. These combine food education with life skills like budgeting and shopping.
Library Holiday Programs
Melbourne's public libraries run free holiday programs during every school break. These are among the most underrated school holiday programs in Melbourne — consistently well-run, genuinely educational, and completely free.
What Libraries Offer During School Holidays
Every metropolitan library network programs a specific holiday schedule. Standard offerings include:
How to Access Library Programs
Check your local library network's website or visit your nearest branch 2 to 3 weeks before each school break. Most library holiday programs require online booking. Popular sessions (especially cooking, STEM, and craft for younger ages) fill within hours of opening.
Library programs are free and suit a wide age range. Most sessions run for 1 to 2 hours. They work brilliantly as a supplementary activity alongside other programs during the holiday period.
For more ideas that cost nothing, see our complete guide to free kids activities in Melbourne.
Cultural Programs and Experiences
Melbourne's cultural institutions run holiday programs that introduce children to history, Indigenous culture, migration stories, and world cultures.
Melbourne Museum Cultural Programs
Melbourne Museum runs holiday programs connected to its cultural exhibitions. Programs include First Peoples workshops exploring Indigenous Australian history and culture, natural history sessions, and interactive exhibition experiences. The museum's education team creates age-appropriate content that is both engaging and respectful.
Immigration Museum
The Immigration Museum on Flinders Street runs holiday workshops exploring migration stories and multicultural identity. Programs are particularly meaningful for children from diverse cultural backgrounds and help all children understand Melbourne's multicultural story.
Koorie Heritage Trust
The Koorie Heritage Trust in Federation Square runs cultural workshops during school holidays including art workshops, storytelling sessions, and cultural education programs. These provide children with a genuine connection to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture through creative engagement.
Multicultural Cooking and Cultural Exchanges
Several community organisations run cultural exchange programs during school holidays where children learn about different cultures through food, art, music, and storytelling. These programs are typically run through council cultural programs or community organisations in Melbourne's diverse suburbs.
On rainy days during the break, indoor playgrounds in Melbourne provide active play options that complement structured cultural programs.
Council-Run Programs by Region
Every Melbourne metropolitan council runs school holiday programs. The quality and scope vary, but most offer a mix of sport, art, cooking, STEM, and excursion-based activities. Council programs are typically the most affordable structured option available.
Inner City Councils
City of Melbourne runs holiday programs through its recreation centres, libraries, and community spaces. Programs span art, sport, coding, and cultural activities. The central location makes them accessible by public transport.
City of Yarra (Richmond, Collingwood, Fitzroy) runs a strong program through Collingwood Leisure Centre, Richmond Recreation Centre, and local libraries. Multi-sport days, art workshops, and cooking sessions are regular features.
City of Port Phillip (St Kilda, South Melbourne, Albert Park) runs programs through its leisure centres and libraries. The beachside location means summer programs often include beach activities and water safety.
City of Stonnington (Prahran, Toorak, Malvern) programs through Harold Holt Swim Centre and the Prahran Aquatic Centre, plus library programs across multiple branches.
Eastern Suburbs
City of Boroondara (Hawthorn, Camberwell, Kew, Balwyn) runs comprehensive holiday programs through its leisure centres and libraries. Programs are well-funded and consistently well-reviewed by local families.
City of Whitehorse (Box Hill, Nunawading, Blackburn) runs programs through Aqualink Box Hill, Sportlink, and the Whitehorse Centre. Multi-sport camps, swimming intensives, and performing arts workshops feature prominently.
City of Monash (Glen Waverley, Mount Waverley, Clayton) runs holiday programs through Monash Aquatic and Recreation Centre and Oakleigh Recreation Centre. STEM programs through Monash libraries are particularly strong.
City of Knox (Boronia, Wantirna, Ferntree Gully) offers programs through Knox Leisureworks and community houses. The proximity to the Dandenong Ranges means some programs include bushwalking and nature activities.
Western Suburbs
City of Hobsons Bay (Williamstown, Altona, Laverton) runs programs through its leisure centres and the beautiful Williamstown foreshore setting. Beach-based programs are a standout in summer.
City of Maribyrnong (Footscray, Yarraville, Seddon) programs through Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre and community spaces. The multicultural character of the area is reflected in culturally diverse programming.
City of Brimbank (Sunshine, St Albans, Deer Park) runs affordable holiday programs through Sunshine Leisure Centre, St Albans Leisure Centre, and local libraries.
City of Wyndham (Werribee, Point Cook, Tarneit) serves one of Melbourne's fastest-growing corridors. Programs run through AquaPulse, Eagle Stadium, and community learning centres. Demand is high — book as soon as registrations open.
Southern Suburbs
City of Glen Eira (Bentleigh, Caulfield, Carnegie) runs programs through Glen Eira Leisure and its library branches. Performing arts and art programs are particularly well-regarded.
City of Bayside (Brighton, Sandringham, Beaumaris) offers programs through its library network and community centres. Beach-based holiday activities complement structured programs during warmer breaks.
City of Kingston (Cheltenham, Mordialloc, Chelsea) runs programs through Don Tatnell Leisure Centre and its library network. Water-based activities feature in summer programming.
City of Greater Dandenong (Dandenong, Springvale, Noble Park) runs multicultural holiday programming through its leisure and community centres. Programs reflect the cultural diversity of the area.
Northern Suburbs
City of Darebin (Preston, Reservoir, Thornbury) runs holiday programs through Darebin Arts and Entertainment Centre, Reservoir Leisure Centre, and libraries. Art programs in particular are strong.
City of Moreland/Merri-bek (Brunswick, Coburg, Fawkner) offers programs through Brunswick Baths, Coburg Leisure Centre, and an excellent library network.
City of Banyule (Heidelberg, Ivanhoe, Greensborough) runs programs through WaterMarc aquatic centre and Olympic Leisure Centre. Bushwalking and nature programs use the nearby Yarra River corridor.
City of Whittlesea (South Morang, Mernda, Epping) serves Melbourne's northern growth corridor with programs at Thomastown Recreation and Aquatic Centre and Mill Park Leisure. Demand outstrips supply — set calendar reminders for booking dates.
How to Book — Costs, Timing, and What to Expect
Typical Costs Across Program Types
School holiday program costs in Melbourne vary significantly by type:
| Program Type | Typical Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Free library programs | Free | 1–2 hours |
| Council activity sessions | $15–$50 per session | 2–4 hours |
| Council full-day programs | $30–$60 per day | Full day |
| Multi-sport camps (week) | $150–$400 | 5 days |
| Art/creative workshops | $20–$80 per session | 2–3 hours |
| STEM/coding camps (week) | $200–$500 | 5 days |
| Performing arts intensives | $250–$450 per week | 5 days |
| Zoo/wildlife programs | $80–$180 per day | Full day |
| Cooking classes | $60–$120 per session | 2–4 hours |
When to Book
The booking timeline varies by program type, but the general rule is: book as early as possible.
Set calendar reminders for booking dates. Follow your council's social media pages for announcements. Sign up for email alerts from providers you plan to use.
What a Typical Day Looks Like
Most full-day holiday programs follow a similar structure:
Most programs require children to bring their own lunch, morning tea, water bottle, hat, and sunscreen. Specialist programs (cooking, art, swimming) will specify additional requirements.
Tips for Choosing the Right Program
Match the Program to Your Child
The single most important factor is whether the program aligns with your child's interests and temperament. A sport-mad child will thrive at a multi-sport camp but struggle in a quiet art workshop. A creative child who prefers small groups will find a large sports camp overwhelming.
Ask your child what they want to do. Give them two or three realistic options and let them choose. Children who have input into the decision engage much better during the program.
Check Staff Ratios and Qualifications
Quality programs maintain appropriate staff-to-child ratios. For younger children (5 to 8), look for ratios of 1:8 or better. For older children, 1:10 to 1:12 is standard. All staff should hold current Working with Children Checks.
Ask whether staff are trained in the program's discipline. A coding camp staffed by qualified programmers delivers a fundamentally different experience from one staffed by general childcare workers.
Read the Cancellation Policy
Holiday programs have varying cancellation policies. Some offer full refunds up to 7 days before the start date. Others are non-refundable once booked. Council programs tend to have more generous cancellation terms than private providers.
Understand the policy before you book, especially if you are booking multiple programs across the break.
Consider Location and Logistics
A brilliant program on the other side of Melbourne creates logistical stress that undermines its value. Prioritise programs that are close to home, close to work, or on a manageable transport route.
If you have multiple children of different ages, look for programs that run at the same venue or nearby locations to simplify drop-off and pick-up.
Mix Structured and Unstructured Days
Filling every day of a two-week school break with structured programs is expensive and exhausting — for parents and children alike. A mix of two to three structured program days per week with unstructured family days, playdates, and downtime produces the best results.
Use structured programs on your work days and keep weekends and some weekdays free for family outings and rest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best school holiday programs in Melbourne for 2026?
Melbourne's best school holiday programs include NGV Kids art workshops, Melbourne Zoo Wild Encounters, Scienceworks STEM camps, Australian Sports Camps multi-sport programs, and council-run holiday programs across every municipality. Programs run during all four school breaks — Term 1 (28 March to 13 April), Term 2 (27 June to 12 July), Term 3 (19 September to 4 October), and Term 4 (19 December to 26 January 2027).
How much do school holiday programs cost in Melbourne?
Costs range widely. Free programs are available through public libraries and some council events. Council-run activity programs typically cost $15 to $50 per session. Multi-day sports camps run $150 to $400 per week. Specialist STEM and coding camps range from $200 to $500 per week. Zoo and wildlife programs are usually $80 to $180 per day.
When should I book school holiday programs in Melbourne?
Book popular programs 3 to 4 weeks before each school break. Council programs often open bookings 2 to 3 weeks in advance and fill within days. Specialist camps like coding and performing arts fill earliest. Free library programs also require booking and can fill within hours of opening. Set calendar reminders for booking dates.
Are there free school holiday programs in Melbourne?
Yes. Every Melbourne council runs free or low-cost holiday programs through libraries, community centres, and leisure facilities. Public libraries across Melbourne run free STEM workshops, craft sessions, author visits, and reading challenges during every school break. Some museums offer free children's entry and holiday activities.
What school holiday programs are available for teenagers in Melbourne?
Melbourne offers strong holiday programming for teenagers including coding and game design camps, film and media workshops at ACMI, performing arts intensives, advanced sports academies, cooking masterclasses, and volunteer programs at wildlife sanctuaries. Many council programs include dedicated sessions for ages 12 to 17.
What should I look for when choosing a school holiday program?
Key factors include age appropriateness, staff-to-child ratios, provider credentials and reviews, cancellation policies, what is included in the fee (meals, materials, excursions), drop-off and pick-up times that work with your schedule, and whether the program aligns with your child's interests. Ask about the daily structure and whether outdoor time is included.
Sources and Methodology
This guide is compiled from publicly available information from the following sources:
Program details, dates, and pricing are based on published 2025–2026 programming and are subject to change. We recommend confirming current details directly with each provider before booking. Pricing is in Australian dollars and is indicative only.
Written by the VicBuzz Team. For the complete picture of school holiday options across all of Victoria, see our school holiday activities across Victoria pillar guide. For budget-friendly ideas between programs, see our guide to free kids activities in Melbourne.
Author: VicBuzz Team — local parents and community contributors covering family life across Victoria. We research, visit, and review family venues and programs across Melbourne and regional Victoria to help parents make informed decisions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best school holiday programs in Melbourne for 2026?
Melbourne's best school holiday programs include NGV Kids art workshops, Melbourne Zoo Wild Encounters, Scienceworks STEM camps, Australian Sports Camps multi-sport programs, and council-run holiday programs across every municipality. Programs run during all four school breaks — Term 1 (28 March to 13 April), Term 2 (27 June to 12 July), Term 3 (19 September to 4 October), and Term 4 (19 December to 26 January 2027).
How much do school holiday programs cost in Melbourne?
School holiday program costs in Melbourne range widely. Free programs are available through public libraries and some council events. Council-run activity programs typically cost $15 to $50 per session. Multi-day sports camps run $150 to $400 per week. Specialist STEM and coding camps range from $200 to $500 per week. Zoo and wildlife programs are usually $80 to $180 per day.
When should I book school holiday programs in Melbourne?
Book popular programs 3 to 4 weeks before each school break. Council programs often open bookings 2 to 3 weeks in advance and fill within days. Specialist camps like coding and performing arts fill earliest. Free library programs also require booking and can fill within hours of opening. Set calendar reminders for booking dates.
Are there free school holiday programs in Melbourne?
Yes. Every Melbourne council runs free or low-cost holiday programs through libraries, community centres, and leisure facilities. Public libraries across Melbourne run free STEM workshops, craft sessions, author visits, and reading challenges during every school break. Some museums offer free children's entry and holiday activities.
What school holiday programs are available for teenagers in Melbourne?
Melbourne offers strong holiday programming for teenagers including coding and game design camps, film and media workshops at ACMI, performing arts intensives, advanced sports academies, cooking masterclasses, and volunteer programs at wildlife sanctuaries. Many council programs include dedicated sessions for ages 12 to 17.
What should I look for when choosing a school holiday program?
Key factors include age appropriateness, staff-to-child ratios, provider credentials and reviews, cancellation policies, what is included in the fee (meals, materials, excursions), drop-off and pick-up times that work with your schedule, and whether the program aligns with your child's interests. Ask about the daily structure and whether outdoor time is included.