School holidays often begin with tired kids and frazzled parents. Parenting educator, Michelle Mitchell, believes this “reset time” is vital for families. 

“Holidays start with discomfort, not comfort,” Mitchell explained. “Kids are frayed and need PJ days to rebalance.”

The first few days can feel chaotic. Meltdowns, crankiness, and sibling fights are common. Michelle encourages parents to ride it out with empathy. “If we normalise it, kids feel safe to regroup and recalibrate,”she said.

The Gift of Boredom

Boredom may sound like a problem, but it’s an opportunity. “Boredom lights up the same part of the brain as pain,” Michelle said. “But it’s a doorway to creativity, independence, and growth.”

Instead of rushing to fix it, parents can guide kids toward activities. A “boredom menu” on the fridge with fun ideas works wonders.

Friendships and Resetting

Some children carry heavy feelings from tough school terms. Friendships may be strained, or bullying might linger. “We want to help them boost positive neurochemicals during this reset period,” Mitchell said.

She suggests cutting off negative influences, whether online or in person, and deliberately creating experiences that boost belonging.

Structure and Routine

Chores shouldn’t disappear during holidays. Kids thrive on rhythm. “Structure makes kids happier in the long run,” Michelle explained. “Family rituals, like Saturday pancake mornings, anchor them.”

Managing Screen Time

Screens aren’t the enemy, but balance is key. “Think of screen time like sugar,” Michelle said. “It’s fine in small doses, but kids also need nourishing connection.”

Matching Energy Levels

Parents should watch for natural peaks in their children’s energy. Encouraging play or activity at those times helps prevent conflict and late-night chaos.

Using Holiday Space for Connection

Holidays also provide time for deeper conversations. “Unhurried moments reveal what’s really on kids’ minds,” Mitchell said. “Put away your phone and be present.”

Preparing for School’s Return

As holidays end, some children may feel anxious. Michelle suggests talking it out. “When kids talk things out, they don’t have to act things out,” she explained. Practical steps like laying out uniforms or making checklists help ease the transition.

School holidays aren’t about perfection. They’re about rest, reset, and reconnection. Michelle’s advice? Be present, expect meltdowns, and value boredom, it’s where growth begins.

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.

Feature image: Canva

The Bluey’s World season has been officially extended through to February 2026, with fans of the hit TV show travelling from all corners of the globe to visit.

Since opening in November 2024, Bluey’s World has already welcomed 200,000 visitors, a significant milestone that reflects the attraction’s popularity with families, fans and travellers alike.

The immersive experience, inspired by the globally loved TV series Bluey, has also gained international recognition, recently earning a coveted spot on TIME Magazine’s 2025 World’s Greatest Places to Visit list – a nod to its growing status as a must-see destination.

Andrew Kay, who is the producer and creative behind Bluey’s World said “The response to Bluey’s World has been phenomenal. Seeing families laugh, play, and explore the attraction firsthand has been incredibly rewarding. We set out to create a truly special experience, and it’s wonderful to watch it become a must-visit Brisbane destination for fans of all ages.”

The lucky 200,000th visitor to Bluey’s World Ben Armstrong, who was visiting with his partner and two daughters from Perth, was recently gifted an exclusive VIP Blue Card – granting unlimited access to Bluey’s World. They join fellow Bluey fans with Blue Cards, including Eva Mendes, Chris Hemsworth and Kylie Minogue.

Andrew Powell MP, Queensland’s Minister for Environment and Tourism, and Minister for Science and Innovation praised Bluey’s World for delivering significant economic benefits to the region, attracting visitors from across Australia as well as New Zealand, North America, United Kingdom, Canada and Singapore.

“Bluey’s World is a global sensation, drawing fans from around the world to the Heeler family’s home state of Queensland. We anticipate that Bluey’s World will help to generate as much as $18 million for our state economy, as visitors make the most of our hotels, restaurants and other hospitality in their time here. Reaching this milestone is a fantastic achievement and we hope to attract 200,000 more across the now extended season of the event.”

Adrian Schrinner, Brisbane Lord Mayor also acknowledged the attraction’s impact on the city.

“Brisbane is Australia’s lifestyle capital and Bluey showcases our great city to millions of fans worldwide. Celebrating 200,000 visitors at Bluey’s World is a wonderful reflection of the series’ success and what it’s done for our local economy. Allowing fans to experience Bluey’s hometown in real life is another way Brisbane is capturing global attention as one of the best places in the world to visit.”

Bluey’s World is in Brisbane at 281 Macarthur Drive, Hamilton Northshore. Pre-release tickets are set for Tuesday 6 May 2025, ahead of the general public on-sale from Wednesday 7 May 2025.

Article supplied with thanks to 96five.

Feature image: Melanie Zanetti (Chilli) & Dave McCormack (Bandit) at Bluey’s World in Brisbane (supplied BBC Studios).