Hi there Reader Do you like pickles? I'm partial to a good gherkin myself. But you know what pickle I absolutely cannot stand? When you've planned the perfect outdoor day with the kids and wake up to absolutely bucketing rain. You know the feeling - everyone's already excited, you've packed snacks, and suddenly you're staring out the window at grey skies thinking "well, crap." Here's how I get out of it: I keep a secret list on my phone called "Rainy Day Wins" - places in Geelong that are...
12 days ago • 3 min read
Hi there Reader I’ve been thinking lately about how lucky I am to do this work, sharing local events, creating content, and helping other parents stop winging it every weekend. So I figured I’d share a little love note to my job. Here are 5 things I really love about being your local go-to gal for Geelong With Kids: 1. It gives families their weekends back.No more endless scrolling or “what should we do today?” convos that go nowhere. I love helping people skip the overwhelm and get straight...
19 days ago • 3 min read
Hi there Reader Spring has officially sprung (kind of). I’m still sending the kids out with both beanies and sunscreen, but at least there’s a bit more sun on our side. This change in seasons has me itching to do something new and if you’re anything like me, you’re probably feeling ready to shake off the winter cobwebs too. So this month, I’m starting something new here at Geelong With Kids... A monthly family challenge. Nothing big or over-complicated. Just one simple, fun challenge that we...
26 days ago • 3 min read
Hey Reader You know that feeling when the weekend rolls around and someone says, “So what are we doing today?” And you freeze because your brain is juggling nap times, snack needs and weather apps? Yep, I’ve been there. That’s exactly why I started doing this one simple thing that makes life with kids so much easier. Every Sunday night after the kids are asleep, I do a quick scroll through what’s happening locally and drop a few ideas into a shared calendar or note on my phone. Parks we...
about 1 month ago • 3 min read
Hey Reader Whether you're looking to ignite your little one's love of reading, indulge in some gluten-free goodness, or treat the fam to a truly magical (and budget-friendly) staycation, this issue has something for every kind of crew. Scroll down👇 for our top picks, fresh finds and new experiences across Geelong, the Bellarine and beyond. Joyce xx Top Picks Geelong Gluten Free Lifestyle Show (Saturday 9 Aug - Sunday 10 Aug) Head to Deakin Waterfront for two days of gluten-free goodies,...
about 1 month ago • 2 min read
Hey Reader Ever heard of an AMA? (That’s "Ask Me Anything.") Well, I’m hosting one...right here in your inbox! If you’ve ever wondered how I find the best events for Geelong With Kids, how I manage work-life balance with kids, or you just want some more personalised recs—now’s your chance to ask. Hit reply anytime this week, and I’ll personally answer your questions. Whether you’re looking for the best toddler-friendly parks or curious about starting your own local newsletter, I’m all ears....
about 2 months ago • 3 min read
Hey Reader Are you ready to turn winter blues into rainbow hues? This week's lineup is packed with creative workshops, outdoor adventures, and cosy market vibes that'll have your kids asking "what's next?" instead of "are we there yet?" Grab a cuppa and let's get into it. Joyce xx Top Picks Kayaking for Kids Term 3 (Saturdays from 26 Jul – 13 Sep) Perfect for budding water babies aged 8-16 who want to paddle their way to confidence while learning essential water safety skills. Piccadilly...
about 2 months ago • 2 min read
Hey Reader You know that feeling when you've planned the perfect family day out, only to have someone ask "what else can we do?" five minutes after arriving? Yeah, me too. That's why I've become obsessed with finding those hidden gems and backup plans that keep everyone happy. This week's lineup is packed with exactly those kinds of discoveries – from nocturnal bat encounters that'll have your kids buzzing with excitement, to hands-on food adventures for when you want to try something...
2 months ago • 3 min read
Hey Reader Can I ask a question? What does community mean to you? (for real–hit reply and let me know. I love getting replies.) REPLY TO ME For me, it’s a group of people gathered together for a common cause. Or interest. Like you and me and the other hundreds of people on this email list. We are all wanting to create happy memories with kids by exploring Geelong, the Bellarine and Surf Coast. And that's exactly what this week's events are about – bringing families together through shared...
2 months ago • 3 min read