Seasonal Fun: Perth Toddler Activities by Season

Perth is a city blessed with a climate that allows for outdoor fun nearly all year round. However, each season brings its own unique opportunities and challenges when it comes to keeping toddlers entertained. Whether it’s the sunny beaches of summer, the colorful parks of autumn, cozy indoor play during winter, or nature walks in the vibrant spring, there’s always something exciting to do with your little one. This guide explores the best activities for toddlers in Perth, tailored to each season.

Summer: Sun, Sand, and Water Play

1. Beach Trips and Coastal Playgrounds

Perth’s summer is synonymous with beach days. With long stretches of sandy shores and calm waters, Perth’s beaches are ideal for toddlers who love to play in the sand and splash in the waves. Cottesloe Beach is a family favorite, offering gentle waves, soft sand, and nearby playgrounds that are perfect for a day out.

• Activity: Sandcastle building, paddling in the shallow waters, and picnicking under the shade.
• Tip: Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the peak sun hours and ensure you have plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water.

2. Water Playgrounds and Splash Pads

If the beach isn’t your thing, Perth has several water playgrounds that are perfect for hot summer days. The Elizabeth Quay BHP Billiton Water Park is a fantastic spot where toddlers can cool down with fountains and water jets that are both fun and safe.

• Activity: Running through water jets, splashing in shallow pools, and playing with water toys.
• Tip: Bring along a change of clothes and towels, as your toddler is sure to get wet and might want to dry off afterward.

3. Visit the Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA)

For a break from the sun while still enjoying the wonders of the ocean, a visit to AQWA is perfect. Your toddler can explore the underwater world without getting wet, with exhibits featuring local marine life, including sharks, rays, and colorful fish.

• Activity: Interactive exhibits, touching starfish in the touch pool, and watching marine creatures swim overhead in the underwater tunnel.
• Tip: Plan your visit in the middle of the day when the sun is at its peak to enjoy a cool, indoor activity.

Autumn: Outdoor Adventures and Park Play

1. Park Outings and Nature Play

Autumn in Perth is a wonderful time to explore the city’s many parks as the weather cools down, and the trees begin to change color. Hyde Park in North Perth is a fantastic spot, with its shaded playgrounds, duck ponds, and plenty of space to run around.

• Activity: Feeding the ducks, playing on the swings and slides, and enjoying a picnic under the trees.
• Tip: Pack a picnic with seasonal fruits and snacks, and bring along a blanket for a relaxing day out.

2. Explore Bold Park

For a more nature-focused outing, Bold Park offers a variety of walking trails suitable for toddlers, with views of the city and the coast. The cooler autumn weather makes it an ideal time to explore the bushland and spot native wildlife.

• Activity: Nature walks, bird watching, and exploring the sensory garden.
• Tip: Bring a lightweight stroller if your toddler might get tired of walking. The trails are well-maintained and stroller-friendly.

3. Visit Araluen Botanic Park

Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Araluen Botanic Park, where the changing leaves create a stunning backdrop for a day of exploration. The park’s pathways are easy for toddlers to navigate, and there are plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the scenery.

• Activity: Exploring the gardens, spotting wildlife, and enjoying a quiet picnic.
• Tip: Check the park’s event calendar for special family-friendly events during the autumn season.

Winter: Indoor Play and Cozy Adventures

1. Indoor Play Centres

Winter in Perth can bring cooler temperatures and rainy days, making indoor play centres a go-to option for keeping toddlers entertained. Lollipop’s Playland & Cafe in Bayswater is a great choice, with a dedicated toddler area filled with soft play equipment, ball pits, and slides.

• Activity: Climbing, sliding, and exploring the soft play areas in a safe and enclosed environment.
• Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds, especially on weekends and school holidays.

2. Visit the WA Museum Boola Bardip

The WA Museum Boola Bardip offers a range of exhibits that are both fun and educational for toddlers. The Discovery Zone is particularly well-suited for young children, with hands-on activities and interactive displays.

• Activity: Exploring exhibits, participating in interactive displays, and learning about Western Australia’s history and culture.
• Tip: Check the museum’s schedule for special toddler-friendly events or workshops during your visit.

3. Cozy Up with Storytime at the Library

Winter is the perfect time to visit your local library for storytime sessions. Many libraries in Perth offer weekly storytime that is tailored to toddlers, featuring books, songs, and crafts.

• Activity: Listening to stories, singing along to nursery rhymes, and participating in simple craft activities.
• Tip: Bring your toddler’s library card so you can borrow some books to take home for more cozy reading time.

For more information, visit the City of Perth Library.

Spring: Blossoms, Wildlife, and Outdoor Exploration

1. Nature Walks at Perth’s Best Parks

Spring brings Perth’s parks to life with blooming flowers and abundant wildlife. Kings Park is especially beautiful during this time, with wildflowers in full bloom and plenty of opportunities for toddlers to explore the great outdoors.

• Activity: Walking through wildflower displays, spotting birds and insects, and playing in the nature playground.
• Tip: Visit the park’s information centre to pick up a map of the best wildflower viewing spots.

2. Visit the Perth Zoo

Spring is an excellent time to visit the Perth Zoo, where the animals are more active and the gardens are in full bloom. The zoo’s lush, green environment is perfect for a day of exploring, with plenty of shaded areas to take breaks and have a snack.

• Activity: Visiting the different animal exhibits, riding the zoo’s carousel, and enjoying a picnic in the gardens.
• Tip: Check the zoo’s website for feeding times and special presentations that might interest your toddler.

3. Pick Your Own Strawberries

Spring is strawberry season in Perth, and there’s nothing more fun for a toddler than picking their own fruit. Farms like Ti Strawberry Farm in Bullsbrook offer “pick your own” sessions where families can enjoy a day out in the fields.

• Activity: Picking strawberries, exploring the farm, and enjoying fresh fruit straight from the vine.
• Tip: Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the sun can still be strong even in spring.

Conclusion

Perth offers a wide variety of activities for toddlers, no matter the season. From sun-soaked beach days in summer to cozy indoor play during winter, and from colorful autumn park outings to springtime nature walks, there’s always something exciting to do with your little one. By tailoring your activities to the season, you can make the most of Perth’s unique climate and ensure that your toddler enjoys every moment of their outdoor adventures.

So grab your sunscreen in summer, your picnic blanket in autumn, your cozy sweaters in winter, and your walking shoes in spring, and head out to explore the best of Perth with your toddler, season by season.