School holidays mean two weeks without the usual routine. For parents and carers, they can also mean two weeks without a break. Many families look for respite care in Melbourne so they can rest and recharge while their child enjoys a safe, engaging day.
At Sensory Play Centre, we offer respite sensory play in Ravenhall for that reason.
Why Carers Need a Break
Caring for a child with disability is a full-time commitment. Rest is not a luxury. It helps parents and carers stay well. Many also juggle work, siblings, and appointments during the holidays. Time to rest can make a real difference. Carer Gateway, an Australian Government program, offers free support for carers, including planned and emergency respite.
Common Worries About Respite
Leaving a child in someone else’s care can feel hard. That is completely normal. Finding respite care in Melbourne that feels right takes time.
Parents can start with a shorter session. They can also share their child’s needs, likes, and calming strategies with our team beforehand.
What Respite Looks Like With Us
Our respite sessions offer structured activities in a safe, nurturing space. Children can enjoy arts and crafts and interactive sensory play. Activities are gentle, playful, and paced to suit each child. Our trained staff supervise all activities.
Spots are limited, so early booking helps. Sessions can also give children a chance to meet new friends in a relaxed setting. To keep the space clean and sensory-friendly, we ask families not to bring snacks or outside food.
Make the Day Feel Familiar
Familiar things help children settle. A favourite toy or comfort item can make a big difference. Talking through the day beforehand, with pictures if helpful, can also reduce worry.
How We Keep Children Comfortable
Comfort comes first. We cap sessions so the space never feels overcrowded. Our environment is sensory-friendly, with calm areas and supportive staff. Children can explore at their own pace.
Combining Respite With Holiday Fun
Some children enjoy a full holiday plan. Our school holiday sensory programs suit children aged 5 to 12 of all abilities. As an NDIS play centre, we can help families understand which sessions may suit their plans.
Using NDIS Funding
Many families use NDIS funding under Core Supports for respite care. The NDIS lists the supports it funds, and every plan is different. Families can check their plan or contact us for help.
Plan Ahead for the Holidays
The 2026 spring holidays run from Monday 21 September to Friday 2 October, according to the Victorian Government. Book early and tell us about your child’s needs. It also helps to prepare the child by talking through what the day will look like. A trial session before the busiest days can help a child settle, and asking about the daily schedule helps everyone feel ready.
Ways to Use Your Break
A break is not selfish. Parents and carers can rest, catch up on appointments, or spend time with siblings. Even a few quiet hours can help. Many families use the time to recharge after a busy term.
Book Your Break
You deserve time to recharge, and your child deserves a joyful day. Sensory Play Centre is an inclusive play centre offering sensory play disability support and a friendly sensory playground in Ravenhall. Contact us today.
