How to Choose the Perfect School Holiday Program (Without Losing Your Marbles)*

Written By Erin Griffin

School holiday options are wild. Incursions, full-day programs, in-home care, pop-up days, Mini Mates Dates… choosing the right one shouldn’t feel like selecting a mortgage. Here’s what actually matters.

1. Safety first, always
Ask about child safety policies, ratios, first aid, emergency procedures, staff checks — all the boring-but-essential stuff that should be rock solid. (We’ve got this covered. Always.)

2. Program structure & activities
Do they offer variety? Does your child’s personality suit the vibe (busy days vs calmer activities)? Can they tell you what a typical day looks like?
Mini Mates Dates and SH Programs? Absolutely.

3. Communication is key
You deserve updates. You deserve reassurance. And you definitely deserve not to wonder what your child is doing for nine hours.
(Famly app for the win.)

4. Flexibility + hours
Does the program suit your work schedule? Can they handle siblings? Is there an early drop-off/late pick-up option?

5. The kids should LOVE it
If it’s fun, safe and engaging — they’ll beg to go back. If it’s lame… good luck.

Erin Griffin
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