Keep summer simple with water, sand, and sunshine play made for under fives. Try these calm, low-mess sensory ideas with safety tips, gentle movement, and easy clean-up. Plus how Bear and Cub offers a cool, low-stimulation haven when you need it.

The right play centre is more than a play space—it is a gentle hub where kids feel brave and parents feel seen. At Bear and Cub, our calm design and open-ended play help little ones explore while grown-ups find real connection.

From a brand new play structure to new friendships, coffee chats, and toddlers who finally settled into long stretches of play—this year at Bear and Cub was all about community. Here are the moments that made it special, and what we are carrying into the new year.

We are taking a little family time this Christmas so we can return refreshed in January. While Bear and Cub is closed, try these easy, low mess play ideas you can set up with what you already own. Calm sensory trays, open ended play, gentle movement, and quiet reset corners for toddlers and preschoolers.

Make Christmas calmer for under-fives with simple routines, gentle outings, and easy resets. This guide shares stress-saving tips for sleep, food, feelings, and gifts—and how Bear and Cub’s low-stimulation sessions can be your quiet haven in December.

You do not need hours to build a strong bond. Just tiny, consistent moments. Try these simple, everyday ways to connect with your child through play, rituals, and calm presence. Bear and Cub makes it easy with a gentle space designed for ages 0 to 5.

R U OK? Day reminds us to check in. The days after matter just as much. If you are parenting little ones, mental bandwidth can feel thin...

Kinder orientation season is here, and it’s completely normal for both little ones and parents to feel a mix of excitement and nerves. Building social skills before starting kinder can help your child feel more confident, connected, and ready to make new friends. Here’s how you can gently support your child as they take this big step.

Sleep challenges with toddlers can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. After struggling for months with our first (thanks to reflux and sleepless nights), I learned firsthand that it’s okay to ask for help—and that real support is out there. In this post, I’m sharing our journey, what actually helped, and gentle tips for getting more rest for both you and your little one. If you’re feeling exhausted or stuck, I hope our story reminds you that things can get better.

Discover why Bear and Cub Play Centre is more than just a space for little ones to play. It is a community hub for Bendigo families. Learn about our journey, what makes us unique, and how we are making a real difference for parents and children aged 0 to 5.