HOT: Children’s Week Picnic, Werribee Park, Werribee

When I was small and asked my parents why there was Mothers' Day and Fathers' Day but no Children's Day, their reply (which they must teach at Parenting 101) was ‘Every day is Children's Day.'

So as a new parent I am surprised to discover that there was such a thing as Children's Week. In fact, it's a national program running every year in October and is based on the articles expressed in the United Nations Convention on the Right of the Child, highlighting play, wellbeing and protection.

The Victoria Government works with local councils to run various activities during Children's Week. One of the biggest and most popular events is the annual Children's Picnic at Werribee Park organised by Wyndham City Council.

On the day the estate of Werribee Mansion is taken over by the kids! There is music, dancing, mini-golf, mini bungee, fairies, craft activities, giant board games, an obstacle course, African drumming – it is pretty spectacular. Most of the activities are aimed at preschoolers rather than toddlers and babies but I think NKOTB still enjoys the singing and dancing acts, plus of course mega-Lego!

The picnic is held annually and we'll definitely return when NKOTB is a bit older.

Werribee Park is well worth a visit in its own right as it's home to:

• Werribee Open Range Zoo – see African safari animals in an open environment. It's pretty cool being able to spot giraffes from the road!
• Victorian State Rose Garden – award winning garden.
• Shadowfax Winery – wine tasting and fine dining.
• Mansion Hotel – I've stayed at the hotel a few times and it's very luxurious.
• Werribee Mansion – the former residence of the Chirnside family.

To check out other activities being held in Victoria during Children's Week, click here.