Pre-school sports should be more like play than a lesson or drill, with coaches emphasising fun, socialisation and key motor skills. Developing an understanding of working as a team, sharing, and following instructions are also critical elements. On the Gold Coast, we are lucky to have a number of options for children aged 1-5 starting their sporting journey. This list below covers both indoor and outdoor options, casual attendance and term programs. With locations right across the Coast, you're bound to find something that fits with your schedule!
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Dig It, Tamborine Mountain
Dig It Tamborine Mountain is Queensland's first mini excavator park for kids big and small! Here, you will sit in the drivers seat of real excavator machinery and participate in construction-inspired activities. It's fully instructed fun for kids and their parents too! You don't need any experience, just a willingness to give it a go.
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EMF Jnr play centre, Nerang
EMF Jnr is the first of its kind on the Gold Coast, encompassing kids specific training rooms, a creche, party room and the most EPIC play centre on the Gold Coast. Divided into 5 different zones - toddler play, trampolines, jumping castle, kids play and ninja warrior course, there is something for everyone here!
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The Messy Place, Ashmore
The Messy Place at Ashmore is the ultimate creative sensory play centre on the Gold Coast, designed exclusively for children under 6 years old. They offer creative and messy play sessions in a safe and enjoyable environment. Here, kids can unleash their imagination and make a mess, while parents relax and connect with not only their children, but other parents too!
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Tamborine Mountain Glow Worm Caves
The Tamborine Mountain Glow Worm caves are a great opportunity for the family to get up close and personal with thousands of tiny little glow worms! Usually only seen at night, their purpose built sanctuary on Tamborine Mountain means you can support glow worm conservation and see them during day light hours.
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Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Burleigh Heads
It's likely you've taken the coastal walk around Burleigh Heads before, but do you know about the cultural significance this place has to local Indigenous people? Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre is the Gold Coast's only dedicated Aboriginal cultural centre located at the foot of Burleigh Headland, offering family friendly guided walking tours.
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Jurassic World by Brickman, Queensland Museum
This December, Queensland Museum welcomed the arrival of Jurassic World By Brickman as their newest exhibit, sure to bring in the crowds these Summer holidays. Over 50 large-scale dinosaurs, props, scenes and activities made from over 6 million LEGO® bricks will leave explorers in awe as they embark on a thrilling journey through Jurassic World.
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EMF Junior, Pacific Fair
EMF Pacific Fair is a parent's dream when it comes to getting the shopping done while the kids play! On offer here are regular drop & shop sessions, but it's also a great energy burner when you have the kids and have a bunch of errands to do. Promise them a play at the end of your outing and I can guarantee they'll participate with a smile on their face!
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Gold Coast Motor Museum & Stanley’s Barn, Upper Coomera
You don't need to be a car lover to appreciate the Gold Coast Motor Museum - anyone who enjoys a great view, history and an incredible meal will feel right at home here! Next door to the museum, you'll find Stanley’s Barn - where an award-winning chef prepares culinary treats for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Very family friendly, the restaurant is set beside a huge lawn - be sure to request a table on the patio! The kids can run around on the grass and visit a few farm animals during your visit.
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Marine Discovery Centre, Hastings Point
The Marine Discovery Centre is located within the North Star Holiday Resort complex at Hastings Point, and is one of Australia’s largest, privately funded museums. It has world class marine and coastal science displays focused on the local Hastings Point ecosystem, and you have the opportunity to get hands on with rockpool inhabitants.
