What to watch these holidays: A guide for parents

School holidays. A time for families to relax and connect (theoretically at least). In reality, it can be a juggle that has parents digging deep into the parenting toolkit to survive the fortnight with minimal tears and tantrums (from all parties). So, these holidays, we've prepared a screen time survival guide, with kids shows matched to what you need in the moment. And the best bit? They're all free to stream. 🚘Road trip time When you've got time to kill and would prefer not to hear "are we there yet?" on a loop. Little Kids Truly unique and low-key, there are two films that follow the toddler-esque shenanigans of feline besties 'Tummy Tom' and 'Cat Mouse'. Adapted from the Dutch children's book series Dikkie Dik, each film has a one-hour run time — perfect for a long drive. Rated: G Everyone's favourite dragon is back in a new episodic format. It's sure to captivate the youngest viewer with the (mis)adventures of Doctor Princess Pearl and Sir Gadabout the Great. Rated: G Big Kids A mockumentary series showcasing all the drama of the schoolyard from the kids' perspectives. Highly addictive viewing. Rated: G Lovely, low-stimulation stories about a group of Indigenous kids from the Aussie bush. The show comes from Aussie Gumnuts e-books and has the same feel, with a narrator reading as the vivid pages turn. Plus, there's some bush tips and tricks along the way. Rated: PG Based on Andy Lee's bestselling 'Do Not Open This Book' series, the screen version is just as funny, with Wizz trapped inside a TV show as he tries to convince viewers to turn it off. Best of all, there's two seasons waiting. Rated: G ☔ Rainy day activities When the local playground is off-limits but there's energy to burn and you're all out of ideas. Little Kids A delightful series that explores Indigenous culture and teaches traditional dance inspired by the land, animals and elements. Deadly! Rated: G Every member of The Wiggles is a national treasure, and this show proves it. Joyous, fun and jam-packed with song and dance, it's sure to be a staple in your household (if it's not already, that is). Rated: G Why not use a rainy day to prepare for planting when the sun returns? A fun and engaging way to learn about all things plants from legend Costa Georgiadis, as he tackles a variety of outdoor projects with budding junior gardeners. Rated: G Big Kids Got a video game enthusiast in your house? They'll love GG: Spawn Squad, which features young Aussie gamers showing off their skills in a range of new games and old classics. Rated: PG Join Miss Kylie from the National Ballet School of Canada as she runs dance tutorials on everything from country to K-Pop. It's the perfect way to burn some energy and learn some new moves. Rated: G 🤫 Winding down Low-stimulation shows to help pacify the kids after a rambunctious lounge room dance party or play date. Little Kids A mindful stop-motion delight, narrated by Keira Knightley. Join The Sound Collector and his friend Mole as they capture all the weird and wonderful sounds of the world around them. Rated: G Two adventurous floating bubbles explore a new topic each episode. From dinosaurs to pizza, there's something for everyone's interests. Ideal for curious kids and good for dialling the energy down while maintaining focus. Rated: G 🍝 Cooking dinner A solid block of distraction-free time is the goal here, so you can do what needs doing. Little Kids Adapted from Julia Donaldson's book of the same name, this charming short film will keep your kids entertained and, more importantly, calm. Rated: G Play School needs no introduction. This timeless classic is still as entertaining and engaging as it was when it hit our screens 60 years ago (Happy Birthday Play School!). Your kids will love it as much as you used to. Rated: G A fun and sentimental show about seven-year-old Flower (and her bestie Flour), who lives with her family above her parents' restaurant. New episodes have just dropped but be warned, you might find your little viewer joining you in the kitchen to play restaurants of their own. Rated: G Big Kids Tom Gleeson takes aim at a slew of younger contestants, but don't worry, he keeps it age appropriate and hilariously, they give the attitude right back. A family favourite. Rated: PG Hosted by Emma Watkins, this series sees Aussie teens take over family budgets for a month, and is an engaging way to sneakily introduce financial literacy and budgeting to your children. Rated: PG 🍿 Family movie night Put down the iPads, and solidify the family bond with some old-fashioned co-viewing. Truly a wonderful film for kids and adults alike, Paddington features many well-known Brits and our own Nicole Kidman as the villain. Very wholesome. Rated: G Mr Magorium's magical living toy store is the stuff of dreams, but when he decides to retire, it loses its sparkle and throws a temper tantrum. Can the store's nervous assistant find her magic mojo and save the emporium? Watch to find out. Rated: G You can't go wrong with Shaun the Sheep and the LOL-worthy antics of his new farm friends. A masterclass in physical comedy that will have the whole family in stitches. Rated: G 🛌 Pre-bed prompt If your normal routine is thrown off, use these gentle shows to signal that it's time for some shut-eye A mesmerising collection of Indigenous lullabies showcasing the very best of First Nations musicians and artists through beautiful songs and stunning visuals. Guaranteed to soothe the kiddos. Rated: G A slow and soothing dream-like series, narrated by Dawn French, which follows friends MeMo and BaBa as they transition to sleep. Rated: G