Each year, Australia sets aside the last Sunday of October to recognise grandparents and the important place they hold in children’s lives. This year, we marked the occasion at our Norlane service by inviting grandparents to spend an afternoon with us, and our yard was full of the people who have helped raise and love our children from the very beginning.
Watch the Video
Here is a short look at the afternoon, filmed at Montessori Minds in Norlane, Geelong.
Grandparents Day at Montessori Minds, Norlane, Geelong (October 2026).
How We Spent the Afternoon
- Time together in the rooms. Grandparents sat alongside their grandchildren to share in activities in each room, with educators nearby to support. For many children, this was a chance to show a loved one the materials and spaces they use every day.
- Children’s performances. Children performed for their visitors, sharing songs and movement they had been practising, each at their own comfort level.
- Afternoon snacks outdoors. To finish, families gathered on our verandah and in the yard for a glass of drinks, fruits and something sweet together.
Every child experiences days like this a little differently. Some children were keen to lead the way and show off their work, while others preferred to stay close and watch. Our educators followed each child’s cues, so that the afternoon felt comfortable and enjoyable for them.
Why Grandparents Matter in Early Learning
Grandparents often share family stories, languages, cultural traditions and everyday skills that help children understand who they are and where they come from. The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF v2.0) recognises families as children’s first and most influential educators, and that a strong sense of identity and connection to community are important parts of children’s learning and wellbeing.
Events like Grandparents Day are one way we work in partnership with families, which is a key focus of the National Quality Standard (Quality Area 6: Collaborative partnerships with families and communities). They sit alongside the everyday conversations, updates and relationships that happen at drop-off, pick-up and throughout the year.
A Day for Every Family
We know families come in many shapes. For some children, a grandparent may live far away, overseas, or may no longer be with us. For others, a great-grandparent, aunty, uncle, family friend, or Elder plays that special role. Everyone who is important to a child is welcome at our family events, and educators gently support any child who may find the day tender.
If your family would like to share a story, recipe, song, or tradition with your child’s room at another time, please speak with your room leader. We value these contributions throughout the year, not just on special days.
Photo Highlights
You can view photos from the afternoon in the gallery below. Images are shared with family consent. If you would like any photo of your family removed, please contact us, and we will take it down promptly.
Thinking About Montessori Minds for Your Family?
If you are looking at childcare or kindergarten options in Norlane or the wider Geelong area, you are welcome to visit, meet our educators, and see our rooms for yourself. You can learn more about our philosophy, read about Montessori education, or book a tour.
Thank you again to all our grandparents and families for spending the afternoon with us. We look forward to welcoming you back soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Grandparents Day in Australia?
In Australia, Grandparents Day is generally observed on the last Sunday of October. It is not a public holiday. Many early learning services and schools hold their own celebration on a weekday close to that date.
Who can attend Grandparents Day at Montessori Minds?
Grandparents, great-grandparents and other special people in a child’s life are welcome. If you are unsure whether someone can attend, please check with the centre. All visitors follow our usual sign-in and child safety procedures.
How are photos and videos from events shared?
We only share images in line with each family’s photo and media consent, and in line with our child safety and E-safety policies. Families can update their consent or ask for an image to be removed at any time.