Close Menu
  • Home
  • What’s On
    • Events
    • Add an Event
    • Major Event
    • School Holiday Guide
  • Things To Do
    • Free Activities
      • Coastal Activities
      • Outdoor Activities
      • Picnic Spots
      • Playgrounds
      • Pram Walks
      • Rainy Day Activities
      • Walks and Bike Rides
    • Places to Visit
      • Attractions
      • Day Trips Away From The Peninsula
      • Galleries & Libraries
      • Historical
      • Markets
      • Tourism Centres
    • Places to Eat
      • Cafes
      • Restaurants
      • Wineries
    • Places To Stay
      • Accommodation
    • Shopping
      • Baby Goods – Sale & Hire
      • Child Friendly Shops
      • Made on the Peninsula
      • Online
      • Retail
    • At Home
      • Craft
      • Games
      • Recipes
  • Classes & Groups
    • Creative
      • Art and Craft
    • Playgroups
      • Central and Northern Peninsula
      • Southern Peninsula
      • Western Port
    • Sports
      • Fitness
      • Pre School Sports
      • Sports Classes and Tuition
  • Services
    • Health & Wellbeing
      • Dental
      • Health Care Practitioners
      • Hospitals
      • Support Groups
    • Pregnancy & Baby
      • Prenatal
        • Pre Natal Care/Birth Support
        • Pre Natal Fitness & Wellbeing
        • Maternal Health Centres
        • Maternity Products
      • PostNatal
        • Maternal Health Centres
        • Post Natal Support & Wellbeing
    • Special Needs
      • Activities for Special Needs
      • Support for Special Needs
      • Therapists for Special Needs
    • Education & Childcare
      • Daycare
      • Kindergartens
      • Schools
    • Finance
      • Finance
    • Photography
      • Photography
    • Child Safety & Wellbeing
      • Child Safety/First Aid
      • Emergency Numbers
  • Articles
    • Education
    • Finances
    • Health
    • Parenting Articles
    • Places to Eat
    • Pregnancy & Baby
    • Reviews
    • Member Questions
  • Parties
    • Celebrate – Party Ideas
    • Entertainment
    • Suppliers
    • Venues
  • Giveaways
  • Advertise With Us
  • About Us
    • Contact Us
  • Testimonials
  • Giveaways
Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
Wednesday, August 6
  • Advertise With Us
  • About Us
    • Contact Us
  • Testimonials
  • Giveaways
Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram Pinterest
Peninsula Kids
  • Home
  • What’s On
    • Events
    • Add an Event
    • Major Event
    • School Holiday Guide
  • Things To Do
    • Free Activities
      • Coastal Activities
      • Outdoor Activities
      • Picnic Spots
      • Playgrounds
      • Pram Walks
      • Rainy Day Activities
      • Walks and Bike Rides
    • Places to Visit
      • Attractions
      • Day Trips Away From The Peninsula
      • Galleries & Libraries
      • Historical
      • Markets
      • Tourism Centres
    • Places to Eat
      • Cafes
      • Restaurants
      • Wineries
    • Places To Stay
      • Accommodation
    • Shopping
      • Baby Goods – Sale & Hire
      • Child Friendly Shops
      • Made on the Peninsula
      • Online
      • Retail
    • At Home
      • Craft
      • Games
      • Recipes
  • Classes & Groups
    • Creative
      • Art and Craft
    • Playgroups
      • Central and Northern Peninsula
      • Southern Peninsula
      • Western Port
    • Sports
      • Fitness
      • Pre School Sports
      • Sports Classes and Tuition
  • Services
    • Health & Wellbeing
      • Dental
      • Health Care Practitioners
      • Hospitals
      • Support Groups
    • Pregnancy & Baby
      • Prenatal
        • Pre Natal Care/Birth Support
        • Pre Natal Fitness & Wellbeing
        • Maternal Health Centres
        • Maternity Products
      • PostNatal
        • Maternal Health Centres
        • Post Natal Support & Wellbeing
    • Special Needs
      • Activities for Special Needs
      • Support for Special Needs
      • Therapists for Special Needs
    • Education & Childcare
      • Daycare
      • Kindergartens
      • Schools
    • Finance
      • Finance
    • Photography
      • Photography
    • Child Safety & Wellbeing
      • Child Safety/First Aid
      • Emergency Numbers
  • Articles
    • Education
    • Finances
    • Health
    • Parenting Articles
    • Places to Eat
    • Pregnancy & Baby
    • Reviews
    • Member Questions
  • Parties
    • Celebrate – Party Ideas
    • Entertainment
    • Suppliers
    • Venues
  • Giveaways
Peninsula Kids
Home»Spotlight»What I’ve learnt living with a bipolar mum
Spotlight

What I’ve learnt living with a bipolar mum

5 Mins Read
Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Email
Share
Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Email
By Erika Cramer

I grew up in the United States with my mum, who was a single parent. We lived on food stamps and when things were good, they were great. However, my mum suffered from bipolar disorder. When she stopped taking her medication she would become very unwell, with severe paranoia, anger and mania setting in. My earliest memory of her condition was when I was five years old. I was in a foster home at the time and I remember being picked up by a social worker and going to visit mum in a psychiatric unit at a mental health institution. I saw others there who were really sick, and found their behaviour distressing and unfamiliar; but I didn’t really understand why my mum was there, or why she wasn’t living with me at home.

Not a ‘normal’ mum

Bipolar disorder is associated with severe mood swings, ranging from depressive lows to manic highs. My mum would be tracking along OK, and then would go off her medication. It took about three days off her medication, before she would become a person I didn’t know. I would be sitting in the living room watching cartoons, and she would come into the room yelling and beating me up, to the point the neighbours would call the police. 

Another time, when I was still in kindergarten, she left our home naked and walked quite a distance before the police arrested her. She was really unwell at the time, but the kids at school heard about it and made fun of her. I would end up fighting lots in the playground defending her and spent a lot of time going in and out of detention. Because I didn’t really understand her condition, I simply thought I was in trouble a lot, and I was the reason I kept ending up in foster homes. 

I thought this was all pretty normal until I was eight years old. Then, I wished so badly for my mum to be like the other mums at school.

I could see how much she fought for me, how she always tried to get better and how she struggled. We didn’t have an extended family support network. I was the only person that she had, so I felt all her love and her pain. I learned how to look after her and myself when need be, but it took its toll.

Life in a foster home

At first, the foster homes were fun. It felt like I was on a perpetual sleepover, making new friends and going on a bit of a holiday.

Going to different schools made me outgoing and I learned how to become a people person. Then, when I was five, the sexual abuse started. This trauma stayed with me for a long time. As I grew older, it got harder. Seeing my mum dragged away broke my heart. I had a lot of anger towards the system – the police, the social workers, the nurses at the institution and the doctors who experimented with mum’s medication. I felt abandoned, helpless and incredibly sad, which manifested on the outside as a defensive, tough kid who could fight her way out of troubles. 

The effects of a life dragged up

Being in and out of different homes with no stability meant I lashed out a lot at others. I struggled to focus in school or take direction well in class so my grades suffered and I was always getting in to trouble for fighting. On a positive side, I was very social and made friends easily. My experiences helped me become someone who can easily build community, have compassion for others, and see the best in people that society has marginalised.

While my journey to become the person I am today is fraught with bumps in the road and, at times, total sideswipes (I broke my back at 23 in a car accident and had to learn to walk again, before being widowed at 24) I now consider my childhood and life as a young adult as my training. As a mum myself, I realise our parents are doing the best they can with what they know. 

What I know now

Often, when you’re suffering from a mental illness you have limited information on what’s happening to you. You’re unaware of your triggers and why these episodes happen. As a society, we desperately need to discuss mental ill health so much more, so we can strip the stigma away and support people better. Seeking help is critical, and the only way for everyone involved to heal, whatever the modality;  whether it’s counselling and talk therapy, or yoga, meditation or coaching. I think it’s also really important to remember that mental illness can be triggered through trauma and hardship. As hard as it can be, we need to remember that it isn’t easy for the person suffering either.

 Now, my mum is my best friend. I understand her and how her condition affects her. I have worked incredibly hard with professionals to shift my blame, fear and frustration from my childhood self, and embrace her for what she is – someone who didn’t have the tools to deal with the cards she was dealt. I now have two beautiful sons, and look at them and know they won’t be recipients of the intergenerational trauma that befell my mum and then me. I know better than anyone, that it’s never too late to rewrite your story. 


Erika Cramer, The Queen of Confidence, is an international confidence coach and popular 5-star podcast host. After surviving many traumatic experiences, Erika is a beaming and beautiful example of how you can heal your personal story to transform trauma into triumph.  She is also the author of the new book, Confidence Feels Like Sh!t.

Find out more about Erika at www.thequeenofconfidence.com

Peninsula Kids – Winter 2021

Share. Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Email
Leave A Reply Cancel Reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Calendar
Today
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
26
27
4:15 PM - Exploring Art For Kids
28
9:00 AM - Mornington Main Street Market
29
8:00 AM - Hastings Street Market
30
31
10:00 AM - KRYAL CASTLE CELEBRATES 50 YEARS
1
8:00 AM - Bittern Sunday Market
1:00 PM - AFLW - Hawthorn v Carlton
2
3
4:15 PM - Exploring Art For Kids
4
9:00 AM - Mornington Main Street Market
5
8:00 AM - Hastings Street Market
6
7
7:30 AM - Rye Foreshore Market
8
8:00 AM - Bittern Sunday Market
9:00 AM - Mornington Racecourse Market
9
10
4:15 PM - Exploring Art For Kids
11
9:00 AM - Mornington Main Street Market
12
8:00 AM - Hastings Street Market
13
14
7:00 AM - Rosebud Community School Market
9:00 AM - Crib Point Community Market
15
8:00 AM - Bittern Sunday Market
1:00 PM - Monthly Repair Workshop
16
17
4:15 PM - Exploring Art For Kids
18
9:00 AM - Mornington Main Street Market
19
8:00 AM - Hastings Street Market
20
21
+
12:00 AM - Meet Mateo and join a DreamZzz-tastic adventure! School holiday fun at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Melbourne
12:00 AM - Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
8:00 AM - Boneo Community Market
more...
22
12:00 AM - Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
8:00 AM - Bittern Sunday Market
9:00 AM - Mount Eliza Farmers' Market
23
12:00 AM - Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
24
12:00 AM - Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
4:15 PM - Exploring Art For Kids
25
12:00 AM - Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
9:00 AM - Mornington Main Street Market
26
12:00 AM - Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
8:00 AM - Hastings Street Market
27
12:00 AM - Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
28
12:00 AM - Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
8:00 AM - Dromana Community Market
29
12:00 AM - Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
8:00 AM - Bittern Sunday Market
30
12:00 AM - Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
11:00 AM - 3 Happy Tricks with Martin Heppell
1
12:00 AM - Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
4:15 PM - Exploring Art For Kids
2
+
12:00 AM - Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
12:00 AM - Kids Eat Free at T’Gallant
9:00 AM - Mornington Main Street Market
more...
3
12:00 AM - Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
8:00 AM - Hastings Street Market
4
12:00 AM - Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
5
12:00 AM - Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
7:30 AM - Rye Foreshore Market
6
12:00 AM - Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
8:00 AM - Bittern Sunday Market
Exploring Art For Kids
Exploring Art For Kids
August 27, 2024    
4:15 pm - 6:30 pm
Somerville Community House
  • Workshop/Class
Learn different art techniques, build confidence & have fun in a supportive, accessible space with our talented art teacher, Joy.    Class 1: 4.15pm-5.15pm Class [...]
More Info
Mornington Main Street Market
Mornington Main Street Market
August 28, 2024    
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Main Street Mornington
  • Markets
Every Wednesday Main Street comes alive with market stalls featuring local craft and produce. www.morningtonchamber.com.au/market-day *Peninsula Kids holds no responsibility for last minute changes/cancellations to [...]
More Info
Hastings Street Market
29 Aug
August 29, 2024    
8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Hastings Street Market
  • Markets
Every Thursday from 8am - 4pm in High Street, Hastings. mornpen.vic.gov.au/Activities/Whats-On/Markets/Markets-List#section-7 *Peninsula Kids holds no responsibility for last minute changes/cancellations to events listed on this [...]
More Info
KRYAL CASTLE CELEBRATES 50 YEARS
31 Aug
August 31, 2024 - September 1, 2024    
10:00 am - 7:00 pm
Kryal Castle
  • Family Activity
Australia’s only medieval adventure park, Kryal Castle, will celebrate 50 years of bringing history to life with a thrilling birthday bash that includes a lucrative [...]
More Info
Bittern Sunday Market
01 Sep
September 1, 2024    
8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Bittern Railway Station
  • Markets
Bittern Sunday Market is a Community Market run by Volunteers with the purpose to raise funds to support local groups/activities. All money raised will go [...]
More Info
AFLW - Hawthorn v Carlton
AFLW - Hawthorn v Carlton
September 1, 2024    
1:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Kinetic Stadium
  • Family Activity
Kids FREE! Tickets only $15 for Adults. Enjoy footy, live music, food trucks and fun for everyone! Don't miss the first-ever clash between Hawks and [...]
More Info
Exploring Art For Kids
Exploring Art For Kids
September 3, 2024    
4:15 pm - 6:30 pm
Somerville Community House
  • Workshop/Class
Learn different art techniques, build confidence & have fun in a supportive, accessible space with our talented art teacher, Joy.    Class 1: 4.15pm-5.15pm Class [...]
More Info
Mornington Main Street Market
Mornington Main Street Market
September 4, 2024    
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Main Street Mornington
  • Markets
Every Wednesday Main Street comes alive with market stalls featuring local craft and produce. www.morningtonchamber.com.au/market-day *Peninsula Kids holds no responsibility for last minute changes/cancellations to [...]
More Info
Hastings Street Market
05 Sep
September 5, 2024    
8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Hastings Street Market
  • Markets
Every Thursday from 8am - 4pm in High Street, Hastings. mornpen.vic.gov.au/Activities/Whats-On/Markets/Markets-List#section-7 *Peninsula Kids holds no responsibility for last minute changes/cancellations to events listed on this [...]
More Info
Rye Foreshore Market
07 Sep
September 7, 2024    
7:30 am - 1:00 pm
Rye Foreshore
  • Markets
First Saturday of the month. The Rye Rotary Market is a well known open air market with craft, plants, vegies and gift ideas for the whole [...]
More Info
Bittern Sunday Market
08 Sep
September 8, 2024    
8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Bittern Railway Station
  • Markets
Bittern Sunday Market is a Community Market run by Volunteers with the purpose to raise funds to support local groups/activities. All money raised will go [...]
More Info
Mornington Racecourse Market
Mornington Racecourse Market
September 8, 2024    
9:00 am - 2:00 pm
Mornington Racecourse
  • Markets
Mornington Racecourse Market runs all year round, on the second Sunday of the month. A regular meeting place for locals and visitors this market showcases [...]
More Info
Exploring Art For Kids
Exploring Art For Kids
September 10, 2024    
4:15 pm - 6:30 pm
Somerville Community House
  • Workshop/Class
Learn different art techniques, build confidence & have fun in a supportive, accessible space with our talented art teacher, Joy.    Class 1: 4.15pm-5.15pm Class [...]
More Info
Mornington Main Street Market
Mornington Main Street Market
September 11, 2024    
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Main Street Mornington
  • Markets
Every Wednesday Main Street comes alive with market stalls featuring local craft and produce. www.morningtonchamber.com.au/market-day *Peninsula Kids holds no responsibility for last minute changes/cancellations to [...]
More Info
Hastings Street Market
12 Sep
September 12, 2024    
8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Hastings Street Market
  • Markets
Every Thursday from 8am - 4pm in High Street, Hastings. mornpen.vic.gov.au/Activities/Whats-On/Markets/Markets-List#section-7 *Peninsula Kids holds no responsibility for last minute changes/cancellations to events listed on this [...]
More Info
Rosebud Community School Market
14 Sep
September 14, 2024    
7:00 am - 2:00 pm
Rosebud Foreshore
  • Markets
Rosebud Community School Market open on the 2nd Saturday of every month - all year round! Find us on our new site - Nepean Hwy [...]
More Info
Crib Point Community Market
14 Sep
September 14, 2024    
9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Crib Point Recreation Reserve
  • Markets
9am to 1pm on 2nd Saturday of every month INDOOR & OUTDOOR STALLS Jewellery, cards, bags, craft, bric-a-brac, candles, eggs, fretwork gifts, soaps, plants, coffee van, [...]
More Info
Bittern Sunday Market
15 Sep
September 15, 2024    
8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Bittern Railway Station
  • Markets
Bittern Sunday Market is a Community Market run by Volunteers with the purpose to raise funds to support local groups/activities. All money raised will go [...]
More Info
Monthly Repair Workshop
15 Sep
September 15, 2024 - September 16, 2024    
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Hastings Community Hub
  • Free Activities
Family Friendly Community Group Event happening monthly with skilled volunteers helping people repair items they bring from home for reuse. Saving them from going to [...]
More Info
Exploring Art For Kids
Exploring Art For Kids
September 17, 2024    
4:15 pm - 6:30 pm
Somerville Community House
  • Workshop/Class
Learn different art techniques, build confidence & have fun in a supportive, accessible space with our talented art teacher, Joy.    Class 1: 4.15pm-5.15pm Class [...]
More Info
Mornington Main Street Market
Mornington Main Street Market
September 18, 2024    
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Main Street Mornington
  • Markets
Every Wednesday Main Street comes alive with market stalls featuring local craft and produce. www.morningtonchamber.com.au/market-day *Peninsula Kids holds no responsibility for last minute changes/cancellations to [...]
More Info
Hastings Street Market
19 Sep
September 19, 2024    
8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Hastings Street Market
  • Markets
Every Thursday from 8am - 4pm in High Street, Hastings. mornpen.vic.gov.au/Activities/Whats-On/Markets/Markets-List#section-7 *Peninsula Kids holds no responsibility for last minute changes/cancellations to events listed on this [...]
More Info
Meet Mateo and join a DreamZzz-tastic adventure! School holiday fun at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Melbourne
21 Sep
September 21, 2024    
All Day
LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Melbourne
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
Attention all aspiring Night Agents! LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Melbourne is transforming into the ultimate LEGO® DREAMZzz™ universe and is the only place in Australia where [...]
More Info
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
21 Sep
September 21, 2024 - October 6, 2024    
All Day
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is calling all seahorse enthusiasts to join an underwater adventure over the school holidays. From 21 September to 6 October, families [...]
More Info
Boneo Community Market
21 Sep
September 21, 2024    
8:00 am - 12:30 pm
Boneo Community Market
  • Markets
Third Saturday of the month from 8am - 12.30pm. https://www.facebook.com/BoneoCommunityMarket/timeline *Peninsula Kids holds no responsibility for last minute changes/cancellations to events listed on this website.
More Info
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
22 Sep
September 22, 2024 - October 7, 2024    
All Day
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is calling all seahorse enthusiasts to join an underwater adventure over the school holidays. From 21 September to 6 October, families [...]
More Info
Bittern Sunday Market
22 Sep
September 22, 2024    
8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Bittern Railway Station
  • Markets
Bittern Sunday Market is a Community Market run by Volunteers with the purpose to raise funds to support local groups/activities. All money raised will go [...]
More Info
Mount Eliza Farmers' Market
22 Sep
September 22, 2024    
9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Mount Eliza Village Green
  • Markets
Mt Eliza Farmers’ Market plays host to authentic growers and producers from the Mornington Peninsula and Regional Victoria alike. Come and meander through the picturesque [...]
More Info
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
23 Sep
September 23, 2024 - October 8, 2024    
All Day
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is calling all seahorse enthusiasts to join an underwater adventure over the school holidays. From 21 September to 6 October, families [...]
More Info
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
24 Sep
September 24, 2024 - October 9, 2024    
All Day
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is calling all seahorse enthusiasts to join an underwater adventure over the school holidays. From 21 September to 6 October, families [...]
More Info
Exploring Art For Kids
Exploring Art For Kids
September 24, 2024    
4:15 pm - 6:30 pm
Somerville Community House
  • Workshop/Class
Learn different art techniques, build confidence & have fun in a supportive, accessible space with our talented art teacher, Joy.    Class 1: 4.15pm-5.15pm Class [...]
More Info
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
25 Sep
September 25, 2024 - October 10, 2024    
All Day
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is calling all seahorse enthusiasts to join an underwater adventure over the school holidays. From 21 September to 6 October, families [...]
More Info
Mornington Main Street Market
Mornington Main Street Market
September 25, 2024    
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Main Street Mornington
  • Markets
Every Wednesday Main Street comes alive with market stalls featuring local craft and produce. www.morningtonchamber.com.au/market-day *Peninsula Kids holds no responsibility for last minute changes/cancellations to [...]
More Info
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
26 Sep
September 26, 2024 - October 11, 2024    
All Day
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is calling all seahorse enthusiasts to join an underwater adventure over the school holidays. From 21 September to 6 October, families [...]
More Info
Hastings Street Market
26 Sep
September 26, 2024    
8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Hastings Street Market
  • Markets
Every Thursday from 8am - 4pm in High Street, Hastings. mornpen.vic.gov.au/Activities/Whats-On/Markets/Markets-List#section-7 *Peninsula Kids holds no responsibility for last minute changes/cancellations to events listed on this [...]
More Info
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
27 Sep
September 27, 2024 - October 12, 2024    
All Day
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is calling all seahorse enthusiasts to join an underwater adventure over the school holidays. From 21 September to 6 October, families [...]
More Info
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
28 Sep
September 28, 2024 - October 13, 2024    
All Day
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is calling all seahorse enthusiasts to join an underwater adventure over the school holidays. From 21 September to 6 October, families [...]
More Info
Dromana Community Market
28 Sep
September 28, 2024    
8:00 am - 1:30 pm
Dromana Community Park
  • Markets
The Dromana Community Market aims to provide growers, producers and merchants a unique outlet to sell direct to the public while promoting the benefits of [...]
More Info
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
29 Sep
September 29, 2024 - October 14, 2024    
All Day
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is calling all seahorse enthusiasts to join an underwater adventure over the school holidays. From 21 September to 6 October, families [...]
More Info
Bittern Sunday Market
29 Sep
September 29, 2024    
8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Bittern Railway Station
  • Markets
Bittern Sunday Market is a Community Market run by Volunteers with the purpose to raise funds to support local groups/activities. All money raised will go [...]
More Info
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
30 Sep
September 30, 2024 - October 15, 2024    
All Day
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is calling all seahorse enthusiasts to join an underwater adventure over the school holidays. From 21 September to 6 October, families [...]
More Info
3 Happy Tricks with Martin Heppell
3 Happy Tricks with Martin Heppell
September 30, 2024    
11:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
THE RESILIENCE PROJECT is tackling children’s mental health with the return of 3 Happy Tricks, the kids show tour with Martin Heppell that teaches primary-aged [...]
More Info
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
01 Oct
October 1, 2024 - October 16, 2024    
All Day
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is calling all seahorse enthusiasts to join an underwater adventure over the school holidays. From 21 September to 6 October, families [...]
More Info
Exploring Art For Kids
Exploring Art For Kids
October 1, 2024    
4:15 pm - 6:30 pm
Somerville Community House
  • Workshop/Class
Learn different art techniques, build confidence & have fun in a supportive, accessible space with our talented art teacher, Joy.    Class 1: 4.15pm-5.15pm Class [...]
More Info
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
02 Oct
October 2, 2024 - October 17, 2024    
All Day
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is calling all seahorse enthusiasts to join an underwater adventure over the school holidays. From 21 September to 6 October, families [...]
More Info
Kids Eat Free at T’Gallant
Kids Eat Free at T’Gallant
October 2, 2024 - October 3, 2024    
12:00 am
Book now www.tgallantvineyard.com.au
More Info
Mornington Main Street Market
Mornington Main Street Market
October 2, 2024    
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Main Street Mornington
  • Markets
Every Wednesday Main Street comes alive with market stalls featuring local craft and produce. www.morningtonchamber.com.au/market-day *Peninsula Kids holds no responsibility for last minute changes/cancellations to [...]
More Info
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
03 Oct
October 3, 2024 - October 18, 2024    
All Day
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is calling all seahorse enthusiasts to join an underwater adventure over the school holidays. From 21 September to 6 October, families [...]
More Info
Hastings Street Market
03 Oct
October 3, 2024    
8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Hastings Street Market
  • Markets
Every Thursday from 8am - 4pm in High Street, Hastings. mornpen.vic.gov.au/Activities/Whats-On/Markets/Markets-List#section-7 *Peninsula Kids holds no responsibility for last minute changes/cancellations to events listed on this [...]
More Info
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
04 Oct
October 4, 2024 - October 19, 2024    
All Day
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is calling all seahorse enthusiasts to join an underwater adventure over the school holidays. From 21 September to 6 October, families [...]
More Info
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
05 Oct
October 5, 2024 - October 20, 2024    
All Day
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is calling all seahorse enthusiasts to join an underwater adventure over the school holidays. From 21 September to 6 October, families [...]
More Info
Rye Foreshore Market
05 Oct
October 5, 2024    
7:30 am - 1:00 pm
Rye Foreshore
  • Markets
First Saturday of the month. The Rye Rotary Market is a well known open air market with craft, plants, vegies and gift ideas for the whole [...]
More Info
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
06 Oct
October 6, 2024 - October 21, 2024    
All Day
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium
  • Family Activity
  • School Holidays
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is calling all seahorse enthusiasts to join an underwater adventure over the school holidays. From 21 September to 6 October, families [...]
More Info
Bittern Sunday Market
06 Oct
October 6, 2024    
8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Bittern Railway Station
  • Markets
Bittern Sunday Market is a Community Market run by Volunteers with the purpose to raise funds to support local groups/activities. All money raised will go [...]
More Info
Events on August 27, 2024
Exploring Art For Kids
Exploring Art For Kids
27 Aug 24
Somerville
Events on August 28, 2024
Mornington Main Street Market
Mornington Main Street Market
28 Aug 24
Mornington
Events on August 29, 2024
29 Aug
Hastings Street Market
29 Aug 24
Hastings
Events on August 31, 2024
31 Aug
KRYAL CASTLE CELEBRATES 50 YEARS
31 Aug 24
Leigh Creek
Events on September 1, 2024
01 Sep
Bittern Sunday Market
1 Sep 24
Bittern
AFLW - Hawthorn v Carlton
AFLW - Hawthorn v Carlton
1 Sep 24
Frankston
Events on September 3, 2024
Exploring Art For Kids
Exploring Art For Kids
3 Sep 24
Somerville
Events on September 4, 2024
Mornington Main Street Market
Mornington Main Street Market
4 Sep 24
Mornington
Events on September 5, 2024
05 Sep
Hastings Street Market
5 Sep 24
Hastings
Events on September 7, 2024
07 Sep
Rye Foreshore Market
7 Sep 24
Rye
Events on September 8, 2024
08 Sep
Bittern Sunday Market
8 Sep 24
Bittern
Mornington Racecourse Market
Mornington Racecourse Market
8 Sep 24
Mornington
Events on September 10, 2024
Exploring Art For Kids
Exploring Art For Kids
10 Sep 24
Somerville
Events on September 11, 2024
Mornington Main Street Market
Mornington Main Street Market
11 Sep 24
Mornington
Events on September 12, 2024
12 Sep
Hastings Street Market
12 Sep 24
Hastings
Events on September 14, 2024
14 Sep
Rosebud Community School Market
14 Sep 24
Rosebud
14 Sep
Crib Point Community Market
14 Sep 24
Crib Point
Events on September 15, 2024
15 Sep
Bittern Sunday Market
15 Sep 24
Bittern
15 Sep
Monthly Repair Workshop
15 Sep 24
HASTINGS
Events on September 17, 2024
Exploring Art For Kids
Exploring Art For Kids
17 Sep 24
Somerville
Events on September 18, 2024
Mornington Main Street Market
Mornington Main Street Market
18 Sep 24
Mornington
Events on September 19, 2024
19 Sep
Hastings Street Market
19 Sep 24
Hastings
Events on September 21, 2024
21 Sep
Meet Mateo and join a DreamZzz-tastic adventure! School holiday fun at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Melbourne
21 Sep 24
Chadstone
21 Sep
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
21 Sep 24
Melbourne
21 Sep
Boneo Community Market
21 Sep 24
Boneo
more...
Events on September 22, 2024
22 Sep
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
22 Sep 24
Melbourne
22 Sep
Bittern Sunday Market
22 Sep 24
Bittern
22 Sep
Mount Eliza Farmers' Market
22 Sep 24
Mt Eliza
Events on September 23, 2024
23 Sep
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
23 Sep 24
Melbourne
Events on September 24, 2024
24 Sep
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
24 Sep 24
Melbourne
Exploring Art For Kids
Exploring Art For Kids
24 Sep 24
Somerville
Events on September 25, 2024
25 Sep
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
25 Sep 24
Melbourne
Mornington Main Street Market
Mornington Main Street Market
25 Sep 24
Mornington
Events on September 26, 2024
26 Sep
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
26 Sep 24
Melbourne
26 Sep
Hastings Street Market
26 Sep 24
Hastings
Events on September 27, 2024
27 Sep
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
27 Sep 24
Melbourne
Events on September 28, 2024
28 Sep
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
28 Sep 24
Melbourne
28 Sep
Dromana Community Market
28 Sep 24
Dromana
Events on September 29, 2024
29 Sep
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
29 Sep 24
Melbourne
29 Sep
Bittern Sunday Market
29 Sep 24
Bittern
Events on September 30, 2024
30 Sep
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
30 Sep 24
Melbourne
3 Happy Tricks with Martin Heppell
3 Happy Tricks with Martin Heppell
30 Sep 24
Events on October 1, 2024
01 Oct
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
1 Oct 24
Melbourne
Exploring Art For Kids
Exploring Art For Kids
1 Oct 24
Somerville
Events on October 2, 2024
02 Oct
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
2 Oct 24
Melbourne
Kids Eat Free at T’Gallant
Kids Eat Free at T’Gallant
2 Oct 24
Mornington Main Street Market
Mornington Main Street Market
2 Oct 24
Mornington
more...
Events on October 3, 2024
03 Oct
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
3 Oct 24
Melbourne
03 Oct
Hastings Street Market
3 Oct 24
Hastings
Events on October 4, 2024
04 Oct
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
4 Oct 24
Melbourne
Events on October 5, 2024
05 Oct
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
5 Oct 24
Melbourne
05 Oct
Rye Foreshore Market
5 Oct 24
Rye
Events on October 6, 2024
06 Oct
Dive into SEA LIFE Melbourne and discover the magic of Seahorses Explore, learn, and protect this spring!
6 Oct 24
Melbourne
06 Oct
Bittern Sunday Market
6 Oct 24
Bittern
Visit Our Advertisers
ABOUT

Established in 2006, Mornington Peninsula News Group (MPNG) is a locally owned and operated, independent media company.

MPNG publishes two glossy magazines: Peninsula Essence and Peninsula Kids.

MPNG also publishes five weekly community newspapers: the Western Port News, Mornington News, Southern Peninsula News, Frankston Times and Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News.

ADVERTISE WITH US

Instagram
Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s Jams for Juniors comes to McClelland. Join Karen Kyriakou and MSO musicians for joyful music-making with little ones aged 0–5. Two fun-filled sessions on 6 Aug & 3 Sept. 
Tickets required for all. Book now.

https://mcclelland.org.au/events/mso-presents-jam-for-juniors-at-mcclelland

@mcclellandgallery McClelland Sculpture Park+Gallery 
#jamsforjuniors #mso
•
Follow
Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s Jams for Juniors comes to McClelland. Join Karen Kyriakou and MSO musicians for joyful music-making with little ones aged 0–5. Two fun-filled sessions on 6 Aug & 3 Sept. Tickets required for all. Book now. https://mcclelland.org.au/events/mso-presents-jam-for-juniors-at-mcclelland @mcclellandgallery McClelland Sculpture Park+Gallery #jamsforjuniors #mso
6 days ago
View on Instagram |
1/9
…asking for a friend. 
👍 up high
❤️ down low
•
Follow
…asking for a friend. 👍 up high ❤️ down low
7 days ago
View on Instagram |
2/9
No Food Shaming.

If you grew up in the ‘80s, ‘90s, or early 2000’s, chances are you were taught to see food through a moral lens: veggies were “good,” chocolate was “bad,” and fat was something to fear. That messaging stuck.

So now, when you reach for a bag of chips after a long day or say yes to dessert, a quiet voice in the back of your mind is likely to whisper: “You shouldn’t.” You feel like you’ve done something wrong – simply for eating something you enjoy. And here’s the thing: our kids are watching. They’re listening. The way we talk about food becomes the way they relate to it.

If you want to raise confident eaters, it’s time to let go of the “good” vs “bad” food narrative and allow your kids to enjoy food without guilt or shame. Let’s be real; some foods are more nutrient-dense than others. But that doesn’t mean that we need to rank them on a scale. Instead of calling food “good” or “bad”, try talking about how it fits into the bigger picture of what our bodies need. 

Read on for a few ways to reframe the conversation:
https://peninsulakids.com.au/no-food-shaming

@nourishwithkarina Nourish with Karina 

#nofoodshaming
•
Follow
No Food Shaming. If you grew up in the ‘80s, ‘90s, or early 2000’s, chances are you were taught to see food through a moral lens: veggies were “good,” chocolate was “bad,” and fat was something to fear. That messaging stuck. So now, when you reach for a bag of chips after a long day or say yes to dessert, a quiet voice in the back of your mind is likely to whisper: “You shouldn’t.” You feel like you’ve done something wrong – simply for eating something you enjoy. And here’s the thing: our kids are watching. They’re listening. The way we talk about food becomes the way they relate to it. If you want to raise confident eaters, it’s time to let go of the “good” vs “bad” food narrative and allow your kids to enjoy food without guilt or shame. Let’s be real; some foods are more nutrient-dense than others. But that doesn’t mean that we need to rank them on a scale. Instead of calling food “good” or “bad”, try talking about how it fits into the bigger picture of what our bodies need. Read on for a few ways to reframe the conversation: https://peninsulakids.com.au/no-food-shaming @nourishwithkarina Nourish with Karina #nofoodshaming
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
3/9
🤪#bloodyrightitis #strangerthings
•
Follow
🤪#bloodyrightitis #strangerthings
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
4/9
Monday night funny. 
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣lol

#thepenthouse #foodhierarchy
•
Follow
Monday night funny. 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣lol #thepenthouse #foodhierarchy
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
5/9
#spiritanimal
•
Follow
#spiritanimal
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
6/9
Take my 13-year-old's money.

#moneyburningahole #theyllbuyanything #spendspendspend
•
Follow
Take my 13-year-old's money. #moneyburningahole #theyllbuyanything #spendspendspend
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
7/9
AT 94 years old, Frank Brown is living proof that creativity knows no age. A beloved gem to the community of Hastings, Frank has become an unlikely celebrity at FiRST Early Learning Hastings thanks to his handcrafted dioramas. 

Read the full story using the link:
https://www.mpnews.com.au/2025/07/22/94-year-old-brings-tiny-world-magic-to-kids

#morningtonpeninsula #hastings #localcelebrity 
@firstearlylearning FiRST Early Learning 
Photo: Gary Sissons
•
Follow
AT 94 years old, Frank Brown is living proof that creativity knows no age. A beloved gem to the community of Hastings, Frank has become an unlikely celebrity at FiRST Early Learning Hastings thanks to his handcrafted dioramas. Read the full story using the link: https://www.mpnews.com.au/2025/07/22/94-year-old-brings-tiny-world-magic-to-kids #morningtonpeninsula #hastings #localcelebrity @firstearlylearning FiRST Early Learning Photo: Gary Sissons
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
8/9
The Myth of the Perfect Parent
Somewhere along the way, we’ve been sold this idea that good parenting means never messing up. That if we just try hard enough, read the right books, and avoid raising our voices, we’ll somehow unlock the secret to raising perfectly adjusted children. But here’s the truth which I finally accepted: there is no perfect way to parent. There are only good days and bad days. There are moments when you handle things beautifully and moments when you yell something ridiculous like, “WHY ARE YOUR SHOES IN THE FRIDGE?” There are times when you feel like a hero and times when you feel like a complete failure. And that’s okay.

https://peninsulakids.com.au/mumming-the-art-of-failing-and-why-thats-totally-fine/

@drunkmummysobermummy
•
Follow
The Myth of the Perfect Parent Somewhere along the way, we’ve been sold this idea that good parenting means never messing up. That if we just try hard enough, read the right books, and avoid raising our voices, we’ll somehow unlock the secret to raising perfectly adjusted children. But here’s the truth which I finally accepted: there is no perfect way to parent. There are only good days and bad days. There are moments when you handle things beautifully and moments when you yell something ridiculous like, “WHY ARE YOUR SHOES IN THE FRIDGE?” There are times when you feel like a hero and times when you feel like a complete failure. And that’s okay. https://peninsulakids.com.au/mumming-the-art-of-failing-and-why-thats-totally-fine/ @drunkmummysobermummy
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
9/9
View on Instagram
Subscribe to our Newsletter

Stay In The Know

Sign up to our free newsletter and receive weekly updates on events and things to do with kids on the Mornington Peninsula.

Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram Pinterest
© 2025 All Rights Reserved.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.