Australian Open’s new kids club an ace idea for parents

Tennis-loving parents will be able to kick back and enjoy next month’s Australian Open in peace with other adults as courtside childminding services get served up at the Melbourne major event.

Tennis-loving parents will be able to drop off their kids and enjoy watching stars of the court in peace at next month’s Australian Open.

In a first at a Grand Slam tennis event, courtside childminding services will be served up in Melbourne.

Parents will even be able to pay for their children to have a tennis lesson or take a cooking class while they enjoy the ­action at Melbourne Park.

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Australian Open director Craig Tiley. Picture: Getty Images

The Australian Open kids’ club will be announced by Tennis Australia on Saturday, with spots available for up to 100 boys and girls aged 5-12 for every session of the January 14-27 tournament.

Australian Open director Craig Tiley said it would make it more accessible for families.

“We’ve worked extremely hard over the past few years to make the Australian Open one of the most family-friendly events in world sport, and I’m delighted we can now offer this tremendous new childcare program,” he said.

“Making the Australian Open, and indeed tennis, as ­accessible as possible to people of all ages is a priority,” Mr Tiley added.

Kids cool off at the 2018 Australian Open at Melbourne Park. Picture: Alex Coppel

The childcare program will be run by qualified teachers, and will feature half and full-day games and activities, to ­include a magic show, robotics playground, circus acts, a ninja warrior course and coaching by qualified tennis experts.

“The AO Kids Club will give young children a great tennis experience which will help us achieve our goal of growing the sport,” Mr Tiley said.

Australian Open childcare, starting at $55, must be booked in advance. See full details at ticketek.com.au/kidsclub

Bookings must be made in advance.

The Australian Open runs from January 14-27.

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Originally published as Australian Open’s new kids club an ace idea for parents