School's back....is there a little time for you?

School and preschool are officially back and maybe this is an opportunity to take some time to try and new class or activity. There's plenty on offer, but here are our top ten suggestions (in no particular order):

Many of us long to explore our creative side, often in a non-competitive environment. The Beaumaris Art Group is a bit of a local institution. Established in 1953 it has a long and proud history of supporting artists and artistic traditions in the area. They also have another of their wonderful twilight artists' markets planned for March. Classes in paining, pottery, drawing, multimedia and much more. The Group is still working on a website but can be found behind the Community Centre in Reserve Road, Beaumaris (just past the tennis courts).

If craft or sewing is more your thing, take a look at the classes offered this term at Brighton Rec Centre. www.brightonrec.com.au

Like to read and would enjoy talking about it with others? What about joining a book club. Start your own or tap into an existing one. Beaumaris Books works with many book clubs. www.beaumarisbooks.com.au

Fancy yourself as a writer? Why not write a piece for us. We're always on the lookout for people wanting to contribute interesting pieces about aspects of parenting or life in Bayside. Just email us at: baysidemama@gmail.com

If you prefer to get a little bit more active, have you thought about taking to the sea. Ocean Kayaking Australia runs kayak hire off Elwood beach, and other points and is currently offering Baysidemama readers a special hire deal. See the article below. Or if sailing is more your thing, think about taking an adult sailing class at Black Rock or Sandringham sailing clubs.

If you'd like to get involved in local conservation and perhaps participate in a foreshore working bee, become a member of the Beaumaris Conservation Society: www.beaumarisconservation.net/

Getting fit is always on the top of New Year's resolutions. Many local gyms have childcare facilities, including Re-Creation in Tulip Street - www.re-creation.com.au - and Fitness First in Bay Road - www.fitnessfirst.com.au

If you're planning on going back to work but need some retraining, there are lots of short courses around. Try Sandy Beach Community Centre: www.sandybeach.org.au

There are plenty of great cooking classes around but these ones are meant to be fabulous and book out fast. Kuche Food: www.kuche.com.au