Quantcast
Channel: Cheekiemonkies: Singapore Parenting & Lifestyle Blog
Viewing all 1296 articles
Browse latest View live

Vertical Playgrounds in Singapore: The Complete List (with Maps!)

$
0
0

It all started with the one at Cambridge Estate. Since then, the monkies and I have it our mission to suss out every single Vertical Playground in Singapore.


Encased in a three-storey high metal grid cage, the Vertical Playground - also known as the Wallholla - is made up of undulating ribbon-like layers. The play structure is suitable for children aged five to 12, and big enough to hold 30 children at once. It encourages kids to climb, hang, swing, slide, run, jump, hide and pretty much come up with ingenious ways to play compared to any other playing equipment. You can read more about our experience HERE.

Personally, I love the ingenuity of its design, which embodies the the spirit of creative play and allows kids to play with the same equipment in varying ways. A fantastic gem, definitely!


Currently, there are  15 Vertical Playgrounds in Singapore with a further 2 each in Vietnam and Malaysia. However, out of the 15 built here, 4 are located within condominiums and private schools - Parc Olympia, Corals & Keppel Bay, Tanglin Trust School and Dover Court Preparatory School - while a further 3 are still undergoing construction at various parks. 

This leaves the remaining 8 Wallhollas which are open to public - and enough to get the kiddos all excited and drive them up the wall! 

And here they are:

1. Wallholla @ Choa Chu Kang Ave 1
Address: 815C Choa Chu Kang Ave 1, Singapore 683815


Situated beside a cluster of new HDB flats in Choa Chu Kang, this Vertical Playground looks entirely different from the rest of the other public ones. While the rest are encased in see-through grills, this new playground is covered with grey metal meshing and sports a colour different from the usual orange.


Internally, the structure is slightly different too. One would have to climb up the climbing holds to reach the upper levels as the lower levels will only bring one to the mid-level slide.

And if you are eagle-eyed enough to spot something interesting in the first photo, you will know that this playground has another cool play structure as its neighbour.


A gigantic tank for kids to play and climb on!

The tank has rope nettings within to encourage even more climbing and scurrying, something which I think my monkies will relish!


MAP

2. Wallholla @ Carpmael Park
Address: Along Carpmael Road and Ceylon Road (Joo Chiat)


The East gets a Vertical Playground too - and it is a blue one! Located in the Joo Chiat vicinity, Carpmael Park is a cosy green space with a children's play area and outdoor exercise equipment.


MAP

3. Wallholla @ Bishan St 13
Address: 158 Bishan St 13, Singapore 570514


Besides the orange Wallholla, there are two other climbing structures for kids to totally expend their energy here.


One is shaped like a huge barrel while the other comes in the form of a tall net tower and comes attached with a slide.


MAP

4. Wallholla @ Ang Mo Kio Ave 2
Address: Along Jalan Mengkudu, and Ang Mo Kio Ave 2


Another set-up is located along Jalan Mengkudu and Ang Mo Kio Ave 2.

MAP

5. Wallholla @ Cambridge Estate
Address: Along Cambridge Road


This Wallholla was the one that started it all. I first stumbled onto this newly erected playground structure along Cambridge Road at Cambridge Estate last year.

MAP

6. Wallholla @ Punggol Edgefield Plains
Address: In front of Block 673A Edgefield Plains


Punggol gets it own Vertical Playground! Spot the cool trampoline too? The playground also comes with a gigantic spiderweb-like net, metal slide and mini-tunnels.


MAP

7. Wallholla @ Junction 8 Shopping Centre
Address: 9 Bishan Pl, Singapore 579837, Level 3


Being the only Wallholla found within a shopping mall, this playground also boasts additional polygonal climbing structures.

MAP

8. Wallholla @ Bukit Batok East Ave 4 (Opening Soon)
Address: 266 Bt Batok East Ave 4, Singapore 650266


And the West have it too! Well, it is coming soon actually.

The newest Vertical Playground in Singapore, it is currently still not open to public as finishing touches are added to the entire playground area. I have no idea when it will be open though, but I will definitely provide an update once I have news!

MAP

Have loads of fun climbing like monkies! :)

Awesome Pop-Up Water Slides that Won't be in Singapore Forever!

$
0
0

If there is one thing that never fails to elicit squeals of laughter from the kiddos, it has got to be water play. Add in a dash of water slide fun into the mix, and that laughter will be multiplied tenfold! Nothing beats sliding down a water slide into a pool of water - especially in a warm climate like Singapore's.... even better if the water slides come in the form of inflatables!

This 2016, THREE such inflatable water slides will be gracing our shores with the first 2 taking places during the upcoming June School Holidays. And all of them got its own appeal: One's the BOUNCIEST, one's the TALLESTwhile the final one's the LONGEST.


But one thing is similar though - they are only set up temporarily. So grab everyone in the family and head down to these inflatable water slides for the SLIDE OF YOUR LIFE!

Sentosa FunFest 2016

Sentosa FunFest, Singapore’s only mega beach festival is making its return with an exciting line-up of inflatables and water-based adventures for the whole family!


Kicking off the school holidays, Singapore’s biggest beach festival will return for its second edition on Palawan Green at Sentosa. Set against the island backdrop of sun, sea and sand, families can enjoy endless fun at this giant play area with larger-than-life inflatables, water-oriented fun, obstacle courses and more.

Highlights include:

Fun Water Slide
Climb in, climb up, slide down, climb out - rinse and repeat! Nothing beats the classic fun of a giant water slide!


Kiddy Amazing Maze
Let your kids run wild in the amazing inflatable maze! Kids can play a thrilling game of hide & seek or catching, as they dodge sprays of water coming in from the sides, and navigate their way safely through the maze.

Bubbly Foam Pool
Jump into the Foam Pool and enjoy loads of bubbly fun with your kids!


Playful Sand Pit
A mega beach festival wouldn't be complete without a sand pit for the kids to build sandcastles and more! Watch your kids have fun as they work on their sandy creations in the sand pits!

Cool Zones
Armed with water mist and sprinklers, the Cool Zones will help you and your kids stay cool and refreshed for more hours of fun and excitement ahead!


For the older kids and sportive parents, more adventures await as they overcome the Rope Swinging obstacle or challenge each other with the Nerf Blasters. The event will also feature new inflatable activities such as Cliff Jump, Balance Beam and Traversing Wall.

Date: 28 May - 5 June 2016 (28 May SOLD OUT)
Time: 10am - 7pm (last entry at 4.30pm)
Venue: Palawan Green, Sentosa
Ticket Prices: Adult $28 | Child (3-12) $18 | Child below 3 FREE | Bundle for 4: $82.80
*Visitors are recommended to purchase the tickets online.
Website: www.sentosa.com.sg/State-Specials/Events/Sentosa-FunFest-2016

DBS Marina Regatta 2016

Featuring the region’s top dragon boating teams racing beneath an iconic skyline, the Promontory at the Marina Bay will also be transformed into a pop-up urban beach over two weekends – 28 & 29 May; 4 & 5 June – and welcome the largest collective of emerging home-grown talent in Singapore.

Tallest Water Slide Singapore

DBS Marina Regatta 2016 is poised to be one of the most ambitious festivals yet to be held by the Bay, with Singapore’s only urban pop-up beach making a bigger and bolder comeback together with the debut of Southeast Asia’s TALLEST inflatable water slide!


Open from 11am to 8pm on both weekends, the slide stands at a prominent 16m with slides sloping at about 45 degrees. Tackle the slide for a good cause – at S$10 for five rides – all proceeds raised will go to SPD, a non-profit organisation that helps people with disabilities develop their potential to the fullest so that they can be self-reliant and independent. To ride the slide, participants must be at least 110cm tall and a minimum of five years old.


The beach also comes with a packed programme of non-stop activities for families and urbanites alike. Board sports enthusiasts can try their hand at stand-up paddling and yoga sessions, while kids can explore the kayaking, zorbing, and obstacle courses.


For more details and timings of the activities, visit HERE.


Date: 28 - 29 May & 4 - 5 Jun 2016
Time: 11am - 10pm
Venue: The Promontory @ Marina Bay
FREE Admission ($10 for 5 rides on Water Slide)
Website: www.dbsbythebay.com/marina-regatta


Slide The City 2016

Sometime and somewhere in Singapore during the 4th quarter this year, a section here will be transformed into a water park consisting of the longest slide ever, thanks to Slide The City.


From the looks of the photo above, I'm guessing Marina Bay.

But what exactly is Slide The City? THIS.


Families are invited to coast down a 1,000 feet (slightly over 300m) long - the equivalent of three city blocks - slide on inner tubes. Make no mistake, it will be the LONGEST water slide in town! And judging from the video below, it is going to be oh-so-fun!


Along with the one-of-a-kind slide, the event includes a party with food, music, local vendors and street entertainers.


After watching the videos, all the monkies can say is - WHEEEEEEE!!!

Date: 4th Quarter 2016
Time, Venue & Price: To be confirmed
Website: www.facebook.com/slidethecitysingapore/

So... which one are you looking forward to most? :)

13 Family-friendly Cafes Located in Singapore Parks

$
0
0
What is better than bringing the kids to the parks and letting them play silly at the fun playgrounds? Realising that there are ample family-friendly food options located within the parks!

After a day out at the parks, sometimes the last thing I want to fret over is where to bring the family for lunch or dinner. Thankfully, from MacRitchie to Woodlands to East Coast, there are plenty of cafes that families can have a meal or drink in the heart of nature.



1. 5DrunkenRabbits (Pasir Ris Park)

The restaurant comes with a beautiful verdant nature surrounding of the Pasir Ris Park. Offering an extensive range of Western cuisine, there is both indoor and al-fresco dining. I recommend going for the breezy outdoor seating which faces the seaside and provides a great view of the sunset.

Source
The dim lighting and rattan furnishings complement the nature setting. Since it opens til late, it is the quiet alternative to the usual noisy supper haunts in the east. Plus, Pasir Ris Park is equipped with a huge adventure playground with innovative play stations, a mini maze garden, a toddler playground and a mangrove boardwalk!


Website: www.5drunkenrabbits.com/home/
Address: 201 Pasir Ris Rd, Pasir Ris Park, Singapore 519147 (Carpark D)
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri & Eve of PHs 3.30pm - 1am | Weekends & PHs 11.30am - 1am

2. Beaulieu House (Sembawang Park)

Set on a Hill overlooking the blue waters of the Johore Straits, Beaulieu House is one of the very few restaurants that have a magnificent view of the sea. Originally the seaside house of a David’s family, who were in the mining business, the building is said to be even older than the Naval Base.


Serving Chinese seafood and western cuisine, it is located out in the most Northern part of Singapore inside Sembawang Park, a wonderful place fill with greenery and a favourite spot for families, thanks to the proximity of the Battleship playground!


Website: www.beaulieuhouse.com.sg
Address: 117 Beaulieu Road, Sembawang Park, Singapore 759837
Opening Hours: Mon – Sat 11am – 2.30pm & 6pm – 11pm, Sun 11am – 11pm (2.30pm – 6pm only serving Western)

3. Bistro @ Changi (Changi Beach Park)

An alfresco café just beside the Changi Pitstop, the bistro is a convenient refuelling station for families after returning the rental bicycles. Indulge in the magnificent sea view that Changi Beach Park – the oldest coastal park in Singapore – has to offer and chow down food ranging from light snacks to main courses.

Source
Just steps away from the white sandy beach, the bistro is wonderful for families to soak in the splendour of the sea breeze and watch the planes fly by.

Website: www.changibistro.com.sg
Address: 260 Nicoll Drive Changi Beach Carpark 1 Singapore 498991
Opening Hours: Mon – Thur 12pm - 11pm | Fri & Sat 12pm - 1am | Sun10am - 11pm

4. Faber Bistro (Mount Faber Park)

Perched on the top of Mount Faber Park, this friendly dining spot is tucked away in a cosy little corner and offers awesome panoramic views of Singapore. 

Source
Sit back and enjoy the city view from the top of the hill while you pick your favourites from the western dining menu, including its Sunday Brunch with items starting from $18++.

Address: 101 Mount Faber Road, Singapore 099201
Opening Hours: Mon - Thurs: 4pm - 11pm | Fri, Sat & Eve of PHs: 4pm - 2am | Sun 11am - 11pm

5. Food For Thought (Singapore Botanic Gardens)

Set amidst the lush greenery of Singapore Botanic Gardens, Food For Thought is designed connect people with the pleasures of nature. To encourage family and community bonding, there are large tables and generous amounts of spaces inside and outside the eatery.


Simply let the kids run free in the spacious outdoor playground which comes with a slide and climbing structures – it is fully enclosed so you can keep an eye on them easily. For those who prefer to stay within the comforts of the air-conditioned area, colouring sheets are available upon request as well.

Website: www.foodforthought.com.sg
Address: 1 Cluny Road, Tanglin Gate, #B1-00, Sinagpore S259569
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun 8am – 9pm

6. GRUB (Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park)

Nestled idyllically at Pond Gardens (formerly Bishan Park 1) of Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park, GRUB boasts both dining in air-conditioned comfort and al-fresco - it is a tough choice, choosing between the industrial feel of its interior's bricked walls with black-rimmed, floor-to-ceiling glass facade versus the calming breeze in the midst of a luscious green wallpaper.


As a parent, it was comforting to know that GRUB strongly believes in eating responsibly. Natural ingredients are used in its cooking, without the addition of MSG, artificial preservatives, additives or flavorings. Be sure to try its legendary Churros too... and burn off the calories at the nearby park after that!


Website: grub.com.sg
Address: 510 Ang Mo Kio Ave 1 (Bishan Park 1), Singapore 569983
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri: 11am - 3pm, 5.30pm - 10.30pm | Sat-Sun & PH: 9am - 4pm, 5.30pm - 10.30pm

7. Rasa Istimewa C2K Restaurant (Chua Chu Kang Park)

An open air halal restaurant at Chua Chu Kang Park, it serves a range of seafood and Chinese tze char dishes. Somehow, eating at the park gives off a different ambience. Perhaps it is due to the numerous playgrounds – both with sandpits and rubber mats – located just a stone’s throw away from the restaurant.


Brimming with recreational activities for the whole family, Chua Chu Kang has four different areas, a small skate plaza, a wide range of fitness stations for the young and old, lawns and event spaces – making the restaurant the perfect pit stop after a day’s fun.

Website: www.rasaistimewa.com.sg
Address: Chua Chu Kang Park, Chua Chu Kang Drive
Opening Hours: Mon – Thur & Sun 12pm - 11.45pm | Frid & Sat 12pm - 12.45am

8. Rasa Istimewa Waterfront Restaurant (Woodlands Waterfront Park)

The sister outlet of Rasa Istimewa C2K Restaurant at Chua Chu Kang Park, this is Singapore’s first restaurant located right in the middle of a pier. Enjoy the view of the Johor skyline and Singapore-Malaysia Causeway, while savoring its signature sumptuous dishes such assorted Muslim Seafood, Satay, Ikan Bakar, Western Delights and many others!

Source
The restaurant is located in Woodlands Waterfront Park, with its centrepiece attraction being the two-storey-high Sky Walk - a series of six crows nets that are interlinked by mesh bridges which kids can climb and cross – guaranteed to work up a ferocious appetite at the end of the day.



Website:www.facebook.com/RasaIstimewaWaterfrontRestaurant
Address: 6A Admiralty Road West, Woodlands Waterfront Park, Singapore 757445
Opening Hours: Sun – Thur 2pm – 12am | Fri & Sat 3pm - 1am

9. SandBank (East Coast Park)

A family friendly restaurant with homemade pastas, pizzas and bread baked in house and a selection of BBQ baby back ribs and a seafood boil with flower crabs, slipper lobsters and prawns that are great for sharing. Kids can run themselves silly on the grassy lawn in front of the restaurant while parents can keep an eye on them from the shade of the nearby verandah. If you want a bit of fun after your meal, a unique offering of the restaurant is the 15m plunge pool on its premise!


Come Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays, head down for its International Buffet Breakfast (Adult $19nett & Child $9.50nett) from 8:30am to 12pm!

Address: 920 East Coast Parkway, #01-28/32 Parkland Green, Singapore 449875
Opening Hours: Tue - Thur  4pm – 11pm | Fri & Eve of PH 4pm - 12am | Sat & PHs 8.30am – 12am | Sun 8.30am - 11pm

10. The Fabulous Baker Boy (Fort Canning Park)

Perched on a grassy knoll at the foot of Fort Canning Park in the canteen of the former River Valley Swimming Complex, this charming little outdoor cafe is central but yet away from the maddening crowd.


Great to head to with the little ones after a walk in the tranquil Fort Canning Park, the café boasts a huge grassy slope in front for the kids to tumble around some more while parents reward themselves with a slice of decadent dessert.

Website: www.thefabulousbakerboy.com
Address: 70 River Valley Road #01-15, The Foothills, Singapore 179037
Opening Hours: Tue – Thur 11am - 10pm | Fri  Sat 11am - 11pm | Sun 10am - 5pm | Closed on Mon

11. Vava Bistro (MacRitchie Reservoir Park)

If you like dining in a forest setting, you will love Vava Bistro. Bask in the laid-back tropical nature of MacRitchie Reservoir Park. The bistro serves up a pretty western style fare, with hints of European. Food is decent but the atmosphere more than makes it up.

Source
If you do not want to contend with the humidity, heat or mosquitoes, grab a seat at its indoor lounge – you will still be able to partake in the beautiful scenery as the sun sets. However, it is recommended you burn off some calories by going on one of MacRitchie’s nature trails beforehand.

Website: www.vavabistro.com.sg
Address: 181 Lornie Rd, Hilltop, MacRitchie Reservoir Park, Singapore 297732
Opening Hours: Sun – Fri 5pm – 10.30pm | Sat & Sun 11am - 10.30pm

12. WAWAWA - Bistro by The Reservoir (Bedok Reservoir)

You just cannot beat the location of this bistro. Situated by the banks of Bedok Reservoir, catch the spectacular view of the sunset when you grab a seat outdoors.
With a menu that features moderately priced comfort food influenced by German cooking traditions, sit back and relax while your kids engage in a little runabout in the open space out in the front. 

Address: 901 Bedok Reservoir Road, Singapore 479266
Opening Hours: Mon to Thu 5pm-12am | Fri 5pm-1am |Sat 11am-1am, |Sun 11am-12am

13. Wild Oats @ Punggol Park (Punggol Park)

Located at the edge of a 5-ha lake, Wild Oats is the company of lush tropic plants at Punggol Park. Soak in the atmosphere, dig into its local dishes or localised western dishes and wash everything down with a glass of ice cold beer. Chilling beside a lake overlooking the park has never been this relaxing.

Source
Families can head to the ‘Active Zone’ located at the southern part of the pond, where low impact 3-Generational fitness equipment suitable for users of all ages await.

Website: www.wildrocket.com.sg/wildoats.html
Address: 97 Hougang Avenue 8, #01-01, Singapore 538792
Opening Hours: Mon - Thu: 4pm - 12am | Fri: 4pm - 1am  | Sat: 4pm - 2am | Sun: 4pm - 12am

Do you have any personal faves? Share them with me too! :)

Family-friendly Adventure, Cultural & Nature Activities in Fiji

$
0
0
Media Invite

When planning a holiday with the family, I am sure all parents want to ensure the travel destination is not only kid-friendly but there are ample activities to keep the kids happily occupied as well. And as you probably already know after having read my previous post on Fiji, it is a beautiful country filled with friendly people who simply cherish kids.



And while most resorts have fantastic kids clubs on site - which offer supervised games and activities - Fiji is so much more than that. So to create terrific Fiji memories, we took the monkies on a family adventure and experienced some of the most fun, kid-friendly activities!

Garden of the Sleeping Giant


No giants here, only plants. But lots and lots of it.



Sitting at the foothills of the Nausori Highlands - its mountain range skyline resembles that of a sleeping giant's silhouette - the attractive landscaped gardens is about 10 minutes drive north of Nadi.

Home to Fiji’s native plants as well as an impressive collection of more than 2000 varieties of magnificent Asian orchids and Cattleya hybrids orchids, the Garden of the Sleeping Giant was once the private collection of the late American actor Raymond Burr.





Now open to the public for a fee of F$18 for adults and F$9 for kids (6-15), we were able to wander through the lush and fertile plantation which took us past a large lily pond and through native forest.




The great thing about the Garden is guides are available on site to walk visitors through the ground, at no additional cost. We were given a brief description of the property and a little history of how the mountain valley was transformed into the fantasy garden it is today.

After that, it was pretty much being awed in the presence of such stunning scenery.



Of course, there were a few play structures to keep the monkies occupied as well.


See what I mean?


Overall, the Garden of the Sleeping Giant makes a nice relaxing break from the beaches and pools.


Sabeto Mud Baths and Hot Springs


If you are visiting the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, never ever - never, I repeat - miss out on paying the Mud Pools a visit as well. Located just past the Garden, the Mud Pools allows for a very family-bonding sort of experience.


Forget the spa resorts. The facilities here may be very basic but covering ourselves with MUD is the ultimate therapeutic natural spa!


In all honesty, the monkies intially found it to be disgusting but after we slapped on a layer of mud, they were all giggly and game for more. After allowing the mud to dry in the sun, we hopped into the mud pool to wash it off.


We then ended the experience by soaking in a hot spring. Very rejuvenating!


It is claimed that the mud and hot spring have have age-defying and healing benefits but all I know is Sabeto Mud Pools and Hot Springs is a must-do when visiting Fiji because playing with mud has never been this fun! 



South Sea Island


For the greatest fun under the sun, you simply must spend a day at tiny, unihabited South Sea Island. As we found out, this gorgeous wee slice of paradise offers a fantastic array of activities for everyone in the family!


A day trip to South Sea Island is an easy 30 minute ferry ride from Denarau Marina with South Sea Cruises. The close location to Denarau means that we could make the most of the day lazing on the beach, snorkelling, diving and enjoying the myriad of activities on offer.


They say awesome things come in small packages, and what a gem South Sea Island turned out to be. Peppered with palm trees and surrounded by a coral lagoon, the island is tiny - only a 2-minute walk from end to end so no chance of kiddos getting lost!


No one lives permanently on the island; the only guests are the travellers who spend the night in a dorm atop the open-air restaurant, built with a rustic island theme in mind.


But small as it may be, the island packs a chock-ful load of activities. In fact, the toughest part for the monkies was deciding what to do first!

There is a salt water swimming pool... which the monkies wasted no time in diving in.


There are also non-motorised water sports equipment available free of charge, including kayaking and sailing.


The monkies then made a few fishy friends, thanks to the hours of snorkelling.


Prefer to stay dry? There is always the option of jumping onboard the semi-submersible coral viewer.


It was like going on a submarine tour, and the monkies enjoyed it tremendously!


Exclusively for kids, there is also a Kids Club on the island where they can play with sand toys, dabble in some artwork, have their faces painted.... or if the need to flex some muscles is warranted, there is always the tug-of-war friendly competition.


Oh, and did I mention that all food and drinks are inclusive?


Free flow beer with such a stunning beach view. I can live here forever.


As expected, lunchtime is a highlight on the island where everyone gathers around rustic tables at the open-air restaurant to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch with salads, rice and BBQ meat.



Fijian performances are always welcome too.


We were on the island from 9.30am to 5.30pm and even then, it wasn't enough for the monkies. Crystal clear waters, coral reefs and thousands of colourful tropical fish. What's not to love about South Sea Isalnd?


Sigatoka River Safari


There is the therapeutic Sabeto Mud Pools, there is the relaxing South Sea Island, and then there is the ultimate adrenaline-pumping Sigatoka River Safari!

There may be companies which label their Fijian cultural experiences as 'authentic' but most of the time, visitors do not get a true feel for the local lives of villagers. The Sigatoka River Safari, on the other hand, is famous as a top-notch cultural tourism activity that is perfect for all ages.


For starters, kids will love the 30-minute jet-boat ride! I know the monkies did.


Especially since it is mandatory for the jet boat to spin 360 degrees at high speeds at certain points during the journey. You know, just for the fun of it.


That explains our thrilled (or maybe shocked) faces. And did the monkies request it for more than once? You betcha!

But the Sigtoka River Safari wasn't all about thrills and spills. There was some breathtaking natural landscape to behold.


Along with the occasional goats and horses grazing along the banks of the river.



In fact, numerous Fijian villages still live by the 120km-long river and they freely waved to us as they went about their daily lives in the river. Absolutely amazing!


At the end of our boat ride, we arrived at our designated village. Sigatoka River Safari is the only tour in Fiji which visits a different village each day of the week, to allow all visitors enjoy life in an authentic Fijian koro (village).

More importantly, the tour provides an additional source of income for the villages in the Sigatoka Valley area as the tour rotates among the 14 villages there and a portion of the fees are given back to them.


After meeting the village chief, we were given a  brief tour of the surroundings. before being ushered into the communal hall where a welcome ceremony awaited.


And this was where all of us, including the boys, had our first taste of Kava, Fiji's national drink.


Once the formalities were over, the villagers sang for us and it was time to mingle!


Oh, and not forgetting feasting on an amazing Fijian food spread too.


We ended our visit by dancing with the villagers and the thing that struck me was how incredibly warm and friendly the local villagers were. And yes, the monkies made new friends too!


I have to rank Sigatoka River Cruise as one of the top highlights of our time in Fiji. It is a fantastic culturally enriching experience for the kids, where we got a glimpse into how village life in Fiji is really like.

Robinson Crusoe's Island Culture Night


Robinson Crusoe Island is just a 40-minute drive from Nadi, followed by a 30-minute river cruise to the island. Never mind what activities awaited us on the island.


For me, the sunset view alone was more than enough to get me intoxicated.


But then, my tummy rumbled and reminded me the reason why I was on the island for. This.


One of the uniquely Fijian things to try is lovo, a traditional form of cooking. Simply put, lovo is an underground barbecue in which an entire feast is cooked over hot rocks while buried in earth.

Rocks are first heated which will serve as the base for the lovo. Meat are then tightly wrapped in a weave of palm fronds or banana leaves before being placed in the bottom of the lovo pit lined with hot rocks. Various root crops like cassava and wild yam are added to the top. The entire hole is then filled with earth and left to simmer and cook for two to three hours.


And while the food was being dug out of the pit, the performers upped the entertainment factor by putting up a Fire Walking show too... which was followed by a sunset bonfire.


As we tucked into our Island Roast Feast of Roast Pork, Roast Beef, vegetables & other local Fijian dishes, the REAL show began.


Billed as Fiji's best South Pacific Island and Polynesian cultural show, it features some of Fiji's top fire and knife dancers - all woven together in a spectacular and sometimes, heart-stopping performance.


And when the Fijians do a fire show, they do it REALLY big.


All in, fantastic night entertainment for the kids and unfortunately for us, that was all the time we had in Fiji for activities. Admittedly, there are still plenty of family-friendly activities waiting to be discovered:

Big Bula Inflatable WaterPark


Situated in the heart of the beautiful Denarau Island, Big Bula Inflatable Waterpark is the world's largest permanent inflatable waterpark. From giant water slides to surfing big waves, climbing 10 metre high palm trees and racing through obstacle courses, kids can slide, jump and bounce to their hearts' content! There is also a dedicated area for the younger ones in a gated area.

Kula Ecopark Fiji


Kula Eco Park is an excellent Fiji family attraction for babies, toddlers and children. Here kids will be able to walk through the animal enclosures to see birds, exotic plants, reptiles and fish right inside an enclosed forest. With almost a kilometer of wooden walkways, bridges and rest areas, the park provides visitors with the opportunity to experience the 'wild side' of Fiji in comfortable and safe surroundings. Little ones can even get up close with the local animals and hold a snake or iguana. In addition, Kula Eco Park runs several breeding programs committed to preserving and building up indigenous animal species.

Zip Fiji


The South’s Pacific’s first and only zip-line adventure, Zip Fiji is located in the heart of a tropical rainforest on a private eco-reserve. An adrenaline-pumping activity that can be tried by children as young as 5, everyone will love flying across the 8 zip lines (up to 500 feet long!) over the rainforest canopy. But not only only is the jungle surfing adrenaline-inducing, it will be highly educational too as the session is tuned for ecological and cultural appreciation.

Cloud 9 Fiji


I guess only one word is needed - STUNNING.

Cloud 9 is a floating paradise located literally in the middle of the ocean surrounded by nothing but turquoise blue water, coral reef and the horizon! Fiji's only two level floating platform comes with a bar and Italian wood-fired pizzeria - perfect companions for a day of snorkelling or doing absolutely nothing.


Looks like we have to pay Fiji another visit!


Ready to have a Fijian adventure of your own? Great news! Changi Airport and Fiji Airways are currently having a giveaway where FIVE winners will each win a return trip for two to Fiji!


Hurry though, as the contest closes on 20 May 2016, 1700 hours (Singapore time)! Head to fiji.changiairport.com to take part!



Fiji Airways flies to Fiji twice weekly direct from Singapore. Return ticket prices start from S$839 for adults and S$529 for children. Sale ends on 15 June 2016. For more information, visit www.fijiairways.com

For more travel ideas and information, visit Tourism Fiji.

16 Activities for Kids this Vesak Day Weekend 2016

$
0
0

It's the Vesak Day long weekend! Oh wait, only the school-going kiddos get an extra day off on Monday. Lucky buggers. But that alone is no reason stay cooped up at home this weekend... especially since the mid-year examinations are over. Woot!

Plenty of 'Open House' events will be happening this weekend - Pulau Ubin, RSAF Open House, and Tanjong Pagar Railway Station. Then there is a Japanese festival, Car Garage Sale, new kid-centric exhibition and your absolute last chance to catch the blooming tulips at Gardens by the Bay. Phew, it's gonna be a power-packed weekend!


Pesta Ubin 2016
Now until 12 Jun 2016, Various Timings
Pulau Ubin


Pesta Ubin is Ubin Open House! Once a year, people who love Ubin step up to share with the public their special slice of Pulau Ubin. Pesta Ubin activities are heartfelt, organic and led by the community. Passionately highlighting Ubin's unique charms, get a taste of the kinder, gentler way of life on Ubin during Pesta Ubin. Visit pestaubin2016.blogspot.sg for more details.

Happening on 21 & 22 May 2016 Weekend:

20-25 May: Tua Pek KongFestival
For six days, Pulau Ubin celebrates Tua Pek Kong's birthday! Ubin Jetty is decked out in colourful flags and lanterns, and Ubin Town is host to lavish rituals. FREE for all. For more information, visit HERE.

21 May: Coastal Cleanup with Sea Shepherd at Jelutong Beach
2.30pm - 5pm | Meeting point: Assembly Area opposite the HSBC Volunteer Hub (map)
Get hands-on experience and help keep our shores clean. You will learn how trash is affecting marine life, as well as how Singapore manages its trash. You will also have fun as we will be on the look out for interesting and weird finds amongst the trash! FREE for all. For more information, visit HERE.

Ongoing: FREE Treasure Ubin treasure hunt with Treasure SG
Join this mini treasure hunt around Ubin Town, happening every day of Pesta Ubin. Take some time to hunt for hidden treasure tags, learn more about Ubin Town and win attractive prizes! For more information on how to take part, visit HERE.

Ongoing: FREE Kampung Photo Booth & Colouring the big Pulau Ubin Fun Map at Uncle Lim's shop
10am - 4pm daily | Uncle Lim's shop, No. 42 Pulau Ubin, opposite the Wayang Stage, 3 min walk from Ubin Jetty (map)
Drop by Uncle Lim's shop at the centre of Ubin Town and choose from cool props and quirky kampung accessories to have a FREE Kampung makeover! Also, remember to chip in your colouring effort and colour a shared copy of the huge Pulau Ubin Fun Map. FREE for everyone. For more details, visit HERE.

Ongoing: 'Open House' at Pulau Ubin fish farms
9am - 5pm | $15 per person
Find out more about aquaculture in Singapore and the heritage of fish farming in Singapore in this special 'Open House' opportunity every day of Pesta Ubin! Don't miss this unique opportunity to get a glimpse of the community that live and work in the waters off Pulau Ubin.

Suitable for kids aged 8 and above, accompanied by adults. Safety equipment and procedures will be provided and explained. Minimum 4 persons per trip, maximum 10 persons per trip. Subject to availability of free time slots at the farm. Registration required. Visit HERE for registration information.

Super Japan Matsuri
20 - 22 May 2016
20 May 5pm - 10pm | 21 & 22 May 3pm - 10pm
Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay, Lawn
FREE Admission


The matsuri is a Japanese communal festival that is typically held during summer, in celebration of an event. Encompassing a wide variety of performances, games, and Japanese street snacks, it symbolises the community's unity as a whole and its harmony with the gods. With more than seven food and games stalls, Super Japan Matsuri by WAttention recreates this uniquely Japanese experience that the whole family can enjoy. Satiate your hunger with a range of popular snacks such as the takoyaki (grilled octopus ball), okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake), and kushimono (skewered food); or have fun playing yo-yo tsuri (yo-yo balloon fishing) and senbonbiki (lucky string game).

RSAF Open House
21 & 22 May 2016; 9am - 6pm
Paya Lebar Air Base
FREE Admission


The RSAF Open House is Back – Bigger and Better this time! Be prepared to feast your eyes on aerial displays, aircraft arming demonstrations and our whole range of aircraft and weapon systems! If you’re lucky (and daring enough), you might even get to soar through the skies on board one of the aircraft! Programme schedule is as follows:


For more information on the Open House and how to get there, visit HERE.

Tanjong Pagar Railway Station Open House
21 May 2016; 9am - 6pm
Free Admission


Other than exploring the railway station, visitors can also look forward to an exhibition titled WOMEN: New Portraits by renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz. The photo portraits feature women of outstanding achievement including artists, musicians, CEOs, politicians, writers and philanthropists. The exhibition will be open to the public from 29 April to 22 May 2016 at the Main Hall, as part of a 10-city global tour.

The public can enter the railway station using the main entrance along Keppel Road or through the side entrance along Spottiswoode Park Road. Read about our previous experience here: www.cheekiemonkie.net/2015/02/tanjong-pagar-railway-station-open-house.html

PLAYtime! Grandpa Cherry Blossom
Now until 21 May 2016
Tue, Thu & Fri: 9.30am & 11am  | Sat & Sun: 11am & 4pm
Esplanade Theatre Studio
$18


A theatrical retelling of the popular Japanese folktale, Grandpa Cherry Blossom is a heartwarming tale of friendship and gratitude. Recommended for children between 2 and 4 years old. For tickets, visit HERE.

Craft Workshop: Cloth Koinobori
21 May 2016; 4pm (1.5 hours)
Theatre Meeting Point, Esplanade
FREE


Using stamps and paint, come transform a plain cloth into a koinobori that is uniquely yours!

Novo Winds
21 May 2016; 5.30pm - 6.30pm
Singapore Botanic Gardens, Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage
FREE Admission

Head to Singapore Botanic Gardens for a fun evening with Novo Winds! Put on your dancing shoes and dance to the songs from the famous Broadway musical,Grease, or sing-along to the beautiful and nostalgic tune of Those years <<那些年>> and even melodious hits from Mayday <<五月天>>. So bring your picnic baskets for a splendid evening in the gardens!

GUNPLA Power: Build your own Gundam model
21 & 22 May 2016; 4pm (2 hours)
PIP's PLAYbox (Esplanade)
FREE


GUNPLA are model kits that depict characters and vehicles from popular anime series, Gundam. Assembling and painting them trains the mind and helps improve one’s patience, determination, and creativity. Collect a free* GUNPLA and build it at PIP’s Playbox!

*Only for PIP’s Club members and for children ages 7–12 years old.
*Sign for for FREE PIP's Club membership HERE.
*Limited quantities available, on a first come first serve basis

The Great Singapore Garage Sale
22 May 2016; 10am - 6pm
Goodman Arts Centre, The Garden (Behind Block B)
FREE Admission


The Great Singapore Garage Sale is a community event bringing together the Island’s preloved goods at a bargain price. For locals and expats alike, the Garage Sale is the place for clothes, toys, furniture, ornaments, knick knacks, electronic goods and more to find a new home. Rain or shine it’s a family day out attracting more and more people at each event. As well as second hand bargains there’s face painting and balloon modelling for the kids plus snacks for the shoppers.

Tulipmania 2016
Now until 22 May 2016; 9am - 9pm daily
Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay
Admission Fees apply


Tulipmania returns in full bloom at the Gardens! Witness a stunning spectacle of tulips set amidst an elegant Persian-style backdrop, and learn about how the flower originated in the ancient Ottoman Empire (present-day Turkey) and its significance on Turkish arts and culture. Our review HERE.

*Local Senior Citizens enjoy 50% off admission tickets to the Flower Dome! Offer valid till Sunday, 22 May 2016.

Supa-Ongaku: Japanese Anime and Games
22 May 2016; 3pm (1 hour)
Esplanade Concert Hall
FREE Admission

Lose yourself in the enchanting world of anime and classic Japanese games performed by the Philharmonic Youth Winds! Look forward to an afternoon of magic and fantasy as the music of your favourite Studio Ghibli animated films fill the Esplanade Concert Hall. Celebrate the 20th anniversary of Pokémon and relive the good times spent trying to “catch ‘em all”. And sit back and enjoy timeless tunes from well-loved Japanese shows and games. Listen out for the best of anime music with tracks from Galaxy Express 999 and many more!

Craft Workshop: Kumihimo Bracelet Braiding
22 May 2016; 3pm & 5.30pm (1.5 hours)
Theatre Meeting Point, Esplanade
FREE


Kumihimo (thread-gathering) is a traditional Japanese technique of braiding which produces colourful cords that serve both functional and decorative purposes. It is used to create obijime, a belt which holds the obi of a kimono in place, samurai armours, and even friendship bands! Create your own intricately designed kumihimo bracelet! *Adult supervision is recommended for children under 7 years old.

Roald Dahl's The Witches
Now until 29 May 2016
21 May 11am | 22 May1pm | 28 May 11am | 29 May 1pm
Ulu Pandan CC Theatrette
$32


This spellbinding production of Roald Dahl's award-winning story has all the answers. If you adore the book, and love the film, you will scream with delight when you see this Roald Dahl classic brought to life on stage. Roald Dahl's The Witches promises to be a spine-tingling treat for the whole family, be sure to catch it! For tickets, visit HERE.

LEGO Star Wars Day 2016
30 Apr - 31 May 2016
LEGOLAND Malaysia
Admission Fess apply


Throughout the whole month of May, the park will host LEGO Star Wars Days activities transporting families into hyperspace and to a galaxy far far away.... LEGO Star Wars Days activities during the month of May include:

Build and Take home a Mini Millennium Falcon
Every weekend in May 2016
Bring home a piece of the action by building your own mini limited edition LEGO Millennium Falcon as a take-home reminder of the day's amazing LEGO Star Wars memories!

Kids enter LEGOLAND Malaysia FREE for the whole month of May 2016 when they go dressed in full Star Wars costumes!

Imaginarium: Over the Ocean, Under the Sea
Now until 28 Aug 2016
Mon - Sun 10am - 7pm | Fri 10am - 9pm
Singapore Art Musuem
FREE for Singaporeans & PRs | Adults $10 | Senior Citizens (above 60) & Kids $5 | Kids below 6 FREE


Delving into the deep, Imaginarium: Over the Ocean, Under the Sea – the sixth edition of SAM’s children-focused annual exhibition – invites adventurers of all ages into the watery realms of our Earth as seen through the eyes of contemporary artists.

A whimsical introduction to the many stories and ideas that surround seascapes, Imaginarium: Over the Ocean, Under the Sea presents tactile and interactive works that encourage discovery through exploration and play. At SAM at 8Q, young people are invited to comb the shores and navigate the deep where they make the acquaintance of mysterious denizens and underwater wonders. We hope that, as protectors of the future, our young visitors will also think about the impact we have on the natural world, and of how, through inventive and wise ideas, we can save our earth and its awe-inspiring oceans. For the detailed listing and programme, download the brochure HERE.

Hideaways - Creating with Nature
Now until 30 Oct 2016
Tues - Sun: 10am - 6pm (Closed on Mondays)
Playeum (Blk 47, Malan Road, Gillman Barracks, #01-23, Singapore 109444)
$20 per child (1-12) | Accompanying adult: Free | Additional accompanying adult: $10


Hideways - Creating With Nature is all about immersive experiences - experiences that will invite kids to explore, observe, construct, reflect, innovate and engage with nature and natural materials through hands-on exhibits and interactive artists’ installations. Specifically designed for kids aged 1 to 12, the exhibition helps them explore these questions through various installations - providing an interdisciplinary and engaging experience serving as an important reminder of the world’s ecosystem. Read more in my review HERE.

Singapore's Remaining 3 Farmways: Activities for Families

$
0
0

Did you know that there are only 3 remaining Farmways in Singapore?

In the past, the rural parts of Singapore were dominated by farms which resulted in the roads that led to the farming areas to be known as Farmways.

Today, Murai Farmway, Seletar West Farmway and Pasir Ris Farmway are home to a variety of vegetable, fish, and pet farms. Of course, there are still other farms found in other parts of Singapore, like those at Kranji Countryside, but I decided to check out these 3 surviving Farmways to see if there are any gems worth bringing kids to.


So over 2 weekends, the monkies, the wifey and I visited the farms at the 3 Farmways and to our surprise, there were actually plenty of activities good for a weekend out with the family. 


If you are tired of the usual malls, playgrounds and parks, go off the beaten track right here in Singapore and pay farms like a mini zoo, marine fish aquarium and even an oh-so-cute bunny headquarters a visit!

MURAI FARMWAY

Located near the Lim Chu Kang area, Murai Farmway consists mainly of foreign worker dormitories, Chew's Agriculture Pte Ltd (yes, the one who produces fresh eggs), a plant nursery and an organic farm. The latter is Quan Fa Organic Farm, which has grown from humble beginnings of a small organic vegetable retailer to one of the leading distributors in Singapore today.


Free of pesticides, chemicals and fertilizers, this family-run farm grows all sorts of fruits and vegetables including pumpkins and brinjals.


Its doors are open to public and  the farm welcomes everyone to take a peek around. In addition, they also organise educational farm tours for groups (min. 20 pax). Visit HERE for more details on various packages.


If you fancy bringing back home some fresh produce, the farm also has a little air-conditioned shop to stock up on the greens.


Quan Fa Organic Farm
35 Murai Farmway, Singapore 709145
Opening hours: Weekends from 9am to 6pm
Website:quanfaorganic.com.sg

Located nearby is a plant nursery named Koon Lee Nursery, which sells a range of plants as well as gardening and landscaping supplies.


The nursery is pretty huge so if you are looking to purchase some flowers and plants, chances are you will not be disappointed.


I am no gardening fan but it seemed to me that the prices here are cheaper than the more established plant nurseries in Singapore. So we ended up buying plenty of seeds as the monkies expressed an interest to grow some plants of their own!


Koon Lee Nursery
2 Murai Farmway, Singapore 709147
Tel: 6793 7229

SELETAR WEST FARMWAY

Located off the main road of Jalan Kayu, Seletar West Farmway once consisted mainly of pig farms. Now, due to the rapid development of Sengkang town, all there remains is a few fish farms, an animal lodge and a mushroom farm.

We did not manage to visit the latter as Myco Mushroom Farm (9 Seletar West Farmway 5, Singapore 798057) was already closed when we visited (Opening hours: 11am to 4pm). Apparently, the farm is Singapore's only specialist mushroom grower and also conducts tours of its facilities.

Despite the ongoing construction, a portion of Seletar West Farmway still retains its rural and rustic charm... thanks to the one place that I think appeals most to kids - The Animal Resort.


If you are looking for a place for your child to have close encounter and interaction with farm animals just like the good old kampong days, then the Animal Resort is the place to go. What’s more, entrance is absolutely free!


Spread over five acres, the Animal Resort allows kids to get cosy with geese, peacocks, fishes, chickens, ducks, rabbits, guinea pigs, a horse and cassowary. For $1 a packet of feed, kids can also feed the animals to their hearts’ content.


Kids will no doubt be thrilled to be able to feed the animals, since some of them like the geese and chickens, are free to roam around.


Oh, and which kid can resist feeding a horse too?


Actually, we first visited The Animal Resort in 2006 when Ash was just less than 1.5 years old and we have been back a few times since (as my previous blog entries will show). 


Gosh, he looked so cute and tiny then!

If you are there on a Sunday late afternoon, head to the German Shepherd Dog Club Training Ground at the rear of the farm to catch German Shepherd Dogs undergo training too.


The Animal Resort
81 Seletar West Farmway 5, Singapore 798061
Opening hours: 10am – 6pm daily (except CNY eve & CNY)
FREE Admission

PASIR RIS FARMWAY

Of all the 3 Farmways, I think Pasir Ris Farmway houses the most diverese farms of the lot... including more farms to visit than the previous 2 Farmways combined, thanks to the many pet farms, animal shelters and fish farms located there.


If you kids love marine and exotic fishes, then you can't go wrong at the farms situated at 22 Pasir Ris Farmway 2!


Block C is home to a wide variety of marine fishes on sale.


Finding Nemo or Dory? Definitely no snorkelling or diving needed here!


There are even plenty of corals to gawk at too!


For a glimpse of huge arowanas and other exotic fishes, walk over to Block B.



Yes, the monkies were fascinated by the numerous stingrays alright.


Located behind Pasir Ris Farmway 3 and along Pasir Ris Coast Industrial Park 1 is Tropical Fish International.


 An importer and exporter of tropical fishes, aquatic plants and aquarium accessories, it offers a variety of fishes for sale.


But the find for us here had got to be these fishes.


Fighting fish! And the cheapest ones start from $5! Little surprise that the monkies wanted to rear a fighting fish of their own then.


And so began the long process of picking out their fave of the lot.


We have had the fighting fish for close to one month now and I'm happy to report all of them are still alive!


Within its premises, there are also prawning and fishing ponds as well.



Tropical Fish International
1 Pasir Ris Coast Industrial Park 1, Singapore 518235
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm
Website: www.tropicalfishintl.com

How about fishing for the kiddos, you ask? Relive the good old days at Mainland Tropical Fish Farm with some classic longkang fishing and bring home all fish caught.

Source
Or if you are up for a bigger challenge, head to the prawning ponds for a more prized catch! If you prefer to relax, pamper yourself with fish spa therapy at the spa centre. There are also plenty to see: Arapaima (the largest fresh water fish in the world), koi, stingrays, red and silver arowanas, huge catfishes, turtles, terrapins and freshwater prawns.

Mainland Tropical Fish Farm
1 Pasir Ris Farmway 1, Singapore 519352
Opening hours: 8.30am - 7pm daily
Website:mainlandfishfarm.com

Pasir Ris Farmway 2 is also famed for its many animal boarding houses and dog kennels but did you know the ultimate cuteness overload lies within the premise of Ericsson Pet Farm?


A RABBIT HEADQUARTERS!!!


Comprising of a humble little shop started by a group of rabbit owners, Rabbit Headquarters (RHQ) believes in keeping its batches of rabbits in small numbers but superior quality that goes well beyond commericalisation.


RHQ specialises in hand-picking and breeding their rabbits to produce bunnies of both quality and good temperament, and by caring for their health and well-being. And obviously, the stars of RHQ have got to be the rabbits.


SO CUTE RIGHT??? I think the monkies (and wifey) fell in love with almost single bunny they cuddled.


If you are new to the world of bunnies, but are thinking of rearing one and yet not too sure what to expect, RHQ will be a great place to ask questions and set your mind at ease. In the short time that we were there, the monkies learnt a fair bit about bunnies... including the proper way to hold them.


Rabbit Headquarters
16 Pasir Ris Farmway 2, Singapore 519316
Opening hours: Weekends & Public Holiday 12pm - 6pm
Website: www.rabbithq.com.sg


I am pretty certain that there are other farms within the 3 Farmways that we missed. So if you know of other farms, please let us know in the comments below. Thanks in advance!

[GIVEAWAY] Mister Maker & The Shapes LIVE in Singapore

$
0
0

This June School Holiday, CBeebies’ Mister Maker will be bringing his first ever live theatre tour to Singapore... together with The Shapes! With a fabulous supporting cast and art at its heart, this fantastic live show encourages Mini Makers and grown-ups to sing, dance and make some noise.


I don't know about your kids, but my monkies are huge fans of Mister Maker - to the extent they are always hoarding craft materials like toilet rolls, tissue boxes and milk cartons so that they always have a ready supply of materials to get all crafty! And I mean that in a good way, of course.

If you are unfamiliar with Mister Maker, just know that he is the ultimate arts and craft show for pre-schoolers and early primary years which teaches and entertains in fun and imaginative ways. He gets his inspiration to make art from everything and anything around him. Set in his own fantasy art room, he collects the required things from the Doodle drawers as he creates and makes pictures, objects and other things come to life.


During this interactive live show, there’s a big ‘make’ to take part in, lots of audience participation and....The Shapes! Yes, the kids will be able to share the fun with Circle, Square, Rectangle and Triangle too!


This is one interactive show you won’t want to miss! Only here for seven shows from 10 to 12 June 2016, tickets start from $35 and are available from SISTIC.



[GIVEAWAY]

Fantastic news! Thanks to Sliding Doors Entertainment, I have THREE SETS of FAMILY PACK TICKETS to GIVE AWAY!

Each Family Pack consists of FOUR Tickets (Cat 2) worth a total of $300. The tickets are strictly for the 12 June 2016, 5pm show.

And there will be 3 lucky winners!

For a chance to win, all you have to do is do the following:

1. LIKE Sliding Doors Entertainment's Facebook page HERE.

2. Leave a comment either in the comment section of this blog post OR on our Cheekiemonkies' Facebook corresponding post HERE once you have done so.

WANT TO INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING?
SHARE this blog post of the giveaway on Facebook for a bonus chance! Remember to set your profile to public so that I can see the shared post.

Giveaway ends on 27 May 2016, 2359 hours.

Good Luck! :)


Useful Information

MISTER MAKER and the SHAPES LIVE ON STAGE
Dates: 10 – 12 June 2016
Venue: D’Marquee, Downtown East
Time: 10 Jun 6pm | 11 Jun 12pm, 3pm and 5.30pm | 12 Jun 10.30am, 2pm and 5pm
Price: $35, $75 & $110 (Excludes the booking fee of $4 per ticket)
Bookings:www.sistic.com.sg/events/mister0616

More than 100 Activities for Kids this June School Holidays 2016 (Singapore)

$
0
0

WHAT? We are already almost halfway through 2016???

With the June School Holidays around the corner, the same old question always crops up - how do we parents keep them occupied during the holidays while retaining our sanity?

Well, rest easy because I have compiled an easy guide to the various activities for kids taking place around Singapore. Yes, it took me more than 12 hours to compile this list but anything to help fellow parents out, I say!

So... get ready to have some awesome FUN this June School Holidays!


Numerically, the total count is more than 100 but a lot of the activities actually consist of many other sub-activities too. Case in point: Children's Season 2016 has over 70 programmes for kids but it only counts as 1 activity in my listing.

So how many activities for kids are there exactly this June School Holidays?

I stopped counting after 200.

Even so, I will still continue to update the list regularly as more information trickle in so do check back often!

Let's start with the OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, shall we?


Pesta Ubin 2016
Now until 12 Jun 2016, Various Timings
Pulau Ubin




Pesta Ubin is Ubin Open House! Once a year, people who love Ubin step up to share with the public their special slice of Pulau Ubin. Pesta Ubin activities are heartfelt, organic and led by the community. Passionately highlighting Ubin's unique charms, get a taste of the kinder, gentler way of life on Ubin during Pesta Ubin. Visit pestaubin2016.blogspot.sg for more details.

Ongoing: FREE Treasure Ubin treasure hunt with Treasure SG
Join this mini treasure hunt around Ubin Town, happening every day of Pesta Ubin. Take some time to hunt for hidden treasure tags, learn more about Ubin Town and win attractive prizes! For more information on how to take part, visit HERE.

Ongoing: FREE Kampung Photo Booth & Colouring the big Pulau Ubin Fun Map at Uncle Lim's shop
10am - 4pm daily | Uncle Lim's shop, No. 42 Pulau Ubin, opposite the Wayang Stage, 3 min walk from Ubin Jetty (map)
Drop by Uncle Lim's shop at the centre of Ubin Town and choose from cool props and quirky kampung accessories to have a FREE Kampung makeover! Also, remember to chip in your colouring effort and colour a shared copy of the huge Pulau Ubin Fun Map. FREE for everyone. For more details, visit HERE.

Ongoing: 'Open House' at Pulau Ubin fish farms
9am - 5pm | $15 per person
Find out more about aquaculture in Singapore and the heritage of fish farming in Singapore in this special 'Open House' opportunity every day of Pesta Ubin! Don't miss this unique opportunity to get a glimpse of the community that live and work in the waters off Pulau Ubin.

Suitable for kids aged 8 and above, accompanied by adults. Safety equipment and procedures will be provided and explained. Minimum 4 persons per trip, maximum 10 persons per trip. Subject to availability of free time slots at the farm. Registration required. Visit HERE for registration information.

MAD for Musang! for kids with Cicada Tree Eco-Place
27 May 2016 | 7.30pm - 10pm | Uncle Lim's shop, No. 42 Pulau Ubin, opposite the Wayang Stage, 3 min walk from Ubin Jetty | $10 for participants 5 years and above, to be paid upon meet-up
If you are curious about what Common Palm Civets look like, what they feed on, who may feed on them, and why they are important to humans, join us to learn more! Suitable for kids. Register HERE.

Family Nature Camp with Cicada Tree Eco-Place
3 - 4 Jun 2016 | 9.30am (3 Jun) - 12pm (4 Jun) | Ubin Jetty | Cost to be confirmed
Engage the entire family on a 2 day 1 night camp on Pulau Ubin! Join guides from Cicada Tree Eco-Place camping in a tent at the rustic Ubin Living Lab. Visit HERE for more information.

Bird Watching  at Pekan Quarry
4 Jun 2016 | 730am - 12pm | Pekan Quarry lookout point, near Butterfly Hill, about 300m or 9min walk from Ubin Jetty | FREE
Amazing birds have made Pekan Quarry their home! Be amazed by the birds that live at Pekan Quarry. Ubin bird lovers will be there with telescopes to help you spot beautiful herons, egrets, white bellied sea eagles and more!

Kampong tour with Ubin Npark Volunteers
4 Jun 2016 | 10.30am - 12.30pm & 3.30pm - 5.30pm | HSBC Volunteer Hub | FREE
TTake a walk with Ubin NParks volunteers to experience Ubin's wonderful natural and cultural heritage. The 2.2km trail takes about 2 hours to complete. The tour will start at the Ubin-HSBC Volunteer Hub and take you through the spice trees around Jelutong campsite, Butterfly Hill, Pekan Quarry, Sensory Trail Ponds, Kampong House, Old Bin Kiang School site, Toa Pek Kong Temple and end at the Wayang Stage.

Guided walk of Ubin mangroves
4 Jun 2016 | 10.30 am - 12.30pm & 2pm - 3.30pm | HSBC Volunteer Hub | FREE
FREE walking tour of Ubin's mangroves near Ubin Town. Learn about an exciting ground-up community effort to give Mother Nature a hand in restoring mangroves at abandoned aquaculture ponds on Pulau Ubin.

Stargazing with the NUS Astronomical Society
4 Jun 2016 | 6.30pm - 9pm | Assembly Area opposite the HSBC Volunteer Hub | FREE
See the true beauty of the night sky! The dark skies of Pulau Ubin has less light pollution and thus allow us to better gaze at the stars. Using their telescopes, the NUS Astronomical Society will point out to you popular astronomical objects visible from Singapore. Also learn about astrophotography, that is, how to photograph these astronomical objects. Gain a new appreciation for a dark sky site like Pulau Ubin!

Balik Chek Jawa with the Chek Jawa community
5 Jun 2016 | 9am - 12pm | Chek Jawa Info Kiosk | FREE
From monkeys to wild boar, birds to butterflies, crabs to mudskippers, and fascinating plants of the mangroves and shores, some of which are rare elsewhere. If we are lucky we may encounter otters or even a dugong!

Kayaking Sungei Jelutong with Nature Society (Singapore) and Kayakasia
5 Jun 2016 | At intervals from 9m to 3pm (Each trip will last 1.5 hours including safety briefing) |
Meet at the kayak launching station is located next to Jelutong bridge, near Ah Ma's Drink Stall | $20 
Explore Sungei Jelutong. A gem in the heart of rustic Pulau Ubin, it is one of the most interesting mangrove rivers in Singapore. Join us for a leisurely 1-hour guided paddle where our volunteer guides will share interesting facts on the flora and fauna along the river, the importance of our coastal forests, and what we can do to conserve them. This trip is suitable for both adults and children aged 8 and above.

Ubin's Animal Puppet workshop for children and families by Jacquelyn Soo
5 & 12 Jun 2016 | 1-1.45pm, 2-2.45pm, 3-3.45pm, 4-4.45pm | Uncle Lim's shop opposite the Wayang Stage | $6 per puppet
During the workshop, children will learn to make their own Ubin Animal puppet which they can carry it around the island and pretend to be the animal of the day. Kids can choose to learn to make these Ubin Animals: Otter, Hornbill Bird, Macaque Monkey, Wild Boar and Mousedeer! For children 3 to 12 years old. 

Night Critters Walk by Cicada Tree Eco-Place
10 Jun 2016 | 6.30 - 8.30pm | HSBC Volunteer Hub | $10 for participants 5 years and above
Specially for kids and their families. As dusk falls on Pulau Ubin, shy and secretive nocturnal wildlife start to wake up. Expect to see surprising sightings of native wildlife such as the Musang (Palm Civet Cat), Wild Pigs, and if we are really, really lucky, the Pangolin (Scaly Ant-eater) on our slow easy walk. Registration is compulsory.

Paint a Husk with Hazel Huang
11 & 12 Jun 2016 | 11am - 4pm | HSBC Volunteer Hub | FREE
Anyone can do their part for the environment. Come join in the fun and get your creative juices flowing. Hazel Huang shows you how to turn an unwanted coconut husk into your own beautiful piece of art by painting your vision of a greener environment!

NSS Kids Fun with Creatres of the Night
11 Jun 2016 | 7.45pm - 10pm | HSBC Volunteer Hub | $10
As darkness descends, we will make our way along Ubin’s kampong roads flanked by secondary forest in parts. Move quietly and we might chance upon snakes, civets, and perhaps even glimpse an owl or the Greater Mousedeer. Open to anyone 7 years old and above who must be able to walk quietly and slowly for two hours. Registration is compulsory.

FREE Admission to National Orchid Garden
Now until 26 Jun 2016; 8.30am - 7pm
National Orchid Garden


Enjoy free admission to National Orchid Garden from 21 May to 26 June 2016 for students, local residents and work permit holders.

Summer Splash Carnival
27 May – 26 Jun 2016, 1pm – 10pm daily
City Square Mall, Level 1 City Green (Outdoor Park)

It’s summer time! Pack your beach gear and head down to City Green for some splash­tastic fun. Try your hands at Sand Bowling, test your surf skills at the Mechanical Surfboard or build the fort of your dreams in the Sand Play Pen. Look out for other activities such as Bumper Boats, Frisbee Throw and Inflatable Rock Climb. Remember to check out the spectacular sandcastle display too!

Race Against Time - Science behind a Botanic Garden Tour
28 May 2016; 10am - 11am
Singapore Botanic Gardens, Visitor Services Desk at Tanglin Gate Botany Centre
FREE

This session introduces the research facilities at the Singapore Botanic Gardens such as the Library of Botany & Horticulture, Orchid & Micro-propagation laboratory and the Herbarium. Highlights of  this 45-minute tour includes a visit to the Herbarium which stores physical records of reference plant materials, some dating as far back as 1790.  In addition, learn about the Gardens' hybridization programme for orchids, a process introduced back in 1930’s by the then Director, R.E Holttum.

Registration is required at the Service Desk 15-minutes before the scheduled start time. Slots are limited to 25 people, for ages 9 and above.

Keong Saik Carnival
28 May 2016; 12pm - 10.30pm
Keng Saik Road
FREE Admission


Keong Saik Carnival will showcase the best of yesteryears from legendary local 60’s band to experimental collaborations of traditional Chinese musicians with cutting-edge electronic DJs, as well as avant-rock outfits and the freshest underground sounds of Hip-hop, Bass, House, Funk, Soul & Disco beatsmiths from across Asia.

Accompanying the trad-mod soundscape of the carnival is a street bazaar filled with quirky peddlers ranging from clothing to homeware, cult magazines to vinyl records, pop-up cocktail bars and more. Expect a feast for your senses with live art installations, visual projections on iconic art-deco shophouses, heritage tours, cultural workshops as well as a culinary feast along the streets from carnival tapas to gourmet cuisine to local zi-char and much more by our lovely Keong Saik neighbours.

PlaystreetsSG
28 & 29 May 2016; 4pm - 7pm
Caseen Street in front of STPI, in front of the Alkaff Bridge & all the way to Quayside
FREE


The Singapore Wellness Association is launching PlaystreetsSG, a program that closes streets for families and children to play starting 28 and 29 May (4-7pm) along the Singapore River. Come join in the first ever Play street in Singapore as the fun stations comprising face-painting, chalk art and group games takeover the streets along the beautiful Singapore River so that your children and inner child can come out to play. Every Playstreet has been curated with multiple facilitated stations that require participants to run, challenge their memories, socialise, stay active and have fun. For more information, visit HERE.

Meet & Greet: Ang Ku Kueh Girl
28 May 2016
12.15pm – 12.40pm & 12.55pm – 1.20pm
The Maritime Experiential Museum, RWS
Adult $5 | Child $3 (4-12)

Part of Imagine | Native, a creative fest for kids. For more details, visit HERE.

Sentosa FunFest 2016
28 May - 5 June 2016 (28 May SOLD OUT)
10am - 7pm (last entry at 4.30pm)
Palawan Green, Sentosa
Adult $28 | Child (3-12) $18 | Child below 3 FREE | Bundle for 4: $82.80

Sentosa FunFest, Singapore’s only mega beach festival is making its return with an exciting line-up of inflatables and water-based adventures for the whole family! Kicking off the school holidays, Singapore’s biggest beach festival will return for its second edition on Palawan Green at Sentosa. Set against the island backdrop of sun, sea and sand, families can enjoy endless fun at this giant play area with larger-than-life inflatables, water-oriented fun, obstacle courses and more. Visit HERE for more information. Highlights include:


Fun Water Slide
Climb in, climb up, slide down, climb out - rinse and repeat! Nothing beats the classic fun of a giant water slide!

Kiddy Amazing Maze
Let your kids run wild in the amazing inflatable maze! Kids can play a thrilling game of hide & seek or catching, as they dodge sprays of water coming in from the sides, and navigate their way safely through the maze.

Bubbly Foam Pool
Jump into the Foam Pool and enjoy loads of bubbly fun with your kids!

Playful Sand Pit
A mega beach festival wouldn't be complete without a sand pit for the kids to build sandcastles and more! Watch your kids have fun as they work on their sandy creations in the sand pits!

For the older kids and sportive parents, more adventures await as they overcome the Rope Swinging obstacle or challenge each other with the Nerf Blasters. The event will also feature new inflatable activities such as Cliff Jump, Balance Beam and Traversing Wall.

DBS Marina Regatta 2016
28 - 29 May & 4 - 5 Jun 2016
11am - 10pm
The Promontory @ Marina Bay
FREE Admission

DBS Marina Regatta 2016 returns with bold new experiences on- and off-water over two weekends on 28-29 May and 4-5 June. Singapore’s biggest water sports fest by the bay will once more see the region’s top dragon boating teams battle it out beneath the iconic Marina Bay skyline. DBS Marina Regatta 2016 is poised to be one of the most ambitious festivals yet to be held by the Bay, with Singapore’s only urban pop-up beach making a bigger and bolder comeback together with the debut of Southeast Asia’s TALLEST inflatable water slide!


Open from 11am to 8pm on both weekends, the slide stands at a prominent 16m with slides sloping at about 45 degrees. Tackle the slide for a good cause – at S$10 for five rides – all proceeds raised will go to SPD, a non-profit organisation that helps people with disabilities develop their potential to the fullest so that they can be self-reliant and independent. To ride the slide, participants must be at least 110cm tall and a minimum of five years old. The beach also comes with a packed programme of non-stop activities for families and urbanites alike. Board sports enthusiasts can try their hand at stand-up paddling and yoga sessions, while kids can explore the kayaking, zorbing, and obstacle courses. For more details and timings of the activities, visit HERE.

Gardens Reminisces - A Glimpse into the Gardens' Heritage
28 May & 4 Jun 2016; 9.30am - 11am
Singapore Botanic Gardens
FREE, but Registration required. Details below.


Car-Free Sunday SG
29 May 2016; 5am - 7pm
Padang and surrounding area
FREE Admission


On every last Sunday of the month, the Civic and Central Business District will be transformed into a cycle-friendly, walkable and activity-filled public space with something for everyone as roads around the Padang, together with Fullerton Road, will be fully closed to vehicles. Whether you are into yoga, dance, basketball, fun challenges, visiting the museums or just enjoying the day out with your friends or children, there are a range of exciting activities you can enjoy. For a detailed listing and timings of all activities, visit HERE.

Families For Life Celebrations 2016
29 May 2016; 7.30am - 10pm
Civic District
FREE Admission


Held in conjunction with Car-Free Sunday SG on 29 May 2016, all families and their extended family members are welcome to participate in a day of fun-filled activities that encourage family bonding and quality time spent together.

Morning Highlights
“Get Active with Families for Life” in the morning with an energising walk along closed roads at the Civic District. It’s a great way to bond with your family and extended family, and if you are spotted as the ‘Largest Family Contingent’, you might even win $500 worth of dining vouchers! In addition, no matter if you are a cool dad, mum or grandparent, dress up with your own creative family outfit, and you may stand to bring home the title of the ‘Best Dressed Family’ and a $500 worth of dining vouchers! For those who are especially active – come and sweat it out with family-friendly workouts like Bolly DaZz,  Bokwa and Zumba.

And of course, what’s breakfast without a picnic? Hop down to Empress Lawn and have your very own family breakfast picnic and enjoy some local hawker delights together. We are giving away free picnic mats too, so grab yours and join us at Empress Lawn!

Evening Highlights
Wind down your weekend and "Chill Out with Families for Life" with a relaxing evening picnic, over local music performances and hawker delights. There will also be lots of other fun family-friendly activities such as buskers, arts and crafts, and of course our Families for Life bouncy castles and signature mobile café! Up for more family fun? You can even decorate your own unique family cardboard car and enjoy a unique ‘drive-in’ movie screening experience.

For more details, visit HERE.

Fantasy Garden 2016 (梦幻花园2016)
29 May 2016; 6pm - 7pm
Singapore Botanic Gardens, Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage
FREE

People’s Association Youth Chinese Orchestra (PAYCO), a full-fledged orchestra involving multi-ethnic musicians will be performing with their traditional instruments to compositions that embrace Singapore’s multi-cultural identity and global flavour.  The performance will showcase People’s Association leading role in promoting racial harmony and strengthening Singapore’s multi-ethnic heritage through music and dance, including classical Chinese melodies, familiar folks tunes such as Di Tanjong Katong, Munneru Valiba as well as popular pop song Mambo No. 5.

Bonfire Festival 2016
3 - 12 Jun 2016; Various timings


Save your dates as Bornfire Festival celebrates its 10th edition this June 3-12! Over 10 days of creative learning and sharing, Bornfire Festival will feature artists from both local and international like Japan, Germany, Italy, Taiwan, and many more!

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS:

FRI | June 3 | at the Esplanade 
- Festival Opening Show (FREE!)

SAT | June 4 | at the Esplanade 
- Festival Opening Show (FREE!)
- Circus Games (FREE!)

SUN | June 5 | at the Esplanade 
- Festival Opening Show (FREE!)
- Circus Games (FREE!)

TUE | June 7 | Kallang Community Club
- Circus Talks (FREE!)

FRI | June 10 | Victoria Theatre 
- GALA SHOW

SAT | June 11 | Kallang Community Club
- Battle Stage (FREE!)

SUN | June 12 | Kallang Community Club
- Circus Games (FREE!)
- Improvisation Stage (FREE!)

For other workshop and Gala Show details, visit HERE.

Family Time Precious Time @ Enabling Village
4 Jun 2016; 3pm - 9pm
Enabling Village
FREE Admission


Enjoy family time while supporting the integration of people with disabilities in the community. There are lots of fun family activities such as the fun Family Workout sessions (by iFit) and Food Decoration Classes (by SHATEC chef) at the Enabling Village. There's also bouncy castle and art & craft corner for the little ones. Come support the donation drive booth, with a donation of $10 receive a limited edition Families for Life Picnic Bag and Sharity Elephant keychain. If you are lucky, you might even catch Sharity Elephant's appearance! Enjoy an indoor movie screening of the animated movie of the adorable Minions! For more details, visit HERE.

Aviva Superfundae
4 Jun 2016; 10am - 9pm
Gardens by the Bay, The Meadow
$19.90


Singapore’s first ‘funival’, Aviva Superfundae 2016, is back again this year! The largest playdate in town where imaginative and wild activities come into play, gather your family, disconnect the digital gadgets and have an afternoon of fun in the sun! Held at The Meadow, Gardens by the Bay on 4 June 2016, there are more than 30 non-stop games and activities, spread across five thematically-designed fun zones – Circus Centre, Speedy Zone, Dream Castel, Pirate Island, and Jungle World. For more details and tickets, visit HERE.

Coney Island Park Guided Tour 
4, 18 & 25 Jun 2016; 9am - 11am
Coney Island, West Entrance
FREE, but registration required

Did you know that Coney Island Park has a very interesting history? Come follow NParks' volunteer guide to find out more and learn more about the interesting flora and fauna found on the island.

4 Jun: Register HERE
18 Jun: Register HERE
25 Jun: Register HERE

Opera in the Park
4 Jun 2016; 6pm - 7pm
Singapore Botanic Gardens, Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage
FREE

Launched since June 2008 at Singapore Botanic Gardens, Opera in the Park is an outreach programme by the Singapore Lyric Opera (SLO), which aims to expand the opera experience to a wider audience. This outdoor event offers popular favourites from musicals and operas. Audiences are encouraged to bring family and friends and have a picnic at the concert.

Ah Meng-zing Experience
4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 & 26 Jun 2016
Various Timings
Singapore Zoo
Activities are free but normal admission rates apply


Singapore Zoo’s recently crowned animal icon, Ah Meng, beckons the public to learn more about herself and her wild friends over the weekends of 4-26 June 2016. Singapore Zoo transforms into a living classroom every weekend this June to show visitors, parents and children alike, the small things they can do to help save the planet and the animals that share it. Guests can discover and appreciate wildlife through a diverse range of activities, including meet and greet sessions with larger than life mascots, inventive craft workshops, and enlightening animal enrichment trails.

Zoolympix 2016: Be a Wildlife Zooperhero
Transform into wildlife Zooperheroes and learn all about saving animals and conserving wildlife!
Date: 4 – 26 Jun 2016 (weekends only) *Zoolympix is also available from 6 – 10 June
Time: 10am – 4pm (Last registration time: 3.30pm)
Registration location: Rainforest Courtyard
$2 for Zoolympix Booklet

Wild Snaps!
Snap a wild photo with our mascots to remember your day out!
Date: 4 – 26 Jun (weekends only)
Time: 10am, 12pm, 4pm (30mins)
Venue: Singapore Zoo Entrance Plaza

Ah Meng-zing Crafts
Make your own bookmarks, finger puppets and bottle cap magnet to complete your Ah Meng-zing experience!
Date: 4 – 26 Jun (weekends only)
Time: 10am – 4pm
Venue: Pavilion Next to Rainforest Kidzworld

Animal Enrichment Sessions
See how animals sharpen their primal instincts with special “toys” made by our keepers!
Date: 4 – 26 Jun (weekends only)
Time / Venue:Refer to Animal Enrichment schedule at the park entrance.

Manatee Madness
4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 & 26 Jun 2016
Various Timings
River Safari
Activities are free but normal admission rates apply

Manatee Feeding & Presentation Sessions
Watch as the manatees graze, and ask our aquarist all your burning questions.
Date: 4 – 26 Jun 2016 (weekends only)
Time: 12.15pm & 5.30pm
Venue: Amazon Flooded Forest

Mascot Meet & Greet
Snap a photo with your favourite manatee mascot.
Date: 4 – 26 Jun 2016 (weekends only)
Time: 10.30am, 12.30pm, 4.30pm
Venue: River Safari Entrance

Art & Craft Sessions
Make your own manatee badge, clay figurine or express your creativity with customized clothes pegs.
Date: 4 – 26 Jun 2016 (weekends only)
Time: 10.00am – 4.00pm
Venue: River Safari Entrance

3D Photo Wall
Trick your senses by taking photos with our mind-boggling 3D photo walls.
Date: 4 – 26 Jun 2016
Venue: Panda Courtyard & Boat Plaza

Generations of Fun
4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 & 26 Jun 2016
Various Timings
Jurong Bird Park
Activities are free but normal admission rates apply

Game Stalls and Craft Activities
Date: 4 – 26 Jun 2016 (weekends only)
Time: 10.00am – 4.00pm
Venue: Birdz of Play and outside Penguin Coast

Mascot Meet & Greet
Date: 4 – 26 Jun 2016 (weekends only)
Time: 12.30pm & 2.30pm
Venue: Jurong Bird Park Entrance

Breeding & Research Centre Guided Tour
Date: 4 – 26 Jun 2016 (weekends only)
Time: 11.45am
Venue: Breeding & Research Centre

Jungle Jewels Feeding Session
Date: 4 – 26 Jun 2016 (weekends only)
Time: 1.50pm
Venue: Jungle Jewels

High Flyers Show Pioneer Edition
Date: 4 – 26 Jun 2016 (weekends only)
Time: 11.00am & 3.00pm
Venue: Pools Amphitheatre

Wake up with Zespri
5 Jun 2016; 8.30am - 11.30am
Empress Lawn
FREE Admission


Rise and shine at the first Zespri SunGold Kiwifest dedicated to positive and healthy mornings for all ages! Do not miss out on all the free workouts, music performances, take-home goodies, and Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit treats! Entry is free for all! Visit HERE for more information.

Opera in the Park
5 Jun 2016; 5pm - 6.30pm
Singapore Botanic Gardens, Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage
FREE

Indulge your Sunday afternoon as an exciting line-up of homegrown acts from heart-thumping percussive beats by Bloco Singapura to soothing vocals by Juz-B and Jack & Rai await. Fringe activities will start from 4.30pm. Mark the date down and join us this 5th June!


SAFRA Punggol Waterway Challenge
11 Jun 2016; From 7.30am
SAFRA Punggol


The inaugural SAFRA Punggol Waterway Challenge is here! Run, ride and row your way through various fun and exciting challenges along the scenic Punggol Waterway and Coney Island for a splashing good time. Grab your gear, and start training with your buddy, partner or the little ones because there’s a category for everyone! Registration closes on 29 May 2016. Visit HERE for more information and to register.

Connecting with Nature - Bird Watching along the Southern Ridges
11 Jun 2016; 7.30am - 9.30am
Mount Faber Park, Entrance of Henderson Waves

Join a bird watching tour at the Southern Ridges, where up to 43 species of birds have been spotted so far. This tour will take you through the Forest Walk and the Singing Forest in search of these beautiful birds. Do bring along a pair of binoculars or a camera with a zoom function for a better experience.

SAFRA Sprint Kids 2016
11, 12, 18 & 19 Jun 2016; 11am - 6pm


Following the success of the SAFRA Sprint Kids Xtreme Army Days edition last year, Sprint Kids is back again this year for a second edition with a scaled up, more impactful relay-style competition featuring unique challenges inspired by the Singapore Armed Forces’ Standard Obstacle Course (SOC)! Team up with a parent or rope in the whole family for a fun time scaling the Apex ladder or challenge yourself on the balancing bridge and stand to win amazing prizes! To register, visit HERE.

Singles Category
Sat & Sun, 11 & 12 Jun (Heats) @ SAFRA Jurong
Sat, 18 Jun (Semi & Finals) @ Singapore Sports Hub

Family and Child Category/ Families For Life Challenge 
Sun, 19 Jun @ Singapore Sports Hub

Storytelling Comes Alive! with MY LITTLE PONY
11 Jun - 17 Jul 2016; 10.30am - 7pm daily
Sentosa, Palawan Area
FREE Admission


The Palawan area will be transformed into the magical world of Equestria come 11 June – 17 July 2016. The island’s iconic event – Storytelling Comes Alive! – will take on a different approach this year by inviting guests to walk literally into the world of MY LITTLE PONY with larger-than-life displays, 3D artistic illusions and digital interactive features. For the first time in Singapore, visitors can immerse themselves in the stories of MY LITTLE PONY at Ponyville, Cloudsdale and Everfree Forest.

MY LITTLE PONY Picnic & Movie Screening
9 Jul 2016 | 5.30pm - 9pm

All-New Soak Out Water Party at Universal Studios Singapore
13 Jun - 10 Aug 2016 (30 minutes per session)
3.00pm daily & 5.30pm on Saturdays
Universal Studios Singapore
Admission fees apply


Adrenaline-seekers can enjoy cutting-edge rides and attractions and take part in the all-new Soak Out Water Party with the Minions, Sesame Street friends and more at Universal Studios Singapore. From 13 June to 10 August 2016, visitors can immerse in a festive parade that runs through select zones in the park and have a splashing good time at the Lagoon Stage in the Hollywood zone with close to 50 characters and entertainers grooving to catchy music and engaging in water play fun.

The party culminates in a water cannon blast, alongside high-flying aerialists who will give revellers a refreshing cool-down in the park. Visitors can continue to chill out in an evening after-party at the New York Public Library with live performances by DJ Inquisitive and the Good Karma band on select Friday and Saturday nights.

Connecting with Nature - Fun Walk along The Southern Ridges
18 Jun 2016; 9am - 11am
Mount Faber Park, Entrance of Henderson Waves

Take your family on a leisure stroll through southern ridges, a soothing sanctuary of greenery that is not only steeped in history but also home to some of Singapore's most exciting flora and fauna. Highlights of the tour included the Henderson Waves, Sembcorp Forest of the Giants, Forest Walk and the Singing Forest.

Papa-razzi Run
18 Jun 2016; 9am - 11am
SAFRA Yishun
$5 (Junior Member) | $10 (Junior Guest) | Free for fathers

Fathers join for free! Join in at the inaugural father-child leisure run at SAFRA Yishun. Enjoy fringe activities and free brunch for all registered runners.

RETRO FEVER @ Gardens by the Bay
25 Jun 2016; 7pm - 10pm
Supertree Grove
FREE Admission


Put on your best retro outfit and favourite pair of dancing shoes, and join us at one of the biggest retro-themed parties in town! Groove to the hottest tunes from the 60s, 70s and 80s, and catch a specially curated LED performance with pyrotechnics on the OCBC Skyway – a first in the Gardens!  Mediacorp Radio Class 95FM DJ Jean Danker will also play host on this throwback Saturday night.

NParks Concert Series in the Park: Rockestra
25 Jun 2016; 5.30pm - 10pm
Empress Place, Empress Lawn
FREE Admission

Join in for a night of good food and good music from the 50s to 90s at the second instalment of NParks Concert Series in the Park: Rockestra® on 25 June 2016 at Empress Place (Empress Lawn)!

Held in conjunction with ‘Satay Night Live’, this concert promises a nostalgic experience and plenty of Satay as we bring you the golden hits of yesteryears performed by Jive Talkin’, Sebastian Tan aka Broadway Beng, Jack & Rai, Ciao Turtle, ShiLi & Adi, The Pinholes, Dee Dee and Alia. Family-friendly fringe activities start at 5.30pm while the concert commences at 6.30pm.

Kranji Countryside Farmers' Market
25 & 26 Jun 2016; 12pm - 5pm
Nyee Phoe
FREE Admission


Indulge in 50 stalls of local produce and locally-made artisanal products, and a weekend filled with community-driven education and entertainment! Visit HERE for updates.

SAFRA Yishun Open House 2016
25 & 26 Jun 2016; 10am - 5pm
SAFRA Yishun
$5 (SAFRA Member) | $10 (Guest)

Enjoy adventure-filled activities such as Canopy Challenge Walk, Rock Climbing and Pool Kayaking! Look forward to tons of fun for all ages over these two days. First 200 participants each day will receive an exclusive goodie bag.

Batman v Superman Run 5km Fun Run
26 Jun 2016; 8am
Sentosa
From $50


Choose your side and race for your team this June, with a five-kilometre timed fun run around the Sentosa Island. For more information and to register, visit HERE.

LEGO Star Wars Day 2016
Now until 31 May 2016
LEGOLAND Malaysia
Admission Fess apply


Throughout the whole month of May, the park will host LEGO Star Wars Days activities transporting families into hyperspace and to a galaxy far far away.... LEGO Star Wars Days activities during the month of May include:

Build and Take home a Mini Millennium Falcon
Every weekend in May 2016
Bring home a piece of the action by building your own mini limited edition LEGO Millennium Falcon as a take-home reminder of the day's amazing LEGO Star Wars memories!

Kids enter LEGOLAND Malaysia FREE for the whole month of May 2016 when they go dressed in full Star Wars costumes!



ActiveSG June School Holiday Fun


The school holidays are here again! Keep active, be happy and be sporty - definitely a fun way to relax before school bell starts ringing again! If you are a Singapore citizen or a Permanent Resident, sign up as ActiveSG members and use your ActiveSG dollars to offset the payment (up to 30%) for the programmes. Visit HERE for a detailed list of sporting programmes.


And the activities just keep coming as we move on to the INDOOR ACTIVTIES.


ACT 3i Festival
24 May - 5 Jun 2016
Various performances
Drama Centre


Dedicated to children from 2 to 12 year olds and packed with exquisite, high quality and awe-inspiring theatre performances, ACT 3i Festival for Children aims to give young audiences a unique and memorable experience that is different from broad-based children’s entertainment to enrich their lives through Arts and Culture. For the full programme listing, visit act3international.com.sg/act3ifestival/.

READY! SET! ZO!
25 - 29 May 2016; 10am & 2pm
The Substation
$24


Ready! Set! Zo! is a tongue-in-cheek re-telling of the popular story of the Chinese Zodiac and how the animals got their place on the Lunar Calendar! Join the contestants as they brave all odds to make it across the raging river! This is the race of a lifetime where mischief meets hard work, determination and grace! So if you’re READY, Get SET… and lets ZO! Suitable for ages 6 to 13 years. For tickets, visit HERE.

Asian Festival Of Children’s Content 2016
25 - 29 May 2016, Various Timings
L1, Plaza, National Library Building
FREE Admission


The Asian Festival of Children’s Content (AFCC) aims to celebrate and promote the creation and appreciation of children’s books and content, with a focus on Asian themes. This year, the 5-day festival will feature Japan as the Country of Focus, as well as over 100 local and international speakers including authors, illustrators, publishers, and industry professionals. From songs and skits to artistry duels, AFCC brings you a myriad of FREE activities that you and your family can enjoy - visit HERE for the detailed programme list.

Popular Un.Un.Un.Unbelievable Sale
26 - 29 May 2016; 10am - 9pm
Singapore Expo Hall 5B
FREE Admission


5th French Animation Film Festival
27 - 29 May 2016; Various Timings
Alliance Française de Singapour (1 Sarkies Road, S258130)


As part of Voilah! French festival Singapore, French Animation Film Festival is coming back for the enjoyment of adults and children. 6 movies are on the headline including the much-awaited The Little Prince. During this 5th edition, meet some of the most prominent talents in today’s film animation: interact with HAN Liane-Cho, Animation Director of our opening movie on Friday. Follow Cocoro and enter the set of an animated movie with free 3D-printing and stop-motion workshops from Saturday to Sunday. For full program listing, visit HERE.

Angry Birds Meet & Greet
27 & 28 May, 3, 4, 10 & 11 Jun 2016; Various Timings
Various McDonald's Restaurants


Angry Birds @ Suntec City
27 May - 26 June 2016; 12pm - 8pm daily
Suntec City, North Atrium (between Tower 1 and 2)


The North Atrium will be transformed into the resplendent Bird Island – the cinematic home of Angry Birds. The grassy terrain, towering trees and sandy beaches of the animated Bird Island are brought to life through an elaborate set design, complete with a bouncy inflatable. Kaboom and Piggy Puncher mimic retro carnival games, where shoppers use their body strength to hit specific target points – the harder you hit, the more points you score. Another highlight of Bird Island, the Bouncy Mountain is a special custom-designed bouncy inflatable resembling Mighty Eagle Mountain as depicted in The Angry Birds Movie. Standing at 4 metres tall with a slide feature, the bouncy inflatable will keep the wee ones entertained while their parents shop in peace. To enter Bird Island, shoppers simply have to spend S$50 to redeem three play passes.

Meet Angry Birds: Red, Chuck and Bomb
2 - 12 Jun 2016
Thur  Fri 1pm & 7pm | Sat & Sun 1pm, 4pm & 7pm | No sessions on Mon & Wed
Suntec City, North Atrium (Between Tower 1 and 2)

Making appearances at Suntec City’s Bird Island is none other than Red, an angry bird with a temper, speedy Chuck and the volatile Bomb. All it takes is a minimum spend of S$50 for shoppers to get to take photos with the mascots. Limited to 50 passes per session.

Flipside 2016
27 May - 5 Jun 2016
Various performance timings
The Esplanade


Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay’s quirkiest festival, Flipside is back! From 27 May – 5 Jun 2016, flip over to the lighter side of the arts and discover the arts from a refreshingly different and quirky perspective. Featuring a host of work by both Singapore and international artists, let loose and have fun at the 10-day festival featuring a variety of whimsical and wacky performances for all ages. For a full detailed programme listing, visit HERE.

Highlights of Flipside include:
- Metamorphosis by Iceland’s World of Puppets, is a fascinating collection of original short stories, told not with words, but with the metaphorical grace of puppets.
- With hands and arms as their only performing tools, Russia’s Hand Made Theatre presents Time for Fun. Watch them create many images to capture your imagination!
- Two brothers, one microphone. Don’t Explain, presented by Australian comedy duo The Umbilical Brothers, have delighted fans all around the world, twisting everyday situations and theatrical rules into comedy triumph.

Imagine | Native
27 May – 12 Jun 2016
The Maritime Experiential Museum. Resorts World Sentosa
Child (4-12) $3 | Adult $5


Combining performances, talks, workshops, and a host of fun activities all set to an exciting marine theme, this is one educational fair that is truly designed to inspire your kids and nurture their creativity. For where else can you meet authors, illustrators, other book lovers... together with creatures from the deep? For more information and programme timings, visit HERE.

G'Day Australia @ Changi Airport
27 May - 26 Jun 2016; 12pm - 11pm daily
Changi Airport, T3 Departure Hall, L2 (Public Area)


Meet & Greet Hi-5
28 & 29 May 2016
Show times to be confirmed

Ride the Adventure Trail
Spend $60 in 2 same-day receipts to experience the thrills of the Australian Outback on the addenture ride!

VR Adventures
Hop onto the Virtual Reality sailboat or jeep for a taste of the Australian adrenaline rush!

Summer FamBam! @ United Square
27 May - 27 Jun 2016
United Square Mall

Powerpuff Girls Summer Event @ United Square
27 - 29 May 2016


Blossom, Bubbles and Butttercup are back to save the day! Kick off the June School Holiday at United Square with the Powerpuff Girls Summer Fun event! To celebrate the return of its popular hit series, Cartoon Network will be hosting a three-day Powerpuff Girl themed family event at United Square! Come down and enjoy a full line-up of on-stage performances, games, activities and win some great prizes too.

Summer Fun Event:
Friday - Sunday – 12pm to 8pm

Meet & Greet:
Friday – 6pm | Saturday and Sunday – 12pm, 4pm & 7pm
No spending required for Powerpuff Girls Meet & Greet. Based on first-come-first served.


Dream Big Disney Princess @ United Square
4 - 12 Jun 2016


Your dream has only just begun at United Square with Dream Big Disney Princess Event. Explore the
enchanting world of Disney Princess with activities, merchandise, and endless magic. Complete all
activities to receive a special token from the Disney Princess. Dream Big Princess is an immersive
experience you wouldn’t want to miss! And for the first time in Asia, enjoy a FREE meet and greet sessions with Cinderella too!

Meet & Greet: Cinderella
Monday - Friday – 5pm & 7pm | Saturday and Sunday – 1pm, 3pm, 5pm & 7pm | (No Meet & Greet on Tue
No spending required for Cinderella Meet & Greet. Based on first-come-first served.

Workshop Hours:
Monday - Friday –12noon - 7pm | Saturday and Sunday – 11am - 8pm
Spend $80* in a single same-day retail receipt at United Square or OneKM to redeem a Disney
Princess Activity Pass. *Same spending receipt will also receive a  OneKM Glacier Adventure Pass.

Hi-5 Fun and Games @ United Square 
15 - 27 Jun 2016


Hi-5 continues their journey at United Square with some Fun and Games! Experience a dance party
extravaganza with lots of music, party games and non-stop dancing. Get up close and personal with Hi-5 after their performance when you spend $50 in a single same day receipt at any retail outlet at United Square.

Showtimes / Meet & Greet:
Monday to Sunday – 2pm, 5pm & 7pm | No shows and meet & greet on Tue
Spend $50 in a single retail receipt at United Square to redeem a Meet & Greet photo queue
number. Limited to first 50 families per session.

Summer FamBam! @ OneKM Mall
27 Jun - 7 Jul 2016

Hi-5 Summer Songfest @ OneKM Mall
31 May - 12 Jun 2016


Come and party with Hi-5 this summer holiday! This Songfest extravaganza will include all your
favourite Hi-5 songs to sing and dance along with. Put on your dancing shoes and groove to Hi-5 hits.
Get up close and personal with Hi-5 after their performance when you spend $50 in a single sameday
receipt at any retail outlet at OneKM. Bring along your camera to capture these precious
moments on stage!

Showtimes / Meet & Greet:
Monday to Sunday – 2pm, 5pm & 7pm | No shows and meet & greet on 6 & 7 Jun
Spend $50 in a single same-day retail receipt at OneKM to redeem a Meet & Greet photo queue
number. Limited to first 50 families per session.

Glacier Adventure @ OneKM Mall
16 - 30 Jun 2016

Following last year's Dinosaur Adventure's success, this June School Holidays sees the second wave of Prehistoric Adventure. Moving on to Ice Ageput on your skates and glide around ‘life-size’ mammals. From the iconic wolly mammoth to the legendary megaloceros, see them move and hear them roar! Widen your understanding of the mammals with an adventure trail after the ice skating session.

Adventure Hours:
Monday to Friday – 12pm to 7pm | Saturday and Sunday – 11am to 7pm
Spend $80* in a single same-day retail receipt at OneKM or United Square to redeem an activity
pass which entitles you to a Prehistoric Adventure Trail and an Ice Skating Rink session at OneKM.
*Same spending receipt will also receive a United Square Disney Princess Activity Pass.

Children's Season 2016
28 May - 26 Jun 2016
Various Dates & Various Timings
Various National Heritage Board and Museum Roundtable museums
FREE


Chase down some fun this June during the annual Children’s Season! From 28 May to 26 June 2016, bring your young ones and the young-at-heart on a trip to discover heritage, art, culture, and science, as well as other everyday aspects of life in Singapore.

With dedicated children’s exhibitions and interactive activities to delight and enlighten, including Masak Masak at the National Museum of Singapore, Once Upon a Time in Asia: The Missing Mouse at the Asian Civilisations Museum, and Shaking It With Shakespeare at the Singapore Philatelic Museum, it will be a fun time for all! With more than 70 programmes specially designed for the young at 27 museums around our island, get ready to put on your explorer’s boots and embark on the ninth edition of the much-loved Children’s Season.

*I will be curating a list of must-see and must-do activities soon! In the meantime, visit www.museums.com.sg/cs16/programmes for the entire listing of programmes available.

Young Children’s Concert – The Little Adventurer of SCO:
Mathematics Equation in Music!
28 May 2016; 2.30pm & 5pm
SCO Concert Hall
$25


This year,  go on a math and music journey by exploring the mystery of music score and learn how music notations can be turned into various math formulas! You will also meet with different animal friends, including singing parrots, cheeky little monkeys and panda during the concert. For tickets, visit HERE.

Pre-concert Activity: Rhythm Workshop and Tambourine Making Workshop
28 May 2016 (Sat) | 1,30pm & 4pm | Singapore Conference Hall Level 1

Brain Fest 2016
28 & 29 May 2016; Various actvities
Science Centre Singapore
Activities for Brain Fest are free, but admission fees apply


Mass Escape Game: The Heroes Inc. Recruitment
Time: 11am; 12.30pm; 2pm; 3.30pm; 5pm
Venue: Marquee
Duration: 1.5 h (including pre- and post- activity briefing)
Suitable for Primary 5 and above

THInc. – The Heroes Inc., is looking for the next generation of heroes that not only have physical strength, but also the mental prowess to ensure continued peace on Earth. The lead heroes headed by Maestro Mind have designed a series of challenges to stretch the mental capabilities of recruits and test if they are suitable to be part of the team. Step into Sciento-Sapien’s laboratory for a creativity feast and withstand Sir Akhitekton’s deception. Do you have what it takes to join THInc.?  Recruits will be given 45 min to prove their worth.

Superfood for Amazing Brain Talk
Venue: Maxwell Auditorium
Duration: 30 min
Date: 28 – 29 May
Time: 11.30 am, 2.30 pm
Suitable for students and public

Can the food we eat affect our brain’s health? By eating smart, we can look forward to a healthier brain and better memory. But what are the superfood which helps maintain our brain? Do join us in our talk by scientists from Cerebos to find out more.

Roald Dahl's The Witches
28 & 29 May 2016
28 May 11am | 29 May 1pm
Ulu Pandan CC Theatrette
$32


This spellbinding production of Roald Dahl's award-winning story has all the answers. If you adore the book, and love the film, you will scream with delight when you see this Roald Dahl classic brought to life on stage. Roald Dahl's The Witches promises to be a spine-tingling treat for the whole family, be sure to catch it! For tickets, visit HERE.

Wan Qing Weekend:  Shanghai Splendour
28 & 29 May 2016; 6pm - 10pm
Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall
FREE Admission

Take a trip back in time at Wan Qing Weekend:  Shanghai Splendour! As the night falls, come enjoy the golden jazz hits of yesteryear and dance the night away, or immerse in the exhibitions at Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall. The Memorial Hall’s latest special exhibition, Early Chinese Newspapers in Singapore (1881 – 1942), will also open till late.

Big Eyes, Big Minds - Singapore International Children's Film Festival
28 & 29 May, 4 Jun 2016, Various Timings
National Gallery Singapore
$13


The first and only film festival in Singapore dedicated to kids, Big Eyes, Big Minds showcases the best films for children from around the world. These include live-action shorts, animation and documentaries which are made for kids, about kids and sometimes, by kids too! All Big Eyes, Big Minds programmes and workshops are thoughtfully curated to engage children, enrich their worldview and inspire them to think and express themselves creatively. For more details and tickets, visit HERE.

Candyland Balloon Sculpture Carnival
28 May - 5 Jun 2016; 11am - 9pm
AMK Hub, Level 4
FREE


Welcome to Balloon Candyland and have candylicious fun posing as Charlie at the Chocolate Factory House balloon display, explore cupcake and a humongous birthday cake, and resist the temptation to bite into the colourful lollipops. Snap wacky selfies with larger-than-life balloon sculptures of these candylicious treats, and take part in fringe activities that are fun for the whole family. Step your way to Level 4 for a sweet experience!

Balloon Treats, Daily, 1pm
Receive a free balloon sculpture on the house.

Kids Balloon Workshop, Daily, 4pm
Learn to twist and sculpt balloons at our complimentary workshop. Limited to the first 20 children per session.

Fun Insta-snaps, Sat & Sun, 7pm
Capture a pose of yourself with your family or friends against our candy-themed balloon photoframe backdrop, in an instant print for free! With professional lightings, photographer, props and a free 4R print-out.

Carnival Treats, Mon – Fri, 7pm
Try your hand at our carnival booths to win sweet treats.

Adventure with Tayo the Little Bus
28 May - 10 Jun 2016
Fri - Sun 2pm, 4pm  7pm | Tue - Thur 3pm & 7pm
Marina Square, Atrium


Get set for an adventure with Tayo The Little Bus & Friends as they debut with a live stage show in Singapore! Enjoy an entertaining and colourful journey as the little buses bring cheers of delight.
The first 60 families in the queue can also meet and greet Tayo, Lani & Rogi on stage! Admission on a first come, first served basis. Passes will be distributed at the entrance 20 minutes prior to each session.

CBeebies Live: Teletubbies & Super Numtum Live Show + Meet & Greet
28 May - 19 Jun 2016 (Weekends only)
4.30pm & 7pm
Event Square @ Downtown East
FREE Admission


Have a memorable school holiday this June with CBeebies! Featuring live shows and meet-and-greet sessions with the Teletubbies and Super Numtum, your kids are guaranteed to have an enjoyable and fun-filled time!

June School Holidays @ National Gallery Singapore
June School Holidays Weekends, Various timings
National Gallery Singapore
FREE Admission for Singapore Citizens & PRs


Family Weekends
Date: Every Saturday & Sunday
Time: 11am – 6pm (last admission at 5.30pm)

Held every weekend, Family Weekends feature a line-up of parent-child programmes that use the Gallery's collection as a springboard to introduce little ones to art. Designed in collaboration with artists and art practitioners, the programmes offer interactive performances to awaken children's natural curiosities and stretch their imagination to a whole new level!

Some highlights include:

Stories in Art
Time: 3.30 – 4pm
Let your imagination run wild with interactive storytelling by trained drama facilitators. Narratives delivered through performance storytelling will imbue familiar (or unfamiliar) artworks with a newfound sense of wonder.

Sketch Sundays
Time: 3 – 4.30pm
Through these artist-led demonstrations, families will be able to engage in drawing sessions in the heart of the galleries. Take some time to be inspired by the fascinating collections, and pick up some new skills along the way.

Drop-in Craft
Time: 11am – 6pm
With an art kit and theme inspired by the Gallery’s collection, this activity invites parents and children alike to interact creatively through art-making.

Art Explorers
Time: 11am-2pm
This intimate programmme invites young ones to see artworks in the collection from a different perspective. Focusing on the artists and their masterpieces, it involves hands-on activities and detailed observation techniques.

Common Grounds
Date: 11 – 12 June 2016 | Time: 11am – 6pm

Based on the programming theme of “Home” for 2016, the June edition of Common Grounds features a mix of programmes inspired by the Gallery’s collections. Some highlights include:

Pop-up Street Scape
The National Gallery Singapore’s basement concourse will be transformed into a living streetscape with thematised art activities and stalls! Enjoy traditional snacks like kacang putih, or take part in traditional games as we travel back in time to the street stalls of the past.

Art Alive! Unique Photo Opportunities with Featured Artworks
Save yourself from a tiger attack. Dry salted fish with local villagers from the 1940s. Inspired by key works in the Gallery’s collections, play around with perspectives and become part of a life-sized painting! With 3D photo backdrops and floor vinyls, visitors will be able to join in the painting and watch it come to live. There will also be photo booths where visitors can have their photos printed instantly for free!

Western and Asian-inspired performances
From the traditional to the contemporary, from jazz to world music, catch performances throughout both days!

To find out about the specific programmes and their timings, please visit www.nationalgallery.sg.

Meet & Greet LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS
1- 19 Jun 2016
Weekdays 5pm - 7pm | Weekends 12pm - 2pm & 5pm- 7pm
VivoCity, Central Court B


This June School Holidays, meet the LEGO NEXO Knights in person! Young knights will also be able to “Power Up” as they join Lance and his team of Knights to battle Jestro, earning tokens of honour at every battle station. With fun activities including the NEXO KNIGHTS™ Virtual Training 101 and Volcano Lava Battle, kids can complete multiple quests to win the Shield of Honour, along with a certificate with two event-exclusive shields that kids can scan to improve their in-game characters.

Peter & Blue Go Around the World
2 - 5 Jun 2016; 11am & 2pm
The Singapore Airlines theatre, LASALLE College of the Arts
$28


Personally narrated by Artistic Director, Janek Schergen, Peter & Blue Go Around The World - an hour-long annual ballet sell-out specially created for children - tells the story of the ever-inquisitive trio - Peter, his dog Blue and his cat Calico, embarking on a magical adventure traversing continents in a magic boat that takes them anywhere around the world and back. Along with meet-the-characters, photo-taking session and balloon sculpting, this is a perfect family outing not to be missed! For tickets, visit HERE.

NANTA (COOKIN')
3 - 5 Jun 2016
Fri 8pm | Sat 2pm & 8pm | Sun 2pm
Resorts World Theatre, Resorts World Sentosa
$48, $68, $98, $118, $138


Direct from South Korea, this amazing theatrical spectacular is Master Chef meets Stomp. Over 8 million people have been entertained around the world by five fabulous chefs who drum (with knives), juggle (with knives), and literally cook their way through a fast-paced evening of culinary delight, the likes of which you have never seen! For tickets, visit HERE.

CHUGGINGTON LIVE! The Great Rescue Adventure
3 - 5 Jun 2016
Fri 6pm | Sat 11am, 2.30pm & 6pm | Sun 11am & 2.30pm
The Theatre @ MediaCorp
$48, $68, $88, $118


The live-action, musical children’s show, based on the popular TV series, gives young fans and their families the opportunity to experience the train-tastic adventures of the Chuggington trainees, Wilson, Brewster and Koko. Featuring impressive trains with working features and movements that bring the Chuggington TV series characters to life on stage, this live show is presented before a giant LED video wall featuring animated locations and background action sequences from the popular TV series. For tickets, visit HERE.

Singapore Book Fair 2016
3 - 9 Jun 2016
3 Jun: 4pm - 10pm| 4-8 Jun: 11am - 10pm | 9 Jun: 11am - 8pm
Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre Halls 401 - 402
FREE Admission

This year, a new chapter unfolds at Singapore Book Fair, re-inventing and integrating literature, creativity, family, food, and travel, these themes bring out the true spirit of “In Books. We Live.” The initiative features lifestyle workshops; creative merchandise area; meet-the- author sessions; storytelling and sharing session by award-winning directors; celebrities and many more surprises that await your exploration at Singapore Book Fair.

Dinosaur Train Live
3 - 12 Jun 2016
Tue - Thur 1pm & 7pm | Fri - Sun 1pm, 4pm & 7pm
The Seletar Mall


Join Buddy and his adoptive family for adventures on the Dinosaur Train! Meet and greet Buddy and his friends after the show.

June Holiday Activities at The Rink
Various Dates & Timings
The Rink at JCube, Level 3


Skate and Meet JR, The Rink’s ice skating polar bear
3, 10, 17 June (Fri): 5.15pm | 4, 11, 18 June (Sat): 2pm | 5, 12, 19 June (Sun): 11am
Ticket prices per 2-hour session: $14 Adult, $12 Children, $3.50 for skate boots rental

Bumper Car on Ice at The Rink
Every Sat: 5.15pm - 9.30pm | Sun (5 & 12 June): 10.30am - 12.30pm
Ticket prices: Bump Only: $8 per 10-min ride | Skate and Bump*: $4 per 10-min ride
*Excludes admission and skate boots rental

Kids Baking Class @ Flour Power
3 Jun 2016 onwards; 10am - 12.30pm
Various classes
$40 per class

Flour Power is a social enterprise bakery that trains people with special needs to bake, so that they will have some marketable skills that could find them jobs eventually in the future. All its revenue from the workshops and bakes goes toward supporting its training programmes for people with special needs.

This June School Holidays, sign up for Flour Power's baking workshops where its passionate chefs and staff will be teaching your kids to whip up fresh bakes, served up with a delightful mix of baking math and science, storytelling and art! Your kids will be able to bring home their handmade bakes, a specially crafted recipe book as well as some surprise craft items! Recommended for kids between 5 - 8 years old. For more details on class dates and to sign up, visit HERE.

FUN-tastic Fridays @ACM
3, 10, 17 & 24 Jun 2016; 12pm - 4pm
Asian Civilisations Museum
FREE Admission

Have fun at the museum with the whole family every Friday in June. Join Mr Mouse, Ganesha and friends on an adventure in the museum, create fun crafts, and listen to exciting stories and performances in the galleries. Enjoy a fun-filled Friday at the Asian Civilisations Museum! Recommended for children ages 4 and up.

“LILYTOPIA” Floral Display
3 Jun - 10 Jul 2016;  9am - 9pm
Flower Dome
Admission Charges apply


Jump in for a joyride back in time with our first-ever retro-styled floral display - Lilytopia! Get ready to rock and roll as we hit the rewind button and journey back to an era of psychedelic music and Flower Power. Groove to old school favourites in this retro revival featuring a stunning display of lilies alongside pop icons like the hippie van and guitar. Let the good times roll!

Saturdays at ACM: Where’s Mr Mouse?
4 Jun 2016; 1pm - 5pm
Asian Civilisations Museum
FREE Admission


Crawl through mazes, and say hello to fantastical beasts and creatures in The Missing Mouse exhibition. Watch them come to life in dramatized performances. Bring along a tote bag and silkscreen your very own Mr Ganesha and Mr Mouse!

Barney's Beach Party
4 - 19 Jun 2016 (Daily except Mondays)
2pm & 7pm (Tue - Fri) | 1pm, 4pm & 7pm (Sat & Sun)
City Square Mall, L1 Atrium


Barney is returning to City Square Mall for his fourth show! Join Barney, BJ, and Baby Pop in this up-beat and educational ‘live’ programme, and sing along to all-time favourites with a fresh twist. The new 15 minute musical celebration features some evergreen favourites with fresh new beats, mixed together with a sunny beach feel, to make for our sandy celebrations.

Shoppers can also redeem a Meet & Greet pass 1 hour before each show to take a family photo with the adorable purple dinosaur himself with a minimum of $50 spent. Limited to only 50 passes per show.


Be S.U.R.E. & Help Your Child Excel
4, 11, 18 & 26 June 2016
Various Timings & Various libraries
FREE


Join in for an interesting hour-long workshop at our public libraries and learn how to use NLB's electronic resources (eResources) to support your child’s research and project needs. Please bring along your smartphone or tablet for the session as a live demonstration of how to use our eResources will be conducted. FREE Admission but registration is required.

Saturday, 4 June 2016 (Register here) | 2pm to 3pm
Pasir Ris Public Library, Programme Zone

Saturday, 11 June 2016 (Register here) | 2pm – 3pm
Clementi Public Library, Programme Zone

Saturday, 18 June 2016  (Register here) | 1pm – 2pm
Sembawang Public Library, Programme Room

Sunday, 26 June 2016 (Register here) | 2pm – 3pm
Serangoon Public Library, Programme Zone


ZOUKIDISCO!
5 Jun 2016; 3.30pm - 5.30pm
Zouk
$12 per pax (incl. 1 nonalcoholic drink)


The joy of dancing knows no age limit so this holiday season, head down to ZouKiDisco to bring on those dance moves no matter how young you may be! Folks, come shimmy the afternoon away at this funfilled day time dance party for you and your kids. Go on a mini jungle adventure with our safari themed party and that's not all you can expect, we've got lots of family-friendly activities in store such as balloon sculpting, sand art painting and much more. Get your tickets HERE.

Funan Anime Matsuri 2016
6 - 12 Jun 2016
Funan DigitaLife Mall
Free Admission


The iconic cosplay event is back for the fourth year running at Funan DigitaLife Mall! Experience a wholesome week of Japanese pop culture right here in Singapore. Activities include cosplay workshops, cosplay meet & greet, anime screenings, card tournaments, and so much more in store for you! More details HERE.

The Largest Play-Doh 60th Birthday Bash
6 - 12 Jun 2016; 12pm - 9pm
Waterway Point, Village Square, West Wing, Level 1
Minimum spend of $30

Waterway Point will also host the Largest Play-Doh Cupcake Tower in celebration of Play-Doh’s 60th birthday from 6 to 12 June, where it will attempt to enter the Singapore Book of Records. Shoppers may participate in this record-setting feat by contributing their very own Play-Doh cupcakes to the cupcake tower. The week-long birthday bash will also be packed with creative Play-Doh making workshops and story-telling sessions.

Doh-Doh Meet & Greet
12 Jun 2016; 4pm

Kids' Adventure Carnival
6 - 26 Jun 2016
Anchorpoint & Changi City Point

Kids’ Adventure is a week-long carnival held in support of Children’s Cancer Foundation. Besides thematic booths focusing on enabling childhood wellness and lifestyle products, parents can also look forward to educational talks by the experts on children's enrichment and parenting as well as health demonstrations over the weekend.

Anchorpoint (6 to 12 June 2016)
Bring your kids down this school holiday for some craft workshops. Stand to walk away with prizes such as Meiji hampers and vouchers from Pororo Theme Park, Play N Learn, Great Eastern Life and Food Panda.

11 June 2016: 4pm - Stage Games | 6pm - Arts & Craft Competition | 7:30pm - Prize Presentation
12 June 2016: 1pm - Stage Games | 2:30pm - Talks for Parents on Kid's Enrichment | 3pm - Arts & Craft Competition | 4pm - Health Talk | 4:30pm - Prize Presentation

Changi City Point (20 to 26 June 2016)
Get hands-on at our cool craft workshops and take home a periscope, kaleidoscope, play corn animal or paper mache, plus $45 worth of vouchers from Pororo Theme Park, Play N Learn, Food Panda and products from Sunplay!

Craft Workshops
20 to 24 June, 1pm to 3pm
25 to 26 June, 1pm to 3pm & 5pm & 7pm

Games with Sure-Win prizes 
25 June, 4pm to 8pm
26 June, 1pm to 5pm

The Wormhole Exhibition
6 Jun - 17 Jul 2016
Liang Court, L2 Event Space


A Machiya has come through a wormhole and landed in the center of Liang Court!! THE WORMHOLE is the sequel of HYPERDIMENSION from the Tales of Pao narrative, created by art and design studio 아이오이(aheeoee). Over a period of 6 weeks, individual sections of the architecture will come through the wormhole and take their place to form a complete machiya, installed with multi-media works of four exciting local artists.

Meet & Greet: Geronimo Stilton Walk About
7 & 12 Jun 2016
7 Jun: 2.55pm - 3.20pm & 3.35pm - 4pm
12 Jun: 1.35pm - 2pm & 2.15pm - 2.40pm
The Maritime Experiential Museum, RWS
Adult $5 | Child $3 (4-12)

Part of Imagine | Native, a creative fest for kids. For more details, visit HERE.

Avatars & Cloud Babies
8 & 9 Jun 2016; 10am - 10pm
ION Art Gallery, Level 4, ION Orchard
FREE Admission


Take your kids for an unusual shopping outing this June holidays! Avatars & Cloud Babies is a public art making event for children and families at ION Art Gallery on 8 and 9 June 2016. Come join the simple and fun doodling session which anyone (kids and adults) can just pick up colour markers and create abstract shapes called Cloud Babies that frolic in the sky. Have fun too walking through the children art exhibition with giant board game and standee avatars organised by The Arts Fission Company. For more details, visit HERE.

Public Art Making Session
Date: 8 & 9 June 2016
Venue: ION Art Gallery, Level 4, ION Orchard
Time: 11am, 2pm, 5pm

Shrek the Musical
8 - 19 Jun 2016
Wed - Fri 7.30pm | Sat 2pm & 7.30pm | Sun 1pm & 6pm 
Grand Theatre, MasterCard Theatres at Marina Bay Sands
$65, $95, $125, $175


SHREK THE MUSICAL is based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film that started it all. This live adaptation brings the hilarious story of everyone's favorite ogre to the stage. In a far away kingdom turned upside down, things get ugly when an ogre - not a handsome prince - shows up to rescue a feisty princess. Throw in a donkey that does not keep quiet, a villain with a short temper, a cookie with an attitude and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you've got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, there's one on hand and his name is Shrek. For tickets, visit HERE.

Meet & Greet with Clifford The Big Red Dog
9 Jun 2016
2.55pm - 3.20pm & 3.35pm - 4pm
The Maritime Experiential Museum, RWS
Adult $5 | Child $3 (4-12)

Part of Imagine | Native, a creative fest for kids. For more details, visit HERE.

MISTER MAKER and the SHAPES LIVE ON STAGE
10 – 12 June 2016
10 Jun 6pm | 11 Jun 12pm, 3pm and 5.30pm | 12 Jun 10.30am, 2pm and 5pm
D’Marquee, Downtown East
$35, $75, $110


Join CBeebies' Mister Maker, on his first ever live theatre tour in Singapore! With a fabulous supporting cast and art at its heart, this fantastic live show encourages Mini Makers and grown-ups to sing, dance and make some noise. There's a big 'make' to take part in, lots of audience participation and....The Shapes! Yes, you'll be able to share the fun with Circle, Square, Rectangle and Triangle too! For tickets, visit HERE.

Baby Baby 2016
10 & 12 Jun 2016
10 & 11 Jun: 11am - 9pm | 12 Jun: 11am - 8pm
Singapore Expo Hall 3
FREE Admission

An event for new and expectant parents, Baby Baby showcases a wide variety of products and services under one roof! At Baby Baby 2016, you’ll find everything you need to get ready for your new arrival and guide you through the early weeks and years of parenting. In addition to attractive bargains from over 400 popular brands, we have fantastic rewards for our fans too. It’s all there for you at Baby Baby 2016 – an essential part of your journey into the wonderful world of parenthood!

The Painters: HERO
10 & 11 Jun 2016; Fri 8pm | Sat 2pm & 8pm
Resorts World Theatre, Resorts World Sentosa
$48, $68, $98, $118, $138


An innovative art performance that stages the mind-blowing skills of live drawing with incredible visual effects, filled with a witty blend of mime, dance and comedy. Rather than finding satisfaction from a completed artwork, The Painters: HERO embodies and shares the joy and awe-inspiring journey of creating works of art with the audience. All-time favorite superstars including Michael Jackson and Bruce Lee, plus superheroes Superman, Liu Bei, Guan Yu and Zhang Fei, are re-created in a very unique way through this fun-filled compelling show. For tickets, visit HERE.

Robot Kitty Singapore
11 - 21 Jun 2016; 10am - 8pm
Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre, Hall 401 - 403
$30 (Adults) | $15 (Children, 3 – 11 years) | $15 (Senior Citizens, 65 and above)


An exuberant display of photo attractions, interactive gaming departments, exclusive memorabilia and an autograph session for all Hello Kitty enthusiasts! Hello Kitty is going high-tech this holiday season and avid fans can look forward to a quest in becoming engineers at the Sanrio Robotics Institute. For more details, visit HERE.

Kids for a Greener World
11 - 26 Jun 2016
KidZania Singapore
Event is free but admission charges apply

This June holidays, KidZania Singapore holds its inaugural “Kids for a Greener World” program, where kids can learn how to take better care of Mother Nature through fun edutainment activities, in a city built just for kids. The theme focuses on biodiversity this year, and the city will be decked out with a new look and bustling with program activities to celebrate the splendour of the plant and animal kingdom in the world.


Kids will have the chance to make their own turtle hatchlings using recycled materials. An “eco-edition” of the City Parade will also be conducted daily at specific timings and kids can join in with a specially choreographed “environment cheer” with musical instruments made of plastic bottles.

Straits Family Sunday: Manek Manek
12 Jun 2016; 1pm - 5pm
Peranakan Museum
FREE Admission

Get close to the colourful Peranakan beadwork during a tour around the museum or bead your own badge to bring home. (Manek refers to bead.)

Roald Dahl Story-telling Session
12 Jun 2016; 2.30pm - 3.30pm
Times Junior at Times Waterway Point
FREE

The creator of many children's classic, Roald Dahl's books have always been thoroughly enjoyed by young readers from all generations. Join us for an exciting story telling session that will take your children on a whirlwind adventure along the storylines of Roald Dahl's imagination.

Play it Forward at YewTee Point
13 - 19 Jun 2016; 12.30pm - 8.30pm
YewTee Point, Main Atrium, Level 1


Play It Forward, Frasers Centrepoint Malls’ 12-month quest to raise funds for Family Service Centres in partnership with Community Chest, stops by at YewTee Point this June! Families are invited to enjoy 15 minutes of play in Singapore’s largest charity ball pool containing a sea of over 100,000 colourful balls for a minimum $5 donation. As a gesture of appreciation, each participant will enjoy a complimentary PrimaDéli waffle after their session!

Super Summer Sand Fiesta
13 - 19 Jun 2016; 1pm - 9pm
Northpoint, Main Atrium, Level 1

Northpoint brings the outdoors indoors this holiday to help families beat the heat! Shoppers can enjoy an air-conditioned summer beach outing complete with real sand, beach chairs and coconut tree hammocks. Families can look forward to fun beach activities including an exhilarating speed-boat simulator ride, fishing, and even sandcastle building. Don’t forget to grab complimentary ice-pops and snap a photo with the gigantic sandcastle or life-size ship!*

*To participate in the Summer Beach Fiesta, spend a minimum of $30 in 3 same-day same-mall receipts. Present receipts at the event area to register.

MPH Book Sale
17 - 19 Jun 2016
17 Jun: 3pm - 9pm | 18 & 19 Jun: 9am - 9pm
Singapore Expo Hall 5A
FREE Admission

Ocean Adventure @ Rochester Mall
18 Jun 2016; 12pm - 5pm
Rochester Mall, L1 & L2


In celebration of its 30th Birthday, Young Parents will be having a carnival at Rochester Mall on 18 June 2016! Expect plenty of FREE fun activities for the kids like sea-themed crafts and longkang fishing. There will also be performances by Pororo, Petty and Crong!

Pororo & Friends Meet and Greet
18 Jun 2016; 1pm & 3pm
Rochester Mall

Sing and Dance with Pororo, Petty and Crong! The first 20 kids to join the queue by the stage at 1pm or 3pm will also get to take a photo with them!

'Nao Nao' Workshop
19 Jun 2016; 2.30pm - 3.30pm
Times Junior at Times Waterway Point
FREE

Nao Nao has arrived! Take your children on a storytelling journey that they will definitely relate to! Revolving around the life of a local school boy, Nao Nao is highly popular amongst children and is the perfect way to engage you children in the basics of learning the Chinese Language. What's more, the brains behind the Nao Nao series will be there to personally sign your book!

Marvin Magic!
19 Jun 2016; 4pm - 5pm
Times Junior at Times Waterway Point
FREE

It's magic time! Marvin the Magician has teleported into Times Waterway Point with a few nifty new tricks that he is eager to show the world! Wow your children with an exciting magic performance that will amaze and captivate them with the wonders of magic!

Family Movie and Craft Day @ SAFRA Mount Faber
19 Jun 2016; 2pm - 6pm
SAFRA Mount Faber, Lobby
FREE Admssion

Bring your kids down to SAFRA Mount Faber for a day of movie screenings and craft activities this June holidays. Satisfy your sweet tooth with candy floss and popcorn while watching the movies!

Celebrating Usborne's Day
25 Jun 2016; 2.30pm - 3.30pm
Times Junior at Times Waterway Point
FREE

On Usborne Day, bookshops around the world celebrate as the international children's books publishing company reaches a new milestone. Look out for plenty of exciting activities for children, as well as a total of 50 cool goodie bags with activity packs, badges, key chains and bookmarks that will be given away!

Movies Galore


Marvel's Captain America: Civil War - Now showing
X-Men: Apocalypse - Now showing
Tha Angry Birds Movie - Opens on 26 May 2016
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out Of The Shadows - Opens 2 June 2016
Doraemon The Movie: Nobita And The Birth Of Japan 2016 - Opens 9 June 2016
Robinson Crusoe - Opens 9 June 2016
Finding Dory - Opens 16 June 2016

Imaginarium: Over the Ocean, Under the Sea
Now until 28 Aug 2016
Mon - Sun 10am - 7pm | Fri 10am - 9pm
Singapore Art Musuem
FREE for Singaporeans & PRs | Adults $10 | Senior Citizens (above 60) & Kids $5 | Kids below 6 FREE


Delving into the deep, Imaginarium: Over the Ocean, Under the Sea – the sixth edition of SAM’s children-focused annual exhibition – invites adventurers of all ages into the watery realms of our Earth as seen through the eyes of contemporary artists.

A whimsical introduction to the many stories and ideas that surround seascapes, Imaginarium: Over the Ocean, Under the Sea presents tactile and interactive works that encourage discovery through exploration and play. At SAM at 8Q, young people are invited to comb the shores and navigate the deep where they make the acquaintance of mysterious denizens and underwater wonders. We hope that, as protectors of the future, our young visitors will also think about the impact we have on the natural world, and of how, through inventive and wise ideas, we can save our earth and its awe-inspiring oceans. For the detailed listing and programme, download the brochure HERE.

Hideaways - Creating with Nature
Now until 30 Oct 2016
Tues - Sun: 10am - 6pm (Closed on Mondays)
Playeum (Blk 47, Malan Road, Gillman Barracks, #01-23, Singapore 109444)
$20 per child (1-12) | Accompanying adult: Free | Additional accompanying adult: $10


Hideways - Creating With Nature is all about immersive experiences - experiences that will invite kids to explore, observe, construct, reflect, innovate and engage with nature and natural materials through hands-on exhibits and interactive artists’ installations. Specifically designed for kids aged 1 to 12, the exhibition helps them explore these questions through various installations - providing an interdisciplinary and engaging experience serving as an important reminder of the world’s ecosystem. Read more in my review HERE.

Shaking It With Shakespeare Exhibition
Now until 15 Jan 2017; 10am - 7pm daily
Singapore Philatelic Museum, Level 2

Adult: $6 | Child: $4 | FREE Admission for Singapore Citizens & PRs


Calling families and children, come and explore the life and times of Shakespeare at the colourful and interactive exhibition!  See how Shakespeare looked like; read and watch, listen to the music and songs of his plays. Explore the cabinet of curiosities filled with exotic and everyday objects from Shakespeare’s world. Dine with Shakespeare, recite magic spells from his plays and discover real bizarre cures from Tudor times! Admire beautiful costumes of Romeo and Juliet plays, and take the opportunity to dress up as a Shakespearean character.

Be treated to stamps from around the world that showcase Shakespeare and his works, 400-year old books, as well as Shakespearean texts in various local mother tongues. Join us for exciting programmes including Tudor-themed activities, craft sessions and participatory storytelling by an experienced education practitioner from Shakespeare’s Globe in London.


Future World @ ArtScience Museum
10am, 11.30am, 1pm, 2.30pm, 4pm and 5.30pm
ArtScience Museum, Marina Bay Sands
Ticket prices HERE


Kids will be able to imagine, play and explore in Singapore's largest digital art gallery, where 15 digital art installations come to life through cutting-edge science and technology! Some of the really interesting installations include Crystal Universe where you become the centre of the universe by stepping inside a scintillating and dazzling world of 170,000 LED lights and Light Ball Orchestra which blends vivid lights with beautiful music together to create an orchestra of colours and sounds that change constantly. Children can experiment with creating their own music freely as they run and play among a multitude of light balls, changing their sounds and colours as they touch or throw them around! Our Blog Post HERE.


June School Holidays Character Meet & Greet 2016

$
0
0

It seems that Cartoon character Meet & Greet sessions are always a fave when it comes to the school holidays. A few readers had messaged and emailed me regarding the Meet & Greet sessions happening this June School Holidays which I had actually included them in my previous Holiday listing.

But due to popular demand, I have extracted the Meet & Greet sessions from that list and compile them below. I can already see a few of them being a hit with the kids - notably Angry Birds, Hi-5 (at THREE different locations, no less!), Cinderella, LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS and for the first time ever in Singapore, Tayo The Little Bus!

Enjoy! :)


Angry Birds Meet & Greet @ McDonald's

27 May 2016
1pm: McDonald's JEM
6pm: McDonald's Bugis Junction

28 May 2016
10am: McDonald's Jurong Central Park

3 Jun 2016
1pm: McDonald's Bedok Mall
6pm: McDonald's Ang Mo Kio Central

4 Jun 2016
10am:  McDonald'sWaterway Park

10 Jun 2016
1pm: McDonald's Choa Chu Kang Ave 4
6pm: McDonald's VivoCity

11 Jun 2016
10am: Pasir Ris Sports Complex

Meet & Greet Powerpuff Girls

27 - 29 May 2016
Friday – 6pm | Saturday and Sunday – 12pm, 4pm & 7pm
United Square Mall


To celebrate the return of its popular hit series, Cartoon Network will be hosting a three-day Powerpuff Girl themed family event at United Square! Come down and enjoy a full line-up of on-stage performances, games,  and activities. No spending required for Powerpuff Girls Meet & Greet. First-come-first-serve basis.

Hi-5 Party Performances and Meet & Greet

28 and 29 May 2016
2pm and 5pm
Changi Airport, T3 Departure Hall, L2 Public Area
(Near Skytrain Platform to Terminal 1)


Meet & Greet Tayo the Little Bus

28 May - 10 Jun 2016
Fri - Sun 2pm, 4pm  7pm | Tue - Thur 3pm & 7pm
Marina Square, Atrium



Get set for an adventure with Tayo The Little Bus & Friends as they debut with a live stage show in Singapore! The first 60 families in the queue can also meet and greet Tayo, Lani & Rogi on stage! Admission on a first come, first served basis. Passes will be distributed at the entrance 20 minutes prior to each session.

CBeebies Live: Teletubbies & Super Numtum Live Show + Meet & Greet

28 May - 19 Jun 2016 (Weekends only)
4.30pm & 7pm
Event Square @ Downtown East


Hi-5 Summer Songfest and Meet & Greet


31 May - 12 Jun 2016
Monday to Sunday – 2pm, 5pm & 7pm | No shows on 6 & 7 Jun
OneKM Mall


Come and party with Hi-5 this summer holiday! This Songfest extravaganza will include all your
favourite Hi-5 songs to sing and dance along with. Put on your dancing shoes and groove to Hi-5 hits.
Spend $50 in a single same-day retail receipt at OneKM to redeem a Meet & Greet photo queue
number. Limited to first 50 families per session.

Meet & Greet LEGO NEXO KNIGHTS

1- 19 Jun 2016
Weekdays 5pm - 7pm | Weekends 12pm - 2pm & 5pm- 7pm
VivoCity, Central Court B


This June School Holidays, meet the LEGO NEXO Knights CLAY & LANCE in person! Young knights will also be able to “Power Up” as they join Lance and his team of Knights to battle Jestro, earning tokens of honour at every battle station.

Meet Angry Birds: Red, Chuck and Bomb

2 - 12 Jun 2016
Thur & Fri 1pm & 7pm | Sat & Sun 1pm, 4pm & 7pm
Suntec City, North Atrium (Between Tower 1 and 2)



Making appearances at Suntec City’s Bird Island is none other than Red, an angry bird with a temper, speedy Chuck and the volatile Bomb. All it takes is a minimum spend of S$50 for shoppers to get to take photos with the mascots. Limited to 50 passes per session.

Dinosaur Train Live + Meet & Greet


3 - 12 Jun 2016
Tue - Thur 1pm & 7pm | Fri - Sun 1pm, 4pm & 7pm
The Seletar Mall


Join Buddy and his adoptive family for adventures on the Dinosaur Train! Meet and greet Buddy and his friends after the show.

Meet & Greet Cinderella

4 - 12 Jun 2016
Monday - Friday – 5pm & 7pm | Saturday and Sunday – 1pm, 3pm, 5pm & 7pm | (No Meet & Greet on Tue)
United Square


For the first time in Asia, enjoy a FREE meet and greet sessions with Cinderella! No spending required for Cinderella Meet & Greet. First-come-first-serve basis.

Barney's Beach Party + Meet & Greet


4 - 19 Jun 2016 (Daily except Mondays)
2pm & 7pm (Tue - Fri) | 1pm, 4pm & 7pm (Sat & Sun)
City Square Mall, L1 Atrium


Join Barney, BJ, and Baby Bop in this up-beat and educational ‘live’ programme, and sing along to all-time favourites with a fresh twist. The new 15 minute musical celebration features some evergreen favourites with fresh new beats, mixed together with a sunny beach feel, to make for our sandy celebrations. Shoppers can also redeem a Meet & Greet pass 1 hour before each show to take a family photo with the adorable purple dinosaur himself with a minimum of $50 spent. Limited to only 50 passes per show.

Meet & Greet: Geronimo Stilton

7 & 12 Jun 2016
7 Jun: 2.55pm - 3.20pm & 3.35pm - 4pm
12 Jun: 1.35pm - 2pm & 2.15pm - 2.40pm
The Maritime Experiential Museum, RWS
Adult $5 | Child $3 (4-12)

Part of Imagine | Native, a creative fest for kids. For more details, visit HERE.

Meet & Greet with Clifford The Big Red Dog

9 Jun 2016
2.55pm - 3.20pm & 3.35pm - 4pm
The Maritime Experiential Museum, RWS
Adult $5 | Child $3 (4-12)

Part of Imagine | Native, a creative fest for kids. For more details, visit HERE.

Ice Age's SCRAT Meet & Greet

10 – 19 Jun 2016 ( Fri & Weekends only)
Fri 7pm | Sat & Sun 2pm, 4pm & 7pm
Bedok Mall, Basement 2 Atrium


Meet & Greet Play-Doh's Doh-Doh

12 Jun 2016
4pm
Waterway Point, Village Square, West Wing, Level 1

Meet & Greet Hi-5

15 - 27 Jun 2016
Monday to Sunday – 2pm, 5pm & 7pm | No shows and meet & greet on Tue
United Square


Hi-5 continues their journey at United Square with some Fun and Games! Experience a dance party
extravaganza with lots of music, party games and non-stop dancing. Get up close and personal with Hi-5 after their performance when you spend $50 in a single same day receipt at any retail outlet at United Square. Limited to first 50 families per session.

Pororo & Friends Meet and Greet


18 Jun 2016
1pm & 3pm
Rochester Mall


Sing and Dance with Pororo, Petty and Crong! The first 20 kids to join the queue by the stage at 1pm or 3pm will also get to take a photo with them!


I'll add to the list as soon as other shows are made known. So do bookmark this post for future updates. Enjoy! :)

And remember, if you are looking for other school holidays activities apart from the Meet & Greets, I have them all listed - more than 200 of them in fact - here: www.cheekiemonkie.net/2016/05/june-school-holidays-2016-activities-for-kids.html.

Top Picks of Children's Season 2016: The BEST Festival for Kids!

$
0
0
Media Invite

Let me just say this: If you only have time to let your kids attend one festival in the year, Children's Season will be it.

Presented by the National Heritage Board, Children’s Season is an action-packed festival during the June school holidays and is held across various museums island-wide. Expect a range of kid-centric programmes and engaging family activities that will inspire, engage and educate. And it is my FAVOURITE festival for kids!

Looking at this year's line-up, Children's Season 2016 is clearly bigger than ever! 2014's edition saw more than 40 programmes conducted in 21 museums island-wide while last year's Children's Season had more than 50 programmes in 20 museums. This year?

A total of more than 70 programmes specially designed for the young at 27 museums in Singapore!


Some of the workshops require a fee but other than that, most of the activities are FREE! How awesome is that?!?!! But even though Children's Season lasts for a full 4 weeks and over 5 weekends between 28 May and 26 June 2016, I think it will be a challenge for anyone to finish visiting all of the museums.

So it sure pays to get started early and visit the museums! To help you along, I have picked out some of the most notable programmes to bring your kids to.

Masak Masak 2016
28 May to 26 Jun 2016
10am - 6pm
National Museum of Singapore
Free Admission
Suitable for ALL


Celebrate the joys of being a child at Masak Masak, the National Museum of Singapore’s
flagship Children’s Season 2016 event. Children and their families are invited to interact with the six installations sprinkled around the museum, inspired by familiar games of the past.

Clumsy Dumpty on the Wall (Level 2)


Clumsy Dumpty on the Wall is an interactive installation inspired by the familiar shape sorter play toy that has encouraged bonding and teamwork among generations of children in the past and present. Team up with friends and family to complete the puzzle before the pieces slip back out – while being entertained by Dumpty’s clumsy and mischievous antics (Read: light and sound effects)!


BIKES 4 FUN (Level 2)


Challenging the functional conventions of bicycles, FunCycling seeks to explore the limitless possibilities of these traditional two-wheeled machines!


Kids are invited to interact with bicycles which have been transformed and reinvented to perform the most outrageously fun functions. All they have to turn the pedals using leg power and they will be able to power up the installations! Just like this Bike SpinArt, where kids can create 'spinning' masterpieces using paint just by spinning a piece of paper and adding paint!


But why do I get the feeling that the Bubble Blower will be the ultimate hit among the young ones?


Le Bestiaire (Level 2)


Inspired by creatures from the majestic animal kingdom and beyond, 12 French artists and designers created their own imaginary zoo of unexpected, abstract and hyper-realistic animals. Ranging from the meekly tame to the terrifyingly wild, Le Bestiaire gives young and old alike the opportunity to embody any animal their imagination conjures.


The young (and wild) ones can also create their own animal costumes, inspired by the patterns and and creatures of the imaginary zoo.


Let’s Play! (Level 1)


By far, I think this is the most fun installation of the lot!

Let’s Play! transforms familiar and classic board games – Snakes & Ladders and Ludo – into a life-sized three-dimensional journey. Playing the role of physical human tokens, children are invited to immerse themselves in an adventurous voyage through a magical forest.


Kids will definitely have a kick going down the slides or crawling through the tunnels - all while playing in a life-sized board game!


Block Up! (Front Lawn)


A single building block – although simple and fundamental – holds the potential to endless creation. Inspired by building blocks, one of the first experiences a child has playing and interacting with others, Block Up! encourages children to explore, interact and learn about different shapes together.


Drawing artistic inspiration from the National Museum of Singapore, the museum’s design, architecture and motifs have been adapted and reimagined into the installation’s vibrant patterns, inviting visitors to explore a different view and perspective.

And of course, one can never go wrong with throwing in a colourful and retro-looking bouncy castle as well!


Unsurprisingly, the kids loved it!


See what I mean? :)



Toysaurse (Basement)

Created with toys from the artist’s toy exchange programme, Toysaurse explores the themes of childhood and material possessions along with the common thread that runs through both
– their ephemeral and temporary nature. Prompting reflection among young and old alike, this multi-segmented installation seeks to remind its audience to treasure what they have in the present. Visitors are invited to interact with and build on the artwork by contributing their own unwanted toys to the existing installation.


Once Upon A Time in Asia: The Missing Mouse
8 May to 26 Jun 2016
10am - 5pm
Asian Civilisations Museum
Free Admission
Suitable for 7 to 12 years old


This exhibition is based on Asian Civilisations Museum’s (ACM) first children’s book, The Missing Mouse. And from the title, one does not need to know that the main objective is to find the missing mouse!


While kids are able to experience a story about friendship and adventure in the museum as they join Ganesha on his hunt for his best friend, Mr Mouse, they will explore meandering mazes, paths and passages in a giant maze specially created for Children's Season 2016.


The experience for visitors will start at the large and colourful maze in the Learning Gallery, and then extends to the museum’s other galleries. Children can join in the search for Mr Mouse, and, along the way, encounter other animal characters – both real and mythical – from the museum’s collection.


There are three themed areas within the maze provides activities for the children; sea, jungle and sky.

Miss Makara is featured in the sea themed area. The Makara is a sea creature that sailors look to for safety. Motifs of the Makara were used by fishermen and sailors. Children can fold their own boat using instructions provided to them.


Mr Hornbill is featured in the jungle themed area. The Dayaks believe that hornbills are special messengers bringing wishes to deities. Children can make a wish for a loved one and fix it to the tree. They can also bring home a special rubbing of the characters featured in the book.


Mr Dragon is featured in the sky area. The ancient Chinese believed that dragons bring rain. With rains come rainbows. This area is a space for children to lie down and imagine and be creative. This area is also a storytelling area and there will be books for children to read.


After exiting the maze, children will choose their own adventure in the galleries, looking for Mr Mouse before ending off at a celebratory party at the Shaw Foyer.


Children will be given the choice to choose their own path and choose which objects they would like to look at using this trail.


The narrative continues and children follow the path of Mr Mouse until they find him at the dinner party where they will be introduced to dining etiquette in Asian culture, and create a menu for their favourite character from the story.


Throughout Children's Season 2016, ACM will be conducting a wide array of programmes as well:

FINDING MR MOUSE: WEEKEND FESTIVAL
Saturday, 28 May & Sunday, 29 May | 1pm to 5pm | 7 years old and above

Can you find Mr Mouse? Join Ganesha and friends on an adventure around the Asian Civilisations Museum. This special festival features family-oriented activities including hands-on crafts and performances, as well as storytelling tours and family trails in the galleries. Have a fun-filled afternoon with the family at the Weekend Festival!

FUN-TASTIC FRIDAYS
Fridays, 3, 10, 17, 24 June | 12pm to 4pm | 4 years old and above
Have fun at the museum with the whole family every Friday in June. Join Mr Mouse, Ganesha, and friends on an adventure in the museum. Create fun crafts and listen to exciting stories in the galleries. Enjoy a fun-filled Friday at the ACM!

SATURDAYS@ACM
4 June | 1pm to 5pm | 4 years old and above
Crawl through mazes and say hello to fantastical beasts and creatures in the The Missing Mouse exhibition. Watch them come to life in dramatised performances. Bring along a tote bag and silkscreen your very own Ganesha and Mr Mouse!

How about other museums? Here are some of my recommendations:

Army Museum of Singapore
Free Admission for Singapore Citizens & PRs.
Admission charges apply for others.


Cadets, Fall In! 2016
 28 May to 26 Jun
All Ages

ATTENTION! Listen up, boys and girls! In this installation of ‘Cadets Fall In’ programme, learn about Army life through an outdoor 'Survival!' field camp, a laser tag game mission, and our Special Exhibition. Also bring out the ‘garang’ soldier in you, by donning one of our child-sized uniforms, complete with accessories. Enjoy a fun-filled experience for children of all ages.

Be A Soldier
28 May to 29 May, 31 May to 05 Jun, 07 Jun to 12 Jun, 14 Jun to 19 Jun, 21 Jun to 26 Jun
11am - 5pm
3 to 12 years old

Young warriors, come dress up as a soldier of our Singapore Army, by trying on our child-sized Army uniforms (up to 12 years old) prepared just for you. Take on your dream Army role, equipped with the props provided.

I Am Mission Ready!
29 May, 03 Jun to 05 Jun, 10 Jun to 12 Jun, 17 Jun to 19 Jun, 24 Jun to 26 Jun
11am - 5pm
4 to 16 years old

Ready, aim, fire away! Accomplish the mission given by your commander, while negotiating the twists and turns in an inflatable maze. Grab your family and friends and form a team now!

Our Army, Our Nation's Strength
28 May to 29 May, 31 May to 05 Jun, 07 Jun to 12 Jun, 14 Jun to 19 Jun, 21 Jun to 26 Jun
10am - 6pm
All Ages

Ever wondered what the different formations in the Army do? Here’s your chance to embark on an experiential journey to find out more about the formations that make up the Army and what it takes to be a soldier. Test your strength, endurance, dexterity, agility and mental ability by trying out the various activity stations. At the Jungle Zone, you will learn fun facts about jungle survival, such as building a shelter, starting a fire or collecting food and water.

Indian Heritage Centre
Free Admission


Amazing Animal Tales - Storytelling by Kamini Ramachandran
4 Jun to 05 Jun
2pm - 3pm
3 to 11 years old

Listen to master storyteller Kamini Ramachandran as she regales you with fascinating animal folktales from India. Make your own simple animal puppet afterward and bring home a part of the tale! All children must be accompanied by an adult throughout the storytelling-and-craft session. Registration is required. To register, please send your details to NHB_IHC@nhb.gov.sg.

Balloon Bonanza
04 Jun to 12 Jun
10am - 5pm
All Ages

Come join us for the Balloon Bonanza at the Heritage Institutions this Children’s Season with your little ones! Embark on a journey of discovery and spot sculptures inspired by artefacts from the different institutions from Indian mythological creatures at Indian Heritage Centre.

Amazing Animals Artefact Hunt @ IHC
18 Jun to 19 Jun
10am - 4pm
All Ages

Discover amazing mythological animals at IHC in our artefact hunt from the Simha (Lion), Naga and Garuda (Snake and Eagle), to our life-size Nandi (Cow)!

Neighbourhood Sketches
25 Jun; 10am to 7pm
All Ages

Discover amazing performances on Campbell Lane!


Malay Heritage Centre
Free Admission


Ter-ba-BOM! Heritage Hunt
11 Jun, 18 Jun, 25 Jun
10am - 12pm & 2pm - 4pm
7 to 12 years old

Join us on a Heritage Hunt around Kampong Gelam and learn more about the Javanese community, many of whom were former residents in the district. Discover the rich heritage and culture of the Javanese people and learn about their cultural contributions – from culinary heritage, dressing to the performing arts!

Balloon Bonanza
04 Jun to 12 Jun
10am - 5pm
All Ages

Come join us for the Balloon Bonanza at the Heritage Institutions this Children’s Season with your little ones! Embark on a journey of discovery and spot sculptures inspired by traditional Malay games at Malay Heritage Centre.

MOE Heritage Centre
FREE Admission

Let’s Go Old School!
3 - 4 Jun; Time Varies
3 to 11 years old


You can also join a multi-sensory workshop*or learn to make origami creepy crawlies**. Stamp your way through the indoor galleries and outdoor trail on your own as you learn more about the Singapore Education Story or sign up for a special guided tour*** and listen to real life stories told by our docents.

*Multi-sensory workshop (1 hour): Limited to 20 children aged 6 to 10 on a first-come, first-served basis. Friday, 3 June: 12pm and 1.30pm, Saturday, 4 June: 12pm

**Origami workshop: Limited to 20 children on a first-come, first-served basis. 10.30am on Friday, 3 June and Saturday, 4 June

***Guided gallery and guided outdoor trail tours: Limited to 20 people per tour slot on a first-come, first-served basis. Gallery tours (1 hour): Friday, 3 June: 12.30pm and 3pm. Saturday, 4 June: 12.30pm. Outdoor trail tours (45 mins): Friday, 3 June: 11am and 3.30pm. Saturday, 4 June: 11am.

For the latest information and to register for workshops and tours, please visit HERE.

National Archives of Singapore
Free Admission

Little Archivist for a Day
18 Jun to 19 Jun
Time Varies
10am–11.30am, 12.30pm–2pm & 2.30pm–4pm
9 to 13 years old

Be an Archivist for a day! Have you ever wondered what happens to the old maps or documents and photographs of the past? How are they conserved and where are they kept? How do we learn about incidents or events that took place in Singapore’s history? In this workshop, children ages 9-13 years old will get to experience being an archivist through fun and engaging hands-on activities.

Registration is required. To register, please email NAS_Outreach@nlb.gov.sg with your name, age, contact number and preferred time-slot. Maximum 20 participants per session.

National Gallery Singapore
Free Admission

Common Grounds: A Family Fun Day
11 Jun to 12 Jun
11am - 6pm
All Ages

Based on the theme of “Home”, the June edition of Common Grounds brings you a lively mix of family programmes inspired by the Gallery’s permanent collection. In conjunction with Reframing Modernism, visitors can also explore French and Southeast Asian influences across art and culture, and thereby the connections between both local and international collections.

Father's Day Weekend
18 Jun to 19 Jun
1pm - 6pm
5 to 16 years old

How many different ways are there to create a portrait? Celebrate Father's Day by creating a unique portrait to show dad or grandpa how much he means to you!

Peranakan Museum
Free Admission

Straits Family Sunday: Manek Manek (Bead Bead)
12 Jun
1pm - 5pm
All Ages

Have fun this June with beads! Learn how to bead your own badge, enjoy a dramatization of a popular children’s book, and be mesmerized by a demonstration of Peranakan beading by expert Bebe Seet. Learn more about beadwork and embroidery with our specially crafted tours for kids.

Police Heritage Centre
Free Admission

I Want To Be A Policeman!
02 Jun to 03 Jun, 09 Jun to 11 Jun, 16 Jun to 17 Jun, 23 Jun to 25 Jun
Weekdays: 10am, 11.30am, 2.30pm and 4pm | Weekends: 9.30am and 11am 
All Ages


Treat your child to a memorable time at the Police Heritage Centre! Young visitors get to wear kid-sized police uniforms, and take part in photo-taking sessions with real police officers as well as a retro-fitted police radio car, which was deployed to the scene of crime in the 1970s! For a complete learning experience, kids will receive interesting activity game booklets, and stand a chance to win attractive prizes by participating in a drawing competition.

IMPORTANT!Registration required, tours by appointment only. Please register by calling 64782123 or email SPF_Police_Heritage@spf.gov.sg.

Science Centre Singapore
Admission charges apply


Gallery Trail: “I am a Science Explorer”
28 May to 26 Jun
10am - 5pm
FREE
6 to 10 years old

Bring out the explorer in you! Pick up a copy of the “I am a Science Explorer” Gallery Trail booklet at Science Centre’s main entrance. Explore the galleries and complete the trail to be rewarded with a cool souvenir from us.

Fun Spots
31 May to 23 Jun (Tue-Thurs only)
2:30pm - 4pm
FREE
5 to 16 years old

Our free and easy science activity booths are back! Spot our booths in the galleries for a FUN-tastic time with our Science Educators. Time to throw aside your math formulas as you and our Educators play with Math together in an engaging way.

Storytelling: “Sugar for Tea” by Alan Trussell-Cullen
03 Jun, 10 Jun, 17 Jun, 24 Jun
2.30pm to 3pm
FREE
4 to 6 years old

Join us at a cozy corner of Science Centre for an engaging story time. Interact with our friendly educators after the story to learn more about ants and sugar.

Singapore Art Museum
FREE for Singaporeans & PRs
Others: Adults $10 | Senior Citizens (above 60) & Kids $5
Kids below 6 FREE

Imaginarium: Over the Ocean, Under the Sea
Now until 28 Aug 2016
Mon - Sun 10am - 7pm | Fri 10am - 9pm
All Ages


Delving into the deep, Imaginarium: Over the Ocean, Under the Sea – the sixth edition of SAM’s children-focused annual exhibition – invites adventurers of all ages into the watery realms of our Earth as seen through the eyes of contemporary artists.

A whimsical introduction to the many stories and ideas that surround seascapes, Imaginarium: Over the Ocean, Under the Sea presents tactile and interactive works that encourage discovery through exploration and play. At SAM at 8Q, young people are invited to comb the shores and navigate the deep where they make the acquaintance of mysterious denizens and underwater wonders. We hope that, as protectors of the future, our young visitors will also think about the impact we have on the natural world, and of how, through inventive and wise ideas, we can save our earth and its awe-inspiring oceans. For the detailed listing and programme, download the brochure HERE.

Singapore City Gallery
Free Admission

My City, My Colour
28 May to 25 Jun (Sat only)
9am - 5pm
Time Varies
All Ages

Would you like to design buildings and co-create a city? Come participate in this activity and let your creative juices flow! Try your hand at painting and designing your own building blocks alongside other buildings designed by your friends and fellow participants. Basic building blocks and painting materials will be provided at our interactive corner.

Singapore Stories - Past, Present and Future
04 Jun, 18 Jun
10.30am to 11.30am
All Ages

Would you like to design buildings and co-create a city? Come participate in this activity and let your creative juices flow! Try your hand at painting and designing your own building blocks alongside other buildings designed by your friends and fellow participants. Basic building blocks and painting materials will be provided at our interactive corner.

My Fair City
11 Jun, 25 Jun
10.30am to11.30am
All Ages

Why are there five airports and air bases in our city? What does it mean to be a city and a country? Why are there three skyscrapers on our beautiful skyline, all the tallest in Singapore and all the same height? Find out the answers to these questions, and listen to other amazing stories about our city and its design at My Fair City. For registration and enquiries, please call 6321 8321 or email Ura_gallery@ura.gov.sg. Limited to 25 pax per session.

Singapore Discovery Centre
Free Admission for Singapore Citizens & PRs.
Admission charges apply for others.


International Friendship Day (IFD) Special Weekend
28 May to 29 May
Craft and Booth activities: 11am to 5pm, Performances: 12.30pm to 2pm
All Ages

Head down to SDC with your family and friends to celebrate the spirit of international friendship! Enjoy cultural performances and demonstrations at our Lobby throghout this special weekend and interact with friends from all around the world. Be treated to samples of traditional food or delights from these countries through our signature ‘Culture Bites’ programme.

Oh, The Places You’ll Go!
28 May to 26 Jun
10am to 5pm
3 to 16 years old

Let’s get creative and discover ASEAN by creating your own uniquely designed craft, one that you’ll be proud to bring home with you to showcase your little travel adventure story! 

ASEAN Pulse
28 May to 26 Jun
All Ages

Come join us at the S’pore Discovery Centre to celebrate the ASEAN spirit friendships! Explore the bazaar with10 ASEAN Country Pavilions and discover the diverse range of goods that each country produces for the region and the global market. Appreciate the wealth and economic potential of ASEAN; and understand the importance of cooperation and friendships with our neighbours.

Passport to Discovery: ‘My ASEAN Adventure’
28 May to 29 May, 03 Jun to 05 Jun, 10 Jun to 12 Jun, 17 Jun to 19 Jun, 24 Jun to 26 Jun
10am to 5pm
3 to 16 years old

How well do you know our ASEAN neighbours? This holiday, embark on a single passport adventure, which allows you to ‘travel’ to 10 countries around the region. Visit the Country Pavilions to discover many interesting things about ASEAN’s cultural diversity and richness, including a visit to the Army Museum of Singapore to find out more about the special gifts of friendship that Singapore has received from its friends. Earn a stamp with every pit-stop or destination and redeem a gift for yourself at the end of your little adventure!

Singapore Maritime Gallery
Free Admission


AHOY!
28 May to 29 May, 04 Jun to 05 Jun, 11 Jun to 12 Jun, 18 Jun to 19 Jun, 25 Jun to 26 Jun
10:30am and 3:30pm
3 to 12 years old

Ahoy, Captain! Set sail on a voyage to unearth past milestones of Singapore’s transformation from a trading post to a global hub port. Specially tailored for kids, this exciting guided tour will shed light on the importance of Maritime Singapore and the role it plays in our daily lives.

Stories and Art of the Deep Blue Sea
28 May to 29 May, 04 Jun to 05 Jun, 11 Jun to 12 Jun, 18 Jun to 19 Jun, 25 Jun to 26 Jun
2pm - 3.15pm
3 to 8 years old

Get acquainted with the magical story of Swimmy by Leo Lionni, and enter his underwater world of intriguing shapes and colours. Narrated by Playeum Pte Ltd, Swimmy will let the young ones discover the different fauna and flora of the marine life, and learn the importance of keeping the oceanic environment clean. Stories and Art of the Deep Blue Sea will expose our little friends to art creation using the story of Swimmy as an inspiration. They will also get to make their own sea creature puppet for role-play and drama after the workshop!

Registration is required. For registration and enquiries, please call 6325 5707 or email enquiries@maritimegallery.sg. Limited to 20 participants per session

Singapore Philatelic Museum
FREE Admission for Singapore Citizens & PRs | Adult: $6 | Child: $4

Shaking It With Shakespeare Exhibition
Now until 15 Jan 2017
10am - 7pm
All Ages


Explore the life and times of Shakespeare in this colourful and interactive exhibition, in commemoration of his 400th death anniversary. See how he looked like, recite magic spells from his plays, dress up as a Shakespearean character, and delve into the cabinet of curiosities filled with exotic and everyday objects from Shakespeare’s world, amongst other exciting activities! 

Complete your Shakespearean experience by viewing stamps from around the world that showcase Shakespeare and his works, 400-year old books, and Shakespearean texts in various local mother tongues.

A Tudor Fayre
05 Jun, 12 Jun
10am - 7pm
Free for the day. Charges for programmes apply.
All Ages

Have a day of Tudor fun with an exciting line-up of programmes! Participate in activities including participatory storytelling by Shakespeare’s Globe (London), costume dress-up & make-up booth, performance by a lute player, pie-making and leather craft demonstrations, DIY pomander craft, palm telling by a ‘Gypsy’, Shakespeare reading corner and “Shakespeare is Here!” activity trail.

Singapore Sports Museum
FREE Admission for Singapore Citizens & PRs
Standard: Adult $10 | Student & Senior Citizen (above 60) $5 | FREE for kids below 6

Children’s Season @ Singapore Sports Museum
28 May to 26 Jun
Weekdays: 10am to 8pm
Weekends, Eve of Public Holidays and Public Holidays: 10am to 9pm
6 to 12 years old

Do you think you can run faster than Hussain Bolt and jump higher than Michael Jordan? Challenge yourself this Children’s Season at Singapore Sports Museum! Learn what it takes to be a coach, design a stadium, medal and trophy, and reflect on the values of excellence, respect and friendship through the destinies of athletes, who are champions in unique ways.

Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall
Free Admission

Wan Qing Weekend: Shanghai Splendour
28 May to 29 May
6pm - 10pm
All Ages


Take a trip back in time to the 1920s at Wan Qing Weekend:  Shanghai Splendour! Bond over traditional activities such as rice dumpling making in the day. As the night falls, Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall will be transformed into an early Shanghai downtown district, where music, dance and literary gatherings define the soul and tempo of the culturally vibrant city in her heyday. The Memorial Hall will also open till late during the weekend.         

Early Chinese Newspapers in Singapore: 1880s - 1942 Special Exhibition
28 May to 26 Jun (closed on Mondays)
10am - 5pm
All Ages

Learn more about the history and development of Chinese newspapers in Singapore through Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall’s new special exhibition, Early Chinese Newspapers in Singapore (1881 – 1942). The exhibition showcases more than 100 images and artefacts associated with early Chinese newspapers, prominent individuals who shaped the newspaper industry, and the early printing industry in Singapore.

Balloon Bonanza
04 Jun to 12 Jun (closed on Mondays)
10am - 5pm
All Ages

Come join us for the Balloon Bonanza at the Heritage Institutions this Children’s Season with your little ones! Embark on a journey of discovery and spot the different trades in the 1900s at Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall.

Heritage Hunt
18 Jun to 19 Jun
10am - 5pm
3 to 12 years old

Go on a Heritage Hunt and search for the hidden treasure by collecting clues at various activity stations. During the hunt, participants will get to learn fun facts about Chinese heritage and history. This programme will also enable participants to learn more about Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall’s special exhibition on the history and development of Chinese newspapers in Singapore, entitled Early Chinese Newspapers in Singapore (1881–1942).

Registration is required. Please register at wqyheritagehunt.peatix.com. Limited to first 20 pairs of parent and child per session.


For a complete listing of ALL Children's Season 2016 programmes, visit www.museums.com.sg/cs16.

Danone's Delicious, Delightful & Delectable Ultimate Greek Yoghurt

$
0
0
Advertorial

There is just so much to love about yoghurt. Besides being a great alternative to ice cream, yoghurt boasts live cultures, or probiotics, which help to boost gut and gastrointestinal health. Plus is is also an excellent source of protein and nutrients like calcium. So yes, it is one type of food that I would not mind the monkies having every day.

And after having a taste of the Ultimate Greek Yoghurt range from Danone, I think they will be clamouring for it from now on. Especially since we made yummy and healthy treats using the yoghurt!


Danone Ultimate Greek Yoghurt is made from 100% Australian milk and fresh fruits, Yes, not dried fruits mind you.

Wait, hang on. What exactly is Greek Yoghurt?Greek yoghurts are higher in protein, thanks to the additional straining process which sees excess whey removed. This is why Greek yoghurt has a much thicker, creamier consistency, and why regular yoghurt often has some liquid in the container when you open it.

So why is Danone's yoghurt offering called Ultimate Greek Yoghurt? Simply put, it is a yoghurt beyond compare.


If you like your yoghurt thick and creamy with the addition of fresh fruits, this yoghurt is the one for you. 5 flavours are currently available here in Singapore - Strawberry, Blackcherry, Blueberry, Raspberry & White Chocolate, and Honey.


I would be hard-pressed to choose a favourite among the five because every flavour is just so delicious, delightful and delectable.

The moment we peeled back the lid, we knew the yoghurt was going to be different. The colour, the texture, the aroma, the chunks of real fruit (not soft and mushy like other yoghurts)... All of us in the family agreed this was the BEST tasting yoghurt we have ever tasted!


The yoghurt has a gorgeous thick texture. extremely creamy and not overly sweet nor sour for our liking. So yes, it is definitely great enough to eat it on its own.

But as you know, it never hurts to add a dash of variety in our lives. So as I was tucking into a cup of luscious Danone Ultimate Greek Yoghurt (it's Honey flavour if you must know), I looked out at the window, saw the scorching sun and everything just clicked.

Danone Ultimate Greek Yoghurt? Good. Fresh fruits? Good. Frozen yoghurt popsicle with fresh fruits? Goooooood!

And as you might have guessed, it is ridiculously easy to make!


Danone Ultimate Greek Yoghurt, fresh fruits - we chose blueberries and strawberries - and a popsicle mould. That's it! And it is so simple that I was able to let the monkies take charge.


After cutting up the fruits, they placed them in the popsicle mould and filled it up with the yoghurt.


I don't think they had ever done a recipe this easy. I also don't think I had ever answered "No, not yet!" so many times to their constant "Can we eat them already?" questions.


But finally, the popsicles were done.


Freeze. Lick. Eat. Repeat.


I don't suppose I need to tell you how much the monkies loved them then.


Well actually, we came up with concoction while waiting for the popiscles to freeze - because you know, I needed a little distraction from all of their incessant questioning. Of course, it has to be something simple as well and a smoothie ticked all of the boxes.


Since the unanimous decision was to have a Banana Smoothie, we utilised the Honey Greek Yoghurt and added some milk to the mix since the yoghurt was thick.


Add in ice cubes, blend well and there you go - a refreshing smoothie for the hot weather!


Yes, some thing tells me the monkies loved the smoothie too. Lol.


Whether it is eaten on its own, or used together in a recipe for great treats, Danone Ultimate Greek Yoghurt is the ultimate indulgence for all occasions!

Talking about indulgence, how about winning a 2D1N staycation at The Sofitel Singapore Sentosa??? Just post a photo of your favourite yogurt recipe - does NOT have to be Danone yoghurt - on Instagram with the hashtag, #CreateWithDanone, and you might just find yourself enjoying a staycation with your family! In addition, the top 10 winners will be awarded with a special prize!



Danone Ultimate Greek Yoghurt is retailing at all major supermarkets. For more information, visit www.danoneultimate.com.au or stay updated at www.facebook.com/danoneultimate.

Tayo The Little Bus Wheels into Marina Square this June School Holidays!

$
0
0
Advertorial

The June School Holidays are here and you know what that means, don't you?

It is time for larger-than-life cute cartoon characters to make their appearance and drive all young kids crazy! And speaking of driving, guess which character is making its FIRST EVER appearance in a Singapore shopping mall?


TAYO the Little Bus!

Originating from South Korea, Tayo the Little Bus tells the tale of a little bus who is just starting to learn his route in the city. If you have kids who love vehicles such as buses, taxis, police cars, trains and even construction vehicles, this cartoon is full of them! Coupled with the educational messages learned from Tayo's daily adventures in the city, this will be one cartoon they will be hooked. I know... because my 2 nephews love Tayo too!

And I think it is safe to say ALL these kids loved Tayo as well.


From now until 10 June 2016, Tayo the Little Bus will be debuting their live stage show at Marina Square! Together with his colourful friends, the kids were treated to an entertaining and colourful journey as the little buses brought cheers of delight all around. Well, not before warming up the crowd with a pre-show segment of games!


Of course, the real highlight was the moment Rogi and Lani made their appearances.


Expectedly, the loudest cheers were reserved for Tayo as he rolled onto the stage!


If your kids are familiar with the cartoon, they will definitely find all the songs familiar too. But even if they do not know who Tayo is, trust me when I say that the songs are so infectious that all the kids cannot help but groove along to the show!


Did I mention that this is Tayo's first live show in a shopping mall in Singapore? He and his friends will only be here until 10 June 2016 though. Show times are 3pm & 7pm from Tuesdays to Thursdays and 2pm, 4pm & 7pm from Fridays to Sundays. There are no shows on Mondays.


If you wish to meet and snap a photo with Tayo and friends after the show, be sure to head down at early. Meet & Greet passes will be distributed at the entrance 20 minutes prior to each show. Passes are on a first come, first served basis.


And yes, not even an arm cast (long story by the way) can keep Ale from snapping a photo with the cute little buses!


An added bonus for kids will be having the opportunity of hopping on the TAYO RIDE-ON BUS! The queue is near the stage area and kids must be aged between 2 and 4 years old. Each ride session is limited to 10 minutes and the ride will close 40 minutes before the Tayo showtime.


While you are there, do pay the TOY FAIR at the Atrium a visit too!


There will be a range of Tayo The Little Bus toys and exclusive toy sets such as Tayo Talking Phone, Tayo High Speed Train & more on sale.


Most of the toys are currently having a discount so if you are looking for Tayo The Little Bus toys, the Marina Square Atrium will be the perfect place to shop for them!


What's more, there are other FREE FRINGE ACTIVITIES like hands-on crafts to keep the kids occupied while you shop.


Besides colouring, kids will be able to create their own colourful keepsakes using Hama beads!


There's more - Fancy winning a Tayo the Little Bus toy for your kiddo? Join THE CUTEST KIDS PHOTO CONTEST! All you have to do is to submit a photo of your child (1 – 5 years old) taken at any Tayo The Little Bus photo booths.



There are a number of Tayo The Little Bus photo stands located along the mall walkway leading to the Atrium so you know what to do if you wish to take part in the contest!

Post the photo on Instagram with the hashtag #marinasquaregss2016. Remember to follow Marina Square’s Instagram (@marinasquaresg) and tag @marinasquaresg too! The 3 cutest kids will each win a Tayo The Little Bus ride-on toy. Closing date for entries is on 12 June 2016, 11.59pm.


And who can forget the other South Korea’s phenomenon at Marina Square too? Pororo Park Singapore opened last November and since our previous visit, a fair bit had changed since then. While the play structures and layout have remained the same, the park has added even MORE educational activities for kids to dabble in.

This June School Holidays, kids will be able to learn how to grow herbs, create their own music score, make a cardbox car with Dad and even be treated to a concert!


With so many activities taking place at Marina Square this June School Holidays, it is every family's one-stop mall for all kid-centric entertainment!



Useful Information

Adventure with Tayo the Little Bus
Dates: 28 May - 10 Jun 2016
Timings: Fri - Sun 2pm, 4pm & 7pm | Tue - Thur 3pm & 7pm
Venue: Marina Square, Atrium

Toy Fair & Fringe Activities
Dates: 27 May - 12 Jun 2016
Venue: Marina Square, Atrium

The Cutest Kid Photo Contest
Dates: 27 May - 12 Jun 2016

Website: www.marinasquare.com.sg/happenings/promotions/view/2824

Ellipz Study Lamp: Possibly the ONLY Eye Care Lamp for Kids + GIVEAWAY!

$
0
0
Product Review

Singapore's myopia rates are one of the highest in the world. But you already know that, don't you?

In fact, a 2012 study on child myopia by NUS' School of Public Health shows that the myopia rates are 29% in Singapore among six-year-old children in Singapore. I shudder to think what that figure is right now.

Considering the fact that kids nowadays spend most of their time poring over their books, it should not come as a surprise actually. But surprisingly, staring at books is not one of the main culprits of having a high myopic rate. Using inferior lighting is also detrimental to our kids' eyes in the long run.

Which is why it is so important to choose the right light for them to read and do their homework in good lighting conditions. And that is where the Ellipz technology comes in.


Ellipz Lighting is a Dutch company founded in Holland when two members of the Philips (yes, that huge Dutch electronics company) family teamed up with inventor John Rooymans with one mission in mind - to create LED lights that emit light that perfectly matches the sensitivity of the human eye for indoor and night-time vision.

White light is created by mixing the proper amount of light from red, green and blue LEDs. Without getting into complicated physics, there is an inverse relationship between the wavelength of light rays and the amount of energy they contain. Light rays with longer wavelengths contain less energy, and those with short wavelengths have more energy.


So rays on the red end of the visible light spectrum have longer wavelengths and hence, less energy. Rays on the blue end of the spectrum have shorter wavelengths and more energy.

Because they are shorter, these "Blue" wavelengths flicker more easily than longer, weaker wavelengths. This kind of flickering creates a glare that can reduce visual contrast and affect sharpness and clarity which may be one of the reasons for eye strain, headaches, physical and mental fatigue caused by many hours sitting in front of a computer screen, under a LED lamp or other electronic device, which are one of the many sources of blue light.


The biggest problem is our eyes are not very good at blocking blue light - which explains why our eyes feel tired after prolonged usage of an electronic device or doing work under a table lamp.

Yes, most of the current table study lamps in the market consist of LED lighting that emit blue light (because it is cheaper to manufacture). Hence, the need to include a 'polarizing filter'. And even though the filter is claimed to reduce the glare, it does NOT cut out the harmful blue light. And prolonged exposure to blue light may cause retinal damage and contribute to age-related macular degeneration, which can lead to loss of vision.

Enter the Eye Care Lamp from Ellipz Lighting.


For starters, Ellipz Lighting uses CYAN phosphors base LED instead of blue base LED. And this is a HUGE difference because it ensures that blue light is kept to a minimum with its unique LED technology and its blue light content is 40% lesser compare to other LED table lamps. So there is NO blue light hazard!


And no, there isn't any need for the Ellipz lamp to come with a polarizing filter simply because it is designed to be Anti-Glare and Flicker-Free.


Features-wise, the lamp allows control of up to 5 levels of brightness with just a touch of one's fingertip.


It even comes with a LCD display for date and time too - perfect for the instances when the boys are doing their mock exam papers during revision time so that they can keep track of their times! LOL.


The study lamp also allows for flexible angle adjustments, thanks to its 3 pivoting points. In fact, it can even be used as an up-light as the light source can be rotated to face upwards. I also found it to be extremely useful to use the lamp for photographing products that I am reviewing!


The great thing about the Ellipz Eye Care Lamp is it has one of the highest Color Rendering Index, which translates to enabling one's eyes to see true colours... as can be seen by the photo below.


I took the photo in a room with the curtains drawn and only with the lamp switched on. Very impressive!

The other thing I love about the study lamp is how absolutely little space it takes up on the table.


And when not in use, I simply push the lamp's arm downwards. No unsightly or space-wasting headaches.


Oh, and did I mention that the lamp also comes with a USB Port as an extra power source to charge your devices at the same time?

With kids of today spending so many hours of study under artificial lighting - and that's excluding the time spent in front of electronic devices! - the risk of prolonged exposure to harmful light, and blue light in particular, is very real.

The Ellipz Eye Care Lamp contains NO blue light hazard and is specially designed for kids to use. It allows them to see clearer, better and in the right colours with quality natural white light and in the process, protect their eyes by generating less stress and strain which greatly slow the progression of myopia.

And that is all that matters, if you ask me.


GIVEAWAY!

Thanks for Ellipz Lighting, I have THREE sets of Ellipz Eye Care Lamp to give away!


For a chance to win, all you have to do is do the following:

Tell me one feature of the Ellipz Eye Care Lamp that you love.

Leave your comment either in the comment section of this blog post OR on our Cheekiemonkies' Facebook corresponding post HERE

WANT TO INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING?
SHARE this blog post of the giveaway on Facebook for a bonus chance! Remember to set your profile to public so that I can see the shared post.

Giveaway ends on 10 June 2016, 2359 hours.

Good Luck! :)


The Ellipz Eye Care Lamp is currently retailing at a promotional price of S$179.10 (U.P. S$199) at all local Popular Bookstores.

For enquiries, contact Beste (Singapore) Pte Ltd (Exclusive Distributor) at +65-6552 2422 or email info@beste.com.sg.

Why This Blue Wristband will be Dads' Best Friend for the Whole Month of June

$
0
0

DADS are all set for a month of FUN in June... because they are being celebrated in a BIG way!

For the first time, restaurants, retailers and attractions will becoming together this June in support of the “Celebrating Fathers” initiative in Singapore. And in order to reap the benefits, all Dads have to do is to keep this blue band on their wrists whenever they are outside.


To date, 700,000 "My Dad for Life" kits consisting of a Father's Day card and wristband have been distributed to all children aged 2 - 19 across childcare centres, kindergartens, and MOE schools as well as full-time National Servicemen (NSFs).

Another 150,000 kits will be distributed in the community to fathers who do not have children in the school or national service systems. Dads can pick up a kit at the customer service counters of all SAFRA Clubs, and at cashier counters in Ya Kun Kaya Toast outlets across Singapore. Another 5,000 wristbands have been deposited at National Gallery Singapore too.

So what can this little blue wristband do?


Dads who wear the wristbands in June will be entitled to special deals at almost 200 locations islandwide! These deals are offered by over 40 community partners supporting the “Celebrating Fathers”initiative.

Ranging from fun and dining to shopping, dads can enjoy exclusive promotions just by flashing the blue wristband on their wrists! Some deals include enjoying free entry to attractions with a paying child and discounts offered at dining and retail establishments. Some restaurants are even offering increasing discounts based on the generations of Dads dining - 10% off when dining with Dad, 15% off when dining with Grandpa or 25% off when dining with Great Grandpa!

With so many deals on offer, I have picked out some of the more enticing ones:

FUN

Combat Skirmish
Website

- Father playing free with an accompanying child
- Additional free family photo with frame with Grandparents playing

Terms & Conditions:
Valid all day 10am to 5.30pm
Valid from: 1 to 30 June 2016

Gardens by the Bay
Website

- GB Family Package (2 Adult & 2 Child) to 2 Conservatories (Flower Dome & Cloud Forest) at $50 per package (UP. $64)
- 20% off local admission rates to 2 Conservatories (Flower Dome & Cloud Forest) at $50 per package (U.P. $64)

Kindly refer HERE for promotion mechanics and Terms & Conditions.

Madame Tussauds Singapore
Website

- Dads enter for free when accompanied by a ticket holder.

Terms & Conditions:
Valid from 1 to 30 June 2016
Tickets must be purchased at Madame Tussauds Singapore admissions counter or here.

Mega Adventure
Website

- 1 Complimentary Parajump for Fathers when purchased with a single Megazip.

Terms & Conditions:
Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, promotion, or discount. Subject to availability. Height and weight restrictions apply.
Valid from 1 to 30 June 2016

National Gallery Singapore
Website

- 5 complimentary tickets (worth up to S$125) to our latest Special Exhibition, “Reframing Modernism”, co-curated with The Centre Pompidou in Paris.

Feast your eyes on masterpieces from renowned Southeast Asian masters such as Georgette Chen (Singapore), Le Pho (Vietnam), Affandi (Indonesia) and Tang Chang (Thailand), alongside European masters Pablo Picasso, Marc Chagall, Jean Dubuffett, and more.

Valid from 1 to 30 June 2016

Sentosa 4D Adventureland
Website

- Package 1: 1 Adult + 1 Child + 1 Dad (FOC) = S$59.90 ($104.70)
- Package 2: 1 Adult + 2 Children + 1 Dad (FOC) = S$83.90 ($131.60)
Valid from 1 to 30 June 2016

Sentosa
Website

- 10% off Sentosa Islander Family Membership
Flash Dads for Life Wristband at Sentosa Islander Counters (Sentosa Station, Beach Station and Merlion Plaza) to enjoy the discount.

Singapore Cable Car
Website

 - Child flies for Free (worth $22) with 2 paying Adult Cable Car Sky Pass.

Singapore Flyer
Website

- One free Singapore Flight ticket (adult) for fathers, with minimum purchase of any 3 Singapore Flight tickets (adult/child/senior)

Terms & Conditions:
Valid at Ticketing Counters only
Valid for local residents only (Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents, and Work Pass Holders)

DINING

Bangkok Jam
Website

The whole family benefits when you dine in with dad! Bring grandpa and great grandpa along for an even bigger celebration!

- 10% off when dining with Father
- 15% off when dining with Grandfather
- 25% off when dining with Great Grandfather

Terms and Conditions:
Valid from 1st – 30th June, 2016.
Valid Monday to Thursday and Father’s Day (19th June) only.

Big Street
Website

- 10% discount off the family meal
- 20% discount off the family meal – for multi-generational families
- 5% discount off catering orders for 30 pax and above

Terms and Conditions:
Valid from: 1 to 30 June 2016
Discounts not applicable on drinks during Happy Hour and Promotional sets.

Chong Qing Grilled Fish
Website

- 10% off Total Bill

Terms and Conditions:
Valid for the month of June 2016 only. Applicable to ala carte items only. Not valid in conjunction with any other promotions, vouchers or membership privileges. Not valid on eves of PH and PH.

d’Good Café
Website

- Enjoy 50% off second Main

Terms and Conditions:
Valid from 1 to 30 June 2016
A dad has to be present for the 50% discount to be valid
50% discount is not applicable for set meals and other promotional items

eat at taipei
Website

- 10% off when dining with Father
- 15% off when dining with Grandfather
- 25% off when dining with Great Grandfather

Terms and Conditions:
Valid from 1st – 30th June, 2016.
Valid Monday to Thursday and Father’s Day (19th June) only.

Fat Bird
Website

- 10% off Total Bill

Terms and Conditions:
Valid for the month of June 2016 only. Applicable to ala carte items only. Not valid in conjunction with any other promotions, vouchers or membership privileges. Not valid on eves of PH and PH.

Georges
Website

- 15% off family meal, 15% off if families show up with dads from different generations
- Dads enjoy Prevailing Happy Hour Prices all Nite Long

Terms & Conditions:
For dine in customers only.
Family meals include mains and nibbles menu.
Valid from 1 to 30 June 2016

Ice Cream Chefs
Website

- 10% off on Regular Cup of Ice Cream, applicable for Dads only.
- 1 free soft drink with every purchase of Regular/Large Waffle or Brownie, applicable for families who come with different generation of Dads

Terms & Conditions:
Redemption location at Ice Cream Chefs at SAFRA@Mount Faber
Not applicable with other promotions.
Only available on weekdays.
Valid from 1 to 30 June 2016

Kampong Café
Website

- 10% discount off the family meal
- 20% discount off the family meal – for multi-generational families
- 5% disocunt off catering orders for 30 pax and above

Terms & Conditions:
Discounts not applicable on drinks during Happy Hour and Promotional sets
Closed on Mondays
Valid from 1 to 30 June 2016

Majestic Bay Seafood Restaurant
Website

- 15% off a la carte food menu from Mondays to Fridays only.

PastaMania
Website

- 10% off a la carte
- One free Soup Set (comprises soup, garlic bread and drink) with min purchase of 2 a la carte pasta or pizza.

Terms & Conditions:
Discounts cannot be used in conjunction; one offer is allowed to be redeemed at any one time of redemption. Valid from 1 to 30 June 2016

Salad Chef 
Website

- 10% off any of our Chef-Designed Salads for dads who show up wearing the wristbands.
- 1 free Enoch Salad for every purchase of our Chef-Designed Salads for dads who show up with their child AND wearing the wristbands.

Shashlik

- 10% off on total food bill
- 1 glass of complimentary Draft Beer or choice of non-alcoholic drink

Terms & Conditions:
Valid for Dine-in orders only
Service charge and government tax apply
Not valid with other VIP offers, promotions and credit card offers
Valid from 1 to 30 June 2016

Siam Kitchen
Website

- 10% off when dining with Father
- 15% off when dining with Grandfather
- 25% off when dining with Great Grandfather

Terms and Conditions:
Valid from 1st – 30th June, 2016.
Valid Monday to Thursday and Father’s Day (19th June) only.

SUKI-YA
Website

- 10% off when dining with Father
- 15% off when dining with Grandfather
- 25% off when dining with Great Grandfather

Terms and Conditions:
Valid from 1st – 30th June, 2016.
Valid Monday to Thursday and Father’s Day (19th June) only.
Valid at all SUKI-YA Outlets except Plaza Singapura and Bugis

Swensen’s
Website

- 10% off family meal at Swensen’s

Terms and Conditions:
Valid for dine-in only, with minimum purchase of S$50 before service charge and GST, at all Swensen’s outlets in Singapore, excluding Earle Swensen’s.

Swissbake
Website

- 10% off main course, kraftwich and salad
- 15% off with any 3 main courses, kraftwich (sandwich) and salad purchased

United Square Shopping Mall

- Enjoy a cup of FREE hot beverage when you flash your wristband at the Concierge, L1. (Only applicable on 18 and 19 June.)

Vineyard at HortPark
Website

- 10% off when dining with Father
- 15% off when dining with Grandfather
- 25% off when dining with Great Grandfather

Terms and Conditions:
Valid from 1st – 30th June, 2016.
Valid Monday to Thursday and Father’s Day (19th June) only.

Ya Kun
Website

- Fathers with the writsband will be entitled to a free upsized Hot Coffee/Tea with every set meal purchased.

SHOPPING

dENiZEN
Website

- 10% off any shirts

Terms & Conditions:
Offer Valid from 1 June to 30 June 2016
Valid at all dENiZENTM Boutiques only

Levi’s
Website

- Jeans at $99.

Terms & Conditions:
Valid from 1 June to 30 June 2016
Promotion is valid for all regular-priced jeans priced from $119.90 to $169.90 only
Valid at all Levi’s stores island-wide
Not vaild in conjunction with other promotion, discounts, offers, privilleges etc


For ALL other deals for Dads, visit HERE.

BUT THAT'S NOT ALL.

Volunteers will be out on the streets to spot fathers who are wearing the wristbands in the month of June.

Fathers who are "spotted" will receive a surprise token of appreciation - a goodie bag filled with products from partners - in recognition of their contributions to their families and to encourage them to continue being an involved father.

TIP: The Dad Spotting Movement begins this Saturday (4 June 2016) at Bishan (11.30am) and Tampines (2pm)!

Subsequent locations, dates and timings for the "Dad Spotting" events will be updated weekly at Dads For Life's Facebook page.

In addition, a special event called Dads' Day Out will be held at the OCBC Square at the Singapore Sports Hub on Father's Day, 19 June 2016 (9am - 6pm)! There will be fun-filled activities for all, stage games and appearances by favourite Mediacorp artistes. The event is FREE for all, and more details can be found HERE.


So DADS, for the whole month of June, remember... Get your blue wristband and DO NOT leave home without it!


For more information, visit dadsforlife.sg.

Rebounding Fun for Families at BOUNCE Singapore Trampoline Park!

$
0
0
Media Invite

BOUNCE, one of the world’s best indoor adrenaline-packed arena that combines recreation, fitness and fun opens at the heart of Orchard Road.

And yes, it is the newest trampoline park in town!


Located at Cathay Cineleisure Orchard, BOUNCE features three zones on a 24,000 sq ft arena which consists of trampolines (including an Olympic grade, high performance area), X-Park (a ninja warrior-like obstacle course & the first in Asia), and Leap of Faith. More than enough adrenaline fun to keep everyone in the family entertained, if you ask me!


Best of all, BOUNCE Singapore caters to almost everyone from kids aged three and above to youths, adults and fitness enthusiasts.

And if you are planning to take the kids, there are SEVEN activities at BOUNCE for them to go bonkers over. Well actually, count the adults in as well!

Free Jumping Area

With 28 interconnected trampolines incorporating a series of longer tumble tracks and angled banked wall, this spring-loaded urban playground is the perfect place to Jump, Bounce. Jump, Bounce. Jump, Bounce. And repeat.


Who knew jumping on the trampolines could be this much fun? In fact, everyone was having such a carefree time jumping around that we hardly noticed that we were in the middle of a cardio workout.


Yes, in case you didn't know, according to a study completed by NASA, a 10 minute jump on a trampoline is equivalent to a 30 minute run! I will definitely take jumping over running anytime.


Exclusively for junior jumpers of at least 3 years of age and under 110cm in height, they will also have a designated jumping zone cordoned off for them from 10am – 4pm on weekdays and 10am – 12pm on weekends.


Big Bag

Here, one can launch oneself into the air via a trampoline and hurtle onto an enormous air bag. And it's strangely addictive!


Yes, I launched myself onto the Big Bag too.

No, the Big Bag did not burst.

The Wall

Here, kids and parents can drive (or bounce) themselves up the wall. Literally.


With the aid of high-rebound capabilities of Performance Trampolines, jumpers will be able to run up the wall. No doubt Wall Running may take a while to master, but something tells me it should come with practice.

Do note however, that the Wall Run is only permitted for jumpers who are taller than 125cm.

Slam Dunk


The Slam Dunk area features full-height rings sitting above runway trampolines, surrounded by padded walls and floor mats - the stage is all set to show off one's dunking prowess.


Trampoline Dodgeball

Otherwise known as "the place where everyone can hit each other with balls and NOT get into trouble", two teams throw soft ‘bowling ball’ sized dodgeballs at each other as they jump around the court. If you hit an opponent with a ball, that person is out. Last player bouncing wins.


X-Park

If you have always haboured secret desires to test out a Ninja Warrior-styled obstacle course, this is your best bet.


BOUNCE Singapore is the first location in Asia to feature this signature indoor adventure challenge course – X-Park.


Designed to allow challenge and diversity for both first timers and free-running masters, this adventure obstacle course incorporates 15 different elements with varying routes for beginners through to experts.


So expect plenty of climbing, jumping, free-running and swinging.


Not all challenges can be completed by kids though as some are only meant for adults. But the beauty of the X-Park is that each element can be explored as a stand-alone challenge or navigated as one circuit with different levels of difficulty.


And for the grand finale - zipping on the aerial runway to the finish line!


Undoubtedly, the X-Park is the boys' fave activity of the lot!

Feeling competitive? Purchase an RFID (Radio-Frequency ID) band at the reception and time yourself against a friend! Simply swipe it against the RFID reader at the start and end of your X-Park challenge to track your timings on the big video wall. The RFID band is fully reusable and can be kept for future BOUNCE Singapore visits.

NOTE: Proper footwear – sneakers or sports shoes – is required to take on the X-Park adventure challenge course. A minimum 125cm height required for all participants.

Leap of Faith

Another first for Singapore, 'Leap of Faith' presents the ultimate personal challenge. Adventure junkies who love the rush of adrenaline can test their physical (and mental) limits by jumping from a raised platform and leaping out to catch hold of the grab bag.


NOTE: Additional charges apply for Leap of Faith. Tickets can only be purchased at the sales counter at $5 per jump or $10 per 3 jumps.


After jumping and clearing obstacles for one hour, I think it is safe to say that the boys were thoroughly exhausted.


For parents who wish to take the more chillax approach, South 38, BOUNCE’s very own café serves up a variety of Australian-styled café dishes including toasted sandwiches, muffins, milkshakes and Melbourne-style coffee made from fresh, air-flown Australian coffee beans. And yes, free Wi-Fi is available too.

Planning a birthday celebration? BOUNCE Singapore also has three Party Rooms that can hold a maximum of 20 pax per room or a total of 60 pax combined. Visit HERE for more details on party packages.

In addition, fitness classes will also be launched at a later date. Classes in the pipeline are Bounce Fit – much like aerobics on trampolines, Flight Academy – where participants will learn cool tricks on trampolines and lastly, Mini Bounce classes for the kids.

Things to take note:

- It is compulsory for all participants to purchase a pair of specially designed BOUNCE Grip socks ($3/pair) before entry into the adrenaline arenas. The BOUNCE grip socks can be kept for future BOUNCE visits.


- Minimum age allowed to jump is 3 years old

- Weight limit of 120kg

- A session runs for 60mins & begins on the hour

- Jumpers are advised to arrive at least 20min before the session, to allow time for signing waivers, putting on socks and listening to the safety brief.


- All participants will also have to sign a waiver before entry into the adrenaline arenas. Participants aged 18 years and below will require parental consent – completion of the form can be done in advanced through an e-service.

- Lockers will be available on-site for patrons to store their belongings.

- Toilets are located on the same floor.

I also have to give a special mention to all the BOUNCE staff stationed at the various activity areas. Everyone has to go through a short briefing before the start of every activity and the rules are adhered to strictly - one person per trampoline at all times, no rough play and minimal overcrowding at each activity area.


Pity that Ale could not join her brothers this time round but you know what that means... the boys will be using it as an excuse for us to visit BOUNCE one more time!




Useful Information

BOUNCE Singapore
#09-01, Cathay Cineleisure Orchard
8 Grange Road, Singapore 239695
Opening Hours: Sun-Thurs 10am – 10pm | Fri-Sat 10am – midnight
Admission charges:
General Access - $24 for first hour & $19 for subsequent hour
(INTRODUCTORY SPECIAL: $19 for first hour & $14 for subsequent hour)
Junior Jumpers (at least 3 yrs old & under 110cm) - $17 for first hour & $12 for subsequent hour
Student Session (Student ID required) - $19 for first hour & $14 for subsequent hour (Mon to Fri only)
Website: www.Bounceinc.com.sg
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BounceSG/


I Believe I Can Fly... a Drone + GIVEAWAY!

$
0
0
Product Review

There is something pretty fun in flying a drone. Perhaps it has to do with the thrill of navigating an electronic flying object freely in the air, or the opportunity to perform flips with the drone in mid-air. Whatever it is, both Ash and Ayd love drone flying and we have owned at least 3 sets in the past 2 years. Unfortunately, the quality of those drones were found to be lacking and they usually did not last for long - especially for one which was sent crashing down onto the pavement!

So I have sworn off from all drone buying... well, that was until 65drones sent me some of their latest drone products and changed my view about drones.


65drones is a local company which first began selling drones on Carousell. They have since expanded their operations and set up retail boxes in shopping malls around Singapore. And the range of drones that they carry varies greatly, from drones suited for beginners to professional ones.

For me, the first drone that caught my (and Ale's) eye was this little cute thing.


This Cheerson CX-STARS quadcopter is so cute and tiny that I could not resist in testing it out immediately.


Ok, actually Ale was the one who eventually got to try it out first and to my surprise, she steadied the mini drone after a few tries! At S$32, this drone makes for a great birthday or Christmas gift.


For the boys though, the real biggie has got to be these two babies.

The Alien X6s hexacopter.


The Alien X6 Pro hexacopter.


The Alien X6s is an older model with a slightly smaller body while the Alien X6 Pro is new on the market, with a larger body and more features. And as you can probably guess, the boys could not wait to test their new toys!


For some strange reason, the boys mastered the art of flying the drones in less than 5 minutes. I took waaaay longer than that... partly due to the fact they were practically hogging the drones the moment they got all skilful with them!


The great thing about the Alien X6 drones is they are perfect for both beginners and experienced fliers. For beginners, the drone has a 'headless' mode which essentially means that the drone flies in the direction of your transmitter - which also means there is no complicated deciphering of direction.

And yes, it is kid-safe too. Not only does the drone come with child-safe propeller guards, it has a Beginner mode which limits the height (up to 30cm above ground) and speed that the drone can fly.

And once you are more accustomed to flying it, there are 2 other speed modes: Standard and Professional, which allow for more sophisticated manoeuvres like 360-degree flips!


As the Alien X6 drones are hexacopters with 6 motors instead of the conventional 4 motors on a quadcopter, the boys found the drones very stable to flown outdoors... and even indoors! And even if you crash the drone on a hard floor (I did it on 2 occasions and the boys threatened not to allow me to fly the drones again. Drats.), I realised that the body of the drones are pretty sturdy and durable.

The Alien X6 Pro comes with FPV (First Person View) which allows the flier to see what the drone sees. Just download the app on your smartphone and you can see what the drone sees from up above on your mobile device.


For more added fun, the drones also come equipped with a 2 Mega-pixels 720p camera (45-degree tilt) for photo and video taking.


Obviously, its camera quality isn't the best but I guess it is on par with other drones of similar size. That said, I still have to master the art of snapping a photo while STILL controlling the drone in mid-air.


The drones give up to 12 minutes of flight time, which is pretty standard for drones. The flight time actually depends on the height at which you are flying. Battery recharging time takes about 60 minutes.


Personally, I love how the Alien X6 drones are built - compact and sturdy but yet still packs a punch in terms of performance. So if you are shopping around for a drone for your child, these drones offer a balanced flying experience. Not only will it be easy for the kids to manoeuvre and fun to fly, the drones (S$129 for AlienX6 Pro and S$89 for Alien X6s) will not burn a hole in your wallet either. 


Whether you are new to quadcopters and looking for something light and easy to play around with, or an aspiring drone pilot looking for a trainer drone to hone your flying skills, these drones from 65drones are a great way to get you started in the world of drone flying.


GIVEAWAY

Thanks to 65drones, I have ONE Alien X6 Pro to give away!


For a chance to win, all you have to do is do the following:

1. LIKE 65drones' Facebook page HERE.

2. Tell me why you will love to win the Alien X6 Pro for your child... or for yourself! Leave your comment either in the comment section of this blog post OR on our Cheekiemonkies' Facebook corresponding post HERE

NOTE: You have to complete both steps in order to qualify for the giveaway.

WANT TO INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING?
SHARE this blog post of the giveaway on Facebook for a bonus chance! Remember to set your profile to public so that I can see the shared post.

Giveaway ends on 15 June 2016, 2359 hours.

Good Luck! :)

Useful Information

65drones
Website: www.65drones.com
The Alien X6 Pro and Alien X6s are retailing for S$129 and S$89 respectively at the following locations: , Dacube@ serangoon Nex Mall, Boxboss@ Century Square, Boxboss@ Clementi Mall, Toy outpost @ Waterway point and Toy outpost @ Vivocity.

Here's how Kids can Join the Ultimate Mission Camp with Marvel & Frozen characters!

$
0
0
Advertorial

Are there any kids who are unfamiliar with Iron Man, Spider-Man, Elsa, Anna and Olaf?

I think not.

What if I told you that come 20 August 2016, Dutch Lady will be organising a MASSIVE Ultimate Mission Camp featuring Disney Frozen and Marvel characters!


And on top of that, it will be a Mission Camp of EPIC proportions because it will involve kids from FIVE countries and every kid will congregate in Singapore to face the ultimate challenges at the camp.

What are the challenges, you ask?


There will be challenges to please every superhero or princess aspirant.

Just ask Ale and Ayd. 

A few weeks back, they received a secret Mission Box from Dutch Lady and with it, came a special invitation to join Disney at the Dutch Lady Ultimate Mission Camp. There were training challenges to prepare for the real challenges at the Dutch Lady Ultimate Mission Camp!


Watch the moment when they unboxed the surprise and gamely took on the Milky Pack Challenge in the video below.


In fact, they went on and completed the Tower and Tunnel Challenges as well... which you can see how they did at the Mission Central YouTube ChannelHEREDon’t forget to subscribe!


If you think your child is ready to meet his/her favourite characters from Marvel and Frozen, Dutch Lady is currently searching for TWENTY recruits to join in the fun at the Ultimate Mission Camp!

All you have to do is the following:

1. Purchase any 2 blister packs of Dutch Lady Milky Packs featuring your favourite Disney Frozen and Marvel characters.

2. Register or log in HERE to participate. Share which Marvel (Captain America, Thor, Spider-Man, Iron Man) or Disney Frozen character (Anna, Elsa, Olaf) featured on the Dutch Lady Milky Packs is your child's favourite and why. 

3. Snap a photo of the valid participating receipt and submit online.

Visit www.dutchlady.com.sg/mission-camp.html for more information. Hurry though, as the campaign ends on 30 JUNE 2016!

SO... are you ready to join the monkies at Dutch Lady's Ultimate Mission Camp on 20 August 2016?


You know what you have to do - Purchase 2 Dutch Lady Blister Packs to stand a chance to win a place and have your kid be one of the recruits at the Dutch Lady Ultimate Mission Camp 2016!

SEE YOU THERE!

Children's Season 2016: The Monkies Experience + GIVEAWAY!

$
0
0
Advertorial

In case you did not know, Children's Season 2016 is already more than halfway through its run... but the good news is there is still ample time for kids to enjoy most of the activities!


Presented by the National Heritage Board, Children’s Season is an action-packed festival during the June school holidays and is held across various museums island-wide. Expect a range of kid-centric programmes and engaging family activities that will inspire, engage and educate. In fact, there are a total of more than 70 programmes specially designed for the kiddos spread across 27 locations in Singapore!

I had previously picked out some of the more notable programmes for parents to bring their kids to in an earlier post. So while there are the usual faves in the form of National Museum of Singapore, Asian Civilisations Museum and Science Centre Singapore, there are actually plenty more lesser known locations which offer Children's Season activities as well.

So over one weekend, I gathered the monkies and visited 4 of such locations. Here was what we got up to:

Infocomm Experience Centre IExperience


Located at the heart of the city in Esplanade Xchange along the underground linkway between Raffles City and Suntec City, the Information & Communications Technology Experience Centre (IExperience) reopened in June 2015 after renovation works. The centre showcases a wide range of services and applications enabled through the innovative use of infocomm for businesses, consumers, Government and overseas visitors.

The interactive and engaging exhibits are designed to provide visitors with hands-on experience and demonstrate the possibilities of Smart Nation services to enterprises for business adoption, and to consumers for use in their daily lives.


Continuing with the IT theme, the centre organised a series of 'Children Tech Play' workshops as part of the Children's Season 2016 programme line-up.


The workshop allowed children aged from 6 to 12 years old, to develop creative thinking and collaborative skills through the use of programming. Kids from 6 to 8 years old could join the RoboPlay workshop where they would gain a deeper insight into robotics and basic programming skills. 9 to 12 year-olds would be in the CodePlay workshop where they will develop problem-solving skills through game programming.


Sounds fun? You betcha. Especially since it involves the use of iPads and LEGO blocks - always a welcome combination to get all the kids excited.


Ash and Ayd participated in the RoboPlay workshop as the other workshop was full. But that did not mean that they found it boring. On the contrary, they had so much fun programming their LEGO robot together with their group members!


The boys were tasked to navigate a maze using a set of commands programmed on the iPad. Along the way, they had to perform certain tasks too.


I think it is safe to say that they thoroughly enjoyed it... in fact, they did not want to leave even after the workshop ended!


Singapore Discovery Centre


An ‘edutainment’ centre that examines Singapore’s past, present and future, Singapore Discovery Centre is a hands-on experience ideal for kids. Whether it is testing your knowledge of Singapore food, culture and customs in a quiz show, learning traditional dance moves at the Digital Dance Studio, or challenging yourself to think smart and act fast at the Crisis Timescope exhibit to save Singapore from a bomb blast at an MRT station, there are plenty of activities to keep families busy.

And with programmes and installations added in tuned with Children's Season 2016, families can even go on a single passport adventure, which allows everyone to ‘travel’ to 10 countries around the ASEAN region!


Armed with the 'Passport to Discovery: My ASEAN Adventure' (Pick up your FREE copy at the ticketing counter),  kids will be able to explore the ASEAN Pulse bazaar with 10 ASEAN Country Pavilions and discover the diverse range of goods that each country produces for the region and the global market.


Walking through the exhibition, kids will be able to learn more about the many interesting things about ASEAN’s cultural diversity and richness, and understand the importance of cooperation and friendships with our neighbours.


I have to admit that initially, I thought that the ASEAN topic might be too boring or too complicated for kids to understand. But kudos to the team who set up the exhibition, they managed to simplify most of the facts and information through the use of colourful and easy-to-understand info-graphics.


And the result? The monkies actually spent a fair amount of time at each country pavilion.


Well, having the chance to earn a stamp with every destination certainly helped too!


At the end of the little adventure and after collecting 10 stamps, they were able to a redeem a little gift - a paper 3D model - for their efforts.


If your child wish to get all crafty with their hands (like mine), then be sure to head to Singapore Discovery Centre's main lobby for the FREE ASEAN Drop-in Craft sessions!


Kids will be able to create their own uniquely designed craft, one that they will be able to bring home. The type of craft changes on a weekly basis and while we were there, the monkies got to make their own Krathongs.


Did you know that the Army Museum is just located next to Singapore Discovery Centre?


Children's Season 2016 sees the return of the ever-popular Cadets, Fall In! programme where kids will learn about Army life through an outdoor 'Survival!' field camp, a laser tag game mission, and a Special Exhibition. Kids can also don one of the many child-sized uniforms, complete with accessories! For more information on other programmes, visit HERE.

Singapore Maritime Gallery


If your kids are ship fans, then the Singapore Maritime Gallery is a must-visit! Learn how Singapore transformed into one of the world’s leading International Maritime Centres and enter the fascinating world of port operations.

One highlight is the Ship Bridge Simulator where kids can sit in a realistic mockup of a ship bridge, be captain for the day and choose to steer a variety of ships. Walk through an actual 20-foot cargo container and see a large ship model known as the Big Ship.


As part of Children's Season 2016, kids will be able to go on a guided tour to unearth past milestones of Singapore’s transformation from a trading post to a global hub port. Specially tailored for kids, the AHOY! tour will shed light on the importance of Maritime Singapore and the role it plays in our daily lives.


Got kids who love story-telling? Be sure to attend the Stories and Art of the Deep Blue Sea session where kids will get acquainted with the magical story of Swimmy by Leo Lionni. Narrated by Playeum Pte Ltd, Swimmy will let the young ones discover the different fauna and flora of the marine life, and learn the importance of keeping the oceanic environment clean. Kids will also get to make their own sea creature puppet for role-play and drama after the workshop!


Or they can always choose leave their mark on an upcoming installation project at the Singapore Maritime Gallery!


The Gallery will be closing its doors in July 2016 to undergo a revamp. When it reopens in November 2016, there are plans to incorporate an art installation into its design and that is when all the colourful hand prints will come in erm... handy.


Using paint, kids can create an artwork using their hands and other sponge moulds. And unsurprisingly, the monkies had loads of fun getting their hands all dirty (and colourful)!

Singapore Sports Museum


As the first sports-related Museum in Singapore, the Singapore Sports Museum boasts a fully immersive exhibition as visitors are taken through an educational experience that transports them into a world of Singapore's sporting history through exciting, engaging and interactive elements.


For Children's Season at Singapore Sports Museum, kids can learn what it takes to be a coach, design their own stadium, medal, mascot and trophy.


With doodling and colouring on offer, you can be sure that the Children's Season programme here will definitely appeal to younger kids. Even then, the boys still gamely participated in the activity!


For older kids, I reckon the interesting exhibits at the Sports Museum will appeal to them... like the bits and pieces from the old National Stadium such as the stadium’s lights, Lee Kuan Yew’s official opening speech in 1973 and foundation stones that dot all around the museum, including these old stadium seats!


The boys had a great time eyeballing the memorabilia on display, including Tan Howe Liang's Olympics silver medal, as well as reading up on the history of Singapore's most decorated sportsmen and sportswomen.



And while the boys were busy scrutinizing the exhibits, Ale definitely enjoyed the doodling and colouring session!


Two weekends are all that is left of Children's Season 2016 so you have to be quick if you wish to bring your kids down for its kid-friendly activities! To make it easier, National Heritage Board has specially curated a series of three-hour museum itineraries that will bring families to museums around the island that feature many different aspects of Singapore’s arts, heritage and culture.

For the remaining two weekends, you may wish to use the following as a reference:


Be sure to check I Love Museums'Facebook page for updates!

GIVEAWAY

Thanks to National Heritage Board, I have 5 sets of Children's Season 2016 merchandise to give away!

For a chance to win, all you have to do is do the following:

1. LIKE I Love Museums' Facebook page HERE.

2. Tell me which museum's Children's Season 2016 programme your child love best!
Leave your comment either in the comment section of this blog post OR on our Cheekiemonkies' Facebook corresponding post HERE. 

NOTE: You have to complete both steps in order to qualify for the giveaway.

WANT TO INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING?
SHARE this blog post of the giveaway on Facebook for a bonus chance! Remember to set your profile to public so that I can see the shared post.

Giveaway ends on 22 June 2016, 2359 hours.

Good Luck! :)


Useful Information

Singapore Discovery Centre
Free Admission for Singapore Citizens & PRs; Admission charges apply for others.

Oh, The Places You’ll Go!
28 May to 26 Jun | 10am to 5pm | 3 to 16 years old

ASEAN Pulse
28 May to 26 Jun | All Ages

Passport to Discovery: ‘My ASEAN Adventure’
28 May to 29 May, 03 Jun to 05 Jun, 10 Jun to 12 Jun, 17 Jun to 19 Jun, 24 Jun to 26 Jun
10am to 5pm | 3 to 16 years old


Singapore Maritime Gallery
Free Admission

AHOY!
28 May to 29 May, 04 Jun to 05 Jun, 11 Jun to 12 Jun, 18 Jun to 19 Jun, 25 Jun to 26 Jun
10:30am and 3:30pm | 3 to 12 years old

Stories and Art of the Deep Blue Sea
28 May to 29 May, 04 Jun to 05 Jun, 11 Jun to 12 Jun, 18 Jun to 19 Jun, 25 Jun to 26 Jun
2pm - 3.15pm | 3 to 8 years old

Hand Print Art
28 May to 29 May, 04 Jun to 05 Jun, 18 Jun to 19 Jun, 25 Jun to 26 Jun
11.30am to 12.30pm & 4.30 to 5.30pm | All Ages


Singapore Sports Museum
FREE Admission for Singapore Citizens & PRs
Standard: Adult $10 | Student & Senior Citizen (above 60) $5 | FREE for kids below 6

28 May to 26 Jun | Weekdays: 10am to 8pm; Weekends, Eve of Public Holidays and Public Holidays: 10am to 9pm | 6 to 12 years old


Website: www.museums.com.sg/cs16

Activities for Kids at SmartKids Asia during Youth Day Weekend

$
0
0
Advertorial

If you have missed this year's March edition of SmartKids Asia, GOOD NEWS because for the first time since 2012, SmartKids Asia will be returning for a second time this year! WOOHOO! 


In celebration of Youth Day which falls on 3 July 2016 - yes, 4 July (Mon) is a SCHOOL HOLIDAY by the way - SmartKids Asia promises an extensive line-up of family-themed activities such as meet & greet sessions with popular characters, free trial classes from leading enrichment centres, interactive activities, inflatable challenges, and even a Scholarship Programme.

With activities are tailored for parents with children between 3 to 12 of age, the three-day event from 1 to 3 July 2016 at Suntec Singapore Halls 405 & 406 will be Asia’s largest educational kids’ fair!


Did I mention that the fair is FREE admission for ALL? Combining education with health and family bonding activities, here are all that parents and kids can look forward to at SmartKids Asia this July:

The Five Smart Zones

Bringing to you the best of health, talent, play, fun and education, SmartKids Asia will be housing a collection of top-notch educational partners, enrichment providers, family-oriented brands, products and services.

SmartKids Asia’s Fun Passport


The Fun Passport is an interactive activity for children of all ages. Participants are to complete activities from 6 different pit stops from a list of many. Completion of the passport entitles one to spin the prize wheel with exclusive prizes up for grabs.


SmartKids Asia Scholarship Programme

Following the success in March of the first ever Scholarship Programme, a first in five years, SmartKids Asia will once again partner with key education providers to offer a new set of scholarships to deserving students during July's edition.

The Scholarship Programme aims to reward students, aged 5 - 12 years old, with one of the educational and arts programmes available. Registrants are to be assessed on-site by individual education providers on 1 & 2 July. Following the assessment, successful recipients will be chosen to receive the scholarships on stage at SmartKids Asia on Sunday, 3 July.

Stay tuned to their event page for the latest updates: http://bit.ly/1UYXdE2

The Inflatable Challenge


Children of all ages are welcome to take part in a time-challenged obstacle course will take place at the Inflatable Area. Admission is FREE.

Goodie Bag Giveaway

With a total of 1,500 goodie bags to be given away, registrants are to redeem the Goodie Bags (Worth up to $50) on-site from 10am onwards. Be early though, as the giveaway is limited to the first 500 registrants per day. Visit HERE for more information.

F-17 Futsal Challenge


In collaboration with F-17, Fandi Ahmad's Academy of Football Excellence, visitors can take part in SmartKids Asia’s first 1V1 challenge. Open to children aged 7 to 12 years old, prizes including a Football Scholarship will be awarded to the top players.

Sign up for football scholarship here: http://woobox.com/9pa8zw
Sign up for futsal challenge here: http://woobox.com/kmauoz


Youth Day Art Competition

Only happening on 1 July 2016 (Fri), bring your kids down to join in the Art Competition where a cash prize of $1000 cash is up for grabs!


Register HERE and receive a free goodie bag worth $50! (Registration of $5.00 applies)

Daily Stage Activities


A comprehensive set of stage segments from various exhibitors encompassing education, the arts and sports at SmartKids Asia. Expect plenty of performance AND games on stage to keep the kiddos enthralled!


Princess & Superhero Contest


Following its success in March, the Superhero & Princess Contest will showcase children of all ages donning creative theme costumes on stage. With a panel judges, the winners will be judged based on creativity, uniqueness and overall appeal. Top participants stand to win prizes worth up to $1,000. Register here to enter: http://woobox.com/8cabvb

Daily Lucky Draws with prizes worth more than $10,000

Visitors will be entitled to one chance in the lucky draw with every receipt of purchase. Happening once daily, $10,000 worth of prizes will include Disney hotel attraction passes and many more.

Free Trial Classes

Three days of trial classes from educational and enrichment providers will happen from 10am to 8pm daily. For the full list of activities available, visit HERE.

Meet & Greet sessions


I've saved the best for last - something that will no doubt thrill young kids: Meet & Greet with cartoon characters!


This July, SmartKids Asia will bring a set of FOUR popular characters: My Little Pony featuring Apple Jack, Twilight Sparkle and Rainbow Dash; Robocar Poli featuring Poli & Amber; Pororo & Friends featuring Pororo, Krong and Petty; and the characters from Sylvanian Families for three days of performances and Meet & Greet sessions.


SmartKids Asia is currently welcoming registrations for the Meet & Greet passes via their Facebook event page. So if you wish to secure those passes, you know where to head to!



So if you looking for a place to bring the kids during the Youth Day weekend, let them discover and experience educational stimulation and mind expanding FUN at SmartKids Asia!


Useful Information

SmartKids Asia – July 2016
Dates: 1 -3 July 2016
Timings: 10am to 9pm (Fri & Sat) and 10am to 8pm (Sun)
Venue: Suntec Singapore Hall 405 & 406
FREE Admission
Website: www.smartkidsasia.com
Facebook Event Page: http://bit.ly/1UYXdE2

OrthoSports: Clinic for Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine

$
0
0
Sponsored Review

Bones play many roles in the body. They support us and allow us to move. They protect our brain, heart, and other organs from injury. Our bones also store minerals such as calcium and phosphorous, which help keep our bones strong, and release them into the body when we need them for other uses. Which is why it is super important to keep them strong and healthy.

But did you know that bones typically reach peak bone mass before age 30? Of course, this varies from person to person but after age 30, it is safe to say that the bone building balance naturally shifts and more bone is lost than gained.

Now I know why my bones feel like shattering after an hour's worth of jumping at the trampoline park!

In all seriousness though, I learnt that there are many things we can do to keep our bones healthy and strong: Eating foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, getting plenty of exercise, and having good health habits are some of the ways we can help keep our bones healthy - thanks to a talk conducted by OrthoSports a few weekends ago.


Located at Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, OrthoSports specializes in offering services for patients with sports and orthopaedic problems. A recognised clinic in Singapore, its orthopaedic specialists and surgeons work with individuals who suffer from knee and shoulder problems as well as sports injuries. Anchored by a 3-man team, the Orthopaedic Surgeons at OrthoSports each have their own field of expertise.

Dr Ang Kian Chuan


Dr. Ang specialises in sports injuries especially of the knee and shoulder. In fact, he is actively involved with sporting events of all types, being the Team Physician to the Wanderers Rugby Club, Bedok Kings Rugby Club and Bucks Rugby Club. He also works closely with Amateur Muay Thai Association of Singapore. He was also featured on several Reality Television programs having been responsible for the medical care of the participants in the Contender Asia Muay Thai series as well as Season 4 of the Contender (Boxing) series by Mark Burnett productions.

Dr David Paul Bell


Dr. Bell is a specialist in management of traumatic injuries of the musculoskeletal system, deformity correction and degenerative conditions of the hip and knee, with a keen interest in the treatment of osteoporosis.  He is trained in the use of innovative and minimally invasive surgical techniques, leading to better outcomes for his patients.

As one ages, the bones in the body become weaker and more brittle, which often develops into a disease called osteoporosis. Dr. Bell shared that the likelihood of an individual developing osteoporosis depends on how much bone mass he attains by the time he reaches age 30 and how rapidly he loses it after that. In short, the higher your peak bone mass, the more bone you have "in the bank" and the less likely you are to develop osteoporosis as you age.

Dr Tan Ken Jin


Dr. Tan's speciality is in the area of Foot and Ankle disorders. So it comes as no surprise that he is also known as the Foot & Ankle Doctor, especially since he was a founding member of the Foot and Ankle Division since its inception at the National University Hospital. In 2006, he was also part of the NUH earthquake surgical relief team to Yogyakarta.

Admittedly, I paid the most attention to his talk because his topic struck close to home. You see, I have flat feet and they were the cause of the heel pain that I have experienced from time to time. And because flat feet are often hereditary, I worry for my monkies.

What I have learnt from Dr. Tan is for kids under the age of 7 years old, they have feet that are still growing and developing an arch. Hence, having a flatfoot can be part of normal development in many children and no formal treatment is necessary. In slightly older children after about 7 years of age, an arch may fail to develop. As they get more active, the flatfeet may cause pain and aches in the region of the arch of the foot. In these children, fitting of an insole may be beneficial. In some children, despite an insole, their symptoms persist and surgical correction can have a role.

And speaking of heel pain, as luck would have it... a few weeks after the OrthoSports talk, this happened.


See the tiny bump at the back of my heel?

A few weeks ago while the monkies were having a trial class at a soccer clinic, I attended a boot camp session which was offered to parents. I figured why not since I would be wasting my time doing nothing while waiting for the monkies to be done. Everything went well, I perspired, felt great, felt lighter (maybe subconsciously).... until 2 days later when I felt a sharp pain emanating from my right heel.

2 visits to the GP yielded no fruitful results and then I remembered Dr. Tan of OrthoSports. An appointment was hastily made and after my consultation, he diagnosed that I suffered a micro-injury to my Achilles tendon.

I was ordered to put on an ankle guard with paddings so as to soften the impact on my heel when I walk. So my right ankle looks like one big bak zhang (rice dumpling) now.


Not that I am complaining though.

At the time of writing, it has already been a week since I have put it on and my heel is definitely less painful now. Hopefully, the pain will be all gone by the time I go back for a review.


Despite having sports in the name of the clinic, OrthoSports does not treat ailments limited to only sports people. In fact, with the 3 Orthopaedic Surgeons each having an area of specialisation, OrthoSports also cater to senior folks who are facing orthopaedic problems as well as injuries faced by people like you and me.

Looks like I am in good hands then!

UPDATE: My heel has completely recovered! WOOT!


Useful Information

OrthoSports
Address:
38 Irrawaddy Road, #10-41 Mt. Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, Singapore 329563
AND
1 Farrer Park Station Road, #15-17 Connexion, Singapore 217562
Tel: 67348168 / 68912288
Website: www.orthosports.com.sg
Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/orthosports.sg

Viewing all 1296 articles
Browse latest View live