9 August marks National Day, a day when we commemorate Singapore’s independence as a sovereign nation. Here are a few activities you can do with your child on this special day!

 

You can use this time to teach them the reason why people display Singapore flags during National Day.

 

  1. Catch the fireworks without squeezing with the crowd

Braving through a sticky, sweaty crowd is not exactly the smartest thing to do when you have little children. The hotspots that fill up early include the Merlion Park, Esplanade and waterfront at Marina Bay Sands.

 

If you’re not planning to secure a hotel room with a prime spot overlooking the floating platform, there are places with high vantage points which provide a full view of the fireworks.

HDB buildings like Blk 79B at Toa Payoh Central, Skyville @ Dawson, Pinnacle @ Duxton and McNair Gardens have sky gardens on the upper floors for you and your family to experience the full sights and sounds of the fireworks display. Go equipped with battery-operated fans, drinks and a tablet to watch the parade live and immerse in the celebratory mood.

 

 

Singapore’s beautiful skyline looks stunning at night – soak in the beauty with your children during the national day weekend.

 

  1. Attend themed celebrations

Pororo Park Singapore and Kidzland are but two of the local indoor playgrounds for children which have special programmes lined up for National Day 2018.

Activities are curated for children to learn more about Singapore’s history and culture and have fun while doing so. Preschools, primary schools and secondary schools typically have National Day Celebrations prior to National Day as well.

 

  1. Explore the lesser known parts of Singapore

There is much more to Singapore than Marina Bay Sands, Chinatown and Little India. Little Guilin lake is a nature park located in Bukit Gombak created from a natural granite quarry which provides serenity amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

If you’re up for some exercise, take a treetop walk with your children. There are several trails along MacRitchie Reservoir from which you can start your hike. Come prepared with a trusty pair of running shoes, large water bottle and a towel to wipe off perspiration. Don’t forget that bottle of insect repellent to fend off pesky mosquitoes! There is much greenery and local fauna to observe.

 

It’s an apt time to teach your children more about Singapore’s history and culture.

 

  1. Explore Kranji Countryside

Kranji Countryside boasts a host of local farms. There’s a goat farm where you can watch goats being milked and purchase goat’s milk, frog farm, ornamental fish farms and vegetable farms. Patronise local businesses to support our local economy and reduce carbon footprint.

It will be more convenient to drive in to explore this side of the country as it is quite a walk from the nearest bus stop.

 

  1. Learn about what makes Singapore

Singapore is home to many different cultures from all over the world. Other than Chinatown, Kampong Glam and Little India, consider exploring expat hangouts where other nationalities gather.

 

You will be able to find restaurants and stores catered for Koreans in Tanjong Pagar, Filipinos in Lucky Plaza, Japanese in Liang Court and the Caucasians in Dempsey where you can experience dishes and products unique to each community.

With so many ways to celebrate National Day apart of catching the parade LIVE on television, how will you be spending it with your children? Let us know in the comments!