Year-end school holiday activities guide

Get up close with Xing Xing and Liang Liang, the giant pandas at Zoo Negara or witness diverse marine life at the sprawling Aquaria KLCC. If your kids prefer winged creatures, head to the KL Bird Park and the KL Butterfly Park. 

Just because school’s out doesn’t mean the kids should stop learning. KL has many museums – the National Museum, National Visual Arts Gallery or the more contemporary Islamic Arts Museum and Bank Negara Museum. Alternatively, join the kids’ tours at ILHAM Gallery.

Often overlooked in this digital age, libraries are a treasure trove of information. Head to the National Library, which is the first library to be equipped with a Samsung SMART library, to borrow a book or just hang out in silence. You can borrow also books and toys from the Petaling Jaya Community Library.

Pack your picnic basket and head to your favourite park. We like the Perdana Botanical Garden for its space, KLCC Park for the water park and the TTDI Park for the great little stream that runs through it.

Take advantage of the new MRT line and visit places of interests such as the Batu Caves, walk the canopy of the KL Forest Eco Park, shop for local craft at Central Market and have dinner at Jalan Alor. Of course, a family photo in front of Petronas Twin Towers is a must.

Teach kids the importance of volunteering by bringing them to PAWS or the SPCA to help out with the animals and find out what really happens at these places. Not only will this impart valuable lessons to kids, it’s also a good way to spend time with the family.

Do something different this holiday and sign the kids up for pony / horse riding lessons and camp. Equestrian clubs like Bukit Kiara Equestrian & Country Resort, Denai Alam Recreational and Riding Club, Selangor Turf Club and Riders Lodge offer a programmes to suit all ages and levels.

Contact centres for riding school packages.

This is something everyone should try at least once and Camp 5 is a brilliant place to start. Enrol the kids in the Try Climbing Session for beginners and join them if you dare. There’s no age restriction but parents must be present when children under 18 register for the first time.

Brave the holiday crowds and ride the towering slides and Lazy River at Sunway Lagoon. Book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

If your kid fancies himself the next Julian Yee, head to Sunway Pyramid’s skating rink and sign up for an introductory course lasting three days.

RM170 for six lessons.