SCHOOL holidays can be a wonderful time for the family, or it can easily turn into a nightmare. For families who’ve planned smartly for it, the next one and a half months will be a memorable one. But for those who’ve not really put much thought into what they’re going to do, the holidays might just be something they’d rather forget.
So how can we turn the holidays into something memorable? Here’s a list of some fabulous activities you can do as a family.
GO ON A VACATION
This would be ideal if you have the money and time. It is the perfect opportunity to get away from it all. Congratulations if you’ve booked the place and are already soaking in the sun right now. But for those who’ve yet to book, there’s still time. I highly recommend you to search online for some really super last-minute hotel deals.
I’ve personally used them many times without problems. You can even accumulate points for future vacations. And the best part? The hotel rates are even cheaper than advance booking! Try it for yourself.
PICNIC
If you can’t go on a vacation, how about a picnic? Choose a spot — the beach, park, or jungle park. Think of Port Dickson, Forest Reserve Institute Malaysia (FRIM), Templer Park or Sungai Congkak, to name a few. Prepare some simple food in the morning and be there by lunch time. For maximum fun, organise a group picnic with other families and/or friends.
WEEKEND FAMILY ACTIVITY
This is the time to visit the many attractions we may not have visited in a long time. Think Zoo Negara, National Museum, Kuala Lumpur Bird Park, KL Tower, Science Centre, Putrajaya or Bukit Cahaya. Try the many activities they have there. When in Putrajaya or Bukit Cahaya, why not rent a bike and enjoy the fresh air?
DAY TRIP
Find a unique and interesting place that you can drive to and fro within a day.
I can think of a few — Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary, Bagan Lalang beach, Kuala Selangor Firefly Colonies, and Port Dickson. Just go there with no agenda, enjoy the scenery, food and the change of environment.
CAMPING
For the more adventurous, bring along your camping gear. This is the best time to be at one with nature. Up the fun factor by getting other folks to join you. Have a campfire, games, singing and dancing. Bring along some food for a barbecue on the beach or in the jungle.
Among the more popular camping sites are Sungai Congkak, Frim, Bagan Lalang and Port Dickson.
So there you have it. Some ideas to keep you and the children occupied for now. I’ll be back next week with more interesting ideas you can try together.
In the meantime, I wish you a happy and productive school holidays!
Zaid Mohamad coaches and trains parents to experience happier homes and more productive workplaces. Reach him at zaid@smartparents.com.my