Make learning fun: Educational activities for kids in Cape Town

Worried your kids aren’t getting enough stimulation at home? Here are some Cape Town spots to check out with them before the schools reopen.

Many parents are probably tearing their hair out by now as to what to do with bored children stuck at home all day. If you live in the Cape Town area, here are some places where children can have fun while also learning interesting things.

FIND NEMO AT THE TWO OCEANS AQUARIUM

Home to more than 3,000 sea animals, the aquarium is a beloved outing for Capetonians. Explore marine exhibits on both floors, among them the I&J Ocean Exhibit, or waddle over to the penguin exhibit which is home to a colony of African penguins.

Or take the kids to see to the shark exhibit, where they’ll meet a ragged-tooth shark up close. The feeding shows are unfortunately suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic. They can also view sea life under a microscope and get a bite to eat after working up an appetite.

Cost: Adults R200 (R150 after 15:00); South African students, pensioners and children aged 14 to 17 R150 (R115 after 15:00); children aged four to 13 R95 (R75 after 15:00); children under four enter for free all day

Book online at: www.aquarium.co.za/shop/

LEARN ABOUT WETLANDS AT INTAKA ISLAND

This wetlands and bird sanctuary based at Century City offers a hub of educational activities. The island has 212 indigenous plant species and 120 species of birds ready to be identified by visitors.

Stroll along the self-guided trail and take in the beauty of your surroundings, including the nine stations where the kids can read up on different information regarding the habitants. Afterwards, hop on one of the ferries for a 35-minute boat ride to admire the wetlands and Table Mountain peeking through the cityscape.

There are two bird hides where kids can spot the more “camera shy” birds or the water mongoose. They’ll also learn more about medicinal plants at the indigenous garden with its educational sign posts.

Cost: Adults R25 (R75 with a boat ride); pensioners and children under 12 R15 (R65 with a boat ride)

More info: www.intaka.co.za

LEARN THE ART OF PAINTERTAINMENT AT ART JAMMING

Kids can put their aprons on and express their individuality through artwork. The entry fee includes an apron, A3 canvas and use of all the materials (including 45 different colours) needed to create their own masterpiece.

It’s a great activity for the whole family to enjoy and the studios are following strict COVID-19 protocols. It is advised that you make a booking before the time to ensure there is space available.

Cost: R160
Locations: V&A Waterfront (above Toy Kingdom), Willowbridge Shopping Centre, Somerset West (1 Bright Street)
More info: www.artjamming.co.za

HOP ON AND OFF WITH THE CITY SIGHTSEEING BUS TOUR

Kids can learn about the Mother City with commentary while taking in the natural beauty of Cape Town. There are three routes to choose from with a total of 30 places of interest to stop at.

Landmarks they will see depending on the route chosen include Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch, the Constantia Wine Route, Lions Head, Devil’s Peak, the Cape Town Stadium and others. They can learn about Cape Malay history and view the vibrant houses of the Bo-Kaap through a free 90-minute daily walking tour offered by the tour company.

Cost (online booking) for once-day Classic tickets for South Africans: Family ticket R490; Adult R199; Child R100

Book online here

For the free walking tour click here

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