Is Singapore Child Friendly?

If you are doing research and wondering if Singapore is child-friendly at all, worry not. Here’s the lowdown. Singapore is very child-friendly compared to the rest of Asia. Most restaurants (especially the newer establishments) are equipped with baby chairs and often provide plastic bowls and utensils. More importantly, service staff usually have a nice thing or two to say to your little one who has tipped the bowl over one too many times. Most malls have moderately clean and fresh smelling changing and nursing rooms.

While Singapore is a popular destination for foodies and also a reputation for attracting shoppers and sun worshippers, perhaps less is known about what a fantastic giant playground the entire island of Singapore really is.

Young Ones (1 to 7 years old)

If the thought of leaving your kids at home for this trip has crossed your mind, think again. There’s so much to do especially for the toddlers.

1. BUTTERFLY PARK & INSECT KINGDOM is an educational must-do. We feel it is well curated or maybe we just got lucky with a really super guide who not only knew his stuff but was very entertaining to the kids. There is nothing quite like seeing your kids handle insects and butterfly species they have only seen or read about in books. Witnessing that moment of trepidation, discovery and awe – priceless.

2. Water fun at several malls. One of those understated activities, but once you see your little ones run through the spouts of water and thrilled by moving water, you’ll be so happy you brought them here. The Star Vista, Bugis Junction, Clarke Quay are three of several spotted around Singapore. But we pick these because of their convenient location and abundant shopping and food options around. Don’t forget to bring your camera and dry clothes for change.

3. Lose yourselves at RWS SEA Aquarium where you observe the tranquility of 2,500 marine animals like sharks, rays, jellyfish, turtles in a giant ocenarium. This is a quality attraction and I personally know many locals buying the annual pass that allows unlimited visits. You can’t say the same for other attractions. A definite jaw-dropping experience for you and your little ones.

Older Kids (8 & above)

4. WILD WILD WET is a water theme park that has thrilling 18 metre drops called the Torpedo going at speeds of 70km/hr to gentler family fun rides for younger kids.

5. If your young one has loads of energy to expand and is a fearless daredevil, bring them down to FOREST ADVENTURE, a series of challenging obstacles and giant zip lines across trees and bridges and forest terrain. This is at Bedok Reservoir Park on the eastern park of the island.

6. For more outdoorsy activities, try kayaking on the calm waters of Singapore. There are many locations like nearby Bedok Reservoir perfect if your kids are not knackered from Forest Adventure. Other locations include MacRitchie Reservoir, Kallang, Jurong Lake, or even further out at Pulau Ubin, kayaking in the natural beauty of mangrove swamps.

7. If you’re a snowboarder and have always wanted to try its water version, book a boat at Punggol Marina and head out for wake boarding or riding. Go in the early mornings at 7 a.m. or in the evenings to avoid the intense afternoon sun.

8. Attaching yourself to a zipline or flying fox and zipping over 450 metres from a height of 70 metres, the MEGAZIP is an exhilarating ride over lush jungle canopy onto Silosa Beach. Young ones can be strapped with an adult as long as the combined weight is within the safety threshold.

9. Also on Sentosa and rather close by is the SKYLINE LUGE. This is a big big hit with kids so be prepared to get your younger kids to agree to going only once or twice if you’re pressed for time. Somewhat like a go-cart zooming down a slight downhill trail, the luge will be more fun for the younger kids as teens may get bored.

10. iFly SINGAPORE is indoor skydiving via a wind tunnel. For your fearless young ones, this will be an experience they will never forget.