Parents’ Top Picks: 10 Last-Minute National Day T-Shirts for SG61
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Fun Things to Do This National Day SG61 Long Weekend 2026
Singapore turns 61 this year and parents have an extra day to celebrate!National Day falls on Sunday, 9 August 2026, making Monday, 10 August a public holiday for many families. That gives us a three-day weekend from 8 to 10 August to fill with family time, outdoor adventures, hands-on learning and plenty of red-and-white fun. This year’s National Day theme is “Majulah Singapura, Go Beyond!”, with the parade returning to the National Stadium after a decade. But you do not need an NDP ticket to join the celebrations.From free museum programmes and science experiments to water play, wildlife, neighbourhood carnivals and a lesser-known Mr. Merlion pop-up, these are the Flying Cape team’s top parent picks for the SG61 long weekend.1. National Day Celebrations at the National Museum: Best Overall Family PickIf you want one destination with activities for different ages, the National Museum of Singapore is our top pick.The celebrations begin with the museum’s inaugural Inclusive Family Day on 8 August, featuring accessible performances, community singing, batik painting and activities inspired by Singapore’s myths and traditions.On 9 August, families can enjoy free gallery admission, a heritage hunt, craft activities, a photo booth and live performances. BEAT’ABOX and Jack & Rai will perform on the Front Lawn from 4.50pm, followed by a live NDP telecast on the museum’s giant outdoor screen from 5.30pm to 8.30pm.Stay after sunset for Voyage of Icons, a projection-mapping show that transforms the museum façade with colourful interpretations of Singapore folklore. It runs nightly from 1 to 12 August.When: 8 and 9 August 2026; projection mapping until 12 AugustWhere: National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford RoadPrice: Most activities and the NDP screening are free; selected programmes require registration or paymentWhy parents will love it: It combines air-conditioned galleries, hands-on activities, performances and an outdoor parade screening in one location.Parent tip: Bring a picnic mat, snacks and a poncho if you plan to stay for the screening. Explore the full National Museum SG61 programme.Image Credit: Science Centre Singapore2. SG Science Fest at Science Centre Singapore: Best Rainy-Day PickTurn the long weekend into a hands-on learning adventure at SG Science Fest.From 8 to 10 August, Science Centre Singapore will be filled with interactive experiments, demonstrations and science activities suitable for different ages. The festival runs from 10am to 6pm daily.Admission to SG Science Fest is complimentary for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents, although advance booking is strongly recommended. Separate charges or reservations may apply to selected attractions and activities.When: 8 to 10 August 2026, 10am to 6pmWhere: Science Centre SingaporePrice: Free festival admission for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents; standard rates apply to other visitorsWhy parents will love it: It is educational without feeling like school and it gives families a reliable indoor option if the weather turns wet or unbearably hot.Parent tip: Reserve your admission before travelling down. Check the latest programme on the official SG Science Fest page.3. Street Eats and NDP Screening at Singapore Flyer: Best Easy Evening OutFor families who want festive atmosphere without committing to an entire day, head to the Singapore Flyer precinct.Street Eats Under the Stars returns to the Waterfront Promenade from 5 to 10 August, with local food, live music and Marina Bay views from 3pm to 10pm daily. Entry to the night market is free.On 9 August, the Greek Theatre will host a complimentary live screening of the National Day Parade, beginning with the pre-show at 5.30pm.Families who want to add a ride can look out for the SG61 Buddy Deal, offering two Singapore Flyer tickets for S$61 to Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents during August.When: Street Eats from 5 to 10 August; NDP screening on 9 August from 5.30pmWhere: Singapore Flyer Waterfront Promenade and Greek TheatrePrice: Free admission to the night market and screening; Flyer rides are ticketedWhy parents will love it: You can arrive for an early dinner, enjoy the waterfront and catch the parade without having to queue for a stadium seat.Parent tip: Go before 4.30pm if you want time to buy dinner and find a comfortable screening spot. See the latest Singapore Flyer happenings.Image Credit: Changi Airport4. Celebrate SG61 at Changi Airport and Jewel: Best All-Weather PickChangi Airport and Jewel have one of the most varied SG61 programmes—and almost everything is sheltered.Families can admire National Day horticultural displays across Terminals 1 to 4, watch the Home Light & Music Showcase at the Jewel Rain Vortex and join selected family activities and mascot appearances.From 7 to 10 August, look out for SG61 activities and a limited 1-for-1 promotion on individual Jewel Canopy Park attraction tickets. Selected experiences, including a Peranakan heritage programme, are also available at an additional charge.When: Various dates throughout July and August; selected offers from 7 to 10 AugustWhere: Changi Airport Terminals 1 to 4 and JewelPrice: Free and ticketed activities availableWhy parents will love it: It is stroller-friendly, air-conditioned and easy to customise around naps, meals and children with different interests.Parent tip: Check the individual activity conditions before visiting, as some redemptions require minimum spending. Find the full lineup on the official Changi Airport National Day page.5. ActiveSG Celebrates: Best for Children Who Need to MoveIf your children would rather run than watch a performance, ActiveSG Celebrates is the answer.On 8 August, five sport centres will host National Day-themed sports try-outs, fitness sessions, family games, wellness stations and adventure challenges.Morning carnivals will be held at Woodlands, Jurong East, Hougang and Heartbeat@Bedok from 8am to 1pm. Queenstown Sport Centre will hold its celebration from 4pm to 9pm.The event page also lists free all-day pool and gym access, while carnival registration costs S$5 per person and can be paid using ActiveSG Credits.When: 8 August 2026Where: Five participating ActiveSG sport centresPrice: S$5 per registered participant; terms apply to complimentary facilities and giveawaysWhy parents will love it: Children can burn off energy while trying activities they may not encounter during a normal weekend.Parent tip: Each sport centre has a different programme, so pick your location before registering. Details are available on the ActiveSG Celebrates website.6. Wild Wild Wet Birthday Splash Fest: Best Water-Play TreatSingapore’s birthday is not the only one being celebrated in August. Wild Wild Wet is also marking its 22nd anniversary with a month-long Birthday Splash Fest.August babies can enjoy complimentary admission, subject to daily limits and online booking. Promotional passes are also available for other visitors, together with weekend balloons and selected merchandise offers while stocks last.For the National Day weekend, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays are treated as peak days. The complimentary birthday allocation is limited, so parents should not rely on walk-in availability.When: 1 to 31 August 2026Where: Wild Wild Wet, Downtown EastPrice: Ticketed; promotional passes available, with capped complimentary admission for August babiesWhy parents will love it: It feels like a proper holiday activity without leaving Singapore.Parent tip: Book online and arrive early if you are using the August birthday promotion. Check the current campaign on the Wild Wild Wet website.7. National Orchid Garden and Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden: Best Nature DayNational Day is a good opportunity to introduce children to Singapore’s national flower.On 9 August, the National Orchid Garden will offer free admission to eligible local residents and pass holders, including Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents, Work Permit holders, local students and Dependant Pass holders. Identification or supporting documents are required.The promotion runs from 8.30am to 7pm, with last admission at 6pm.Families with younger children can extend the outing at the free Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, where children aged two to 12 can enjoy nature play and a 500-square-metre water-play area.When: National Orchid Garden promotion on 9 August 2026Where: Singapore Botanic GardensPrice: Free under the promotion for eligible visitors; Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden is freeWhy parents will love it: It is meaningful, affordable and gives children space to explore away from shopping centres.Parent tip: Start early, bring drinking water and pack a change of clothes for water play. Check the NParks event calendar and Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden information before visiting.8. Light Together Bras Basah.Bugis: Best Lesser-Known Night AdventureThis new after-dark experience is one of our favourite less-common SG61 picks.Light Together Bras Basah.Bugis transforms historic buildings and hidden spaces into illuminated experiences inspired by Singapore’s folklore and superstitions.The free trail covers five locations: Artspace at Waterloo Centre, the Reflection Pool beside Bras Basah MRT, Stamford Place, Stamford Walkway and the National Museum.Children can look out for oversized glowing chillies, mythical animals, interactive trees and animated interpretations of familiar Singapore stories.When: 1 August to 5 September 2026, from 7.30pmWhere: Bras Basah.Bugis precinctPrice: FreeWhy parents will love it: It turns local history into an imaginative night walk and will appeal especially to older children who have outgrown simple craft stations.Parent tip: Allow 60 to 90 minutes for a comfortable walk and wear proper shoes. Explore the installations through HeritageSG’s Bras Basah.Bugis guide.9. Gardens by the Bay: Best Mix of Free and Ticketed FunFamilies can build their own National Day itinerary at Gardens by the Bay.The ticketed Flower Dome hosts Orchid Extravaganza until 10 August, making the final day of the long weekend your last opportunity to catch the display.Outside, the free National Day edition of Garden Rhapsody—Songs of Singapore—runs throughout August at 7.45pm and 8.45pm. The free Borealis light-and-mist experience is also scheduled at Supertree Grove on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays.When: Throughout the long weekend; Orchid Extravaganza ends 10 AugustWhere: Gardens by the BayPrice: Garden Rhapsody and Borealis are free; Flower Dome admission appliesWhy parents will love it: You can choose a simple free evening or turn it into a full attraction day.Parent tip: Visit the Flower Dome in the late afternoon, have dinner and stay for the evening shows. Check the Gardens by the Bay event calendar before travelling.Image Credit: Mandai Wildlife Reserve 10. A Wild National Day at Mandai: Best for Animal LoversMandai is giving animal-loving families an unusual way to celebrate.A complimentary NDP watch party will take place outside the Singapore Zoo entrance at Mandai Wildlife EAST on 9 August from 5.30pm to 8.30pm.Inside Night Safari, visitors can also discover Singapore’s nocturnal neighbours including the Sunda pangolin and common palm civet at the Pangolin & Pals Discovery Booth on 8 and 9 August from 7.15pm to 10pm. Regular Night Safari admission is required for the booth.When: 8 and 9 August 2026Where: Mandai Wildlife ReservePrice: Park admission applies to Night Safari activitiesWhy parents will love it: It adds a distinctly Singapore wildlife angle to the usual National Day celebrations.Parent tip: Public transport or Mandai’s shuttle service is strongly recommended over the long weekend. See the latest Mandai events and visitor advisories.11. Celebrate in Your Own Neighbourhood: Best Low-Stress PickSome of the most enjoyable National Day celebrations may be the ones closest to home.The People’s Association has published an islandwide programme of community carnivals, performances, walks, arts activities and live screenings.Long-weekend options include:Tampines Central National Day Celebrations and PAssionArts Festival at Our Tampines Hub on 8 AugustQueenstown National Day Carnival on 8 AugustCanberra PAssionArts and National Day Carnival beside Sun Plaza on 8 AugustNDP live screenings at Sembawang and Punggol on 9 AugustKaki Bukit National Day Carnival on the morning of 10 AugustWhen: Various dates from 8 to 10 AugustWhere: Community clubs and neighbourhood venues islandwidePrice: Varies; some events require registration or ticketsWhy parents will love it: Less travelling, familiar surroundings and a better chance of bumping into school friends and neighbours.Parent tip: Do not assume every community event accepts walk-ins. Search by district and check registration details on the official People’s Association National Day events page.12. Mr. Merlion & Friends Hawker Fest: Best Quirky Pop-UpFor something different from the usual fireworks and concerts, visit the Mr. Merlion & Friends Hawker Fest at WEAVE, Resorts World Sentosa.The Singapore-themed pop-up recreates a playful hawker-inspired setting with Mr. Merlion characters, photo opportunities, collectables and scheduled live experiences.The pop-up runs until 23 August, with special live sessions announced for 9 and 10 August from 12pm to 4pm and 5pm to 9pm.When: 30 July to 23 August 2026Where: WEAVE, Resorts World SentosaPrice: Free admission; purchases and selected activities cost extraWhy parents will love it: It is cheerful, very Singaporean and still uncommon enough to feel like a discovery.Parent tip: Treat this as a short stop rather than a full-day attraction. Pair it with a Sentosa outing, meal or visit to the new Singapore Oceanarium. Check the latest schedule on the Mr. Merlion official Instagram page.Flying Cape’s Suggested Three-Day Family PlanIf the number of choices feels overwhelming, keep it simple.Spend Saturday getting active at an ActiveSG carnival or exploring SG Science Fest. Make Sunday your main celebration day at the National Museum, Singapore Flyer or a neighbourhood screening.Save Monday for a slower nature outing, water play or a relaxed visit to Gardens by the Bay.The best National Day plan is not necessarily the biggest one. For many children, one memorable activity, a favourite local meal and time with their parents will mean more than rushing between five crowded venues.Whichever option you choose, wear something red or white, pack water and sun protection, and use public transport where possible. Popular screenings and complimentary activities may reach capacity, while promotional items are usually available only while stocks last.
Navigating Screen Time for Your Child: How to Balance Learning and Leisure
Striving to ensure your child embraces 21st-century technology while maintaining a healthy balance with screen time? In today's world, managing screen time for children is a pivotal challenge for parents. With technological advancements permeating every aspect of our lives, screens offer both educational opportunities and avenues for recreational activities. However, finding the right equilibrium between learning and leisure is essential for a child's healthy development.Age-Specific RecommendationsFirstly, let's look at the Ministry of Health guidance on screen use in children.1.Children Under 18 Months: Zero Screen TimeThe Singapore government emphasizes that children under 18 months old should avoid screen time altogether. This crucial period is characterized by rapid brain development, and interactions with caregivers play a pivotal role in nurturing foundational skills such as language acquisition, motor skills, and emotional development. Avoid your child using screens at all at this age, except for video calls with friends and family.2.Toddlers and Young Children (18 months to 6 years): Limited to One Hour Per DayFor children in the age range of 18 months to 6 years, the recommended screen time is limited to one hour per day. During this developmental stage, children are highly receptive to learning through interactive and engaging activities. While carefully curated and age-appropriate content can support their educational journey, excessive screen exposure may impede their social interactions and imaginative play, essential for holistic growth.3.School-Aged Children (7 to 12 years): A Reasonable AmountAs children progress into the age bracket of 7 to 12 years old, MOH suggests allowing a reasonable amount of screen time guided by a timetable to separate recreational screen time from screen activities that foster learning and development. At this stage, school-aged children are more capable of discerning between various digital contents and may benefit from technology for educational purposes. However, parental monitoring remains crucial to ensure a healthy balance between online activities and other developmental aspects such as physical exercise, social interactions, and creative pursuits.It's important to remember that this is just guidance provided by the government. Every child is unique and approaches should differ between children based on their unique abilities and personalities, and parents should assess screen time usage for their own children.Strategies for Balancing Learning and Leisure Screen TimeScreens are unavoidable in the 21st century. From mobile phones to TVs, children will unavoidably use screens at various points, and these can be great learning and entertainment tools. Here are some strategies parents can use to balance childrens' use of screen time between education and play:Set Clear BoundariesEstablishing clear and consistent rules regarding screen time is crucial. Communicate these guidelines effectively to your child, explaining the importance of a balanced approach to technology usage.Prioritize Quality ContentEmphasize high-quality, educational content when allowing screen time. Choose interactive programs or apps that encourage critical thinking, creativity, and skill development.Engage TogetherCo-viewing or engaging in interactive activities with your child fosters bonding and allows you to guide and discuss content, enhancing their learning experience.Encourage Alternative ActivitiesEncourage and facilitate various non-screen activities like outdoor play, reading, hobbies, and family time to diversify your child's experiences and interests.Model Healthy BehaviorBe a positive role model by demonstrating balanced screen habits yourself. Children often imitate parental behavior, so showcase responsible screen usage.What Constitutes Educational Screen Time?To achieve a balanced approach to screen time, consider exploring educational activities or classes that utilize screens as a tool for learning:Online Educational Platforms:Platforms offering interactive lessons in subjects like mathematics, language arts, science, and coding can be engaging and educational for children, for example Walnut CodingLanguage Learning Apps:Apps designed for language acquisition often employ gamification techniques, making learning enjoyable for kids while broadening their linguistic skills, for example KidStartNowVirtual Art or Music Classes:Screen-based art or music classes provide opportunities for creative expression and skill development through guided lessons and tutorials, for example Tree ArtSTEM-based Programs:Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs utilize screens to teach concepts, conduct experiments virtually, and foster problem-solving skills for example ICanCode AsiaEducational Gaming:Some games are specifically designed to be educational, teaching various subjects or skills while entertaining children.Finding the Balance for Your Child:It's important to note that the information provided here is just guidance. There are no specific rules about what you must and must not do with regards to screen time for your child, but for their best development it's important to find a balance between using screens for recreational use and using them for educational purposes.This balance will certainly shift depending on the age of the child and their natural affinity towards different learning styles. There are lots of ways to use screens for educational purposes for children, including online educational platforms, language learning, STEM-based programs, and virtual art and music classes.This article was brought to you by Walnut Coding.
KiasuParents chooses Flying Cape as exclusive platform partner
We have great news for you!Flying Cape is very pleased to share that we have been selected as KiasuParents’ exclusive platform partner for the booking of tuition and enrichment classes. Bing selected by an authoritative voice in education like KiasuParents is indeed a huge affirmation for us. “We love the vision, energy and professionalism of the Flying Cape team. There are quite a few online marketplaces sprouting up these days, but what distinguishes Flying Cape is their deep belief that every child is uniquely smart and their commitment to working with a broad range of experts to deliver personalized solutions for each child. We look forward to introducing Flying Cape to the parents on our website, and trust that they will benefit much from the one-stop recommendations and booking services provided by Flying Cape.”William Toh, founder of KiasuParentsWhat this means to our dear Flying Cape Community:A stronger team working on the Flying Cape platformThe KiasuParents team bring with them decades of experience in IT, Marketing, data analytics and parenting tips. We are excited to be able to collaborate closely to bring to you better and smarter recommendations for your children’s classes really soon!A wider KiasuParent-Flying Cape community to belong toLook out for more activities, special promotions and many other goodies coming your way! We’ve got your back, and your children’s too. About KiasuParentsKiasuParents.com is Singapore’s largest community of parents of school-going children. Since 2007, Kiasuparents has been part of many Singaporean parents’ journey as they guide their children from preschool through to junior college. The site is also a key source of information for educators and regulators who are looking for feedback on education policies in Singapore.