Things to do with expat kids in Bangkok

[OldSiam]

Word to your mother, this week’s blog is all about top tips for things to do with tots, toddlers, kids and teens in Bangkok.

Moving house is exciting and wonderful but also incredibly stressful; moving your home to a whole other city, in a completely different country amplifies those things infinitely. In much the same way, being a parent is one of the greatest joys on earth, but we know it’s also very VERY hard work. So, to show our appreciation, and in the hope we can make things a bit easier for the supermums and dads out there, we’ve tracked down some of the best activities, outings, classes and clubs in Bangkok.

Outings

At first glance it can seem like Bangkok is a playground better equipped for grown ups, but that’s not to say there aren’t lots of great activities for youngsters too.

Your little princess Elsa or Jack the lad Frost will feel right at home frolicking around Snow Town on the top floor of Gateway mall in Ekamai. There’s real snow falling from the roof and crunching underfoot; you can learn the basics of skiing, do some arts and crafts and take part in some mass snowball fights.

There’s nothing like the great outdoors for inspiring some quality family time (and tiring out tenacious tots). Bangkok’s parks make for a great day out with lots of fun things to do including going on a nature trail in search of the giant monitor lizards at Lumphini park, clambering on the climbing frames at Benjasiri and sailing on the boating lake at Chatuchak. Plunge properly into nature with a day out at Bang Krachao, known as Bangkok’s Green Lung. Take a boat from Klontoey pier, hire some bikes and spend the day exploring the suspended walkways in this massive expanse of unspoilt forest, right in the city.

Older kids developing a keen appreciation for some good grub might enjoy a food tour and A Taste of Thailand is one of the best in town. Fun, informal and kid-friendly, it includes tastes of traditional Thai dishes and drinks all over the Bangrak area and they also throw in some fascinating history and culture, not to mention a discount for kids under 13.

Classes

Whatever their talent, skill or interest, Bangkok is sure to have something to keep your bright spark occupied.

The Paron School of Art offers a range of fun, engaging classes in various visual art disciplines for a wide age range. From sketching and painting to photography and sculpture, your kids can get messy, develop their artistic skills and build confidence and creativity.

Meanwhile, at the Kids Robotics Learning Center, youngsters can explore science, technology, engineering and maths in fun, hands-on classes, in which they build, program, and test robots.

For more active kids who need physical activities, check out the ninja kids classes at Asia Parkour, where they can build strength, agility and coordination as well as social skills, teamwork and physical and mental confidence.

Communities

Being a parent is fraught with questions, trials and tribulations. Sometimes you need answers or recommendations, sometimes you just need someone to talk to, who’s going through the same thing. It’s so important to build a network and be part of a parenting community wherever you live. Bangkok has some great online resources and platforms for chat and discussion. Some of the most engaging Facebook groups are Expat Moms in Bangkok, The Mummy Club Bangkok and BKK Kids. Join up and have a good chin wag.