Stuck for things to do this December holidays?

School’s out: Keep your kids busy this summer with these amazing summer activities in and around Cape Town

Last Updated: 12 December 2016

Kids from around Western Cape stow away their pens for four weeks of uninterrupted summer school holiday down time from 7 December until 11 January 2017. Now parents before you start to tug your hair in frustration, why not plan some great activities to help your little bunnies spend some of that boundless energy.

So take a deep breath, collect your thoughts and have a look at our overview of school holiday programmes, events and more to keep your little ones, tweens, teens and even toddlers busy as precious little bumblebees. What follows is a guide to the Mother City’s coolest kiddie-centric activities, from adventure and sport to-dos to creative clubs and educational trips. 

2016 SCHOOL HOLIDAY IDEAS IN AND AROUND CAPE TOWN 

EDRO Robotics Holiday Workshops (8 - 16 December)
Keep your kids busy these school holidays with an incredible course that teaches them the fundamentals of science, maths, computer programming and coding, while letting them be creative and innovative at the same time. The EDRO (Education Robots) Robotics Holiday Workshops are educational and practical – allowing them to build their own robots that will be able to perform basic tasks such as drawing, escaping mazes and tracking the surroundings. The workshops are two days long and take place at the Woodstock Exchange from 9am to 1pm. Robotics 101 for Juniors is aimed at children between 9 and 12-years-old, while Robotics 101 for Teens is for kids aged between 13 and 16-years-old.

Bookings can be made online via Quicket.co.za and spaces are limited so bag a spot soon. Visit Edro.co.za for more information.

Cricket Warriors
Join the Cricket Warriors this summer for a week of quality cricket coaching! They are inviting all Primary School Cricketers to make their way to the Bergvliet Cricket Club, in Bergvliet (Cape Town), for some intensive training. The Cricket Warriors are returning in January 2017 for a holiday cricket coaching clinic before the end of the holidays, to make sure that all mini Kagiso Rabadas’, Shaun Pollocks’ and AB de Villiers’ are in tip-top shape, come opening of  schools 2017 cricket season! Dates for the clinic are between Saturday, 3 January 2017, and Tuesday, 6 January 2017 – from 9am to 12pm. This opportunity is available at R450p/p for juniors (aged 5-8 years-old) and R550p/p for seniors (9-13 years-old). It also costs R200p/p per individual day spent at the clinic.
Note: As spaces are limited, parents/guardians are urged to book their son/daughter's’ spots ASAP. Email cricketwarriorscoaching@gmail.com to secure their positions.

For more information on this experience phone or email Andrew Howitt – cricketwarriorscoaching@gmail.com or +27 (0)78 120 0099.

Battlefield Live SA (December)                                         Need to get rid of some of that extra youthful energy that’s now buzzing around the house? Why not bundle up your kids and head out for an adrenaline-pumping day of outdoor laser tag with Battlefield Live SA, come rain or shine. The high-tech military simulation game features all the action of a paintball adventure sans the unsightly bruises and welts. The experience will not only have your kiddies zooming around the combat zone, but it’s also a great way to get them off the couch and working in a team. Depending on the package, participants can look forward to two hours of gaming, vests, camo paint, up to five different scenarios, state-of-the-art equipment and so much more. Do note that parties and events do not run on a daily basis and must be booked in advance. Group bookings require a minimum of 14 participants; otherwise, call to see if it’s possible to join another group. 

For more information, contact +27 (0)84 364 9979 rena@battlefieldlive.co.za.

School Holiday Fun at Ratanga Junction  
Billed as the wildest place in Africa, the Mother City’s ever-popular Century City theme park  opens for a five week long jol from Monday, 2 December until Tuesday, 10 January 2017. The fun park caters to all ages with more than 30 attractions, from exciting kiddies’ rides to thrilling adrenaline-inducing roller coasters. Join the adventure seekers in the queues or catch one of the snake or bird shows. No matter how you choose to spend your time, Ratanga Junction is sure to provide a fun-filled experience during the summer school holiday period.

For more information, contact +27 (0)21 550 8504, info@ratanga.co.za or visit Ratanga.co.za.

Sunset Special at the Table Mountain Cableway
This summer, Table Mountain Cableway is making sure you and the littles enjoy the wonderful African sunset from the top of one of the world’s addition to the list of New7Wonders Of Nature. From the 1st of November to 18 December 2016, and from 4 January until 28 February 2017, return tickets are half price after 6pm. The Sunset special will give you the opportunity to take your children out during the holidays even if you’re not on holiday.

For more information contact +27 (0)21 424 8181.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs returns to the stage, to warm your little one’s hearts this holiday season. This is a story of a young beautiful girl who was brought up by a cruel stepmother who was jealous of her beauty. After her stepmother tries to get rid of her Snow White runs away and finds a small house, which belongs to the Seven Dwarfs. After she tells them her story they feel sorry for her and ask her to stay with them. This classic fairytale is directed by Cheryl Abramowitz and performed by the Stagecraft Drama Studio cast. Don’t forget to dress your little one as a prince or princess, there will be a prize for the best costumes. The play will be shown at Artscape Theater Foyer Well, from 8 December until 23 December 2016.

There will be no show on 16th December 2016, book a ticket at Computicket or Dial-a-Seat +27 (0)21 421 7695.

Circus Holiday Workshop 
You might have the next circus star in your own house, so why not explore something new and let your child have a go at an uncommon activity? Safe and under the supervision of the professionals from The Silk Workshop, your little darlings will have the opportunity to learn tricks of the trade from the best of the best, such as acrobatics, juggling, human pyramid building, hula hooping, contortion and aerial skills. This amazingly fun workshop (aimed at ages 6-13 years old) will keep the kids off the sofa and get them into active mode, ready for more fun activities to come. The workshop is a four-day long session, and is being hosted at Erin Hall in Rondebosch.

For more info, contact thesilkworkshop@gmail.com, or call them on +27 (0)73 273 3538.

Kids’ Rock Climbing Holiday Programme
Keeping kids active during the school holidays can be tough, but CityRock offers the perfect solution. Their rock climbing holiday programme for children is the perfect way to keep your kids away from the TV. This workshop occupies two hours of your child’s day for three days in a row. Who knows; they might become the next rock climber extraordinaire. The minimum age for this workshop is eight-years-old and participants don't need any previous climbing experience to participate.

For more info and to make a booking please contact the organisers directly on +27 (0)21 4471326 or email them at kids@cityrock.co.za.

Fun Activities for Kids at the V&A Waterfront
The Zip Zap Circus School, an hour long energy packed show at the V&A Waterfront Amphitheatre. From 12- 30 December 2016, the show will run from 16h00-17h00.

For more information, contact Marcelle at marcelle@zip-zap.co.za or call +27 (0)74 668 5802.

Summer is the perfect time for outdoor adventure sports, if you have little skaters, bike riders or your kids have inline skates or scooters. The Pump track at Quays Deck, is the perfect and safe environment for children to ride bikes or skateboards. This event will start on the 8th of December until 10 January 2017. The duration of each session will be seven hours from 10h30 until 17h00. 

For more info, visit the V&A Waterfront website at Waterfront.co.za or contact the V&A Waterfront Info Centre on info@waterfront.co.za.

Cecilia Forest Hiking
Hosted by Fit Kids, on the 15th and 19th of December 2016, this event promises to get children, older than the age of six to explore a world of adventure through an active lifestyle. Children will be able to make new friends and burn some well needed energy on this hike! Hosted by Coach Trev and Simon from Fit Kids, the children will be safe and sound under their supervision. This beautifully scenic activity is great for little humans to make new friends in an outdoor environment. Meet at the Cecillia Plantation entrance on Rhodes Drive, and remember to bring walking shoes, hats, jackets (incase it gets a little chilly), snacks and water before 9am.The hike will finish around 11.30am and you can collect your children at the same spot.

We suggest you book your kid(s) spot on bookings@fitkids-sa.co.za or for more information go to Fitkids-sa.co.za.

Kalk Bay Rod Fishing
Another entertaining option hosted by Fit Kids, takes place in Kalk Bay. This event takes place on the 15th of December 2016 from 2pm until 4.30pm and is aimed at little humans between the ages of 8 and 12 years old. The coaches, Trev and Simon, from the organization, promise to look after the children, as they enjoy the beach, fresh air and the chance to attempt to learn how to fish. Bring along shoes that can get wet, a hat, snacks and water. Children are promised an enjoyable couple of hours that include beach activities and games and the chance to see if they you are able to catch a fish. The sand and ocean is an ideal atmosphere to meet new people and make a whole bunch of new friends!

We suggest you book your kid(s) spot on bookings@fitkids-sa.co.za  or for more information go to Fitkids-sa.com.

Lemonade Day
The perfect opportunity to help your kids develop some valuable entrepreneurial skills. This initiative is aimed at giving kids, from all walks of life, the chance to learn how to set goals, make plans, work the plan and achieve their dreams. It’s definitely a skill set that will benefit their futures in an interactive and fun way. If you’re stuck for ideas on how to keep your children entertained, this is definitely a great option for fun combined with education and activity.  

We suggest you book your kids a spot by visiting Lemonadeday.org, follow the guidelines and thank us later!

School of Rock little WING programme
With the summer holidays fast approaching, it might be hard to find something fun and constructive for your kids to do. The School of Rock franchise, invites parents to enroll their kids into a summer programme, where the kids will part take in learning how to play an instrument of their choice. You could unlock your child’s hidden potential and help them hone musical prowess that could see them become influential musicians, in the future. This is a great way for the kids to express themselves in a melodic and creative way, while having lots of fun and making new friends at the same time. This is perfect for parents who are strapped for time and need to do their Christmas shopping.

We suggest you book your kids a spot or find out more information by visiting Schoolofrock.com/Claremont.

Artjamming
Time to inspire the little Picasso in your child. This is such a wonderful initiative that allows children to come in and create their own works of art. The great thing is that your child doesn’t need to be a talented artist (yet). It could be their first time painting or drawing, but they will be welcomed in an environment that will help your child cultivate their ability to express themselves through the medium of painting and sketching. The organisers create an atmosphere that is conducive to inspire imagination and creativity. Kids put on their aprons and start artjamming on blank canvasses while chilled music plays in the background. Perfect!

We suggest you book your kids a spot with artjamming this summer by visiting Artjamming.co.za.

Clay Cafe
Here you will find another artsy experience for kids to enjoy during their summer holidays. The Clay Cafe creates a perfect space for your kids and their friends to enjoy a fun-filled, creative activity. Parents are welcome to sit back and watch their kids express their creativity in a messy and fun way. The wonderful staff at the Clay Cafe will provide supervision, so it will be a truly chilled experience for parents needing to take a load off. When the kids are done with the painting shenanigans, they can go out and explore the wonderful garden, climbing wall and playground area outside. 

We suggest you book your child a spot at Clay Cafe by contacting: +27 (0)21 790 3318.

Jolly Roger Pirate Boat
Something exciting for all sea lovers and pirate enthusiasts, this authentic replica of a pirate ship will have your kids in a state of fun-filled folly.  If you want your children and one or two of their friends to have an absolutely splendid time, it doesn’t get any cooler than this. The kids activities aboard the boat include: a pirate show (naturally), a treasure hunt, face painting/tattoos and walking the plank! There is a catch; the boat has a maximum capacity of 75 pax and they only allow 10 kids on the boat per trip. Spoil your kid this summer and take them on a pirate adventure that will make their holiday worth remembering. 

Book you and your kid(s) a spot aboard the Jolly Roger Pirate Boat: +27(0)21 421 0909.

Deer Park Hiking & Games (December)
Yet another activity hosted by Fit Kidz, but fortunately this adventure is in Cape Town’s backyard. There are two events and they will take place on 13 December (2pm-4:30pm) and 20 December (2pm- 4:30pm). Deer Park can be found nestled in the microcosm of the Table Mountain National Park and has been a site of historical significance for generations. Your kids can take a walk on the wild side, under the experienced and watchful gaze of coaches, Trevor and Simon. Parents, please ensure that you equip your children with the following: shoes that can get wet, a hat, snacks and water. Also bring along something warm to wear in case temperatures drop. This is the perfect way to keep your children fit and healthy. It also gives parents a well deserved day off while your child is having a chaperoned adventure. This activity is suitable for kids 6 years and older.


Book your kids a spot on bookings@fitkids-sa.co.za or for more information go to Fitkids-sa.co.za.

Green-Belt Adventures
Another Fit Kidz adventure that promises to be unmissable for kids who love the outdoors. The events take place on 13 December as well as 22 December  from 9am -11:30am. The Green Belt is located in Constantia and boasts some lush, green scenery for avid, young adventurers to explore. There’s nothing like fresh air and a fun group of kids to explore together. They will be under the supervision of coaches, Trev and Simon, who will watch over your children as if they were their own. Don’t let your kids sit at home with only technology being their main source of entertainment to keep them busy. Provide them with a memorable adventure that encourages active lifestyles. Make sure you pack everything they need for a day out. The gathering point is at the start of Alphen Road in Constantia.

We suggest you book your kids spot on bookings@fitkids-sa.co.za or for more information go to Fitkids-sa.co.za.

Silvermine Waterfall Hiking
Do you want to get your children active during the December holidays? We have found a perfect solution. The Silvermine Nature Reserve is hosting the Silvermine Water Hike experience for kids on Wednesday, 14 December and on Thursday, 22 December 2016. The Silvermine Waterfall hike is an easy walk on a clearly marked trail, but it’s combined with a steep and narrow walk down to the 30m waterfall. Children meet coach Simon at the Silvermine Waterfall parking at 2pm. Be sure to wear some comfortable walking shoes, wear a hat, bring a jacket, some snacks and water. The experience is suitable for kids six years and older.The best part is that the guided walk is absolutely free!

Contact the Silvermine Nature Reserve on +27 (0)21 780 9002 for further details.

Fish Hoek Hand-line
Consider your little one a fisherman in the making? Well we have just the event to help with these future preparations to become a hand-line fisherman. Meet coach Simon at the Fish Hoek beach playground at 9am on Wednesday, 14 December, or at 2:30pm on Monday, 19 December. Make sure to bring along shoes that can get wet, a hat,m some snacks and some water. This event is suitable for kids aged between four to eight years old. 

Dalebrook Beach Adventures (20 December 2016)
Keeping your littles ones active is very important, not only for their physical well-being, but also to keep their curious minds active too. The Dalebrook beach adventure brought to you by Kids Fit is the perfect event to keep you kids find and learning new things. The event is a combination of Amazing Race and Survivor, with activities such as scavenger hunt, beach races, sandcastle competitions, ball games, challenges and more activities.These activities will definitely be one of your little ones’ best beach experience, the event will take place on Tuesday, 20 December from 2pm until 4:30pm. Meet coach Trav opposite Shark Centre Kalk Bay. Bring shoes that can get wet, hat, snacks and water!

Aimed at ages four to eight years. For more information and bookings visit Fitkids-sa.co.za | Bookings@fitkids-sa.co.za.

Pipe Track Hiking (12 & 22 December 2016)
The December school holidays are known to cause boredom and create couch potatoes. So what not give yourself a break and get the kids active with the Pipe Track hike for the kiddies. The walk is in stretches of 30 to 40 minutes, with 10 minute breaks in between. Sounds like fun, doesn’t it? Well that’s not all. Coach Simon will take an interactive walk with the kids and share knowledge about local mountains, plants and animals. The little ones will also have a stop for some snacks and a game to keep them entertained. This event will take place on 12 and 22 December, with the hike starting at 9am till 11:30am and 2pm till 4:30pm. Don’t miss this opportunity to get your kids involved in some holiday activities.

We suggest you book your kid(s) spot on Fitkids-sa.co.za/or for more information go to Fitkids-sa.co.

Peers Cave
Fit Kidz invites your children to come and enjoy a leisurely walk to one of Cape Town’s natural gems. Peers cave is discreetly tucked away just off the busy Ou Kaapse Weg, close to the Silvermine Nature Reserve. Residence of Kalk Bay, Muizenberg or Hout Bay areas are familiar with this little piece of paradise. It isn’t a strenuous journey by any means and boasts an idyllic view of Muizenberg and False Bay once inside the eye of the rugged cave. This is a great addition to a fun and memorable holiday. Children will be under the supervision of seasoned outdoorsmen, coaches Trev and Simon. Rest assured that they will take perfect care of your children and ensure that a great deal of fun will be had. Your kids have the opportunity to meet and make new friends, with similar interests as them. The events will take place on 12 and 21 December, starting at 2pm- 4:30pm. Be sure to enroll your kids to come have some fun, while cave dwelling.

We suggest you book your child a spot by contacting coach Simon at Simon@fitkids-sa.co.za he’ll be happy to provide any further information.

Snake & Reptile Show with Wild Magazine
Is your little one adventurous and valiant? We have the perfect way for him or her to kick-start their December holidays. Cape Union Mart in Canal Walk presents the Snake and Reptile Show with Wild Magazine on Saturday, 10 December. The show will be divided into two segments with the Snake Show starting at 10am to 11am. The display includes an interactive experience with various snakes and reptiles from Imhoff Snake Park, providing a platform for the little ones to safely touch and see these creatures. Stay afterwards for the Wall Climbing Activities happening between 11am and 12am. This will provide your child with an opportunity to gear up and tackle the Cape Union Mart in-store climbing wall with the help of experienced staff. The event is absolutely free but make sure to make sure to RSVP your attendance to wildevents@sanparks.org.

For more information phone Magriet Kruger on +27 (0)21 447 6094.

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Have you been naughty or nice this year? Let Santa decide in Santa's Village at the V&A Waterfront.

Looking for more kid-friendly to-dos? Have a look at our overview of 50 super cool things to do with kids as well as our 10 top adventures for kids in Cape Town. Otherwise, also have a look at our overview of annual June and July events to find out about more hot happenings taking place during the winter months.

One more thing to try this summer: Cherry Picking at Klondyke Cherry Farm. 

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