Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden guide
If you’re looking to embark on an outdoor adventure with your lil one, Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden is an underrated gem that more mummies and daddies should put on their weekend itinerary.
From a water play area to a flying fox for maximum thrills, Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden could be your new go-to – the best part? Admission is absolutely FOC.
Note: From now till 8th Sep 2021 the garden is operating with a limited capacity for safe distancing. Pre-book your visits to avoid waiting in line.
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First garden in Asia dedicated to children
Image credit: @dreamtravelfamily
True to its name, Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden is dedicated to the kiddos – specifically those aged 14 and below. If your child is under 12, do note that they must be accompanied by an adult. Admission is totally free – for parents, your “ticket” is simply to have a kid in tow.
For the safety and comfort of all children, pets are not allowed, and modes of transport like bicycles and skateboards are a no-no as well.
Image credit: @jptan212
The garden’s theme is “Life on Earth Depends on Plants”, which speaks volumes about its aim to inculcate a love of nature in the little ones. It’s also named in memory of Jacob Ballas, a former philanthropist who strongly believed in educating and providing opportunities for youths.
Amenities and things to do at the garden
The garden offers a myriad of zones where children can have a whale of a time, whether they like hands-on experiences or prefer to just frolic amongst nature.
Image credit: @jmextel
For a much-needed opportunity to let your kids let loose and play, don’t forget to pack a change of clothes and bring them down to the Water Play area, or watch as they navigate their way through the Melting Maze.
Note: Water Play area is currently closed for refurbishment until further notice.
For the little ones to get in touch with nature, there are quaint areas like the Sensory Garden and Potting Garden, where they can immerse themselves in the surrounding greenery.
Image credit: @i_am_ayumini
Kids will defo be looking forward to unleashing their inner Dora the Explorer at the Tree House’s thrilling slides and swinging Suspension Bridge.
Image credit: @xiaoluabao
Other notable amenities include the Mushroom Shelters, as well as a pond and cave that comes with a mini man-made waterfall.
Image credit: @siaing
The learning doesn’t stop there as well – you can also drop by the Nature Play Pavilion to let your little ones find out more about the world of plants. The Kitchen Classroom may also have hands-on culinary programmes held for kids to learn about the food process chain and how plants are incorporated into our diet.
Image credit: @shutterbugzz118
Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden also has a Farm to shout about, where wide-eyed young ones can learn about how fruits and vegetables like basil and avocados are grown, as well as a Fruit Orchard with seed planting areas featuring rice and chilli plants. They can even put their green thumbs to the test by growing their very own cocoa and tea leaves.
Image credit: @master_rammkrish
In the forest is the Flying Fox zipline for those looking for a fun adrenaline rush. Don’t worry though – the elevation is not high, and a sandpit lies right under to cushion any falls.
Note: Flying Fox is currently closed for maintenance until further notice.
You can even find a wheelchair-inclusive mini trampoline nearby
Image credit: @rickylai.sg
Have a picnic in the garden, or make a pit stop at Food for Tots cafe – a kids cafe with light snacks and drinks so everyone can fuel up and recharge their energy.
Visiting Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden
Nestled in Bukit Timah, Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden is just a stone’s throw away from Singapore Botanic Gardens. With a barrage of things to do, Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden is truly a cut above your average garden or playground.
Address: 481 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 259769
Opening hours: Tue – Sun 8AM-7PM (Closed on Mondays)
For more nature articles:
Cover image adapted from (L-R): @anyta_anthony, @jmextel @mahota_preschool, @shutterbugzz118
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