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I don’t normally take the kids out to Orchard area UNLESS my hubby comes along (or unless I’m taking the kids for a swim at our friend’s apartment)

But since my mobile phone practically ‘died’ and badly needed to be serviced, I went with the kids there today.

While Anya’s generally okay with long bus rides and eating outside, Vai being the more active type on the other hand needs a slightly ‘different’ approach when we’re outside for quite a long period of time.

Here are just a few things that have worked so far for us whenever I’m out and about with the kids:

>> Bring along an extra wallet (or something with pockets and slots) with cards and stuff inside. Vai does get himself busy and occupied with it for quite a LONG time (it works during our 30-minute bus trips)

>> Choose higher-levelled seats (the ones next to the ’space-to-park-your-pram’ near the back exit door are the best!) where kids can look out the window without needing to kneel or stand. Vai - though not always - does get interested in observing things that happen outside.

>> When it comes to mealtimes, I usually choose a place where we can see pigeons, cats or whatever animals nearby (though not always possible of course) as they serve as live-entertainment for the kids!

Sometimes it means sitting outdoors (read: with no air-con), but I’m completely fine with it as long as it helps me in getting Vai to finish up his food (yes, till today he generally still needs to be distracted in order for him to eat his food).

For Orchard area, there’s one spot that I’ve tried twice and worked really well for Vai especially.

It’s Burger King nearest to Borders bookstore. And I’d choose the seats at the far corner, next to the glass window.

Not only because we’re inside the air-conditioned room while it’s scorching hot outside, but watching the MANY pigeons fly and walk past just outside the window keeps them so entertained!

And errr … munching on the chips too get them pretty occupied!

PS: We’re not into letting the kids eat fast food stuff often. But when we do, we try to avoid getting the chips salted …