Educational leave: the top 5 activities

Pedagogical days punctuate the school year but are rarely taken into account in parents' overbooked schedules. To avoid the eternal 'what are we doing tomorrow, it's a pedagogical day,' here are some ideas we loved. The big advantage of these activities is that they are usually very popular (and therefore involve lots of queues, etc.), but less crowded on these weekdays, outside of school holidays of course :)

1: Walibi

An essential, with few queues, few people, and lots of fun. For all ages, the park features areas for the little ones, roller coasters for thrill-seekers – in short, a great day where everyone can find something they enjoy. Don't forget to check opening hours before you go, as the park is closed in winter. Feel free to check out its little brother Aqualibi as well.

Find all the information here.

2: Technopolis

A great place to satisfy children of all ages and their parents. A dedicated corner for toddlers allows them to enter an ambulance, go to a store for groceries, make pizzas, see how things work in a garage... for older children, there are plenty of scientific experiments, optical illusions and perspectives, centrifugal and centripetal force experiments, water, bubbles, noise, speed, virtual reality, etc... enough to spend a fulfilling day!

Find all the information here.

3: Efteling

Our favorite across the border. Efteling Park is located in the Netherlands and immerses us in the fairy tales of our childhood. Little Red Riding Hood, the three little pigs, pirates, trains – a truly magical and majestic universe. You'll find everything there: speed attractions for adrenaline junkies, carousels, fairy tale characters. A great day in an enchanting world.

Find all the information here.

4: Pairi Daiza

This constantly expanding park takes us on a journey across 5 continents. Animals from Africa – elephants, giraffes, zebras – to tigers from Asia and monkeys of all species, the North Pole with its polar bears and penguins, Canada with its brown bears, and felines. It truly is an animal paradise. Parking and access are very easy for a magnificent day outdoors.

Find all the information here.

5: Planckendael

A beautiful place to wander among animals: lions, tigers, giraffes, elephants, to name just a few. This park has the great advantage of being equipped with numerous playgrounds and dining areas, allowing for varied activities and some breaks. A lovely family outing away from busy days.

Find all the information here.

6: Plopsa

The only park we haven't tried yet. That will change soon, as soon as the next pedagogical day is in sight :)

Find all the information here.

7: Sealife

The most beautiful aquarium we have nearby, Sealife is also part of a program to protect marine fauna and flora. Since it's almost entirely indoors, we prefer gloomier, less crowded days, perfect for a pedagogical day.

Find all the information here.

Bonus: Tips for a successful outing

1. Pack a backpack with a water bottle and small snacks to keep the children occupied during lulls or queues.
2. The backpack also allows you to store sweaters during the visit.
3. Remember to provide each child with a safety bracelet with their first name and phone number, so they can be identified if needed.
4. Before each visit, suggest that the children make a stop at the restrooms; it's always complicated to have to leave part of the group for a small unforeseen event during the visit.
5. Take plenty of photos and ask the children what they liked best after the visit.

Enjoy yourselves!