BUSINESS CENTRE
XpatAthens
Wednesday, 14 October 2020 12:34
Fun Things To Do In Athens With Teenagers
As any parent of teenagers knows, you’re only ever as happy as your least happy teen. That goes double for family holidays. We come to the rescue with a curated guide to some of the best teen-pleaser experiences in Athens, no matter what mood you’re up against.
Olympic Games Workout
How to make your teen zone out? Take them on a traditional sight-seeing tour where they get talked at for hours on end. Do you prefer to see them engaged and enjoying themselves? Sign them up for a 2-hour Olympic Games Workout that combines history with the right amount of physical challenges to teach you about the Olympic Games, both ancient and modern. The kids will love the end game: running on the epic Panathenaic track at the world’s only all-marble stadium, the birthplace of the modern Olympics.
Malakasa Adventure Park
It’s hard to be all moany and shruggy when you’re flying from tree to tree fifteen metres above the ground. If city fatigue has set in, this adventure park is one of the most enjoyable family days out in Athens. The park is an addictive network of Tarzan swings and zip slides laid out over 50 acres of forest, about 40 minutes north of the city-centre, divided into age-appropriate skill levels. It’s lovely and cool in the summer and in the wintertime, you’ll appreciate the alpine atmosphere. You can buy coffee and drinks, but there are no food facilities, so bring along some snacks. Picnic among the pines on wooden benches, or stop off at one of the traditional tavernas in Malakasa town, a few minutes away.
Water Sports on the Athens Riviera
Does your teen believe they can walk on water? From May to early October, put them to the test with a stand-up paddleboard session at Yasurfaki water sports club. Located inside Varkiza resort, one of the biggest—and cleanest—organised sandy beaches on the Athens Riviera, Yasurfaki has been a massive hit with local families and is. Yasurfaki offers all kinds of watersports, such as windsurfing, wakeboarding, and banana boats. Out of the water, there’s plenty to amuse your brood while you get your vitamin sea: beach volleyball, outdoor gyms, teen-cuisine like pizzas, burgers and souvlaki, and beach bars with summery DJ sets. You’ll pay an entrance fee of about €5-7 to access Varkiza Resort; extra for the watersports.
Museum of Illusions
Disappear down the rabbit hole at this small but fascinating novelty museum where nothing is what it seems. Perfectly-pitched for the Insta-generation, your teens will love putting their own filters and spin on some of the most popular illusions such as the Upside Down Room and the Head on a Plate. They’ll also pick up a lesson or two on vision, perception and the science of the human brain. Even though there’s probably only enough here to spend an hour or so, but the museum is located in a lively part of Athens that’s worth exploring afterwards. A little shop by the exit sells brain teasers and puzzles.
The Mind Trap
Tick tock, you’re on the clock. You have just 60 minutes to puzzle it out and escape from whatever deadly mission you’ve signed up for. Teens love the adrenaline rush of escape rooms, where they must work in small teams to crack clues and riddles during a dramatic scenario inspired by anything from Breaking Bad to Game of Thrones. Downtown Athens has several venues hosting daily escape room sessions in English. At The Mind Trap, which has branches in Monastiraki and Kolonaki, rebellious teens will get a kick out of playing “anti-hero” in the Ebola room: the goal is to release the killer virus before getting arrested.
Athens Street Art Tour
Teens are naturally drawn to the subversive energy of graffiti, and Athens has one of the hottest street art scenes in Europe. Find out the difference between “tagging” and “bombing” while you encounter some of the capital’s coolest neighbourhoods. Your guide Nikos is the real deal: a local painter, graphic designer and street artist himself. On this excellent 3-hour tour, he’ll reveal the political and social meanings, and hidden messages behind Athens street art—including ‘All Dogs go to Heaven’, a mural tribute to Loukaniko, the stray dog who loved to tag along on political demonstrations.
Latraac Skate Park
Impress your kids with your local street cred by taking them to this happening skate park in the Keramikos neighbourhood. Latraac—an experimental social space built by Greek skater and architect Zachos Varfis—has become ground zero for the Athens skate scene. Hidden from the street behind metal gates, it has the thrill of an insider secret. Even if you don’t have access to a skateboard, Latraac makes for brilliant street theatre: watch bowl contests or hard-core skaters perfect their moves on the laser-cut plywood bowl. Or soak up the creative buzz of the many artists and musicians who hang out here. Setting Latraac apart from other skate parks in the city is a hip bar and café where you can settle in and enjoy the show. They do a great weekend brunch, including pancakes, toasties and scrambled eggs.
Olympic Games Workout
How to make your teen zone out? Take them on a traditional sight-seeing tour where they get talked at for hours on end. Do you prefer to see them engaged and enjoying themselves? Sign them up for a 2-hour Olympic Games Workout that combines history with the right amount of physical challenges to teach you about the Olympic Games, both ancient and modern. The kids will love the end game: running on the epic Panathenaic track at the world’s only all-marble stadium, the birthplace of the modern Olympics.
Malakasa Adventure Park
It’s hard to be all moany and shruggy when you’re flying from tree to tree fifteen metres above the ground. If city fatigue has set in, this adventure park is one of the most enjoyable family days out in Athens. The park is an addictive network of Tarzan swings and zip slides laid out over 50 acres of forest, about 40 minutes north of the city-centre, divided into age-appropriate skill levels. It’s lovely and cool in the summer and in the wintertime, you’ll appreciate the alpine atmosphere. You can buy coffee and drinks, but there are no food facilities, so bring along some snacks. Picnic among the pines on wooden benches, or stop off at one of the traditional tavernas in Malakasa town, a few minutes away.
Water Sports on the Athens Riviera
Does your teen believe they can walk on water? From May to early October, put them to the test with a stand-up paddleboard session at Yasurfaki water sports club. Located inside Varkiza resort, one of the biggest—and cleanest—organised sandy beaches on the Athens Riviera, Yasurfaki has been a massive hit with local families and is. Yasurfaki offers all kinds of watersports, such as windsurfing, wakeboarding, and banana boats. Out of the water, there’s plenty to amuse your brood while you get your vitamin sea: beach volleyball, outdoor gyms, teen-cuisine like pizzas, burgers and souvlaki, and beach bars with summery DJ sets. You’ll pay an entrance fee of about €5-7 to access Varkiza Resort; extra for the watersports.
Museum of Illusions
Disappear down the rabbit hole at this small but fascinating novelty museum where nothing is what it seems. Perfectly-pitched for the Insta-generation, your teens will love putting their own filters and spin on some of the most popular illusions such as the Upside Down Room and the Head on a Plate. They’ll also pick up a lesson or two on vision, perception and the science of the human brain. Even though there’s probably only enough here to spend an hour or so, but the museum is located in a lively part of Athens that’s worth exploring afterwards. A little shop by the exit sells brain teasers and puzzles.
The Mind Trap
Tick tock, you’re on the clock. You have just 60 minutes to puzzle it out and escape from whatever deadly mission you’ve signed up for. Teens love the adrenaline rush of escape rooms, where they must work in small teams to crack clues and riddles during a dramatic scenario inspired by anything from Breaking Bad to Game of Thrones. Downtown Athens has several venues hosting daily escape room sessions in English. At The Mind Trap, which has branches in Monastiraki and Kolonaki, rebellious teens will get a kick out of playing “anti-hero” in the Ebola room: the goal is to release the killer virus before getting arrested.
Athens Street Art Tour
Teens are naturally drawn to the subversive energy of graffiti, and Athens has one of the hottest street art scenes in Europe. Find out the difference between “tagging” and “bombing” while you encounter some of the capital’s coolest neighbourhoods. Your guide Nikos is the real deal: a local painter, graphic designer and street artist himself. On this excellent 3-hour tour, he’ll reveal the political and social meanings, and hidden messages behind Athens street art—including ‘All Dogs go to Heaven’, a mural tribute to Loukaniko, the stray dog who loved to tag along on political demonstrations.
Latraac Skate Park
Impress your kids with your local street cred by taking them to this happening skate park in the Keramikos neighbourhood. Latraac—an experimental social space built by Greek skater and architect Zachos Varfis—has become ground zero for the Athens skate scene. Hidden from the street behind metal gates, it has the thrill of an insider secret. Even if you don’t have access to a skateboard, Latraac makes for brilliant street theatre: watch bowl contests or hard-core skaters perfect their moves on the laser-cut plywood bowl. Or soak up the creative buzz of the many artists and musicians who hang out here. Setting Latraac apart from other skate parks in the city is a hip bar and café where you can settle in and enjoy the show. They do a great weekend brunch, including pancakes, toasties and scrambled eggs.
To read more, please visit This is Athens
Whether you've just arrived in town – or have been here for years – Athens always has new secrets to share! This is Athens is the official guide to this captivating city of ancient energies and booming urban culture. Compiled by a team of specialist local writers, This is Athens brings you an authentic and intimate portrait of a living Athens beyond the guidebooks – along with daily curated listings of all the best events and great weekend inspiration all-year round. From must-know neighbourhoods and emerging art hubs, to gourmet hotspots, cool shopping and the buzziest bars, This is Athens will help you to get the most out of living in Athens!
Thank you This is Athens for your contribution as an XpatAthens Partner.
Published in
Kids Life
Tagged under
Sunday, 12 September 2021 07:00
How To Cope With Back-to-School Stress
Back-to-school anxiety is normal and understandable. Many kids may feel anxious about going back to school after a long summer break. Others may feel nervous about starting school for the first time.
Regardless of what the case may be, parents can help ease the transition back to school by being able to recognize the symptoms of stress and anxiety and implementing some creative strategies.
Reasons Kids Might Be Stressed or Anxious
COVID-Related Concerns
For students who spent months out of traditional in-person classrooms due to the COVID-19 pandemic, going back to school may feel extra intimidating or even scary.
COVID-Related Concerns
For students who spent months out of traditional in-person classrooms due to the COVID-19 pandemic, going back to school may feel extra intimidating or even scary.
They might be worried about everything from wearing masks and being unvaccinated to wondering if they will still have the same friends after being gone so long. They also may feel uncertain about what school will be like now and whether or not they will even know their way around.
Concerns About Friends, Bullies, and More
Sometimes, kids are anxious or worried about the upcoming school year because of experiences with bullies. For many kids, this time away from school was a welcome reprieve from mean behavior and cutting remarks. So, as the new school year approaches, they may begin to worry that they will have to go through the same experiences again.
Sometimes, kids are anxious or worried about the upcoming school year because of experiences with bullies. For many kids, this time away from school was a welcome reprieve from mean behavior and cutting remarks. So, as the new school year approaches, they may begin to worry that they will have to go through the same experiences again.
Kids also might be stressed about appearance-related issues. Children from underserved communities and/or those living in poverty may worry about not having the right clothes or supplies. Other kids may worry about how others will view them especially if they have experienced weight changes, are now wearing glasses, have developed acne, or have recently gone through puberty.
Tips for Dealing With Stress and Anxiety
Foster Familiarity
As the school year approaches, it's important to help your child feel more comfortable about their new school environment. One of the things that can cause back-to-school anxiety for kids is not knowing what to expect.
Foster Familiarity
As the school year approaches, it's important to help your child feel more comfortable about their new school environment. One of the things that can cause back-to-school anxiety for kids is not knowing what to expect.
Help them become more acclimated to new routines and unfamiliar surroundings by talking through what they might expect to see. Allow them to ask questions and answer them honestly.
Another option to help build your child's comfort level is to make a couple of trips to and from school. Whether your child will walk, take a school bus, or be driven to school, helping them become familiar with the route may help ease back-to-school anxiety.
Be Positive
One way to help ease anxiety and stress about starting school is to remind your kids about what makes going to school great. Aside from learning new things and participating in extracurricular activities, there is a lot that is good about school.
One way to help ease anxiety and stress about starting school is to remind your kids about what makes going to school great. Aside from learning new things and participating in extracurricular activities, there is a lot that is good about school.
For starters, there's the fun new school supplies and clothes. There are also friends, teachers, and staff members they haven't seen in a while. Remind your kids what they can look forward to about school, such as time with friends, the playground, gym class, art class, or visits to the library.
Assure Them They Aren't Alone
Remind your kids that they're not the only ones who may be nervous about starting school again. Other students are likely to be just as anxious as they are about the first day of school. Reassure them too, that the teacher knows kids are nervous, and will probably spend time helping students feel more comfortable as they settle into the classroom.
Remind your kids that they're not the only ones who may be nervous about starting school again. Other students are likely to be just as anxious as they are about the first day of school. Reassure them too, that the teacher knows kids are nervous, and will probably spend time helping students feel more comfortable as they settle into the classroom.
Promote Healthy Living
One of the best ways to combat anxiety and stress is to address eating, sleeping, and exercise habits. Make sure kids get enough sleep and eat a balanced diet. Getting adequate sleep and eating healthy food, especially a balanced breakfast, is important for brain function, mood, and the ability to focus and pay attention in school.
One of the best ways to combat anxiety and stress is to address eating, sleeping, and exercise habits. Make sure kids get enough sleep and eat a balanced diet. Getting adequate sleep and eating healthy food, especially a balanced breakfast, is important for brain function, mood, and the ability to focus and pay attention in school.
Likewise, your kids need plenty of opportunities to burn off steam. Some kids like playing active sports while others enjoy a quiet afternoon reading or journaling. Every kid is different. So, make sure you're choosing activities that are truly stress-relievers for your child.
To read this article in full, please visit: verywellfamily.com
To read this article in full, please visit: verywellfamily.com
Published in
Kids Life
Tagged under
Wednesday, 06 April 2022 07:00
Great Video Games With An Educational Value
One of the most common concerns parents have is whether their children spend too much time surfing the net, mindlessly scrolling on social media, watching YouTube videos for hours on end, or playing video games. Indeed, the misuse of technology can have negative effects, but moderate internet use is unlikely to do any harm, while it may also appear to have some benefits.
If you know where to look, you can find video games that are useful for children. Such video games help children develop specific skills, enhance their creativity, teach concepts such as fair play and competition, inspire interest in learning, and can bring parents closer to their children if the parents themselves decide to be part of the game process.
Minecraft
Minecraft is a building game that allows players to go on adventures, raise resources, and create tools. The game has different modes - survival, creativity, adventure, and multiplayer - so players have flexibility on how to approach it. Creative freedom and self-direction are not the only things the game offers. Minecraft teaches teamwork and motivation, while it can improve reading and math skills.
National Geographic Challenge
The National Geographic Challenge is a quiz game for the whole family. The game has a fairly wide range of low, medium, and high difficulty questions that cover different regions - North America, Europe, Asia, South America, Africa, and Australia. Start the game by selecting an avatar, and then you can try to answer 40, 60, or 80 of the game's timed questions. During the game, children will have the opportunity to see stunning photos and videos from the National Geographic archive.
Nancy Drew Interactive Mysteries
This game allows children to play as Nancy and become amateur detectives who solve mysteries. They will interrogate suspects, solve puzzles, and discover clues until they finally catch the culprit. Through play, children learn without even realizing it. They learn about historical figures, discover different cultures, and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
World Rescue
Developed by ZU Digital in collaboration with UNESCO, the game takes place in Kenya, Norway, Brazil, India, and China. There, children are asked to help five heroes solve problems such as diseases, deforestation, drought, and pollution. In addition to geography, children learn concepts such as sustainability and activism while being informed about global problems and how they can be solved.
Published in
Kids Life
Tagged under
Tuesday, 03 May 2022 07:00
3 Surprising Benefits Of Video Games
Parents all over the world have always been concerned, and now more than ever, about whether and to what extent video games can harm children. We have often blamed video games for promoting violence, making children antisocial, interfering with their school life, and negatively impacting their brain development. Sure, excessive gaming can make all of the above happen. But what if video games can actually make children smarter?
As with everything in life, playing video games should be done in moderation so that children can enjoy the benefits of this activity. It is also very important for parents to help their children choose video games with an educational value that can help them develop specific skills and games appropriate for their age and cognitive level.
Video games can improve memory
With 3D graphics and immersive sound, video games are extremely rich in stimuli. Navigating the virtual world of video games is more or less like navigating the real world. So, when a child explores the environment in a particular video game, it is like exploring the environment around them, practicing various skills, one of which is memory.
More specifically, as children navigate the virtual world of a video game, they exercise the hippocampus, the part of the brain responsible for converting short-term memory into long-term memory and controlling spatial memory.
Video games help children develop problem-solving skills
Strategy video games and role-playing games usually require players to solve complex problems. This virtual problem-solving can be good practice for real-life problems. In fact, according to a 2013 study by the American Psychological Society, teens who played strategy video games had better problem-solving skills and better grades.’
Almost all video games involve solving problems, from completing a simple puzzle to finding the fastest escape route. Finding a solution to these problems may require both memorization and analysis, as well as creativity. Problems in video games are often very open without giving many instructions on how to approach the solution, which means that players have to experiment with trial and error. This way children can learn how it takes resilience, perseverance, and constant effort to achieve something in life.
Video games help children develop decision-making skills
Action video games require children to be constantly alert and make decisions. A 2010 study by the University of Rochester found that gamers who loved action games were able to make accurate choices faster than non-gamers or those who played slow-paced video games.
Video games can also improve decision-making as it relates to long-term planning. When children play strategy games, they have to plan ahead and make decisions that will benefit them down the road. These games train their brains to recognize potential outcomes and implications of their choices. When a person practices these skills in a virtual world, they will be able to better apply them in the real world.
Published in
Kids Life
Tagged under
Monday, 20 June 2022 17:04
15 Fun Holiday Activities To Enjoy With Your Kids
Summer is already here, and the summer holidays are fast approaching. So, if you plan to enjoy them with your family, it would be great to have some activities planned. As you know, children (and adults!) tend to get bored easily, so if you have a pre-planned activity program, you can enjoy quality time together and break your cell phone addiction!
Of course, this does not mean you have to stress over doing everything on the list. Remember that a trip with the whole family can be challenging, so you don’t need the extra stress. Just slow down, relax, and embrace the summer season with your loved ones!
Beach Picnic
Beach Picnic
Sea whets the appetite, so a picnic on the beach provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy a meal together and refuel your bodies after a swim!
Swimming
Muscle strengthening, improving the cardiorespiratory system, relieving stress, and promoting socialization are just a few benefits of swimming.
Visiting Museums & Archeological Sites
With children entitled to reduced admission to most museums, visiting museums and sightseeing, in general, is both educational and economical for children and parents!
Sailing
Sailing is a great sport for children to learn to love the sea and overcome their fear of water.
Reading
Reading is not just an individual activity. You can read a book together, as a family, one chapter at a time. Reading will automatically become more interesting for both you and the children.
Board Games
All-time classic, beloved, mystery, strategy, or fantasy, board games sharpen the mind and encourage fair play.
Cooking
Cooking is a great way to spend time together and help children express their creativity and feel that they contribute to the family dynamic.
Hiking
Hiking is one of the best hobbies you can start as a family, as it allows you to explore breathtaking places and improve overall well-being by promoting physical activity.
Open-air Cinema
In Greece, every neighborhood has an open-air cinema, ideal for those who want to enjoy a movie under the starry sky.
Diving
Diving is an exciting activity for everyone. You and your children, accompanied by a professional diver, can become underwater explorers and discover the seabed's magical secrets.
Cycling
Everyone knows that some of the best childhood memories feature bikes as perfect companions for all of our adventures.
Camping
Nature, less screen time, spending quality face-to-face time with other campers, and the overall feeling of pure relaxation are a few reasons you should try this unique experience.
Ball Games
Sports are essential for the mental and physical health of children and adults. A family game of basketball, football, or any other sport, is a great way to promote sportsmanship.
Theater Show
Theatrical education should be an integral part of children’s extracurricular education as it positively contributes to increasing concentration, attention, and empathy.
Kayaking
Kayaking can be done on rivers, lakes, or the sea and is an experience you will surely love.
Swimming
Muscle strengthening, improving the cardiorespiratory system, relieving stress, and promoting socialization are just a few benefits of swimming.
Visiting Museums & Archeological Sites
With children entitled to reduced admission to most museums, visiting museums and sightseeing, in general, is both educational and economical for children and parents!
Sailing
Sailing is a great sport for children to learn to love the sea and overcome their fear of water.
Reading
Reading is not just an individual activity. You can read a book together, as a family, one chapter at a time. Reading will automatically become more interesting for both you and the children.
Board Games
All-time classic, beloved, mystery, strategy, or fantasy, board games sharpen the mind and encourage fair play.
Cooking
Cooking is a great way to spend time together and help children express their creativity and feel that they contribute to the family dynamic.
Hiking
Hiking is one of the best hobbies you can start as a family, as it allows you to explore breathtaking places and improve overall well-being by promoting physical activity.
Open-air Cinema
In Greece, every neighborhood has an open-air cinema, ideal for those who want to enjoy a movie under the starry sky.
Diving
Diving is an exciting activity for everyone. You and your children, accompanied by a professional diver, can become underwater explorers and discover the seabed's magical secrets.
Cycling
Everyone knows that some of the best childhood memories feature bikes as perfect companions for all of our adventures.
Camping
Nature, less screen time, spending quality face-to-face time with other campers, and the overall feeling of pure relaxation are a few reasons you should try this unique experience.
Ball Games
Sports are essential for the mental and physical health of children and adults. A family game of basketball, football, or any other sport, is a great way to promote sportsmanship.
Theater Show
Theatrical education should be an integral part of children’s extracurricular education as it positively contributes to increasing concentration, attention, and empathy.
Kayaking
Kayaking can be done on rivers, lakes, or the sea and is an experience you will surely love.
Published in
Kids Life
Tagged under
Monday, 20 January 2025 07:00
Great Theme Parks To Visit In Greece
Who does not love the exhilaration of theme parks? From your 7-year-old nephew to your 35-year-old co-worker at work, there is just something about theme parks that endears them to a multitude of visitors of all ages.
If you ask us, there isn't anything better than a family enjoying a theme park together. Luckily, Greece is home to some beautiful theme parks you can explore, try interesting activities, and spend quality time together.
Here is a small list of some great theme parks, perfect if you want to take a break from your daily routine and escape to nature for a while!
Mia fora ki enan kairo
Courtesy: miaforakienankairo.com
Located just an hour from the city center, Mia Fora Ki Enan Kairo is a park surrounded by lush nature where you can get acquainted with village life and enjoy endless play! You can also have the chance to interact with various animals and practice your favorite sport! Through experiential tours, children of all ages are able to embark on a journey to a bygone era, traveling back to those nostalgic days of yesteryear when people would harmoniously coexist with nature.
Location: Panagias Grigorousis, Avlona
Telephone: 22950-29933
Hours:Saturday-Sunday from 10 am to 10 pm
Donkeysland
@gagarasb
A donkey sanctuary in Koropi, about 40 minutes southeast of Athens, Donkeysland aims to inform kids, adults, and animal lovers, in general, about donkeys. Donkeys are part and parcel of Greek village life and culture. You will learn information about these beautiful equines and have the opportunity to pet and feed them, always under the instructions of well-trained and experienced staff. Donkeys are extremely caring, communicative, and playful animals, able to develop a very tender relationship with any person, especially a child!Location: Koropi
Telephone: 6944 616160
Hours: Saturday-Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm
Adventure Park
@mylittleworld.gr
Located in Malakasa, just outside Athens, Adventure Park is the perfect place to be if you seek a way of life that embraces thrilling leisure along with nature, environmental education, and action. The park provides a wide range of fun and exciting activities, each with a different level of difficulty, so anyone can participate. Depending on their age, kids can opt for several nature-associated activities, test their strengths, and explore their abilities. Of course, training is mandatory, even for the easiest of games, because safety comes first!
Location: Provincial road of Malakasa -Oropou, Malakasa
Telephone: 2295 098335
Hours: Wednesday-Sunday from 10 am until sunset
The Ranch
@evzeni_
The Ranch, which sits on 400 acres in the Peloponnese, is a Western-themed park that combines stunning natural beauty with modern facilities. It provides a delightful one-day excursion for people of all ages. Everyone can play, learn, and grow while participating in one of the various activities the park offers, from all kinds of sports to oh-so-fun pony rides. If you wish to extend your trip, accommodation options are available, and the park also features a restaurant and a cafe bar.
Location: Sofiko, Korinthia
Telephone: 2741 093800
Hours: Saturday & Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm
Saloon Park
@saloon_park
Nestled amidst the mountains of Karpenisi, Saloon Park promises to offer a memorable Western experience! People of all ages are welcome to ride on the train through the fiery nature, try horseback riding, jump on the trampoline, have a picnic under the blue sky, and see a deer or two if they are lucky enough. Or, you can relax with a coffee by the fireplace in the wooden retreat, enjoying the beauty of Greek nature combined with the ambiance of the American South.Location: Sofiko, Korinthia
Telephone: 22370 24606
Hours: Monday-Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm
Published in
Kids Life
Tagged under
Wednesday, 28 December 2022 09:45
Exploring Museums With Kids
The world’s earliest analog computer, the first robot in history, and the gods of Olympus; masterpieces of ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine and contemporary art; plants and animals that live on the surface of the earth, in the vastness of the sky and in the depths of the ocean; and illusions that fool the mind and the eye: the museums of Athens can conjure up a magical world for young visitors, sparking their imagination. Tailored programs and tours take them on a journey of experiential learning through play.
Happy Trails
At the Acropolis Museum, children can follow different paths of exploration. Specially designed pamphlets for younger visitors highlight subject matter and difficulty levels suitable for different age groups. With these in hand, young explorers can discover the museum’s treasures while exercising their memory, using their imagination, and having fun. One trail, “The Parthenon Sculptures: Six Short Stories of Separation,” takes them to the Parthenon Gallery on the museum’s third floor, where they’ll find out more about what are arguably the most famous sculptures in the world. Through the stories of these masterpieces, they’ll learn how and why some became separated and where they are today.
The Origins Of Technology
Can a robot operate without batteries or electricity? Ancient musical instruments and toys, the ancient Greek “smart” home, an innovative wine jug, and an automaton puppet theater are some of the unique interactive exhibits at the Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology. From the robotic “servant” of Philo of Byzantium to the mechanized puppet theater of Hero of Alexandria, and from the mechanical clock of Ctesibius to the world’s first analog computer, the Antikythera Mechanism, the technologies on display cover the period from 2000 BC to the end of the Ancient Greek era. The Kotsanas Museum features fully functional replicas of more than 400 inventions, many of which remain relatively unknown. Young visitors will be struck by the similarities between ancient innovations and the origins of modern technology. Ctesibius, Plato, Aristotle and other great minds are willing to share their secrets. Are you ready to join them?
Just An Illusion
At the Museum of Illusions, nothing is what it seems. Here, anything can happen, and every visit is an exciting adventure that will leave children and parents alike wide-eyed in disbelief. You’ll watch yourself shrink, see double, experience holograms, and even… disappear! Through a series of illusions, visitors will learn that their senses can be fooled and that the world is full of visual percepts that appear to be at odds with reality. A stop here is sure to entertain museumgoers of all ages.
Herons, Butterflies, & Koalas
As they explore the fantastic collection of the Goulandris Natural History Museum, visitors learn about the reptiles of the world, from the Caretta caretta sea turtle to the Nile crocodile (there is even an accurate replica of a Triceratops), as well as 180 species of birds that nest in Greece, along with birds from Africa and Central America. In the museum’s entomological exhibition, they can admire butterflies and other species of insects from various countries, while the mammal collection includes the kangaroo, koala, lions, leopards, baboons, and giraffes. The botanical exhibition provides the perfect introduction to the plant kingdom. The museum also has halls dedicated to marine biology, featuring an impressive collection of shells from the Greek seas; paleontology, with characteristic samples of fossils; and geology, with an extensive collection of rocks and minerals. All exhibit descriptions are in Greek and English.
To read this article in full, please visiti: greece-is.com
Happy Trails
At the Acropolis Museum, children can follow different paths of exploration. Specially designed pamphlets for younger visitors highlight subject matter and difficulty levels suitable for different age groups. With these in hand, young explorers can discover the museum’s treasures while exercising their memory, using their imagination, and having fun. One trail, “The Parthenon Sculptures: Six Short Stories of Separation,” takes them to the Parthenon Gallery on the museum’s third floor, where they’ll find out more about what are arguably the most famous sculptures in the world. Through the stories of these masterpieces, they’ll learn how and why some became separated and where they are today.
The Origins Of Technology
Can a robot operate without batteries or electricity? Ancient musical instruments and toys, the ancient Greek “smart” home, an innovative wine jug, and an automaton puppet theater are some of the unique interactive exhibits at the Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology. From the robotic “servant” of Philo of Byzantium to the mechanized puppet theater of Hero of Alexandria, and from the mechanical clock of Ctesibius to the world’s first analog computer, the Antikythera Mechanism, the technologies on display cover the period from 2000 BC to the end of the Ancient Greek era. The Kotsanas Museum features fully functional replicas of more than 400 inventions, many of which remain relatively unknown. Young visitors will be struck by the similarities between ancient innovations and the origins of modern technology. Ctesibius, Plato, Aristotle and other great minds are willing to share their secrets. Are you ready to join them?
Just An Illusion
At the Museum of Illusions, nothing is what it seems. Here, anything can happen, and every visit is an exciting adventure that will leave children and parents alike wide-eyed in disbelief. You’ll watch yourself shrink, see double, experience holograms, and even… disappear! Through a series of illusions, visitors will learn that their senses can be fooled and that the world is full of visual percepts that appear to be at odds with reality. A stop here is sure to entertain museumgoers of all ages.
Herons, Butterflies, & Koalas
As they explore the fantastic collection of the Goulandris Natural History Museum, visitors learn about the reptiles of the world, from the Caretta caretta sea turtle to the Nile crocodile (there is even an accurate replica of a Triceratops), as well as 180 species of birds that nest in Greece, along with birds from Africa and Central America. In the museum’s entomological exhibition, they can admire butterflies and other species of insects from various countries, while the mammal collection includes the kangaroo, koala, lions, leopards, baboons, and giraffes. The botanical exhibition provides the perfect introduction to the plant kingdom. The museum also has halls dedicated to marine biology, featuring an impressive collection of shells from the Greek seas; paleontology, with characteristic samples of fossils; and geology, with an extensive collection of rocks and minerals. All exhibit descriptions are in Greek and English.
To read this article in full, please visiti: greece-is.com
Published in
Kids Life
Tagged under
Wednesday, 06 March 2024 12:06
Family Fun in Athens: Top Activities For Kids
Are you looking for fun things to do in Athens with your kids, whether you're a local or just visiting? Athens isn't just about ancient history; it's a lively city with plenty of activities to keep children entertained and happy. Here's a list of family-friendly attractions and experiences that will make your time in Athens unforgettable!
1. Acropolis Museum
Credit: Heracles Kritikos
Credit: Heracles Kritikos
Greece is renowned for its abundance of museums, and while sightseeing might not always be the top choice for little ones, there are certain museums that are sure to captivate their interest. One such gem is the Acropolis Museum! Boasting interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations, and captivating artifacts, this museum offers a delightful journey through ancient Greek history, making learning both enjoyable and engaging for children.
2. National Garden
Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
Athens may not be the greenest of cities, but it has its fair share of beautiful parks! Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend some quality time in the tranquil National Garden. Located in the heart of Athens, this green oasis is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Kids will love exploring the winding paths, spotting turtles in the ponds, and playing in the playgrounds scattered throughout the park.
3. Attica Zoological Park
Credit: Eleanna Kounoupa
Credit: Eleanna Kounoupa
Animal-loving kids will be thrilled to visit the Attica Zoological Park. Home to over 2,000 animals from around the world, including lions, giraffes, and elephants, this zoo offers a fun and educational experience for the whole family. Don't miss the daily animal shows and feeding sessions for an extra dose of excitement.
4. Allou! Fun Park
Credit: @nikolashots
Credit: @nikolashots
For a day packed with excitement, head to Allou! Fun Park. With a wide range of rides and attractions, including roller coasters, bumper cars, and water slides, this amusement park guarantees endless entertainment for kids of all ages. Plus, there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants and snack bars to keep everyone fueled throughout the day.
5. Athens Happy Train
Courtesy: Athens Happy Train
Courtesy: Athens Happy Train
Hop aboard the Athens Happy Train for a unique way to explore the city. This colorful train takes passengers on a scenic tour of Athens, passing by major landmarks such as the Acropolis, Plaka, and Syntagma Square. Kids will love riding a train while taking in the sights and sounds of the city.
6. Planetarium & Science Center
Courtesy: Eugenides Foundation
Courtesy: Eugenides Foundation
Ignite your child's curiosity with a visit to the Eugenides Foundation Planetarium and Science Center. There, kids can learn about space through immersive planetarium shows and interactive exhibits. From learning about the solar system to experimenting with hands-on activities, there's plenty to inspire young minds.
7. Beach Day
Credit: @anna_lullaby
Credit: @anna_lullaby
With approximately 250 days of sunshine each year, Athens invites you to soak up the sun at its stunning beaches! A quick drive from the city center reveals picturesque shores with crystal-clear waters, perfect for a leisurely stroll on the sand or a refreshing swim during the warmer seasons. Pack a picnic, unwind, and savor a serene day by the sea.
8. Goulandris Natural History Museum
Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
Dive into the fascinating world of nature at the Goulandris Natural History Museum. With exhibits showcasing everything from dinosaurs to marine life, this museum offers an immersive learning experience for children of all ages. Interactive displays and hands-on activities make it a fun and educational outing for the whole family.
Published in
Kids Life
Tagged under
Friday, 19 April 2024 00:06
Easter Adventure At Technopolis: Unforgettable Fun For Kids
Just before Easter, the old gasworks factory becomes the perfect destination for the most unique "getaway" in the heart of Athens!
From Monday, April 29th, to Wednesday, May 1st, when schools are closed and the mood for play is high, the Industrial Gas Museum welcomes children aged 8-12, offering them the perfect Easter "holiday" in the city center!
At the exciting Easter Camp taking place at the old gasworks factory in Athens, fun and adventure are guaranteed! Outdoor activities, art creations, mystery games, acrobatics, yoga, dance, and music make up a rich Easter program that will thrill the kids, while also boosting their creativity and social skills. Activities start at 8:30 in the morning and run until 2:30 in the afternoon, with the program designed for children to attend for one to three days.
At the Industrial Gas Museum's Easter Camp, spring is celebrated with the making of new friends!
Detailed Program:
08:30 - 09:00 | Arrival
Wake up early, but no school today!
Wake up early, but no school today!
09:00 - 10:00 | Group Games
The day starts with games in the Central Courtyard! Each group, along with their supervisor, enjoys kinetic games in the outdoor areas of Technopolis, on the modern Skywalk, and in the children's playground!
The day starts with games in the Central Courtyard! Each group, along with their supervisor, enjoys kinetic games in the outdoor areas of Technopolis, on the modern Skywalk, and in the children's playground!
10:00 - 10:30 | Snack Time (provided by the organization)
Break time for a light snack to boost energy for the rest of the day! The snack includes bread with spreads, koulouri, juices, and more.
Break time for a light snack to boost energy for the rest of the day! The snack includes bread with spreads, koulouri, juices, and more.
10:30 - 11:30 | Educational Programs – Workshops
Children participate in educational programs and workshops led by artists and experienced educators.
Children participate in educational programs and workshops led by artists and experienced educators.
11:30 - 12:30 | Light Lunch
Children can enjoy the snacks they brought from home.
Children can enjoy the snacks they brought from home.
12:30 - 13:30 | Educational Programs – Workshops
The educational programs and workshops continue.
The educational programs and workshops continue.
13:30 - 14:15 | Group Games
Board games and other group games for everyone!
Board games and other group games for everyone!
14:15 - 14:30 | Departure
Educational Programs & Workshops
Wake Up!
Lively games in the factory courtyard in collaboration with the Athens Trainers team, to start the day with teamwork, speed, and fun. An experienced team of trainers, dancers, and educators organize kinetic and traditional games, ball games, and floor games for our little friends.
A Circus at Technopolis!
Dance workshop by the A(r)ct: Art can Act team. Technopolis' Skywalk, the country's first certified and perfectly safe action park, transforms into the biggest circus and invites our little friends to become acrobats, musicians, jugglers, and clowns! In this workshop of creative movement and acrobatics, children will discover what it's like to balance on their hands, throw balls in the air, make faces, create stories with their bodies, hang from ropes, and balance on a human pyramid!
Namaste
Kids yoga workshop with Konstantina Roidopoulou. Our little friends will have the opportunity to interact, express themselves creatively, and relax through comfortable and fun yoga positions (asanas). Together, we'll play and "support" each other. The workshop combines dynamic asanas (poses) with exercises and lots of play! Children are encouraged to bring their own yoga mats and wear comfortable clothes.
The Machine of Wonders
Art workshop by the Industrial Gas Museum team. The factory's steam engine, the unique invention of the Industrial Revolution, comes to life and serves as inspiration for the most colorful and swirling construction. Geometric shapes, patterns, and mechanics join forces for a fun art workshop focusing on play.
Crime at the Tower - Easter Edition
The beloved mystery game, designed by the Industrial Gas Museum team! Holy Wednesday of 1952... Something suspicious is happening at the Tower of the old gasworks factory! A terrible mystery awaits its solution in the tallest building of Technopolis. Through puzzles and hidden guilty secrets, our little friends will solve a terrible crime from 1952, using the oral testimonies of the workers and the archival material of the old gasworks factory.
Educational Programs & Workshops
Wake Up!
Lively games in the factory courtyard in collaboration with the Athens Trainers team, to start the day with teamwork, speed, and fun. An experienced team of trainers, dancers, and educators organize kinetic and traditional games, ball games, and floor games for our little friends.
A Circus at Technopolis!
Dance workshop by the A(r)ct: Art can Act team. Technopolis' Skywalk, the country's first certified and perfectly safe action park, transforms into the biggest circus and invites our little friends to become acrobats, musicians, jugglers, and clowns! In this workshop of creative movement and acrobatics, children will discover what it's like to balance on their hands, throw balls in the air, make faces, create stories with their bodies, hang from ropes, and balance on a human pyramid!
Namaste
Kids yoga workshop with Konstantina Roidopoulou. Our little friends will have the opportunity to interact, express themselves creatively, and relax through comfortable and fun yoga positions (asanas). Together, we'll play and "support" each other. The workshop combines dynamic asanas (poses) with exercises and lots of play! Children are encouraged to bring their own yoga mats and wear comfortable clothes.
The Machine of Wonders
Art workshop by the Industrial Gas Museum team. The factory's steam engine, the unique invention of the Industrial Revolution, comes to life and serves as inspiration for the most colorful and swirling construction. Geometric shapes, patterns, and mechanics join forces for a fun art workshop focusing on play.
Crime at the Tower - Easter Edition
The beloved mystery game, designed by the Industrial Gas Museum team! Holy Wednesday of 1952... Something suspicious is happening at the Tower of the old gasworks factory! A terrible mystery awaits its solution in the tallest building of Technopolis. Through puzzles and hidden guilty secrets, our little friends will solve a terrible crime from 1952, using the oral testimonies of the workers and the archival material of the old gasworks factory.
Published in
Kids Life
Tagged under
Tuesday, 14 May 2024 15:09
Summer Camp At Technopolis
Children aged 6-11 explore the wonderful world of animals through educational programs, creative games, unique workshops, and many amazing activities that will make this summer unforgettable!
Are you ready for an unforgettable summer full of adventure? The city's most beloved Summer Camp returns once again, hosted by the Industrial Gas Museum at Technopolis, City of Athens, to offer children aged 6 to 11 the coolest summer experience filled with joy, knowledge, imagination, and entertainment.
Starting Monday, June 17, and running for 4 exciting weeks (weekdays), our young friends will have the opportunity to enjoy a series of thrilling activities in the safe indoor and outdoor spaces of the Industrial Gas Museum, creating indelible memories of a unique summer "vacation" in the heart of the city!
This year, children will be inspired by the magical world of animals. Each week, they will discover creatures of all kinds through educational programs, art workshops, exploration and mystery games, theatrical games, walks to cool spots in the city, and much more!
The program is designed by the team of the Industrial Gas Museum in collaboration with cultural organizations, artists, actors, and experienced educators, promoting environmental awareness, as well as love and respect for animals.
Daily Schedule Activities begin at 08:00 AM and conclude at 04:00 PM, with each week dedicated to a unique theme from the animal kingdom, making every day special and unforgettable:
Week 1 | June 17-21 | Majestic Birds
Week 2 | June 25-28 | Prehistoric Animals
Week 3 | July 1-5 | Marine Animals
Week 4 | July 8-12 | Fantastic Creatures
Daily Schedule
08:00-09:00 | Arrival: We form groups, and the day begins!
09:00-09:30 | Group Games: The groups, along with their responsible educators, play physical games in the outdoor spaces of Technopolis to start the day in the most pleasant way!
09:30-10:30 | Educational Programs and Workshops: The groups participate in educational programs and workshops related to each week's theme, led by artists and experienced educators.
10:30-11:00 | Snack Break: A short break for a light snack to continue playing with energy.
11:00-13:00 | Educational Programs and Workshops Continue
13:00-14:00 | Cooked Lunch
14:00-14:30 | First Departure
14:00-15:30 | Movie Screenings | Group Games: We watch movies with various themes, present our activities to other groups, play board games, and relax with sensory games in the specially designed relaxation area, guided by our educators.
15:30-16:00 | Final Departure
To see the costs and the detailed program of educational activities, CLICK HERE!
Note: All events of the summer camp are in Greek!
To see the costs and the detailed program of educational activities, CLICK HERE!
Note: All events of the summer camp are in Greek!
Published in
Kids Life
Tagged under