SCHOOL'S out at the end of this week - and the rigours and pressures of the classroom are to be left behind.

But that doesn't mean that learning has to stop during the holidays. In fact, it's the perfect time to combine fun with learning, say childcare experts that my paper spoke to.

"Parents and children should do things together - and not just at the mall," says Mrs Carmee Lim, 68, mentor principal of education training organisation MindChamps.

Fortunately, parents can look forward to a wide variety of events and activities for their kids this June.

The Singapore Arts Festival, which opens this Friday, has Kidsfest, featuring shows and workshops dedicated to children. The National Museum also kicked off its inaugural Children's Season this month. All have the potential to be great play-and-learn experiences for kids.

And with a little effort, parents can turn almost anything into a fun, educational experience.

Assistant Professor Tzuo Pei Wen, from the Early Childhood and Special Needs Education department of the National Institute of Education, suggests letting the child come up with a problem-question to explore, then building an activity around it.

She suggests topics such as "how does a Singaporean child's life relate to people around the world?" or even current issues-related topics such as "why are gasoline prices rising?".

With parental guidance, the child can find and express his answers to these questions in various forms, from art and music, to trips to the library and the museum.

And keep an open mind, adds Professor Tzuo.

"Even an interest in Jay Chou can lead to learning about dancing and singing," she says.

Ms Karen Nicholls, 51, pre-school director of EtonHouse (Newton branch), agrees. "Reading a story about the gingerbread man can lead to cooking in the kitchen," she says.

Ms Nicholls also suggests that parents and children choose activities that everyone can enjoy - and these need not cost a bomb.

For instance, families can picnic by the beach, collect shells to make a vase and learn more about the sea together.

"Learning doesn't begin or end. It's a follow-on experience," she says.

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