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The El Nino phenomenon has brought a heatwave, resulting in higher-than-average temperatures in sunny Singapore. Most families will find themselves spending more on electricity bills as Air Conditioning becomes a necessity. One of the ways to beat the heat without turning on the Air-Con is bringing your children to the swimming pools or water parks. While Wild Wild Wet and Adventure Cove come to mind, tickets range from $28 – $38, and they are in Sentosa and Pasir Ris respectively, which may be far to travel to. However, there exist some water playgrounds which are free of charge, are situated in the heartlands, and still good fun for a day out with the kids. (image credit: ) Located at Kallang Wave Mall, there is a water play area, a lazy river and a half-pipe surf zone with lifeguards present during operating hours. Within the water play area, there are a total of 5 slides, various water features and a small pool with sprinklers to keep children entertained. The water playground area is free but entrance to the lazy river and half-pipe surf zone costs $2 and $30 – $35 respectively. The compound is open from 9am to 8pm every day of the week except for Tuesdays and certain public holidays. (image credit: ) This children’s garden at Gardens By The Bay has 3 play areas, with 2 being dry and one being a water playground. In the water playground, there are water features like fountains which are motion-activated, creating a variety of water effects. There are also speakers that play upbeat tunes throughout the play area. Bathrooms, lockers and changing rooms are available as well. It is open from 9am to 7pm on Thursdays to Sundays. (image credit: ) Situated at the top of Tampines 1 mall, this wildlife-themed water playground has slides, pools and fountains for kids to have a splash in. There are hippos that spout water from their mouths and polar bear slides as well. For parents, there is also a shaded area to take shelter from the sun. Showers and changing areas are available as well. This playground is open from 4pm to 8pm on Mondays, 12pm to 8pm from Tuesday to Friday and from 10am to 8pm on weekends and public holidays. (image credit: ) Located at East Coast Park Area B, Coastal Playgrove features a water play area alongside Singapore’s tallest outdoor play feature and nature playgarden. This water playground features numerous wading pools made to look like a natural stream and is even wheelchair accessible. Toilets are also located nearby. This playground is open from 8am to 8pm on Tuesdays to Sundays and Mondays if it is a public holiday. Situated under MRT tracks, this transport-themed water playground features slides, splashing buckets, water fountains and water sprays. Although it is slightly smaller than most water playgrounds, it will keep the kids entertained. This playground is open from 10am – 2pm and 4pm – 8pm daily. (image credit: ) Measuring 3 hectares, there are different play zones throughout the compound including a large eco-pond, a sand pit and a tidal pool. There are also sluice gates that let kids control water flow and rock pools for them to wade around in. One interesting feature of the playground is its natural water treatment system that includes UV treatment. Located on the 7 floor of Causeway Point is a dinosaur-themed water playground featuring numerous slides and interactive water features such as a volcano that lights up and emits smoke. This playground is open from 10am – 9pm daily, however the playground will be closed every 2 Monday of the month for maintenance. (image credit: ) Situated amongst HDB blocks, it opened in March 2024, making this is one of the newest water playgrounds in Singapore. Featuring splash pads, fountains and jet tunnels, this community water playground is free for all to enjoy. There is also a water play area for the younger kids. This playground is open from 8am – 8pm daily with two open showering facilities. If you are intending to bring your kids for a day out, sunscreen protection is recommended. One should also consider bringing along towels and toiletries since most of the playgrounds come equipped with showers or changing rooms. For water playgrounds with pools, you may want to consider bringing along your floatation devices.