Amina Hoosain is the Aquarium’s membership co-ordinator. She makes sure that our Solemates stay happy.

“Fisheeeee! Here fishy fishy fisheee!”

I’m not trying to catch a yellowtail or two, I’m watching the 16h00 puppet show in the AfriSam Children’s Centre.

Some days I spend hours in front of my computer and forget there are wondrous creatures only seconds away from me … And then I hear the announcement for the 16h00 puppet show. With much anticipation I make my way to a well-deserved dose of fun and laughter.

I watch today’s puppet show together with approximately 20 four- to seven-year-olds and their parents. The children are so excited they jump up and down and their energy is infectious.

With many loud “hellos” from the kids, Peter the Penguin pops up and regales us with his adventures. Very soon Peter and his friends the Octopus, Nemo, Mr Shark and Little Fish elicit shrills of delighted laughter from everyone.

The AfriSam Children’s Centre offers daily puppet shows, a large arts and crafts station, a reading area, a ball pond for younger children and a giant sandpit, complete with buckets and spades.

The tuck shop stocks a variety of yummy snacks and beverages for you to enjoy while playing and relaxing. The play area also overlooks the penguins’ play pool where our resident rockhopper penguins and Ivan, our king penguin, take leisurely swims throughout the day.

Whenever you feel the need for an afternoon pick-me-up, visit the AfriSam Children’s Centre and become reacquainted with your inner child.

Click here for a look at the AfriSam Children’s Centre arts and crafts schedule for December and January.