Back to School counts down to opening day

The three-day event opens on Thursday 13 September, 2012 and runs until Saturday 15 September at the Meydan Grandstand and is designed to be a fun day out for children, while addressing key parenting issues for mums and dads.

The event will feature companies such as Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Al Ain Zoo, Yas Waterworld and Patchi chocolates.

Children will be able to try dance and gymnastics lessons, learn skateboarding techniques, enjoy storytelling, get up close and personal with real life animals and take part in an exciting treasure hunt.

Al Ain Zoo is launching its new Education Centre programme at the event and will be able to demonstrate to children and their parents about how they will bring the exotic wildlife of safaris to local schools in the UAE.

Children can sit in on bird demonstrations on the first and third day of the event along with a special showcase of turtles and hedgehogs.

Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, the new waterpark set to jet into Abu Dubai's leisure offerings later this year will launch a distinctive water safety and life orientation skills based on teamwork that encourages children to work together and enjoy the water.

For those in search of something sweet, chocolate-lovers can find Patchi, with an array of delectable treats and pint-sized Patchino chocolates, along with painting workshops for kids to bring out their inner Picasso.

Other companies offering demonstrations and fun games include Almarai, DEWA, Hertz Rent-a-Car, Tiffany Foods Ltd and Hamdan Bin Mohammed e-University.

a special family discount is also available for two adults with up to three children. Proceeds from the entry fees will be donated to Safe Center, a special needs education institution.