Whether it?s a half term break or even the seemingly long summer holidays, you will find plenty of things to do in Essex for kids.

The obvious place to start would be our counties fantastic coastline. With seaside destinations such as Canvey Island, Leigh on Sea, Chalkwell, Westcliff on Sea, Southend on Sea, Mersea Island, Brightlingsea, Clacton on Sea, Holland on Sea, Frinton on Sea and Walton on the Naze offering their own unique features, sights and attractions, I?m sure you?ll agree that you are spoilt for choice.

At Southend on Sea the children will love Adventure Island. The rides at the fun park fall into three groups; Big Adventure, Junior and Mini, allowing parents or guardians to easily choose which rides are suitable for their children.

If you manage to prise them away for long enough, you could take either a leisurely stroll, or train ride, up Southend?s world famous record breaking Pier.

Also available to entertain the kids is the south east?s premier aquatic attraction; Sea-life Adventure, Crazy Golf, Amusements and numerous Arcades allowing you and the children to dispose of some of that loose change that?s been weighing you down.

Further up the coast is Clacton on Sea. There you will find a pier packed full of rides for children both young and old, and for the first time in over twenty years Donkey Rides during the school holidays on the Martello Bay Beach (weather permitting of course). You may even want to relax on the beach while watching the kids building sandcastles or burying their Mum or Dad.

Don?t let bad weather stop you from getting out of the house as there are plenty more things to do in Essex for kids. Dotted across the county are various indoor play facilities allowing children of all ages to play in a fun and safe environment while the parents or guardians can relax and chat while enjoying a cup of tea or coffee and something to eat. It?s a great way for the kids to have fun for a couple of hours, burn off any excess energy and get exercise at the same time.

A visit to Rainham Marshes Nature Reserve, near to the River Thames in Purfleet, is an exciting and great way to introduce children to wildlife. They have a full programme of events being held throughout the year so you are sure to find a date suitable for your visit.

Remus Memorial Horse Sanctuary near Ingatestone aim to provide lifetime help and care for horses, ponies, donkeys, goats, sheep, pigs and cows who are victims of physical and mental abuse. The Sanctuary is situated in a beautiful part of our county which is also home to many interesting plants, wild creatures, birds, foxes and hedgehogs. There are many varied events available throughout the year and the Sanctuary makes for a great trip out for all the family.

As you can see from this brief overview of what?s available for things to do in Essex for kids, there?s lots to do when you know were to look.