THE SUMMER IS officially here and, if you have children, that means school holidays have arrived and you need more than ever to keep them occupied.

Lucky for you, there’s loads to do for children around Dublin and we’ve rounded up seven of the best things to do this week right here.

Fingers crossed the weather will be good but if not we have you covered too.

1. Dublinia

Dublinia, in Christchurch, is home to all things Viking and a great place to take the kids to for a little fun and learning.

They (and you) will learn about life in medieval Dublin by visiting a busy market place and a rich merchant’s house, and comparing that to life in Dublin in Viking times. They will get a chance to visit a Viking house, see what a history hunter gets up to, and meet Olaf the Viking Coin Minter, who will demonstrate the art of making coins.

Christchurch, Monday to Sunday, 10-6.30pm

2. Zoological museum

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Based in Trinity College, in the centre of the city, the Zoological Museum, home to extinct and endangered species, is now open at the weekend.

You can have your photo taken through the jaws of a Great White Shark, check out the 25,000 specimens or even have a look at the live insect display that was recently added.

Trinity College, Monday-Sunday 10.30-4pm

3. City Spectacular

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The City Spectacular is taking place in and around Merrion Square this weekend and promises to be quite a treat for the eyes, ears and tastebuds.

With acrobatic performers, circus tents with free workshops, and the Spark Your Imagination area which is specially designed for children, plus lots of fun and games as well as a whole street of different food vendors, you’ll have a full day on your hands. If you have a dog, you can bring it along to the PET-acular and get some pet health advice from the DSPCA.

Merrion Square, 8-10 July 

4. The Song of the Sea Exhibition

Ark Ark

The Song of the Sea is an exhibition that gives you a behind the scenes look at the making of the Oscar-nominated film of the same name. There are original storyboards, drawings, prints and animation available to check out. It’s held in the Ark in Temple Bar over the summer and open every day.

Temple Bar, 11 June – 31 August 10.30am – 5pm

5. Dublin Zoo

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Lions and tigers and bears, oh my. There’s nothing like a day at the zoo, and with a new orangutan forest open, watching the penguins being fed or checking out the rhinos, gorillas or giraffes, there will be lots to keep everyone occupied all day.

Phoenix Park, 9.30-6pm (summer opening times)

6. Summer art workshops

Source: Imma

IMMA (the Irish Museum of Modern Art) in Kilmainham hosts holiday family workshops during weekday mornings. You can visit the exhibitions and then be inspired to make your own artworks (adults and children) at the gallery.

Kilmainham, Thursday and Friday 10-11am

7. Viking Splash tour

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If you've ever walked around Dublin, ever, anywhere, you've probably been scared by the Viking Splash tour groups screaming and roaring as you go about your business.

Now you and the kids can be ones scaring the poor bewildered tourists and Dubs with your roars of glee as you drive by on your amphibious WWII vehicle, while getting a hilarious running commentary about Dublin city's history.

Have you any kids-friendly activities planned? Let us know in the comments below.

For a great day out, go to town – and get there with Luas Cross City. Come into Dublin city and enjoy everything it has to offer – from shops, bars, markets, restaurants, theatres and cultural sights. There’s something for everyone, no matter your age or interests. To find out more about what’s going on in Dublin, check out DublinTown.ie.