Edition 61 • Jan/Feb 2017 @FamiliesManch The local magazine for families with children 0-12 years facebook.com/familiesmanchester FREE www.familiesonline.co.uk

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In this issue: > Make maths FUN! > Home alone: leaving your child in charge > Scouting: skills for life

Covering: Altrincham, Trafford, Salford, Manchester, Bolton, Bury, , Didsbury, Stockport, Cheadle, Bramhall, and surrounding areas. News News In this issue 02: News Geronimo 2017 – bigger and National Storytelling Week 04: Education better than ever! How did it feel when you found out that You’re very active on social media, do you your book is a masterpiece, but people read 08: Parents’ place Chocolat was being made into a film? think this new digital age we’re living has it and think it’s rubbish, then there’s 12: Clubs & classes I didn’t believe it at first, because books get changed the way people tell stories? probably some truth in it. However, keep optioned all the time, but very rarely do they I think it’s had an impact on the whole of believing you can do it, learn from 13: What’s on end up making films. I started to pay attention the book business in a lot of ways, some mistakes, acknowledge them and move on. when they started filming, and when they good, some bad. What it has done is given Do you have any new books or projects invited me on set, when it was clear something us more access to each other and provides that our readers can look out for? was actually happening. By then it didn’t a much more interactive side to telling I’ve got an illustrated book of the Storytime Hello! really have much to do with me, so I was stories. I tell my #Storytime stories on stories coming out, hopefully next year, called able to enjoy it in a different way. It was very Twitter, and you really feel as if you’re talking to Honeycomb. I’m also working on a sequel The older we get, the faster the years fly. We’re so busy nicely done, the cast was great, the direction people, because it’s a very conversational to The Gospel of Loki, which hopefully will watching our children grow that we get quite startled when we Kyte Photography catch a glimpse of our own aging faces in the mirror! was great, the score was great, and they medium, which is its charm. come out the year after next. I’ve also got To mark National Storytelling Week deserved the success it had. It’s National Storytelling Week in January. another illustrated project, which may or But luckily with age comes wisdom (we hope!), and the realisation that we’ve done a pretty good job so far considering (28 January – 4 February), international Do you ever meet people and think they What advice would you give to children may not come out next year. there’s no degree in parenting. Our kids are happy, loved and best-selling author Joanne Harris spoke would make a great character in a book? or adults if they have a passion for writ- Favourite childhood book(s)/author? flourishing and that’s all we can really ask for. to Families about life as a writer, how I’m borrowing from people all the time. It’s ing and want to take it to the next level? Ray Bradbury - Something Wicked This So here’s wishing you all: The ever-popular Geronimo Festival the latest tech. Geronimo guests will storytelling has evolved through social part of being a writer, using the experiences To be a professional writer you have to Way Comes 12 months of success will be back for its third year in May also be treated to two full Circuses, a media, and gives her advice for those you have with people and conversations; write, a lot, and understand that a lot of it Favourite character you’ve created? (27 – 29), promising a whole weekend Theatre Tent and a Show Ground Arena with a passion for writing stories. things you’ve noticed about them, and you will be bad but practice makes you better. The villain in Gentlemen and Players 52 weeks of laughter full of amazing acts and activities. with lots of displays including filter them through this process. I don’t think So start writing, and don’t worry too much Favourite book/story you’ve written? 365 days of fun Taking place in the stunning, motorcycles, jousting and fencing. The success of Chocolat kick-started I’ve ever actually put someone in a book, but I about where you are heading. Also read a The Gospel of Loki 8760 hours of joy expansive grounds at Arley Hall in For the active kid, there’s so much to your career as an author – was it an think we all borrow extensively from other lot, because the more you read the more Favourite writing drink? 525600 minutes of good luck Northwich, this year families will be cram in including mobile climbing easy decision to retire from teaching? people around us. you realise how writing works and why it’s Tea And 31536000 seconds of happiness able to take advantage of camping and walls, cardboard harp workshops and a Writing is generally a job that doesn’t make How long does it usually take you to good and why it fails, and just keep Favourite writing food? Happy 2017! glamping so they can enjoy a mini Bear Grylls Assault Course. In fact there a lot of money, and nearly all writers have write a book? improving all the time. Toast holiday at the event. are literally hundreds of activities to another job. For my first three published I’m usually working on more than one thing. Have you faced any challenges when The best thing about being an author? Caryl Hall Jayne Keep The ultimate family festival will play enjoy and something for kids of all ages books I was a teacher and if one of my books Some have taken me 10 years to finish, some writing books, and what did you learn Spending my life doing something I love, host to a huge array of CBeebies, CBBC (and big kids too!). hadn’t been unexpectedly successful I would only one. Some I’ve started and then finished from them? and getting it out to people who also love it. and ITV stars who will take centre stage Take advantage of the unique Early have stayed a teacher. When you reach a 5, 10 or 15 years later. I tend to start things off It’s useful to keep an open mind. There is throughout the day and be on hand to Bird offer which is available until the certain level of success it’s very difficult to and then quite often put them on the back burner no way you can please everyone all the For more information on Joanne Harris and Next issue: Mar/Apr 2017 Families Manchester is part of Families Magazines Ltd, a keep their young fans entertained. end of January with family tickets do the two things at once, so I gave up teaching. I for a bit, work on something else and then go time. Learn to live with criticism even if you her work, go to www.joanne-harris.co.uk Circulation: 25,000 copies of Families Manchester are franchise company. All franchised magazines in the This year, older children will also be available at £16.50. As a thank you to thought then temporarily, and it turned out to back. Sometimes I just need to let it lie, do think it is unfair and still do what you are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected group are independently owned and operated under ® treated to a Digital Zone where they can loyal festival goers, repeat guests will be permanent. But it could have been different. some research, or work out a plot construction. doing. If you are absolutely convinced that shops and other points throughout . licence. Families is a registered trademark of Families If you would like free copies for your organisation, Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow meet their favourite YouTubers and also be treated to a free wrist band ride please let us know. Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Manchester are fully protected by copyright Gamers as well as try their hand at all for Geronimo’s Fun Fair. Contact details: Families Manchester, and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be www.geronimofest.com 3 Hall Hill, Bollington SK10 5ED reproduced in any form without prior consent of the Dippy on tour Boutique Baby Show comes to Manchester Tel: 01625 801 801 www.familiesonline.co.uk publisher. We take every care preparing the magazine, Editorial: [email protected] but the publishers and distributors can’t be held The Manchester Macdonald Hotal & draw to win a £20 Mothercare gift card. Advertising/artwork: [email protected] responsible for the claims of advertisers, the accuracy Spa (conveniently situated next to A raffle with some fantastic prizes of the contents nor for any consequences. Should you let your child use a tablet? Events, diary dates, what’s on: [email protected] Manchester Piccadilly station, with will be held to raise funds for the baby Cover Photography: Shutterstock television – the previous day. It also asks nearby multi-story carparks) plays charities Bliss and Sands. Bliss works Design: Paul Wilson Graphic Design, Congleton. questions about how children prefer to host to the Boutique Baby Show on to provide care and support for Tel: 07743 111 694 www.withpaul.co.uk @FamiliesManch learn, what children understand about Saturday 4 & Sunday 5 February premature and sick babies and their Print: Bishops Printers, Walton Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO6 1TR other people, and whether and how (10am – 4pm), showcasing small families and Sands provides support for www.facebook.com/familiesmanchester Tel: 023 9233 4900 www.bishops.co.uk children engage in pretend play. Baby businesses and local suppliers. bereaved parents and their families. Parents of children with low activities Entry is FREE, and if you pre-register your www.boutiquebabyshows.co.uk levels, such as newborns, are also invited attendance, your details will be put into a to participate, as the researchers are Private schools to offer 10,000 free places to interested in how technology impacts children from lower-income backgrounds children right from the beginning. All The Natural History Museum’s star Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in participants will then be invited to repeat attraction, Dippy the diplodocus, is Glasgow, the Great North Museum in The Independent Schools Council (ISC) A newly-launched research project aims the survey six months later, which allows set to tour the UK for three years Newcastle, the National Assembly of Wales, says if the government pays £5,550 per to discover the influence technology has on researchers to determine whether or not from 2018. Eight carefully selected in Rochdale and place – the cost of a place in the state children’s learning, social interactions and technology has had an impact. venues nationwide have been chosen Norwich Cathedral. The exhibit will be system – the remainder of the cost will play, from birth to 47 months – and At the end of the survey, parents will to host the 70ft reconstructed free to view. be covered by the schools. parents are invited to join in. receive a summary of their child’s learning dinosaur, and it’ll take more than a A team of experts will be tasked with The ISC was responding to pressure Dr Elena Hoicka and PhD students from style, social understanding, and play. For year to prepare him for his journey. disassembling and reconstructing him from the government to do more for their the University of Sheffield’s Department of every parent who completes the survey Closest to to host the iconic at every stop and it’s estimated that 1.5 state school counterparts in return for charitable Psychology are looking to discover whether twice, six months apart, £2 will be dinosaur is Number One Riverside in Rochdale, million people will have seen Dippy by status, which allows for tax breaks. The technology, such as tablets, is good for donated to UNICEF. with the actual dates still to be confirmed. the time his tour ends in late 2020. Private schools will offer to provide scheme, which would test some children children’s development, bad, or a bit of both. It only takes around 20-30 minutes to He’ll make his first stop at the Dorset Dippy is being replaced by the real up to 10,000 free school places a year on academic ability, would be open to The survey asks questions about how register and complete the survey. To sign County Museum in February 2018, skeleton of a blue whale at the Natural to children from low-income families primary and secondary school-age children. long children used different types of up or read more, go to followed by Ulster Museum, the History Museum from January 2017. in . technology – such as a tablet or a www.babylovesscience.com. 2 Families Manchester | www.familiesonline.co.uk Families Manchester | www.familiesonline.co.uk 3 Education Education How to create an after school routine that works for your child How to make maths fun for kids By Vidya Patil, Manchester Child Therapy (www.kidsattitudemanchester.nlp4kids.org)

calculating the change they should progress, you can begin to make their • Introverted: He may be exhausted need space. Ask a few questions, but receive when they buy an ice cream to home learning more formalised. There by being with his classmates all day. be ok with delaying the conversation keeping score in a friendly game of are any number of online maths Let him be quiet. Keep questions to a until your child has a chance to relax, football, everyday maths really is resources available and your school minimum, giving him time to talk when exercise or have a snack. everywhere! may encourage at-home use of a he is ready. Allow time for him to be • Introverted: You need some time to Make tech and tables count programme like Mathletics to challenge alone, rest or do an individual activity. yourself after work, but keep in mind There are numerous maths apps and reinforce skills learned in the • Techie: She may run to the iPad your child may need to connect with available for children of all ages, from classroom. These online resources immediately after coming in the door, you right away after school. Wait a few simple counting games to more usually feature progressive levels so you so set limits around technology in minutes before coming in the door or advanced calculations. Doodle Maths can easily track your child’s progress advance. Decide what tasks need to set a timer for a 10 minute check-in and Mr Thorne’s Maths Universe should but do check before you sign up to a done before using technology; then set with your child. get even committed young mathphobes paid programme that it’s compatible a time limit. • Techie: You want to connect with your practising their numeracy on their with the National Curriculum. Although • Active: After being cooped up in a kids, but your work or social media has tablets and smartphones. Percy Parker it’s easy to assume that children will What’s your after school routine like? Things to remember classroom all day, he wants to run! Allow time your attention. Turn off the computer, Sing Your Times Tables and Squeebles prefer working on the computer, many How do you and your child make 1. Smile for him to exercise before completing put your phone on “do not disturb.” If Times Tables are both excellent apps for also enjoy age-appropriate workbooks, the transition from school to home? 2. Make Eye Contact homework. Engage in an activity needed, set a timer to help you focus embedding times tables in young with stickers to reward their progress. Some children fly out the classroom 3. Lead with something other than a together – he may be more willing to talk on your kids rather than checking brains. Why not try singing along with Learn with and from your children door with smiles and cheers of “freedom!” question about homework about his day while playing with you. emails or returning calls. Percy Parker on your next long car As the family maths toolkit points out, Other children wait until they get home 4. Focus on the effort, improvement or • Explosive: He’s worked hard to remain • Busy: You don’t know how to fit it Numeracy targets are fundamental online like the family maths toolkit from journey? For older children facing their maths is not a can or cannot subject, and then explode like a volcano. accomplishment rather than the grade calm and follow the classroom rules all in. Create a transition that works to both the National Curriculum and national numeracy or the ‘Maths for end of primary school tests, ensure that but something we can all improve, And then there’s you. You’ve had a received during the day. Take a few deep breaths with what you are already doing. Have to primary school testing and that Mums and Dads’ books by Mike Askew they know not just the multipliers but however old we are. When your children crazy day at work and school pick-up is 5. Ask open-ended questions before he comes home. Offer a snack “Special Snack Tuesdays” on the way can seem as intimidating to you as and Rob Eastaway. the divisors too, up to 12 x 12. start to bring home maths homework, just the start of a stressful afternoon of If your child is right away. Stay positive, and limit the to piano. Skip to the car after daycare. to your child. But there are some Maths by stealth Try gamification take the opportunity to learn about new taxiing the children to clubs, followed • Extroverted: She may be energized by number of directions and corrections Talk in the car for 5 minutes before simple strategies you can put in There are plenty of ways you can In other words, get out some old maths concepts from them and show by a night of nagging about homework. being with her classmates all day. Let you give. football. Or check-in at bed time. place that can make maths more incorporate maths into everyday life, fashioned board games. Children learn them real world examples of how to put Sound familiar? Here are a few her do the talking, your job is to listen. If you are fun and less daunting. The way the which is an excellent way of letting best when an activity is fun, and they’re those skills into practice – by checking tips to make your after school routine Let her know that you’re listening by • Extroverted: You want to know For many children, heading home from subject is taught in schools has children know how important numeracy usually unaware that they’re learning your shopping or phone bill. Encourage smooth and positive! making eye contact, inserting “Oh!” or everything about their day! Take into school is a very important part of their day, changed fundamentally over the skills are outside of the classroom. Next through playing games. Dominoes is an them to contextualise a newly acquired “Tell me more!” while she is talking. consideration that your child may so make sure you creating a routine that’s past few years so, who knows? time you have a cake or a pizza, ask excellent game for practising basic skill by putting it into practice around right for you and your unique child. You may end up learning something them to divide it into quarters or thirds maths concepts, as is Snakes and the home, whether it’s telling you the new, too! or an even number of portions for the Ladders. They’ll be having too much fun time their favourite TV show comes on number of people eating it. Baking isn’t to notice they’re adding and subtracting or estimating how long their bath takes Do your homework just a pleasurable activity to do with and recognising basic number patterns. to run. And always praise their effort Before you can support your child’s your kids, it’s one of the very best ways For older children, Monopoly introduces rather than their talent, to reinforce the maths learning at home, you’ll need to of embedding the importance of more sophisticated numeracy skills and message that by working hard anyone find out about the way they learn maths weights and measures. They’ll also Scrabble is a brilliant way to practise can improve their maths skills. at school. Do some homework on need to keep an eye on the clock to both numeracy and literacy. Board modern maths methods like number know when their goodies are ready to games are also valuable for introducing To find out more about helping your lines and gridding, and find out whether come out of the oven. Meanwhile, every related concepts like strategy, logic and child learn visit: your child’s school offers maths support time you go to the shops, encourage reasoning skills into the mix. www.familiesonline.co.uk/education classes for parents. If not, there are them to add as they go and then make Make it more formal some excellent resources available their best estimate of the final bill. From As your children’s maths skills

Ensuring a strong foundation in maths and English

The tutoring market in the UK is maths GCSEs if they did not score a C burgeoning. Figures published at the grade, and with just 35.9% of school end of last year suggest that one in leavers achieving a C or above, the four children have sought private overall pass rate has dropped. tuition and supplementary education Kumon Educational offers maths and to support them at school. English programmes for children of all The benefit of reinforcing lessons at ages and abilities. The ultimate aim is school with an outside provider is that to encourage students to take learning it allows parents to ensure their child is into their own hands and develop a keeping up with their peers, and/or is firm foundation in these key subjects to being stretched to surpass levels in the ensure success at school and beyond. classroom. Visit Kumon.co.uk or call For the first time this year, Year 11 0800 854 714 to find out more. pupils are required to resit English and

4 Families Manchester | www.familiesonline.co.uk Families Manchester | www.familiesonline.co.uk 5 Education Education Take the fear out of exams in 2017 The benefits of mindfulness in children

Here are a few of Explore for your child, with their input, and friends or even anxieties related to changing from studying, as even 10 minutes’ Learning’s top tips: create a plan to suit their individual need. or starting new schools, these pressures practice can provide great clarity and Plan ahead – This is the key to Positive thinking - Finally, be sure to are simply no good for our children. help to re-focus the mind. kick-starting any successful exam remain positive throughout exam With this in mind it’s no surprise that Many practitioners are encouraging preparation. Blocking out periods of preparations and praise them when you teachers, carers and parents are looking schools and parents to practise time to ‘cram’ for an exam might save see them accomplish something great: towards proven methods of mindfulness to mindfulness with their children due to time but it won’t assist your child’s hearing things like “brilliant reading” or protect and nurture their youngsters’ the plethora of proven benefits to all. retention of information long term. “you’ve done a fantastic job explaining mental and general wellbeing. For instance, Susan Kaiser Greenland Revisiting a range of subject areas in that method to me” will undoubtedly Some children find short yoga routines has published a study named “Mindful manageable, weekly chunks can be build their self-belief. at the start or end of their day a great way Revolution in Education”. This informative much more beneficial to supporting Explore Learning is able to support to clear their mind and relax, as well as stay piece goes into more detail on the ways in memory, skills, and confidence. both you and your child from day one. in tune with their mind and bodies. These which mindfulness programs for children Find the right way for your child - It As well as tailored maths and English sorts of activities are perfect for all ages, can help create a more compassionate, is important to understand that everyone tuition from their expert staff, they run from very young children to the elderly. calmer youngster with good practices. learns and revises in their own way. relevant workshops and parent Children who are undertaking exams For more information, visit: We all know that the lead up to exam said exam results are important to their Some children like to visualise their information evenings for their families may find yoga a much-needed break www.familiesonline.co.uk/wellbeing season can be a daunting and stressful child’s future, only 1 in 4 parents felt work so sticky notes around the house throughout the year so that everyone time for child and parent. their child’s exam performance actually and visual representations might be feels as confident as possible at home, The past two decades have seen an and how to develop a positive outlook on With children encountering phonics reflects their true ability, and 2 in 3 useful, whereas others will respond especially when exams are around the abundance of research, and hundreds life with mindfulness skills. Children can screening checks, teacher assessments parents admitted that their child has better to you asking them questions and corner! of studies conducted, about the increasingly learn vital stress-relieving skills such as and SATs by the time they reach the end suffered from exam stress. to explain a paragraph in their own For more advice and top tips to popular practice of mindfulness. Countless breathing techniques, mindful hearing and of primary school, you might wonder Although there is no magic formula words. Some children will switch on support your child’s exam preparation results of said studies have shown a great listening. If children struggle with an how best to support your child through for exam success, there are many ways bright and early, while others will be this year, and to book your free trial at increase in stress, so much so that some emotion or getting angry they can revert exams - and you certainly aren’t alone! to help children feel prepared and ready to learn later on in the day. Find your local centre, visit Fortune 500 companies in the US for to mindfulness techniques to learn how to In a recent, independent study by Explore confident about assessments. the learning style and pattern that works www.explorelearning.co.uk. instance, have even employed mindfulness deal with, and control, those emotions. Learning, while 90% of British parents coaches to benefit their employees. Mindfulness and autism, ADHD and ADD Specific programs for businesses around The Autism Research and Treatment study the globe have been created for their employees undertaken by Sequeira is a piece of to help reduce stress, keep employees’ research that supports the notion that minds fresh and focused and in turn able mindfulness meditation has a great positive to perform better at work and of course be effect on children with autism. To be mindful Reception information happier and healthier from the inside out. helps one keep focused in a precise moment. But, just what is mindfulness? And does it Taking medication for autism, ADHD or ADD morning at MHSG have the same positive effect on younger does not have long-term benefits, however, children, specifically those between the mindfulness can help long term given it is ages of three and 11? practised daily and part of one’s lifestyle, What is mindfulness? not only for children but also for adults. In short, mindfulness is a simplistic program Parents and/or carers who look after children of meditative activities. It is a simple, yet with such disorders can often find themselves powerful observation free from criticism dealing with stress, so things such as and is a new and improved way of seeing meditation and mindful thinking can help what is happening to us in our lives. Although reduce the effects of stress, thus enabling very effective once learnt, mindfulness does them to deal with situations in a calmer, Manchester High School for Girls’ through the Preparatory Department. of course not rid you of everyday more helpful way, to themselves and children. Preparatory Department is an active and Beyond the classroom, teaching is problems and pressures, yet it does, Some of those with autism suffer from happy place to learn, where girls aged four enhanced through a wide range of however, provide you with the tools and psychological imbalances, such as lack of to 11 enjoy every aspect of school life. extra-curricular activities. The After-School mindset needed to handle them in a rhythm. Children who struggle with this can Dedicated staff support and inspire pupils to Club provides a high standard of activities calmer way. This calmer way has been have difficulty when trying to balance the achieve their full potential, enabling them to be and care, and is available every weekday on said to benefit not only your mind but also inner and outer world, which can result in independent and to think for themselves. Girls a regular or occasional basis. your heart and body, thus providing an issues with interaction or distorted relationships. are encouraged to develop high aspirations, and Girls leave Manchester High’s improved way of life and a greater sense of One area of mindfulness that may benefit their achievements are celebrated in all forms. Preparatory Department as dynamic, clarity and focus. these children is Mantra Meditation. This Girls experience a wide-ranging curriculum motivated, independent learners, equipped How can mindfulness help young type of meditation is all about repetition, such and benefit from excellent resources. with the confidence and skills to thrive children? as repeating a sound or repeating a movement Stimulating lessons are complemented in the Senior School. Extensive research has shown that or word. It’s this calm and harmonising by visiting speakers and educational trips. Drop in on Friday 10th February mindfulness can help children between meditation that can help to restore the Girls take a lively and enquiring interest in (9.30am – 10.30am) to find out about the ages of three and 11. If we take a look child’s sense of rhythm. reading and current affairs and develop a their Preparatory Department, meet at the developmental changes that occur Can mindfulness help your child natural curiosity and understanding of the Reception class teachers and have a within children, the physical changes and thrive at school? world around them. look around the infants’ facilities. events such as starting school, socialising, It’s a sad and somewhat worrying fact that The qualities of kindness, respect, loyalty, Visit www.manchesterhigh.co.uk or and simply learning about life, it makes more and more children are feeling the tenacity, self-discipline and a sense of call the Registrar on 0161 224 0447 to perfect sense to equip youngsters with stress and pressure of school life. With a self-worth grow during each child’s journey find out more. tools on how to deal with their emotions, push to succeed academically, to make 6 Families Manchester | www.familiesonline.co.uk Families Manchester | www.familiesonline.co.uk 7 Parents’ place Parents’ place

When should you leave your child home alone? The little guide to little bilingual brains By Dr Evelyne Mercure simply can’t cope with being left alone Make a checklist then you’ll need to make other arrangements. If you and your child decide that they’re Infants and young children have an controlling their own thoughts may It might be a good idea to decide on than mum and/or dad. Children will But when they reach the age of 12, you responsible enough to be left home impressive capacity for learning lead to a ‘bilingual advantage’ in a language to be used at home. One also learn a lot from other children, could experiment with leaving them for alone, perhaps after school while you’re languages. They are curious, very certain cognitive tasks. parent may decide to use one especially older ones. They will want a short amount of time. If you do, make still at work, then work together on a eager to communicate and their brains 4. Mastering two languages will give language when addressing their to speak like them and adopt their sure you’ve thoroughly discussed the checklist that covers both your concerns. are designed for fast learning. Bilingual children a better understanding child, while the other parent will use accent and expressions. Cousins who kind of behaviour you expect from them • Double check that they’re happy to be families have an interesting opportunity of their family’s cultural background. a different language. Think of the are not fluent in your child’s – like not boiling a kettle – and that they left alone: it may be that they’d feel of making the most of these early learning The most unique aspects of a culture language(s) you want to use when dominant language, for instance, know exactly what to do if there’s a happier if a neighbour looked in on capacities in teaching their children always risk getting lost in translation. reading to your child or singing to may become excellent role models problem. Take your mobile and make them from time to time. two languages from birth. There are For this reason, being bilingual helps them. The more exposure your child and a very good source of motivation. sure they have the number, plus a list of • Set some ground rules: your child may several interesting advantages to children become ‘bicultural’, making will get in one language, the more trusted adults to contact if they can’t be as worried as you are about the raising bilingual children. them more aware of cultural fluent they are likely to become in Offering a bilingual environment to your reach you. If you have more than one responsibility of being left in charge. differences and more likely to take that language. child is a richness they will benefit from Over the past few years there has rarely mature enough to cope with an child, make sure they’re engaged in a • Agree what’s safe and not safe to do: 1. Bilingualism does not cause part in two cultures. 3. Keep it fun. Your child’s motivation all their life. They may not only learn been huge debate around when emergency. Therefore they should not be calm activity, like watching TV or doing you might be happy for them to visit a language delays. Bilingual children to learn each of their languages will two languages, but also a new way of children should be left home alone. left alone in the house for any length of homework so squabbles and problems friend or have a friend to visit. usually learn two languages at the same Every family and every child is make a huge difference to their thinking about cultural diversity. Do not Knowing when your growing child is time. Children under 16 should not be are less likely to occur. • Be clear that mentioning you’re home pace as monolingual children are learning different. There are a million different achievement. A child may find it be afraid of making the most of their responsible enough to be left alone, even left alone overnight. Are they ready to be in charge? alone on social media is not a cool idea. one. For example, bilinguals say their first ways of raising bilingual children and unpleasant if they feel constantly incredible language learning abilities! for a short time, can be difficult and there Leaving a child alone in the car Some children actively enjoy showing • Let them know when you’ll be home: words and start combining words into the most important is to find a way tested and criticised when speaking. is no law that governs when this might be Children should never be left alone in the how grown up they are, but it’s wise to leave a number where you can be sentences at the same age as monolinguals. that feels right for your family. Here The main focus should be on what is About the author: appropriate. For parents, in the absence car. Stranger danger is an ever present run through a few scenarios to reassure contacted, and let them know you’ll Bilinguals may sometimes appear to are a few tips that can help making being said and not how it is being said. Evelyne Mercure studied Speech & of any hard and fast rules, knowing when issue for young children – however well yourself how they might genuinely cope inform them if you’re delayed in any way. know less words than monolinguals, but these decisions for your family. 4. Find role models. One way of Language Pathologies, Neuroscience it’s the right time to allow your children you teach them, young children can act in an emergency. Try asking them what • Check in every now and again: give this is usually because their vocabulary keeping their motivation up, may be and Psychology. She is currently an more responsibility can be tricky. quite differently when something tempting they’d do in a power cut, or if the them a call to check that they’re OK. is divided between two languages. 1. Maximise face-to-face to involve people who are not fluent ESRC fellow at UCL Institute of Cognitive What the law says is apparently on offer. Leaving a toddler bathroom flooded. What if they’re • Put potentially dangerous objects out 2. Learning two languages encourages communication. From the first days in your child’s dominant language. Neuroscience, investigating the impact The Government’s advice is to follow NSPCC in the car runs the risk of them wandering hungry or a stranger knocks at the door? of harm’s way before you leave. children to think about languages. of life, babies love making eye This may encourage them to use a of language experience on infants’ brain guidelines, although you are advised off into traffic or a busy car park. And no Have the conversations for a few Young monolinguals might struggle contact and hearing their loved ones language they are less comfortable and cognitive development. She is also never to leave your child alone when they child is safe from the risk of another car minutes at a time, to try and gauge how Knowing when the right time to leave to recognise that ‘caterpillar’ is a bigger speak, vocalise and sing. Face-to- in. It will also show them that this the proud mum of three bilingual children. are ‘at risk’ and you may be prosecuted crashing into yours, even when your car they’d react. Remember, you don’t have your child alone is never easy, but through word than ‘whale’ because they find face communication is the motor of language is spoken by people other for neglect if you leave an unsupervised is stationary. to leave them alone at home if you don’t planning and good communication you it difficult to dissociate a word from its language learning and early child ‘in a manner likely to cause Leaving your child home alone want to, but sometimes the situation is can both enjoy peace of mind. meaning. Bilingualism attracts experience is key. Making sure you unnecessary suffering or injury to health.’ This is far trickier to navigate as growing unavoidable so you’ll need to know how they children’s attention to language itself, talk to your baby as much as The NSPCC guidelines state that babies, children begin to want their independence might cope. By having these conversations, For more information about keeping your making children more aware of the possible, and involving your child in toddlers and young children should never, from their parents. The important thing to you can work towards a plan of action if child safe visit: sounds, words and regularities in languages. as much conversation as possible under any circumstances, be left alone remember, in the absence of a clear legal you do need to leave your child in the www.familiesonline.co.uk/wellbeing This gives them a head start in school will lead to better abilities in one, two and that children under the age of 12 are framework, is your child’s wishes. If they house alone. when learning phonics or grammar rules. or more languages. 3. Bilingualism might make your 2. Have a plan. It is important to think child better at multi-tasking or about what ‘bilingualism’ means for I Do Not Eat the Colour Green, by Lynne Rickards listening to someone speaking in your family. Would you like your Books to inspire picky eaters This fun, engaging book is ideal for young fussy eaters. a noisy environment. When child to have a basic understanding Showcasing the tale of Marlene McKean; this story is all speaking one of their languages, of another language? Are you hoping Feed your fussy eater’s imagination with these clever and humorous books about how little Marlene absolutely hates the colour green! bilinguals must inhibit the impulse to for your child to be fluent in two which will inspire even the pickiest of children to start exploring the use words in their other language. To languages? Or read and write in two wonderful world of food. Good luck! achieve this task, they activate parts different languages? Make sure you Monsters Don’t Eat Broccoli, by Barbara Jean Hicks and Sue Hendra of their brain involved in cognitive provide plenty of experience for your Bread and Jam for Frances, by Russell Hoban In this stunning picture book the monsters insist that they don’t control. This extra practice at child to achieve each of these goals. This lovely book tells the story of Frances who loves bread and eat broccoli; despite the fact the tractors and rocket ships look jam so much she eats it at every single meal! At least that’s until EXACTLY like broccoli! Maybe vegetables aren’t so bad after all? she realises what else she’s missing...This charming tale will keep parents and kids entertained! Tea Time for Pirates, by Richard Dungworth Packed with fantastic rhymes and funny illustrations, this book Green Eggs and Ham, by Dr Seuss is a perfect story for picky eaters. Telling the tale of how Captain This fantastic story teaches little ones that you never know Cutlass convinces his crew that sausages, carrots, mash and whether you like something or not until you’ve tried it! With Dr peas will make them big and strong! Seuss’ unique combination of funny rhymes and cool characters, this book will be a delightful read for both adults and children. I Will Not Ever Never Eat a Tomato, by Lauren Child Little Lola is a really picky eater; she won’t eat peas, carrots, Oliver’s Vegetables, by Vivian French mushrooms, eggs or sausages - and most definitely NOT This book is aimed at parents with a picky eater at the dinner tomatoes! Well, until her brother Charlie explains to her that table! This story tells the tale of young Oliver who loves chips so actually peas are small green drops from Greenland and carrots much that he refuses to eat anything else! Well, until this grand- are orange twiglets from Jupiter - this fun-filled book will keep your kids entertained father plays a game with him where he must eat every vegetable and you never know; they may even start to eat their veg! he finds in the garden! For more amazing books for your kids, visit www.familiesonline.co.uk/bookclub 8 Families Manchester | www.familiesonline.co.uk Families Manchester | www.familiesonline.co.uk 9 Parents’ place Parents’ place

at least a day to buy and make the food and Activity party (eg bowling, makeover, There are lots of different games you A Birthday to remember then there’s clearing up afterwards. drama, trampolining) 20% discount at Oxygen Play it safe can play too – no matter what your age By Robina Cowan Tip: under-threes are too young for Pros: popular with 7-10s, who are too cool or skill level. games or magic shows, but if you want for puppets but still need to be entertained. Freejumping! Remember the good old days when Try regular Kurby, Kurby rounders to push the boat out, music and face The activity can create the going home present. you could play ball games safely in (mixture of rounders and dodgeball), painting go down well. Cons: when you write the invitations, quiet streets? Do you remember the Kurby stepup and Kurby knockout, to Party in a hall remember not everyone shares your child’s game Kerby (also known as Curby or name but a few. Pros: the mess is not at home! You could passions. She may adore streetdance but Curb Ball)? Well it’s back! And it’s Two base units plus the ball and invite the whole class and have a magician will some friends mob it up? better than ever as it’s now portable, grass fixings cost £40 and as they’re or a dance party (check the venue’s Sleepovers environmentally friendly (made in the heavy duty and hard wearing (designed rules on noise), a bouncy castle or soft Pros: inexpensive and hugely popular, UK from recycled PVC) and designed to be either fixed temporarily to grass or play equipment. Many halls are used by especially with those into double figures. by Manchester dad of two, Paul East! permanently to parks or playgrounds), playgroups during the week. You can often Cons: ration sweets and veto violent video Great fun for all the family, Kurby® you know they’re made to last. DIY or the full shebang? hire the toys and equipment for a small fee. games or you’ll have tiaras and tantrums can be played safely anywhere – in the To find out more, and to order, go to Leisure centre package, Cons: large parties and big rooms can all night long. Keep an eye on the action: I garden, at the park, school or beach. www.kurby.co.uk experience day or all round to be overwhelming for little people. Do hire have lost my nerve since a seven year-old yours? When you’re planning some professional entertainment. You start and his friends decided to pee into balloons your child’s celebration, factors out grumbling about the cost; by the end of and make ‘water bombs’. Perhaps you should to take into consideration the party, you’re kissing their feet. dig out that old baby listening device? Oxygen Freejumping, Manchester’s a bouncing time as you defy gravity on include your child’s age and Tip: if you’re short on helpers, visit Tip: don’t forget the golden rule: invite more Favourite trampoline park, is set to make the mega airbags! Take on the Oxygen interests, the size of your www.familiesonline.co.uk to find than four children and at least one will be sick. your family time soar this year with a Allstars at dodgeball, battle your house (and credit card limit), manpower. Childminders, au pairs or Experience days great offer on 1-hour jumping sessions friends on the speed reaction walls and and your stamina levels. Here nursery nurses are often willing to help Pros: a brilliant solution when they have for Families Manchester readers! practice your super slamming skills are some pros and cons to out at babysitting rates. outgrown parties and you have outgrown Oxygen Freejumping is the place on the basketball hoops. If it involves help you work out what type Leisure centre or indoor playzone sleepovers, but you still want a special where you can jump, flip, leap, play Freejumping fun, they’ve got it covered! of party would suit you best. package celebration with lasting memories. and soar to your heart’s content. Unlike Plus, exclusively for Families Home party Pros: a really cost-effective, stress-free Cons: cost means this will probably be a other trampoline parks it has multiple Manchester readers, you can save Pros: the DIY approach is great way to put on a party. Some deals include solo event, or a day shared with just one different jumping zones, so whether 20% if you use code FAMILYTIME for babies and toddlers – adults venue, entertainment, food and party bags friend. Ooh, the politics! you’re a superstar flipper or a bouncing when booking! Get ready to make usually outnumber the children. all-in. There’s no clearing up, just pick up Tips: Into the Blue and Experience Days beginner you’ll be in for a treat at some memories with the whole Cons: not necessarily the cheap your over-excited child and the presents, offer a good range of children’s activities Oxygen Freejumping! family at Oxygen Freejumping. Visit option you might imagine, and head home. including scuba diving, segwaying, and The whole family is welcome to have oxygenfreejumping.co.uk to book. especially if you go for an Cons: some offer such a good deal that supercar or rally driving experiences. entertainer. You need plenty of the whole class is there every weekend – www.intotheblue.co.uk room, tables and chairs. It takes sometimes twice in one day! www.experiencedays.co.uk

How to beat the January blues Add a bird book and they can pass a few hours their say - you can only talk when holding identifying and logging the birds that come the stick - so, for larger families, this could you may even inspire them to try writing to visit. Just make sure they wrap up warm! be an ideal way for your kids to create something their own story! Fun in the snow that will ensure they’re heard. Family Bake-Off Of course, snow in January isn’t guaranteed, but Look to the heavens Who doesn’t love the Great British Bake Off? if it does snow you have the ideal excuse to wrap On a clear night, there’s nothing better than Those grey January days offer the perfect up warm and organise snowman building wrapping up warm and heading outside to opportunity to get into the kitchen and bake contests and a monster snowball fight. Kids stargaze. Download an app and see how many up a storm. Let younger children indulge in of all ages love playing in the snow, but have you constellations you can find and identify. Younger some messy play with their own bowl of ever played tug of war? Or tried snowball children will enjoy spotting stars and older Once the excitement of Christmas is over cake mix or a piece of pastry - don’t get dodgeball? Once that snowman is built, try ones can test their astronomical knowledge. and gone, it can often feel like a real struggle stressed about the mess but enjoy a real frisbeeing a hat onto his head or play a game Have a tech-free day for the whole family to keep things fresh opportunity to spend some creative time of pin the nose on the snowman using a carrot. Be brave and ban iPads, smartphones and and lively at the beginning of a new year. together in the kitchen. For older children, And everyone can join in a simple game of tag, games consoles for the day. Instead put out a However, there are so many opportunities encourage some healthy competition by made a little more interesting if you’re only pile of blank paper, pens and craft materials and for you to do things together as a family going ‘full Bake off’ and seeing who can allowed to use the footprints of the other players! see what your children can create. Boredom - both indoors and out - that you’ll produce the best cookies or cupcakes. Create rock pets can be the best motivator for creativity. soon banish the January blues! Get creative in the garden The best way to blow away the cobwebs during Revive the art of den building Outdoor crafts are a wonderful way to liven January is to take the family for a long winter For younger children, provide blankets, Here are a few ideas to keep in mind… up the garden for pennies, using materials walk. It’s great exercise, but it’s even more boxes and furniture indoors and encourage A family read-in you can find outdoors or simply lying around fun if you make your walk an excuse to collect older children to get outdoors and get den When it’s blowing a gale outside, there’s no the house. It’s amazing how ice, berries and items for some winter crafting. building in the garden or the woods. Find better way to spend an afternoon than snuggled watercolours or food colourings can transform Find a talking stick out who’s the Bear Grylls of the family and up with a good book. For younger children tap water into beautiful ice baubles to decorate Another interesting find on your walk might who can create the best fantasy castle/ you can encourage them to act out the story the garden when set in interesting moulds. be a stick that transforms, with the help of spaceship/dragon’s belly. Den building is and show off your full range of funny faces and Or spread peanut butter all over the outside some beads, feather, paint and markers into a for everyone, so get involved! voices. For older children, take the opportunity of an empty toilet roll holder or that piece wish stick for younger children or a talking to discuss what they’re reading in some depth of over crunchy toast, then roll in birdseed stick for the older members of your tribe. For more ideas on keeping the kids – talk about plot and characters and why they to create an instant feeder that the kids can Talking sticks have a long history in tribal active visit: enjoy a particular type of book. Who knows, hang near the kitchen or living room window. cultures as a way of allowing everyone to have www.familiesonline.co.uk/activities 10 Families Manchester | www.familiesonline.co.uk Families Manchester | www.familiesonline.co.uk 11 Clubs & classes What’s on

Daily until Sat 1 April Weekends in Jan & Feb Scouting: skills for life are similar to the Duke of Edinburgh awards push themselves. I think the fact that we Are YOU looking for a new Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Salford Museum & Art Gallery and impressive for CVs. As well as physical currently have over 450,000 members Puppet Masters Exhibition with Aardman Studios Creation Station challenges and new skills, these top awards shows that the movement is more popular A fascinating behind–the–scenes insight into the 12 – 4pm / Younger children / Free. Get creative at challenge or direction in 2017? world of stop motion animation, this free exhibition the creation station! A different activity each week. require commitment to a charity, and the Queen than ever and is providing a lot of opportunity features puppets, props and production artwork from 0161 778 0800 / herself does the presentation. Quite an honour! for young people. Membership is growing, titles including, Wallace and Gromit, The Pirates! In www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk Do you still go away on camps? so that proves that the scouts are enjoying an Adventure with Scientists! and Timmy Time, and will tell the story of how each character is brought to Sat 7 Jan, Sat 4 Feb & Sat 4 Mar Oh yes. Camps and nights away are a big part themselves and that’s not bad for an organi- the screen. 0161 912 5616 / , Stockport of the scouting experience and they are open sation that’s over a hundred years old, but www.watersideartscentre.co.uk Saturdays at the Hall to the boys and girls of all ages. It’s a great still meeting the needs of today’s kids. 1pm – 3pm / Age 4+ / £1pp, drop in (limited Mondays in Jan & Feb places). A fun family craft activity in the brand new chance for them to learn some independence A hundred years old? The Place at Platt Lane, Fallowfield learning room in the Visitor Centre. and to fit in living and working alongside others. Yes, we’ve hit our centenary year and there’s Childrens Craft Club 0161 474 2020 / www.stockport.gov.uk As they get older, the camps get more been a lot to celebrate. We formed Cub100 4.30 – 5.30pm / Ages 5 – 11 (under 8s accompanied) Arts & Crafts activities facilitated by an experienced Sat 7 Jan & Sat 11 Feb adventurous and we do overseas expeditions to commemorate 100 years of Cub scouting youth worker and supported by volunteers. , Stockport as well. This way we meet up with scouts and have held events all over the country. We’re For more information contact Michelle Wright on Early Birds from other countries, which is a brilliant actually the largest mixed youth organisation 0161 227 1283 or Doors open 9am, Crafts 9.15 – 11am / Free entry, £2 for crafts. Enjoy the museum at a quiet time and The image of kids spending lots of time achievements are an inspiration to the boys chance to make new friends, have fun and in the UK today. Not bad for a movement e–mail [email protected] www.theplaceonline.co.uk take part in a different craft activity each month. Staff outdoors, getting heaps of fresh air and and girls, and he has definitely made scouting see that they are a part of something bigger. that was established in 1907. I think it shows How would YOU like to own your own there myself…it’s a great way to earn on hand to start the machinery and talk about the exercise while learning life skills as they cool. We now go right the way through from Does it cost a lot to become a scout? we have really moved with the times and are business, running colourful art money whilst working around the kids and Wednesdays in Jan & Feb exhibits. Suitable for children and adults with autism, go seems quaintly nostalgic now. There age 6 to 25 and offer a huge range of activities. I’d say it’s surprisingly cheap compared to providing a valuable outlet for our members. classes for babies and children? with an ARTventurers franchise there are , Salford their families and companions Once upon a Time 0161 474 2487 / www.stockport.gov.uk is, however, a great British institution The uniform has been updated and is really a lot of other children’s activities. We have The transformation in the last fifteen years Are you enthusiastic, creative, great with lots of different income streams available 9.45am / £1 per child that still promotes and encourages those practical, modern and comfortable for both sexes. an annual subscription charge, and that varies has been quite remarkable. That translates people (big and small!) and unafraid of a to our franchisees.” Discover what’s behind the doors of Ordsall Hall with Thurs 12 & 26 Jan, values, while incorporating the Tell us more about the activities a bit depending on where in the country you to thousands of kids all over the UK getting bit of mess? “We offer a bumper franchise package, a different activity each week such as storytelling, crafts or music. 0161 872 0251 / Thurs 2 & 16 Feb Bramall Hall, Stockport realities of twenty-first-century living, It’s still based on the model of working towards are, but the average is somewhere between involved in masses of different activities every If the answer to all of these questions is TONS of support and we already have 22 www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk Bramall Hall Babies – Sensory Stories like IT skills and PR. We spoke to Proficiency badges, which has been proven £50 and £100. That doesn’t include things like week. And that’s not including the camps a big YES then ARTventurers would love to franchisees running classes in all different 11.30am – 12.15pm / non–walking babies / £6 per Helly Hansen Watersports Centre, Salford Gareth Huxtable, a former scout and to be a great system for application and camps, as obviously there are extra costs and trips. chat to you! locations across the country which is fab! baby (max two accompanying adults free), booking Climbing Club essential. A sensory story and play session. Listen Scout Leader, about Scouting and what reward. There is something for everyone to involved in transport, food and accommo- So it’s not all about woggles and knots Founded in 2011 by mum of two Fiona However we don’t yet have an ARTventurers 6.30pm / Adult £6.50, Junior £5. Come and to tales of Billy the Bear, Dottie the Dizzy Dragon or it can offer to today’s youngsters. work towards and achieve. We’ve got the dation for trips away. The only other outlay is anymore? Simpson, ARTventurers run award winning branch in the Manchester and surrounding challenge yourself and keep fit by climbing up the 8 a surprise story! metre high indoor climbing wall. Save when you buy old favourites like map reading and first aid, for the uniform, but there is no need to buy all We still have a woggle but, as I said before, art classes for babies, toddlers and areas and so we are looking to award new Bramall Hall Babies – Tudor Sensations a block pass. 0161 877 7252 / Bramall Hall themed sensory play sessions. How has Scouting changed in the but also mechanics, abseiling, photography brand-new kit. There is a thriving the uniform is very modern these days. It’s children – jam packed with colourful, franchises in the Manchester area in 2017 www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk twenty years you’ve been involved? and entertaining. You name it, really. There second-hand market in scouting gear, and all part of the re-brand to keep us relevant in creative (and often messy!) fun. Classes to people who are going to be a great fit 10.15am – 11am / £3 per baby (max two Saturdays in Jan & Feb accompanying adults free), booking essential The fact that a major celebrity and world-class is always a topic that will appeal. Going on the Scouting Association itself can help out the twenty-first century. Anyone, boy or girl, are centred around children’s learning and for our team.” 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk , Salford adventurer, Bear Grylls, is now the Chief Scout, from there we have the personal development for families that struggle with the costs. can join as a Beaver when they are six and development through art and creative play ARTventurers are going to be attending Lookout, it’s Saturday Playhouse! speaks volumes. His many remarkable awards, Chief Scout and Queen Scout that What’s the best thing about scouting? carry right on through Cubs, Scouts and and the demand to join in the the Boutique Baby Show at the MacDonald 11am – 12.30pm / Ages 5 – 11 / Free Thurs 12 & Thurs 26 Jan, That’s a hard question! There are so many Explorers to the Scout Network for 18-25 ARTventurers fun has been so high that Manchester Hotel on Saturday 4 February A weekly art activity for children and their families in Thurs 9 & Thurs 23 Feb the dedicated Lookout space for families. Something benefits. Most of all, it’s good fun. It’s also years old. Scouting is very inclusive and I last year Fiona launched an ARTventurers and would love to chat to anyone interested Touchstones, Rochdale different each week. www.thelowry.com Tiny Touchstones good to get kids outdoors, get them muddy, really can’t recommend it enough. franchise package. in finding out more about joining the Babies: 10.30am, Toddlers: 11.45am, Ages 3 – 5: and, at the same time, they are learning “The past 12 months have been amazing ARTventurers Team. You can contact Fiona Sundays in Jan & Feb 1pm / £2, no booking required. A programme Salford Museum and Art Gallery behaviours and skills that are setting them For more information about scouting and for ARTventurers” said Fiona. “We have a to book a one-to-one chat on exploring themes of celebration and culture through Mr Tomlinson’s Sweet Shop music, stories, movement and art with Ruthie up for life. It’s win-win really. They make other clubs visit: fabulous and growing team of ARTventurers 07775 911990 or email her at 12.30 – 3pm / Free (donations welcome). Visit Mr Boycott–Garnett. new friends, they have adventures, and they www.familiesonline.co.uk/activities franchisees, the majority of whom are [email protected]. Or just go Tomlinson’s shop on the recreated Victorian street Babies: relax and explore the arts through parents looking to escape the 9 to 5 and along on the day and say hello! You can and pick up some sweet treats! 0161 778 0800 / sensory play. www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk Toddlers: an active session focusing on a run a fun, flexible business around the needs also find out lots more about all of the fun newart form each week to explore, create and build of their family. I set up my business with a they get up to at ARTventurers over at adventures. Ages 3 – 5: A creative session making Puddle Ducks A wonderful swimming baby and a toddler in tow so I’ve been www.artventurers.co.uk music, telling stories and exploring the world. programme delivering nurturing, fun classes to 01706 924928 / link4life.org over 13,000 babies, children and mummies across the UK every week. Babies and children can join our swimming classes at any age from birth, developing into confident swimmers without even realising they’re learning to swim. By engaging each child’s abilities and natural affinity with water, Puddle Ducks offer simple steps to a lifetime love of swimming. Every child is different: our fantastic teachers adapt each activity to suit your child, nurturing water confidence and enjoyment. Mums to be can also keep fit, relax and unwind by joining our Aqua Natal classes. Call 0161 883 0222 (Manchester, Stockport, Oldham and Gee Cross, Hyde) or 01257 262622 (East Lancashire). www.puddleducks.com

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12 Families Manchester | www.familiesonline.co.uk Families Manchester | www.familiesonline.co.uk 13 These listings are for guidance only – please check before you go Not all event information is available at the time of going to press – so make sure you visit To include your upcoming event in our listings, email [email protected] our website which is full of fabulous LOCAL content and being constantly updated. What’s on or upload your event listing to our website - www.familiesonline.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk What’s on

Fri 13 & 27 Jan, Tues 17 Jan Sat 28 Jan Sun 5 Feb & Sun 5 Mar Mon 20 – Fri 24 Feb Tues 21 & Thurs 23 Feb Daily from 28 Feb (closed Z-arts, Hulme Z-arts, Hulme Ordsall Hall, Salford Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Stockport Museum Fri 24 Feb Bramall Hall, Stockport Fri 17 & 24 Feb Baby Play Chinese New Year Family Fun Day Through the Ages... Live! February half term fun Half Term Museum Crafty Makes Mondays) The Lowry, Salford The Beasts of Bramall Hall Stockport Museum 10.30am / Ages 0 – 18 months / Free for Bright 10am – 12pm / Free, booking recommended 1pm / All ages / £1 per child, drop in. A family fun 11am – 4pm / All ages / Free, normal admission 1pm –4pm, Age 5 – 11 / Free, drop in Under 5s First Steps 10am, 1pm & 3pm (1 hour sessions) / Ages 3 – 6 / Museum Mouse’s Musical Meander Sparks members. An interactive room for you and A Chinese themed fun day with arts and crafts day packed with arts, crafts and activities. applies, drop in. Make computer coded necklaces Have a go at different crafts. 10 – 10.45am and 11 – 11.45am / Ages 2 ½ £3 per child, booking essential. A magical tour of the Normal opening hours / all ages / Free, drop in your baby to discover. Booking recommended. inspired by the year of the Rooster. 0161 872 0251 / using binary beads to spell out your name, and take a 0161 474 4444 / www.stockport.gov.uk – 4 ½ / £3.50 (£1.75 Salford residents). Wriggle, Hall for younger visitors. Listen to stories based on A new trail as museum mouse travels around the 0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org 0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk clothes peg and lollipop stick engineering challenge. jiggle and jump as you explore stories, rhythm the creatures found here and find the Red Dragon. Museum learning about music. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry–bank Wed 22 Feb and music through your body. Tues 17 & 31 Jan Sun 29 Jan Sat 11 Feb , Stockport 0161 474 2020 / www.stockport.gov.uk 0161 474 4444 / www.stockport.gov.uk 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com The Ordsall Hall, Salford Altrincham FC Community Sports Hall Tues 21 Feb Disgusting Days Tour Baby Explorer Story Telling for Burns Night Mess Around Extravaganza (with a Valentines twist) Tatton Park, Knutsford 2 – 3.30pm / All ages / Children £3 (1 adult free per Fri 24 – Sun 26 Feb Sat 4 Mar East Lancashire Railway, Bury Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Fri 13 Jan & Fri 10 Feb 10.30 – 11.15am or 11.30am – 12.15pm / Free but 1.30 – 3.30pm / All ages / Free, drop in 2 – 3.15pm / Age 6mnths (sit unaided) – 5yrs / £10, Deer Feed and Trailer Ride paying child), booking essential Hat Works, Stockport Mystery at the Magic Museum World Book Day at Quarry Bank booking essential a week in advance. Interactive story Be captivated by listening to stories from Scottish siblings £5.50, booking essential. Multi–sensory 9.30 – 10.30am / Age 4+ / £8pp, booking essential Take a trip round Staircase house and discover Messy Milliners Join the award–winning After Dark Entertainment team 10.30am – 4pm / All ages / Free, normal and sensory play sessions taking place in the Nature history and folklore in Ordsall Hall’s ‘Chamber of messy play experiences for little ones with older Take a trailer ride with the Rangers to watch the daily disgusting habits, tales and stories about life in the 11am – 11.45am / £3.50 per baby (plus max two on an exciting family friendly theatrical adventure taking admission applies, drop in Discovery gallery. Light’ - The Solar Room. Suitable for families and siblings (up to age 10) welcome to participate in the deer feed. Get a close look at hundreds of deer House (includes a craft activity) accompanying adults), booking essential place amidst the exhibits of . Celebrate World Book Day at Quarry Bank with Musical Baby Explorers children under 16. 0161 872 0251 / Big Kids Create & Make corner. Loads of activities feeding in their beautiful natural setting. 0161 474 4444 / www.stockport.gov.uk An exciting and innovative messy play session with a Scout for clues around the steam powered stars of an interactive tour inspired by bestselling author 1 – 1.45pm / Free but booking essential a week www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk where little ones can squelch, pour, mix and splat, 01625 374428 / www.tattonpark.org.uk hatting theme! Suitable for babies and early walkers yesteryear to solve this interactive mystery. Berlie Doherty’s ‘Far From Home’. Dressing up in advance. Live music and songs inspired by the including the painting wall, rainbow spaghetti and Thurs 23 Feb 0161 474 2399 /www.stockport.gov.uk www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk as your favourite book character is encouraged! collections, supported by a range of playful sensory Sat 28 Jan & Sat 25 Feb snow storm. Also a few valentine themed activities Staircase House, Stockport Tatton Park, Knutsford www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry–bank resources for babies to explore. 0161 275 2648 / Bramall Hall, Stockport including Valentine card making. Scribble as you go Special Winter Welly Walk Sat 25 Feb Early Birds Discover different styles of writing as you go round 10.30am – 12pm, 1 – 2.30pm / Ages 3 – 5 www.museum.manchester.ac.uk www.messarounduk.com/cheshiresouthmcr Didsbury United Reformed Church Hall Mini Art Club 9.30 – 11.30am / Child free, normal admission for (accompanied) / £8 (adult free), booking essential the House. Come and find out more and have a go Mess Around Party 10.15 – 11.15am, 11.30am – 12.30pm / Ages adults, booking essential. Early opening for families Taking inspiration from Michael Morpurgo’s ‘Where Fri 20 Jan & Fri 17 Feb Quarry Bank Mill, Styal at one or more types of lettering!. 1pm – 4pm / All 1.30 – 2.30pm / Age 6mnths (sit unaided) – 5yrs / 1 – 4 / Free, book one week in advance. Explore Bramall Hall, Stockport with autism, offering the opportunity to explore the My Wellies Take Me’, children are invited on an Baby and Toddler – Storytelling and Play session ages / Adult £4.75, Child free, drop in £10, siblings £5.50, booking essential artworks, create and get messy with visual artist Behind the Scenes at Bramall Hall Hall when it’s quiet. Enjoy family trails and activity exciting journey through the woodland to learn 9.30am, 10.15am, 11am / Free, booking essential 0161 474 4444 / www.stockport.gov.uk Multi–sensory messy play experiences for little Jess Wild. 0161 235 8888 / 7pm – 9pm All ages / £10, booking essential boxes. Staff will be on hand to help you to learn about Tatton Park’s nature and wildlife. Only one Bring your little ones to Quarry Bank, for a special ones with older siblings (up to age 10) welcome to www.manchesterartgallery.org Find out more about the restoration and conservation about the Hall. 0161 474 2020 / accompanying adult per child storytelling and play session just for them. Tues 21 – Thurs 23 Feb participate in the Big Kids Create & Make corner. of Bramall Hall – a guided tour with a difference. www.stockport.gov.uk Hat Works, Stockport 01625 374428 / www.tattonpark.org.uk 01625 527468 / Loads of activities where little ones can squelch, Sat 14 Jan 0161 474 4444 / www.stockport.gov.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry–bank Half Term Hat Works Fun Jodrell Bank, Macclesfield pour, mix and splat, including the painting wall, Sun 29 Jan & Sun 26 Feb 2pm – 4pm / Age 7+ / £4, booking essential Touchstones, Rochdale Family Starlight Adventure rainbow spaghetti and snow storm. Sat 21 Jan & Sat 18 Feb The Lowry, Salford Try your hand at a different craft each day, including Family Music and Dance Day 2 – 5pm / All ages (specially under 8s), £10, www.messarounduk.com/cheshiresouthmcr Manchester Art Gallery Relaxed Playhouse Sat 11 – Sun 26 Feb felt making, decoupage and easy lino print. 11am – 4pm / Free, drop in (Families £32 (2 + 2) or £40 (2+3), booking Open Doors 11am – 12.30pm / Ages 5 – 11 / Free but booking Chatsworth House, Bakewell 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk Singing, making instruments, drumming and family essential. Discover the secrets of the stars in the Sun 26 Feb 9.15am – 10.45am / Ages 5 – 16 with families or essential. An accessible visual art activity for children Half term in the farmyard & adventure playground barn dancing (11am & 2pm) with an expert live band. night sky. A fun, fact–packed science show, Hat Works, Stockport carers / Free, drop in. A series of creative, sensory with additional needs and their families. 10.30am – 4.30pm (last admission 3.30pm) / £6pp Bramall Hall, Stockport 01706 924928 / link4life.org hands–on lantern making session, and a special Super Sunday activities aimed at children with autism. 0161 235 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com / £22 per family (2 adults and up to 3 children) Half Term Fun! lantern–led walk to the Galaxy Garden. Enjoy a 11am –– 4pm / All ages / £1.50pp (under 2s free), 8869 / The farmyard and adventure playground will be open 10am, 12pm, 2pm & 4pm (1 hour sessions) / star show in the inflatable planetarium (please drop in. Celebrate all things Welsh as we head www.manchesterartgallery.org Thurs 2 Feb for the February school holidays. Join in the Wild Age 6+ / £3 per child, drop in. Try your hand at a note that visitors will be required to sit on the towards St David’s Day! Daffodils and dragons galore! The John Rylands Library, Manchester West themed fun on our trailer ride, dare to handle difference craft activity each day – printing, stained floor for this).01477 571 766 / 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk Sun 22 Jan Toddler tales the spiders and snakes, take a shot in Tin Can Alley, glass, wattle and daub, or ceiling pendant making. www.jodrellbank.net Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery 10.30 – 11.15am / Under 5s / Free. Find a cosy let off steam in the adventure playground and meet 0161 474 2020 / www.stockport.gov.uk Wellbeing Workshops – You, With Your Body corner, pull up a cushion and listen to fun stories. all the animals in the farmyard. Small extra charge The Manchester Museum 2 – 3pm / All ages (children must be accompanied) Join in playtime, creating a storyworld of your own. for the tractor trailer ride. Autism Friendly Early Opening / Free, booking essential. A fun and interactive www.library.manchester.ac.uk 01246 565300 / www.chatsworth.org Ages 5 – 16 / Free, drop in. Early opening aimed at discussion where you can learn some simple children who have autism and other needs, along pragmatic tools. Guest Speaker: Geraldine Ling. Mon 13 Feb with their families and carers, and siblings. Activities 0161 474 4453 / www.stockport.gov.uk Fri 3 Feb & Fri 3 Mar 2nd Bramhall Scout Hut take place before the Museum opens to the general Manchester Art Gallery Mess Around Party with a Valentines twist public and there will be a quiet room available too. Mon 23 Jan & Mon 27 Feb Baby Friday 10.30 – 11.30am / Age 6mnths (sit unaided) – 5yrs / In this session, the Fossils gallery where Stan the Z-arts, Hulme 1.15 – 2pm, 2.30 – 3.15pm, Free, book one week in £10, siblings £5.50, booking essential. Multi–sensory T–Rex lives will be open earlier. Paint Pots for TotsZ advance. Explore with visual artist, Rose Miller. Ideal for messy play experiences for little ones with older www.museum.manchester.ac.uk 10.30am / Ages 2 – 4 / Free for Bright Sparks babies who aren’t yet walking. For those who can’t book siblings (up to age 10) welcome to participate in the Members. Get creative with your little one. Special on, drop in to the Clore Art Studio from 10am where Big Kids Create & Make corner. Loads of activities Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI), offers in the café too. there will be special baby baskets which will help where little ones can squelch, pour, mix and splat, Manchester 0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org you and your baby explore the Clore’s new design. including the painting wall, rainbow spaghetti and Pi: Platform for Investigation – What’s your FOODprint? 0161 235 8888 / www.manchesterartgallery.org snow storm. Also a few valentine themed activities 10.30am – 3.30pm / Age 8+ / Free Interactive Fri 27 Jan & Fri 24 Feb including Valentine card making. science show creating awareness of the impact of Hat Works, Stockport Bramall Hall, Stockport www.messarounduk.com/cheshiresouthmcr food–related activities. 0161 832 2244 / Mad Hatters Art & Crafts Club Bramall Dragon Club www.msimanchester.org.uk 10am – 11.30am (Ages 2 – 5), 2 – 3pm (Babies – 10am – 12 noon / Ages 2 – 5 years / £7 per child, Sat 18 & Sun 19 Feb age 2) / £5 per child (plus max two accompanying booking essential. Explorer visits to the hall, park and Queen Elizabeth Hall, Oldham Sat 14 & Sun 15 Jan, adults), booking essential. An action packed hour of gardens with dragon hunts, creepy–crawly trails and Manchester Model Engineering Exhibition 2017 arts and crafts with the emphasis on fun and age and wild woodland walks. A unique opportunity to see some of the finest model Sat 11 & Sun 12 Feb ability appropriate crafts. Dress to get messy! 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk engineering in the world. A brilliant family day out Manchester Art Gallery 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk and an inspiration to all engineers, old and new with Family Weekend Wed 4 Feb manhy fascinating attractions. 1pm–3pm / All ages / Free, drop in. Explore, create Sat 28 Jan Stockport Air Raid Shelters www.mmex.co.uk and have fun with your family. Join us in the Clore Grappenhall Community Centre Children’s Explorer Tours Art Studio where a different artist each month will be Mess Around Extravaganza 6.45pm – 8.15pm / Age 7+ / Child: £3.95, Adult: Sat 18 – Sun 26 Feb responding to an exhibition. 10.30 – 11.45am / Age 6mnths (sit unaided) – 5yrs / £3, booking essential. Brave the darkened tunnels as Tatton Park, Knutsford 0161 235 8888 / www.manchesterartgallery.org £10, siblings £5.50, booking essential. Multi–sensory you go back in time and experience the life of a child Scarecrow Festival messy play experiences for little ones with older during the war. 0161 474 1940 / Normal opening times and admission applies. Mon 16 Jan & Mon 20 Feb siblings (up to age 10) welcome to participate in the www.stockport.gov.uk Visit the scarecrow festival in the Gardens and at the Z-arts, Hulme Big Kids Create & Make corner. Loads of activities Farm. Over 30 scarecrows will be resident in the Jitterbugs where little ones can squelch, pour, mix and splat, Sat 4 & Sun 5 Feb Gardens. Find the farmyard scarecrows and have a go 10.30am / Ages 2 – 5 / Free for Bright Sparks including the painting wall, rainbow spaghetti and Macdonald Manchester Hotel & Spa at making your own. Closed Monday. members. A dance and movement class for snow storm. Also a visit by a mascot character, and Boutique Baby Show 01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk pre–schoolers. Booking recommended. facepainting and glitter tattoos for children. 10am – 4pm / Free entry 0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org www.messarounduk.com/cheshiresouthmcr An exciting new Baby Show, aiming at showcasing Mon 20 Feb a variety of small Baby businesses, with focusing on Stockport Museum classes / activities in the North of Manchester that For Families with Autism you can attend with your little one. Raffle in aid of 10am – 12pm, Free, drop in. Enjoy the museum Bliss and Sands charities. while it’s quiet and closed to the public. Staff on www.boutiquebabyshows.co.uk hand to chat about the exhibits and explain the craft activity. Suitable for families with autistic children. 0161 474 4444 / www.stockport.gov.uk

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