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Manchester In this issue: Schoolâ€™s out for Summer! Loads of ideas of things to do and places to see - and how to avoid brain drain!

TWO INCREDIBLE DAYS STUFFED WITH LOADS OF TV STARS, BANDS, SHOWS, RIDES AND FAMILY FUN!

F E ST I V A L 2 0 19

Croxteth Country Park. Liverpool

Issue 76 July/August 2019

More Info - bbc.co.uk/summersocial

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Sat 20 & Sun 21 July The Whitworth & Whitworth Park

(INCLUDING HUMANZ)

FREE Family Event

Commissioned and produced by Manchester International Festival with support from the Whitworth, The University of Manchester.

Illustration: Rob Bailey

News A Ruskin inspired summer at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House

Enjoy a summer full of words, weaving and wonder at Elizabeth Gaskell’s House. Their summer holiday family fun is all about nature and traditional crafts this year, inspired by the Gaskells’ friend, the writer, artist and critic John Ruskin, in honour of the bicentenary of his birth. Drop-in every Wednesday between 1 and 3pm

MCM Comic Con

Whether you’re into movies, sci-fi, comic books, videogames or anime, anyone with a passion for pop culture will want to check out MCM Manchester Comic Con when the show returns for another weekend of glorious geekery on 27-28 July. Taking place beneath the impressive arched roof of Manchester Central, MCM Manchester comes packed with a host of exciting attractions and activities, including a great line-up of TV and film guests, who’ll be signing autographs, posing for photos with fans and taking to the stage for live panels and interviews. Joining MCM Manchester’s special guests will be a scintillating selection of comic book and Next issue: September/October 2019 Circulation: 30,000 copies of Families Manchester are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected shops and other points throughout Greater Manchester. If you would like free copies for your organisation, please let us know. Editors: Jayne Keep & Caryl Hall Contact details: Families Manchester, 3 Hall Hill, Bollington SK10 5ED Tel: 01625 801 801 www.familiesonline.co.uk Editorial: editor@familiesmanchester.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

for writing, painting, sketching, making, reading or weaving. 24 July: Cloudspotting – writing poems & painting clouds 31 July: Weaving – try stickweaving and create a rustic decoration 7 August: Making bees – make pine cone bumble bees 21 August: Lavender Bags – create fragrant lavender bags 28 August: Dame Wiggins & Her Cats – Read Ruskin’s children’s rhymes & make your own origami cat. £1 per child, with accompanying adult with a House ticket. The programme is part of the city-wide Ruskin In Manchester events, supported by the Guild of St. George and Manchester Metropolitan University. www.elizabethgaskellhouse.co.uk graphic novel creators, with the event’s Comic Village area playing host to an intriguing mix of big name artists and writers, exciting small press and indie publishers and up-and-coming local talent. The show will also be home to thousands of people in costume, from off-the-peg face masks and superhero suits to meticulouslydetailed, handcrafted outfits that take months to build. While many fans come in costume just for fun, MCM Manchester also features official cosplay masquerades and competitions, giving cosplayers the chance to strut their stuff in front of a packed audience. Other attractions include the gaming space Side Quest, featuring a wide range of iconic videogames across an eclectic mix of platforms; The Treehouse area for your smallest superheroes, where families can relax and recharge before heading back into the show; and, of course, more cool exhibitors and retailers than you can shake a lightsaber at! www.mcmcomiccon.com Advertising/artwork: advertising@familiesmanchester.co.uk Events, diary dates, what’s on: events@familiesmanchester.co.uk Cover Photography: Deposit Photos www.depositphotos.com Design: WITH Creative, Congleton. www.withcreative.co.uk Print: Warwick Printers, Caswell Road Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV31 1QD Tel: 01926 883355 www.warwickprinting.co.uk

Get hands on at the Festival of Archaeology

The Festival of Archaeology is a fortnight long festival which runs from 13 to 28 July 2019 providing opportunities for families to discover archaeology in their local area.

Events are being held across the UK at sites of archaeological and historical interest. You’ll be able to watch experts at work or get ‘hands-on’ by experiencing the excitement of an archaeology dig, including having a go at geophysical and topographic surveys, or taking part in actual excavations. The festival is co-ordinated by the Council for British Archaeology and aims to showcase the very best of archaeology for everyone. To find events in your area visit www.festival.archaeologyuk.org

Looking for a fun and flexible home-based business opportunity? How about becoming the new owner of Families Manchester! Do you want to: Work flexibly from home Juggle your own hours Be your own boss Be part of an experienced and supportive network of like-minded people? Then Families is perfect for you! You’ll do everything from writing and editing to selling ad space and invoicing – all with full training, back up and support from an experienced team at Head Office and over 30 other editors country-wide.

Manchester

In this issue: Times tables tips & tricks Family friendly working

In this issue:

Mother’s Day after loss

Independent or State education?

In this issue:

Help your child cope with stress Talking about the loss of a loved one

What to do if your child self-harms Best baby apps for new parents Make 2019 your happiest year EVER

Issue 73 Jan/Feb 2018

Issue 71 Sep/Oct

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2018

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Discover an altogether more individual approach to early learning. Early Years Open Day 28th March, 9.30am-12pm

Issue 74 Mar/Apr 2019

Tel: 0161 794 1463 bridgewater-school.co.uk

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To find out more, get in touch today! Email editor@familiesmanchester.co.uk or call 01625 801801.

Families Manchester is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Manchester are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Manchester

Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Manchester, its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof. @FamiliesMancMag www.facebook.com/FamiliesManchester

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News Get close to nature at Dunham Massey

Help Percy the Park Keeper discover nature’s treasure, get hands-on with the rangers and be inspired by photographs of local champions of nature in the house at Dunham Massey this summer. From Wednesday 12 June – Wednesday 4 September, families can join Percy the Park Keeper’s treasure hunt and help his excited animal friends to discover nature’s treasure. Explore the garden and the deer park as you search for sapphire blues, ruby reds, amethyst purples, citrine yellows and emerald greens on the second interactive trail of the year, with even more activities planned for the summer holidays!

Get hands on with the rangers during an action-packed week of outdoor adventures from Monday 29 July – Friday 2 August. During Ranger Fest, families can learn new skills and find out what it’s like to look after Dunham Massey’s wonderful wildlife. How many things can you tick off the National Trust’s ’50 things to do before you’re 11 3/4’ list? Visit the house between Saturday 29 June and Sunday 3 November for a photography exhibition of local people who are doing their bit for nature every day. Be inspired by their stories and join the conversation to let us know what small things we can all do to look after green spaces for the next generation to enjoy. Normal admission applies. See the website for full information. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ Dunham-Massey

Bolton Food and Drink Festival 23 – 26 August 2019

Clear your calendar, set your alarm and come and head to Bolton this August Bank Holiday weekend for some of the best family entertainment around at one of the North West’s favourite events! Bolton’s celebrated Food and Drink Festival, sponsored by Aldi is back for its 14th year and it’s better than ever. Voted the best Food Market in 2017 and as the best market attraction in 2018 by the National Association of British Market Authorities it’s one date you need in your diary! This year’s Festival promises to be even more magical with a bank holiday weekend of food, drink, fun, family entertainment and live music all crammed into 4 days. Feast your senses with: • Celebrity and regional chef cookery demos • Over 200 food, drink and arts and craft stalls

• Special events, including a trendy Gin and Rum festival and a Comedy and burger night • Brand new Masterclasses in the Chef’s Kitchen • The return of the Festival Music stage on Le Mans Crescent, with daily headline acts and local musical talent • Fantastic children’s entertainment – loads of great free activities based in the Family Zone at Crompton Place Friends of the festival and national treasures, The Hairy Bikers are making a welcome return to Bolton (they last rode into town in August 2011) so they’re sure to be popular! They’re also joined by TV presenter extraordinaire, the fantastic Greg Wallace who knows a thing or two about food and, of course, the festival wouldn’t be what it is without the wonderful Mr James Martin and the equally fabulous Michael Caines. Don’t forget as well as the live celebrity chef demos there’s also a packed special events programme. For full details and to buy tickets visit Boltonfoodanddrinkfestival.com Follow Food and Drink page on Facebook, @boltonfoodfest on Twitter or Instagram.

Step up for St Ann’s Hospice

Our nurses walk an average of two miles a day when caring for our patients - that’s 4,000 steps! Will you walk 30 days in their shoes for our Step Up challenge? Follow these simple steps to get involved: • Set yourself a target distance or number of steps to walk or run in September • Register to Step Up at www.sah.org.uk/Step-Up-For-St-Anns • Support us by raising as much money as you can in sponsorship for our patients 30 days, your way! How far will you step?

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Stepping into the shoes of a nurse probably isn’t something that many local people have ever thought they’d do, but a brand new charity challenge is asking supporters to do just that. The Step up for St Ann’s challenge sees St Ann’s Hospice appealing for local people to pledge to walk a set distance through September in aid of their patients, reflecting the distance their nurses walk each day whilst providing care. Eamonn O’Neal, Chief Executive, explained: “Our hospice nurses walk an average of two miles a

day, so in our latest fundraiser we’re asking local people to walk 30 days in their shoes. People simply choose a distance – or number of steps – they pledge to walk during September, and can complete the distance whenever, and however, they like. “People could decide to walk as far as our nurses, 60 miles over the month, or they could choose another distance, perhaps how far they walk on the school run each day. It’s a great challenge for those heading back to school in September who want to leave the car at home, or even those starting the school run for the first time. Whatever your reason for getting involved, every penny raised will make a huge difference to the lives of our patients.” Sign up now at www.sah.org.uk/ Step-Up-For-St-Anns or call 0161 498 3631.

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News Get motivated for the 11plus

Award-Winning 11+ Specialists Start today for just

£79* one-off payment

1 Month Intensive Revision Course For children in Year 5

Boost your child’s confidence before the 11+ entrance exam! The next few weeks are crucial in the build-up to the 11plus exam, so it is vital for your child to stay engaged over the summer. With over 16 years of experience preparing children for the 11plus in both GL and CEM exam formats, KSOL can help them through this final stage. Senior KSOL tutor, Paul, offers some useful 11+ revision advice: “Little and often is key. Encourage your child to constantly review their notes or use revision cards to keep everything at the forefront of their minds. Remember to take a measured approach: you do not

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want to overload them! Make sure these activities are interactive and engaging. Our one month personalised Intensive Online Course uses a unique TargetTeach® solution to provide children with challenging daily tests and weekly video lessons, designed to focus and improve their specific areas of weakness. All progress is regularly monitored by our team of expert 11+ tutors.” Online Intensive Revision Courses start from £79 (+ course set-up fee). Visit www.ksol.co.uk for special summer offers or call 0161 327 2003 today!

Personalised daily online tests Speak to your tutor directly

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Revise key topics in Maths, English, Verbal and NVR Weekly interactive video lesson Suitable for all 11+ entrance exams

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SPECIAL OFFER - ENROL NOW & GET A FREE BONUS WEEK OF TESTS!

Call 0161 327 2003 Visit www.ksol.co.uk *All courses subject to a £15 course set-up fee

Families Manchester 5

News New Virtual Reality arcade now open!

X-GENVR is a brand new Virtual Reality arcade based in Stockport offering VR experiences this summer and beyond. The arcade at X-GENVR has 10 thrilling virtual arcade rides that not only include a VR headset but also put you right into the heart of the action by using motion platforms to match your in-game moves. This means you feel every twist and turn as you challenge your friend to a motorbike or

go-kart race or feel your arms shake as you shoot enemies with powerful machine guns. Also on offer are luxury private rooms available for up to 4 players. With cutting edge Virtual Reality headsets, you can explore all kinds of virtual worlds. From flying through the skies, battling zombies in a dark sewer, walking a plank 30 stories high or exploring outer space, X-GENVR has passionate, expert staff on hand to find the right experience for you. X-GENVR is suitable for children aged 7+ to adults of any age, so perfect for all the family. Prices start from as little as £9.99 for a 15 minute time slot in the arcade. Find out more and book today at www.x-genvr.com

Celebrate play on Playday UK!

Playday (Wednesday 7 August 2019) is an annual celebration of children’s play with thousands of children and families playing outside at events across the UK. It’s an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of

From primary school to the world of drama

Littleborough teacher Jules Farrar had always had a passion for drama. After appearing in a number of plays at Bradford Playhouse,

where she was the social director, she trained as a teacher at Brighton University. But the desire to tread the boards still burned within her. She now combines her twin vocations by teaching drama classes for children aged 5 to 11 at Littleborough’s Ebor Studio. Two Shire Drama’s classes cover a range of performing arts techniques ranging from mime and movement to characterisation and voice. Jules also organises plays that the children can appear in. They are currently rehearsing a work called “Rainbow” and she is working on a script that tells the story of the Rochdale Pioneers from a child’s point of view.

children’s play and the need for quality play opportunities every day of the year. From small-scale community events to thousands of children taking part in events organised in parks and open spaces, Playday is celebrated by each community in a way that suits them. As well as a celebration of children’s right to play, Playday is a campaign that highlights the importance of play in children’s lives. You can hold and register your own Playday event or find one close to you by visiting www.playday.org.uk

Virtual Reality Arcade STOCKPORT OFFERING A WIDE RANGE OF IMMERSIVE VR EXPERIENCES FOR AGES 7+

Prices Start From Only £9.99 WWW.X-GENVR.COM 6 Families Manchester

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S c t s h e o r o o F oliday Clubs l H

4-12 years Whitefield & Prestwich

Run from 2 locations: - Springwater Park, Whitefield, M45 7ST - Garden Needs, Prestwich, M7 4NT Open 7.30am to 6pm

We also offer Forest School Nurseries 0-5 years & Birthday Parties Book by visiting our Forest School Holiday Club pages at www.kidsadventures.co.uk/forest-school For any other queries Tel: 0161 212 4980

Summer 10 brain-stimulating activities to keep learning alive this summer

The summer holidays are a great time for children to reboot and relax, but it’s also been reported they can lose 25% of what they’ve earned during the long break. Claire Winter looks at how to keep their learning alive with ten brain-stimulating activities to do this summer. Have a board game tournament Tactical board games like Chess and Backgammon give the brain a workout. Scrabble helps with vocabulary and Monopoly boosts Maths and money management skills. Games like Trivial Pursuit are great for learning general knowledge. Not only are board games fun, but they also teach valuable lessons like being strategic, following instructions, learning how to lose, and communicating with other players.

Make reading fun The annual Summer Reading Challenge, which inspires kids across the UK to read six books and collect rewards for doing so, is an excellent place to start. Sign up at your local library. To find out more check out www. summerreadingchallenge.org.uk. When your child reads they exercise their brain, they use their imagination and they gain valuable knowledge about the world they live in. Comics and newspapers designed for kids like the Week Junior or First News, might appeal to kids who are not so keen on longer books. You could also reward reading with screen time on a favourite device or make bedtime a dedicated reading time. Learn to play a musical instrument Playing a musical instrument helps engage the brain, and the summer is a perfect time to learn something new as your child can practice daily without the distraction of a busy schedule. Learning a musical instrument can also help with learning languages too. Try a new sport Learning a new sport not only strengthens the body but also the brain. You’ll find plenty of opportunities for your child to try a plethora of new sports like

Surviving the summer holidays

Quiet time once a day Over the holidays, parents can sometimes feel they need to entertain their children all the time. But to avoid everybody getting over-tired, hot and irritable, quiet time at least once a day is required. Time when there’s no rush, not too much noise, and rest.

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Keep it quiet It sounds obvious but background noise can be stressful and distracting. The radio, TV, washing machine and traffic noise can build up quite a din. Turn off what you can.

rock climbing, canoeing, Karate, abseiling and street dance. Sport also teaches essential life skills like self-confidence, teamwork and strategic thinking. Keep a summer journal Encourage your child to document the summer with pictures and writing, perhaps choosing a theme. If they like computers, you could get them to create a digital journal with written entries, video diaries, and photos. Write stories and post cards Documenting the summer on Instagram with pictures and captions is one way to get a child who loves social media platforms involved. If all else fails, encourage them to engage in the old-fashioned way and write stories with an actual pen and paper! Getting younger children to write and send postcards when you are on holiday will boost their writing skills. Learn to cook Bake Off and Master Chef fans will love this challenge. Get your child to search for some fun recipes to make for the family. They could design a menu for the day, a picnic or an evening meal. Let them be in charge of buying the ingredients too, even if you need to accompany them to the supermarket or help them order online. Weighing, measuring and following instructions all keep the brain active.

Get gardening Research some insect and butterfly-friendly plants and flowers to plant in the garden or try and grow some fruit or veg from seed. It’s a great introduction to science, and you could also tie it in with a visit to a Botanical garden, Arboretum or National Trust property to sample the vast variety of plants and trees they have on offer. Learn to code Coding is fascinating and great for kids who love their tech. There are some brilliant, free websites which teach your kids the basics of coding, such as Scratch (www.scratch.mit.edu), and Alice (www.alice.org) where children can learn to programme, tell stories and animate! Try puzzles Number puzzles and Sudoku are great for improving the grey matter. Older children may enjoy a fun day at an escape room where they have to solve clues to get out.

Preparation To make the most of quiet time, prepare for it. This could take ten minutes or half an hour, but quickly wash up, put cushions back on sofas, and put phones away. This is time for all of you to relax. Be ready with activities Have a list of activities ready for quiet time. Books, drawing and colouring in are all lovely peaceful activities that allow our minds to rest. Consider timings Quiet time is best introduced when things get a bit much at home. This can often occur when you come in from the shops, or after a long time in the car. When tears start, it’s time to rally the troops for some time out.

Adult rest Remember you need to sit down too, so put your magazines, books or work aside for this time. Sit with your children and enjoy the peace yourself. They’ll learn self-care from you. Take a moment If we look for them, there are moments of quiet we can easily enjoy in the day, even when life is buzzing around us. Relaxing in the park or just some soothing music in the car. Moments of peace throughout the day can be a great way to regulate the mind and relax. For more advice, visit www.fegans.org.uk/parent-hub

The key to surviving the summer holidays is to mix it up. If you are working, book the kids into a scheduled summer camp or activities, and plan some exciting days out, plus some fun at home. This will ensure your child doesn’t suffer from the dreaded brain drain.

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Summer The must-have accessory for accident free family holidays Slipfree® shoes have been cleverly designed to keep children (and adults) safe by helping prevent slips and falls on wet or dry surfaces. Made from a light, flexible, quick-drying and breathable fabric, they’re the next best thing to bare feet but with the added protection of a firm grip sole. They’re super comfortable, easy to swim in and can be used almost anywhere –

including all year round at the swimming pool, at exercise classes, for gymnastics and at home on slippy floors, in the bathroom and garden! With over 20 fun and colourful designs sizes ranging from an infant size 2 to a men’s size 11, Slipfree® have the whole family covered. Prices are £14.95 for children’s and £18.95 for adults, available from stockists nationwide and www.iloveslipfree.co.uk

Multi-activity holiday clubs in Chorlton and Stretford BOSH is running a multi-activity holiday club for 3 – 11 year olds from 22 July until 30 August (first week based at West Didsbury and Chorlton Football Club) and then at St Hilda’s School in Stretford. OFSTED registered and running for their 16th year, BOSH’s experienced Play Workers will facilitate lots of outdoor play including the usual sports and

games (e.g. football, rounders and playground games) but also trampolining, den building and lots of free play – even the odd water fight! They also have lots of toys and games for free play - children enjoy dressing up, playing in tents and arts and crafts. They’ll bake, make and sew all in a safe, stimulating and playful environment. See www.boshonline.co.uk for more info and to book.

Forest School Holiday Clubs Prestwich and Whitefield

Join in an outdoor adventure this Summer at one of Kids adVentures Forest School Holiday Clubs, running in Whitefield and Prestwich from 7.30am to 6pm during weekdays throughout the Summer holidays. Places are available for 5 – 12 year olds. There’s also a limited amount of availability for 3 and 4 years olds at the Prestwich site. Run by their fully qualified forest school leaders and childcare team, activities include: • Den making • Basic survival skills • Bug hunting • Outdoor crafts • Nature treasure hunts • Making bow and arrows • Pond dipping • Climbing structures • Creating your own outdoor games

Every day includes structured activity and free play. The children lead a circle meeting each morning to discuss what activities they’d like to do. Forest School provides a unique outdoor experience which encourages children to try new things, use their imagination and, work with others. It fosters confidence and naturally teaches children about appropriate levels of risk. Kids adVentures has been running forest schools for the last two years and now has 2 sites: Prestwich Forest School – Garden Needs, Radford Street, Salford M7 4NT Whitefield Forest School – Springwater Park, Park Entrance, Top end of Highfield Lane Whitefield, M45 7ST You can find out more and book by visiting www.kidsadventures. co.uk/forest-school Additionally, they also run a full time forest school pre-school, birthday parties, mobile sessions for groups and deliver Level 3 forest school training for teachers and playworkers.

Are you feeling lucky?! WIN a Family Ticket to the BBC Summer Social! BBC Summer Social is back at Croxteth Country Park, Liverpool on Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 August, bringing the very best bits of the whole BBC across a packed family festival weekend of music, sport and live performances. Saturday brings pop acts including Busted, Pixie Lott, Rak-Su, and John Newman, broadcast on Radio 2, along with CBBC favourites including The Next Step, and Almost Never and much more! Sunday sees Mr Tumble headlining the main stage alongside Andy Day & The Odd Socks, Dr Ranj, Yolanda, Cook and Line from Swashbuckle, Hey Duggee and Bing! All weekend, there’s a BBC Sport field, a Doctor Who zone, Bedtime Stories, a Clangers Garden, plus an entire field of inflatable fun, including the world’s biggest bouncy castle and assault course! Everything on site is in the

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ticket price of £23.50 plus £1.50 (free for under 2’s). www.bbc.co.uk/summersocial We’ve got a Family Ticket (2 adults, 2 children) for this fabulous event up for grabs! To be in with a chance of winning, just send an email with the words SUMMER SOCIAL as the subject, and with your name and phone number in the body to caryl@familiesmanchester.co.uk. Closing date: Sunday 28 July. Please note that the ticket covers entry for one day only (choice of Sat 3 or Sun 4 August) and once awarded, is not transferable.

BOOK NOW FOR SUMMER WORKSHOP!

Where children become everything they can be Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds

DIDSBURY SUMMER WORKSHOP Parrs Wood High School 5 - 9 Aug Ages 4-6 and 7-18 0808 208 5134 didsbury@stagecoach.co.uk

SALFORD SUMMER WORKSHOP Bridgewater School 29 July - 2 Aug Ages 4-7 and 8-18 01706 601 072 salford@stagecoach.co.uk

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

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Summer

Consider a family break at The Belfry Summer in the Alps Named as England’s Leading Resort, The Belfry caters for all types of family stays and is close to a variety of popular family favourites which can easily be reached throughout your stay, such as Drayton Manor, Cadbury World, Twycross Zoo, as well as the National Sea Life Centre and Birmingham city centre, which is only 20 minutes away. On-site at The Belfry you’ll find the woodland walk, playground, swimming pool and mini-golf to keep the adventurous little ones entertained. Plus, there is an

on-site OFSTED registered crèche if you’re looking for some ‘me-time’. After a day of fun, you can enjoy the family Pizza Pasta restaurant before retiring back to your comfy and spacious family room. With fantastic family facilities and a stunning resort set in 550 acres of countryside – there’s something to keep everyone entertained. Kids stay and eat for free during the Summer Holidays. Visit www.TheBelfry.com or call 01675 238600 to find out more.

The Alps may be an obvious destination for the ski season, but how about a summer visit? Summer offers enough green (the mountains) and blue (the sky) to set you up for the whole year - and plenty of fresh air to fill your families’ lungs. With reasonably priced flights from London airports to Geneva then a short drive to Morzine, there’s a warm welcome waiting from Paul and Francesca Eyre at Chilly Powder. With the main chalet – Au Coin du Feu – plus two chalets next door, you can organise your own

meals, or join the party at ‘Au Coin du Feu’ for dinners that you usually only dream of. Family friendly early evening meals for the children and a daytime crèche for little ones not quite as active as you, with drinks in the bar for the grownups – or in the Jacuzzi on the terrace – Paul and Francesca will make you wish that this was home! For more about Chilly Powder chalets for summer and winter visit www.chillypowder.com and for more about summer in Morzine visit www.morzine-avoriaz.com/ activites-de-plein-air-ete.html

FAMILY

ADVE N T U R E S KIDS STAY AND EAT FOR FREE ADULTS FROM £55 PER PERSON Swimming Pool | Mini Golf Family Dining | Spacious Family Rooms Woodland Walk | Playground

01675 238 600 | www.TheBelfry.com ENGLAND’S LEADING RESORT WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS 2018

10 Families Manchester

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Summer Summer days out put the kids in charge!

There has been a lot in the press in recent months about ‘helicopter parenting’ and the fact that many parents are doing too much for their children. So how about breaking the cycle and putting the kids in charge for the day? Claire Winter makes some suggestions. Sometimes when we’re busy we can over schedule our child’s school holidays with clubs, activities, play dates and days out. So why not counteract this by taking a step back and putting the kids in charge? Children love independence so let each child in your family set the agenda for one day. Give them a budget and encourage them to start planning! Parent coach Susi Ramroop (www.susieramroop.com) says it’s important to give our kids more independence. “In an attempt to please our kids and keep them busy, we fill their schedules with activities, and run the risk of overwhelming them. Teaching them from a young age to choose a day out based on what brings the most joy exercises their decision-making muscles, and sets them up for a better future – making choices is the foundation for managing time and money effectively.”

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Follow these easy steps: Put one of your children in charge Set the agenda. Let your child know that he or she has to plan an activity that is out of the house for the day, as well as how to get there and back and where and what the family is going to eat for each meal. Set a budget Give your child a set cash allocation for the day. They then need to decide what to spend the budget on. The budget needs to cover the day out or activity as well as food. They might decide to buy food for a picnic, treats or eat out. Assist them to actually buy any food required. Get them researching Get them to research the activity or day out they want as a starting point. Give them some tips on researching travel costs. You can assist them with this if they ask for help but try not to take over.

Advise them to pre-buy the tickets or train fares online. Depending on their age they may be able to enter credit or debit card information and manage booking systems. If not, give them some help with this. If they can stretch the budget or find free things to do, they get extra brownie points! Let them navigate Get them to look up the location on Google maps or Sat Nav if you are driving or on a map if you are walking or using public transport. They can ask you for help if necessary. Ask them to direct you to your destination. If they make mistakes, it’s all part of the learning. It may be mayhem! Remember things may not all go to plan but you can have fun, relax and enjoy not being in charge. Sometimes kids need to learn from experience that sweets for every meal is not a good idea!

Keep it up If the experiment went well, why not introduce it as a regular feature in family life? You could have a fun day out ideas jar that everyone contributes to. The whole family can throw their ideas into a hat or jar and you pull one out every weekend. My kids love having a Mexican, Indian or Pizza night. They plan the menu and ingredients required, then we do the shopping and cooking together. When the food is ready, we watch a film. An activity doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. We often forget that what children actually really want is to be spending time with us, not expensive days out or material things. Helping our children develop independence is vital. We need to give them the tools to become responsible, emotionallyintelligent adults who are capable of making their own decisions. It’s not always easy to let go but when you do it’s great to see their smiles of satisfaction when they are allowed to do things their way! Please share your kids in charge days out with us on Twitter and Facebook. We would love to know how you get on! Use the hashtag #familieskidsincharge.

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Summer Days of fun all summer long Rollercoasters, zoos, museums, forts and art galleries, out there is a day out for everyone! Claire Winter has scoured the country to find fun and free days out across the UK this summer. Here’s Families’ pick of the best attractions that your family should check out if you’re in the area.

Visit a museum In cities across the UK, there are world-renowned museums that offer free access to exhibitions all year round. The V&A Museum of Childhood in London, the National Football Museum in Manchester and the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery are great examples. It’s worth checking out the individual museum’s website as they often offer free or low cost activities for kids to do during the holidays. www.visitbritain.com is a great resource for finding museums across Britain.

Have a forest adventure in the Lake District Hunt for fairies in Hayes’s Ever-changing Forest this summer. This magical forest is open to families to experience and learn about the seasons. After a day of fun, families can relax in the sensory room and enjoy a drink and snacks in the Woodland Cafe. The cost is £12 per child including activities in the forest, snacks, drinks, and a gift bag. www.hayesgardenworld.co.uk/ event/ever-changing-forest

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Try tennis for free Game, set and match! Capitalise on Wimbledon fever and sign your child up for a free tennis lesson. The charity Tennis For Free offers free weekly coaching sessions at 86 locations in England and Scotland every week. Go to their website at www.tennisforfree.com to book a session.

Check out the Birds of Prey at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm Soar with the Eagles at ‘Wings of Wonder,’ the brand new birds of prey enclosure and display show at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Bristol, which houses over 100 animals. The new flying display treats spectators to an all-action flight show of impressive birds of prey including eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls. The Wings of Wonder birds of prey will fly twice a day in their new timetable of daily events and there will be daily keeper talks as well. Adults from £18, children) from £13.50 and family passes from £42.75. Concessions available, and children under 2 and essential carers free. www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk Locally you can find Gauntlet in Knutsford (www.gauntlet.info), Cheshire Falconry in Northwich (www.cheshirefalconry.com) and Rescue, Conservation and Education centre Wild Wings Birds of Prey in Warrington (www.wildwingbirdsofprey.co.uk).

Join in with National Play Day National Play Day takes place across the country on 7 August. Families have the chance to play at hundreds of community events across the UK, from giant picnics, fun in the woods to street parties with games. Find your nearest ones at www.playday.org.uk. Visit an Iron Age fort Go back in time and visit Maiden Castle near Dorchester in Dorset. It’s an enormous Iron Age hill fort with ditches and ramparts galore. If you take the climb to the top, you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views. More details at www.english-heritage.org.uk/ visit/places/maiden-castle/ Go stargazing Explore the planets and stars by visiting the astronomical and space displays at Mills Observatory in Dundee, Britain’s first purposebuilt public observatory! Find out more at www.leisureandculturedundee. com/culture/mills

Or closer to home, try Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre’s fun and interactive, family-friendly science shows and hands on activities. www.jodrellbank.net Check out new talent in Edinburgh From 1 to 25 August, a free version of Edinburgh’s famous Fringe festival takes place with 100s of shows and performances to enjoy. There’s also a special kid’s programme with events scheduled in over the summer holidays. You can check full details by visiting www.freefestival.co.uk Go on a Lego adventure A visit to Legoland in Windsor is must for all Lego fans. It’s expensive and busy, but the park, which has been made out of 80 million Lego bricks, is a firm favourite with the kids. New for 2019 is the Haunted House Monster Party. If you have the budget, it’s well worth signing up for Q-bot, a queue-jumping device that will get you to the front of many of the queues for rides. Tickets cost from £29 per person online. Visit www.legoland.co.uk Explore the Olympic Park The Queen Elizabeth Park covers 530 acres. It’s home to the London Stadium, the ArcelorMittal Orbit, the London Aquatics Centre and the Lee Valley VeloPark. There are lots of free trails, parklands, waterways, and playgrounds to explore and it’s open daily. Find out more at www.queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk. Share your summer fun days out with us on Facebook or Twitter!

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Summer Enjoying rainy days By Andrew Campbell

We’ll undoubtedly experience rainy days this summer but wet summer days can also be quite warm. Try these fun activities that make the most of the rain and fresh air. Rainbow art Sprinkle powder paints or washable markers on white card

and get your children to stand out in the rain, letting the raindrops mix and making their own modern art. Take it inside to dry before the rain washes the paint away! Buy a worm farm Rain awakens juicy worms from their slumber. Pull on your wellies and collect a few slimy friends

to put in your indoor farm, so your children can study them up close. Puddle splashing Make splashing puddles extra fun by creating a multi-coloured water world. Simply drop food colouring in the puddles before making the leap. Raindrop orchestra Saucepans, empty tin cans and upturned plastic bottles can create music when drops of rain falling on them. See how creative your kids can be! Inside-out Take bath toys outside to bob around in the puddles. Water-activated robot fish toys (£9.99 Amazon) look great! Build a dam If you have a stream close by, use stone, rocks, twigs, logs and sticks to make a dam over it. Remember to take it apart before you leave, so as not to disrupt any animal habitats.

Boat race Running water in a park stream or down a pavement is great for creating your very own boat race. Make your own boats out of things you find outside and then you just need to agree where the race starts and finishes before launching your vessels! Dance in the rain Buy a waterproof cover for your smartphone and let your child take pictures of you and the family frolicking in the wet weather. Take out your most colourful brollies and welly boots to make the pictures extra special. Go on a bug hunt The rain entices out plenty of creatures, such as slugs and snails. It’s also fun to look for creatures that are sheltering like birds, spiders and woodlouse.

Space Chase – 2019 Summer Reading Challenge

Set for the Summer at Superstars! Superstars Holiday Clubs run across 11 sites (in Prestwich, Didsbury and Chorlton, as well as Warrington, St Helens and Northwich) over the school holidays. This summer, children can enjoy Multi Sports, Football, Dance, Lego, Tennis, Art Club, and Trampolining or (new for Summer 2019) Computer Coding Club, half day Drone Flying and Photography Club! Multi Sports sessions offer over 50 different sports for the children to develop and play. Football sessions are based around developing their skills and playing small matches. Superstars accepts childcare vouchers as well as payment by debit or credit card. Costs are £17.50 per day (8am – 4.30pm), or a 5 hr flexi day costs £12.50. Late pick up (up to 6pm) is available for £2.50 extra per day per child. Full details of what’s on offer offer can be found at www.littlesuperstars.co.uk, where you can view their full 24-page summer brochure. Or contact them on 01925 555859.

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Children’s reading can decline during the summer holidays if they don’t have regular access to books or encouragement to read for pleasure, so the Summer Reading Challenge encourages children aged 4 to 11 to read six library books during the long summer holiday.

This year the challenge will focus on the theme ‘Space Chase’ – an out-of-thisworld adventure inspired by the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing. Children collect rewards, such as stickers, for every book read on their way to receiving their challenge certificate and medal. The Challenge launches in libraries on Saturday 13 July 2019. For competitions, book recommendations and special online badges and rewards, visit www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

Specialised Camp Weeks: Trampolining, Tennis, Art Club and Club NEW FOR SUMMER COMPUTER CODING CLUB DRONE WORKSHOP PHOTOGRAPHY DAY Monday 22nd July to Friday 3rd September

8am - 4.30pm (option of late pick up until 6pm)

01925 555859

www.littlesuperstars.co.uk Families Manchester 13

Summer Free and fun activities in nature

With the imminent start of the summer holidays, we asked the Woodland Trust for its top pick of holiday adventures to get children active outdoors and away from their screens! Create a fairy garden Use your imagination to design a fantastic fairy garden! You can do this indoors if it’s raining. You’ll need: • A container, such as a plastic box or old washing up bowl • Earth • A collection of natural materials: small stones or pebbles, sticks, moss, leaves, and perhaps some small flowering plants. Fill your container with earth (if you’re using living plants, put some stones in the bottom for drainage). Use some leafy twigs to make trees. Build a fence or little seat with sticks. You could even make a pond by sinking a plastic cup or another small container into the earth and filling it with water. You’re bound to think of lots more ideas once you get started…

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Embark upon a woodland challenge Set up challenges to complete on a day out in the woods and have a competition with your family and friends. Remember to decide how many points each challenge is worth. Here are some challenge ideas: • Climb a tree (make sure there’s an adult around though!) • Balance on a fallen tree trunk and walk along • Find three types of flower • Cross a stream without getting your feet wet • Identify three different tree species • Find some wild animal evidence – tracks, a fox or rabbit hole, some fur caught on a bush, or even some poo! Tip: you can use the downloadable summer flowers ID sheet at www.woodlandtrust. org.uk/naturedetectives for this challenge Host a Teddy Bears’ Picnic This is sure to be a hit with younger children, especially if they can invite some friends from nursery. Use a teddy cookie cutter to make some little bear-shaped sandwiches. Cut out some pictures of bears and hide them in the surrounding area for kids to find (just remember to take them home with you when you leave). There are lots of fun picnic ideas at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk

Learn to skim stones You can do this on a pond, river, or calm sea. Just be careful not to get too near the water’s edge and make sure you don’t hit any ducks – or swimmers! • Find some round, flat, smooth stones • Hold a stone flat between your thumb and forefinger • Get down low and throw it across the water with a spinning action. Do persevere as it might take a bit of practice. Try a barefoot walk Let the grass tickle your toes, splash through a stream, and stomp in some squidgy mud. Did you know you have over 7,000 nerve endings in each foot, so walking barefoot is a great way to get in touch with nature? Just make sure you avoid anything sharp on the ground. Some parks and attractions have special barefoot trails, so search online for one near you. You could even try setting up a barefoot walk in your back garden. Go on a butterfly hunt Summer brings with it throngs of colourful butterflies. You will find a downloadable butterfly caterpillars ID sheet at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/ naturedetectives which you can use to hunt fluttery butterflies in woodland clearings. If it’s too wet to go outside, why not cheer yourself up with a gorgeous butterfly mobile instead?

You’ll need: • several sticks of similar length • string or wire • paper – coloured, patterned, or white if you want to colour the butterflies yourself • colouring pens, glitter (optional) • a needle and some strong thread Cross the sticks over in the middle and fasten them with string or wire to make the frame. Fold a piece of paper in two and draw half a butterfly along the folded edge. Cut around it and open it out. Repeat for lots more butterflies. Decorate them if you wish. Attach a thread to each butterfly using the needle and tie the other end to a stick. Hang up your mobile and admire your cloud of colourful butterflies! The Woodland Trust charity runs its Nature Detectives family offering with lots of idea to get busy and out in nature. You can post pictures on Twitter or Instagram using #NatureDetectives too or visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/ naturedetectives for more activity ideas. You can also find your local Woodland Trust wood at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/ visiting-woods

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Summer The whys and hows of family camping By Andrew Campbell

Summer is the perfect time for camping. But although a family camping trip can be rewarding, for many parents it’s also a daunting prospect. Weigh up the pros and cons with our tips that might make things easier.

Reasons to take your children camping Develops a sense of adventure Going camping is fun – even just for one night. A new environment, unfamiliar sights and sounds, other kids to meet and play with, a tent to help put up and sleeping under the stars all make for a great adventure. Having a sense of adventure promotes a positive outlook and means life stays full of possibilities. Builds resilience Children rarely move out of their comfort zone these days. Working out where to pitch, helping to put up a tent, finding the campsite shop and being sent to pick up supplies, dealing with challenges (broken poles, forgotten tent pegs, bad weather), are great ways of building resilience and confidence. Freedom to explore Having the freedom to play, explore and generally behave the way children should is a

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vital element missing from modern life. Family-friendly campsites provide a safe, and relatively secure environment for children to roam, giving them a sense of freedom. This freedom, combined with a more natural environment, boosts creativity, with children using their imagination rather than a device to play games and entertain themselves. Closer to nature Developing a love and respect of nature is much easier when children get to spend time outdoors, and camping is an excellent way to immerse them in the natural world. Family bonding Camping is a great opportunity to create lasting memories for your child – something unexpected always happens! It takes the whole family to make the camp work. Everyone has a role, everyone can pitch in, and therefore everyone is interacting so much more than if you were in a hotel or apartment.

Tips for camping with children Whilst there may be plenty of good reasons to take your children camping, this doesn’t mean it isn’t challenging. But by following a bit of commonsense advice it can be an enjoyable experience for you too. Conduct a test run Try sleeping in a tent in the garden first. Take notes of things you’ll need on a full-blown trip. Rent a tent Or borrow one. There are a range of companies that hire out camping equipment and deliver it to your door. Many camp sites have ‘ready ‘tents that are already pitched and waiting for you. Don’t overpack You don’t need too many clothes. Leave the “just-in-case” items at home and know that you can re-wear things. Or, pack differently Put together an outfit for each day, roll it up with the smallest

pieces on the inside (socks, underwear) and then secure each outfit roll with a rubber band. When it’s time to get dressed, pull out a roll and you’re set. Saves having to dig through a bag, plus you’ll know you have enough to wear. Pack for all kinds of weather Even if it’s hot during the day, evenings are often cool—so bring an extra layer for night time. Remember rain gear! Unpack and set up camp in daylight Set up the tent first. If you’re planning to cook over a fire, send the kids to gather kindling so you can get it going straightaway. Load up on wipes Bring several packs of baby and antibacterial wipes for those times when you need to clean up the kids but won’t be able to give them a shower. Or, pack extra flannels and flasks of water to reduce your impact on the environment. Take toys In the event of poor weather (or boredom), things like puzzles, cards, travel size board games are useful. For outdoors, bring binoculars, magnifying glass, butterfly net, water guns, chalk, bubbles, buckets and shovels. Prepare snacks and meals beforehand Do as much food preparation for the meals and snacks you intend to cook whilst you are at home in a fully equipped kitchen. Freeze food in zip lock bags. Take glow sticks Great for seeing your kids at night and for hanging on obstacles that are obvious in the day but dangerous at night, such as tree stumps or tent pegs/ ropes. Kids also love them. For child friendly campsites and advice on camping visit www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk

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What’s on Daily in July & Aug

Dunham Massey, Altrincham Percy The Park Keeper – The Treasure Hunt 10.30am – 4pm / All ages / Free, normal admission applies Join Percy the Park Keeper and his animal friends on this nature inspired trail around the garden to discover nature’s treasure. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Thurs 4 July

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Outdoor Theatre – Treasure Island 7 – 9.30pm / Child £11, Adult £16 The much-loved story, adapted for stage in among one of the most beautiful open-air venues. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Thurs 4 – Sat 6 July

East Lancs Railway, Bury Summer Diesel Spectacular An intensive weekend of all diesel passenger services. www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Sat 6 July

Dunham Massey, Altrincham Special Guided Walk – Family Wildlife 11am – 1pm / All ages / Free, normal admission applies / Dogs Welcome Bring all the family to discover Dunham’s deer and other wildlife on an accessible walk around the park. Meet at the clock tower, the walk lasts approx. two hours at a gentle pace. The Secret Garden 6.30 – 8.30pm / All ages / Under 3 free, 3-15 £11, Adults £16 Relive this tale of secrecy and curiosity in what will be one of the highlights of the summer. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events Tatton Park, Knutsford The Tatton Park Stars and Stripes American Car Show 9.30am – 4pm / All ages / Adult £9. Child £6, under 10s FREE. Over 100 memorabilia, American lifestyle and general trade stalls along with the cars. Live music, Wild West Shoot Out, Wall of Death and lots more entertainment for all the family. www.tattonpark.org.uk

These listings are for guidance only – please check before you go To include your upcoming event in our listings, email events@familiescheshire.co.uk or upload your event listing to our website - www.familiesonline.co.uk

Alderley Park, Alderley Edge Splash Out – Francis House 10am – 3.30pm A 5K family fun run with 5 fabulous water obstacles in aid of Francis House. There’ll be lots of entertainment, music, stalls, catering and refreshments available in the ‘event village’ close to the start and finish area. www.francishouse.org.uk

Sat 6 & Sun 7 July

Tatton Park, Knutsford Pigs Galore! 10am – 12pm / Age 12+ / £15 (includes park and farm entry) A special opportunity to gain an insight into pig keeping and care, with our experienced Farm team. Booking essential. 01625 374 428 / www.tattonpark.org.uk/

Sun 7 July

Carnival Fields, Wilmslow Wilmslow Show 11am – 5pm. A Showground full of attractions, with something for everyone. A Dog Show and Competitions for amateur florists, gardeners, crafters and bakers. Craft and Trade Stalls, Charities and Community group stands and lots more. www.wilmslowshow.co.uk

Fri 12 – Sun 14 July

Tatton Park, Knutsford Foodies Festival Fri 11am – 9pm Sat 10am – 9pm Sun 10am – 5pm / Under 12s FREE A mouth-watering summer festival, live music, workshops, masterclasses and Top Chefs. www.foodiesfestival.com

Sat 13 July

Hazel Grove, Stockport Hazel Grove Carnival Parade Start time 12pm / Field Events from 10am Owl display, pony rides, food & drink court, funfair, music festival, inflatables and dog show. www.hazelgrovecarnival.co.uk

Sat 13 & Sun 14 July

Tatton Park, Knutsford Rare Breeds weekend at the Farm 12 – 5pm / Adult £7 Child £5 Meet Molly the Middle White and all of her piggy friends, our Red Poll

Summer at

se Elizabeth Gaskell’s Hou 24 July: Cloudspotting

Look to the sky for inspiration! Cloud poetry writing & painting

31 July: Weaving

Try some stick-weaving and take home a rustic decoration.

7 August: Sketching Nature Be inspired by John Ruskin & try sketching natural objects.

14 August: Making Bees

Make bee decorations from pine cones and wool.

21 August: Making Lavender Bags Create your own fragrant lavender bag.

28 August: Dame Wiggins & Her Cats! Read Ruskin’s whimsical rhymes and make your own origami cat to take home.

£1 for under 16s. £5/£4 for adults. Join us for fun family 84 Plymouth Grove, Manchester, activities every M13 9LW. 0161 273 2215 Wednesday 1-3pm elizabethgaskellhouse.co.uk

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cattle, Leicester Longwool sheep and others. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sun 14 July

Debdale Park, Manchester Gorton Parade and Carnival Start time 10am. A celebration of everything that is great about Gorton. Come and show your support for YOUR community and have a great day out. Vicki.heap. gorton@gmail.com

Wed 17 – Sun 21 July

Tatton Park, Knutsford RHS Flower Show 10am / £34 pp / Discounted tickets online. Vibrant floral displays, stunning gardens and have-a-go workshops there’s plenty of take-home inspiration for your garden. Plus fun family activities, boutique shopping and artisan food. www.rhs.org.uk/shows-events/ rhs-flower-show-tatton-park

Fri 19 July – Wed 4 Sept

Dunham Massey, Altrincham Percy The Park Keeper – Nature’s Treasure 11am – 4pm / All ages / Free event, normal admission applies. Join in with family friendly activities to find out about the amazing animals that call Dunham Massey their home. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Sat 20 July

Macclesfield RUFC Macclesfield Festival 10am – 10pm / Under 4’s FREE The festival is a fabulous day out for both families and music lovers. www.macclesfieldfestival.co.uk

Sat 20 July – Sun 1 Sept

Museum of Science and Industry, Manchester Power Up! Get your game face on and play some of the most popular video games from the past 40 years, from Pong and Pacman to Minecraft and Mario. Hundreds of consoles on offer. www.msimanchester.org.uk

Sat 20 & Sun 21 July

The Whitworth & Whitworth Park Animals of Manchester 10am – 5pm / Free Trace a trail through the Whitworth’s galleries and Whitworth Park and take part in some absorbing animal encounters. Part of the Manchester International Festival. www.mif.co.uk

Sun 21 July

St Ann’s Hospice, Heald Green and Little Hulton Summer Fair £1 entry, children free. Annual summer fairs at two venues, fundraising for the charity. A range of stalls and refreshments as well activites, facepainting, tombola’s and raffles will be on offer. www.sah.org.uk

Mon 22 July – Fri 2 Aug Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Summer Holidays – Find your Styal 11am – 4pm / Free event, normal admission applies. Take part in bird watching workshops, create some wild art and get folding with origami crafts in the mill. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Tues 23 July – Fri 23 Aug Tatton Park, Knutsford Summer Activities at the Farm 12 – 5pm / Normal Admission applies (NT members half price) Learn more about Field to Fork, meet our newly hatched chicks and our new arrivals in our daily farmyard facts. See the mill machines running, storytelling, milking and butter making and more. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Tues & Thurs from 23 July – 29 Aug

Touchstones, Rochdale Challenge Yourself Summer 2019: Challenge Masters 10.30am – 12p, & 1.30 – 3pm / All sessions £4. Challenge yourself this summer with Touchstones’ very own action-packed and family friendly workshops and performances. All designed to test your wits, creativity and sense of adventure! Tues 23 & 30 July, Tues 6,13, 20, 27 Aug: Challenge Master / Age 7+ Thurs 25 July: Storytelling / Age 5+ Thurs 1 Aug: Puppeteering / Age 5+ Thurs 8 Aug: Challenge yourself… Science / Age 5+ Thurs 15 Aug: Challenge yourself… History Detectives / Age 5+ Thurs 22 Aug: Challenge yourself… Yoga / Age 8-12 Thurs 29 Aug: Challenge yourself… Natura / Age 5+ www.link4life.org

Wed 24 – Sun 28 July

Tatton Park, Knutsford Luna Kids Cinema Various times / Several Films / Normal Admission applies. Open air cinema for film fans of all ages with great films for big and little kids alike. From Dumbo to Harry Potter, Peppa Pig to How to Train Your Dragon, there’s a film for everyone! www.lunakidscinema.com

Wed from 24 July – 28 Aug

Elizabeth Gaskell’s House, Manchester 1 – 3pm, drop in / £1 per child, accompanying adult with House ticket 24 July: Cloudspotting – writing poems & painting clouds 31 July: Weaving – try stick-weaving and create a rustic decoration 7 August: Making bees – make pine cone bumble bees 21 August: Lavender Bags – create fragrant lavender bags 28 August: Dame Wiggins & Her Cats – Read Ruskin’s children’s rhymes & make your own origami cat www.elizabethgaskellhouse.co.uk

Thurs 25 July. 1, 15 & 29 Aug

East Lancs Railway, Bury Wizard Academy 10am & 12.45pm / Age 5+ / Booking essential. An interactive adventure where you join quirky costumed characters on a steam train ride, taking part in themed activities and completing the story. www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Sat 27 & Sun 28 July Manchester Central Convention Complex Manchester Comic Con The UK’s BIGGEST Modern

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What’s on

Pop-Culture event returns to Manchester. A blockbuster weekend of everything awesome and geeky. www.mcmcomiccon.com/manchester

Mon 29 July – Fri 2 Aug Lyme Park, Disley Ranger in Training 10am – 12pm & 1 – 3pm / Age 6+ / £5 per child. Learn some of the essential skills needed to become a ranger and care for this special place and the wildlife who call Lyme home. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Mon 29 July – Fri 30 Aug

Jodrell Bank, Cheshire Summer Holidays 11am – 4pm / Normal admission applies. Moon, Rock and Meteorites: All ages. Rocket Lab: Age 7+ Mission to the Moon: Age 7+ Tiny Astronauts: Under 7s www.jodrellbank.net

Wed 31 July – Thurs 1 Aug

Tatton Park, Knutsford The Secret Gnome Trail 10.30am – 12pm & 1 – 2.30pm / Age 3-5 / £12 for 1 adult, 1 child and park entry / Booking essential Help solve a series of tricky clues left by the garden gnomes who have been coming to life at night and causing chaos! www.tattonpark.org.uk

Wed 31 July & Tues 27 Aug

Tatton Park, Knutsford Wand Making Workshop 10am, 11.30am, 2pm & 2.30pm / £5 per child / Booking essential

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If you’re a budding witch, wizard, conjuror or magician, come along to make your own special magic wand in this exciting workshop. You will be taught to use a shave horse and will use this to create your wand. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Thurs 1 Aug

Intu Trafford Centre, Manchester Emergency Services Open Day 10am – 4pm / Free. See a wide range of vehicles, appliances and equipment from the many agencies who work closely together to make Greater Manchester and the North West a safer place. www.manchesterfire.gov.uk

Sat 3 Aug

Tatton Park, Knutsford Tractor Ted on Tour Free, normal admission applies Enjoy all the Farm has to offer this summer along with Tractor Ted, the famous big green Bouncy Castle. Enjoy the Digger Den and Welly Wanging too! www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sat 3 & Sun 4 Aug

East Lancs Railway, Bury A Day out with Thomas 9am – 4pm / All ages / Under 2s free Join Thomas, the number one blue engine, at the East Lancashire Railway for a train ride unlike any other. www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Sat 3 Aug – Sun 1 Sept

The Lowry Quays Theatre We’re Going On A Bear Hunt Join our intrepid family of adventurers and their musical dog on a quest to

find a bear. Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes, plenty of adventure and a few surprises along the way. www.thelowry.com

Sun 4 Aug

Tatton Park, Knutsford Volkswagen North West Car Show 9am – 5pm / Adult £9, under 16s free From Beetles to Golfs, Beach Buggies to Camper Vans. Hundreds of specialist trade stands, children’s rides and entertainment plus much more on the day. A great family day out! www.tattonpark.org.uk

Mon 5 – Fri 16 Aug

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Summer Holidays – If you go down to the woods 11am – 4pm / Free, normal admission applies. In a fun selection of workshops and activities, find out how trees communicate with each other and size up your age with the rings in their trunks. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Tues 6 and 13 Aug

Tatton Park, Knutsford Cave Babies 1.30 – 3pm / Ages 3 – 5 / £12 includes park entry and one child and adult A sensory introduction to the Stone Age ending with an interactive story and song session. Booking essential. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Thurs 8 Aug

Meet our brave Viking explorers at Tatton Old Hall and experience life in their settlement through a range of exciting hands on activities. www.tattonpark.org.uk East Lancs Railway, Bury Fairytale Adventure 10am & 12.45pm / Age 5+. The magical gems of Storybook Land have been stolen by a maurading gang of maleficent malcontents, and your favourite fairy-tale characters need you to join the quest to get them back. Can you learn the knightly know how and the prized princess skills you need to rescue everyone’s happily ever afters? Booking essential. www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Fri 9 Aug

Tatton Park, Knutsford Traditional Tales – Cinderella 10.30am – 12pm / Ages 3 – 5 / £12 per child includes park entry plus one adult. An engaging storytelling tour bringing to life the traditional tale of Cinderella. Booking essential. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sat 10 Aug

Dunham Massey, Altrincham Pride and Prejudice 7 – 9.30pm / All ages / Adult £16, 5-15 £11, Under 5 free. An evening of theatre beneath the stars. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Tatton Park, Knutsford Meet The Vikings 10.30am – 12.30pm / Age 7 – 11 / £12 per child includes park entry, booking essential

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What’s on Sun 11 Aug

Tatton Park, Knutsford Fun Dog Show 12pm start / £2 entry per class / Normal farm entry applies Ten novelty classes. Viking Sunday 12 – 5pm / Adult £7 Child £5 Family £19 Experience combat as well as domestic life, trades and skills such as coin striking and calligraphy. Have a go at archery (small charge), try on armour and enjoy storytelling.www.tattonpark.org.uk

Wed 14 Aug

Tatton Park, Knutsford Tatton’s Fairytale Postman 10.30am – 12pm, 1 – 2.30pm / Ages 3-5 / Booking essential. Tatton Park’s postman has got himself into a muddle! Can you help him deliver his mixed up letters to all the fairytale characters living in our Gardens? www.tattonpark.org.uk

Thurs 15 Aug

Tatton Park, Knutsford The Tatton Teddy Hunt 10.30am – 12pm, 1 – 2.30pm / Ages 3-5 / Booking essential. Tatton’s mischievous teddy bears are playing hide and seek in the Gardens! Can you help us find them all so that they can join in our themed story and rhyme time? www.tattonpark.org.uk

Mon 19 – Thurs 22 Aug

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Go Batty! 7.30 – 9.30pm / Adult £6, Child £3 Head along the River Bollin with our ranger team to find out about our night time residents of the Quarry Bank estate. Includes a tasty bat shaped biscuit! www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Mon 19 – Fri 23 Aug

Lyme Park, Disley Mini Rangers 10am – 3pm / Under 5s / £1 per child per session. Bring your little ones to explore the sights, sounds and smells of Lyme’s woodland. Experiment in our mud kitchen and follow the trail to discover new experiences. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Mon 19 – Fri 30 Aug

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Summer Holidays – Strike a Chord 11am – 5pm / Free, normal admission applies. From musical storytelling to the natural rhythms of the surrounding estate, there’ll be lots to discover and enjoy. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Wed 21 Aug

Tatton Park, Knutsford Adventures in Wonderland 10am – 12pm & 1 – 2.30pm / Ages 7-11 / Booking essential. Solve a perplexing mystery by completing a series of puzzles and riddles, inspired by this classic tale. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Wed 21 & Fri 23 Aug

Lyme Park, Disley Teen Ranger 10am – 1pm / Age 13 - 18 / £5 per child per session. Explore Lyme’s landscape and wildlife and try your hand at being a ranger for the day. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Thurs 22 Aug

East Lancs Railway, Bury Dinky Dinosaur Adventure 10am & 12.45pm / Age 5+. Get set for a real Jurrassic Lark as you join a team of intrepid adventurers and get up close and personal with some friendly baby dinosaurs! Learn all about these prehistoric pre-schoolers from the experts, and maybe even tickle the T-Rex under the chin, as you complete your training as a palaeontologist of the future! www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Fri 23 & Sat 24 Aug

Marketplace Shopping Centre, Bolton Storymakers – The Gingerbread Man Various times / Age 3+ / £5 per child, with 1 free adult per child Stories read aloud by a professional actor plus live music and creative craft activities. www.octagonbolton.co.uk

Fri 23 – Mon 26 Aug

Bolton Food & Drink Festival 2019 A weekend of food, drink, fun, family entertainment and live music. Celebrity chefs Gregg Wallace, The Hairy Bikers and James Martin, as well as Michelin starred chef Michael Caines. www. boltonfoodanddrinkfestival.com

Poynton Showground Poynton Show Mixing traditional agriculture, animals, machinery, horticultural displays with nerve-wracking and hilarious main events, there’s something for everyone. With plenty of marquees to explore, open air daredevil events, cute animals, big tractors, small tractors, it’s a packed and value filled day. www.poyntonshow.co.uk

Sat 24 – Mon 26 Aug

Tatton Park, Knutsford Traditional Country Weekend at the Farm 12 – 5pm / Normal Farm admission applies. A weekend of traditional English fayre and fun. Egg and spoon race, Tug-of-war, Morris dancing and traditional stalls selling local ice-cream and cheeses. Gain an insight into traditional country crafts with the Cheshire Guild of spinners. Learn more about where you food comes from and see our cookery demos. A great day out! www.tattonpark.org.uk

Thurs 29 – Sat 31 Aug

Dunham Massey, Altrincham Summer Nights Film Festival 6.30 – 10.30pm / All ages / Adult £15.50, 5-11 £10.50, under 5s free Thurs 29 Aug: Grease Fri 30 Aug: Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again Sat 31 Aug: Bohemian Rhapsody www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Best days ever

Sat 24 Aug

made at Dunham Massey Go wild in the great outdoors at Dunham Massey this summer. Explore the gardens to find Percy the Park Keeper's treasure, spot deer in the park or get hands-on with the rangers and learn new skills at Ranger Fest. These are the places that make us. nationaltrust.org.uk/Dunham-Massey

18 Families Manchester

familiesonline.co.uk

FRI 23 TO MON 26 AUGUST 2019

Zone Crompton Place Open daily from 10am Children 14 years and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Don’t miss our all new family zone at this year’s festival, offering great, free, activities for the whole family to enjoy. From traditional games including pool, pinball and table football to high tech ‘gaming stations’ and a selfie booth we’re sure the young and the young at heart will love this space! You’ll also find arts and crafts, magic shows and giant games – so there’s plenty of choice. No pre-booking required just turn up (at peak times there may be a wait to access some of the activities).

Thanks to all our partners too!

ITâ€™S ON LIKE COMIC CON 27-28 JULY 2019

MANCHESTER CENTRAL WWW.MCMCOMICCON.COM

@MCMCOMICCON

TICKETS ON SALE NOW KIDS 10 AND UNDER GO FREE