Families Cheshire Issue 33 Jan-Feb 2015

Edition 33 • Jan/Feb 2015

The local magazine for families with children 0-12 years www.familiescheshire.co.uk

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In this issue > Getting boys to read > What to expect from a nursery education > A guide to Independent Schools

Merlin Annual Pass January Sale! A year’s worth of magic from just £99 per person Covering: Poynton, Wilmslow, Alderley Edge, Knutsford, Prestbury, Macclesfield, Congleton, Holmes Chapel, Sandbach, Northwich, Winsford, Crewe, Nantwich, Tarporley, Waverton, Chester and surrounding areas

Education In this issue 02: 02: Education

Cransley School breaks record! The school was awarded its official certificate last month and pupils are looking forward to seeing their record attempt featured in the official Guinness Book of Records. Pictured are some of the pupils who took part along with the certificate.

07: Parents’ place 08: Clubs & classes directory 10: Parties directory 12: What’s on

Happy New Year! It seems that at the beginning of every year we make a promise to ourselves to shout less and cuddle more. And at the end of each year we realise that we’ve not been very successful! The past year brought us its fair share of challenges and losses, but we’re very thankful that it has also brought us new opportunities – if only we could find the time to reach out and grab them! So here’s wishing you all a fabulous family-oriented 2015 and in the words of Oprah Winfrey: “Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.” See you in March!

Caryl Hall

Jayne Keep

Next issue: March/April 2015

Design: Paul Wilson Graphic Design, Congleton. Tel: 07743 111 694, www.withpaul.co.uk

Circulation: 25,000 copies of Families Cheshire are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected shops and other points throughout Cheshire. If you would like free copies for your organisation, please let us know. Contact details: Families Cheshire, 3 Hall Hill, Bollington SK10 5ED Tel: 01625 801 801 www.familiescheshire.co.uk Editorial: editor@familiescheshire.co.uk Advertising/artwork: advertising@familiescheshire.co.uk Events, diary dates, what’s on: events@familiescheshire.co.uk

Print: Bishops Printers, Walton Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO6 1TR Tel: 023 9233 4900 www.bishops.co.uk Families Cheshire is part of the Families group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license. We take every care preparing the magazine, but the publishers and distributors can’t be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences.

Cover photograpy: Monsoon/Accessorize/www.PRshots.com

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Back to school with Explore Learning! Get the new school term off to a great start at Explore Learning. Their tailored courses are designed to support your child to become a confident and engaged learner. Explore Learning centres provide maths, English and 11+ tuition to 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Explore fits easily around family life; the centres are open 7 days a week, with children able to attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis. Call your local centre to book a free trial, or visit www.explorelearning.co.uk

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Cransley School in Great Budworth has officially broken the Guinness World Record® for the ‘Largest Oops Upside Your Head Dance’. The attempt took place at the School’s annual sports day last June with 258 people taking part in the dance. The dance was timed by Mrs Howman and lasted 3 minutes 33 seconds, with Mrs Pargeter leading the dance and calling out move reminders.

School diary dates: Open Day Wednesday January 14th from 1.30pm Entrance Exams 22 January Scholarship Exam 29 January 01606 891 / www.cransleyschool.org

The King’s School’s approach to EYFS By Caroline Hulme-McKibbin, Principal, King’s Infant & Junior Division There is increasing awareness among parents, professionals and policy makers of just how important the early years of education are in supporting a child’s development and shaping their learning. This has led to a much greater focus on the quality of education in the pre-school setting. At King’s, we take our responsibility in these crucial years very seriously in devising a broad curriculum that offers a vast range of learning experiences incorporating the outside classroom and our marvellous Ginko Meadow, as well as trips out in the community to enhance and enrich the children’s learning as they make sense of the world around them. As parents would expect, it is led by experienced teachers and well qualified teaching assistants who treat children as individuals and pitch the learning experiences at a level appropriate to them. The curriculum is child-centred with the children being encouraged to explore and discover whilst also receiving adult focussed teaching in all areas. In this

environment the foundations of Reading, Writing and Maths are laid. In King’s Pre-School, we focus on the core areas of learning; Physical Development, Communication and Language, Personal and Social education but with the experience of the wider curriculum too with specialist teaching in Music and Games including access to dedicated music and sporting facilities on site. This is continued into the Reception class with the wider curriculum playing a more active role and French with a specialist teacher introduced. This results in children being happy, feeling safe and secure, and laying down firm foundations for the future to make a flying start to their learning journey.

Education What to expect from your child’s nursery education

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We’ve all heard about the importance of early years education. Apparently a child who has gone to pre-school has more chance of getting better exam results and ultimately earning higher wages, according to new research undertaken by academics at the Institute of Education. So you send your child to nursery, in the hope that it will improve their education prospects. But what are they actually going to do there all day? They’re not going to tell you! Teenagers struggle enough to recall what’s happened a few hours before, so you can’t expect detailed information from a 3-year-old. To give you some idea of what will happen, you can look at the legal requirements for nurseries in the UK. The Early Years Foundation Stage framework is a document that sets out the statutory welfare and developmental goals for children 5 years and under. It gives guidelines for safety and learning and development for all early years providers - all nurseries, child minders, playgroups, preschools and reception classes. The EYFS explained The EYFS framework document can seem daunting, but it’s there to ensure that all children receive a suitable level of care. It sets out the legal requirements that keep your child safe and promote their welfare. This includes: • basic checks, such as staff security checks • setting the number of children each member of staff can look after • ensuring the facilities and equipment are safe and suitable • checking the quality of the environment, e.g. recommending access to outdoor space

It also covers the seven areas of learning and development. These are: • communication and language • physical development • personal, social and emotional development • literacy • mathematics • understanding the world • expressive arts and design The activities they will do at nursery, to support their learning and development will be unique to your child’s needs. They’ll learn by playing and exploring, being active, and through creative and critical thinking which takes place both indoors and outside. There is a requirement for ‘continuous provision’, which in layman’s terms means that there needs to be high quality resources and activities available all of the time, so your child can learn through play in lots of different ways. Assessment The EYFS also lays out guidelines for assessment of your child’s progress. Soon after your child turns 2, you’ll get a written summary of how your child is progressing in communication and language, physical development and personal, social and emotional development. Any areas where they need extra help or support will be highlighted at this stage. The next written assessment will come when your child is 5, usually at the end of their reception year, which is the last year they are classed as being in early years education. This will include assessment of skills such as writing their name, reading and talking about a favourite book, speaking to people your child is not so familiar with or their understanding of numbers. The school will give you a progress report including some of this information. How will I know how my child is doing? Your child will have a ‘key person’ at nursery, pre-school or reception class, who is responsible for putting together information on how they are developing. This person will be your main point of contact, and it’s important that you work together and communicate well. Any worries about your child should be discussed with their key worker, and they will be able to build on what your child is learning at home.

Look at the full document here: www.gov.uk/government/publications/early-years-foundation-stage-framework--2 For a detailed parent’s guide to the EYFS go to: www.foundationyears.org.uk/files/2014/08/EYFS_Parents_Guide-amended.pdf For more general advice for parents: www.ndna.org.uk/parents

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Education A parent’s guide to Independent schools (4-13 years) By Hannah Hunter

We all want to give our children the best start in their educational life. If you can afford it, the independent sector provides an alternative to the state system, which can often operate like a postcode lottery. An increasing number of parents are looking at the independent sector – a report from the association of Teachers and Lecturers shows numbers rising at their fastest rate since 2008. A variety of Independent schools An independent school is a school that is free to operate outside of many of the rules and regulations of the state system (there are, of course, statutory education, health and safety standards). Independent schools are also fee-paying, and governed

by an elected board. Within the umbrella term of ‘independent’, you will find an array of different types of schools. Pre-prep is the name sometimes given to schools which cater for infant aged children (4-7), that usually are feeder schools for a prep (preparatory) school (for 8-13 year-olds, and sometimes younger). The preparatory school takes its name from its original function of preparing pupils for entrance to senior schools. This might be a ‘public’ school – the older private schools, whose name derives from the fact that they are open to the public (providing they can pay the fees of course!). You will also find different kinds of Independent schools that will cater for infant and junior-aged children. These

Primary schools to provide nursery places

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Childcare Minister, Sam Gyimah, is encouraging more primary and infant schools to offer nursery education.

Currently 44% of [English] primary and infant schools offer nursery places, with only a few hundred taking 2-year-olds. In a speech to the Policy Exchange, the minister claimed that: “those schools who do offer nursery provision are seeing some big benefits. Children’s behaviour and attainment improves, schools get to know children and their parents earlier on, offering them the tailored support they need, sooner.”

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include schools with different learning styles, such as Montessori schools (often for younger children) and Steiner schools. Why choose an independent school? Independent schools can offer smaller class sizes, meaning more time for oneto-one attention, helpful for children with learning difficulties or other additional needs. Teachers have time to challenge more able children - prep schools often have specific gifted programmes. Their better working conditions, with more resources and higher salaries, mean that independent schools can attract the best teachers. There is also a higher staff to pupil ratio, on average about 1:10 (it’s around 1:20 at state primaries), giving staff and pupils more time to get to know one another. If you’re looking at an independent secondary school, a pre-prep will ensure that your child gets the best out of their common entrance exam (necessary in getting a scholarship or bursary). In grammar schools areas, these schools may also offer preparation for the 11+. It’s not just the academic children who will benefit from what a prep school offers. Sport is taken very seriously, and they will offer a wide range, from rugby to badminton. They also cater for other interests, offering a variety of extracurricular activities, such as dance, drama and music, which you might not be able to access in the state system. How to find a school Your first port of call should be the government’s database of all UK schools, which allows you to search by area and type (private or state funded). You might want to look at this early on – according to

the Good Schools Guide, getting a place can be cutthroat: ‘For a small number of schools (mostly in or near to London) the only way to gain a place is to register your child’s birth then head straight to the school and etch their name on the waiting list; try not to deliver in July/August - places are likely to have been nabbed by autumn births.’ Expect an interview, even for early years places – this is likely to involve some sort of assessment of basic speech, interaction and social skills. By age 7 or 8 you might expect a test of Maths and English ability, possibly with an IQ test. This could be accompanied by a school visit, to assess how your child will be placed at the school. As with any school, you should make appointments to visit the school and check their inspection reports (these may be delivered by the Independent Schools Inspectorate, or Ofsted). Useful links Government school search www.gov.uk/find-school-in-england Independent Schools Inspectorate www.isi.net Ofsted www.ofsted.gov.uk Independent Schools Council www.isc.co.uk Independent Association of prep schools iaps.uk Good Schools Guide www.goodschoolsguide.co.uk Advice on choosing a prep school www.telegraph.co.uk/education /9264856/How-to-choose-the-perfectprep-school-for-your-child.html

5 year-old boys are still catching up with girls in literacy and numeracy According to teachers’ assessment of children’s progress at the end of the Early Years Foundation Stage last year, there is still a gender divide in pupil’s attainment. The level of development for all 5-year-olds was up by 8 percentage points from last year to 60%. In 2013-2014, fewer boys than girls met the expected levels in writing, reading and maths – 69% of five-year-old girls achieved a good level of development overall, compared with only 52% of boys.

Education

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Education Getting boys to read By Liz Walker, founder of Reading Chest

Research by Save the Children in the recently published ‘Read on Get on’ report (published Sept 2014) shows that there are currently more boys unable to read well at the age of 11 than girls. Even though girls generally read better than boys internationally, the gap between boys’ and girls’ reading abilities in the UK is one of the widest in the developed world. In 2013, only 72% of boys were reading well by the age of 11 compared to 78% of girls. Following the Save the Children report, the ‘Read on Get on’ Campaign was launched in September 2014 with the goal of ensuring all 11 year olds will leave primary school being able to read well by 2025. (Reading well is a ‘level 4’ at school, or in real life terms – it is being able to enjoy stories such as Treasure Island or Harry Potter, as well as confidently being able to enjoy reading in a wide range of subjects.) We need to do more to get boys reading and more importantly – get them reading for pleasure. There is a virtuous circle between enjoying reading and being a good reader. Developing a love of stories and books is crucial. All the ideas and strategies shared here

to get boys reading more can obviously to apply to girls as well. • Read for at least 10 minutes a day with or to your children. Frequent short bursts are better than prolonged reading sessions. If it becomes as much of a routine as putting on socks, then reluctant readers are less likely to complain. • Read anything. Boys are more likely to enjoy reading if they can choose their own reading material and read for a purpose. Try gadget magazines, skateboard magazines, golf magazines, farming magazines, football programmes or sports biographies. • Get dads reading in the home! ‘Read on Get on’ research shows that the impact of parents and in particular dads, has a huge positive impact on children’s reading. Children fall into reading habits based on what goes on in their home. If they never see their dad or older brother reading, they are much less likely to pick up a book themselves. • Get dads into schools! Many schools and organisations such as Beanstalk encourage volunteer readers to help with children’s reading (there are

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details of how you can volunteer at www.readongeton.org.uk). It’s not easy for working people to take time out to help with reading in school, but employers are being encouraged to get involved with ‘Read on Get on’ by forming partnerships with local schools and being more flexible with employees to allow them to volunteer to help with reading. Imagine the impact when boys in a school see a real builder with his hard hat on reading with a child, because his employer allowed him to extend his lunch by half an hour. • Boys are more likely to be embarrassed to read or be seen to enjoy reading than girls, as it is seen as un-cool. Boys need ‘cool’ role models, to be seen reading, to talk about books and to get involved in reading projects in schools. Get your son to write to sports personalities, celebrities or authors to see if they will visit their school. They might be quite receptive with an active campaign going on. • Integrate reading into everyday life as much as possible. Ask your son to help you read instructions, or get him to read out the recipe as you are cooking. When out shopping recently, I was heartened to see a dad and son who kept stopping, as the dad got his son to read out various signs and captions in the department store.

• Time pressured parents need to rethink how they enjoy their time with boys. If you only end up with half an hour of one-to-one time with your son, then reading a book together should be given as much priority and time as kicking a ball in the back garden. • If nothing else works – use incentives! Being able to read well at the age of 11 is the keystone to a good start in life. Children need to ‘learn to read’ and then they ‘read to learn’. There is something we can all do to get involved with ‘Read on Get on’ and help reach the goal of ensuring all 11 year olds (especially boys) will read well by 2025. I launched Reading Chest in 2010 when my own son started to learn to read. He found reading difficult and so it wasn’t long before he didn’t enjoy it. At the point when his school ran out of books because he hadn’t made enough progress to move up to the next colour band, I searched for appropriately levelled reading books that might inspire him and the idea of Reading Chest began. Reading Chest is a “through the post” children’s book rental service for children, offering a huge range of reading schemes including many non-fiction titles. For more information and reading advice visit www.readingchest.co.uk.

Parents’ place Need some va-va-voom in the New Year? We all know what it’s like to feel exhausted, especially when it’s associated with stress or a busy lifestyle. Coping with this every day can be very challenging, which is partly why 49% of the British adult population complain they suffer regularly from fatigue, tiredness or lack of energy. Pharmaton Vitality Capsules are packed with vitamins, minerals and the unique Ginseng G115 that’s clinically proven to relieve fatigue and also aid mental and physical wellbeing. Formulated for short term use (maximum of 12 weeks daily use), they help reduce temporary tiredness and restore vitality. They can also be used for the prevention and treatment of symptoms caused by an

unbalanced diet. Pharmaton Vitality Capsules are a licensed medicine for the relief of fatigue. Always read the label.

Free childcare to double The number of 2 year olds eligible for free childcare is to double this winter, as around 40% will now be entitled to 15 hours of free early education per week, up from 20% last year. ‘Giving a helping hand to families that need it most will mean thousands more children get a brighter start in life,’ said Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg. ‘We are doubling the number of free childcare places for two-year-olds. All parents need to do to check if they qualify is contact their local authority or children’s centre.’ Childcare and Education Minister Sam Gyimah added, ‘We know that good quality early education can make a huge difference in levelling the playing field and improving a child’s life chances. This free childcare entitlement gives children crucial support that could make all the difference to how well they do at school and beyond. I encourage parents who think their toddler may be eligible to check this and make sure they don’t miss out.’ Find out whether your child is eligible at www.gov.uk/freechildcare

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Clubs & classes directory BABIES Baby Sensory East Cheshire Sensory development activities for babies in from birth to 13 months in Adlington, Romiley, Wilmslow and Woodford. Becky: 07503 547083 / eastcheshire@babysensory.co.uk www.babysensory.co.uk Baby Sensory Stimulate the senses and help your baby develop. Cheadle & Stockport – Lindsay 07590 916004 Chester & The Wirral – Steph: 07814 941048 Congleton – Jayne 07972 105966 Nantwich, Crewe & Homes Chapel – Linda: 07745 353836 Warrington & Lymm – Laura 07503 547083 www.babysensory.co.uk Jolly Jacks, Bollington Multi-sensory activity classes for 3 months to three years, promoting babies’ development through natural and instinctive exploration in a safe environment. Birthday parties and School Holiday Family Fun classes also available. 07958 807 573 / www.jollyjacks.org Rhythm Time Early learning through music – for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers. Mid/ East Cheshire – Frances: 01270 884583 South Manchester – Kimberley: 01625 533510 www.rhythmtime.net Sing and Sign Baby Signing Classes in Chester and the Wirral. Rachel: 01244 372970 / www.singandsign.com TinyTalk Baby signing and singing classes (0-18 months) - see listing under LANGUAGE.

COOKING Speckled Hen Cookery School Child and parent/child cooking classes in Holmes Chapel. Learn all about the food you cook – where the ingredients come from and how to cook the recipes. 01477 537583 / www.speckled-hen.co.uk

DANCE

Baby Ballet Ballet and Tap for ages 2 - 4 on Tuesdays in Bollington.01625 574774 / www.bollingtonleisure.co.uk Baby Ballet Ballet & tap classes for 18 months - 4 years in Wilmslow & Handforth Miss Michelle: 07725 878515 www.babyballet.co.uk

Dancingkidz School of Dance Dancingtots, Ballet, Streetdance, Musical Theatre and Zumbatomic classes in Northwich. Sharon: 07834 612303 / www.dancingtots.co.uk Diddi Dance Funky dance classes for 2-4 year olds. Chester & Surrounds – Danielle: 07870 664734 South Cheshire & Surrounds – Emma: 07792 500981 South Manchester – Lisa: 07966 542985 www.diddidance.com Footloose Dance Academy Ballet, Tap & Freestyle dance classes in Bollington. 07951 054547 / www.footloosedanceacademy.co.uk Pointe Works Royal Academy of Dance Ballet lessons held weekly in Tarporley & Eaton. Suitable for Children aged 3+. Classes split into academic years. ISTD Modern Jazz lessons suitable for Children aged 5+. For more info please contact Nicolle – 07900 303966, nicolle@pointeworks.co.uk or visit www.pointeworks.co.uk Quicksteps Dance Melody Bear dance classes for ages 18 months - 8 yrs in Northwich. Also wide range of dance styles for all ages. 07816 973 600 / 07970 23342 / www.quickstepdance.co.uk

LANGUAGE

Talking Tots Fun, interactive classes that help pre-school children communicate with confidence. Cheadle, Wilmslow & Hale - Debbie: 07899 801186 South Manchester & Stockport – Siân: 07794 433179 / www.talkingtots.info TinyTalk Baby Signing & Singing classes (0-18mth). Learn baby signing the fun way through singing nursery rhymes, action songs, story time and sensory activities. TinyTalk Toddler classes (18mth +) continue the fun developing confidence with speech & communication skills. Wilmslow, Macclesfield & Frodsham - Claire 07771 747755 Northwich & Knutsford - Jenny 07968 110670 Congleton & Holmes Chapel - Liz 07815 106693 www.tinytalk.co.uk

MUSIC & SOCIAL

Jo Jingles Music, singing and movement classes for babies and young children. North East Cheshire – Laura 0161 431 0674 South Manchester: Jacqui 01925 269136 Mid Cheshire – Eve: 01928 739966 www.jojingles.com

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Jabberjacks A fun activity pre-school class which helps develop social and physical skills for children aged between 6 months* and 4 years. Using a unique combination of puppets and music, against a backdrop of drama and play we ensure all activities delivered in our classes are stimulating and interactive supporting EYFS. Whilst playing and having fun, children: Engage their senses / Explore their Imagination / Develop co-ordination skills / Socialise and communicate with confidence / learn to listen and follow direction / Experience caring and sharing! To find out more or book a place contact wendy@jabberjacks.co.uk or call 07519 238263.

Stagecoach Theatre Arts School Performing arts for ages 4 – 18. Altrincham – Marion: 01925 222445 Chester – Karen/Lindsay: 01244 316187 Congleton & Macclesfield – Julie: 01782 777 345 Didsbury – Anne: 0161 789 1349 Northwich – Susan: 01606 45132 Nantwich – Adele: 01782 397866 Stockport – Cathy: 0161 864 3974 Wilmslow – Laura: 01606 620770 www.stagecoach.co.uk

Jolly Jacks, Bollington See listing under Babies section Music Bugs Interactive music classes for newborn – 4 years. Classes in Cheadle, Hulme, Wilmslow, Hale, Sale & Knutsford. 0844 822 1175 / www.musicbugs.co.uk Rhythm Time See listing under Babies section

The Actors’ Lab Saturday Drama and Musical Theatre classes in the heart of Wilmslow for 6 - 11 and 12 - 17 year olds. Classes nurture talent whilst developing imagination and building confidence through performance games, improvisation and script work. Outstanding tuition and unrivalled professionalism, taught by actors from stage and screen. FREE taster session for all new students. Call to book 01625 533433. info@theactorslab.co.uk / www.theactorslab.co.uk

PERFORMING ARTS

SPORTS & ACTIVITIES

LIPA 4:19 Affiliated with the prestigious ‘Paul McCartney Fame School LIPA’, LIPA 4:19 Knutsford is a part time Performing Arts Academy offering classes in Acting, Dancing and Singing for Children aged 4 to 19. To book your free trial contact Alison & Becci on 07508 808385 or email lipa4-19knutsford@live.co.uk. www.lipa.ac.uk Razzamataz Affordable performing arts training in Chester which combines Musical Theatre styles with fast and funky Commercial styles. For ages 4 to 18. 01244 470104 / www.razzamataz.co.uk

A-Star Sports A fun-filled multi-sports experience for children aged 2-10 years offering inclusive, developmental coaching in a positive environment. Parties, holiday clubs and events also available. Contact Sharon or Gary Bassett via T: 07932 182148 / 07796 190169 E: sharon.bassett@a-starsports.co.uk. W: www.a-starsports.co.uk/local-classes/ chester-surrounding-area F: www.facebook.com/AStarSports.Chester Gymbabes/Tumble Tots/Gymbobs Classes to develop children’s physical skills of agility, balance, co-ordination and climbing. Chester – Paul: 07873 114596 www.tumbletots.com Little Superstars Unique, fun and active multi sport sessions for children from walking age upwards to develop their fundamentals i.e. balls skills, hand and eye coordination, balance, flexibility and agility. Louise: 07904 344552 / www.littlesuperstars.co.uk Rugbytots A fun and enjoyable environment to develop basic core motor skills. Classes are geared towards children aged 2 – 7 years. South East Cheshire – Alick: 0845 313 6720 North Cheshire/Greater Manchester – Michele: 0845 313 3255 Mid Cheshire – Olly: 0845 313 6705 Chester/Wirral: 0845 313 3254 www.rugbytots.co.uk Tennis Tykes An educational tennis play and skills programme for children aged 2-5 years old. All classes are run by qualified and trained staff, use specially adapted equipment with personal achievement charts for every child. Classes across South Manchester and Cheshire. Jonny: 07760 254118 / www.tennistykes.co.uk

Clubs & classes directory Diddikicks Football coaching for 18 months - 5 years in Wilmslow, Worsley & Sale 0161 300 4665 / www.diddikicks.co.uk Premier Football Coaching After school clubs across Cheshire East. 01625 415151 / www.premierfc.com Little Kickers At Little Kickers, the focus is on fun, as football is used as a forum to instil a little extra confidence, co-ordination, control and sense of camaraderie. Classes run in four distinct age groups, to maximise involvement and development. Age groups range from just 2 years to 7 years. Classes in Alderley Edge & Knutsford. Fiona: 01625 326177 / www.littlekickers.co.uk Little Sports Coaching Fun football coaching and Rhythmix dance sessions for boys and girls aged 3+ in Wilmslow, Sale & Cheadle. Sports, Dance, Football or Gymnastics party options also available. 0800 032 1806 / www. littlesportscoaching.co.uk

Horseriding

My Little Pony Parties Mini Pony Toddlers mornings on selected Wednesdays, Mini Pony Club on Thursdays during school holidays. See website for details and contact Sarah-Jane for all bookings. Like the Facebook page to keep up-to-date with all events. 01625 569004 / www.mylittleponyparties.com / www.facebook.com/MyLittlePonyParties

Martial arts

Young Yanagi, Handforth Great for kids from 4 to 12 to learn balance, coordination, team work and self defence in a fun, safe environment. Based on Japanese Jujutsu, children can grade for belts in the art if they wish. Thurs from 4:30pm to 5:30pm, £15 / month. Michelle 07921 162007 / Youngyanagi.yanagiryu.co.uk

Swimming

Brio Swim Swimming classes at Leisure Centres in Chester, Northwich, Winsford, Neston & Ellesmere Port. 01244 377086 ex 201 / www.brioleisure.org Macclesfield Amateur Swimming Club For ages 3 - 93! Non-profit organisation run by dedicated, fully ASA qualified volunteers with many years’ experience. Tuesday nights 7 - 9pm, Macclesfield Leisure Centre.01625 617960 / www.maccswim.co.uk Macclesfield Satellites Learn to swim at Macclesfield Leisure Centre; lessons on Saturday & Sunday mornings. 10% 2nd child discount available. Emma: 07749 546307 / swimclass@swimsatellite.co.uk / www.swimsatellite.co.uk Kinder Swim Academy Fun and stimulating lessons for birth – 15 years, giving both children and their parents confidence in the water. Kath / Sharon: 07907 263423 / www.kinderswim.co.uk

Puddle Ducks Fun and friendly swimming classes for babies, toddlers and primary school age children across Cheshire. Join small, structured swimming classes (up to 8 children), at any age from birth to ten, no matter what your child’s experience or ability. Mid Cheshire – Jo / Jess: 01477 410080 South Cheshire – Jessica / Emma: 07429 892774 Chester – Kerry: 01829 740825 www.puddleducks.com Total Fitness Swimming lessons for all ages (including non members) in Altrincham, Chester, Crewe & Wilmslow. Also private lessons and intensive swimming lessons through out the school holidays. www.totalfitness.co.uk Turtle Tots You are welcome to join a Turtle Tots baby swimming class at any time from when your baby is newborn, until they are 18 months old. East Cheshire & South Manchester Jill: 07815 412157 West Cheshire & North Wales Kim: 07793 743678 www.turtletots.com Water Babies Specialised swimming courses for babies 0 – 2 years. Mid & East Cheshire – Anna: 01270 611111. Chester, Liverpool & Wirral – Alison: 01925 243643 / www.waterbabies.co.uk

SUPPORT

Kumon Kumon’s unique programmes complement the school curriculum and provide far more than just maths or English tuition. They cater for your child’s individual needs, allowing them to study at a rate that is just right for them and eventually to take responsibility for their own learning. Chester North – Janet: 0151 339 0382 Knutsford – Sue: 01565 621142 Macclesfield - Amanda: 01625 267800 Nantwich – Sarah: 01270 780810 Warrington, Great Sankey – Jane: 01925 419599 Wilmslow – Ian: 01625 532529 www.kumon.co.uk​

Louise Lasky Tutoring KS1and KS2 tutor, including 11 plus, private entrance exams and study skills. 07977 459193 / louf1@hotmail.com Northwich Dyslexia Centre One to one multi-sensory tuition for reading and spelling difficulties, suitable for all ages. Computerised specialist programme delivered by experienced, sympathetic tutors. Lessons at Barnton Memorial Hall. 01829 751730 / www.northwichidl.co.uk SEN Voice Advice, representation and support for carers and pupils, aiming to get you the support that’s required, not just what’s being offered. A cost-effective service with a FREE initial consultation. Over forty years experience in SEN appeals and tribunals. www.sen-voice.co.uk / 0161 928 9581 The English Zone Online English tuition zone based on that national Curriculum. Lessons for children from Reception to Year 11. 01942 814126 / www.the-english-zone.com

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Football

15% OFF

your first term’s fees on presentation of this voucher when joining Tumble Tots Chester. Voucher Code: FC01 This voucher has no monetary value and is valid until 28 Feb 2015. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. The original voucher must be used, photocopies will not be accepted.

MOSAIC Children’s Therapy Centre Independent occupational, speech-language, social / emotional / behavioural and play therapy services for children and young people with additional needs. 01606 40195 / www.mosaicchildrenstherapy.co.uk Explore Learning Maths & English tuition centres for 5-14 year olds. Children become members and attend once or twice a week for sessions that last approximately 1¼ hours. Every centre is open 7 days a week, no advance booking necessary. Altrincham: 0161 241 0006 Cheadle Hulme: 0161 669 8140 Chester: 01244 343 433 Heaton Park: 0161 669 4839 Warrington: 01925 747123 www.explorelearning.co.uk

To be included or to update your details in our directory, please call 01625 801801 or email editor@familiescheshire.co.uk

Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk 9

Parties directory ANIMALS

Cheshire Pony Parties, Chester Exclusive pony parties and priceless memories in an idyllic orchard or in your garden – children groom, pamper, paint and ride our ponies. Parties for up to 20 children, ages 2 – 10. 01829 741919 / Amanda@ CheshirePonyParties.co.uk www.cheshireponyparties.co.uk/ponypartyintheorchard.php Chester Zoo Build your perfect party from our choice of packages - for up to 12 children. Includes full day’s admission to the zoo and private rental of the Jungle Den. 01244 650 209 / www.chesterzoo.org My Little Pony Parties, Adlington American miniature horses with the perfect temperament for children’s parties. Dress the ponies with bows and ribbons and paint their hooves with glitter, take them round an obstacle course and walk to the river and return to the farm for party food and cake. Indoor party options also available. 01625 569004 / www.mylittleponyparties.com / www.facebook.com/MyLittlePonyParties The Creepy Crawly Show A wild and exciting animal road show presented in a fun way by comical rangers. 01244 646 045 / www. thecreepycrawlyshow.co.uk

BOUNCY CASTLES & PARTY TENTS Funstuff for parties Bouncy castle, obstacle course, party tents and party bags. 01625 614803 or 07958 429478 / www.funstuff-for-parties.co.uk

FOOD

Advertise in Families Cheshire Call Jayne on: 01625 801801 or email advertising@familiescheshire.co.uk

10 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

Scrumptious Party Food Healthy, homemade party food with some naughty-but-nice treats! Cake pops, gingerbread people and party bags available as well as an adult menu. 01829 759287 / www.scrumptiouspartyfood.co.uk

CLIMBING CENTRES & INDOOR ADVENTURE

Awesome Walls, Stockport, Stoke on Trent & Liverpool. www.awesomewalls.co.uk Chill Factore, Urmston Parties for all ages from 2+ in breathtaking surroundings with exhilarating activities. 0161 749 2222 / www.chillfactore.com Rope Race Climbing Centre, Marple Kids rock climbing (age 5+) or archery (age 8+) parties. 0161 426 0226 / www.roperace.co.uk Silver Blades Ice Rink, Altrincham An icy party including skate hire, invitations, food and party bags. 08700 85 29 29 / www. altrinchamicedome.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENT A-star Sports Sporty party entertainment in Chester and surrounds, including ‘playground games’ for younger children, other sports for ages 7+. 07932 182148 / 07796 190169 / www.a-starsports.co.uk Battlefield Live, Manchester The ultimate outdoor laser combat game for ages 7+. No pain, paint or impact - parties and mission based group sessions in an enclosed wood with bunkers, trails and hideaways. 07956 557653 / www.battlefield-manchester.com Battlefield Live, Knutsford Do you want an action packed party with a difference? Become a Marine for the day and challenge your friends to the ultimate battle. Playing in exclusive woodland and using the very latest infra-red gaming guns as used by the Military for Combat Training. You will fight alongside your team in defeating the enemy and winning the Battle. Will you be the hottest Sniper in your Squadron? Ideal for Birthday Parties of all ages from 7 upwards. www.battlefieldliveknutsford.co.uk Brookside Pottery The Potter’s Wheel experience offers pottery painting and a train ride on the miniature railway. You supply the food, they supply the rest. 07946 637499 / www.brooksidepottery.com

Parties directory Cheshire Cat Crafts Fun and creative mobile birthday parties for children aged 3 years upwards throughout Cheshire, the Wirral and North Wales. Party packages suitable for all ages and budgets. 07871 521 637 www.cheshirecatcrafts.co.uk Delamere Forest Explorers Forest Fun (3-5 yrs), Fairies and Wizards (3-5 yrs, April-Sept only), Minibeast Hunting (3-12 yrs, March-Oct only), Den building (6-12 yrs) or Bushcraft (8-12 yrs) parties. Decorated classroom hire and invitation templates included. Catering, cakes and party bags available if required. 07808 506308 / www.forest-explorers.co.uk Diddi Dance Fun, affordable parties for tots (2 – 4) at your choice of location – dancing games, action songs,hoops, dance ribbons, bubbles, balloons, bells and lots of fun!! Chester & Surrounds – Danielle: 07870 664734 South Cheshire & Surrounds – Emma: 07792 500981 South Manchester – Lisa: 07966 542985 www.diddidance.com Faktory Studios, Great Barrow, Chester A professional recording studio with a twist. Parties for all ages: Birthday, Hen, Stag, Christmas etc. A unique party experience includes full Disco with karaoke, professional group recordings including mixing and mastering, a CD of your recordings for everybody and full use of the dining area. 07581 117884 / www.faktorystudios.co.uk Gigglepop Art, themed or traditional parties in your home or choice of venue hosted by professional party leaders. 07779 935638 / www.gigglepop.co.uk Go Kiddy Karts, Didsbury & Urmston Indoor parties for boys and girls aged 4 – 9.07956 557653 / www.go-kiddy-karts.co.uk Jo Jingles, Music, singing and movement parties for children up to 5 years. North East Cheshire: Laura: 0161 4310674 Mid Cheshire – Eve: 01928 739966 South Manchester – Jacqui: 01925 269136 www.jojingles.com Jolly Jacks, Bollington Suitable for birth - 3 years. A fun, structured, group activity, followed by age appropriate activity games and messy, multi-sensory free play. 07958 807573 / www.jollyjacks.org Jabberjacks Looking for a unique and special party that will keep the children and parents talking for weeks? Playmates parties especially for 2, 3 & 4 year olds. Be amazed as the children discover the puppets, bubbles, teddies, games and activities all hidden in a treasure box. Juniors parties designed for 5, 6 & 7 year olds. Crazy dancing to the latest tracks, Wacky Games, Funky prizes and party bags! Jabberjacks provides a hassle free party package! If you would like to know more, simply visit www.jabberjacks.co.uk/chester Or contact Wendy on 07519238263. Little Sports Coaching Sports, Dance, Football or Gymnastics party options with professionally qualified coaches for boys and girls aged 3+. 0800 032 1806 / www.littlesportscoaching.co.uk Little Superstars Multi-sports, cheerleading, dance or individual sport parties for ages 3 – 11 across Cheshire. 07904 311552 / www.littlesuperstars.co.uk Little Fingers Arts & Crafts Fun, creative parties for children aged 2 - 9 years. Let them create a masterpiece to take home! Catering and free invitations also available. 07956 557653 / www.littlefingers-crafts.com

Mother Hen Creative, Tailor made parties for ages 4 – 8. Interactive storytelling revolving around the birthday child – a jam packed fun filled magical, personal experience. 07587 191394 / www.motherhencreative.com Much Ado Workshops Inspirational parties that take children on an adventure of the imagination involving drama, dance, music, craft activities, traditional party games with a twist and lots of silliness. A unique and inspirational, themed and tailor made party just for you. 0844 288 9805 / info@muchadoworkshops.co.uk / www.muchadoworkshops.co.uk Oliver’s Chocolate Parties Chocolate parties provide mouth watering, creative fun for any age or occasion. 07540 615966 / www.oliverschocolateparties.co.uk Party with a Princess Looking for a magical party this year? Why not have a real-life princess to entertain your guests? We can tailor any package to suit your perfect party plans! Beckie: 07821 489656 / www.partywithaprincess.co.uk Petite Pamper Parties Truly magical fairy, princess and Frozen themed parties for age 4+. Glitter, sparkle & shine parties for age 8+. Party bags included. 07980 284411 / amy@petitiepamperparties.co.uk / www.facebook.com/petitepamperparties Quadraphoenia, Adlington Children’s quad bike parties for ages 6 – 12. 01625 871384 / www.childrens-quadbike-party.co.uk Ranger Dan Woodland birthday parties with Cheshire’s favourite ranger. A range of fun outdoor activities and games, with food cooked over an open fire. 07765 890385 / www.rangerdan.co.uk Razzamataz, Chester Street Dance, Pop Singing, Drama and Musical Theatre parties to make sure your child is centre stage on his/her birthday! 01244 470104 / www.razzamataz.co.uk Splat Creative Crafts (messy or not) and games galore parties across the North West. 01477 532119 / www.splatcreative.co.uk Speckled Hen Children’s Parties, Holmes Chapel Baking and Cupcake Parties including a traditional party tea or lunch. Baking Parties for ages 6+: bake a cake from scratch, decorate a cake box and a biscuit. Cupcake Parties for older children: bake your cupcakes and learn different techniques for creating the luscious, edible cupcake toppings, creating patterns and decorations. All ingredients and materials provided. Children’s Cookery Courses also available. 01477 537583 / www.speckledhenparties.co.uk Tumble Tots Britain’s leading physical play programme for children aged 6 months to 7 years available for parties! Chester – Paul: 07873 114596 www.tumbletots.com

Fun4All, Chester & Macclesfield A variety of party options in a spacious indoor venue. Laser, Bear making, Sports, Karaoke, Dance, Themed and VIP parties available.Chester: 01244 379458 Macclesfield: 01625 440044 / www.fun4all.co.uk Funky Monkey Café, Nantwich Great craft or cupcake decorating parties with lots of play and fabulous food. Homemade food also available for parties in your home/venue of choice. 07846 296882 Funkytown, Chester Indoor Adventure Play & Party Centre with a Sensory Room based right in the heart of Chester. Various party options available to suit all budgets. 01244 377229 / www.funkytownplay.co.uk Funsters, Crewe Indoor play centre for children up to age 12 with standard or Gokart parties available 7 days a week. A variety of balloons also available for sale. 01270 500525 / www.funstersplaycentres.co.uk The Ice Cream Farm, Tattenhall. The Ice Cave, private party rooms, outdoor activities (week days only) and playbarn. The Loft - state of the art games room for older children. Party food available or bring your own. 07570 774 491 / www.cheshirefarmicecream.co.uk Kids Go Karting, Stockport Go karting in a safe environment on a purpose built track for ages 3 – 10. Exclusive use of venue during the party. 07544 424 212 / www.kidsgokarting.uk.com Jump Nation, Trafford Park Europe’s largest indoor trampoline area. Unique parties for every occasion - food and drinks included.0161 710 2360 / www.jumpnation.com Legoland Discovery Centre, Manchester Full use of all activities as well as a private party room, food and cake. 0844 844 8181 / www.legolanddiscoverycentre.co.uk Little Big Heads, Wilmslow Fairy Tea Party, Belle of the Ball, Princess&Pirates or Disco Diva options hosted by friendly staff. Party bags and a special gift for the birthday girl. 01625 548326 / www.littlebigheads.co.uk Manchester Museum Celebrate your birthday with Stan, the T-Rex & friends. Birthday parties for ages 0 - 6 and 7 - 11 that are full of hands-on activities. Max 15 children & 15 adults. Available Sat & Sun 10am or 2pm. Bookings must be made at least one month in advance. 0161 306 1779 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum Polar Palace, Winsford. 5 party options that can be themed, with an additional option of a visit from your child’s favourite Character. 01606 863623 / www.polarpalace.co.uk

Shots Football, Cheadle Hulme Championship, Premier League, Champions League & World Cup party options for your football mad youngster at a great indoor location! 0161 488 4118 / www.shot5.co.uk The 2 Gyms, Winsford. Indoor adventure playground offering parties with a party host, food and party bags. 01606 558600 / www.the2gyms-cheshire.co.uk The Spotty Pig Craft Café, Chester. Ceramic painting, cupcake decorating, decopatch or Wild Wood parties. Exclusive party room for 10+ guests. 01244 311318 / www.thespottypig.com Vernon Park Gymnastics Club, Stockport Exclusive use of the gym and party room. Qualified gymnastics coach on hand. £100 for up to £25 children. 0161 406 0488 / www.vernonparkgym.com

To be included or to update your details in our directories, call 01625 801801 or email editor@familiescheshire.co.uk

VENUES

Barnaby’s Playbarn, Northwich A stimulating environment where children can burn off all that energy! A range of party options available. 01606 301321 / www.barnabys-playbarn.com Bollington Health & Leisure Soft play parties for under 5s, Swimming parties for all ages. 01625 574 774 / www.bollingtonleisure.co.uk Brio Leisure, West Cheshire, Swimming, bouncy castle, football, multi-sports and dance mat parties at various venues. www.brioleisure.org Cheshire Craft Workshops, Northwich Paint-a-pot, candle dipping and badge making. 01606 301269 / www.cheshirecraftworkshop.co.uk

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What’s on

Remember to check our What’s On Calendar on www.familiescheshire.co.uk regularly, as not all event information is available at the time of going to print.

Unleash the magic in 2015 Have you ever sat down and totted up how much you spend to entertain children during the school holidays? Take a minute to do so, and then think about how you could do more for less with a little forward planning. According to a survey in summer 2014 – parents were set to spend almost £1,500

entertaining children with outings and short breaks during the school summer holidays, and an earlier survey found that parents spent on average £300 during the Easter holidays. Add in half term and Christmas breaks and your annual entertainment bill for children looks rather steep at around £2,500.

Learning holidays

National Trust

Of course a holiday is a time to laze around and do nothing; but it’s also an opportunity to find out something new, and chasing those chances could give you the most fun of all. Joanna Moorhead reports. “A learning holiday?” said one of my daughters, when I suggested we could combine going on vacation with supplementing her education. “Have you gone completely bonkers?” I hadn’t; but what I did realise, at that moment, was the folly of being upfront in my views about how holidays could be an opportunity to impart knowledge. The trick is never to mention it, and not under any circumstances to admit or volunteer that you are aiming to weave a thread of anything educational through your spring or summer break. But the truth is, holidays are one of the best learning opportunities a parent has – and finding out new things that complement what’s happening in school can be a whole lot of fun when it’s far from the classroom and a long way from home. In terms of focus, there are two possibilities. Either pick up on a child’s

existing passion — for art, perhaps, or for aeroplanes or fashion or whatever it is — or try to give them a new perspective on a subject they’re finding difficult to engage with. In my own experience, I’ve always taken the former (easier) route; but I do sometimes think I should do more to help my kids with the parts of the curriculum they find hardest, and holidays could be the perfect time to do that.

Savvy parents spend now to save later Merlin Entertainments are offering a January sale on their Family Passes from £99 per person, giving entry to 31 major attractions across the UK (14 within striking distance!) – all the big-treat places your children want to visit. SEA LIFE Manchester and LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Manchester are on your doorstep; Alton Towers Resort and the Blackpool Tower, Blackpool SEA LIFE centre, Madame Tussauds Blackpool and the Blackpool Dungeon are all within easy reach, and how about the London Eye, Chessington World of Adventures Resort or Warwick Castle if you’re gearing up for a longer trip? You can pose with royalty and celebrities at Madame Tussauds; leapfrog centuries in medieval Warwick Castle and tiptoe past some sorry souls in the dark Dungeons; transport yourself to the African Plains

with Zufari at Chessington World of Adventures Resort; go underwater at SEA LIFE; marvel at the London skyline on the London Eye, or watch your little wizards tower over cities at LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort. Travel at heart-pounding speeds, upside down or back to front, at Alton Towers Resort or THORPE PARK Resort, climbing like a rocket or dropping like a stone, shrieking like a banshee but coming back for more. A Merlin Annual Pass can really conjure up some spellbindingly magical times for families in 2015. A year of fun at half terms, Easter break and the six week long school summer holidays… we’re sold on the idea – and not just for the savings! For full details of all the attractions on offer with a Merlin Annual Pass, go to www.merlinannualpass.co.uk

most famous paintings set up on permanent easels in the exact spot where he painted them, and dine at the Starry Night Café; or have a trip to Cornwall and find the landscapes and fishing village scenes made famous by the Newlyn School. Or holiday in Pont-Aven in Brittany, once home to Paul Gaugin; or head for Italy and one of the numerous artists’ trails there such as the Piero della Francesca trail in Tuscany.

Literacy Literacy isn’t just about books: taking your children to the places where the characters from, and authors of, their favourite books will show them a whole new side to reading. For younger children, theme parks such as Thomasland (www.draytonmanor.co.uk) or Peppa Pig World (www.peppapigworld.co.uk), both open at February half term and then from March, bring their characters to life in a new way and will prompt even more interest in the books; older children will enjoy a trip to Haworth in west Yorkshire, home of the Brontes and their heartrending true story. Or head to the Jane Austen attractions in Hampshire, or to the Thomas Hardy museum in Dorset; or the Lake District for a taste of Wordsworth.

Where to start? Here are some ideas. Eureka! The National Children’s Museum

British Museum Workshop

Art Children start learning about individual artists from nursery school. Pick an artist your child has talked about at school, or has seemed drawn to when you’ve looked at his/her work together. Easily-accessible artists who use a lot of bright colours are ideal - think Van Gogh, Hockney, Georgia O’Keeffe. It’s easy to make any holiday art-orientated, since art galleries are everywhere: but if you want, you can make it about more than just museums. Try a trip to Arles in the south of France where you can see copies of Van Gogh’s

12 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

Science and nature The simplest way to introduce nature into your holiday is to go for a walk in an undeveloped area, and to explore the green space around you. Look for bugs, birds, small animals and their habitats; if you’re not very knowledgeable about these things yourself, head for a park or arboretum where there are trails and leaflets with advice on what to look out for. Star gazing is another great way to weave science into your holiday. You can see the stars from your back garden on a clear night, but a camping holiday is often the key to the most impressive display of the constellations. Wetlands centres and natural history and science museums are more great ways to introduce the subject into your vacations in an exciting way.

History You can’t go wrong with history: in fact, it’s hard to have a holiday without it straying onto the margins even if you don’t try. Castles, National Trust houses, museums, cathedrals, palaces; the world is heaving with history, and it only takes a tiny bit of imagination to put it into action on holiday. For something different, try taking your kids along to an event at an English Heritage or National Trust property designed to bring the history to life. Or join a child-friendly guided tour of a palace or cathedral – good guides will be full of interesting stories that spark the imagination of even the child who might think history is boring in school. And don’t forget to enjoy learning on holiday yourself!

These listings are for guidance only – please check before you go To include your upcoming event in our listings, email events@familiescheshire.co.uk

ACTIVITIES Every Monday 5 Jan – 9 Feb

Buxton Opera House (Pavilion Arts Centre) Mini Movers and Groovers 10am / Under 5s / £5. A new Monday morning activity, where toddlers and children can explore new worlds through a mixed sensory approach of creative movement and dance. Booking advised. 0845 127 2190 / www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

Every Fri in Jan & Feb

The Lowry, Salford Under 5s First Steps 10am – 10.45am & 11am – 11.45am / Under 5s / £3.50 An active workshop in The Studio where your little one can explore their creativity and have tons of fun! Wriggle, jiggle and jump as we explore stories, rhythm and music through our bodies. 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Every Saturday in Jan & Feb

The Lowry, Salford Lookout, it’s Saturday Playhouse 11am – 12.30pm / Age 5 – 11 / Free. Art activities for children and their families- a different theme each week. Children must be accompanied. 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Sat 3, 10, 17 & 24 Jan

The Wacky Woods (Styperson Quarry Woods, Macclesfield OWLS. 9.30 – 11.30am / Adult £3, Child £10. Our Outdoor Woodland Learning Scheme, runs every Saturday morning during term time and is an educational but fun programme for all ages. All sessions include woodland games, some unstructured play and a key themed activity each week. 01625 573 086 / www.wackywoods.co.uk

Mon 5 & 19 Jan, 2 & 16 Feb

The National Football Museum, Manchester Let’s Play Toddler 10.30 – 11.30am / Under 4s (confident walkers) / £3, booking advised. Physical activity and imaginative movement with songs. 0161 871 8145 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

Tues 6 & 20 Jan, Tues 3 Feb

Manchester Museum Baby Explorers 10.30 – 11.15am, 11.30am – 12.15pm & 1 – 1.45pm / Free (book 1 week in advance) Sensory play and interactive story session for babies who aren’t walking yet. 0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum

Thurs 8 Jan

John Rylands Library, Manchester Toddler Tales 10.30 – 11.30am / under 5s / No booking required Find a cosy corner, pull up a cushion and listen to fun stories. Join in playtime, creating a story world of your own. 0161 306 0555 / www.library.manchester.ac.uk

Thurs 8 & 22 Jan, 5 & 19 Feb, Mon 12 & 26 Jan, 9 Feb

The National Football Museum, Manchester Baby Moves 10.30am & 1.30pm. A play and movement session to help your baby’s physical, communication and language development. 0161 871 8145 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

Fri 9 Jan & Fri 6 Feb

The Lowry, Salford Under 5s Doodle Tots 10am – 10.45am & 11.15am – 12pm / Under 5s / £3.50 A colourful art workshop to paint, stick and make your own works of art. 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Fri 9 Jan & Fri 13 Feb

Manchester Art Gallery Mini Art Club 10.15 - 11.15am & 11.30am - 12.30pm / Age 1 – 4 /

Free but booking essential. Get to know the artworks, investigate materials and make friends in our artist led workshops. 0161 235 8888 / www.manchestergalleries.org

Sat 10 Jan & Sat 13 Feb

Manchester Art Gallery Family Art Club 1 – 3pm / Age 5 - 11 / Free but limited places Look at art, be creative and making things together. 0161 235 8888 / www.manchestergalleries.org

Sun 11 Jan & Sun 1 Mar

Royal Exchange Theatre – The Studio Flying Saucers Drama Workshop £3, booking essential. Age 4-7: 1 – 1.40pm Age 8-11: 1.45 – 2.30pm. A chance for under 11s to enjoy a fun performance workshop, teaching them basic stage skills and team building exercises concentrating on expression, movement and confidence! 0161 833 9833 / www.royalexchange.co.uk

Sat 17 Jan

Manchester Art Gallery Open Doors 9.15 – 10.30am / Age 5 – 16 with parent/carer / Free, no need to book. A series of creative activities especially for children with autism and other social communication issues, their families and carers. 0161 235 8869 / www.manchestergalleries.org Stockport Story Museum Egyptian Hieroglyphics and Drawings 10am – 11am & 11.30am – 12.30pm / Age 7 – 11 (accompanied) / £3, booking essential. Enjoy a workshop exploring the art of ancient Egyptian mark making. 0161 474 4444 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Sat 17 & Sun 18 Jan

East Lancashire Railway Winter Steam Gala An action packed weekend of steam haulage with the home fleet as well as a special guest locomotive. 0161 764 7790 / www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Sun 18 Jan

Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Bridgewater For All - Guitar Weekend Music Makers: Toddler Session Toddlers (walking - 4 years): 11am, Babies: 12pm / Free but booking essential. Special guitar-themed music and sensory play session for babies and toddlers. 0161 237 7000 / www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk Royal Exchange Theatre – The Studio Flying Saucers Sensory Workshop £3, booking essential. Non-walking: 12.15 – 1pm Age 0-5: 1.30 - 2.15pm. Join musician and artist Najia Bagi as we explore the theatre with babies and toddlers in a brand new way. 0161 833 9833 / www.royalexchange.co.uk

Thurs 22 Jan

Manchester Museum A special screening of HOME 6 – 9pm / Age 8+ / Free (donations welcomed) A family-friendly screening & discussion by Manchester Film Co-op of Yann Arthus-Bertrand’s award-winning feature documentary watched by >600 million people worldwide since 2006, HOME. The film will be screened in the Living Worlds gallery, which was also created to inspire us to look after our home – the gallery explores the connections between all living things, including us, and shows how we can all shape the future by the choices we make. 0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum

Fri 23 Jan

Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Bridgewater For All - Music Makers: Toddler Session Toddlers (walking - 4 years): 11am & 12pm, Babies: 1.45pm and 2.45pm / Free but booking essential Special guitar-themed music and sensory play session for babies and toddlers. 0161 237 7000 / www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

Sat 24 Jan

Manchester Museum Early Bird Opening 9 – 10am / Under 5s, their families and siblings / Free, drop in. Up with the Larks and excited to get out and about and exploring? Why not come along to the early bird opening of the ‘Siberia: At the Edge of the World’ temporary exhibition. Enjoy self-led tours, object handling and craft activities. (Just the temporary exhibition will be open at 9am - you can explore the rest of the Museum from 10am). Big Saturday: Siberia 11am – 4pm / All ages/ Free, drop-in Activities for all the family, from traditional music and arts to a guided tour of the ‘Siberia: At the Edge of the World’ exhibition. Meet curators and see objects from the Museum’s stores. 0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre Family Starlight Adventure 2.30 – 5.30pm / Age 5+ / Adult: £9, Child: £7. A fun, fact-packed science show, lantern making and a lantern led walk to the Galaxy Garden to view our starlight constellations, led by our knowledgeable team (or to our Event Space should it be a rainy evening!). Ticket cost includes all day entrance to the Discovery Centre (arrive early if you want to do this) 01477 571766 / www.jodrellbank.net Nantwich Town Centre The Battle of Nantwich The annual re-enactment of the Battle of Nantwich 1644. www.battleofnantwich.co.uk

Sun 25 Jan

Jodrell Bank Arboretum Big Garden Birdwatch 10.30am – 12.30pm / Pre-booking essential Join Macclesfield RSPB Wildlife Explorers and the Macclesfield RSPB Local Group for the RSPB’s annual Big Garden Birdwatch. With advice on using binoculars and telescopes and help with identifying common garden birds as well as lots of helpful hints on completing your own survey at home. 07870 804413 / www.macclesfieldrspb.org.uk Royal Exchange Theatre – The Great Hall Flying Saucers Music Workshop £3, booking essential. Age 5-8: 1 – 1.40pm Age 8-11: 1.45 – 2.30pm. With workshop leader Sarah Atter, children can take part in a fun and funky music workshop. Using voices, body percussion and instruments, see what amazing music you can create! 0161 833 9833 / www.royalexchange.co.uk

Fri 30 Jan & Fri 27 Feb

Manchester Museum Magic Carpet 10.30 – 11.30am & 11.30am – 12.30pm / Under 5s/ Free but book from a week before Story making and activity sessions. Young babies welcome with older siblings. 0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) Experitots 10 – 11.30am / £3 for one adult + one child, £2 for each additional child/adult. A popular creative activity sessions for under 6s using puppets and storytelling to help toddlers get the most out of the hands on science gallery, Experiment! A different theme each month. Advance booking recommended. 30 Jan: 123 Let’s Count 27 Feb: Our World 0161 833 0027 / www.mosi.org.uk

Sat 31 Jan & 7 Feb

Manchester Art Gallery Studio Saturday 2 – 4pm / All ages / Free. Join us in the Clore Art Studio where our artists pop in to support play and add their own unique touches to the space. 0161 235 8869 / www.manchestergalleries.org

What’s on Thurs 5 Feb

John Rylands Library, Manchester Toddler Tales 10.30 – 11.30am / under 5s / No booking required. Find a cosy corner, pull up a cushion and listen to fun stories. Join in playtime, creating a story world of your own. 0161 306 0555 / www.library.manchester.ac.uk

Fri 6 Feb

Manchester Art Gallery Baby Art Club 10.15-11am, 11.30-12.15pm, 1.15-2pm, 2.30-3.15pm / Free but limited places. Use all your senses to explore our artist’s space. For babies who aren’t walking yet, with an adult or carer. Book a week in advance. 0161 235 8869 / www.manchestergalleries.org

Sat 7 Feb

Manchester Art Gallery Baby Saturday 1 – 3pm / Free, drop in. More sensory exploration. Drop in and make friends. For babies who aren’t walking yet, with an adult or carer. 0161 235 8869 / www.manchestergalleries.org

Sat 7 Feb The Tytherington Club, Macclesfield Baby & Children’s Market Macclesfield 10am – 12 noon / Adult £1, Child free. Grab some bargains at our nearly new sale. An opportunity to purchase top quality pre loved baby and children’s items. Local businesses also attending showcasing their unique products and services for babies and children. Stall bookings now being taken. **SANDBACH MARKET ALSO OPENING IN 2015** 07834 686414 / susanne@babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk / www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk

Sat 7 – Sun 22 Feb

Chatsworth House, Bakewell Half term at the farmyard & adventure playground 10.30am - 4.30pm / £6. £6 per person 01246 565300 / www.chatsworth.org

Sat 7 Feb – Sun 8 Mar (closed Mondays) Rode Hall, Scholar Green Snowdrop Walks 11am – 4pm, £4 www.rodehall.co.uk

Fri 9, 23 Jan, 6, 13 & 27 Feb Hat Works, Stockport Bowler Hat Babies £5/baby with two free accompanying adults Interactive stories and sensory play for babies who are not yet walking. 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/hatworks

Mon 9, Tues 10 & Thurs 12 Feb, Mon 16 – Thurs 19 Feb

Chester Zoo Our Zoo Tours Take a tour of Oakfield Manor and see behind the scenes of where the zoo started more than 80 years ago. Afterwards enjoy a sumptuous meal, afternoon tea or simply tea & cakes. See website for times and prices. www.chesterzoo.org

Sun 11, 18 & 15 Jan

The Wacky Woods (Styperson Quarry Woods, Macclesfield Frozen January 10am – 12pm / Age 4 – 11 (accompanied) / Adult £4, Child £10. We’re hopeful the weather will be snowy – but if not, no problem – we’ll you discover the power to make your own snow and snowflakes! 01625 573 086 / www.wackywoods.co.uk

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What’s on Sat 14 & Sun 15 Feb

Hat Works, Stockport Drop in Paper Hat Making 10am – 4pm / Free, drop-in. Visit the Hat Works to decorate your very own hat. Pick up your pack of craft materials from reception, then make and decorate your paper hat on the gallery floor! 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/hatworks

Sat 14 – Sat 21 Feb

Various venues in Chester, Ellesmere Port, Winsford, Upton and Northwich. WayWord Festival 2015 Ages 4 – 16. A young persons’ festival packed full of events, workshops and activities perfectly formed for the enquiring young mind. www.wayword.co.uk

Sat 14 – Sun 22 Feb

Little Moreton Hall Candlemas 11am – 5pm / Free with normal admission Celebrate the beginning of Spring during half term week. Find out what’s happening in 2015 and enjoy Tudor games in front of the fire. 01260 272018 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/little-moreton-hall Stockley Farm, Arley Half Term Fun on the Farm Join us as we open for our 2015 season! Say hello to old friends and welcome some new faces as we welcome lambs, calves, piglets and more into the world! www.stockleyfarm.co.uk/events Tatton Park Scarecrow Festival Over 30 scarecrows will be resident in the Gardens. Find the farmyard scarecrows and have a go at making your own. Normal admission applies. Closed Monday. 01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sat 14 – Sun 22 Feb

Stockport Air Raid Shelters Signs, Symbols and Shapes Tues – Fri 1pm – 5pm Sat 10am – 5pm Sun 11am – 5pm £4.75 Adults / Under 16s FREE. Do you know your Spitfire from your Doodlebug? Learn more about the signs, symbols and shapes that affected people’s lives during WWII in this family quiz around the Shelters. Closed Monday. 0161 474 1940 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Mon 16 Feb

Remember to check our What’s On Calendar on www.familiescheshire.co.uk regularly, as not all event information is available at the time of going to print.

February Half Term – Meet the Expert 1 – 1.45pm / Free with normal admission Meet one of our resident scientific and engineering experts, find out about their work and quiz them about what they do and their knowledge of Jodrell Bank. Most suitable for older children and adults. 01477 571766 / www.jodrellbank.net Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Wild Animals 12 – 4pm, Free with normal admission. Make a ‘wild animal teller’ you can take outside to identify animals from their footprints and poo! 01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank The Lowry, Salford Half Term Little Actors 11am / Age 5 – 11 / £3.50. Slip and slide through Frozen worlds to bring Olaf, Anna, Kristoff and friends to life in this fun and interactive drama workshop for Half Term. Places are limited so please book in advance. Half Term Little Artists 11am / Age 5 – 11 / £3.50. Celebrate the magical performance of I Believe in Unicorns, and make your own galloping unicorns out of junk! Make them fly, jump and canter with a sprinkling of magic dust! 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Tues 17 Feb

Delamere Forest Bushcraft 11am – 2pm/ Age 10+ / £12. Join our expert ranger to learn all about how to survive in the forest. Choose from a selection of shelter designs to build your own waterproof, warm shelter. Collect the materials you need to light a fire, and have a go at the bow drill, learn how to use a knife safely and cook on the fire that you have helped to build! Advance booking essential. 07808 506308 / www.forest-explorers.co.uk Manchester Museum Baby Explorers 11am – 2.30pm / Babies / Free, drop-in Half term drop-in sensory play sessions for babies who aren’t walking yet. 0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum

Tues 17 & Wed 18 Feb

The National Football Museum, Manchester Make your own Trench Football Game 11am – 2pm / All ages / £2. Inspired by the exhibition “The Greater Game”. 0161 871 8145 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

Delamere Forest Den Building for younger children 10 - 11.30am & 1 - 2.30pm / Age 3 – 5 (accompanied) / £5 Start off with a story, then build a mini den for a forest animal, and finally have a go at building a bigger den for yourself! Advance booking essential. 07808 506308 / www.forest-explorers.co.uk

Tues 17 – Fri 20 Feb

Mon 16 Feb – Thurs 19 Feb

Wed 18 Feb

Parrs Wood High School, Didsbury (M20 5PG) Little Fingers Half Term Arts and Craft Club 9am – 4pm / Age 5 – 11 / £28 per day or £99 for the full 4 days. Fun, creative and innovative arts and crafts holiday club your kids will love. www.littlefingers-crafts.com

Mon 16 – Fri 20 Feb

Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre February half term – Planets Science Show Shows at 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm / Age 5+ / Free with normal admission, places limited. Watch our demonstrations to discover why Venus is such a dangerous place to go, taking an everyday object to Neptune is not such a good idea and why the Earth is so special. February half term – Planets Hands On Activities 11am – 4pm / Age 5+ / Free with normal admission. Come along to try some science experiments for yourself. Find out about volcanoes on Mars, how gravity varies from planet to planet and why Saturn floats!

Manchester Art Gallery Holiday Workshops – Mini Worlds 1 – 3pm / Free, drop in. Join us this half term to explore mini worlds with artist Michiko Fujii. 0161 235 8869 / www.manchestergalleries.org Delamere Forest Winter Survival 10am – 12pm or 1 – 3pm / Age 6+ (accompanied) / £8 Join us to learn how to survive in the depths of winter in a fun way! We’ll teach you how to build a warm, dry shelter, how to light a fire, and to make a hot drink. You will also learn how to find North so you can find your way home. Advance booking essential. 07808 506308 / www.forest-explorers.co.uk Hat Works, Stockport Storytelling in the Yurt 10 – 11am / Age 3 – 6 / £3 (one accompanying adult), booking essential. Make yourself comfortable in our yurt and listen to some stories - some you know and some that may be new to you. Wonderful Weaving 1 – 3pm / Age 7 – 12 / £3 per child (two accompanying adults), drop in. Try out different forms of weaving. 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/hatworks

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Thurs 19 Feb

Hat Works, Stockport Tie Dye, Batik and Screen Printing Workshop 10am – 3pm / Age 8 – 12 / £8, booking essential. A chance to have a go at three different ways of decorating a piece of cloth or item of clothing. Different materials will be provided or bring something of your own to print. Bring your own lunch. Drinks and snacks provided at break times. 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/hatworks Delamere Forest Junior Explorers 11am – 3pm / Age 6+ / £15. 4 hours of fun, woodland activities, games, rope obstacle course, art and crafts, and the best bit.....S’mores around the fire! Advance booking essential. 07808 506308 / www.forest-explorers.co.uk Stockport Story Museum Arty Natural History 10am - 11am & 11.30am - 12.30pm / Age 7 – 11 (accompanied) / £3, booking essential. Be inspired by our natural history objects in our new learning zone. 0161 474 4444 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Fri 20 Feb

Stockport Story Museum Junk Modelling Bring your own junk and join us to re-create a medieval market. 11am – 4pm / Age 7 – 11 (must be accompanied) / £1/child, booking essential 0161 474 4444 / www.stockport.gov.uk Delamere Forest Little Explorers 10am - 12pm or 1 - 3pm / Age3 – 5 (accompanied) / £7 A birdie theme to get our birds ready for spring. Make a bird feeder, learn how to make a bird nest, make a clay bird to take home and still have time for a play and a fire toasting marshmallows! Advance booking essential. 07808 506308 / www.forest-explorers.co.uk

Sat 21 Feb

Marbury Country Park (Rangers Cabin) Homes for Wildlife 10am – 4pm / Free, donations welcome Make and take away a nestbox to put up in your garden, as part of National Nest Box Week, or perhaps a bughome. No charge but donations welcome. 01606 891683 / www.northwichwoodlands.org.uk

Sat 21 & Sun 22 Feb

East Lancashire Railway Steam Weekend and Transport Collectors’ Fair Take a ride on one of the home fleet or guest steam locos running all weekend then pop into the museum to browse stalls full of vintage collectables and souvenirs. 0161 764 7790 / www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Sat 28 Feb

Manchester Museum Early Opening for Early Birds 9 – 10am / Under 5s, their families and siblings / Free, drop in. Up with the Larks and excited to get out and about and exploring? Come along to the Museum’s Nature’s Library gallery early for self-led tours, object handling and craft activities. (Just the Nature’s Library gallery will be open at 9am - you can explore the rest of the Museum from 10am). Big Saturday: Climate Science Challenge 11am – 4pm / All ages / Free, drop-in Be a scientist for the day. Join researchers and curators in their quest to explore Earth’s climate. Discover how to reconstruct prehistoric environments, monitor present day conditions and predict future changes. Get to grips with scientific equipment, fossils and field samples or take part in a craft workshop. With activities for all the family. 0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum

Sat 7 & Sun 8 Mar

The National Waterways Museum, Ellesmere Port Model Boat Show £3.50 The museum basin and locks will be taken over by intricate radio controlled boats demonstrating their owner’s skills at both model making and boat piloting. www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/ national-waterways-museum

SHOWS & PERFORMANCES Fri 9 – Sat 17 Jan (excl 12 Jan) The Carver Theatre, Marple Aladdin 7.30pm (2.30 & 6.30pm Sat & Sun) / £9 A magic carpet ride of family fun 0161 449 8363 / www.carvertheatre.co.uk

Fri 9 – Sun 11 & Wed 14 – Sun 18 Jan

Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Aladdin £12/£10/£36 (Family). Sale Nomads’ bring you their annual pantomime for all ages with all the usual characters to laugh along with and plenty of booing, hissing and audience participation. 0161 912 5616 / www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Sat 10 – Sat 17 Jan (excl Mon 12 Jan)

The Daneside Theatre, Congleton Congleton Pantomime presents Aladdin The well-known and much loved pantomime suitable for all ages. 01260 278481 / www.danesidetheatre.co.uk

Thurs 15 – Sat 17 Jan

Bath House Theatre, Manchester Aladdin 7.30pm & 2.30pm Sat matinee / Adult £10, Concession £8, Family £32. One of the most famous stories of all time; join Aladdin as he searches for gold and fame with his long lost uncle - the evil Abanazar. www.northwesttheatreartscompany.co.uk

Fri 16 – Sat 24 Jan

Knutsford Little Theatre Aladdin Evenings: 7pm (Sat also 2pm, Sun 11.30 & 3.30pm) / £8. Plenty of laughs for both children and grown-ups from beginning to end. 01565 633000 / www.knutsfordlittletheatre.com

Sat 17 Jan – Sun 22 Feb

The Palace Theatre, Manchester The Lion King With a cast of over 40 actors, singers & dancers, the story of The Lion King is miraculously brought to life using masks, puppets and striking costumes to tell the story of young Simba’s epic adventures as he struggles to accept the responsibilities of adulthood & becoming king. www.manchestertheatres.com

Sun 18 Jan

Crewe Lyceum Sing-a-long-a Frozen & Party 11.30am, 3pm & 6.30pm / Age 5+ / Adult £16, Child £1. Experience a screening of Disney’s Frozen with lyrics on screen to help you sing along with Elsa and Anna, together with live host and magic moments fun pack so that you can interact with the movie. Dress up as your favourite character for the fancy dress competition! Make a full day of it with our Party Day – free with your ticket to the performance. 01270 368 242 / www.crewelyceum.co.uk

Fri 23 & Sat 24 Jan

The Lowry, Salford The Tiger Who Came to Tea £15 Following a smash-hit West End season, the tea-guzzling tiger is back on the road in this delightful family show that’s packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem... expect to be surprised! 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Sun 1 Feb

Buxton Opera House Sing-a-long-a Frozen 1pm / Adults £13.50 Child: £10. Who hasn’t been singing Let It Go and wanting to dress up as Elsa?! Join in the full experience with lyrics on screen and sing along with songs from the film. A live host will show you how to use your interactive fun pack. 0845 127 2190 / www.buxtonoperahouse.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

Sat 7 Feb

Dancehouse Theatre, Manchester Lights... Camera... Dance! 6.30pm /All ages /£10. A wonderful night of dance performed by the KNT Danceworks youngest members. Ballet, jazz, tap and contemporary with amazing costumes and mesmerising props. It promises to be a fun filled night that should leave a lingering smile! A show fit for all ages. www.facebook.com/karen.sant.16

Tues 10 Feb

The Three Keepers Buxton Opera House (Pavilion Arts Centre) 2pm / Age 8+ / Adult £9, Child £7. An inventive blend of physical theatre, dance and comedy routines inspired by the silent film era. Includes a FREE posy-show talk and interactive improvisation demo after the performance. 0845 127 2190 / www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

Tues 10 – Sat 14 Feb

Wed 18 – Sun 22 Feb

Z-arts, Hulme Emergency Story Penguin 11am, 2pm (Wed & Thurs only) & 7pm / Age 5+ / £8 An interactive adventure for young audiences and their families. An installation incorporating puppetry, video and music. 0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org

Thurs 19 Feb

Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Sing-a-long-a Frozen + Craft Activities + Competition Craft activities: 10am & 1.30pm / Film screenings: 11am & 2.30pm. Film £5, Craft Activities 50p/child (Family Club members), £2/child (Non Club members) / Drop in but spaces limited. Take part in Frozen – related craft activities, see a screening of newly released Frozen Sing-a-long and sing your hearts out!. PLUS! Prizes for the best Frozen outfit! 0161 912 5616 / www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Regent Theatre, Stoke On Trent The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time Age 7+ / From £11.90 + booking fee. Winner of seven 2013 Olivier Awards, this highly- acclaimed National Theatre production, embarks on its first ever nationwide tour from December 2014. Suitable for ages 11+. www.atgtickets.com/venues/regent-theatre

Thurs 19 – Fri 22 Feb

Wed 11 & Thurs 12 Feb

Thurs 19 – Sat 28 Feb

Crewe Lyceum The Octonauts 1pm & 4.30pm / From £12.50. When there’s trouble under the sea, the Octonauts dive into action! Visit strange new worlds full of mysteries to unravel, with surprises around every corner this action packed interactive show features music and all your favourite characters live on stage for the very first time! 01270 368 242 / www.crewelyceum.co.uk

Wed 11 – Sun 15 Feb

Buxton Opera House Snow White on Ice Wed, Fri & Sat 7pm Thurs, Sat & Sun 2pm Go on a magical journey with the world famous Russian Ice Stars as they bring to life the much loved fairy tale, Snow White. The show combines gymnastics, aerial aerobatics, full stage sets and a wonderful score to create a breathtaking and mesmerising experience the whole family can enjoy. 0845 127 2190 / www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

Thurs 12 Feb

Buxton Opera House (Pavilion Arts Centre) Three Wise Monkeys 1.30pm / Ages 3 – 7 / £7.50. Expect live music, puppets and mischievous storytelling when you follow the adventures of Seeno, Hearno and Sayno as they discover when you should tell a lie, when to keep a secret and how to help your friends make sense of it all. 0845 127 2190 / www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

Sat 14 – Tues 17 Feb

Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Goldilocks and the 3 Bears 11.30 & 2.30pm / Adult £8, Child £6 Stuff and Nonsense return with a thrilling adaptation of everyone’s favourite beary-tale! A brilliant mix of ingenious puppetry, music and mischievous moments. Suitable for the whole family. 0161 912 5616 / www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Mon 16 Feb & Sun 8 Mar

The Lowry, Salford Sing-a-long-a Frozen Age 5+ / £10.50 - £16. A full screening of Disney’s FROZEN with lyrics on screen to help you sing along with Anna and Elsa during the film. A live host will show you how to use your free prop bag, warm up your singing voices and teach you some hand actions and heckles before you sit back and “Let it Go”. Dress up as your favourite character. 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

What’s on

The Lowry, Salford I Believe in Unicorns £15. A spellbinding and moving story, from the book by Michael Morpurgo (author of War Horse), A wonderful show for all the family to enjoy. 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com The Forum Studio Theatre, Chester Les Miserables, Schools’ Edition £7. A specially adapted version of the show for young performers with an assembled cast of some of the most talented 16-19 years olds in the North-West, plus younger performers in the roles of Little Cosette and Gavroche. Featuring all of the shows hit songs and a live orchestra. 01244 341296 / www.tiptopproductions.co.uk

Sun 22 Feb

The Lowry, Salford Nicobobinus Age 6+ / £8.50. A family musical adaptation of Terry Jones’ much-loved children’s tale about the boy ‘who could do anything’. Original songs, instrumental acrobatics, moving sets and a bucket-load of Monty Python-esque wit, offering genuine family theatre for children aged 6+ and their grown up chums! 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com Stockport Plaza The Chuckles of Oz 2pm / Tickets from £14.30. Dorothy, The Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion and the Scarecrow are among the familiar characters who join the Wizards (Paul and Barry) for this sensational new version of the familiar Wizard of Oz story. There’s no place like “The Chuckles of Oz” for all ages from 3 to 103! 0161 477 7779 / www.stockportplaza.co.uk

Tues 24 & Wed 25 Feb

Buxton Opera House The Cat In The Hat Tues 5pm, Wed 1pm & 3pm / Adult £13, Child £9 The National Theatre’s adaptation of the much loved book by Dr Seuss comes to Buxton in a lively and engaging theatrical show for children and their families. 0845 127 2190 / www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

Sat 28 Feb

2015 Chinese New Year Extravaganza Stockport Plaza 2.30 & 7pm / Tickets from £12.75. A unique and exciting show of cultural display featuring a team of performers from China and Stockport. 0161 477 7779 / www.stockportplaza.co.uk

Sat 28 Feb

Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester Junior RNCM Formal Concert 12.30pm / Free. A showcase performance featuring talented soloists from Junior RNCM. 0161 907 5200 / www.rncm.ac.uk

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