Families Manchester Issue 53 Sept-Oct 2015

Edition 53 • Sept/Oct 2015

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

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In this issue > What NOT to do as a new school parent > After school clubs - what, why and when > Be your own boss

Whole School Open Day

Saturday 7th November 2015

Senior School Entrance Exam

www.bridgewater-school.co.uk

BRIDGEWATER SCHOOL

Friday 29th January 2016

Please contact the school for more information on 0161 794 1463.

Bridgewater School, Drywood Hall, Worsley, Manchester. M28 2WQ

Covering: Altrincham, Trafford, Salford, Manchester, Bolton, Bury, Rochdale, Didsbury, Stockport, Cheadle, Bramhall, and surrounding areas.

News In this issue 02: News 04: Back to school 10: Parties 11: Parents’ place 14: Clubs & classes 16: What’s on

Hello! So, we survived the long summer break, and are relieved about our eldest’s GCSE results! It’s an emotional time of year for so many of us, when our babies either start on their educational journey, or we realise they’re not babies anymore and head off to secondary school/sixth form. Either way, it’s a change – and sometimes it’s a great opportunity to sit back and decide what’s next for us. Cue our feature on prospects for working mums in this issue. And cue also, the time for us to make the sad decision to move on from Families. We’ve LOVED being part of this fantastic magazine, but feel it’s time for fresh blood to come on board! So if you fancy picking up the reigns, have a look on page 13 for this rare opportunity to become part of the Families family! Enjoy the Autumn term! Caryl Hall

Jayne Keep

Next issue: Nov/Dec 2015

Print: Bishops Printers, Walton Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO6 1TR Tel: 023 9233 4900 www.bishops.co.uk

Circulation: 25,000 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.

‘Cheers’ Alcohol education charity Drinkaware reveals that 44% of parents in the UK who drink in front of their child say they witness their children mimicking their drinking behaviour – such as saying ‘cheers’ or pretending to sip alcohol. Elaine Hindal, Chief Executive at Drinkaware, says: “We all know that our children like to play grown up and mimic our habits and mannerisms, from putting on makeup to pretending to drive the car. However it’s important to think about the other behaviours we may inadvertently pass on to our children”. For more information and expert advice on talking to your children about alcohol visit www.drinkaware.co.uk/underagedrinking.

UK tooth fairy’s generous purse A UK-based study of 1,000 parents with children aged 5-14 was carried out by the home of fairy and elf doors, The Magic Door Store (www.themagicdoorstore.com). The survey revealed that ‘tooth fairies’ shell out anything from £1 up to £2.50 per tooth, with a UK average of £1.32 being left in exchange for a single tooth. In the last 12 months alone, our kids’ pearly whites have cost the tooth fairy a staggering £19.8 million.

Families Cheshire is part of Families Magazines Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Contact details: Families Manchester, Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, 3 Hall Hill, Bollington SK10 5ED Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Cheshire are Tel: 01625 801 801 www.familiesmanchester.co.uk fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without Editorial: editor@familiesmanchester.co.uk prior consent of the publisher. Advertising/artwork: advertising@familiesmanchester.co.uk We take every care preparing the magazine, but the Events, diary dates, what’s on: events@familiesmanchester.co.uk publishers and distributors can’t be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, the accuracy of the contents nor Cover photograpy: for any consequences. Bridgewater School, Manchester 0161 794 1463 www.bridgewater-school.co.uk Design: Paul Wilson Graphic Design, Congleton. Tel: 07743 111 694 www.withpaul.co.uk

@FamiliesManch www.facebook.com/familiesmanchester

Coffee: You Can!

Fatter families

Obesity has long been seen as a problem in the UK but the age at which health professionals are seeing obese children is getting younger, according to a study. Researchers at University College, London, examined data from 56,000 people born between 1946 and 2001. They found that obesity has become much more common

and is starting earlier in life. Because obesity is often carried on into adult life, these children are at risk of severe health problems in future and cost the NHS over £5 billion per year. The study showed that while 23% of six to 10 year olds were overweight in 1994, the figure now stands at 30%. Eustace De Sousa, spokesperson for Public Health England, said: “Almost one in 10 children in Reception are obese - but what’s even more shocking is that by the time they leave primary school, this doubles to nearly one in five.

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We’ve been told for years to cut down on how much coffee we drink. It’s bad for the blood pressure, it can be linked to certain cancers and it makes you jittery – right? Well, it seems new evidence has emerged to show that it may actually be good for you. Three to five cups a day can reduce type 2 diabetes and heart disease, may protect from Parkinson’s and can reduce the risk of cancer of the pancreas, liver, breast and prostate. One of the chemicals in coffee – caffeic acid – can help cells defend themselves against cancerous cells. But remember, the fancy coffee shop kind packed with fatty and sugary flavourings is still bad for you!

Personalised presents Labels4Kids now offers a great new range of personalised children’s gifts for Christmas or birthdays from Disney, Hasbro, Nickelodeon and Mattel! Have your child’s name and the names of their friends woven into a story like Disney Frozen or Spongebob. There’s a huge choice of characters – everything from Ninja Turtles to Disney Princess – with the range including books, clocks and name tags. Allow 3 weeks for delivery as they are custom made to your personal requirements. Go to www.labels4kids.com/ personalised-gift-range/disney-marvelnickelodeon.html to see the full collection.

News Get set for Christmas!

With children now back in school, it’s probably a good idea to think about Christmas. Yes, we can hear you groaning, but there are only 16 weeks until the big day, so start early and spread the cost! And there’s something very special about a unique, handmade gift from Brookside Pottery in Poynton – whether it’s a new baby’s hand

print, a Christmas bauble or decoration, a vase etc. To help you with your Christmas budgeting, Brookside offer a single glazing charge for one or more items painted in a session. And you can earn loyalty stamps too. Every £10 spent per person earns one stamp; 6 stamps earn you the chance to glaze a mug for FREE! Brookside will be open all October half term, with all Christmas stock on display from early September. Avoid the rush and get your Christmas presents painted early. Bookings are available between 10am and 11am every week day during the school holidays, when you can take advantage of a 10% earlybird discount too! 07946 637499 / www.brooksidepottery.com

Families’ choice of the best new books for you and your children By Justine Crow, parent of three and co-owner of her own bookshop, The Bookseller Crow on Hill (www.booksellercrow.co.uk)

Baby & Toddler Ten Little Dinosaurs by Mike Brownlow & Simon Rickerty (Orchard £11.99) The Ten Little… series are bright, noisy and very silly. Throw in a bunch of pre-historic creatures in search of adventure and you have the ideal counting primer. And when it comes to your little monsters, you can’t go wrong with dinosaurs, eh? Reception to age 6 My Beastly Activity Book by Victor Escandell (Thames & Hudson £9.95) More than just a colouring book, this has interactive content featuring facts and puzzles in sketchbook format complete with a bright elastic page-marker and tongue-in-T-Rex-cheek style. This feeds the imagination and keeps questions coming. 6 - 8 years Travels of an Ordinary Hamster by Astrid Desbordes & Pauline Martin (Gecko Press £7.99) Crossing the divide between a chapter book and an illustrated novel, this ensures your early reader’s interest is sustained and not daunted by big blocks of text. Hamster has to get to grips with the idea that getting from A to B isn’t as easy as it looks. Oh crumbs!

Emily’s now open in Prestwich! Emily’s Paint A Pot is a ceramic and craft studio in Prestwich where you can paint pots, fabric and glass. Get creative no matter what your age: newborn (or furry friend paw) clay imprints, favourite characters for children to paint, wine glasses for adults to decorate, cool bags for teenagers to customise or unique vases for seniors to create! Book the children into one of Emily’s after school clubs, or make use

of the dedicated party room for any type of celebration. Or join in their Ladies nights to have a night off from the kids and a catch up with the girls. You’ll find cakes, coffees and baby facilities on offer, as well as a dedicated feeding room if you want some peace and quiet. And there’s no studio fee – the price you see is the price you pay, so there’s no excuse – head over and explore your creative talents! 0161 222 7820 / www.emilyspaintapot.com

Age 9+ Demolition Dad by Phil Earle (Orion £6.99) Our pint-sized protagonist’s Pop knocks things down on purpose - both buildings AND people - but as George Biggs says: life isn’t about how you get knocked down, it’s how you get back up again. With hilarious illustrations by Sara Ogilvie. Age 12 to teen We are All Made of Molecules by Susin Nielsen (Andersen £12.99) With change afoot and not everybody happy about it, this offbeat novel follows one very mixed-up family. Don’t be put off by the earnest American flavour - it manages to be both funny and heart-warming without being sickly.

Once Upon A Dish: a true treat for your taste buds Experience the delicious taste sensations of a far off region without even packing a bag. Once Upon A Dish is a unique dining experience for up to ten people in the comfort of your own home – creating a novel dinner party with a kaleidoscope of dishes telling the story of foreign lands. Either sit back, relax and entertain your guests while your home cooked meal is prepared for you – or get involved and learn how to recreate it when the mood suits you. From the Levant’s humus and Turkey’s menmen to Iran’s sabzi and Morocco’s harira, Siba and her team is ready to take you on a journey that will delight your taste buds. Prices start from £40 per person. Call Siba on 07989 859851 to find out more, or email her: siba@onceuponadish.co.uk

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Back to school Been there, done that!

Ten mistakes that parents make when they’re new to school life

Liat Hughes-Joshi (parenting journalist and author) points out the pitfalls we should try to avoid 1. Complaining to the teacher based on what your child told you happened…only it didn’t… Your child tells you X did Y, you march in demanding answers from the teacher, only to discover that what your little one reported wasn’t actually correct. Stay open-minded until you find out the facts from all concerned. 2. Sweating the small stuff Try to not get obsessed with reading levels, who got the hardest spellings and the like. It won’t go on their CVs after all. As long as they’re enjoying school and learning, that’s what matters most. 3. Getting embroiled in school gate competitiveness Engaging with competitive parents is a lose-lose situation. If your child is ahead of theirs, they’ll hate you for it. If theirs has one up on yours, you’ll have to endure their smugness. Walk away or change the subject to something more interesting, like the weather. 4. Not helping at school…or doing so for the wrong reasons Volunteering in the classroom or for the PTA will help you make friends and feel part of the school community. 5. Fretting about fall-outs Reception children switch friends quicker than you can ask ‘who’s your best buddy now?’ It’s completely normal and bust-ups are quickly forgotten. 6. Tackling other parents about problems between the children Even if your protective instincts

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kick in, don’t head over to give the other mum what for. She probably won’t agree that her child is to blame and parental fall-outs can endure long after the kids forget. Chat to the teacher instead. 7. Losing sight of the fact the teacher has 29 other pupils to look after At ‘big school’, you aren’t going to get the daily chat with staff you might be used to at nursery or with childminders. Assume ‘no news is good news’. 8. Expecting your child to be pleased to see you at 3pm With so much to learn, by home time many reception kids are exhausted. Skip the after-school activities in favour of quiet time back home and go with lots of early nights during the first term. 9. Focusing on academic rather than practical skills before they start Ask reception teachers what they’d like their new charges to be proficient at and it probably won’t be about letters or numbers. What’s more important to settling in is for your child to be able to dress and undress for PE, use the toilet independently and recognise their name on their coat peg/belongings. 10. Not naming absolutely anything of use or importance! There’s a black hole in every single primary school into which children’s belongings fall, never to be seen again. If you want to maximise chances of getting lost uniform, pencil cases or shoes back, add their name to it all!

Back to school Head in a book Teaching children to love reading will give them pleasure for their whole lives By Justine Crow

It doesn’t take a literary professor to win the argument that being able to read is a vital life skill; whether for pleasure or the practical, from birthday cards to bus tickets, reading enhances our day-to-day lives and enlivens our inner ones. But a ‘love’ of reading enriches us much, much further, because a passion for reading for reading’s sake leads to curiosity. This helps with all areas of education, starting with confidence in spelling and an increased vocabulary, and later on leading to the ability to research and discover independently. Finally, reading for the sheer heck of it is possibly the most intensely satisfying of all lifelong human activities. So, how do you inspire that passion? Here are my top ten tips. 1. With your baby & toddler, choose books YOU like. Your enthusiasm is infectious. Ask the advice of your local bookseller; they are a mine of information. But avoid asking a very small child to choose a book as they are much more interested in the playtable. 2. Learning to read takes time. Have patience and they will crack it eventually. And accept all offers of extra reading support at school without shame.

3. The books they use at school for Foundation Stage & KS1 to learn to read is different from standard picture books. If you want to develop a love of reading, go and buy books after school simply for pleasure. 4. Once they’ve cracked it, the key word is ‘indulge.’ Never say, “You’ve got too many books.” NOBODY has too many books. And if they enjoy a book from a series, buy the next episode. 5. Many of the books we had on our shelves as children are quite difficult for kids today. Save them for reading aloud at bedtime and they will learn to love them as you did.

6. The new wave of illustrated novels for younger readers are brilliant for introducing the classics. 7. Children often choose titles that appear to be too young for them. This is because they know they can manage them. Age ranges on covers are just a guide. And allow them to read anywhere - breakfast table, stairs, backseat, toilet. Turn the cereal packet round, consider a comic subscription and get the paper delivered. 8. Reward them with books that appeal to their passions; Frozen, Peppa Pig, Disney and football. Remember that sticker books are still books, as are colouring, joke, Lego and recipe books.

9. Read by example. Pick up a paperback. If they see you doing it, they will do it too. And finally… 10. Take the lead and share books you love with your children – they will like them too. Too much choice baffles a toddler. As they grow, don’t pressure them to read alone but do it together - they will love that one-to-one attention with you. As they get older, praise their literary taste, no matter how strange - or indeed, how similar it is to yours.

More kids than ever are reading for pleasure Former Children’s Laureate, Malorie Blackman has said she is “delighted” at figures released by the National Literacy Trust that show that increasing numbers of UK schoolchildren are choosing to read in their spare time and are developing a love of books as a result. The Trust asked 32,000 eight to 18 year olds about their reading habits; 40% of the kids questioned thought reading was “cool”, while only 10% said they did not enjoy it.

Favourite books included: • Diary of a Wimpy Kid - Jeff Kinney • The Hunger Games - Suzanne Collins • Twilight - Stephanie Meyer • Harry Potter - JK Rowling • Gangsta Granny - David Walliams • Alex Rider - Anthony Horowitz • How to Train Your Dragon - Cressida Cowell • Divergent - Veronica Roth • Frozen - Calliope Glass • The Fault in our Stars - John Green

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Back to school Inspiring tuition– free trial session! Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition for 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities. The centres are open 7 days a week, meaning Explore can fit into busy family life. As Explore members, children work with tutors who are great educational role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. Each child has an individualised learning programme, and all Explore courses map to the National Curriculum in England and the Curriculum for Excellence in Scotland. Find out how your child can benefit from Explore Learning membership today. Book your free trial at www.explorelearning.co.uk.

Advertise in Families Manchester

Call Jayne on: 01625 801801 or email advertising@familiesmanchester.co.uk

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A galaxy of A*s for Withington Girls’ School

Withington Girls’ School is celebrating another set of excellent A-Level results across the board, reinforcing the Independent Schools Inspectorate’s judgement that the girls’ achievements are ‘exceptional’. Withington enjoys continued success in the core STEM subjects (including Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics) which have been identified by the Government as vital to the country’s future economy and which accounted for over a half of all A levels entered this year. In these subjects, 45% of results were at A*, 82% at A* or A and 92% at A*, A or B. These high achievements underpin the success of Withington students in gaining places at their chosen universities, with

vast majority having gained admission to their first choice university and degree course. Mrs Sue Marks, the Headmistress, said: ‘I am absolutely delighted for our girls and for their teachers and families. These outstanding results don’t just reflect how academically able our students are – they also point to how hard they work, and to how well they have been helped to reach their individual potential by excellent teaching and pastoral care throughout their time at Withington. Our girls are encouraged to make the most of every moment of their time here and we are very pleased that these girls have been involved in so many worthwhile (and enjoyable!) extracurricular activities alongside their academic studies.’ 0161 224 1077 / www.wgs.org

Back to school

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Back to school Header

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Back to school Dealing with dyslexia

Cellfield achieves quick and sustainable results. Average gains of 2 years in reading age can be achieved after just 2 weeks and the gains continue to improve over time. Cellfield works for both adults and children. For more information, please visit the Cellfield UK website at www.cellfielduk.com or our own website www.impacttuitionurmston.co.uk /dyslexia. Or call 0161 747 1819.

By Kelly Barrett, Urmston Tuition Centre Lilly has been a pupil of mine since 2012 and despite being a very bright girl and a gifted mathematician, really struggled with all aspects of literacy. Lilly’s mum, Val, was extremely frustrated that very little seemed to help Lilly in this aspect; she’d tried Toe By Toe, Word Wasp, Word Shark and other programmes designed to help dyslexic pupils but not only did Lilly dislike them, she didn’t make a really significant improvement and felt demoralised. Last year Lilly completed the Cellfield Dyslexia Intervention Programme and immediately saw dramatic improvements. Lilly really enjoyed completing the programme and enjoyed the fact that she could feel the benefits quickly; she began to read fluently instead of just decoding and began to enjoy books –

much to her family’s amazement! Lilly was assessed before and after the intervention programme and we have reassessed her at 6 months and one year. Lilly has sustained and improved on the progress she made during Cellfield. What is Cellfield? Cellfield is a unique intervention programme based on neurological research which helps people break through the barrier to their learning

caused by dyslexia and related processing issues. A computer-based multi-sensory approach, the programme is carried out over 10 days at our centre in Urmston, Manchester, following full reading assessments and eye tests. A follow on phase of ten weeks reinforces the new skills learned during the initial ten days. Assessments are repeated at the end of each phase and full support from trained professionals is available throughout the programme.

“My daughter attended the Cellfield programme in August 2014 and she absolutely loved it. The most amazing aspect of all is that at the end of the programme she read books all weekend for pleasure. Weeks before she would have done anything to avoid reading. The benefits at school have been phenomenal; she has shifted from a reading age of 7 to a reading age of 12 in one term [Lilly is 11 years old]. The teachers had to re-mark her paper three times as they didn’t believe the transformation. This programme is fantastic; it builds confidence and improves performance. A great big thank you from us both.” Val D (Lilly’s mum) Lymm, Cheshire 2015

Helping Your Child with Maths By Rob Eastaway Get ready for a maths test. Don’t worry, it doesn’t involve quadratic equations, and you won’t need a slide rule or even a pencil and paper. You just need to imagine that a 10 year old girl has asked you for help with her homework. Which of the following would you be able to explain to her? • Partitioning • Number Bonds • Multiplication with the grid method • Arrays • Division using chunking You probably found that tough. In fact, I’m prepared to bet that, however good you think you are at maths, you scored very low in that test. Most parents and grandparents score zero, which is a bit worrying given that this terminology is now commonplace in primary schools across the UK. I’ve always been confident in maths, but even I was intimidated by the new teaching methods. When my daughter started primary school, I was annoyed too because I realised that when it came to explaining how to do things, I was stuck

with methods that would mean nothing to her. I was reminded of a friend who sat down to help his son with long division, only for the boy to run off to mum screaming “Dad isn’t helping, he’s just confusing me!” So now that I have got to grips with the new methods and language, what advice can I give you? First of all, relax. Like all jargon, this new language is intimidating, but the methods behind it aren’t actually new at all. One mother, who was terrified about having to learn ‘grid multiplication’ discovered with great relief that it was actually very similar to an improvised method she used herself. Secondly, remember that maths is far more than just the arithmetic children learn at school. It’s the maths they learn while playing board games and helping with the cooking or shopping, which really gives children a sense of numbers and how they fit in the real world. One day, your kids are playing Monopoly, the next they are looking for the best interest rate deals available, or working out the hidden charges on their mobile phone contract!

For those most comfortable with the traditional shorthand methods of long multiplication and division, the good news is that those methods ARE still taught, usually after children have been introduced to the other more intuitive methods. In fact, one of the legacies of Michael Gove’s period as Education Minister is that old-fashioned arithmetic – including knowing times tables up to twelve – is once again knowledge required by all children when they leave primary school. So children will still be expected to do things like ‘borrow one and then pay it back.’ A cautionary tale though. A teacher I met taught subtraction using the traditional method. One day she set a test, which included the calculation 52 take away 16. One boy in the class spotted that you can’t take 6 away from 2, and he knew that this meant he had to borrow. But where from? He noticed that the date was 24 November, so he decided to borrow 4 from the date and add it on to the 2! Everything on the page now added up correctly, as long as the teacher was prepared to accept that he had managed to go back in time four days!

The problem was that Stuart had been taught a mechanical method of arithmetic without any understanding of what it meant. That is why some of the ‘new’ methods, such as grid multiplication, are so useful for many children. They tend to be a bit slower, but they are more visual and children can usually understand them much better than the more efficient ‘black box’ methods that their parents learned. In the end, the most important thing is that your child becomes confident in dealing with numbers. The more they enjoy the maths that they do, the more they will practise, and the better they will get. By the time they are 18, few of them will be using long multiplication or any other written method – they’ll be working things out in their heads or using a calculator, like you do. But they will have gained a deeper understanding of numbers and problem-solving along the way, which will be essential in their adult life. Rob Eastaway is co-author of Maths for Mums & Dads published by Square Peg (Penguin Random House) RRP £10.99.

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Parties Header In The Bag!

Some unusual – and memorable - party bag ideas By Emma Oliver

Are you out of ideas for party bags? Do you think your kids sometimes come home with a bag full of plastic and sweets? You’re not alone. In reality, it’s actually not that difficult to find all manner of unique goodies that will be gratefully received by child and parent alike. With a little time spent searching, and a little creativity thrown in, we discovered alternative children’s party bag ideas that won’t break the bank - and will still be talked about next year!

1. Take home and make a rocket wand or superhero mask from www.cottontwist.co.uk – or why not incorporate that as an activity into the party?

6. Kids will go potty for this playdough pack from the dotty dough factory from £2.50. What’s not to love?

2. From Frozen to Dinosaurs and perfect for all themed parties, Top Trumps go down really well, from £3.99

7. www.LittleLuLubel.com offers gorgeous, pre-filled treat bags for boys and girls, £3.75

3. LEGO Minifigures – blind bags from £2.49 and key rings from £2.99 – who doesn’t enjoy the Danish brick brand?

8. Museum shops offer great party bag ideas. These Chocolate dinosaur lollies from the Natural History Museum www.nhmshop.co.uk make for a unique and delicious rip-roaring treat at £2.00 each

4. Dog pens £3.25 by Red Berry Apple, a personalised rainbow notebook, £2.00 by Half Pint Home, together with a personalised bright and bold pencil case, £6.00 by Popkid. www.notonthehighstreet.com has lots of bespoke ideas. 5. The stretchy award winning Oogi Junior is ultra-cool and offers endless creative options. www.toyella.com £4.99

9. For Summer party gift ideas; juggling balls, buckets & spades, hula-hoops, footballs, skipping ropes and kites all make for reusable outdoor fun to take home. 10. Think outside of the boxbag, with an educational alternative like the Spark Range science kits from www.ThamesandKosmos.com £5.99

PARTY CLASSIFIEDS Crafty Cooks Fun-filled cooking parties for all ages 2+. 07730681798 / beth@craftycooks.co.uk www.craftycooks.co.uk Enjoy-a-Ball, South Manchester Great fun and games with plenty of party action for girls and boys aged 4 – 9 years. 07973 886783 / www.enjoy-a-ball.com Giddy Goat Toys Traditional independent toy shop in Didsbury and online, offering a fantastic range of toys, books and games for children of all ages. 0161 445 1097 / www.giddygoattoys.co.uk R&M Fine Chocolate Great chocolate parties and activities for birthdays and all types of celebration. 07517623906 / rmfinecocolate@gmail.com

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Parents’Header place Fresh organic deliveries to your doorstep

Do you coo?

This local, independent, family business was recognised by the Soil Association as being one of the top 4 Organic box schemes in the whole of the UK, after achieving finalist status in the Soil Association Organic awards 2014 – what an achievement!

The “harvest festival” months of September and October, are fabulous for UK fruit & vegetables. Foodlife has been bringing the best this season has to offer, by delivering fantastic Organic fruit & vegetable boxes, to homes in the Manchester area, for over 20 years! Not only are the vegetables Organic, but many are grown locally by our very own North West Organic Farmers.

To celebrate this fantastic time of year, Foodlife is giving you 10% off of your 1st Organic order placed during September & October 2015. Just add the coupon code “familiesharvest15” when prompted on the website www.foodlifeorganic.co.uk. Minimum spend £12.50. Just be sure to check with Foodlife, that they deliver in your area first! Enjoy your super healthy, super tasty, super convenient (and great value!) Organic veggie box. 0161 4861173 / www.foodlifeorganic.co.uk

A study has shown that mums are more likely to coo and use non-word based language with babies, and dads are more likely to talk in ‘proper’ language. Surprisingly, both approaches are good for your baby’s development and have a role to play in how babies learn language. A team at Washington State University attached microphones to parents of pre-school children and recorded verbal exchanges with their children, using speech recognition software to analyse results. They believe the way women speak to children – using high pitched sounds and cooing to them – promotes bonding, while the more adult speech of dads gives them a bridge to adult life.

Boost your vitality We all know what it’s like to feel physically and mentally exhausted from a busy day at work or with the kids and coping with everything can be an everyday battle. Taking Pharmaton Vitality Capsules helps reduce temporary tiredness and restore vitality when taken daily, and can be taken for a period of twelve weeks. The capsules are packed with the unique Ginseng G115, vitamins and minerals to help relieve temporary periods of fatigue and restore your vitality. Supported by over 30 clinical trials, they are clinically proven to enhance mental and physical performance. Pharmaton Vitality Capsules are a licensed medicine for temporary periods of fatigue. Always read the label. www.pharmaton.co.uk

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Parents’ place Taking control of your career Looking to get back into the workplace but want to avoid restrictive and inflexible working conditions? Part-time work is available at times, though remuneration may not be great and the timing might not suit family life. A solution found by an increasing number of people is to run their own business and take control of their work hours, experience fun and satisfaction, win back those commuting hours and to earn an income.

Bring out the Beauty in you

Do you enjoy working with people and have an interest in beauty? Being your own boss and working when it suits you and your family is an ideal way to combine a beauty career with caring for children.

What are the benefits? You can work as many hours as you want. Some clients may actually prefer you to work in the evenings and at weekends, which can fit well around a family. If you’ve always had a passion for beauty, this could be your chance to turn it into a career. Manchester International Beauty Academy is a new private beauty training academy in the heart of Manchester City Centre offering fully accredited & insurable beauty courses. Contact them for more information. 0161 7060118 / info@manchesterinternational beautyacademy.co.uk / www.manchesterinternational beautyacademy.co.uk

Chaos over childcare support

Parents looking for a new way to create a career and experience the financial rewards of being their own boss could find franchising a really good way of getting their own venture off the ground with a ready-made business model and ongoing support. Franchises exist for all sorts of activities such as cleaning, food outlets – and publishing. Sites like www.workingmums.co.uk are a good place to look for franchise

opportunities that may suit you, and www.mumandcareer.co.uk offers career support services for professional working mums. Families Cheshire Magazine is a franchise, one of 40 Families® magazines nationwide and part of a great brand that first launched in 1990 in south west London. See opposite for more info about this highly desirable business opportunity!

me&i: in it for the fun!

me&i is a Swedish clothing company that makes clothes with a unique design and comfortable fit. These individual and eye-catching items are exclusively available from a team of local consultants either at a party or through direct enquiry. me&i is currently looking to expand its team of consultants. If you have an interest in fashion, have strong networking and social skills and feel you could sell a product you are passionate about this could be the opportunity for you. This is a great role to either supplement other work or to build on long term as a successful

growing business. me&i can offer you a tried and tested concept with plenty of freedom and flexibility as well as lots of support. You get: • Free training and personal coach for help and support • Tailored coaching programme to get you started • 20% - 25% commission + excellent bonus structure • A business that allows you to fit your work around the family. • Minimum admin • A great network of supporting colleagues • A fantastic wardrobe for both yourself and your children at some excellent discounts To find out more email sellmeandi@meandi.eu or contact one of coaches direct for a no obligation chat: Clare 07730 218331 www.meandi.eu

Dad’s in charge?

Changes in the workplace voucher system has led to confusion among many UK parents, with some not being fully informed about the childcare support changes. The system has previously allowed working parents to be able to pay childminders with vouchers worth up to £243 per month. Parents could ‘buy’ these with their pre-tax salary. This has meant a saving of up to £930 per family.

From this autumn, however, the scheme will change. Families will now claim a ‘top-up’ payment, which means they can claim support worth 20p for each £1 they spend on child care. Single parents who earn below £150,000 or couples who earn less than £300,000 (£150,000 per partner) can claim, though families with one parent who stays at home are not eligible. The worry for many is that, with parents having to work out the rules and apply for payments themselves, some will slip through the loop. In the past, many employers helped with this. There is also confusion because the voucher system will remain but it’s unclear as to whether families will have to re-apply. At the time of going to print, we were trying to get an answer from the Government on this point.

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New rules have completely changed the way parents can take time off after having a baby. Shared Parental Leave regulations give eligible parents across the UK flexibility to juggle childcare between them. After a compulsory two weeks off for the mother, parents can share up to 50 weeks of leave in the baby’s first year (or the first year of adoption). The law applies to same sex couples and those

bringing up a child together, even if it’s from a previous relationship. How you split the leave is up to you. It will depend on who earns more, who feels their career will be least affected by taking time off, and who wants to be at home. Significantly, for the first time, dads can take all or most of the year off while mums return to work. The leave can be taken in blocks (up to three each) so you can alternate time off if one of you has a particularly busy time at work before resuming parental leave. Finances will play an important part in the decision. While you can share up to 50 weeks, only 37 are paid. You will receive £139.58 per week or 90% of your average weekly earnings, whichever is lower. See more on www.gov.uk/government/ topical-events/shared-parental-leave.

Parents’ place How to find your dream job now the kids are at school

Are you a stay-at-home parent who’s looking to get back in to work, a teacher who dreams of being a landscape gardener, or a lawyer who want a move away from the legal world? Fiona Clark, from Inspired Mums career and confidence coaching, helps with some ideas to find your new career direction. Maybe you secretly know what you want to do, but haven’t plucked up the courage to go for it, or you just don’t want to continue in your current job or what you’ve done in the past. If you have been out of the workplace for a while, knee-deep in nappies, it’s all too easy to lose sight of what skills you have to offer. But being a parent allows you to develop and acquire a wide range of new skills. Rediscover your natural skills It’s easy to undervalue something which comes easily, but you need to be proud of your skills and focus on how they can help you find your dream job. • Think about a typical week - with family, helping at school or when you do sport – and write down all the skills you use doing them. • List the skills you’ve used in previous jobs and life situations. • Choose five core skills you enjoy using most and would like to use in your future career, playing to your strengths so you can enjoy work. • How can you use those skills in different working environments - can your project management skills be used to set up your own business?

So how can you come up with new ideas for a career? Try using different resources like social media and your network to stimulate your thoughts and generate new career ideas. Career brainstorm questions Here are some thought-provoking questions to get you going… • What did you want to be or do when you were younger? What attracted you to it? • What would you do if you won the Lottery and could choose what to be or do? • What hobbies/interests do you have or would you take up if you had more time? • What kinds of roles have attracted you on paper, even though you’ve never applied for them? • Who in your network has a job that fascinates you? What is that role? • If you could try someone else’s job for a day, what job would you choose? • What industry or organisation would you love to work in? In an ideal world, what would you like to do for them? • What type of people do you want to be interacting with or helping? • When you think about your favourite days in previous roles, what clues does that give to your future career?

How about working from home around your family – become the new owner of Families Manchester

It’s been four brilliant years since we took over the reins of this fabulous local magazine, but now we’re ready to pass the baton onto a new passionate editor – could that be you? A Families franchise really is like being part of a big family – you can expect as much invaluable training and input from head office as you need, as well as from the other editors in the group – there are almost 40 of us across the UK! And with Families Manchester being so established in the region, you don’t have to worry about starting from scratch. We’ve got a

great, reliable and friendly team of self-employed distributors, long term and supportive advertisers and distribution points, and of course, loyal readers. So if you’re keen to be your own boss, but not feel like you’re really just working on your own, then this is for you! Of course, ideally you’ll be a parent with some local knowledge, but no previous experience is necessary – just common sense, self motivation and lots of enthusiasm. Get in touch with us for a chat today on 01625 801801 or via email: editor@familiesmanchester.co.uk

Fiona Clark is a qualified confidence and career coach who founded Inspired Mums to help women reach their full potential at work. Contact fiona@inspiredmums.co.uk, tel. 07789 597209 or visit www.inspiredmums.co.uk.

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Clubs & classes CLUBS & CLASSES CLASSIFIEDS

Baby Signing, South Manchester The Babysign Teacher provides the most successful classes to teach your baby to sign. We run short courses and taster sessions at various venues in the South Manchester area. For details, visit our website: www.thebabysignteacher.co.uk, email: carolyn@thebabysignteacher.co.uk orcall Carolyn on: 07528 262142. Crafty Cooks, Urmston A fun-filled cooking class for children from aged 2. Pre-school classes on Tuesday afternoons, classes for ages 2 - 11 on the third Saturday of every month. 07730 681798 / beth@craftycooks.co.uk / www.craftycooks.co.uk Little Monkeys Club, Marple Bridge Increase your child’s confidence, co-ordination and fitness through a fun variety of climbing equipment, soft play, shapes, music and movement (including badge scheme) for children walking to 5 years. Tuesday mornings at Brabyns Recreation Centre, Marple Bridge. Call Karen 07986 182884 or visit www.karenbrook.co.uk/little-monkeys Musical Monkeys Musical entertainment and more for pre-school children aged 1+. First class free, and younger siblings under one welcome free of charge too! Classes in Sale & Timperley and coming soon to Altrincham and Lymm. 0161 976 5176 / www.musical-monkeys.co.uk

Gymbabes/Tumble Tots/Gymbobs Classes to develop children’s physical skills of agility, balance, co-ordination and climbing. Bolton/Bury: – Carla: 07496 212259 Bramhall, Cheadle & The Heatons – Sue/Gill: 07851 268083 / 07800 532227 Sale, Knutsford, Disbury, Hale & Timperley – Jane: 07812 144450 / www.tumbletots.com 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. Centres in Altrincham, Cheadle Hulme, Heaton Park, Sale and Bury. www.explorelearning.co.uk Enjoy-a-Ball A fun sports programme that gradually develops skills such as concentration, coordination and confidence in a caring, positive and fun environment. Classes for children aged 3-9 years packed with fun activities and games are held in Didsbury & Chorlton. Holiday camps and birthday parties also available. Contact Sam on 07973 886783, or Caroline on 07947 069394 www.enjoy-a-ball.com Fleet Tutors Education solutions tailored to you, delivering proven results. 0845 322 4696 / www.fleet-tutors.co.uk Little Belters For kids who love to sing (5-11 years old). Free taster session. No audition necessary. Clasees in Altrincham (Tues), Cheadle (Wed), Chorlton (Thurs), Didsbury (Mon), Lymm (Thurs) and Sale (Mon). 07779 668204 / www.littlebelters.co.uk

Mini Professors now running in Cheadle Hulme This innovative and fun class for 2-4 year olds will open up a whole new world of scientific adventure to your child. With weekly new and exciting topics, each lesson is packed full of experiments, singing, stories and loads of fun. As with any language, children can easily absorb and learn from an early age. That’s why scientific terminology isn’t “dumbed down”, but just explained with fun “hands-on” experiments. Mini Professors are encouraged to explore for themselves and interact as much as possible.

Weekly classes are held at Cheadle Hulme Methodist Church on Thursdays at 10.30 (age 2-3) and 11.30 (age 3-4), as well as once a month on a Saturday morning. New class will be starting soon; “Like” Mini Professors Stockport on FB for new class announcements and regular updates. To find out more, call Professor Abeer on 07968 499224 or email stockport@miniprofessors.co.uk. www.miniprofessors.co.uk

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Mini Professors, Cheadle Hulme Scientific adventure classes for ages 2 - 4 packed with experiments, singing, stories and loads of fun. Classes held weekly on Thursday mornings and once a month on Saturdays. 07968 499224 / stockport@miniprofessors.co.uk / www.miniprofessors.co.uk Palms School of Dance Fun friendly dance classes for children aged 2+ in ballet, modern and tap. With venues in Cadishead and Warrington there are plenty of classes to choose from. Join us to take part in annual shows, exams, concerts. Contact via Facebook, email info@ palmsschoolofdance.co.uk or phone 07939614406. www.palmsschoolofdance.co.uk Physi-Ball A fun class for toddlers aged 18 months - 3 years aimed at developing core stability and gross motor co-ordination. Perfect preparation for Enjoy-a-Ball classes from aged 3. Classes in Chorlton and Didsbury. Contact Sam on 07973 886783, or Caroline on 07947 069394. www.enjoy-a-ball.com

Puddle Ducks A wonderful swimming programme delivering nurturing, fun classes to over 13,000 babies, children and mummies across the UK every week. Babies and children can join our swimming classes at any age from birth, developing into confident swimmers without even realising they’re learning to swim. By engaging each child’s abilities and natural affinity with water, Puddle Ducks offer simple steps to a lifetime love of swimming. Every child is different: our fantastic teachers adapt each activity to suit your child, nurturing water confidence and enjoyment. Mums to be can also keep fit, relax and unwind by joining our Aqua Natal classes. Call 0161 883 0222 (Manchester, Stockport and Oldham) or 01257 262622 (East Lancashire). www.puddleducks.com Stagecoach Theatre Arts School Performing arts for ages 4 – 18. Altrincham – Marion: 01925 222445 Bolton & Bury – Ruth: 0161 763 6161 Didsbury & Salford – Anne: 0161 789 1349 Oldham – Kate: 01204 301320 Stockport – Cathy: 0161 834 4274 www.stagecoach.co.uk Impact Tuition Ofsted registered independent tuition Centre run by qualified, friendly teachers 5-16, 11+, GCSE. Specialist Dyslexia Centre. 0161 747 1819 / www.impacttuitionurmston.co.uk

Tumble Tots is back! Tumble Tots is coming to back to Bolton and Bury at last and they are very excited and proud to be opening their first venue in Tottington on Friday 18 September followed by Whitefield on Thursday 1 October. More will follow as they expand into Bolton in the coming months. Many of you will know Tumble Tots as the UK’s leading national active physical play programme for children from 6 months old to pre-school. Each 45 minute programme is designed to develop your child’s agility, balance, co-ordination and climbing while

at the same time encouraging their sense of self-confidence, self-esteem and enhancing brain development in a fun and caring environment. Parents with children under three actively participate in sessions and will enjoy meeting other parents with children of a similar age. Please visit www.tumbletots.com/bolton to secure your place and join in this unique programme which has benefitted so many children since 1979. You can like them on Facebook too to keep up to date with all the latest news. www.facebook.com/tumbletotsbolton

Clubs & classes Too Much, Too Soon?

Are we pushing our kids too far by signing them up to lots of clubs and classes - or offering valuable advantages? By Sally J. Hall

Most parents agree; kids need to be stimulated and to have plenty going on to stop them getting bored. Mums and dads are only too aware of the value of after-school clubs to ensure their children are well looked after and stimulated. But with a vast range on offer, it can be tempting to sign them up for a different activity every evening. Piano on Monday, gymnastic Tuesday, maths Wednesday – and so it goes on, with even more over the weekend. Of course we might not all be able to offer our child such a packed schedule – finances alone might make this impossible – but there’s no doubt that a couple of well-chosen activities can be great for giving your child an insight into areas that the school curriculum can’t cover.

What age is best to start classes? Early years: They get very tired so keep outside activities to a minimum. For excess energy, a good run in the park is great for letting off steam. An art, singing or baby ballet-type class with the emphasis on play would be great. Infant school: Add a low-key activity to look forward to. Singing, music making, dancing, simple sports and swimming are all great choices for little ones. Junior school: As dreaded tests loom, add an educational class if your child is struggling with one subject. Extra maths or reading tuition can make al the difference to confidence. Senior school: It’s easier to add activities as energy and independence increases. As more exams come up, be flexible about allowing them to miss or drop activities.

What’s on the menu? Mini Mozart? Many parents are convinced their child is a musical genius – and they may be right – but pushing a child into playing an instrument can put them off for life! From seven years, a 30 or 45 minute class is plenty, with ten minutes of daily practice. This can increase slowly. Fitness Fanatic Sports and dance are great for fitness and flexibility and the chance to play with teams from other areas – though for younger kids, avoid classes that are too aggressive or pressurised. Be prepared for many hours spent track, field or pool-side if your child loves sports. Mastermind If one subject is a struggle, one-to-one tuition can pay dividends and if your child wants to study a particular subject later on, it can be invaluable. Mini Thespian Kids thrive in acting and singing classes and may go on to theatre school. It builds confidence and the ability to express themselves.

Alternatives For every kind of child, there’s an activity to suit, so check our classifieds included in this magazine as well as online to see what’s near you. From archery to zoology, you’ll find something they love. What do clubs and classes offer your child? • A chance to mix with children from other schools and areas; this will widen your child’s social circle • A chance to take part in artistic, musical and sporting activities not offered at school • A potential career • Teamwork skills • Increases confidence and the ability to mix • The ability to develop persistence and patience But – play is important too Educational Psychologist Peter Gray wrote in the Independent that we should allow our children more time for playing. He believes that more time in the classroom and less at play can be detrimental, because kids miss out on life skills that can only be learned through play. “Judgement, wisdom and creative ability …come from life experiences,” he says. “For children, those experiences are embedded in play.” Sally J. Hall is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and contributing author to Watch My baby Grow (Dorling Kindersley).

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What’s on ARE YOU FEELING LUCKY?!

Toytopia – utopia for kids! WIN a Sony 32” LCD TV and Sony Xperia E4g with Hotel Transylvania 2! To celebrate the launch of the second instalment in the Hotel Transylvania franchise (in cinemas on 16 October), Sony Pictures will be hosting a day of fun activities at the Manchester Arndale on Saturday 17 October with this season’s most fang-tastic guests! Meet and have your photos taken with Dracula, Frankenstein, Johnny, Mavis and Murray from the film and take your keepsake home in a personalised Hotel Transylvania frame! Other activities will include the Unlucky Dip game, Mummy wrapping and the Howl Booth. Watch the film trailer at the stand and enter the competition to win fantastic prize packages from Visit Romania and Chessington World of Adventures.

But that’s not all! Families has teamed up with Sony Pictures to offer you the chance to win a Sony 32” LCD TV and a Sony Xperia E4g handset! What a monstrously amazing prize! All you need to do is head over to our website www.familiesmanchester.co.uk to enter! The competition closes on Friday 9 October – ghoulishly good luck to you! See more about the film at www.hotelt.co.uk and www.facebook.com/ checkintohotelt

16 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Toytopia is a brand new magical family experience; a truly unique day out where you (ahem…the kids) can play with masses of toys, drive mini cars, whizz around on scooters, conquer the inflatable assault course, delight in Live Shows, take selfies with your favourite characters and win toys to take home.

Buy your tickets online before the show for just £15 each when you use the code TOYTOPIA518 at www.ticketquarter.co.uk/toytopia Under 3’s go FREE, and all entertainment for the day is included in your ticket price!

Toytopia is on during the half term holidays (Sat 24 – Mon 26 October) at the Exhibition Centre Liverpool, Kings Dock L3 4FP. For more information, go to www.toytopiaworld.com

National Awareness Days Look out for some great local activities across the region in September and October and show your support where you can:

Heritage Open Days: 10th-13th September www.heritageopendays.org.uk Alternative Family Week: 13th- 19th September / www.alternativeparenting.co.uk/ alternative-family-week.html Road Dahl Day: 13th September www.roalddahl.com/create-and-learn/ join-in/roald-dahl-day National Cup Cake Week: 14th-20th September www.nationalcupcakeweek.co.uk Black History Month: October www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk/ national-listings/4568893148

Jeans for Genes day: 18th September www.jeansforgenesday.org Great British Beach Clean: 18th-21st September www.mcsuk.org/beachwatch Wear it Pink (Breast cancer awareness): 20th-24th October www.wearitpink.org World Space Week: 4th-10th October www.worldspaceweek.org British Food Fortnight: 19th September – 4th October www.lovebritishfood.co.uk/british-foodfortnight/what-is-british-food-fortnight?

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

Every Mon in Sept & Oct

Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester Early Years Atelier 10am – 4pm / toddlers / Free, drop-in. An informal, drop-in laboratory for trying out ideas and playing with materials - a place where young children can get messy, play creatively and follow their own interests. 0161 275 7450 / www.manchester.ac.uk

Every Tues in Sept

Touchstones, Rochdale Baby Play Baby Do 11 – 11.45am / Under 2s / Free, drop-in. Creative discovery and sensory play sessions in the Art Gallery for babies aged 0-2 and their parents. 01706 924492 / www.link4life.org/touchstones

Every Wed in Sept & Oct

Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester Artbaby / Musicbaby 10.15am – 11.15am & 11.30am –12.30pm / Free but book in advance. Sensory workshops for babies and their grown ups, led by artists and musicians. 0161 275 7450 / www.manchester.ac.uk

Touchstones, Rochdale Shake, Rattle and Roll 11am – 12pm / Age 2 – 4 / Free. Make some noise in the Art Gallery! A fun, musical drop-in session in the Art Gallery. 01706 924492 / www.link4life.org/touchstones

Fri 4 Sept

Manchester Art Gallery Baby Art Club 10.15 – 11am, 11.30am – 12.15pm, 1.15 – 2pm, 2.30 –3.15pm / Free, but book a week in advance. Use all your senses to explore our artist’s space. For babies who aren’t walking yet. 0161 235 8888 / www.manchesterartgallery.org Hat Works, Stockport Bowler Hat Babies 10.30am – 11.15am & 11.30am – 12.15pm / Babies to walking / £5 per baby, booking essential Settle down in the new Hands on Zone and hear the tale of a lost hat, before trying out the sensory play areas designed especially for very young children. 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/hatworks

Ordsall Hall, Salford Once upon a Time 9.45am / Under 5s / £1. Discover what is behind the doors of Ordsall Hall with a different activity each week such as storytelling, craft or music. www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Smithills Hall, Bolton Fantastic Fridays 12.30 – 2pm / Age 3 – 11 / £1 Learn about Heraldry and make your own shield. www.visitbolton.com

Every Friday in Sept & Oct

Fri 4 – Sun 6 Sept

The Hive, Moss Bank Park, Bolton Nature Tots 10 – 11.15am / Age 15 mnths – 5 yrs / £4 per child Exciting weekly activities where your child can engage with nature, solve problems, be creative and improve communication skills. 01204 663 754 / www.lancswt.org.uk/nature-tots

Every Sun in Sept & Oct

Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester Artist Sundays 10am – 5pm / All ages / Free, drop-in Extraordinary artists invent offbeat and imaginative ways for you and your family to explore the Whitworth. 0161 275 7450 / www.manchester.ac.uk Salford Museum & Art Gallery Creative Sundays 12.30 – 3pm / Age 5 – 10 / Free, drop-in. A fun afternoon of arts and crafts – a different activity each week. On the first Sunday of every month Mr Tomlinson’s shop is open for business selling sweet treats! On these days there are no additional craft activities. www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Every weekend in Sept

IWM North Horrible Histories: Blitzed Brits 1.30pm / All ages / Free Hear first-hand accounts of evacuated children separated from their parents for the first time, discover stories of ordinary people who stayed in the cities under constant threat of bombs, and learn about the resilience and inventiveness of people who lived through the Blitz. www.iwm.org.uk

Thurs 3 Sept

John Rylands Library, Manchester Toddler Tales 10.30 – 11.30am / Under 5s / Free, drop in. Come and join us in our cosy corner and pull up a cushion. Enjoy great stories, songs and other fun activities. 0161 306 0555 / www.manchester.ac.uk National Football Museum, Manchester Baby Moves 10.30am & 1.30pm / 0 – 12 months / £3 (booking essential). A fantastic play and movement session to help your baby’s physical, communication and language development. 0161 871 8145 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

Eccles Recreation Ground Eccles Festival Funfair Traditional funfair with thrill and spills for all the family. Dog Show and Morris dancing display on Sunday. www.salford.gov.uk

Fri 4, 11 & 18 Sept

The Lowry, Salford Under 5s First Steps 10 – 10.45am & 11 – 11.45am / Age 2 ½ - 4 ½ / £3.50 Let your little one discover their creativity as they wriggle, jiggle and jump while exploring stories, rhythm and music through their bodies. 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

What’s on

Lyme Park, Disley Xplorer orienteering 10am – 12pm / All ages / Free (normal admission applies). A great introduction to orienteering and how to use a map. 01663 762023 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme-park Eccles Town Centre, Station, St Mary’s Park & Parish Church Love Eccles Festival 2015: Alice in Wonderland 10am – 4pm (Carnival parade 2pm). Celebrating 150 years since the publication of this nonsensical children’s book. The Town Centre comes alive with street acts, a carnival parade, live music, Teenage Market , shopping, festival stalls, tea rituals and a big Cheshire cat grin of comedy and nonsense. www.salford.gov.uk Hall i’ th’ Wood Museum, Bolton Crafternoons 1 – 3pm / All ages / Free. Family friendly activities with a ‘Gruffalo’ theme. www.boltonmuseums.org.uk

Sat 5 & Sun 6 Sept

Lyme Park, Disley Pemberley Revisited 12 – 4pm / All ages / normal admission applies. Enjoy Regency dancing and dressing up, in the garden where Elizabeth met Darcy in ‘that shirt’! You could even bump into your very own Mr Darcy. 01663 762023 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme-park Tatton Park, Knutsford American Civil War at the Old Hall 12 – 5pm / All ages / Adult £6, Child (ages 4-15) £4, Family (2 + 3) £16, normal admission applies Gunfire and skirmish, bugle and drum. A spectacular and noisy battle each day. 01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sun 6 Sept

Warrington Fire Station Open Day 11am – 4pm www.cheshirefire.gov.uk The Museum of Transport, Greater Manchester Trans Lancs Transport Show 11.30am – 4.30pm. Family friendly day out featuring classic & modern transport. Free heritage buses between the Museum & Heaton Park (Middleton Rd Gates) every 20 mins. 0161 205 2122 / www.gmts.co.uk Ordsall Hall, Salford Through the Ages... Live! 1pm / All ages / £1 per child. A monthly family fun day packed with arts, crafts and activities. www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Tues 8, 15, 22 & 29 Sept

Bolton Aquarium Tiddler Tuesday fun 1 – 3pm / Age 2 ½ - 5 / Free, but book in advance Share a story with your fishy friends in the aquarium, do a craft activity and feed the fish! A 4 week course run in partnership with Bolton College. www.boltonmuseums.org.uk

Sat 5 Sept

IWM North Family Days: Peace All ages / Free. Marking International Day of Peace, discover remarkable stories of people who made sacrifices to promote peace, not war. The whole family can get involved in craft activities and object handling. Join in with Storytelling, then drop into the Open Studio to make your own origami peace dove to take home. www.iwm.org.uk

Manchester Art Gallery Baby Saturday 1 – 3pm / Free, drop-in Sensory exploration for babies who aren’t walking yet. 0161 235 8888 / www.manchesterartgallery.org John Rylands Library, Manchester Children’s spookily gothic tour 2 – 3pm / Age 5+ / Free but book in advance. A fun behind-the-scenes tour of The John Rylands Library. 0161 306 0555 / www.manchester.ac.uk Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester Outdoor Art Club 10am – 12pm / Age 8+ / Free but book in advance A workshop that brings art, nature and creativity together that takes place come rain and shine in the great outdoors. 0161 275 7450 / www.manchester.ac.uk

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What’s on Header Fri 11 Sept

Manchester Art Gallery Mini Art Club Get to know artworks, investigate materials and make friends in our artist led workshop. 10.15 – 11.15am and 11.30 – 12.30pm / Age 1 – 4 / Free, but book a week in advance. 0161 235 8888 / www.manchesterartgallery.org Hat Works, Stockport Messy Milliners 11am & 1pm / Babies to walking / £3 per baby An exciting and innovative messy play session with a hatting theme. 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/hatworks

Fri 11 Sept & Fri 2 Oct

The Lowry, Salford Under 5s Doodle Tots 10am – 10.45am & 11.15 – 12pm / Age2 ½ - 4 ½ / £3.50 Enjoy painting, sticking and making your own works of art in this colourful workshop. No skills or expertise needed in this relaxed and friendly atmosphere. 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Sat 12 Sept

Manchester Museum Autism Friendly Early Opening: See, make & do at the Museum 9.15 – 1.30am / Age 5 – 16 with parent/carer and siblings / Free, drop-in. Activities take place before the Museum opens to the general public and there will be a quiet room available too. 0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Heritage Open Day 11am – 4pm / Free entry Artists Midconversation will be holding workshops for children to make a rainmaker. 01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ quarry-bank

Z-arts, Hulme International Roald Dahl Fun Day 11am – 3pm / All ages / Free. Dress as your favourite characters, share stories from Revolting Rhymes and Dirty Beasts and make characters from your favourite stories. 0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org Touchstones, Rochdale Art4Families Saturday Club 1 – 2.30pm / Age 5 – 12 / £2, booking essential Leaf Art Join the Red Rose Forest team and explore Broadfield Park for a leaf ID hunt and then create a coloured, scented salt dough leaf artwork at Touchstones. Children must be accompanied. 01706 924492 / www.link4life.org/touchstones Hall i’ th’ Wood Museum, Bolton Heritage Open Day 12 – 4pm / All ages / Free admission and tour www.boltonmuseums.org.uk Ivy Street Park, Salford Ivy Street Picnic in the Park 12 – 3pm / Free. Make a picnic and head on down to the park for lots of children’s activities, sports and a chance for a gossip with your neighbours. 0161 605 7798 / www.salford.gov.uk

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

Sat 12 & Sun 13 Sept

The Museum of Transport, Greater Manchester Heritage Open Days Free admission & free heritage buses between the Museum, MoSI & People’s History Museum. 0161 205 2122 / www.gmts.co.uk The Lowry Outlet Mall, Salford Quays Waterside Food & Craft Market The open-air market offering the finest seasonal produce, gifts and crafts. Live music and free circus style mini shows for kids. www.lowryoutlet.co.uk/ Lyme Park, Disley Dogs in the garden 11am – 5pm / Normal admission applies. Dogs are allowed to bring their owners attached to a lead into the garden this weekend. 01663 762023 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme-park

Fri 18 – Sun 20 Sept

Ramsbottom Cricket Club Ramsbottom Festival 2015 A weekend of music, arts and activities for all the family. www.ramsbottomfestival.com

Sat 19 Sept

Ribble Steam Railway, Preston Steam Day 10.30 – 5pm / Adult £6, Child £4, Family £18 Unlimited train rides. 01772 728800 / www.ribblesteam.org.uk

Sat 19 & Sun 20 Sept

Rudyard Lake Steam Railway, Leek Steam Gala Day rover tickets: Adult £5, Child £.50. All available locomotives running, extra attractions and visiting engines. 01995 672280 / www.rlsr.org

Bolton Steam Museum Steam Days 10am - 4pm / Free, but donations very welcome. Over 25 old, restored, stationary steam engines – most will be running in steam. 01204 846490 / www.nmes.org

Lyme Park, Disley Autumn Craft and Food Fair 11am – 5pm / Normal admission applies. Celebrate autumn by picking up some terrific local food, inspirational gifts, and enjoy the stunning gardens. 01663 762023 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme-park

Sun 13 Sept

Tatton Park, Knutsford Harvest Festival at the Farm Normal entry times and prices apply. Steam engines, scarecrow making and spinning. Make your own corn doll, sheep racing and woodturning demos. Harvest Blessing at 2pm with Preston Brook brass band. Bring your own pets to be blessed. 01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Smithills Hall, Bolton Heritage Open Day 12 – 4pm / All ages / Free admission www.boltonmuseums.org.uk

Fri 25 Sep

Rossmill, Hale Barns WA15 0EJ Wild Foods Walkabout 2 – 3pm / Older children (must be accompanied) / Free but advance booking essential. Search for fruits, seeds, leaves and flowers that can be safely eaten. 01625 374790 / www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangers

Tues 15 Sept

Manchester Museum Baby Explorers 10.30 – 11.15am & 11.30am – 12.15pm / Free but book in advance from a week before or attend the drop-in session between 1 & 2pm. Sensory play and interactive story sessions for babies who aren’t walking yet. Baby Explorers Drop In, 1 – 2pm 0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum The People’s History Museum, Manchester The Little People’s History Museum – Beeing Special 11am – 12pm / Under 5s / Suggested donation £3 (booking essential). Meet Little Bee, the bee who wants to be different. Join in the busy bee dance, search for flowers in the museum and follow Little Bee’s adventure to find out how he becomes the hero of Victorian Manchester. Fun interactive story session with puppets, song, dance and a craft activity. www.phm.org.uk Z-arts, Hulme Baby Play 10.30am / Free, but limited places, booking advised. Sensory workshops for babies and their grownups to explore new spaces and sounds, art and music. 0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org

Fri 18 Sept

The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Music Makers: Baby & Toddler sessions Toddlers (walking – age 4): 11am & 12pm Babies (non- walking): 1.45pm and 2.45pm Free but booking essential. Music and sensory play sessions. 0161 907 9000 / www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk Hat Works, Stockport Top Hat Toddlers 10.30am – 12.30pm / Under 4s / £3 per child A ‘stay and play’ drop in session for toddlers and pre-schoolers with lots to do! 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/hatworks

18 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Manchester Museum Magic Carpet 10.30 – 11.30am and 11.30am – 12.30pm / Under 5s / Free but book in advance 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), Manchester Experitots: Light and Colour 10.30am – 12pm. A creative activity session for under 6s using puppets and storytelling to help toddlers get the most out of the hands on science gallery, Experiment! 0161 832 2244 / www.mosi.org.uk Hat Works, Stockport Baby Art 2 – 3.30pm / under 2s / £5 per baby, booking essential Let your little ones express themselves with a variety of art media and let us do the clearing up! 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/hatworks

Sat 26 Sep

Manchester Museum Early Opening for Early Birds 9 – 10am / Under 5s, siblings and families / Free, drop-in Enjoy self-led tours, object handling and craft activities in The Living Worlds and Nature Discovery galleries. Big Saturday: Bees and Butterflies 11am – 4pm. Find out more about the Rooftop Bee hive, meet Curators, enjoy a behind the scenes tour (11am ages 8+, limited places), discover more about some of the bees and butterflies in the Museum’s collections, and find out about their important work. Create butterfly or bee wings to wear as you explore the galleries. 0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum The Lowry, Salford Birmingham Royal Ballet Open Class 11.15am / All ages / Adult £10, Child £5. Your chance to look behind the scenes and watch Birmingham Royal Ballet’s talented dancers in their final preparations for a performance of world class dancing. 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Sat 26 & Sun 27 Sept

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Autumn Fair 11am – 4pm. Take part in all things autumn with outdoor activities, local food and crafts. Join in with Quarry Bank’s Rangers and Gardeners, for a weekend of activities for all the family. 01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank

Tues 29 Sept

Manchester Museum Baby Explorers 10.30 – 11.15am & 11.30am – 12.15pm / Free but book in advance from a week before or attend the drop-in session between 1 & 2pm. Sensory play and interactive story sessions for babies who aren’t walking yet. 0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum

Thurs 1 – Sun 4 Oct

Tatton Park, Knutsford Moscow State Circus An awe inspiring new show from the world’s most famous circus.
 0844 856 5555 / www.moscowstatecircus.com

Fri 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 Oct

The Lowry, Salford Under 5s First Steps 10 – 10.45am & 11 – 11.45am / Age 2 ½ - 4 ½ / £3.50 Let your little one discover their creativity as they wriggle, jiggle and jump while exploring stories, rhythm and music through their bodies. 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Sat 3 Oct

Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester Outdoor Art Club 10am – 12pm / Age 8+ / Free but book in advance A workshop that brings art, nature and creativity together that takes place come rain and shine in the great outdoors. 0161 275 7450 / www.manchester.ac.uk Lyme Park, Disley Xplorer orienteering 11am – 1pm / All ages / Free (normal admission applies). A great introduction to orienteering and how to use a map. 01663 762023 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme-park

Sat 3 & Sun 4 Oct

Event City, Manchester The Family Pet Show 9.30 – 5pm. A great family event for pet lovers – food, toys, accessories, fun dog shows, educational and entertaining. www.thefamilypetshow.co.uk East Lancashire Railway, Bury Day out with Thomas Magic shows, circus workshops, face painting, Thomas table top games, storytelling, film screenings, meet the Fat Controller and ride on Thomas himself. 0161 764 7790 / www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

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

Sun 4 Oct

Ordsall Hall, Salford Through the Ages... Live! 1pm / All ages / £1 per child. A monthly family fun day packed with arts, crafts and activities. www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Sat 3, Tues 27 & Thurs 29 Oct John Rylands Library, Manchester Children’s spookily gothic tour 3 Oct: 11 – 12pm, 27 Oct: 4 – 5pm, 29 Oct: 3 – 4pm / Age 5+ / Free but book in advance. A fun behind-the-scenes tour of The John Rylands Library. 0161 306 0555 / www.manchester.ac.uk

Sun 4 Oct

Tatton Park, Knutsford Tatton Apple Day Normal entry times and prices apply. Games and children’s activities in celebration of the apple. 01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Fri 9 – Sun 11 Oct

Event City, Manchester The Baby & Toddler Show Bargain shopping and expert advice for new parents. www.babyandtoddlershow.co.uk

Fri 9 Oct – Sun 1 Nov

Across Cheshire & Manchester Get Creative: Family Arts Festival 2015 A national festival of family arts events presented by a range of organisations. www.familyartsfestival.com

Sat 10 & Sun 11 Oct

The Pavilion Gardens, Buxton Great Peak District Fair & Buxton Beer Festival 10am – 5pm. An annual celebration of locally produced food, and arts and crafts. Entertainment for all the family including local brass bands, climbing walls, face painting, children’s rides, falconry and farm animals. 01298 23114 / www.paviliongardens.co.uk Lyme Park, Disley Dogs in the garden 11am – 5pm / Normal admission applies. Dogs are allowed to bring their owners attached to a lead into the garden this weekend. 01663 762023 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme-park Tatton Park, Knutsford Food and Gift Fair 10.30am – 5pm / Free admission to the fair, but normal Park entry charge applies. Everything from art to fashion. 01530 834056 / www.countrywide-events.co.uk

Sun 11 Oct

The Wellbeing Farm, Bolton Harvest Festival & Handmade Market £1 entry (under 5’s free). A family event to celebrate the harvest. Talks, demonstrations, a handmade market, with activities for all the family including a bouncy castle, cookery demonstrations showcasing the best of British produce and puppet shows. 01204 852113 / www.thewellbeingfarm.co.uk

Tues 13 Oct

Z-arts, Hulme Baby Play 10.30am / Free, but limited places, booking advised. Sensory workshops for babies and their grownups to explore new spaces and sounds, art and music. 0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org

Fri 16 Oct

What’s on Sun 18 Oct

The Museum of Transport, Greater Manchester Free Museum Bus Rides Day - for all the family! Enjoy a free ride on heritage buses from the Museum, operating services in the local area. 0161 205 2122 / www.gmts.co.uk

Fri 23 – Sun 25 Oct

Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI), Manchester Experitots: Who am I? 10.30am – 12pm. A creative activity session for under 6s using puppets and storytelling to help toddlers get the most out of the hands on science gallery, Experiment! 0161 832 2244 / www.mosi.org.uk

Tatton Park, Knutsford North West Food Lover’s Festival A top line up for the Chef Demonstration stage including a few favourites from TV as well numerous activities for kids including free cooking classes to turn them all into mini masterchefs. www.nwfoodloversfestival.co.uk

Sat 17 Oct

Sat 24 & Sun 25 Oct

The Manchester Cathedral Be A Chorister for a day 2.15 – 5.30pm / Age 8 – 11 (must be accompanied) / Free, book in advance. Find out what singing in the Cathedral Choir is all about. The visit to the Cathedral will be combined with a visit to Chetham’s School of Music. 0161 838 2220 x 238 / www.manchestercathedral.org The People’s History Museum, Manchester The Little People’s History Museum – Mr Ordinary’s Prize 11am – 12pm / Under 5s / Suggested donation £3 (booking advised). Discover the story of Manchester’s Coat of Arms. Someone has stolen Mr Ordinary’s Thinking and Doing! What will he do without them? Join in the adventure as Mr Ordinary and his friends try to get them back. Fun interactive story session with puppets, song, dance and a craft activity. www.phm.org.uk

Event City, Manchester Fitness & Fight Festival 2015 Kids obstacle course races, practical training seminars, test your athletic ability and possibly take part in a Guinness World Record attempt. www.fitnessandfightfestival.com

Sat 24 – Mon 26 Oct

Exhibition Centre Liverpool Toytopia All ages / £15 in advance / Under 3s free. A brand new magical family experience. All entertainment included in ticket price. Use code TOYTOPIA518 online for reduced advance ticket price of £15. www.toytopiaworld.com

Sat 24 – Sat 31 Oct

Tatton Park, Knutsford Hallowe’en Hauntings at the Old Hall 12 – 5pm / Normal entry charges apply. Solve the Horrible History Mystery and Quiz. Storytelling. Face Painting and Mask Making. 01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 19

What’s on Sat 24 Oct – Sun 1 Nov

Lyme Park, Disley Fright Fest - Crow Wood Spooky Trail 11am – 3pm / All ages / Free (normal admission applies) Seek out spooky crows and creepy crawlies this Halloween, on a self guided trail around Crow Wood. 01663 762023 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme-park Tatton Park, Knutsford Farm Conker Championship Normal entry charges apply – see website for timings. For novices and seasoned players! Ghosts in the Garden Go ghosthunting in the Gardens this half term but be prepared to be (slightly!) scared as you track them down. Solve the Mansion Mystery Week Don your deerstalker, pick up your magnifying glass and solve the case of the missing Mansion treasure! 01625 374400 / 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@familiesmanchester.co.uk

The Lowry Salford Half Term Little Actors 11am – 12.30pm / Age 5 – 11 / £3.50. An action packed, fun-filled drama workshop that explores the world of The Scarecrows’ Wedding and helps Harry to become a hero. Half Term Little Artists 11am – 12.30pm / Age 5 – 11 / £3.50. Create characters out of recycled materials. An up-cycling workshop that’s loads of fun and interactive for the whole family. Junk provided! 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Tues 27 Oct

John Rylands Library, Manchester Gothic fun day 1 – 4pm. An afternoon of gothic arts and crafts activities for the whole family inspired by some of the fantastic items on show. 0161 306 0555 / www.manchester.ac.uk

Bury Transport Museum Craft activities 11am – 3pm / £1 + standard admission. Fun and frightening Halloween themed craft activities. Make a ghost or a vampire and get into the Halloween spirit! If you dare that is... 0161 764 7790 / www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk Salford Museum and Art Gallery Paper Cup Witches and Wizards 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm & 2.30pm. Make your own spooky person! www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk Ordsall Hall, Salford The Spook-tackular Party! 6 – 7.30pm / All ages / £5, booking essential. Lots of Halloween themed fun and games. Are you brave enough to visit the Hall and see what Halloween has in store? www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Wed 28 & Thurs 29 Oct

Stockley Farm, Northwich Halloween Spooktacular!! Off peak prices apply, book online 12hrs in advance for a 10% discount. All things spooky including the Witch’s House, carve a pumpkin, treak or treat trail, face painting as well as all the normal activities. 01565 777323 / www.stockleyfarm.co.uk

Hallé St Peters, Manchester Elmer the Elephant 10am, 11.30am and 1.15pm / Age 3 – 7 / Adult £6, Child (under 17) £4. A perfect 40 minute introduction to instruments of the orchestra. 0161 907 9000 / www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

Silver Blades, Altrincham The Professionals on Ice Glitz and glamour on ice with the skating professionals from ITV’s Dancing On Ice. www.silver-blades.co.uk

Tues 27 & Wed 28 Oct

Sat 24 & 31 Oct

The Lowry, Salford Lookout, it’s Saturday Playhouse 11am / Free. A weekly art activity for children and their families 24 Oct: Looking at Lowry – Make a pop- up picture inspired by Lowry’s work. 31 Oct: Frightful Faces! – Design and make your own Spooky mask. 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Sat 24 Oct – Mon 2 Nov

The People’s History Museum, Manchester Animal madness craft table 10am – 5pm / All Ages / Suggested donation £3 Create your own animal mask! Will you be a fat cat, bull or bear? www.phm.org.uk

Sun 25 – Thurs 29 Oct

Ordsall Hall, Salford Spooky Quiz 10am – 4pm (from 1pm on Sunday) / All ages / £1 per quiz. Have a go at our ‘spooktacular’ quiz and get a small prize at the end! Leaf Collage 10am – 4pm (from 1pm on Sunday) / All ages / Free Create a wonderful autumn themed collage at our making table. www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Mon 26 – Fri 30 Oct

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Autumn Spooktacular 12 – 4pm / Normal admission applies. Create your own ghost or ghoul in our hands on activity for children and follow the spooky trail through the Mill (50p). 01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank

Dunham Massey, Altrincham Spooky Stories 12 – 4pm / Free (normal admission applies). Join storyteller Helen Stewart in the dairy for spooky halloween tales for all the family. 0161 941 1025 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunham-massey

Wed 28 & Fri 30 Oct

Lyme Park, Disley Fright Fest- Jumping Jack-o’-lanterns Carve a lantern in the Timber Yard to scare the ghosts away. Age 6+ / £4 per child (booking essential) / Normal admission applies. Why not come along and carve out a pumpkin with us? Will you create a scary face or a haunted house to scare your ghosts away? 01663 762023 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme-park

Z-arts, Hulme We’re Stuck 10am and 11.45am – 1 hour session / Age 7 – 11 + grownups / Free, but limited places – booking advised. Ever got terribly stuck on a problem? Ever made a stupid mistake and felt like a fool? Brilliant! We need you! Our award winning team are working to create a brand new interactive workshop inspired by how amazing and utterly rubbish our brains are at maths. Part of the Manchester Science Festival. 0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org

Tues 27 Oct – Sun 1 Nov

Wed 28 – Sat 31 Oct

Tues 27 – Thurs 29 Oct

Salford Museum and Art Gallery Make and Do - WW1 Medals 10am – 4.45pm (12 – 4pm on Sat & Sun) / All ages / Free Have a go at making your own WW1 medal. Half Term Halloween Hunt 10am – 4.45pm (12 – 4pm on Sat & Sun) / All ages / £1 Complete the spooky quiz and get a small prize! www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Wed 28 Oct

The People’s History Museum, Manchester Break the Vault! With artist Pui Lee 1 – 3pm / Age 5+ / Suggested donation £3 (booking essential ). Create your own bank vault safe! Why not include a drawing of something valuable to you to be put inside? www.phm.org.uk The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Be Hear Now: Double Strings Concert for all ages Concert 11am, Workshop 12pm / £3 concert only, £5 workshop & concert. A relaxed concert performance for all ages followed by two parallel workshops for ages 0-11 and 12-19 - musical discovery sessions for young people with special educational needs and their families. 0161 907 9000 / www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

20 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

The Wellbeing Farm, Bolton Halloween Experience 2pm – 4.30pm / Al ages / £14 per child (including Halloween refreshments). Family friendly fun. Your child will carve a pumpkin, join in and make a crafty Halloween item, take part in apple bobbing, cup cake decorating and other fun Halloween activities as well as meet the llamas. Fancy dress is more than welcome! 01204 852113 / www.thewellbeingfarm.co.uk

Thurs 29 Oct

Dunham Massey, Altrincham Make a Bird Feeder 12 – 4pm / Free (normal admission applies). Encourage birds to your garden over autumn and winter by making your own bird buffet with pine cones, seeds, and some wriggly worms! 0161 941 1025 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunham-massey Ordsall Hall, Salford Halloween Handprints 10.30am, 11.30am & 1.30pm / All ages / £1.50 Get messy, make some fun painty handprints and then turn them into spooky characters! www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Touchstones, Rochdale Medieval Spook-tastic Family Fun Day 11am – 2pm / Age 5 – 12 / Free, drop in. A day of fiendish Halloween crafts on a medieval theme. Sign up on the day for a 40 minute guided tour for families to the soon to be revealed medieval bridge in the town centre. Tours at 11.30am, 12.30pm or 1.30pm. The Big Draw – Giant Drawing 11am – 2pm Age 3 – 12 / Free, drop-in Spooky Shake, Rattle & Roll 11am – 12pm (regular session), 12.30 – 1pm (taster session) & 1 – 1.30pm (taster session) / Under 4s / Free A fun music making session. 01706 924492 / www.link4life.org/touchstones Dukes Drive, Salford Tangled 11am – 3pm / All ages (children must be accompanied) / Free. Have fun getting tangled in the wonderful webbed woodland and join in with other spidery delights. Tickle your fingers making a giant Spider, weave your own web and explore Duke’s Drive on the Very Busy Spider trail. www.salford.gov.uk

Thurs 29 – Sat 31 Oct

East Lancashire Railway, Bury Halloween Ghost Trains Adult £13.50, Child (3-15) £5, Under 3s Free, Advance booking essential. Take a thrilling steam train ride to Rawtenstall and (hopefully) back. Meet hilarious haunters, giggling ghosts and ghouls and make like a mad scientist at Bury Transport Museum’s Creepy Craft Workshop. Bury Transport Museum Creepy Craft Workshops 4 – 8pm / £1 + standard admission. Join in with some creepy craft activities, make a ghost or a spider and take it onboard the Ghost Trains to join in with some frightening fun! 0161 764 7790 / www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Fri 30 Oct

Clifton Country Park, Salford Halloween Tiny Tots Walk 10am – 12pm / All ages / Free. A ramble around Clifton Country Park suitable for families with young witches, wizards and ghosts. 0161 793 4219 / www.salford.gov.uk

Sat 31 Oct

Wacky Woods, Adlington Halloween Scavenger Hunts 10am – 12pm and 2 – 4pm / Adult £3, Child £12 Wear your spookiest outfit to follow the clues around the wood, solve the spooky clues and collect goodies on the way, ending up around the campfire toasting marshmallows, eating cake and drinking hot chocolate! 01625 573 086 / www.wackywoods.co.uk

Sat 31 Oct & Sun 1 Nov

Lyme Park, Disley Fright Fest - Terrfiying Tales in the Cage 3 sessions of 45 mins each day / Age 4 – 12 / £2 (booking essential). Get your knees knocking and spine tingling with Terrifying Tales in the Cage, told by a professional storyteller. 01663 762023 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme-park

Sun 1 Nov

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Science of Sound 12 – 4pm / All ages / Normal admission applies. Make some waves in a world of noise! Experience the sounds of Quarry Bank past and present and discover the science of sound. Activities and workshops throughout the day. Part of the Manchester Science Festival. 01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank