Families Manchester Issue 63 - May/June 2017

Edition 63 • May/June 2017

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

MANCHESTER

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In this issue: > The A-Z of party buzzwords > Budding little gardeners > Zzzzzz...the importance of sleep

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

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News In this issue 02: News 04: Education 05: Parties 06: Clubs, classes & holiday camps 08: Parents’ place 12: What’s on

Kids Go Free at the Great 3-in-1 Spring Show this May Bank Holiday weekend!

Hello! So, “Da Spring is sprung, da grass is riz” and suddenly the world is a brighter and lovelier place. As usual, the first half of the year is flying by and before we know it, some of our babies will be finishing Primary school or heading off to University. But it’s not all doom and gloom – we can finally start breaking out the flip flops, breathing in the fresh air and thinking about new beginnings. There are so many fabulous outdoor events coming up across the region area in May and June: find all the details in our News section alongside, and also in What’s on, starting on page 12. So get into the grip of Spring Fever, and enjoy! Caryl Hall

Jayne Keep

Next issue: July/August 2017

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. Contact details: Families Manchester, 3 Hall Hill, Bollington SK10 5ED Tel: 01625 801 801 www.familiesonline.co.uk Editorial: editor@familiesmanchester.co.uk Advertising/artwork: advertising@familiesmanchester.co.uk Events, diary dates, what’s on: events@familiesmanchester.co.uk Cover Photography: Istock Editorial Contributor: Georgina Rodgers: Georgina is a journalist and author of Peace of Mind: A Book Of Calm for Busy Mums, available now. Design: Paul Wilson Graphic Design, Congleton. Tel: 07743 111 694 www.withpaul.co.uk

Families Manchester 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 Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Manchester are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. 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.

Running from Saturday 27 to Monday 29 May 2017 at the Royal Cheshire County Showground (adjacent to Junction 19 on M6), the show features The Great British Outdoors Show (packed full of family fun, demonstrations and activities), FoodFest North West (bringing you a wide variety of food vendors plus activities & tastings) and Charity Fest North West, a rock and soul music festival fundraising for 3 great charities (Cancer Research UK, British Kidney Patients Association and Help Musicians). An added bonus element is Sky Fest – a celebration of flight featuring a spectacular giant kite display (including the famous Peter Powell Stunt Kite family who will also give kite workshops) and a Birds-of-Prey display which will take place in a central arena. So you can celebrate an outdoor lifestyle including gardening and outdoor hobbies and crafts and then munch your way around the World Street Food Court

Great British Dog Walk at Lyme Park

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Change of date for Art On The Run This fabulous new woodland experience, originally scheduled for 1 April, is now taking place on Sunday 21 May in Livia Forest, Drinkwater Park, Prestwich. It’s a ridiculous race like no other – a 5k dash through a beautiful Forestry Commission managed landscape encountering surprising and fantastical large-scale art installations. Tickets cost £20 for adults and £10 for children (aged 4 – 16). Advance purchase is essential – see www.artontherun.org.uk

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with freshly prepared Italian pizza, Malaysian rending & satay, Mediterranean mezze, Spanish paella, USA hot-dogs, Mexican burritos & tacos, Indian curries and even English Hog Roast and healthy wraps washed down by Real Ale, Prosecco or Pimms – the perfect accompaniment to an exciting music programme! Music acts include USA Mississippi Soul Man, Stars of Britain’s Got Talent, The X Factor and The Voice plus Dougie James Soul Train, George Borowski, The Clik, The Fabulous Wonderfuls, Tony Auton Band, the World’s No 1 Lionel Ritchie Tribute - Hamilton Browne, rising Soul sensation Babalola, Northern Soul star Johnny Pryers, brilliant solo acts Rebecca Whitehead and January Butler, electro-loopers Sound of Thieves, Motown crowd-pleasers Soulvation, Johnny Sax, Cancer Fundraisers Loose Change, Clare & Jennings plus more still to be announced! Daily admission is just £10 per day (Saturday & Sunday) and £5 Monday or £20 for a 3 day ticket (saving a fiver). Or make it a Family Weekend mini-break with a camping ticket for just £70 – Mum, Dad & 2 kids (free) in their own tent. But if you buy your tickets before 15 May, you can save an EXTRA £5 (total £10 saving) on a weekend ticket – just quote FAM1 at the checkout. Tickets are on sale now from www.TheGreatSpringShow.com

Sign up to take part in this year’s Great British Dog Walk at Lyme Park on Saturday 13 May – and help raise funds to ensure more hearing dogs can be trained to bring life-transforming benefits to deaf children and adults. There will be two different routes to choose from, so it’s an ideal event for dog-lovers, families, couples, independent walkers and organised walking groups. Refreshments and entertainment will be on offer and you can also bring a picnic to enjoy after the walk. There’s also a free special limited-edition

Great British Dog Walk doggie bandana and the opportunity to be entered into a prize draw to win a luxury Forest Holidays getaway with every event booking. Hearing dogs transform their recipient’s lives by providing a special kind of independence, confidence and inclusion whether at home or out and about. They alert their owners to important sounds that hearing people often take for granted such as the doorbell, alarm clock and smoke alarm. Unlike a hearing ‘gadget’ a hearing dog also provides a warmth of companionship that can boost a recipient’s confidence enough to face the outside world and increase social and professional interaction thereby significantly improving health and wellbeing. To sign-up, visit www.greatbritishdogwalk.org. Tickets cost £10 in advance and £12 on the day. Under 16s go free.

News Get OnBoard this summer

Are you looking for an activity for your children where they can learn new skills, make friends and have fun in the fresh air? This summer, get your youngsters active by introducing them to sailing

and windsurfing through the Royal Yachting Association’s OnBoard. They’ll learn an exciting new sport in a safe environment, get out on the water and gain valuable life skills from problem solving to taking responsibility. Once they get started in sailing the opportunities are endless. Everything you need is provided by the instructor. It’s affordable, fun and you don’t need to have done it before. Anyone aged 8-18 can take part in OnBoard sessions and with over 245 RYA approved venues across the country there’s bound to be one near you. You might even find you want to join in too! To find your nearest OnBoard activity visit www.rya.org.uk/onboard

Prepare to be Amazed by Science this May half-term! Join in the fun at the Cheshire-wide science festival with a week full of science shows for all the family! Celebrate with a week full of science shows for all the family at lots of different attractions, from Chester Zoo to Jodrell Bank. Experiment with Ludicrous Liquids, learn the science behind making cheese, become a Mad Scientist, then discover the difference between science and magic! Find out more at amazedbyscience.com

Families needed! Scientists and pollinators want your help…

Imagine living in a desert with barely any food, hardly any water or any place to shelter. Unfortunately, this is exactly what it is like for the pollinating insects currently living in Britain. Loss of habitat, pesticides, and farming practices have left these insects hungry and homeless, suffering from a lack of feeding, nesting and shelter habitat. Which is why the Polli:Nation project needs your help. Now in its second year, the Polli:Nation survey is looking for families across the UK to take part in aiding research on the health and status of pollinating insects across the UK.

The survey can be completed in under an hour in outdoor spaces such as gardens, school grounds, or local parks, and uploading your findings will contribute to important scientific research. The survey will also help you to consider whether your area is a good environment for bees and other pollinators. It offers guidance on how you can create simple feeding and nesting habitats such as a pot of wildflowers, or nesting and shelter habitats like a bee hotel, as well as other cheap and easy ways you can improve your outdoor space for pollinators. So get out there now, become a citizen scientist and help the pollinators in your community. Free survey resources can be downloaded at www.opalexplorenature.org/ polli-nation and results can be submitted either online or by post. The Polli:Nation project has been developed by OPAL Imperial College London, Learning Through Landscapes, The Field Studies Council, Buglife, Butterfly Conservation, Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Centre for Ecology and Hydrology).

GoFest North 2017

Childline launches new app to offer counselling for kids

The NSPCC’s Childline service has just launched a new iPhone app to provide counselling for kids directly through their mobile phones. The ‘For Me’ app allows kids to access Childline’s online services, including 1-2-1 live chats with a counsellor, the

‘Ask Sam’ problem pages and entrance to their private ‘lockers’ – areas where they can write down their own personal thoughts and track their moods. It was invented by four teenagers who wanted to use technology to address the urgent need for support among young people. Childline founder Esther Rantzen said: “We know hundreds of thousands of young people use our website for help and support, with more than half those visits coming via mobile devices. Now young people can get immediate access to our counsellors through this brilliant, innovative app.” The App is free to download via iTunes and is designed for discreet usage. Read more at www.childline.org.uk

GoFest is the UK’s Family Festival of sports, dance, health and fitness and is coming to Manchester on 24-25 June at some of the amazing facilities at Sportcity, including Manchester Regional Athletics Arena, Tennis & Football Centre and the pool at East Manchester Leisure Centre. It’s a fantastic opportunity for all abilities and ages to receive some top-quality family friendly coaching in small groups from clubs like Sale Sharks, England Netball, Manchester Giants Basketball, Salford Red Devils and Lancashire County Cricket Club and many others. Bring your family and friends along to ‘have a go’ at a huge variety of sports, dance classes and healthy activities and to have a ton of fun together!

What’s on at GoFest (all included in your ticket price): • 40+ Sports & Activities to “Have a Go” at! • Free Family Friendly Coaching from professionals, National Governing Bodies and local sports clubs • Numerous Dance and Fitness Classes • Main Stage Entertainment • Runs, Races and Relays • Exhibition and Retail - more things to try! • Chill out areas with free massage • Giant Screens with live Sports coverage and Entertainment • Food and drink outlets including Bars! • Celebrity Ambassadors For more information and to buy tickets visit www.gofest.co.uk

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Education

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Parties

The A-Z of party buzz words A B

is for Animals. Most children are intrigued by them and enjoy opportunities to get close. is for Baking. Parties are available for children from age 4 and kids of all ages will enjoy licking out the bowls! Most parties take place in your own home or anywhere with a kitchen, but you don’t have to do the clearing up! Great for small groups. is for Ceramics. An ideal choice for arty children, who can decorate pottery animals, mugs, egg cups and more, and have them fired and glazed on-site. is for Dance. Book a dance party! Choose between ballet, street dance, latin and more, depending on your child’s taste. Alternatively, opt for a dance-themed party which might include dancing games, action songs, and dance ribbons. is for Entertainer. Some specialise in magic or dance, others provide all round entertainment tailored to a particular theme, some provide a “special appearance” by a television character and others still focus on party games. is for Face Painting. A great choice for the younger age group, with truly talented painters and good value for money!

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is for Golf. Enjoyable and exciting indoor golfing parties include stimulating games that use a range of large, colourful targets, child-friendly equipment and safe foam balls. is for HAPPY BIRTHDAY! is for Inflatables. There is nothing that is more guaranteed to get a young child smiling than the sight of a bouncy slide and castle at a birthday party! Find a suitable venue to house these inflatables and hire them in! is for Jeeps. Jeep driving parties are still fairly unique, considering that you can hold them indoors or outdoors, on a tennis court or in a church hall. An inflatable track and jeeps are provided. Jeep parties are fantastic entertainment for children aged 4 to 8 and generally cater for a maximum of 8. is for Karts. Go Kart Parties are a whole lot of fun and suit kids from age 4 to 14. They can be held on almost any surface, so leisure centres, local halls, sports fields or playgrounds are all feasible. Parties generally build to a big, final race at end the day. is for Leisure Centres. Many leisure centres provide great sport, soft play, trampoline or gymnastics parties.

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is for Music. Often with similar features to the classes they derive from, music parties are generally suitable for the 0-5 age group who love the mix of music, dance and musical instruments. is for Nature. For kids who like the great outdoors, head to an outdoor venue. Many provide engaging games and activities as well as a venue for birthday tea. is for One Stop Shop. Reduce party stress with a party provider that offers a venue, entertainment and food. Remember to check this out when you are doing your research! is for Ponies. Many children love ponies, so imagine how special a party at a riding stables would be! Children can learn to groom the horses, go on a ride in a nearby park and learn some riding techniques. is for Quality. Remember that the most expensive parties are not necessarily the best quality! is for Rugby. These parties often follow a similar format to football parties, and include lots of running around, rugby-related activities, and fun for girls and boys from age 2 upwards. is for Soft Play. These venues can be hired inclusive of toys, inflatables and ball pits and are a very popular choice for kids of all ages, as most either cater for under 5’s or have a separate area for young children.

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is for Traditional. Remember you can keep it simple. Young children are more than happy with party games, a birthday tea and cake. If you want, you can hire someone experienced to plan and execute the games! is also for Themed. Many party providers these days will plan your child’s party around a particular theme, either one from a selection they offer, or one chosen by you. Popular themes include princesses, super heroes, pirates and mermaids, dinosaurs and jungles! is for Umbrella. Essential for outdoor parties, even in Summer! is for Weather. Remember not to rely on it! is for eXtraordinary! Don’t worry, your child’s birthday party will always be eXtraordinary, just like your child! is for Yoga. Want your kids to have a zen experience? Yoga parties often provide a combination of yoga and other forms of party entertainment. is for Zumba. You don’t have to be a teenager or an adult to enjoy this latin-influenced dance/exercise sensation. Try a Zumba children’s party!

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Clubs, classes & holiday camps British summer camps for kids

A long-established tradition in the USA, summer camps are now readily available across the UK for all ages. British parents have found that packing their youngsters off for a few days or weeks of stimulation and entertainment is the perfect answer to the annual conundrum: “what will the kids do with their long summer break?” For working parents, the concept is a godsend. The great news is that the children love it too. Although sport and adventure are heavily featured, not all camps cater to active mini-athletes. For the less boisterous, there are art and academic options, technology and performing arts. If your child loves dancing, motorbiking, film-making or computing, there is bound to be a camp to suit and build their skills, and they vary in length from one-off days to several residential weeks. Finding one that suits you A good place to research all the activities on offer, from archery to zorbing, is the British Activities Providers Association, which lists and gives accreditation to over 100 summer camps in the UK and Europe. Two well-known British providers are Outward Bound and the Youth Hostel Association. The Outward Bound Trust caters to 11-19 year olds in residential camps, and the YHA holds themed camps for 10-19 years with accommodation in their own hostels. Younger children are accepted by xkeys.co.uk from 6 years, and at ATE from 8 years. Fun might include scuba diving, football or quad biking. The so-called “Bear Grylls effect” has led to a lot of kids (and their parents) enjoying the idea of learning survival skills and coping with the great outdoors. Over-10s can bivouac under the stars in the Lake District, and coasteering, bush tracking, den-building and bonfires are all popular. If your 9 – 15 year old is an adrenalin junkie, they will relish the cliff jumping and sea swimming at the Isle of Man Venture Centre.

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Day camps are great too Not all kids are comfortable with the prospect of being away from home and this is where day camps are ideal. Super Camps (ages 4 – 14) offer multi-activity programmes, and Fire Tech (for ages 9 – 14) covers subjects such as video game development and mobile app design. Learning a new language is also a popular camp choice, and some parents elect to fly their children overseas to brush up on their French, German or Spanish. It’s even possible to go to Shanghai or Beijing and learn mandarin. Many local high schools also host camps during the summer break, as do local theatre and dance schools. Of course, hanging from zip wires, pushing the boundaries of courage and competence and trying new things will always be top reasons to consider a summer camp, and companies like PGL, like to combine activities for their teens and tweens. Creativity and adventure can go hand-in-hand on their seven day courses with mornings spent fencing and evenings doing photography. Cost is obviously a consideration for most families, especially when they have more than one child to pay for. Many companies offer Childcare Vouchers and in addition, they give discounts for multiple or early bookings. Some even offer scholarships or reduced rates for special circumstances. The benefit of going off to camp for the average child is the phenomenal boost to their self-esteem and independence. It can be a little daunting for parents to let them go off on their own, knowing they will not be there to soothe and reassure should anything go wrong. However, this is just the character-building part of the experience which allows children to flourish and find their own confidence. Most camps will team younger children with an older “mentor” who will keep a special eye on them, and provide that all-important cuddle if necessary. Tempting though it may be to call and check on them all the time, it really is better to restrict contact, and encourage your child to have a positive attitude to being away. If considering a summer camp, involve your child in the selection process, so that they know what to expect, and have input into the choice. You can tailor this process to support your child’s personality, for example, a shy child may be happier in a smaller group. Ultimately, with the right preparation, a summer camp is the ideal way for your child to spend their time during that long summer holiday. Spend some time selecting, look at each camp’s suitability, and be excited for your child for one of the most life-enriching experiences out there. For more information about clubs and classes visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk

Clubs, classes & holiday camps Save this Summer with Super Camps Super Camps’ fabulous new Multi-Activity programme at William Hulme’s Grammar School in Manchester allows children to get involved in some great activities. As well as taking part in the fun-packed programme, children are cared for by fully qualified and vetted staff to create a thoroughly

enjoyable time on camp. As Ofsted noted, Super Camps runs “an excellent programme of well-planned, fun and exciting activities that contributes highly to the children’s play and learning environment”. Camps run from Monday 25 July – Friday 25 August, and you can save 15% with code FAMILIES17. www.supercamps.co.uk

A show in a week! Bored over the holidays? Like acting, dancing or singing? Then why not be part of a Showtime Summer School and put on a show in a week! Bugsy is the choice of Stage Squad Youth in Stockport (Monday 31 July – Friday 4 August), and Alice in Wonderland will be presented by Palms

School of Dance in Culcheth (Monday 21 – Friday 25 August). So if you’re aged 6 – 16, make sure you book your place today, as places are limited. £65 for the week (concessions for siblings), 10am – 3pm daily. www.stagesquad.co.uk / www.palmsschoolofdance.co.uk

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, Oldham and Gee Cross, Hyde) or 01257 262622 ((Bolton, Bury, Radcliffe, Wigan, Leigh, Rochdale, Oldham, Billington, Clitheroe, Chorley, Swinton and Worsley). www.puddleducks.com

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Parents’ place How to get the kids outside gardening encourage butterflies and bees in the summer. Maybe think about building a pond to encourage frogs, dragonflies and water boatmen, and let your children learn about the life cycle as they turn from frogspawn to tadpoles to baby frogs. Encourage them to learn about and identify the different creatures and how to attract them to your garden and help them to make new habitats and learn where animals live, from bug barns to hedgehog houses. Great fun!

Gardening can be a great way to get your kids playing outside, learning about nature and engaging with the environment. From the smallest seed in a pot to growing huge sunflowers in the garden, your children will love getting their hands dirty and watching their garden grow. While we may not have the best weather here in the UK, it’s so important for kids to experience the natural world, get some vitamin D and learn some great lessons through gardening. So how do you get them outside? We’ve put together a few creative ways that you can encourage your children to start gardening. Do a treasure hunt! Every child loves hunting for treasure, and what better way to get them outside than to go on a nature hunt? You’d be surprised how many different species are in your garden - dandelions, vegetables, woodlice, earthworms. See who can find the most different animals and plants. If they don’t know what it is, help them to find out on the internet. This is something you can keep up throughout the year, encouraging them to observe the changing seasons and what plants grow at different times. Ask them what plants and animals they would like to see in their garden and start growing these/ encouraging wildlife together. Encourage your kids to take their favourite toys outside... ...and build miniature worlds for them. Help them create a race course with

ramps for toy cars, a jungle for their favourite animals to hide in or a fairy-tale wood for their princess dolls. Encourage them to think about what their little world looks like, and start to name the plants with them while they play. Grow your own dinner! There’s nothing better than eating peas straight out of the pod or picking your first strawberry, and all of these can be grown in your own garden. If you’re not hugely confident with gardening, cress is the best place to start, and you can grow it on your window sill. It’s a great way for children to learn about how plants grow, watching seeds turn into tasty snacks. It can encourage your children to try new foods, after all – they grew it themselves, and it can add to their important 5-a-day! It’s a great way for children to learn about the food they eat and where it comes from, and standing in the mud with a big spade is a million miles away from the supermarket, and far more fun. Some great fruits and vegetables to grow with your little ones are carrots, tomatoes, strawberries, courgettes, salad leaves, herbs, peas and potatoes. Grandparents are great at this kind of knowledge: why not organise a trip to a garden centre with them to choose seeds and plants?

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Keep an eye on the time of year and encourage your kids to read up on their plants, water them when needed, and take care of them. Don’t worry if it doesn’t go to plan and you only get one tomato – it’s a learning process, and your kids can think about why it might not have grown and what to try next time. Create a wildlife garden Kids love animals, bugs and creepy crawlies, and a wildlife garden can be a great way to get them outside and stuck into gardening. Plant flowers such as lavender, honeysuckle and verbena to

Fill your garden with colours, smells and textures Choose bright flowers like geraniums, pansies and sunflowers so your kids can enjoy making the garden more beautiful. Choose strong smelling plants like honeysuckle, or plants that make interesting noises, like bamboo rustling in the breeze. Encourage your kids to make their garden their own, and if they love it, let them loose at Grandma’s too! Get messy! There’s something so satisfying about getting all muddy: kids can’t resist it. Gardening doesn’t have to be about neat rows of flowers. Let your kids dig until their hearts are content. If they can’t get enough of mess, try making bird cakes to hang from the trees, and let them watch as quietly as possible as birds come to feed. Or how about a bird feeder made out of Cheerios and pipe cleaners? Encourage your kids to get crafty in the garden, making everything from bottle top wind chimes to lolly ice stick plant markers, so they know which plant is which. For more awesome activity ideas with the kids visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk/activities

Parents’ place The importance of sleep for children As adults, we are more than aware of how important a good night’s sleep is – we need it for balance, mood stability and to enhance brain function. And anyone who has children will concur that getting a full night’s sleep is essential to combat temper tantrums and tiredness, which can be traumatic for toddlers. Experts from the NHS think that as much as we should prioritise healthy eating and exercise, we should also be ensuring children get around nine hours of solid slumber nightly, to improve their learning. Particularly when they are young and acquiring knowledge on everything as they begin to shape and understand the world around them, children need a requisite amount of sleep to boost retaining information and help embed knowledge from throughout the day. Ultimately, our brains need rest overnight to allow us to absorb information better, and this is even more important for young minds. So how much sleep should they be getting? The NHS’ guidelines for optimum sleep time for different age groups have been collected by the Millpond Children’s Sleep Clinic. These are: Between the ages of 4 and 16, children should be sleeping through the night for 11 hours, which gradually goes down to about 9 at 14, with 15-minute decrements over the time space.

Why is sleep so important? We only need to look at some of the poor decisions or small mistakes we have made ourselves when we are tired, and we can begin to understand the importance of sleep. How many times have you started something which you then struggled to finish, simply because of the impact tiredness has on judgement and motivation? When coupled with the vital rest time for busy, sponge-like brains, getting adequate sleep makes a lot of sense. Whether it’s through using sleep aids or planning a meticulous routine, there are several ways to ensure your children are reaching the requisite sleep hours for their age group. So, how can you encourage them to sleep? Essentially, fostering a good sleeping habit is much easier with young children than teenagers, who know how to fight back!

Laying the right foundations when they are young, and encouraging them to see sleep as a part of healthy living should make maintaining it, even when they have discovered the joys of socialising, much more straightforward. Routine, routine, routine Whilst they try to convince themselves and their parents otherwise, children thrive on routine, and our brains learn when to start shutting down and getting the all-important rest they need. Trying as best you can to instil a routine of preparing for and going to bed at the same time every night will help your child, no matter what age they are. This includes brushing teeth and getting pyjamas on at a certain time, which starts to surreptitiously prepare the brain for sleepy time. Getting them settled into a

We love Lottie Dolls!

Launched in 2012, Lottie Dolls are themed, relatable dolls aimed at children aged 3–10 years. Lottie has been designed to mirror the average proportions of a nine year old girl. She is available in a several different aspirational dolls, including Stargazer Lottie, School Days Lottie, Fossil Hunter Lottie and Forest Friend Lottie, and she has been incredibly popular since her launch five years ago.

Lottie is 18cm tall and with the various themed outfits available offers children a lovely alternative to existing dolls on the market – she doesn’t wear makeup, jewellery or high heels and she can stand on her own two feet. Lottie aims to be fun and feisty and she does all the things a child would do - from horse riding and ballet, to footballing and fossil hunting. Designed to encourage both role-play and imaginative play, Lottie loves exploring the outdoors and is

routine means preparing the brain for its rest period. Limit the technology For many people, the evening routine relies on technology. Be it smartphones, tablets or television, we all, including our children, use devices to unwind with at night. However, these bits of tech are actually stimuli, which make the going to bed routine harder to implement. After dinner, try enjoying some conversation or a board game to encourage them to chat about their day and also allow the brain some all-important decompression time. Where possible, discourage them from having TV or gadgets in the bedroom at all, as these can be used as a distraction. In fact, making sure that the bedroom is most closely associated with sleep is a better way to negotiate this obstacle – which means keeping it tidy and clutter-free. The importance of light Whether it’s through blackout curtains or nightlights, achieving the correct balance of light in your child’s room is key to ensuring consistency in their sleep pattern. Invest in some heavy duty curtains so that whether winter or summer, their room is dark, and use a little nightlight for a subtle glow that helps orientate them if they do wake up in the night.

Giddy Goat Toys is exclusively offering Families Magazine readers a fabulous offer this Spring and Summer – you can get 15% off purchases of Lottie Dolls and accessories at www.giddygoattoys.co.uk until the 31 August 2017 with the discount code ‘Lottie’ or show this article next time you shop at Giddy Goat Toys in Didsbury to get your 15% off Lottie Dolls. (one use per customer)

always ready for an adventure – just like any child! Lottie has had an incredibly positive reception in Giddy Goat Toys’ Didsbury shop; everyone loves her! Starting from £18.99, with accessories from £9.50, Lottie is collectable, affordable and a realistic role model for adventurous children everywhere.

WIN a Stargazer Lottie Doll! Giddy Goat Toys has also teamed up with local family blogger HodgePodgeDays to offer you the chance to win a Stargazer Lottie Doll worth £21.99. To enter visit http://hodgepodgedays.co.uk/ giveaways/stargazer-lottie-doll/. The giveaway ends Wednesday 31 May 2017. Good luck!

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Parents’ place Summer Book selection from Ed’s Reading Room

Here are Ed’s latest reviews for some great summer reads. You can download the specially written reading activities for these books and buy the books online at www.EdontheWeb.com. Ages 5 – 7 years

Ages 7+

Cowboy Pug: The Dog Who Rode for Glory by Laura James (Bloomsbury £5.99) Pug and Lady Miranda are saddled up ready for an exciting adventure. There are plenty of fun things in store for them like the county fair and candyfloss but they also have to deal with the runaway train, a water jump and even bandits. When Lady Miranda gets into trouble will she be able to smooth things over with the police officer and will Pug be able to earn his spurs? This is part of a super new series with very funny illustrations. It is a great story for newly confident readers, boys and girls alike.

Jinks & O’Hare: Funfair Repair by Philip Reeve and Sarah McIntyre (Oxford £8.99) Jinks and O’Hare are the repair team at Funfair Moon that boasts the highest helter-skelter and the scariest ghost train in the universe. Emily loves helping them and as her school, the Learny-Go-Round, is open only every other day she has plenty of time. But when the Funfair Inspector arrives everything seems to go wrong and chaos ensues. It seems someone is sabotaging the funfair. Will the whole fair spin out of control and be shut down? Or will Emily’s dream of becoming a funfair repairer come true? Here is another fantastic book from this wonderful writer and illustrator partnership. It is fast-moving, funny and entertaining – a rollercoaster of a story.

Evie’s Magic Bracelet: The Silver Unicorn by Jessica Ennis-Hill (Hodder £5.99) Evie is settling into her new home. The day she starts her new school, she receives a gift from Grandma Iris in Jamaica – a beautiful bracelet with a message. ‘Have a magical time!’ Evie is amazed when she understands what the seagulls and the animals at the city farm are saying. She gradually realises this all started when she put on the bracelet from Grandma Iris. She hopes her magic ability will keep the sprites at bay during the children’s paper chase and she hopes to help the silver unicorn out of his trouble. This is a warm-hearted story with lovely illustrations. It is ideal for children reading on their own or reading together.

The Jamie Drake Equation by Christopher Edge (Nosy Crow £6.99) Imagine your father was an astronaut! It would be so exciting especially when he is orbiting the Earth in the International Space Station. Jamie’s dad is an astronaut and, although at first he thinks it’s really cool that his father will be doing a spacewalk, he is actually just missing him being at home. When parts of the family solar system start to shake, Jamie becomes very worried. And when Jamie picks up a strange signal on his mobile, things start to get really complicated. Can Jamie prove that he’s a hero too? This is a very exciting story that is brilliantly written. If you’ve ever wondered what’s out there with the stars, you will find this book a real page-turner.

For more amazing books for your kids, visit www.familiesonline.co.uk/bookclub

Free kids entertainment at Ego Bramhall By Jayne Keep

We thoroughly enjoyed our first visit to Ego and will most definitely be back. The 2-4pm Sunday slot comes highly recommended by us as this is when you will find the party crew in to entertain. It wasn’t a particularly busy time either so would be fab chance to get booked in for a get-together with other families to enjoy a gorgeous meal and a

Ego Restaurant in Bramhall is a beautiful 110 seat Mediterranean restaurant located on Bramhall Lane South, right in the heart of Bramhall village. Although you may not first think it, this stylish restaurant is perfect for family dining, and it’s recently been made even more perfect for families with the free kids’ entertainment on Sundays! We popped in for a late Sunday lunch to sample what’s on offer, and after a warm welcome, my youngest two (ages 8 and 6) scuttled off to the ‘Party Crew’ for arm painting and bookmark making. The food options were so varied, from the traditional Sunday roast dinner, through pizzas to their speciality which is

Mediterranean inspired dishes. Three of us opted for the roasts, my eldest a pizza, and my youngest cod goujons and chips, which didn’t take long to come, was beautifully presented and all were good sized portions. The children’s roast was a scaled back version of the adults but still artfully plated, and the cod goujons were handmade with lovely fresh fish, and also came with a large bright salad. The food was delicious. I wouldn’t instantly think of a Mediterranean restaurant for a traditional roast but that was the nicest I have had in a long time! More colouring and balloon play for the littlies followed, while we waited for dessert – again, these were a good size and looked and tasted amazing.

10 Families Manchester | www.familiesonline.co.uk

catch up, while the kids can keep themselves busy. Not only do Ego provide the kids entertainment, but several nights through the week there are different offers available, so definitely worth checking out if you have a night off from the kids too! To book a table call 0161 439 0693. www.egorestaurants.co.uk

Parents’ place Family holidays go 3G By Georgina Rodgers

Summer holidays used to be all about parents and kids together; a time to recharge and reconnect. However, three-generational holidays with grandparents, parents and children in tow are growing in popularity – with ‘3G’ the new buzzword in the travel industry. Holiday company Mark Warner reported a 12% rise in popularity in ‘3G getaways’ in the last five years, while a new poll by Owners Direct, a holiday rental company, says that 20% of us are regularly holidaying with our own parents and children together. Of course, there is much to rave about when it comes to 3G holidays: it’s a fab way to spend time together on neutral territory, without the daily distractions of work and school routines. A successful holiday with three generations of family together requires a destination to suit everyone’s needs, with plenty of places to explore, adventures on the doorstep and a healthy dose of comfort thrown into the mix. As a family we have had a number of 3G holidays, including a winter trip to the Alps to ski and many of my friends and colleagues have also done the same in recent years. Making the most of our last summer before we were tied down to school holidays, we took our own 3G break last year to The Point in Polzeath in Cornwall, with our parents and

two daughters, aged four and one. Located just 15 minutes walk from the scenic beach at Polzeath, we spent many sandy days watching the surfers, eating ice creams and building sandcastles. For any budding surfers, Polzeath is a brilliant place to learn, with many schools dotted along the seafront with wetsuit-clad types riding the waves from dawn until dusk. This beach is thought to be one of the safest places to learn to surf and the fine golden sand and shallow rock pools make it a child’s paradise. The Coastal Path (just 100 metres away) has breath-taking views of the scenery and follows the cliff top westwards to Daymer Bay andontoRock,wherethefootferrycrossesto Padstow. We took a day trip here and the children loved the ferry ride and a trip to the nearby Lobster Hatchery, whilst the adults enjoyed a picturesque walk along the harbour, which is dotted with galleries and cafes. We all happily tucked into fish and chips from Rick Stein’s famous family-friendly fish and chip shop. There are a vast number of picturesque walks along the North Cornwall coast, for for all ages to enjoy. We packed up the littlest member of the family into a back carrier and enjoyed a two-and-a-half-hour stroll from The Point to Lundy Bay, through some stunning countryside and along the South West coastal path and the beach itself. Our hosts also mentioned a walk to Port Isaac inland through St Minver and curving through farmland. However, at just over 13 miles, we felt this would be a big ask for the children. We have learnt through our various trips that it is always worth trying to not be too ambitious when it comes to outings and day trips to keep potential stress at bay! The key to getting 3G holidays right is the accommodation and self-catering is always a

great option because you can eat flexibly, with children eating earlier if necessary – we have often found that hotels do not start to serve food for children until 6pm and this is too late for our two. The Point features seven Scandinavian-style bespoke holiday homes, along with a range of older holiday rental properties. We stayed in the spacious and uber-comfortable Bailey which offers spacious open-plan living with floor to ceiling sliding doors leading onto private terraces, modern and light furniture and plenty of small touches with an attention to detail that is impressive! Built into the hill ridge, the homes are clad with Kebony, a sustainable alternative to hardwood, whilst inside there is stone flooring and woodburners built by local craftsmen. Unlike our 3G ski break, where the chalet was cramped, The Point had enough space for everyone to go off and do their own thing in privacy and I think this is a must-have for multi-generational breaks. If you have a four-legged family member along for the ride, three of the houses are dog-friendly. We have also found that holiday accommodation with activities on-site are great, so everyone can go off and do their own thing if they wish. The Point has its own 18-hole golf course and health club with a swimming pool, studio classes and a sauna and steam room. Our little ones went mad for the pool, which was perfect for rainy days, whilst I tried a couple of classes. There is also a small spa on-site offering massages, facials, manicures and pedicures for an indulgent treat. My four year old still talks all the time about our trip to the seaside – a sure sign that the holiday was a big success, with many magical memories banked to talk about for years to come. Tips for 3G holidays • Plan ahead: If you have children at school, you will need to plan well in advance to find a week that works for everyone. Organising a 3G holiday six to nine months in advance means that

everyone can lock it into their diaries and you will have a good choice of options. • Pick a place for all: Not all holiday destinations were created equal, so put extra time into planning and research so you choose somewhere that everyone will enjoy. Self-catering tends to be a more affordable alternative to hotel breaks, with the added bonus of being able to eat in or out, depending on what everyone wants to do. Try to choose somewhere that will have enough space for everyone to enjoy some privacy. • Set boundaries: Always keep the lines of communication clear and iron out any sticky issues before heading off. Just because the grandparents are in tow, doesn’t automatically make them babysitters. If you would like a night out, double-check with grandparents that they are happy to look after the little ones. • Plan your routine: It can be a challenge to get everyone up and out in time for something, so every evening, make sure you have a plan for the following day. Do not try to cram too much in – one activity or outing per day tends to be enough. • Make the most of group discounts: When it comes to days out and visits to attractions, always ask if you are eligible for any discounts or special offers. It never hurts to ask! • Be mindful of others: Think about everyone when choosing activities. Small children will need plenty of time to rest and will always get hungry at inconvenient times and older folk might also welcome some afternoon down-time! • Make memories: Most of all relax and enjoy your holiday together and enjoy trying new activities and spending time together. Your shared experiences will be stories you talk about for a long time afterwards!

A bite-sized approach to health & well being Headway LD in Manchester offers life coaching and mentoring for all ages. Their Resilient Kids Project aims to equip children with enough self-knowledge so that they can feel confident in taking on new tasks and challenges in school and at home. The project has been developed for family learning, which means there is more than one generation of a family included in the process, and consists of a series of seven sessions (1 hour and 10 minutes each) for parents and students. It’s an inclusive, fun and informal group exploration of key life skills – with elements of one to one coaching, enabling parents and students to cope better with life challenges. Key to this is strengthening the relationship connection and communication between parent and child as the foundations for sustained positive changes. Potential benefits on completing the programme include positive behaviour changes in students, improved concentration and willingness to engage in the learning process, an improved parent/student/school partnership as well as reducing the onset of low level anxiety and depression in children (and parents). To find out more: 0161 961 0024 / www.headwayld.co.uk

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What’s on

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

Mondays during May & June

Fri 5 May & Fri 2 June

Wednesdays in May & June (term time only)

Bramall Hall Bramall Dragon Club 10am – 12pm / Ages 2 – 5 / £7, booking essential An exciting developmental discovery session with stories, play and exploration, linked to Bramall Hall and Park. 0161 474 2399 / stockport.gov.uk/museums

Dunham Massey, Altrincham Special Guided Walk - Family Wildlife 11am – 1pm / All ages / Free, but limited availability and normal admission applies. Bring all the family to discover Dunham’s deer and other wildlife on an accessible walk around the park. 0161 941 1025 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunham-massey

Sat 6 May & Sat 3 June

Sat 6 & Sun 7 May

The Place at Platt Lane, Fallowfield Childrens Craft Club 4.30 – 5.30pm / Ages 5 – 11 (under 8s accompanied). Each session facilitated by an experienced youth worker. 0161 227 1283 / www.theplaceonline.co.uk

Ordsall Hall, Salford Baby & toddler story & rhyme time sessions 9.45 – 10.45am / £1 per child. Warm and friendly sessions for babies and toddlers with their parents and carers. Listen to wonderful stories together, have fun singing songs and rhymes, make simple crafts to take home, play with toys and percussion instruments, meet other parents and carers, explore the building and gardens and stay for a coffee and a chat in the cafe afterwards. 0161 872 0251 / www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Fridays in May & June

Victory Outreach Manchester. Salford Mother, Toddler & Baby Group 10am. The chance to have coffee & a chat with parents and carers, children can meet and play with other children. 0161 737 6624 / www.vomanchester.org

Sat & Sun in May & June

The Light Cinema, Bolton Family AM Cinema Screening 10am & 11am / £3. A fantastic selection of family friendly movies, with plenty of feel-good factor. Bargain screenings every Saturday & Sunday including during school holidays. www.bolton.lightcinemas.co.uk/family-am

Westhoughton Library, Bolton Children’s Craft Club 10am – 12pm / Free. Themed crafts each month for you to make and take home. 01942 634640 / www.bolton.gov.uk Parrs Wood High School (May) Chorlton High School (June) YoungCANCook – Parent & Child cooking sessions 10.30am – 1pm (under 11s), 1.30 – 4pm (over 11s) / £27.50 per person Have some tasty fun at these great cooking sessions. Inspiring and interactive 2½ hour cooking sessions for the family. All ingredients and utensils provided. www.crackinggoodfood.org

Sat 6 & Sat 20 May, Sat 3 June

Horwich Library, Bolton Crafternoons 2 – 4pm / Free. A free fortnightly craft session 01204 332348 / www.boltonlams.co.uk

Sat 6 May & Sat 10 June

The John Rylands Library Toddler tales 11am / Under 5s. Find a cosy corner, pull up a cushion and listen to fun stories. Join in playtime, creating a storyworld of your own. No need to book. www.library.manchester.ac.uk

Bramall Hall ‘Early Birds’ for Families with Autism 10 – 11.30am / Free, booking essential. Early opening for families with autism, offering an opportunity to explore the Hall before general opening. Enjoy family trails and activities. Crafting Adventure 1 – 3pm / Age 4+ / £2 per pack plus standard admission. Grab a craft pack and make creations together with a little inspiration from our marvellous Hall. Drop in. 0161 474 2020 / stockport.gov.uk/museums

Fri 5 May

Sat 6 May

Mon 4 May & Mon 8 June

The Lowry Theatre, Salford Goldilocks & the Three Bears 2017 12pm & 2pm / £5.50 – £8.50. Northern Ballet presents a brand-new retelling of Goldilocks & the Three Bears. The perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre for the first time. 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Oldham Library Oldham Comic Con 10am – 4pm / Free. Comic creating workshops, meet famous authors and artists and explore the library’s comic book collection. Dress up as your favourite character – you could be crowned Oldham Libraries’ cosplay competition winner! www.oldham.gov.uk/libraries

East Lancashire Railway, Bury Alice in Wonderland 10am – 4pm / £5 – £8. Curiouser and curiouser, set off down the rabbit hole and enter a world of surreal surprises and perplexing possibilities as Wonderland takes over Bury Transport Museum. An interactive family adventure. 0161 764 7790 / www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Sat 7 May

Irlam And Cadishead Leisure Centre, Salford Salford Comic Con 2017 10am – 5pm / Adult £4, Child £2, Family (2 + 2) £8, Family £2 + 3) £10. A family fun day event, celebrating all things related to superheroes, and sci-fi such as Star Wars, Dr Who and other popular TV related programmes. Loads of exciting exhibitors and competitions. www.mseevents.co.uk

Thurs 11 May

Bramall Hall Bramall Babies - Sensory Stories 11.30am – 12.15pm / Babies / £6 (max 2 free adults), booking essential. A sensory story and play session. Listen to tales of Billy the Bear, Dottie the Dizzy Dragon or hear a surprise story! Suitable for babies not yet walking. 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/museums

Thurs 11 – Sun 14 May

Prince’s Park, Irlam Family Funfair Thurs & Fri: 5.30 – 9.30pm / Sat: 12.30 – 9.30pm / Sun 12.30 – 7pm. A traditional spring funfair with plenty of children’s rides, side shows, thrills and candy floss. Rides £1.50

Fri 12 May

Waterside Arts Centre, Sale The First Hippo On The Moon 1pm & 5pm / Age 3+ / £11. From Number One bestselling children’s author David Walliams comes an explosively funny space adventure for children of 3 and up. Two big hippos. One ENORMOUS dream. Who can make it to the moon first? 0161 912 5616 / www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Fri 12 May & Fri 9 June

Hat Works, Stockport Messy Milliners 11 – 11.45am / Babies & early walkers / £4 (2 free accompanying adults), booking essential. An exciting and innovative messy play session with a hatting theme! 0161 474 2399 / stockport.gov.uk/museums Stockport Museum Object of the month May: Squirrel’s Confectionery Tin June: Dowel Cave Skeletons 1pm / All ages / Free, drop in. A fascinating lunchtime short talk featuring an object from our Museums Collection. stockport.gov.uk/museums

Sat 13 May

Lyme Park, Disley The Great British Dog Walk 10am & 11am / Adults £10, under 16s & dogs free A charity walk for all dog lovers to support Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. Lots of fun activities for adults and children! www.hearingdogs.org.uk Victoria Square, Bolton Teenage Market 10am – 4pm. Arts, Crafts, Food, Drink, Performers and many more. Young people showcasing their talents – a fun day out to help support the young people in the community. www.theteenagemarket.co.uk

12 Families Manchester | www.familiesonline.co.uk

Oulton Park Circuit, Little Budworth Bubble Rush 2017 12pm & 1.30pm / Adult £20, Child £10 (or free if you raise over £100 in sponsorship). A family-friendly 5km fun-run with live entertainment. 01606 555815 / www.stlukes-hospice.co.uk Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Storytelling and Play session 9.30am, 10.15am, 11am / Free but advance booking essential. A special storytelling and play session for babies and toddlers. 01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank

Sat 13 May & Sat 10 June

Hat Works, Stockport ‘Early Birds’ for Families with Autism 9am – 11am / All ages / £2 craft activity, free museum entry. Enjoy the museum at a quiet time and take part in a different craft activity helped by a member of staff. Also explore the machinery and exhibits displayed. Drop in. 0161 474 2399 / stockport.gov.uk/museums

Sat 13 & Sun 14 May

Albert Square, Manchester, M2 5DB, Góbéfest 11am – 11pm. The Uk’s first Transylvanian Hungarian festival of arts and culture – with music, dance and food. Free family friendly activities running 11.30am – 8pm both days, including puppet shows, folk art workshops, a traditional Hungarian dancehouse for children, zither workshops, folk singing sessions and crafts activities. www.gobefest.com Tatton Park, Knutsford The Tatton Park Country Show 10am – 5pm / Adult £9.50, Child (5 – 16) £4, Family £25. Something for everyone with all day entertainment (Jousting, Stunt Bikes, Dog Training, Living History, Birds of Prey, Goat Show, Children’s petting pens, magic show, arts, crafts, gifts and food). Enter your pooch in the Companion Dog Show (proceeds to Marie Curie). www.oakleighfairs.co.uk

Sun 14 May

Flixton Girls’ School, Urmston Baby and Children’s Market 2 – 3.30pm / £1 entry (children free). Excellent quality nearly new baby & children’s items from birth to 8 years, plus a small selection of unique businesses in the baby & children’s industry. No ATM at the venue – please bring cash. www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Bramall Park Duck Race 17 11am / £1 per duck race entry. Lots of races, entertainment, music and dancing. 2 free duck busses throughout the day between Bramhall Village and the park, Hazel Grove HS and Stockport Rugby Club. Free entry. www.bwrotary.org

Wed 17 May

Air Raid Shelters, Stockport Explorer Tunnel Tours - Going Underground 7pm / Age 11+ / Adult 6.50, under 16s £5.50, booking essential. An evening tour around the shelters to see the extent of Stockport’s air raid preparations. Visit areas not usually open to the public, including unlit and reinforced tunnelling. 0161 474 1940 / stockport.gov.uk/museums

Thurs 18 May

Staircase House, Stockport Staircase Special 5 – 9.30pm / All ages / £3, Under 16s £2.50, drop in Take advantage of this rare opportunity to take a peek and be captivated by an atmospheric evening trip around Staircase House, with tour rooms dating from the 15th century upwards. www.stockport.gov.uk/museums Z-arts, Hulme Manchester After Hours 6pm / Age 5+ / Free. An evening of poetry and pyjamas as part of Manchester After Hours. Come along in your pyjamas, hear some lyrical rhymes and take part in an interactive workshop, whilst sipping your favourite night-time treat in the Z-arts Café. 0161 232 6089 / www.z-arts.org

Not all event information is available at the time of going to press – so make sure you visit our website which is full of fabulous LOCAL content and being constantly updated. www.familiesonline.co.uk Stockport Museum Meet the Archaeologist All ages / Free, drop in. Handle and interpret real archaeological items and ask questions. www.stockport.gov.uk/museums

Sat 20 May

Z-arts, Hulme Children’s Table Top Sale 1.30 – 4.30pm / All ages / Free. Turn your second-hand baby and kids clothes & toys into cash and support Z-arts at the same time. 0161 232 6089 / www.z-arts.org Tatton Park, Knutsford Radical Run Ages 5 - 14. 3km, fun obstacles, 100s of excited kids and happy adults! www.radicalrun.co.uk

Sat 20 May & Sat 24 June

Spindles Shopping Centre, Oldham Free Face painting and craft activities 11am – 3pm / Free

Sat 20 & Sun 21 May

Museum of Transport, Cheetham MRX: Model Railway Exhibition 10am – 4.30pm / All ages / Adult £7, Under 16s (accompanied) free. A family friendly day out featuring a wide variety of working model railway layouts. 0161 205 2122 / www.gmts.co.uk Lord Lane Playing Fields, Failsworth Failsworth Carnival Sat: 10.30am – 6pm, Sun: 10.30am – 5pm / Free Traditional parade, live dance acts, fairground activities, food and stalls. www.failsworthcarnival.btck.co.uk

Sat 20 May & Sat 24 June

Oldham Academy North Mum2mum Market Nearly New Sale 1 – 3pm / Adult £2, Child free. Buy or sell nearly new or new baby and children’s clothes as well as maternity clothes, prams, cots, stairgates, car seats, books, toys and many more. Hire a stall and keep 100% of your takings. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

What’s on

Sat 20 – Mon 29 May

MediaCityUK Quays Culture Unnatural Borders Exhibition Four gigantic sculptures exploring the interaction and impact between human civilization and the animal kingdom environment. The 3D sculptures represent endangered species - Polar Bear, Whale, Red Squirrel and a Bee. By day they tower over the public on large separate plinths, at 9pm they’ll be lit up with stunning visual projections, presenting a magical show of light and illusion. www.quaysculture.com

Sun 21 May

Livia Forest, Prestwich Art on the Run Adult £20, Child £10, limited places. A magical 5K family run encountering surprising and fantastical art installations along a woodland route. Medals for everyone completing the run. www.artontherun.org.uk St Mary’s Flower Park, Prestwich Prestwich Clough Day 12 – 5pm / All ages / Free. Country crafts, children’s activities, falconry displays, brass bands, dancing displays and refreshments. www.prestwichclough.co.uk Helly Hansen Watersports Centre, Salford Quays The Salford Dragon Boat Festival 10am – 4pm. www.sdbf.co.uk Cheadle Hulme Methodist Church Mum2mum Market Nearly New Sale 1.30 – 3.30pm / £2 admission. Buy or sell nearly new or new baby and children’s clothes as well as maternity clothes, prams, cots, stairgates, car seats, books, toys and many more. Hire a stall and keep 100% of your takings. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

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What’s on Sun 21 May & Sat 10 June

Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery People’s History Family Session 2 – 4pm / All ages / Free, booking essential With guidance by Stockport artist and artist educator, Pauline Wood, you’ll create a canvas in response to ‘The Thread That Binds Us’ Exhibition. Bring along photocopies of photos of family members or pictures you have of people that have worked in the any of the Stockport Industries such as hatting or in the mills. 0161 474 4453 / stockport.gov.uk/museums

Fri 26 May

Octagon Bolton Storyplay - Fantastic Mr Fox 4.30pm / £5 per child (1 free adult per child) An afternoon of storytelling for families of all ages. 01204 520661 / www.octagonbolton.co.uk

Fri 26 May & Fri 23 June

Hat Works, Stockport Mad Hatters Art & Crafts Club 10am – 12pm / Ages 2 – 5 / £6 (2 free accompanying adults), 2 – 3pm / Babies – 2 / £4 (2 free accompanying adults). An action packed hour of arts and crafts with the emphasis on fun and age and ability appropriate crafts. Dress to get messy! Booking essential 0161 474 2399 / stockport.gov.uk/museums

Sat 27 May

Chester Racecourse Roman Day 2017 A fun day with a Roman theme. Lots of Roman themed activities for all the family and plenty to see and do; plus non stop racing action. Have your picture taken with authentic legions in Roman clothing and equipment. 01244 304600 / www.chester-races.co.uk Festival Oldham Oldham town centre and Gallery Oldham 11am – 4pm / Free. Theatre, art, music and dance right in the heart of the town centre. 0161 770 3070 / www.visitoldham.com

Sat 27 – Mon 29 May

The Royal Cheshire Show Ground, Tabley The Great 3-in-1 Spring Show A fabulous family weekend with loads of entertainment, food, shopping and music. KIDS GO FREE. www.TheGreatSpringShow.com East Lancashire Railway, Bury 1940s Weekend 10am - 4pm / £9.90- £17.10. An incredibly popular vintage spectacular with singing, dancing and fun! 0161 764 7790 / www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk Arley Hall, Northwich Geronimo 10am – 9.30pm daily. The UK’s largest children’s festival with over 130 activities. www.geronimofest.com

Sat 27 May – Fri 2 June

Jodrell Bank Bee Backpacks Trail 10am – 5pm / All ages / Normal admission + £20 refundable deposit. Explore the life of a bee as you make your way around the gardens carrying out bee-themed activities on your journey. Children must be accompanied. Part of the Amazed by Science festival. www.amazedbyscience.com

Sat 27 May – Sun 11 June

Stockport Museum Half Term Crafty Makes Ages 3 – 11 / £1 craft pack, drop in. Pick up a craft bag and find a celebration of spring for you to make. Decorate your tree or create a bird’s nest collage. stockport.gov.uk/museums

Sat 27 & Sun 28 May

Waterside Arts Centre, Sale The Scarecrow’s Wedding Sat: 11am, Sun 11am & 2pm / Age 3+ / £11. Based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, Betty O’Barley and Harry O’Hay invite you to... The best wedding ever, the best wedding yet, The wedding that no one will ever forget. A heart-warming adaptation that is bursting at the seams with wit, drama and wedding bells. 0161 912 5616 / www.watersideartscentre.co.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 or upload your event listing to our website - www.familiesonline.co.uk Tatton Park, Knutsford Sheep shearing at the Farm 1.30pm / Normal charges apply. Local sheep shearer David Norcott will be shearing some of the flock daily. 01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sun 28 May

Hat Works, Stockport Super Sunday - All About Hats! 11am – 4pm / All ages / £2 (under 2s free), drop in A fun day for the family. Make a hat, hear stories about hats, see our amazing hats and be part of a hat fashion parade! 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/museums

Sun 28 & Mon 29 May

Bolton Steam Museum Spring Bank Holiday Steamings 10am – 4pm / Free, but donations welcomed. Over 25 old stationary steam engines rescued and restored by volunteers – some of the engines which once powered the cotton mills of Lancashire. Most will be running in steam. 01204 846490 / www.nmes.org

Mon 29 May

Parrs Wood High School Sports Centre, Didsbury Children’s Multi-Activity Fun Day 10am – 5pm / £9.50 (covers all activities), Adults and under 3s free. An exciting children’s fun day with a mixture of indoor and outdoor activities so no need to worry about the weather. Indoors: Electric Go Karts, Giant Obstacle Course, Massive Slide, Bouncy Castle, Whizz Wheels, Sporting activities Outdoors: Battlefield Live Combat Game, BodyZorbing, Sporting activities. Drinks and snacks available. www.go-kiddy-karts.co.uk/fun_day WACO Westhoughton, Bolton WACO It’s a Knockout Family Fun Day 2017 11am – 4pm / Fairground rides £1 / Free admission for under 16s. Fairground , Stalls, Donkey rides, Entertainment, Characters, Howfen Radio, Scooter rally, Vintage cars, Displays, Artisan food market and food court.

Mon 29 May – Fri 2 June

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal The Worst Children’s Jobs job shop 11am – 4pm / Free but normal admission applies Answer the interactive quiz and find out whether you’d be a cheery chimney sweep or a magnificent mole catcher. Don’t get fired! Follow the interactive family trail around Quarry Bank to test your mettle against some of the most exhausting, dirtiest and disgusting jobs in all of history. 01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank Catalyst, Widnes Ludicrous Liquids 11am & 2pm / Age 5 -1 0 / Admission charge + £1.25pp for workshop. Experiment with interesting and surprising liquids. How many colours can you get in your rainbow straw, and can you make a lava lamp? Fantastic Plastic 12pm & 3pm / Age 5 – 16 / Admission charge + £1.25 pp for workshop. Experiment with an amazing plastic material before making it into a key ring to take home. Tickets for workshops sold on arrival only, places limited. Part of the Amazed by Science festival. www.amazedbyscience.com Chester Zoo Nutrition Science at the Zoo 10 – 11.30am / All ages / Free, normal admission applies. Creating diets for our unique animals is an importance science. Compare different animals and work out what nutrition they need. Demo is free to attend and takes place on a drop-in basis. Part of the Amazed by Science festival. www.amazedbyscience.com Tatton Park Be Amazed by Science! Trails during opening hours, Farm workshops 2pm / Free, but normal admission applies. Discover the secrets of science and technology in the Mansion, Gardens and Farm this May half term. Spotting trails around the Mansion and Gardens daily, with a workshop at the Farm. Part of Amazed by Science festival. Tues 30 May: Diets and Digestion Wed 31 May: Challenge the Root Chopper

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Thurs 1 June: Weights and Measures Fri 2 June: The Science of Butter & Cheese Making 01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk Jodrell Bank Cheshire Beekeepers Stand and Observation Hive 10am – 5pm / All ages / Free, normal admission applies A chance to talk to real Beekeepers and learn about the ancient craft of Beekeeping and the wonderful life of the honeybee. See live bees up close in an observation hive and find out how to encourage bee friendly habitats. Part of the Amazed by Science festival. www.amazedbyscience.com

Tues 30 May

Bramall Hall How the Hall Was Built 2pm & 3pm / Age 7+ / £4, booking essential. Find out how different parts of Bramall Hall were built and try your hand at making a plaster ceiling pendant. 0161 474 2020 / stockport.gov.uk/museums

Tues 30 May – Thurs 1 June

Hat Works, Stockport Half Term Fun 2 – 4pm / all ages / £5, booking advised. Lots of different activities for all ages to try out, from decoupage to felt making, and marbling to quilling. Limited places. 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/museums Ordsall Hall Museum, Salford Outdoor Fun 10am – 4pm / Free, drop in. Head to the garden for some outdoor activities exploring the natural world. 0161 872 0251 / www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Tues 30 May & Thurs 1 June

Ordsall Hall Meet the Maids 10am – 12pm & 1 – 3pm / £1.50, drop in. Meet one of the servants at Ordsall Hall. You’ll be able to find out about her life and have a go at making a peg doll to take home. 0161 872 0251 / www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Tues 30 May – Fri 2 June

Jodrell Bank Siemens Pods 10am – 5pm / All ages / Free, normal admission applies Learn, explore and experience science, technology, engineering and maths in action with Siemens’ interactive online games. Activities vary from testing your skills to keep cars rolling off a production line, putting a human skeleton together correctly, to choosing the right energy solutions to keep an island running! Children must be accompanied. Is it Science or Magic? 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm & 2.30pm / All ages / Free (normal admission applies) A live science show full of fun experiments, interactive demonstrations, and even the occasional explosion. Great for all budding young scientists (and magicians!). Under 5s Storytime 11am / under 5s (accompanied) / Free (normal admission applies). A story telling session that’s science themed, fun and interactive. Meet the Expert 1.30pm / Age 7+ / Free (normal admission applies) Meet one of the resident science and astronomy experts. Find out about their work and ask the questions you’ve always wanted the answers to. Live Beekeeping Demonstrations 2pm / All ages / Free, normal admission applies Closely view the hive inspections from behind the netted screen of Jodrell Bank’s very own Apiary. Our Beekeepers will talk through what they’re looking for and how the colony is doing as well as answer any questions after the show. Children must be accompanied. All these events are part of Amazed by Science, a Cheshire-wide family festival that promotes and celebrates science, technology and engineering. www.amazedbyscience.com

Tues 30 May – Fri 2 June

Dunham Massey, Altrincham Outdoor Adventures 12 – 4pm / All ages / Free, normal admission applies Find some fun outdoor adventures for all the family this half term. Get closer to nature and tick off some ‘50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾’ along the way. 0161 941 1025 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunham-massey

Wed 31 May

Tatton Park, Knutsford A Day in the Life of a Victorian Servant 10.30am – 12.30pm / Ages 7 – 11 / £12, booking essential. Step back in time and experience the harsh reality of life below stairs. 01625 374428 / www.tattonpark.org.uk Bramall Hall Patterns & Printing 2pm & 3pm / All ages / £4, booking essential Be inspired by the patterns and shapes in the Hall and sketch a design to create a press print to take home. 0161 474 2020 / stockport.gov.uk/museums Anderton Boat Lift, Northwich Engineering Experiments with Cranes & Lifts 11am – 3pm / Ages 5 – 16 / Free, drop in. Learn all about canal cranes and experiment with gears by having a go at building a working mini crane. Understand how hydraulics work by experimenting using our kits, which will help you see the amazing power of hydraulics and understand the principles behind the Anderton Boat Lift. Part of Amazed By Science 01606 786 777 / www.amazedbyscience.co.uk

Thurs 1 June

Touchstones, Rochdale Half Term Fun 11am – 2pm / All ages / Free, drop in. A fun day of Egyptian themed creative workshops. www.link4life.org Bramall Hall The Beasts of Bramall Hall 10am, 1pm & 3pm / Ages 3 – 6 / £5 (1 free accompanying adult). A magical tour of the Hall for our younger visitors. Listen to stories based on the creatures found here and find the Red Dragon. 0161 474 2399 / stockport.gov.uk/museums East Lancashire Railway, Bury Neverland Express 10am – 4pm / £7.30 – £11.50. Take the second star on the right and straight on until morning as you board your own steam powered pirate ship with Peter Pan, Tinker-Bell, Captain James Hook and his crew of dastardly buccaneers, happy thoughts included free! 0161 764 7790 / www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk Ordsall Hall, Salford Sand Fossils 10am – 12pm & 1 – 3pm / £2, drop in. Bring a small plastic toy and have a go at making your very own sand fossil to take home. 0161 872 0251 / www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Fri 2 June

Hat Works, Stockport Top Hat Toddlers 10.30am – 12.30pm / Ages 2 – 5 / £4 (2 free accompanying adults), booking essential. An exciting play session. Stay for as long as you like within the two hours. 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/museums

Sat 3 June

Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Don’t Dribble On The Dragon 2.30pm / Age 2+ / £9. Based on the fabulous new book by Steven Lee and with magic designed by TV legend Paul Daniels, this spectacular musical adventure about growing up and the importance of family is the perfect feel good show for big hearted adults and loving little ones alike. As an extra treat, Steven will be available to sign copies of Don’t Dribble On The Dragon which you can bring with you or get in the theatre after the show. 0161 912 5616 / www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Not all event information is available at the time of going to press – so make sure you visit our website which is full of fabulous LOCAL content and being constantly updated. www.familiesonline.co.uk Tatton Park, Knutsford Classic Car Spectacular with Giant Cheshire Autojumble 9am – 4pm / Adult £9, Children (10 – 16) £6, Under 10s free. One of Britain’s best and most popular classic car shows with around 2,000 classic and performance cars on display. Light entertainment with children’s rides, refreshments and bar. 01565 723863 / www.cheshireautopromotions.co.uk

Mon 5 June

Sat 3 & Sun 4 June

Wed 7 – Sun 11 June

East Lancashire Railway, Bury Small Engines Weekend 10am - 4pm / £14 - £22. A special weekend that gives the rarely seen workhorses of the railway their spot in the limelight. 0161 764 7790 / www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk Dunham Massey, Altrincham Teddy Bears’ Picnic 12 – 4pm / All ages / Free, normal admission applies Bring your teddy bear and a picnic to the garden today and enjoy storytelling and a brass band. Garden ticket required. 0161 941 1025 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunham-massey

Sun 4 June

Marland Golf Course Link4Life’s Big Games 1 – 5pm. Free activities for families – something for all ages. www.link4life.org Hat Works, Stockport Hatting Walk Guided Tour 11.30am / Age 8+ (accompanied) / £6, booking essential. Walk in the footsteps of Stockport’s hatters with hatting expert, Sue Lea. An outdoor tour around the sites that played a huge part in Stockport’s hat trade. Tour lasts approximately 2½ hrs. 0161 474 2399 / stockport.gov.uk/museums

Stockport Museum Visits for Families with Autism 10am – 12pm / All ages / £1 craft pack, free museum entry. Enjoy the Museum while it’s quiet and closed to the public. Staff will be on hand to chat about the exhibits and a craft activity pack is an additional option. Drop in. www.stockport.gov.uk/museums Manchester Opera House Gangsta Granny David Walliams’ hilarious tale of one boy and his Granny. 0161 8281700 / www.palaceandoperahouse.org.uk

Thurs 8 June

Air Raid Shelters, Stockport Children’s Explorer Tours 6.45 – 8.15pm / Ages 7+ / £4 (accompanying adults £3), booking essential. Exciting children’s tours exploring the shelters. Brave the darkened tunnels go back in time and experience life as a child during WWII. 0161 474 1940 / stockport.gov.uk/museums

Fri 9 June

Saddleworth Villages, Oldham The Whit Friday Band Contests 4 – 11pm / Free. Spend a day in the beautiful villages of Saddleworth and listen to the sounds of brass at ‘the greatest free show on Earth’. World class brass bands will entertain the family across 20 different open-air contests throughout the day. www.whitfriday.brassbands.saddleworth.org

Fri 9 & Sat 10 June

Oldham Library Aleena’s Garden Fri: 11am & 1pm, Sat: 11am & 2.30pm / Ages 0 – 3 An interactive sensory adventure for little ones. Help Aleena bring her seeds to life in her garden and watch flowers and trees bloom. 0161 770 8000 / www.oldham-council.co.uk

Sat 10 June

Z-arts, Hulme Bright Sparks Summer Showcase 2 – 4.30pm / All Ages / Adult £3, Child £2 An afternoon of performances from Z-arts rising stars, including ballet, street dance, Bright Stars and ZYP. All proceeds go towards Z-arts fundraising target. 0161 232 6089 / www.z-arts.org The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester The Amazing Sound Quest : BBC Philharmonic Family Concert 3pm / Age 6+ / Adult £15, Under 16s £10, Family £37 (4 people, min 1 child). Join award-winning musical comedian and super-sleuth Vikki Stone on an adventure to track down a host of enchanting, wild, magical musical sounds all hiding out in a concert stuffed full of great music played by the stunning BBC Philharmonic. www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

Sun 11 June

Woodford Community Centre, Stockport Cheshire Tortoise Day 10am – 4pm / All ages / £2 (children free). All things Tortoise, as well as pet portraits, dog accessories, tombola, children’s competitions, Feathery Folk live owl display and light refreshments for sale. 07891 283753 / wwwbritishcheloniagroup.org.uk Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, Oldham Summer Fair 12 – 4pm / £1. A day out for a good cause. Home baked goods, crafts, raffles, jewellery, entertainment, bouncy castle and live music. 0161 624 9984 / www.drkershawshospice.org.uk East Lancashire Railway, Bury Race the Train 10am – 4pm. It’s the race to end all races, feet vs. steam, man vs. train. Who will win? 0161 764 7790 / www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

What’s on Fri 16 – Sun 25 June

The Bethel Crowd AODS, Westhoughton, Bolton Cinderella and Rockerfella Panto 7.15 daily (2.15 matinee Saturdays) / £4. A modern, panto-style reworking of the classic tale with all the traditional characters together with a selection of additional characters, from music managers and paparazzi to good and bad fairies – all placed in a world of fame and celebrity. www.bethelcrowd.co.uk

Sat 17 June

University of Manchester Community Festival 11am – 3pm / All ages / Free. A fun-filled day of hands-on activities, including: live experiments, interactive demonstrations, musical and dramatic performances, the chance to meet our staff and scientists, behind the scenes tours, workshops and much, much more! www.manchester.ac.uk/communityfestival Market Place, Heywood Armed Forces Day – Forgotten Wars – 1940’s Day 10am – 6pm. A full day of stalls, bands, display town dress up, a Service of Remembrance, Armed Forces display and concerts. An Armed Forces Parade, steam engine old coach up and down, including a Family Fun Day and Armed Forces Parade with Pipe Band. www.armedforcesday.org.uk

Sat 17 & Sun 18 June

Arley Hall, Northwich DogFest North 2017 A fun-filled, action packed weekend, for you and your dog – hosted by Supervet Noel Fitzpatrick. Plenty of activities for dogs and their owners! www.dog-fest.co.uk Tatton Park, Knutsford Medieval Fayre 11am – 5pm / Adult £7.50, Child (4 – 15) £5, Family (2+3) £20, normal park admission applies. With hundreds of re-enactors, traders and artisans, the fayre is one of the most atmospheric events in the living history calendar. Good food, ale music and shopping. www.eventplan.co.uk

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What’s on Sun 18 June

Middleton Arena Link4Life’s Big Games 1 – 5pm. Free activities for families – something for all ages.www.link4life.org Horwich Leisure Centre, Bolton One Lap Fun Run/Cycle Run 2.45pm / Cycle 3.15pm / Adult £4, Child £2. A fun run/cycle for adults and children of all ages (cycle is for age 6+, helmets compulsory). Medals for all. www.horwichfesticalofracing.co.uk Manchester City Centre Manchester Day 12 – 6pm. Celebrate everything we love about Manchester. Parades, performances, food, drink, entertainment. Perfect for all the family. www.manchesterday.co.uk Waterside Arts Centre, Sale : Walkden Gardens Billionaire Boy 4pm / Age 7+ / £14 (£40 Family ticket). Bring your picnics, blankets and fold up chairs and come to the helicopter pad outside at Bumfresh Towers to hear the story of how Mr Spud made his billions and lost it all... and how Joe became the richest boy in the world. The show takes place outside in Walkden Gardens. Please dress suitably as this event will take place rain or shine and bring your own seating as this won’t be provided. Babes aged 12months and over require a ticket. 0161 912 5616 / www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Tues 20 & Wed 21 June Clay House Farm, Knutsford Royal Cheshire County Show A fabulous family day out. www.royalcheshireshow.org

These listings are for guidance only – please check before you go To include your upcoming event in our listings, email events@familiesmanchester.co.uk or upload your event listing to our website - www.familiesonline.co.uk Wed 21 June

Tatton Park, Knutsford The Secret Life of Trees 10am – 12pm / Age 8+ / £10, booking essential Take a walk through the parkland with the rangers to learn about and identify some of Tatton’s special trees. Find out why they bare so important and how we manage them. 01625 374428 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sat 24 June

Z-arts, Hulme The Welcoming Party HQ Fun Day 11am – 3pm / All ages / Free. We’re kick-starting our summer of welcome and celebrating setting up the headquarters for The Welcoming Party with a day of fun for all the family. Get creative, making badges and banners. Bring your own t-shirt to screenprint so you can wear it at The Welcoming Party performances. 0161 232 6089 / www.z-arts.org Chorlton High School Mum2mum Market Nearly New Sale 1.30 – 3.30pm / £2 entry. Buy or sell nearly new or new baby and children’s clothes as well as maternity clothes, prams, cots, stairgates, car seats, books, toys and many more. Hire a stall and keep 100% of your takings. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk Heywood Sports Village Link4Life’s Big Games 1 – 5pm. Free activities for families – something for all ages. www.link4life.org Dover Street, Eccles Salford Armed Forces Day 10.30am – 4pm. A parade culminating at Winton Park with a family fun day. www.armedforcesday.org.uk

16 Families Manchester | www.familiesonline.co.uk

Northenden War Memorial Armed Forces Day, Northenden and Wythenshawe 12 – 6pm. Formal re-opening of the Memorial Garden. Light refreshments, gazebos, stalls and merchandise available. www.armedforcesday.org.uk

Cheadle Hulme Oak Meadow Armed Forces Celebration 12 – 2pm. Location Bring your own picnic and enjoy the activities. www.armedforcesday.org.uk

Trafford Trafford Armed Forces Day 12 – 8pm. A free family festival with a youth village, sports and well being zone, Armed Forces and emergency services displays, battle of the bands and food and drink. www.armedforcesday.org.uk

Victoria Square, Bolton Armed Forces Day 10am – 4pm. Opening ceremony with 2 minutes silence, cadet marching display, Armed Forces Marketplace, exhibitions, a sunset flag ceremony. www.armedforcesday.org.uk

Crosfields ARLFC, Great Sankey Armed Forces Day 10am – 6pm. The very best in Armed Forces Rugby … it’s a fantastic FREE day out with FREE stuff and activities for the kids, food and refreshments available at Rugby Club prices. A Kidz-Zone with a 100ft long inflatable assault course, a 30 foot high climbing wall even ZORBS and Lazerquest! For the smaller ones there’s FREE GIFTS, FREE face-painting, Rugby-Minis, and more. www.armedforcesday.org.uk Warrington Warrington Armed Forces Day 9am – 8pm. A ‘fancy dress’ and photography opportunity in historical and modern military uniform, face painting, hook a duck, the bakeoff, craft fair, upcycling furniture, cake stall, jams and marmalades, fresh vegetable sales, bird and squirrel boxes, hanging baskets all grown by veterans and their families. www.armedforcesday.org.uk St Peter’s Square, Manchester Manchester Armed Forces Day: A Big Thank You 11am – 4pm. A march past at 11.30am, bands, military vehicles, loads of family friendly activities, including a climbing wall and face painting, delicious food and drink. www.armedforcesday.org.uk

Sat 24 & Sun 25 June

Tatton Park, Knutsford Pretty Muddy 5K & 10K (Sat) / RFL 5K & 10K (Sun) Cancer Research UK Race for Life – sign up to help beat cancer. www.raceforlife.org.uk

Fri 30 Jun

Octagon Bolton Storyplay - Hungry Caterpillar 4.30pm / £5 per child (1 free adult per child) An afternoon of storytelling for families of all ages. 01204 520661 / www.octagonbolton.co.uk

Sat 1 July

Victoria Square, Bolton Strongman 2017 10am – 6pm / Free event and parking 75 men and women from England, Wales & Scotland go to battle throughout the weekend to claim the coveted Strongman & Strongwoman Bolton titles. Loads of other family friendly attractions in the square too. www.strongmanbolton.com Rochdale Leisure Centre & Touchstones Rochdale Link4Life’s Big Games 10am – 2pm (Touchstones) 1 – 5pm (Leisure Centre). Free activities for families – something for all ages. www.link4life.org