THE CENTRES CHESTER We had an amazing time at the Chester Centre at Northgate Arena. Before the activities, we would explain the theme and the plan for the day. We would play introductory games that helped the children to get to know each other, and puzzles and games would be set out as an icebreaker. The children were obsessed with time bomb, we would play it at least 4 times a day! The young carers enjoyed the activities that were provided, especially drawing tv and film characters, the Olympics day and card games. In the afternoon, the children would take part in the workshops which went down a treat, especially print making, mixed media, pot painting and stop motion. Due to the limited outdoor space, the children would be taken to the park to let off some steam by playing football and basketball which they thoroughly loved! The children were also able to take part in quizzes, well-being, nutrition and fitness activities that assisted them with their social skills, self-confidence and forming strong friendships.
ELLESMERE PORT We had a fantastic time at the Ellesmere Port Brio Sports Village during the summer holidays. As a warm-up, we often sat down and discussed the current theme, the day ahead and then engaged in a few basic games to get them moving. These were often monkey ball or Kahoot Quizzes (where we had different coloured cones representing an answer). We found that doing a physical game from the beginning allowed them to wake up and get started. This was either followed up with a craft session until lunch. In the afternoon we were able to use the outdoor pitches which gave them all a chance to let off some steam and let staff wander between groups to get a more personal chat. Trips to Westlake and Manchester United were some of the highlights of the summer.
KNUTSFORD
6
During our two-week sessions based in the lower school campus of Knutsford Academy the young carers enjoyed playing group games, workshops, craft activities and days out. We also enjoyed themed sessions run by the amazing teaching staff; these included looking at and learning about dreamtime stories, aboriginal markings, the Olympics, the Great Barrier Reef, Japanese Manga art where they created their own Manga character, print making, totem poles and drama sessions. The young carers also got to take part in some team games and activities including escape room type maths puzzles where the young carers had to solve the puzzles as a team to unlock the different padlocks to discover the next clue. We also made use of the vast grounds and played games such as hide and seek (a firm favourite), rounders, football and some Olympic style activities.
