Families Manchester Issue 78 Nov/Dec 19

Manchester

In this issue: All you need to have yourself a merry little Christmas!

CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS IN

MANCHESTER GRA MUG B A FO onl R y

£3

Come and SEE OUR STUNNING ICE SCULPTURES In CATHEDRAL GARDENS! Book at www.manchester.gov.uk/christmas

97073.10 Christmas 2019_Families MCR_Front page banner ad_AW.indd 1

Issue 78 November/December 2019

#MCRChristmas

16/10/2019 14:19

familiesonline.co.uk

FOR FAMILY FUn, THERE’S NOWHERE COOLER

CHRISTMAS AT

CATHEDRAL GARDENS AN ICe RINK, CHRISTMAS MARKETS AND AN ICE CAVERN OPEN 8 NOVEMBER TO 5 JANUARY Book at www.manchester.gov.uk/christmas

#MCRChristmas

News There’s no place like Manchester this Christmas!

Manchester’s magical Christmas season is bound to create some fabulous memories.

For a guaranteed unforgettable day out for all ages, there’s plenty to see and do in the wonderful Ice Village in Cathedral Gardens. This ice-tastic experience includes Manchester’s award-winning Christmas Markets, Santa’s Grotto, Ice Rink, Ice Tiki Bar and a breathtaking Ice Cavern – an amazing interactive ice sculpture attraction. As you’re transported into a world of mythical beasts and fairytales, you may meet a unicorn, griffin and a HUGE ice dragon. But be sure to wrap up warm!

You can also get your skate on at Skate Manchester’s Ice Rink, with its new clear roof, perfect for any weather. And for those less confident skaters, friendly penguins will be on hand to help.

Of course, no Christmas is complete without visiting the big man himself at Santa’s Grotto – with the Christmas Markets or the Ice Tiki Bar for scrumptious food, drinks and sweet treats.

The Ice Village is open from 8 November until 5 January and has something for all the family.

For all things Christmas in Manchester, booking and ticket information, visit www.manchester.gov.uk/ christmas

Winter Funland returns to Manchester

The UK’s biggest Christmas indoor Winter Wonderland returns to Event City, Manchester from 6 December to 5 January!

Enjoy five amazing festive attractions including: a huge real ice rink, a fabulous Christmas circus, an incredible panto, a vast indoor funfair and of course, Santa Claus.

There will also be plenty of food and drink available, catering for a wide range of Next issue: January/February 2020 Circulation: 30,000 copies of Families Manchester are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected shops and other points throughout Greater Manchester. If you would like free copies for your organisation, please let us know.

Editors: Jayne Keep & Caryl Hall Contact details: Families Manchester, 3 Hall Hill, Bollington SK10 5ED Tel: 01625 801 801 www.familiesonline.co.uk Editorial: editor@familiesmanchester.co.uk 3 familiesonline.co.uk Families Manchester

requirements including vegan, vegetarian, gluten and lactose free options.

There will be plenty of space to park any prams as well as a quiet breastfeeding area and baby changing facilities throughout the venue.

An autism-friendly sensory experience will be available exclusively for autistic children and their family to enjoy on Monday 9 December, with Funland being closed to the general public on this day.

All-inclusive admission tickets are £23.50 per person and under 3’s go FREE. Fastpass tickets to visit Father Christmas at Santa’s Grotto are also available from www.winterfunland.com Advertising/artwork: advertising@familiesmanchester.co.uk Events, diary dates, what’s on: events@familiesmanchester.co.uk Cover Photography: www.manchester.gov.uk/christmas Design: WITH Creative, Congleton. www.withcreative.co.uk Print: Warwick Printers, Caswell Road Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV31 1QD Tel: 01926 883355 www.warwickprinting.co.uk

Winter adventures at Dunham Massey

Help celebrate the 30th anniversary of Nick Butterworth’s classic children’s book, Percy the Park Keeper: One Snowy Night at Dunham Massey.

With the historic stables transformed into Percy’s iconic hut, children can meet Percy and listen to festive tales and then enjoy a hot chocolate and a biscuit from the Ice Cream

Parlour for Christmas at Percy’s, a lovely alternative to a Father Christmas visit! Tickets cost £10 for a child and £5 for an adult, with every children’s ticket coming with a special gift.

You can also pick up an interactive family trail map for £2.50 from the visitor centre, spot the animals and discover how they prepare their homes for a cold winter. Don’t forget to pick up your prize too!

And the evenings will see Dunham’s garden transformed into a winter wonderland as the sell-out, magical, after-dark, illuminated trail returns for its third year. Booking is essential.

For all events at Dunham Massey this winter, please see www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ Dunham-Massey.

Are you feeling lucky?!

Get your skates on and WIN a family ticket to Skate Manchester at Ice Village Manchester

This November, Cathedral Gardens in Manchester will be transformed into an enchanting winter wonderland with a covered outdoor ice rink for skating whatever the weather, plus winter themed attractions including Christmas Markets, Santa’s Grotto, Arctic Bar and the Ice Cavern, perfect for getting into the festive spirit. Open from 8 November 2019 to 5 January 2020, visit skatemanchester.com for more details and to book.

One lucky Families reader can win a family ticket for an ice-skating session at Skate Manchester! Simply Families Manchester is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Manchester are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Manchester

send an email with your name and phone number and the word ICE as the subject to caryl@familiesmanchester.co.uk.

Hurry – the competition closes Sunday 24 November.

Terms: Prize is for a family ticket for a 45-minute ice skating session at Skate Manchester, worth £35 and includes entry to the rink for one ice skating session for four people. Prize does not include skate aids or entry or access to other attractions within Ice Village Manchester which are run independently to the ice rink.

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

Families familiesonline.co.uk Manchester 3

Where’s Santa Santa’s a very busy man at this time of year, but he still takes the time to talk to as many good children as he can!

If you write to him, using one of the two options below, you can expect a very special letter back. Or head to one of the venues we’ve listed below to see him in person!

Write to Santa…..

Royal Mail Letter to Santa For children to receive a FREE letter from Santa via the Royal Mail children must post their letter to Santa by Friday 6 December.

Envelopes must have either a first or second class stamp and be addressed to Santa/Father Christmas, Santa’s Grotto, Reindeerland, XM4 5HQ. The letter must include your child’s full name and address. www.royalmail.com/christmas/ letters-to-santa NSPCC Santa Letter Children can also receive a personalised reply from Santa via his elves at the NSPCC in exchange for a minimum £5 donation to the charity. The letter is ordered online and must be placed by 9 December. www.letterfromsanta.org.uk

See Santa in person….

Arndale Centre, Manchester Santa’s Grotto Thurs 21 Nov – Tues 24 Dec www.manchesterarndale.com Bents Garden & Home, Warrington Father Christmas’ Arrival Tues 19 Nov – Tues 24 Dec The man himself will arrive in style at 10am and this year he will be joined by some of his festive folk in a parade! www.bents.co.uk Bramhall Village Light Up Bramhall Sun 1 Dec 12 – 6pm. Enjoy a festive afternoon out with Christmas Markets, live music and Santa’s grotto, culminating in the Christmas Light Switch On! www.ilovebramhall.com Cathedral Gardens, Manchester Ice Village Fri 8 Nov – Mon 5 Jan Bring the family to visit the Ice Village, with new features for 2019, including Manchester’s first ICE bar, a new Ice Rink, Santa’s Grotto and a new Fantasy Adventure Ice Cavern! www.icevillage.co.uk Cheshire Oaks, Ellesmere Port Christmas at Cheshire Oaks Thurs 6 Nov – Mon 23 Dec Fabulous festive fun: Santa’s Grotto, Breakfast with Santa, a Winter Village Christmas Market and the return of Britain’s tallest and Europe’s largest North Pole themed artificial walk-in tree! PLUS for one night only, enjoy Cirque, a Greatest Showman inspired performance on 6th November! www.visitcheshire.com 4 Families Manchester

Chester Zoo The Lanterns Fri 22 Nov – Mon 23 Dec The zoo is transformed into a spectacular wonderland, full of sparkle, illumination and a sprinkling of snow! Keep an eye out for Father Christmas, he could just be around the corner! www.chesterzoo.org Chill Factore, Manchester Christmas at The Chill Factore Sat 16 Nov – Tues 24 Dec Treat all the family to the ultimate Christmas experience with family fun in Mini Moose Land and Snow Park, plus a snowy visit to see Santa himself! www.chillfactore.com Dobbies Garden Centre, Marple Santa’s Grotto Sun 24 Nov – Tues 24 Dec Bring your little ones along to explore the magical setting, be welcomed

by Santa himself and receive a special gift.

Breakfast or Tea with Santa Sun 24 Nov – Tues 24 Dec Make it a Christmas to remember and see your little one’s eyes light up as they tuck into breakfast or tea with Santa. Our popular family events include a hot or cold meal, fun activities and a gift from Santa himself. Suitable for ages 12 and under. www.dobbies.com The Donkey Assisted Therapy Centre, Manchester, M18 8RJ Christmas Fair Sat 7 Dec, 10am – 3pm Santa’s Grotto as well as craft fair, kids activities and refreshments. www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk East Lancs Railway, Bury Santa Specials Sat 30 Nov – Tues 24 Dec A steam train ride with Santa and his team of happy helpers. This year, our elves have been busy spreading even more sparkle, and have come up with some exciting new additions to your festive family day out. www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk Eureka Children’s Museum, Halifax Winter Season at Eureka!

Sat 23 Nov – Mon 23 Dec Extra activities and Christmas magic with decorations and a huge outdoor tree. Meet the friendliest elves around as well as Father Christmas himself in Santa’s Grotto. Watch the festive show ‘Snow Day’ and see Jack Frost help a child experience the magic of snow for the very first time. www.eureka.org.uk Event City Manchester Winter Funland Fri 6 Dec – Sun 5 Jan The UK’s largest indoor Winter Wonderland! Explore the giant funfair, glide across the huge ice rink, then enjoy our wonderful panto and circus before meeting the REAL Santa in his grotto! www.winterfunland.com

Lyme Park, Disley An Audience with Father Christmas Sat 23 Nov – Tues 24 Dec The Chapel will be transformed into a magical, festive space with cosy rugs and cushions to sit on, decorations, and twinkly lights on the tree to get you in the Christmas spirit. After listening to an enchanting Christmas story, children will be invited to receive a gift from Father Christmas himself. www.nationaltrust.org/lyme-park Oddfellows on the Park, Cheadle Santa’s Grotto Tues 24 Dec Step into the magical winter wonderland of Bruntwood Hall, and bring your little ones down to meet Santa in his grotto, whilst treating yourselves to a festive afternoon tea.

Good boys and girls will receive an early Christmas treat from Santa himself! www.oddfellowsonthepark.com Portland Basin Museum, Ashton-under-Lyne Christmas Family Day Sun 8 Dec 11am – 3pm. Characters and activities for the whole family. Visit Father Christmas in the parlour, enjoy festive music and try some Christmas crafts. Tickets to see Father Christmas are £5 and include a gift (tickets are available on the day for timed slots on a first come first served basis).

Sail With Santa!

Mon 9 & Wed 11 Dec Join Santa aboard a boat for a short trip around the canals of Tameside; enjoy songs, stories and even a present. Each ticket includes a snack for the children and a mince pie or cake and hot drink for the grown ups. Numbers strictly limited – booking essential. www.tameside.gov.uk/culture Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Meet Father Christmas at Quarry Bank Sat 30 Nov – Sun 22 Dec Wish lists at the ready! A special half-hour session of festive storytelling and games, including a private family visit to Father Christmas and a gift. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ quarry-bank Ribble Steam Railway, Lancashire Santa Specials Sat 30 Nov – Sun 22 Dec, Weekends only Adults £10 / 6 – 35 months £6 / 3-15 years £10.50. Baileys and a mince pie for children, juice and a chocolate lolly for the little ones.

Christmas carols and a present all children 6months+. www.ribblesteam.org.uk

Stockport Plaza Breakfast with Santa Sat 30 Nov, 7, 14 & 21 Dec Make new friends on shared tables as you enjoy your Breakfast in the Saturdays leading up to Christmas and wait for Santa Claus and his little helpers to arrive. Then head to his grotto to receive a special Christmas Gift for being good boys and girls! www.stockportplaza.co.uk Tatton Park, Knutsford Father Christmas at the Farm Every Sat and Sun in Dec Meet Father Christmas and his elf helpers along with our rare breed farmyard friends. Music from choirs and brass bands, a children’s entertainer and storytelling. Pose on Santa’s sleigh for a photo and visit Aunt Mary in her cosy cottage. www.tattonpark.org Trafford Centre Peter Rabbit’s Magical Christmas Grotto Thurs 14 Nov – Sun 24 Dec Including Jemima Puddle-Duck, Squirrel Nutkin and Mr Tod. The experience includes biscuit decorating and a gift from Father Christmas.

Autism-friendly experiences, featuring smaller groups of visitors, quieter music and specially trained elves also available. Advance online booking is recommended. www.intu.co.uk/traffordcentre Torkington Park, Hazel Grove Winter Wonderland Sat 7 Dec See Santa and his elves in the Grotto, browse the craft stalls, and see Mickey Mouse on the Christmas Train. Live music, choirs and bands, a fair and festive pony rides too.

Touchstones, Rochdale Santa’s Grotto Sat 14 & Sat 21 Dec 10.15am – 4.15pm / 45 min session / £9 per child. Join us for creative fun and meet Santa. Each child will receive a gift to take home. www.link4life.org Woodford Notcutts Garden Centre Santa’s Grotto Sun 17 Nov – Tues 24 Dec Meet Santa and receive a Christmas gift.

Santa Paws Dog Grotto Mon 18 – Thurs 28 Nov All dogs have made the Nice List, whether they are a sock stealer, a furniture chewer or a fence jumper!

Every dog will enjoy some fuss from Santa as well as a lovely Christmas present.

Breakfast or Tea with Santa Sat 30 Nov – Tues 24 Dec A fun-filled mealtime including an activity, meet Santa and receive a special present. www.notcutts.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Gift shopping What’s topping Christmas lists at Giddy Goat Toys?

Down in Didsbury, South Manchester, Santa’s Elves have been busily beavering away ready for his busiest night of the year. The numbers have been crunched, and the Head Elf of Giddy Goat Toys, Amanda Alexander has put together a list of the top five most in demand Christmas presents this year.

First up in the festive top five is the Pets Alive Boppi the Booty Shakin’ Llama (£31.99). Boppi will get the whole family dancing, laughing and shaking their booty this Christmas.

The Brainstorm Remote-Controlled Illuminated Moon Night Light (£24.99) is just the thing for space loving kids.

This brilliantly detailed model of the moon scrolls through 12 beautiful illuminated lunar phases.

L.O.L. Surprise!

Dolls are still topping Christmas lists. Giddy Goat Toys has a selection of L.O.L. dolls to suit all budgets; from L.O.L Surprise!

Fashion Crush at £5.75, L.O.L Surprise! Outfit of the Day at £37.99 to L.O.L Surprise! Surprise House at £260.

Brand new Tonieboxes (£69.95) are a fantastic new way of listening to stories and songs.

Tonieboxes are a really easy and safe way for children to play stories and songs to themselves. Choose from Julia Donaldson classics, plus the Lion King, Jungle Book and a whole host of other brilliant stories and songs.

New this year and the perfect postChristmas dinner game is Pictionary Air. This is a new twist on the classic family drawing game.

Download the Pictionary Air App to

your smart phone or tablet, draw in the air with a light pen and have family and friends in hysterics as they play this quick-draw classic!

Giddy Goat Toys has it all going on this Christmas. There’s everything you could want for under the tree, plus Advent Calendars, stocking fillers and lots of gorgeous cards and wrap!

2 Albert Hill Street, Didsbury, Manchester M20 6RF 0161 445 1097 / www.giddygoattoys.co.uk

Gift & Craft Fairs Fri 8 Nov – Sun 22 Dec

Manchester City Centre Manchester Christmas Markets Food, drinks and crafts from 300 traders in Market Street, Piccadilly Gardens, Albert Square, Exchange Square, New Cathedral Street, King Street and St Ann’s Square. Family Friendly hub at Cathedral Gardens including an Ice Village and Skating Rink.

Sat 9 Nov

Victoria Baths, Manchester Open Day Festive Winter Fair 11am – 4pm. A great opportunity to explore Victoria Baths with fifty specially-selected stalls selling a fantastic variety unique and handmade artwork, jewellery, ceramics and food.

Manchester Cathedral Manchester’s Christmas Craft & Flea 10am – 4pm. Filling the venue inside and out, it’s the best of your city’s local produce & makers, served up with street food and flea market stalls offering vintage & collectables.

Sat 9 & Sun 10 Nov

Tatton Park, Knutsford Christmas Shopping Show 10.30am – 5pm / Free Entry to show 45 exhibitors inside The Tenants Hall. www.tattonpark.org.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Fri 15 – Sun 17 Nov

Tatton Park, Knutsford Foodies Festival Christmas Under 12s FREE / Adults £10-£14 Vintage style singers and Christmas carollers, fun competitions including mince pie & chilli eating contests.

Elves Cookery School for the little ones with classes in gingerbread baking and Christmas cookie decorating. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sat 16 Nov – Sun 22 Dec

Chester City Centre Chester Christmas Markets A handmade, historical, magical experience awaits you with over 70 traditional wooden chalets surrounding the iconic sparkling tree in the heart of the city centre. www.visitcheshire.com

Sat 23 Nov

Parrs Wood Environmental Centre Parrs Wood Christmas Fair 12 – 3pm. Unique gifts, tasty treats and more. www.parrswoodenvironmentalcentre. org.uk

Fri 29 & Sat 30 Nov

Hatch, Manchester M1 7ED Manchester’s First Sustainable Christmas Market Friday 5 – 9pm, Sat 11am – 7pm Over 25 eco-friendly brands offering excellent gift items for all the family.

A wide range of stalls, live entertainment, music, mulled wine and delicious hot food. Plus talks and workshops (including Children’s workshop at 12.30pm on Saturday).

Pick up tickets on the day.

Sat 30 Nov

Society for Abandoned Animals, M32 9UP Christmas Fair 1pm / Adult £1 , Child 50p. Gifts, cards, crafts, decorations, presents, toys, games, raffles, tombolas, refreshments and cakes.

Sun 1 Dec

Shaw Road, Heaton Moor Heatons Christmas Festival 10.30am – 5pm. An annual, local Christmas Festival for families packed full of Christmas Spirit! www.fourheatons.co.uk

Sun 1 Dec

Bramhall Village Light Up Bramhall 12 – 6pm. Enjoy a festive afternoon out with Christmas Markets, live music and Santa’s grotto, culminating in the Christmas Light Switch On! www.ilovebramhall.com

Fri 6 – Sun 8 Dec

Tatton Park, Knutsford Tatton Christmas Shopping Fair 10.30am – 5pm / Free entry to fair A wide range of present ideas, food and drink and Christmas essentials in the Tenants Hall. www.tattonpark.org

Sat 7 Dec

The Donkey Assisted Therapy Centre, Manchester, M18 8RJ Christmas Fair 10am – 3pm. Learn about our herd of donkeys and peruse the local craft stalls in our indoor arena, selling unique items from handcrafted gifts and Christmas crafts to delicious

edible treats. Lots of kids colouring in and craft activities indoors plus tombola, bric-a-brac, raffle, face painting, food and cakes. PLUS Santa’s Grotto. www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk Hemsley House, Salford M4 5PE Christmas Gift & Craft Fair 11am – 3pm. Christmas market – toys, books, cakes, crafts, toiletries, boutique, sweets, tombola.

Refreshments available too.

Sun 8 Dec

Manchester & Cheshire Dogs’ Home M9 5PG Christmas Fair 11am – 4pm Bring your dog and children to meet Santa and enjoy loads of festive fun. www.dogshome.net

Sun 15 Dec

Albert’s, Worsley Christmas Market on Sunday 15th December 2019!

A chance to purchase some last minute Christmas gifts and treats from the exciting stalls. www.alberts-restaurants.com/ worsley

Families Manchester 5

Panto’s & family shows Joseph & the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat Waterside, Sale Tues 5 – Sun 10 Nov Arguably one of the world’s most beloved musicals. www.watersidearts.org The Snowman Manchester Opera House Thurs 7 – Sun 10 Nov The magical live version of Raymond Briggs’ much-loved children’s classic. www.atgtickets.com Diversity: Born Ready – The 10 Year Anniversary Tour Palace Theatre, Manchester Sat 16 & Sun 17 Nov The 2009 Britain’s Got Talent winners continue to amaze! www.atgtickets.com Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever Manchester Opera House Sat 16 & Sun 17 Nov A live show packed full of songs, games and laughter. www.atgtickets.com Jack and the Beanstalk Oldham Coliseum Sat 16 Nov – Sat 11 Jan With two fairies, a magic hen, a GIANT and a pantomime cow, this is a traditional family pantomime with a modern twist – the perfect Christmas treat for kids and not-so-grown-up grown-ups. www.coliseum.org.uk Emily Rising Waterside, Sale Sun 17 Nov Emily wakes up one bright autumn morning to find that her feet can’t touch the ground, and no one can understand why. To everyone’s surprise Emily keeps rising higher and higher. She’s not scared at all – it’s fun being high up. But she’s not coming down…

Suitable for ages 7 – 11. www.watersidearts.org Aladdin Z-Arts, Hulme Wed 20 – Sat 23 Nov Packed with superb song and dance routines, hilarious comedy, dazzling scenery and magical special effects for age 5+. www.z-arts.org Tom Gates Live on Stage Manchester Opera House Wed 20 – Sat 23 Nov A magical trip into Tom’s amazing world – with brilliantly catchy tunes and hilarious performances. www.atgtickets.com

Jack and The Beanstalk Stockport Plaza Fri 29 Nov – Sun 5 Jan Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum a GIANT of a sensational family pantomime comes to The Plaza with a larger than life sensational production for the entire family to enjoy, starring the sensational Ted Robbins alongside Cheryl Fergison !…oh yes it does! www.stockportplaza.co.uk Aladdin Albert Halls, Bolton Sat 30 Nov – Tues 31 Dec A thrilling carpet ride and an adventure of a lifetime as Aladdin flies into the Albert Halls featuring a Celebrity and West End cast. www.alberthalls-bolton.co.uk Dick Whittington Salford Arts Theatre Sun 1 – Tues 31 Dec For children to not-so-grown-up grown ups. Dick Whittington seeks his fame and fortune ....along the way he fights the evil King Rat with the help of his friends. www.salfordartstheatre.com Cinderella Middleton Arena Mon 2 – Tues 31 Dec Have a ball at the most magical pantomime of them all! www.link4life.org SIX The Lowry, Salford Tues 3 Dec – Sat 11 Jan From Tudor queens to pop princesses, the six wives of Henry VIII finally take to the mic to tell their tales, remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a 75-minute celebration of 21st century girl power. Nominated for 5 Olivier Awards including Best New Musical. Age 10+. www.thelowry.com Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs Manna House, Bury Wed 4 – Sat 7 Dec Hi ho hi ho it’s off to Bury we go! A classic Christmas panto treat. www.ticketsource.co.uk

6 Families Manchester

Snow White Manchester Opera House Fri 6 – Sun 29 Dec With Craig Revel Horwood as the ultimate Wicked Queen and an abundance of jaw-dropping dance, side-splitting comedy, sensational special effects and plenty of festive magic. www.atgtickets.com Storymakers: The Snow Queen Octagon Theatre, Bolton Sat 7 Dec An experience full of glitter and good times! Stories read aloud by a professional actor plus live music and creative craft activities. www.octagonbolton.co.uk Dr Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical The Lowry, Salford Tues 10 Dec – Sun 5 January Magnificent sets and costumes inspired

by Dr. Seuss create the whimsical world of Whoville, while Max the Dog narrates the story of the scheming Grinch whose heart is ‘two sizes too small’. Age 3+. www.thelowry.com The Scarecrows’ Wedding Z-arts, Hulme Wed 11 – Sat 14 Dec The heart-warming and awardwinning adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling book.

For ages 3+. www.z-arts.org ComedySportz Improvised Panto Waterside, Sale Fri 13 & Sat 14 Dec Heroes, villains, songs and silliness are guaranteed as the gang improvise a brand new pantomime every show using only your suggestions and a sprinkling of fairy dust. Every adventure will be jam-packed with gags, games and unexpected delights – oh yes it will! For age 7+. www.watersidearts.org Dick Whittington & his cat Forum Theatre, Romiley Fri 13 – Sat 21 Dec www.nktheatre.co.uk

AT !AUDACIOUS CHURCH

Mr Popper’s Penguins Waterside, Sale Wed 27 Nov – Tues 31 Dec Based on the book and direct from a smash hit New York and London West End season. With original songs and performing penguin puppets, it’s a delightful, action packed musical and the perfect family treat! For ages 3 – 11. www.watersidearts.org Marvel Universe Live Manchester Arena Thurs 28 Nov – Sun 1 Dec Marvel fans unite! Marvel Universe LIVE! Super Heroes Assemble is taking the live entertainment experience to a whole new level with an epic show unlike anything you’ve seen before. www.manchestertheatres.com

The Gruffalo’s Child The Lowry, Salford Fri 6 Dec – Sun 12 Jan Follow the Gruffalo’s Child on her adventurous mission in Tall Stories’ enchanting adaptation of the much-loved picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Age 3+. www.thelowry.com

ComedySportz Improvised Panto - Tots Waterside, Sale Sat 14 Dec An adventure jam-packed with gags, games and unexpected delights for ages 6 and under. www.watersidearts.org Family Carols Manchester Cathedral Sat 14 Dec 7.30pm / £10. Join Manchester Cathedral Voluntary Choir for this seasonal concert of Christmas Carols, with a mix both of old favourites and new musical interpretations. www.manchestercathedral.org

The Great Nativity Disaster !Audacious Church, Manchester M3 7BD Sat 14 & Sun 15 Dec Nowhere celebrates Christmas quite like !Audacious Church! If you are looking for the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit with the family, look no further. The “Nativity Disaster” is an unmissable hilarious Christmas show, depicting the nativity story like you have never seen before, with music, dancing and fun that will have the whole family in stitches. Plus the excitement doesn’t stop there. The !Audacious Christmas experience includes live reindeer and beautiful Christmas market stalls. Come hungry and you will not be disappointed with festive food stalls, mince pies and mulled wine.

With 3 shows to choose from, book your tickets TODAY at AudaciousChurch.com/Christmas Sleeping Beauty Millgate Arts Centre, Oldham Sat 14 – Tues 31 Dec With an hilarious script and jaw-dropping special effects! www.millgateartscentre.co.uk

INCLUDING:

TRINITY WAY, MANCHESTER, M3 7BD

LIVE REINDEER CHRISTMAS MARKET FESTIVE FOOD & DRINK “BRINGS DOWN THE HOUSE IN MORE WAYS THAN ONE “ THE HARKED HERALD “I FEARED FOR MY LIFE! NOTHING QUITE LIKE IT.“ THE THYMES

£4 adult

(18+)

£3 child £15 family

Tickets available from

(2 adults and up to 4 children)

AUDACIOUSCHURCH.COM/CHRISTMAS

SAT 14TH 2:30PM & 5:30PM SUN 15TH 4:00PM & 7:00PM

familiesonline.co.uk

Panto’s & family shows Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs Grange Theatre Oldham College Sat 14 Dec – Sun 5 Jan A laugh-a-minute all-singing, all-dancing rollercoaster ride through panto land. www.ticketsource.co.uk The Halle: Christmas Family Concert The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Sun 15 Dec Ruthy the Red-Nosed Reindeer is on a Christmas quest to join the Sleigh Team in time for Santa’s biggest day. Join the Ho Ho Hallé as they take flight on a classical music adventure, featuring many seasonal favourites. www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk Vienna Festival Ballet – The Nutcracker Parr Hall, Warrington Sun 15 Dec Be swept away on a magical adventure in one of the most famous classical ballets of all time.

A delight for audiences of all ages. parrhall.culturewarrington.org Ducklings Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester Tues 17 – Sun 22 Dec A hilarious new show celebrating friendship, failure, and the magic of being young! A fairy-light filled treat with original music and songs for ages 4 - 7. www.royalexchange.co.uk

Snowbabies The Lowry, Salford Tues 17 – Tues 24 Dec A brand-new Christmas adventure especially for children up to age 2.

Filled with interactive, sensory play activities to stimulate and captivate, as well as the Snowbabies story, songs and rhymes. www.thelowry.com Glisten Waterside, Sale Thurs 19 – Sun 22 Dec An interactive performance for babies aged 0-18 months and their grown-ups.

Go on a sparkling and shimmering immersive journey exploring the world of reflective materials wrapped up in an ambient soundscape of evocative yet laid-back music. www.watersidearts.org

The Halle: The Snowman The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Fri 20 & Mon 23 Dec The Hallé’s screening of Raymond Briggs’ classic animated film, The Snowman – an essential part of Christmas – accompanied by the Hallé performing Howard Blake’s magical score live, including a chorister singing ‘Walking in the Air’. www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

≥ CHRISTMAS CONCERTS Friday 20 December, 4pm Monday 23 December, 11am, 1.30pm and 4pm at The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester The Snowman Howard Blake Alien Party on Planet Zum-Zee Steve Pickett/Tony Mitton (based on the picture book Alien Tea on Planet Zum-Zee by Tony Mitton and Guy Parker-Rees)

Ben Palmer CONDUCTOR • Tom Redmond PRESENTER

Tickets (including booking fees) Adults £27.50, Children (aged 17 and under) £17.50 • Family (4 people, minimum 1 child) £69.50

0161 907 9000 • www.halle.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Bring the whole family to the Hallé’s screening of Raymond Briggs’ classic animated film, The Snowman – an essential part of Christmas. The film is accompanied by the full symphony orchestra performing Howard Blake’s magical score live. In the first half of the concert, get on the Hallé spaceship and prepare for an astonishing musical journey with big screen animation.

Families Manchester 7

Christmas Header Z-arts, Hulme Twinkle Twinkle Fri 20 – Sun 22 Dec Brilliant puppetry, magical interaction, and a gorgeous original score. For ages 1 – 3. www.z-arts.org The Big Snowy Christmas The Met, Bury Fri 20 – Tues 24 Dec A glittering, snowy tale with exquisite puppets, enchanting music and a magical snowy setting.

A magical, interactive show especially for little bears aged 3 – 6, and their grown-ups! There’s even a surprise visit from Santa! www.themet.org.uk Aladdin Heywood Civic Theatre Fri 20 – Mon 30 Dec A magical carpet ride specially for Christmas time! www.link4lfe.org

A Christmas Carol in Concert Waterside, Sale Sun 22 Dec A unique retelling of Dickens’ heart-warming tale uses an array of traditional and modern instruments and authentic musical arrangements.

For age 8+. www.watersidearts.org

Grandpa’s Great Escape Live Manchester Arena Wed 1 Jan Many years ago, Grandpa was a World War II flying ace. But when he is sent to old folk’s home Twilight Towers – run by sinister Matron Swine – it’s up to Grandpa and his grandson, Jack, to plot a daring escape. Little do they know the wicked matron is on to them. www.manchester-arena.com

Aladdin Woodford Community Centre SK7 1PS Wed 1 – Sat 4 Jan Brought to you by Cheshire Youth Pantomime Society (CHYPS). Shows at 1.30pm and 7pm and tickets cost £10 - £15. 07910 187583 / tickets@chypspanto.com / www.chypspanto.com

Hot Wheels Monster Truck Live Manchester Arena Fri 3 & Sat 4 Jan Combining Hot Wheels’ iconic jumps and stunts with epic crashing and smashing – this is an exhilarating family entertainment experience for kids of all ages. www.livenation.co.uk / www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Peter Pan and the Panto League The Lowry, Salford Fri 3 – Sun 5 Jan See Peter Pan, Aladdin and Snow White as they team up to save Pantoland from Hook, Abanazar and the Evil Queen to save all the good magic and bring back peace to the kingdom. For all ages. www.thelowry.com Cinderella Parr Hall, Warrington Fri 3 – Sun 12 Jan The classic tale as a classic pantomime. parrhall.culturewarrington.org

The best Christmas family traditions

By Claire Winter

a traditional way to make your Christmas celebration special.

Making homemade Christmas cards can involve the whole family. Sit down with some glitter, stencils, stickers and coloured paper. Play Christmas music to get you in the mood and your kids (and you!) will have great fun making the cards and then and giving them to friends and family.

What do you cherish and remember most clearly about Christmas during your own childhood? Was it the food, the carols and music, going to church, the Christmas tree?

When we look back at our childhood, we don’t remember the gifts that we were given, we recall the things we did as a family that created the most long-lasting memories. Family Christmas traditions adhered to year after year during the festive season are an important part of childhood and are often free or don’t cost much.

Here are our eight best memory-making traditions for families to enjoy this Christmas.

Send homemade Christmas cards Go old school and send some homemade cards. In the modern era of e-Christmas cards, this is

8 Families Manchester

Make an advent calendar Make or buy an advent calendar that can be reused each year.

Instead of putting sweets or toys in it, put in a note for each day about all the different things you love about your child. There would be a full-scale riot in my house if there weren’t a small present or treat in the calendar each day so you may want to consider adding the notes on top of a little present!

Give them a Christmas Eve box Treat your kids to an early gift with a special box that contains festive pyjamas to wear and a Christmas film to watch. If you want to spend less, you could include a festive book or art and craft activity so they can make a special Christmas Eve decoration for the tree.

Prepare a North Pole Christmas breakfast An amazing way to welcome the festive season is by preparing

a North Pole Christmas breakfast for your family on the first day of December. Get the kids involved designing the menu and making the decorations.

Many families combine a North Pole Christmas breakfast with the Elf on the Shelf who joins them for the meal. He then appears every morning doing something mischievous until Christmas day. I think most parents either love or loathe the Elf. I’ll let you decide!

Leave food out for Father Christmas and his friends Leaving food out for the man in red and his friends is another lovely tradition for Christmas Eve. Don’t forget to prepare the reindeer food out of dried oats and biodegradable glitter and have your kids scatter it in the garden on Christmas Eve. We also go out and gather greenery like holly and ivy from our garden to decorate the mantelpieces in our house.

Watch the Queen’s Christmas broadcast The tradition of sending out a royal Christmas message to the public started in 1932 with George V. So gather around the television with your loved ones and a glass of fizz to watch the royal Christmas message from the Queen.

Don’t forget to capture a photo with your family Many families forget to take a family photo on Christmas day.

So, make time to capture a photo with your family each year in front of the Christmas tree striking the same pose. It will be interesting to document how you change each year. You could even put the photos in a special album.

Go to a carol service Even if you are not generally a church goer, going to a Crib Service at your local church on Christmas Eve is a lovely thing to do with your children. Singing carols and listening to the story of the nativity is sure to put everybody in the festive mood and it’s good to take some time to remember the origins of Christmas.

Wrap up Enjoy the special festive memories you make with your family. Your children don’t stay little for long, and it’s great to remind them that Christmas is about being together and not just about presents and treats.

Share your family traditions with us on Facebook (FamiliesManchester), Twitter (FamiliesMancMag) or Instagram using the hashtag #familieschristmas2019.

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Education 3 Reasons to sit a KSOL 11+ Mock Exam The 11+ entrance exam is less than a year away! Ensure that your child is familiar with not only the format and content of the paper, but also the atmosphere of these events KSOL’s expert 11+ tutors share 3 important reasons why your child should sit a KSOL 11+ mock exam: 1 – Exam environment. As most Year 5 children will not have experienced formal exams, getting your child accustomed to the 11+ exam format will provide an air of familiarity and comfort on the real day.

2 – Identify areas for improvement. KSOL mock exams gradually increase in difficulty throughout the year.

This gives you the added benefit of finding out exactly where your child sits with their 11+ preparation at each pivotal

stage. Receive a breakdown of your child’s performance within individual subject areas and also a group ranking in relation to others.

3 – Practice makes perfect! A child who has had plenty of practice with the unique format of the 11+ exam and its style of questions will feel much more reassured and confident on the big day.

KSOL has over 16 years of Award-Winning experience in preparing children for the 11plus.

Contact them on 0161 327 2003 or visit: ksol.co.uk for more information on their 2020 GL & CEM 11+ Mock Exams in Trafford.

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Education Changes to how schools are assessed by Ofsted – what parents need to know

By Ruth Lowe

As a parent choosing schools for your child, you are very likely at some stage to take a look at the Ofsted reports of those on your shortlist, to see how they performed at their latest inspection. What you may not know though is that the way in which schools are assessed and reported on by Ofsted has recently changed. Here is the low-down on these changes and what parents need to know about them.

Earlier this year, Ofsted held a consultation into their inspection process. It wanted to know if it was delivering the right information to help schools improve, while also providing parents with a clear view of how well a school is performing in delivering a good education to its students. Interestingly, this consultation resulted in the most responses that Ofsted has ever received and included feedback from over 600 mums and dads – a clear indication that parents value Ofsted assessments as an important part of the process of deciding which school is best for their child.

Currently, Ofsted gives schools a grading of one to four; One is ‘outstanding;’ two is ‘good;’ three is ‘requires improvement;’ and four is ‘inadequate.’ Although these categories are not changing, the new assessment framework has been updated in the following ways and came into effect from September 2019:

10 Families Manchester

Inspection reports will be shorter and easier to digest. The aim is to give parents “the key information they need to know about a school and a sense of how it feels to be a pupil there.”

Schools will be assessed in a new ‘quality of education’ category, putting the emphasis back on the quality of the curriculum being taught rather than exam results. This change aims to reduce the pressure felt by teachers who have been criticised in the past for ‘teaching to the test’ rather than covering the curriculum in a more balanced and manageable way.

There will also be a new ‘personal development’ assessment which will look at how a school helps its pupils to develop character, resilience and values so that children are well-equipped to succeed in life.

A separate assessment on ‘behaviour and attitudes’ will be included. Ofsted will look at whether or not school leaders tolerate bullying or harassment of pupils and staff, as well as whether they deal with behavioural problems swiftly and effectively while maintaining a calm environment.

Inspections of previously graded ‘good’ schools were carried out over a period of one day. This inspection period will now be extended to two days (except in the case of smaller schools with less than 150 pupils).

Any schools found to be

‘off-rolling’ pupils are likely to be judged ‘inadequate.’ ‘Off-rolling’ is when a school removes a pupil without using a permanent exclusion. In these instances, removing the child is considered to be in the best interest of the school, rather than the pupil. It is a controversial practice as it could also include pressuring a parent to remove their child from the school roll. This practice is not at all encouraged or supported by Ofsted.

These changes to the Ofsted inspection framework are a positive step forward in providing parents with more focussed, concise and rounded information about local schools. Schools will be rewarded with a rating that takes into account the above assessment criteria and also acknowledges where Head Teachers and teachers are working under difficult circumstances (for example in areas with high levels

of deprivation or poverty).

Of course, although there is considerable value in Ofsted reports, when choosing a school it’s also vital to visit, preferably with your child, speak to parents of children already there, and understand the ethos and ambitions that the school has for those in its care. In addition, parents can also look at Ofsted’s ‘Parent View’ results online at www.parentview.ofsted.gov.uk, where those with children already at school share their views for the benefit of other parents.

Ruth Lowe works for the charity Parentkind which supports, engages and champions parents in education. For more information about choosing schools, Ofsted inspections and how you as a parent can participate in your child’s learning, visit www.parentkind.org.uk

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Parents’ place Nighttime nappies to no nappies

By Alicia Eaton

Every parent looks forward to being able to throw away night-time nappies and pull-ups for good. Try these simple steps towards reaching this milestone.

Words work Explain to your child that soon they’ll be able to keep themselves dry all night and won’t need nappies/pull-ups. Putting the idea into your child’s mind

triggers important thinking processes necessary to become dry at night.

Regularly use phrases like: “Pretty soon, you’ll stop needing these at night-time….”

Step by step Explain they will need to visit the bathroom instead. Walk through the steps they’ll take and practise this several times, telling them you will leave lights on so they can see their way easily.

Deeper sleep Avoid leaving night-lights on in the bedroom. A dark bedroom promotes deeper sleep patterns.

This might be enough to ensure your child sleeps through without needing the toilet.

Plan ahead Put a date in the diary and let

Earn some extra cash All you need to do is drop a pre-determined number of magazines to local schools, leisure centres, clubs, classes and selected shops – they’ll be expecting you!

You’ll need to have your own transport and be available at the If you could do with a bit of beginning of the month in January, pocket money, then why not join March, May, July, September the Families distribution team? and November. Ideal for someone We’re looking for a local mum or who can do this during the school dad who can help us deliver our day – and it will only take you a fantastic magazine to various couple of days. If you’re points across Stockport and interested, please email editor@ Urmston. familiesmanchester.co.uk today!

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your child know when you will stop using nappies/pull-ups.

These actually prevent children learning how to take control because their absorbency means your child’s skin doesn’t feel wet.

Accidents Use an absorbent bed mat in between two layers of sheets. If your child is wet, remove the top layer and use the dry bed underneath.

Declutter Ensure the bedroom floor is clutter-free so your child can easily move around at night.

Drinks Avoid drinks one hour before bedtime, but don’t restrict fluids during the day as this could make your child constipated – a common cause of bedwetting.

Think food Avoid fizzy drinks, sugary foods, milk and fruit such as strawberries, grapes and melon at night-time as these affect the bladder.

Avoid rewards and bribes They are a distraction and it will be doubly disappointing for your child if they’re not successful one night. Focus your child on learning how to stay dry at night.

Keep track Track dry and wet nights during your training period so you can figure out what the cause of wet nights might be.

Alicia Eaton is a trained psychotherapist and author of Stop Bedwetting in Seven Days published by Practical Inspiration Publishing. For more information, visit www.stop-bed-wettingin-7-days.com

Mothers should do most childcare Surprisingly, according to the British Social Attitudes Survey carried out by the National Centre for Social Research, around half of people (51%) in the UK think that the best option for a family with a pre-schooler is for the mother to do most of the childcare.

When deciding how a family with a pre-school age child should best organise work and family life, only 16% of those surveyed favour arrangements that represent an equal split of childcare and work between parents.

32% think mothers should work part-time and fathers full-time,

19% think mothers should stay at home and fathers should work full-time, 9% think that the mother and father should both work part-time and 6% favour both parents working full-time.

Nancy Kelley, Deputy Chief Executive at the National Centre for Social Research, comments: “Despite considerable social change, and strong policy intervention, we still have some way to go in supporting women to flourish in their careers and men to take a more active role in caring for children.”

More info: www.natcen.ac.uk

Families Manchester 11

Parents’ place Encouraging a growth mindset in your child

By Gabrielle Nash

Children are like sponges, aren’t they? They soak up every new thing, whether it’s a new word or the latest trend. But are they learning new things in the right way? You may not have given it much thought, but the way we speak to our children can have a huge impact on how they learn.

If you’re new to the phrase ‘growth mindset,’ don’t be put off. This simple concept could help both you and your child.

Developed by Carol Dweck, an American Professor of Psychology, the ‘growth mindset’ ethos has become increasingly popular in schools globally. Dweck believed that by changing their ‘mindset’ anyone (children included) could increase their abilities and improve their intelligence solely through dedication and hard work.

Many of us battle with a ‘fixed mindset.’ For example, the belief that if we aren’t naturally good at languages, that won’t change and therefore we shouldn’t try to learn them. But

by shifting to a ‘growth mindset,’ we can actually motivate ourselves to succeed.

In the last 10 years more and more schools have embraced the theory of growth mindset into their teaching ethos, not placing so much focus on the natural gifts children have but instead focussing on the work they put in.

Integral to growth mindset is the understanding that making mistakes is okay. It’s natural to encounter challenges and make mistakes when learning so many new things. However, failure can sometimes dent a child’s confidence. By embracing mistakes and failures, teachers can give children the reassurance that it’s okay to struggle, rather than the idea that mistakes and failings are wrong.

Growth mindset means praising a child for effort and not natural talent. Teachers can adjust how they give feedback to motivate a child to continue to work hard. If a child

does an impressive painting, instead of praising the child’s natural talent, the teacher can instead praise the effort, process and commitment put into creating that painting. A child that is praised solely for their natural ability may not believe that to be attainable again, so may not try. Yet a child who gets noticed for the effort they put in will feel able to repeat that success.

Tom Dobson, an education expert at Leeds Beckett University says encouraging children to take an active role in self-assessment is key to using growth mindset in schools.

“Rather than the teacher telling children what they have achieved and what they now need to achieve, what we call “assessment for learning” can promote independence in pupils as they become aware of their own next steps for progress.”

Growth mindset can be used at home too. There’s a tendency in modern parenting towards over-praising children, to protect them and their precious self-esteem. While it is important to be positive, the growth mindset theory suggests that instead of heaping praise at every opportunity, we should rephrase the praise to encourage development.

Encourage your child to talk about the struggles they encountered today. Getting them to understand that it’s okay

to find a task or activity tricky is central to having a growth mindset, because that’s how we learn.

We exercise our bodies but what about our brains?

Encourage your children to see their brain as a muscle that needs exercising; the more they use it the stronger it becomes.

Refer to the different things they learn as light bulbs; each time they learn a new skill, they turn on a new lightbulb. Each time they practice it, the light bulb gets bigger and brighter.

All of which contribute to a stronger brain.

When your child one is struggling with something, whether it’s a physical or mental task, try to motivate them to not give up. The mantra “try, try and try again” really can have incredible results. Not only does this develop their growth mindset but it also builds resilience, something so vital for the grown-up world.

Don’t forget though, this isn’t just for your children. If you’re facing a challenge whether at home or work, try applying some of these principles to it. You might surprise yourself whilst setting a great example to your kids at the same time!

For more parenting tips and advice, read Gabrielle’s blog @thelondonishmum

The Tiger Who Came to Tea hits the screen this Christmas The Tiger Who Came to Tea, the classic children’s book by Judith Kerr, will come to TV this Christmas adapted as a half-hour animated film for Channel 4.

It will feature a star-studded cast of voices including Benedict Cumberbatch, David Oyelowo, Tamsin Greig, David Walliams and Paul Whitehouse.

The role of Sophie will be played by 7-year-old Clara Ross, who will be making her TV debut.

For anyone that doesn’t know the book, it tells the tale

12 Families Manchester

of the tiger that shows up at young Sophie’s front door and proceeds to eat the family out of house and home, even going so far as to drink all of the water out of the taps, before declaring: “Thank you for my nice tea. I think I’d better go now,” and departing.

Chloe Tucker, Commissioning Executive, Channel 4 Drama said: “The Tiger Who Came to Tea is a timeless classic, and we hope this film will capture the same special place in every family’s imagination watching it.

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Families Manchester 13

Parents’ place

What’s on

Record low sudden infant deaths

Wed 11 Dec

Sudden infant deaths, the syndrome in which otherwise seemingly healthy babies die unexpectedly before their first birthday, has dropped to its lowest level on record, according to a report from the Office of National Statistics (ONS).

Records of what used to be called ‘cot death’ began in 2004, when the rate was 0.5 deaths per 1,000 births (i.e. one

in 2,000 infants). The 2017 figure is 0.27 per 1,000 births – more like one in 4,000 – meaning the figure has almost halved since the records began.

The ONS said the fall in unexplained deaths may be due to factors such as fewer expectant mothers smoking and more awareness of safer sleeping practices.

The term ‘cot death’ is no longer used, due to the suggestion that sudden infant death can only happen when a baby is in its cot. The term now used is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome or SIDS. More info: www.ons.gov.uk

Measles: one in seven 5-year olds not protected One in seven 5-year olds may not be protected against potentially life threatening measles, Public Health England (PHE) has warned.

PHE has revealed that about 30,000 children may have started primary school with no protection against measles, mumps and rubella, while 90,000 may have had only the first of the two vaccines necessary for protection.

There were 230 cases of measles in England in the first quarter of 2019, many linked to

visiting European countries during holiday periods. As a result of these outbreaks, the UK has now lost its measles-free status, just three years after the virus was eliminated.

PHE is urging all parents to check their child’s Red Book to make sure there is a record of two MMR doses and the 4-in-1 booster vaccine. If not, parents should contact their GP practice to arrange any further vaccinations.

More info: www.nhs.uk/conditions/ vaccinations/nhs-vaccinationsand-when-to-have-them/

New Sleepy Tales for children The book publisher Penguin Random House has collaborated with The Children’s Sleep Charity to create collections of Sleepy Tales audiobooks designed to help children relax before bedtime.

For children ages 3 to 6 years, Ladybird Sleepy Tales and for children aged 7+, Puffin Sleepy Tales, they are stories with a difference. Part soundscape, part descriptive narrative, they use relaxing sounds and soothing narrators’ voices to conjure calming settings and landscapes to help children feel calm and positive at the end of the day.

14 Families Manchester

Each tale is 15 minutes long and has been created to be interesting enough to hold children’s attention, but not too exciting.

Sleepy Tales are designed to become part of a child’s bedtime routine, and can be listened to before or after reading a bedtime story. Children can listen on their own, or with a parent, as a way to wind down.

More info: www.penguin.co.uk/books

The Donkey Assisted Therapy Centre, Manchester, M18 8RJ Manchester Candlelight Evening 6 – 7.30pm. A wonderful evening with the donkeys for all the family! Join in our Christmas carol service, supported by the local primary school choir, Ukulele band and traditional Nativity.

An opportunity to light a candle of remembrance. No booking required. www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk

Fri 8 Nov – Mon 5 Jan

Cathedral Gardens, Manchester Ice Village Manchester Bring the family to visit the Ice Village, with new features for 2019, including Manchester’s first ICE bar, a new Ice Rink, Santa’s Grotto and a new Fantasy Adventure Ice Cavern! www.icevillage.co.uk

Wed 13 Nov – Wed 8 Jan

Dunham Massey, Altrincham One Snowy Night Brrr! It’s cold in Percy’s park so the animals have come inside to warm up. Can you find them? Celebrating 30 years since the release of Nick Butterworth’s One Snowy Night. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunhammassey

Wed 27 Nov – Sun 22 Dec

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Reindeer Winter Walk Take a walk at Quarry Bank this winter and see if you can spot the reindeer hidden around the gardens. How many can you find? Once you’ve found them all, head to the Backsheds in the Upper Garden to collect your sticker and be in with the chance to win a special reindeer prize. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarrybank

Wed 27 Nov – Sun 22 Dec

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Christmas at Quarry Bank A variety of festive activities for all ages. Step in the Apprentice House to enjoy a Christmas tour and learn how the apprentices would have experienced the season. Then head down to Quarry Bank House to discover a Georgian Christmas. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank

Fri 6 – Sun 15 Dec

Deansgate, Manchester Christmas Lights Switch On

Oldham Parish Church Christmas Tree Festival More than 65 individually decorated trees for you to browse and get inspiration from. Don’t forget, the café will be open throughout the festival so you can warm up with a cuppa.

Fri 15 Nov – Sun 22 Dec

Fri 13 Dec

Thurs 14 Nov

Dunham Massey, Altrincham Christmas at Percy’s Snuggle up for festive tales from Percy’s park before enjoying a hot chocolate and biscuit. Take home a special gift in this lovely alternative to a Father Christmas visit. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunhammassey

Sat 16 Nov

Broadstone Mill Shopping Outlet, Stockport Festive Family Fun Day 12 – 3pm. Unique gifts, handmade crafts, fresh produce, freshly brewed coffee and yummy Streetfood. Enjoy pony rudes, bouncy castle, a fashion show and much more. www.broadstonemillshoppingoutlet.co.uk

Sat 16 & Sun 17 Nov

Manchester Central Digital Kids Show TV Stars, the latest family games, live shows, fair rides, giant inflatables, ice skating, slime making, giant costume gameplay and more! www.digitalkidsshow.co.uk

Sun 24 Nov

Parliament Square, Oldham Christmas Lights Switch On Meet TV favourite and CBeebies’ big friendly dog Hey Duggee at intervals throughout the day (1pm, 2pm and 3pm). The switch-on celebrations start from 5pm followed by a firework display to finish the evening off with a bang.

Tues 26 Nov – Sun 5 Jan

Tatton Park, Knutsford A Fairytale Christmas Mansion Enter a magical Christmas Mansion themed with all of your favourite fairy tales and decorated with special lighting and stunning decorations.

Seasonal music and a special festive treat awaiting you at the end! www.tattonpark.org.uk

Tatton Park, Knutsford Christmas Concert at the Mansion 7pm / Adults £25, Students/Under 18s £15. A traditional festive concert in the grand Tenants’ Hall; this year based on a fairy tale theme.

Includes a tour of the mansion at 7pm, a glass of winter punch and a concert of classical masterpieces, carols and songs at 8pm. www.tattonpark.org

Sat 14 Dec

Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre, Macclesfield Family Stargazing 6 – 9pm / £9.50. Calling all budding young stargazers for an unmissable opportunity to get started in astronomy. Enjoy a journey around space in the inflatable Planetarium, be surprised by the exciting experiments in the science show and get hands-on with telescopes and binoculars as you learn to navigate the night sky. www.jodrellbank.net/events

Tues 17 & Weds 18 Dec Tatton Park, Knutsford Deer Feed and Trailer Ride 9.30 – 10.30am / £10 per person / Age 4+. Take a trailer ride with the Rangers to watch the daily deer feed. Get a close look at hundreds of deer feeding in their beautiful natural setting. www.tattonpark.org

Mon 23 Dec

Gulliver’s World, Warrington Festive Fireworks A brilliant family day out on park exploring their huge selection of rides and attractions. www.gulliversfun.co.uk

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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

What’s on

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