Families Manchester Issue 66 Nov/Dec 17

Manchester In this issue: Christmas Special the definitive guide to all things magical!

Issue 66 Nov/Dec 2017

familiesonline.co.uk

News Parents eligible for childcare compensation

Thousands of parents who have missed out on Tax-Free Childcare due to technical problems with the Childcare Service website may be able to claim compensation from the Government.

The Childcare Service website, which is run by HMRC, has been plagued with technical glitches since it went live in

April, affecting parents’ ability to register for Tax-Free Childcare and 30 hours childcare.

In order to receive 30 hours free childcare in September, eligible parents needed to have received a code from HMRC by 31 August and taken it to their childcare provider to secure a place.

New guidance published on the gov.uk website under the heading ‘Childcare Service Compensation’ states that: ‘If you’ve been unable to access Tax-Free Childcare through your childcare account for technical reasons, you may be able to claim compensation.’

For more information call HMRC on 0300 123 4097 or visit www.gov.uk/guidance/ childcare-service-compensation

A Georgian Christmas at Quarry Bank

Rich and poor celebrated the festive season in very different ways in Georgian times; even their mince pies had different ingredients! At Quarry Bank, you can discover these past traditions as you celebrate with the wealthy cotton mill owning Greg family, and join in with the humble festivities of the child apprentice workers.

In the Apprentice House, it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas as the apprentices set about making traditional cakes. If you’re really good you Next issue: January/February 2018 Circulation: 25,000 copies of Families Manchester are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selectedshops 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 2 Families Manchester

might just get to try a piece, before you settle down for festive storytelling. Then you can head over to Quarry Bank House to join in with the sophisticated celebrations in the Greg family home.

And don’t miss seeing Father Christmas on your visit. Book onto ‘Meet Father Christmas’ to play festive games and have a go at Christmas crafts, then visit Father Christmas to tell him all about your wishlist. On Fridays, little ones aged 6 months to 5 years are invited to meet Father Christmas in special baby and toddler sessions.

‘A Georgian Christmas’ is included in the Quarry Bank admission price. ‘Meet Father Christmas’ has a separate charge and must be booked in advance at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ quarry-bank Advertising/artwork: advertising@familiesmanchester.co.uk Events, diary dates, what’s on: events@familiesmanchester.co.uk Cover Photography: Bury Grammar Schools www.burygrammar.co.uk Design: WITH Creative, Congleton. www.withcreative.co.uk Print: Bishops Printers, Walton Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO6 1TR Tel: 023 9233 4900 www.bishops.co.uk

For the love of Sci-Fi

Boldly going where no other convention has gone before!

Get up front and close with the world’s biggest actors including William Shatner, David Hasselhof and Dolph Lundgren, and experience jaw dropping life size prop and set builds along with so much more.

For just £22 for adults and

£13.20 for children (family group deals available) you can also enjoy a Cosplay competition, magic and illusion shows, live music, giant funfair, merchandise traders, set re-creations, celebrity Q&A’s, lightsabre training, droid displays, gaming zones and an artist’s corner.

The convention is being held on Sat 2 & Sun 3 December at Bowlers Exhibition Centre, Trafford Park. For a full list of what’s available, go to www.fortheloveofsci-fi.com and www.facebook.com/ FTLOSF

Digital Kids Show is back!

Event City in Trafford Park plays host to this year’s Digital Kids show from Sat 18 – Mon 20 November.

There’s something for everyone including live shows, Minecraft competitions, family

gaming, the latest tech toys plus family games and activities including an ice skating rink!

And you can meet your favourite You Tubers too.

Tickets cost £25 (family options available) and are all-inclusive for the full day (10am – 5pm).

Under 2s go free.

10% discount on tickets for Families readers when you use the code FAMMANC10 online. www.digitalkidsshow.co.uk

‘All Different, All Equal’ Anti-Bullying Week runs from 13 to 17 November this year and the theme, ‘All Different, All Equal’ aims to promote difference and equality in schools.

The idea is to help children and young people celebrate what makes them, and others, unique and help them understand why it’s important that every child feels included at school and able to be themselves without fear of bullying.

The Anti-Bullying Alliance

will be supporting schools with a range of free activities to help them take action to prevent bullying and create safe environments for their pupils.

Anti-Bullying Week will also see the ‘Power for Good’ award made to teachers, school support staff and youth workers who go beyond the call of duty to help children with issues such as bullying, relationships, family life and mental health.

To get involved visit www.anti-bullyingalliance. org.uk

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 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

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News Christmas Foodies Festival

Foodies Festival is bringing the Christmas spirit to Tatton Park in Cheshire from Fri 17 – Sun 19 November for the first time with a 3 day festive feast.

Take home recipes and top tips from MasterChef winners and top local chefs who will be cooking up their festive favourites in the Chef’s Theatre or fantastic bakers and top patisserie chefs who will be baking up show-stopping cakes and treats in the Cakes and Desserts Theatre.

Learn all the skills to become the ultimate host this Christmas at the 12 Top Tip festive masterclasses, get merry with Craft Beer, Wine and Champagne masterclasses in

the Drinks Theatre, discover your new favourite tipple at Gin Alley and browse for Christmas gifts in the artisan market. Bring the kids along to the Elf’s Cookery School, taste flavours of the world at Street Food Avenue, indulge in award-winning treats at Pudding Hall, or enjoy Christmas carols and music from Cheshire’s most exciting unsigned bands on the Live Music Stage. With a luxury VIP area, a vintage tea room and a Champagne Ski Bar, Foodies Festival is the only place to kick off the festive season. Enjoy 30% off tickets with the code FOODIES30 at www.foodiesfestival.com.

Go Wild in the Woods Get outdoors this autumn and help celebrate National Tree Week, (25 November to 3 December), with City of Trees’ downloadable guides. The Go Wild in the Woods activity pack includes ideas for creating forest art, making bird feeders out of pinecones, building bug hotels and making journey sticks.

Research has shown that engaging with nature is good for children’s health and wellbeing, as well as their education – helping them to develop language around nature… so let’s all Go Wild in familiesonline.co.uk

the Woods and have fun!

And, if you take a picture whilst you are out and about exploring– and share it on Twitter or Instagram using #gowildinthewoods – City of Trees will pick two winners who will each receive a family pass to the Treetop Trek at Heaton Park. The runner up will receive a goody bag filled with a mini beast explorer kit, Temperament of Trees book, a hedgehog mini buddy and wildflower seeds.

Download your free activity sheet and ‘Where to go’ guide at www.cityoftrees.org/families

WIN a Family Ticket to Dinosaurs in the Wild at Event City, Manchester!

Dinosaurs in the Wild gives you the opportunity to go on the voyage of a lifetime. Board the time machine and your adventure begins – in seconds, pioneering technology will transport you back 67 million years to see living dinosaurs with your very own eyes.

Ride across the jaw-dropping Cretaceous plains, where you come face to face with the most awesome creatures ever to live. Then visit an incredible research station where scientists are studying dinosaurs in the past. See prehistoric animals in cages, watch babies hatching, and witness an autopsy on a giant dinosaur. Learn amazing facts about dinosaurs – even plunge your hands into piles of poo to discover more about their diet! Be astonished by panoramic views of prehistoric life all around you, and witness mighty creatures like Tyrannosaurus and Triceratops roaming free in their natural environment.

Get closer to dinosaurs than you ever imagined possible – right at the heart of the action! Prepare to be amazed!

Enter our competition now – your seat on our time machine awaits! The prize is a family ticket (2 adults, 2 children under 16 – not recommended for under 3s) for any performances until 19 December (closed on Mondays). Simply send an email with the word DINOSAUR in the title to caryl@familiesmanchester.co.uk.

Competition closes Sunday 19 November, and the winner will be drawn on Monday 20 November. Good luck! www.dinosaursinthewild.com

WIN a Family Ticket to Winter Wonderland!

Yes it’s back! The UK’s biggest indoor Christmas Theme Park returns to Event City from 9 December to 1 January and we’ve got a Family Ticket up for grabs!

With rides and attractions galore, the family can have four hours of nonstop fun and entertainment.

You can visit Santa’s house, transported from the North Pole to the city, see real reindeer, and have a s-elfie taken with elves and fairies. Enjoy the Christmas Circus and try out your own circus skills, or build models in the interactive building block zone.

All you have to do to win this fabulous prize is to send an email with the word WONDERLAND in the title to caryl@familiesmanchester.co.uk. The competition closes on Thursday 30 November, and we’ll draw the winner on Friday 1 December.

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Where’s Santa?

Bolton Hospice Christmas Fair Sat 25 Nov, 11am – 2pm. Visit Santa in his grotto and get a special Christmas gift. Also loads of stalls, games, family entertainment and a special guest appearance. www.boltonhospice.org.uk

Santa’s a busy man but there are plenty of opportunities for you to get up close and personal with him and make sure he’s got your letter!

Arndale Centre, Manchester Santa’s Grotto Thurs 16 Nov – Sun 24 Dec. £5.50. (includes a festive Teddy Bear). Booking essential. www.manchesterarndale.com Bents Garden Centre, Glazebury Santa’s Arrival Sat 11 Nov, 10am. See Santa arrive in style to kick off the Christmas season. www.bents.co.uk Bolholt Hotel, Bury Annabelle’s Challenge Lunch With Santa Sun 17 Dec, 1 – 4pm / £10. Bring the little ones along to enjoy lunch with Santa.

A Christmas themed room with a hot and cold buffet, children’s activities, disco, party games, special guests and party bags.

Brookside Garden Centre, Poynton Breakfast with Santa Sat 9, 16 & 23 Dec, 9.30am / Sun 24 Dec, 10am, £9.95 per child.

Supper with Santa Thurs 21 Dec, 5pm, £10.95 per child.

Enjoy a freshly cooked meal, as well as an enchanted story. Write your very own letter to Santa and colour in a Christmas picture. Children who have been extra good this year will get a gift from Santa to take home! Booking essential. www.klondyke.co.uk Cheshire Reindeer Lodge & Christmas Tree Farm, Cheshire Oaks Santa’s Grotto & Reindeer Lodge Weekends from Sat 25 Nov, weekdays from Thurs 21 Dec Meet and feed the reindeer, reindeer talks, donkey and fairground rides, Elf stage show and visit to the grotto for a gift. 01244 646045 / www.cheshirereindeer.co.uk Chester Zoo The Lanterns at Chester Zoo Fri 24 – Sun 26 Nov, Fri 1 – Sun 3 Dec, Fri 8 – Sun 10 Dec, Fri 17 – Sun 17 Dec, Wed 20 – Sat 23 Dec, Wed 27 – Sat 30 Dec As twilight falls across Chester Zoo a magical Christmas sorting office comes to life. The zoo will be

transformed into an enchanting world full of illumination and spellbinding theatrical adventure. The lantern route will be filled to the brim with sacks of lantern toys and boxes of lantern presents piled high. Father Christmas and his helpers will be hard at work ensuring that all of the Christmas wishes can come true.

Booking essential.

01244 380280 / www.chesterzoo.org

Chill Factore, Trafford Quays Santa’s Grotto Weekends from Sat 11 Nov and daily from Sat 2 Dec – Sun 24 Dec Visit Santa in his grotto surrounded by real snow, sparkling trees, glistening lights and chattering elves. All visits will be combined with some play time in the Snow Park (Age 4+) or Mini Moose Land (Under 4s. www.chillfactore.com Dunham Massey, Altrincham Christmas at Dunham Massey Adult £16, Child £10, Under 5s free, booking advised. Follow the mile long sparkling path that winds its way through the historic woodland in a magical after dark experience. Father Christmas sees you on your way through twinkling tunnels, over a swaying lawn of fibre optic colour and beside glowing waterside reflections.

0871 230 1553 / www.nationaltrust. org.uk/dunham-massey East Lancashire Railway, Bury Santa Specials Weekends from 25 Nov – 17 Dec, and Thurs 21 – Sun 24 Dec Take a special steam ride with Santa, his happy helpers and an onboard magician as they make their way through the carriages with a gift for each child. Biscuit and juice for children and a mince pie and festive tipple for adults!

Hunt for hidden treasure in Bury Transport Museum with the Great Christmas Treasure Hunt. The ride takes you from Bury to Rawtenstall and back through the beautiful Irwell Valley. Booking essential. www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk Event City, Trafford Park WinterWonderland - Santa meet and greet Sat 9 Dec – Mon 1 Jan The UK’s largest indoorWinterWonderland with loads of rides, entertainment and shows, and a chance to meet Santa (not a full grotto experience, but an efficient meet and greet system). www.winterwonderlandmanchester.com Greater Manchester Fire Service Museum, Rochdale Christmas Open Day Sun 3 Dec. A special visit expected from Santa. www.gmfsmuseum.org.uk The Grove, Hazel Grove SK7 6AA Xmas Disney Party Sat 16 Dec, 1pm & 5pm / Adult. £5, Child £10 (includes snack box), early booking essential. With all your favourite Disney characters performing all your favourite songs, as well as a Santa’s Grotto (including free gift). In aid of MIND. www.wegottickets.com

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Holy Rood Church, Swinton Christmas Fair Sat 18 Nov / 11am – 2pm / 50p. Father Christmas makes an early Christmas visit. Enjoy a variety of festive stalls, games, music and Christmas cheer!

Everyone welcome.

Hamleys, Trafford Centre Meet Father Christmas Tues 21 & Wed 22 Nov, Weekends from Sat 25 Nov – Sun 16 Dec, Daily from Mon 11 Dec – Sun 24 Dec (excl Wed 20) / Ages 2 – 8, booking essential. Join Father Christmas and his loveable elves for fun, magic and theatre. Take part in seasonal games and activities, spend time with Father Christmas and receive an extra special gift bag to take home. www.hamleys.com High Legh Garden Centre, Knutsford Santa’s Grotto Weekends from Sat 25 Nov – Sun 24 Dec Child: £7.95, Adult £1.50. Travel on the magical train to visit Santa in his Grotto and choose a present from his Toy Store. www.klondyke.co.uk Lightoaks Park, Salford Christmas Cracker 1 – 4pm / Free. Visit Santa in his grotto, sing along to carols with a brass band, indulge on delicious mince pies and mulled wine, and be in the chance of winning exciting prizes in a festive raffle. If you can, bring along non perishable food items which can be donated to Salford Central food bank.

Littleborough Square Christmas Lights Switch On Sat 2 Dec, 2 – 6pm. Santa and his elves will be there as well as music, dance and a fun fair. www.rochdaleonline.co.uk Little Lever Village Christmas Fair Sun 3 Dec, 11am – 3pm. A FREE Santa, along with music, raffles, shopping stalls and face painting.

Plus you can post your letters to Santa in the special mailbox. www.facebook.com/ llcommunityevents Lyme Park, Disley An Audience with Father Christmas Every Fri – Sun from Fri 24 Nov – Sun 24 Dec / £9 per child, booking essential. Meet Father Christmas, Mother Christmas and their helpers in the Chapel. Listen to a story and receive a special present too!

Normal park admission also applies.

0344 249 1895 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ lyme-park Philips Park, Manchester Santa’s Grotto Fri 24 Nov – Mon 1 Jan / £10 per child, booking advised. A magical, fully decorated, timber grotto experience.

Meet the man from Lapland as he takes a break from flying around the globe delivering Xmas gifts. Every child will be given a present to take away with them as a souvenir of their experience. www.magicallantern.uk

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Where’s Santa?

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Meet Father Christmas Sat 2 & Sun 3 Dec, Sat 9 & Sun 10 Dec, Sat 16 & Sun 17 Dec. A special half-hour session of festive activities, including a private family visit to Father Christmas and a gift. £9 per child, suitable for up to age 10, booking essential. Baby and Toddler sessions Fri 1, 8 & 15 Dec (ages 6 months – 5 years) include a storytelling and play session with the visit to Father Christmas. 0344 2491895 / www.nationatrust.org.uk/quarry-bank Ribble Steam Railway Santa Steam A perfect family get together, sprinkled with some festive fun. Father Christmas will bring you your personal Christmas present while you take a trip on this steam heated train. Enjoy light seasonal refreshments and then visit the museum and take a ride on the miniature indoor railway. Booking essential. www.ribblesteam.org.uk St Ann’s Hospice, Little Hulton Christmas Fair Sun 19 Nov, 12 – 3pm / Adults £1, children free. Bursting with festive fun, this fair includes visit by Father Christmas, children’s Christmas crafts, cakes, raffle and music.

St Margaret’s Church, Prestwich Christmas Fair Sat 18 Nov, 10am. A grotto and a visit from the big man, along with all your favourite stalls, raffle and café.

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St Mark’s Church, Worsley Christmas Fair Sat 25 Nov / 10am – 2pm / Adult £1, children free. Festive stalls, games, music, a visit by Father Christmas, and plenty of Christmas gift ideas.

Refreshments and lunches served in Church Hall. Everyone welcome. www.stmarksworsley.org.uk Stockley Farm, Northwich Exciting Elf Adventure Weekends throughout December including a visit to Father Christmas in his grotto for a special Christmas Gift.

Booking essential. 01565 777323 / www.stockleyfarm.co.uk Tatton Park, Knutsford Lantern Parade Fri 24 Nov, Parade 6pm Light Father Christmas’ route at the stableyard for his special arrival. Bring your own lantern (instructions on website) or buy your own on the night to light his way as he and his elves glide in on his sleigh. Christmasthemed glitter tattoos & Christmas balloons available (additional charge).

Free workshops from 4pm in the stableyard barn rooms such as decorating your own paper lantern and writing a letter to Father Christmas (to post in the post box on the night!). Christmas Mansion (Entry £10 Adult, £6 child) open late. All shops and restaurants open until 7.30pm and Christmas Gift fair (free entry to the Tenants’ Hall) open till 6.30pm.

Father Christmas at the Farm Weekends from Sat 25 Nov – Sat 23 Dec / Adult £7, Child £6.50 (includes gift from Father Christmas) See your favourite farmyard friends when you visit Father Christmas and his reindeer, Prancer and Dancer. Live music from carol singers, brass bands, children’s entertainers, face painting, meet Aunty Mary in her Christmas Cottage who will be making traditional salt dough decorations (take one home to decorate!) and meet all your farmyard favourites around the nativity including donkeys Frosty and Huw. 01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk Torkington Park, Hazel Grove Winter Wonderland Sat 9 Dec, 11am – 5pm. Market stalls, festive food court, bar, Santa’s grotto, bands and much more! www.facebook.com/ hazelgrovecarnival Touchstones Rochdale Santa’s Grotto Fri 22 & Sat 23 Dec / 10.15 – 4pm / £8 (includes gift and activity). Meet the elves who will help you have some creative fun before meeting Santa in his magical grotto to get your gift.

Booking essential 01706 924928 / www.link4life.org

Intu Trafford Centre Santa’s Grotto Tues 7 Nov - Sun 24 Dec A magical, breath-taking adventure in an augmented-reality grotto.

Follow Santa’s baby reindeer Norbert through an arctic wonderland to the Northern Lights before you meet Santa and his polar friends. Booking essential. www.intu.co.uk/traffordcentre Woodford Park Garden Centre, Stockport Santa’s Grotto Sun 19 Nov – Sun 24 Dec / £9.50 per child, booking essential. A personal visit to Santa in his own winter wonderland, including a special gift.

Breakfast or Tea with Santa Breakfast: Weekends in Dec until Sun 24 Dec as well as Mon 18, Thurs 21, Fri 22 Dec Tea: Mon 4 – Sat 23 Dec (excl Sun 10 Dec) A fun-filled mealtime including a lovely present, and a story or game with the man himself. Booking essential.

0161 439 0745 / www.notcutts.co.uk Wyvale Garden Centres, Altrincham, Bolton and Marple Breakfast or Tea with Father Christmas Sat 18 Nov – Sun 24 Dec 18th November - 24th December* Enjoy a delicious, freshly-prepared breakfast or tea, the whole family meets Santa, children decorate a festive biscuit and then choose their very own present to take home! www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk

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Christmas shopping Countdown to Christmas with Giddy Goat Toys

As the dark nights draw in our thoughts begin to turn to the festive season, and at Giddy Goat Toys in Didsbury they’re just as excited as their younger customers who want to know how many sleeps till Father Christmas visits!

So, what better way to enjoy the countdown than an advent calendar? As well as the traditional open a window on a new picture each day during advent, they also have a selection of incredibly popular LEGO and

Playmobil Advent Calendars in stock, including LEGO Star Wars, LEGO Friends and LEGO City.

Also in store, they have a selection (or glamour, according to Gandalf) of elves, including the original Elf on a Shelf, which comes with a lovely picture book. These mischievous elves help Father Christmas keep an eye on all the naughty or nice children. The Elf on a Shelf phenomenon has really swept the nation in the last couple of years and we’re all big fans of this cheeky

Give the gift of Adventure Golf If you’re looking for a Christmas gift that’s a little different, how about a gift voucher from Paradise Island Adventure Golf?

With great courses at both Cheshire Oaks and the intu Trafford Centre, they’re the perfect stocking filler.

Available as £10 or £20 vouchers, they come in a lovely PIAG gift wallet and are available to purchase from the paybooths at the centres or online at www.paradiseislandgolf.com

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character who gets up to all manner of fun antics after dark, again helping to get children, and parents, into the Christmas spirit as well as encouraging good behaviour!

Writing a letter to Father Christmas is an essential part of the Christmas countdown.

It’s a great way to get some ideas from children about what they would like. Giddy Goat Toys has beautiful Letter to Santa stationery sets for those who wish to compile their thoughts for the big man in style. Once written, just pop into their Didsbury shop and get it posted. Their shop elves collect all of the letters and send them to the North Pole at midnight every night throughout December!

With a huge range of stock instore and more available to order, whether you’re working to a child’s wish-list or in need of help and inspiration, Giddy Goat will help you as much as

they can. Their helpful staff, a gift-wrapping service, online shopping, click and collect and surprisingly budget friendly prices, mean Giddy Goat Toys have got your back this Christmas!

What’s more, they’re just a few minutes’ walk from Didsbury village tram station and just off Didsbury high street with its great range of shops and bars, making Didsbury the ideal place for enjoyable and stress free Christmas shopping. Open until 7pm on Thursdays during December.

Giddy Goat Toys, 2 Albert Hill Street, Didsbury, Manchester.

M20 6RF. 0161 445 1097 / www.giddygoattoys.co.uk

Send a message that makes a difference this Christmas

Pioneering charity Brain Tumour Research has taken an innovative approach to their range of Christmas cards this year, signing up supporter and artist, Caroline Copland, to design a new card for 2017.

Caroline, who sadly lost her mother Janet to a brain tumour three years ago, was inspired by the Christmas Hope Trees which decorate the charity’s Research Centres of Excellence across the UK each year.

The Hope Tree cards will join other festive favourites in

the charity’s range. All cards are priced at £4 per pack of ten, with at least 60% of the proceeds going towards supporting vital brain tumour research. Brain Tumour Research is the only national charity in the UK focused on funding sustainable research to find a cure for brain tumours, which kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer.

Order via www.braintumourresearch. org/fundraise/ christmas-cards

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Christmas shopping Gift & craft fairs

Thurs 16 Nov – Wed 20 Dec

Chester Town Hall Square Chester Christmas Markets 10am – 6pm daily (open till 8pm Thurs and 7pm Fri & Sat). Over 70 traditional wooden chalets situated in the heart of Chester, all wrapped around a sparkling Christmas tree.

Festive treats and gifts, including quality local and regional products, crafts, clothing, accessories, jewellery, unique gifts and stocking fillers, as well as delicious hot food and drink. www.christmasinchester.com

Fri 17 & Sat 18 Nov

Sat 4 & Sun 5 Nov

Tatton Park, Knutsford Christmas Gift Fair 10.30am – 5pm / Normal park entry applies. Gifts for all the family and ideas for presents not usually found in high street shops. Free entry to the fair in the Tenants Hall. 01625 374400 / www.countrywide-events.co.uk

Sat 4 Nov & Sat 2 Dec

Railway Road, Urmston Urmston Artisan Market 10am – 4pm. Shopping, street food and music – loads of local, unique and tempting gift ideas. www.themarketco.co.uk

Tues 7 & Wed 8 Nov

Arley Hall, Northwich Christmas Shopping Spectacular Tues (Festive Bubbles & Shopping Evening): 6 – 10pm, £12 in advance only.

Wed (Daytime Shopping Spectacular): 9.30am – 4pm, £7.50. In aid of the Joshua Tree. www.arleyhallshoppingspectacular.co.uk

Fri 10 Nov – Wed 20 Dec Manchester Manchester Christmas Markets Around 300 traders offering festive gifts, mouth-watering international food and gallons and gallons of gluwein. Family friendly site on Cathedral Gardens with an ice rink.

The main hub in Albert Square remains open until Thurs 21 Dec. www.manchester.gov.uk

Manchester Cathedral Christmas Arts & Crafts Market 10am – 8pm (Fri), 10am – 4pm (Sat) / Free A not-to-be-missed Christmas Arts & Crafts Market supporting over 70 local independent makers, this FREE event also has a tea room, The Gin Society bar and Vintage DJ!

Sat 11 Nov

Manchester Craft & Design Centre M4 5JD Family Friendly Christmas Event 10am – 5.30pm Live music and activities throughout the day and Christmas crafts to keep the kids busy while you shop.

Oak Street Cafe will be serving up homemade festive food and drinks including stollen, mulled cider and boozy hot chocolate. www.craftanddesign.com St Margaret’s Church, Prestwich Prestwich Mum’s Autumn Fair 11am – 4pm. A friendly and fun community event raising money for local children (Home-Start Bury) and children affected by war in Syria (Manchester based Syria Relief).

Children’s crafts, toy and kid’s book stall, cakes and refreshments, a selection of local independent traders, tombola and a fantastic raffle.

Sat 11 Nov & Sat 9 Dec Church Street, Eccles, Salford Eccles Makers Market 10am – 4pm. Bringing together passionate, award winning food, drink, arts and craft producers from around the North West. Street performances from local musicians. www.themakersmarket.co.uk

Sat 18 Nov

St Margaret’s Church, Prestwich St Margaret’s Christmas Fair 10am. All your favourite stalls, raffle, cafe and grotto with a visit from the big man himself. www.stmargaretsprestwich. wordpress.com

Fri 24 – Sun 26 Nov

Tatton Park, Knutsford Tatton Christmas Shopping Fair Fri: 11.30am – 6.30pm / Sat & Sun 10am – 4pm / Normal park entry charge. Over 40 stalls in the Tenants Hall offering a wide range of present ideas, food and drinks and Christmas Essentials. Free entry to Hall. 01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Fri 24 – Sun 26 Nov & Sat 16 & Sun 17 Dec

The Lowry Plaza Lowry Makers Market 10am – 4pm / Free Nov: Victorian Christmas Fayre Dec: Magical Makers. The finest festive local food, drink, art, design, vintage and modern craft carefully selected from north west artisans in time for a magical Victorian Christmas. www.peel.co.uk

Sat 25 Nov

Market Place Shopping Centre, Bolton Bolton Handmade Market 10am – 5pm. Fabulous Maker’s Market with lots of stalls and great gifts to be purchased. www.mwlevents.co.uk

Fri 1 Dec

Bradshaw Community Primary School, Grappenhall Bradshaw’s Christmas Wonderland Fair 5 – 7.30pm / Adults 50p, children free Christmas music from the Choir & the fabulous group Vocal Infinity, mulled wine, mince pies and other food and drinks! Pocket money games, tombola’s, crafts for the children & stalls with local crafters selling ideal items for Christmas presents.

Sat 2 & Sun 3 Dec

Knutsford Christmas Weekend A two day festive street market providing the perfect place to get some unique gifts and treats. Live entertainment, Reindeer Parade and the switching on of the Knutsford Christmas Lights!

People’s History Museum, Manchester Etsy Made Local One of the UK’s biggest craft fair events. www.etsymcr.co.uk

Sun 3 Dec

Hollingworth Lake Visitor Centre Christmas Craft Fair 11.30am – 3.30pm Enhance your stroll around the lake with a visit to this popular craft fair.

Dogs welcome inside. Free entry. www.rochdaleonline.co.uk

Sat 9 Dec

High Lane Village Hall, Stockport Christmas Craft and Gift Fair 2 – 5pm. An afternoon of crafts, gifts, food, entertainment and family fun. www.facebook.com/ christmascraftandgiftfairhighlane

Sunday 17 December

Prestwich Artisan Winter Market Bury Venues & Village Greens invite you to experience unique makers, producers and artisans in crafts, arts, food and drink. Festive treats, surprises and merriment guaranteed!

FREE entry 10am – 4pm www.bury.gov.uk

Top ways to write to Santa

Gone are the days of sending letters up the chimney with present requests! Now contacting Santa is an altogether more fun and exciting mission. familiesonline.co.uk

Top ways to get in touch include: • The Royal Mail: Write to the man in red by Friday 8 December and get a personal letter back. See www.royalmail.com/letters -to-santa for more info.

• Write an email to Santa at emailsanta.com and he will send you a reply faster than Rudolph can fly!

• You can surprise your children with a personalised letter from Father Christmas whilst helping to raise funds for the NSPCC. All letters are

age-appropriate and come with beautiful illustrations. Request your letter delivered via RudolphMail at www.nspcc.org.uk (suggested donation £5).

• Get a personalised video from Santa using Portable North Pole App at www.portablenorthpole.com/en/ and Santa will commend those with good behaviour and offer a few words of encouragement for those naughty ones!

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Christmas shopping Books for the Season

By Justine Crow

As a bookseller, one of the least favourite phrases that I hear from passing parents is “No. You’ve got too many books already.” What sort of a message is that? I mean, those very same mums and dads also grumble that their kids just aren’t interested in reading any more. No excuses – Winter is the perfect season for hunkering down and burying noses, so here are some suggestions for filling your youngsters boots with words.

0-2 YEARS

Twinkle Twinkle ABC by Barney Saltzberg Phaidon RRP £8.95 And we begin with this artful and melodic board book that mixes and matches possibly the two most sung baby songs on the planet (well, your particular parental planet at any rate) accompanied by a banjo, a growling bear and a pirouetting cow (of course!) Perfect for winding down and instilling the irresistible idea in those little minds that bedtime means books.

The Snowbear by Sean Taylor & Claire Alexander Frances Lincoln RRP £11.99 Iggy and Martina head off into the snow to play but somehow they wander off just a little too far and after all their hard work getting cold hands whilst patting the snow into shape, who do you think comes to their rescue?

3-5 YEARS

The Bear & the Piano Sound Book by David Litchfield Frances Lincoln RRP £14.99 Now that you’ve warmed up the vocal chords above, everyone can enjoy this new sound edition of last year’s sumptuous hit picture book for pre-schoolers. Not too loud though, or – whispers - you’ll wake the baby.

Richard Scarry’s Best Treasury Ever by Richard Scarry Harpercollins RRP £20.00 For fifty years children have been entertained by the antics of Lowly Worm, Hilda Hippo and Huckle Cat and I think the deep affection for the Busytown stories persists because they convey diversity, combined with slapstick and familiarity. Everything and everyone is on the go here in aeroplanes, umpteen diggers and buses, and of course Mr Frumble’s Pickle Car. Just don’t get a ticket from Sergeant Murphy!

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6-8 YEARS

Santa Claude by Alex T Smith Hodder RRP £5.99 Claude, the daft dog with the knack for being in the wrong place at the right time, has done much to encourage early readers in these pocket sized stories with lots of pictures alongside clear un-daunting text. Our eponymous hero is back and wearing a certain festive person’s trousers, which are just little too big (ho ho ho!) and is causing mayhem with his best friend dear old cuddly Sir Bobblysock.

Scaredy Cat, Scaredy Cat by Phil Earle Hodder RRP £6.99 I have thoroughly enjoyed the barmy adventures of the inhabitants of Storey Street and recommend the previous three titles that can be read in any order – upside down.. inside out.. etc. For our final visit we meet young resident Kay Catt, a timid soul with much to worry about. Enter Wilf Wilkinson, the weirdest pensioner ever to set foot in the street. Never mind a flat cap and cardi, this old codger has a pointy hat. Just like a.. um.. wizard?

9-11 YEARS

Father Christmas & Me by Matt Haig Canongate RRP £14.99 The third in the tinsel decked trilogy by a brilliant thinker and writer of books for all ages, in which we meet Amelia and her newly adoptive parents, none other than Father and Mary Christmas (who wouldn’t want them for a mum and dad?). But wait, everything we love about this very special time of year is under threat from a certain jealous Easter Bunny and his rabbit henchmen. Yikes!

The Book of Dust by Philip Pullman David Fickling RRP £20.00 By heck, this really is a major publishing event.

Set ten years before the Northern Lights, we meet a new character, Malcolm, who navigates the Thames in his canoe ‘La Belle Sauvage.’ One day he discovers that the priory across the water has a visitor, an infant named Lyra… In a hundred years time, should bookshops still exist, long after flash-in-the-pan celeb authors have been forgotten, Pullman will be on the shelf right next to the great storytellers such as Dickens and Swift. If we do our job right as parents now, our children’s children will still have their noses buried in really good books like this. You can never have too many of them.

Justine Crow is co-founder of the famous South London bookshop ‘Bookseller Crow on the Hill’ based in Crystal Palace.

As well as being a blogger and reviewer, parent of three and qualified swimming teacher, she also co-authored The Little Book of Nits published by Bloomsbury. familiesonline.co.uk

Christmas fun The magical Winter Wonderland is back in Manchester!

The UK’s largest indoor winter wonderland Christmas attraction will open its doors on Saturday 9 December, transforming 22,000sq m of EventCity in to a sparking seasonal spectacular featuring more than 50 family rides and attractions, all under one roof!

At the heart of the wonderland, festive fans will find Santa’s house, transported from the North Pole to the city and where visitors will be able to explore the hallway, lounge, dining room, kitchen and bedroom. There will also be real reindeer, as well as elves and fairies – who will be ready to have

s-elfies taken with youngsters.

Other highlights of the 24-day Christmas extravaganza include Rainbow’s irrepressible duo Zippy and George, bringing magic, mayhem and comedy capers, and the brilliant Christmas Circus which will leave everyone stunned and amazed at its daily performances.

And if you’ve been inspired by the amazing acrobatic acts and feats of daring, there’s also an opportunity to try out your own circus skills in special workshops on site.

Meanwhile there will be a chance for children to create their own amazing models in the interactive building block zone.

There will also be a host of other fun things to do and see including the thrilling rides and attractions, which are all included in one ticket price.

And don’t forget we’ve got a Family Ticket up for grabs – have a look at page 3 of this issue!

Elfish fun at Stockley!

Have you booked your space yet for Stockley Farm Park’s Exciting Elf Adventure? 2½ hours of magical fun to get the whole family into the festive spirit!

Elf yourself this Christmas….

www.winterwonderlandmanchester.com

This Christmas, Santa’s Elves need your help as The Elf Adventure Challenge returns to the North West.

Offering a fun, actioned packed, festive filled alternative to the traditional Santa’s grotto experience, Elf Adventure Challenge takes children on a journey to become a fully-fledged Christmas elf, as they are taught festive skills such as how to prepare Santa’s sleigh and how to make toys ready for Christmas Eve. Join Chief Elf Pumpaa and Elflet Sprout as

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Taking place every weekend from Saturday 2 – Sunday 24 December and evenings from Thursday 21 – Saturday 23 December, each experience includes: • A festive brunch or dinner • Helping the elves perform the panto • Making a Christmas decoration • Visiting Father Christmas in his Grotto and receiving an early gift!

• Meeting the friendly farm animals • Plus much more!

Elf adventures must be pre-booked online, so make sure you don’t miss out! For more info head to www.stockleyfarmpark.co.uk

they introduce you to the magical stories surrounding the work and play of Santa’s special helpers. Work together as a family, complete the challenges and go away with an Honourary Elf certificate, a magical Christmas Elf Adventure storybook and even an elfie selfie!

To see if you and your family have what it takes to become ‘Honorary Elves’, make sure you join this special interactive indoor experience between 25 November and 24 December for an hour-long session that both children and adults will enjoy.

Master the challenge at Great Northern Warehouse, Deansgate, Manchester City Centre or Cheshire Ice Cream Farm, near Chester.

For more information and to book tickets visit www. elfadventurechallenge. com Limited sessions and capacity available so book early to avoid disappointment.

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Panto’s & family shows The Snowman Manchester Opera House Wed 8 – Sun 12 Nov. The stage show based on the classic book and film.

When a young boy’s snowman comes to life on Christmas Eve, the two set off on a night-time quest for adventure. They meet Father Christmas, dancing penguins, reindeer and crowds of The Snowman’s friends, but will they escape evil Jack Frost and get back home for Christmas morning? www.manchestertheatres.com

Trip Manchester Glee – American Road Z-arts, Hulme Sat 19 Nov. A one night only extravaganza suitable for all ages.

0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org

The Magic Fish Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Sat 11 Nov. A classic Indian tale retold through dance, storytelling and beatboxing for young thinking minds. Suitable for ages 5-9 years.

Running time approx. 45 mins. www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

A Christmas Carol Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Tues 21 Nov. Charles Dickens’ classic ghost story is brought alive in this most traditional of productions, complete with beautiful period costume, song, dance and a magnificent musical score.

Age 6+. www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

The Hunting Of The Snark The Met, Bury All aboard! The ship is departing! All children, animals and silly people welcome! Side-splittingly funny, joyful, fast-paced and bursting with a soundtrack of witty songs by an award-winning songwriter. www.themet.biz Dick Whittington Oldham Coliseum Sat 11 Nov – Sat 13 Jan. Fabulous costumes, glitz and glamour, silliness and slapstick and hit songs to sing along to. www.coliseum.org.uk Teletubbies: Big Hugs Palace Theatre, Manchester Fri 17 – Sun 19 Nov. Join Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po in a show full of love and laughter as they explore the magical world of Teletubbyland. www.manchestertheatres.com A Christmas Carol Octagon Theatre, Bolton Fri 17 Nov – Sat 13 Jan Charles Dickens’ cherished festive tale is brought to life in this enchanting stage adaptation full of joy, song, and magic! With a host of classic Christmas carols this heartwarming and uplifting story is the perfect festive treat. www.octagonbolton.co.uk

Tidy Up The Lowry (Aldridge Studio) Sun 19 Nov. Inspired by the child’s desire to create order, patterns and systems, this show is a witty and uplifting journey discovering if chaos and order can ever live side-by-side! www.thelowry.com

Elf – The Musical The Lowry Fri 24 Nov – Sun 14 Jan Based on the cinema hit starring Will Ferrell, Elf is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole.

Suitable for ages 5+. www.thelowry.com Comedysportz 4 Tots Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Sat 25 Nov. A brand new show packed with silly games and songs for under 6s. Highly interactive, friendly, non-competitive and entertaining. www.watersideartscentre.co.uk The Snow Dragon The Lowry (Aldridge Studio) Sun 26 Nov. Toe-tapping songs and lots of laughs for everyone aged 3+. www.thelowry.com Nativity The Musical Palace Theatre, Manchester Wed 29 Nov – Sun 3 Dec. Your favourite festive film has been adapted for the stage and is the perfect seasonal comedy for all the family. www.manchestertheatres.com Sleeping Beauty Middleton Arena Thurs 30 Nov – Wed 27 Dec. The pantomime of your dreams! With Kerry Katona as the evil Carabosse. www.middletonarena.com

Manchester & Districts Hospitals’ Choir Carol Concert Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Mon 4 & Tues 5 Dec. Join in singing traditional carols for all the family with choirs from hospitals in Manchester and surrounding districts and Primary Schools around the area. The concerts are in aid of CLIC Sargent Young Lives vs Cancer. www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

The Bear Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Tues 5 Dec – Sat 6 Jan. Excitement is mounting as another of Raymond Briggs’ (creator of The Snowman) much-loved books comes to life on stage this Christmas at Waterside.

Join Tilly and her great big white polar bear friend on a wild, magical and very funny adventure. With brilliant puppetry, lovely music, entrancing storytelling and lots of laughs, this is a heart-warming and joyous show, the perfect Christmas treat for all 3 – 11 year olds, and something they’ll remember forever.

Special 6pm slumber shows! Come in your jimjams with your favourite teddy bear and snuggle down for some Christmas fun with The Bear.

Milk and cookies are also available!

See thebearlive.com for the dates of our 6pm shows. Book your tickets at www.thebearlive.com or call the Box Office on 0161 912 5616 today!

Around The World In 80 Days The Lowry (Quays Theatre) Tues 5 Dec – Sun 7 Jan. The mysterious and fabulously wealthy Phileas Fogg wagers his life’s fortune that he can circumnavigate the globe in just 80 days. A cast of eight play over 125 characters in this imaginative, high-spirited escapade including six trains, five boats, four fights, three dances, two circus acts and an elephant! www.thelowry.com

The Gruffalo The Lowry (Quays Theatre) Wed 6 Dec – Sun 7 Jan Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. For ages 3+. www.thelowry.com Christmas is Coming!

Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Fri 8 Dec. Get into the Christmas Spirit and at the same time raise much needed funds for St Ann’s Hospice.

Join the Festival Choir and their guests for an exciting evening of seasonal music and readings for all the family. www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk Dick Whittington Manchester Opera House Sat 9 Dec – Sun 7 Jan. A magical pantomime adventure starring John Barrowman and The Krankies! www.manchestertheatres.com The Hallé Christmas Family Concert Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Sun 10 Dec. An afternoon of Hallé festive family fun packed with sing-alongs, jingle-alongs, pre-show foyer entertainment and a whole lot more. Even Santa might find time to make a guest appearance… www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk Aladdin Stockport Plaza Fri 1 Dec – Sun 7 Jan. Take a magical carpet ride to this glittering production starring Ted Robbins (Phoenix Nights/The Slammer) as the hilarious Widow Twanky and Brian Capron (Coronation Street) as the evil Abanazar. With breath-taking special effects, it’s an affordable festive family treat. www.stockportplaza.co.uk Cinderella Albert Halls, Bolton Sat 2 – Sun 31 Dec. Experience the magical age old fairy tale and watch while Cinders overcomes her wicked stepmother and stepsisters and go on to win the heart of the handsome Prince Charming. With lots of fun and laughter along the way! www.quaytickets.com/ boltonalberthalls Aladdin Salford Arts Theatre Sat 2 – Sun 31 Dec. Magic lamps, flying carpets, a big baddie and beautiful Jasmine makes this Salford’s must see highlight for Christmas. www.salfordartstheatre.com Father Christmas Comes Up Trumps Parr Hall, Warrington Sun 3 Dec. Father Christmas is back, and this time he’s had three helpings of sprouts! A fabulously funny and brilliantly bouncy musical adaptation of the sequel to ‘Father Christmas Needs a Wee.’ www.pyramidparrhall.com Traditional Carol Concert Elizabethan Suite, Bury Thurs 7 Dec / £5 adults / £3 children 7pm – 9pm. Traditional carols with Bury Music Service and Peel Brow Primary School choir. www.bury.gov.uk

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Panto’s & family shows Red Riding Hood and the Wolf Home, Manchester Thurs 7 – Thurs 14 Dec (not Sun & Mon) You may think you know the story of Red Riding Hood, but there are two sides to every story, so let’s hear it from the Wolf himself! Here’s the story never heard of a kind and hungry wolf who strayed from the path and lost his friends. www.homemcr.org Little Red and The Big Bad Wolf Z-arts, Hulme Fri 8 – Sun 10 Dec, Fri 15 & Sat 16 Dec A bold and highly theatrical re-telling of the well-known classic tale packed with music, dance and song. Free Art Cart for all ticket holders before the show, and all children will receive a free goody bag. 0161 2261912 / www.z-arts.org Cabin of Curiosity Touchstones Rochdale Sat 9 & Sat 16 Dec. 11am / Families and children age 7+ / £3. It’s Christmas time in the Cabin of Curiosity and Professor Jigget, explorer, goblin scientist and storyteller, had lost all the presents meant for his Magical and nonsensical friends. But he hasn’t got the time to find them - what with a live show to perform. Who will look out for the Christmas gifts while the Professor interviews his ridiculous guests? Expect stories, adventure and nonsense! 01706 924928 / www.link4life.org

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Traditional Carol Concert Ramsbottom Civic Hall Sun 10 Dec / £5/£3. Bury Music Service & St. Joseph’s R.C. Primary School. £5 / £3. www.bury.gov.uk Carol Concert Longfield Suite, Bury. Sun 10 Dec / £5/£4. Festive carols and songs with students from St Bernadette’s R.C. Primary School Choir. www.bury.gov.uk The Siege of Christmas Contact Manchester Wed 13 – Wed 20 Dec. Starting outside the main doors of Contact, and roaming throughout this unique castle-y building, The Siege of Christmas is an immersive theatrical adventure for young audiences and the taller people that look after them. Can you help rescue The Spirit of Christmas? Fun for all the family (Age 5+). www.contactmcr.com How To Hide A Lion Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester Wed 13 – Sun 31 Dec. Join Iris on a mission to squeeze and squash her furry new friend into a variety of sneaky spots, as Helen Stephens’ magical book comes to life with playful humour, dazzling puppetry and original songs. www.royalexchange.co.uk

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Panto’s & family shows Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Forum Theatre, Romiley Fri 15 – Sun 17 Dec & Thurs 21 – Fri 22 Dec. The enchanting story of Snow White suitable for all.

07979 788760 / www.nktheatre.co.uk Cinderella The Dancehouse, Manchester Fri 15 – Sun 31 DecA panto fantastical romp full of dance, song music and comedy. Fabulous costumes, jam-packed with laughter and excitement for little ones and not-so-little ones too! www.thedancehouse.co.uk The Wizard of Oz Heywood Civic Sat 16 – Tues 26 Dec. A Christmas treat is fun for all the family from 2 to 102. Packed with great songs, brilliant dance routines and plenty of laughter. www.link4life.org/heywoodcivic RNCM Christmas Family Day Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester Sun 17 Dec. A day of festive activities and musical treats, including a screening of the magical film The Bear by Raymond Briggs and Howard Blake, with live orchestra and soloists. Age 3+. www.rncm.ac.uk

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Classic Carols with Alan Titchmarsh Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Tues 19 Dec A a joyous assortment of Christmas music and carols presented by Alan Titchmarsh. Join in singing carols including O Holy Night, Candlelight Carol, Fantasia on Christmas Carols, A Merry Little Christmas, Joy to the World Shepherd’s Pipe Carol and a selection from The Nutcracker Suite, as well as classics like O little town of Bethlehem, Good King Wenceslas, Once in royal David’s city and God rest ye merry, gentlemen. www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk ARE YOU FEELING LUCKY?!

We’ve got a Family Ticket to give away to this show! Simply send an email to caryl@familiesmanchester. co.uk with the word CAROLS in the title by Sun 10 December. The winner will be drawn on Monday 11 December. Good luck!

Santa’s Little Helper The Met, Bury Wed 20 – Sun 24 Dec. A delightful new show comes to life with an irresistible blend of music, puppetry and high energy storytelling. With lots of laughs, sing-along songs and plenty of opportunities to join in along the way.

For ages 3 – 7. www.themet.biz The Extraordinary Tale of Holly Christmas The Lowry (Aldridge Studio) Wed 20 – Sun 31 Dec. An original festive adventure jam packed with songs, music, puppetry and lots of Christmas magic. This show is suitable for the whole family, especially 3-8 year olds and their grown-ups! www.thelowry.com The Hallé - The Snowman Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Fri 22 & Sat 23 Dec. This classic animated film is accompanied by the Hallé performing Howard Blake’s magical score live including a chorister singing ‘Walking in the Air. Perfect for all the family. www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

Jungle Book Ramsbottom Civic Hall Sat 30 & Sun 31 Dec. Follow Mowgli and Baloo on their amazing jungle adventure! www.hardgraft.co.uk Beauty & the Beast Woodford Centre, Woodford Tues 2 – Sat 6 Jan. A wonderful story, great songs and lots of fun brought to you by some of the most talented 11 – 19 year olds in Cheshire! www.chypspanto.com Jack & The Beanstalk Parr Hall, Warrington Fri 5 – Sun 14Jan.Agiant ofa Pantomime, full of beans and packed with “Fee, Fi, Fo, FUN!” www.pyramidparrhall.com Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Carver Theatre, Marple Fri 12 – Sat 20 Jan. Poor Snow White, treated cruelly by her wicked stepmother, she finds herself abandoned in the woods.

How lucky that she meets an unusual bunch of little people who welcome her into their home. But will Snow White be safe and will she get to meet her handsome prince? www.carvertheatre.co.uk

Christmas Spectacular Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Wed 20 December. Wonderful music, thrilling lights anddazzling indoor fireworks. Songs and carols for all! www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

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Parents’ place Keeping kids active: 5 top tips

Children’s sports and fitness specialist, EdStart, is running an educational school assembly roadshow across Manchester and Cheshire, to spread the word about why staying active is so important for children. Celebrity ambassadors include Olympic Gold medallist and star of ‘I’m a Celebrity...’ Sam Quek, international rugby player Adrian Morley and European boxing champion Jamie Moore.

Here, former professional

rugby player and MD of EdStart, Chris Irwin, shares his top tips on getting more movement into your kids’ day.

Did you know that children aged 5 to 16 should have at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day? With a recent world Health Organisation report showing that childhood obesity has grown tenfold over the last four decades, it’s more important than ever for children to maintain a healthy lifestyle. An hour each day may seem like a challenge

A world of imaginative play If you’re looking for a different kind of party for your little ones this year then look no further! Teepee Delight provides Teepee Hire for children’s birthdays and slumber parties (as well as weddings and events!). Bring the fun of glamping into your home and provide a day/night for your little ones to remember.

All of their hire packages include beautiful handmade teepees made here in the UK. Slumber party guests are also

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provided with matching sleeping mats or airbeds, sheets, bedding, bunting, cosy blankets, mini lights, twinkly lights, lanterns, star projectors and a lightbox with the party girl/boys name on. And if a midnight feast is required don’t forget to check out their fabulous Teepee Bake Off Slumber Party package!!

They will deliver, assemble and style your teepee party all before your guests arrive and pop back the following morning to pack up and take it all away, leaving your home mess free.

And you can get a 10% discount if you mention Families magazine when booking. www.teepeedelight.com

– but there are lots of ways to keep kids moving: • Playing sport is an obvious way to keep fit, but have you ever thought of doing it as a family? Not only does it help keep kids active (as well as adults), but it can strengthen family ties and improve communication. It doesn’t have to be regimented – try a family walk at the weekend.

• Every little helps – encourage children to walk or cycle to school, take the dog for a walk or get involved in sports clubs. It can take a while to find your child’s best fit – at a young age just trying out lots of different activities is to be applauded. Balance activities like gymnastics will help in all sorts of sports in the future, building transferrable skills.

• Positive attitudes start at school. PE lessons are so important, and really help to develop good habits for life. Physical education has even been linked with greater academic achievement, and can help

to reduce stress and anxiety. EdStart’s fitness assembly roadshow fires up a love of sport in children and helps spread the word about why it’s so important.

• Sports not screens is an important mantra – easier said than done, but try leading by example and putting down your smart phone or tablet and getting into the garden as a family.

Having said that, we know how much kids love screens, which is why EdStart uses ‘virtual’ fitness coaches in our school sessions, beaming in exercise demonstrations on the hall’s big screen!

• Keep track of progress to keep kids motivated and boost their self-esteem. As children get older, they can lose confidence in their sporting abilities, so being able to see how far they have come is extremely rewarding.

For more information on EdStart and enquire about booking an assembly for your child’s school, visit www.edstart.org.uk/provision.

Can you invite an international student to share your home?

With the number of international students coming to UK boarding schools, there’s an increasing need for host families.

Host families look after students when they are unable to travel home, generally during the short school holidays, but sometimes in longer holidays too.

Families with children of their own, empty nesters or grandparents may all benefit from hosting international students. At the same time, a student will derive enormous cultural and language benefits whilst staying in a caring home, enhancing their learning experience and life in the UK.

Whether it’s adapting to life in the beautiful English countryside or life in a large, busy city, or learning to bake bread with a host and teaching them how to cook the best noodles, these shared experiences can give rise to lifelong friendships.

Hosting can be short term from just a few weekends a year, to half term holidays and can even include some of the longer school holidays.

If you register to enjoy this wonderful experience, a generous compensation package will reward your hospitality.

For further information, please contact jane@collegeguardians. co.uk

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Parents’ place Top Ten Tips for Family Happiness

By Andy Cope

When you ask parents what they want for their kids, what’s usually the most common reply? They want their children to be happy. Sometimes it’s hard to balance what’s best for your child with what makes them happy – but the two don’t have to be mutually exclusive. It is generally accepted that happier kids are more likely to turn into successful, accomplished adults.

So here are my top ten tips.

1. Praise your children for their effort rather than their ability.

So, for example, if they get a good grade in maths don’t say “Genius, you are the next Einstein.” Do say, “Brilliant!

That shows what you can achieve with hard work.”

2. If you have small children, practise what Gretchen Rubin calls ‘gazing lovingly.’

This means downing tools at the end of the evening and standing at your children’s bedroom door, watching them sleep. (Only with your own kids though, and there is an age limit of 10! After that, the general rule is that you NEVER go in your kids’ bedrooms, just in case!)

3. Read a bedtime story to your kids like it was the most exciting book in the world.

And note, it is doubly important for sons to see their dads reading books.

4. How we behave in a moment of triumph and joy makes a huge difference in either building or undermining familiesonline.co.uk

relationships. Broadly speaking, parents need to be ‘active constructive,’ which means celebrating success with genuine enthusiasm.

I’m not suggesting an over the top punching of the air celebration for every smidgen of good news, but a raising of your levels of enthusiasm means you won’t miss out on so many glorious relationship building opportunities. The ‘active constructive’ reaction is completely brilliant on all sorts of levels. The message is they’re proud and you’re proud. Your active constructive response means they know you’re proud. Best of all, you’ve engineered it so you know they know you’re proud.

5. If you write a list of 10 things you really appreciate but take for granted, your family will almost certainly be on there. So stop taking them for granted!

6. Any family is only as happy as their least happy child.

Rather than avoiding them, invest time with your children and be genuinely interested in what they’re up to. This is such an important point, I should probably have included it at number 1.

7. Chatter away! A study by Hart and Risley suggested that by age 4, children raised in poor families will have heard 32 million fewer words than children raised in professional families. To add to the woe, it’s not just

quantity, it’s also the emotional tone. So please speak a lot and, where possible, couch your language in the 8:1 ratio of positive to negative. Say instead of “how was school?” why not upgrade to “what was the highlight of your day?”’ or “what was the funniest or most amazing thing you’ve done today?” Say it like you mean it and, of course, properly listen to the answer. You will be rewarded with an increased likelihood of a positive conversation.

8. Turn off your electronic devices and spend more time with your real flesh and blood family.

Happiness is a social thing.

9. Practise the four minute rule. This is a phrase that came from a guru friend of mine, Steve McDermott, and I love its simplicity.

Basically, your emotions are contagious. They leak out of

you and ‘infect’ your family around you. So, when you make the conscious choice to be positive and upbeat, it takes four minutes for other family members to catch it too. So be enthusiastic for 4 minutes and everyone else will feel great too!

10. When you’re thinking of passing down your inheritance, be sure to remember that it’s not just a lump of cash and a bit of jewellery. You are passing down habits, knowledge, mind-sets and cognitive traits. Your positivity can set your child up for life!

Andy Cope is a happiness expert and co-author of The Little Book of Emotional Intelligence: How to Flourish in a Crazy World. For more information see www.artofbrilliance.co.uk.

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Clubs & classes The benefits of children learning a new language

Every parent wants the very best for their child, guiding them into learning new skills to help them grow and mature The most common activities are sports and drama, and while these activities do stimulate learning and

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development, studying a second language also offers many short and long-term benefits.

Here are just a few that you might not have thought of: It promotes self-discipline From an early age, your child should be taught that

nothing comes without hard work. It’s true that learning a second language can be very rewarding, but it will take a lot of time and determination to do so. Therefore, as well as learning a new language, your child will learn a valuable lesson about how success is only achieved through self-discipline and effort. You can’t put a price on this knowledge.

It’s fun Learning a language really can be lots of fun and your child will no doubt be delighted when they get the opportunity to show off their newfound skill to you, their friends and relatives. The

learning process can also be enjoyable if you incorporate a few games in along the way as well as interactive teaching methods. Remember, you don’t have to spend hours upon hours in a classroom to learn a new language. In fact, some people even develop their accent and pronunciation by watching popular TV shows in a different language.

It’s great for communication We live in a multicultural society where there are more languages spoken than ever before. In London alone, there are over 300 different languages spoken. Whether your child is learning French, Spanish, Polish, German or Mandarin, they will be able to communicate with a wider range of people once they have crafted their new skill.

This should also help with their understanding of the world and acceptance of different cultures.

It's extremely useful Knowing an additional language can come in very

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Clubs & classes handy. While we already know that it can go far in sprawling cities like London, it’s obviously very benefical whenever they go abroad. This means that holidays won’t just be about sun, sea and sand but another adventure where your young one can hone their skills. Just think how much easier it will be to order at a local restaurant!

It helps with education Studies have shown that being bilingual can help your child excel in school. This is because the process of learning an extra language improves the function of the brain. In particular, problem solving is one area that should develop, making it easier for your child to excel in difficult subjects like maths.

Your child’s English can improve In many cases, your child’s grasp on English will improve after they have learnt a new language. This is because they will have an increased awareness when it comes to root words, syntax and grammar. In turn, this will help develop your child’s writing skills, which should be noticeable when they get older and start taking important exams such as GCSEs and A-Levels.

It can lead to wider career options.

The best employers take notice of bilingualism because it reflects self-discipline. Some jobs will even specify that they require a bilingual candidate because it means they can do business with people from overseas.

Essentially, bilingualism is just another skill that will (one day) make your child’s CV stand out.

It’s easier to learn now Most adults have visions of one day learning a language but sadly it can be quite difficult in later life. As well as busy lifestyles getting in the way, as we become older, it becomes harder for the brain to absorb new information like it once could. That is why it’s beneficial for your child to start learning another language from a young age.

Other languages will also come more naturally Once your child knows an additional language, they will find it easier to learn a third language in the future. They will also be able to pick up language-based skills – such as shorthand – much faster than other individuals. There’s no telling how many languages your child could know by the time they are in their twenties.

Start your child’s linguistic journey today All parents should give some serious thought to their child learning another language.

While most children will be able to grasp the skill from as young as three, the majority will still benefit from starting their linguistic journey before they reach high school.

For more information about language classes visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk/ activities

Directory Little Monkeys Club Increase your child’s confidence, co-ordination and fitness through a fun variety of climbing equipment, soft play, shapes, music and movement (including badge scheme) for children walking to 5 years.

Tuesday mornings at Brabyns Recreation Centre, Marple Bridge. Call Karen 07986 182884 or visit www.karenbrook.co.uk/little-monkeys

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 wimming. 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 (East Lancashire). www.puddleducks.com

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Families Manchester 17

Education The Secret Lives of 4 & 5 year olds at school

Most parents and carers wish they could be a fly-on-the-wall when their child starts school.

Well, Channel 4’s Secret Lives of 4 & 5 Year Olds which returns this November, allows them to do just that. Filmed in a specially rigged Essex school, the new series aims to give viewers a child’s perspective of their transition to a school setting.

Claire Winter talks to Dr Elizabeth Kilbey, a psychologist from the show, about what she learnt whilst filming the series.

Can you tell us more about the series?

“It offers this wonderful window, through which we can watch the children playing and interacting with each other. We give them lots of things to do, to see how they manage and play. It’s an amazing way of showing viewers what their children are actually doing at school.”

How did the children cope with the transition to school?

“Parents’ main worry is generally ‘will my child be alright?’ and some children are very anxious. A great example is that wonderful picture of Prince

George looking a bit worried on his first day of school. What I can now confidently tell parents and carers is that their children are absolutely fine, once they are gone. They are doing lots of interesting things and coping brilliantly.”

Not all children cope with the transition so well, what advice would you give to them?

“Take a calm, pragmatic approach. Essentially children tend to be worried about what they think might happen. In reality, they are going to be fine, but they just don’t know that yet. Be confident and reassure your child that everything will be okay. Children are inherently social beings. They are curious and want to interact with people so even timid children will find something that sparks their imagination. Remember, the school setting is designed to engage them. It’s getting them to go in which is the tough bit.

Once they are there they’ll be fine.”

What advice can you give parents whose children haven’t started school yet?

“Children need to develop

communications skills, get used to talking and relating to others and playing cooperatively. All of these social abilities will be vital later in life. Encourage lots of play with other children and get them to question how things work because natural curiosity is the main driver for learning.”

How can kids deal with friendship issues, if they have fallen out with someone?

“It’s very tempting as a parent to want to fix this problem, but children fall in and out of friendships hundreds of times a day and can usually sort issues out themselves.

If the problem is more complicated and you think there is unkind behaviour or bullying, then an adult might need to step in. But on the whole, conflict, when you are learning to be social is perfectly normal. Ask your child, “Is there anything you can do to sort the situation out?” Try and help them understand the other child’s perspective. As parents, we often overcomplicate issues.

We can learn a lot from children, particularly the way they are so open and forgiving.”

How can we deal with the issue of gender with young children?

“I feel that gender isn’t particularly a driving force for children this age. They do make assumptions about children but they are happy for them to be corrected and they play on a much more straightforward basis.

Gender becomes a much bigger issue for children towards the end of primary school. It’s important

to encourage them to keep an open mind and understand that children of all ages and genders need the same opportunities because that is what is important for their development. Brains are not gendered, brains allow our children to learn.”

What can you do if a child is exhibiting OCD type behaviour?

“Anxiety needs a non-emotional response and a calm authority can be incredibly helpful. It’s tempting to offer support to someone who is suffering by saying, “isn’t this terrible,” but this reinforces the idea that there is something to be scared of.

Parents shouldn’t try to neutralise the anxiety or reinforce it; it is best to carry on, with a business as usual approach.

“If you are concerned or the behaviour is continuing over a long period of time and in more than one setting, get some advice from your school, GP or Health Visitor.”

What was the most interesting insight you gained from watching the children?

“I learnt that children of this age are hilarious and multilayered. They are not that different from adults. They have amazingly rich social lives.

They test hypotheses, ask questions, fail and then carry on. They are resilient and incredibly complicated, just like we are.”

‘The Secret Lives of 4 and 5 Year Olds’ will be aired on Channel 4 in November.

mistakes. There is a great variety of cultural experiences, visiting galleries, museums, concerts and theatres to whet the inquisitive appetite.

The School cherishes each girl as an individual and nurtures confidence, creativity and self-esteem; in this lively, creative, well-structured but warm and friendly environment,

they thrive and grow into balanced, happy, confident and caring young people, ready to relish the next stage of their education.

Key entry points are Years 3, 4 and 5 but a small number of spaces become available for entry into Year 6. Do go along and see them on their Open Days on 9 and 11 November. www.wgs.org

Welcome to Withington!

As Withington’s Junior School celebrates the start of its third year in its new building, the department continues to go from strength to strength. The £5m Junior block and community Hub opened in 2015 – and now, in a further upgrade, Withington is building a new £1.75m Sports Centre, due to open next year.

True to its founding principles, all Juniors have a daily PE lesson which may include netball, pop lacrosse or gymnastics.

Extracurricular activities include dancing, fitness or table tennis; choir, orchestra, string and flute groups; chess; debating; and 18 Families Manchester

even a highly popular pets club.

There is also a focus on wellbeing, with yoga available and plenty of space in the new Hub to play and relax. Senior girls support many of these activities and Juniors benefit enormously from the friendship and understanding that flourishes across the whole school.

Academically, Junior girls enjoy a wide range of subjects using the same specialist facilities and teachers available to the Senior School.

Girls are encouraged to become independent, bold thinkers, not afraid of making

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Education

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Families Manchester 19

Education Making the most of your school parents’ meetings

So, you’ve been to a meeting with your child’s teacher and you’ve got an overview of how your child is progressing.

Explore Learning gives you a few tips on what to do next.

• Discuss the feedback from the teacher with your child.

They may already be aware of what they need to work on but if they don’t, talk about it. Set a goal together of something they would like to achieve based on their

20 Families Manchester

feedback and aim to complete this by the end of next term. Decide together about how they are going to get there.

For example: You’re told that they give up every time they have to learn something new, especially times tables. The goal you come up with together is to have a can-do attitude.

Steps to getting there could be taking a new set of tables and learning them in

small batches. Praise them for the ones they have got right, alongside highlighting when they are being positive towards their learning so they know what kind of attitude is expected.

• If you’ve set any goals with the teacher, then plan a time to review these.

Depending on how the teacher likes to work, this could be an email, call or face to face catch up 6 – 8 weeks after the initial meeting. Review how things are going and make changes if needed.

• You may come away from a meeting and realise you’ve forgotten something or you don’t understand how the school is reporting on progress. Contact the school if you still have questions, or look on their website, as you

should find a wealth of information on there.

• Ask others for help. Don’t worry if you don’t understand something or want to know what others are doing. Lots of people will be in the same position so talk to fellow parents for advice. Alternatively, there are some great advice websites like www.theschoolrun.co.uk and www.oxfordowl.co.uk or if you have a tutor, talk to them. At Explore Learning our tutors always help parents when they need advice and will consider your child’s recent reports and feedback when tailoring their learning. Never be afraid to ask; there is no such thing as a silly question when it comes to your child’s learning!

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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 or upload your event listing to our website - www.familiesonline.co.uk

Throughout Nov & Dec

Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Animation City presents The Cosgrove Hall Films Exhibition Free entry. An exhibition featuring your favourite Cosgrove Hall characters, including Danger Mouse, Bill and Ben the Flower Pot Men, Noddy, and many more. Expect to see original puppets, story boards and props being exhibited together for the first time, alongside behind-the-scenes insights into the creative processes that brought this array of beloved characters to the screen. www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Throughout Nov & Dec Until Tues 2 Jan

Event City Dinosaurs in the Wild Travel back 67 million years to a prehistoric world where you’ll experience dinosaurs as never before.

Fully immersive, interactive show – a unique, thrilling blend of theatre, theme park fun and the very latest palaeontological knowledge. www.dinosaursinthewild.com

Fusilier Museum, Bury Remembrance Commemorations 11am – 1.30pm. A special Remembrance Commemoration in the Gallipoli Garden and then make a poppy inside the museum. Find out about the different types of poppy people wear and what they mean. www.fusiliermuseum.com Bury Central Library Lego Club 2 – 3pm / Age 5+ (accompanied) / 50p Join in the fun at Bury Library creating and building with LEGO. www.bury.gov.uk

Weekends from Sat 11 – Sun 26 Nov

Dunham Massey Below Stairs Tour 11.30 – 3.30 / All ages / Free tour, but normal admission applies. Disover what life was like for Dunham’s servants and step back in time on a guided tour of the servants quarters with our Victorian Estate Agent. House & Garden ticket required. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ dunham-massey

Sat 4 Nov

Albert Square, Manchester Christmas lights switch-on 7.30pm / Free. Alcohol free, family friendly event with live entertainment and a 10-minute firework finish. www.manchester.gov.uk

Fri 10 Nov & Mon 18 Dec Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Music Makers Toddlers 11am & 12pm, Babies 1.45 & 2.45pm / Booking essential.

Music and sensory play sessions for babies/toddlers. www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

Sat 11 Nov

Manchester Cathedral Be a Chorister for a Day Explore the Cathedral, try on chorister robes and have a go at brass-rubbing. Children must be accompanied. Limited places, so booking essential.

0161 833 2220 (ext. 238) / www.manchestercathedral.org

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Thurs 16 Nov

Victoria Square, Bolton Christmas Light switch on and Fireworks 2017 5 – 7pm / All ages / Free. A fun-filled family Christmas light switch on by Bolton’s Jason Kenny and his new wife Laura! Christmas parade, music, entertainment, Father Christmas on stage and a spectacular firework finale. www.visitbolton.com/ winterfestival/lights

Fri 17 – Sun 19 Nov

Tatton Park, Knutsford Foodies Festival Christmas Fri 5 – 9pm, Sat & Sun 10am – 6pm / Adult £10, Child £8, normal admission applies.

Everything Christmas food and drink related – with celeb chefs, masterclasses, loads to eat and drink and Elf’s Cookery School for the kids. 01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sat 18 Nov

Food Sorcery Cookery School, Didsbury Big and Little Cooks - Cooking Together 3 – 6pm / £80 for adult and child (includes all ingredients) – £20 per additional child.

An inspiring afternoon cooking (and eating) a meal together with your child(ren) or soon to be teenager. 0161 706 0505 / www.foodsorcery.co.uk

Sat 18 – Mon 20 Nov Tues 14, 21, 18 Nov, 5 & 12 Dec

The Edge Theatre & Arts Centre, Chorlton M21 9JG Art Beans 4 – 5pm / Ages 5 – 7 / £5 per session, including all craft materials. A happy, calming, creative environment where children can have fun, relax and create. These sessions encourage children to use their wonderful imaginations and to express themselves creatively by taking part in a number of artistic tasks, ranging from drawing, painting, and paper work making! Book your ticket on www.ticketsource.co.uk/artbeans artbeansmcr.tumblr.com/theedge

Event City Digital Kids Show The very best in tech toys and family games plus amazing family activities for 7 hours of fun, laughter, thrills and spills. Watch and meet your favourite YouTubers and enjoy a special live performance by the UK’s biggest street dance group, Diversity! www.digitalkidsshow.co.uk

Sat 18 Nov – Tues 2 Jan

Dunham Massey Runaway Rudolph 10.30 – 3.30 / All ages / £2 per trail, normal admission applies. Rudolph with his nose so bright, has suddenly vanished out of sight... A magical herd of deer return to Dunham Massey this winter and there’s a chocolate reward if you find all eight of them, including Rudolph! www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ dunham-massey

Sun 19 Nov

Hazel Grove High School Mum2mum market 2.30 – 4.30pm / £2 entry (kids free) Looking for a second-hand pushchair, preloved baby clothes and toys? All top quality brands in great condition for babies and children up to age 6.

Tues 21 Nov – Sun 3 Dec, Fri 8 – Sun 10 Dec, Fri 15 – Sun 17 Dec, Sat 23 Dec

Tatton Park, Knutsford The Twelve Days of Christmas 11am – 4pm / Adult £10, Child £6 (age 4 – 15), normal park entry applies. Count down to the big day and learn the secret symbolism behind this well-known Christmas carol when you take a magical journey through the festive Christmas Mansion. 01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Fri 24 Nov & Fri 22 Dec

Octagon Theatre, Bolton 3pm & 4.30pm / £5 per child (1 free adult). An afternoon of storytelling where little ones will be transported on a literary journey of fun and adventure – meeting all of their favourite characters, read aloud by an actor from the Octagon Company.

Nov: Gorilla by Anthony Browne and The Tiger Who Came to Tea by Judith Kerr.

Dec: Father Christmas and The Snowman by Raymond Briggs. www.octagonbolton.co.uk

Sat 25 Nov

Lime Square, Openshaw Christmas Lights Switch On 5pm www.lime-sq.co.uk

Families Manchester 21

What’s on Fri 24 Nov – Mon 1 Jan

Magical Lantern Festival Philips Park, Manchester A magical experience with life-size and larger-than-life lanterns in all shapes and forms, from ‘Penguins on Ice’ and ‘Ancient Temple of Heaven’ lantern to a magnificent ‘Footballing Lantern Recreation’ celebrating the city’s love affair with the beautiful game. Also fabulous entertainment with a food and drink area, Santa’s Grotto (additional charge), a handful of fairground rides for children and merchandise marquee where visitors can buy a souvenir of their experience to take home. www.magicallantern.uk

Weekends from Sat 25 Nov – Sun 17 Dec, Wed 20 – Sun 24 Dec

Great Northern Warehouse, Deansgate, Manchester Elf Adventure Challenge Various times / Ages 2 – 10 + grownups / £12pp Booking essential. Interactive, Festive Family Fun. Take part in Elf tasks and games. Join in with the music, fun and story and when you complete your challenges successfully you will earn a certificate and the title of ‘Honorary Elf”. www.elfadventurechallenge.com

Sun 26 Nov

Denton West End Library Christmas Tree Light Switch On 5 – 7pm. Festive entertainment and refreshments. Switch on at 6pm. www.facebook.com/ DentonWestEndCommunityLibrary Dukes Drive, Monton, Salford Get Twiggy with it!

1 – 3.30pm / All ages / Free. Do you know how to tell the age of a tree? or measure how high it is with your feet still on the ground? Well, now’s your chance to find out! Join us and our friends from City of Trees at this family fun day to celebrate how truly wonderful and magical trees are. Try your hand at leaf art, make a natural wreath decoration, learn about trees with Professor Jigget and get down and twiggy with it! www.est1761.org

Wed 29 Nov – Sun 7 Jan Quarry Bank Mill, Styal A Georgian Christmas 10.30am – 4pm / Free (normal admission applies). Wed 29 Nov – Sun 10 Dec – the family prepares for Christmas while the apprentices remain hard at work.

Wed 13 – Sun 24 Dec – A Georgian Christmas.

Tues 26 Dec – Sun 7 Jan - Twelfth Night Celebrations www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank

Sat 2 Dec

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Sat 2 & Sun 3 Dec

For The Love Of Sci-fi 2017 Bowlers Exhibition Centre, Trafford Park Boldly going where no other convention has gone before! Get up front and close with the world’s biggest actors and experience jaw dropping life size prop and set builds and much more.

We are pushing the boundaries of what to expect from a convention! www.fortheloveofsci-fi.com

Sun 3 Dec

Ellenbrook Village Christmas Carols 4pm / Free. Join Ellenbrook and Boothstown Brass Band for an early evening Christmas carol sing-a-long and Christmas lights switch on. A family friendly event. www.salford.info Stanfield Drive, Boothstown Christmas Carols 5pm / Free. Ellenbrook and Boothstown Brass Band team-up with Churches Together for a wonderful evening of carol singing. www.salford.info

Mon 4 Dec

Chimney Pot Park Carol Service 4 – 5pm / Free. A wonderful evening of carols from local school choirs as the sun sets over Langworthy. Heart warming hot drinks will be served.

Please dresss warmly! www.salford.info

Sat 9 Dec

Bury Art Museum & Sculpture Centre Winter Wonderland 10am – 4.30pm / Free entry, small charge for some activities. Celebrating all things Christmas including print making, a festive Thank Art drawing event and much more! www.buryartmuseum.co.uk

Sat 9 & Sun 10 Dec

Bents Garden and Home, Glazebury Festive Family Fun Weekend A magical weekend of special treats, including real Reindeer. www.bents.co.uk

Sat 16 Dec

Food Sorcery Cookery School, Didsbury Big and Little Cooks – Christmas Special 3 – 6pm / £90 for adult and child (includes all ingredients) – £20 per additional child. An inspiring afternoon cooking (and eating) a meal together with your child(ren) or soon to be teenager.

0161 706 0505 / www.foodsorcery.co.uk

Tues 19 Dec

Tatton Park, Knutsford Deer Feed and Trailer Ride 9.30 – 10.30am / Age 4+ / £8pp, booking essential. 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.

01625 374428 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

The Fusilier Museum, Bury Christmas Crafts & Carols 10.30am. Make tree decorations inspired by the beautiful stained glass window at the Fusilier Museum whilst listening to Christmas carols performed by local choirs. www.fusiliermuseum.com

Sat 23 Dec

Bury Art Museum & Sculpture Centre Kids Craft Table 2 – 3.30pm. Themed craft sessions for accompanied children. www.buryartmuseum.co.uk

Thurs 28 & Fri 29 Dec

Tatton Park Christmas Carols in the Stableyard 3pm / Normal admission applies.

Festive carols with a live band, shopping and dining in the Stableyard. 01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk Bolton Steam Museum Christmas Open Steaming Days 10am – 4pm / Free (donations welcome) The largest selection of steam engines in the UK in action which have been carefully restored. www.nmes.org familiesonline.co.uk