Families Cheshire Issue 55 Sept-Oct 18

Cheshire In this issue: Make the best of Open Days Foraging with kids Is your child sport ready?

Issue 55 Sep/Oct 2018

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News Tough Woofer: fun for you & your dogs

Save the date! Sunday 30 September is the first doggy event ever organised by East Cheshire Hospice (ECH)! Tough Woofer is a fun 5K obstacle course at Capesthorne Hall, Macclesfield, for you to enjoy with your four legged friends, including up to 15 different obstacles including water, mud and climbing challenges.

Enter as a human (min age 8) and dog (min 1 year) team for

£35 or on your own (£25) if you don’t have a dog but would like to participate with family or friends.

Your entry pack will contain a T shirt and bandana and you’ll receive a medal when you finish.

As your entrance fee only covers the cost of the event, you are asked to try to raise at least £30 of sponsorship. Every penny goes directly towards providing Hospice care.

On the day there will be a range of different stalls selling dog treats, accessories etc, a mini agility course, a doggy shower and pampering area to treat the dogs who have finished the course plus plenty of food and drink for everyone.

It promises to be a fantastic day out for the whole family! www.eastcheshirehospice.org. uk/toughwoofer

Only half of pre-school children being read to daily

The number of toddlers being read to daily has dropped by 20% since 2013, according to recent research.

The annual Understanding the Children’s Book Consumer survey from Nielsen Book Research found that while 69% of pre-school children were read to daily in 2013, that figure had now dropped to just 51%.

Next issue: Nov/Dec 2018 Circulation: 30,000 copies of Families Cheshire are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected shops and other points throughout Cheshire. If you would like free copies for your organisation, please let us know.

Contact details: Families Cheshire, 3 Hall Hill, Bollington SK10 5ED Tel: 01625 801 801 www.familiesonline.co.uk Editors: Jayne Keep & Caryl Hall Editorial: editor@familiescheshire.co.uk 2 Families Cheshire

The study found parents complained of obstacles preventing them from reading to their children. Nearly a fifth said it was hard to find the energy at the end of the day, whilst 16% said their child would rather do other things.

One in five parents don’t feel comfortable in bookshops, and nearly half are overwhelmed by the choice of children’s books.

The publisher Egmont, which co-funded the research, said the decline correlated with an increase of almost a fifth in the proportion of toddlers watching online video content daily, and warned that the “steep decline” in reading to young children “signalled a significant threat to child development, with potential long-term social impact.”

More info at www.egmont.co.uk Advertising/artwork: advertising@familiescheshire.co.uk Events, diary dates, what’s on: events@familiescheshire.co.uk Cover Photography: Deposit Photos 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

Get Trucking this September

Truckfest – Europe’s Premier trucking event – returns to Cheshire Showground on 15 & 16 September.

A great day out for all the family – including hundreds of trucks on display from giant American rigs and jaw dropping customised trucks to emergency service vehicles of all shapes and sizes. Non-stop action in the main arena will keep the masses entertained with high

octane car crushing action courtesy of Swamp Thing 4 x 4 and air defying FMX stunt bike displays from James Dylan’s Stunt Show.

Meet children’s TV characters as well as Ice Road Trucker , Todd Dewey and burn off some energy on the inflatables, exhilarating fun fair rides, mini monster trucks and much more. Tickets from www.truckfest.co.uk

Two thirds of children not safe in cars

Parents are being advised to check their children’s car seats after a new study found that two in three children aren’t safe while travelling.

The What Car? study, created in conjunction with specialist organisation Child Seat Safety found that 59% of children are sitting in car seats that have been incorrectly fitted or are inappropriate for them.

The survey on 3,000 seats, with and without children in them, held at random seat-checking events throughout the UK, revealed that 36% were incorrectly fitted in the

car, while 33% of those that had children in them weren’t suitable.

Many of the mistakes were said to be “simple and easy to avoid,” and included tightening seat belts, incorrect head restraints or harnesses being in the wrong position.

In the UK, children are legally required to remain in a car seat until they are either 12 years old or at least 135 cm tall, whichever comes first.

More info at www.gov.uk/ child-car-seats-the-rules

Families Cheshire 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 Cheshire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Cheshire. Every care is taken in

the preparation of this magazine, but but Families Cheshire, 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. @FamiliesChesMag facebook.com/FamiliesCheshire

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News A fantastic day out for all the family

At the Anderton Boat Lift there’s so much to discover!

Take a river cruise along the River Weaver Navigation, enjoy a guided boat trip through the lift or simply explore with free entry into the coffee shop, interactive exhibition, gift shop and grounds. PLUS… the kids will love the impressive adventure play area, built to replicate the lift itself.

Back with a bang this Autumn, Anderton Boat Lift host their annual firework display which

promises to be the best yet! The display will take place on Saturday 27 October where guests can watch explosions of colour light up the night sky above the picturesque River Weaver and majestic boat lift.

And new for this year; get your adrenaline racing at the on-site fairground! Ride the mesmerising Miami, get spooked out on the ghost train, bounce the night away on bunjee trampolines and much more. All of this PLUS a fully licensed bar, wholesome food, glow in the dark gadgets and live entertainment. Don’t miss Cheshire’s most thrilling firework display!

Tickets can be booked in advance at a discounted rate via visitchester.digitickets.co.uk 01606 786777 / www.andertonboatlift.co.uk / Twitter @andertonlift

Plenty of fun at Brio!

Brio centres are bursting with fun all year round with lots to keep the kids entertained. From swimming lessons and wet ’n’ wild to junior gym session and topsy tumbles – they’ve got activities for all ages! Be sure to check out their Holiday Fun guides throughout kids holidays, when theyput on extra sessions to keep the kids busy and active!

And don’t forget the entertainment on offer at Brio too!

The Land of Nod at Northwich Memorial Court (Tues 30 Oct, 2pm) explores the struggle of bed time but the bliss of sleep - full of laughter, singing and surprises!

The highly energetic tribute Black Magic: The Little Mix Show at Ellesmere Port Civic Hall (Wed 31 Oct, 7pm) will get the crowd going following in the footsteps of the biggest girl band to come out of X Factor, Little Mix. All shows are bookable at www.brioentertainment.org or 0333 666 3366.

Beware the Zombies!

Help defeat the evil King of the Otherworld Join in Delamere’s Zombie Run this October – a 5km run through the spooky and eerie Delamere Forest on Sunday 28 October at 4.30pm.

It’s guaranteed that there will be zombies in the forest, and that doesn’t just mean running behind you....! You’ll need to keep alert!

Enter online now at www.run-dash.co.uk – your online entry will include a T-Shirt to wear whilst you run as well as some zombie treats.

Early entries (before October) are £12 per adult and £9 per child (age 5+).

Babies prefer hearing voices of other babies MythFest is a magical, outdoor adventure, immersing families in storytelling, music and natural crafts with local mythological creatures from the wild waters of North East Wales.

It’s an opportunity to become part of an amazing new story where you can create powerful objects out of natural materials in the woods, channel your ancestral magic and help to defeat the King of the Otherworld and ultimately save the world!

Myth Fest Wales was created by a collection of small rural businesses in North East Wales.

“We picked the local myths and folklore mixed them in a pot, added a sprinkling of modern-day foibles, a sustainable message and a pinch of irony, and out came a memorable and original battle

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of good versus evil, dark versus light, boy meets girl and a bit of ‘he’s behind you’!” said Vanessa Warrington who is managing the project.

“Our first two events in June were a triumph and everyone loved the experience. The next two gorgeous locations are Bodpetryal near Ruthin (on Sun 16 Sept) and Northop, just off the A55 (on Sun 30 Sept).”

Tickets for these 2 events (10am or 2.30pm each day) are on sale now from www.mythfestwales.co.uk.

There’s also an opportunity to win 1 of 4 family tickets worth £30 each if you like their facebook page (www.facebook.com/ MythFestWales), tag a friend and comment ‘I believe’. Winners will be announced on Monday 10 Sept.

Recent research has revealed that babies appear to be much more interested in listening to other babies than they are listening to adults.

Researchers from McGill University and the University of Montreal conducted experiments on 5 month old babies. By using a synthesizer that simulates movements of the mouth, tongue, and vocal cords, they were able to produce vowel sounds that mimicked human voices. The babies displayed a clear preference for the synthetic baby voices, listening to them for 40% longer, on average, than the adult voices.

“This doesn’t mean mum or dad should give up oohing and aahing in high voices“ says Linda Polka, a professor at McGill

University. “Babies do respond to these kinds of sounds. However, infant speech captures and holds infant attention, sometimes prompting positive emotions. This may motivate infants to be vocally active and make it easier to evaluate their own vocalisations, perhaps energising and supporting spoken language development.”

More info at www.sciencedaily.com

Families Cheshire 3

Education Making the best of Open Days year 5 (when your child is nine or ten). You can then revisit the schools you are most interested in with your child the following year.

Independent schools often hold Open Days throughout the Autumn and Spring terms. They can have waiting lists for Reception-age children or require children to take a school-specific 7+ or 11+ exam to gain a place, so you need find out the criteria for entry to the school and visit well in advance.

This autumn, state and independent schools will be opening their doors to prospective pupils and their parents to give them a flavour of life at their school. Claire Winter has the lowdown on how to get the best out of these Open Days and tours.

What is an Open Day? School open days help you decide what school you want your child to go to. During an open day, prospective parents are shown around the school, often on a school day, to give them a flavour of the working life of the school and the school environment. You will be able to see the children in lessons and talk to the teachers and pupils.

Sometimes pupils are given the task of showing parents around the school. This is a great opportunity to ask them how they enjoy being

at the school. How settled, relaxed and confident these children are can give you an idea of how happy the children are there. Usually, the head teacher or a senior member of staff also gives a talk which includes a general overview of the school and its values and ethos. This is often followed by a presentation by the head of admissions or the relevant head of the section of the school (for example, head of reception, or sixth form).

When are they held?

State schools generally hold Open Days in September and October aimed at children and families looking for a school place for the following year. It’s a good idea to start looking a year in advance. So, if your child is starting school, start looking at schools when they are three. If you are looking for secondary school places, start looking in

How are Open Days organised?

Schools organise Open Evenings as well as days to allow working parents to visit the school too.

Some schools (mainly independent) hold Open Days on a Saturday.

All schools put a lot of care and organisation into the events and they all want to show their school in the best light. However, there may be a lot of people attending so do be sure to turn up on time and follow the school’s directions during the event.

Tips for visiting an Open Day • Take your child with you. There’s no point in falling in love with a school only to find your child doesn’t want to go there.

• What is your general feeling about the school? Your gut reaction is very important. Do the pupils look happy and engaged?

• Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Make sure you ask the pupils what they think of the school.

• Don’t make decisions on individual teachers. They often move on and large departments have a variety of teachers that will rotate every year to teach your child a particular subject.

• If your child has a particular interest in a subject, make sure you visit the department and look at the kind of work they will be doing.

• What extra-curricular activities do they have? Are there clubs that will engage your child and allow them to pursue a broad range of interests?

While exam results aren’t everything, every parent wants their child to do well. Academic performance is a top priority for many families. It’s a good idea to see how the school is performing compared to other local schools, using exam league tables and Ofsted reports.

If, after all your initial visits, you are still undecided, go back and visit the schools on your shortlist again during a normal working day.

Finally, in making your decision, don’t be afraid to trust your instincts; you know your child and you are best placed to ascertain what is right for them.

If your child is older, do take account of their preferences too and include them in the decision-making process. The best decision will undoubtedly be the one you all agree on.

More than third of parents think homework is unhelpful According to a recent Ofsted report, more than a third of parents said homework isn’t helpful to their children in primary school. Many parents said homework was a huge cause of stress for the whole family and had a negative impact on home life.

Nearly three quarters of parents thought allowing children more time at school to plan and get ready for lessons through research was a better alternative to homework.

Parents gave some very clear messages about homework,

4 Families Cheshire

both negative and positive.

Those who spoke positively said that homework enables them to feel part of their child’s learning and that it helps them to support that learning with other activities, such as visits to museums and home projects.

The discipline, planning and time management skills that homework gives children were welcomed and homework was viewed as a way of promoting independent learning.

More info at www.gov.uk/ government/publications/ ofsted-parents-panel

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Education A recipe for educational success!

Developing and nurturing self-confidence, encouraging pupils to ‘have a go’ and providing a fascinating and rigorous curriculum; these are all key ingredients to ensuring that your child has the best possible learning experience at Alderley Edge School for Girls.

The foundations set in the Early Years department and primary school can have a huge influence on how a child views education and will influence their mindset as they progress into senior school, to university and beyond.

The school recognises that children are individuals and will develop and flourish at different ages, and so their curriculum and its delivery has to have the

flexibility to accommodate this; providing reinforcement and opportunities for consolidation whilst challenging their developing minds, encouraging them to question ideas and to experiment in their learning, realising that we don’t always get things right the first time!

“A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new.” - Albert Einstein AESG is aware that it’s vital to never be too content in thinking it’s developed the perfect programme of work for its pupils.

The curriculum is reviewed and updated constantly, enabling the best possible learning experience for those entrusted to their care.

A holistic approach to the education of their children along with an exciting, challenging curriculum, ensures that each individual can be nurtured and encouraged to reach their potential.

Alderley Edge School for Girls is celebrating its best ever results at ‘A’ level this year, with well over three quarters of all results having been awarded at the highest A*- B grade.

Headmistress Helen Jeys is delighted at the results and commented, “As we are approaching our twenty year

anniversary, I am thrilled that these are the best results so far for the school. The girls have worked so hard and have shown determination and resilience in the face of some very challenging new courses.

I couldn’t be more proud of them and the support offered to them by the staff at AESG.”

Visit the school at their upcoming Open Days: Whole School Open Evening – Thurs 4 Oct 6.30 – 8.30pm Whole School Open Day – Sat 6 Oct 10am – 12.30pm Year 6 Taster Day – Fri 23 Nov www.aesg.co.uk

A uniquely nurturing environment Queen’s believe there is no other school which approaches the holistic development of each and every girl in same way or achieves the same levels of success.

A robust and bespoke approach to teaching and learning exists which extends and develops talent while encouraging stretch for all its pupils.

The Queen’s School in Chester is a school like no other; parents refer to it as a magical environment which every child should have the chance to attend, pupils talk about a sense of belonging and inspectors rated it excellent in every category.

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To find out more go along to one of their Open Days: Lower School Open Morning: Sat 29 Sept 9.30am – 12.30pm Senior School Open Morning: Sat 13 Oct 9.30am – 12.30pm Sixth Form Open Evening: Wed 17 Oct 6.30 – 8.30pm Register Online: www.thequeensschool.co.uk

Families Cheshire 5

Education Header Investing in Education

Abbey Gate College, Chester feels passionately that their pupils deserve the best that they can offer in all areas of their education.

Therefore, building new facilities to improve their experience and opportunities is an essential aspect of creating stimulating teaching and learning environments.

As part of the school’s vision to provide outstanding sporting opportunities, a new Sports and Teaching Pavilion and state-ofthe-art all-weather pitch have recently been built, increasing the range of activities offered to pupils and improving wellbeing.

In addition, a new Foundation and Infant School building opening in September, with three spacious classrooms all with covered outdoor areas, a library area, and a space

for Learning Enrichment will provide an idyllic environment for younger pupils to learn and grow.

In continuing to provide inspiring, modern facilities, plans have been approved for two fully-equipped, cutting-edge science laboratories and a new Sixth Form Centre with seminar classrooms and personal study zones.

Forty years from its inception the College continues to grow by investing in the future and most importantly remains firm to its promise to bring out the best in each child according to individual potential.

For more information or to arrange a visit contact 01244 564170 or admissions@ abbeygatecollege.co.uk

New Head at Stockport Grammar School

Experienced, enthusiastic and highly regarded in the education world, Dr Paul Owen has made the short journey relocating across the Pennines from Sheffield to become Head of Stockport Grammar School, following the retirement of Andrew Chicken.

Paul joins Stockport Grammar School from Birkdale School in Sheffield where he was Head Master from 2010. Growing up in Hampshire, Paul attended a large comprehensive school in Fleet before winning a scholarship to Winchester College. He studied Physics at Cambridge University and stayed on to gain a PhD in Low Temperature Physics.

After a spell in industry, Paul discovered that he enjoyed teaching and held various academic and pastoral posts at Wellington School in Somerset.

He and his wife Gail have three children, his daughter has recently graduated from the Royal Northern College of Music, his eldest son is studying at Cambridge University and his youngest son has just joined Stockport Grammar School. A continual

enjoyment of learning is a central part of Paul’s life, particularly through reading, travel and theatre, and he has wide interests in sport and music.

Paul says, “I am delighted to be joining such a successful school with a holistic approach to education. The keen academic ambition, the warmth of the community and the huge range of extra-curricular opportunities really impressed me when I visited. Stockport Grammar School is clearly committed to educating the whole person, so that the pupils gain excellent examination grades as well as growing in character, fully prepared to flourish in adult life.”

The School’s Chairman of Governors, Christopher Dunn, is delighted by Paul’s move to Stockport Grammar School, describing him as: “A highly regarded educationalist with extensive experience of school leadership. He is exceptionally well qualified to lead Stockport Grammar School and to build on the School’s successes whilst maintaining our essential ethos.”

Upper Sixth pupils at the school recently had cause for celebration with over 51% of all grades awarded at A* and A and 80% of results awarded at A* to B this year. Their excellent results will see them heading for courses at the country’s most highly respected institutions, including nine confirmed places at the universities of Oxford and Cambridge.

6 Families Cheshire

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Education

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Families Cheshire 7

Parents’ place Foraging with kids...it’s not just about the plants!

By Adele Nozedar

You don’t have to be a foodie to have noticed that foraging has become a ‘thing’ lately. Many restaurants and gastropubs now employ their own forager, an expert who knows where all the wild goodies grow, who has a specific brief to select the best wild ingredients - leaves, blossoms, roots, shoots (and not forgetting fungi and coastal plants) to grace the plates of lucky diners.

8 Families Cheshire

Food like this, although wild and free, does not come cheap.

You’re paying for the expertise of the forager, his or her knowledge of the land and its edible treasures, as well as hours of attention to making sure that each tiny leaf or flower is perfect.

Believe me, I have nothing but admiration for the chefs and restaurants who employ foragers. But foraging is not new. Human beings and the

plant world have had a relationship for thousands of years. Are you wearing cotton?

It’s a plant. Do you ever take aspirin? Made from a plant. Do you like marshmallow? It was once a plant! The truth is that human beings always have been foragers and always will be.

I feel sorry for today’s children, since, like it or not, they are born into a world of screens. Children tend not to play outside in all weathers and at all hours as they used to. Kids still play together, but the nature of that play sadly errs towards the sedentary.

This is where foraging comes in. It’s an activity for all ages that by definition can only take place outside. In noticing the common wild plants which surround us in our search for those that are edible, we connect easily and effortlessly with the real world, away from the lure of screens for a few precious hours.

Over the past few years, I have taken out thousands of people on foraging expeditions but my favourite groups are ones with children. These are the walks that teach me the most. On one such walk a boy of about 5 insisted on leading the way. I said that was fine so long as he gave us a name for every plant he wanted to point out. After meandering down a path a little way, we came to a nettle. The boy couldn’t quite remember the name but improvised beautifully, ‘Ladies and gentleman, this is a needle plant!’ he cried. And he was right; ‘nettle’ and ‘needle’ are closely related, and indeed, to ‘nettle’ also means to annoy – very appropriate!

Being able to single out an edible and tasty plant from what initially seems to be a sea of greenery is particularly empowering for kids, who love to show you their finds. Think dandelions, wild garlic, elderberries, cleavers, sorrel, hairy bittercress. Keep it simple. Start in your garden or local park to see what you can find. Once you start to look, it’s hard to stop.

But how to start foraging?

Kids love equipment, and whilst you don’t need much, there are a few “props” that will help. Here they are, in no particular order.

• Something in which to put your treasures - a basket, a cloth bag or even a tub will be fine. Avoid plastic since it makes plants ‘sweat.’

• Decent footwear • Wet weather protection, just in case • A magnifying glass, to look closely at your finds (it’s amazing how something as small as a daisy will look like another world when examined closely!) I prefer a small jeweller’s loup, which costs approximately £2.

• A good foraging book (guess which one!)

Start as close to home as possible.

If you’ve a garden, great. If not, head for the nearest park or green area. Rather than searching for something specific, look around to see if there’s anything you recognise. Remember that the plants you’re looking for can be so common that you don’t even notice them.

Above all, let the kids take the lead. If they want to run around and stop foraging for a while, that’s absolutely fine and all part of the plan! You might find that little and often is the way – forage on the walk to school, maybe. Above all, this experience is meant to be something that you and your kids are going to love for the rest of your lives so introduce it at a pace that suits you all.

Top five plants you’re most likely to find all year round • Greater Plantain • Nettles • Dandelions (flowers in spring/ summer, leaves all year round) • Chickweed • Hairy bitter cress Adele Nozedar has recently published Foraging with Kids, a fun, informative and practical introduction for children and their grown ups to learn about foraging together. It is published

by Watkins Publishing on 20 September, RRP £12.99.

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Parents’ place Remember, Remember the 5th of November…!

Your guide to Guy Fawkes night

By Olivia Malaure

Gunpowder, treason, and plot I see no reason why gunpowder treason Should ever be forgot.

IT’S

MOMENTS

The ‘plot’ was simple - to blow up The Houses of Parliament with barrels of gunpowder hidden in its cellar.

Guy Fawkes was given the job of lighting the fuse but, on 5 November 1605, the plot was discovered and he was taken to the Tower Of London and executed.

To celebrate his own survival, King James 1 ordered his people to light a great bonfire every year on the night of 5 November.

You don’t have to go far to be part of the crackle and fizz of Bonfire Night. New local fireworks events pop up annually, whilst the biggest bonfire extravaganzas, are firmly cemented in the calendar.

Many schools hold organised fireworks displays but if the idea of being outdoors with very young children on a cold November evening sends a chill down your spine, here are some ideas to help you enjoy Bonfire Night at home.

Start with a bang: Kids love listening to the popping of microwave popcorn that they can munch on.

Add some colour: Make a rocket!

Wrap silver paper around an empty kitchen roll tube and stick down.

Cut out a circle of coloured card (approx 9cm) and make a cone shape. Tape the cone to the top of the cylinder. Decorate the cylinder with stickers and stick strips of red or orange cellophane to the bottom for flames. Kids can fly their colourful creations around the garden!

Bonfire baked potatoes: Cook up edible bonfires! Fill jacket potatoes with child-friendly toppings. Sprinkle some Red Leicester cheese on top for flames, or put the fire out with a spoonful of creme fraiche on top!

Light up the night sky: Kids love torches and they’re a fun, safe way for them to play in the dark and enjoy the atmosphere of Bonfire Night.

LIKE THIS!

IT’S MOMENTS LIKE THIS!

Bonfire Night Safety Did you know that sparklers burn at 200 Degrees Centigrade - 5 times hotter than cooking oil?

Whether you’re planning sparklers in the garden or a full-blown bonfire and fireworks, here are some simple tips to keep you safe this Bonfire Night.

• Sparklers should not be given to children under 5 • Keep a bucket of cold water outside in case of burn injuries • Children can be sensitive to loud noises; consider investing in a pair of ear defenders.

• If you are planning to let off fireworks, consult the Firework Code at www.rospa.com • Keep pets indoors. Animals have acute hearing and loud noises disturb them • Remember, the safest way to celebrate Bonfire Night is to attend an organised display.

IT’S MOMENTS LIKE THIS! 365 Days Of Fun!

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11/12/2017 12:20 Families Cheshire 9

Clubs & classes Is your child sport ready?

By Raymond Vestibule

Physical activity is good for children of all ages and participation in organised sports may be an enjoyable way for children to be physically active. However, sporting activities must be developmentally appropriate foryour child. Enrolling your child in a sport or activity beyond their developmental ability can lead to frustration and early dropout.

Ages 2 to 5 Toddlers and pre-schoolers may be beginning to get the hang of many basic movements but are too young for most organised sports. So, at this age don’t stress too much if your little one isn’t enrolled in a dozen different activities. According to the Mayo Clinic, toddlers who participate in organised sports typically don’t gain any long-term advantage in terms of future sports performance.

At this age, unstructured free play is usually best. Try running, tumbling, throwing, catching and swimming.

Ages 6 to 9 As children get older, their vision, attention span and transitional skills, such as throwing a ball for

Turn your child into a pocket Rokit!

Fun Fun Fun! That’s what one of the younger members of our team had when they attended a Rokit performing arts session.

Taking part in the Freshman class (age 4–6) it was fun from the start with games followed by poetry, singing, dancing and drama.

Learning choreography and the words to a current pop song, all the children were encouraged to

get involved by an enthusiastic and supportive teacher, who gave direction and coaching without the children even realising they were being taught. The session ended with a drama game involving the children pretending to be everything from a washing machine to a Kangaroo!

Next door we took a sneak peak at the Sophomore class (age 7-16). Here the children were learning stage combat as well as improvisation skills, being given two minutes to come up with their own toothpaste commercial. We were really impressed by how they performed with real confidence and creativity. The

distance, improve. They’re also better able to follow directions.

Consider organised activities such as running, football, gymnastics, swimming, tennis and martial arts.

Ages 10 to 12 By this age, children have mature vision and the ability to understand and recall sports strategies.

Children of this age are typically ready to take on complex skill sports, such as football, basketball, hockey and volleyball.

As well as considering whether a sport is age-appropriate for your child, take into account how much they will enjoy the activity based on their maturity and abilities. Your child may show a natural preference for one activity over another, which shouldn’t be ignored.

Remember children change as they grow and it’s normal for them to show a keen interest in one activity one year, only to

switch to another by the next.

Keep monitoring their level of interest and stay involved with their progress. Be positive and encouraging by emphasising effort and enjoyment over winning and never try to persuade your child to continue with a sport they clearly don’t enjoy, whatever age they are.

For more information visit www.mayoclinic.org/healthylifestyle and www.nhs.uk/ change4life

drama session ended with practice sessions for the LAMDA exams which Sophomore students are able to take in the Spring term should they wish. Following the drama session Sophomores then took part in a performance session where they were enjoying singing and dancing to a piece they had recently learnt.

In both classes the children learn not only key performance skills but also respect, listening skills and how to work as part of a team.

If your child would like to learn how to perform in a fun, creative and supporting environment then classes are available in Hale, Knutsford, Wilmslow and Macclesfield.

For full details see the website www.rokitperformingarts.co.uk.

Rugbytots – a truly distinctive experience Rugbytots is the world’s favourite rugby play programme. It’s a dynamic weekly play session where boys and girls aged 2 – 7 develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment.

Free taster sessions are available with Rugbytots SE Cheshire & Staffordshire Moorlands in Macclesfield, Alderley Edge, Congleton, Biddulph and Poynton.

For more information call Alick on 0345 313 6720 or email www.rugbytots.co.uk

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!

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Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment.

For more details, just call or email:

0345 313 6720 alick@rugbytots.co.uk

and near Alderley Edge AS SEEN ON

rugbytots.co.uk facebook.com/rugbytotssecheshire

The world’s favourite rugby play programme

10 Families Cheshire

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Clubs & classes Top tips for choosing classes, activities & clubs

By Elisabeth Dolton

• Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the range and volume of activities, classes and clubs available for your child to join?

Aside from the important issue of LOGISTICS, i.e. how are these activities going to fit into your schedule, how do you go about deciding what to choose?

Here are my top tips: • Talk to your children, explain how many activities you think there is time for and find out what they are interested in pursuing.

• Let them choose at least one class, activity or club themselves.

• Help them choose activities that reflect who they are and what they want to learn and don’t impose your own preferences.

• If you have a reluctant child,

•

• •

•

•

explain that it’s important and fun to try new things, but don’t insist.

Remember that moving from one activity to another is normal amongst children.

Always consider the benefits of an activity. For instance, there’s great value in discipline-based activities that create a quality product over a period of time and teach value skills such as leadership and team work e.g. putting on a play.

Don’t assume that high cost equals high quality.

Ensure staff members are professionals with relevant skills and experience.

Consider the mix of activities.

The benefits of exercise are huge, so try to include a sport.

If you are stuck between two similar activities, consider the usefulness, e.g. drumming lessons might be cool, but the guitar might have wider applicability. Good luck!

Razzamataz Theatre School Chester

Looking for new classes that your little ones can get involved in this school year? Look no further!

Razzamataz Theatre Schools offer exceptional training in dance, drama and singing with exciting opportunities to perform. They believe that every student should have the opportunity to

be energetic, gain confidence, make friends and have fun!

Razzamataz has a FREE taster day on Saturday 15 September, so if you’re aged 4 – 18 and want to get involved in performing arts in a funky, fresh and vibrant atmosphere, Razzamataz is the place for you!

They pride ourselves on the quality and affordability of their tuition, and offer an amazing 50% sibling discount on your second child or your third child goes free!!

Contact Chloe: chester@razzamataz.co.uk / 07514 624222 / www.chester.razzamataz.co.uk or follow her on Instagram: @razzamatazchester

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PRE & POSTNATAL PILATES Visit us at 1 Lowe St, Macclesfield SK11 7NJ or email info@innerstrength.co.uk / crossfitsilk.co.uk for more information / to book your free trial today familiesonline.co.uk

Families Cheshire 11

Parties A birthday to remember

By Robina Cowen

DIY or the full shebang? Leisure centre package, experience day or all round to yours? When you’re planning your child’s celebration, factors to take into consideration include your child’s age and interests, the size of your house (and credit card limit), and your stamina levels. Here are some pros and cons to help you work out what type of party would suit you best.

Home party Pros: the DIY approach is great for babies and toddlers - adults usually outnumber the children.

Cons: not necessarily the cheap option you might imagine, especially if you go for an entertainer. You need plenty of room, tables and chairs. It takes at least a day to buy and make the food and then there’s clearing up afterwards.

Tip: under-threes are too young for games or magic shows, but if you want to push the boat out, music and face painting go down well.

Party in a hall Pros: the mess is not at home! You could invite the whole class and have a magician or a dance party (check the venue’s rules on noise), a bouncy castle or soft play equipment. Many halls are used by playgroups during the week.

You can often hire the toys and equipment for a small fee.

Cons: large parties and big rooms can be overwhelming for little people. Do hire some professional entertainment. You start out grumbling about the cost; by the end of the party, you’re kissing their feet.

12 Families Cheshire

Tip: if you’re short on helpers, visit www.familiesonline.co.uk to find manpower. Childminders, au pairs or nursery nurses are often willing to help out at babysitting rates.

Leisure centre or indoor playzone package Pros: a really cost-effective, stress-free way to put on a party.

Some deals include venue, entertainment, food and party bags all-in. There’s no clearing up, just pick up your over-excited child and the presents, and head home.

Cons: some offer such a good deal that the whole class is there every weekend - sometimes twice in one day!

Activity party (eg bowling, makeover, drama, trampolining) Pros: popular with 7-10s, who are too cool for puppets but still need to be entertained. The activity can create the going home present.

Cons: when you write the invitations, remember not everyone shares your child’s passions. She may adore streetdance but will some friends mob it up?

Sleepovers Pros: inexpensive and hugely popular, especially with those into double figures.

Cons: ration sweets and veto violent video games or you’ll have tantrums and tiaras all night long.

Keep an eye on the action: I have lost my nerve since a seven year-old and his friends decided to pee into balloons and make ‘water bombs’.

Perhaps you should dig out that old baby listening device?

Tip: don’t forget the golden rule: invite more than four children and at least one will be sick.

Experience days Pros: a brilliant solution when they have outgrown parties and you have outgrown sleepovers, but you still want a special celebration with lasting memories.

Cons: cost means this will probably be a solo event, or a day shared with just one friend.

Ooh, the politics!

Tips: Into the Blue and Experience Days offer a good range of children’s activities including scuba diving, segwaying, and supercar or rally driving experiences www.intotheblue.co.uk www.experiencedays.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s on

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

One Festival. Two Weekends.

5000 Free Events For the first time ever, England’s biggest festival of heritage and culture will take place across two weekends in 2018.

Heritage Open Days, 6 – 9 and 13 – 16 September is an annual celebration of England’s architecture and culture that allows visitors free access to historical landmarks that are either not usually open to the public, or would normally charge an entrance fee. Co-ordinated nationally by the National Trust with support from the People’s Postcode Lottery, it brings

together thousands of organisations and properties across England.

With a theme of ‘Extraordinary Women,’ this year’s festival will offer visitors more opportunities to discover the secret history of their towns, villages and countryside.

There are hundreds of activities for kids, including dressing up, woodland walks, and railway rides. Best of all, every single event is FREE! For up to date information on events taking place near you visit, www.heritageopendays.org.uk

Here’s a tiny taster of what’s happening in the North West:

Throughout Sept

Chester Zoo Wild Worlds at Chester Zoo Experience head turning moments, breath taking experiments and pop up performers! Celebrate the amazing 21,000 incredible animals and brilliant gardens! www.wildworlds.chesterzoo.org

Fri 7 Sept & Fri 5 Oct

Grosvenor Museum, Chester ‘Quiet’ Afternoon 3 – 4.30pm / Drop in, suggested donation £1.50 Aimed at those who enjoy a ‘quieter’ visit to the museum, including people living with autism and their families and carers. Hands-on activities to engage all ages and abilities. www.westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Sat 8 Sept

Dunham Massey Herbie the Hedgehog Trail Help Herbie the Hedgehog get ready for hibernation with a trail around the gardens. Solve the trail and collect the prize at the end. www.nationaltrust.org.uk Lyme Park, Disley Lyme Bark 11am- 3pm. Free event (usual admission applies). A celebration of all things canine.

Spoil your furry friends with our doggy fun day! www.nationaltrust.org.uk Liverpool Pier Head Cancer Research UK – Shine Liverpool Shine Liverpool is Cancer Research UK’s first 10k night walk in the city, bringing people together to light up Liverpool and fund life-saving research. 0300 123 6624

Sat 8 Sept

Museum of Policing in Cheshire, Cheshire Constabulary, Warrington 10am – 4pm.

Let the kids play at being policemen and women, with the chance to see inside police cars and vans, hear the police band drums, and dress up in capes and helmets for photographs. There’s also the mystery of the missing prisoner to solve, and an amazing collection of policing artefacts from around the world.

Sat 8 & Sun 9 Sept

Cheshire Military Museum, Chester 10am – 5pm.

Take a look at Cheshire’s Military past from the 17th century to the present day.

A family friendly activity will be available for children.

Sat 8 & Sun 9 Sept

Sun 9 Sept Sat 8 & Sat 15 Sept

Clayton Hall Living History Museum, Friends of Clayton Park, Manchester 11am – 4pm.

With dressing-up costumes for children, the Hall is a hands-on experience for all ages! Standing on a Scheduled Ancient Monument site, this moated building offers visitors a glimpse into the past with the kitchen, dining room, cold store room, wash house, bedroom and drawing room all dressed to represent a Victorian home.

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Manchester Museum Autism Friendly Early Opening 9.15 – 10.30am / Free, drop in. Activities take place before the Museum opens to the general public and there will be a quiet room available too. See objects, do activities & make creations inspired by one of the Museum’s galleries.

For ages 5-16 with a parent or carer and siblings welcome. www.manchester.ac.uk

The Stockport Plaza Super Cinema and Variety Theatre, Stockport 10am – 4pm Wannabe actors and actresses can tread the boards at this historic venue, with a behind the scenes look at areas not normally open to the public.

Visit dressing rooms and the projection suite, and hear performances on the 1930s cinema organ!

Sun 16 Sept

Mickle Trafford Mill, Chester Guided tours run by a member of the volunteer team. There is also an historic building investigation session for young people: Ages 5 – 10 (10am – 12pm), Ages 11 – 15 (1 – 3pm).

Booking essential: 07947 384935

Overwater Marina, Audlem Audlem RNLI Festival Lots of fun for all the family in aid of the RNLI. Join us at this two-day festival with events including Boatshare, Raft Race, Dog Show, stalls and lots more! www.overwatermarina.co.uk

Thurs 13 Sept

Bramall Hall Bramall babies sensory stories 11.30am – 12.15pm / £6 per baby, max 2 free adults, booking essential. The session begins with a sensory story and moves onto free time to explore our Tudor-themed play stations. A fun and exciting way to develop all your baby’s senses. Suitable for babies who are not yet walking. 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Fri 14 & Sat 15 Sept

Liverpool Echo Arena The City of Liverpool Tattoo The line-up of performers for this great spectacular includes a host of amazing performers and military bands including those from the British army, massed pipes and drums, local

and overseas silver, pipe and flute bands, the City of Liverpool Highland Dancers and The Imperial Corps Of Drums Liverpool. www.echoarena.com

Sat 15 Sept

Chester Zoo International Red Panda Day Join our Zoo Rangers to celebrate these amazing animals with a special talk at the Red Panda habitat. Free drop-in session (normal zoo admission applies). www.chesterzoo.org Lymm Fire Station Fire Station Open Day The station will host activities and demonstrations, all raising money for The Fire Fighters Charity. A fantastic day out for your little Fireman Sam fans! www.cheshirefire.gov.uk Arley Hall and Gardens Firework Champions Three of the UK’s best firework companies will compete against each other with a 10 minute firework display, choreographed to music, followed by a finale by organisers MLE Pyrotechnics. www.arleyhallandgardens.com

Sat 15 & Sun 16 Sept

Sefton Park, Liverpool Liverpool Food and Drink Festival Back for its 11th year, you can join celebrity chefs who will be present to herald the city region’s exceptional food and drink scene. There will also be an area for children to enjoy as well, so there is something for everyone! www.sales.webticketmanager.co.uk Tatton Park Harvest Festival at the Farm A chance to celebrate the annual harvest by joining in with the Farm’s very own harvest festival. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sun 16 Sept

Tatton Park Pride in the Park Picnic Bring your picnic, friends and family and join us in the gardens for a day of music and general fun. www.tattonpark.org.uk Wilmslow Fire Station Fire Station Open Day The station will host activities and demonstrations, all raising money for The Fire Fighters Charity. A fantastic day out for your little Fireman Sam fans! www.cheshirefire.gov.uk The Live Rooms, Chester 2 – 4.30pm / Ages 0 – 8 and families ‘Superheroes’ party with Derek Kaye Family fun for the post-rave generation of parents. Derek Kaye will be providing the (grown-up) dance tunes for family raving together on a dancefloor with confetti cannons, bubbles, giant balloons and an awesome parachute dance finale. Craft tables with themed crafts, large colouring-in mural and playdough tables. Play area with tents and tunnels and baby chillout space with mats, toys and small ball pool. Free transfer tattoos and glowsticks. Licensed bar. Facepainter stall and snacks available. Optional fancy dress: ‘Superheroes’ www.bigfishlittlefishevents.co.uk

Families Cheshire 13

What’s on Tues 18 Sept – Sat 24 Nov Palace Theatre, Manchester Matilda The Musical With original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda The Musical is the story of an extraordinary little girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny. Winner of over 85 international awards, including 16 for Best Musical, Matilda The Musical continues to delight audiences. www.atgtickets.com

Fri 21 & Sat 22 Sept

Liverpool Empire Theatre Teletubbies Live Join Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po in a show full of love and laughter as they explore the magical world of Teletubbyland. Look out for the Tubby Phone, Noo-noo and the Sun Baby in a fun, bright and safe world which captures young children’s imaginations and encourages them to explore the world around them. www.atgtickets.com

Chester Racecourse Chester Comic Con With some great guests lined up you can expect even more from this year’s Comic Con, from talks and trade stands to attractions and Cosplay. www.chestercomiccon.co.uk

Mon 24 Sept

Chester Zoo World Cassowary Day 10.30am – 12pm, Free drop-in session (normal zoo admission applies). Join our Zoo Rangers at Manado Town, Islands 10.30 – 12pm to celebrate all things cassowary. We’ll have fascinating artefacts and activities to do with these amazingly strange birds. www.chesterzoo.org

Sat 22 Sept

Chester Zoo World Rhino Day Free drop-in session (normal zoo admission applies). Join our Zoo Rangers at the Tsavo Black Rhino habitat to celebrate all things rhino and their conservation. Fascinating rhino artefacts and activities. www.chesterzoo.org Congleton Fire Station Fire Station Open Day The station will host activities and demonstrations, all raising money for The Fire Fighters Charity. A fantastic day out for your little Fireman Sam fans! www.cheshirefire.gov.uk

Sat 22 & Sun 23 Sept

Arley Hall and Gardens The Great British Food Festival Returning to Arley Hall for the fourth year and bringing with it amazing artisan producers, scrumptious street food and brilliant bars, all within the stunning grounds and gardens! Children can try their hand at a cookery lesson before going off to make giant bubbles and learn some circus skills! www.arleyhallandgardens.com

Sun 23 Sept

Rossmill, Hale Barns Wild Food Walkabout Join the Bollin Valley Rangers for a foraging walk in the Bollin Valley looking for fruits, seeds and flowers that can be easily found in the garden or the countryside. Suitable for children over the age of 6. www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangers Festival Hall, Alderley Edge Arty Alderley Silent Disco Our Kids Social are back in Alderley Edge for a wonderful event to enjoy with your family. Blast away the back to school blues and come on down for a fun filled afternoon for families of all ages. www.ourkids.social 14 Families Cheshire

Sat 29 & Sun 30 Sept

Stretton Watermill Victorian Harvest Weekend 12 – 5pm / £3 (mill visit), free activities Celebrate the traditional harvest with apple pressing (bring your own), butter making, corn dollies, recipes, music, and ‘the wonders of the bicycle’. This delightful end to the season captivates all who experience the romance of the mill. www.westcheshiremuseums.co.uk Buxton Opera House Teletubbies Live 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.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

Sun 30 Sept & Mon 1 Oct

Fri 21 – Sun 23 Sept

intu Trafford Centre Diversity Ignite A Street Dance Circus Spectacular!

Ignite is an exciting fusion from the best of the world street dance, Diversity, and some of most incredible circus performers from around the world to create something audiences have never seen before. www.intu.co.uk/traffordcentre/events

for charity or just for the fun of it! The course is spectator friendly for supporting family & friends and a fun & relaxed atmosphere is guaranteed. www.uktriathlon.co.uk

Wed 26 – Sun 30 Sept

Manchester Arena Cirque Du Soleil – Ovo A colourful carnival of crazy crickets, amazing ants and flexible fleas, OVO uncovers the natural world at our feet.

Crawling with fun, OVO is a non-stop riot of energy and movement featuring many of Cirque du Soleil’s mind-blowing signature acts including a stunning 14m high flying trapeze act – the biggest of its kind! www.eventim.co.uk

Thurs 27 Sept – Mon 8 Oct Albert Square ManchesterManchester Food & Drink Festival A programme of events and happenings all over Manchester featuring collaborations with a huge breadth of the city’s most talented foodies. From beer brewers to ice cream makers, from chefs to gin distillers. www.foodanddrinkfestival.com

Fri 28 - Sun 30 Sept

Victoria Park, Southport British Musical Fireworks Championship Southport’s sky bursts into light as some of the country’s top pyrotechnic teams compete, with stunning firework displays synchronised to music, to try and win the prestigious industry title of UK Champion of Champions. www.visitliverpool.com Event City, Manchester Baby and Toddler Show The UK’s biggest and best, featuring over 150 brands and unique products at the best prices, alongside expert advice for new parents. www.babyandtoddlershow.co.uk

Sat 29 Sept

Chester Fire Station Fire Station Open Day The station will host activities and demonstrations, all raising money for The Fire Fighters Charity. A fantastic day out for your little Fireman Sam fans! www.cheshirefire.gov.uk Barony Park, Nantwich UK Kids FUN Duathlon Join hundreds of kids taking part in the North West UK Kids Fun Duathlon where they will be run, bike, running perhaps

The Brindley, Runcorn The Gruffalo’s Child - Presented by Tall Stories Join the Gruffalo’s Child on her adventurous mission in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the much-loved picture book. Songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3+ and their grown-ups. www.thebrindley.org.uk

Sun 2 Oct

National Trust yard behind The Wizard, Alderley Edge Down the Mines!

Join Derbyshire Caving Club for a trip down the old copper mines of Alderley Edge. Helmets with lamps provided, but please wear old clothes. Age 6+. www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangers

Thurs 4 Oct

Tatton Park Toddler Kiddy Cook What better way to teach your toddler where food comes from? www.tattonpark.org.uk

Thurs 4 – Sun 7 Oct

City wide across Liverpool and Wirral Royal De Luxe Giant Spectacular Autumn sees the return to the Mersey of those daring and ingenious magicians from the world’s leading street theatre company, Royal de Luxe, with a new story to awe and enchant the hundreds of thousands of people who are guaranteed to flock to see the Giants walking our streets once more. www.giantspectacular.com

Thurs 4 – Wed 24 Oct

Across Southport Southport Comedy Festival With 18 days of laughter, The Festival promises to be the biggest and best yet with more TV names, more venues and even more events including the fantastically popular Comedy Pub Crawls supported by Southport BID. www.southportcomedyfestival.com

Fri 5 Oct

Grosvenor Museum, Chester Quiet Afternoon A chance for those to visit who enjoy a ‘quieter’ visit to the museum. Ideal for people living with autism and their families and carers. www.events. westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

Bramall Hall Dragon club 10am – 12pm / £8 (max 2 free adults), booking essential.An exciting developmental discovery session for children aged 2 to 5 with stories, play and exploration in the Hall and park. 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Fri 5 – Sun 7 Oct

The Lowry Guess How Much I Love You Join Little & Big Nutbrown Hare, from the bestselling ‘Guess How Much I Love You’ and ‘I Love You All Year Round’ collection, as they leap off the page and onto the stage in this magical journey through the seasons. www.thelowry.com

Sat 6 Oct

Tatton Park Kiddy Cook Bring your children along to pick fabulously fresh ingredients from the walled gardens and cook two delicious recipes in the Victorian kitchen. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sat 6 & Sun 7 Oct

Event City, Manchester The Family Pet Show Are you passionate about pets and their families? With four zones for all types ofpets and fourareaswhereyou can watch, learn, play and have a go - this is a date for all pet lovers! www.eventcity.co.uk East Lancs Railway Day out with Thomas Thomas really moves! The Little Blue Engine will be steaming along his own private section of track and hauling passengers at regular intervals throughout the weekend. He sets off every 20 minutes or so, so don’t worry about missing out! www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Sun 7 Oct

Tatton Park Apple Day Join in games and children’s activities and taste delicious apple varieties from Tatton’s historic orchards! Apple goods will be on sale in the shop and restaurant. www.tattonpark.org.uk The Lowry Singalonga - The Greatest Showman The smash hit film musical that everyone can’t stop singing - The Greatest Showman! www.thelowry.com Widnes Fire Station Fire Station Open Day The station will host activities and demonstrations, all raising money for The Fire Fighters Charity. A fantastic day out for your little Fireman Sam fans! www.cheshirefire.gov.uk

Tues 9 - Sat 13 Oct

Liverpool Everyman Theatre FUP FUP is a big-hearted, uproarious modern fable about family, love and nature set in a weird and wild Cornwall.

Featuring live, foot-stomping music, quacking puppetry and Kneehigh’s infamous eccentricity and charm, FUP is a story like no other. www.everymanplayhouse.com

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s on

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

Wed 10 – Sun 14 Oct

Manchester Arena Disney On Ice presents Dream Big High-flying jumps, breath-taking skating and lovable Disney friends. www.eventim.co.uk

Sat 13 Oct

West Park, Macclesfield Welly Walk and Nature Needs You 1am-3pm. Bushcraft, storytelling teepee, birdbox making, welly trail and much more! www.cheshireeast.gov.uk

Sat 13 & Sun 14 Oct, Sat 20 – Sun 28 Oct

Reddish Vale Country Park, Stockport Screamania 12 – 6pm (children), 6 – 10pm (adults) A Halloween attraction featuring live actors, spooky maze, special effects, slime making, a spooky treasure hunt with a difference and children’s activities. www.screamania.com

Fri 19 Oct

Dunham Massey Cobweb Crafts Join in the Half term holiday activities with spooky cobweb weaving in the dairy. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Sat 20 Oct

Tatton Park Family Cooking at the Farm We’ll help you to make vegetable curry and delicious flatbreads, along with a delicious pizza, dough balls and homemade garlic butter! www.tattonpark.org.uk Tegg’s Nose Country Park Fungal Foray at Tegg’s Nose Country Park A short stroll around the park to discover all the fascinating species of fungi that grow in the park, with experts from the North West Fungus Group. Children go free. www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangers

familiesonline.co.uk

Manchester Art Gallery Open doors 9.15am – 12.15pm, drop in A series of creative, sensory activities especially aimed at autistic children aged 5 – 16 and their carers..

0161 235 8869 / www.manchesterartgallery.org

Brereton Heath Local Nature Reserve Visitor Centre, Congleton Halloween Trail Can you find all of our spooky visitors at the Nature Reserve this half term?

Pick up a map from the visitor centre and get searching around the park! www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangers

Thurs 25 – Sun 28 Oct

Sat 20 - Sun 28 Oct

Sun 21 Oct

Fri 26 Oct

Gulliver’s World Monster Magic at Gulliver’s World Experience Monster Magic at Gulliver’s World! Discover lots of awesome activities and attractions to make this trail a real treat. Don’t miss out on a trip to Leonard’s Scare School or prepare for a Wicked Costume Party on park.

You will also have the chance to enjoy the Swizzels Trick and Treat Trail. www.gulliversfun.co.uk

Sat 20 – Wed 31 Oct

Stockley Farm Park Spooktacular Fun on The Farm Our (not so wicked) Witch will be taking residence in her spooky house, ready to play trick or treat with those brave enough to venture in, you can carve your own pumpkins to take home (and we’ll clear up the mess!), take part in our fabulous fancy dress competitions, and enjoy a few treats (or tricks!) along the way! www.stockleyfarm.co.uk

Sat 20 Oct – Fri 2 Nov

Blakemere Village Magical Woodland 2018 Adult £14.95 / Child (4 – 14) £12.50 / Family (2+2) Free, under 4s free An interactive light and music experience with live performances set in a 15 acre Cheshire Woodland. www.blakemerevillage.com

Tatton Park FungalPunk Dave’s Fungus Foray All are welcome on this fun and unique walk, where you’ll discover the mysterious fungal world. www.tattonpark.org.uk

Tues 23 & Wed 24 Oct

The Brindley, Runcorn The Return of Neverland Peter Pan and Tinkerbell are struggling to keep the spirit of Neverland alive.

Over the last thirty years the magic has all but ceased to exist. With nothing to fight for and no adventures to be had, Neverland has come to a standstill with no hope of revival.

Could this all be about to change? www.thebrindley.org.uk

Thurs 25 Oct

Llangollen Railway A Day Out With Thomas 10am – 5pm. A fun-filled event where you can take a ride with Thomas, meet The Fat Controller, ride in Rickety and Clarabelle as many times as you like.

Take the Big steam Engine or Daisy the Heritage rail Car to Carrog to the puppet show. A fantastically FUN Family Event! www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk/ llangollen

The Atkinson, Southport Southport Halloween Festival With great performances, spooky surprises and frights round every corner, the town turns spooky for a half term full of monstrous fun for families! www.visitliverpool.com Tegg’s Nose Country Park Tales of Terror – The Festival of Fear Join our ghostly hosts for a family night of phantom fun with ghoulish games, ghastly goings on and a torchlit walk in the park. The night will end with a hot drink and a spooky snack... if you survive that long! Dress to impress for the creepy catwalk. www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangers

Fri 26, Sat 27 & Wed 31 Oct

East Lancs Railway Children’s Creepy Craft Workshops Join Bury Transport Museum for a drop in Craft Workshop and become a mad scientist and fashion your own freaky monster face to wear on your trip on the haunted Halloween Ghost Train.

Halloween Ghost Trains Are you brave enough to board the Halloween Ghost Train? Take a ride to Rawtenstall and back alongside a host of hideous haunters and giggling ghouls. www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Sat 20 Oct – Sun 4 Nov

Blakemere Village Zombie Trail 10am – 4pm (10.30am weekends) / Ages 4 – 11 / £3 per trail. Follow Blakemere’s spooky trail to discover the hidden items left here by the Zombie Pirates many years ago. Activity Prize for each completed trail. Join in the Family Fun by dressing up as a Pirate. www.blakemerevillage.com Tegg’s Nose Tea Room, Macclesfield Halloween Trail Some spooky visitors are visiting the park this half term. Can you explore the park and find them all? Buy a map from the Tea Room and get searching around the top of the park. www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangers

Families Cheshire 15

What’s on Sat 27 & Sun 28 Oct

Tatton Park Pick your own pumpkin You’ll choose your own pumpkin, fresh from the field. Join us for a refreshing pumpkin juice and a yummy pumpkin muffin. www.tattonpark.org.uk National Waterways Museum, Ellesmere Port Halloween Monster Mash A trick or treat promenade performance for families to join in with from the Boaty Theatre Company. Visit the darkest corners of the exhibition rooms, encounter the mischievous character, solve the riddles, put a stop to “evil” plans and gain your reward, becoming a hero and saving the day in the process! Scarily good for all ages, although children will need to be accompanied by grown-ups. www.canalrivertrust.org.uk

Sat 27 – Wed 31 Oct

Tatton Park Haunted Halloween 11am-4pm last entry 3pm. Dare you enter the Old Hall at Tatton Park?

Join in ghoulish activities in the ancient grounds and hear spine tingling stories of haunted happenings. www.tattonpark.org.uk

16 Families Cheshire

Sun 28 Oct

The Brindley, Runcorn Milkshake Live – The Magic Storybook 12pm & 3.30pm. Set amongst Milkshake’s magical bookcase, this brand new live show is sure to amaze and delight! The Milkshake! cast will be singing songs and sharing stories that audience members, young and old, will know and love. www.thebrindley.org.uk

Mon 29 Oct

National Trust yard behind The Wizard, Alderley Edge Spooky Trip Down the Mines!.

Join Derbyshire Caving Club for a Halloween tour of underground Alderley Edge. Hear some of the stories of people who lived, worked and died there! Do you dare??

Age 6+. www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangers

Riverside Park Ranger Centre, Macclesfield Halloween Happenings Bring a pumpkin, a knife and nightlight to craft a lantern for a spooky walk down the park. Halloween crafts and activities with the Bollin Valley Rangers, spooky dress optional. www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangers

Tegg’s Nose Country Park Woodland Wizards Set out on a woodland quest with Nature Stuff. Look out for dragon footprints and dragon eggs, and help to make magic potions and a giant firebreathing dragon! www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangers

Llangollen Railway Halloween Train 6.30 – 8.30pm. How brave are you?

Join us if you dare! Spooky storytelling on the train as the train travels through the dark and creepy Dee Valley. Age 3+. Early booking essential. www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

Brereton Heath Local Nature Reserve Visitor Centre, Congleton Halloween Hoot Join Nature Stuff for spooky outdoor games, Halloween challenges and fangtastic fun for families! Booking necessary. www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangers

Sun 28 Oct – Wed 31 Oct

St Mary’s Creative Space, Chester Chester Wizard School An immersive Halloween experience for families. Learn spells, make potions and meet magical creatures in this spellbinding sell out event! Age 6+.

Limited tickets. www.facebook.com/ Chesterwizardschool

Tues 30 Oct

Wed 31 Oct

Tegg’s Nose Country Park Halloween Hoot Join Nature Stuff for spooky outdoor games, Halloween challenges and fangtastic fun for families! Booking necessary. www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangers Ellesmere Port Civic Hall The Little Mix Show A highly energetic tribute show that follows in the footsteps of the award winning girl band, Little Mix. Suitable for kids, tweens, teens and adults alike. www.facebook.com/ EllesmerePortCivicHall

Thu 1 – Sun 4 Nov

Buxton Opera House David Walliams’ Awful Auntie From the acclaimed producers of Gangsta Granny comes the world premiere of David Walliams’ amazing tale of frights, fights and friendship, featuring a very old car, a very large owl and a very small ghost! www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

Northwich Memorial Court Land of Nod 2pm / Age 3+. Where do we really go when we fall asleep? Moon On A Stick blend puppetry, captivating storytelling and an enchanting musical score in this star-light adventure. A magical, multi-sensory production filled with laughter, audience interaction, surprises and song. www.facebook.com/northwichmc

familiesonline.co.uk