families manchester issue 50 mar-apr 2015

FREEEdition 50 • Mar/Apr 2015 The local magazine for families with children 0-12 yearswww.familiesmanchester.co.uk

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

®MANCHESTER

In this issue> Happy Easter egg hunting!

> Childcare quiz - what’s best for YOU?

®

1990-2015

Hello!

Well our New Year’s resolutions were non-existent this year – we had a half-hearted think about the usual – giving up chocolate, doing more exercise, yawn yawn yawn. But now that the days are getting longer and lighter, we’re starting to regret our lack of willpower. The few summer clothes we have in our cupboards are going to put rather more flabby flesh on show than the general public will appreciate, and the chocolately onset of Mother’s Day, followed by Easter means that our willpower will once again be severely tested.

Despite this, we are full of hope that spring will bring some mental strength – new beginnings and all that. And if not…well, there’s always next year.

See you in May!

In this issue02: News04: Education07: Babies & childcare08: Clubs & Classes directory10: Party directory12: Parents’ place13: What’s on

Caryl Hall Jayne Keep

Next issue: May/June 2015

Circulation: 25,000 copies of Families Manchester are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected shops and other points throughout Greater Manchester. If you would like free copies for your organisation, please let us know.

Contact details: Families Manchester, 3 Hall Hill, Bollington SK10 5EDTel: 01625 801 801 www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Editorial: [email protected]/artwork: [email protected], diary dates, what’s on: [email protected] Cover photograpy: M&Co./www.PRshots.com

Design: Paul Wilson Graphic Design, Congleton.Tel: 07743 111 694, www.withpaul.co.uk

Print: Bishops Printers, Walton Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO6 1TR Tel: 023 9233 4900 www.bishops.co.uk

Families Manchester is part of the Families group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license.

We take every care preparing the magazine, but the publishers and distributors can’t be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences.

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News

2 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Announcing the 5th year of the pres-tigious Wicked Young Writers’ Award!

Get scribbling now for your chance to

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enter this competition, championed by Patron Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall and judged by a panel including Cressida Cowell, the hugely popular author of the How to Train Your Dragon series. The competition recognizes excellence in writing, while encouraging creativity and developing writing talent in young people aged between 5 and 25. The submission deadline is 18 April 2015; find out more at www.WickedYoungWriters.com

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This spring, delve deep into your bookshelf and read something you’ve never read before, in honour of World Book Day.

Throughout March and April schools, libraries and bookshops across the country are holding exciting events and workshops for young readers, plus you can register online for your free book token and choose from titles including Michael Morpurgo’s Best Mates and A Pirate’s Guide to Landlubbing by Jonny Duddle. Don’t

Remember to join in one of the UK’s most important and fun charity events on Friday 27 March by wearing a hat to raise funds for Brain Tumour Research. Schools

Get reading

Have you chosen your hat yet?

miss The Biggest Book Show on Earth at www.worldbookday.com, a series of short videos starring this year’s World Book Day authors, where you can hear them talking about their work. You can also design your very own National Book Token and have your design distributed to bookshops nationwide in time for Christmas. Competition closes 17 April 2015. It’s the biggest celebration of books across the world!

It’s also International Children’s Book Day on 2 April, the birthday of Hans Christian Andersen himself. International Children’s Book Day aims to inspire a love of reading from an early age, so check out the website to find out more about all of the events across the country (and the world!), including writing competitions and talks from famous authors and illustrators. You can also find out about a whole host of fabulous children’s books you may never have heard of at www.ibby.org/index.php?id=269.

and families play a hugely important role in raising awareness and funds for this life-saving research.

Go to www.braintumourresearch.org to register and receive your free fundraising pack. You can also visit their Hatter’s Workshop for all your hatty extras – like posters, quizzes, hat templates and merchandise order forms.

Let’s make 2015 the hattiest yet!

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

News

3

Real Nappy Week takes place 20-26 April this year - the real nappy community’s opportunity to celebrate everything fabulous about using cloth nappies.

Up and down the country retailers, manufacturers, cloth nappy libraries, local councils (and of course real nappy fans) will hold giveaways and events

Real Nappy Week 2015aiming to spread the word about why we love real nappies. They are a great way to save money, avoid waste to landfill and reduce your impact on global warming, plus you can save upwards of £500 by using real nappies on one baby, and even more when siblings come along. They come in a wide choice of fabrics, styles and colours, or you can even buy bespoke and personalise them! Make sure you discover the exciting things the real nappy community have planned, from nationwide events to local competitions, opportunities to meet people and get advice and a whole lot more at www.goreal.org.uk/real-nappy-week.

Running alongside all Tough Mudder and Mudderella events in the UK, and sponsored by Robinson’s Fruit Shoot, the Mini Mudder course has been designed by a panel of mini ‘mud experts’ who were recruited to draw the wildest, most adventurous obstacles they could think of.

With each obstacle designed to encourage the participants to explore their adventurous sides and have fun together while experiencing the power of teamwork, it will be challenging, but most importantly enjoyable for children of all abilities.

The mile long course is made up of four untimed laps and features 10 exhilarating obstacles including:

• The Tunnel of Terror: Who knows what’s inside as you slide up and through the darkened tunnels…grab friends and climb under, over, and through to the other side with your team!

Muddy good fun for your mini ones• Gooey Shoes: Get your shoes tied

tight and take a short to walk across a slimy, slippery surface without slipping, sinking or sticking to the ground! Make sure you move quickly or you’ll be stuck behind.

• Secret Agent Squeeze: Fancy yourself as an international boy or girl of mystery? Sharpen your spy skills and get a super stretch to try and slip through the cracks of the ‘laser’ maze.

• Mount Mud: Climb, slosh, slip, and squirm your way over the grand finale Mount Mud Hill, featuring an exciting Fruit Shoot slide into the mud to claim your headband after finishing the course.

Sign up for the Yorkshire event on Sat 1 & Sun 2 August or for the Cheshire event on 12 & 13 September 2015 by visiting www.fruitshoot.com/minimudder.


Education

Learning with Nature

Inspiring iPads

Sometimes we come across books that simply stand out from all oth-ers. Learning with Nature is one of these. This book offers a chance to both the youth of today and the nature of tomorrow.

It has a wealth of ideas of activities to do in nature: games, crafts, recipes,

Bolton School has now issued iPads to all pupils as part of its Foundation wide initiative and this includes Beech House, the infant school for 4–7 year olds, where each year group has a set of iPads for use during the school day. The older children in the two junior schools and the two senior schools have their own individual iPads.

Technology is changing the way that pupils learn and how they are taught and this is now being woven into the curriculum at Bolton School.

skills, woodcraft, tracking etc., with hidden learning clearly stated. Switch that computer off and allow children to breathe fresh air and engage personally with a real world where their minds and bodies can develop and bloom, burst into life and inspire them to love life.

Head of the Infant School, Mrs Debbie Northin, said “According to the new computing curriculum for 5 to 7 year olds, ‘Children will be learning what algorithms are, which will not always involve computers.’ We used to think of iPads, computers, Kindles and PCs as tools for learning but now children will learn how to make each device solve a problem for them and in doing so they will have to break down and analyse what’s happening and predict what might happen next.

The staff of Bolton School have embraced the new technology and are working hard to embed their safe use. We have found that rather than removing the need for collaboration and discussion, the iPad activities promote interaction between the humans using them and this emphasises the importance of an adult to plan, guide, encourage and yes, inspire.”

Learning with Nature£17.99 published by Green BooksFamilies readers receive a 30% discount with free delivery in the UK with voucher code FAMILIES2015 (valid from 1 March – 30 June 2015).www.greenbooks.co.uk/learning-with-nature The voucher code is valid for both the paperback and hardback versions of the book.

Advertise in Families Manchester

Call Jayne on: 01625 801801 or email

[email protected]

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Education

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Education


Babies & childcare

Childcare quiz: what’s best for me?

There are a whole host of factors to take into account in working out what childcare is going to be best for you and your child or children. Joanna Moorhead guides you through the questions you need to ask yourself - and offers a key to what kind of care your answers might point towards.1. How many children do you have? Different forms of childcare suit different

sizes of family, primarily for cost reasons. For example, even though some nurseries offer reductions for a second child your bill for two children is still going to be a lot more than it will be for one, whereas with a nanny the cost is the same whether it’s one child or three, because you pay for the nanny’s time.

SCORE 1 per child; plus 1 if there’s a high chance you’ll be pregnant again in the next 18 months

2. What ages are your children? The younger your youngest child is,

the more individually-tailored care you’re likely to need.

SCORE 3 if your youngest is under a year, 2 if he/she is under two years, and 1 if he/she is three-plus

3. Do you live in a rural or an urban area?

The more populous your area, the more childcare options there will be available, in terms of more nurseries, and a higher number of childminders. If you live somewhere really remote, hiring a nanny might be the only option.

SCORE 3 for a rural area, 2 if you live in the suburbs, 1 if you’re an urbanite

4. Are you a single parent? If so you’re likely to have less back-up,

but also a lower disposable income. SCORE 2 if yes

5. How much disposable income do you have?

The money you spend on childcare is less about what you’ve got left over and more about investing in your career for the future. But you still need to have some spare income to pay for it.

SCORE 3 if you have what you’d consider a high disposable income; 2 if medium; and 1 if low

6. Is your work predictable? Knowing you’re going to start and finish

work at the same time each day makes nursery a much more realistic option than if you’re likely to be called in to your workplace at the drop of a hat, or in the middle of the night, or if you might end up staying till the early hours with little or no warning.

SCORE 1 for yes, 3 for no7. Do you have a long commute? You need to add travel time to your

working hours, and if you’re commuting a long distance a nursery or a childminder might be trickier.

SCORE 3 for yes8. Do you have a spare bedroom? A live-in nanny needs a place to sleep;

though if you don’t have the space, you can still consider sharing a nanny who lives in the other family’s home.

SCORE 3 for yes9. Does your child have an allergy

or health issue of any kind? A health issue could make a nanny

the best bet, because her care can be concentrated on your child and all activities/meals/outings can be planned with your child at the centre.

SCORE 3 for yes

10. Are you a ‘laissez faire’ or a ‘controlling’ parent?

If you’re the kind of parent who’s going to be happy to leave your childcarer to make decisions on your behalf through the day, you’re probably going to be happier with a childminder or nursery setting than if you want to be able to lay down exactly what you want to happen while you’re at work.

SCORE 1 for laissez faire, 3 for controlling

Up to 10: Could a nursery be the right choice for you? Look round some of the nurseries in your area and see what your instinctive feel about them is. Nurseries provide more structured care that can suit many families, though it’s harder for them to cater for parents who work very long or unpredictable hours.10-20: Are you the perfect fit for a childminder? For families who like the idea of childcare in a different setting from home, with other children but with some flexibility on timings, this can be a perfect option - and childminders tend to be lower-cost than nurseries or nannies.20-30: If you have the space and the income, hiring a nanny means you can provide care that’s tailored precisely to your child or children. Plus if your family is still expanding, a nanny can be a cost-saver in the long term. Note: this quiz is simply a way to help you view your options slightly differently and is only meant to act as a guide. We cannot not guarantee that it will provide the correct solution for you!

Increase your chance of a restful night’s sleep

Focus on... Bath seat safetyPublic Health England has issued an urgent alert on bath safety, and especially the use of bath seats, following a series of deaths and near misses reported by London’s Child Death Overview Panels (CDOPs).

Bath seats have been implicated in each case, and according to reports, one in three deaths from accidental drowning in children aged 0–2 involve bath seats.

For many parents and carers, their child’s bathtime is a welcome part of the bedtime routine. Babies and young children love the water and bubbles and the chance to play and splash around.

However, babies can drown in just a

few centimetres of water, very quickly and with no noise or struggle. They cannot recognise danger and don’t have the strength to try to reach the surface. This means babies need constant supervision while in water of any description.

In one respect, bath seats are very useful pieces of baby kit. But they are not safety devices and can easily give parents a false sense of security. NEVER leave a baby or young child unattended in the bath, not even for a second.

For more information on keeping babies and children safe from drowning, visit the Child Accident Prevention Trust’s website: www.capt.org.uk

Sleeping bags, as well as being the safest way for your baby to sleep, can also minimise the amount your baby wakes in the night.

Slumbersac baby sleep bags ensure that babies remain at a constant tem-perature and eliminate the need for any other top covers.

They cater for a wide range of ages from newborn right up to 10 years old and come in 4 tog ratings (a measure of the thickness of a sleeping bag and therefore how warm it will keep your child). Slumbersac sleeping bags can also be machine washed and tumble dried.

View the range at www.slumbersac.co.uk

Clubs & classes directory


ARTS & CRAFTSBean & Brush Family art café in Sale offering arty clubs for all ages (children and adults) together with quality food and drink. Winner of Mamas & Papas Child Friendly Eatery 2012 award. 0161 973 2140 / www.beanandbrush.co.uk

Brookside Pottery Pottery painting for individuals or groups in Poynton.

07946 637499 / www.brooksidepottery.com

Creative Explorers Art classes in South Manchester run by a professional artist (currently four sessions a week – preschool Monday morning and Friday afternoon and after school Tuesday and Thursday 4 – 5pm). Extra sessions available by arrangement (min 5 children), as well as tailored art and craft parties. 0161 637 2257 / www.creativeexplorers.netParsley Pie Art Club Unique and quirky artists retreats for children in Hale, Whitefield and Stockport offering after school and Saturday classes as well as holiday workshops. 0161 904 9444 / www.parsleypie.comPottery Corner Paint-your-own pottery studio in Chorlton, catering for individuals, groups, parties or corporate team-building! 0161 882 0010 / www.potsareforpainting.co.uk

BABIES & TODDLERS Baby Sensory Sensory development activity programme designed specifically for babies from birth. Activities stimulate the senses and help your baby develop. Classes across Manchester.Didsbury, Sale & Bowden – Kerry: 07841 126945Trafford – Emma: 07545 161358Stockport & Cheadle – Lindsay: 07590 916004www.babysensory.co.ukLittle Monkeys Club, Marple BridgeIncrease 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-monkeysRhythm Time Early learning through music – for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers.Elton Bury, Greenmount & Whitefield – Janet: 07980 632033North Cheshire – Jane: 01270 529224South Manchester – Kimberley: 01625 533510www.rhythmtime.netSing and Sign Baby Signing Classes Bolton & Bury – Helen: 07881 507172 Warrington – Nicki 07852 155190 www.singandsign.comTinyTalk Baby signing and singing classes (0-18 months). Altrincham, Didsbury, Urmston & Chorlton – Andrea: 0161 980 3662Salford, Worsley & Swinton – 0161 943 7005 www.tinytalk.co.ukThe Baby Massage Company Touch, Learn, Love. Learn the art of baby massage, meet other parents in your area & most importantly form a close bond with your baby. Classes currently in Timperley, Hazel Grove & Bramall. Private sessions at your home also available. 07866 468245 / www.thebabymassagecompany.co.ukYogaBelliesKidz for Blissed Out Babies, Tantrum Free Toddlers and Kool Kidz! Plus fantastic Kidz Party Packages from £6.50 per head!Contact Angela on 07940 476 953 or [email protected]

Rock Out! Guitar, Drums, Bass, Keyboard and Vocals tuition for ages 7+ in Chorlton. Learn an instrument in a structured way while playing with other musicians every week. 0161 862 9634 / www.rockoutschool.com

PERFORMING ARTSGlasshouse Mini Children’s drama workshops with a difference for age 3+. Raise Self Esteem, Build Confidence, Improve Communication Skills, Work on life skills (speaking and listening, manners, taking turns, sharing, being kind). Classes held every Saturday during term time in Sale:9.15 – 11.15 ages 3-711.30 – 13.30 ages 8+Amy: 07983 420 058 / www.glasshousemini.co.uk Pyjama Drama Drama, movement, music and play for children up to 7 years. Stockport & Cheshire East, Trafford & Didsbury – Emma: 0161 820 2209. www.pyjamadrama.com Razzamataz, Chorlton Performing arts training covering a range of styles from traditional musical theatre to pop singing and street dance. Classes split into age groups 4 – 7, 8 – 11 and 12 – 18. Classes on Saturday morning at Chorlton High School during term time. Caroline: 07908 029207 / www.razzamataz.co.uk

Stagecoach Theatre Arts School Performing arts for ages 4 – 18.Altrincham – Marion: 01925 222445

Bolton & Bury – Ruth: 0161 763 6161Didsbury & Salford – Anne: 0161 789 1349Oldham – Kate: 01204 301320Stockport – Cathy: 0161 834 4274www.stagecoach.co.uk

SPORTS and ACTIVITIESBush Babies Outdoor multi-sensory play sessions for children under 5 (babies included) in Worsley. 01942 260545 / www.naturesden.co.ukTennis Tykes An educational tennis play and skills programme for children aged 2-5 years old. All classes are run by qualified and trained staff, use specially adapted equipment with personal achievement charts for every child. Classes across South Manchester and Cheshire. Jonny: 07760 254118 / www.tennistykes.co.ukGymbabes/Tumble Tots/Gymbobs Classes to develop children’s physical skills of agility, balance, co-ordination and climbing.Bramhall, Cheadle & The Heatons – Sue/Gill: 07851 268083 / 07800 532227Sale, Knutsford, Disbury, Hale & Timperley – Jane: 07812 144450 / www.tumbletots.com

Enjoy-a-Ball A fun sports programme that gradually develops skills such as concentration, coordination and confidence

in a caring, positive and fun environment. Classes for children aged 3-9 years packed with fun activities and games are held in Didsbury & Chorlton. Holiday camps and birthday parties also available. Contact Sam on 07973 886783, www.enjoy-a-ball.com

COOKINGCookie Tots & Kiddy Cook Unique kids cooking classes and parties exclusively designed for children aged 2 - 11 in Hale & Altrincham – Nikki: 07976 619648www.kiddycook.co.uk

Crafty Cooks A fun-filled cooking class for children from aged 2. Holiday and weekend workshops also available as well as after

school classes for older children, and parties for all ages. 07730 681798 / [email protected] / www.craftycooks.co.uk

Kayterfun Cookery session for little ones at Anchors Away indoor play centre, Stockport, on Fridays at 10.30 – 11.30am. No booking required. 0161 432 4020 / www.anchorsaway.org.uk

DANCEBaby Ballet A movement to music programme for pre-school boys and girls from 6 months. Bury & Bolton – Miss Jayne: 0161 280 3686Didsbury & The Heatons – Miss Laura: 07753 111753 / www.babyballet.co.ukDiddi Dance Funky dance classes for 2-4 year old boys and girls in Gatley, East Didsbury, Burnage, Heaton Moor, Bramhall, Cheadle & Poynton. Classes are designed to help your diddi ones enhance their co-ordination and rhythm and to nurture their natural love of movement in a structured yet relaxed 45 minute class. We teach 14 different dance styles from country to hip hop, Bollywood to disco! Lisa: 07966 542985 / www.diddidance.comJanNik Dance, Altrincham Children’s Dance Classes - a structured, non-competitive, and above all FUN way for your child to learn to dance. Freestyle dance using popular music the children are familiar with, making their Dance Lessons even more fun. Music they may have heard on the radio or television, or theme tunes to popular children’s films and series which they will instantly recognise and respond to. 07896 230945 / www.childrensdanceclass.co.ukLesley Taylor School of Dance Ballet & Tap for girls and boys age 2+ in Sale, Cheadle, & Timperley. Free trial classes in Timplerley and Cheadle. 07702 808467 / 0161 483 1331 / www.lesleytaylor.netStarlight Theatre School Ballet, Tap and Modern Theatre for children of all ages in Bramhall. Anna: 0161 747 4074 / www.starlightschool.co.uk

LANGUAGELa Jolie Ronde HappyGoMonkey French is based on fun language learning using games, songs, puppets, dancing, role-play and other exciting activities. Classes run in schools, nurseries and open centres in central and South Manchester for babies to 11 year olds. Natalie Jensen: 0161 224 9952www.happygomonkey.co.ukLe Club Francais/El Club Español Fun language clubs for children age 4 – 11. www.lcfclubs.com

Talking Tots Fun, interactive classes that help your child communicate with confidence. These unique pre-school classes, which follow the developmental stages of language, are bursting with exciting activities and games designed to gently boost young children’s communication skills and social confidence. Three age appropriate classes which are suitable for children from 12 months to 4 years of age. For classes in Heaton Moor, Didsbury, Chorlton and Stockport contact Siân on 07794 433179 or email [email protected] / www.talkingtots.info

MUSIC & SOCIAL

Jabberjacks A learning and fun activity pre-school class which helps develop social and physical skills for children aged between 6 months and 4 years old. Parties for ages 2 – 7 also available. South Manchester – Nikki 07587 186284North Manchester – Gaynor: 0161 790 8080www.jabberjacks.co.uk

Jo Jingles Well planned and structured activities to develop children’s communication, listening skills and self-confidence.

High energy action songs, careful percussion playing, and exciting props to keep your child focused and having a great time. Age specific sessions from 3 months to 4 years, fostering a love of music in very young children.Manchester North – Jo: 01706 212889South Manchester – Jacqui: 01925 269136Mid Cheshire – Eve: 01928 739966North East Cheshire – Laura: 0161 431 0674

Jittabugs, Sale Activities, games and exercises to promote your child’s movement, balance and memory skills. Drop-in classes at the Waterside Arts Centre in Sale. Wednesdays (10am) or Fridays (10.15am). Tickets from the box office, £4 a session. Karen: 0161 973 2656 / www.jittabugs.comKiddiewinks / Babywinks Fun, interactive classes and parties for children from sitting to school age in Chorlton, Bramhall, Cheadle, Swinton and Didsbury. 0161 432 3624 / www.kiddiewinksonline.comKidsRock Fun music classes for children aged 0 – 5 in Bury, Radcliffe, Rawtenstall, Prestwich, Whitworth & Swinton.07855 733308 / www.kidsrockwithchris.comMusic Bugs Fun, friendly, interactive music classes (and parties) for newborn – 4 years. Classes in Cheadle, Hulme, Wilmslow, Hale, Sale & Knutsford. 0844 822 1175 / www.musicbugs.co.ukMusical Monkeys Musical entertainment and more for pre-school children aged 1+. First class free, and younger siblings under one welcome free of charge too! Classes in Sale & Timperley and coming soon to Altrincham and Lymm. 0161 976 5176 / www.musical-monkeys.co.uk RNCM Young Strings, Manchester Musical training and tuition on a stringed instrument for ages 5 – 11. Weekly classes from 4.30 – 6.30pm on Wednesdays or Thursdays during term time. No audition process - Young Strings is an open access programme. www.rncm.ac.uk

To be included or to update your details in our directory, please call 01625 801801 or email

[email protected]

Crafy cooks

Clubs & classes directory

9Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Little Superstars Unique, fun and active multi sport sessions for children from walking age upwards to develop their fundamentals i.e. balls skills, hand and eye coordination, balance, flexibility and agility. Why try one sport when you can do 14 different sports plus an obstacle course?! Call Louise:07904 344552 / www.littlesuperstars.co.uk

Physi-Ball A fun class for toddlers aged 18 months - 3 years aimed at developing core stability and gross motor

co-ordination. Perfect preparation for Enjoy-a-Ball classes from aged 3. Classes in Chorlton and Didsbury. Contact Sam on 07973 886783, www.enjoy-a-ball.com

Thingyblobs Fabulous fun filled classes for children aged 12 months up to school age. All sorts of great activities to stimulate, educate and entertain little ones. Classes run throughout term-time and you’re welcome to join at any time! Monday: Didsbury 10.30amTuesday: Sale 1.45pmWednesday: Bowdon 9.30 & 10.30amFriday: Timperley 9.30 & 10.30am We also do fabulous parties for children aged 2 – 7yrs. Louise 0161 442 9700 / [email protected] / www.thingyblobs.co.uk

Football Diddikicks Football coaching for 18 months - 5 years in Wilmslow, Worsley & Sale 0161 300 4665 / www.diddikicks.co.ukLittle Kickers Classes run in four distinct age groups, to maximise involvement and development. Age groups range from just 18 months to 7 years. South Manchester, Trafford & Stockport – Alex: 0161 442 5713 North Manchester – Andrew: 0845 224 9104 www.littlekickers.co.ukPlay Football Weekly football coaching sessions for 5-9 year olds run by Bury F.C Community Trust. 0845 459 2000 / www.playfootball.netLittle Sports Coaching Fun football coaching and Rhythmix dance sessions for boys and girls aged 3+ in Prestwich, Wilmslow, Cheadle, Droylsden, Woodley, Reddish & Sale. Sports, Dance, Football or Gymnastics party options also available. 0800 032 1806 / www.littlesportscoaching.co.uk

GymnasticsVernon Park Gymnastics Club, Stockport Classes for all ages and abilities: Pre-school sessions for 0 - 5 years.Recreational gymnastics: 4 - 16 years. Adult classes: 16+ 0161 406 0488 / www.vernonparkgym.co.uk Swimming

Puddle Ducks A wonderful swimming programme delivering nurturing, fun classes to over 9,500 babies,

toddlers and children across the UK every week. Babies and children can join our swimming classes at any age from birth, developing into confident swimmers without even realising they’re learning to swim. By engaging each child’s abilities and natural affinity with water, Puddle Ducks offer simple steps to a lifetime love of swimming. We recognise that every child is different: our fantastic teachers adapt each activity to suit each child, nurturing water confidence so that your child will become a happy little swimmer. Call 0161 883 0222 for classes in and around Manchester and Oldham and 01257 262622 for classes in East Lancashire. www.puddleducks.com

Water Babies Multi-award winning ASA approved programme which makes the most of your baby’s natural affinity with water, enabling babies and toddlers to swim underwater as well as on the surface whilst teaching confidence and safety techniques. The progressive toddler course seamlessly aids your child’s transition into mainstream swimming lessons. Water Babies, the start of something extraordinary. Classes available across South Manchester. 0161 312 0048 / www.waterbabies.co.uk

SkatingNevada Roller Rink Roller skating events and lessons at Burnden Sports Centre, Bolton. www.nevadarollerrink.co.ukSilver Blades Ice Skating rink in Altrincham offering skating sessions and lessons. 08700 85 29 29 / www.altrinchamicedome.co.ukSkate City, Hazel Grove Roller Skating and Roller Disco. Catered birthday parties and private hire also available. 0161 483 1898 / www.skatecitystockport.co.uk


[email protected]

SUPPORT11+ Online Tuition Online and home (Bolton based) one-to-one tuition for 11+ in English, Maths, Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning. Contact Rachel on 07407 643547, www.elevenplustutor-nw.co.ukAccess Success Entrance Exams (11+), Primary & Secondary (Maths and English) & PGCE QTS tuition by a qualified and experienced maths teacher who has taught in Trafford schools. 1:2:1 and small groups. 07580 856243 / www.accesssuccess-education.comExplore Learning Maths & English tuition centres for 5-14 year olds. Children become members and attend once or twice a week for sessions that last approximately 1¼ hours. Every centre is open 7 days a week, no advance booking necessary. Centres in Altrincham, Cheadle Hulme, Heaton Park and Bury. www.explorelearning.co.uk

Fleet Tutors Education solutions tailored to you, delivering proven results.0845 322 4696 /

www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

Kumon Maths and English tuition across Greater Manchester.Bury – Fran: 0161 408 4934 Bolton – Joanne: 01942 814899Chorlton – Jackie: 0161 434 4579Crumpsall – Masooma: 0161 900 9289Didsbury – Donna: 0161 718 9313Heaton Moor – Sue: 0161 431 4884Heywood – Anna: 01706 627874Levenshulme – Sharron: 0161 248 4899Prestwich – Susan: 0161 796 1587Rochdale – Robin: 01706 759352Sale – Hannah: 0800 854 714Timperley – Eliana: 0161 980 0851Urmston – Sharon: 0161 749 8177 Worsley – Cath: 01925 225960www.kumon.co.ukThe Academy of Sciences Home tuition inMaths and all Science Subjects at KS3, KS4and KS5. Maths and Science is delivered in away to make it easy and fun to learn by anexperienced and fully qualified tutor. Outstanding results for over 10 years. 07806 676166 / www.theacademyofsciences.co.uk

HeaderGiddy Goat Toys Traditional independent toy shop in Didsbury and online, offering a fantastic range of toys,

books and games for children of all ages.0161 445 1097 / www.giddygoattoys.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENTBaby Ballet Magical Party (ages 2 – 4) or Groovy Disco Party (ages 4 – 7).Bury & Bolton – Miss Jayne: 0161 280 3686Didsbury & The Heatons – Miss Laura: 07753 111753. www.babyballet.co.uk

Battlefield Live, Manchester. Exhilarating outdoor laser adventure game with birthday parties

for age 7+. 07956 557653 / www.battlefield-manchester.com

Crafty Cooks Fun-filled cooking parties for all ages 2+. 07730681798 /

[email protected] www.craftycooks.co.uk

Diddi Dance, South Manchester Fun, affordable parties for tots (2 – 4) at your choice of location - dancing games, action songs, hoops, dance ribbons, bubbles, balloons, bells and lots of fun!! 07966 542985 / www.diddidance.comEnjoy-a-Ball, South Manchester Great fun and games with plenty of action forgirls and boys aged 4 – 9 years.07973 886783 / www.enjoy-a-ball.com

Fizz Kids Popular parties for children aged 5 – 12 in the Cheshire or Greater Manchester area.

Whether you choose a Dance or Cheerleading party, we add lots of games and so much fun all in a disco atmosphere for 2 hours. The price of a Fizz Kids Party also includes invitations, a gift for each child and tattoos. We have been entertaining children for over 11 years and pride ourselves on our fantastic reputation for a fabulous party every time. Take a look at our 5 star reviews on our website or contact us to make a booking/check availability.Lorrayne: 07870 139361 / [email protected] / www.fizzkidsparties.co.uk

Gigglepop Art, themed or traditional parties in your home or choice of venue hosted by professional party leaders.07779 935638 / www.gigglepop.co.ukGo-Kart Party Bolton, Wigan & Bury – Tahir: 07702 237523North Cheshire – Elaine: 01925 712315South Manchester – Keith: 07592 317762www.go-kartparty.co.uk

Go Kiddy Karts, Didsbury & Urmston Indoor parties for boys and girls aged 4 – 9. 07956 557653 /

www.redmox-leisure.com

Jo Jingles Music, singing and movement parties for children up to 5 years.Manchester North –

Jo: 01706 212889South Manchester – Jacqui: 01925 269136www.jojingles.com

Jabberjacks Playmates parties for children aged 2 – 4, Junior parties for ages 5 – 7.South Manchester – Nikki: 07587 186284North Manchester – Gaynor: 0161 7908080www.jabberjacks.co.ukJittabugs, South Manchester Help your little one celebrate their big day with a Jittabugs party. Lots of singing and dancing, action songs, games, activities, instruments, coloured scarves, puppets, bubbles, parachute play, favourites of the birthday boy or girl and much more. Our parties can be done either at home, or a venue of your choice. (All equipment provided). Contact Karen Brownsell 0161 973 2656/ 07765 080 350 / [email protected] / www.jittabugs.comKerry’s Fun Faces Face painting, glitter tattoos, balloon modelling. 07813 297520 / www.kerrysfunfaces.co.ukKiddy Cook Cooking parties exclusively designed for ages 4 – 11, with options to suit everyone. 07976 619648 / www.kiddycook.co.ukKids Bee Happy, Salford & Bury Sand art painting for all ages. 07899 816344 / www.kidsbeehappy.co.ukKids Rock with Chris Musical party for children aged 1 – 5. 07725168330 / www.kidsrockwithchris.comLittle Sports CoachingSports, Dance, Football or Gymnastics party options with professionally qualified coaches for boys and girls aged 3+. 0800 032 1806 / www.littlesportscoaching.co.ukLittle Superstars Multi-sports parties across West & South Manchester, Rochdale, Heywood & Ramsbottom. 07904 311552 / www.littlesuperstars.co.ukLittle Fingers Arts & Crafts Fun, creative parties for children aged 2 - 9 years. Let them create a masterpiece to take home! Catering and free invitations also available. 07956 557653 / www.littlefingers-crafts.comLucia the entertainer Comedy led professional offering traditional party entertainment with a unique twist. Balloon Modelling, Ventriloquism, Face painting and magic also available. 0161 483 4363 / www.luciaparties.comMake A Wish Entertainment Make your wish for a perfect party come true. 0113 322 7988 /www.makeawishentertainment.co.ukMother Hen Creative Tailor made parties for ages 4 – 8. Interactive storytelling revolving around the birthday child – a jam packed fun filled magical, personal experience. 07587 191 394 / www.motherhencreative.comMusical Monkeys Musical entertainment and more for pre-school children aged 2+. 0161 976 5176 / www.musical-monkeys.co.ukParty Friendz Character entertainment & face painting for all occasions. Costume hire also available. 07963 763862 / www.partyfriendz.co.uk

Party Princess A huge range of party packages for ages 3+. Princess makeover, face painting and tattoos, cupcake decorating, arts, crafts games and loads more. Girl Glamour make over and pamper packages for ages 13+ 0845 241 7855 / www.party-princess.co.uk / www.girlglamour.co.ukPlay Football Professional staff with football,party food, certificates and prizes.0845 459 2000 / www.playfootball.netPremier FC parties The ultimate kid’s football party for children of all ages and abilities. 01625 415151 / www.premierfc.comScalextric Children’s Parties, Cheshire,Warrington & Manchester You hire the venue, we supply the Scalextric Party experience. 01928 732717 / www.scalextricchildrensparties.co.ukSplat Creative Crafts (messy or not) andgames galore parties across the North West.01477 532119 / www.splatcreative.co.ukTeddy Bear’s Workshop, Bolton Build-a-bear, pottery or jute bag parties. 01204-771013 / www.teddybearsworkshop.comThingyblobs Parties (and classes) packed full of wonderful exciting activities for ages 2 – 4 or 5 – 7. 1 or 2 hours packed full of activities and fun. No time to get bored, all games age appropriate. Small or large groups or mixed ages for any occasion. Party bags can be provided too. 0161 442 9700 / www.thingyblobs.co.ukTricky the entertainer For magic, fun, music and games. 0800 135 7911 / www.trickys.co.ukYogaBelliesKids Yoga adventure parties for children aged 3 – 8. Choose from The Ocean, Space or The Jungle adventures. Max 20 children.Angela: 07940 476953 / [email protected]

PARTY PLANNINGBig Top Parties All you need for a party - party hosts, children’s entertainers, fun food, birthday cakes and party bags. Bespoke theme parties or outdoor events and picnics for under 5s or 5 - 12 year olds. Catering for every occasion also available. 0161 478 8970 / www.BigTopParties.co.ukCheshire Cat Events Prestige children’s party planning for any age. 01625 460195 /www.cheshirecatevents.comLittle Tinkers Party Planners and Entertainers Options for big or small budgets. 01244 379294 / www.littletinkers.comMillie Moo Parties Unique Fun for Little People aged 3 – 11. Themed party packages that include everything you need from invitations to party bags and even finding a venue if needed. Or a bespoke service tailored to suit your individual budget and taste. 07812 064167 / www.milliemooparties.co.ukParty Perfect The perfect party solution provided by an efficient, creative and organised team. Children’s parties as well as all other celebrations. 07817 627808 / www.party-perfect.org.ukPink Spaghetti Efficient, affordable andapproachable party planning services.0844 504 7465 / www.pink-spaghetti.co.uk

ANIMALSAnimals In-Tuition Meet and handle a range of fascinating and interesting animals. Older children and adults can try a bush tucker trial.07791 153757 / www.animalsintuition.co.uk

Ranger Rob will arrive at the party venue, dressed in his full cowboy gear, with his slightly dodgy American accent!! He will bring a selection of our wild and wonderful animals to create an exciting journey, full of

fun and surprises. The children will have plenty of opportunities to touch and hold the animals - they can even have their photo taken if mum and dad are ready with the camera! We aim to make children’s parties one they’ll never forget! For more details and pricing info please contact Emma on 07592 262077 [email protected] / www.rangerrob.co.uk

The Creepy Crawly Show A fun packed animal road show presented in a fun way by comical rangers. 01244 646 045 / www.thecreepycrawlyshow.co.ukThe Wild Roadshow Handle the animals and learn all about their natural habitats and diets. 0161 283 2630 / www.thewildroadshow.co.uk

CLIMBING CENTRES & INDOOR ADVENTUREAwesome Walls, Stockportwww.awesomewalls.co.ukChill Factore, Trafford Parties for all ages from 2+ in breathtaking surroundings with exhilarating activities. See listing under VENUES. 0161 749 2222 / www.chillfactore.comManchester Climbing Centre, Manchester0161 2307006 / www.manchesterclimbingcentre.comRockover Climbing, Manchester0161 288 1218 / www.rockoverclimbing.comSilver Blades Ice Rink, Altrincham Bronze, Silver or Gold party options available with optional extras like skating aids, party bags and a coaching session. 08700 85 29 29 / www.altrinchamicedome.co.ukSkate City, Hazel Grove Roller Skating and Roller Disco. Catered birthday parties and private hire available. 0161 483 1898 / www.skatecitystockport.co.ukThe Skate Station, Ashton Under Lyme07854 108 636 / www.theskatestation.co.ukWigan Roller Rink07968 365287 / www.wiganrollerrink.com

CAKES, PARTY BAGS AND SUPPLIESLittle Treasures Party Bags Party bags, fillers and personalised chocolate bars for all occasions. 01606 77900 / www.littletreasurespartybags.co.ukParty Sashes Galore Personalised sashes,banners and ribbons for every occasion.0161 798 6245 / www.partysashesgalore.co.ukSarah T Cakes Cakes & Cupcakes for any occasion. sarahtcakes.blogspot.com

Party directory



[email protected]

Party directoryFuntime Kids, Cheadle Indoor soft playcentre for children up to age 12. Parties for min 12, max 30 children. 0161 376 5035 /www.facebook.com/FuntimeKidsCheadleGo Wild, Bury Play, Pamper, make cupcakes/pancakes parties,with face painting, balloon modelling, exlusive venue use and other extras available. 0161 764 8268 / www.gowildbury.co.ukHead over Heels, Chorlton & HandforthBronze, silver or gold party optionsChorlton: 0161 881 4433Handforth: 0161 485 2200www.headoverheelsplay.co.ukJungle Mayhem, Radcliffe Jungle, Glitter Girls, Football, Go Kart, Disco and Tots party options as well as exclusive venue hire. 0161 724 7402 / www.junglemayhem.co.ukKids Go Karting, StockportGo karting in a safe environment on a purpose built track for ages 3 – 10.Exclusive use of venue during the party.07544 424 212 / www.kidsgokarting.uk.comJump Nation, Trafford Park Europe’s largest indoor trampoline area. Unique parties for every occasion - food and drinks included.0161 710 2360 / www.jumpnation.comLand of Play, Trafford Park Toddlers (under 4s), Tradtional or Exclusive Hire party options.0161 872 9434 / www.landofplay.co.ukLegoland Discovery Centre, ManchesterFull use of all activities as well as a private party room, food and cake. 0844 844 8181 /www.legolanddiscoverycentre.co.ukLet’s Party, Bury Themed party venue that will do everything for you. All you need is a cake and party bags (although they can do these too). 3 rooms suitable for different ages (3 – 16 years). 0161 797 1111 / www.letspartyvenue.co.ukLittle Big Heads, Wilmslow Fairy Tea Party, Belle of the Ball, Princess&Pirates or Disco Diva options hosted by friendly staff. Party bags and a special gift for the bitrhday girl. 01625 548326 / www.littlebigheads.co.ukMinikin Emporium, Sale Paint a pot and Decopatch parties including pizza making and food at Oca Waterside. 08000 155 122 / www.minikindesigns.com

Mischief Makers, Rochdale Public or private party options, with Deluxe party bags, face painting, helium balloons and party games available for small extra charge. 01706 653 656 / www.mischiefmakersltd.co.ukOulder Hill Leisure Complex Pool Inflatable, Small Pool or Sports Hall Party packages available. 01706 716680 / www.ohlc.co.ukParadise Island Adventure Golf, Trafford Centre Two 18 hole courses spanning two levels of paradise themed fun. 0161 202 9544 / www.paradiseislandgolf.comParsley Pie, Hale, Whitefield & StockportCreative, fun parties for boys and girls of all ages. Tons of different party activities & projects to choose from. www.parsleypie.comPelican Centre, Tyldesley. Swimming parties for up to 30 children - various inflatable options available.01942 882722 / www.pelicantyldesley.co.ukPlanet Play, Heywood, Rochdale Standard, Deluxe, Super Deluxe or Girl Galaxy party options. 01706 627 627 / www.planetplay.netQueen’s Park Cafe, Rochdale Parties with an outdoor treasure hunt or indoor crafts, food and games. 07984 140521 / www.queensparkcafe.comRun of the Mill, Stockport Private hireavailable from 5 – 7pm, with various entertainment options. 0161 494 7137 / www.runofthemill.co.ukPlayfactore, Trafford A choice of parties in ahuge indoor playcentre with a personal partyhost and contemporary party rooms. 0844 824 6030 / www.playfactore.comRed House Farm, Altrincham A range of managed party packages with rides, bouncy castle, trampoline, inflatable slide, laser quest or climbing wall. 0161 941 3480 / www.redhousefarm.co.ukRichmond Hall Kids Adventure Play Centre, Rochdale. Indoor play, with separate party room and catering available. 01706 633331 / www.richmond-hall.co.uk

Ringways Restaurant, Manchester Airport Cater from the main or children’s menus, or pr-order a party platter. Table decorated with balloons and party banner. Free outdoor play area and free entry on board an Avro RJX aircraft. 0161 489 8300 / www.ringwaysrestaurant.co.ukSmithills Open Farm, Bolton Cuddle the animals in pets corner, donkey rides, tractor and trailer rides, bouncy castles, toy tractors, sand pit and adventure playground. Party food supplied – just bring the cake and party bags. Min 10 children. 01204 595 765 / www.smithillsopenfarm.co.ukStarlight Performing Arts, Hazel Grove Popstar and Rockstar Parties with tailormade packages including food, drinks, party bags, photos and a DVD if required. 0161 439 8009 /www.starlightperformingarts.t83.netThe Styling Academy, Sale Make-over/modelling parties for girls of all ages. We are in the Trader’s Outlet in Sale. £14.99 per head for 2 hours, which includes make up, hair, nails, photoshoot and a fashion show. It’s great fun! Check out our website. Mention FAMILIES and get a free place! Call Kelly on 07980 633745 / www.thestylingacademy.netTotal Fitness Studio (ages 4 – 11) and pool parties (ages 8+) www.totalfitness.co.ukWacky Woods Birthday parties and outdoor adventures for children. 01625 573 086 / www.wackywoods.co.ukWobbly Bobs Playcentre, Farnworth With cold or hot party food, and optional extras like party bags, face painting and balloons. Sumo wrestling and laser party option and exclusive venue hire available. 01204 576719 / www.wobblybobs.netZoom Play Centre, Stockport Toddler, midweek, weekend and exclusive options available. Party prices include party bags, food, squash, party host, party games, reserved table for grown ups, crowning and parade plus one free pass for an admission to Zoom on a subsequent visit. A range of extras to make your party even more special also available. 0161 477 2225 / www.zoomplaycentre.co.uk

VENUESAnchors Away, Stockport Party Kids or Private Hire parties. 0161 432 4020 / www.anchorsaway.org.ukAnchor’s Away Play, Wythenshawe Food & Play, Toddler or VIP party options available.0161 437 0665/ www.anchorsawayplay.comAntz in your Pantz, Timperley Laser, Go-kart, Roller Skating, Craft or traditional party options. 0161 962 2266 / www.antzinyourpantz.co.ukBean & Brush, Sale A Family Art Café offering hosted art or craft parties, including a party buffet, 7 days a week. 0161 973 2140 / www.beanandbrush.co.ukBoomerang, Bury Multi-sensory play centre with exclusive use option available.0161 764 4842 / www.boomerangcentre.co.ukBlue Room Studios, Bury Record your favourite songs in a professional recording studio, have the performance mixed, mastered and put onto CD. 08712 453 423 / www.blueroomstudios.co.ukBrooklyn Pottery, StockportPottery painting parties for all ages.0161 480 5139 / www.brooklynpottery.co.uk

Brookside Pottery, Poynton The Potter’s Wheel experience offers pottery painting and a train ride on the

miniature railway. You supply the food, they supply the rest.07946 637 499 / www.brooksidepottery.com

Chill Factore, Trafford Park Can you imagine a fun-packed party surrounded by real snow? If you’re looking for something

that little bit different, Chill Factore offer a truly exciting range of activity parties to make your child’s day extra special. From £5 per child, party packages include 45 minutes of awesome fun in the snow followed by a party meal overlooking the slopes. Snowplay parties are ideal for toddlers whereas Sledging and Tubing parties are perfect for children aged 4+. Teens love Pick & Mix parties which tend to be in the evenings and give you a range of different snow activities. You’ll have a party host to organise the fun and all the extras too such as invitations, the all-important cake and party bags are also offered.For more details visit www.chillfactore.com

Creative Explorers, Manchester Create-a-party craft parties with options including canvas painting, decoupage, mask decorating and more. 07413 438473 / www.creativeexplorers.netCurly Whirleez, Bolton Tots (under 5), Simply Play or Sporty Parties. Exclusive venue use available. 01204 523 620 / www.curlywhirleez.co.ukEast Lancashire Railway All Aboard the Party Express! Pick and mix your party experience from a range of options – Room Hire, decorations, craft activities, lunch bag and train ride. 0161 764 7790 / www.eastlancsrailway.org.ukFuntastic, Radcliffe, Bury Variety of party packages for all budgets, including exclusive venue use. 0161 425 8248 / www.funtastic.org.uk


Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk12

Parents’ place

Become a foster carer The start of the year is the most popular month for foster carer applications, so why not make 2015 the year you join them?

New research highlights that one child is taken into care every 15 minutes in England, and independent fostering agency Fostering Solutions is encouraging people across the UK to make a positive change in 2015 and become a foster carer. They are launching the Foster15 campaign specifically to highlight the shortfall. ‘The shortfall in foster carers is only set to increase,’ said Gareth Walton of Fostering

Solutions, ‘and Greater London alone has over 15,000 children who desperately need a safe, nurturing and stable home. Becoming a foster carer is one of the most rewarding steps you can take – these children are likely to have had a challenging start to their lives and you can be the person who makes the priceless difference to their life by offering them a home and care.’ If you would like to find out more about being a foster carer with Fostering Solutions call 0800 160 1605 or go to www.fosteringsolutions.com.

A cultural lesson for your family at the breakfast table?

All about MumA day out with the people dearest to you can hit the spot perfectly, so have a look at the many museums, stately homes, farm parks, theme parks and National Trust properties across the country that are running special Mother’s Day events.

At many of them Mums go free, so it’s worth doing your research. Top that

off with a lie-in and breakfast in bed, and you’ll have the perfect day! Cheers to us!

to interact with a young person from a completely different culture and background.

Within the cosmopolitan, culturally diverse world in which we live, contact such as this is invaluable and can only aid your children in their future life and work; where cultural understanding is especially key. Think of it as a geography and culture lesson at your breakfast table!

For more information on becoming a host family for Bright World Guardianships, please contact Lindsay Gayler ([email protected]). www.brightworld.co.uk

The UK remains one of the most popular destinations for International Students in search of a prestigious, reputable education at a UK Boarding School. Foreign students continue to flock to the UK to achieve their goals and expand their horizons.

Bright World Guardianships is a long established Guardianship organisation, charged with offering care to international students whose parents are not living here, especially during short school holidays when students cannot return home. Although the Host Family role is a paid one and does provide a valuable extra income, it really is much more than this. Hosting a young international student can make their entire experience in the UK a happy one. If you welcome a student into your home they will actually look forward to exeats and half terms and their overall experience and impression of the UK will be enhanced. Your children will also benefit from this exposure, simply by sharing their home for a week or so. During this time they’ll learn about new cultures and countries and will have the opportunity


What’s onWhat’s onRemember to check our What’s On Calendar on www.familiesmanchester.co.uk regularly, as not all event information is available at the time of going to print.

EASTER FUN

WHAT’S ON

Sat 28 Mar – Sun 12 AprChatsworth House, ChatsworthEaster at Chatsworth Normal admission appliesJoin us for Easter in the house, garden and farmyard, and make sure you look out for the Easter Bunny, who will be in the garden and farmyard during the bank holiday weekend.01246 565300 / www.chatsworth.org

Fri 3 – Mon 6 AprilDunham Massey, AltrinchamEaster Egg Trail11am – 4pm / Free (normal admission applies)Try and find the Easter egg trail clues that Buzz, the family’s favourite dog, has hidden for you in the garden at Dunham Massey. Along the way you can enjoy games and family fun, before picking up your Cadbury chocolate Egghead as a reward!0161 941 1025 / www.eastereggtrail.com

Daily during Mar & AprBolton LibrariesToddler TalesFree storytelling sessions for young children and their mums, dads and carers, ideal for toddlers aged 2 - 4.Blackrod Library: Thurs 2.30pmBreightmet Library: Wed 9.30amBromley Cross Library: Thurs 2pmCentral Library: Fri 10amFarnworth Library: Fri 10amHarwood Library: Mon 2pmHigh Street Library: Mon 2pmHorwich Library: Tues & Thurs 9.30Westhoughton Library: Fri 10amwww.boltonlams.co.uk

Every Tues in Mar & AprBreightmet Library, BoltonKids Games Club4 – 6pm / Age 5 – 10 / Free.Play board games and make new friends. Suitable for ages 5 - 10 and their carers. Free, no need to book.01204 332352 / www.boltonlams.co.uk

Every Sat in MarTouchstones, RochdaleArt4Families Saturday Club 1 – 2.30pm / Age 5 – 12 / £2, booking essentialExplore Touchstones Rochdale’s exhibitions and participate together in collaborative hands-on art & craft making activities led by trained artists and staff. A different theme each week.Sat 7 Mar: Woollen Wonderland – Take part in a number of woolly workshop ideas and create woven decorations to take home with you.Sat 14 Mar: Fossil Casting – Have fun making your own fossil and learn how scientists use them to unlock secrets of the past.Sat 21 Mar: Organic Paper Pots – Create an organic paper plant pot from newspaper and plant a seed for Science Week! Sat 28 Mar: Cabinet of Curiosities – Make mini versions of the artefacts on display to fill your very own little cabinet.01706 924492 / www.link4life.org/touchstones

Hare Hill Garden, Over AlderleyEaster Egg Trail11am – 4pm / £1 per trail (normal admission applies)Follow the trail through the winding woodland paths, solve the clues and see if you can discover who the unusual guest is. Receive a tasty Cadbury Egghead as a prize for completing the challenge.01625 584412 / www.eastereggtrail.com

Little Moreton Hall, CongletonEaster Egg Trail11am – 3pm / £1 per trail (normal admission applies)Take part in some real live Tudor games, then go on eggsploring with our Cadbury Easter Egg Trail01260 272018 / www.eastereggtrail.com

Lyme Park, Disley11am – 4.30pm / £1 per trail (normal admission applies)Follow the garden and house trails, solve the clues and claim your Cadbury chocolate Egghead.01663 762023 / www.eastereggtrail.com

Quarry Bank Mill, StyalEaster Egg Trail12 – 4pm / £2 per trail (normal admission applies)Eggsplore Quarry Bank this Easter to earn your Cadbury’s chocolate Egghead.01625 527468 / www.eastereggtrail.com

Rudyard Lake Steam Railway, LeekEaster Egg Steam TrainNo booking needed.01995 672280 / www.rlsr.org

Tatton Park, KnutsfordEaster Story TimeNormal opening times & admission appliesJoin the Lindt Gold Bunny and enjoy some of your favourite stories across the park. A fun filled programme of trails, story telling, magic shows and puppet theatre and every child will be rewarded with a Lindt chocolate surprise! 01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sat 4 – Sun 6 AprilChurnet Valley RailwayEaster Weekend CelebrationsAdult 10, Child (4 – 14) £5, Under 4s FreeEnjoy the sights of spring with the Easter Steam Train Service. Easter activities and egg hunts for all the children on Sun 5 April only. 01538 750755 / www.churnet-valley-railway.co.uk

Sun 5 & Mon 6 AprilGulliver’s World, WarringtonEaster EggstravaganzaEaster themed competitions, activities and the chance to meet the Easter Bunny. Easter Egg Hunt, Big Bunny Bounce and make sure you wear your Easter Bonnet for a £1 Gift Vouchuer to spend in the park AND to show off in the Easter Bunny Parade. 01925 444888 / www.gulliversfun.co.uk

Sun 5 AprLower Higham Visitor Centre, HydeEaster Egg Hunt1 – 3pm. A marvellous egg-stravaganza for younger children. As well as the hunt there will be competitions for best dressed Easter egg and bonnet. 0161 343 2878 / www.tameside.gov.uk/countryside

Sun 5 – Sun 19 AprOrdsall Hall, SalfordEaster Egg Hunt10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm / £1. Take part in our fun quiz, find the eggs and get an Easter treat at the end. 0161 872 0251 / www.visitsalford.info

Dates TBC at time of going to pressSmithills Open Farm, Bolton Easter Egg HuntsEaster lasts for the whole of the Easter school holiday at Smithills – with the dates of the Easter Egg Hunts still TBC at the time of going to press. Look out for new chicks and baby bunnies and watch out for the staff dressed in silly costumes. Loads of fun for all.01204 595765 / www.smithillsopenfarm.co.uk

Every Sat & Sun in MarchImperial War Museum (North)Family WeekendsActivities throughout the day for all ages. Explore stories of inspiring women who have done remarkable things in times of conflict to mark International Women’s Day 2015. Decorate your own t-shirt with iconic designs. The whole family can get involved through craft activities, object handling and storytelling. Join in with family story telling at 10.30am and 1.30pm. www.iwm.org.uk

Sun 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 Mar Sun 5, 12 & 19 AprThe National Football Museum, ManchesterSkill Sundays12 – 1pm / Free (book on the day). Half hour skills coaching sessions from qualified coaches.0161 605 8200 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

Tues 3 MarAlderley Edge Copper MinesDown The Mines!7 – 9.30pm / Age 6+ (must be accompanied) / £7 (book and pay in advance). Helmets with lamps provided, but please wear old clothes. Some ladder climbing and crawling involved01625 3748 / www.derbyscc.org.uk

Tues 3, Tues 17 & Tues 31 MarManchester MuseumBaby Explorers 10.30 – 11.15am, 11.30am – 12.15pm & 1 – 1.45pm / Free (but book in advance from a week before). Sensory play and interactive story sessions for babies who aren’t walking yet. 0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum

Tues 3, 17 & 31 MarBolton Museum & Art GalleryArty Babies10.30 – 11.30am / Free, drop in. Using art works on display in the Art Gallery, we bring the paintings to life with creative play and sensory activities. 01204 332211 / www.boltonlams.co.uk

Thurs 5 MarTouchstones, RochdaleShake, Rattle and Roll11am – 12pm / Age 2 – 4 / Free. Join musician Beth Bishop for a fun, musical drop-in session in the Art Gallery.www.link4life.org/touchstones

Thurs 5, Mon 9, Thurs 19 & Mon 23 MarNational Football Museum, ManchesterBaby Moves10.30am & 1.30pm / 0 – 12 months / £3 per baby, booking advisable. A play and movement session to help your baby’s physical, communication and language development. 0161 605 8200 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com.

Thurs 5 Mar & Thurs 2 AprThe John Rylands Library, ManchesterToddler tales10.30 – 11.30amm / Age 0 – 5 / Free, drop in. Pull up a cushion to enjoy great stories, songs and other fun activities.0161 3060555 / www.manchester.ac.uk

Fri 6 MarBolton Central LibraryWorld Book Day Toddler Tales11am – 12pm / Age 0 – 4 / Free. Storytelling, singing and crafts. Ideal for young children and their mums, dads and carers. Dress up as your favourite book character if you like!01204 332211 / www.boltonlams.co.uk

Fri 6 Mar & Fri 3 AprThe Lowry, SalfordUnder 5s Doodle Tots10am & 11.15am / Under 5s / £3.50. A colourful art workshop for under 5s and their families to enjoy painting, sticking and making their own works of art. No skills or expertise needed. Aprons provided!0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Fri 6, 13, 20 & 27 Mar Fri 3, 10, 17 & 24 AprThe Lowry, SalfordUnder 5s First Steps10am & 11am / Under 5s / £3.50. Feel the groove as your little one explores their creativity and has tons of fun! This season we will wriggle, jiggle and jump as we explore stories, rhythm and music through our bodies. Everyone welcome!0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Fri 6 – Sun 8 MarEvent City, ManchesterThe Baby & Toddler Show10am – 5pm (4pm on Fri) / Adult £15, Grandparent £10, Child Free. All the amazing shopping and expert advice new parents need to give their baby the best start!www.babyandtoddlershow.co.uk/manchester

Sat 7 MarManchester Art Gallery Baby Saturday1pm – 3pm / Free, drop in. Sensory exploration for babies who aren’t walking yet, with an adult or carer.0161 235 8888 / www.manchestergalleries.org

Bolton Central Library & Westhougton LibraryCelebrate World Book DayAge 3 – 11 / Free. Join performance poet, Rappaman aka Donavan Christopher for story sessions and themed activities. Come dressed as your favourite Book character if you like! Westhougton Library 11am – 12pmCentral Library: 1.30 – 2.30pm01204 332853 / www.boltonlams.co.uk

Sat 7 & Sun 8 MarImperial War Museum (North)What A Performance: Spies11.15am, 12.15pm, 1.15pm, 2.15pm / All ages / FreeSpecial performances dramatising stories of wartime life. Discover the dangerous role played by British female Special Operations Executive agents parachuted into France as wireless operators during the Second World War. www.iwm.org.uk

What’s on


Remember to check our What’s On Calendar on www.familiesmanchester.co.uk regularly, as not all event information is available at the time of going to print.

Sat 7 Mar & Sat 4 AprThe John Rylands Library, ManchesterDragon tales11am – 12pm / All ages / Free. Join in the hunt for the Library’s mythical beasts before settling down for stories!0161 3060555 / www.manchester.ac.uk

Sat 7 Mar, Sat 4 Apr & Sat 2 MayHall i’ th’ Wood MuseumCrafternoons1 – 3pm / All ages / Free, drop in. Family friendly activities. www.boltonmuseums.org.uk

Sat 7, 14 & 21 Mar Sat 4, 11, 18 & 25 AprThe Lowry, SalfordLookout, it’s Saturday Playhouse11am / Free. An art activity for children and their families in the dedicated Lookout space for families with a different activity each week.7 Mar: “Cats and dogs” – Lowry’s artwork featured lots of animals-even a woman with a dogs head!- learn how to create your own Lowry landscapes and fill it with lots of “ruff” characters. 14 Mar: “Ballerinas” – Inspired by our ballet, Copeilia make your own tiny ballerina puppet and stage set!21 Mar: “Flick book fun” – See how to design and animate your own cartoon characters. 4 Apr: “Creature features” – Design your own fabulous beast then make a mask of it.11 Apr: “Jack the Dog” – Inspired by Lowry’s dog, “Jack”, make a puppet of your favourite doggy friend!18 Apr: “Puppet People” – Design your own scenes and discover how to and fill them with moving Kings and Queens, Dinosaurs, aliens or any other characters you’d like to puppet.25 Apr: “All Aboard!” – Look out at the view from our windows and be inspired by all things nautical! We’ll be making boats that rock this week!0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Sun 8 MarThe National Football Museum, ManchesterFrom Where I’m Sitting12pm & 2pm / Free. Free storytelling sessions for young visitors, inspired by the exhibition The Greater Game: Football & the First World War. 0161 605 8200 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

The Bridgewater Hall, ManchesterGuided Family Tour4.15 – 5.45pm / £5. Your chance to see behind the scenes at The Bridgewater Hall. 0161 907 9000 / www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

Wed 11 MarManchester Art Gallery Creative Consultants4 – 5.45pm / Age 14 – 19 / Free, no booking requiredA chance to meet photographer Emily Allchurch and interview her about her work and exhibition0161 235 8888 / www.manchestergalleries.org

Thurs 12 MarManchester Art GalleryCreative Consultants6 – 8pm / Age 14 – 19 / Free, no booking requiredEmily Allchurch exhibition preview0161 235 8888 / www.manchestergalleries.org

Breightmet Library, BoltonLEGO Brick Building Club4 – 5pm / Age 6 – 11 / Free. Become a better builder, learn new skills about building with LEGO. 01204 332352 / www.boltonlams.co.uk

Fri 13 MarManchester Art GalleryMini Art Club10.15 – 11.15am and 11.30am – 12.30pm / Age 1 – 4 / Free but book in advance. Discover artworks, explore materials and make friends in our artist-led workshops. 0161 235 8888 / www.manchestergalleries.org

Sat 14 MarManchester Art Gallery Family Art Club1 – 3pm / Age 5 – 11 / Free. Enjoy art, be creative and make things together in our artist-led workshops. 0161 235 8888 / www.manchestergalleries.org

Sat 14 & Sun 15 MarJodrell BankGet ready for the eclipse science shows!11am, 12pm, 1.30pm & 2.30pm / Age 5+ / Free but normal admission applies – advance booking recommended. On Friday 20th March the Moon will move across the face of the Sun, blocking out much of its light in a partial eclipse. Discover more about how this phenomenon occurs and find out how to view it safely in our science show.01477 571766 / www.jodrellbank.net

Wed 18 MarDuke’s Drive Meadow, MontonTeddy Bears Picnic12.30 – 2.30pm / Free. Is your teddy ready for a picnic? Wrap up warm, bring your marmalade sandwiches and join us for a Spring picnic in the meadow at Duke’s Drive. 07860 916797 / www.salford.gov.uk

Fri 20 MarThe Bridgewater Hall, ManchesterMusic MakersBabies:1.45 & 2.45pm, Toddlers: 11am & 12pm / Free but booking essential. Music and sensory play sessions for babies and toddlers.0161 907 9000 / www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

Sat 21 MarMuseum of Science & Industry (MOSI)Solar Eclipse at Pi: Platform for Investigation10.30am – 3.30pm / All ages / Free, drop in. Discover more about our solar system and its place in the universe. To celebrate one of the most amazing events of the celestial calendar, we’ve invited astronomers and star gazers to host a day of all things space.0161 832 2244 / www.mosi.org.uk

Manchester MuseumEarly Opening for Early Birds 9 – 10am / Under 5s and older siblings / Free, drop in. The Living Worlds gallery opens early for early birds. Enjoy self-led tours, object handling and craft activities. The rest of the Museum opens 10am.

Big Saturday: The Body Experience11am – 4pm / All ages / Free, drop in. Explore the wonder of the human body examining the human body from head to toe! Interactive stands and activities for all the family will include a range of activities from making your own mucus, to performing spine surgery with marshmallows. Part of British Science Week.0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum

Grappenhall Community CentreWarrington Spring Craft Fair10am – 3pm / Free admission. Handmade items, local stalls, vintage tea cafe and more.www.facebook.com/eventsinwarrington

Bolton Library & MuseumSuper Saturday: British Science Week11.30 – 3.30pm / All ages (children must be accompanied) / Free. “Mad Science” will be doing some interactive experiments to entertain and inspire children & families. 11.30am – 12.30pm: Forces Workshop 1pm: Spectacular Science show 2.30pm: Mad Mixtures Workshop (limited places, please book)01204 332853 / www.boltonlams.co.uk

Sat 21 & Sun 22 Mar & Sat 28 & Sun 29 MarJodrell BankScience show: The Moon and the eclipse11am, 12pm, 1.30pm & 2.30pm / Age 5+ / Free but normal admission applies – advance booking recommended. Join one of our fun and inspiring science shows to learn more about our moon. There will be rocket launches and demonstrations illustrating what it is like on the Moon.01477 571766 / www.jodrellbank.net

Fri 27 MarManchester MuseumMagic Carpet10.30 – 11.30am & 11.30am – 12.30pm / Under 5s / Free (but book in advance from a week before)Story making and activity sessions for toddlers up to 5yrs and their families/carers (young babies welcome with older siblings).0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum

Sat 28 MarThe Shopping Centre, Cheadle HulmeCheadle Hulme Family Market11am – 4pm / Free admission. Family event with stalls, a frozen theme and a visit from Bugs Bunny with FREE eggs. Market stalls and delicious food. www.facebook.com/cheadlehulmevents

Sat 28 Mar & Sat 25 AprBolton Central Library & MuseumSuper Saturdays11am – 3.30pm / All ages / Free, drop-inFamily activities with a different theme each month. March’s theme is Amazing Animals, April’s theme is Dinosaurs. Activities include crafts, fish feeds, storytelling, object handling and more. 01204 332211 / www.boltonlams.co.uk

Sun 29 MarCholmondeley Castle Gardens, MalpasSpring Fest11am – 5pm / Normal admission applies. A fun family event, run with Cheshire Wildlife Trust. A host of activities including crafts and seed sowing for children, make your own bird feeders, seasonal walks and talks and check out the new live nest box cameras in the tearoom.01829 720383 / www.cholmondeleycastle.com

Manchester Art GalleryCreative Consultants1 – 4pm / Age 14 – 19 / Free, no booking required Film-maker Jess Wild will lead a Masterclass in documentary filmmaking using your mobile phone.0161 235 8888 / www.manchestergalleries.org

Sun 29 Mar & Sun 26 AprStockport Market SK1 1ESKids Car Boot & Swap Shop 10am – 12pm / Stalls cost £15. Family event where kids products can be bought, sold or swapped.www.kidscarboot.co.uk

Fri 3 AprDuke’s Drive, MontonEaster Orienteering10am – 12pm / Free. The Golden Easter bunny is hiding and we need you to find her! Put your orienteering skills to the test to win your Easter prize! Courses for younger and older children available. Meet at the entrance to the site, just beyond the car park. 07872 808003 / www.salford.gov.uk

Fri 3 – Mon 6 AprThe National Waterways Museum, Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, CH65 4FW Sea Shanty Festival10am – 4pm / Child. £4.50 Adult £6.50. Adult Concession £5.50. Nearly 100 performers in seven different venues within the Museum for four exciting days of singing, concerts, nautical poetry, puppet-making and face painting. 0151 355 5017 / canalrivertrust.org.uk/national-waterways-museum

Fri 3 – Sun 19 Apr, Sat 25 & Sun 26 AprImperial War Museum (North)Family Days: Commonwealth Animals. Craft activities, storytelling and object handling throughout the day for all ages. www.iwm.org.uk

Fri 3 – Sun 19 AprStockley Farm Park, NorthwichEaster EggstravaganzaEaster egg hunts, meet the Easter bunny, The Stockley Stakes opening meet (sheep racing) on Sat 11 Apr! 01565 777323 / www.stockleyfarm.co.uk

Fri 3 & Tues 14 AprThe National Football Museum, ManchesterFace painting12.30 – 3.30 / Free, drop-in. 0161 605 8200 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

Sat 4 AprManchester Art Gallery Studio Saturday – Baby Art Club Special2 – 4pm / Free, drop in. Join Naomi and Najia in the Clore Art Studio for a sensory exploration. 0161 235 8888 / www.manchestergalleries.org

Sat 4 – Mon 6 AprOulton Park, TarporleyThe British GT and BRDC F4 Championships9am – 6.30pm / Adult Weekend £23, Adult Monday £18, Weekend camping £10, Children Free. Two headline classes with action from the British GT Championship and the BRDC Formula 4 Championship. Exotic supercars do battle in a pair of hour-long races. 0843 453 9000 / www.oultonpark.co.uk Chester RacecourseChester Food, Drink & Lifestyle FestivalOver 150 food and drink exhibitors and free children’s cooking workshops.www.chesterfoodanddrink.co.uk

Sun 5 AprOrdsall Hall Museum, SalfordChildren’s ‘no glass’ Stained Glass Workshop: Make a Spring Decoration1 – 4pm / £5. A safe and simple way for children to make a beautiful decoration for the Spring.0161 872 0251 / www.salford.gov.uk/ordsallhall.htm

Sun 5 Apr – Sun 19 AprOrdsall Hall, SalfordMake & Take - Clothes Peg Farm Animals10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm / FreeMake a fun farm animal to take home.0161 872 0251 / www.visitsalford.info

Sun 5 – Sun 19 AprSalford Museum & Art Gallery Victorian Easter QuizWin a small prize for your efforts.10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm / £10161 778 0800 / www.visitsalford.info

Sun 5 Apr & Sun 3 MayKingsway School (lower site), Cheadle SK8 1NPKids Car Boot & Swap Shop 10am – 12pm / Stalls cost £15. Family event where kids products can be bought, sold or swapped.www.kidscarboot.co.ukSaddleworth School, Uppermill OL3 6BUKids Car Boot & Swap Shop 10am – 12pm / Stalls cost £12. Family event where kids products can be bought, sold or swapped.www.kidscarboot.co.uk

Mon 6 AprPortland Basin Museum, Ashton-under-Lyne11am – 3pm. Easter Monday Fun DayCelebrate Easter on a fun family day, view our displays and get creative.0161 343 2878 / www.tameside.gov.uk/culture

What’s on


These listings are for guidance only – please check before you goTo include your upcoming event in our listings, email [email protected]

Mon 6 – Sun 19 AprManchester MuseumEaster Holiday Activities: Nature Discovery11am – 4pm / All ages / Free, drop in. Explore, discover and make stories. Visit the newly renovated Nature Discovery gallery for under 5s and their families. Create sock puppet animals in the Discovery Centre and take them with you as you explore the Museum’s galleries and see what, and how many, other animals you can find.0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum

Tues 7 AprTatton Park, KnutsfordCycling Boredom Busters10am – 1.30pm / Age 8+ / £10. Explore farmland trails and woodland single tracks with the Rangers. Learn the fundamentals of off-road skills (including a bike safety check) and then explore the park! 01625 374428 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Ordsall Hall, SalfordMini Allotments10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm / £1.50Plant your own mini-allotment to take home, complete with garden shed!0161 872 0251 / www.visitsalford.info

Tues 7 – Fri 10 AprQuarry Bank Mill, StyalLove Printing!12 – 4pm / Free, but normal admission appliesHave fun creating Spring pictures with ink block prints.01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank

Z-arts, HulmeEaster Activity – Where Caterpillars Go10am – 12pm / Age 7+ / Booking recommendedCreate your own paper garden and caterpillars; try out lantern making, clay and printmaking. Inspired by our children’s show on Thurs 9th April. 0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org

Tues 7 – Fri 17 Apr (weekdays only) Parrs Wood High School, Didsbury M20 5PGEaster Play scheme8am – 6pm / Age 4 – 12. Nine days of fun and creativity – Go Karting, BodyZorbing, Science Projects, Battlefield Live Outdoor Combat Game, inflatables, sporting activities, treasure hunt, woodland trails and outdoor fun and games as well as arts and crafts. Run by an experienced team who will give children a holiday to remember! 07956 557653 / www.redmox-leisure.com/playscheme

Tues 7 – Fri 17 Apr (closed Mondays)Tatton Park, KnutsfordLambing Fortnight at The FarmNormal entry charges apply. Will you be lucky enough to see our lambs being born? Why not try the sheepy quiz?01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Tues 7, Thurs 9 & Fri 10 Apr Mon 13, Tues 14, Thurs 16 & Fri 17 AprDunham Massey, AltrinchamEaster Family Fun12 – 4pm / Free, but normal admission applies. Hop along to Dunham for a range of exciting activities for families to enjoy together. 0161 941 1025 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunham-massey

Wed 8 AprSalford Museum & Art Gallery Chick and Bunny Treat Holders10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm / £1.50Easter may be over but make one of our cute treat holders for any chocs you still have left! We might even give you a sweet surprise to get you started!0161 778 0800 / www.visitsalford.info

Ordsall Hall, SalfordTreat Boxes10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm / £1.50. Make and decorate your own boxes and fill them with Easter treats.0161 872 0251 / www.visitsalford.info

Wed 8 & Wed 15 AprDunham Massey, AltrinchamStory Telling11am – 3pm / Free, bur normal admission appliesJoin storyteller Helen Stewart in the dairy for Easter tales for all the family. Stories at various times; limited places, please collect a timed token from visitor reception on the day.0161 941 1025 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunham-massey

Wed 8, Wed 15 & Fri 17 AprThe National Football Museum, ManchesterFrom Where I’m Sitting12pm & 2pm / Free. Free storytelling sessions for young visitors, inspired by the exhibition The Greater Game: Football & the First World War.

Thurs 9 AprCar park, bottom of Meadow Lane, Denton M34 7QAGo Wild1 – 3pm. A fun day in the countryside for families. Den building, a mini beast safari and pond dipping.0161 343 2878 / www.tameside.gov.uk/countryside

Ordsall Hall, SalfordJapanese Fish Kite10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm / £1.50Make a simple kite and then fly it in our gardens.0161 872 0251 / www.visitsalford.info

Fri 10 AprThe National Football Museum, ManchesterFamily Disability Activity Day11am – 4pm / Free, drop-in. Find out more about disability football by having a go and meeting top British players. 0161 605 8200 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

The National Football Museum, ManchesterThe War Game12pm, 1.30pm & 3pm / Age 7+. A brilliant performance based on Terry Deary’s ‘The War Game’.0161 605 8200 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com.

The Bridgewater Hall, ManchesterBe Hear Now: In the Mix11am: all ages. 12pm: Age 0 – 11 / 12 - 19. £3 concert only, £5 concert and workshop; Family ticket £20 (for any 5 people; for concert and workshop only). Musical discovery sessions for young people with special educational needs and their families.0161 907 9000 / www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

Sun 12 AprTabley House, nr KnutsfordTabley Races1st race 1pm. A great day out for all the family. 7 races over fences, 2 Pony races, trade stands, funfair and refreshments. www.tableyraces.co.uk

Mon 13 & Fri 17 AprParrs Wood High School, Didsbury M20 5PGChildren’s Multi-Activity Fun DaysAges 3 – 12 / £7.50 per child (under 3s free), drop off service availableGo Karting, BodyZorbing, Battlefield Live Outdoor Combat Game, outdoor and indoor Sporting Activities (including dodgeball, tri-golf, tag rugby), Giant Obstacle Course, Giant Slide, Bouncy Castle, Whizz Wheels and more! Stay as long as you want!07956 557653 / www.go-kiddy-karts.co.uk/fun_day

Tues 14 AprOrdsall HallHandmade Paper Seed-Starters10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm / £1.50. Make your own hand-made coloured paper and embed it with seeds. Then plant the whole piece in your garden and watch it grow! 0161 872 0251 / www.visitsalford.info

Tues 14 & Tues 28 AprManchester MuseumBaby Explorers 10.30 – 11.15am, 11.30am – 12.15pm & 1 – 1.45pm / Free (but book in advance from a week before). Sensory play and interactive story sessions for babies who aren’t walking yet. 0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum

Wed 15 AprTatton Park, KnutsfordChocolate Heaven10.30 – 12.30pm / Age 8+ / £18. Make a range of chocolate treats in the Mansion kitchen. Explore the history and science of chocolate, whilst making a range of chocolate treats to take home.01625 374428 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Salford Museum & Art Gallery Hats Off!10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm / £1.50Choose your design and create your own hat to wear.0161 778 0800 / www.visitsalford.info

Ordsall Hall, SalfordFridge Magnets10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm / £1.50. Create your own magnets inspired by Ordsall Hall, brilliant for your fridge or radiator!0161 872 0251 / www.visitsalford.info

Thurs 16 AprTatton Park, KnutsfordKite Making Workshop10.15am - 11.15am or 11.45am - 12.45pm or 1.45pm - 2.45pm or 3.15pm - 4.15pm / All ages / £8. Join kite experts, Mike and Fran Goddard, to design and fly your own kite. Learn the science behind kites, then be taken step-by-step to make two of your own basic kites. Once done, go out and have fun flying them in the Parkland. 01625 374428 / www.idesignkites.com

Park Bridge Heritage Centre, Ashton under Lyne OL6 8AQGo Wild1 – 3pm. A fun day in the countryside for families.0161 343 2878 / www.tameside.gov.uk/countryside

Ordsall Hall, SalfordRainbow Mobile10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm / £1.50Make a beautiful rainbow to cheer up your bedroom.0161 872 0251 / www.visitsalford.info

Sun 19 AprRossmill, Hale Barns WA15 0EJWood Carving Demonstration11am – 3pm (drop in) / All ages / Free. Cheshire East Council Countryside Ranger Ed Pilkington will be making use of the fallen timber within Rossmill to create a chainsaw carving. 01625 383700 / www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangers

Oakgates Car Park, Stalybridge SK15 3EPFamily SafariExplore ponds, meadows and woodlands on a short wildlife walk. Don’t forget a picnic. 0161 343 2878 / www.tameside.gov.uk/countryside

Fri 24 AprManchester MuseumMagic Carpet10.30 – 11.30am & 11.30am – 12.30pm / Under 5s / Free but book in advance from a week before. Story making and activity sessions for toddlers up to 5yrs and their families/carers (young babies welcome with older siblings). 0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum

Sat 25 AprManchester MuseumBig Saturday: Nature & Us11am – 4pm / All ages / Free, drop in. Discover more about nature around us, and how it affects our everyday lives. Hands-on activities for all the family .0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum

The Paddock, HandforthHandforth Paddock Fair11am – 4pm / Free admission. Free Punch and Judy shows, Peppa Pig visit, train rides (50p), pony rides, market stalls and entertainment.www.facebook.com/handforthpaddockfair

Cheadle Hulme Methodist Church, SK8 7ALNCT Stockport Nearly New Sale10.30am – 12pm / £1 admission (adults)Great quality baby and kids clothes, toys, books, nursery goods, maternity wear. Parking and refreshments available. No pushchairs or shopping bags. Chip and pin available. Sellers wanted - registration open 21 Mar – 19 [email protected]

Z-arts, HulmeCello BabiesAge 0 – 2 years. Non walking babies: 11 – 11.45amWalking babies: 1 – 1.45pmMixed session: 3 – 3.45pm0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org

Sat 25 & Sun 26 Apr & Sun 3 & Mon 4 MayArley Hall & Gardens, NorthwichBluebell Walks11am, 12pm & 2pm / All ages / Adult £2.50, Child (5 – 16) £1, Under 5s free – booking essentialEnjoy huge carpets of bluebells & many other wild flowers, see magnificent woods in spring-time glory & listen to glorious birdsong. Walks last approx. 1¾ hrs on footpaths through woods & fields and are lead by experienced guides.01565 777 353 / www.arleyhallandgardens.com

Sat 2 – Mon 4 MayRudyard Lake Steam Railway, LeekLollipop Steam SpecialsFree Lollipops for kids!01995 672280 / www.rlsr.org

Oulton Park, TarporleyMCE Insurance British Superbike Championship9am – 6.30pm / Adult Weekend £34, Adult Monday £26, Weekend camping £18, Children FreeSome of the biggest names in motorcycle racing do battle, including Josh Brookes, Ryuichi Kiyonari and James Ellison. The MCE BSB action will be supported by a top-class support bill, which includes the British Supersport Championship, Superstock 600 and 1000, and Motostar.0843 453 9000 / www.oultonpark.co.uk

Mon 4 MayQuarry Bank Mill, StyalA Victorian May Day11am – 4pm / Free, but normal admission appliesTraditional entertainment including Swing Boats, Punch and Judy, Maypole dancing and more.01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank

Mon 4, Wed 27 & Fri 29 MayThe National Football Museum, ManchesterFrom Where I’m Sitting12pm & 2pm / Free. Free storytelling sessions for young visitors, inspired by the exhibition The Greater Game: Football & the First World War. 0161 605 8200 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

Sat 16 MayBrookside Pottery, Poynton10am – 12.30pm / Age 4+ / £27.50 (includes non-refundable £15 deposit). Booking essential.Glaze a Frozen themed item including a mirror, hairbrush, princess photo frame, castle moneybox or crown trinket box. Ticket includes the glazed item, a visit from our special guest from The Kingdom of Arendelle, a raffle ticket to win a hamper of Frozen delights an light refreshments.Call Liz: 07946 637499

What’s on These listings are for guidance only – please check before you goTo include your upcoming event in our listings, email [email protected]

Fri 6 MarThe Lowry, SalfordFirst Steps - A Child’s Coppelia1pm / Age 3 – 7 / £10. Birmingham Royal Ballet’s hour long, interactive programme features a storyteller who sets the scene, introduces the children to the music and characters and shares some of the technical magic surrounding the staging of this fun tale.This is followed by a performance of Act II of the ballet featuring the full company of dancers and orchestra. With a feast of dance, music, costumes and lots of mischievous fun, it’s a fantastic way of introducing young ones to ballet.0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Fri 6 & Sat 7 MarThe Edge Theatre and Arts Centre, ManchesterHanda’s SurpriseFri: 10.45am, 1.30pm & 2.30pmSat: 11am, 1.30pm & 3pmAges 2 – 6 / £8. Travel to Kenya and follow in Handa’s footsteps as she journeys to see her best friend Akeyo, in the next village. A blend of physical performance, puppetry, live music and song combine to create an intimate, magical production with audience participation. 0161 2829776/ www.edgetheatre.co.uk

Sun 8 MarThe Bridgewater Hall, ManchesterThe Silver Donkey3pm / Age 8+ / £7, Family ticket (up to 5 people incl 1 or more children): £22. Staged by an ensemble cast of leading young performers, students and schoolchildren, this special production invites audiences to explore music, storytelling and memories of WW1.0161 907 9000 / www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

Fri 13 & Sat 14 MarThe Edge Theatre and Arts Centre, ManchesterWhatever the Weather Age 3+ / £8Fri: 10.45am & 1.30pmSat: 11am & 1.30pm Life becomes topsy-turvy for the inhabitants of a weather house when the winds of change blow in some new and unfamiliar conditions. 0161 2829776/ www.edgetheatre.co.uk

Sun 22 MarZ-arts, HulmeMy Friend Mole11.30am / Age 3 – 6. A gentle tale of a very special friendship and the imagination using live music, storytelling and a rich visual language that will delight and surprise it’s audience.0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org

Tues 7 April - Sun 12 AprilThe Lowry, SalfordRoom on the Broom11am & 2pm daily (2pm only Tues 7 Apr) / £15. Climb aboard Tall Stories’ magical musical stage adaptation of Room on the Broom, providing songs, laughs and scary fun for all the family.0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

FAMILY SHOWSTues 14 AprThe Edge Theatre and Arts Centre, ManchesterThe Boy who Bit PicassoAge 4 – 8 / £8. Come and play down on the farm with Tony and Picasso. We’ll have loads of fun, make crazy pictures and we’ll tell the true story of how a young boy became friends with one of the greatest artists who ever lived. An interactive theatre show with storytelling, music and lots of chances to make your own art.0161 2829776/ www.edgetheatre.co.uk

Sun 19 AprThe Lowry, SalfordDuck in the Truck1pm & 3pm / Age 3 – 7 / £8.50. Based on the bestselling book by Jez Alborough, this funny, silly, yucky, mucky show will have you giggling away, singing along and laughing out loud.0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Tues 21 AprThe Lowry, Salford1.30pm & 7pm / £11.00 - £15.00. The poignant tale of one small creature’s struggle to preserve a world in danger of being lost forever, this exhilarating show is based on the award-winning book by Helen Ward.0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Wed 22 & Thurs 23 AprZ-arts, HulmeBenefitsWed 7.30pm, Thurs 2.30 & 7.30pm / Age 14+Three interwoven stories unlock the frustrations and passions of characters struggling with their bank balances, their histories and their own sense of self. This production uses forum theatre, a type of interactive theatre which empowers the audience to change the action of the play. You will have the opportunity to debate, disagree and even participate in the show.0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org

Sat 25 AprThe Lowry, SalfordSwanhunter7pm / Age 7+ / £15 - £18Based on a gripping tale from the Finnish folk epic the Kalevala, Swanhunter is a chamber opera specifically created for a family audience.0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Thurs 30 AprZ-arts, HulmeEDge 2015: A New Generation of Dance Artists7.30 – 8.30pm. Edge is a versatile, feisty company of 12 exceptional dancers. This is your chance to see the best new dance by a variety of internationally renowned and up & coming choreographers, brought to life by this company of fresh, energetic dancers.0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org


families manchester issue 50 mar-apr 2015

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