@motherofalloutings - Half Term Ideas!

February 6, 2019 by @motherofalloutings

Feeling frazzled before the school holidays even start? Don’t worry I’ve got you covered. Since the British weather is anything but predicable, I have compiled some ideas for you to entertain the kids whatever the weather. There are lots of local suggestions for those of you who don’t like to leave the happiest town in the UK, and some further afield for the explorers among you. 

One of Leigh’s hidden treasures is Stax of Creations (formerly Stax of Wax). They are holding different daily workshops and there’s something to suit everyone. Whether your kids like LOL dolls, Fortnite or perhaps they want to make some slime, there’s plenty to keep them entertained. You can grab a quick coffee next door at Barlow and Fields while they create. Book via Instagram @staxofcreations or facebook page Stax of Creations. 

Leigh Community Centre is holding bubble workshops, arts and crafts, a drama session and puppet shows throughout the week. There’s room for buggies and there’s a café on site that does kids lunch boxes and good coffee. These sessions are ticket only so be sure to purchase in advance. Call 01702 716288 to book. You can see full details here: http://www.leighcommunitycentre.com/school-holiday-activities 

Create98 on Leigh Broadway is the ultimate creation station. You name it, they do it. They are running classes for school age kids and older during half term, there’s pottery, paper making and more. Have a look at their website for further details. You may even sign up for one of their adults events yourself. Booking for all workshops is via: https://create98.co.uk/ 

“We know the way” to Southend’s Palace Theatre which is holding a baby friendly cinema experience showing Disney’s Moana on Sunday 17th February at 2pm. If you’re not sure if they’re quite ready for the cinema, or have a baby in tow, then this is perfect for you. Tickets are £5.50 and under 2s go free. Book tickets online https://southendtheatres.org.uk/Online/tickets-film-moana-southend-2019 

RHS Hyde Hall in Chelmsford, is one of my favourite places. It is a beautiful English country garden with fab cafes and a play area for the kids. During half term they’re doing Eco-superhero activities where children will be able to make bug hotels from recycled materials. It’s definitely worth getting an annual pass with the RHS as they run so many kid friendly events throughout the year. https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/hyde-hall

If you haven’t been to the Sealife Centre recently, a lot has changed. They have a new Wild outdoor area with monkeys, giant tortoises, and meerkats. They also have penguins, otters, and all of the sea creatures you can imagine. This is fun for all ages, and definitely worth a visit. Sealife Adventure have the best value pass in town, not only do you make your money back after two visits, but you also get discounts at Adventure Island, Sands, the Three Shells, and Clarence Yard. I’ve just renewed my pass for the third year running. http://sealifeadventure.co.uk/ 

If it rains and you’re after the perfect “inside job” look no further than the Police Museum in Chelmsford. This small, kid friendly museum is running fridge magnet crafts on Wednesday 20th and 

Saturday 23rd February for £2 per child, booking not required but they only have 63 kits so first come first served. The museum is open from 10am-4pm every Saturday, and on Wednesdays in school holidays. and has plenty to entertain the kids despite its small size. They can dress up in Police hats, coats and vests. They can grab a bucket at the entrance for kids to borrow magnifying glasses, dictaphones, mobiles, torches – everything they need to investigate the museum thoroughly. They can also have a look in the prisoner’s cell and take their own fingerprints. 

You will certainly be hearing a lot of “baa” at Barleylands this half term. Lambing season is in full swing. Come down to meet all the newborn lambs and their proud mothers, if you’re lucky you may even see one being born. There’s a sheep trail, talks with the shepherd, and you can bottle feed the sheep too. There’s also tractor rides, birds of prey display and reptile demonstrations. Whether its rain or shine, this is an all-weather farm with plenty to do both indoor and out. So don’t be sheepish, come down and join in the fun. If you book online in advance you can save 10% on ticket price. https://www.barleylands.co.uk/ 

So hopefully there’s plenty here for a fun week with the kids. For more ideas head over to my Instagram page @motherofalloutings

Let’s get Half Term started!

Like I said.....

I’m going to take you on The Mother of all Outings.

Nicola x