If you know of any events that are being held during half term that would be of interest to our Mumblers, then please get in touch at stag@mumbler.co.uk or via Facebook on our STAG Mumbler What’s On Page or STAG Mumbler Chat Group and we will add your event to this page.
Thank you and have a wonderful half term!
While our Easter School Holiday Special has lots of ideas for fun things to do, here’s a link to a few of our other pages you might find handy too.
World Book Day launched in 1995 and is an annual charity event held on the first Thursday in March. On World Book Day, every child in full-time education in the UK is given a voucher to spend on books.
Find out more and join the fun
“Our mission is to promote reading for pleasure, offering every child and young person the opportunity to have a book of their own. Reading for pleasure is the single biggest indicator of a child’s future success – more than their family circumstances, their parents’ educational background or their income. We want to see more children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, with a life-long habit of reading for pleasure and the improved life chances this brings them.” WBD
Embark on a delightful family adventure with City Cruises, the ultimate sightseeing experience along the picturesque River Ouse in York. Explore the city’s captivating history, marvel at its architectural wonders, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenic beauty during an entertaining cruise. City Cruises offers a variety of options tailored to your family’s preferences, whether you opt for guided tours led by local experts or prefer steering your own boat for a personalised adventure.
Engage in the rich narrative of York, expertly shared by knowledgeable guides, or take charge and craft your family’s unique journey on the water. City Cruises provides diverse choices to enrich your exploration, unveiling the hidden gems of York while enjoying the tranquillity of the river. Create memories that will last a lifetime as you secure your family’s spot for a tour or event with City Cruises today. Let the gentle flow of the River Ouse reveal the unparalleled beauty of York from a family-friendly perspective that promises an unforgettable experience for all.
T: 020 77 400 400
E: infoyork@citycruises.com
Visit Website
If you have any questions, please contact us by email on infoyork@citycruises.com
Join us at the Hole In Wand for 9 holes of magical mini golf this February half-term, but beware the presence of the Basilisk!
The legendary serpent king; venomous and with a lethal gaze is coming to the Hole In Wand to capture unsuspecting wizards in its deathly stare. But don’t fear, we have a fresh supply of our Basilisk Blood potion on hand to combat the threat. One sip will deflect the fatal glare, harness the power of the renowned reptile and turn the meekest of mouse into a fearless lion. The potion provides protection, but remember, be aware, do not look into the eyes and of course, have the most magical time.
💜 Quote YORK MUMBLER for a complimentary premium upgrade saving £2.00 per person! 💜 Quote YORK MUMBLER at Admissions on arrival to get an upgrade there and then.
14-16 Coppergate Walk, York
Visit the Glazed and Confused website or social media for full details of their super range of school holiday events.
Come to Glazed and Confused and enjoy the kitsch creativity! Take part in one of our many amazing art classes, or pop in for a relaxing paint session and choose one of the many pottery options to paint. We truly have something for everyone, and for all ages! Why not try a spin on the pottery wheel and learn to throw down with a 1:1! Release your inner kid, have an American coke float, sno-cone, or a luxury coffee whilst you channel your inner artist! You don’t have to be artistic to enjoy a visit to us.
Did you know we’re pet friendly? Yes, that’s right, there’s no need for anyone to be left at home, you can bring along your pets to enjoy the fun too.
“We had a fab time and believe it or not it was the big kid that took the longest . Lovely selection of items to paint, fantastic drink and a brilliant atmosphere. (Mainly the fabulous lady who runs the studio sorry I’m rubbish with names). We will be back.” DT, July 22
“My friend and I brought our two toddler boys this morning (and my 7month old) To the toddler session. Great relaxed atmosphere, perfect length of time for them. Danielle was lovely with the children (and us adults) very welcoming. A little snack and juice included and hot drinks for the adults, great value for money. Will definite attend a session again.” GH, June 22
We also host many parties including birthdays, Hen-do’s, Baby Shower’s and more! We offer several amazing party packages and aim to make your special event even more special!
At Glazed and Confused we specialise in Belly Casting for Mums-to-be, baby clay prints and painted prints as well as personalised memories for the nursery!
We also cherish all our furbabies at Glazed and Confused, which is why we also specialise in personalised pet portraits, animal clay paw prints, and painted prints! We will literally do any print for any animal that’s how much we love it! We can come to you or you can bring your furbabies to the studio!
Glazed and Confused also has a range of adorable takeaway kits and gifts readily available!
Come see what all the fuss is about and become a Glazed and Confused convert! We promise you’ll love us!
30 High Street, Tadcaster, LS24 9AT
Saturday 10th Feb through to Sunday 18th Feb 2024.
Morning sessions 10am-1pm, afternoon 2pm-5pm.
With jaw-dropping rides and amazing inflatables for all ages, Harrogate Indoor Funfair offers all the fun of the fair in an indoor, climate-controlled and family-friendly environment.
There is also a cafe and baby changing facilities for families on-site.
There is free parking at Yorkshire Event Centre including priority parking for blue badge holders.
The number 7 and X70 buses stop at Sainsbury’s on Wetherby Road, around one mile from the entrance.
Tickets on the door will be limited. We recommend booking online to avoid disappointment.
Riding wristbands can be purchased online for £12.99 – they will be available on the door for £14.99 subject to availability, so booking in advance is strongly urged. Riding wristbands grant access to the event, and to each ride inside – with the exception of food and games stalls. Spectator tickets for adults not wanting to go on the rides are £5, and babies carried in arms enter for free.
Valentine’s Day is all about sharing lots of love and there’s no reason why families can’t do that. Why not have a big Valentine’s Day Party at home? Here’s some ideas –
Valentine’s Day is just the start of half term, for more fun ideas of things to do, visit our February Half Term Special.
Within historic woodland along the River Nidd is Mother Shipton’s Cave, the birthplace of Yorkshire’s famous prophetess. It is situated next to the Petrifying Well, England’s oldest visitor attraction. The attraction tells the story of Mother Shipton and the water which turns objects to stone.
The park is a unique, unspoilt remnant of the Royal Forest of Knaresborough. During a visit it is an old tradition to make a wish. The Wishing Well is fed by the same magical waters as the Petrifying Well and has been wished upon for over 300 years. Many visitors have been in touch to tell us their wishes have come true!
The park has several scenic picnic areas, a coffee and ice cream kiosk, an adventure playground and museum and gift shop. Dogs are welcome in all areas, apart from the playground.
Themed events run during school holidays. For more information about family events visit our website.
Please check the website for up-to-date opening times and any unforeseen park closures.
Open weekends in March and daily from April.
Prophecy House, Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, HG5 8DD
T: 01423 864600
E: info@mothershipton.co.uk
Family fun pantomime at North Duffield Village Hall, 2nd/3rd Feb 2024, tickets available from ND shop £6 /£4 concessions.
NOW AT BOSTON SPA ACADEMY
Bookings live for February, Easter, May Half Term and Summer.
If you’re looking for active, educational camps for your children during school holidays, or want your children to play team games and access different sports in a supportive friendly environment, book with SCS Sports Camps Ltd! These multi-sports camps are run by experienced coaches, providing boys and girls age 4-13 the chance to play a variety of sports and team games. Wraparound childcare can be booked from 8.00-9.30 and 16.00-17.30. The camps are device free zones ensuring active, screen-free fun!
Numerous short team games run throughout the day to make sure kids get to try different sports without getting bored, with the programme of sports suiting all sporting tastes and all abilities. The sessions are carefully designed, and structured to both entertain, and educate. Simon Scholfield started SCS Sports Camps Ltd to provide fun learning through sports during school holidays using his extensive teaching and PE experience.
Join us at Selby library for Under 5’s Week from February 5th!
Please see poster below for a timetable of all of our special events for your little ones.
Please note that tickets are required for the Hoglets performance and Baby signing. These can be booked through Eventbrite via the links below.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/…/hoglets-puppet-theatre
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/…/baby-sign-with-sarah
P.S: Don’t forget to join the Buzzy Bee honey hunt, to get a cute little cuddly bee upon completion (whilst stocks last)
COMING UP SOON
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
Time: 3pm
Duration: 1hr
The Case of the Missing Bunny
It’s one thing going on an egg hunt but quite another going on an Easter Bunny hunt!
Join us at Mother GOOSE detective agency to go on a case like no other. This is an egg-tremely serious situation . . . it’s no yolk . . . .we must crack it . . . we shell crack it!
In typical Story Craft Theatre style, this show brings together puppetry, problem-solving and game playing like no other. Our aim? To get everyone working together to solve the missing bunny dilemma.
Age guide 2-8
Box Office: 01609 534521
BOOK ONLINE
There’s always so much fun to be had at Selby Library. You can view a full list of events here.
There’s always so much going on at Sherburn & Villages Community Library, you can see a full list of events here
Smiles and Miles Tutoring currently provides one to one private tutoring to students of all ages and abilities. Our mission is to inspire students to become happy, confident and resilient learners. We believe that if children have a positive view of learning, they will become lifelong learners and achieve their full potential.
In the current financial climate, and in addition to our one to one sessions, we would like our sessions to be accessible to all children who would benefit from them. Therefore, we will be offering group sessions over the next few months. These will be led by our amazing qualified teachers who will provide individualised learning experiences, covering targeted areas of learning in order to help students succeed.
Contact us for further information.
E: smilesandmilestutoring@gmail.com
T:07741252114
WEBSITE
Facebook and Instagram
Selby Community Centre, Scott Road, Selby, YO8 4BL
‘My daughter and I also had a brill time at a party, recently held at Tadcaster Swimming Pool. Lots of fun.’
HB, Jan 18
‘Wonderfully maintained beautiful pool with fabulous staff.’
RP, Nov 19
‘My son has had some 1 to 1 lessons with Lauren in the holidays she has been amazing with him. Really patient and she has helped him so much.’
AM, April 19
T: 01937 833001
32 Westgate, Tadcaster, LS24 9AB
SAVE 15% WHEN YOU USE CODE: STAGMUMBLER15
William’s Den February Half Term Adventures with Sublime Science
Join us this February half-term for all-day adventure play – with added science fun from Dragons’ Den winners Sublime Science and our Play Pioneers!
You are welcome to arrive anytime from 10 am, we’re open until 4 pm! Your day out with us also includes:
BOOK NOW to start this February half-term with a bang! And don’t miss out on this extraordinary experience!
T: 01430 472230
E: hello@williamsden.co.uk
Castle Farm, Wold Hill, North Cave, HU15 2LS.
Junction combines three purposes – the administrative and civic base for Goole Town Council, a community centre and a busy mixed use arts facility, hosting a wide range of live events, cinema and satellite screenings, a workshop programme and activities that reach out into our community.
Paradise Place, Goole, East Riding of Yorkshire, DN14 5DL
T: 01405 763652
AGILITY is one of the most exciting and unique centres for fitness in the UK. The main feature is two ninja warrior style obstacle courses catering for the whole family. Sports camps available throughout the year too.
T: 01904 340495
London Ebor Business Park, Millfield Lane, York, YO26 6QY
Join us for ‘Kids go Wild & Free‘ this Feb Half-Term (10th-18th) 🙌 a week filled with talks, crafts, events & games.
This week will be a TICKETED EVENT so please remember to Pre-Book your tickets on our website & remember to stick to your arrival time.
*Season Ticket Holders will not need to pre-book, please look out for the fast track lane when you arrive*
Surely they count as one of your five a day with all those strawberries packed in?
Full recipe available here
If you love chocolate as much as we do, then these delicious looking Easy Chocolate Mousse from Cookies and Cups might be right up your street.
Full recipe available here
Our mini mumblers absolutely love jam tarts, so we just had to throw in a recipe for these delicious looking ones from Great British Chefs another super easy Valentines Day in half term activity.
Full recipe available here
How delicious do these look from Chocolate with Grace? They wouldn’t last two minutes at STAG HQ. A nice easy baking activity, even with little ones.
Full recipe available here
Cupcakes can be a great option when baking with kids and these one from Simon Rimmer via BBC Food look simply delicious.
Full recipe available here
You could show someone a serious amount of love with these delicious looking cookies from Stork
They’re sure to be a hit with the kids!
Full recipe available here
There are so many things to see and do in the Selby District with kids, our family-friendly New Year Guide will help you make the most of your time in this beautiful and historic place we call home in the Heart of Yorkshire.
From woodland walks, to exploring amazing history, from fabulous family friendly dining, to splashtastic fun and crafts , there’s something for all the family.
We are so lucky to have so many wonderful local classes and groups in our area, from toddler groups, to dance classes, bring your baby yoga, to football and performing arts. Our website is packed full of them, you can search by day of the week or activity and each one comes recommended before being listed, ensuring you have the choice of the very best. Joining a local class or group is a great opportunity to have time with your mini mumbler, or time for you, to meet other people, and develop new skills. We’ve provided some quick links below.
Visit our Weekly Classes and Groups pages here –
Monday’s Classes
Tuesday’s Classes
Wednesday’s Classes
Thursday’s Classes
Friday’s Classes
Saturday’s Classes
Sunday’s Classes
Since the start of 2024, our new family goal has been to go out every Sunday morning for a family walk. Where we end up afterwards varies, whether that be a stop off at a local cafe for hot chocolate and cake, off to a cosy pub for a yummy Sunday lunch, or simply back home for a snuggle on the sofa with a good film, but our aim is to get out and explore the amazing world around us, venture on walks we’ve never done, find places we’ve never been, and spend device free, quality time together as a family. As well as some amazing parks and walks available in the Selby District and surrounding, we also have some wonderful Days Out locations too, we’ve provided a helpful list below. Our babies aren’t babies for long, so whatever you get up, just enjoy the time spent together.
Check out our 10 ideas to make family walks more fun blog
Check out the three themed Selby District Trails
Why not print off and do our Outdoor Scavenger Hunt while you’re out and about?
Visit our Walks and the Great outdoors page
Visit our Days Out Page
Visit the Heart of Yorkshire website for more fun ways to explore our home in the heart of Yorkshire.
We are so lucky to have such a wonderful abbey right on our doorstep. Steeped with incredible history and architecture, it’s a fantastic place to visit and explore. There are always special events taking place, given you even more opportunity to explore everything it has to offer, and there’s even a super new family activity trail to explore.
Why not spend a morning discovering the history of Selby Abbey, then an afternoon exploring it in person? You can even make a stop off in the gift shop and coffee shop for an extra little treat.
📍 Where is it? The Crescent, Selby, YO8 4PU
Visit the Selby Abbey Facebook Page
Find out more about Selby Abbey and its events
A big favourite here at STAG Mumbler. When our youngest was little, we loved visiting Selby Garden Centre, it’s all flat and pram friendly. We loved walking around and looking at all the lovely plants and picking up some treats from the shop. We’d then finish off with some time in The Garden Gate Restaurant enjoying something yummy. Now he’s not so little, we still love popping in for a weekend breakfast or the perfect place to meet up with Nanny Mumbler or a friend. The team are always so lovely and friendly, and they have the perfect selection of food. Whether you’re looking for a delicious breakfast, a tasty hot lunch, or just some yummy cake and a coffee, there is so much to choose from.
📍 Where is it? Hull Rd, Osgodby, Selby, YO8 5HG
Visit the Selby Garden Centre Facebook Page
Find out more about the wonderful delights of The Garden Gate Restaurant
The Tadcaster Community Swimming Pool first opened in December 1994 and is one of the region’s most popular swimming pool and fitness venues.
As well as having a super pool, TCSP also offers a full range of fun activities all throughout the year, including school holiday activities, open swims, fun swims, swim parties, swimming lessons, a fitness suite and more! We always advise booking before you go.
📍 Where is it? Westgate, Tadcaster, LS24 9AB
Visit the Tadcaster Community Swimming Pool Facebook Page for what’s on
Find out more about Tadcaster Community Swimming Pool
There’s no better way to start the new year, than having a good old clear out. Get rid of the things that no longer bring you joy and just clutter up your home, and start a fresh. Remember, one families unused items are another families treasure, and giving outgrown clothes and toys to another family not only helps the environment and brings joy to others, but donating to our wonderful local charities is a super way to support them too.
Visit our Having a clear out Page where you will find lots of super local organisations you can donate to.
Ever thought of volunteering? If you or a relative has a few spare hours available each week, get in touch with any of the organisations listed as we know they are always desperate for new volunteers to help them, and without these wonderful individuals, they would be unable to continue to do the amazing work they do for our community.
If your mini mumblers love reading as much as ours do, then a trip to one of our super local libraries should definitely be on the list. It’s fun and free, and a great way to broaden their imagination. Why limit them to just the books at home, when here in the library then can explore a whole world of books.
Did you know there’s even free online access to Ancestry.com? Why not spend some time discovering your family’s history together? You could grab some paper and pencils and draw a family tree together.
Did you know that having a library card gives you free access to thousands of e-books, magazines ,and digital audiobooks?
📍 Where is it? Selby Library – 52 Micklegate, Selby, YO8 4EQ
Visit the Selby Library Facebook Page for events
Find out more information about Selby Library
📍 Where is it? Sherburn & Villages Community Library – Finkle Hill, Sherburn in Elmet, LS25 6EA
Visit the Sherburn & Villages Community Library Facebook Page for more info and events
Find out more about the Sherburn & Villages Community Library
📍 Where is it? Tadcaster Community Library, Station Road, Tadcaster, LS24 9JG
Visit the Tadcaster Community Library Facebook page for events
Find out more about Tadcaster Community Library
Whether you’re looking for local attractions, super walks, somewhere to ride your bike or a new park or playground, our Days Out page is full of ideas for things to do, all searchable by type of activity.
Visit our Days Out page
At the end of last year STAG Mumbler spent a day at Deighton Lodge, it was the perfect mum escape and the wake up call we needed to remind us how important it us to look after ourselves as parents, and how making time for you isn’t selfish, it just enables you to replenish and give more to others. Why not book some time in for you this year?
Yoga at Deighton Lodge
Give back to your Wellness and it will help protect you from illness!
Deighton Lodge offers a variety of different Wellness Days and Yoga classes.
Click here for more info on their range of retreats and wellness days.
📍 Where is it? Deighton Lodge, York Rd, York, YO19 6HQ
T: 07468 496143
E: carla@deightonlodge.com
Visit the new www.exploreheartofyorkshire.co.uk website which showcases the many reasons why residents and visitors should spend their leisure time here in our district.
Open every day for half term, 10 – 18 February 2024, and free to National Trust members and under-fives.
Grab a free winter trail following two friendly dogs around the garden to become an Awesome Architect. Covering all ages, Dick the little pup is for little children with Rover, the bigger pup for older children.
Head over to the Wilderness Play Area to find your favourites on or spend time in the den zone. Clamber on the stacks, cross the rope bridge to the slides and choose from one of the swings – the pendulum is perfect for the more adventurous.
T: 01904 472027
We love this candy heart garland from Tell Love and Party you can use the traditional Love Hearts messages or make your own.
Full directions on how to make available here
We love this Valentine’s Day Tree from The House that Lars Built.
View full directions on how to make here
We love these beautiful thumbprint heart jars from All started with paint. A great way to upcycle old jars and to make precious memories at the same time.
Full directions available here
Did you know that the North York Moors National Park is one of just seven locations across the UK which is recognised as an International Dark Sky Reserve? The low light pollution makes this a fantastic area to enjoy the night sky and see sights that aren’t visible elsewhere.This extraordinary event is designed for the entire family, offering a myriad of after-dark adventures to ignite your sense of wonder.
More info available via the Dark Skies website
T: 01439 772700
Go on an archaeological adventure at DIG, from the people who brought you JORVIK Viking Centre! Discover only the most exciting archaeological artefacts from the 2000 years of history hidden under the streets of York. Four excavation pits are filled with Roman, Viking, medieval and Victorian finds, so you can grab a trowel and dig up the clues that show how people lived.
DIG is great experience for ages 5-12 with a fun play area for younger children.
St Saviour’s Church, St Saviourgate, York, YO1 8NN
T: 01904 615505
The Web Adventure Park is guaranteed fun for all ages – whatever of weather! With something for everyone, come and explore the huge slides, the outdoor climbing frames, our brand-new ninja course, the baby sensory area, the animal zone, and so much more. With over 11 rides to choose from, for babies all the way up to older children, as well as unlimited goes, it’s hours of total family fun. From the Helter Skelter, to the Sizzler Twist, to the Cup ‘n’ Saucer!
T: 01904 692221
RHS Garden Harlow Carr, 10-18 February 2024
The Royal Horticultural Society is inviting families to uncover the World On Your Windowsill this February half term, with a week of fun family activities. Create your own herb character and plant it up to take home and grow on your windowsill, join the Garden Detectives on a storytelling adventure learning all about how to grow your own food, or take part in a storytelling yoga session with Enchantica’s Workshop. And of course, you can also have a go on the garden trail.
T: 01423 565418
We love this simple game idea from Real creative Real Organized
Get crafty making the target and then have family fun trying to score the most points.
Full directions available here
We love this super easy game from Skip to my Lou
Don’t worry if you can’t get hold of Hershey’s Kisses, any wrapped heart shaped sweet will do. Can’t find heart shaped wrapped sweets? No problem, just grab any heart shaped sweets and wrap them in a small piece of tin foil or recycled sweet wrappers.
Full game details available here
We love a good scavenger hunt here at STAG HQ and this one from Wildly Charmed doesn’t disappoint. Think Easter Egg Hunt, this super easy and fun Valentine’s Day activity will be great fun for all the family to get involved with.
Full details available here
Sunday 11th February 2024: Little play dreamers is an imaginative play setting with early years and educational elements woven into the foundation of each session. Books and storytelling build the foundation for the sessions, with a hands-on themed activity, the opportunity for open-ended play and dedicated wind-down time.
14 months – 4 years: 9.30am / Older children/family session : 10.30am
Chapel Haddelsey Community Hall
T: 07446 080970
Ever find that with working, entertaining, trying to keep the house tidy, that you’re exhausted by bedtime? Why not get a little help from others? Take a night when you’d usually do bedtime stories, let them choose from one of these and either snuggle together and enjoy someone else reading, or use the time to nip and get a few jobs done or have some much needed you time.
There is so much fun to be had when a family all gets involved in fitness. Whether you’re doing it in your home, garden or out on a walk, this page is packed full of ideas.
If like us, you have a house full of snack monsters, you’ll know first hand how hard it can be spreading them out throughout the day and keeping those little tummies full, without spending a fortune. Here we’ve shared some snack ideas.
Whether you do crafts indoors or outdoors, on your own, or as a whole family, this page is packed full of ideas.
The nights seem to be getting a little lighter and we’re sure there’s been a little more sunshine creeping through lately. So why not get wrapped up and go and explore our wonderful outdoors. Whether you’re in your back garden or exploring the world beyond, this page is packed full of ideas.
T: 01904 489966
Oxygen York – the NEW indoor free-jumping, Active Play, climbing & trampolining centre at Clifton Moor – is opening on Monday 12th February 2024 – just in time for half term! Oxygen is a Free-Jumping, climbing, soft play and trampolining centre for lots of energetic fun.
Clifton Moor Centre, Hurricane Way, Rawcliffe, York, YO30 4XU
T: 020 8050 1315
Don’t forget it’s Pancake Day during half term. If your Mini Mumblers love the all American style pancakes, then here’s a pancake recipe from Miriam Nice via BBC Good Food.
Full recipe available here
Don’t forget, it’s Pancake Day during half term, so don’t forget to book in a day of fun, making some super ones. You could stick with a Valentine’s Day theme and make these lovely looking ones from Two Peas and Their Pod.
Full recipe available here
Don’t forget it’s Pancake Day during half term. If your Mini Mumblers love more of a traditional recipe, then here’s an easy pancake recipe from Cassy Best via BBC Good Food.
Full recipe available here
Lambing at Spilman’s this half term! Book now via our website for your chance to experience farming life and see what lambing time is like at Spilman’s Farm this February half term! Experience a true farming day out for all the family! Visit Spilmans this February and see what lambing time is like on the farm. Bring your little farmers to see newly born lambs and learn all about this special time of year.
You can visit on the following dates: Sat 10 – Sun 11, Thur 15 – Sun 18 & Thur 22 – Sun 25 February 2024.
Spilmans, Church Farm, Sessay, Thirsk YO7 3NB
T: 07754 857284
This kept our mini mumbler busy for hours!!
Now in its 39th year, this event attracts visitors from all over to the streets of York, to march with the Vikings, learn new crafts, brush up on battle skills and prove (once and for all) they really do have the best beard! The full programme of events has been released online. If money is tight at the moment then don’t let that put you off; we have included more free and low cost events than ever to ensure everyone can join in the fun, these include:
Visit our website for further info
There’s nothing harder than looking after kids when you’re tired or poorly. Much as we love them, they’re not the most sympathetic of creatures and will still want to bounce off the walls – and expect you to join in too!
The Duracell Bunny’s got nothing on my kids, but I’ve learned a few tricks along the way to buy peace and quiet when I’m desperate. Here are our favourite things to do with little ones when you’re shattered, poorly, or just need a bit of time to yourself.
Build a cushion fort: Pull the cushions off the sofa and let the kids get busy! They will enjoy bouncing around on it all and it only takes a few minutes to put away later.
Have a dance party: Sit back, play some music on your phone and let them bust the moves. You could also blow bubbles, or break out some glow sticks.
Soft furnishings obstacle course: This is great if they’ve got energy to burn! Tell them to make tunnels with cushions and other obstacles to climb and crawl across. They could pretend the floor is crocodile infested water and leap from cushion to cushion to escape!
Start a cupboard of cheap toys: My mother-in-law is a master of stashing away cheap toys and crafts for emergencies or rainy days. She often has a few of each, so no squabbling about who gets what. It works a treat and I have started my own with sticker books, fancy pens and colouring stuff, playdoh and joke toys. A Whoopie Cushion was a big hit recently!
Set a design challenge: Can they build a boat using only paper? Or an airplane from matchsticks? A tower from straws? Add glue, sticky tape and scissors, then sit back and enjoy the creativity.
Let them put on a show: An old cardboard box makes a great theatre, but kids are inventive and will figure something out. They could enjoy acting, use puppets (or make their own!), or their hands to make shadow animals.
Have a bath with regular toys: Baths are always a brilliant distraction for my kids, especially if they choose toys that aren’t usually allowed in there. Obviously, don’t use anything electrical, and only things that are okay to get wet.
Do Yoga: Cosmic Kids is a great yoga channel on You Tube, with lots of themed yoga sessions especially for kids. Some of our favourites are Frozen, Moana and Harry Potter. Even the three-year-old gets stuck in!
Play with a flashlight: Close the curtains, turn out the lights and hand out torches. They can make patterns on the wall, shadow animals with their hands, or go on an indoor scavenger hunt.
Build a tent under the table: An old blanket draped over the dining table makes a cool tent for the kids to hang out in. They can take in cushions and pillows to make it extra comfy, as well as a torch, snacks and water bottles, toys, colouring and anything else to keep them busy, all while you relax.
Yoga, mindfulness and relaxation designed specially for kids aged 3+, used in schools and homes all over the world.
Jamie delivers her sessions in a fun and interactive way, with themes to suit all ages, including Frozen, Harry Potter, Trolls and many more.
York Ice Trail is back on Saturday 3rd & Sunday 4th of February 2024. York Ice Trail organisers, Make It York, are excited to announce the theme for 2024! The theme for York Ice Trail 2024 will transform York into the ‘City of Dreams’ and invite people to dream big and let their creativity run wild.
Free York Ice Trail maps will be available from the Visitor Information Centre at 21 Parliament Street or can be downloaded online.
York Minster is a fantastic destination for family days out in York with loads of things to see and do. We have lots of activities, events and learning resources to enjoy in the Minster to make the most of your family’s visit. Visit the website for free family-friendly trails before you visit and get the most from your trip to York Minster.
York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
T: 01904 557200
Thursday 15th – Saturday 17th February 2024
York Panto Crew is back with a truly tangled show. Heroes to cheer, villains to boo, jokes to keep you groaning and songs to sing along to! Book early for one of our four free performances (incl Saturday matinee). Tickets via Eventbrite – search “Rapunzel York”.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, West Bank, Acomb, YO24 4ES
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