Parents all over the country are either breathing a sigh of relief (no school runs for awhile) or mildly panicking on entertainment choices as half term begins. Happily I can point you in the direction of an exciting free event which is also educational (just don’t tell the kids!)

The Ministry of Food is staging a whole week of activities at the Imperial War Museum North in Manchester. Learn about rationing and growing your own food during the Second World War. Ask why carrots were once eaten on sticks or parsnips used as a substitute for pineapple. Why were people encouraged to ‘Dig For Victory’ or what on earth is Woolton Pie?

The kids wont have time to get bored with creative sessions, hands-on art activities, storytelling and music. They’ll even be able to handle real artifacts!

Depending on which day you choose to visit, you could make your own gardener’s apron, colourful fruit basket or allotment tote bag. Under 5s are also catered for, Jo Jingles will be providing sing along sessions all based around food and growing your own. My children received some Jo Jingles sampler CDs and I’m sure your kids will love her.

There’s also a 360 degree cinema style experience to see the ‘War At Home Big Picture Show’.

The Museum Cafe is getting in on the act as well, selling ‘Ration Bags’ to hungry visitors.

Details

Open Studio Family Drop-in Session 22-30 October – daily 1-4pm.

Creative Activities:

• Gardeners Apron, 22, 23 October.
• Bountiful Baskets, 24, 25, 29, 30 October.
• Allotment Totes, 26, 27 & 28 October.

Jo Jingles Session (under 5s) 22, 25, 27 & 29 October.

Timestacks Object Handling, daily at 12.30pm and 3.30pm.

Visit the Imperial War Museum North website for more details