11 Raring2go! WHAT'S ON AND WHERE TO GO There's nothing quite like a family walk to get some fresh air, exercise, and quality time together. But let's be honest - getting the kids engaged and having fun on a walk can be a challenge. We're blessed with brilliant walking spots right on our doorstep, from the Pennine Trail to the Bridgewater Canal towpaths. With a bit of creativity, you can turn a mundane walk into a memorable adventure for the whole family. First up, let them pick the route and destination. Kids will be far more invested if they feel ownership. Let them browse maps and suggest places they'd like to explore, even if it's just the park down the road. You can make it an adventure by taking transport part of the way - we're spoilt for choice with metrolink, trains and buses. Once you're on your walk, keep things engaging with games and challenges. Play I-Spy, but with themes like colours, shapes, or things beginning with each letter of the alphabet. Alternatively, you could turn it into a wildlife spotting expedition and try to spot the most bird species or minibeasts. For little ones, bring a bag and collect treasures along the way like feathers, pinecones and interestingly shaped sticks or stones. Reward systems can work wonders too. Stash some treats in your bag as incentives for making it to certain landmarks or distances. Or you could turn it into a wacky walk - award points for enthusiastic greetings to passers-by or practising circus skills as you go! Most importantly, go at their pace, take breaks, and above all, have fun. Bring snacks, toys and even a ball to kick around. The sillier and more spontaneous you can be, the more your kids will engage and cherish these priceless family moments. Fun for all on a family walk Stepping stones at Sale Water Park Our favourite spots for a stroll: Castlefield Viaduct Sale Water Park Chorlton Water Park Transpennine Way Bridgewater Canal Lymm Dam, Lymm Blue Peter Garden Trail, Mediacity Walks where you can grab a coffee: River Mersey with a stop at Riverbank Coffee A stroll to Into the Wild Coffee Shack, Ashley
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