Raring2go! Kidderminster & Stourbridge

Visit Wolves Museum & Stadium Tours for some great activities this Easter! Available on 28th March and 2nd April 2024 BOOK NOW! events.wolves.co.uk/ molineux-stadium-tours/wolves-presents APRIL TO JUNE EVENTS raring2go.co.uk SPRING 2024 KIDDERMINSTER & STOURBRIDGE MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD FANTASTIC COMPETITIONS! CLUBS AND CLASSES

Raring2go! GO-TO GUIDE 3 Raring2go! EDITOR’S WELCOME 2 raring2go.co.uk Adults: £7 | Seniors: £6.50 | Children: £3.50 | RHS and Gardeners World concessions available. Look out for details of our upcoming events and activities on Facebook and at: arleyarboretum.co.uk Spring at Arley Explore, discover & make memories at Arley Arboretum Kids’ Spring Trail In conjunction with our artist in residence, Sarah Stokes. Easter Egg Hunt How many eggs can you find around the Arboretum? Plant Fair A fine selection of in season blooms to browse and buy. Peter Pan Outdoor Theatre keep an eye on our website for more details and booking. Launches Saturday 23rd March 23rd March – 7th April Monday 27th May Friday 26th July Mini-Pro Golf Parks, Wolverley Road, Wolverley, Kidderminster, DY10 3RN Situated next to THE LOCK INN Public House OPEN EVERY DAY DURING THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS NO NEED TO BOOK! Just turn up and we always get you on Family Fun For Everyone! 18 HOLE MINI-PRO GOLF COURSE ALL EQUIPMENT PROVIDED Chip and putt golf in a perfect setting. Easily accessible location with free parking. Why not make a day of it by stopping off for lunch at the Lock Inn pub, conveniently situated next door. Mini-Pro Golf Parks Wolverley Road Wolverley, Kidderminster, DY10 3RN CONTENTS: P06-13 What’s On this Easter P10-11 Plan the perfect Easter Egg Hunt P13-15 Holiday clubs P15-17 Clubs and classes P18 Education P19 What’s On May P20 Olympics 2024 P22 What’s On June P23 Festivals P26-27 Family Theatre P28-29 Raring2read P31 Competitions Whatever you do, wherever you go, have fun, and mention Raring2go! Published by Raring2go! Kidderminster & Stourbridge. All information in this booklet is published in good faith and cannot be reproduced without written permission. Whilst the publisher makes every effort to ensure that the businesses featured in this magazine are of the highest quality, we do not guarantee the services and products from any businesses featured. We also undertake to ensure that all advertising is in the best interests of families and young children. Printed by Gemini Print, Shoreham, Surrey. @Raring2goKidderminster raring2go.kiddyandstourbridge Hello Spring Bringing much wanted longer days and the awakening of nature from its deep wintry slumber. Buds begin to blossom and the landscape transforms as it bursts into vivid splashes of colour catching our eyes glinting in the spring sunshine. Now is the time to get out and about and enjoy this fresh new season. There are lots of things going on during the Easter and May school holidays, plus a Bank Holiday to enjoy and Father’s Day! Have a flick through this magazine for ideas on where to go and what to do. Plus keep visiting the R2go! website and social media for up-to-date events; it’s updated daily! Lucy Richardson, Editor kidderminster@raring2go.co.uk | 07404 463 773 Lucy x CONGRATULATIONS to our Winter competition winners: Tumble Tots Lisa Aldridge ThinkTank Ethan Collins Countrytastic Nicola Brassington Lower Drayton Farm Laura Hickman Dudley Zoo Kate Pilcher

Raring2go! GO-TO GUIDE 5 Raring2go! PLACES2GO 4 raring2go.co.uk Easter & May Bank Holidays with The Listening herd CIC www.thelisteningherd.com PICNIC WITH THE PONIES From 11am to 1pm Come and spend time with our beautiful herd. They love a “pamper day” and you can spend the time making them beautiful. Bathing, brushing, picking feet, plaiting manes and tails, feeding and offering herbs and oils. When all that is done then we will have a picnic with them. If anyone does not want to spend time with the ponies, We will also be having sports sessions on our pitch. These will be based around Cricket, football, badminton, table skittles, Hula hoops, athletics and more. Parents can stay and have cake and a cuppa whilst relaxing and enjoying our beautiful land, or leave your children with us. We are based in Chaddesley Corbett, are fully insured and DBS checked. For more details or to book call Helene on 07718 808118. £15.00 per child, bring your own picnic We will supply drinks, biscuits and home made cakes. Easter Monday 25ᵗʰ March Tuesday 26ᵗʰ March Wednesday 27ᵗʰ March May Bank Holiday Wednesday 29ᵗʰ May Thursday 30ᵗʰ May Friday 31ˢᵗ May SATURDAY 13th APRIL STEP INTO THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF CHILDREN’S STORIES in Bewdley 19 EVENTS ACROSS THE TOWN FOR ALL CHILDREN, 3 - TEEN Details & Tickets: stepintostories.org.uk Meet your favourite authors Supported by Saturday 13th April 2024 from 9:45am Do you want to make a difference? If you know how hard it is to be a parent and could give up 2-3 hours a week to visit a family with children 0-18 years who are experiencing difficulties, why not become a Home-Start Volunteer? Full training, support and travel expenses provided. Volunteers can visit anytime of the day, any day of the week (including weekends). The role is subject to a DBS Enhanced Disclosure. For further information please contact Joanne on: 01562 825896 or email info@homestartwyreforest.org.uk “Volunteering has changed my life. It makes me happy and puts a smile on my face” Lucy Richardson Homestart.qxp_Layout 1 05/02/2024 10:08 Page 1

Raring2go! WHAT’S ON Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 6 raring2go.co.uk 7 This is just a guide. Some details may change, and some events require pre-booking. Please check with the venue before setting off. 23 March Mary Stevens Hospice, Easter Coffee Morning We are so excited to bring our annual Easter Coffee Morning & Jigsaw Festival to the Hospice on Saturday 23rd March. Join us for an early start to your Easter celebrations and indulge in coffee and cake while you’re here! www.marystevenshospice.co.uk/events/ 23 - 24 March Severn Valley Railway, Visit from Bluey Wackadoo! Take an exciting heritage train ride out into the countryside to see Bluey, who will be appearing at regular intervals throughout the day at The Engine House Visitor Centre, Highley. www.svr.co.uk/event/visit-from-bluey/ *SEE PAGE 12-13 FOR LOCAL EASTER EGG HUNTS* All the following are 23 March - 7 April Wild Zoological Park, Wild World of Dinosaurs New for 2024 “Wild World of Dinosaurs” live show. There’s also close up animal encounters, walk through habitats and award winning wildlife displays including “WILD WINGS” the UK’s biggest free flight bird show spectacular! www.wildzoo.co.uk Little Owl Farm Park, Spring into Easter What a jam packed 2 weeks we have planned for you! We’ll have our next lot of lambs due as well as lambs to bottle feed. Plus the return of some Spring favourites, including tractor rides. www.littleowlfarmpark.co.uk/whats-on/ Lower Drayton Park, Dino Egg Hatchery The farm has a new batch of Dino eggs to hatch – and you can see them this Easter, meet baby dinos, learn lots of dino facts, film and watch our reptile talk all in the Dino Egg Hatchery. All part of your PLAY@ Easter holiday ticket alongside indoor & outdoor play, large & small animal zones, farm trailer rides, Easter scavenger hunt & Easter bunny selfies! Get 10% off with code KDEGG. www.playatthefarm.co.uk/easter-fun/ West Midlands Safari Park, Easter Egg-stravaganza Hop into the Easter festivities at our Easter Eggstravaganza. Join the egg hunts, meet Bramble Bunny and enjoy a range of themed activities for the whole family. You’re sure to have an egg-citing time! www.wmsp.co.uk/wmsp-events/easter/ Arley Arboretum, Spring Trail This year we will be running a series of children’s trails that look at the Arboretum through the seasons. The spring trail includes artist Sarah Stokes beautiful, hand painted images of animals and birds, tangible links to nature in spring, and simple movement activities - all helping to keep the little ones engaged. www.arleyarboretum.co.uk/arley-kids/ Bodenham Arboretum, Easter fun In addition to The Easter Trail for the duration of the holiday, you can also enjoy: Easter Craft sessions: 25 + 26 Mar and 1 + 2 Apr. Easter Baking sessions: 28 Mar and 5 Apr. The Animal Man: 29 Mar and 4 Apr. www.bodenhamarboretum.co.uk Hagley Park, Home run Hounds event In addition to the Easter Egg Hunt for the duration of the holiday, you can also enjoy a special surprise visit on Easter Sunday (31st March) and event to raise vital funds for ‘Home Run Hounds’ including a treasure hunt, raffle and prizes for best dressed pooch and owner! www.hagleypark.co.uk Hartlebury Castle, Easter Family Trail See if you can find all the animals on our Castle wide trail in the Easter holidays! Additionally, enjoy Easter crafts on 26 March, and an Easter Eggstravaganza 29 March - 1 April, where you will What’s on this Easter have a cracking time hunting for Easter eggs, win a chocolate prize and meet the Easter Bunny! www.hartleburycastle.com/events/ 25 March - 5 April ThinkTank, Our World From Space Come and join us for a fun, family show running on weekdays at 11.30am and 1pm. Build the Sun, Moon, and Earth out of people to see how they move in space, discover how rockets take off, recreate the orbits of satellites, and learn how they pay a big role in wildlife conservation. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/events/ 25 - 27 March The Listening Herd Come and spend time with our beautiful herd. They love a “pamper day” and you can spend the time making them beautiful. Bathing, brushing, picking feet, plaiting manes and tails, feeding and offering herbs and oils. www.thelisteningherd.org 25 + 27 March, 2 April Take a Leaf Forest School, Easter Sessions Hop into Spring at these sessions, with Susie or Laura, the Forest School Leaders. Their background is in primary education, teaching, lecturing and SEN provision. We will have rabbits and guinea pigs there too! www.takealeaf.net/events-bookings 28 March The Black Country Living Museum, Rag Rug Flowers Bring the family and get hands-on in our heritage skills workshop. Try the traditional art of rag-rugging... with a floral twist! Expert tutor Kerri will show you how to craft a fun ‘rag-rug flower’, which you’ll be able to take home with you at the end of the session. www.bclm.com 28 March & 2 April Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club, Wolfie’s Easter Stadium Tours Take a highlights tour of Molineux (approx 40 mins), visiting the home and away changing rooms, players’ tunnel and pitch side, and meet Wolfie! Each child attending will receive an Easter egg. Also included is a visit to the fantastic Wolves Museum. The perfect Easter treat! www.events.wolves.co.uk/molineux-stadium-tours/wolves-presents/ 29 March - 2nd April Dudley Canal and Tunnel Trust, Alice in Easter Wonderland Alice and her Wonderland pals invite you to a splendid Easter escapade! You’ll be amazed by the enchanting sights as you explore the underground world of the mysterious tunnels. Grab your trail sheet and free gift before you hop on our extraordinary boat trip that will take you on a fantastical journey down the rabbit hole and through the wonderful world of Lewis Carroll’s novel. Little Skippers Easter sessions running on 25 + 26 March. www.dudleycanaltrust.org.uk 3 - 5 April The World Outside, Forest school sessions Wed & Fri: Mini Wilderness Explorers (under 5s) 10 - 11am, and, Wilderness Explorers (5 - 12 years) 12 - 2pm. Thur: Wilderness Explorers (5 - 12 years). 10 - 12 noon and 1 - 3pm. www.theworldoutside.co.uk 13 April Step into Stories, Childrens Literature Festival in Bewdley To celebrate the wonderful world of children’s stories, we are bringing together a host of fantastic authors, poets and storytellers to perform in venues across the town, to celebrate all that is amazing about the world of children’s stories. www.stepintostories.org.uk

Raring2go! PLACES2GO Raring2go! PLACES2GO 8 raring2go.co.uk 9 Meet baby animals • Farm trailer ride Farm trailer ride Scavenger hunt • Golden Egg challenge Golden Egg challenge Easter Bunny Selfies • Indoor Play Indoor Play Animal Zones • Outdoor Adventure Outdoor Adventure Saturday 23rd March - Sunday 7th April Monday 18th & Friday 22nd March PLUS TODDLER SESSIONS www.playatthefarm.co.uk Book online now: Check out our Easter eggs with a difference! Meet our baby Dinos • Learn lots of Dino facts Reptile talk & interactions SAVE 10%Use code KDEGG Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Q Wonderland Alice in Easter Enjoy a fun themed boat trip with us this Easter! Pre booking is essential, book quick to avoid disappointment. 29th March - 2nd April 2024 www.dudleycanaltrust.org.uk 0121 557 6265 info@dctt.org.uk Tickets just £12.50 each! Under 3's go free! SPRING AT LITTLE OWL FARM PARK For more info and to book, please head to www.littleowlfarmpark.co.uk Enjoy making some magical memories with your loved ones this Spring at Little Owl Farm Park. Open 7 days a week during the school holidays lamb bottle feeds lambing shed spring Explorers Quest 4 x indoor play areas 5 x Outdoor Play Areas plus so much more!

10 raring2go.co.uk 11 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? Easter time calls for lots of Chocolate-y fun. Kids (and adults) love searching around for hidden treats so here are some hints and tips from Raring2go! to make this year’s hunt the best yet. Easter Egg Hunts and Trails You could have some fun with your little ones ahead of the hunt by decorating a container with Easter pictures and stickers. If you have a big garden with lots of bushes and plants to hide eggs behind that’s great but make sure you have a contingency plan to move indoors if the weather is against you. Young children will want to enjoy their chocolate rewards as soon as they find them. If you are planning a big family lunch think about timings to make sure you don’t ruin their appetites ahead of the meal. Keep the sugar levels in check by including some non-chocolate Easter egg alternatives such as small Easter themed puzzles, colouring-in, small soft toys or wearable bunny ears. You could hide the prizes in plastic eggs to keep up the ‘egg’ theme. A series of clues can make for a more ordered hunt as well as making the fun and entertainment last a little longer. Choose word based or picture clues to suit the ages of your children. Grandparents and other friends and family who can’t be there on the day could record short video clues. If toddlers or small children are involved, don’t hide the eggs too high, and also make sure that there is nothing potentially dangerous. Add a few extra treats for greedy grown-ups who want to tuck in! Count the eggs before you hide them and keep track of how many have been found. (23 March – 7 April) Hunt the Golden Egg at Bodenham Arboretum Follow the clues hidden around the Arboretum to find the Golden Egg & then collect a prize! Egg Hunt at Arley Arboretum Wooden eggs will be hidden around the Arboretum this Easter for the kids to find as you enjoy a wonder. The kids will report how many eggs they have found to our egg-cellent kiosk staff, and will get a prize if they find them all (or most of them!). Easter Eggstravaganza at West Midland Safari Park Hop into the Easter festivities at this Easter Eggstravaganza. Join the egg hunts, meet Bramble Bunny and enjoy a range of themed activities for the whole family. You’re sure to have an egg-citing time! Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? .co.uk Plan the Perfect Easter Egg Hunt Easter Egg Hunt at Hagley Park Visit this Easter to hunt for eggs hidden within Hagley Park, designed by local schools and community groups. Easter Trail at Whitlenge Gardens Come and enjoy the gardens decorated with bunnies and eggs galore! Even the fairies are joining in! Easter Egg Hunt at Attingham Park From 16 March. Make your way along the trail and find springinspired activities for the whole family. Easter Treasure Hunt at Wall Heath On 30 March only. Find clues on our Easter Treasure Hunt, it will be a barrel o laughs and all for only a fiver per kid. Find WHVP VILLAGE EVENTS on Facebook for more details. Easter Scavenger Hunt at Habberley Trail 29 March - 1 April. Explore the trail, decipher clues, and uncover the secret Easter sentence. A delightful Easter egg prize awaits! Easter Adventure Quest at Witley Court Runs until 14 April. Hunt for clues in the castle grounds, track down the Easter eggs and get rewarded with a tasty chocolate treat.

Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 13 Raring2go! PLACES2GO 12 raring2go.co.uk There’s always lots to see and do at For kids activities and events, visit webbs.co.uk/ whats-on Ongoing River Severn Canoes We re-open again for the season in March 2024 and are now taking bookings! Looking to hire a canoe on the River Severn or a Kayak on the Kinver canal? We offer a range of self-guided canoe trips on the River Severn & sit on top kayaks on the canal based at The Vine Inn, Kinver. www.riverseverncanoes.co.uk Mini Pro Golf, Wolverley Open for 2024 season the weekend before Easter. New Feature holes are: The Elephants Crossing, Ides of March, The Minefields ‘Bunker’. www.miniprogolfparks.com Holiday Clubs: RB Holiday Clubs 25 March - 5 April. Ofsted Registered Holiday Camps combining Sports, Arts & Crafts and Team Games. www.rbholidaycamps.co.uk What’s on this Easter Earls Gymnastics 25 March - 5 April. Fun filled days of gymnastics, team building, arts and crafts, and much more! www.earlsgymnastics.co.uk/holiday-camps Aspire Active Camp 25 March - 5 April. Keeping children happy, healthy and having fun over the school holidays with our Ofsted registered holiday clubs. www.aaeg.co.uk/active-camps Kixx Kidderminster, King Charles I School Kixx Stourbridge, Soccerzone in Cradley 25 March - 5 April. Choose from football, dance and martial arts. For more details call 07834 073939, email martin@kixx.org.uk. www.facebook.com/kixxstourbridge www.facebook.com/KixxKidderminster Little Netters 25 + 26 March. Activities include Skills and Drills, Team building, Crafts and Fun games. www.littlenetters.net

Raring2go! CLUBS AND CLASSES 15 Raring2go! HOLIDAY CAMPS 14 raring2go.co.uk Scan the QR code for more information! Contact us today! 0121 695 1394 Multi-Sports Activity Camp Book your place today at: rbholidaycamps.co.uk BOOK EARLY* Stourbridge, Halesowen, Kidderminster and Wolverhampton 25th - 28th March 2nd - 5th April 28th – 31st May *Offer ends 5pm Friday 15th March Ofsted registered Action-packed childcare this Easter & Whitsun BOOK ONLINE Easter Dates Week 1 25th – 28th March Week 2 2nd – 5th April Whitsun Dates 28th – 31st May Choice of venues and activities Open 8am - 4pm For more info and to book your place visit activecamps.co.uk or call 01562 277 810 Hagley Haybridge High School 15% OFF* with code SPRING24H Contact us today! 0121 544 4004 info@earlsgymnastics.co.uk | Rounds Green Rd, B69 2BU Gymnastics Activity Camp BOOK EARLY* Scan the QR code for more information! Earls Gymnastics, Oldbury 25th - 28th March 2nd - 5th April 28th – 31st May

Raring2go! CLUBS AND CLASSES Raring2go! CLUBS AND CLASSES 16 raring2go.co.uk 17 Amblecote Primary, School Dr, Amblecote, Stourbridge, DY8 4DQ School Ready Forest School Tuesdays @ 10:00 – 11:30 Forest School Birthday Parties available Home Ed Forest School Tuesdays @ 12:30 – 14:00 Personal Tutoring Tailored to your child's needs Easter Sessions running on 25th March, 27th March, & 2nd April For more information visit www.takealeaf.net Or contact Susie on 07890 579054 Confidence building Discipline Develops Leadership qualities Promotes Mental strength Enhances listening skills Class Times Monday: 6pm - 7.30pm, All Grades Tuesday: 4.30pm - 5.20pm, 4 - 6 yrs Wednesday: 5pm - 5.50pm, Beginners Wednesday: 6pm - 7.30pm, All Grades Thursday: 4.30pm - 7.30pm, Private Tuition Bookings Friday: 6pm - 7.30pm, All Grades Saturday: 10.30am - 11.20am, Beginners Saturday: 11.45am - 1.15pm, Fighting Class Saturday: 1.30pm - 2.30pm, Junior Competition Development Class 8th Dan Karate paulcampbell12@hotmail.com Paul Campbell Karate- Dudley YouTube: Let’s get your little one swimming! 01694 731407 wibblewobble@waterbabies.co.uk There are few things in life that are more important than teaching little ones how to swim. Not only could it save their life…it’s a great way to develop strength, flexibility and coordination, overcome struggles and fears, make new friends, and develop skills that will last them a lifetime. So what are you waiting for? Join us anytime! Classes available now. When you’re ready, we’re ready. Contact Kim: 08444128153* halesowen@musicbugs.co.uk www.musicbugs.co.uk/halesowen Recommended by Health Visitors and Early Years Speci alists! *This call will cost you 5 pence per minute plus your phone company’s access charge. Cradley Heath Kidderminster Oldbury Rowley Regis Stourbridge Halesowen Come and join us for nursery rhymes, percussion instruments, puppets, counting songs, bubbles, pom poms, parachute games and lots more. ...and surrounding areas . i Awardwinning music classes for children aged newborn to 4 years Creative Courage For Life® Stagecoach Performing Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Performing Arts Limited. Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18year-olds Helping children believe they can do anything stagecoach.co.uk/kidderminster 01562 66194 Baxter College, DY11 5PQ Stagecoach Kidderminster

Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 19 Raring2go! EDUCATION 18 raring2go.co.uk teaching through head, heart & hands for more information please contact the admissions team 01384 394633 info@elmfield.com www.elmfield.com This is just a guide. Some details may change, and some events require pre-booking. Please check with the venue before setting off. 4 - 5 May Severn Valley Railway, Spring Model Railway Weekend We may be more used to 12 inches to the foot scale here at the SVR, but why not join us for a celebration of slightly smaller trains at The Engine House, Highley. www.svr.co.uk 4 - 6 May Little Owl Farm Park, May Bank Holiday Weekend What better way to spend a bank holiday weekend than enjoying the outdoors, interacting with over 50 breeds of birds and animals, plus all of our indoor and outdoor play areas! www.littleowlfarmpark.co.uk/whats-on/ 12 May Bodenham Arboretum, Car & Bike Show See classic cars and bikes, help raise funds for Parkinson’s UK. A great family day out amidst the beautiful backdrop of Bodenham Arboretum: ’Worcestershire’s Hidden Garden’. www.bodenhamarboretum.co.uk 12 May Dudley Zoo, Wake up the Zoo An early morning guided tour to go behind the scenes and get close to a variety of exotic animals. Follow the Keepers as they go about their daily duties then spend the remainder of the day on the Zoo at your leisure. www.dudleyzoo.org.uk 25 May - 2 June West Midlands Safari Park, Character Week A fantastic line up for May half-term 2024: Bluey – 25th & 26th May Sonic the Hedgehog – 27th May Hey Duggee – 28th May Leo & Raph (TMNT) – 29th May Gruffalo – 30th May JJ from Cocomelon – 31st May Chase & Skye from Paw Patrol – 1st & 2nd June www.wmsp.co.uk 25 May - 2 June Severn Valley Railway, Brick Ocean Take a journey on the Severn Valley Railway in style and during this time, families can go under the sea and discover amazing ocean-themed brick model installations. Delve deep inside The Engine House at Highley, where you will find a selection of creations including an octopus, parrot fish, mako shark and large squid. There will be 13 installations to discover, and each one is hand-built using thousands of bricks. www.svr.co.uk 25 May - 3 June Little Owl Farm Park, May Half-Term Fun Save the date! More details coming soon!* www.littleowlfarmpark.co.uk/whats-on/ 29 - 31 May The Listening Herd Come and spend time with our beautiful herd. They love a “pamper day” and you can spend the time making them beautiful. Bathing, brushing, picking feet, plaiting manes and tails, feeding and offering herbs and oils. www.thelisteningherd.org 29 - 31 May The World Outside, Forest school sessions Wed & Fri: Mini Wilderness Explorers (under 5s). 10 - 11am. Wed & Fri: Wilderness Explorers (5 - 12 years). 12 - 2pm. Thur: Wilderness Explorers (5 - 12 years). 10 - 12 noon and 1 - 3pm. www.theworldoutside.co.uk *Be kept up to date with Raring2go! for this and many more May halfterm events. Visit our What’s On page here: See page 12 for holiday clubs. Aspire, RB and Earls all confirmed for 28 - 31 May too. Look for updates on our websites for additional holiday clubs during this time. What’s on in May

Raring2go! GO-TO GUIDE Raring2go! GO-TO GUIDE 21 20 raring2go.co.uk The Summer Olympics 2024 in Paris promises to be an unforgettable experience for families. If you are planning a visit to the grandest sporting event on the planet, anticipate a rich blend of excitement, cultural enrichment incredible sport and cherished family memories. Child-Friendly Venues: Explore Olympic venues with family-friendly zones, offering interactive exhibits and activities tailored for young sports enthusiasts. Cultural Extravaganza: Immerse children in the rich cultural tapestry of Paris through Olympic themed and inspired arts, performances and exhibits, creating a holistic experience. Educational Adventures: Take advantage of the educational opportunities the Olympics provide. These can teach children about diverse sports, global unity and the true spirit of competition. Interactive Sports Zones: Engage children with hands-on experiences at interactive sports zones, allowing them to try their hand at various Olympic disciplines. Meet the Athletes: Seek out opportunities for children to meet and interact with athletes, inspiring them to pursue their sporting dreams. Family-Friendly Accommodations: Choose accommodation with family-friendly amenities and easy access to the Olympic venues thus ensuring a stress-free stay. Culinary Delights: Explore the city's culinary scene with family friendly eateries that will introduce children to delicious French cuisine as well as to some taste bud tingling international flavours. Themed Souvenirs: Collect themed Olympic souvenirs for children, creating lasting mementos of their time at the historic event. It only happens every four years! Accessible Transportation: Opt for the most convenient and family-friendly transportation options to navigate Paris. This will help ensure easy access to Olympic venues. Safety Measures: Prioritise safety and make sure children carry clear identification. Choose designated meeting points and emergency plans for a worry-free Olympic experience. Visiting the Summer Olympics Paris with children under 12 promises a perfect blend of sporting excitement and family-centric activities. From interactive sports zones to areas of cultural immersion and educational adventures, the event provides a unique opportunity for families to create cherished memories while enjoying the Olympic spirit in the City of Lights. Make It A Family Affair: Visiting the Summer Olympics 2024 EVERY POSSIBILITY UNDER THE SUN Family holidays built around you • Over 450 amazing destinations in Europe • Beachside, countryside, lakeside or mountainside locations • Choose a Campsite, Village or Resort • Modern, detached holiday homes with everything you need • Lots on parc, from pools and spas to shops and restaurants • Free kids’ clubs at selected parcs, six days a week • Flexible holiday dates to suit you • Choose how you travel: fly, ferry, train • Just one price for everyone For the best savings on your Eurocamp holiday visit: raring2go.co.uk/eurocamp Eurocamp_24_Raring2go_210x148.indd 1 12/02/2024 14:46

Raring2go! WHAT’S ON Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 22 raring2go.co.uk 23 This is just a guide. Some details may change, and some events require pre-booking. Please check with the venue before setting off. Ongoing Wyre Forest, Gruffalo Party Trail Celebrate the Gruffalo’s 25th birthday - find the missing party items, pick a present for the Gruffalo and enjoy lots more fun trail activities! www.forestryengland.uk/wyre-forest Ongoing Spotter Otter Trail 8 otter sculptures have been colourfully decorated, inspired by a variety of themes including the zoo, wildlife, the Black Country and pop culture. They spent February half term here at DZC, and will then return to the zoo for the summer holidays. In the meantime, you can see them here: 1 ‘Ollie’ – Dudley Zoo and Castle 2 ‘Oswald’ – Dudley Library 3 ‘Rashmi’ – Red House Glass Cone 4 ‘Ray Li’ – Duncan Edwards Leisure Centre 5 ‘Flora’ – Himley Hall 6 ‘Saga Dawa’ – The Dudley Archive 7 ‘The Old Fossil’ – Dudley Canal & Tunnel Trust 8 ‘Some like it Hot(ter)’ – The Village Hotel www.dudleyzoo.org.uk/spotter-otter-trail/ June Eastnor Castle 2nd June: Family Fun Day, garden games and a zip-wire on the Valley Lawn 9th June: Animal Encounters, see and learn about a fascinating range of exotic animals! 23rd June: Midsummer Fun Day with local suppliers and games aplenty! 30th June: Duck Herding, Duck herding displays with audience participation! www.eastnorcastle.com 9 June RAF Cosford Air Show This year’s theme is ‘Take Flight.’ Kickstart your interest in a career in the RAF and develop an understanding of what the Service does for the defence of the United Kingdom. Get close to the cutting edge of technology with RAF aircraft & unique attractions across the showground and immerse yourself in a thrilling, action-packed flying display programme. www.cosfordairshow.co.uk 16 June Father’s Day Look out for idea’s on how to celebrate with Raring2go! 26 - 27 June Dudley Zoo, Under 5’s Day An early morning guided tour to go behind the scenes and get close to a variety of exotic animals. Follow the Keepers as they go about their daily duties then spend the remainder of the day on the Zoo at your leisure. www.dudleyzoo.org.uk 28 June Himley Hall, Under 5’s Day Under 5s day is run just for those toddlers and babies under 5 years old. Five hours of activities in a safe environment. www.himleyhallandpark.co.uk/whats-on 29 June Ackers Adventure, Thrillseekers Day Skiing, archery, climbing, canoeing, kayaking, zip wire and tower drop. Free tobogganing for under 12’s with a paying adult. The days run similarly to a theme park – queue for activities you would like to try (repeat some multiple times or try them all). www.ackers-adventure.co.uk 30 June Himley Hall, Armed Forces Day A day dedicated to those serving in the Armed Forces currently and veterans who have previously served. Activities for all the family. Everyone welcome. www.himleyhallandpark.co.uk/whats-on What’s on in June Wychwood, Cheltenham’s most loved family festival, is growing in size and reputation year on year. With great music programming, hilarious comedians, 100’s of workshops, and children’s entertainment, it’s a feast of activities to entertain all ages across the weekend! Returning for their 18th year of unforgettable memories for all the family, Wychwood Festival 2024 has a line-up bursting at the seams including this one for the kids - CBBC’S HACKER T DOG & KATIE THISTLETON! Visit our competition page to WIN TICKETS! KIDS 11 & UNDER GO FREE

Raring2go! PLACES2GO Raring2go! PLACES2GO 24 raring2go.co.uk 25 SVR.CO.UK | 01562 757 900 PLAN YOUR VISIT AND BOOK TICKETS AT Enjoy a fun-filled 90 minute kayak trip on the picturesque canal with friends & family this Easter, followed by woodfired pizza at The Vine Inn (optional extra). Initial instruction provided & buoyancy aids included. Please book in advance. From Easter The Vine Inn Only £12 per child & £15 per adult + online booking fee to September Weekends & School Holidays 1 Dunsley Road, Kinver DY7 6LJ www.riverseverncanoes.co.uk Under 18's require an adult on the water with them. Trips are self-guided.

Raring2go! FAMILY THEATRE Raring2go! FAMILY THEATRE 26 raring2go.co.uk 27 STOURBRIDGE TOWN HALL 01384 812812 boroughhalls.co.uk TREASURE ISLAND Sunday 21 April - 2pm ALICE IN WONDERLAND Sunday 7 April - 2pm Dinoslam Live! Brierley Hill Civic, 28 March Awful Auntie Wolverhampton Grand, 28 - 31 March Kidz Easter Party Brierley Hill Civic, 2 April The Sooty Show Swan Theatre, Worcester, 5 April Paddington in Concert Symphony Hall, Birmingham, 5 April Robin Hood Easter Panto Palace Theatre, Redditch, 6 April Kidz Bop: Never Stop Live Tour Symphony Hall, Birmingham, 6 April There’s a Monster in Your Show Birmingham Town Hall, 6 - 7 April The Sooty Show Wolverhampton Grand, 7 April Shrek the Musical Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, 9 - 14 April There’s a Monster in Your Show Swan Theatre, Worcester, 30 April - 1 May Spot’s Birthday Party Swan Theatre, Worcester, 21 - 22 May The Lion Inside Birmingham Town Hall, 25 - 26 May Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out Wolverhampton Grand, 25 - 26 May Whitsun Half Term Party Brierley Hill Civic, 28 May Pop Princesses Palace Theatre, Redditch, 30 May Charlie Cooks Favourite Book Swan Theatre, Worcester, 11 - 12 June BMOS Charlie & the Chocolate Factory Alexandra Theatre, B’ham, 11 - 15 June Horrible Histories Courtyard, Hereford, 19 - 20 June 101 Dalmations Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, 2 - 6 July z Kid BRIERLEY HILL CIVIC, BANK STREET, DY5 3DH DATES + TICKETS @ BHILLCIVIC.CO.UK / 01384 573381 TICKETS ARE LIMITED AND START AT ONLY £6 SHOWS AND PARTY ARE FULLY INTERACTIVE AND FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY THURSDAY 28TH MARCH 2024 TUESDAY 2ND APRIL 2024 TUESDAY 28TH MAY 2024 TUESDAY 20TH AUGUST 2024 TUESDAY 29TH WEDNESDAY 30TH AND THURSDAY 31ST OCTOBER DECEMBER 2024

Raring2go! RARING2READ Raring2go! RARING2READ 28 raring2go.co.uk 29 Bookseller, Deborah from Kenilworth Books shares the wonderful accessible books from publisher Barrington Stoke. Information for Grown-Ups: These books have a dyslexia-friendly layout, typeface and paper so that even more readers can enjoy them as well as enabling dyslexic parents to enjoy the books with younger children. WE ARE NOT FROGS! by Michael Morpurgo, Illustrated by Sam Usher (Age 0+) The frogs always beat the toads at long jump but the toads don’t mind – anything for a quiet life. But then the children and Mutt the dog come in search of some good jumpers, and the toads see an opportunity to get their own back! SHEEP SCHOOL (Little Gem) by Ross Montgomery illustrated by Marisa Morea (Age 5+) William the lamb is the worst pupil in Sheep School. He’s always in trouble as he loves to sing and dance and just can’t stand still. But when the Big Bad Wolf turns up, can William put his artistic skills to good use and save the day …? This book is part of the Little Gems range, fully illustrated first chapter books designed to support reading speed and stamina. SHONA, WORD DETECTIVE by John Agard Illustrated by Michael Broad (Age 7+) Shona has always loved words. She even has her very own strange word thesaurus! When she and her classmates learn that some languages are dying out, Miss Bates tasks them with becoming top-class word detectives, proving to themselves and their families that there are many Raring2go! READING Kenilworth Books, Talisman Square, Kenilworth CV8 1JB beautiful languages still thriving, even within their own classroom. Edited to a reading age of 7. THE WEATHER WELL by Vashti Hardy Illustrated by Natalie Smillie (Age 8+) It’s the height of summer in Moreland, and Grace Griffin and her fellow warden Tom Eely are sweltering in the heat until they answer a strange call for help that comes through on the amazing Griffin map. After teleporting to Oakwell, they find the town paralysed by a freezing snowstorm, which is ruining the famous summer market that brings in visitors and trade. Using their mystery-solving skills and amazing inventions, can Grace and Tom find the cause of the weird weather and restore summer from the snow? Edited to a reading age of 8. Start the adventure with The Griffin Gate, The Puffin Portal and The Raven Riddle and read the series. NORTHERN SOUL by Phil Earle (Age 11+) Marv’s fourteen and his life is simple. There’s football. And his best mate, Jimmy. Perfect. Nothing else matters until a new girl at school called Carly crashes into his life. For Marv, it’s love at first sight, his emotions flipped upside down, as he knows a girl like Carly will never notice him. He needs help – lots of it – but when it miraculously arrives in the shape of a musical idol from the past, the path to Carly’s heart proves anything but easy …First love is unforgettable, and poor Marv is about to learn this the hard way – him, and his northern soul … Check out Barrington Stoke’s website for more information www.barringtonstoke. co.uk or pop into the bookshop for recommendations. 2 Does your child struggle to read due to dyslexia or visual stress? Are they reluctant to engage with books or read for pleasure? Reading Eggs is the perfect way to teach your child to read. Designed by experienced educators, children follow structured, one-on-one lessons that teach phonics, sight words and reading skills in a fun way. In fact, 91% of parents see an improvement in just a few weeks! 20 million users & 16,000 schools worldwide Proven to boost reading & math skills in just 15 minutes/day! FREE 30-DAY TRIAL 1.1 million lessons every week ✔ Used in over 193 countries readingeggs.co.uk/spring Scan QR code for 30-Day FREE trial *This 30-day free trial offer allows you to add up to 4 children. You will be charged at the end of the trial period unless you cancel before this time. You can cancel any time by selecting the ‘Cancel Subscription’ option located on the ‘Manage My Subscription’ page in your family dashboard. Offer is valid for new UK customers only, until 31st July 2024. in 30 Days Learn to Read FREE!

Raring2go! COMPETITIONS 31 Raring2go! PLACES2GO 30 raring2go.co.uk WIN A FAMILY TICKET! 2x adult camping tickets and 2x children’s camping tickets (any age). T&Cs: non-transferable for cash prize. Travel to the festival, tents and equipment not provided. Enter @ raring2go.co.uk Closing date: 26 April WIN TICKETS! On Sunday 9 June the RAF Cosford Air Show will be bringing thousands of families, veterans and aviation enthusiasts together for a full day of action and entertainment on the ground and in the air. This year’s theme is ‘Take Flight. ’To win a family ticket (U16s free) for the RAF Cosford Air Show visit www.raring2go.co.uk Closing date: 12 May WIN A Family Gold Annual Pass Membership To celebrate West Midlands Safari Park's new look and the opening of the refreshed playground 'Explorers' Playpark'. Plus, with the opening of their new ride 'Jungle Jeeps' later this summer and the chance to see cheetahs on foot in an extension of the Park's African Walking Trail, there are four Gold Annual Passes up for grabs! Closing date: 1 June ggtgg WIN A FAMILY TICKET! Win a day out in our British Motor Museum competition. For two adults and up to three children. Enter @ raring2go.co.uk Closing date: 17 May Win an iFly experience with Bear Grylls Closing date: 8 April Enter @ raring2go.co.uk Enjoy a Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club VIP Tour and explore Molineux in the presence of a Wolves Legend. See the first team changing rooms, tunnel, and take a seat in the dugout. Follow in the footsteps of legends whilst hearing about the career and memories of a Wolves star. A must for all Wolves fans! We have two pairs of VIP Tour vouchers to give away. Closing date: 12 May WIN A FAMILY WOLVES VIP TOUR! Funded by: birminghammuseums.org.uk/thinktank • • 4k Planetarium • Outdoor Science Garden

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