We have some exciting new activities for you to get involved with at home this February, in addition to regular Do More at home our online events programme.
Redbridge Libraries
National Storytelling Week
In celebration of #NationalStorytellingWeek we would like to share with you once again, a childhood favourite `The Tiger Who Came to Tea’ by Judith Kerr. Told by Redbridge Drama Centre, watch on YouTube here.
London Libraries Consortium have curated a special reading list in celebration of National Children’s Storytelling Week. If you an existing member of Redbridge Libraries you can borrow these ebooks from our Virtual Library.
Writing Fantasy Workshop
We were thrilled to be hosting this creative writing workshop led by award-winning writer, Simon Maeder.
During this online session children learned the basics of how to begin writing their very own fantasy story, how to create and describe your main character, structure a satisfying plot, understand the difference between various `magic systems’ and so much more!
This event took place on Saturday 13 February, if you are interested in more events like this sign up to our Libraries eNewsletter.
LGBT+ History Month
February is also LGBT+ History Month, we are proud to dedicate time to celebrate and promote equality and diversity for the benefit of the Redbridge community. Here a just a few of the online events we have part of our programme, for more events or suggested reading lists see the LGBT+ History Month programme.
Story time sessions with Mama G
We’re excited to be working once again with the fabulous Mama G for inclusive Story Time sessions, each week throughout February. Redbridge Libraries will be sharing stories and songs that celebrate being who you are and loving who you want!
Week one kicks off with a Mama G classic and her absolute favourite story Twinkle Twinkle Little Roar! This fabulous story also features a familiar singalong tune with actions that have a Mama G twist so be ready to join in. This special Story Time with Mama G finishes off with the pantomime dame version of If Your Happy and You Know It.
Watch Mama G – week one now by clicking the video link below
Don’t forget to follow Redbridge Libraries on our Facebook page and YouTube channel to watch more marvellous stories from Mama G throughout February.
Redbridge Museum
Redbridge Museum are also introducing a new children’s craft activity, Brilliant Badges – a mix of craft and activism creating peaceful protest badges from home for ages 8+. This activity is also part of the LGBT+ History Month celebrations.
Arts & Crafts
As we cannot invite you to our usual arts & crafts events at our libraries, we don’t want your children to miss out, so we have provided you with some links below to get creative at home.
Chinese New Year
Celebrate Chinese New Year with lots of activities including making a Chinese New Year Dragon.
Visit the Cbeebies website.
Valentine’s Day
If you’re feeling the love this month, Hobbycraft have 15 cutest Valentine’s Crafts for Kids.
Visit the Hobbycraft website.
Fit, Fed & Read
During February Half Term, Vision Redbridge Culture & Leisure is running an online holiday breakfast club for families in receipt of free school meals.
The club is open to children aged 5-11 yrs and will help them to learn new skills, try a variety of sports, arts and crafts and fun activities via Zoom from the comfort of their own homes.
Children will also get to listen to fun stories, learn about nutrition and take part in a range of book themed activities. These clubs will help children to get active and learn about healthy eating, helping them to look after their health for the future.
The club will run from Monday 15 to Friday 19 February and places are limited. To reserve a place please complete the online registration form.
Redbridge Drama Centre & Kenneth More Theatre
It’s time to dance
Redbridge Drama Centre have created a fantastic new Choreography project create & share this half term, 15-19 February. This course is aimed at children in Year 3+.
Children will learn new skills from a professional dancer, try new moves and create their own choreography to share with others. Work alongside peers to positively support each other’s choice in playing and making dance whilst being able to freely express their own style of movement.
Sessions will take place each day from Monday 15 to Friday 19 February between 10am to 11.30am online via Zoom. The cost of the course is £30 per child. To book a place visit the Vision website.
Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs
If you haven’t seen our magical pantomime Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs be sure not miss the last opportunity to watch online. Book your ticket for just £15 and watch in the comfort of your own home, at a date and time that suits you! (Within 48 hours of the booking). If you are feeling generous you may wish add a donation to Kennenth More Theatre of up to £15.
We are also making plans for the party of the year, join us as we celebrate Snow White’s birthday on Sunday 21 February 2021 with the Snow White her fellow cast members.
Book your tickets on the Vision website.
Big Garden Bird Watch
Whilst homeschooling you can also take part in the Families’ Wild Challenge with the #BigGardenBirdWatch. Perfect activity to get the kids outside for some fun, either in the garden or the local park. Suitable for all ages. Don’t forget to record your findings, submit your results to RSPB website by 22 February.
Although the general advice is to stay home at home, our parks and open spaces are open, including all of our play areas too. Some of our other facilities have been closed for your safety. Please ensure you stick to the Social Distancing rules and read our COVID guidance for parks before visiting.
For more information on events in Redbridge, visit the Vision website.
Post author: Toni Driscoll
Do More 