Festive cheer is guaranteed, with a wide range of children’s and family activities running across Solihull this Christmas holiday.
23 locations, comprising 14 holiday clubs and nine trips – promises one fun-filled HAF (Holiday Activities and Food) programme this Christmas! Families eligible for benefits-related free school meals can access up to four free sessions per child over the holidays, whilst many activities and trips have paid places available at good value prices, for non-eligible families.
Solihull Council’s HAF programme will run again during the Christmas holidays, following hot on the heels of the first ever holiday programme that took place during October half term. From slime making and robotics to multi-sports, the wide variety of activities will ensure that there are sessions to suit everyone. Holiday clubs are running on 22 and 23 December, with trips and family activities available across the holidays. Bookings can be made direct with providers now.
Family activities such as swimming, badminton and table tennis can be enjoyed at North Solihull Sports Centre and Tudor Grange Leisure Centre, during both centre’s opening hours, from 20 December to 4 January. Bookings can be made directly with the parent/carer’s chosen centre. Families and teens can access ice skating sessions at Planet Ice Solihulll. A free and healthy meal, per person, is also provided for children and parents/carers at all activities.
Further activities and events are also going ahead over the Christmas period, both in the borough and across the wider region.
Councillor Karen Grinsell, Leader of Solihull Council and Lead Member for Children’s Services & Education, said: “The HAF programme provides fun, varied and funded activities along with a free meal, during key school holidays. This supports parents and carers entitled to benefits-related free school meals. This Christmas we have responded to feedback by simplifying the schedule of events, our holiday clubs taking place on 22 and 23 December only, with trips and family activities taking place over the wider holiday period. The family activities are the ideal way for children and young people to enjoy time together. Whether it’s craft activities at Evergreen Family Hub or for those with a more competitive nature, badminton and table tennis at one of our leisure centres – there are sessions that cater for all age groups. Activities are free for HAF eligible children and families, but also available at most venues if you aren’t eligible, at competitive prices.”
Alex Fuoco-Lang, Contract Manager at Everyone Active, said: “Being part of the HAF programme is so important to us, because it offers families from all backgrounds the opportunity to stay active in fun ways at a time of year when they might be feeling the pinch.”
“We’re inviting parents and their children across Solihull, to come along and join us for some brilliant sessions to boost their activity levels over the festive holiday season. Badminton and table tennis at both leisure centres in addition to swimming, with tennis also available at Tudor Grange Leisure Centre – all of these can be booked on a pay as you go basis, through reception or the app .”