Kids are alright

Source: The List (Issue 581)
Date: 1 August 2007
Written by: Shelley O'Neill

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Shelley O’Neill reports on the best children’s entertainment on offer over the rest of the summer

The new uniforms are hanging in the wardrobe, that fortnight away seems a distant memory, but there are still two weeks to go before the kids return to school. Even if you’ve exhausted all your bright ideas, there are plenty of activities for kids of all ages to keep them occupied for the rest of the summer.

For those who are lamenting the end of Harry Potter’s adventures, why not turn to Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials series, which is just as dark and mysterious as JK Rowling’s tales. Scottish Youth Theatre perform adaptations of the first two parts of Pullman’s other-worldly trilogy in a production at the Citizens’ Theatre that will appeal to adults and children alike.

The Gallery of Modern Art’s Summer Holiday Programme and Youth Fest have plenty of options for creative types. Workshops include storytelling, sculpture and comic book art. All events are free and materials are supplied, so if the purse strings are tight and it’s wet outside, head for GoMA.

Alternatively, evoke the monsters straight from the kids’ imaginations with the Tron’s It’s Alive summer school courtesy of the Wee Giant Puppet Company and the Elephant in the Room. Kids aged 12–16 can create gruesome puppets and animations in preparation for a performance at the end of the week.

Being stuck indoors can leave both kids and grown-ups bored and suffering from an excess of energy. Relax with yoga sessions from Gather in Glasgow. The specially-tailored classes allow children aged 5–12 to participate in storytelling, games and music. Relaxation, balance and rhythm are introduced through basic postures and breath work. Kids will enjoy learning the poses through song and will build strength and concentration: just what you need to get them calm and serene before bedtime. Or is that too much to ask?

More: His Dark Materials, Days Out, Kids

Last updated: 4 Aug 2007 17:29 BST