FAMILIES can keep their little treasures entertained right through the holidays thanks to a scheme normally geared at grown-ups.
As part of Treasures of South Tyneside 2015 – an annual event shining a spotlight on the borough’s cultural heritage – a special programme of activities for youngsters has been planned at local museums and attractions.
On 23 July, at Arbeia Roman Fort, families can find out more about recent excavations at the eastern end of Hadrian’s Wall and bring their picnics to the Wallquest family picnic, part of the British Festival of Archaeology.
Then, on Saturday 1 and 15 August, younger visitors will be put through their paces at military-style Roman boot camps, by ‘soldiers’ Victorious Victor and Maximus the Magnificent.
On Saturday 8 August, birds of prey will demonstrate how wind helps them take flight with a series of demonstrations and families are urged to either bring their kites along or join a kite making session to create one of their own.
South Shields Museum is also taking part in the fun and, on 21 July, pint sized pirates are invited to a nautically-themed event, which is part of the wider Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums Marine Festival.
A week later, on 28 July, the museum will be adding to its popular Creature Corner with a variety of live animals, including rabbits, mice, spiders and snakes, which children can handle – if they feel brave enough.
Then, on Funday Friday, 31 July, the action goes under the sea with the chance to explore marine wildlife.
Experts from Newcastle University will be giving visitors the chance to not only find out more about starfish, lobsters, crabs, but even to handle some of the creatures.
Organised by South Tyneside Council, Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums and Bede’s World, Jarrow, Treasures of South Tyneside 2015 offers a three-month programme of events, displays, exhibitions and activities until the end of August.
All the events take place between 11am and 3pm and entry to those at Arbeia is free, with a £2 charge for the kite making class. Aaargh it be Pirates! and Funday Friday are also free to attend and the Creature Corner event costs £1 per child per 25 minute session.
For further information about the exhibitions, events and live performances, which make up the Treasures programme, visit www.visitsouthtyneside.co.uk.