Easter fun for Sunderland youngsters

A fun-filled programme that will help to keep youngsters inspired and entertained during the Easter holidays is taking place at libraries in Sunderland.

The family friendly activities will take place from 7 to 18 April at the Creative Smart City Hubs at Houghton and Washington libraries, as well as City Library at Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens. 

The majority of events are free to attend and there are a range of sessions for young people of all ages.

The city's Creative Smart City Hubs provide a space to allow young people to develop their creative and digital skills, with a range of activities from storytelling to 3D design.

Peter McIntyre, Executive Director of Economy and Place at Sunderland City Council, said: "I'm delighted we're able to deliver this bumper programme of activities that families across our city can enjoy. I hope it will provide the chance for families and young people to get together, doing something fun and learning along the way."

At all three venues, little imaginations can bloom with nature themed Easter Crafts for those over four.

For those under this age, the regular weekly Rhyme and Shine sessions will continue during the holidays with an Easter theme, creating opportunities for little ones to sing, dance and play musical instruments, with a shared story time at the end.

Hubs at Houghton and Washington will each screen family film The Peanuts Movie, which tells the tale of Charlie Brown and his dog Snoopy in a hilarious and heartfelt underdog story, based on the classic Charles M. Schulz comic strip.

Both sites will run Saturday Stories sessions, which are aimed at three to eight year olds but open to all, and include a cosy, read-aloud story, followed by an activity or craft inspired by the tale.

And Danielle Slade will be running Yoga Storytelling at both venues, with different slots for different ages, covering those aged three to 11.

The Houghton hub is hosting Story Explorers with Ashleigh Lowes, a fun-filled session of music and storytelling for under fives and their grown-ups, booking is required for each child attending.

City Library will be hosting Teen Manga Makers with the Art Room Sunderland, giving young people the chance to create their own Manga merch.

At Washington, there will also be the return of the popular Maker Space workshops. The first, on Thursday 9, will allow participants to create a unique tote bag or cap using heat transfer vinyl. On Monday 13, attendees can get creative by making a mug that is uniquely theirs. And there will be two workshops on Thursday 16, the first offering participants the opportunity to craft their own custom necklace pendant and the second teaching the basics of 3D modelling by designing a fidget spinner that will be printed on a 3D printer. All Maker Space workshops have a small ticket price and can be booked via the Culture House website.

More information on all these events can be found at www.culturehousesunderland.co.uk/events