Family First

Manchester City Council is about to celebrate the important role that parents play in the lives of their children with a whole host of free activities designed to help families flourish as part of its first ever Parent’s Week.

The week, which runs from Saturday 17th October, coincides with National Family Learning Week and also the tenth anniversary of the national Family and Parenting Institute.

The week long series of events and activities aims to show parents what support and services are available to them - from childcare sessions and playgroups, to parenting classes, school information and financial advice.

Lively presentations, parenting workshops, free t-shirts for children, entertainment including football coaching, puppet shows, cooking classes, yoga workshops and dance displays are just some of the reasons to look out for.

The events will be held all around the city in Sure Start children’s centres, schools and libraries and detailed timetables of each event can be found at www.manchester.gov.uk/parentsweek

The roadshow visits Benchill Children’s Centre on Monday 19th October.

All the events are free and the week fits into Manchester City Council’s Helping Hands campaign designed to support residents through the recession. Information on events is also available through the Family Information Service on 0800 083 7921.

Councillor Sheila Newman, Executive Member for Children’s Services at Manchester City Council, said: “Being a parent is one of the most rewarding and also one of hardest roles a person can fulfil. We want all parents in Manchester to know exactly what support is available to help them with family life and enjoying time with their children. That support can come in many different forms, and we’re keen for as many parents to come along to events during the week as possible, to have some fun and to find out for themselves what kind of help there is.”