Cracking fun at Children's hubs over Easter holidays

We’re all very grateful to all those working in the Hubs for creating a fun and inspiring space that caters for a wide range of age groups and interests

Over the Easter holidays the Hubs are operating as a partnership project lead by Active Schools staff. Partners, including staff from the Outdoor Learning Service, Libraries, Education, Ranger Service, ‘Can Do’ Playscheme, learning assistants, Early Years Practitioners, Admin Staff, Connected Communities team members, Arts Service staff and others, have volunteered to be involved.

The children have access to range of activities. Fitness sessions have been emailed in from local clubs, and music, arts and crafts sessions exploring the outdoors spaces and outdoors fun are also offered. All activities ensure social distancing is maintained and hand washing is a regular part of the daily routine.

Children at the four Easter Holiday Hubs will have the opportunity to take part in Bikeability Scotland training, a programme developed and funded by Cycling Scotland to help young people develop cycling skills.  On Monday 6 April, 14 local children at the Musselburgh Hub took part in cycling activities and games including slaloms, 'cycle the tightrope' and emergency stops.  In addition to those who could already cycle, two children learnt to pedal for the first time, with one excitedly saying "I've never done that before!"  His family are now planning family cycles when then can. The children had access to a wide variety of bikes donated by Sparewheels, a local Community Interest Company, which supports sustainable transport in East Lothian. 

Some of the groups have been decorating their classroom doors with their team names. Teams can earn points for imagination, social distancing, having fun and positive behaviours such as good manners.

Mark Unwin from Active Schools said: "The kids were loving the chance to learn new skills and explore the school grounds on the bikes provided by the Bikeability programme and Sparewheels."

Cabinet member for Community Wellbeing Cllr Jim Goodfellow said: “The Hubs will be a huge relief to all of our keyworkers who rely on them so they can concentrate on their vital work knowing their children are safe and well-cared for. We’re all very grateful to all those working in the Hubs for creating a fun and inspiring space that caters for a wide range of age groups and interests. Children can enjoy learning new skills safely and within social distancing and hygiene guidelines. This is a holiday period and it’s important that the children also benefit from this with a change in their routine and activities.”