WORRYING what to do with the kids this half term? Need help with your family’s wellbeing? Join the teams from adult community learning provider, ACL Essex, and Essex Library Services at Great Parndon Library, on 29 October between 10am-12pm. Simply drop-in and learn new methods to support your child’s learning, fun ways for children to develop their language and communication skills as well as access to free online learning resources.

Councillor Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Community, Equality, Partnerships and Performance says: “The Family Learning Fairs are a great opportunity for families to come together and discover more about what is on offer at our Libraries and Adult Community Learning Centres. A number of fun activities and free resources are available, enabling residents to take part in local learning in our communities. Do make the most of this and come along and find out more!”

Introducing children to books and other resources – including story and rhyme times – at an early age can have a big impact on their development. Essex Libraries offers books to support parents and carers dealing with all aspects associated with bringing up children.

Organising the event at ACL Essex is Melissa Williamson, Curriculum Lead, Community and Family Learning. She says: “We have a wide range of community and family learning programmes to help residents, we’re keen to reach out into our communities and show what we offer. The fair promises to be a fun and engaging day for children, but also gives parents or guardians the chance to discuss any problems with our team. Family Learning offers a wide range of support from how to cope with a fussy eater to managing anxiety as well as an introduction to phonics; we’re here to help.”

Youngsters will be treated to a morning of fun where they can create their very own box jam-packed with fresh ideas to keep boredom at bay, as well as autumnal arts and crafts activities. Older children can take part in a scavenger hunt and reveal the hidden secrets by discovering answers in a series of books placed around the library.

For younger children the fair will also include a story and rhyme time at 10am. Please call 0345 603 7628 to book a space on the Story and Rhyme time as places are limited.

For more information and the full list of events and locations, please visit aclessex.com/family-learning-fairs/.

To discover more about ACL Essex and its community and family learning programmes, please visit aclessex.com/community-family-learning/.