Half term family fun at the University Museums
Wednesday, 16 February 2011
Animal origami - have a go on Tuesday 22 February
'We're always looking for new crafts to offer to our visitors to give them a taste of something different each time they come!'
February half term is the perfect time for a family trip to one of the University of Reading's Museums. Families can discover a world of Greek and Egyptian treasures at the Ure Museum on the Whiteknights campus or a surprising rural haven at the Museum of English Rural Life (MERL) on Redlands Road.
At MERL there's the garden to let off steam in and there's plenty of indoor fun for families with children of all ages. From trails, games, brass rubbing and dressing up to drawing and animal puppets, there's something for everyone at any time. Families can now make a day of their visit as refreshments and lunches are available at the new University café, Eat and Drink, right next door - or picnic in the shelter of our marquee in the garden. Admission is free.
During the school holidays the Museums offer fun family activities, too:
‘Minibeast habitats'
Wednesday 23 - return of Oonagh and the BCTV volunteers with another of their hugely popular workshops. They'll be helping families make 'Minibeast habitats' for garden creepy crawlies.
Animal Origami drop-in session
Tuesday 22 - for families with children aged 7+.
'Crazy caterpillar'
Thursday 24 - ‘make and take' for younger members of the family.
Pottery workshop
Friday 25 - an opportunity to learn how to throw your own pot on a wheel! This workshop is suitable for families with children aged 4+. It costs £2 and you can pay a bit extra to have your pot fired and glazed ready for collection from MERL in a few weeks.
Ure Museum workshop
Tuesday 22 (2-4pm) for families. A chance to handle real Greek objects and learn about different styles and designs.
Egyptian pyramids
Thursday 24 - join Museum staff to learn all about Egyptian pyramids and even make their own to take home. Booking is required for this event, which runs from 2 to 4pm.
The events at the Ure cost £3 per child and are suitable for families with children aged 6 and over.
Bekky Moran, Learning Manager at the University Museums said: "We've got some fantastic activities lined up for this half term. From the chance to get their hands on real Ancient Greek pots at the Ure to making their own pots at MERL, families have the opportunity to try out all sorts of hands on activities.
"We're always looking for new crafts to offer to our visitors to give them a taste of something different each time they come! Children will love making pyramids at the Ure or getting their hands on the clay at MERL - and parents are welcome to have a go too!"
To book and for details of all the workshops and activities visit www.reading.ac.uk/merl or www.reading.ac.uk/ure