Spring it on!
A new season is upon us and Kids’ People were back at The Bentall Centre for more imaginative merriment. We had an egg-stremely fun time with the spring chickens during the schools’ Easter holidays. Continuing our successful run as part of the “Thumbs up-it’s Thursday” initiative throughout Kingston-Upon-Thames, we were ready to spring into action celebrating all things vernal.
Blooming marvellous!
Nestled between the shops and eateries of the lower ground floor, sheltered by long grass and climbing plants, lay an oasis of creativity. Budding artisans were invited to sit at one of four picnic tables with all the materials they needed to participate in each week’s artistic activities.
Four larger than life woodland animals peered out from the luscious undergrowth at each corner of the glorious garden, keeping a watchful eye on the events of the day. There was nothing rough around the hedges, we had a sett that even our big, friendly badger would be proud of!
All a flutter.
Garden guests weren’t left alone to wing it, four beautiful butterflies emerged from their cocoons just in time to supervise the tasks. Dressed in vibrant vesture, they really took the creative chrysalises under their colourful wings.
Pine cones metamorphosised into cute and colourful baby owls in the first week. With a little help, busy bees glued colourful felt pieces onto the seedcase body to represent wings and faces. In the second week, friends were invited to make their own woodland animal foam bookmark using various stickers and the perennial favourite: googly eyes!
In addition to taking their creations home with them, participants were presented with an animal sticker of their choosing as a keepsake of the day.
Spring time of our lives!
Our Enchanted Garden event was another success for all participants, local and otherwise. We often see visitors return every time as well as making new friends along the way. With costs continually increasing, this kind of activity is priceless for families who want to spend time together during school holidays. Not only are they given the opportunity to undertake creative tasks together in a fun and controlled environment, it’s free for them to enjoy with the added value of being able to keep their crafts.
It’s a winner for local businesses too! Kids’ People’s events create an exciting buzz and with many visitors coming out specifically to participate, it increases the footfall for the entire area.
