Free summer fun for children
Kidz Card lets youngsters play without denting parents’ pockets
SUMMER holidays mean sun and fun – but also a constant struggle to dream up exciting, entertaining things to do that don’t cost the earth. Thankfully, the Glasgow Kidz Card can help.
This fantastic piece of plastic offers children between the ages of five and 11 access to countless cool activities and offers – and saves parents money into the bargain.
Whether you are a sports fan or a culture vulture, Glasgow has something for you to enjoy and the Kidz Card is the perfect way to get involved.
Activities include free swimming in all Glasgow Life pools (look out for special inflatable sessions throughout the year) and free activities at the Cranhill Beacon play centre, which is packed full of fun and games and arts and crafts, and boasts outdoor and soft play areas.
Discounts are on offer at a wide range of restaurants and shops, from Italian favourite Di Maggio’s to toy store Hamleys.
Cardholders can take advantage of free book and DVDhire at all Glasgow Libraries, so if it’s raining, you can curl up on the sofa with a good book or catch up with the latest music and film releases.
The Kidz Card also allows you to join in some of the activities of Glasgow Life’s Holiday Programme without breaking the bank. Many are discounted or even free, so find out what is on offer and sign up to beat the crowds.
Movie fans can use the Kidz Card to attend Take 2 screenings at Glasgow Film Theatre – it’s free for cardholders and an accompanying adult. Some of the hit films coming up as part of the popular Saturday morning sessions include Walking with Dinosaurs 3D, Percy Jackson Sea of Monsters, and The King of Masks.
Most youngsters would rather run a mile than go shopping during the holidays but Glasgow Museum shops are different. Where else can you pick up a hoodie featuring the Commonwealth Games mascot, Clyde, an Andy Murray mug, or even a Salvador Dali-inspired melting clock?
Even better, the Kidz Card allows you to take advantage of discounts in some of Glasgow Museums’ shops, meaning you can pick up an unusual gift – or treat yourself – and save money.
The card also offers cut-price entry to the Bankof Scotland Great Scottish Junior Run on Saturday, October 4.
The race is part of a weekend-long series of events including a toddler dash, family races, a 10k and a halfmarathon, and is a wonderful way of inspiring youngsters to get active.
To be eligible for a Glasgow Kidz Card your child must be between five and 11 and living or attending school within the Glasgow boundary.
Pick up an application form from your local Glasgow library or find out more at www.youngglasgow.org.uk