The Whitworth Family Programme 2024/25

We take play very seriously at the Whitworth. We know play is increasingly at risk, with children spending less and less time playing and more time on screens. 

Our Early Years & Family programme is embedded in play and takes inspiration from the Reggio Emilia Approach. so we create workshops that encourage free play. We put children at the centre so these sessions so there are ‘no rules’ and no ‘teaching’, just beautiful invitations to play, led by children rather than adults. We use the magic of loose-parts and open-ended play to encourage creativity, curiosity and imagination. Check out the programme below:

Art Baby

For non-walking babies and their grown-ups.

Where the journey begins for our very youngest visitors.

Play sessions using our specially designed multi-sensory art objects.

Friday 4 October 2024 

Friday 1 November 2024

Friday 6 December 2024

Drop-in between 10:30am-2:30pm, no need to book.

PLAY Day

For under 5s and their grown-ups.

Our gallery spaces are packed full of curious and wonderful objects to explore and create. Think tubes, pipes, crates, boxes, reels, bobbins, tyres and lots more. 

Friday 11 October 2024

Friday 8 November 2024

Friday 13 December 2024

Drop-in between 10:30am-2:30pm, no need to book.

Outdoor Art Club

For all ages and their grown-ups

Out in our Garden and park children and their grown-ups are invited to explore, play and connect with nature.

With mud painting studio, potion stations and water play.

Saturday 19 October 2024

Saturday 16 November 2024

Saturday 21 December 2024

Drop-in between 10:30am-1:30pm* No need to book (*note new earlier finish time) 

Quiet Morning

For all ages and their grown-ups.

Multi-sensory play sessions especially designed for children with additional needs and their families who may prefer a quieter, calmer environment.

Sunday 29 September 2024

Sunday 27 October 2024

Sunday 24 November 2024

Drop-in between 10:30am – 12:30pm, no need to book.

Feel Good Kids Art Club

For 7-12 year olds.

Explore calming mindfulness techniques, all while connecting with nature and creating meaningful artworks. 

Saturday 7 September 2024

Saturday 5 October 2024

Saturday 2 November (half term)

Saturday 7 December 2024

1-3pm, Limited spaces, booking required 

We hope to welcome you to the Whitworth soon. if you have any questions then contact our Producer (Early Years & Families) on Lucy.turner@manchester.ac.uk