Over the last few weeks, we've shared our summer offer for Manchester SEND families. You can see all the activities in Summer Special #1 and Summer Special #2, as well as other stuff to do around the city. 

We have some of the ‘Happy, Active, Healthy SEND Summer Family Packs’ that were recently distributed by Manchester Parent Carer Forum (MPCF) in partnership with 4CT Limited. They’re like the paper bag sensory and activity kits that many families loved last summer and at Christmas but with an Explore Manchester and health and nutrition twist! Parents or carers of SEND children and young people within Manchester may apply, with those who receive free school meals to be given priority. Get your pack by calling 0161 219 2125, Mon-Fri 10am-4pm. 

In this doorstep project, Sow the City is sharing free Food Growing and Foraging Activity Packs to help your family engage and connect with nature. Inside you’ll find everything you need to grow tasty and colourful Rainbow Chard at home and an info sheet on how to forage aound the city. For Manchester SEND families only - to book your pack, call 0161 219 2125, Mon-Fri 10am-4pm.

Manchester SEND families can try out outdoor water activities at Debdale Outdoor Centre in Gorton this summer. This includes kayaking, raft building and sailing, with food and snacks provided. You’ll need to wear clothes and trainers that you don’t mind getting wet and to bring a full set of spare clothes, footwear and a towel. The minimum age to be on the water is 7 years. Under 7s can watch but will need an adult with them. The sessions are Fridays 4.30-7.30pm on the 13th, 20th, 27th August and 3rd September. Booking essential – call 0161 219 2125, Mon-Fri 10am-4pm.

Manchester SEND families can have fun on Heaton Park lake every Monday morning in August. Sessions are every half hour from 10am-12 noon with a choice of swans (four-seater pedalos) and rowing boats (seats four). Booking essential – call 0161 219 2125, Mon-Fri 10am-4pm.

Don’t forget, you can find out what’s happening in the city's parks, galleries, museums, libraries, and youth and play services in Loads To Do. It’s your one-stop shop to connect to what’s going on in the city centre and near you this summer.

There's also the 'Stuff To Do' section in our Coronavirus Information & Advice page. This specially selected list for SEND families includes arts and crafts, music-making, gaming, storytelling, dance, walks - and more! 

You’re invited to a weekend of fabulous free entertainment on the streets and in the squares of Manchester City Centre on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th August, 1-6pm. There’ll be street theatre, music, dancing and colour popping up all around the city centre to add to the fun. Manchester City Council are working in partnership with outdoor arts experts Walk the Plank to deliver this exciting summer event. It’s the Manchester way of paying a joyful tribute to all who have helped us get through the past year and a half. Find out more here. #ThankYouManchester

A new project gives the city’s 11-25 year olds a chance to create a record of life during lockdown. ‘On This Day Last Year’ is aimed at children and young people with additional needs, care leavers, children in care, young carers and home educated young people. Everyone taking part will receive a free art pack and meet in small groups (online for now) for 1 or 2 sessions. The workshops will give young people the opportunity to voice their feelings about their experience during lockdown, then express these through a creative piece of their choice (eg artwork, poetry, creative writing or photography) to create a display in Central Library. To book on or find out more, email  siobhan.o'connor@manchester.gov.uk

Join 'Everyone Can' at their Technology & Gaming centre in Sale for their popular gaming sessions for disabled children. They have various games and control methods to ensure everyone can game, matching technology to your children’s needs. Find out more and book here.