Broadland District Council’s Winter Holiday Program Offers Fun and Inclusion for All Children
The winter holiday season brings with it a special opportunity for children in Broadland to explore new activities, make friends, and create lasting memories through the district’s comprehensive Tots2Teens program. As Councillor Natasha Harpley, Broadland District Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing, enthusiastically points out, this winter’s offerings span a diverse range of interests—from arts and crafts to outdoor adventures—ensuring there’s something to capture every child’s imagination. The carefully curated program reflects the council’s commitment to providing enriching experiences that combine fun with skill-building during the school break, giving parents peace of mind while their children engage in supervised, quality activities.
This year’s program features a festive array of options designed to delight children of all ages and interests. Creative youngsters can immerse themselves in holiday-themed crafts and biscuit-making sessions, allowing them to express their artistic talents while creating seasonal keepsakes and treats. For the more adventurous children, the partnership with Norfolk Ski Club offers an exciting introduction to snow sports—a rare opportunity in the region to experience the thrill of winter activities without traveling to the mountains. Perhaps most exciting for families is the new collaboration between the Council, ROARR! Dinosaur Adventure park, and Norwich Theatre, which provides discounted access to their magical Cinderella trail, bringing the beloved fairy tale to life through an immersive experience that combines storytelling with outdoor adventure.
The Tots2Teens initiative demonstrates Broadland District Council’s dedication to accessibility and inclusion, particularly for families facing financial challenges. As part of the Big Norfolk Holiday Fun initiative, children eligible for means-tested free school meals can participate in up to four sessions completely free of charge, removing financial barriers that might otherwise prevent their participation. This approach ensures that all children, regardless of their family’s economic circumstances, have equal access to enriching holiday activities that support their development, build confidence, and create joyful experiences during the winter break. The program represents a meaningful intervention in addressing holiday hunger and activity gaps that can disproportionately affect children from less advantaged backgrounds.
Nutrition plays a central role in the Tots2Teens program, reflecting an understanding that healthy food is essential for children’s wellbeing and ability to fully participate in activities. Every child attending a session receives not just engaging activities but also nutritious lunches and snacks throughout the day, with careful attention paid to accommodating diverse dietary requirements and preferences. This comprehensive approach ensures that children remain energized and focused during their activities while also supporting families who might struggle with food costs during school holidays. The program makes a thoughtful adaptation for participants of the Autism Explorers Stay and Play sessions, who receive food bags to take home rather than on-site meals, recognizing and respecting different sensory needs and eating preferences.
Financial accessibility extends beyond the free sessions for those on free school meals, with Broadland families receiving means-tested benefits eligible for a significant 50% discount on all activities in the program. This tiered approach to pricing ensures that families with limited resources but who don’t qualify for free school meals can still afford to provide their children with engaging holiday experiences. The council’s commitment to removing barriers to participation demonstrates recognition that quality holiday activities should not be a luxury available only to those who can afford full fees. By creating this sliding scale of costs, the program reaches a wider segment of the community, fostering greater social integration and equal opportunity for enrichment during the holiday period.
Parents and guardians interested in securing spots for their children in the Tots2Teens winter program can easily access the full schedule of activities and complete bookings through the South Norfolk and Broadland council website. The online booking system provides comprehensive information about each session, including age suitability, location, timing, and any special requirements or equipment needed. With activities designed to be fun, safe, and inclusive, the program offers peace of mind for parents seeking quality care and enrichment during the school break. As the winter holidays approach, Broadland’s Tots2Teens program stands as a shining example of how local authorities can support families and children through thoughtfully designed services that combine entertainment, education, and essential support in one accessible package.
