The best local days out to keep the kids active
For a range of budgets
Thinking of ways to burn the seemingly endless energy of youngsters for a whole six weeks can be exhausting and tiresome after a while. That's why we here at Radio Aire have compiled a list of the best fun-filled, high-energy days out in the local area to (hopefully) save your sanity.
Trampoline Park
One of the latest crazes to hit the children's sports market, trampoline parks are popular, with several popping up around Leeds. This is a great way to allow the kids to bounce around and tire themselves out. There are even organized activities such as dodgeball available in some centres.
Swimming
It's an oldie but a goodie; taking the kids swimming is one way to make sure they burn all of their excess energy in a safe and supervised environment. Have a scout around online if you want to stay away from the traditional swim, as many sports centres have specific times where they have inflatable obstacle coursed or have incredible waterslides available for use.
Local park or green space
Another classic and 100% free - Leeds and the surrounding areas are absolutely rammed with green spaces and parks perfect for fun, energy burning days out with a picnic. Many parks have play areas so mum or dad can sit down for a bit of a rest whilst the kids are able to run riot in an enclosed area. You won't even have to travel far - you'll more than likely have a green space within a short walking distance.
Soft play centre
These are great and safe (lots of padding!) way to get kids to let loose and burn their excess energy. Colourful, challenging and fun, they're a great indoor option for a rainy day.
Yorkshire Sculpture Park
A bit of a drive, but the Yorkshire Sculpture Park is a great big open space for children and parents alike to enjoy. The sculptures provide plenty of entertainment and keeps kids engaged, whilst the walk around the park is a good physical activity. Bring lunch if the weather's been nice, or make sure you have your wellies on if it's been typically northern weather for the last few days! Best part? It's free!
Laser Quest
Laser games only last for around half an hour maximum, but they are certainly exhausting, as well as a LOT of fun, particularly for youngsters.
Yeadon Tarn
The Tarn itself is big enough that a walk around it would tire out younger children, but within the grounds there is also a BMX park and a playground, along with the chance to book in advance and take part in water sports like sailing. The park also gives great views of the planes taking off and landing at the airport, so perfect for any little aviation enthusiasts!
Family bicycle trip
A gentle bike ride as a family - we recommend the canal with its lovely flat surfaces - is a great way of exerting excess energy and getting out and about and exploring Leeds. Use it as a means to getting to an activity or as an activity itself.
Grim up Nerf
These events only happen monthly but they look like incredible fun. Are your children Nerf fans? Or do they just enjoy adventure and the chance to run around playing? Grim up Nerf was established due to the lack of Nerf events locally and is usually held within church grounds in Leeds or Bradford. If you think your youngster would be interested in a Nerf war then check out Grim up Nerf's Facebook page.
FootGolf
FootGolf is an interesting take on the traditional sports of football and golf, mashed together into one fun hybrid. The aim is for players to kick their footballs into the special larger holes in as few attempts as possible and any mini football fanatics (or grownup ones!) out there would love it. Take a look at Leeds Golf Centre's website to learn more.
Rock climbing
There are a multitude of venues across the local area which feature a rock climbing wall, which is actually a great way to tire out energetic little ones, as well as helping their focus and strength. The Leeds Wall in particular has special themed children's walls as well as holiday introduction sessions and climbing camps.