The summer holidays are fast-approaching, and so, too, is the annual dilemma of what to do with the kids. But, fear not! Fantastic for Families is here to help, with a summer of activities guaranteed to please not just the kids, but the rest of the family, too.

Fantastic for Families, (which is delivered by the Family Arts Campaign; an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation) aims to widen the family-friendly arts and culture offer to as many people as possible.

Anna Dever, who manages the campaign, says: “We know that when families can attend the theatre, galleries and museums together, and participate together, it strengthens those familial bonds. Our aim is to work with organisations across the country so that family members from 8 months old to 80 years old can enjoy art, culture and entertainment together and can share a creative experience.”

This summer, Fantastic for Families is working with organisations across the Midlands on their summer theme – The Great Outdoors.

Studies show that spending time outdoors not only has several health benefits but has a significant impact on helping families to bond. Arts and culture can play a part in that.

Jack Gelsthorpe, Learning Researcher at the Natural History Museum, agrees: “At the Natural History Museum, a lot of our work focuses on connecting our visitors to the natural world. There are so many benefits associated with affording people access to nature, especially in urban areas, but one of the main benefits, for families, is the social element; by doing things together as a family, you are encouraging conversation and breaking down generational barriers, and that can only be seen as a huge positive. Nature is so important to society and, if we want people to protect it, then we need to engage them in it.”

As well as strengthening familial bonds, exploring the great outdoors has also been proven to have a positive effect on a person’s health and wellbeing. According to a report* by The Wildlife Trusts, daily contact with nature is linked to better health, reduced levels of chronic stress, reductions in obesity, and even improved concentration.

Dominic Higgins, Nature and Wellbeing Manager at The Wildlife Trusts, says:

“A core part of my role at The Wildlife Trusts is to bring people closer to nature. Contact with nature plays a huge role in both preventing and treating illness, in particular, mental health. Nature is a great leveller, and it’s accessible to everybody. There has been a huge growth in activities that are targeted towards helping people to achieve sound health and wellbeing – both at The Wildlife Trusts and through organisations, such as Fantastic for Families. There are ways in which you can live differently, make contact with nature, and feel happier and healthier in the process. The intergenerational contact, associated with getting involved in nature-focused activities, is an essential part of improving the health and wellbeing of the whole family.”

Families across the Midlands can find great arts and culture activities on their doorstep and beyond by visiting www.fantasticforfamilies.com. For instance, families can head to Canon Park in Birmingham for In The Night Garden Live. See Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy and Makka Pakka brought to life before your eyes with beautiful costumes, magical puppets, enchanting music and breathtaking projections.

At The Old Clubhouse, Buxton, families can join Little Meerkat on the hunt for her family in Little Meerkat’s Big Panic. This little tale helps everyone to see, hear, smell, taste and feel what's going on in their brains and bodies when emotions become overwhelming.

Meanwhile, don’t miss your chance to see Teletubbies Live! at the Belgrade Theatre, Coventry. Join Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po in a show full of love and laughter as they explore the magical world of Teletubbyland. Look out for the Tubby Phone, Noo-Noo and the Sun Baby in a fun, bright and safe world which captures young children’s imaginations and encourages them to explore the world around them.

Get active with Dance4 in King Edward Park, Nottingham, for Dance4 In The Park. This free event will feature performance and workshops, as well as a bouncy castle, helter skelter and soft play. Come along and have a dance!