How do you stop them from getting bored?
The long summer holiday will soon be here and this time of year often proves very expensive - trying to keep the kids entertained is never usually cheap.
Did you know there are more than 100 free courses and activities taking place over the summer through the council's 'Futureversity' programme?
Futureversity offers 11- 19 year olds (up to 25 for young people with additional needs) the chance to learn new skills and earn nationally recognised qualifications over the summer holidays. The courses take place between Monday 30 July and Thursday 31 August and more than 1100 young people signed up last year.
The wide range of activities on offer includes a two-week singing boot-camp, lessons in skateboarding, and a fashion workshop. For young people with additional needs there are multi-sports days and a chance to go behind the scenes of a Harry Potter movie. All of the courses are free and places are offered on a first-come-first-serve basis. And to celebrate Olympics year, there will be the chance to compete in the 'Mini Olympics' at Rectory Park on Wednesday 1 August.
Competitors can take part in silly events such as ten-pin zorbing and target football.
Councillor Patricia Walker, cabinet member for Children and Young People said: "We have now been running Futureversity for five years. During this time, thousands of local young people have taken the chance to develop their skills, try something different and make new friends. "We offer a very diverse programme and I can say, with confidence, that there is something to suit almost everyone's tastes and interests. Places get filled up very quickly, so take a look and book your space today."
To find out more or to sign up for a course or activity go to www.futureversity.org email payp@ealing.gov.uk or call 020 8825 8226.
12th July 2012