Beyond Books: Suggestions for days out
Many people find sharing picture books with a child a good way of opening a conversation. Thank you to everybody who gave books suggestions. This website has covered a huge range of difficult life experiences that can affect children.
However, most of us know that recovering from difficulties isn’t a straight line. Some days will be better than others. It is also possible to have happy times in the middle of a storm. They might even make the whole storm easier to live through. That is why The Picture Book Project is developing to suggest easy outings. An outing is nothing you won’t have thought of yourself, but sometimes a recommendation can open a door.
Animal Outings
Maybe you are supporting a child who loves animals. You are in the right city! London has a surprising number of animals you can visit. A location in Surrey is also included. This short article can be used as a starting point to finding animal-themed days out.
Vauxhall City Farm
Vauxhall City Farm, 65 Tyers Street, London SE11 5HS
What makes it stand out?
This city farm is well known for its trio of lovely alpacas. If you want to buy some animal feed at the farm, I am sure they would appreciate it but this is not essential. Rolo, Toffee and Cookie would love to meet you, though alpacas are not always extrovert, confident animals. The farm also has regular events.
What animals can you see?
Birds, chickens, ferrets, goats, pigs, rabbits, guineapigs and sheep! Bonnie and Clyde are Kune Kune pigs and Jess is the farm cat.
Does it have a café for tired Mum’s/ carers and treats for children?
Yes, it certainly does.
Public transport links
Vauxhall rail station and many local bus routes.
Cost
Free entry (donate £4 if you can)
Miller’s Ark
Manor Farm, Blackstocks Lane, Hook, RG27 9PH
What makes it stand out?
Being in Hampshire, it is spacious compared to London city farms and has more animals.
What animals can you see?
Goats, Kune Kune pigs, miniature Mediterranean donkeys, geese, ducks, hens and turkeys. There are also horses, including Daisy the shire horse, cats and dogs. The farm can host birthday parties and has Farmer for a day events.
Does it have a café for tired Mum’s/ carers and treats for children?
Yes, it has a homely tea barn.
Public transport links
It is difficult to reach by public transport.
From Basingstoke by car, drive nearly 4 miles East along the A30.
Cost: Adults and over 16s- £15. Children 2 and over -£14. Sessions are 1.5 hours. Pre booking required and visits are on set ‘visit’ days.
If you and the child you are looking after love animals, spend a day together. Take a break and support worthwhile organisations at the same time.
