Stave off the half term whinges with these free or reasonably priced ideas on what to do in the school hols

So what to do? How can you entertain the wee ones without giong halfway round the bend or breaking the bank?

Well it is possible, honest, and you don’t have to travel a million miles either.

Happily Kirklees Council is running a number of free or very reasonably priced events for kiddiwinks of all ages, throughout all of North Kirklees.

They kick off with the wonderfully titled Recycled Into life – Chinese creatures event at Bagshaw Museum, Batley, on Tuesday (Feb 19).

Little model makers can bring old junk to life as wonderful Chinese dragons or mythical creatures, inspired by the museum’s fascinating Chinese display.

The event is suitable for ages five to 11 years and it costs £1 per child.

Also in Batley, this time on Wednesday at the library, is a free art and craft workshop for eight- to 12-year-olds.

Kids can make marvellous mini-beasts (that’s insects to you and me) using fabrics, craft materials and recycled objects.

The fun runs from 10am-1pm, but booking essential as places are limited.

Take a walk on the wild side with sessions of stories and crafts based on the book Where the Wild Things Are.

The book celebrates its 50th anniversary this year and to celebrate, kids can create a mural in their local library – and make a mask to take home.

Places need to be booked as space is limited.

Times and places are: Monday, Thornhill Lees Library, Brewery Lane, 2.30pm, ring 01924 324178; Wednesday, Dewsbury Library, Railway Street, 10.30am, ring 01924 325080; Thursday, Batley Library, Market Place, 10.30am, ring 01924 326021; and Thursday, Cleckheaton Library, Whitcliffe Road, 2.30pm, ring 01274 335170.

For something a little different, head slightly further afield to Pudsey, for some good clean amily fun... with a soap carving workshop. It takes place at the Artbug Studio in Viaduct Street and is on Tuesday (February 19) from 10am until noon, costs £12 per child.

If you don’t fancy splashing out so much cash, there’s half term play schemes at Batley Baths, Batley Sports and Tennis Centre in Howden Clough and Dewsbury Sports Centre.

There’s football, golf, rounders, swimming and more on offer, with half day and full day options for children aged four to 11 – again booking is essential, ring 01924 326181.

Batley Baths in Cambridge Street is holding a free Valentine fit and fun session on Tuesday from 1.30pm-4pm with the aim of introducing more kids to the facilities there – which include a water inflatable and an in-pool obstacle course. There’s also free water confidence taster classes from 3.30pm-4pm. You have to book – call 01924 326167.

If they’re literally driving you up the wall then don’t worry – venture to Brighouse’s Rokt climbing gym. Situated in a converted flour mill, there’s the School of Rokt half-term adventure school, plus of course you can just turn up and give it a try. They also serve fantastic coffee – and if mums and dads are feeling brave, check out the climbing wall. If I’ve done it, you can too! Ring 01484 717444.