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20 November 2025

We’ve got a packed agenda this December with our usual groups and special Christmas parties at Peterborough Family Hubs. Plus, discover other activities you can do with your children at home.

Elf on the shelf

Did you pick up an Elf from our stand at the Christmas lights switch on? Or are you looking for ideas of what to do with your elf this year?

We’ve created a guide with 24 days of activities with your elf that also have an educational element.

Elf on the shelf with some foil shoes
Elf on the Shelf booklet4.96MBpdf
Size: 4.96MBFile format: pdf

Activities at our Family Hubs in December

You can view and book the events below on the Barnardos bookwhen website.

Stay and Play Christmas Parties 

Please note, the Christmas parties require booking in advance and carry a small charge per family of between 50p and £1. 

  • Thursday 11 December 2025, 10am, First Steps Family Hub
  • Monday 15 December 2025, 10am, Orton Family Hub
  • Wednesday 17 December 2025, 10am, Honeyhill Family Hub
  • Friday 19 December 2025, 10am, East Family Hub

Tiny Teeth 

  • Monday 1 December 2025, 11:15am, East Family Hub
  • Tuesday 2 December 2025, 1pm, Orton Family Hub
  • Tuesday 9 December 2025, 1pm, First Steps Family Hub
  • Thursday 18 December 2025, 11.15am, Honeyhill Family Hub

Babbling Babies 

  • Monday 15 December 2025, 10am, East Family Hub
  • Monday 15 December 2025, 1:30pm, Christmas Party, First Steps Family Hub
  • Thursday 18 December 2025, 10am, Orton Family Hub
  • Thursday 18 December 2025, 10am, Christmas Party, Honeyhill Family Hub

Sensory Learners (0-5s with complex needs) 

  • Thursday 4 December 2025, 1pm, Fulbridge Family Hub
  • Thursday 11 December 2025, 1pm, Fulbridge Family Hub
  • Thursday 18 December 2025, 1pm, Fulbridge Family Hub

Dads group

Saturday 20 December 2025, 11am, Sat-A-Dads, Honeyhill Family Hub.

Other activities

Tuesday 16 December 2025, 1pm, Introducing Family Foods, First Steps Family Hub.

50 Things To Do Before You’re Five

The 50 Things Before You’re Five app has plenty of ideas to help you make the most of the holidays with some fun, educational activities – here’s a selection:

  • Make natural bird feeders

    Go out with your little one to find some pinecones. When you get home, cover them in nut butter. Roll them in birdseed and hang outside to give the birds a winter treat.

  • Create a treasure hunt

    You could create a checklist of objects your little one needs to find. This could be inside or outside – go for a walk and look for sticks and leaves or hide objects around your home.

  • Build a den

    It’s time to get cosy! Use blankets, pillows, and cushions to create a comfortable den. It’s the perfect place to snuggle up and read stories together.

  • Bake holiday treats

    Festive baking is a fantastic way to create memories together. It doesn’t have to be a showstopper – a simple recipe for biscuits or a packet mix will do. Children love mixing ingredients, even if it gets a bit messy.

  • Explore festive lights and decorations

    Go on a late afternoon walk to spot the festive lights and decorations outside people’s houses. This is great for babies and toddlers.

Child holding a pine cone

For more activity inspiration, download the 50 Things Before You’re Five app

Last updated: 20 November 2025