you when you whistle.Stick insectsThey look scary – and weird – and that’s why children love them. A cool choice of pet for older children, and although their appearance belies it (monster from outer space) they really are harmless and low maintenance

, are certain to keep them quiet. The toy war this year is predicted by Amazon to be between Bratzilla dolls and Monster High -which one will come out on top? And is this the Barbie vs Sindy competition for the modern age? Aside from toys, there is a great

1. Have a cricket tournament  There’s nothing like learning to bowl a cricket ball to inspire a love of the game. So grab a bat and a ball (a softball rather than the traditional cricket ball) and set up a cricket pitch in your local park. For a fun

takes readers on a journey where terror builds more through the power of suggestion than any real event.Fear factor 8/10Dimanche Diller by Henrietta Branford (HarperCollins, £4.99)Wicked guardians, evil plots and a lovely young female heroine have turned

themed activities and traditional tales.Fairy Tales Read And RhymeJanuary 30Children who love a fairytale fantasy should dress up as their favourite character and come along to Eccleston Library in St Helens who will be hosting this magical story

this.What were your favourite games and toys as a child? I was obsessed with mermaids and fairies. I was such a girly girl. I didn't own a pair of jeans until I hit my teens! I loved to draw and was always making things. I wouldn't describe myself

and create watercolour portraits of your relatives, give yourself an on-canvas makeover or paint a crazy creature at The Bankside Gallery. The Royal Watercolour Society will be on hand to provide artistic inspiration.Mythological Heroes And MonstersOctober 22

with his counting and colours. I think that’s the key to sparking their interest – taking something they already love so it doesn’t feel like effort.Why do you think writing a story is important for children?It’s a wonderful way for them to express

. Highlights include the alien-inspired Out Of This World Week July 22–28, with intergalactic dressing-up and Aliens Love Underpants storytimes; a visit from Claude On Holiday author Alex T Smith on August 1; pop-up book making on August 3, 31 and monster fun

is a real pleasure, particularly if you love seafood and spices. There are Chinese, Indian and Creole influences in the cuisine and everything is fresh, including game from the hills of the island’s interior. Take a trip inland to the Domaine des Grand