Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
Meet The Pawfessionals in the Essex Winter Reading Challenge
Embark on an exciting journey with The Pawfessionals as they explore the amazing careers waiting for them across the fantastic and diverse county of Essex
Participants are invited to complete six fun challenges from a choice of twelve and collect stickers of each of The Pawfessionals to add to their challenge sheet. They can mix and match Blue Book Challenges and Red Craft Challenges, giving everyone the freedom to choose the activities that suit them best.
Visitors can also hunt for The Pawfessionals in their local library to discover a secret word, collecting the letters on each character’s uniform to reveal a mystery message. At the end of the Winter Reading Challenge, every participant will earn a certificate and will have the opportunity to enter the Big Prize Draw for a chance to win amazing goodies, including Kindles, themed play sets, animal toys, and book tokens.
Adults can join in too with the online Bingo Challenge. They can choose from sixteen inspiring reading prompts to get Bingo and be in with a chance of winning their own incredible prizes.
To sign up for this free activity, participants simply need to visit their local library libraries.essex.gov.uk and collect a challenge sheet. Winter Reading Challenge 2026 is made possible through the Essex Year of Opportunity www.essexyearofopportunity.co.uk.