Our guest reviewer Charlotte and her Mini Mumbler recently went along to Tiny Tetley; a creative and messy play for 0-5year olds. Find out what they thought here…
I’m always on the look out to try new things with Mini Mumbler, especially art-based, as she is starting to follow in my creative footsteps. I had heard good things about Tiny Tetley for Under 5’s; a creative and imaginative play workshop and decided to see what exactly it had to offer.
Set in the stunning art deco surroundings of the former Tetley Brewery, which is now a pioneering centre for contemporary art, the Tiny Tetley workshops draw inspiration from The Tetley’s exhibition programme and all things creative, including sensory activities, different materials and large-scale drawing.
The inspiration this month was camping and the great outdoors. From the moment the doors to the South Bank room opened, we were captivated. Set up in different stations, there was lots to explore; from making fire sticks, to den building, rope paths to twig rubbings, light and shadows to mirror reflections, and a giant chalkboard floor.
We started at the fire sticks, which I personally had a fab time making; there were lots of sticks to choose from and an array of ribbons/wool/material to twist and tie around the stick, creating a fun and safe fire-stick. We then quickly moved onto the floating tents, where Emily explored the light and shadows created from torches shone inside and outside the hanging domes. She was further mesmerised by the enormous shadows created on the wall using a projector, light filters and different objects; the feather was HUGE!
There was a softer play area with cushions and silk scarves, with some draped over string, creating a more traditional tent shape. And the big cardboard boxes and poles created the ultimate building and dismantling site for the hardcore constructors. The large chalkboard PVC flooring was also a popular addition as Emily loved drawing all over it and then wiping it off just as quickly.
We were left to our own devices for approx. 40 minutes, giving the children (and adults) plenty of time to explore the different areas and go back to their favourites. During which, the artist who was leading the session encouraged different ways to interact with the areas and materials.
We then gathered around the ‘camp fire’ where we sang a few songs and did a few actions to get all the children engaged. We were then given some riddles to guess; all in keeping with the camping/outdoor theme; followed by dancing to woodland-themed music and running under cloth tunnels.
Emily was well and truly spent by the end and surprisingly ready for an early nap. Otherwise, I would have liked to have visited The Tetley Bar & Kitchen to sample some culinary delights where 100% of the proceeds go back into directly supporting their artistic programme.
Tiny Tetley For Under 5’s is a great way to explore different concepts and awaken the senses to different ways of playing with seemingly everyday materials. If you’re creative-minded, long to be more creative, or simply want to try something a little different, these workshops are a great way to gain inspiration and feed the little one’s imaginations.
Tiny Tetley workshops take place on the fourth Wednesday of each month, and sessions last an hour. They currently have two sessions on the day; 10:30am and 11:45am; and are especially good for ages 1-4.
Sessions are very popular and numbers are limited so booking is essential to secure your place. Prices are £3 per child. Booking is non-refundable. However, if you are unable to make it on the day, they will happily transfer your booking on to another session.
To get in touch, contact the Tetley on 0113 320 2323 or email info@thetetley.org or for more information visit their Website or Facebook page.
For details of the next session on the 22nd January CLICK HERE.
*Mumbler was not paid for this review and paid to attend the session. All of the comments in this review are our open and honest opinion. Details correct at time of publishing; March 2019.
