Discover NI has produced a list of activities which are both fun and educational to keep kids busy during the lockdown:

Science at Home, Armagh Observatory & Planetarium: A series of fun, astonishing and safe science experiments has been launched by Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, along with quizzes and fascinating blogs. From science in sci-fi movies to revealing what a vampire star is, they have it covered. You can do experiments in your home and check the science behind it all. Like Armagh Observatory & Planetarium on Facebook to follow the series or visit https://youtube.com/user/ArmaghPlanetarium

Seamus Heaney HomePlace: Over the coming weeks the centre will be posting literacy-based activities that kids can enjoy from the comfort of home. Children can immerse in the words of our literary giant and get creative. The latest activity is inspired by Heaney’s poem, ‘Blackberry Picking’, encouraging children to select a plant, research it and create a fact file. To follow the educational activities, visit www.seamusheaneyhomeplace.com

#StayathomeStorytime: Artist, illustrator and writer, Oliver Jeffers is reading one of his brilliant books every weekday, as well as talking about the steps that went into making it. Oliver says: “We are all at home but none of us are alone.” Visit www.oliverjeffers.com to watch the series of videos or visit his Instagram page (@oliverjeffers) each night at 6pm to watch the live version.

Core NI Family Workout: Every day at 11am the staff at Core NI are hosting a live family workout. With the schools closed it’s more important than ever to promote routine and movement in our daily lives. Core NI has devised a series of workout suitable for both children and adults. Like Core NI on Facebook to join in the daily exercise routines.

Wee Buns Cookery School: Nestled in the Co Tyrone countryside, Wee Buns usually welcomes guest for hands-on cooking classes. However, during the lockdown, owner Mary Anne Mackle, who trained with Jamie Oliver at the world-famous River Café, is posting a series of healthy and immune boosting recipes which are perfect for getting the whole family into the kitchen. Like Wee Buns Cookery School on Facebook.

Interactive Sport with Actisport Kids: Usually entertaining kids at sports camps, tournaments of even birthday parties, the coaches at Actisport in County Down are posting regular fun videos to get kids active at home. With a green screen incorporated, hundreds of children have travelled the world from their own home, going on exciting adventures whilst enjoying a little exercise and education along the way. Check out Actisport Kids on YouTube for many adventures and activities.