Half-term is just around the corner, but with just a little planning ahead it needn't be too traumatic a time for parents in York. Education reporter Haydn Lewis takes a look at what's on for youngsters to do in and around the city next week.

A host of half-term activities are on offer for children during the February break, thanks to City of York Council's play team.

The highlight for 2008 is the return of the It's Up to U! project, which encourages young people aged ten to 19 to get involved in community projects.

Tim Waudby, the council's community leisure officer, said: "We want young people to think about what they can do to benefit their local community in some way, and raise the profile of young people and show York what they can achieve. So get thinking about what you can do this year."

Registrations will be invited in the next issue of the council's School's Out magazine, which will also contain more details about the projects.

Experts say children need an hour of exercise every day along with a healthy diet. With this in mind many of the half-term activities are based around exercise.

One-in-four children in England is thought to be obese, which can lead to health problems in later life, so the British Heart Foundation is encouraging children to exercise during this half-term.

Dr Mike Knapton, of the charity, said it is "crucial" to encourage good exercise habits in young children, even if the benefits are not immediately obvious.

He said: "Children get less active as they get older so it's vital that youngsters get regular physical activity to lay the foundations for good health as they grow up."

To find out more about the half term activities, pick up a copy of School's Out or visit the council's website.

Here is a sample of some of the activities on offer:

Climbing
Age: seven to ten years.
Cost: £49.50 per course.
Details: This popular activity is based at this new Oaklands facility, which has two walls and a bouldering area. Children are asked to wear suitable clothing that is not baggy or restrictive, remove jewellery, ensure long hair is tied back. Early booking is advisable.
Venue: Oaklands. To book, phone the leisure centre on 01904 552424.
Date: Monday, February 11, to Friday, February 15. Time: 1:30pm to 3:30pm.

Fun and games this spring at Funfishers
Age:
three to 11.
Cost: £18 per day, £10 half day (sibling rates available).
Details: There are lots of fun activities available for youngsters this half-term. For more information, log on to www.funfishers.co.uk
Venue: Funfishers Out Of School Club, Fishergate Primary School, York. Phone 01904 677870.
Date: Monday, February 11, to Friday, February 15. Time: 8:30am to 5:30am.

St Barnabas – time to have fun
Age: five to 11 years.
Cost: £14 for full day.
Details: The group will take advantage of the weather and go on trips into or around York city centre. There will also be art sessions, team sports, puzzles, and crafts.
Venue: St Barnabas Out Of School Club, Jubilee Terrace, Leeman Road, York. To book phone 07766 191405.
Date: Monday, February 11, to Friday, February 15. Time: 8am to 6am.