Punching custard is not something I find myself doing often. If, at all. However, among the activities at the Hide and Seek Weekender at the South Bank, I suddenly found myself up against a number of other individuals (mainly children), all very eager to indulge in such a challenge. With two bowls of gloopy custard hooked up to a monitor which counted each punch, a battle was then begun. It was me versus the little people.
And after about two seconds, I had already lost. You see, what I discovered was that I am really terrible at punching custard. But it wasn’t about the losing, even though I sulkily slumped away from the custard-table leaving the victors to bask in their own glory, it was about the taking part. Held in the Royal Festival Hall, the event hosted a number of different activities which included crafts, cardboard labyrinths, live performances, human ribbon chains, tag involving PS Move controllers and many, many more.
The interactive nature of the activities made them an immediate hit with children of most ages. Not only could they engage with the performances being shown, they were able to join in and be part of the theatrics. More often than not, the games were about team work. “Close Ties” involved groups having to compete using their bodies and ribbons to make the longest chain. This was one of the only games that, I noticed, was dominated by adults. Alternatively, if you wanted to delve into the mysterious world of the cardboard labyrinth, this was certainly more suited to the children as the game proved superfluous when one turned out to be taller than the maze itself.
All in all, this was truly a weekend that could be enjoyed by all the family. More specifically, for the children involved. The energy and effort that went into organising the weekend was certainly emphasised by the fun that was had by everyone on the day. Perhaps for next time, however, I might practice on my custard-punching skills, for fear of being beaten by an eight year old once again.