Enterprising siblings solved puzzles and cracked codes while tackling three popular escape rooms, in Cambridge.
The trip was organised by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) for children who are either bereaved or have a brother or sister receiving care at Milton.
The new ‘Sibz PLUS’ session was specifically for those aged between 11 and 15.
Nine ‘teens’ took part and, between them, worked together to escape the Armageddon, Egyptian Tomb and Secret Agent rooms at Lockhouse Escape Games.
“It was thoroughly entertaining, and everyone enjoyed themselves,” said Ceri Dobson, EACH’s Groups and Events Coordinator at Milton.
“There were secret doors and walls and moving bookcases. It was high-pressure and quite intense at times, with a ticking bomb about to explode if we didn’t escape in time!
“Everyone loved the challenge, and I saw some great teamwork.
“It was great fun, and this is definitely something we’d like to repeat in the future.”
In addition to regular sibling days, for children of all ages, Ceri believes it is important to offer something for older brothers and sisters. Earlier this year, ten teens enjoyed an evening of tenpin bowling at Nines Global Buffet, on Cambridge Leisure Park.
“Something like this gives them their own space and is more appealing, because they’re all on the same level,” she said.
“They’ve got more in common, and it was lovely to see them interact and form friendships.
“It was great fun, and, from our point of view, it’s important to do things for older siblings.”
Meanwhile, five youngsters between the ages of five and 12 enjoyed a day of board games and fun competition at Milton.
They played favourites including Connect 4, Uno, Twister and Pictionary, which proved especially popular. The children drew pictures from one of four categories – food, animals, household objects and modes of transport.
The children also had fun playing with a Shulbach, which is a type of shuffleboard manufactured in the Netherlands.
“The day flew by, and everyone had a really great time,” said Ceri.
Lockhouse Escape Games picture: Dik Ng/EACH
