A museum is helping parents make the summer fly by for their children.

The Royal Air Force Museum in Hendon is running a series of free themed weeks to keep children busy this holiday.

For the rest of this week, little ones will have the chance to come face to face with birds of prey including hawks, falcons and eagles on the museum’s helipad.

After each session children will have the opportunity to handle an owl and have their photograph taken with it.

From August 12 until August 18, children can listen to a professional storyteller tell tales of the animals that have been adopted as mascots by various RAF squadrons.

As well as a story, each session will also include songs and riddles that will help children explore the themes of teamwork, believing in yourself and never giving up on your goals.

Children will be able to meet the animals that helped people on the home front battle through the Second World War by providing food and transport at the end of August.

Shetland ponies, goats, chickens, rabbits and ferrets will also be parading on the museum’s helipad during Land Army Week.

A museum spokesman said: “If during August you hear the plaintive cry, ‘I’m bored!’ from one of the younger members of your family why not visit the RAF Museum London?

“They may think that they’re having fun, and they will, but here’s the real secret: they’ll also be learning and developing.”

For more information visit www.rafmuseum.org or call 020 8205 2266.