From adventure playgrounds and street parties to swimming pools, seaside trips, holiday schemes and after-school clubs, these nostalgic photographs capture how children across the region spent their free time between the 1960s and 1980s.
Before screens and smartphones filled our days, entertainment often meant climbing frames, rope swings, community centres, local parks and making your own fun with friends. Whether it was a trip to Blackpool, a summer afternoon at the pool, a creative activity at a youth club or simply exploring the playground, these were the moments that shaped childhood memories.
These atmospheric pictures from our archives are sure to transport you back - perhaps reminding you of the games you played, the places you visited, or even the childhood adventures your own parents remember.
Take a trip down memory lane, enjoy browsing the gallery, and share your favourite memories in the comments. What do you remember most about growing up in the 1960s, 70s and 80s?
Remember Wolverhampton market days? Take a nostalgic trip through our gallery here.
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29. Collingwood Junior School, Bushbury, 1985
A step back in time at school in 1982, as pupils immerse themselves in the history and traditions of the Black Country. After learning about life over the previous century - including a visit to the Black Country Living Museum - the children welcomed parents to a special open day. Simon Bradley is pictured in costume, polishing the shoes of visiting parent Ralph Villau. Do you remember school projects that brought history to life, when dressing up and getting involved made lessons unforgettable? | Express & Star archive
30. First Quarry Bank Scouts, 1987
A welcome boost for 1st Quarry Bank Scouts in 1987, as Sainsbury’s in Amblecote helps the troop buy a new tent and camping equipment through its Good Neighbour Scheme. David Holliday is pictured presenting a cheque to Alexander Hickman, with fellow scouts proudly gathered behind. With a “Dyb, dyb, dyb” spirit of adventure, the new gear meant more opportunities for camping trips and outdoor memories. Do you remember Scout or youth group days, when a tent, a campfire and good friends were all part of the adventure? | Express & Star archive
31. Shelfield Community School, 1987
Arts Attack Week at Shelfield Community School in 1987 gave youngsters the chance to explore everything from video-making and puppetry to photography, calligraphy and graffiti. Pictured are Leslie Nolan, Chris Day, Matthew Anderson and Kenneth Gentles with Andy Bradley. Do you remember half-term activity weeks like this, when trying something new could spark a lifelong hobby or simply make for an unforgettable holiday? | Express & Star archive
32. Elmfield Rudolf Steiner School, Stourbridge, 1989
Pupils from Elmfield Rudolf Steiner School in Stourbridge proudly unveil a playhouse they built for the children's ward at Kidderminster General Hospital in 1989. Pictured are Mandy Jones with John Taylor and Melvin Bourne. Do you remember school projects that brought the community together and showed that even small acts of kindness could make a big difference? | Express & Star archive