ABC Sussex winter 2014 by ABC-Digital

The local information magazine for parents in Sussex

• From babies to big kids •

Winter issue November 2014 - March 2015 www.abcmag.co.uk

Packed full of essential information • places to go • things to do • ideas for you •

WiN WiN WiN competitions WiN WiN WiN prizes galore WiN WiN WiN

The local information magazine for Sussex parents with young children - from babies to big kids!

Editor Rachel Boyle Assistant Editor Hilary Maguire Editorial Assistant Jane Norris Advertising Sales Anna Plant Social Media Manager Karen Bryant Website BarkWeb Ltd ABC Magazine Sussex is operated under franchise and independently owned by Alphabet Publishing Ltd PO Box 2780 Brighton BN1 5QR Tel/fax: 01273 542257 sussex@abcmag.co.uk Separate county editions of ABC Magazine are produced in: Sussex, Surrey, Kent and Hampshire. For further details please see www.abcmag.co.uk or email: sussex@abcmag.co.uk surrey@abcmag.co.uk kent@abcmag.co.uk hampshire@abcmag.co.uk No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may be reproduced, in part or in whole, without the express permission of the editor. Whilst the greatest of care is taken to ensure that the information within the magazine is correct at time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions. The opinions expressed within ABC Magazine are not necessarily the views of the publishers, but those of individual writers.

As always we’ve got some great articles for you to enjoy whether you want to know about learning sign language (page 15), the importance of teaching empathy to our children (page 61), understanding dyslexia (page 64), the joys of skiing as a family (page 94) or the facts on fathers and postnatal depression (page 141). Or do you wonder about stress and the effects on your skin (page 133) or maybe you should consider retraining as a teacher (page 149) or becoming a foster carer (page 152) - if you want to know look in ABC! We're really lucky here in Sussex with so many activity classes for our children, whether it be swimming, dance, drama, martial arts or music - check out our activity classes starting on page 5 or our swimming classes starting on page 109 for further details and to get booked in. Remember, ABC is a magazine for parents by parents, so we are always delighted to hear from you with ideas for articles on what you want to know about, places you want to be able to pick up a copy of ABC or anything you want to let other local parents know about. Last but by no means least, we’ve got some great competition prizes for you to win, and to make it simpler and more cost-effective for you, all competitions are now to be entered online, at www.abcmag.co.uk/competitions. Do remember to ‘friend’ us on Facebook or ‘tweet’ us on Twitter to catch up between issues and don’t forget ABC Magazine is now also available online as a fully interactive, digital magazine. Just remains for me to wish you all a wonderful Christmas and a happy and healthy 2015!

H H

H H Cover Star H H

Rachel Boyle Editor Your child could be our next Cover Star! See page 98 for details

H H

THE ABC SUSSEX TEAM

With the long lazy days of summer behind us, Christmas around the corner and the end of the year fast approaching it's time to wrap up Please call warm, snuggle down and read all about parenting in Sussex with (01273 ) 5 42257 ABC Magazine! As ever, we’ve got a bumper issue, with loads regard ing adv of ideas on places to go, things to do and plenty of useful local ertisin or dist g ributio information too - all designed to make life as a family in Sussex n of ABC M easier and hopefully a little more fun! Take a look at our 'diary agazin e of events' starting on page 80 and our 'days out for free' on page Sussex . 82 for some fabulous ideas for fun family days out over the festive period and beyond.

01273 542257

sussex@abcmag.co.uk www.abcmag.co.uk

Hello and welcome to the winter 2014 issue of ABC Magazine Sussex.

Meet our handsome 'Cover Star' Tom (9) from Hove

H H H

Photograph by Helen F Photography 07931 596822 www.helenfphotography.co.uk (see ad on page 97)

ABC is a combination of many peoples efforts and contributions so a huge thank you to you all. Big thanks also to my husband Iain, my boys Joe and Charlie and my mum, for their patience, understanding and help, yet again, in putting another issue together.

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Inside this issue... Help yourself and a charity

Activities For children of all ages, structured activities form an important part of their learning and social development.

aving your Will written professionally can give you great peace of mind. This November, you can use a local solicitor who has signed up to Will Aid and you can enjoy the added feel-good factor of supporting nine leading UK charities.

Romero Britto cartoon painting

Developmental classes

Fitness strategies

Music education

Babies were born to love music

Instead of paying your solicitor’s fee, you will be invited to make a donation to charity. All the money raised by Will Aid is then divided between the nine Will Aid charities which include the NSPCC, British Red Cross and Age UK.

Education

Take time to sign

Whether you have a baby, toddler or a ‘big school’ child, there’s something to interest you and add to your child’s learning potential.

Tales of mystery and imagination

Dance like nobody's watching

Put your daughter on the stage?

Music lives to be let out!

Discover gymnastics

Find local solicitors that are participating in Will Aid month by going to www.willaid.org.uk

11 25

Raising a bilingual child

109

Swim away the winter blues

Silencing the mother tongue

113

The benefits of swimming

The benefits of learning Chinese

115

Parent and baby aqua fit

Embracing mobile technology

117

Learning is a journey

Evaluating apps

118

Fitting in fitness

The Communication Tree

120

Keeping sport fun

Forest School - the Early Years

From boardroom to playroom

Moving on from pre-school

Safe surfing

Intervention for additional needs

Ready to write?

Mud kitchens

Lifestyle

Helping your toddler to learn

Winter activities

Learning about independence

With ideas for helping families to get the most out of life, there are interesting articles for everyone.

Empathy, our greatest teacher?

Talking about iGeneration

Understanding dyslexia

Christmas - the important things

What is worth learning?

Skiing as a family

A safe private tutor

Family skiing in Canada

An independent education?

Making memories

Choosing a new school

Marvellous mosaics

Empowering our young women

101

Parties - get the pros in or DIY?

The importance of sport

103

Party fun!

New computing module

105

Sneaky tricks

107

Winter birthdays

108

Do you see yourself in your children

127

Child-free mini break

138

Why use washable nappies?

146

All the time in the world...

Have fun, donate and fundraise for Children in Need on 14th November!

...what Sussex parents really read! 2

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Health & well-being

Out & about

Your health, and the health of your children, is of vital importance. Take good care of the family with the advice and help of our experts.

For ideas about things to do and discover and places to go across Sussex, look no further...

Night terrors?

121

Social inclusion

123

Get fitter without a sitter

124

Too much, too soon?

126

Take care of yourself

Back to work

128

Counselling for children

130

The benefits of massage

131

Do stretch mark creams work?

133

Stress and its effect on skin

Returning to work after having a baby or when the children start school can be a tricky time - get inspiration here.

135

Immune boosting foods

149

Retrain as a teacher

137

The unspoken challenges...

151

Social media for your business

139

Your health questions answered

152

Ever thought of foster caring?

140

A baby's foot

141

Do fathers get PND?

143

Herbal medicine

145

What is hypnotherapy?

Diary of events

Days out for free

Play in the great outdoors

Panto time - oh yes it is!

Winter in Worthing

Numbers that count

on the WEB @

www.abcmag.co.uk

Homes & gardens How to get the very best from your house and garden, with helpful advice and ideas for your home. 155

fully interactive digital magazine online...

Make your home allergy-free

Check it out!

If you need to know a number in a hurry - hospitals, helplines, libraries, pools, museums and other useful contact numbers, we've got it covered! 1

Leisure directory of what's where

156

Page-by-page directory

160

Helplines and useful numbers

✷ ✷ ✷ ✷ ✷ ✷ ✷ ✷ ✷ ✷✷ ✷ ✷ ✷ ✷ ✷ ✷ ✷ ✷ ✷ ✷ Win fab prizes with Something for everyone! Once again, ABC has brought you a whole heap of competitions, with masses of fabulous prizes for you to win...

Stabilo goodie bag

ABC Cover Star

134

Purepotions Skin Salvation

136

Mittens and neck warmer

142

The New Dad's Survival Guide

The Paint & The Pencil Books

146

Everyday Kitchen for Kids book

Walker Books bundle

154

Tickets to Surrey's Home Show

Laura Ashley throw

155

Dettol home hamper

Book and board game

Disney Eiffel Tower puzzle

Good luck!

ABC competition rules: The act of entering any competition will be taken as acceptance of these rules. The closing date for all competitions running in this issue is Friday 13th February 2015 unless stated otherwise on the competition. Only email entries will be accepted for all ABC competitions. Please visit www.abcmag.co.uk/competition to enter. Only one entry per person per competition is permitted. Unless otherwise stated the winner(s) will be randomly selected. Incomplete entries will not be accepted. No cash alternative to any prize is offered. All winners will be notified by email and their prize will be sent to them. The editor's decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Unless stated otherwise on the competition, each entry should be clearly marked with the competition name, together with your name, postal address, email address and telephone number. If you enter any competition in ABC Magazine, your details may be passed on to the competition supplier. If you do not wish your details to be used further please state this clearly on each entry.

All ABC competitions are to be entered online please go to www.abcmag.co.uk/competitions ABC Magazine - Sussex

Leisure directory CINEMAS

BRIGHTON Duke of Yorks Cineworld Brighton Marina The Odeon BURGESS HILL Orion BOGNOR Picturedrome CHICHESTER Cinema at New Park CRAWLEY Cineworld Hawth EASTBOURNE The Curzon HAILSHAM The Pavilion HASTINGS The Odeon HAYWARDS HEATH Clair Hall HORSHAM The Capitol LITTLEHAMPTON The Windmill UCKFIELD The Picture House WORTHING The Dome The Ritz & Connaught

0871 902 5728 0871 200 2000 0871 224 4007 01444 243300 01243 823138 01243 786650 0871 200 2000 01293 553636 01323 731441 01323 841414 0871 224 4007 01444 455440 01403 750220 01903 715920 01825 764909 01903 823112 01903 206206

THEATRES

BRIGHTON The Dome Theatre Royal Komedia New Venture BEXHILL De La Warr Pavilion BURGESS HILL Martlets Hall CHICHESTER Festival Theatre CRAWLEY The Hawth EASTBOURNE Congress & Winter Gardens Hippodrome Devonshire Park EAST GRINSTEAD Chequer Mead Arts Centre HASTINGS White Rock The Stables HAYWARDS HEATH Clair Hall HORSHAM The Capitol HOVE Old Market LITTLEHAMPTON The Windmill WORTHING The Connaught Pavilion The Assembly Hall Northbrook Theatre

01273 709709 0844 8717 650 01273 647100 01273 808353 01424 229111 01444 242888 01243 781312 01293 553636 01323 412000 01323 412000 01323 412000 01342 302000 01424 462288 01424 423221 01444 455440 01403 750220 01273 201800 01903 722224 01903 206206 01903 206206 01903 206206 01903 273333

SPORTS & LEISURE BATTLE Battle Sports Centre BEXHILL Freedom Leisure Centre BOGNOR REGIS Inspire Leisure Centre Arena Sports Centre BRIGHTON Withdean Stanley Deason Moulsecoomb Sussex Uni: Sports Centre Falmer Sports Complex Deans Leisure BURGESS HILL The Triangle

01424 774772 01424 731171 01243 826612 01243 870000 01273 542100 01273 694281 01273 622266 01273 678228 01273 877125 01273 391683 01444 876000

ABC Magazine - Sussex

CHICHESTER Westgate Leisure Centre CRAWLEY K2 Leisure Centre EASTBOURNE Cavendish Sports Centre Hampden Park Sovereign Centre EAST GRINSTEAD Kings Leisure Centre HASTINGS Summerfields HAYWARDS HEATH The Dolphin Haywards Heath HENFIELD Henfield Leisure Centre Horsham The Pavilions in the Park Broadbridge Heath Leisure HOVE King Alfred LANCING Lancing Manor LEWES Lewes Leisure Centre LITTLEHAMPTON Inspire Leisure Centre PEACEHAVEN Peacehaven Leisure Centre PORTSLADE Portslade Sports Centre RYE Freedom Leisure Centre SEAFORD Downs Leisure Centre SOUTHWICK Impulse Leisure Centre STEYNING Leisure Centre STORRINGTON Chanctonbury Leisure Centre WORTHING Leisure Centre Davison Splash Point

01243 785651 01293 585300 01323 647683 01323 509859 01323 738822 01342 328616 01424 457691 01444 457337 01273 494984 01403 219200 01403 211311 01273 290290 01903 524624 01273 486000 01903 725451 01273 588858 01273 411100 01797 224747 01323 490011 01273 238111 01903 879666 01903 746070 01903 502237 01903 204668 01903 231797

SWIMMING POOLS BEXHILL Freedom Leisure Pool BOGNOR REGIS Inspire Leisure Centre Arena Sports Centre BRIGHTON St Lukes Prince Regent BURGESS HILL The Triangle CHICHESTER Westgate Leisure Centre CRAWLEY K2 Leisure Centre EASTBOURNE Sovereign Centre Motcombe Pool EAST GRINSTEAD King Leisure Centre HASTINGS Summerfields HAYWARDS HEATH The Dolphin Haywards Heath Horsham The Pavilions in the Park HOVE King Alfred LEWES Lewes Leisure Centre Pells Pool (outdoor)

01424 731508 01243 826612 01243 870000 01273 602385 01273 685692 01444 876000 01243 785651 01293 585300 01323 738822 01323 410748 01342 328616 01424 457691 01444 457337 01403 219200 01273 290290 01273 486000 01273 472334

LITTLEHAMPTON Inspire Leisure Centre NEWHAVEN Seahaven Swim and Fitness RYE Freedom Leisure Centre SEAFORD Seaford Head Pool SHOREHAM Wadurs STEYNING Leisure Centre WORTHING Splash Point Henry House

01903 725451 01273 512498 01797 224747 01323 897632 01273 238000 01903 879666 01903 231797 01903 232875

MAIN LIBRARIES East Sussex Brighton Burgess Hill Chichester Crawley Haywards Heath Henfield Horsham Hove Lancing Littlehampton Rottingdean Shoreham Worthing

MUSEUMS

0345 608 0196 01273 290800 01444 255452 01243 777351 01293 651751 01444 255444 01273 493587 01403 224353 01273 290700 01903 839056 01903 716450 01273 296918 01273 467966 01903 704809

AMBERLEY Amberley Working Museum 01798 831370 BEXHILL Museum of Costume 01424 787950 BRIGHTON & HOVE Brighton Museum 03000 290900 Booth Museum 03000 290900 Fishing Museum 01273 723064 Hove Museum 03000 290900 Preston Manor 03000 290900 Royal Pavilion 03000 290900 Toy and Model Museum 01273 749494 CHICHESTER District Museum 01243 775888 Fishbourne Roman Palace 01243 785859 Weald and Downland 01243 811348 CRAWLEY Crawley Museum 01293 539088 EASTBOURNE Heritage Centre 01323 411189 Museum of Shops 01323 737143 HAILSHAM Michelham Priory 01323 844224 HENFIELD Museum 01273 492507 Horsham Museum 01403 254959 LEWES Lewes Castle & Barbican House 01273 486290 Anne of Cleves House 01273 474610 LITTLEHAMPTON Littlehampton Museum 01903 738100 PETWORTH Petworth Cottage Museum 01798 342100 SEAFORD Museum of Local History 01323 898222 SHOREHAM Marlipins Museum 01273 462994 UPPER DICKER Michelham Priory 01323 844224 WEST HOATHLY The Priest House 01342 810479 WORTHING Museum & Art Gallery 01903 221448

We've created this listing to make your life easier when looking for local services. If you can think of one which should be included, or spot one that has changed, please contact us on (01273) 542257

www.abcmag.co.uk

Cartoon painting in the style of Romero Britto

by Sebastian Dewing Director of Artroom Brighton

“Art is too important not to share.”

- Romero Britto

omero Britto is a Brazillian artist who uses vibrant colours and bold patterns to convey a visual language of hope and happiness. He combines the various different elements of Cubism, Pop Art and Graffiti in his wonderfully positive and colourful paintings. Britto’s art reflects his optimistic outlook on life and its easy to see why his art has such a broad, universal appeal! He was born in Brazil in 1963 and, as one of eight brothers and sisters, his childhood was a modest one. Britto was selftaught at an early age and his natural, innate creative ability allowed him to fill his world with images of a bigger and more beautiful life, beyond that of his own. As a child, he would improvise with found materials, painting on any surface he could get his hands on - newspapers, cardboard or old scraps of paper - anything to satisfy his overwhelming desire to make art. With this inordinate passion to excel, he prospered academically at school but his inherent, consuming artistic nature eventually led him to seek experiences beyond the classroom. Like so many before him, Britto travelled to Paris and at the age of twenty, he was introduced to the works of greats like Braque, Matisse and Picasso. Here, he set about exhibiting his work in some private galleries and shows, but he still had his sights set on greater things. Britto was encouraged to travel to Miami in the United States where he set up a studio that was open to the public. Britto’s big break came in 1988, when he was selected, along with Andy Warhol and Keith

Haring, for Absolut Vodka’s 'Absolut Art' campaign. The New York Times described his design as "exuding warmth, optimism and love". His work has been exhibited in galleries and museums in over 100 countries and in 2010, he served as an official artist for the 2010 World Cup.

Designing the characters The first thing you need to think about is your design. If you look at Britto’s paintings online, you will notice that all of the faces are the same shape - whether they are animal or human. They are a bit like (continued over the page)

There can be no denying that Britto’s art brings a smile to your face - and that's never a bad thing! Our winter ‘make it’ this issue is all about colour, pattern and creating a bold and beautiful Britto style painting. Okay - here’s what you need to get started.

Materials required • Large sheet of white paper • Piece of white A4 card • Ruler • Pencil • Scissors • Paints (preferably acrylics) • Paint brush • Black marker pen

- what Sussex parents really read... it’s got everything in it! ABC Magazine - Sussex

✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷ Win fab prizes with The Paint Book and The Pencil Book - loads of things you can make or do with paint and a pencil Following on from the hugely successful Stick Book, The Paint Book and The Pencil Book are bursting with inventive and imaginative ideas and things to do for children. These books provide a starting point for an active imagination, bringing together drawing, painting, adventures, craft, games and play. With plenty of bright photographs throughout, the books offer hints and tips and contain everything you will need to discover the joy of art with paints or pencils. Each book is packed full of projects and creative inspiration.

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an upside down, stretched pentagon! On a piece of scrap paper, have a little practise drawing the face shapes and then think about the features eyes are closed and mouths are smiling! Work out your two, main characters - an animal and a person.

Published by Frances Lincoln, each book is priced at £9.99 and is available from all good bookshops. We’ve teamed up with Frances Lincoln to offer 5 lucky ABC readers the chance to each win a set of these two books. For your chance of winning, simply tell us what these books are a starting point for? Normal ABC competition rules apply and can be found on page 3.

Cutting out the head templates Once you have had a practise, you will need to create a head template with a ruler on a separate piece of card. This will act as your guide for both the animal and human heads. Cut out the template and then draw around it twice on the main piece of paper - one for the animal and one for the human. Make sure they are spread out.

Going over the outlines with marker pen Carefully go over everything with a marker pen and rub out any remaining pencil lines. Painting all of the shapes Now for the colour! Your aim is to achieve the most colourful picture possible, so the more variation in paint, the better! It's going to look much more effective if you don’t have two pieces painted the same colour, next to one another - so keep checking what piece you are painting! You can leave a few pieces white if you want to part of the face, for example. Keep on going until the painting is full. The more you do, the better it’s going to look.

Make snow paint

It's fun to play outside in the snow, and it’s also fun to recreate the snow on pictures using magical puffy paint! To make this snowy picture you will need blue paper, shaving foam, a bowl, some glue and paints. • Use paints and a paintbrush to paint a wintery scene onto your blue paper.You might like to paint a moose, a wintery tree or a little house (or all three!). • In a bowl, mix together equal parts of shaving foam and glue. Stir the mixture well to create some fluffy snow paint. • Dip a paintbrush into your snow paint, then use it to blob snow onto your painting.You can add it to the ground, on top of a tree or on the roof of a house.Your snow paint will dry keeping its 3D shapes, making your picture look really wintery and snowy. Project taken from The Paint Book by Miri Flower, published by Frances Lincoln

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Drawing design in pencil Now is the fun part! Add the details to your animal and human and then set to work with creating patterns and simple designs in pencil. You can add anything - providing it is bold and simple. You might even want to go for a Christmas theme. Anything that can be painted in is possible - lollipops, hearts, flowers, eyes, trees, shapes, stripes, stars, dots, swirls... the list is endless!

Completed painting And there you have it - your wonderfully bold and brilliant Britto style painting. Smiles and colour all round. BAC Artroom Brighton is an art school for children and young people who have a passion for art and feel that creativity might play an important role in their future. We run after-school, Saturday and holiday art classes for children aged 6 - 16 years old We believe that EVERY child is capable of exceeding their own artistic expectations. www.artroombrighton.co.uk

...what Sussex parents really read!

The benefits of taking your baby or toddler to

developmental classes

ler Wright, founder and class leader from The Baby and Toddler Experience, with over twenty years of experience in baby and child development, shares the benefits of developmental classes for young children and answers some common questions.

it be singing, signing, getting What are developmental messy, interacting with others, classes? balancing on beams or engaging Developmental classes are with you - the list is endless. classes designed to encourage A class you enjoy will become your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s learning and a time you will treasure development through a with your child, variety of activities and you will and resources. ...a time you find you enjoy Some classes will treasure with them as much stimulate as your little your child and you particular one! Favourite areas of will find you enjoy songs, development them as much resources such as physical as your little or activities and others one! quickly become promote a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s apparent, and the all-round learning and more frequently they development. experience them, the more your child will learn from What should I expect? The scope is huge and each class them. Brain development is fascinating, and the brains of is different in its own way. As a babies and young people have rule, expect lots of fun activities that engage your child, whether (continued over the page)

Need to tell parents in Sussex about your business? Talk to us - we can help! (01273) 542257 ABC Magazine - Sussex

Getting physical through play

f the weather is terrible and you really can’t face another day at home, or braving the wind and the cold, take your little ones to an indoor play centre to burn off some energy. The best play centres today are spacious, full of good play equipment so that children can run, jump and climb for hours and serve decent tea and coffee! Most will have a separate area for smaller children to keep them safe, so you don’t have to worry about them getting accidentally knocked over by boisterous, older children. Play centres are so much more than a few plastic tunnels and rideon cars. Children will happily spend a good two or three hours on all the equipment which can sometimes even include go-karts and climbing walls! Parents can often relax a little, have a coffee and perhaps use the Wi-Fi or read the paper. You can then go home for a well-earned rest or have a snack in the café. Children really do get ‘exercise in disguise’ at a play centre as they are running, jumping, stretching and climbing whilst having fun. It’s a great way for them to exercise in the winter, without even realising they are doing so. Have fun!

Classes throughout Sussex

Our classes aim to improve children's listening and motor skills using martial arts based exercise. Students advance by working with others and following directions from their instructors in a fun & motivating way!

www.scrivenlittleninjas.co.uk

ABC Magazine - Sussex

(continued from previous page) milestones sooner if they have an amazing way of storing been attending developmental information and learning classes regularly. through new experiences. In fact, their brains are more My child, is on the move receptive than at any other and won't sit still, how do time in their lives. They learn they benefit? a lot through repetition. For Even if they are rolling/crawling example, just because they don’t or running around, babies and like maracas during one class, young children will still benefit or maybe even two - by the greatly from a developmental third time you could well find class. They will be taking it all your baby enjoys the experience in even if you think they are as they remember it from not. They can hear songs, before. The brain is a see/interact with wonderful thing others as well as - the neural explore resources ...introduction pathways and their to routine, connect during surroundings experiencing new each new without the songs/resources and need to be still. experience activities all create and as the Demonstrating new pathways in experience is they are able to repeated (such as the brain. leave your side a ‘goodbye’ wave, is an important for example), the developmental pathway becomes stronger milestone in itself, and it can and more established and will take some children a long time eventually result in your little to do this.. one copying the action. Which is the right class Is my baby too young? for me? Many classes are from birth, The world is your oyster! Many and a lot of parents worry companies offer free or reduced that babies are too young price trials before the need to to benefit from the classes. commit, so check out classes in Young babies do sleep a lot, your local area and see which but early attendance benefits you like best. Personally, I babies in so many ways. The think an all-round class that early introduction to routine, fosters all areas of learning and experiencing new songs/ development is hard to beat. BAC resources and activities all create The Baby and Toddler Experience new pathways in the brain. run classes in Seaford, Lewes The earlier these pathways are and Newhaven. Please visit formed, the sooner they will www.thebabyandtoddlerexperience.co.uk become established. Many for more information. parents comment that their baby meets their developmental

Martial arts

f you’re looking for an activity class for your child that can help develop their self-confidence, self-control and also self-esteem, then consider enrolling them in a martial arts class. Martial arts are not all about fighting - they are great for children to help develop balance, strength and co-ordination. Children will also learn how to interact well in groups as well as learning to respect others and obtaining a good level of fitness and all round exercise.

Children’s indoor and outdoor fitness strategies

o matter what the season, it’s important to ensure children get up and moving so they stay on track with their physical fitness! Here are some tips, with many that offer the opportunity for some good oldfashioned family time. Exercising need not be reserved for the outdoors as there is plenty children can do inside the house to get fit! • Walk or run up and down a staircase multiple times (skip a step for added intensity). • Skip - yes, indoors too! Just ensure that the child has enough clearance from that cherished vase!

• Dance! Let the children ‘boogie’ away those calories. • Calisthenics (push-ups, situps, jumping jacks, for example) are great exercise and you can hold a friendly competition! • Hula hoop; again, clearance is key here! • Crunches! Sure, let the children watch television but (continued over the page)

www.tumbletots.com Hove to Seaford please call Sarah 07727 137511 Worthing to Haywards Heath please call Julie 07799 148286

New Tumble Tots class for young children with additional physical needs

This class is for children with physical special needs up to the age of four years old and will be held at The Boys Club, Ivy Arch Road, Worthing every Monday, 11.30 - 12.15pm. We will be using all the carefully designed Tumble Tots equipment and our twenty five years of experience working with children and their parents. Each class will be forty five minutes and will incorporate massage, rhymes and songs, with the main focus being on increasing your child’s physical skills, their confidence and your confidence in their abilities. Come and meet us, join in the fun and see for yourself with a free trial class available when you mention ABC Magazine! For more information and to reserve a place, contact Julie 07799 148286 / 01273 723511 www.facebook.com/TumbleTotsWestSussex ABC Magazine - Sussex

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challenge them to do as many sit-ups as they can while the adverts are on. Do this for at least one full television programme, which usually includes at least three or four commercial breaks. • Shadow boxing is a great way to work the arm, leg and core muscles while also getting the heart pumping. Children will have fun showing you how they can ‘float like a butterfly and sting like a bee.’ • Yoga (yes, for little ones, too!) is great for developing body coordination and balance. • Stretching helps with flexibility, which is another sign of a healthy body. Prefer the great outdoors? Not a problem! Outdoor fitness ideas abound, including: • Take a walk, jog, or hike. Raining? Walk round the shopping centre several times! • Ride a bike, skateboard, or scooter. • Roller skate or in-line skate. • Arrange a game of football, basketball, cricket, rounders

or tennis to get your heart conditioned and practicing teampumping and muscles working. building skills. • Swim! Forget doggie paddles; • Take some lessons. Find an instead, do laps up and down after-school club or community the pool or, for the ambitious centre that offers lessons or types, try butterfly stroke! activities that are physical • Skipping is an old standby that fitness-oriented. This may offers an array of health benefits. include tennis, dance, kick • Take casual activity to the next boxing, golf, swimming and level and add excitement. Seek self-defence. These lessons will out community events, such help your child become more as a sponsored walk, run or well-rounded in many areas cycle ride that accepts children. of fitness and may help them However, competition should find one that they enjoy and not be the focus. Instead, the where they might want to take focus should be on doing one’s advanced lessons. best. These events are often • Enjoy an ‘extreme’ family in support of a good cause, so holiday. Get your children children can also learn the value involved in planning a dynamic of fundraising and giving family holiday that to those that are in includes physical need. Let children activities for pick a cause that everyone. Each Skipping is is important family member an old standby to them and should be make sure able to plan that offers an the activity a physical array of health matches activity their physical whether it is benefits. abilities. Families taking a walking can even spend a tour of a city, playing couple of weekends prior volleyball, kayaking, to the event ‘in training’, getting white water rafting, snorkeling,

skiing or snow boarding. • Together, your family can take the months prior to the trip to build up the endurance, strength, and skills necessary to enjoy your active plans. The ‘holiday’ can even be a simple day trip in your own neighbourhood or something much more extravagant. Children can save pocket money for ‘cool’ fitness clothes or earn money to be used toward the purchase of special equipment by achieving physical fitnessoriented goals (like getting a certain belt in Karate or completing a successful term with their swimming club). This will not only teach children about preparation, organisation, and planning, but it will also motivate and reward them for engaging in activities that are good for their health. BAC Merilee Kern, is the creator of ‘Kids Making Healthy Choices’ APP for children, parents/caregivers and educators (available on iTunes), which is based on her children’s book, ‘Making Healthy Choices - A Story to Inspire Fit, Weight-Wise Kids.’ For more information visit www.KidsMakingHealthyChoices.com

Classes at Wickers Gymnastics Club in Lancing Wickers Gym Club’s bespoke gymnastics centre is the only permanent facility in the Adur District. From GLOWORMS TO BUTTERFLIES sessions, Wickers is the perfect place for your children to let off a little steam whilst also strengthening their muscles and improving flexibility. Gymnastics is a fun way to keep fit and healthy, why not come down and give it a go?

Wickers

Gymnastics Club

All classes are for both boys and girls and are led by British Gymnastics qualified coaches. Wickers Gym Club is fully insured through British Gymnastics, and is a GymMark accredited club. Your first session is a taster session for just £2, with further sessions costing from £3.70 for a fully coached and supervised gymnastics session.

www.wickers.btck.co.uk

Under 5s activities for girls and boys GLOWORMS - sessions for competent walkers and their parents/carers

Wickers has a permanent gymnastics facility in Lancing

Mondays

10.15am - 11.00am

Tuesdays

10.15am - 11.00am & 11.15am - 12 noon

Wednesdays

9.30am - 10.15am, 10.15am - 11.00am & 11.15am - 12 noon

Fridays

9.30am - 10.15am & 10.15am - 11.00am

BUTTERFLIES - independent sessions for 3 - 4 year olds Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays 1.00pm - 1.45pm & 2.00pm - 2.45pm Mondays & Fridays

11.15am - 12 noon, 1.00pm - 1.45pm & 2.00pm - 2.45pm

JUNIOR GYMNASTICS - sessions for aged 3 years upwards

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Mondays (gymnastics)

3.45pm - 4.45pm & 4.45pm - 5.45pm

Tuesdays (gymnastics)

4.00pm - 5.00pm & 5.00pm - 6.00pm

Thursdays (gymnastics)

4.00pm - 5.00pm & 5.00pm - 6.30pm

Fridays (gymnastics)

4.00pm - 5.00pm & 5.00pm - 6.00pm

Saturdays (gymnastics)

9.00am - 10.00am & 10.15am - 11.15am

For Gloworm sessions there is no need to book, you can just turn up to a suitable session. For Butterflies sessions please call or email to book your place. First session is a £2 taster session for all classes! We also run after-school sessions for children aged 3 years and over. You can also book birthday parties for children at the club! Call 01273 465554 or visit www.wickers.btck.co.uk

Music lives... to be let out!

ext month, we’ll be holding another weekend of ‘Children’s Christmas Concerts’. I know from experience that although most of our performers will arrive on stage looking very small - they will leave having made a very big impression. Some will shuffle to the front nervous of the crowd whilst others will virtually trip over their own feet desperate to show off their skills. Some will dress as though they’re expecting to be knighted, others might literally try to skateboard up the aisle. In every case they will have, by the end of the afternoon, either played for the first time in public or played something that a year ago was way beyond their capability. So everyone achieves something big. The teachers will be there, encouraging their pupils, settling nerves. The parents will be there, holding their cameras aloft, clapping and cheering after their child’s performance. It is in the weeks before a concert that every music teacher notices a marked acceleration in a pupil’s progress. It’s no wonder, they are playing their instrument more than they are playing on the ipad! Parents tend to become more involved, encouraging extra practice before or after school. The practice charts suddenly re-appear, covered in stickers awarded for all the hard work. When the teacher arrives for the lesson, they are bombarded with details of the levels of practice down to the last second, "I did twelve and a half minutes before my bath Susanna! I did my scales and I don’t even need them for the concert!" You may understandably think an upcoming performance would be a time for a child to feel under pressure and nervous, but if the teacher applies generous amounts of encouragement, praise and structure in equal proportions, it is the very time everyone is enjoying their music the most.

Music concerts offer so much variety too. Siblings, friends and family often play duets or in small ensembles and many of the teachers arrive at the front with their instruments too... something which is often the key to encouraging the very small ones onto the stage for their first public recital. It’s much harder to go it alone so these collaborations are greatly encouraged. Nothing works better as an incentive when it comes to learning a musical instrument, than the chance to perform together... and on that note, I should probably slip in a little news of my own: another baby is due to arrive next month, fifteen months after the first! It’s only since writing this article that my mind has started to race with regard to sibling duets for my own children in the future (a little premature perhaps?). Aha, if only they knew... Hooray for the little ones playing their tunes! ABC Magazine - Sussex

Engaging your early years child in music

education

by Mike Hayhurst www.musicwithmike.co.uk

’m sure there are many of you reading this that wish you could play a musical instrument and for those of you that do play, many may wish you had started at an earlier age. As I’m sure the majority of grown ups have found the older we get the more difficult it becomes to pick up a new skill. With this in mind then surely the earlier that we start our little ones learning a musical instrument the better... right? Well, whilst learning an instrument can be extremely beneficial for many of the areas of early years development we also need to ensure we don’t put our young children off music altogether. By introducing your little ones to music in a fun, creative and relaxed way you will be able to begin their music learning, develop their rhythm and tonality and, most importantly, have lots and lots of fun! Many people who ask me about introducing music to their little ones are put off due to their own music skills and knowledge (or lack of!) and their shortage of music instruments, neither of which should stop you enjoying some fun music time with your little ones. Here are some creative and easy ideas to introduce musical skills to early years children without any prior experience or the need for any musical instruments. • Some of the first musical experiences we have as a child are listening to and singing nursery rhymes. The simplicity of the songs and potential for movement and actions make them a great way to engage your little ones. In addition to just singing the songs, why not introduce some extra musical elements along the way. A particular favourite of mine is ‘The Wheels on the Bus’, as it has great potential for improvisation and adaptation. • Let's begin with the ‘wheels’. Why not try speeding up and slowing down your singing and actions, helping to develop a sense of tempo.

• The ‘horn’ on the bus can be a loud sound and the ‘bell’ can be a quiet sound. Try singing each verse, one after the other, to begin to develop an understanding of dynamics and volume. • To begin developing rhythm why not add some rhythmic jumping to ‘the children on the bus’ trying to jump in time with the singing and then develop this by jumping to some counted rhythms, for example, 1...2...1-2-3. • Another great song to try is 'Row, Row, Row your Boat', which has lots of opportunity for loud, quiet, fast and slow parts. • The lack of musical instruments in your house shouldn’t stop you from creating music; great household items to use are classic pots and pans which, along with some wooden spoon drum sticks, make great DIY percussion instruments. • By playing along to their favourite song using a variety of different pans your child will begin thinking about rhythm. You will be surprised how

quickly children can pick up a beat and start to play in time. • Exploring the different sounds that each pan can make is a great way to introduce timbre. Experiment with different sized pans and different drum sticks to create a vast array of different sounds that you can then talk about with your little ones. This will begin to get them thinking about which sounds they like the best (probably the loudest!) • The key to this activity working is to play alongside your child and give them the opportunity to mimic your actions and follow your lead when playing in time with the beat of a song. • Story time music is a particular favourite of mine and can be done using a book from your child’s collection or a made-up story. I use small African drums, Shakers and Claves when doing this activity. However, a quick Internet search for ‘DIY children’s instruments’ will bring up some great ideas for creating your own. Begin by choosing a book that has potential for lots of sounds; animal stories

- what Sussex parents really read... it’s got everything in it! 12

ABC Magazine - Sussex

work really well for this as you can mimic the sound of animal footsteps and actions. Read the story to your child but, wherever possible, use your instruments to create the sounds that are in the story. For example, a good shake of a shaker can create a great snake sound, a good thud on a drum will do great large animal footsteps, quiet finger tapping on drums are perfect for little mouse footsteps, and so on. There is plenty of potential here for creating sounds for all sorts of stories and when stuck on which book to read just make a story up! The most important element to take from this is to have fun and introduce music gradually and in an accessible way. Introduce new musical elements over time and, especially in the early years, don’t be too hung up on choosing an instrument for your child to learn. What you will most likely find is that the older they get the more they will take an interest in a particular instrument. For the time being, have fun, be silly and make lots and lots of lovely noise! www.musicwithmike.co.uk Please see Music with Mike's advert on page 104.

Babies were born

to love music! by Laura Dobson Monkey Music Lewes, Uckfield, Crowborough and Haywards Heath

ll babies are born with a highly sensitive ear and it is important that in order for them to grow mentally, emotionally and physically that we help develop this. From about three months old babies become more sociable. They enjoy the company of their parents, but also that of other human beings, both adults and other babies. By this age most parents will have learnt and will continue to learn enough about their baby’s ways and messages to get their responses right most of the time. However, most parents are looking to optimise their baby’s development and music can help with this, both informally in the home, and in more formal music sessions. A leading researcher in to music education, Professor Edwin

Gordon, believes that to learn a foreign children need both language with ...most informal and greater ease. parents formal musical experiences to There are four are looking to maximise the key areas of optimise their educational development baby’s development that it is benefits of and music can music. important to encourage help with Music is a vehicle for babies in a this... which paves the stimulating musical way for healthy child environment: development. Research has 1. Social and Emotional shown that in order to help a Development - through baby’s brain grow, he should feeling and understanding be immersed in environments 2. Physical Development that are emotionally and - through moving and seeing intellectually rich and 3. Language Development stimulating. Early experiences - through talking and listening shape the way that circuits are 4. Creative Development made to the brain. - through all of the above It is a widely accepted belief that music can help in a multitude of areas in a child’s development. Many research studies have isolated the specific educational benefits of music. These can range from an improved ability in mathematics to the aptitude

Social and Emotional Development A very young child will develop socially and emotionally through ‘feeling and understanding’ what is happening around them.

It is incredibly important for a baby to feel loved and attached to his parent. It is proven that the more an infant is cuddled and held, the more secure and independent he will be when he gets older. We know that by touching and massaging a baby we can help with their digestion and help relieve any stress that they may be feeling. The gentle motion of rocking a baby (especially in a parent or carer’s arms) can sooth an upset baby. Babies love other babies! They love to look at other faces of children and grown-ups. Young babies will learn to know familiar faces and draw away from strangers. They can become anxious or upset if their main carer is out of sight. Did you know that by six months a baby will normally respond to their parents/carers and love having things to look at, to touch and to play with and put in their mouth? (continued over the page)

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They may even start to imitate gestures such as a cough and they may even poke out their tongue! By nine months babies understand when you go away, you will come back and that you are still there even when he can’t see you. Games such as peek-a-boo and hiding games are favourites at this age because they play out the coming and goings of people and favourite objects that a baby knows. It is important that parents and carers become confident role models for their children and by attending a music group with other children and grown-ups they can learn to bond with their child through sharing positive learning experiences. A confident role model will instil confidence in a child and in turn a confident child will be a happy child. Physical Development The neurons for vision begin very early on in life and

babies need stimulating visual experiences in order to exercise their visual skills. A baby will rely on using ‘visual tracking skills’ to explore objects and faces. By exercising their visual skills they reach out and grasp and develop an awareness of space.

If you find a good music group they will be able to help and support this physical development by using special props and handheld instruments that are designed for babies to hold and play. By encouraging babies to pick up small instruments we are giving them a sense of power. By repeating an action ...the and learning more they to play their will learn to join instrument in, and this will be our babies are of benefit to the learning to recognise the development of outcome of their bodies and their actions. brain.

Babies make good eye contact and watch activities around them. They like looking and people and bright colours and move their eyes to follow a face or moving toy. They also like moving pictures and learn to locate the source of a sound and to track it with their eyes when it appears. Did you know through understanding spatial concepts such as 'in', 'out', 'over' and 'under', your baby is learning about the space around him in preparation for learning to walk and move more freely?

Call Suzanne on 01273 326923 or 07931 187399 for a free trial session

est. 1997

By repeating patterns and congratulating babies they learn from their role models what is going to happen next. As our babies become more confident and familiar with different activities, the more they will learn to join in, and this will be of benefit to the development of their bodies and brain. Language Development Did you know that babies are born with the potential to speak any language? Babies love to make sounds. We cultivate and discard particular sounds according to the language we speak. By six months old language closely starts to resemble real words.

Creative Development In the womb a baby can hear what is going on around them from as young as twenty weeks. Newborn infants possess an abundance of genes and synapses ready to learn music. From as young as three months old a baby is ready to actively start to respond to music. They will turn towards a sound, swat a sound and start vocalising sounds like ‘aaaaahhhh’ and ‘ooooooh’. By six months they start to imitate sounds and by seven months they can track a sound from above and below and tell tunes apart. By eight or nine months they can respond to a simple song with simple actions such as waving and clapping. Some children, by a year old, when singing, can follow a melodic pattern. A good music class can really support your child’s development through a stimulating musical experience, and you are both having fun too! BAC Laura Dobson, Principal of Monkey Music Lewes, Uckfield, Crowborough and Haywards Heath, runs weekly Monkey Music classes for babies and young children from 3 months to 5 years. For more information or to book a complimentary class call 01825 760970 or email lewes.uckfield@ monkeymusic.co.uk Read more about classes at www.monkeymusic.co.uk

By interacting verbally they will be developing circuits of the brain for healthy all round development. Facial expression is key, as babies are interested in the movement of a face. Babies often enjoy imitating animal noises as part of building their own sound bank. In a music class environment you want to be seeing dramatic voices and interesting sounds, exaggerated movements and bold facial expressions. By keeping words simple and repetitive we help our baby's learning. If setting up and running your own local Music with Mummy group appeals to you then please take a look at their ad and article on page 151.

ABC Magazine - Sussex

by Penny O’Neal Sing & Sign mum

Take time to sign the benefits of baby signing

am passionate about early communication and have an extra reason for this as the eldest of my three children, my lovely Johanna, has special needs. Communication has not always been easy with her, so I am especially aware of the importance of cherishing and making the most of it with my gorgeous other two, Fergus and Chloe. that you may ask? It’s a typical nursery rhyme we all know, but as she looks into my eyes I see the level of communication this song is now evoking as she grows. I know this is an invaluable game for her, one which holds so many of the vital facets of communication; eye contact, good attention, listening, facial expression, anticipation, repetition, gesture

and if you wonder why I feel the need to analyse it like that, I’ll explain. I found I was pregnant for the second time in the same week we learned that my eldest girl had serious developmental delays... what timing! My beautiful Johanna had very poor communication, bless her and it had been recommended that

we start using some simple signs from sign language with her, to help her focus attention on us when we spoke - just a few signs for important words like more, drink, cuddle for example. She certainly benefited from this, but the remarkable thing was how my second child, Fergus, picked up these signs (continued over the page)

F 24 bir rom th m on to th s

My four month old daughter, Chloe, and I already attend a baby signing music group. We love it! These special sessions for babies under six months taught us a new version of an old favourite, ‘Round and round the garden’ expressly to encourage communication. For the last few weeks we’ve been enjoying this little song together after her bath. What’s special about

Nows in it

14ulous th

fab r! yea

Age-appropriate classes. Three types available: 0 - 6 months 6 - 14 months 14 - 24 months

Brighton & Hove (01273) 540266 • Worthing 07941 106695 • Lewes (01273) 243786 • Eastbourne (01323) 365324 • Chichester (01243) 790330 • Horsham (01403) 242982

Can't get to a class? Learn at home with our DVD! www.singandsign.com ABC Magazine - Sussex

(continued from previous page) started going to our local himself at the age of around baby signing classes, partly to seven months. He’d seen us make some friends of my own using them with his sister, and but also so that Fergus could then he just took off and flew socialise. What a brilliant with the signing. They came so success that was and it extended thick and fast, it was absolutely my own understanding of the remarkable! I remember his first development of communication sign at seven months (‘more’) in our little ones. The classes and then the second soon after taught us lovely songs to enjoy ‘hot’, as I always used this at home but also the value of word to warn Johanna about signs for how your baby may my cup of tea. Then one day be feeling (‘angry’ and he even signed ‘hot’ when the ‘frightened’ are good ones for kettle boiled. Another fabulous emergencies!) or needs a nappy memory is of Fergus, sometime change or a sign for pain when before his first birthday, when something hurts. we visited my mother-in-law. He sat on her lap while she Fergus talks all the time now looked through an animal and I know that his speech picture book with him has been really given and he signed all a boost by his the animals to exposure to The class her. She said it signing. He’s uses music to was like he was such a happy really connect with reading, even little boy, he your baby face to though he was can always face, learn a few too young to make himself talk! understood, signs and enjoy has a wide each other. While all this spoken vocabulary was going on I had and consequently

ABC Magazine - Sussex

doesn’t lose the plot, even now he’s in the terrible twos!

If you have a baby, in the earliest days you know your baby will cry and eventually you know So here I am with my that he or she will learn third (and final, I to talk instead promise!) baby, but I hope I’ve Try baby my gorgeous inspired you to signing, and you Chloe. She explore what can help your baby and I went to happens in communicate better a free taster between! There and enjoy all the of our baby are months benefits and fun signing music and months that brings! class for the of development younger age group still to take place (under six months). before those first The class uses music to words are spoken. Rather really connect with your baby than just sit back and wait, face to face, learn a few signs perhaps a long time, for first and enjoy each other. Aside spoken words I can tell you that from ‘Round and round the this is the best of journeys and garden’, we also love the Peek-a- one in which you can really boo song with soft toy Jessie Cat play a part! Try baby signing, and ‘Where is the noise?’. Fergus and you can help your baby and Johanna join in at home communicate better and enjoy with Chloe now, it brings them all the benefits and fun that all together which is lovely. brings! BAC

December 1st to 6th and February 16th to 21st Sing and Sign free taster sessions across Brighton & Hove www.singandsign.co.uk

Tales of mystery & imagination... or why a young mind can learn so much from being taught so little!

by Mandy Chapman Little Stars Academy images by Simon Redhead Photography

s principal of a leading performing arts school, I’m often asked about the benefits of the young drama and imagination classes. I feel I could write a book on the many reasons why this part of the performing arts is so incredible for young children, but will try and stick to the major benefits for this piece! Good communication is an essential life skill, helping us make friends, get the most out of school, land a dream job and succeed in that dream job. At a young age this all starts with imaginative play... Imaginative play is essentially when children are role-playing and are acting out various experiences they may have had or something that is of some interest to them. They are experimenting with decision making on how to behave and are also practising their social skills. Children learn from experience; from what happens around them, from what they see, hear, smell, taste and touch. To absorb those experiences and

make sense of the world around them they need to be engaged in imaginary play. Within young drama sessions this imagination can be taken further with unusual ‘props’, pieces of costume and accessories. A child is allowed to improvise and explore, with the tutors and teachers at the sessions being more ‘facilitators’ than instructors, just adding offerings of storytelling and assisting creativity, therefore enabling the children to gain confidence using verbal and non-verbal communication. Psychologist Sandra Russ (2004) identified a number of different (continued over the page)

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cognitive and affective processes that are associated with pretend play and imaginative roleplaying. Her research dealing with play involved fantasy, make-believe, symbolism, organization, cognitive integration of seemingly separate content, and divergent thinking (the ability to come up with many different ideas, story themes and symbols). This allows the expression of both positive and negative feelings. These sorts of carefully structured sessions also help develop empathy for others. If children can imagine how it feels to be left out of a game they are better able to help those in need. They become more willing to play fairly, to share, and to co-operate. This is one benefit I particularly value; that drama teaches empathy. They get to feel and see how others might have felt in that situation. Personally, I believe that developing empathy is incredibly valuable for

CREATIVE DANCE FOR CHILDREN IN BRIGHTON

• Fun and friendly atmosphere • Exercise that is both physically and creatively rewarding • Imaginative dance using exciting props • Inspirational music from around the world • Experienced teachers

FROM AGE 2 • Pre-school classes • Parties • After school classes • Holiday workshops Kate Adams (01273) 600 126 magicmovesdance@btinternet.com www.magicmovesdance.com

developing our communications skills and can often help in the early days at school.

session dedicated to this type of creativity allows a better understanding of the moral to the story, or the real meaning behind the pictures and words.

That children absolutely love drama and role-play is another great benefit. In today’s world In early childhood, drama needs where many children are no written lines to learn, or rushed from one class structured patterns to another in the to imitate, nor hope of giving is an audience This is them the required! one benefit ‘edge’ when They need I particularly they start only a safe, school, young value; that interesting and children stimulating drama teaches can often environment empathy... associate classes and the freedom with repetition, to experiment with structure and effort. roles. Opportunities In fact, I have noticed how for dramatic and imaginative hard some children find it to play that are child-initiated just relax, join in and contribute are important for all young their own ideas. They are so children. Because individual used to commands and being expression is the key, children given something specific to do of all abilities enjoy and learn so that using their own (usually much from the experience. BAC vastly creative) imagination Mandy Chapman F.I.S.T.D is the creator can be hard to get going! This of the new ‘Little Stars Academy’ is where the special training of which specialises in classes for the staff comes to the fore; to pre-school including ‘Acting Up’. encourage and stimulate but Please contact on 01903 205525, visit www.little-stars-academy.co.uk not dictate; to enhance and or find us on Facebook cajole but not give an exact www.facebook.com/LittleStarsUK instruction. Children, given the chance, will naturally act out a story they have heard, a programme they have watched on television or a specific part of a film. They do this to help internalise what they have just learned and to help it make sense in terms they can comprehend. In a sense they are ‘working out’ what they just experienced and are bringing it to life for themselves. Drama and role-play in a

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Dance like nobody’s watching...

by Betty Maguire A pupil at Dance Art Studio, Brighton

s I write this article I’m about to start the next stage of my dance journey by studying dance at sixth form college. I have just started studying for my A levels and I will spend the next two years studying Spanish, psychology and - most importantly double dance! After my A levels, I hope to study dance further at university or a dance conservatoire and then I aspire to go on to have a great career in dance. it fun, but it also helps build I started dancing when I was children’s confidence and three years old, originally provides a great outlet for because I fancied a pink tutu both energy and creativity. As like Angelina Ballerina’s (still well as boosting confidence waiting on that pink tutu!) My and creativity it has also been mum enrolled me at Dance proven to make you happier. Art Studio and I fell in love Dancing releases chemical with ballet right from the hormones called start - so much so Endorphins - the that my mum As well body’s natural signed me up as boosting feel good for tap lessons chemicals, and at the age of confidence and when they five. It didn’t creativity it has are released stop there; also been proven through when I joined to make you exercise, Dorothy happier. your mood is Stringer High boosted naturally. School, in year As well endorphins, 7, I was introduced exercise also releases adrenaline, to a wide variety of dance serotonin, and dopamine. styles such as jazz, modern, These chemicals work together bangra, broadway, street to make you feel good. So why and my absolute favourite... not dance? contemporary. Personally, I think that everyone should dance, especially from a very young age. Not only is

In year 10 I started my two year GCSE Dance course. (continued over the page)

Term-time holidays what we think • 17% of parents have taken a holiday abroad during term time. • Families taking some or all of their UK holidays during school time estimate they saved on average £646. • 19% estimate they save over £1,000. • 23% estimate that it’s cheaper to pay ‘school fines’ than go abroad during the school holidays. • 23% thought a week off school was acceptable. More information on taking your children out of school is available at www.gov.uk/school-attendance-absence/overview Research commissioned by Gocompare.com

Tiny Tots Ballet from 3 years. RAD Ballet classes for girls and boys. Adult Ballet classes. Teen Jazz.

FOR MORE INFO: Tel. 07500 724236 or 0845 689 4014

info@brightonandhovedanceacademy.co.uk

ABC Magazine - Sussex

by Erica Waller www.muminthesouth.co.uk

Gracie five, Daisy two and a half, Bliss fifteen months...

o I can no longer say “I have three under-fives”. That was my explanation for everything, my un-brushed hair, bad behaviour (children's, not mine), lateness, poor driving, you name it. What will my excuse be now?

I’m finding it very hard to adjust to having a five-year-old. I was telling Gracie tales about when she was a lovely little baby. I had to stop, mid-story, to bite my fist and look into the middle-distance, trying to stop the inevitable tears. She said “Mum, if it makes you cry so much, you can just pretend I am still four” and ran off. I can’t even clutch Bliss to me to get a lovely-little-baby fix. She weighs the same as Gracie and bites if you approach her without food. We finally got her feet measured. We went to Clarks. When we first had Gracie’s feet measured, I sneered at Clarks, claiming they were generic and remedial. Third time round? Clarks is easy to park outside, therefore it will do just fine. Turns out we have been cramming Bliss’ bricks (I mean feet) into

shoes that are far too narrow for her all this time. It’s probably why she kept removing them mere seconds after I’d spent ten minutes jamming them on. It’s all different now she has her remedial, schoolmistress, Clarksspecials though. I have to wrestle them off her at nighttime. She spends all day clomping about in them, treading on our toes and kicking us. And she won’t take her giant coat off either. If we dare remove it when entering the house she does her angry goose noise “uuuuurrrnnkKK, uuuurrrrnnnkKKKK” and bites us. At home she lurks under the hat-stand, jumping up and down in her big shoes trying to grab all our coats.

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Discover the best new picture books with Walker Books’ Picture Book Party, perfect for sharing the love of reading and storytelling with your little ones. From zebras and chimpanzees, to ice cream and dancing, this fantastic selection of picture books has something for everyone. Visit www.picturebookparty.co.uk for the latest Walker picture books, activities and more. We’ve teamed up with Walker Books to offer 3 lucky ABC readers the chance to each win a fabulous Picture Book Party goody bag, which includes a copy of Vanilla Ice Cream by Bob Graham, Daisy Saves the Day by Shirley Hughes, The Zebra Who Ran Too Fast by Jenni Desmond, Frances Dean Who Loved to Dance and Dance by Birgitta Sif and Willy the Wimp by Anthony Browne, plus stickers, posters and activity sheets. For your chance of winning simply tell us what animal Willy the Wimp is? Normal ABC competition rules apply and can be found on page 3.

ABC Magazine - Sussex

On a good note, at least she is always ready to leave the house, unlike Daisy-the-naturist who can’t bear having any clothes on. I have to bribe her with strawberry laces just to get her into knickers, and if they don’t have Peppa Pig on, I can forget it. All she wants to do is watch Peppa (naked). Whilst I am delighted by the boost it’s given her vocabulary, I’ve realised that Peppa is a precocious spoiled brat and I can’t stand her. She never says please or thank you, she picks on her poor little brother George and those two fat parents don’t offer any discipline at all. They just laugh and fall over all the time. These are Daisy’s idols. She had her second settle-in at preschool today. I asked when they thought she would be ready to stay a whole session. The response was “Let’s not run before we can walk.” Bliss can talk too now. She can say mummy, daddy, Daisy, Gracie, milk, snack, juice, keys, up, that no, yes. The list goes on and on. When Daisy was her age... well, let’s not go there shall we? They are all different and they all do, (or do not do) things in their own time. Daisy’s talking is much better now anyway. She tells me her nose is falling down when it needs wiping. She always notices when I’ve cleaned out my car “Your car all lovely nice innit mummy?” she appreciates the smell of my posh bubble bath “Mmm, what that lovely smell mummy?” If we ever go to get anything from the shelf which houses the medicine and plasters she asks “Who sick?" (only she does not pronounce the W, so it’s more “OOOooh sick?”) A real chatterbox. Especially at 4am when she comes downstairs with her heavy Peppa Pig book and wants to read it to us, or shout “Make me tea daddy!” very loudly in his face.

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During this course I had to choreograph a solo, a group composition and also had to learn some set pieces to perform in front of an examining board. As I’ve been taking dance exams from a young age, I am used to performing in front of an examiner which has given me the skills to not let my nerves get the better of me. I have improved enormously both as a performer and a choreographer over the last two years, partly from all the dance I did at school, but also from all the extra dancing I do outside of school. When I was fourteen I successfully auditioned for the Ceyda Tanc Youth Dance, which is a contemporary dance company for students aged fourteen to nineteen. With this company I have performed all around Sussex and in 2013 we won the U Dance Competition for the Sussex region which led to a four day trip to Leeds where we performed at the Northern Ballet Theatre. This trip was not only great fun, but also confirmed my desire to become a professional dancer. I am very excited about the next steps (literally!) that I will be taking on my dance journey ...and I hope that reading this has inspired you to enrol your child in dance classes - who knows where it may lead? BAC

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by Sarah Dormady Goldmans Management

Don’t put your daughter on the stage... or screen?

ind the clock back to 1980, your television had three channels, the bestselling movies were The Shining, Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back and Airplane, all straight from Hollywood. Being a screen actor was an almost unattainable goal, the cherry on the top of an acting cake! A quarter of a century later and there are 694 channels available on Sky TV and the very British, 'Inbetweeners 2 Movie' is topping the charts with over £20 million takings! So how is acting training changing to reflect the way that the market is going? There have always been a few child stars who made their name on the silver screen, but now the opportunities are huge, in an

average week casting directors However, the majority of will send out briefs for drama lessons taught children, 90% of in schools and which are now stage schools So how is either for film, are very much acting training television or aimed at changing to reflect ‘stage acting’ commercials. only. Please the way that Professional don’t think the market stage work is for a minute is going? now the cherry. that I am antiIt is a massive stagecraft, this achievement for a child is still a massively to be selected for a play at The important part of training, Donmar or The Globe. but to keep up with the trends

and employment opportunities it is essential that establishments tailor courses to the market. With the advent of the digital age it is now very easy to adapt all sorts of things; many scripts from movies can now be found online and pupils can be challenged to see how their performance compares with the original, which can also be easily viewed online. (continued over the page)

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Some people think that screen acting is easy, well, yes that’s the way it should look... I recently gave every member of an advanced class a script from Big Bang Theory, featuring Sheldon Cooper, they had all watched it and expected it to be so simple. Not one of them got even close, even by brainstorming the scene they could not find a way to deliver the humour that is so apparent when watching the show. To act for the screen you have to be real, but is it real as in yourself, or making a ridiculous character appear real? You have to discover a stillness so that your face doesn’t wobble in and out of shot, you need to connect with an audience that isn’t there. HD now captures every tiny blink, squint and twitch. As tutors you can be as creative as you like, you can film lessons and watch them back, do another take, direct the scene again. In my experience, the younger the child the better they seem to be at screen acting, they don’t overthink things, they just take direction, shoot the scene and forget all about it! Improvisation is a massive part of screen training, it is quite common for top film directors to get actors to improvise around a script, in fact Jaws and Annie Hall didn’t have a finished script when shooting began as they wanted to see how it evolved, like a living object. There are drama schools where all classes are pure improvisation, allowing pupils to express feelings, drop in and out of situations and learn to adapt to a scenario. It is a skill that needs imagination, confidence and clarity, you have to make yourself understood. I read an article recently that stated that there are three main differences between stage and screen acting.

Number one was ‘location’. On stage your audience is at a distance so everything needs to be bigger, louder and more animated, on film they are right with you, as close as they can get, so everything has to be natural. Number two is ‘material’. On stage you are likely to be performing well-loved, iconic lines, familiar to many; only on the premiere of a brand new writing will it be incomparable to anything else. On film you are speaking words never heard before and chances are never to be spoken by anyone else. You can also get it wrong with no consequence (unless it goes viral on youtube, nobody will know it took you twenty three attempts to become magnificent!) Number three is ‘character’. You may be the only person ever to play this character. Tom Cruise will always be Jerry Maguire, Daniel Radcliffe is Harry Potter, you can be free to develop and interpret a character - to become it. Many of the top vocational training institutions are now offering courses in screen acting and there are even a few colleges that specialize solely in screen acting. As an agent and parent the current opportunities for children are amazing. Children can travel all over the world and get the chance to appear alongside Hollywood superstars. The ones that do get these jobs are the total opposite of your stereotypical 'stage school brats', they are always 'nice kids', they don’t try too hard, they are immensely likeable and comfortable with who they are. This all comes across on screen. A happy child is an employable child - nobody likes a seven year old diva! BAC

www.shana-goldmans.co.uk

...it’s what everyone reads! 22

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Classes in Rhythmic Gymnastics, Trampolining, Tumbling, Ballet, Tap & Dance Classes held in East & West Sussex Squad groups available for Rhythmic Gymnastics Classes start aged 2 - 20 years Fun and friendly atmosphere Holiday workshops & after-school/weekend classes i-star Dance & Gymnastics parties available

www.i-staracademy.wix.com/istaracademy i-staracademy@hotmail.co.uk

07843 666251

Rhythmic Gymnastics is an Olympic sport

class Rhythmic Gymnast, and surprised everybody when she won two gold medals at the British Open in January 2014, followed in May by a resounding victory as she became the British Under 12 Champion. Now Hannah is part of the National British Squad.

and cartwheels with the hand apparatus and perform to music. Rhythmic Gymnastics is popular with children and parents as it helps improve many different skills such as hand-eye coordination, flexibility, strength and musicality. It combines the agility of general gymnastics but gives opportunity for children to be creative and explore movement ideas with the apparatus. Although only girls compete at top international level, rhythmic gymnastics is popular with girls and boys alike.

Hannah aspires to be one of the gymnasts in the Commonwealth games in 2018 and in the Olympics in 2020 and so she is training hard with these goals in mind. She also wants to inspire other young gymnasts in the same way she herself has been inspired and encouraged by others who have blazed the trail for British Rhythmic Gymnasts to make their mark on the national and international stage. “To even get to the British Championships was a massive achievement for me, I had dreamed about being there ever since I had watched the previous years' coverage on YouTube. After watching the Commonwealth Games this year, I knew that this would be my next goal. I have my work cut out for me, but when you believe you can achieve...The hard work and love going into my routines will hopefully show when I walk back onto the competition floor once again. I would love to compete for Britain internationally next year.”

that combines dance and gymnastics with hand apparatus such as ribbon, ball, hoop, clubs and rope. Gymnasts coordinate skills such as leaps, balances, pirouettes

i-star Academy has been running for an a number of years and is the only Rhythmic Gymnastics club to offer Rhythmic Gymnastics at both recreational level through to top international level in Sussex. Students from the club have been extremely successful and have included i-star gymnasts competing at World Championships, European Championships and Commonwealth Games. Dancers and gymnasts have been selected to perform at the O2 arena, the West End, Disneyland Paris, in the semi-finals of Britain's Got Talent, in front of royalty and some have followed career paths in circus and dance companies. Hannah Martin a student at i-star Academy started Rhythmic Gymnastics aged just nine years old, having already enjoyed recreational artistic gymnastics since she was six years old. Through hard work, determination and encouragement and training by her coaches at i-Star Academy she quickly began to develop as a first

“Inspiring young people is so important to the club and to me personally” says Maria Foster (Head Coach, Founder and Manager of i-star Academy). “We aim to not only teach the students Rhythmic Gymnastics but also valuable life skills, creating happy memories and new friendships.” Maria Foster who runs i-star Academy recently worked with the BBC as Rhythmic Gymnastics Choreographer to the celebrities for the new BBC1 show Tumble. i-star Academy also offers rhythmic gymnastics, contemporary dance, ballet, tap, tumbling and trampolining.

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Discover gymnastics B

ritish Gymnastics has launched its digital site, Discover Gymnastics www.discovergymnastics.uk The new site is designed to help people explore the different types of gymnastics, discover the one that’s perfect for them and find their local club.

British Gymnastics Chief Executive Officer Jane Allen: “Discover Gymnastics has been created to help all those inspired to take up our sport access the best opportunities to begin participation. Working with Sport England we have designed the site to ensure that every budding gymnast young or old can find the right type of gymnastics to suit them and, importantly, the top British Gymnastics registered facility nearby to get started. Gymnastics has a hugely wideranging appeal and this site helps to explain the broad offering of types available. The site matches the user with the gymnastics that will suit them, giving everyone the best opportunity to Discover Gymnastics and all it has to offer.” Many people may not realize it but gymnastics isn’t just one sport, it’s a whole range of different types or ‘disciplines’, as they’re often called,

from trampoline gymnasts performing aerial somersaults, to men’s artistic gymnasts hanging on the rings, or teams of acrobatic performers standing on their partners’ shoulders. Gymnastics is a spectacular sport to watch and it’s even better taking part! With so much choice the Discover Gymnastics site can help to match the public to the type of gymnastics they’ll most enjoy. One type of gymnastics proving particularly popular is Adult Gymnastics, be it with people first trying out the sport or those returning to get the gymnastics buzz. People can get involved in Adult Gymnastics at any age from eighteen up - even if they’ve never done anything like it before. Whether looking to take first steps in gymnastics or get back into the sport, Adult Gymnastics makes it easy. There’s a big social element, which makes the sessions a lot of fun.

what Sussex parents really want to read! Your advertisement could have been in this space 35,000 times - all for only £150! That’s nearly 250 huge copies for each tiny pound! Can you afford not to be in ABC? Call us now on (01273 ) 542257 to find out how we can make your business grow. 24

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Stop

bullying

hat is the theme for Anti-bullying week 2014 which takes place from 17th to 21st November. This is the tenth anniversary campaign and it will focus on raising the issue of the disproportionate amount of children and young people who have special educational needs and/or disabilities that are bullied in schools. The Anti-bullying Alliance defines bullying as: “the repetitive, intentional hurting of one person or group by another person or group, where the relationship involves an imbalance of power.” It can be hard to know where to turn if you think your child is being bullied, or is the bully. Parents and children can feel embarrassed and unable to talk about it to people they know. The Anti-bulling Alliance has a list of helplines and websites for both adults and children which can provide you with information and support. Find out more at www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk

Five essentials to raising a bilingual child

by Anja Ashton www.strandzwerge.co.uk

f you’ve thought about raising your child bilingually, but find the prospect daunting, or have previously tried and given up, then this article is for you. No matter what age your child, by following these five steps, you should be able to give them the wonderful gift of a second language.

Define your goals Before you do anything, ask yourself what you really want for your child. Would you like her to simply understand the second language, or be able to speak it, or read and write it, or ultimately to achieve a qualification that will allow them to work in the country of the second language? Remember, be realistic: your time and effort are finite. And beware of the dangers of hot-housing - a child who is pressured in to learning won’t flourish and will probably resent you as well.

Create an action plan The most effective way to fulfil a major goal is to break it down into small, specific and, most importantly, manageable activities that you can accomplish on a daily or weekly basis.

With a bit of research you can usually find a good range of resources to support you. Every major language has a wide spectrum of learning materials from books and DVDs to educational software and apps. Larger cities, like Brighton, usually have community resources like Saturday schools and playgroups and these are always accompanied by informal parental networks. Once you’ve done your research, plan a weekly schedule with daily activities that support the second language. Remember that a Skype call in the second language with relatives

can be as valuable as more formal learning.

Maximise human exposure No matter how great your learning aids, there’s no substitute for interacting with people who speak the second language. Indeed, without such interaction children don’t reach the comfort level that enables them to willingly use the language. A University of

Miami study found that the children who spent less than about 20% of their waking hours interacting with people in the second language learned words and phrases, but did not make their own sentences. Here are some simple tips on speaking and interacting for maximum learning input: • Keep it natural. Everyday conversation is the best way for a child to learn. • Keep on talking, even if your child doesn’t. Think aloud in your language if necessary as studies show that children, even if too young or not fluent in the language, can pick up an elaborate vocabulary. • Use actions and gestures to give context to the words that you use. • Try not to overwhelm your (continued over the page)

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child - a couple of new words at a time are fine. • Don’t feel self-conscious about speaking the language to your child in front of people who don’t understand it.

Activity based learning is king Children learn by doing, so any activity that uses one or more of their five senses will enhance their learning. Studies indicate that using gestures, like pointing and showing, helps them to better understand and learn the meanings of new words. So, for example, if you’re making pancakes, invite your child to get out the milk from the fridge, pour it in the bowl, count the eggs, mix in the flour and smell the vanilla sugar.

Build a bilingual community When your child enters an English-speaking school it is inevitable that English will become her stronger language, even if she continues to speak the second language at home. However, she can still progress in the second language if you continue to speak it to her. Not only will it help her development in both languages, but it will also make it much easier for her to learn new ones. My previous ABC article ‘The bilingual brain boost’, examines these and other positive effects of bilingualism on the children’s intellectual, cognitive, and social development. You can read it on the homepage of my website www.strandzwerge.co.uk. BAC For more information contact me on 07930 494 822 or email info@strandzwerge.co.uk

...what Sussex parents really read!

Brighton’s German Kindergarten ‘Die Strandzwerge’ In our little home-run world everything is activity based. While we sing, bake, role-play, paint and dress up, we learn German, make new friends and have lots of fun together. Located in the heart of Kemptown we have a lovely, childfriendly indoor and outdoor environment. Children learn languages faster and easier in their pre-school years. We keep our groups very small in order to provide the high quality setting that best supports the language development of each individual. www.strandzwerge.co.uk

The German Saturday School Brighton & Hove Saturdays during term-time from 10am to 12noon. • Playgroup: 0 to 3 year-olds • Pre-school: 3 until they start school • 1. Klasse: 4 & 5 year-olds • 2. Klasse: 6 & 7 year-olds • 3. Klasse: 8+ year-olds • Lessons for non-German parents/adults We are always looking for German-speaking volunteers and teachers. The following school events are open to the public: 9 November: Laternenumzug (lantern walk) in Hove park 7 December: Nikolausfeier & Weihnachtsbazar/Christmas Fair For more details please visit www.dssbrightonhove.org

Silencing the mother tongue only makes it harder to learn English

by Allyssa McCabe

he best way for a child to excel at English is to be good at their own native language. The message from academic research is that, at home, smart parents should stick with the language they know best. Speak that with your children - even if you can’t read it with them. English will take care of itself in time - and be better as a result.

It’s a simple principle, but one that has been much disputed amid the mythologies surrounding multilingualism. Many people continue to believe - contrary to overwhelming evidence - that speaking to a child in their native language confuses them and slows them down in learning dominant public languages such as English. As a result, many parents coming to the UK from other countries inadvertently and tragically rob their children of vital languagelearning skills. They make the

ABC Magazine - Sussex

mistake of focusing on English and silencing or downgrading their mother tongue at home. I’ve seen the results. In a facility that provides childcare to at-risk infants and children, there is a new three year old girl whom aides refer to as the ‘Shut-up Girl.’ Her single mother speaks Spanish and is an undocumented immigrant. The little girl, however, knows little Spanish so far as her caregiver (a native Spanish-speaker) can tell. Whenever anyone addresses her in any language, all the little girl

does is yell, "Shut up!" Evidently, that is one phrase her mother knows in English and has taught her daughter. If you downgrade your heritage language, you deprive a child of access to a whole lot of enriching experiences... that can also impact on their reading ability and access to the school curriculum. If you downgrade your heritage language in this way, you deprive a child of access to a whole lot of enriching experiences. They do not get the benefit of you

speaking in your most proficient language. As a result, they miss out on your capacity to engage with them at your best, using enriched communication, full of vocabulary, syntactical and grammatical complexity as well as lengthy, complex stories. All of these factors are linked to developing their long-run capacity to learn other languages including the dominant language - proficiently. These losses can also impact on their reading ability

and therefore, ultimately, on access to the school curriculum. We now know that oral language difficulties are the root of many reading problems. Two year olds are unable to tell a narrative. Some parents talk with these children, asking them about who they played with, whether they went out in the snow. These are the children, typically, who, by the ages of four or five, can give a long narrative. And that early capacity predicts success in reading and comprehension tests a few years later. So it’s wise to be speaking to young children in your best language. Sharing these insights is vital, given that many parents may feel their own language is less prestigious than English. They don’t realise that it is a wonderful gift, a great tool that they have brought with them.

remember a Portuguese mother, Some fear that using it could who was not very literate even in block their child’s opportunities, whereas, in fact, proficiency in her own language. Her daughter came home saying that her their native language enhances teacher said it was important to children’s life chances via their read books at home. But every improved capacity to learn other time they went to a read languages and to connect properly with book, they would end up screaming extended family We now at each other. and community. know that I said to this There are oral language mother: "Just parallels here talk with with sport difficulties are your child in the sprinters the root of Portuguese who become many reading and things bob sled will go better." champions problems. Parents can find and with music. it difficult for lots A violinist’s capacity to learn the piano is of reasons to support early reading in their native enhanced, not hampered, by playing their first instrument well. language. Take Cambodians, for example - the Khmer Rouge destroyed reading material and Appreciating the value of killed many of the people who the spoken native language could read. So many parents is particularly important for cannot read and don’t have access parents who lack literacy skills. I

to books. For them, the best advice is to speak to their children in Khmer. In short, telling parents to read with children is not nearly as important as parents talking about whatever is of interest to the children. If a child is interested in trucks, talk about trucks. If they aren’t, don’t talk about trucks. Just talk about what matters to them. Language deficiency can be a source of great social disadvantage but proficiency can be a route to enhanced life chances. We need to make sure that parents, desperate to give their children opportunities in a new and sometimes hostile country, do not inadvertently make life more difficult for them. Taken from childandfamilyblog.princeton.edu

The benefits of learning Chinese C

by Xirong Zeng www.chinaspecial.co.uk

hina is one of the world’s oldest and richest cultures, the most populous nation and the second largest economy in the world. Mandarin Chinese is the most widely spoken first language in the world; currently Mandarin is spoken by over one billion people around the world, about one fifth of the global population.

Prime minister David Cameron visited China last year and urged British students to learn Mandarin - the tongue of the future. The Prime minister said that pupils should look beyond the traditional French and German lessons and instead focus on Chinese and learn a language that will "seal tomorrow’s business deals" (The Guardian, 5th December 2013). The British Council placed Mandarin in the top four most important languages for Britain’s future prosperity, security and influence. There are huge benefits in starting to learn a language from an early age. Children pick up new languages very quickly and can become fluent very fast. This learning process can be very beneficial to their development. Private tuition on a one-to-one basis is clearly the most productive way to learn a new language and get faster and more efficient results. A professional, experienced and enthusiastic tutor will provide quality, tailor-made, challenging lessons to help students reach their full potential, ensure correct pronunciation and word order, and will make the lessons practical, enjoyable and achievable. A good Chinese tutor will also use this wonderful language and culture to show and teach students to respect their parents and elders, family values, love, honesty, modesty, diligence and thriftiness.

Chinese is not as difficult as you may think. Chinese has a relatively uncomplicated grammar. Chinese has no verb conjugation (no need to memorize verb tenses!) and no noun declension (i.e, gender and number distinctions). The basic word order of Chinese is: subject verb - object, exactly as in English. Each year, more and more students around the world are studying Mandarin with enthusiasm and success. If they all can learn it, so can you and your children!

Chinese lessons

Creative and high quality Chinese Mandarin lessons for the fastest possible progress. Tuition for both children and adults from a professional and experienced Chinese native teacher in Brighton. Private 1-1 lessons or in small groups. 07796 210160 zxirong@hotmail.com www.chinaspecial.co.uk ABC Magazine - Sussex

Embracing

mobile technology

s many young children embark on their journey through the school years, they will face increasing pressure and expectations from peers to be connected to the world via mobile devices and the Internet as part of both their social lives and studies. This is far-removed from the experiences of their parents’ schooldays and child psychologist, Dr Amanda Gummer, urges them to understand and embrace their technology as part of keeping children safe online. The versatility of technology enables children’s learning to be much more bespoke and therefore more relevant, engaging and enjoyable and Dr Gummer, founder of child development, play and tech advice website www.fundamentallychildren.com believes that parents should not be afraid of encouraging their children to engage with technology as part of a balanced play diet. “Getting independent expert advice on apps, eSafety and managing screen time can help parents feel more in control of their children’s technology. In the mean time, here’re some tips from the experts at Fundamentally Children on what to look for when evaluating the pros and cons of the tech children engage with,” says Dr Gummer. Look for technology that: • Allows personalisation - children benefit when learning and play is targeted to them and they feel that they have control over aspects of it. • Encourages socialisation - technology that encourages children to play together, communicate or compete will help promote social development. • Uses new technologies to enhance traditional play patterns - for example, role play. • Widens access to play by children with additional needs. • Promotes active play - technology that encourages children to move around rather than staying sedentary. Be careful with technology that: • Has poor linking between on and offline play patterns. • Shoe-horns technology into toys and games that doesn’t improve play value or accessibility. • Has too narrow a focus on limited play patterns. • Is addictive - addictive games with no tools for regulating time spent on screenbased play. Avoid: • The inclusion of technology where it reduces the flexibility and play value of a toy (over spec’d toys prevent children from developing problem-solving and imagination skills). • Poorly designed games that will frustrate and confuse children. • Devices without appropriate parental controls. • Apps and connected games that enable access to inappropriate material. 28

ABC Magazine - Sussex

by Claire Ridley Gazoob

Evaluating the educational benefit of apps

he number of families owning a tablet or digital device of some shape or form has increased dramatically over the past few years. And, as we find ourselves more comfortable with the technology, it’s only natural that our children too are embracing with enthusiasm the digital devices with which they are now surrounded. But of course, most parents are keen to ensure that their digital devices are not crammed full of games with little purpose or too much addictive play. And in fact, most of us would prefer our children to be engaging with something educational - particularly in the early years. Technology now gives us the perfect platform to help our children’s learning journey. And the right app can present a new learning opportunity in an exciting and engaging way. But take a look on any of the app stores and you will see a host of apps labelled as 'educational'. How does one navigate the 'Wild West' of educational apps and find apps that are truly educational?

It goes without saying really, that to find the best educational apps, you’ll need to do your own homework! But, here are some hints, tips and ideas that might help you in your search. Where to start? A good starting place is to think carefully about the skill you’re looking to develop. Do you want your child to improve their reading, help them

recognise numbers or develop problem solving skills? Then, think about how your child likes to learn. Will the familiarity of a known character engage your child? Or would they benefit in picking up their school studies at home with a familiar learning scheme?

can easily monitor progression and comprehension before progressing to more challenging content.

No-no’s for education apps There are some features you should try to avoid. Apps that could get Ask for your child hooked You will advice or those that soon get an Like most have in-app things, purchases understanding of the best whether the app is without a advice will child-proof too easy or too come from mechanism are difficult. generally not recommendations. great choices! Speak to teachers for their advice, or indeed Parents often fear that speak with friends at the school using tablets and smartphones, gates and see which apps their in particular, can be an isolating children are learning the most experience given the nature of from. Equally, there are many the small screen. The best piece review sites out there for apps of advice we can offer is get and you can take some advice involved! Just as you sit with from expert reviewers. your child to read a book - do the same with your tablet or Take the app for a spin smartphone. Make it a shared yourself! experience and talk about what There’s no better way to is happening on-screen. This understand if an app is going way you will know exactly what to deliver the right level of your child is looking at, you will educational benefit to your child know exactly how well they are than by trying it yourself. You doing in the particular app, and will soon get an understanding you will be able to accompany of whether the app is too easy them on their learning journey. or too difficult. All the best apps Claire Ridley is a mum of two pre-schoolers are rigorously tested to ensure and resident app enthusiast at Gazoob. they deliver the right level of Gazoob is a developer and publisher of engagement for your child. educational apps including 'Read with Biff, Chip & Kipper' in partnership Many apps - like our 'Read with Oxford University Press, and with Biff, Chip and Kipper' app Letterland Storybook apps. - are placed into levels so you

...it’s got everything in it! ABC Magazine - Sussex

by Lucy Magrin Creator and Director of Speech House Ltd

The Communication Tree

How to recognise your child’s stage of language development and help their speech flourish

he first three years of life are crucial to communication as this is the time when the brain is developing and maturing, so the quality of the interaction between carers and their children at this time plays a huge part in supporting language development. But if you suspect that your child’s language skills lag behind those of their peers, it can be difficult to pinpoint where the problem lies and how you can help. The Communication Tree can give some insight. How exactly does language develop? Language is partly innate and partly learnt, and its development typically follows a pattern, with some key areas developing before others. In the same way that a tree needs roots before it can develop its trunk, young children need to develop key skills before

they can talk. To begin with, a child needs to be able to focus his attention and be interested in interacting socially with the world around him. Once able to do this, he will begin to attach meanings to words and begin to understand simple instructions and key concepts. These are the roots of the communication tree.

Something for everyone! A delicious mix of new nursery rhymes and poems that will entertain children and adults alike. With four sections - Wild Things,That’s Ridiculous!, Out and About and Home Again, this collection of original poems by the award-winning writer and illustrator Hilda Offen, celebrates the enduring glory of rhythm and rhyme. Available from all good bookshops, Amazon or directly from the publishers www.troikabooks.com priced £5.99

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Understanding words and phrases leads to saying words expressively, which we relate to the trunk of the tree. In the same way that a tree will make a new ring every year, people frequently learn new words for the rest of their lives and so their communication tree trunk becomes bigger and stronger. The next parts of the tree to grow are the branches. In the communication tree, these represent a child’s ability to link words together in order to construct simple sentences such as “Daddy gone car”. Following this, grammatical and morphological elements develop in a child’s sentences to give more meaning, for example, “Daddy’s gone in the car”, and these are the leaves of the tree. The final part of the tree to develop is the fruits and this is what we relate to as ‘speech clarity’.

My son can make most speech sounds but speaks as if he is talking in another language. Why is this? It is most likely that your child is struggling to understand spoken language and as such his difficulty is at the root level of the communication tree. Imagine going to a new country and listening to a language you have never heard before. Initially it will seem like a long stream of speech sounds with little breaks in between but, as

you begin to understand basic key words and phrases, you will begin to be able to pick these out from the stream of sounds you hear. We call this ‘word boundaries’. Children who have not yet learnt words and associated them to what they represent will speak with ‘jargon’ as this is what they hear.

together to make sentences, or possibly struggle to co-ordinate their mouth/tongue movements.

You can help your child by modelling for him what he could say next, for example, if he picks up a car but says nothing, you say ‘car’; if he says one word (‘car’) you say two back (‘blue Children car’); if he says who have not two words (‘blue yet learnt words car’) you say and associated them three back to what they represent (‘big blue car’) will speak with and so on.

You can help your child by simplifying your language so that they can work ‘jargon’ as this out word is what they boundaries. Receptive For example, and expressive hear. when out shopping language difficulties you can show and name can happen for many food items for them and when reasons such as hearing reading books you can label difficulties, family history of items rather than just reading delayed language (genetics), to them. Try having themed poor attention control, weeks, for example, body and difficulties with social parts, travel, farm, food, home interaction, to name a few. A equipment, and use books, speech and language therapist nursery songs, and real life can help to determine which experiences on the theme. part of the communication process has broken down and My son understands why, and give advice for ways everything but only uses in which you can help your a few single words. Why child, as well as which treatment is this? options are best for them. Your child is most likely Lucy Magrin is Creator and Director experiencing expressive language of Speech House Ltd, a local company difficulties and is currently at dedicated to improving the the tree trunk level. Children lives of children with communication difficulties may experience expressive Please contact us on 01903 530681 language difficulties if they are www.speech-house.co.uk unable to find the words they info@speech-house.co.uk want to say, can’t link words

Established 1991

Babies and children 0 - 5 years Open from Monday to Friday 8.00am - 6.00pm all year round Fully inclusive fees including breakfast, lunch, nappies etc.... Morning, afternoon, short days or long days for all ages Term-time only places available Early Years Professional Status Teacher Fully qualified & experienced staff with over 100 years of childcare experience between them! High staff to child ratios all staff Paediatric First Aid trained Early years funding for 2, 3 & 4 year olds 5 star excellent food safety rating Completed Accreditation Scheme all at Credit level

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...the longest established, best-read parenting magazine in Sussex. To be part of it call (01273) 542257 ABC Magazine - Sussex

Forest School and the Early Years by Nikkie Morris Chelwood Gate Nursery

any early years practitioners are concerned about the lack of time today’s children spend in the outdoors and in natural environments. This is not just a problem for schools and settings, it is part of a worrying childhood trend that has been evident for several years. In a report for the National Trust Steven Moss states “our nation’s children are missing out on the pure joy of connection with the natural world.” The early years in a child’s life are absolutely critical. There is overwhelming evidence that if the foundations that are laid in the first few years of life are weak, it can have permanent and detrimental impact on children’s longer term development. Attainment, wellbeing, happiness and resilience are profoundly affected by the quality of experiences offered to them.

Forest School is an inspirational process that offers all children regular opportunities to achieve, develop confidence and selfesteem, through hands on learning experiences with nature in a safe environment. Forest Schools can work hand in hand with the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum. Forest School for young children from two to five years has to be viewed separately from that of older children. It needs to be a program that is designed especially for the needs of

very young learners. Children need to feel the enthusiasm from the staff around them and the sense of trust in the adults leading them into an unfamiliar environment. Forest School sessions are child led, by observing children’s interests within settings practitioners can involve the children in planning what they want to achieve from a session, what location they wish to go to in order to best achieve their target and how they wish to get there. Children work with adults to organize what equipment they will need. If den building is an activity different types of tarpaulins will be taken into the forest, if cooking is chosen pots and pans will be fetched in order to create a mud kitchen to conjure up potions. Some days, children

will choose smaller tasks such as decorating trees with mud faces or simply making leaf pictures. Every session the children learn about the weather; they dress themselves in layers, wearing fleecy layers in winter and cotton in the warmer months. They also develop a sense of community within their group, helping friends traverse obstacles and streams. As many Forest School activities are self-initiated they are also self-regulated, allowing children to develop their skills over time, at their own pace. Being outside and enabling young children to engage with nature and their environment encourages the habit of exercise that can be sustained in their lives. Forest School is perceived to be riskier than activities that occur

www.projectwildthing.com Check out www.projectwildthing.com for ideas on how to get your child connecting with nature. The website, the brainchild of filmmaker and father, David Bond, has great ideas on outdoor activities that can last from ten minutes to half a day as well as free Wild Time vouchers to download that allow you to pledge time playing outside with your children. 32

ABC Magazine - Sussex

within a setting and for many leap forward for a young child adults who are unfamiliar with striving towards independence. the natural environment it may Knowing how high one can well seem risky to allow such climb up a tree and still have young children the freedom to enough strength to climb down develop in an outdoor setting. helps develop their own abilities However, growing up in a 'risk and knowledge of how strong adverse' society brings risks of its their bodies are. own. Children’s freedom and independence is Forest School for the being eroded by a very young child Do we want range of other is developing pressures. Far in England. our children too often Practitioners to grow up with signs in and many a precautionary children’s parents approach to play areas believe playgrounds and display 'no ball strongly in public areas? games' and so the idea of on. Do we want letting children our children to grow be free from the up with a precautionary pressures that are often approach to playgrounds and demanded of them. As a public areas? One where all practitioner I feel strongly that challenges and excitement are children benefit immensely removed? How will they learn from the opportunity of Forest how to take risks if no risk is School, a safe and secure way ever present at this foundation to play and develop freely and stage of life? independently, without any added pressure and a huge Knowing how to measure amount of FUN. the depth of a stream before www.chelwoodgatenursery.co.uk venturing into one is a great

We provide a high standard of Early Years Education and care, enabling and enhancing each child to achieve his or her own maximum potential. Morning and afternoon sessions for 2-5 year olds. We have a high child to staff ratio and caring and qualified staff. Early Years Funding available. Contact us for more information: Telephone: 07759 068015 Email: chelwoodgate@hotmail.co.uk

www.chelwoodgatenursery.co.uk

Be a nature detective! F

or something a little different take a look at the Woodland Trust’s website. It’s full of activities to do outside whatever the weather, including bird bingo and a winter wonderland hunt. Go to www.naturedetectives.org.uk/download ABC Magazine - Sussex

Childhood aspirations affect later career choices

N ool pre-schn ope es

oys who dream of becoming firemen and girls who aspire to become hairdressers are more likely to end up in stereotypically male or female occupations as adults according to new research from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).

ac extra sp e availabl

Kemptown, Brighton OFSTED Registered

Freshly cooked meals provided. A small, cosy nursery - a home from home. For visits or further information please call Cilem

(01273) 279448

Registered Charilty No: 1064792

www.stgeorges-nursery.co.uk

Open Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm. Children three months to five years. Fully qualified staff.

ABC Magazine - Sussex

The research found that children who wanted to do a job traditionally associated with their gender were twice as likely to end up in these types of occupations as adults than children who wanted to go into occupations that are not generally seen as men’s or women’s work. However, only 6% of adults went into the specific occupation they aspired to as children. A knock-on effect of this was that women who aspired to female dominated occupations as children were likely to have lower wages in their first jobs. This is because these occupations tend to pay lower average wages. Interestingly, the researchers found that girls learn to be non-stereotypically female from their mothers, but boys learn to be stereotypically male from their fathers. Girls with mothers in nonstereotypically ‘female occupations’ were more likely to aspire to similarly non-traditionally female jobs. Boys with fathers in traditionally male occupations were more likely to aspire to traditionally male jobs. However, very few children wanted to directly imitate their parents with only a small percentage of boys aspiring to their father’s actual occupation It seems that how we divide up chores at home affects how our children’s career hopes. The survey showed that boys living in families with a traditional division of housework tended to aspire to more traditionally male occupations. However, girls living in these types of households did not necessarily aspire to ‘women’s’ occupations.

From boardroom to playroom... T

by Lewis Wood Wishing Tree Nursery, Brighton

en years ago I left the high pressure world of corporate IT to open up a nursery in Brighton with my wife Jayne and four willing pioneers, Bridget, Vicky, Lorraine and Anna. Whilst today the world of technology has many more terrabytes and gigahertz than when I left it, I thought that nursery life might evolve at a more manageable pace. That said, I’ve also been known to think that England might one day win the football World Cup, so I’m not particularly well qualified when it comes to common sense over optimism! The journey from boardroom to playroom was to say the least, quite challenging. From the multi-national culture of paradigm shifts, strategic acquisitions

and other unintelligible jargon, I was about to enter a wonderful new world of cosy corners, dressing up time, heuristic play and babies throwing cornflour everywhere.

Would anyone book? Did we have enough food? Would the children take over?

In those nervous weeks leading up to the grand opening, a friend of mine bought me the recently released DVD of 'Daddy Day Care', and my whole life flashed before me. Would anyone book? Did we have enough food? Would the children take over? How would we pass the Ofsted registration? Would the builder ever take

away the overflowing skip from the front drive? Happily, just after 8am on May 23rd 2004, five very small and excited young faces arrived at the nursery door and our new journey began. Little did I realise back then in the spring of 2004, that just as (continued over the page)

rated as 'outstanding' in 2005 and 2008, our report is available on www.ofsted.gov.uk/reports.

we're registered for the Early Years Free Entitlement and Workplace Vouchers, which help to make childcare more affordable. SIBLING DISCOUNT • CCTV • SPECIAL NEEDS • OUTINGS • APPROVED FOR WORKPLACE TRAINING • QUALITY ASSURED (QuILT)

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our own journey was beginning, the world of childcare was about to experience some of the most radical changes in living memory. Ever since 1997, when Tony Blair announced that childcare would be a key component of New Labour’s policies, early years education and care has increasingly been a political chess piece to win votes. From Margaret Hodge in 2003 to the recently appointed Sam Gyimah in 2014, there have been no fewer than eight Ministers with responsibility for children and families. Only Brighton and Hove Albion have had more people in charge over the same period! Quite apart from the musical chairs with the Ministers, since 2004 the childcare sector has seen six acts of parliament, five different iterations of the Early Years Foundation Stage, the outsourcing of Ofsted inspections, a change of government and more employment legislation than the Magna Carta. Having grown up in an environment where Microsoft, Apple and Intel have been changing the world for fun, I was no stranger to the need to adapt and improve. However, with the arrival and departure of each Minister has come inevitable change, sometimes with no discernible purpose other than to put a new stake in the ground.

childminders needed agencies, ever Children Act of Parliament dare to say to Mr Gyimah that it shouldn’t have taken nearly in 2006. This has been an after ten years of playing a year of campaigning by the exciting time, with 'What’s the Time Mr Having the outcomes Wolf?', do I have the sector to see that these one-sided initiatives were unworkable. for children perfect strategy grown up in continuing to on what to do an environment Unfortunately, it appears that be high on next. where Microsoft, in an effort to achieve social, the political Apple and Intel have educational and economic aims, agenda. The Elmer been changing successive Ministers for Early However, in the room the world for Years, like transient football despite all of for all political fun... managers, keep changing these positive baby parties is that the formation and the plan, steps forward for here in the UK, a when actually what we need the sector, I can’t help but significant proportion of is a period of Alex Ferguson feel we have taken one and half care and education for children stability. toddler steps backwards. under five is with the private, voluntary and independent We all want children to receive Now I’m sure the new Minister sector, as indeed it is in most high quality, affordable early for Children, Mr Gyimah, OECD countries. Successive education and care that will will have a copy of ABC governments from Clement ultimately give them the skills to Magazine on his coffee table in Attlee onwards have allowed positively shape their lives. We’d Westminster; so ever optimistic, and encouraged this to happen. all like to close the gap between I would just like to replay some As a nursery proprietor and of the perennial questions I have businessman of thirty five years, the most disadvantaged children and their more fortunate peers. heard posed to his predecessors it seems clear to me that no one We’d all like parents and carers by childcare professionals and comes into childcare expecting to be able to make their work/ parents alike, and hope that he to float on the London Stock life choices where childcare is in post long enough to make Exchange. This is a sector built does not cost more a difference. by passionate people than the average with one very clear We all monthly For example, according to objective, to want children mortgage, the Daycare Trust, why is it improve the lives as it does in that families in the UK spend of children. to receive high 2014. We all around 25% of their net quality, affordable want children income on childcare, when in The key early education who need the rest of Europe the average message for and care... special care and spend is about 12%? Why in government attention not to the UK are maternal levels of today is to listen be left behind. unemployment some of the more sympathetically worst in the OECD? Why does to what the childcare Government and local authority the £7 billion exchequer budget sector and families are saying intervention in the public and for childcare in the UK result and at the same time level the private childcare market has in providers having to subsidise playing field between public many benefits for families and the early years funding for two, and private provision. When providers. However, what we three and four year olds? Why Elizabeth Truss, the previous are we continuing to lower the Minister for Children, proposed need now more than anything, is a consistent, predictable and age for children to enter school, that childcare professionals collaborative approach if further when clearly in many cases they could look after six toddlers progress is to be achieved. BAC are not ready? Why does the per practitioner, or that tax and benefit system often penalise parents and carers who wish to return to work after what Sussex parents maternity leave?

Undoubtedly, when I look back over the last ten years, there have been many positives for childcare and for families generally; the evolution of the Early Years Foundation Stage, maternity No one No one is denying leave extended to is denying that these twelve months, that these are are complex early years complex issues issues with funding for foundations two, three with foundations going back and four going back decades, and year olds, tax decades... clearly there have credit incentives, been many political the drive to agendas along the way. professionalise the early Not for one minute would I years work force and the first 36

ABC Magazine - Sussex

really want to read! Your advertisement could have been in this space 35,000 times - all for only £150! That’s nearly 250 huge copies for each tiny pound! Can you afford not to be in ABC? Call us now on (01273 ) 542257 to find out how we can make your business grow.

Moving on from pre-school

by Erica Waller www.muminthesouth.co.uk

o Thing-Two starts school in September. I was not really bothered when Thing-One went because she was almost five, but my poor middle child has a June birthday, so she is going to be a young one.

She already had to rush through her baby days because her little sister came hot on her tiny heels (there was not much on the television back then. Had ‘Breaking Bad’ been about I’d probably only have had the two). She would still have enjoyed being worn in the sling, or sleeping in my room. I’m not guessing at this. It’s a fact. She used to climb into the cot and poo on the pillow to show her disdain at being usurped.

with pictures that resembled people and singing Jolly Phonics in the car all the way home.

And now she is going to start school almost a year before her big sister did. Her big sister who was born cool, calm and collected. Thing-One sailed through Reception, running out of her class each day laden down

I could have dropped her off at pre-school forever. Sand, water, paint, dollies and modelling clay - all the things she absolutely loves with no targets, no homework or no scary assemblies.

Thing-Two can’t put her shoes on the right feet, only draws ‘fireworks’ (crap scribbles all over the paper, and then her face). She still can’t pronounce her ‘Rs. All she wants to do is push her pram round the kitchen and talk on my phone about meeting friends at the supermarket.

We went to the Teddy Bears’ Picnic at school last week for her to meet her classmates and check out the ‘setting’. I dragged myself up the lane slowly (I was carrying her, and she is very heavy). When we arrived, I found that almost her entire pre-school were there, seventeen familiar faces. She slipped from my arms and ran off to see her friends. I sat eating her sandwiches, and watched her run round laughing. She was happy. She shot down the slide and played the magnetic fishing game. She is going to be in a new place. It is much bigger and parts of her day may be

intimidating. Her best friend (the teacher from Pre-School) will not be there to hug her each time she falls down, (happens a lot, see above comment re: shoes) or comes charging from nowhere to dob someone in for taking her favourite dolly from her. She is not going to finish at 1pm anymore. I cannot take her home and drink tea with her. No more cheeky afternoon naps on the sofa. I realise though, having seen her in her new ‘setting’ that it is me who is going to miss these things, not her. Her years at Pre-School have given her all the tools she needs, and all her friends will be right there with her.

Whiteway Pre-school Whiteway Community Centre, Whiteway Lane, Rottingdean, Brighton BN2 7HB

• Open Monday - Friday 9am - 12.55pm Large spacious hall, fantastic outside space • EYFS and freeflow learning EYFE funding • Outings, parties, sports days, french lessons, yoga, cooking and more

www.whitewaypreschool.co.uk Tel: 07740 797 858

Charity pre-school with parent committee. Member of Pre-school Learning Alliance

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Safe surfing M

any children will be receiving new tablets, mobile phones and computers this Christmas. From the first time they access the internet they are vulnerable to inappropriate content, so it is worthwhile installing the appropriate safety software before Christmas day. On the day itself you will be far too busy, so it could be a couple of weeks before you get round to it and in the meantime there is a world of unsuitable content that is very easily accessible to them. A recent survey by BullGuard, a global leader in internet and mobile security, indicates that many parents find it difficult to safeguard youngsters against the ‘darker’ side of the internet, with one in seven finding unsuitable content on their child’s smartphone or tablet. A lot of young children are seeing images on the internet that we certainly wouldn’t like them to see in a book or film.

ABC Magazine - Sussex

The average British child now gets their own personal mobile phone at the age of eight, so a potential wealth of information is being placed in the hands of a young and inquisitive mind. The number one concern in the survey was the possibility of children talking to complete strangers online, with the chance of them being bullied, becoming distracted from

schoolwork and becoming too absorbed by online activities also placed high on the list. Most parents are taking a proactive stance in attempting to control online activity, with 54% speaking regularly to their children about the potential dangers of the internet, but 70% take the pragmatic view that a child’s natural curiosity may make it difficult to stay one step ahead.

The survey showed that many parents admit to checking their child’s internet history but only 14% regularly check who they are friends with on social networking sites, and 33% said they either rarely or never bother to check what websites their children visit. We are all busy people, and it’s not easy to keep abreast of everything your child does online. The (continued on page 40)

ABC Magazine - Sussex

The Dolphins Pre-School The Pavilion, Nevill Playing Fields, Eridge Road, Hove

Our aim is to provide a friendly, happy atmosphere to bridge the gap between home and day school, gently introducing children to community life. Graded "OUTSTANDING" in all areas by OFSTED • Large enclosed south-facing patio/garden area on perimeter of open green field • Free-flow indoor/outdoor environment gives children freedom of choice in their play • Strong emphasis on music led by qualified grade 8 staff pianists • Balance of adult-led and child-initiated play-based activities The • Structured and stimulating curriculum Dolphins Pre-School • Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is integrated into our practice and led by our graduate Early Years Professional (EYP)

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Internet offers a wealth of genuinely useful, interesting and educational content that can be of great benefit to our children, so it’s important that they have access to this in a safe and secure environment. Modern parental controls are advanced enough to allow parents to choose what sites

We welcome children from 2 to 5 years old. EYFE from age 2.

Contact: Principal Sheila Gavan e-mail: sheilagavan@yahoo.co.uk Telephone (01273) 500513 (school) 738328 (home) www.dolphins.ik.org

play : create : develop : experience : explore : learn :

Now taking from 18 months

An exciting, stimulating learning environment for 18 months - 5 year olds Spacious and well-equipped with beautiful large garden Experienced, qualified Early Years staff graduate led Nursery Education Grants accepted - two year old funding available (subject to eligibilty)

To arrange a visit or request further information please call 01273 680541

www.oakcottagenursery.org admin@oakcottagenursery.org

Oak Cottage Nursery now taking children from 18 months! Established in 1963 Oak Cottage Nursery has provided high quality care and education for generations of local children. As a non-profit making charity organisation achieving ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted grades (2007 & 2009) we believe children are at the heart of what we do! We are excited to announce that we are expanding our service to include caring for children from 18 months old! To find out more call 01273 680541 to arrange a visit!

y g 23

ratin

Cele

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are safe to visit, to view reports on a child’s activity or receive alerts if inappropriate content is detected. It is easy to forget that mobile phones and other devices with Internet access need to be treated in the same way that computers are; make sure you know and understand what your children are doing on them and set up the appropriate controls to keep them safe. BAC

NSPCC Underwear Rule

new version of the NSPCC’s campaign the Underwear Rule has been launched to help parents teach children with a learning disability about sexual abuse.

The NSPCC and Mencap have joined forces to make the popular guide accessible for both parents and children with a learning disability - they are encouraging parents to talk ‘PANTS’ to help keep them safe. ‘PANTS’, is an easy way for parents to start conversations with their children about the Underwear Rule, which has now been re-written and designed in easy-read to make it more accessible.

Privates are private Always remember your body belongs to you No means no Talk about secrets that upset you Speak up, someone can help

Jon Brown, Head of the NSPCC’s Strategy and Development for Sexual Abuse programme told us: “It’s vital we ensure all children - especially those who may be more vulnerable to sexual abuse learn how to recognise right from wrong behaviour. We need to make sure all children know the areas of their bodies that are private, that their body belongs to them and where they can seek help if they need to.” The Underwear Rule has already been viewed online over 600,000 times and downloaded over 100,000 times. To download a guide yourself or for more information please visit: www.nspcc.org.uk/underwear

Orchard Day Nursery & After-school Club Situated adjacent Queens Park, Brighton Established 1990

Open Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm

Children 6 months to 5 years - full or part-time - hours to suit

• Mature, experienced & qualified staff • Extra nursery activities including French, Music & Dance • Well equipped outdoor space plus regular trips to enjoy the park • Early Years Foundation Stage Education • Registered by Ofsted • After-school Club including school collections available

Orchard Day Nursery, Queens Park Road, Brighton BN2 0GL

Telephone (01273) 622883 www.orchard-daynursery.co.uk orchardday@yahoo.co.uk

ABC Magazine - Sussex

by Louise Lloyd-Evans Young Friends Nursery, Hove

The importance of early intervention for additional needs

he subject seems obvious - providing for additional needs - but you would be surprised how many settings don’t. Over the years I have witnessed disheartening apathy in many forms - various manifests include not utilising funding, below par Education Plans and a lack of communication between staff. These have in turn directly affected children’s school opportunities. From the outset, I swore when I started my own nursery that this would never be me. I fervently believe that doing the right thing by these families should be at the heart of our core values - simply because it can affect the rest of a person’s life. One example, and you will be comforted to know the nursery in question is now closed, was a child with significant needs who was consistently left to his own devices. It was distressing to see him staring out of the window whilst a care worker sat indifferently in the corner - his family no doubt believing he was getting the attention he clearly needed and deserved. At Young Friends, as with most nurseries I am sure, we have addressed a plethora of additional needs and, believe me, we take it very seriously. I probably appear almost paranoid to some but I am scared stiff of letting a child down. Each new case has drawn my attention further to the weight of significance of early action. I am the first to admit I am not an expert in all fields but where gaps appear I ensure we access instruction and training

from people who are and when a referral to an organisation is required it happens as soon as possible. To families the 'system' can appear complex and even awkward so it falls to us to swiftly, respectfully and confidently guide them through what can be an upsetting and adjusting time. The first port of call is finding a fabulous SENCo, or Special Educational Needs Coordinator. Their role is varied and challenging, but most of all, rewarding. The role requires many skills such as teamwork, time management, prioritising, determination and compassion. SENCos must have a love and enthusiasm for the goal they are ultimately working towards: providing the best individual academic opportunities for all children with SEN (Special Educational Needs). They should be able to confidently cross reference possible indications with their knowledge of 'normal parameters' of development. The nursery 'Two Year Check' is vital, especially with council’s cutting costs, often

leading to mere tick lists for parents in place of actual faceto-face meetings. Of course, all concerns do not lead to a diagnosis, but catching them early could conquer something that might

otherwise have swelled. Autism is, I believe, an ideal example. Caroline Hattersley of The National Autistic Society has recently stated that "the prevalence of autism is one in a hundred people." Wow. In fact a (continued over the page)

Delighting in the magical years of play... 01273 735100 89 Holland Road, Hove, East Sussex BN3 1JP www.youngfriends.co.uk ABC Magazine - Sussex

(continued from previous page)

flood of new research by centres such as this highlight further the need for earlier interventions by nurseries. Findings stress the need for diagnosis and treatment before age six when it is known to be the most effective. Recent research suggests it’s even possible to reverse autism symptoms in some infants and toddlers or, more commonly, decrease their severity. "The hope is that if we can improve intervention with infants and toddlers, many of them will be able to leave their disabilities behind by age five" says Sally J. Rogers, PhD, professor of psychiatry and behavioural sciences at the M.I.N.D. Institute, University of California.

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Ms Rogers’ assertion would be echoed by one of our current mothers at Young Friends. Her eight year old son was ‘let down’ by three consecutive settings before she came to us with his younger sister. All three refused to acknowledge what she was certain were autistic traits. This resulted in a delay in intervention and created not only a disturbed first experience of school (he was frequently accused of displaying ‘disobedient’ behaviour) but deep upset in the family and a delay in development. She says "The situation got totally out of hand due to a lack of understanding. Many people believe that you can’t be on the autistic spectrum if you are intelligent, make eye contact and don’t exhibit the more widely known autistic traits. Educators need to be made aware that the symptoms of ASC are many and various and often subtle, yet the condition can have devastating effects if it isn’t spotted early enough." We agree.

After years of fighting for a SEN statement (the crucial piece of paper that dictates the level of government funding to be provided for one-to-one support at school) he is still waiting, despite the Autistic Spectrum Condition Support Service advising he needs oneto-one support. He has had to move to a private setting that can cater for his needs and his mother has had to financially support this. She has had years of sleepless nights because her son’s condition was not spotted early enough. Justifiably she is anxious the same might happen to their almost three year old daughter, now with us at Young Friends. Though she shows minimal signs of being on the spectrum we are working closely with mum to do everything in our power to make sure if she does have any additional needs she will get everything she needs as early as we can. All nurseries should see the additional needs area of their care as one to focus on. Recently

I had a phone call from a past parent expressing gratitude to us for intervening early and spotting, again, autism in her child. He was diagnosed early and received a SEN statement that provided him with all the help he and his family needed. Now he is developing well and enjoying school both educationally and socially and the requirement for support is diminishing. Our responsibility is certainly vast but without doubt worthwhile. BAC Louise Lloyd-Evans, Early Years Professional, runs Young Friends Nursery in Hove. www.youngfriends.co.uk. The nursery has recently won a number of Nursery World awards and has been graded Outstanding by Ofsted. It is a family run homely nursery dedicated to teaching children to adopt a lifelong eco-friendly healthy lifestyle.

by Maria Oldfield Crocodoodle

Ready to write?

ost parents want to know what they can do to help their children master the skill of writing as early and as well as possible. As a result lots of children are being introduced to formal writing far too soon. Which, if they are not ready, may hinder rather than help a child’s writing development! Babies and small children do not differentiate between writing and art; both are simply a way of exploring and making marks. Sometimes on purpose, sometimes by accident, in a whole variety of ways: smearing yogurt over the high chair, drawing on steamed up windows or mirrors, driving a toy car through the mud or sand, exploring paint, crayons or chalk: “What does this taste like?,” “What does it do?”, “Did I do that?”, “Can I do it again?” Curiosity and creativity are the most important qualities to encourage if your child is to become an inquisitive, confident, self-sufficient learner later on. The skills needed for writing are developed gradually as a child grows from a baby to a child. A child must have the basic physical skills first before they attempt to write or the child may become frustrated,

disinterested and may decide at an early age “I can’t do writing,” an attitude, which many teachers know, can take years to change!

bodies to experience movement (up, down, round and round anticlockwise if possible, as this is the way most 'round' letters are formed) and put into words what their body is doing before What can we do? trying to replicate these actions The most obvious skills to on paper. (Use sticks with develop when learning ribbons, dance scarves, to write are fine slides, climbing motor skills; frames, blocks to Children using fingers to jump from, tree (in particular pick up and stumps to run boys) need practise hold small to explore and control around...) objects and their gross motor manipulate When these skills over and them actions are over and over accurately. first put onto again... This can be an paper they should enormous challenge be big - the bigger for some children, the better, the more of maybe because they haven’t the body involved in making yet mastered the preceding marks the better. If possible on step. Children (in particular a vertical surface so that 'up' is boys) need practise to explore 'up' and 'down' is 'down', not and control their gross motor backwards or forwards as it can skills over and over and over be with tabletop activities. The again before they can even more practise at this stage the begin to concentrate on the better, but make it different finer details. Using their whole every time, keep it interesting.

Use paint brushes and water one day and twigs and paint the next, chalk on the wall, use paint rollers and water to 'paint the fence', sponges, washing up brushes... whatever you have to hand, the more unusual, the more curious your child will be! Make art a part of everyday playtime. Even if only for a (continued over the page)

ABC Magazine - Sussex

motor activities, play dough (try cutting play dough with short time - if you are worried child safe scissors), puzzles, about the mess, tape an old shower curtain over the floor or threading activities, sorting dress your child in an old T-shirt small toys/pebbles/shells/play of yours. Let your child become dough into trays with sections involved in what they are doing (always supervise any small items). Gradually introduce and enjoy the process, let them smaller mark making tools, smell the wax crayons, taste again keeping it varied, cotton the paint (if it’s non-toxic) and feel the soft play dough. If your buds or straws dipped in paint, child doesn’t like 'messy' try dry felt tip pens, pencils, ball point items, chalk, crayons, dry beans, pens... And once again, use anything you may have available rice or lentils to make marks in as a 'canvas': newspaper, sticky while scooping, pouring and notes, tissues, packaging, various exploring. sized notebooks... When your child is becoming By this point your child will confident with expressing themselves in a big way you can probably be beginning to attempt to make letter like begin to explore smaller, fine shapes, copy their name or other familiar letters or numbers. They will have realised that there is a difference between writing and (continued from previous page)

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drawing but will continue to use both to convey meaning. At this point children are ready to learn how letters are formed correctly and this is the next hurdle to overcome - back to big! Use a vertical surface if possible, talk your child through letter formation (for example for 'd', "start in the middle, go round, up down and a flick") using big arm movements at first, becoming smaller and smaller as your child becomes more confident and capable. Take one letter at a time and don’t rush. If you’re not sure how to 'talk' your child through letter formation ask your child’s teacher/early years practitioner for ideas and suggestions. BAC

Crocodoodle currently runs drop-in sessions for pre-school age children on Fridays 9am -11am at St Peter’s Church Hall, West Street, Shoreham and Crocodoodle childcare all day (8am - 6pm) Monday to Thursday. For more info contact maria@crocodoodle.co.uk, hollie@crocodoodle.co.uk or see www.crocodoodle.co.uk

The use of mud

kitchens in the

early years

by Hannah Simpson Footsteps Nursery

he Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) guidance strives for the development of the whole child through a range of varied and differentiating experiences. The use of the outdoors works in partnership with the indoor learning environment. Mud kitchens have been developed in many early years settings as they have so many different learning opportunities and can be developed in so many different ways. Across the Footsteps nurseries mud kitchens have been developed and adapted to suit the individual children within that setting. For example, one branch has a large sink to be used for washing up and another has cupboards mounted to the wall for the children to use like a real kitchen. Parents are encouraged to bring in items

that can be added and put into the kitchen and children can express themselves by using the mud kitchen in any way that suits their play. Mud kitchens can support every area in the EYFS and therefore develop the child as a whole. All the children within the nursery use the mud kitchen

and the staff adapt the items that are used depending on the age of the children. The personal social benefits for children playing in a mud kitchen are huge. For example, the vocabulary that we have found to be used during this type of play has been extensive from the children describing what the mud feels like and

prompting collaborative play. Through consistent observation we have found that the children have become more confident in the outside environment and developed more independence in adding their own ideas and items. The mud kitchen has increased the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s conversation between themselves (continued over the page)

We ar our Po e expandin g r to offe tslade nurs er r places more child y c are and ta k from b e babies irth

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Nurseries Qualified & experienced staff Open 7.30am - 6.30pm all year round - morning, afternoon & full day sessions OFSTED inspected & registered for Nursery Education Grant Occasional / flexible user register available Hot lunches provided & included in the fees For more information or a prospectus please call

(01273) 416164 for Portslade, (01273) 779034 for Hove or (01273) 508533 for Hollingbury www.footstepsdaynursery.com 221 Old Shoreham Road, Portslade For children aged birth - 8 years 44 Cromwell Road, Hove For children aged 3 months - 8 years Lyminster Avenue, Hollingbury, Brighton For children aged 3 months - 8 years ABC Magazine - Sussex

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and enhanced the connections between what happens at home and relating it to a play situation in the setting. The children are encouraged to create their own reasons and responses to what happens in the different weather and how it affects the mud. The children’s physical development can be enhanced through the range of resources and how the children are encouraged to interact with mud. For example, they feel it using their hands, filling buckets up but also manipulating the spades, spoons and other utensils to carefully get the right amount of mud for the container they are using. The different weather also has an impact by changing the texture and the consistency of the mud, this can also be achieved by adding different materials. The freedom of a mud kitchen allows the children to carry out their own risk assessment and develop their knowledge of problem solving. The staff encourage

the children to solve their own problems when the children are asking questions through the use of open-ended questions. This extends the children’s confidence when undertaking problem solving tasks inside the nursery environment. The children use their own strategies to decide how they would like to use the mud kitchen and the items they would like to use. The children use different tools to make marks in the mud using their fingers, spoons, sticks and many more objects. The children use big movements using their whole body and they also use careful control movements to create their designs. Photographs can be taken and used within the setting to create a reminder and knowledge of what they have previously achieved in the mud kitchen. This is of great benefit to the children as it allows them to recap and relive, as well as being able to share their experiences with their parents. The children explore the natural

world by seeing how the mud has changed and if there are any insects living in the mud. The children have created homes for the insects and looked at how the rainwater has pooled and changed the texture of the mud. The children are supported in the mud kitchen and reassured that it is all right if they get a little muddy while playing in there. The range of benefits the children have and the learning that takes place through the use of the mud kitchen is of great influence to the children’s overall development and learning. At the Hove branch of Footsteps the children undertake Forest School sessions in small groups. Once the children have returned from the Forest School they use the mud kitchen to demonstrate some of the activities and ideas they have used. For example using the mud to create food for the fairies by adding other natural objects they have found within the garden. The children use their senses to feel and smell the food and discuss how it has been changed by the addition of other things. The mud kitchen enhances the children’s interaction and the overall knowledge of the natural environment as well as developing every aspect of the EYFS. The successful use of the mud kitchen in a nursery environment supports the child to develop as a whole. BAC Footsteps now have three day nurseries across the city offering flexible hours and funding for two, three and four year olds. Go to www. footstepsdaynursery.com to find out more.

Fees inclusive of all nappies, meals and snacks

01273 640686

www.oscarbear.co.uk laura@oscarbear.co.uk Unit 4, Firsland Studios, Henfield Road, Albourne, Henfield BN6 9JJ

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Find all this info at

igital www.abcmag.co.uk

Helping your toddler

to learn

hose few years between being a baby and going to school are very important for your little one. They are learning so much every day and it is amazing to watch. Young children are discovering the world around them and learning how they fit into it. Whether they are at home full-time or in nursery, there are so many opportunities for them to learn. This time is vital in terms of speech and language development. You will see how their ‘baby talk’ is now turning into real words and they are going from single words to putting words together.

with the Early Years Foundation Stage which sets standards for the learning, development and care of children from birth to five years old.

There are also many ways you can help your child to learn If your child is at nursery, much at home. Of course, you don’t want to be sitting down with of the day and the layout of your three year old and teaching the nursery will be geared at giving your child many learning them how to write their letters perfectly or teaching them opportunities, without them the basics of addition and even realising it. Children will subtraction, but there have fun while they are are many ways that learning. They could learning can be be playing at This not incorporated shops, listening only makes into everyday to a story, it fun for your situations and ‘writing’ in the child, but will also play. This not sand, sorting only makes it shapes - these help to satiate a fun for your are all the first toddler’s natural child, but blocks of maths curiosity. will also help to and reading. satiate a toddler’s The nursery will be natural curiosity. working in accordance

Children learn language all day, every day, through their normal daily routines and their interactions with others. They also learn and use language within their play, which means that it is a good idea to take a look at the toys you have out for your child to play with. We increasingly hear of preschoolers playing on tablets and,

of course, modern technology certainly does have its place for educational purposes and sometimes for keeping your child occupied. However, more basic toys allow for open-ended play opportunities and many more language opportunities. It is an old example, but children get so much fun from a big box; (continued over the page)

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it can be made into so many different things that uses their imagination and creativity. If your child attends a nursery, they should be able to give you a plan of what they hope to cover over the next few weeks. You only need to know the general theme and you can tie this in with what you are doing at home. For instance, if your nursery has a ‘seaside’ theme for the week, you could go to the seaside and collect some seaweed

and shells. You can count the shells, write your child’s name in shells, and make a collage with the seaweed. Your nursery may have a colour of the week, and you can collect items from home of that colour, or find a book that mentions that colour. This all helps to re-enforce what your child is learning at nursery. Reading is something that you can certainly do with your child, from a very young age. Reading time should be special for you and your child. Bedtime stories

MY FIRST FRIENDS NURSERY BARN RISE, WESTDENE, BRIGHTON, BN1 5EE

Community based nursery for children aged 18 months-5 years Open 8.30-3.30 all year round (except Bank Hols & Christmas) Located minutes from A23 & A27 - situated within a walled & gated playground with own enclosed area Flexible sessions available Early Years Funding for eligible 2, 3 & 4 year olds For more information call us on 01273 541026 www.myfirstfriendsnursery.co.uk email: myfirstfriendsnursery@outlook.com OFSTED Registered

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are traditional, but think about other times of the day you and your child can share books, such as over breakfast, during bath time, or after pre-school. Your local library is a wonderful place to go. It’s free, always warm and dry, and full of books! As well as looking at and choosing books, many libraries have comfortable seats where you can cuddle up with your little one and read a book. If your house is noisy with other children in the evening, this is a perfect place to spend some precious time with your child. When you are reading with your child, remember that the words aren’t the main attraction for pre-schoolers. Pick out books with vibrant colours and beautiful pictures, and talk about the illustrations with your child. Ask your child to point to things in the pictures and repeat the words after you, and make a game out of it. This prepares them for the early reading stage, when she will use pictures for clues about what each page says.

Pre-schoolers are just beginning to learn the basics: that print runs left to right and top to bottom, for example, and that books have a cover and a back. Point to words as you read them and talk about a book as you read it. Even before your child can read, you can start building comprehension skills. Ask your child questions as you read such as, “What do you think this book is about?” and “What’s he doing in this picture?” Finally, don’t forget words are everywhere so read words aloud that you see on road signs, in supermarkets and in your daily routine. This shows your child that reading is important and they will also begin to recognise very common letters and words. The most important thing at this age is to make learning fun. At nursery learning will almost exclusively be through play, so keep this going at home and your child will grow up with a thirst to learn and understand the world around them. BAC

by Rebecca Welton

Is your child screaming in the night? They might be having night terrors

or parents, seeing your child have a night terror can be scary. During an episode, children wake abruptly, appear flushed and sweaty, and seem terrified and disorientated. Some run around, screaming. Most efforts to calm them down do not work, and can even make it worse. Then in the morning, your child remembers nothing about their night-time antics!

If this describes your child - donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worry, they have not been possessed! Your child is experiencing night terrors, and these are actually quite common, with around 45% of children aged between four and sixteen years experiencing an episode at some time. Thankfully, night terrors do not cause any harm to your child and most children will grow out of them. So what causes night terrors? Sleep deprivation is the

single biggest cause, and if your little one is not getting the sleep they need, they will be more prone to having night terrors. They also run in families, so if there is a family history of night terrors or sleep-walking, your children are more likely to have them too. Other causes can include fever or illness, and anxiety. Some sleep disorders can disrupt the continuity of sleep, which

Conveniently located on the way in/out of Brighton. Along the London Road, close to Preston Park train station and the Withdean Stadium. Fully qualified staff, many are parents themselves and have been with the nursery for many years. Large outdoor play area. Open from 7.30am-6pm. And most of all we are a very happy nursery! www.wonderyears.org.uk info@wonderyears.org.uk 01273 553083

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means there is a higher chance of night terrors happening. If your child regularly snores, or twitches and moves a lot in their sleep, do get it checked out by your doctor so it can be properly investigated.

Plea se se main e our on t advert h fron e inside t cov er

What can I do when my child has a night terror? As a parent it can be distressing and scary to see, but try to remember that your child will not recall it in the morning and night terrors do not cause any harm. The priority is to ensure your child is safe: so make sure they can’t get out of the house, either by doors or windows, and watch they don’t fall down the stairs. If you are worried about this, you can put alarms on the external doors, and on their bedroom door, and locks on the windows. As attempts to calm or wake your little one can often make things worse, aim to resettle them with as little interaction as possible. Once you have made sure they are safe, retreat to a corner and observe your child will settle down again and then, if needed, you can pop them back into bed.

ABC Magazine - Sussex

In the morning, your little one won’t recall the night terror, so it is important not to discuss it with them. If you do talk about it with others, make sure your child can’t overhear - as they don’t remember them, children can find talk about their night terrors confusing and this can lead to anxiety over their sleep (which, in turn, can mean that night terrors are more likely to occur!) Can I do anything to prevent night terrors? If your child is experiencing frequent night terrors, you can try anticipatory waking. To do this technique effectively you will need to wake your child every night, around twenty to thirty minutes before an episode is due this is just a short waking, with a quick resettle. This brief awakening disrupts their sleep cycle and can be quite effective in preventing night terrors. You will have to do this

nightly for at least three weeks, but it can take a few months for it to work. BAC Rebecca Welton is a qualified child sleep practitioner, and author of ‘Baby Sleeping Trust Techniques - Alternatives to Controlled Crying’. She is based in Hampshire and provides family sleep consultations, as well as sleep seminars and talks. She also blogs about baby and child sleep issues at trusttechniques.com/blog

by Kate Peach Each Peach Childcare

The wonders of

winter activities

s the summer months disappear and become a distant memory, the long winter months loom ahead of us. Although it will be different there is still a lot that we can do with our little ones during this season. “It’s not about bad weather, it’s about bad clothing”. Many of my friends and colleagues know this as one of my favourite phrases and will have heard me use it on more than one occasion! We adopt this at our nursery but I also live by it at home. I strongly believe that it is important to make the outdoors accessible to children, whatever the weather. It is usually the adults that feel the cold or get fed up with getting wet in the rain, long before our children do - normally because we have packed all the spare clothes and coats for our children and not ourselves! I am very excited

about the forthcoming winter with my beautiful new red boots (sad, I know, but another of my obsessions, well-known to my friends; boots are almost shoes aren’t they?) A few years ago I invested in a wind and waterproof jacket from one of the outlet places; a great investment and a cheap bargain. From that famous cartoon series we all know so well, Mummy

and Daddy Pig love to jump in muddy puddles so why can’t we, even with brand new shiny red wellies? My theory is, at least they clean off easily! I have amazing memories of my childhood exploring the woods near where I lived and making camps to keep dry or just squelching in the mud. Riding my bike with my siblings we had to pedal fast to keep warm. I want to create memories like

that for my children. After all, isn’t that what it’s all about? On a family trip to a park near us I remember my son, who was two at the time, almost knee deep in a muddy puddle having an amazing time, I had just been thinking, “Oh no, now the mud it's going everywhere”, but what made it special was the sound of his laughter. I cannot even begin to describe it but even as I write (continued over the page)

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ST. ANTHONY'S PRE-SCHOOL For children 21/2 - 5 years

Tamworth Road, HOVE Telephone: 772323 or 0771 809 7869 Sessions: 9am-12 noon 1pm-4pm 9am-4pm or flexible hours to suit

www.stanthonyspreschool.co.uk A happy, safe and caring environment, in which your child can grow in confidence, widen their knowledge and experience, and learn all the skills necessary for school.

Cbabiesafe wins again with the successful use of its very own APP

Cbabiesafe, as always is at the forefront of innovative nursery ideas, and is now the first nursery in the UK with its own APP! Developed by mobileappsolutions. co.uk exclusively for us it is also now being offered to other nurseries. It brings the ease of booking sessions, passing messages, checking menus and looking at the webcams plus many other features to your fingertips on Android, Iphones and other mobile devices.There is even a game to keep the little ones amused - a short cartoon with our very own characters! After opening twelve years ago as the Uk's first webcam nursery Cbabiesafe has been bringing new ideas into the world of nurseries, making nursery time as easy as possible for parents and carers. Our nurseries, recently awarded "Outstanding" by Ofsted, offer webcams, on-site chef, language classes and dance they are open fifty two weeks of the year, single session's and extended hours, (7.30am -7pm in Hove and 7.30am - 6pm in Worthing). Not only have the web cameras been a huge hit with our parents and carers but Cbabiesafe has been at the forefront for introducing extra classes to nurseries such as gardening, Spanish, French and ballet/dance. We have also now extended our age range up to the age of eight for older siblings to join in the fun during the school holidays so even more children can benefit from what we do. Children can also enjoy our fabulous gardens and our pre-school reception rooms that are especially designed to prepare children for their future days at school. For further information see advertisement on the inside back cover or to arrange a visit please phone (01273) 770441 for Hove or (01903) 215020 for Worthing.

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this it brings a smile to my face recalling it. A couple walked past and commented that it was lovely to see a child being allowed to be a child - and do you know what? Mud washes off very easily! Of course, we don’t have to get messy to have fun - another great idea is to involve nature in activities. Making bird feeders not only helps feed the birds in the winter months but can also attract them to your

garden or outdoor areas. A great website for wildlife activities and information is www. woodlandtrust.org.uk. Have you ever made a bug hotel? They are better than they sound and it ensures the bugs stay outside rather than being brought into the house by your children so they can proudly show them to you. Our children have come to expect snow on a regular basis. When I was growing up it was unusual and a big novelty.

✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷ Win fab prizes with Let’s play a game contains everything you need to play six super-fun board games. The games are boisterous, and engaging, but also help children with ﬁrst maths, coordination and matching and sorting skills. The pack is also portable, durable and features vibrant artwork. Make art with your hands and feet! is an art pad with a difference. Readers are encouraged to draw around their ﬁngers, thumbs, hands, toes or feet to complete the printed pictures. Once the images are complete the pages can then be personalised. Let's play a game (£14.95 ) and Make art with your hands and feet! (£8.95 ) are both available from all good bookshops or visit www.thamesandhudson.com We’ve teamed up with the publishers Thames and Hudson to offer 4 lucky ABC readers the chance to each win both Let's play a game and Make art with your hands and feet! For your chance of winning these two great prizes, simply tell us how many different games Let's play a game contains? Normal ABC competition rules apply and can be found on page 3.

• Safely enclosed outside learning environment • Open 8.15am - 3.45pm Monday - Friday • Registered to take children from 12 months - 4 years old Est.1982

• Well qualified and established staff team

www. birdham-preschool.co.uk office@birdham-preschool.co.uk 01243 514562 52

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Ofsted April 2014: "GOOD" “Staff thoughtfully and sensitively devote time to individual children. This increases children’s trust and supports their emotional development.” “Children eagerly join together to play because staff stimulate and motivate them.”

Free entitlement for 2, 3 & 4 year olds

While the country falls apart at the thought of a bit of snow there are some fantastic activities you can do with your children, on top of sledging or making snowmen. Think about compacting snow into old margarine tubs and tipping them out to make ice blocks which can be used to build igloos - although we have never quite managed a whole one before it gets knocked down for fun! Fill balloons with water and food dye and leave them outside in the freezing weather, then when they are solid remove the balloon and you have created colour ice balls! Powder paint or food colouring on snow brings out the artist in all of us! Of course, the winter months bring the Christmas season along with them, whatever and however you celebrate, or even if you don’t, it is lovely to make craft gifts for those we love and are close to. Cards or gifts the children create will usually be treasured for life! My mum still has the cardboard tube king that I made in junior school; it goes on the top of the tree every year, despite my protests. So from big art projects to the one-off folded bit of paper to make a card, your children will have a great experience making the gifts and friends and family will love receiving them.

the last thing we want to do on the chilly days, but it uses a lot of energy and could save a life one day! So with the evenings drawing in and a distinct chill in the air that can fill us with dread, remember it’s just another season where our children are learning, growing and changing, giving us, as parents, another chance to expand their childhood experiences. As John Steinbeck wrote,“What good is the warmth of summer without the cold of winter to give it sweetness?” BAC Kate Peach has worked in childcare for over twenty two years. With two children herself she is kept very busy but she also runs Peacharno Consulting and has recently opened her first day nursery in Hove, East Sussex. Each Peach Childcare is a beautiful setting providing exceptional childcare for babies and children up to five years old. For further information visit www.eachpeachchildcare.co.uk or call 01273 323199

Winter is an ideal time to take your children to the local pool; learning to swim is an essential skill in our household and can be done regardless of the weather outside! It might be cold for us to get in and maybe Open to children 2 to 5 years old free funding available for 2 year olds - £12 per session for non-funded places.

ActiveKids Nursery promotes an active and healthy lifestyle

Baby room and main play area Our qualified and caring staff give key person support to every child ensuring that we provide stimulating activities that are based on each child’s individual needs, likes and stages of development. Our play-based framework acknowledges that every child is unique and that they learn and develop at different rates and in different ways. Parent: "All staff are very friendly, open and great at assessing/ understanding our child." Our gym and outside play areas Unlike traditional nurseries we not only have three outdoor play areas we also have an indoor gym where children can enjoy exercise whatever the weather. Ofsted: "There are extremely good opportunities for children of all abilities to extend their physical development." Healthy eating All meals are prepared and cooked on the premises. Our menu is updated regularly using high quality seasonal ingredients and we encourage parents to bring in their children’s favourite recipes for us to put on the menu. Ofsted: "Children receive clear messages about adopting healthy lifestyles.They enjoy freshly prepared snacks and meals - these reflect individual dietary requirements."

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Earlier this year Burgess Hill School for Girls extended their Nursery provision to better meet the needs of busy families.The renamed ‘NURSERY 51’ offers an increased range of options including longer days and all year round provision. The Governors and staff of Burgess Hill School for Girls and NURSERY 51 are committed to upholding our first class reputation for providing an outstanding level of education and care in our Nursery. The children receive excellent support and individual attention that has established our pre-eminent status in the local community and beyond. NURSERY 51 operates for 51 weeks of the year from 8am to 6pm, offering full-time nursery provision for both boys and girls aged from 2.5 to 4 years. There is also an option to select a short day, from 8.30am to 3.30pm. Both long and short day options are available as part of the 51 week provision or during term-time* only. (earlier drop off and/or later pick up may be available by prior arrangement). At NURSERY 51 children in our care are encouraged to develop their skills of enquiry, creativity and critical thinking, problem-solving, reasoning and conflict resolution. They are encouraged to embrace the challenges that all new learning brings. At NURSERY 51 we strive to identify a child’s strengths, interests, preferences and development pathway so that we can respond appropriately with experiences that are

meaningful and tailored to the individual. Through an ongoing process of reflection and self-evaluation we continue to ensure we provide an outstanding level of education. At NURSERY 51 we pride ourselves in having that contagious sparkle where positive links between high quality early education and children’s healthy progress through school are evident. At NURSERY 51 we believe that a happy ‘can do’ attitude is infectious and everyone benefits.

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More classroom based activities follow before heading off to lunch. This is served by the nursery staff in the school dining room for the older nursery children, whilst the younger ones eat in the Nursery building. The children are served a hot nutritious meal together with a choice of dessert. The afternoon begins with a little post lunch rest followed by an assortment of more educational activities and fun! Busy children require plenty of fuel so it is snack time again.

A typical day at NURSERY 51 - we begin our day with a hearty breakfast together in the dining room. Then it is on to classrooms for numerous educational activities and fun. The vibrant environment buzzes with the sound of happy enthusiastic and motivated young children. During group time the daily helper is allocated, a very sought-after position indeed! The topic focus is discussed, we talk about the day’s weather and do the weather board, along with some singing. By this time the children have built up an appetite for a mid-morning

snack supplied by our school catering team. Then it is outside for activities in our extensive outdoor area. Or off on a walk around the school grounds.

More business in the playground and classroom activities. We conclude with a storytime for those going home at 3.30pm. Then it is on to afternoon tea, again in the dining room, prepared by our committed catering team.

When you visit NURSERY 51, you will find a vibrant environment which buzzes with the sound of happy, enthusiastic and motivated young children. We invite you to come and see us during our next Open Morning on Tuesday 11th November 2014 from 10.45am to 12noon. Alternatively please call NURSERY 51 to make a private appointment on 01444 237008. Please log onto our website for further details www.nursery51.com. "As soon as I came to look around the Nursery I instinctively knew this was the Nursery for my son with its safe, friendly and warm environment. I knew he would settle immediately. The Nursery exceeds all my expectations." Parent 2014 "The structure and routine are fabulous and the way children are engaged with is brilliant. Children have an amazing advantage when starting school as they are so well-prepared." Parent 2014 * Term-time falling in line with Burgess Hill School for Girls’ term-time.

If children are feeling a little tired then they can opt for quieter activities but if they are still full of fun and energy then there are plenty of activities for them to enjoy.

NURSERY 51 Burgess Hill School for Girls, Keymer Road, Burgess Hill, West Sussex RH15 0EG 01444 241050 www.nursery51.com

ABC Magazine - Sussex

by Sue Atkins author of 'Raising Happy Children for Dummies'

Learning about

independence

rom the moment you play peek-aboo with your baby, you are preparing them for the process of moving away from you and learning about independence. Separation can be a difficult emotion not only for you as a parent, but also for your child. As your children mature and gain in confidence, they grow into independent beings and it is important that you prepare them to fly the nest one day.

Deepdene NURSERY

Traditional, Caring, Nursery and Pre-Prep. Education It’s official! DEEPDENE SCHOOL AND NURSERY (6 months - 11 years) are OUTSTANDING IN ALL CATEGORIES OFSTED 2013 “All children make exceptional progress in their learning” “Staff really care about their children” “Leadership and management of the school and nursery are outstanding” Open 8 am - 6 pm, 48 weeks of the year Family Room - 6 months - 2 years Lower Nursery - 2 - 3 years Upper Nursery - 3 - 4 years Prep - 4 - 11 years Even our toddlers enjoy specialist music and French sessions! Government funding for 3 and 4 year olds accepted

Deepdene School, 195 New Church Road, Hove, East Sussex BN3 4ED Tel: 01273 418984 - www.deepdeneschool.com - info@deepdeneschool.com 56

ABC Magazine - Sussex

During infancy, a baby clings to School is a place beyond your you when a stranger approaches; control so of course it can in early chilhood children often appear stressful and unfamiliar fear new and unfamiliar to your child,regardless of situations; and as their age. children grow Children and develop It is also where learn to they worry children perform in a way about social learn about acceptance, themselves: they never have to school their strengths, at home and they performance weaknesses, learn that they or finding a interests and are unique... group that they how they relate can fit into. to others socially. Children learn to These are all normal reactions perform in a way they never to life, but what if your child have to at home and they learn suddenly starts to get headaches, that they are unique, different tummy aches or has nightmares and separate from you. So, about going to school? school can appear fun and exciting but also rather daunting School is a place away from and stressful. There are new home where your child will have expectations placed on them some of their greatest successes, whether it is starting school for challenges, failures and the very first time or starting embarrassments. It is at school secondary school. that your child learns about how the world works and meets Starting school can be an and interacts with people from exciting new adventure or a outside your family, perhaps for terrifying nerve-racking, nailthe first time. (continued over the page)

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biting experience. This may depend on a number of factors. A child who has attended a nursery, or a mother and toddler group may feel more at ease with the new situation as they are used to and more comfortable with, the daily ritual of separation. I remember my son Will walking up the path to his nursery on the first day and striding in confidently to play with the jigsaws. It was me who had to fight back the tears and the strange feeling of rejection, as he didn't seem that bothered to see me go! (But we had been going to the Mother and Toddler afternoons throughout the summer to get him used to the BIG DAY!) It can also depend on your child's character, their ability to handle change or whether their friends are going to be joining them. I really believe your attitude is of vital importance to this 'Big Day' moment. If you appear nervous, anxious, worried, over-protective or guilty your child notices your tension and will react to it with anxiety, reluctance and hesitancy. So, prepare yourself for the 'Big Day' by being interested, supportive, and encouraging.

Positive parenting pointers • Talk to your child about what to expect - the activities, the snacks, milk-time, story time or quiet time, the routines, the toys and the noise of other children. • Take your child to the nursery or school to get the feel of the place and to get used to the lay out or the journey. With younger children, the place where they go to the toilet or hang their coat is of great importance to them and can really help them relax during their early days in a new environment. • Let your younger child know that it's perfectly normal to feel nervous and worried about being away from you for a little while and get them to think of a familiar object or toy they could bring in with them for a short while until they get used to the changes. • Find a 'buddy' or special friend who your child could go in with for the first few days. • Make the school ritual relaxed by laying out the school clothes or making the sandwiches the night before and getting your child involved in helping with the process. It helps take away some of the anxiety and is an opportunity for listening and chatting through little or big niggles. BAC Sue Atkins is a parenting expert who offers practical guidance for bringing up happy, confident, well behaved children. She is also the author of Raising Happy Children for Dummies'.

...don’t forget to say where you saw it!

ABC Magazine - Sussex

They came, they saw, they taught...

ixth formers at Brighton College are teaching local primary school children Latin in a bid to show them how learning it can help with understanding their own and many other European languages.

Children from Somerhill Junior, Stanford, Westdene Primary and Middle Street schools attend a free classics club, which is held at the College each Wednesday. Brighton College classics teacher Olivia Upchurch came up with the idea for the club, which also teaches the children about Roman life and mythology. Ms Upchurch set up a similar club in London some years ago and said the idea was all about opening up new horizons to children who might never have come across the language in their education otherwise. She explained: “This is an exciting opportunity for the kids not only to learn Latin, but to engage more widely with the classical world - hopefully they will learn lots about Roman life in Britain and Roman mythology. It is the key to deciphering many modern European languages, and makes those who study it more articulate speakers of English. The linguistic element of the club is a brilliant way to stretch and challenge children, and give them a different perspective on their school curriculum.” She added: “I wanted to set the club up because I think as many people as possible should have access to Latin - you never know, it might actually spark a lifelong interest!” The club attracted such a strong response from local parents that Ms Upchurch plans to run a second intake in January. She said: "I think the parents see the opportunities that Latin will present to their child, and many parents just want to give their child the chance to try as many different things as possible.” www.brightoncollege.net

ABC Magazine - Sussex

"What’s the time, Mr Wolf?" "28 past something!" cried Mr Wolf dejectedly for he knows he’s not going to get what he wants until he can tell the time and for a wolf - this is a big ask.

A big ask too for hundreds of children up and down the country struggling to read time on a clock or watch. It’s a frustrating subject to learn and equally frustrating to teach, as parents can confirm. What a pity! For telling the time is one of the first adult skills a child can master and being able to do it gives a young child such confidence. In the current National Curriculum, Time has been pushed to the bottom of the pile so, if you want your child to learn early and be on time - and once counting to twelve they’re ready - it’s a skill probably best taught at home. But why, in the 21st century do we remain stuck with the same lengthy, illogical learning curve that our parents and grandparents had to suffer? Where is the 21st century’s answer to learning to tell time - a simple logical approach that children can quickly understand? After all, there have been giant leaps in other areas of primary education so why not telling the time, a skill every child will use throughout the remainder of their life? Long overdue, at long last a new child-friendly approach to learning the time has arrived and it’s for the home or the classroom. It is called Aramazu and children love it. With two starting points - counting to twelve or counting to sixty - some are learning in a week, some in a day and quite a number in just an hour! Aramazu uses logic children understand in illustrated stories that are fun to read alone or together. Be prepared - it is completely different from how we learned to tell the time, but is really doing the job. So when you find Aramazu, tell your friends and if you see him, tell Mr Wolf too! www.aramazu.com

The benefits of mid-morning milk

housands of primary age children are benefiting from a new initiative in schools designed to show where milk comes from and how drinking milk can help improve their concentration, memory and school performance.

Research by the British Nutrition Foundation released last year revealed that almost a third of primary school children thought that cheese came from plants and almost one in five under elevens thought that chicken was the main ingredient in fish fingers. In order to improve children’s understanding of foods and drink in line with the objectives of the School Food Plan, due to be launched in September, Cool Milk has introduced the Cool Milk Show. The Cool Milk Show is an entertaining and educational assembly package of fun, interactive games, songs and 60

ABC Magazine - Sussex

puzzles following the adventures of ‘Milkman’ and ‘our kid’ as they discover where milk comes from and why it’s good for us. Starting in a muddy field with a trapped cow, they follow the journey of milk from cow to classroom. The initiative is being launched in schools across the country with the endorsement of GP and Breakfast TV Health Editor Dr Hilary Jones, who said: “The Cool Milk Show helps children to understand the benefits of milk and where it comes from. Milk gives children an energy boost in a way that does not harm teeth and aids concentration, memory and creativity in class.”

Participating schools received a free DVD, two free lesson plans written by the Children’s Food Trust, and free milk for all children attending the assembly. As a reminder of the Cool Milk Show children got to take home a short story by the awardwinning author Caryl Hart, a quiz and some stickers. The Cool Milk Show was developed by Cool Milk. It gives a further boost to the UK Government’s free milk programme for nursery and primary school children up to the age of five years old. Dr Patricia Mucavele, Children’s Food Trust, says: “Just a 189ml

portion of semi-skimmed milk (a third of a pint) provides children aged between four and six years with over 50% of their calcium needs and over 30% of their protein daily requirements, which aid healthy bones, growth and development.” (Source: Department of Health, Dietary Reference Values for Food Energy and Nutrients for the UK, HMSO 1991) For further information about Cool Milk see www.coolmilk.com or to learn more about the Cool Milk Show visit www.coolmilk.com/ coolmilkshow

Empathy

by Sarah Thomas Lewes New School

Our greatest teacher?

here is a quiet revolution taking place. While stories of violence, cruelty and inequality play out each day on our TV screens, there is a gentle uprising of hope. Politicians and business leaders, neuroscientists and philosophers, educators and economists are converging on a simple idea when it comes to building a more peaceful world, empathy matters. Barack Obama has long believed that the ‘empathy deficit’ is a more pressing problem than the federal one, and now Ed Miliband is taking empathy lessons from a Cambridge academic. But the cultivation of empathy goes beyond political rhetoric - it could build a more caring, compassionate and cohesive world.

Why empathy? In his book, Empathy: A Handbook for Revolution, Roman Krznaric tells us that empathy is ‘the art of stepping imaginatively into the shoes of another

person, understanding their feelings and ...empathy perspectives, goes beyond and using that political rhetoric understanding - it could build to guide your a more caring, actions.’ compassionate When we are and cohesive empathic we world. not only notice and understand

each other’s feelings, we also care about them, and act accordingly. Understood in this way, empathy is potentially not only about individual relationships - it is a collective force that can impact on all our social and political landscapes and transform our communities. (continued over the page)

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Empathy, to a degree, comes naturally. Despite the individualistic human qualities so often portrayed in popular culture, scientists agree that 98% of us have an ‘empathycircuit’ wired into our brains. From around two years of age most of us can begin to see that other people have needs or feelings that are different from our own. But we are generally more inclined to feel empathy for

people we feel are similar to us. In a world defined by connectivity and change we no longer live alongside people who look, speak or think the same as us. To build stronger local and global communities we need to work on our ability to empathise with those with different backgrounds or beliefs. Author Jeremy Rifkin believes “Empathy is the soul of democracy.” If we can empathise we can communicate, collaborate and innovate

together, informed by a deep understanding and mutual respect of our fellow human beings. Teaching empathy in schools Krznaric suggests that “Empathy will most likely flower on a collective scale if its seeds are planted in our children”. We know that children take cues from the people around them when it comes to learning to notice and care about each other so, outside of family life, education has a significant role to play. The idea of bringing empathy to education isn’t new - humanistic psychologist Carl Rogers talked of it in the 1960s - and there is a strong body of evidence linking the development of empathic skills with academic success. But with a national education system intent on prioritizing that which can be measured and compared, it can be difficult for schools to give the teaching of

relational skills the time and attention they deserve. One thing that all teachers can do is to seize every opportunity to explore and experience what empathy is and why it matters. Reading stories, researching projects, discussing global situations or playground conflicts can all provide a moment to reflect on how others may be feeling, or for challenging prejudice and discovering commonalities. Daily ‘Circle Time’ can provide a regular opportunity for children to share personal experiences while drama and role-play encourage children to take another person’s perspective. Adopting restorative justice and peer mediation practices when conflicts arise will all help build a culture of empathy in school.

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ABC Magazine - Sussex

Some schools go further by introducing pioneering programmes such as 'Roots of Empathy' or 'Circles for Learning' into class. These remarkable projects involve bringing a parent and baby into the classroom for an hour each month. Children interact with the baby, witnessing their developmental milestones and leaps in learning, and observe the bond that grows with their parent. The baby is the teacher, and the impact has proven to be profound in enhancing children’s understanding of the learning process, developing emotional intelligence and reducing bullying. Towards an empathic model of education For children to fully appreciate the power of empathy, they need to experience it - from both points of view. An empathic school puts warm relationships and mutually respectful communication between staff, children and parents at the heart. It encourages children

to think for themselves and everyone’s needs are met. but is vital for strengthening develop and express their Children who feel that their relationships and building a point of view, while point of view is heard and strong empathic bond. encouraging an valued get better at openness to and articulating their Paying attention to how we ...how we appreciation of feelings, better communicate can transform that of others. at listening, our capacity for empathy and communicate It involves better at sow the seeds of empathy in our can transform our children in regulating children. Empathy can teach capacity for empathy defining their us to step outside of ourselves and sow the seeds clear emotions and discover the lives of other of empathy in our boundaries and better at people. It can help us to become of behaviour learning. more curious, creative thinkers, children. so that everyone to form better relationships, to feels safe. Just as important feel more fulfilled and ultimately as listening to others to transform our world. In At the foundation of an is being open ourselves. schools, as in life, empathy does empathic experience of Striving for personal integrity indeed matter. BAC education is a radical shift and authenticity - dropping in communication. Thomas contrived roles of ‘teacher’, Sarah Thomas is a parent at Lewes New School, an independent Gordon’s Parent/ Teacher ‘parent’ and ‘pupil’ and primary school committed Effectiveness Training and engaging with each person as to teaching empathy and Non-Violent Communication a fellow human being - takes empathic communication. provide learnable tools that courage and self-awareness, can be adopted by schools and “There is an unexpected magnificence in our children and an parents. The key is to practise underestimated power in their ability to change our world for the better. and model the art of active, It is through our children that we can go beyond the frontiers of science reflective listening, being careful and technology to explore the recesses of the human heart. We have to understand and respond to managed to harness the power of the wind, the sun and the water, but what a person is really saying have yet to appreciate the power of our children to effect social change.” (verbally and non-verbally) Mary Gordon, founder of the Roots of Empathy with the intention of ensuring

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Understanding

yslexia is a general term for disorders that involve difficulty in learning to read or interpret words, letters and other symbols but does not affect intelligence.

Accompanying weaknesses may be identified in areas of speed of processing, short-term memory, organisation, sequencing, spoken language and motor skills. There may be difficulties with auditory and/or visual perception. It is particularly related to mastering and using written language, which may include alphabetic, numeric and musical notation. Statistics also show the percentages of the possibility of inheriting dyslexia if one parent also suffers with dyslexia. It has been found that a dyslexic father has a 50% chance of having a dyslexic son and a 20% chance of having a dyslexic daughter. Both of these statistics are very high and are seen to be one of the main factors which continue the progression and development of dyslexia within the twenty-first century. Literacy and its contributing sub-skills, as well as cognitive and processing components need to be adequately taught alongside appropriate transferable skills. Literacy skills and the

comprehension of text can be enhanced by the utilization of structured thinking skills and acknowledgement of the preferred learning style. Thinking skills can be developed in the dyslexic learner and this can in turn improve their language capacity as well as their own personal selfconfidence. Teaching programmes for those with Specific Learning Difficulties requires a learning programme which facilitates the following elements: structure, sequential, cumulative and thorough. Structured - specific elements which combine and contribute to the whole. Sequential - a progressive introduction to one element after completion of the previous - e.g. phonemes and graphemes. Cumulative - one stage following on from the previously taught one and no stage being studied in isolation. Thorough - each stage in the sequence must be fully understood by the student before moving on to the next

dyslexia

by Anna Treby Mitchells Dyslexia Facility

one. Teaching within the classroom often means that this process is not adhered to as it is driven by the majorityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability and time constraints, and therefore the dyslexic student can fall short in this area as they are not learning effectively. Specialist intervention on a one-to-one basis will remedy this and ensure that a thorough programme of teaching and learning is implemented which will benefit the individual in the long-term. Multi-sensory learning is seen to be the best intervention for many individuals with dyslexia or other similar learning difficulties. It is essential to always remember that each student is a unique individual, with their own strengths and weaknesses and that the teaching, and subsequent intervention, will have to identify and address these areas to meet the required aims and objectives.

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ABC Magazine - Sussex

The multi-sensory approach gets the individual to use many of their senses - ears, eyes and hands-on. For early learners the physical movement of copying letter shapes onto the page or through the use of magnetic letters on a board to create words can also stimulate the individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brain, and so aid effective learning. Mitchells Dyslexia Facility offers one-toone Specialist Intervention to students of all ages and abilities through a multi-sensory approach and this is found to be the most effective way of learning. Get in touch to find out more and to book your sessions, we are available: after school, evenings and weekends. Contact me: mitchellanna58@gmail.com

Dyslexia matters Dyslexia Awareness Week runs from 3rd-9th November and is an annual event that aims at not just raising awareness, but also showcasing the amazing achievements that people with dyslexia have made. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s theme is 'Dyslexia Matters' and will cover everything from creating a dyslexia friendly environment, supporting and encouraging those with dyslexia, and the ongoing campaign to include dyslexia awareness in initial teacher training. If you or anyone in your family is dyslexic you can find out more and download resources at www.bdadyslexia.org.uk

What is worth learning in school?

by Dr Ian Cunningham Self Managed Learning College

here is currently a debate in educational circles about whether it is more important for children to learn facts or to learn skills. This either/or thinking - where it has to be one or the other - does not make sense to me. So it is worth considering what is important to learn in education. The first issue, then, is - is drama or music or sports then education aimed at learning it is about doing things. It is about things (facts) or about skills. One problem learning how to do is that such activity things (skills)? can get labelled as If a child is It is linked to extra-curricular ideas about - meaning that to learn art or the difference it is not part dance or drama or between music or sports then of the proper education curriculum - it it is about doing and training. is outside it things. It is about A simple and therefore skills... distinction is of less value. We exemplified by the know, for instance, following; You are a that what is assessed parent and your daughter comes (via SATs) at the end of primary home and says "We had sex education is largely knowledge education today at school." You and fact-based featuring only are likely, if you are a liberal English, maths and science. modern parent, to be very Nothing else counts in judging approving of this. However, if a child within this system. she comes home and says "We had sex training at school today" A major problem seems to be your response is likely to be the lack of joined-up thinking different. It is a crude way of and action at a national level distinguishing education and with the narrow thinking of training. And some would the Department for Education argue, therefore, that just not being linked to the work of learning about things without other Government departments. learning how to do things is For instance, the Office of fine as employers will do the National Statistics is tasked with training. looking at well-being among young people and the worrying But this cannot be the answer. If statistics about obesity are now a child is to learn art or dance or well known. However, other factors are less well known. One example is that in 2012 suicide overtook traffic accidents as the major cause of

death in sixteen to twenty four year olds in England and Wales. The Office of National Statistics comments that "Suicide rates can be used as an indicator of acute mental health problems". Acute (and also less acute) mental health problems have clearly increased among children. These wider problems should be recognised and addressed by schools. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s take another example from the Department for Culture,

Media and Sportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s statistics of June 2014. "Total Creative Economy employment across the UK has increased from 2.4 million in 2011, to 2.6 million jobs in 2013, an 8.8% increase. This increase compares with a 2.4% increase in the total number of jobs in the wider UK economy over the same period." The relevance of this for education is that the creative

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Email: ian@csml.org.uk

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economy is the major area of economic growth and of jobs. So it should be a priority of schools to support creative learning. But we have seen the opposite trend with artists, musicians and others complaining bitterly of the increasing neglect of this aspect of education. And creativity is not just an issue in the apparently creative subjects. For instance, successful scientists show how a creative approach to their work is crucial. An example of this can be found in studies of Nobel Prize winners going back to the 1920s. A psychologist called Terman selected thousands of high IQ young people for a major study in the USA. He hoped to identify successful people such as potential Nobel

Prize winners. Interestingly, good practice has been found none of his very carefully to be necessary to be good at selected children made it to that playing an instrument. This level in adulthood. However, research has been replicated in two children he rejected did other areas such as sport. gain Nobel Prizes in science; they were the creative What can be missed ones. from this is an In exploration of suggesting In suggesting why children the importance the importance might not of creativity I of creativity undertake I am not such practice. am not arguing arguing for A couple of for neglecting neglecting examples from other kinds of other kinds of our College learning. learning. Learning might help here. needs to be holistic We have had children and integrated. For come to us having been instance, if someone wants to told that they are no good at be good at something they will music. Our approach is not to learn facts and skills but they take such negative assessments will also need the motivation at face value. One boy had to learn. The major research tried the cello and been told studies have been in areas such to give up by his teacher as he as music where 10,000 hours of had no aptitude for music. On coming to us we gave him the chance just to mess about with instruments like the guitar and then learn some basic chords as he showed interest. By the time he left us he had learned (to varying degrees) to play five instruments and is now doing a music degree.

Parents lack

financial education

inancial education is now part of the National Curriculum, but for some parents it seems that it is a generation too late. goHenry - the family banking tool, has undertaken research that reveals 27% of parents did not have a financial role model whilst growing up, 29% were frivolous or enjoyed spending their money and only 8% of parents admitted to being savers.

“Our research, along with the fact that over half of UK adults are struggling to keep up with debts and repayments, suggests that many people are lacking essential money management skills,” says Louise Hill, COO of goHenry. “Money habits can be formed by as young as seven and it’s likely that those who don’t learn how to use money responsibly as a child will grow up possessing limited financial skills themselves,” adds Louise. “Good role models who equip their children with the knowledge of how to earn, save and spend responsibly are hugely important in the learning process when it comes to money management. It’s essential that parents look at ways to empower their children and engage them in discussions about money.” The survey also found that whilst parents considered reading and writing 'very important' skills for children to be taught, only 57.6% of parents rated budgeting skills as of similar importance. 66

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Another example would be in the visual arts. Tim came to us aged fourteen after four years out of school and doubts about his future. We noticed that he was drawing a lot and encouraged him to develop a portfolio of work. Having done this he gained a place at a local further education college. The college recognised that he had learned how to manage his own learning so was likely to flourish in their environment. This proved true as he gained the prize for the best student. Tim went on to university taking a degree in illustrating. After leaving in 2010 he was awarded ‘Best New Blood’ in the National Design Awards and his work for Guys Hospital won the award for ‘Best Use of Visual Art in Healthcare’. His current work is as a self-employed illustrator where his clients included New Scientist, Nike, Vodaphone and many other household names. My case, then, is that education needs to be about supporting children in the breadth of their learning. They need to learn to take charge of their own lives (as this is linked to good mental health) and to take their learning wherever it leads them. The division of school learning into subject compartments hinders real inclusive holistic learning and the fact/skills divide makes no sense at all. BAC Dr Ian Cunningham Self Managed Learning College, Brighton www.college.selfmanagedlearning.org 01273 703691 or270995

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Elective learning in Sussex It’s not quite what it seems...

itting in our forever home and looking out of the window, the morning mist rises over the vista of the South Downs National Park, revealing the leaves turning.

As their shades of vibrant rustic colours appear we are reminded that autumn heralds a time of harvest, of gathering and nurturing; preparing to hunker down for those colder months when winter comes. For many, it also heralds the new school year; new stationery, new lessons, seeing friends again after a long summer absence. However, for some it is an anxious time of separation, of disappearing in the crowded class of thirty after thriving over weeks of learning at our kitchen table. We are extremely lucky in the UK that we can elect to choose our child’s learning environment. When allowed to thrive, children are sponges, unfettered by limited time and expected outcomes, they can enjoy the process of learning simply for the joy of it. Remember how many times over those warm summer months we clapped, smiled

and hugged when they ran in from the garden with a new stick sculpture or worm mud pie? Cheered at the beach when they jumped over the lapping wave triumphantly, smiled encouragingly without complaint at the presentation of sandy treasures of seashells and pebbles emptied ceremoniously all over our carpet with glee? Then all too suddenly it’s term-time. Our children love to learn alongside us, knowing we’ve taken time to consider their needs; academic, physical, emotional and spiritual. The staff at ÉtudEO Holistic Learning Centre know and love their subjects and that’s how they work with our children. September was the beginning of our 'Living History' days starting with Roman times tying in with our fabulous main lesson sessions which include scenes from the legends of the Roman gods, the planets and building a giant catapult. It was exciting to start our new theme of Peter Pan where we are exploring the gorgeous delights of JM Barrie’s classic; evolving maths in nature within the stars.

Next summer our camp out week will be a dig with our Archaeology teachers to find Stane Street in our grounds; dig up a section, process it and catalogue the findings with the local community.

The children elect to come to us for whichever subjects they would like to explore. Developing a lifelong love of learning allows our

children to use learning as a tool to achieve whatever they want in life. This autumn we started our journey with A Levels in maths, physics, further maths and English in small group sessions. We continue our path of iGCSES, chosen by request. This deeper study of subjects allows our children to explore and extend their knowledge, with participation in a formal qualification.

spark of understanding, the joy to be found in learning. Shouldn’t all children have that chance?

Gazing at the the vast expanse of forest reflecting our seasons triggers a memory of that first

To nurture and inspire a lifelong love of learning in your child, encouraging curiosity and conﬁdence, set within thirty two acres of the gorgeous South Downs ÉtudEO offers small group, progressive learning with degree qualiﬁed staff, using a gentle nurturing approach with guidance and approval, from kindergarten sessions, forest school and adventure days - right through early reading and writing skills, maths, humanities, home skills and the arts, to outings and specialist days such as our popular new Timeless Learning Curve days and Cambridge iGCSE (plus A levels starting in September 2014)

For more information, an informal chat or to arrange a visit please go to our website www.etudeo.org.uk or email info@etudeo.org.uk ABC Magazine - Sussex

The dilemma of hiring

a safe private tutor

by Fleet Tutors www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

espite the fact that one in four families in the UK employs private tutors for their children, tutoring is still largely an unregulated ‘industry’. This means that unlike schoolteachers, private tutors are not obliged to have a Disclosure and Barring Service check or even a university degree to teach. According to Mylène Curtis, Managing Director of Fleet Tutors, “if parents choose to hire a tutor directly rather than through an agency, they face a myriad of checks they will need to understand and undertake on their own.” Types of checks to undertake in hiring a private tutor A reputable and professional agency will perform these checks for the client, but what exactly are all these checks and do they really count? • Police check This will have ‘National Identification Service’ at the top of the form and only discloses convictions in a local area. This check is insufficient for working with children. • Standard Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check This check is performed by ‘The Disclosure and Barring Service’. Applicant details are matched against those held on the Police National Computer and will identify any criminal convictions. This also checks if the person is on the DBS barred list. This check is for people who work around children, but not sufficient for people who work in direct contact with children, such as tutors. • DBS barred list A list of convicted sex offenders and people permanently excluded from working in schools - maintained by the Disclosure and Barring Service. • Enhanced DBS check This is the most thorough and comprehensive check available and is designed for people in direct contact with children 68

ABC Magazine - Sussex

kept up to date by ensuring it is such as teachers or tutors. This renewed every three years. is the only check that queries the national police database Entrusting your private and barred list, as well as the tutor needs in safe hands local police departments as Parents should be aware of the an important additional step. administration process behind This check reveals any criminal hiring a self-employed convictions, allegations independent tutor or cautions Ask rather than which make whether the one through the applicant agency requires a reputable unsuitable for the tutors to have agency. work with degrees in the Reputable and children. In the subjects they teach established local searches, and/or teaching agencies will police are also certificates. screen enhanced asked to reveal DBSs for additional any ‘additional information - a major information’ which reason why finding a tutor may make the tutor unsuitable through an agency is a safer for work with children. For example if a tutor is undergoing option. a current investigation, the How do parents ensure ‘additional information’ in the the agency is reputable, enhanced disclosure will reveal especially as agencies are it to the agency but not to the unregulated? tutor themselves. 1. Choose an agency which is a Validity of checks DBS registered body. A reputable company should 2. Choose an established require that DBS checks are agency/tutoring company

that has an address, telephone number and staff - more than just a website. Speak with their staff before allowing any tutor into your home. 3. Confirm that the agency requires ‘enhanced’ DBS’s of their tutors. 4. Ask whether the agency requires the tutors to have degrees in the subjects they teach and/or teaching certificates. 5. Does the agency check references? 6. Are the tutors interviewed? 7. Are the tutors qualified and experienced? Ideally, qualified tutors have a degree in the subject/s they teach (recommend ‘2:1’ minimum level) and/or teaching certificates. They should have successful experience in teaching one-to-one. The decision factor Despite all these precautions, it is important that parents resist paranoia. Finding a qualified and experienced tutor through an established agency is an investment worth making in your child’s future. Using an agency that is able to do the legwork for you by conducting these checks will go a long way in alleviating any burden associated with hiring a private tutor. Fleet Tutors, DBS Registered Body 20528800006, is Britain’s leading tutoring service provider with over 5,000 tutors and 36 years experience helping students reach their potential. For more information, visit www.fleettutors.co.uk telephone 0845 644 5452

Why do parents choose

an independent education?

by Ruth Thorogate www.truthmarketing.co.uk

ith average annual day fees in the south east of England often topping £12,000 and boarding fees in excess of £25,000, educating your child in an independent school is a huge financial commitment. But significant numbers of parents are still digging deep to find the money to pay fees and, in surveys, over 50% of parents say if they could, they would choose to go private. But why do, and indeed why would, so many parents opt to send their child to an independent school? The most popular reason given is “better standards of education”. Results at GCSE and A Level are higher in the independent sector and although that does not mean children do not do well in state schools, when you

also look at grades Levels taken by But achieved in harder independent why do, subjects such as school students and indeed why mathematics achieve the top A* or and science, would, so many A Grades, students at parents opt to send private schools compared their child to an score a greater to a national independent average of 26%. proportion school? At GCSE, 60% of top grades. of independent Over 51% of A

school exam entries score A* or A Grades, two-and-a-half times more than the national average of 23%. In pre-prep or independent junior schools, the curriculum on offer is often much broader and richer than you might find in the average primary school. (continued over the page)

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Languages are started at a young age, sometimes even from nursery or reception classes and subjects such as PE, music and ICT are often taught by subject specialists not the class teacher. By the age of eight, specialist teaching is introduced in science and the arts. At senior schools, you may well find a choice is offered between A Levels, the

International Baccalaureate or the Cambridge Pre-U when they reach the Sixth Form. Another reason why parents choose independent schools are the smaller class sizes. Recent news stories have focussed on increasing numbers of children in state primaries being taught in classes of over thirty children. Prep school classes are more

There are some likely to be around practical reasons eighteen to twenty Prep school why parents pupils in size, classes are more opt for an allowing each independent child more likely to be around school. one-to-one eighteen to twenty Boarding time with pupils in size, allowing schools their teacher. each child more oneincreasingly In senior to-one time with offer great schools, classes their teacher. flexibility in how are larger but often or regularly teaching often takes children stay overnight place in smaller groups, at school from those that stay usually with some streaming in every week and some weekends core subjects so that teachers can plan and deliver lessons at a to those who do so occasionally when parents have work or particular level. other commitments. Many day schools also offer before Independent schools are seen and after school care, allowing as providing a good solid parents to drop off and pick up preparation for university children on their way to and and employment, with key from work. Some schools run skills such as teamwork and extensive bus and coach routes public speaking developed which then free parents from through an extensive range the dreaded school run. Other of extra-curricular activities. schools even run holiday activity These opportunities, which courses to ease the burden of complement the academic curriculum, include competitive finding childcare during the school vacations. and fun sports, drama, individual and group musical Whilst the perceived benefits activities, clubs and societies. With so much on offer, it is not of an independent education are compelling, the most surprising many parents feel important thing to remember that an independent school is best equipped to help fulfil their when choosing a school is will your child be happy there? child’s potential, whatever their Results, facilities, activities interests and strengths. and opportunities on offer are meaningless if it is not the right environment for your son ...what or daughter to thrive in and Sussex succeed. BAC

parents really read!

Ruth provides a range of marketing services for independent schools and educational advisory services for families and businesses.

Changes to National Curriculum

rom September, a new National Curriculum has been taught in schools across England. However, research from tuition provider, Explore Learning, has revealed that 62% of parents in England are totally unaware of the changes, suggesting they will be ill-prepared to help their child with their studies and support them in their development.

The research of 1,000 UK-based parents, also found that nearly threequarters (72%) of parents in the UK worry that British children aren’t leading the field in standards of education. Carey Ann Dodah, Head of Curriculum at Explore Learning says: “The new curriculum is a response to the feeling that England is slipping behind their international competitors and so there are some drastic changes which for most children and parents will appear more challenging. Many concepts in maths and English will be introduced earlier which will feel like quite a jump.” Carey Ann continues: “While the changes to the curriculum are well intended, the implementation is messy and the lack of money or additional time for teaching training or resource development could be troublesome. Transitioning schools to a new curriculum without a clear method of assessment or levelling is confusing at best, and at

ABC Magazine - Sussex

worst, will leave schools and teachers frustrated and disillusioned with the new system.” Carey Ann concludes: “There is a definite need for change and as the demands on the UK workforce develop, it’s important that there is a focus on the skills needed in the future. However, parents must always remain a partner with schools in their child’s education and in this respect the lack of information made available to parents about the new curriculum is worrying.” It is expected to take a few years for schools to really assess how effective the new curriculum will be. Any parents that feel unsure should attend information sessions held by their school, check out the government website (www.gov.uk/government/collections/national-curriculum) or ask for advice from their local Explore Learning centre.

Choosing a new school

n the current climate, buying a house, and investing in your child’s education, are probably two of the most expensive purchases you will make. Louise Higson, Headmistress at Farlington, offers some practical advice which you may like to consider when looking for a school for your child.

Research is vital; a local publication and website such as ABC Magazine (www.abcmag. co.uk) is a great place to start as the Internet is a valuable source in the first instance and, by looking in detail at different school websites, you can begin to build a picture of whether a particular school is right for you. Telephone the school and ask to speak to the Registrar in the Admissions Office who should be able to give you detailed information about the school’s admission policies, when Entrance Exams

take place, or indeed, if there of potential schools which you are opportunities to apply would like to visit. It is also for Scholarships. The prudent to check that Registrar should the logistics are also be able practical, both in When you to send you terms of the fees visit, make sure a copy of and how your you are offered a the School’s child will travel tour of the school, Prospectus to school. ideally with one or which, in two of the existing conjunction Visiting the pupils. with the school is crucial website, will - what are your provide a greater first impressions? Are insight into your chosen the buildings and grounds schools. At this point it would well-maintained? Does the Head be sensible to create a shortlist meet you personally? Are the

staff friendly and welcoming? What are the pupils like - do they smile, say hello, are they engaged in their lessons? When you visit, make sure you are offered a tour of the school, ideally with one or two of the existing pupils. If possible start your tour with the year group where your child is currently, and make a comparison between their current school and what is on offer. Work your way around the campus and up through the year groups making sure you concentrate not only (continued over the page)

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on the academia, but also all those activities which enrich the curriculum, such as sport, music, drama and art. Ask what the school offers by way of clubs and extra-curricular activities, and are these included within the fees? Don’t be afraid to ask any questions you may have about the school. Choosing a school is very similar to buying a house; you will have certain basic criteria but often, assuming those criteria are met,

it comes down to how a school Ultimately your decision will be ‘feels’. I suggest you based on what is right ask for a couple for your child as an of taster days individual. At the ...ask for so that your right school they a couple of child has the will feel happy, taster days so that opportunity successful and your child has the to spend time confident to opportunity to spend with their pursue their time with their peer group, ambitions. BAC peer group... experience Farlington is an lessons and get a outstanding independent true impression of girls' day and boarding school whether the school suits near Horsham for girls aged 3-18 with them. a co-educational nursery. www.farlingtonschool.net

At Our Lady of Sion School, your child’s future is of paramount importance to us. Our school motto is ‘Consideration Always’ and we encourage our staff and students to apply this whilst at school, and when outside engaging with the wider community. We are an inclusive co-educational school providing an all-round education in a caring family community. Our school is situated in the heart of Worthing town centre, allowing easy access for students, and in close proximity to local sports and leisure facilities, of which the school takes full advantage. The school admits boys and girls from Nursery through to Sixth-Form (3-19 years of age) and they are encouraged to enjoy Music, Drama and Sport as well as joining in with our extensive programme of lunchtime and after school clubs.

We are justly proud of our academic record and this year, 86.4% of our A Level students received A*- C grades. Our students results are consistently well above the national averages and our Sixth Formers regularly gain places at their first choice universities. Please contact our Admissions Officer, Mrs Sue Bond to arrange a tour of the school. Tel: 01903 228638. Email: admissions@sionschool.org.uk Further information regarding our school can be located on our website: www.sionschool.org.uk Follow us on Twitter: @SionSchool 72

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Empowering our young women

by Antonia Beary Headmistress, Mayfield School

from an early age

A single sex education responds to the needs of today and tomorrow.

woman in today’s world is expected to balance many roles. She will need independence, confidence, leadership, integrity, courage and ambition - qualities which will be nurtured and developed by the right school environment. Girls’ schools are specialists in educating girls, and I believe this equips them best to support girls during their formative years: to be aware not only of the wealth of opportunities available to them now, but also the ‘glass ceilings’ and how to respond. Our teachers are not just at the forefront of contemporary education but, specifically, contemporary education for girls. Girls and boys mature at different rates so, in a learning environment, it makes sense to give both girls and boys what they need at each stage in their development. Girls’ schools provide an education that’s carefully tailored to the needs and developmental stage of each girl. One consequence of this is outstanding examination results. Year after year, girls in single sex schools achieve significantly better grades. Yet, exam results are not everything. We aim to produce confident, independent women. And that includes them being able to engage with boys on a personal, intellectual and professional level. In order to do so appropriately, they need the freedom to find out who they are, or want to be, rather than whom they feel society is pressuring them to be. We want them to explore fully all the educational opportunities available to them, discerning their strengths and weaknesses; be they in the classroom, on the sports field or in performance.

Furthermore, in a school like Mayfield, with over twenty different nationalities, girls learn an understanding and appreciation of other cultures which prepares them to take their place on the world stage. One of the great benefits of an all-girls school is that there is no gender stereotyping. Girls don’t just enjoy equal opportunities, they enjoy ALL opportunities. They excel as much in physics, engineering and design as they do in English, drama and art. They are free to pursue and achieve in every sport their school offers. There should be no limitations on a girl’s aspirations, both professional and personal: our role is to help her instill the discipline, rigour and courage to achieve them. Every school claims to have excellent pastoral care. The difference in girls’ schools is that we really do understand what makes girls tick. This experience means we can give the right (continued on page 75)

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Talking about iGeneration

he iGeneration Report from Fun Kids Radio researched 2,000 children aged eight to fourteen on topics such as sexualisation, sexuality, diet and even immigration - and reveals that children are far more self aware, selfmonitoring and self-protective than parents give them credit.

On the basis of the finding The iGeneration Report also that children as young as eight looked at the values children are well-informed, mindful place on themselves and their of their behaviour and have lives, revealing that the most strong opinions, the report pressing concerns for children are highlights how key decision to be happy(54%), clever (30%), makers in children’s lives kind (27%) and have a loving should consider giving family (34%). this unrepresented ...shaping demographic Parental concerns of eight to over the impact up to be the fourteen year of shows such most tolerant olds more as X Factor and yet - not needing to of a voice Big Brother be shielded from within society appear to be life by anxious - and more groundless, with autonomy only 3% thinking adults. when decisions it’s important to be concerning their able to sing and dance future are made. and a tiny 1% wanting to be famous. In particular, children themselves are most concerned about the When it comes to what’s pop industry and the increasing important in other people, ‘sexiness’ of musicians and their the iGeneration could well music videos - such as those of be shaping up to be the most Miley Cyrus, Rihanna and Robin tolerant yet - not really needing Thicke. Despite parents’ fears to be shielded from life by with one in twenty banning their anxious adults. children from watching these videos - over one in ten children A huge 90% of children aren’t (13%) wished their videos were worried about racial difference, ‘less sexy’, with 11% stating they not caring where their friends would respect the stars more if are from so long as they are they wore more clothes. good people. And with all the debate around what children are 11% admitted the videos make taught in PSHE lessons, when them feel uncomfortable asked about sexuality a hopeful leading to 28% stating that pop two fifths (38%) think anyone stars should set a better example. should be allowed to marry - as long as they love each other. In fact, 31% of modern children Interestingly, when asked about would make the independent marriage, 9% think the whole decision to stop listening to a concept is old-fashioned. pop star’s music if they personally stopped respecting them - with Despite having rocketing another 30% stopping if they disposable incomes - with the took drugs, and 24% if they average child receiving £5 per broke the law. One in seven week - the Report also reveals (14%) of respondents said they children are fiscally aware, with would shun artists if they find one in four (24%) worrying their lyrics to be offensive about the family’s finances. This demonstrating the iGeneration’s leads to surprising philanthropy, ability to make mature decisions with 12% of children saving about their own media their pocket money to help out consumption. their parents - and 4% even

ABC Magazine - Sussex

saying no to pocket money as they are aware that their parents are struggling. This financial awareness also impacts on children’s thoughts on their future - with children as young as eight already taking note of the state of the economy when considering their careers. 21% of iGeneration children would forgo university to get a job as soon as they left school to earn money instead and under half said they wanted to go to university. The cost of education was a big factor, as 15% of children under the age of fourteen already think that university will cost too much. This mature attitude also extends to healthy lifestyles, another

top parenting concern. 32% of children know they should spend more time outside - but one in five say their parents stop them from doing so. 24% even connect technology with their lifestyle, admitting they would get out more if they had less tech to play with. The habit of iGeneration to self-monitor and make their own sensible decisions didn’t just apply to their parents - it also related to their school and teachers. Perhaps Nicky Morgan could take note of the results of the iGeneration Report, as 10% of children aged eight to fourteen don’t think that they are given enough to do in lessons at school - 3% even wish they had more homework!

(continued from page 73)

kind of support and create safe environments in which they feel comfortable taking risks and asking questions. Perhaps too, we are also more rigorous in our expectations; there is nothing that can’t be said, if you ‘speak the truth in love’. As a result, girls become more resilient and sure of themselves. Whole school roles such as the Senior Prefect Team need to be filled, and they ALL need to be filled by girls. Girls learn to shoulder responsibility, as well as how to inspire and lead others. While there are ‘glass ceilings’ in a girls’ school, we are equipping them to break that glass when they encounter it outside.

Girls’ schools have an excellent track record in helping students gain places at their university of choice: six Mayfield pupils have started at Oxbridge Colleges this year, most studying Science or Mathematics based subjects. Whether your daughter continues her studies in higher education or opts to go straight into employment, a girls’ school will prepare her to be successful. We open girls’ eyes to possibilities and help them to take the practical and imaginative steps necessary to achieve their ambitions whatever they may be. BAC Mayfield is a leading Catholic independent boarding and day school in Sussex that has been educating the minds, bodies, hearts and souls of girls aged 11 to 18 for over 150 years. www.mayfieldgirls.org

ABC Magazine - Sussex

by Ollie Edlin Head of Sport, Shoreham College

The importance of sport in junior schools

recent government report 'Going the extra mile: Excellence in competitive school sport' was commissioned after the 2012 Olympic games in London to explore why so many Team GB athletes had been educated in private rather than state schools.

Extra funding for PE E

xtra funding is to be made available to double the number of physical education specialists working in primary schools. The Department for Education said specialist staff were vital to ensure children developed “a sporting habit for life”.

Funding will be put towards training primary teachers with a specialism in PE, the DfE said. It is hoped 240 primary PE specialists will take up posts by September 2015. The DfE announcement follows a warning from Ofsted, that too many pupils are being denied the chance to take part in competitive sport in state schools.

It found ‘unacceptable discrepancies’ where fewer than one in ten pupils in England attends fee-paying schools but privately educated athletes make up the majority of players in rugby union’s English Premiership and more than a third in top level cricket. Ofsted’s chief inspector, Sir Michael Wilshaw, says the state sector needs to stop treating sport as an ‘optional extra’. The report found that schools where pupils lack opportunities to excel at sport also tend to do worse academically. The most successful schools, both state and private, report that competitive sport has positive effects on behaviour, attendance and academic achievement.

As a result of this report the number of primary school teachers with a specialism in PE is to be doubled after the government announced it would give extra cash to boost the take-up of school sport. Ministers will provide an extra £360,000 to expand a pilot programme, which has seen one hundred and twenty primary specialists placed into schools across the country. The success of the initiative has led the Department for Education to increase the number of specialists to 240 in a bid to improve the quality of PE teaching in primary schools. Children’s minister Edward Timpson believes the second round of funding would enable

- what Sussex parents really read... it’s got everything in it! 76

ABC Magazine - Sussex

announced primary schools PE specialists to support other would receive ÂŁ150m a year over teachers in their schools. He two years in a bid to capitalise said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;PE teaching is a specialist role and deserves bespoke support. on the legacy left behind by the London Olympics in 2012. PE specialists are vital to really While the money was embedding sporting expertise welcomed, experts in schools, as well as raised concerns giving children The Youth over the lack of every chance Sport Trust PE teachers of developing has consistently with suitable a sporting called for more training to habit for life. PE specialists and deliver PE The pilot lessons and put has already greater emphasis the money to attracted highon PE and good use. calibre graduates sport... who want to share The Youth Sport their love of sport. We must harness this and ensure more Trust has consistently called for more PE specialists and schools across the country can greater emphasis on PE and benefit from their expertise.â&#x20AC;? sport during teacher training. John Steele, chief executive of The decision comes a year after Prime Minister David Cameron (continued on page 79)

Shoreham College

Here at Shoreham College we are very lucky to have both excellent facilities and specialist PE teachers. Sport is considered so much more than just physical exercise and we believe that by participating in sport, children learn valuable life skills: teamwork, commitment, reliability and leadership. All pupils are given the equal opportunity to participate in a broad and balanced range of activities. We make it enjoyable for the children, helping to increase their self-confidence and giving them a feeling of achievement. We aim to instil in the children a lifelong enjoyment of physical activity and promote good health. We are lucky to have excellent sports facilities: expertly tended outdoor pitches for football, rugby, rounders and cricket; tennis and netball courts; a huge indoor facility and our own heated swimming pool. Our PE staff are passionate and supportive and help all children reach their individual potential. We have nurtured many talented children to enjoy great success both individually and in College teams, competing at local, regional and national level within a wide range of sports. There is a very extensive range of sports fixtures in football, netball, rugby, rounders and cricket with local independent and state schools; this gives pupils the opportunity to apply what they have learnt in lessons and after school clubs. Shoreham College is very proud to have had an increasing impact in sporting events in recent years, testament not only to the ability and commitment of the children but the ambition of the PE department and College as a whole. We believe that all schools should have this same commitment and expertise. Recognition by the Government of the importance of sport will hopefully be embraced and will encourage all schools to give all children opportunity to thrive and reach their true potential. ABC Magazine - Sussex

Ashdown House Boarding and Day Preparatory School (4-13)

A caring, traditional environment giving children a first class education and values to take them through life • Small classes • Excellent scholarship and CE success to all major public schools • New pre prep • Set in 40 stunning acres • Fantastic music, art, DT, drama and sport

Do come and see us!

Forest Row, East Sussex RH18 5JY 01342 822574 www.ashdownhouse.co.uk secretary@ashdownhouse.com

New computing module for early education

ducationCity, provider of e-learning resources for primary schools, has launched its new computing module for Key Stages 1 and 2, packed with interactive multimedia activities, lesson plans and topic tools to help primary schools meet the new national curriculum objectives for computing brought in from September 2014

The new computing module is available to existing EducationCity subscribers for free until January 2015, or available as a free trial for non-subscribers, and is the perfect companion for teachers who feel daunted by the new subject’s objectives. EducationCity’s computing module is much more than ‘coding’ and to make this new subject manageable for teachers, it has been organised into three distinct areas - computer science, information technology and digital literacy. Key Stage 2 is also split into lower and upper levels to help teachers differentiate the objectives. 78

ABC Magazine - Sussex

For computer science, EducationCity has developed the Code Crunch programming tool which helps children explore and understand how code is structured and the results that can be achieved by writing their own simple lines of instruction. Featured tutorials help teachers get to grips with delivering coding lessons and pupils can follow suggested activity plans targeted at their ability or use their imagination to create their own outcomes. Information technology looks at the application and uses of technology in terms of how it impacts their day-to-day lives and the world around them.

Multimedia activities include about browsing the internet making a newsletter, editing and explores how pupils could documents and changing fonts respond to issues such as spam and sizes. They are supported by and cyberbullying. further resources with step- bystep instructions to help EducationCity also pupils explore topics supports maths, ...it has at their own pace. English, science been organised and languages into three distinct Finally, digital (French, areas - computer Spanish literacy explores science, information and English the safe and technology and language for responsible use digital literacy. pupils with of technology English as a and educates second language) young people on the which became statutory at importance of staying safe online. For example, one activity Key Stage 2 in September 2014. called ‘Safe Surfing’, aimed at For further information visit Key Stage 1 learners, features www.EducationCity.com characters raising awareness

(continued from page 77)

the Youth Sport Trust, said: “Primary schools play such a crucial role in developing the physical literacy of young people and ensuring they have a positive first experience of PE and sport. However, primary class teachers are generalists and have limited physical education training, introducing teachers with a specialism in the subject is a positive step forward and should be welcomed.” Whilst fee-paying schools often benefit from facilities state schools are unable to match,

Ofsted says this should not be a barrier to sporting success. Specialist teachers should be prepared to dedicate time and energy before, during and after school, as well as at the weekends, say the authors of the report, adding that staff need to be able to identify talented pupils for extra coaching and ensure matches were accessible to everyone. BAC Please call 01273 592681 to find out more about what Shoreham College can offer you, or to arrange a personal visit at any time of the school year. www.shorehamcollege.co.uk

Mandarin at Pre-Prep: Cutting edge or common sense? by Mr David Jones, Mandarin teacher at Brighton College Pre-Prep School

When I tell strangers about my job they generally look at me in shock and exclaim “You teach Mandarin... to four year olds?!” But children, especially young children, absorb languages like sponges - the younger, the better. Indeed, there is a wealth of research to suggest that children greatly benefit by learning languages at a young age and that waiting until secondary school means missing an important window of opportunity which exists around the EYFS. In a progressive environment like Brighton College Pre-Prep School it is easy to forget that what we consider to be a practical move forward is actually still on the cutting edge for other schools. Our Reception children sing songs and play games in Mandarin. They are so busy having fun that they don’t notice how quickly they develop an understanding of the complexities of the next big world language - something which we believe will offer them a great advantage later in life. To discover more about Brighton College Prep and Pre-Prep Schools you are warmly invited to visit our next Open Morning on Saturday 24th January 2015 please see our advertisement on the back cover for further details or call 01273 704343.

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Diary of events This list of events in Sussex has been carefully selected to offer both children and families fun things to do - hopefully with something to appeal to everyone.

e suggest that you check details before setting off for the day. Tourist Information Centre phone numbers covering the local area are listed below or simply take a look at www. visitsoutheastengland.com

Arundel & Bognor

01903 737838

Brighton & Hove

01273 290337

Burgess Hill

01444 247726

Chichester

01243 775888

Crawley

01293 846968

Eastbourne

0871 663 0031

Hastings

01424 451111

Horsham

01403 211661

Lewes

01273 483448

Littlehampton

01903 721866

Rye, Battle & Bexhill

01424 773721

Worthing

01903 221066

Brighton and Hove Museums & Libraries Pick up a 'Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On' leaflet from any of the Brighton & Hove Museums to find out about Early Years and Families events, or pop along to your local library to pick up information on their childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities. Many events are free and there is something for all ages! www.brighton-hove-rpml.org.uk Disclaimer: The information contained in this listing is given in good faith on the basis of information available to ABC Magazine. ABC Magazine cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information and accepts no responsibility for any error, omission or misrepresentation. All liability for loss, disappointment, negligence or other damage caused by the reliance on the information contained herewith, is hereby excluded.

Sussex council contacts

he councils, libraries and museums all across Sussex are busy throughout the year creating things to keep residents and their children busy and entertained. Check out the websites below for more information.

here are many councils in Sussex - all are a wealth of local information. Here are the contact numbers of each council - queries should be raised with Leisure Services Department.

Arun

Brighton & Hove

www.arun.gov.uk

Brighton & Hove Chichester Crawley

Eastbourne

Hastings Horsham

www.visitbrighton.com

Adur

01273 263000

Arun

01903 737500

Chichester

01273 290000

www.visitchichester.org

Crawley

www.visitcrawley.co.uk

Eastbourne

01243 785166 01293 438000

01323 410000

www.visiteastbourne.com

East Sussex

0345 60 80 197

www.visit1066country.com

Hastings

01424 451066

www.visithorsham.com

Horsham

01403 215100

Lewes

www.lewes.gov.uk

Lewes

01273 471600

Rother

www.rother.gov.uk

Mid-Sussex

01444 458166

Worthing and Adur www.visitworthing.co.uk

Rother

01424 787878

Visit Sussex

West Sussex

01243 777100

Worthing

01903 221066

www.visitsussex.org

We appreciate that on a family day out, if the children are happy then the chances for the entire family to enjoy the day are enhanced. Every effort is made to ensure that information is correct at time of going to press, but ABC Magazine cannot be held liable for any errors or omissions.

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Wild Families - Wild in the Woods RSPB Pulborough Brooks, Pulborough www.rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks Wizard Weekend Watercress Line, Alresford, Hampshire www.watercressline.co.uk 50 Things to Do Before You're 113/4 Sheffield Park and Garden, Uckfield www.nationaltrust.org.uk End of Season at Amberley Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre www.amberleymuseum.co.uk RAC Veteran Car Run Madeira Drive, Brighton www.veterancarrun.com Worthing Lions Fireworks Worthing Pier, Worthing www.worthinglions.co.uk Emily Brown and the Thing 4.30pm The Hawth, Crawley www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk Family Firework Spectacular 2014 Nevill Recreation Ground, Hove www.familyfireworks.co.uk Family Bonfire & Fireworks Church of the Good Shepherd, Shoreham www.shorehambonfire.co.uk Bag a Baby Bargain Baby Sale 10am St John's Hall, West Worthing Tel: 0780 0990 010 Independent Schools Show Vicentia Court, London www.schoolshow.com The Queen's Knickers 2pm & 4pm Connaught Studio, Worthing www.worthingtheatres.co.uk Laternenumzug (lantern walk) Hove Park, Hove www.dssbrightonhove.org Brighton Christmas & Gift Fair Brighton Racecourse Race Hill, Brighton www.brightonchristmasfair.co.uk The Fairy Tale Fair 10.30am-3.30pm Patcham Methodist Church, Brighton www.thefairytalefair.co.uk/fairs/patcham Christmas Fair 10am-4pm American Express Stadium, Brighton www.stylishchristmasfairs.co.uk Christmas Light Switch On Priory Meadow Shopping Centre, Hastings www.priorymeadow.com MADE BRIGHTON - Design & Craft Fair Corn Exchange, Brighton www.brighton-made.co.uk Father Christmas Needs A Wee! Connaught Studio, Worthing www.worthingtheatres.co.uk Leaf Hall Christmas Fair 10am-4pm Leaf Hall Community Centre, Eastbourne www.leafhall.co.uk WFRA Christmas Fayre 10am-1pm Willowhale Centre, Bognor Regis www.willowhaleresidents.co.uk Sussex Pregnancy and Baby Fair 10am Drill Hall, Horsham www.uflourish.co.uk Sing-a-long-a Frozen 5.30pm The Hawth, Crawley www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk Christmas Festivities Various venues, Southwick www.visitworthing.co.uk Great Dixter Christmas Fair Great Dixter House & Gardens, Rye www.greatdixter.co.uk

29 29-30 29- 24 Dec 29- 4 Jan 30 30

Babar The Little Elephant 11am The Hawth, Hawth Avenue, Crawley www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk Discover Birds: Winter Edition Wetland Centre, Arundel www.wwt.org.uk/arundel The Magic of Christmas Past Hever Castle and Gardens, Hever www.hevercastle.co.uk/whatson Winter Wonderland Drusillas Park, Alfriston www.drusillas.co.uk Sussex Family Christmas Fair Charmandean Centre, Worthing www.sussexfamilychristmasfair.co.uk Sing-a-long-a Frozen 11am & 3pm The Hawth, Crawley www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk

December 1 1-6 1-24 1- 4 Jan 3-6 5- 4 Jan 5- 17 Jan 6 6 6 6-7 6-7 6-14 6-21 7 7 10-21 11- 4 Jan 12

Tavistock & Summerhill School Choir Haywards Heath Station 5.30-7pm www.tavistockandsummerhill.co.uk Sing and Sign Free Tasters Brighton and Hove www.singandsign.co.uk The Magic of Christmas Past Hever Castle and Gardens, Hever www.hevercastle.co.uk/whatson Winter Wonderland Drusillas Park, Alfriston www.drusillas.co.uk Sleeping Beauty The Meridan Centre, Peacehaven www.peacehavenplayers.co.uk Aladdin Connaught Theatre, Worthing www.worthingtheatres.co.uk Sleeping Beauty Emporium Theatre, Brighton www.emporiumbrighton.com Christmas Fairy Tale Fair Brighton Racecourse, Brighton www.thefairytalefair.co.uk Prebendal Christmas Fair 10am-3pm The Prebendal School, Chichester www.prebendalschool.org.uk Sea of Lights Various venues, Lancing www.visitworthing.co.uk Santa Special Watercress Line, Alresford, Hampshire www.watercressline.co.uk Amberley Museum’s Santa Fun Days Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre www.amberleymuseum.co.uk Chichester Christmas Market North Street and East Street, Chichester www.woodlandcrafts.co.uk Christmas in the Castle Bodiam Castle, Robertsbridge www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bodiam-castle Santa Fun Run & Walk - Eastbourne Sovereign Centre, Eastbourne www.events.myastheniagravis.co.uk Nikolausfeier & Weihnachtsbazar Christmas Fair German Kindergarten, Brighton www.dssbrightonhove.org Snow Play The Capitol, Horsham www.capitalhorsham.com Cinderella The Capitol, Horsham www.capitalhorsham.com Dress as an Elf Various venues throughout Sussex www.rockinghorse.org.uk

12-14 12-13 12- 1 Jan 12- 4 Jan 12- 11 Jan 13 13-14 13-14 13-14 13-14 13-24 14 18-21 20-21 20-23 20-23 20-24 20- 3 Jan 21 21-22 21-24 21-31 23-31 24 26- 2 Jan 27-31

Cuckfield Christmas Tree Festival Holy Trinity Church, Cuckfield www.cuckfieldctf.org.uk Christmas Food & Drink Festival Various venues, Shoreham www.visitworthing.co.uk Jack Frost's Frozen Christmas Pavilion Theatre, Worthing www.worthingtheatres.co.uk Sleeping Beauty The Hawth, Crawley www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk Beauty and the Beast Devonshire Park Theatre, Eastbourne www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk South East Festive Christmas Fair Fontwell Park Racecourse, Fontwell www.southeastchristmasfair.co.uk Santa Special Watercress Line, Alresford, Hampshire www.watercressline.co.uk Amberley Museum’s Santa Fun Days Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre www.amberleymuseum.co.uk Wey & Arun Canal Trust Santa Cruises Wey and Arun Canal Trust, Loxwood www.weyandarun.co.uk Santa's Grotto Wetland Centre, Arundel www.wwt.org.uk/arundel 12 Days 'til Christmas - Wild Style Wetland Centre, Arundel www.wwt.org.uk/arundel Carols in Oak Hall Sheffield Park and Garden, Uckfield www.nationaltrust.org.uk Giant Snow Globe Cinema 10am-6pm St Ann's Well Gardens, Hove www.stannswellgardens.co.uk Amberley Museum’s Santa Fun Days Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre www.amberleymuseum.co.uk Wey & Arun Canal Trust Santa Cruises Wey and Arun Canal Trust, Loxwood www.weyandarun.co.uk Winter Wonderland 2-8pm Field Place, Worthing www.worthingleisure.co.uk Santa Special Watercress Line, Alresford, Hampshire www.watercressline.co.uk The Hundred and One Dalmations Festival Theatre, Chichester www.cft.org.uk Burning the Clocks Madeira Drive, Brighton www.samesky.co.uk/events Robin's Winter Adventure The Hawth, Crawley www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk Long Nose Puppets Present Penguin Komedia, Brighton www.komedia.co.uk/brighton Sleeping Beauty Ropetackle Arts Centre, Shoreham www.ropetacklecentre.co.uk Jack and the Beanstalk The Capitol, Horsham www.capitalhorsham.com Children's Crib Service 5pm St Lukes Church, Stone Cross www.gausden.com/stone Seasonal Children's Crafts Wetland Centre, Arundel www.wwt.org.uk/arundel Long Nose Puppets Present Penguin Komedia, Brighton www.komedia.co.uk/brighton

1-3 1-4 1-4 1-4 1-4 1-8 1-11 1-17 2-4 6-11 6-11

The Hundred and One Dalmations Festival Theatre, Chichester www.cft.org.uk Cinderella The Capitol, Horsham www.capitalhorsham.com Winter Wonderland Drusillas Park, Alfriston www.drusillas.co.uk Aladdin Connaught Theatre, Worthing www.worthingtheatres.co.uk Sleeping Beauty The Hawth, Crawley www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk Tick n' Twitch Junior Wetland Centre, Arundel www.wwt.org.uk/arundel Beauty and the Beast Devonshire Park Theatre, Eastbourne www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk Sleeping Beauty Emporium Theatre, Brighton www.emporiumbrighton.com Long Nose Puppets Present Penguin Komedia, Brighton www.komedia.co.uk/brighton Holiday on Ice Brighton Centre, Brighton www.brightoncentre.co.uk Moscow City Ballet Giselle/Nutcracker Festival Theatre, Chichester www.cft.org.uk

February 8 14-15 16 16-21 20-21 20-22 21- 1 March

Sing-a-Long-a Frozen 2.30pm Theatre Royal, Brighton www.theatresonline.com Octonauts & The Deep Sea Volcano Connaught Theatre, Worthing www.worthingtheatres.co.uk The Sooty Show 11am & 2.30pm Theatre Royal, Brighton www.atgtickets.com Sing and Sign Free Tasters Brighton and Hove www.singandsign.co.uk Arthur's Dream Boat Festival Theatre, Chichester www.cft.org.uk Modelworld 2015 10am Brighton Centre, Brighton www.brightoncentre.co.uk Rye Bay Scallop Week Various Venues, Rye www.scallop.org.uk

LOOK OUT FOR THE NEW SPRING ISSUE OF ABC - OUT & ABOUT FROM 1st MARCH!

January

March

1 1 1-2

1 13-15 28-29

New Year's Dip in Bognor Regis Sea Yacht Club, Bognor Regis www.bognorlions.co.uk Jack Frost's Frozen Christmas Pavilion Theatre, Worthing www.worthingtheatres.co.uk Seasonal Children's Crafts Wetland Centre, Arundel www.wwt.org.uk/arundel

Rye Bay Scallop Week Various Venues, Rye www.scallop.org.uk Whalefest 2015 Brighton Centre, Brighton www.whale-fest.com VegfestUK 2015 Brighton Centre, Brighton www.brighton.vegfest.co.uk

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Where can we go? What can we do?

• Days out for FREE • Days out for FREE • Days out for FREE • All these places offer free admission and may also have other facilities available for a charge (such as tea rooms, boat hire, golf etc) Alfriston - 7 Sisters Country Park. 700 acres of clifftop downland and marshland, shingle banks and scrub located by the Cuckmere River. www.sevensisters.org.uk Ardingly - Ardingly Reservoir. 200 acre lake formed in a natural valley, set in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Numerous water sports. www.ardinglyactivitycentre.co.uk Arundel - Arundel Park. This unspoiled slice of the Downs is not open to cars. Boats available for hire on Swanbourne Lake. Tearooms. Lovely Downland walks. Arundel - Fairmile Bottom. 160 acres of grassland and woodland ideal for picnics. Nature trail with a way-marked route, many woodland birds and wild flowers. Bognor Regis - Hotham Park. Wooded park- miniature railway, putting green & crazy golf. Next to Rainbow's End children's park. www.hothampark.co.uk Bexhill - Egerton Park. Great play area with sand pit right next to the beach. Large pond, tennis courts and toilets and only 5 minute walk from the train station. Brighton - Brighton Marina. Enjoy the sights and sounds of a busy marina. The South Coast’s only Factory Outlet Shopping Village. www.brightonmarina.co.uk Brighton - Devils Dyke. Superb views over Sussex countryside. Hang gliders launch site. Ideal kite flying. Picnic site & facilities. Restaurant open all year. Brighton - Preston Park and the Rock Garden. 63 acres of parkland. Small pond with stepping stones. Enclosed playground. Tennis courts. Choice of two cafés. Brighton - Stanmer Park. Just south of Sussex University at Falmer on A27. Lots of open space, Rural Museum, woodland walks, plant sales & tea rooms. Brighton - Withdean Park. Open parkland covering 38 acres. Largest collection of lilacs in Europe. Bog garden with two lily ponds laid out in a natural bowl. Brighton - Booth Museum of Natural History. Over half a million exhibits and specimens from the extraordinary to the exotic! www.brighton-hove-rpml.org.uk Burgess Hill - Bedelands Farm Nature Reserve. Recently approved nature reserve, well marked, circular walks. Lots of wildlife. Great for picnics. Burgess Hill - St John's Park. Open parkland, picnic area, adventure play area and tennis. Activities in summer. www.midsussex.gov.uk Crawley - Buchan Country Park. Over 150 acres of woodland, 2 large ponds (fishing permits available), nature trail and countryside centre. Crawley - Tilgate Park. Outdoor play area, Smith & Western, open parkland, woods & lakes. www.crawley.gov.uk/tilgatepark.www.crawley.gov.uk/tilgate Ditchling - Ditchling Beacon. 50 acre nature reserve managed by the Sussex Wildlife Trust. 813ft above sea level, the third highest point on the South Downs. Ditchling - Ditchling Common Country Park. 188 acres of open countryside. Small lake is home to Britain's largest dragonfly! Lots of lovely walks. Eastbourne - Beachy Head Countryside Centre. Free exhibition into the history and ecology of Beachy Head and Eastbourne downland. www.beachyhead.org Eastbourne - Carpet Gardens. On the bustling seafront in Eastbourne these gardens offer a large play area for the children to let off steam. www.visiteastbourne.com Eastbourne - Pier. Originally built in the 1870’s the Pier has much to offer either to enjoy a walk from end to end or to play on the latest hi-tech games for all ages. Eastbourne - Hampden Park. Huge park area with a fine selection of mature oak trees, a beautiful lake with wildfowl and a great assault course for the children. Eastbourne - Princes Park. This beautiful park has an eighteen hole miniature golf course and a picturesque boating lake. The play area also has a paddling pool. Eastbourne - Sovereign Harbour. Panoramic views of the Marina from the harbourside walkway offering a mix of shops and restaurants. www.eastbourneharbour.com Eastbourne - Towner Art Gallery & Local Museum. 19th and 20th Century British Art. The Museum also traces the history of Eastbourne. www.townereastbourne.org.uk Eastbourne - R.N.L.I. Lifeboat Museum. Lifeboat memorabilia and fine selection of lifeboat models. Well stocked souvenir shop. www.eastbournernli.org/museum Hastings - Alexandra Park. Large park with boating lake, café, tennis courts, play area with climbing apparatus and toilets. Haywards Heath - Beech Hurst Gardens. Miniature steam railway. Excellent children's playground & facilities. Tennis courts and pitch & putt. Henfield - Sussex Wildlife Trust’s Nature Reserve at Woods Mill. A nature trail winds through woodland, a meadow and a reed-fringed lake. www.sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk Horsham - Horsham Park. Excellent facilities for families. Enclosed play area, lake, scented garden and tennis. Leisure Centre and pool on outskirts. Horsham - Southwater Country Park. 55 acres of wooded park formally Southwater brickworks. Visitor Centre open summer weekends. Horsham - Warnham Nature Reserve. 150 acres of woodland, meadows, marsh and millpond providing a safe haven for much wildlife. Hove - Hove Park. Excellent enclosed children's play area with safety surface. Miniature railway, bowls and tennis. Cafe. Plenty of open space for picnics. Littlehampton - Mewsbrook Park. Large boating lake with boats to hire in summer. Miniature railway, tennis courts and miniature golf. Shoreham - Shoreham Airport. A very busy general aviation airport with a Grade II listed terminal building with full public restaurant.

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Play in the

great outdoors

scheme to encourage children to play in natural outdoor areas has been launched after research found parents are scared to let children out alone. A survey produced to mark the launch of Natural England's One Million Children Outdoors programme revealed parents' worries about strangers and road safety prevented them from giving children freedom to play unsupervised outdoors. Natural England's Childhood outside. The majority of parents (85%) said and Nature survey found that less they would like their children than 10% of ...fears to be able children played of strangers to play in in natural and road safety natural places, more prevented them than 70% spaces from giving much of children unsupervised freedom to their said they were but fears offspring. of strangers supervised wherever they and road safety played, rising to more prevented them from giving much freedom than 80% in natural places, and 81% said they would to their offspring. (continued over the page) like more freedom to play

great views of s the down

INDOOR PLAY AREA ANIMAL BARN OUTDOOR PLAY AREA TEA ROOM - CHILD FRIENDLY GIFT SHOP SCHOOL / BIRTHDAY PARTIES TRACTOR RIDES MAIZE MAZE FOOTBALL PITCH JUMPING PILLOW ANIMAL PADDOCK WALK INDOOR PICNIC AREA

The Family Farm Open 7 days a week 9.30am - 5.00pm 01273 832201 www.washbrooks.co.uk

A great day out for all the family! ABC Magazine - Sussex

(continued from previous page)

The Natural England programme aims to introduce one million children to the natural world over the next three years. The first year of the scheme will see farm visits and visits to national nature reserves doubled for school-aged children, the launch of an interactive wildlife gardening website and the promotion of a nationwide marine

conservation campaign. Stephen Moss, a naturalist and the author of a new family outdoor guide, The Bumper Book of Nature, said: "Concerns over child safety are understandable but if children can't get out and explore the natural world, we run the risk of raising a generation of cotton wool kids, whose experiences are defined by websites and computer games." BAC

Top day out for families and kids at Europe’s prime vegan event in Brighton Families and kids alike will enjoy a top day out at one of Europe’s biggest and best vegan event VegfestUK on March 28th and 29th at the Brighton Centre, right by the famous Brighton seaside. This event is set to attract 10,000 visitors over two days and celebrates the best of following a vegan lifestyle in a fun, informal and lively fashion. The kids' activities at VegfestUK Brighton perfectly epitomise this spirit, with kid’s cookery classes augmented by a lively combination of Last Man Standing and Disco Dome. The kids' cookery section includes

ABC Magazine - Sussex

pancake tossing lessons, magic bananas, rainbow hands, smoothie bike, rainbow salt play dough, treasure trail, fitness workout and others, and these will be hosted by kids' entertainer, Pirate of the Carob Bean - Captain James Tea Cook. In addition to the kids' activities, the event showcases the very best vegan products from over 160 stalls and vegan food and drinks from fifteen specialist caterers for you to savour, plus dozens of talks, cookery demos and films which provide top info on vegan nutrition, health and lifestyles. There’s also the UK’s first ever Vegan

Comedy Festival alongside a Party Political Conference, a Global Food Sustainability Conference, LifeWell Hub workshops on natural healing methods, on top of speed-dating sessions and a massage area for you to chill out! Admission to the event is from 11am-7pm on Saturday and 11am6pm on Sunday. Advance tickets are £5 for one day and £8 for both days, and the event is free to enter for kids! BUY ONE GET ONE FREE tickets are available from www.brighton.vegfest.co.uk

Dress as an Elf on the Twelfth! Dress as an Elf on the Twelfth is back for a third year and Rockinghorse Children’s Charity wants you to get involved! Donate £1 to wear red and green on 12/12/14 and help raise money for sick children this Christmas. All funds raised will go towards a Christmas appeal to support a special project to make life better for sick children in Sussex. Rockinghorse is the official fundraising arm of the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital and a vital supporter of the Trevor Mann Baby Unit in Brighton, raising money for life-saving and cutting-edge medical equipment. Join in the festive spirit by getting your nursery, school or community group involved in the Dress as an Elf on the Twelfth fundraiser and you really could make a difference to children in hospital this Christmas. Whether you wear red socks, a green jumper or dress up in full elf attire, get involved on Friday 12 December and donate £1 to Rockinghorse Children’s Charity. To sign up or find out more, call 01273 330044, email elf@rockinghorse.org.uk or visit the website rockinghorse.org.uk for your Dress as an Elf on the Twelfth fundraising pack.

Free & festive! • An after-dark walk in your nearest town to see the Christmas lights. • A carol service. • Print out Christmas activities and colouring pages from the internet (try www.activityvillage.co.uk/ christmas). * Follow Santa as he delivers presents at www. noradsanta.org • Watch a Christmas family film with hot chocolate and marshmallows. • Most department stores will have lovely window displays this time of year. Do a little window shopping with your family! ABC Magazine - Sussex

Christmas - remember the important things...

t is so easy to get caught up in the whole commercial madness of Christmas; buying way too many presents, spoiling our children rotten and eating and drinking to excess. Christmas is often a time where there seems too much of everything, and while it can be fun to indulge to a certain degree, try and spend a few minutes to think about how you can make it a more ethical, and possibly meaningful, Christmas in your family.

NSPCC teams up with Santa to make Christmas wishes come true

hildren’s charity the NSPCC is once again teaming up with Santa to make children’s Christmas wishes come true by sending them a personalised Letter from Santa, sent direct from the North Pole via Rudolph Mail. The colourful, beautifully illustrated letters include the child’s (or big kid’s) name, age, gender, and a few other details which only Santa could know. Santa has even written a special poem to celebrate baby’s first Christmas too - a keepsake to treasure for years to come. Christmas is an exciting time of year but for some children it can be an incredibly difficult and lonely time. By requesting a Letter from Santa for a suggested donation of £5, the NSPCC can be there for vulnerable children, giving them someone to turn to when they need advice and support, this Christmas and beyond. Every £5 raised by Letter from Santa could help the NSPCC’s ChildLine service be there whenever a child seeks help either online or by phone. Every £12 raised could help trained ChildLine Schools Service volunteers talk to one primary school child about abuse, improving their understanding of abuse and how they can stay safe. The ChildLine Schools Service has already spoken to more than 6,300 children in schools across Sussex. Tracey Bravo, NSPCC community fundraising manager for Sussex, said: “Christmas is such magical time of year for children so why not bring even more magic and excitement by ordering a Letter from Santa for a friend or relative and support the NSPCC during the festive season.” Santa’s mailroom is open until 15th December 2014, and all those who request a Letter from Santa this year will be entered into a draw to win a Center Parcs holiday for a family of four. Request your Letter from Santa by calling 0845 839 9304 or visiting www.nspcc.org.uk/santa

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Children are bombarded with adverts of the best new toys and whilst it is always nice to get them what they want, it is also worth talking to children about why they can't have everything they want and about other children who aren't as lucky as them and may get very little for Christmas. The months prior to Christmas are a great time to have a clear out and you can encourage your children to sort through their own toys to see what they could take to a charity shop, or give to one of the campaigns that try to ensure that all children get at least one present at Christmas. When most of us look back at our favourite Christmas memories, it rarely involves a particular present. Our memories are much more likely to revolve around special times spent with our families and friends, playing games or following timehonoured family traditions. If you know someone is going to be on their own at Christmas, try to make some time to pop

round to see them or invite them to spend part of the day with your family. Research conducted by the RVS (Royal Voluntary Association) suggests that just under a quarter of a million older people spend Christmas alone. Some of them may prefer to be on their own, but a quick phone call will makes people realise that they haven't been forgotten and never goes amiss. You can make it a more ethical Christmas in your family in a number of simple ways. Try and can buy sustainable presents that will last a long time and have the potential to be used in a variety ways as your child grows, rather than the latest toy or gadget, which may have a shorter shelf life. Toys and activity packs that allow children to make things themselves and use their own skills and creativity make great presents. You can make some gifts yourself, which makes them extra special, and relatives will always cherish anything that has been handmade by the children in the family.

Use charity websites to buy virtual gifts for those who seem to have everything, and provide help to those who need it in the process.

present, often more thought goes into what you buy, rather than money being spent for the sake of it.

It isn't worth getting into unmanageable debt for the sake of a few presents that may be forgotten in a month or two's time. If things are tight this year, suggest to extended family members that you put a limit of how much you spend on each gift, just buy for one person each, or all club together and put a small amount in each and buy one super present. This way, you ensure that everyone has something to open but you don't spend ridiculous amounts of money you can't afford. If you put a limit on what is spent on a

Maybe, this year, think about buying less food. We always buy far too much food at Christmas and so much ends up being thrown away. Try to buy a little less of everything and you will probably still have too much! The shops are only shut for a day or two, so you can always restock if you run out of anything. Don't forget to recycle as much as possible - cards, wrapping paper, decorations, even unwanted gifts. And finally, with a your conscience clear, make sure you have a merry Christmas!

The last recommended posting dates for Christmas from the Post Office are: 18th December for 2nd class 20th December for 1st class

For overseas deliveries take a look at: www. royalmail.com/greetings ABC Magazine - Sussex

Images kindly supplied by The Hawth, Crawley

Panto time - oh yes it is!

ith grandparents, aunts, uncles and children of all ages often staying in the same house at Christmas, finding a trip out that everyone will enjoy in the freezing cold weather can be something of a chore. While you may be filled with pride watching your little one ride his Christmas bike without stabilizers along the seafront, you may find that Grandma and Grandad aren't having quite so much fun as those Sussex winds whip round their arthritic hips. The one outing guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face, regardless of age, is a trip to see a pantomime. This quaintly British Christmas tradition has passed down from generation to generation over the years and is an excellent way to introduce young children to the theatre.

Where did the pantomime start? The typical British Christmas pantomime has absorbed all sorts of different influences along the way, but it can mainly be traced back to the old 16th-century Italian commedia dell’Arte, a travelling theatre popular with

the masses. Because of language and communication problems, these shows increasingly focused on slapstick, comedy and funny costumes. British Music Hall developed this type of humour further. The famous clown, Joseph Grimaldi, pioneered the tradition of the Pantomime

Dame in the early 19th century and further cross-dressing was introduced around the 1880s, with the much-welcomed addition of the 'Principal Boy’, played by a girl. In an era when women were heavily corseted and covered, the sight of a young woman clad only

Cinderella - undoubtedly the most popular of all the classic fairytales. Thursday 11th December 2014 to Sunday 4th January 2015 at The Capitol, Horsham. This brand new production, created especially for The Capitol, stars Scotland’s finest Keith Jack (runner up in the BBC’s Any Dream Will Do) as Prince Charming and the inimitable Rosemary Shrager as Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother.

Party at the panto!

hildren of all ages love a Christmas show. If your child has a birthday over the Christmas period you could take him and a few friends to see a Christmas show. It's something they can't do at other times of the year so will be a bit different to the normal party, and the children will love it. It's an ideal introduction for those who haven't been to the theatre before as the audience certainly won't be watching it in silence! The birthday child may even get the chance to go up on stage and you may be able to take advantage of group booking rates. 88

ABC Magazine - Sussex

The production also stars Olly Pike (Wiley Sneak in CBBC’s Trapped) as Dandini and a superb cast of seasoned professionals including Zoe Adkin in the title role, Dot and Babs - The Wugly Sisters and brilliant comic actors Mike Goble as Buttons and Richard Alan as Baron Hardup. Cinderella will be everything people expect in a pantomime and more. Wonderful songs drawn from recent pop charts and classic musical theatre, fantastic sets and costumes, plus a thumping good story coupled with jokes old and new aimed at the whole family. The production will also feature miniature Shetland ponies supplied by Luckens. Sponsored by the West Sussex County Times.

in calf-hugging tights proved an instant hit with audiences.

hiss (especially those

...it who have been can mainly biting their be traced back to lip for the past couple the old 16th-century of days!) Italian commedia without dell’Arte, a travelling restraint. theatre popular with Let’s face it, the masses shouting “He’s

Pantomimes usually run from the first or second week of December until the beginning of January so decide what day suits you best, make a block booking and take along an assortment of relatives and friends of all ages. The very best pantomimes have something for everyone. While your four year daughter “Oohs” and “Ahhhs” at the princesses and sparkly costumes, Grandad will chuckle at the double entendres; your teenagers will enjoy recognising popular soap actors and presenters, and everyone will love the opportunity to boo and

behind you!” at the top of your voice in unison with hundreds of others is much more satisfying than snarling, “Are you ever going to take the rubbish out?” at your partner while trying to ensure that your mother-in-law doesn’t hear you. There is a great selection of pantomimes and Christmas shows in Sussex this year. Remember to book early to make sure you get the date of your choice. The best seats always go quickly!

...the longest established, best-read parenting magazine in Sussex.

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Adopt a pony for Christmas I

t’s the perfect Christmas present! Adopt a pony - and follow its progress all year round!

To help fund its vital work to preserve the traditional Dartmoor pony on Dartmoor, the Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust offers ‘A Dartmoor Pony Adoption Gift Pack’, suitable for anyone, of any age, who loves horses and ponies, but for whom buying a real one is simply not an option. By buying an Adoption, you will be funding the DPHT’s work to feed, care for and find homes for these ponies and to give them a basic education so that they are more suitable for domestic and conservation grazing homes than coming straight off the Moor as wild, untouched animals. The charity’s aim is to ensure the continuation of the native Dartmoor pony gene pool and to preserve the iconic pony on the Moor, for future generations

to enjoy. The cost is just £20 per year for UK residents: £25 for those who live abroad. The Adoption Pack includes a beautiful line drawing and an adoption certificate and you’ll also receive updates on the development and progress of the pony you have chosen over the following year. Ponies George, Charlie, Smartie and Rolo look forward to meeting you and to becoming part of your family! They live at the Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust Centre, at Parke, Bovey Tracey in Devon. Visitors are welcome on Sunday afternoons, to groom and handle the ponies and find out all about them, follow their interesting lives, discover their true value and how important they are to the Dartmoor landscape. These characters have a vital role to play in

demonstrating just how good Dartmoor ponies are as family pets and for riding, driving and conservation grazing: they are fundamental to the DPHT’s innovative education programme for young people who have a range of disabilities and/or challenging behaviour. The DPHT Adoption Scheme raises money to pay for part of its work to ensure that the traditional type of Dartmoor pony does not disappear. Singlecoloured with long manes and tails, Dartmoor ponies still run wild and free on Dartmoor, but their numbers are in erious decline. If you are interested in adopting a Dartmoor Heritage Pony or wish to make a donation please visit www.dpht.co.uk or phone 01626 833234.

Volunteer to be the gift this Christmas!

any charities are desperate for people to lend a helping hand over Christmas. But they do need to plan ahead, so if you are thinking of volunteering this year, now’s the time to find out what’s available in your area.

TimeBank, the national volunteering charity, has launched a special guide on its website at www.timebank.org.uk/christmas-volunteering in response to all the calls it receives about volunteering opportunities each Christmas.

at Christmas, while teams are looking to do something alternative, unusual, affordable and much more fun than your average work do.

The charity’s solution is to make volunteering part of the office celebrations - getting together with You could pack a shoebox full of gifts for children your workmates for a few hours volunteering in across the world, host an international student your community, and then celebrating together at at your home, help out at a foodbank for hungry a local pub or restaurant afterwards. families or volunteer as a residential helper at respite care centres across the UK. You might Helen Walker, Chief Executive of TimeBank, have thought about helping to serve Christmas says: “We came up with the idea of Christmas lunch at a homeless shelter but did you know Party Volunteering to help companies get their that many shelters also need entertainers, medical staff volunteering at Christmas. We can source a professionals, hairdressers, therapists and dog volunteering opportunity that suits you and your handlers? team. And whether it’s serving lunch to lonely older people or packing gifts for a homeless centre, TimeBank is especially keen to get companies you’ll have a great time with your colleagues and do volunteering this year. It says lots of businesses something incredible for your community.” are finding party budgets won’t stretch to much 90

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s Christmas approaches spare a thought for those families who struggle day in and day out with longterm disability, bereavement, poverty, abuse or neglect. Christmas really brings it home to these families, so we try and help out by making Christmas a bit more special. We provide approximately 100 luxury Christmas food hampers and around 400 pantomime tickets. Our hampers cost in the region of £35 and it is very humbling when a mum phones up in tears because we included luxury foods she simply couldn’t afford. The pantomime seats cost around £18 each and every child leaves the theatre with a going home present. These are treats that our families remember for a very long time, memories are made of this. You can help us by contributing either to our hampers or buying a pantomime seat, we are so grateful for any contribution made to our charity. You could, of course, visit our website and click on the MyDonate button. All our work is run by volunteers who give their time freely for the benefit of local Sussex children and their families. We do hope you are able to support us. Anne Bickmore BEM www.abcfund.org info@abcfund.org 07702809276

...don’t forget to say where you saw it!

Penguin at Komedia - a magical puppet adventure for 3 to 7 year olds. Long Nose Puppets are proud to present their spectacular show Penguin, adapted from the award winning book by Polly Dunbar. Ben is delighted when he rips open his present and finds a penguin inside. “Hello, Penguin!” says Ben. Penguin says nothing. What can Ben do to make Penguin speak? Follow the twists and turns of this wonderful tale, in which a silent Penguin turns marvellously eloquent and a little boy finally gets his heart’s desire. To book tickets visit www.komedia.co.uk/brighton or call 0845 293 8480 from 12noon 7 days.

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Fun festive facts • In 2013 the average spend on a Christmas present was £28.70 (according to a survey by Travelodge). • The majority of UK families (76%) will serve a roast turkey on Christmas Day. • On average, British women do not attempt their first Christmas lunch until the age of thirty-four. (Source: Food Network) • Henry VIII was the first English king to enjoy turkey. • Six million rolls of Sellotape are sold in the run-up to the big day. • In case you get asked it in a Christmas quiz; the names of Santa’s reindeer are Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner and Blitzen.

Christmas at Churchill Square in Brighton Explore the North Pole, shop in a German Christmas Market and see Ray Quinn perform live this Christmas at Churchill Square. German Style Christmas Market Friday 31st October until Wednesday 24th December Christmas Grotto: Journey to the North Pole Friday 28th November until Wednesday 24th December

At Churchill Square, we’ve got Christmas all wrapped up!

We will be showing two short animated films:

to limit the number so you are more likely to stick to them and they are more meaningful. Children could spend a winter’s afternoon writing up the list as a poster and then you can hang it somewhere you can all see it.

Here are a few ideas: • Spend ten minutes a day tidying a bedroom • Clear up toys Resolutions for the entire family • Look after pets • Drink more water might include doing more exercise together, playing board • Get up on time, so each school games twice a month, or eating morning isn’t a struggle a healthier diet. Rather than • No screens until after having a long list, it is better homework is done

ABC Magazine - Sussex

A 4 day Christmas Wonderland event for all the family with a Santa's grotto

This winter, avoid the cold outside and experience the magic of Christmas in the warmth of Churchill Square Shopping Centre in Brighton. With easy parking and over 70 stores to choose from, you can get your Christmas shopping all wrapped up under one roof.

Christmas Shopper Evening with Ray Quinn Thursday 4th December

e all know that most New Year’s resolutions fall by the wayside by midJanuary (or earlier!). So, instead of making unrealistic resolutions, you could try making family resolutions that will enhance all of your lives.

December 18th to December 21st

'Popping up' outside the cafe in St Ann's Well Gardens, Hove is the Snow Globe Cinema - be bedazzled by a wonderful fantasy world of immersive visuals and amazing sound, themed around Christmas and winter tales, whilst lying on comfy cushions and cloaked in a blanket.

The Annual Christmas Giving Tree Appeal aid of Chestnut Tree House Launches Saturday 29th November

Realistic resolutions W You could make it part of your family traditions at Christmas and New Year. Sitting down together to talk about how you can make things better or different, also gives you a chance to look back on the past year. You could give each family member a turn sharing something they are proud of and something they want to improve.

The Giant Snow Globe Immersive Cinema

Rewards Children love a goal and a reward for reaching it! You could sit down once a month and talk about how you are all doing. This gives you a chance to remind everyone of the resolutions and those that have stuck to the resolutions or made a big effort to, could receive a small reward. If everyone has an input into the resolutions they are more likely to stick to them and you never know, you might keep your resolutions until Easter this year!

Raymond Briggs 'The Snowman' The Longest Night - a winters tale The Soul Dome is in its third year showing short films and dazzling and educating audiences. Like a mini Imax, the image surrounds you and children love it. Seating just 30 at a time, the inflatable cinema is perfect for short films and the dates have been set in the last weekend leading up to Christmas, in the school holidays when parents are seeking magical Christmas experiences. At £4 a show, it makes for an affordable and fun Christmas treat for all the family. For further information please go to www.stannswellgardens.co.uk

Winter in Worthing... W

inter seems to have rather crept up on us.The glorious warm summer seemed to go on forever and hopefully you took the opportunity to visit Worthing and enjoy everything we have to enjoy, bathed in wonderful, warm sunshine.

However, Bonfire Night will soon be here! There will be fireworks galore across the whole region. The Worthing Lions ‘Tide of Lights’ returns to Worthing on November 5th; procession, market, funfair and firework finale will bring the town to life. While the Shoreham Bonfire Society Bonfire and Fireworks event will take place on Shoreham Beach on the 8th November. The Countdown to Christmas begins in Worthing on the 22nd November. Worthing’s town centre will come alive with all things festive - lights, panto stars, food market and lots more. The Festive theme will continue throughout the district with Christmas Festivals at Southwick on 29th November, Sea of Lights in Lancing on 6th December and Shoreham’s Christmas Food & Drink Festival on 12th and 13th December. A family favourite at Christmas time is always a show or a pantomime. We’re spoilt for

choice - Worthing’s traditional Pantomime will be Aladdin, on at the Connaught Theatre from 5th December. Jack Frost’s Frozen Christmas is an alternative to panto, on at the Pavilion theatre from December 12th (www. worthingtheatres.co.uk).You will be able to see Sleeping Beauty at Shoreham’s Ropetackle Arts Centre from 21st to 31st December - a family ticket will be available for just £40 (www. ropetacklecentre.co.uk).

Highdown Garden, Brooklands Pleasure Park, AMF Bowling Alley, Worthing’s Leisure Centres and SplashPoint Swimming Pool, The Lido, P.L.A.Y Indoor Adventure and English Martyrs Church to name just a few! Remember there’s nothing quite like wrapping up warm and getting out in the fresh

air and going for a walk or a bike ride. Worthing’s seafront promenade is really easy route if you’re a beginner or how about exploring the South Downs National Park? For what’s on, where to go and ideas for things to do please go to www.visitworthing.co.uk.

There’ll be Santa Dashes, Christmas Fairs, Festive Markets, Santa Grottos, and so much more. Just keep an eye on the VisitWorthing website for up to date information - www.visitworthing.co.uk/ whats-on Once Christmas and the New Year is over often the question is "What shall we do now?" Well there’s still plenty going on. Many of the areas visitor attractions are open all year; the Worthing Museum, Worthing’s Theatres,

Bonfire night safety For a safe bonfire night take a look at www.bonfire-night-safety.co.uk. It is a great looking website full of interesting, quirky facts and very good advice on firework safety. ABC Magazine - Sussex

Happy T

Skiing travelling

ravelling as a family, particularly when using an airport, can be stressful. Here are some hints and tips to help your holiday start smoothly.

On booking: Do make sure to give the airline relevant mobile numbers and upload the airline’s app if they have one. That way, they can send push notifications about delays and cancellations. Think ahead: No one likes a delay, but it can be made far less stressful with a bit of preplanning. Give some thought to food and drink, entertainment and uploading popular apps, games and download favourite cartoons and videos before you leave home.

everyone is kept well hydrated with water from one of the shops in the departure lounge. For babies and young children, think ahead to what meals will be needed if a shortish delay happens. If a longer delay happens you may need to be flexible about what you feed your baby.

Keep in the know: Knowledge is power. In the run up to your holiday it’s worth being aware of what is going on in the news. Also check the airline’s website or app regularly for further updates.

Entertainment: Depending on the children’s ages, have a host of activities prepared. Books, comics, pens and colouring books are a good start whilst a pack of cards is great for pairs, snap and a myriad of other games. Make sure phones and tablets are fully charged (and that a charger is on hand as well) and consider uploading some new games and apps for the journey.

Keep calm: Once a delay becomes apparent, it is really important to stay calm. Children are sensitive to anxiety and may well begin to play up. A delay is very much outside of passengers control so acknowledge that there is nothing to be done about it, and stay light hearted. The whole family will have an easier time.

Sleep: Try and keep babies and toddlers in their routine, perhaps by taking them for a stroll in their buggy. If possible, persuade toddlers to take their regular nap, and have a pashmina or scarf on hand to wrap them up if needed (even if you are travelling to a warm country, a jumper or scarf is useful for cold departure lounges).

Look around: Do have a scout around the airport to find out what there is for children. Look for play areas and good vantage points for watching the planes.

For very long delays or cancellations: Each airline has its own delay and cancellation policy, so do ask. When it looks like a long delay is likely then ensure that the ground crew know of any young children, and ask for an early decision, if possible. In the case of air traffic controller strikes, it well worth making alternative arrangements early on and cutting your losses.

Food and drink: Pack plenty of food, snacks and drink in the hand luggage and hold some back to cater for a last minute delay. Fluid is not allowed through security, so ensure that 94

ABC Magazine - Sussex

by Moira Clarke Esprit Holidays

as a family

irst things to think about when considering taking the children skiing - are your children gung-ho enough to give it a go? Is your baby or toddler sociable enough to join a nursery for the week? Are you, as parents, able to let them get on with it?

Then consider the practicalities • Choose an operator with plenty of experience and trust them - they have done it before. • Check flight times - are they a civilised hour for children? • Check distance/time from arrival airport resort - long transfers can be nauseous! • Choose an operator that offers a choice of destinations, not just limiting families to one or two particular resorts where they 'do' childcare. Just because you are skiing with children doesn’t mean you have to limit your horizons. Childcare questions to ask: • Does the resort or the Tour Operator provide childcare? • Are the child carers qualified? • What is the ratio of children to carers? • Is the nursery in the chalet, a

dedicated playroom or do you have to traipse your child round the resort? • Are the activity clubs just video clubs or do the children get out and about? • Any evening activities for children? You want to enjoy your dinner without worrying about the children. • Any babysitting provided? A night out without the children is a definite must on holiday! • What are the age ranges for the nursery or childcare? • What are the catering arrangements for the children? Nursery care for babies and toddlers Not many Tour Operators offer their very own dedicated nursery, so care and attention needs to be paid to what exactly you are booking for your infant. If it is a local resort nursery, do the carers speak English? Will

they follow your child’s routine? What will they do during the day? And will it be for five or six days? If it is your Tour Operator’s in-house nursery, check the qualifications of the childcare team and the location and facilities of the crèche. You don’t want just the living room floor of your chalet with a few toys you want a dedicated playroom with proper facilities for infants and toddlers. Ski school for children Many holiday packages offer children’s ski classes but it is important to know whether or not the classes are just run by the local ski school or if the operator has any special arrangements. Some operators just book children into the local classes, which may then have anything up to sixteen children in them and be taught in the local language! It is also worth checking whether the parents have to take to and collect their children from ski school as this

can severely restrict a parent’s time on the slopes. Non-skiing activity clubs Young children don’t have the stamina to ski all day so some sort of non-skiing club is necessary. Ensure it includes plenty of outdoor fun and isn’t just a video or computer club. Babysitting Some operators charge extra for babysitting, others don’t do it at all. If nightlife is important, try and check beforehand how much extra you may have to pay out in the resort to avoid hefty bills not budgeted for. Catering Check the eating arrangements. Children tend to be happier eating simpler meals all together and can’t last all evening waiting for an adult dinner at 8pm, regardless of Mum and Dad wanting to eat as a family! Location of properties Where the chalet or hotel is situated will have a big impact

on the enjoyment of the children. Ski in/out is ideal for parents but for children who will be in ski lessons it may be advisable to look for properties where the ski school meeting point is close by for their convenience rather than yours. Prices Skiing with children can be expensive. Some child friendly operators do not have child friendly prices! Carefully check for free child places and up to what age they are applicable, and also the number of child places allowed per family. Many operators only allow two children at a child’s price and thereafter charge adult prices. Always work out the whole package price before deciding which is better value - an operator with the most expensive adult price may turn out to offer the best whole family cost.

Often sharing the parent’s room gives the greatest discount for children but if you want separate rooms for the children you will not get much of a discount from some operators. Brochures/websites that do not give any child prices are questionable - do they make them up as they go along? Booking certain dates with some companies may give good offers - free children’s places, for example, but do remember to work out the whole package before getting excited about a great deal! www.espritski.com

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Family skiing

in Canada

by Louise Hudson Blog: onetwoski.blogspot.com Twitter: www.twitter.com/skiblogger

ki holidays can really brighten up the prospect of a long dreary winter and, at the same time, help to establish enduring family links. Having skied since toddlers, my sons have always associated the winter with activities the whole family could share, exhilarating sport by day and cosy fireplace evenings by night. And this doesn’t stop when they fly the nest. Even now, at nineteen and twenty two, they are still keen to leave city jobs and university friends to reunite with us in Canada for familiar family fun in an idyllic mountain environment. After many years in Europe, we discovered the delights of Canada where many of the hassles of taking children skiing have been ironed out. No more schlepping across a crowded alpine ski town to an out-of-the-way crèche for one son and then twenty minutes in the other direction for ski school. Canadian ski resorts such as Lake Louise in Alberta have topnotch babysitting facilities right on the slopes with ski school meeting place and practice area adjacent. There are free carparks and shuttle buses door-to-door from accommodation. And the same setup applies at nearby Sunshine Village and Mt Norquay, the other two resorts included in the Ski Big 3 ski pass. And with everything in English, there are no linguistic muddles - barring the odd dispute over transAtlantic pronunciation! A typical ski holiday in Europe would be in a chalet with catered food. Cute, cosy and great fun when it’s just the adults having civilized drinks and dinner every night but tougher to enjoy with energetic children in tow with all their different entertainment and culinary demands. In Canada most skiers opt for spacious hotel rooms or 96

ABC Magazine - Sussex

apartments - much larger than their European shoebox-sized counterparts - with proper cooking facilities and nearby supermarkets. Accommodation - whether a condo in Fernie Alpine Resort or a hotel such as the Lake Louise Inn - is linked closely to hot tubs, pools, iceskating, gyms, spas, bars and restaurants often featuring free live music. So there’s a great balance between self-catering and outside amusements. Other advantages of family skiing in Canada include the culture of the packed (‘bagged’ in Canadian) lunch. This saves an absolute fortune, enabling the occasional splurge on breakfast buffets in the main lodge or a luxury lunch at posher venues like Lake Louise’s Sawyers Nook, Fernie’s Lizard Creek or the panoramic pinnacle restaurant at Kicking Horse’s Eagle’s Eye. As well as its reputation for steep and deep, challenging slopes, Kicking Horse in British Columbia is also well set up for families, with comfortable condos at the Glacier Mountaineer Lodge overlooking shops, restaurant, ski school, ice rink, learning area, daycare and lift stations. Easy to pop back for lunch or the hot tub, the apartments are

spacious, many with washer/ dryers to keep the children’s gear clean and dry. Anyone used to skiing in Europe will be amazed at the lack of crowds, minimal lift lines and the feeling of space on the slopes. All good things when trying to keep tabs on your skiing or snowboarding offspring.

with few of those vertiginous hairpin bends - no need for the sick bag. Don’t assume, however, that Canadian ski areas are lower in altitude than Europe’s resorts. In fact, many Alberta and British Columbia resorts are higher, attracting dryer and fluffier snow over the long November to May season.

The European lift line has become legendary with various nationalities re-enacting World War II while pushing for prime position. There’s none of this in Canada. Long lines, particularly at quieter resorts such as Marmot Basin, are much less common and are managed by efficient ski hosts. This is a huge advantage when skiing with children who can get overwhelmed in a mass of jostling giants. This level of helpful customer service also extends to free guiding around the slopes, a great advantage for first-timers at a resort.

Websites: Lake Louise, Alberta www.skilouise.com Lake Louise Inn www.lakelouiseinn.com Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise www.fairmont.com/lake-louise Sunshine Village, AB www.skibanff.com Banff Mt Norquay, AB www.banffnorquay.com Fairmont Banff Springs www.fairmont.com/banffsprings Fernie Alpine Resort, British Columbia - www.skifernie.com Lizard Creek, Fernie www.lizardcreek.com Kicking Horse Alpine Resort, BC www.kickinghorseresort.com Eagle’s Eye, Kicking Horse - www. kickinghorseresort.com/wintermain/the-resort/eagles-eyereservations Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge www.fairmont.com/jasper Marmot Basin, AB www.skimarmot.com

With winter being low season in the Canadian Rockies, prices are low too, enabling families to stay at luxurious Fairmont hotels such as Banff Springs, Chateau Lake Louise or Jasper Park Lodge. Even the transfer from Calgary airports to resorts is preferable as roads are straighter than Europe

Making memories...

by Julia Lewis www.jwls.co.uk

s parents, we realise (sometimes too late) that our babies are not babies for very long. As they reach each significant milestone in their young lives we feel the need to document it, photograph it, capture it - somehow try to pause that moment, just for a second, to let it sink in - and before we know it, we are looking back and saying “Do you remember...”. The want of having something tangible becomes a necessity - or at least that’s the way it felt to me. Indeed, long before my two children were born 'keepsake fever' had already kicked in. I was taking photographs of my bumps at different stages in the pregnancy, and was recording how I was feeling every week in my 'Baby Record Book' - which I have to admit with a little more fervour for my first child than the second!

some dog-eared and worn, but all are equally beautiful in their own way. So, here you go, my list of my favourite keepsakes, in no particular order:

First of all, the 'Pregnancy Record Book' - well, how else are you going to remember all the crazy cravings? I remember spending ages drafting my birth plans to go inside (which I never ended up using), keeping all my scan pictures, as well as a food diary of all things!

In my house I have literally hundreds of keepsakes and they all take different forms - some kept on a shelf, some on the wall, some around my neck,

Once each of my children arrived, one of my friends bought me a 'Baby Record Book', the perfect place for first photos, space to write baby’s first gifts, and the names of our hospital visitors. I have

pictures of first outfits, favourite teddies and the usual, but more interestingly the price of a stamp at the time, the current number one single in the charts, and the name of the Prime Minister to name but a few! I also keep each child’s birth announcement, our hospital tags, first handprint and footprint and a lock of hair (mine were both born with a full head of hair!)

Admittedly, a bit of a hoarder, I have kept all of my daughter’s cards she received on her birth and made an A2 collage which spent many years having pride of place on her bedroom wall. Now that she’s older this has been replaced with other things, but I still enjoy looking at it, even though it’s been relegated to the garage for now!

I have an entire bookcase full to the brim with photo albums - I know that in this digital age most normal people don’t tend to print out every photo they have ever taken - but I do! I simply just can’t leave them on the computer. If they are worth keeping on file, then they are worth keeping in an album. So every few months I send them off and hours are then spent putting them into order and writing little comments, and then more hours again are spent browsing through the finished albums!

One of my favourite pieces in my daughter’s bedroom is the wall plaque we made on holiday in Tenby in a ceramic studio and café. It was really easy to do and doesn’t cost a fortune and we had it delivered to the house just a few days later. A lovely handprint which makes a great keepsake, as well as a memento of our wonderful seaside holiday. I was inspired to do a (continued over the page)

www.jwls.co.uk Precious memories captured in fine silver

ABC Magazine - Sussex

(continued from previous page)

ceramic piece having been given a gorgeous dish with my niece’s baby footprint just a few years before.

Drawings also make great keepsakes and are very inexpensive. When my husband started his new job, my son and daughter made him a 'Good Luck Daddy' picture for him to display in his new office. That was two and a half years ago, and it still sits proudly on his desk - something which they are thrilled about.

I have recorded my children’s handprints and footprints in many forms: from the first prints in their baby record books; to the outlines drawn on the inside of greetings cards; to the tiny fingers and toes captured in silver jewellery for me and silver cufflinks for my husband.

Not settling for just handprints and footprints, I am lucky enough to have my children’s fingerprints as well as their first signatures in shiny silver charms and pendants. What can I say? Like a magpie, I like all things shiny!

4D baby hand & foot casts with 'Keepsake Castings'

01444 881314

www.facebook.com/keepsakecastings.co.uk

Another gorgeous handprint keepsake I have is a handmade bauble which my kids - along with all their friends - created as a school fundraiser. The perfect choice - the school get much

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needed funds, and parents get a special something for the tree at Christmas.

Having lived in Wales for many years, being married to a patriotic Welshman and having bilingual children, we decided to have two beautiful hand-carved love spoons made as keepsakes for my daughter one with her date of birth, and the other with the date of her Christening. As well as all the above, I also keep keepsake boxes for each of my two children (nothing pretty to look at, just two cardboard boxes!) and in there go all the little bits and pieces that I know one day I will want to look back at; their birth announcements, school reports, drawings, paintings, photographs, school photos, handmade crafts, a first note to the tooth fairy, first letter to Santa, first shoes, cake toppers from their christening cakes. As I said - I am a bit of a hoarder! There are indeed hundreds more - handprints mugs, keepsake teddies or quilts made from baby’s first clothes - the list is limited only by your imagination. So get out there and make some more memories... BAC Julia owns Jwls, a company which specialises in creating silver keepsake jewellery from your children's fingerprints, handprints, footprints, handwriting and artwork. www.jwls.co.uk

So, if you'd like to see your child on the cover of ABC Magazine - simply contact any of the photographers advertising in this issue, have some photos taken and ask for them to be submitted for the cover star competition.

(For contact details see the page-by-page directory starting on page 156)

- the magazine for real people - it’s got everything in it! 98

ABC Magazine - Sussex

by Mary Everett a student for the past eighteen months

Marvellous mosaic W

hen we think of mosaic, our first thought may be of the Romans but in fact this art form dates back to the second half of the third millennium BC in Mesopotania where examples discovered were made from shell, stone and ivory.

Today, mosaic has developed into a popular craft that can be accessed by people of all ages and abilities. Mosaic, in simplicity, is an art form that places small pieces of material together to create a unified whole. This means that there are few boundaries to each unique creation. Work could be as small as an earring or as large as a garden path or wall. There are no limits to colour combinations or textures as items such as jewellery, photographs and unusual found objects can be incorporated to make interesting and unusual works of art. We may have past experiences of perceived failure in art as we aimed to produce a piece with a pre-conceived idea of the finished product, reproducing a photographic representation or managing tools with limited experience and skill. With mosaic this is not the case as it rules out all notion of limitation, of what is right or

wrong. You can enter a world of colour, shape and form that has few boundaries other than your own imagination.

Sometimes, in the midst of a busy family life it is easy to forget to give yourself dedicated time. A mosaic class can be fitted into a time in the day or evening that suits you and the benefits of setting aside a regular time in the week for learning, is truly worthwhile. Not only do you have the opportunity to reflect, meet other like-minded people, unwind and remind yourself that you have strengths to draw on but you also return to your family refreshed and revitalised. The beauty of mosaic is in its success. However ‘creative’ you judge yourself to be, you will be able to achieve a personal and beautiful finished item. Mosaic work using the ‘pique-assiette’ style is the perfect way to upcycle broken or chipped china. Translating as ‘plate-stealer’ this craft enables you to incorporate favourite or sentimental pieces which have become

damaged into new useable items. Individualised gifts can be made cheaply and will be completely unique.

Clare Rose

Sourcing materials for your mosaic can be an enjoyable activity in itself. You will find yourself visiting boot sales with renewed interest, seeking out items of vintage china, jewellery and objects to incorporate into your work. Boot sales, flea markets and charity shops become treasure troves where your creative imagination springs to life. If you feel mosaic may be the craft for you then seek out a class, set aside some time and just give it a try. You may surprise yourself!

Mosaic Classes

You don’t need to be 'arty' to make something beautiful! Come and have fun in our large, airy Brighton studio. 2 hour class - am or pm. Tools & tiles supplied. Beginners to experienced. 5 weeks course £60 10 weeks course £110 Gift vouchers available. 01273 541589 or 07746 003332 www.clarerosedesigns.co.uk

Local artist Clare Rose has been working with mosaic for the past twenty years. Today she is as passionate about this art form as when she first learned to master the basic techniques and she is equally passionate about sharing this enjoyment with others. Clare, who lives in Brighton, has been exhibiting mosaic art for the last eight years as part of the Fiveways Open House collective. The exhibits show clearly how diverse projects can be, with beautiful creations ranging from a simple plaque to ornately decorated mirrors, manikins or even musical instruments! Clare teaches mosaic locally to groups of up to twelve students working on their own individual projects, guiding them through the necessary techniques but in an environment which generates creativity. ABC Magazine - Sussex

Grannie Annie N

ow that winter is here the days are shorter as the nights draw in, but not for long, thank goodness, as the next couple of months will see the days lengthening again. It can be difficult finding things to do if you are stuck indoors. But hey, wait a minute, take a look around you perhaps you know another grandparent you could share a day with? Maybe you are lucky enough to live near a grandparents’ group, if not why not try setting one up yourself? Your local library or children’s centre are always keen to lend a hand. Of course, if you are able to get out there are lots of activities available, some of which are advertised here in this magazine. A winter walk is always lovely - looking for birds, collecting leaves, acorns and sticks which can then be used later on for sticking and gluing. How about making some homemade Christmas presents and cards - they are just simply the best. We still have an empty inverted yoghurt pot with a papier-mâché head adorned with yellow wool disguised as a fairy. She must be at least thirty years old and is still dragged out of the loft every year to take her place on the top of our Christmas tree. After Christmas save all your cards as they’re so useful for cutting up or sticking - playschools are always looking for resources. Children love creating things - so involve them in some cooking. A few years ago we took a group of children on a woodland adventure where they had the opportunity to cook sausages and marshmallows on sticks in a fire they had built themselves. One little girl had a burnt offering and declared it was the best sausage she had ever tasted. Back to the kitchen - cakes and biscuits are always a hit, so are chocolate cornflakes stuck together with golden syrup. Anyway, as we all know, licking the bowl can be the best bit. However, children should also be introduced to food preparation early on and be encouraged to try out different types of fruit and vegetables. 100

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Have you thought about a Teddy Bear’s picnic under the table covered with a tablecloth? Remember to send out an invitation to Teddy and his friends and then make healthy sandwiches for the picnic.

Microwave method Place all the ingredients in a plastic container and cook for one and a half minutes in a microwave. Stir the mixture and microwave again for one minute.

Add the 1/2 cup of salt and 1 cup of flour to a bowl stir in the water adding it slowly - you may not need all of the water. You want the dough to be dry - if it gets sticky add more flour. Knead the dough and then roll out and use as you want.

Also don’t forget, whilst in the kitchen, that children can have a hand in making their own play dough. There is also a salt dough recipe and you can also make your own bubble mixture.

Bubble solution • 250ml washing up liquid • 250ml glycerol (or glycerin) • 4 litres Water

Simple glue • 1/2 cup flour • 1/3 cup water

When they tire of ‘working’ in the kitchen, try creating pictures with root vegetables and citrus fruits dipped in paint. Make musical instruments using tins or yoghurt pots filled with a few dried beans or lentils and covered with tissue paper secured with an elastic band. A shoebox with a rubber band stretched over it makes a guitar. Stringing and painting macaroni jewellery can be great fun. You could try making some flashcards by drawing or sticking pictures onto card and adding relevant upper and lower case letters, or perhaps numbers. Yes, there’s a lot to do at home on winter days. Have fun.

Recipes

Play dough • 1 cup of plain flour • 1 cup of water • 1 tablespoon cooking oil • 2 teaspoons cream of tartar • half a cup of salt • food colouring (optional) Saucepan method Place all the ingredients in a saucepan at a low heat. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens to a firm dough texture.

Salt dough • 1/2 cup of salt • 1/2 cup of water • 1 cup of flour

...what Sussex parents really read!

Make promises

If you are looking for a great homemade present for friends or family, you could surprise them with a whole stack of ‘promises’ on homemade coupons.These work best on special types of paper such as handmade or highly textured paper. • Use scissors to cut your paper into rectangles, or tear the edges carefully to make the coupons look even more special. • Draw pictures of the things you want to give to people onto the rectangles. These could be treats (like ice cream) or events (like a trip to the park) or promises of things you’ll do (like tidy your room or give that person a hug). Project taken from The Pencil Book by Miri Flower, published by Frances Lincoln. See page 6 for your chance to win a copy of this lovely book!

s e i t r a P

by Sam Thomson Parties Of Their Own

Get the pros in or DIY?

y daughter Edie’s birthday was coming up and we decided that we would host a party to celebrate. She loves messy play and animals, so animals and messy play were the obvious theme. I thought it would be easy to do it myself, how wrong could I have been? • a large parrot to be painted I am a former teacher and • animal masks with animal run Class Of Their Own with print paper to cover them my sister and one area of our • jungle stickers. business is party planning. We employ a specialist party Preparation planner but I thought that I went shopping locally for being a former primary most items and then school teacher, ordered anything working part-time The week else online. and knowing a before the party Luckily, I was thing or two able to borrow I was busy cutting about parties, tables and and seeing out shapes of chairs but I how easily animal print paper still needed Abi seems to to stick onto the to buy a few come up with masks... items including brilliant parties, builder’s trays to put I would like to the sand and modelling experience organising clay in and a large tarpaulin to and running the party myself. cover the floor. The cost of the resources added up and we spent Planning approximately £100. All in all, Knowing how our planned it took me quite a few hours parties work, I decided that we searching for the best places to would set up everything so the children could come in and play buy items from, even resorting to borrowing the jungle animals from the moment they arrived. and safari trucks from my niece The plan would be to stop for and nephew! a party tea and cake, followed by parachute games and then The week before the party I traditional games. was busy cutting out shapes of animal print paper to stick onto The activities were: the masks and checking we had • a sand tray with jungle everything that was needed. animals • modelling clay with rolling On the morning of the party pins and animal cutters we loaded up the car with bits • a large cardboard house with (continued over the page) painting

www.pottythepirate.com Equity Member

All Ages

POTTY THE PIRATE - MAGICAL ENTERTAINER Magic, puppets, balloons and sing-along tunes

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and pieces and did two runs back and forth, taking it to the church hall. In all, I spent about eight hours planning the party. It was enjoyable, but very timeconsuming.

was with other family members but it would have been great to have got stuck in with the messy play with her. The other thing was that I didn’t get to chat with friends and family members as I was so busy overseeing the whole party.

The alternative I could have made a phone call On the day to a party planner, had a chat I went to the hall first with my with them about what I wanted husband, both grandpas, two the party to be like, asked them aunties and cousin whilst Edie to find a venue and organise had a power nap with her nana. We were all busy setting up half food, and that would have an hour before everyone arrived. been that! There was lots to do, preparing Would we do it ourselves food, tying balloons up around again next year? the room, putting tables out, setting up the activity tables and It was great to know that we had planned and carried off a great putting the sand and modelling party but it was hard work (both clay out. Edie turned up ten in advance and on the minutes before everyone day) and took a lot else, refreshed by In of planning and her nap. all, I spent thinking time in about eight advance. The guests hours planning started the party. It was On the day, arriving and I was so busy everyone was enjoyable, but overseeing that busy playing, very timeeverything went painting, consuming. smoothly that I moulding and just didn’t get to play mask making. As with the birthday girl and the children were young, we wanted them to be able to be chat to friends. get involved right from the start. In future, I would definitely We had made the decision to cater for the parents too, so that employ a party organiser so that they could plan the theme, added to the preparation as we activities, do the thinking, buy provided wine and snacks. all resources and then on the day, lead the party. For most of the party, I was busy ensuring all the children It would be great to know the were having a good time, the running of the party was in parents were catered for and safe hands leaving my husband, making sure all the activities myself and family to enjoy the were running smoothly. There party and only needing to do a was little respite as I then little bit of the clearing up at the needed to organise bringing end and finishing off those last the party food out and then organising the final party games bits of cake! BAC and the parachute games. My Class Of Their Own - fun for everyone! biggest regret was that I didn’t After-school and holiday clubs, get much time to spend with babysitting and parties. Edie - to enjoy the party with www.classoftheirown.com her. She had a great time and

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ABC Magazine - Sussex

Party fun!

inter can be a difficult time to have a party, but hopefully we can help you with some ideas to make it a wonderful day for your little one.

have the party at At least in the depths home, or hire of winter, you somewhere. know you are Talk to your All parties very unlikely to child about what for children have the party they would like, need a focus outside, so and book it whether it you can plan be games, accordingly, as soon as a magician, rather than possible. mobile zoo worrying about or science whether it will be experiments! Talk nice weather or not. As to your child about what they every issue of ABC Magazine would like, and book it as goes to press, there seems to be soon as possible. Everyone more and more fantastic ideas and everything gets booked for childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parties, so there up very early on for Christmas really is a very wide choice for and New Year, so if you have a keeping the children amused. party around the festive period do book as much as possible as The first things you need to do soon as you can. are to book a venue and choose the entertainment. You could (continued over the page)

Personalised celebration cakes for children and adults

01273 420283 www.buddyshomebakery.co.uk info@buddyshomebakery.co.uk

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Take a look at Mike's article on page 12 'Engaging your early years child in music education' written by Mike Hayhurst, Music with Mike.

(continued from previous page) Entertainers can come to your home or venue. You could have You may decide to stay with a pirate, reptiles, a disco, a mad the traditional and go for party games, which younger children, scientist, singing and dancing, puppets or even the chance to in particular still love. Plan in play in a rock band! Have a advance what you are going good look through this to play and estimate magazine and talk roughly how long You to friends; there each game will really is a wide take. It is best may decide plethora of to always to stay with the entertainments have one or traditional and go for nowadays. two games party games, which Many of in reserve younger children, the regular in case in particular activities that everything your child moves quicker still love. attends, such as than you thought music, drama, sports, or parents are late and dance groups, may offer picking children up. You parties. Booking your party could combine this with arts through a company you already and crafts, which also works use has the added advantage of well in calming children down, you knowing that your child if necessary. will enjoy the entertainment and will have already established There are many forms of a relationship with the class childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s party entertainers leader. from the more usual to the weird and wonderful. Makeover Ceramics studios are perfect parties are always popular with in the winter. Children can sit girls; little ones can look like alongside their friends and paint princesses and the older ones a chosen item such as a teddy like pop stars! This time of year bear, mug or trinket box. Most is great for indoor play centres. ceramics studios now offer other Most offer a party package whereby everything is taken care crafts as well, such as mosaics and jewellery making. You can of including the food, invites normally bring in your own and party bags, or you may just food, or organise a delivery from decide to take a few children a local cafĂŠ or restaurant. and organise the food Many of them have yourself. Children an arrangement can run around There are with the and have fun many forms of nearest pizza with their childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s party restaurant friends for entertainers from and you may an hour or get a small two, and the more usual to discount. then have the weird and party food wonderful. Whatever you afterwards. decide to do, at this Similarly, most time of year make sure leisure centres allow you book everything as soon as you to hire the swimming pool you can and have fun! BAC and inflatables, and have a birthday tea afterwards.

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ABC Magazine - Sussex

Sneaky tricks

by Isobel Smith Pinkle’s Puppet Circus

ere are some top tips from a party professional to create a totally awesome party that your child will remember forever, and which requires minimal effort.

Do the things you enjoy and cheat the things you don’t! Box clever, spend time on the things that give you pleasure and focus most energy into the bits children will really notice.

sprayed stones) for children to collect and hand in for a grand count-up at the end, then the tokens can be fairly shared between all the children and exchanged for sweets or treats.

Help them to make the swords at the start of the party (use pre-cut cardboard and assemble with gaffer tape) and make human-sized towers of boxes for them to attack (wine boxes from supermarkets are perfect for this).

Give your party a structure Plan an activity for everyone as soon as they arrive; the main focus could perhaps be a party entertainer, puppet show or games and activities; then food, cake and home. Keep an extra game or two up your sleeve just in case you have extra time!

You will need: • Lots of tokens to hide. • Containers for children to collect the tokens in - bags, paper cups, or baskets. • A large bowl or basket for the final count up of tokens. • A large bowl of treats.

• Expert tip: provide tinfoil and stick-on jewels for those more inclined to art than fighting.

Make a big deal of counting each child’s tokens, dividing them out fairly and the great exchange for treats!

Wrap mini gifts or sweets in tinfoil twisted into fish shapes. Securely attach a paper clip to each fish’s nose.

Cardboard sword fight (outside) If you have boisterous party guests consider letting them loose with swords!

Scatter the fish on a blue cloth sea and sit the children around the edge.

If you have the party outside (in the garden, park or wood) a simple treasure hunt as children arrive can become the main activity of the party. (see my article in the summer issue of ABC for more outside activities). Games and entertainment Let them have fun! Treasure hunt (inside or outside) • Expert tip: To avoid squabbles hide tokens (for example, playing cards or gold Find all this info at

igital www.abcmag.co.uk

Gnome's fishing game (inside or outside) A great alternative to 'pass the parcel'!

Clare Rose

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Looking for fun, flexible, part-time work? Pinkle’s Puppet Circus is recruiting now. We provide mesmerizing puppet shows and face painting for children’s parties and events. You will need to be friendly and enthusiastic, passionate about delivering excellence and available to work weekends. Full training will be given to successful applicants - contact Isobel: pinklespuppetcircus@gmail.com Visit our website for more information: www.pinklespuppetcircus.com

Children’s Mosaic Parties Give your child a party with a difference! All partygoers will leave with a fantastic and original piece of their own artwork created in our large and airy Brighton studio. 2 hour party including all materials, cake and juice. £150 - max 12 children

01273 541589 or 07746 003332 www.clarerosedesigns.co.uk

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Pre-make a fishing rod from a short garden cane and string and fasten a strong magnet ‘hook’ to the string. Proceed as in 'pass the parcel' - passing the rod from child to child, when the music stops the child holding the rod fishes a gift; continue until everyone has had a go. Sneaky catering If you love cooking and catering then take time to enjoy preparing party food. If not, keep it simple and take the pressure off by arranging the

party to avoid meal times, for example, 10am - 12pm, or 2pm - 4pm. Try these tips:

A packet of crisps each will keep hungry children going until the hotdogs are ready.

Hotdogs Most sandwiches end up in the bin, hotdogs don’t. Cook them in advance and keep them hot in a flask.

Put out bowls of grapes and biscuits and children will love a choc-ice or ice-lolly for dessert (will survive wrapped in a cold box if necessary).

Pre-cut hotdog rolls or baguettes and invest in a huge bottle of ketchup. Serve in napkins, then there is no need for plates.

Provide fruit juice in individual boxes, and jugs of water.

• Expert tip: supermarkets sell frozen veggie dogs, most children can’t taste the difference.

Look after the adults too if you want to encourage them to stay and help. Offer tea, beer, wine and extra hotdogs. If you establish this tradition early on and you’ll never be short of an extra pair of hands!

Add decorations to suit your theme and taste, for example: • A snow scene with plastic polar bears or penguins. • Strawberries, blueberries and cream. • A plastic soldier battle (add strawberry jam for extra gruesome effect!) • A stockcar smash-up - a toy car/cake pile-up. • Plastic animals/mini figures/ fingerboards/finger bikes • Expert tip. Be fair, either provide a toy for every guest or for the birthday child only.

Save the cake for the end. • Expert tip. Hand out the cupcakes individually and make sure all the cocktail sticks are removed. Have fun!

Spectacular tower cake Make cupcakes or buy them in packs of twelve and assemble them into a huge wonky tower using cocktail sticks to secure. Sieve icing sugar all over the tower and dust with cake glitter. Top with an ice fountain (indoor firework) for an awesome effect.

A BC

Isobel Smith is passionate about children’s parties. She set up Pinkle’s Puppet Circus to introduce children to her enchanting style of puppetry. Pinkle’s Puppet Circus performs in the sitting rooms, stables, village halls, marquees and theatres of East Sussex, to audiences young and old who never fail to be charmed by Pinkle and her extraordinary circus friends. www.pinklespuppetcircus.com

Watch out for Isobel Smith’s feature in the next edition of ABC Magazine - 'Partying on a shoestring'. Excellent ideas from a party professional that will impress both your children (and your bank manager).

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Winter birthdays

here are plenty of ways to throw a great children's party in the depths of winter. You could stock up on lots of arts and craft materials and have a craft party at home. Alternatively, some of the craft classes that are run for children also organise birthday parties and do it all for you. Many children, artistic or not, will enjoy a party at a ceramics studio. These studios no longer just do painting and glazing; at many of them you can now make jewellery, decoupage or mosaics, for example. Most will have a party package whereby you may get invitations, drinks and so on. Often, you can take your own party food, or some have an arrangement with a nearby restaurant who will deliver food. You can also have very active and energetic parties such as an indoor climbing party or a swimming party. Play centres are great for younger children. Children can run, jump and climb with their friends. They will use up their energy having a great time, and you may even be able to have a nice cup of coffee and a chat whilst they do! These types of parties will have specific party packages or you could simply take a few children, which would work out cheaper.

Another option is to hire your local hall and organise a party of traditional games which, if planned well, is always good fun, particularly if combined with a bouncy castle. Alternatively, you could book some kind of entertainment, such as a science party, disco, magician or even a mini zoo! Ice skating is a lovely treat at this time of year. You may have an indoor, all-year round ice (continued over the page)

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rink near you or take advantage of the seasonal ice rinks that pop up at all kinds of wonderful venues such as the Natural History Museum or Brighton Pavilion. Whatever type of party you are organising, it is essential to find out exactly what is included in the price. Some companies will do everything for you, others will include certain items such as food or party bags but you may need to provide the cake, for example. If you get the details in writing, there will be no nasty surprises! At this time of year most parents are incredibly busy so if you need to call on the professionals to do most of the party for you, there is no need to feel guilty. Your children really aren't going to mind if the cake was made by the local bakery rather than you, and no one will ever know if you get someone else to do the party bags!

A major disadvantage of having a birthday anytime from midNovember to the New Year is that everywhere and everyone gets booked up very early. So, make sure you book everything as far ahead as you can; after all, you do know the date of your child's birthday well in advance! If you can't quite find the time or energy to organise a fullblown party, you can keep it simple with a treat with just a couple of friends such as: • Swimming at a different pool to the one you normally use, perhaps one with slides and inflatables. • A visit to the cinema, as often they have a children's club at the weekend for a fraction of the normal price. • Bowling and a burger. BAC

...what Sussex parents really read!

Do you see yourself in your children?

by Ericka Waller www.muminthesouth.co.uk

never wanted to have daughters. I brooded over mini versions of my husband. Brown eyes like pools of chocolate. I never considered the idea of mini versions of me. I did not want to see myself reflected in someone else’s face. The thought of passing on my flaws and failings and fears horrified me. I wanted to harvest perfection, and I was so far from it. As they grew, I felt cross when people likened parts of their daughters to themselves. I would think, “Why do they have to be like you? Why can’t they be themselves?” I don’t feel that way anymore.

I’m proud to see my temper in my middle daughter. She doesn’t take any nonsense. If someone hurts her she will make sure they know it. Good. Thing-Three screams until I go and find her tiny plastic Dalmatian before she will sleep, and I smile to myself in the dark as I search under covers. A dog with a bone, just like her mother. I never give up, may she never give up either. Thing-One and I spend hours drawing The Faraway Tree. I see my imagination seep out on her white paper. I feel so grateful for 108

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my unconventionality. She will always have a world in her head that she can travel to whenever this one lets her down. I never thought I would be a single mum raising three small daughters. I used to be scared of my own shadow. Now I lock the doors at night, no longer afraid of the dark. I’m shedding off my failings and flaws and emerging, butterfly beautiful. I am a mother, a role model, a woman, a fighter. I am going to fill my children’s hearts with love and their heads with the belief that they are good enough.

in the worms and decay. Now They can do anything. They I dance upon the same grass are in control of themselves with my daughters and their lives. Their following behind happiness is inside Their me. My little size them, a gift to three feet stamp themselves, happiness is back down the never to be inside them, a ground I once given away. gift to themselves, dug up to hide beneath. When I was never to be I don’t need first on my given away. to hide. I don’t own, I would need to cry. I have wait until my three daughters who daughters were think I made the moon. finally asleep, and then This is not a responsibility to I’d crawl up the garden and run away from. It’s an honour scream into the grass, pulling at tufts, mud scraping beneath my to embrace. nails. I wanted to bury myself

Swim away the winter blues V

icki Bates, from the little swim school, tells us why playing in the pool with your child is just the thing to do on a chilly winter’s day! As the nights draw in and it gets a bit cold and drizzly we are left wondering what activities we can do with our little ones that don’t rely on the good old British weather! I know people often associate swimming with summer, but I think it’s a great winter activity. A trip to the pool to play some great games with your little one is just the ticket to banish those autumn/ winter blues. The exercise will produce some lovely endorphins

while keeping you fit and, hopefully, fostering or re-enforcing a love of water, plus you and your little one get to do some great one-to-one bonding too - what’s more to want on a winters day? At our swimming school we specialise in teaching children from one to five and truly believe that the most important single factor in terms of safety in the water and propensity to

learn to swim is that babies and children are happy in the water. We also know that one of the best ways to make even the most reticent swimmer happier in the water is to play in the water with lots of smiles, hugs and praise. When children are playing, they focus so much on the game that they often forget that they are getting their face wet or going under the water a common sticking point with

children of this age, along with not liking swimming on their back or failing to kick their legs in the water, to name just a couple of issues! The following games are great for encouraging little ones that are a little reticent to get in the water or have something specific they don’t like to do once in there. Babies, toddlers and preschoolers love repetition and, (continued over the page)

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in this case, the repetition of nursery rhymes reassures them while giving them cues as to what is happening next. Bubble blowing warm up It’s often a good idea to start by blowing bubbles on the surface of the water - you can hold your child against you and blow bubbles together - you can then try to blow a toy like a small plastic boat along and then try it with two or more toys, and have a race with each other! Humpty dumpty sat on the wall... We love this one at our swim school. Sit your little one on the side of the pool, hold their arms and sing “Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall, Humpty Dumpty had a great fall”, at which point you splash your little one into the water, or if they are happy under the water you can go all the way under. Ring a ring o’ roses “Ring a ring o’ roses, a pocket full

of posies, atishoo, atishoo, we all singing: “It’s raining, it’s pouring, fall down.” Move your child the old man is snoring, he went from side to side while you sing, to bed and bumped his head and and when you get to “we all fall couldn’t get up in the morning.” down”, either move them closer Move along to their toes and to the water or take them under repeat the song as necessary the water. This one is while moving over their lovely if you have tummy and up to A the child facing their heads where guaranteed you and the you pour the way to make parent or carer water over their them smile and goes under heads and face. the water too A guaranteed finish off the game - if you are way to make is to let them pour happily going them smile and water over your under the water finish off the head... with your little game is to let them one, it sends a great pour water over your positive signal to them. head - while singing to you, of course! It’s raining, it’s pouring It’s good to do this one with This is the way... your child resting on your This is one of our favourites as shoulder with their legs and it can be adapted to encourage body out in front of them being anything that your little one is held up by the buoyancy of the a bit reluctant to do! water. Start by holding your child Start by filling a small watering with their head resting on your can with pool water and then shoulder with their legs out in gently empty the water out front and you supporting them over their hands to start while at the bottom or back. (continued on page 112)

Swimming fun

any swimming classes offer intensive or ‘crash’ swimming courses over the school holidays which are a great way to quickly introduce your children to swimming, or to improve their swimming. By taking classes every day for a week or two, children will rapidly become accustomed to the water which makes swimming much more fun. It is also a good way to keep children fit and active during the holidays, when their normal lessons may have stopped.

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This position is great for encouraging back floating and swimming on their back as well as teaching kicking:“This is the way we kick our legs, kick our legs, kick our legs, this is the way we kick our legs early in the morning” (you can change the time of day too if you are feeling clever!) Move your child in the water so you are holding them facing the water to sing: “This is the way we paddle our arms...”

“This is the way we blow big bubbles...” “This is the way we go under water...” Twinkle, twinkle little star This is another of my favourites as it really works - my son amazed me by back floating unaided when he was nine weeks old! Now, I can’t promise that but I can promise that this is a great nursery rhyme game for encouraging confident back floating. Again, start with your little one’s head resting

For a lifetime's enjoyment in the water

on your shoulder. While singing, put your spare arm in the air to make a star up in the sky, encouraging them to look as high as possible and gently lowering your shoulder and them away from your shoulder. This is great if you are in a private pool as you can get someone to blow bubbles above your little one’s head to make it even more fun. As you move your child away from your shoulder, you can start to support their head by cupping it in your hand, all the while encouraging a star shape and back floating. If your little one is confident, they will be able to back float from a young age, which is a great water safety aid. London Bridge is falling down This is a great game to encourage swimming underwater and can be played by children, young and old! To start, two adults or older children stand in the water holding hands above their shoulders to form a bridge. The other players walk or swim below the bridge one-by-one. Every time someone passes under the bridge it is lowered so that eventually the children have to swim under the water to cross the bridge.

• Swimming lessons from birth • Beginners, intermediate & advanced • Pools in Brighton, Clayton & Hurstpierpoint • regular professional underwater photo shoots - all swim schools welcome

01273 831382 www.flippersandfins.org annevilla1@aol.com flippersandfinsclubltd

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Now, if your little one is not quite so little, or a bit more experienced in the water, you can try adapting classic playground games to the water. 'Sharks and Mermaids' or 'Sharks and Minnows' is an in-pool version of the children’s classic game of 'tag'. 'The shark' starts at one end of the pool and the mermaids or minnows at the other. When the shark shouts “Go!” the mermaids or minnows swim to the shark’s side of the pool, tag the wall and swim back to their side of the pool while the shark tries to tag them. Once a player is tagged, he becomes the shark. This is a great game as can be played with any number of children, and when the children can swim, in any depth of water. So, if the weather is a little uninviting outside and you fancy a good play and some exercise why not pack a bag and head off to the pool? BAC For more information or to book some classes, you can visit www.thelittleswimschool.co.uk or call the little swim school on 01273 207992. Images by Scott Sutton Underwater Photography

The benefits of

swimming

he benefits of swimming are numerous, proven by extensive research. Here we outline a few reasons why it is a good idea to start swimming classes at an early age. Reflexes Newborn babies have a number of inbuilt reflexes, which can be well utilised to aid early movement in the water and learn basic safety skills.

The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;gagâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; reflex is an natural involuntary response that causes the windpipe to be sealed so that water does not enter the lungs. This reflex is thought to (continued over the page)

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Development Babies are at their most receptive in the period immediately following birth. The pool is a multi-sensory environment, opening babies minds up to whole new experiences and is a great opportunity Swimming for parent baby allows babies bonding as and toddlers to it involves move independently lots of eye through the water and physical long before they contact.

disappear sometime in a child’s first year, but means babies can naturally hold their breath underwater before learning to control it through the exercises in classes.

The swimming or ‘amphibian’ reflex causes a baby’s arms and legs to move and propel them can crawl or through the walk... water and this Swimming allows reflex is thought to babies and toddlers disappear between six to move independently and twelve months. This makes through the water long before it look like a newborn can swim they can crawl or walk, aiding under the water. Introducing a development of muscles, baby to water whilst this reflex coordination, balance, lung is still present helps them to capacity, stamina and the brain develop their own voluntary to mention just a few! movements in water rather than sinking motionless when the Personalities are further reflex disappears. developed as the child tries out new skills in the water - the The righting reflex is present in more cautious children learn a baby over four to five months to take risks as they attain new old and is demonstrated when skills and the more boisterous a baby tries to lift its head children can become more upright when lying on their prudent! Older children enjoy back or front, which can cause achieving new goals, making frustration. Floating exercises new friends and becoming used in baby swimming classes independent, so increasing their avoid the stimulation of this self-confidence. BAC reflex so that the baby remains Taken from www.splashnswim.co.uk relaxed and will really enjoy swimming and floating on their backs. By understanding these reflexes and working with them, you can lead your baby from their first splashes through to swimming, with a lot of fun along the way!

...what Sussex parents really read!

Increase in scarlet fever

ublic Health England (PHE) has reported a continued significant increase in scarlet fever notifications across England.

Whilst most cases of scarlet fever are mild and will be resolved within a week, continued vigilance by healthcare professionals remains essential due to uncommon but possible complications. Dr Theresa Lamagni, PHE’s head of streptococcal infection surveillance, said: “PHE urges people with symptoms of scarlet fever, which include a sore throat, headache and fever accompanied by a characteristic rash, to consult their GP. Scarlet fever should be treated with antibiotics to reduce risk of complications. Once children or adults are diagnosed with scarlet fever we strongly advise them to stay at home until at least twenty-four hours after the start of antibiotic treatment to avoid passing on the infection.” Scarlet fever is mainly a childhood disease and is most common between the ages of two and eight years. It was once a very dangerous infection, but has now become much less serious. There is currently no vaccine for scarlet fever. Patient information is available from NHS Choices: www.nhs.uk/conditions/scarlet-fever

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by Julie-ann James Aquababies

Parent and baby aqua fit

Get fit and lose weight whilst having fun

qua aerobics is an excellent method of exercise which improves the fitness of the heart and lungs, tones the body and reduces fat. It is an ideal form of post-partum exercise as it is kinder to joints and the water supports some of the extra pregnancy weight. It's not only good for entertained and it’s newborns, it’s also a great bonding Working great for toddlers! process. out with other It’s a great way likeminded to introduce Working out your child to the with other people is a good water, it keeps likeminded people motivator. the younger age is a good motivator. group completely Bodyweight issues are

important to postnatal women and exercising in a homogenous group helps to reduce selfconsciousness. Aqua aerobic programs also offer a social outlet for parents to meet other parents with young children; commonly cited as a valuable experience for new parents.

Benefits for parents: Aqua aerobics is an excellent method of exercise which improves cardio vascular fitness and tones the body whilst increasing the metabolic rate which helps to promote weight loss. It is an ideal form of post(continued over the page)

Aqua aerobics for you and fun water confidence for your child

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Becoming a single parent

by Erica Waller www.muminthesouth.co.uk

used to say: “I don’t know how single parents manage”. Now I know, because I am one. My life as a mum is different now. It’s (even more) full on, on my own. There is no one to warm the milk while I run the bath, or help look for the tiny Dalmatian ThingThree can’t sleep without. No one to sort the dishwasher, laundry or run the hoover round. I’m a whirlwind, writing to do lists on loo rolls, making packed lunches at midnight, losing track of days. And then it’s his turn to have the girls, and I go from having children hanging from each limb, all wanting me at once, to not being a mum at all. There is no in-between, no packed lunches to make. On the days they do not sleep here, I can’t work out which is worse, the shape they leave in their unmade beds, or the pristine readiness of covers straightened for their return. The days I do not have them are black holes that I fall into. I go out, and I smile, sleep, and laugh, but all the while an invisible thread stretches taut and painful, pulling me and my thoughts back to my babies. I know this will not always be the case. Dust will settle, cogs will turn, the sun will rise and set, and I will rise and resettle with it. My experience as a mother has changed forever though, and a part of me will always feel I failed. I used to think I knew what my future would hold, now I have no idea. I’m telling myself that this is exciting. Don’t get me wrong. I’m nowhere near ready to ‘get back in the game’, and even if I was, I’ve got three young kids, Rheumatoid Arthritis, a stomach like a pair of testicles and another man’s name tattooed on my left buttock. I’m what’s known as ‘damaged goods’ on the meat market. Luckily for me, my babies are like water-soaked sponges of love, that can never be wrung out. They cover me with kisses and iridescent lip-gloss (which does nothing for my complexion). They are always up for a snoggy-pops... when they are here. I hold them in my arms and inhale them deeply, imprinting them inside before each handover. They go to a distant land that I don’t know about, and they come back in different clothes and hairbands. They seem bigger each time they return. They never come back smelling the same. I have to scrub them until they smell like mine again, sloshing soap in my eyes to hide tears of grief for the seconds of their lives that I missed. 116

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partum exercise as the water reduces pressure which supports the body and is kinder to joints. Additional benefits of aqua exercise are: • Suitable for non-swimmers • Particularly suited to people who carry excess weight as the water partially covers the body (for the body conscious) and improves body image whilst providing support • Increases relaxation and the range of body movement • Blood pressure can be reduced • Improves posture It is important to recognise the many benefits that can be achieved through postnatal exercise but it is also important to be aware of the risks involved. With safety as a priority, many health benefits can be achieved. Exercise programmes are specifically designed to minimise these risks with safety as a priority. We strongly recommend mothers wait until their six week postnatal checkup before attending classes. Benefits of working out together: Bonding - Parents who are able to set aside time to exercise together with their babies will find that bonding through exercise creates a special, new and exciting quality time to spend together. Sight - There are so many new experiences for the baby to see. Sound - Babies love the sound of the human voice which is why classes are designed with

lullabies and nursery rhymes to help engage the child. Touch - For babies, body contact is really important, not only as a source of heat and comfort but with certain points of touch you can teach a child to listen and to register, as touch can help to reassure and relax a child. Aqua classes are also a fantastic social experience for both parent and child. Benefits for baby Water is a great equalizer for babies and they can achieve some level of independence before they can crawl. The water provides support and they love the fun and freedom of the whole experience. It will also encourage physical, social and psychological development and enhance their awareness. Aqua aerobics also: • Builds water confidence • Teaches basic breathing exercises • Provides some of the basic foundations of swimming • Encourages physical, social and psychological development • Enhances awareness • Provides water safety training • Improves eating and sleeping patterns! • Makes exercising with your child fun! BAC Please see Aquababies ad on previous page. Aquababies has been pioneering Baby Aquatic programs since 1989. Julie-ann James spent years researching and now works as a consultant and has set up swim schools in China, Turkey, Jordon, Cyprus, Malta and many more countries.

Learning is a journey

by Stuart Allison Samurai Martial Arts

earning is a journey and it is said, “Every journey starts with a single step”. But the big questions are: What to learn? And when to take the steps?

If we think about it, the first step has already been taken, because we have each been born; wow, what a step that was! Forget about Neil Armstrong walking on the moon, being born into this world... now that is the massive step for humankind and each one of us is taking those steps every day. We are completely unique, a one-off special edition, making our own history each day. If we ever get discouraged by the seemingly endless, uphill struggles that we face daily, just remember that the hardest part has already been done for us; and every hill we face has the stroll down the other side to enjoy. A miraculous series of steps of biology, breath and human spirit have all made that big step to get us here now. Remind yourself about that when you look at your children and what a miracle they are! When you next look at your reflection, remember what a miracle you are! The very thought of it all is mind- boggling. It’s a good job

we didn’t have to make any of those assembly decisions; the hard part has been taken care of by forces so much greater than us. Saying a heartfelt thank you to those powers involved is a wonderful thing. Try it each morning for a week or so; however bleary eyed you feel, just do it for a week. It makes a difference. Each of us pick up where the powers of creation step back for a bit. We have to start somewhere and whatever intellectual or religious beliefs each of us have, life seems to be a journey through experiences. It’s hard to imagine that each of us, in heart or spirit has journeyed from some place prior and is getting ready to go on to some place else; maybe with the added bounty of treasure of all we have lived, loved, and experienced. We are learning as we go; a part of us beyond our intellect is in some way developing; gathering experience and maturing along this part of an eternal path.

Learning as we go through life involves is a delicate selection of choices, rejection reviews, and utilisations of what we experience. Our attitudes are shaped along this journey; attitudes will be determined a lot by the people we share time with and look up to and by the choices that we make. Those choices will determine the results that we get in each endeavour and each adventure along the journey. As parents we wish for a good life for our children. We need to help them to become a complete human being, becoming strong enough to cope with life’s ups and downs, whilst being gentle enough to appreciate its beauty. Frustrations in life are inevitable but changing the frustrations into fascination - now that is an art of life. If you walk with your children in the countryside, it will require effort, because it has its hills to climb and conquer, but it also has its summits to enjoy and breathtaking views to behold and inspire; along every

step there is a chance to take note of some little miracle of nature! Share some quality time and observe the wonders that are present in the countryside. It can stimulate the mind to wonder at the power of all that made these things possible. The elements had to be present, the forces of nature had to contribute their energy and vigour to stimulate growth. By some outstanding number of odds, the seeds themselves had to have been pollinated and then the plants had to grow. Then the seeds will contribute to the next generation so that the miracle can continue. What a beautiful subject life is to learn about! Stuart Allison is chief instructor at The Samurai Centre, 49 New England Street, Brighton teaching Ninpo and Samurai Martial Arts passed on to him from an authentic Japanese Master. For information on classes for you or your children please go to www.samuraibrighton or call 01273570940

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Fitting in fitness

by Joe Wynne Freedom Leisure

hink you don’t have time for fitness? Then think again because short duration, high intensity interval exercise has been found to bring greater health benefits than low intensity, long duration exercise. Researchers from the University of Birmingham and Liverpool John Moores University found that three thirty minute sessions of interval training made bigger changes to vital physiological processes that could lead to decreased blood vessel damage and reduce the chances of developing diabetes and high blood pressure. nature of the exercise, the boost The trick in your metabolism/calorie The trick behind a successful burning continues for several thirty minute workout is to hours after your session ends. hit a high intensity at regular intervals during the session. It is Starting steady these bursts of explosive, highLaunching straight into HIIT energy moves that really make the difference. There are various sessions if you are not used to exercise is NOT recommended. types of high intensity interval training but they usually involve This type of training works best for young people and repeated short bouts those with a good of high intensity level of fitness. ‘all out’ effort If you’re not You should followed by able or keen build up the rest periods. intensity to join classes, A classic gradually - so example is you could set up you might cycling as fast your own circuit start with ten as you can on at the gym. seconds ‘all out’ an indoor bike and two minute for thirty seconds recovery, the, fifteen and then cycling at a seconds ‘all out’, then more manageable pace to twenty seconds and so on. Use ‘recover’ for a few minutes. The the speed counters on your high intensity sprint will boost gym equipment fitness bikes, your metabolism, fire up your cross trainers, treadmills and muscles and raise your heart rowers have them. Clock your rate. You will burn calories at an amazing rate and, due to the ‘top speed’ and then go all out 118

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to hit it again - or surpass it each time you repeat your high intensity effort. A few ideas More and more gyms and clubs are offering thirty minute classes devised by some of the world’s top trainers. Classes to look out for on your gym timetable are the Les Mills GRIT and Insanity classes, Synergy 360 Express and the brand new Armageddon circuit. Many indoor cycling classes are thirty minutes and those gyms that have installed the new MyRide programme have the added flexibility of its ‘virtual’ programme that you can set up and follow in the studio whenever you’re ready to ride. Devise your own circuit If you’re not able - or keen - to join classes, you could set up your own circuit at the gym. Ask a personal trainer or gym instructor to give you some

ideas: but basically you’re looking for a series of exercises that will work your whole body within the half hour session. Typically, you’ll do four sets of four exercises for thirty seconds each. Therefore each set of four will take two minutes. You should repeat each set three times, totalling six minutes, before moving on to the next set. Take a one or two minute break before doing your next set of four exercises and so on. Your aim is to get more of each move (known as reps) done in each thirty second slot - so you’re working harder but not for longer. Having a number and goal in mind gives immediate focus - and is highly motivating. Another way to work harder rather than longer is to combine moves - so rather than raising dumbells in one exercise and doing lunges in another, put the two together. The compound move not only completes ‘two (continued on page 120)

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exercises for the price of one’ but the combined effort expends more energy (and calories) than doing them separately. Fitting in around the family Perfecting the art of the thirty minute workout allows you to slot it into the family routine more easily than trying to shoehorn an hour’s class into your busy schedule. You could try: • Doing your workout while your child has a swimming lesson - arrive at the leisure centre already changed, as soon as their lesson starts, go straight to the gym. • Going for a thirty minute run while your child does sports training - either run loops around their training ground or do an ‘out and back’ run where you run for sixteen minutes

then return more quickly to arrive back within fourteen minutes. • Finding a leisure centre that runs a crèche while its daytime classes are on. • Asking a friend to take it in turns so they mind the children while you exercise and then you return the favour. Most leisure centres have swimming or soft play sessions available while the gym and studios are free - and you could all meet up for a wellearned cuppa in the café...

find HIIT sessions much more enjoyable and attractive than endurance training. A study at Birmingham University showed interval training had a more positive effect on mood and feelings of well-being than longer, steadier exercise. This could be because the half hour slot is ‘do-able’ or because the pace of the session is exciting and exhilarating.

Or simply because the ‘after glow’ following a high-paced exercise session and the release of endorphins combine to make you feel so much better. Whatever the reason, it’s got to be worth a shot! BAC For advice on HIIT training, information on suitable classes or simply to get started on a thirty minute programme visit www.freedom-leisure.co.uk or pop into your nearest centre.

The feelgood factor You may be surprised to learn that people who were previously sedentary

Keeping sport fun

he traditional winter sports of rugby and football are great at keeping children fit and healthy and both sports are now open to girls. Most football clubs have girls only or mixed teams, and rugby for girls is increasingly popular. More than 13,000 women and girls play rugby regularly in England and we are ranked number two in the world. There are many football and rugby classes for children of all ages, regardless of ability. When children are young the most important thing is that they enjoy what they are doing. Classes should be fun and encourage children to keep fit, whilst learning the basics of the sport. Both sports will increase a child’s motor skills, coordination and of course, their general fitness and strength. They will run, jump, throw and learn how to kick and catch a ball. In addition, to the physical benefits of regularly attending classes, children will also develop discipline and a sense of team spirit. A good coach will encourage good sporting behaviour on the pitch, and children will understand that a team isn’t just made up of one or two stars, but that everyone is important and has their place. All of these skills are

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important in sport, school and beyond. If children are involved in sport it also increases their circle of friends, and they have opportunities to mix with other children, outside of school. There are many sports classes in the area and most will allow you to attend a trial session so you can see if it suits your child. Classes are normally taught according to age, and will generally concentrate on ball skills rather than playing competitive games. As children get older, there are lots of opportunities to play football and rugby competitively, both at school and at clubs. If football and rugby aren’t for your child, there are many other sports to choose from. Today, most sports have clubs and classes for young children. There is

gymnastics, netball, ice skating, horse riding and martial arts, to name just a few. When children are young the focus will be on games that develop the skills of the sport, and keeping fit and healthy. As they progress in age and ability, some children may decide to compete competitively, but if not, most classes have both competitive and not-competitive streams. Some children just do not enjoy organised sport but they can still keep fit in other ways such as going for a family cycle ride or swim, active games in the garden, or even simply walks in the country or visits to the park. It is recommended by the British Heart Foundation that children and young people should 'aim to participate in sixty minutes of physical activity every day such as walking, dancing, swimming,

cycling, active play or other sports.' This doesn’t have to be in one go; it could include walking to school, playing football in the playground, PE at school and gymnastics at an after-school club, for example. The most important thing is to find a sport or activity that your child enjoys because they will then be happy to participate, and it won’t be a struggle to get them to go each week. Talk to your child about what activities they enjoy and let them try a few out first. Very young children tend to do lots of different things to start with, and then gradually narrow it down to one or two sports that they develop further. Keep sport and exercise fun for young children, and it will then develop into a natural habit for them keeping them fit and healthy for years to come.

Social inclusion J

ames Spencer from Worthing Leisure reports on the importance of social inclusion for both adults and children with learning disabilities. In the past people with learning disabilities potentially faced poor life opportunities, largely due to social exclusion. They struggled with acceptance from mainstream society, facing stigmatisation, prejudice and even fear.

So, what are ‘learning disabilities’? A learning disability affects the way a person learns new skills in any area of life, not just at school, and affects the way a person understands information and how they communicate. This means they can have difficulty understanding new or complex information and learning new skills. Around 1.5m people in the UK have a learning disability. A learning disability is not the same as a learning difficulty or mental illness. Consultant paediatrician Dr Martin Ward Platt says: “It can be very confusing, because the term 'learning difficulties' covers a whole range of learning disabilities. It is easily misunderstood.” Prejudice and stigmatism can arise because of a lack in education and facts about mental health and learning disabilities. But there are distinct differences. Some children with learning disabilities grow up to be quite independent, while others need help with everyday tasks; it depends on their varying abilities. Wider society and the media have

distorted most people’s views improve valued support services and interpretations. News and aims to make life easier for stories often portray people people with learning disabilities. with mental health problems They have four core beliefs negatively and link violence and that all people with learning mental illness. This changes disabilities should: people’s views and • have the opportunity reinforces stigma. to lead independent ...showing A large majority lives that people with (69%) of • be able to learning disabilities people with express and or mental health learning achieve their problems are ‘the same disabilities preferences as you’, with the have been put • have equal same fundamental off applying legal and civil needs for for jobs for rights everyday life. fear of unfair • be included in treatment. 50% mainstream society. felt unfairly treated by health care services. Worryingly, The policies have inspired almost half (47%) had been initiatives for social inclusion, abused or harassed in public, such as ‘Just Like You’. Their and some (14%) had been vision is to educate society, physically attacked. Thankfully, showing that people with re-education, new ideas and learning disabilities or mental innovation are changing health problems are ‘the perceptions. same as you’, with the same fundamental needs for everyday The goals of ‘Valuing life. People’ Services currently offered by A true life story - proof it’s community groups, schools and working day care centres offer valuable At Worthing Leisure Centre in support but we have to be Sussex this summer, an eight careful that they do not add to year old called Katie Rathbone the problem of social exclusion attended an inclusive 'Sensory through segregation. ‘Valuing Art' kids activity group, where People’, a policy created by children of all abilities can the UK Government, looks to design, create and play in a

completely safe, free space, with no ‘rules’. Katie suffered learning and social difficulties, and was not used to socialising in ‘mainstream’ society. She seldom spoke or interacted and all she painted was blank sheets of paper, in black. After several sessions and careful engagement, her confidence slowly grew. Instead of black images, she painted houses and figures of people. Katie was painting and describing her home, her family, brothers and sisters to the teacher and fellow children in the group. Her progress improved as a result of interacting within an ‘all-inclusive’ environment. She learnt key skills in regards to interaction in everyday life. Jennie Heirock, a Summer Fun Children’s Programme Coordinator pointed out that: “Disability does not mean ‘no ability’, as EVERYONE has a talent and something to offer society, whether creatively, practically, or otherwise. It’s important to create sessions for mixed abilities; essential for children to integrate with others.” Coaching and instructing a mixed sports group can be challenging and instructors/ (continued over the page)

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Meeta-mum website launches

t can be more difficult to make new friends as a mum particularly if you have moved into a new area, or have lost touch with friends during your maternity leave. Mum Amie is a new, free to use, meet-a-mum website that matches users’ profiles for compatibility, enabling mums to make friends. The website has been created by mum Aimee Foster and her friend Gemma Dorsett, as a way of helping mums find other mum friends. The site uses dating site technology to match up mums and help them find friends with similar interests, circumstances and personalities. The website also aims to help single mums, mums in same sex relationships and mums that have children with disabilities find each other for friendship and support.

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teachers have to learn to simplify instructions and on the whole, children are all treated equally. Important lessons are learnt such as the concept of winning and losing. Claire Moyle, an Educational Needs Coordinator from Oakgrove College, Worthing, and an ambassador for social inclusion states: “Possibly the most important message taught is that by taking part, enjoying the sport, doing the best they can, being kind and having fun with others is the best prize anyone can win when competing in sports.” As momentum gathers for social inclusion, equality in education is recognised as the fundamental element to facilitate a more inclusive society. Recent legislation states that a child can attend a mainstream state school, as long as the local authority and

the school evaluate the child’s needs. More and more schools are now offering care to children of mixed ability and already, cultures and attitudes are progressively changing. Local businesses, leisure providers, potential employers and local authorities are realising the benefits of social inclusion. The future of a more integrated, inclusive society is more positive now than ever, thanks to very realistic ambitions that have been pushed forward by dedicated groups of people. To find out more, contact your local schools, leisure facilities, local authorities and care providers, visit www.2gether. nhs.uk and for full details of the ‘Valuing People’ policy visit www.gov.uk BAC For further details in regards to all Worthing Leisure activities please visit www.worthingleisure.co.uk

Take a look at www.mumamie.com

Grandparents

are cool

is FREE

he coolest grandparents let you stay up late, laugh at rude rhymes, tell you secrets, and are on social media according to a new study. Researchers polled children aged five to fifteen years to establish the traits and attributes that grandparents possess to be deemed ‘cool’. On-trend grannies and grandads also own a tablet, always have homemade cakes available and push money in to your hands whilst saying “shhhh.” Letting you choose what you want for dinner, having picnics indoors and playing on games consoles were also on the cool list. As was knowing lots of card games, listening to your music, 122

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letting you bake without moaning about the mess, and taking you on days out. The poll by McCarthy & Stone, the UK’s retirement developer, also revealed the coolest grandparents are most likely to be called Ted and Maggie. They let their grandchildren play in rain, always have sweets on hand

and have an array of rude jokes up their sleeves. It’s also lovely to know that 65% of children described their grandparents as cool, 75% said they hoped to be like their grandparents when they grow old and 70% also said they thought their grandparents were much younger than their years.

and will remain so as long as the advertisers are aware of THE magazine that Sussex parents read! Please mention ABC when replying to adverts, give copies to your friends, and help spread the word!

Get fitter without needing a sitter!

by Lisa Kennedy www.newmums6weekshapeup.co.uk

aving a baby is a wonderful time, but, let’s be honest, it’s hard work too. It can seem impossible to get back to the shape and fitness you had before your baby arrived, let alone think where you will get the time and energy from. The good news is there are simple steps to follow that will get you there. They don't involve a gym, fancy exercise equipment or a starvation diet and they will also improve your energy levels. Seven simple steps to losing the baby weight and feeling great...

Dress in layers, wrap up your baby, get your trainers on and get outside. Perform walking intervals with the pram. One minute brisk walking, one minute moderate walking for twenty minutes. The fresh air and motion will help your baby sleep longer and the walk will energise you and make you feel good.

Perform bodyweight exercises in the house with your baby there. This is a great way to workout without even leaving the house. It is also a great source of amusement for your baby! Perform exercises below for 30 seconds with 15 seconds rest in between, repeat 4 times. Supermums (great for core/lower back) Perform on all fours, hips directly over the knees,

shoulders directly over hands, Tighten tummy muscles then stretch out an arm in front and alternating leg straight behind. Hold this for a split second then repeat with alternate side. Walking lunges (great for legs) Stand tall, tighten tummy, take a big step forward with your right leg bending at the knee, whilst lowering your left knee towards the floor. Keep all the weight in the front heel, stand back up and alternate legs (walk) until the time is up. Half curl (great for tummy) Lie on your back, both hands on top of thighs, knees bent, tighten your tummy muscles by drawing your belly button in towards the small of your back, lift shoulders off floor, reaching hands towards knees, lower slowly and repeat.

Download a great playlist for your iPod or MP3. Music can be a great motivator and will get your baby dancing too.

Cut down on processed foods, especially sugar, eat wholesome nutritious foods regularly instead. This will give you more energy over the course of the day.

Don’t beat yourself up if you have a bad day, having a baby changes your life and sometimes your day will not go to plan.

Batch cook healthy meals and freeze. Soups, stews, and bolognese are all healthy, easy-to-make dinners. They freeze well, are suitable for the whole family and batch cooking will save you time during the week.

EBook New Mums 6 Week Shape Up is an affordable, easy to follow nutrition and home workout plan especially for new mums.The eBook was trialled with agroup of mums, they lost seven stoneand 147 inches between them. More importantly they all felt more confident, fitter and fabulous after the 6 weeks. New Mums 6 Week Shape Up is available on Amazon and iTunes priced at £6.99 www newmums6weekshapeup.co.uk www.facebook.com/ newmums6weekshapeup

Invest in a slow cooker. Slow cookers are cheap to buy and are a must have for any busy mum. Prepare your dinner in the morning, put in the slow cooker and leave it to cook while you spend the day with your little one.

New Mums 6 Week Shape Up The weight loss eBook for busy new mums!

5 star Amazon reviews: Fantastic, achievable, realistic

Simple, easy to follow, great results

Check out the success stories on www.newmums6weekshapeup.co.uk Available as an eBook on Amazon and iTunes £6.99

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Too much, too soon?

by Christine Chessman www.pureaerobicsbrighton.com

The impact of social media pressure on women’s postnatal exercise choices.

Make it a healthy year

ere are some ideas to help kick start your New Year - but feel free to start before if you wish!

• Eat more fruit and vegetable portions every day This is a simple yet highly effective New Year’s resolution that could really boost your day-to-day health. Try to eat the recommended portions of fruit and vegetables each day to keep your body energised with nutrients, vitamins and minerals. • Join a gym or health club Gyms are now far more ‘female friendly’ and membership normally includes classes as well. Take advantage of the New Year offers that will be around, but make sure you keep going, and don’t just end up paying the monthly fee and not attending! • Walk or cycle on the school run Even if you can’t walk or cycle the whole way, park further away and walk the rest of the way. When you don’t have your child with you on the way back, you could power walk or jog. If you are doing this twice a day, there and back, it should make a difference. • Cut down on your daily salt intake High salt consumption can lead to a variety of health problems, including raised blood pressure and heart disease. Salt is added to nearly all processed foods so try to cut it out of everything else. • Try a new sports activity If you want to boost your fitness levels but feel the gym isn’t right for you, a new sports could provide a fun, yet fit alternative. There is plenty on offer from dancing to karate to netball! • Curb your drinking habits As all those festive hangovers may have hinted, heavy alcohol consumption can entail serious health consequences, with long-term health implications. Try to keep alcohol for the weekend or special occasions. • Spend more time with your family Whether playing a board game, joining in the fun at the park or cooking with the children, being with your family will make you appreciate the simple pleasures in life.

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o you’ve just had a baby and are flicking through a celebrity magazine as your little bundle snoozes away on your shoulder. You are four weeks in and are suddenly presented with an image of Heidi Klum walking the runway a mere five weeks after giving birth to her fourth child. No sign of a jelly belly, breast pads, stretch marks or varicose veins - just pure lithe perfection. Suddenly the ridiculous pressure to meet these unrealistic untenable ideals hits home! subjected to enormous social pressure through the media and social media when celebrities are pictured back to their pre-pregnancy weight after an unrealistically short period of time. New mums need to maintain a healthy diet and gentle exercise Should at the most when I be out power looking after walking with the their baby buggy rather than which can catching a quick be a stressful and tiring forty winks experience in in-between the early days." feeds?

You question yourself. Should I stop the extra calories even though they’re recommended for breastfeeding? Should I be out power walking with the buggy rather than catching a quick forty winks in-between feeds? Read on.... A few years ago I worked as a volunteer for Beat - the UK charity for beating eating disorders. I asked them to comment on the pressures on women to lose weight after giving birth and their Senior Media Officer, Mary George, said"Nowadays women who have recently given birth are

The following quote from Jeni further highlights the issue: "I had anorexia, recovered, had a baby, and then very quickly began training for a half marathon and to get back

in shape. I lost too much body fat (but wasn’t underweight, just too slim and muscular) and suffered from Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (loss of periods) but the treatment for the HA included having to put on body fat (not easy for me)." I also asked a few friends if they felt they were under increased pressure due to social media images and unrealistic celebrity imagery. Ibs from Brighton said "No one tells you before having a baby how unfit you become. I felt like a slug after both my pregnancies and I am only now starting to feel normal.... Media and celebs are why. They all post pics and articles about how they lost their baby weight in four, six or eight weeks." So how are women supposed to get their pre-pregnancy fitness levels back whilst attempting to juggle all the added stresses that go hand in hand with caring for a small baby? Before doing a postnatal course with Jenny Burrell from Burrell Education, I too thought tough ab workouts and rigorous cardio were the only way to get rid of my mummy tummy.

Think again. The course changed my world. Eat and breathe - this is the message Jenny wanted to give new mums. Reconnecting with yourself and your pelvic floor and incorporating correct breathing, whilst fuelling the body in a healthy and nutritious way. So much more important and effective in helping your body repair itself and indeed recover from the huge stresses that even a problem free pregnancy and birth put on the body.

my diastasis - a separation of the tummy muscles - a condition very common post pregnancy - was never given the chance to heal and I now still have a sizeable separation five years after my youngest was born.

Don’t panic! Most of the damage we tend to inflict upon ourselves after childbirth can be undone with cautious and strategic exercise. The good news today is that women are now being positively educated and holistic postnatal classes are I pushed now more readily myself to run available across several miles every the UK.

I succumbed to social and media day, do sit-ups by pressure after the hundred and I had my first So how dangerously limited baby. I was so should we my calorie desperate to exercise and get into my prewhat should intake. pregnancy jeans in we avoid? the shortest possible Traditional boot time that I pushed myself camps which offer burpees, to run several miles every day, jacks, sit-ups, tuck jumps, tyre do sit-ups by the hundred and rolling, for example, are to be dangerously limited my calorie avoided, especially in the early intake. days. Do your research. At any class you attend after childbirth The result? Emotionally, I was utterly exhausted and struggled to cope with the demands of new motherhood. Physically,

you should be asked complete a PAR-Q (Health Questionnaire) specific to the postnatal client. The instructor should know if you have had a C-section, an assisted birth or a problem free delivery. They should then be able to check for diastasis to ensure that it is safe for you to perform certain moves and if this is not the case, alternatives should be offered! Ensure any instructor leading a class for mums has the correct postnatal certification and training and that they incorporate an empathy driven education, re-connection and movement based programme. So what is my parting word to new mums? Be kind to yourself and enjoy your babies... Christine is an Aerobics and Street-Fit Instructor trained in Pre and Post Natal Assessment and Exercise Prescription. She is the founder of Pure Aerobics Brighton which offers fun, effective and child-friendly classes for mums throughout Brighton and Hove. www.pureaerobicsbrighton.com

pure aerobics brighton Christine’s child-friendly classes for mums throughout Brighton and Hove

6 classes for £30 or drop-in £6 Contact Christine on 07786 038973 or christine@pureaerobicsbrighton.co.uk www.pureaerobicsbrighton.com Pure Baby Boot Camp at St. Ann’s Well in Hove. A balanced fitness class focused on the CORE that encourages slow but steady recovery to bring new mums back to fitness in the right way.

Fashion A Baby Necccessory essity!

Celebrity mini-me of the year

Silicone teething jewellery safe for babies to chew

ric Cowell has been named as the celebrity mini-me of the year, according to a new poll.

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ABC Magazine - Sussex 125

Take care of yourself L

ooking after ourselves can be low on the agenda for most of us at this time of year. Choosing presents, buying food, watching school plays, cooking and cleaning for the festive period, means that a few hours of pampering is very low down on the list of priorities. However, it is because of how busy we all are, that we need to make sure we look after ourselves - no one wants an ill mummy or daddy on Christmas Day!

It is also the time of year for socialising! So, even more reason to make sure you look and feel your best. If you are feeling very tense and pressurised with all that there is to do, it is worthwhile blocking some time out for a yoga class or perhaps a body massage. Although, this will take up some time, the benefits will mean that you feel rejuvenated afterwards and ready for anything. However busy you are, try to continue with any exercise that you do, as it will make you feel so much better. Most of us enjoy over-indulging a little over Christmas and New Year and the excess food and drink can mean that your skin doesn’t look as good as it normally does. So, try to book a facial at a beauty salon if you can, or have an evening pampering yourself at home. Drink plenty of water, as this really does improve your skin, particularly if you are drinking more alcohol than normal. If you know you are going out for a special occasion, try to book a hair appointment, get your nails done, or even spend a couple of hours looking for a new outfit. Many mums (and dads) are just as busy and are equally in need of some time for themselves, so arrange

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a babysitting swap so that you both have some time for pampering yourselves. Even if finances mean that you do your hair and nails yourself, it is still lovely to be able to do it without the demands of small children! Most of us manage to treat ourselves to a new outfit for the festive period, but if not, you could update a dress with new accessories or even just buy a new lipstick to make you feel a little brighter. Most of the big stores have beauty counters where you can try out some new make-up - but be careful that you aren’t persuaded to buy something you can’t really afford or won’t use! If you are using a babysitter whilst you are out, book them to come round an hour earlier if you can, so that you can have some child free time to get ready. Make everything as easy as you can for yourself by planning what you are wearing in advance and laying it all out. Finally, before you go out make sure you know how you are getting home and then concentrate on enjoying yourself. You deserve it!

E NG

The child-free mini break M

y children are wonderful and I love them dearly, but I also love some child-free time! I think it’s healthy for me as a parent and for my children too because they realise that mum and dad have a life together too, that doesn’t always have to involve them.

The only problem is that away with close friends. These whenever we do go away, mini breaks are normally full of we spend most of the time good food, alcohol and lots of talking about the children! So, laughter and reminiscing. You sometimes we go away with may come back a little tired but another couple in order to avoid it is certainly worth it. When this. It doesn’t really matter you have children and limited where you go, it’s getting away time and money, it is easy to fall from the daily routine of into a monotonous routine being parents for and a complete break ...the just one or two from the norm can nights that is be rejuvenating, people important. even if it’s only who were kindly Time and an hour away looking after them money had given them a much and for a night probably mean or two. more exciting time you can’t go than we would away for more Whilst you are have done! than a couple of away the children nights so it’s often will probably best to keep within a have a fantastic time couple of hours' drive, so that and be thoroughly spoilt by you don’t spend most of the grandparents, an aunt and uncle time travelling. or friends. Our children have often been quite upset when we If you haven’t spent much time get home because the people away from the children it’s who were kindly looking after natural to feel a little worried them had given them a much about how you are going to more exciting time than we fill the time or what you are would have done! The family going to talk about. It can be a very quickly slip back into the good idea to have a focus to the old routine but we normally get weekend such as golf, a spa treat an extra big hug at bedtime and or two, or even just a long walk my husband and I agree that it in the countryside. has been wonderful to get away, but it is equally wonderful to be Many couples take turns to home again, plus we have lots of have a girls or boys weekend happy, shared memories.

The Brickwall Hotel

overlooking the pretty village green of Sedlescombe, near Battle is a charming 16th century Tudor Mansion in the heart of the Sussex 1066 countryside. Originally built for the local ironmaster in 1599, the hotel offers all the amenities expected by modern standards, yet in a historic and beautiful setting. The Brickwall is known for its excellent standards of service and offers 25 comfortable ensuite rooms, a welcoming oak-panelled FEV PSYRKI [MXL XVEHMXMSREP PSK ½ VIW ERH XLI WTEGMSYW VIWXEYVERX provides a high quality of cuisine incorporating local produce.

We’re not saying advertising in ABC really works - our advertisers are! www.abcmag.co.uk

Brickwall Hotel & restaurant The Brickwall Hotel, The Green, Sedlescombe, Battle, East Sussex, TN33 0QA

WINTER BREAKS 2 nights - £150.00 3 nights - £220.00 4 nights - £285.00 Inclusive of Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and VAT. Prices are per person sharing a double/twin room and are valid until 28th February 2015 (excluding Bank Holidays). OPERA AND JAZZ EVENINGS Enjoy a delicious three course dinner accompanied by fabulous live music. For further details contact jazz@brickwallhotel.com or cameo-opera@brickwallhotel.com CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR 2014 Bookings are now being taken for Christmas and New Year breaks and for pre-Christmas lunch and dinner parties.

For more information call 01424 870253, email info@brickwallhotel.com or visit www.brickwallhotel.com ABC Magazine - Sussex 127

Counselling

by Emily Burns Child Counselling Brighton

for children and teenagers

ometimes life events impact on our children in ways they find difficult to cope with or we may see our child is struggling but not know why or how to help them.

Child counselling can support children and their parents through these difficult times bringing insight and strategies to the parent and a space for the child to express themselves.

Play and Creative Arts Therapy for Schools, Family Centres, Health Organisations and Private Practice One-to-One Sessions, Group Work and Workshops

Phone: 07833 583047 Email: info@darlingbudsofplay.co.uk Web: www.darlingbudsofplay.co.uk

Play therapy is to children what talk therapy is to adults. It is used as a medium for expressing thoughts and feelings, exploring relationships, describing experiences and disclosing hopes and dreams. Play therapy can be used for young children to teenagers on anything that may be causing them upset, distress or difficulty. Play therapy has the potential to increase confidence and self-esteem by enabling the recognition of personal strengths and attributes, to strengthen relationships due to the boundaries, trust and consistency of the therapist and to connect with the joy of playing which increases creativity and fosters imagination. Play therapy facilitates the child's selfhealing, which in turn helps alleviate emotional struggles. ''We can be sure that all happenings, pleasant or unpleasant, in the child's life, will have repercussions on her dolls'' Piaget 128

ABC Magazine - Sussex

are used. The counsellor helps put words to the emotions and scenarios the child is expressing.

For example, a child may show the toy figures getting buried in the sand and needing to Children often struggle be rescued. The counsellor to talk about their deeper may say: "I wonder if they feel feelings and can express their frightened buried deep down in emotions and difficulties in the sand, seems like it will be hard behaviours, actions and play for them to breathe and how can which we may find they ask for help when hard to understand they are buried". and respond The child and The effectively counsellor can counsellor to. The then maybe helps put words to pre-frontal rescue them the emotions and cortex part together and scenarios the child of the brain share the joy gives us our and relief of is expressing. capacity for them getting self reflection, the help they self awareness and need. This scene may language for feelings: This be mirroring something is still growing in children and is happening in the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life undergoing a reorganisation in where they feel anxious, unable adolescence; consequently both to breathe and unable to ask for children and teenagers often help. Children often play out have difficulty talking about these kinds of scenes again and feelings. again until they can find the resolution in their own life. How does child counselling work? Adolescents also benefit from A counsellor who is specifically creative arts in counselling. trained in working with Often they are grappling with children has a range of issues of identity, relationships, techniques available to them academic pressure, societal to help children express their pressure, the conflict of starting emotions. Play, art, story, sand to separate from, yet still being tray, movement, music, role dependent, on parents, changes play, relaxation, meditation in the brain and body, sexuality and other creative approaches and thinking about their future.

normalising their They may start to feel experiences. This overwhelmed, brings about confused and As parents it more capacity different and can feel difficult for change unfortunately to approach a and selfmany counsellor and acceptance. teenagers find it hard to admit that How talk to their your child is can child parents. struggling... counselling help? Difficult issues they Child counselling possibly coped well provides children with a space with in childhood can come to learn, express, develop and to the fore during adolescence explore and can also provide and create difficulties in their support to parents through relationship with themselves parent-child sessions and parent and/or their parents and peers. only sessions. A Child Counsellor will know Children, young people and how to support teenagers often their parents will develop through this period; helping more self-awareness, emotional them express and understand regulation, increased language their feelings and learn about for feelings and improved the neurobiology of thought strategies and resources to cope and emotion therefore with difficulties.

too late. As parents it can feel difficult to approach a counsellor and admit that your child is struggling but you have everything to gain as a parent as well as the support it can offer your child. A child counsellor can not only give parents valuable guidance but can work alongside teachers and other professionals in the best interests of the child. Counselling for children and young people can range from six sessions to up to a year or more depending on the need and how the child responds. Some of the issues child counselling can help with: Bullying, academic difficulties, anxiety, separation anxiety, bereavement, divorce and separation, overwhelming emotions, depression, shyness,

confidence, behavioural difficulties, body image, selfharm, self-esteem, trauma, fostering, sibling difficulties, difficulties in relationship with parent, impact of medical conditions/disability. Child Counselling Brighton Experienced Child Counsellor Emily Burns runs CCB. She has worked for the well-known charities Sussex Central YMCA, Kids Company, Changing Faces as well as currently working at The Priory Therapy rooms in Brighton and Lewes. Initial telephone and email enquiries welcomed. www.childcounsellingbrighton.co.uk emily@childcounsellingbrighton.co.uk Tel: 07905207476 Yoga therapy: yoga therapy groups offered to girls aged eleven to fourteen who experience low self-esteem, medical conditions, body image issues, stress or anxiety. Yoga techniques have been proved to be effective in working with these issues and Child Counsellor Emily Burns is a trained and practising yoga teacher.

Other benefits include: improved parent-child relationship, better capacity for successful friendships, better ability to focus on learning, more confidence and selfesteem, less overwhelming feelings of emotion and reduced feelings of shame. The earlier a child gets support with difficulties the better but at the same time it is never

Life-changing parents’ programme

comes to Brighton

ver wished your children came with a manual? You’re not alone; two thirds of parents in a recent survey said that life was easier before children and one in four admitted that they don’t cope easily. It’s the only job that is 24/7 and yet comes with no training, so it’s no wonder that parents can find it tough, especially in a world where more of us live away from traditional family support networks.

What’s more, the latest research stresses how vital parenting is to the next generation’s futures, with a body of evidence pointing to parenting as the biggest factor that shapes children’s achievement. Dufur and Troutman (2012) studied more than 10,000 students in the US and found that parental support makes more difference to children’s academic success than schools do.

to tackling fussy eating and managing sibling rivalries. It’s been running in London for four years and was described by Boris Johnson as “just about the most hopeful thing I’ve seen in the last few months”.

It’s not always easy for parents to know how best to support their children, but help is at hand in the form of an innovative series of workshops called Parent Gym, offered free of charge at some primary schools in Brighton. Delivered by trained volunteer coaches who are parents themselves, each session covers a different aspect of parenting, from building stronger relationships and improving communication,

Parent Gym has been accredited by CANParent as a provider of highquality, evidence-based parenting support. They’re currently recruiting for parent volunteers to roll out the programme in Brighton schools, so if you’d enjoy the opportunity to support local families at the same time as developing your coaching skills, check out www.parentgym.com.

One parent reported; “My husband said to me, ‘You haven’t shouted all week’ and I realised it’s because of what I’ve learnt here”.

ABC Magazine - Sussex 129

by Charlotte Every www.everybodytherapy.co.uk

The benefits of massage

and essential oils in the winter months

id you know massage can help boost immunity? Following scientific trials on the effects of massage on the human body. Research from CedarsSinai’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences has shown that the body’s endocrine and immune system response is significantly improved from the effects of massage. Our immune system helps defend our bodies from disease and infection. Our lymphatic system is one of our main defences and circulates cellular fluid all around our body through vessels similar to our arteries and veins. Travelling through our lymphatic system are germ fighting white blood cells (lymphocytes). In the study at Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre even after just one massage there was a significant increase in the number of these cells! Massage assists with the movement and the spread of our white blood cells throughout our body, helping our systems

to protect and defend itself and boosts our immunity. There are many variations of massage, all with their own benefits but here are a few examples of the benefits: • Relieves muscle tension and strain • Lessens anxiety and depression and promotes relaxation • Helps relieve water retention (oedema) • Improves muscle flexibility and mobility • Stimulates and relieves over worked muscles from exercise • Breaks down scar tissue and adhesions (knots) Essential oils work in perfect harmony with massage and have

Sports & deep tissue massage, pregnancy massage, aromatherapy, reflexology & beauty treatments. Pre-wrapped gift vouchers available. www.everybodytherapy.co.uk 01273 447841 - 07955921823 The Samurai Centre, New England Street, Brighton 130

ABC Magazine - Sussex

many, many other uses as well. These natural remedies have been used in households for hundreds and, in some cases, thousands of years!

• Lavender- Nit and insect repellent, relieves insect bites or stings, aides sleep, antibacterial, antifungal and great for spots. • Mandarin - Safest oil to be used in pregnancy. Helps to prevent stretch marks and is nutritious to the skin.

Here are a just few of my favourites and most used, and their ...even uses: These oils can after just one • Eucalyptus all be used massage there - Relieves a in baths, oil blocked nose, burners and was a significant coughs and in massage. increase in the colds, relieves Oils must number of flu symptoms, be used with these cells! stimulates the correct blood circulation dilutions. and the immune Essential oils must system, plus it is both not be applied directly antibacterial and antiviral. to the skin. They are intended Revives the mind and aids for adult use and if you have concentration. any medical conditions please • Chamomile ‘children’s oil’ contact us or your local Use on children over one year aromatherapist for advice old. Anti-inflammatory, relieves on the use of essential oils. itching from rashes, minimises Alternatively, ask your doctor chicken pox scars and is a skin for advice. www.everybodytherapy.co.uk calming oil. • Benzion -Antibacterial, antifungal, seals wounds from infection, counteracts inflammation, decreases gas, ...what indigestion and lung congestion, promotes circulation and is an Sussex antioxidant and deodorant. parents (You may need to warm the oil really read! first as it is a resin).

by Lisa Henning www.skin-confidence.com

Why do some

stretch creams Y

mark work?

ou researched all the stretch mark prevention creams, read all the reviews, took advice from friends and family, made your choice and stuck to it. So how disappointing that you still ended up getting stretch marks. Why didn’t it work for you?

skin, you need to use a stretch Why do stretch marks mark prevention cream that’s happen? suitable your skin, be it dry, The dermis (living layer of skin) is where our skin produces normal or oily. Also, how old you are needs to be considered as collagen and elastin, when the skin loses elasticity as we age. abundant and undamaged the skin easily stretches and regains The oilier or younger your skin its shape. Stretch marks are is, the more elastic it is, so your fine scars caused by tearing in skin’s response to treatment the dermis when the skin lacks is quicker because it elasticity. Collagen needs less elastin gives skin its proteins to repair. strength and "My mother Conversely, durability, didn't get them, the drier or but elastin less elastic so I'm unlikely to", is more your skin is, stretchable but how would the earlier and helps your father's skin and more maintain react to such long-term the skin's stretching? use of creams resilience. will be needed to prevent stretch How do stretch marks happening. mark creams or oils work? By deeply nourishing Our skin type is inherited from the skin, penetrating through our parents, and one can be to the dermis, helping to heal, forgiven for taking comfort in thicken and re-elasticise. With "My mother didn't get them, so continued use the skin will I'm unlikely to", but how would become stronger and more your father's skin react to such elastic, allowing it to stretch stretching? even more without damage. Stretch mark prevention creams Are expensive products should not be thought of as a worth it? moisturiser. Elastin can be found in lots of So why do some products shampoos and conditioners, and collagen in many face work better than others? It’s not always the product that’s and body creams, but the size of the molecule needs to be not working, it’s probably more refined and small enough to likely you’ve chosen a product penetrate to the deeper layers that’s not suitable for your skin of the dermis. Many stretch type. Just like choosing the correct face moisturiser for your mark prevention creams and

oils make the surface of the skin smooth and moisturised, but little, if any, collagen or elastin reaches the dermis. Try using a sample of cream and a few minutes later feeling how much remains on the surface, and how much sinks in. Micro molecules that penetrate to the dermis aren’t found in cheaper products.

How do I use stretch mark prevention products? They should be applied morning and evening to areas prone to stretching: breasts, tummy, buttocks and thighs. For those with dry and less elastic skin, starting to use products early in the pregnancy is recommended, to (continued over the page)

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(continued from previous page)

prepare the skin for stretching. Continue using the products while breastfeeding, washing nipples prior to each feed. For dry skins, products need to be layered, with the stretch mark prevention cream used first, then a suitable skin moisturiser on top.

The benefits of being an

older

mother

study by scientists at Birkbeck, University of London and University College London, has shown that the children of older mothers have better physical and emotional health than those of younger mothers. Statistics released by the Office for National Statistics in July 2014 showed that the average age of mothers was the highest ever in 2013, at thirty years. The study found: • The risk of children having unintentional injuries requiring medical attention or being admitted to hospital both declined with increasing maternal age. • The number of infants who had received all the standard immunisations by three years of age increased with maternal age up to twenty-seven years. • Language development at ages three and four years was better for children with older mothers. • Increasing maternal age was associated with fewer socioemotional problems. Children of teenage mothers had more difficulties than children of mothers aged forty. • Parent/child conflict decreased as maternal age increased. • Positive and responsive parenting generally increased with maternal age up to about age forty after which it plateaued. • The least home chaos and the most stimulating home environments were identified for mothers in their early thirties. 132

ABC Magazine - Sussex

Topical Vitamin A (applied to the skin) There’s much controversy and misinformation about what products can and cannot be used during pregnancy. Many doctors tell their pregnant patients that during the first trimester (three months) they are not allowed to take Vitamin A supplements. Supplements are taken by mouth and work systemically (get into the blood). Topically applied Vitamin A is applied externally, to work within the skin, not the blood. Vitamin A in the forms of Retinol, Retinyl, Palmitate or beta carotene are perfectly safe to be applied to the skin during pregnancy. These have great benefits for the skin, aiding condition and helping, in combination with other natural ingredients, to prevent stretch marks. Always check product

labelling for product safety to use during pregnancy. RégimA Scar Repair & AntiStretch Complex is safe and highly recommended to use during pregnancy. It contains high potency pure Retinol (Vitamin A). This is a safe and extremely effective antioxidant or anti-free radical scavenger, helping to rebuild damaged collagen and elastin, improving the condition of the skin support structure. Scar Repair also contains a unique form of micro molecular synthesised elastin, this is not of animal origin, nor has it been tested on animals. Scar Repair can also be used during dieting and to heal fresh and pink stretch marks and scars. BAC

If you’d like further information Lisa can be contacted on: 01273 775188 or 07530 978856. Skin Confidence offers Scar and Stretch Mark Reduction treatments, Dry Tattooing and RégimA Peel & Heal. Also Cosmetic and Medical Tattooing (eyebrows, eyeliner, lips, nipples) and Saline Tattoo Removal as Beautiful Ink Ltd www.skin-confidence.com

is FREE and will remain so as long as the advertisers are aware of THE magazine that Sussex parents read! Please mention ABC when replying to adverts, give copies to your friends, and help spread the word!

Stress

by purepotions www.purepotions.co.uk

and its effect on skin

he pace of life compared to that of our parents has accelerated so much that it is common practice to compare notes light-heartedly about our everyday stresses and strains of life in conversation with friends. One area that can cause us stress is when we become a new parent. Initially we experience feelings of excitement in anticipation of what is to come, accompanied by fear as we worry about how we will cope with this newfound responsibility. The stress of working, commuting and juggling our responsibilities pre-family now seem a distant reminder as a new life takes precedence, along with the accompanying tiredness, hormone levels and lack of time we used to find for ourselves. The beautiful new baby you anxiously waited nine months for is now screaming for a feed; you feel exhausted

and friends and family impact on those closest are only interested to you, as well as in cooing at the manifesting itself The skin new addition physically. can be one of to the family. the first visual As these little Stress can things build present itself signs of stress, up, the feeling in many ways acting like a of stress can and can be barometer... become so the trigger to overwhelming both physical that it starts to and mental health

conditions. The skin can be one of the first visual signs of stress, acting like a barometer for when the body’s equilibrium has been interrupted; showing outwardly when we need to react both mentally and topically to redress that balance. An important response from the body under stress is to produce the hormone Cortisol which can be positive (continued over the page)

purepotions The Nappy Salve and Baby Oil have been developed with Natalie’s own herbal recipe she first began mixing in her kitchen twelve years ago to treat her daughter’s severe skin condition calendula, camomile and vitamin-rich nettle and chickweed in a natural base of hemp oil (rich in the essential fatty acids that dry skin sufferers lack), olive and safflower oils, and beeswax to emulsify. With added lavender oil to cleanse and relax, the salve and oil are safe for use on babies from birth and can also be used by adults for treating dry skin and shaving rash. The original salve Skin Salvation Ointment (£7.99 30ml, £12.99 60ml, £18.99 120ml) is an intensive moisturiser suitable for people with extreme dry skin, psoriasis, dermatitis, skin rash and any other dry, itchy or sore skin. Rich, deeply moisturising and restorative, it forms a semi-occlusive barrier which protects the skin from external irritants and delivers essential fatty acids to dry, irritated areas to nourish and hydrate. Skin Salvation Bath and Body Oil (£12.99 200ml) acts as a replacement for a regular bath emollient. It reduces the drying effects of water, replaces the need for perfumed foaming additives and soap and is specially formulated to give protection and deliver moisture to sore skin during bathing. Suitable for treating extreme dry skin, psoriasis, dermatitis and itchy scalps and can be used by all ages. ABC Magazine - Sussex 133

The very best mobile pampering packages and treatments in Brighton. Choose to indulge yourself or organise a 'pamper day' with friends and family. Perfect pampering ideas: Birthday & maternity gifts, hen parties, baby showers, girls' nights in, office massage, corporate events and much, much more! www.theperfectpamper.com info@theperfectpamper.com 01273 447841

✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷ Win fab prizes with The 100% natural purepotion Skin Salvation range is suitable for people prone to eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and dry skin conditions. Key ingredients in the purepotions Skin Salvation dry skin range are beeswax (which is a natural antibacterial barrier protecting the skin from external irritants and locking moisture in) and hemp (which is extremely rich in essential fatty acids which are often lacking in people who suffer from dry skin). It can help helps break the itch scratch cycle, it is safe for babies and children, it creates a barrier and replenishes skin with natural oils plus there are no parabens, preservatives and perfumes. For further information on purepotions please visit www.purepotions.co.uk

We’ve teamed up with purepotions to offer 5 lucky ABC readers the chance to each win a 60 ml Skin Salvation and a 200 ml Skin Salvation Bath and Body Oil together worth £26. For your chance of winning, simply tell us what are the key ingredients in the purepotions products? Normal ABC competition rules apply and can be found on page 3.

(continued from previous page) particularly stressed as nothing as it provides the required conventional (or prescribed) was components to 'survive'. working to help her daughters However, more negatively the discomfort; in fact they were increased levels of Cortisol in making her condition worse. the body can cause problems such as excess oil production, Natalie researched into which can lead to acne, or developing her own home in regulating inflammation remedy, resulting in a 100% and inhibit the production natural range of skin products of collagen, a key called purepotions. component in the She launched her skin. As a result of ...nothing first range, Skin this the barrier conventional Salvation, function of (or prescribed) with the hero the skin can was working to product 'the be affected help her daughters super salve' resulting discomfort; in fact as it has now in a loss of they were making been nickhydration. her condition named among worse. many eczema and When the body is dry skin sufferers. under repeated stress The range is made with attack during periods such as oils, herbs and essential oils becoming a new parent, the and through initial word of skin is subjected to increased mouth, became an overnight pressure and the continual lack sensation in the UK due to its of collagen and moisture can effectiveness. Through natural cause problems like eczema, demand Natalie then introduced psoriasis, rosacea, or wrinkles, in products especially for babies turn allowing allergens, bacteria and adults. BAC and pollutants to irritate Purepotions is available from the skin and exacerbate any www.purepotions.co.uk selected existing issues. At this point it is Holland & Barratt health stores, important to look into products Day Lewis pharmacies and other that can topically assist the independent pharmacies. GPs can also prescribe Skin Salvation. problem alongside taking steps to target the cause of the stress, and adjust lifestyle accordingly.

Natalie Balmond is a Brighton mum who needed to help her daughter Lula through a difficult time when she was suffering from chronic eczema and irritated skin. The condition hugely affected Lula’s general wellbeing, and Natalie felt

on the WEB @

www.abcmag.co.uk fully interactive digital magazine online...

Top tips for keeping children healthy • Don’t just read the label. Understand the label. Food packaging is also part of the marketing, so the details you need to know may actually be hidden. Make sure you understand everything about the food you are purchasing • A colourful plate is a good start. Bring as many food types as you can to the table, and the more colour you see, the healthier it is likely to be. Variety is king. • Physically engage with your children. Spend your time together being active. Change those days on the sofa for a walk, switch the cinema for a day in a park. • Let your child lead. Be sure to make sure you aren’t just playing a sport you want to. Maybe your child would rather play catch than football, make sure you do that; it will encourage them to maintain an active life, and will keep you involved. Getting outside and active is about your child, not you. • Have a ‘no technology day’. It’s all too easy to be in front of a television or playing on a screen. Remove technology for just one day, and notice the rewards of getting outside and the impact that can have not only on health, but on family relationships. Tips from Greg Small, Head of Membership at the Register of Exercise Professionals

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by Maria Mitchell The Blueberry Clinic

Immune boosting foods

inter is upon us and unfortunately so is the cold and flu season. For many parents the winter months can seem like an endless cycle of coughs, colds, and tummy bugs with nurseries and schools being popular places for children to come into contact with viruses and bacteria. Thankfully, nature possesses a whenever possible. Salmon has treasure chest of nutrients that a mild flavour and can be added can support and strengthen to pasta sauces or risottos or try your child’s immune system. making your own salmon fish Providing your child with an fingers with a polenta coating. immune boosting diet rich in nutrients will help to protect Yogurt: natural yogurt is him from infection and considered a probiotic aid recovery in times food as it contains of illness. To keep ‘friendly’ bacteria, ...regular your children the most consumption healthy this common being of garlic is one winter ensure ‘lactobacillus’ of the best ways to the following and foods are boost your child’s ‘bifidobacteria’. included in These good immune function their diet. bacteria are part this winter. of your child’s Salmon: fresh first line of defence salmon is rich in against harmful bacteria antioxidant vitamins and and viruses as they exert a minerals as well as being one positive influence as they pass of the best sources of Omega-3 along the digestive tract, helping essential fatty acids. These to keep the harmful bacteria at essential fats are vital for good bay. health and required for a strong functioning immune system. Yogurt is also a good source of calcium which is easily Salmon is also rich in Vitamin absorbed. Calcium is important D, another important vitamin for immune function as well as for enhancing immune building strong bones and teeth. function. Vitamin D aids calcium absorption and is also It is important to note that not good for bone health. The all yogurt is good for us, many easiest way to get Vitamin D is commercial varieties aimed at from sunlight but during the children are laden with sugar, winter months it can be difficult some containing as many as to get the amounts required five teaspoons in from sunlight alone. Increasing each small tub. amounts in the diet is therefore Sugar acts as an recommend. immunosuppressant and should be kept to Try to ensure your child eats a minimum. salmon or oily fish two or three times a week. Ensure you When buying yogurt buy salmon that comes from aim to buy organic, a reliable non-farmed source plain, natural or live

brands. Natural yogurt can be sweetened by adding honey or fruit purees, or you can blend with fruit to make smoothies, try freezing these to make healthy ice lollies. Garlic: regular consumption of garlic is one of the best ways to boost your child’s immune function this winter. Garlic is well known for its immune boosting properties. Garlic is rich in sulphur compounds which have potent antioxidant activity helping to keep blood healthy and inhibit the growth of bacteria.

child’s body. Berries are also an excellent source of Vitamin C which helps to bolster the immune system and protect from illness. Berries are extremely versatile and can be added to cereals, porridge or yogurt. Try blending into a smoothie or puree. Keeping a store of frozen berries ensures that whatever the season you can still enjoy the health benefits of these little fruits. (continued over the page)

To get the maximum benefit from garlic the best way is to eat it raw, adding small amounts to stir frys, soups and dips. If you do cook with garlic ensure that you add it towards the end of the cooking process as this will help to preserve the immune enhancing antioxidants. Berries: blackcurrants, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries and raspberries are all excellent sources of antioxidants and phytonutrients which together work to combat free radicals, the disease causing atoms lurking in your

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Regular breakfast

may protect children against diabetes

hildren who eat breakfast regularly, particularly a high fibre cereal, had lower risk markers for type 2 diabetes than those children who ate breakfast infrequently, according to a recent paper. Family GP, Dr Paul Stillman, and advisor to the Breakfast Cereal Information Service (BCIS) notes: “This was a study among 4,116 nine to ten year old children attending 200 schools in London, Birmingham, and Leicester participating in the Child Heart and Health Study in England (CHASE), a study examining risk factors for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes in children of South Asian, black African-Caribbean, and white European origin. “The researchers measured the body composition of the study participants and the levels of insulin, glucose, and other markers of diabetes risk in fasting blood samples. All the participants reported how often they ate breakfast; 2,004 children also completed a twenty-four hour dietary recall questionnaire. 74% of the children reported that they ate breakfast every day, 11% and 9% reported that they ate breakfast most days and some days, respectively, whereas 6% reported that they rarely ate breakfast. “Children who ate breakfast every day had lower risk markers for type 2 diabetes than those children who ate breakfast infrequently. In particular, the children who ate a high fibre, cereal-based breakfast had lower insulin resistance than children who ate other types of breakfast such as low fibre or toast-based breakfasts.

“Studies of this type are often associated with confounding factors that can reduce the strength of the findings. However, in this study the association between eating breakfast and having a favorable type 2 diabetes risk profile remained after allowing for differences in socioeconomic status, physical activity levels, and amount of body fat (adiposity). “These findings are very encouraging and suggest the need to conduct further trials to see whether altering the breakfast habits of children can alter their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. “This study suggests that if all the children in England who do not eat breakfast daily could be encouraged to do so, it might reduce population-wide fasting insulin levels by about 4%. Moreover, encouraging children to eat a high fibre breakfast, instead of a low fibre breakfast might reduce population-wide fasting insulin levels by 11%12%. Persuading children to eat breakfast, particularly a high fibre breakfast cereal regularly, could contribute to reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Breakfast cereals are a nutritious and convenient choice for breakfast as they contain a range of micronutrients. Choosing a high fibre breakfast cereal may offer additional benefit to health with regard to type 2 diabetes risk profile.”

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(continued from previous page)

Broccoli: this little green vegetable is an excellent source of vitamin C which is essential to boosting your child’s immune system to ward off coughs and colds. To ensure the maximum benefit make sure that you serve it raw or lightly steamed. Boiling or overcooking broccoli reduces its vitamin content as well as its vibrant colour. The above foods are excellent for providing a boost to your child’s immune system, but remember that a child’s diet should be a balanced one with lots of fruit, vegetables, whole grains and protein. BAC Maria is a Nutritional Therapist who works in Brighton and the surrounding areas, she has a keen interest in childhood nutrition. As well as seeing clients individually she also runs workshops for schools and groups on a variety of health related topics. For more information visit www.blueberryclinic.co.uk

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by Gaynor Roberts Tree of Life Centre

The unspoken challenges of motherhood...

prah Winfrey says “Being a mother is the hardest job on earth”. If Oprah acknowledges it, maybe we can too? Having a child is undoubtedly one life’s most rewarding, joyful and fulfilling blessings. Motherhood can also, for many women, be surprisingly challenging, demanding and isolating. It changes every part of a woman’s life, challenges her physically and emotionally in ways she never imagined, and pushes her low on the list of daily priorities. Any mother of small children will tell you what an epic achievement simply getting showered and get dressed can be!

Many mothers feel they lack a safe place to talk about their feelings and gain support, without being judged, or mis-labelled as ‘postnatally depressed’. Baby and toddler groups, wonderful as they are, can sometimes foster a competitive atmosphere in which it’s hard to talk about the real challenges of motherhood. Partners and friends can sometimes be the hardest to talk to honestly, for fear of worrying or burdening close ones. Each stage of childhood and teenage years brings new challenges, each with its own response needed from mums.

women feel they are returning to work with diminished professional confidence. If she’s had to leave her job to have a family, a mother may face a more enduring loss of professional identity.

Parenthood also presents new challenges for couples, as there is simply less time and energy available for fun, communication and romance. These challenges are completely normal, and can even be golden opportunities for positive change. Book a really special regular date night with your partner, or a girl’s night with your friends. Taking time for Fortunately, there are many yourself is not selfish; it is ways in which mothers’ essential, and the physical, mental whole family and emotional benefits. Make You’ve well-being time for gestated, can be the things birthed, breastfed, improved and you enjoy. supported: ridden the hormonal Develop a new skill roller coaster and Identity, or hobby. waved goodbye career and Embrace this to sleep. relationship phase of life as A new mum an opportunity can suddenly feel for personal disconnected from many development, exploring new things that once created her professional avenues, deepening sense of identity; work, hobbies, your relationship and creating social life... She adjusts to fullwork/life balance. Find the time motherhood, builds a new books, people, and resources daily schedule and community that support you, and consider of friends, only to face a new set a few sessions of Life Coaching of challenges when she returns to help you discover your to work. Settling little ones into strengths, gain new resources, nursery can be hard, and many and create the life you want.

Birth trauma Childbirth is an incredible physical achievement, which can be a beautiful, empowering experience. However, for women who had birth complications, interventions, or who felt overridden, neglected or out of control during their birth, there can be deep trauma. This can manifest in a wide range of physical and emotional problems, even years after the birth. Talking is powerful medicine, whether with partners, family and friends, peer-groups like Mothers Uncovered or a trained professional. Sussex hospitals run a free ‘Birth Stories’ service, in which a midwife counsellor goes through your birth notes with you. It can be a healing and empowering process, giving answers to lingering questions, and offering a safe space to talk

through unresolved feelings. Finding the right counsellor or therapist to further explore these issues can be profoundly helpful, while gentle hands-on therapies like cranial osteopathy can help release stress and trauma locked in the nervous system, and help physical issues resulting from pelvic trauma during the birth. Vitality, health and wellbeing You’ve gestated, birthed, breastfed, ridden the hormonal roller coaster and waved goodbye to sleep. Your children eat the best fresh organic food, while you get by on ready meals, sugar and caffeine - no wonder you feel exhausted and out of balance! Simple measures like improving your nutrition, drinking (continued over the page)

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by Juliet Wickham The Washable Nappy Company

Why should you use washable nappies?

hen parents think of washable nappies, they think of flat terry squares that need to be folded and fastened with safety pins and covered with plastic pants. They may also think that the clean-up involved will be tedious and messy. Many parents have missed the total revolution in cloth nappies that has occurred over the past decade. New choices in materials and high tech fabrics are causing an increasing number of parents to reconsider whether disposables are the best choice. Modern cloth nappies are simple and convenient to use, and paper liners makes solid disposal quick and easy with minimal mess - just drop them into your toilet and flush! Cloth nappies available today come in a variety of gorgeous colours and prints with luxurious textures in organic and natural fabrics; a big selling point because there is nothing cute about a disposable nappy. Many washable nappies are in one piece so are put on just like a disposable. Below are some of the advantages: • Reliability - a good washable nappy is at least as reliable as a disposable against leaks and, actually, it should be substantially more reliable. • Financial - you save between £400-£800 per child if using washable nappies. • Comfort - soft natural materials next to your baby’s skin. • Environment - cloth nappies have a much smaller impact on our environment. 8 million disposable

nappies are thrown away every day in Britain! • Toilet training - children in cloth nappies generally potty train six months earlier. • No chemicals - reusable nappies do not contain any superabsorbent gels, deodorants or chemicals and are made from the same fabrics as everyday clothes, giving parents control over what they put next to their baby’s sensitive skin. • They look great - cute and colourful designs look fabulous on your baby. Of course there are a few advantages to using disposable nappies too and it would be silly to pretend otherwise. • Ease - they are very easy to use and buy. • Solid disposal - you don’t have to drop the poo and liner into the toilet, you just wrap it up and dispose of it. • Washing - you don’t have to wash and dry them. Washing cloth

Free Washable Nappy Demo’s Find out all there is to know about using, choosing and washing cloth nappies. Dates booked for Lewes, Brighton and Hastings.

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01424 434580 or 07833 927 210 138

ABC Magazine - Sussex

nappies is not actually that time consuming: there is no soaking and you just pop them into the washing machine and hang them out to dry. You might think that the only disadvantage to disposables is the cost of buying them and the landfill issue, but there are other things to consider. The total environmental cost is much more once you factor in hidden impacts of the production line. By using disposable nappies parents are effectively swaddling their children in a chemical product, whilst at the same time often trying to avoid chemicals elsewhere in their lives. Disposable nappy manufacturers are obviously out to make a profit and have created a product which increases your child’s time in nappies and has to be bought over and over again. However, what they are not going to do is leave themselves open to litigation by not testing, to the best of their ability, the chemicals in their products. There are still many unknowns regarding the chemical impacts of using disposable nappies, to both landfill and your child's skin, but you should at least be aware that there is an impact. Using disposable nappies is not a crime and you should not be made to feel guilty about this parenting decision - but using cloth nappies has many more benefits and requires so very little extra work. The real question in my mind is - why would you use disposable nappies? www.thewashablenappy.co.uk

(continued from previous page)

more water, taking the right supplements and reclaiming twenty minutes a day for a brisk walk or some stretching can make a huge difference to how you feel, mentally and physically. Prioritise yourself! Join a weekly class in something you really enjoy to boost your body and mind - yoga, mindfulness, or dancing - or see a good nutritionist or naturopath for a health and wellbeing MOT. To help restore hormonal balance - the keystone of physical and emotional health - safe natural therapies like herbal medicine and homeopathy can be wonderfully effective. They say “it takes a village to raise a child”. Often living away from the wider family, most modern mums wear multiple hats in raising their children, and deserve to be celebrated as the superwomen that they are! The happier, healthier and better supported mums are, the deeper their enjoyment of their children, and the richer family life is for everybody. BAC Gaynor Roberts it an Osteopath, Natural Health Consultant and mum of one. She is the Clinical Director at the Tree of Life Centre at 143 Portland Road, Hove, where she runs a Women’s Health Clinic and a New Mum Support service with a team of caring and highly experienced practitioners. Full details at www.tolcentre.com, enquiries and bookings info@tolcentre. com or (01273) 220159.

Your health questions answered... H

ere Venetia Powell from Hove Osteopathic Clinic answers some commonly asked questions about back and pelvis pain in pregnancy. Over the next year Hove Osteopathic Clinic will be running a series of Q&A articles so please contact us with any health questions on 01273 208410 - some may even be used in future issues. The next issue will be focused on cranial osteopathy for babies in time for Monique’s birth. Monique first came to see us when she was five months pregnant and suffering with neck and pelvic pain. She had a number of questions needing answers - below is what Venetia from the practice had to say...

in a variety of degrees of severity and generally be completely resolved, or at leased greatly eased, by helping the body to adjust to these changes and helping your posture adapt.

My bump isn’t massive One of my friends had but I have been getting very bad pain in the heartburn. Is this related? front of her pelvis during Heartburn is often a pregnancy, she could combination of hormonal and hardly move. I have started postural changes. The raised getting pelvic pain. Could levels of oestrogen in the early I end up like her? stages of pregnancy targets Well Monique, the first thing the smooth muscle of the gut to do is not to worry. During and can affect your digestion pregnancy a majority of women and causes nausea or 'morning will develop some pain. It sickness'. In later stages of sounds like your friend pregnancy 'morning suffered from sickness' usually Symphisis Pubis settles but the In between Dysfunction, raised oestrogen the routine scans (a problem levels can cause and checks, the with the small heartburn and observant osteopath joint in the acid reflux. can soon spot irregular front of the As the baby signs or symptoms pelvis causing bump (foetus) needing medical acute pain gradually grows, attention... around the pubic it will push against region). This joint, the diaphragm and which is normally fixed, esophagus, thus increasing becomes flexible to allow the the symptoms. Although there baby’s head to pass through the is nothing that can be done pelvic outlet in childbirth. This about oestrogen levels, relaxing occurs during the later stages the diaphragm, some postural of pregnancy when increased adjustment and some practical levels of the hormone relaxin advice about posture and eating cause ligaments all over the habits will normally help this body to become more lax. This to resolve. can lead to instability of certain joints, especially those around How would osteopathy the pelvis. This instability can help me and what should I cause these joints to move out expect? of position and become painful, Osteopathy is an ideal treatment especially on walking or weight- as it doesn’t involve drugs for bearing activity. This can come pain relief. Instead, we use

manual therapy to work the underlying muscles and joint restrictions causing the pain. In addition we can advise on some simple exercises that will also help. One of the biggest contributions we, as osteopaths, can make towards antenatal care is simply to oversee the whole process and ensure that mothers-to-be go through pregnancy easily and without discomfort. We can advise on all kinds of issues, including diet, exercise and lifestyle. Apart from those cases where pregnant mums are deemed at risk of serious health issues, most pregnancies and labours are midwife-led. In between the routine scans and checks, the observant osteopath can soon spot irregular signs or symptoms needing medical attention, or deal with physical asymmetries which might cause problems later on. If you require any further information or have any questions please do not hesitate to ring Hove OsteopathicClinic on 01273 208410. www.hoveosteopathicclinic.co.uk

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is free and will remain so as long as the advertisers are aware of THE magazine that Sussex parents read! Please mention ABC when replying to adverts, give copies to your friends, and help spread the word! ABC Magazine - Sussex 139

A baby’s foot

by Kim Jackson M.S.S.F. (Klodhoppers Ltd Hove and Haywards Heath)

and when to fit the correct footwear

t birth almost every foot is perfect (those that are not will be due to a medical condition, and dealt with through specialist orthopaedic clinics and not through the usual footwear retail route).

When a baby is born there are no true bones in the feet as we understand them. Instead the newborn’s foot is made up of cartilage which is a gristle-like substance that gradually changes into bone and continues changing into the late teens. The process of cartilage turning into bone is called ossification. Different bones ossify at different times and over varying time spans, with some taking years to completely ossify. It is important to remember that all the bones in the body are

normally fully ossified by the age of twenty five, but the bones in the foot are nearly fully ossified at around the age of eighteen (girls tend to complete this process about a year ahead of boys). Throughout this long growing period care must be taken to avoid persistent pressure on the foot. Before the bones are fully formed there is a danger of the bones and joints becoming distorted by pressure from the wrong shoe. The feet of many children are deformed by the

wearing of ill-fitting footwear, ‘hand me downs’ and hosiery that is too small or too big for them.

It’s not just about the length and width of the baby’s foot, it’s about the depth too.

In a baby’s first few months, the foot is almost triangular in shape, straight across the toes and straight at each side. It can look ‘chubby’ or flat, due to varying degrees of ‘puppy fat’, which will slim down once the child becomes more active and grows taller. The toes are extremely mobile and should never be restricted as this can inhibit the development of the foot.

Whether a small child has a lot of puppy fat on the top of their foot or around the ankles, or whether he/she has a slim, shallow foot, it is very important that the correct style of shoe is selected for that particular shape of foot.

A baby has no visible arch as it is hidden by the thick layer of fat, which acts as protection for the developing foot. As the fat disappears, the arch is revealed. At approximately twelve months of age (although in reality it could be anything from nine months to twenty four months), walking will begin. This is usually when the child chooses to and feels that they are ready to walk.

A qualified fitter will take all of these factors into account before selecting the sizes, styles and even brands of shoe they think are appropriate for your child’s feet.

At no time should pressure be put on an infant to get up and walk - the whole process is complex and the child needs to feel happy, confident and safe.

When a ‘first time’ parent comes into the shop asking about the right time to buy their child’s first pair of shoes, there are certain facts a trained fitter will need to ascertain before any appropriate answer can be given.

To protect the baby’s foot from cold or injury, some form of footwear is needed at this stage. Because the baby’s bones are not fully formed and the joints are cartilage and not bone, the child cannot feel pain if the shoes are incorrectly fitted. This is the stage of development when it is vital to get the measuring and fitting correct!

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For example, a ‘deep’ shoe with perhaps a t-bar or a closed-in Velcro style tends to suit a wide, chubby foot, whereas a narrower, shallow foot works well in a ‘Mary-Jane’ style. A child with ‘podgy’ ankles will need a style with a generous amount of room around the heel collar, preferably with padding. So it’s not just onestyle fits all!

First of all the fitter will need to ask the following questions: “Is your child walking already? If so, how long has your child been walking?” “Is that unaided, or simply holding onto the furniture or someone’s hand?” “Does he/she still ‘drop to the floor’ and crawl regularly?” “Are there any health-related or other issues that would have a

Do fathers get postnatal depression?

bearing on the type of shoe chosen for this child?” A large number of parents are very excited and keen to get their child fitted with a pair of first walkers as soon as he/she has taken their first steps. Or they may be pressurised by Grandma who says, “It’s time for them to be wearing shoes as it will help them walk better” (not true). In some instances we have had parents come into the shop saying that they have been told by the staff at their child’s nursery/pre-school that the child needs to have shoes, when it is clear to us that this is not the case. My advice to any first-time parent is to stress that ‘barefoot is best’ for as long as possible, for their child’s foot health. It is generally advisable that a first walker shoe is fitted when the child has been walking confidently and unaided for approximately six to eight weeks. Of course, it is possible to fit a pre-walker or ‘cruiser’ shoe earlier, although this is more for warmth and/or protection, but is not essential. The most important thing to remember when selecting a first walker or pre-walker is that the shoe is very soft and flexible. A shoe that is fitted too soon, or that is too rigid or too tight can do a lot of damage to the child’s foot at this early stage. It is always better to allow a child to work the muscles in their feet properly with a soft, flexible shoe. This will promote healthy feet from the start. Besides, a child can remain barefoot around the house, or wear soft-soled ‘pram shoes’ or moccasins (if it is colder weather), and will only need to wear shoes for going outdoors. If you are in doubt at any time about what is appropriate for your baby’s foot, you can always ask for expert advice. Speak to your local podiatrist or qualified shoe fitter and they will be able to give you the correct information. If you are a parent with a child at a local nursery, or you work at a nursery local to our Hove or Haywards Heath shops, then you can always contact us to find out more about our free outreach service - the ‘Klodhoppers’ Footsteps Initiative - with you every step of the way’. For more details of the Klodhoppers Footsteps Initiative, please contact Kim on 01273 711132

by Dr Rachel O’Brien BSc(Hons), PsychD, CPsychol. Registered Clinical Psychologist, Southwick Psychology

s a psychologist, many of the people I see are struggling with challenges associated with big changes in their lives. Becoming a new parent often involves changing or adapting our sense of who we are and what is important to us in life. Difficulties in making these changes can be experienced by both men and women, sometimes leading to feelings of depression and anxiety. depression in the general male Postnatal depression population (3-5%). Postnatal depression (PND) is a marked low mood, poor What are the causes? concentration, changes in Research findings about the appetite and sleep and lots causes of depression in both of worries or feelings of men and women after birth inadequacy. Depression in men is more likely to be characterised are not rocket science; lack of sleep, stress at work and home, by withdrawing from others plus conflict in the new parents’ and irritability than in women. relationship are all issues that Research into postnatal are likely to make anyone feel depression in new mothers over down. Understandably, men recent decades has gradually whose partners have depression led to improved understanding are also more likely to feel of this difficult experience that depressed themselves. affects a significant number of women. This, in turn, has Although some men become led to the development of their child’s primary carer, it effective therapeutic treatments is still more typical for men to and slowly breaking down the return to work. These fathers stigma that so often surrounds can feel excluded from the new experiences of mental intense bond between health problems. But mother and child, what of men’s especially as ...up to experiences their partner following the 10% of new may not be so birth of a fathers experience emotionally child? Far significant depression available less is written and anxiety after to support about the the birth of their them and challenges children. opportunities faced by new for intimacy are fathers as they less. Work demands adapt to parenthood. and limited paternity leave However, recent studies have mean that fathers may feel less identified that up to 10% competent and less confident of new fathers experience in interacting with their baby significant depression and in the first few months and this anxiety after the birth of their can compound the feeling of children. This is reported to be being excluded. almost double the prevalence of

This exclusion is not limited to the family unit. Expert on men’s mental health, Dr Megan Kendall, reports how implicit, inadvertent messages from health professionals during antenatal appointments and from ‘mother and baby’ related (continued over the page)

Feeling confused? Not sure which way to turn?

Therapy can help Dr Rachel O'Brien Clinical Psychologist BSc(Hons), PsychD, CPsychol

07522 379 564 info@southwickpsychology.co.uk

www.southwickpsychology.co.uk

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✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷ Win fab prizes with The New Dad's Survival Guide In this essential guide for new dads, Rob Kemp - the bestselling author of The Expectant Dad’s Survival Guide - reveals what to expect in the first 18 months, arming new dads with the tools they need to be a fantastic dad. Covering everything from how to bond with your baby and support his development to practical issues, such as how to manage working arrangements and finances, this book gives new dads the confidence, skills and knowledge to enjoy fatherhood - and make a brilliant job of it. The book is priced at £10.99, published by Vermilion and is available from good bookshops. We’ve teamed up with Vermilion to offer 10 lucky ABC readers the chance to each win a copy of this great new book. For your chance of winning, simply tell us what the name is of another book by Rob Kemp? Normal ABC competition rules apply and can be found on page 3.

Keep safe this winter W

henever the country is in the grip of freezing temperatures, we sadly hear about people losing their lives after falling through the ice and there are always many more near-misses. Analysis by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) found that the victim had been attempting to rescue another person or a dog in more than half of the incidents in recent years. When a dog was involved, it was common for the pet to scramble out to safety when the owner did not. Other incidents involved children who had been playing on the ice.

We all want to go out with our children and enjoy the wintry weather. Along with wrapping up well to keep warm and dry, it is important to be aware of the hazards of frozen water and the extremes of winter weather conditions. Although frozen water can look tempting, there is simply no way of knowing whether the ice will hold your weight and it is often too late by the time you find out that it won’t. There is some excellent advice on the ROSPA website regarding winter safety including sledging. Take a look at www.rospa.com 142

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literature indicate that the father is not considered important. This can leave fathers feeling sidelined within both the family and also in society.

depression and they are less likely to be included or involved in antenatal and postnatal appointments. Research demonstrates that men are less likely to visit their GP and less likely to report that they have depression than women are. But health professionals recognise PND as a condition which can affect both sexes and effective help is available. If you are experiencing the symptoms described above know that you are not alone!

Identity change Becoming a new parent entails taking on new responsibilities, changes in lifestyle and for some, a sense of loss of freedom. These changes can be hard to get used to, especially if people think that they ‘ought’ to feel only happiness about the arrival of their baby. Experts suggest The first step to feeling more fatherhood is complicated by social expectations that combine able to cope is to acknowledge that you are struggling; talk to modern and traditional father family and friends about you roles. On the one hand, fathers are feeling. Talking to are expected to be other new fathers ‘Modern Dad’ In and sharing your who is far more their new experiences involved with role, fathers can also be childcare tasks are vulnerable therapeutic. than their to experiencing Locally in grandfathers anxiety, stress and Sussex there ever were. But depression... are a growing at the same number of social time they are also groups organised expected to adhere for fathers; for example to more traditional see your local children and father roles of the ‘provider’ family centre or library. Online or breadwinner. Trying to see www.dad.info for more negotiate or integrate these two, sometimes contrasting roles, can information and forums for lead to frustration or confusion. fathers. If you feel unable to cope and need more immediate support, consider talking to Asking for help your GP; they can suggest In their new role, fathers are medication or local therapists vulnerable to experiencing that will be able to help. BAC anxiety, stress and depression during their partner’s pregnancy, Dr Rachel O’Brien is a chartered clinical birth and the first few years of psychologist, working for Southwick their child’s life. Some might Psychology which specialises in supporting men and women in adjusting to difficult life say that in some ways they are transitions. Telephone: 07522 379564 or more vulnerable than women email at info@southwickpsychology.co.uk if you would like to find out more as, unlike new mothers, they or book an assessment. are not routinely screened for

Herbal medicine

by Sherie Gabrielle (BSc Dip Phyt) MNIMH Dolphin House Charity - The Children’s Clinic

and children’s winter woes...

id you know that the average child generally suffers from six to ten colds per year and that most of these are in winter? As parents we are aware that it is all part of healthy development, and we nurture them as best we can through these times. But when your child has yet another sniffle, or if these colds seem too frequent or severe, have you wished for something that is a middle ground between antibiotics and chicken broth? Well, nature has provided a whole range of medicines and your local medical herbalist can help you decide which herbs could be useful to help bring back your child’s good health. As a medical herbalist, I believe that choosing herbs to help nurture your child when they’re not feeling well sits alongside eating well, drinking lots of fluids and rest. To choose herbs for your child, a medical herbalist will discuss the presenting problem with you as well as your child’s health generally and other factors that may be influencing it. A mixture of herbs is then individually created for your child. Any associated problems like not enough sleep, distressed digestions or irritability can often be addressed with the same prescription. In herbal medicine consultations there is enough time to answer any concerns or questions you might have about herbal medicine and you will be involved in agreeing the treatment strategy. And if you have worries between consultations then medical

herbalists will be available by phone or email for any follow up advice so you can remain reassured throughout the process.

infection either directly or by supporting the immune system. Many of these useful herbs are not rare or unusual. Sage, thyme, yarrow and elderflower, calendula and eyebright, cinnamon, liquorice and, of course echinacea are the herbs I use most for these conditions in my practice.

size. Teas and/or liquid herbal extracts make up the main part of the prescription, and there are ways to make these more palatable to children, if necessary. Essential oils can also be important for chest rubs or steam inhalations. Making these teas or these rubs with your children means they have opportunities to learn about looking after their health and the part herbs and nature play in this.

Herbal medicine can help with many different illnesses, but it’s particularly great with the winter woes and it’s not just the frequency of colds but also Dosages of herbal Herbal the antibiotics medicines in medicine can issue which babies and help with many is driving infants are different illnesses, parents So, this winter, when your child small due to but it’s particularly towards the immaturity is distressed with a sore throat or great with using herbal of their systems cough, consider our herbs and the winter medicine and a consultation with a medical and their woes... other forms of sensitivity. Infants herbalist. Herbal medicine complementary has a long and established have an amazing therapies more often. track record and these herbal ability to recuperate so Doctors are being told to not traditions are an important a small dose is usually all that’s treat these respiratory infections needed. Dosages in children resource for our society’s health with antibiotics unless necessary are more or less relative to their (continued over the page) due to antibiotic overuse and resistance. And yet, respiratory infections are still the most common reason for • Acupuncture • Creative Arts Therapy • Herbal Medicine antibiotic usage. Here, • Homeopathy • Hypnotherapy • Massage • Nutrition herbs can be really useful • Osteopathy • Dr Hauschka Facials and more... to prevent an infection • Providing therapies for babies and children on a donation basis from getting to the stage • Support the children's charity by booking an adult treatment where antibiotics might • Visit our shop - all profit goes to the children's charity be necessary. Herbs Pop in and make an appointment today can support the body or telephone 01273 324790 in its healing and help soothe sore throats and 15 New Road, Brighton BN1 3TL calm irritated coughs. Antiviral herbs can www.dolphin-house.org.uk help the body fight the Registered Charity No: 288174

Therapies for all the family

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How are my children affected by my disability?

by Abi Budd freelance writer, trainer and mother of two www.buddingcommunications.com

am a thirty nine year old mum of two and have Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis. I was diagnosed in 2008 when my son was three months old. It affected me invisibly until a year after my daughter was born, then took a nose dive! I have a six year old son and three year old daughter and I now walk with two sticks and need to use a scooter to get around as my balance is poor and I get so tired with the effort of walking. I wrestled with what to tell the children about my disability. As a mum I want to protect my children from bad news but as my disability became more obvious and harder to hide I realised I needed to come clean and explain. I sat my son down with an MS Society leaflet and was amazed at how engaged and interested he was. He took the leaflet into school for show and tell to share with his class and I was so impressed with his attitude. When my husband goes to work my son has to help me out with cooking and cleaning up which I sometimes feel guilty about. I cook sitting down and as my balance is bad it’s impossible for me to carry food to the table so my son does it for me. He helps fetch and carry things when its bath time and can even lift my scooter out of the car when we go out! My daughter also enjoys helping Mummy with little things like finding my shoes or fetching my walking sticks. She loves having a ride on my scooter too! Although I worry about all the things I can no longer do with the children (swimming, running, play fights) I am also proud of all the things they’re learning about people. They are not scared of disability and realise everyone is different. They have compassion and insight into difference and disability and are more tolerant as a result. MS has forced me to reduce the amount of work I do and I’m grateful for how 'time rich' I am as a result. I’m there to help my son with his reading and spelling homework and have time to hear about their day and be interested in their little lives. Children are so resilient and adapt to anything as long as they feel loved and supported, they have grown up with my disability and I hope the experience will help them grow into more rounded adults. 144

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and well-being. Science may rule much of our modern thinking but it is often catching up in the wake of our herbal traditions and proving knowledge that our ancestors had already worked out for us. Combining these historical roots with modern medical knowledge is the basis for modern herbal medicine. A medical herbalist has recognised degree level medical training. You can always check these qualifications by contacting the professional body, NIMH (National Institute of Medical Herbalists), who regulate professional medical herbalists throughout the world.

Next issue: herbal medicine and children’s allergies. Find out how herbs can help in spring and how you can treat many of the “Mummy, it hurts” problems with simple herbal first aid treatments that are safe and effective. BAC Sherie Gabrielle (BSc Dip Phyt) MNIMH is seeing children at The Children’s Clinic at Dolphin House Charity on Wednesday mornings. Please contact Dolphin House on 01273 324790. www.dolphinhouseclinic.com www.lewesmedicalherbalist.co.uk herbs@sherieg.plus.com

Early ‘facts of life’ conversations

ost children today will have already had their first ‘facts of life’ talk with their parents by the age of ten, according to a recent survey by AVG Technologies. This is up to five years earlier than their parents’ generation. The internet was clearly pointed to as a driving force behind the advance in this conversation. Children now have far easier access to all sorts of information, images and videos on the internet, that we may prefer them not to see whilst they are so young. This has meant that many parents are now forced to have conversations about ‘the facts of life’ at an earlier age than they may otherwise wish. Surprisingly, the survey found that whilst many parents keep control over what their child can see on the internet; two-fifths of parents have not set up parental controls on the devices that their children use. Key points • 56% of parents believe that by the age of twelve their child knows more about the internet than they do. • 62% are broaching conversations regarding sex and pornography before their child’s 10th birthday. • 41% of parents admitted to allowing their child to use the internet unsupervised and not setting up parental controls on their child’s connected device. • 61% said they do not regularly track the online activities of their child.

by Lisa Cory Dip.I.Hyp.NLP.Dip.Hb.IEMT. West Hove Hypnotherapy

What is hypnotherapy? Hypnotherapy is about feeling empowered and taking control. It’s not about being made to do things subconsciously. Hypnosis has been around for thousands of years and is just the simple process of putting someone into a trance. Hypnotherapy is therapy, which uses the state of hypnosis as a powerful tool to facilitate change. This is a state of intense concentration similar to daydreaming, where you remain alert and aware of your surroundings but your focus of attention is elsewhere. Hypnotherapy uses the natural power of your own mind to relieve symptoms and alter unwanted behaviour patterns. Hypnotherapists use words in a more positive and focused way to help people let go of some of the negative ideas they have acquired in life. Solution Focused Hypnotherapy Solution Focused Hypnotherapy looks at what you want to achieve. Solution focused therapy is an active collaboration between the client and the therapist that brings about change. The focus is on a client’s strengths, their competencies and abilities and looking for possibilities rather than limitations. At West Hove Hypnotherapy, rather than seeing clients coming in with problems seeking help, the hypnotherapist acknowledges a client’s difficulties and recognizes the challenges to overcome, respecting the strengths that sustained this person up to this time and finding out what the future has in store. What can hypnotherapy be used for? Hypnotherapy is probably most commonly thought of for

smoking cessation or weight loss. Clients seek help through hypnotherapy for these issues as well as for many other issues such as phobias, anxiety (which takes many forms), work stress, insomnia, driving tests, interviews, confidence and selfesteem issues, amongst many others.

you here and to find out how you want to feel, think and act instead, concentrating on the solution, rather than the problem.

when travelling by car. In this state our inner mind is receptive and open to positive suggestions and coming up with creative solutions to the problem.

During the second half of the session the hypnotherapist will use light hypnotic relaxation techniques with gentle, yet powerful positive suggestions in some ...use words form and some confidence in a more positive boosting, as and focused way to well as enabling help people let go of you to visualise some of the negative yourself ideas they have overcoming acquired your problem.

When you go into trance, you will experience a change in awareness, an alternative state of consciousness. Each person has a different way of experiencing trance. You can hear everything that is said, although you won’t remember all of it, and nothing happens without your consent. You have total control. You will, however, be extremely relaxed and actually have heightened awareness during a hypnotherapeutic trance.

Working with people in this way is a very positive, rewarding experience, helping people to reach their goals, and seeing the positive changes that they can make in a relatively short space of time is incredible.

What do hypnotherapy clients say? Anxiety with regards to presentations and public speaking “I visited a hypnotherapist to overcome my fear of public speaking and presenting in front of large groups. I had hoped for some improvement in my confidence and anxiety levels, but was unprepared for how quickly this happened, and how relaxed and energised I felt in general. The simple techniques used

A big misconception about hypnotherapy is that you will be made to do something that you don’t want to do whilst you are in trance, or ‘under’; that you might make a fool of yourself.

in life.

While in hypnotherapeutic trance you are always in control and actually have more awareness. You do not go ‘under’ or ‘to sleep’. You are not unconscious. It’s a very common misconception, hypnotherapists are not hypnotists, they don’t make people cluck like a chicken, or bark like a dog! You will not do or say anything that you do not think is acceptable. You cannot be made to violate your own values of accepted patterns of behaviour. You would either reject the suggestion or come out of the hypnotic trance. People can only be hypnotised if they want to.

How do different people respond? We all experience trance like states many times during the day; when falling asleep or waking up, daydreaming, being engrossed in a good book or

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What happens during the session? During the first half of a session the hypnotherapist asks you several questions, asking you what you don’t like about the situation which has brought ABC Magazine - Sussex 145

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enabled me to generate a feeling of calm and confidence which can not only be applied to presenting, but also to many aspects of everyday life. After struggling for a long time with the worry caused by this part of my work, I now actually look forward to it. I would recommend the treatment to anyone who feels nervous at the prospect of talking to an audience of any size. Not only will your presentations be better, but you will personally get a lot more out of it than you might expect.” Weight loss “Hypnotherapy has helped me to achieve a sustainable weight. I now look at food differently and consider hunger levels and my reason for eating. I am now able to maintain my goal weight without dieting. I understand better my original reasons for overeating." Driving test “It was a really positive experience having hypnotherapy to support my anxieties when I was learning to drive. My hypnotherapist, was extremely reassuring, supportive and positive. I found it really helpful that the sessions were tailored towards me. I would highly recommend attending some hypnotherapy sessions for driving lessons and driving tests, as I found my confidence grew and I passed my test first time”. Work stress “I visited a hypnotherapist when I was having a particularly stressful period at work... our organisation was going through a major re-structure, with many people at risk of redundancy. Through hypnotherapy, I learnt some relaxation and stress management techniques that I could draw on during the day so that I regained a sense of control of the situation; it helped enormously.” A BC

Lisa runs West Hove Hypnotherapy and also works from the Tree of Life Centre, in Hove. For more details visit www.westhovehypnotherapy.co.uk

Find all this info at

igital www.abcmag.co.uk

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All the time in the world...

by Isobel Smith The Flying Club

How to fit everything in AND still have time for the things that matter

here are only so many hours in the day - and so much to do.

So put the kettle on and let's examine what you get up to in an average week. 1. Make a list of the many roles you play in your life. Some examples: partner, daughter, son, parent, sibling, friend, cleaner, taxi driver, childcare provider, educator, motivator of others, breadwinner, cook, host, artist, writer, lover, nurturer, pet carer, rubbish clearer, washer upper,

✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷ Win fab prizes with Creative cooking for kids Everyday Kitchen for Kids, by Jennifer Low, is the follow up to the awardwinning bestselling Kids Kitchen with 100 new recipes specially developed and written for children. All the unique elements that made Kids Kitchen such a hit are here in this new collection of recipes - no sharp knives, no hob-top cooking, recipes that have been tested by children themselves and a photograph of every recipe. Most recipes use measuring jugs and spoons for ingredients and where cooking is involved, they use ovens and microwaves so there are no naked flames to cook over. Nor does the book ignore the growing number of children with gluten intolerances and coeliac disease - many of the recipes are completely gluten-free. Everyday Kitchen for Kids (£14.99) is published by Grub Street Publishing and is available from all good bookshops. We’ve teamed up with Grub Street Press to offer 6 lucky ABC readers the chance to each win a copy of Everyday Kitchen for Kids. For your chance of winning, simply tell us how many new recipes the book features? Normal ABC competition rules apply and can be found on page 3.

shopper, accountant, promoter, events manager, receptionist, interior designer, DIY person, laundry manager... Break your list down into headings: parenting, partner, carer of others, earning money, house keeping, social life, fun... Add to the list: dreamer and imaginer, and nurturer of self. Put them at the top! Look at the list you have made and mark each role 1 - 10 for how much time you spend a week doing it (1 = not much time. 10 = lots). Next score each role according to the pleasure or satisfaction it gives you, (1 = not much. 10 = lots). Hand luggage only As a busy parent its easy to get so bogged down with day-today tasks that you forget to be nice to yourself, if that is the case you are certainly carrying ‘excess baggage’. Look through your lists of roles and see if you can ditch or delegate any of the low scoring ones. Cross them off your list. Of course, some things just have to be done, imagine you have room for hand-luggage only - which roles are absolutely essential? Which do you take most pleasure in? Highlight those on your list. 2. If I wasn’t so busy doing all of the above I’d quite fancy trying:

List ten things, they don’t have to be realistic or practical, you aren’t signing up to do them just dreaming! "Secretly I always wanted to have a go at..." List ten, don’t edit out your wilder imaginings! 3. Listen to your dreams Go through every item from the above exercise, these are nonnegotiable, you choose to write them and need to honour them. Address each item on your lists in turn - you won’t want to act on them all, some can be crossed out and happily released through symbolic action. For example, if you wrote that secretly you’d like to run off and join the circus - you need to consider if you’d really like to, if you are actually going to - now, or when the children are older, or if its a lovely fantasy. If its the latter you could take symbolic action - wear stripy socks or feathery hair slides, for example, when you want to access your circusy self. If something on the lists resonates with you take care not to dismiss it. Instead have a sideways look, search out information on the web - if you can’t act now it may be something for the future, and, in the meantime, have fun imagining! Make a note of anything you’d like to give up, or begin. Take action on one item from the list.

4. Write a 'Ta-Daaa' list! ‘To Do’ lists can be useful but they can also become a negative reminder of everything you didn’t get done. Better by far are 'Ta-Daaa' lists. Choose things to do each day, the urgent tasks that you must get done, things you’d like to do and a scattering of treats and self-nurturings (use your above lists above to help you choose). As you complete an item - cross it out ‘Ta-Daa!’, you’ve achieved something! If there are uncompleted items on your list at the end of the day don’t leave them unresolved. Cross them off with a ‘Ta-Daa’ if you haven’t done them and honestly aren’t going to in the immediate future. Cross them off with a ‘Ta-Daa’ if you just didn’t get round to them, and add to the next day’s list. 5. Golden Time In primary school children are rewarded Golden Time when they have completed their work and been good. They can then choose a fun thing to do as a reward. Our 'Golden Time' works the opposite way round. Do the lovely, nurturing, treaty things first - the chores will fit around them. It works because all those day-to-day jobs and ‘ought to’s’ have a sneaky habit of expanding to fit all the available time. The only way you are going to get round to being nice to yourself is to do it first. Try it!

Be nice to yourself! Isobel Smith started The Flying Club after turning her life around using Self Development Books. She gave up her Graphic Design career of fifteen years and began her vocation as a puppeteer - not a path she had even considered before! (She is now Artistic Director of contemporary puppet company Grist to the Mill). Passionate about encouraging others to follow their dreams too, she took the very best of her findings and adapted, simplified, refined and polished them to create the unique and highly effective Flying Club Process. Concentrating on self-acceptance and delight in the journey, rather than the traditional coaching focus on results alone - the techniques that Isobel uses nurture, champion and ra-ra each of our own uniquely fabulous ways of being. There are many ways to join The Flying Club, designed to suit your schedule and budget, from bespoke one-to-one sessions to group workshops, week-end intensives and special events, or book Isobel Smith to bring the Flying Club experience to your group. The Flying Club currently operates in London and East Sussex. Email: theflyingclubcreative@gmail.com www.theflyingclubcoaching.wordpress.com 07904 208135

Next time - Watch out for Isobel Smith’s feature in the next edition of ABC Magazine: 'Success - how to know when you get there'. Exploring our own unique visions of success and remembering to celebrate every step of the way.

...what Sussex parents really read!

Children’s savings still a myth to one in three parents

lmost one in three parents (31%) wrongly thought that all children could have a junior ISA (with 28% of women and 34% of men believing this to be the case), according to a new independent report that takes the pulse of women’s finances by SavvyWoman.co.uk

Further results from the Women & Money Report research are: • Children’s Savings: Only a third of parents knew that there were limits on how much you can pay into a junior ISA (32% of women and 33% of men). Fewer than one in four parents (22 %) knew that children’s savings accounts have an upper age limit. Slightly more mums (22%) than dads (21%) agreed with this statement. • Everyday money: Almost four out of ten women (39%) feel worse off financially than they did a year ago, twice as many as say they feel better off (19%). • Couples and money: Over four in ten women married or living with their partner (41%) make the decisions about the long term finances compared to 50% of men who say they do. Interestingly, two thirds of

women married or living with their partner aged 55+ (67%) think it’s a joint ask, whereas only one in four men (27%) do! • Investing a lump sum: Given a lump sum of £100,000, over a third of women and men would rather put the money into a savings account or cash ISA than invest it, half as many women say they would invest some or all of their lump sum in share-based investments (12% of women compared to 21% of men) and fewer than one in five of both women and men would splash out on a spending spree. Sarah Pennells, founder of SavvyWoman.co.uk said: “SavvyWoman’s report shows that many parents are baffled about children’s savings. Government figures show that fewer than 300,00 junior ISAs were opened and paid into last year. Maybe if children’s savings weren’t so complicated, more parents would feel encouraged to put money aside for their children.”

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Legal Solutions All Your Legal Worries Answered In each issue of ABC one of Brightonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading firms of Solicitors, Dean Wilson LLP, covers a topic of interest to parents and couples everywhere. In this issue Julian Hunt, Partner of the Family Department and trained Collaborative Lawyer, introduces a concept for dealing with relationship breakdown. The breakdown of a relationship does not have to end up in a blood war. There are those who want to resolve their differences with their former partner with dignity. Such objectives can get lost, however, following an exchange of Solicitor correspondence. Likewise there are occasions when mediation does not work because one partner feels dominated or threatened. There is an alternative process available called Collaborative Law. Collaborative Law allows you to have the benefit of your own independent legal advice whilst enabling you to stay in control and to set the agents and talk about the things that matter most to you and the family.You maintain contact with your partner and in that way have the best chance of understanding each other and finding the right solution. For couples who genuinely seek a fair solution and want to minimise the pain of family breakdown, it may offer the very best way ahead. Imagine, two lawyers representing a separating couple who contract with their clients NOT to go to Court or argue with each other but to pursue, together, a negotiating style giving the parties responsibility for their own settlement. Then imagine a process designed to encourage an agreement, forged together, that brings a sense of dignity to the participants (yes even the lawyers) which just might allow a relationship to end with less acrimony. A Brighton and Hove Collaborative Family Law

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Group (BrightPod) has been formed by lawyers qualified to practice Collaborative Law. The lawyers work from different practices, ensuring independence, but will represent the interests of either of the parties in a collaborative process. Collaborative Law was developed in the United States by lawyers who were frustrated with the adversarial approach of their peers but recognised that for many people, mediation did not provide a sufficient framework of support and advice for the participants. To collaborate the parties each need to appoint a qualified Collaborative Lawyer. The

lawyers will meet with their clients in the normal way and then, almost immediately, meet their opposite number to discuss the process, timing and needs of the couple. The meeting is followed by a series of four way (round table) meetings between the couple and their respective lawyers where every aspect of the divorce/separation is discussed and agreed. Collaborative lawyers commit themselves to the resolution of disputes by agreeing that should there be a breakdown in any negotiations both lawyers will play no further role.

By taking this position the lawyers are liberated from their usual role and are free to help the clients negotiate. Collaborative lawyers aim to put the energy and legal fees into negotiations and settlement not adversarial trial preparation. The traditional negotiating style is positional, both parties ask for more than they are likely to receive in the hope of achieving what they have both been advised they should receive. If the parties have the confidence in both lawyers to approach the negotiations with realism they will save time and money and are more likely to end up with a settlement that they want. Your Solicitor has to be a trained Collaborative Lawyer such as myself. To find out more visit www.collabfamilylaw.org.uk

Specialist advice on:Family Law/Divorce Personal Injury Employment Landlord and Tenant Conveyancing Wills Call 01273 327241 96 Church Street, Brighton BN1 1UJ

www.deanwilson.co.uk

As an ABC reader you can call the Family Department on 01273 249246 to arrange a no obligation telephone discussion with Julian and, if required, a discounted first meeting.

by Lorraine Harrison Head of the School of Education at the University of Brighton

Retrain as a teacher & reap

the rewards

f you are seeking a new career challenge, perhaps to return to work as your children enter school or just have a desire to contribute to society, then teaching could provide you with the opportunity that you are looking for.

Schools are places where rich learning experiences take place. Outstanding teachers have the ability to lead, inspire and enhance pupils’ desire to learn and they can make a difference through fostering curiosity and excitement. Teaching is a wonderful profession; it’s hard work but the rewards and benefits make it one of the most rewarding back-to-work or retraining choices. Not only does teaching

provide a stimulating, varied and progressive career, but the financial benefits include minimum starting salaries of £22,023 and the second largest pension scheme in the country.

management I decided I wanted much more from a career. I’ve always had the idea of teaching and so far, on the School Direct route, I’ve had a fantastic experience.”

Many people have successfully retrained to be a teacher and the verdict of those who have made the change is overwhelmingly positive: One new teacher, Liam, in an interview for the Department for Education, said: “Coming from a background of

Laura, a university trainee, said: “I have always wanted to get into teaching. I have always worked with children and I wanted to progress to working within schools. I considered all different options - however, I really enjoyed the (continued over the page)

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university-based route to do my education.” One individual told how she gave up a well-paid job in journalism at the age of forty to retrain as a teacher. She cited a desire to give something back to society and to do something rewarding as her main goals. Whatever the motive, there has never been a better time to teach.

So how do you retrain as a teacher? With a degree you can qualify in just one year with a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) - this is a popular choice for mature students. There is also the School Direct route which is school-led training and can offer a salaried option. For both these routes it may be possible to do a subject knowledge enhancement course if you need to develop specialist knowledge to teach at secondary level. If you don’t hold a degree you can still complete the training and qualify in three to four years by enrolling on an

New career? Teach EFL (English as a Foreign Language)? You need CELTA! Cambridge Certificate in English Language Teaching for Adults can be your key to a new career! As the internationally recognised qualification in EFL teaching, CELTA equips you with the practical & theoretical knowledge to teach and teach well! In a fully supported environment, you will develop confidence, knowledge and expertise and emerge a competent teacher. Interested? Contact Ugne teachertraining@ise.uk.com 01273 749244 for further information and application details of both part-time and full-time courses.

Grandparents paying for ‘we-time’ holidays

ebsite BabyFriendlyBoltholes.co.uk says more bookings are being paid for by grandparents in a bid to keep families together.

“We’re seeing increasing numbers of grandparents both researching and booking multi-generation breaks” says founder Sian Williams. “Holidaying with grandparents is a ‘win win’ for the whole family. Grandparents get to spend quality time with their extended family and parents can enjoy some ‘we-time’ as a couple thanks to having free ‘granny nanny’ childcare on tap!" 150

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providing teaching and learning undergraduate with Qualified environments that inspire and Teacher Status (QTS) course. Whichever route you take you’ll encourage students to excel in need to have basic qualifications their areas of study by working closely with schools throughout before you start. You will need Sussex. Student teachers are C-grade GCSEs (or standard mentored by teaching teams equivalents) in English and to help ensure you maths, and a science You graduate with QTS. subject if you want will receive to teach primary plenty of Many institutions or Key Stages 2/3 provide bursaries (up to the age of school-based to help those fourteen). You experience students wishing will also need before you to become a to complete the graduate. teacher and these Professional Skills will help cover the cost Tests in literacy and of fees, books, equipment, numeracy, and gain some university accommodation, school classroom experience, travel, study aids, childcare and such as helping in classes. other study-related costs. Some secondary subjects, such as You will receive plenty of maths and computing, studied school-based experience before as a PGCE can attract bursaries you graduate. You will be and scholarships of up to provided with a balance of practical and theoretical learning £25,000. experiences that prepare you for Generations of students have a successful career, whether you been given expert skills and tools are working in a nursery, school to become great teachers who, or an adult education setting. collectively and individually, can change our communities for Where can you study? There are many teacher training the better. Teaching is a really exciting career choice and you providers throughout the UK. Most have open days so you can can feel secure in the knowledge that graduate employment rates go and visit before applying. As are good. BAC well as having a look around at the facilities you will also Lorraine Harrison is the Head of the be able to talk to staff and School of Education at the University current students. One of the of Brighton, which is one of the largest main teaching training centres teaching training providers in the country and rated outstanding by Ofsted. in Sussex is the University of Brighton. It is committed to

Starting up on your own? Business Link Helpline - for help and advice on starting or growing your business. Tel: 0845 600 9006 The British Franchise Association - for advice if you are thinking of joining a franchise or franchising your business. www.thebfa.org

by Karan Hopper Kameleon Marketing

Social media for your business are you finding the time?

s a time-starved business owner, parent and home-maker, it’s probably hard to find time to manage your business’s social media marketing! And yet manage it you must - since it won’t work for you without time invested in it. Sometimes it’s hard to know exactly what to communicate in your social media status updates - it can feel like you spend half of your time thinking about what to write. Save time - write an editorial calendar Look ahead a few months and spend an hour or two choosing themes for your updates. That way you don’t have to think too much when it comes to posting each day/week. Short and sweet... and relevant In terms of what to post, it needs to be of interest to your followers and ‘likers’ but it also needs to serve the purpose of getting your brand and message across. Regular posting also keeps you front of mind, but again be careful not to post too often as this just becomes annoying and will, have no doubt, damage your brand/ professional image.

David and Diane Cox had always been lovers of music. When David was made redundant from his IT role during the recession of the 1990s, he utilised his talents as a jazz musician to teach music in schools. Diane already had a background in education as a primary school teacher. Despite having rewarding roles, David and Diane passionately believed that if children were introduced to music in their preschool years, they would not only develop an early appreciation of music but would also form stronger bonds with their parents and become more confident individuals. It was this idea that inspired them to create the music education programme ‘Music with Mummy’ in their own front room; with David on the piano accompanying Diane taking the classes. Diane, perhaps the first ever ‘Mumtrepreneur’ explains, “We give children the freedom to learn and explore music. Little ones can get lost in big groups which is why we always keep the classes small.” Now in its 25th year, ‘Music with Mummy’ has grown with people like Ann-Marie running classes all over the UK. With 11 years experience of running her own classes, Ann-Marie is now looking for people to help bring ‘Music with Mummy’ to the beautiful county of Sussex. Despite its huge success, the founding principles remain which is reflected in the fact that the classes are still based on the original music and songs created by David and Diane. Sadly David recently passed away while working on a composition for a new local village pantomime. Diana completed his work and today is still doing what she loves the most - running her own classes and putting her voice to David’s music. If setting up and running your own groups appeals to you please contact Ann-Marie on 01276 670221 or annmarie@mwmsussex.co.uk

Karan Hopper is a mum of two young ones and owns Kameleon Marketing, a Hove-based business offering affordable, flexible marketing services for small businesses, start-ups and sole traders. Kameleon Marketing is passionate about bringing effective and affordable marketing to local businesses to help them thrive and grow. Find out more at kameleon-marketing.com or contact Karan on karan@kameleonmarketing.com or 07720 443263 for a free 30 minute consultation.

Sales opportunity We are looking for a self-employed, self-starter with at least fifteen child-free hours a week available to sell advertising space in ABC Magazine to local businesses in Sussex. If you think you would enjoy this and are well presented and confident, enjoy talking to people, have a good standard of literacy and excellent organisational skills - then give us a call! Sales experience useful but not essential. You will need a landline telephone, computer, email, your own car and lots of enthusiasm! Call Rachel on 01273 542257 or email sussex@abcmag.co.uk

www.abcmag.co.uk

Some suggestions... Here are some thoughts on some of the things you could post, to help you save time: • Direct promotional posts to the benefits of your products • Product updates • New courses/services/products

• Recent new articles, press releases, links to PR coverage • New books you have written or of interest to readers • Recent research • Interesting facts • Seasonal messages (Happy Christmas, Easter etc) • Customer testimonials or results if they are happy to publish • New accreditations or memberships • New clients • Link to your blog when a new post is up • Polls - a good way to start discussion on something to get your customers engaged

‘Music with Mummy’ is coming to Sussex!

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Ever thought of becoming a foster carer?

by Virginia Collison Fostering Adoption Service Brighton & Hove City Council

Our fostering family share their story. A stable family home - it's the best present we can give any child. For most of us holidays and birthdays are a time for joy and celebration. But for children in care it can be a difficult time. Foster carers Mandy and Rob Goddard have been sharing their home with children of all ages in their care for more than twenty years. They foster for Brighton & Hove City council and we met with them to find out some of the benefits of fostering... "We treat the children we look after as part of our family. For

children who've had a difficult start in life and can't live with their parents, just being able to enjoy regular family times can be a big bonus. When a child comes to stay with us we welcome them into our home and try to make them feel comfortable; everyone wants to feel loved and cared for." Rob knows just how it feels - he himself was fostered as a child. "I had one set of foster carers for the whole of my childhood," he said. "They always treated me as

A culture lesson at the breakfast table and a great way to boost your income.

part of their family, and that's what we do now. Fostering means everything to me. I was lucky, so for me it's now about giving something back and letting other children share the good fortune that I had." They both say fostering is about being there for children, listening to them and giving them time and attention. "Kids need to feel a sense of belonging. They need warmth and nurturing but they also need boundaries," says Rob.

"Not many teenagers want to be told when they need to be home by on a Saturday night. But at the same time they know that you're only making a fuss because you care about them. Sometimes children who have been neglected in the past are really appreciative even of basic things like clean clothes and baths, let alone love and kindness." Building trust is the key, says Mandy. "We try to be honest with the children we look after and help them make the best of their lives and fulfil their potential. Sometimes they act tough but

Given the continuing huge demand for places at UK boarding schools from overseas, Bright World Guardianships, a Sussex based company, is predicting yet another increase this year in the number of students who will be joining schools in the UK. Bright World Guardianships is a long established guardianship company charged with offering care to international students in UK boarding schools whose parents are not living here. These bright and brave young students are full boarders at schools but need host family accommodation when schools close for short breaks such as half-terms and exeat weekends. With so many excellent independent schools in the UK, it is likely that an increase in demand will be evident here. Hosting international students is a very fulfilling and rewarding role. Bright World do, of course, pay a generous nightly rate to cover expenses for visiting children which can offer a valuable extra income to families. More than this though, hosting a young international student can make their entire experience in the UK a happy one. If you welcome them into your home they will actually look forward to exeats and half-terms and it will enhance their overall experience and impression of the UK. Your children will also benefit from the exposure to sharing their home with an international student and will learn about new cultures and countries - think of it as a geography and culture lesson at your breakfast table! So becoming a Bright World host family can not only help pay for that annual holiday but will help to educate your own children to new cultures and at the same time make a young international studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life so much better. For more information on becoming a host family for Bright World Guardianships, please contact: Lindsay Gayle on lindsay@brightworld.co.uk

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it's a defence mechanism. When they realise that you're not going to give up on them you see the change and it's really exciting. They have so much to give. It's about boosting their confidence and making them feel good about themselves. You can make a huge difference to their lives, and that's a great feeling." We asked Rob and Mandy about some of the challenges of fostering. They said, "Ask any parent and they'll tell you you're always going to have your ups and downs with children, particularly teenagers but we get really good support from all the council's social workers and fostering team. Even after all these years the ongoing training we get is still really useful." Mandy and Rob have two birth children of their own, now in their twenties. The younger one never knew anything other than growing up with foster children Mandy said: "We're a good team and I think fostering also keeps us feeling young!

I think us being foster carers has also been good for our own children. They've both said they want to be foster carers themselves when the time is right for them. As foster carers you have to accept that the children you look after are not your children, and that they will go when they are ready. But it's lovely that so many of them have stayed in touch." You can foster if you have a spare room and significant childcare experience - there is no upper age limit - we positively welcome older people and single people and you can foster whether you own or rent your property. If you think fostering may be right for you please get in touch - we'd love to hear from you. Virginia Collison is a Recruitment & Publicity Officer for B.M.E. Carers. Recruitment Team Fostering AdoptionService Brighton & Hove City Council Telephone: 01273 295444 www.fosteringinbrightonandhove.org.uk

New award winning adoption service now available in Sussex

Parents And Children Together (PACT) is expanding its awarding winning adoption service with a new office in Brighton. “We adopted two brothers through PACT last year, it was a dream come true to become parents and family life ever since has been filled with love, joy and laughter. PACT has been supportive throughout our journey and we are pleased they are coming to Brighton with a new office to help more families to choose adoption.” Jacek and Andrzej, PACT Family. PACT’s Outstanding services ensured that 100% of LGBT applicants have been approved by panel in the past two years. All PACT LGBT families become lifelong members of New Family Social. Visit the PACT website to download a Guide to Adoption or register to attend a PACT adoption information evening. www.pactcharity.org 0300 456 4800 ABC Magazine - Sussex 153

Pillow talk

think it may be a sign of getting old but as far as I am concerned finding the perfect pillow is a moment of pure pleasure. Sleep experts Dunelm Mill explain how to find the right pillow so a comfortable and restful night's sleep can be achieved - as long as the children are sleeping too! When it comes to pillows, it is not a case of one type fits all. Different sleeping positions require different levels of support from a pillow in terms of shape, height and pillow filling.

sleeps on their side, a firm pillow is required that can maintain its shape to support the spine. Alternatively, for a small frame then a soft to medium pillow will suffice.

The filling The next consideration is the choice of filling. Today there is a large variety to choose from. Natural pillow filling offers that little bit of luxury. In addition to comfort, these fillings are light, long lasting and allow skin to breathe. Synthetic fibres, the preferred choice of allergy sufferers, are also easy to care for, so Sleep on your... they can be washed • ...side? Medium more regularly Synthetic to firm pillows than natural fibres, the offer more fillings. This support to makes them a preferred choice keep the spine of allergy sufferers, popular choice aligned. for children. are also easy to • ...back? Choose care for... a soft to medium Size pillow to support The correct choice the shoulders. in size is extremely • ...front? Opt for a soft pillow important. Pillows come in to reduce neck strain. four sizes; first bed, standard, king size and V shape . For Body frame young children select first bed, It is also important to take standard or king size which fit body frame into account. If the the beds they correspond to, and sleeper has broad shoulders and V shape pillows provide comfort Sleeping style Before making a pillow purchase, it's important to think about sleeping position. Ultimately, the goal of using a pillow is to help keep the head in a comfortable neutral position, and fully supported without it leaning back too far or being too upright.

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for sitting up in bed or can act as a nursing pillow. Care After selecting the right pillow type, it's important to take good care of them to make them last. You can help to prolong the life of their pillows by following these simple steps: • Use pillow protectors. Protectors keep out dust mites and keep everything clean and hygienic.

• Never have a natural fibre duvet or pillow dry cleaned as the chemicals will damage the filling. • Always follow the care instructions, they can be found on a label sewn on to the seam or on the packaging. • Dry and air pillows thoroughly before putting them back on the bed.

Top tips for making your home

allergy-free

he fibres in your chairs and carpets harbour thousands of hidden allergens and allergy sufferers might be surprised to know this is a good thing! The fibres of your carpet and upholstery act as filters, holding the spores and pollen, reducing the amount in the air and thus the amount you breathe in. Ian McCormack, technical expert at ServiceMaster Clean offers homeowners some top tips on keeping their homes allergy-free. Pollen in your sofa Pollen is all around us in the air and upholstery fabrics are fantastic at capturing and holding these minute particles. Every time you flop into your favourite sofa or chair, however, millions of allergens are thrown back into the air. To combat this your upholstery should be thoroughly vacuumed to remove the allergens. Take off all cushions and use the nozzle attachment to vacuum the hard to reach areas including arms, sides and creases of the fabric. If you use a gently slapping action while you vacuum you will loosen the dust particles, making it easier to vacuum them up. Pollen in your curtains Your curtains are constantly exposed to indoor and outdoor dust and debris and, in particular, pollen. A simple tip is to simply vacuum the curtains while you are doing the rest of the room. Go in both directions, up and down, so you get rid of any allergens trapped in the pile of the fabric. Don’t forget pelmets and pleats, great for harbouring unwanted pollen and dust! Mould One of the greatest problems with modern, well-insulated homes is the lack of airmovement needed to dispel the moisture produced by general day-to-day living. Mould physically cannot live where there is air movement, so open doors and windows to ‘air’ homes whenever possible.

Dirt One of the easiest and most effective ways of preventing the build-up of dirt on your floors is to invest in a good set of doormats. A harsher mat on the outside to remove any outside debris, combined with a softer mat on the inside to absorb moisture, will help to keep your floors cleaner. Dust If dust is an issue for your health, consider carpet rather than hardwood flooring. Carpets can actually be a better option for allergy sufferers, because the fibres of the carpet act like a filter, catching pollen and spores and not letting them hover in the atmosphere of the room. To help maintain a clean and healthy environment, ServiceMaster Clean recommend having your carpets professionally cleaned every six to twelve months. This will not only help to keep them dust and pollen free, but will also prolong their lifespan. Pet Pet hair can gradually build up in fibres and the surfaces of your soft furnishings. Try using a rubber glove to gently wipe across the surface. The hairs will ball together and can then be easily removed.

priceless yet free!

Carpet, rug, upholstery & hard floor cleaning

All staff are fully trained & insured (01273) 558356 or 07846 908 397 www.freshfloors.co.uk office@freshfloors.co.uk

✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷ Win fab prizes with Hygienic home hamper

It can be difficult to know what products are best to keep the home safe when babies and young children are around. As your little one’s immune system only begins to produce antibodies at two to three months old, it is important to take extra precautions before bringing a newborn home, to ensure maximum protection from the bacteria and viruses that exist. Good home hygiene routines, such as hand washing and surface disinfection, have been scientifically proven to reduce the risk of infection around the home. Even adding Dettol Anti-Bacterial Laundry Cleanser to the household washing can help prevent the spread of cold and flu viruses among the family. Luckily, Dettol are on hand with a selection of products that allow mums to take straightforward measures in ensuring all materials and surfaces that come into contact with newborns are hygienically clean. We’ve teamed up with Dettol to offer 1 lucky ABC reader the chance to win a fantastic luxury hamper worth £100 featuring the latest products from the Dettol range, along with a super soft baby robe and cuddly bunny from The White Company. For your chance of winning, simply tell us what home hygiene routines have been scientifically proven to reduce the spread of germs and bacteria in the home? Normal ABC competition rules apply and can be found on page 3.

ABC Magazine - Sussex 155

Page-by-page directory Shopping & Services This directory has been created to help ensure easy reference to the local businesses which support us. ABC is free and will remain so as long as the advertisers are aware of THE magazine that Sussex parents read! Please mention ABC when replying to adverts, give copies to your friends, and help spread the word!

Activity Classes

The Baby & Toddler Experience 7 Seaford, Lewes, Newhaven 07834 231971 www.thebabyandtoddlerexperience.co.uk Buenos Dias 25 Sussex 01273 323431 www.buenosdias.co.uk Carden Tots 8 Brighton 01273 540779 www.cardentots.co.uk Crocodoodle 43 Shoreham 07967 198 737 www.crocodoodle.co.uk Die Strandzwerge 25 Brighton 07930 494822 www.strandzwerge.co.uk Drama Queens 18 Brighton 07811 440278 www.dramaqueens.biz Gymboree Brighton 9 Brighton 01273 772900 www.gymboree-uk.com i-star Academy 23 Sussex 07843 666251 www.i-staracademy.wix.com/istaracademy Kicks Dance 17 West Sussex 07722 826162 www.kicksdance.co.uk Little Ninjas 8 Brighton, Lewes, Shoreham, Seaford 01323 873753 www.scrivenlittleninjas.co.uk Little Stars Academy 17 Worthing 01903 205525 www.little-stars-academy.co.uk Magic Moves 18 Brighton 01273 600126 www.magicmovesdance.com Mini Music 14 Hove 01273 326923 www.minimusic.info Mister Magnolia 91 Ditchling 01273 846638 www.mistermagnolia.co.uk Monkey Music 13 Lewes, Uckfield, Crowborough, & Haywards Heath 01825 760970 www.monkeymusic.co.uk/area/lewes-uckfieldcrowborough Music For Aardvarks & Other Mammals 13 Brighton & Hove 07886 927081 www.uk-aardvarks.co.uk Portslade Sports Centre 7 Portslade 01273 411100 www.portsladesportscentre.co.uk Samurai Martial Arts Centre 117 Brighton & Newhaven 01273 570940 www.samuraibrighton.com Sing & Sign 15 Brighton & Hove 01273 540266 Chichester 01243 790330 Eastbourne 01323 365324 Horsham 01403 242982 Lewes 01273 243786 Worthing 07941 106695 www.singandsign.com Sing And Stomp 14 Hassocks 07826 194 147 www.singandstomp.co.uk Tumble Tots 9 Hove to Seaford 07727 137511 Worthing to Haywards Heath 07799 148286 www.tumbletots.com Wickers Gym Club 10 Lancing 01273 465554 www.wickers.btck.co.uk

Activity Toys

North Park Farm Activity Toys Sussex 01273 833643 www.northparkfarm.co.uk

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Acupuncture Tree Of Life Centre Hove 01273 220159 www.tolcentre.com

137

Adoption Services

Brighton & Hove Fostering & Adoption Service 153 Brighton & Hove 01273 295444 www.fosteringinbrightonandhove.org.uk PACT 153 Sussex 0300 456 4800 www.pactcharity.org

After School & Holiday Care Brighton & Hove Montessori School Brighton 01273 702485 www.brighton-montessori.org.uk Freedom Leisure Sussex www.freedom-leisure.co.uk Playcare Nursery Brighton 01273 746316 www.playcarenursery.co.uk Worthing Leisure Worthing 01903 502237 www.worthingleisure.co.uk

119 47 107

After School Education Fleet Tutors Sussex 0845 644 5452 www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

Gazoob Nationwide www.gazoob.com

Arts & Crafts

5 105 43 107

Baby Sign Language Sing & Sign Brighton & Hove 01273 540266 Chichester 01243 790330 Eastbourne 01323 365324 Horsham 01403 242982 Lewes 01273 243786 Worthing 07941 106695 www.singandsign.com

Babysitting

125 138

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West Hove Hypnotherapy Hove 07977 788471 www.westhovehypnotherapy.co.uk

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Complementary Health & Therapies

Brighton Cakes Sussex 07824 770151 www.brightoncakes.com Buddy’s Home Bakery Sussex 01273 420283 www.buddyshomebakery.co.uk

102 103

The Blueberry Clinic Sussex 07939 295273 www.blueberryclinic.co.uk Dolphin House Charity The Children’s Clinic Brighton 01273 324790 www.dolphin-house.org.uk Every Body Therapy Brighton & Hove 01273 447841 www.everybodytherapy.co.uk Henry House Worthing 01903 232875 www.henryhouse.net Hove Osteopathic Clinic Hove 01273 208410 www.hoveosteopathicclinic.co.uk The Perfect Pamper Sussex 01273 447841 www.theperfectpamper.com Southwick Psychology Shoreham 07522 379564 www.southwickpsychology.co.uk Tree Of Life Centre Hove 01273 220159 www.tolcentre.com West Hove Hypnotherapy Hove 07977 788471 www.westhovehypnotherapy.co.uk

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La Casita Hove 01273 323431 www.lacasitanursery.co.uk Sitters Nationwide 08447 367 367 www.sitters.co.uk

Emily Burns Child Counsellor Brighton, Lewes 07905 207 476 www.childcounsellingbrighton.co.uk Tree Of Life Centre Hove 01273 220159 www.tolcentre.com

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Business Opportunities Music With Mummy Sussex 01276 670221 www.musicwithmummy.co.uk

Cafés

Mister Magnolia Ditchling 01273 846638 www.mistermagnolia.co.uk

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Fresh Floors Sussex 01273 558356 www.freshfloors.co.uk

Castings

Keepsake Castings Sussex 01444 881314 www.facebook.com/keepsakecastings.co.uk

Celebration Cakes

Children’s Books

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155

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Rockinghorse Sussex 01273 330044 www.rockinghorse.org.uk

Children’s Charities

Dolphin House Charity The Children’s Clinic Brighton 01273 324790 www.dolphin-house.org.uk

Children’s Therapy Darling Buds of Play Sussex 07833 583047 www.darlingbudsofplay.co.uk

South East Christmas Fair Fontwell Park Racecourse, Fontwell www.southeastchristmasfair.co.uk Stylish Christmas Fairs Brighton 01903 366163 www.stylishchristmasfairs.co.uk Sussex Family Christmas Fair Extravaganza Worthing www.sussexfamilychristmasfair.co.uk

Clinical Psychologist

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128

85 85

Southwick Psychology Shoreham 07522 379564 www.southwickpsychology.co.uk

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The Flying Club Creative Coaching Sussex 07904 208135 www.theflyingclubcoaching.com

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Coaching

Counselling

Cranial Osteopathy Dance & Drama

Hilda Offen - Children’s Author Nationwide www.troikabooks.com

Christmas Fairs

Sitters Nationwide 08447 367 367 www.sitters.co.uk

Birthing Support

Children’s Health

Baby Goods & Nursery Equipment MummaBubba Jewellery UK Nationwide 08444 990045 www.mummabubba.co.uk The Washable Nappy Company Sussex 01424 434580 www.thewashablenappy.co.uk

Breeze up to the Downs Brighton & Hove 01273 292480 www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/breezebuses

Childcare

Apps

Artroom Brighton Hove 01273 240308 www.artroombrighton.co.uk Clare Rose Mosaics Brighton 01273 541589 www.clarerosedesigns.co.uk Crocodoodle Shoreham 07967 198 737 www.crocodoodle.co.uk Evergreen Arts Sussex 07813 403909 www.evergreenarts.co.uk

Bus Travel

Brighton & Hove Dance Academy Brighton & Hove 07500 724236 www.brightonandhovedanceacademy.co.uk Dance Art Studio Brighton 01273 556313 www.danceartstudio.co.uk Drama Queens Brighton 07811 440278 www.dramaqueens.biz Goldmans Stage School Brighton, Eastbourne 01323 643961 www.shana-goldmans.co.uk Kicks Dance West Sussex 07722 826162 www.kicksdance.co.uk Little Stars Academy Worthing 01903 205525 www.little-stars-academy.co.uk Magic Moves Brighton 01273 600126 www.magicmovesdance.com Rox School Of Dance & Drama Hove 01273 208513 www.roxschoolofdancing.co.uk

Development Classes The Baby & Toddler Experience Seaford, Lewes, Newhaven 07834 231971 www.thebabyandtoddlerexperience.co.uk

Dyslexia & Learning Difficulties

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Mitchells Dyslexia Facility West Sussex 07880 793239 www.mitchellsdyslexiafacility.co.uk

ÉtudEO Pulborough 07766 734469 www.etudeo.org.uk Gazoob Nationwide www.gazoob.com Mitchells Dyslexia Facility West Sussex 07880 793239 www.mitchellsdyslexiafacility.co.uk Self Managed Learning College Brighton 01273 703691 www.college.selfmanagedlearning.org Speech House Ltd Sussex 01903 530681 www.speech-house.co.uk www.aramazu.com Nationwide www.aramazu.com

Educational Support

29 64 65 31 60

Elective Learning ÉtudEO Pulborough 07766 734469 www.etudeo.org.uk

Employment & Training

Fostering & Adoption

Brighton & Hove Fostering & Adoption Service Brighton & Hove 01273 295444 www.fosteringinbrightonandhove.org.uk

Fundraising

ISE Brighton & Hove 01273 749244 www.isehove.com University Of Brighton Brighton 01273 643386 www.brighton.ac.uk/teaching

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Rockinghorse Sussex 01273 330044 www.rockinghorse.org.uk

Sitters Nationwide 08447 367 367 www.sitters.co.uk

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North Park Farm Activity Toys Sussex 01273 833643 www.northparkfarm.co.uk

Barnard Optometrists Hove 01273 772318 www.barnard-optometrists.co.uk

Amberley Museum & Heritage Centre Amberley 01798 831370 www.amberleymuseum.co.uk Blackberry Farm Whitesmith, Nr Lewes 01825 872912 www.blackberry-farm.co.uk Breeze up to the Downs Brighton & Hove 01273 292480 www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/breezebuses Fishers Adventure Farm Park Wisborough Green 01403 700063 www.fishersfarmpark.co.uk The Hawth Crawley 01293 553636 www.hawth.co.uk Hever Castle Near Edenbridge, Kent 01732 865224 www.hevercastle.co.uk Mid Hants Railway Watercress Line New Alresford, Hampshire 01962 733810 www.watercressline.co.uk Out Of Bounds Rustington 01903 788588 www.out-of-bounds.co.uk South East Christmas Fair Fontwell Park Racecourse, Fontwell www.southeastchristmasfair.co.uk Stylish Christmas Fairs Brighton 01903 366163 www.stylishchristmasfairs.co.uk Sussex Family Christmas Fair Extravaganza Worthing www.sussexfamilychristmasfair.co.uk VegFestUK Brighton & Hove www.brighton.vegfest.co.uk Visit Worthing Worthing & Adur www.visitworthing.co.uk Washbrooks Farm Hurstpierpoint 01273 832201 www.washbrooks.co.uk WWT Arundel Wetland Centre Arundel 01903 881530 www.wwt.org.uk/visit-us/arundel

Evening Babysitting Eyecare

Family Day Out

Family Farms

Fishers Adventure Farm Park Wisborough Green 01403 700063 www.fishersfarmpark.co.uk Washbrooks Farm Hurstpierpoint 01273 832201 www.washbrooks.co.uk

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87 91 85 85

85 84 93 83 83

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Garden Games Gifts

Hilda Offen - Children’s Author Nationwide www.troikabooks.com Jwls Nationwide 07971 929146 www.jwls.co.uk Keepsake Castings Sussex 01444 881314 www.facebook.com/keepsakecastings.co.uk

Guardianship Bright World Nationwide www.brightworld.co.uk

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97 98

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New Mums 6 Week Shape Up Nationwide www.newmums6weekshapeup.co.uk Pure Aerobics Brighton Brighton & Hove 07786 038973 www.pureaerobicsbrighton.com

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The Blueberry Clinic Sussex 07939 295273 www.blueberryclinic.co.uk

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VegFestUK Brighton & Hove www.brighton.vegfest.co.uk

Esprit Holidays Nationwide 01483 791 900 www.espritski.com

Healthy Eating Holidays

Fresh Floors Sussex 01273 558356 www.freshfloors.co.uk

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Bright World Nationwide www.brightworld.co.uk

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The Brickwall Hotel Sedlescombe, Battle 01424 870253 www.brickwallhotel.co.uk

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West Hove Hypnotherapy Hove 07977 788471 www.westhovehypnotherapy.co.uk

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West Hove Hypnotherapy Hove 07977 788471 www.westhovehypnotherapy.co.uk

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Host Families 30

Every Body Therapy Brighton & Hove 01273 447841 www.everybodytherapy.co.uk Purepotions Skincare Nationwide 01273 623123 www.purepotions.co.uk Skin Confidence Brighton 07530 978856 www.skin-confidence.com

Health Education

Fleet Tutors Sussex 0845 644 5452 www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

Homes & Gardens

i-star Academy 23 Sussex 07843 666251 www.i-staracademy.wix.com/istaracademy Tumble Tots 9 Hove to Seaford 07727 137511 www.tumbletots.com Tumble Tots 9 Worthing to Haywards Heath 07799 148286 www.tumbletots.com Wickers Gym Club 10 Lancing 01273 465554 www.wickers.btck.co.uk

Health & Fitness

Home Tuition 85

Gymnastics

Hair, Skin & Beauty

Self Managed Learning College Brighton 01273 703691 www.college.selfmanagedlearning.org

133 131

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Hotels

Hypnobirthing Hypnotherapy

Independent Schools Annan The Froebel School Uckfield 01825 841410 www.annanschool.co.uk Ashdown House School Forest Row 01342 822574 www.ashdownhouse.co.uk Brighton & Hove High School Brighton 01273 280151 www.bhhs.gdst.net Brighton & Hove Montessori School Brighton 01273 702485 www.brighton-montessori.org.uk Brighton College Brighton 01273 704343 www.brightoncollege.org.uk Brighton Steiner School Brighton 01273 386300 www.brightonsteinerschool.org.uk Burgess Hill School for Girls Burgess Hill 01444 241050 www.burgesshill-school.com Deepdene School Hove 01273 418984 www.deepdeneschool.com The Dharma Primary School Brighton 01273 502055 www.dharmaschool.co.uk ÉtudEO Pulborough 07766 734469 www.etudeo.org.uk Farlington School Horsham 01403 254967 www.farlingtonschool.net Great Walstead School Lindfield 01444 483528 www.greatwalstead.co.uk Hurstpierpoint College Prep School Hurstpierpoint 01273 836936 www.hppc.co.uk Lewes New School Lewes 01273 477074 www.lewesnewschool.co.uk Mayfield School Mayfield 01435 874600 www.mayfieldgirls.org

Our Lady Of Sion School Worthing 01903 204063 www.sionschool.org.uk The Prebendal School Chichester 01243 520970 www.prebendalschool.org.uk Self Managed Learning College Brighton 01273 703691 www.college.selfmanagedlearning.org Shoreham College Shoreham-By-Sea 01273 592681 www.shorehamcollege.co.uk St Bede’s School Eastbourne 01323 734222 www.bedes.org Tavistock & Summerhill Nursery & Prep School Haywards Heath 01444 450256 www.tavistockandsummerhill.co.uk Windlesham School Brighton 01273 553645 www.windleshamschool.co.uk

Jewellery

MummaBubba Jewellery UK Nationwide 08444 990045 www.mummabubba.co.uk

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61 78 75 63 79 62 75 56 62 67 71 79 59 61 73

is FREE

and will remain so as long as the advertisers are aware of THE magazine that Sussex parents read! Please mention ABC when replying to adverts, give copies to your friends, and help spread the word!

This page-by-page shopping & services directory is to help ensure easy reference to the local businesses which support ABC Magazine Sussex. It is also a list of where you can pick up a free copy of the latest issue 90% of our advertisers also distribute the magazine.

www.abcmag.co.uk

All ABC advertisers are also listed on our website with a direct link to their website. ABC Magazine is also now available on-line as a fully interactive easy-to-read and search digital magazine! ABC Magazine - Sussex 157

(continued from previous page)

Keepsakes

Jwls Nationwide 07971 929146 www.jwls.co.uk Keepsake Castings Sussex 01444 881314 www.facebook.com/keepsakecastings.co.uk

Labelling

97 98

Buenos Dias Sussex 01273 323431 www.buenosdias.co.uk Chinese Lessons Brighton 07796 210160 www.chinaspecial.co.uk Die Strandzwerge Brighton 07930 494822 www.strandzwerge.co.uk

Language Schools ISE Brighton & Hove www.isehove.com

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150

01273 749244

Legal Advice

Dean Wilson LLP - Solicitors Brighton 01273 327241 www.deanwilson.co.uk

148

Freedom Leisure Sussex www.freedom-leisure.co.uk Portslade Sports Centre Portslade 01273 411100 www.portsladesportscentre.co.uk Worthing Leisure Worthing 01903 502237 www.worthingleisure.co.uk

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Leisure Centres

Martial Arts

Little Ninjas Brighton, Lewes, Shoreham, Seaford 01323 873753 www.scrivenlittleninjas.co.uk Samurai Martial Arts Centre Brighton & Newhaven 01273 570940 www.samuraibrighton.com

Massage Therapy Every Body Therapy Brighton & Hove 01273 447841 www.everybodytherapy.co.uk The Perfect Pamper Sussex 01273 447841 www.theperfectpamper.com

Mosaics

Clare Rose Mosaics Brighton 01273 541589 www.clarerosedesigns.co.uk

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130 134

Music & Singing

Drama Queens 18 Brighton 07811 440278 www.dramaqueens.biz Gymboree Brighton 9 Brighton 01273 772900 www.gymboree-uk.com Little Stars Academy 17 Worthing 01903 205525 www.little-stars-academy.co.uk Mini Music 14 Hove 01273 326923 www.minimusic.info Monkey Music 13 Lewes, Uckfield, Crowborough, & Haywards Heath 01825 760970 www.monkeymusic.co.uk/area/lewes-uckfieldcrowborough Music For Aardvarks & Other Mammals 13 Brighton & Hove 07886 927081 www.uk-aardvarks.co.uk Music With Mike 104 Sussex 07528 004428 www.musicwithmike.co.uk Sing & Sign 15 Brighton & Hove 01273 540266 Chichester 01243 790330 Eastbourne 01323 365324 Horsham 01403 242982 Lewes 01273 243786 Worthing 07941 106695 www.singandsign.com Sing And Stomp 14 Hassocks 07826 194 147 www.singandstomp.co.uk Susanna Cassam Music Tuition 11 Brighton & Hove 01273 504505 www.cassam.co.uk

158

Music With Mike Sussex 07528 004428 www.musicwithmike.co.uk Susanna Cassam Music Tuition Brighton & Hove 01273 504505 www.cassam.co.uk

Nappies

My Name Label Nationwide 0870 850 7897 www.mynamelabel.co.uk

Language Classes

Music Tuition

ABC Magazine - Sussex

The Washable Nappy Company Sussex 01424 434580 www.thewashablenappy.co.uk

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Nurseries & Pre-School Education ActiveKids Nursery Hove 01273 911876 www.activekidsnursery.com The Angmering Day Nursery Angmering 01903 779324 www.angmeringdaynursery.co.uk Annan The Froebel School Uckfield 01825 841410 www.annanschool.co.uk Ashdown House School Forest Row 01342 822574 www.ashdownhouse.co.uk Birdham Pre-School Birdham Chichester 01243 514562 www.birdham-preschool.co.uk Blueberry Nursery Hove 01273 733799 www.blueberrynursery.co.uk Brighton & Hove High School Brighton 01273 280151 www.bhhs.gdst.net Brighton & Hove Montessori School Brighton 01273 702485 www.brighton-montessori.org.uk Brighton College Brighton 01273 704343 www.brightoncollege.org.uk Brighton Steiner School Brighton 01273 386300 www.brightonsteinerschool.org.uk Cbabiesafe Hove 01273 770441 Worthing 01903 215020 www.cbabiesafe.com Chelwood Gate Nursery Chelwood Gate 07759 068015 www.chelwoodgatenursery.co.uk Crocodoodle Shoreham 07967 198 737 www.crocodoodle.co.uk Deepdene School Hove 01273 418984 www.deepdeneschool.com The Dharma Primary School Brighton 01273 502055 www.dharmaschool.co.uk Die Strandzwerge Brighton 07930 494822 www.strandzwerge.co.uk The Dolphins Pre-school Hove 01273 500513 www.dolphins.ik.org Each Peach Childcare Hove 01273 323199 www.eachpeachchildcare.co.uk Ă&#x2030;tudEO Pulborough 07766 734469 www.etudeo.org.uk Farlington School Horsham 01403 254967 www.farlingtonschool.net Footsteps Day Nursery Brighton 01273 508533 Hove 01273 779034 Portslade 01273 416164 www.footstepsdaynursery.com Funland Pre-School Hove 01273 821377 www.funlandpreschoolhove.blogspot.co.uk Great Walstead School Lindfield 01444 483528 www.greatwalstead.co.uk Growing Up Green Day Nursery Brighton 01273 551333 Brighton 01273 542888 www.growingupgreen.co.uk Hopscotch Sussex 01273 385577 www.hopscotch.uk.com The Horsham Day Nursery Horsham 01403 217600 www.angmeringdaynursery.co.uk The Hove Day Nursery Hove 01273 933496 www.angmeringdaynursery.co.uk Hurstpierpoint College Nursery & Pre Prep Hurstpierpoint 01273 836936 www.hppc.co.uk

53 50 61 78 52 44 57 63 79 62 52

33 43 56 62

Joyland Brighton 01273 554886 www.brighton-nurseries.co.uk La Casita Hove 01273 323431 www.lacasitanursery.co.uk Lewes New School Lewes 01273 477074 www.lewesnewschool.co.uk My First Friends Nursery Brighton 01273 541026 www.myfirstfriendsnursery.co.uk My First Word Brighton 01273 933240 Brighton 01273 933620 Hove 01273 933161 www.myfirstwordgrowsup.co.uk Nursery 51 Burgess Hill 01444 237008 www.nursery51.com Oak Cottage Nursery Brighton 01273 680541 www.oakcottagenursery.org Orchard Day Nursery & After-school Club Brighton 01273 622883 www.orchard-daynursery.co.uk Oscar Bears Day Care Henfield 01273 640686 www.oscarbear.co.uk

46 43 61 48 39

55 40 40 46

Our Lady Of Sion School Worthing 01903 204063 www.sionschool.org.uk Pepper Pot Nursery Brighton 01273 709595 Pepper Pot Nursery Brighton 01273 620335 Playcare Nursery Brighton 01273 746316 www.playcarenursery.co.uk The Prebendal School Chichester 01243 520970 www.prebendalschool.org.uk Pumpkin Patch Brighton 01273 554484 Hove 01273 227000 www.pumpkinpatchnursery.com Rudyard Kipling Primary School & Nursery Brighton 01273 303328 www.kiplink.co.uk Shoreham College Shoreham-By-Sea 01273 592681 www.shorehamcollege.co.uk Singing Tree Kindergarten Brighton 01273 386300 www.brightonsteinerschool.org.uk

Call 112

all 112 to contact any emergency service (police, fire brigade, ambulance) in all twenty-seven countries of the European Union from your home, mobile phone and public phones for free.

When? Call 112 in any emergency where police, fire brigade or ambulance are needed. For example: You have seen an accident Someone is seriously hurt You see a house on fire

Do...

Call 112 and explain the situation to the person on the line and try to explain exactly what and where it is happening. Give your name, address and telephone number to the person answering your call

Do not...

67 71

Call 112 to get general information (traffic, weather, etc.) Call 112 if it is not a real emergency Make telephone jokes Hang up if you dial 112 by mistake

Imagine you are on holidays in Europe. You have an accident, you see a fire or you spot a burglary - would you know who to call in case you need help? Now, all you need to remember is to dial 112!

When you call 112, an operator will answer and help you by sending the appropriate emergency service if needed (police, fire brigade or ambulance). Try to remain calm, give your name, address and telephone number.

79 49

50 50

Do not hang up if you called 112 by mistake. Just tell the operator everything is OK, otherwise assistance may be sent out for nothing while other people may truly need vital help. 112 is the only number that works for any emergency service anywhere in the European Union.

For further information visit ec.europa.eu/information_society/ activities/112/kids/home/ index_en.htm

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48 58 62

St Andrew’s Prep - The Lodge Nursery Eastbourne 01323 733203 www.standrewsprep.co.uk St Anthony’s Pre-school Hove 01273 772323 www.stanthonyspreschool.co.uk St Bede’s School Eastbourne 01323 734222 www.bedes.org St George’s Neighbourhood Nursery Brighton 01273 279448 www.stgeorges-nursery.co.uk Strawberry Hill Nursery Brighton 01273 561100 www.brighton-nurseries.co.uk Sunshine Day Nursery Brighton 01273 680280 Shoreham 01273 441912 www.sunshine-nursery.com Tavistock & Summerhill Nursery & Prep School Haywards Heath 01444 450256 www.tavistockandsummerhill.co.uk Teddy Bears Day Nursery Hove 01273 412100 www.teddybearsdaynursery.co.uk Toybox Pre-School Brighton 01273 698036 ext 4 www.womenscentre.org.uk Whiteway Pre-School Rottingdean 07740 797 858 www.whitewaypreschool.co.uk Windlesham School Brighton 01273 553645 www.windleshamschool.co.uk The Wishing Tree Children’s Nursery Brighton 01273 551515 www.wishingtreenursery.com Wonder Years Brighton 01273 553083 www.wonderyears.org.uk Young Friends Nursery Hove 01273 735100 www.youngfriends.co.uk Young Sussex Brighton 01273 736948 Hove 01273 777001 Shoreham 01273 440777 www.youngsussex.co.uk

Nutrition

The Blueberry Clinic Sussex 07939 295273 www.blueberryclinic.co.uk

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Optometrist

Barnard Optometrists Hove 01273 772318 www.barnard-optometrists.co.uk

Hove Osteopathic Clinic Hove 01273 208410 www.hoveosteopathicclinic.co.uk

139

Osteopathy

Out Of School Clubs & Holiday Care Artroom Brighton Hove 01273 240308 www.artroombrighton.co.uk Blackberry Farm Whitesmith, Nr Lewes 01825 872912 www.blackberry-farm.co.uk Brighton & Hove Montessori School Brighton 01273 702485 www.brighton-montessori.org.uk

5 103 63

Parent & Toddler Drop-In Carden Tots Brighton 01273 540779 www.cardentots.co.uk

Parental Support

Darling Buds of Play Sussex 07833 583047 www.darlingbudsofplay.co.uk Emily Burns Child Counsellor Brighton, Lewes 07905 207 476 www.childcounsellingbrighton.co.uk Speech House Ltd Sussex 01903 530681 www.speech-house.co.uk The Washable Nappy Company Sussex 01424 434580 www.thewashablenappy.co.uk

128 129 31 138

Find all this info at

igital www.abcmag.co.uk

Parties

Aqualife Swim School 114 Littlehampton 07821 119928 www.aqualifeswim.co.uk The Baby & Toddler Experience 7 Seaford, Lewes, Newhaven 07834 231971 www.thebabyandtoddlerexperience.co.uk BHASVIC 103 Hove 01273 859829 www.bhasvic.ac.uk Blackberry Farm 103 Whitesmith, Nr Lewes 01825 872912 www.blackberry-farm.co.uk Brighton Cakes 102 Sussex 07824 770151 www.brightoncakes.com Buddy’s Home Bakery 103 Sussex 01273 420283 www.buddyshomebakery.co.uk Clare Rose Mosaics 105 Brighton 01273 541589 www.clarerosedesigns.co.uk Dandelion Puppets 102 Sussex 01273 857482 www.dandelionpuppets.co.uk Evergreen Arts 107 Sussex 07813 403909 www.evergreenarts.co.uk Freedom Leisure 119 Sussex www.freedom-leisure.co.uk Funplex 108 Brighton 01273 690888 www.funplex.co.uk Gymboree Brighton 9 Brighton 01273 772900 www.gymboree-uk.com i-star Academy 23 Sussex 07843 666251 www.i-staracademy.wix.com/istaracademy Just 4 Kids Discos 103 Sussex 07522 899820 www.just4kidsdiscos.co.uk Kicks Dance 17 West Sussex 07722 826162 www.kicksdance.co.uk Little Dippers 111 Brighton 0844 482 0222 www.littledippers.co.uk Little Lions Soft Play 104 Sussex 07411 272025 www.littlelionssoftplay.co.uk Little Ninjas 8 Brighton, Lewes, Shoreham, Seaford 01323 873753 www.scrivenlittleninjas.co.uk Magic Moves 18 Brighton 01273 600126 www.magicmovesdance.com Mister Magnolia 91 Ditchling 01273 846638 www.mistermagnolia.co.uk Monkey Music 13 Lewes, Uckfield, Crowborough, & Haywards Heath 01825 760970 www.monkeymusic.co.uk/area/lewes-uckfieldcrowborough Music With Mike 104 Sussex 07528 004428 www.musicwithmike.co.uk Out Of Bounds 91 Rustington 01903 788588 www.out-of-bounds.co.uk Parties Of Their Own 101 Sussex 01273 733337 www.partiesoftheirown.com The Perfect Pamper 134 Sussex 01273 447841 www.theperfectpamper.com Pinkle’s Puppet Circus 105 Sussex 07904 208135 www.pinklespuppetcircus.com Portslade Sports Centre 102 Portslade 01273 411100 www.portsladesportscentre.co.uk Potty The Pirate 101 Sussex 01903 600844 www.pottythepirate.com Tomfoolery 103 Sussex 01903 814353 www.partytom.com Tumble Tots 9 Hove to Seaford 07727 137511 Worthing to Haywards Heath 07799 148286 www.tumbletots.com Washbrooks Farm 83 Hurstpierpoint 01273 832201 www.washbrooks.co.uk Wickers Gym Club 10 Lancing 01273 465554 www.wickers.btck.co.uk Worthing Leisure 107 Worthing 01903 502237 www.worthingleisure.co.uk

Personal Development The Flying Club Creative Coaching Sussex 07904 208135 www.theflyingclubcoaching.com

147

Personalised Jewellery Jwls Nationwide 07971 929146 www.jwls.co.uk

George White Photography Sussex 01273 775774 www.family-photography.co.uk Helen F Photography Sussex 07931 596822 www.helenfphotography.co.uk

Photography

Places To Visit

Amberley Museum & Heritage Centre 87 Amberley 01798 831370 www.amberleymuseum.co.uk Blackberry Farm 103 Whitesmith, Nr Lewes 01825 872912 www.blackberry-farm.co.uk Breeze up to the Downs 84 Brighton & Hove 01273 292480 www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/breezebuses The Brickwall Hotel 127 Sedlescombe, Battle 01424 870253 www.brickwallhotel.co.uk Fishers Adventure Farm Park 87 Wisborough Green 01403 700063 www.fishersfarmpark.co.uk Hever Castle 87 Near Edenbridge, Kent 01732 865224 www.hevercastle.co.uk Mid Hants Railway Watercress Line 87 New Alresford, Hampshire 01962 733810 www.watercressline.co.uk Out Of Bounds 91 Rustington 01903 788588 www.out-of-bounds.co.uk South East Christmas Fair 85 Fontwell Park Racecourse, Fontwell www.southeastchristmasfair.co.uk Stylish Christmas Fairs 85 Brighton 01903 366163 www.stylishchristmasfairs.co.uk Sussex Family Christmas Fair Extravaganza 85 Worthing www.sussexfamilychristmasfair.co.uk VegFestUK 84 Brighton & Hove www.brighton.vegfest.co.uk Visit Worthing 93 Worthing & Adur www.visitworthing.co.uk Washbrooks Farm 83 Hurstpierpoint 01273 832201 www.washbrooks.co.uk WWT Arundel Wetland Centre 83 Arundel 01903 881530 www.wwt.org.uk/visit-us/arundel

Play Centres

Fishers Adventure Farm Park Wisborough Green 01403 700063 www.fishersfarmpark.co.uk Funplex Brighton 01273 690888 www.funplex.co.uk

Play Therapy Darling Buds of Play Sussex 07833 583047 www.darlingbudsofplay.co.uk

Private Tuition Fleet Tutors Sussex 0845 644 5452 www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

Psychological Therapy Southwick Psychology Shoreham 07522 379564 www.southwickpsychology.co.uk

141

Dandelion Puppets Sussex 01273 857482 www.dandelionpuppets.co.uk

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Puppet Theatre Railways

Amberley Museum & Heritage Centre Amberley 01798 831370 www.amberleymuseum.co.uk Mid Hants Railway Watercress Line New Alresford, Hampshire 01962 733810 www.watercressline.co.uk

Restaurants

The Brickwall Hotel Sedlescombe, Battle 01424 870253 www.brickwallhotel.co.uk

127

BHASVIC Hove 01273 859829 www.bhasvic.ac.uk Samurai Martial Arts Centre Brighton & Newhaven 01273 570940 www.samuraibrighton.com

103

Room Hire

Santa

Amberley Museum & Heritage Centre Amberley 01798 831370 www.amberleymuseum.co.uk

Scar Reduction

117

Skin Confidence Brighton 07530 978856 www.skin-confidence.com

131

Klodhoppers Brighton & Hove 01273 711132 Haywards Heath 01444 452824 www.klodhoppers.com My Name Label Nationwide 0870 850 7897 www.mynamelabel.co.uk

140

Klodhoppers Brighton & Hove 01273 711132 Haywards Heath 01444 452824 www.klodhoppers.com

140

Purepotions Skincare Nationwide 01273 623123 www.purepotions.co.uk

133

Flippers N Fins Cranleigh, Surrey 01483 279879 www.flippersnfins.com

110

Little Lions Soft Play Sussex 07411 272025 www.littlelionssoftplay.co.uk

104

Dean Wilson LLP - Solicitors Brighton 01273 327241 www.deanwilson.co.uk

148

School Uniform

Shoes

Skincare

Snorkelling

108

Soft Play Hire

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Solicitors

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ABC Magazine - Sussex 159

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Spanish Classes Buenos Dias Sussex 01273 323431 www.buenosdias.co.uk

Theatres & Entertainment Venues

Stretch Mark Reduction

The Capitol Horsham 01403 750220 www.thecapitolhorsham.com The Hawth Crawley 01293 553636 www.hawth.co.uk Komedia Brighton 0845 293 8480 www.komedia.co.uk/brighton

Swimming Classes

North Park Farm Activity Toys Sussex 01273 833643 www.northparkfarm.co.uk

Speech Therapy Speech House Ltd Sussex 01903 530681 www.speech-house.co.uk

Skin Confidence Brighton 07530 978856 www.skin-confidence.com

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Aquababies Sussex 01273 833101 www.aquababies-uk.com Aqualife Swim School Littlehampton 07821 119928 www.aqualifeswim.co.uk Aquaswim Brighton 07702 075 091 www.aquaswim-brighton.co.uk Flippers & Fins Brighton, Clayton & Hurstpierpoint 01273 831382 www.flippersandfins.org Henry House Worthing 01903 232875 www.henryhouse.net Little Dippers Brighton 0844 482 0222 www.littledippers.co.uk the little swim school Brighton And Hove, Lewes 01273 207992 www.thelittleswimschool.co.uk MXT Swimming School West Sussex 01903 532765 www.mxtswimschool.com Seriously Fun Swimming School Sussex 0844 35 11 409 www.seriouslyfun.com Simply Swim Sussex Clayton, Small Dole 07986 111 820 www.simplyswimsussex.com Water Babies South Kent 01424 892 568 West Sussex 02392 231 007 East Sussex 01273 552 454 www.waterbabies.co.uk

115

Flippers N Fins Cranleigh, Surrey 01483 279879 www.flippersnfins.com

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Aqualife Swim School Littlehampton 07821 119928 www.aqualifeswim.co.uk Freedom Leisure Sussex www.freedom-leisure.co.uk Henry House Worthing 01903 232875 www.henryhouse.net Little Dippers Brighton 0844 482 0222 www.littledippers.co.uk Worthing Leisure Worthing 01903 502237 www.worthingleisure.co.uk

114

MummaBubba Jewellery UK Nationwide 08444 990045 www.mummabubba.co.uk

125

Swimming Equipment Swimming Pools

Teething Solutions

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Numbers that count!

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Toys

Underwater Photography

Flippers N Fins Cranleigh, Surrey 01483 279879 www.flippersnfins.com Henry House Worthing 01903 232875 www.henryhouse.net Little Dippers Brighton 0844 482 0222 www.littledippers.co.uk

110

University Of Brighton Brighton 01273 643386 www.brighton.ac.uk/teaching

149

Universities

110 111

Vegetarian Lifestyle VegFestUK Brighton & Hove www.brighton.vegfest.co.uk

Weight Loss

New Mums 6 Week Shape Up Nationwide www.newmums6weekshapeup.co.uk

123

The Flying Club Creative Coaching Sussex 07904 208135 www.theflyingclubcoaching.com New Mums 6 Week Shape Up Nationwide www.newmums6weekshapeup.co.uk Pure Aerobics Brighton Brighton & Hove 07786 038973 www.pureaerobicsbrighton.com Southwick Psychology Shoreham 07522 379564 www.southwickpsychology.co.uk

147

Brighton Cakes Sussex 07824 770151 www.brightoncakes.com Clare Rose Mosaics Brighton 01273 541589 www.clarerosedesigns.co.uk

102

Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Health

Workshops

123 125 141

110 111 107

...what Sussex parents really read!

Parent & Toddler Groups

In Sussex we are lucky to have a wide range of Parent & Toddler Groups - too many to mention in the magazine by name! Therefore, please find below contact numbers for the local councils who will be able to direct you to up-to-date information. East Sussex 0345 6080192 (local rate) West Sussex 01243 777807 Brighton & Hove 01273 293545 160

ABC Magazine - Sussex

% % % %

HELPLINES

Samaritans 0845 790 9090 Childline 0800 1111 NSPCC 0800 800 5000 NHS Direct Helpline 111 Department for Education 0370 000 2288 Gingerbread Helpline 0808 8020 925 La Leche League 0845 120 2918 Specialising in providing breastfeeding information (24 hour helpline) NCT Breastfeeding Line 0300 330 0771 NCT Pregnancy and Birth Line 0300 330 0772 BLISS 0500 618 140 National charity supporting parents with sick and premature babies. Monday - Friday 9am-9pm. Postnatal Depression Helpline 020 7386 0868 Support for mothers suffering from postnatal depression. RISE Domestic Violence Helpline 01273 622822 www.riseuk.org.uk National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000 247 AMAZE Helpline 01273 772289 Monday to Thursday 9.30am-12noon, plus Thursday 5.30-8pm. Information, advice and support to parents of children and young people with special needs in Brighton and Hove. National Meningitis Helpline 0808 8010 388 24 hour support helpline for parents needing info regarding meningitis. Relate 0300 100 1234 Relationship guidance, support and advice. The Informed Parent 01903 212969 Information on vaccination debate. www.informedparent.co.uk Lullyby Trust 0808 8026 868 Support for families affected by SIDS MENCAP 0808 808 1111 Learning disability helpline Asthma Helpline 0800 121 6244 Winston's Wish 0845 203 0405 Helping bereaved children rebuild their lives after a family death. Cry-sis 0845 122 8669 Support for families with excessively crying, sleepless and demanding babies.

FAMILY INFORMATION SERVICES Brighton & Hove 01273 293545 East Sussex (Kites) 0345 608 0192 West Sussex 01243 777807

SCHOOLS ADMISSIONS

Brighton & Hove 01273 293653 East Sussex 0345 608 0190 West Sussex 0845 075 1007 Pre-school Learning Alliance 020 7697 2500

CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAUX Brighton & Hove 0845 120 3710 Eastbourne 01323 417177 Lewes 01273 473082 West Sussex 0844 477 1171

RIGHTS & BENEFITS Job Centre Plus 0845 606 0234 St Lukes Advice Service 01273 549203 Brighton Unemployed Centre 01273 671213 Income Tax Helpline 0300 200 3200 Working/Child Tax Credit 0845 300 3900 Child Benefit Enquiries 0845 302 1444

OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS

Sussex Police 101 Frank About Drugs 0300 123 6600 Family Lives 0808 800 2222 Support and advice for anyone caring for children Civil Legal Services 0345 345 4345 Gas Emergency Service 0800 111 999 Southern Water Emergencies 0800 820 999

TRAVEL

Gatwick Airport 0844 892 0322 Brighton and Hove Buses 01273 886200 National Express 0871 781 8181 Stagecoach 0845 121 0190 National Rail Enquiries 0845 748 4950

Numbers that count!

The UK's first webcam nursery is now AN APP NURSERY! Download for free

Ofsted report May 2014: "Outstanding" Webcam facilities OFSTED inspected For children 0 - 8 years Full and part-time sessions available We are registered to provide free nursery education and care for children aged 2, 3 and 4 years old Extended hours: 7.30am - 7pm in Hove, 7.30am - 6pm in Worthing Nappies, snacks, hot meals and drinks included Classes include Spanish, dance and French High standard of care and education Warm, homely environment Lovely, safe outdoor garden External security cameras Caring, qualified staff With 235 downloads to date the cbabiesafe APP is the first of its kind in Sussex dedicated to supporting nursery/parent communication