Families East Kent Magazine November/December 2018

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East Kent

IN THIS ISSUE RECRUITING NOW Successful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside and without compromising family commitments or current career.

If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle

please call Vicki King 07501 433 922

Issue 6 November/December 2018 familiesonline.co.uk

Play or structured learning in the early years Christmas activities and events Indoor parties for winter familiesonline.co.uk Families East Kent

OUR CHILDREN’S FUTURE, A CHANGING WORLD. IT’S TIME TO

THINK

D I F F E R E N T LY

‘A PLACE THAT IS HUMAN IN ITS OUTLOOK, HEALTHY, KIND, AND VIGOROUS IN ITS QUEST FOR EXCELLENCE.’ GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE 2018

DISCOVER DOVER COLLEGE INDEPENDENT CO-EDUCATIONAL DAY AND BOARDING FOR AGE 3 - 18 TO FIND OUT MORE OR BOOK A VISIT, CONTACT: ADMISSIONS@DOVERCOLLEGE.ORG.UK dovercollege.org.uk

"

@DoverCollege

Co-educational, day & boarding school for 3-18 years in South East England

Looking for a School for September 2019?

- call today to book a tour

Registrations now being taken for Nursery, Reception and Year 3 Small class sizes offering individual attention Inspirational outdoor learning curriculum Focus on core academic skills Extended day for working parents Happy, creative, focussed environment Spacious modern and traditional facilities

T: 01843 572912 E: jsadmissions@slcuk.com College Road, Ramsgate, Kent CT11 7AE

www.slcuk.com

2 Families East Kent

familiesonline.co.uk

Editor’s welcome East Kent Issue 6 I Nov/Dec 2018

Editor Rebecca Carr editor@familieseastkent.co.uk 07789 882 467 Advertising Amanda Biggs amanda@familiespublishing.co.uk 07835 848066 What’s on guide Laura Vass assistant@familieseastkent.co.uk

Now that half term and Halloween is over, the kids (and big kids) can get really excited about Christmas! We have lots of festive fun to inspire you in this issue, from where to find Santa and holiday activities to edible presents you can make with the kids and all the best Pantomimes to see this season.

A huge welcome also to our new team member, Laura who has created our best what’s on guide yet. She has included all the must-do seasonal events and activies so keep hold of the issue and plan for the holidays.

Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and New Year. Plus, huge thanks to everyone who has featured in the magazine this year and to our wonderful schools, nurseries, children’s centres and leisure venues for distirbuting the magazine and making our first year in print a great one!

Rebecca

Next issue January/February 2019 Booking deadline 1 December 2018

Contents

Printed By Holbrooks Printers Ltd

4. News & views

Cover image: Shutterstock

5. Education news

Distributing 18,000 copies to: Ashford, Canterbury, Faversham, Whitstable, Herne Bay, Broadstairs, Margate, Ramsgate, Deal, Dover, Folkestone and all the areas in between.

6. Play or structured learning in early years

Published 6 times per year.

7. Indoor parties for winter 8. Christmas in Kent 11. Edible Christmas gift ideas 13. Family show and Pantos 14. What’s on in November & December

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Stay in touch Families east kent magazine © Families East Kent 2018 Families East Kent is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families East Kent are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families East Kent. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families East Kent ; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

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Don’t miss an issue! Download the latest magazine and our back catalogue at issuu www.issuu.com

Distributors Wanted Thanet, Dover, Folkestone, Canterbury, Deal & Ashford Are you looking for some extra income? Do you have a few hours spare over 1 - 2 days every two months within school hours?

Families East Kent Magazine is looking for distributors to deliver our magazine to local schools, nurseries and family attractions. If you live in the area, are reliable and trustworthy, have a car and would like to earn extra money, email editor@familieseastkent.co.uk for more information and routes available.

Starting January 2019

Good rates of pay

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News & views

A Young person’s Christmas wish

School Open Days

Christmas is a time where families across the UK take time away from their busy schedule to appreciate the value of family. For many, family is the pillar of strength that gets us through life’s toughest moments.

l Ashford Scorhd,oo 01233 625171 TN24 8PB - Tel:

East Hill, Ashf Open Day Day ber, Prep School Tues 20 Novem on 3 Dec, Senior School Open M & 21 ed W 6, e Tu

Dover Collesegceent, Dover, CT17 9RH - Tel: 01304 244 522

Unfortunately for many, there is no such comfort, because there is no such family.

At FSG, we exist to give children and young people supportive families to guide and support them through their toughest moments, so that they too, can thrive in life.

Effingham Cr vercollege.org.uk December. admissions@do ok a tour during November or bo to l ai Call or em

e St LawrencemsgCoatlle,egCT11 7AE - Tel: 01843 808080

There are many children and young people in the UK who are looking for foster families to provide loving and supportive homes. Are you that person they need?

College Road, Ra December. info@slcuk.com ok a tour during November or bo Call or email to

A career as a foster carer is incredibly rewarding for so many reasons, it’s an amazing career that involves changing lives for a living. Become a foster carer and join our community of individuals and families who change lives for a living.

For more information on how to get started, call for an informal chat on 0208 778 9669 or visit www.fosteringsupportgroup.com

New Ashford Picturehouse opens in December In December Picturehouse Cinemas sees the exciting opening of the new Ashford Picturehouse bringing a state-of-the-art sixscreen cinema, bar, cafe and restaurant to the community of Ashford.

A daily mile improves children’s health An initiative to get schoolchildren to walk or run a mile every day leads to significant improvements in their health, according to a study.

The Daily Mile scheme was originally the brainchild of a Scottish head teacher who started it in 2012.

Researchers at Stirling University compared the health of children at a primary school taking part in the scheme with those at a school that wasn’t participating.

The children wore accelerometers which recorded how much moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) they were undertaking every day, and for how long they were sedentary. Children who were doing the Daily Mile were significantly healthier than those who were not.

According to the Daily Mile Foundation, more than 3,600 schools worldwide have introduced the initiative, including about 1,200 in England, 770 in Scotland, 210 in Wales, 85 in Northern Ireland and more than 100 in the Republic of Ireland.

More information at www.stir.ac.uk and www.thedailymile.co.uk

4 Families East Kent

Continuing the Picturehouse legacy of bringing quality blockbusters, arthouse film and regular and diverse programming strands, Ashford Picture will also host a range of community-focused, price-adjusted events. These will include Big Scream, a club exclusively for parents and carers with babies under the age of one. Trips to the cinema don’t have to be a thing of the past for new parents as they can bring their babies in to the screenings. Other stands include Toddler Time, Kids’ Club, Autism-Friendly, Dementia-Friendly and Silver Screen.

By purchasing an Ashford Picturehouse Founder Membership, residents can own their place in history by having their name installed forever on the specially-designed Founder Members’ Wall! For more information visit www.picturehouses.com.

Beat Head Lice and Nits with the Bug Buster Kit If your children have had head lice before, then you may have been put off using expensive neuro-toxic pesticides on their heads. Bug Busting is a head louse detection and eradication method, which works by combining specially designed bevel-edged combs with your own family shampoo and conditioner.

The Bug Busting method detects and clears lice completely without special treatments, removes lice systematically, breaking the life-cycle in four sessions spaced over two weeks and eliminates unsightly eggshells comfortably.

The Bug Buster Kit is NHS approved and safe for babies, children, pregnant women, nursing mothers and those with allergies. It costs £6.40 plus P&P but is reusable – only one kit is required per family. To order a kit or for further information and advice, visit Community Hygiene Concern (CHC) at www.chc.org.

Talking to young children about war Remembrance Day on Sunday 11 November will be especially significant as it will mark 100 years since the original agreement to end fighting during the First World War in 1918, also known as Armistice Day. You can expect that there will be a great deal of media coverage given to this significant commemoration and your child may be prompted to ask you questions.

Discussing war with children can be quite difficult. Recognising this, CBeebies has produced a short animation, simply titled ‘Poppies’ to help convey the notion of remembrance in a way that resonates with a young audience.

It is a really beautiful piece to watch and would be a great way to introduce any discussion of Remembrance Day. The film can be viewed on the CBeebies website at www.bbc.co.uk/cbeebies

familiesonline.co.uk

Education News

Book a tour at St Lawrence College in Ramsgate for your 2019 school choices Add to your primary school choices for September 2019 and book a tour of St Lawrence College Junior School in Ramsgate to find out why more and more local parents are choosing St Lawrence College for their child’s education.

Compulsory relationship and sex education Relationship and health education will become compulsory for school children from September 2020, the Government has announced.

Under the proposals, all pupils will study compulsory health education and new reformed relationship education in primary school, as well as relationship and sex education in secondary school.

Teachers will talk to primary school pupils in an age appropriate way about the features of healthy friendships, family relationships and other relationships they are likely to encounter.

At secondary school, teachers will build on the foundation of relationships education in primary school and, at the appropriate time, extend teaching to include intimate relationships as well.

At both primary and secondary, pupils will learn about staying safe online and how to use technology safely, responsibly and respectfully.

Classes will also cover physical health, such as the importance of exercise and healthy eating, as well as the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and how it contributes towards the prevention of health problems.

More information can be found under Consultations at www.gov.uk/government/ publications

Odd socks day for Anti-Bullying Week Anti-Bullying Week runs from 12 to 16 November 2018 and the theme this year is choosing respect over bullying.

The aim of the week is to support schools to help children understand the definition of respect, that bullying is a behavioural choice, that we can respectfully disagree with each other i.e. we don’t have to be best friends or always agree with each other but we do have to show each other respect and that we all need to choose to respect each other, both face to face and online.

Students are being encouraged to wear odd socks to school on Monday 12 November to show their support and raise money for a good cause.

To get involved, visit www.antibullyingalliance.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Head of the Junior School, Ellen Rowe, says: “Children are happiest when their school work excites them, when they are recognised for their achievements and supported if needed, when they feel safe, and when they have time to play. At St Lawrence College Junior School we take great care to support each child, nurturing them to reach their potential in all aspects of school life.

With spacious grounds, wonderful resources and a dedicated staff team we leave no stone unturned to find out what motivates your child, offering them an exceptional range of lessons and activities. I do hope that you will come and visit us.”

To find out more and arrange a visit, email jsadmissions@slcuk.com or call 01843 572912.

Visit www.slcuk.com

New reception test criticised Children who start Reception in September 2020 will be the first group to take the new Reception test, a baseline measure to track pupils’ progress during primary school. It is proposed that it will take place during the first 6 weeks of the autumn term.

Guidelines recently released by the governments say the new reception baseline assessment will be short (about 20 minutes), interactive and practical. It will cover language and communication, early mathematics and social and behavioural skills.

However, the proposed test has been criticised in a report written by an expert panel and published by the British Education Research Association. The report’s authors say that the assessment is highly likely to produce unreliable and invalid results, as it fails to recognise that young children develop at different paces and doesn’t adjust for key factors, such as differences in ages and family background. Add to this the fact that teachers and practitioners are likely to become increasingly pressured to ‘teach to the test’, and it is difficult to see how baseline results will have any real value.

More info at www.bera.ac.uk

Small animal centre gets big welcome down on the farm Homewood School Farm’s new small animal care education centre, built with National Lottery funding, welcomed in its first visitors in September after an official opening ceremony.

A group of youngsters and their teachers from the neighbouring Homewood Farm Nursery came to meet the farm’s newest residents - chickens, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas and tortoises – and had a great time getting to know them, assisted by members of Homewood’s Young Farmers Club.

The new centre provides accommodation for a range of small animals, together with a substantial additional classroom space and an outdoor pen for animal handling lessons with larger animals, such as calves and sheep. Whilst the construction of the centre has been made possible by an Awards for All grant, the animal housing has been funded by Town and Country Cleaners Ltd, a service supplier to Homewood.

Homewood Farm is one of a very small number of working school farms in the UK. It is used by the school for animal care lessons and other class visits, which not only link to environmental and conservation issues but also incorporate Science, Geography, English and Maths subjects. The farm holds community open days, runs regular masterclasses and a summer school for local primary pupils, Rainbow and Brownie groups, as well as the nearby Kench Hill Charity, which helps reconnect inner city children with rural life.

Families East Kent 5

Play or structured learning in the early years?

By Maxine Henderson

In England, the current Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum stipulates a 50/50 balance between child-centred, play-based learning and adult-led learning.

Over the years there have been individuals who question the system and look to introduce new ideas. For example Liz Truss, a past Education and Childcare Minister, championed the introduction of a French-style ‘structured learning’ approach, with a graduate-led workforce responsible for larger groups of children, and a reduced child-to-carer ratio. Whilst the benefits of a more highly qualified workforce are indisputable, there are other considerations. If teachers are responsible for larger groups then opportunities for vital play-based learning are reduced.

Whilst the ‘structured learning’ model is hailed for its effectiveness in socialising children, teaching them manners, and creating a calm, organised atmosphere, it is not an environment in which young children learn best. And it definitely doesn’t encourage them to be inquisitive, selfmotivated learners.

Children need to practise negotiating with each other and experience problem solving situations, without the direct supervision of an adult. If they are unable to practise these skills in free play, they become too reliant on adults to both intervene for them in social situations and to motivate and inspire them to learn.

A great example of the benefits of playbased learning happened in one of our nursery settings recently. I observed the

children carrying large construction blocks, lengths of fabric, pegs and sticky tape out of the building and realised they were busy working together to construct a range of interestingly shaped homes in the garden, entirely from their own imaginations.

Some children were making signs to indicate who lived where; others were adding connecting tunnels and others still were creating places for everyone to sit and a welcoming atmosphere. It wasn’t all smooth sailing. The children often disagreed about how to construct the dwellings and tempers flared when some children “borrowed” things from one den to improve their own, but the whole process was fascinating to observe. Our carers were on hand to support the children – making sure they were safe and allowing them to negotiate between themselves.

When necessary, they offered suggestions to help the children make decisions, but they provided choices rather than answers. They also asked open questions throughout the process such as: How many pegs have you used? How is this staying up? What does your sign say?

The learning that took place that afternoon was incredible – the children were selfmotivated, interested in the task and invested in a positive outcome. In adultled learning, we often meet resistance, as a child does not want to complete the task in the way that we expect. However, this leads to other teaching opportunities and is equally as important as playbased learning. The two work well in tandem, giving the children opportunities to develop core skills, find their own strengths and become well-rounded individuals. Currently observations are made about a child’s development while they play, helping carers plan structured learning activities relevant to that child’s development.

These observations include the individual interests, abilities and levels of assistance required by each child. This makes it possible to organise interesting, achievable but challenging adult-led activities for each child, taking account of their preferred learning style and developmental level.

FamiliesEast EastKent Kent 6 Families

During the den-building activity, carers were able to identify which children: • • • • •

confidently led the action preferred to watch were interested in creating the tents and dens, disappeared when all the building and mending was done wanted to play in the dens when they were completed, delegating characters to each other and adding furniture to create narratives for their games.

A mixture of adult-led and play-based learning is important for the development of every child. The individual child needs to learn structure and rules, and participate as part of group but they also need time to explore their own interests, likes and dislikes and see where they fit into the whole.

When considering the introduction of new ways of learning for children, it’s important to consider the impact this can have on the individual development of a child, as well as the changes that will need to be made to group learning. For example, increasing the number of children each worker has in their care makes it more difficult for detailed observations to be made about each child and to organise adult-led activities which are appropriate for both the development of individual children and the group. Inevitably, this forces settings to move to a classroom-style environment in which, sadly, children lose vital free-play learning and development opportunities.

Maxine Henderson is a Childcare Expert at Tinies Childcare, a leading childcare specialist with over 30 years’ experience helping families, nurseries and other childcare settings find the right childcare professionals to suit their needs.

Visit www.tinies.com for more information.

familiesonline.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Indoor parties for winter The skies might be dull and gloomy but that doesn’t mean your child should miss out on a fabulous birthday party! However, it is probably best to head indoors to avoid a washout, freezing cold kids or limited daylight. Here are some ideas from Families Editors and our readers for indoor parties during the winter months.

Rock Climbing

Rather than you climbing them, let the party goers climb up all the walls they want at a rock climbing centre. You can usually find one fairly close, and it’s a perfect party place for energetic kids. They offer a variety of climbing structures to choose from, so they’re great for children of all ages. If everyone’s new to the sport, then go for the party package, which typically includes instructions and all the gear to keep them vertical for hours.

Go to the Theatre

There are always plenty of holiday plays and puppet show performances during the winter season. Take the party goers out to a matinee, then afterwards, head out for a pizza. Or do the pizza before an evening performance. Make invitations look like a playbill and include autograph books with pens for goody bags – they may come in handy after the show!

Poolside Fun

Invite kids to shed their coats, put on their swimsuits, and dive right into some summer-style fun at a wintertime pool party. Most local leisure centres and fitness centres offer great party packages and many now have water flumes which add to the excitement. This option is guaranteed to keep active youngsters fully occupied and catered for in a warm environment.

Cooking up a Storm

Face Painting

Face painting is a great addition to any party and is a great timefiller. The best thing about it is its broad appeal - tots as young as 2 can join in the fun whilst older children will love using the paints on each other, to get into a character or to complement a fancy dress outfit. You can also lay out a few craft tables at which they can be creative. If you don’t have all the kit or the requisite skill then there are plenty of local face paint party entertainers available at reasonable rates.

Entertainers

We’re not all cut out to be perfect party hostesses, so if the thought of trying to entertain a bunch of excitable little people fills you with trepidation, an entertainer could be just what you need. When you consider what you’ll spend on add-ons to try and keep the party goers entertained, they usually work out to be fairly cost-effective.

Kids of all ages will enjoy the mess, the creativity and the tasting involved when put in charge of preparing their own party food. If you are not up for this culinary challenge you will find there are now plenty of very good local providers of cooking parties for kids.

Hit the Ice

Take advantage of all the pop up ice rinks that appear in the winter or any permanent indoor rinks that are within striking distance of your home. You may be able to hire one of the teachers at the rink or from a skating club to teach beginners the basics and pros some new tricks. These parties are most appropriate for children who have mastered skating alone. There’s likely to be a minimum age below which children cannot skate unaccompanied by an adult, so you may need to be on the ice with your group of children. Ideally you need to be fairly competent on the ice yourself or bring other adults along to help out, as you may be required to support the kids that are less confident. Make sure you give parents appropriate instructions about how to dress their children for the party too.

Laser Action

Laser Tag parties are ideal for kids to let loose and enjoy actionpacked fun. Your local centre will usually offer packages including your group’s own area overseen by a marshall.

Disco Time

The perfect venue this festive season for

C H R I S T M A S PA R T I E S PACKAG E I N CLU D E S :

 Wonderful 3 course festive menu (with choices)  Spacious ballroom with spectacular lighting for the dancefloor!  Disco  Free parking  Great location on A256

Disco parties are great for older children and can include lots of fun and energetic party games. Keep the furniture from being trampled on by clearing the room first. Alternatively, find a local hall and get in mobile disco with DJ and sit back and watch them practice their moves.

£28.50 P ER P ER S ON

Bounce to a Trampoline Park

Trampolining has come a long way. Trampoline parks can be massive with literally acres and acres of trampolines, all interconnected so the kids can bounce all over the place. There are walls they can bounce off, giant foam pits they can dive in to, slam dunk basketball with launch pads and more. Most of them have viewing or ‘relaxing’ areas and cafes so you can keep an eye on the action.

familiesonline.co.uk

Tel:

01304 613022

W W W. B AY P O I N T S P O R T S C L U B . C O .U K

enquiries@baypointsportsclub.co.uk Ramsgate Road, Sandwich, Kent CT13 9QL

Email:

Families East Kent 7

It’s beginning to look at lot like

Christmas

With so many fantastic events happening locally during the festive season, it is difficult to choose which to go to! Here is our guide to all things Christmas including where to find Santa, Christmas markets and fairs, Pantomimes and family shows, ice skating and much more.

Mother Christmas, receive a gift and take home a souvenir photograph. Ticket price also includes entrance to the Family Park and indoor soft play area. £18 per child, including up to 2 adults. £2 per additional adult.

Children under 1 £6. Selected dates.

Where is Santa?

17 November – 24 December (selected dates) Tea/Breakfast with Santa Wyevale Garden Centres in Ashford, Canterbury and Ramsgate Enjoy a delicious, freshlyprepared meal, decorate your own biscuit, receive a gift and meet Santa himself. Book online in advance. £10.95 per child and adults from £5.

24 November – 23 December (weekends only) Meet Santa and his Elves Howletts Wild Animal Park, Canterbury CT4 5EL Treat your little ones to some extra Christmas magic on your visit to the park, visiting Santa and his elves and receiving a Christmas gift. Entry to the grotto is £10 per child or £8 for members. For a small additional charge, you can also purchase a souvenir photo.

24 & 25 November, 1, 2 & 8 - 23 December Christmas Grotto Penshurst Place, Penshurst TN11 8DG Take a stroll along the decorated Lime Walk and step into the Toy Workshop, where children will have the opportunity to create some festive crafts and have 8 Families East Kent

their faces painted. Leaving the workshop, visitors are able to get a sneak peek at toy prototypes and check the naughty and nice lists, before being granted exclusive access to Father Christmas’ secret Penshurst office, where the man himself will welcome you with a gift and candy cane. £14.50 per child, including admission for up to two accompanying adults.

24 November - 16 December (weekends only), 19-24 December Santa Specials Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway, New Romney TN28 8PL The miniature railway offers a range of experiences to meet Santa. All include train travel and a visit to Santa in his grotto at Dungeness. A truly special Santa experience and a must for all train-loving tots! See website for details of the different experiences. From £20.

1 – 23 December Father Christmas at The Hop Farm The Hop Farm, Paddock Wood, Tonbridge TN12 6PY You will need to book in advance for this popular Grotto experience. Children will have the opportunity to write and post letters to Father Christmas, hear stories read by

1 - 24 December Santa’s Grotto Whitefriars, Canterbury, CT1 2TF Booking is required. Book online.

20-22 December (1–16 Dec weekends only) Santa Specials Spa Valley Railway, Elridge TN3 9LE Visitors to the Spa Valley railway on selected dates in December can meet Santa on board the train, where children will receive a special gift. £16 adults, £14 children and £4.50 under 2s.

1,2, 8,9, 15,16 & 21-22 December Santa Specials Crampton Tower Museum, Broadstairs CT10 2AB Book in at the Museum Kiosk from 12.30pm on arrival to visit Father Christmas. As part of your visit, you will receive a carefully chosen gift and ride on the miniature train (weather permitting). Admission £7 per child, parents go free.

1&2, 8&9, 15-24 December Santa’s Grotto Wildwood, Herne Common, Herne Bay, Kent, CT6 7LQ Santa will be back at Wildwood on selected dates in December.

Children will be entertained by his magical elves, visit the reindeer and receive a

quality soft toy and souvenir photograph, as well as meeting Santa himself. Bookings can be made in advance by contacting the Wildwood Trust. £12 per child and usual entry fees apply.

1,2, 8,9, 15,16 & 21-24 December Santa Specials Kent & East Sussex Railway, Tenterden TN30 6HE On the 1 hour 10 minute journey, your child will meet Santa and his elf helpers. All children will receive an age appropriate gift and all travellers will be provided with complimentary refreshments. Children under 18 months travel free and receive a free gift. Prices start at £19.

1,2, 8,9, 15,16 & 20-24 December Meet Santa at Kent Life Kent Life, Maidstone ME14 3AU Jump on board the Land Train, driven by the head elf, to hear Christmas Tales, before visiting Santa in his magical grotto and receiving a special gift. Santa experiences should be booked in advance. Prices include admission to Kent Life and a gift: Child (1-15) £12.95, Child under 1 £7.95. Adults must also have a valid entrance ticket.

8, 9, 15, 16, 20, 21, 22 & 23 December Toy Workshop & Santa Drop In Hever Castle & Gardens Edenbridge TN8 7NG Kids will have the opportunity to visit him on a first come first served basis and will receive an age-appropriate gift. See website for full terms and conditions for this event.

familiesonline.co.uk

Christmas Fairs and Markets

Ice Skating November – December The Harbour Garden Café, Whitstable Harbour, CT5 1AB The Harbour Garden café welcomes you to celebrate the festive season with them.

Skate on the outdoor rink, enjoy a Christmas movie or grab a festive treat. Contact the café directly for specific dates and details.

15 November – 6 January Bluewater Greenhithe, DA9 9ST Take a trip to the spectacular undercover outdoor ice rink, located outside by the beautiful lakes at The Village, beneath a clear roof so you can skate rain or shine! Perfect for all the family to enjoy, there are seal-shaped skating aids for kids, bob skates for those who need to be steady on the ice and lessons for anyone hoping to whirl, glide, skate and slide around the huge sparkling Christmas tree. Prices start from £9 for children, £10 for juniors (13-16 years), £11 for adults and £34 for a family of 4.

30 November – 31 December Ice Rink at Winter Wonderland The Friars, Aylesford ME20 7BY Tickets can be bought on the day or in advance for this outdoor rink. Part of the Maidstone Panto Winter Wonderland celebrations.

25 November - 24 December (weekends only) Christmas Market and Ice Rink Dover Cruise Terminal Dover, CT17 9DQ A range of stalls offering Christmas gifts for everyone.

There’s also the chance to meet Santa and enjoy the enormous ice rink.

1 December – 2 January Ice Skating at Eastwell Manor Ashford TN25 4HR For the first time, Eastwell Manor is hosting an outdoor skating rink - perfect for some traditional festive fun! Get in the spirit of Christmas with Santa’s reindeer, mulled wine and mince pies, plus the chance to do some shopping from the Christmas boutique. An hour skating and skate hire is £14.50 for adults and £9.50 for under 12s. familiesonline.co.uk

15 November Wealden Times Midwinter Fair The Hop Farm, Paddock Wood TN12 6PY There is no lovelier way to shop for original, handmade and desirable Christmas gifts than by browsing amongst the seven heated, joined-up marquees. As well as presents for the whole family, you’ll find everything else you need to create a perfect Christmas. When it’s time for a rest, the Street Food Cafe will be serving delicious snacks and meals from vintage vans, whilst tea and cake will be available in our Cafe Bakery.

16 November – 24 December Whitefriars Christmas Market Whitefriars, Canterbury The continental Christmas market will return to Canterbury this Christmas with more than 70 cabins throughout Whitefriars. Shop for unique Christmas gifts, decorations and food specialities as you savour the aroma of barbecued bratwurst and mulled wine.

24 November Pilgrims Hospice – Christmas Retail Fair Westgate Hall, Canterbury CT1 2BT Pilgrims Retail team and volunteers welcome you to an amazing Christmas Fair, filled with a brilliant range of festive goodies for you to purchase. There will also be activities for the children, festive refreshments and a chance to meet Santa! Every little purchase you make will help to support your local hospice care in east Kent.

24-25 November The Friars Christmas Fayre The Friars, Aylesford ME20 7BX Go along for a fun filled day.

There will be an ice rink and land train back, plus a chance to buy those extra Christmas presents to get you in the Christmas mood.

24 November – 16 December (weekends only) Christmas Market & Grotto Leeds Castle, Maidstone ME17 1PL Visit the Christmas Market on the Cedar Lawn to discover an exciting selection of seasonal gifts, toys, festive decorations and specialist food and drink.

With traditional fun fair rides, birds of prey and live music everyone will be entertained.

There is also a chance to meet Father Christmas’ reindeer in their stable before seeking out the man himself in his magical

grotto. Visits to the market are included in castle entrance.

Father Christmas visits must be booked in advance for £15 per child.

24, 25 & 30 November, 1,2, 7-9 December Rochester Christmas Market Rochester Castle Gardens, ME1 1 SW Set in the historic and picturesque Rochester Castle gardens, overlooked

by Rochester’s 12th Century Norman Keep, market visitors will enjoy a selection of festive foods including mulled wine, hot chocolate with Baileys and roasted chestnuts as they browse stalls for unique gift ideas and unusual stocking fillers.

25 November, 9 &16 December Faversham Christmas Markets Faversham Historic Market Place The Faversham Christmas Markets have become a popular yearly event and are the place to pick up gorgeous, locally-made gifts and produce, enjoy some festive music and sip a glass or two of mulled wine. The historic Market Place with it’s beautiful Guildhall is packed full of stalls selling handmade gifts, toys, clothes, jewellery, crafts and pottery, local produce, food and drink. With brass bands, music and carol singing and donkeys, there is something for everyone.

1 December Christmas Craft Fair The Alexander Centre, Faversham ME13 8NZ Locally-made crafted gifts and treats available to purchase to get ahead on your Christmas shopping!

experience! Each 20 minute session includes Meet and Greet Santa, Christmas Stories and Christmas Arts and Crafts.

Combined with a Christmas Fayre with lovely gifts, decorations and all you need to get you ready for festive season.

2 December Christmas at the Castle Whitstable Castle and Gardens, Whitstable CT5 2BW A traditional Christmas fair with stalls inside and outside, and a magical Christmas grotto. The Orangery Tearooms will also be serving light lunches, mulled wine and mince pies. 11am – 4pm. Free entry.

9 December Christmas Food Festival Whitstable Castle and Gardens, Whitstable CT5 2BW The Castle will be filled with an abundance of local Kentish produce to buy and sample plus a few outdoor activities, including Santa’s grotto. The Orangery Tearooms will also be serving light lunches, mulled wine and mince pies. 11am – 4pm. Free entry.

15 December Christmas Market Lydden Village Hall, Lydden CT15 7EX Lydden’s very first Christmas market, with special guest Father Christmas. In addition to stalls selling delicious local produce, there will be a special Christmas raffle and gifts for the children.

1 December Christmas Fayre and Meet & Greet Santa St Mark’s Church Hall, Ramsgate CT12 6TU An alternative to a Christmas Grotto - an interactive elf Families East Kent 9

Christmas Lights Switch On 16 November Christmas Lights Switch-On Old High Street, Folkestone This year author of My Name is Leon, Kit de Waal, will be counting down to the big switch-on and launching Folkestone Book Festival 2018.

To get you in the festive spirit, local choirs will be bringing the streets to life with song, local creative businesses will be stunning crowds with their Christmas window displays.

16 November Christmas Light Switch On Whitefriars, Canterbury, CT1 2TF 16 November Lights Switch On Westwood Cross, Broadstairs CT10 2BF Westwood Cross once again are holding their annual spectacular Christmas Lights Switch-On event with live music, entertainment and a celebrity to turn on the new lights.

24 November Night Food Market & Lights Faversham The evening starts at 5pm with the switch-on of the lights

by Father Christmas. At 6pm, the night market starts, with plenty of delicious local food and drinks to choose from and entertainment galore. Don’t forget to wrap up warm so you can enjoy the festivities all evening in comfort!

25 November Lights Switch-On Ramsgate High Street, King Street and Queen Street Ramsgate Christmas Fair combines with Ramsgate Handmade and Vintage Fair 11am-5pm to bring Christmas treats, gifts and decorations, all made locally.

1 December Lantern-Lit Parade & Lights Switch-On, Sandwich Festive stalls, music, street entertainment and lots of food and drink. There will be a lantern-lit parade around the town in early evening and the Grand Christmas lights switch on at 7pm. Stalls will be on the Guildhall Forecourt and inside the Guildhall from 10am. The outdoor programme starts at 3.00pm with a funfair on the Guildhall car park. Lantern making workshops will be 3, 10 and 17 November in St Mary’s Arts Centre for those who wish to join in the parade.

2 December Christmas Light Switch On Station Road, Westgate-on-Sea The Westgate Christmas light committee are pleased to be holding Westgate’s Christmas switch on again this year, including large street market, fun fair, live entertainment, Santa’s grotto and parade.

6 December Christmas Lights Cliftonville Cliftonville Partnership present their Christmas ‘Switch On’ of Decorative Christmas Tree Lights with everyone welcome.

4.45-6.30pm.

Revel in traditional tales and celebrate the festive season at Hever Castle This year, Hever Castle will be celebrating Traditional Christmas Tales as part of its annual festive event.

Rooms of the Castle will be beautifully decorated and themed around stories including the Nutcracker, The Tailor of Gloucester and ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas with twinkling lights and welcoming log fires.

Revel in the Christmas spirit at Hever Castle Wednesdays to Sundays from 24 November and daily from 10 to 24 December. Each weekend and daily from selected dates ride the carousel and enjoy vintage fairground stalls (£1 per go), roast chestnuts for sale and the chance to meet characters along the trail including Bob Cratchit and Scrooge and pose for a picture with a husky (suggested £2 donation towards Siberian Husky Welfare Association).

Complete your visit with relaxed Christmas shopping in the beautifully decorated Hever Castle shops packed with fabulous festive gift ideas and stocking fillers to delight all ages and tastes. Follow this up with tempting treats in the restaurants where our chefs will be offering delicious seasonal food, mince pies and drinks.

For further information visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

10 Families East Kent

Christmas Activities and Events 11 November – 24 December Christmas Grotto and Experience The Reindeer Centre, Capralama Farm, Bethersden TN26 3EQ A full festive day out with the family is in store at the Reindeer Centre. Visit Father Christmas in his festive cabin, where every child will receive a gift. You can also stroll through the animated scenes in the 150ft Grotto, before visiting the undercover animal barn to feed the reindeer and meet the other animals. The Centre also has three children’s play areas including the hay bale ball pit, the pirate ship in the sand and an area of artificial snow. Prices range from £10.

24 & 25 November Christmas on the home front – WWII experience Kent Life, Maidstone ME14 3AU Step back into the festive season in the 1940s, taking in the sights, sounds and smells of ‘Christmas on the Home Front’.

Visitors will have the opportunity to attend ‘make do and mend’ lessons, watch drill displays by the Home Guard, and visit shops from the era and a rehabilitation centre for injured RAF pilots. All the usual attractions will also be available. All included in the usual admission fee.

24 November – 1 January Once Upon A Time At Christmas Leeds Castle Maidstone ME17 1PL Over the Christmas period, Paddington and classic festive stories will be brought to life through illustrations in the Castle rooms. Featuring ‘Sleeping Beauty’, ‘A Christmas Carol’, ‘The Snow Queen’ and many others. Visitors who go on the 2, 9 or 16 December will also have the opportunity to join the Castle storyteller to hear ‘Paddington and the Christmas Surprise’ for a small additional cost.

24 November – 9 December (Wed-Sun) 10 December – 24 December (daily) Christmas at Hever Castle Hever Castle & Gardens Edenbridge TN8 7NG See below for full details.

Entrance to the castle and gardens is £17.25 for adults and £9.75 for children. Under 5s go free.

30 November – 30 December Christmas at Bedgebury Bedgebury Pinetum, Goudhurst TN17 2SJ Greeted by the sights and sounds of Christmas, experience Bedgebury in a whole new light as you wander beneath unique canopies drenched in seasonal colour. Inspired by the land-scape itself, it is a festive adventure in a world of trees on the illuminated winter trail. Gather to toast your own marshmallows at one of the fire pits, the little ones can ride the vintage Carousel or other traditional rides while you treat yourself to some scrummy seasonal fare. Amid all the festive fun, don’t forget to glimpse Father Christmas and his elf along the way.

30 November – 31 December Kent’s Winter Wonderland The Friars, Aylesford ME20 7BY In Association with Maidstone Panto, Kent’s very own ‘Winter Wonderland’ will be opening at the Aylesford Friars. There will be fun fair rides, a Christmas market, a full-size ice rink and lots of festive food to be enjoyed.

Entry to Winter Wonderland is free. Parking is guaranteed for Panto ticket holders.

1 December WhitSparkle Christmas Celebration Whitstable A day of Christmas activities spread throughout the town.

Details will be available closer to the time on the WhitSparkle facebook page.

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Edible

Christmas Gift Ideas

Christmas gifts don’t have to be expensive and you can have lots of fun making foodie gifts for your friends and family. Here are a few quick, easy and delicious ideas for you to make with your children.

Cheese Palmiers These quick and easy cheesy biscuits taste delicious and are great as a gift if you pop them in a little box.

Snowballs

Christmas cookies in a jar

You will need:

Everyone loves chocolate and these little snowball shaped truffles are great as a Christmas themed treat.

This is a lovely gift as the jar can be used again and it’s full of yummy, Christmassy biscuits too.

• •

You will need:

You will need:

• • • • •

• • • • • • • • • •

2 tbsp double cream 200g good white chocolate, chopped Half tsp vanilla extract 2 tbsp desiccated coconut Mini cake cases

Method: Put the chocolate pieces in a pudding basin and set it over a pan of hot water, with the double cream. Bring to a simmer and then turn the heat down low. You’ll need to supervise your child at this stage, as steam can burn. Stir with a wooden spoon until the chocolate has melted into the cream. Add the vanilla, take off the heat and chill for one hour.

It should then be firm but still loose enough to work with.

With a teaspoon, each take a small amount of the chocolate paste and roll it in a ball between your palms. Then roll it in the coconut and you have little snowball shaped truffles. Place each completed one inside a mini cake case.

Pop some inside a jam jar to give as a gift and add little playful touches such as tiny robins and Christmas trees that you use as cake decorations. familiesonline.co.uk

250g soft butter or margarine 140g caster sugar 1 egg 2 tsp vanilla extract 300g plain flour Quarter tsp ground cinnamon Tiny pinch of ground star anise Quarter tsp nutmeg Large Kilner jar Ribbon and decorations

Packet of ready made puff pastry 100g cheese of your choice – gruyere or cheddar, or experiment with the different colours of white Cheshire, Red Leicester and yellow Cheddar.

Method: Place the pastry flat on a floured baking tray.

Grate the cheese on the large side of the grate so it’s not too fine, then help your child scatter it evenly across the pastry.

Next, get your child to roll the pastry up from each end, so that the rolls meet in the middle.

Press it all down lightly.

To decorate;

With a knife that’s not too sharp, your child can cut slices through the pastry, about 0.5 cm wide. You’ll get quite a few out of the pastry.

• • •

Place each on its side on a baking tray, leaving plenty of room as they will expand as they cook.

Icing sugar Water Lemon juice

Method: Cream together the butter and sugar, then add the yolk from the egg and the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour and keep mixing until it forms a ball of dough. Kids can do this with their hands.

Next, roll the dough out of a floured surface and use a variety of Christmas cookie cutters to make the shapes – stars, diamonds and hearts are all good. Bake for 12-15 minutes (gas 4, 190 C 375 F).

Place in a hot oven (200 C, 400 F Gas 6) for 10-12 minutes until golden.

Leave to cool. To turn these into a lovely gift, take a box from an old packet of biscuits or crackers, cut off the top and cover the box with Christmas paper. Place the Palmiers inside laid one on top of each other at an angle. Finally, cover the top with clear plastic or cling film, then add a pretty ribbon or bow on top.

Families East Kent 11

1 – 24 December Whirli’s Christmas Treat Hunt!

Whirligig Canterbury, CT1 2HX Go down to Whirligig Canterbury any day in December and pick up a hunting form. Just spot 3 of the 5 Christmas Whirli-Robot’s hidden around the store and hand your completed form in to a member of the team to get a yummy Christmas treat!

1 & 2 December Christmas Opening weekend Ightham Mote, Sevenoaks TN15 0NT Ightham Mote hosts their annual Christmas mini-market and unveils the house dressed for Christmas. In addition to stalls selling local produce, there will be craft activities and a trail for the children, as well as festive music. Between 11am and 2.30pm, Father Christmas will be handing out gifts to the children. Entrance fee includes access to the market. Additional charges will apply for some activities.

1 – 16 December (weekends only) WWII Christmas Dover Castle, CT16 1HU Journey back to discover how the festive season was celebrated during war time: listen to tales of Christmas at the Castle Garrison in the recreated officers’ mess; watch impressive birds in flight in the Christmas falconry show; bake delicious Christmas treats on the ration and get in the festive spirit by dancing the lindy hop. All included in castle entrance fee.

1 – 23 December A Truly Magical Christmas Rare Breeds Centre, Ashford TN26 3RJ To mark this year’s festive season the Rare Breeds Centre is hosting Santa and his elves, as well as their very own pantomime. The elves will welcome you into their magical Grotto and, along with Santa and ‘The Naughty Snowman’, you will experience forty minutes of fun and entertainment, at the end of which each child will meet Santa and receive a special Christmas gift. ‘Wiley Wolf Productions’ are performing Aladdin the pantomime, with all the usual jokes with lots of audience participation.

Performances are at 12 noon and 2 pm.

2 & 3 December Rochester Dickensian Christmas Festival Rochester High Street, Castle and Cathedral Join in this year’s popular Dickensian Christmas Festival, where the works and the times of the world renowned Charles Dickens are celebrated, in Rochester – his home for many years and inspiration for some of his books. Uncover a feast of Victorian delights with familiar fictional characters, parades, carols, stalls, reindeer and lots of festive shopping. All this with a guaranteed snowfall, framed by Rochester’s fairy tale cathedral and castle.

8 & 9 December Wartime Christmas Weekend Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham ME7 1UR Special displays and living history demonstrations will

capture the ambiance of Christmas celebrations of the 1940s.

9 December Farm Nativity Kent Life, Maidstone ME14 3AU Come and experience the living Nativity with the animals on the farm. Maidstone Family Church have worked together with Kent Life to take you on a journey across the grounds to discover the Nativity story scenes.

Children are encouraged to dress up to join in the storytelling. The Nativity starts at 3pm and is included in the general admission cost.

15 & 16 December Magical Medieval Christmas Canterbury Tales Visitor Attraction, Canterbury CT1 2TG Father Christmas has been transported back in time to the Middle Ages and it’s up to you to bring him back to 2018 in time for Christmas! The Canterbury Tales is hosting festive fun in a special time travelling adventure, which will definitely get you all in the Christmas spirit. The journey will end with a visit to Father Christmas’ grotto and a gift from the man himself. The experience lasts around 45 minutes and pre-booking is essential. Adults £10.95, children £13.95, under 2s £5.

19 & 20 December Reindeer Days Hat Hats, Reculver Coastal Park, CT6 6SS Come along and meet a family of reindeer, before warming up with a hot chocolate in the welcoming Hat Hats coffee shop. 1–6pm.

Bring your Christmas Party to Baypoint Sports Club this festive season Baypoint Sports Club offers the perfect venue for Christmas parties this feative season with a great party package to include a fabulous menu with festive food choices, a spacious ballroom with lighting for the dancefloor and a disco in a great central location with lots of free parking available.

To find out more call 01304 613022 or email: enquiries@ baypointsportsclub.co.uk

Don’t forget to say you saw these events advertised in

East Kent

Christmas carrots in a bag

A theatrical technique that seals in the flavour and lets the veg cook in its own moisture. You’ll need baking parchment and a stapler. Easy for little hands to help.

Preparation time 5 mins

Cooking time 30 mins

Serves 4

Ingredients

Method

•

8 good-sized carrots, peeled & chopped into 1cm diagonal chunks

•

1 cinnamon stick

Preheat oven to 180°C/Gas 4. To make the bag, spread out a rectangle of baking parchment, about 60x30cm, with the longer side towards you. Fold it in half from left to right.

Double-fold the top and bottom ends and staple the folds closed with two staples.

•

1 star anise

•

3 whole cloves

•

1 bay leaf

•

25g butter or a little oil

•

Salt & pepper

Put the carrots in a bowl, season well with salt and pepper and mix with enough oil or butter so that the seasoning sticks to them. Tip all the ingredients into the bag with a dash of water. Double-fold the open edge of the bag and staple in both corners and in the middle.

Lay in a roasting tin and bake for about 30 minutes; the bag should puff up. Turn out into a bowl or open at the table like a big bag of crisps. Watch out for the staples!

For more Christmas recipie ideas visit www.riverford.co.uk/ash/recipes 12 Families East Kent

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Family Shows and Pantomimes 23 November – 6 January Cinderella Marlowe Theatre Canterbury CT1 2AS Box Office: 01227 787787 Don’t miss this year’s family pantomime Cinderella, with a star-studded cast including Harry Reid (EastEnders), children’s favourite, Phil Gallagher (CBeebies’ Mister Maker), national treasure, Sally Lindsay, and Marlowe legends, Ben Roddy and Lloyd Hollett. The Marlowe Theatre pantomime has a reputation for being one of the biggest and best in the country and Cinderella promises to be their most spectacular show ever.

30 November – 31 December Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs The Friars, Aylesford ME20 7BY Box Office: 0800 999 7755 Maidstone’s Pantomime is back and this year there are added perks! In addition to experiencing Snow White’s magical adventure with her dwarf friends, ticket holders receive priority parking for Winter Wonderland, which can be found on the same site.

Tickets from £18.

1 - 31 December Aladdin The Hazlitt Theatre Maidstone, ME14 1PL Box Office: 01622 758611 Visit Hazlitt Theatre this Christmas on a spectacular carpet ride to Old Peking. Follow the story of Aladdin, a simple laundry boy who falls in love with a Princess. All that stands in his way is the evil Abanazar who wants to get his hands on the magic lamp to become the greatest sorcerer of all time.

Can Aladdin defeat Abanazar, keep the lamp and save the girl of his dreams?

8 December – 2 January Jack and the Beanstalk Theatre Royal, Addington St, Margate CT9 1PW Box Office: 01843 292795 Wicked Productions return to Margate with a ‘giant’ of a pantomime! With stunning scenery, costumes, music, magic and fun, and featuring cheeky comic Jez-O, this is certain to be a brilliant experience for all the family. Tickets £11 - £17.50.

11 - 16 December Night Tree Gulbenkian Canterbury, CT2 7NB Box Office: 01227 769075 Come into the woods to dance in the snow and bask in

glistening seasonal lights.

Full of the sounds and smells of the winter forest, Night Tree is a magical staging of Eva Buntings book of the same name. Made for audiences 3+ and their families, join us in this celebration of winter as we dress a rather special tree with edible decorations, sing songs and and meet the animals of the forest.

11 December – 30 December Dick Whittington Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone CT20 2DZ Box office: 01303 228600 The pantomime is once again directed by Bob Osborne, Produced by Neil Hunnisett and run by the Folkestone Community Theatre project. For further details visit the website.

silliness and a whole lot of festive cheer in this brand-new, thrilling production for all the family.

17 December Cinderella on Ice Planet Ice Rink, Gillingham ME8 0PU Box Office: 01634 388477 Go along for a magical retelling of the classic story. Cinderella on Ice is an ice show to remember with fun for all the family.

14 - 24 December A Christmas Carol Folkestone Quarterhouse Folkestone, CT20 1BN Box office 01303 760750 This Christmas, Marley’s spirit has returned to plague one unsuspecting soul: Ebenezer Scrooge. LAStheatre bring Charles Dickens’s Christmas classic to life. With only the spirits for company, Scrooge must revisit the past, learn from the present and finally, face up to the future. Expect songs,

AD_127615_Night Tree 87x130.qxp_Layout 1 01/10/2018 09:08 Page 1

Second Hand Dance present

NOV 24 – DEC 9 (WED – SUN) DEC 10 – 24 (DAILY)

A magical staging of the book

by Eve Bunting

For ages 3+ Gulbenkian, Canterbury 01227 769075 www.thegulbenkian.co.uk Commissioned by Gulbenkian/ART(Y)31 in association with Pavilion Dance South West Illustration: Karin Eklund

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Families East Kent 13 15/08/2018 17:05

WHAT’S ON November & December

Your essential guide to family events this November & December. We take great care in compiling our events guide, but check with the venues before you leave home just in case times or prices have changed since we went to print.

To promote your local event, nearly new sale, theatre shows or community event in the next what’s on guide please email editor@familieseastkent.co.uk

Throughout Nov & Dec Baby Rhyme Time Local libraries across East Kent Songs, nursery rhymes and fun at libraries across the region for 0 – 4 years and all events are free. Please check with the library before visiting as some sessions may not run during school holidays.

Throughout Nov & Dec Library Storytime Local libraries across East Kent Stories, activities and more for under 7s and their parents/ carers. All events are free.

Please check with the library before visiting as some sessions may not run during school holidays.

Throughout Nov & Dec Explorer Trail Westgate Parks, St. Peter’s Street, Canterbury, CT1 2BQ Pick up an Explorer Trails from the Westgate Towers Museum or the Beaney Library and join Julius the roman soldier on a voyage of discovery through the Westgate Parks. £2.50 (including crayons).

Every Week Big Scream Ashford Picture House Ashford, TN23 1AE Big Scream is exclusively for parents and carers with babies under the age of one.

Every Week Toddler Time Ashford Picture House Ashford, TN23 1AE Exclusively for preschool children and their parents or carers. Toddler Time screenings introduce your little ones to the cinema with a 30 minute screening.

Every Monday NCT Drop-in Antenatal Exercise Barton Court Church, Canterbury CT1 Relax, stretch and breathe.

Call 07831 615998 for details.

6.30-8pm.

14 Families East Kent

Every Tuesday NCT Mother and Baby Yoga Lower Hardres Village Hall, Canterbury, CT4 5NP Mother and baby yoga postnatal drop-in every Tuesday morning. £8 per session or £30 for a batch of four sessions. 11am-12.30pm.

Every Thursday NCT Bumps & Babies Westgate Hall, Canterbury, CT1 2BT Group for expectant mums, and parents with babies or children under three.

Refreshments are available from the café and some toys will be provided. 12-2pm.

Every Friday (term time only) Coffee & Chaos Canterbury Baptist Church, Canterbury, CT1 1UT A group open to all parents with children below school age. Includes free play, crafts, singing, stories and snacks.

First visit is free and £1 per family after this. 10-11.30am.

Every Saturday (term time only).

Every Saturday Kids’ Club Ashford Picture House Ashford, TN23 1AE Saturday morning Kids’ Club is exclusively for children and their parents or carers. Enjoy a family friendly film and activities with children.

Saturday Mornings Art Club Espression Interactive Arts Café Canterbury, CT1 2DZ A creative arts club for primary aged children (5-11 year olds) to try out different art and craft techniques, learn new skills and make new friends.

Booking required. Call 01227 765665. 10am-12noon.

Every Sunday Junior Park Run Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF A free 2K junior park run takes place every Sunday morning at 9am and is suitable for ages

4 – 14 years. Pre-register at 111. parkrun.org.uk/betteshangerjuniors Every Sunday Betteshanger Bikers Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF Join Betteshanger Bikers weekly cycle club for young mountain bikers. Get expert coaching, learn awesome cycling skills and take part in fun and exciting games from British Cycling qualified coaches. Ages 8 – 14. 1011.30am.

3 & 4 November Fireworks Spectacular Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL Two nights of spectacular displays set to the theme of ‘Dancing’. With moving images, music and incredible fireworks over the historic castle. Adult £23, Child £15, under 4s free.

3 & 4 November Kent Life Fireworks Kent Life, Maidstone ME14 3AU With a bonfire lit by firebreathers, as well as face painting, fairground rides and the usual Kent Life attractions, you are sure to enjoy this exciting event. Kent Life opens at 3pm with bonfire at 6.15pm, followed by the spectacular themed fireworks at 6.45pm.

Tickets must be pre-booked.

Adults £12, child £10, family (2+2) £40.

5 November Family Fireworks Viking Bay Beach, Broadstairs Find childrens’ funfair rides and hot and cold foods in Victoria Gardens with a special appearance from the ‘Back to the Future’ DeLorean Time Machine from 6pm.

Live music starts at 6pm with fireworks at 8pm.

10 November – 17 February British Wildlife Photography Awards Exhibition The Beaney Canterbury CT1 2BD An exhibition on the British Wildlife Photography Awards, celebrating both the work of amateur and professional photographers and the beauty and diversity of British wildlife.

Winning images are chosen from thousands of entries in fifteen separate categories including a category for film and two junior categories to encourage young people to connect with nature through photography.

11 November NCT Toy & Equipment Nearly New Sale Towers School Ashford Indoor NCT Nearly New Sale, offering affordable preloved baby equipment and toys with focus on high-quality products at a bargain price. Doors open: 10.00am (members) 10.45am (non-members).

Admission: £2.00 per adult (in aid of NCT charity). Sale close: 12.30pm

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13 & 14 November Stick Man Hazlitt Theatre, Maidstone ME14 1PP Touching, funny and utterly original, Scamp Theatre present their delightful adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Stick Man. This award-winning production, from the team behind The Scarecrows’ Wedding, features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves. Age 3+ Tickets £15 for adults and £13 for children.

17 November Waterstones Celebrates ‘The Crimes of Grindelwald’ Waterstones, Maidstone ME14 1QP A celebration of the release of the new Fantastic Beasts screenplay, ‘The Crimes of Grindelwald’. Wizards and witches can pick up their copy of the book, as well as take part in a range of activities, games and quizzes! Wizarding robes encouraged, but not compulsory. (Muggles also welcome).

18 November How to Hide a Lion Theatre Royal, Addington St, Margate, CT9 1PW When a lion is chased out of town, a little girl, Iris, helps him to find somewhere to hide.

Iris embarks on a mission to squash her new friend into a variety of sneaky tight spots, as the misinformed town folk try and track him down. Helen Stephens’ magical book, ‘How to Hide a Lion’, comes to life with playful humour, dazzling puppets and jazz. Adults £8, Concessions £7 or Family of 4 £25. Under 2s free provided they sit on a paying ticket holder’s lap.

20 & 21 November Shakespeare School’s Festival Theatre Royal, Addington St, Margate, CT9 1PW See Shakespeare’s timeless stories brought to life like never before, and support young people from your

community as they take to the stage to perform a series of unique abridged Shakespeare productions. Young people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities have been finding their ‘voice’ in their school rehearsal room, culminating in a thrilling night of theatre.

Performances start at 7pm.

Tickets: £9.75/£7.75. Group rate: £6.50 (plus booking fees).

Naughty Fox and a whole host of other creatures, for a tale of sharing and caring.

A spellbinding journey of discovery and friendship, with an important message: it’s better to share. Told by two storytellers who use puppetry, interactive musical instruments and light projection to make magic from everyday objects.

24 November Craft and Gift Fair King’s Hall, Herne Bay CT6 6BA A selection of the finest crafts and gifts Kent has to offer, with some exciting new additions for everyone to enjoy at this month’s fair.

9 December Kent Baby and Toddler Show Maidstone Leisure Centre, Maidstone ME15 7RN The show celebrates everything pregnancy to pre-school Kent has to offer!

Great shopping, wonderful local services, fantastic family entertainment, giveaways, goodie bags, demonstrations, and much more. A great day out whether you are expecting your first, or your fifth!

Discounted tickets available online £3.50 per adult. All kids free.

24 November The Big Enormous Present Gulbenkian Theatre, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NB ‘The Big Enormous Present’ explores the pressures of fitting in, where we find happiness and how giving can sometimes feel as good as receiving. A mysterious present has appeared in the school playground. Who can it possibly be for? Jack, Dot Polly? What could be waiting inside? Find out in this 50 minute play for 3-8 year olds.

Tickets £1-£8.

24 November Toy Fair Hornby Visitor Centre, Margate CT9 4JX As well as exploring the usual exhibits from Hornby, enjoy the toy fair where a range of toys and curiosities from across the ages will be on show. £2 entry to the fair or £6.50 combined entrance, £4 for children.

24 November Whitstable Winter Baby and Children’s Market Swalecliffe & Chestfield Community Centre, CT5 2QU Lots of stalls selling excellent quality nearly new baby & children’s items from birth to 8 years. Plus a small selection of unique businesses in the baby & children’s industry showcasing and selling their products & services. Hot and cold refreshments will be available. £1 admission, under 16s go free.

7 – 23 December The Naughty Fox Marlowe Theatre Studio, Canterbury Snuggle up with your little ones and enter an enchanting winter wonderland: meet the

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24 December Open Air Community Carols Rose Square, Canterbury Join the Lord Mayor of Canterbury at 6pm on Christmas in Rose Square for the annual Christmas Carol singing. Wrap up warm, soak

up the Christmas atmosphere at this lovely event to start your Christmas. As usual, a collection will be taken for the Lord Mayor’s Christmas Gift Fund.

26 December Boxing Day Ramble Ightham Mote, Sevenoaks TN15 0NT Meet at the Mote café, pick up a bacon or sausage butty from the café before walking off the Christmas excess. Dogs on leads are welcome. Stout shoes/boots & appropriate clothing are essential. The walk is unsuitable for buggies.

10am -12noon.

26 December – 1 January The Winter Trail Leeds Castle, Maidstone ME17 1PL Wrap up warm and pull on your wellies to walk off the Christmas pudding. This special trail will lead you across the Castle estate, collecting clues along the way. A relaxed family event.

Included in admission fee to the Castle gardens.

The secret to success is…

sharing your child’s reading journey Regular deliveries of books at your child’s reading level.

www.readingchest.co.uk Book Rental for Children Learning to Read Families East Kent 15

We need you

to foster

Right now there is a shortage of foster carers in our area and we have children who need a caring, nurturing, stable home.

You can apply to be a Foster Carer if you: • Are single, married or in a same sex relationship • Employed or unemployed, self employed • Are flexible and have the ability to care for children with a range of different needs • Have good support networks • Have a spare bedroom in your house • Have an ability to work with professionals • Are over the age of 21 years (there is no upper age limit)

All the ingredients for a 100% organic Christmas

call: 020 8778 9669 www.fosteringsupportgroup.com Email: fsginfo@fosteringsupportgroup.com

We offer: • A dedicated supervising team member • A generous weekly allowance • Two weeks paid respite • Ongoing training • Monthly support Text ‘foster’ to group meetings • Out of hours support plus much more

Veg, meat & all the trimmings delivered free to your door

81222

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© P&Co. Ltd. 2018

THE CASTLE

24th November to 1st January

MEDIA PARTNER

This Christmas, Paddington™ and classic festive stories will be brought to life through illustrations in the magnificent Castle rooms.

THE CHRISTMAS MARKET Weekends from 24th November to 16th December Join us for our annual Christmas Market on the Cedar Lawn overlooking the Castle and discover an array of seasonal gifts, specialist food and drink and Father Christmas’ Reindeer in their stable. leeds-castle.com

28728 East LC Xmas Families Kent2018 FM 180x130.indd 1

05/10/2018 12:02 familiesonline.co.uk