Families Bedfordshire May June 2014

FREE

MAY/JUN

201

ISSUE10 4

Great competitions to enter!

What's on: May & June

Party feature & Directory For families with young children aged 0 -12 in Bedfordshire

2-4 Editor's Welcome Hello and welcome to the May-June issue!

We're springing into summer here at Families Bedfordshire and in this issue we've got lots of ideas about how to throw a fabulous children's party. Check out our Parties Directory in the magazine and online for more information (www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk/ directory).

We've also got two fantastic competitions for you to enter, and on our Clubs and Classes page we take a look at the reasons why booking up your children's classes early can be a good thing. If you do have any local Clubs and Classes news, then please do let us know.

Email us at editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk.

Finally, there are lots of suggestions about 'What's on' in the May half-term and our guide as to how to burn off your kids' energy! With the May and summer holidays approaching, I hope you find this useful.

Enjoy the summer!

Judith Competition winners: Congratulations to the winners of the six family tickets to Mead Open Farm: T Whiteside, J Pointon, D Goddard, C Chester, J Reeve & M Jankowska.

P.S Our July-August issue will include lots of info about activities to do over the summer and holiday camps.

Copy deadline: Friday 6 June

NEWS AND INFO

Contents

5

CLUBS AND CLASSES

6

FOOD AND HEALTH NEWS

7

EDUCATION NEWS

8-9

PARTIES FEATURE

10

PARTIES DIRECTORY

11

COMPETITIONS

12

HOW TO BURN KIDS’ ENERGY

13

DAZZLING DECORATIONS

14 - 15

WHAT’S ON

Editor: Judith Dow editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk Mob: 07889 894431 or phone: 01727 373929.

Part of the Families ® magazines group, established 1990. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned & operated under license.

Design: CBF - www.cbfnet.co.uk Photo credits: Front cover: Oobaloos Photography www.oobaloos.com Pg 3 © Steve Knell (rspb-images.com); pg 5 © len44ik – Fotolia.com; © Jasmin Merdan – Fotolia.com; pg 6 © Ingo Bartussek – Fotolia.com; pg 8 © Petro Feketa – Fotolia.com; © Konstantin Yuganov – Fotolia.com; pg 12 © Giuseppe Porzani – Fotolia.com.

Families Bedfordshire is printed by The Manson Group (01727 848440) on paper sourced from sustainable forests and the inks used are vegetable based.

Distribution: We print 14,000 copies which are distributed to selected points in Bedfordshire. For further distribution information please contact: editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

O

There's lots to keep all the family entertained this summer in Dunstable.... here are some of the highlights!

n Saturday 17 May, Dunstable Town Council is hosting a free ‘Around The World’ event in Priory Gardens for one day only, giving everyone the chance to discover different areas of the world and learn about their cultures.

Ride the waves at the Flow House!

O

ur family day out at the Flow House in Bedford began when we met with the rest of our group and our instructor to watch a short hints and tips video. Very useful - particularly as when you get to the edge of the water you really can't hear a thing - it's that loud!

We then proceeded to get changed into wetsuits and I must admit by then I was starting to feel a tiny bit nervous of what lay ahead. I needn't have worried as there was no pressure from our instructor and even I managed to plunge myself in on the second time of trying.

We were with a birthday group of boys and girls, and I could see they loved every minute of it. On your first surf it really is quite daunting with the fast rush of the water and the noisy sound, but by the fourth go I felt much more relaxed. My son resisted until the end - at six he is at the younger end of surf riders - but he had a brilliant ride with our instructor Callum who went on the surf board with him.

Afterwards we relaxed in the bar area and had some drinks and snacks, while watching another group take to the indoor 'sea'. It was a unique experience which made for a very enjoyable activity – for all ages!

More info: http://www.flowhouse.co.uk

2

May/June 2014

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

You will be able to walk from continent to continent with ease, no passport required, and there will also be different types of dances on show featuring everything from the tango to Irish dancing and music to a traditional Chinese lion dance, as well as the chance to browse stalls specific to all seven continents of the world.

The Dunstable Classic Motor Rally will be held on Saturday 7 June, from 10-4pm in Priory Gardens. With six categories of vehicles this year including Pre-War, Commercial and the all new Military category, there is bound to be something for everyone. Free event for visitors and exhibitors alike!

There will be eight Sunday Band concerts for all ages to enjoy from Sunday 29 June to 24 August from 3pm-4.45pm, in Grove House Gardens. The first four concerts will feature traditional brass band music, while the following four concerts will be specifically themed with songs from TV, films and the West End, following with big band music, and music from the last night at the Proms.

Party in the Park comes to Grove House Gardens on Saturday 19 July, 12 noon to 8 pm where you can enjoy live music, outside bar, a fun fair, petting zoo, crazy golf plus a host of other children activities.

Finally, Dunstable Rocks will be coming on Saturday 30 August, 12 noon to 10 pm. Grove House Gardens. Full line up to be confirmed!

More info on all the above: www.dunstable.gov.uk

News and info Happy campers for happy wildlife

Visit the classic Shuttleworth Collection.

Over fifty unique and mostly original airworthy aeroplanes, vintage cars and motorcycles.

Find admission prices and opening times on our website.

From 16-22 June, the RSPB is encouraging people to spend a night under the stars to find out which creatures they share their homes with, and raise money to help protect them.

As well as getting their sleepouts sponsored to raise money and help save wildlife, everyone taking part can also do a range of activities, such as den building, torchlight safaris and bug hunting.

All of the money raised will go to help give nature a home. £20 could buy a nestbox for starlings, £30 could pay for a GPS tag to monitor where a seabird flies to find food and £60 could keep water voles “plopping” as it dives into water.

With special night time activities like outdoor cooking, stories round the campfire and night time strolls, this is the ultimate summer Sleepout experience for those looking for a wilder time.

More info: www.rspb.org.uk/sleepout.

Our special events, airshows, and family entertainment run throughout the year, with airshows from May-October.

Summer 2014 events now available on our website.

Book online or by telephone.

01767 627927

www.shuttleworth.org Shuttleworth, Old Warden Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade, Bedfordshire SG18 9EP Reg Charity No. 307534

Families Beds.indd 1

*Please see website for full T&Cs

02/04/2014 20:25:37

Carnivals are coming!

Carnival season is in the air with not one but two to enjoy this summer!

Luton Carnival kicks off on Sunday 25 May from 12pm noon from Wardown Park.

With spectacular colourful costumes, music from around the globe, street entertainers and international food to tickle your taste buds, this will be a fantastic free family day out.

While over in Flitwick, the Carnival returns after a 14 year break.

Organised by Flitwick Town Council, the parade leaving the Rufus Centre, Flitwick at 11.15am will head to the Millennium Park, Flitwick. It will include floats, walkers, a samba band, plus a Carnival prince and princess heading things up. Galloping Acrobatics (pictured) will be providing some equestrian moves on the Arena Stage during the afternoon, along with jazz, Morris dancers, birds of prey display, tug of war competition and a balloon release to finish.The musical entertainment will begin from 4pm and it's free to get in.

More info: www.carnivalarts.org.uk/Carnival2014.aspx and www.flitwick.gov.uk

Farley Junior School’s pupils become cycling superheroes for a day Farley Junior School in Luton's pupils became cycling superheroes for the day, as part of The Big Pedal, a national competition organised by charity Sustrans that encourages children to choose two wheels for their school journeys.

For the final day of the competition (14 March) pupils dressed up as their favourite superhero including Batman, Spiderman, Superman and Captain America and donated £1 to raise funds to support Sustrans’ work in schools. The charity also hosted a Breakfast Club on the day serving a healthy meal and the children participated in lots of fun cycling activities.

Farley Junior earned points for every child that chose to scooter or cycle each day in order to compete against other schools across the UK for fantastic prizes. The school won the cycling drummer prize as a reward for their efforts in making the Big Pedal a great success.

To advertise: 01727 373929

May/June 2014

3

News and info Walk that Way Compiled by Joanna Parry

I

t’s time to get walking again! This year’s Walk To School Week runs from 19-23 May, bringing together nearly one million schoolchildren, teachers and parents. 2014’s campaign promises to be bigger and better than ever before, with plenty of fun ideas of how to get involved. With Strider’s 5-day Walking Challenge it’s easier than ever to take part, plus you also get a chance to win an iPad mini.

Walk to School Week reinforces five benefits of walking: safety, discovery, health, eco-friendly and social time, so how about setting up a Park & Stride area around your school, or holding a Walk to School event and encouraging everyone to leave their cars at home for a day? One of our favourite ideas is to team up with neighbouring schools and organise a walking relay between schools, with refreshment stops at each one! Or you could nominate your dream walking companion from the world of books and dress up as them on Walk to School Day. A treasure hunt is a fun way to add a bit of competition on the walk to school, too. http://www.walktoworkweek.org.uk/

Hoo's Kids Book Fest is coming!

MOTHER

by Nature My name is Bianca and l live in Bedford. My background is in research and the public sector.

Organisers of the annual Hoo’s Kids Book Fest on Sunday 11 May, have confirmed yet another impressive line-up for their celebration of literature at the magical Luton Hoo Walled Garden. Now in its third year, the festival crams a feast of family fun into just one day and audiences can expect to see some of the biggest names in children’s books, including Robert Muchamore, author of the bestselling Cherub series and award-winning Sophie McKenzie, who has won the prestigious Red House Book Award as well as Richard and Judy's Best Kids Books. Younger readers have the chance to see Jim Smith, author of the rib-tickling Barry Loser and winner of the 2013 Roald Dahl Funny Prize.

Plus, there are lots of family-friendly activities going on including tree painting, wigwam building and visits from popular children’s characters - it's the perfect day out for all the family.

For more info http://www.hoosbookfest.com for the full programme details.

4

May/June 2014

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

Quality time, money, holidays, security, health and wellbeing were all the things that I was constantly looking for. I needed to find something that would allow for all of these. Last year I was presented with the amazing opportunity of Mother By Nature and since then I have not looked back. I work Mother By Nature part-time around my current commitments, but enjoy the perks of quality time with my family. Not only has it been rewarding through the financial rewards but also through time with loved ones. Mother By Nature, encourages a great way forward for those who want it and too empowers mothers to be the best that they can be.We work when we want, we choose who we work with, we earn what we want.

Mother by Nature celebrates womanhood and motherhood combined, as Mothers are some of the most up-skilled and versatile people around.

To contact Bianca tel: 07951 212879. More info: www.motherbynature.co.uk

Clubs and classes New all weather sports ground to open in Bedford

The UK’s No.1 school holiday day camps

The Salvation Army is preparing to open a new all-weather sports ground adjacent to new meetings rooms and a café in the heart of Bedford to give people of all ages the opportunity to get fit, study, or just relax in a safe environment.

The new sports ground at the Army’s Bedford Congress Hall corps (church) in Commercial Road will open on Saturday,May 24 with five-a-side football and netball tournaments as well as a street festival.

Bedford Congress Hall corps officer (church leader) Major Cliff Allchin, said: “We want to create a space where everyone feels welcome to come and study, do sports, or even just chill out. This project has been 15 years in the making, since the idea was first mooted, and our dedication to the community has been paramount throughout this time.”

Splash! Local Bedfordshire 4 -8 year olds are going Under the Sea. This April to July, Perform children will be diving down to a magical world full of watery adventures. They’ll meet Dolly Dolphin, Septamus the Octopus and Smelly-Fish-Jelly-Fish. Learn to dance The Fishy Funk and by the end of term rescue the Lost Pearl from the scary Deep Sea Creature.

Any interested 4-8 year old can try out the classes by attending a free trial session at Heath and Reach.

To book a free trial session please call 0845 400 4000 or go to www.perform.org.uk.

How early should you book your September classes?

By Joanna Parry

Fun and affordable childcare in the school holidays

Book online at www.supercamps.co.uk or call 01235 467300 CALLING ALL PARENTS! Our business is exploding and we need help!

We are three busy parents working together to help busy parents find the ideal work/life balance.

Would an £200 to £300 per month make a difference to the family budget?

Do you need an extra income in order to give your kids more activities and treats?

Is finding flexible work proving difficult whilst juggling parenthood?

We are looking for parents who want a challenge while running a business from home.

Interested? Call Bianca on 07951 212 879 www.motherbynature.co.uk

• You won’t get stuck with a term of classes your child detests. Many classes offer trial sessions so if you make the most of them now you can be sure you are choosing what’s right for your child come September. Just because their best friend is doing trampolining doesn’t mean your child will love it • Some activities are so popular that they have long waiting lists (some over a year long!). Book early to avoid disappointment • You can avoid the mad panic of early September. It can be hard enough settling your child into nursery or getting them back into the routine of school, homework and getting up at the crack of dawn – the last thing you want to do is try to sort out clubs!

• You’ll get your first choice of time slot. Some classes get so booked up that if you leave it until September the only time you’ll be left with is 7pm on a Friday night – not fun! It’s not unheard of for parents to be queueing outside swimming pools from 6am on the morning registration opens, just to get a workable slot. After-school activities affect the whole family and you don’t want to have to pick up from activities while your other children are desperate for their supper • You’ll get a class that works for your family. More than one child can mean more than one activity on the same afternoon and much as we’d like to be in two places at one time, it’s just not possible. Planning in advance means less stress and more peace of mind.

• You’ll get a class in a branch that is close to home. It’s often easier to walk than cramming everyone into the car again, let alone better for the environment

R

ugby or ballet, swimming or gymnastics, drama or Brownies - whatever activity your child loves, how soon should you book for the autumn term? While some of us are happy to wait until the very last minute to book our children’s classes, others prefer to book well in advance.

It is certainly worth starting to look for classes early on - even as much as a whole term in advance. Here’s why:

• Extra-curricular activities are not essential and too many can leave everyone exhausted and stressed, but if you do choose carefully and book in advance, a few clubs and classes can bring huge benefits to your child.

If you are looking for local Clubs and Classes in the area then do check out our online Directory at: http://www.familiesonline.co.uk/LOCATIONS/Bedfordshire/ Directory/Clubs-Classes

To advertise: 01727 373929

May/June 2014

5

Food and health news

Top Tips for Teeth!

To coincide with this year's National Smile Month (www.nationalsmilemonth.org.uk) which is running from 19 May – 19 June, Rachel Keith from Community Dental Services CIC, offers some top tips for teeth.

Avoid the supermarket – it’s good for the planet...

By Susan Tomlinson Take a stroll down any high street, and it’s not hard to see why the supermarket is at the top of the food chain. They’re opening everywhere. In fact, it’s not a surprise to discover they own nearly 80% of the food and grocery market.

Sure, they’re convenient but with all that shopping ease, there’s a hidden price - the producer.

Every year, thousands of farmers and farmworkers are forced to leave their livelihood because of the low prices they receive for their produce. According to the National Farmer’s Union, supermarkets more than doubling their share of the price of milk, has contributed to one dairy farmer going out of business every day for the past ten years.

And as for those “two for one” supermarket deals, it is the producer, not the supermarket who is paying for the generous discount. In fact, sometimes the farmer will have little or no idea how much he may be paid for the produce and may well make no profit at all.

Yet the big four, as they are known, report huge profits, rising every year.

It’s not only their tactics with producers that give them a bad name, but their impact on the environment too. Despite any supermarket pledge to go green, the reality is that with larger numbers of car-based hypermarkets; food sourced (often unsustainably from around the world) and trucked across the UK, these companies have got a long way to go.

So how best to avoid them?

Save yourself a trip to the supermarket and get organic, locally grown goodies delivered to your front door. To find your local scheme, try http://boxscheme.org, or contact the Soil Association at: http://www.soilassociation.org Grow Your Own Find out how to seed and grow seasonal foods, check out: http://www.rhs.org.uk/Gardening/Grow-Your-Own/ Allotments are a great way to avoid the supermarket. To find your local scheme, contact The National Allotment Societyon http://www.nsalg.org.uk/ Create your own wholesale group: Gather a few friends and buy quality products that won’t cost the earth with www.sumawholesale.coop

A healthy, pain free mouth is hugely important for us all as we want to be able to communicate, smile and eat a full range of food and drink. Decay and erosion are the two main dental diseases amongst children and they are both entirely preventable.

Community Dental Services found that between 2012-2013, 331 children in Luton and Bedfordshire had a general anaesthetic to undergo dental extractions, so establishing good oral health habits at a young age goes a long way to avoiding poor oral health.

Some tips for babies and children are: Brush before bedtime and at one other time during the day using a fluoride toothpaste Ensure toothpaste has no less than 1000ppm (parts per million) of fluoride (check the ingredients on the tube) Encourage children to spit out excess toothpaste – avoid rinsing with water as it washes the fluoride away Babies’ teeth should be brushed twice a day as soon as they begin to appear in the mouth with a soft, small headed toothbrush and smear of toothpaste Take your child to the dentist as soon as possible and continue regular visits From 6 months onwards a baby can drink from an open cup.

Snacking: Every time you eat or drink something sugary the chances of tooth decay increase, so try to keep them to mealtimes.

Ideas for some tooth friendly snacks: Fresh fruit and vegetables - Toast - with a savoury topping Breads and breadsticks - Crackers and cheese - Milk - Water Although generally healthy fruit smoothies, juices, fresh milkshakes and dried fruit (like raisins) are not tooth friendly so should be kept to mealtimes.

Party tip...

Instead of giving out sweets as prizes for party games, give stickers, a small toy or anything else which appeals!

Community Dental Services (CIC) is a social enterprise in Bedfordshire and Suffolk “improving oral health where people are most in need”. www.communitydentalservices.co.uk

Harpers Foods relocates snacks and daily specials, plus a function room all on offer, there is much to enjoy. to Pepperstock!

Calling foodies everywhere! Harpers (www.harpersfood.co.uk), purveyors of fine food and wine are relocating to new premises in Pepperstock, near Slip End, Luton and will be open for business on Wednesday 7 May! With tasting days, a fine food and wine society, a coffee shop within the food hall offering light lunches,

6

May/June 2014

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

The official grand opening will take place on Friday 6 June, Saturday 7 June (9-5pm) and Sunday 8 June (10am-3pm). There will be product tastings, hand made cheesecakes, deli- products, country wines, local savoury selection and vouchers available for all customers. We'll see you there!

Education news A festival for all ages with top author’s illustrators, comic artists and more...

Bringing favourite books to life in the magical setting of the Luton Hoo Walled Garden!

Photo shows Mrs Pippa Villa, Headteacher at Polam School in Bedford with some of the children in Year 2. The school has recently been judged 'outstanding' in the majority of its key areas by the School Inspection Service.

Sunday 11th May, 10.30am - 5pm For tickets and info see: www.hoosbookfest.org

Pupils at Pilgrims Pre-Preparatory School in Bedford have taken part in Lots of Socks Day – an annual, international fundraising event organised by Down Syndrome International to mark World Down Syndrome Day on 21 March.

Celebration cake marks school's 250th anniversary

The money raised will be used to heighten awareness of the genetic condition, which causes delay in physical and intellectual development in those affected. William (pictured) is 5 years old and is in Reception at Pilgrims School.

EDUCATION NEWS

Back in March, the catering team at Bedford Modern School unveiled a huge celebration cake (pictured) to mark the School’s 250th anniversary as part of a number of events being planned.

Measuring 2.16 metres long and 1.12 metres wide, it took 27 hours to make, contained 36kg each of flour, sugar and margarine, 576 eggs along with 30kg of jam and 88kg of icing and took six men to carry it as it weighed a total of 259kg!

Compiled by Joanna Parry

This May sees the return of National Share-A-Story Month, an annual celebration of the power of storytelling and story sharing Run by the Federation of Children’s Book Groups, Share-A-Story Month is a fantastic opportunity to bring children and stories together, with a whole host of events running across the country. The theme for 2014 is ‘Imagination and Inventiveness’, celebrating with Dahl & Dahl and Puffin Publishers the 50th Anniversary of the publication of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Check out the website for plenty of ideas, activity packs, posters and competition prizes. www.fcbg.org.uk/national-share-a-story-month The Gove revolution continues… ….as the Education Secretary pledges an increase to Latin and Greek in state secondary schools, as well as suggesting that all secondary schools put their 13-year-olds forward to sit the Common Entrance Exam, in a move to give schools an insight into how their pupils are doing. ‘Since the last Labour government abolished key stage three tests for 14-year-olds, we have had no rigorous externally-set and marked measures of progress for students in the first five years of secondary school,’ Michael Gove said. ‘I want state schools to try out Common Entrance exams - giving them a chance to check how well they and their pupils are performing against some of the top schools around the world.’ He also encourages schools to stay open for up to 10 hours a day, allowing time for structured homework sessions but also for after-school sports matches, orchestra rehearsals and clubs. His plans received a mixed reception however, with Russell Hobby, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers saying, ‘We have no problem with schools staying open for longer provided most of those additional hours are used for extracurricular activities. We need to be clear on where the money will come from to fund the extra staffing required, given that teachers are already working a 48-hour week on average under the current arrangements.’ Christine Blower, general secretary of the National Union of Teachers, added, ‘The push for longer school days of up to 10 hours will be counterproductive for many children and young people. Primary school pupils in particular will find it very difficult to concentrate or even stay awake for such long periods.’

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS OPEN DAYS

Summer Open Morning Thursday 8 May, 10am-1pm Bedford Girls School, Cardington Road, Bedford More info: www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Open Day Thursday 15 May Kings House Prep School, High Street Leagrave, Luton More info tel: 01582 491 430 Open Day Saturday 17 May 9.30am-11.30am Orchard School, Higham Gobion Road, Barton Le Clay More info tel: 01582 882054 Beechwood Park Open Day Friday 23 May, 9.30am-12noon Beechwood Park School, Markyate More info: www.beechwoodpark.net/openday Acorn Pre-Prep Open Day Saturday 31 May 2 Roman Road, Luton More info. Tel: 01582 574 390 Action Day Wednesday 11 June Bedford Modern, Manton Lane, Bedford See the school in action.

More info: www.bedmod.co.uk

To advertise: 01727 373929

May/June 2014

7

Parties feature

Fabulous parties at every age A

birthday party is a ritual of childhood and an event that’s remembered forever. So the pressure is on – how do you ensure success and survival (both your own and your home's)?

Joanna Moorhead guides you through what’s best, age by age 0-3 years There’s just one word that matters here: simplicity. Birthday parties for tinies can be marvellous, memorable affairs, but they don’t need to be elaborate or to involve much expense or entertainment or special props.

In essence, you’re catering for the grown-ups as much as for the children – because at this stage, the adults will definitely stay (and you’re more than likely to have a few grandparents in the mix as well).

Concentrate on creating a fun, easy, safe space for the children – a soft play space with plenty of toys strewn around is ideal – and make sure the adults are well catered-for: if they stay calm, the children will as well.

If you want something with a bit of a theme, how about a teddy bears’ picnic? Make sure everyone remembers to take their favourite cuddlies home at the end though, or there will be tears at bedtime!

4-6 years At this stage parties can be a bit more ambitious and a time when it is well worth investing in a great entertainer: they are experts, know how to crowd control while producing shrieks and honest laughs. However don’t assume that to put on a great bash you need to spend lots of money. At this age children can have loads of fun without a big outlay; later on, when they’re tweens and teens, you’ll be under pressure to shell out big-time, so don’t pre-empt that now. A party at home or in the local park can be huge fun; traditional party games will be popular, and if you want to push the boat out a bit consider investing in a bouncy castle; or if home really isn’t a possibility, a soft play centre will be hassle-free, if more expensive. Themed parties are great for this age group, and they actually make life simpler for the party organiser: a pirate theme is always popular, or sea creatures, or pick up on your child’s favourite book or TV programme. Dressing up is a big hit for this age group too.

7-9 years Activities work a treat at this stage, whether you’re at home or in a church hall or at a park. For a popular and low-budget option, think about a baking party at home – weigh out all the ingredients before the

8

May/June 2014

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

children arrive, get them to mix and decorate them and then pop them in the oven to bake while you play a few party games (shortbread biscuits are easy peasy; have a range of cutters for exciting shapes).

10-12 years Older children like going out to party. To keep the costs down, encourage a smaller number of guests - think about a trip to the seaside or to an exciting adventure playground they’ve not visited before, and remember that the journey can be as much fun as the activity at the end of it. If you don’t mind spending a bit more, a trip to a climbing wall, an ice rink, a bowling rink or a go-karting centre can be wonderful fun too.

The golden rules Never have a party that lasts more than two hours The younger the child, the fewer the guests Party bags can be cheap as chips, thanks to charity and pound shops - but always have them, they’re hugely popular Have a plan mapped out for what should happen when Food doesn’t need to be complicated It does need to include options – many children won’t eat ham/cheese/eggs/grapes/pizza Don’t overfeed guests with too much food Putting cup cakes rather than slices of cake into party bags makes life easier

Don’t overdo the food. Don’t pile too much on the table; have more in the fridge or on standby to whip out if needed Don’t use paper plates – it’s easy to scrape them quickly and chuck them in the dishwasher

HERE’S OUR FAMILIES TOP TIPS ON HOW TO HAVE A PARTY THAT GOES WITH A SWING – AND IS GREEN…

Buy big packets of eg biscuits, crisps etc. Not only does that mean less waste, it’s also cheaper – and many the ‘healthier’ brands of, eg, crisps only come in big packets Shop-bought cakes are stuffed with sugar, so make your own: and if you don’t make cakes, try to find a local, home-based cakemaker who will do one for you.

We are great fans of story tellers and magicians at Families and have had absolutely wonderful parties being entertained by some of our local professionals. .. sometimes it is just sooo worth it! Blow the budget and really enjoy it!

Tel: 0845 200 2960 To advertise: 01727 373929

May/June 2014

9

Party directory Check out our Parties Directory for some great ideas about what to do and where to go for your party within Bedfordshire. You can also find more information online in our Directory at: http://www.familiesonline.co.uk/LOCATIONS/ Bedfordshire/Directory/Children-s-Parties OUTDOOR PARTIES

BEAR PARTIES B-Friend a Bear Parties B-Friend a Bear Parties offered in the comfort of your own home.. Do it yourself or we host it. Prices start from £10 a head Lots of friends waiting to be loved.

Call us for more info on 01525 840271.

Fairies n Frogs, Traditional toy shop, 9 Church Street, Ampthill

Forest of Marston Vale and Millenium Centre Naturally you want something different for your child’s birthday party. Why not choose treasure/scavenger hunting or pond dipping for a party everyone will remember. Includes party bag, food and drink. £14 per child, minimum 10 children, suitable up to age 12. For free family wetlands pass, quote ‘FAMILIES’ when booking.

E: toys@fairiesnfrogs.co.uk W: www.fairiesnfrogs.co.uk or W:www.facebook.com/pages/B-Friend-a-Bear/

Contact Helen Murray tel: 01234 762613 Forest of Marston Vale and Millenium Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine, Bedford MK43 0PR E:Helen.murray@marstonvale.org We run: The Kiln is Bedford’s W:http://marstonvale.org/kids-parties Painting on Pottery studio

OUTDOOR PARTIES

Jewellery enamelling parties SOFT PLAY PARTIES

Forest of Marston Vale and Millenium Centre Naturally you want something different for your child’s birthday party. Why not choose treasure/scavenger hunting or pond dipping for a party everyone will remember. Includes party bag, food and drink. £14 per child, minimum 10 children, suitable up to age 12. For free family wetlands pass, quote ‘FAMILIES’ when booking.

Playhouse Bedford Decopatch parties Bedford's newest indoor soft play-centre for children up to 11 years old offers parties with We will Ensure you have a fun party and a minimum of prices starting from £10.50 Help you create something & Pirate Party has prices starting from £12.50 10 children.

The Princess made by you (min Give 10 children), while Baby & Toddler Parties are held in the Baby & you a designated party Toddler area. area and host

Contact Helen Murray tel: 01234 762613 Forest of Marston Vale and Millenium Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine, Bedford MK43 0PR E:Helen.murray@marstonvale.org W:http://marstonvale.org/kids-parties

Provide invites “The calmest party contact The Kiln: Contact: Tel: 0845 200 2960 Provide squash during your place to hold a 87 High St, birthday party!

Playhouse Bedford, Bedford, Twinwoods Business Park, Thurleigh Road, Milton Ernest, party Looking forward MK40 1NE to picking up our Ensure MK44 1FDit is stress free 01234 216799 creations, you do

BIRTHDAY PARTIES

Painting on pottery parties

• •

•Soap and pamper products parties •

 



Cater for 6-20 people



SOFT PLAY PARTIES Playhouse Bedford Bedford's newest indoor soft play-centre for children up to 11 years old offers parties with prices starting from £10.50 and a minimum of 10 children. The Princess & Pirate Party has prices starting from £12.50 (min 10 children), while Baby & Toddler Parties are held in the Baby & Toddler area.

Testimonial:



To find out more or to book your





for Mum & Dad! Provide food on request

good cake too ;) Liz Sullivan

enquiries@bedfordkiln.co.uk www.bedfordkiln.co.uk

E:playhouse@bodyflight.co.uk W:www.bodyflight.co.uk/playhouse 

Jungle Jims Playland!

Get ready for some ROARING fun at a Jungle Jim’s Party!

We have many different party packages available, all held in themed party rooms including the Bamboo Treehouse and Tiki Party Room. You can choose The Jungle Party, The Jungle Boogie, The Conga Karaoke, Princess & Pirates and the Jungle Sports Parties. Let us take care of the fun, food & cleaning up!

Opposite the Market Square Ampthill

(Free parking in Waitrose) Contact: Tel: 0845 200 2960 Contact: 01767 682808 Playhouse Bedford, Twinwoods Business Park, Thurleigh Road, Milton Ernest, Jungle Jims Playland, 5 Tyne Road, Sandy SG19 1SA Your LOCAL Independent Toy Shop.

MK44 1FD E: info@junglejimsplayland.co.uk W: www.junglejimsplayland.co.uk

E:playhouse@bodyflight.co.uk W:www.bodyflight.co.uk/playhouse Jungle Jims Playland!

Get ready for some ROARING fun at a Jungle Jim’s Party!

We have many different party packages available, all held in themed party rooms including the Bamboo Treehouse and Tiki Party Room. You can choose The Jungle Party, The Jungle Boogie, The Conga Karaoke, Princess & Pirates and the Jungle Sports Parties. Let us take care of the fun, food & cleaning up!

Seeing is believing.

B-Friend

in the shop or

BOOK a PARTY POTTERY PARTIES At a venue of your choice We have MORE than you can imagine

Main Stockist of

The Kiln At The Kiln we host a number of different children's birthday parties, all creative and fun. We have a bright and colourful area where children Facebook: can sit and chat Fairies n Frogs Toy Shop Ampthill Toys@fairiesnfrogs.co.uk Email party with their friends whilst creating Telephone: 840271 their own01525 masterpiece.

With your very own party host we ensure a stress free time for Mum and Dad!

Contact: 01767 682808 Jungle Jims Playland, 5 Tyne Road, Sandy SG19 1SA E: info@junglejimsplayland.co.uk W: www.junglejimsplayland.co.uk

Contact: 01234 216799 The Kiln, 87 High Street, Bedford E: enquiries@bedfordkiln.co.uk W: www.bedfordkiln.co.uk

POTTERY PARTIES

VENUES FOR HIRE

The Kiln At The Kiln we host a number of different children's birthday parties, all creative and fun. We have a bright and colourful party area where children can sit and chat with their friends whilst creating their own masterpiece.

With your very own party host we ensure a stress free time for Mum and Dad!

Grove Theatre The Grove Theatre has a number of spaces available for children’s parties. Packages can be tailor made to suit your event and can include room hire, decorations, buffet, children’s entertainer, party bags and a birthday cake. Your party can also be combined with one of our shows or film screenings to make it that bit more unique!

Contact: 01234 216799 The Kiln, 87 High Street, Bedford E: enquiries@bedfordkiln.co.uk W: www.bedfordkiln.co.uk

Contact: 01582 884 181 Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable E: grovetheatre@leisureconnection.co.uk W: www.grovetheatre.co.uk

VENUES FOR HIRE Grove Theatre 10 The May/June 2014 www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk Grove Theatre has a number of spaces available for children’s parties. Packages can be tailor made to suit

Competitions

Win Sewing School 2: Lessons in Machine Sewing by Amie Petronis Plumley & Andria Lisle

a tour of Jordans Mill and entry to the Mill Garden for four people!

Win

a Playhouse Party!

The new Mill Garden and Mill Meadow are now open at Jordans Mill and visitors are invited to discover Bedfordshire’s rich heritage of food production. Here, children can learn the origins of some of the food they eat and see the produce growing that would have once been taken by train to London’s Covent Garden.

The family behind the Jordans Cereals brand restored and preserved the mill that has been under their stewardship for more than 150 years.

The Mill was revolutionary for its time and is a great example of the Victorian technology in action. During the tour you will be able to see the mill machinery running, as well as interactive interpretations that tell the mill’s story.

A brand new visitor centre sits alongside the Mill, which houses the Riverside Café and shop, and serves freshly-made, locally-sourced food.

20 fabulous projects for children to make using a sewing machine Book reviewed by By Jan Deykin We loved the first Sewing School book and this is even better. It should really be compulsory with every sewing machine bought, whether for a child or not! There is a comprehensive introduction to how to use a sewing machine which is clearly and simply written for all to understand and illustrated with plenty of colour photographs. General advice on stitches, fabric and using patterns are also covered plus a section on hand sewing and what to do when mistakes are made.

Then there are 20 projects which are pitched at different levels of confidence/ability and split into 4 sections: In my room, Let's go, Time to play; and The great outdoors. We particularly liked the water bottle holder, sleepy bear and zippy pouch. At the back of the book is a folder of paper pattern pieces that are used as templates.

With Families Bedfordshire magazine you can now win tickets for four people to not only see the new gardens, but also for a guided tour of the historic Mill. To win just answer the following question correctly.

How long has Jordans Mill been under the stewardship of the family behind Jordans Cereal? a) More than 50 years b) More than 100 years c) More than 150 years Enter online by Monday 9 June 2014 at: www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk/competitions Terms & Conditions: The winner of the Families Bedfordshire magazine Jordans Mill competition will be entitled to a guided tour of the Flour Mill for four people and entry into the Mill Gardens, which must be booked in advance by the winner on tel: 01767 603940. Four tours of the Mill take place daily. Once the competition has closed, the winner will be announced and will be issued with a voucher, which must be surrendered upon redemption and retained by Jordans Mill. This voucher can only be used once and is valid for 12 months. Photocopies will not be accepted. The prize is subject to availability and no alternatives will be supplied. Jordans Mill is open daily from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm, excluding 25th and 26th December and 1st January.

The Playhouse (www.bodyflight.co.uk/playhouse) is Bedford's newest indoor soft play-centre for children aged up to 11 years old.

The Playhouse is open daily from 9am-6pm, and is situated on the Twinwoods Business Park. It offers a brand new soft play, alongside a baby and toddler area and Cafe, plus free parking and wi-fi!

And now, in conjunction with Families Bedfordshire magazine, the Playhouse Bedford is offering one lucky reader the chance to win a Playhouse Party for up to 10 children.

The Playhouse Party includes 90 minutes of play, plus 30 minutes in the party room and a hot party buffet with unlimited squash!

To be in with a chance of winning, all you have to do is answer the following question correctly.

How many of minutes of play does a Playhouse party include?

a) 30 minutes b) 60 minutes c) 90 minutes Enter online by Monday 9 June 2014 at:

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk/competitions

What is so great about the book is that the directions are so easy to follow that many children would need very little supervision which in turn would increase their confidence and sense of achievement. It is colourful, packed with colour photographs and the spiral binding makes it easy to have opened on a table. With all the interest in sewing (at least in my house!) after the Sewing Bee on television recently this would be a great way to take the enthusiasm forward. I'm not brilliant at sewing but my eleven year old daughter loves it and we gave it a Families rating of 6 out of 6.

Sewing School 2 by Amie Petronis Plumley & Andria Lisle with photography by Justin Fox Burns. Published by Storey, RRP £12.99 hardback, ISBN 978-1612120492

To advertise: 01727 373929

May/June 2014

11

How to burn kids’ energy

How to burn kids’ energy

by Joanna Parry

T

he long summer holidays are approaching and, if your kids are anything like mine, after just an hour indoors they’ll be climbing the walls. But don’t despair! There are so many things to do over the holidays, from play centres to sports clubs to creating your own fun, and many of them are free! Check out our guide to burning off some of your kids’ energy.

Why not try a summer club, class or activity? From cricket to tennis, football to drama, athletics to trampolining or even dry slope skiing, there are hundreds around. Many clubs and classes offer free trials over the summer break – why not try one, and then book an ongoing class for September?

Visit a museum. From the British Museum to the V&A in London, museums offer a huge range of activities during the summer holidays, almost all of which are free. Museums don’t have to be quiet or sedentary activities – most of them run children’s workshops throughout the holidays, some of which can be very energetic! Visit the Higgins Museum in Bedford, Wardown Park or Stockwood Discovery Centre in Luton, or further afield go for treasure hunts in the Geffrye Museum gardens, go on an expedition at the Horniman Museum, explore army life at the National Army Museum, and much much more…

Don’t forget the park. Acres of room to run around in, trees to climb and most with children’s playgrounds. Best of all, they are free!

If the weather is not so great why not try an indoor swimming pool or go-karting or even ice skating?

Make up your own games! It’s creative, you’ll have great fun with your kids, and it’s completely free. Organise a treasure hunt in the park, have a trampolining competition in the garden or set up an obstacle course, invite some friends over and give them a scavenger hunt to get stuck into. Go geocaching (similar to a treasure hunt, where you use a GPS to find a hidden treasure), divide your brood into two teams and start a water fight, fly a kite, pitch a tent and fill the paddling pool, or run your own Sports Day. If it’s bucketing down there’s still plenty of fun to be had (and energy to be expended) indoors. Have a Games Day and challenge your kids to get through a number of board games or table tennis sessions in a day. Make dens or castles out of cardboard boxes, then decorate them. Have a disco – all you need is your best dancing queen outfit and an iPod. Treasure hunts can be just as fun indoors as out, or you can even get the kids running up and down the stairs if you’re really stuck! Make a movie or build a den or just put on the wellies and waterproofs and go splashing about in the rain.

The real trick to have peace, bizarrely, is to have MORE children at your place. They are more likely to engage in games and run around than if they are with you only!

Or the lido… Often inexpensive, lidos, such as the one at Woburn, can make a great day out when the sun is shining. Many parks also have paddling pools too.

Opening May 2014: Harpers Food, Half Moon Lane Pepperstock, Near Slip End, Beds. LU1 4LL.

• Food Hall • Coffee Shop • • Function & Events Room • Large Car Park • Receive forward notice of our Grand Opening Days via our email newsletter: info@harpersfood.co.uk with Grand Opening in subject field Follow us on Twitter: @harpersfood Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/HarpersFood

12

May/June 2014

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

To advertise: 01727 373929

May/June 2014

13

What’s On Please always phone before setting out in case Dawn Chorus for Late Risers – a Bird Walk details have changed since press deadline or if we Saturday 10 May, 7am-10am got it wrong.

Marston Vale Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine, Bedford Please send events to be listed to: Wrap up warm and wear something waterproof on editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk. your feet. Some steep slopes and rough ground.

Walking only perhaps 3 miles but that’s very dependent on the birds. Meet at Forest Centre May Reception. £3 adult. £1 reduction for children, concessions, Saturday Selection Volunteers and Members.

Every Saturday until 31 May, Booking essential. Tel: 01234 767037.

11am – 1pm & 2pm – 4pm Wardown Park Museum, Old Bedford Road, Luton Charlie and Lola Story Morning Get up close and hands on with a range of weird Saturday 10 May, 11-12 noon and wonderful objects from Luton’s Museums’ Barton Library collections. Artefacts will be brought out of storage Join in for fabulous Charlie and Lola fun! and visitors will be invited to discover their importance.

Stotfold Mill Steam Fair & County Show Saturday 10-Sunday 11 May, 10.30am-5pm Visions of the Universe Stotfold Mill, Mill Lane, Stotfold Until Sunday 8 June Steam fair and free entrance to the Mill. Plus, free Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road, Luton kids' zone.

This dazzling collection of images featuring stars, Tickets and more info: planets and galaxies have been gathered from www.stotfoldmill.com/steam-fair NASA, the Russian space programme, the European Southern Observatory as well as the Season Premiere Airshow best entries from Astronomy Photographer of the Sunday 11 May, gates open at 9am.

Year. Free Flying from 2pm.

Shuttleworth Collection, Shuttleworth (Old Warden) Dawn Chorus Bird Walk & Breakfast Aerodrome, nr Biggleswade Saturday 3 May 4.30am to 7.30am Tickets: adults £20; children free.

Marston Vale Forest Centre, Station Road, www.shuttleworth.org Marston Moretaine, Bedford Wrap up warm – it’s usually pretty cold – and wear Hoo’s Kids Book Fest something waterproof on your feet.

Sunday 11 May, all day Cost £9 per adult; £6 per child Luton Hoo Walled Garden (includes breakfast).

Discover a world of books in a magical garden, as Must pre-book. Tel: 01234 767037. famous children’s authors and illustrators talk to children.

Aeromodellers – Mayfly More info: www.hoosbookfest.org.uk Saturday 3-Sunday 4 May Shuttleworth Collection, Shuttleworth Pamper/Shopping Evening (Old Warden) Aerodrome, nr Biggleswade Friday 16 May, 7.30pm More info: www.shuttleworth.org Flitwick Lower School, Temple Way, Flitwick Pampering and beauty treatments and shopping.

Georgian Games Galore!

BYO drinks.

Saturday 3 May - Monday 5 May, 10am – 6pm £5 entrance fee. Pre-book or more info: Wrest Park, Silsoe tel: Debbie on 07752 390 829 From battledores to shuttlecocks, quoits to croquet, play like a Georgian as you step back in time.

The Best Picture Book More info: www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrest Saturday 17 May, 11 – 11.45am, Stopsley Library Saturday 17 May, 2.15 – 3pm, Luton Central library The Best Picture Book Which picture book will get your families vote as Saturday 3 May, 11 – 11.45pm, Stopsley Library the best of 2014?

Saturday 3 May, 2.15 – 3pm, Luton Central Library 4+ years. Free Saturday 10 May. 11 – 11.45am, Leagrave Library Saturday 10 May, 2.15 – 3pm, Marsh Farm Library Around the World Day Which is the best picture book published in 2013? Saturday 17 May, 10-4pm Join other families to share the shortlisted books Priory House Garden, Priory House, Dunstable and fun activities. 4+ years. Free Dance, music and entertainment with an 'around the world' theme.

International Dawn Chorus Day Walk More info: www.dunstable.gov.uk Sunday 4 May, 4.30am-9.45am Dunstable Downs, Chiltern Gateway Centre, Butterfly Walk Dunstable Saturday 17 May, 11am & Saturday 24 May, 11am All tickets £2.

Dunstable Downs, Chiltern Gateway Centre, More info: 01582 500920 Dunstable All tickets £2. More info: tel 01582 500920 Little Howard's Big Show for Kids Monday 5 May, 1.30pm & 4pm Charlie and Lola’s Extremely New Play Bedford Theatre, De Parys Avenue, Bedford Friday 23 May 4.30pm & Saturday 24 May 11am, Live interactive animation!

1.30pm & 4pm More info www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable Brand new Charlie and Lola show about The Best Humourous Book friendships and adventures.

Tuesday 6 May, 3.45 – 4.45pm, More info: www.grovetheatre.co.uk Luton Central Library Wednesday 7 May, 3.45 – 4.45pm, Lewsey Library Sylvanian Families Meet and Greet Tuesday 20 May, 3.45 – 4.45pm, Saturday 24 May, 11am-4pm Luton Central Library Mead Open Farm, Stanbridge Road, Billington Wednesday 21 May, 3.45 – 4.45pm, Freya the Rabbit from Sylvanian Families will be Lewsey Library making a special visit to Mead Open Farm!

What is the funniest children’s book of 2013?

More info: www.meadopenfarm.co.uk or 6+ years. Free call 01525 852 954.

14

May/June 2014

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

Half Term Butterfly Competition Saturday 24 May to Tuesday 3 June (all day) Barton Library Come along and design a butterfly - then see them displayed in the library.

There will be a prize for the best butterfly.

Journey to the Red Planet Saturday 24 May, 11 – 11.45am, Leagrave Library Saturday 24 May, 2.15 – 3pm, Marsh Farm Library Saturday 31 May, 11 - 11.45, Stopsley Library Saturday 31 May, 2.15 – 3pm, Luton Central Library Space fact and fiction as we imagine a journey to Mars and beyond.

3+ years. Free International Kite Festival Saturday 24-Sunday 25 May, 10-6pm (5pm on Sunday) Russell Park, Bedford More info: www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk/outdoorevents/ Jay Jay The Partyman Saturday 24 May-Sunday 1 June Mead Open Farm, Stanbridge Road, Billington Expect lots of games, high energy fun and crazy dancing and more with children’s entertainer Jay Jay The Partyman!

More info: www.meadopenfarm.co.uk or tel:01525 852 954.

Classic Evening Airshow Saturday 24 May, gates open 11am. Flying starts at 6.30pm Shuttleworth Collection, Shuttleworth (Old Warden) Aerodrome, nr Biggleswade Tickets: adults £15; children free. www.shuttleworth.org Luton Carnival Sunday 25 May, 12pm-6pm Takes place in Luton Town Centre. Parade leaves Wardown Park at 12 noon.

Spectacular colourful costumes, music from around the globe, street entertainers and international food to tickle your taste buds. Free.

Battle of the Bands Competition Monday 26 May Russell Park, Bedford More info: www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk/outdoorevents/ Groovy Grasshoppers & Crafty Crickets Tuesday 27 May, 10am, 11am, 1pm & 2pm Forest of Marston Vale, Forest Centre, Station Road, Bedford Make a model of these amazing minibeasts. Find out about the life cycle of grasshoppers and crickets For children 4-10 years.

Advance booking and payment of £2.50 per child essential. Tel: 01234 767037 Half term kids’ workshops Tuesday 27 May & Thursday 29 May Jordans Mill, Holme Mills, Langford Road, Nr Broom Booking: 01767 603940.

We’re Off to Look for Aliens Tuesday 27 May, 6 – 6.30pm, Stopsley Library Wednesday 28 May, 5.15 – 5.45pm, Bury Park Library Thursday 29 May, 6 – 6.30pm, Leagrave Library Bedtime stories for young children and their families, including Colin McNaughton’s space-fairing dad.

6+ years

Wrest at War Sunday 25 May - Monday 26 May, 10am – 6pm Wrest Park, Silsoe Get ready to take cover as this explosive action packed weekend propels you into wartime Britain.

More info: www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrest Pirates Family Event Tuesday 27 May, 11-12 noon Kempston Library Come dressed as a pirate and take part in pirate themed activities.

Carnival Headdress Workshop Tuesday 27 May, 10am – 12pm, Wardown Park Museum Friday 30 May, 10am – 12pm, Stockwood Discovery Centre Learn how to make a beautiful carnival headdress with carnival artist Janet Skepple.

7 – 10 years. £5

My Hero at Rhyme Time Tuesday 10 June, 9.30 – 10am,Leagrave Library Tuesday 10 June, 10 – 10.30am, Luton Central Library Tuesday 10 June, 11 – 11.30am, Luton Central Library Tuesday 10 June, 2.15 – 2.45pm, Marsh Farm Library Wednesday 11 June, 9.30 – 10am, Stopsley Library Wednesday 11 June, 9.30 – 10am, Leagrave Library Wednesday 11 June, 10.30-11am, Leagrave Library Wednesday 11 June, 2.15 – 2.45pm, Lewsey Library Thursday 12 June, 11 – 11.30am, Marsh Farm Library Thursday 12 June, 2.15 – 2.45pm, Stopsley Library Celebrating children’s heroes at our regular Rhyme Times, from Super Daisy to super grandparents.

4+ years. Free

2 hour walk to look for creatures that call Whipsnade Downs home.

All tickets £2. More info: 01582 500920, Summer Symphonia Saturday 21 June, doors open 7.30pm for 8pm start Marston Vale Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine, Bedford Celebrate the summer solstice this year with the fantastic Symphonia Academica. £12/ £10 concessions (under 16, disabled, friends/volunteers).

More info or to book: 01234 767037.

Dunstable Live Saturday 21 June, 3pm-8pm Grove House Gardens, Grove House, Dunstable Live music event. This year's theme is 'America's greats'!

More info: www.dunstable.gov.uk

Just For Kids - Soldiers School Family Fun Time Tuesday 27 May – Friday 30 May, 10am – 6pm Saturday 21 June, 11 – 11.45am, Leagrave Library Wrest Park, Silsoe Saturday 21 June, 2.15 – 3pm, Marsh Farm Library Discover Wrest Park’s secret wartime past with this 4+ years. Free My Hero at Bedtime hands on experience of soldiers on the front line.

Tuesday 10 June, 5.15 – 5.45pm, Marsh Farm More info: www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrest Family Fun Day Summer Fair Library Saturday 28 June, 1pm-4pm Wednesday 11 June, 5.15 – 5.45pm Lewsey Wands in the Willows Edith Cavell Lower School Manton Lane Bedford Library Friday 30 May, 10am, 11.30am & 1.30pm MK41 7NH Thursday 12 June, 6 – 6.30pm, Luton Central Forest of Marston Vale, Forest Centre, Station BBQ, international food stall, Face painting, games, Library Road, Marston Moretaine, Bedford cake stall, tombola & more!

Find out what butterflies you could see in the park Bedtime stories for young children and their families about the heroes, both super and familiar. More info: email susanwest73@gmail.com or tel: and make a butterfly headdress or hat.

07864 966210 3+ years. Free £3.50 per child. Tel. 01234 767037 or anna.charles@marstonvale to book.

Mythical Maze: Arts Award Discover Theatre Flitwick Carnival Space Saturday 14 June, 12 noon-7pm Charity Golf Day Saturday 28 June, 11 – 11.45am, Stopsley Library The Millennium Park, Dunstable Road, Flitwick Friday 30 May Saturday 28 June, 2.15 – 3pm, Luton Central The parade starts at 11.15am from the Rufus Mowsbury Golf Course, Bedford Library Centre. More info tel: 01525 631900.

Organised by the SS Philip & James Golf Society Saturday 5 July, 11 – 11.45am, Leagrave Library in aid of the Bedford & District Cerebral Palsy Saturday 5 July, 2.15 – 3pm, Marsh Farm Library Chilli Festival Society & Bedford Foodbank.

Find out how you can take part in Arts Award Saturday 14 June, 11am More info: Mike Chappell tel. 07973 703340 or Discover this summer and get creative with a Dunstable Downs, Chiltern Gateway Centre, email mikechappell43@btinternet.com Minotaur Mosiac. 7+ years. £2 DunstableFree event . More info: 01582 500920 June Airshow featuring the Light Aircraft Association Macmillan Cycletta The National Big Lunch Sunday 29 June Sunday 15 June, gates open 9am.

Sunday 1 June Woburn Abbey Flying from 2pm.

The High Street, Leighton Buzzard Shuttleworth Collection, Shuttleworth (Old Warden) Women only run, bike or scoot! Plus, mini fun The Big Lunch with a Wild West theme! triathlon for 4-8 year olds.

Aerodrome, nr Biggleswade More info: http://www.leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk/ More info: www.humanrace.co.uk More info: www.shuttleworth.org and www.thebiglunch.com Harpers Food Grand Opening Friday 6-Sunday 8 June Half Moon Lane, Pepperstock, Near Slip End, LU1 4LL Tastings, vouchers and lots of lovely food!

More info: www.harpersfood.co.uk Dunstable Classic Motor Rally Saturday 7 June, 10-4pm Priory Gardens, Dunstable Vintage cars & bikes!

More info: www.dunstable.gov.uk Superheroes Saturday 7 June, 11 – 11.45am, Leagrave Library Saturday 7 June, 2.15 – 3pm, Marsh Farm Library Saturday 14 June, 11 – 11.45am, Stopsley Library Saturday 14 June, 2.15 – 3pm, Luton Central Library From Marvel to Super Duck, celebrating comic and picture book heroes.

4+ years The beach comes to Leighton Buzzard!

Saturday 7 June-Sunday 7 September Parsons Close, Leighton Buzzard Entertainment. Food stalls, sports activities and music on Saturday 7 June to kick off the beach!

More info: http://www.leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk/

Father's Day Fun & Games Sunday 15 June, 10am – 6pm Wrest Park, Silsoe, Luton Experience the ultimate challenge in garden games.

More info: www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrest

Band Concerts Sunday 29 June, 6, 13, 27 from 3pm-4.45 pm Grove House Gardens, Grove House, Dunstable More info: www.dunstable.gov.uk

Military Pageant Airshow Sunday 29 June, gates open at 9am.

Flying from 2pm.

Father's Day Lunch Shuttleworth Collection, Shuttleworth (Old Warden) Sunday 15 June Aerodrome, nr Biggleswade Jordans Mill, Holme Mills,Langford Road, Nr Broom Say thanks to dad this Father’s Day with To tie in with Armed Forces Day Tickets: adults £20; children free. a Holme cooked lunch! www.shuttleworth.org Advance bookings receive free entry to the Mill for dads.

Booking: 01767 603940 Concert by Trio D'Art Friday 20 June, 7pm Beechwood Park School, Markyate For tickets £15 & £10 (under 18s and full time students), please email l.peck@beechwoodpark.herts.sch.uk, tel: 01582 840333 ext. 4 or book online on www.wegottickets.com.

Orchid and nature walk Saturday 21 June, 11am Dunstable Downs Chiltern Gateway Centre, Dunstable

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk t: 01727 373929

To advertise: 01727 373929

May/June 2014

15