Families Cheshire Issue 28 Mar-Apr 2014

Edition 28 • Mar/Apr 2014

The local magazine for families with children 0-12 years www.familiescheshire.co.uk

@FamCheshMag facebook.com/familiescheshire

FREE

ÂŽ

In this issue > Clubs & Classes Directory > Coughs & colds in children > Chocolatey fun - Easter Egg hunts

Covering: Poynton, Wilmslow, Alderley Edge, Knutsford, Prestbury, Macclesfield, Congleton, Holmes Chapel, Sandbach, Northwich, Winsford, Crewe, Nantwich, Tarporley, Waverton, Chester and surrounding areas

Welcome/News In this issue 02: Welcome/News 04: Clubs & Classes 07: Education 11: Parents’ place 16: Holiday Fun 20: What’s on

World Book Day

Wear A Hat Day

This year’s World Book Day hits the shelves on 6 March, and they need your help! Which books have changed your life? Which books thrill you, scare you, make you laugh?

Which books do your children devour again and again? Nominate your favourites now at www.worldbookday.com. World Book Day is the biggest celebration of books anywhere, with millions and millions of book tokens given out, great free books for kids plus events taking place in schools, libraries and bookshops. Don’t miss out – register online to keep up to date with the exciting Big Booky Events and to get your free books.

March is national Brain Tumour Awareness Month, so remember to support Wear A Hat Day on Friday 28 March in aid of Brain Tumour Research.

Brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of both children and adults under 40, yet the science is underfunded, receiving less than 1% of national cancer research spend.

Join thousands of families across the country in wearing hats of all shapes, sizes and colours and get involved in an amazing array of fun and inventive events, making and collecting donations to raise awareness and funds for research.

Register today for your Wear A Hat Day event: 01296 733011 / www.wearahatday.org

Hello!

Roll on Easter! As confirmed chocoholics, this just has to be our favourite time of year. Not only are the days getting longer, but the countdown to having a legitimate chocolate stash in the house has begun!

Before that though, we will be welcoming Mother’s Day, which will hopefully also yield a good hoard of quality chocolate boxes, none of which we technically have to share with our offspring.

And to lift our spirits even more, it appears that spring has finally sprung, with pretty much the only sign of snow this year being the snowdrops that are starting to emerge. But here’s hoping we can avoid April showers – honestly, enough is enough!

See you in May.

Caryl Hall

Jayne Keep

Next issue: May/June 2014

Design: Paul Wilson Graphic Design, Congleton.

Tel: 07743 111 694, www.withpaul.co.uk

Circulation: 26,000 copies of Families Cheshire are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected shops and other points throughout Cheshire. If you would like free copies for your organisation, please let us know.

Contact details: Families Cheshire, 3 Hall Hill, Bollington SK10 5ED Tel: 01625 801 801 www.familiescheshire.co.uk Editorial: editor@familiescheshire.co.uk Advertising/artwork: advertising@familiescheshire.co.uk Events, diary dates, what’s on: events@familiescheshire.co.uk Cover photograph by: Lumi Studios, Macclesfield 01625 502548 / www.lumistudios.co.uk

Print: Bishops Printers, Walton Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO6 1TR Tel: 023 9233 4900 www.bishops.co.uk Families Cheshire is part of the Families group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license.

We take every care preparing the magazine, but the publishers and distributors can’t be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences. @FamCheshMag facebook.com/familiescheshire

Fasten your seatbelts for new ride at Drayton Manor Theme Park

Fasten your seatbelts and prepare for take-off as a brand new thrill ride begins its descent into Drayton Manor Theme Park, Tamworth for 2014.

Air Race will take riders on a stomach-churning aerial adventure, turning their world upside down at a height of up to eight metres.

Accommodating up to 24 riders at one

time in six, four-seater aeroplanes, ‘pilots’ will experience accelerations of almost 4G when they board the acrobatic aeroplane flight. With banks, loops, dives and weightlessness to test even the most experienced thrill seekers, it promises to be the flight of your life.

Drayton Manor Theme Park is also home to Europe’s only Thomas Land™ attraction, which is home to 21 rides and attractions based on the ever popular Thomas & Friends™ series.

Reduced prices are available for tickets bought in advance.

0844 472 1960 / www.draytonmanor.co.uk

2 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

Get your Silly Socks on for The Joshua Tree Charity The Joshua Tree Charity Annual Family Fun Run (2.5km) and 5km Race will be held on Saturday 26 April this year, in the beautiful surroundings of Marbury Park, Comberbach, Northwich.

Both courses are closed to traffic, and are buggy and wheelchair friendly being mainly over the main pathways of the Park.

Walk, stroll or run the 2.5km course with/without your dog on a leash, your kids in/out of buggies etc. It’s open to all ages and abilities and is designed as a fun event for families. Under 7s can enter free of charge and there are substantial discounts for pre-booked entries for individuals, families and groups.

Make a day of it by bringing a picnic to enjoy in the Park amidst the beautiful scenery overlooking the Mere, in the Woodland and Parkland, or in the fabulous children’s play areas. There will be goody bags for all pre-entries, medals for all finishers, trophies for the

race winners and spot prizes and winners trophies for costumes.

The 5km race is open to all ages to run or walk, with trophies for U16’s, 16+, men and women, first and second places, again with pre-race day registration discounts. It’s a friendly race, professionally run by Vale Royal Athletics Club, so the course and time can be taken seriously too.

Registration and number collection starts from 10 am, with warm ups before both races by Theresa Bateman of FabbFitness who will also be running cool downs after the runs. Early arrival is recommended due to pressure of numbers. 01606 331858 / www.thejoshuatree.org.uk

News The Big Pedal is back

Chester mums deserve a break!

©J Bewley/Sustrans

Children’s TV presenter Barney Harwood is challenging kids, parents and teachers across the UK to leave their cars at home and get on their bikes and scooters for the school run.

The Big Pedal (March 3rd – 14th), is an inter-school cycling and scooting competition which aims to get children active.

Barney said: “I’m supporting The Big Pedal because I want to show parents that cycling and scooting to school is fun, cheap, and it keeps kids healthy too. Taking part is easy, and it’s a great way for parents to incorporate a little exercise into their children’s daily routine.”

Newton Primary School near Chester has been taking part in the Big Pedal for four years and is a shining example of what the Big Pedal aims to achieve. The school actively encourages the children to cycle more and has worked its way

up through the Sustrans School Mark Award Scheme achieving its Gold Award last year.

Teaching Assistant Jane Fisher says: “For me one of the highlights of the Big Pedal is that it gets everyone working together and motivated. It’s a great opportunity for parents to get involved and support the children in their efforts. The reduction in traffic outside our school during the competition was really noticeable.”

Eight year old Daisy Guinness is Newton Primary’s only monocyclist.

She had her first unicycle at five years old and regularly makes the journey to school in this unusual way.

Over 1,000 schools have already signed up to take part this year (76 of them in the North West) and there’s still time to get your school involved. Go to www.bigpedal.org.uk for more info.

Real Nappy Week 2014

Being a mum is rewarding but also a lot of hard work! So it’s no wonder that many mums across the country look forward to a little pampering on Mother’s Day. While breakfast in bed and the odd handmade card is lovely, what mums really need is a break from their little darlings! So on Saturday 29 March, in honour of Mother’s Day on Sunday, 30 March, Razzamataz Chester will entertain your little ones while you have a few precious hours to yourself.

Razzamataz Chester is part of the Dragons’ Den backed part-time theatre school business that won an investment from Duncan Bannatyne. With schools across the country, the Chester branch is run every Saturday 9am – 1pm at Northgate Arena, Victoria Road and will be offering a FREE session at this time to children and young people who would like to try out the classes in dance, drama and singing. The offer is on a first come first served basis, so

apply early to register your interest.

As one of the fastest growing part-time theatre schools in the UK, Razzamataz offers a wide range of performing arts styles for children age 4-18 including current trends that are accessible to children and teenagers.

Razzamataz classes consist of dance, drama and singing and the curriculum covers the whole of the performing arts, from classic West End musical theatre to street dance and pop singing.

“We’re really looking forward to giving the hard working mums of Chester a break, while their children have fun with us,” says Claire, Principal of Razzamataz Chester. “We very much hope that mums will take the opportunity to have a relaxing, pampering few hours off or just simply get to sit down and enjoy a cup of tea in peace and quiet!”

To book a FREE Mother’s Day session email chester@razzamataz.co.uk or call 01244 470104. Alternatively visit www.razzamataz.co.uk

Save the date for Real Nappy Week! Taking place 28 April – 4 May this year, Real Nappy Week is all about celebrating reusables – for those who are already converted to cloth and those not yet tempted.

Get involved in nationwide events, competitions and a whole lot more - there are loads of events where you can meet people who use real nappies, get great advice as well as get your hands on nappies to see how they work.

Choosing the right nappy can be an important decision for new parents, and real nappies are now more popular than ever. They can save you upwards of £500 per child (more if you use your nappies on a second child), are better for the environment, save on waste to landfill, are comfortable for your baby and, best of all, are super stylish. Available in a choice of fabrics including cotton, bamboo, microfibre and fleece, and in a choice of styles for different occasions, they also come in a range of patterns, designs and colours. You can even buy bespoke! www.goreal.org.uk/real-nappy-week

Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk 3

Clubs & classes BABIES

Baby Massage Time Group or 1:1 courses in your own home or venues in and around Cheadle and Poynton. 07738 564666 / www.babymassagetime.com Baby Massage Works Course in Knutsford.

1:1 sessions available: Katie: 07973 540072 / www.babymassageworks.co.uk Baby Sensory Sensory development activities for babies. Wilmslow, Macclesfield, Romiley & Bramhall – Becky: 07503 547083 Warrington & Lymm – Laura 07946 672035 Congleton, Madeley, Sandbach, Nantwich Vicky/Jane: 07972 105966 Chester & The Wirral – Steph: 07814 941 048 Cheadle & Stockport: Lindsay - 07590 916004 www.babysensory.co.uk

Jolly Jacks, Bollington Multi-sensory activity classes suitable from 3 months to three years. Each week has a topical theme providing various sensory and messy play opportunities, promoting babies development through natural and instinctive exploration in a safe environment. Jolly Jacks also do Birthday parties and School Holiday Family Fun classes for older siblings to join in the fun. For more information contact Aymi on 07958 807 573 or www.jollyjacks.org.

Hullabaloo Kids Baby Signing Classes in mid Cheshire. Sharon: 07973 479471 / www.nantwichmumpreneur-hullabalookids. blogspot.co.uk MamaBabyBliss Baby Yoga & Baby Massage Wilmslow & Macclesfield - Katie: 07540 378428 Chester & surrounds - Sam: 07717 194402 www.mamababybliss.com Mo Ferrie Baby Massage Classes in Chester & Wrexham. 07765 905389 / www.moferrie.co.uk My Babytime A range of classes for babies, developmental play sessions and parties in Congleton, Holmes Chapel and Nantwich.

Charlotte: 07590 025253 / www.mybabytime.co.uk Rosie Health Baby Massage classes in Wilmslow & Bollington 07961 614882 / www.rosiehealth.com Saffrons Yoga Macclesfield Pregnancy and Baby Yoga – classes and 1:1 sessions available.

01625 432997 / www.saffronsyoga.co.uk Sing and Sign Baby Signing Classes in Chester. Rachel: 01244 372970 / www.singandsign.com TinyTalk Baby signing and singing classes (0-18 months) - see listing under LANGUAGE. Yogababy Mum and Baby Yoga, Kids Yoga and Yoga for the Special Child in mid Cheshire. Jo: 07850 580855 / www.yogababycheshire.co.uk

COOKING

Cookie Tots & Kiddy Cook Hale & Altrincham – Nikki: 07976 619648 www.kiddycook.co.uk KidzKitchen Fun, educational cooking classes and parties for children.

Tracey: 07748 982025 / Gill: 07963 961867 www.kidzkitchengroup.co.uk Speckled Hen Cookery School Child and parent/child cooking classes in Holmes Chapel.

01477 537583 / www.speckled-hen.co.uk

DANCE

Baby Ballet Ballet and Tap for ages 2 - 4 on Tuesdays in Bollington.01625 574774 / www.bollingtonleisure.co.uk Baby Ballet Ballet & tap classes for 18 months - 4 years in Wilmslow & Handforth coming soon. Miss Michelle: 07725 878515 www.babyballet.co.uk Dancingkidz School of Dance Dancingtots, Ballet, Streetdance, Musical Theatre and Zumbatomic classes in Northwich.

Sharon: 07834 612303 / www.dancingtots.co.uk Diddi Dance Funky dance classes for 2-4 year olds.

Chester & Ellesmere Port – Danielle: 07870 664734 Crewe, Nantwich, Middlewich & Holmes Chapel – Sue: 07792 500981 Gatley, Didsbury, Stockport, Bramhall, Poynton & Cheadle – Lisa/Kat: 07966 542985 www.diddidance.com Footloose Dance Academy Ballet, Tap & Freestyle dance classes in Bollington. 07951 054547 / www.footloosedanceacademy.co.uk Hullabaloo Kids Tippy Toes Toddler Dance for walking to 3 years (boys and girls) in mid Cheshire. Sharon: 07973 479471 / www.nantwichmumpreneur-hullabalookids. blogspot.co.uk Northwich Dance Company Classes for adults and children, from beginners to advanced, at various venues across Northwich, covering a variety of dance styles, including Ballroom & Latin, Salsa, Rock ‘n’ Roll and Latin Line dancing. 01606 49050 / www.northwichdancecompany.co.uk Quicksteps Dance Melody Bear dance classes for ages 18 months - 8 yrs in Northwich. Also wide range of dance styles for all ages.

07816 973 600 / 07970 23342 / www.quickstepdance.co.uk Starlight Theatre School Ballet, Tap & Modern Dance Bramhall Anna: 0161 747 4074 / www.starlightschool.co.uk

JJs Sensory Play Centre Multi-sensory play centre in Macclesfield for babies and young children as well as young people and adults with special needs.

01625 667872 / www.jjsplaycentre.co.uk Legoland® Discovery Centre Manchester Over 2 million LEGO bricks under one roof – share the LEGO world of colour, creativity and family entertainment. Indoor rides, miniland, climbing frame, 4D cinema. 0844 844 8181 / www.legolanddiscoverycentre.co.uk Pirates Paradise, Holmes Chapel Sports areas, swing ropes, climbing frames and a toddler area. Good food and comfortable seating for adults and children. Parties available.

01477 549008 / www.piratesplaycentre.co.uk Polar Palace, Winsford Dedicated areas for babies and ages 1 to 5, as well as trikes to ride.

Activity sessions every weekday (term time only).

01606 863623 / www.polarpalace.co.uk The 2 Gyms Playbarn, Winsford Catering for all ages of children and boasting over 3,000 sq feet of play area. 01606 558600 / www.the2gyms-cheshire.co.uk Playfactore, Trafford State of the art giant play frame, interactive toddler play area, Laser Tag arena, electric go karts. 0844 824 6030 / www.playfactore.com Topsy Tumbles, Cheshire West Indoor playground fun for the under 5’s at EPIC Leisure Centre (Ellesmere Port), Frodsham Leisure Centre, Neston Civic Hall, Northgate Arena (Chester), Winsford Lifestyle Centre and Woodford Lodge Sports Centre (Winsford).

Operating all year round with plenty of toys, bikes, push-a-rounds and slides as well as a supervised bouncy castle. Open to all pre-school children accompanied by an adult.

01244 377086 ex 201 / www.brioleisure.org Wacky Warehouse Soft play and activity centre in Congleton, Crewe, Nantwich & Wilmslow.

Arts & Crafts sessions and parties available.

01260 273575 / www.wackywarehouse.co.uk

INDOOR ACTIVITY CENTRES

LANGUAGE

Barnaby’s Playbarn, Northwich A stimulating environment where children can burn off all that energy. Activities for all ages and a special area for under 3’s. A range of party options available too. 01606 301321 / www.barnabys-playbarn.com Fun4All, Chester & Macclesfield A safe and secure environment for ages 0 – 11. Main and toddler/pre-school climbing frames, baby play pen and free–play sports zone. Café for snacks and meals and comfy sofas or tables for grown-ups. Parties also available. www.fun4all.co.uk Funky Town Play Centre, Chester Run, play, and slide on a huge climbing frame filled with ball pits, slides, roller squeezes, rope bridges as well as toddler, disco and sensory zones.

Fully stocked cafe and restaurant facilities.

01244 377229 / www.funkytownplay.co.uk Funsters Safe, indoor play centre in Crewe for children up to age 12. Cafe and comfy seating.

01270 500525 / www.funstersplaycentres.co.uk

4 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

Les Petits Choux French language classes for toddlers in Bollington. Learn through songs, games and rhymes.Contact Kate: 01625 571139 / www.frenchtuitionmacclesfield.co.uk Talking Tots Fun, interactive classes that help pre-school children communicate with confidence.

Cheadle, Wilmslow & Hale - Debbie: 07899 801186 South Manchester & Stockport – Siân: 07794 433179 / www.talkingtots.info TinyTalk Baby signing and singing classes (0-2 years). Your baby has so much to say, so help them tell you! Learn baby signing the fun way with the award winning TinyTalk team through singing nursery rhymes, action songs, storytime AND the all-important extra 30 mins social time. Now TinyTalk Toddler classes (18 months +) continue the fun developing confidence with speech and communication skills through action songs, games and even a parachute!

Northwich & Knutsford – Jenny: 07968 110670 Frodsham, Macclesfield, Wilmslow – Claire: 07771 747755 Congleton & Holmes Chapel — Liz: 07815 106693 / www.tinytalk.co.uk

The Cheshire Mandarin Academy Mandarin classes across Cheshire. 07833 712878 / www.cheshiremandarin.co.uk

MUSIC & SOCIAL

Caterpillar Music Activity sessions for 0 - 4 year olds to encourage learning through music in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. Caterpillar Music parties and nursery sessions also for children from 0 - 4 years. Classes in Wilmslow, Bowdon, Appleton, Lymm, Grappenhall and Cheadle. Free trial class. Jan: 01925 860459 / www.caterpillarmusic.com Jo Jingles Music, singing and movement classes for babies and young children.

North East Cheshire – Laura – 0161 431 0674 South Manchester: Jacqui 01925 269136 Mid Cheshire – Eve: 01928 739966 www.jojingles.com Jabberjacks A learning and fun activity pre-school class which helps develop social and physical skills for children aged between 6 months* and 4 years old. *Please check age range of class. Stimulating and interactive classes in Nurseries and SureStart centres, as well as in many venues in and around Cheshire. Wilmslow, Macclesfield & Knutsford – Sue: 01625 540999 Chester, Northwich & Winsford – Wendy: 07519 238263 Nantwich, Crewe & Sandbach – Rachel: 07501 365537 South Manchester – Nikki: 07587 186284 www.jabberjacks.co.uk Jolly Jacks, Bollington See listing under babies Kindermusik, Chester Music and movement for newborns to age 7.

Call Stephanie 07739 104147 www.kindermusikwithstephanie.co.uk MAD Academy High energy, free spirited Music and Dance classes to babies and children aged 3 months to 5 years. Classes in Alsager & Nantwich. Free taster session.

Kathryn: 01270 876628 / www.madacademy.com Music Bugs Fun, friendly, interactive music classes (and parties) for newborn – 4 years.

Classes in Cheadle, Hulme, Wilmslow, Hale, Sale & Knutsford. 0844 822 1175 / www.musicbugs.co.uk Rhythm Time Early learning through music – for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers.

Chester & surrounds – Julia: 07789 867 589 Mid/ East Cheshire – Francis: 01270 884583 North Cheshire – Jane: 01270 529224 South Manchester – Kimberley: 01625 533510 www.rhythmtime.net

PERFORMING ARTS

Helen O’Grady Drama Academy Stockport & E Cheshire – Kalini: 01625 261000 South & Mid Cheshire – Brian: 01270 765586 www.helenogrady.co.uk

Clubs & classes LIPA 4:19 Affiliated with the prestigious ‘Paul McCartney Fame School LIPA’, LIPA 4:19 Knutsford is a part time Performing Arts Academy offering classes in Acting, Dancing and Singing for Children aged 4 to 19. Their curriculum based classes are split age appropriately, designed to ensure that the student’s journey to proficiency is fun, invigorating and rewarding. Their expert teachers who have all taught and performed professionally within their field, guide students through LIPA’s unique formula developing the skills and confidence that underpin any progression within performing arts. All students have the opportunity to perform in their end of year production and to take exams in all genres. New students receive a FREE trial evening. To book your trial contact Alison & Becci on 07508 808385 or email lipa4-19knutsford@live.co.uk. www.lipa.ac.uk Pyjama Drama Drama, movement, music and play for children up to 7 years across Mid and East Cheshire. Call Emma: 0161 820 2209 www.pyjamadrama.com Razzamataz Affordable performing arts training in Chester which combines Musical Theatre styles with fast and funky Commercial styles.

For ages 4 to 18.

01244 470104 / www.razzamataz.co.uk Rokit Performing Arts Professional training in acting, dancing and singing for young people aged 4 to 18. Based in Knutsford.

01565 654 482 / www.rokitperformingarts.co.uk Stagecoach Theatre Arts School Performing arts for ages 4 – 18.

Altrincham – Marion: 01925 222445 Chester – Karen/Lindsay: 01244 316187 Congleton & Macclesfield – Julie: 01782 777 345 Didsbury – Anne: 0161 789 1349 Northwich – Susan: 01606 45132 Nantwich – Adele: 01782 397866 Stockport – Cathy: 0161 864 3974 Wilmslow – Laura: 01606 620770 www.stagecoach.co.uk Star Tuition/SOS (Star on Sunday) Acting, singing & dancing workshop for ages 5 – 17 every Sunday (term time) in Knutsford, Toby: 07780 850 357 / www.star-tuition.co.uk

SPORTS & ACTIVITIES A-Star Sports A fun-filled multi-sports experience for children aged 2-10 years offering inclusive, developmental coaching in a positive environment. Weekly classes start with a fundamental programme for the little ones and develop into a core of ten sports: basketball, cricket, dodgeball, football, handball hockey, rounders, rugby, tennis and volleyball. They offer 65+ local multi-sports classes, inspiring children to take part in lots of different physical activities and games, discover new sports and build a foundation from which to enjoy sport for life. Parties, holiday clubs and events also available. Contact Sharon or Gary Bassett via T: 07932 182148 / 07796 190169 E: sharon.bassett@a-starsports.co.uk.

W: www.a-starsports.co.uk/local-classes/ chester-surrounding-area F: www.facebook.com/AStarSports.Chester

Beavers, Cubs & Scouts 01925 750 223 / www.cheshirescouts.org.uk Gymbabes/Tumble Tots/Gymbobs Classes to develop children’s physical skills of agility, balance, co-ordination and climbing.

Wilmslow & Macclesfield – Vikki: 07814 020 095 Alsager, Congleton, Holmes Chapel, Crewe & Northwich – Ann: 07810 513 845.

Sale, Knutsford, Didsbury, Hale & Timperley – Jane: 07812 144450 Chester – Jackie: 01244 303127 www.tumbletots.com Little Superstars Unique, fun and active multi sport sessions for children from walking age upwards to develop their fundamentals i.e. balls skills, hand and eye coordination, balance, flexibility and agility.

Children will try out a different sport each week such as basketball, football, rugby, handball & golf, able to run around but in a structured way. Why try one sport when you can do 14 different sports plus an obstacle course?!

Louise: 07904 344552 / www.littlesuperstars.co.uk Pixies Cheerleading Squad Allstar Cheerleading Team in Poynton. Kelli: 07852 903909 / www.pixiescheer.co.uk Playmakers Ball skills, agility and co-ordination for 16 months – 5 years.

Macclesfield/Wilmslow 01625 415151 / www.premierfc.com Rainbows, Brownies & Guides 0800 1 69 59 01 / www.girlguiding.org.uk Rugbytots A fun and enjoyable environment to develop basic core motor skills. Classes are geared towards children aged 2 – 7 years, with all Rugbytots lead coaches being paediatric first aiders, Rugby qualified coaches, CRB checked and trained to a very high standard.

South East Cheshire - Alick: 0845 313 6720 North Cheshire/Greater Manchester - Michele: 0845 313 3255 Mid Cheshire - Olly: 0845 313 6705 Chester/Wirral: 0845 313 3254 www.rugbytots.co.uk Tennis Tykes An educational tennis play and skills programme for children aged 2-5 years old. All classes are run by qualified and trained staff, use specially adapted equipment with personal achievement charts for every child. Classes across South Manchester and Cheshire. Jonny: 07760 254118 / www.tennistykes.co.uk

Football

Diddikicks Football coaching for 18 months - 5 years in Wilmslow, Worsley & Sale 0161 300 4665 / www.diddikicks.co.uk Premier Football Coaching After school clubs across Cheshire East. 01625 415151 / www.premierfc.com The Football Academy Football courses and academies in Mid/East Cheshire.

07738 239287 / www.tfa-thefootballacademy.co.uk Little Kickers At Little Kickers, the focus is on fun, as football is used as a forum to instil a little extra confidence, co-ordination, control and sense of camaraderie. Classes run in four distinct age groups, to maximise involvement and development. Age groups range from just 2 years to 7 years. Classes in Alderley Edge & Knutsford. Fiona: 01625 326177 / www.littlekickers.co.uk Little Sports Coaching Fun football coaching for boys and girls aged. 3 - 5 years in Wilmslow, Sale & Cheadle. 0800 032 1806 / www.littlesportscoaching.co.uk

Horseriding My Little Pony Parties Private lessons and pony trekking for small children aged 3+ on American Miniature Horses. Mum & Dad Toddler morning 10am - 12 noon every other Wednesday. Mini Pony Club every Thurs during school hols. Pony Petting, Activity fun and parties also available. 07832 127433 / www.mylittleponyparties.com Bank Farm Riding School Private, shared, or group lessons for children and adults in Poynton. Parties also available.

01625 872656/ www.bankfarmridingschool.co.uk Mobberley Riding School Lessons for all levels and ages (5+). Group lessons for children on the weekend. 01565 873123 / www.mobberleyridingschool.co.uk Cheshire Riding School Riding lessons in Northwich for children and adults, pony days and parties. 01606 892111 / www.cheshireridingschool.co.uk

Swimming

Brio Swim Swimming classes at Leisure Centres in Chester, Northwich, Winsford, Neston & Ellesmere Port.

01244 377086 ex 201 / www.brioleisure.org Macclesfield Amateur Swimming Club For ages 3 - 93! Non-profit organisation run by dedicated, fully ASA qualified volunteers with many years’ experience.

Tuesday nights 7 - 9pm, Macclesfield Leisure Centre.

01625 617960 / www.maccswim.co.uk Macclesfield Satellites Learn to swim with Satellites swimming lessons! Based at Macclesfield Leisure Centre, we offer swimming lessons on Saturday & Sunday mornings. 10% 2nd child discount available. Emma: 07749 546307 / swimclass@swimsatellite.co.uk / www.swimsatellite.co.uk

Skating

Flowskate 1:1 tutorials or group roller skating tuition. Recreational or extreme skating options available. Leo: 07772 448653 / www.flowskate.co.uk Turtle Tots You are welcome to join a Turtle Tots baby swimming class at any time from when your baby is newborn, until they are 18 months old. At our classes you will learn how to swim with your baby above and below the water and how to teach your baby water confidence and key lifesaving skills. Equally importantly, the baby swimming classes provide the most overwhelming bonding experience!

Classes are held on Mondays in Wrexham, Tuesdays and Sundays in Chester, Wednesdays in Crewe and Fridays in Flint.

Contact Kim on 07793 743678 or kim.wood@turtletots.com / www.turtletots.com Water Babies Specialised swimming courses for babies 0 – 2 years. Mid & East Cheshire – Anna: 01270 611111. Chester, Liverpool & Wirral – Alison: 01925 243643 / www.waterbabies.co.uk

SUPPORT

MOSAIC Children’s Therapy Centre Independent occupational, speech-language, social / emotional / behavioural and play therapy services for children and young people with additional needs. 01606 40195 / www.mosaicchildrenstherapy.co.uk

Kinder Swim Academy Fun and stimulating lessons for birth – 15 years, giving both children and their parents confidence in the water. Kath / Sharon: 07907 263423 / www.kinderswim.co.uk

Explore Learning Maths & English tuition centres for 5-14 year olds. Children become members and attend once or twice a week for sessions that last approximately 1¼ hours.

Every centre is open 7 days a week, no advance booking necessary. Free interactive maths and literacy workshops for 5 – 14 year olds across all the Explore Learning centres on 15 April! Spaces are limited so call your local centre to reserve your place.

Altrincham: 0161 241 0006 Cheadle Hulme: 0161 669 8140 Chester: 01244 343 433 Heaton Park: 0161 669 4839 Warrington: 01925 747123 www.explorelearning.co.uk

Puddle Ducks Fun and friendly swimming classes for babies, toddlers and primary school age children across Cheshire. Join small, structured swimming classes (up to 8 children), at any age from birth to ten, no matter what your child’s experience or ability.

Children develop from splashing and kicking into graceful, efficient swimmers and learn lifesaving and underwater skills.

Mid Cheshire – Jo / Jess: 01477 410080 South Cheshire – Jessica / Emma: 07429 892774 Chester – Kerry: 01829 740825 www.puddleducks.com

Kumon Kumon’s unique programmes complement the school curriculum and provide far more than just maths or English tuition. They cater for your child’s individual needs, allowing them to study at a rate that is just right for them and eventually to take responsibility for their own learning.

Chester North – Janet: 0151 339 0382 Knutsford – Sue: 01565 621142 Macclesfield - Amanda: 01625 267800 Nantwich – Sarah: 01270 780810 Sandbach - Roy 01606 891350 Wilmslow – Ian: 01625 532529 www.kumon.co.uk

Total Fitness Swimming lessons for all ages (including non members) in Altrincham, Chester, Crewe & Wilmslow. Also private lessons and intensive swimming lessons through out the school Holidays. www.totalfitness.co.uk

SEN Voice Advice, representation and support for carers and pupils, aiming to get you the support that’s required, not just what’s being offered. A cost-effective service with a FREE initial consultation. Over forty years experience in SEN appeals and tribunals. www.sen-voice.co.uk / 0161 928 9581

Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk 5

Clubs & classes Advertise in Families Cheshire Call Jayne on: 01625 801801 or email advertising@familiescheshire.co.uk

Musical Fun at TinyTalk Creates Clever Communicators!

For over a decade, TinyTalk’s fun, friendly and award-winning Baby Signing and Singing classes have delighted babies and toddlers.

Their very special mix of songs and rhymes, puppets, books, instruments and social playtime over a drink and biscuit stimulates your baby’s development, is wonderful for you to spend quality time engaging with your little one and is an opportunity to make friends too!

Using simple ‘baby signs’ allows your baby to express their needs and thoughts long before they can talk, cutting out the guesswork for you! Babies are thrilled when they’re understood, from just a few months old, building a very special bond with you, and promoting vital early communication skills.

Tiny Talk is delighted to launch their new classes developed in line with Early Years education, with more exciting activities such as scarves, bubbles, tactile sensory shapes, stretchy lycra and mirrors. Lots of fun while inspiring your child to communicate through signing and then talking!

Why don’t you give your baby a voice with a little helping hand from TinyTalk!

Classes are suitable for Newborn – 2 years. They also have a fantastic Toddler Talk class, 18mth + for those more active Toddlers too. For more information, please see their advert for contact details of your local class or visit www.tinytalk.co.uk to find your nearest TinyTalk or ToddlerTalk class.

Free maths and English activities at Explore Learning Explore Learning centres provide maths, English and 11+ tuition to 5 – 14 year olds of all abilities.

Explore fits easily around family life; the centres are open 7 days a week, with children able to attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis.

On Tuesday 15 April, Explore will be

6 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

hosting a Community Open Day! There will be free interactive maths and literacy workshops for 5 – 14 year olds across all the Explore Learning centres.

Spaces are limited so call your local centre to reserve your place or to book a free trial. www.explorelearning.co.uk.

Education Does splitting school PE lessons damage girls?

Teachers should stop separating boys and girls in school sports because it is fuelling gender prejudice in later life, an academic has warned.

Dr Sian Lawson of Northumbria University believes that PE should be gender-neutral, with girls playing rugby and boys tackling netball. ‘There is no physical reason to view girls as more fragile when given the same level of exercise,’ says Dr Lawson. ‘If we aspire to believe in individual variation over stereotyping, and equality of opportunity, then why not let our children start with that?’ She adds that

the controlled environment of the school playing field is the ‘best opportunity these potential adults have to learn to respect each other’. However Chris McGovern, a former independent school headmaster and chairman of the Campaign for Real Education, says, ‘There are clear physiological differences between boys and girls. It’s possible to mix them in the early primary years but it’s common sense to split them when they get older and you’rve having full-blown tackles in rugby and football because boys are stronger. It’s an absurd idea and will horrify parents.’

Teachers’ pay could skyrocket

A new performance-related system of pay for teachers could see their salaries rise to £70,000 within 5 years of qualifying, according to a report by thinktank Policy Exchange.

Under a new time-based system the best performing teachers could earn higher wages in a shorter period of time, although Policy Exchange does recommend that evaluations should be based on several measures, not just test or exam scores. ‘We want to treat teachers like professionals,’ says Jonathan Simons, head of education at Policy Exchange.

‘Teaching is one of the most important jobs in this country. Yet for too long we

have been running systems that seem to suggest exactly the opposite – treating teachers the same in how we recruit, train, develop, appraise and pay them, regardless of their performance.’ However Chris Keates, general secretary of the NASUWT, the largest teachers’ union which fiercely opposes the scheme, is concerned that however hard a teacher works and however well they perform, there is no guarantee of any pay progression. The good news is that this new Government scheme could attract more graduates to the profession, driving up the quality of teaching in schools across the country.

Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk 7

Education Prep schools: what are they and how to choose the right one?

By Ellen Arnison

Image: www.dunnesstores.com

Ask yourself the following questions: • Does the school fit the basic requirements of you and your child in terms of gender, day and/or boarding, religious denomination, curriculum and location?

• Does it meet your educational objectives in terms of offering the exams your child will need to sit?

• Will your child be happy there? Do you get good feedback from other parents and children?

Image: www.dunnesstores.com

Traditionally a preparatory school was where children went to ‘prepare’ to go to one of the major British public schools, such as Eton and Harrow, working up to them sitting the Common Entrance exam at 13. However, while that picture still exists in some cases, the situation now varies widely.

Broadly, there are two kinds of prep school – one where the children leave at 11, perhaps after an 11+ exam, and one where the children sit the Common Entrance exam then leave at 13.

In some cases youngsters attend a prep school until they reach their 11+ exam and then transfer to a local (state) grammar school. The smaller classes and more focussed attention in a prep school can improve their chances. This is particularly appealing to parents who think their child won’t get what they require from the nearby state primaries.

Traditionally boys attended prep schools up to age 13, either to sit the Common Entrance exam (part of the admissions process for academically selective secondary schools) and then to move on elsewhere or to graduate

to the attached senior school almost automatically. However, girls as well as boys now attend prep school on this basis as across the board the trend is to move from single-sex education to co-ed.

But it isn’t just about the exams, in both cases the prep schools can provide far more, including a wide range of sports and more specialised subjects, such as Latin, the pupils will need as they move through their education.

Julie Robinson, a former prep school head and Education and Training Director at the Independent Association of Prep Schools said: “They say the independent sector seems to bring a set of high expectations: a huge amount of time invested in pastoral support and personal development for the children, excellent facilities and a focus on learning.

“Parents believe their investment in fees is an investment in their children’s future.”

However, the range of places to invest and ways to ensure the best for your children is enormous. At first glance the decision about whether or not to use a prep school and,

8 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

indeed, which one is best can seem bewildering.

There are more than 1,000 prep schools in the UK taking children to 11 and 13, traditionally they are boarding schools but nowadays many parents choose to send their children daily.

Equally some prep schools will be part of ‘all-through’ schools catering for from the age of three up to 18 and some will be attached to a senior school.

Some prep schools adhere to the National Curriculum but they are not bound to, which can give them freedom to offer a broader and more varied curriculum that isn’t burdened by tests.

There isn’t always an entrance exam for prep schools, in many cases the school will just want to interview you and your child, perhaps inviting him or her to spend a ‘taster’ session in class. This also allows teaching staff to observe how your child fits in.

The decision is easier when you look to the end destination – the senior school – work backwards. Your decision will be narrowed by considering if there is a school attached to your preferred secondary and what kinds of criteria they use to select pupils.

• Does the school get a good report?

How are the exam results, the general atmosphere and the teaching quality?

• Do you like the ethos of school? It’s usually very clear and follows strong leadership from the Head.

• What is the teaching and staff turnover like?

• What is the curriculum?

• How big are the classes?

• What is the school’s approach to discipline and rules?

• What did the most recent inspection report say?

• What are the pastoral care facilities like?

• Does the school offer the facilities you would like to see, such as for sport, music or drama?

• Is there a wide-enough range of extra curricular activities?

• Does the school give value for money for what you want? Be careful to take extras into account.

Education

Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk 9

Education Historic Girls School Opens its Doors to Boys from 2014

From September 2014, Cransley School, based in Great Budworth will open its doors to Year 7 boys, for the first time in its 70 year history.

Cransley School is one of the country’s leading independent day schools, with a recent ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate) report ranking them ‘good’ and ‘excellent’ in all areas of inspection. The school currently educates boys aged 4 – 11 in its Junior School but up until now has only

allowed girls in its Senior School.

Cransley School prides itself on keeping its student to teacher ratio low. It will continue to co-educate in its Junior School, but will now teach boys in single sex lessons in its Senior School.

Headteacher Simon Leyshon joined the school in September after 11 years at Lord Wandsworth College in Hampshire, where he was Head of Religious Studies and the School Chaplain. He said that boys would join

10 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

on a rolling programme, starting with the first year of senior school.

Mr Leyshon comments: “We are all extremely excited about the prospect of introducing boys to the Senior School.

We feel that through this change, both boys and girls will be able to reach their full potential in every aspect of their education with us; developing healthy relationships without detracting focus within the classroom environment.”

He said: “The decision to move to co-education in our senior school is a natural development, reflecting the realities of today’s world.”

The change has already welcomed new enquiries and is good news for parents of girls currently at the senior school with younger brothers in the Junior School.

The next Junior School open afternoon will be held on Thursday 20 March, 1.30 – 5pm.

01606 891 747 / www.cransleyschool.org

Queen’s 64th in England Chester City centre school The Queen’s School has been ranked 64th nationally for its GCSE results.

It is the second year in a row that 100% of the pupils achieved 5 A*-C grades including maths and English – the only school locally to do so.

This consistent academic performance in GCSEs and iGCSEs, along with 73% of grades at A*- A , places the school top of the table for Cheshire.

The Queen’s School is also the only Cheshire school to get a mention in the BBC’s lists of top GCSE and A level performers.

Headmistress of The Queen’s School Sarah Clark said: “We work exceptionally hard to ensure that all girls achieve their full academic potential and with 73% of exams passed at A*-A this year my congratulations go to all the girls and staff involved.

“It is also enormously important to me personally, that our pupils leave us confident, happy, eloquent and intellectually curious.

While this can’t be measured in league tables it is something we know we do very well indeed.”

01244 312078 (Senior) / 01244 382843 (Lower) / www.queens.cheshire.sch.uk

Parents’ place Family nutrition - are you too busy to cook?

By Sian Riley, MSc RD The family meal really is the centre of family life.

But how in all the chaos, can we find time to prepare and cook nutritious meals?

Here are my 10 tips to help you and your family enjoy that precious time together, eat healthier and even reduce your food bill in the process.

Family life is busy! Parents are juggling 101 balls in the air at any one time; homework, sports, the constant washing, walking the dog, writing ‘thank you’ cards, cleaning, making another fancy dress outfit! All important parts of healthy family life, but with so much to do, are we just too busy to cook?

Preparing, cooking and eating together is a really important part of family nutrition.

Nutritionally, home cooked meals are far superior than ‘readymade’ equivalents.

Financially, readymade meals and ‘take outs’ will quickly blow any household budget. Socially, eating together provides a much needed time to catch up and communicate. In a busy family, the importance of eating together shouldn’t be underestimated!

10 tips for good nutrition for the busy family 1. Keep it simple – home cooking doesn’t have to be of gourmet standard.

Start simple and just have a go.

2. Plan, plan, plan – take 5 minutes once a week to plan the meals for the week ahead. Look in your freezer, cupboards and fridge to decide what needs buying, defrosting or using up. Write a menu plan and get the kids involved by choosing their favourite dish for one of the days.

3. Shop online – many supermarkets and local farm shops will deliver straight to your door. A regular order will save important minutes.

4. Prep the fridge, freezer and cupboards – chop, peel, grate as much as possible and store in air tight containers. Fill the freezer with ‘ready to go’ vegetables and the cupboards with tins of beans, vegetables and lentils.

5. Prepare the night before – whilst you’re tidying away tonight’s mess, start thinking about tomorrow’s meal.

What needs defrosting/peeling/ chopping? If you make a packed lunch for the kids, also make up a packed lunch for the rest of the family. Whether you’re working from home or at the office, it’ll be one less meal to prepare.

6. Get the whole family helping – good nutrition is a family affair.

Give the kids age appropriate jobs to do and teach them how to cook and meal plan from an early age.

In the short term it might be harder work, but you’ll soon reap the benefit when they’re cooking you a 3 course meal from scratch!

7. Batch cook – if you’re spending time cooking, then make it worth it!

Cook double, triple, or quadruple the amount and freeze. Once cooked the meal can be frozen, later defrosted (in the fridge overnight) and reheated. The result – a ‘readymade’ home-cooked meal with minimal effort. My particular favourite batch cooking recipes for freezing include; Lasagne, Fish Pie, Shepherd’s Pie and Sausage Casserole 8. The slow cooker – my busy family’s best friend. Prepare in the morning, switch on and let it do the cooking for you. Don’t have time in the morning? Prepare the night before and store in the fridge.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and good kitchen safety advice for safe family nutrition. Some of my favourite slow cooker meals are; Stews, Sausage Casserole, and Curries.

9. Try to eat together as often as possible. Having multiple ‘sittings’ results in extra work. Have the one sitting and enjoy the quality time together.

10. Plan treats and meals out – eating out (if budget allows) is an important part of the culinary experience. Children love eating out and trying new foods and you’ll appreciate the break from the kitchen. Try to vary the restaurant/ cafe, to vary the experience and the nutrition.

And finally – have a few quick, easy and healthy ‘fast food’ options on standby for when the plan fails or for when you forget to turn the slow cooker on. I speak from experience!

Here are a few of my favourites:• Scrambled eggs on toast • Soup and bread • Omelette and salad • Houmous, veggie and pitta bread dips • Beans on toast • Tinned sardines/mackerel on toast • Pitta pizza / french bread pizza • Tomato & vegetable pasta Sian Riley is a Registered Dietitian and owner of The Internet Dietitian.com.

She’s passionate about family nutrition and the dietary treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and holds face to face, 1:1 nutritional consultations in clinics across the North West, South Manchester and Cheshire. Individual e-mail consultations are also available. www.theinternetdietitian.com

Pregnant? Try Pilates

Pilates is total body conditioning, promoting body awareness, good posture and quality of movement through all stages of pregnancy and beyond.

Ante Natal Pilates is a safe and beneficial form of exercise, helping you to prepare for the birth of your baby and motherhood with a positive approach. It works with an effective breathing pattern to help you relax and release tension through your pregnancy and during

labour. It also helps you to support and accommodate your growing baby and can help to relieve back pain. By focusing on strengthening the deep abdominal muscles and all important pelvic floor you will recover more quickly after delivery.

Post Natal Pilates focuses on strengthening the pelvic floor and deep postural abdominal muscles after childbirth. Pilates will help to improve muscle strength, tone and regain your former shape.

Gail Jackson offers classes in Wilmslow and surrounding areas – for more information email her: pilates_principles@yahoo.com

Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk 11

Parents’ place Choosing your childcare

© dmitrimaruta - Fotolia.com

Childcare costs are increasing – but it’s quality that matters the most for any parent. Joanna Moorhead looks at what option might suit you best, plus what’s new in 2014 According to a recent survey from findababysitter.com, childcare costs are soaring – up by 19% over the last year.

Every parent knows that what matters most about any sort of childcare is its quality – it’s vital that your child is safe, happy and in a stimulating environment while you’re at work – but the money matters too. So what are the factors you need to take into account when you’re choosing childcare in readiness for returning to work?

A nanny might suit you if...

• You’re a reasonably high earner – nannies can be expensive, though they’re a lot more affordable if you share them with another family. As well as basic pay, there are a lot of extras to be aware of when you employ a nanny – particularly her tax, which you are required to pay, but also car insurance if she’s driving your car, and the costs of all the outings and visits your child is taken on.

• You work irregular hours. That’s

because you can pay a nanny to work the hours you work, whereas a nursery or childminder will be less flexible about time • You have two or more children, or have one baby and hope to have another very soon, because you’ll pay your nanny for her time, not for the number of children she’s looking after • You have quite rigorous ideas about, for example, the food you want your child to eat, and the schedule you want for his or her day. You can be a lot more prescriptive as a parent with a nanny than you can with a nursery or childminder, where your child will have to fit into a pre-existing schedule established by the institution or minder.

A childminder might suit you if...

• You work part-time or are not a high earner (childminders are usually the cheapest or, as many would prefer to put it, the best-value option) • You have two or more children and would like them to see a lot of each other through the day • You like the idea of another mother caring for your child – most childminders are mothers themselves

12 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

A nursery might suit you if...

• You have an only child or this is your youngest child and you are unlikely to have more in the near future – because a nursery will give him or her plenty of opportunities to play with other children • Your child is not a small baby, and so many benefit particularly from the organised activities a nursery can offer • You like the idea of a setting where events are regulated in a way that involves a lot of carers, rather than just one What’s happening in 2014?

Childcare is always a political hot potato – and with a General Election looming in just over a year’s time, politicians are saying more and doing more about it. Here’s what’s new on the childcare horizon: • From September this year, more twoyear-olds will be offered 15 hours of free childcare each week, because the eligibility criteria are being expanded.

See your local authority website for more information – they’ll be publishing full details of who’s eligible and how to find a place • Free universal childcare for all preschool children is being promised by Labour in their election manifesto. If they’re elected to power next time round, the Labour leadership is likely to make a dramatic announcement about the way childcare will be organised in Britain in the coming years • The new tax-free childcare scheme comes into effect from 2015. Under that, parents will be able to claim 20% of the cost of registered childcare up to £1,200 per child per year. Both parents must be working to qualify, or a single parent must be in employment.

• Last year’s report from the Department of Education that proposed making changes to the child to staff ratios in

nurseries and for childminders was shelved after the Liberal Democrats objected, but the government has consulted on relaxing ratios and quality criteria for out-of-school childcare with the aim of making it easier for schools to offer provision. At the moment the issue is with the Department for Education, and an announcement is expected soon.

• Under the Children and Families Bill, currently going through Parliament, Ofsted will be made ‘the sole arbiter of quality’. This means that local authorities will not be able to impose their own quality conditions on providers who offer childcare under the existing scheme offering free places for three and four year olds (provided these providers are not rated ‘inadequate’ by Ofsted). Some parents will see this as a good thing, as it could lead to a wider choice of providers; or they might see it as a bad thing, as local authorities will be able to do less to force childcarers to improve their services.

Organisations offering advice and information on childcare include: Childcare.co.uk is an online social networking platform for parents, childcare providers and private tutors. www.childcare.co.uk The Family and Childcare Trust is a campaigning organisation with a helpful bank of information for parents. www.familyandchildcaretrust.org The Pre-school Learning Alliance is England’s largest early years membership organisation. www.pre-school.org.uk Working Families aims to help parents and carers achieve a work-life balance.

More at www.workingfamilies.org.uk

Parents’ place Moving on …. Muddling through a house move The average family moves 8 times in their lifetime and anyone who has moved knows how stressful it can be.

Families magazine editors have put their heads together to offer you some advice on what to do to make sure your house move goes without hitch.

Prepare the children First, prepare the children. If they’re very young don’t assume they understand what a house move is all about. As one mum recalls:“We moved house when my son and daughter were 6 and 9 years old.

Although we did talk with them about moving, it wasn’t until they asked whether they could take their belongings with them that we realised we hadn’t made it clear that we were only selling the building; they thought we were selling the house plus its contents.”

A good way of preparing young children is to read stories about moving, for example Topsy and Tim Move House. If you do that when your own house is on the market, it gives your child time to become familiar with the idea before the time comes to move out.

If you are moving within your local area and no school move is involved, it is easier than when you are moving to a totally new area. Older school age children are likely to be upset – and often angry – at the prospect of losing friends. Listen to their fears and be endlessly patient and positive about the move (no matter how you are feeling yourself), and explain how they can keep in touch with old friends while making new ones. Children are very adaptable and the chances are they will settle in the new area and have firm friendships a lot sooner than you will, but they need to vent and they need your reassurance.

A practical plan Once your house is sold you can breathe a sigh of relief that you no longer have to run around stuffing toys back in cupboards to make the house presentable for viewers, but then sit down with a cup of coffee and make a plan. The key to a smooth move is in the planning: Declutter – don’t move your junk from one house to another. Take the time between selling and moving to do a thorough clearout.

Quotes for removal companies – get several. They can vary hugely in price. Decide whether you are going to

do your own packing or want the removal company to do it. It doesn’t cost a lot more to let the removal company do the packing and with their speed and efficiency it is often money well spent.

If you are pregnant when moving, have to move in a hurry with jobs or for a house sale, or have loads of belongings, it is definitely recommended.

Change of address list – do this in advance and have your letters or e-mail sorted ready to go out before you move.

It is not just day to day contacts you need to inform – you will also need to change address on your TV licence, driving licence and vehicle reg. And, you need to contact pension providers from previous jobs, ISA savings providers and so on. You can find a good list of people you need to contact on www.bbc.co.uk/homes/property/ moving_notifychecklist.shtml Don’t forget to set up a redirection with Royal mail. Inevitably you will forget one crucial contact to notify so redirection of mail is essential.

Insurance – you need to make sure you have insurance on your new home from the day you move into it.

Pets – they too can get stressed with moving house. Make a plan in advance to ease their transition. Helpful websites include www.dogstrust.org.uk and www.bluecross.org.uk On the Day Utilities: Don’t forget to take utility readings before leaving the house Mobile phone: make sure your mobile is fully charged in case there are any last minute snags to sort out like getting keys from the estate agent.

Essentials kit: One mum says: “The best advice we were given was to pack a separate box with the kettle tea/coffee milk, mugs etc in it so at least when we were in the midst of chaos we didn’t have to hunt to find the kettle.”

Bedrooms – linen, blankies and cuddly toys: “The first thing we did when we got in our new house was to make the beds so later on when exhausted and tired we didn’t have to do it before falling into bed,” advises another Mum. You can also make sure any special sleep ‘blankies’ or cuddly toys are on your child’s bed waiting for them, and that a few familiar toys are unpacked from their own special box to make them feel at home.

Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk 13

Parents’ place Women, Why Weight?

Hair straightener safety

By Steven Hurst, Manager at Bollington Health & Leisure Looking to get the body beautiful, or maybe just lose a few pounds?

The answer may be dumbbell shaped – many women assume that lifting weights will turn their physique muscular and unfeminine, but if you lift correctly then weights are a great way to help you slim down. Not sure? Read on…

First of all look up “lean tissue” on the web. You won’t have to look far to see that lean tissue means muscle without fat. If you want to increase your lean tissue, you need to pick up those weights. But why?

1. Working with weights creates tiny muscular tears throughout the body and you use more calories to repair these tears. More calories used equals more fat burned, equals results.

2. Pound for pound, lean tissue burns more calories on a daily basis than fatty tissue,

so just by having more lean tissue you will use more calories. More calories used is good, see point 1!

3. Lifting weights can lead to increased bone strength helping offset osteoporosis and increased core strength making multi-tasking easier (bending to pick up the kids, while turning to answer the phone and stretching to wipe the kitchen counter will all have less risk of a sprain or a strain).

You can start out light and build to a weight you are comfortable with; the local gym can help or you can exercise at home – just check your posture and stay safe while lifting. Remember there has never been a better time to weight!

01625 574774 / www.bollingtonleisure.co.uk

Hair straighteners can get as hot as an iron. So hot, in fact, you could cook your breakfast on them. Not something you’d want a baby or toddler to touch.

Most injuries occur when crawling babies and toddlers grab at them, step on them, sit on them or pull them down.

Hair straighteners can stay hot enough to burn up to 15 minutes after they have been switched off. Despite this, most parents don’t know just how dangerous they can be. Over a third report leaving hair straighteners to cool down on the floor, on furniture or over a door handle.

Toddlers don’t really understand hot and cold, or that heat burns. They don’t know to pull away from something that’s burning them, which is why they can be so badly burnt. And they won’t necessarily learn from experience not to do it again. Keep your children safe from hair straightener burns with three easy steps:

1. Put them out of reach straight away 2. Put them in a heat-proof pouch if you have one 3. Put them well out of reach and sight, say on a high shelf.

Immediate first aid can prevent longterm scarring and stop the burn from getting worse.

Information supplied by CAPT (the Child Accident Prevention Trust), the UK’s leading charity working to reduce the number of children and young people killed, disabled or seriously injured in accidents. www.capt.org.uk

Mothering Sunday

Mother’s Day takes place on 30 March this year, so it’s time to treat your mother – or for your little ones to treat you!

14 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

Perhaps you’d like a lie in and breakfast in bed, a day at the spa, afternoon tea or a trip to the theatre? Or perhaps what you’d really love is a day to spend time with your loved ones. Across the country many museums, National Trust properties and stately homes are running Mother’s Day events, so why not plan a special day with your family this March?

Parents’ place Coughs and Colds in children

By Dr Adam Simon, GP Extra

Coughs and colds, often referred to

by GP’s as upper respiratory tract infections, are very common. Most pre-school and primary school children will have 6 – 8 coughs or colds per year. Occasionally one will follow right on from another because the child is run down and their resistance to infection is lower. The infection is most usually spread by touching an infected person’s skin, especially hands, and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

It can also be caught by touching infectious particles on a surface and then transferring them to your eyes, nose or mouth.

What causes coughs and colds?

Most coughs and colds are caused by viruses. There are more than 200 different types of virus known to cause the ‘common cold’; this is very important as antibiotics have NO effect on viruses. They only kill bacteria.

What are the symptoms?

Blocked nose, runny nose, sore throat, headache and cough, hoarse voice, loss of taste or smell, irritation of the eyes and blocked ears or sinuses.

Usually the person feels worse in the first 2-3 days and then begins to feel better each day as the body’s immune system starts to kill the virus.

The cough occurs in 1/3 of colds and often starts on about the 4th or 5th day when the nose symptoms start to ease. An irritating cough can last up to 4 weeks after the other symptoms have gone.

Infants and young children are more likely to get high temperatures.

Infants may also have diarrhoea, reduced intake of food or fluid.

How will I know if it is more than just a cough & cold?

Usually coughs and colds get better within 7-10 days.

Very rarely, a more serious bacterial infection can develop from the initial virus infection. This happens when a cough or a cold develops into a chest infection, ear infection or sinusitis.

Below are symptoms that mean you need to get your child seen by a doctor: • Breathing faster than normal, noisy breathing wheezing or struggling to breathe.

• Struggling to swallow, especially if unable to swallow saliva (drooling).

• Drowsiness, being lethargic or floppy.

• In babies, irritability or persistent crying.

• Dehydration, when not drinking fluids, little or no passing urine, dry mouth & reduced tears. This is important as dehydration can occur when children have a fever but do not drink enough to replace all the fluid they are losing.

• Rash, most BUT NOT ALL rashes are harmless – they need to be checked out by your GP. • Raised temperature that persists.

Please note it is never acceptable for a baby under 3 months to have a temperature over 38°C. • Headache that is persistent, especially if associated with neck stiffness, vomiting and dislike of light.

If the symptoms of earache, sore throat, swollen glands or cough are persisting or any symptoms seem to be getting worse after about 5 days please see your GP. Or if you are concerned about the symptoms, see your GP. Treatment There are no medications proven to prevent the common cold. Any treatment is mainly to reduce symptoms.

In the under two’s: Paracetamol and Ibuprofen – these help reduce pain and fever.

The National Institute for Clinical Excellence, NICE, in their recent publication Feverish Illness in Children under the Age of 5 (2013) state that we should not use paracetamol or ibuprofen ONLY to reduce temperature in feverish children. We should use it when children with fever appear distressed. The medications should be continued only as long as the child appears distressed. Only use one (paracetamol OR ibuprofen) at a time unless the distress or pain comes back before the next dose is due.

Cough mixtures In 2009 the medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Agency, who are responsible for ensuring medicines are safe and effective, stated that over the counter cough and cold remedies should no longer be used in the under 6’s. This was because the potential harm from these medications, allergic reactions, sleep problems or even hallucinations, outweighed any potential benefits.

If your child is over one, a drink of warm water (check the temperature) with honey and lemon is a soothing drink that can help reduce coughing.

Decongestants Over the age of 3 months, vapour rubs and inhaled decongestants can assist. I have often suggested parents put a small amount of Vicks, Olbas oil or similar, in a bowl of hot water that they put in a safe place in the child’s bedroom when the child goes to sleep and change it when they themselves go to sleep.

Saline Nose Drops This is a very long established treatment used in babies where the blocked nose & snuffliness is affecting the baby’s feeding. If the baby’s mouth is full when feeding it can struggle to breathe through a blocked nose. One drop into each nostril before a feed can really help.

These can be prescribed by your GP. In the over two’s: The paracetamol and Ibuprofen remain useful. There are other treatments that can assist.

Decongestants The suggestion of decongestant in bowls of water, above, remains useful. However, there are also nasal decongestants that can be used. They must only be used as directed and are usually only to be used for 5-7 days. Using for longer can cause worsening symptoms.

Steam Inhalation This can sometimes help ease a coughing child. However, there is little scientific base for its use. It needs to be done in strictly supervised conditions to avoid the risk of burning or scalding.

It also needs to be done in a way that does not traumatise the child; steam in the eyes can be very frightening. I have suggested that parents use the bathroom sink and sit with the child on their lap on a chair a short distance away reading a book. They can then prevent inquisitive hands going near the hot water. Using swimming goggles can make the steam inhalations fun and avoids eye irritation that limits how long a child can inhale for. There

is no regulation about how often or for how long steam inhalations should be carried out. I tend to advise 5 minutes before bed time, on waking and again during the day if needed.

Elevate the mattress We prop ourselves up with pillows when we have colds and children can sometimes benefit from this. However I tend to advise putting a pillow under the mattress at the head end of the bed.

This maintains a normal neck position whilst the child is sleeping.

What your GP will do Your GP will be able to go over the details of the illness and carry out an examination. He/she will examine the chest, heart, abdomen, ears, nose and throat, and will also be assessing whether your child is dehydrated, has a rash or appears to be suffering from more than just a cold.

Dr Adam Simon is a GP with over 20 years’ experience, providing quality private GP services in established private hospitals. His private GP appointments are ideal if you are unable to see your NHS GP, would like more time to discuss your health concerns or are in need of a second opinion.

With no registration fee, appointments can be quickly scheduled for weekday evenings and Saturday mornings. Clinics are available at The Alexandra Hospital, Cheadle, The Highfield Hospital, Rochdale and The Beardwood Hospital, Blackburn.

Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk 15

Holiday fun The Science of Play

By Dr David Whitebread, Senior Lecturer in the Psychology of Education, Cambridge University Playing with rules • We live by rules and playing by the rules in sports, board games, card games and computer games helps children adjust to the reality that they cannot always do, say, or act how they wish to.

• The use of electronic and computer games by today’s children is another particular area of anxiety for parents and teachers. Too much screen time obviously prevents your child from doing the range of other activities that is beneficial to them, so keep these tech tools in your armoury, but keep time restricted on use. There is some evidence that well-designed videogames can enrich play resources for children and their families.

• Many parents are concerned about videogame overuse but the key is to make it interactive. So get involved!

Challenge them to their favourite game in return for them participating in an activity of your choice.

As the Easter break comes upon us, many parents will be thinking about how to entertain their children.

Dr David Whitebread at Cambridge University shares his views on what constitutes effective play and tackles some of the myths and misconceptions around the types of play children engage in today. Dr Whitebread is supporting National Science and Engineering Week, which aims to raise awareness of the important role science has in many aspects of our lives. A whole host of scientific topics will be explored during the Week, which takes place from 14 to 23 March. Adults and children alike can attend free events across the UK in a range of fun environments.

To find out about these events and how you can take part, visit www.britishscienceassociation.org/ NSEWevents

Different types of play Physical play • Most parents would recognise that physical play (such as running, climbing and gymnastics) helps a child develop their whole body and hand-eye co-ordination and is important in building strength and endurance. But it also provides a crucial means for children to develop their emotional intelligence.

• Encouraging children to get physical isn’t just about letting them loose outside, it’s also about creating opportunities at home. So encouraging play through things like craft activities, helps children with their fine motor skills, essential when it comes to learning to write and even playing musical instruments. Due to their absorbing nature, it has even been shown to help children develop their concentration and perseverance skills.

• Create an obstacle course in the garden.

Create time targets and challenges (i.e. do the course on just one leg!). Give craft activities a purpose, for example, create posters for an Easter egg hunt or party.

Symbolic play • Artistic activities such as drawing, dance, and even developing silly rhymes, gives children the opportunity to develop their language and interpretation skills as they start to decode what is going on around them.

It can even make them nicer! A study in 2010 of almost 100 four year-olds found that children who take part in music making were more likely to show cooperative and helpful behaviour.

• Get your children to create their own music compilation for their best friend or family member. Encourage them to add their own tracks for that special touch.

Play with objects • Touching, sorting, building and making objects encourages children to organise their thinking and helps them learn how to solve problems. Children have to pick the right strategy to complete the task, and then stay on track to complete it. Creativity comes in here, as does the use of language, as children often talk to themselves when they broach these tasks as a way of organising their thoughts.

• Get your children to build their own skyscraper. Arm them with different materials to build at home or in the garden.

Pretend play • Pretend play can have a serious side too. Dressing up, playing with dolls and miniature figures gives children the chance to rehearse some of the scenarios they already see or might face in their future life, whether it’s expressing how to care for someone (such as their favourite doll) or tackling aggressive situations.

• Make a challenge to act like a member of their family, or their favourite TV character for a day. It might be their mum, Homer Simpson, or Daddy Pig!

16 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

References 1. ‘Developmental Psychology & Early Childhood Education’ (Sage, 2013).

David Whitebread. Available on Amazon and at all good book shops.

2. ‘The Importance of Play’ (Report written for the Toys Industry of Europe, March 2012). David Whitebread with Marisol Basilio, Martina Kuvalja and Mohini Verma. www.importanceofplay.eu/IMG/ pdf/dr_david_whitebread_-_the_ importance_of_play.pdf

Holiday fun Make a Bee Garden

by Robin Dean, The Red Beehive Company

Of all the insects that visit our gardens, none are more iconic and important to us than bees, and they come in a surprising range of sizes, colours and shapes. Honey and bumble bees are instantly recognizable to most of us as they buzz around, but how many of us could identify some of the other species of bee?

Whether we can identify them or not, one thing is common to all species, and that is they all need our help. Most bees would just like a little nectar and pollen, and a lovely Easter holiday project would be to plant up a “Bee Garden”. There are a number of plants to choose from that are robust and require minimum care, beyond a drink of water now

and again, and will do splendidly in a small window box, planter or large pot. Snowdrops, Crocus, Primrose and Bluebells (remember Bluebells are protected, so don’t go digging them up from a local woodland area!) all make for a spectacular spring display.

Rosemary, Sage and Lavender are also highly attractive to bees, and chives have flowers to tempt them - as well as making a tasty contribution to the kitchen! A Catnip plant or two will keep your cat happy, as well as the having the local bees dropping in for a nectar and pollen snack.

Now you have given them some food, why not make a bee hotel as well? For those of you concerned about encouraging bees to live in the garden, don’t be. Bees that live in bee hotels are solitary bees, and unlike the social bees (honey and bumble bees) don’t make honey so therefore don’t have anything to defend. This makes them really docile and perfectly safe to have around children and pets.

To construct your bee hotel: • You will need some bamboo (around 1.5cm in diameter), string or garden wire, and a small saw (to cut the bamboo).

• Cut the bamboo into 15cm lengths, cutting each piece just before a node to give you a hollow tube with a natural sealed end.

• Bind the bamboo pieces together with the string or garden wire, with the open ends all facing in the same direction.

• Take the bundle out into the garden and find a secure place to fasten your bee hotel to. The open ends should face anywhere between east and south to get the early morning sun, with a clear flight path into the hotel.

Surprising summers in the Alps

Summer holidays in the Alps will definitely surprise you. It may be an obvious destination for the ski season, but give a thought to a summer visit.

Forget the snow conditions and limited visibility, summer offers unbounded beauty and enough green (the mountains) and blue (the sky) to set you up for the whole year - and plenty of the freshest air to fill your lungs.

You can fly to Geneva - just under 2 hours from Manchester – and hire a car for the last hour’s journey. Morzine, just on the French side of the Swiss French border and south of Lake Geneva, offers families a special experience. From walking to local mountain villages and tasting their local cheeses to a day out in a hot-air balloon or white-water rafting, Morzine has it all.

To top it all in summer there is a brilliant way to explore really cheaply – the summer Multi Pass costs just 2 euros a day, gives FREE mountain lifts, shuttle buses and other travel between resorts AS WELL AS free entry to many local attractions including Aquariaz, the new water park up in Avoriaz.

To experience the area at its best, call Paul and Francesca Eyre at Chilly Powder. Choose a self-catered chalet (with optional chef) – or join the Chilly Powder party next door at ‘Au Coin du Feu’ for dinners that you usually only dream of. With drinks in the bar – or in the Jacuzzi on the terrace – early evening meals for the children and a daytime crèche for little ones not quite so active as you, Paul and Francesca will make you wish that this was home!

See www.chillypowder.com for more details about the Chilly Powder chalets and Paul and Fran’s ideas for great days out. Other useful sites: www.morzine.com / www.morznet.com / www.allmountainrental.co.uk

Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk 17

Holiday fun

Manchester Histories Festival 2014 – 21-30 March This March, Manchester Histories Festival offers lots of events especially for families and children – many of which are free.

Some highlights are: Thank you A spectacular two-mile laser beam artwork located at the Quays/MediaCityUK pulsing ‘thank you’ in Morse code. Every evening at from 5 –11pm. FREE <3MCR Big Saturday at the Manchester Museum Investigate the Manchester Gallery and uncover the secrets of the objects in the collection. Sat 22 March 11am – 4pm. FREE

Roman Object Handling at the Manchester Museum Bring your budding archaeologists along for a chance handle some real Roman objects.

Sat 22 March 12 –1pm. FREE Saturday Spectacular Family Fun Day Coinciding with the opening weekend of Manchester’s Central Library and the launch of Archives+. Sat 22 March 12 – 4pm. FREE The Big Digital Project Manchester Town Hall becomes a giant canvas for this spectacular sound & light event. Sat 29 March. FREE

MHF Celebration Day at Manchester Town Hall Exhibition stands, games, film screenings, performances and talks. Sat 29 March. FREE Open Day at the Greater Manchester Police Museum Experience what life was really like for officers in a busy Victorian police station. Sat 29 March 10.30am – 3.30pm. FREE For more details and the full list of events taking place, go to www.manchesterhistoriesfestival.org.uk

ARE YOU FEELING LUCKY?!

Win a family ticket to Scooby Doo or ICE at The Lowry!

This April, The Lowry brings you two fantastic family shows that are guaranteed to thrill and entertain.

Scooby-Doo and the gang are back by popular demand from Thurs 10 – Sun 13 April with even more spooky mystery and fun – this time in the Pyramids in Egypt, where they must solve the mystery of Pharaoh Hatchepsout’s Pyramid. With hilarious physical comedy, popular tunes and special effects, this is fun for the whole family.

ICE (Tues 15 – Sun 20 April) is a dazzling new show by Robin Cousins, Olympic champion and head judge on ITV’s Dancing on Ice, which stars hand-picked figure skaters from around the globe. Dynamic and atmospheric, ICE will draw you into its unique world, where you’ll watch world class skaters glide, soar, flip and fly in a truly stunning and theatrical setting.

ICE promises to redefine ice skating for a new generation, delivering a spectacular show the likes of which UK theatres have not seen in 30 years!

We’ve got 2 family tickets (for 4 people) to give away – one to each show. The tickets will be valid for the performance of Scooby Doo on Thurs 10 April at 7pm and for ICE on Tues 15 April at 7.30pm.

Don’t miss out – get your entries in quickly – head to www.familiescheshire.co.uk to enter now! Entries close Monday 31 March.

18 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

Holiday fun Put down the gadgets and pledge to spend ARE YOU FEELING LUCKY?! more creative time with your family!

Pledge 2 Play is a brand new campaign launched by directors of two creative kids’ brands, Aly Cranston (The Rainy Day Box Co) and Jennifer Duthie (Skribbies).

The campaign encourages grownups to put down the gadgets and provides creative support to help them pledge two hours a week to spend creatively with their little ones.

In a world with an ever-increasing number of technological mediums, the balance between electronic and traditional play can get a little uneven. While there is a great place for learning through apps, computers and TV it is often an activity of solitude. Pledge 2 Play is all about encouraging parents to redress this balance and make a conscious effort to interact as a family in a creative way on a regular basis.

How does it work?

• Commit to a regular time each day or week to spend the two hours creatively with your kids; it could be 30 minutes every other day or two hours over the weekend • Turn off or place in another room all TVs, computers, tablets and phones • Engage with your child in a FUN activity

(not homework). It could be going for a walk, cooking together, making things, drawing or story-telling.

What are the benefits?

• Children’s imagination and creativity can improve considerably from this time together • Little ones may use the time to open up about things that are on their mind • Family relationships can improve and become stronger • You could notice an improvement in behaviour.

But I already do this That’s great, most families do engage in some traditional play. By joining the Pledge 2 Play you’re showing your support for this ethos and giving yourself that gentle reminder to spend more time together.

They’ll also send you creative ideas, tips and exclusive deals to assist you in spending quality play time with your children. In short: let’s up the creativity and spend more creative time together as a family with a little less gadgetry.

To join the crusade and show your support simply sign up at signup.pledge2play.co.uk

Win a family ticket to CBeebies live! The Big Band CBeebies Live! The Big Band is the brand new live arena show from the producers of Justin & Friends. This music-themed extravaganza is bound to have pre-schoolers rocking in the aisles when the show sets out on tour over Easter 2014, visiting nine cities across the UK. Tickets are on sale now and full details can be found at www.CBeebieslive.com.

Warming up their vocal chords for this spectacular show are some of CBeebies’ best-loved characters including Justin Fletcher MBE and his alter ego Mr Tumble, Mister Maker and – making his CBeebies Live! debut – Mr Bloom. Also strutting their stuff on the tour will be Andy Day, Katy Ashworth, Nina of Nina and the Neurons and Zingzillas.

Plus - raising the roof for the first time on CBeebies Live! - the one and only Rastamouse!

Justin Fletcher said: “I am so pleased… this is going to be a fantastic show with great production values. It’ll be great to share the stage with my CBeebies friends and see the audience join in the fun!”

CBeebies Live! The Big Band is produced by the creative team behind the hugely popular Justin & Friends 2013 Easter Tour which was attended by over 105,000 people.

Tickets for the upcoming tour have been held at 2013 prices with tickets priced from £13.00 for children, with family tickets from £52.00 (for four people and subject to booking fee). For tickets and the most up to date tour information visit www.CBeebieslive.com.

We’ve got a family ticket up for grabs to the show at either the Manchester Phones 4U Arena on Sunday 13 April or at the Liverpool EchoTwo @ Echo Arena on Thursday 17 April.

To be in with a chance of winning, just go to www.familiescheshire.co.uk and answer a simple question to enter. Entries close Tuesday 1 April. Good luck!

Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk 19

What’s on

Remember to check our What’s On Calendar on www.familiescheshire.co.uk regularly, as not all event information is available at the time of going to print.

EGGY FUN AT EASTER

Sat 5 April

Marshall’s Arm Local Nature Reserve, Northwich Easter Egg Hunt & Family Orienteering 10 am - 12pm. Hunt for Easter eggs or test your map reading skills on the orienteering course. Something for all the family. Children must be accompanied. www.gonorthwich.co.uk

Sat 5 – Tues 22 April

The National Football Museum, Manchester Everyday Easter Activities 10am – 5pm / Age 2 – 12 / £1 charge for badge-making. A selection of fun activities, a special themed quiz, an Easter Egg Hunt, and badge-making for our younger visitors.

0161 871 8145 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

Mon 7 – Mon 21 April

The Chestnut Centre Otter Owl and Wildlife Park, Chapel-en-le-Frith Easter Egg Trail 10.30am - 5.30pm / Adult: £7.75 Child (3- 16): £5.50, Family (2 + 2 or 1 + 3): £23.50 Trail available throughout the holidays. Count how many eggs you can find hidden in our animals/birds enclosures and copy how they are decorated. Wear an Easter Bonnet on your Easter visit for £1 off your entry ticket.

01298 814099 / www.chestnutcentre.co.uk

Sat 12 – Tues 22 April

Bellis Brothers Farm Shop & Garden Centre, Wrexham Charity Easter Egg Hunt Mon - Sat 9am - 6pm, Sun 11am - 5pm / £1 per entry. All proceeds to Nightingale House Hospice. Follow the clues around the garden centre to find the Easter chicks. Small prize for every entry.

01829 270302 / www.bellisbrothers.co.uk

Thurs 17 April

Easter Hunt Delamere Forest, Northwich 10am - 4pm / £5 per child – booking essential (online). Follow the green trail (1.7 miles) in search of clues left by the Easter Bunny. Can you solve the Easter hunt and receive your chocolate egg prize? Collect your hunt sheet and pencil from the education classroom located behind TRACS Cycle hire. Return here to drop off your pencils and with the correct answer and you will go away with your prize! All children must be accompanied by an adult. www.forest-explorers.co.uk

Fri 18 April

Blakemere Village, Northwich Easter Egg Frenzie 10.30am / Categories: Pre-school, 5 – 8, 9 – 11 / Free. A highlight of the Easter celebrations on the village green, with children burning off energy while they frantically look for the coloured balls! Children must collect as many balls as they can in the time available. Everyone taking part will receive a small Easter egg and a special sticker.

01606 883261 / www.visitblakemere.co.uk

Fri 18 – Mon 21 April

Rudyard Lake Steam Railway, Leek Easter Egg Steam Train 11am - 4pm (on the hour) / Return train fare prices are: Adult £4.00 Child (2-12) £2.50 (children under 2 travel free). Easter Egg Steam trains run daily - no booking needed. A family friendly day out.

01995 672280 / www.rlsr.org Biddulph Grange Garden Easter Egg Trail 11am – 5pm / £2 per trail (normal admission fees apply). Run around the garden, hunting high and low, under rocks and in trees for the hidden eggs! Discover them all to find the Easter bunny! If you manage to track him down you can then enjoy your delicious Cadbury egghead!

01782 517999 / www.eastereggtrail.com

20 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

Little Moreton Hall, Congleton Easter Egg Trail 11am – 3.30pm / £1 per trail (normal admission fees apply). Enjoy a modern day celebration with Tudor games and trails for all the family to enjoy and take home a Cadbury chocolate Egghead 01260 272018 / www.eastereggtrail.com

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Easter Weekend Eggstravaganza 11am - 4pm / £1 per trail (Normal admission applies). Hunt the clues to earn your egg with the special Cadbury’s trail over Easter weekend plus games and activities on the Mill Meadow.

01625 527468 / www.eastereggtrail.com

Erdigg, Wrexham Easter Egg Trail 11am - 3.30pm / £2.50 per trail (normal admission applies). Follow the clues and solve the puzzle to claim your Easter treat 01978 355314 / www.eastereggtrail.com

Gulliver’s World, Warrington Easter 2014 10.30 - 5pm / Entry £15.95 (Babies under 90cm free). Experience the ultimate family day out with our Easter Eggstravaganza! Rides, shows and attractions and fantastic Easter themed competitions and activities. Easter Egg Hunt, Easter Bunny Parade and.Big Bunny Bounce.

01925 444888 / www.gulliversfun.co.uk

Chirk Castle, Chirk, Wrexham Easter Egg Trail Step back in time to 700 years ago as you follow the Easter Egg trail at Chirk Castle, exploring the dungeons and by-passing the guards to pick up clues to where your Cadbury chocolate egghead prize is hidden!

01691 777701 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chirk-castle Lyme Park, Disley Easter Eggstravaganza 11am - 4pm / £1 per trail. House and Garden admission also applies. Fabulous family trails, with a special Easter prize. Outdoor games, face painting and fun. 01663 762023 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme-park Trentham Monkey Forest, Stoke-on-Trent Easter Fun 10am - 5pm / Adults: £7.50 / Children (3 – 14): £5.50 each / Under 3s Free. This Easter at the Monkey Forest, follow our egg-citing Easter trail and make our Easter bunnies feel welcome! www.trentham-monkey-forest.com Dunham Massey, Altrincham Easter Trails 11am - 4pm / Free but normal admission applies. Follow the trail in the garden and children receive a special Easter prize at the end!

0161 941 1025 / www.nationaltrust.org. uk/dunham-massey

Sat 19 & Sun 20 April

Sun 20 April

Hare Hill, Over Alderley, SK10 4PY Easter Egg Trail 11am - 4pm / £1 per trail (Normal admission applies). The hares at Hare Hill are well known, but this Easter they have a special visitor; the playful Easter bunny is coming to town! He’s a cheeky bunny and is hiding with a basket of chocolate eggs amongst the twists and turns of this delightful wooden garden. Can you help to find him by discovering the clues to his whereabouts?

Linda Whiting: 01625 584412 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hare-hill The Churnet Valley Railway Easter Special Adult £10, Children (up to age 14): Free this weekend. Children’s Easter Activities at all three stations: Cheddleton, Consall and Kingsley & Froghall. Easter Egg Hunt, Hunt the Rabbit, Egg Painting and other Easter activities. Join in and vote for your favourite Tea Room Girls Easter Bonnet.

01538 750755 / www.churnet-valley-railway.co.uk Cholmondeley Castle Gardens, Malpas Family Easter Egg Hunt Adults £6 Children: £3. Find the bunnies and win an Easter Treat. Other activities and time of hunt TBC. 01829 720383 / www.cholmondeleycastle.com

These listings are for guidance only – please check before you go To include your upcoming event in our listings, email events@familiescheshire.co.uk

Every Tues from 4 March

Wacky Woods, Adlington Toddler and Pre-school Group Under 5s. 10am – 12pm or 1 – 3pm / £5 per child (including drink and snack). Have fun in the woods with your pre-schooler. Lots of sensory play activities, with guided sessions.

Run in the sun, play in the mud, splash in the puddles and explore the wonderful great outdoors in the safety of a private wood.

01625 573 086 / www.wackywoods.co.uk

Tues 4 & 18 March, 1, 15 & 29 April

The Manchester Museum Baby Explorers 10.30 – 11.15am & 11.30am – 12.15pm & 1 – 1.45pm / Free, but book from a week before Drop in sensory play session for babies who aren’t walking yet.

0161 275 2648 / www.museum.manchester.ac.uk

Tues 4 March

Northgate Street, Chester Chester Cheese Rolling 11am. Associated with the Food and Drink Festival which takes place over Easter. Spectators should be in no danger from flying cheese! www.chesterfoodanddrink.co.uk Bellis Brothers Farm Shop & Garden Centre, Wrexham Children’s Pancake Workshop 3.30pm and 4pm. / £2 per child / Booking essential. Make the batter, cook and toss the pancakes and fill them with yummy stuff.

Please book directly with the restaurant.

01829 270302 / www.bellisbrothers.co.uk The National Football Museum, Manchester World Cup Carnival Countdown 10am – 8pm / Free. A day of celebrations as Mardi Gras takes place in Rio and the 100 day countdown to the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil begins! Games and activities for young ones, and plenty to get everyone else into the samba spirit.

0161 871 8145 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

Thurs 6 & 20 March, Mon 10 & 24 March

The National Football Museum, Manchester Baby Moves 10.30am & 1.30pm / £2 per baby. A chance for our very youngest visitors (0 – 12 months) to get into training! A play and movement session to help your baby’s physical, communication and language development. Booking strongly advised. 0161 871 8145 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

Thurs 6 March

The John Rylands Library, Manchester Learn Together: Make a book for World Book Day 4.30 – 6pm / Free – but booking required. Join us after school and learn how to make a book, exactly like real books are made. You’ll be amazed at the notebook you take away with you!

0161 306 0555 / www.manchester.ac.uk

Thurs 6, 13, 20 & 27 March

Bramall Hall Storytime at the Hall 11 – 11.45am / £3 per session or £10 for all four / Adults free (max 2 per child) / Booking essential. Settle on our cushions and let the magic of the Hall transport you to another place as you listen to some stories – a different one each week.

0161 474 2020 / www.stockport.gov.uk/bramallhall

Thurs 6 March, Mon 27 March & Thurs 4 April

The National Football Museum Under 5s story time. 10.30 – 11.30am / £2 Join us in the storytelling corner of the Discovery Zone for a fun interactive story session combined with puppetry developed especially for under-5s and their grown-ups. Booking advised.

0161 871 8145 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

Fri 7 March

The Manchester Art Gallery Baby Art Club 10.15 – 11am, 11.30 – 12.15pm, 1.15 – 2pm, 2.30 – 3.15pm / Free with limited space, please book a week in advance. Use all your senses to explore our artist’s space. For babies who aren’t walking yet, with an adult carer.

0161 235 8888 / www.manchestergalleries.org

Fri 7 – Sun 9 March

Event City, Manchester Cake International – The Sugarcraft, Cake Decorating & Baking Show 10am – 5pm / Adults: £10.00, Under 16s Free.

With an abundance of cake decorating supplies to discover and a host of demonstrations, workshops and special features to enjoy, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

0161 870 9800 / www.cakeinternational.co.uk Event City, Manchester The Baby & Toddler Show Friday: 9.30am – 4.30pm, Saturday: 9.30am – 5pm, Sunday 10am – 5pm / Tickets from £9, Goody Bag tickets from £12 – Save 25% on tickets, quote NWB29. All the amazing shopping and expert advice new parents need to give their baby the best start.

0161 870 9800 / www.babyshownorthwest.com

Every Friday in March & April The Lowry Under 5s First Steps Ages 2½ – 4½. 10am – 10.45am & 11am – 11.45am / £3.50. An active weekly workshop in The Studio where your little one can explore their creativity and have tons of fun!

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Sat 8 March

The Manchester Art Gallery Baby Saturday 1 – 3pm / Free, drop in. Use all your senses to explore our artist’s space. For babies who aren’t walking yet, with an adult carer.

0161 235 8888 / www.manchestergalleries.org

The National Football Museum, Manchester International Women’s Day 10am – 4pm / Free. An exploration of the women’s game. FC United Women’s Team will be there for demonstrations and displays across the day, and will be talking to girls and women about getting into the game.

0161 871 8145 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

Sat 8 & Sun 9 March

The National Football Museum, Manchester FA Cup Weekend 10am – 4pm / Age 5+ / Small charges (typically £1) apply for craft activities. A range of fun activities that celebrate football’s most historic competition for visitors for of all ages.

0161 871 8145 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com The Imperial War Museum, North Open Studio: Nancy’s Land Army Adventure 11am – 12.30pm and 2 – 3.30pm / Free / all ages. Meet Nancy and hear her tales of life in the Land Army in the Second World War. Enjoy the story and then make your own Nancy or Rufus character. www.iwm.org.uk

Sun 9 March

Festival Hall Alderley Edge Local Baby Sale 10am – 12noon / £2 entrance (children free) / Table hire £15. Nearly New Sale – clothes, toys & buggies.

01625 582 150 / www.localbabysale.co.uk

Wed 12 & 26 March, 9 & 23 April

The Bridgewater Hall Art Baby 11.15am – 12noon, 12.30 – 1.15pm or 1.30 – 2.15pm / Free. Creative sensory, discovery and play sessions accompanied by live musicians, specially designed for babies before they learn to walk.

0844 907 9000 / www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

Thurs 13 March

The John Rylands Library, Manchester Toddler Tales 10.30 – 11.30am / Up to age 5 / Free – no booking required. Find a cosy corner, pull up a cushion and listen to fun stories. Join in playtime, creating a story world of your own.

0161 306 0555 / www.manchester.ac.uk

Sat 15 March

The John Rylands Library, Manchester Enchanting Tales 11am – 12 noon / Free – no booking required Join the Library’s storyteller in one of our beautiful book-lined rooms, for tales of magic, mystery, mayhem and more.

Here be dragons!

12 – 1pm / Age 5 – 10 / Free The walls and ceilings of the Library are full of strange and mysterious creatures – join our tour to seek them out!

0161 306 0555 / www.manchester.ac.uk The Museum Of Science And Industry (MOSI) Saturday Science – Design your future 10:30 – 3:30 / Free. Discover how you could design your own future. Try your hand at binary code, make some pixel art and be inspired by local scientists, engineers and mathematicians.

0161 832 2244 / www.mosi.org.uk

What’s on The Manchester Museum The Body Experience 11am – 4pm / Age 8+ / Free, drop in Explore the human body with local scientists.

0161 275 2648 / www.museum.manchester.ac.uk Bollington St John’s CE School, SK10 5LY Toy Sale 10am – 12pm / Adults £1, Children Free More than twenty tables of nearly new toys, baby equipment and clothes. Tea, coffee and cakes too. To book a table email Lizteasdale@yahoo.com or call 07968 826730. www.fcsfed.com

Sat 15 & Sun 16 March

Trentham Monkey Forest, Stoke-on-Trent National Science Weekend 10am – 4pm, last entry 3pm / Adults: £7.50 / Children (3 to 14): £5.50 / Under 3s Free Become a scientist for the weekend as we ask you to become primatologists studying and collecting data from our monkeys! www.trentham-monkey-forest.com

Sun 16 March

Biddulph Grange Garden Children’s Gardening Club 1 – 2.30pm / Age 8 – 12 / Child £3. Learn to grow an array of different fruit and vegetables from seed. Find out how to care for them and then take everything you grow home!

01782 517999 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ biddulph-grange-garden Tegg’s Nose Country Park, Macclesfield Library in the Landscape Birthday Walk 2 – 4pm / Free, but booking essential Help celebrate the 1st Birthday of the ‘Library in the Landscape’ 01625 374833 / www.cheshireeast.gov.uk

Sat 22 March

The Manchester Museum <3MCR Big Sat 11am – 4pm / Free, drop in. Hear the fascinating stories behind the objects at Manchester Museum.

Part of the Manchester Histories Festival.

0161 275 2648 / www.museum.manchester.ac.uk The People’s History Museum The Little PHM – Beeing Special 11am – 12pm / Under 5s / £1 per child, adults free Fun interactive story session with puppets, song, dance and a craft activity. Booking advised.

0161 838 9190 / www.phm.org.uk

Sun 23 March

Altrincham Leisure Centre Local Baby Sale 10am – 12noon / £2 entrance (children free) / Table hire £15. Nearly New Sale – clothes, toys & buggies.

01625 582 150 / www.localbabysale.co.uk Heaton Park, Manchester Paws for St Ann’s 2014 9.30am. A sponsored dog walk around Heaton ark in aid of St Ann’s Hospice. This family fun day out includes a dog show, and features stalls and games to keep the whole family entertained.

0161 498 3631 / www.pawsforstanns.org.uk

Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk 21

What’s on Tytherington High School, SK10 2ED Tythy Tidy Up 1 – 3pm / Free. Join local businesses and organised groups to target litter grot-spots.

Refreshments and small prizes for all volunteers! www.cheshireeast.gov.uk

Wed 26 – Sun 30 March

Little Moreton Hall, Congleton A Merry March 11am – 5pm / Free, but normal admission applies Celebrate Tudor New Year. Plant a seed to grow at home and make something special for Mother’s Day. 01260 272018 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/little-moreton-hall

Fri 28 March & Fri 25 April

The Manchester Museum Magic Carpet 10.30 – 11.30am & 11.30am – 12.30pm / Free, booking essential (from 1 week before) Storymaking and activity session for under 5s and their families/carers. (Young babies welcome with older siblings). 0161 275 2648 / www.museum.manchester.ac.uk

Fri 28 March

The Lowry (The Studio) Under 5s Doodle Tots 10am – 10.45am & 11.15am – 12pm / Ages 2½ – 4½ / £3.50. Paint, stick and make your own works of art in this colourful workshop in The Studio.

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Sat 29 March

Jubilee House, St Pauls Street, Crewe CW1 2QA South Cheshire NCT Nearly New Sale 11.30am - 1pm (11.15am NCT members entry) / £1 entry. Buy or sell nearly new baby and toddler items. To sell: £10 individuals, £20 trade. To book your place contact Jo: southcheshirenctnns@yahoo.co.uk The Heritage Centre, Macclesfield Makers Macc Craft Day 10am – 3pm / Free entry, some activities will have a small charge. Family craft day where you can try a variety of crafts and buy a selection of handmade goods.

01625 613210 / www.silkmacclesfield.org.uk

Sun 30 March

Trentham Monkey Forest, Stoke-on-Trent Monkey Mums 10am – 5pm / Adults: £7.50 / Children (3 to 14): £5.50 / Under 3s Free. Find out more about Monkey Forest’s amazing monkey mums with fascinating fact sheets! www.trentham-monkey-forest.com

Mon 31 March, 14 & 28 April

The National Football Museum, Manchester Let’s Play Toddler 10.30 – 11.30am / £3 per child – booking advised Session consists of physical activity and imaginative movement with songs.

0161 871 8145 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

Thurs 3 April

The John Rylands Library, Manchester Toddler Tales 10.30 – 11.30am / Under 5s / Free – no booking required. Find a cosy corner, pull up a cushion and listen to fun stories. Join in playtime, creating a story world of your own.

0161 306 0555 / www.manchester.ac.uk

These listings are for guidance only – please check before you go To include your upcoming event in our listings, email events@familiescheshire.co.uk

Fri 4 April

The Museum Of Science And Industry (MOSI) Experitots – Music/Make a Noise 10 – 11.30am / under 6s / £3 (1 adult, 1 child, each add child or adult £2) – booking recommended Activity sessions in the hands-on science gallery, Experiment. Fun, creative activities, puppets and storytelling . 0161 833 0027 / www.mosi.org.uk

Fri 4 – Sun 6 April

Manchester Central The Cake & Bake Show 11am – 6pm Fri, 10am – 6pm Sat, 10am – 5pm Sun / Adult: £14.50, Child (5 – 12): £7 Whether you’re a homebaker or professional cake decorator, Great British Bake Off’s biggest fan or a self-proclaimed cake connoisseur, the Cake & Bake Show is the place to be! www.thecakeandbakeshow.co.uk

Daily from Sat 5 April

The Imperial War Museum, North From Street to Trench: A War that Shaped a Region 11am – 12.30pm and 2 – 3.30pm / All ages / Free. Discover the experiences of people from the North West of England during the First World War. Crawl through a front line tunnel to find out how the sewer workers of Manchester were employed for a secret task in France, or play hopscotch on the set of a wartime street. www.iwm.org.uk

Sat 5 April

Dunham Massey, Altrincham Guided Walk – Family Wildlife Walk 11am – 1pm / Normal admission applies / Places limited. Bring all the family to discover Dunham’s deer and other wildlife. Gentle pace – dogs on leads welcome. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunham-massey Honford Hall, Handforth SK9 3HN Handforth Craft Fair 12 – 3pm. Meet Fireman Sam at 12.30, Iggle Piggle & Upsy Daisy at 1.30pm and Bugs Bunny with chocolate treats at 2.30pm.

Children’s author John Aspin book signing, balloon artist, Murray the celebrity owl, crafts, gifts, activities and FREE goodie bags. Harry the fabulous Kidzbus at the Bullshead carpark.

Full details at www.facebook.com/handforthcraftfair

Sat 5 & Sun 6 April

Red House Farm, Altrincham Little Fun Fest 10am – 5pm / Tickets only available in advance / Children under 18 months free. Story times, craft workshops, face painting, walk about entertainers, circus school, Hogwarts Wizardry School and much more. Little Fun Fest aims to provide funsters with their very own festival experience. All activities included in entry price.

0161 941 3480 / www.littlefunfest.co.uk

Sat 5 – Mon 21 April

Red House Farm, Altrincham Easter Holiday Fun 9.30am – 5pm / Age 3 – 8 / Adults & Under 2s free – no booking required. A fun-packed destination with all of our favourite activities.

Can you find all the Easter themed signs hidden around the courtyard? Complete the form and return it to the desk for a prize!

0161 941 3480 / www.redhousefarm.co.uk

22 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

Stockley Farm, Northwich Easter Holidays at Stockley Farm Adult: £9.20 / Child (2 – 16): £8.20 / Under 2s): £1.75 – 10% discount when booking online in advance. Lambs a-plenty, chocolate galore, the start of our sheep racing season, plus lots of baby animals on the way! / Book advance tickets online for a 10% discount.

01565 777323 / www.stockleyfarm.co.uk

Sun 6 April

Blakemere Village, Northwich Children’s Workshop – Decorate a plant pot 10.30am – 12.00 noon / £10.00 including materials. Come and visit dans la maison at Blakemere Craft Centre and decorate a plant pot with Cheshire artist Judith Ede. 07981 56876 / www.danslamaison.co.uk Tabley House, Nr Knutsford Tabley Races 11am (first race 1pm) / Entry to main car park £25 (includes all passengers). Single occupancy £15. A great day out for all the family. 7 races over fences, 2 Pony races, Trade stands, Funfair – rides, slides and amusement stalls.

Food & drink stands. www.tableyraces.co.uk

Sun 6 April & Sun 4 May

The Kingsway School, Cheadle, SK8 1NP Kids Car Boot & Swap Shop 10am – 12pm / Pitch costs £15. Families trade in a fun and safe environment, recycling their unwanted items in the community, grabbing themselves a bargain or selling their unwanted Toys, Games, Books and Clothes and making themselves a little extra money. www.kidscarbootandswapshop.co.uk/

Mon 7 – Fri 11 & Mon 14 – Thurs 17 April

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Funky Chickens Follow the trail of chickens around the Mill or join our hands-on activity to make a funky chicken mobile. 12 – 4pm / 50p per trail (normal admission applies) 01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank

Mon 7 – Fri 25 April (excl weekends & Bank Holiday Mon 21)

Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre Mars Exploration Hands on experiments and interactive science shows. www.jodrellbank.net/families

Tues 8 April

The Grosvenor Museum, Chester Easter Egg You 2 – 4pm, drop in / Free. Ever wondered what you would look like as an Easter egg? Come and find out as you create your very own self-portrait Easter egg. 01244 972197 / www.cheshirewestmuseums.org Delamere Forest, Northwich Little Explorers 10am – 12pm & 1 – 3pm / Age 3 – 5 / £5.70 Ranger-led activities as well as free play – mud kitchen, hammock, tree house, obstacle course, wooden musical instruments, minibeasts hunt, den building and marshmallow toasting. www.forest-explorers.co.uk

The National Football Museum, Manchester Passion Art Trail – Creative Crafts 1 – 4pm / Age 3 – 7 / Free. The Passion Art trail is a city-wide trail that runs throughout Easter with works of art at 6 nearby venues, all inspired by themes in the Easter Passion story. Fold some new life into old football magazines, using origami to make butterflies and other fantastic designs.

0161 871 8145 / www.nationalfootballmuseum.com

Tues 8 – Thurs 17 April (closed Mon 14)

Tatton Park, Knutsford Lambing fortnight at The Farm 12pm – 5pm / Normal farm & park entry charges apply. Will you be lucky enough to see our lambs being born? Informative talks and live viewing via our webcam. Sheepy quiz and collage.

01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Wed 9 April

Delamere Forest, Northwich Basic Bush Craft 10am – 12pm & 1 – 3pm / Age 6+ / £6.70 A basic introduction to bush craft for children.

Advanced Bush Craft 4 – 6pm / Age 7+ / £7.20. Been to our basic bush craft session and want to learn more?

Then Advanced Bush craft is the next step. www.forest-explorers.co.uk The People’s History Museum, Manchester Crafty Co-op Tea Cups 1 - 3pm / Age 5+ / £1, tea cups supplied Design and decorate a tea cup, inspired by The People’s Business exhibition.

0161 838 9190 / www.phm.org.uk The Grosvenor Museum, Chester Discover the Victorian Nursery 11am – 12.30pm & 2 – 4pm, drop in / Free Play with the different toys and games enjoyed by children in Victorian times. Find out all about the special Sunday toys and the nursery rhymes children learnt back then.

01244 972197 / www.cheshirewestmuseums.org Tegg’s Nose Country Park, Macclesfield Tree Decorating 1 – 3pm / £6 – Booking and payment in advance essential. Get crafty this Easter holiday at Tegg’s Nose Country Park! A chance to learn how to make fantastic tree decorations using woven willow 01625 374833 / www.rangerdan.co.uk

Wed 9 & Thurs 10 April

The Weaver Hall Museum, Northwich Prehistoric Pottery 10am – 4pm, drop in / Adult: £3, £1.50 Family (2+2): £7. Discover some of our Bronze Age pottery and make your own pot in the same style. Children must be accompanied.

Activities included in your admission price to museum. 01606 271640 / www.cheshirewestmuseums.org

Remember to check our What’s On Calendar on www.familiescheshire.co.uk regularly, as not all event information is available at the time of going to print.

Thurs 10 April

Blakemere Village, Northwich Children’s Workshop – Paint Easter Bunny Bunting 10.30am – 12 noon / £10 including materials.

Come and visit dans la maison at Blakemere Craft Centre and decorate a plant pot with Cheshire artist Judith Ede. 07981 56876 / www.danslamaison.co.uk Delamere Forest, Northwich Den Building 10.30am – 12 noon & 1.30 – 3pm / Age 5+ / £4.70. A great family bonding session! We challenge you to build a den to fit your whole team in and make it waterproof in the time we set you! All children must be accompanied by an adult (over 18 years) at all times.

Mini Beast Hunt 10 – 11am & 12 – 1pm / Age 2 – 5 / £4.70 A brilliant bug hunt in the forest, children can roll over the logs and mats on the forest floor in search of the little creatures that keep the forest in tip top condition. Information and games about the mini beasts at the end. All children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Mini Beast Hunt & Quiz 2 – 3pm / Age 6+ / £4.70. A new take on our mini beast hunt for the older children who want to learn more about our favourite critters! All children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. www.forest-explorers.co.uk The Grosvenor Museum, Chester Hollywood Handprints 2 – 4pm, drop in / Free Become a superstar and create your own Walk of Fame handprint to take home. Be inspired

by Andy Hollingworth’s photographs of celebrities doing what they do best. 01244 972197 / www.cheshirewestmuseums.org The Heritage Centre, Macclesfield Teenage Art Class: Silkscreen Printing 12.30 – 3.30pm / Age 12 – 16 / £6 – booking essential. Discover the art of silk screen printing and create your own album cover.

01625 613210 / www.silkmacclesfield.org.uk

Thurs 10 & Fri 11 April

The Macclesfield Silk Museum Children’s Craft Club: Springtime Fun 10am – 12noon / Age 6 – 12 / £6 – booking essential. Make giant flowers from a selection of card and papers. Create 3D sheep, pigs and birdsfrom various materials.

01625 612045 / www.silkmacclesfield.org.uk

Fri 11 April

Blakemere Village, Northwich Children’s Workshop – Decorate a display peg board with an Easter design.

10.30am – 12 noon / £10 including materials.

Come and visit dans la maison at Blakemere Craft Centre and decorate a plant pot with Cheshire artist Judith Ede. 07981 56876 / www.danslamaison.co.uk Delamere Forest, Northwich Junior Explorers 11am – 2pm / Age 6+ / £9.20. Woodland activities including arts and crafts, woodland games, stick whittling and s’mores (toasted marshmallow between 2 biscuits!) around the fire at the end of the session. Adults can stay and join in or leave children for the session. www.forest-explorers.co.uk

Sat 12 April

The Manchester Cathedral Be A Chorister for a Day 2.15 – 5.30pm / Age 7 – 10 (must be accompanied) / Free, but booking essential. The day includes a visit to Chetham’s School of Music, singing with the cathedral choristers, activities and a short service at 5pm.

0161 833 2220 ext. 238 / www.manchestercathedral.org

Sat 12 – Sun 27 April

Chatsworth House, Chatsworth Easter Celebrations 10.30am – 5.30pm (last entry 4.30pm) / Horse and dray rides: £2 pp / Easter Eggspress £2.50 pp. Join us for Easter in the house, garden and farmyard, and make sure you look out for the Easter Bunny, who will be in the garden and farmyard during the bank holiday weekend.

01246 565300 / www.chatsworth.org

Sat 12 & Sun 13 April

Stretton Watermill, (near Farndon) Your Country Needs You 12 noon – 5pm / Adults: £2 Children: 75p Family (2 +2): £4.75. Discover what life was like in the area as the shadow of war loomed and find out how life at the mill changed with the outbreak of conflict. Recreation of a First World War recruiting desk. 01606 271640 / www.cheshirewestmuseums.org

Sun 13 April

Biddulph Grange Garden Children’s Gardening Club 1 – 2.30pm / Age 8 – 12 / Child £3. Learn to grow an array of different fruit and vegetables from seed. Find out how to care for them and then take everything you grow home!

01782 517999 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ biddulph-grange-garden

Mon 14 & Tues 15 April

Delamere Forest, Northwich Teddy Bear’s Picnic 10am – 12pm & 1 – 3pm / Age 2 – 5 / £5.70 A special Easter Egg Hunt themed Teddy Bears Picnic – build a den for teddy, make him a friend and a special forest drink! Bring your own picnic and rug. www.forest-explorers.co.uk

The People’s History Museum, Manchester The Little PHM – Mr Ordinary’s Prize 11am – 12pm / Under 5s / £1 per child, adults free – booking advised. Fun interactive story session with puppets, song, dance and a craft activity.

0161 838 9190 / www.phm.org.uk

Tues 15 & Wed 16 April

The Congleton Museum Easter Workshop – Eggstrordinary 10.30am – 12pm, and 1 – 2.30 pm / Age 5 – 11 / £4 Great arty workshop.

01260 276360 / www.congletonmuseum.co.uk

Wed 16 April

Bellis Brothers Farm Shop & Garden Centre, Wrexham Children’s Planting Workshop 10 – 11am / Age 6 – 10 / £2.50 per child (includes a drink and a cookie) – booking essential. Learn how to plant up and look after your own little seedling.

01829 270302 / www.bellisbrothers.co.uk Lyme Park, Disley Edwardian Sports 1 – 3pm / All ages / Normal entry and Garden admission applies. Test your skills at Lyme’s Edwardian Sports Day: tug of war, egg and spoon, sack race and hill rolling. 01663 762023 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme-park The People’s History Museum, Manchester Screen-print a Snazzy Shopper 1 – 3pm / Age 7+ / £1. Be inspired by The People’s Business exhibition and screen-print your own co-op themed shopping bag.

0161 838 9190 / www.phm.org.uk The Grosvenor Museum, Chester Sing a Song of Sixpence 20 minute sessions at 2pm, 2.30pm, 3pm & 3.30pm / Free. Join library Rhyme-Time staff for well-known nursery rhymes in the Museum Art Gallery. Then make a pie with a blackbird which will ‘fly’ out of it.

01244 972197 / www.cheshirewestmuseums.org

What’s on Tegg’s Nose Country Park Xplorer 1 – 3pm / Free, but booking by 12 April is essential Explore the park, find the markers, complete the challenge, have fun together – a fun family challenge aimed at primary and pre-school children and their parents, grandparents and guardians.

01625 374833 / www.cheshireeast.gov.uk

Wed 16 & Thurs 17 April

The Weaver Hall Museum & Workshouse, Northwich Creepy Tales 10am – 4pm, drop in / Adult: £3, £1.50 Family (2+2): £7. Hear some tales of strange encounters and make a spooky mask to take away.

Children must be accompanied. Activities included in your admission price to museum.

01606 271640 / www.cheshirewestmuseums.org

Thurs 17 April

Brereton Heath Local Nature Reserve Xplorer 1 – 3pm / Free, but booking by 12 April is essential Explore the park, find the markers, complete the challenge, have fun together – a fun family challenge aimed at primary and pre-school children and their parents, grandparents and guardians.

01477 534115 / www.cheshireeast.gov.uk Tatton Park, Knutsford Chocolate Heaven!

10am – 12pm / Age 8 – 12 / £18. Get ready for Easter with a fun-filled morning, making a range of delicious chocolate treats in the Mansion kitchens. Explore the history and science of chocolate as you prepare your creations and take them home to enjoy.

01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk The Grosvenor MuseumChester Easter Egg Baskets 2 – 4pm, drop in / Free. Make a gift basket and fill it with chocolate eggs to give to your favourite person on Easter Sunday. 01244 972197 / www.cheshirewestmuseums.org

Tues 15 April

Tatton Park, Knutsford Children’s Cycling Boredom Busters 10am – 1.30pm / Age 7+ / £10. Fundamentals of off-road skills, including a bike-safety check. Explore farmland trails and woodland single-tracks.

Bike helmets compulsory.

01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk Chester Zoo Children’s Willow Sculpture Workshop 10am – 12pm & 1 – 3pm / Age 5+ / £9 (incl materials, excl zoo admission). Learn the traditional art of Willow Sculpting in this wonderful workshop for children at Oakfield Manor. In celebration of our Bloom festival the workshop will focus on creating a sculpture of a bird. All children must be supervised by an adult during the workshop.

01244 380280 / www.chesterzoo.org The Grosvenor Museum, Chester Easter Chicks 2 – 4pm, drop in / Free. Make an egg-cellent fluffy pompom chick sitting on a box of chocolate eggs.

01244 972197 / www.cheshirewestmuseums.org

Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk 23

What’s on

These listings are for guidance only – please check before you go To include your upcoming event in our listings, email events@familiescheshire.co.uk Fri 18 April

Spinningfields, Manchester, M3 3HF Manchester Duck Race 2014 Family fun from 11am / Family ducks cost £1 – book yours at www.ticketsource.co.uk/brainwave A Quacking Day Out! The big race is at 2pm with a special film screening at 3pm. www.spinningfieldsonline.com

The John Rylands Library, 150 Deansgate, Manchester Here be dragons!

12 – 1pm / Age 5 – 10 / Free. The walls and ceilings of the Library are full of strange and mysterious creatures – join our tour to seek them out!

0161 306 0555 / www.manchester.ac.uk

Sat 19 April

Sat 26 & Sun 27 April

Haydock Park Racecourse Easter Saturday Family Day Gates open 12 noon / Under 17s go free Bring the whole family for a fantastic day out featuring loads of FREE entertainment for the children, ranging from bouncy castles, funfair rides, face painters, Easter fun and more ... plus of course, first-class racing for the adults too!

01942 725963 / www.haydock-park.co.uk

Sat 19 – Mon 21 April

Tatton Park, Knutsford Easter Crafts and Country Shopping Fair 10.30am – 5pm. / Free entry to the fair. Park entry charge applies.

Packed with home décor and furnishing ideas, arts and crafts and gifts for the family. www.countrywide-events.co.uk Easter Story time Once upon a time story telling takes place throughout the weekend in the gardens, the mansion, at the farm and in the stableyard.

Lindt Gold Bunny prize for all children taking part in our Lindt Gold Bunny activities throughout the Easter holiday. Normal opening times / Normal entry prices and opening times apply.

01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk Chester Racecourse The Giant Chester Food, Drink & Lifestyle Festival 10am – 5pm / Adults £6 (£8 on the day), Children Under 12 Free. A great family day out.

01244 304600 / chesterfoodanddrink.co.uk

Sun 20 April

Eaton Estate, Eccleston Eaton Hall Gardens Charity Open Day 10.30am to 5pm / Adults £6, Children £1.50 Refreshments and light bites available with all proceeds to chosen charities. Ride on the Eaton Railway powered by Katie the engine.

Tickets for morning trains are sold from 10.30am and for afternoon trains from 1.30pm. Falconry and Gun Dog displays.

01244 684400 / www.eatonestate.co.uk

Fri 25 April

The Lowry Under 5s Doodle Tots Enjoy painting, sticking and making your own works of art in this colourful workshop in The Studio. 10am – 10.45am & 11.15am – 12pm / Age 2½ – 4½ / £3.50 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Sat 26 April

The Manchester Museum Big Saturday: Plants, Poisons, Platypuses 11am – 4pm / Free, drop in A day of discovery. Find out more about the adaptations and characteristics plants and animals use to survive and how humans have learned from nature. Meet scientists and get hands on and do some experiments of your own. Get crafty and create your own paper creatures to take away. 0161 275 2648 / www.museum.manchester.ac.uk

24 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

Sandbach Park Sandbach Transport Festival Static display of classic and interesting cars on the Sandbach Common on Sat 26 April.

Parade, and static car display at The Old Hall on Sun 27 April. A range of fun activities on both days in Sandbach Park, including the popular Birds of Prey demonstration. bouncy castle and fairground, music festival (The Cobbles) and hog roast (Old Market Square) www.sandbachtransportfestival.co.uk

Thurs 1 – Mon 5 May

Little Moreton Hall, Congleton May Day 11am –5pm / Free but normal admission applies.

A celebration of springtime as we decorate and dance around the may pole.

01260 272018 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/little-moreton-hall

Sat 3 – Mon 5 May

Stockley Farm, Northwich Bank Holiday weekend Celebrate your 3 day weekend with us. Book advance tickets online for a 10% discount.

01565 777323 / www.stockleyfarm.co.uk Lyme Park, Disley Kites at The Cage 11am – 4pm / Free event. Normal admission charges apply. Bring your own kite to show off your skills in our mass kite flying event at the Cage.

01663 762023 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme-park Rudyard Lake Steam Railway, Leek Lollipop Steam Special 11am – 4pm (on the hour) / Return train fare prices are: Adult £4.00 Child (2 – 12) £2.50 (children under 2 travel free). A family friendly day out. Free Lollipops for kids! No booking needed.

01995 672280 / www.rlsr.org

Mon 5 May

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal A Victorian May Day 11am – 4pm / Free event (normal admission applies) Celebrate May Day at the Mill with dressing up, live music and entertainment including a Punch and Judy and a traditional Maypole.

01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank Delamere Forest, Northwich Teddy Edward’s Rainbow Walk 10.30am – 12pm & 1.30 – 3pm / Up to age 6 / £5.20. Krysia Chrzanowska-Hunt is coming up specially to read her book ‘Teddy Edwards Rainbow Walk’ at the place where it all began – HERE – at Delamere Forest! Bring a teddy (and a picnic) and join Teddy Edward in a fun session of singing, story-telling and outdoor activities to celebrate his return to the forest.

Books available for sale, with book signing by the author, after the event. www.forest-explorers.co.uk