Families Cheshire Issue 45 Jan-Feb 2017

Edition 45 • Jan/Feb 2017

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

@FamCheshMag facebook.com/familiescheshire

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In this issue > Make maths FUN! > Home alone: leaving your child in charge > Scouting: skills for life Covering: Poynton, Wilmslow, Alderley Edge, Knutsford, Prestbury, Macclesfield, Congleton, Holmes Chapel, Sandbach, Northwich, Winsford, Crewe, Nantwich, Tarporley, Waverton, Chester and surrounding areas

News In this issue 02: News

Geronimo 2017 – bigger and better than ever!

04: Parties 05: Education 08: Parents’ place 10: Clubs & classes 12: What’s on

Hello!

The older we get, the faster the years fly. We’re so busy watching our children grow that we get quite startled when we catch a glimpse of our own aging faces in the mirror!

But luckily with age comes wisdom (we hope!), and the realisation that we’ve done a pretty good job so far considering there’s no degree in parenting. Our kids are happy, loved and flourishing and that’s all we can really ask for.

So here’s wishing you all: 12 months of success 52 weeks of laughter 365 days of fun 8760 hours of joy 525600 minutes of good luck And 31536000 seconds of happiness Happy 2017!

Caryl Hall

Jayne Keep

Next issue: Mar/Apr 2017

Families Cheshire is part of Families Magazines Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.

Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Cheshire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher.

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.

Circulation: 25,000 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.familiesonline.co.uk Editorial: editor@familiescheshire.co.uk Advertising/artwork: advertising@familiescheshire.co.uk Events, diary dates, what’s on: events@familiescheshire.co.uk

The ever-popular Geronimo Festival will be back for its third year in May (27 – 29), promising a whole weekend full of amazing acts and activities.

Taking place in the stunning, expansive grounds at Arley Hall in Northwich, this year families will be able to take advantage of camping and glamping so they can enjoy a mini holiday at the event.

The ultimate family festival will play host to a huge array of CBeebies, CBBC and ITV stars who will take centre stage throughout the day and be on hand to keep their young fans entertained.

This year, older children will also be treated to a Digital Zone where they can meet their favourite YouTubers and Gamers as well as try their hand at all the latest tech. Geronimo guests will

Save the date………

Cover Photography: kidsbeingkids, 07707 830286 / www.kidsbeingkids.co.uk Design: Paul Wilson Graphic Design, Congleton.

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

@FamCheshMag

Print: Bishops Printers, Walton Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO6 1TR Tel: 023 9233 4900 www.bishops.co.uk

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Private schools to offer 10,000 free places to children from lower-income backgrounds

Private schools will offer to provide up to 10,000 free school places a year to children from low-income families in England.

The Independent Schools Council (ISC) says if the government pays £5,550 per place – the cost of a place in the state system – the remainder of the cost will be covered by the schools.

The ISC was responding to pressure from the government to do more for their state school counterparts in return for charitable status, which allows for tax breaks. The scheme, which would test some children on academic ability, would be open to primary and secondary school-age children.

2 Families Cheshire | www.familiesonline.co.uk

also be treated to two full Circuses, a Theatre Tent and a Show Ground Arena with lots of displays including motorcycles, jousting and fencing.

For the active kid, there’s so much to cram in including mobile climbing walls, cardboard harp workshops and a Bear Grylls Assault Course. In fact there are literally hundreds of activities to enjoy and something for kids of all ages (and big kids too!).

Take advantage of the unique Early Bird offer which is available until the end of January with family tickets available at £16.50. As a thank you to loyal festival goers, repeat guests will also be treated to a free wrist band ride for Geronimo’s Fun Fair. www.geronimofest.com

Pencil Friday 31 March 2017 in your diary in big, bold writing because Wear A Hat Day is back for the eighth time and it will be EVEN HATTIER than last year. Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer… yet just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease.

Brain Tumour Research is the only national UK charity that funds sustainable research into finding a cure.

Wear A Hat Day is the premier brain tumour awareness event, and is a great way to show your support and raise money for brain tumour research during a day of hat-filled fun and games.

Buy a hat, make a hat, take a photo and share it online #HATTASTIC Register now and start planning your event. They’ll send you an exclusive pack of fundraising goodies – including leaflets, posters, balloons and any other merchandise you ordered at time of registering – in plenty of time for your Wear A Hat Day. Stuck for ideas? Their Hatter’s Workshop online at www.wearahatday.org is brim-ming with inspiration: event ideas, quizzes, additional poster designs and much more! Top 10 event ideas and fundraising tips are also available on their website. So get those thinking caps on, and start counting down to 31 March. Together we will find a cure. www.braintumourresearch.org

News National Storytelling Week

Kyte Photography

To mark National Storytelling Week (28 January – 4 February), international best-selling author Joanne Harris spoke to Families about life as a writer, how storytelling has evolved through social media, and gives her advice for those with a passion for writing stories.

The success of Chocolat kick-started your career as an author – was it an easy decision to retire from teaching?

Writing is generally a job that doesn’t make a lot of money, and nearly all writers have another job. For my first three published books I was a teacher and if one of my books hadn’t been unexpectedly successful I would have stayed a teacher. When you reach a certain level of success it’s very difficult to do the two things at once, so I gave up teaching. I thought then temporarily, and it turned out to be permanent. But it could have been different.

How did it feel when you found out that Chocolat was being made into a film?

I didn’t believe it at first, because books get optioned all the time, but very rarely do they end up making films. I started to pay attention when they started filming, and when they invited me on set, when it was clear something was actually happening. By then it didn’t really have much to do with me, so I was able to enjoy it in a different way. It was very nicely done, the cast was great, the direction was great, the score was great, and they deserved the success it had.

Do you ever meet people and think they would make a great character in a book?

I’m borrowing from people all the time. It’s part of being a writer, using the experiences you have with people and conversations; things you’ve noticed about them, and you filter them through this process. I don’t think I’ve ever actually put someone in a book, but I think we all borrow extensively from other people around us.

How long does it usually take you to write a book?

I’m usually working on more than one thing.

Some have taken me 10 years to finish, some only one. Some I’ve started and then finished 5, 10 or 15 years later. I tend to start things off and then quite often put them on the back burner for a bit, work on something else and then go back. Sometimes I just need to let it lie, do some research, or work out a plot construction.

Should you let your child use a tablet?

A newly-launched research project aims to discover the influence technology has on children’s learning, social interactions and play, from birth to 47 months – and parents are invited to join in.

Dr Elena Hoicka and PhD students from the University of Sheffield’s Department of Psychology are looking to discover whether technology, such as tablets, is good for children’s development, bad, or a bit of both.

The survey asks questions about how long children used different types of

technology – such as a tablet or a television – the previous day. It also asks questions about how children prefer to learn, what children understand about other people, and whether and how children engage in pretend play.

Parents of children with low activities levels, such as newborns, are also invited to participate, as the researchers are interested in how technology impacts children right from the beginning. All participants will then be invited to repeat the survey six months later, which allows researchers to determine whether or not technology has had an impact.

At the end of the survey, parents will receive a summary of their child’s learning style, social understanding, and play. For every parent who completes the survey twice, six months apart, £2 will be donated to UNICEF. It only takes around 20-30 minutes to register and complete the survey. To sign up or read more, go to www.babylovesscience.com.

You’re very active on social media, do you think this new digital age we’re living has changed the way people tell stories?

I think it’s had an impact on the whole of the book business in a lot of ways, some good, some bad. What it has done is given us more access to each other and provides a much more interactive side to telling stories. I tell my #Storytime stories on Twitter, and you really feel as if you’re talking to people, because it’s a very conversational medium, which is its charm.

It’s National Storytelling Week in January.

What advice would you give to children or adults if they have a passion for writing and want to take it to the next level?

To be a professional writer you have to write, a lot, and understand that a lot of it will be bad but practice makes you better.

So start writing, and don’t worry too much about where you are heading. Also read a lot, because the more you read the more you realise how writing works and why it’s good and why it fails, and just keep improving all the time.

Have you faced any challenges when writing books, and what did you learn from them?

It’s useful to keep an open mind. There is no way you can please everyone all the time. Learn to live with criticism even if you think it is unfair and still do what you are doing. If you are absolutely convinced that

your book is a masterpiece, but people read it and think it’s rubbish, then there’s probably some truth in it. However, keep believing you can do it, learn from mistakes, acknowledge them and move on.

Do you have any new books or projects that our readers can look out for?

I’ve got an illustrated book of the Storytime stories coming out, hopefully next year, called Honeycomb. I’m also working on a sequel to The Gospel of Loki, which hopefully will come out the year after next. I’ve also got another illustrated project, which may or may not come out next year.

Favourite childhood book(s)/author?

Ray Bradbury - Something Wicked This Way Comes Favourite character you’ve created?

The villain in Gentlemen and Players Favourite book/story you’ve written?

The Gospel of Loki Favourite writing drink?

Tea Favourite writing food?

Toast The best thing about being an author?

Spending my life doing something I love, and getting it out to people who also love it.

For more information on Joanne Harris and her work, go to www.joanne-harris.co.uk

Dippy on tour

The Natural History Museum’s star attraction, Dippy the diplodocus, is set to tour the UK for three years from 2018. Eight carefully selected venues nationwide have been chosen to host the 70ft reconstructed dinosaur, and it’ll take more than a year to prepare him for his journey.

Closest to home to host the iconic dinosaur is Number One Riverside in Rochdale, with the actual dates still to be confirmed.

He’ll make his first stop at the Dorset County Museum in February 2018, followed by Ulster Museum, the

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow, the Great North Museum in Newcastle, the National Assembly of Wales, Number One Riverside in Rochdale and Norwich Cathedral. The exhibit will be free to view.

A team of experts will be tasked with disassembling and reconstructing him at every stop and it’s estimated that 1.5 million people will have seen Dippy by the time his tour ends in late 2020.

Dippy is being replaced by the real skeleton of a blue whale at the Natural History Museum from January 2017.

Families Families Cheshire Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk | www.familiesonline.co.uk 3

Parties

When it comes to parties, Families is your one stop go-to resource. We’re limited by how much we can include in our magazine, but head online (www.familiesonline.co.uk) for everything you need – from local party planners to not-so-creepy clowns and cake makers.

Our list of local services and party planners is sure to make your child’s birthday party one to remember! And don’t forget to let them know you found them in Families!

4 Families Cheshire | www.familiesonline.co.uk

Education How to make maths fun for kids

Numeracy targets are fundamental to both the National Curriculum and to primary school testing and that can seem as intimidating to you as to your child. But there are some simple strategies you can put in place that can make maths more fun and less daunting. The way the subject is taught in schools has changed fundamentally over the past few years so, who knows?

You may end up learning something new, too!

Do your homework Before you can support your child’s maths learning at home, you’ll need to find out about the way they learn maths at school. Do some homework on modern maths methods like number lines and gridding, and find out whether your child’s school offers maths support classes for parents. If not, there are some excellent resources available

online like the family maths toolkit from national numeracy or the ‘Maths for Mums and Dads’ books by Mike Askew and Rob Eastaway.

Maths by stealth There are plenty of ways you can incorporate maths into everyday life, which is an excellent way of letting children know how important numeracy skills are outside of the classroom. Next time you have a cake or a pizza, ask them to divide it into quarters or thirds or an even number of portions for the number of people eating it. Baking isn’t just a pleasurable activity to do with your kids, it’s one of the very best ways of embedding the importance of weights and measures. They’ll also need to keep an eye on the clock to know when their goodies are ready to come out of the oven. Meanwhile, every time you go to the shops, encourage them to add as they go and then make their best estimate of the final bill. From

calculating the change they should receive when they buy an ice cream to keeping score in a friendly game of football, everyday maths really is everywhere!

Make tech and tables count There are numerous maths apps available for children of all ages, from simple counting games to more advanced calculations. Doodle Maths and Mr Thorne’s Maths Universe should get even committed young mathphobes practising their numeracy on their tablets and smartphones. Percy Parker Sing Your Times Tables and Squeebles Times Tables are both excellent apps for embedding times tables in young brains. Why not try singing along with Percy Parker on your next long car journey? For older children facing their end of primary school tests, ensure that they know not just the multipliers but the divisors too, up to 12 x 12.

Try gamification In other words, get out some old fashioned board games. Children learn best when an activity is fun, and they’re usually unaware that they’re learning through playing games. Dominoes is an excellent game for practising basic maths concepts, as is Snakes and Ladders. They’ll be having too much fun to notice they’re adding and subtracting and recognising basic number patterns.

For older children, Monopoly introduces more sophisticated numeracy skills and Scrabble is a brilliant way to practise both numeracy and literacy. Board games are also valuable for introducing related concepts like strategy, logic and reasoning skills into the mix.

Make it more formal As your children’s maths skills progress, you can begin to make their home learning more formalised. There are any number of online maths resources available and your school may encourage at-home use of a programme like Mathletics to challenge and reinforce skills learned in the classroom. These online resources usually feature progressive levels so you can easily track your child’s progress but do check before you sign up to a paid programme that it’s compatible with the National Curriculum. Although it’s easy to assume that children will prefer working on the computer, many also enjoy age-appropriate workbooks, with stickers to reward their progress.

Learn with and from your children As the family maths toolkit points out, maths is not a can or cannot subject, but something we can all improve, however old we are. When your children start to bring home maths homework, take the opportunity to learn about new maths concepts from them and show them real world examples of how to put those skills into practice – by checking your shopping or phone bill. Encourage them to contextualise a newly acquired skill by putting it into practice around the home, whether it’s telling you the time their favourite TV show comes on or estimating how long their bath takes to run. And always praise their effort rather than their talent, to reinforce the message that by working hard anyone can improve their maths skills.

To find out more about helping your child learn visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk/education

Ensuring a strong foundation in maths and English The tutoring market in the UK is burgeoning. Figures published at the end of last year suggest that one in four children have sought private tuition and supplementary education to support them at school.

The benefit of reinforcing lessons at school with an outside provider is that it allows parents to ensure their child is keeping up with their peers, and/or is being stretched to surpass levels in the classroom.

For the first time this year, Year 11 pupils are required to resit English and

maths GCSEs if they did not score a C grade, and with just 35.9% of school leavers achieving a C or above, the overall pass rate has dropped.

Kumon Educational offers maths and English programmes for children of all ages and abilities. The ultimate aim is to encourage students to take learning into their own hands and develop a firm foundation in these key subjects to ensure success at school and beyond.

Visit Kumon.co.uk or call 0800 854 714 to find out more.

Families Cheshire | www.familiesonline.co.uk 5

Education Take the fear out of exams in 2017

Here are a few of Explore Learning’s top tips: Plan ahead – This is the key to kick-starting any successful exam preparation. Blocking out periods of time to ‘cram’ for an exam might save time but it won’t assist your child’s retention of information long term.

Revisiting a range of subject areas in

manageable, weekly chunks can be much more beneficial to supporting memory, skills, and confidence.

Find the right way for your child - It is important to understand that everyone learns and revises in their own way.

Some children like to visualise their work so sticky notes around the house and visual representations might be useful, whereas others will respond better to you asking them questions and to explain a paragraph in their own words. Some children will switch on bright and early, while others will be ready to learn later on in the day. Find the learning style and pattern that works for your child, with their input, and create a plan to suit their individual need.

Positive thinking - Finally, be sure to remain positive throughout exam preparations and praise them when you see them accomplish something great: hearing things like “brilliant reading” or “you’ve done a fantastic job explaining that method to me” will undoubtedly build their self-belief.

Explore Learning is able to support both you and your child from day one. As well as tailored maths and English tuition from their expert staff, they run relevant workshops and parent information evenings for their families throughout the year so that everyone feels as confident as possible at home, especially when exams are around the corner!

For more advice and top tips to support your child’s exam preparation this year, and to book your free trial at your local centre, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk.

on scientific research and helps to demystify the workings of the brain.

This enables children to understand their own character and strengths in order to build positive relationships with themselves and their peers.

Whether through in class exercises or homework extension materials, the myHappymind interface also allows parents to get involved with the project.

Helen Jeys, Headmistress at the school, commented, “We have a responsibility to prepare our girls for life beyond the classroom and by teaching them how their brains work and how they can develop their character we can create a generation of children who have the ability to manage their own mental wellbeing. It

is our hope that this programme will help our pupils to thrive and be resilient in childhood and beyond. We are extremely excited to be starting this project with our Year 1 girls later this year.”

Laura Earnshaw, founder of myHappymind, enthused, “We cannot wait to launch myHappymind at Alderley Edge School for Girls. The school is renowned for its outstanding pastoral care and wellbeing and therefore, it is no surprise that they are the first school in Cheshire to partner with us.”

AESG’s next Nursery & Pre-School Taster Session is on Thursday 30 March (9.30 – 11.30am). For more info call Julie Bedigan on 01625 583028 or email jbedigan@aesg.co.uk. www.aesg.co.uk

We all know that the lead up to exam season can be a daunting and stressful time for child and parent.

With children encountering phonics screening checks, teacher assessments and SATs by the time they reach the end of primary school, you might wonder how best to support your child through exams - and you certainly aren’t alone! In a recent, independent study by Explore Learning, while 90% of British parents said exam results are important to their child’s future, only 1 in 4 parents felt their child’s exam performance actually reflects their true ability, and 2 in 3 parents admitted that their child has suffered from exam stress.

Although there is no magic formula for exam success, there are many ways to help children feel prepared and confident about assessments.

AESG leads the way

Alderley Edge School for Girls is delighted to announce a partnership with myHappymind, an innovative programme which helps to develop and encourage positive mental wellbeing in children.

The School regards its duties in caring for developing minds very seriously and it’s not just the academic development of girls that it considers a priority, but also their mental health.

The myHappymind initiative is based

6 Families Cheshire | www.familiesonline.co.uk

Education The benefits of mindfulness in children The past two decades have seen an abundance of research, and hundreds of studies conducted, about the increasingly popular practice of mindfulness. Countless results of said studies have shown a great increase in stress, so much so that some Fortune 500 companies in the US for instance, have even employed mindfulness coaches to benefit their employees.

Specific programs for businesses around the globe have been created for their employees to help reduce stress, keep employees’ minds fresh and focused and in turn able to perform better at work and of course be happier and healthier from the inside out.

But, just what is mindfulness? And does it have the same positive effect on younger children, specifically those between the ages of three and 11?

What is mindfulness?

In short, mindfulness is a simplistic program of meditative activities. It is a simple, yet powerful observation free from criticism and is a new and improved way of seeing what is happening to us in our lives. Although very effective once learnt, mindfulness does of course not rid you of everyday problems and pressures, yet it does, however, provide you with the tools and mindset needed to

handle them in a calmer way. This calmer way has been said to benefit not only your mind but also your heart and body, thus providing an improved way of life and a greater sense of clarity and focus.

How can mindfulness help young children?

Extensive research has shown that mindfulness can help children between the ages of three and 11. If we take a look at the developmental changes that occur within children, the physical changes and events such as starting school, socialising, and simply learning about life, it makes perfect sense to equip youngsters with tools on how to deal with their emotions, and how to develop a positive outlook on life with mindfulness skills. Children can learn vital stress-relieving skills such as breathing techniques, mindful hearing and listening. If children struggle with an emotion or getting angry they can revert to mindfulness techniques to learn how to deal with, and control, those emotions.

Mindfulness and autism, ADHD and ADD The Autism Research and Treatment study undertaken by Sequeira is a piece of research that supports the notion that mindfulness meditation has a great positive effect on children with autism. To be mindful helps one keep focused in a precise moment.

Taking medication for autism, ADHD or ADD does not have long-term benefits, however, mindfulness can help long term given it is practised daily and part of one’s lifestyle, not only for children but also for adults.

Parents and/or carers who look after children with such disorders can often find themselves dealing with stress, so things such as meditation and mindful thinking can help reduce the effects of stress, thus enabling them to deal with situations in a calmer, more helpful way, to themselves and children.

Some of those with autism suffer from psychological imbalances, such as lack of rhythm. Children who struggle with this can have difficulty when trying to balance the inner and outer world, which can result in issues with interaction or distorted relationships.

One area of mindfulness that may benefit these children is Mantra Meditation. This type of meditation is all about repetition, such as repeating a sound or repeating a movement or word. It’s this calm and harmonising meditation that can help to restore the child’s sense of rhythm.

Can mindfulness help your child thrive at school?

It’s a sad and somewhat worrying fact that more and more children are feeling the stress and pressure of school life. With a

push to succeed academically, to make friends or even anxieties related to changing or starting new schools, these pressures are simply no good for our children.

With this in mind it’s no surprise that teachers, carers and parents are looking towards proven methods of mindfulness to protect and nurture their youngsters’ mental and general wellbeing.

Some children find short yoga routines at the start or end of their day a great way to clear their mind and relax, as well as stay in tune with their mind and bodies. These sorts of activities are perfect for all ages, from very young children to the elderly.

Children who are undertaking exams may find yoga a much-needed break from studying, as even 10 minutes’ practice can provide great clarity and help to re-focus the mind.

Many practitioners are encouraging schools and parents to practise mindfulness with their children due to the plethora of proven benefits to all.

For instance, Susan Kaiser Greenland has published a study named “Mindful Revolution in Education”. This informative piece goes into more detail on the ways in which mindfulness programs for children can help create a more compassionate, calmer youngster with good practices.

For more information, visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk/wellbeing

Families Cheshire | www.familiesonline.co.uk 7

Parents’ place The little guide to little bilingual brains

By Dr Evelyne Mercure Every family and every child is different. There are a million different ways of raising bilingual children and the most important is to find a way that feels right for your family. Here are a few tips that can help making these decisions for your family.

Infants and young children have an impressive capacity for learning languages. They are curious, very eager to communicate and their brains are designed for fast learning. Bilingual families have an interesting opportunity of making the most of these early learning capacities in teaching their children two languages from birth. There are several interesting advantages to raising bilingual children.

1. Bilingualism does not cause language delays. Bilingual children usually learn two languages at the same pace as monolingual children are learning one. For example, bilinguals say their first words and start combining words into sentences at the same age as monolinguals.

Bilinguals may sometimes appear to know less words than monolinguals, but this is usually because their vocabulary is divided between two languages.

2. Learning two languages encourages children to think about languages.

Young monolinguals might struggle to recognise that ‘caterpillar’ is a bigger word than ‘whale’ because they find it difficult to dissociate a word from its

Play it safe

Remember the good old days when you could play ball games safely in quiet streets? Do you remember the game Kerby (also known as Curby or Curb Ball)?

Well it’s back! And it’s better than ever as it’s now portable, environmentally friendly (made in the UK from recycled PVC) and designed

by Manchester dad of two, Paul East!

meaning. Bilingualism attracts children’s attention to language itself, making children more aware of the sounds, words and regularities in languages.

This gives them a head start in school when learning phonics or grammar rules.

3. Bilingualism might make your child better at multi-tasking or listening to someone speaking in a noisy environment. When speaking one of their languages, bilinguals must inhibit the impulse to use words in their other language. To achieve this task, they activate parts of their brain involved in cognitive control. This extra practice at controlling their own thoughts may lead to a ‘bilingual advantage’ in certain cognitive tasks.

4. Mastering two languages will give children a better understanding of their family’s cultural background.

The most unique aspects of a culture always risk getting lost in translation.

For this reason, being bilingual helps children become ‘bicultural’, making them more aware of cultural differences and more likely to take part in two cultures.

Great fun for all the family, Kurby® can be played safely anywhere – in the garden, at the park, school or beach. There are lots of different games you can play too – no matter what your age or skill level.

Try regular Kurby, Kurby rounders (mixture of rounders and dodgeball), Kurby stepup and Kurby knockout, to name but a few.

Two base units plus the ball and grass fixings cost £40 and as they’re heavy duty and hard wearing (designed to be either fixed temporarily to grass or permanently to parks or playgrounds), you know they’re made to last.

To find out more, and to order, go to www.kurby.co.uk

8 Families Cheshire | www.familiesonline.co.uk

1. Maximise face-to-face communication. From the first days of life, babies love making eye contact and hearing their loved ones speak, vocalise and sing. Face-toface communication is the motor of language learning and early experience is key. Making sure you talk to your baby as much as possible, and involving your child in as much conversation as possible will lead to better abilities in one, two or more languages.

2. Have a plan. It is important to think about what ‘bilingualism’ means for your family. Would you like your child to have a basic understanding of another language? Are you hoping for your child to be fluent in two languages? Or read and write in two different languages? Make sure you provide plenty of experience for your child to achieve each of these goals.

It might be a good idea to decide on a language to be used at home. One parent may decide to use one language when addressing their child, while the other parent will use a different language. Think of the language(s) you want to use when reading to your child or singing to them. The more exposure your child will get in one language, the more fluent they are likely to become in that language.

3. Keep it fun. Your child’s motivation to learn each of their languages will make a huge difference to their achievement. A child may find it unpleasant if they feel constantly tested and criticised when speaking.

The main focus should be on what is being said and not how it is being said.

4. Find role models. One way of keeping their motivation up, may be to involve people who are not fluent in your child’s dominant language.

This may encourage them to use a language they are less comfortable in. It will also show them that this language is spoken by people other than mum and/or dad. Children will also learn a lot from other children, especially older ones. They will want to speak like them and adopt their accent and expressions. Cousins who are not fluent in your child’s dominant language, for instance, may become excellent role models and a very good source of motivation.

Offering a bilingual environment to your child is a richness they will benefit from all their life. They may not only learn two languages, but also a new way of thinking about cultural diversity. Do not be afraid of making the most of their incredible language learning abilities!

About the author: Evelyne Mercure studied Speech & Language Pathologies, Neuroscience and Psychology. She is currently an ESRC fellow at UCL Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, investigating the impact of language experience on infants’ brain and cognitive development. She is also the proud mum of three bilingual children.

Parents’ place When should you leave your child home alone?

Over the past few years there has been huge debate around when children should be left home alone.

Knowing when your growing child is responsible enough to be left alone, even for a short time, can be difficult and there is no law that governs when this might be appropriate. For parents, in the absence of any hard and fast rules, knowing when it’s the right time to allow your children more responsibility can be tricky.

What the law says The Government’s advice is to follow NSPCC guidelines, although you are advised never to leave your child alone when they are ‘at risk’ and you may be prosecuted for neglect if you leave an unsupervised child ‘in a manner likely to cause unnecessary suffering or injury to health.’

The NSPCC guidelines state that babies, toddlers and young children should never, under any circumstances, be left alone and that children under the age of 12 are

rarely mature enough to cope with an emergency. Therefore they should not be left alone in the house for any length of time. Children under 16 should not be left alone overnight.

Leaving a child alone in the car Children should never be left alone in the car. Stranger danger is an ever present issue for young children – however well you teach them, young children can act quite differently when something tempting is apparently on offer. Leaving a toddler in the car runs the risk of them wandering off into traffic or a busy car park. And no child is safe from the risk of another car crashing into yours, even when your car is stationary.

Leaving your child home alone This is far trickier to navigate as growing children begin to want their independence from their parents. The important thing to remember, in the absence of a clear legal framework, is your child’s wishes. If they

Books to inspire picky eaters Feed your fussy eater’s imagination with these clever and humorous books which will inspire even the pickiest of children to start exploring the wonderful world of food. Good luck!

Bread and Jam for Frances, by Russell Hoban This lovely book tells the story of Frances who loves bread and jam so much she eats it at every single meal! At least that’s until she realises what else she’s missing...This charming tale will keep parents and kids entertained!

Green Eggs and Ham, by Dr Seuss This fantastic story teaches little ones that you never know whether you like something or not until you’ve tried it! With Dr Seuss’ unique combination of funny rhymes and cool characters, this book will be a delightful read for both adults and children.

simply can’t cope with being left alone then you’ll need to make other arrangements.

But when they reach the age of 12, you could experiment with leaving them for a short amount of time. If you do, make sure you’ve thoroughly discussed the kind of behaviour you expect from them – like not boiling a kettle – and that they know exactly what to do if there’s a problem. Take your mobile and make sure they have the number, plus a list of trusted adults to contact if they can’t reach you. If you have more than one child, make sure they’re engaged in a calm activity, like watching TV or doing homework so squabbles and problems are less likely to occur.

Are they ready to be in charge?

Some children actively enjoy showing how grown up they are, but it’s wise to run through a few scenarios to reassure yourself how they might genuinely cope in an emergency. Try asking them what they’d do in a power cut, or if the bathroom flooded. What if they’re hungry or a stranger knocks at the door?

Have the conversations for a few minutes at a time, to try and gauge how they’d react. Remember, you don’t have to leave them alone at home if you don’t want to, but sometimes the situation is unavoidable so you’ll need to know how they might cope. By having these conversations, you can work towards a plan of action if you do need to leave your child in the house alone.

Make a checklist If you and your child decide that they’re responsible enough to be left home alone, perhaps after school while you’re still at work, then work together on a checklist that covers both your concerns.

• Double check that they’re happy to be left alone: it may be that they’d feel happier if a neighbour looked in on them from time to time.

• Set some ground rules: your child may be as worried as you are about the responsibility of being left in charge.

• Agree what’s safe and not safe to do: you might be happy for them to visit a friend or have a friend to visit.

• Be clear that mentioning you’re home alone on social media is not a cool idea.

• Let them know when you’ll be home: leave a number where you can be contacted, and let them know you’ll inform them if you’re delayed in any way.

• Check in every now and again: give them a call to check that they’re OK. • Put potentially dangerous objects out of harm’s way before you leave.

Knowing when the right time to leave your child alone is never easy, but through planning and good communication you can both enjoy peace of mind.

For more information about keeping your child safe visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk/wellbeing

I Do Not Eat the Colour Green, by Lynne Rickards This fun, engaging book is ideal for young fussy eaters.

Showcasing the tale of Marlene McKean; this story is all about how little Marlene absolutely hates the colour green!

Monsters Don’t Eat Broccoli, by Barbara Jean Hicks and Sue Hendra In this stunning picture book the monsters insist that they don’t eat broccoli; despite the fact the tractors and rocket ships look EXACTLY like broccoli! Maybe vegetables aren’t so bad after all?

Tea Time for Pirates, by Richard Dungworth Packed with fantastic rhymes and funny illustrations, this book is a perfect story for picky eaters. Telling the tale of how Captain Cutlass convinces his crew that sausages, carrots, mash and peas will make them big and strong!

I Will Not Ever Never Eat a Tomato, by Lauren Child Little Lola is a really picky eater; she won’t eat peas, carrots, mushrooms, eggs or sausages - and most definitely NOT tomatoes! Well, until her brother Charlie explains to her that actually peas are small green drops from Greenland and carrots are orange twiglets from Jupiter - this fun-filled book will keep your kids entertained and you never know; they may even start to eat their veg!

Oliver’s Vegetables, by Vivian French This book is aimed at parents with a picky eater at the dinner table! This story tells the tale of young Oliver who loves chips so much that he refuses to eat anything else! Well, until this grandfather plays a game with him where he must eat every vegetable he finds in the garden!

For more amazing books for your kids, visit www.familiesonline.co.uk/bookclub

Families Cheshire | www.familiesonline.co.uk 9

Clubs & classes Scouting: skills for life

The image of kids spending lots of time outdoors, getting heaps of fresh air and exercise while learning life skills as they go seems quaintly nostalgic now. There is, however, a great British institution that still promotes and encourages those values, while incorporating the realities of twenty-first-century living, like IT skills and PR. We spoke to Gareth Huxtable, a former scout and Scout Leader, about Scouting and what it can offer to today’s youngsters.

How has Scouting changed in the twenty years you’ve been involved?

The fact that a major celebrity and world-class adventurer, Bear Grylls, is now the Chief Scout, speaks volumes. His many remarkable achievements are an inspiration to the boys and girls, and he has definitely made scouting cool. We now go right the way through from

age 6 to 25 and offer a huge range of activities.

The uniform has been updated and is really practical, modern and comfortable for both sexes.

Tell us more about the activities It’s still based on the model of working towards Proficiency badges, which has been proven to be a great system for application and reward. There is something for everyone to work towards and achieve. We’ve got the old favourites like map reading and first aid, but also mechanics, abseiling, photography and entertaining. You name it, really. There is always a topic that will appeal. Going on from there we have the personal development awards, Chief Scout and Queen Scout that are similar to the Duke of Edinburgh awards and impressive for CVs. As well as physical challenges and new skills, these top awards require commitment to a charity, and the Queen herself does the presentation. Quite an honour!

Do you still go away on camps?

Oh yes. Camps and nights away are a big part of the scouting experience and they are open to the boys and girls of all ages. It’s a great chance for them to learn some independence and to fit in living and working alongside others.

As they get older, the camps get more adventurous and we do overseas expeditions as well. This way we meet up with scouts from other countries, which is a brilliant chance to make new friends, have fun and

see that they are a part of something bigger.

Does it cost a lot to become a scout?

I’d say it’s surprisingly cheap compared to a lot of other children’s activities. We have an annual subscription charge, and that varies a bit depending on where in the country you are, but the average is somewhere between £50 and £100. That doesn’t include things like camps, as obviously there are extra costs involved in transport, food and accommodation for trips away. The only other outlay is for the uniform, but there is no need to buy all brand-new kit. There is a thriving second-hand market in scouting gear, and the Scouting Association itself can help out for families that struggle with the costs.

What’s the best thing about scouting?

That’s a hard question! There are so many benefits. Most of all, it’s good fun. It’s also good to get kids outdoors, get them muddy, and, at the same time, they are learning behaviours and skills that are setting them up for life. It’s win-win really. They make new friends, they have adventures, and they push themselves. I think the fact that we currently have over 450,000 members shows that the movement is more popular than ever and is providing a lot of opportunity for young people. Membership is growing, so that proves that the scouts are enjoying themselves and that’s not bad for an organisation that’s over a hundred years old, but still meeting the needs of today’s kids.

A hundred years old?

Yes, we’ve hit our centenary year and there’s been a lot to celebrate. We formed Cub100 to commemorate 100 years of Cub scouting and have held events all over the country. We’re actually the largest mixed youth organisation in the UK today. Not bad for a movement that was established in 1907. I think it shows we have really moved with the times and are providing a valuable outlet for our members.

The transformation in the last fifteen years has been quite remarkable. That translates to thousands of kids all over the UK getting involved in masses of different activities every week. And that’s not including the camps and trips.

So it’s not all about woggles and knots anymore?

We still have a woggle but, as I said before, the uniform is very modern these days. It’s all part of the re-brand to keep us relevant in the twenty-first century. Anyone, boy or girl, can join as a Beaver when they are six and carry right on through Cubs, Scouts and Explorers to the Scout Network for 18-25 years old. Scouting is very inclusive and I really can’t recommend it enough.

For more information about scouting and other clubs visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk/activities

Razzamataz Theatre School Chester FREE Taster Day

Happy new year! Looking for new classes that your little ones can get involved in this year? Look no further!

Razzamataz Theatre Schools offer exceptional training in dance, drama and singing with exciting opportunities to perform. They believe that every student should have the opportunity to

10 Families Cheshire | www.familiesonline.co.uk

be energetic, gain confidence, make friends and have fun!

Razzamataz has a FREE taster day on Saturday 21st January, so if you’re aged 4-18 and want to get involved in performing arts in a funky, fresh and vibrant atmosphere, Razzamataz is the place for you!

They pride themselves on the quality and affordability of their tuition, and are ranked as one of the Top 5 Theatre Schools by The Stage newspaper. They also offer an amazing 50% sibling discount on your second child or your third child goes free!!

Contact Chloe on 07514 624222 or chester@razzamataz.co.uk www.chester.razzamataz.co.uk

Clubs & classes Lift the lid on your child’s education Movement, singing and movement school. As well as providing Nursery with Jo Jingles and Children Centre sessions, they have

Jabberjacks Activity Classes: these fabulous activity classes help to encourage and support all areas of a child’s development and are designed to stimulate and encourage participation.

As members of the Pre-School Learning Alliance, Jabberjacks ensures that they offer the best start for a child as they grow and get ready for starting

many classes in and around Cheshire including Chester, Winsford, Bramhall and Poynton.

FREE TRIAL Classes are available along with a DISCOUNT if you book for the term!

Jabberjacks Parties: Looking for a special party that will keep the children and parents talking for weeks! Playmates parties for 2 to 4 year olds and Juniors parties for 5 to 7 years are just perfect. They offer a unique format that is designed to engage and thrill all who attend.

For more info, or find your nearest class simply visit www.jabberjacks.co.uk,

Great January offer from Tots Play, Northwich Based in Shurlach Chapel, Northwich, Tots Play for babies and toddlers is a funfilled programme giving you the confidence and inspiration you need to play, connect and enjoy special time with your child, enhancing their development. Baby Development, Discovery Tots and Social Tots classes available. For more info call Hayley on 07725 116628, or email hayley@totsplay.co.uk. www.facebook.co/totsplaynorthwich

Tots Play brings you an unbeatable January offer – a 3 week trial for just £14!

Jo Jingles’ fun, educational and exciting classes are brought to you in Chester, Tarporley, Frodsham, Sandiway and Hartford by Cheryl, 2014 winner of the most outstanding activity leader (West & Wales), whose main aim is to make sure you and your little one enjoy the 45 minute class as much as she does!

Aimed at children from 3 months to 5 years, the classes are carefully planned to each specific age group, and introduce themes such as colours, shapes and numbers using popular nursery rhymes and action songs. The fast moving, hands-on sessions and themes are changed regularly, so there’s no chance of getting bored!

For more info, call Cheryl on 07713 565486. http://midcheshire2chester. jojingles.com/classes.asp

Unlock your child’s potential!

Stagecoach Theatre Arts School has been running for over 20 years and is the most popular and well established part time theatre arts school in Chester!

Besides the main school, they also do lots of other exciting things…

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 Baby Beats Music Classes for 0 – 5 year olds. Join our fun and educational music classes with an experienced musician.

Featuring live music, original songs, instruments, puppets and parachute games.

…They provide the children’s cast for Bill Kenwright professional productions in the North-West such as ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’, ‘Evita’, ‘Scrooge’, ‘Whistle Down The Wind’ and many more! They have just confirmed that their students will be appearing in EVITA and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat again next year, and also have their own agency which enables many of their students to work professionally on stage and screen!

Every child that attends Stagecoach Chester is special, whether they are there

to tread the boards or to build their confidence; their capped class sizes ensure that every child receives enough individual attention by their exceptional, experienced and professionally trained staff.

Stagecoach Chester teaches skills for life and not just for the stage!

Call now to book your place!

01244 316187 / stagecoach.co.uk/chester

that is just right for them and eventually to take responsibility for their own learning.

Helsby & Frodshan – Karen: 01565 734478 Knutsford – Sue: 01565 621142 Nantwich – Sarah: 01270 780810 Northwich – Amanda: 01606 76468 Wilmslow – Ian: 01625 532529 www.kumon.co.uk​ Suitable for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers.

Classes in Crewe, Nantwich, Sandbach, Shavington and Haslington. £4.50 per session, sibling discount available. You can also book Baby Beats for Children’s Parties and Nursery sessions. Contact Laura 07412961389 or info@babybeatsmusic.co.uk or visit www.babybeatsmusic.co.uk

Families Cheshire | www.familiesonline.co.uk 11

What’s on

Not all event information is available at the time of going to press – so make sure you visit our website which is full of fabulous LOCAL content and being constantly updated. www. familiesonline.co.uk

How to beat the January blues

Once the excitement of Christmas is over and gone, it can often feel like a real struggle for the whole family to keep things fresh and lively at the beginning of a new year.

However, there are so many opportunities for you to do things together as a family - both indoors and out - that you’ll soon banish the January blues!

Here are a few ideas to keep in mind…

A family read-in When it’s blowing a gale outside, there’s no better way to spend an afternoon than snuggled up with a good book. For younger children you can encourage them to act out the story and show off your full range of funny faces and voices. For older children, take the opportunity to discuss what they’re reading in some depth – talk about plot and characters and why they

enjoy a particular type of book. Who knows, you may even inspire them to try writing their own story!

Family Bake-Off Who doesn’t love the Great British Bake Off? Those grey January days offer the perfect opportunity to get into the kitchen and bake up a storm. Let younger children indulge in some messy play with their own bowl of cake mix or a piece of pastry - don’t get stressed about the mess but enjoy a real opportunity to spend some creative time together in the kitchen. For older children, encourage some healthy competition by going ‘full Bake off’ and seeing who can produce the best cookies or cupcakes.

Get creative in the garden Outdoor crafts are a wonderful way to liven up the garden for pennies, using materials you can find outdoors or simply lying around the house. It’s amazing how ice, berries and watercolours or food colourings can transform tap water into beautiful ice baubles to decorate the garden when set in interesting moulds.

Or spread peanut butter all over the outside of an empty toilet roll holder or that piece of over crunchy toast, then roll in birdseed

Free events at your local library Did you know that your local library holds regular free children’s events? See our list below for details and contact your library for further information.

East Cheshire Libraries

Alderley Edge Rhymetime for under 5s Tues, 10 – 10.30am, weekly in term time Rhymetime for under 12 months Fri, 2.15 – 2.45pm, weekly Alsager Rhymetime for under 5s Mon, 10 – 10.30am, weekly LEGO Club 3rd Tues of the month, 3.30pm – 4.30pm, monthly Little Bookworms Fri, 10 – 10.30am, weekly Children’s activities Sat, weekly Bollington Storytime for under 5s Tues, 10 – 10.30am, weekly Rhymetime for under 5s Wed & Fri, 10 – 10.30am, weekly Congleton Storytime for under 5s Tues, 10.30 – 11am, weekly Rhymetime for under 5s Thurs, 10.30 – 11am, weekly LEGO Club 4th Thurs of the month, 4 – 5pm, monthly Family activities Sat 10am – 12pm, weekly Crewe LEGO Club 1st Tues of the month, 4 – 5pm, monthly Storytime for under 5s Wed, 10 – 10.30am, weekly Rhymetime for under 5s Fri, 11 – 11.30am, weekly Disley Rhymetime for under 5s Wed, 2 – 2.30pm, weekly

LEGO Club Wed, 3.30–5pm, weekly.

Handforth Storytime for under 5s Mon, 2.30 – 3pm, weekly in term time Rhymetime for under 5s Tues, 11 – 11.30am, weekly in term time LEGO Club Last Tues of the month, 4pm, monthly Coding Club Sat, 10.30 – 11am, monthly (ages 9 – 11), check Facebook page for dates LEGO Club Last Sat of the month, 10am, monthly Holmes Chapel Stay and Play Mon, 2 – 3pm, weekly. Run by Congleton Children’s Centre.

Rhymetime for under 5s Thurs, 11 – 11.30am, weekly in term time Knutsford Rhymetime for under 12 months Tues, 2.15 – 2.45, weekly in term time Storytime for under 5s Thurs, 11 – 11.30am, weekly in term time Rhymetime for under 5s Fri, 11 – 11.30am, weekly in term time Macclesfield Rhymetime for under 5s Mon, 2.30 – 3pm, weekly in term time Tues 11 – 11.30am, weekly in term time Middlewich Rhymetime for under 5s Tues, 10.30 – 11am, weekly Nantwich Rhymetime for under 5s Tues, 11 – 11.30am, weekly LEGO Club 2nd Tues of the month, 4 – 5pm, monthly Storytime for under 5s Fri, 11 – 11.30am, weekly Poynton Rhymetime for under 5s Thurs, 10.30 – 11am, weekly in term time

12 Families Cheshire | www.familiesonline.co.uk

to create an instant feeder that the kids can hang near the kitchen or living room window.

Add a bird book and they can pass a few hours identifying and logging the birds that come to visit. Just make sure they wrap up warm!

Fun in the snow Of course, snow in January isn’t guaranteed, but if it does snow you have the ideal excuse to wrap up warm and organise snowman building contests and a monster snowball fight. Kids of all ages love playing in the snow, but have you ever played tug of war? Or tried snowball dodgeball? Once that snowman is built, try frisbeeing a hat onto his head or play a game of pin the nose on the snowman using a carrot.

And everyone can join in a simple game of tag, made a little more interesting if you’re only allowed to use the footprints of the other players!

Create rock pets The best way to blow away the cobwebs during January is to take the family for a long winter walk. It’s great exercise, but it’s even more fun if you make your walk an excuse to collect items for some winter crafting.

Find a talking stick Another interesting find on your walk might be a stick that transforms, with the help of some beads, feather, paint and markers into a wish stick for younger children or a talking stick for the older members of your tribe.

Talking sticks have a long history in tribal cultures as a way of allowing everyone to have their say - you can only talk when holding the stick - so, for larger families, this could be an ideal way for your kids to create something that will ensure they’re heard.

Look to the heavens On a clear night, there’s nothing better than wrapping up warm and heading outside to stargaze. Download an app and see how many constellations you can find and identify. Younger children will enjoy spotting stars and older ones can test their astronomical knowledge.

Have a tech-free day Be brave and ban iPads, smartphones and games consoles for the day. Instead put out a pile of blank paper, pens and craft materials and see what your children can create. Boredom can be the best motivator for creativity.

Revive the art of den building For younger children, provide blankets, boxes and furniture indoors and encourage older children to get outdoors and get den building in the garden or the woods. Find out who’s the Bear Grylls of the family and who can create the best fantasy castle/ spaceship/dragon’s belly. Den building is for everyone, so get involved!

For more ideas on keeping the kids active visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk/activities

LEGO Club 1st Thurs of the month, 3.30 – 4.45pm, monthly Sandbach Storytime for under 5s Mon, 10.30 – 11am, weekly in term time Rhymetime for under 5s Wed, 10.30 – 11am, weekly Young Reading Group 3rd Mon of the month, 3.45–4.45pm, monthly. Age 8+ .

Game Club Sat, 10.30 – 11.30am, for ages 4+. Contact the library for details and dates.

Children’s Crafts Monthly drop in session. Contact the library for details and dates.

Wilmslow Storytime for under 5s Mon, 11 – 11.30am, weekly in term time Rhymetime for under 5s Thurs, 11 – 11.30am, weekly in term time

Helsby Rhymetime for under 5s Mon, 11 – 11.30am, weekly Storytime for under 5s Fri, 11 – 11.30am, weekly Hope Farm Rhymetime for under 5s Fri, 10.30 – 11.15am, weekly in term time Storytime for under 5s Fri, 2.30 –3pm, weekly in term time Lache Rhymetime for under 5s Thurs, 2.15 – 2.45pm, weekly in term time Little Sutton Storytime for under 5s Thurs, 10.30 – 11am, weekly in term time Neston Stories and rhymes for under 5s Tues, 11.15 – 11.45am, weekly in term time Baby Rhymetime for under 5s Fri, 2 – 2.30pm, weekly in term time Northwich Stories and rhymes for under 5s Tues, 11 – 11.30am, weekly in term time Sandiway Rhymetime for under 5s Tues, 11 – 11.30am, weekly in term time Tarporley Stories for under 5s Mon, 1.30 – 2pm, weekly in term time Upton Storytime for under 5s Fri, 2.15 – 2.45pm, weekly in term time Rhymetime for under 5s Tues, 2.15 – 2.45pm, weekly in term time Weaverham Rhymetime for under 5s Fri, 11 – 11.30am, weekly Wharton Stories and rhymes for under 5s Tues, 10.30 – 11am, weekly in term time Winsford Rhymetime for under 5s Mon, 10.30 – 11am, weekly Storytime for under 5s Thurs, 10.30 – 11am, weekly Storytime for 5 – 9 years Wed, 3.30 – 4pm, weekly

Cheshire West & Chester Libraries Barnton Storytime for under 7’s Thurs, 3.45 – 4.15pm, weekly Blacon Rhymetime for under 5s Tues, 10.30 – 11am, weekly Chester Storytime for under 5s Mon, 11.15 – 11.45am, weekly in term time Rhymetime for under 5s Wed, 10.15 – 10.45am and 11.15 – 11.45am, weekly in term time Rhymetime for babies under 1 Fri, 11.15 – 11.45am, weekly in term time.

Booking essential due to limited spaces.

Ellesmere Port Baby rhyme and sign for babies under 1 Wed, 10 – 10.30am, weekly in term time Toddler rhyme and sign, 1yr + Wed, 11 – 11.30am, weekly in term time Storytime for under 5s Thurs, 2 – 2.30pm, weekly Frodsham Stories and rhymes for under 5s Tues, 2 – 2.30pm, weekly in term time Great Broughton Storytime for under 5s Wed, 2.30 – 3pm. Weekly in term time

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 or upload your event listing to our website - www.familiesonline.co.uk Daily until Sat 1 April

Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Puppet Masters Exhibition with Aardman Studios A fascinating behind–the–scenes insight into the world of stop motion animation, this free exhibition features puppets, props and production artwork from titles including, Wallace and Gromit, The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists! and Timmy Time, and will tell the story of how each character is brought to the screen.

0161 912 5616 / www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Saturdays in Jan & Feb

The Lowry, Salford Lookout, it’s Saturday Playhouse!

11am – 12.30pm / Ages 5 – 11 / Free. A weekly art activity for children and their families in the dedicated Lookout space for families. Something different each week. www.thelowry.com

Sat 7 Jan, Sat 4 Feb & Sat 4 Mar Bramall Hall, Stockport Saturdays at the Hall 1pm – 3pm / Age 4+ / £1pp, drop in (limited places) A fun family craft activity in the brand new learning room in the Visitor Centre.

0161 474 2020 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Sat 7 Jan & Sat 11 Feb

Hat Works, Stockport Early Birds Doors open 9am, Crafts 9.15 – 11am / Free entry, £2 for crafts. Enjoy the museum at a quiet time and take part in a different craft activity each month. Staff on hand to start the machinery and talk about the exhibits. Suitable for children and adults with autism, their families and companions 0161 474 2487 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Tues 10 Jan

Alderley Edge Library Bookstart Bear Rhymetime 10am. A special Rhymetime to launch Bear’s Reading Adventure, and meet Mr Bookstart Bear. www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/libraries

Thurs 12 & Sat 14 Jan

Alderley Edge Library LEGO club 4 – 5pm (Thurs), 10 – 11am (Sat). Loads of fun making LEGO models. www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/libraries

Thurs 12 & 26 Jan, Thurs 2 & 16 Feb

Bramall Hall, Stockport Bramall Hall Babies – Sensory Stories 11.30am – 12.15pm / non–walking babies / £6 per baby (max two accompanying adults free), booking essential. A sensory story and play session. Listen to tales of Billy the Bear, Dottie the Dizzy Dragon or a surprise story!

Bramall Hall Babies – Tudor Sensations Bramall Hall themed sensory play sessions.

10.15am – 11am / £3 per baby (max two accompanying adults free), booking essential 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Fri 13 & 27 Jan, Fri 17 & 24 Feb

The Lowry, Salford Under 5s First Steps 10 – 10.45am and 11 – 11.45am / Ages 2 ½ – 4 ½ / £3.50 (£1.75 Salford residents). Wriggle, jiggle and jump as you explore stories, rhythm and music through your body. 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Fri 13 Jan & Fri 10 Feb

Hat Works, Stockport Messy Milliners 11am – 11.45am / £3.50 per baby (plus max two accompanying adults), booking essential. An exciting and innovative messy play session with a hatting theme! Suitable for babies and early walkers 0161 474 2399 /www.stockport.gov.uk

Manchester Art Gallery Mini Art Club 10.15 – 11.15am, 11.30am – 12.30pm / Ages 1 – 4 /Free, book one week in advance. Explore artworks, create and get messy with visual artist Jess Wild.

0161 235 8888 / www.manchesterartgallery.org

Sat 14 Jan

Jodrell Bank, Macclesfield Family Starlight Adventure 2 – 5pm / All ages (specially under 8s), £10, (Families £32 (2 + 2) or £40 (2+3), booking essential. Discover the secrets of the stars in the night sky. A fun, fact–packed science show, hands–on lantern making session, and a special lantern–led walk to the Galaxy Garden. Enjoy a star show in the inflatable planetarium (please note that visitors will be required to sit on the floor for this).

01477 571 766 / www.jodrellbank.net The Manchester Museum Autism Friendly Early Opening Ages 5 – 16 / Free, drop in. Early opening aimed at children who have autism and other needs, along with their families and carers, and siblings. Activities take place before the Museum opens to the general public and there will be a quiet room available too. In this session, the Fossils gallery where Stan the T–Rex lives will be open earlier. www.museum.manchester.ac.uk Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI), Manchester Pi: Platform for Investigation – What’s your FOODprint? 10.30am – 3.30pm / Age 8+ / Free Interactive science show creating awareness of the impact of food–related activities.

0161 832 2244 / www.msimanchester.org.uk

Sat 14 & Sun 15 Jan, Sat 11 & Sun 12 Feb

Manchester Art Gallery Family Weekend 1pm–3pm / All ages / Free, drop in Explore, create and have fun with your family. Join us in the Clore Art Studio where a different artist each month will be responding to an exhibition. 0161 235 8888 / www.manchesterartgallery.org

Sat 21 Jan & Sat 18 Feb

Manchester Art Gallery Open Doors 9.15am – 10.45am / Ages 5 – 16 with families or carers / Free, drop in. A series of creative, sensory activities aimed at children with autism.

0161 235 8869 / www.manchesterartgallery.org

Sun 22 Jan

Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery Wellbeing Workshops – You, With Your Body 2 – 3pm / All ages (children must be accompanied) / Free, booking essential. A fun and interactive discussion where you can learn some simple pragmatic tools. Guest Speaker: Geraldine Ling.

0161 474 4453 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Fri 27 Jan & Fri 24 Feb

Hat Works, Stockport Mad Hatters Art & Crafts Club 10am – 11.30am (Ages 2 – 5), 2 – 3pm (Babies – age 2) / £5 per child (plus max two accompanying adults), booking essential. An action packed hour of arts and crafts with the emphasis on fun and age and ability appropriate crafts. Dress to get messy!

0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Sat 28 Jan

Grappenhall Community Centre Mess Around Extravaganza 10.30 – 11.45am / Age 6mnths (sit unaided) – 5yrs / £10, siblings £5.50, booking essential. Multi–sensory messy play experiences for little ones with older siblings (up to age 10) welcome to participate in the Big Kids Create & Make corner. Loads of activities where little ones can squelch, pour, mix and splat, including the painting wall, rainbow spaghetti and snow storm. Also a visit by a mascot character, and facepainting and glitter tattoos for children. www.messarounduk.com/cheshiresouthmcr

The Old Sunday School, Macclesfield Football Flags Textile Workshop 11am – 1pm or 2 – 4pm / All Ages / £3pp, booking essential. Join artist Zoe Hillyard to make a silk flag that celebrates living in Macclesfield and the Silkmen. Appropriate for all ages and abilities and materials are provided.

01625 613210 / www.silkmacclesfield.org.uk Nantwich Town Centre The Battle of Nantwich The annual re–enactment of the Battle of Nantwich 1644. www.battleofnantwich.co.uk

Sat 28 Jan & Sat 25 Feb

Bramall Hall, Stockport Early Birds 9.30 – 11.30am / Child free, normal admission for adults, booking essential. Early opening for families with autism, offering the opportunity to explore the Hall when it’s quiet. Enjoy family trails and activity boxes. Staff will be on hand to help you to learn about the Hall.

0161 474 2020 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Sun 29 Jan

Alsager Civic Centre Little Munchkins Markets 9.30am – 12pm A brand new baby and children’s market with a great mix of pre–loved stalls and local businesses. A cafe on site, soft play for the little ones and bargains galore!

07789766084 / www.facebook.com/littlemunchkinsmarkets

Tues 17 & 31 Jan

The Manchester Museum Baby Explorer 10.30 – 11.15am or 11.30am – 12.15pm / Free but booking essential a week in advance. Interactive story and sensory play sessions taking place in the Nature Discovery gallery.

Musical Baby Explorers 1 – 1.45pm / Free but booking essential a week in advance. Live music and songs inspired by the collections, supported by a range of playful sensory resources for babies to explore.

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

Thurs 19 - Sun 22 Jan

Event City, Manchester Destinations: The Holiday & Travel Show A host of ‘show-only’ exclusive offers, discounts and upgrades from leading travel companies around the globe. Thousands of free food and drinks tastings, photography masterclasses as well as talks and sessions with travel writers and industry experts. www.destinationsshow.com

Fri 20 Jan & Fri 17 Feb

Bramall Hall, Stockport Behind the Scenes at Bramall Hall 7pm – 9pm All ages / £10, booking essential. Find out more about the restoration and conservation of Bramall Hall – a guided tour with a difference.

0161 474 4444 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Sat 21 Jan

Lion Salt Works, Northwich Brass Band and the Making of Music 2.30 – 4.30pm / all ages / Suggested donation £2 Wake up the year with traditional nostalgia and contemporary arrangements performed by the City of Chester Band. This event will show how musical director Ewan Easton MBE rehearses the band with techniques for a winning performance.

01606 275066 / www.westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

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What’s on Sun 29 Jan

Queen’s Park High School, Handbridge, Chester CH4 7AE Baby & Children’s Market 10 – 11.30am / Adult £1, Child Free. Grab some bargains at our nearly new sale. An opportunity to purchase top quality pre lovevd baby and children’s items. Local businesses also attending showcasing their unique products and services for babies and children. Stall bookings now being taken.

07834 686 414 / heather@babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk / www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk

Sun 29 Jan & Sun 26 Feb

The Lowry, Salford Relaxed Playhouse 11am – 12.30pm / Ages 5 – 11 / Free but booking essential. An accessible visual art activity for children with additional needs and their families.

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Thurs 2 Feb

The John Rylands Library, Manchester Toddler tales 10.30 – 11.15am / Under 5s / Free. Find a cosy corner, pull up a cushion and listen to fun stories.

Join in playtime, creating a storyworld of your own. www.library.manchester.ac.uk

Not all event information is available at the time of going to press – so make sure you visit our NEW website which is full of fabulous LOCAL content and being constantly updated. www.familiesonline.co.uk Sat 11 Feb

Altrincham FC Community Sports Hall Mess Around Extravaganza (with a Valentines twist) 2 – 3.15pm / Age 6mnths (sit unaided) – 5yrs / £10, siblings £5.50, booking essential.

Multi–sensory messy play experiences for little ones with older siblings (up to age 10) welcome to participate in the Big Kids Create & Make corner.

Loads of activities where little ones can squelch, pour, mix and splat, including the painting wall, rainbow spaghetti and snow storm. Also a few valentine themed activities including Valentine card making. www.messarounduk.com/cheshiresouthmcr Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Baby and Toddler – Storytelling and Play session 9.30am, 10.15am, 11am / Free, booking essential. Bring your little ones to Quarry Bank, for a special storytelling and play session just for them. 01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry–bank

Sat 11 – Sun 26 Feb

Chatsworth House, Bakewell Half term in the farmyard & adventure playground 10.30am – 4.30pm (last admission 3.30pm) / £6pp / £22 per family (2 adults and up to 3 children). The farmyard and adventure playground will be open for the February school holidays. Join in the Wild West themed fun on our trailer ride, dare to handle the spiders and snakes, take a shot in Tin Can Alley, let off steam in the adventure playground and meet all the animals in the farmyard.

Small extra charge for the tractor trailer ride.

01246 565300 / www.chatsworth.org

Sun 12 Feb

Fri 3 Feb & Fri 3 Mar

Manchester Art Gallery Baby Friday 1.15 – 2pm, 2.30 – 3.15pm, Free, book one week in advance. Explore with visual artist, Rose Miller.

Ideal for babies who aren’t yet walking. For those who can’t book on, drop in to the Clore Art Studio from 10am where there will be special baby baskets which will help you and your baby explore the Clore’s new design. 0161 235 8888 / www.manchesterartgallery.org Bramall Hall, Stockport Bramall Dragon Club 10am – 12 noon / Ages 2 – 5 years / £7 per child, booking essential. Explorer visits to the hall, park and gardens with dragon hunts, creepy–crawly trails and wild woodland walks.

0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Wed 4 Feb

Stockport Air Raid Shelters Children’s Explorer Tours 6.45pm – 8.15pm / Age 7+ / Child: £3.95, Adult: £3, booking essential. Brave the darkened tunnels as you go back in time and experience the life of a child during the war.

0161 474 1940 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Sat 4 & Sun 5 Feb

Macdonald Manchester Hotel & Spa Boutique Baby Show 10am – 4pm / Free entry An exciting new Baby Show, aiming at showcasing a variety of small Baby businesses, with focusing on classes / activities in the North of Manchester that you can attend with your little one. Raffle in aid of Bliss and Sands charities. www.boutiquebabyshows.co.uk

Sat 4 Feb – Sun 5 Mar

Rode Hall, Scholar Green Snowdrop Walks 2017 11–4pm / Adult £5, Children £2 (under 5’s free) Closed Mondays. 01270 873237 / www.rodehall.co.uk

Sandbach Town Hall CW11 1AX Baby & Children’s Market 10 – 11.30am / Adult £1, Child Free. Grab some bargains at our nearly new sale. An opportunity to purchase top quality pre lovevd baby and children’s items. Local businesses also attending showcasing their unique products and services for babies and children. Stall bookings now being taken. 07834 686 414 / heather@babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk / www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk

Mon 13 Feb

2nd Bramhall Scout Hut Mess Around Party with a Valentines twist 10.30 – 11.30am / Age 6mnths (sit unaided) – 5yrs / £10, siblings £5.50, booking essential. Multi–sensory messy play experiences for little ones with older siblings (up to age 10) welcome to participate in the Big Kids Create & Make corner. Loads of activities where little ones can squelch, pour, mix and splat, including the painting wall, rainbow spaghetti and snow storm. Also a few valentine themed activities including Valentine card making. www.messarounduk.com/cheshiresouthmcr

Sat 18 – Sun 26 Feb

Tatton Park, Knutsford Scarecrow Festival Normal opening times and admission applies.

Visit the scarecrow festival in the Gardens and at the Farm. Over 30 scarecrows will be resident in the Gardens. Find the farmyard scarecrows and have a go at making your own. Closed Monday.

01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

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Little Moreton Hall, Congleton Candlemass 11am – 5pm / All ages / Free, normal admission applies. Help bring the hall back to life as we light the fires and candles and play games throughout the last few days of winter. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/little–moreton–hall

Staircase House, Stockport Scribble as you go Special Discover different styles of writing as you go round the House. Come and find out more and have a go at one or more types of lettering! 1pm – 4pm / All ages / Adult £4.75, Child free, drop in 0161 474 4444 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Sun 19 Feb

Tues 21 – Thurs 23 Feb

Delamere Forest Build a Bird Box 10 – 11.30am, 12.30 – 2pm / Age 5+ (accompanied) / £10.20, booking essential. Celebrate National Bird Box Week and make your very own bird box to take home and put up for your garden birds. Prepared wood, materials, tools and instructions supplied.

07808 506308 / www.forest–explorers.co.uk

Mon 20 Feb

Delamere Forest Build a Wooden Bird Feeder 10 – 11am / Age 5+ (accompanied) / £6.20, booking essential. Make your very own long lasting wooden bird feeder perfect for peanuts, to take home and put up for your garden birds. Wood, materials, tools and instructions supplied. 07808 506308 / www.forest–explorers.co.uk Delamere Forest Make a Pine Cone Bird Feeder 12 – 2pm / Age 2+ / £1.70, booking essential but drop in anytime. Make a tasty pine cone bird feeder to take home and put up for your garden birds. Pine cone and ingredients provided.

07808 506308 / www.forest–explorers.co.uk

Mon 20 Feb

Bollington Civic Hall Mess Around Party 10.30 – 11.30am / Age 6mnths (sit unaided) – 5yrs / £10, siblings £5.50, booking essential. Multi–sensory messy play experiences for little ones with older siblings (up to age 10) welcome to participate in the Big Kids Create & Make corner. Loads of activities where little ones can squelch, pour, mix and splat, including the painting wall, rainbow spaghetti and snow storm. www.messarounduk.com/cheshiresouthmcr Stockport Museum For Families with Autism 10am – 12pm, Free, drop in. Enjoy the museum while it’s quiet and closed to the public. Staff on hand to chat about the exhibits and explain the craft activity. Suitable for families with autistic children.

0161 474 4444 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Mon 20 – Fri 24 Feb

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal February half term fun 11am – 4pm / All ages / Free, normal admission applies, drop in. Make computer coded necklaces using binary beads to spell out your name, and take a clothes peg and lollipop stick engineering challenge. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry–bank

Tues 21 Feb

West Park Museum, Macclesfield Discover a WWI Soldier 2 – 4pm / Family drop–in / Free activity, £1 for the biplane kit. Discover what a Great War soldier carried in the trenches, what he ate, how he kept clean, his work and leisure and what weapons and protection he was given. You can even make your own model biplane. www.silkmacclesfield.org.uk Tatton Park, Knutsford Deer Feed and Trailer Ride 9.30 – 10.30am / Age 4+ / £8pp, booking essential Take a trailer ride with the Rangers to watch the daily deer feed. Get a close look at hundreds of deer feeding in their beautiful natural setting.

01625 374428 / www.tattonpark.org.uk Delamere Forest Build a Bird Box 12.30 – 2pm / Age 5+ (accompanied) / £10.20, booking essential. Celebrate National Bird Box Week and make your very own bird box to take home and put up for your garden birds. Prepared wood, materials, tools and instructions supplied.

07808 506308 / www.forest–explorers.co.uk

Hat Works, Stockport Half Term Hat Works Fun 2pm – 4pm / Age 7+ / £4, booking essential. Try your hand at a different craft each day, including felt making, decoupage and easy lino print.

0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk Bramall Hall, Stockport Half Term Fun! 10am, 12pm, 2pm & 4pm (1 hour sessions) / Age 6+ / £3 per child, drop in. Try your hand at a difference craft activity each day – printing, stained glass, wattle and daub, or ceiling pendant making.

0161 474 2020 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Tues 21 & Thurs 23 Feb

Stockport Museum Half Term Museum Crafty Makes 1pm –4pm, Age 5 – 11 / Free, drop in. Have a go at different crafts. 0161 474 4444 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Wed 22 Feb

Staircase House, Stockport Disgusting Days Tour 2 – 3.30pm / All ages / Children £3 (1 adult free per paying child), booking essential. Take a trip round Staircase house and discover disgusting habits, tales and stories about life in the House (includes a craft activity) 0161 474 4444 / www.stockport.gov.uk Delamere Forest Winter Survival 10am – 2pm / Age 7+ (unaccompanied) / £15.20, booking essential. Learn how to survive in the depths of winter in a fun way! Test your knowledge on staying warm and safe outdoors and learn how to build a warm, dry shelter, how to light a fire and make a hot drink. You’ll also learn how to find North so you can find your way home and will cook some tasty food on the fire to finish off! Bring a packed lunch.

07808 506308 / www.forest–explorers.co.uk

Thurs 23 Feb

Delamere Forest Little Explorers Bird Bonanza 10am – 12pm, 1 – 3pm / Ages 3 – 6 (accompanied) / £8.70, booking essential. Make a bird feeder, learn how to make a bird nest, make a clay bird to take home and still have time for a play on the obstacle course, hammock, tree house and mud kitchen. Finish off with everyone’s favourite, a fire toasting marshmallows!

07808 506308 / www.forest–explorers.co.uk Tatton Park, Knutsford Winter Welly Walk 10.30am – 12pm, 1 – 2.30pm / Ages 3 – 5 (accompanied) / £8 (adult free), booking essential Taking inspiration from Michael Morpurgo’s ‘Where My Wellies Take Me’, children are invited on an exciting journey through the woodland to learn about Tatton Park’s nature and wildlife. Only one accompanying adult per child 01625 374428 / www.tattonpark.org.uk The Silk Museum, Macclesfield It’s a Silk Worm’s Life…

1.30 – 3.30pm /Family drop–in / £3 per activity pack Create the stages in the life of a silk worm, by making a cocoon, caterpillar, moth and then putting them all together to create a life cycle box.

01625 612045 / www.silkmacclesfield.org.uk

Thurs 23 & Fri 24 Feb

The Silk Museum, Macclesfield A Touch of Frosty Craft Workshop 10am – 12.30pm / Ages 6 – 12 / £6.50, booking essential. Create your own Jack Frost snow scenes, with a bit of glitter to make it sparkle!

01625 612045 / www.silkmacclesfield.org.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 or upload your event listing to our website - www.familiesonline.co.uk Fri 24 Feb

Bramall Hall, Stockport The Beasts of Bramall Hall 10am, 1pm & 3pm (1 hour sessions) / Ages 3 – 6 / £3 per child, booking essential. A magical tour of the Hall for younger visitors. Listen to stories based on the creatures found here and find the Red Dragon.

0161 474 2020 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Fri 24 – Sun 26 Feb

Delamere Forest Family Stone Age Day 10am–3pm / Age 5+ (accompanied) / £10.20pp, booking essential. Take your family on a journey backwards in time, to when the world was different and our ancestors lived in a world without cars, mobile phones and computers. Learn about how people of the past lived in an ever changing landscape, when the world of human beings was new and intertwined with our environment.

Join real life Stone Age man, Talan, in full dress and character to learn all about the lives, tools & technology of our stone age ancestors. Work with your children to make rope, create Stone Age drawings, learn how to build a fire the Stone Age way, make Stone Age pottery to take home with you and enjoy the taste of food from the Stone Age cooked on the fire. Please bring a packed lunch to supplement the food cooked on the fire.

07808 506308 / www.forest–explorers.co.uk East Lancashire Railway, Bury Mystery at the Magic Museum Join the award–winning After Dark Entertainment team on an exciting family friendly theatrical adventure taking place amidst the exhibits of Bury Transport Museum.

Scout for clues around the steam powered stars of yesteryear to solve this interactive mystery. www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

What’s on

Sat 25 Feb

Didsbury United Reformed Church Hall Mess Around Party 1.30 – 2.30pm / Age 6mnths (sit unaided) – 5yrs / £10, siblings £5.50, booking essential. Multi–sensory messy play experiences for little ones with older siblings (up to age 10) welcome to participate in the Big Kids Create & Make corner. Loads of activities where little ones can squelch, pour, mix and splat, including the painting wall, rainbow spaghetti and snow storm. www.messarounduk.com/cheshiresouthmcr

Sun 26 Feb

Hat Works, Stockport Super Sunday 11am –– 4pm / All ages / £1.50pp (under 2s free), drop in. Celebrate all things Welsh as we head towards St David’s Day! Daffodils and dragons galore!

0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Daily from 28 Feb (closed Mondays)

Stockport Museum Museum Mouse’s Musical Meander Normal opening hours / all ages / Free, drop in. A new trail as museum mouse travels around the Museum learning about music.

0161 474 4444 / www.stockport.gov.uk

Sat 4 Mar

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal World Book Day at Quarry Bank 10.30am – 4pm / All ages / Free, normal admission applies, drop in. Celebrate World Book Day at Quarry Bank with an interactive tour inspired by bestselling author Berlie Doherty’s ‘Far From Home’. Dressing up as your favourite book character is encouraged! www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry–bank

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