Families Manchester Issue 41 Sept-Oct 2013

Edition 41 • Sept/Oct 2013

@FamiliesManch

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

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In this issue > Back to school! > When school’s out: clubs & classes > The importance of inclusion

Covering: Altrincham, Trafford, Salford, Manchester, Bolton, Bury, Rochdale, Didsbury, Stockport, Cheadle, Bramhall, and surrounding areas.

Welcome/News In this issue 02: Welcome/News 03: Clubs & classes 09: Parents’ place 14: Back to school 23: What’s on

Hello!

Welcome back to the start of another school year! When we started out with Families four years ago, we had four children between us, with only one in school. Now we have five, with Declan beginning his first year of GCSEs, Ben and Lily making the jump to Juniors, Izzy starting out in Reception, and Logan champing at the bit waiting to join her next September.

We’ve attended countless activity sessions, dance classes, swimming lessons and sports matches and quite frankly, we’re exhausted! But how wonderful it is to see our offspring blossoming into such confident, independent little people with their own individual talents. And how lucky we are to have such fantastic schools and clubs to choose from across the region.

Jeans for Genes Day Wear your jeans on Jeans for Genes Day on 20 September and help change lives.

In aid of Genetic Disorders UK, Jeans for Genes Day aims to change the world for children with genetic disorders, so get your school together and raise money by wearing your jeans and donating £1. Individually, genetic disorders are rare but together they affect 1 in 25 children born in

Are you ready to take on SwimBritain?

We’re loving being part of your parenting journey, and we promise to continue bringing you great quality, useful information for the next four years and beyond.

Enjoy the ride!

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

Beachwatch Big Weekend

Jayne Keep

Next issue: November/December 2013

Design: Paul Wilson Graphic Design, Congleton.

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

Contact details: Families Manchester, 3 Hall Hill, Bollington SK10 5ED Tel: 01625 801 801 www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

challenge for both adults and children, both designed for teams of four: SwimBritain: a relay in 250m legs.

Each team member swims four legs, 1000m in total, to reach the team goal of 4000m.

Little SwimBritain: a relay in 125m legs for families and children aged between 8 and 16. Each team must include at least one adult. Each team member swims four legs, 500m total, to reach the team goal of 2000m.

Visit www.swimbritain.co.uk/signup for more info.

As part of this year’s SwimBritain programme, British Gas is hosting the first-ever team relay event to get Brits back in the water – and Team Manchester needs you!

Olympic swimmer Steve Parry will be supporting the local event at the Manchester Aquatics Centre on 21 September, where there’s a SwimBritain

Caryl Hall

Circulation: 25,000 copies of Families Manchester are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected shops and other points throughout Greater Manchester.

If you would like free copies for your organisation, please let us know.

the UK – that’s more than 30,000 babies each year.

Their associated health problems mean that genetic disorders are the biggest cause of death of children aged 14 years and under.

You can help by signing up for your fundraising pack full of everything you need to know to plan your day, at www. jeansforgenesday.org.

For a discounted family entry fee, simply enter discount code Manchester21 when registering – which means families can enter from just £9.

Editorial: editor@familiesmanchester.co.uk We take every care preparing the magazine, but the Advertising/artwork: advertising@familiesmanchester.co.uk publishers and distributors can’t be held responsible for the Events, diary dates, what’s on: events@familiesmanchester.co.uk claims of advertisers, the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences.

Cover photograph supplied by: @FamiliesManch Bridgewater School, Manchester 0161 794 1463 / www.bridgewater-school.co.uk www.facebook.com/familiesmanchester

New Children’s Laureate

Malorie Blackman, the bestselling author of the award-winning Noughts & Crosses teen series, has been crowned the Waterstones Children’s Laureate for 2013 – 2015.

As part of her role she will call on teachers and parents to spend at least ten minutes per day sharing a book with their pupils and children in an impassioned bid to get children reading more, as well as working to make reading ‘irresistible’ for teenagers.

‘I am honoured to have been chosen as the eighth Children’s Laureate,’ said Malorie. ‘Stories have inspired me and taught me to aspire. I hope to instil in every child I meet my love and enthusiasm for reading and stories.’

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Be part of the biggest and most influential fight against marine litter in the UK and volunteer to take part in The Marine Conservation Society’s (MCS) biggest beach clean and litter survey from 20 – 23 September.

Some of our best loved marine wildlife is under threat from hazardous litter in our seas. Hundreds of species of marine wildlife accidentally eat, or become tangled up in litter – and it’s

also hazardous to people.

MCS Beachwatch Officer Lauren Davis says it’s crucial we do something to tackle rising litter levels: “We’d like to see much more involvement around the UK coastline. Right now, we’re especially on the lookout for people who can help us organise a beach clean in the area, and anyone can simply volunteer to take part.”

Find out more at www.mcsuk.org/ beachwatch or phone 01989 566017.

Clubs & classes

Extra-curricular activities

By Ellen Arnison

Football or ballet, drama or Brownies – how do you know what, and how much, out-of-school activity is right for your child?

© Elisabetta Figus - Fotolia.com

Not long after your son or daughter disappears through the classroom door for the first time, the choice becomes bewildering. Their schoolbags come home stuffed with leaflets from this or that organisation promising all manner of benefits from enrolling in their classes. You may find yourself feeling guilty if you don’t sign up to everything.

Please take a deep breath and relax.

Extra-curricular activities are not essential; many children do perfectly well without them.

However, there are some benefits from a few well-chosen groups, clubs or classes.

With the best will in the world, school cannot teach all the skills you might consider essential for modern life.

Swimming lessons, for example, or cycling proficiency are crucial for safety.

In addition, carefully selected activities can bring numerous other benefits that could help your child now and in the future.

They will get a huge confidence boost from participating in an enjoyable activity they are successful at. A shy child, for example, may flourish in a dance class.

As well as learning new skills, more subtle benefits include fostering a sense of community, increasing self-sufficiency and allowing a child – particularly one in a large family – something they feel is their own. Club time can also allow one-to-one time for other children.

While these advantages are very real, care must be exercised when choosing activities. Too many and the wrong ones will only leave everyone fed up and exhausted.

The easy choices are the ones your children are desperate to do. Although beware of signing up for something just because your son or daughter’s best friend is doing it, this may not be a good enough reason.

Ask yourself if your child gets something from the activity that they don’t get elsewhere and if it complements what’s already going on.

For example, an active youngster who is already in the football team might be better balancing their activities with music or drama than adding another sport.

Equally a child timid in the classroom may get great gains from being in a choir if it boosts their confidence.

A more tricky area is an activity you’d like your child to do when they’d rather spend their after-school time at home relaxing. Only you can tell if they are genuinely exhausted by a day’s education or not. However, do take their views into account as there really is no point in forcing a child into something they hate. And some school stages are more taxing than others.

After-school activities affect the whole family. No one wants to spend all their time ferrying children from one activity to another while dinner still needs to be prepared and other children become resentful.

So only commit to out-of-school activities that fit comfortably into the schedule and budget.

It may transpire that your time and money can be better spent on family activities at home.

When you do decide on a class or club – take some time to check it out. Find out how long it has been running, do other parents recommend it, are the staff Disclosure or CRB checked?

While extra classes keep your children entertained and active, it’s also important that they have some unstructured time – even that they are allowed to feel bored. If they bounce from one organised thing to the next, they’ll never learn the important skill of amusing themselves.

Liat Hughes Joshi, author of Raising Children: The Primary Years, told Parentdish: “If you decide to do none at all, you won’t be short-changing her if her after-school activity consists of nothing more than a TV programme, a snack and some good, old-fashioned playing.”

© Sonya Etchison - Fotolia.com

SEN activities

blossom as a leading light in the dance troupe.

Equally there are other more Children with special educational educational and developmental benefits needs can benefit hugely from well-chosen extra-curricular activities. that make extra-curricular activities Even with the best educational support, important. Dyspraxic youngsters, for SEN children can often feel ‘less’ than their instance, can find their co-ordination improves while doing karate or trampolining. peers. They may be aware of their Clubs can be important social outlets difficulties and differences and this can for SEN children, perhaps giving them a have a profound effect on their confidence. chance to meet others facing similar Therefore an activity they can participate challenges. The school or local authority in successfully is a huge boost to their self-esteem. For example a dyslexic child, will be able to advise about SEN groups in your area. for whom school is a struggle, may

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Clubs & classes Arts & Crafts

Bean & Brush Family art café in Sale offering arty clubs for all ages (children and adults) together with quality food and drink. Winner of Mamas & Papas Child Friendly Eatery 2012 award.

0161 973 2140 / www.beanandbrush.co.uk Brookside Pottery Pottery painting for individuals or groups in Poynton.

07946 637499 / www.brooksidepottery.com Parsley Pie Art Club Unique and quirky artists retreats for children in Hale, Whitefields and Stockport offering after school and Saturday classes as well as holiday workshops.

0161 904 9444 / www.parsleypie.com Pottery Corner Paint-your-own pottery studio in Chorlton, catering for individuals, groups, parties or corporate team-building! 0161 882 0010 / www.potsareforpainting.co.uk

BABIES

BabyCalm Classes in Altirincham, aimed at empowering new parents to raise their baby with confidence – calm their crying, avoid colic and aid restful sleep.

Diane: 07882 970202 / www.babycalm.co.uk Babywinks Singing, signing, rhymes, music, bubbles and more! For 4 ½ - 18months in Chorlton, Bramhall, Swinton & Didsbury.

Free trial session.

0161 432 3624 / www.kiddiewinksonline.com 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 Sensory Sensory development activity programme designed specifically for babies from birth. Activities stimulate the senses and help your baby develop.

Classes across Manchester.

Didsbury, Sale & Bowden – Kerry: 07841 126945 Trafford – Charlotte: 07791 877879 Stockport & Cheadle – Lindsay: 07590 916004 www.babysensory.co.uk

Sing and Sign Baby Signing Classes in Bolton & Bury. Helen: 07881 507172 www.singandsign.com The Baby Massage Company Touch, Learn, Love. Learn the art of baby massage, meet other parents in your area & most importantly form a close bond with your baby. Classes in Timperley, Urmston, Hale, Glossop, Bramall & Cheadle. 07866 468245 / www.thebabymassagecompany.co.uk

COOKING

Cookie Tots & Kiddy Cook Unique kids cooking classes and parties exclusively designed for children aged 2 – 11.

Hale & Altrincham – Nikki: 07976 619648 www.kiddycook.co.uk Kayterfun Cookery session for little ones at Anchors Away indoor play centre, Stockport, on Fridays at 10.30 – 11.30am. No booking required. 0161 432 4020 / www.anchorsaway.org.uk

DANCE

Baby Ballet A movement to music programme for pre-school boys and girls from 6 months. Bury & Bolton – Miss Jayne 0161 280 3686 / www.babyballet.co.uk Diddi Dance Funky dance classes for 2-4 year olds in Gatley, Didsbury, East Disbury, Burnage & Heaton Moor. Classes are designed to help your diddi ones enhance their co-ordination and rhythm and to nurture their natural love of movement in a structured yet relaxed 45 minute class.

Lisa: 07966 542985 / www.diddidance.com Lesley Taylor School of Dance Ballet & Tap for girls and boys age 2+ in Sale (baby ballet & tap only), Cheadle, & Timperley. Free trial classes in Timplerley and Cheadle.

07702 808467 / 0161 483 1331 / www.lesleytaylor.net Starlight Theatre School Ballet, Tap and Modern Theatre for children of all ages in Bramhall. Anna: 0161 747 4074 / www.starlightschool.co.uk Sunshine Studios Dance classes and courses from ballet to break dance.

Manchester City Centre: 0161 228 6814 www.sunshine-studios.co.uk

INDOOR ACTIVITY CENTRES

Anchors Away, Stockport 3 different play zones, designed to provide a fun and safe environment for pre-walkers, toddlers and juniors. With free Little Superstars sessions on Thursdays (term time only) and cooking classes on Fridays.

Parties also available. 0161 432 4020 / www.anchorsaway.org.uk Anchor’s Away Play, Wythenshawe Boasting one of the most challenging play frames in the country for both young babies to toddlers and for children up to age 11. 0161 437 0665/ www.anchorsawayplay.com Antz in your Pantz, Timperley 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.antzinyourpantz.co.uk

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Boomerang, Bury Play centre offering soft play, interactive and multi-sensory play areas.

0161 764 4842 / www.boomerangcentre.co.uk Curly Whirleez, Bolton Indoor play centre with a Gymnastics Room, Sports Lounge, Sports Court, Fitness for Kids, Yoga, Party Rooms and a Café.

01204 523 620 / www.curlywhirleez.co.uk Funtastic, Radcliffe, Bury Indoor centre run by local parents with an ultra-modern, totally unique, suspended multi use sport court, as well as climbing frame, dedicated area for younger children. 0161 425 8248 / www.funtastic.org.uk Go Wild, Bury Indoor play centre in Bury town centre. 3 lane astraslide and helter skelter and more. Separate baby and toddler area. 0161 764 8268 / www.gowildbury.co.uk Head over Heels, Chorlton & Handforth Gated pre-school area as well as extreme play area for pre-schoolers and over 4s. Pre-school activities every week day morning in term time.

Chorlton: 0161 881 4433 Handforth: 0161 485 2200 www.headoverheelsplay.co.uk Jungle Mayhem, Bury Soft play centre including a sports zone and coin operated electric Go Karts. Separate baby and toddler areas. Babyballet classes on Mondays and Twinkle Toes Ballet/Funky Feet Dance classes for ages 2+ on Fridays term time only.

Pro Kicks football for ages 2 – 5 on Tuesdays.

0161 724 7402 / www.junglemayhem.co.uk Land of Play, Trafford Park Indoor play with indoor go-karting on a custom-built track. Separate toddler’s play area and home-cooked food.

0161 872 9434 / www.landofplay.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 Mischief Makers, Rochdale A safe, friendly and fun environment catering for children from 0-11 years. Interactive 3 level themed play area.

01706 653 656 / www.mischiefmakersltd.co.uk Planet Play, Heywood, Rochdale 5,800 sq feet of play area with a 3 level play frame. Term time activities available.

01706 627 627 / www.planetplay.net 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 Run of the Mill, Stockport Play structure designed to take into account all kinds of different fitness skills such as crawling, balancing, climbing, squeezing, rolling, running, jumping, calculating and sliding.

0161 494 7137 / www.runofthemill.co.uk Wobbly Bobs, Farnworth Soft play centre with separate areas for toddlers, under 5s and older children. Parties also available.

01204 576719 / www.wobblybobs.net Zoom Play Centre, Stockport Play group sessions for babies and toddlers as well as Rhythm & Rhyme music/movement classes during term time. 0161 477 2225 / www.zoomplaycentre.co.uk

LANGUAGE

La Jolie Ronde HappyGoMonkey French is based on fun language learning using games, songs, puppets, dancing, role-play and other exciting activities. Classes run in schools, nurseries and open centres in central and South Manchester for babies to 11 year olds. Natalie Jensen: 0161 224 9952 www.happygomonkey.co.uk Le Club Francais/El Club Español Fun language clubs for children age 4 – 11. www.lcfclubs.com Talking Tots Fun, interactive classes that help your child communicate with confidence. These unique pre-school classes, which follow the developmental stages of language, are bursting with exciting activities and games designed to gently boost young children’s communication skills and social confidence.

Three age appropriate classes which are suitable for children from 12 months to 4 years of age. For classes in Heaton Moor, Didsbury, Chorlton and Stockport contact Siân on 07794 433179 or email sian@talkingtots.info www.talkingtots.info

MUSIC & SOCIAL 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. Using a unique combination of puppets and traditional music, against a backdrop of drama and play, Jabberjacks ensures all activities delivered in their pre-school classes are both stimulating and interactive. Parties for ages 2 – 7 also available. South Manchester (Urmston) – Clare: 07587 186284 North Manchester – Gaynor: 0161 790 8080 www.jabberjacks.co.uk Jo Jingles Music Singing and movement classes for babies and young children.

Manchester North – Jo: 01706 212889 South Manchester – Jacqui: 01925 269136 www.jojingles.com Jittabugs, Sale Activities, games and exercises to promote your child’s movement, balance and memory skills.

Drop-in classes at the Waterside Arts Centre in Sale. Wednesdays (10am) or Fridays (10.15am). Tickets from the box office, £4 a session. Karen: 0161 973 2656 / www.jittabugs.com JoJos Music Music and fun for parents & babies, toddlers & pre-schoolers aged 0-5 years in Culcheth, Stockport & Timperley 07803 205657 / www.jojosmusic.co.uk Kiddiewinks / Babywinks Fun, interactive classes and parties for children from sitting to school age in Chorlton, Bramhall, Cheadle, Swinton and Didsbury.

0161 432 3624 / www.kiddiewinksonline.com KidsRock Fun music classes for children aged 0 – 5 in Bury, Radcliffe, Rawtenstall, Bacup, Whitworth & Swinton.

07855 733308 / www.kidsrockwithchris.com

Clubs & classes 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

Glasshouse Mini Children’s drama classes with a difference - no exams, just have fun and learn invaluable life skills. Classes in Sale, Hale, Ashton on Mersey and Stretford.

Amy: 07983 420 058 / www.glasshousemini.co.uk

Musical Monkeys Musical entertainment and more for pre-school children aged 2+. First class free, and younger siblings under one welcome free of charge too! 0161 976 5176 / www.musical-monkeys.co.uk

Helen O’Grady Drama Academy Bolton/Bury – Karen: 0845 874 0774 South Manchester – Andrew: 0161 929 9586 Oldham/Rochdale – Wendy: 01706 810164 Preston/Swinton/Boothstown – Sarah: 01942 208431 / www.helenogrady.co.uk

Rhythm Time Early learning through music – for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers.

Elton Bury, Greenmount, Ramsbottom & Whitefield – Janet: 07980 632033 North Cheshire – Jane: 01270 529224 South Manchester – Kimberley: 01625 533510 www.rhythmtime.net

Pyjama Drama Drama, movement, music and play for children up to 7 years.

Stockport & Cheshire East – Alison: 0161 820 2210 Trafford & Didsbury – Emma: 0161 820 2209 www.pyjamadrama.com

Rock Out! Guitar, Drums, Bass, Keyboard and Vocals tuition for ages 7+ in Chorlton. Learn an instrument in a structured way while playing with other musicians every week.

0161 862 9634 / www.rockoutschool.com TinyTalk Baby signing and singing classes (0-18 months). Disley, Bramhall – Anita: 07914 088845 / www.tinytalk.co.uk

PERFORMING ARTS

A.B. Academy Theatre School & Saturday Stage School Age 4 – 17 years. ACT, SING DANCE. Past pupils include Daniel Rigby BAFTA Best Actor. Adam Gillon (Liam in Benidorm). GCSE & A’Level Drama, Wednesday evening Piano, Singing Tuition. Fully qualified staff CRB checked.

For prospectus phone 0161 429 7413 www.abacademytheatreschool.webs.com

Stagecoach Theatre Arts School Performing arts for ages 4 – 18.

Altrincham – Marion: 01925 222445 Bolton & Bury – Ruth: 0800 915 0199 Didsbury & Salford – Anne: 0161 789 1349 Oldham – Kate: 01204 301320 Stockport – Cathy: 0161 864 3974 www.stagecoach.co.uk Starlight Performing Arts Academy Drama, dance and music academy in Hazel Grove. Popstar parties and holiday clubs available.

0161 439 8009 / www.starlightperformingarts.co.uk

SPORTS and ACTIVITIES

Beavers, Cubs & Scouts Greater Manchester North: www.gmnscouts.org.uk Greater Manchester West: www.gmwscouts.org.uk Greater Manchester East: www.gmescouts.org.uk Bush Babies Outdoor multi-sensory play sessions for children under 5 (babies included) in Westhoughton and Worsley.

01942 260545 / www.naturesden.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 in Bramhall, Didsbury, Hale, and Wilmslow.

Caroline: 07843 342662 / www.tennistykes.co.uk Rainbows, Brownies & Guides 0800 1 69 59 01 / www.girlguiding.org.uk Enjoy-a-Ball A fun sports programme that gradually develops skills such as concentration, coordination and confidence in a caring, positive and fun environment. Classes for children aged 3-9 years packed with fun activities and games are held in Chorlton, Didsbury and Bramhall. Holiday camps and birthday parties also available. Contact Sam on 07973 886783, www.enjoy-a-ball.com Gymbabes/Tumble Tots/Gymbobs Classes to develop children’s physical skills of agility, balance, co-ordination and climbing.

Bramall, Cheadle & The Heatons – Sue/ Gill: 07851 268083 / 07800 532227 Sale, Didsbury & Hale – Jane: 07812 144450 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 Physi-Ball A fun class for toddlers aged 18 months - 3 years aimed at developing core stability and gross motor co-ordination. Perfect preparation for Enjoy-a-Ball classes from aged 3. Classes in Chorlton and Didsbury.

Contact Sam on 07973 886783, www.enjoy-a-ball.com

Thingyblobs Fabulous fun filled classes for children aged 12 months up to school age. All sorts of great activities to stimulate, educate and entertain little ones, whether it be riding round on horses, learning to care for animals or dancing with pom poms, there really is something for everyone. Grown ups love it too!

Classes run throughout term-time and you’re welcome to join at any time!

Monday: Didsbury 10.30am Tuesday: Sale 1.45pm Wednesday: Bowdon 9.30 & 10.30am Friday: Timperley 9.30 & 10.30am We also do fabulous parties for children aged 2 – 7yrs. Louise 0161 442 9700 / louise@ thingyblobs.co.uk www.thingyblobs.co.uk Trafford Aikido Try something different - Aikido. A non competitive martial arts that seeks to blend through circular movement with attacks and balance taking.

Trafford Aikido based in Altrincham is a small friendly club. Exercise mind and body and grow in confidence. Beginners welcome.

Junior classes from age 8. 07769 790340 / 0161 928 8597 / info@traffordaikido.org.uk www.traffordaikido.org.uk

Football

Active Soccer Football and sport coaching for kids aged 4 - 12 Stockport – Kieran: 0844 822 6392 Warrington – Simon: 07887 852356 www.activesoccer.co.uk Diddikicks Football coaching for 18 months - 5 years in Wilmslow, Worsley & Sale 0161 300 4665 / www.diddikicks.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 18 months to 7 years.

South Manchester, Trafford & Stockport – Alex: 0161 442 5713 North Manchester – Andrew: 07585 552814 www.littlekickers.co.uk

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Clubs & classes Little Sports Coaching Fun football coaching for 3 – 5 year olds.

Each session includes fun warm-ups, games and matches and aim to improve balance, co-ordination and social skills. Sessions run on Thursday afternoons in Prestwich, and Saturday mornings in Wilmslow, Cheadle, Droylsden, Woodley, Reddish and Sale.

0800 032 1806 / www.littlesportscoaching.co.uk Play Football Weekly football coaching sessions for 5-9 year olds run by Bury F.C Community Trust. 0845 459 2000 / www.playfootball.net

Water Babies Multi-award winning ASA approved programme which makes the most of your baby’s natural affinity with water, enabling babies and toddlers to swim underwater as well as on the surface whilst teaching confidence and safety techniques. The progressive toddler course seamlessly aids your child’s transition into mainstream swimming lessons. Water Babies, the start of something extraordinary. Classes available across South Manchester.

0161 312 0048 / www.waterbabies.co.uk

Rugby

Skating

Bolton Rugby Club www.pitchero.com/clubs/bolton Broughton Park Rugby Club www.pitchero.com/clubs/broughtonpark Bury Rugby Club www.pitchero.com/clubs/bury Didsbury Rugby Club www.pitchero.com/clubs/didsburytochrfc Manchester Rugby Club www.pitchero.com/clubs/manchester Rochdale Rugby Club www.rrufc.org Sale Rugby Club www.salefc.com Sedgley Park Tigers Rugby Club www.pitchero.com/clubs/sedgleyparktigers Trafford MV RFCC www.pitchero.com/clubs/traffordmv

Swimming Puddle Ducks A wonderful swimming programme delivering nurturing, fun classes to over 8000 babies, toddlers and children across the UK every week. Babies and children can join our swimming classes at any age from birth, developing into confident swimmers without even realising they’re learning to swim.

By engaging each child’s abilities and natural affinity with water, Puddle Ducks offer simple steps to a lifetime love of swimming. We recognise that every child is different: our fantastic teachers adapt each activity to suit each child, nurturing water confidence so that your child will become a happy little swimmer. Call 0161 883 0222 for classes in and around Manchester and Oldham and 01257 262622 for classes in East Lancashire. www.puddleducks.com

Jabberjacks – a fantastic business opportunity

Nevada Roller Rink Roller skating events and lessons at Burnden Sports Centre, Bolton. www.nevadarollerrink.co.uk Silver Blades Ice Skating rink in Altrincham offering skating sessions and lessons.08700 85 29 29 / www.altrinchamicedome.co.uk

SUPPORT 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. Centres in Altrincham, Cheadle Hulme and Heaton Park.

Altrincham: 0161 2410006 Cheadle Hulme: 0161 6698140 Heaton Park: 0161 6694839 www.explorelearning.co.uk Inspire Learning Maths, reading and writing tutoring for children in years 2 - 6 in Ramsbottom. GCSE Englaish, Maths, Science and French tutoring also available. www.inspirelearningcentre.co.uk 11+ Online Tuition Online one-to-one tuition for 11+ in English, Maths, Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning.

Contact Rachel on 07407 643547, www.elevenplustutor-nw.co.uk Kumon Maths and English tuition across Greater Manchester.

Bury – Fran: 0161 408 4934 Chorlton – Jackie: 0161 434 4579 Crumpsall – Masooma: 0161 900 9289 Didsbury – Donna: 0161 718 9313 Heaton Moor – Sue: 0161 431 4884 Heywood – Anna: 01706 627874 Levenshulme – Sharron: 0161 248 4899 Prestwich – Susan: 0161 796 1587 Rochdale – Robin: 01706 759352 Sale – Hannah: 0800 854 714 Timperley – Eliana: 0161 980 0851 Urmston – Sharon: 0161 749 8177 www.kumon.co.uk To be included in this directory, call 01625 801801 or email jayne@familiesmanchester.co.uk

6 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Here’s a rare chance to take the reins of one of the UK’s top children’s party providers. Starting your own business can be both daunting and expensive; so many people are now considering franchising opportunities as a way of minimising the risk. An even better opportunity is when the franchise has already been established and run successfully for over 8 years, ensuring you already have a good reputation and an established market.

Jabberjacks Franchising Ltd has an opportunity for someone to take over the running of the franchise in South Manchester which offers children’s parties and pre-school classes using a cast of colourful puppet characters, music, songs and dance. No special skills are required, just enthusiasm and determination for success. A full training package is provided and as a franchisee you will run your business for yourself but not by yourself!

The popular business has been running successfully by Jabberjacks franchisee Clare Bescoby, who has now decided, after entertaining 100’s of children over the last 3 years, to step down.

Clare said: “I’m very sad to be leaving Jabberjacks but I have been successful in securing a role with NSPCC which I feel very passionate about and combined with changes in family circumstances, I’m unable to continue giving my business the attention it deserves. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone else to take over in an area where Jabberjacks is well known and has been established for over many years.

“Running my Jabberjacks franchise has given me the opportunity to work from home doing a job I enjoy while fitting in with my young family - and allowing me to be at home with them during the school holidays!

It’s a great feeling when you can see that you’ve helped make a child’s birthday party a truly special and memorable occasion.”

Verity Graham, Director of Jabberjacks Franchising said “We are really sorry to see Clare go; she has been a great part of the Jabberjacks family. We know she will be missed and we wish her every success in her new career. We also want to reassure people that whilst we look for a new person to take on the Jabberjacks reins, Clare will still be running the business and delivering the fantastic parties.”

The Jabberjacks family boasts 10 franchises throughout the UK and is rapidly growing in popularity.

Its classes serve up a feast of educational activity for toddlers and pre-school children and its special party entertainment ensures great birthdays for children aged between two and seven years old.

Jabberjacks, which started in 1999, has proved itself to be a winning formula ensuring an enjoyable experience for children and a profitable business for the franchise owner in a market area which continues to boom despite the recession.

The franchise package is ideal for people who want a new challenge in their lives but who want control of their own work/life balance, with low start up costs, minimal risk and an excellent training scheme.

With this excellent support, a new franchisee can continue to deliver parties and classes within a few months of taking up the South Manchester reins.

To find out more about this Franchise opportunity call Clare on 07587 186284 or email clare@jabberjacks.co.uk.

For more information about Jabberjacks Franchising visit www.jabberjacks.co.uk/franchising

Clubs & classes Give me 5!

This autumn, Enjoy-a-Ball South Manchester turns 5 years old and to celebrate, one lucky Enjoy-a-Baller will win a whole year of Enjoy-a-Ball classes! All you have to do is ‘like’ the Enjoy-a-Ball Manchester Facebook page and ‘share’ with friends. Go to: facebook.com/enjoyaballmanchester ‘The past five years have been fantastic and the classes have gone from strength to strength’, says Sam

from Enjoy-a-Ball. ‘July this year was quite an emotional time for us, as it marked the first complete cycle of children finishing the entire programme, having started with us aged three and four. To see their skills develop so well has been very rewarding and it’s sad to know we won’t be coaching them in September.

However, we are very proud that they now have a great foundation of skills to take them further into sport!’

Boosted by the recent success of Physi-Ball for children from 18 months onwards, and their recent 3 awards at the What’s on for Little Ones awards, they’re really looking forward to the next 5 years!

If you’d like your child to give Enjoya-Ball a try, call or email Sam: 07973 886783 / southmanchester@enjoy-a-ball.com www.enjoy-a-ball.com

Music Bugs preschool music and singing classes. A top-to-toe aid for child development.

At Music Bugs, the aim is not to teach music, but to allow and encourage young children to develop, grow and explore the world around them through music and song.

Participation in music and singing classes is a great way for your child to socialise and develop in a creative and stimulating environment. Research shows that singing songs and rhymes on a regular basis helps to widen a child’s vocabulary and listening skills which are an essential part of learning

to read, write and communicate.

During a typical 40-minute class, you’ll sing nursery rhymes, counting songs, knee bouncers, action songs and finger play rhymes and use a fantastic variety of props to help engage your child’s attention and bring the sessions to life.

To enrol for the new term of classes in September (held in Cheadle, Hale and Wilmslow) and to book a free trial session, contact Stacey Blank on 0844 822 1175 or email stacey@musicbugs.co.uk www.musicbugs.co.uk

Water Babies have a splashing time with Peppa Pig raising money for Tommy’s!

Local Water Babies classes across Manchester run by Vicki and David Oldfield, saw waves of babies and toddlers carry out Pirate-themed challenges in July to raise money for Tommy’s, the baby charity helping mums have healthy pregnancies.

Tiny babies were each set a fun challenge by their teacher that they had never completed before, such as doing an underwater treasure hunt, while older babies and toddlers raised money by walking the

plank and swimming independently as far as they could. “For many of the parents, the sight of their baby doing their challenge was a very proud moment”, says David. “Water Babies is supporting Tommy’s for a fifth year but this is the first year we have been involved and we have made a big splash raising nearly £4,500 in Manchester alone!”

Baby swimming lessons are a great form of gentle exercise for parents and babies whilst also being excellent for enhancing baby bonding. “Our aim is to create a really fun and sociable environment”, explains David, “and the Splashathon has definitely been just that.”

For more information on Water Babies classes phone 0161 312 0048 or visit www.waterbabies.co.uk

Little Sports Coaching - Fun Football for boys and girls aged 3-5 years Introduce your 3 – 5 year olds children to football skills such as dribbling, passing, shooting, heading and running. These fun based but structured sessions will also help co-ordination, balance, movement, social skills, communication and space awareness.

Sessions run on Thursday afternoons in Prestwich, and Saturday mornings in Wilmslow, Cheadle, Droylsden, Woodley, Reddish and Sale.

For more information, call 0800 032 1806. www.littlesportscoaching.co.uk

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 7

Clubs & classes

Advertise in Families Manchester Call Jayne on: 01625 801801 or email advertising@familiesmanchester.co.uk

8 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Parents’ place Living with Exzema

By Dr Adam Simon, Primus Healthcare

Eczema is very common, affecting about 15% of school children. The cause is unknown, but genes do play a role; if a parent has eczema, there’s a 60% chance their children will have it. However, if both parents are affected, there’s an 80% chance their children will have it too.

There are several stages of eczema.

Stage 1 – the skin feels dry Stage 2 – some areas become red and inflamed. This commonly affects the knee and elbow creases and the face, neck and wrists.

Stage 3 – this inflamed skin is extremely itchy. Scratching it breaks the skin and makes the inflammation worse Stage 4 – the inflamed skin can become infected.

Top 10 tips for dealing with the condition: 1. Identify and avoid things that trigger your eczema. There are many potential triggers. These include: Soaps and detergents; Certain clothes fabrics; Extremes of temperature; Food allergies; Pet hairs; House dust mites and Pollen 2. Use lots of the right moisturiser.

Doctors tend to talk about emollients rather than moisturisers.

Emollients are creams and ointments that stop the skin becoming dry.This helps prevent itchy skin. Thicker ointments last longer on skin and work better than thinner creams, but they are less cosmetically attractive and harder to apply. You cannot overdose on emollient cream – use lots and use it often.

3. Be careful in the bath or shower. Think about using an emollient bath additive or shower gel and use an emollient cream as a soap substitute. But remember, bath additives make the bath slippery – so use a bath mat.

4. Do not scratch / itch or rub. While itching may make you feel better for a very short time IT ALWAYS MAKES THE ECZEMA WORSE. If the skin is feeling itchy, dab on generous amounts of emollient cream to try and reduce the itch.

5. Do not be scared of steroid creams / ointments. These reduce the inflammation of the skin. Your GP will prescribe the correct strength of steroid creams and these are usually applied until the flare of eczema has gone. In most cases a 7 – 14 day course of steroid is sufficient to clear the flare-up.

The best treatment is the lowest strength steroid that clears the problem. If there is no improvement after 4 – 6 days, ask your GP to prescribe a stronger steroid.

6. Use the right amount of the steroid.

There is a guide to how much steroid should be applied to different areas of the body depending on the age of the person. See www.patient.co.uk/ health/fingertip-units-for-topicalsteroids for more information, or refer to the excellent factsheet on topical steroids found on the National Eczema Society website www.eczema.org/ corticosteroids.

7. Emollients before steroids. When using emollient and steroid together, apply the emollient first and allow it to soak in (roughly 15 minutes) before applying the steroid cream.

8. Be aware of flare-ups. These sometimes require strong steroids, changing or increasing emollients and antibiotics.

Early treatment of a flare-up can stop it in its tracks. Keep using emollients even when the flare-up has subsided, as this will help to prevent another flare-up.

9. If your emollient is not working, try changing creams – but get your GP to best advise you on this.

10. See your GP. Eczema is a very frustrating condition. Despite excellent application of emollients, flare-ups still occur. Your GP is best placed to assess and treat these and recommend the best on-going treatment. If your eczema does not respond to treatment adequately, your GP can reassess your treatment or possibly refer you to a dermatologist.

Advertise in Families Manchester Call Jayne on: 01625 801801 or email advertising@familiesmanchester.co.uk Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 9

Header place Parents’ The Benefits of Inclusion

By Rachael Ross, Chair, Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association (Footprints). www.footprintsds.org

© Blitz Photography www.blitzphotography.co.uk

When I went to school in the mid ‘70s and ‘80s, children with any form of disability were not actively encouraged into mainstream education. This absence of anyone with a disability was also reflected in the wider community. Consequently when I left school, and for much of my early adult life, I had never even met or spoken to a person with a disability, leaving me awkward and unsure how to interact in their company.

Thankfully times have changed, and children with a wide variety of additional needs are now commonplace in mainstream education. Children like my son Max. Max is eight and happens to have Down syndrome (also referred to as Down’s syndrome). Until the 1970s it was still widely believed that children with Down syndrome were uneducable, and they were denied that most fundamental of childhood rights; an education. We now know that with the right specialist support these children can learn alongside their peers, and today, more children than ever before are being successfully included in mainstream schools. That’s not to say that special schools do not play an equally important role. It has to be a decision based on what’s best for each individual child and their specific needs.

For Max, the benefits in attending

mainstream education are huge. Speech and language issues are a significant problem for nearly all children with Down syndrome, and can lead to frustration and isolation if not tackled head on. Studies show that when they attend mainstream school, these children develop at least two years faster with spoken language and literacy.

They also benefit from having positive role models. Max needs to be around his typically developing peers, not just for PE and playtime, but there needs to be meaningful interaction. He needs to feel that he is part of the class, part of the wider school community, with the same opportunities and responsibilities as the other children. Otherwise how can we expect him to interact successfully with society as an adult?

We are very fortunate that Max’s teachers have created a welcoming and caring environment where he is very much a part of school life. When we visit, I am always overwhelmed by the genuine affection and friendship shown to Max by both staff and pupils. Many of the children have grown up with Max, and see it as nothing unusual that he is in their class working with them.

In turn, I’m sure the children benefit from being with Max. They learn to celebrate differences. They learn acceptance and patience, and will hopefully grow into more

tolerant adults which will lead to a more accepting and integrated society.

Inclusion is helping to steadily improve society’s attitude towards Down syndrome, fuelled by more positive media portrayal.

Several top retailers including M&S, Next and Boden have used children with Down syndrome in their advertising campaigns.

Actors with Down syndrome have played characters in popular TV shows such as Glee and Downton Abbey. Individuals are becoming role models, and are themselves changing misconceptions, like Simon Beresford, who in 2007 became the first person with Down syndrome to complete the London Marathon, and now eight marathons later is an inspiration for people around the world.

More is being achieved than ever before, but there is a still a long way to go. Down syndrome is the most common cause of intellectual disability and yet funding does not reflect this. The situation has worsened in the recent economic climate, and parents are becoming increasingly frustrated by the lack of access to specialist support like speech and language therapy, which help enable their children to participate in mainstream education. As the Coalition Government plans to ‘end the bias towards mainstream’, there is a real risk that 30 years of slow uphill progress will be undermined unless there is adequate investment in training, research, resources and specialist support.

We have seen glimpses of what can be achieved as children with the right skills and support go on to lead more independent and productive lives, enter employment, and become valued members of their communities. But as yet, there has never been an entire generation of children with Down syndrome that has passed through the system with adequate and sustained support in all areas of need, continuing into early adulthood. Until this happens, we will never be sure of their true capabilities.

Local support groups: Bolton Smiley Faces: www.boltonsmileyfaces.org.uk Bury Down’s Syndrome Support Group: 07796 765361 / www.dsbury.org.uk Manchester Down Syndrome Support Group: www.downsyndromesupportgroup.org/ local/manchester South Manchester Down’s Syndrome Support Group: 07593 542 107 / www.dsmanchester.org.uk

Some Facts about Down syndrome • Approximately 1 in 1,000 babies in the UK are born with Down syndrome • Most people born with Down syndrome have an extra copy of chromosome 21, making a total of 47 chromosomes instead of the usual 46 • In 1960 the life expectancy for someone with Down syndrome was 10. In 1983 it was 25. Today it is 60+ • Studies show 87% of children with Down syndrome attend mainstream primary schools, but only 25% go on to mainstream secondary schools as access to specialist support like speech and language therapy declines further • It is estimated 80% adults with DS could enter employment with the right support, but only 20% are given the opportunity

Pillow talk

By K Bajwa, Consultant Osteopath at SOS clinics UK & “Beyond Bedtime” The Kids’ Pillow Specialists Fact: Not enough or poor quality sleep is a significant factor in lowering the achievement of school pupils. Recently published research

by Boston College, USA, found that the school performance of 73% of 9 and 10 year olds was adversely affected by insufficient sleep.

If kids are unable to concentrate, they are unable to achieve at their optimal level.

Sleep is a fundamental need for all children. In my clinics, more parents have brought their children to me for treatment because their child will not sleep than all other conditions put together.

A good bedtime routine, no television, computers, electronic games or mobile phones near to bedtime can all improve sleep. The correct bedroom temperature is also important.

10 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

We all realise the importance of the correct size shoes and clothing for our growing children but often overlook the fact that they need the correct support for their head and neck when sleeping.

Beyondbedtime.co.uk are kids’ pillow specialists, selling fine 100% cotton machine-washable pillows with hypoallergenic fill just for children.

Lack of sleep can often be the

difference between a high performing child and an average one. Sleeping on the right height kids’ pillow can definitely help them to sleep better. www.beyondbedtime.co.uk

Parents’ place Legal services within Easy Reach New rules in the legal services sector mean that non-solicitors can now enter the legal market, resulting in everyone from your local supermarket to banks and newsagents offering you legal services.

Easy Reach Legal™ is a real firm of solicitors based in Cheshire that has been around in one form or another at their head office in Macclesfield for the last 150 years. Experienced professionals who aim to be fair and ethical and who are constantly evolving to meet their client’s needs, their goal is to make access to legal services easier, at a time that suits you and at a fair fixed price.

So, as well their traditional services, they’ve developed a range of online Family Law services that you can access at your convenience.

These include: • An online divorce service, dealt with entirely by a solicitor for £240 + VAT + court fees.

• A Pay As You Go service for £100 + VAT • Consent Order drafting service from £40 + VAT • Free first interview • Home visits at no extra cost In addition, they share their website with E Reach Legal Ltd, a company that specialises in good quality legal templates for those times when all you need is a little help.

You can buy the following online: • Separation Agreements : £40 • Parental Responsibility Agreements: £15 • Change of Name Pack: £20 For full details of all their services see www.easyreachlegal.co.uk. Or contact them by phone on 01625 429131 or by email info@easyreachlegal.co.uk.

Giddy Goat turns 1!

Giddy Goat Toys in Albert Hill Street, Didsbury turns one this September and to celebrate is offering 10% off all purchases during the month. This independent, traditional children’s toy shop and online store offers a fantastic range of toys, books and games for children of all ages.

Family owned, the shop is run by a

team of enthusiastic and experienced staff who take pride in helping you find the perfect gift within your budget.

Happy to offer help and advice over the phone as well in store – you can contact them on 0161 445 1097. www.giddygoattoys.co.uk

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 11

Parents’ place Header You just have to ask

By Amanda Butterworth, www.inspiredlivingandpsychotherapy.com

Do you ask questions?

Or do you just accept everything?

Most of us grow up without ever questioning our conditioning. We assume that our lives and all that are in it are there because it’s normal.

Our conditioning comes through, amongst other things, what our parents tell us, what goes on in school or at work, what society shows us and let’s not forget the power of TV! So we get to adulthood thinking that everything is as it should be. But what if it isn’t? How would it be if we started to question what we accept as a given and normal state? Think how our life could change!

I mean after all, maybe what’s good for the neighbour doesn’t necessarily have to mean that it’s good for you, but you don’t know if you don’t ask.

So how about it? How about looking at certain aspects of your life and asking yourself if they are really what you want.

Oh, and before you start freaking out, I’m not asking you to throw in the towel and get rid of everything in one go; start one small step at a time.

For instance: • When you’re eating your breakfast, ask yourself if that’s really what you want, or if you just eat it because you’ve always eaten it.

• Same thing with your tea. Is that the tea you really like, or just the one you’re used to?

• When you do routine jobs, ask yourself if you like doing them that way, or is it maybe time to see if they can’t be done in another way which is more pleasing or satisfying.

• When you go to work, are you taking the fastest, most logical route, or the one you find more enjoyable?

• Are you doing some things because that’s the way your parents did them and you’re unquestioningly repeating the pattern?

• Do you buy that brand because you like it or because you’ve been told it’s great / what you want / the best?

See what I’m getting at? Some of the things we do we don’t question and they can impact how we feel. It is so easy to make little changes that can immediately add to your happiness and pleasure levels. You just have to ask: is this good for me, is this really what I fancy?

Imagine how your life will be when you start to fill it with events and moments that are truly enjoyable, genuinely what you want…

For more on this article and others on relationships and personal development see www.familiesonline.co.uk/ loveactually

12 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Once a Week Take a Peek Back to school time often brings on every parent’s worst nightmare – HEAD LICE. There are numerous products available to deal with them, but the best way to manage an infestation at home is to COMB COMB COMB! 55% of people don’t itch with head lice, so don’t use this as a warning sign of an infestation. And, don’t just have a quick cursory glance in your child’s hair – they can be very tricky to spot.

This is why most people only discover their child has lice once the infestation has really taken hold – which makes it even more difficult to deal with.

The best approach to take with head lice is to remember the mantra “Once a Week Take a Peek”.

Equip yourself with a metal nit comb, leave in conditioner, a sectioning /tail comb, some small hair bands and some tissue / paper towels. Plus a good DVD is crucial to ensure little heads stay still!!!

The key is your technique: 1. Apply conditioner and comb through to ensure no tangles.

2. Use a tail comb to separate the hair into manageable, even sections 3. Using your nit comb, comb the hair from the roots right to the ends and then comb from every angle wiping the comb clean as you go.

4. Pay extra attention to those warm spots in the nape of the neck, the crown of the head and behind the ears. A thorough comb should take you from 30 – 50 minutes, depending on hair length/thickness.

Head lice are the second most communicable health issue behind the common cold so it’s likely that every child will have them at some point.

At The Hairforce – Lice Assassins, we consider ourselves experts on head lice and are happy to offer advice. We offer a full range of services, from head checks, school ‘nit nurse’ checking service, to fully guaranteed clears, using no nasty chemicals.

And as mothers ourselves, we can assure you we hate them just as much as you do!

For more information call us on 01625 523109 or go to www.thehairforce.co.uk/wilmslow

Parents’ place Say goodbye to being shy

By Elisabeth Dolton

Christmas parties and family get-togethers at this time of the year can spell a worrying time if your child is shy. Take Holly’s experience with her 6 year old son, Thomas, “Thomas is a lovely little boy but when he met anyone he hadn’t met before he was unable to speak, he lost all his manners and just looked at the floor.”

This is not unusual.

Shyness is a perfectly normal trait in childhood, but when lives become restricted by shyness, we must take action as there is no question that shyness robs us of opportunities that other people take for granted. The good news is that there are a lot of practical things that can gently encourage a shy child to be more outgoing.

Mixing in society Start by inviting one friend over for half an hour at home, then moving to more friends, more time and then outside the home.

Children learn social skills from watching others so model the kind of interactions you want to encourage: be warm and friendly with people you don’t know, introduce yourself to new people, ask people for help, and compliment friends.

Drama queens (and kings) Shyness doesn’t necessarily mean low self-esteem; it usually comes from fear or feeling worried about what other people think.

Simple acting techniques from drama classes

“I know this sounds strange, but as a kid, I was really shy. Painfully shy.”

Jim Carrey

soon equip children with the ability express themselves more clearly in front of others.

Equally, presenting ourselves in a confident manner by sitting up straight and making eye-contact, even when we don’t feel like it, will make any child feel bolder because of the positive way others will react to them.

Facing up to it Perhaps the most effective way to help your child to be less shy is to talk openly with them about it. Refer to situations that are daunting and empathise “sometimes I feel worried about speaking up at work, but I always make and effort and feel good afterwards”. Holly added that she “used to read books to Thomas that had themes of facing fears or overcoming challenges”.

Dress Rehearsal Watch what situations trigger shyness in your child then role play them later at home, giving hints on how they can feel more courageous when next out in public.

“Thomas always felt nervous going to birthday parties, so we decided to set up a party scene at home, using his favourite toys and acted out the different scenarios: giving the party boy their present; saying hello to other children; asking the adult where the toilet is; saying thank you on leaving. It worked a treat”, said Holly.

A karaoke machine or sing along DVD will encourage your child to be more adventurous with their speech and movement.

Record them pretending to be a news reader, or presenter interviewing their ‘celebrity’ friend.

Lights, camera, action Trying new activities in a gradual way helps overcome shyness. Holly had always been encouraging Thomas to try out new things.

Speak the language of disapproval not shame

By Neil Seligman

When a child does something that we consider to be wrong or inappropriate it is vital that we show disapproval for the behaviour rather than shaming the child for who they are. Language is crucial here: There is a world of difference between saying: 1) I am extremely disappointed with you and 2) I am extremely disappointed with your behaviour.

It is of course crucial that we guide children with clear boundaries of acceptable and unacceptable behaviour, yet when we need to express disapproval we must learn to do so without breaking relationship and without withdrawing unconditional love.

Disapproval for actions should not be expressed as commentary on the essential nature of the child which would be shaming the child as fundamentally flawed. Shame language creates insecurity, unworthiness and feels like wholesale rejection.

Alternatively, disapproval in relation to behaviour allows the child to engage with you about what went wrong and what the consequences should be for the behaviour whilst all the time being safely held in the context of a relationship based in unconditional love.

Remember also to speak to your own feelings around your child’s behaviour and to call forward the behaviour that you would like to see. Life Coach, Jacquie Stebbings

“I’m shy, paranoid, whatever word you want to use.” Johnny Depp

“I knew Thomas had achieved an improved level of outgoingness when in the end-of-term football lesson, he waited 30 minutes for his turn to kick a ball through the cones and straight into the goal – in front of everyone.

He has really come out of his shell.”

Taking trays of nibbles round guests, being photographer at a family occasion, going into a shop and asking for the price are all great ways to take their mind off their shyness. But don’t force them into doing things that make them uncomfortable; play to their strengths. Your child’s shyness will vanish if he is encouraged to get better at things he already excels at.

“I was just genuinely shy.

I’d always been a shy kid.”

Elton John Above all, being calm will sooth many a shy child. Relax Kids (www. relaxkids.com) sell a range of CDs that provide ‘chill skills’ to relax children and as a result boosts their confidence.

Our attitude is crucial We all want our children to outgrow their shyness and latest research indicates that how parents respond to shyness is what makes the difference. Labelling our child as ‘shy’ would certainly be discouraged; they often turn into self-fulfilling prophecies. In the same sense, we should always avoid dismissing any feelings of shyness e.g. “don’t be silly, big boys don’t get shy”.

Comments like this lead children to feel that their worries are not valid, leading to anxiety. Be supportive by combining empathy with confident assertions, “Ahh, I offers us this great example from family life: “Joely playfully hit me yesterday. She did it a few times and I brought in an “I” statement (about my feelings of being hit) - I said: I don’t like being hit, Joely. Then I offered to her what I do like: I like to be hugged though. She then transformed her hitting to giving me a hug.

Often children are wanting our attention, they want the focus to be on them - I get this.

Hitting is certainly a way for Joely to get my attention. Giving her an alternative behaviour is helping her to expand her perspective (and resourcefulness) on how to draw people to attend to her.”

Keep learning – being a great parent means being a great student Your children look to you for guidance, strength and care. They are absorbing your actions, your emotions and learning how to be, how to respond, how to behave. For you

can see you’re feeling a bit worried, but I’m really confident you’ll be able to handle it”.

A child’s ability to comfortably relate to a wide variety of people is one of the most important ingredients to happiness and success. The thing to remember is that the majority of children will find their way through all of this with a bit of guidance, and will soon be waving their hands in the air to answer questions, belting out songs during group sings, and being the first in the queue for trying new things.

Shaking off shyness for a child with SEN Children with learning disabilities need to be given a healthy dose of praise and constructive criticism to develop into shy-free, confident adults.

• Positivity - A child with learning disabilities is prone to undergo more stress and frustration than the average child. Praise all victories, big and small • Provide simple responsibilities in social situations – distraction from feeling shy • Pair your shy child with another child in each important setting • Coordinate your efforts with those of other relevant adults • Help them find his or her areas of strength - explain the significance to them and offer many chances to use them • Discuss the various aspects of your child’s life with them: school, friends, homework, teachers etc.

Sources www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/advice/factfile www.babycenter.com www.psychologytoday.com/blog to fulfil this, the ultimate of leadership roles as best you can, focusing on your own personal development, wellbeing and learning is vital.

So make time for the yoga, persevere with the meditation and read books that take you beyond your current knowledge and awareness.

Anything which expands your ability to stay present, to reveal your humanity, to remain stable in the face of vulnerability will serve you and your family well.

Neil Seligman is a former barrister and Director at The Conscious Professional Ltd. www.theconsciousprofessional.com To read more about Conscious Parenting, go to www.familiesonline.co.uk

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 13

Back to school Learn to read with Reading Eggs

Reading Eggs is the award-winning online reading programme for children aged 3-13. Children love working and playing on the computer and the Reading Eggs programme is all about bringing out the best in each child using unique worlds of interactive reading and writing activities.

Proven reading results • Over 90% of parents have noticed an improvement in their child’s reading ability since using Reading Eggs • The lessons content and format are based on solid scientific research • Has a core reading curriculum of phonics and sight words supporting what children learn at school • Uses skills and strategies essential for sustained reading success • The programme is used by over 2 million children worldwide (and counting!)

• Reading Eggs has been developed by expert educators with over 20 years’ experience

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14 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Why children love Reading Eggs • There are over 512 interactive games, motivating rewards and songs • It makes reading fun – children want to learn • The programme supplies one-on-one lessons that match your child’s ability • Detailed assessment reports show and recognize progress • Suitable for children aged 3 - 13 From 26 August – 30 September, your child can join thousands of children across the UK taking part in the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge – a nationwide effort to inspire children to read!

This FREE event will give your child 5 weeks FREE access* to Reading Eggs – the online reading programme that teaches children aged 3-13 the literacy skills needed for lifetime reading success.

Sign up for your FREE trial* today and see for yourself how your child’s reading improves by using Reading Eggs. Simply register your child at www.readingeggs.co.uk/dog. *Free trial only available for new customers who register at www.readingeggs.co.uk/dog.

Back to school A nutritional lunchbox According to research, just one per cent of lunchboxes in the UK meet the nutritional standards for school lunches. Why is this? Well is seems our lunchboxes lack variety. In fact whole food groups are missing – most commonly vegetables and fruit, but sometimes protein too.

Conquering unhealthy lunches is key to making sure our children become healthy adults, childhood obesity is on the increase and currently 30% of all children aged two to 15 are considered obese. Nutrition expert the Lunchbox Doctor, Jenny Tschiesche gives Families some advice on how to create a delicious, healthy and balanced lunch for your kids.

Jenny is the author of an award-winning book called ‘Not Just Sandwiches – 5 ways to improve your child’s lunchbox’ which is available on Amazon. One of the chapters of the book and the area of lunchbox preparation that she is most often asked about is preparing a healthy lunchbox on a budget.

There are six components to the nutritionally balanced lunchbox.

These are carbohydrate, protein, calcium, vegetable, fruit and a drink. If each of these groups is represented in your child’s lunchbox then it is balanced.

Here are her top tips to achieving a healthy lunch without breaking the bank: Carbohydrate Invest in a good thermos container that can keep food warm. It means that you can be a lot more adventurous with your food. The foods below can be good served hot or cold.

Make leftover risotto into balls, cover in beaten egg and breadcrumbs then gently sauté in olive oil.

Use old bread to make into croutons for soup or breadcrumbs for covering chicken or fish before baking. These nuggets or fingers work well with low sugar ketchup.

Stir garlic, cream cheese and some peas or sweetcorn in to warm pasta.

Protein Go to the deli counter and buy the ‘cuts’: the odd shaped pieces that get left and are lower in cost simply because they look less perfect than other pieces.

Use beans, lentils and chickpeas as an addition to a salad, in soups or to make delicious dips (you can also sprout many

beans, which are great in salads).

Rather than buy processed meat slices, cut slices from the left over Sunday Roast.

Calcium Buy large pots of natural yogurt (which is full of calcium) and divide into small reusable pots with a topping of honey, agave, sugar-free jam, muesli and frozen or fresh fruit.

Budget hummus typically contains less tahini (the expensive ingredient) and more chickpeas (the cheaper ingredient) and yet is no less nutritious.

Tinned salmon or sardines both make great calcium-rich sandwich fillings.

Fruit Buy local and in season if possible to reduce the loss of nutrients through transporting fruit over long distances.

Use tinned fruit in fruit juice not syrup alone or with natural yogurt.

Frozen fruit is a cheaper way to enjoy nutrient-rich berries and tropical fruit such as mango all year round. Add to smoothies, use in baking or enjoy with natural yogurt.

Vegetables Frozen Mediterranean vegetables such as peppers are sweet and succulent once roasted. Add to pasta or rice for a tasty main course for lunch.

Root vegetables in season are a great basis for a quick and easy coleslaw or raw-slaw. Simple grate or use a ribbon peeler and add salad cream or vinaigrette dressing.

A large jar of black olives can go a long way. Use on pizzas, fill with cream cheese using an icing bag, serve as part of a salad or whizz into a paste with herbs and olive oil to go onto pasta.

Drink Good old tap water will suffice in a water bottle that you clean out regularly using hot soapy water.

Cartons of milk provide both hydration and calcium.

If you opt for a carton of juice avoid cartons labelled as ‘fruit drink’. Preferably go for fresh fruit juice or juice ‘from concentrate’. Concentrate simply means that the water from the fruit was removed at source for cheaper transportation.

For more information visit www.lunchboxdoctor.com or join the growing community at www.facebook. com/lunchboxdoctor.

Has England got it wrong?

By Joanna Parry

Here in England our students are used to a selective, vigorous education. We specialise in subjects at an early age.

Our courses are test-driven, our exams rigorous and getting more so, and subjects such as music, drama and sport have been all but squeezed out. But have we got it all wrong? As education minister Michael Gove announces measures to make the exams taken by students in England even more demanding, look across the border and we can see that education in Scotland is run very differently. There, students take a curriculum in which national exams for 16-year-olds have been abolished. While schools in England encourage students to specialise, Scottish schools traditionally aim for a greater breadth of knowledge.

Their secondary education lasts six years,

ending with a single set of national exams, and their university degree programs last four years, compared with only three in England and Wales. In a nutshell, Scottish schools focus on more than just tests.

‘When the Scottish Parliament came into being in 1999, we realised our schools were not performing as well as they should,’ said the Scottish education minister, Michael Russell. ‘Our students were over examined, our schools over inspected and the curriculum was too divided up and too shallow.’ So Scotland introduced the Curriculum for Excellence, paying more attention to how subjects were taught. Starting with kindergarten, the curriculum has progressed through the system one year at a time and has just reached the 16-year-olds who, until this

year, would have taken Standard Grade exams. Students still take exams in as many as 15 subjects but those are pass/fail and set by their teachers. ‘I don’t believe for a minute that Curriculum for Excellence is touchy-feely or that we are watering down standards,’ said Gordon Moulsdale, head teacher at Bishopbriggs Academy near Glasgow. ‘It used to be that only students who did well on exams were thought of as the smart ones. But we’ve learned that there are different kinds of intelligence.’ The changes mean a slightly longer school week, and more time for music, drama, sports and community service: precisely the areas that have been squeezed in England by the need

to prepare students for so many exams. It is clear that in Scotland there is no appetite for the selective, competitive and test-driven approach being promoted by Michael Gove in England, and it looks like the experiment is succeeding.

So should England take note?

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 15

Back to school

Header

The best possible start at a new school How do you prepare your child for his or first day at a new school?

It’s all about finding the fun, says Joanna Moorhead

© kolett - Fotolia.com

The summer before my eldest daughter started at primary school, a rather wonderful thing happened. We were having work done on our house, and by chance a friend mentioned that a friend of hers was looking for a housesitter. It suited us perfectly to move out of our home for a few months, to escape the builders’ dust, so we did just that. And our temporary home, as it happened, was next door to the primary school at which Rosie would start in September.

We moved in May, so from then until the end of July she and I would watch, each morning, as the children walked and ran and scootered past our door, in their grey and purple uniforms. They looked happy and excited; they were meeting their friends, having fun. The street would then go quiet until about 10.30am when we’d hear them again in the playground; and then again after lunch, until at 3.30pm they’d all stream out again, and head back home with their mummies

and the occasional daddy.

I’m sure I talked to Rosie about what it would be like in reception class, and I’m sure I taught her to open her lunchbox and get her own shoes on and off and all the other things you’re advised to do before your child’s first day at school; but the truth is that nothing prepared her for school as much as those weeks of simply living next door to it. The experience normalised what was going to be a huge change in her life: it showed her, better than any words from me could, that school was where children went when they were old enough. Watching those happy-looking kids skipping past our door, hearing them calling to their friends and generally picking up a sense that school was fun and exciting, was the best possible way of introducing her to her new life.

In time my three younger daughters followed their big sister to that same school, and they – like Rosie – all took it in their stride. They, of course, were

well-used to the primary by then: unlike Rosie, they would be there every morning and every afternoon, dropping off or collecting a big sister or sisters.

They would pick up on the excitement and happiness of school by osmosis, seeing their sisters and their friends as they bounced up alongside their buggy – and they’d be drinking it all in.

This, it seems to me, is the number one best way to get your child ready for primary school: as much as you can, show rather than tell. Try to be around the school sometimes as the children arrive or as they’re leaving for home; if you have friends with children already there, ask to go along with them sometimes for the drop-off or the pick-up. Give your child every opportunity you can to imbibe the sense that school is an exciting and interesting place to be.

Every child, and every parent, gets a bit nervous before their child starts at a new school. Even after 17 years of being a parent with children in school, I’m feeling a bit worried about my youngest daughter’s move to secondary school in September. The fact that I’ve done school starts many, many times before doesn’t alter the fact that this is a first for Catriona, and because it’s a first for Catriona it’s a first for me too. But what I now know is how important it is for me to be confident, and to be positive, about the move. Of course I have mixed feelings: of course I’m a bit

worried about how she’ll cope in new surroundings, about whether she’ll find it easy to make new friends, about whether she’ll like the school food and about whether she’ll settle down to the work. And when she wants to talk about those fears – because, of course, she has them too and it’s important not to deny our children’s feelings – I do. But I always remember to talk to her as well about how exciting this new start is going to be: because every beginning is a bit scary and involves risks - but our lives move on and grow and become whole because we embrace them and we’re brave about them.

Children worry when we worry, and they’re confident when we’re confident.

So if you’ve got a child starting school this autumn, the number one thing to do is find the confidence in yourself: empathise with your child, but empathise with the fact that her world is opening up and becoming more exciting as well as with the fact that there will be wobbles. Try not to worry too much about the problems: believe in your own, and believe in your child’s, ability to deal with these as they come along. Don’t even, for a minute, bother about things like maths and English and reading: no, honestly, I mean it. Those things are for further down the line: all you have to think about, this September, is delivering a child to school with a song in his or her heart. Do that, and everything else will be easy.

Morning Mayhem? Tips to make missed breakfasts a thing of the past

In the dash to get out of the door on a school day, mornings can mean mayhem for families.

Worryingly though, the British Nutrition Foundation (BNF) reported that this means: ‘’an alarming number of children don’t eat breakfast each morning”, with some 8% of primary children not eating the most important meal of the day. This figure increased to nearly a quarter (24%) of 11-to-14-year-olds and

almost a third (32%) of 14-to-16-year-olds.

Family run dairy Creamline has launched a new online delivery service www.creamline.co.uk to help Manchester families banish breakfast stress. You can order store cupboard essentials – from milk, yoghurt and eggs, to juices, bread and jam and many other morning must-haves – by 9pm in the evening for delivery the next morning.

Rob Purvis, joint MD at Creamline and father of four, shares his tips on finding time to give your child a healthy breakfast to kick-start the day: • If you can, lay out what you’ll need for the next day the evening before.

Whether that’s school clothes or laying the breakfast table complete with variety

16 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

packs of cereal, it can save precious minutes in the morning rush.

• Kids can change their mind a hundred times about what they want for breakfast!

Reducing the number of options on offer can make decision making much easier and speedier. An either/or choice works well.

• If you really haven’t got time for a sit-down breakfast, then milk-based drinks are packed with calcium and healthy fats. Top up with a handful of dried fruit for kids to nibble in the car.

• For children who are old enough to do it safely, turn getting their own breakfast ready into a treat and praise them for being such a big boy/girl.

• Topping up your weekly shop with an

online order of convenience essentials will stop that sinking feeling when you open the fridge only to find it devoid of milk!

• Turn getting dressed for school into a race – a healthy dose of sibling rivalry will get your little ones competing to be the quickest, freeing up more time for brekkie.

Another startling figure to emerge from the BNF’s research was that almost a third of UK primary pupils think cheese is made from plants! Have a look at Creamline’s new video which shows the journey from cows grazing in a field through to bottling! https://plus.google.com/ 117125658269692214639/videos

Back to school

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 17

Header Back to school Which secondary is right for my child?

Joanna Moorhead on the 20 things you need to know when choosing ‘big school’

© Jacek Chabraszewski - Fotolia.com

1. Make your own mind up. It’s amazing how many parents never even look round a school because of what they’ve heard.

A school that doesn’t suit another family could be just right for yours.

2. Listen to your child’s feelings as well as your own. Choosing his or her primary was down to just you and your partner; but your 10 or 11-year-old deserves a say.

3. Use open days wisely. If you can, go to a daytime visit (especially to a school that seems a strong contender) because you’ll see it in working mode.

4. Nothing advertises a school like its pupils.

Do they seem happy? Are they polite?

If you have time, hang around in the area at home time. Are they well-behaved?

5. How about the staff – do they seem happy and fulfilled working there?

Take opportunities to chat to them.

6. Listen to your instincts. If a school doesn’t feel right, move on. You don’t have to explain yourself or your reasons for doing so to anyone else (although you do, of course, need to discuss it

with your child if your instincts are different).

7. Don’t get bogged down in the detail: what you’re aiming to get is a sense of the school. Does it feel happy, productive, calm? Is there a sense of order and caring? These things matter more than the nitty-gritty.

8. Think about your child’s talents and interests and ponder carefully whether they’ll be catered for. But think too about what the school offers that might be harder to pick up at home. We’re a family of journalists, where literacy is easier for us as parents; so I’m glad my girls went to a school that specialised in maths and science, even though these weren’t their strongest subjects.

9. Pay attention to what’s on the walls – and not just the artwork. What are children being warned about, or encouraged to do?

Are there any school visits being advertised?

What clubs seem to be thriving?

10. Look at the school’s league tables, but don’t pin everything on them. Read the Ofsted report too and pay particular

Explore Learning’s proven results

An independent study into the effects of Explore Learning membership has recently been published by The University of Reading. The study tested 1,539 Explore members compared to a control group of children who did not attend Explore, and found that: • “Explore Learning members’ improvement in maths was 30% higher

than that of the comparison group.”

• “Building confidence, overcoming shyness to put up their hand to ask for help, being more independent and less reluctant to try without assistance were all elements that parents recognised in their children and directly attributed to Explore Learning.”

To read the full report, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk/efficacy.

18 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

attention to how the school has done over time. If it’s had a dip, are there signs of improvement or suggestions that it could turn round?

11. Where do pupils go on to from this school? You want to see at least some youngsters doing well academically and aiming for good courses at top universities.

12. Go to the head teacher’s talk and take your notebook. This is an important part of the event: not only do you need to pick up on the head’s attitude and values and what matters most to him or her, but you also need to pay special attention to anything that’s said about the entrance criteria. Understanding that is the crucial next stage.

13. If you like a school, do your homework about whether your child fits its entrance requirements. However much you love the school, and however much you think your child would thrive there, you’ll only get a place if you fulfil the criteria. Read the school’s entrance policy through very, very carefully. If you don’t fulfil the requirements, could you change something so you do? If not, move on: there’s no point in wasting a choice or railing against something you can’t change.

14. You’re bound to talk to other parents, and you want to talk to other parents, but don’t get pulled along by their tide.

Do your own research and develop your own views: knowledge is power.

15. Keep telling yourself (because it’s true!) that there is no perfect school.

Every school has strengths and

weaknesses. There’s more than one school that can be right for your child.

16. When the time comes to fill in the forms, allow yourself lots of time and do it extremely carefully. There may be supplementary forms, and there may be complicated arrangements for giving them in (especially if you’re applying to faith schools). If you find it all too confusing, talk to your child’s primary teacher or primary head, or call the education department at your local authority.

17. Have a plan of action for what you’ll do if you don’t get the school you’re hoping for. Just having that plan will make you feel more relaxed.

18. Remember that there’s a lot of movement in the first few weeks after places are allocated, and many children get in from waiting lists.

19. Don’t underestimate how much hard work an appeal can be, or how emotionally draining. That’s not to say don’t do it: just be prepared.

20. Remember that, at the end of the day, parents make more difference to a child’s future than a school does.

Even if your child doesn’t get into your first choice of school (and one in seven didn’t last year) your attitude to that could be a much bigger factor in what happens next for your child than the school itself. Have confidence, first and foremost, in your child. And believe that, together, you will work things out if and when you come up against problems.

Walk to School Month

Beat the traffic and get yourself and your kids out in the fresh air during International Walk to School Month this October.

Each year, primary school children from across the UK join forces with over 40 countries worldwide to celebrate the benefits of walking to school and this October is no different, with the month-long activity encouraging pupils to walk to school at least once a week.

Many parents know that walking is actually quicker and less stressful than taking the car and they value the opportunity to spend quality time with their children. It also increases air quality with fewer cars on the streets and strengthens communities, where children and parents are seen in the streets! Stop moaning about the traffic start clearing it! www.livingstreets.org.uk

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Back to school Manchester High School for Girls (MHSG) – today’s students, tomorrow’s successful women

Manchester High School for Girls is a leading independent school, providing the very best in education for girls aged 4 to 18 years.

The School’s academic record is outstanding. In 2013, 94% of all A Level examination results were in the A* to B range, with a 100% pass rate. A superb

85% of all GCSE results in this year’s examinations were recorded at the highest grades of A* or A. MHSG’s second cohort of International Baccalaureate Diploma students celebrated an average points score of 38, which towers above the global average of 29.8 points. One student reached a phenomenal point score of 43, which places her in the top 1% of IB students worldwide.

MHSG offers students a vibrant atmosphere with a strong sense of community. In such a supportive environment, each girl feels happy, cared for and valued as an individual.

Artistic and sporting talents are nurtured and the girls enjoy a diverse range of extra-curricular activities, complemented by superb modern facilities.

Students leave MHSG as well-educated young women with highly-developed interpersonal skills and a broad range of interests. Their girls are confident in their own worth, prepared for an independent life and capable of making a positive contribution to society. It is from this cornerstone that they go on to pursue varied and fulfilling careers.

Visit www.manchesterhigh.co.uk or call 0161 224 0447.

Local Nursery group shorlisted for prestigious awards

The outstanding local Elmscot Group of Day Nurseries and School’s Out out-of-school Clubs, with 10 childcare settings in the Altrincham, Hale, Bowdon and

Timperley areas, has just been shortlisted in four categories in the national Nursery World Awards 2013 (www.nurseryworldawards.com).

20 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

1. Best Nursery Chain UK: Elmscot Group 2. Working with Parents: Woodlands Day 3. Nursery Newcomer of the Year: Jess Berry, Nursery Practitioner at Elmscot Day Nursery 4. Practitioner of the Year: Lucy Yarnell, School’s Out Club Leader The winners are due to be presented with their awards on 28 September at a special ceremony at London’s Grand Connaught Rooms.

Last year, Hale Day Nursery won the Nursery Management Today Award for Best Outdoor Learning Environment and also recently achieved Trafford’s ‘Healthy Setting Award’. Their menus are renowned and they have often been called upon to advise and support other childcare providers. www.elmscot.co.uk

Parental prep for entrance exam season

Children may have to take the exams but it also requires a battery of skills and knowledge from parents to make sure their children reach exam season possessing a quiet confidence and self-belief, secure in their English and maths knowledge and well-practiced in exam techniques.

Start early is the mantra you’ll hear from parents who’ve been through the experience.

Whether you use a tutor or do-it-yourself, a steady structured programme prepares a child, not just for exams, but for the big changes they face when they start ‘big’ school in year 7.

Don’t lose sight of your child in all of this.

Focus on what they are doing right. Confidence drives self-belief which encourages learning and also establishes an outlook that will serve them well throughout life.

Fleet Tutors, a national tutoring service provider, has over three decades of experience helping students achieve their potential. For more information, go to www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

Back to Header school Is your child ready to learn every day?

Some deceptively obvious advice for parents The National Association of Headteachers (NAHT) and the charity Family Action* have launched a joint Ready to Learn Every Day campaign aimed at helping parents to support their children’s learning. Families magazine talked to NAHT President, Bernadette Hunter, about the campaign and why their advice is relevant to all parents.

Research shows that children are best placed to succeed in school when parents are actively involved in their education.

But that is not all about helping out when they get stuck with homework. In fact, preparing children to be ready for learning can be far more basic – like making sure they know how to take turns and to listen; that they go to bed on time; have breakfast before going to school, and turn up on time, having remembered their pencil case, PE kit and homework.

The first NAHT and Family Action Ready to Learn Every Day guide covers these sorts of issues: bedtimes, family routines, organisation, behaviour, communicating with your child and spending time with them.

Common sense – yes. Obvious ….?

Well, yes, but deceptively so. You don’t

have to dig very deep to realise that the advice is relevant for all parents.

Modern life is certainly hectic. With many of us working long hours, and constantly pressed for time, even those with the very best of intentions can forget the basics.

An HR manager shame-facedly admitted to me that, when her child started school, the teacher called her aside and told her her daughter was falling asleep in class because she was so tired.

Bernadette is not surprised. “Not all parents realise how much sleep their child actually needs (under 5s need 15 hours and older primary school children should have 10 hours.). And not all parents realise that if you allow your child to watch TV or play on the computer before going to bed, they will have trouble going to sleep, ” she says.

Bernadette stresses the importance of talking and listening to children and spending time with them. Again, self-evident – but think about it for a moment!

How many of us harried parents will recognise situations in which we have been checking e-mails or texts as our child was

speaking to us? I’d hazard a guess most of us have been there. And many of us (however good we are as parents) would probably admit to having allowed a child watch TV rather than play with them because we were simply too tired? But as Bernadette explains, there is more active learning in traditional games than in passive viewing.

“Sometimes parents find it difficult to find the time to sit down and play with their children – it is easier to put something on the TV than to play the traditional type of games. But when you play a traditional board game, as well as being fun, children are learning to co-operate when they play, to take turns and to understand rules. They are picking up lots of key skills – speaking, listening and concentrating.”

Ironically, while we are living in an age of 24/7 communication - instant messaging, Skyping and TV on demand - these very same tools are taking their toll on communication at home. Family meal times, where children learned to talk and to listen, are waning, and traditional board games are giving way to solo computer games and screen time.

With busy lifestyles and a culture of TV dinners, Bernadette fears we risk losing these communication skills which were passed down from generation to generation.

“What we are seeing now are some young parents who have never experienced eating

together as a family,” she says.

Bernadette readily says some of the advice – like bedtimes - might seem obvious, but she adds: “We know from talking to parents that they can really welcome this advice. The Ready to Learn Every Day series of leaflets are about giving parents the confidence to set the boundaries for their children.”

The Ready to Learn Every Day guide can be downloaded from www.family-action.org.uk/naht This leaflet will be followed this Autumn by a guide for parents to develop children’s speaking and listening skills. Later in the year there will be a parents’ guide to helping with schoolwork; and a final parents’ guide in the Summer Term about helping children with transitions – from one class to another, and moving on to secondary school. *Family Action is a charity that supports and strengthens vulnerable and disadvantaged families throughout England. The charity knows from experience how vital it is that all parents get the support and advice they need to ensure that the home environment really supports learning and that their children are ready to do their best in school each and every day. And teachers see the results when the children are in school.

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Back to school Header What is the real meaning of “Quality Time”?

By Tana Blum, Teacher, St James Junior School

We all know that the pressures of modern life make it more difficult to spend individual time with our children; even as recently as 30 years ago the phrase “quality time” was never heard because it was natural and easy to find the time needed to give our children our attention. We worked fewer hours and had a wider family unit to call upon.

Go back a bit further – say 50 years ago – and many dads actually came home for their lunch. Imagine that!

Our children, however, haven’t stopped needing our attention. It may seem that they’re coping fine and that they’re more interested in their Xbox, iPod or their friends than they are in their parents, but never underestimate the value of one-to-one time with your child.

The good news is that it’s not the quantity of time spent with your child, it’s the quality. It doesn’t have to be days or hours. 10 minutes a day, being fully present with each child, perhaps just before bedtime, is invaluable.

What does “quality time” or “being present with your child” actually mean?

• Stop what you’re doing, put everything down.

• It doesn’t matter what the activity is that you do with your child, but it probably is helpful if it’s fairly restful like reading, playing a game or just talking.

• Be there in the moment, really listening, fully attending. To do this you need to turn off the phone and ask the other members of the family not to disturb you. They can do that for 10 minutes.

Having one ear on your child whilst cooking or doing other jobs will not work.

Tell your children that this is your special individual time with them so that they look forward to it – and believe me, they will!

In what way does this focussed attention benefit your child? Quite simply, it will make your child know that he’s loved. A child who feels loved will behave better, squabble less with his siblings, have more confidence and become more independent.

Another important but often overlooked point is that in giving your full attention like this in such a focussed way actually teaches your child the value of giving attention for its own sake. Children, of course, learn by example so, whether we realise it or not, we’re teaching them a valuable lesson about stopping our mad-cap activity for a while and enjoying something restful.

Try 10 minutes a day for 10 days and see what effect it has, and how enjoyable it is for both of you.

22 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Outstanding A Level results for Withington Girls’ School

Withington Girls’ School is celebrating an outstanding pass rate in this year’s A Level results.

From a cohort of 75 sixth formers 94% achieved A*, A and B grades with 80.4% achieving A* or As and 37.6% securing A*s. The overall pass rate was 100%. This exceptional set of results bucks the national trend with exam boards reporting a slight decrease in top grades for the second year running. Nationally the figure was 26.3% achieving A* or As with 7.6% gaining the elite A* grade. Some 47 Withington girls clinched A* or A grades in all of their subjects, including a significant proportion in Sciences and Mathematics, traditionally viewed as being more popular amongst boys than girls. One student achieved a clean sweep of 5A*s, 4 girls scored A*s in 4 subjects with another 8 securing 3 A*s.

Said Withington Girls’ School Headmistress Mrs Sue Marks: “We are delighted for all our girls who have worked very hard indeed with their talented teachers to achieve these exceptional results. I am really pleased that our girls continue to do so well in the rigorous academic subjects we offer at Advanced Level. Success like this helps Withington students to win places at the most selective universities in the country.”

Withington Girls’ School owes its ethos of academic excellence to the vision of its nineteenth century Founders who

wanted the same educational opportunities available for their daughters as was already available to their sons. In keeping with their wishes, the School has remained relatively small. With around 550 girls in the Senior School, Withington is large enough to offer a wide range of subject choices and activities. At the same time, it is small enough that every girl can be individually known and supported by a strong pastoral team.

Pupils are academically able girls drawn from all backgrounds, cultures, faiths and traditions; bursaries are available (according to need) to support one-in-six of their Senior School pupils.

Through expert teaching and a varied extra-curricular programme, girls are prepared successfully for higher education, the world of work and adult life in general.

Withington Girls’ School Sixth Form Open Evening Tuesday 15th October, 6.00 - 8.00pm This is a detailed information evening about subject options and life in the Withington Sixth Form.

Withington Girls’ School Open Days Thursday 7th November 4.30 - 6.30pm.

Saturday 9th November 10.00am - 12.00 noon Prospective Junior, Senior and Sixth Form pupils and parents are warmly invited to have a look around the School.

A Withington pupil will give you a tour of the School and be able to answer most questions. Teaching staff will also be on hand for a chat.

Tours can be arranged throughout the year via Mrs Angela Adshead, PA to the Headmistress.

Withington Girls’ School (ages 7-18) 0161 224 1077 / www.withington.manchester.sch.uk

Back to school Etherow Country Park Fun Day

Established in 1968 as one of Britain’s first country parks, over a quarter of a million people now visit Etherow Country Park in Compstall, Stockport each year.

Go along to the fun day on Saturday 28 September (12 – 4pm), to enjoy loads of craft activities, face painting, balloon modelling, along with a DJ and local produce stalls.

Pure Innovations, who manage the visitors centre and adjacent café,

is a charity supporting people with disabilities through various projects where they gain new skills and independence.

The visitors centre also has daily activities for children such as pond dipping, paint your own birdhouse, suncatchers, make your own bird feeder, design your own bag etc., all at very reasonable prices. Just call in to the visitors centre and enquire about the daily activities or ring 0161 427 6937.

NCT Nearly New Sales Stockport Sat 16 Nov, 10.30 – 12pm, Cheadle Hulme Methodist Church, Ramilies Avenue, Cheadle Hulme, SK8 7AL. 0844 243 6282 / stockportnearlynewsale@gmail.com

North Cheshire Sun 20 Oct, 12 – 2pm, Thelwall Parish Hall, Thelwall New Road, Warrington, WA4 2SX 0844 243 6221 / northcheshirenct@yahoo.co.uk

Manchester Trafford Sat 19 Oct, 10.30am – 12.30pm, Partington Sports Village, Chapel Lane, Partington, M31 3ES Trafford.nns@gmail.com

Bury & Rossendale Sat 14 Sept & Sat 9 Nov, 11am – 12.30pm, Bolton Road Methodist Church, Bolton Road, Bury, BL8 2NZ burynctnns@yahoo.co.uk

The Wellbeing Farm Harvest Festival

As part of British Food Fortnight 2013, The Wellbeing Farm in Edgworth, Bolton is organising a number of celebrations including a Harvest Festival event over the weekend of Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 September.

Events will include talks and demonstrations on the harvest and farming with activities for all the family

including a bouncy castle, cookery demonstrations showcasing the best of British produce and a barn dance and BBQ on Saturday night (28 September).

Entrance for the event is £2 payable on the door, but tickets for the Barn Dance and BBQ are £10 and need to be booked in advance. For further details please see www.thewellbeingfarm.co.uk.

ARE YOU FEELING LUCKY? The Imperial War Museum (North), plays host to a Family Art Fest from Saturday 26 October – Thursday 31 October as part of The Big Draw.

Explore their collections of art themed activities and spot the silent masked artist character as he sketches his way around the museum. Bring your own drawing materials or join one of their creative sessions to have a go. Entry to the museum is free, although donations are very welcome!

We’ve got a T-shirt graffiti kit and a Family pass for the AirShard Viewing Platform to give away to a lucky Families reader. To be in with a chance of winning, just go to www.familiesmanchester.co.uk and enter now.

Entries close Thursday 31 October.

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 23

What’s on Header

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

Sat 7 Sept

Thurs 12 Sept

Sat 7, 14, 21, 28 Sept

Fri 13 – Sun 15 Sept

MOSI, Manchester Saturday Science - Animate The chance to meet scientists and engineers working at the cutting-edge of research. Demonstrations, fun hands-on activities and informal discussion.

0161 832 2244 / www.mosi.org.uk

IWM North Peace in the Playground 10.30am, Free This special storytelling session follows the tale of a group of shapes who discover how much better things can be when we all get along.

Oskar’s Journey Across the Berlin Wall 2.30pm, Free Meet charming cat puppet character Oskar and discover his tale of adventure on a journey across a divided city as he seeks out a friend on the other side of the Berlin Wall. The session uses puppets and object handling including the chance to see a real piece of the Berlin Wall.

0161 836 4000/ www.iwm.org.uk

ARE YOU FEELING LUCKY? Here’s your chance to win a Family Ticket to see Disney On Ice presents Dare To Dream!

This fantastic show combines the contemporary stories of two modern day princesses, Rapunzel and Tiana, with the classic elegance of Cinderella and Snow White in a celebration of royal proportions. This year marks the 20th anniversary since Disney On Ice first performed in Manchester, and the ice spectacular will play the Manchester Arena from 16 – 20 October 2013 for nine performances.

Join your favourite Disney Princesses in a celebration of 75 years of Disney Princess stories, including two-modern day princesses, Rapunzel and Tiana; the always elegant Cinderella; and the princess who started it all, Snow White.

Laugh at Disney’s hilarious hair-raising escapade, Tangled, as Rapunzel; her unlikely companion, Flynn; and Maximus, the Captain of the Guard’s determined horse; embark on an uproarious journey that takes adventure to new lengths! Travel to the enchanted forest with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs as Snow White escapes from the Evil Queen in her search for her one true love. Watch as fanciful dreams become reality as Cinderella meets her Prince Charming, with a glass slipper fit for an unforgettable fantasy come true. And boogie to the beat of the bayou in a magical, musical journey that celebrates the story of The Princess and the Frog with Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen. All your favourite princesses take to the ice in a spectacular finale at the ultimate Disney Princess event of a lifetime! Experience the beauty, sparkle, and spirit as Disney On Ice presents Dare to Dream comes to Manchester!

We’ve teamed up with Disney On Ice to offer one lucky person the chance to win a Family Ticket (admitting 4 people), to see the show at the Manchester Arena on Thursday 17 October. To be in with a chance of winning, just go to the website www.familiesmanchester.co.uk and answer a simple question.

Entries close Monday 30 September.

Disney On Ice presents Dare To Dream is at the Manchester Arena 16 – 20th October 2013 Tickets are priced between £13.00 and £36.00 For further ticket information, telephone 0844 847 8000 or visit www.mcr-arena.com or www.disneyonice.co.uk

24 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Sun 8,15,22,29 Sept

IWM North Hotspots 2.30pm, Free Marking International Day of Peace on 21 September, go along to the drop-in activity to make your own dove of peace using the ancient art of origami.

0161 836 4000/ www.iwm.org.uk

Sun 8 Sept

Honford Hall, Handforth SK9 3HN Handforth Craft Fair 11am – 2pm Great family day out with loads of stalls and children’s activities. www.facebook.com/handforthcraftfair

Tatton Park, Knutsford Bat Bonanza 6.45 – 8pm, £8, Age 8+. A night walk around with a ranger to see and hear the furry fliers as they hut for their evening meal.

01625 374428 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Ramsbottom Cricket Club Ramsbottom Festival Family friendly fun from poetry, music and theatre to games, drawing workshops and stone balancing. All of the activities are suitable for a wide age range. Special discount ticket prices for children and family groups (under 6s are free).

0161 761 7107 / www.ramsbottomfestival.com

Sat 14 Sept

Tatton Park, Knutsford Kiddy Cook 10am – 12pm, £22 Aspiring young chefs pick seasonal fruit and veg in Tatton’s walled garden with a servant from the past and then cook in the Victorian mansion to create a culinary delight to take home. Booking essential.

07976 619648 / www.kiddycook.co.uk Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Family Day 10am – 3pm, Free entry and activities (some may be chargeable). A chance for you and your little ones to join in with various activities including arts and craft workshops, drama and music taster sessions. Today’s highlights are Nobody Rides The Unicorn, a magical show for aged 4+, which combines superbly crafted puppets and original live music.

Plus, there will be performances by improvised comedy troupe and Waterside regulars ComedySportz. Also face-painting, balloon modelling and clowns and also an opportunity to go behind the scenes for sound and lighting demos.

0161 912 5616 / www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Sat 14 & Sun 15 Sept

Tegg’s Nose Country Park, Macclesfield Hike the Hill From 7.30am, Adults £12, Child (age 6 – 15) £5, Family £30. A sponsored walk in aid of East Cheshire Hospice. 3 circular route options to appeal to all. Dogs welcome, free refreshments half way. Hog roast and ice creams after completing the challenge. Please also pledge to raise £60 in sponsorship. 01625 433477 / www.eastcheshirehospice.org.uk/ hikethehill2013

MOSI, Manchester MOSI 30 A party weekend celebrating MOSI’s 30th anniversary. A trail picking out stories and objects from last 30 years, cakes, prizes and a quiz. The steam engine Planet will be running visitor rides.

Demonstrations and workshops for everyone to get involved.

0161 832 2244 / www.mosi.org.uk Bolton Steam Museum Working Steam Day 10am – 4pm. Free car parking on site and admission to to the museum, although donations towards the cost of running the boiler would be appreciated.

01204 846490 / www.nmes.org

Remember to check online regularly for more listings – as not all event information is available at the time of going to print. www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Sun 15 Sept

Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Heritage Open Day 11am – 5pm, Free entry A once a year opportunity to discover hidden treasures and participate in activities which bring to life local history and culture. Explore parts of Sale Town Hall usually closed to the public and see what goes on at the Arts Centre, both in the spotlight as well as behind the scenes!

Enjoy live music from the likes of Flixton Brass Band, indulge in a delicious vintage afternoon tea, take in some amazing 1940s-style swing and jive dancing and watch the Battle of Britain parade.

0161 912 5616 / www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Tues 17 Sept

Manchester Museum Baby Explorers 10.30 – 11.15am, 11.30am – 12.15pm & 1 – 1.45pm, Free Sensory play and interactive story sessions for babies who aren’t walking yet.

Booking essential (a week before).

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

Wed 18 – Sun 22 Sept

Tatton Park, Knutsford Moscow State Circus Set in the mystical centre of Moscow’s cultural & artistic quarter, Park Gorkogo (Gorky Park) is the perfect back drop for undoubtedly the greatest circus artistes on earth.

0844 856 5555 / www.ticketmaster. co.uk / www.moscowstatecircus.com

Sat 21 Sept

Manchester Museum Big Saturday: World Music 11am – 4pm, Free, Drop in, All ages.

Performances, workshops and events for the whole family celebrating Manchester’s diverse music scene!

0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum Octagon Theatre, Bolton (Studio) The Little Mermaid 11am & 1.30pm, Age 3+, £4 per child - one free adult ticket per child ticket.

Additional adult tickets can be purchased at £4 each. An underworld playground of fishes, flippers and fun!

01204 520661/ www.octagonbolton.co.uk

Sat 21 & Sun 22 Sept

Tatton Park, Knutsford Harvest Festival at the Farm 12pm – 5pm, Adults £6, Child (4 – 15) £4, Normal park entry applies. See the steam engine running, have-a-go at scarecrow making, spinning, making your own corn doll and duck racing. Woodturning and clog-making demos. Harvest Blessing 2pm with the resident brass band.

01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sun 6 Oct

Arley Hall & Gardens, Northwich Cheshire Food Festival 10.30am – 5pm, £6 (advance booking), Under 12s free Cake-Off tasters, Men vs Food challenges, Top chef demonstrations, live music – a foodie fun day out for the whole family.

Well behaved dogs on leads welcome (not allowed inside marquees). www.greatbritishfoodfestival.com/ cheshire.asp

Tues 24 Sept

People’s History Museum, Manchester Under the Rainbow 11am – 12pm, £1 per child, Under 5s Fun interactive story session with puppets, song, dance and a craft activity.

Booking advised.

0161 838 9190 / www.phm.org.uk

Fri 26 Sept – Mon 7 Oct

Manchester Manchester Food & Drink Festival An urban food and drink festival that takes over as much of the City Centre and surrounding districts of Greater Manchester as possible, with a huge programme of events taking place, both indoor and outdoor. www.foodanddrinkfestival.com

Fri 27 Sept

Manchester Museum Magic Carpet 10.30 – 11.30am, 11.30am – 12.30pm Storytelling and activity session for under 5s and their families/carers. Booking essential (a week before).

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

Sat 28 Sept

Etherow Country Park, Compstall, Stockport Fun Day 12 – 4pm. Loads of craft activities, face painting, balloon modelling, along with a DJ and local produce stalls.

0161 427 6937

Sat 28 & Sun 29 Sept

The Wellbeing Farm, Bolton Harvest Festival Talks and demonstrations on the harvest and farming with activities for all the family. £2 entrance payable on the door.

(Barndance and BBQ tickets cost £10 and need to be booked in advance) www.thewellbeingfarm.co.uk Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Autumn Fair 11am – 4pm, Free (normal admission applies) A weekend of activities for all the family, including the chance to celebrate autumn with local food and crafts.

01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ quarry-bank-mill

What’s on Tatton Park, Knutsford National Apple Day Normal opening times and park entry applies.

A scrumptious Sunday at the Farm and in the Gardens to celebrate the wonderful apple. Join in games and children’s activities. Apple goods on sale in the shops and restaurant.

01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Throughout October

Manchester Manchester Literature Festival A number of events in different venues across the city aimed to inspire a new generation of book lovers. www.manchesterliteraturefestival.co.uk

Tues 1 & 15 Oct

Manchester Museum Baby Explorers 10.30 – 11.15am, 11.30am – 12.15pm & 1 – 1.45pm, Free Sensory play and interactive story sessions for babies who aren’t walking yet.

Booking essential (a week before).

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

Sat 5 Oct

MOSI, Manchester Saturday Science - Think, Build, Create The chance to meet scientists and engineers working at the cutting-edge of research. Demonstrations, fun hands-on activities and informal discussion.

0161 832 2244 / www.mosi.org.uk

Sat 5 & Sun 6 Oct

Tatton Park, Knutsford The Crafts & Gift Fair 10.30am – 5pm, Normal park entry applies.

A wide range of exhibitors including traditional crafts plus gifts, retailers and food producers.

01530 834056 / www.countrywide-events.co.uk Manchester Museum Grandparents Weekend Activities 11am – 4pm, Free, Drop in Saturday: Be amazed and inspired by the magnificent variety of animals, insects and fossils on display throughout the Museum.

Create junk model creatures.

Sunday: Enjoy drawing den drop-in activities in the museum’s Discovery Centre.

0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum East Lancashire Railway, Bury Day out with Thomas™ 9am – 3.45pm, Grand opening ceremony by the Fat Controller at 9.45am. Adult £16, Child (3+) £8, Family (2 adults, 3 children) £40 Ticket includes face painting, balloon modelling, circus workshop, a ride on the little blue engine himself and more.

0161 764 7790 / www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Tatton Park, Knutsford Kiddy Cook – National Apple Day 10am – 12pm, £22. To celebrate National Apple Day, Aspiring young chefs pick apples, seasonal fruit and veg in Tatton’s walled garden with a servant from the past and then cook in the Victorian mansion to create a culinary delight to take home.

Booking essential.

07976 619648 / www.kiddycook.co.uk Honford Hall, Handforth SK9 3HN Handforth Craft Fair 11am – 2pm Great family day out with loads of stalls and children’s activities. www.facebook.com/handforthcraftfair Kingsway School (lower site), Cheadle SK8 1NP and Saddleworth School, Uppermill OL3 6BU Kids Car Boot & Swap Shop 10am – 12pm www.kidscarbootandswapshop.co.uk Rochdale Fire Service Museum Open Day 10am – 4pm, Free Working exhibits, visiting appliances (old and new) demonstrations, film shows and children’s activities.

01706 901227 / www.manchesterfire.gov.uk

Fri 11 Oct

Bury Town Centre Bury Night Light 6pm – late. See the town centre in a whole new light – beautiful lights and a mix of entertainment for all ages. www.bury.gov.uk/burylightnight

Sun 13 Oct

Manchester Museum Little Red Hen 2 – 3pm, £4, Age 2 – 5 The Puppetellers present the much loved classic tale of The Little Red Hen – an intimate interactive storytelling piece with puppetry, song and live music. Join in with the story and lend a hand in making a most delicious loaf of bread!. Part of the Manchester Literature Festival. Booking essential.

0843 208 0500 / www.manchesterliteraturefestival.co.uk

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 25

What’s on Header Tues 15, Wed 16 & Tues 22 Oct

Tatton Park, Knutsford Autumn Deer Walk 4 – 6pm, £8, Age 8+ Triggered by shortening daylight hours and cooler weather, the rut marks the time of year when male deer compete to mate with females resulting in much posturing, bellowing and wallowing. Booking essential.

01625 374428 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Fri 18 Oct – Sun 3 Nov

Across Greater Manchester/Cheshire Family Arts Festival Eye-boggling arts for all the family at various venues across the region. www.familyartsfestival.com Z-arts, Hulme, Manchester Big Imaginations Children’s Theatre Festival A delightfully diverse range of productions created specifically for children. www.z-arts.org/big-imaginations

Sat 19 Oct

Tatton Park, Knutsford Willow Weaving: 3D Witches and Fairies 10am - 4pm, £60 Join Sarah Gallagher Hayes, willow sculptor and artist and receive expert tuition to create your own beautiful willow sculptures. Suitable for adults and children.

07889 507348 / twigtwisters@aol. com / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sat 19 – Sun 27 Oct

Tatton Park, Knutsford Solve the Mansion Mystery Week!

Normal opening times and park entry applies.

Don your deerstalker, pick up your magnifying glass and solve the case of the missing Mansion treasure. Follow a trail of clues, sharpening your detective skills as you go, but be wary of dead ends! Steel yourself for some surprises along the way.

A fun, family quiz throughout the week.

01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sat 19 Oct – Sun 3 Nov

Tatton Park, Knutsford Ghosts in the Garden Normal opening times and park entry applies. Go ghost hunting in the gardens this half term but be prepared to be (slightly) scared as you track them down.

Spooky story telling in the eerie Tower Garden at weekends.

01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

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

Mon 21 – Fri 25 Oct

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Autumn Spooktacular at the Mill 12 – 4pm, Free (normal admission applies) Make yourself a beastly badge at this free craft activity and follow the Halloween trail through the Mill. 50p per trail.

01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ quarry-bank-mill Jodrell Bank, Macclesfield October Half Term - COMETS! 11.30, 12.30, 2.30 & 3.30pm, Booking essential. Come and find out what a comet is, where they come from and watch us make our own in our interactive show!

01477 571 766 / www.jodrellbank.net/families

Mon 21, Wed 23 & Fri 25 Sept

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Family Funghi Walks 10am – 4pm, Adult £10, Child £5, 50p booking fee and normal admission applies Have some fun-gi in Styal woods and learn lots about what to look for. Followed by mushroom soup and a traybake.

01625 445 845 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ quarry-bank-mill

Wed 23 & Wed 30 Oct

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Wild Wednesday Workshop 12 – 4pm, Free (normal admission applies) Meet a creepy creature and have a go at some ‘spooky science’!

01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust. org.uk/quarry-bank-mill

Thurs 24 Oct – Sun 3 Nov

Various Locations Manchester Science Festival 10am – 4pm, Free (some special events will be ticketed and priced) Part laboratory, part playground. Get involved and see the wonders of science – sponsored and organised through the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI). www.manchestersciencefestival.com

Thurs 24 – Thurs 31 Oct

Tatton Park, Knutsford Halloween Hauntings at the Old Hall 12 – 5pm, Adult £6, Child £4.50, Family £17, Normal park entry applies. Halloween Hauntings at the Old Hall. Visit the Horrendously Haunted Old Hall. Solve the Horrible History Mystery and Quiz. Story telling, Face Painting and Mask Making (small charge).

01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

26 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Fri 25 Oct

Manchester Museum Magic Carpet 10.30 – 11.30am, 11.30am – 12.30pm Storytelling and activity session for under 5s and their families/carers. Booking essential (a week before).

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

Sat 26 Oct

Manchester Museum Big Saturday: World of Frogs 11am – 4pm, Free, Drop in, All ages Hop along to Manchester Museum for a mind and eye boggling day of Family Arts Festival fun, celebrating the re-opening of the Museum’s Vivarium (Live Animals) gallery. Part of the Manchester Science Festival and the Family Arts Festival.

0161 275 2648 / www.manchester.ac.uk/museum Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Spooky Tours 9.30 – 9.30pm (tour every 15 mins), £7, Booking Essential, Age 12+ Join us if you dare for a ghostly and haunting trip through the Mill.

01625 445 845 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ quarry-bank-mill

Sat 26 & Sun 27 Oct

Tatton Park, Knutsford Christmas Shopping Fair 10.30am – 5pm, Normal park entry applies.

An early chance to look for those special Christmas gifts for all the family and ideas for presents not usually found in High Street shops.

01530 834056 / www.countrywide-events.co.uk

Sat 26 – Thurs 31 Oct

IWM North Family Art Fest Daily, Free. Explore the collections in a week of art themed activities and take part in The Big Draw. Which object would you choose to show tomorrow’s museum visitors? A jump jet, a dog made out of blanket? See if you can spot the silent masked artist character as he sketches his way around the museum. Bring your own drawing materials or join one of the creative sessions to have a go.

0161 836 4000/ www.iwm.org.uk

Sat 26 Oct – Sun 3 Nov

People’s History Museum, Manchester The Big Build craft table 10am – 5pm Free, Drop in, All ages A week-long build of a mini future city in 3D. Imagine the sort of Manchester you’d like to live in and draw your own miniature model.

0161 838 9190 / www.phm.org.uk

Sat 26 & Sun 27, Wed 30 & Thurs 31 Oct

Bury Transport Museum Halloween Children’s Craft Workshops Get prepared for your trip on the East Lancashire Railways Halloween Ghost Trains in the best possible way. The museums spooky craft workshops are open late to provide the perfect start to a hauntingly fun experience.

0161 763 7949 / www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Sat 26, Sun 27 & Thurs 31 Oct East Lancashire Railway Halloween Ghost Trains All aboard for a thrilling family adventure.

Meet friendly monsters and colourful characters on your spooky journey through long dark tunnels and past abandoned stations.

0161 764 7790/ www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Sun 27 Oct

Tatton Park, Knutsford Fungal Punk Fungus Foray 11am – 3pm, Adult £7.50, Child £3.50 Join fungus expert Fungal Punk Dave on a guided walk of Tatton’s Parkland. Young or old, two or four-legged, all are welcome on this fun and unique walk, where you will discover a great deal about the mysterious fungal world. Bring a packed lunch.

01625 374428 / www.tattonpark.org.uk Hamilton Road Park, Whitefield M45 8QN Whitefield Halloween Festival 2013 11am – 4pm, £2 Medieval Story Teller, pumpkin carving, mystical creature creations, monster masks, traditional Halloween games, Minstrels Corner (acoustic sets), Creepy creatures, Bats, Falconry displays, Tarot, Hog Roast, Beer & Cider tent and a variety of stalls selling fair-trade and new age products. Plus gourmet food units, fancy dress and poetry competitions. www.halloweenfest.org.uk

Mon 28 & Thurs 31 Oct

Dunham Massey, Altrincham Family Rut Walks 11am – 4pm, Free (normal admission applies). Bellows and battles; the autumn rituals of Dunham’s deer revealed. Normal admission charges apply. Limited places, collect a timed token from the Ticket Office on the day. 0161 941 1025 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ dunham-massey

Remember to check online regularly for more listings – as not all event information is available at the time of going to print. www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Mon 28 Oct – Fri 1 Nov

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Autumn Spooktacular at the Mill 12 – 4pm, Free (normal admission applies).

Make yourself a beastly badge at this free craft activity and follow the Halloween trail through the Mill. 50p per trail.

01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ quarry-bank-mill

The Lowry, Salford (The Studio) Half Term Little Artists: Underwater 11am – 12.30pm, £3.50, Age 5 - 11 Dive deep underwater and cross the oceans to explore far off lands with the Snail and the Whale. Make your own sealife puppets and buried treasure chests out of recycled materials to take home.

Half Term Little Actors: At Sea! 11am – 12.30pm, £3.50, Age 2½ – 4½.

Journey on a spectacular adventure across the seas in this fun-filled workshop inspired by your favourite stories. Using drama games and classic characters to explore the unlikeliest of friendships, can you save the day when disaster strikes?

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com Jodrell Bank, Macclesfield October Half Term - COMETS! 11.30, 12.30, 2.30 & 3.30pm, Booking essential. Come and find out what a comet is, where they come from and watch us make our own in our interactive show!

01477 571 766 / www.jodrellbank.net/families

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

0161 838 9190 / www.phm.org.uk Bromley Cross Library Bumpus Jumpus Dinosaur Rumpus 4pm, Age 4 – 11, Free. A fun activity session all about Dinosaurs, including an interactive dinosaur blanket dig, and a chance to touch some ancient fossils and casts of dinosaur bones.

01204 332354 / www.bolton.gov.uk

Thurs 31 Oct

People’s History Museum, Manchester Living History performance: Slavery & Suffrage – William Cuffay’s Story 1.15 – 2pm, Free, Age 7+ A performance exploring the horrors of the slave trade and how it fuelled the Industrial Revolution. Meet William Cuffay, son of a freed slave, who became a Chartist leader and campaigned for the right to vote.

Celebrating Black History Month.

0161 838 9190 / www.phm.org.uk

What’s Header on Bromley Cross Library Spooky Stories 6pm, Age 4 – 11, Free Listen to some spooky stories after dark.

Fancy dress optional!

01204 332354 / www.bolton.gov.uk

The Met, Bury The Dragon Who Hates Poetry 11am, Age 5+, £6. A fun, solo show packed full of lyrics, laughter and lots of joining in!

0161 761 2216 / www.themet.biz

Wed 30 Oct

People’s History Museum, Manchester Draw Tomorrow’s Manchester 1.30 – 3.30pm, Free, All ages This year’s Big Draw theme is ‘Draw Tomorrow’. Help construct a vision of future Manchester on the floor of the museum and this artist-led session.

0161 838 9190 / www.phm.org.uk Manchester Jewish Museum Get Arty with the “School of Paris” 1 – 3.30pm, Free Let the kids find inspiration in the current exhibition “Chagall, Soutine and the School of Paris” and create their own works of art. Materials are provided and you won’t be the ones clearing up at the end!!

0161 834 9879 / www.manchesterjewishmuseum.com

Mon 28 – Sun 3 Nov

Manchester Museum October Half Term 11am – 4pm, Free, Drop in Discover more about the science behind the colour of animals and create colourful creatures. Take part in loads of Manchester Science Festival activities, including the Science Spectacular on Sat 2 Nov, 11am – 3pm. Part of the Family Arts Festival.

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

Tues 29 Oct

NT yard, Alderley Edge Spooky Trip Down the Mines!!!

7 – 9.30pm, £7, Age 6+ (must be accompanied). Join Derbyshire Caving Club for a Halloween tour of underground Alderley Edge. Fancy dress but it may get dirty due to the nature of the mines. Some ladder climbing and crawling involved.

Booking and advance payment essential.

01625 374833 / www.eventbrite.co.uk

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 27

What’s on

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