Families Cheshire Issue 11 - May/June 2011

Edition 11 • May/June 2011

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

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In this issue

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

Locally speaking

Inclusion in our locally speaking section is always FREE get in touch: editor@familiescheshire.co.uk

Puddle Ducks now in Mottram and Lymm

©Colex Photography

Puddle Ducks Mid Cheshire are delighted to announce the launch of their fabulous classes at Mottram Hall Hotel and Lymm Leisure Centre.

Baby swimmers love swimming for life! Puddle Ducks is a fun and friendly swimming programme offering unique baby swimming, toddler swimming and child swimming classes across the UK.

Welcome Phew! We’ve just survived Lily and Ben’s 5th birthday parties – settling for a pony party for Lily and a home affair for Ben with a bouncy castle and chocolate fountain. Yes, we had a few hyper kids, but that’s what the bouncy castle was for! So we’ve been in the perfect frame of mind to put together this issue’s party feature – there are loads of fantastic options for you to read about to make your child’s day extra special. We’ve also included some top tips to help you plan the big event, and some great ideas to stop your bank account taking a battering.

If you’re a relatively new mum, then don’t miss our Baby matters section, covering everything from weaning to swimming – and of course we’ve included our easy guide to What’s On in Cheshire over the next 2 months as well. Look out for some special offers throughout the magazine and don’t forget to visit our website for more great articles and competitions.

Enjoy this bumper issue – we’ll be back in July.

Caryl Hall

Jayne Keep

In this issue 02: 04: 05: 06:

Locally speaking News Education Bring on the party

Next issue: July/August 2011.

Circulation: 18,000 copies of Families Cheshire are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected shops and other points throughout Cheshire. If you would like free copies for your organisation, please let us know.

Contact details: Families Cheshire, PO Box 581, Macclesfield, SK10 9FN Tel: 01625 801 801 www.familiescheshire.co.uk Editorial: editor@familiescheshire.co.uk Advertising/artwork: advertising@familiescheshire.co.uk Events, diary dates, out & about: events@familiescheshire.co.uk Cover photograph by: teneight, Fence House, 84 Buxton Road, Macclesfield SK10 1JS. Tel: 01625 500 488 www.teneightstudios.co.uk

14: Parents’ place 16: Baby matters 22: What’s on

Design: Through Creative, The Old School, Byron Street, Macclesfield SK11 7QA. Tel: 01625 500 939 www.throughcreative.com Print: Bishops Printers, Walton Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO6 1TR Tel: 023 9233 4900 www.bishops.co.uk Families Cheshire is part of the Families group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license.

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

2 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

Babies and children can join their swimming classes at any age from birth; developing from water babies to confident swimmers without even realising they are 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. Children learn lifesaving, swimming and underwater skills and are often able to swim 10 metres or more before they start school. For more details please ring 01477 410080, e-mail midcheshire@puddleducks.com or visit www.puddleducks.com.

See page 21 for a special offer for Families Cheshire readers.

Barnaby Festival is back!

Family fun is definitely high on the agenda for this year’s Macclesfield Barnaby Festival, which takes place in the town centre on 17-19 June 2011.

Come along and enjoy a fabulous weekend of family-friendly entertainment, much of which is free! Starting off with a colourful and lively street parade through the town centre on Saturday morning, the Barnaby Fete on the lawns of Christchurch will keep little ones happy with a beach party, a barbeque and lots of pirate fun, including a dress-up box and craft tables.

Older children might prefer the sport and play activities planned for Sunday, or they can hook up with an adult and join in the Barnaby Treasure Hunt which should keep them busy looking for fiendishly cryptic clues all around town.

Whilst they’re at it they could search out the pianos placed on street corners (decorated by local artists) for everyone to play.

Circus skills workshops, strolling players, street dancers and an open-air concert will provide entertainment for the whole family on Sunday afternoon.

And there’s plenty for Mum and Dad to enjoy too (with or without the children) including live jazz, blues and classical music, a comedy club, a touring production of ‘Piaf – the songs’, and a specially commissioned opera, ‘The Bate Hall Ghost’.

For more information and to buy tickets for some of the events, please visit www.barnabyfestival.org.uk.

Earn some extra cash If you could do with a bit of pocket money, then why not join the Families distribution team? We’re looking for local mums and dads who can help us deliver our fantastic magazine to various points across Cheshire. We’re particularly keen to hear from you if you can help us in the West to Mid Cheshire area – from Chester to Northwich, Winsford to Nantwich and areas inbetween. All you need to do is drop in every other month to local schools, leisure centres, clubs, classes and selected shops – they’ll be expecting you! Email us (Caryl and Jayne) today on editor@familiescheshire.co.uk or call 01625 801801.

Locally speaking Tennis Tykes comes to Cheshire

With nominations in the bag for the “What’s On for Little Ones” awards, Tennis Tykes is already proving popular in the Yorkshire area. The Families Cheshire team attended a Tennis Tykes class (for under 5’s) in Cheshire and met Caroline Buncall, to discover more about the classes which will be rolled out in Knutsford, Wilmslow, Hale and Bramhall from May. Caroline starts off with a fun warm up and then there are lots of co-ordination activities and opportunities for the children to practise their counting and colour recognition skills. Caroline explains, “There is a fun, play based but educational approach

to the classes, and we teach and develop agility, balance and co-ordination through the sport of tennis. Scientists have also shown it to be the best first sport in ensuring great physical, emotional and mental well being.”

The nets then come out and each child hits the ball with the racket over the net.

With maximum numbers of 8 in a class it means that there is plenty of one to one attention from Caroline and at the same time, parents join in so they can also share in the thrill of their child’s achievements. Every child gets a Tommy or Tessa Tyke sticker for their achievement book and it’s clear they’ve had a great time.

For further information on the Tennis Tykes term time and holiday class programme and to book your FREE TASTER CLASS at one of the venues across Cheshire, please contact Caroline Buncall on 0784 3342662, email caroline.buncall@tennistykes.co.uk or log onto www.tennistykes.co.uk.

Teaching tennis to little ones from 2 years A fun and educational tennis play and skills programme Classes in various locations across Cheshire.

For information call Caroline Buncall on 07843 342 662 • www.tennistykes.co.uk

FREAEL

TRISON LES

Leading Nanny agency throughout Cheshire and North West • A range of full and part-time childcare services including, nannies, live in/out, babysitting, maternity nannies, emergency care, mothers help, housekeepers & special needs nannies.

• All candidates are thoroughly vetted, interviewed and reference checked • Home visits, to enable us to fully understand your requirements

Bear necessities

Bear Mania will be coming to Congleton in May, when up to 75 beautifully decorated bears will take up residence in and around the town. Each bear is five feet tall and will be decorated to a theme. The project is inspired by the Rhinos of Chester, Lambs of Liverpool and Cows of Manchester and is an ambitious community art project for a town of this size.

The Bear Mania volunteer team is made up of schools, businesses, artists and the town council. The bears will form walking, cycling and driving trails around the town and local area, and the main objective is to increase interest in the town and encourage extra visitors to Congleton.

At Marton C of E Primary School they have chosen ‘Cheshire Bear’ and have been really busy painting Cheshire Cheese, The Cheshire Cat, Jodrell Bank, dairy cattle, red tractors, Capesthorne Hall and at his heart is Marton church. Reception did end up painting each other!

Cheshire Bear will sit proudly outside Marton school’s main door (off the A34), and the school will have a bear launch and open day on 26th May from 2pm with Year 6 serving afternoon tea to visitors. For more information about Bear Mania, and about the town of Congleton, visit www.mybeartown.co.uk.

Tel: 01925 768188 or 07766 290802 Email: support@nannyplus.co.uk www.nannyplus.co.uk

Achieving the difference...

National Families Week celebrations Join Bamboo Childcare and Glo Family for a Family Fun Day on Friday 3 June (2.30-4.30pm) in Glo Family’s gorgeous gardens in Cheadle.

If it rains, the fun will reconvene in the studio. With a number of activities on offer during the afternoon including Footytotz, Enjoy-a-ball, Pyjama Drama, Face Painting, dance and summer craft activities, tickets are a steal at only £2.50.

Home made biscuits and juice will be on offer for the children, with delicious cakes for grown ups, and all proceeds from the day will go to the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital.

For more information or to book, contact Bamboo Childcare on 0844 822 5727 or Glo Family on 0844 800 7380.

Places are limited so book early!

www.familiescheshire.co.uk | Families Cheshire 3

News A Three Peaks adventure in the Yorkshire Hills Academic success kidsunlimited Grandmother in 2004, for Ryleys pupils

Two Nursery Nurses from Macclesfield are taking on a challenge of a lifetime by attempting to climb the three Yorkshire peaks this summer.

Kayleigh Welsh and Stephanie Dale who work at kidsunlimited Tytherington are currently training hard in preparation for the twenty five mile hike, which requires them to scale 5000 meters in just twelve hours.

Kayleigh and Stephanie are raising vital funds for staff and children based at a South African nursery. The Masibusiswe Charity, which was established by a

raises money for the development and improvement of childcare facilities within the village of Masibusiswe, South Africa. kidsunlimited nurseries have successfully raised and contributed in excess of £10,000 over the past nine years and gained a unique bond with the children and parents of Masibusiswe. kidsunlimited support wide range of charities across their 57 sites. Past fundraisers include Children in Need where nurseries successfully raised over £11,000 by undertaking a variety activities such as baking cakes, teddy bear picnics or wearing yellow. This year is no exception and there is a hive of activity buzzing through many of their sites preparing for fundraising events.

The highlight of the calendar so far is a journey planned by member of kidsunlimited head office who is based in Wilmslow. Caley Rankin, Sales Team Leader will be travelling 5000km across India in a rickshaw raising money for Frank Water Projects, a small initiative doing amazing things to help increase the quality of life for many in the heart of India.

Take your family on a journey of the imagination Following the success of their sold-out inaugural festival last year, Just So Festival is proud and excited to announce the launch of their expanded programme of events for 2011. The family arts festival will once again take place in the unspoilt landscape of Barnswood, Staffordshire – 65 acres of beautiful woodland where families can share a weekend of wonder, magic and discovery in the company of authors, performers, artists and musicians.

Weekend camping tickets allow families to experience the gamut of daytime and night-time events, culminating in the Campfire Circle and the Midnight Feast, whilst day tickets are also available with a wealth of creative activities and entertainment available to choose from each day.

Just some of the highlights from this year’s exciting and extended program of events will include: storytelling workshops with children’s author David Lucas, music from The Zen Hussies and The Morning Orchestra, Ninja training with the ‘Young Samurai’ author and martial arts expert, Chris Bradford and appearances from Elmer the Elephant and The Gruffalo.

For the younger festival-goers, the Peekaboo glade and Babes in the Wood site are designated areas where 0-2 year olds and their parents can enjoy some quiet time together or engage in a choice of activities that will stimulate or settle young minds.

For full programme information and to buy tickets, go to www.justsofestival.org.uk.

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

4 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

The Ryleys School in Alderley Edge is celebrating the outstanding success of its Year 6 and Year 8 pupils in achieving places at some of the area’s leading Independent Grammar Schools.

In the recent entrance examinations the 23 Year 6 pupils received a grand total of 64 offers between them, with all children obtaining a place at their first choice school, and 2 children receiving Scholarship offers.

In addition, Takao Ito, a Year 6 pupil, has beaten off fierce competition to gain a silver medal in the Primary Maths Challenge.

The nationwide competition receives over 300,000 initial entries, of which only 1,000 make it through to the finals. Being awarded a silver medal puts Takao in the top 200, which is a fantastic achievement.

To find out more about the opportunities that could await your child at The Ryleys, call the school on 01625 583241 – Headmaster Pat Barrett will be happy to give you your very own guided tour. www.theryleys.com.

Stockport Grammar’s “outstanding” result Staff and parents at Stockport Grammar School are delighted by the findings of a report by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), which concluded that in the Senior School ‘The pupils’ overall achievement and their learning, attitudes and skills are outstanding.’ Pupils in the Senior School were described as ‘exceptionally well educated’.

The conclusions for the Junior School were equally pleasing, with The Early Years Foundation Stage (Nursery and Reception classes) considered ‘outstanding’ for ‘overall effectiveness’, ‘quality of provision’ and ‘outcomes for children’. The ISI recognised the continuation of high standards throughout the Junior School, describing ‘the quality of the pupils’ achievements and of their learning, attitudes and skills’ as excellent. They gave the same high rating to curricular and extra-curricular experiences and to the development of the pupils’ personal qualities.

Headmaster, Andrew Chicken tells us “The ISI’s Inspectors spent five days at SGS and conducted a thorough examination of all aspects of the School. I am very pleased that they have recognised that, from the age of three to the age of eighteen, SGS provides the highest quality of education.

Our focus is on encouraging children to develop their talents to the full through the provision of a rich academic and extra-curricular life, and a happy and supportive school community. The ISI’s conclusions are an excellent testimony to the hard work of pupils, their teachers and the staff of our School.” www.stockportgrammar.co.uk

Music disappears from state schools The future of music in state schools is in peril, with councils across the country laying off music teachers in a bid to reform and cut budgets.

Teachers and heads of local authority music services have already been threatened with redundancy as a result of the Coalition Government’s squeeze on council spending, with at least 64 councils issuing redundancy notices to staff, according to the Incorporated Society of Musicians.

Professor Sue Hallam, of London University’s Institute of Education says: “Music education always suffers when there are cuts. It is seen by some as a Cinderella service – although it is not. The long-term consequences can be disastrous.” The redundancies are the

beginning of an assault on music education in 2011 – later in the year £80m aimed at providing music education will cease, followed by the pulling of funding for the teaching of arts and humanities courses at university, meaning they will be solely dependent on finance from student fees.

“Already you’ve got a shortage of primary school teachers trained in music,” says Carole Lindsay-Douglas, secretary of the School Music Association. “We’re going to get to a case of the blind leading the blind.”

She adds: “We’re in danger of creating a divide between the state school system and the public schools, which value music very highly and teach to very high standards.”

Education

Exchange for life

By Joanna Parry

Learning a language can be the key to your child’s future, giving them an invaluable skill that will set them up for life.

A French exchange can be a fun and interesting part of that learning - your child is immersed in the culture of the country, which often proves to be the most effective way of rapidly improving language skills.

“They develop greater mental agility, better communication skills and awareness of another culture,” says Annie, a mother of 3 who is a great fan of French exchanges.

“Beyond the academic benefits, exchange visits are a wonderful way to develop your child’s self-confidence and inter-personal skills and for them to make new friends.”

But how easy is it to organise a French exchange, and how do you start going about it? Many schools have their own exchange programmes, however more and more parents are opting to organise

exchanges through a number of different companies, all of whom will help you to arrange the swap. Here is our guide to help you navigate your way through arranging an exchange, so that your child has a successful and enjoyable experience.

The basics Exchange visits are based on reciprocal hospitality - your child will stay with a French family and one of the French family’s children will stay with you. Once you register with an exchange company, they will ‘match’ you with a French family based on age, interests and family background and then discuss with you possible dates of visits. Finding dates that work for both families can be tricky, so try to be as flexible as possible. Remember, you don’t have to restrict yourselves to the summer holidays – a half term swap can be a good bet too.

An exchange should only cost you a minimal fee to arrange, and then the cost of your child’s transportation. Be aware of some of the expensive foreign language travel programmes that sometimes masquerade as exchanges.

Most companies recommend exchanging when your child is 12 or over, for a maximum of 2 weeks. However it is possible to arrange an exchange for a younger child and some sites arrange for swaps for an extended period of up to 6 months.

Most exchange companies are available to provide assistance with translation and travel advice and to generally act as a ‘go-between’ if this is needed.

Although you will make your own travel arrangements, the French family is contracted to meet your child at the nearest port, railway station or airport.

Top tips • When you’re choosing a family to exchange with, make sure you look for a match not only with your child’s age but also their interests – shared passions are often the key to a successful exchange, whether it be football, horse riding or music. “My son went to stay with a lovely French family in August,” says Kate, mum of four. “We liked the family and the boys had similar interests, that was key!” A reputable exchange site will help you find a good match, but you can help by emailing or chatting to a number of families before confirming the exchange.

• Once you have chosen a family, encourage your child to communicate in French with their exchange by telephone or email.

• Make sure your child’s health records are up to date and write a parental authorisation in case of medical

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emergency. If your child has to take any kind of medication, make sure everything has already been purchased and that the prescription goes with your child.

Make clear notes of allergies to food or medicine.

Send your child to France with some spending money for outings and souvenirs Don’t forget to encourage your child to pack a camera, a notebook for writing down daily adventures and an MP3 player for the trip. A welcome present for their exchange’s family and a mini-dictionary will be useful too!

Make sure your child has full travel insurance and an E111 form It may sound obvious, but don’t forget to double check their passport is still in date!

When your child’s exchange comes to stay with you, enjoy taking them around your home town and seeing some of the sites you never found time to visit yourselves!

Sending your child off to live with another family can be stressful. “You need to be bold, have an open mind and be willing to trust another family with your child,” says Annie. “In return, when it is your time to host somebody else’s child, you will need to provide for them and make sure they feel equally at home. But I promise you, it’s all worth it. You will be giving your child the gift of a new language and a friend for life.”

Websites www.linguisticexchange.com. www.french-exchange.co.uk www.enfamille.com www.lingua-links.com www.lingoo.eu/language-exchange-french.html

Biff, Chip and Kipper hit the high street to inspire the next generation of book lovers The UK’s best-selling Read At Home series will be re-launched this May as Read with Biff, Chip and Kipper – totally in line with how children learn to read today and with a fresh new look. This is perfect timing ahead of the Government’s new phonics screening check for six year olds being introduced in primary schools next year, so parents can feel 100% confident their children will be learning to read at home in a way that matches how they will be learning to read at school.

The series from Oxford University Press follows the lives of the much-loved characters, Biff, Chip, Kipper and Floppy the Dog. Children will undoubtedly

recognise them from the Oxford Reading Tree series, used in more than 80 per cent of UK primary schools to help almost two million children to learn to read every year.

The bright and engaging books are designed for parents to complement their children’s experiences of learning to read at school by introducing the characters in the comfort of their home. The newly revised 48-title series will uniquely comprise a First Stories strand alongside a new Phonics strand. The Phonics books help early readers to practise letters and sounds at home just like they do at school, while the First Stories books are fun, motivating stories which introduce readers to common words and everyday language.

As well as attractive new covers featuring the ever-popular characters, the series will now encompass additional support for children starting out on the reading journey with an extra stage, Level 1: Getting Ready to Read.

Parents who are looking for inspiration and guidance on supporting their children’s reading should also visit the brand new, user-friendly website www.oxfordowl.co.uk for free engaging activities, online eBooks and practical advice on helping their child learn to read, how to say the phonic sounds and much more.

The Read with Biff, Chip and Kipper books will be widely available to purchase from 5 May 2011 (RRP £3.99).

The teachers from Bollington Cross C of E Primary School commented: “We like the fact that these new books are hard back, as they are popular with the children and will now last longer. The stories are relevant and the children enjoy the humour. We also like the activities at the end of the books – these are great for the parents to do with the children”.

www.familiescheshire.co.uk | Families Cheshire 5

Bring on the party Bright ideas for birthdays

by Robina Cowan

DID SOMEONE SAY party?

Yes, I’m afraid so. One thing’s as sure as eggs is eggs – your child WILL have another birthday in the next year.

It’s Families to the rescue – we’ve put on our party hats to find the best suppliers around to ensure your ‘do’ is one they’ll talk about, until at least next year...

BEFORE YOU START It’s worth bearing in mind the differing needs, interests and numbers of particular age groups.

Don’t feel the party has to last all afternoon – around two hours is enough, before everyone gets tired and emotional (not least the host parents). As a guide: One and two year-olds aren’t yet ready for a big affair. Most parents opt for a family get-together or a not too big buffet with a handful of friends with similar aged children. Enjoy it while you can – it’s a doddle to organise and sociable for the adults (it has been known for babies to sleep right through while the grown ups catch up over nibbles) Three year-olds need planned activities. Name badge them on arrival then capture their imagination with simple ‘circle time’ singing and clapping games, or ‘dancing’ (i.e. jumping up and down to music).

Balloons burst and it can all end in tears – hang them high as decorations rather than introducing them as playthings. The ideal guest list for this age is around 8-12 children in a venue where they feel familiar – usually your home (sorry about that!)

Four to six year-olds enjoy joining in with traditional party games, such as Simon Says, Musical Bumps, Pass the Parcel, What’s the Time Mr Wolf, and Musical Lions (a favourite with parents, as the children have to be quiet, and still!). Allow space and time too for simply zipping around for a burst of unstructured play (which is where you’ll be thankful you blew up all those balloons). Plenty of engaging games and giggles keep things rolling, and if you’re hiring help, puppeteers, music-

©Tony Crescibene

makers or storytellers are a good bet.

A maximum of 20 guests at this age is about right.

PLANNING YOUR PARTY Crowd control: entertainers Bubbles, puppets, drama, music, ‘make’ party or magician? A good entertainer will bring your party to life and keep the children enthralled while you enjoy the fun from a safe distance.

While there are parents who think nothing of timetabling two hours of games, entertaining Other People’s Children is not a breeze, which is where expert help is well worth the investment.

TIP: Children’s entertainers generally have vast experience and contacts which you can tap into. Ask them about local venues for hire, a realistic timetable and suitable prizes as well as the entertainment itself. Find out their preferred age group, and the maximum number of children they will cope with – too many and you’ll not get the best out of them. Write down everything you’ve agreed together so there is no doubt on the day.

Take them out: venues It might feel less imaginative than an

6 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

organised bunfight at yours, but do you really have the time, energy and creativity to decorate your house as a fairy or superhero den, then clear it all up four hours later? Thought not.

Happily there are plenty of places where all you have to do is pay the per-head charge and the guests will be entertained and fed, leaving you to return to your quiet, tidy house afterwards. Try childfriendly restaurants, bowling alleys, gokarting, indoor playcentres, sports clubs, the zoo, a pottery painting studio or cinema.

TIP: Book well ahead. There are only so many party groups venues can accommodate at any given time – you don’t want to be scratching around at the last minute and end up having to book ‘second best’.

Themed parties A great idea when your child has a particular interest, themes can be explored in many different ways. How about a drama, musical, circus or magic party, a sports party; or get crafty making bags, jewellery or cookies, or print tshirts to match the theme.

TIP: Take the theme throughout the party – print off related pictures from the web as wall decorations, ask the guests

to dress up with a prize for the best home-made hat.

TOP TIPS • It’s all in the timing: For little children, 11am-1pm or 12-2pm are best. Most of them have been up since six and they’re past their best by the afternoon. For older children a lunchtime slot or mid afternoon start will work.

• Liaise with parents whose children have birthdays around the same time. If you both book the same day for a party, the guest list will be tricky. Joining forces is a much better idea – you can share the costs and the hassle.

• Keep the food simple and don’t over cater. Most children are too excited to have a big appetite. Limit the junk food and remember some children may be vegetarian or have a food intolerance.

• Sleepovers: come midnight, you’ll be regretting it... Planning ahead is KEY. Read our ‘been there, done that’ parent’s guide: go to www.familiescheshire.co.uk and type ‘successful sleepovers’ into the search box.

Bring on the party Partying with prudence

Parties can cost a small fortune so here are some tips on how to cut costs without being a party pooper.

Share your party You’ll halve the cost at least and the more the merrier – however, beware of parties with flocks of children as they can be impersonal and a little unruly.

Avoid expensive party bags Try these ideas:

By Susan Lightfoot

• Use brown paper bags or even sandwich bags.

• The cake is the sweet treat in your party bag.

• Packs of books from www.thebookpeople.co.uk can cost less than £1 each.

• Car boot sale toys are always cheap.

Give them a clean, wrap them up, put them in a lucky dip and your guests will be chuffed to bits.

Simplify your party menu • Pizza delivered to your party is a great idea and the kids love it. For drinks do squash rather than individual juices.

• Jelly is cheaper and more amusing than lots of biscuits or fairy cakes.

Get creative with your party entertainment It’s much more fun (and hard work) to do it yourself than hiring an entertainer but children love traditional games and parents will be impressed. Try some of these: • Pass the parcel with forfeits, musical statues, musical bumps and disco dancing competition.

• Make a junk robot – save all your recycled bits and pieces and the children can have fun sticking and painting or do a massive collage together.

• The newspaper game is brilliant fun – a pile of broadsheets, two teams, screw up the paper into balls, shout

“GO” and the winning team is the one with least on their side.

• Paint a plant pot. This doubles as an activity and a going home gift and you could add seeds like sunflowers or cress seeds too.

Party in the park or garden If you’re lucky enough to have a spring or summer birthday then the park or garden is a must.

Do your venue research or use your house For kids born at cooler times of year it’s hard to avoid the expense of hiring a venue so do your research. Check church halls and council run venues like leisure centres, playgroups or nurseries. If you are brave enough to have a party in your home then put down big sheets so the mess can be cleared easily and create boundaries for the guests – you don’t want to find jelly in your bed!

Once Upon A Pony Bespoke Pony Parties and Miniature Ponies for Every Occasion enquiries@onceuponapony.co.uk Tel: 07575 971375

www.onceuponapony.co.uk

www.familiescheshire.co.uk | Families Cheshire 7

Bring on the party Make your birthday party special with Rhythm Time

A party to remember Party like a popstar at Barnaby’s at Orchard Studios

Planning your child’s birthday party can be quite stressful. There are so many companies offering a wide variety of entertainment. How do you choose what’s going to be best for your little one and their friends on this very special occasion?

A Rhythm Time party offers a funfilled celebration packed with songs, activities and playing musical instruments. The party is tailored for babies, toddlers or pre-schoolers and can even include your favourite parts from their classes.

Rat-a-tat, Rhythm Time’s cuddly mascot rabbit, also makes a special appearance with a present and card for the birthday child.

Having a party at Barnaby’s Playbarn will be an unforgettable experience.

Whatever the occasion, the Barnaby’s Team want it to be extra special. Parties can be tailored to suit you and all include a party meal, play at Barnaby’s and a disco with snow, bubbles, fog and a chance to dance with Barnaby Bear! You can also have Barnaby’s all to yourself with their Exclusive Do’s – theme your party and be a Princess or a Pirate! Take advantage of their 10% discount by booking your party for June, July or August, before the end of June. For more details please phone Nic or Sarah on 01606 301321 or visit www.barnabys-playbarn.com.

“We’ve had the most amazing feedback from our parties,” says Frances Donkin, who runs Rhythm Time classes across Cheshire. “It’s wonderful to see the children’s happy faces as they sing their favourite songs. And they are so excited to see Rat-a-tat! There are pom-poms, hoops, balls, plus lots of other exciting musical activities that the children can enjoy” she adds.

The parties cater for up to 20 children in a venue of your choice. For more information, contact Frances on 01270 884583 or visit the website www.rhythmtime.net.

8 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

If your child dreams of being a popstar, here’s their chance! Orchard Studios in Congleton offers a party of lifetime for children aged 10-16, where they can experience what it’s like to be real recording artist. At a Pop Party (for a maximum of 8 children), the children will spend 3 hours working as a group on their very own album, recording tracks by their favourite pop stars. The studio team will take photos during the session, and design full artwork for the finished CD – with each child given a copy to take home. Pop Parties are available 7 days a week, and cost just £170. For full details and bookings, call Kate on 01270 877208, or email her at kate@orchardstudios.co.uk. www.orchard-studios.co.uk.

Bring on the party Brookside Pottery birthday parties

Bumble’s birthday teas

The new look Brookside Garden Centre provides activities for all age groups and arranges special occasion parties.

You choose how to mark your own special event! One of the options is a 2 hour party starting with the much talked about “Potters’ Wheel Experience” where each child makes a pot on the potters’ wheel and leaves it to be fired in the kiln while painting an item of their choosing. This could be taken home on the day or left to be glazed. Then party on with a free ride for all participating children on Brookside’s famous miniature railway before returning to the pottery for a party feast laid out by the Brookside team. As a thank you for asking them to host your party, Liz and Dave will give the birthday child a voucher to come back and glaze a mug!

Renowned for their easy and relaxed approach, plus 15 years of experience, Liz and Dave will make your party a totally memorable event.

Please call 07946 637499 (Liz) or 07961 838753 (Dave), or visit www.brooksidepottery.com for more details.

Bumble’s Birthday Teas is a new product designed and supplied by Working Lunch UK Limited. Freshly prepared hand made birthday teas are delivered to your door on the morning of the party allowing you to relax and enjoy the fun!

The Children's tea package (£5 per child) includes a selection of handmade fresh sandwiches (tuna, chicken, cheese, jam and egg), hand decorated and iced cupcakes for boys and girls, jelly pots, fruit snack bags, crisps, biscuits and juice carton. The adult platters (£10-15 per platter) include chicken skewers, crudités and dips.

They also provide plates and napkins decorated with the Bumble’s bear logo so all your party catering needs are taken care of by making a call!

For Bumble bookings phone Peter on 07595 028294 or Jane on 07885 428473, or email peterjduckworth@aol.com.

Fun, fun and more fun – at Fun4all Fun4all’s extensive party offering now includes their new LaserPlay and Bears4All (make your own bear) options which are proving popular with the slightly older children. And their new Early Exclusive VIP (5.00-7.00pm) and Late Exclusive (6.00-8.00 pm) parties help customers combine celebrations, invite larger numbers and enjoy that all important exclusive experience – also great for School/PPA and other organisations.

All their parties include party food (hot & cold), invitations, a party room for the full 2 hours plus a party bag for the guests. With every party hosted by their friendly, trained staff, over 98% of all their customers have said they would definitely recommend fun4all to a friend.

Fun4all is committed to providing you with high levels of customer service, a great value extensive menu (all home made) and a clean and safe environment for the children to enjoy. Their admission prices continue to include 2 hours of play (only imposed on very busy days, so you can stay for longer without it costing you any more).

This year they have extended their Meal Deal offer to include a category for Toddlers during the week (term time only). For just £5 your child can enjoy unlimited play with a choice of food from the children’s menu. Also for Toddlers during the week they have extended their range of external classes (FootyTotz, Sue’s Tennis, Little Kickers and Playmakers) and introduced their own free activity sessions (Mon – music and movement, Weds – arts and crafts). www.fun4all.co.uk.

For party bookings taken (for 15 or more children) between now and the end of May 2011 – if you quote ref FAM0411 when you book your party you will qualify for a Fun4All Summer Pass (enabling the party child to enjoy unlimited play during May, June & July 2011).

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Bring on the party Discover Bollington Health & Leisure – more than what you’d expect Since 1977 Bollington Leisure Centre has served the needs of the local community through quality swimming lessons, affordable gym membership, a variety of exercise classes and many different beauty and remedial therapies.

In 2010 the centre became Bollington Health & Leisure, reflecting changes in the industry and the centre evolution. People often comment on the ‘tardis like’ quality of the centre with many unexpected facilities on offer, one being the soft play. This room offers the opportunity for under 5’s to explore bricks, balls, tunnels, ramps and steps where parents can either join in or

oversee the fun from the tea room with a hot drink. The room is available for parties too, and at just £35 for 2 hours, it’s the perfect, affordable venue for your little one’s special day.

The soft play can also be an ideal start to a young family’s day as the centre is surrounded by countryside and canal – so why not start in the soft play, have lunch and then set out into the fresh air?

Bollington Health & Leisure has more on offer than you think, call in at anytime to see what they can do for you. www.bollingtonleisure.co.uk 01625 574774

Let their imaginations run wild at Legoland Discovery Centre LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre in Manchester is perfect for birthday parties for children aged 3 to 10. With packages starting from £12.50 plus vat per child, which includes entry to the Centre, party food, birthday cake, use of the party room, plus one free adult for every child attending, parties at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre offer great value and fantastic fun! Plus, during your time in the party room, you will be joined by a party host who will keep the children entertained while the organiser joins the party! In addition, personalized LEGO bricks are an alternative to a party bag offered by the Centre, costing just £1 each.

Children will feel as though they have just jumped into the biggest box of LEGO® bricks ever when they visit LEGOLAND Discovery Centre! They can join the battle on Kingdom Quest – an interactive LEGO laser ride, feel a part

of the story in the 4D cinema, learn top LEGO building secrets from the Master Model Builder, see iconic landmarks in MINILAND, and much more... it’s the ultimate place for all LEGO fans – young and old!

New for 2011 is the Merlin’s Apprentice ride. Enter Merlin’s magical potion room and discover a LEGO wizard’s world of spells and sorcery.

Round and round you go, pedal as fast as you can to help Merlin conjure his magic – can you reach the skies and become Merlin’s top wizarding apprentice?

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre is your passport to a LEGO world of colour, creativity and fun. With over 2 million LEGO bricks under one roof, what will you discover?

For more information visit www.LEGOLANDDiscoveryCentre.co.uk, and to book your party call 0871 222 2662.

The coolest play centre in Cheshire Polar Palace is the COOLEST Children’s Indoor Play and Party Centre in Cheshire. When Mark and Paula Smith set up Polar Palace 5 years ago it was their aim to give Cheshire a Play Centre where both children and adults had a great time. They provide a very relaxing cafe which offers an extensive menu for children and adults, soft leather sofas, a 42” inch TV and a variety of papers and magazines so the grown ups can relax while the children play.

For all you party lovers, Polar Palace has recently introduced 3 new party packages to their collection including the Play Party for people on a tight

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budget who only have a small number of guests, The Build a Bear Party where each party guest gets to build their own bear to take home together with a birth certificate, and the X-Factor karaoke party for all the budding stars out there.

These are in addition to the ever popular Tots parties for the under 4’s, The Polar Party and the VIP party for people who fancy having the venue for just their friends and family.

Why not check out the Polar Palace website at www.polarpalace.co.uk for more details and offers or sign up to their Newsletter and receive a 10% discount voucher.

Bring on the party Once Upon A Pony bespoke pony parties – turning fairytale pony dreams into reality!

Are you looking for an extra special luxury pony party? Once Upon A Pony creates amazing pony parties at your home or chosen venue. With every party planned to suit your personal preference and tailored to suit the individual child you can rest assured that it will be a day to remember. As every child’s birthday is a very special occasion, Once Upon A Pony believe that quality content and a luxury feel is paramount. Your venue will be transformed in your chosen colour scheme and accessorized to create the perfect party backdrop. As well as the stereotypical ‘pony party’ for boys and girls, Once Upon A Pony specialize in creating themed parties.

With real western tack for all those aspiring cowboys/girls, or a pretty decorated carriage for the little princess

in your life – whatever you have in mind they will use their party planning experience to set the scene. As well as the children getting to pamper, groom and ride their miniature ponies they can provide a great range of un-mounted pony themed games too. Every party is hosted by a qualified early years practitioner with over 30 years of equine experience, so you can relax and know the children are in good hands. In addition to the parties a popular choice with groups of mums is a home visit.

No need to travel, simply gather together a group of 6 friends, and Once Upon A Pony will attend with 2 ponies and provide lots of pony fun and craft activities in the comfort of your own home. www.onceuponapony.co.uk.

A Sweetie Pie party for your sweetie pie

©Iraine

Party time with Jabberjacks Jabberjacks has been entertaining children for over 10 years, providing activities through pre-school classes, together with party entertainment for children aged between 2 and 7 years.

If you’re searching for a special children’s party experience this year then Jabberjacks is just what you are looking for.

Their unique parties take the stress away from parents and offer lots of different activities to keep the children’s interest throughout, ensuring there is never a dull moment.

PLAYMATES parties are for 2 to 4 year olds and include puppets, bubbles, teddies, games and activities, all hidden in a magic box. Their faces will light up with delight when JoJo arrives with a party gift and all his friends.

JUNIORS parties are for 5 to 7 year olds and are fast paced, energetic with exciting games revealed from the magic box, crazy dancing to the latest hits and much, much more; they even get to choose their own prizes!

For more information and your local contact details, visit www.jabberjacks.co.uk.

The Sweetie Pie Bakery offers a complete package for children’s birthday parties. Catering for a maximum of 12 children aged from 5 upwards, and at a basic cost of £220, the parties last for 2 hours and can be arranged on a Saturday or Sunday 11.30am-1.30pm or 3.30-5.30pm.

During the party, the children decorate a chef’s hat and make a box to put their creations in, decorate a selection of cupcakes with frosting and roll and cut their own cookies to be baked during the party. The party also includes a traditional party lunch/tea (this can be tailored to suit certain dietary requirements), a personalised birthday cake decorated to your child’s own specification, a present for the birthday boy/girl and a goodie bag for each child to take home. Invitations and photo thank you cards are also provided. Party photo collage posters and photo books are available as extras too. All staff have current criminal record checks and most have an NVQ level 2 qualification or above in childcare. For an order form and to find out availability for your chosen date, please speak to Kirsty either on 07789 072015 or by email thesweetiepiebakery@googlemail.com. www.thesweetiepiebakery.net.

BIRTHDAY TEAS

Freshly prepared hand-made birthday teas and adult’s snacks delivered to your door We supply the food – you relax and enjoy the party!

All food is prepared on commercial premises accredited to the highest standards by Environmental Health and Local Authority.

For Bumble bookings phone Peter on 07595 028294 or Jane on 07885 428473 Email: peterjduckworth@aol.com

BIRTHDAY TEAS

www.familiescheshire.co.uk | Families Cheshire 11

Bring on the party Giggle with a Gigglepop Party

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

Go Kiddy Karts – Indoor go karting birthday parties for 4 to 9 year olds Give your child's party extra momentum with Go Kiddy Karts.

They'll organise the party, providing a well-structured, fully supervised indoor electric gokarting experience for your child and their friends. And to make things easier for you, they offer a complete package, including optional party bags and catering, free birthday invitations, certificate for every child, engraved medal for the birthday child and an exclusive login area for you as a

customer where you can keep track of your party. Check out their venues in Didsbury and Urmston.

Their karts are adjustable in speed so they can cater for the younger children as well as the older children who want to go faster.

They have a range of team games and races that suit every age group and try and make their parties as stress free for parents as they can – you just get the kids to them and they’ll do the rest! www.go-kiddy-karts.co.uk.

GigglePop will take the stress out of organising your children’s party; they can do as much or as little as you want at a price that suits your budget. They can provide party bags, invites, prizes, catering requirements and even decorate your home or venue to suit any theme.

Anything is possible, just ask.

They specialise in Art, Themed & Traditional Parties. The materials used are child friendly and will wash off. At the end of the party they CLEAN the area just to save you the heartache, leaving you with only good memories and a stress-free day!

GigglePop Parties are specially designed to entertain kids: Birthday’s, Leaving, End of Term, School Holidays, in fact any kind of party.

Their professional Party Leaders will captivate and enchant your children with any number of exciting games and activities. Check out their website to get some brilliant ideas. www.gigglepop.co.uk.

School holiday baking activities for children aged 4+ Complete party packages for children aged 5+ The perfect opportunity for your child to learn basic baking skills, make new friends and have fun!

Call Kirsty on 07789072015 E-mail: thesweetiepiebakery@googlemail.com 3 Samuel St, Macclesfield, SK11 6UW www.thesweetiepiebakery.net

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Bring on the party Superstars sports parties

Celebrate with ease Speckled Hen at Glo Family children’s parties

Pick your favourite from the list: football (5+), rugby (6+), netball (7+), basketball (7+), hockey (7+), cheerleading (6+), multi sports (3-8), sports day (6+) or minor games (6+) and the party can be tailored made around this to suit your requirements.

Each party will have two fully qualified sports coaches to run the sessions for you ensuring the children are picking up some skills as well as having fun.

There are a variety of packages available depending on how many you want to attend and how much of the extra bits such as party bags, food and additional other party games you would like to have provided. Guest lists of 30+ can be catered for (additional coach provided for large groups).

For full details see www.littlesuperstars.co.uk or call Louise on 07904 311552.

Arranging your child’s birthday party can be hard work; finding a venue, sourcing some decent entertainment, food and invites all takes time and energy!

Glo Family in Cheadle not only offer a unique venue but they will research and plan the whole party for you, free of charge. Whether you want a Star Wars theme, a festival of fairies or a pony party, all you’ll need to do is turn up. The rest will have all been done for you. Although Glo Family specialise in children’s parties, they can offer you whole venue hire of their delightful converted church or their studio for any number of events from hen parties to christenings. They also offer delicious homemade food for kids and adults and a large range of entertainment options. This really is a party space with a difference.

0844 504 7465 www.glofamily.com

Speckled Hen Children’s Parties are held in an idyllic countryside location at their professional bakery and party rooms near Holmes Chapel. Established in 2002, Speckled Hen baking and craft parties give children the chance to learn new skills while having great fun. They do everything for you and provide everything you need – all the food and drink for the party, optional party bags, balloons and birthday cakes and above all, expert supervision from their own highly-experienced staff. All you need to do is take your children and let them enjoy themselves – no venue to book or mess to clear up! Everyone goes home really happy with something special to show and share with the family.

Go to www.speckledhenparties.co.uk for more detailed information about the children’s parties that are on offer, and look out for their cookery courses at Speckled Hen Cookery School, to help keep the children entertained during school holidays.

FunStuff for Parties

Make a wish... and let it happen Uncover the North’s best kept secret and invite Make a Wish Entertainment to your party celebrations. Specialising in bespoke children’s entertainment, they will work with you and your child’s requests to create the party you wish for. This elite company are well known for their unique style of entertainment with their Character Story Journeys taking the party world by storm. Their interactive theatre approach allows children to engage with the character(s) they meet and together explore the themes and stories you choose.

Whether you invite Spiderman and help him beat the Green Goblin or follow Tinkerbell across Neverland to find Captain Hook’s lost treasure… Make a Wish will bring your celebrations to life.

Make a Wish use this unique theatrical approach to offer a variety of party options including; Disney Princess,

Fantasy Photo Shoots, Teddy Bear/Raggydoll Making, Pop Star Experiences, Star Wars, Ben 10 and Spy Training, Tiny Tots Parties and many more. You choose the theme and they will create it, your wish truly is their command. You will also be pleased to hear that Make a Wish can provide themed party decor including fantasy sets and balloons, party bags, party food and fairytale birthday cakes, ensuring your party is perfect in every way.

Make a Wish also offer entertainment for Christenings, Weddings, Corporate Events and any occasion where you need entertainment for the children.

Contact Make A Wish today to speak to one of their experienced event planners for a free party consultation on 01924 281 365 or visit www.makeawishentertainment.co.uk.

If you’re looking for bouncy castles, party tents, gazebo’s, banners, balloons, ready-made pass-the-parcels or party bags, then look no further than FunStuff for Parties. With four young girls of her own, owner Jane Thomas has had plenty of experience planning parties.

She offers great prices and a fantastic service. Give her a call on 01625 614803/07958 429478 to see what she can offer you.

Cheshire Pony Centre – unique parties and experiences A visit to the Cheshire Pony Centre is a very special experience with the emphasis on fun, confidence building and informal learning. Their tiny, gentle, child friendly ponies are cherished pets and graze happily in their idyllic orchard at the bottom of the garden, and they offer petting and riding from age 2 at open afternoons, school holiday events, private pony experiences as well as wonderful, unique pony parties. You can simply relax and enjoy your child’s amazing party while everything is organised for you. This small team of mums is perfectly placed to entertain your children with their abundance of fascinating pony facts and escapades gained from their many years’ experience of owning, breeding, training and competing horses and ponies.

The centre is only 10 minutes from Chester, Tarporley, Cuddington and Frodsham and only 30 minutes from Knutsford, Warrington, Neston, Wrexham, Mold and Nantwich.

Party packages start at £225, with discounts available mid-week. Go to www.cheshireponyparties.co.uk to find out more, or call Amanda on 01829 219106.

Turn to page 22 to find out more about half term activities at the Centre.

Parties at Bollington

Soft play parties take place at weekends or other days upon request. £35 for 2 hours, for under 5 yrs.

Soft, safe play room overlooked by parents.

01625 574 774 www.bollingtonleisure.co.uk

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Parents’ place Are you a single dad? together were a great way to connect with my children. You have a laugh whilst learning new skills and there is always something to talk about at the end of the day.” Choose from a Wilderness Experience in the Arctic Circle at Easter, an Alpine Challenge in the Alps in August or an Island Escape in Corfu in July, plus many more.

The Kids and Me is a new adventure holiday company for single parent families, in particular single dads and their kids.

From dog-sledding in the Arctic Circle to following war-time freedom trails across the Pyrenees, brand new holiday company The Kids and Me offers real-life adventures that will appeal to both dads and mums and their children. The Kids and Me focuses on a voyage of discovery together, leaving lasting memories that money just can’t buy.

Founder Richard Gould, himself a single dad, launched The Kids and Me when he had to adapt from seeing his children every day to just in the holiday time and weekends – he wanted to make sure his time with the kids counted. “I have always loved the outdoors and, post divorce, found that doing activities

The Kids and Me holidays are organised in small groups, staying in fully catered lodges where friendships will be made and sustained. “Both the parents and children on our holidays have a fantastic time,” says Richard. “The activities really build confidence in some of these children – it’s really touching to see firsthand. Dads can be dads and kids can be kids.” www.thekidsandme.co.uk.

Create Fashion Whether you are a complete beginner or a talented dress-maker, iFashionDesign offers workshops for young designers which are fun, friendly and fashion-filled.

With after-school, bespoke and holiday workshops they provide young fashion designers with a space to get creative – have fun, socialise and learn new skills such as designing and making clothes, creating textiles and prints, figure drawing, recycling and customising, sewing techniques and arts and crafts with a fashionable twist.

Their workshops for 8 – 14 years are perfect for budding designers to have fun and get creative with clothes, bags, hair-bands, accessories and jewellery.

Now the company are offering a business opportunity for mums across the country – in a climate of fewer jobs and frequent redundancies more people are looking to franchising and Claire Gray, who set up iFashionDesign says that those interested in a franchising opportunity do not need a background in fashion or business as the company offers comprehensive training, plus all the materials and support needed to set up and run your own business. “We were confident that our unique workshops would appeal to young people,” says Claire.

“Our mission is to inspire young people, get them making friends and fill them with confidence.” To learn more about this franchise opportunity and become a part of the iFashionDesign team visit www.ifashiondesign.co.uk/franchising.

A tasty treat three things to do with Truffle Oil

by Neil Hennessy-Vass If you have never used Truffle Olive Oil then there are a few things you need to know. It’s extremely strong in taste, so a little goes a long way. Try a bit at a time – add more if you like what you taste. Also it’s sold in a few forms – the best being ‘infused’. There are other kinds but I wouldn’t bother with them as they can be a bit artificial and synthetic tasting.

You can add a few drops to scrambled eggs – this will increase the depth of flavour.

Just add them at the end after you have taken them off the hob and stir in just before serving.

Eggs and truffles are a good match.

When you have made a large batch of mash potato, adding butter and cream are a natural improvement. If Truffle oil is added not only will this increase the creaminess of the dish but it will enrich the mash enormously. I find that if left for a day in the fridge it intensifies the flavour.

If you fancy making a very easy and quick starter (perfect when you have people drop in unexpectedly!), here’s something you can make pretty much any time. Take some sliced Salami (you can keep this in the freezer and use what you need) add one drop of Truffle Oil to each slice then a fine shaving of Parmesan Cheese and a grind of black pepper. Then place on a thin slice of French Baguette (buttered if you like).

Bet you’ll have more than one!

Buddies on the net

A new online resource has been set up for parents of special needs children: www.netbuddy.org.uk provides hundreds of practical tips and simple yet ingenious solutions to everyday issues encountered by parents, carers, teachers and therapists working with learning disability.

From brushing teeth to managing challenging behaviour, Netbuddy lists over 850 practical tips and suggestions from people with first-hand experience of special needs, with the tip count growing daily as more people contribute. “The idea for Netbuddy came about when my son was small,” says Deborah Gundle, director of www.netbuddy.org.uk and

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mother of a son with profound learning disabilities. “I spent so much time and energy solving day-to-day problems which I felt sure other people had overcome before me. Then one day it came to me – I should start writing down my ideas for other people to use, and encourage them to share their own.” The tips on the site are organised into easyto-find sections – from everyday stuff such as sleeping and eating, to health and hygiene, managing behaviour and tips with help and support. “People can come to Netbuddy for practical suggestions, they can talk to other people on the interactive forum and they can share their own ‘eureka moments’ within a community that understands and appreciates the hard work that has gone into those successes.” Get a tip, share a tip, swap ideas on the forum and join a friendly learning disability community at www.Netbuddy.org.uk.

Parents’ place Mums in business

Bryony Pearce writer

Tell us a bit about yourself. My name is Bryony Pearce and I live in Bollington with my two children (Maisie 5 and Riley 2), my husband, Andy and a cat who thinks she’s a dog. We moved here from London about seven years ago when we decided we’d rather raise children outside the city and we’re very pleased we did because it’s given us a fantastic quality of life. I was born in Ashington, Northumberland, but moved around a fair bit because my dad was in the Air Force, so if anyone asks where I’m from I find it hard to say. I probably spent the largest proportion of my formative years in Bedfordshire. I went to Cambridge University, worked in Market Research for about five years then, when we moved up here, I went freelance. I worked from home as a freelance researcher telecommuting for my old boss and generating my own local clients for about two years. It was then with the ability to set my own hours, that I took the opportunity to take my writing more seriously.

What is your business? I am a full time Mum, but because I was able to set my own hours, for a while I was also a market researcher (for the money) and a writer (for the fun of it). I gave up the Market Research completely when I got pregnant with Riley and now call myself a writer. My first book, Angel’s Fury, will be published on 4th July with Egmont.

How did you get started? I’ve always wanted to write and have been scribbling down stories and ideas for as long as I can remember (the earliest one I can clearly recall is about a fifty pence piece who wanted to become a pirate – I was six or seven at the time). After university I stopped writing, when I decided that I had to become practical and make money, but then I felt so stultified I signed up for a short story writing course with the London School of Journalism. Windrunner’s Daughter (the first full length novel I attempted) was originally a short story I came up with for that class. I won a competition (Undiscovered Voices) with Windrunner’s Daughter. That got me an agent and I wrote Angel’s Fury while I was pregnant with Riley.

What does the future hold for the business? Angel’s Fury will be published on the 4th July and following that I’ll have publicity events to do (school visits, festivals, book signings). I’ve written another novel, The Society, a sort of modern ghost story which I’m hoping will get picked up once Angel’s Fury has proven itself. I’m about fifteen chapters into a total rewrite of Windrunner’s Daughter (I will get that novel right if it kills me) and about six chapters into a book about the end of the world as we know it. I’ve got any number of stories inside me. It’s just finding the time to get them all from fingertip to laptop.

What is the best bit about what you do? I love writing. I love seeing the story develop and having those eureka moments when I think of something really exciting to put in the book. I’m proud of what I’ve achieved so far and it’s amazing when friends and family say they’re proud of me too. It’s been a long journey and I’ve had support all the way, from reading rejection letters with my husband Andy, to

taking calls about possible agent representation while on a play date with my friend Clare, to getting a book deal in the car on the way to another author’s book launch. I also love the fact that I can fit my work around my children. I’m still a full time Mum and that’s hugely important to me. When I visited my daughter’s school I asked Maisie to tell her classmates about my job... and she informed them that I did washing up, cooking and laundry! Hopefully when she gets older the writing will seem more important to her and she’ll be proud of me too..

Any bad bits? The publishing industry is very difficult to break into and years of rejections can be a bit soul destroying.

You just have to keep your self-belief and determination. I’ve had to learn patience too; the waiting part is hard. You can send a Manuscript and not hear back for months. On a more practical note, it can be frustrating when you feel like you’re writing really well, you’re in the flow... and the baby wakes up and you can’t get back to it for two days. But on the whole there aren’t many bad bits in what I do. I’m extremely lucky.

How do you fit work around family life? Luckily from 11 months Maisie was a fairly reliable sleeper so I would set my alarm for 5:45am, get up and do two hours writing before she woke up. That was how I wrote Windrunner’s Daughter, the Middle Grade novel that won me the Undiscovered Voices competition and an agent, but is, as yet, unpublished.

Riley is a much less reliable sleeper (he had lactose and dairy intolerance and silent reflux) and has literally just started to sleep through on a semi-regular basis so the idea of getting up at 5am to fit two hours writing in before the school run is not one I’m on board with just yet. I usually get an hour or so while he has his lunchtime nap, or in the evening after both kids have gone to bed.

What advice would you give to other mums looking to work for themselves? Being able to set your own hours and be your own boss is fantastic. But you have to love what you are planning to do because chances are you’ll have to work hard and late. What I do isn’t nine to five. After a day chasing the kids around then I have to sit and write. Luckily writing is something I’d choose to do over and above most other things – so if you’re looking to work for yourself, I’d say make sure it’s something you really love – then working till midnight will seem just as fun as watching Buffy re-runs.

ELDERLY TELECARE & HELP We call your relatives to check all is well.

Plus: Shopping, Hairdressing, Errand running.

Contact us now for our Free May/June Care Call offer.

0800 612 9639 www.cheshireconcierge.co.uk

Angel’s Fury

By Bryony Pearce Published by Egmont Press (Pub date 4 July 2011) ISBN: 978 1 4052 5135 8 RRP: £6.99 I’m not normally a fan of “fantasy” stories, but I found Angel’s Fury absolutely captivating. It combines mythology, fantasy and real-life and tells the story of Cassie, a young teenager plagued by visions of a young Holocaust victim every time she sleeps. When Cassie’s sent away for treatment, she meets other children like herself, and comes to realise that she is an old soul from a past life. Teenagers will easily identify with the bullying and victimisation themes that are dealt with here, yet it’s an easy and compelling read. Highly recommended.

Reviewed by Caryl Hall

www.familiescheshire.co.uk | Families Cheshire 15

Baby matters Bring out the best in your baby from birth

As parents (and parents-to-be) we all hope that our babies will grow to be happy and confident, have lots of friends, know the difference between right and wrong, do well throughout school, and go on to be successful in their chosen path in adult life. It may be encouraging to learn that we are the strongest influence on how things will pan out for our little ones.

Research has shown that the experiences parents provide for their babies and toddlers make by far the biggest difference, compared to any other factors, to their development. In particular, the way we care for them in

their very first year has the most important influence on their academic skills, their social skills, and all aspects of their emotional development, at any time point in their life (Leach, 2010).

The first year (and the couple of years that follow) is so crucial due to the rapid brain development that takes place over this time period. Did you know that by the time a child reaches her third birthday; her brain will weigh a whopping 90% of an adult’s brain, whereas her body will weigh just 18% of an adult’s body? This period of huge brain growth, and of the associated millions of connections within it, lays the foundation for all the later skills we hope to see emerge.

Unfortunately, not just any old style of parenting will encourage this development. It is babies’ experience of sensitive and responsive care that will make the impact positive.

So what is sensitive and responsive care? This means successfully interpreting what your baby needs at any given time. Tuning in to the various ways she tries to communicate, and then responding with appropriate

comfort and care to minimise her distress, helps her feel soothed and safe. This also means providing your baby with developmentally-appropriate opportunities to learn and explore. On the face of it, these tasks may not sound too daunting. However, most parents can think of times when they have been up all night with no idea why their baby won’t stop crying, or what they should do for the best in this situation. And how on earth do you play and interact with a three week-old baby?

More than Custard is a new service that has been set up by three Chartered Child Psychologists to help you get answers to this and many more questions. It delivers a range of fun and informative workshops during pregnancy and children’s first few years, based on all the latest research on child development. The workshops will provide parents with key facts and strategies for enhancing their children’s brain development, confidence and happiness. For more information, visit www.morethancustard.com or ring 07585 668324.

Capture those early memories on camera

In that first year, babies change so quickly. As lovely as it is to see them grow and develop, it is also nice to be able to look back and remember the early days. A good photograph is always there as a lasting reminder for you as parents, for grandparents and even for your child to look back on when they get older.

Paul Moffat Portraits provide high quality professional photography that really works to get the image that you as a customer are looking for, one that really captures your child. Pre-shoot discussions ensure the studio is set up with the right props and lighting for the style you are looking for. Throughout the shoot images are instantly uploading so both Paul and you can check you are achieving what you want. There is even a ‘no obligation to buy’ policy which is based on the confidence that photographer and customer have worked together to produce something worth keeping for a lifetime.

For more information visit www.moff.co.uk or call 07970 230366.

Baby Reflexology Taught over a course of three weekly, hour long classes parents will learn how to give baby reflexology to their babies.

This promotes a calm, relaxing treatment which can help with:

Colic, wind and digestive issues

| Sleeping

| Teething

Complimentary drinks and snacks are offered at the end of each class.

This gives you the opportunity to meet, chat and swap notes with the other parents.

Classes at Wilmslow Library Thursday 11.00 - 12.30 Thursday 12.30 - 14.00 16 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

For more information www.gabbylamplughreflexology.co.uk 01625 526800 / 07817 597288

Baby matters Pacify teething babies with style

Calling all new Mums; look stylish and pacify a teething baby with GUMIGEM, the funky necklace range that’s safe for young ones to chew. Already a favourite with celebrity yummy mummy Denise Van Outen, GUMIGEM is the brain child of Jenny McLaughlin from Dundee.

A mother herself, Jenny found it impossible to wear a necklace around her baby. Her little nipper would pull and bite on anything that hung from her neck, but instead of resigning herself to a life without accessories, Jenny had a brain wave. What if she could create a pendant that was safe for baby to put in its mouth but also looked attractive?

That’s when GUMIGEM was born.

Denise Van Outen wrote: “...I’m loving this GUMIGEM teething necklace. Betsy’s really been suffering with her molars coming through and this is just the right size for her to chomp down on. Great for keeping little hands occupied when I’m holding her, too genius!”

And Families Cheshire Co-editor Jayne Keep says: “Logan and I have been trialling the GUMIGEM teething

necklace and both of us love it. I had given up wearing necklaces as I was worried they would break with him pulling on them or that he may hurt himself as he tried to chew away. As soon as I put the necklace on he grabbed hold and put it in his mouth. I now wear it every day and he frequently enjoys chewing on it. I have had lots of compliments on how pretty it is (I have the blue heart design) and when I tell people it is actually a teether they are amazed. Even when Logan is not using the necklace I find myself squeezing it as the medical grade silicone makes it quite bendy and a bit like a stress toy!

What a fab product, it certainly gets a thumbs up from Logan and me.”

Made of medical grade silicone, the GUMIGEM is baby safe, non toxic, and suitable for sterilisation or a dishwasher – basically meeting the same standards as any other teething item. Plus, with a breakaway clasp, even the strongest of little people won’t end up strangling their mummies.

The perfect gift for new mums, GUMIGEM necklaces come in a range of designs and are affordably priced between £8 and £10.50. Visit www.gumigem.co.uk to purchase.

Baby and Toddler Food Bible

By Amanda Ursell Published by Hay House Publishers RRP £10.99 I picked this book up expecting it to be just another weaning guide with a bunch of recipes that would require ingredients that I would not find in my cupboards, but I was pleasantly surprised. The book is actually an in depth guide to children’s nutritional needs through the first four years with some real good advice and information for parents. After reading this

I can now see where I went wrong with my fussy eating middle child and I feel better equipped to address her issues.

Amanda also covers off allergies and intolerances; the organic food debate; weaning; healthy shortcuts when there is just not the time to start a meal from scratch (hmm that would be quite often then!). She even has a chapter in there for mum’s nutrition through pregnancy, breast feeding and losing weight whilst remaining healthy. Certainly a book worth reading as well as using for the recipes.

Reviewed by Jayne Keep

SPECIAL OFFER FOR FAMILIES CHESHIRE READERS: Get 20% off GUMIGEM necklaces – just quote discount code FCM20 when placing your order.

www.familiescheshire.co.uk | Families Cheshire 17

Baby matters Reflexology and babies When a new arrival comes there are some absolutely wonderful moments.

The first time they open their eyes and look at you, their first smile, their first giggle. But the good days can sometimes be mixed with a few challenging ones. Baby Reflexology can help with many of the troubles experienced in the first few months of your baby’s life. And if you’re the lucky one with the angelic baby, it’s a lovely way to bond and spend some special time with them.

Reflexology is a complementary, holistic therapy which works on the premise that there are reflex points on the feet, hands and ears. These reflex points correspond

to all of the different parts of the body, so by working over the feet, many aches and pains can be soothed. Baby Reflexology is a special adaptation of adult reflexology which can help to calm, soothe and improve the baby’s sleep patterns, also to help improve digestive issues such as wind, colic and reflux. It does this by working the reflex points found on the feet, in just a 5 minute treatment. Baby Reflexology can have almost immediate results. So, a great benefit is that once you have learnt the techniques you can carry out a fuss-free five minute treatment at any time or location, in a cafe, on a bus, or even in a supermarket queue!

Baby reflexology is taught by Gabby Lamplugh, BA (Hons), GJC (Dip. Reflex), MAR who is a qualified reflexologist and specialises in fertility, maternity and baby reflexology. There are three, weekly, hour

long classes where parents are taught how to use the special, gentle techniques.

Parents can adjust the treatment to suit their own child’s needs. After each weekly class, tea, coffee and cakes are provided to give parents an opportunity to chat and swap notes.

Classes are held at Wilmslow Library on Thursdays, 11am-12.30pm and 12.30pm-2.00pm. For more information and to book your place, please call Gabby Lamplugh on 07817 597288 or 01625 526800. www.gabbylamplughreflexology.co.uk Gabby is also available for private reflexology treatments to aid fertility issues (including supporting IVF/IUI treatments), to ease some of the aches and pains in pregnancy, even to help trigger the onset of labour when a baby is overdue.

Osteopathy for babies and children

By Gemma Irvine BSc (Hons) Ost. Med. D.O. N.D. MSc Paediatric Osteopathy During the birth process, a baby is squeezed by contractions and has to perform several twist and turns. Luckily babies are designed to adapt to these forces in a process called “moulding”.

When it doesn’t quite go to plan...

Cranial Osteopaths believe that certain factors can increase these moulding forces on a baby’s head and body.

Slow labours: Longer labours expose the baby’s body to prolonged moulding forces.

Fast labours: Don’t allow the baby’s body enough time to gradually mould to the birth canal.

Malpositioning: If the baby isn’t in the correct position they need to attempt additional twists and turn more or they

18 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

can become stuck. Ventouse, forceps or C sections may be required to ensure the safe delivery of the baby.

Nature cleverly provides babies with a way to relieve these compressions and strains. However if the stresses have been considerable this process may be incomplete.

As children grow, bumps, falls and growth spurts can cause further strains in the body.

What is Cranial Osteopathy?

Cranial Osteopaths recognise the importance of subtle changes in body mechanics and their impact on how the body functions. They use gentle and subtle pressures anywhere on the body to relieve such tensions and strains.

Gemma Irvine is registered with the General Osteopathic Council (www.osteopathy.org.uk). She has a Masters Degree in Paediatric Osteopathy and is one of only a few Osteopaths in the North West qualified to this level.

She has trained at The Osteopathic Centre for Children. Gemma also enjoys using soft tissue, mobilisation and cranial techniques to help adults with back pain, muscular aches and pains, sciatica, sports injuries and much more.

Contact her on 07921 066132 or irvinegemma@yahoo.co.uk.

Baby matters Sleep through dawn (and way beyond!) By Dawn Kelly, Baby & Child Sleep Consultant ©Pascal Montsma

It’s springtime with summer just around the corner. The birds are tweeting bright and early in the mornings and bedrooms are filled with light and inviting sounds from outside in the evenings. When the sky is bright and the world is noisy, it takes children longer to fall asleep and it is harder for them to stay asleep in the morning.

Sunlight & melatonin Sleep problems and an abundance of sunlight can go hand in hand because sunlight can interfere with the body’s natural sleep process. We produce

melatonin, a hormone, to help bring on sleep but exposure to light reduces melatonin production and makes it more difficult to fall asleep. The same happens in the morning. A reduced amount of melatonin wakes you up. Thus, the summer sun can interfere with melatonin production and create sleep problems for children by preventing sleep at night and encouraging an earlier than necessary wakening. So keep up those heavy winter curtains or use darkening/blackout blinds to allow the body to produce good amounts of melatonin.

Noisy evenings Sleep problems that children experience in the summer can also be related to the sounds of summer. Evening traffic, lawn mowers, chirping birds, and the chatting of grown ups on the patio can make it difficult for children to settle down for sleep.

How can they sleep when they feel they are missing out on so much outside? One rather novel solution is to use a white noise machine to create a constant, soothing sound that will block out all the interference that would otherwise prevent sleep. Sometimes referred to as relaxation machines or soundscape machines, such devices are plugged in and create a soothing constant sound that will mask environmental noise. If it’s particularly warm, it may be better to keep windows closed to block out the noise and use a fan to keep the room cool (they also produce their own white noise!).

Predictable bedtime routine Children thrive on predictability and this is truer than ever at bedtime. Every parent knows the importance of bedtime consistency with babies, but the rituals often seem to diminish as children get

older and especially in summer when we want to make the most of any sunshine!

Sleep problems can improve when the buildup to bedtime is the same each night.

Try establishing (or re-establishing) a bedtime routine. A typical routine may be: Taking a bath or shower; Brushing teeth; pyjamas on; bright lights off, dim light on; into bed; story & cuddle. What the routine consists of is irrelevant but it should be the same every night.

Make the most of better weather Packing more physical activity into the day may also help. Let them run riot in the garden or schedule trips to local playgrounds, take long walks, and spend time swimming to help tire children out so that they are ready for bed at night. But try to allow around an hour to relax and unwind before bedtime.

Seek help if necessary If your little one is not sleeping well it affects the whole family in so many ways.

There are lots of gentle techniques that work brilliantly. If you need some support and guidance please contact Dawn Kelly on 07842 021210 or visit her website www.SleepThroughDawn.co.uk or email her at info@SleepThroughDawn.co.uk.

www.familiescheshire.co.uk | Families Cheshire 19

Baby matters Weaning – parent led or baby led? ©Alfonso Romero

These days, parents not only worry about when to wean but also how to wean. At around the recommended age of 6 months, babies are able to sit in a high chair, pick up food, and put it in their mouth and chew and swallow it. This has meant that the stages of pureeing and mashing foods up into easily sucked and swallowed foods can be very short, or for some babies, missed out altogether.

The key principles of baby led weaning are: • Baby decides when and how to start eating solids • It cuts out the stages of mashing/ pureeing before eating ‘real’ food • It allows baby to explore foods by feeling, tasting and testing If you are looking to try this technique with your baby there are some key points that let you know if he is ready: • Baby must be at least 6 months old • Needs to sit with minimal support • Is able to reach out, grab things and

Plagiocephaly awareness week Plagiocephaly 16-22 May 2011awareness week 16 – 22 May 2011 Plagiocephaly or ‘flat-head-syndrome’ Plagiocephaly or ‘flat-head-syndrome’ as it is more commonly known, as it is more commonly affects around one in 30known, babies in affects one in 30 babies inthe the UK.around Plagiocephaly describes the UK. Plagiocephaly describes deformational asymmetry on onethe deformational asymmetry part of an infant’s head. on one part of an There is infant’s currentlyhead. no treatment There on is currently available the NHS no andtreatment many babies available the NHS andIt many babiesto are going on undiagnosed. is essential are going undiagnosed.

It is essential treat babies as soon as possible to to treat babies as soon shape as possible to correct the irregular and prevent correct theinirregular problems later life.shape and prevent problems in later Awareness life.

Plagiocephaly Week is Plagiocephaly Week being launched byAwareness Technology in is being launched Motion who will by beTechnology hosting freein‘Heads Motion whofor will be hosting freefriendly ‘Heads Up’ events parents in baby Up’ events for parents baby friendly venues across the UK. in Locally, the event venues across will be held onthe 16 UK. May Locally, at the the event will be held on 16 at the Kids kidsunlimited nursery in May Manchester Unlimited nursery in Manchester city

city centre (St. Mary’s Courtyard/St. centre Mary's Courtyard/St. Mary's Mary’s(St. St, Manchester M15 5WB).

St,This Manchester 5WB). informalM15 and fun session will be informal and funwho session be runThis by expert clinicians can will answer run by expert clinicians who can answer questions, conduct preliminary questions, conduct preliminary examinations and discuss the treatment examinations and discuss the treatment available. Technology in Motion will available.

Technology Motion also publish the ‘Headsin Up Threewill Step also publish the ‘Heads Up Three Step Guide’ to spotting Plagiocephaly, which Guide’ spottingonline.

Plagiocephaly, which will be to available willThe be PlagioCare™ available online.

Charitable Trust Charitable Trust willThe be PlagioCare™ launched by Technology in will be launched

by Technology in Motion during Plagiocephaly Awareness Motion Plagiocephaly Week toduring help finance treatmentAwareness for Week to help finance treatment forwill Plagiocephaly.

Fundraising packs Plagiocephaly. packs will be available withFundraising initiatives happening be available with initiatives happening across the country. across the country. www.ossur.co.uk/clinical-services/ plagiocephaly/plagioawarenessweek.

20 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

By Independent Health Visitor, Rosie Gay (www.rosiehealth.com) put them in his mouth • Gnaws on toys and makes chewing movements Parents can often commonly mistake other signs of readiness for weaning such as baby waking in the night, being a small or a big baby, watching parents eating food. The list above is a much more reliable set of signs to look for.

So if you decide to give the baby led weaning approach a try, what can you expect? A mess! Be prepared with plastic mats under the highchair and long sleeved, cover all bibs. As frustrating as it may be, the mess is important, Babies benefit from exploring the food and working out how to get it to their mouth.

You can also expect meals to take a long time, chewing is a slow process with no or just a few teeth. Many babies gag initially. They have a stronger gag reflex than an adult which is designed to protect them from swallowing foods which are too large. Don’t panic. Babies usually cope well and either spit it out or chew more until it is safe to swallow.

Many parents worry about the risk of choking. Serious choking is rare and most babies will cough up something that went down the wrong way. To minimise the risk of choking, ensure

baby is sitting upright and offer soft, small fruits cut up with pips/stones removed. Harder fruits like apples should be offered in large pieces that baby can grasp and gnaw on. Very importantly, never leave baby alone with food.

Of course not all foods can be eaten with fingers, so spoon feeding with yoghurt, porridge etc is still an option if you are mainly following the baby led method, Similarly, if you are mainly parent led weaning, it is important to offer finger foods as well. With both methods, it is great to offer your baby a spoon to hold and as soon as they can manage it, pre-load it with food and watch them attempt to get it into their mouth!

So what foods do you use? It is a good idea to offer them something that you are eating at the same time, as babies love to copy. For a list of things to avoid, check out the NHS Birth to 5 book or for some suggestions/recipes try The Baby Led Weaning Cookbook by Gill Rapley and Tracey Murkett.

The most important thing to remember is that meal times should be fun however the food is being presented. Try to share your meal times with your child and show them how you chew and enjoy your food. Bon appetit!

It’s all just simply black and white

Babies’ brains don’t work quite the same as adults. There is so much going on in this new world that their brains can become completely overwhelmed.

Newborns can see from birth, just not as clearly as an older child or adult. In their first months, before babies learn to grasp objects or sit up, they will appreciate things that they can look at or listen to. Their vision is fuzzy at first and they fix on things that are only about 8 to 10 inches from their eyes. Until your child is about six months of age, they will respond best to bold, contrasting colors and graphics. That’s why it’s important to provide your baby with toys that feature the visual extremes of black and white. It is thought that high contrast provides the baby with something simple and engaging to focus on, and in this focus – or intense concentration – they can allow their minds to rest.

Research proves: • Black and white encourages early recognition and infant visual stimulation.

• Babies see high contrast images first, particularly those in Black and White.

• Infants reflexively prefer to look at highcontrast edges and patterns.

• Objects with patterns having 100% contrast (that is, black-on-white) are the easiest for newborns and young infants to see, improving early recognition.

At kidsunlimited day nurseries they set aside sections in the baby rooms that focus on black and white high-contrast toys and playmates, which are designed to help your child to pick out the differences in shapes and patterns, stimulating his visual development.

To find your nearest kidsunlimited nursery, go to www.kidsunlimited.co.uk.

Baby matters The amazing benefits of baby swimming: puddle ducks... life but swimmingly Baby swimming is one of the most amazing experiences you can share with your baby – it’s a wonderful way to bond, helping you both feel relaxed and confident in the water. Babies can be taken swimming from birth and Puddle Ducks welcomes babies into their classes from as young as a few weeks.

They love the freedom, massage and gentle exercise that the water offers.

Puddle Ducks classes teach children to swim, be safe and have fun in the water.

Engaging a child’s natural ability and affinity with water, Puddle Ducks swimmers develop confidence in water in a natural way. In baby swimming classes, infants enjoy freedom of movement, relaxation and bonding, whilst in the toddler classes, children gain confidence and water safety skills. In all swimming classes a child learns to swim without armbands and with grace and efficiency.

Puddle Ducks teachers love the fun they have whilst teaching babies and children to swim in a safe and friendly environment. Many of their Puddle Ducks are able to swim at least 10m unaided by the time they start school... and all of them love swimming for life.

Children can join Puddle Ducks at any age from birth with classes specific to age and ability. Each class is a carefully balanced

set of activities including group and individual work, swimming, submersion, floating, songs and games.

As well as the new classes at Mottram Hall Hotel and Lymm Leisure Centre they also teach classes in Northwich, Alsager, Delamere, Runcorn and Warrington.

For more information contact 01477 410080 or email midcheshire@puddleducks.com.

Office Hours are Mon-Thurs 9.15am2.45pm, Friday 9.15am-12.00 Midday.

Further details can also be found at www.puddleducks.com.

Puddle Ducks teachers think they have the best job in the world! They hope that your experiences with Puddle Ducks Mid-Cheshire are wonderful and that you enjoy every minute of lessons.

SPECIAL OFFER FOR FAMILIES CHESHIRE READERS: any Families Cheshire reader who books into either Lymm Leisure Centre or Mottram Hall Hotel classes for the Summer Term. (May – July) will be eligible for a 10% discount – please quote FCSum11 when booking in with the office.

What is your baby saying to you?

Ella signing ‘bird’

There are few things as frustrating for a parent as not knowing what their baby needs. Faced with a crying baby, what mum or dad hasn’t implored “What is it? Your nappy? You’re tired? You’re hungry?” Now imagine that, with a simple hand gesture, they could actually communicate to you that yes, milk is what they need!

That’s why parents all over the country are turning to TinyTalk Baby Signing classes to start communicating with their child before they can talk.

From an early age a baby’s understanding often outreaches their ability to communicate.

Between the ages of 6-9 months old, babies start linking words to objects, but their vocal cords, tongue and mouth muscles are not developed and coordinated enough to talk and be understood until they are approximately 12-18 months old. Frustration can take hold

as both parents and child struggle to understand each other. This frustration can lead to tantrums causing upset to both the parents and the child.

We already use gesture as a natural part of our language. By building on this and teaching some simple signs from BSL, babies as young as 6 months old are able to start expressing their wants and needs or their excitement at seeing lots of ducks in the park!

Some parents worry that by using baby signing their child’s speech will be delayed.

This is not true and in reality it is often the opposite. Baby signing can help bridge the gap between understanding and being able to speak, thus providing the child with the opportunity for early communication skills and giving them the building blocks on which to structure their developing spoken language.

Through TinyTalk’s special mix of signing, singing and sharing stories, you can discover a fun way of communicating with your baby plus have the opportunity to have an invaluable insight into your baby’s thoughts.

TinyTalk baby signing classes are available nationally. To find out more about baby signing or to find a class near you, have a look on their website www.tinytalk.co.uk.

Ever thought about the levels of radiation your baby is exposed to?

By Patty Hemingway, RMANM Did you ever realise that your cordless baby monitor emits radiation? That your cordless (DECT) phone is like one of those dreaded masts, acting as a transmitter? You can’t see it but electromagnetic radiation is all around.

Have you ever thought whether it might be harmful to your baby? It’s never too soon to find ways to protect your baby from ElectroMagnetic Radiation (EMR) produced by wireless devices and mobile phones. In the same way that you can choose how to use this technology safely, you can also choose to create a safe zone for your baby at home.

No official safe levels for babies The current international safety limits for exposure to EMR radiation are measured in relation to the heating effect that microwave radiation (for this is indeed the type of radiation that comes from wireless devices) has on a fully grown, thick skulled, adult male, i.e. not on a baby, which has a much thinner skull! These safety limits refer only to the tissue heating effect, and take no account of the more subtle effects on health, which can arise from radiation: disruption to the central nervous system, heart rate, skin sensitivity and dysfunction at a cellular level causing a range of symptoms. There are NO safe levels of radiation for babies and small children.

The Stewart Report in 2000 recommended the precautionary principle in relation to mobile phones and children; the Bioinitiative report in 2007 declared that safety thresholds are far too high; and in February of this year a new consensus statement was issued by the SELTUN Scientific Panel urging the adoption of significantly lower exposure standards based on the latest body of evidence for biological harm.

So what can you do to make sure your baby is safe?

When you are at home you can create a completely safe environment for your baby to grow and develop naturally. By eliminating wireless radiation from your baby’s environment you will be rewarded with a contented baby with better sleep patterns, fewer skin problems such as eczema, and improved cognitive development.

Physicians working with autistic children have proved that children living in an EMR-free environment 24 hours a day respond faster to treatments than those given the same therapies, but who are not protected from EMR. Dr Dietrich Klinghardt goes further, and observes that autism can be linked to the mother’s exposure to EMR during her pregnancy (in an interview for ES-UK). Perhaps they know about this in China where a protective apron is available for pregnant women.

If you are not sure it is safe, why take the risk? Better be safe than sorry Recent research has found that children who are exposed to mobile phone radiation in the womb, and who have used one themselves are 50 % more likely to develop behavioural problems.

If you are pregnant or want to be, ensure that your sleeping environment is EMR free. Switch off mobile phones, wireless routers, electric blankets or anything electronic, to avoid winking LED lights which can disrupt the sleep hormone, melatonin. Pregnant women should not carry their phones next to their bodies, (as recommended in mobile phone instruction booklets!). Mobile phones should not come to rest anywhere close to the baby’s body, not in the pram, not in your pocket, etc.

Simple but effective solutions I hear parents protest that they have no choice but to use their cordless DECT phone while feeding their infant, or that microwaving baby foods is essential. A moment’s reflection on how this was done as recently as 10 years ago will remind us of the alternatives. Standing a bottle in a jug of warm water will safely heat formula milk without degrading its nutritional value.

If you need to phone in the baby’s room, or from your favourite feeding chair then simply invest in a wired telephone! Then either buy an extension cable or get an additional phone socket installed by your phone company. Make use of the speakerphone facility when you need to be hands-free.

Choose low-radiation or analogue baby monitors. Warnings were issued a few years ago about the problems with some wireless baby monitors, and parents reported that their baby seemed to be restless and unable to settle, or even in pain when it was switched on. If mobile phones can produce headaches in adults, there is every reason to wonder whether a wireless baby monitor might not have a similar effect when placed near a baby’s head.

Low energy light bulbs (compact fluorescent lights) also emit radiation.

For more information about creating a safe environment for your baby see: www.buildingbiology.net.

Patty Hemingway (RMANM) is a family homeopath with a special interest in electromagnetic radiation sickness. www.pattyhemingway.com or tel: 020 8333 0413.

If you have a question on this issue and want to talk with Patty and EMR experts, or simply talk with other parents, please go to Families Forum: www.familiesonline.co.uk/radiationtalk.

www.familiescheshire.co.uk | Families Cheshire 21

What’s on Summer Fairy & Hero Camp 2011 Children across Cheshire will be delighted to hear that Yorkshire’s famous Summer Fairy & Hero Camp is returning to the county this summer.

The highly popular Fairy and Hero camps are a new concept of holiday workshops being held around Britain.

Director and creator of the Fantasy Kids Clubs, Suzanne Kaye-Vaughan explained: “The camps allow children to learn about their favourite characters and develop skills in singing, dance, drama, crafts and sports.

“It is sometimes hard to find fun and educational activities for children to do

during the holidays, especially for children as young as three or four years old.

“Each five-day workshop is designed to be a week full of magical fun for the children attending. It runs from 9am-3pm daily and finishes with a graduation show for family and friends to attend.

“Our workshops have been such a big hit with the children and parents – we have even had children travelling from London, Holland and Germany to attend workshops in Yorkshire.”

“The camps were so well received in Alderley Edge last year that here at Fairy & Hero HQ we’re getting very excited

about returning again this Summer.”

The 2011 Cheshire-based Summer Fairy & Hero Camp will be held at The Ryleys School, Alderley Edge from the 15th to the 19th August. Other locations include Leeds, Harrogate and Wakefield, Shrewsbury, and London. If your little one wishes to train to be a Fairy or Hero, or wants to brush up on the skills they learnt last year, contact Suzanne now to book them a place! *For more information about Summer Fairy & Hero Camp contact 01924 281365 or visit the website: www.fantasykidsclubs.co.uk.

NCT Nearly New Sales East Cheshire Saturday 7th May 11am - 12.30pm £1 entrance Wilmslow United Reformed Church, Chapel Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 1PR Please don’t bring pushchairs or shopping bags. There will be a coffee and cake stall outside the venue.

Northwich and District Sunday 5 June 2011 2 - 3.30pm. (1.45pm admission for NCT members on production of a valid membership card) £1 entrance Winnington Park Recreation Club, Park Road, Northwich CW8 4EB Due to fire regulations and lack of

WIN FAMILY TICKETS TO TATTON PARK’S MEDIEVAL FAYRE

©David Lawless

Witness the 13th Medieval Fayre at Tatton Park’s Old Hall. Men at arms, archers, gunners and a rag tag army of hangers-on promise an exciting and atmospheric event, with much to do and see, hear and smell, drink and eat. Hundreds of re-enactors and over 40 authentic merchants and skilled artisans complete a travelling fair. Wonder at the royal encampment and entourage and quake in the presence of His Majesty the King. Each day ends with a spectacular finalé battle.

The Fayre takes place on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 June from 11am-5pm (last entry 4pm), and we’ve got 5 family tickets to give away. Don’t miss this chance to get caught up in history!

Enter online at www.familiescheshire.co.uk – entries close Tuesday 7 June. Full terms and conditions are available online.

Normal park entry charges apply. For more information go to www.tattonpark.org.uk or call 01625 374400.

22 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

space, no prams or pushchairs can be admitted. There will be a buggy park outside where you can leave your buggy at your own risk.

Quality used Spring/Summer children's (0-11 years) and babies' clothes, toys, books, CDs, DVDs, cots, prams/pushchairs and nursery equipment will be on offer.

Half Term activities at The Cheshire Miniature Pony Centre (at Cheshire Pony Parties) Open Afternoon: Tues 31 May 2½ hours of informal pony fun – meet all the ponies, groom, pony quiz, short ride included, Ages 2-12* Pre-bookings online only £5.50 per child, £4.00 per adult Kids holiday activity: Wed 1 June 1½ hours of pony pampering, riding and stable chores!

Ages 4-12* Private bookings ages 2-12 – please contact us to arrange-groups of 5-8 children, £15.50 per child If you fancy a private group booking for kids holiday activities or a private pony experience, call Amanda to arrange a suitable date/time on 01829 741919 or email her at amanda@CheshirePonyParties.co.uk *to ride, children must be under 5 feet tall and under 7 stone.

Foodies Festival Fun Foodies Festival is a three day food and drink festival coming to Tatton Park on May 20-22. Michelin-starred and top chefs from the area will cook their favourite seasonal dishes live in the Chefs Theatre, sharing culinary secrets and passing on hints and tips. Visitors can take part in the pop-up Cook School, where they will enjoy hands-on cooking and tasting sessions, with guidance from top chefs and food experts. For budding young chefs the Cooking with Kids Theatre allows them to get messy and try new cooking experiences. The Drinks Masterclass Theatre will host mixing and shaking, nosing and tasting sessions where visitors are led though the complexities of gin, rum, speciality beers, wine and cocktails. Over 100 exhibitors will showcase the finest local, seasonal produce and speciality food and drink.

Visitors can sample and buy whilst meeting artisan producers. A dedicated ‘Free From’ Marketplace will introduce visitors to these products, with tasting sessions and advice on living a gluten, dairy or allergy free lifestyle. Visitors can indulge in dishes from around the

world in the Restaurant Village, accompanied by a glass of bubbly or seasonal cocktail from the stunning Bar Pagoda Tents, whilst enjoying a line up of live music entertainment.

SPECIAL FAMILIES CHESHIRE OFFER Families Cheshire readers can take advantage of 2 tickets for the price of 1 for parents and free entry for under 16’s when accompanied by an adult.

Simply quote foodies241 when booking online at www.foodiesfestival.com or on 0871 230 5573.

What’s on

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

Activities Sat 7 May

Blakemere Craft Centre Step Back in Time World War II Charity Day 10am-5pm, Free admission and parking

Romany Memorial Gardens, South Drive, Wilmslow Romany Open Day 12-3pm Drop in. Children must be accompanied.

Tatton Park American Civil War at the Old Hall 12-5pm, Adults £5, Children £3, Family £13.

Sun 8 May

Mon 30 May

Brereton Heath LNR Roughing It 10am-1pm, Age 8+ (must be accompanied) Booking essential: 01625 383777

Tues 10 May Tatton Park Park Perambulation 10.30am-12.30pm, Age 8+, £6 Normal admission charges apply Booking essential: 01625 374 428 Chester Zoo Barnado’s Big Toddle 10.30am, Age: under 5s Normal Zoo entry charges apply – free entry for registered toddlers

Fri 13 May Quarry Bank Mill Go Batty!

5pm & 7.30pm, Adults £5, Child £2.50 including a bat biscuit, Booking essential

Fri 20 May Quarry Bank Mill Go Batty!

5pm & 7.30pm, Adults £5, Child £2.50 including a bat biscuit, Booking essential

Fri 20 – Sun 22 May Tatton Park Foodies Festival £10 (accompanied under 16’s free).

Ticket valid all weekend.

Normal admission charges apply

Sat 21 May Tegg’s Nose Visitor Centre Geology at Tegg’s Nose Country Park 11am-3pm, Age 5+ (must be accompanied) The Village Hall, Mottram St. Andrew SK10 4QP Cheshire Tortoise Day 10am-4pm, Adults £2, Children free

Sun 29 & Mon 30 May

Tatton Park Sheep Shearing at the Farm 12pm-5pm (last entry 4pm) Normal admission charges apply Grosvenor Museum, Chester (Newstead Gallery) Make a Mosaic 2-4pm, Free, drop in

Tues 31 May Grosvenor Museum, Chester (Newstead Gallery) Victorian Peg Dolls 2-4pm, Free, drop in

Wed 1 June Lyme Park Paper Makers 1pm-3pm, Age 6+, £3 per child (Normal admission charges apply) Grosvenor Museum, Chester (Grosvenor Museum Galleries) Crime & Punishments in Victorian Chester 11-4pm, Free, drop in

Wed 1 & Thurs 2 June Weaver Hall Museum, Northwich Glittering Gliders 10am-4pm, Free. Normal entry charges apply. Children must be accompanied.

Thurs 2 June Tatton Park Viking Morning 10.30am-12.30pm, Age 8-12, £8 Dunham Massey Little Green Fingers 12-4pm, Free event – Garden ticket required.

Grosvenor Museum, Chester (Newstead Gallery) Victorian Houses 2-4pm, Free, drop in

Fri 3 June

Tues 7 June

Grosvenor Museum, Chester (Newstead Gallery) Create a Costume 2-4pm, Free, drop in Dunham Massey Bugs and Beasties Park Walk 11am, 1pm, 3pm Free event – normal admission charges apply

NT yard behind Wizard Restaurant, Macclesfield Road, Alderley Edge Down the Mines!

7-9.30pm, Age 6+ (must be accompanied) £8 per person. Booking and payment in advance essential: 01625 383777

Sat 4 June Ranger Centre, West Park, Macclesfield Minibeast Safari 10am-12pm, Adults Free, Children £1 Booking and payment in advance essential: 01625 383777

Sat 4 & Sun 5 June

Wed 8 June Lyme Park Paper Makers 1pm-3pm, Age 6+, £3 per child Normal admission charges apply

Sat 11 June Romany Memorial Gardens, South Drive, Wilmslow Romany Open Day 12-3pm, Drop in.

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Tatton Park Classic and Performance Car Spectacular with Giant Cheshire Autojumble 10am-4pm Adults £7.50, Children under 12 free.

Car entry charge applies.

Gulliver’s World Teddy Bear’s Picnic £1 discount off admission per person per teddy Beeston Castle Knights, Lords & Ladies 11am-5pm, Car Parking charge applies Tatton Park Sheep Shearing at the Farm 12pm-5pm (last entry 4pm) Normal admission charges apply Grosvenor Museum, Park & Amphitheatre, Chester This is Deva 11-4pm (Museum: Sun 1-4pm) Free, drop in

Macclesfield Riverside Park Countryside Taster Day Outdoor excitement and challenge for all people with disabilities Booking essential: 01625 374790

Sun 5 June

Sat 18 June

Brereton Heath LNR Brereton Heath Bioblitz 10am-2pm Age 7+ (must be accompanied) Booking Essential: (Tina) 07870 804413 The Kingsway Lower School, Cheadle Kids Car Boot & Swap Shop 10am-12.30pm Table costs £10 Entrance 50p

Lyme Park Fabulous Fathers 1pm-3pm £5 per child, Normal admission charges apply

Sat 11 & Sun 12 June Tatton Park Sheep Shearing at the Farm 12pm-5pm (last entry 4pm) Normal admission charges apply

Sun 12 June Jubilee Cafeteria, Queens Park, Crewe Young Person Planting Day 2-4 pm, Children must be accompanied by an adult

Wed 15 June

Sat 18 & Sun 19 June Tatton Park Medieval Fayre at the Old Hall 11am-5pm (last entry 4pm), Adult £6, Child £3.50, Family £16. Normal car entry charge applies

Sat 28 May Chorley Village Hall, Knutsford Road, Wilmslow The Engine Shed – train club aimed at children on the autistic spectrum 12.30pm, Free, but advance booking essential.

Sat 28 – Mon 30 May Little Moreton Hall, Congleton Games Galore 11am-4pm, Normal admission charges apply

Sun 29 May Alderley Edge Festival Hall Kids Car Boot & Swap Shop 10am-12.30pm Table costs £10 Entrance 50p

www.familiescheshire.co.uk | Families Cheshire 23

What’s on Beeston Castle Knights School for Dads 11am-5pm, Car Parking charge applies

Sun 19 June Quarry Bank Mill Make Father’s Day (lunch) 11am-4pm, Adults £18.50, Child £9.25 Brereton Heath LNR Family Day Out 10am-2pm, Adults £5, Children £2 Booking and payment in advance essential

Tues 21 June Gulliver’s World Barnado’s Big Toddle 10.30am, Normal entry charges apply – free entry for registered toddlers

Sun 26 June Congleton Town Congleton Food & Drink Festival 10.30am-4.30pm

Alderley Edge Festival Hall Kids Car Boot & Swap Shop 10am-12.30pm Table costs £10 Entrance 50p

Tues 28 June Tatton Park Summer Deer Walk 7.30-9.30pm, Age 8+ £6 – Booking essential

Tues 28 & Wed 29 June Rudyard Lake, Rudyard Fancy a paddle?

6.30-9pm, Age 9+ (must be ‘water confident’) £13 –Booking and payment in advance essential

Wed 29 June Tatton Park Wild Flowers & Insect Walk 10am-12 noon Age 8+ £6 –Booking essential: 01625 374428

Contact information: Barnado’s Big Toddle: www.bigtoddle.co.uk Beeston Castle: www.english-heritage.org.uk Blakemere Craft Centre: 01606 883261 / www.visitblakemere.co.uk Cheshire East Rangers: 01625 504505 / www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangers Cheshire Tortoise Day: 07891 283753 (Anne), 01260 270307 (Julia) / www.britishcheloniagroup.org.uk Congleton Food & Drink Festival: www.foodanddrinkfestival.net Dunham Massey: 0161 941 1025 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk Foodies Festival: 0871 230 5573 / www.foodiesfestival.com Gulliver’s World: 01925 444888 / www.gulliversfun.co.uk Grosvenor Museum, Chester: 01244 402033 / www.grosvenormuseum.co.uk Kids Car Boot & Swap Shop: 07748 601248 / www.kidscarbootandswapshop.co.uk Legoland Discovery Centre: 0871 222 2662 / www.legolanddiscoverycentre.co.uk Little Moreton Hall: 01260 272018 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk Lyme Park: 01663 762023 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk Quarry Bank Mill: 01625 445896 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk Tatton Park: 01625 374435 / www.tattonpark.org.uk The Engine Shed: 01565 872010 (Liz) / www.engineshedcheshire.com Weaver Hall Museum, Northwich: www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk

For a guide to what’s on at theatres in your area, go to www.familiescheshire.co.uk

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