Families Cardiff & Vale Magazine (March/April 2020)

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IN THIS ISSUE 20 ideas for spring days out How to make healthier Easter cookies Free colour-in reward chart Issue 6 March/April 2020 www.familiesonline.co.uk

email: editor@familiescardiff.co.uk

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Experience

Easter Events at The Royal Mint Experience

Spy School 4th - 7th April £5 per person or FREE when booked with a tour The mission, should your child choose to accept it, is to become a spy, evade the enemy, save the Royal Mint from the nuclear threat and escape capture!

On the day, children will: - Receive a top secret briefing - Learn code breaking skills - Retrieve the nuclear rods from the laser maze - Defuse the nuclear rods - Make ID card in order to escape The Royal Mint Suitable for children age 7+ Duration: Approximately 45 minutes

How to draw a dinosaur 8th & 15th April With Paleo-Artist Bob Nicholls £8 per person or £4.00 with a tour Learn how to draw your own dinosaur, bringing one of these amazing creatures back to life on paper.

Suitable for all ages, from 7+ Session Duration: 2 Hours Session Times: 11:00, 14:00

Time Travelling Heroes 16th – 19th April £5 per child or FREE with a tour Travel back in time with your tour guide, Dinosaur Dean, and visit Dinosauria. Can your child evade the dangers, fend off the dinosaur and help save the precious dinosaur eggs? Suitable for children 5+ Session Duration: 45 minutes Session Times: 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00

For more information and to book tickets visit www.royalmint.com/events 2 Families Cardiff & Vale

Winner of Visit Wales’ gold quality assurance award

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Cardiff & Vale Managing editor Rebecca Lewis editor@familiescardiff.co.uk 07813 955290 Head of sales Natasha Gudgeon natasha.gudgeon@familiespublishing.co.uk 07767 893807 Design: 45 Degrees Design & Print Contributors: Andrew Campbell, Tom Palmer, Claire Winter.

Next issue: May/June 2020 Booking deadline: 8 April 2020 Distribution: Families Cardiff & Vale magazine reaches 240,000 parents, grandparents and carers annually, throughout Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan. We distribute throughout key postcodes across the boroughs, and venues including primary schools, state and private nurseries, libraries, soft play centres, leisure centres and attractions, retail outlets, coffee shops and at key family events. To enquire about becoming a distributor, or taking out a private subscription, email editor@familiescardiff.co.uk.

From the editor The daffs are out, the birds are singing, and we’re leaving the house without hoods for the first time in forever. Spring is a lovely time to explore Cardiff, the Vale and surrounding areas.

There’s so much going on, with a good mix of outdoor fun and stuff to entertain us when the April showers hit. From the ever-popular egg hunt at Bryngarw Park, to the Tiger Who Came to Tea Exhibition at Dyffryn Gardens, and brand new adventures waiting at Bristol Zoo, Brecon Mountain Railway, Royal Mint and Fonmon Castle, as well as a hit circus show from NoFit State, we really are spoilt for choice. Also in this issue, you’ll find a lovely recipe for healthier Easter cookies you can make with the kids, and a free cut-out reward chart. Let your little angels pick their favourite outing from our what’s on guide, and give them a chance to earn it through behaviour goals – by completing the chart, there’s also a chance to win tickets to the zoo. Enjoy!

Rebecca Lewis, Managing Editor

Contents

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In this issue 4-5 What’s On Brilliant spring and Easter activities

10-11 Clubs & classes Sign up to swim, dance or play music

6-7 News The inside scoop on local family life

12 Early years When should babies start to talk?

8-9 Spring days out More ideas for getting out and about

13 Directory Clubs, classes and lots more

14 Easter fun Healthier chocolate cookies you can make together 16 Reward chart A free pull-out to track good behaviour!

Families Cardiff & Vale is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Cardiff & Vale are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Cardiff & Vale. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Cardiff & Vale, its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.© Families Cardiff & Vale March/April 2020.

CLOTHING, TOYS & GIFTS FROM NEWBORN TO 6YRS

READER OFFER 20% off spring/summer collection at Little People Store Nestled in the heart of Rhiwbina Village you’ll find a shop bursting with colour. Little People Store stocks Joules, Ralph Lauren and organic cotton clothing brands including Frugi, Kite and Toby Tiger. You’ll also find ethical, Fairtrade toys and gifts for babies and children, with sizes up to age 6.

In stock now you’ll find a wide range of Welsh language items including books by authors Roald Dahl and David Walliams. With complimentary gift wrapping on all items, it’s perfect for birthdays, baby showers and newborn baby gifts. There’s also a permanent sale rail for those who like a bargain.

Little People Store is offering Families readers 20% off the new Spring/Summer season of clothing. Just add the code FAM20 in the shopping cart when you visit www.littlepeoplestore.co.uk and choose ‘click and collect’ to save on postage too. Offer valid until 30th April 2020. www.familiesonline.co.uk

14a BEULAH ROAD, RHIWBINA

CLICK & COLLECT

WWW.LITTLEPEOPLESTORE.CO.UK

email: editor@familiescardiff.co.uk

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CHWARAE BY THEATR IOLO Chapter, Memo Arts and more Various March dates

THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA On Tour at Dyffryn Gardens 7 March–3 May, 10am–4pm

SIX NATIONS AT THE PAGET ROOMS Penarth 14 March, 1.30–4.30pm

Welsh-language show exploring how play helps us navigate life, as it follows a young boy as he’s catapulted from one world to another. Suitable for ages 4+.

Also at Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl and The Riverfront, Newport.

Take tea with the tiger in Sophie’s kitchen, dress up in stripes and see Judith Kerr’s wonderful artwork. Explore the Tiger Trail, play games and hunt for the tiger tails in the Arboretum. Normal admission applies.

No need to book.

Penarth Town Council will be showing the full day of Super Saturday as part of its Six Nations screenings, along with a family-friendly beer hall. This is a free event but you need to book tickets.

www.theatriolo.com/chwarae

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dyffryn-gardens

www.penarthtowncouncil.gov.uk

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COEDLAN HIGH ROPES REOPENS St Fagans National Museum of History From 4 April

BRICKLIVE IN CARDIFF Cardiff City Centre 4–19 April

NEW ANIMAL TRAIL AT THE ZOO Bristol Zoo 4–19 April

Climb, swing, balance and wobble your way through the trees, and see the sights of St Fagans from above before zipping back down to earth, as CoedLan High Ropes reopens for the season. Minimum height 110cm. Tickets from £12 per person.

PAW Patrol, Blaze and The Monster Machines are coming to Cardiff’s city centre! Fans of Nick Junior can meet their favourite characters in brick form in various surprise locations. Follow the trail for free to find each one. Suitable for 5+.

Discover zoo babies on the new trail this Easter, plus over 400 animal species including a 32-stone gorilla, and a cheeky mob of meerkats. Daily talks, feeding sessions and crafts make this a great day out. 10% off advance bookings.

www.museum.wales/stfagans

www.forcardiff.com/events

www.bristolzoo.org.uk

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THE BIG MUSEUM EASTER TRAIL Various museum locations 10–13 April, 10am–3pm

EASTER EGG HUNT Bryngarw Country Park 11 & 12 April

GRAND OPENING & JOUST Fonmon Castle 12 & 13 April, 10–5pm

Pop into St Fagans, Big Pit or the National Museum Cardiff for a unique experience solving clues to claim your egg-citing prize. Suitable for ages 4+. £3.50 per trail (one prize issued for each trail purchased).

Get crafty in the visitor centre and hunt for hundreds of chocolate eggs hidden around the park. Street theatre entertainment by the fabulous LaLaLa Productions. Children £8.50; adults & babes in arms free. Booking 01656 815995.

Travel back in time to the Middle Ages to see knights in combat and witness a medieval surgery. Explore the woods and travel even further back in time. How many prehistoric monsters can you spot in the Dino Park? Adult £10.50; Child £8.50.

www.museum.wales/stfagans

www.bryngarwcountrypark.co.uk

www.fonmoncastle.com

We strive to make sure all information is up to date, but things can change at the last minute. Please check with the venue before you leave home.

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BUTE PARK SPRING OPEN DAY Bute Park Education Centre 28 March, 10am–4pm

NOAH’S ARK TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC Cardiff City Stadium 28 March, 11am–3pm

LOVE YOUR LIBRARIES EXHIBITION Central Library Hub 2–23 April

Drop in throughout the day for wildlife garden activities for children. Visit the plant shop. Book a range of free talks, demos and nursery tours from 9th March. Find us in the Education Centre, located in Bute Park, CF10 3DU.

Bring your teddies along to this ‘koala-ty’ springtime event for a fun family day in aid of Noah’s Ark. Enjoy a disco, face painting, bouncy castle, and arts and crafts. £8 per person. Free parking. Price includes picnic.

On tour from London’s V&A Museum, this exhibition is a collection of original artworks by 12 children’s picture book illustrators, including Ben Cost and Kate Kindley. Go along and show your love for your local library.

www.butepark.com

www.noahsarkcharity.org/teddybearspicnic

www.cardiff.gov.uk

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STAR TOURS Techniquest, Cardiff Bay 4–26 April

EASTER EGG-STRAVAGANZA Bute Park Education Centre 8 April, 10am–12pm

LEXICON Big Top Tent, Cardiff Bay 8–26 April, 2.30/4pm, 7.30pm

Sit amongst the stars and learn about distant galaxies with Star Stories (under 7s) and Star Tours (over 7s). It’s your last chance to visit Techniquest before it closes briefly for an exciting new development. £1.50 plus usual entry.

Drop in and enjoy some Easter art, craft and egg-straordinary activities, exploring the joy of eggs and the wonders of spring. Free fun for all the family. Find us in the Education Centre, located in Bute Park, CF10 3DU.

NoFit State returns with a daring, free-spirited and mischievous take on contemporary circus, featuring worldclass performers. Family friendly shows last two hours (including interval).

Tickets from £14 (babies go free).

www.techniquest.org

www.facebook.com/groups/gnahcardiff

www.nofitstate.org/lexicon

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Issue 5 Janua www.families

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RHS FLOWER SHOW CARDIFF Bute Park 17–19 April

CARDIFF CHILDREN’S LIT FEST City Hall & National Museum 25 & 26 April

Explore a secret garden, discover bee-keeping, decorate pots to take home, admire planted wheelbarrows by Cardiff schools, and enjoy wonderful floral displays. Advance tickets from £13.25. Two kids go free with accompanying adult.

Calling all little bookworms, the award-winning family festival returns with an exciting new format and an inspiring programme of bestselling authors, illustrators and workshops, all taking place on one jam-packed weekend.

www.rhs.org.uk/cardiff

www.cardiffkidslitfest.com

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2020

email: editor@fami

liescardiff .co.uk

IN THIS ISSUE Fresh healthie ideas for a r family life Playtime predictio ns for 2020 Free puz zles and braintea sers! familiesonl

ine.co.uk 1

Showcase your event in our May/June issue.

Booking deadline: 8th April

Image credits: Super Saturday © Visit Wales image library. BrickLive © Brick Live Group Limited. RHS Flower Show © RHS. www.familiesonline.co.uk

email: editor@familiescardiff.co.uk

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NEWS Llanishen Fach Primary celebrates Green Flag success Llanishen Fach Primary School in Cardiff has achieved its second Green Flag Award from Keep Wales Tidy Eco Schools programme for their efforts in helping the environment.

Action Pak is back for Easter 2020 Action Pak is part of Acorns Nurseries Limited and has provided varied, fun and exciting holiday care for children since 1992. Based at Whitchurch High School, children are

split into eight different groups according to age, each group enjoying their own base room, team of staff and activities.

Age appropriate timetables are tailor-made to guarantee children are stimulated, challenged and enjoy the perfect break from school.

Camps are open from 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday each week during the Easter (6-17 April) and summer (20 July-28 August) breaks with the exception of Bank Holidays.

For bookings or enquiries www.action-pak.co.uk or 02920 382 009.

The school’s Green Team had a busy year, launching a recycling scheme in conjunction with Rhiwbina Against Plastic and Terracycle, enabling families to recycle items such as crisp packets and toothpaste tubes through the school.

The annual year 4 camp has become a more sustainable event, with pupils cutting out single-use plastics and buying supplies packaging-free from local suppliers.

Pupils keep their school tidy with regular litter picks, sorting rubbish into categories and designing posters targeting specific problem areas with advice on appropriate disposal.

Extensive work on school grounds has seen pupils create wildlife habitats, including a large pond, meadow and heritage orchard. Green Team recently showcased their improvements to conservationist and TV wildlife presenter, Iolo Williams.

Ninian Park Primary pupils explore science and magic Embracing the new Curriculum for Wales, teachers and pupils at Ninian Park Primary have been on a learning journey, asking, ‘Which is more powerful; science or magic?’

Get support with your spring resolutions Loving Being You is a brand new coaching service especially for families, created to help parents cultivate healthier habits at home.

Longer days and the reawakening of nature make spring the perfect time to set new goals. But if you need a little help along the way, Loving Being You, founded by Hannah Pekary (pictured) offers support through an interplay of coaching and mentoring, helping to close the gap between your family life now, and the family life you imagine for the future.

So, whether you want to overhaul your nutrition, family routine, wellbeing, or all the above, get in touch to find out more about our service.

For more information visit Facebook and search ‘Loving Being You’ or email Hannah@pekarydance.co.uk

Year 4 pupils began their quest by reading Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Macbeth. They went on to discover a book of magic tricks that could be explained by science, and created a science show inspired by a visit to Techniquest.

After performing in classes for their families, the entire year later presented their show to students and researchers in a lecture theatre at Cardiff University, as part of a new community link scheme initiated with the Faculty of Physics and Engineering.

This project allowed pupils to develop skills in all aspects of the curriculum, such as reading and researching, using Welsh in bi-lingual posters, presenting, and team cooperation. Performing in front of real scientists was a truly ‘magical’ experience for all involved. The school and pupils extend thanks to Techniquest, Grangetown Hyb and Cardiff University for their support.

Y Bont Faen pupils get competitive over switching off Pupils at Y Bont Faen Primary School have made a very green commitment to 2020.

Professional private tutoring with exceptional results.

Call Hannah Pekary on 07793 020 666 6

Families Cardiff & Vale

As part of their eco campaign, they have introduced a highly sought after ‘golden lightbulb’ award, which is awarded each week to the class which has used the least amount of electricity. Members of the eco committee walk around the school at break times to identify which classes have remembered to turn off their lights and interactive whiteboards.

During enrichment afternoons, the eco groups have been working hard to clear the conservation area, pulling up weeds from the grounds and pond, as well as making bird feeders and a bug hotel (pictured).

The eco committee is now busy making plans to set up a new tuck shop. They have surveyed the school to find out the most popular types of fruit and vegetables, which they will then sell.

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NEWS

Celebrate British Science Week this March The annual UK-wide celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths takes place between 6–15 March.

Parents and teachers can find local events and activities at www.sciencelive.net and download free activity packs filled with resources and ideas to try out at home or school – no science knowledge or expensive equipment required!

Over half of parents experience loneliness

To download activity packs and find details of the annual poster design competition, visit www.britishscienceweek.org

A study by charity Coram Family and Childcare has found that 56% of parents to under 5s feel lonely at least some of the time.

Loneliness affects significantly more women than men, with twice as many mothers than fathers saying they often feel left out. Younger parents are also more likely to feel the impact, with nearly 37% of parents aged 18 to 24 often feeling a lack of companionship, compared to 21% of parents aged 25 to 34.

Loneliness is most prevalent around the birth of a baby, particularly if parents are unable to get out of the house easily, and when children are older but yet to start school.

Focus groups revealed that the best way to combat isolation is to meet other parents by participating in activities that their child will enjoy, such as clubs and classes.

Join the fight against plastic in Cardiff & the Vale

For more information visit www.familyandchildcaretrust.org

Make a difference to your local environment this spring by sparing a few hours to participate in the Great British Spring Clean, taking place between 20 March–13 April.

Run by charity Keep Britain Tidy, the initiative is the UK’s biggest massaction environmental campaign and aims to get 600,000 #LitterHeroes out and about, cleaning up the environment on their doorstep.

It’s easy for families to get involved and a great way to show children how easily they can have a positive impact on their environment.

You can pledge to organise a litter-pick in your community, or join an existing event.

Find out more at www.keepbritaintidy.org/GBSpringClean

Discover National Parks this Spring This spring you and your family are invited to explore our National Parks with a range of events and activities running throughout the Easter holidays.

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Wales has three of the UK’s 15 National Parks, with Pembrokeshire Coast, Snowdonia and Brecon Beacons protecting 20% of Wales.

Events taking place from Saturday 4th April onwards to mark Discover National Parks Fortnight, include guided walks, geocaching and wildlife experiences in every park. Perfect for exploring, learning, relaxing and unwinding.

Find out more at www.nationalparks.uk/discover www.familiesonline.co.uk

Please tell advertisers you saw them in Families Cardiff & Vale Magazine.

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SPRING ACTIVIIES Enjoy the sights and sounds of days gone by this Easter Experience a unique family day out this Easter, travelling by vintage steam locomotive in all-weather coaches, admiring the views of the glorious Brecon Beacons.

Brecon Mountain Railway climbs five miles up into the Beacons, stopping briefly for you to enjoy the scenery.

Then it’s back to the lakeside café and picnic play area at Pontsticill, for more spectacular views.

At Pant, you can visit the workshops where locomotives are built and restored, and visit the gift shop and tea rooms for hot and cold drinks.

Disabled facilities include ramps, toilets and a carriage adapted for wheelchairs. Dogs welcome.

For more information visit www.bmr.wales

Experience a circus show like no other Daring acrobatics, mischievous musicians and an iconic big top tent. This is circus, but not as you know it!

UK’s most extraordinary circus company, NoFit State is returning to Cardiff Bay with its critically-acclaimed Lexicon show, a powerful performance that’s a wild celebration of the past, present and future of circus. Expect magic and laughter.

Lexicon shows take place between 8–26 April 2020, with matinees at 2.30pm or 4pm, and evening shows starting at 7.30pm. The show is two hours long including a 20-minute interval. The Big Top Tent is located on the site of the old Dr Who Experience Building on Porth Teigr Way in the heart of Cardiff Bay. Mon–Thurs: £22 Adult, £14 Concession, £55 family of 4 Fri–Sun: £26 Adult, £18 Concession, £70 family of 4 Babies on laps go free. Booking: www.nofitstate.org/lexicon

Adventures await at the Royal Mint this Easter Top secret missions and a journey back in time await children this Easter at The Royal Mint Experience. Special Agent 0019 has been deployed to protect against a nuclear threat to the Royal Mint in ‘Spy School’. The mission, should your child choose to accept it, is to become a spy, evade the enemy, save the Royal Mint and escape capture!

In ‘Time Travelling Heroes’, youngsters will be going back in time, but, be warned, there are dangers along the way. Can they fend off the dinosaur and help save the precious dinosaur eggs? And join coin designer and world-renowned paleoartist, Robert Nicholls, as he teaches you how to accurately draw a dinosaur from the inside out, bringing these creatures back to life on paper.

Registered charity no. 1104986

All this plus a chance to lift a solid gold bar worth over £400,000 and an opportunity to create your very own Iguanodon 50pence piece!

For more information visit royalmint.com/experience or call 0333 241 2223.

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SPRING ACTIVIIES

Celebrate new life at Bristol Zoo this Easter Spring is the perfect time to celebrate new life, so visit Bristol Zoo during the Easter holidays to discover the stories of some amazing animal babies on an exciting new trail. Bristol Zoo is involved in many conservation breeding programmes, working with other zoos around the world to help prevent extinction.

The new trail will see you get up close to over 400 animal species.

Marvel at a 32-stone gorilla strolling overhead in the glass-floored gorilla house, and crawl through a tunnel to pop up among a cheeky meerkat mob.

Budding environmentalists can discover even more with daily animal talks and feeds, taking place every day throughout the Easter holidays.

Little ones can get hands on with games and crafts at the Activity Centre, and head to the Terrace Theatre for daily animal encounters.

Book a day or more in advance and save up to 10% at bristolzoo.org.uk

Experience a unique family day out this Easter!

3 free ways to train for your Mini Burn Adventure Race Spring is the perfect time to book your place at October’s Family Mini Burn Adventure Race. With your goal set, use the fine weather to have fun as you train outdoors, getting ready to show the world what your family is made of this autumn.

1. Download an orienteering map from swoc.org.uk then visit your local park to spot some check points. Heath and Cosmeston Parks are great venues for this.

2. Load up the car with your bikes and head to Castle Coch,

where you’ll find rideable tracks and some steep hills for a good workout.

3. Family-friendly park runs are great ways to start your weekends.

Join Easter Bunny for a Treasure Hunt this Easter.

12–13th April.

Visit parkrun.org.uk to find your next event.

Mini Burn takes place in Margam Park on 10 October. Compete or just have fun as you navigate the course on foot, by bike and kayak.

Mini Burn is offering 40% off the registration price to the first 20 readers to sign up using code FAMILIES40.

On your marks, get set, go!

Travel by vintage steam locomotive for spectacular views of the Brecon Beacons.

This is the perfect family day out for all ages.

Tea rooms. Gift shop. Disabled access. Dog friendly.

TO BOOK...

01685 722988 • www.bmr.wales

www.familiesonline.co.uk

WHAT 5k Run, 1K Kayak, 10K Bike

Register for Mini Burn

WHEN 10 October 2020

A Family Adventure Race To Remember!

WHERE Margam Country Park All ages and abilities. Only a bike needed.

Compete or just have fun.

40% off for first 20 Families readers registering with code FAMILIES40.

4 0 % D I S C O U N T ! S PA C E S F I L L I N G FA S T !

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CLUBS & CLASSES

Fun is the key to learning piano at Forte At Forte School of Music, we specialise in teaching music classes to children. But these are no ordinary music lessons! Our highly trained teachers introduce the art of playing the piano by making it fun, interactive and stimulating in a unique approach to music tuition.

Puddle Ducks launches Swim Academy for children from birth to 10 years

In our foundation piano course, Music is Fun (3.5 – 5 years), children are introduced to the piano and start learning note names through solfege (do, re, me). Our premier beginner piano courses, Junior Keys (5 – 7 years) and Piano Keys (7 – 9 years) make learning fun, incorporating movement, singing, percussion ensembles, music theory and composition into fast-paced lessons designed to keep your child engaged and focussed.

What we offer at Forte is an exciting, engaging, unique approach to music tuition in a warm, welcoming environment that makes you feel part of something special.

Free taster lessons are now available. Come and find out how much fun learning music can be.

Find out more at www.fortemusic.co.uk

Puddle Ducks and Puddle Ducks Swim Academy teach children, from birth to 10 years, to swim independently, beautifully and confidently, and to love and respect the water.

We teach essential life skills and water safety to babies, toddlers, pre-schoolers and primary school children across South East Wales. Classes are packed full of fun – watch as your little one develops into a confident swimmer without even realising they are learning to swim! We recognise that every child is different; our expert teachers (including Helen, pictured) individually tailor activities to suit your child’s ability and confidence levels.

Our highly qualified teachers are passionate, professional, nurturing, fun and loved by our swimmers. Our innovative programme, incorporating bespoke songs and rhymes, has been developed over 15 years and is continually evolving. Swimming taught by experts…that’s the Puddle Ducks difference Find out more at www.puddleducks.com/cardiff

10 Families Cardiff & Vale

New ballet classes from award-winning Tiny Toes Tiny Toes Ballet Bridgend & Vale of Glamorgan opened its doors in January 2019 and offers adventure-themed dance classes to children aged 6 months to 7 years.

We don’t ‘just’ teach ballet – we develop movement and musicality, encourage creativity and imagination, and focus on social skills and developing a sense of self, all whilst learning about the world around us. Our story-telling approach allows children to engage, become familiar and learn through our termly theme, keeping classes relevant, engaging and fun!

In January 2020, Tiny Toes Ballet Bridgend & Vale of Glamorgan was awarded Best Arts, Literature & Dance Club of the Year in Wales, at the Wales Children’s Activities and Services Awards.

The Wales CASA is the only dedicated awarding body in Wales that recognises and celebrates businesses and people who enrich this vibrant and dynamic sector in Wales.

To keep up with demand and our ever-growing waiting list, we’re launching new spring classes.

Contact Miss Jess on 07396 347610 or jess@tinytoesballet.co.uk. facebook.com/ttbBridgend www.familiesonline.co.uk

CLUBS & CLASSES

10% discount for Families Magazine readers!

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es

ass

UC tion D The P o r t n erfect I o swimming t

Saturday Dance School in CF10.

Tap, ballet, contemporary, ballroom & Latin for adults, and boys & girls from 18 months.

Find your local class at

puddleducks.com

@puddleducks.com t: 07852 475906 e: southeastwales

HAVE FUN, GET FIT, MAKE NEW FRIENDS. www.pekarydance.co.uk

A captivating world of music and dance.

Fully integrated with the EYFS Curriculum.

For children from 6 months-7 years.

Classes in Bridgend, Porthcawl and Ystradowen.

FREE TASTER CLASSES (subject to availability)

07396347610 • jess@tinytoesballet.co.uk tinytoesballet.co.uk/bridgendvaleofglamorgan @ttbbridgend www.familiesonline.co.uk

email: editor@familiescardiff.co.uk

11

EARLY YEARS

What’s infant fussing?

Baby Love Matters is an in-home therapeutic service to support the vital attachment relationship between parents and babies, from pregnancy through to two years. Founder, Dr Orion Owen explains the science behind fussing.

When should babies start talking?

By Andrew Campbell During the first three years of life, a baby’s brain is developing rapidly. This period contains many critical milestones for speech development.

Early baby talk is non-verbal and happens soon after birth. Babies grimace, cry, and squirm to express a range of emotions and physical needs, from fear to hunger to frustration. By actively listening, parents can learn to interpret the need behind different cries, and respond accordingly.

At the age of 3 months, you’ll notice your baby listening to your voice, watching your face as you talk, and turning towards other voices, sounds and music. During this period, the best way for parents to help their babies utter those first words is to talk to them.

At around 6 months of age, your baby will begin to babble and coo, as they play around with different sounds. This baby talk is a happy, gentle, repetitive, sing-song vocalisation that sounds similar the world over, irrespective of the parents’ mother tongue.

After 9 months, babies can say and understand a few basic words like "no" and "bye-bye". They may begin to use a wider range of consonant sounds and tones as they find their own voice. Babies may be able to point to people, objects, and body parts you name for them.

For more information contact drowen@babylovematters.com.

Baby Love Matters Dr Owen phD MSc BSc has over 30 years’ experience working with parents and babies as a registered nurse, midwife, specialist community public health nurse, and researching mental health in postnatal mothers.

She provides in-home therapeutic support for parents and babies, from the antenatal period up to two years of age.

Consultations can help with...

Most babies say their first words sometime around their first birthday. At this stage, they understand what they are saying, and should be able to at least understand (if not obey) short, one-step requests like "Please put that down”.

• Managing anxious feelings and overwhelming thoughts around the health and wellbeing of your baby.

Over the next six months, your baby will use language in a more recognisable way and you may start to hear them talking.

You might find that initially only you and a few of your baby’s favourite people can make out what they’re saying. By age 2, most babies can string together short phrases of two to four words, such as "Mummy bye-bye" or "me, milk."

• Coping mechanisms for regular or prolonged periods of crying, difficulty in soothing, night time waking, feeding issues, and generally seeming unpredictable.

Over the course of the next year, your baby’s vocabulary expands rapidly, and make-believe play spurs an understanding of symbolic and abstract language like "now", feelings like "sad", and spatial concepts like "in".

It’s important to remember that individual babies develop at different rates.

For more information on important speech milestones, see the resources at www.nhs.uk and www.nct.org.uk

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Young infants have episodes of fidgeting, squirming, snuffling, snorting and panting, causing parents concern. This is infant fussing.

Such episodes occur throughout the day, including a predictable but troublesome early morning bout, usually between 3 and 5am.

Why does it happen? A baby’s nervous system continues important development well after birth. Infant fussing is a normal, healthy event and occurs when the baby’s nervous system and body are regulating to maintain a state of internal balance. It resolves as the baby matures over the first few months of life.

In the meantime, infant fussing motivates parents to check, touch and hold their baby — vital interactions that contribute to a baby’s physical and emotional wellbeing and development. Fussing behaviour is often put down to wind, colic or reflux, heightening a parent’s anxiety that their baby has a problem requiring treatment. Understanding fussing can be reassuring for parents and helps reduce anxiety.

Families Cardiff & Vale

• Understanding why babies behave the way they do, what they are communicating to you and how to respond.

Get in touch to arrange a consultation in your own home.

07470 694322

www.babylovematters.com drowen@babylovematters.com www.familiesonline.co.uk

D I R EC TO RY CLASSES & CLUBS

SWIMMING

Baby Sensory Cardiff Award-winning, sensory-rich development classes; designed to support you and your baby from birth. Regular exposure to an incredible range of sounds, smells, sights, textures, music, dance, signing and massage all help rapidly develop the brain in your baby’s first years. We’ve done the research; so you can enjoy the fun. Cardiff East classes run in Lisvane (Tues), Roath (Wed) and Whitchurch (Fri). Cardiff West classes run in Penarth (Tues) and Barry (Wed). Find out more and book at www.babysensory.com

Puddle Ducks Swimming facilitates development of crucial higher brain functions, core muscles and co-ordination. We provide fabulous, child-led lessons for children from birth to 10 years. Join any time; no need to wait for start of a term. Our highly trained and qualified teachers are experts at identifying children’s levels of ability and adapting activities to the individual, nurturing confidence and encouraging natural ability.

Lessons at Novotel Cardiff CF10 (Mon, Tues, Fri); Maes Ebbw School NP20 (Wed); DW Fitness NP20 (Sat); Mercure Cardiff Holland House CF24 (Sun, Tues); Llanhennock Lodge NP18 (Sun). Call 07852 475906 or email southeastwales@puddleducks.com. More info at www.puddleducks.com/cardiff 07852 475906 southeastwales@puddleducks.com www.puddleducks.com/cardiff

Forte School Of Music (Llandaff) Immersing little people in music has proven intellectual benefits.

Best of all, it’s loads of fun! Introduce babies to new sounds; encourage tots to explore music; develop your older child’s instrumental abilities with small classes or solo tuition. Adult lessons available. Book your free taster class.

029 2063 1340 fortecardiff@fortemusic.co.uk Hartbeeps Our award-winning classes combine an original soundtrack with a colourful array of magical props and techniques, from light effects to yoga, dance to percussion, to aid speech, language, movement, relaxation, and of course, fun! Classes run in Cyncoed (Mon), Llanishen (Tues), Caerphilly (Wed), Rhiwbina (Thurs) and Llanbradach (Fri), with parties and special events taking place over weekends.

For more information, contact your local Imaginator at lyndsey.stuart@hartbeeps.com, telephone 07880 333189.

Search for Hartbeeps Cardiff on Facebook or visit www.hartbeeps.com Pekary School of Dance We offer classes in tap, ballet, contemporary, ballroom and Latin for boys and girls from 18 months upwards, as well as adult ballet, ballroom and Latin. Join us to receive great support and expert tuition, while having fun and making new friends. Classes take place on Saturdays in term time at Freedom Church, The Warehouse, Trade Street (just off Penarth Road), Cardiff, CF10 5DT. 07793 020666. hannah@pekarydance.co.uk.

Full timetable at www.pekarydance.co.uk Shiny Happy People “Brilliant vibe. Great songs.

So much fun!”A friendly, welcoming parent/baby singing group that’s all about the mums and dads! No nursery rhymes; this hour of energising singing to rock, pop and soul will lift your spirits and soothe your baby. Classes run in Mackintosh Community Centre, Roath (Mon, 10.30), Conalfan Beulah, Rhiwbina (Mon, 13.15) and Insole Court, Llandaff (Fri, 10.00), in addition to special popup events throughout Cardiff and the Vale. £6 drop-in; £5 when booked for term. shinyhappypeoplecardiff@gmail.com Facebook @SHPCardiff. www.familiesonline.co.uk

Turtle Tots The only Cardiff swim school allowing BOTH parents in the pool, our award-winning and inspiring swimming lessons for ages 0-5 are led by the highest-qualified swim teachers, including Mamas & Papas guest speaker Colum Tiffney. We’re passionate about promoting water safety and learn-toswim skills through our child-led, unique and fun baby/toddler classes. Classes run Sat (DW Fitness, Leckwith), Sun/Mon (Ysgol Y Deri, Penarth), Tues (Miskin Manor, Pontyclun). colum.tiffney@turtletots.com 07927121233 www.turtletots.com/turtletotscardiffwest www.facebook.com/Turtletotscardiff/

PREGNANCY & POSTNATAL Pregnancy Yoga with Anita Gentle exercise supporting your pregnancy from 12 weeks to birth. You’ll follow calming sequences,controlled stretching, breath control and practice mindfulness to strengthen the connection with your baby. No yoga experience required; suitable for all abilities.

Sun (10.30-–11.30) Studio Viva, Cowbridge. £35 for block of five classes; PAYG from 36 weeks. 121 sessions available on request.

Pregnancy massage also available. Book via www.anitaevans.co.uk or call 07528 805 257.

National Childbirth Trust (NCT) Local services www.nct.org.uk/branches/Cardiff NCT Antenatal Courses: Courses available in Newport, Caerphilly, Canton, Whitchurch, Llanishen, Roath, Penarth, Cowbridge.

NCT Breastfeeding weekly drop-in support: Every Thursday 1–3pm, Ararat Centre, Plas Treoda, Whitchurch, CF14 1PT. NCT Baby Massage courses Llanishen and Penarth.

NCT Bumps & Babies group facebook.com/NCTCardiff/ Maes Y Coed Community Centre, CF14 Llanhilleth Miners Institute, Abertillery NCT Prams in the park facebook.com/NCTCardiff/ Every Thursday, Terra Nova Café, Roath Park NCT Red Cross baby first aid facebook.com/NCTCardiff/ Baby Massage & More’ with Miranda Webb A nurturing space to relax every Friday. A baby massage session followed by a group chat. We’ll have a topic each week related to you and your baby, great for early parenting. Each session is 2hrs and includes tea and cake.

This really is baby massage and more. Suitable for babies 0 to 6mths. It’s available to book as a 6-week course (£65) or drop-in sessions (£11). Every Friday, 1-3pm at Canton Uniting Church Lounge, Cowbridge Rd East, Canton.

Details and booking at www.mirandawebb.co.uk/booking.

The Nest The Nest Birth and Baby Studio in Llanishen is a safe and judgement-free zone for new mums, and home to The Daisy Foundation’s baby massage and yoga classes, run by fully-qualified and accredited perinatal supporter Laura Livingstone.

Mon 11am: baby yoga 4-8 mths; 12.20pm: baby massage/postnatal support for 0-5 mths; 1.30-3.30pm: informal drop-in coffee afternoon for mums and babies up to 2 years, £3.

Tues 1pm: baby massage.

Thurs: Coffee and chat with perinatal specialists; £6.

1pm: baby sensory play, story, rhyme for 8-18 mths). Book at thedaisyfoundation.com/ teacher/laura-livingstone/

BUY & SELL MARKETS Kidsmarkets Nearly New Sales Buy and sell a huge selection of great quality pre-loved children’s toys, clothes and baby equipment, all at a fraction of the usual price! Thousands of items for boys and girls from 0-7 years, from woollies & wellies to buggies, cots and every toy imaginable! Bring babies in carriers if possible to avoid congestion. Secondhand Stalls £18, 21st March, 11am–12.30pm, Howells School Sports Hall 26th April, 11am–12.30pm, Cowbridge Comprehensive School 2nd May, 11am–12.30pm, Howells School Sports Hall

71%...

of readers say they’re highly likely to respond to advertising in Families Magazine.

Families Cardiff & Vale reaches 240,000 parents, grandparents and carers annually. To showcase your class, club, party, workshop, open day or event in our directory, contact editor@familiescardiff.co.uk

Please tell advertisers you saw them in Families Cardiff & Vale Magazine.

13

EASTER FUN

Healthier Easter Cookies A simple make-together recipe

These are easy to make, with plenty of opportunities for the kids to get involved with mashing, measuring and mixing. They’re made healthier with the use of bananas and oats, but still offer the satisfying chocolate hit we all love!

Makes 12 Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 12 minutes

INGREDIENTS 2 bananas 3 tbsp honey 2 tbsp cocoa 150g rolled oats 80g chocolate mini eggs

INSTRUCTIONS 1 Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F), 180°C fan, Gas Mark 6. Line a couple of baking trays with baking paper.

2 Mash the bananas in a large bowl, then add the maple syrup and mix well.

3 Stir in the cocoa and oats until evenly combined.

4 Divide the mixture into 12 (about 2 level

5 Press a teaspoon into the centre of each cookie to create a nest shape.

6 Bake for 12 minutes, then cool on a wire rack.

7 Add a couple of chocolate mini eggs to the centre of each cookie.

8

Tuck in and enjoy!

tablespoons each) and roll into balls. Place them on the baking trays.

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You’ll find more great recipe ideas in Get Your Kids to Eat Anything by Emily Leary (www.amummytoo.co.uk), published by Mitchell Beazley, RRP £16.99 and available online and in all good bookshops.

14 Families Cardiff & Vale

www.familiesonline.co.uk

THIS SUMMER ACORNS ACTION PAK WILL TRANSFORM AN ORDINARY SCHOOL HOLIDAY INTO AN ADVENTURE! Ages 4-14 Easter 2020: 6th to 17th April Summer 2020: 20TH July to 28th August (Not including Bank Holidays)

Venue: Whitchurch High School, Penlline Road OPEN FROM 8AM - 6PM Monday to Friday To book visit: www.action-pak.co.uk

age groups : 4-5, 5-6, 6-7, 7-8

For children aged 4-8, each day is packed with activities such as Forest School, Mini Tennis, Football, Cookery, Crafts, Treasure Hunts and Team Games. Days out include trips to the Seaside, Farm Parks, Play Parks, Cinema and Bowling.

Age groups :8-9, 9-10, 10-11, 12+

Timetables pick up the pace for the 8 Years+ groups with activities such as the Climbing Wall, Trash Fashion, Outdoor Sports, Street Dance, Karate, Swimming, ‘The Great British Bake Off’ and ‘The Apprentice’. Trips include Cardiff International White Water, Heatherton, Wildlife Parks, Cinema and Bowling.

ACTION PAK IS PART OF ACORNS NURSERIES AND HAS PROVIDED VARIED, FUN AND EXCITING EXPERIENCES SINCE 1992 For more information visit our website www.action-pak.co.uk or telephone 07825 500 987/029 20 382009 www.familiesonline.co.uk

Please tell advertisers you saw them in Families Cardiff & Vale Magazine.

15

Day 1

Day 1

STEP 3 STEP 1 STEP 2 Tell your Fill in daily child when to Explain behaviour rewards your colour in the targets animals! child will receive

Day 2

Day 2

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t the Real Animals!

Day 3

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Reward

Reward

Reward

Email info@familiesmagazine.co.uk for extra copies of the chart!

Day 4

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How to Enter: Email an image of your child’s completed chart to info@familiesmagazine.co.uk with your child’s name, age, your postcode and up to 50 words from you or your child explaining how the chart has helped them achieve their targets. You have until 30 June 2020 to enter.

WIN Family Tickets for a day at a UK Zoo or Wildlife Park of your choice!

Tickets are valid for two adults and two children.

Visi

The Grrreat Colour-In Reward Chart

I will...

I will...

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Day 1

When I have coloured in all my animals, we can enter the competition to go to the zoo!

Competition T&Cs at www.bit.ly/37LNg7w

www.familiesonline.co.uk

16 Families Cardiff & Vale