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IN THIS ISSUE
Education Work Summer Fun Family Life
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May/June 2021
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SEE INSIDE
Familiesonline.co.uk May/June 1
2 May/June
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CONTENTS
In This Issue 4
Education
12
Summer fun
15
Returning To Your Workplace
17
Health
18
Holidays
20 Father’s Day 21
Early Years
22 Prenuptial Agreements 23 Family Life 25 Food 26 Birthday Parties
Get in Touch Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Print Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but Families Print Ltd, its distributors, franchisees and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequences thereof.
Welcome As the world opens up again, we have so many ideas for early summer fun in this issue. In this issue, you’ll also find the opportunity to win outdoor toys for summer as well as exclusive giveaways for our subscribers. If you’re not a subscriber, why not sign up now so you don’t miss out on our future subscriberonly offerings? If you’re one of the organised families who have their UK staycation booked then I’m very jealous - we’re currently considering camping in my parents back garden!
Sarah x
P.S. Our next issue will cover the school summer holidays. Book your space now! Competition Winners from our Jan/Feb issue Congratulations to Joanne Long and Jennifer Vlodyka who received subscription boxes of their choice.
WHAT WILL YOU PAINT?
@institutfrancaisecosse @ifecosse @ifecosse
PLAY & PRACTICE AT OUR SUMMER CAMPS
KEEP THE HEID AND LEARN FRENCH SUMMER ADVENTURE SAFELY DELIVERED www.ifecosse.org.uk
Birthday parties for all ages • unique gifts for all occasions • baby prints • clay imprints • gift vouchers • commissions • free tea and coffee or BYOB • 100s of colours to choose from.
29 Marchmont Cres EH9 0131 229 1399
www.doodlesscotland.co.uk
www.facebook.com/doodlesceramics Familiesonline.co.uk
Institut français d’Ecosse West Parliament Square Edinburgh EH1 1RF Contact us at 0131 285 6030 frenchclassesife@gmail.com
May/June 3
EDUCATION
Life skills beyond the classroom How many of these skills does your child have? Help them learn with these great instructional videos.
Touch typing
Repairing a bicycle puncture
Dialling 999
Basic sewing
Making a bed
Pitching a tent
Tying a shoe lace
Performing a shout and signal rescue
Managing money
4 May/June
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EDUCATION
Escape and explore Dynamic Earth!
Experience the primeval forces of nature as they shaped our planet, to journey through space and time, and even go on a 4DVENTURE around the world. Sit back and immerse yourself in the brand new, state-of-the-art, 360-degree planetarium. Limited weekend tickets on sale now!
Making science fun for kids
By Oli Ryan
Scientific processes happen all around us daily – just waiting to be discovered by curious, young scientists. Explore science with your kids outdoors, in the kitchen and even at bath time. Experiment with butter churning, toilet paper chromatography and making a rain gauge. READ MORE
Whizzkids
Computer Learning Centre
Summer Holiday Computer Courses
Touch-typing Desktop Publishing Scratch coding PowerPoint
Raspberry Pi Educational Games Computer Art
Project Creation
Inspire Theatre Workshops is a child development company, providing unique drama, dance, and singing workshops, designed to boost social and performing skills in children and young people aged 4-17. Our classes work to develop our
Word processing Spreadsheets
www.inspiretheatreworkshops.co.uk
19 Morningside Drive, Edinburgh EH10 5LZ www.whizzkids.uk.com gillian@whizzkids.uk.com Familiesonline.co.uk
Thank you for making Ruby’s start with Inspire so great. I’ve been so impressed by your sessions and the skills you are building in children and the experiences you are providing.
Emilia is LOVING your class. She is so animated when she talks about it and really can’t wait to get out on a Saturday morning. We think you are so professional and take an interested and personal approach that I haven’t seen from any other class Emilia attends or has attended -and that’s a lot!! I would recommend Inspire ten times over the others.
May/June 5
EDUCATION
Whizzkids
Institut Francais
Whizzkids is delighted to be open again and would like to wish a warm welcome to both new and returning pupils. There is lots on offer over the summer including the ever-popular Raspberry Pi and Scratch coding courses. Find out more/book.
The French Institute in Scotland draws upon 70 years of experience in Scotland offering various immersive camps during holidays for the wee ones that can boost their creativity and French skills while having fun. For full range of youth courses click here.
At Fettes Prep, we believe that happy children learn. With space, care and the expertise of dedicated staff, your son or daughter will grow up surrounded by friends and loving their learning. • Small class sizes Wraparound care (included in the fees) 12 core sports 60+ co-curricular activities • P3–P5 spaces available
www.fettes.com admissions@fettes.com
6 May/June
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EDUCATION
EDA
Inspire Theatre Workshops
EDA, recently voted highest ranked dance school in the UK and Ireland has RE-OPENED! Branches in Corstorphine, Stockbridge, New Town, Leith/ Trinity and Granton. Classes are open to everyone and trial lessons are free. email us.
Inspire Theatre Workshops provides innovative, exciting performing arts classes to children and young people. Our enthusiastic, professionally trained leaders create a safe, welcoming space in which the individuality, talents, and needs of every child are nurtured. Classes in Trinity, Merchiston, Leith, and Corstorphine. Find out more
Call today for FREE assessment
PROFESSIONAL TUITION IN MATHS & ENGLISH FOR ALL AGES CENTRES IN MARCHMONT & INVERLEITH
KIP MCGRATH EDINBURGH CENTRAL & NORTH www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/edinburgh-marchmont www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/edinburgh-inverleith indy-professional-tutors@sky.com Tel: Indy on 0131 610 6110 Familiesonline.co.uk
May/June 7
EDUCATION
DN Dance
Firetech
Start your kids adventure into a universe of tech! Holiday clubs and online clubs for ages 8 - 17 available now. Book here
An amazing team of teachers with an abundance of knowledge and experience will make the DN Dance summer clubs professional, safe and super fun for everyone! Choose from Matilda, Beauty and the Beast, Preschool club or one of their training weeks. Term time classes also running for all ages. Find out more/book
Online courses and tech camps for 8-16 year olds
8 May/June
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EDUCATION
EDUCATION
Addressing Post-Covid Learning Loss By Emma Martin As our worlds slowly open back up and children are in school once again, for many parents a key question will be how they can support their child’s learning postCovid. There has been much in the news about children being ‘behind’ and needing to ‘catch up.’ However, just as important is their emotional wellbeing, in particular connection, play, making sense of the world and resilience. By focusing on mental health, we can help our children to be in the best possible place to learn. Re-build and strengthen connections Children do need to catch up this summer – but to catch up with friends and family. Social connections have been hugely impacted by the pandemic, so it is important that we give children the time and space they need to enjoy being social again (and not just via a screen!). By giving time to rebuilding social connections, parents will be helping their child to feel good about themselves and to practice all the skills they need to help them get on with others in a positive way. Making sense of experiences One of the most important things parents can do this summer is to help children make sense of the pandemic so they don’t store Familiesonline.co.uk
concerns. We can do this by helping them to share the challenges and successes of their own ‘Covid story’ through conversations, role play or painting and drawing. Read Emma’s suggestions for helping your child process the pandemic.
Bella Learning Games
Fun educational games to download, print and play.
Reception, Year 1 & Year 2 Packs
Available Now!
For examples, tips and advice, find Bella Learning Games on Facebook and Instagram.
www.bellalearning.co.uk May/June 9
EDUCATION
EDUCATION
Addressing Post-Covid Learning Loss Cont... Let’s play! With opportunities limited during lockdown, by giving children the opportunity to play we can help them to develop their social, emotional and cognitive skills. Most importantly, play helps children to have positive thoughts about themselves which is exactly what we need to encourage right now. Nurture resilience Many people have commented on how resilient children have been during this tumultuous time. Whether your child has ridden the rollercoaster with ease or found it more challenging, placing a focus on problem solving and resilience is a sure-fire way to help your child make progress at school. One way to support your child’s ability to bounce back when things get tricky is to spend quality time doing an activity of their choice with them, whether it’s playdoh, kicking a ball about or playing a board game. By doing so, you are giving them a sense of safety and letting them know you are there for them.
Emma Martin is an educational psychologist employed full-time by E-ACT multi-academy trust. She supports the trust’s primary academies in Bristol and is coauthor of its national Relationships and Recovery Curriculum.
Let’s prioritise their wellbeing Think back to your own childhood and the things you enjoyed – being free to play, being yourself and being with friends. Let’s not give our children the message they are ‘behind,’ but instead celebrate their wonderful achievements during this tricky time. 10 May/June
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EDUCATION
EDUCATION
Books that challenge gender stereotypes Books can be purchased via Bookshop.org an online bookshop which financially supports local, independent bookshops and of which Families Magazine is an affiliate.
My First Book of Feminism
She Rex
Julie Merberg Ages 0-3.
Michelle Robinson & Deborah Allwright Ages 3+.
The Paper Bag Princess
Tough Guys Have Feelings Too
Robert Munsch & Michael Martchenko Ages 4-7.
Rebel Girls Lead: 25 Tales of Powerful Women Ages 6-9.
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Keith Negley Ages 5-6.
Love Your Body Jessica Sanders & Carol Rossetti Ages 7+.
My Daddy is a Nurse
Kerrine Bryan & Jason Bryan. Ages 2-5.
Stories for Boys Who Dare to be Different 2
Ben Brooks & Quinton Winter. Ages 9-12.
Molly on the March Anna Carey Ages 10-12.
May/June 11
SUMMER FUN
SUMMER FUN
TryOut a week at residential summer camp for just £295! This summer any child ages 9 to 15, who has never attended a residential summer camp can stay at a TryOut camp, run by experienced providers, for just £295 for a week (including accompanied travel). The initiative is organised by The Summer Camps Trust to help share with children the joys of summer camp. Camps take place at Nettlecombe Court, a magnificent Field Studies Centre in beautiful grounds near Taunton, Somerset from 8-15 August and at Camp Redwood, a fabulous tented camp in the heart of Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire from 15-21 August.
Recent UK attendees comment: ‘It was the best week of my life so far’, ‘My leader made me feel happy and safe just like my mum would do’. Parents said: ‘She came home with so many friends and memories and having had so much fun’ and ‘It was the happiest I have ever seen him’.
Get ready for games of all kinds. Explore areas of wood, hills and countryside. Enjoy tracking activities, unravel mysteries and stimulate the imagination. Participate in entertainment, songs and stories around the camp fire. Sleep under the stars, climb or enjoy water activities. Or relax and chat in the sun. Leave screens and peer pressures behind, reconnect with the natural world and with being a child again. Exactly what our children need right now.
So don’t delay, find out why summer camp is the best week of the year for millions of children worldwide. More information and booking. Or, for a brochure, email chris@summercampstrust.org
Attend a TryOut camp totally FREE! 6 places available
APPLY HERE
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Being part of a small group, looked after by a well-trained 18 or 19 year-old leader who is like an older brother or sister, can be a unique experience and help children grow in confidence, social skills and positivity. 12 May/June
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SUMMER FUN
SUMMER FUN
Making the most of the summer By Claire Winter Summer is almost here - time to start planning fun family activities! Book it! Most venues will have a booking system to avoid overcrowding and to ensure Covid-compliance. Book and arrive early. Less is more. Don’t over schedule. You will have become accustomed to less stimulation. Brainstorm quieter places to visit, or plan events on alternate days/weekends. Don’t forget the food…. Don’t get stuck in long food queues. Hungry kids and ‘hangry’ parents don’t mix. Take a packed lunch and snacks. Enjoy the spontaneous. After months of restrictions, embrace spontaneity again. Why not take a day trip to the seaside or visit somewhere new?
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For all your plant-based, vegan, vegetarian, organic, eco-friendly, sustainable and plastic-free goods.
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Check out our mini-department store for your littles ones - including shoes, hair, clothing, toys and books! 0131 225 1242 | www.treehousechildrenswear.co.uk Treehouse, 10-12 Hamilton Place Stockbridge, Edinburgh EH3 5AU
May/June 13
SUMMER FUN
SUMMER FUN
Outdoor toys for summer We asked our friends at The Good Toy Guide to put together their recommendations. You can read reviews of each toy on their site.
Walkie Talkies
Kidnoculars
Diditrike
5 in 1 Outdoor Measure Mate
Paint-a-Puzzle
First Weather Science Kit
Hop Skip Jump
Discovery Adventures Metal Detector
The JUNKO Kits
14 May/June
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WORK
WORK
I don’t want to return to my workplace… By Mandy Garner As lockdown eases, you may find yourself under increasing pressure from your employer to return to the workplace. For some, this will be a welcome relief; for others, a source of stress. If it’s the latter, what are your options? Firstly, if your reluctance to return to your workplace is due to concerns about safety, it’s important to know that, while government guidance on working from home is likely to change, businesses will still have to show they are Covid-secure. You can report a business to the Health & Safety Executive if you are worried.
any legitimate concerns of your employer.
Firstly, you need to consider what works best for you and your family. If you have school-aged children and little wraparound care available, hybrid working means you can get the benefits of both face to face contact and remote working and One of the outcomes of the pandemic is that previously resistant still be around at least part of the week to do the school run. But employers have seen that remote there are also other considerations, working is effective, although including your own motivation. Can remote working through Covid-19 has been far from normal. For many, you easily stay motivated when working alone? it’s been much more isolating and difficult. Once you have established how you want to work, think through how So your employer may be open this might affect your colleagues, to discussing with you different your ability to do your job and your ways of working. Many businesses career prospects. Whilst many jobs are anticipating greater hybrid can be done remotely, different jobs working, with people working lend themselves to different forms of some days from home and some in the workplace. Others may need flexible working. more persuasion. It’s important to Read more about remote working be clear about what you want, to options and getting the most out of think through the possible impact hybrid working. on your colleagues and to address Familiesonline.co.uk
May/June 15
HEALTH
My Ways to Feel Better Poster
Help your children to handle difficult feelings. Download and pin up this poster from Partnership for Children with ideas to help them feel better.
My Ways to Feel Better Poster When I feel angry, sad or worried, I can choose to do one of the activities on this poster to help me feel better. Which will I choose?
Dance to your favourite song
Have a drink of water
Think of the three best Think of a happy memory of your moments of the day friends/family
Talk to a friend
Think of three solutions for your problem
Do some colouring
Smell your favourite smell
Hug a toy
Do five star jumps
Ask for help
Take some deep breaths
Write down how Think of a happy Watch television time you are feeling
Have a nap
www.partnershipforchildren.org.uk
Say you’re sorry
Make a list of things you are good at
Imagine your favourite place
Do a full body stretch
© 2020 Partnership for Children. Registered Charity number: 1089810. All rights reserved.
DOWNLOAD POSTER HERE 16 Familiesonline.co.uk May/June
Familiesonline.co.uk May/June 16
HEALTH
HEALTH
Overcoming emotional eating
Supporting brain health
Struggling with the kind of pressure the last year has delivered can create stress in the body. One of the results can be falling victim to emotional eating - eating beyond hunger, to comfort or reward ourselves. So how can you overcome this problem? READ MORE
Equazen is a clinically proven range of Omega-3 with 6 supplements for children, which supports brain health, by offering the recommended amount of 250g of Omega-3 DHA, blended with Omega-6 GLA.
By Pranita Salunke
Studies show that Omega-3 fish oils improve brain function, concentration and behaviour. In fact, a clinician-led year-long trial of Omega-3 and 6 brain health supplement Equazen was shown to lift reading scores in mainstream children ages 9 to 10 years.
Watch out for our Equazen giveaway coming soon!
Outdoor toy giveaway! Enjoy a summer of play... AquaPlay Lockbox
CAT Power Haulers Gazillion Bubbles Rollin’ Wave
APPLY HERE Stomp Rocket
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May/June 17
HOLIDAYS
HOLIDAYS
Win a family holiday with Away WIN Resorts! Win a three or four night stay for four people in luxury accommodation at an Away Resorts park of your choice. Fall in love with a new type of holiday at one of its fabulous UK locations - where your accommodation is off-the-scale amazing and new experiences abound. Explore the New Forest at Sandy Balls, go wakeboarding at Tattershall Lakes or hit the golf course at Boston West, both in Lincolnshire. Sample the local cuisine at Mersea Island, soak up the sun beachside or mountainside at Barmouth Bay in Wales, discover the new-look Hayling Island gem, Mill Rythe, or enjoy a bucket-and-spade holiday at Whitecliff Bay on the glorious Isle of Wight. ENTER HERE. T&Cs.
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RUGBYTOTS PARTIES
MAKE YOUR CHILD'S SPECIAL CELEBRATION MORE FUN!
A Rugbytots Party is a fun-filled way to celebrate your child's birthday, starting school or any other special event. Distinctive and dynamic, our parties place the emphasis on play, with plenty of party games and group participation.
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HOLIDAYS
HOLIDAYS
Top tips for a great camping holiday Before you go….
When you are there…
Making it cheaper…
Outdoor toy giveaway!
Have a packing list Turning up with tired, hungry kids and no tent pegs isn’t funny! Pack eye masks, earplugs, hats, socks and blankets. Invest in a thick self-inflating mat (SIM). Don’t rely on Sat Nav/Google Maps Phone signal can be unreliable and can take you to the wrong place. Pack a paper map and compass (that you know how to use!) Plan your meals Take ingredients with you. This avoids last minute panics and unnecessary spending in on-site shops. Take plenty of snacks!
Borrow equipment, buy second hand, rent a tent from Tentshare A great idea if this is your first trip… and it may be your last! Take your own duvets, pillows and blankets They may be more comfortable than sleeping bags. Book outside of peak season With the right clothes, autumn is a great time to camp. Collect wood If cooking on a campfire, do this when you arrive. It’s likely to be cheaper than buying firewood at the campsite. Buy a portable grill Cheaper than numerous disposable BBQ’s and better for the environment.
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Don’t break the rules Camping involves sharing the peace and quiet of the countryside with others. Keep the noise down and be respectful, especially at night. Don’t leave food unattended It will attract unwanted animals. Tidy up outside your tent before spending the day exploring or going to sleep. Don’t leave a trace Leave the campsite as you found it. Take your rubbish with you or use on-site bins and dedicated recycling stations. Put out your campfire.
Gazillion Rollin’ Wave
Stomp Rocket Ultra
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May/June 19
FATHER’S DAY
FATHERS’DAY
DIY Father’s Day gift ideas Help your child make something special for Dad this Father’s Day.
Lego photo pen holder
Scribble mug
Dad Rocks paperweight
Zig-zag Father’s Day card
Keepsake box
Printable Father’s Day book
Remote caddy
Dad’s special supper
Father’s Day card
20 May/June
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EARLY YEARS
EARLY YEARS
Helping pre-schoolers re-engage with each other By Sarah Mundy Yesterday I was on the beach playing with my 3 year old son when a little girl ran up. She was interested in his toys, got straight in there, and then tried to give him a hug! Her awareness of personal space, even by pre-Covid standards, was non-existent and her excitement at seeing another child was simultaneously heart-breaking and warming. Her father explained that she had barely socialised with any children over the last year. Definitive evidence around the impact of lockdown on young children is yet to emerge. However, many parents are concerned about the lack of social experiences their children have had. They have missed out on things like toddler classes which help them learn the skill of being with others. In the early years, a child’s key relationship with their primary caregiver frames their view of themselves and the world around them. When secure, it acts as a buffer to adversity, meaning that children who have been doing okay at home will feel more able to confidently explore the world again, despite being potentially behind socially. Despite this, it wouldn’t be surprising if children are behind Familiesonline.co.uk
socially. By age 3, children actively seek to play with peers, but they need help in navigating social situations. Friendships can be complex and children need to learn about managing disagreements, understanding feelings (theirs and others), taking-turns, listening and co-operating. So, how do we support our children to feel ready to go back to preschool and help them (re)learn social skills? READ MORE
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Magazine
May/June 21
Prenuptial agreements - taking a practical approach to marriage
Chances are if you’ve heard about prenuptial agreements in the past, it’s been in the context of celebrities or extremely wealthy individuals and not something that everyday couples tend to think about. But that’s not the case. More couples in Scotland are choosing to have a legally binding agreement in place before they marry to protect their individual assets in the event of the breakdown of the relationship. So what are prenuptial agreements, what are they for and how do they work? Click here to find out more.
At Gibson Kerr, we know that everyone’s circumstances are different, so if you want tailored advice on preparing your prenup agreement, contact our prenuptial solicitor expert, Fiona Rasmusen on 0131 226 9161 or email fiona. rasmusen@gibsonkerr.co.uk and she will be happy to help.
Gibson Kerr where family comes first.
In any partnership, it’s always wise to protect what’s yours No matter what your circumstances, it’s always good to know that your treasured possessions and assets are protected. So, while the idea of a prenuptial agreement isn’t the most romantic part of planning a wedding, it makes good sense to plan for every eventuality, giving you peace of mind and saving money and heartache in the long run. If you’re thinking of protecting your assets for the future, our expert legal team can help you draw up an agreement, so you and your partner can get on with planning the fun parts.
For a no-obligation confidential conversation to understand your options, call our Family Law Partner, Fiona Rasmusen, on 0131 226 9161 or email fiona.rasmusen@gibsonkerr.co.uk. www.gibsonkerr.co.uk
22 May/June
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FAMILY LIFE
Helping your child make friends By Poppy O’Neill
Rejection, big life changes, sensitivity and shyness can impact children’s ability to make or keep friends. Without guidance, they can feel baffled by friendship up and downs. What techniques can parents use to help their children build fulfilling social lives? READ MORE
Two homes – the practicalities
FAMILY LIFE
Giveaway!
Disney princess wooden toys
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Treehouse is OPEN again! With procedures in place, to keep everyone safe, Treehouse Childrenswear is open for shoe fitting and hairdressing appointments. Book here:
Over the years at Only Mums & Only Dads, we’ve heard many separating parents express their concerns about their children having two homes. How will everyone cope? What can be done to make it easier for everyone? We have some answers to these questions and others. READ MORE Familiesonline.co.uk
The team are delighted to welcome you and your little ones back in store There is lots of new footwear, clothing, toys and books for whatever your adventures are this season! May/June 23
Childminding offers a high-quality, flexible childcare solution to meet your family’s needs. Why choose childminding? Childminding is consistently rated by the Care Inspectorate as being one of the highest quality forms of childcare in Scotland and follows the same policy frameworks as nurseries (including Curriculum for Excellence).
The low adult-to-child ratio enables childminders to tailor their care to suit the needs of your child: “Anna found nursery quite overwhelming and I decided that a childminder setting with smaller numbers of children would suit her better. It’s made a fantastic difference to her.
Find out about the many benefits of childminding at
childminding.org/find-a-childminder
Have you thought about becoming a childminder? Childminding is a hugely rewarding career that provides you with the opportunity to: • contribute to children’s learning, development and health and wellbeing • be your own boss, from your own home • improve your work-life balance
“Childminding was supposed to be temporary but, 20 years later, I’m still at it! It meant I could be there for my son before and after school and during the holidays, and he had the company of other children. I had always thought I’d like to be my own boss, and childminding was the answer.”
Find out about becoming a childminder at
childminding.org/become-a-childminder
24 May/June
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FOOD
FOOD
Family-friendly al fresco dining recipes Get the family into the kitchen to help prepare some perfect food for eating outside.
Sticky chicken drumsticks
Easy traditional lemonade
Nutella fairy bread
Rainbow Jam tarts
Cheesy spinach muffins
Super sausage rolls
Layered rainbow salad pots
Child-friendly hummus with crudites
Simple tuna salad with pasta
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May/June 25
BIRTHDAY PARTIES
Party ideas for different ages By Simone Ryder If, despite a year without socialising, you are a parent who feels that party planning is yet another of the daunting challenges to be faced on the hazardous path to parenting success, then read on…. Love or hate party planning, we hope this thumbnail guide will help you on the road to a successful event
co-operating. Keep the party to about ninety minutes to avoid overstimulation. By age four, children Age 1-2 are full of energy and imagination, Your child’s first party is your which makes them wonderful celebration – the anniversary of partygoers. Plan short games and becoming a parent. Your 1 year old will have no idea what’s going on, so keep things moving as they may you can make this a celebration for still find it hard to wait their turn. Treasure and scavenger hunts work adults only, if you prefer. well but many parents opt for soft Two year old can catapult from play venues or similar to allow little excitement to temper tantrum ones to burn off energy. Entertainers in minutes — so you need to at your home or hired venue are be prepared. Most age twos also popular. Plan for a party of one are still very possessive of their to two hours. toys so do put away your child’s favourite things beforehand. And Age 5-6 avoid opening gifts at the party Five year olds know parties are very since most of the guests won’t important and may have all sorts of understand they can’t just take the wonderful (and wild) suggestions birthday child’s new things home! about the event. Theme parties Organised games aren’t really work well at this age. Children are necessary since children still play usually ready for games that involve independently at this age. instruction like Hokey Cokey and Simon Says. They are acquiring Age 3-4 fine motor skills necessary to use Now your child is likely to be scissors and string beads so they’re familiar with celebrations. Singing and circle activities work better than ready for simple crafts too. Plan for a party of about two hours. group games as they will usually enjoy playing with other children More ages and stages. briefly but may still have trouble 26 May/June
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Birthday Party Countdown Planner
Plan your party the easy way using our cut-out planner and checklist! 3 months before
6 weeks before
4 weeks before
★ Set a budget and a date
★ Send out a ‘save the date’ by email
★ Prepare invitations
★ Make a guest list
★ Pick your theme
★ Book a venue/ entertainer
★ Plan the party food you wish to order
★ Buy/make party decorations ★ Order cake
✸ ✸ ✸ ✸ ✸✸ TIP
TIP
TIP
TIP
Don’t forget cost of venue, party entertainment, food and decorations.
Popular options may need to be booked even earlier!
Ask for an RSVP.
Choose a theme your child loves.
1-2 weeks before
1-3 days before
★ Sort out the party bags
★ Buy party food
★ Plan party games ★ Send out reminder by email
★ Pick up cake ★ Write list/timings for party day
✸ ✸ ✸ TIP
TIP
TIP
Allow research time and get the birthday boy or girl to help.
Don’t just leave this to chance. Roughly plan enough games to last for at least half the party.
Reconfirm party food if ordered from a supplier.
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CLICK TO DOWNLOAD
TIP
Get your child to hand out invites at school/ nursery.
TIP
Decorations can make or break the party vibe!
Party Day
✸
Enjoy the day and take lots of pictures!
TIP
Leave plenty of time to get to the venue…
May/June 27
Calling our subscribers! Exclusive subscriber-only game giveaway! Pop Up Olaf
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Screwball Scramble 2 Harry Potter Quiz
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May/June 2021
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