Families NWSB - Issue 2 - September/October 2014

The really useful, FREE magazine for families in North-East Wales and the Shropshire Borders‌ pick up your copy today!

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Issue 2 September/October 2014 www.familiesnwsb.co.uk

North Wales Shropshire Borders

Covering Denbigh, Ruthin, Mold, Buckley, Wrexham, Llangollen, Corwen, Chirk, Oswestry, Ellesmere, and surrounding villages.

Families North Wales Shropshire Borders is looking for distributors in the Oswestry and Ellesmere areas.

If you have a car, a few hours spare every two months, and you want to earn some extra money, please call our editor Sal, on 07472 245731, or email editor@familiesnwsb.co.uk

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Inside this issue…

4…

News What’s happening near you?

6…

Things we love We’re sure you’ll love them too!

7…

Back to School It’s that time of year again

9…

Activities, Clubs and Classes Why they are so important

12…

What’s On Things to see and do around the area

14…

Your Family Life Balancing the needs of a diabetic child

North Wales Shropshire Borders Front cover image © Pixabay.com All content © Families NWSB Families North Wales Shropshire Borders contact details: Tel: Website: Email:

07472 245731 www.familiesnwsb.co.uk editor@familiesnwsb.co.uk

Enquiries: If you have a query about editorial, news, events, What’s On listings or our advertising opportunities please get in touch.

Next issue: November/December 2014.

Deadline: early October.

Circulation: 12,000 copies of Families North Wales Shropshire Borders are distributed through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected shops and other child-related venues throughout Denbighshire, Flintshire, Wrexham and North-West Shropshire. If you would like free copies for your organisation please let us know.

Clubs & Classes p9

Printer: Russell Press Ltd. www.russellpress.com 0115 978 4505 Families North Wales Shropshire Borders 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 this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences.

Any original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families not its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

Scan the QR code to go to our website, where you can search our What’s On listings, enter our competitions, and more.

What’s On listings p12

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News…

Dance students' dazzling performance at Eisteddfod!

A group of students from Border Counties School of Dance, based in St. Martins, wowed the crowds with a series of dances at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in July. The students, aged from 9 to 22 years and who are the school's competition dancers, performed a variety of show dances based on popular films and musicals such as 'Pirates of the Caribbean' and 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas'.

Will you wear a gold ribbon this September?

This September is Childhood Cancer Awareness month, and you can wear a gold ribbon to show you stand in solidarity with families who are coping with childhood cancer. Buy your ribbon online at www.shop.clicsargent.org.uk or in CLIC Sargent shops, Lidl supermarkets, or at fashion retailer Wallis.

You can ‘go gold’ by texting ‘GOLD’ to 70030 to donate £3 to CLIC Sargent (standard network charges apply). Help to raise awareness by adding a gold ribbon to your social media profiles, and you could even organise a gold-themed fundraising event! And you can donate your gold coins to one of CLIC Sargent’s Big Bucket Collections at supermarkets across the UK this September.

To find out more about how you can get involved in Childhood Cancer Awareness month, please visit www.clicsargent.org.uk/ccam

Border Counties School of Dance

The dance school, established in 2006, offers classes in a wide variety of dance disciplines - including tap, modern, ballet, freestyle and more – to children from the age of 2 ½ years through to adults, and students can dance either recreationally or competitively.

Their competition dancers are hugely successful, having competed and won titles in multiple UK and world championship events. www.bordercountiesschoolofdance.co.uk

The results are in!

The winners of our competitions in the last issue were: Adrian from Wrexham, who won family tickets to visit GreenWood Forest Park this summer!

Ann from Mynydd Isa, who won a pair of hand-stitched leather baby shoes from Inch Blue!

We’ve got another great competition lined up for you this issue - head over to page 7 for your chance to win!

Do you know a talented young musician?

The National Children’s Orchestra are holding auditions now at venues across the country, with an audition in Shrewsbury on 27th October.

will be invited to attend the regional rehearsal sessions held monthly, and to audition again the following year for full membership.

The Orchestra - for ages 7 to 13 - gives talented children the chance to train with top musicians and perform at some of the biggest concert venues in the UK. They also get to spend time with other children who share their passion for music, make friends and have fun.

The closing date for applications is September 26 but apply immediately for the best chance of getting your choice of audition venue.

Children are asked to prepare two pieces of music of up to five minutes each for their audition. The chosen pieces should show contrast in speed and style. You don’t have to have taken any musical grade exams to audition.

Ability to play is more important than ability to pay and the NCO offers full bursaries, part bursaries and scholarships to help talented musicians take part. For full details log on to www.nco.org.uk National Childrens Orchestra

Following the audition you could be invited to become a full member of the Orchestra or an associate member. Full members will be asked to join one of the NCO’s six orchestras: a training orchestra; under ten; under 11; under 12; under 13; and the main children’s orchestra. Associate members

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A-Star Sports

New venues for A-Star Sports activity classes!

Multi-sports coaching provider A-Star Sports are adding another venue to their class list, meaning that now even more children can enjoy their activities! Starting in September, A-Star will be running classes at Acton Community Centre in Wrexham, as well as at their existing venues in Holt and Garden Village.

A-Star Sports classes are a fun-filled multisports experience for children aged 2-10 years. Weekly classes provide inclusive, developmental multi-sports coaching in a positive environment that begins with the fundamentals and develops into ten core sports – basketball, cricket, dodgeball, football, handball, hockey, rounders, rugby, tennis and volleyball. The core curriculum is supplemented by a programme of activities in keeping with current events in sport.

Children are encouraged and supported in small classes through successful learning, confidence-building and a highly motivated coach. For more information on classes, parties and holiday clubs call Adrian on 07795 691417 or visit www.a-starsports.co.uk

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News…

What’s in a name?

The Office of National Statistics have released their annual report on baby names in England and Wales for 2013, with the following key findings:

Ady Jones Tae Kwon Do Academy

• Oliver and Amelia were the most popular first names given to babies born in England and Wales in 2013 (Amelia has been in the top girls’ spot since 2011, whilst for boys Oliver replaced Harry, which was previously the top name in both 2011 and 2012) • In England, Amelia was the most popular name in all regions and Oliver was the most popular name in five out of the nine regions.

• In Wales, Oliver was the most popular boys name (replacing Jacob), whilst Amelia has been the most popular girls name since 2012.

New Family Martial Arts Academy for Wrexham!

Want to know how popular your children’s names are? Visit the strangely fun website names.darkgreener.com to explore baby naming trends in England and Wales since 1996, based on ONS data.

Students and staff at Ady Jones’ Tae Kwon Do Academy are thrilled to have a new dedicated training venue open in Wrexham!

‘GO Run for Fun’ - aiming to reduce childhood obesity

The new centre will be hosting an open weekend on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th September between 10:00am and 4:00pm, all are welcome to visit to see the new facilities, watch demonstrations by current students, and receive a voucher for a free training session!

Dedicated to providing the highest quality of coaching and instruction, Master Ady Jones is just the man for the job, as a 6th Degree Black Belt and multiple World, European and National Champion!

GO Run For Fun, a new charity that encourages 5-10 year olds to be active, has taken its message to the Houses of Parliament to argue its case for more political support to encourage kids to become more active.

Twenty school children and charity founder Jim Ratcliffe directly lobbied politicians and raised the issue of childhood obesity, with the charity urging the Government and

Ady told Families “We are opening a facility that is much needed in the area and will benefit the Wrexham community, there is nothing else comparable to it in the whole of North Wales and with Tae Kwon Do being the UK’s fastest growing Martial Art, our town and the surrounding area was in much need of a safe and positive environment for adults and children to learn this fantastic sport!”

Based on Wrexham Industrial Estate, the Family Martial Arts Centre is the first of its kind to open in Wrexham, and boasts a fully matted training area of over 2,400 square feet, as well as a fully enclosed mezzanine viewing area and cafe, changing facilities and a gym area.

Classes are available 7 days per week, with a full timetable that caters for children aged 3 years and up through to adults.

Family classes are also available, so you can spend some quality time with the kids whilst learning new skills and keeping fit at the same time! Class descriptions and timetables can be found online at www.livetaekwondo.co.uk Got some exciting news to share with our readers? Let us know by emailing editor@familiesnwsb.co.uk

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all political parties to build on the Olympic Legacy and formulate policy to get children to be more active, in order to tackle the growing issue of childhood obesity in Britain.

Inactivity is a serious issue for the UK and is getting worse, and the charity believes that encouraging children to be more active is the only way to stop the scourge of childhood obesity. GO Run for Fun is a proven programme that is promoting a more active lifestyle, and in under 10 months has already attracted 20,000 children to ‘get off the couch!’, and will meet its target of 100,000 children by 2016.

Founder Jim Ratcliffe said, ‘We know that over 50% of primary school children are not getting enough exercise. Inactivity can no longer be ignored. Here is a programme that should have cross party support to tackle a significant and costly issue.’

Putting the kettle on for 'chari-tea' Brew lovers across the UK are being urged to take a break, put the kettle on and enjoy a cuppa and a slice of cake, all in the name of a good cause.

National Tea and Cake Break will take place on 17th October to raise vital funds for Epilepsy Action. The charity supports everyone affected by epilepsy through a range of services, including its Epilepsy Helpline freephone 0808 800 5050, branch network, specialist nurse scheme and award-winning website.

Michael White, fundraising events officer at Epilepsy Action, said: "Whether it's a simple cup of tea and cupcake at home with friends, a tea party in the office or a school bake sale, anybody can get involved."

Everyone who registers to hold a National Tea and Cake Break will receive a free pack bursting with hints, tips and tools to get their event off to a sweet start. For more information or to register for a fundraising pack, visit www.epilepsy.org.uk/teabreak or call the fundraising events team on 0113 210 8824.

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Things we love…

We

activity boxes from Weekend Box Club!

Children love getting stuff in the post, and what better than a box of exciting and interesting things for them to explore, make and do? The Weekend Box Club provide just that, with activity boxes for little ones delivered straight to your door!

Each box includes a variety of different activities to enjoy - a craft project, a simple recipe, an eco project, and a sensory exploration activity (this often involves getting messy!).

Boxes are aimed at children from 4 to 6 years, but with a little parental assistance younger children would also enjoy the activities, and some older children probably would too (not to mention mums and dads!).

Each box costs £7.50 (payable by monthly subscription), and you can choose whether to have your boxes delivered once per fortnight or once per month. If you go on holiday you can put your deliveries on hold until you get back.

The box and its contents are 100% reusable or recyclable, and 95% is created from recycled materials.

Want to get two boxes for free? We’ve teamed up with the friendly folk at Weekend Box Club to offer you just that! Simply use the promotional code ‘NWSB’ at www.weekendboxclub.com to receive your first and fifth boxes absolutely free!

Online reading lessons and games from Reading Eggs!

Readings Eggs provides a comprehensive range of online reading lessons and eBooks that teach children aged 3–13 the literacy skills needed for a lifetime of reading success.

Over 90% of parents using Reading Eggs report a noticeable improvement in their child’s reading skills, and this is largely because the programme makes learning phonics and basic reading skills fun!

Until 30th September your child can join thousands of children across the UK taking part in the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge – a nationwide effort to inspire children to read!

Sign up for a special 5 week free trial* at www.readingeggs.co.uk/wales and see for yourself how your child’s reading skills and confidence improve by using Reading Eggs. Registration is quick, easy and FREE!

Gorgeous new reads this Autumn!

Your little ones will love to delve into the exciting new series of books by Madeleine Rogers, which includes The Safari Set, The Polar Pack and The Jungle Crew. Aimed at children aged 4 to 7, the books teach kids about the animals of different environments through playful rhyme and colourful illustrations. Each book also contains a set of 5 animals, plus scenery, for children to pop out and fold and glue together. Vibrant and modern, they are perfect for gifts too. £12.99 from www.thegmcgroup.com

Editor’s note: “My 4 year old son has been using Reading Eggs for the last year, and he loves it! He regularly asks to play “Eggy games”, and his favourite parts are the funny songs that the characters sing. As a mum, I like the fact that he doesn’t realise that he’s learning whilst he plays the games, and that as well as reading skills he’s also getting to grips with mouse control, which helps with motor skills and handeye coordination!” *Free trial only available to new customers who sign up at the above address. Sorry, this offer is not applicable for schools.

If your family loves a particular product or service and you think other readers might love it too, please email us on editor@familiesnwsb.co.uk and let us know!

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Back to School…

10 ways to support and encourage your young reader

Win a free personalised backpack from Lands’ End! This September send your kids back to school in style, with the Lands’ End kidswear collection that includes durable outerwear and footwear in a range of colours and designs as well as fun back packs and lunchboxes that they’ll love!

As an exclusive for Families readers Lands’ End are giving away a kids’ backpack worth £50!

For your chance to win simply visit www.familiesnwsb.co.uk - if you have a smartphone simply scan the QR code inside the front cover to go straight there!

Visit www.landsend.co.uk to view the entire collection.

We all know the importance of reading to babies and toddlers, but it's equally vital that we continue to read to them, and with them, to support and encourage them as they begin to learn to read for themselves. Here are ten tips to enable you to help them on their way to becoming confident readers with a love of books.

6 – Don't tell them “you know this word” -

1 – Don't force them to read if they are not

even if you know they do. If they remembered it they would have read it; and it's frustrating and demoralising to be reminded that you know something but have forgotten it! Instead, help them to work the word out themselves, either using the previous tip or by asking them to look at the picture for clues. Learning to read is not just about decoding a jumble of letters, it's also about understanding the meaning of the words in the correct context, and the pictures can help.

in the mood. That's a sure way to put them off reading.

7– If they make a mistake and don't

2 - Continue to read to them. Reading to your child not only enables them to enjoy some one-on-one time with you, but it helps them to learn about the fluency of reading as they hear you modelling appropriate speed, pacing and intonation.

3 – Find different types of books - picture books, short stories, simple chapter books, poetry, etc. Try non-fiction as well – kids love to know about the world and how things work. If they are interested in the subject then they are far more likely to enjoy reading about it. Remember: you are the expert on your child; you know him better than anyone else and you will have a better idea of what subjects he will or won't enjoy.

4 – Give them time to experience the book as a whole. Don't expect them to sit down with a picture book and read the story without looking at the pictures; pictures bring the story to life and in most books will help the reader to understand what the words are telling them.

5 – If they are struggling with a word and want you to read it for them, ask them if they recognise any letters, or sounds within the word. Point specifically to parts of the word, or help them to break longer words down into shorter segments. Then blend the sounds together.

notice, don't interrupt them. Let them finish the sentence before asking them to read the word again. If they make a mistake again, ask them “Does that sound right?” or “Does that make sense?”.

8 – Review the book afterwards. Ask them what their favourite part of the story was, or why they thought a certain character did something. Make sure you tell them what you thought as well, especially if parts of the storyline could have been seen differently from another viewpoint.

9 – Always praise their reading efforts.

Hearing you say “I was so impressed with how you worked out that tricky word using clues from the pictures” will boost their confidence and make them feel proud of their achievement.

10 – Finally, let them see you reading regularly, and, more importantly, getting enjoyment from reading. If reading for pleasure is a normal habit for you, then it's likely that your child will pick up that habit too.

Bonus Tip - Read to your pet!

Pupils from Ysgol Bryn Coch in Mold have found success and improved their skills by reading to a dog who visits the school with her owner on a weekly basis.

The children feel comfortable reading to her as she is non-judgemental and non-critical, and overall literacy skills have improved as a result.

Don’t have a dog? Encourage your child to read to your cat, or a goldfish, or their favourite teddy instead!

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Back to School…

How to create a healthy dialogue with your child’s school or nursery... By Hannah Hunter Research shows that the better your relationship with your child’s school, the more they will enjoy learning and do well.

However it’s often impossible to know what really goes on at school – children are not very forthcoming when it comes to recounting their day. If they do raise any issues, or if you sense something is amiss, it can be difficult to know how to broach the subject with school.

As both a parent and a primary teacher, I know how hard it can be to strike the right balance. If you’re meeting a teacher outside of parents’ evening or class surgeries, it’s because there is a problem.

These meetings can easily become tense, with both ‘sides’ on the defensive.

Here are a few tips for successful communication:

Talk to the teacher first Even negative feedback is appreciated.

Going directly to the head is a bit like them phoning your boss whenever your child misbehaves!

Remember that teachers are human They sometimes make mistakes, so try to forgive them for it.

Helping out in school You can get an insight into how things are run and improve your relationship with the school by volunteering: Parent helper - helping out in class can be fun and rewarding. Research shows that having a parent who volunteers improves a child’s experience of school. Organise a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check - you can then volunteer regularly or as a one-off.

getting worse or it’s going through a big change like appointing a new head teacher, or joining with another school.

Parent Council member - some schools have a Parent Council, where parents meet to share ideas that are fed back to the school governors. This is great if you’re too busy to commit to PTA or Governors, but want to have an input.

For Back to School tips such as how to settle a child at nursery, or ideas for healthy packed lunches, etc, visit www.familiesnwsb.co.uk

Assume the best of your child’s teacher: They are trained professionals who understand the curriculum and child development. They ultimately want the same as you – a happy child who is learning.

Let teachers know if there are problems at home You don’t have to go into graphic detail, just tell them if something’s happened which may affect your child’s behaviour.

Please don’t assume that your child always tells the truth!

After all, teachers don’t automatically believe what your child tells them about home.

Remain calm and neutral “Little Johnny came home rather upset about xxx, I wondered what your take on it was?”, rather than “Why did you shout at Little Johnny like that?”

Mediation If you have issues with a teacher’s conduct, and feel upset or angry, it’s best that an additional member of staff is present.

School trips - this one is great for ingratiating yourself! On what is invariably a stressful day for staff, a responsible parent helping out can be a lifesaver.

Use your expertise - maybe there’s a school club that would fit your skill set or interests. If not, you could talk to the class or even do an assembly. One volcanologist parent at my son’s school did a legendary presentation including exploding volcanoes!

Join the PTA - fostering closer homeschool links, the PTA usually organise the school’s fundraising projects, from fetes to family quiz nights. Run by committee, they may include ‘class reps’ who pass on information from other parents in the class.

School Governors - comprising parent governors and other community members, this group of elected volunteers helps to make management decisions, such as running buildings and budgets, supporting staff and setting discipline standards. It can be time-consuming, particularly if the school’s results are

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Activities, Clubs & Classes…

Why it’s so important for children to do after school activities... By Susan Tomlinson Whether or not you reckon you might be raising the next Picasso or David Beckham, there’s no doubting the pluses for afterschool activities.

From ballet to basketball and art to archery, there’s an after-school activity out there for every child. And the best thing about them is they’re brilliant for all sorts of reasons – not just learning a new skill.

For a start, after-school clubs give kids the chance to let off steam outside of the classroom. When you consider that in many countries around the world, kids don’t even start school until 6 or 7 years old, a full day in the classroom for youngsters can be a big ask. That’s why an alternative to the three R’s can be hugely rewarding.

“It’s brilliant for developing social skills, dealing with new environments, talking to different adults and mixing with different children,” says Dr Fraser. “But best of all, after-school clubs are confidence building.”

Team sports like football, rugby, and netball are not only brilliant for keeping kids active but also helping them learn teamwork, where they can begin to appreciate what’s good for the whole team, rather than just thinking of themselves. Competitive sports are also great for learning difficult life lessons like being a gracious winner - and loser. But for team-building clubs with a less competitive edge, you could consider Brownies or Scouts.

As clinical psychologist Dr. Julie Fraser puts it, “It’s an opportunity for kids to explore different talents. Not everyone is brilliant at academic subjects and it’s a chance for your kids to shine outside of the classroom.”

She adds: “Learning a new skill can also affect what happens in school – kids feel more confident and able to try new tasks.”

Certainly all the research shows this to be the case. Every leading study into extracurricular activities demonstrates that academic grades actually improve when kids participate in outside school clubs.

Learning a musical instrument is great for discovering the art of practice, patience and persistence. Drama clubs are great for shy kids who learn to find their voice singing and acting alongside others, while ballet and dance is great for kids to learn discipline and self-expression.

But kids clubs are not only great for improving academic levels but for developing important life skills too.

The list is endless. There are clubs for almost anything you can imagine. Archery, chess, horse riding, computer clubs, film making

Don’t forget about baby!

As well as being an ideal way for you to get out of the house and meet other parents, there are many reasons why it’s just as important for babies and toddlers to take part in activity classes as it is for older children. Various activities aid your baby’s development in different ways, and there are many classes which are suitable from birth: Baby massage is a great way for both mums and dads to bond with a newborn, emotionally and physically, and is a soothing and relaxing experience for babies.

Baby yoga compliments baby massage as it encourages interaction between parent and baby; stimulating or relaxing your baby depending on the movements and rhythms used.

Baby signing classes help babies to learn to communicate using simple forms of sign-language. Why not reduce the

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and even circus skills are all proving popular alongside the more traditional arts and crafts, swimming, tennis and kung fu.

There are so many to choose from it’s tempting to try them all, but it’s also important not to overburden kids with too many activities. Frantically driving from one after-school club to the next seems to be missing the point. New skills, teamwork and confidence building aside, the most important thing to think about when deciding which club to choose is surely the fun factor.

After that, the trick is to stay involved. “It’s important to talk with the leader, find out how they work and show an interest in the class, “ says Dr Fraser. “That way you can be sure your child really is enjoying the club, and you will begin to watch them flourish and grow.”

frustration of not knowing what your baby wants - learn baby signing with your baby and she can tell you herself!

Music and singing classes stimulate your baby or toddler ’s brain, and will help him to learn and develop a variety of skills including creativity, confidence, listening ability, numeracy, and more. As he gets older, your toddler’s balance and handeye coordination will also benefit from learning to play simple instruments and singing songs.

Art and craft sessions are always popular choices for toddlers - who love the opportunity to get messy and create things - and for parents who appreciate letting someone else handle the clearing up afterwards!

Swimming classes are ideal for both babies and toddlers, providing them with a fun and stimulating form of exercise as well as teaching them essential water safety skills for life.

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Activities, Clubs & Classes Directory…

ARTS & CRAFTS Rascals Retreat (Rhostyllen) Art & craft studio offering ceramic and glass painting, sand art, badge making, seasonal projects and more.

Weekly messy sessions for pre-school children. www.rascalsretreat.co.uk 01978 314999 The Creation Station (Gresford) Arts, crafts, messy play classes and birthday parties for babies, toddlers and children from 3 months to 11 years. www.thecreationstation.co.uk 0844 874 736

Elite School of Dance (Buckley, Mynydd Isa) A wide range of dance classes for children, including ballet, tap, street dance, mums & tots and more. www.elitedanceandfitness.co.uk 01244 547498 Jane’s Studios (Denbigh) Performing arts centre with a variety of classes for all ages.

Ballet, tap, street, freestyle and more. www.janesstudios.biz 07775 655412 Oswestry Speech & Drama School (Oswestry) Specialises in teaching 8-18 year-olds all the skills they require to be confident, well-rounded performers. www.fusionartsoswestry.co.uk 07989 811401 Pyjama Drama (Oswestry) Drama, movement, music and play, to help children explore and make sense of, the world in which they live. 6 months - 5 years. www.pyjamadrama.com 01691 898508 Stagecoach (Various) Quality performing arts training for children aged 4-18 years. Nurture and develop potential through singing, acting and dance classes. www.stagecoach.co.uk Oswestry 01691 657263 Denbigh 01745 812514

BABY DEVELOPMENT BabyMatters2U (Gresford, Oswestry) Baby massage and baby yoga classes. Classes are small and informal, placing the needs of you and your baby first. 07969 333437 Baby Sensory (Various) A unique programme with a variety of fantastic activities that will stimulate all of your baby's senses, and is also a great opportunity to meet other parents. www.babysensory.com Wrexham & Mold 07876 233320 Oswestry 07917 794045

TheatreTrain (Wrexham, Mold) Professional training in the performing arts for young people aged 6-18 years, building confidence, and give aspiring young performers opportunities of a lifetime. www.theatretrain.co.uk 01978 311446 Zumbini (Garden Village, Hope, Gresford) Zumba-based dance and movement classes for children 0-3 years and their parents. www.zumbiniwrexhamandflintshire.co.uk 07913 963891

Adele Meads School of Dance and Performing Arts (Denbigh) Dance classes for all ages from 2 ½ years and up. Disco, ballet, tap, musical theatre and more. www.adelemeadsschoolofdance.com 01745 812449

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Billy Badgers Playden (Chirk) Multi-level indoor and outdoor play centre with cafe.

Birthday parties available. www.moretonpark.com 01691 776661 Dragons Den (Llangollen) Cafe with multi-level indoor softplay frame. Birthday parties available. www.dragonsdenllangollen.co.uk 01978 861963 Fantastic Funhouse (Oswestry) An exciting indoor play centre with three play frames to explore, indoor football pitch and go-kart track. www.fantasticfunhouse.co.uk 01691 655515 Geckos Play Café (Rhosddu) Multi-level indoor softplay centre . Reptile room with animal handling sessions. Birthday parties available.

All ages welcome from 0-12 years. www.geckosplay.co.uk 01978 357755

The Venue (Oswestry) Family leisure complex with indoor softplay area, tenpin bowling and fitness suite. Birthday parties available. www.gotothevenue.com 01691 684840

MUSIC

Clwyd Theatr Cymru (Mold) Weekly workshops that open the door to drama using poetry, movement, music and mime. Sessions for young people from school years 1 to 13. www.clwyd-theatr-cymru.co.uk 01352 701575

Diddi Dance (Various) Funky pre-school dance classes for girls and boys. www.diddidance.com Oswestry 01948 770169 Wrexham 07870 664734

(Talacre) Award-winning interactive visitor centre with a variety of realistic safety scenarios, for children to learn essential life skills such as identifying risks and hazards and how to keep safe in different environments, including at home, on the beach, in the countryside and at the playground. www.dangerpoint.org.uk 01745 850414 bookings@dangerpoint.org.uk

Run Around Play Centre (Wrexham) Large multi-level indoor softplay centre. Birthday parties available with a variety of themes to choose from. www.runaroundplaycentres.co.uk 01978 660126

Bitesize Youth Theatre Company (Wrexham) Youth theatre and dance classes for ages 3 and up. Dance & drama, singing, tap, musical theatre and more. www.bitesizetheatre.co.uk 01978 358320

Delta Academy of Dance and Performing Arts (Borras, Garden Village, Tanyfron, Ruabon) Classes in dance, drama and singing for all ages, 2 ½ years and up. www.dadpa.co.uk 01978 661059

DangerPoint Safety Activity Centre

Round The Twist (Rhosnesni) Multi-level indoor softplay centre. Birthday parties available. www.roundthetwist.biz 01978 352227

DANCE, DRAMA & PERFORMING ARTS

Dancing Shoes (Wrexham) Dance classes for all ages including tap, Irish, jazz, lyrical, ballet, street, show dance and more. www.dancingshoeswrexham.co.uk 07565 212892

INDOOR ACTIVITY CENTRES

Rhythm Time (Wrexham, Mold, Rhyl, Oswestry, Llandudno)

EDUCATION SUPPORT Kumon Study Centres (Various) Unique Maths and English study programmes to help every child become and independent, advanced learner with a positive attitude towards learning and study. www.kumon.co.uk Wrexham 01978 362920 Oswestry 01691 791459 Techniquest (Wrexham) Science-based activities for enquiring young minds! Weekly Lego Challenge Club, and monthly Toddler days. Birthday parties also available. www.tqg.org.uk 01978 293400

07472 245731

Much more than just a sing-along! Rhythm Time classes for babies, toddlers and preschool children offer a wide variety of exciting and stimulating activities, especially designed to aid every stage of your child’s development. Week by week, as they develop so does their confidence, creativity and co-ordination. Contact Ryan to book a free trial at a class near you. www.rhythmtime.net 07805 904596 RyanH@rtfg.co.uk

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Activities, Clubs & Classes Directory…

Baby Bird Music - Cerddoriaeth Adar Babi (Wrexham) Bilingual Welsh/English music classes for babies and toddlers. 07977 948858 Beatbugs (Wrexham) Structured, stimulating, fun-filled activities specifically designed for babies, toddlers and pre-school children focused around music and movement. www.beatbugs.co.uk 07710 504661 JoJingles (Wrexham, Mold, Mynydd Isa) Music, singing and movement classes for babies and children aged 3 months to 5 years. www.jojingles.com 01928 739966 Llangollen Silver Band (Llangollen) Music at the heart of the community. Established silver band with a dedicated youth training band for young people aged 7 years and up. www.llangollensilverband.co.uk Piccolos Music (Wrexham) Music workshops and storytelling sessions for babies, toddlers and children with additional needs. www.piccolosmusic.org 07802 645852 The Rock Project ( Various) The UK’s premier school for children’s contemporary music tuition, with lessons available in guitar, drums, bass guitar and singing, for 7-16 year olds. www.therockproject.com Denbigh 01745 815200 Wrexham 0800 040 7390

SPORTS & EXERCISE - GOLF Mile End Golf Club (Oswestry) Modern, welcoming golf club with weekly junior coaching sessions for young golfers. www.mileendgolfclub.co.uk 01691 671246 Mold Golf Club (Mold) Weekly junior coaching sessions for all levels of ability. www.moldgolfclub.co.uk 01352 741513

SPORTS & EXERCISE - GYMNASTICS Abbey Road Acro (Wrexham) Sports acrobatics and tumbling club for children aged 5 years and up. A child-friendly approach to coaching allows children to progress at their own rate and reach their full potential. www.abbeyroadacro.co.uk 01978 661299 Border Counties School of Gymnastics (Oswestry) A fun and friendly place to get involved in gymnastics, with a range of preschool, children’s and adult’s gymnastics and trampolining classes. www.bordercountiesgymnastics.co.uk 01691 658048 Buckley Gymnastics Club (Buckley) Friendly club dedicated to the development of gymnasts both physically and socially, with classes suitable for ages 3 and up. www.buckleygymnastics.wordpress.com 07970 343669 Olympus Gymnastics Club (Llay) Gymnastics classes for boys and girls aged 4 years and up, covering a variety of disciplines. Also offer Cheerleading sessions for 8 years and up. www.olympusgymnasticsclub.co.uk 07840 119989 Ruthin & Denbigh Gymnastics Club (Llangollen, Ruthin, Denbigh) Club coaches offer a full development programme for children aged 3-18 years with exciting long term opportunities for both recreational and competitive members. 07779 079838 www.ruthin-denbighgymnasticsclub.co.uk

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SPORTS & EXERCISE - MARTIAL ARTS

Waterbabies (Various) Weekly swimming lessons for babies and children from birth upwards, incorporating essential water safety skills, as well as lots of fun! www.waterbabies.co.uk Corwen & Wrexham 01244 641989 Gobowen 01694 731407

Ady Jones Tae Kwon-Do Academy (Ruabon, Gresford, Rossett, Wrexham) Tae Kwon-Do makes a positive difference to children’s lives, helping them develop their behaviour, attention span and growing confidence. Classes for all ages from 3 years and up. The school’s chief instructor is a former Welsh Team Captain and British Team Member, dedicated to providing the highest quality of coaching. www.livetaekwondo.co.uk 07968 542174 livetaekwondo@gmail.com Bwlchgwyn Karate Club (Bwlchgwyn) Recreational karate club offering training sessions for all ages from 5 years and up, from beginners to advanced. www.bwlchgwyn.wix.com/karate MD Warriors (Oswestry) A Multi-Dimensional mixed martial arts program that incorporates Karate, Judo, Ju Jitsu, Kung Fu and more, whilst focusing on self-defence, fitness and enjoyment. Classes for all ages from 3 to 16 years. www.mdwarriors.co.uk 07974 274863

SPORTS & EXERCISE - OTHER Boardroom Climbing (Queensferry) State of the art indoor climbing facility, recognised by the Welsh Government as a centre of excellence. Family tasters and fun sessions, plus weekly kids clubs to introduce youngsters aged 7 years and up to this exciting sport and teach them the skills require to climb safely. Holiday clubs and birthday parties also available. www.theboardroomclimbing.com 01244 537476 Hoola Nation (Wrexham, Oswestry, Mold, Chirk, St. Martins, Ruthin) Fun hoola-hooping activity and fitness classes for children and adults. www.hoolanation.co.uk 07841 261582

SPORTS & EXERCISE - TENNIS Wrexham Tennis Centre (Wrexham) Drop-in sessions and weekly tennis coaching courses for children aged 3 years and up. Holiday clubs and birthday parties also available. www.wrexhamtenniscentre.co.uk 01978 265260

SPORTS & EXERCISE - TEAM SPORTS A-Star Sports (Wrexham, Oswestry) Award-winning weekly multi-sports classes, with small class sizes to provide encouragement and support for your child to build the confidence, motivation and skills to enjoy sport in a number of ways. Covers 10 core sports including football, cricket, rugby, basketball, tennis and more. Birthday parties and holiday clubs also available. www.a-starsports.co.uk 07795 691417 adrian.dunn@a-starsports.co.uk Mini Strikers Football Fun (Wrexham) Preschool football fun and learning through play.

Weekly classes for boys and girls aged 3 to 6 years. www.just4strikers.co.uk

SPORTS & EXERCISE - SWIMMING Making Waves Swim School (Wrexham, Ellesmere, Oswestry) Swimming lessons for children and adults. Weekly lessons or intensive courses. Free assessments available to ensure your child starts in the most suitable class for their ability. www.makingwavesswimschool.net 01829 782494 Puddle Ducks (Wrexham, Oswestry) Swimming lessons for babies and children from birth upwards. Baby classes offer a unique sensory experience combined with bonding time with a parent. Toddlers learn essential water safety and personal survival skills as they develop their confidence and swimming ability. www.puddleducks.com 07429 892774 Turtle Tots (Wrexham) Classes for ante- and post-natal mums, and babies and toddlers. Fun, social and stimulating swimming classes, which are hugely beneficial for children and parents alike. www.turtletots.com 07793 743678

07472 245731

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11

What’s On… Animals, Nature & Wildlife Pond Dipping & Minibeast Safari Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre, Llyn Brenig, LL21 9TT 14th September

Explore the wildlife at Llyn Brenig through an exciting and educating activity, suitable for all the family. www.llyn-brenig.co.uk

We have taken every care in preparing the listings in this magazine but sometimes events

Pumpkin Carving Loggerheads Country Park, near Mold, CH7 5LH 29th October, sessions start at 2:00pm & 3:00pm

Bring your own pumpkin and get creative!

Booking required, call 01352 810614.

Spooky Masks Alyn Waters Country Park, Wrexham, LL11 4AG 29th October, 1:30pm-3:30pm

Create a scary mask at this fun drop-in session for all the family. £2.50

Merefest Cremorne Gardens, Ellesmere, SY12 0PA 20th September

Music, Theatre & Drama

Lots of fun activities for all the family, including fishing demonstrations, canoeing, cheese-making, willow weaving, lantern making, pond dipping, craft and local produce stalls, science-based fun activities, with food and refreshments.

Halloween Events Spooky Science Techniquest Glyndwr, Wrexham, LL11 2AW 18th - 19th October & 25th-31st October

Join in some of the most startling science experiments around! Ghostly goings-on, supernatural slime and brewing blood… fiendishly good fun for all ages! Shows start at 1:00pm and 3:30pm and are included in the standard entry price. www.tqg.org.uk

Halloween Spooktacular Park Hall Farm, Oswestry, SY11 4AS 2th October - 2nd November, 10:00am-4:00pm

Halloween promises oodles of spooky fun at Park Hall, with a spooky Haunted House and the Halloween Maze. Will you be able to find your way out through the dark dusky corridors and escape? Also other great Halloween activities with wacky games, light hearted spooky stories and of course pumpkin carving. Normal entry fees apply (pumpkin carving costs extra but you do get to keep your creations).

www.themeresandmosses.co.uk

Apple Day Bailey Head, Oswestry, SY11 1PZ 18th October, 9:00am - 3:00pm

A harvest celebration of locally produced fruit and vegetables including the mighty apple! Lots of children’s activities and informative stalls.

www.parkhallfarm.co.uk

www.oswestry-tc.gov.uk

Halloween Market Oswestry Town Market, Oswestry, SY11 1PZ

Arts & Crafts Lantern-making and Night Walk Plas Power Woods, Wrexham, LL11 3BT 12th October, 4:00pm-8:00pm

Create your own lantern, then embark on an atmospheric, lantern-lit walk through the woods. Under 16s must be accompanied. Booking essential, call 07543 406968. www.woodlandtrust.org.uk

Autumn Leaf Decorations Nant Mill Country Park, Wrexham, LL11 3BT 28th October, 1:30pm-3:30pm

Create an autumnal decoration at this fun drop-in session for all the family. £2.50

The Gruffalo Clwyd Theatr Cymru, Mold, CH7 1YA 30th September, 2nd-4th October, Various times

The hit musical stage adaptation of the award winning picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Meet a wheeler-dealer Fox, an eccentric old Owl and a maraca-shaking, party mad Snake!

Mouse can scare these hungry animals away with tall stories of the terrifying Gruffalo, but what happens when he comes face to face with the very creature he imagined? The perfect family treat with plenty of songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3+ and their grown-ups. Visit the organiser’s website for prices. www.clwyd-theatr-cymru.co.uk

Little Howard's Big Show for Kids The Stiwt, Wrexham, LL14 1RB 1st November, 2:00pm

Check out our searchable

What’s On calendar at

A unique family comedy show with interactive stand-up, live animation on stage and lots of jokes and songs - this really is a show that all the family can enjoy! Little Howard’s new act keeps going wrong - Roger the pigeon has spent all their money on cookie cutters, his comedy counterpart Big Howard isn’t funny, and there’s a slug in the toilet! Visit the organiser’s website for prices. www.stiwt.com

www.oswestry-tc.gov.uk

DangerQuest Spooktacular!

DangerPoint, Talacre, CH8 9RL 27th - 31st October, 11:00am-4:00pm

The Halloween-themed Danger Detective Quest offers a day out filled with spooky thrills for all the family, whilst learning about safety in a fun way. £5pp (children 4yrs and under are free).

Families of 4+ receive 20% discount. www.dangerpoint.org.uk

Hallow Brenig Llyn Brenig Visitor Centre, Llyn Brenig, LL21 9TT 30th October

Let a ghostly storyteller take you on an eerie woodland walk, with spooky surprises along the way! www.llyn-brenig.co.uk

Halloween Fun and Games Ty Mawr Country Park, Wrexham, LL14 3PE 30th October, 1:30pm-3:30pm

An afternoon of spooky Halloween fun for all the family!

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25th October There are lots of spooky things going on at Oswestry Markets, including face-painting, rides, competitions, prizes and scary market traders!

07472 245731

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are cancelled or times or prices change, so please double check details before setting out.

What’s On…

Fright Night on the Ghost Train!

Buckley Bonfire & Fireworks Display

Mold Food Festival

Llangollen Railway, Llangollen, LL20 8SN 31st October, 6:30pm

Higher Common, Buckley 5th November, 6:00pm

Mold, CH7 1NY 20th - 21st September, 10:00am-5:00pm

How brave are you? Join us if you dare on this fun night-time train journey with a twist! Book early to avoid disappointment.

A free community event for all the family!

Fun rides for children, with plenty of food and refreshments available. Buckley Fire Service will be in attendance.

There’s plenty to do for all the family at Mold Food Festival, with interactive workshops and children’s activities including biscuit decorating, food science, lollipop making and much more! Free park and ride bus service from Clwyd Theatr Cymru. Adults £5, children £2. Family ticket £10 (admits 2 adults and 2 children).

www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

Halloween at the Gaol Ruthin Gaol, Ruthin, LL15 1HP 31st October, 11:00am-4:00pm

Spooky crafts, stories and much much more! Adults £3.90, Children £2.50

Fireworks Displays Oswestry Bonfire & Fireworks Display Brogyntyn Park, Oswestry, SY11 1BB 1st November, 6:00pm

Huge annual event raising money for lots of great local charities. Massive firework display managed by Oswestry Fire Service.

Refreshments and food on site. www.oswestry-tc.gov.uk/events

Ride The Rocket Firework Train Llangollen Railway, Llangollen, LL20 8SN 2nd November, 6:00pm

Enjoy an evening train journey to Carrog stopping on the way back at Glyndyfrdwy Station for fireworks. On-board bar selling alcohol and soft drinks, with hot drinks available to purchase at Glyndyfrdwy Station. Booking essential. Train departs at 6:00pm and returns approx 8.30pm. www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

Chirk Bonfire & Fireworks Display Chirk AAA Club, Chirk, LL14 5NA 5th November, 7:00pm Family bonfire night and fireworks display.

Food and refreshments available. Adults £2.50, children 50p.

Corwen Fireworks Display Corwen Sports Pavilion, Corwen, LL21 0DN 5th November, 6:00pm

For the second year running Corwen’s fireworks display is free! Gates open at 6:00pm, and the display starts at 7:00pm.

A wide range of wonderful food will be available. The event is fully licensed and run to the strictest safety standards.

www.moldfoodfestival.co.uk

Llangollen Food Festival Llangollen Pavilion, Llangollen, LL20 8SW 18th - 19th October, 10:00am-5:00pm

Llangollen Food Festival offers a great family day out, with things for everyone to see, do and taste! Adults £5, children free.

Parking available onsite and nearby. www.llangollenfoodfestival.com

01490 460469

Dearnford Fireworks Extravaganza Dearnford Lake, Whitchurch, SY13 3JQ 5th November, 5:00pm

Fantastic fun for all the family. Gates open at 5:00pm, bonfire lit at 6:00pm. Soundsensitive firework display for little ones at 7:00pm (no loud bangs) followed by the full firework display with all the effects.

Fun fair, food, candy floss and fully licensed bar. Tickets will be available from the beginning of October. www.dearnford.com

Denbigh Fireworks Display Denbigh Castle, Denbigh, LL16 3NB 5th November, 6:30pm

Watch the fireworks from within the grounds of Denbigh Castle. Gates open at 6:30pm, the display begins at 7:00pm.

Refreshments are available, with free parking in the town centre (no parking available at the castle).

Day Out With Thomas Llangollen Railway, Llangollen, LL20 8SN 25th-26th October, Various times

All aboard for a Day Out With Thomas!

Meet Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends, who are waiting to entertain you at Llangollen Railway! Visit the organiser’s website for prices. www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

www.cadw.wales.gov.uk

Llangollen Golf Club Bonfire & Fireworks Vale of Llangollen Golf Club, LL20 7PR 7th November, 6:00pm

Annual bonfire night and fireworks display. Food and refreshments available.

Children free, adults pay an entry fee. www.vlgc.co.uk

Bryn-y-Grog Bonfire & Fireworks Night Bryn-y-Grog, Marchwiel, LL13 0SR 2 November, 4:00pm

Other Baby and Children's Market

Annual bonfire and fireworks event.

Funfair, food and refreshments available, with free parking on site. Gates open at 4:00pm, bonfire lit and firework display from around 7:00pm. £5 entry, young children free.

Catrin Finch Centre, Glyndwr University, LL11 2AW

www.bryn-y-grog.com

www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk

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13th September, 10:00am-12:00pm

Baby and Children's Markets are a great way to find new and nearly-new toys, clothes and equipment, all under one roof. £1 entry (children free).

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If you know of any fun or interesting family events happening in November and December that you think we should include in next issue’s What’s On guide, please email us on editor@familiesnwsb.co.uk and let us know, so that we can help spread the word!

13

Your Family Life…

Family life can be hard enough without one of your children having a life-threatening condition; Families reader Hannah describes what daily life is like for her and her husband, as

Parents of a Type 1 Diabetic...

“There is quite a difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. I point this out because there is so little understanding of this difference. For those who don’t know, whereas a Type 2 diabetic’s pancreas still produces some insulin, a Type 1’s pancreas produces none at all. It is not brought on by diet or lifestyle, and as yet there is no cure.

Type 1 accounts for approximately 10% of all diabetics. There is a growing campaign to rename Type 1 diabetes, which I myself am in favour for, mainly due to the laziness of much media coverage that only mentions diabetes as a whole.

When our daughter, Ava, was diagnosed at the age of two and a half, I have to confess I knew pretty much nothing about it. I instantly thought that she would only have to eat some special kind of chocolate and that maybe her dietary requirements would change slightly. I was very wrong. Skip forward two and a half years and I am very happy to say that she is doing well, and has enrolled into Rainbows and just last week passed her first level in swimming. I am a very proud mum.

But to get to this stage has not been an easy one. My husband and I work around the clock for her body to function as close to a normal child’s body as possible and to do this we basically take on the role of the pancreas. Managing insulin for a Type 1 is a massive job but easily misunderstood, and why not? On a good day, the child looks perfectly healthy and happy. I’m pretty sure that - just like my husband and I - all parents and carers do their best to hide the stress, frustration, anger and upset that comes with managing Type 1 diabetes.

We test Ava regularly, using a machine that pricks her finger to make a drop of blood.

That blood is pushed onto a test strip and growth spurts, emotions, exercise, tiredness, the machine tells us her blood glucose level the weather (no, I’m not kidding, honest).

(BG). In a perfect world it would be a 6 or 7. If Every now and then we’ve tested her at some the number is too high we take her pump (a point in the night and come across a 2 or a 1 machine attached to her via a small thin tube for no reason that we can work out. And with a plastic needle inserted under her skin) when you're faced with such serious and administer more insulin. If the possibilities when not treated, you will number is too low, then we have understand why we simply take to persuade her to eat a couple no risks and always do night of glucose tablets or a sugary testing.

“Both highs drink. Of course if she’s and lows are a serious 3:00am - we test again, and asleep, we have to wake her BG is 6. Perfect. Only her up to do this. medical emergency, this time I’ve accidentally Managing diabetes is, in my which without urgent woken her up and she’s mind, best imagined as a upset. After some time treatment can lead to set of scales. There is that stroking her hair she falls ‘golden’ number 7, and then death.” back to sleep and I go back to there are the highs, called bed.

Hyperglycaemia (anything over 14, can go up to 30) and the lows, 7:00am - the alarm goes off. Every called Hypoglycaemia (below 4). Being too morning without fail there is a moment high over a period of time can result in where I worry that I can’t hear her. Has she ketoacidosis, which can cause sickness and had another low in the early morning hours? fits. Being too low can bring on dizziness, Is she alive? It sounds ridiculous but it’s true, feeling shaky, having no energy and can that moment is always there and possibly often lead to a collapse and fitting. Both always will be. We do a blood test before highs and lows are a serious medical breakfast and she’s 4.5. Breakfast is usually a emergency which without urgent treatment cereal of some kind, its a tricky one as most can lead to death. have a lot of sugar in them and it seems to spike Ava’s BG levels at school. The insulin Every time Ava eats she needs insulin. We simply isn’t quick enough to keep her levels have to work out how many carbs are in normal. So a compromise is made. every one of her meals and snacks. We then Chocolate (high sugary ones) at the weekend key this number into the pump plus her BG and plain ones on school days. reading and it works out how much insulin to give her. If she starts eating before we’ve 10.30am - Ava asks for a snack, so we test taken a BG test it can give a higher reading again. Her BG is 17 - high. We key this due to the sugar going into her blood, so it’s into the pump and it gives her a correction very important that the test is done before (basically more insulin) and she eats a she eats. As you can imagine, this limits layyoghurt, we key the carbs into the pump as ins in the morning, as she cannot test herself well which gives her more insulin. yet and always has to wait for a test before Lunch time - the kids are having spaghetti eating. She’s too young to know what to do hoops on toast. Sometimes working out how by herself, so all food has to be requested. many carbs are in her food is a bit of a She can’t just go to the cupboards or fridge guessing game. The bread is not sliced so we and help herself, a limitation which seems weigh hers and guess at around 18 grams, harmless but can be very frustrating for a the spaghetti hoops are a little easier - 23 for child to go through every day. half a tin. Her BG is 8.6, we are happy with I’ll give you an idea of a typical day for us, to that. Again we key in her BG and the carbs help you develop more of an understanding that she’s eaten into her pump and it gives of this illness. her the insulin. In the afternoon we go round to a friends house, and Ava and her brother Midnight: one of us wakes up and tests Ava play with their friends in the garden. I reduce while she sleeps. Her BG is 10. A bit high but the amount of background insulin (the pump nothing to worry about. I give her a gives minute amounts every 3 minutes to correction on her pump and go back to bed, keep the levels stable) because exercise can setting my alarm for 3:00am for her next test. lower BG levels.

The reason for this next test? Because diabetes doesn’t like to stick to the rules.

Anything can affect it; food, hormones,

Daniel Killoran © 2014

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3:00pm - Ava feels shaky - sometimes she can feel that she is low, but not every time. I

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Your Family Life… test her and she’s 2.9! Hypoglycaemic.

Due to these irregular highs and lows I carry an emergency box which has “My husband and pump set changes, glucose tablets I work around the and sweets, plus spare batteries clock for her body to for both pump and tester. I give Ava 2 glucose tablets and ask her function as close to a to sit calmly for 15 minutes until I test her again (it takes roughly this normal child’s body as time for the sugar to reach the possible.” blood). I re-test and she’s still low (3.5) so 2 more glucose tablets. By this time she’s had enough of sitting still and just wants to go and play. This is a hard one for me, as I don’t want to stop her from playing. She knows being low isn’t good, it’s not her fault and I don’t want her to take on any more burden than she needs to. I will take the stress and worry away from her for as long as I possibly can because I love her, she’s my daughter. So I let her play, still worrying that she might stay low or go lower I give her a biscuit which releases carbs (sugar) more slowly and will hopefully tide her over for the next half hour. I could of course test her again, but so many interruptions for tests is not fun for her - she feels upset at the thought of missing out of the fun and feels bad about being low. Its a judgement call that I don’t always get right.

Ava’s friend has offered her a snack. Another BG test and she’s a 5 - no longer low. I key in the carbs of the fondant fancy and her BG reading, and the pump gives her the insulin.

5:00pm - Back at home, it’s dinner time and we’re having pizza and salad. She doesn’t like the salad really but I put it there anyway in the vain hope that she’ll eventually like it. We test and her BG is 13.2, I’m not sure why she’s gone so much higher, but this does happen. We key in a correction into the pump. After she’s finished her food we try and work out how many carbs she’s eaten, and we key that into the pump too.

8:30pm - Bedtime was 7:00pm, but we usually test her again around now. Her BG is 18.2. She’s high. When the BG is above 14 we have to do a second test with another meter to test for ketones. They are an acid remaining when the body burns its own fat and they build up when there is insufficient insulin to help fuel the body’s cells. Her ketones are 0.1 (normal). We key in her numbers into the pump and give her a correction. We have to test again after an hour to check that the correction has brought her level down.

9.30pm - We do another test, her BG is 15.0, still high but on its way down.

10.30pm - another test and she’s 11.4. Phew. Getting there. We decide to not test again till midnight.

Within 24 hours we’ve tested Ava twelve times. We try our best to count her carbs, adjusting her insulin according to exercise, illness, growth spurts, parties, the temperature etc. It’s a round the clock job.

Some days are good with near-perfect levels all day, other days (many days) they are not, and some days are plain awful. But we take on this burden so that our daughter can live as near a normal life as we can give her.

There is so much more that I have not even mentioned, changing a pump set is never a good day (this happens every 2 or 3 days), visiting the hospital regularly, having to deny food when she’s very high, and much more. But the above account is a very average day.

Quite simply, we try our best to not let it interfere with Ava’s life as much as possible, and if that means testing through the night and looking like a zombie first thing in the morning then so be it.”

For more information about diabetes visit www.diabetes.org.uk

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