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In this issue
Clubs & Classes We talk to Miss Abigail from babyballetÂŽ about their 5 year anniversary.
Family Fun at the races Check out the fantastic programme of family events at Newmarket Races.
Easter What’s on Some great ideas for places to go and things to do with the whole family this Easter! Issue 40: March / April 2018
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Daniel, 35 Factory Fitter & On-call Firefighter
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Daniel is a Factory Fitter and has been an on-call firefighter for Saxmundham, since November 2011. “In 2000 I applied to become a full time firefighter, but unfortunately I wasn’t successful. 11 years later, I heard Saxmundham Fire Station were recruiting on-call firefighters, so I went along to an open day. That’s where my firefighter journey began. After an interview, medical, aptitude test and a great two weeks training at the Wattisham training centre, INOW became aRECRUITING fully-fledged firefighter!IN:
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• Halesworth • Holbrook a long East time I•wanted to be a firefighter; I love •“For Ipswich Ixworth that I get to help people in a physical emergency
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Welcome & Contents
Hello...
in this issue...
Welcome to the Spring edition of Families Suffolk Magazine. The main feature for this issue is ‘Clubs & Classes’.
We talk to Miss Abigail, founder of babyballet® Sudbury, Bury St Edmunds & Ipswich West about their forthcoming anniversary, and the benefits of dance classes. The ‘Clubs & Classes’ feature also has lots of great ideas for parents and children looking to join a new local club. We also have some helpful legal advice from Barker Gotelee about making a will and Suffolk Museums tell us all about their ‘Larry Lodekka Kids Club’ at East Anglia Transport Museum.
With Best Wishes
If you have cheeky little monkeys like Thomas and Fred (pictured left) to entertain this Easter you will also want to take a look at our ‘What’s On’ guide, packed full of ideas for family days out. Please also follow our social media pages for more up to date information and events.
Stacey Phillips Follow us:
4
Early Years
5
Suffolk Fab40 Adventures
6
Making a Will
7
Public Health: School Nurses
8
Family Law
9 - 13 Main Feature: Clubs & Classes 14
Suffolk Museums
15 - 18 What’s On 19
Family Offers & Competitions
Facebook /FamiliesSuffolk | Twitter: @familiessuffolk
Contact us: Editor: stacey@familiessuffolk.co.uk | 07951 946736 Advertising: lisa@familiessuffolk.co.uk | 07887 945767 Events & What’s On: heather@familiessuffolk.co.uk
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Early Years
The Natural Way to Learn and Play Having young children often means that our homes get overtaken by bright, large, plastic toys, but there are many everyday household items which could also aid your child’s learning and play. Holly Hammond, Manager at Wellington Nursery, part of the Bows & Arrows Group in Ipswich tells us more... As a Nursery we are keen promoters of Natural resources, we believe these really stimulate, engage and challenge the children. In fact we are we are so passionate about this – that the only plastic you will find around our Nursery is Duplo blocks! For us Natural resources provide open ended play – they spark so much curiosity and it is wonderful to watch the children’s imaginations come alive , for example we have a simple wooden pallet which has been everything from a pirate ship to a train to a building base to a zoo area for the wooden animals. It is really exciting to see what it will be each day and to watch the children work together and flourish at the challenge.
Wellington Nursery is just off Norwich Road on Chevallier Street. The Nursery is the only specialist under 3’s Nursery within Ipswich, offering specific care for 0 – 3 year olds. Manager Holly is degree educated and a Key Practitioner for Suffolk of children aged 0 – 3 years. For more information visit: www.wellingtonnursery.co.uk
things which you can try at home: • Using real fruit and vegetables for play Children can understand the textures, smells and feel of these vegetables. The other day the children were fascinated by all the cloves within a garlic and wanted to peel sprouts to see what they could find underneath. These are not things which children can appreciate or experience from plastic equivalents!
• Recyclable materials Cardboard boxes or tubes, empty yoghurt pots. Junk Modelling can be a great way for children to use their creativity and imagination. The children have endless possibilities what to make.
• Sensory baskets Examples of things to include could be wooden spoons, scarves, shiny things – such as a chunky bracelet, hair rollers, jar lids, hairbrush, pinecones. These baskets provide a great way for young children to understand different textures and sounds. Obviously you would need to supervise younger children with this as babies in particular learn through putting things in their mouths.
• Old pots and pans Our Nursery children love nothing more than playing in our mud kitchen. If you have any old pots and pans then the children will love making things in the mud and water.
An Outstanding Nursery The Nursery is part of the OUTSTANDING Bows and Arrows Group which owns 6 Nurseries across Ipswich and prides itself on giving local children the very best start in life. It is very passionate about the use natural resources and outdoor learning and play.
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Suffolk Fab40 Adventures
Suffolk Fab40 Spring Adventures
Suffolk’s Fab40 Adventures is an exciting programme which aims to help inspire families with wonderful ways to leave their living rooms behind and step outside into their local park or further afield and explore the amazing world of nature on our doorstep. Developing Physical Skills
Spring
One of the benefits of getting out and about in nature with young children is the opportunities that arise to develop and practice their physical skills. Kids clamber over rocks; walk on different surfaces; balance on tree stumps; jump puddles; tread carefully; pull themselves up; lower themselves down; learn to assess risks and to overcome physical challenges. Studies indicate that children who play regularly in nature show more advanced motor fitness, including coordination, balance and agility.
Suffolk’s 10 Spring Adventures We know you are going to love Suffolk’s 10 Spring Adventures – this seasons activities are all great things to encourage you all to step outside in the warmth of Spring (fingers crossed) and connect with nature as it ‘springs’ back into action after the cold winter months. ley © Terry Long
Feel calmer and less stressed Children who experience the natural environment (which includes gardens and parks) are far more likely to be active outdoors when they are adults.
get to tick when yo for u’v ! e do ne them
1. Wonder at magical carpets in an ancient bluebell wood
www.fab40suffolk.co.uk @suffolkfab40 | #40adventures
6. Discover signs of pirates in a country churchyard Find skull and crossbones carved deep in old gravestones. There are so many treasures hidden away in churchyards.
2. Spot a Mad March Hare or two
7. Listen out for a Tawny owl
Look out for hares bounding madly across the fields. You might even witness a boxing match between a pair of potential mates.
3. Encounter spring lambs down on the farm Visit a local farm park or open farm to meet new lambs close up.
4. Plant it. Grow it. Eat it. Get planting now and be sure to keep things well watered and weed free.
Research has shown that within just 5 mins of being in a green space, young people feel calmer and less stressed. Suffolk’s Fab40 Adventures wants to encourage children, with their parents, carers or grandparents to get outdoors and activate and take advantage of what Suffolk has to offer.
s u re w h e re to g o ? - v i s i t fa b 4 O s u ffo l k . co . u k to d a y
© Neil Rolph
Stretched out between the trees, carpets of bluebells cover the woodland floor in late April/ early May. Simply magic!
© Richard Ansell
And, of course, its loads of fun and free!
n ’t 4 Do
5. Watch a very special show – ‘Strictly Skydancing’ See the amazing moves and graceful glides of courting birds of prey. Take a pair of binoculars along to Suffolk’s reed beds to watch the aerial antics of Marsh Harriers. Ne e
Britain’s largest common owl is rarely seen, but often heard. Woodlands, parks and gardens are the haunt of the nocturnal Tawny owl, so why not go outside and open your ears after dark?
8. Look out for frogspawn in your local pond It’ll soon be time for tadpoles and tiny frogs. Check out the water’s edge for tell-tale signs now.
9. Prepare a wild salad There are plenty of edible flowers and weeds out there. Identify them and make a salad with a difference.
1O. Spring clean your local area A litter-free environment is good news for wildlife. Take time to tidy up a little and make a big difference.
dm fo l k . c o . u k o re i n fo r m a t i o n ? v i s i fa b 4 O s u f t
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Families Suffolk: Issue 39
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Private Client Legal advice from Barker Gotelee
Making A
Will
With two young children of her own, Lindsey Sharples, a solicitor in the Private Client team at Barker Gotelee, understands the time pressures involved in parenting young children. Lindsey says “balancing parenting, a house and part time work is a juggling act for most parents but there are some tasks that it is important to prioritise even in the midst of a chaotic family life and they include ensuring you have up to date Wills in place.” Lindsey Sharples, Private Client Solicitor. 01473 617343
Life | Land | Business
s
Questions & Answer
Lindsey Sharples has answered some of the most common questions asked by parents making Wills: Who will take care of my children if we both die and they are still under 18 years? It is common to assume that godparents or grandparents would automatically take responsibility for your children if you die whilst they are minors but this is not the case. It is important to appoint guardians who would take daily care of your children and trustees to manage the monies your children inherit from you.
What age should my children inherit? I recommend that Wills state children inherit at the age of 25 years but with the in-built ability for your trustees to advance funds to your children at an earlier age, if necessary, to cover the cost of school, university, etc
How do I let my family know my views about the upbringing of my children? I recommend that parents write a letter to go with their Wills covering all the important issues such as education, what financial assistance children should receive with university fees and buying their first house, etc.
I might have more children in the future, surely it is better to wait until my family is complete before making a Will. Your Will can be worded in such a way so as to include any future children you might have.
Peace of mind for your family across the generations Whether you have a young family or are enjoying spending time with your grandchildren, at Barker Gotelee Solicitors, we’re here to help you plan a happy and secure future for you and your loved ones. Our friendly, approachable and experienced team can offer a wide range of services, including advice about:
· Wills containing guardianship provisions · Setting up trusts for young children/grandchildren · Wills following a divorce or separation
· · · ·
Tax efficient gift giving Inheritance Tax planning Powers of Attorney Estate planning and asset protection
For your life, land and business, we’re here to help. Call 01473 611211 or visit barkergotelee.co.uk
I am divorced and living with a new partner and both of us have children from our previous relationships. How do I set up my Will to cater for both my new partner and my children? This situation may seem complicated but it can be dealt with easily by including trust provisions in your Will enabling your new partner to have the benefit of your estate during their lifetime whilst at the same time ensuring the underlying value in your estate passes to your children.
Wills seem like something old people make why do I need one? Everyone needs a Will covering what happens in the event of their death. We never know what the future holds and it is important to ensure that your views about your children’s futures are clear to your family in advance, rather than to bury your head in the sand and leave these important issues to chance.
41 Barrack Sq, Martlesham, Ipswich IP5 3RF Free parking
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Public Health
Suffolk School Nursing School Nurses work across education and health, providing a link between school, home and the community. The aim of the School Nurses is to improve the health and wellbeing of children and young people. They work with families and young people from 5 to 19 and are usually linked to a school or group of schools. A School Nurse’s work covers a lot of different areas, ranging from acne to sexual exploitation, self-harm to sleep problems - all those issues centred around the physical and emotional health of children. They support children, parents, and carers to ensure they have access to a range of services, including: • Support schools to prioritise health needs within their school community. • Produce termly newsletters – one for Primary Schools and one for High Schools. • Attend community events. • Provide hearing and vision screening in Reception. • Take growth measurements as part of the National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP) in Reception and Year 6. • Offer weekly confidential ‘drop ins’ for pupils in secondary schools. • Give health advice, signposting and referrals around a broad range of health topics
How do I contact my School Nurse? By phone: Your local School Nurses team phone number and address is available at: www.suffolk.gov.uk/ schoolnursing By text: Our virtual School Nursing service ChatHealth is a quick and easy way to contact the School Nursing team. The number to do this is 07507 333356. Normal text rates apply. Website: www.suffolk.gov.uk/schoolnursing At Drop In: Details of Schools offering School Nurse drop ins are available on our website (above)
ChatHealth With more and more children, young people and their families using mobile phones to oversee their daily lives, the Suffolk School Nursing service provides a virtual school nurse as part of their service. ChatHealth is an easy way for parents, carers, and young people to confidentially ask for help about a range of issues, or make an appointment with a school nurse. They can also find out how to access other local services including emotional support and sexual health services. Parents and Pupils who have already used the ChatHealth service have said they like using the messaging service because it is less embarrassing, quick and easy, anonymous and non-judgemental. Text messages sent to the dedicated number (07507 333356) are delivered to a secure website, and responded to by the Suffolk School Nursing team. The service is available Monday to Friday 09:00 – 16:30, excluding bank holiday. Out of hours, anyone who texts the service receives a ‘bounce-back’ message that explains where to get help if their question is urgent, and when they can expect to get a response. Texts are replied to within one working day. Texts are charged at normal local rate.
School Nurse Case Study... Nikki, a School Nurse, saw Simon in school following a referral from his Year Head. Simon had been feeling anxious about his GCSE exams and couldn’t concentrate on his studies. He was also starting to have difficulty sleeping and had stopped spending time with his friends outside of school. Nikki carried out her assessment and also discussed Simon with a Primary Mental Health Worker. Together, they came up with a plan to address the different issues. When talking about the support available to Simon, a group for pupils experiencing exam stress was identified. Nikki supported Simon to attend this group, which he found extremely useful. He was able to put into practice some of the strategies learnt from Nikki and from the group, which reduced his anxiety enabling him to concentrate on his revision.
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Family Law advice from Barker Gotelee
The is s u e o f
Covert Recordings When you think about covert recordings the most common scenario to appear in the mind is one of spies and detectives looking to gather evidence to uncover a plot or scheme. However, according to Family Law Solicitors Barker Gotelee, recordings are no longer only seen in the fictional world of James Bond. The Family Law team at Barker GotelEe
Nicola Furmston
Amanda Erskine
With advancements in technology anyone can take out their phone and record without anyone else knowing. The technology (including spy ware) is readily available and relatively inexpensive so it is inevitable that some people may seek to use it.
order against the father for the mother’s costs associated with the time taken up with the recordings. This case proves that whilst it might be tempting to obtain recordings of conversations with children, it is likely to do more harm than good.
There are now more and more family cases where the issue of covert recordings arises.
Life | Land | Business
These recordings can involve the recording of family members or children with the person making the recording holding the firm belief that this ‘evidence’ will help to bolster their case. There are many issues which can arise when attempting to introduce recordings into a case. These include the lawfulness of obtaining the covert recordings in the first place, who is being recorded and why, how they are being recorded and whether it is going to be possible to verify the authenticity of such recordings. There is also a risk that such recording could breach confidentiality. One such case was heard in the family courts in 2016 where a father sewed a recording device into his daughter’s school uniform to record conversations she was having with various bodies about who she should be living with. On that occasion the recordings were admitted as evidence on the basis that they were directly relevant to the assessment of the father to parent the child. The judge hearing this case commented that such activities normally say more about the person carrying out the recording than the person being recorded. In this particular case the judge ordered that the child should live with the mother and it is likely the recordings playing a part in this decision. Furthermore the court also made a cost
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We offer you a range of family law services We all need help from time to time. Our friendly and approachable solicitors are on hand to advise you on a host of family law matters. · Family breakdown - helping to achieve financial security for you
· Children - support and expert advice on arrangements for children · Mediation - discussing the issues that matter to you
Ask us about our fixed fees and free 01473 611211 barkergotelee.co.uk consultations on selected services. 41 Barrack Sq, Martlesham, Ipswich IP5 3RF Free parking
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Photo Credit: Chanon deValois Photography.
EDITORS Feature: Clubs & Classes
Celebrating 5 years of babyballet® in Sudbury, Bury St Edmunds and Ipswich West
They say time flies when you’re having fun and for Abigail Franklin founder of babyballet® Sudbury, Bury St Edmunds & Ipswich West, that couldn’t be more true. On the 29th April 2013 in Boxford, Sudbury Abigail Franklin opened the doors of her very own babyballet® dance school. Four children and their parents took part in her first class and now, nearly five years later, she has over 250 children across classes in Sudbury, Bury St Edmunds and Ipswich. Affectionately known by her students as Miss Abigail she follows a bespoke and professionally designed babyballet® syllabus. Whilst most children attend the classes for an average of one to two years, some attend for much longer. Sarah Fincham-Jacques started babyballet classes at eighteen months old and still attends every week. Sarah’s mum Donna decided to bring Sarah to babyballet when she saw an advert in the local community magazine, thinking that it was something that Sarah would love. “At our first class I was nervous, not Sarah, but Miss Abigail was so friendly and welcoming that everyone had a fabulous time” said Donna. “Over the past five years Sarah has learnt to control movements, follow directions, good listening skills and confidence. Sarah has always loved the music and dances at the classes. At 18 months old we learnt the actions together and now Sarah dances ballet and tap confidently on her own. Sarah is still attending babyballet at the age of 6 years old because she
loves it. She has made many friends and has an incredibly strong bond with Miss Abigail. Babyballet has been a big part of our life and we will miss it dearly once Sarah graduates and is too old to go!”
2013
The benefits of dance classes for pre-school children? Children across the world love to dance and, preschool children particularly, learn through physical and sensory experiences. Learning to dance helps them to develop a wider knowledge, skill and understanding. The health aspects are obvious to see, but through dance children develop enhanced physical, emotional and social development.
2018
Sarah and Miss Abigail pictured above.
“We are proud that at babyballet® children grow up together and parents and children alike, become friends for life.” Miss Abigail. Over the years Abigail has seen many children come and go and she cares about every single one! Her aim is to bring out the best in all of the children she teaches and hopes to instil them with a life-long love of dancing.
babyballet classes are a great place to build interactions and social bonds with both adults and other children. They can also help improve social skills, teamwork, co-operation and trust. What’s next for Miss Abigail? “We have an exciting year ahead, with a few events planned to celebrate our 5th Anniversary”, says Abigail. “We are hoping to expand into new areas so that we can offer even more classes in Suffolk … So watch this space!”
How do you sign up? If you are looking for a new way to see your child grow, whilst channelling their unwavering energy, you can book a three week trial through the babyballet website www.babyballet.co.uk. Or contact Miss Abigail for more information Sudbury@babyballet.co.uk
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EDITORS Feature: Clubs & Classes
Stagecoach Does your child want to be a world record holder? Stagecoach is now opening its doors to new students for an exciting summer term. Both the Woodbridge and Ipswich schools are staging Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr in July as part of a Guinness World Record attempt for the most simultaneous performances of one show across the globe. The Woodbridge school will be performing at the New Cut in Halesworth for the third year. Meanwhile, Stagecoach Ipswich is taking a year off from the Ipswich Regent and is planning a medieval festival and open air performance for its summer show. Stagecoach runs at the weekends in Ipswich, Martlesham and Woodbridge. For more information or to apply online for a two-week trial, you can visit the websites stagecoach.co.uk/ipswich and stagecoach.co.uk/woodbridge.
Kumon Supplementary education available at Ipswich Central and Ipswich, Nacton Road Study Centres
At Kumon we are dedicated to fully pursuing the potential of each individual student. Kumon Instructors provide just enough guidance for their students to be able to do the exercises on their own. As a result, our students learn that they can do anything if they try, build self-esteem, and develop the ability to take on new challenges for themselves.
JOIN AN INSPIRE SUFFOLK CLUB IN 2018 A range of sports, disability clubs and holiday clubs for your child!
The Kumon Maths and English Study Programmes are available at both the Ipswich Central and Ipswich, Nacton Road Study Centres. They aim to bring out the best in every child, regardless of age or ability, and help them to reach their potential and foster a love of learning. Through individualised programmes with work set at just the right level, your child will be able to build strong learning foundations, not only developing ability in maths and English but transferable skills that will help them achieve across all subjects. www.kumon.co.uk/Ipswich-Central | 01473 614 665 www.kumon.co.uk/Ipswich-Nacton-Road | 01206 577 150
INSPIRE SUFFOLK HOLIDAY CLUBS & WEEKLY SPORTS CLUBS Holiday Clubs in Ipswich, Woodbridge, Kesgrave, Bury St Eds, Hadleigh & Lowestoft Why not try one of Inspire Suffolk’s fun-packed holiday clubs for children aged 5-13 every school holiday across Suffolk. Children spend the whole day enjoying a variety of sports, craft activities, dance* & football courses*, which are inclusive to children of all abilities (*in some locations). Extended day options in Ipswich and Woodbridge, with choice from 8.30am-5.30pm from just £12 a day. Find out more at www.inspiresuffolk.org.uk
Weekly Sports in Ipswich, Woodbridge & Kesgrave Find out more at www.inspiresuffolk.org.uk Registered Charity Number: 1101519
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Join Inspire Suffolk’s weekly sports clubs where your child can meet new friends, work on their skills and build their confidence! They run football, netball, girls’ football, disability sport sessions, and DSActive clubs! Get involved from just £4 a week, find out more at www.inspiresuffolk.org.uk
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EDITORS Feature: Clubs & Classes
All Stars Cricket All Stars Cricket was launched in March 2017. The programme has had an incredible first year with over 2,000 All Stars Cricket centres delivering the programme to over 37,000 kids. All Stars Cricket provides boys and girls from 5 to 8 years old with an opportunity to become a star. The national curriculum of fun, cricket activities and games provides children with the basic movement skills to begin a lifelong love of physical activity. The programme is a paid for product that has a RRP of £40, although this can vary across the Country. The cost includes the 8 week All Stars Cricket programme (1 x hour session per week for 8 weeks) and the pack; including a bat, ball, rucksack, cap and t shirt (personalised with their name) – all delivered to your door. The programme is delivered by trained volunteers who deliver game based activities that teaches basic cricket skills like catching, throwing, hitting a moving ball and social skills like team work and communication.
Reasons to join: • For all boys and girls aged five to eight • Delivered nationwide at over 2,000 centres. • Eight one-hour sessions, held over eight weeks. • Emphasis on fun and being active • Focus on developing your child’s movement skills. • Great first introduction to cricket. • Safe and fully accredited. • Valuable time with your kids – mums and dads are encouraged to take part too. • Easy online registration . For more information or to register for a summer of #BigMoments please visit
allstarscricket.co.uk
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EDITORS Feature: Clubs & Classes
Pre-School Clubs & Classes
Ipswich and Colchester Sling Library Spreading the ___ love for carrying Are you confused by all the options?
lear
Drama Workshops Sensory Storytelling (Ages 1-3) Tues 9-9.45am/10.30-11.15am & Thurs 12-12.45pm/1.30-2.15pm @ AFC Sudbury 20 spaces per session - £6.00 per session (term time only - 6 weeks per half term) Sweet Pea Sensory Drama Sweet Pea Drama After-School Club
Book 6 Sessions For £30!
Drama Club (Years 4, 5, and 6)
their
ass
Join us at any point!
es
www.iandcsl.co.uk • iandcsl@aol.com • 07547 641573
hing Teacming ifndepend e r swicmhild is diferent aom birthn..t . nd ry Eve ns to swim at
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Our Experts are here to help... We hold 4 sling library's every month and offer workshops and home consultation.
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Find your
Puddle Ducks difere
. nce
local class at
puddleducks.com
t: 01473 824582 suffolk@puddleducks.com
Thursday 4pm-5.30pm @ Acton Village Hall 30 spaces available - £30.00 for 6 weeks
07398 042922
(term time only - spaces refresh after each half term)
Booking essential
SweetPeaDrama@yahoo.com
SPECIAL OFFER BUY ONE GET ONE FREE Every TUESDAY during March & April 2018
For any full paying parent/toddler attending the Tuesday sessions (1 - 2pm) during March and April 2018 you can bring one parent/toddler friend to the same session for free, no need to book just turn up. *Please present a copy of this advert at reception to receive the offer*
01473 433676 • admin@pipersvale.co.uk • www.gymnasticsinipswich.co.uk
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EDITORS Feature: Clubs & Classes
Gymnatics in Ipswich
Jo Jingles
Pipers Vale
New Classes at Play2Day, Martlesham, Ipswich
Being physically active every day is important for the healthy growth and development of babies, toddlers and preschoolers, and gymnastics is a great way to improve co-ordination, strength, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness whilst also having fun.
Puddle Ducks New Saturday classes in Levington, Ipswich for babies, toddlers & pre-school age children Puddle Ducks are very pleased to announce they have extended their hours at Stratton Hall in Levington and are starting new classes on Saturday mornings. It’s lovely and warm, has parking on-site and changing rooms at the venue. There are many benefits to swimming with your child, listed below are just a few: • Classes really help to build your child’s confidence around water, especially as they learn vital personal survival skills and can even help with activities at home such as hair washing! • The fun content of lessons with lots of songs and activities helps children to learn without even realising it! • Regular swimming often improves eating and sleeping patterns • Even though gentle, baby swimming classes provide a complete physical work-out: strengthening your baby’s heart, lungs and respiratory system • Being in water with your child lets you share their swimming journey and learn how to practise in your own time • Encouraging children to take regular exercise helps to promote a healthy routine from an early age. The Puddle Ducks teachers adapt every activity to suit each child. Their babyled swimming approach ensures that your child’s needs are expertly fulfilled - never forcing development, but rather nurturing it to ensure a positive experience and love of swimming. If you would like further details please email: suffolk@puddleducks.com or call Puddle Ducks on: 01473 824582.
Parent & Toddler sessions for 0-5 years are a great way of introducing your child to our facility from an early age, helping to develop social and interactive skills for your child and build their confidence. The centre is a great environment for children to explore physical skills such as hanging, balancing and jumping using the gymnastics equipment. Preschool classes are extremely popular, with the focus on getting children used to being part of a structured class and interacting with other children in a fun and safe environment. It is a great way to prepare them for starting school. In addition, children will learn gymnastic moves helping with balance, coordination and core strength. www.gymnasticsinipswich.co.uk
Sweet pea Drama Sudbury / Acton From April 2018 - Sweet Pea Drama Workshops presents a new and immersive storytelling experience for children aged 1-3 years. Tue: 9am-9.45am or 10.30am-11.15am Thu: 12pm-12.45pm or 1.30pm-2.15pm Run by Sophie Allen, a fully qualified teacher with over 10 years experience in Drama education. The workshops will allow children to interactively participate in storytelling and skill building through the medium of Drama, whilst developing key skills such as communication, confidence, team work, and sensory development using music, movement, props, and dialogue. An exciting new after-school Drama club is also available for school years 4, 5, and 6 at Acton Village Hall every Thursday (from 19th April). From 4pm-5.30pm Call: 07398 042922 Email: SweetPeaDrama@yahoo.com
Jo Jingles Ipswich is very excited to be partnering up with Play2Day soft play area at Martlesham. Starting on Mondays from the 12th March there will be a Jo Jingles class 1:30-2:15pm suitable for little ones from 18mths plus. This will be held in the party room at Play 2Day. Little ones have unlimited FREE access to the soft play area before and after the session! The perfect opportunity for a well-earned cup of tea or bite to eat in the café!
Special Offer There is a special offer of 3 sessions for £15 for the 12th, 19th and 26th March! E-mail Katie at ipswichjingles@gmail. com or call 07732 544548 to book. Check the website www.jojingles.com/ ipswich for information on other classes in Ipswich, Felixstowe, Westerfield, Kesgrave and Stowupland.
Ipswich & Colchester Sling Library With over 200 carriers in the Sling Library you will be sure to find the most suitable one for you and your baby. The Sling library currently have four sling library meets per month (non members welcome). They meet in Colchester at Kingsland Church (CO3 9DW) on the 1st Wednesday and The Quaker Meeting House (CO1 1NF) on the 3rd Friday of the month and at Suffolk Babies in Ipswich on the 2nd and 4th Monday’s of the month. The Sling Library has an annual membership of £5 and then the hire fee depends on the type of carrier you choose. Monthly sling meets are open to all whether expecting and looking into your options, a new parent and confused by all the options or currently using carriers and looking to meet like minded people. Their meetings are very friendly and they pride themselves in making you feel comfortable and at ease. Find out more at: www.iandcsl.co.uk
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Suffolk Museums
Take a trip back in time this Easter
with the East Anglia Transport Museum This Easter holiday why not hop over to the East Anglia Transport Museum where a cracking day of vintage transport fun awaits. At this unique museum the vehicles of yesteryear can be seen in action and the half-forgotten sounds of the past, from the swish of the trolley poles to the rhythmic hiss of steam, are brought back to life. The museum offers regular rides on their collection of trolley buses, trams and even a short stretch of railway. It’s a welcoming spot for families; along with high chairs and a children friendly menu in the café, there’s multiple picnic spots and a designated area for buggies. The interactive activities are also great
way for children to learn about what transport was like for their parents and grandparents.
The ‘Larry Lodekka Kids Club’ In 2017 the museum introduced a children’s club based around the popular Lodekka LFL57 bus. The club is aimed at children and young people from the ages of 3 to 14 and works to both encourage families to visit the museum and help children learn about the museum’s collections of vintage vehicles.
Larry L Kids Club
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For Children Aged 3 - 14 al eci Sp t & e Me days e y Rid Larr ! h t a i w kk e d Lo Yo ur Ow Ex n clu s Lar ive Lod ry Clu ekka bB adg e
Special Birthday Card & Gift From Larry
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East Anglia Transport Museum, Chapel Road, Carlton Colville, Suffolk, NR33 8BL Tel: 01502 518459 Email: Larry@eatransportmuseum.co.uk Reg. Charity 268204
14
The red Lodekka, which has been christened ‘Larry’, is the head of the club and makes a guest appearance on every first Sunday of the open season. ‘Larry’ takes families on trips outside of the museum grounds and comes suitably bedecked with eyes above the headlights and other fun decorations. Owing to ‘Larry’s’ advanced age, and his historic importance, all decorations have been designed to be removable so as not to damage the fabric of the bus. Membership of the ‘Larry Lodekka Club’ costs just £12 per year and includes a badge, a membership card, three newsletters from ‘Larry’ with stories, puzzles and fun facts
along with free admission to the museum on all open days (accompanied by an adult). Members will also receive a card and special gift from ‘Larry’ on their birthday.
Easter weekend opening Larry will be making his first appearance of 2018 at the museum on Sunday April 1st, along with a host of other egg-cellent activities. Treasure hunts, egg decorating and face painting along with extra prizes for children in Easter bonnets and rides on the trolleybuses and trams will provide fun for all the family on Easter Weekend.
Have some spare time? Did you know that you can become a volunteer at the East Anglia Transport Museum? There’s loads of great opportunities to get involved, from events and catering to working with the museum’s collections, schools and visitors. For more information on the museum, volunteering or the ‘Larry Lodekka Club’ visit eatransportmuseum.co.uk. You can find out more about visiting and volunteering in Lowestoft’s museums at lowestoftrising.co.uk/lowestoft-rising-with-museums.
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What’s On
What’s on:
M arc h / A pri l
Sat 11th - Sat 17th mar
Fri 30th MAR - Sun 2nd Apr
the big lego build Ipswich Art Gallery | Various Times
Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt Flatford | Various Times Follow the trail through the lovely Flatford countryside, hunt for nature clues and enjoy a yummy Cadbury chocolate egg as your prize! £2.50 per person www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events
We’re celebrating British Science Week in style and bringing in an expert Brickologist to help you create Ipswich town centre in miniature. With the help and support of Brian Hewitt, get stuck in and build as much as you can in these family-friendly build sessions. Come back on March 17th to see the finished build! £3.30 per participant www.cimuseums.org.uk/event
Eastertide Event Kentwell Hall, Long Melford 11am - 5pm
Sat 17th march Silly science for National Science Week Chantry Library, Ipswich Children and their parents/carers are invited to celebrate National Science Week with experiments, stories and crafts. FREE www.suffolklibraries.co.uk
We will have over 100 Tudors around the Manor carrying out various everyday activities as if they were in the year 1594, plus a Children’s Easter egg Trail. See website for prices. www.kentwell.co.uk/events/ tudor/easter-re-creation-tudorlifeevents
New Wolsey Theatre With plenty of exciting, interactive and comedy performances there is entertainment to delight the whole family this Season at the New Wolsey Theatre. Families can enjoy performances at the HEG (High Street Exhibition Gallery) this March. On Sat 24 March, join Taking Flight Theatre Company with You’ve Got Dragons, based on the book by Kathryn Cave. This production has been short listed by Family Arts for the Fantastic for Families Awards in the Best Family Event, and tells the tale of one child’s journey to tame their dragons. All performances will contain creative us of Audio Description, British Sign Language interpretation and Captioning. A brilliantly new comedy from the multi award-winning theatre company This Egg takes place on Sat 31 March inviting you to save the world – one bee at a time with Me & My Bee a brilliantly funny show for children and adults alike!
Easter Holiday shows are now on sale! On Tue 10 April, join the enchanting world of Sarah and Duck as the characters of the BAFTA Awardwinning CBeebies show are brought to life, live on stage. It’s all aboard for a non-stop action packed theatrical experience with live music, puppetry and dastardly dinosaurs’ from Wed 11 to Thu 12 April with Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs 2: The Magic Cutlass. An adaption of the popular children’s book, this performance will delight young audiences on their school holidays! Book now to get the best prices for you and your family. For more information and to book your tickets, call the Ticket Sales team on 01473 295900 or visit www.wolseytheatre.co.uk.
re & Indoor play centnue unique party ve opening ipswich soon www.partymanworld.co.uk 9 Cavendish St, Ipswich IP3 8AX
familiesonline.co.uk Primary Times - 135x90mm.indd 2 2/12/2018 4:36:47 PM
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What’s On Saturday 31st MARch Easter Egg Hunt Chantry Library, Ipswich 10am - 1pm Hunt the Easter Eggs. How many will you find? £1.00 per person
www.suffolklibraries.co.uk Family Treasure Trail East Anglia Transport Museum 12pm - 4.30pm FREE FAMILY EVENT www.eatransportmuseum.co.uk
Sunday 1st April The Gruffalo visits Bressingham Bressingham Steam and Gardens 11am - 4pm The Gruffalo will be making personal appearances at intervals throughout the day. See website for prices www.bressingham.co.uk/events spring Steam up Long Shop Museum, Leiston 10am - 4pm Join us on our annual Spring Steam Up to celebrate the start of a new season. See website for prices www.longshopmuseum.co.uk
Monday 2nd April Easter Egg Trail Ipswich Transport Museum 11am - 4pm An Easter-themed day with eggs for the youngsters and free rides on our vehicles from the museum. Standard Admission Applies www.ipswichtransportmuseum. co.uk/events
Wednesday 4th April Arty EasterStencil Your Street Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich Drop in between 10.30am12.30pm, 1.30pm-3.30pm £4.95 per child. Buy tickets at: www.ipswichregent.com The Great Felixstowe Museum Easter Egg hunt 12.30-2pm & 2.30-4pm
Tuesday 3rd April Arty Easter- Butterfly Printing Ipswich Museum | 11am - 4pm Explore the Museum’s butterfly collection and create your own patterns with press prints and mono printing. £4.95 per child. Buy tickets at: www.ipswichregent.com Easter Eggstravaganza Foxburrow Farm, Woodbridge 1.30pm - 3.30pm Easter trails, crafts and activities. Egg hunts & trails. £4.00 per child www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org
Friday 6th April Little Ones Rollerskating Whitton Sports Centre, Ipswich 12.45-1.45pm
Little ones skating for 3-7year olds. Limited skates are available; please bring your own if you have them. £3 per session
Saturday 7th April
Come and join the giant Languard Bunny for a fun Easter Egg Hunt at Felixstowe Museum. Search the museum for the coloured eggs, then exchange them for a yummy reward! £3.00 per child & adults £2.00 www.felixstowemuseum.org
Thursday 5th April
A Sensory Safari Arger Fen, Sudbury 10.30am-12.30pm Using all our senses we will be exploring Arger Fen. Listening Casual Racquet sports to the sap rising in the trees and Whitton Sports Centre, Ipswich smelling the stitchwort. 12.30pm - 2pm £4.00 per child £3.00 per session www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org 2018 02 Families Mag Children Bdays.qxp_85mm h x 87mm w 15/02/20 Fun Football Session Northgate Sports Centre, Ipswich 10.00am - 11.30am £3 per session - no need to book
The Framlingham Country Show Framlingham College | 10am-5pm The Show with something for everybody. Whatever you want, our shows will have it. If you love Country Shows, are a foodie and would like to watch some amazing cookery demonstrations, fancy some fabulous shopping, learn more about rural crafters and buy yourself some crafts, you can come along and see wonderful producers, loads for the little ones and your four legged family members See website for prices www.classicfestivalstickets.co.uk
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Party planning ideas
Congo Rapids Adventure Golf
Children’s Parties Ufford Park Woodbridge
Treat your little monkeys to a birthday party they’ll remember! What better way for your little monkeys to enjoy their birthday than a party at Congo Rapids Lost World. from just £12.50 per child
t 01394 382836 w www.uffordpark.co.uk
She plays lots of traditional Bunny themed games in your home, garden or other venue encouraging the development of social skills with music and singing. Ideal for pre-school children with quality age appropriate prizes and a fun packed Easter egg hunt.
• First Aid Trained • Enhanced DBS • Equity Member • Public Liability & Professional Indemnity Insurance To discuss your party requirements please call Michelle on: 07770 974971 or email: attrillproductions@talktalk.net
Yarmouth Road | Woodbridge | Suffolk | IP12 1QW
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Families Suffolk: Issue 40
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What’s On
Wildflower Meadow Chantry Park, Ipswich 10.30am-12.30pm Join Suffolk Wildlife Trust and the Urban Buzz project to create wildflower patches in Holywells Park. We will be seeding areas of the park with native wildflower species, creating a vitally important food source and habitat for pollinator species. £4.00 per child & adults £2.00 www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org
Tuesday 10th April Arty EasterFashion Forward Ipswich Museum Drop in between 10.30am12.30pm, 1.30pm-3.30pm Discover the wonderful world of African design through our world culture collections and try your hand at block pattern printing. £4.95 per child. Buy tickets at: www.ipswichregent.com Mud Glorious Mud Foxburrow Farm, Woodbridge 1.30pm - 3.30pm
Make Mud faces, mud pies and take part in a mini-beast hunt. £4.00 per child www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org
Wednesday 11th April
UK’s NO.1
Beauty and the Beast Easter Panto Ipswich Regent 2pm and 6pm Don’t miss another fun-filled Easter pantomime from the same team behind The Wizard of Oz, Robin Hood and Peter Pan. With a star cast, impressive music, energetic dance routines as well as plenty of jokes, slapstick and heaps of audience participation! Our spellbinding pantomime for Easter 2018 tells the story of Beauty who longs for romance and adventure, a bad-mannered Prince who is transformed into a Beast to teach him a lesson and a good Fairy who makes both their dreams come true. Tickets from £19.50 available at: www.ipswichregent.com
FOREST
ADVENTURE
10
PER PERSON*
at Thetford Fo rest, nr. Brandon
Thursday 26th April Once Upon a Labrador, by The Red Rose Chain The Avenue Theatre, Ipswich 7.30-8.30pm Based on true events (until the author’s imagination takes over), dog lovers and owners everywhere will relate to these stories of puppyhood, and the general appeal extends to all age groups, through the wry humour of these carefully crafted verses. £10.00 www.red rosechain. com/onceupon-a-labrador
Newmarket Races QIPCO Guineas Festival Saturday 5th May – Sunday 6th May The season shifts into top gear at the QIPCO Guineas Festival in May! The Bank Holiday weekend sees the first two Classics of the year at Newmarket, with top quality racing the focal point for an amazing occasion suitable for the whole family. There will be entertainment throughout the weekend, including the return of the legendary Après Racing, the official after party at Newmarket Racecourses!
Bet365 Craven Meeting, Tuesday 17-19 April Welcome back to the Home of Horseracing for the 2018 season! Racing returns to the Rowley mile course in Newmarket with the Craven meeting, the traditional curtain raiser for a summer packed with racing. Why not book an early season trip to the races?
k Bookoracaltl g08o45a51p9e30.c72o.u quote SFMAG18 †
*Offer valid until 30th November 2018, excludes Saturdays, bank holidays and purchase of gift vouchers. Discount code must be entered at time of booking. Only valid at Thetford Forest. † Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge. Participation and supervision ratios apply - please see our website.
Registered charity number 1153487 (England and Wales) SC046840 (Scotland). Company limited by guarantee number 08570737.
Sunday 8th April
Find out more at: www.newmarketracecourses.co.uk
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Families Suffolk: Issue 39
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What’s On
Family Fun Days At the races Newmarket Racecourses are the perfect place to horse around – and U18s go free to all the below events, making a trip to the races the best value day out. A family of two adults and any number of children could have a day out this summer for as little as £24 – with fantastic racing guaranteed! REGAL RACEDAY ON THE ROWLEY MILE: Saturday 19 MAY – Regal Raceday Newmarket Racecourses are hosting their very own Regal Raceday to coincide with the wedding of the year. With a big day on the horizon at Windsor Castle, you can join in the festivities on the Rowley Mile. Alongside the fantastic 7 race card, there will be plenty of fun for all ages – with bunting & Union Jacks guaranteed!
SUMMER SATURDAYS AT THE JULY COURSE Saturday 23 JUNE Discovery Day
SATURDAY 21 JULY Great British Summer Day
Explore everything that’s old about Newmarket and take a look back in time to the days when Dinosaurs roamed the high streets! Alongside the racing, there will be plenty of free activities to get stuck into with fossil fun, natural history workshops and explorer games!
From strawberries and cream at Wimbledon to donkey rides and ice cream on a windswept beach, we Brits love our summer! The Great British Summer Day at Newmarket Racecourses is a celebration of everything that is quintessentially British!
SATURDAY 30 JUNE Heroes Day
Put on your best cape and mask and be a hero! It’s Heroes Day at Newmarket Racecourses and there’s an action-packed programme of fun and free activities including an appearance from Paw Patrol’s Chase & Marshal!
SATURDAY: 28 JULY Countryside Day Countryside Day is an actionpacked day featuring fantastic racing and brimming with free rural themed activities and a wide variety of animals including a very special appearance from the spirited and lively Bing & Flop!
SATURDAY 4 AUGUST Sports Day
support a very worthy cause it also promises a great day of racing with lots of entertainment.
SATURDAY 18 AUGUST Horseplay
This family themed Sports Day is all about having a great day out with your nearest and dearest at the Home of Horseracing. There’s thrilling racing (of course!) but there’s also masses of sports based fun and free activities to keep everyone amused throughout the day.
SATURDAY 11 AUGUST Royal British Legion Day Newmarket’s annual Royal British Legion Day is one of the most popular and emotive Summer Saturdays and features a moving Standard Bearers Parade. Not only is it an opportunity to
Returning for 2018, ‘Horseplay’ is a brilliant family raceday which focuses on the magnificent horse and offers you the opportunity to gain even more of an insight into this fantastic sport. The ‘Horseplay Roadshow’ will be on hand throughout the day which gives children the chance to learn through role play and interactive games.
WWW.NEWMARKETRACECOURSES.CO.UK 18
Families Suffolk: Issue 40
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Family offers & competitions
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Competition Win a SleepTalk consultation Answer the questions “Up to what age is SleepTalk designed for?” & tiebreaker “I want to win because………” For terms and conditions visit www.familiesonline
Email your answer along with your name and contact number to: editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk by Friday 27th April 2018.
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