Families Leicestershire and Rutland Mar-Apr 2013

Issue 1 March/April 2013 ®

Easter Holidays

Your guide to what’s on and where

Health

An alternative approach

Park Life

Local country and urban parks

Plus News,What’s On and much more!

Currently distributed in Charnwood, Melton, Harborough & South Leicestershire, Leicester City and Rutland... coming soon in other parts of Leicestershire.

Welcome Hello and welcome to the first issue of Families Leicestershire & Rutland!

As a local mum I’m really excited to bring Families to our part of the country and I hope you’ll look forward to reading it every two months.

Huge thanks to Ian at Ian Knaggs Photography for taking the fab photo on our cover, we had so many lovely images from the photo session it was difficult to pick just one!

We used Easter Eggs and Daffodils but I thought wellies and an umbrella were the perfect choice for our spring issue, I hope you agree!

Regular features will be Education, Health and Parenting as well as lots of useful local information on Clubs and Classes and things to do and places to go.

Please do get in touch with any news, suggestions and recommendations of things you’d like to see in future issues - it’s your magazine too!

Cover photo by Ian Knaggs Photography Ian specialises in Family Portrait Photography either on location or studio-style in your own home Contact Ian on 07948 989199 www.ianknaggsphotography.co.uk All content ©Families 2013 Editor: Email: Website: Tel:

Helen Hill editor@familiesleicestershire.co.uk www.familiesleicestershire.co.uk 07557 967 727

Next Issue: Deadline:

May / June 2013 Early April for editorial and booking

Design: Tel: Email: Website:

Aloha Design Ltd 01509 854292 info@alohadesign.co.uk www.alohadesign.co.uk

Printer: Website:

KPE Creative www.kpecreative.com

Disclaimer Families Leicestershire and Rutland 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 licence.

So get yourself a cup of coffee, sit down somewhere comfy and have a jolly good read!

Don’t forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to be kept up to date with goings on.

Helen Hill, Editor

In this issue 03

News

08

Parenting

04

Mums in Business

10

Clubs & classes

05

Education

12

Park life

06

Health

14

What’s on

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.

Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at owners’ own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter @FamiliesLeics 2

Tel: 0755 7967727

News

From around Leicestershire and Rutland

We love hearing your news! Please email editor@familiesleicestershire.co.uk

Nurseries expand Nurseries are set to look after more children as reforms raise the cap on the number of toddlers and babies they can take. Nurseries will be allowed to increase the number of toddlers they care for under plans aimed at cutting childcare costs, with the Government hoping that raising the number of places available will bring down fees, making it easier for mothers to return to work.The

Nickelodeon’s Dora The Explorer LIVE!

Search for the City of Lost Toys heads to DeMontfort Hall in Leicester from7th to 9th June.

Everyone’s favourite explorer is embarking on a LIVE musical adventure across the UK! In Nickelodeon’s Dora the Explorer LIVE!

current limit of one member of staff to every four toddlers will increase to six two year olds to every childcare worker. The ratios for under 1’s and 1 year olds will also go up from 1:3 to 1:4, although the move is dependent on nurseries having a high proportion of well-qualified staff. The relaxing of the cap on toddler numbers will bring the UK in line with other countries such as Denmark and Ireland. Ratios for ages 3 and higher will remain the same.

Search for the City of Lost Toys, Dora has lost her teddy bear Osito, and the search is on to retrieve him! With the help of the audience, Map, Backpack, Boots, Diego and their courageous friends, Dora uses her map-reading, counting, musical and language skills to successfully pass through the number pyramid and the mixed-up jungle to reach the City of Lost Toys. But watch out - you never know what that sneaky fox Swiper might be up to along the way! Dora the Explorer fans will delight in this two act, song and dance spectacular that invites them to think, sing and play along.

To book tickets visit www.nickjr.co.uk/doralive

New! 360 Play Centre in Leicester A brand new leisure venue offering fun and entertainment for families with children aged up to 12 years old has been opened in Leicester.

Situated at the Meridian Leisure Park, just five minutes from Junction 21 of the M1, the 360 Play family entertainment centre is packed with a variety of activities designed to encourage children to be physically active, while also learning as they play.

With an all-in-one price, no time limits and free parking, 360 Play is the perfect family day out. tel: 01162 894 731 www.360play.uk.com

Calling all Children’s Entertainers, PartyVenues and Party Suppliers Our May/June issue will include a special Children’s Party Feature don’t miss your chance to be included!

Booking deadline early April tel: 0755 7967727 email: editor@familiesleicestershire.co.uk

Distributors Wanted Families Leicestershire & Rutland needs help distributing in Rutland and Harborough.

If you have a car, a few hours to spare every two months and want to earn some extra money please contact Helen on 0755 7967727 or email: editor@familiesleicestershire.co.uk

New Dance Studio opens

in Market Harborough Harborough Academy of Performing Arts are opening fantastic new purpose built dance studios and dance wear shop right in the heart of Market Harborough. An exciting ‘Open Day’ is planned for Sunday 24th March offering an opportunity to visit the studios, meet the teachers and watch dance displays at selected times throughout the day.

All the features of 360 Play are designed to provide creative and stimulating fun whatever the weather, offering the ideal venue for youngsters and their parents to experience something very special in educational play.

Unique to 360 Play venues is the 360 Street creative play zone, where children can let their imagination take over as they play in individual play units such as a fire station, supermarket, vet’s, pizza parlour and dressing up shop. www.familiesleicestershire.co.uk

Let’s Party!

For further information on the open day visit www.harboroughacademy.co.uk Families Leicestershire & Rutland – March / April 2013

3

Mums in business Gorgeous Rag Dolls with a difference!

In September 2012 Dress-A-Doll was launched, an exclusive range of traditional rag dolls with a wardrobe of clothing and accessories. It was a dream Ruth Lord never thought would happen, her own product and her own company!

Ruth comes from a background of seamstresses and started designing and making her own dolls clothes and toys at a young age.

Ruth made the decision to return to her creative roots and started her own business ‘Sew Unique Crafts’ selling embroidered personalised gifts. It was through selling another rag doll (its lack of quality and finish) and listening to customers, that Ruth saw another business opportunity.

Together with her Husband Andy, they spent the next 6 months researching everything from fabrics to eyes and suppliers to safety standards. Thanks to Facebook they now have a fantastic team of crocheters, knitters and seamstresses.

Pictures that make you smile!

Today, Ruth and Andy have a gorgeous Rag Doll, with a special difference. Not only is each face unique but they have developed the dolls hair so that rather than being static, like the current rag dolls on the market, each Dress-A-Doll rag doll has a full head of hair that can be styled again and again – no bald patches here!

Each doll is handcrafted in the UK and finished with love and care. Their rag dolls are CE tested and EN71 approved for children from birth upwards, are fully machine-washable (they are for children after all!) and signed by Ruth with a unique number on their bottom! Register your rag doll and receive birthday cards, postcards, special offers and gifts.

Ruth and Andy have lots of ideas for developing Dress-A-Doll in 2013, from selling in shops and fairs around the country to having their own Flag Ship Store.

in Textile Design. “I have a strong eye for colour and pattern” says Helen, “and my degree involved much experimentation with different media and techniques, some of which I still use today.”

In 1994 Helen began selling her paintings at the Frog and Mouse Picture Company in Leicester and they sold everything she produced! They encouraged her to find publishers for greeting cards and limited edition prints.

Artist, Helen Rhodes was creative even as a little girl and was always drawing, colouring, embroidering or knitting. Her interest in art continued through A levels, a Foundation course and then to Loughborough College of Art and Design where she was awarded a First Class degree 4

Her paintings are the result of many different processes.The first being the preparation of the paper to give texture and an antiquated look.The image is then hand drawn with oil paint and mono printing after which the colours and patterns are applied. “I combine simple, familiar images, humour and naivety with rich, vibrant colours and intricate patterns to produce paintings which maintain a certain amount of preciousness and integrity.”

Helen draws her inspiration from a huge range of sources including childhood memories, nature, historical textiles, real life observations and her imagination! “My own two children, my fantastic husband and our two cats have inspired me to Families Leicestershire & Rutland – March / April 2013

In March 2013 they are also looking forward to launching their first Dress-A-Doll brand of clothing with the ‘Spring Collection’ .

For more information on where to buy Dress-A-Doll Rag Dolls and products, please visit www.dress-a-doll.co.uk or contact Ruth.

Ruth Lord, Dress-A-Doll, tel: 07739 109 027 email: hello@dress-a-doll.co.uk

create beautiful pictures which radiate love, happiness and contentment; qualities which usually make people smile!” eing self-employed gives Helen great flexibility to B work around her children now they are at school.

However the day is fairly short and she finds herself working in the evening to catch up.

Helen is now in full control of the images she has published as limited edition prints and greetings cards.

She has also used her designs on different products such as china mugs, teapots and trinket boxes, porcelain brooches, canvas bags and tea towels. Helen has continued to knit, producing adorable handknitted owls!

Helen’s work and information about open studios, art fairs and other events in which she is involved can be found at www.helenrhodes.com.

Helen is also on Facebook and twitter.

Tel: 0755 7967727

Education How to learn the times tables - by Elizabeth Dolton Learning the times tables is an important skill that is the foundation for all maths.With an extensive maths curriculum, and the latest stipulation being that children should master their tables up to 12x12 by the age of nine, teachers need parents help in getting children to learn the basic facts. Finding a pain-free method of learning times tables is not easy, but these tips and techniques should help you make major progress.

Start with explaining the concept If your child understands that multiplication is repeated addition, they will have an easier time learning them.

Using objects such as crayons, illustrate a simple times table such as 3 X 2. Make two groups of three crayons, then count the crayons. Continue until they understand that multiplication is just adding a series of numbers, 6 x 4 means 6 added together 4 times (6 + 6 + 6 + 6).

Create a number line from 0 to 100. Show them the pattern to working out each multiple, i.e. the three times table answers are every third number.

End by encouraging them to write out the times tables on paper, using addition, up to 12.

Show them the tricks of the trade Now they need to start learning the facts, rather than by counting. Learn the tricks of the trade first, e.g. any number times by 10 is the number with a zero on the end, e.g. 10 x 5 = 50.They are all listed on www.mathsisfun.com/tables.html

Further ways to help them memorise Your aim now is to recite memorized facts quickly and in any order.

If your child is a visual learner, purchase or make flashcards.Write the problem, like 4 x 9, on the front, and the answer, 36, on the back. Buy or create a times table poster and display key facts.

Times tables raps and music CDs are great for an auditory learner. Chant the times tables as multiples 0, 5, 10, 15, etc. and also as sentences 1×5=5, 2×5=10, etc. Say difficult times tables in

www.familiesleicestershire.co.uk

have to be material things, just a bit of fun together.

Take breaks often, relax, give lots of ‘high fives’, and real compliments.

a funny voice, a squeak or a whisper. Use helpful rhymes to remember really tricky ones, e.g. 8 x 8 = 64 becomes “He ate and he ate and he sticks in the door, eight times eight is sixty-four”.

For a kinaesthetic approach, add actions.

Children can clap, stamp or jump on the difficult fact. Play ‘Knock, Knock’ –knock your fists twice on the floor, then put out the number of fingers of a times tables.The winner is the first to say the answer.

And keep it up!

After memorising times tables, it can be all too easy to forget them! Don’t give up too soon. It can take six or seven weeks until the facts are truly automatic. Practice quick-fire drilling.There are numbers everywhere, so multiply the digits in number plates or in recipes. Print out a times table square and keep a record of the tables your child knows well, so you know which ones you need to focus on.

Whichever method you choose, there is never a truly pain-free answer because real fluency requires real practice over weeks and months.

That said, it is important for your child to have a secure knowledge of the times tables with instant recall - their future maths skills depend on it. So take the challenge, make it happen, and enjoy it!

Games to reinforce the multiplication facts

After your child has a basic knowledge of the tables, games will help instil the recollection of correct facts quickly. Multiplication Bingo, Hoo Ha!, KnowYour Times Tables and Math Whiz are great board games.

There are a whole host of multiplication computer games – multiplication.com, Learn-timestables. com, themathsfactor.com, mathsisfun.com, maths-games.org, and Burton Road computer apps such as Melton Mowbray Squeebles, Ghost Blasters, Multiple Wipeout. Another Are you looking for hourly, full-time idea is to print off or part time care for your child? worksheets from We are open all year round Multiplication.com or 7am - 6.30pm Monday to Friday Enchanted Learning, and provide facilities for children math.about.com from 6 weeks through to 8 years of age.

Keep it fun Hallelujah!Your continued energy and enthusiasm is very important – go at their pace and always praise their efforts. Aim to reward your children with every bit of progress made; it doesn’t

‘One-offs‛ available Also flexible shift bookings Free trial sessions available Before and after school care.

Open 7am - 6.30pm Monday to Friday 15 hours FREE educational child care available per week for 3-5 year olds in our pre school room

Families Leicestershire & Rutland – March / April 2013

5

Health Cranio-Sacral Therapy - a gentle way of healing for mums and babies - by Priti Coles The journey that brings us into this world is our most challenging. There we are in a warm bubble of fluid, safe, protected and warm when all hell breaks loose. Suddenly being forced head first down a canal too narrow for easy passage, causing intense compression and distortion on every part, not forgetting the rotation! This causes pressure and impinges on our organs, blood vessels and brain.We feel physical force and shock and if complications arise we could be helped into the world with forceps, ventouse or a c-section.

An adult could not cope with this shock and trauma yet a newborn is expected to!

Although babies can’t speak, shock from the birthing process may show up as, colic, crying, screaming, agitation, restlessness, poor sleep patterns, digestive or feeding problems, distortion of bones in the head and face and many other conditions.

A natural approach to allergy and hay fever - by Maire Lenagh

Some gentle help

Cranio-Sacral therapy facilitates the body’s natural inherent power of self healing. It is gentle, subtle, non-invasive but extremely powerful. A profound healing process that works on physical and psychological levels and is uniquely effective in dealing with the effects of birth trauma and relieving many common childhood conditions.

Using a very gentle touch or off the body, the therapist tunes in, listens and palpates baby’s inherent rhythms or pulses. These pulses are expressed in the cerebral spinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The therapist identifies pulls, twists, tension and restricted movements that have accumulated through birth or subsequent accidents, illnesses, injuries and stresses. By releasing these tensions/restrictions the body’s natural vitality and inherent healing potential is restored, relieving the symptoms and eliminating the underlying causes. Babies can be treated whilst of the highest rates of allergic disease in the world and one of the highest rates of hay fever and asthma in Europe. It would appear from reports that some people are no longer growing out of childhood hay fever and there are more cases of late-onset hay fever in adults.

Homeopathy is a system of medicine, over two hundred years old, which uses highly diluted substances therapeutically to stimulate the body’s © Serhiy Kobyakov - Fotolia.com In the last few decades natural system of healing. Despite the extreme

GP diagnoses of dilutions – which make them non-toxic allergic rhinitis, which laboratory experiments have repeatedly

includes allergies to demonstrated that these substances do cause

pollen, animal fur and biological effects.

dust mite, have greatly

increased. Symptoms Can Homeopathy help?

Results from several observational studies indicate

include a persistently

runny nose, sneezing, that homeopathy appears to have high levels of clinical effectiveness in the treatment of people

itching and sore eyes with allergy related problems such as eczema

and can last all year round for many sufferers. Allergies have gone from and asthma. Homeopathy is a holistic approach and treats each person as an individual. Allergies being relatively rare to being something that now happen when the immune system over-reacts to affects 40-50% of children in some inner cities. substances which should not cause a problem, and According to the national medical charity Allergy with carefully selected medicines a homeopath will UK, over 40% of the UK population are affected aim to strengthen the immune system to overcome by allergies generally, and studies suggest that this reaction. one third of the total UK population will develop allergy at some time in their lives.The UK has one 6

Families Leicestershire & Rutland – March / April 2013

asleep, feeding, in mum’s arms, playing, or on a treatment couch.

Don’t forget mum!

Both parents can be treated, enabling them to manage and cope with the massive changes (physical and mental). Mum is likely to heal much quicker and be more relaxed.The treatment creates a circle of peace and tranquility that helps dissipate stress and anxiety leading to happy, healthy childhoods and better relationships and communication later on in life.

Priti Coles is a registered Cranio-Sacral Therapist based in Leicestershire.

For further information or to book an appointment contact Priti on 0116 2841944 or 07795 361 288 or email: pritibodies1@gmail.com Ref:The Cranio-sacral Therapy Education Trust via Facebook www.ccst.co.uk Acute attacks of hay fever can respond well to generally indicated homeopathic medicines bought over the counter from health stores and Boots chemists.These include Weleda Mixed Pollen (containing a mixture of grasses, cereals, tree blossom and weeds), or New Era Combination H, for hay fever and allergic rhinitis. However, allergies are usually deep-seated problems, and are best addressed long term with the help of an experienced practitioner who will provide a carefully chosen individual prescription.

Homeopathic medicines can be used alongside conventional medication where needed, and will not conflict with other prescriptions.

Maire Lenagh is a Registered Homeopath, practicing in Quorn.

Contact - 07969 734945

The Little Things Unique party bags

decorations for children lovethelittlethings.co.uk

Tel: 0755 7967727

Wireless technology: can you feel the force? - by Helena Foss Can you remember a life before mobiles and texting? I often let my five-year-old son play games on my mobile.That’s normal, isn’t it? There is wifi in most schools and there are phone masts on top of the tower block where my son’s school friend lives. In the past, community activists campaigned against such things.Today, they are simply part of the landscape. But surely this technology wouldn’t be allowed if it wasn’t proven to be safe, would it?

© Tatyana Gladskih - Fotolia.com

OK, so here is a little basic info Electromagnetic radiation (EMR) is basically microwave radiation. Small doses, of course, will not kill you. (In fact, I would say microwave ovens are lifesaving at stress o’clock when the kids are famished and you resort to heating up a frozen ready meal!) But do we want this kind of invisible energy in our homes all the time? WiFi and cordless phones, we often forget, are all EMR-emitting devices too.

The fact is that telecommunications industryfunded research says that EMR poses less danger than independent scientists say it does. Plus, the effects of EMR on children, whose skulls are thinner and whose brains are still developing, is still not fully researched or understood. In 2011, the World Health Organisation classified EMR from mobile phones as “possibly carcinogenic” and, according to a Daily Telegraph report in October 2012, a link between heavy mobile use (up to six hours a working day over 12 years) and brain tumours, was upheld in an Italian court (an employee was suing his employer).The Telegraph has also reported a link found with hyperactivity and poor memory in adult offspring of pregnant mice exposed to cellphone radiation by researchers atYale University.

OK, so let’s not panic – but let’s not ignore the issue either. Whilst the scientific debate continues, when it comes to erring on the side of precaution, www.familiesleicestershire.co.uk

As the more powerful G4 network is being rolled out across the nation, I think it’s wise to at least question the safety of wireless technology. Especially in light of the recent roll call of unethical activity in once trusted institutions: banking (once a paragon of respectability); Sir Jimmy Savile (OBE no less); BBC management; abuse in care homes; corporate tax avoidance (one rule for the rich, another for the poor); Rupert Murdoch’s News International debacle; and prestigious medical journals losing credibility due to industry funding that skews research in drug corporations’ favour. An ex-editor of a reputable medical journal has estimated this accounts for at least two thirds of trials published in major journals. http://bit.ly/QuPaRg Blimey! Is nothing sacred anymore?

I’m with Edmund Burke who said: “Nobody made a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he could do only a little.” It’s like insurance, you don’t need it until you find it’s too late.

Simple tips to keep your family safe (just in case it isn’t) • Always turn your wifi router off at night (just a switch).

• Never put your mobile close to your baby’s head, nor let them use it as a toy. Think twice about whether your cordless baby monitor is necessary or place it as far as possible from baby. These devices also emit EMR, they work with Wifi after all.

• Carry your phone in your bag, not your pocket. Manufacturer’s small print warns users to keep mobiles away from the body, even though advertising campaigns show the opposite.

• The NHS advises children and teenagers to text or make short, essential calls only.The further away from the body/ears the better.

• Do not let your teenager sleep next to their phone at night (and especially not keep it under their pillow Families Leicestershire & Rutland – March / April 2013

for secret texting). (See the NHS leaflet on familiesonline.co.uk/radiation).

• Do not use your phone as an alarm clock next to your head.

• Go back to a corded phone. No re-wiring is required, simply buy two Ethernet boxes to plug in computers and laptops to your regular electricity socket. Radiation from cordless (DECT) phones is intense, and in some cases higher than a mobile phone (models/devices vary in intensity, check SAR levels).

• Get informed. We’ve collated lots of useful websites, articles, reports, videos etc. here: www.familiesonline.co.uk/radiation Further Information A comprehensive report on controversies in current EMR research: http://archive. radiationresearch.org/pdfs/15reasons.asp

7

Parenting

Night night, sleep tight...

How to stop your child waking in the night - by Kathryn Mewes

RCST

Do you walk around in a daze, feeling you are in a permanent cloud? Rest assured you are not alone. Deprivation of sleep is something that every parent experiences, but when it starts to become part of your everyday life then it is time to stop and ask “Is this how I want it to stay?”

First of all, it is important to understand children’s sleep cycles. Children tend to be awake for a 12–13 hour day before they reach their ‘window of tiredness’. If a child wakes at 6–7am they will need to be in their nursery by 6.50pm with lights out by 7pm if they’re to get to sleep easily.

If you miss this window of tiredness your child will get their ‘second wind’, lasting for one sleep cycle (90 minutes). This means that they will not settle again until 8.30pm.

Secondly, it is good to remember that all of us, even adults, wake on average 6 times a night. The difference is we know how to settle ourselves and return to sleep. Babies are not born with this skill of self-settling and need to be taught.You can’t make your baby sleep, but you can teach them how to put themselves to sleep.

A top tip to help your baby settle themselves is to keep their room dark. If your child comes into a light sleep and can see things around them they won’t be encouraged to go back to sleep.

Sprinkle water over the window panes in the nursery and press sheets of foil to the windows.

Cut the foil close to the frame and this will block out 100% of the light.

Samantha’s story:

Enough is enough I need someone to help me!

I called on Kathryn Mewes, author of The 3 Day Nanny, to help with my 5 year old’s sleep problems. We had got ourselves into a situation where we sat with him for up to 45 minutes each night until he fell asleep. It didn’t stop there. If he woke in the night he would come into our bed, and I would be breastfeeding my daughter while losing precious sleep space to my son. I had got to a stage of thinking my son would never sleep in his own bed. Kathryn claimed that she could solve any challenge in 3 days, but she hadn’t met my son!

However, Kathryn soon devised a reward system, giving my son incentives.

Night 1 When it came to bedtime the message was simple. A relaxing routine followed by saying ‘Goodnight. I’ll see you at breakfast time.’

Kathryn walked out of the bedroom with ease and confidence … only to be followed by my son! She returned him to his room with an air of calm even though he was protesting, and every step of the way she explained what she was doing.

8

After 30 minutes my son realised that this was the way it was going to be. This may sound a long time but it was taking longer when sitting on his carpet waiting for him to fall asleep.

He did wake that night, but instead of allowing him into my room Kathryn guided him back to bed. In the morning I found Kathryn and my son working on their reward system. I could see a change in him instantly - he had someone believing in him. He could sleep through the night.

Night 2 As you can imagine, my son gave me quite a run for my money, but the most important thing Kathryn taught me was how a child can sense your emotions. If I wanted to get him to stay in his bed he had to believe hat I was serious and that I was not going to back down. I had to remain calm yet in control, and 20 minutes later he stayed in his bed.

That night he slept through until morning.

Night 3 By night 3 my son knew the routine. He let me put him to bed and leave the room. It was all so straightforward. Why hadn’t I done this sooner?

Families Leicestershire & Rutland – March / April 2013

Kathryn’s Top Tips for Solid Sleep

• R emain consistent with the 3 B’s - Bath, Book/Bottle, Bed. • Get your children to bed at the right time - aim to be leaving their bedroom at 7pm • Have your own little routine in the bedroom that should last no longer than 20 minutes.

The longer you stay the harder it is to leave • Ensure the room is dark when you leave • Have the door closed or pulled to. The door only opens when it is breakfast time • Don’t react to your child’s requests. No more talking after ‘See you at breakfast time’ • Create a reward system for an older child to encourage them to remain in their bed A silent night can be achieved. Believe in yourself and your child, remain consistent and it only need take 3 nights. I promise!

By Kathryn Mewes, author of ‘The 3 Day Nanny’ published by Vermillion, £12.99.

Kathryn also provides a bespoke service.

Call 07787 821525 or go to www.bespokenanny.com.

Tel: 0755 7967727

Book reviews

Reviewed by Jan Deykin

Reviewed by Rosie Elphinstone

Show me a story

Love Bombing - Reset Your Child’s Emotional Thermostat - by Oliver James

A wonderful book to help you inspire children’s imaginations.

Specifically written to develop children’s storytelling skills, it has 40 projects and activities for a single child or big group.The idea is that children make props then use them as prompts to kick-start and develop stories. Paint characters on stones; invent the history of an everyday object; pass on a plot with Story Ping Pong! It also guides adults on encouraging storytelling and how to structure stories. Perfect at home, outside or traveling, this is a fabulous, fun resource full of colourful photographs.

Love Bombing is an interesting and innovative way of addressing a wide range of emotionally challenging behaviour with the aim of getting the parent-child relationship back on track. It is a very accessible self-help book. Oliver James starts by explaining what Love Bombing is and how and why it works. Each chapter looks at

- by Emily K Neuburger

Published by Storey Publishing RRP £11.99 Paperback ISBN 9781603429887

Families Rating: 6 out of 6

Reviewed by Louise Turner

Dear Son, what I wish I’d known at your age - by Roy Sheppard

Roy Sheppard has managed to articulate clearly some basic and practical “real-world” advice on what it is to be a man in the 21st century. Roy’s well-conceived guidance is designed

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the types of behaviour that cause the relationship problems and then documents relevant case studies of Love Bombing being applied, the outcomes and longer term behavioural change. I found it both an intriguing and inspiring read and would recommend it to any parent seeking to improve their relationship with their child.

Published by Karnac Books RRP £9.99 Paperback ISBN 9781780491370

Families Rating: 5 out of 6

Teaching Kids To Be Good People

- by Annie Fox, M.Ed

Annie Fox evidently has lots of experience in helping young people and is passionate about her work. This comes across strongly in her book which I found to be an exceptionally good read. Her definition of a ‘good’ person comprises many qualities – all teachable rather than innate.

Each section of the book is illustrated with real

life scenarios, plenty of learning and self-evaluation opportunities, quizzes and empowerment tools. The book is full of insight, wisdom and sensible, practical advice.

It would be easy for such a parenting guide to be condescending, but Annie writes with such genuine warm-heartedness, humour and self-deprecating humility that she takes you with her all the way. Highly recommended.

to help young men gain a better understanding of themselves, their masculinity and the world around. Topics include: what you need to know about the world of work, what rich people know about money that poor people don’t, understanding your emotions, how to develop confident relationships with others, how to gain a better understanding of women, understanding risk, how to build a solid

personal and professional reputation, negotiating and other life skills.

Families Leicestershire & Rutland – March / April 2013

Published by Electric Eggplant RRP £9.95 Paperback ISBN 9781480083936

Families Rating: 5 out of 6

Published by Centre Publishing RRP £11.99 Paperback ISBN 978-1901 534-214

Families Rating: 5 out of 6 9

Clubs & Classes Calling all budding actors ParsnipsYouth Theatre is running an Easter Scheme between the 2nd and 4th April. If you are a budding actor, between the ages of 8 and 18 years then why not join them for what promises to be a fun and creative three days.

Four highly trained theatre professionals will teach the scheme.This years theme is ‘Sleep and Dreams’ and this will be explored through varied theatrical techniques. A showcase performance will then be staged for friends and family.

The scheme is a fabulous way to make new friends,

hone your theatrical skills and have an awful lot of fun in a safe and welcoming environment.

The scheme will be held at the new HAPA premises, 80 St Mary’s Road, Market Harborough LE16 7DX.

Designed to encourage babies and young children to enjoy the benefits and joys of song and dance from a young age, Babyballet has built up a fantastic reputation for providing children with the opportunity to express themselves within a fun, safe and caring environment.

For more information or to sign up please contact Claire on tel: 07950468887 or email: parsnip27@hotmail.com

Babyballet Leicester South classes are run by Miss Stef on Wednesday,Thursday and Saturday mornings in Countesthorpe and Whetstone.

No experience is necessary, just a willingness to take part.

Celebrating 25 Years of Stagecoach been fully CRB checked.With industry experience in choreography, singing, directing and acting, teachers are experts in their chosen field.

Early Stages is a class designed to introduce young children aged 4-6 years to drama, dance and singing classes in a 90 minute session, split into 30 minute classes. Children aged 6-18 years participate in the three disciplines of the performing arts in a weekly three hour session.

Stagecoach Leicester

Stagecoach is the longest running and most successful performing arts schools network in the world. To celebrate Stagecoach’s 25th Anniversary all the children from Stagecoach Leicester will be participating in a Show at a prestigious venue.

Another lovely opportunity for the students at Stagecoach Leicester was when some of them performed at the ‘Warwick Arts Centre’ in February. They are also looking forward to performing at ‘DeMontfort Hall’ in March as extras and singers in Ellen Kent’s famous operas ‘Carmen’ and ‘Tosca’.

Stagecoach Leicester provides quality part-time training in the performing arts for children aged 4-18yrs. Students participate in all three performing arts disciplines, drama, dance and singing classes, helping to develop confidence, physical awareness, communication and articulation, as well as being educational and fun.

Classes are run by professional teachers who have

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Baby Ballet

Stagecoach Leicester runs classes within two locations, Guthlaxton College and Leicester High School for Girls. For further information contact Principal Terrie Dodds.

Tel: 0116 232 1444 Mobile: 07939 109162 www.stagecoach.co.uk/leicester

Hartbeeps launches classes in Harborough Donna Smith has recently launched Hartbeeps South Leicestershire with classes in Market Harborough and Braybrooke. Hartbeeps is a multi-sensory music group offering magical sound journeys for babies and toddlers aged 0-5 years.

‘Babybells, ’for babies from birth to sitting, uses some of the principles from baby yoga. It offers mothers a practical tool kit of lullabies, rhymes, tickle tunes, creative movement, relaxation and songs.

Families Leicestershire & Rutland – March / April 2013

6 to 18 Months -Twinkle’s Tots classes are a musical playtime with singing, mime, toys and socialising for parent/carer and baby to enjoy together.You are sure to meet new friends at these welcoming sessions.

18 Months to 3 years -Toddlers and children are encouraged to develop and explore their ability to move, sing and dance further as they progress through the Tiny Toes syllabus and the basics of ballet are introduced.

3 to 4 years -The Mini Movers syllabus allows the children to enhance their movement, singing and imaginative ability further.The children learn basic principles and social skills which will serve them well as they approach school age.

Cost: £15 for a 3 week taster course.

Contact details: Miss.Stef on 07799890096, leicestersouth@babyballet.co.uk, www.babyballet.co.uk ‘Babybeeps’ classes are for babies from sitting to walking and are very innovative and rich in language development.

Hartbeeps ‘Happy House’ classes are for children from walking to 5 years. Each session is themed and every class is backed by pre-recorded timed and skillfully produced soundtracks.

For further information on classes please contact Donna on 07584 033108 or email donna@hartbeeps.com

Tel: 0755 7967727

Classified listings Harborough Academy of Performing Arts First class tuition in many styles of Dance and Musical Theatre Singing for all ages from 3 years to adults.

Classes in Market Harborough and Uppingham For further details telephone 0116 2792194 or visit www.harboroughacademy.co.uk

The Creation Station South Leicestershire Children’s birthday parties and Arts & Crafts classes for babies, toddlers and pre-school children.

Contact Louise Hill on 0844 854 9132 email: louisehill@thecreationstation.co.uk www.thecreationstation.co.uk

Uppingham Shotokan Karate Club

Learn the fascinating art of karate Beginners welcome from age 4 years to adult Great Family rates Every Monday, 6.15pm at Uppingham Sports Centre, Contact Mr Hogan on 07548 784929 or 01536 746182 www.tiskakarate-uppingham.co.uk

Baby Yoga and Pregnancy Yoga

Mondays 1.30 - 2.00pm (baby) 7.00 - 8.15pm (pregnancy) St Johns the Baptist Church Rooms Clarendon Park Road, Leicester LE2 3AD Pregancy classes, Thursday 6pm in Blaby Yogatone classes 7.30pm Contact Christine Powell on 0771 267 3766

Hartbeeps South Leicestershire

Multi-sensory music sessions for babies & toddlers aged 0-5 years Monday – Market Harborough, Wednesday – Braybrooke To book email: donna@hartbeeps.com tel: 07584 033108 www.hartbeeps.com

Easter Holiday Activities Art and Sport Camps

Have quality time with your baby at relaxed and friendly classes run by IAIM certified and experienced tutor and mother of 4.

Classes and home visits in and around Leicester Contact Sue Baughan on 07782 383217 email: sue.baughan@btopenworld.com www.babymassageleicester.com

Rawlins College, Loughborough Road, Quorn, LE12 8DY Monday 25th to Thursday 28th March and Tuesday 2nd to Friday 5th April 10am - 4pm with extra time available from 8.30 to 10am and 4pm to 5.30pm.

For children aged 5 to 16 years.

Art Camp: £17 per day; Sports Camp:£15 per day.

Early booking discount of £1 per day before 17th March, extra time costs £3 per session with no early booking discount.

TinyTalk Leicester

Media and Performing Arts Camp

Baby Massage Classes (for babies 0 - 6 months)

Wednesday 3rd April and Thursday 4th April For children aged 8 to 14 years. £25 with £1 early booking discount before 17th March.

Because babies have so much to say.

Baby signing and Toddler talking teacher Contact Heather on 07891912145 email: heathera@tinytalk.co.uk www.tinytalk.co.uk/heathera

Girls football Camp

Parsnips Youth Theatre/Rutland Youf Artz Expert theatrical training for young people aged 8 - 18 years Market Harborough and Uppingham email parsnip27@hotmail.com www.parsnipsyouththeatre.co.uk

www.familiesleicestershire.co.uk

Thursday 4th and Friday 5th April For children aged 8 to 14 years. £25 with an early booking discount before 17th March.

Extra time available before and after camps.

To book please phone 01509 622827 or enrol online www.rawlinscollege.org.uk

Families Leicestershire & Rutland – March / April 2013

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Park Life

Local country and urban parks

Hopefully as spring arrives so will some sunshine and we can all look forward to getting out in the fresh air and enjoying the lovely countryside and parks that we have in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. Here is just a small selection of what’s out there for families.

Beacon Hill

Watermead Watermead Abbey Park Country Park South Country Park North Main entrance, Abbey Park Road, Leicester Alderton Close off Melton Road, Leicester LE4 7RN www.leicester.gov.uk/parks

Off Wanlip Road, near Syston, LE7 1PD www.leics.gov.uk/watermead.

Visit this park for pleasant walks and beautiful scenery and to see the life size sculpture of a woolly mammoth which overlooks the park.

Car parking is £2.50 per car, machine only accepts coins and does not give change or issue tickets.

The latest addition to this park is The Climate Trial. A play trail based around Climate Change, with the aim of teaching youngsters and adults alike what climate change is and what can be done to fight against it. Exciting climbing equipment and scrambling trails dotted with environmental messages lead to a central wooded arena where the challenges that face future generations are highlighted with stunning icons of climate change.

This Country Park is nearly two miles long and comprises over 12 lakes and smaller ponds, wildflower meadows, woodland and grassland.

Ideal for walking, cycling, picnics, bird watching and fishing. Most of the paths are surfaced making it buggy-friendly.

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The Jurassic Play Trail which features an earthmound, a rib-cage climbing frame, a henge-feature and stepping stones, is great for children of all ages to explore.

Families Leicestershire & Rutland – March / April 2013

www.leicester.gov.uk/parks

Abbey Park is Leicester’s premier urban park with lots to do for families.The boating lake, where pedal boats can be hired, is open from Easter Good Friday, Leicestershire School Holidays, Bank Holidays and weekends, weather permitting.

There is a large play area suitable for children of all ages and grassed areas for ball games.

A state of the art playground encourages children to engage in physical activity, as well as providing a place for social interaction and fun.

Children love to visit Pets Corner where there is a variety of animals to enjoy. Other facilities include a cafe and a miniature railway (open most Sundays throughout the summer).

Tel: 0755 7967727

Market Bosworth Country Park Park Street, CV13 0LP www.leics.gov.uk/bosworthpark.

Car parking is £2.50 per car, machine only accepts coins and does not give change or issue tickets.

Located on the eastern edge of Market Bosworth town, this landscaped park, which was formerly part of Bosworth Hall deer parkland, has a network of buggy friendly paths.

There is plenty to see and do here for families and lots of space for children to run around.This park also has a children’s play area, picnic areas, a lake, an arboretum with a collection of exotic trees and a wildflower meadow.

Market Bosworth Country Park

Melton Country Park Wymondham Way, LE13 1HP www.melton.gov.uk Just 10 minutes walk from the centre of Melton Mowbray, this park has grassland, short mown grass areas, wildflower meadows, woodlands, lakes and a network of paths for walking and cycling.

There are several areas dedicated to formal play, including a small play area next to the visitor centre, a large play area at the southern end of the park and scattered play equipment for more adventurous play. Other facilities include a visitor centre and café and ample car parking.

This park was short listed, along with 25 other locations nationwide, as one of the best places in the country to have a picnic.

Beacon Hill Upper Car Park: Beacon Road, LE12 8SP/ Lower Car Park: Breakback Road, LE12 8TA. Both use an automated pay on entry system £2.50 per car, machine only accepts coins and does not give change or issue tickets. www.leics.gov.uk/beacon Beacon Hill is the second highest point in Leicestershire, visitors can explore an extensive network of paths, enjoy picnics and barbeques and discover the wonderful views of the surrounding countryside that can be seen from the summit.

The lower Beacon is great for families. Children love The Labyrinth, a wooden boardwalk winding through the twisted rhododendron with hidden sculptures.

There is also a large flat grassy area perfect for games and in the natural play area children can sit on the log train, or find their way through the hazel maze. www.familiesleicestershire.co.uk

Families Leicestershire & Rutland – March / April 2013

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What’s on

Around Leicestershire and Rutland

Whilst we do our very best to be accurate please always check with the venue before you set off just in case details have changed.

To include any future events in this section please email: editor@familiesleicestershire.co.uk

Mother’s Day Lunch at Beaumanor Hall

Woodhouse, Leicestershire, LE12 8TX Sunday 10th March Adults £21.50, Children (3-10yrs) £11.75 Pre-booking essential T: 01509 890119

Mother’s Day at Barnsdale Gardens Barnsdale Gardens,The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, LE15 8AH 10th March, gardens open 9am-5pm Treat Mum to a wonderful day out at Barnsdale Gardens.

Mums (accompanied by children) visit FREE! Garden admission: Adult: £6.50; Concession: £5.50; Child: £2.50 (under 5’s free); Family: £16.00 (2 adults + 3 children) T: 01572 813 200 E: info@barnsdalegardens.co.uk www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk

Meet Peppa & George

Great Central Railway, Loughborough, LE11 1RW Sat 9th & Sun 10th March £34.00 (2 adults and up to 3 children) £23.00 (1 adult and up to 3 children) Booking office: 01509 632323 www.gcrailway.co.uk

NCT Leicester Spring Nearly New Sale

Beaumont Leys School, Anstey Lane, Leicester LE4 0FL Saturday 16th March, 1.30 - 3.00pm NCT Leicester branch, E: NCTleicester@hotmail.com

Archery Antics

Jewry Wall Museum, 156-160 St Nicholas Circle Leicester LE1 4LB Sunday 24th March, 11:30am - 3:30pm (Archery 12:30pm - 2:00pm) Enjoy medieval mayhem with craft activities and a museum trail.Try your hand at archery with the Leicester Outdoor Pursuit Centre team! £2.50 per person all activities £1.00 per person archery only.

Tel: 0116 225 4971 www.lopc.co.uk

Model Railway Day

Abbey Pumping Station, Corporation Road, Leicester LE4 5PX Saturday 6th April, 11.00am - 4.30pm Exhibition of working model railway layouts by Leicester Model Railway Group and other modellers. Take a ride on the museum’s narrow gauge railway and follow a railway trail around the museum.

Admission free (small charge for train rides) Tel: 0116 299 5111 www.abbeypumpingstation.org

Spring Birdwatch

Barnsdale Gardens,The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, LE15 8AH 28 April, 11am-3pm Join local bird expert Philip Rudkin for a wildlife-spotting tour.

Children can have fun with the popular bird-themed makes.

No booking necessary.

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Garden admission: Adult: £6.50; Concession: £5.50; Child: £2.50 (under 5’s free); Family: £16.00 (2 adults + 3 children) T: 01572 813 200 E: info@barnsdalegardens.co.uk www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk

THEATRES De Montfort Hall

MUSEUMS & LIBRARIES Celebrating World Book Day Wrigglies Birstall Library,Wanlip Lane, Birstall, LE4 4JU Monday 4th March, 10.00-10.30am Suitable for under 5’s T: 0116 3058756

Granville Road, Leicester LE1 7RU Officially Amazing Science Live Wed 27th March, 7pm Tickets: £15.00 Adult, £13.00 child, Family (4) £50.00 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom Tue 2nd April, 4pm;Wed 3rd April, 10am, 1pm & 4pm Tickets: £11.50 & £13.50, Family (4) £45 Box Office: 0116 233 3111 www.demontforthall.co.uk

Celebrating World Book Day Wrigglies

Curve

Syston Library, Upper Church Street, Syston, LE7 1HR Thursday 7th March, 10.00-10.30am Suitable for under 5’s T: 0116 3053500

Rutland Street, Cultural Quarter, Leicester, LE1 1SB The Animals & Children Took to the Streets Tue 26th - Wed 27th March, Studio Tue & Wed 7.45pm;Wed 2.30pm Tickets: Adults £15, Child £10 The Ugly Duckling Thu 28th March, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, Studio Tickets £5 Three Billy Pigs Tue 26th March 11am & 1pm Tickets £5 Tinderbox Sat 30th March 11am & 1pm Tickets £5 Rumpelstiltskin & The Wheel of Fortune Sat 6th April 11am & 1pm Old Mother Hubbard Sat 27th April 11am & 1pm Tickets £5 Box Office: 0116 242 3595 www.curveonline.co.uk

Loughborough Town Hall

Market Place, Loughborough, LE11 3EB Annie Tue 12th - Sat 16th March, 7.30pm; matinee 2.30pm Sat 16th March Tickets:Tue 12th, 7.30pm & Sat 16th, 2.30pm £11 Wed 13th,Thu 14th, Fri 15th, Sat 16th 7.30pm £13 Sock - Leicestershire’s Premier Arts & Crafts Fair Sat 23rd & Sun 24th March, 10am - 4pm in the Main Hall Entrance to the public is Free Wind in the Willows Tue 2nd April, 2pm Tickets £7.00 Suitable for age 5+ The Pied Piper Thu 4th April, 2pm Tickets £7.00 Suitable for ages 5-7 Robin Hood and his Merry Men Sun 7th April, 2pm Tickets £8 Suitable for age 4+ Box Office: 01509 231914 www.loughboroughtownhall.co.uk

Families Leicestershire & Rutland – March / April 2013

Loughborough Library, Granby Street, LE11 3DZ Thursday 7th March, 10.00-10.30am Suitable for under 5’s T: 0116 3052420

Celebrating World Book Day Wrigglies

Eggstravaganza with Egg Hunt Rothley Library, Mountsorrel Lane, Rothley, LE7 7PS Monday 25th March, 2.15 - 3.30pm Age 5-10 years, pre-booking essential T: 0116 3053671

Sunny Spring

Abbey Pumping Station, Corporation Rd Leicester, LE4 5PX Tuesday 26th March, 11.00am – 3.00pm Make a sun catcher to hang in your window. Make a basket and collect your eggs then follow a trail round the museum £2.00 for activities.

T: 0116 299 5111 www.abbeypumpingstation.org

Egg-cellent Easter Fun

Wigston Library, Bull Head Street,Wigston, LE18 1PA Tuesday 26th March, 2.00-3.30pm Age 4-10 years Pre-booking advisable £1.00 per child T: 0116 3053689

Easter Bunny’s Bedtime Stories

Melton Mowbray Library,Wilton Road, LE13 0UJ Tuesday 26th March, 6.00-7.00pm Join us at the Library for bedtime stories. Come in your pyjamas and bring a teddy to enjoy stories and simple craft, with milk and cookies. Ages 4-8 years £1.00 per child, pre-booking essential.

T: 0116 3053646

Bouncing Bunnies

Wygston House, 12 Applegate, Leicester LE1 5LD Thursday 28th March, 11.00am – 3.00pm Make an Easter headdress, baskets and help decorate our giant bunny. Hop round to find the answers to the quizzes and trail and enjoy face painting. £2.50 for activities.

T: 0116 253 2569 www.leicester.gov.uk

New Walk Museum & Art Gallery

53 New Walk, Leicester, LE1 7EA Until Sunday 7th April Inside DNA - a unique exhibition all about you, your health, your identity and your ancestry featuring interactive exhibits.

Tel: 0755 7967727

Inclusion in this section is free, please email: editor@familiesleicestershire.co.uk Free admission T: 0116 225 4900 www.leicester.gov.uk/museums

Get Creative Fortnight

Oadby Library, 10 The Parade, Oadby, LE2 5BF Saturday 13th April - Saturday 27th April Series of creative workshops, talks and fun events for all ages.

Pre-booking advisable Contact Library for more details.

T: 0116 3058763

Charnwood Museum

Charnwood Museum, Queens Park, Granby Street, Loughborough LE11 3DU ArtZone For children aged 8 - 15 years. 10.30am-12.30pm, Saturday’s in term-time.

2nd March ‘Brilliantly Naïve’ Painting workshop with Vanessa Rose 9th March ‘Say It With Wires’ Design and make a wire flower with ‘ The Wire Lady’ Sue Clews 16th March ‘Its All A Bit Abstract’ Abstract art, mixed media painting with Jo Sheppard 13th April ‘Hidden Faces’ Make a self-portrait with artist Vanessa Rose 20th April ‘Your Booked!’

Learn the art of bookmaking with Sue Clews.

27th April ‘Pretty Poly!’

Print making workshop with artist Jo Sheppard Cost £5.00 per child.

Easter Gallery Game and Quiz

Friday 22nd March - Sunday 14th April, usual opening times Free

Animals in Hands

Wednesday 3rd April, 10.15-11am, 11.15am-12noon, 12.15pm-1pm, 1.30-2.15pm, 2.30-3.15pm, 3.30-4.15pm.

Popular animal handling workshop, providing an opportunity to learn about animals and meet some face to face.

Ages 3+ years £2.50 per child, pre-booking essential.

Loughborough’s Summer of Sport

Saturday 13 April until June. A celebratory exhibition looking back at Loughborough’s role in the London 2012 Games.

Free, usual opening times.

Art and Craft

26th and 28th March, 2nd and 4th April, 10.15-11.15am, 11.45am-12.45pm, 1.30-2.30pm, 3.00-4.00pm For ages 3+ years. £2.50 per child, pre-booking essential.

To book or for further details contact Charnwood Museum on 01509 233754

MELTON CARNEGIE MUSEUM

Melton Mowbray,Thorpe End, Melton Mowbray, LE13 1RB

Easter Gallery Trail

Saturday 23rd March - Sunday 7th April, usual opening times

SNIBSTON DISCOVERY MUSEUM Ashby Road, Coalville, LE67 3LN

Train Rides

26th, 27th, 28th March, 1st, 2nd,3rd, 4th April.Travel on a restored 1960’s passenger coach from the former mine into Coalville.Trains run every Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday during school holidays and every Bank Holiday Monday.

Easter Sunday Lunch at Kilworth House Hotel

Lutterworth Road, North Kilworth, Leicestershire LE17 6JE Sunday 31st March Easter Sunday Lunch with egg hunt, face painting and balloon modelling for children. £28.95 per adult, £20.00 per child.

For further details or to reserve your table please call the Hotel on 01858 880058. www.kilworthhouse.co.uk

Heroes & Villains

Saturday 6th April, 10am-5pm. A chance to meet a range of heroes and villains around the Snibston site.

For further details contact Snibston ticket office on 01530 278444

EASTER FUN Bunny Express

Great Central Railway, Loughborough, LE11 1RW Tuesday 26th - Thursday 28th March £20 for a family of 5 Booking office: 01509 632323 www.gcrailway.co.uk

Easter at Barnsdale Gardens

Barnsdale Gardens,The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, LE15 8AH 29th March - 1st April, gardens open 9am-5pm Children’s garden trails and egg hunt. Find a special token and collect your FREE Easter egg!

Garden admission: Adult: £6.50; Concession: £5.50; Child: £2.50 (under 5’s free); Family: £16.00 (2 adults + 3 children) T: 01572 813 200 E: info@barnsdalegardens.co.uk www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk

Easter Vintage Festival & Country Fayre Great Central Railway, Quorn Station,Woodhouse Road, Quorn, LE12 8AW 29th March - 1st April Contact Great Central Railway booking office for further details on 01509 632323 www.gcrailway.co.uk

Easter Family Fun at Rockingham Castle Rockingham, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 8TH Easter Sunday 31st March & Monday 1st April, 12noon-5pm Wonderful Family Fun for the Easter weekend. Children’s Easter Egg Hunt, children’s animal’ search and family quiz Tickets for Event & Castle: Adults £9.50; Child £5.50; Family (4) £24.50 www.rockinghamcastle.com

Children’s Easter Holiday Activity

26th and 28th March, 2nd and 4th April Pre-booking essential For further details contact Melton Carnegie Museum on 0116 3053860

www.familiesleicestershire.co.uk

Families Leicestershire & Rutland – March / April 2013

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Families Leicestershire & Rutland – March / April 2013

Tel: 0755 7967727