FamiliesNorthantsJuly/Aug2019

Northants

BIG SUMMER SPECIAL IN THIS ISSUE SUMMER DAYS OUT Put the Kids in Charge

Family Camping The Whys & the Hows

Clubs & Classes Planning ahead

What’s On

Our guide on the best family days out

Issue 1 July/August 2019

familiesonline.co.uk

GROW FESTIVAL

returns to Corby this summer Following its success last summer, Grow Festival is set to bring more spectacular outdoor arts to Corby this summer. Commissioned by Made in Corby and co-produced by The Core at Corby Cube, Grow 2019 takes place on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 July 2019. Continuing to look at the essential ingredients for growth, Grow 2019 is inspired by the theme of food, celebrating all things culinary! On the Saturday the town centre will host interactive installations, walkabout acts and performances for all the family. An enormous Community Feast will take place on Sunday at Coronation Park, sharing and celebrating the food and cultures of Corby. The feast will be the culmination of months of community growing projects and three local chefs will cook up a delicious menu reflecting Corby’s diverse population.

Hundreds of diners will be entertained by acclaimed street artists and the People’s Stage will return to showcase local talent.

Sat 27 & Sun 28 July 2019

A spectacular outdoor arts festival for all the family

Twitter: @growcorby - Facebook: /GrowCorby Instagram: /growcorby - www.growcorby.co.uk

Taking place in Corby town centre and Coronation Park

Following its success last year, Grow Festival returns for 2019!

Continuing to look at the essential ingredients for growth, this year’s festival will explore food, celebrating all things culinary! Featuring:

GIANT COMMUNITY FEAST STREET PERFORMERS POP UP SHOWS MUSIC WALKABOUT ACTS INTERACTIVE INSTALLATIONS

Join us for a summer of wildlife fun at Rushden Lakes!

@growcorby /growcorby @growcorby

www.growcorby.co.uk

COR0427 Grow 2019 Families Northants ad.indd 1 2 Families Northants

17/06/2019 12:36

www.familiesonline.co.uk

CONTENTS Issue 1 July/Aug 2019

EDITOR - Hayley Ash editor@familiesnorthants.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk 07568 406901

CONTRIBUTORS Andrew Campbell Claire Winter Gabrielle Nash Emma Holtz

4

NEWS & VIEWS

8

SUMMER FUN

12

TRAVEL

13

CLUBS & CLASSES

14

WHAT’S ON GUIDE

familiesnorthantsmagazine familiesnorthants @familiesnortha1

H

ello and welcome to the launch of Families Northants! I am so excited to be part of this magazine, the lead up has been one of many emotions but always with you all in the forefront of my mind to make this magazine an interesting read and hopefully provide some useful ideas for you. As a parent of two little girls, I am always on the lookout for advice on parenting, education and health, as well as finding great places to go with my family - that’s what Families magazine offers in abundance.

Summer is here and it’s time to have those long-awaited days/weeks off - whether you’re going abroad, having little adventures in the UK or chilling at home - it’s all about family and making long lasting memories!

In this summer issue we have great articles such as “Put the kids in charge” - pg 8, “Camping - the whys and hows” - pg 9 and a great selection of places to go in the school holidays in our ‘What’s On’ section - pg 14.

I hope you enjoy this first edition – I would love to hear feedback from my readers so don’t hesitate to get in touch. Please also let me know if you have any local events happening in your area or any relevant news.

I would also like to know about any great places in Northants that you like to take your children to and want to share!

Please also join our social media to keep up to date on local events and messages!

UPCOMING ISSUE Sept/Oct - Education, Clubs & Classes, Halloween

Hayley Happy reading!

DEADLINE - 5th August

x

The Belfry Hotel and Spa DISTRIBUTORS NEEDED IN NORTHANTS Are you looking for some extra income? Do you have a few hours to spare for a couple of days every two months within school hours?

Families Northants Magazine is looking for distributors to deliver our magazine to local schools, nurseries, libraries and local family attractions. If you live in Northamptonshire or Peterborough, are reliable, have a car and would like to earn extra money, please email for more information: editor@familiesnorthants.co.uk

N

amed as England’s Leading Resort, The Belfry caters for all types of family stays and is close to a variety of popular family favourites which can easily be reached throughout your stay, such as Drayton Manor, Cadbury World, Twycross Zoo, as well as the National Sea Life Centre and Birmingham city centre, which is only 20 minutes away.

On-site at The Belfry you’ll find the woodland walk, playground, swimming pool and mini-golf to keep the adventurous little ones entertained. Plus, there is an on-site OFSTED registered crèche if you’re looking for some ‘me-time’. After a day of fun, you can enjoy the family Pizza Pasta restaurant before retiring back to your comfy and spacious family room. With fantastic family facilities and a stunning resort set in 550 acres of countryside – There is something to keep everyone entertained.

Kids stay and eat for FREE during the Summer Holidays.

Visit www.TheBelfry.com or call 01675 238600 to find out more.

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

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Email: editor@familiesnorthants.com Phone: 07568 406901

Families Northants 3

NEWS & VIEWS

Free Childcare to Attend Smear Tests Mothers are being offered an hour’s free childcare so they can attend a smear test.

childcare.co.uk, which claims to be the largest platform for parents and childcare providers in the UK has launched the initiative to encourage more women to attend a smear test to determine whether they are at risk of cervical cancer, which in 99.8% of cases is preventable with early treatment Every year in the UK, around 3,000 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer. In the UK,

-Space Chase SUMMER READING CHALLENGE

women are invited by the NHS to get a cervical screening from the age of 25 to 64. However, figures show the take-up of testing of women is at a 20-year low.

While the test usually takes just five minutes, a free hour of childcare is being offered to allow for waiting times and travel. Visit website for further details - www.childcare.co.uk/ news/free-childcare-for-smear-tests

Celebrate PLAY on Playday UK!

The Summer Reading Challenge encourages children aged 4 to 11 to read six library books during the long summer holiday. Children’s reading can decline during the summer holidays if they don’t have regular access to books or encouragement to read for pleasure.

Playday is the national day for play in the UK, and will take place this year on Wednesday the 7th of August. Playday is an annual celebration of children’s play with thousands of children and families playing outside at events across the UK. It is an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of children’s play and the need for quality play opportunities every day of the year.

This year the challenge will focus on the theme ‘Space Chase’ - an out-of-this-world adventure inspired by the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing.

From small-scale community events to thousands of children taking part in events organised in parks and open spaces, Playday is celebrated by each community in a way that suits them.As well as a celebration of children’s right to play, Playday is a campaign that highlights the importance of play in children’s lives.

You can hold and register your own Playday event or find one close to you by visiting www.playday.org.uk

Children are challenged to read at least six library books over the school holidays and collect rewards, such as stickers, on their way to receiving their challenge certificate and medal.

The Challenge will launch in libraries on Saturday 13 July 2019.

For competitions, book recommendations and special online badges and rewards, visit www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

Talk, Sing and Play to Build Brains Almost two thirds of parents are unaware that back and forth interaction with their child from birth can help their babies’ social, emotional and cognitive development.

A survey of more than 2,000 parents and expectant parents by the NSPCC found that 62% were unaware that moments playing, singing or telling stories can be brain-building ones.

NSPCC research has found some parents struggle with ideas about how to interact

4 Families Northants

with their young child beyond eye contact and cuddling, especially in the early months when they do not receive obvious feedback from their babies.

In response, the charity is launching a campaign, ‘Look, Say, Sing, Play,’ to encourage new parents to use everyday scenarios to have more two-way interactions with their babies.

Parents can sign up to get weekly brain building tips that are fun and age appropriate. www.nspcc.org.uk

www.familiesonline.co.uk

NEWS & VIEWS

Government to Help Parents Choose Apps The Government has announced plans to help parents embrace the benefits of technology for their children. Announcing the plans, the Education Secretary, Damian Hinds said “No parent has all of the answers. Our children are growing up in a constantly changing world and it is hard to keep up.“ “Screens can be an easy distraction for children, but harnessing the power of technology to support early communication and development means that we have another tool in our arsenal

to help young kids develop those skills.”

The government’s plan is to provide reliable information about which educational apps for phones or tablets are the best or most effective. This will help parents choose from the hundreds available on the market.

The Government will be appointing a new advisory panel to assess existing apps and produce tips and guidance for all parents to help them make informed decisions about which to choose for their children.

Drive for More Men in Childcare More men are to be encouraged into careers in nurseries and early years’ settings, in a new project to provide more diverse role models for children before they start school. With men making up just 3% of early years staff in England, the project aims to break down the barriers that prevent men entering careers in children’s early education, including the myth that men are less suited to caring roles.

The project will be run by the Fatherhood Institute, and will spearhead an innovative recruitment drive that highlights the positive roles men can play in the crucial first years of a child’s education.

It will provide practical resources like myth busters, ‘how-to’ guides and online content to support male recruitment into the profession, as well as online peer support for men already working in the sector. www.fatherhoodinstitute.org

Going to Nursery Improves Behaviour Children who go to nursery are better behaved and have fewer emotional problems than those cared for by family or a childminder, a new study has found.

Those who attended nursery, crèche or day care centre staffed by professionals for a year or more found it easier to make friends and had better social skills than youngsters who stayed at home.

Researchers believe more stimulating play, more time spent reading, following rules from a young age and getting praise mean children thrive in a nursery setting. The study by the Sorbonne University in France looked at the factors involved in childhood health and development using a survey of 1,428 children. It tracked their emotional development from birth up to age 8. Previous research has suggested early childcare can boost a child’s language and thinking skills, and may improve their academic performance. www.jech.bmj.com

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Email: editor@familiesnorthants.com Phone: 07568 406901

Help for Choosing a Family Dog If you are considering adding a dog to your family, this is an important decision which is best not made on a whim.

Generally, children and dogs form great bonds and friendships and dogs can offer the opportunity for children to learn great life skills such as responsibility and compassion.

But all dogs are individuals.

The breed of the dog is perhaps the single most important factor you can take into account, when deciding what dog is right for your family. To help families with this decision a Dog Breeder Decider tool has been created by pet food manufacturer Webbox.

The tool matches a dog breed with your family by analysing your family’s lifestyle and preferences against the personality traits, behaviours and requirements of all dog breeds. www.webbox.co.uk/dog-breed-decider

Families Northants 5

SPONSORED CONTENT

Outstanding OutstandingEarly EarlyYears YearsChildcare Childcare When youyou are are on aon mission to give children the the When a mission to give children bestbest possible start in life absolutely nothing can possible start in life absolutely nothing can be left to chance according to the team at the be left to chance according to the team at the Ofsted-rated Nene Valley DayDay Nursery on the Ofsted-rated Nene Valley Nursery on the Northampton General Hospital site in Cliftonville.

Northampton General Hospital site in Cliftonville.

FromFrom the award-winning environmental initiatives and ethically the award-winning environmental initiatives and ethically sourced home-cooked meals and snacks, to the sectorsourced home-cooked meals and snacks, to the sectorrecognised training programmes for the staff staff recognised training programmes for 40 themember 40 member team, the focus at Nene Valley Day Nursery is oniscontinuously team, the focus at Nene Valley Day Nursery on continuously redefining excellence in every area area of operation. redefining excellence in every of operation.

My My childchild has has attended NeneNene valleyvalley DayDay Nursery sincesince attended Nursery 14 months old. old.

She She has has thrived in her attending 14 months thrived in time her time attending NeneNene valleyvalley and and has has builtbuilt greatgreat relationships withwith all staff relationships all staff members, my child has grown a character so a mazing members, my child has grown a character so a mazing thanks to Nene valleyvalley for inspiring her and building her her thanks to Nene for inspiring her and building confidence, she is happy to come into nursery and fulfil confidence, she is happy to come into nursery and fulfil her day withwith excitement and and lots lots of learning around her day excitement of learning around her. The meals are freshly made withwith a fantastic pair pair of of her. The meals are freshly made a fantastic experienced cooks.cooks.

Thank you Nene valley. experienced Thank you Nene valley.

Parent,Parent, www.daynurseries.co.uk www.daynurseries.co.uk

But as TracyTracy Smith, whowho has 35 experience in in ButManager as Manager Smith, hasyears’ 35 years’ experience the Early Years sector, explains finding fun every day for children the Early Years sector, explains finding fun every day for children and staff at the day nursery remains a priority and staff at employee-owned the employee-owned day nursery remains a priority The approach centres on recognizing that that everyevery childchild fromfrom six six The approach centres on recognizing to ensuring outstanding outcomes. to ensuring outstanding outcomes. weeks to nearly five years is unique, and then focusing on ways weeks to nearly five years is unique, and then focusing on ways to actively celebrate that that individuality. to actively celebrate individuality.

“A happy supported staff staff teamteam who who love love theirtheir workwork and and “A happy supported workplace is vital.

Our pride in our is reflected in our workplace is vital.

Our pride innursery our nursery is reflected inhappy our happy“Confident, secure and happy children makemake friends easilyeasily and and “Confident, secure and happy children friends and confident children on their way way to realizing theirtheir full potential and confident children on their to realizing full potentialare open to new experiences.

When you get that right, it is are open to new experiences. When you get that right, just it is just and excited about eacheach stagestage of their learning journey,” she said. and excited about of their learning journey,” she said.a case of introducing as many different opportunities as possible a case of introducing as many different opportunities as possible

Now Nowtaking takingregistrations registrations For children aged aged 6 weeks to 5 years For children 6 weeks to 5 years

Fun Fun is anis an essential essential ingredient ingredient

to capture theirtheir imagination and see theirtheir learning to capture imagination and where see where learning journey takestakes us,” us,” she said. journey she said.

Imaginative, age-appropriate indoor play play and learning spaces Imaginative, age-appropriate indoor and learning spaces feature statestate of the and equipment; messy creative feature of art theICT, art toys ICT, toys and equipment; messy creative play play corners for budding artists and ‘Role Play Play Areas’ helping corners for budding artists and ‘Role Areas’ helping children prepare for transition to mainstream schooling. children prepare for transition to mainstream schooling.

at Nene Day Nursery atValley Nene Valley Day Nursery and Preschool where where and Preschool the care and education the care and education opportunities for each opportunities for each and every as are as and child everyare child extraordinary as the as staff extraordinary the staff who provide them. them. who provide

We We would be be would delighted to to delighted showshow you you around around Twice rated Outstanding TwiceOfsted rated Ofsted Outstanding

“Children’s learninglearning is promoted excellently by an enthusiastic, “Children’s is promoted excellently by an enthusiastic, motivated and highly tea m ofteastaff the the motivated and qualified highly qualified m ofwho staffunderstand who understand importance of working with children’s interests.interests.

They consistently importance of working with children’s They consistently provideprovide an exceptional variety variety of interesting and challenging activities an exceptional of interesting and challenging activities that promote children’s learninglearning throughthrough play.” play.” that promote children’s Ofsted Ofsted inspection 2013, www.ofsted.gov.uk inspection 2013, www.ofsted.gov.uk

Please call 01604 628444 or email Please call 01604 628444 or email nene.valley@childbase.com nene.valley@childbase.com Nene Valley Nursery, Northampton GeneralGeneral NeneDay Valley Day Nursery, Northampton HospitalHospital Complex, Cliftonville, Northampton NN1 5BD Complex, Cliftonville, Northampton NN1 5BD

OpenOpen 7.30am to 6.30pm 7.30am to 6.30pm www.childbasepartnership.com www.childbasepartnership.com

6 Families Northants

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EARLY YEARS

“The vibrant, bright, welcoming environment helps children to feel settled and secure. Children form excellent relationships through the highly effective key person system that is firmly embedded in practice.

As a result, their needs are consistently met.”

Ofsted inspection 2013, www.ofsted.gov.uk

For the very youngest members of Nene Valley Day Nursery, specially trained staff provide weekly ‘Sing and Sign’ sessions to help babies to communicate before speech.

Older children enjoy age-appropriate Yoga sessions, designed to help them develop physical skills and achieve balance in mind and body, which is also an aim in the ‘Write Dance’ programme where music and movement supports the development of children’s handwriting skills, coordination and confidence.

In the garden which is separated into four age-appropriate play and learning spaces, a tree house, climbing frame, sensory areas and decking ensure babies and children are encouraged outside whatever the weather to explore, plant and, armed with magnifying glasses, study bugs and insects in special habitats.

“Outside play provides opportunities for large scale imaginative and multisensory play and exercise which not only underpins our messages about healthy lifestyles and respect for the environment, it also develops children’s’ problem solving and social skills,” said Tracy.

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Powered by electricity from renewable sources and sending ‘nearly zero’ waste to landfill, Nene Valley holds an Eco-Schools Awards for environmental awareness and conservation, and ‘Food for Life Served Here’ accreditation because its home-cooked meals are not only ‘added salt and sugar’ free, they are sourced from suppliers committed to the highest standards of welfare and production.

Nene Valley was opened in 1998 and is part of the employeeowned Childbase Partnership, which has 43 premier day nurseries in the South of England and won three prestigious European Business Awards last year when it was also rated ‘the gold standard for business excellence’.

Email: editor@familiesnorthants.com Phone: 07568 406901

Families Northants 7

SUMMER FUN

By Claire Winter

Days OUT Put the Kids in Charge!

T

here has been a lot in the press in recent months about ‘helicopter parenting’ and the fact that many parents are doing too much for their children. So how about breaking the cycle and putting the kids in charge for the day?

‘‘

Its Important to give our kids more independence Says Parent coach Susi Ramroop Sometimes when we are busy we can over schedule our child’s school holidays with clubs, activities, play dates and days out. So why not counteract this by taking a step back and putting the kids in charge?

Put One of your Children in Charge

They can ask you for help if necessary.

Ask them to direct you to your destination. If they make mistakes, it’s all part of the learning.

Set the agenda. Let your child know that he or she has to plan an activity that is out of the house for the day, as well as how to get there and back and where and what the family is going to eat for each meal.

It may be Mayhem!

Set a Budget

Remember things may not all go to plan but you can have fun, relax and enjoy not being in charge. Sometimes kids need to learn from experience that sweets for every meal is not a good idea!

Give your child a set cash allocation for the day. They then need to decide what to spend the budget on. The budget needs to cover the day out or activity as well as food. They might decide to buy food for a picnic, treats or eat out. Assist them to actually buy any food required.

Children love independence so let each child in your family set the agenda for one day.

Give them a budget and encourage them to start planning!

Parent coach Susi Ramroop (www.susieramroop.com) says it’s important to give our kids more independence. “In an attempt to please our kids and keep them busy, we fill their schedules with activities, and run the risk of overwhelming them. Teaching them from a young age to choose a day out based on what brings the most joy exercises their decision-making muscles, and sets them up for a better future – making choices is the foundation for managing time and money effectively.”

Keep it Up

Get Them Researching Get them to research the activity or day out they want as a starting point. Give them some tips on researching travel costs. You can assist them with this if they ask for help but try not to take over. Advise them to pre-buy the tickets or train fares online. Depending on their age they may be able to enter credit or debit card information and manage booking systems. If not, give them some help with this.

Let them Navigate Get them to look up the location on Goolemaps or Sat Nav if you are driving or on a map if you are walking or using public transport.

8 Families Northants

If the experiment went well, why not introduce it as a regular feature in family life? You could have a fun day out ideas jar that everyone contributes to and pull one out every weekend. My kids love having a Mexican, Indian or Pizza night. They plan the menu and ingredients required, then we do the shopping and cooking together. When the food is ready, we watch a film. An activity doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. We often forget that what children actually really want is to be spending time with us, not expensive days our or material things.

Helping our children develop independence is vital. We need to give them the tools to become responsible, emotionally-intelligent adults who are capable of making their own decisions. It’s not always easy to let go but when you do it’s great to see their smiles of satisfaction when they are allowed to do things their way!

www.familiesonline.co.uk

SUMMER FUN

- THE WHYS & HOWS

Tips for Camping with Children Whilst there may be plenty of good reasons to take your children camping, this doesn’t mean it isn’t challenging. But by following a bit of common sense advice it can be an enjoyable experience for you too.

•

Conduct a Test Run

Try sleeping in a tent in the garden first. Take notes of things you’ll need on a full-blown trip.

•

S

ummer is the perfect time for camping. But although a family camping trip can be rewarding, for many parents it is a daunting prospect. To help you weigh up the pros and cons, Families takes a look at some of the good things about camping and provides a few tips that might make things easier.

Reasons to Take Your Children Camping

• Develops a Sense of Adventure Going camping is fun – even just for one night.

A new environment, unfamiliar sights and sounds, other kids to meet and play with, a tent to help put up and sleeping under the stars all make for an adventure. Having a sense of adventure promotes a positive outlook and means life stays full of possibilities.

• Closer to Nature

• Builds Resilience Children rarely move out of their comfort zone these days. Working out where to pitch, helping to put up a tent, finding the campsite shop and being sent to pick up supplies, dealing with challenges (broken poles, forgotten tent pegs, bad weather), are great ways of building resilience and confidence.

• Freedom to Explore Having the freedom to play, explore and gener-

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ally behave the way children should is a vital element missing from modern life. Family-friendly campsites provide a safe, and relatively secure environment for children to roam, giving them a sense of freedom. This freedom, combined with a more natural environment, boosts creativity, with children using their imagination rather than a device to play games and entertain themselves.

Developing a love and respect of nature is much easier when children get to spend time outdoors, and camping is an excellent way to immerse them in the natural world.

• Family Bonding Camping is a great opportunity to create lasting memories for your child – something unexpected always happens! It takes the whole family to make the camp work. Everyone has a role, everyone can pitch in, and therefore everyone is interacting so much more than if you were in a hotel or apartment.

Email: editor@familiesnorthants.com Phone: 07568 406901

Don’t Overpack

You don’t need too many clothes. Leave the “just-in-case” items at home and know that you can re-wear things. Or, pack differently, put together an outfit for each day, roll it up and then secure each outfit roll with a rubber band. When it’s time to get dressed, pull out a roll and you’re set. Saves having to dig through a bag!

•

Pack for All Kinds of Weather

Even if it’s hot during the day, evenings are often cool—so bring an extra layer for night time. Remember rain gear!

•

Take Toys

In the event of poor weather (or boredom), things like puzzles, cards, travel size board games are useful. For outdoors, bring binoculars, magnifying glass, butterfly net, water guns, chalk, bubbles, buckets and shovels.

•

Prepare Meals Beforehand

Do as much food preparation for the meals and snacks you intend to cook whilst you are at home in a fully equipped kitchen. Freeze food in zip lock bags.

•

Take Glow Sticks

Great for seeing your kids at night and for hanging on obstacles that are obvious in the day but dangerous at night, such as tree stumps or tent pegs/ropes. Kids also love them. www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk

Families Northants 9

Go on a Butterfly Hunt Summer brings with it throngs of colourful butterflies. You will find a downloadable butterfly caterpillars ID sheet at which you can use to hunt fluttery butterflies in woodland clearings. If it’s too wet to go outside, why not cheer yourself up with a gorgeous butterfly mobile instead?

You will need:

and

Activities

in Nature this Summer The summer holidays are starting and Families magazine asked the Woodland Trust for its top pick of holiday adventures to get children active outdoors and away from their screens!

Create a Fairy Garden Use your imagination to design a fantastic fairy garden! You can do this indoors if it’s raining.

You will need: • • •

A container, such as a plastic box or old washing up bowl Earth A collection of natural materials: small stones or pebbles, sticks, moss, leaves, and some small flowering plants.

Fill your container with earth (if you’re using living plants, put some stones in the bottom for drainage). Use some leafy twigs to make trees.

Build a fence or little seat with sticks. You could even make a pond by sinking a plastic cup or another small container into the earth and filling it with water.

Woodland Challenge Set up challenges to complete on a day out in the woods and have a competition with your family and friends. Remember to decide how many points each challenge is worth. Here are some challenge ideas:

10 Families Northants

• • • • • •

Climb a tree (make sure there’s an adult around though!)

Balance on a fallen tree trunk and walk along Find three types of flowers Cross a stream without getting your feet wet Identify three different tree species Find some wild animal evidence – tracks, a fox or rabbit hole.

Tip: you can use the downloadable summer flowers ID sheet at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/ naturedetectives/ for this challenge

Host a Teddy Bears’ Picnic

• • • • •

several sticks of similar length string or wire paper – coloured, patterned, or white if you want to colour the butterflies yourself colouring pens, glitter (optional) a needle and some strong thread

Cross the sticks over in the middle and fasten them with string or wire to make the frame.

Fold a piece of paper in two and draw half a butterfly along the folded edge. Cut around it and open it out. Repeat for lots more butterflies.

Decorate them if you wish.

Attach a thread to each butterfly using the needle and tie the other end to a stick.

Hang up your mobile and admire your cloud of colourful butterflies!

The Woodland Trust charity runs its Nature Detectives family offering lots of ideas to get busy and out in nature. You can post pictures on Twitter or Instagram using #NatureDetectives too or visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/naturedetectives/ for more activity ideas. You can also find your local Woodland Trust wood at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods

This is sure to be a hit with younger children, especially if they can invite some friends from nursery. Use a teddy cookie cutter to make some little bear-shaped sandwiches. Cut out some pictures of bears and hide them in the surrounding area for kids to find. There are lots of fun picnic ideas at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk

Learn to Skim Stones You can do this on a pond, river, or calm sea.

Just be careful not to get too near the water’s edge or make sure you don’t hit any ducks – or swimmers!

• • •

Find some round, flat, smooth stones Hold a stone flat between your thumb and forefinger Get down low and throw it across the water with a spinning action. Do persevere as it might take a bit of practice.

www.familiesonline.co.uk

SUMMER FUN

RIVERSIDE HUB When my family and I recently visited Riverside Hub, within five minutes of walking through the gate, my husband and I both said ‘WOW! This place is awesome’

My daughters gave it My eldest daughter has 100 out of 10! high functioning autism and want to with a sensory disorder come everyday!! and it was nice to know that when she became a little overwhelmed she had somewhere quiet to go to.

have a carousel, Go-Karts, tree climb and laser tag – all included in the entry fee and unlimited.

My favourite was the laser tag, it really bought out the child in me and reminded my family how competitive I can get!

There is an amazing new under 5’s area that has been wonderfully designed with sensory equipment which is great for cognitive skill building.

This area has loads of interesting textures, a ‘dry’ water slide, an aquarium and even a massage bed!

I will admit that I was one of those parents that cringed at the words “soft play centre”.

As a family we have been to many, particularly on rainy days when the kids need to let off some steam. My experience of other places was that they are often hot, smelly and sticky.

I never liked having to squeeze through small holes and tunnels on my hands and knees trying to find my children!

Overall it was a great experience - All I can say is “WE HUB”.

For those parents who have children with special needs and or disabilities, Riverside Hub has made it possible for them to be part of it all. They have a soft play area that is designed to be stimulating with tactile and colourful surfaces, they have a sensory quiet room to relax in and they also allow the adults to sit on the back of the go-karts with their children to support them.

The owners of Riverside Hub have changed my opinion! Every aspect of the Hub has been carefully thought through with magical touches thrown in. The soft play area is adult height so our kids loved having us chase around after them with no kneeling or crawling required. Everything was clean and felt like new which shows the management have a focus on cleaning and maintenance. They

WICKSTEED PARK AND CLIP N CLIMB same time! I was in absolute awe of my two girls giving everything a go. At one point my 7yr old climbed half way up a wall and got scared and froze (she had attempted one the advanced walls) and immediately one of the staff members raced up the wall, calmed her and safely bought her back down, 2mins later she was happily climbing again!

I took my family to the new “Clip n Climb” activity at Wicksteed Park. Clip n Climb has taken indoor rock climbing to a whole new exciting level with it’s psychedelic colours and eccentric shapes. There are 28 different challenges ranging from young beginners to experienced climbers meaning it’s a great place to keep coming back to build your skills and gain confidence.

I loved that it is clearly designed for the whole family. My husband and I raced to the top of ‘Speed Climb’ - two climbing walls side by side, that times how quickly you can get to the top. A bit of competitive fun never hurt anyone! Our 5yr old, who is quite nervous with heights, climbed the ‘jungle Gym’ wall all by herself and hit the button at the very top which was 7.6m from the ground! She was so proud of herself with a beaming smile when she got to the bottom. This was a great confidence boost that lead to her trying several other walls!

Whether you challenge yourself on the ‘Skyscraper’, ‘Twister’ or ‘Stairway to Heaven’, there is definitely something for everyone at any age or ability! And if you are a real dare devil and want a challenge to beat all challenges, than give the ‘Leap of Faith’ a go... certainly not for the faint-hearted. Here you have to jump off a platform at 8.4m high and launch yourself off to grab a punch bag and hold on! Terrifying, and exhilarating at the

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Our daughter’s favourite was the very long snake shaped “Astroslide” – our 5 year old raced my husband down it 5 times in a row and would have kept going if she could.

As a family, we all had an excellent time and will definitely be back this summer for more fun and rides and to take on more challenges!

I was really impressed with the attentiveness of the staff to make sure everyone felt safe. The time slots work perfectly so it doesn’t feel crowded and therefore we never had to wait to climb.

Wicksteed park for those that don’t know it is an open theme park with a variety of rides and experiences that you can pay for individually or get a wristband to give you full access for the day. It’s a great fun place with loads to do where you can comfortably spend the whole day (or even camp onsite to spend more time there). It has so much for the whole family to enjoy from the Carousel, Clown coaster and Astroslide for the little ones. For the more adventurous older kids they have the Dropslide, Pinfari Roller-coaster and Rocky River Falls. Adults have loads to choose from including Paddle Boarding on Wicksteed’s beautiful lake or Free Jumping from the purpose-built Adrenaline Tower or testing your fear on one the UK’s longest Zip Wire.

Email: editor@familiesnorthants.com Phone: 07568 406901

Families Northants 11

TRAVEL

FAMILY TRAVEL Making it Easier

W

hether you are about to travel with your children for the first time or are well versed in the drama of a family holiday, you may have caught yourself wondering whether it’s really worth it: the organisation; the cost; the stress; and the arguments? However, a family getaway is a key time to forge bonds, experience something new and, most of all, create memories that will last a lifetime. And the good news is that there are things you can do to make your car or plane journey as stress-free as possible.

Before you Go… Forethought and preparation will pay dividends.

It’s useful to mentally walk yourself through the journey. If you’re flying, can you arrive at the airport a little earlier? If you’re driving, can you stop somewhere more pleasant than a motorway services? When you arrive at your destination will a meal or sleep be needed straight away?

Packing with very young children is not easy but older children (3+) might be more interested and even excited to get involved. Give them their favourite backpack and ask them to pack some things that they might want to get out during the journey. Think about what you want to get from this holiday - is it adventure, relaxation, fun? Can you adjust your expectations of the holiday, making loose plans but being prepared to go with the flow if things go awry?

By Gabrielle Nash

TIPS FOR YOUR CHILD’S AGE GROUP

BABIES The biggest fear when getting on a plane or embarking on a long car journey is that they’ll scream. This is a valid concern. What can you do to make it easier? Whether you’re flying or driving, can you time the journey so your baby is *likely* to be due for a nap? Can you make sure that feeds, nappy changes and snoozes happen when they need to? Zip-lock or clear toiletry bags are ideal for keeping things clean and organised. If you can, take a sling or baby carrier – they’re great for a quick stop-off on a car journey, or settling your little one on a plane.

new toys, some stickers and maybe even a small pot of play dough. If you’re flying and feel that take-off and landing may be daunting for your little one, you can distract them with a toddler app (games or painting) on your device.

PRIMARY AGE & PRE-TEENS When children get a bit older, they might appreciate a full-on activity book, word searches and doodle books which all help pass the time.

You may feel comfortable with allowing unlimited screen time for the entire journey, but if you’re driving, an audiobook that everyone is interested in is a lovely distraction which can be enjoyed together.

TODDLERS & PRE-SCHOOLERS

FOR ALL AGE GROUPS

Potentially the trickiest age group, you’ll need a few tricks up your sleeve. Generally this age-group respond well to a small bag they’ve not seen the contents of before i.e. a few small

Keep an easy-to-access bag with wet wipes, antibacterial gel, water and snacks always on you for the inevitable spillages and snack crises!

Follow Gabrielle Nash @thelondonishmum

FAMILY

ADVE N T U R E S KIDS STAY AND EAT FOR FREE ADULTS FROM £55 PER PERSON Swimming Pool | Mini Golf Family Dining | Spacious Family Rooms Woodland Walk | Playground

01675 238 600 | www.TheBelfry.com ENGLAND’S LEADING RESORT WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS 2018

12 Families Northants

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CLUBS & CLASSES

CLUBS & CLASSES

Planning Ahead Pays - Andrew Campbell The summer holidays may seem long but they will soon be over. So it’s not too early to start thinking about what after school classes and clubs and weekend activities you may want to book for your child in September.

This is particularly important if you have a child who wants to undertake a number of classes or if you have multiple children. It’s essential to work out a schedule whereby all the activities fit together neatly and you are not left rushing from place to place with little time to spare.

Planning ahead gives you time to research all the options thoroughly, talk to providers and book into free trials and taster classes that are scheduled early in September, before the term gets into full swing.

Testing out your child’s interest in a new activity by taking advantage of free trials and taster classes is definitely recommended if you want to avoid a situation where you pay for an activity in which your child swiftly loses interest.

Without prior planning, it’s easy to find yourself scrabbling around in a hurry at exactly the time when you are also preparing for your child to go back to school. There’s the chance you’ll miss out on something suitable too, as popular classes fill up quickly.

It’s also easier to get a session time that suits your family’s schedule if you are ready to book early, as well as being able to avoid travelling further to get exactly what you want. If you want to book your child into an activity with friends, there’s likely to be some coordination involved with their parents, so pre-planning is beneficial. Last but not least, you may find you can save money by taking advantage of ‘early bird’ booking discounts offered by many activity providers.

LEARNING THROUGH PLAY Rugbytots is the world’s favourite rugby play programme for boys and girls aged 2 – 7 years old.

Playing is perhaps the most important way in which children learn and grow; we encourage and develop our children beyond the physical aspects of the programme. Play builds self-confidence by giving children an awareness of their abilities and how to integrate with those around them.

Our energetic and dynamic classes develop key motor skills like language, emotions, creativity and co-ordination as well as social skills, space awareness and teamwork. Our classes help to nurture imagination and give a child a sense of adventure, belonging and curiosity.

Classes are led by enthusiastic, fun and DBS certified coaches covering three age groups: 2 – 3.5 years old; 3.5 – 5 years old and 5 – 7 years old.

To arrange a FREE taster session, book direct by email to vince@rugbytots.co.uk or by calling 0345 3130286.

Football Boosts Girls Confidence!

New research suggests that playing football can have a greater positive impact on the self-confidence of teenage girls than other popular sports.

The study by the University of Birmingham for the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) is the largest of its kind and features data collected from 4128 girls and young women aged 13 and over in Denmark, England, Germany, Spain, Poland and Turkey.

80% of teenage girls surveyed said they felt more confident as a result of being part of their football team compared to 74% who played other sports. 58% of the female footballers questioned said they had overcome a lack of self-confidence as a result of playing football, compared with 51% of girls who play other sports. UEFA have launched the Together #WePlayStrong campaign, which aims to make football the number one participation sport for girls and women in Europe by 2022.

www.birmingham.ac.uk/news MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!

TRY RUGBYTOTS *** FREE *** Taster sessions available, while spaces exist, at our Community classes. Please call for details.

Our dynamic weekly play sessions and after school classes enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment. For more details, just call or email:

0345 313 0286

vince@rugbytots.co.uk

www.rugbytots.co.uk

The world’s favourite rugby play programme

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Email: editor@familiesnorthants.com Phone: 07568 406901

Families Northants 13

WhatsON

Our Summer packed family guide for July and August 2019

Every Wed in July and Aug

13th of July - 3rd of Sept

25th July, 8th & 22nd August

Pond Dipping with the Rangers Stanwick Lakes

Children’s Trail: Bill Badger & The Pirates Lyveden National trust

Come and discover the creatures beneath the lakes over the summer holidays with the Conservation Rangers at Stanwick Lakes.

Price £3.50 pp for non members, £2.00 for members. booking is essential. www.stanwicklakes.org.uk

11-4pm Our summer trail explores the woods, meadows and moats at Lyveden in search of a new adventure. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

10:30am-12:30pm Enjoy a morning of forest fun with your children in our Education area. Build dens, look for mini beasts, have a go at woodland crafts or just go exploring! £5 per person (max 2 children per adult)

6th - 7th July

Wildflower walk at the Nene Wetlands Wildlife Trust

Sun 14th July

Booking essential - call 01933 779587 www.wildlifebcn.org.uk

Wellingborough Carnival and Party in the Park The streets of Wellingborough will be transformed into a riot of colour, music and dance when the Carnival comes to town events@wellingborough.gov.uk.

12.30-2.30pm Meeting point - Visitor Centre Celebrate our amazing meadows at Nene Wetlands with a wildflower walk around Ditchford Meadow Price £10 plus admin fee Booking online - www.wildlifebcn.org/events

Sun 14th July

Insect Walk at the Nene Wetlands Wildlife Trust 10.30am-12pm Join our insect expert Ryan Clark for a wander around Ditchford Meadow. Price £10 plus admin fee Booking online - www.wildlifebcn.org/events

6th & 7th July

Family Camping West Lodge Rural Centre

Sun 7th July

Marvellous Moths and Beautiful Butterflies Wildlife Trust Pitsford Water Nature Reserve 10am - 1pm Meet at Pitsford Water Fishing Lodge You will get the chance to empty Pitsford’s moth traps as well as hold some of the UK’s largest and most beautiful moths. We will then walk around some of Pitsford’s flower meadows in search of butterflies and day flying moths.

Booking essential. 01604 780148 www.wildlifebcn.org/events

Fri 12th July

Wed 17th July

Nature Tots Lyveden National trust

17th July - 4th of Sept Wild Wednesdays at Lyveden Lyveden National trust 11-4pm Get involved with hands-on activities for all ages including pond-dipping in the moats and counting butterflies. Activities vary from week to week.

Sat 20th July

Based on the smash hit motion picture, this family musical is a fabulously fun journey of self-empowerment which is packed full of instantly recognisable songs enriched with humour, wit and sass – leaving audiences wanting to change the world whilst painting it pink!

Booking esssential - see website for details www.royalandderngate.co.uk

14 Families Northants

Tribute Festival Billing Aquadrome Holiday Park Main Stage open from 12.00 Tribute acts take the stage like, Little Mix, Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga, The Spice Girls, and many more www.billingaquadrome.com

Corby town centre with a wide range of performances, activities and experiences. The festival will explore food, celebrating all things culinary. www.madeincorby.co.uk/grow

Booking essential Call 0300 126 5932 or e-mail brixworth@northamptonshire.gov.uk

10am - 11.30am Let your little ones learn about nature through play, stories, crafts and outdoor exploration.

Most suitable for 3-5 year olds. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing. Price £5

Legally Blonde JR. Royal and Derngate

26th - 28th July

10:00am - 11:30am Take an Education Ranger led themed walk followed by a craft activity. £3.50 per child. 2-4yrs

Little Bugs Club - Nene Wetlands Wildlife Trust

12th - 13th July

5.30pm Adults – £12.50 (inc. booking fees) Children (under 15) – £9.50 (inc. booking fees) Book online www.stanwicklakes.org.uk/whats-on/ movies-by-the-lakes

Grow Festival 2019

check out the website for more details. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyveden

Booking essential. 01933 779587 www.wildlifebcn.org/events

Sat 27th July Movies by the Lake - Christopher Robin Stanwick Lakes

27th - 28th July

Pitch your tent, spend 2 days at the farm, enjoy our home reared hog roast, twilight walks, camp fire, marshmallows and stargazing.

Booking essential - see website for details www.westlodgeruralcentre.co.uk

Family Forest School Nene Wetlands - Wildlife Trust

Movies by the Lake - Despicable Me Stanwick Lakes 5.30pm Grab a popcorn, chill on a bean bag, wrap up in a blanket. All available to hire on the day.

Adults – £12.50 (inc. booking fees) Children (under 15) – £9.50 (inc. booking fees) Book online www.stanwicklakes.org.uk/whats-on/ movies-by-the-lakes

Sun 21st July

Movies by the Lake - Moana Stanwick Lakes 5.30pm Adults – £12.50 (inc. booking fees) Children (under 15) – £9.50 (inc. booking fees) Book online www.stanwicklakes.org.uk/whats-on/ movies-by-the-lakes

27th & 28th July

Family Camping West Lodge Rural Centre Pitch your tent, spend 2 days at the farm, enjoy our home reared hog roast, twilight walks, camp fire, marshmallows and stargazing.

Booking essential - see website for details www.westlodgeruralcentre.co.uk

Sun 28th July

Movies by the Lake - Frozen Stanwick Lakes 5.30pm Adults – £12.50 (inc. booking fees) Children (under 15) – £9.50 (inc. booking fees) Book online www.stanwicklakes.org.uk/whats-on/ movies-by-the-lakes

Sun 28th July

Slime Making Workshop Stanwick Lakes - The Discovery Centre 10:30 am – 12:00 pm Come along and join our Madhatters Slime Party workshop. Make two tea party themed slimes, Cake Slime and Cookie Dough Slime.

Prizes will be given for the best fancy dress costume. https://slimelabuk.com/northnorthamptonshire/event

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Follow us on social media for news, updates & events 29th July – 2 Aug/5th - 9th Aug Musical in a week Royal and Derngate

HOLIDAY PROJECTS - PERFORM ON STAGE Rehearse and perform a new musical in a week, with songs from Matilda The Musical, Oliver!, Blood Brothers, Shrek The Musical and much, much more.

Suitable for ages 8-13yrs old Booking essential - see website for details www.royalandderngate.co.uk

29th July – 2 Aug/5th - 9th Aug The Wind in the Willows Royal and Derngate

HOLIDAY PROJECTS - PERFORM ON STAGE Rehearse and perform with Ratty, Mole, Badger and the preposterous Mr Toad and help tell this tale inspired by the classic Kenneth Grahame story.

Suitable for ages 4-7 Booking essential - see website for details www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Tues 30th July Dog Sculpture Workshop Abington Park Museum 10am-12pm or 1-3pm Make your own dog sculpture out of card.

Book online - £5 refundable deposit per child www.northampton.gov.uk/museumkids

Friday 2nd August

The Ultimate Little Mix Experience Castle Theatre

10am-12pm OR 2pm-4pm We’re opening up this special ‘Little Bugs Club’ to older children for the summer holidays. Join our colourful street theatre characters from LOL Theatre for bug hunting and pond dipping before creating your own characters based on the animals you’ve discovered. Investigate how they move and behave before putting on a mini play for the grown-ups. £7.50 per child Booking essential - call 01933 779587 www.wildlifebcn.org.uk

6:00PM If you’re a fan of one of X Factor’s finest exports you’re sure to L.O.V.E. We Love Little Mix! Four hugely talented girls pay tribute to one of the UK’s finest Girl-Bands. Tickets £16.50

2nd - 4th August

Family fun country and western games, live music / entertainment and line dancing. www.billingaquadrome.com

Sat 3rd August

Annual Pass Holders Summer Party Sacrewell 5.30 - 9pm Join the summer party at Sacrewell with Tractor rides, indoor and outdoor play areas, Live music, BBQ, Farm tours and so much more!

Free for Annual Pass holders.

You can buy an annual pass online. www.sacrewell.org.uk/events/annual-pass-holders-summer-party

Family Camping West Lodge Rural Centre Pitch your tent, spend 2 days at the farm, enjoy our home reared hog roast, twilight walks, camp fire, marshmallows and stargazing.

Booking essential - see website for details www.westlodgeruralcentre.co.uk

50 things to do before you’re 11¾ Canons Ashby National Trust 11 - 2pm Keep the kids happy this summer, ticking off our challenges whilst enjoying family fun in the fresh air.

On these Thursdays join us for activities based around the 50 things to do before you’re 11¾ scrapbook and start collecting stickers for each completed challenge.

Free event (admission applies) www.nationaltrust.org.uk/canons-ashby

1st, 15th & 29th August Pond Dipping & Mini-beasting Nene Wetlands Visitor Centre 10.30am-12pm OR 2pm-3.30pm Look for and learn about the fascinating invertebrates that live in the Nene Wetlands. £5 per child£5 per child Booking essential - call 01933 779587 www.wildlifebcn.org.uk

Booking essential - see website for details www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/castle-theatre

Country and Western weekend Billing Aquadrome Holiday Park

3rd & 4th Aug

Every Thurs in Aug

Sat 10th Aug

Little Bugs Go Big! Nene Wetlands - Wildlife Trust

Sat 10th August

Movies by the Lake - Cars Stanwick Lakes 5.30pm Grab a popcorn, chill on a bean bag, wrap up in a blanket. All available to hire on the day.

Adults – £12.50 (inc. booking fees) Children (under 15) – £9.50 (inc. booking fees) Book online www.stanwicklakes.org.uk/whats-on/ movies-by-the-lakes

10th - 11th August

Climb, Camp, Canoe!

Nene Wetlands - Wildlife Trust 2pm Saturday– 12pm Sunday We’ve teamed up with RockUp and Canoe2 to offer a unique, wildlife filled, ‘Climb, Camp, Canoe’ overnight package. Join us in the Education Area for pond dipping and to set up camp before enjoying an evening climb with RockUp. Explore the lakes after dark on bat walk, camp overnight and then join Canoe2 for a morning paddle on the lake. £60 for 1 adult, 1 child (additional children £30, max 2 children per adult) Booking essential - call 01933 779587 www.wildlifebcn.org.uk

5th - 10th Aug

Fame Jr Summer Musical Theatre Workshop The Deco A fantastic opportunity for children from age 6-17 to take part in a youth drama and dance project, in an actual theatre and performing on stage in front of a live audience at the end of the project.

Price incl. 2 Seats for the show and a show dvd!

Booking esssential - see website for details www.thedeco.co.uk

Tues 6th August

Clay Figure Sculpture Workshop Abington Park Museum 10am-12pm or 1-3pm Have fun modelling your own sculpture in clay with local sculptor Clare Abbatt. Your work will be yours to take home. Suitable for children aged 6+.

See Payment bookings online at www.northampton.gov.uk/museumkids

Sunday 11th Aug

Alice in Wonderland Canons Ashby National Trust 6-8pm Alice in Wonderland is brought to life for all the family to enjoy. Why not come dressed up as your favourite character? You’d be mad to miss it!

Great for families of all ages. Booking essential. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/canons-ashby

Sun 11th Aug Movies by the Lake - WALL.E Stanwick Lakes 5.30pm Adults – £12.50 (inc. booking fees) Children (under 15) – £9.50 (inc. booking fees) Book online www.stanwicklakes.org.uk/whats-on/ movies-by-the-lakes

Although we take great care in ensuring we have the correct information for you, it is always best to double check before your journey. Please call or check websites for details, as things may change after we have gone to print.

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Email: editor@familiesnorthants.com Phone: 07568 406901

15 Families Northants

Advertise with us: If you are interested in spreading the word about your family friendly business then contact us. We are read by over 16,000 families across the Northants region from Brackley up to Peterborough. editor@familiesnorthants.co.uk 07568 406901 Tues 13th Aug

3D Landscape Workshop Abington Park Museum 1–2.30pm or 2.45–4.15pm Come and create a colourful patterned landscape Booking esssential - see website for details www.northampton.gov.uk/museumkids

20th & 23 Aug

Jingly Wind Chime Workshop Abington Park Museum

10:30am-3:30pm Join textile artist Olivia Wilson, look at moths up close and create your own moth using fabric. £5 per child Drop in Booking essential - call 01933 779587 www.wildlifebcn.org.uk

1.15–2.15pm or 2.30–3.30pm Come and decorate a wooden leaf wind chime.

Suitable for children aged 3-10. £3.50 per child Booking essential - see website for details www.northampton.gov.uk/museumkids

Wed 21st Aug

Summer Sun Catcher workshop Abington Park Museum

Fri 16th Aug

Ladybird Ceramic Planter Workshop Abington Park Museum 1–2pm, 2.15–3.15pm or 3.30pm–4.30pm Decorate ceramic ladybird plant pots, then plant with herbs. Suitable for children aged 4–10.

Booking esssential - see website for details www.northampton.gov.uk/museumkids

16th - 18th Aug

The Northampton Balloon Festival Billing Aquadrome Holiday Park please visit website for details www.billingaquadrome.com

Tues 27th Aug

Magical Moths Nene Wetlands - Wildlife Trust

1.15–2pm, 2.15–3pm or 3.15–4pm Decorate happy face flower sun catchers, take home and hang by a window for a stained glass effect.

Suitable for children aged 3–10. £3.50 per child Booking esssential - see website for details www.northampton.gov.uk/museumkids

Sat 27thth Aug Annie Jr. Castle Theatre

4:00PM Annie JR. follows the story of an orphan named Annie living a “hard-knock” life at The New York City Municipal Orphanage run by the cruel Mrs Hannigan.

See website for details www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/castle-theatre

Tues 27th Aug

Thurs 22nd Aug

Northampton Castle Workshop Abington Park Museum 1.30-3.30pm Build a Lego castle, complete castle jigsaws, dress up as a knight or a princess, and much more!

This is a free workshop. children aged four and over.

Booking esssential - see website for details www.northampton.gov.uk/museumkids

22nd - 24th Aug

Sailing with Pond Yachts Abington Park Boating Lake 10am- 4pm (Meet by the boating lake just befor 10am on the day) Suitable for families with children aged five and over.

Hire a model yacht called a Choppa free sailor and take park in a variety of different sailing activities. Just set the sails in the desired direction and let it go. £2.50 Booking esssential - see website for details www.eventbrite.co.uk

Children’s printing workshop Nene Wetlands - Wildlife Trust 10am-12pm or 2pm-4pm Join local print artist, Sorrell Kinley, and learn how to create beautiful print designs, inspired by nature, in this 2 hour workshop in the visitor centre.

Most suitable for age 7+ £10 per child See website for details www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/castle-theatre

27th Aug - 1st Sept Fox-tot!

Royal & Derngate

brand new opera for 12 to 24 month olds.

Set in a woodland world where anything can happen, this opera is wonderful for both child and parent.

Booking essential - see website for details www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Fri 23rd Aug

19th - 23rd Aug Play in a Week - James and The Giant Peach Castle Theatre If you are aged between 6-11 yrs and want to be part of bringing this story to life, join us at Castle Theatre this Summer and be part of our wonderful cast.

Booking esssential - see website for details www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/castle-theatre

Stone Painting Workshop Abington Park Museum 1.10–2.10pm, 2.20–3.20 pm or 3.30–4.30pm Painting on stones is a craft that rocks!

Come along and get creative.

Suitable for children aged 3–10. £2.50 per child Booking esssential - see website for details www.northampton.gov.uk/museumkids

24th, 25th, 26th Aug

Big Fossil Weekend West Lodge Rural Centre Search for fossils on our fossil field Be an archaeologist for the day and dust down our ‘dinosaur remains’.

Booking esssential - see website for details www.westlodgeruralcentre.co.uk

Mon 19th Aug

Build a bat box Nene Wetlands - Wildlife Trust 10:30am-3:30pm Build a bat box to provide a safe roost for bats near you. £10 per box Drop in Booking essential - call 01933 779587 www.wildlifebcn.org.uk

16 Families Northants

24th - 26th Aug

August Bank Holiday Family Day Out Billing Aquadrome Holiday Park A fun weekend including live entertainment, trade stands and outdoor activities for the whole family.

See website for details www.billingaquadrome.com

Distributors Needed in Northants Are you looking for some extra income? Do you have a few hours to spare for a couple of days every two months within school hours?

Families Northants Magazine is looking for distributors to deliver our magazine to local schools, nurseries, libraries and local family attractions. If you live in Northamptonshire or Peterborough, are reliable, have a car and would like to earn extra money, please email for more information: editor@familiesnorthants.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk