Families Bedfordshire May-June 2015

FREE

MAY/JUN

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ISSUE 16 5

Party Feature & Directory!

Win some fantastic prizes

What's on

this May & June

Confidence Building Fun

Call 0845 400 1315 or visit perform.org.uk to find your nearest venue.

Try a Free Drama Class For families with young children aged 0 -12 in Bedfordshire

3-6 Editor's Welcome Hello and welcome to our fun-filled May-June issue.

We have our Party feature, a must read guide on how to survive a sleepover, plus our Party Directory which will give you lots of ideas of where to turn to when thinking ahead to your child's birthday celebrations.

With summer on the way, there's plenty to see and do, with lots of events taking place for you and your families to enjoy across Bedfordshire. Full details of these and more in our News and Info and What's On pages. Plus, there is a chance to win tickets to The Big Outdoor Show taking place at Willen Lakes in Milton Keynes!

NEWS & INFO

Contents

7

NEWS AND COMPETITIONS

8

PARTY FEATURE

9

PARTIES DIRECTORY

10

PARTY FEATURE AND NEWS

11

FAMILY MEALTIMES

12

EDUCATION NEWS

13

HEALTH AND EDUCATION NEWS

14 - 16

WHAT’S ON: MAY - JUNE

Editor: Judith Dow editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk Mob: 07889 894431 or phone: 01727 373929.

Whatever you do, have fun!

Judith P.S. Our July-August Summer issue will include lots of holiday what's on; activities and ideas about what to do with the kids over the summer and holiday camps guide. Copy deadline: Friday 12 June.

Part of the Families ® magazines group, established 1990. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned & operated under license.

Design: CBF - www.cbfnet.co.uk

Competition winners:

Front cover: © Juno Photography www.junophotography.uk

The winners of family tickets to Mead Open Farm were C Edwards, A Jefferson, K Knox, H Furminger, T Rook, RR Stijelja. The winners of tickets to the Bedfordshire Baby Show were C Killen, L Hrabikova, J Cull, S Witts, N Laing, C Ruffing.

Photo credits

pg 2 www.catherinefenton.com; pg 4 © illustration Kerr-Kneale Productions; pg 6 © ZSL; © Nigel Blake (rspb-images.com); pg 7 © Christin Lola – Fotolia.coml; pg 8 © tcsaba – Fotolia.com; pg 11 © BlueOrange Studio – Fotolia.com; pg 12 © Chris Demott; pg 13 © Monkey Business – Fotolia.com.

Families Bedfordshire is printed by The Manson Group (01727 848440) on paper sourced from sustainable forests and the inks used are vegetable based. Distribution: we are printing 15,000 copies which will be distributed to selected points in Bedfordshire. Further distribution information please contact: editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

,

Maths & English tuition centres For 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities • • • •

Courses mapped to the National Curriculum.

Adapts to the individual needs of your child.

Convenient for families - Open 7 days a week.

Ofsted registered - we accept Childcare Vouchers.

Free trial session - book today!

Bedford Luton

01234 365905 01582 742979

www.explorelearning.co.uk 2

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“Explore Learning members’ improvement in maths was 30% higher than that of the comparison group after controlling for gender, age, year group and special educational needs.”

Independent Efficacy Study by the Institute of Education at Reading University (2013). See www.explorelearning.co.uk/efficacy.

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News and info Caitlin's a Flitwick Carnival competition winner!

Look up, look down ,

The photo shows the winning entry of the Flitwick Carnival Programme design competition. Caitlin Cliff-Reid (aged 8) was presented with the award

by Karen Gleave, business owner at Art Adventurers, who sponsored the competition. As well as seeing her winning design on the front cover, Caitlin received an arty prize, an enlarged laminate copy of her design, certificate and keepsake copy of her programme.

The Collection

look around!

is home to hi storic aircra motorcycles, ft, vintage ve and a perio hicles and d Swiss Gar den

Airshows & Collection events

The Flitwick Carnival will be held on Saturday 13 June at Millennium Park, Dunstable Road, Flitwick, from 12 noon-7pm and is set to be a fun-filled day for all the family!

Plant Fair, Plays & Music events

Old Warden Aerodrome, Bedfordshire, SG18 9EP

May-June events at Shuttleworth for all the family!

All Flitwick Carnival updates can be found at www.facebook.com/Flitwickcarnival.

3 May - 70 years of VE Day Airshow z 10 May - Plant Fair z 23 May - Classic Evening Airshow z 13 June - Open Garden (NGS) z 7 June Airshow featuring LAA z 20 June - Edwardian Picnic & Airshow z 21 June - Midsummer Eve in the Swiss Garden (music).

www.shuttleworth.org/events

Reg Charity No 307534

Families Beds QP May-June 2015.indd 1

30/03/2015 11:21:20

Summer Reading Challenge 2015 Libraries across the UK are getting ready to encourage young readers, aged 4-11 years and their families, to explore some of the astonishing real-life achievements and world records as featured in the Guinness World Records Books as part of the Summer Reading Challenge 2015 which starts on Saturday 11 July.

This year the Summer Reading Challenge has teamed up with Guinness World Records - the global authority in record-breaking achievements and publisher of the annual Guinness World Records ™book – to establish a “Record Breakers” themed Challenge. Record Breakers brings together fact and fiction, challenging young readers to explore astonishing real-life achievements and world records.

Children are encouraged to read six or more library books of their choice during the summer holidays with collectable incentives and rewards, plus a certificate, or medal for every child who completes the Challenge. This year, participants will be asked to make a pledge to help set a new Guinness World Records™ title for the Most Pledges Received for a Reading Campaign! Libraries are collecting pledges across the UK between Friday 10 and Monday 13 July.

More info: www.readingagency.org.uk/summerreadingchallenge

at The Grove!

Tree Fu Tom takes to the Grove Theatre's stage in Dunstable on Saturday 23 May at 1pm & 3.30pm as part of his first nationwide 'live' tour!

You can follow Tom, Twigs, Ariela and friends on an action packed adventure through the magical world of Treetopolis!

After finding a dusty old map, Tom decides to follow where it leads and see if it will take them to any mysterious hidden treasure - but it’s not an easy route to follow. Tom and his friends must travel through wild weather and catch the mischievous Mushas who are making trouble along the way!

Full of fun, music and laughter, Tom will need your help to do the Tree Fu moves that could help save the day. Be part of the magic!

Tickets: call the Box Office on 01582 60 20 80 or visit the website: www.grovetheatre.co.uk To advertise: 01727 373929

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News and info Samba over to Luton Carnival!

Keep on running... and swimming and cycling!

Luton is welcoming its first Hercules Festival of Sport to the Inspire Sport Village on Sunday 24 May starting at 7am. It builds on the successful season of Triathlon and Aquathlon events staged at the Inspire Centre and Lewsey in 2014.

The Festival will play host to an incredible range of sporting events, and will offer something for all the family, including: Novice, Sprint and Standard distance off road Triathlons (swim, cycling, running) Standard and Sprint Aquathlon (swim, run events) Tri Star Kids Aquathlon (300m swim and 2.5km run) Standard and Sprint distances off road Duathlon (run, bike, run) 10 km, 5 km & 1.5 km kids fun run races 100 km and 100 mile cycle events Event Director, David Enright, said: “The Festival of Sport in Luton will provide a day long feast of sport and fun for the city. There are events for every member of the family, as well as a Sports Village and entertainments for spectators and supporters.”

More details about how to enter can be found on the website www.herculesevents.com To contact the event organisers call 0798 446 5923 or email admin@herculesevents.com

Have tea with a life-size Tiger!

Tiger, Mog and Pink Rabbit: A Judith Kerr Retrospective at the Jewish Museum in London (29 June- 4 October 2015) invites families to enjoy a showcase of almost 80 years of original artwork and illustrations by one of Britain’s best loved authors.

The exhibition at the Jewish Museum in Camden celebrates the picture books still so loved by children around the world today, The Tiger who Came to Tea, and the Mog series. It also explores the background to When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit, featuring drawings Judith made as a child refugee fleeing Nazi Germany.

Beginning as a bedtime story for her children, Judith Kerr’s first picture book, The Tiger Who Came to Tea, soon became a classic, and has been translated into 11 languages since being published in 1968. Visitors can go to the heart of the action by having tea with the tiger in the museum, as well as enjoying Judith’s original drawings for the book.

Visitors are also invited to follow 30 years of the lovable Mog series, that was inspired by Judith’s own family and her real-life cat, and young readers can curl up with the books in a cosy basket reading area.

More info: www.jewishmuseum.org.uk/JudithKerr

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Staying in Luton, the stage is set for the Luton International Carnival 2015 which takes place on Sunday, 24 May from 12 noon to 7pm and everyone is invited to enjoy an incredible day of free family entertainment.

The town will burst into life as the carnival atmosphere sweeps over Luton. Sound sites will be situated across Wardown Park and the town centre hosted by local Djs who will be getting everyone in the carnival spirit, playing the sounds of Salsa, Soca, Drum n' Bass beats and much more.

Visit Wardown Park to experience the array of stalls and grab a bite to eat, with food from all around the world, you'll be spoilt for choice! Look out for the variety of entertainment on offer and visit the fairground to get yourself in a spin!

Don't miss the highlight of the entire day, the carnival procession which will leave from Wardown Park. Follow it through the streets of Luton to St. George's Square, where the carnival bands will showcase their amazing costumes and moves, before heading back to the park to continue revelling in the celebrations. More info: email: info@carnivalarts.org.uk or tel: 01582 437100.

Traffic-free cycling guide book launched A new guidebook to traffic-free cycling in the UK which includes three routes in Bedfordshire, has been released by Sustrans, the charity which coordinates the National Cycle Network.

The guidebook, ‘Sustrans’ Traffic-Free Cycle Rides – 150 Great Days Out’, has been created by Sustrans to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Network. It features three Bedfordshire routes, namely: • The University Way, beginning in Market Square, Sandy • Grand Union Canal, beginning in Leighton Buzzard • Luton and South Beds Way, beginning at Luton train station Each featured route is accompanied by a map and is graded from ‘easy’ to ‘challenging’, has a clear start and finish point including nearest train station and also includes details on the terrain and gradient.

The guidebook costs £15.99 and is available from www.sustrans.org.uk/shop.

Join us for the wonder that is

Carnival!

A fantastic family day!

Wardown Park

Luton Town Centre 12noon – 6pm Carnival Arts @carnivalukcca

www.carnivalarts.org.uk Sponsored by

Media partners

LycaMobile_Logos.indd 2

Annual Kite Festival

Meet a farmer on Sunday 7 June

Bedford Borough is preparing for its 13th Annual Kite Festival on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 June in Russell Park, Bedford. The event, which is free to attend and open to all, is hosted by Bedford Borough Council.

Each year, approximately 40,000 people gather for the occasion which sees Russell Park jam-packed with food stalls and entertainment, and you can travel to the venue by train.

Kites will be showcased from the four corners of the globe including America, Canada, Japan, China, Germany, France, Holland and Belgium as well as flyers from across the UK. The programme throughout the weekend will feature kites never seen before in the U.K and childrens’ and adults’ workshops in the kite marquee.

Volunteer this year

22/01/2015 09:39

On Sunday 7 June, hundreds of farms across the country will be opening their gates to welcome the public for the 10th Open Farm Sunday. This annual event organised by LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming), offers a great way for people to find out more about where their food comes from, talk to the farmers who produce it and get up close and personal with the countryside.

And with Bedfordshire farms including Scald End Farm and Franklins of Thorncote taking part, it's the perfect opportunity to find out more about the story behind our food.

More info: www.farmsunday.org

Volunteers’ Week is an annual celebration of the fantastic contribution millions of volunteers make across the UK – and it’s taking place from 1-7 June this year.

Volunteering can make a real difference to your own life and the lives of those around you, but it’s important for anyone thinking about giving their time to find a volunteering opportunity which is right for them, whether it's supporting a victim of crime or helping out at a local sports club. There are lots of events going on up and down the country, including one in Bedford on Wednesday 4 June at The Grange, Addison Howard Park, Kempston to help inspire you during Volunteer’s Week.

To find out more go to www.volunteersweek.org or email volunteersweek@ncvo.org.uk To advertise: 01727 373929

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News and info1 26/03/2015 18:03 Page 1 TBOS-local ad-(87x60)_Layout

SHO SHOW W BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND

23RD-25th may 2015

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THE NUMBER ONE FAMILY BANK HOLIDAY DESTINATION EVENT!

TICKET HOTLINE 0871 220 0260 OR WWW.SEETICKETS.COM

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Juno Photography is a family run business based between Cheltenham and Gloucester in the heart of the Cotswolds. We specialise in natural, un-posed family portraits taken in your own environment or somewhere you feel comfortable.

A typical photo session will usually last around two hours, giving us plenty of time to create some beautiful portraits. We try not to choreograph or arrange the pictures, preferring to let things happen on their own, producing more relaxed and natural portraits.

To book a session contact us at: juno.photography@me.com or visit our website at www.junophotography.uk

New Butterfly House opening at Whipsnade Zoo! ZSL Whipsnade Zoo (www.zsl.org/Whipsnade‎) will be opening a brand new Butterfly House in time for May half-term. The beautiful, tropical biome will feature over 30 different species of colourful butterflies, as well as a Metamorphosis Zone in which families can discover more about the life cycles of butterflies through hands-on exhibits.

The interactive puparium will also feature live caterpillars and butterflies emerging from their pupas in front of visitors’ eyes.

The new Butterfly House is being launched by a Tree Fu Tom live show and trail (May half term week only).

Bedford mum encourages parents to snap up places at “life changing” youth club

Bedfordshire’s garden secrets revealed The RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch UK survey results were boosted by nearly 90,000 people across the East, who spent an hour during the weekend of 24 and 25 January watching their garden and recording any feathered friends that made a flying visit. Over 1.3 million birds were spotted across the region, making it another bumper year.

Like many parents of a disabled child Laura Sherwood-King faces the daily challenge of providing stimulation and fun for her 13 year old son Lorcan, who has complex additional needs. She says that specialist youth clubs have made a big difference to family life, and she would urge other parents to give them a try while there are places available.

Refreshingly, in Bedfordshire, sightings of almost every bird that featured in this year’s top 10 increased on the numbers recorded in 2014, apart from the goldfinch.

Lorcan has severe learning difficulties and has been going to a weekly youth club run by disability charity Papworth Trust (www.papworthtrust.org.uk) in Bedford for the past 2 years.

Laura said: “Lorcan looks forward to every session and always enjoys it greatly. He’s an only child so this socialising opportunity is great for him. He also needs to learn how to be more independent, so not being with us is also very important for his emotional and cognitive skills.”

There was no change in the top 2 birds spotted across the county since last year’s survey. House sparrows retained the top spot, with at least 4 birds seen on average in well over half of the gardens surveyed. This popular garden visitor was followed closely by the noisy and gregarious starling in second place. The well known blackbird pipped last year’s number 3 to the post, pushing the colourful blue tit down to 4th position in the survey.

However, two species found in Bedfordshire’s Big Garden Birdwatch’s top 3 most popular birds remain on the red list of Birds of Conservation Concern, highlighting just how valuable our gardens can be. House sparrow and starling are on the red list meaning that they are of ‘highest conservation priority - species needing urgent action’.

More info: www.rspb.org.uk

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The club runs every Saturday from 9.30am to 1.30pm with sessions for different age group each alternate week. First and third Saturdays of the month are held at Kempston Youth Centre for people aged 13 to 17. Second and fourth Saturdays of the month are held at Queens Park community centre for young people aged 8 to 12.

Both clubs currently have places available for young people with additional needs, aged 11 to 17 years old. For more information, parents or carers can call 0800 952 5000 or email info@papworthtrust.org.uk.

News and competitions

WIN

A Strider bike from The Big Outdoor Show!

Head out with the family to The Big Outdoor Show in Milton Keynes running from 23-25 May www.thebigoutdoorshow.co.uk.

There’s loads of exciting things to do and watch around the beautiful Willen lakeside setting - you can even bring the dog!

Go for a day or spend the whole weekend camping there.

If your child is aged 1-5 years old, bring them to the Strider bike course at the show to test-drive the Balance bike. This robust cycle has taught more youngsters to ride than any other bike and Families Bedfordshire and The Big Outdoor Show have one to give away!

The 12 inch Strider Sport Balance bike is superlight yet strong enough to be used on any terrain. Fully adjustable seat and handlebars allow the bike to grow with the child. No sprockets or chains interfere with little legs and puncture-proof tyres mean zero bike maintenance. Integrated footrests allow advanced riders to tuck up their feet and get used to the idea of pedals.

The winning bike comes with a 2-year manufacturers warranty.

For your chance to win a Strider bike, simply answer the following question: Around which lake will The Big Outdoor Show be held?

A. Garda B. Willen C. Windermere Enter online at www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk/ competitions by Friday 29 May 2015.

Terms & conditions

1) The prize is a 12 inch Sport™ Strider Feature Rich balance bike worth £80 2) Available in a choice of colours, subject to availability 3) Delivered next day anywhere in mainland UK 4) No cash alternatives

Father's Day

by Joanna Parry

It is Father’s Day on Sunday 21 June, so why not put your thinking cap on early and come up with something special for your dad? Or if you’re a dad, you could start dropping hints for your partner and children to treat you!

Dads are often overlooked, especially in today’s busy world and if there are young children around, and Father’s Day is the perfect opportunity to make him feel special and wanted. The celebration was introduced in the United States in the early 20th century to honour fathers and father figures, although some scholars believe that Father’s Day is actually much older, and that the custom of celebrating fathers on a special day has been around for nearly 4000 years. Today, it is becoming more and more popular and there are loads of fantastic ways of celebrating it.

There are some wonderful and unusual gifts out there.

But it doesn’t have to be a gift – a day out with the people nearest and dearest to Dad can hit the spot perfectly. Many properties, museums, stately homes, farm parks and even theme parks hold special Father’s Day events, including this year events at The Shuttleworth Collection (www.shuttleworth.org) and Wrest Park (www.english-heritage.org.uk/WrestPark), with loads of great activities for Dads and their families. At some of them Dads even go free on Father’s Day. It’s definitely worth doing your research!

Win two family passes to The Hive!

Families Bedfordshire magazine has teamed up with The Hive Indoor Activity & Play Centre in Shefford (www.thehiveshefford.co.uk/) to offer two family passes (2 adults + 2 children) to our readers.

To win a pass, simply email editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk with your name, address and contact telephone number, and put THE HIVE COMPETITION in the the subject header.

Enter by Friday 29 May 2015.

Normal Families competition terms and conditions apply (copy available upon request).

To advertise: 01727 373929

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Parties feature

Love them or hate them, you will be asked at some point to host a sleepover. Sarah Butters looks at how best to survive them and how to avoid repeating the experience in the future.

LATE DROP, EARLY COLLECT The thought of a sleepover is bearable if you know there is an end to it all. Make it clear at the point of invite when your hospitality begins and ends. I’ve found a late afternoon drop – coinciding with teatime – is best with a pick up between 9 and 10am. This means your exhausted guests, now suffering from an additive hangover, can have their post sleepover meltdown in the comfort of their own home. You are left with a full day to scrape melted chocolate and squashed Haribo from your beige carpet.

HAVE A PLAN Don’t imagine that five 8 year olds will be able to occupy themselves without incident. They won’t. Well they will, but rest assured it will end in a lot of tired tears. Follow teatime with a fun activity – karaoke, Wii fun or a board game – before a DVD to take you through until bedtime. I have heard reports of parents putting their children through 100 bounces on the garden trampoline prior to heading upstairs to maximize exhaustion but you may feel that’s a step too far.

PREPARE FOR LATE NIGHT LEAVERS There’s a pretty high chance that one of your guests will want to leave. The reality of a night spent away from home can be a little too much for some children. Be warned, homesickness is catching and once one begins to wobble, you could find your other guests follow. Make sure you have the parents contact details for all your guests if you do need to make a late night collection call.

KEEP IT SIMPLE Think camping indoors and you’ve got the perfect sleepover. One of my daughter’s favourite nights away from home saw 7 children sleeping top to toe, in sleeping bags on the bedroom floor of their friend. Not a king size Aerobed in sight.

ADMIT DEFEAT You aren’t going to be able to stay up late enough to check your guests are all asleep. Their very purpose is to out ‘stay up’ the adults in the house so in many ways, reminding them you are still awake only makes for a later bedtime. Lay out the ground rules when you say your final (ish) goodnight and leave them to it. Some will fall asleep, some will chat and only in the very worst case

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How to……survive a sleepover party scenario will they raid your sweet cupboards in the early hours to replenish their sleep starved bodies. Removal of electrical devices is a good move – especially in tweenage girls – as the cyber world can be an inviting but frightening place in the small hours of the morning.

KEEP YOUR DIARY CLEAR Plan nothing for the following day. You will have slept like a meerkat balancing on a branch. Your child will have crashed late and woken with the lark. In short, your family is fit for nothing and planning even the most straight forward activity is doomed to failure. Then, as night falls, raise a glass to the fact your survived your first sleepover. Like childbirth, you’ll need some time to forget the pain before you do it all again.

Ask the Expert……

Sleepover? They should be called Stay Awake-overs according to sleep expert Sarah Barnes from Gentle Sleep Solutions (www.gentlesleepsolutions.co.uk).

Here’s her advice for making your night a success.

1. Only invite a small group for a child's first sleep over.

2. Discuss with parents of invited children any allergies, medication, comfort objects or other needs.

3. Make sure you have contact numbers for all parents in case of late night homesickness.

4. Make sure you have boundaries in place to avoid chaos. Make the children aware of their bedtime, the no-go areas in the house or garden following that bedtime and the rules regarding the use of gadgets.

5. Let the sleep over guests know where you are sleeping and let them know they can wake you in an emergency.

6. Arrange a definite pick up time the following day. Children, especially younger ones are usually ready to go home and sleep!

Summer holiday clubs and activities Parties Directory ÂŽ

ÂŽ

Yoga inspired classes/parties

Fun classes to encourage movement, enhance development and inspire confidence in your baby and child 0-7 years Enhance Creativity, Improve Concentration Develop Communication, Increase Strength

Quote FAMILIES for 10% Off

Ć www.tattybumpkin.com/bedford bedford@tattybumpkin.com facebook.com/tattybumpkinbedford

Party Directory If you're looking for some birthday party inspiration then our Parties Directory is here to provide you with ideas! You can also find it online at: www.familiesonline.co.uk/LOCATIONS/Bedfordshire/ Directory/Children-s-Parties

POOL PARTIES Polam Pool Parties

Our popular pool parties can be held on a Saturday, Sunday or during the school holidays.

The 90 minute parties cost ÂŁ115 for up to 20 children and consist of one hour of structured play led by our qualified and experienced swim staff, followed by 30 minutes for tea.

All you need to bring is the party food and any decorations!

Contact: Christine Tel: 01234 261863 or Email swimming@polamschool.co.uk Website: www.polamschool.co.uk/pool-parties.html

PARTY ENTERTAINERS Froggle Parties

As seen on CBBC! Froggle Parties provide amazing children’s parties that are high energy and non stop fun! Filled with heaps of varied party activities that kids absolutely love! We have loads of fantastic parties to choose from, such as brilliant entertainers and magicians, themed parties, discos, clowns, science parties, games and dancing parties, bubble parties, and more!! Get in touch to find out more!

Contact: tel: 08450 504 509 Email: enquiries@froggleparties.com Website: www.froggleparties.com

Tatty Bumpkin

Tatty Bumpkin will take your child and their friends on a magical adventure tailored to their interests or favourite characters.

The adventure involves lots of yoga inspired movement, stories, music and games, finishing with a relaxation, leaving children tired but happy and relaxed. Our parties are suitable for 1st birthdays to 8 years old and are also perfect for weddings, fetes or holiday get togethers. Please get in touch for more information.

Contact: Hayley Simpson Mobile: 07592 660885 Email: bedford@tattybumpkin.com Website: www.tattybumpkin.com/bedford Facebook: www.facebook.com/TattyBumpkinBedford

0208 617 9070 Theatre Bugs

Theatrebugs offer a full range of exciting and imaginative party packages specifically designed for 0-7 year olds!

Our under 3 parties are jam packed with puppets, song, rhyme, instruments, parachute time and bubbles!

A 4+ party is an interactive, fun-filled journey crammed with stories to be told, tasks to be completed, characters to become and different worlds to explore!

We have many magical themes to choose from - get in touch for more information!

Contact: Amelia Newman Tel: 01234 860575 or 07914 084977 E-mail: amelianewman@theatrebugs.co.uk Website: www.theatrebugs.co.uk/bedford.html

VENUES FOR HIRE The Grove Theatre

The Grove Theatre has a number of spaces available for children’s parties. Packages can be tailor made to suit your event and can include room hire, decorations, buffet, children’s entertainer, party bags and a birthday cake. Your party can also be combined with one of our shows or film screenings to make it that bit more unique!

Contact: 01582 884 181 Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable Email: grovetheatre@1Life.co.uk Website: www.grovetheatre.co.uk

UK Centre for Carnival Arts

Known as the UK Centre for Carnival Arts, The Centre is the newly branded space for hire at the same location. A ÂŁ7.4 million state of the art facility providing an exciting space for a range of events including private parties, conferences, meetings, exhibitions, seminars, banquets and theatre productions or music events. Our facilities include everything to make your event stand out from the rest.

With a capacity of up to 550, indoor and outdoor spaces, bespoke catering packages, bar services and with impressive lighting, staging and sound options, we are able to accommodate any kind of event.

We have a dedicated team on hand to ensure your event runs smoothly and professionally.

Contact tel: 01582 437113 or 01582 437100 The Centre, 3 St. Mary’s Road, Luton, Beds. LU1 3JA Facebook: Carnival Arts.

Twitter: @carnivalukcca.

Email: hire@carnivalarts.org.uk Website: www.carnivalarts.org.uk To advertise: 01727 373929

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Parties feature and news CAN YOU…..exclude individual children?

This is a tough one because as a general rule, you should stick to one of 3 party invite rules.

Invite the whole class – this is perfect for Reception age children Invite all the girls or all the boys – this becomes popular as children head into KS2 and the opposite sex become toxic Invite a few close friends – this works when you’re keeping the budget down or as you head towards the end of primary However there are exceptions. If you’re child is the victim of a classroom bully, you’ve grounds to exclude that individual. This is YOUR child’s special day and they’re entitled to enjoy it without fear. Excluding problematic children is more difficult.

Planning a party? Need some advice? Sarah Butters takes a Instead, it’s best to ask the parents of said child to stick around look at the very latest party problems posed by parents and to offer a helping hand. gives you some top tips on avoiding serving a can of worms at your child’s next celebration.

CAN YOU…..fine a parent for a ‘no show’?

There is little more irritating than the parent who confirms their child will be joining the party, only for them to leave an empty CAN YOU….say no to siblings? chair at the birthday table. The tale of the mum who billed a Most of us wouldn’t dream of turning up to a party uninvited. Yet parent after they failed to show up to her son’s skiing party some parents feel it acceptable to bring along a string of siblings certainly made party no shows THE talk of the playground. Was she right to have sent the invoice? The reality is there will always and presume they too are welcome. be ill mannered individuals who chose to accept an invite, and go on to make other plans without letting you know.

“They won’t eat. In fact you won’t even know they’re here,” cry the parents as they sprint out of the door, while said siblings In a world of text messages and emails, a no warning no show is begin pilfering from the pre prepared party bags. The point is if simply unacceptable. But it’s also inevitable at some point in you’ve budgeted for 20 and catered for 20, you’re ready for 20 your party throwing life. Invoicing a parent may make the children – not 25. Very often entertainers insist on a maximum headlines and also make you feel better for a while, but it’s likely number and siblings can tip you over the limit, and in turn, tip you over the edge. Prevent the problem at the point of invite and to alienate your child and make YOU the subject of ridicule at the make the sibling rule clear. A simple ‘Sorry, no room for siblings!’ school gates. Our advice is to make a point of asking what means there’s no question. I find the addition of an exclamation happened to those no show when you next bump into the parent. In my experience you maximise the middle class mark makes you look fun and not mean. embarrassment the more parents there are to witness it.

Dress up and dance for charity!

If your kids love dancing, then Macmillan Cancer Support has announced that fundraising event Dress Up and Dance will be returning to schools, nurseries and uniform groups across the UK this summer on Friday 19 June 2015.

Baby & Toddler Show Families Bedfordshire was delighted to attend the Bedfordshire Baby & Toddler Show in April. Michelle Jay, Managing Director, Bump, Babies and Beyond Events, organisers of the Bedfordshire Baby and Toddler Show, said: “The first Bedfordshire Baby and Toddler Show was a huge success! We had over 1,000 parents and parents-to-be coming along on the day, and we have received some great feedback from our visitors! We are busy making plans for the second Bedfordshire Baby and Toddler Show which will be held in April 2016, and are looking to make the next one even bigger and better!”

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May/June 2015

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

The fundraising event encourages schools and uniform groups to sign up and ask their students to get dressed up and have a dance, in exchange for making a suggested donation of £2 to Macmillan. This year’s special theme is ‘Legends’ and those taking part are encouraged to go to school channelling their favourite inner champions - be it a pop icon, a super hero, a sports personality or a film star!

Back for its third year this summer, the fundraiser was a huge success in 2014. Over 3,000 schools registered to take part and helped raise £200,000 for Macmillan to help children and families whose lives have been affected by cancer.

For further information,visit www.macmillan.org.uk/dressup.

Family mealtimes

Family

Mealtimes Let's all eat the same!

Example

By Kathryn Mewes

Monday

Spaghetti bolognaise and green vegetables

Tuesday

Fish cakes and potato wedges and roasted vegetables

Top tips on how you don't need to cook 'Children's meals'.

Wednesday know, I know, I can hear: “My children eat too early, they eat food Thursday I don’t want to eat, my husband/wife is Friday home so late.”

The aim is that you prepare one meal for dinnertime. The children eat and you have a small portion with them. When your husband/wife arrives home they have the same meal. A portion has been set aside for them.

I believe that it is so important for children to realize that they cannot have their ‘favourite’ meal each and every day. My ethos is simple ‘A meal is prepared and there are 2 options – Take it or Leave it!’

Once this attitude is adopted and you remain consistent you will find that the children adjust and adapt to your ‘new way’ at mealtimes.

I think that there is too much emphasis today on children having to eat all of their meal. This is what leads us to only giving them food we know they will eat. It is important to realize that your children may leave some of their meal but as they start to realize this meal is going to appear at least once a fortnight they will adjust.

Slowly but surely they will ‘tuck in’.

The key is that your children are seeing a variety of foods and you are eating with them.

I often suggest creating a ‘meal plan’ so that everyone knows what is on offer that night.

Thai chicken curry with rice Sausages and mash and onion gravy with carrots Fish and Chips night!

“We all have different tastes.”

You should be able to create a meal where there is something for everyone. For example a curry. You might find one family member prefers the rice, the other the vegetables and the other picks out the meat. In time they will expand on this and start to eat more of the meal. A salad can always be served as an accompaniment to cater for all.

“I don’t want to eat early with my children.”

The important thing is that if you are introducing change you need to lead by Roast dinner Sunday example. You can have a small portion, or mainly vegetables while sitting with the You can alter the menu plan every week children. I have ALWAYS found that or have children behave far better at the table when 2 – 3 that you simply rotate. an adult is sitting with them, ideally eating not just observing.

This has so many advantages: Saturday

Pizza and Pasta night!

The food shopping can be done once a week, ordered online for ease.

Children’s meals

It is very common for children to like ‘dry food’. By this I mean nuggets, fish fingers, Everyone knows what is going to be chips, potato wedges, pesto pasta and served. sausages. There is terribly nothing wrong You don’t have to think each morning with any of these meals but at some stage your child needs to expand. There is a about the ‘evening meal’. whole world of exciting food beyond You are only cooking one meal for the ‘children’s menus’! I suggest these meals family. are on the weekly menu and they are enjoyed but then there are meals to suit Frequently asked Questions you.

“What if my child won’t eat it?”

Please don’t expect your family to instantly adapt. They will ‘dig their heels in’ before accepting the permanent change. If a meal is not eaten simply allow fruit for dessert and a cup of milk to line their stomach before bed. The most important thing is not to offer them something else – you will then be back to where you once were.

It is a life lesson. There needs to be give and take at meal times. Everyone needs to see their favourite meal once a week.

Mealtime can be for the entire family – not just the children.

For further information and advice on guiding your child at mealtimes see The 3 Day Nanny by Kathryn Mewes or visit the website to find out about her bespoke service www.bespokenanny.com

To advertise: 01727 373929

May/June 2015

11

Education news National Theatre comes to the classroom

Illustration by Susan Kelly, from Learning with Nature published by Green Books. £17.99. 30% discount with free delivery in the UK for Families readers with code: FAMILIES2015.

Valid until 30th June 2015. www.greenbooks.co.uk

Calling all young writers!

Do you know a young author? The National Young Writers’ Awards judges are looking for the best short story (up to 500 words) based around this years theme of ‘Strange Events and Peculiar Happenings’. The winner of the competition will receive £500 of books for their school and a trip to Disneyland Paris!

The annual awards, run by tuition company Explore Learning, are now in their 7th year. This year’s judge is renowned author of the Book of Norm series of books, Jonathan Meres. It's open to children aged five to 14 and the closing date is Friday 5 June.

Entry is free and to do so visit www.explorelearning.co.uk/ youngwriters.

Share-A-Story Month This May welcomes the annual National Share-A-Story Month, a rousing celebration of the power of storytelling and story sharing. Run by the Federation of Children’s Book Groups, it is a wonderful opportunity to bring children and stories together.

There are a whole host of events running across the country, from storytelling workshops to craft activities and puppet shows, and this year the theme for National Share-A-Story Month is Dragons! Find out about the culture of Chinese, Welsh and Viking dragons in stories and poems, explore myths and legends about dragons, and even discover what a dragon might like for tea. Take a look at the website for loads of ideas, activity packs, posters and Dragon competition prizes. www.fcbg.org.uk/ national-share-a-story-month

12 12

May/June 2015 March/April 2015

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

This September, three acclaimed National Theatre productions will be available on demand in schools.

Danny Boyle’s production of Frankenstein with Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller, and Nicholas Hytner’s productions of Shakespeare’s Hamlet with Rory Kinnear, and Othello with Adrian Lester, will be free to stream on demand in every secondary school classroom in the UK. Each play is recorded in front of a live theatre audience by National Theatre Live, and comprehensive learning resources will support each play. ‘This new initiative underlines the National Theatre’s passionate commitment to supporting teachers and schools across the UK,’ said Alice King-Farlow, Director of Learning at the NT. ‘In giving young people access to inspirational theatre, we aim to help schools to keep the arts as a vital part of the curriculum.’ Find out more at www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/schools

Where’s Wally fun run Photo shows over 40 Where’s Wally lookalikes, including several Wally Dogs, who took to the pathways around Russell Park in Bedford and raised £160 for the National Literacy Trust in March.

Supported by the Kiosk at the Park, Bedford.

Warden Hill meet the High Sheriff!

The photo shows the 2014-2015 High Sheriff of Bedfordshire, Mr C Osborne Esq MBE with the pupils of Warden Hill Infant School, Luton, earlier in the year. The pupils were amazed by the official regalia and were eager to know about his life and job.

More info. www.highsheriffs.com/ bedfordshire/Index.htm

What’sand On education news Health

how much does he actually see?

(Unfortunately, he won’t know what he’s missing. Do you?)

Children under 16 are entitled to a free eye examination under the NHS

Walk to School Week

by Joanna Parry

This year’s Walk To School Week takes place on 18-22 May, bringing together nearly one million schoolchildren, teachers and parents, and this year’s event promises to be the biggest and best yet! Walk To School Week is part of National Walking Month, which takes place throughout May. It also includes Walk to Work Week, so us parents don’t get out of it either!

This year, Walk To School Week is all about the health benefits of walking. During the week, the Walk to School mascot Strider encourages pupils to take his 5-Day Walking Challenge – supported by their fantastic classroom-focused pack. Day 1 focuses on a healthy body, as daily exercise has numerous physical health benefits including helping to reduce the risk of childhood obesity and medial conditions such as cancer and heart disease. Day 2 is health and happiness, as regular walking helps to keep young minds healthy and alert ready for their arrival at school. Day 3 concentrates on healthy habits. An energetic walk at the start of the day encourages healthy eating habits such as having a nutritious breakfast every morning. Day 4 is healthy friends and family, as the walk to school is the perfect opportunity for some quality family time or a good chat with friends. And finally Day 5 is a healthy environment – walking means less pollution and cleaner air – a benefit for everyone!

And it’s not just the health benefits.Walking to school can also save you money – as much as £400 a year!

For us grown ups, Walk to Work Week runs 11-15 May 2015, so if you fancy a bit of healthy competition in your workplace check out the website and discover where walking can take you. Their free workplace walking challenge is a fun way to get some competition going between you and your colleagues. Use their free tools to log your walks and see how many calories you burn, as well as their live workplace and team totals and leaderboards to spur you on – see www.walktoworkweek.org.uk More information www.livingstreets.org.uk/walk-with-us/ walk-to-school/walk-to-school-week

DUNSTABLE EYE CENTRE

free eye

exam.

01582 608 449 www.decopticians.co.uk 5 Ashton Square, Dunstable, Bedfordshire LU6 3SN On presentation of this voucher | Cannot be used with any other offer

NEW DEVELOPMENT CHECKS Parents are to get a complete picture of their child’s development at the age of two, as part of new reforms to help families. With over £2million pledged to support joined-up checks on education and health development, parents will now have a better picture of their child’s progress at this early stage. ‘No parent should be left in the dark about their child’s development,’ said Childcare Minister Sam Gyimah. ‘There should be an accessible check for all at the age of two, which is a pressure point where issues such as speech delay and behavioural problems begin to appear.

Today’s announcement will mean more families can get valuable information in a more convenient way.’ Health Minister Dr Dan Poulter added, ‘We know it’s important to check children’s health and development when they are two, so that if extra support is needed it can be identified early. Integrated reviews and the huge increase in health visitors will lead to better outcomes for children and families.’ The Integrated Review, which will be implemented nationally from September 2015, will be available to children between 24 and 30 months old.

Download your What To Expect When guide from the Foundation Years website www.gov.uk/dfe To advertise: 01727 373929

May/June

2015

13

What’s on Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline or if we got it wrong.

MK Dons Sunday 3 May Final home game of MK Dons – travel to it by train! www.mkdons.com

Georgian Games Galore Please send events to be listed to: editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk. Saturday 2 May to Monday 5 May, 11am-5pm Wrest Park , Silsoe, Silsoe, May MK45 4HR Play like a Georgian and step back in time this May bank The Great Railway Treasure Hunt holiday weekend.

Visit the Ridgmont Heritage Centre www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrest and Leighton Buzzard Railway to take part in the Great Railway Treasure Season Premiere Airshow Hunt (closes 30 September 2015), (Commemorating VE Day) aimed at children up to age 14, and Sunday 3 May, gates open 9am; organised by Peter's Railway. airshow begins 2pm More information on the quiz and to The Shuttleworth Collection , download a quiz sheet: Shuttleworth (Old Warden) www.petersrailway.com/ Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade See treasure-hunt.aspx.

WWII Aircraft and a range of visiting More information on Ridgmont Station military aircraft. Adults £28; children and this year's Hunt: under 16 free. www.marstonvalecommunityrail.org.uk/ www.shuttleworth.org the-great-railway-treasure-hunt-2015/ Tel: 01767 627927 50 Things Walk First Sunday of every month, 2-3.30pm Chilterns Gateway Centre, Dunstable Downs Join the Rangers for a free family exploring session. This fun activity group will get the kids outdoors and discovering new things from tracking wild animals to making wild art.

Please dress for the weather. No booking required.

Family Fun Time: Pirates Love Underpants Saturday 2 May, 11.00am-11.45am, Luton Central Libray, 2.15pm- 3pm, Stopsley Library Join in with the tall tale of the underwear-loving pirates on their treasure hunt for the fabled Pants of Gold. Create your own pants inspired

by Clare Freedman and Ben Cort's book.Suitable for ages 3+. Free, donations welcome Save the Rhino Charity Weekend Saturday 2 May-Monday 4 May, 10am-5pm Woburn Safari Park Rhino themed fun and help raise much needed funds for Save the Rhino International.

More info: www.woburnsafari.co.uk/events May Bank Holiday Barbecues Sunday 3 May, Monday 4 May, Sunday 24 May & Monday 25 May, 12.30-3.30pm Woburn Safari Park Enjoy a selection of mouth-watering barbecue favourites at the Safari Lodge at the heart of the Foot Safari.

More info: www.woburnsafari.co.uk/events The Basil Brush Show Sunday 3 May, 11am & 2pm Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable, Britain’s most loveable fox is back on the road along with his TV chum Mr Stephen (aka Chris Pizzey) www.grovetheatre.co.uk/ Tel: 01582 60 20 80 (option7)

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May/June 2015

Meet Peppa Pig Monday 4 May 2015 & Monday 25 May, 10am-5pm Woburn Safari Park Appearing at Elephant Meadow at intervals throughout the day, fans will have a chance to meet Peppa Pig, get a photo and join the cheeky piggy to listen to her favourite tales during story-time sessions. More info: www.woburnsafari.co.uk/events Summer Open Morning Tuesday 5 May, 10am – 1pm Bedford Girls School, Cardington Road, Bedford www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Family Fun Time: The Queen’s Hat Saturday 9 May, 11.00am-11.45am, Leagrave Libray Saturday 9 May, 2.15pm- 3pm, Marsh Farm Library Saturday 16 May, 11.00am-11.45am, Luton Central Libray Saturday 16 May, 2.15pm- 3pm, Stopsley Library A hat takes the Queen on an adventure through London in Steve Antony's book. Enjoy the story, and then make a hat of your own. Children aged 3+ and their families. Free, donations welcome Steam Fair and Country Show Saturday 9 May-Sunday 10 May, 10.30am-5pm Stotfold Mill, Mill Lane, Stotfold Steam Fair which is now in its 13th year! www.stotfoldmill.com/ The 1600s and all that Saturday 16 May, 10am-4pm Priory House Gardens, Dunstable.

Free fun-filled day for all the family which will include demonstrations of the arts and crafts of the period, along with various other interesting and exciting activities. See more at: www.dunstable.gov.uk Steam Fair Sunday 17 May, 10am-4pm Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road, Luton A chance to enjoy this year's magnificent working steam engine and stationary engines in all their glory. Family event. Free, donations welcome.

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

NCT Nearly New Sale Saturday 16 May 11.15am - 12.30pm, Watling Lower School, Bullpond Lane, Dunstable £1 entry. www.nct.org.uk/ branches/dunstable/ nearly-new-sale Aeromodellers Mayfly Saturday 16-Sunday 17 May, 11am-4pm The Shuttleworth Collection , Shuttleworth (Old Warden) Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade Aeromodellers' annual Spring weekend event. Adults £10; children under 16 free.

Tel: 01767 627927 www.shuttleworth.org

Tree Fu Tom Live at Whipsnade Zoo Saturday 23-Monday 25 May Whipsnade Zoo, Dunstable Five fifteen minute shows daily to celebrate the Zoo's new Butterfly House, plus Tree Fu Tom Trail. www.zsl.org Hercules Festival of Sport Luton Sunday 24 May, begins 7am Inspire Luton Sports Village, Hitchin Road, Luton, LU2 8DD Triathlon, Aquathlon, Duathlon, Sportive, 10K, 5K run races and fun run for the little ones! www.herculesevents.com

Luton Carnival Sunday 24 May, 12 noon to 7pm Luton Town Centre Annual Carnival and procession through Luton which begins at 12 Anniversary Celebrations Fete and noon from Wardown Park.

Fun Dog Show Tel: 01582 437100 Sunday 17 May, 12 noon www.carnivalarts.org.uk/ HULA, Salford Road, Aspley Guise MK17 8HZ Family Craft Fun www.hularescue.org Tuesday 23 (2-3pm) & Wednesday 24 May (10-11am) Football Storytime Leighton Buzzard Library Saturday 23 May, 11am-12 noon Free tickets available from the library Kempston Library Football themed stories and crafts!

Bright Sparks Monday 25-Sunday 31 May The Big Outdoor Show Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes Saturday 23-Monday 25 May 2 for 1 entry if you go by train. Fun Willen Lake, Brickhill Street, Milton activities for the holiday at the home of Keynes Amazing outdoor activities for the code breakers. all the family, adventure sports www.bletchleypark.org.uk displays & demos on land, air and water! Camping on site also available. Wrest at War Tel: 01908 246599 Sunday 24 May to Monday 25 May, www.thebigoutdoorshow.co.uk/ 10am-6pm. Wrest Park , Silsoe, Silsoe, MK45 4HR Classic Evening Airshow An action packed weekend propels Saturday 23 May, gates open 11am; you into wartime Britain. airshow begins 6pm. www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrest The Shuttleworth Collection , Shuttleworth (Old Warden) Home (U) Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade Tuesday 26 May, 2pm (relaxed Discover the Collection’s vintage screening) & Friday 29 May, 2pm vehicles and motorcycles at this Leighton Buzzard Library Theatre, Classic Evening Airshow, with a Lake Street, Leighton Buzzard vehicle parade featuring some of their Box office tel: 0300 300 8125 rarer vehicles and agricultural exhibits. Adults £28; children under Cinderella (PG) 16 free.

Tuesday 26 May, 5pm Tel: 01767 627927 Leighton Buzzard Library Theatre, www.shuttleworth.org Lake Street, Leighton Buzzard Box office tel: 0300 300 8125 Tree Fu Tom Saturday 23 May, 1pm & 3.30pm Minion Crafts Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Tuesday 26 May, 2.30-3.30pm Drive, Dunstable Follow Tom, Twigs, Toddington Library Ariela and friends on an action Crafts for children of all ages with a packed adventure through the Minions theme. magical world of Treetopolis!

Tickets tel: 01582 60 20 80 (option7) Marston Mud www.grovetheatre.co.uk/ Tuesday 26 May, 10am, 11am and 1.30pm Family Fun Time: Charlie Cook’s Forest Centre And Millennium Country Favourite Book Park, Station Road, Marston Saturday 23 May, 11.00am-11.45am, Moretaine, Bedford, MK43 0PR. Leagrave Libray Mud modelling! £4 per child.

Saturday 23 May, 2.15pm- 3pm, www.marstonvale.org Marsh Farm Library To book, call 01234 767037 Saturday 30 May, 11.00am-11.45am, Luton Central Libray Saturday 30 May, 2.15pm- 3pm, Stopsley Library From kings and queens to aliens and ghosts, there's something for everyone in Charlie Cook's amazing book! Children aged 3+ and their families. Free, donations welcome.

Kate Greenaway Favourites Tuesday 26 May, 11.00am-11.45am, Bury Park Libray Tuesday 26 May, 2.15pm- 3pm, Luton Central Library Wednesday 27 May, 11.00am-11.45am, Leagrave Libray Wednesday 27 May, 2.15pm- 3pm, Stopsley Library Thursday 28 May, 11.00am-11.45am, Marsh Farm Libray Tuesday 28 May, 2.15pm- 3pm, Lewsey Library A picture book party featuring the best Greenaway nominations. Who will win your vote for this year's prize?

Children aged 5+. Free, donations welcome

Sow a salad: Kids Gardening Clubs Thursday 28 May, 10am -12 noon Luton Hoo Walled Garden, Luton Aimed at children aged 4-10 years old. £10 per child.

Tel 01582 721 443 to book.

Insect Crafts Friday 29 May, 2.30-4pm Stotfold Library Craft for children of all ages with insect theme.

25th St Philips and St James Charity Golf Day Friday 29 May Mowsbury Golf Course, Bedford Golf and dinner in aid of MS Therapy Centre in Bedford and Northants and Arts and Craft Playstation Sue Ryder St John's Hospice, Tuesday 26 May, 10am-4pm Moggerhanger. More info: Mike Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Chappell Tel: 07973 703340 email: Road, Luton mikechappell43@btinternet.com Paint your wagon. Discover Vardo Art, a traditional style of decorating horse How the Koala Loved to Hug drawn wagons, used by British Sunday 31 May, 2.30pm Romani people. Take inspiration from Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court the Vardos on display at the Discovery Drive, Dunstable Centre. £2.50 per child A charming tale about the magic of family and the importance of a nice, Train the troops warm hug.

Tuesday 26 May to Friday 29 May, www.grovetheatre.co.uk/ 11am-5pm Wrest Park , Silsoe, Silsoe, Tel: 01582 60 20 80 (option 7) MK45 4HR Discover Wrest Park’s secret wartime past with this hands on Beautiful Butterflies experience of soldiers on the front Sunday 31 May, 2-3.30pm line.

Dunstable Downs, Chilterns Gateway www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrest Centre, Dunstable Road, Whipsnade Explore Whipsnade Downs with the The SpongeBob Movie (U) Ranger Team and discover more Wednesday 27 May, 2pm about the beautiful butterflies that call Leighton Buzzard Library Theatre, the Downs home. £4 each Lake Street, Leighton Buzzard Tel: 01582 500920, Box office tel: 0300 300 8125 email:

JOHN BUNYAN MUSEUM

Bedford

.................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................

DISCOVER THE BEDFORD MAN WHOSE WRITINGS TOUCHED THE WORLD... ............................................................................................................

Family holiday fun A warm welcome Summer exhibition School and group visits Open February to October half-terms* Tue to Sat, 11am to 4pm *Closed Good Friday

............................................................................................................

Mill Street, Bedford, MK40 3EU www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk/museum

01234 270303

Potted Pantos: Mini 2 Saturday 6 June, 2pm Potted Pantos: Mini 1 Saturday 6 June, 4.30pm Both at Leighton Buzzard Library Theatre, Lake Street, Leighton Buzzard. LBCT production Box office tel: 0300 300 8125

Family Fun Time: Jungle Adventures Saturday 6 June, 11-11.45am, Leagrave Library, 2.15-3pm, Marsh June Farm Library, Saturday 13 June, 11-11.45am, Lost Landscapes Luton Central Library. 2.15-3pm, Continues until 21 June Marsh Farm Library Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Find your favourite jungle tale on a Road, Luton family sized adventure as part of A photographic exhibition exploring Bookstart Week.

Pop Factor: The Concert the evolution of landscapes; those that Children aged 3+ and their families.

Wednesday 27 May, 6.30pm have been lost, changed or been Free, donations welcome.

Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court rediscovered and questions what may Drive, Dunstable, happen to our landscapes in the Airshow featuring the Light Aircraft A must-see, fantastic concert future. Free, donations welcome Association ('LAA') experience that the whole family can Sunday 7 June, gates open 11am; enjoy. Tel: 01582 60 20 80 (option7) Green Man Garden event and Park airshow begins 2pm www.grovetheatre.co.uk Champion launch The Shuttleworth Collection , Wednesday 4 June 10-12 noon Shuttleworth (Old Warden) Creepy Crawly Crafts The Grange, Bedford Road, Addison Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade Wednesday 27 May, 2.30-4.30pm Howard Park, Kempston, Bedford Annual air show bringing together Wootton Library Part of Volunteering Week. Contact: aircraft from the Collection, sponsored volunteering@bedford.gov.uk. by the LAA and visiting aircraft, owned Duck in the Truck or built by members. Adults £28; Thursday 28 May, children under 16 free.

The Factory Children 11.30am & 2.30pm Tel: 01767 627927 Friday 5 June & Friday 6 June, Leighton Buzzard Library Theatre, www.shuttleworth.org 7.30pm Lake Street, Leighton Buzzard Leighton Buzzard Library Theatre, Blunderbus Theatre have adapted the Tug of War – the Heats Lake Street, Leighton Buzzard Jez Alborough book for the stage.

Leighton Buzzard Children's Theatre Sunday 7 June from 1.30pm Box office tel: 0300 300 8125 Millennium Park, Dunstable Road, (LBCT) production for all the family.

Flitwick Box office tel: 0300 300 8125 Superheroes Crafts Enter a team of 10 and compete for Thursday 28 May, 11am-12noon the shield to become Flitwick Toddington Libray 100 images of migration Carnival's 2015 Tug of Saturday 6 June – Sunday 19 July War Champions. Entry forms from Leaf spotting in the nature reserve Wardown Park Museum, Old Bedford carnival@flitwick.gov.uk or Thursday 28 May, 2-4pm Road, Luton tel: 01525 631900.

Stotfold Mill, Mill Lane, Stotfold Leaf 100 photographs which tell a story spotting in the nature reserve next to about migration; social and cultural Stotfold Mill. www.stotfoldmill.com history comes to life. Free Working Wednesdays Wednesday 27 May, 12 noon-2pm Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road, Luton Go along to Stockwood Discovery Centre to see stationary steam engines in all their working glory.

Free, donations welcome.

dunstabledowns@nationaltrust.org.uk

Bookstart Rhyme Time: Jungle Adventures Monday 8 June, 2.15-2.45pm, Lewsey Library Tuesday 9 June, 09.30am-10am, Bury Park Library, 11.00am-11.30am, Luton Central Libray, 2.15pm-2.45pm, Marsh Farm Library Wednesday 10 June, 9.30-10am, Leagrave Libray, 9.30-10am, Stopsley Library, 10.30-11am, Leagrave Library Thursday 11 June, 10.15-10.45am, Marsh Farm Library, 2.15-2.45pm, Stopsley Library Take a swing through the library book jungle with your own little monkey to celebrate Bookstart Week.

Free, donations welcome Bedford Kite Festival Saturday 6 June - Sunday 7 June Russell Park, Bedford Kites, food stalls entertainment! More info: www.bedfordevents.co.uk Open Farm Sunday Sunday 7 June Find out the story behind our food in Bedfordshire farms and beyond!

More info on your nearest farm see www.farmsunday.org/ Music in the Park Begins Sunday 7 June, 3pm-5pm & every Sunday until September.

Parsons Close Recreation Ground, Pulford Road, Leighton Buzzard.

Brass and silver band programme of music. Organised by Leighton Linslade Council. More info: www.leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk The Big Lunch Sunday 7 June Leighton Buzzard Town Centre Have lunch with your neighbours!

Organised by Leighton Linslade Council.More info: www.leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk

To advertise: 01727 373929

May/June 2015

15

FLITWICK TOWN COUNCIL PRESENTS... .TQ\ _QKSKIZVQ^IT

SATURDAY 13TH JUNE 12 NOON - 7PM THE MILLENNIUM PARK DUNSTABLE ROAD, FLITWICK, MK45 IHP

Spectacular

LINE THE STREETS AT 11.15AM FOR THE PARADE! Parade Route: Rufus Centre - Steppingley Road - Dunstable Road - Temple Way

Arena Acts

Bar Bus

Heart Radio, Food, Stalls, Balloon Release /ZIVL :INÆM 8ZQbM ,ZI_ _Q\P .IJ]TW][ 8ZQbM[

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Live Music from 4pm - 7pm For more details call 01525 631900

The perfect family day out!

FILMS THEME!

Gold Sponsors:

What’s on Flitwick Carnival 2015 Saturday 13 June, 12 noon - 7pm Millennium Park, Dunstable Road, Flitwick Fun-filled day for all with parade, arena acts and more! www.facebook.com/Flitwickcarnival

Family Fun Time: Mr Large in Charge Saturday 20June, 11.00am-11.45am, Leagrave Libray Saturday 20 June, 2.15pm- 3pm, Marsh Farm Library Celebrate fathers with stories, including Jill Murphy classic. Does your Daddy do the Cha Cha Cha? Suitable for ages 3+. Free, donations welcome

Milton Keynes Dragon Boat Race Sunday 21 June Willen Lakes, Milton Keynes In aid of Age UK Milton Keynes www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk/dragon-boat-festivals/milton-keynes/milton-keynes-festival/

A Midsummer Soiree Tuesday 23 June, fizz and canapes included in ticket price of £25 at 7.15pm & the concert starts at 7.45pm South Farm, Shingay-cum-Wendy Fundraising concert for Abington Open Day -- National Gardens Pigotts Village Hall featuring Adam Scheme Walking Trail around Stotfold Protz, pianist composer, Caritas Saturday 13 June, 9.30am-5pm Sunday 21 June, 12.30pm-5pm Harmony, ladies' choir and the The Shuttleworth Collection , Stotfold Mill, Mill Lane, Stotfold Pick Greenfield String Quartet. South Shuttleworth (Old Warden) up a fun quiz from the Mill which will Farm will be opening their glorious Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade Fathers Day at the Collection guide you around Stotfold. Trail sheet gardens for guests from 6pm and Open Day at the Swiss Garden as Sunday 21 June - £1 donation. there will be an opportunity to picnic in part of the NGS. Adults £8; children The Shuttleworth Collection , www.stotfoldmill.com/ the grounds - bring your own or book under 16 free www.shuttleworth.org Shuttleworth (Old Warden) one in advance. More info and tickets: Tel: 01767 627927 Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade Caritas Harmony Concert tel: 01763 853696 Treat your dad to a three course lunch Sunday 21 June, 6.30pm www.abingtonpigotts.org Luton Festival of Transport and entry to the Shuttleworth Grove Theatre, Dunstable Sunday 14 June Collection Caritas Harmony (formerly Pasque Family Fun Time: Mad Hatter’s Tea Stockwood Park, London Road, Luton Tel: 01767 627927 Harmony) the local award winning Party Classic vehicle show. www.shuttleworth.org choir will be singing a varied Saturday 27 June, More info: www.cvpg.net programme of songs to raise funds for 11.00am-11.45am, Luton Central Midsummer Eve in the Swiss Macmillan Cancer Support. Guest Libray Into the Woods Garden artist and compere to be confirmed.

Saturday 27 June, 2.15pm- 3pm, Friday 19 June, 7.30pm & Saturday Sunday 21 June, gates open 6pm; Tickets £15 available from the box Stopsley Library 20 June, 2pm & 7.30pm performance begins 7.30pm office 01582 602080 Come dressed as your favourite Leighton Buzzard Library Theatre, The Shuttleworth Collection , character and take part in a caucus Lake Street, Leighton Buzzard Shuttleworth (Old Warden) race to celebrate 150 years of Alice in The Advance Theatre Company Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade Wonderland. Suitable for ages 5+. present a wonderful twisted fairy tale The Manor House String Quartet Free, donations welcome in two acts with a score by Sondheim. presents a classical concert on the Box office tel: 0300 300 8125 theme of ‘Music for a Summer’s Evening’ in the beautiful and romantic Edwardian Picnic & Evening setting of the Shuttleworth Trust’s Airshow Swiss Garden. Adults £25; children Saturday 20 June, gates open under 16 free.

1am & airshow begins 6pm.

Tel: 01767 627927 The Shuttleworth Collection , www.shuttleworth.org/ Shuttleworth (Old Warden) Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade.

Father's Day Fun and Games Celebrate 50 years of the film "Those Sunday 21 June, 11am-5pm www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk Magnificent Men in their Flying Wrest Park , Silsoe, Silsoe, MK45 t: 01727 373929 Machines"! Adult £28; children under 4HR A chance to practise your skills 16 free.Tel: 01767 627927 at croquet, bowls and lawn tennis! www.shuttleworth.org/ www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrest