Families Sussex Coast Nov-Dec 2010 issue 14

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The really useful local magazine for families with children

To advertise with Families Sussex Coast magazine and reach 40,000+ parents get in touch today.

01273 231155 editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

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Front cover: www.woolworths.co.uk

Welcome...

Welcome & Contents Families

There is a five year old in our house who has become obsessed with arts and crafts – sticking, painting with washing up liquid, making kites, sprinkling glitter all over the house (oops forgot the glue), using his fabulous oil pastels or making fairy dust with chalk - it’s all about the making. It’s good stuff and with Christmas in mind we have followed his trend and had a look at Christmas and creativity. As well as things to make at home, there are lots of fun workshops to go and to create something sparkly. We’ve also got some great Christmas gifts in our fabulous gift guide and the change to win £250 with Hamleys, plus where to find Santa and some pantos in our very festive Families.

Merry Christmas! Susan x Editor, Families Sussex Coast Families Sussex Coast covers: Brighton, Hove, Eastbourne, Worthing, Lewes, Burgess Hill, Hassocks and everywhere in between.

Next issue January/February 11 : Advertising and editorial deadline is 9 December. You can contribute to Families Sussex Coast through advertising, editorial and our what’s on pages. Contact Families Sussex Coast: 01273 231155 editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Families Sussex Coast, PO Box 5189, Brighton BN50 9WN Printed by: Bishops Printers, www.bishops.co.uk Families Sussex Coast is printed using paper from sustainable forests. The pulp is cleaned using an elemental chlorine free process. Please recycle your copy of Families Sussex Coast when you have finished with it.

What’s inside News

4-5

A rabbit survey, a recipe book and a seafront quiz

Competitions

Win tickets to Cinderella and Holiday on Ice

4-5

Christmas gift guide

6

Christmas crafts

8

Mums in business

9

And win £250 at Hamleys

And some festive workshops near you

With their Christmas top gift tips

De-stressing divorce

10

Book reviews

11

A magical spectacular

12

What’s on

13-15

Collaborative law

Christmas books with the Book Nook

Copyright: Families Sussex Coast, October 2010.

Data protection: If you send us your name and address in order to receive free samples or to enter a competition, we may supply your details to the company offering the samples or prizes. If you would prefer us NOT to do so, please state this clearly on your entry.

Disclaimer: We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

Families Group: Families Sussex Coast is part of a group established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All magazines in the Group are independently owned and operated under licence.

November / December 2010

Holiday on Ice

Ice skating, pantos and Where’s Santa?

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WIN tickets to Cinderella A new fairy tale musical

a live orchestra. Everyone will love the Shetland

for Christmas will be

ponies, who are guaranteed to steal the show.

on at the Theatre Royal Brighton from 17

To win a family ticket to Cinderella, answer this:

New seafront quiz A free family quiz trail has been designed

December – 16 January.

Which food is used to make Cinderella’s

sparkling musical by the

sussexcoast.co.uk or Families Sussex Coast, PO

challenge with 27 questions taking in heritage

Box 5189, Brighton BN50 9WN by 5 December.

and history of Madeira Drive and some cool

To book tickets for Cinderella call 0844 8717 650

facts. Copies are available from Nivea Sun

or visit www.ambassadortickets.com/brighton.

Yellowave reception and Brighton Visitor

*Terms and conditions: Family ticket contains two children and two adult tickets. Tickets are valid from 17 December – 16 January. No purchase necessary. Tickets are non-exchangeable.

Information Centre. Children (age 6+) who

The tale of Cinderella has carriage? Send your answer with your name, address and phone number to editor@families been transformed into a creative team behind the West End hit Billy Elliott– The Musical. This spectacular show features sumptuous sets, lavish costumes, stunning special effects, a cast of West End performers and

RSPCA

rabbit survey

WONDERFUL welcome The children at Brighton College Pre-Prep School have given their new Headmistress, Jo Williams, a wonderful welcome.

by the team at Nivea Sun Yellowave beach volleyball centre. The trail is a fun observational

correctly answer 20 or more get to climb on the Yellowave bouldering wall free. Contact 01273 672222 or www.yellowave.co.uk.

Green flag at Hertford Contgratulations to Hertford Infant and Nursery School who have become the first infant school in Brighton and Hove to be awarded a second Green Flag for its commitment to

“There’s a fantastic atmosphere in the school,

eco work, sustainability and the environment.

such a warm and friendly feel. The children are

Caroline Lucas will be visiting on the morning

well-mannered and polite, always have a smile

of 5 November to celebrate the achievement

The RSPCA are asking rabbit owners to take

to share and are constantly showing me their

and present the flag the school.

part in its biggest ever rabbit survey. The

work and special stickers!” says Jo. “I’ve been

results of the survey will help the RSPCA to

really impressed, too, by the wonderful team of

understand why people choose rabbits as

dedicated staff, whose absolute priority is to instil

pets and develop advice on rabbit care.

a love of learning at this crucial age.”

Sadly, thousands of rabbits end up in

Keen to show the school in action, Jo is planning a

Little Fidgets are expanding and are looking for

RSPCA rescue centres every year. The

range of special events, starting with a Reception

linguists to run pre-school classes, for a few

charity hopes that by increasing awareness

Open House on 7 January, with a raft of fun

hours per week, term-time only. Visit www.

and understanding of rabbits’ needs, it will

activities on offer, from dance to face-painting.

littlefidgets.co.uk/recruitment or call Lucy

see a reduction in the number of rabbits

“Demand for places at Brighton College is at an all-

on 01273 833340 to find out more.

coming to its rescue centres. Complete the

time high,” Jo adds, “so I’d urge parents to contact

survey by visiting

us as soon as possible, especially for September

www.greatbigrabbitsurvey.org.

2011 entry.” Contact 01273 704222 or prepadmissions@brightoncollege.net.

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News in brief

French and Spanish speakers wanted

POSITIVE birthing If you are pregnant and feeling anxious about

labour, a weekend away in Eastbourne could be

News & competitions Families

WIN tickets to Holiday on Ice, Energia

the key to feeling calm for the birth of your baby.

The Guesthouse East, a four-star boutique hotel, is launching positive birthing weekends designed to help mums-to-be feel prepared. The course aims to empower women

Holiday on Ice, Energia is more extravagant, more

to achieve the birthing

exhilarating and more spectacular than anything

experience they desire by

ever before staged on ice and will be at the Brighton

learning techniques such

Centre 11-30 January 2011. Over 40 skaters will

as positive visualisation

take you through the story of our universe and with

and pain management. Wrapped up with

its revolutionary three-dimensional setting, you will be

pampering treatments these seaside getaways

whisked into the great universe where planets spin

are the ultimate stress relief for a mum-to-be.

around you in glorious colours and spectrums of light.

Families readers are entitled to get 10%

We have teamed up with the Brighton Centre and

discount – simply mention Families Sussex

have a family ticket for you to win to Holiday on Ice,

Coast when booking. To find out more contact

Energia. To enter answer this question: What is the

07950 315607, book@theguesthouseeast.

largest planet? Send your answer with your name,

co.uk or www.theguesthouseeast.co.uk.

address and phone number to editor@families sussexcoast.co.uk or Families Sussex Coast, PO

NEW NURSERY

recipe book

Box 5189, Brighton BN50 9WN by 5 December.

To book tickets for Energia call 08448 471538 or visit www.brightoncentre.co.uk. All kid’s tickets are £12. *Terms and conditions: Family ticket can contain a mixture of children and adult tickets. Tickets are valid from 10-30 January.

No purchase necessary. Tickets are non-exchangeable.

The newly launched Early Years Childcare recipe book is filled with healthy recipes created by nutritionists and used in their nurseries.

The book includes tasty recipes such as butternut squash and sweet potato soup, and raspberry muffins.

50p from the sale of each book is being donated to the Rockinghorse Children’s Charity. You can order an Early Years Childcare recipe book by calling 01273 778775.

November / December 2010

SKY LANTERNS causing concern

Sky lanterns are thought to bring good luck and prosperity but they are causing concern to farmers and Coastguards. Lanterns can include metal parts that can harm livestock and lanterns used near the coast can be mistaken for distress flares. Advice is to buy lanterns that are 100% biodegradable with good operating instructions. Coastguards ask anyone releasing lanterns near the coast to alert them to avoid any confusion. For more information contact 01323 463420 or trading. standards@eastsussex.gov.uk.

SAY YOU SAW IT IN

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Families gift guide

by Holly Wadsworth-Hill

The nights have drawn in, there’s a magical feel, a chill in the air and more than one kind of wrapping-up on everyone’s mind - Christmas is on its way! Whether that fills you with ho, ho, ho’s or Scrooge-like groans, we hope our guide will help make this year a Christmas to remember...

It’s the thought that counts...

Recent economic difficulties have triggered a new dawn of consumerism.

Many of us are now concentrating on quality purchases that will stand

For her Creativity is a girl’s best friend; indulge her imagination with everything from dressing-up costumes, role-play sets to arts and crafts.

the test of time. Nostalgia has unveiled tradition as the new vogue and

92429 – Dolly Tea Set £10 This enchanting Hamleys tea set comes in a cute carry case.

whilst the latest crazes and popular characters certainly have their place, there’s a reason why some of the old favourites are resurfacing and proving their worth to a new generation of inquisitive minds. Children like

783969 – My Balleria Doll £12 From the Sweet Peas collection, this doll is great for encouraging imagination and nurturing role-play skills.

to be entertained but they thrive on interaction, they will happily watch but they learn quicker from doing, they benefit from competition but they enjoy team work. Classic toys are all this and they really do have timeless appeal. With that in mind this year, why not focus on something they will

It’s all about quality time...

love this Christmas but will treasure for many more to come...

Baby’s first Christmas

Keep things merry with games for the whole family.

681346 – Games Chest £60

Latest additions may be slightly oblivious to the seasonal chaos but you’ll

www.hamleys.com

remember their first Christmas forever. Nothing says ‘I love you’ like a keepsake or something they can cherish for years to come.

663336 – My First Dolly £19 My First Dolly will be loved by all. She is so squeezably soft that little arms will adore snuggling up to her.

463497 – Alphabet Blocks £17 These wooden blocks can help little children when learning letters, colours and much more besides.

T is for trouble and toddlers!

Busy little hands are into all things naughty as well as nice, so classic toys should be at the top of the list. The educational and developmental benefits are extensive but cleverly masked behind the colour, fun and excitement that toddlers crave.

780114 – Teaching Clock £14 Hamleys colourful Fun to Learn Teaching Clock helps teach time, number and letter recognition (made from fsc wood).

778498 – Wooden London Bus £32.50 The big red bus opens to reveal 24 little wooden passengers and one cheerful driver (made from fsc wood).

For him

Top 10 toys for Christmas 2010 For guaranteed smiles you can’t go wrong tracking down something from this list. Be warned, these toys are set to fly off the shelves, so don’t miss out!

´ Toy Story 3 Buzz Lightyear Action Figure ´ Dr Who Sonic Screwdriver ´ Ben 10 Ultimate Alien Disc Ultimatrix ´ Beyblade Metal Fusion Super Vortex Battle Set ´ Barbie Video Girl ´ VTech Storio Animated Phonics Book ´ Kung Zhu Hamsters ´ Armouron Action Set ´ VTech Kidizoom Video Camera ´ Monopoly Revolutions Board Game

WIN ´£250´ of Hamleys vouchers

Boys of all ages love fun and games that they can really get stuck into. If he can burn off some energy, create mess and make some noise, he’ll be

To celebrate 250 years of The Finest Toys in the World,

in his element!

Hamleys have teamed up with Families magazines to 157982 – Jet Plane Set £55 The Playmobil Jet Plane Set is great for developing thinking processes and creative play.

give you the chance to win £250 of Hamleys vouchers.

To enter log on to www.familiesonline.co.uk/competitions Vouchers can be used online at

780585 – Wooden Garage £65 There are loads of games and adventures to be had with this traditional role-play garage.

www.hamleys.com or in their stores.

Closing date for the competition is 8 December.

See online for full Terms and Conditions.

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Gift guide and Hamleys compettion Families

November / December 2010

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Crafts for Christmas

A few sparkly ideas to get your creative Christmas going, and some crafts near you for more glitter fun.

Hanging handprint Rudolph

Collage picture frame

Armadilloh Arts A team of artists who do facepainting, art workshops at parties, schools, fun days and festivals.

07718 497418 www.armadilloharts.com

You will need: Brown paper (or large brown

Artyfacts Cornerstone Community Centre, Hove After school classes based on visual expression, experimentation and fun. Wednesdays 3.45-5.15pm Two day Christmas workshop 21-22 December, 9.30am-5pm. 07989 472760 www.arty-facts.co.uk

envelope) Pencil Scissors

Crafty Jac Painting Pottery Café, North Road, Brighton Sewing classes for mums. Wednesdays 10am www.craftyjac.com 07775438920

Glue Hole punch

Family lantern making workshops Brighton Lantern making workshops for Burning the Clocks parade on 21 December. www.burningtheclocks.co.uk

String or ribbon Googly eyes 1. Trace around your child’s foot and both hands using brown paper or back of an old envelope.

This picture frame was made from a rectangle cut from a cardboard box and covered with bits that would normally have been thrown away!

2. Glue the hands as antlers to the top of the

Glitterbug tip of the month.

footprint.

Keep a bag or box of any interesting bits and

3. Glue a red paper nose and googly eyes to the reindeer.

pieces. Old bits of wrapping paper, ribbons, feathers, old buttons, scraps of material, even the corrugated card outer from your

4. Allow to dry, punch a hole in the top of the

Starbucks cappuccino can keep kids busy

head and hang with thread, string or ribbon.

for hours.

Ideas by Glitterbug. www.glitterbugfun.co.uk

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Christmas crafts near you

Workshops For The Imagination 75 Islingword Road, Brighton. Art studio for children.

Christmas workshops include decorations and pop up cards. 01273 818325 info@workshopsfortheimagination.com Love Art Saltdean, Brighton Children’s art workshop. After school and holiday club.

01273 390618 www.iheartloveart.com Print Stitch Make Hangleton Community Centre, Hove Printing, hand and machine sewing, dyeing and embroidery for ages 7 – 12. Saturdays 9 -11am 07920 482310 annapsm@live.co.uk Red Jelly Hove Methodist Church Creative play for kids under 6. Week day classes and workshops on 6 November and 4 December for fun and mess. 01273 930013 www.redjellykids.co.uk

See our what’s on pages 13 - 15 for lots more Christmas craft activities near you.

Mums in business Families

Sussex mums in business

Supporting local business can have fantastic benefits for your community – employing local people, using local suppliers and produce. What’s more, mums running businesses can often provide niche products and services, designed with kids in mind. Some Sussex mums tell us about their unique products for your Christmas shopping list…

Babyblack and Supernatural Kids Clothing

Beautiful sustainable clothing Jenny Barrett recently made the brave first steps to launching her own baby and kids clothing business. Babyblack offers soft organic cotton

CHOC Chick Love make chocolate,

chocolate.

Galia started CHOC Chick in 2008 from a desire to find a fulfilling job to fit with family life and her passion for chocolate. CHOC Chick kits are chocolate making kits with raw cacao ingredients and simple recipes so you can make

Galia had a steep learning curve to make CHOC

and enjoy chocolate that is good for you.

Chick a success - understanding barcodes, retail

baby clothes in black

Galia says, ‘I love the fact that CHOC Chick

and Supernatural Kids

kits are all about goodness. The kits contain

Clothing offer clothes in

only good quality, organic ingredients - we

groovy colours for children

work directly with cooperatives in Ecuador. The

aged 1-5.

chocolates are easy to make and taste delicious

Both ranges use eco fabrics and are ethically produced. Jenny says ‘I did a degree in fashion a million years ago so I was really excited to find out about sustainability in the textile industry today. I’m using a mix of organic cotton and Modal at the moment for Supernatural Kids Clothing – Modal is made from sustainably farmed beech trees and is really so much safer environmentally than cotton. There are also fabrics made from weird things like seaweed, carrots and even milk! I want to find out more about all of this and share the knowledge with my customers – I think there’s a real thirst for knowledge of all things eco these days.’

Jenny’s top tip for Christmas: Happy Hopperz – bonkers and bright space hoppers for little ones available through Jenny’s website www.babyblack.co.uk www.supernaturalkidsclothing.co.uk

November / December 2010

and because they are high in antioxidant

buying cycles and being determined. It took her three months to get a meeting with the buyer of John Lewis Food Halls and another year to get her first order. But her persistence was worth it and CHOC Chick is now available in John Lewis as well as from her website.

flavanols and are free from dairy, gluten and

Galia’s top tip for Christmas: What could be

processed sugar, they are good for you too!’

better than a CHOC Chick kit to make and enjoy delicious chocolate? Visit www.chocchick.com.

A tale of two shops

Two shops and two daughters certainly keep Michelle Marcar challenged. Michelle opened Cheeky Monkeys, selling children’s toys and clothes after the birth of her first daughter. Following the birth of her second daughter, and her passion for homes and interiors, she now has Pebbles in Rottingdean.

Pebbles is a gift shop selling a range of beautiful products including jewellery, fragrances and books.

you hear the wonderful comments about how other people love them too. It’s great to be in control and to invest in your own business makes it all worthwhile.’

Michelle’s top tip for Christmas: The Orelia range of jewellery will prove irresistible and also stylish bath products all available from Pebbles.

Pebbles Christmas shopping extravaganza is 3 December, 10-6pm. Visit Michelle says, ‘It’s a lovely feeling when you take Pebbles and Cheeky Monkeys on Rottingdean High Street or at www.pebbles.me.uk or time and care in choosing products, and then www.cheeky-monkeys.me.uk.

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Taking the stress

out of divorce

Sadly, divorce lawyers often find that divorce cases peak just after the Christmas period. Collaborative law can take the stress out of the situation.

Sir Nicholas Wall, the President of the Family Division of the High Court, recently highlighted the damage caused to children in the divorce process in a speech to Families Need Fathers. He said that: “Often the parties are fighting over again the battles of the relationship, and the children are both the battlefield and the ammunition.” Sir Nicholas went on to say that it was

vital to reduce the adversarial nature of the divorce courts but that this would be difficult, particularly as separating parents “rarely behave reasonably”. Sir Nicholas also said “Parents simply do not realise the damage they do to their children by the battles they wage over them.”

Have You Heard Of Collaborative Law? Collaborative lawyers commit themselves to resolving family issues including divorce, financial support and children without going to Court. Collaborative lawyers will meet with their clients in the normal way and then, almost immediately, meet their opposite number to discuss the process, timing and needs of the couple. The meeting is followed by a series of four way (round table) meetings between the couple and their respective advisers where every aspect of the divorce/separation is discussed and agreed. The idea is that acrimony is reduced as the separating couple are involved in any decision rather than a Court.

To collaborate, the parties each need to appoint a qualified Collaborative Lawyer. In England and Wales, Resolution, the family lawyers organisation, has sole responsibility for the training and accreditation of all collaborative professionals. You can find a Collaborative lawyer by contacting Resolution (01689 820272 or www.resolution.org.uk). If the parties have the confidence in their lawyers to approach the negotiations with realism they will save time and money and are more likely to end up with a settlement that they want.

The Brighton Collaborative Family Law Group has been formed by lawyers qualified to practice Collaborative Law. The lawyers work from different practices, ensuring independence, but represent the interests of either of the parties in a collaborative process. Solicitors from the Brighton Collaborative Family Law Group www.cflbrighton.co.uk are able to represent clients immediately. Please contact Michael Hayes or Julia Dyson on telephone: 01273 766950 or email: michael.hayes@bunkers.co.uk or julia. dyson@bunkers.co.uk for further information.

SAY YOU SAW IT IN

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Christmas book reviews Families

Bookwithreviews The Book Nook

By Vanessa Lewis

Shortlisted for Children’s Independent Bookseller of the Year, The Book Nook is located in First Avenue, Hove. With a wide selection of children’s books, a child friendly cafe and events most weekends and holidays why not visit us and make a day of it.

01273 911988 www.booknookuk.com.

Aliens Love Panta Claus (Preschool 0-5)

The Santa Trap (All ages)

by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort

by Jonathan Emmett and Poly Bernatene

Cows in Action - The Battle for Christmoos (Age 7+)

This new title from the bestselling series has

Bradley Bartleby is bad – very bad – and Santa

by Steve Cole

the same winning formula of bright vibrant

Claus knows it so when Bradley empties his

Another fun and festive adventure for the time

illustrations and jaunty rhyming text and children

stocking to find nothing but a pair of socks,

travelling cows as once again they endeavour

will delight in the pants-tastic assistance the

he hatches a devious plan. With delicious

to keep history on the right track. In this book

mischievous aliens give Santa Claus. Not only

illustrations conveying Bradley’s trap that

a festive booby – trap sends Professor McMoo

do they pack a pair of pants for all the boys and

consists of dynamite, trapdoors and even a

and his gang back to Christmas 1066 where

girls but frilly knickers are put on the elves, neon

tiger, this book is a visual treat to be shared.

they find William the Conqueror at the centre

pants on the reindeer and even Santa’s sack

Everyone loves a naughty child within the

of a sinister mystery. The Cows in Action series

gets swapped for spotty bloomers. This is a

confines of a picture book and this book offers a

are great fun to read, offer some insight in to

perfect read aloud book that children will love as

dark, funny and refreshing alternative to some of

key historical moments and there are quirky

part of the run up to Christmas.

the more traditional Christmas offerings.

little drawings throughout, to entertain young readers.

. .

November / December 2010

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A magical spectacular

on ice

We look at the revolutionary experience of Holiday on Ice that isn’t just about sequins and definitely not to be missed.

wow factor. Flying skaters, magical lighting and sets above your head left you breathless and wondering how an earth they did it. It certainly kept my four year old son captivated, with the show including some great sections for kids with baffling magic tricks. In fact, I think it’s the only show that he’s sat through without asking for more sweets or when it’s going to finish.

Holiday on Ice is once again coming to Brighton this January and if you haven’t been for a while then it’s definitely time to take another look.

My own memories of the show are of a cold Wembley Arena with sparkly ladies in big head-dresses skating the ‘pin wheel’ - entertaining in a popular culture, 80s bling sort of way. So, it was with some trepidation that I took my son to Holiday on Ice in Brighton a year ago, expecting a similar evening of sequined entertainment, but I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised.

The themes were beautifully considered, with wonderful music, scintillating choreography, superb costumes and ever changing scenes, enthralling everyone. Yes the sequins are still there, but Holiday on Ice wouldn’t be Holiday on Ice without them (and the men were equally as sparkly as the ladies!).

But it was the sheer technological genius of the sets that really gives the

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This year Holiday on Ice is back and takes you through the story of the universe. You can expect a revolutionary three-dimensional set and breathtaking skating to keep you on the edge of your seat, with promises of a stilt walker skating while juggling with fire and clowns jumping through blazing hoops.

Forget 80s bling, Holiday on Ice is a truly spectacular show that will thrill the whole family… and if you haven’t been for a while, it’s time you did!

FACTS about Holiday on Ice n Holiday on Ice has been going since 1943. n Five different Holiday on Ice shows tour the world on a yearly basis. n 250 skaters and 120 crew members reach an audience in 15 different countries and 80 cities. n 320 million people have visited a Holiday on Ice show. n The Guinness Book of Records describes Holiday on Ice as ‘the most popular live entertainment show producer in the world’.

Holiday on Ice is at the Brighton Centre on 11-30 January. To book tickets call 08448 471538 or visit www.brightoncentre.co.uk.

What’s on Families

Our What’s On pages are put together several weeks beforehand and whilst we aim to be as accurate as we can, there may be some changes.

Always contact the venue in advance to check details.

Theatre A Midsummer Night’s Dream - Shakespeare 4 Kidz 11-12 November Pavilion Theatre, Worthing

A Christmas Carol

Aladdin

On Christmas Eve the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge is whisked away on a journey through the past and into the future.

01903 206206 www.worthingtheatres.co.uk

Starring Alex from CBeebies, a treasure trove of jewels, gems and riches await you as part of a glittering spectacle.

01903 206206 www.worthingtheatres.co.uk

26-27 November Connaught Theatre, Worthing

The Sounds of Christmas

Fairies and fun, royalty and romance, magic and misunderstandings with music.

01903 206206 www.worthingtheatres.co.uk

9 December Winter Garden, Floral Hall, Eastbourne

Sunflowers and Sheds

28 November Pavilion Theatre, Brighton Dome Through the changing seasons, the seeds of friendship grow side by side with the raspberries, runner beans, memories and dreams.

01273 709709 www.brightondome.org

Laura’s Star

15 November Pavilion Theatre, Brighton Dome A girl learns that friendship can mean letting go of your most precious treasures.

01273 709709 www.brightondome.org

English Youth Ballet Auditions 15 November Connaught Theatre, Worthing

An opportunity for 100 boys and girls to perform the classical ballet Giselle .

01903 206206 www.worthingtheatres.co.uk

The Likes of Us

16-20 November Pavilion Theatre, Worthing Sussex Musical Productions present a musical about the story of Dr Barnardos.

01903 206206 www.worthingtheatres.co.uk

Santa’s Tickly Tale Age 3+ 23 November - 5 December Iambic Arts Theatre, Regent Street, Brighton

A fun, festive, Christmas frolic for kids.

08450 171077 www.iambicarts.com

Shakespeare Festival 25-28 November Brighton Dome

A wealth of Shakespearean events.

Suitable for families are:

La Fille Mal Gardee

28 November Congress Theatre, Eastbourne A Ballet in two acts. A company of young dancers from East and West Sussex, Kent and Surrey 01323 412000 www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk

Great Big Christmas Sing

30 November - 2 December and 7 December Congress Theatre, Eastbourne Sing with the East Sussex Music Service.

01323 412000 www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk

Diversity

3 December The Brighton Centre Jaw dropping routines and state-of-theart lighting plus music as diverse as their performances.

0844 847 1515 www.brightoncentre.co.uk

25-26 November Your waiter will take your order from a menu of Shakespeare’s greatest hits.

The actors will then perform nourishing speeches and bite-size scenes.

Age 11-15

28 November A workshop examining some of Shakespeare’s most famous scenes through games and improvisation.

01273 709709 www.brightondome.org

November /December 2010

Robin and the Big Freeze

8-12 December Pavilion Theatre, Brighton Dome A festive family treat, Robin and the Big Freeze breaks the ice and warms the heart with fantastic puppets, live music and bird-watching for all.

01273 709709 www.brightondome.org

´

´

Cinderella Traditional panto in Eastbourne or lavish production at Theatre Royal Brighton

´

´Martlet’s New Year’s Eve Walk´ A fantastic alternative way to see in the new year. 31 December

Check website for films.

0871 704 2056 www.picturehouses.co.uk

10 December - 16 January Devonshire Park Theatre, Eastbourne Starring Gillian Wright (EastEnders’ Jean Slater) as Fairy Godmother and Clare Buckfield. Will Cinderella make it to the ball? Do the ugly sisters use polyfilla in their make-up routine? Find out in this traditional family pantomime.

01323 412000 www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk

Cinderella

17 December - 16 January Theatre Royal Brighton The classic story of Cinderella will be brought to life with breathtaking special effects, in a lavish production for children of all ages.

08448 717 650 www.ambassadortickets.com/brighton

Rabbits, Ladders and Stars in Jars 20-31 December Komedia, Brighton

The cotton-wool tale, of a young rabbit named Nelson whose hobby is stargazing, told with puppetry and music. www.komedia.co.uk

´

Burning the Clocks Wrap up warm and enjoy the spectacle.

21 December

Cinderella

Duke of York cinema, Brighton Starts 10.30am with drawing and a competition with a film at 11am.

Saturday morning pictures

Connaught 2 Screen, Worthing Every Saturday at 10.15am 6 November: Tinkerbell and the Great Fairy Rescue 13 November: The Sorcerer’s Apprentice 20 November: Marmaduke 27 November: Diary of a Wimpy Kid 4 December: Up 3D 11 December: Home Alone 18 December: A Christmas Carol 3D 01903 206206 www.worthingtheatres.co.uk

Activities and events Story time and singing Every week day at 4pm and singing Friday at 10.30am

The Book Nook, First Avenue, Hove 01273 911988 www.booknookuk.com

Sing out!

Every Monday 7pm St Michael and All Angels Church Hall, South Street, Lancing A light-hearted sing. All welcome. janine.mare@ropetacklecentre.co.uk 01273 464440

Peter and the Wolf Age 7+

21 December Concert Hall, Brighton Dome The new film, screened with a live performance, reworks Prokofiev’s masterpiece with ingenious new twists.

01273 709709 www.brightondome.org

Age 10+

Looks a real treat. From 13 November

Saturday morning Kids’ Club

3-31 December Connaught Theatre, Worthing Starring Linda Nolan, this classic tale features the Wicked Queen, Muddles, Dame Dolly Dumpling and the Seven Dwarfs.

01903 206206 www.worthingtheatres.co.uk

´Skating at the Royal Pavilion ´

Come and share the Sounds of Christmas with the Salvation Army.

01323 412000 www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk

Snow White

Shakespeare a la carte

Shakespeare made Easy

9 December - 2 January Pavilion Theatre, Worthing

favourites

Our top picks for November and December

Cinema Big Scream!

Duke of York Cinema, Brighton Every Wednesday morning at 11am mums, dads and carers with babies under one can enjoy a great film at the Duke of York Cinema, Brighton.

See website for films. www.picturehouses.co.uk

Tots That Rock - baby and toddler music group Mondays and Fridays 10.30 - 11.30am The Bridge Inn, High Street, Shoreham-by-Sea

Singing and dancing and chat with other mums, dads and carers. Just turn up.

07961 363658

Comets and curry

6 November The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux Enjoy a curry and look for shooting stars with long bright trails which are associated with the Taurids meteor shower.

01323 832731 www.the-observatory.org

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St Peter’s PTA Bonfire and Fireworks display

01273 497561 www.sussexwt.org.uk

Come and join St Peter’s PTA as they set off over £2,000 of fireworks.

Earthship Tours

Experience the eco-build and be inspired to respond to climate change. www.lowcarbon.co.uk

Baby Loves Disco 7 November Komedia, Brighton

Shake your moves in the dance party for the under7s and their families and support the charity, Tommys. www.babylovesdisco.co.uk

Rockinghorse Circus Ball 20 November Hilton Metropole, Brighton

Get dressed up, get together with friends and party the night away, whilst raising money for this great local charity.

01273 730286 www.rockinghorse.org.uk

Woodcraft skills day Age 10+ 27 November Woodmills, Henfield

Develop a range of woodcraft skills.

01273 497561 www.sussexwt.org.uk

Author Miriam Moss 27 November 11am

The Book Nook, First Avenue, Hove Hear renowned local author Miriam read some of her wonderful stories.

01273 911988 www.booknookuk.com

Count down to Christmas 2 December 4-7pm Montague Street, Worthing

The Royal Pavilion Ice Rink 13 November - 16 January 10am - 10.15pm Royal Pavilion, Brighton

Ice Rink with pre-school crèche, rinkside restaurant and bar, and ‘penguin’ skate aids especially for youngsters.

0844 847 2352 www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Open evening at the Observatory Science Centre 13 November The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux

Look at the stars and the moon through some of the country’s largest telescopes.

01323 832731 www.the-observatory.org

Fungus Foray - Lewes watch 13 November Railway Land entrance, Railway Lane, Lewes

Come and look for Dead Mens’ Fingers and Shaggy Inkcaps.

01273 497561 www.sussexwt.org.uk

Tash Dash 5km fun run 20 November Hove Lawns

Hundreds of moustached men and women dash along the seafront to raise money for local charities. www.tashdash.com

Animal tracks and signs at Stanmer Park 20 November On the grass in front of the church, Stanmer Park

Be a badger and experience what it’s like to be nocturnal. Explore the woodland looking for footprints and wildlife signs.

Booking essential.

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Christmas special weekend

Make wreathes to decorate a tree in Friston Forest. Make winter lanterns, listen to a story and create your own Christmas decorations out of natural materials.

01273 497561 www.sussexwt.org.uk

Spectacular science shows and an opportunity to shop for stocking fillers.

01323 832731 www.the-observatory.org

Germinids meteor shower open evening

12 December Eastbourne seafront

4 December 2.30-4.30pm The Pump Barn, Seven Sisters Country Park

6 November, 5.30pm onwards St Peter’s Primary School, Fabian’s Way, Henfield

7 November and 5 December Stanmer Park, Brighton

A Winter’s Tale

11 December The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux

Enjoy the stars, planets and moon through some large telescopes.

01323 832731 www.the-observatory.org

Tree dressing 11 December Stanmer Park

Collect plant material to create a willow wreath and use clay to make a tea-light lamp to add sparkle to your Christmas.

01273 497561 www.sussexwt.org.uk

Brighton Santa Dash 11 December Hove Seafront

Watch lots of Santas running to raise money for Crisis. john@inmotionsport.com

The Book Nook, First Avenue, Hove For ages 9+. Book in advance.

01273 911988 www.booknookuk.com

Christmas Crafts 4 December 2pm

The Book Nook, First Avenue, Hove Come and make some Christmas cards and decorations.

01273 911988 www.booknookuk.com

Tree dressing at Woods Mill 4 December 11-1pm Woodmills, Henfield

Listen to a tale and sing some festive songs around the magical old oak tree.

01273 497561 www.sussexwt.org.uk

Tree dressing - Fun for all 4 December 2-4pm Woodmills, Henfield

Run especially for disabled children or young people and their siblings. Collect natural plant materials from the woodland to create a willow wreath tree decoration for your home and use clay to make a tea-light lamp to add sparkle to your Christmas.

01273 497561 www.sussexwt.org.uk

The Book Nook panto - Aladdin 16 December, 6.30pm

The Book Nook, First Avenue, Hove Charity donations on the door and late night shopping until 8pm.

01273 911988 www.booknookuk.com

Christmas Carol Singalong 17 December Brighton Dome

Clap your hands, stamp your feet and sing, sing, singalong in this festive jamboree of carols and Christmas hits.

01273 709709 www.brightondome.org

Winter Ceilidh

Baby Loves Disco

3 December 4-6.30pm Wilderness wood

4 December 10.30am

3 mile fun run raising money for charity. www.visiteastbourne.com

The best loved knees up is back with the Sussex Pistols. Under-8s chill-out room, kids’ cocktails and bar for grown ups.

01273 709709 www.brightondome.org

Christmas Tree Lighting Party

Book Nook Book Club

Santa Fun Run and Walk

19 December Corn Exchange, Brighton Dome

Christmas event with panto stars, fireworks and reindeer.

01903 203252

Revel in the beautifully decorated barn, enjoy carol singing and free mulled wine.

01825 830509 enquiries@wildernesswood.co.uk.

11-12 December The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux

19 December Komedia, Brighton

Great Xmas Pudding Race 11 December Bartholemew Square, Brighton

A challenge of dexterity and silliness whilst raising money for the Martlets Hospice and Cancer Research UK. www.xmaspuddingrace.org.uk

Family Bushcraft Day - Fun for all 11 December 12-4pm Woodmills, Henfield

Especially for disabled children or young people and their siblings. Enjoy a great day outdoors and learn some useful bushcraft skills in the local woodland.

01273 497561 www.sussexwt.org.uk

Wild about art: Christmas craft

11 December Arundel Wetlands Centre Make willow wands to grant wishes or willow stars to adorn you family tree.

01903 881530 www.wwt.org.uk

Karin Littlewood and crafts 11 December 2pm

The Book Nook, First Avenue, Hove Immi’ is a beautifully illustrated book about friendship and joy. Karin will be reading and signing the book and doing craft activities. Please book.

01273 911988 www.booknookuk.com

Shake your moves in the dance party for the under7s and their families. www.babylovesdisco.co.uk

Get your skates on at the Heart Winter Ice Rink 20 December - 6 January The Brighton Centre

Skating for the whole family.

0844 847 1515 www.brightoncentre.co.uk

Father Christmas needs a Wee 21 December, 11am

The Book Nook, First Avenue, Hove Author Nicholas Allan reads his stories.

Please book.

01273 911988 www.booknookuk.com

Burning the Clocks

21 December, 6.30pm Central Brighton - ending in Madiera Drive Join the Dark Carnival to put the long night to the torch and call out the new sun from its wintry bower! www.burningtheclocks.co.uk

Annual Christmas Walk 27 December

Fletcher’s Croft car park, opposite St. Andrews Church, Steyning Traditional family walk followed by mulled wine and mince pies. www.southdowns.gov.uk

The Mumpreneurs Networking Club Chat with mums in business.

November 5 and December 3: Lime Cafe, St Pauls Church, Worthing November 12 and December 3: David Lloyd Centre, Brighton Marina November 19 and December 10: The Woolpack Inn, West Street, Burgess Hill

November 4 and December 2: Crown and Anchor, Shoreham www.agoodgossip.co.uk

Martlets Hospice New Years Eve walk 31 December Plumpton College

An alternative way to celebrate New Year with a sponsored night time walk through the Sussex countryside. Walkers should be able to cover seven miles and stay up late - sorry this isn’t suitable for buggies.

You will be back in time to welcome in 2011 with a glass of bubbly. www.themartlets.org.uk

Galleries and museums

Anthony Veale Sculpture 9 October - 15 January

Worthing Museum and Art Gallery Quirky, thought-provoking and surrealist-inspired sculpture. museum@worthing.gov.uk

Capturing Colour: Film, Invention and Wonder 4 December - 20 March Brighton Museum and Art Gallery

Celebrates the quest for colour on film.

03000 290900 www.brighton-hove-museum.org.uk

Christmas crafts inspired

by Picturing Stories 18, 19, 20, 21 December Hove Museum

Make Christmas decorations, wrapping paper or a gift inspired by a painting.

03000 290902 www.brighton-hove-museum.org.uk

Where’s Santa?

Early years Age 2-5

Brighton and Hove Museums Sessions include art and stories.

01273 290900 www.brighton-hove-museum.org.uk

Curator’s Choice

31 July - 20 November Worthing Museum and Art Gallery Staff and volunteers select their favourite art works from the museum’s celebrated collection. museum@worthing.gov.uk

Santa at South Downs Nurseries Every Saturday and Sunday from 20 November until Christmas and 1 December 5.30-8.30pm

South Downs Nurseries, Brighton Road, Hassocks.

What’s on Families

Santa Special at Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway

18-19 December Lottbridge Road, Eastbourne www.emsr.co.uk

Father Christmas at the Book Nook 18 December

The Book Nook, First Avenue, Hove Book in advance.

01273 911988 www.booknookuk.com

Father Christmas at the Royal Pavilion 19-23 December Royal Pavilion, Brighton

Visit Father Christmas in the Royal Pavilion and enjoy a fantasy tour of the palace.

Book in advance. www.royalpavilion.org.uk

Yellowave Family Christmas Party

19 December 2-4.30pm NIVEA SUN Yellowave Beach Sports Venue, Brighton Pin the tail on the donkey and the nose on the reindeer, pass the parcel and get to meet Father Christmas.

01273 672222 www.yellowave.co.uk

What does Santa do after Christmas?

27 December - 2 January Drusillas Park

See Mr and Mrs Claus relaxing in their cottage after another busy Christmas.

01323 874100 www.drusillas.co.uk

For £2.50 each child will get a chance to talk to Santa and receive a present.

25 September – 21 November Towner Art Gallery, Eastbourne

From the beginning of December Spring Barn Farm Park, nr Lewes www.springbarnfarmpark.co.uk

The South Coast’s first ever exhibition of work by Robert Mapplethorpe. www.townereastbourne.org.uk

St Wilfrid’s Christmas Magic Weekend

Churchill Square Farmers Market

A Dark Day in Paradise Until 16 January Royal Pavilion, Brighton

1000s of black ceramic butterfiles installed by artist Clare Twomey.

03000 290900 www.brighton-hove-museum.org.uk

Santa in his stable at Spring Barn Farm Park

3-5 December Eastbourne town centre

An exciting programme of activities and events including santa and his reindeer. www.visiteastbourne.com

Explores the ways in which images can illustrate and inspire storytelling. An ideal way to introduce children to an exhibition.

03000 290900 www.brighton-hove-museum.org.uk

Strange and Familiar: three views of Brighton 2 October - 14 November

Brighton Museum and Art Gallery See Brighton & Hove through the lenses of three internationally acclaimed photographers Stephen Gill, Rinko Kawauchi and Alec Soth.

03000 290900 www.brighton-hove-museum.org.uk

November / December 2010

Visit Santa and his elves hard at work.

01323 874100 www.drusillas.co.uk

Santa in the Galleon grotto 4-19 December, Saturday and Sunday 11am – 4pm and daily 20-23 December Brighton Marina www.brightonmarina.co.uk

01273 675778 www.lovethatstuff.co.uk

Christmas art and craft fair 4 December Friends Meeting House, Ship Street, Brighton www.brightonquakers.co.uk

Christmas covered market Saturday and Sunday 4-19 December 11am – 4pm Brighton Marina www.brightonmanrina.co.uk

Love that stuff fairtrade market

11 December St Thomas’s Church Hall, Cliffe High Street, Lewes 01273 675778 www.lovethatstuff.co.uk

Christmas fairtrade market 18 December Friends Meeting House, Ship Street, Brighton www.brightonquakers.co.uk

Second Saturday every month 9am-1pm East Street, Shoreham-by-Sea

Worthing Farmers’ Market

27 November and 19 December South Street Square, Worthing 01903 203252

Cliffe Pedestrian Precinct, Lewes 01273 470900 www.commoncause.org.uk

Saturdays and Sundays 11am-4pm

Brighton Marina Square

Upper Gardner Street Market

4 December (weekends only) 11-23 December (daily) Drusillas Park

20 November Friends Meeting House, Ship Street, Brighton

Mermaid Market

www.brightonfarmmarket.co.uk

Santa’s Christmas Cottage

Love that stuff fairtrade market

Lewes Farmers’ Market

Every Saturday 9am-3pm And daily from 16-23 December North Road, Brighton

7 October 2010 - 1 March 2011 Hove Museum and Art Gallery

Over 100 stalls, offering a wide variety of quality gifts for all ages and all pockets. www.sussexpast.co.uk

Every Wednesday 10am-4pm

Brighton Farm Market

Picturing Stories

13 November Michelham Priory, nr Hailsham

Shoreham Farmers’ Market

Christmas fairs and farmers’ markets

Robert Mapplethorpe: photography with sculpture

Christmas craft and gift fair

Every Saturday 7am-5pm Upper Gardner Street, Brighton www.brightonfarmmarket.co.uk

Christmas at the Baby Boutique

November and December The Baby Boutique, Worthing A range of Christmas events including photography, handcrafted jewellery, casting of your baby’s hands and feet, hand made gifts, VIP and pamper evenings. Check website or call for dates.

01903 200991 www.babyboutiquesussex.com

First Saturday every month

Motcombe Village Farmers’ Market

Last Sat each month 10-1pm (but not in December) Community Wise, Ocklynge Road, Eastbourne 01323 722924

Southwick Country Market

Every Friday 9.15-11am Garden Room, Southwick Community Centre Homemade cakes, plants, fresh eggs, handmade crafts and gifts. figarosfancies@googlemail.com

To get your event listed in Families Sussex Coast magazine what’s on pages email: editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

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November / December 2010

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