Families Sussex Coast Jan Feb 2011 issue 15

FR

EE

The really useful local magazine for families with children

Our front cover is courtesy of photographer Mi Bewick

2

07968 715 469 info@mibewick.co.uk www.mibewick.co.uk

Welcome...

Welcome & Contents Families

It’s the new year and we’re going for a healthy, happy few months here at Families Sussex Coast – blow away the winter, cold and bugs and welcome energy and vitality… well here’s hoping! But we have got some great healthy eating tips to help get us started and an article on working options that could improve your work life balance too. There’s also a worrying feature on the risks of mobiles phones on children’s health - a must read for all parents.

Plus, we’re concentrating on babies and look at how to lessen toxins in your home and be greener. This all sounds very serious, and it is, but you will be informed and knowledge is definitely a healthy, happy thing for the new year!

Happy new year from all at Families Sussex Coast.

What’s inside

News and competitions 4-5 Perform, bird watching, and skiing with children Plus Win tickets to Brighton Modelworld 2011

Is your baby living in a toxic environment? 6-7 Classes for your baby

8

Working options

9

Health

10

The health risks of mobile phones

11

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.

Making a will

12

Copyright: Families Sussex Coast, January 2011.

Where I live

13

What’s on

14-15

Families Sussex Coast covers: Brighton, Hove, Eastbourne, Worthing, Lewes, Burgess Hill, Hassocks and everywhere in between.

Next issue March/April 2011 : Advertising and editorial deadline is 10 February. 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

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.

January / February 2011

Baby classes local to you

Ideas to improve your working life

BPA news, yoga, massage and healthy lunches

Security for your family

Hove actually...

Ballet, Martlet’s Spectacular, Love a slug

3

PERFORM in

Haywards Heath and Lewes

The essential gadget for skiing with children children to ski, the NipperGrip is a ski harness for children up to eight years old. It is unique

London based Perform

in that it has a handle on the front and the

started a class in

back so you can pick your child up whichever

January 2000 with

way they fall. The NipperGrip makes getting

just three children.

on and off chairlifts easy - no more panics or

They now have 3,500

having to stop the lift while you untangle your

children attending their

child on the floor. The NipperGrip also comes

dance, drama and

with detachable reins so you can control your

singing workshops and have chosen Haywards Heath and Lewes for

child’s direction and speed as they ski along The NipperGrip is a must for any family

in front of you. Its use is not limited to skiing,

going skiing with young children. Developed

it is also good for cycle training, roller or ice

Perform use a mix of drama, dance and singing

by Sussex husband and wife, James and

skating. Order online at

specially formulated to bring out every child’s

Katherine, over years of teaching their three

www.nippergrip.com.

new classes starting in January 2011.

true potential. Classes are kept small and they work exclusively with 4-8 year old children.

They don’t send children to auditions or castings, but focus on helping children develop

Soothe their skin

A new campaign has been launched across

their social skills whilst having the best fun of

the country by the National Eczema Society

the week.

to help the one in five children in the UK

Classes in Haywards Heath will be on Mondays at Clair Hall in Perrymount Road and classes in Lewes will be on Fridays at Western Road Community School. Perform also run classes in Brighton and Hove and Horsham. All children are invited to a free trial session. Please call 0845 400 1281 or visit www.perform.org.uk.

to your door

Bonjour Breakfast is the

who suffer from eczema. Soak and Smooth

first and only Brighton

is aimed at the 39% of mums who admit

based company

that they do their best to control their child’s

to bring the finest

eczema but wish they could do better. The

breakfast produce

campaign deals primarily with emollients and how to use them. To find out more visit www.eczema.org/emollients___how_to_ apply_them.html

directly to your door.

Whether you have guests, wish to celebrate or relax with the family, their eco-friendly breakfast boxes will hit the spot. From

Calling all young poets

superb pastries and tartlets, to porridge,

Could you write a prize-winning poem? Would

to midnight on the 21st March 2011 and the

room service, delivered to your house – no

you like to be published online, for free? Then

winners will be announced at the Guardian Hay

fuss, you don’t even need to get dressed!

the Firebird Children’s Prize for Poetry is for

Festival 2011. “Poetry was my first literary love,”

you. As the world’s newest poetry prize for a

says Louis de Bernières, author of Captain

single poem, the Firebird Prize invites all poets

Corelli’s Mandolin and a member of the judging

under the age of eighteen to submit works for

panel. “My father used to recite it at the dinner

the competition, to have your work posted

table and I was made to memorise a poem a

on the Firebird Poetry website. All poems that

week at school. There is no better way of saying

are posted will automatically be entered into

things that have to be said.” So get scribbling!

the competition. Submissions are invited prior

Visit www.firebirdpoetry.com for more information.

4

Breakfast

magazines and chocolate making kits.

Think of Bonjour Breakfast as posh hotel

They supply local produce wherever possible. Stockists include Cocoa, an award winning French Patisserie, Payne’s Sussex honey, Chocoholly organic handmade chocolates and award-winning EllesBelles sausages. To review the complete menu visit www.bonjourbreakfast.com.

Watch those birds Yes, it’s that time of year again

News & competitions Families

WIN tickets to

Brighton Modelworld 2011

- it’s the Big Garden Birdwatch, and the RSPB are once again inviting us to get involved. This year the survey takes place over the weekend of 29th and 30th January 2011, when hundreds of thousands of people can be found with pen

Modelworld 2011 arrives at the Brighton Centre from

and paper in hand, checking out the birds

18-20 February with radio controlled cars, trucks,

visiting their gardens. Why not take the time

boats, tanks, Airfix, Hornby model railways, Midair

to record all of the birds that visit your garden

models and lego displays. It’s a great day out for

that weekend and join in the world’s biggest

kids and adults alike with superb railway and model

wildlife survey, while having fun with your family

engineering displays. It is a must for every modelling

without leaving the comfort of your own home.

enthusiast! We have a family ticket for you to win

You could even help smash the RSPB’s record

to go to Modelworld 2011. To enter simply, answer

of half a million participants - after all, the more

this: What is the name of Britain’s leading model

results they receive, the clearer the picture they’ll

railway manufacturer beginning with ‘H’? Send

get of what’s happening to our garden birds in

your answer with your name, address and phone

the UK. To find out more visit

number to editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk or

www.rspb.org.uk.

Families Sussex Coast, PO Box 5189, Brighton BN50

The True Diary

of a Mum to be

Local author Charlie Plunkett has only done two things in her life she considers truly grown up. The first was to get married and the second was to

9WN by 28th January.

To book tickets for Brighton Modelworld 2011 call 01273 292695 or visit www.brightoncentre.co.uk. *Terms and conditions: Family ticket can contain a mixture of children and adult tickets. Tickets are valid from 18-20 February. No purchase necessary. Tickets are non-exchangeable.

pregnancy, recounting tales

Mini mile races for marathon day

of a burst birth ball and

Registration for the Grand Hotel Mini Mile races

numerous D.I.Y. disasters

for 8-17 year olds opens on 10th January 2011,

along the way.

Brighton Marathon day.

Charlie’s book also includes

Building on the success of the 2010 races, when

a list of useful suppliers and

more than 450 youngsters took part in the first ever

is available at Waterstones,

event, the organisers will be introducing more races

Amazon, WHSmiths and

with the aim of increasing the number of participants

locally in City Books,

to 2,000 to make it one of the largest UK races for

the Book Nook and

under 18s. For further information please visit

Mamissima.

www.brightonmarathon.co.uk/minimile

start a family. Charlie’s diary, The True Diary of a Mum to be, is an honest and funny account of her

January/February 2011

SAY YOU SAW IT IN

5

Is your baby living

in a toxic environment?

by Joanna Parry

Many of us try to be as green as we can when it comes to our babies. We dress them in organic cotton babygrows and some of us even use real nappies. But how green really are we? ingredients such as milk casein, clay, bee’s wax, and natural mineral dyes.

If you prefer wallpaper you can buy recycled or wood chip paper which is ‘breathable’ and doesn’t have a negative impact on air quality. Lead paint is an age old problem, and some older houses may still have lead paint on the walls or window sills. If you are concerned about this get the professionals in, as stripping lead paint can release toxins.

Curtains: Use natural materials such as wool, cotton, linen or silk. Wash and air the curtains before hanging them up as even natural fibres are treated with substances to make them moth resistant.

Recently there has been a spate of publicity about the potentially harmful

Electrical: Remove Wi-Fi, cordless phones, mobiles and wireless

toxins in baby toys, nursery furniture and cot mattresses, so how possible

baby monitors from the baby’s room. Children are more susceptible to

is it to reduce these toxins and truly ‘green’ your baby’s nursery?

electromagnetic waves which can be very harmful to development, even

Raising an eco-friendly baby is not only safer for baby but also reduces

leading to long-term illnesses and damage to the immune system.

the impact on the environment. Most of us already recycle, we try to

Open the window and let the fresh air in. Also, reduce unwanted

reduce our carbon impact and are aware of wasteful packaging. We

chemicals and pathogens by bringing plants into your nursery. Particularly

buy fair trade baby products wherever available and we choose organic,

effective plants that remove toxic chemicals from the air are areca palm,

locally grown vegetables to reduce our baby’s exposure to toxins like

lady palm, rubber plant, snake plant, spider plant and weeping fig.

mercury, lead, pesticides and arsenic. And, whenever possible, we do our part to reduce air pollution and leave the car at home.

Don’t forget to think green about what you put inside your nursery, too.

But is this enough? “I already buy organic clothing,” says Alison. “I breast

Even cots can be green. Solid wood treated with non-toxic varnish, oil

feed and use real nappies. What more can I do?” The answer is, a lot more.

or wax is best. Avoid chipboard wood (made using formaldehyde) or a

The eco nursery

plastic coating as they may contain harmful softeners.

Newborns can spend as much as 80% of the first part of their lives in their

Mattress: Choose a mattress made from natural materials. Many

nursery, so it is important to make it as green and nontoxic as possible.

conventional mattresses use PVC as the mattress cover and foam treated

In short, to create an eco nursery. The Nesting Project is a recent testing

with potentially toxic flame retardants as filling material. A better option is

campaign that invited parents who had just decorated their babies’ rooms

a mattress made from natural coir (coconut husk), hemp, organic cotton,

to put samplers in the nursery before sending them off for analysis. The

natural rubber latex or organic wool, which is naturally fire resistant.

results were surprising, even frightening: the lab picked up a number of pollutants including formaldehyde and other VOCs (substances emitted from everyday products and materials, including household chemicals, solvents, varnishes and paints) arising from newly laid flooring or carpet,

Cot linen: It’s not just baby’s clothing that can be organic. Cot sheets, sleeping bags, blankets and towels are now available in 100% organic cotton. Don’t forget to wash all new linens before use.

soft furnishings, clothing, bedding, textiles and toys. It went on to explain

Toys: Baby toys made from PVC plastic may contain phthalates, the

the harmful effects of VOCs, of which symptoms can include eye, nose,

suspected hormone-disruptors that have been linked to liver and kidney

throat and skin irritation and allergic reactions, nausea, headaches,

damage. Choose toys made of natural, non-toxic materials such as FSC

dizziness and respiratory problems.

wood, hemp and cotton, and check the manufacturer has used non-toxic

Knowing the exact extent to which the air in your newborn’s nursery is polluted may be more information than you want, or need, to know.

dyes and natural oil finishes.

Helpful websites

Suppliers

particularly if you’re still at the renovation stage, and while some methods

www.nrdc.org

Flooring: www.healthyflooring.org

require more effort and cash, others are cheap and easy.

www.simplesteps.org

Walls: www.earthbornpaints.co.uk

www.theecologist.org

www.MyLittleEco.co.uk/ecopaint

Floor: As a general rule a hard floor is best, although bamboo and cork

www.projectnesting.org/start

Furniture: www.thegreenfamilia.co.uk

are also eco-friendly options. If you do want carpet, choose one made

www.naturalnurseryblog.co.uk

www.kiddisave.co.uk

But there is no need to panic. There are many ways to detox a nursery,

with natural fibres such as organic wool or cotton and check that it has

Mattresses: www.abacaorganic.co.uk

not been treated with unnecessary chemicals or glues.

www.greenbaby.com

Walls: Choose low- or no-VOC paint and natural pigments made from

6

Eco-nursery products: www.hellobabydirect.co.uk

Baby feature Families

January/February 2011

7

Classes for baby and you There’s plenty of choice when it comes to classes to keep you and your baby entertained and connected to the outside world.

Swimming Aquakiddies/babies Brighton and the surrounding areas The original and best baby and toddler swimming company.

01273 833101 www.aquababies-uk.com Brighton Swimming School Brighton Swimming lessons for children aged 12 months to 18 years old. 01273 425745 www.brightonswimmingschool.com Flipper and Fins Brighton, Hurstpierpoint, Clayton, Crawley and Handcross Swimming classes from birth to adults.

01273 831382 www.flippersandfins.org Little Dippers Brighton, Eastbourne, Isfield and Loxwood Lessons for babies in warm water pools.

0844 4820222 www.littledippers.co.uk

MXT Swim School Brighton, Hove, Steyning, Shoreham, Lancing, Storrington, Littlehampton, Worthing, Horsham Swim classes from 4 months to adults.

01903 532765 www.mxtswimschool.com Swimability Peacehaven Peacehaven Swimming lessons for ages 5 weeks to adults. 01273 583760 www.swimability.co.uk

Mr Peter’s Swimming School Eastbourne Specialised baby and toddler classes at affordable prices. Serious discounts for siblings and frequent swimmers. 07869 323107 www.mr-peters.com The Little Swim School Brighton, Hove and Isfield Teaching preschool children water safety and swimming in warm private pools in Brighton, Hove and Isfield. 01273 207992 www.thelittleswimschool.co.uk

Music and drama Baby Boogie Brighton and Hove libraries A chance for mums, dads, and carers to get together with babies, music and rhyme. www.citylibraries.info

Caterpillar Music Sussex Fun with puppets and dance, instruments and parachute play. Friendly group in Worthing. Parties also available. 01903 230810 www.caterpillarmusic.com

Debutots Brighton, Hove, Lewes, Newhaven, Shoreham and Steyning Drama for ages 6 months to 7 years using stories and play. 01273 234673 www.debutots.co.uk

Incy Wincy Music Patcham, Brighton For 0-4 year olds including puppets, instruments, songs and tea and toys after.

01273 277688 www.incywincymusic.co.uk

Knees and Toes Music Club Lewes Road, Brighton Nursery songs with instruments and actions. Every Monday. 07814 698413 Little Pickle Music Makers Hove Music classes from 4 months to 4 years with songs, instruments, animals and bubbles.

01273 273675 littlepickle@ntlworld.com

Mini Music Holy Cross Church Hall, Hove

Little Monkey Signers Brighton and Hove Signing, music, puppets, props and fun for little monkeys aged 6 months+. Taught

by Qualified Teacher with Stage 3 BSL. New course starting Jan 13th- Book now!

01273 727088 info@littlemonkeysigners.co.uk

Sing and Sign Brighton and Hove Popular music classes from 6 months to 2 years encouraging communication in babies.

Relaxed and fun, recommended by experts.

01273 540266 brighton@singandsign.co.uk

Movement Bee-Fit Worthing Fun fitness including parachute play, games, singing and fun from 6 months to 4 years. 01903 241740 www.bee-fit.co.uk

Fun with music, puppets, pictures, scarves, instruments, parachute, games and more.

01273 327509 www.minimusic.info

Gymboree Brighton Classes from newborn to 5 years. Parent and child interaction. Voted best national preschool and development activity 2009.

Music for Aardvarks and other mammals

01273 772900 brighton@gymboree-uk.com

Brighton and Hove An innovative music group with original music influenced by rock, indie and blues.

07886 927081 www.uk-aardvarks.co.uk

From the Seed Fiveways, Brighton Holistic care from conception to baby.

Aromatherapy, workshops and baby massage. 01273 542358 www.fromtheseed.co.uk.

Talking Tots Brighton, Hove and Lewes Fun, interactive classes that help your child communicate with confidence.

07827 697523 www.talkingtots.info

Signing and language Baby Signers Brighton, Hove, Worthing, Lewes From 6 months - fun and engaging classes.

01273 882203 www.babysigners.co.uk Buenos Dias Brighton and Hove Fun Spanish classes for babies aged 6 months to 5 years. 01273 323431 www.buenosdias.co.uk

For clubs, classes and activities for all ages near you visit www.familiessussexcoast.co.uk

8

La Casita Brighton and Hove Spanish-English childcare for babies aged 4 months to 5 years. 01273 323431 www.buenosdias.co.uk/lacasita.html

Tatty Bumpkin and Baby Bumpkin Brighton Yoga inspired movement and music class from 6 weeks to 7 years.

08456 808041 www.brighton.tattybumpkin.co.uk Parent and Child Yoga and Tai Chi with Homeopathy talk Lewes Road, Brighton Toddlers can enjoy time in a dedicated play area, then join in Tai Chi or yoga. Plus enjoy a hot drink and snack during the Homeopathy session.

01273 778400

Your working life Families

Balancing your working life

Balancing family and work is one of the big issues facing parents today and finding a solution can be tricky. We’ve looked at the options and asked some Sussex businesses in the know to help you get the best out of your working life.

Buying a franchise uk has lots of useful information on how to request a flexible working Starting you own business can be

arrangement and how to make it work in practice. Do bear in mind that it

overwhelming. That’s why more

is the right to ‘request’ and not the right to ‘receive’. You should also bear

people, especially women, are

in mind that it’s not easy to work from home with a toddler or baby in tow

turning to franchises to run their

and some employers won’t allow this, but, providing your childcare is near

own business. Recent figures from

your home, you’ll be saving time on commuting and you can sneak in a

the British Franchise Association

laundry load during a ‘tea break’.

revealed that more than 1/3 of new franchisees in 2009 were women,

Jobs at home

that’s an increase of 10% in 5 years.

There is a wealth of opportunities if you are considering working at home.

If you are a whizz around the office, enjoy administration, copy typing or

Investing in a franchise can offer a level of security with many offering a

proofreading then you could become a freelance virtual assistant (VA).

robust business model with a proven track record. You should, of course,

Companies and local businesses are now outsourcing their work to VAs

do your homework and check that the franchise will deliver what it says

to help save money by cutting costs in the workplace.

it will. One of the largest growth areas is children’s franchises - from More opportunities to consider include leaflet distribution, home tutoring,

birthday parties to tutoring, there is something to suit everyone.

mystery shopping, childminding, telemarketing and direct selling. Direct

Starting a new business

selling is a huge growth area of self employment. Jamie at home, Ann

The Office of National Statistics has released figures that show there are

summers, Phoenix Trading and Barefoot Books are all growing in huge

now more than one million women-owned businesses. Being a parent

popularity. For a small investment, usually up to around £100 you could

and running your own business has its challenges as well as its rewards

be on your way to starting an exciting new business. Karyn Slyfield who

but could lead to a better work life balance as well as earning a living from

runs the website www.workingjobsfromhome.co.uk says ‘Mums become

something you are passionate about. The key to running your business

attracted to direct selling for its flexibility. You can work around your own

is long term planning and the ability to manage your expectations. For

commitments, sell to friends and family. Host a party or build a team to

example, if you have your toddler in childcare for 15 hours a week, world

increase your sales and profits even further’.

domination may be some years away! Nicky Chisholm from Mums in Biz says ‘running your own business as a Mum is hard work but it can also

Further information

be hugely rewarding. It may ultimately allow you to spend more time with

www.workingjobsfromhome.co.uk

your family and develop a viable work life balance!’ Nicky advises that

Sussex based website with a lots of opportunities to work from home.

when you take the plunge it’s worth using support networks in Sussex,

www.mumsinbiz.co.uk

such as The Mumpreneurs Networking Club. Not only will you be inspired

Support for mums running their own businesses in Sussex and Surrey.

by like-minded mums but you’ll find a great resource of business support too.

Workingmums.co.uk LIVE

Flexible working in your current job

March 8 2011, Business Design Centre, Islington, London. Meet employers, get advice on working for yourself, cv tips, interview

Did you know if you have children under 17 years old that you have a

techniques and much more!

legal right to request flexible working from your employer? If you have

www.franchisedirect.com

a job where you can work flexibly, you may well find you can work from

www.familiesonline.co.uk

home, work compressed hours, flexitime, during school hours or during

www.sussexenterprise.co.uk

term time only. The working families website, www.workingfamilies.org.

www.workingfamilies.org.uk

Great franchise for sale in Brighton and Lewes area due to relocation of owner.

For more information contact Hannah

SAY YOU SAW IT IN

07917 698444 January/February 2011

9

Health for you and your little ones Ban on BPA Massage and aromatherapy in baby bottles Studies have shown that BPA, commonly found inside baby bottles, can cause developmental and neurological problems in babies and young children and affect reproductive, neurological and immune systems. A new EU ruling is proposed to come

for mother and baby

From the seed offers ante-natal massage and

Other benefits of baby

workshops to learn the safe and effective use

massage include:

of essential oils for pregnancy, labour and post

n Strengthening the bond between parent and child

natal care. Jo Kellet, founded From the Seed

n Relief for colic and constipation

from a desire is to offer bespoke holistic care

n Promotes good restful sleep

to parents from conception to baby, using

n Meets baby’s need for tactile stimulation.

aromatherapy and massage. Jo says ‘Having used aromatherapy and massage throughout both of my pregnancies I wanted to let other

Jo Kellett has been a certified Infant Massage Instructor since 1999. She also

mothers realise the benefits’.

teaches Essential Oils for Pregnancy on

BPA. BornFree® have created

Jo also runs baby massage courses where

Massage for the Institute of Traditional Herbal

a range of bottles free from

you can learn a full body massage for your

Medicine and Aromatherapy. Classes and

the chemical. BornFree® is available online at

baby with techniques for colic, teething and

treatments are in Fiveways, Brighton Contact

www.babybornfree.co.uk and from selected

relaxation.

jo@fromtheseed.co.uk 01273 542348.

into effect next year banning

The Neal’s Yard Aromatherapy Diploma and

Boots, Mothercare and Jo Jo Maman Bebe.

Healthy lunch box tips Healthy lunch box tips and inspiration to help keep the kids healthy through to Spring.

★ Kids love growing:

Yoga and meditation

for little ones

Cress, lettuce and pea shoots

Practising yoga and meditation with our little

★ Include a balance of the three food

can be grown in a window box

ones is a wonderful experience, and a way to

groups. Protein for the building blocks for the

any time. If kids have been involved in the

open them to a world of peace and relaxation

body, “good” carbohydrate for energy and

growing, they tend to be keener to eat it!

essential in today’s busy world. Toddlers begin

digestive health and “good” fats (omega 3 and

★ Keep hydrated. The brain and body can’t

to imitate our movements, until one day they

function without adequate water. Avoid sugary

will be old enough to join their own children’s

★ Try wholemeal bread sandwich with

drinks and offer watered down fruit juice, if they

class.

tuna, sweetcorn and coleslaw filling.

need to be weaned off these, gradually reducing

Wholemeal bread provides sustainable energy, sweetcorn and coleslaw providing vitamins,

the fruit juice content.

Tips were provided by Brighton-based nutritionist, Shirley Ward at Down to Earth Nutrition.

minerals and fibre. Wholemeal bread will also fill

07590 527665 Shirley@downtoearthnutrition.co.uk.

kids up for longer, so less need for snacks.

★ Reader discount ★ Families readers will

The Unity studio also offers a singing group

★

receive a £15 discount for consultations booked

for parent and child, in addition to other yoga

before the end of January 2011.

classes, yoga teacher training, massage

6) for optimum brain development.

tuna provides protein and “good fats”, with

Colourful easy-to-eat fruits are great as

children are attracted by vibrant colours so try blueberries, tangerine segments, small apples or strips of crunchy pepper and carrots.

At Unity studio the yoga preludes a break with a homeopathy talk, and a Tai Chi class during which the babies can sleep in a sling or continue to play.

training, reiki courses and holistic treatments.

To find out more visit www.being-in-unity. com or call 01273 778400.

SAY YOU SAW IT IN 10

Health Families

The risks to children’s health

from mobile phones

by Patty Hemingway

Have you heard that mobile phones carry health risks, and that children are at an even greater risk than adults?

Dr Devra Davis, environmental and public

The Bioinitiative Report in 2007 was the work of a group of eminent,

health specialist, research scientist and

international scientists, who examined existing research into the health

grandmother, could not believe this, but what

effects of electromagnetic radiation, and especially its impact on the

she found out alarmed her so much that she

immune system, behaviour, childhood cancers, breast cancer, and brain

wrote a book, Disconnect: The Truth About

tumours. This epic work concluded that the safety standards for exposure

Cell Phone radiation, What the Industry Has

need to be revised downwards.

Done to Hide It, and How to Protect Your family, 2010. She writes that, “Contrary to the firmly held beliefs of many respected authorities, invisible radio frequency radiation can alter living cells and create the same types of damage that we know increase the risk of cancer and neurological disease. Neither the danger nor the safety of cell phones is yet certain. How we manage that uncertainty could avert a global public health catastrophe... children are growing up in a sea of radio frequency radiation that did not exist even five years ago.”

My own concerns about cell phone radiation and other forms of digital pulsed microwave radiation had been aroused a few years ago when I began seeing, an increasing number of children showing symptoms after exposure to mobile phones, mast radiation or wireless radiation.

These included hyperactive behaviour which reverted to normal when the children were away from the irradiated environment, skin rashes and eczemas that did not improve with treatment, night terrors and mood swings, lowered immunity in previously healthy children, and sudden nose-bleeds.

A major concern about mobile phones has always been that radiation can penetrate deep into a child’s skull because it is so much thinner and smaller than an adult’s. Standards for phones are set for a large, thick-skulled, man, although half of the world’s four billion cell phones are used by people under twenty. The SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) printed on the box relates simply to the phone’s capacity to heat tissue, as manufacturers and standard setters initially refused to believe that

Dr Ronald Herberman, director of the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute was being cautious when in 2008 he drafted a memo to staff, warning of the dangers of mobile phones, and urging them to limit their use because of the risk of cancer. Top of his list of precautions is that children should use mobiles only for emergencies, in recognition of the fact that their growing brain tissue is likely to be more sensitive to the electromagnetic radiation from mobile phones.

Alasdair Philips from Powerwatch, an independent group that investigates the safety of mobile phones, revealed that safety advice was generally to be found only in the small print. Manuals for the Blackberry (The Torch), for example, warn users to “use hands-free operation if available and keep the device at least 25mm from your body (including the abdomen of pregnant women and the lower abdomen of teenagers)” when it is switched on.

Dr Davis’s advice is, never carry a live mobile phone next to your body, and always use a headset. You can see her video for teenagers on her website, www.environmentalhealthtrust.org, or check out the guidance from a group of concerned parents, who have looked closely at the science, www.wiredchild.org, which includes: n Keeping calls short or sending texts n Replacing wireless equipment with non-wireless n Changing to a low-radiation or analogue baby monitor n Turning all wireless equipment off at night, in the car, and when near

pregnant women, or children.

there could be any other detrimental effect from radio frequency radiation.

Patty Hemingway (RMANM) is a family homeopath, with a special interest

This is strange as our bodies run on electrical currents, which are easily

in electromagnetic radiation sickness www.pattyhemingway.com.

disrupted by pulsed frequencies, as has been demonstrated in a study by Dr Magda Havas and colleagues, showing heart arrhythmias triggered by

Useful Websites

DECT (cordless) phones.

www.familiesonline.co.uk/radiation - for a longer version of this

In the digital age this poses new health risks depending on a person’s

www.environmentalhealthtrust.org - how to use phones safely.

susceptibility, the density and intensity of the radiation, and the length

www.wiredchild.org - news and science for children and

of time they are exposed to it. Children are certainly more susceptible

their parents.

because they are still growing, and their neural circuitry will not be

www.bioinitiative.org – for Bioinitiative Report.

fully formed until they reach their early twenties. Until then, they

www.powerwatch.org.uk - the latest research, clearly explained

need protection from anything that could interfere with their brain’s

www.es-uk.info – support to people with symptoms of electrosensitivity.

development.

article and more information.

Books

In France, this research has led to the decision to ban children in

Radiation Rescue: 4 steps to safeguard your family from the other

primary school from using mobile phones, and discouraging mobile

inconvenient truth – the health hazards of wireless technology. Kerry

phone advertising aimed at children. They are also removing wireless

Crofton, 2009

communication systems from public places such as libraries, and

Disconnect: The Truth about Cell Phone Radiation, What the Industry Has

hospitals, after workers complained of feeling ill at work.

Done to Hide it, and How to Protect Your Family. Dr Devra Davis, 2010

January/February 2011

11

Making a will ‘With all that’s involved in preparing for a new arrival into the family, I am sure that, for most people, signing a will is not exactly high up the list’, says Richard Bates, partner of Bunkers Solicitors in Hove. ‘However, it is one of the most important things that you can do to provide security for your partner and children’.

Many people simply assume that, if they die, their estate will pass to their partner, who can then ensure that any children are looked after. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. For instance, unmarried partners do not have an automatic right to an estate where there’s no will. Indeed, even spouses or civil partners may have to share an estate with their children, which can cause practical problems for both the children and their surviving parent.

You also need to consider who will look after your children’s emotional and financial needs in the event that they are left without a parent. Guardians can be appointed under a will, allowing the parents a degree of control as to who will have parental responsibility when they are no longer there. This must be a very careful choice and should, ideally, be discussed with the proposed guardians before the will is signed. Careful consideration should also be made with regard to who will control of the children’s finances until they are old enough to take care of themselves.

Raising a child is one of the greatest responsibilities a person can have. So, whilst you are dealing with the practicalities of names, decorating the nursery or the school run, bear in mind that your responsibility does not end with death. Securing your children’s future means that the very straightforward process of making a will should be ticked off on the ‘to do’ list.

Speak to Richard Bates on 01273 329797 or email: richard. bates@bunkers.co.uk. Families magazine readers receive a 10% discount on making a will until 31st March 2011.

12

Where I live Families

Where I live...

Hove (actually) Every issue of Families magazine we ask you about where you live – what’s it like, your favourite place to go and things to do both here and further afield…

Mi lives in Hove (actually) with her

Favourite children’s party venue/entertainer

five year old son. She runs her

The Scented garden in St Ann´s Well Gardens We always end up there…

own photography business and

Kids can run around and we can pick up things from home when we´ve

specialises in family portraits, children

forgotten something!

and babies.

What was your best day out last year

How long have you lived in Hove?

We went rock climbing with another family at Harrison´s Rock near

About a year and a half.

incredibly exciting to climb. They have less fear than us adults!

Favourite café

Favourite place for mums and dads to chill

We love the Band Stand because

The beach…! Add a bottle of wine… (Oops - not supposed to say that!)

it´s right on the beach, overlooking the sea.

Favourite park

Tunbridge Wells – it was a fab day out and the kids thought it was

The worse thing about your area There’s not enough cosy cafés. You can never have enough good cafés…

St Anne´s Well Gardens – it has everything you need in a park.

Favourite UK holiday destination

Favourite restaurant

is great all year round! But I still have much exploring to do around the

Murasaki Sushi in Seven Dials – the food is delicious.

country and I really look forward to it.

Favourite shop

And your dream holiday…

Castor and Pollox on the seafront – it´s a mixture of shop and gallery and

Diving at the Maldives.... I´m sure I will do this with my son one day - he´s

it’s a beautiful place to go and browse. They have loads of lovely ideas for

doing 18 seconds free dive in the bathtub already!

presents, both for adults and children.

I consider myself living at the best holiday destination of the UK! Brighton

Any other recommendations?

Favourite club or class

I think we need to appreciate the small things in life a bit more. Revert

Yoga with Marc Woolford at the Natural Health Centre

back. A day at your local beach with homemade cake can be just as

Favourite outing (in this area)

good as a massive event that costs a fortune. I would never take my child to Disney land.

The Beach!

Contact Mi for family photography: 07968 715469

Favourite big day out (any area)

info@mibewick.co.uk www.mibewick.co.uk

Devil´s Dyke – the walks, the views, the fresh air – it´s soothing for the soul and the kids run free.

January/February 2011

13

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.

Anton and Erin

Theatre

28 February Concert Hall, Brighton Dome Anton Du Beke and Erin Boag return with a fabulous new show “Puttin’ on the ritz”.

01273 709709 www.brightondome.org

Cinderella

10 December - 16 January Devonshire Park Theatre, Eastbourne

Moscow City Ballet Swan Lake and The Sleeping Beauty

Cinderella

The enchanting and romantic story of The Sleeping Beauty and love story of Swan Lake are brought to you by the Moscow City Ballet.

08448 717 650 www.ambassadortickets.com/brighton

A breathtaking production of the classic tale of Cinderella with special effects and lavish sets.

08448 717 650 www.ambassadortickets.com/brighton

Sleeping Beauty

28-29 January Congress Theatre, Eastbourne

With its revolutionary three-dimensional setting, you will be whisked into the great universe where planets spin around you in glorious colours and spectrums of light. On the ice, the skating elite perform breathtaking feats that will have you on the edge of your seat!

0844 847 1515 www.brightoncentre.co.uk

Pride and Prejudice

13-15 January Connaught Theatre, Worthing Meet Elizabeth Bennet, her sisters and Mr Darcy.

01903 206206 www.worthingtheatres.co.uk

Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra

16 January, 2.45pm Concert Hall, Brighton Dome Listen to works by Tchaikovsky and Delius.

01273 709709 www.brightondome.org

George’s Marvellous Medicine 25-29 January Connaught Theatre, Worthing

If you’re looking for fizztickling fun and whizzpopping magic for all the family, then don’t miss George and his marvellous medicine!

01903 206206 www.worthingtheatres.co.uk

The Nutcracker

26-27 January Congress Theatre, Eastbourne The tale of Clara and her Nutcracker doll is set to a Tchaikovsky’s lavish score. Performed the St Petersburg Ballet Theatre.

01323 412000 www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk

14

´

´

World Wetlands Day Get out into nature and it’s free before noon. 2 February

´

Storytime Every week

Hove Library Fridays at 10.15am 01273 290700 Jubilee Library Wednesdays 10.15am 01273 296960

Ailey 2

1-2 March Concert Hall, Brighton Dome Ailey 2 draws together America’s best young dance talent, translating their strength, agility, grace and soul into stirring and powerful performances.

01273 709709 www.brightondome.org

Tots That Rock

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

Cinema

Wellness Wednesday

30 January, 2.45pm Concert Hall, Brighton Dome

Big Scream!

Mysticism, kings and kingsmanship underpin this all-English programme with the Brighton Festival Chorus.

01273 709709 www.brightondome.org

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.

Keep those New Year resolutions with a bracing winter stroll around the marked walking routes.

01903 883355 www.wwt.org.uk

Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra 11-30 January The Brighton Centre

Showing the best of Brighton’s theatre talent and for a great cause. 19 February

Love a slug We just love the name for the Sussex Wildlife Trust event! 22 February

26-29 January Theatre Royal Brighton

St Petersburg Ballet Theatre, with live orchestra, present this stunning ballet.

01323 412000 www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk

Holiday on Ice 2011 Energia

´Martlet’s Musical Spectacular ´

´

Do the ugly sisters use polyfilla in their make-up routine? Find out in this traditional family pantomime.

01323 412000 www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk

Until 16 January Theatre Royal Brighton

favourites

Our top picks for January and February

Danish Dance Theatre

4-5 February Corn Exchange, Brighton Dome Combining the classical lines of ballet with the power of modern dance, this triple bill showcases the company’s diverse range and artistic director Tim Rushton’s distinct movement vocabulary.

01273 709709 www.brightondome.org

Hairspray

15-26 February Congress Theatre, Eastbourne The story of Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart as she sets out to follow her extraordinary dreams, inspire her mum and win the boy she loves.

01323 412000 www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk

Martlets Musical Spectacular

19 February Corn Exchange, Brighton Dome The Martlets Musical Spectacular is now in its 5th year and features songs and from Broadway, West End and Hollywood greats.

01273 709709 www.brightondome.org

Duke of York Cinema, Brighton

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

5, 12, 19 and 26 January Arundel Wetlands Centre

Guy Parker Rees at the Book Nook 15 January

Duke of York cinema, Brighton

The Book Nook, First Avenue, Hove Author Guy Parker Rees visits the Book Nook.

01273 911988 www.booknookuk.com

Starts 10.30am with drawing and a competition with a film at 11am.

The Royal Pavilion Ice Rink

Saturday morning Kids’ Club

Check website for films.

0871 704 2056 www.picturehouses.co.uk

Until 16 January 10am - 10.15pm Royal Pavilion, Brighton

Saturday morning pictures

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

0844 847 2352 www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Connaught 2 Screen, Worthing Every Saturday at 10.15am 8 January: Tinkerbell and the Great Fairy Rescue Check website for films.

01903 206206 www.worthingtheatres.co.uk

Activities and events Story time and singing

Open evening

15 January, 12 and 19 February The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux Enjoy the stars, planets and moon through some large telescopes.

01323 832731 www.the-observatory.org

Walk - everybody welcome 15 January Pyecombe

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

The three mile morning walk is around Newtimber whilst the three mile afternoon walk is near the Jack and Jill windmills.

01252 514163 www.sussexwt.org.uk

The Wind in the Willows

Sing out!

Earthship Tours

Bringing the delights of this literary classic to another generation and a touch of showbiz to the riverbank!

01903 206206 www.worthingtheatres.co.uk

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

21-26 February Pavilion Theatre, Worthing

Every week day at 4pm and singing Friday at 10.30am

Every Monday 7pm

16 January and 20 February Stanmer Park, Brighton Experience the eco-build and be inspired to respond to climate change. www.lowcarbon.co.uk

Woodcraft Skills Day Age 10+ 22 January Woods Mill, Henfield

Develop a range of woodcraft skills.

01273 497561 www.sussexwt.org.uk

World Wetlands Day 2 February Arundel Wetlands Centre

Bird Boxes for Spring

19 February: Stanmer Park 20 February: Woods Mill, Henfield Build and decorate a bird box and make pine cone feeders for your garden.

Discover more about woodland birds.

01273 497561 www.sussexwt.org.uk

Learn about WWT conservation projects. Free admission before noon.

01903 883355 www.wwt.org.uk

12 February Stanmer House, Brighton

Baby Loves Disco 13 February Komedia, Brighton

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

World Book Day 3 March

The Book Nook, First Avenue, Hove Man on the Moon author Simon Bartram visits the Book Nook.

01273 911988 www.booknookuk.com

February half term Modelworld 2011 18-20 February The Brighton Centre

Radio controlled cars, trucks, boats and tanks to inspire along with model workshops and Lego building.

0844 8471515 www.brightoncentre.co.uk

Brighton Science Festival 19 February - Brighton Sparks Hove Park Upper School

Hands-on workshops, experiments and demonstrations. Serious Fun! 26 February - Play with your food

Hove Park Upper School Chemistry meets cookery. Kitchen experiments and healthy eating hints. www.brightonscience.com

Polly Dunbar at the Book Nook 19 February The Book Nook, First Avenue, Hove Polly Dunbar visit the Book Nook with Tilly and her friends.

01273 911988 www.booknookuk.com

Ecoteers Adventure!

19-27 February Arundel Wetlands Centre

Visit the four indoor zones: animals, plants, bird or insects, and complete activities to earn an Ecoteer badge.

01903 883355 www.wwt.org.uk

January /February 2011

Arty stars and planets Age 6+

23 February The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux Arty workshops for half term fun.

01323 832731 www.the-observatory.org

Galleries and museums

ComPassion at Stanmer Ball An evening to raise money for Chestnut Tree House Children’s Hospice and the Disasters Emergency Committee.

01273 473771 compassionatstanmer.bohea.co.uk

What’s on Families

Early years Age 2-5 Brighton half marathon Youth races

20 February Starts Madeira Drive, brighton

Brighton and Hove Museums Sessions include art and stories.

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

The Brighton Half Marathon main race starts at 9 am with the Youth Races starting at 9.20 am for the 8-11 and at 9.30 am for the 12-16 year old runners.

All young runners will be given a banana and drink at the finish and a medal. www.brightonhalfmarathon.com

A Dark Day in Paradise

Bird Boxes for Spring - Fun for all

Royal Pavilion FREE day

20 February Woods Mill, Henfield

Run especially for disabled children and their siblings. Take a walk around the woods and discover something about our feathered friends. Build and decorate a bird box to take home.

01273 497561 www.sussexwt.org.uk

Zany Zone of experiments 21 February The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux

Zany zone is an area of crafty experiements.

01323 832731 www.the-observatory.org

Eat your heart out Age 6+ 22 February The Observatory Science Centre, Herstmonceux

Get your heart pumping, check your pulse and make a stethoscope and then make heart warming treats.

01323 832731 www.the-observatory.org

Love a Slug

22 February The Pump Barn, Seven Sisters Country Park Make nest boxes, homes for lacewings and bees, bird feeders, sow seeds and find out how to make your garden more attractive to wildlife.

01273 497561 www.sussexwt.org.uk

Animal Encounters 23 February Drusillas Park

Enjoy animal encounters with some of the Park’s popular residents. Visitors will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with a range of species including snakes, chinchillas, cockroaches, rats and lizards.

01323 874100 www.drusillas.co.uk .

Until 16 January Royal Pavilion, Brighton

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

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

Passing Shadows

26 October - 1 April Brighton Museum and Art Gallery The transience of life and beauty is addressed through a selection of master prints from the Fine Art Collection including works by Durer and Hogarth.

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

Farmers’ markets Churchill Square Farmers Market

Every Wednesday 10am-4pm

Mermaid Market Saturdays and Sundays 11am-4pm

Brighton Marina Square

16 January Royal Pavilion, Brighton

Brighton Farm Market

To celebrate the purchase of the Royal Pavilion by the town of Brighton in 1850, admission is free one day a year. www.royalpavilion.org.uk

www.brightonfarmmarket.co.uk

Picturing Stories

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

Every Saturday 9am-3pm North Road, Brighton

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

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

Shoreham Farmers’ Market

Here, there, everywhere

Worthing Farmers’ Market

9 October - 27 March Towner Gallery, Eastbourne An eclectic mix of artists whose work forms a strong connection with places both real and imagined. Inspired by 60s and 70s archive film footage of the South Coast. www.townereastbourne.org.uk

Tomoaki Suzuki solo exhibition

11 December 2010 - 27 February 2011 Towner Gallery, Eastbourne Tomoaki Suzuki’s figurative sculptures are extraordinarily lifelike. His subjects are real people with distinctive street styles all their own, which Suzuki faithfully recreates by fusing contemporary iconography with traditional Japanese wood carving. www.townereastbourne.org.uk

Anthony Veale Sculpture 9 October - 15 January

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

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

22 January and 26 February South Street Square, Worthing 01903 203252

Lewes Farmers’ Market First Saturday every month

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

Motcombe Village Farmers’ Market

Last Sat each month 10-1pm 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

15

January/February 2011

20