Families Sussex Coast Jan-Feb 2013

Issue 27 JANUARY/ FEBRUARY 2013

FREE www.familiessussexcoast.co.uk

Brighton, Eastbourne, Worthing, Lewes, Littlehampton and everywhere in between!

Photo credit : www.loveheartphotography.com

Baby Issue – How to have a calm baby, and choosing a nursery Family Holiday ideas Top competitions including family photo shoot

Free Drama Class Watch your child’s self-esteem soar with Perform’s unique drama, dance and singing classes.

Our weekly workshops will do wonders for their social, linguistic and physical development as well as being the best fun they’ll have all week.

perform.org.uk

Classes for 4 –12 year o ld perform.org s .uk

0845 400 1281

The really useful magazine for families with children

2 Unique Graveside Ornaments & Sympathy gifts

www.giftsforangels.co.uk

01273 461922/07787 157 220

Registered charity:1093411

WEAR A HAT DAY Thursday 28 th March

2013

Brain Tumour Research Wear A Hat Day

Join the fun on March 28th and help fund the fight against brain tumours ‘Wear a Hat Day’ is a fun way of increasing awareness and getting people raising money for an often overlooked form of cancer. It’s a day every year that we ask people to wear a hat to raise awareness and funds for vital research into brain tumours. A day when we encourage people to make donations in order to wear a hat to school, at work, at social events or even at home.

Brain Tumour Research is a company very close to the heart of local mum and businesswoman Michelle Rice. Michelle’s own daughter Lola tragically passed away due to a brain tumour. Michelle now sells hand-made grave ornaments and 10% of all profits go directly to Brain Tumour Research. See Gifts For Angels.

editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

REGISTER NOW | Tel: 01296 733011

www.braintumourresearch.org

Welcome

Welcome!

Can you believe that Christmas is already over? I hope you all had an enjoyable time with your families and managed to find time to relax after all the chaos that Christmas sometimes brings.

We had a truly magical Christmas with family, and despite it being the first without my amazing Grandpa, the children made it a day filled with joy. All of a sudden it seems that we are back to the day to day reality of the school run and returning to clubs and classes. This issue of Families Sussex Coast is the baby special, so it is jam packed with information to enjoy these early years. For those of you with older children, I have a fantastic article on Family Holidays and as always my What’s on guide is full of fun for children of all ages.

Thanks to those of you who are now enjoying the full Families Sussex Coast experience and have “liked” my Facebook page and follow me on twitter. Not everything makes it to print, so I often update my website with competitions and news which is flagged up on Facebook and Twitter.I hope you enjoy this issue of Families Sussex Coast.

What’s inside?

4 News - What is happening in Sussex 5 Guide to taking your child swimming -

Vicki

13 14

Families Sussex Coast covers: Brighton, Hove, Eastbourne, Worthing, Lewes, Burgess Hill, Hassocks and everywhere in between. Next Issue March/April: Advertising and editorial deadline is 31st January2013.

You can contribute to Families Sussex Coast through advertising, editorial and our whats on pages. Contact Families Sussex Coast 01903 506813

3

Expert advice on confidently taking your child swimming

6

Competitions - Win a fabulous family photo shoot, £25 voucher

7

Cooking with the Kids - Fabulous recipe ideas from

8 9 10 12

for Mummy-Looks-Fab, Menus4Mums 6 months free membership and the brand new Kiddie Coupons book Banana Pancakes

Savvy Food Shopping - Money saving ideas from Menus4Mums Family Travel Guide - Top tips for travelling as a family Baby Pages - Advice and ideas on how to have a calm baby from Babycalm Sussex and Silverson Therapies.

Also, your essential guide to choosing a nursery.

You and your toddler - The advantages of activity classes for

your toddler, and a guide to buying your children shoes by Bobux

The Alexander Technique - a guide to the Alexander Technique What”s on - Your regular roundup of what is on in Sussex

Printed by Warners Midlands Plc.Please recycle your copyof Families Sussex Coast when you have finished with it.Copyright: Families Sussex Coast December 2012 . 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 publisher 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.

Sussex Coast 01903 506813

4

News

offering ‘The Ultimate West-End Experience’ for ages 5-13 with professional West-End Dancers and Actors this February Half-Term.

Modern-day Mary Poppins offers helping hand!

Little Fidgets release new

BabyExpo

The little smARTies

The little smARTies is a school of music and ARTs that specialises in ARTs education in schools and ARTs based educational term-time and holiday programmes for young people aged 5-13. All our staff are CRB checked and either qualified teachers or professional dancers, actors or artists. smARTies aim is to deliver innovative educational workshops for young people with an ARTs edge.

All our workshops take place in various venues across Brighton and Hove.

Booking now for ‘The Ultimate West-End Experience’ a three day workshop that gives your child an exciting taste of what life is like as a West-End Actor and Dancer. Students will be split into age and ability groups and will carousel between dance, acting and singing classes with three West-End professionals.

Over the three days students will learn choreography and songs from well -known musicals as well as devising their own pieces of drama that will be showcased to parents, family and friends on the last day!

(The workshop runs from Monday 18th February 2013- Wednesday 20th February 2013 from 9:30-3:30 and costs £95.

Download a booking form from our website.)

All information is available on our new website! Find information for all our programmes at www.thelittlesmarties.co.uk For further information please email Elizabeth Brown thelittlesmarties@hotmail.co.uk

Spanish CD for children!

Sussex-based Little Fidgets run language classes for 2-11 year olds in nurseries and after-school clubs.

They have just released a fantastic CD of songs in Spanish for children called ‘On The Move with Spanish for Fidgets’; the CD is packed with great traditional songs like ‘Head, shoulders, knees and toes’ and ‘Insy Winsy Spider’ as well as some new songs written specially for Little Fidgets.“Music is one of the most effective and fun ways to learn languages”, says Little Fidgets founder, Lucy Amos. Spanish is spoken by 400 million people worldwide and it is known to be an easy language to learn, which is why it is becoming more popular in schools. The CD costs £12.50 inc p&p and you can buy a copy by visiting the Little Fidgets Shop at www.littlefidgets.co.uk.

For further details please contact Lucy at Little Fidgets 01273 833340 07946 589683 or email info@littlefidgets.co.uk

Parlez-vous Français/Español?

Little Fidgets are expanding and are looking for fluent French & Spanish speakers to run classes during term time throughout the Sussex area. Full training, plans and resources provided – you don’t need to be a qualified teacher. Ideal for mums looking for something to fit round a family. Call Lucy on 01273 833340 or visit www.littlefidgets.co.uk.

Special Indoor Offer from Fishers Farm Park From 7th-31st January Fishers FarmAdventure Park have a special entry price to use the indoor soft play!

Adult entry is just £1 and a child is £5. This offer is available all day!

You will also have access to the coffee shop, restaurant and shop as well so why not take advantage of the reduced entry and let the kids burn off some steam and have fun in the soft play while you have a coffee!

See www.fishersfarmpark.co.uk for further details. Terms and conditions apply.

Sussex Coast

editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

For the last 120 years, Norland College’s agency has been the agency of choice for parents wanting the best of the best for their children. It is no surprise that when The Royal Family and countless celebrities are looking for childcare, Norland is often their first stop.

Now parents and guardians can benefit from the wealth of training and expertise of a Norland trained nanny without the hefty price tag! Brighton-based Georgina Allen, who has worked as a nanny for the last five years, is embarking on a new venture: a bespoke childcare consultancy offering Brighton families tailored advice in their own home or via telephone and Skype.Georgina, described by those who know her as a modern-day Mary Poppins, offers a fresh and fun twist on the traditional no-nonsense values of a good old-fashioned British nanny.

She is passionate about young people and keeps herself up-to-date with new developments in the world of childcare, through training courses and the latest literature. Services Georgina offers include one-to-one home visits, advice on routines, weaning and sleeping, menu plans and how to cope with teething and behavioural problems. She is fully trained in paediatric first aid and is fully CRB checked.Georgina can be contacted on 07851228771 Email info@georginaallen.com Skype nannygeorgie1 Twitter @nannygeorgie

The South Coast’s Biggest and Brightest BabyShow and Family Day will return to Brighton on Sunday 30 June

at BrightonRacecourse and Conference Centre with Headline Sponsors Sing & Sign, Gymboree and Busy Bees Childcare and very special guest Humphrey from Humphrey’s Corner! Baby-planners, parents-to-beand young families from throughout the Region and beyond can look forward to an informative and fun-filled day with expert pregnancy and parenting advice, a fabulous entertainment line-up, 100’s of exhibitors from pre-conception to primary, fantastic show deals and promotions, £1000’s of baby show prizes, face painters, play-zones, petting zoos and much more. The event will also host the National What’s On 4 Junior Awards with Konfidence and What’s On 4 Me LIVE! Not to be missed will be the mumandworking flexible working zone with The Mumpreneurs Networking Club, Innovation Alley, The Pregnant In Brighton Pavilion and The Natural Parenting Zone.

Media partners include ABC Magazine and kids4media.com and the event will support Chestnut Tree House Children’s Hospice and National Childbirth Trust. For more see www.babyexpobabyshow.co.uk

Exclusive Baby Books

When a child is born, most parents receive a “do it yourself” baby book, where all the important information is recorded. These are a lovely gesture, but despite people’s best efforts, many remain un-finished.

ARM Family Research Ltd

is offering their unique “My Life So Far” baby book to help take the pressure off the parents.

The “full baby package” book tells the story of the child from birth to their first day of school and is put together over the same period of time. An email address is created for the child, for parents, family and friends to contribute submissions to the book with photographs and stories.

The book also tells the story of the parents, the grandparents and family, their first home and much, much more.“In a digital age where photographs are kept on computers, mobile phone’s and social media websites, emails can be sent quickly to build your child’s book” Books are presented in hardback bound books, paperback or ring-binder to suit people’s budgets to professional standards Smaller packages are available along with retrospective baby books. Discounts are available for additional children in the same family. Email with contact details for more information – info@armfamilyresearch.co.uk

Swimming Guide

5

Top tips for taking your little one to the pool

Taking your little one to the pool for the first few times can be a bit daunting – here are some top tips from Vicki at the little swim school.

• Have a bath!!! Before you take your little one to a pool, encourage them to be happy in the bath – splash, get their face wet, look under the water (with goggles if needed) to search for hidden treasure and toys, play with watering cans and plastic toys to see if they will put water on or over their heads. If they don’t want to go under the water or get their hair wet, encourage blowing on the surface of the water to get the face as near as possible. When they are fairly happy playing in the bath, you can take the next step to the pool!

• Save money where you can! If you live in Brighton and Hove or Lewes, all children under 16 can swim for free – just visit your council’s website – and do remember most pools let under 3’s swim for free anyway.

• Get your timing right: for your first few visits especially, pick a time where your little one isn’t tired or hungry and this will mean they are at their best – do remember though that they shouldn’t eat for an hour before swimming so take a nice snack and drink for after.

• Take a favourite toy – as the pool will be new to them and children do love the familiar, take toys from home with you- preferably waterproof so you can take them into the pool and they can go swimming too!

• Keep them warm - At the little swim school we run our classes in pools that are between 32 and 34 degrees as children lose body heat much faster than adults and can seem unhappy in water because they are cold, not because they aren’t enjoying the water! Public pools are usually between 28 and 30 degrees, so if you are going to a public pool its worth investing in a little wetsuit.

• Be calm and happy yourself – young children take their cues about situations from their parents – if you aren’t happy in water and take them swimming in a nervous and stressed way, they will pick up on this and not be happy themselves. If you smile and are relaxed, they will feel happy and more confident, not scared. If you have a fear of water it may be best to get someone else to come with you or take your little one to begin with - or maybe go with friends to help you be more relaxed and confident.

• Teach your child how to get into and out of the pool safely - and encourage them to learn to swim to the side, to a noodle or to you and to hold on.

If you practice this enough, it will become second nature and may even save them one day. At the little swim school we teach water safety as well as swimming skills and many of our children who can’t swim, can get themselves to the side of the pool, climb along to steps and get out.

• Once in the water, aim to stay in for about half an hour dependent on the age and happiness of the child. Sing songs, play games and practice kicking legs and simple paddling. If you can, use a noodle or backpack as these are much better for encouraging arm movement – it’s very difficult to use your arms in arm bands!

• Try going under the water together to see how happy your child is – maybe play peek a boo or ring a roses with you hiding under the water. If your little one isn’t happy going under the water, try blowing bubbles on the surface of the water and take it slowly from there – don’t force them under until they are happy and ready.

• And finally, the most important thing: HAVE FUN!! I believe that being happy in the water at a young age is the most important thing – if a child is happy in the water, they will feel confident, be safer in the water, and learn to swim much faster.

For information on lessons with the little swim school, call 01273 207992

Give them a Party to remember!

Specialising in Go-Kart Fun indoors & outdoors Completely safe for children 3-9 years ARE WE UD TO UR O O PR UNCE NNO

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I am expanding across Sussex and am looking for open minded, self-motivated, hard working individuals, to work from home with full ongoing training and support from a major international company. Ideally you will have supervisory, managerial, sales/marketing, recruitment, training or self employed background.

Maybe you have taken a career break to raise a family or want to develop a ‘Plan B in these uncertain times.

Start Small, Build Big. Join our team and see your life develop.

Call Ann now on 01243 430289 for a new start

Sussex Coast 01903 506813

6

Competitions

Love Heart Photography is a local family photography business based in Worthing.

Love Heart Photography has teamed up with Families Sussex Coast to offer you the most amazing prize of a Family Photo shoot worth £250!

You can choose from new born, baby, pregnancy or family. The prize includes a DVD of all your shots in digital format, and two prints of your choice.

For shoot ideas please go to www.loveheartphotography.com.

To enter, simply “Like” Love Heart Photography’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/pages/Love-Heart-Photography/194572747259513 and write a comment including “Families Sussex Coast” on their wall.

Sam Mackley, owner of Mummy Looks Fab is offering Families Sussex Coast readers the chance to win a voucher worth £25 to spend at Mummy Looks Fab online. Mummy Looks Fab stocks maternity and breastfeeding clothes, bras and accessories making this the ideal prize for a new mummy or mum-to-be. Sam also is the Bra Lady for the South Coast, and stocks bras from 28 to 52 and AA to L cup.

If you would like more information please contact sam@bralady.co.uk or go to www.mummylooksfab.co.uk For your chance to win a £25 voucher for Mummy Looks Fab please answer the following question

What does Mummy Looks Fab not sell? a. Breastfeeding clothes b. Maternity clothes c. Dressing-up clothes

Please send correct answers to editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk before 31st January 2013

More prizes to be won by checking out details on p7 from Banana Pancakes, and p11 from Babycalm Sussex!

Plus a fabulous online competition to win family tickets to Madagascar Live at the Brighton Centre, details at www.familiessussexcoast.co.uk

Win delicious meal ideas for busy families

Menus4Mums is a fabulous company who help busy mums plan

healthy affordable meals for their family. Families Sussex Coast is delighted that one lucky reader will be given the opportunity to win a 6 month membership to this fantastic website worth £40! The winner will receive weekly menu plans, with recipe cards and handy shopping list. The meals also take into account supermarket special offers to help keep the price down, with many members claiming that they save between £10-£15 per week!

For your chance to win simply answer the following question: How much could you save each week if you win this prize from Menus4Mums? a. £1 - £2 b. £5-£8 c. 10-£15 Please send all correct answers to editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

WIN OVER £775 WITH KIDDIE COUPONS AND FAMILIES SUSSEX COAST!

ALL-STAR Football Parties

TAR ALL-S

FOOTBALL PARTIES

Specialising in Birthday Parties for Boys & Girls aged 4-12yrs • Football Drills • Skills & Techniques • Penalty Shoot Out • The ‘Match’

• Complimentary Party Invitations • Man of the Match presentation • Medals and Certificates • Qualified FA Coaches

To book a Football Party Call Mark on: T: 07878 594642 www.allstarfootballparties.co.uk

Sussex Coast

editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

KIDDIE COUPONS have launched their new book for 2013 and it’s worth over £775.00 in money-saving coupons, redeemable all over West Sussex!

Packed with ideas and information for family days out, family dining, children’s parties and activities, every company featured in the book offers a coupon entitling you to receive free or discounted entry/meals/swims/activity sessions, etc, etc! Furthermore, EVERY coupon is valid for the entire year/season!

Well known venues such as Butlins, Arundel WWT, Fishers Farm and Chiquito are all continuing to offer savings, plus favourite gems including Harbour Park, Washbrooks Family Farm, PLAY, The Triangle Leisure Centre, The Pottery Fun Factory and Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre, to name just a few!

To be in with a chance of winning one of 5 FREE Kiddie Coupons books, simply email the correct answer to editor familiessussexcoast.co.uk before 31st January.

How much is the 2013 Kiddie Coupons book worth? a. b. c.

Over £175 Over £375 Over £775

Cooking with the kids 7

More than just a cookery class!

Sweetheart Berry Tarts

Creamy, fruity and melt in your mouth… you’d never know they’re Gluten Free! Perfect for a Valentines Day treat.

Preparation time: 20 mins + cooling time (15 mins) Cooking time: 15 mins

Equipment:

Individual heart shaped loose bottom tart tins, large mixing bowl, small mixing bowl, jug, fork, tablespoon, teaspoon, knife, work mat, flour dredger, rolling pin, hand held electric whisk, small sieve.

What to do.

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More than just a cookery class

As a mum of 3, Early Years Professional and keen cook, I am passionate about getting kids in the kitchen from an early age, tasting and exploring a wide variety of foods. This is why I decided to set up Banana Pancakes offering a range of fun, creative and educational cooking classes and parties for children from as young as 2 years.Cooking with children doesn’t only teach valuable life skills and encourage a healthier lifestyle, it also builds confidence and self esteem, helps develop language and communication skills, improves numeracy and much more!

I incorporate stories, songs, messy and creative activities into classes to encourage children to have fun with food in a relaxed environment with the aim of sparking an interest in cooking and good food from an early age. We cook a balance of healthier foods and treats so its not all cupcakes and biscuits although we are partial to a few (but often with a bit of sneaky fruit or veg inside) and a meal prepared ‘all by myself’ can tempt even the fussiest eaters to try something new!

So why not escape the awful weather and spend a cosy afternoon in the kitchen helping your little chef rustle up this fruity valentines treat for someone special? I made the recipe gluten free especially for one of my special little girls who is a Coeliac but you can just substitute for regular plain flour if you like.

To find out more about Banana Pancakes cooking classes and parties please visit the website www.wearebananapancakes.co.uk or call Davina on 07989 740351.

In a mixing bowl, rub the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs.

Add the icing sugar and continue until combined.

‘Like’ us on facebook Whisk together the egg, milk and ½ tsp of the www.facebook.com/bananapancakescookery to keep up to vanilla extract using a handheld whisk or fork. date with the latest news, class updates and special offers.

Add 2-3 tablespoons of the egg mixture to the flour and mix gently with a metal spoon. The mixture should start to stick together. Using your hands, squeeze into a ball. Add a little more egg mix if too dry or a little more flour if too wet.

Cut the mixture into 8 equal pieces using a knife.

BANANA PANCAKES CLASSES… Dust the work mat and rolling pin with extra gluten free flour and roll out one To win a half term (6 week course) of Banana Pancakes piece at a time to approximately 3mm thickness. It should be a little bigger than Tiny Cook classes (worth £48,age 2+) or 2 Junior Cook ½ the tart tin. (Gluten free pastry needs gentler handling than standard pastry). day workshops (worth at least £30, age 4+) send in a photo Line the tart tins with the pastry, trimming off any excess. of you and your child(ren) cooking together and tell us what Place the cases in the fridge to chill for 10 minutes. your favourite foods are and why you would like to win .

Make the vanilla cream filling by whisking the double cream, mascarpone and There are both prizes up for grabs so please specify which other ½ tsp of vanilla extract together using an electric whisk. you would prefer. E-mail your photos and answers by 31st Wash and prepare the berries, slice the Jan to editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk strawberries and raspberries if large.

Remove the tart cases from the fridge and prick the bottoms with a fork.. Place on a baking tray and bake for 15 mins in an oven preheated to 180C/Gas marm 4.

Remove the cases from the oven and leave to Bespoke Childcare Consultant cool for at least 15 mins.

Spoon the vanilla cream filling into the pastry Help & advice on every aspect of childcare cases until they are approx1/2 full.

For more information contact Top with the berries and use the small sieve to 07851 228771 info@georginaallen.com decorate the tarts with a dusting of icing sugar.

Chill until ready to eat and enjoy!

Win free

Please keep checking my Facebook page and website for more competition announcements. www.familiessussexcoast.co.uk

tel: 0775 671 524 / 01903 205095 www.loveheartphotography.com enquiries@loveheartphotography.com

Sussex Coast 01903 506813

8

Savvy Food Shopping

Savvy Food Shopping or How to Cut your Food Bill

With food prices rising and incomes stagnating, many families are looking to cut their food bill but still eat well this New Year. Menus4Mums, the online family meal planners, have these 5 tips to help us do just that!

Tip 1: Meal Plan

Start by writing a plan of what your family will eat for the week, allowing for absences, extra guests, or when you’ll need a quick meal. Plan a suitable meal for each day, ensuring that you have a good balance of protein, carbohydrates and vegetables. Think about what needs using up in your freezer or fridge. Then use this to draw up your shopping list.

Tip 2: Stick To Your List!

When at the shops, stick to your shopping list! Don’t shop when you’re hungry, and try not to be tempted by extra items - when you get to the checkout put back anything that’s slipped in (we often save a fiver each time we do this!). If you’re easily tempted, why not give online grocery shopping a go, preferably looking for slots with no delivery charges.

Tip 3: Watch The Deals

Check the maths on deals – some savings are only worth a few pence, and some aren’t savings at all. Only buy Buy One Get One Free items if you know you will use them both. Fresh meat can be frozen for later, but think if you’ll really use up BOGOFs on fruit.

Tip 4: Try Discount Supermarkets:

We investigated Aldi and Lidl for Menus4Mums members in 2012 and were impressed. Price-wise, most products came out about 30% cheaper than the standard supermarket own-brand equivalent, making a great saving on weekly grocery bills

Tip 5: Shop Elsewhere:

Try buying your meat at your local butcher – you’ll be impressed by the quality, and you can buy exactly the quantity you want, saving money and waste. Seasonal fruit and vegetables are often cheaper at your local market or farm shop. And if you run out of milk mid-week, pop in to your local corner shop rather than your supermarket so you don’t spend an extra £20 on items you didn’t know you needed.

If you need any help or inspiration for meal planning, do check us out.

Menus4Mums helps busy parents ditch the takeaways and ready meals and serve up tasty, healthy food for their families, saving them time and money in the kitchen. Visit www.menus4mums.co.uk for more information and to download a FREE one week sample meal plan. see p6 for competition details

Multi Award winning children’s brand TumTum

are pleased to announce the launch of their new Lunch set. Families Sussex Coast was delighted to be given the opportunity to try out this set with my children, and I have to admit that I am smitten! The lunch set has a very sweet dog and cat design on the front which is brightly coloured and ideal for both boys and girls. The lunchbox is also interestingly shaped a bit like a dog bone, which becomes all the more apparent why when you open the lunch box up. Inside it looks like three separate compartments, two open compartments at either end and a small compartment with a lid in the middle. What makes this lunch set unique is the fact the small middle compartment is actually removable. This has proved very useful for snacks on the run which I may choose to take out before or after lunch. The removable pot is ideal for raisins, chopped fruit or other bite sized nibbles, and my 1 year old can very easily can hold onto it and help himself to his snacks.

Another reason this removable element is so useful is that you can choose on occasions not to use it and fill the whole lunch set with for example pasta or sandwiches. What I most like about this lunch box is that it is very versatile.

Sometimes I use it for just one child, by using each compartment for a different food, or two of my boys share it and have a compartment each.

For stockists please visit www.tumtumtots.com RRP £10.

Maternity Reflexology & Holistic Treatments

Personally tailored treatments to reduce stress and aid relaxation Baby Reflex, Maternity Reflexology, General Reflexology, Aromatherapy, Body Massage, Indian Head Massage, Hopi Ear Candles, Reiki

Contact Nicky 07790 225973 nicky@matreflex.co.uk www.matreflex.co.uk Rustington Based Mobile Therapist Find me on Facebook & Twitter @matreflex

Sussex Coast

editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

Family Travel Guide

9

How to have your best family holiday ever.. our top ten secrets

..

Joanna Moorhead, who has been planning her family’s holidays for the last 20 years, shares her insider tips to help you plan or a summer to remember in 2013 Fantastic family holidays don’t just happen. They’re crafted, often by hours of work from one or both parents, who spend endless amounts of time planning, plotting, budgeting and making sure safety nets are in place to stop hiccups becoming disasters. Of course everyone loves spontaneity but for spontaneous decision to be possible, especially where a family with children are concerned, a framework has to be in place... and getting that framework right is the backbone of every holiday.

So how do you do it? Here are our top ten secrets.

1. Don’t cut corners To get the right holiday, you may have to spend a long time on research. Don’t begrudge this time, and don’t expect the perfect holiday to fall into your lap without it. Start with a list of what sort of holiday you’re looking for – the location you’re after, what facilities you need close by, what sort of accommodation you need, how far it needs to be from the airport, and so on.

Give yourself parameters, and then get googling.

2. Don’t expect a bargain

After two decades of planning holidays for my family (my children are aged between ten and 20), I’m sure of one thing: where school holidays are concerned, bargains are as rare as hen’s teeth. Far better to start from the premise that you’ll get what you pay for. Look for the best deal, the best quality that you can possibly afford: but if somewhere seems a lot cheaper than other places, scrutinise it very carefully indeed.

8. Don’t over-plan: have ideas, but leave space to be open to what

you find when you get there. It’s well worth doing some research about the area you’ll be staying in – essential, in fact – but it’s a mistake to plan every jot and comma of your stay before you even touch down. You want to explore, to discover, to be surprised, to make friends – and all these things will only happen if you’ve left the space for them to unfold. So, for as much knowledge as you’ve learned beforehand, always be flexible about what you’re going to find out, and want to do, when you actually get there.

9. Embrace change: as your family grows up, be ready to move on to new destinations and new experiences. For three years running my family had wonderful holidays in a hilltop villa in inland northern Mallorca. It was perfect for us: but by the third year it was obvious my older daughters needed something more: shops, places to hang out, a beach they could walk to. I was desperately unhappy about giving up the villa: but guess what? The following year I found somewhere even better.

10. Set boundaries. It might be a holiday, but rules ensure everyone – especially the parents – get a break. If your children are younger, those rules might be about bedtime (you need some time with your partner, so letting your kids stay up all evening might not be the best move), or about time for the children to go to the crèche; if your children are older, the rules might be about sharing the washing up, or about how much contact you need to have with them through the day. But put your rules in place, because then everyone can relax and have what they came to do: have a wonderful fortnight away.

3. Space is crucial

You know those places that say ‘sleep 4/6’ and turn out, on closer inspection, to have a pull-down bed in the sitting room? Avoid them (at full capacity) like the plague. Squeezing as many people as possible in is fine for students, less good for grown-ups. You want a bit of luxury on holiday – and space is luxurious.

4. Location, location, location

Just as when you’re buying a house, this is your number one priority. Some of the villas I’ve looked at for my family’s holiday this year are twice the price of others, simply because of where they are. If you’ve got younger children, a beach within walking distance may be your number one location priority. Know what you need, and don’t settle for less.

5. Friends matter so think very carefully about who to holiday with.

However close you are, nothing scratches away at a friendship’s weakest points as much as sharing two weeks together. You think you know that couple, and you think you like their kids? Take it from me, you’re going to know a lot about them, and you may have totally reassessed their kids, by the flight home.

6. Be honest about the sort of experience you want.

Holidays aren’t times to be aspirational, or eyeing up the Joneses, or following the in-crowd. They’re about being honest about how you’d really love to spend a fortnight with your family – and who cares what anyone else might think. You don’t need anyone else’s approval, or envy, for the holiday you choose: what this is about is working out what’s right for your family, and making it happen.

Where to go...the Alps The Alps are much too good to save for your skiing holidays – in fact, those who’ve tried the area summer and winter often say summer is the best time to be there. For a wonderful family Alpine holiday, you’ll be hard-pressed to improve on Chilly Powder More information at www.chillypowder.com

Where to go...North Devon

Devon is one of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations, and for good reason: wonderful beaches, plenty to do (even in the rain), beautiful scenery and a wide choice of where to stay. Libbear Barton, a country estate on the north side of the county, hits just the right note of of luxury. More information at www.libbearbarton.co.uk

7. Once you’re there

alternate busy days with quiet ones. Even if you’re a busy, boisterous, action-packed family, everyone needs some downtime. The easiest, simplest way to make sure you get both busy days and more relaxed ones is simply to alternate them. If you went to a water park yesterday, relax by the pool today. If you went fell-walking yesterday, read a book and have a cream tea today. Overloading is the enemy of a good holiday.

Sussex Coast 01903 506813

10

Baby Pages

Is a nursery right for your child (and you) ?

By Joanna Moorhead

How to choose the right nursery

Nurseries aren’t the cheapest form of childcare - according to the latest figures, the average cost of a nursery place for a child under two for 25 hours a week is £103.19 a week. But prices vary dramatically, and in some areas nurseries charge as much as £15,000 a year for 25 hours’ care a week.

Is a nursery the right choice for you?

Studies show that attending nursery can increase a child’s confidence, because it involves mixing with adults, and other children, from outside the family group. It gives children social skills, and experience from an early age of an environment outside the home. The nursery ‘key worker’ scheme, under which each child is allocated a special member of staff with whom they can bond, helps provide security.

Healthy food and menus are another big plus of nursery provision: staff work hard to ensure children are given a balanced diet. And as your child gets older, play and learning opportunities will be targeted appropriately: staff are trained in what young children can do when, and will be conscious of a child’s likely interests and potential.

Nurseries work best for parents who have regular working hours, because it’s difficult or impossible for staff to deal with erratic patterns of collection and drop-off: nurseries often open early in the morning and some close late in the evening, but they are not as flexible as, say, a nanny or a childminder. On the other hand, they have the big advantage that only very, very rarely will they be closed at short notice.

Nurseries may be prohibitively expensive if you have more than one child, although many do offer a sibling reduction. But if you can fit around its opening hours, if your budget stretches to the fees, and if you like the idea of a social environment and a place with plenty of activities and trained carers, a nursery could be the place for your child and for you.

£

How to reduce nursery costs

Most nurseries provide funded places for three to five year olds under the government free nursery education scheme. If your child is younger, check whether your employer can offer help towards your nursery costs through the childcare voucher scheme. Under this, money is taken out of your pay packet before deductions, giving you savings on tax and National Insurance - in return, you are given a voucher or e-voucher that you forward to your nursery, and the amount is deducted from your bill. So it’s a way of getting more childcare for your money - though it requires your employer’s co-operation.

Mathemagical

Start your nursery search well ahead of the time when you’re actually going to need to leave your child: the more confident you are of the choices you make,the happier you’ll be when it comes to the day you have to head back to the office.

Ask around so you get other parents’ views on what nurseries are like in your area.

1. Make a shortlist of ones that might work for you (remember to take geography into account: how easy will it be for you and/or your partner to do the drop off/collect?) and don’t hesitate to ask to visit a second time.

2. Make sure you read the most recent Ofsted inspection report for the nurseries you are considering, and ask whether they have any awards of excellence.

3. Be guided by your instincts when looking at a nursery: it may seem a cliché to say do the children look happy, but it is an important barometer of whether a nursery is good.

4. Be aware of the quality of both indoor and outdoor play areas: are the spaces pleasant, bright, welcoming, and do they seem safe?

5. Ask about meals,how the food is prepared, and what time meals are served.

Are you able to provide input for your child’s food - suggestions for what s/he would like to eat, or recipes? What kinds of snacks are provided and how often are they available?

5 .Watch the children while they’re playing, and pay attention to how much they’re interacting with the staff. How do the staff come across - do they seem happy, relaxed, fun to be around? Do you feel comfortable talking to them? Do they seem interested in your child and his/her likes/dislikes and interests?

6. Ask about organised play sessions - weekly music groups, perhaps, or storytelling. Are there trips to the library, and to the park? How are these organised, and how often do they take place?

7. Make sure you understand what the nursery charges, how payment is made, and exactly what the fees include (for example, do they cover meals, nappies, outings). How many weeks a year is the nursery open? How are parents involved in the nursery, and are there opportunities for parents to meet up?

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Is all well when I’m not there?

As your child is settling into nursery, trust your instincts about how well it’s going.

You know your child better than anyone else, so if your hunch is that your child is happy and contented , that’s almost certainly the case. Remember that in the early days, he or she will probably get more tired than usual -nursery is a big change, emotionally as well as physically. Both your child and you need time to adjust to the new set-up.

Try not to drag out your goodbyes: leaving your child will be difficult, especially at first, but keeping it brief will help you both. Remember that your child may cry every day when you drop them off (and so might you!) for quite a while; this is a normal part of getting used to this big change in your lives. Cope with it by emphasising the positives: think about why you’re working (to make money and provide a better standard of living; to ensure you have an interesting life, and income, in the longer term) and how much your child will benefit from a wider social network.

maths for pre-school children are celebrating their success after founder Stephanie Cracknell won ‘Woman in Education 2012’ in the ‘Local Fun, interactive play sessions that Woman of the Year Awards’. Mathemagical will be adding introduce early maths concepts in an imaginative and engaging way. Give another class to their Monday morning sessions at The your child a head start for school and Wave Children & Family Centre and are also launching have fun! new ‘mini Mathemagical’ sessions - private classes for For more info & to find your local class visit small groups of children taking place in the comfort of your www.mathemagical.co.uk own home, at a time that suits you! Book now by visiting or call 07711 604641 or email info@mathemagical.co.uk www.mathemagical.co.uk.

Sussex Coast

editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

Baby Pages

Calm Babies and Happy parents

11

by Naomi Newland Most mums and dads know that awful feeling when you just can’t calm your baby.

For new parents this can be a particularly worrying time.

But now local mum of three, Naomi Newland is helping parents across Sussex to calm their babies crying and aid restful sleep through her BabyCalm™ classes and workshops.

BabyCalm™ is a unique concept that helps parents to trust their instincts and make their own parenting decisions with confidence – turning crying babies and stressed parents into calmer babies and happier parents!

Naomi, a certified childbirth educator and BabyCalm™ teacher runs a variety of BabyCalm™ courses across Sussex – she travels and will even come to your home.

The BabyCalm Mum & Baby 4 week course

A unique 4 week course designed for small groups of new mums and babies.

The course includes baby calming techniques, interactive class discussions on topics such as development, crying, sleeping and baby touch therapy (simple massage). The classes will help you bond with your new baby, help him or her to be calm and happy and to help you to experience a stress free relationship of trust, calm and confidence.

This course works brilliantly for groups that have met on antenatal classes i.e NCT groups and Pregnancy Yoga groups as Naomi brings BabyCalm™ to a hostesses home! The hostess gets her place for FREE if another 5 mums attend.

Naomi also holds in venues across Sussex for individuals to attend and loves to watch friendships & support flourish by the end of this course.

COMPETITION! 1st Place – A voucher for a FREE place on a BabyCalm™ Mum & Baby 4 week course which includes a BabyCalming CD and BabyCalm™ massage oil 2nd Place – A BabyCalm™ book and BabyCalming™ CD and £20 discount voucher off any BabyCalm™ course or workshop To enter the competition, simply answer the following question by email to editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk before 31st January 2013 How many mums would a hostess need to find to get her BabyCalm™ Mum & Baby course for FREE? a.3 b.4 c.5

The BabyCalm™ Colic & Crying workshop

Intended as emergency one off class to help new parents whose babies are suffering from prolonged and/or baby colic and fretful sleep. Naomi will firstly help you understand why your baby is so unsettled and then demonstrate many techniques and tools to help your baby settle, calm colic and sleep better!

The Antenatal BabyCalm™workshop

Designed to introduce new parents to the reasons that babies are commonly unsettled, including an explanation of baby colic and common reasons babies cry, helping them to understand their baby before they are even born! You will learn how to be a confident mum or dad able to welcome your baby into a world armed with many techniques to make your baby’s transition from womb to world as comfortable as possible.

Naomi is super friendly, experienced with young babies, non-judgemental and loves to listen. Give her a call today on 01903 692265 or 07717 842 448 or email naomi@babycalm.co.uk to share some BabyCalm love.

Naomi is offering an extra special new year’s discount of £15 off the BabyCalm Mum & Baby course for classes booked by the 31st January 2013 – You can book your space while pregnant too!

Find BabyCalm™ & ToddlerCalm™ Sussex on Facebook at Facebook.com/BabycalmToddlercalmSussex You can also claim a FREE BabyCalm booklet full of BabyCalming tips by emailing naomi@babycalm.co.uk

About BabyCalmTM

BabyCalmTM was founded 2007 by mother of four Sarah Ockwell-Smith. In February 2011 BabyCalmTM was launched as a limited company and Sarah was joined by Charlotte Phillips, a mother of one, as Co-Director. In just under two years BabyCalmTM already has a network of 120 licensed teachers, not only UK wide, but also in Canada, Dubai, Iceland, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, Spain and Switzerland, with plans to expand to the USA and Australia in 2013.

Over the next 12 months BabyCalmTM will have helped 15,000 new families to enjoy life with their new baby.

October 2012 saw the release of Sarah’s highly acclaimed first book ‘BabyCalm: A Guide for Calmer Babies and Happier Parents’ (Piatkus), hailed as ‘a refreshing alternative to mainstream prescriptive parenting books’ Sarah’s book discusses the techniques taught in BabyCalmTM classes.

Maternity Reflexology is a wonderful deep relaxing therapy that is designed to support women from pre-conception through to the postnatal period.

Pregnancy is a time of change due to the abundance of pregnancy hormones and the presence of a new life developing in the womb.

For some women this exciting time can be blighted by nausea and sickness, backache, heartburn or other pregnancy ailments.

Maternity Reflexology aims to enhance well-being during pregnancy through relaxation by aiding Mums-to-be on a physical, psychological and emotional level.

It’s not just Mums who love Reflexology…

Baby reflex is based on the same principles as Reflexology but is adapted for babies from 4 weeks old. The techniques were originally developed to assist with bonding but were also found to improve sleeping through relaxation.

Baby reflex consists of 3 weekly sessions which address Feeding and Digestion, Sleeping and Comforting and Wellbeing. They can be delivered in your own home on a one-to-one basis or to groups of up to 6 babies.

During sessions, parents are taught the techniques and then have the opportunity to practice on plastic baby feet and on each other before treating their baby.

Baby reflex is portable and be done on your baby in a café or in a supermarket queue.

To find out more about how Reflexology can benefit you and your baby contact Nicky on: 07790 225973. Nicky is based in Rustington, but is a Mobile Therapist and happy to travel.

Sussex Coast 01903 506813

12 You and your Toddler

Advantages of encouraging physical development in babies and toddlers

by Debbie Webb, Founder of Activ8 For Kids

Babies and toddlers naturally want to move around and explore.

The home environment allows your little one to progress through the developmental stages of rolling, crawling and walking, and to learn how to bend, crouch, climb stairs and manoeuvre around the house.However, how can you help with your child’s physical and emotional development?

Babies and toddlers need lots of opportunities to be physically active; this will provide the building blocks for your little ones future physical development.

Taking your baby or toddler to physical activity classes will give them a variety of movement experiences and enable them to develop their skills of coordination, balance and agility.

Babies need to have tummy time, to roll, sit, crawl and generally explore a variety of environments. These first stages will improve your baby’s hand and eye coordination, upper body strength, balance, confidence and independence.

They will also enable them to become stronger and mastering each stage will then lead them onto the next.

Toddlers need to learn how their bodies work, test their limits, take risks with new tasks and develop an enjoyment of being active and the positive feelings that come from it. Physical activity will improve their flexibility and strengthen their muscles ready for future physical development.

Whether your baby or toddler is shy, outgoing, confident or nervous remember that under 5’s will often get enthusiastic about most things their parents encourage them to do. They love colour, texture and exploring movements.

Therefore this is the ideal age to stimulate their imagination and give them a head start in their physical, emotional and social development.

The element of fun is very important at this age because it enables skills to be introduced, reinforced and absorbed. Stories are a great way to stimulate a child’s imagination and provide a basis for a range of physical movements such as running, jumping, hopping, rolling and dodging. Children’s love of texture can be built upon by the use of sensory balls and equipment: opportunities for children to throw and catch objects which feel and look different to traditional balls will ensure that skills are developed and entrenched.

After the success of Activ8 Toddlers we are launching an Activ8 Baby Session at Lancing Parish Halls on a Wednesday 10:15-11am.

Visit www.activ8forkids.co.uk or www.facebook.com/activ8forkids to book a place or find more information.

A hop and skip for happy feet

I have been incredibly privileged to have been given the opportunity to try a pair of Bobux shoes for my youngest son. At 11 months, just as Leo was starting to walk, I knew it was time to get him his first pair of shoes. When his cute little blue and white shoes arrived I was so delighted, as they were absolutely gorgeous – soft leather and a lovely design. I almost didn’t want him to wear them, they were so nice! Leo wore and loved his first shoes until he at 16 months eventually out grew them. They were a perfect first pair of shoes, as his feet were well supported yet allowed to be flexible. Jana Buch has kindly provided some expert advice here on choosing your child’s first shoes.

Precious little feet need extra special attention; the ultimate gift you can give your child is healthy feet. Babies are born with soft, malleable bones that harden as they grow. This time of growth is crucial to a child’s development - footwear choices can affect the health of their feet for life.

Many shoes on the high street feature rigid soles and inflexible materials that can actually damage children’s feet. Podiatrists recognise that ‘barefoot is best’, so little toes can wriggle and feet can grow unrestricted. Unfortunately going barefoot is not practical; babies and children’s feet need protection so they can explore the world around them.

New Zealand shoe company Bobux has developed a range of footwear to actively promote growth, flexibility and freedom. Bobux believes that children’s shoes should completely replicate the benefits of going barefoot, whilst giving all the necessary protection that little feet need. Its range of pre-school shoes is

Sussex Coast

editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

specially designed to mimic the comfort and healthy benefits of barefoot f reedom.

The range, which is endorsed by the American Podiatric Medical Association, comprises soft sole for baby’s developing feet, step-up for first walkers and i-walk for confident walkers.

Leading footwear expert Jana Buch works with Bobux to create shoes that are developed with the child’s feet in mind, to ensure maximum comfort and freedom of movement, without compromising on style. “It is important for parents to know that rigid or restrictive shoes can cause damage to children’s feet, potentially leading to short-term or long-term health issues,” says Jana.

Jana recommends that you consider the following points next time your little one needs a new pair of shoes: - do the shoes feature superior quality leather that allows feet to breathe?

- do the shoes have fully flexible soles that mimic the feeling of barefoot?

- do the shoes feature a wide toe box to allow little toes to wriggle just the way they want to?

- do the shoes come with adjustable fitting options designed to reflect the development shape of a child’s foot?

You can find out more about Jana’s tips for healthy feet at www.bobux.co.uk I have written a full review at www.familiessussexcoast.co.uk.

Stockists of Bobux shoes in Sussex include Klodhoppers Ltd, 103 Blatchington Road Hove and Tootsies World of Shoes, 8 Buckingham Road Shoreham-by-Sea.

alexander technique

The Alexander Technique 13

Why choose the Alexander Technique?

By Mark Claireaux M.S.T.A.T. Mark qualified in 2004 and runs a successful practice in Central Brighton. He also tutors at the Brighton Alexander Technique College and holds regular Workshops and classes at Brighton Natural health Centre.

We live in a high tech age but we blame the use of computers and smart phones or that we have the wrong chair for our back, neck or shoulder pain. We seldom think of how we are using ourselves when sitting typing away or even texting. We may find ourselves slumped and then try and sit up straight but find we can’t maintain that for long as it hurts. Sound familiar? There is a way the body likes to move and a way it doesn’t and people can’t work out how to get comfortable. Alexander Technique is about finding how to stand and sit and move around comfortably with very little effort and my clients are usually surprised at how effortless it can be. I see more and more young people coming to my studio these days for help with back, neck or shoulder pain or even RSI. Much of this is due to not knowing how to use their bodies or even not understanding where to bend from. As we can see from the story here a parent telling them to pull their shoulders back and sit up straight isn’t going to help either. I too constantly tried to correct myself and sit up straight but it hurt.

From a young age I had back pain, much of which was related to bad posture, but I was quite shocked when I started Alexander Technique sessions at how I held stress and undue tension in my body. Not only in the obvious places, ie. my back, but also in my neck, shoulders, hips and ankles. It took a little time but I went from being on very strong prescription drugs to becoming pain-free. As well as improving my posture, I felt I had gained control of my body rather than being a slave to it. I have even been able to apply this to improving my running style. This impressed me so much I decided to embark on the 3 year training course to become an Alexander Technique Practitioner.

You are never too old or young so make an appointment for an introductory session today. www.alexandertechniquebrighton.com Tel 01273 687739

Sussex Coast 01903 506813

14 Whats On !

Spring Barn Farm

I have recently had a brilliant family day at Spring Barn Farm with my family and friends. Many people may think that the farm is not a great day out in the winter, but this is not the case at Spring Barn.

The X Factor Live We have been to and enjoyed Spring Barn Farm many times before, but I believe that it has just got better. The new indoor play area means that the farm can be enjoyed by slightly older children than before, and you can spend more time there even in the winter months. A top venue for a top family day out.

Initially what strikes you as you arrive at Spring Barn is the most beautiful of settings, nestled in the South Downs.

What is so refreshing is that you can see the animals in the fields as soon as you arrive, proving that this family run farm is both a working farm and a visitor attraction. If the weather is dry you can spend literally hours outside, feeding the animals and enjoying the vast expanse of space and outdoor play equipment.

My 7 year old loves the go-karts, bouncy pillow and the zip-wire, whereas my 3 and 1 year olds like the sandpit, numerous slides and swings.

Theatre

There is also a huge outside barn where you are invited to touch the animals. This is done by allowing the animals to walk free on a raised area surrounded by straw bales, and the children delight in the rabbits and chickens coming to check them out!

Starlight Express

The addition of heaters means that this is an ideal spot to warm up, and enjoy the wonderful food and drink put on at the café. There is an actual café area where you can sit down to delicious homemade meals such as soup and warm locally sourced meals, or you can sit beside the play area with your own packed lunch and a delicious cake and a cuppa from the take-away.

Sussex Coast

Cinderella on Ice

Pavilion Theatre, Worthing 13th-17th February Wed-Sat, 7.30pm, Thurs, Sat, Sun, 2.30pm A performance of awe and wonder awaits as Theatre on Ice producers Wild Rose, present the internationally acclaimed Russian Ice Stars in a truly magical production of the well-loved fairytale Cinderella. On a real ice rink!

Little Mix

Brighton Centre, Brighton 15th February, 6.30pm The 2011 X-Factor winners are in Brighton as part of their first UK tour 01273 290131

Hey Diddle Diddle

Brighton Centre, Brighton 2nd-12th January, a variety of evening and matinee performances Starlight Express opened to packed houses at the Apollo Victoria in London’s West End in 1984 where it ran for over 7000 performances. It is one of the most successful musicals ever. Come to watch it here in Brighton. 0844 847 1515

Ronan Keating

On days when the weather is slightly less than perfect there is still plenty to do inside. There is now a huge indoor play area suitable for children aged 1-12yrs. The younger children can play in a special toddler area, allowing the older children to play freely on the slides, including the drop slides for the very brave!

Brighton Centre, Brighton 30th-31st January, 7.30pm Your chance to see the stars of this year’s TV show performing live.

0844 847 1515

Brighton Centre, Brighton 20th January, 7.30 Fires, Ronan’s ninth studio album will once again see him bring a string of great contemporary tunes to his fans. With collaborations with acclaimed producers this new album due for release in the autumn will wow audiences when he takes it on tour in 2013. 0844 847 1515

Madagascar Live!

Brighton Centre, Brighton 25th January, 6.30pm, 26th January 11.00am, 3.00pm & 6.30pm, 27th January 12.00pm & 4.00pm Everyone’s favourite Madagascar characters will star in a live theatrical show based on the blockbuster DreamWorks Animation franchise, reliving the fun and humour of the animals and their escapades, brilliantly recreated in an arena production of lively storytelling, dance and music, including the hit song ‘Move It, Move It’.0844 847 1515

editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

Pavilion Theatre, Worthing 20th February, 2.00pm Hey Diddle Diddle is a magical show of songs, laughter and audience participation – ideal for children of all ages!

website for films 0871 7042056 www.picturehouses.co.uk

Saturday morning pictures

The Ritz Digital & Connaught Cinema, Worthing Every Saturday 10.15am Check website for films 01903 206206 www.worthingtheatres.co.uk

Museums Charlotte, the Forgotten Princess

Royal Pavilion, Brighton 10th March 2012 – 10th March 2013 An exhibition devoted to the short life and tragic death of Princess Charlotte Augusta of Wales.

Wild Animals

Worthing Museum & Art Gallery 13th October 2012 – 23rd February 2013 Come to Worthing Museum & Art Gallery to step into a scrap-metal jjungle! 01903 221 448

Anton & Erin Go to Hollywood

Congress Theatre, Eastbourne 24th February, 3.00pm Come to see these Strictly Stars at their best. For more details and to book contact 01323 412000 www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk

Starlight Express

Congress Theatre, Eastbourne 26th February – 9th March, 7.30pm Bill Kenwright presents one of the best loved and longest running musicals in theatrical history, as Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sensational Starlight Express explodes back onto the stage with a new production, set to take the UK by electrifying storm.

01323 412000 www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk

Cinema Big Scream!

Duke of York cinema, Brighton Every Wednesday morning at 11.00am for parents and carers with children under 1 year. See website for films. www.picturehouses.co.uk

Saturday morning Kid’s Club

Duke of York cinema, Brighton 10.30 start with film at 11.00. See

by Nick Sharrat

Daydreams and Diaries: the story of Jacqueline Wilson

Hove Museum & Art Gallery 23rd November 2012 – 1st May 2013 An exclusive chance to find out about Jacqueline Wilson, in the first ever exhibition dedicated to the best-selling author.03000 290900

Events Royal Pavilion’s Christmas Ice Rink Royal Pavilion 10th November – 20th January The hugely popular real ice rink is now in its third year. It promises to be as romantic and twinkly as ever, while offering a new and exciting twist with Jamie Oliver’s food and drink offer.

Strictly For Kids Pavilion Theatre, Worthing 8th & 15thnd January Assembly Hall, Worthing 22nd & 29th January

Whats On ! 15 6.00pm – 6.30pm beginners, 6.30pm – 7.15pm improvers For 5 to 15 year olds, dance class.

Hertmonceux Observatory 11th & 12th January, 6.30pm – 11.00pm Open Evenings for BBC Stargazing LIVE

Blow the Post Christmas Cobwebs Away

12th January, 9.45am Join the Sussex Wildlife Trust on this walk. Everyone welcome. Meet on road next to The Plough, Pyecombe.

Walk lead by Sarah - 01252 514163 or 07720 891880 on the day.

Kitty Rose Sales

Rustington Methodist Church Hall 9th February, 10.00am – 12.00pm nearly new sale of pre-loved baby and toddler clothes and equipment. £1 entry.

Worthing’s Outdoor Ice Skating Rink

Worthing 9th February – 10th March Get your Skates on in Worthing as Steyne Gardens transforms into an Ice Skating Rink - skating by the sea is a great way to enjoy time with friends and family. 01903 203252

A visit from the Fat Controller to work at Tidmouth Sheds with Thomas and his friends .

Spring Barn Farm

Lewes 18th – 22nd February Half term fun on the farm including early lambs and a quiz Herstmonceux Observatory Drop in activities in the Zany Zone 18th February, 11.00 am – 4.00pm Normal admission price plus £1 extra per child. www.the-observatory.org

Herstmonceux Observatory

A Hearty Work Out!’ half day workshops 19th February, 10.30am – 1.00pm & 2.00pm – 4.30pm You will be learning all about the heart and how it keeps you alive! You will also get your heart pumping, check out your pulse and make your own stethoscope. Just some of the fun activities before you relax and make your own heart-warming chocolates for a belated Valentine’s treat. 6+yrs. www.the-observatory.org

the historic telescopes at the Moon itself! (weather permitting).9+yrs. www.the-observatory.org

Markets

Modelworld 2013

Brighton Centre, Brighton 22nd – 24th February, 10am-5.30pm A great day out for kids and adults alike with superb railway and model engineering displays it is a must for every modelling enthusiast! Radio controlled cars, trucks, boats and tanks will be demonstrated. Other exhibits to inspire the children include model workshops by Airfix, Midair Models and Lego building.0844 847 1515

Kitty Rose Sales

Heene Community Centre, Worthing 2nd March, 10.00am – 12.00pm Nearly new sale for pre-loved baby and toddler clothes and equipment. £1 entry.

Shoreham Artisans’ Market

Shoreham-by-Sea 26th January & 23rd February Local food and drink, arts and crafts.

Traders offering quality, craftsmanship, knowledge and above all, passion.

Starting January 2013 and then every 4th Saturday of the month.

01273 263152

Herstmonceux Observatory

‘Curious about Chemistry’ half day workshops 20th February, 10.30-1.00pm & 2.00pm – 4.30pm Come and have a go at some exciting chemistry experiments. 6-9 yrs morning, 9+ yrs afternoon. www.the-observatory.org

Fishers Farm Park

Wisborough Green 16th-24th February “Wiggly Week” Wiggle your way to Fishers this Half Term to meet a fang-tastic selection of creepy critters!

Hug a bug, cradle a corn-snake, giggle with a gecko or tickle a tarantula. Also, place your bets at the “Wiggly Piggly Racing”, discover the high wire “Squirrel Scramble” or watch the special “Wiggly Week Show”.

Drusillas Park

Alfriston 20th February Once again Captain Barnacles from Cbeebies Octonuts makes a return visit to this popular Sussex Zoo

Herstmonceux Observatory

Drusillas Park

Alfriston17th February

‘Rocket to the Moon’ Twilight special 21st .February, 1.00pm – 7.00pm The rocket is the only engine that will work in space. To-day you will make and launch a water-powered rocket which you will float back to Earth by parachute. You will also make and race simple rocket powered cars. All this before you have a look through

Sussex Coast 01903 506813

16

Worthing Youth Theatre/Media Youth club specialising in drama and media

Drama for all members & film making and pod -casting for seniors

sm

ies

School of Music, ARTs & Innovative Educational Study-support.

Meet at The Rosie, Littlehampton Road, Worthing

8-11yrs - 5.30 to 6.30pm 11-14yrs - 6.30-7.45pm 14-18yrs - 8.00 - 10.00pm

Elizabeth Brown 07909 834586 www.thelittlesmarties.co.uk

www.worthingyouththeatre.org info@worthingyouththeatre.org

Celebrate your family with

Photo Charts Baby Books, Wedding Books, General Family Research

Call 0773 646 8035 www.ARMFamilyResearch.co.uk info@armfamilyresearch.co.uk

10% off for all Families Sussex Coast readers. Please quote reference FSCQ1

Sussex Coast

editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

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Innovative educational workshops for children aged 4-13, classes run during school holidays and term time.