Families North Devon & Exeter Jan/Feb 2014

The essential local magazine for parents...

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Issue 11 January/February 2014

News Plan your 2014 holiday How to choose a Nursery

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❤ plus your local What’s On Guide & much more inside

photo - M & Co

What’s On

January/February 2014

Contents News

2-3

Health

4-5

Holidays

6

Bumps & Babes

7

Education

Clubs & Classes

8-9 10

Flexible Working

11

Books

12

What’s On

13-16

Note from the editor

News

6 9

Get them writing

11

Happy New Year!

Christmas might have passed but give the gift of reading this New Year to your sons! Broadcaster Simon Mayo, author of the Itch series, is supporting a new drive to get boys reading and writing, as National Literacy Trust research shows boys’ are half as likely to enjoy writing and reading as girls. The trust calls for a renewed focus both at school and at home on ways to get boys into writing. ‘It’s so important for boys to find a topic that interests them before they pick up a pen and start writing,’ says Simon Mayo, whose protagonist is a 14-year-old boy obsessed with science. ‘I wasn’t particularly interested in writing at school but I was hampered by being fantastically slow. When I started writing the first Itch book it was as a short story for my son, but then I was completely captivated by the plot and characters, and the story took over.

If you can grab a child’s imagination in the same way, getting them to write about a hobby or something they really enjoy doing then the whole story writing world is open to them.’ www.literacytrust.org.uk

National Storytelling Week This February brings seven days of reading, sharing and listening with the 14th Annual National Storytelling Week. From 1st -8th February, schools, drama clubs and performance groups across the country will hold events to celebrate the joy of storytelling. Over the past decade National Storytelling Week has gone from strength to strength, with all areas of the community taking part in creating and enjoying storytelling – in fact, Storytelling Week is estimated to reach an audience of 17,000 this year! Storytelling enriches lives everywhere, in nurseries and schools as well as community centres and theatres, and during Storytelling Week there will be a whole host of storytelling events near you, so why not join in? www.sfs.org.uk/national-storytelling-week

For many of us January is the time we start to think about our summer holiday. We have advice on making the most of your time together without all the distractions of home.

We also have a great article on choosing a nursery for you little one as well as advice on flexible working and the benefits of swimming with baby.

Our regular features on news, health, parenting and our What’s On guide should keep you busy up until our March/April issue comes out!

All the best,

Editor and local mum

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Next issue: March/April 2014

Childcare/Early Years

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If you are interested in advertising and would like to know more about pricing, distribution and upcoming articles please call 01271 863995 or email editor@familiesnorthdevonexeter.co.uk © Families North Devon & Exeter. We take every 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 consequences. Any original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families North Devon & Exeter nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families North Devon & Exeter is part of the Families ® group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license.

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News If you have any news which our readers would like to hear about, send it to editor@familiesnorthdevonexeter.co.uk

GCSE shake up

Nursery inspections get tough

Will we see a revival of Charles Dickens and Jane Austen in Michael Gove’s new GCSEs? In the latest in a number of moves to make GCSEs more demanding, the Education Secretary has announced the introduction of a new curriculum. Under these more challenging examinations, students will be expected to memorise maths formulae and concentrate more on spelling, punctuation and grammar, plus studying more pre-20th century authors.

Ofsted are to toughen up their inspections of nurseries, day-care facilities and pre-schools, as figures show that over 150,000 children are enrolled in substandard settings. In future, all nurseries will be expected to achieve an outstanding or good rating, while those with lower ratings will potentially face closure.

The new curriculum, beginning in September 2015 with the first exams being taken in English and Maths in summer 2017, has the aim of improving pupils’ achievement, compared with their contemporaries in other countries. While the maths syllabus will include ratios, vectors and conditional probability amongst other topics, the new curriculum for English literature demands students study at least one Shakespeare play, one 19th century novel, a selection of poetry, and British fiction or drama from 1914 onwards. In English language, the emphasis will primarily be on ‘unseen’ texts.

‘The new mathematics GCSE will be more demanding and we anticipate that schools will want to increase the time spent teaching mathematics,’ the Education Secretary said. ‘On average, secondary schools in England spend only 116 hours per year teaching mathematics, which international studies show is far less time than that spent on this vital subject by our competitors. The new GCSEs in English and mathematics set higher expectations.

They demand more from all students and provide further challenge for those aiming to achieve top grades.’

Nurseries will now be in line with schools, in that there will no longer be a ‘satisfactory’ category. Instead, nurseries considered to be underperforming must improve dramatically within two years, while those rated as inadequate will be re-inspected in a matter of weeks, with the prospect of being de-registered and ultimately closed.

‘I wouldn’t have wanted my child to go to an inadequate nursery and I don’t believe that any other parent would either,’ said Sir Michael Wilshaw, chief executive of Ofsted. ‘So we’re going to be less tolerant. When we go back to re-inspect an inadequate setting and it hasn’t improved, it’s likely that we may take steps to cancel the registration.’

This is all part of Ofsted’s overhaul of the early years inspection system, amid fears that too many young children are languishing in inadequate and substandard care. But is this move as positive as it sounds? Davina Ludlow, director of daynurseries.co.uk, said, ‘While we believe that every child deserves the very best education, we are concerned about the impact this ‘downgrade’ could have on nurseries and hard-working staff members. The change being brought in by Ofsted risks adversely impacting staff motivation, resulting in more harm than good.’

The exams will also end the use of A* to G letter grades in favour of a numbered scale from nine to one, with nine being the highest grade. Plus, course modules and assessments will be dropped, with grades determined by only one exam for most subjects. The new curriculum for the rest of the GCSE subjects will be announced this spring.

Wear A Hat Day Please join other families and schools (as well as companies, groups, shops and associations across the country) in supporting #WearAHatDay on Friday March 28th 2014 - it’s going to be bigger, hattier and more fun than ever! #WearAHatDay is the UK’s premier brain tumour awareness event, taking place every March during national Brain Tumour Awareness Month.

Thousands of families and children in homes and schools across the land take part every year – wearing hats of all shapes, sizes and colours, getting involved in an amazing array of fun and inventive events, making and collecting donations from everyone around, all helping to raise awareness and funds for vital research.

Brain tumours are scary – this disease is the biggest cancer killer of both children and adults under 40 yet the science is woefully underfunded, receiving less than 1% of national cancer research spend.

Stand out from the crowd and wear a hat for Brain Tumour Research on March 28th.

Register today for your #WearAHatDay event: Hat-phone: 01296 733011 Hat-mail wearahatday@ braintumourresearch.org Hat-web www.wearahatday.org PS Don’t forget to share your photos with us on Facebook & Twitter and let’s celebrate #WearAHatDay together!

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Health

Banishing the wet monster: How to help your child overcome wetting the bed

By Elisabeth Dolton

Wetting the bed has been the hardest childhood ailment for my children to grow out of.

Banishing that wet monster did not come easy and we are not alone. Although all children eventually gain bladder control at night, they do so at different ages, and many children over the age of five still frequently wet the bed. In fact, around 1 in 7 children aged five, and 1 in 20 children aged ten, are frequent bedwetters. they are on the toilet have them go, then stop for Why children wet the bed is hotly debated. The a few seconds, then go again, so that they are majority of bedwetting is inherited. For three strengthening the muscles. out of four kids, either a parent or close relative also wet the bed in childhood. Other causes Lifting and night pants are overactive bladder syndrome (involuntary passing of urine), or not enough hormone that Waking your child to go to the toilet, and regulates urine production. wearing night pants can increase confidence and help for sleepovers. However some believe Researchers have found that deep sleepers are these should be avoided because they interfere more likely to wet the bed, as the brain doesn’t with the child’s individual motivation to wake up get the signal that the bladder is full. Children and use the toilet. sometimes don’t go to the toilet due to fears such as being scared of the dark. Starting to Medical treatment wet the bed especially after being dry can be due to emotional problems such as stress and In persistent cases, desmopressin, a anxiety. Although rare, constipation, diabetes, manufactured form of the hormone that or an infection can cause bedwetting. decreases urine production, can be prescribed.

The effects are short term and the problem likely Experts agree there is no one single cause of to reoccur when treatment is stopped. bed-wetting, and there are a number of methods that can help.

Complementary and alternative

therapies

Drinking and eating “Avoid or limit foods that that are spicy, or high in sugar or fat, including fizzy drinks,” says Alyson Carter, a Registered Nutritional Therapy Council Practitioner. “These foods can irritate or inflame the bladder, loosening the muscles, making it harder for a child to keep control.”

Fresh foods, and calming foods such as oats, are recommended. Alyson also advises restricting fluids from around 1 ½ hours before bedtime.

Support Parents may be embarrassed to broach the subject, but your GP can take blood and urine tests to rule out any illness or infection, or refer you to a clinic. “We went to see our child’s teacher,” said Sarah, with 7 year old Isabella “and discussed how children asked and went to the toilet. We asked her to help ensure our daughter went to the toilet regularly.”

Exercises There are specific exercises that can strengthen or expand a child’s bladder. “Our doctor suggested that when my son needed to toilet, I make him wait at least 10–20 minutes longer.

This helped his bladder expand,” said Lisa, mum to three boys. Another exercise is when

Several complementary and alternative therapies have been tried including acupuncture, chiropractic care, and hypnosis.

While some parents have reported great improvements it is not a fix all.

Behaviour therapy For younger children motivating them with a sticker chart and rewards is effective. Selfawakening therapy helps older kids recognise when their bladder is full. A simple selfawakening routine may be just before they go to the toilet during the daytime, they lie down in their bedroom, pretend to sleep and think about their full bladder and needing to go.

Re-training Bedwetting alarms specifically help train your child to wake when they have a full bladder.

The alarm’s sensor detects dampness and eventually, the child’s brain learns to pay attention to bladder signals and wakes up naturally before wetting the bed. “They have been so easy to use, the girls had no problem with them and the message really got through,” said Kim, mum of two daughters. “The results were amazing. Not every child will react so quickly, but I would highly recommend giving it a try,” Sam. There is no doubt bedwetting feels embarrassing to talk about and it can be stressful, but every year 15 percent of children who wet the bed, become dry, with no intervention. They will all outgrow it eventually, but if you and your child are motivated to get dry, choose your method and stay positive. It worked for us.

Thanks to Alyson Carter, Registered Nutritional Therapy Council Practitioner, www.nut4life.com You can contact her on 07816 981858.

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Make the bed in several layers, alternating a fitted sheet with a waterproof pad. This allows you to quickly and easily remove the wet items and avoids the need to re-make the bed.

Leave dry pyjamas and towels out. So that a child can find them easily.

Make sure there are no hidden fears or problems about getting up at night. For example, fear of the dark or spiders, getting up from a top bunk, etc. Try leaving the bathroom light on and keep a clear path to the bathroom.

Protection. Use waterproof covers for the mattress and duvet, and use absorbent quilted sheets. A moisturiser cream is useful to rub on the skin that is likely to become wet, to prevent chaffing and soreness.

Set a reward for your child of getting up at night to use the toilet. Instead of focusing on making it through the night dry, help your child understand that it is just as important to wake up in the night to use the toilet Bedwetting can damage the child’s selfimage and confidence. Prevent this by being supportive and reassure them that bedwetting is common and that they will overcome it Try to be sensitive to any family or school disruption that might be stressful to your child. Do not tease or allow siblings to tease a child who has wet the bed.

Encourage your child’s co-operation to be dry at night. Give simple explanations about what is happening and the bladder works. Go to the toilet before going to bed.

Encourage your child to help change any wet sheets. This will increase their awareness and may give them extra motivation for them to get out of bed and go to the toilet to avoid the chore of changing the sheets.

Further information and help ERIC - Education and Resources for Improving Childhood Continence www.eric.org.uk www.uofmhealth.org/health-library www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Bedwetting www.webmd.com/features/bedwetting

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Health

How to deal with head lice Many parents are horrified when they hear that their child has or may have head lice. However, there is no need for alarm. They are common in children, but may occur at any age and they do not indicate dirty hair or poor hygiene. They pass from the hair of one person to another by walking from one head to another. They do not jump or fly and they cannot live for long away from hair.

What do they look like?

Head lice are tiny brown insects about the size of a sesame seed. They cling to hairs, close to the scalp. They lay eggs which hatch in 7-10 days.

Nits are the empty white egg shells which are attached to the hair. They look like dandruff but cannot be brushed out easily.

What symptoms do they cause?

Probably none. An allergy to the lice may cause itching.

They do not wash off with normal shampoos.

Looking for head lice

They are difficult to see and are best detected by combing with a special detection comb that can be bought at the pharmacy. One is available on prescription also.

Doctor Sue Wet hair method:

Wash hair in the normal way and use plenty of conditioner. Get rid of tangles with an ordinary comb. Then use the special fine-toothed comb.

Comb from the roots to the tip of the hair. Make sure all parts of the hair are combed.

Check the comb for lice after each stroke and if present, remove from comb with a tissue and wash comb before next stroke.

Wash out the conditioner and repeat combing procedure

Dry Hair method

This is quicker but cannot be used as a treatment.

Comb dry hair to remove tangles and then proceed as for wet hair but comb each section of hair 3-4 times.

What if I find lice?

Visit your pharmacy (or GP if you cannot afford the treatment). There are various lotions and sprays which you will be advised about.

All the family and close contacts should check for lice and, if needed, should undergo treatment at the same time.

Most treatments need 2 applications.

You can use the wet combing method if you wish and this needs to be done on at least 4 occasions, 4 days apart. This will need to be done on all the family that have lice, but the same comb can be used for everyone. You should continue until you have had 3 clear combings.

Be aware that nits may still be visible when the lice have been cleared.

Scalp irritation can continue for 2-3 weeks after successful treatment.

There is no need for child to stay off school, but parents of close friends should be advised to check their children.

Only use treatments if lice have been detected. http://cks.nice.org.uk/head-lice#!management will give you more information on treatment. www.chc.org gives more information about wet combing and sell a kit.

No more BPA

By Susan Tomlinson Banned in plastic baby’s bottles across the EU, Canada and the US, yet the UK government is convinced the chemical Bisphenol A, or BPA is entirely safe. Is it?

From tins, and plastic bottles, to boxes, dental fillings and even shopping receipts, the chemical is present in a huge range of objects.

It’s main job is to make plastic shatterproof, so, in the world of packaging and manufacturing, it’s crucial. The trouble is, since the 1930’s, it’s been associated with all sorts of health problems. It’s what’s known as a suspected endocrine disruptor, meaning it mimics the body’s hormone system, and has been linked with diabetes, obesity, cancer and even behavioural problems in children.

But the jury’s not out yet.

Other research shows that the small amounts of the chemical that leach into our food and drink are of an acceptable level and at present that’s where the UK’s Food

Standards Agency sits. But the EFSA is presently reassessing all the data and is due to report back in 2014. In the meantime, if you’ve got you’re doubts, here’s how to avoid it:

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More and more BPA-free products are coming onto market. In fact, many food companies are beating government policy by using alternatives. If a product isn’t labeled BPA free, you can avoid the chemical by looking at the plastic recycling code on the side of the container.

Anything marked with the recycle code 7 or 3, may contain BPA. Cut back on using cans, as most of them are lined with a BPA resin.

Avoid heating plastic containers in the microwave or the dishwasher, as they may break down over time and allow the BPA to seep into food or drink.

Use glass, porcelain or stainless steel wherever possible.

Join the Breast Cancer UK, in their “No More BPA” campaign. http:// www.nomorebpa.org.uk

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Holidays

Embrace your 2014 family holiday

By Rich Legg With so much pressure to have relaxing ‘me time’ on holiday, we look at ways to have what some people would call an alternative holiday - a family holiday spending time with your children.

Living in one of the most beautiful areas in the country, we really are spoilt for choice of where to go on holiday. No need for a long car journey with the same old ‘are we nearly there yet?’ when you can book a holiday just the other side of the county and be in another world within an hour.

The key when booking your holiday is to do your homework. Have a good look through the whole of the website of the holiday provider, have a look on review websites such as www.tripadvisor.com or www.ukcampsite.co.uk, go with the majority and don’t be put off by a random review. Have a look at the hotel, cottage, or campsite on Google maps and Google Street view to find out what is in the immediate vicinity and how far it is from shops or the beach or what ever is important to your families needs.

The best way to get a real feeling for the hotel, cottage or campsite is to phone them up, ask them as many questions as you like - if they’re not happy to spend time with you on the phone or they can’t answer your questions then look somewhere else.

They should be experts of where to go and what to do in there area.

Before you hit the road, decide how many days you’re going to spend doing what. Is your holiday going to be full of days out at theme parks,

or is it going to be relaxing (or not) on the beach. Have a good look on the internet with the children at what days out there are and maybe choose a couple that the whole family will like. It’s also a good idea to find a day out which you can do if it’s raining. If you’re planning lots of days out, try to have a day in the middle of the week relaxing at the campsite or hotel to re-charge your batteries.

Take a board game!

It might seem old fashioned, and the children will probably moan at the mention of it, but it’s a great way to spend some quality time as a family with a pack of biscuits. A pack of cards or a set of dominos is a great idea if you’re short of space, and can be used to fill in half an hour spare time while mum is relaxing in the shower.

Leave the TV at home Lots of families take their TV with them when camping. But can the children manage without The Deadly 60 or The X Factor for the week?

It will give you much more time to spend together as a family if the children aren’t stuck in front of the TV most of the time. Have a game of cricket of rounders.

Watching the pennies?

If you’re trying not to spend a fortune on holiday then make a budget and stick to it. You should be able to work out very closely what your food will be, then set an amount you’re going to spend each day a stick to it! If you have a day out which

costs virtually nothing then you’ll have much more to spend the next day. You could give the children a set amount they can spend on ice creams and toys and teach them how to make their pocket money last the whole holiday.

Once you’ve booked your holiday, some companies will let you pay a bit off each month either by card or by direct debit. If not, it’s best to set up another bank account and ask your bank to set up a standing order to go from your current account into your new holiday account each month. That way you’ll be saving for your holiday without even noticing it.

If you can transfer £100 each month now, come the summer holidays you’ll have an extra £700 to spend.

Remember, you don’t have to dig deep to have a great holiday!

Take the bikes

It’s a great way to have a cheap day out, even if you have to hire bikes.

There are so many cycle paths in Devon and so many quiet country roads to use (if your children are a little older), riding through forests and open countryside with views that stretch for miles. Why not take a packed lunch and have a picnic?

You could even have a bit of fun and hire a tandem which you can all take turns on!

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Geocashing Geocashing is the modern day equivalent of a treasure hunt, and the kids will love it! All you need is a smart phone or GPS. There are over 25,000 Geocashes ‘hidden’ in Devon mostly surrounded by amazing scenery, and they’re all waiting to be discovered. Once you’ve downloaded the Geocashing app to your phone, you start following clues to find its location – just like a treasure hunt.

Here is a brief rundown of what to do:

• Download a geocache app to your phone.

• Enter a postal code or place and click “Search” or “Search for nearby geocaches”.

• Choose a geocache from the list and click on its name.

• Use the clues and your geocache app to help you navigate to the hidden geocache (you’ll often drive to a starting point first).

• If you take something from the geocache, leave something of equal or greater value.

• Sign the logbook and return the geocache to its original location.

Remember above all: enjoy yourselves and spend some time together as a family!

Bumps & Babes

Active babies are Healthy babies!

By Claire Thomas We are all familiar with the benefits of swimming and the importance of being confident in the water for older children but what are the benefits of starting a swimming class with your baby? Claire Thomas explains all.

We all know that regular exercise is good for us and for our children.

Most weeks it seems that there is a reference in the media to rising rates of obesity, in both adults and children, and the impact this can have on general health. Childhood obesity causes great concern as obese children are more likely to become obese adults, which in turn puts them at risk of many health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease and certain types of cancer to name but a few. Shocking statistics published by the NHS in 2012 showed that 1 in 3 children in year 6 of primary school are overweight.

As parents we all want our children to be as healthy as possible. We can do our best to promote this by encouraging a healthy balanced diet and physical exercise. Being active should be encouraged from birth. There are endless ways to encourage activity in children who are crawling or walking, but how should we encourage babies to be active?

Before your child is crawling you can encourage activity by getting them to reach & grasp and pull & push toys. It is really important to give babies a chance to move their heads, bodies and limbs during supervised time playing on the floor, both on their backs and tummies. This allows them to explore and develop what their bodies can do naturally. This may seem an obvious thing to point out, but time allowing babies just to ‘be’ on the floor is something that has gradually diminished over the last few years with the increasing number of baby contraptions available. What with car seats, prams, buggies, bouncers, baby swings, baby seats etc and our increasingly busy lives, it is quite feasible that a baby can just go from

Pitc h fromes £9

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one device to another without getting time to discover what their natural movements are.

The other way to get babies active is to take them swimming. This can be done from a really young age, even before they have had their immunisations. Swimming is unique in that it can be started from birth and it allows independent movement of joints and muscles in all four quadrants of the body in a supportive, gravity free environment. Indeed, it gives babies the opportunity to use muscles they would never use on land!

Swimming has numerous additional benefits for babies and young children. It helps improve their heart and lung function, as regular exercise does for us all. It plays an important role in aiding the development of the nervous system, in particular the vestibular systemthis is the part of the brain that controls balance. A lot of the exercises in baby swimming classes, such as rocking, swinging and bouncing stimulate this part of the developing brain. The physical activity provided by swimming develops muscular strength & symmetry and improves joint mobility.

As well as all these physical benefits, taking your baby swimming provides lots of psychological benefits for them too. It is a great opportunity for bonding between parent and baby and babies flourish in the focussed attention they get in the pool. Most of us with more than one child will know that it is virtually impossible to give the second or third child the same attention you gave your first born as you are running around after the eldest! Time spent in the pool, just you and your baby, can give babies with siblings some really important one-to-one time. The independence of movement that babies have in the water also gives a feeling of self-confidence and autonomy- it is something they can do without being dependent on an adult. Finally, swimming encourages better eating and sleeping patterns, which I’m sure that all sleepdeprived parents will agree, is worth it in itself! Swimming is suitable for most babies, but if you have any concerns about your baby’s health or suitability for swimming then speak to your GP or Paediatrician.

We left feeling a part of the family

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If you make one resolution this New Year, why not help your baby be an active baby and lay the foundations for a healthy active life!

Claire Thomas is Owner of Turtle Tots Exeter & East Devon and a GP

Hidden Valley Quality family holidays Hidden Valley Park, West Down, Nr. Ilfracombe, North Devon EX34 8NU info@hiddenvalleypark.com

• Luxury 5 star facilities • Woodland walks & dog exercise areas • 4 miles from Woolacombe Beach • Wi-Fi across the park

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• Children’s play areas • Coffee shop

01271 813 837

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Education

What’s the right age to start school? campaigners say that in other parts of the world, early childhood is recognised as a valuable phase of development in its own right – whereas in Britain, it’s seen solely as preparation for school.

Misconceptions

By Joanna Moorhead A fierce battle has broken out between the Department of Education and a group of campaigners who say British children are being disadvantaged by going to school aged four. Joanna Moorhead investigates.

What is it that children start much too early at four, that stems their creativity and reduces their chance of good exam results further down the line?

According to a growing group of educationalists, thinkers, teachers and parents, the blight on the lives of young children is...school. Or at least, it’s too much school too soon – and that, according to the backers of a new campaign, is exactly what’s happening to thousands of British fouryear-olds each year.

The argument put forward by the Save Childhood Movement, which is running the ‘Too Much, Too Soon’ campaign in favour of waiting until children are six before they go to school, is that young children need the chance to play, and should not be shoehorned into ‘learning’ too early. The

There’s a misconception in Britain, say the campaigners, that starting early with school means settling down to learn more quickly, and achieving more in the long term. But, they say, that’s not borne out by what happens in other countries. “Children who enter school at six or seven – after several years of high quality nursery education – consistently achieve better educational results as well as higher levels of wellbeing,” said 127 senior educational figures in a letter to the Daily Telegraph in September. “The success of the Scandinavian system suggests that many problems in English education – such as the widening gap in achievement between rich and poor, problems with boys’ literacy, and the ‘summerborns’ issue – could be addressed by fundamentally re-thinking our early years policies.”

Specifically, the Too Much Too Soon campaign is calling for *the early years to be re-established as a unique development stage in its own right *protection for the rights of young children to develop naturally *an end to baseline testing *a new emphasis on the importance of play

They point out, too, that prescriptions of Ritalin for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, have quadrupled in the last ten years, and many believe the drug is being used to ‘normalise’ behaviour that may partly have come from having too many expectations heaped on them at too young an age. Mental health disorders among children and young people are also on the rise – again, the question the campaigners ask is whether that could be linked with early pressure at school.

The Department for Education has hit back at the Too Much Too Soon campaign, saying it amounts to a call for dumbing down. Those behind it were a “powerful and badly misguided lobby who are responsible for the devaluation of exams and the culture of low expectations in state schools,” according to a DoE spokesman. “We need a system that aims to prepare pupils to solve hard problems in calculus or be a poet or engineer – a system freed from the grip of those who bleat bogus pop-psychology about ‘self image’, which is an excuse for not teaching poor children how to add up.”

Link with mental health For the Too Much Too Soon lobby, the emphasis on formal education from a young age is part of a mindset that sees testing and academic pressure as good for young people – whereas they believe it’s harmful rather than

Make the most of your Parent Teacher Meeting When you head off to your parent teacher meeting it is easy to feel as if you are part of a production line. There is a conveyor belt of parents all waiting to be seen, talked to, and dispatched efficiently within the allotted 10 minute time-slot. It can all feel impersonal and rather perfunctory.

Some parents dread any meeting with a child’s teacher, particularly if their own experience of school was negative. However, confident they are in a work environment, on entering a school building they revert to feeling like a child who has broken school rules and is about to face the music.

For some teachers facing parents can feel just as much of an ordeal – and they are almost certainly drained at the end of an evening.

Yes, there are horror stories. I know of one Headteacher so obsessed with timekeeping that all teachers had an egg timer on their desks, and

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helpful. They point out, for example, that the now-implemented Year One Phonics Screening Check in English primary schools is unnecessary and say there’s little correlation between the results of the phonics check and a child’s reading achievements at the end of Year 2.

he patrolled the hall, keeping a beady eye on any parent who seemed to be going over time. At the same school the tables in the hall were set so close together you could overhear what teacher’s were saying to other parents. Not really a conducive atmosphere for a private discussion about your child, but great for timekeeping!

However, the vast majority of schools see you as a partner in helping your child to learn and most teachers really do care about your child’s progress. So how can you make the most of a brief meeting and come away feeling as if it has all been worthwhile?

Remember that this meeting is a two way exchange of information. Start off by involving your child and asking them about their schoolwork – what they are finding easy, and what they are struggling with. Ask them if there is anything they would like you to raise with the teacher? It’s possible their answers will help focus your mind before a meeting.

When there are issues at home – a family bereavement, divorce or any problems that could be affecting your child emotionally, it is important to let the teacher know. It can help them to understand your child’s

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Nurseries

How to choose your child’s nursery

By Joanna Moorhead

It’s one of the most important decisions you’ve made for your child in his or her life so far. So which nursery is the right one – and how do you know?

Joanna Moorhead shares some tips There are all sorts of different nurseries out there. Big ones, small ones; ones run by the local council, and ones run by independent companies. There are nurseries attached to primary schools, and there are stand-alone nurseries. When you start out looking for one, the plethora of what’s out there can make it all seem very daunting.

But here’s the first, the most important, and possibly even the only thing you need to know about how to make your choice. Listen to the voice inside your head, heed your instinct about what’s right for your child, and you’ll almost certainly make the ‘correct’ choice. Because the truth, of course, is that there isn’t a ‘right’ nursery or a ‘wrong’ one; there is, however, a nursery that will suit your child best, because it will mesh in with your own and your partner’s ideas about how to raise a child, and what matters most in his or her life. All of which is why what you feel inside you about a nursery will give you the biggest guide as to what to go on.

Your nursery checklist

Looking around To kick the process off, you’ll need to put together a list of nurseries in your area (or perhaps in the area where you work, if you’re thinking your child can be cared for at nursery while you work nearby). Comb through the nurseries in your area online; look at the Ofsted reports for any you think sound promising. Think about what factors matter most to you in a nursery (see our checklist) and then make appointments to look around a selection of those that have, or might have, vacancies.

When you look round, don’t be too anxious about all the questions you need to ask or whether you’re going to miss something vital. Instead, switch on all your ‘vibes’ and take in the holistic sense of the place. Does it feel friendly, and welcoming, and a fun place to be, from what you can see of it? Do staff treat you warmly – are you convinced by what they’re telling you? Do you, in a nutshell, feel a sense of confidence about the place; would you feel confident about leaving the most important person in your life, your child, here in the care of the people you’ve met? If the answer is yes, the nursery you’ve just seen is a possible one for you; if you have any doubts whatsoever about this most crucial thing, whether you’re confident about leaving your baby there, cross it off your list at once.

For more stories on choosing a nursery see www.familiesonline.co.uk

behaviour or a sudden change in attitude to work.

If you feel there is a problem with your child’s lack of progress think about how you are going to frame this so it doesn’t come across in a way which puts a teacher on the defensive. Acknowledge there is an issue and ask for advice on how you can help your child at home. Most teachers will respond positively and will suggest ways of reinforcing classroom work at home. They might send home additional practice sheets, or suggest good websites for some follow up work.

• • • • • • •

What are the most imp ortant things you’re looking for in a nurse ry? Here are some thi ngs you need to think abo ut:

•

•

•

Food: how important is it to you that food is organic? Do you like the idea of nursery children eating alongs ide staff – ie, the family model –which some nur series practice?

Outdoor play space: this varies hugely from nursery to nurser y. Think about how important outdoor pla y is to your child, and decide how much imp ortance you’re going to attach to whether the nursery has a garden , how big it is, and how many activities take place in it Wifi: do you have worrie s about wifi and its potential impact on you ng children? If so, make sure you ask abo ut whether there’s a wifi network at the nur sery, and how extensive it is. See ww w.familiesonline. co.uk/radiation

What are their targets in reading, writing and maths?

Can they concentrate and focus on their work?

Are they good at organising themselves?

Do they participate well in class?

How do they relate to others?

Does the teacher have any particular concerns?

Is there anything I can do at home to help?

On the other hand if all is plain sailing and your child is doing well, you can ask the teacher about their new targets in maths or English, so that you know where they are aiming to be and can help them get there.

There is no problem with taking notes as you go along, and if there is anything you need to follow up, check with the teacher about how you should do that. If you need to, you can ask for an extended meeting outside the usual cycle of parent teacher meetings.

Depending on your child, you will almost certainly have particular questions you want to ask, but some sample questions can help your thought process:

When you go home your child will inevitably be curious about what their teacher has said. Give them all the positive feedback you have had from the teacher – they will love to hear it.

• • •

Whatever level they are working at, be open and enthusiastic about the goals set for them and talk about how you can help your child achieve them.

Is my child working to the best of his/her ability?

What are they good at and most enjoy?

Are there any areas they find difficult?

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9

Clubs & Classes

ART & CRAFT

SWIMMING

Torridgeside Swimming Club Torrington 07791 964544 www.torridgesideswimming. co.uk Ilfracombe Swimming Club Ilfracombe 01271 855546 www. ilfracombeswimmingclub. org.uk Splash Swim School North Devon Berrynarbour, Kentisbury, Bideford 01271 325181 www.splashswimschoolnd. co.uk Aquarius Swimschool West Buckland 01271 329750 www.aquariusswimschool. co.uk Academy of Swimming and Training Barnstaple, Ilfracombe, South Molton 01598 760562 www.astswimschool.co.uk Barnstaple Swimming Club Barnstaple 01271 343861 www. barnstapleswimmingclub. co.uk Bebe Swimming Barnstaple, Exeter 0870 034 5627 www.bebeswimming.co.uk Splash Swim School Exeter 01392 833075 www.splashswim.co.uk Turtle Tots Exeter and East Devon 07947 319955 www.turtletots.com Water Babies Exeter 01392 367860

Woolsery Tennis Club Bideford 01409 241620 www.northdevontennis.com S.A. Tennis Exeter 07835 041719 www.satennis.co.uk Exeter Tennis Centre 01392 723699 www.exeter.ac.uk/sport/ exetertenniscentre

Seize the Moment Northam 07773 679559 www.seize-the-moment.net The Creation Station Crediton, Exeter, Exmouth 0845 873 4742 DRAMA www.thecreationstation.co.uk Plough Youth Theatre Torrington FOOTBALL 01805 624624 Little Kickers www.theploughartscentre.

Exeter org.uk 01392 668281 Drama Play www.littlekickers.co.uk Exeter Chivenor Soccer 01392 679197 Chivenor www.dramaplay.co.uk 01271 817337 Stagecoach leebarrow554@btinternet.

Exeter com 0800 389 3712 Ben’s Pre-School Football www.stagecoach.co.uk/ Ilfracombe, Bideford, exeter Barnstaple Stagecoach 07792 388891 Barnstaple bens-footballcoaching@ 0800 783 1390 hotmail.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/ Arsenal Soccer Schools barnstaple Braunton, Barnstaple, Exeter Razzamatazz Theatre 07810 867354 Schools www.playthearsenalway.com Exeter Exeter City Football Club 01884 243325 Exeter www.razzamataz.co.uk 01392 255611 Pyjama Drama www.exetercityfitctrust.org.uk Exeter 0844 504 2550 SURF LIFESAVING www.pyjamadrama.com North Devon Lifesaving Just 4 Funk Productions Club Exeter Ilfracombe 07716 002309 01271 864123 www.just4funkproductions. ann.nurse@hotmail.com com Croyde Surf Lifesaving Playback Youth Theatre Club Exeter Croyde 01363 773337 01271 890101 www.playbackyouththeatre. www. org croydesurflifesavingclub.

Stage by Stage co.uk Exeter 01392 211244 TENNIS www.stagebystage.co.uk Ilfracombe Tennis Club Ilfracombe SPORTS COACHING 07879 882877 Enjoy-a-Ball Tarka Tennis Centre Bideford, Woolsery, Barnstaple Torrington, Westward Ho! 01271 377701 07791 382443 www.tarkatennis.net www.enjoy-a-ball.com

Jg\Z`Xc`jk 9XYp Kf[[c\i Jn`dd`e^ :cXjj\j N\ k\XZ_ pfl _fn kf k\XZ_ pfli YXYp kf jn`d :cXjj\j \e[fij\[ Yp G\ijfeXc KiX`e\i jf pfl ^\k X nfibflk kff Klikc\ Kldj 8hlX Pf^X ]fi Gi\^eXeZp K\c1 '.0+. *(00,, <dX`c1 ZcX`i\%k_fdXj7klikc\kfkj%Zfd nnn%klikc\kfkj%Zfd

Rugbytots Exeter, East Devon 0845 313 3248

Streetz Dance Crew Barnstaple, Torrington, Bideford 07854 975823 YOGA www.streetzdancecrew.com Tatty Bumpkin Project Dance Exeter Barnstaple, Appledore 0845 680 5208 01271 346384 www.exeter.tattybumpkin. www.projectdance.co.uk com K Mitchell Dance Crediton SENSORY 01392 276 526 Baby Sensory www.kmitchelldance.co.uk Barnstaple, Exeter Sarah Anne Westcott 07775 734285 Dance www.babysensory.com Bideford, Torrington, Barnstaple TRAMPOLINING 01237 471954 Bideford Bouncers www. www.bidefordbouncers.com sarahannewestcottdanceand performingartsstudios.co.uk

MUSIC

© Samuel Borges -

www.waterbabies.co.uk Exeter City Swimming Club Exeter 01392 432254 www.exeterswimming.info

DANCE

Neat Feet Dance Academy Barnstaple 01271 850704 www. dancingschoolbarnstaple. co.uk Dancing Feet Academy of Dance Braunton 01271 816213 www.dancingfeetacademy. co.uk Baby Ballet Exeter 01392 279286 www.babyballet.co.uk Vibes Dance Company Exeter 01395 239117 www.vibesdancecompany. co.uk Exeter Academy of Dance 01392 824453 www. exeteracademyofdance. co.uk Joanna Mardon School of Dance Exeter 01404 823980 www.joannamardon schoolofdance.co.uk June Bealey School of Dance Exeter 01392 274493 www. junebealeyschoolofdancing. co.uk Charles Academy of Dance Crediton 07920 180707 www. charlesacademyofdance. co.uk Destination Dance North Devon 07792330354 www.destination-dance. co.uk

Music Makers Bideford 01237 474078 stmaryshouse@bidefordstmarys.co.uk Noisy Nippers Braunton 07776 261541 www.noisynippers.co.uk Jiggy Wrigglers Barnstaple, Bideford, Chivenor 07870 628681 www.jiggywrigglers.com Bumbles Musical Workshop Barnstaple, Bideford 01271 325181 www.bumblesmusicgroup. co.uk Monkey Music Exeter 0845 017 8766 www.monkeymusic.co.uk Kathy’s House Exeter 01392 679674 www.kathyshouse.co.uk Sing and Sign Exeter 01404 548829 www.singandsign.co.uk

When you book, don’t forge t to say you saw it in Families 01271 326783 info@westernkaratewadoryukai.co.uk North Devon Tae Kwon-Do Barnstaple, Northam, Bideford 07855 504315 www.northdevontkd.co.uk Cheng Ba Gua Zhang Bideford 07922 018809 www.chengbaguazhang.com St James Judo Centre Exeter 01363 774693 www.devonjudocentres. co.uk Exeter Keibudo Karate Exeter 07884 017878 www.keibudokarate.com

Exeter Martial Arts Exeter 01392 663000 www.exetermartialarts.co.uk Concept Martial Arts Exeter 07814 494317 www.conceptmartialarts. co.uk Banyu Hatten Aikido Exeter www.bhay.org Black Tiger Kung Fu Crediton 07973 263049 www.blacktigerkungfu.com

GYMNASTICS

North Devon Gymnastics Club Bideford, Barnstaple, Torrington 07765 248461 www.northdevongymnastics. org.uk WriggleRhythms Falcons Gymnastics Exeter Academy 07738 237928 Barnstaple www.wrigglerhythms.co.uk 01271 859191 Musikgarten www.falconsgymnastics.

Exeter co.uk 01363 83583 Exeter Gymnastics Club www.musikgarten.co.uk Music with Mummy & Jolly Exeter 01392 250381 Babies www.exetergymclub.co.uk Exeter 01392 433255 www.musicwithmummy.co.uk LANGUAGES Bonjour Tonton!

Exeter MARTIAL ARTS Western Karate Wado-Ryu 07929 419798 www.thelanguagetortoise.

Kai Whiddon Valley, Barnstaple com

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Parenting

Aiming to work flexibly?

Think carefully before you ask your employer.

By Mandy Garner, editor of Workingmums.co.uk Next year the right to request flexible working will extend to all employees, but currently it applies to parents and carers. Although Labour is reported to be looking into plans to make the right to request a right to have flexible working for parents of young children, currently employers can turn down a request on any of eight grounds so it pays to think carefully before you lodge a request. Below are some tips which might get you the flexibility you need.

1. Check out what your company’s policy is on flexible working. All companies are obliged to consider flexible working, but they are not obliged to agree to every request. However, some companies are more innovative in their policy on flexible working and may already have trialled different forms of flexible working from the usual ones of working different shift patterns or cutting your hours. For instance, they might offer term-time only working or working from home or annualised hours.

2. Be clear about the hours you want to work and how you want to work them, for instance, could you do some of your work at home in order to cut down on travelling time? Look at your childcare options too and ensure they fit with your working hours. Can you afford to work part time?

Or does working full-time and paying full-time childcare work out to be uneconomical? Can your partner also go part time so you can split the childcare or picking up times?

3. Once you know the hours you want to work and how, make a business plan which emphasises the advantages for both you and the company of working this way. For example, you could say there are aspects of your job – research, reading, data input – that could be done better at home with no other distractions around. Think through the logistics from both your and your employer’s perspective and prepare a compromise solution. Give yourself plenty of time for negotiations. It is best, for instance, to at least open conversations on flexible working before you go on maternity leave rather than a week before you return, even if your situation or ideas about working patterns might alter after the birth.

may come in handy or you could propose that you work the new pattern for a trial period, subject to review. Your employer should reply in writing within 14 days of the meeting.

7. If you suspect your manager has not followed procedures properly or has not given due attention to your case, make an appeal to his or her line manager within 14 days of receipt of their decision. Reasonable grounds for dismissing requests for flexible working include that it would have a detrimental effect on other staff or on the company’s ability to meet customer need, but these need to be fleshed out.

8. If this appeal is not successful, you could lodge a claim with an employment tribunal on the grounds of sex discrimination, particularly if the decision forces you to leave your job.

Mandy Garner is editor of Workingmums.co.uk, Jobsite and community for workingmums. Visit the site to search for flexible jobs, or to find advice on flexible working or starting your own business.

4. Talk to other people in your company and elsewhere who have negotiated flexible working and ask them about their experiences and tips.

5. Put your request in writing to your line manager and sign and date the letter.

6. Your employer then has 28 days to arrange a meeting with you to discuss your request. Be calm and business-like in your negotiations.

Don’t lose your calm if they turn you down flat (this is actually proof that they are not abiding by the legislation as they should at least consider your case properly and give you reasonable grounds for turning you down).

Similarly if they do not reply to your request, this goes against the legislation. Try to pre-empt any concerns they have and suggest ways that you would address them. This is where a compromise suggestion

Looking for a new challenge?

The franchise for Families North Devon & Exeter magazine is for sale!

Create your dream work life balance If you are a mum—or a dad—looking for a fun, creative and worthwhile business opportunity within your local community then a Families franchise could be for you.

For more information please call 01271 863995 or email editor@northdevonexeter.co.uk www.familiesnorthdevonexeter.co.uk

11

Book Reviews Ed’s Reading Room Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my New Year book selection for you to enjoy. The books are all available online and from good bookstores.

Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free online book and story club for primary children in homes and schools.

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS My Hamster is a Spy by Dave Lowe (Templar £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘When Ben Jinks’ house is burgled his super-brainy hamster decides they need to do some surveillance – or at least snooping, like in their favourite television programme Spy Gang. Ben soon finds that spying isn’t as cool as he first thought. But they think that Ben’s scary teacher meeting the school bully’s brothers may be a good lead and the unusual pair hatch a plan to catch the criminals.

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS Layla Queen of Hearts by Glenda Millard (Phoenix Yard Books £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘Griffin Silk’s best friend Layla is like a gift to the Silk family after Griffin’s little sister Tishkin went out of their lives – and Layla delights in the time she spends with them all. For Seniors’ Day at school, Griffin says Layla can share his grandmother Nell but, much as she adores Nell, Layla longs for someone special of her own to invite.

This is when Miss Amelie comes into their lives and brings something unique to the children.

‘This is a wonderful tale about the power of friendship and a small but life changing miracle. The warm-hearted story is accompanied by lovely thought-provoking illustrations.’

Stay Where You Are and Then Leave

by John Boyne (Doubleday £10.99)

‘Will Ben be able to explain that his hamster is a genius and is able to talk?

This is a very funny story for boys and girls to enjoy reading on their own or reading together.’

ED SAYS: ‘The hard times and struggles of the First World War are seen through the eyes of young Alfie Summerfield whose father has gone to fight for his country. As time passes and with no more letters home, Alfie thinks his father must be on a secret mission. He by chance gets a lead as to where he might be and, troubled and bewildered, he is determined to find out what has happened to his father.

Claude on the Slopes by Alex T Smith (Hodder £7.99) ED SAYS: ‘Claude, the most charming dog you could ever meet, and his best friend Sir Bobblysock are amazed to see a blanket of snow covering the street.

They soon realise that they are going to have an exciting day with a snowball fight, sledging, building a snowman, skiing – oh… and causing an avalanche.

‘Curl up in the warmth and be amused by this super snowy story and laugh out loud at Claude’s latest hilarious adventure. This book with its fantastic illustrations is a delight from start to finish.’

Catch that Bat! by Adam Frost (Bloomsbury £4.99) ED SAYS: ‘Tom and Sophie love living on a houseboat with their parents who both work with animals. In their latest adventure they learn a lot about nocturnal creatures that prowl and swoop while most humans are sleeping.

They particularly become involved with a young bat who is in danger. Will Tom and Sophie’s moonlight vigil help to reunite the young bat with its family?

‘This is a fantastic story that gives detailed information about working with animals. It is full of zoological facts and is great fun for boys and girls alike.’

12

‘This moving story is brilliantly written and will be appreciated not only by older children but also by adults.

It is sure to linger in your heart and mind particularly as WW1 is commemorated this year.’

The Thunder Omen by Caroline Lawrence (Orion £4.99) ED SAYS: ‘It is the midwinter festival of Saturnalia. Threptus, the young apprentice of the soothsayer Floridius, is enjoying the feasting and fun.

However, along with the celebrations, pantomimes and general mayhem, disaster is threatened by the thunder omen. Will Threptus be able to help Floridius overcome his latest dilemma?

With Floridius and the sacred chickens, Threptus’ life in Ostia is always chaotic.

‘This is an exciting mystery full of historical facts about ancient Rome that will delight young readers.’

Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI awardwinning website. It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher of more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating.

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Out & About THEATRE & SHOWS

LANDMARK THEATRE

Ilfracombe www.northdevontheatres.org.uk

family fun! Approx running time: 2hours (inc. interval) Minimum age recommendation: 5 All seats £12.00 (Concessions) £10.00, NDT members/supporters £9.00, Young Person £7.00

QUEEN’S THEATRE

Barnstaple www.northdevontheatres.org.uk

Devon Youth Jazz Orchestra

Dinosaur Zoo

Wednesday 5th February, 17:00 & Thursday 6 February, 10:30 & 1:30pm Direct from the West End, Dinosaur Zoo brings these awesome prehistoric creatures to the stage as you’ve never seen them before!

From cute baby dinos to teethgnashing giants, observe and interact with these extraordinary life-like dinosaurs in this imaginative and hilarious live show.

But watch out - not all of these ravenous reptiles are as tame as they seem! A tyrannosauric treat for all ages 3+. www.dinosaurzoolive.com Approx running time: 50 minutes (no interval) followed by a meet & greet with the dinosaurs.

All seats £12.00, Schools £9.50, Rows A-C £13.50

Laurel & Hardy

Sunday 16th February, 14:30 Presented by Phoenix Theatre Arts Laurel & Hardy invented the modern comedy double-act and are still as influential today as ever they were. Affectionately regarded by millions, they made over 100 films together and the iconic moments they created still live long in the memory. Set in the ‘afterlife’ Tom McGrath’s play takes an intimate and hilarious journey through the rise and demise of this incredible partnership.

Through laughter and tears, the fat guy and the skinny guy relive the most important moments in their careers and introduce the key players who helped to shape and influence their lives. Performed

by Lee Pace and Dan James, a comic double act with a wealth of pantomime experience behind them, Laurel & Hardy seamlessly mixes live action with video footage to tell the heart-warming story of a legendary partnership.

A not to be missed half-term treat featuring a feast of slapstick

Saturday 25th January, 19:00 Following appearances at the Montreux Jazz Festival and the Albert Hall, don’t miss the first public performance in North Devon by the talented young players of the county’s award -winning Jazz orchestra. Under the inspirational direction of Brian Moore, DYJO and DYJO2 have an amazingly sophisticated repertoire ranging from trad standards to experimental modern pieces, combining youthful energy with a professionally tight sound.

The two ensembles bring together some of the most talented young musicians from across the county, building on their training as classical musicians to bring out their ability to improvise and SWING! Some outstanding soloists have emerged from their ranks and Devon has received a special award for its outstanding commitment to jazz education.

The programme will include classic jazz tunes such as Body and Soul and Mood Indigo; big band numbers from the likes of Count Basie, Stan Kenton and Buddie Rich and arrangements of recent hits such as Copacabana and Michael Buble’s Feelin’ Good.

For more information visit the website www.dyjo.org Approx running time: 2 hours 5 minuted (inc. interval) Minimum age recommendation: 7 All seats £10.00 NDT members/ supporters £8.00 Under 25s £5.00

Northern Devon Music Festival of Rememberance Monday 10th and Tuesday 11th February, 18:00 Join learning communities, schools and settings from across Northern Devon as they pay their musical tribute to remembering The Great War in its centenary year. Young people will come together to commemorate the lives of those who lived, fought and died in the First World War. There will be large-scale ensemble performances, singing, music and dance, original compositions and a whole host more, all showcasing the musical talents of young

What’s On We have taken every care in preparing the listings in this magazine but sometimes events are cancelled or times change, so please double check details before setting out. people from across the locality.

Approx running time: 1 hour 30 minutes. Minimum age recommendation: 8 All seats £6.00

North Devon Gang Show

Wednesday 19th - Saturday 22nd February 19:15 From the moment the curtains go back, the Gang will have you rockin’ along to this year’s show.

With songs from popular music to the musicals, this fast-moving variety show contains song, dance, music and laughter for all the family. Come along, take in and soak up the Gang Show atmosphere.

Approx running time: 2hours 20mins (inc. interval) Minimum age recommendation: 5 Stalls/Dress Circle £9.50 Upper Circle £8.50

EXETER NORTHCOTT www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

Earworms

Sunday 19th January & Sunday 16th February 2pm Live music for all the family Hosted by Mervyn Bedford (Musikgarten) Enjoy, discover and experience music in a familyfriendly atmosphere, featuring a wide range of musicians and music. www.earwormsexeter. blogspot.co.uk Tickets: £4.50, £3 children over 2 years Age: families with children aged 0-11. Running Time: 1hr £2 booking fee.

Pinocchio

Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th January 2pm Moss Side. 1976. The year of the Great Heatwave and Pinocchio’s on the run. In a ramshackle shop his father Elijah, the toymaker, waits. Will Pinocchio ever return to make him proud?

Award-winning director and choreographer Benji Reid joins writer Mary Cooper to produce this fast, funny and magical show for all the family.

www.familiesnorthdevonexeter.co.uk

Featuring body-popping and puppetry, music and animation this is a retelling of Carlo Collodi’s children’s classic like no other. www.breakingcycles.co.uk Tickets: £12. Family Ticket: £27 for 3 + up to 3 more tickets £9 each Age: 7yrs+ Running Time: 2hrs All transactions are subject to a £2 booking fee.

Splosh!

Sunday 16th February 10:30am Part of the family fun day.

Pull up a bath mat and join Little Lost Duck, Syd the Sponge and the rest of the Bathtub Gang for the bubbliest birthday party anyone has ever thrown, ever! It’s Mr Bath’s birthday and you are invited to his Splishy, Splashy, Sploshy party. But first, his friends are treating him to a very special bath of his own to make him look spick and span and as shiny as a rainbow fish! This enchanting production for very young children uses dance, music and puppetry to help children and families explore communicative play at bath time. www.sixthsensetyp.co.uk/sploshnational-tour Tickets: £5, Family Ticket: £12 for 3 + up to 3 more tickets £4 each Age: children aged 2-5 years and their families. Running Time: 30 mins, plus 10 mins playtime All transactions are subject to a £2 booking fee.

WESTPOINT ARENA Exeter www.westpointarena.com

Robin Cousins Ice

Wednesday 19th - Sunday 23rd February Brand new sensational skating show ICE comes to Westpoint Arena on 19 February for five days only during half term!

Olympic champion and head judge on ITV’s Dancing on Ice, Robin Cousins has hand-picked the greatest ice skaters from around the globe to bring his incredible new production to life.

Dynamic and atmospheric, Robin Cousins’ ICE will draw you into its unique world, where internationally renowned skaters glide, soar, flip and fly in a truly theatrical setting ICE features a powerful soundtrack of original music and reworked modern classics designed to delight and enthral. http://www.hightail.com To book tickets please phone 08444 99 99 55. Tickets can also be purchased in person by visiting the Westpoint office, Clyst St Mary, Exeter, EX5 1DJ Monday to Friday between 9am and 12noon.

13

What’s On

Out & About MUSEUMS

from the museum reception in person or by phone using a credit or debit card on 01392 265858. £20 per child Tickets are also available in person or by phone using a credit or debit card on 01392 265858

SPACEX

Exeter, www.spacex.org.uk

Art Club Exeter, www.exeter.gov.uk/ramm

Little Explorer Classes

Thursday 9,16,23,30 January 6,13 February, 10.30am - 11.30am Collections inspired art and craft sessions for under fives with Creation Station. A chance for under fives to take a journey of discovery and make collections inspired creations. Parents, grandparents and carers can enjoy quality time with their little ones in a friendly, social environment.

Contact Erin Blake in advance: Tel 0844 824 4534, Mob 07925653942 or email erinblake@ thecreationstation.co.uk.

Entry £5 (siblings £2.50) Contact Erin Blake in advance: Tel 0844 824 4534, Mob 07925653942 or email erinblake@ thecreationstation.co.uk

Messy Metamorphosis

Saturday 25th January Have fun investigating a range of materials and see how they change through mixing, melting, squashing and warming. You’ll make a fantastic photographic record of your messy experiments to share online.

House of Cartons

Saturday 1st February Build a large tower structure and decorate it with exciting, contrasting surfaces.

Children’s Workshops: Animated Tudors - Trade Off

Wednesday 19 February to Friday 21 February, 9.30 - 4.00 Creative and stimulating activities for unaccompanied children aged 8 years and over. Three workshops exploring Tudor life with animation.

Join in for one day or come to all three. Explore a variety of animation techniques and special effects to tell a story of Elizabethan life and trade in Exeter.

Book your tickets here online or

© Spacex

RAMM

Saturdays, 11am–1pm, Ages 6–11, children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult, £5 or three for £12, includes materials and refreshments

Exhibition Express

Saturday 8th February Assemble an exhibition in just two hours. Turn objects and materials into impromptu sculptures for display.

Animation Make & Take

Monday 17 & Tuesday 18 February, 10am-12pm Ages 6-10, children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

Monday 17 & Tuesday 18 February, 2-4pm Ages 11-15, £8 for both days, booking essential This February half term we are working with shop and craft studio Arrietty to offer a two day workshop.

A combination of craft and animation, you’ll get the chance to make a handcrafted item in the Arrietty studio which you’ll use in an animated film, then take home to keep.

Family Exploration Day

© Spacex

If you have any events which you would like included in our What’s On listings please email them to us at-

Thursday 20 February, 11am-1pm & 3-5pm Ages 5-11, children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult, free, booking essential Join us on a journey of discovery investigating materials, feel the weight of stone and the lightness of silk. Work with your children to make a collaborative artwork.

Outer Space — Chance Conversions

Friday 21 February, 11am-4pm Ages 12-15, £10, booking essential,

DEVON WILDLIFE TRUST HALSDON

North Devon, www.devonwildlifetrust.org

Hideaway at Halsdon

Sunday 16th February, 11am- 3pm A chance to explore the hidden wonders at Halsdon! Come along and find out what makes its home in the woodlands, along the riverbanks and out in the open at this special place. Walks, talks, family activities plus a few surprises! Meet at Ashwell car park, EX19 8RF or grid ref: SS 554 131.

Contact Phone Number: 01409 221823 Contact Email: info@ northerndevonnia.org

DUNSFORD

Moretonhampstead, www.devonwildlifetrust.org

Dunsford family activity day

Thursday 20th February, 11am3pm Half-term woodland wildlife fun with winter tree ID games, nature quiz trail and woodland craft activities.

No need to book, just turn up on the day. Contact Phone Number: 01392 279244 Contact Email: contactus@ devonwildlifetrust.org

editor@familiesnorthdevonexeter.co.uk © flickr/Chris Moriss

14

equipment included (bring lunch) A chance to learn or improve your animation skills. Animate the deconstruction of a variety of interesting three dimensional objects using stop-motion, followed by their reassembly in new and unexpected forms.

www.familiesnorthdevonexeter.co.uk

What’s On

© flickr/yrrek

RHS GARDEN ROSEMOOR Torrington, www.rhs.org.uk

Myths and Legends: Winter Sculpture Exhibition

Until 23rd February, 10am – 5pm Rosemoor’s popular Winter Sculpture Exhibition is on now, this year with a Myths and Legends theme. See more than 120 pieces of sculpture created by 20 of the UK’s top sculptors, including Simon Brant, Ama Menec, George Hider and Ian Marlow.

Lily by Ian MarlowThe sculptures are arranged throughout the beautiful Devon garden, and each piece has been carefully placed to enlighten, amuse and inspire.

As you explore, don’t miss some of the garden’s seasonal highlights, including perfumes from viburnums and daphnes; beautiful berries; and surprising colours and textures, especially from our fine trees.

You can also join a free guided walk each Wednesday morning (weather permitting). Walks depart from the Visitor Centre at 11.30am.

Normal garden admission applies (RHS members free) Most sculptures are for sale Diary note: Calling Tolkien lovers Dragon by Simon BrantThe ‘Myths and Legends’ theme is a forerunner to a major exhibition coming to Rosemoor in 2014 – Journeys Into Middle-earth - featuring original art and paintings from Ted Nasmith, a leading illustrator for J.R.R.Tolkien.

Enter a magical world with this family-friendly exhibition of artwork inspired by Tolkien’s Middle-earth.

The exhibition will include letters and memorabilia kindly loaned by the Tolkien family, family trails, and garden sculptures including the outside of a Middle-Earth home and garden.

More information coming soon!

THE BIG SHEEP

Bideford, www.thebigsheep.co.uk

FUNtastic half term Fun and Frolics at the BIG Sheep

Saturday 15th – Sunday 23rd February During February Half term holidays the park opens daily from Monday 17th until Friday 21st February 2014.

You don’t have to watch BBC 2’s Lambing Live to catch sight of a lamb being born because The BIG Sheep’s maternity wing during February half term (Saturday 15th to Sunday 23rd February) will be full of resident ewes waiting to give birth and you may be lucky enough to witness one of our white woolly creatures enter the world.

With sixteen million lambs born in the UK each year this makes the lambing season the busiest event in the farming calendar, an event which can also be a fraught, and sometimes risky, business bringing with it a rollercoaster ride of sleepless nights, complicated births, orphans and adoptions for

© flickr/Mark A C Photos

ATTRACTIONS

Out & About

the BIG Sheep’s resident midwife, Kellie Thompson. Last year many visitors were amazed as they watched the ewe’s give birth right before them with Kellie on duty assisting ewe’s experiencing difficult births or those giving birth to twins and triplets. Visitors can enjoy taking pictures of the mummy sheep feeding their new born lambs and nurse Kellie says, “Some adults and children have never seen a ewe give birth and it is fantastic to witness their the sheer look of wonderment on their faces when a new lamb is born.”

Younger children can enjoy Ewetopia, our massive indoor heated play area, on the selection of great slides and imaginative soft play climbing areas, tumble towers, mazes and obstacles which is heated during the winter. Parents can either play with the children or unwind with a coffee and watch the children from a safe distance. The play area is supervised with CCTV and alarms on the doors, allowing parents to relax in the knowledge that their children are safe and secure. The BIG Sheep Shows, will as usual, put a smile on everyone’s face and ALL our visitors will have a half term day out full of fun, frolics, love and laughter with all thoughts of school banished.

Summer 2013 prices will apply during February Half Term.

NATIONAL TRUST MORTEHOE

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

working safely. This is a great way for active families to let off a bit of steam during the half term!

BUCKLAND ABBEY www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Wassail!

Saturday 18 January 7:00pm Price: No Additional charges Come wake up our apples trees and wish them a bountiful new year with Lodestone Morris side, food and plenty of cider on hand.

Half term fun!

Saturday 15th to Sunday 23rd February, 12:00pm to 3:00pm Free event (normal admission charges apply) Crafts, activities and costume!

Come and have fun with us during February half term.

KNIGHTSHAYES COURT www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Family Fun whatever the weather

Saturday 15th to Sunday 23rd February 2014, 11:00am to 5:00pm Price: Child £2 Fancy a gander at golf? A dabble in croquet? Join us over the February half term as we aim to get up and going in the great outdoors. Find out about the unusual sports linking to Knightshayes in out trail and take the chance to give a couple of them a go. Round everything off with a locally sourced lunch in our café, as we do what we can to help you eat well, move more and live longer.

Family Bash & Burn day

© flickr/choffee

Tuesday 18th February, 11:00am Bring your kids and join the Woolacombe rangers at Mortehoe to clear the bushes which threaten the grassland flowers. We will then build a bonfire and use it to toast marshmallows. We will provide you with child friendly equipment and show you how to have fun whilst

www.familiesnorthdevonexeter.co.uk

© flickr/C.K.H.

15

What’s On

Out & About KILLERTON

www.nationaltrust.org.uk Saturday 18th & 25th January & 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd February, 9am - 10am A free 5K family event every Saturday for runners of all ages and abilities. It’s not a race but a timed run organised by local volunteers.

Register at parkrun.org/Killerton More Information: Killerton, 01392 881345, killerton@nationaltrust. org.uk

The Nature of Fashion, 2014 Costume exhibition © flickr/garryknight

Snowdrops and Cyclamen Saturday 1st February to Monday 10th February, 10am 5pm Come and see the gardens beginning to wake for spring with stunning displays of bright pink cyclamen and drifts of white snowdrops in the garden and chapel grounds.

Please ring to see when they’re in flower as it depends on weather.

More Information: Killerton, 01392 881345, killerton@nationaltrust. org.uk Free event (normal admission charges apply)

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Registered charity number 1153487 (England and Wales), Company limited by guarantee number 08570737 (England and Wales)

www.familiesnorthdevonexeter.co.uk

Saturday 15th to Monday 24th February, 11am - 3pm Discover how beautiful clothes are created from raw materials to catwalk fashion at Killerton’s annual costume exhibition.

See up close how stunning pieces have been embellished with stitches, dyes and prints in this year’s inspiring historic costume exhibition with a contemporary twist; with designs from Exeter College textile students inspired by the Killerton collection.

More Information: Killerton, 01392 881345, killerton@nationaltrust. org.uk Booking Not Needed, Normal Admission Charges Apply, Suitable for Groups Free event (normal admission charges apply)

CASTLE DROGO

© flickr/micurs

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Wild Tribe

Sunday 16th February Price: Adult £2, Child £4 Join the Wild Tribe at Fingle Bridge Meadows. Bushcraft activities for families with children of all ages from 5-12. Booking Essential

2014

Sunday 19th January, 2:30 pm 3:30 pm Dust off Christmas at greet 2014.

Help us wake up the trees in our orchard for our next cider crop in the Autumn. Bring something along with you to make a loud noise, featuring live music.

More Information: Killerton, 01392 881345, killerton@nationaltrust. org.uk Booking Not Needed, Normal Admission Charges Apply, Suitable for Groups. Suitable clothing for the outdoors in our orchard. Assistance Dogs only are welcome. Gates open: 11am Last admission time: 3pm

Killerton farmers’ and local produce market

Saturday 15th February, 10:30 am - 2:30 pm Browse and enjoy the many food stalls in the visitor car park, selling fresh and tempting local produce.

More Information: Killerton, 01392 881345, killerton@nationaltrust.org. uk Booking Not Needed, Dogs on leads welcome

Killerton parkrun

Wassail

We have taken every care in preparing the listings in this magazine but sometimes events are cancelled or times change, so please double check details before setting out.

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