Families Bedfordshire May-June 2013 by Families Magazine

F R E E

Bedfordshire Issue No.4

May–June 2013

Top tips for a perfect party! How to... garden with kids Win! £50 worth of gift vouchers Plus, what’s on in May & June

13,000 copies to parents & children aged 0–12 across Bedfordshire

CONTENTS

Bedfordshire EDITOR’S WELCOME Hello and welcome to the May/June issue of the magazine. We’ve got lots of useful advice to share with you about how to plan your child’s birthday party in our doublepage feature. Plus, there is plenty of information about all the new things that are opening up in Bedfordshire, including Jordans Mill, Jungle Jims and the newly renovated Bedford Higgins museum. Surely a good sign that the local economy is starting to move in the right direction? Our What’s On section is, I’m told, the part of the magazine that readers really value and keep close to hand. So, if you are planning any events that you would like us to include, then please get in touch by email at editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk or you can find us on Twitter or Facebook at @familiesbeds.

News & Information 3 Education news 6 Party feature 8 Health news 10 How to... garden with kids 11 What’s On: 12 in May & June

Finally, I’m delighted to confirm that from this issue we are increasing our distribution to 13,000 copies across the county. So a big thank you to everyone who has helped to make this happen. Best wishes,

Judith P.S. Our July/August issue will cover summer camps and activities, plus travelling with children. Copy deadline is Friday 7 June Available from Monday 1 July Editor: Judith Dow editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk www.FamiliesBedfordshire.co.uk Mob: 07889 894431 or phone: 01727 373929 Twitter: @familiesbeds Part of the Families® magazines group, established 1990. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned & operated under license. www.FamiliesOnline.co.uk Design: Cath Ranzetta Photo credits: Front cover courtesy of Claire Greenway http://clairegreenway.co.uk; pg 8 © Lauchlan Photography; © oksun70 – Fotolia.com; pg 9 © oksun70 – Fotolia.com; pg 10 © barneyboogles – Fotolia.com; © Arkady Chubykin – Fotolia.com; pg 12 © iloveboo.deviantart.com; pg 16 The Gnat and the Lion, Edward Bawden linocut, 1970 © The Edward Bawden Estate Families Bedfordshire is printed by The Manson Group (01727 8484440) on paper sourced from sustainable forests and the inks used are vegetable based. Distribution: We are printing 13,000 copies which will be distributed to selected points in Bedfordshire. For further distribution information please contact editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk. We take every care in preparing this magazine but the publishers & distributers cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers, the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences. Any original material submitted for publication is sent at owner’s risk and neither Families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

Bedfordshire

Opening 21st June 2013... ...get ready to explore

Edward Bawden (1903 – 1989) Aesop’s Fables ‘The Gnat and the Lion’ 1970, linocut © The Edward Bawden Estate

editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

NEWS & INFORMATION Child Safety Week

The Bluffer’s Guide to Fatherhood With Father’s Day coming up in in June, The Bluffer’s Guide to Fatherhood by Paul Merrill might be just what you are look for, whether you are about to become a dad or you already have children. It’s a spoof on many of the parenting guides that are already available. And as a father of three boys, Mr Merrill clearly has experience of what you should expect when plunged into the wonderful world of fatherhood.

This year it’s Child Safety Week from 24–30 June. According to research* undertaken by the people behind new blind cord safety device Cord Lock Away, while over 90% of parents were aware of the risks posed by continuous looped blind cords, almost 50% did not use a safety device to protect their young children. Sadly, 13 UK toddlers have died in the last two years as a result of blind cord entanglement. Ivor Seddon from Speedy Products, the company behind Cord Lock Away said: ‘It’s all too easy to think the worst won’t happen to you. It can take as little as 20 seconds for a child to die from asphyxiation with a window blind cord around their neck.’ The Child Lock Away safety wand is available nationwide from John Lewis, priced £5.50. *Speedy Products questioned 91 parents of children aged three and under in February 2013.

We particularly liked the following questions. Children instinctively know to which parent they need to ask different things. After all, as a father, you can’t be expected to know everything about everything all the time, can you? Or even some of the time? It is always good to know what to expect! Questions they ask Mum: What’s for breakfast? Where’s my school bag? Can I go to Chloe’s after school? When is rugby? When is my homework due? Where are my pyjamas? What can I have to eat? How do I top up my phone? Questions they ask Dad: Where’s Mum? The Bluffer’s Guide to Fatherhood: HowTo Fool People IntoThinking You’re A Competent Dad is published on 1 June 2013 by Thistle Publishing: www.thistlepublishing.co.uk.

Forest of Marston Vale opens new playground In March when snow was still on the ground (not THAT long ago!) the Forest Centre at Marston Moretaine revealed its new play area

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

which is now open to all! More info: www.marstonvale.org.

Price: £8.99 (paperback); £6.30 (e-book). ISBN: 978-1-909609-46-4

BEDFORD BOROUGH ENCOURAGES PARENTS TO CHOOSE REAL NAPPIES You may not be aware but Bedford Borough Council’s real nappy cash back scheme has a limited number of subsidies and is inviting parents and guardians who have not used real nappies to give them a try! If you are a parent or guardian living in Bedford Borough you may be entitled to £25 cash back from the Council when you spend £50 or more on washable nappies or laundry services. For more information on the cash back scheme or questions about washable nappies you can contact Bedford Borough Council on 01234 718060 or visit www.bedford.gov.uk/recycling.

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NEWS & INFORMATION Jungle Jims proves a success in Sandy Jungle Jims in Sandy is Bedfordshire’s newest play and party centre, aimed at 0–10 year olds. It opened its doors in March this year, and as Leeann Nicholls, who runs Jungle Jims confirms, they have had a great response from parents to its opening. They also offer parties and children will be able to celebrate and go wild in their new safe, clean, secure and fun Jungle with two level play frames and a separate area for smaller ones. From May, Jungle Jims are planning to offer a session for special needs children on the first Wednesday of every month, from 6pm onwards; they are also considering a similar session for siblings only. For more details phone 01767 682808 or go to www.junglejimsplayland.co.uk.

Children’s Allergy Clinic in Milton Keynes by Dr David Cremonesini, Consultant Paediatrician Clinics held at BMI The Saxon Clinic, Milton Keynes and Hinchingbrooke Hospital

IS THERE A CAPTAIN IN THE HOUSE? Bedford-born Tommy Balaam is the owner of the successful Captain Fantastic party business. Bought up in Potton, his family still live there and run a successful building company. Tommy himself tried his hand at the

Dr David sees all general problems and allergies: Immunotherapy for difficult hay fever Skin prick testing for eczema/asthma Food allergy testing/advice/ adrenaline pens Phone: 01487 814256 www.kidsallergy.co.uk

trade but then decided to take up a place at the East 15 Acting School. After leaving, he formed his party business in 2009 and has never looked back with the business now expanding into offering baby group sessions and theatre shows. Parties are booming with Gangnam Style still the most popular song for many younger and older kids, and Harlem Shake coming in a close second. With plans to launch a summer school later in the year, Tommy, who leads his seven other ‘Captains’, is a man on a mission: one to entertain! More info: www.captain-fantastic.co.uk.

T h e H i g g i n s B e d f o rd r e - o p e n s i n J u n e The transformed art gallery and museum, The Higgins Bedford is due to re-open on Friday 21 June, from dawn to dusk on the longest day of the year! Located in the historic buildings of Castle Brewery and the adjoining Victorian family home, both were built by the Higgins family in the mid-19th Century. The Higgins Bedford will bring together an internationally renowned art collection with a brand new visitor experience of national significance, that does justice to the stories behind the people, places and collections associated with both the former museum and art gallery. The £5.8 million project also

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features a hugely expanded floorspace for exhibitions, state-of-the-art modern facilities and the latest technology to enable people of all ages to enjoy the displays. The Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson, said: ‘The redeveloped Higgins Bedford belongs to us all, and I hope local people of all ages will come along time and again to enjoy what is on offer.’ With lots of events being planned for children and families over the summer, there should be something of interest for everyone. More info: www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk.

editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

NEWS & INFORMATION WIN WIN WIN! Gift vouchers worth £50 from the Creation Station Families Bedfordshire has teamed up with the award winning arts and crafts classes and party provider The Creation Station (www.thecreationstation.co.uk) to giveYOU the chance to win £50 worth of Creation Station gift vouchers.

BEDFORD • BUNYAN MEETING HISTORIC CHURCH • LIBRARY OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY • COFFEE SHOP & TRAIDCRAFT GOODS • PRE-BOOKED GROUPS & SCHOOLS WELCOME YEAR-ROUND

Museum Open

MARCH TO OCTOBER Tues - Sat 11am to 4pm (Closed Good Friday)

You can put them towards an Arty Party, or one of their hands-on weekly classes for children aged 4 months to 5 years, or on their online arts and craft store.

ENFR TREE Y

JOHN BUNYAN MUSEUM

Last admission 3.45pm

Contact

t. 01234 270303 e. curator@bunyanmeeting.co.uk www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk/museum

An inspiring story set in extraordinary times Find us John Bunyan Museum, Bunyan Meeting, Mill Street, Bedford MK40 3EU

And as your child’s birthday is the most important day in the world, you want to give them a unique and memorable day and make life easy for yourself too! You can rest assured that with over 100,000 children already inspired by this awardwinning children’s activity business, their leaders are experts in ensuring your child, their friends and you, enjoy an entertaining, inspiring and totally fun party. Competition question: At what age do Creation Station classes start? Enter online at: www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk/competitions by Monday 3 June 2013.

AN NABE L KA R MEL N EW BOO K Annabel Karmel MBE launches the first in her ‘Quick and Easy’ series: Quick and Easy Toddler Recipes in June. This 144-page full-colour recipe book has been designed to help hard-working families feed their children a healthy, balanced diet – in quick time! The book has over 100 delicious, nutritious, timesaving recipes packed full of natural flavour. Breakfast, healthy snacks, lunch and dinner all feature along with plenty of timesaving tips and tricks to encourage children to eat well and experiment with different sweet and savoury flavours.

National Young Writers’ Awards launched This year’s NationalYoung Writers’ Awards has now been launched. The competition, organised by Explore Learning, is now in its fifth year and will be judged by best-selling author Cressida Cowell, writer of the world famous How To Train Your Dragon series, which inspired the hugely successful DreamWorks movie. Children aged 5 to 14 are invited to write a 500 word short story on this year’s theme – ‘Around the World’. The competition closes on Monday 3 June. You can enter via www.explorelearning.co.uk/youngwriters or by picking up an entry form from the Bedford Explore Learning Centre (tel: 01234 365905). The winner will be presented their prize of a trip to Disneyland Paris for their whole family – and £500 worth of books for their school – by Cressida Cowell in June. Carey Ann Dodah, Head of Curriculum at Explore Learning says: ‘We’re very excited about this year’s National Young Writers’ Awards and anticipate it to be bigger than ever before. There will be regional winners selected and each child who enters will receive a certificate celebrating their efforts. Cressida and the team will be judging the entries on their creative approach, ingenuity and use of descriptive language – and of course taking into account age.’

With over 26 books and four million sales to her name, it’s safe to say Ms Karmel knows a thing or two about how to feed fussy kids!

The John Bunyan Boat

Quick and Easy Toddler Recipes (RRP £9.99) will be published by Ebury Press on 20 June 2013.

The John Bunyan boat, which is currently under construction, is due to set sail from Bedford in June. Commissioned by the Bedford & Milton Keynes Waterway Trust it will be available for river trips and party bookings. There will be four trips available; namely Kempston, the town lock, Cardington lock and finally, a longer cruise to the Anchor Inn, Great Barford.The perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon, messing about on the river with the family! For more info and to book: www.b-mkwaterway.co.uk.

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

Bedfordshire

EDUCATION

Get walking

Viewpoint

by Tom Barwood

‘There seems to be a growing idea amongst both parents and children that the only function of learning and school is to get a job and that, QED, the better the school the better the job will be. This style of thinking truly exasperates me.

Yes, it’s that time of year again. 2013’s Walk To School Week runs from 20–24 May, bringing together nearly one million schoolchildren, teachers and parents and promising to be the biggest and best yet! As part of National Walking Month, the campaign aims to teach children about the benefits of walking, with each day focusing on a different aspect of walking including safety, discovery, healthy, eco-friendly and social time. Take part in Strider’s 5-Day Walking Challenge and reinforce the benefits of walking, plus download puzzles, pledges and challenges at: www. livingstreets.org.uk/walk-with-us/walk-to-work-week-13-17-may-2013.

Radio stardom for pupils of The Meads, Luton

‘As director of La Petite Ecole in Bedford, I am frequently asked why we persist with French and don’t teach the more ‘economically useful’ languages. Apart from trying to point out that any language can be economically useful, depending on what you do with it, I am also keen to stress that my aim is ‘to get children to be confidently self-expressed in a foreign language’ and that we just happen to choose the medium of French to do it. Once you have the confidence that you can master one language, you will see others as easy meat. ‘My children attend a number of after school classes and clubs, to broaden their horizons and give them a more balanced perspective in life. In addition, I am not ashamed to admit that, even in our fashionably secular world, as a family, we belong to a church partly in the hope that my children will grow up with a faith which will act as a guide and moral compass in life, should they be faced with difficulties and we are not around to help. ‘I attended a talk on working with, and identifying, gifted and talented children recently and one of the ideas suggested by the speaker (the ex-head of a very prestigious independent school) was to take them to the ballet. I would take my children to the ballet – not in the hope that they want to become ballet dancers – but that they would see what sublime acts of grace and beauty can be developed by the positive aspects of human nature.

Year 4 pupils at The Meads primary school in Luton have become media stars after creating a new radio road safety advert for Luton Council. By winning a competition run by Luton Borough Council’s road safety team, they recorded their winning script live in Heart FM’s studios and took home a £500 prize for their school. The advert they created asks parents and pupils in Luton to consider alternative ways of travelling to and from school other than using a car and was aired throughout April. The winning entry asks: ‘Is congestion outside your school driving you insane?’ Suggestions include walking, cycling, ‘or a different route… you could scoot!’ ‘Two legs are better than four wheels,’ the pupils say, before ending with a plea: ‘Please help, we can’t do this alone. Congestion outside schools is putting children’s safety at risk.’ Photo (above): The Meads pupils – Patrick Gribben, Jackson Baldwin, Abinav Santhiramohan and William Abram.

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‘In the same vein, I cut out a Prison Service job advert recently and stuck it on the kitchen notice board. My wife asked if I was thinking of applying. The advert asked: ‘Are you confident, mentally strong and not easily intimidated?’. The reason I stuck it up is that these are some of the core qualities which I want my children to grow up learning, and I think it’s our job to foster this in them. ‘My point is that no-one knows what the future will bring. We have the capacity to learn so that we can survive. The best learner-adapters are the best survivors, whether that be economically or physically. I believe that by teaching children how to learn, un-learn and re-learn, they will develop the key skills to make them and future generations employable in the global market.’ Tom Barwood is director of La Petite Ecole Française (www.lpef.co.uk) and senior course provider of LikeMinds Consulting (www.likemindslearning.co.uk).

editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

EDUCATION GIVING CHILDREN A FIRST CLASS START First Class Learning runs classes in both Luton and Bedford as part of its 200 centres across the UK. Luton is run by Karim Kingsley, a former Sports teacher, whose classes are held in the Bushmead and Warden Hill Community Centres. She offers small classes in English and Maths, where she and her two assistants are able to help a range of children of mixed ages and abilities, aged four upwards, in preparation for their school Standard Attainment Tests (SATS), as well as helping those who may have learning difficulties and dyslexia. ‘Confidence is a major thing’, says Karim. ‘A child can be quiet and timid, but our aim is to get them to start talking.’

As part of its preparations to celebrate its 90th anniversary, Polam School in Bedford is appealing for its alumni and friends of the school to come forward and share any memorabilia, photographs or even old school reports to help illustrate the institution’s 90 years of service to its community. Morning Maths classes at schools, from 8am onwards – a bonus if parents need to drop off their children before school starts. While in Bedford, Andrew Turpie returned to his home town to set up his classes last summer. He emphasises the need to go back to a traditional way of doing things with pencil and paper and is seeing a big demand for tuition services, as well as one-to-one help. To contact either Karim or Andrew, visit the First Class Learning website: www.firstclasslearning.co.uk.

The reasons why parents send their children to a tuition class may be varied. Karim says for some it is to: ‘Consolidate [their knowledge] and get them to the top of their class’, while others ‘...are looking to get their children into the grammar system... parents are much more aware of scholarships into private schools.’ But she also says that it is up to parents as to how much additional work their children take on. ‘Parents can adjust their programme; it is their decision [the parents] – they can advise us, and it is not set in stone.’ Karim offers a two week free trial at her classes in Luton. She is also starting up Early

POLAM SCHOOL CALLS FOR MEMORIES

Pictured: (left) Daniel, age 11, Year 6 Bramingham Primary School (above, top) Enam, age 8, Year 3 Bushmead Primary School (above) Kishan, age 10, Year 6 Ashton Middle School

The school has issued an open invitation for anyone wishing to contribute to visit the school and share their personal memories and stories of their own experiences of Polam School which they can do via their Facebook page. Phillipa Villa, head teacher of Polam School, said: ‘I am delighted with the level of enthusiasm our pupils have shown at the prospect of learning more about their school’s history though the memorabilia. Our aim at Polam School is to inspire and encourage a spirit of enquiry and exploration.’ A week of celebrations beginning on 10 June will mark the anniversary and the school’s flag will be raised for the first time in over a decade. During the week-long celebrations Polam School pupils will welcome guests to tour their school and visit the exhibition of all donated and loaned memorabilia. They will culminate in a celebratory garden party which will be held in the school’s grounds on Saturday 15 June. The day’s events promise to provide a range of activities for children and adults alike. More info and to book tickets: www.polamschool.co.uk/90th.html.

Luton Prep School due to open in September Dr Christiane Fisher, the owner of Acorn Day Nusery in Luton, is planning to open a new Preparatory school this autumn, subject to OFSTED approval. It will be based at the same site as the Nursery. Dr Fisher, who has a PhD in brain research, has been running the Acorn Nursery for several years now.

size, and to attract pupils from across the southern Bedfordshire region.

The new school hopes to offer three classes across Key Stage 1, all of which will be small in

Photo (right): Seven year old Arthur Standbridge. The boys in his photos are his dad and uncle!

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

For more details please contact Dr Fisher on: 01582 574390. www.acorn-nurseryschool.com

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PARTIES

IT’S PARTY TIME!

by Joanna Moorhead

A birthday party is the high point of the year for most kids – so the pressure is on to get it right. The secret, as ever, is in the planning. But how do you find out which party is right for your child? We guide you through the options.

The traditional party

What is it? An at-home for the birthday child and friends, with traditional games like pass the parcel (always a winner), pin the tail on the donkey,

The action party

What is it? Paintballing, go-karting, swimming, Go Ape etc. Who’s it suitable for? Older children (seven plus); kids with lots of energy

and musical bumps.

who enjoy racing around.

Who’s it suitable for? Great for nursery and reception age children, but

The pros: Your house remains intact; the kids have something to focus

don’t neglect its values for older kids, especially girls of eight or nine who

on, and lots of opportunities to let off steam; many children end up cov-

often enjoy nothing more than inviting their friends back to their house

ered in bruises from paintballing (though they don’t seem to mind!)

and having a girly time. Newly launched Primrose Parties in Bedford also

The cons: It can be very expensive; although some options, e.g. a swim-

caters specifically for girls aged 4–12 plus (www.primroseparties.co.uk).

ming pool party, trip to an adventure playground, can be good value.

The pros: It’s cheap (or at least, it certainly can be); other parents often

Sarah Elam at Polam School, Bedford, confirms this view and says: ‘For

stay to help you out, keep you company, especially if you promise a glass

an alternative way to celebrate a child’s birthday, a pool party can be an

of prosecco to help everyone through.

exciting, fun and affordable way to entertain larger groups of children.’

The cons: You may need to redecorate afterwards; you’ll certainly need

She adds: ‘Parents can relax knowing that all they have to do is turn up

to do a major tidy up. It can be difficult to keep your birthday child’s

and provide the food for the hungry kids. These parties are one of the

siblings out of the way, which could lead to conflict.

few that charge a flat fee of £100 for the 90-minute party, as opposed to a charge per head, making it an affordable option.’

Top tips to make it work:

1. If the activity is long and energetic it might be best to postpone a winter birthday party to the spring (the kids might get wet and cold as they’ll be outside for ages). 2. Take plenty of water, squash, snacks including fruit – they’ll need plenty of energy for all that running around. 3. Make ABSOLUTELY sure you’ve checked all restrictions, e.g. height restrictions, beforehand – there’s nothing worse than finding out on the day that one of your guests is too small to participate. 4. Make sure you get parental consent forms signed well in advance – the venue will require you to do this before they allow you in.

Top tips to make it work:

5. Ensure the kids wear any safety equipment at all times.

1. Agree ground rules with the birthday child beforehand about which rooms are in and out of bounds. 2. Have a timetable for what’s happening when. 3. Think about a project, e.g. build-a-bear kits, jewellery making, pirate games. Or consider bringing in someone like the Creation Station, who can provide bespoke arts and crafts parties, tailored to your child’s age and likes and your budget. (more info: www.thecreationstation.co.uk) 4. Give them a chance to let off steam in the garden. 5. For tea, spread a huge paper tablecloth on the floor and get them to sit around the edges of it. At the end, simply fold it up with all the rubbish inside and bin.

Bedfordshire

editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

PARTIES The church hall party

What is it? An indoor party in a hired venue, such as Trinity Arts & Leisure in Bedford (tel 01234 291777) or the Stockwood Discovery Centre in Luton (tel 01582 548600). Who’s it suitable for? Children of five plus, who are confident about being left somewhere they don’t know. The pros: A lot more space than they’d have if you were at home. The cons:You’ll have to leave the place spotless afterwards, and pay for any damage.

Top tips to make it work: 1. Try to find somewhere with outdoor space as well in case it’s a lovely day. 2. Ask if you can borrow/use playgroup play equipment. 3. Have lots of help, and have tea reasonably early in the afternoon so you can get it tidied away before the end. 4. If you’ve got the budget, consider hiring an entertainer – the extra

AND FINALLY... Whatever sort of party you’re having don’t neglect the party bags! Every kid, at every party, is secretly (or not so secretly!) longing for a party bag – and part of the excitement for your child is helping to put the bags together. Have a budget and stick to it – party bags can add hugely to the cost of a party – but try and limit the wasteful plastic toys that get thrown away immediately.

See our online Children’s Parties Section for more top tips at: www.familiesonline.co.uk/ourbestpartytips

8 low cost party bags ideas: www.familiesonline.co.uk/lowcostpartybags

Check out the Families Bedfordshire Directory of party providers: www.familiesonline.co.uk/LOCATIONS/Bedfordshire/Directory

space will make it a lot more fun. 5. Musical games, dancing, discos etc are great fun in church halls.

Introducing Bedfordshire’s New Indoor Play and Party Venue

The restaurant party

What is it? A meal-based party in e.g. a pizza restaurant, where the kids are allowed to help or watch in the food preparation. Who’s it suitable for? Older kids of 8–12; children who enjoy the chance

Jungle Jim’s Playland Ltd Celebrate and go wild in our new safe, clean, secure and fun Jungle with two level play frame and separate area for little cubs. Let us organise the best party with a hot or cold Jungle Feast. All parties have their own dedicated Jungle Ranger, Balloons on Sticks, Animal Face Masks, Party Games and more...

to meet and chat more than the chance to run around. The pros: At its best, it’s very civilised; you can even have a second table

BOOK NOW:

in the restaurant and invite some other parents along, so it’s a meal out

www.junglejimsplayland.co.uk

for you as well. Children enjoy a sense of being ‘grown up’ and eating out

Tel: 01767 682808

with friends. The cons: It’s expensive; raucous behaviour will upset other diners.

Top tips to make it work:

1. Make sure you’re booked for a time when the restaurant won’t be busy. 2. A restaurant near a park, where kids can run off a bit of energy afterwards, is a good idea. 3. Don’t rely on the pizza-making/chef-watching for absolutely all the entertainment. Bring e.g. colouring packs or check the restaurant will provide them, and think of some easy games to play round the table, e.g. I-Spy, in case things flag. 4. Make sure you sort out the cake arrangements beforehand; most restaurants allow you to bring your own (don’t forget the candles and matches). 5. Don’t limit yourself to chain restaurants – your local eaterie may well be prepared to accommodate your party, and may be more flexible than bigger establishments.

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

Primrose Parties in Bedford, offers your daughter a unique, creative party with the opportunity of making it truly bespoke and original. The parties include handmade costumes, fabulous inventive activities and creative crafts. Parties for Princesses ages 4–12+ To book or for more information, please call Hayley on 07989 329046. Email: primroseparties@virginmedia.com or online: www.primroseparties.co.uk.

Bedfordshire

HEALTH Little Steps Physiotherapy Alison Shipp & Erin Oakman

Children’s Physiotherapy Practice Covering Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire & Cambridgeshire

07961088392 / 07752088228

www.littlestepsphysiotherapy.com Email: littlestepsphysiotherapy@gmail.com

Chocolate-tea fun raises more than £400

COELIAC DISEASE: it’s more common than you think by Dr David Cremonesini, Consultant Paediatrician, BMI The Saxon Clinic, Milton Keynes Coeliac Awareness Week runs from 13–19 May this year. The disease itself is believed to be present in up to 1 in 100 of the population. However, only 10–15% of people with this condition are actually diagnosed with it. One of the reasons for this is because not everyone has symptoms, and in many people who do, the symptoms might be very general e.g. lethargy or tummy upset. It’s something parents often worry about and so is important to properly diagnose as the treatment (gluten free diet) can make a huge different to the child.

Chocolate-tea fever recently arrived in Bedfordshire, with resident Susan Izzard (pictured, with helpers) hosting her first Big Chocolate Tea Party for the charity The Sick Children’s Trust. The event, which took place at her home in Gamlingay during April, raised at least £400 for two houses in Cambridge – Acorn House and Chestnut House – which support families of sick children being treated at Addenbrooke’s hospital and the Rosie hospital. To join the campaign or to receive a Big Chocolate Tea Party Pack, go to: www.sickchildrenstrust.org. Email: chocolate@sickchildrenstrust.org.

The earliest time we might see it is in babies who have been weaned onto cereals containing gluten. There’s no way of knowing until a child has had gluten. Typical symptoms after starting gluten include: • bloated tummy • irritability • failure to grow properly when before gluten introduction was doing fine • anaemia. Some children have an increased risk of developing coeliac disease if there’s a family history of it or if they have diabetes or autoimmune thyroid disease. If you think your child has coeliac disease the first step is see your doctor and arrange a blood test. However, in order to do the test

the child must have been taking gluten every day for six weeks. The test looks for antibodies to gluten, and they might not be present if the child has stopped gluten, so a negative test while off gluten might be falsely reassuring. If you feel you don’t want to restart gluten yet are sure your child has coeliac disease, then you need to speak to your doctor about it. It is ok to keep off gluten, but after a time reintroduce it and see how the child is. Such symptoms might be due to an intolerance that your child outgrows. Coeliac disease however, is a lifelong diagnosis, which is why proper and accurate testing needs to be done to confirm it. Without positive testing, your GP might not prescribe you gluten free products, so the six week challenge is worth doing if your child copes with it. If the blood test is positive, some children might need a biopsy from their gut to confirm it. This decision will be discussed with a paediatric gastroenterologist and normally is arranged if there is any doubt in the diagnosis. Treatment is a gluten free diet and you should see a dietician for advice and ongoing follow up. For more information visit: www.coeliac.org.uk.

Could you tell if your child had a problem with their eyesight? Bedford mum Fiona Cowan says: ‘I certainly didn’t realise so with my son. Three years ago when my son was in Reception, I was called over by his teacher at pick up time and was advised to take him for an eye test as he had commented that he couldn’t see the whiteboard. ‘When I took him to the optician indeed he did have a problem, but they would only prescribe glasses at half the strength required as the full prescription would have been too much of a shock for him. We were then referred to the Hospital’s Eye Clinic for a more detailed examination where they prescribed full strength glasses. ‘When I first knew he would need glasses, I decided that if the NHS glasses were as bad as the ones that I remembered friends at school

‘My son now has his sight checked every six months at the hospital, with new glasses prescribed once a year. He knows he will never be able to be a pilot due to his eyesight but he can now see as well as any other eight year old. ‘I do often wonder whether if his poor vision had been noticed earlier and glasses prescribed then his vision would not be as bad now, but I will never know.

having, then I would pay for better ones. When we looked at the frames available free on the NHS, I was amazed at how nice they were and to this day we have never had to pay for a frame. We have paid for a pair of prescription swimming goggles so that his vision is not reduced for swimming.

‘Children have their eyesight tested in Reception year at school and it is then your responsibility to get it checked every year at an optician. Certainly I will always make sure my children have their eyes tested every year.’ More info: www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Hearingand-vision-tests-for-children/Pages/Why-it-isnecessary.aspx.

editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

HOW TO... GARDEN WITH KIDS

by Elizabeth Dolton

How to get the kids to grow things

As we reach for the back door, or open a window for the first time in several months, we may spot a daffodil emerging through the cold hard ground, and just maybe the first sight of blue sky overhead – what better time to encourage your children to explore their environment and discover the world of gardening. Involving children in gardening can be a great and fun experience for everyone regardless of age. Children can really get engrossed in planting and caring for flowers – even those with shorter attention spans! Most kids can’t get enough of the anticipation and excitement of waiting for a seed to sprout or a plant to grow, even making mud pies, as all children find pleasure in a patch of soil they can call their own. Imagine sparking the green fingers of little children, as you point out the wonder of the natural environment around them. And what better way to learn about photosynthesis, by watching it happen in front of your eyes! Show your child the magic of Mother Nature. You don’t have to be green fingered yourself, gardening opens up a whole host of great experiments and different ways of looking at things, almost like having your own laboratory in your kitchen. A good idea to show how plants need time to grow, lots of sunshine and water is to grow three separate pots of cress. Place one in sunlight with plenty of water, one in a dark cupboard with plenty of water, and one in sunlight with no water. The difference will be there to see.

Inspire their senses

We all have a particular fondness for plants which stimulate our senses and children are no different; point out plants with soft leaves and bright flowers, aromatic herbs, scented flowers, grasses and leaves that rustle when blown, etc. These can be particularly beneficial for children with special needs and requirements.

Getting Started

Gardening doesn’t require a huge garden or allotment; in fact, it can actually be beneficial to start out with smaller spaces such as a window box or a restricted area. Just ensure that the allocated area gets enough sunlight and start with a small, manageable project. It needn’t cost a lot of money either – you don’t need to buy anything special or fancy, and if you grow your own fruit and veg then you’ll ultimately be making a saving! Start with margarine tubs, yoghurt pots, and any other small containers you might find lying around the house. Instead of fancy trays with separate sections, you’ll find just as much use in empty egg cartons. A lollypop stick can make a great plant label and can be used when dipping out seedlings. And what about a water pistol instead of a watering can. Who would have thought watering the plants could be so much fun!

Opportunity to learn

There is so much for children to learn. Explain to younger children that the seeds have popped underground and been covered up to sleep, helping them understand that they need to be gentle with them and treat them with care. Make sure they know to water regularly and then sit back and watch it grow.

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

Plants attract wildlife, which can be hugely exciting. Wildflowers attract bees and butterflies, and watch out for the insects. All of them have a purpose in the garden, for example hedgehogs and toads eat the slugs and snails, and worms create holes in the soil. Kids will eat anything they have grown themselves, just try with peas, cabbage and lettuce. Sheer pride will lend a flavour never to be forgotten. They will realise that whenever they eat yummy fruit and vegetables that someone had to grow them and that we can all grow our own fresh foods.

Prepare for mess!

Gardening isn’t a clean business but its lots of fun and easy enough for children to get to grips with. So peel your children away from the TV and explore the garden – touch the flowers, feel the leaves, and look for bugs. Once they get in the garden and explore, in time they will want to take care of the plants they have learned to love and really gain pleasure along the way.

Enjoy!

We recommend The Family Kitchen Garden by Karen Liebreich, Jutta Wagner and Annette Wendland (14 May 2009).

Bedfordshire

WHAT’S ON Please always phone before

OPEN MORNING

setting out in case details have

Saturday 11 May, 10am

changed since press deadline or

Bedford School,

if we got it wrong.

De Parys Avenue, Bedford Tel: 01234 362200

Please send events to be listed to:

or www.bedfordschool.org.uk.

editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk DAWN CHORUS FOR

MAY

Forest of Marston Vale

CREATION STATION

Marston Moretaine, Bedford

Tuesday mornings, 10.30am

Find out all sorts of amazing

LATE RISERS ! A BIRD WALK Saturday 11 May, 7–10am

The Scout Hut, Marston Moretaine

things about the spring migrants

Friday mornings, 9.50am & 11am

X FEST

BLUEBELLS & SPRING BIRDS

and residents that are burbling

Flitton and Greenfield Village Hall

4–6 May

Saturday 11 May, 11am–1pm

away in the Country Park.

Weekly events for pre-school

Santa Pod Race Course,

RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy

Meet at Forest Centre Reception.

children.

Airfield Road, Podington,

This walk will show the reserve at

Tickets £3; £1 reduction for

To book: email louiseplatt@

Wellingborough

its best, as the trees are blooming,

children, concessions, volunteers

thecreationstation.co.uk

For fans of in-line skating, skate-

flowers are blooming and birds are

and members.

or call 0844 854 9178.

boarding, BMX’ing, scooters, and

singing.

Booking essential: 01234 767037.

mountain bikes!

Adults £5, RSPB members £4,

More info: www.xfest.co.uk.

children £3, RSPB Wildlife

MIKE THE KNIGHT

Tel: 01767 680541.

MID BEDS NCT ! ‘BUMPS, BABIES AND BEYOND’ Wednesday afternoons, 1–3 pm

Explorers £2

Flitwick Village Hall

AT MEAD OPEN FARM

Drop-in group for parents-to-be

Saturday 4 May

BRITISH ALPACA SOCIETY

and parents with babies.

Mead Open Farm,

NATIONAL SHOW

NCT breastfeeding counsellor

Stanbridge Road, Billington

11–12 May, 10am–4pm

available during term time.

Children’s TV favourite Mike The

Bury Farm Equestrian Village,

Suggested donation £2 per week.

Knight will be making a special

Slapton, Mill Lane,

Refreshments provided.

visit to Mead Open Farm!

FOOTBALL FUNDAY

Included in entry price.

Saturday 11 May,

A fantastic funday in aid of the

nr Leighton Buzzard

LITTLE LAMBS CLUB

www.meadopenfarm.co.uk

10.30–11.30am

educational charity Amantani.

Every Thursday 10am–12noon,

or call 01525 852 954.

Barton Library

Free.

Free football activities.

www.buryfarmestates.co.uk

term time only Dunstable Downs,

INDIA COMES TO

Chilterns Gateway Centre,

BEDFORDSHIRE AGAIN!

Whipsnade Road, Dunstable

5–6 May

Enjoy a chat with other mums as

Page’s Park Station, Billington

the kids enjoy some creative play!

Road, Leighton Buzzard

Suitable for children under 5yrs.

The Leighton Buzzard Railway

Small donations for material costs

and the Darjeeling Himalayan

are welcomed.

Railway Society will join forces

PRINCE & PRINCESSES

gauge railways of India.

again to pay tribute to the narrow4–6 May

Tel: 01525 373888

Thurleigh Farm Centre,

or www.buzzrail.co.uk.

Cross End, Thurleigh www.thurleighfarmcentre.co.uk

Bedfordshire

editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

WHAT’S ON STEAM FAIR

TODDLER TIME

& COUNTRY SHOW

Friday 17 May,

11–12 May, 10.30am–5pm

10–11am & 12–1pm

Stotfold Mill, Mill Lane, Stotfold

Stockwood Discovery Centre,

Fun fair, arena displays, steam

London Road, Luton

engines, milling and more!

Fun and creative activities.

Adults £6; children 4–16 & senior

Aged 3–5 years; Free.

citizens £3; under 4s free.

Booking: 01582 548600.

www.stotfoldmill.com THE SNOW QUEEN SUPERHEROES & FAIRIES DAY

Saturday 18 May,

Saturday 11 May

2pm & 6.30pm

Snakes and Ladders,

Luton Library Theatre

Blackburn Road, Houghton Regis,

5+ years. Kumar’s friend embarks

Dunstable

on a journey to rescue him from

with some fun activities for the

Kids under 16 go free!

Tiny Tinkerbells, budding Batmen,

the Snow Queen.

children.

www.santapod.co.uk/e_main.php

and wannabe Wonder Women are

£5 children, £8 adults, £22 family.

Price: £1 per car; some small

invited for a day of magical fun.

www.lutonculture.com/

charges for activities.

BIRDS 4 BEGINNERS

Free entry with a Facebook voucher

luton-library-theatre

More info: tel 01767 680541.

Friday 24 May, 10am–3pm

fancy dress, from:

NCT NEARLY NEW SALE !

BUTTERFLY WALKS

Helping beginners to identify birds.

www.facebook.com/

DUNSTABLE & DISTRICT

18 May & 25 May, 11am–1pm

Bring a packed lunch.

snakesandladdersDunstable.

Saturday 18 May,

Meet at the Chiltern Gateway

Adults £5, RSPB members £4,

www.snakes-and-ladders.co.uk/

11.45am–1pm

Centre, Dunstable Downs,

children £3, RSPB Wildlife

events.html

Watling Lower School,

Whipsnade Road, Dunstable

Explorers £2.

Bullpond Lane, Dunstable

Fun, informative guided walk to

Booking essential: 01767 680541.

FUN DOG SHOW & ANNIVER"

Entry £1 per adult.

look for butterflies.

SARY CELEBRATIONS

For more info, email Nicola:

All tickets £2 per person.

MARVELLOUS MEAT"EATERS

Sunday 12 May, 12–4.30pm

nnsdunstable@gmail.com

To book: tel 01582 500920

25 May–2 June, all day

HULA Animal Rescue,

or tel 07904 315117

or email dunstabledowns@

Whipsnade Zoo, Dunstable

South Midlands Animal Sanctuary,

or 0844 243 6112.

nationaltrust.org.uk.

A week celebrating the Zoo’s

for adults accompanied by a child in

RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy

Glebe Farm, Salford Road,

carnivores.

Aspley Guise

STACK UK KITE

TEDDY BEARS’ OUTING

Dog show classes for all. Dog photo

COMPETITION

Sunday 19 May

competition. Charity bazaar. Fun

18 May–19 May, 10.30am–5pm

Leighton Buzzard Railway,

THE GRUFFALO

and games for children.

Dunstable Downs,

Page’s Park Station,

25 May–2 June

Free Parking. Admission: £2 adults;

Chilterns Gateway Centre,

Billington Road, Leighton Buzzard

Thurleigh Farm Centre,

accompanied children £1.

Whipsnade Road, Dunstable

Lots of bear-themed activities,

Cross End, Thurleigh

Tel: 01908 584000.

Kite Competition taking place over

competitions and displays, plus

Take one of the timetabled tractor

www.hularescue.org

two days, plus family fun week-

kids travel free if they bring a bear

trailer rides up to the Wacky Woods

end with craft stalls, fun fair.

and a fare-paying adult.

and help to become part of the

To book: tel 01582 500920

www.buzzrail.co.uk

or email: hularescue@tiscali.co.uk MUSEUMS AT NIGHT

or email dunstabledowns@

16–18 May, 5–9pm

nationaltrust.org.uk.

Wardown Park Museum,

www.zsl.org/zsl-whipsnade-zoo

Gruffalo story. Included in entrance price.

THE MAIN

www.thurleighfarmcentre.co.uk

24–27 May

Old Bedford Road, Luton

RSPB SPRING FAIR

Santa Pod Race Course,

Experience Wardown Park

18 May–19 May, 10am–5pm

Airfield Road, Podington,

Museum at twilight with fun

RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy

Wellingborough

family activities. Free. Small dona-

Treat yourself to exciting gifts,

Top level Drag Racing, plus fun for

tions may apply to some activities.

crafts, plants and produce along

all the family.

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

Bedfordshire

WHAT’S ON THOMAS THE TANK ENGINE

tumultuous times, with music and

KITES AND WINDSOCKS

Wendy Grant, accomplished fine

Saturday 25 May, 11am–12 noon

performance and lots of fun for all

Tuesday 28 May, sessions at

art photographer, has donated her

Kempston Library

the family!

10–11.15am, 11.30am–12.45pm

services to provide images for

Stories and crafts for all the family.

Adults £10, concessions £9,

& 1.30–2.45pm

informational material and

children £6, families £26.

(20 children per session)

publicity for this adoption charity.

WIMPY KID

www.english-heritage.org.uk/

Forest of Marston Vale,

More info: 01908 572700 or email

HALF"TERM COMPETITION

wrest-park

Marston Moretaine, Bedford

a picture with your contact details

Make your own kite or windsock

to enquiries@sfcs.org.uk.

Saturday 25 May Barton Library

SAM TASTIC

out of recycled materials. Then

Design your own cartoon strip and

AT MEAD OPEN FARM

bring it on a test flight or flutter in

CIRCUS WORKSHOP

Wimpy Kid character. Best entry

27–31 May

the park.

Tuesday 28 May, 2–3pm

wins a prize.

Mead Open Farm,

£3.50 per child. All children must

The Rufus Centre, Flitwick

Stanbridge Road, Billington

be accompanied by an adult.

Aimed at children aged 6–10

ROBIN HOOD AND HIS

Children’s entertainer Sam Tastic

More info or to book:

years. Have a go at lots of different

VERY MERRY MEN

will be at Mead Open Farm with his

tel 01234 767037 or email

circus skills. From plate spinning to

Saturday 25 May, 2pm

fantastic shows! Lots of games,

anna.charles@marstonvale.org.

tub stilts and other balancing

Luton Library Theatre

amazing balloon modelling, high

4+ years. An exhilarating, interac-

energy fun and crazy dancing as

ONCE UPON A TIME…

Tickets: £5.50, incl refreshments.

tive family adventure featuring live

well. Included in entry price.

Tuesday 28 May, 2.30–3.15pm

Pre-book on 01525 631900.

music and puppetry.

More info: 01525 852 954 or

Sundon Park Library

£5 per child; first adult free,

www.meadopenfarm.co.uk.

Wednesday 29 May,

CAPTAIN UNDERPANTS

skills!

11–11.45am Lewsey Library

Wednesday 29 May, 3–5pm

www.lutonculture.com/

AWESOME ARCHAEOLOGY!

Thursday 30 May, 11–11.45am

Wootton Library

luton-library-theatre

28–31 May, 11am–4pm

Marsh Farm Library

Fabulous Captain Underpants fun for everyone.

£6.50 additional adults.

Wrest Park, Silsoe

Thursday 30 May, 2–2.45pm

INTERNATIONAL KITE

Let the kids get stuck into history

Luton Central Library

FESTIVAL

with the chance to uncover clues

Thursday 30 May, 2.15–3pm

BE A PRINCE OR A PRINCESS!

25–26 May, 10am–6pm (Sat) &

and handle artefacts. Take part in a

Leagrave Library

Thursday 30 May,

10am–5pm (Sun)

sand pit dig to unveil secrets from

Friday 31 May, 3.30–4.15pm

8.45am–12noon (£5 per child) &

Russell Park, Bedford

the past. Plus plenty of hands on

Bury Park Library

2–4pm (£3.50 per child)

Kites from the four corners of the

activities.

Saturday 1 June, 11–11.45am

The Rufus Centre, Flitwick

world; together with adult and

Adults £8.80, concessions £7.90,

Stopsley Library

Make your own crown to wear at

children’s workshops in the

children £5.30, family ticket £22.90.

Saturday 1 June, 2.15–3pm

the Coronation Celebration on

marquee.

All children are welcome to join in

Wigmore Library

2 June, hunt for the Queen’s

www.bedfordevents.co.uk

the Time Travellers Go… events. An

Tales of Jack the Giant Killer, and

treasure, crafts, games, biscuit

additional £1 will be charged on

other fairytale favourites, with

decorating and more!

standard admission for every child,

crafts and games.

Pre-book on 01525 631900.

Sunday 26 May, 12–6pm

member and non member.

5+ years. Free. Drop in.

Starts: Wardown Park,

www.english-heritage.org.uk/

www.lutonculture.com/

WHAT’S THAT WARBLER?

Old Bedford Road, Luton

wrest-park

luton-library-theatre

Thursday 30 May, 10am–12noon

THE ELEPHANT BRIDESMAID

ST FRANCIS’ CHILDREN’S

Listening to the songs of the

Tuesday 28 May, 2.30pm

SOCIETY PHOTOSHOOT

warblers that breed at The Lodge

WREST AT WAR!

The Grove Theatre, Grove Park,

Tuesday 28 May, 10am–2pm

and giving tips on how to identify

26–27 May, 11am–5pm

Court Drive, Dunstable

Woolstone, Milton Keynes

them on this walk around the

Wrest Park, Silsoe

The Elephant Bridesmaid is a

Milton Keynes families are invited

reserve.

Experience the theatre of war from

musical about weddings and

to spend a few hours doing a

Adults £4, RSPB members £3,

all quarters at Wrest Park. From

wombats and the loveliest

photo shoot in return for some

children £3, RSPB Wildlife

WWI trenches to the WWII D-Day

elephant the world has ever known!

stunning family pictures to keep

Explorers £2.

landings, experience life in

www.grovetheatre.co.uk

forever.

More info: tel 01767 680541.

LUTON CARNIVAL

RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy

www.carnivalarts.org.uk/ Carnival2013.aspx

Bedfordshire

editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

WHAT’S ON STEAM ON THE MARSTON

CORONATION CELEBRATION

VALE LINE!

DAY

Thursday 30 May

Sunday 2 June, 12–4pm

The Buxton Spa Express day trip

Rufus Centre Field, Flitwick

stops at Bletchley and

Family fun as part of Flitwick

Bedford on its way to Buxton.

Festival 2013.

www.railwaytouring.net/

Fabulous food stalls, beer tent, live

uk-day-trips/buxton-spa-express

entertainment, children’s activities. Adult entry £1, children 50p.

WIMPY KID CHAOS Thursday 30 May, 3–4pm

KEECH SUPERHEROES

Toddington Library

RUNNING EVENT

Fabulous, free Wimpy Kid fun for

Sunday 2 June, 11.30am

everyone.

Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road, Luton

A DAY TRIP TO THE ZOO!

train journey to Sheffield Park on

BEAUTIFUL BUTTERFLIES