Families Gloucestershire May June

FREE

May/Jun 2011 Issue No. 003

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

IN THIS ISSUE

Summer in the Saddle Parties Feature Parents Mean Business The Cotswold Chef What’s On

For families with young children aged 0–12 in Gloucestershire May June 2011 final.indd 1

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FGCIRCULATION

15,000 copies distributed through nurseries, schools, libraries, activity classes and other selected distribution points throughout Gloucestershire. If you would like free copies for your organisation please contact us.

CONTACT US Families Gloucestershire, PO Box 94, Dursley GL11 9AQ email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk web: www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk tel: 01453 544658 Facebook: www.facebook.co/familiesglos Twitter: www.twitter.com/familiesglos COVER PHOTOGRAPH Two Front Teeth Photography NEXT ISSUE July / August 2011 Advertising and Editorial deadline 1st June 2011 DESIGNED & PRODUCED BY Families Gloucestershire PRINTED BY The Manson Group, www.mansongroup.co.uk ADVERTISING Please contact us to discuss how we can help to promote your business within Gloucestershire.

Advertising rates start from £30.

Families Gloucestershire 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 licence. We take every care in preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

Paper used to print Families Gloucestershire is from fully managed sustainable sources - meaning trees which are felled are continuously replaced. Inks are soya based, which can be recycled.

FAMILIES GLOUCESTERSHIRE MAY/ JUNE 2011

FGCONTENTS

CONTENTS FREE

May/Jun 2011 003 Issue No.

ire.co.uk

www.familiesgloucestersh

IN THIS ISSUESaddle

the Summer in Parties FeatureBusiness Parents Mean Chef d The Cotswol

For families with

young children

aged 0–12 in

Gloucestershire

3–5 NEWS & INFORMATION National and local news & information 6–7 SUMMER IN THE SADDLE Family cycling in Gloucestershire.

Cycling together as a family is a real Gloucestershire pleasure.

We asked the county’s cycling specialists for advice.

8 - 11 PARTIES FEATURE: It’s Families to the rescue - we’ve put on our party hats to find the best suppliers around to ensure your ‘do’ is the one they’ll talk about, until at least next year...

8 - BRIGHT IDEAS FOR BIRTHDAYS Differing needs and interests of particular age groups 9 THE ICING ON THE CAKE Home-baked or pre-made, birthday cakes are the centre piece of every birthday tea!

10 LIFE IN THE XPRESS LANE The joy of herding cats ...and other thoughts on birthday parties 11 PARTY SERVICES A round-up of some local party suppliers 12 -13 PARENTS MEAN BUSINESS Do you want to achieve a better work-life balance without the 9-5 grind? We look as what people have already done, highlight some opportunities and also find out what support is available.

14 THE COTSWOLD CHEF Spring recipe ideas for Families from The Cotswold Chef. May and June bring with them the real start to Spring with lots of inspiring seasonal produce...

15–16 WHAT’S ON Listings of local What’s On Activities for May and June

For more articles, listings and competitions visit our website www.familiesgloucestershire. co.uk facebook.com/familiesglos twitter.com/familiesglos

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Wycliffe Nursery – French and Dance taught by specialist teachers Wycliffe Nursery, Preparatory, Senior School and Sixth Form Co-educational day and boarding from 2 – 18 years. Daily minibus service available.

For more information please call Wendy Robertson on 01453 820471.

Wycliffe, Ryeford Hall, Stonehouse, Gloucestershire, GL10 2LD

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk Wycliffe Families Magazine Gloucester.indd

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FGNEWS&INFORMATION

Family Friendly Music Festival

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ibley Music Festival takes place again on Saturday July 2nd (2-11pm), hoping to prove, yet again, it is the friendliest festival around. Ideal for families, the vast array of kids entertainment is nearly all free when you arrive. Prices are kept deliberately cheap with families in mind - £12 adult, £5 4-17yrs, under 4s free and the organisers ensure that the lovely food (thai, paella, local burgers, waffles etc.) and drink are kept at fair prices.

A volunteer organised and volunteer run event, they have managed to gain a real foothold on the festival scene attracting bands from all around the world. This year The Beat (ska legends with a load of top ten hits) are headlining with about 16 other acts many of which have national radio airplay and large festival performances to their name. If you are looking for a small, safe and friendly place to enjoy top quality music and keep your kids occupied all day check out www.nibleyfestival.co.uk

the generation games

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chance for everyone to get involved in fitness fun! Stroud District Council is excited to present The Generation Games; a chance for young and old to participate in a variety of sports and physical activities. The activities on offer are suitable for participants of all ages and are being put on by local clubs and helpers to introduce people within the Stroud district to new and exciting ways to stay active, improve their health and most of all have fun! Last year’s event was attended by nearly 200 people. All children and adults who take part will have the chance to try a range of alternative activities, including: • archery • trampolining • martial arts • sway dance • ultimate frisbee Bungee run and fitness challenge are also planned.

The event will take place on Sunday 12th June 2011 at Stratford Park Leisure Centre. The cost is £3.50 per child and £5.00 for adults.

Application forms available from www.stroud.gov.uk or by calling 01453 754508. The closing date for entries is Monday 9th May 2011

Buddies on the net A new online resource has been set up for parents of special needs children: www.netbuddy. org.uk provides hundreds of practical tips and simple yet ingenious solutions to everyday issues encountered by parents, carers, teachers and therapists working with learning disability.

From brushing teeth to managing challenging behaviour, Netbuddy lists over 850 practical tips and suggestions from people with first-hand experience of special needs, with the tip count growing daily as more people contribute.

“The idea for Netbuddy came about when my son was small,” says Deborah Gundle, director of www.netbuddy.org.uk and mother of a son with profound learning disabilities. “I spent so much time and energy solving day-to-day problems which I felt sure other people had overcome before me. Then one day it came to me – I should start writing down my ideas for other people to use, and encourage them to share their own. ”The tips on the site are organised into easy-to-find sections – from everyday stuff such as sleeping and eating, to health and hygiene, managing behaviour and tips with help and support. “ People can come to Netbuddy for practical suggestions, they can talk to other people on the interactive forum and they can share their own ‘eureka moments’ within a community that understands and appreciates the hard work that has gone into those successes.”

Get a tip, share a tip, swap ideas on the forum and join a friendly learning disability community at www.netbuddy.org.uk.

Corinium Museum

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n January 2010 the Kids in Museums Manifesto was launched. The manifesto lists twenty ways to make a museum visit family friendly. Drawing on this document The Corinium Museum in Cirencester designed a questionnaire that was given to a group of local parents to complete after visiting the Museum with their toddlers to discover the areas in most need of improvement. A pre-school class from a local nursery were also invited to visit the Museum and their teachers were asked to make observations of the children’s interactions in the galleries to find out what they enjoyed doing.

Based on this research the Museum was able to make improvements which now include flexible family tickets, a picnic area for lunches during the school holidays to make a visit more affordable, more suitable interactives for under 5’s, and a permanent trail for under 5’s. The galleries now have children-sized tables and chairs and a reading corner up on the mezzanine with comfy chairs and cushions.

After making all of the changes in the galleries and fulfilling the criteria for the Kids in Museums manifesto the Museum entered the Guardian Family Friendly Award 2011. The Corinium Museum was shortlisted for the Award from over a hundred nominated museums by a panel of renowned museum experts, chaired by Jenny Abramsky, chair of the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Active start Active Start is a successful early year’s programme which provides fun physical activity. They strive to impact on children and family’s health, well-being, levels of physical activity and physical literacy.

Developing the skills of physical literacy are prerequisites for thinking, learning and interacting in personal, social and work contexts throughout life. These skills can empower and enable all children to fulfil their potential and access a whole range of valuable experiences in life as they continue their journey to become informed, responsible and healthy adults.

Active Start have been working closely with Children’s Centres, partner playgroups and schools since 2007. Active Start Coaches have considerable experience in delivering appropriate activities to different ages in local settings; therefore they are ideally positioned to support the transition from early years to school, instilling a life-long interest in participating in sport and physical activity.

As part of the developing Active Start programme they will soon be introducing a range of new opportunities that will focus on fun physical activity sessions for babies, toddlers, pre-schoolers and school starters. Watch your local press and see their website for details.

PARENTS, GRANDPARENTS AND CHILDMINDERS: Physical activity sessions where you play and learn together.

EARLY YEAR’S PROVIDERS, SCHOOLS, OUT OF SCHOOL AND HOLIDAY CLUBS: A programme of coaching, training & mentoring in developmentally appropriate physical activity.

BIRTHDAY PARTIES: A team of coaches who can deliver inclusive physical activity themed parties and events. www.activegloucestershire.org Sarah Urquhart 07876 038154

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

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FGNEWS&INFORMATION

Spring into Summer

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appyHopperz® are a collection of bright, inflatable animals that not only rival the space hoppers of the 1970’s but take the bouncing experience to a whole new level.

With ears or horns for children to grip on to and sturdy feet to steady the bounce, these colourful Hopperz come in a variety of different animals that give ‘Old Macdonald’ a run for his money!

Not only are these loveable toys fun to play with but they also help strengthen core muscles, increase balance control and also develop co-ordination skills.

Products such as Happy Hopperz® bouncers are used by physiotherapists & therapists as a rehabilitation tool and are also used to stimulate motor neuron systems - the foundation for developing skills such as memory, language, jumping and running. They are also brilliant as a pre-walker aid, encouraging crawling babies to work their leg muscles and take those wonderful first steps.

They can be inflated and deflated in a matter of seconds making them superportable.

So, play with them indoors or in the garden, or why not take them to the park.

Even better, deflate them and pack in your suitcase for a happy-bouncy holiday!!

HappyHopperz® are available Nationwide from £19.99 at www.argos.co.uk as well as independent toy stores and www.happyhopperz.co.uk

Competition Winners!

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AC T !

FOR AGES 4-18YRS

CE! ACT !

AN

E!

PERFORMING ARTS WORKSHOPS

SING! D

ongratulations to the winner and runners up in our Front Cover Competition in partnership with Two Front Teeth Photography (Jan/Feb issue).

The Winner was Becky Hearn and the runners up were Tina Mitchell, Michelle Minchin, Rebecca Parker, Caroline Agg and Tessa Hughes. Enjoy your photoshoot sessions and we’re sure you’ll love the photos!

N G ! DA N C

Work with Performers from shows such as: HAIRSPRAY, LES MISERABLES, MAMMA MIA, FAME and teachers from PINEAPPLE STUDIOS LONDON. Be inspired, grow in confidence and learn new skills.

·

Summer Schools 2011 1st-5th August in Stroud

With competitive prices and unrivalled access to amazing tutors, places sell out quickly!

Book early to avoid disappointment!

Contact us now for more information or to book a place.

t: 0845 519 6455 e: alice@shineonstage.co.uk

www.shineonstage.co.uk

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Little Monster Baby & Toddler Show

Gloucester - Sunday 12th June 2011

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ollowing the success of the Little Monster Baby & Toddler Shows in Bristol and Cheltenham, mums Caroline Sparks and Sophie Mutimer are launching Gloucester’s own Little Monster Baby & Toddler Show - a one stop shop for everything related to maternity, babies and toddlers. Set to take place at GL1 Leisure Centre on Sunday 12th June 2011, the show will offer local parents fantastic shopping and the chance to pick up information and advice on pregnancy and childcare.

Already lined up for the show is a host of exciting exhibitors including specialist swim school Water Babies, Baby Safe Blinds, family business Eira Jaye who handmake bespoke soft slings, and the cost-saving retail store Costco. The show is being sponsored

by Gloucester-based Hugo & Holly Day Nursery.

As well as the exhibitors, there will be free face painting for kids and free taster sessions of local children’s activity classes to keep the little monsters amused!

Entrance is just £2.50 in advance or £3.50 on the door and accompanied children under 16 are free!

The first 500 families to arrive at the show will receive a free goody bag provided by local company Kids One Stop Shop, which will include free samples as well as relevant and local information. To book your tickets NOW visit www.little-monster.co.uk

Celebrate the summer at the WellChild Cotswold Summer Fair

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ith summer just around the corner why not treat yourself to a fantastic day in the Cotswolds at WellChild’s annual Summer Fair on Tuesday 17th May and Wednesday 18th May. The event is to be held at the beautiful Bourton House at Bourton-on-the-Hill and the stunning backdrop of the award winning gardens is sure to delight all those attending. Gates will be open from noon to 8pm on 17th May and 10am until 4pm on 18th May. More than 40 stalls from across the country will be offering gifts to tempt every taste from designer clothes and accessories to items for the home and garden, in fact everything that is needed to kit you out for a new summer season. A buffet lunch and refreshments will also be available and there will be talks and presentations on issues including planting, health and wine and cheese tasting.

Guests will also enjoy the rare opportunity of wandering around the stunning Bourton House Gardens which are a true reflection of Cotswold natural beauty.

Tickets cost £8 and are available at the entrance to the fair or from WellChild’s website www.wellchild.org.uk All proceeds will go to Cheltenham based children’s charity, WellChild. WellChild helps sick children and their families throughout the UK as they deal with the consequences of serious illness and complex conditions by focusing on three key areas - care, support and research.

The charity provides a team of WellChild Children’s Nurses who work with families to ensure that children with complex care needs can leave hospital and return home and, through its Helping Hands scheme, WellChild enlists the support of volunteers to tackle practical projects in the homes of sick children. In addition, the charity has invested more than £20 million in ground-breaking children’s health research projects.

Although WellChild’s work to support seriously ill children and young people takes place right across the UK, many of its activities and fundraising events take place in and around the Gloucestershire area due to the charity’s base being right in the heart of Cheltenham.

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FGNEWS&INFORMATION

foster caring C

ommunity Foster Care provides foster carers to Local Authorities and operates as a charity and social enterprise. This means they put all the money they receive into improving childrens’ lives.

Jan Selwyn-Shore, the Registered Manager, says “It’s not complicated to become a foster carer, you’ll need to be patient, caring, interested in the child’s education and well-being, sympathetic and dedicated. Community Foster care will support you every step of the way, providing training and 24 hour support as well as a generous financial allowance.”

Here are some of the carers’ stories: Wendy and Russell have looked after a number of children and young people over the past five years. They provide support to five children who live with their Mum and they look after one of the children each night of the week which helps Mum to manage better.

They think “fostering is fabulous” and find the rewards wonderful, seeing children and young people making small but positive steps and remembering little pieces of advice they’ve given them.

They have also looked after children on a long term basis and they stay in touch regularly, telephoning them and visiting with their own children.

Iain and Sue have been fostering for 32 years and in that time they have helped so many children they stopped counting when they reached 100. Their own four children were born into a fostering environment and over the years have had numerous brothers and sisters living with them before they moved on elsewhere.

The couple describe the young people they help as their “borrowed” children, because although they love having them around, they are always working towards a longer term goal, either to get them ready to go back to their biological parents or find a family to adopt them permanently.

Sue adds: “It’s about recognising that children come from all kinds of different backgrounds so it’s not a class thing. Basically all these children need is time. It doesn’t matter what age they are or what issues they have. Even with a group of siblings, every child is different.

What they need is someone who has the time and energy to spend with them, who has an interest in children and who cares. That’s all.”

To find out more about Community Foster Care or about becoming a foster carer, contact Jan on 01452 849301, via email info@communityfostercare.co.uk or visit the website www.communityfostercare.co.uk.

First Aid in Schools

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irst aid charity St John Ambulance is appealing for more schools in Gloucestershire to teach young people first aid by signing up to a new scheme to gain its Schools Mark award. It will be given to schools that train students through the charity’s Young First Aider programme.

More than 800 Gloucestershire schoolchildren were trained in the basic life saving first aid skills that can be the difference between a life lost and a life saved using the Young first aider pack last year.

The charity has recently teamed up with the musical Wicked to launch teachthedifference.org.uk, a free resource website to help schools teach first aid.

Jim Jones, Schools, Community and Youth Development Coordinator for Gloucestershire, said: ‘Children are never too young to learn the basic skills they need to save a life. They can be used at school, at home, or wherever they happen to be when an emergency strikes.

It also helps to improve self esteem as well as teamwork and communication skills. We would like to see more schools in the county showing a commitment to health and safety and first aid for both the students and the staff as well.’

For more information contact St John Ambulance on 01452 858220 or email jim. jones@glos.sja.org.uk.

The UK’s first rugby specific play programme for young children Rugbytots® is a weekly play session for children between the ages of two and seven.

Separated into three age groups, Rugbytots® combines the multiple skills used in rugby with a fun, energetic and structured play programme designed to enhance your child’s social and physical skills.

Whether the next step for your child is mini-rugby or ballet, Rugbytots® aims to provide the foundations which will enable them to progress with confidence.

All Rugbytots® classes are fully insured and will be run by an RFU qualified lead coach who is trained in paediatric first aid and has been CRB checked.

For further information please call

0845 313 3242

david@rugbytots.co.uk • www.rugbytots.co.uk

Special Offer from Cattle Country - Use this voucher for 5% off!

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attle Country in Berkeley, Gloucestershire is a great day out come rain or shine for children and adults too. Best known for its indoor and outdoor play equipment, Cattle Country has a whole range of things to do and many animals to see.Whenever the park is closed to the public, private parties can be booked for exclusive access to Cattle Country.

Two huge barns house giant slides and loads of soft play equipment. Outdoor activities include Britain’s biggest jumping pillow, the climbing net, a huge adventure castle, trampolines, ride on mini tractors, a willow maze, mini golf and a boating lake to name just a few.

A relaxing walk takes you past American bison, cattle and red deer and wallabies. Tractor and trailer rides in spring and summer take you right up close to the herd of bison. www.cattlecountry.co.uk or telephone 01453 810510.

5%OFF FROM 7TH MAY - 26TH JUNE 1 VOUCHER VALID FOR UP TO 4 PERSONS

Open Weekends, Half Term & Bank Holidays 2 huge indoor play barns Loads of animals to see including newborn chicks and 15 Old Spot pigs Oodles of outdoor fun Train rides through the park On site catering

FAM

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

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FGACTIVITIES

summer in the saddle Family cycling in Gloucestershire

By Rebecca Gardner

Cycling together as a family on a sunny Sunday afternoon is a real Gloucestershire pleasure.

Families Gloucestershire asked the county’s cycling specialists for advice for families – what to ride and where to ride it.

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highlight for many cycling families is a ride through the beautiful Forest of Dean but don’t take our word for it; the Family Cycle Trail was voted one of the U.K.’s top ten family cycle routes by The Telegraph newspaper. For up to 12 miles, families can cycle past the Sculpture trail, stop off to picnic and paddle at Cannop Ponds before heading to the café at Pedalabikeaway, the forest’s comprehensive bike hire centre. A choice of shortcuts means that families can select different sections, making a different day out each time. Build up to the whole thing as your family cycling skills and stamina improve.

If you’re aiming for that lovely day out in the Forest of Dean or elsewhere in Gloucestershire, you have a lot of choices to accommodate all ages and stages. What is a balance bike? A Tag-A-Long? Head to your local bike shop for good local advice.

Roylan Cycles in Cheltenham has been a local family business since 1959 – helping plenty of families with their first set of wheels.

In the first instance, of course, little ones are just there for the ride. “Whether you choose a bike seat attached to the bike or a trailer pulled behind, the child needs to be able to hold their head up – that’s usually from 12 months,” says Matthew Field, the current owner of Roylan Cycles along with wife Jane. Seats and trailers are still an option for even a small 5-year old.

Once a child is old enough to try cycling themselves, a relatively new trend is the balance bike – a bike without a chain or pedals for children as young as 2 years old. Simply scooting along with their feet teaches balance in preparation for the real thing. There’s much less, if any, need to add stabilisers to their first big bike. There’s also much less ‘holding the saddle’ back pain for adults. “Using a balance bike means that many people miss out the small 12” wheel bike,” says Matthew, “They start instead with a 16” wheel bike for 4 years upwards.”

Matthew recommends buying quality bikes. “The glitzier bike with gimmicky extras may seem like a good superstore deal ,” he says, “ but many children find them too heavy and are put off cycling. A good quality lightweight bike is a better option.” Check also that young riders can reach the brakes properly; cheaper bikes may not have adjustable brake levers.

Think quality for helmets too. “All helmets have to pass minimum safety tests,” says Matthew, “but better quality ones may fit better and be easier to adjust.” Be careful of passing on that battered old helmet – they should be replaced every 5 years as UV light degrades the plastic construction. And don’t forget helmets for adults, setting a good example and more importantly keeping everyone safe. Roylans has a great collection of penguin and pirate helmets but more reserved designs for grown-ups are available.

A good bike shop should advise you on the right bike for your child taking into account their height and also riding confidence; don’t just go by age. A confident 7-year-old might get on with gears straight away but some ten-year-olds may still not be ready for

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them. If your junior child is shooting up, ask about a bike that combines adult sized wheels with a small or extra small frame.

To find your nearest place for bike advice, take a look at Gloucestershire County Council’s website on cycling. As well as lots of useful advice on routes throughout the county, there’s a full list of cycle shops in Gloucestershire – both independent businesses and chain stores. More advice on bike types, including how to strap them to the back of a car can be found at www.whycycle.co.uk.

All this technology might leave you and your bank balance a little exhausted; all you want to do is go on a family bike ride with minimal hassle. Hiring bikes is a great way for getting started and also to try before you buy.

Colin and Bev Mortimer of Go-By-Cycle in Somerford Keynes have been renting and selling bikes for family bike rides for 14 years, helping families enjoy gentle, flat cycling along the cycle paths of the Cotswold Water Park. “We want people to be comfortable with whichever combination of bikes and trailers they need,” says Colin, “Come back if you’re not happy with your choice and we’ll change it.”

For those still relying on stabilisers, try adding a ‘Tag-a-Long’ when planning a family ride. Tag-a-Longs, or trailer bikes, have a seat and set of pedals but crucially just one wheel so they attach to the seat pillar of the adult bike, making a sort of tandem combination. Your backseat driver can pedal but don’t expect a lot of help. “We always suggest that the adult try them out first on our field,” says Bev, “then add the child when you’re comfortable.” Tag-a-Longs are suitable for approximately 4-years old and up; just right for non-cyclists who are too big for trailers.

Cotswold Water Park’s network of lakes and villages can be a little confusing for a casual visitor so Go-By-Cycle have made it all a lot easier. Firstly their hire centre is signposted all the way from the A419 dual carriageway. Secondly, Bev is a mine of information about the cycle paths and quieter roads that link together for a family cycle ride. Some lanes are even designated as ‘Quiet Roads’ with stone markers and logos to follow.

In Bev’s suggested short loop from the centre there’s something for everyone; look out for a beautiful Cotswold church, a field of ponies and more than one garden of ducks and geese as you cycle along the ‘Quiet road’ through Shorncote. Picnic on the beach at the Cotswold Country Park or have lunch at The Bakers Arm in Somerford Keynes with a delightful pub garden.

If you’re a little more confident as a bike riding family, get a copy of the park’s ‘Access Map’, found at tourist information points or available online. It lays out the water sport areas, village pubs and lakeside cafes linked by cycle lanes including National Cycle Route 45 which crosses straight through the park.

Route 45 is part of the National Cycle Network – created and maintained by volunteers

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from the charity, Sustrans. There are many national cycle routes that cross Gloucestershire detailed on the Sustrans website. Route 45 enters Gloucestershire just north of Tewkesbury and continues through Gloucester, Stroud, Cirencester and onto Cricklade; car-free where possible or linking quiet roads.

To try out a small part of this well-signposted route, park at the car park on Spine Road East under the red brick arches – you’ll know it when you see it. Northbound straight from the car park takes you past South Cerney Sailing Club and along a beautiful wooded path. Southbound across the road from the car park takes you to one of the area’s most unusual bird hides; look out for bat boxes in the octagonal Reed Hide. Finish with a picnic alongside the River Thames.

Of course, children love cycling for the independence to visit friends, ride to school or just explore. Their parents then need to have confidence that children have the skills to go out solo. It’s a reassurance then to know that the Cycling Proficiency Training is still a big part of Gloucestershire school life. 80% of pupils participate in the Level II Bike Ability training – usually undertaken in Year 6.

And has it all changed since you were a kid? Actually it’s all changed since last year. A much changed program is being rolled out during 2011. Don Muir, Cycling coordinator for the Road Safety partnership at Gloucestershire Council, explains the difference.

“Previously instructors would stand by the side of the road observing children cycling by,” he says, “Now instructors ride with the children. These small groups mean that they cover a wider area and range of traffic situations.” The aim is to ensure children are “able to take journeys on their own on quiet roads”; parents still need to judge the safety of their own part of Gloucestershire. After four days training, children receive a certificate showing skills completed with maybe a few discrete ‘Keep Practising’ stickers. Also included is a detailed description of your child’s performance and improvement tips.

This summer, look out as well for Family Cycle training, a brand new initiative also planned by the Road Safety partnership. “The way we teach children is very different these days,” says Don, ”so during summer term evenings, the whole family can learn together. Parents will go on the road with their older junior school child and an instructor.”

The program will even allow for younger children to be looked after at the school – so

Night Nannies

Sound advice and a sound night’s sleep for you and your baby…

Night Nannies (9pm-7am) and Maternity Nurses Short-term Childcare (Business trips, parents‘ breaks etc) Sleep Specialists - Encouraging good & resolving bad sleep habits (newborn and older babies) Overnight childcare specialists Night Nannies provide families with highly experienced nannies who will support you through the first stages of parenthood.

tel: 0117 9394845 email: camilla@nightnannies.com

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Quality childcare you can trust at Busy Bees in Quedgeley • Open 7am - 6pm, Monday to Friday • Individual fully equipped play areas • Freshly prepared, nutritious meals every day • CCTV and secure access • Fantastic outdoor adventure play garden • Full and part time places available

Come along and see our fantastic Adventure Garden!

Book a place for your child to play, learn and make new friends Call Mickie on 01452 725533 or visit Busy Bees Nursery, Merlin Drive, Quedgeley www.busybees.com

no excuses! Look out for information from your school shortly or contact Don and the team at Gloucestershire County Council.

For children really wanting to take their cycling further as a sport or hobby, there are plenty of choices. British Cycling, the official body for cycling as a sport, offers advice on the six cycling sports: Closed Road Circuit, Grass Track, CrossCountry Mountain Bike, BMX, Cyclo-Cross and Cycle Speedway. Their website also has a club finder section to find your local cycling club with a junior or U12 section.

Whether you have little ones at the back trying to keep up or older ones at the front almost out of sight, enjoy your cycling in Gloucestershire – a real family treat.

More Information Pedalabikeaway Cycle Hire www.pedalabikeaway.co.uk Go-By-Cycle Cycle Hire www.go-by-cycle.co.uk Roylans Cycle Shop www.roylancycles.co.uk Glouecestershire County Council (including bike shop lists) www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/ cycling Cotswolds Water Park www.waterpark.org.uk Sustrans (National Cycling Routes) www.sustrans.org.uk Why Cycle? www.whycycle.co.uk British Cycling www.britishcycling.org.uk All images courtesy of Sustrans - www.sustrans.org.uk Family with cycle trailer beside steam railway, Bristol & Bath Railway path - Nick Turner / Sustrans National Route 22. Family cyclists cross a wooden footrbridge on Isle of Wight - John Grimshaw/Sustrans Aire Valley cycle outing, Leeds and Liverpool Canal, National Route 66. (2003, Pedalling Picnic) - Andy Symes / Sustrans

Mark A. Musty General Garden Maintenance Firewood Supplies

01453 519621 Mob. 07923 446181

Family Lives is a leading organisation in the development and delivery of support for families. Do you have a little spare time in the day to help us help parents? Our volunteer programme offers: • Induction Training

• Opportunity to support others & meet new people • Support and supervision

• Presentation skills training • On-going training

• Reference after six months Contact our friendly team on 01453 768160 Parentline, free from landlines and most mobile networks: 0808 800 2222

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

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FGPARTIES FEATURE

Bright Ideas for Birthdays

by Robina Cowan DID SOMEONE SAY party? Yes, I’m afraid so. One thing’s as sure as eggs is eggs - your child WILL have another birthday in the next year.

I

t’s Families Gloucestershire to the rescue we’ve put on our party hats to find the best suppliers around to ensure your ‘do’ is one they’ll talk about, until at least next year...

Before you start It’s worth bearing in mind the differing needs, interests and numbers of particular age groups. Don’t feel the party has to last all afternoon - around two hours is enough, before everyone gets tired and emotional (not least the host parents). As a guide: One and two year-olds aren’t yet ready for a big affair. Most parents opt for a family get-together or a not too big buffet with a handful of friends with similar aged children. Enjoy it while you can - it’s a doddle to organise and sociable for the adults ((it has been known for babies to sleep right through while the grown ups catch up over nibbles)

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Three year-olds need planned activities. Name badge them on arrival then capture their imagination with simple ‘circle time’ singing and clapping games, or ‘dancing’ (ie jumping up and down to music). Balloons burst and it can all end in tears - hang them high as decorations rather than introducing them as playthings. The ideal guestlist for this age is around 8-12 children in a venue where they feel familiar - usually your home (sorry about that!)

Four to six year-olds enjoy joining in with traditional party games, such as Simon Says, Musical Bumps, Pass the Parcel, What’s the Time Mr Wolf, and Musical Lions (a favourite with parents, as the children have to be quiet, and still!). Allow space and time too for simply zipping around for a burst of unstructured play (which is where you’ll be thankful you blew up all those balloons). Plenty of engaging games and giggles keep things rolling, and if you’re hiring help, puppeteers, music-makers or storytellers are a good bet. A maximum of 20 guests at this age is about right.

Seven to nine year-olds are ready for more concentration and involvement in the party entertainment. Most are now old enough and skilled enough for arts and crafts (making their own goodie bag filler at the same time, which is jolly handy).

Alternatively, dancing, circus skills, drama or a team treasure hunt are good ways of harnessing energy - if you fail to plan they’re likely to fall back on that old favourite “who can scream the loudest?”

Ages 10+ and this worldly-wise lot is unlikely to want Mummy and Daddy embarrassing them by donning a paper hat and insisting on joining in (save it for when they’re reaching their teens - it’ll be SO much more fun for you). They’ll be wanting to do something special, such as bowling, karting, a mini disco in the living room, or a Glee style drama and singing workshop. Alternatively, a good bet is a jaw-dropping magic show, particularly when they can ‘help’. Hopefully too, by this age they won’t harangue the magician with “I know how you did that”, as I overheard recently.

Planning your party Crowd control: entertainers Bubbles, puppets, drama, music, ‘make’ party or magician? A good entertainer will bring your party to life and keep the children enthralled while you enjoy the fun from a safe distance. While there are parents who think nothing of timetabling two hours of games, entertaining other people’s children is not a breeze, which is where

expert help is well worth the investment.

TIP: Children’s entertainers generally have vast experience and contacts which you can tap into. Ask them about local venues for hire, a realistic timetable and suitable prizes as well as the entertainment itself. Find out their preferred age group, and the maximum number of children they will cope with - too many and you’ll not get the best out of them. Write down everything you’ve agreed together so there is no doubt on the day.

Take them out: venues It might feel less imaginative than an organised bunfight at yours, but do you really have the time, energy and creativity to decorate your house as a fairy or superhero den, then clear it all up four hours later? Thought not.

Happily there are plenty of places where all you have to do is pay the per-head charge and the guests will be entertained and fed, leaving you to return to your quiet, tidy house afterwards. Try child-friendly restaurants, bowling alleys, go-karting, indoor playcentres, sports clubs, the zoo, a pottery painting studio or cinema.

TIP: Book well ahead. There are only so many party groups venues can accommodate at any given time - you don’t want to be scratching around at the last minute and end up having to book ‘second best’.

Themed parties A great idea when your child has a particular interest, themes can be explored in many different ways. How about a drama, musical, circus or magic party, a sports party; or get crafty making bags, jewellery or cookies, or print t-shirts to match the theme.

TIP: Take the theme throughout the party - print off related pictures from the web as wall decorations, ask the guests to dress up with a prize for the best home-made hat.

Top tips

It’s all in the timing: For little children, 11am-1pm or 12-2pm are best. Most of them have been up since six and they’re past their best by the afternoon.

For older children a lunchtime slot or mid afternoon start will work Liaise with parents whose children have birthdays around the same time. If you both book the same day for a party, the guest list will be tricky. Joining forces is a much better idea - you can share the costs and the hassle Keep the food simple and don’t over cater.

Most children are too excited to have a big appetite.

Limit the junk food and remember some children maybe vegetarian or have a food intolerance Sleepovers: come midnight, you’ll be regretting it...

Planning ahead is KEY. Read our ‘been there, done that’ parent’s guide: go to www.familiesonline.co.uk and type ‘successful sleepovers’ into the search box.

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

4/13/2011 4:29:31 PM

FGPARTIES FEATURE

The Icing on the Cake!

Whether it’s home-baked or pre-made, birthday cakes are the centre-piece of every birthday tea party! Adorned in sprinkles and glowing candles, birthday cakes and blowing out the candles, are the most memorable moments of a child’s birthday celebration.

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any years ago, most birthday cakes consisted of a plastic ‘Happy Birthday’ a footballer or a ballerina, and some decorative icing. Today, the possibilities are endless; you can have a cake shaped like a princess, a car, you can have a photo printed onto a cake; it seems whatever you child would like or can conjure up in their ideas, it’s possible!

Birthday cakes no longer need to be ordered from a bakery. Supermarket bakeries are ideal for last minute birthday cakes, with lots of different shapes and sizes, and character cakes, all on a budget. Some of the larger supermarkets may also offer cake personalistion. If your child or their party guests do suffer from food allergies and intolerances,it is advisable to check the cake’s ingredients, as well as preservatives, to prolong shelf life, the cakes are often made in large bakeries, whether ingredients such as nuts may be present..

If budget and time are not constraints, or your child has their heart set on a ‘Peppa PigTM’ and ‘Buzz LightyearTM’ collaboration, then contact your local bakery; they tend to have portfolios of previous work to give you some ideas, and will be able to advise on ingredients, decorations and flavours, baking your cake specifically to your order.

For a family affair, why not consider baking and decorating your child’s birthday cake

yourself, all you need is a little imagination and lots of fun.

It is very easy to buy a birthday cake, but you’ll love the satisfaction of baking the cake and decorating especially for your child. As your birthday cake will be home-made, you can ensure that you cater for any food allergies and that there are no preservatives. If time is of the essence on party day, you can always make the cake a couple of days in advance, and decorate the night before.

When it comes to recipes, there is a wealth of information online, or within the baking section of your local bookshop.

If you are not confident in your recipe, you can use a box cake mix; these are available in many different flavours, and some include just about everything you might absolutely need. If your child has have a specific request for their favourite flavour or combination of flavours, why not involve them in making their own cake; they’ll be so proud of their achievements.

With the increase in popularity of home-baking, speciality cake tins and decorating supplies, are more easily available than before. The supermarkets now carry a large range of decorations, colours and icings, and sugar-craft shops and online stores, enable you to purchase specialist decorating equipment. You don’t have to be an experienced pastry chef to make a unique birthday cake for your child.

Finally, why not bring the birthday cake to the party in a different way. Children love to decorate cakes, so why not arrange for part of the their birthday party to be decorating the cake. Set out bowls of sweeties, sugar decorations and icing pens for the birthday boy or girl and party guests to decorate the birthday cake with. Alternatively, instead of baking one cake, cupcakes are the perfect size for each child to decorate and take home in their party bag... just be prepared for cakey chaos!

Louise Land Cirencester Cupcakes, Swan Yard, West Market Place, Cirencester, GL7 2NH www.cirencestercupcakes.co.uk 01285 644 994

Family Portrait Photography

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The springboard to confidence for your child Tumble Tots is Britain's leading National Active Physical Play Programme for children from 6 months to 7 years ◆ Using specifically designed equipment your child will learn agility, balance, climbing and co-ordination skills appropriate to their age ◆ A structured programme designed to build self confidence and develop essential listening and language skills ◆ Supervised by trained staff in a fun and caring environment

For your nearest Tumble Tots centre call CATHERINE BYRNE 0844 984 0338 www.tumbletots.com

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FGPARTIES FEATURE

Life in the Xpress Lane...

The joy of herding cats...and other thoughts on birthday parties Elizabeth McMahon’s musings on a life where you’re always in a rush, have to serve yourself and are frequently let down by technology

T

he guilt of a working mother is demonstrated in a variety of ways. Whether this is an absolute insistence that we have non-stop FUN and stimulating educational play at the weekend, or an overwhelming urge to purchase volumes of branded merchandise that no one would ever want, need or play with for more than 5 minutes.

The toy shop sees me coming… 5,000 Thomas the Tank Engine stickers? They’re essential. A plastic pirate sword? Give me 3. A Roary umbrella? We cannot live without it.

However this guilt is displayed, it all stems from the underlying feeling that we’re short changing our children with the time we spend at work. It demonstrates a keen desire to make the very best of every single moment we have with our offspring and, if I’m honest, can sometimes lead to over indulgence and exaggeration where there really is no need.

Let us discuss exhibit one – my son’s third birthday party. Just a small party I thought. No need to make a big fuss. I approached it like I would at work, with a task list: Date, venue, guest list, invites, entertainment, catering, party bags, thank you cards. It’s easy. I organise more in an hour at work.

Of course, I hadn’t counted for the one thing that I would be lacking – logic. And I hadn’t considered how much the emotion would come into it. Because soon, very soon, we were faced with a party that was completely and utterly out of all proportion. I suppose I knew I was in trouble when everyone started to accept the invitations. I hadn’t counted on everyone wanting to come! Then someone pointed out that you can’t just count the kids, you need to count the parents and the siblings too. What would they eat? What would they do? Would everyone get on? The simple run around in the village hall had accidentally turned into Gloucestershire’s very own royal wedding.

I stepped into some sort of weird Mother of the Bride mode. No, came the reply from the local police, they didn’t think control barriers were needed to keep back the crowds. Thanks but no, said the BBC. It wasn’t necessary to send an outside broadcast to cover my son’s arrival at the party via his Thomas the Tank Engine scooter. And besides, David Dimbleby was busy that day. Even the Sky News helicopter, which frankly is sent out for the slightest of stories, was refused.

I had to get a grip. Luckily, I had a bank of people to depend on who were all willing to

Makeover Parties for

Divas, Princesses, Fairies, Pirates

SPA for Teenagers,

Pampering for Mums We do the hard work so you don’t have to!

(01452) 417696 Glitterandgloss.co.uk

pitch in and help out. As the day approached, the generosity and talent of my friends and family were evident with offers to help and donations of food and party banners and time.

(Greater friend hath no woman than one who will travel 150 miles to do face painting at your child’s party.)

The day arrived. I’d initially thought of all these themes and activities but to be honest, the kids were so excitable, it was like herding cats. The pass the parcel was on the brink of failure when the iPod refused to work until we remembered that collectively, as parents, we had access to every song ever written and sang our way through. The children sat down to eat, there was cake and music and really, for the amount of e numbers consumed, very few toddler meltdowns. Most importantly, they all left with a balloon and a smile and my son – despite that toxic mix of sugar, excitement and presents - slept the sleep of his life.

The grown-ups made short work of the leftover wine and we all ate left over party food for the next week. Perfect.

I’m not sure if we would get away with the same organised chaos for the more savvy and cynical 5 – 10 year old age bracket. It comes as no surprise to me that the entrepreneurial among us make a good living out of supporting the party industry. The parties we’ve attended since make me realise how creative you can be in children’s entertainment. Like all challenging things in life, moving house, cleaning, child rearing etc. I suspect the best way forward is to outsource to the professionals.

Things I learned: Get help! Whether that’s from friends, family or the party professionals – this is too big a job for one set of parents Set a budget The over indulgent working mother driver resulted in over catering, over decorating and over spending They don’t eat much: Food is secondary to general mayhem and running around. Keep it simple!

Relax the rules: As long as they’re not ruining it for everyone else, it’s ok to let things slide for a few hours Take loads of pictures: They’ll appreciate it when they’re 21.

Enjoy it: A year is a long time until the next one, and you need the memories to last.

CROC N ROLL PARTIES

FUN MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT for your little ones, perfect for any celebration.

Choose between 30, 45 or 60 minutes packed full of guitar-‐led action songs, rhymes, puppets, stories, percussion instruments & bubbles.

Parties suitable for 2 -‐ 5 yr olds & are individually tailored to age, theme & occasion.

For prices & to book call Stephanie on 07957 235413 Or e mail Stephanie@crocnroll.co.uk

Glitter & Gloss

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FGPARTIES FEATURE

FGADVENTURE PARK Cattle Country Location: Berkeley Tel: 01453 810510 www.cattlecountry.co.uk When the park is closed to the public, private parties can be booked for exclusive access to Cattle Country (see advert and special offer on pg 5).

FGBOUNCY CASTLES All About Fun UK. Location: Cheltenham Tel: 01242 235273 www.allaboutfunuk.com Bisley Bouncy Castles. Location: Stroud 01452 770613 www.bisleybouncycastles.co.uk Forest Inflatables Location: Lydney Tel: 01594 840763 www. forestinflatables.co.uk

FGCLIMBING The Warehouse Climbing Centre. Location: Gloucester.

Tel: 01452 302351 www.the-warehouse.co.uk Go Ape High Wire Forest Adv Location: Forest of Dean Tel: 0845 6432018 www.goape.co.uk

FGCLOWNS Mini the Clown Location: Gloucestershire Tel: 07813 940023 www.minitheclown.co.uk

FGCUPCAKES Mummy Owls Cupcakes Location: South Glos Tel: 07887546500 www.mummyowlscupcakes.co.uk Cirencester Cupcakes Location: Cirencester Tel: 01285 644994 www.cirencestercupcakes.co.uk

FGGYM

parties special so everyone’s talking about them the next day.

Not only will your daughter and friends have a fantastic 2 hours and look extremely glamorous but your stress levels will be non existent! From start to finish we’ll provide everything that’s needed to make the party a success because we know it’s your reputation on the line. GREAT VALUE FOR MONEY! For our Special Offers call Jill (01452) 417696

FGMOBILE VENUE The Playbus Location: South and Central Glos Tel: 01454 414467 www.theplaybus.com

FGMUSIC (Babies&Toddlers)

Monkey Music Location: Gloucestershire Tel: 07768 457403 www.monkeymusic.co.uk Lots of monkey fun for little ones. Monkey Music introduces music to very young children in a way they can easily understand and enjoy. Music makes us feel good whatever our age. Come and join the fun!

Teddy Tunes Location: Frampton on Severn Tel: 01453 828557 www.teddytunes.co.uk Jazzy Jamboree Location: South Glos Tel: 07949 546862. www.jazzyjamboree.co.uk Jo Jingles Location: Cheltenham, Gloucester, Stroud Tel: 01453 839464 www.jojingles.com/centralgloucestershire Croc n Roll Location: Gloucestershire Tel: 07957 235413 stephanie@crocnroll.co.uk

FGMUSIC (Older Children) Popstar Parties Location: Gloucestershire Tel: 01386 700640 Cinderford Soundspace Location: Cinderford 01594 825124

FGPHOTO SHOOT Two Front Teeth Photography Location: Cheltenham Tel: 01242 708468 www.twofrontteeth.co.uk

FGPOTTERY Paint It Yourself Pottery. Location: Cheltenham Tel: 01242 575700 www.piyp.co.uk Pick-a-Pot. Location: Cirencester Tel: 01285 650405 www.pickapot.co.uk Paint-a-Pot. Location: Nailsworth Tel: 01453 835043 www.paint-a-pot.co.uk Potty 4 Pottery Location: Stroud Tel: 07719 665002 www.potty4pottery.co.uk

FGSTORIES/DRAMA Vickie Long Location: Gloucestershire Tel: 07982 256381 www.vickielong.co.uk/party

FGSOFTPLAY Go Bananas Location: Stroud (see advert on pg 9) Tel: 01453 769120 Magic Land Location: Cirencester Tel: 01285 885570 www.magicland.co.uk Little Follies / A Forest of Adventure Location: Coleford.

Tel: 01594 833229 www.littlefollies.co.uk Jungle Chums. Location: Thornbury Tel: 07769 664510 www.junglechums.co.uk Play Farm. Location: Cheltenham Tel: 01242 257955 www.playfarm.co.uk

FGTOY HIRE Little Party Hire Location: Cirencester Tel: 01285 641523 www.littlepartyhire

Tumble Tots Location: Gloucestershire Tel: 0844 984 0338 www.tumbletots.com/gloucester Tumble tots is Britain’s leading active physical play programme.

Classes are held on Monday in Longlevens, Tuesday in Charlton Kings, Wednesday in Hatherley, Thursday in Quedgeley, & Friday in Cirencester. We have classes for children from 6 months to 7 years, & we also offer Childrens Parties.

FGJEWELLERY Bohemian Beads Location: Gloucestershire Tel:0845 3918941 www.bohemianbeads.co.uk A children’s jewellery making party is a perfect solution to the age old problem of birthday parties! With a huge selection of gorgeous beads and charms to choose from, they will all be able to make something extra specialto take home. Perfect for girls (and boys!) aged 6 to 16

FGMAKEOVERS

Bohemian Beads

Fun & Creative Jewellery Parties Delight them by designing and making their own Necklaces, Bracelets etc. 6 -16.

All materials provided

www.bohemianbeads.co.uk / 0845 391 8941 info@bohemeianbeads.co.uk

Funny female experienced clown ideal for the little ones aged 3-5.

Bubbles, Balloons, Puppets.

Glitter and Gloss Location: Gloucestershire Tel: 01452 417696 www.glitterandgloss.co.uk Want To Be Talked About?We have a way of making birthday

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pARENTS mEAN Business...

Do you want to achieve a better work-life Balance?

In our last issue we featured Kelle Garagaro from Forever Living products who managed to do just that and, judging by the reaction from readers, it obviously struck a chord. So this issue we are featuring a selection of Mums (and Dads) who took the plunge and went into business – setting up on their own – or taking on a franchise. And we also highlight some opportunities available to you if you want to run your own flexible business that fits with family life. But first, is it really possible and what support is available in Gloucestershire?

Business Start Up Support

G

loucestershire Enterprise Ltd (GEL) provides high quality business advice, support and training that is local, affordable and cost-effective for businesses of all sizes, types and sectors.

GEL is a not-for-private-profit social enterprise offering general and bespoke support to improve business productivity and profitability. The width of services and programmes ensure that they are able to help individuals to start their own business, provide guidance and mentoring to fledgling businesses, advice and consultancy to small businesses and training opportunities and bespoke solutions to larger organisations.

Their programmes are built with small businesses in mind and can provide practical help and solutions tailored to help local businesses to prosper and grow. Wherever you are in the business life-cycle, they have a serviced designed to give practical help and guidance and some solutions attract funding.

Deciding to start your own enterprise needs careful consideration and a “reality check” with an impartial adviser. GEL offers short workshops to enable you to understand whether you have “got what it takes” to decide if starting a business is “right for you”.

From here, you can meet with one of their experienced advisers for an initial one-to-one meeting to discuss your idea in greater detail and understand the regulatory requirements involved. You will come away with a personal action plan designed to start you on your journey of self-employment.

GEL also offers a monthly 2-day course designed to inform you of all the necessary aspects of running your own business. You will learn about the legislation and regulations applicable to your industry, how to generate sales and plan marketing strategies and importantly how to manage your finances and keep your records in order.

Having attended the course, GEL are able to continue with one-to-one support to help you create a business plan.

Anyone with a family knows how difficult it can be to juggle all of these aspects with starting your own business and GEL are able to offer meetings at a time and place to suit you. Some of their courses are run during school term and during school hours allowing you to have the opportunity to attend them.

Business Opportunities in Gloucestershire dramatic way to earn a living – Theatrebugs Theatrebugs are on the move. The established London-based drama club especially for 3-7 year olds launched their Theatrebugs franchise in October and are looking for new franchisees across the country. So, if you want to add a bit of drama to your life and start your own business, act now to find out more.

Theatrebugs facilitate after school clubs, Under 5s clubs, holiday workshops, magical birthday parties, private lessons and “awe-inspiring” classes for young children in nurseries and infant schools.

Theatrebugs co-founder Paula O Donohue says: “If you love dance, drama, music and children, this is a fun business to run. It is hard work but you can be your own boss, choose your own hours and earn good money being creative.” A limited number of reduced franchise fees are available for pilot franchisees. Call Paula or Kristyanne on 0207 350 2995 for further information Baby and Toddler Swimming – Puddle ducks Business but swimmingly... The Puddle Ducks Franchise. Join the most exciting baby swimming franchise network in the UK! Puddle Ducks offer a business opportunity that fits perfectly around family life whilst being rewarding both financially and personally. Do you have the right mix of skills, energy and enthusiasm to take advantage? Read Sarah Peacock’s story on the next page to find out more. Puddle Ducks are currently looking for someone to bring Puddle Ducks to Gloucestershire. www.puddleducks.com Baby and Children’s Markets Like to set up your own baby and children’s market in Gloucestershire? Franchise opportunities avaiailable (no joining fee). www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Forever living Working part-time hours to suit family life. Contact Julianna Dewar for more information 07584 302759 For more information, guidance and support about starting your own business visit www.businesslink.gov.uk Please note that we do not recommend or endorse any opportunity featured and suggest that you seek independent financial advice before investing in any franchise or business opportunity.

For further details contact Michaela Cozens on 01452 733546 or michaela.cozens@ glosenterprise.co.uk For information on the open programme of training courses visit www.glosenterprise.co.uk

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We did it!

We meet some local people who’ve made the decision to change their Career ...and their lives!

N

ikki Ashworth, a teacher and consultant in Gloucestershire for the last 28 years decided to move away from education and focus on a new venture very close to her heart.

During my years working with children, teenagers and adults, I became aware that the everyday problems people generally suffer from are, stress, anxiety and fear. Alongside this, runs self doubt and low self esteem.

Sometimes we are all so busy trying to keep our head above water and keep a smile on our face whilst inside we are struggling with a whole spectrum of different emotions. The knock on side effect from living in this kind of state for too long is that our zest for life and relationships begin to suffer, we can become tired and unhappy or even angry and resentful.

I started ‘Balancing Blends’, a holistic practice, with parents, teenagers and children in mind. My practice involves the use of the highly acclaimed, Dr Bach’s flower remedies. The remedies help us to get things into perspective so that we can feel happier about a situation or just generally about ourselves. They can help to soothe and calm a turbulent state; energise the weary or unmotivated or bring courage to the anxious and afraid.

What I was particularly drawn to is that these remedies are totally natural. They are made from extracts of wild flowers, plants and trees. They are gentle, safe and non-addictive with no negative side effects and yet have powerful healing qualities.

There are a total of 38 remedies altogether in the complete Bach system of healing; all prepared to help to balance a vast range of emotional states.

In a typical course of consultations, each which lasts about an hour, I select several remedies to make a unique blend for a person, depending on how they are feeling. A few drops of these remedies taken regularly in water for a period of 2 to 3 weeks, is all that is needed to help to bring about balance and harmonise the emotional state. It is so simple and yet so powerful!

Dr Bach’s flower remedies have been used since the 1930s in helping people to overcome emotional problems. They are especially helpful for emotional issues such as: anxiety, concentration problems, stress, anger, fear, resentment and grief.

Young people respond quickly to the remedies and it is

wonderful to see the positive changes they can make in such a short time. Even If a child or teenager is reluctant to come and talk about themselves, I am able to prepare them a remedy by talking to their parent or carer.

Nikki is an NLP( Neuro Linguistic Programming) trainer, a Practitioner of Bach Flower Remedies and a Reiki Master. If you would like to find out more on how these treatments can help you, contact her on: 07976685537 or email her on: info@ balancingblends.co.uk or to find out more information, visit: www.balancingblends.co.uk

O

ur story begins this time last year, when my partner Matt Holdback launched his company Just Camps (www.justcamps. co.uk).

The business specialises in holiday camps for children aged 4 – 12 years. Based in Cheltenham the camps run every holiday.

The children attending can partake in fun filled activities all day long like multi sports, SAQ (speed, agility, and quickness), arts and craft and street dance.

Little by little the company has grown and with a lot of help from family and friends he now has a good base from which to continue from for the upcoming Easter camp, May half term, and then summer, where the camps run for 5 consecutive weeks and our house will once again become camp HQ! Our son Harry benefits massively from this business as he gets to go to every camp, be surrounded by children to play with and I’m certain I’ll never be greeted by the dreaded holiday phrase, ”Mum I’m bored”.

After the holidays were over last September Matt launched the second phase of his business JustPT (www.justpt.co.uk). He is a qualified Personal Trainer. This works well alongside the camps as it enables Matt to work in the term time, and believe me he loves to be as busy as possible. He is using his fitness knowledge to help others achieve their goals.

This is where I come in. Being inspired and encouraged by Matt’s experience I decided the time was right for me to embrace the unknown and start my own business too. Having studied for years in various massage therapies and techniques, including Sports massage and baby massage, I enrolled on the Princes Trust Enterprise course last October. The course was fantastic, and gave me a great insight into setting up business.

The best thing was that we were given a mentor to guide us through the first year.

So in keeping with our brand, Just Massage (www.justmassage.co.uk) was born. I too work from the Personal training Studio above Up and Running 290 High Street Cheltenham, treating people who want to prevent injury and who are

recovering from injury. I also treat clients in need of relaxation, a one off pampering or who require a series of therapeutic sessions to help deal with stress.

Being parents in our own businesses requires dedication, motivation and we are extremely passionate about what we do. We have to work together and be flexible with childcare and try and help each other wherever we can. Harry comes first and work must fit around him, but because we are in control of when we work we can make that happen. We started our ventures with nothing, no savings just a desire and a strong will to succeed.

If you are a parent, thinking of starting your own business, then go for it! Who knows it may just be the best thing you ever did.

S

arah Peacock is the owner of Puddle Ducks Bristol and Bath. Baby swimming became the highlight of Sarah’s week when she started taking her son, Sam, to classes when he was just five weeks old.

“I made some great friends and he absolutely loved splashing about in the water. Now Sam is seven and won his first race at his school swimming gala last month – I am a very proud mum!”

When Sam was two Sarah chose to give up her digital marketing career and retrained to become a baby and toddler swimming instructor. After nearly three years of teaching, she believed so strongly in the benefits of introducing babies and toddlers to water and had so much fun teaching them that she started her own swim school and brought Puddle Ducks to Bristol and Bath.

Sarah cautions that even with a franchise, the start-up of the business requires hard work and dedication. Starting a franchise isn’t easy and shouldn’t be underestimated. “However, if I am

unsure about something, I simply open up my Puddle Ducks operations manual and nine times out of ten, the answer will be there. I also speak to Head Office often on the phone and they are always so positive, and never short of ideas!”

Sarah sums up the benefits of running a franchise by saying “A franchise is the best of both worlds. On the one side, you have the autonomy to run your own business which means learning loads and having the flexibility of working when it suits you. I love the fact that I can walk Sam to and from school every day and spend the school holidays with him. On the other side, you are not alone. Being part of a franchise network means there is always somebody to bounce ideas off and ask for advice.”

For more information about a Puddle Ducks franchise in Gloucestershire visit www. puddleducks.com

Join the most exciting baby swimming franchise network in the UK! We offer a unique opportunity to harness your skills to run a successful, flexible and rewarding business.

Tel 01477 535 527 Email info@puddleducks.com

Business but swimmingly... www.puddleducks.com

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The Cotswold Chef talks to Families! from producers like Charles Martell, Diana Smart or Liz Godsell. Cook over a low heat for 5-10mins until the frittata is set enough to turn, then flip over and cook through on the other side. This Italian-style omelette can then be eaten hot with salad leaves or refrigerated and taken on a picnic, or even put into a packed lunch, as a change from the usual boring sandwiches.

Any cold, leftover potatoes are great mixed with mayonnaise and chopped chives to create a simple potato salad to take along on your picnics.

Hello again and I hope you’re enjoying the lighter evenings andw managing to get out and about with the family to enjoy the sights and tastes of the countryside. May and June bring with them the real start to Spring with lots of inspiring seasonal produce, as well as traditional English events such as strawberry picking, cricket, tennis at Wimbledon and many interesting and fun-packed food festivals – all of which present a great opportunity to picnic in the great outdoors – more of which later….

English asparagus and new potatoes in particular spring to mind at this time of year, as well as the first English strawberries which everyone, young and old, enjoys. These will have so much more flavour than the imported varieties that you may have been buying over recent months and totally delicous to slice on the breakfast cereal in the morning as part of 5 a day. Asparagus and new potatoes can be used creatively to produce many speedy supper dishes.

Pasta is always a favourite with children so maybe try making some of your own, with their help (flour, olive oil, egg yolks, whole eggs and water is all that is required – you don’t have to have a pasta machine) and then make a “Pasta Primavera”.

Simply fry garlic in a little butter then add blanched, bite-sized pieces of local asparagus, frozen peas and some baby spinach.

Stir-fry for a few minutes until the spinach is wilted and then add cooked, fresh pasta, lemon zest and juice, black pepper and plenty of chopped fresh herbs, such as mint, basil and parsley. Sprinkle over some parmesan shavings or even a slice of local goat’s cheese (Cerney Goat’s Cheese has a lovely mild flavour) and a drizzle of olive oil and serve with a crust of Tiger bread from Hobbs House Bakery.

Alternatively try a lovely frittata, using par boiled, diced new potatoes. Fry onions in a little butter and olive oil and then add potatoes and vegetables e.g. asparagus, spinach, pak choi, peas.

Beat a few free-range Cotswold Legbar eggs and add to the pan along with some crumbled Double Gloucester Cheese

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As a speedy dessert, try the delightfully named “Eton Mess” by making some meringues – which children love to help with.

Whisk egg whites until very stiff, gradually whisk in caster sugar and the aromatic seeds of a fresh vanilla pod. If you are after some great vanilla pods do pop in to the Cotswold Ice Cream Company near Northleach and say hello to Dani – its fabulous and she sells Fairtrade Pods as well as Ice Cream! Anyway pipe or spoon the whites into shapes and dry out slowly in a very low oven. Alternatively you could cheat and buy some delicious special flavoured Meringues from Lisa Snell and Cotswold Meringue Company. They are often found in the counties farm shops and delis. Next, whip some cream and fold in chopped strawberries and crushed meringues. Pile into individual glass sundae dishes, garnish with a sprig of mint and you have a quick and delicious dessert.

Tewkesbury Food Festival from 30th April – 2nd May www. tewkesburyfoodfestival.co.uk where there are free cookery workshops for Tewkesbury residents. Alternatively, try the Three Counties Show from 17th-19th June www.threecounties. co.uk where you will find a host of exciting food and farm related activities for the whole family or, on the same dates, the Cheltenham Food & Drink Festival www.garden-events. com held in the beautiful Montpellier Gardens.

Finally, May brings a couple of interesting themed weeks.

Firstly, it’s “National Vegetarian Week” from 23rd - 29th May. This annual awareness-raising campaign promotes inspirational vegetarian food and the benefits of a meatfree lifestyle. This is a great opportunity to look at food and its impact on the environment, animals and health www. nationalvegetarianweek.org Secondly, it’s “Real Bread Maker Week” from 9th – 15th May. If your kitchen cupboard is home to one of Britain’s estimated 10 million unused bread machines, then is the time to dig it out and use it to bake Real Bread or pass it on to someone who will!

Have a look at this campaign on www.sustainweb.org Well that’s it from me for this month. I do hope you manage to get to a food festival near you – there are lots of local ones happening and please try to support your local producers wherever possible, as English seasonal produce really is wonderful.

Rob Rees MBE is The Cotswold Chef™ check us out at www.thecotswoldchef.com and on www.twitter.com/thecotswoldchef

To keep the kids occupied and out of doors, growing your own veggies is a great way to encourage them to try new things. It could be as simple as growing some radishes or salad leaves in a container – rocket is quick-growing and peppery or try some pretty frisee or crispy Cos lettuce. Alternatively, Grow and Cook at Wycliffe Preparatory School get some sprouting Wycliffe College Preparatory School is a school in the happening on your heart of the Gloucestershire countryside and its children windowsills – alfalfa are learning all about sustainability, looking after their grows quickly and is great environment and how to produce and cook their own food. to add to salads, or try the Headmaster Adrian Palmer says “We consider it important more traditional mung that we prepare children for life outside the classroom, to beans. Both provide become independent and to have confidence in the world an excellent source of around them. We see the Grow and Cook club along with the other initiatives we have adopted here Vitamin C and fibre and at Wycliffe, as an important part of this process”. add great texture to salads. And if you really Teacher Ruairidh Gaunt has started a Grow and Cook club and on their vegetable patch the children don’t want to get involved are growing red and white onions, shallots, garlic, various varieties of cabbages, beetroot, parsnips, in this, then check out the potatoes and squashes. Ruairidh said: “The idea came about because I grow a lot of my own veg on National Trust website an allotment. I thought it must be possible to get school involved in some way. “ www.foodgloriousfood.

The club members meet once a week; they bake cakes, bread and biscuits and have churned org.uk where there is the their own butter and made cheese. The school kitchen has also produced fabulous soups and stews opportunity for children using the produce the children have grown. Mr Gaunt is thrilled at the children’s enthusiasm and to have a virtual veg has big plans: “It is a very popular club. If I can get children cooking at home or even growing then it patch!! will be even more of a success. I plan in the future to be using the honey from our bees in recipes, on If you’re looking at getting out and about and enjoying some “foodie” events, then look out for The

producing a Wycliffe recipe book, and processing our apples and pears into juice.”

The honey is coming from Wycliffe’s new bee hives and the fruit from the school’s own trees.

Children have recently helped plant a new orchard of 30 mixed fruit trees near the Preparatory boarding houses. From the September harvest they will also be using the bees wax to make candles and other products which will be sold at the Christmas fair.

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

4/13/2011 4:29:40 PM

WHAT’s ON1

What’s On May - June 2011 (We’ve looked for things which we think will be of interest to families) Please always check with the venue for prices, in case details have changed or perhaps we simply got it wrong...

Roses Theatre

Film Workshop Tuesday 31st May 10.30am - 4.30pm Venue: Tewkesbury C of E Primary School Age: 7-11 This is a fun-filled workshop where you can make a film in just one day!

Inspired by the film A Turtle’s Tale (U), you can learn how to story-board, film and edit your very own mini movie, work with an experienced film maker and be inspired by the Roses programme.

Suitable for all levels of ability.

Cost: £20 Presented by: Take Part @ The Roses www.rosestheatre.org Tel: 01684 295074.

Museum in the Park Stratford Park, Stroud.

01453 763394. www.museuminthepark.org.uk THE BIG WEAVE for Primary Schools 5th - 6th May A fabulous opportunity for primary school pupils to try tapestry weaving, under the expert tuition of Caroline Marriott and Diane Wood from The Big Weave. Book early to avoid disappointment - call Ann Taylor, Learning Officer, on 01453 763394. Linked to Stroud International Textile Festival.

THE BIG WEAVE Drop in workshop 7th May Come along to the Museum and discover the delights of weaving and have a go at weaving on The Big Weave Community Loom! Everyone welcome - for adults and children alike! Part of Stroud International Textile Festival.

Spring Bird Walk in Stratford Park 8th May Join Park Supervisor Mike McCrea and discover the nesting sites around the park. All ages welcome, wear sturdy footwear and meet outside the Museum. After the walk, take a look at the bird cam in the Museum - have any new eggs hatched, or have any fledglings flown the nest.

Mothing in the Walled Garden 13th May Discover the moths who inhabit the mysterious, overgrown wildlife haven of the Walled Garden behind the Museum. All ages welcome, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

Wrap up warm and bring a torch.

Westonbirt Arboretum 01666 880220 www.westonbirtarboretum.com Forest Fun: Tuesday 31 May - Thursday 2 June 10:30am - 4pm, age 4+ Forests are great places for fun! Follow our playful trail to explore, create, build and imagine your way around Westonbirt. Make your own green games with natural materials to play back at home.

Free after admission All six Live Music acts now announced for Westonbirt this summer: Simple Minds (17 June), Erasure (18 June), Scouting for Girls (19 June), Bryan Ferry (15 July), Westlife (16 July) and Texas (17 July). www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/INFD-8BKNXK

Slimbridge Wetland centre Slimbridge Wetland Centre , 01453 891900 www.wwt.org.uk/slimbridge Land Rover safari Every weekend 11am & 2pm Everyday during school holidays (1 May – Sept) (£5 adults, £3 children) Enjoy the opportunity to go out into the reserve in the company of an expert warden and enjoy views of the wild birds that live on the banks of the Severn – all from the comfort of a seat in the covered trailer. Book tours on arrival at the Admissions area. .

Reptile Encounters Sunday 8 May 11.30 am to 4 pm Free with admission Enjoy the opportunity to get close to and even handle lizards, snakes and tarantulas - just drop in to the Get Closer room at any time. Not for the squeamish!

Downy Duckling Days Saturday 28 May – Sunday 5 June Downy Duckling tours running through the week free with admission Duckling crèche in the classroom. Add your carefully crafted duckling to our duckling border.

Complete the duckling treasure hunt and win yourselves a prize. Learn about duck mums, their nests, eggs and

ducklings. Paper activities on offer too.

Wildflower and Orchid walk Saturday 11 June 10.30am, costs £12 Join our reserve manager for a magical behind the scenes walk looking for the wetland’s finest wildflowers and orchids. Must be pre-booked on 01453 891223 or email eleanor.wise@wwt. org.uk in to the Get Closer room at any time. Not for the squeamish!

Reptile Encounters Sunday 12 June 11.30 am to 4 pm Free with admission Enjoy the opportunity to get close to and even handle lizards, snakes and tarantulas - just drop in to the Get Closer room at any time. Not for the squeamish!

Wildflower and Orchid walk Saturday 25 June 10.30am, costs £12 Join our reserve manager for a magical behind the scenes walk looking for the wetland’s finest wildflowers and orchids. Must be pre-booked on 01453 891223 or email eleanor.wise@wwt. org.uk

Berkeley Castle

Tuesday 31st May - Thursday 2nd June Teddy Bears Picnic 01453 810332 www.berkeley-castle.com

CORINIUM MUSEUM Corinium Museum, Park Street, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 2BX Tel: 01285 655611 Email: museums@cotswold. gov.uk Website: http://coriniummuseum.cotswold. gov.uk

£1 for activity only, or included in the price of admission. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Please note that last admissions will be 10 minutes before the end of each drop-in session.

Wulfheodenas Anglo-Saxon Re-enactment Day sponsored by NADFAS Wednesday 1st June 10am to 3pm Formerly founded in 2008 , Wulfheodenas England are a small society of like minded friends dedicated to the study & recreation of the military elite and meadhall culture of the 6th & 7th century Germanic North West Eurpoean folk, who would become known to later generations as the Early English.

There will be drop-in craft activities for children and re-enactment fun for all the family. This event has been sponsored by the Cirencester NADFAS society.

Animal Masks from the Orpheus Mosaic Thursday 2nd June and Friday 3rd June 10.30 – 11.30am and 2.30 – 3.30pm The Orpheus mosaic tells the story of Orpheus charming the animals with his beautiful music.

Many animals are depicted in our mosaic including a tiger, leopard, lion and birds. Choose the one that you would like to make and create your own mask to take home.

Cost – included in admission Family drop-ins are suitable for children aged 3 and above. Cost £1 for activity only, or included in the price of admission. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Please note that last admissions will be 10 minutes before the end of each drop-in session.

Dean forest Railway

Thomas the Tank Engine trips 4th - 5th June 01594 845840 www.deanforestrailway.co.uk

Hare Mosaics Monday 30th May & Tuesday 31st May 10.30 – 11.30am and 2.30 – 3.30pm The famous Hare mosaic was discovered in Beeches Road, Cirencester in 1971. The subject matter makes it one of our best loved mosaics. Come and see it for yourself and create your own collage of the Hare mosaic to take home.

Cost – included in admission Family drop-ins are suitable for children aged 3 and above. Cost

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

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WHAT’s ON2

What’s On May - June 2011

Please always check with the venue for prices, in case details have changed or perhaps we simply got it wrong...

Gloucester Quays

‘Great Taste’ Weekend Food Markets 30th April - 1st & 2nd May 4th & 5th June Sample some fantastic foods and amazing shopping. A great day out for all the family. www.gloucesterquays.co.uk

At-Bristol At-Bristol 0845 345 1235 www.at-bristol.org.uk All About Us The biggest news of the year, At-Bristol launched its new £1.5 million exhibition ‘All About Us’, funded by the Welcome Trust. Discover just how amazing you are in this new family-friendly permanent exhibition. Visitors will be spoilt with over 50 new hands-on science exhibits, allowing you to test human phenomena and engage in real science. Visitors will be able to investigate how their brain and bodies work together and how we relate to people and the world around us.

Toddler Takeover – Come Rain or Shine!

May 6th 2011 Come and play in this day of activities exclusively for under 5s and their parents or carers! Spot twinkly stars with the Little Stars Planetarium show and go on an imaginative adventure with Storytelling. This month’s theme is ‘Come Rain or Shine’ so explore the splashy and sunny world of weather. Your little rays of sunshine are sure to have fun in this jam-packed day filled with drippy clouds, funny snowflakes and clourful rainbows!

Storytelling 11.30am Weekends and holidays Are you sitting comfortably? Then get swept in a story with At-Bristol. Learn all about the albatross who got lost in his global adventure and more - perfect for engaging little ears.

Spring night sky Planetarium shows: Running until 20th June (Subject to availability) Not suitable for under 5s Spring into the Planetarium and be taken on an amazing extraterrestial adventure to the stars.

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Summer night sky Planetarium shows: Running from 21st June - 19th Sept (Subject to availability) Not suitable for under 5s Be the first to see the wonders of the Summer night sky! Discover dusty colourful planets and ancient constellations which are characteristic of this time of year.

Little Stars At-Bristol Running weekends and holidays 2pm Children 1-4 and their families Tiny space explorers welcome for a ‘Little Stars’ trip to the stars. This specially designed presenter-led show is filled with actions and interaction which is perfect for engaging the little ones. So buckle up and explore twinkly stars making new friends along the way!

Toddler Time 1.30pm - 5pm every Monday during term time; 2.30pm Storytelling Enjoy half price entry to At-Bristol for parents and carers and under fives get in free. Little ones can explore the interactive exhibits of At-Bristol and enjoy being taken on an imaginative adventure with storytelling.

Learn all about the monkey who didn’t know what to eat and more!

BFG Summer Fete Battledown Centre for Children and Families Saturday 18th June 12.00 - 3.00pm Harp Hill, Cheltenham GL52 6PZ Entry charge: Adults 50p, Children -free Cotswold Way Challenge Saturday 18th June Cleeve Hill, Cheltenham Take part in the St John Ambulance walk and show your support for a local charity. The walk allows people of all ages to take part and share a sense of achievement. Choose from The Families Walk (2 miles); The Leisure Walk (6 miles); The Walkers Walk (13 miles); The Challenge (24 miles) To register, or for more information, please contact Chloe Moorhead on 01452 858220 or at cotswoldway-challenge@glos.sja.org.uk www.sja.org.uk/cotswoldwaychallenge

NCT Nearly New Sale Sunday 25th June Minchinhampton Primary School, Cambridge Way, off Dr Browns Road 9.30am - 11am Admission £1; Early entry at 9.15am with NCT Membership Card

If you would like to include any events in future issues of Families Gloucestershire please send details to the editor: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

Slimbridge

Wetland Centre

other events The 3rd Amberley Cow Hunt Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th May 1pm-5pm Over 30 wooden cows will be weirdly and wonderfully decorated and scattered around the beautiful village of Amberely. The fun starts at Amberely Parochial School where trail maps can be collected. Great, home made refreshments. Completed maps will be entered into a free prize draw. All profits will go to Amberley Parochial School.

Forest of Dean Amble for Arthritis Sunday 15th May 4pm Starting at Nags Head Inn, Yorkley Slade, nr Lydney, there will be a short amble around the Forest of Dean to help raise money for Arthritis Care. The walk will end back at the pub to enjoy a sizzling bbq. For further details and to register please email southengland@arthritiscare.org.uk or call 0844 8882111 www.arthritiscare.org.uk

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

28 May – 5 June

• watch our adorable ducklings take their first steps at this great family event • go on a tour behind the scenes • see inside an egg and learn all about incubation and hatching • meet our many young feathered friends

visit information For further ge id br /slim w wt.org.uk Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT T 01453 891900 WWT reg charity in England & Wales, no. 1030884 and Scotland, no. SC039410

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