Familygolive july august 2013 by Family Go Live

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The Essential Directory for Organised Parents Summer’s officially here, so it’s time to slap on some sunscreen, put your feet up and get stuck into your July and August issue of Family Go Live magazine. We’ve got all you need to help you prepare for the summer season. In Clubs and Classes we explore how sending your child to summer camp can help them develop, while our listings section provides information on some of the best holiday schemes in Liverpool this summer. Whether your child is a sports fiend or fancies themselves as the next Emma Watson, there’s something for everyone. In Health and Beauty we take a look at summer holiday must-haves and how you can stop hay fever ruining your family’s summer, while in Local Services we explore how hiring a pet sitter can take the stress out of the holiday season for you and your four-legged friends. If you’re dreading the prospect of keeping the kids occupied for six whole weeks, then help is at hand, as we’ve found some of the best family days out on the Merseyrail network and also take a look at who’s topping the bill at this year’s Liverpool Food and Drink Festival. It’s not all summer-centric though. In Education, we’re exploring why so many children are suffering from stress, and why your birth month can sometimes have an impact

Contents Bumps & Babies

Education

Clubs & Classes

Out & About

Local Services

Health & Beauty

Parties & Playtime

on your academic attainment. In local services, we investigate what you can do if you’ve had a cosmetic procedure that’s gone wrong and how to plan the perfect toddler’s birthday bash in Parties and Playtime. In Bumps and Babies we take a look at the new trend for ‘babymoons’ and if you’re a fan of keeping your friends up to date with the minutiae of your child’s development via social media, or adopt a special cutesy voice when talking to your child, think again, as we’ve also got a list of the top 10 annoying parenting habits. How many will you be guilty of? We’ve also got our usual mix of competitions, reviews and events listings, giving you all the information you need to make this an unforgettable summer. Best wishes, The Family Go Live team

EDITORIAL: Sarah Carlin ADVERTISING SALES: Clare Vaughan / Laura Doyle DIRECTOR: Denise Harris ADDRESS: SK Events, The Old Bank 382 Aigburth Road Liverpool L19 3QD TELEPHONE: 0151 432 5651 EMAIL: info@familygolive.com Disclaimer: The information contained within Family Go Live we believe to be correct at the time of printing, no responsibility can be accepted for errors or omissions.

Directory

Antenatal Support

Twilight Midwife Tel: 0151 538 2998 www.twilightmidwife.co.uk NCT Tel: 0844 243 6191 www.nct.org.uk/branches/liverpool

Post-natal support

Association of Breast Feeding Mothers Tel: 08444 122 949 www.abm.me.uk/contact PSS Post Natal Support Group Tel: 0151 222 9262 www.psspeople.com Bambis Breast Feeding Support Group Tel: 0151 702 4411 bambis@lwh.nhs.uk

Nurseries and childminders

Community and Child minder Network Co-Ordinator Tel: 0151 233 4001 www.anfieldchildrenscentre.org.uk Dukes & Duchesses Tel: 0151 709 1186 www.duckesandduchesses.co.uk Holyrood Nursery Tel: 0151 227 4345 www.holyrood-nursery-princessdock.co.uk Kelton Nursery Tel: 0151 724 5802 www.keltonnursery.co.uk Honey Pot Nursery Tel: 0151 494 2373 www.honeypotnursery.co.uk Musical Minis Tel: 0151 486 4735 www.musicalminis.co.uk

Health Support

Late night chemist directory www.latenightchemist.co.uk Liverpool Women’s Hospital Tel: 0151 708 9988 www.liverpoolwomens.nhs.uk NHS Direct Tel: 0845 4647 www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

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WIN A SnoozeShade Deluxe Bundle! In this issue of Families Go Live, we are delighted to offer one lucky parent the chance to win the ultimate summer package – a SnoozeShade Deluxe bundle. The winner will receive the all new SnoozeShade Deluxe Original and the SnoozeShade Deluxe for Infant Car Seats, ensuring the little ones stay protected when out and about. The mums’ must-have sun and sleep shade, SnoozeShade, has just launched the Deluxe range, an indispensable item for stylish mums this summer. The SnoozeShade Deluxe collection sees the multi-award-winning parenting essential in a lustrous grey fabric and offers an upgrade on the innovative, breathable shade for strollers and infant car seats, especially for mums who enjoy a bit of luxury.

BUMPS & BABIES

Bumps & Babies

Due to give birth? Remember to fit in a babymoon first! The time before you give birth is always hectic, with attending ante-natal classes, nurserypainting and pram-purchasing all meaning that parents-to-be are kept busy right up to the due date. And according to new research, there’s one more activity that expectant mums and dads are squeezing in before the birth, albeit rather an enjoyable one, the ‘babymoon’. A poll by an online travel agency in the UK has revealed a growing number of expectant parents are taking a week or two away in the sun before the arrival of their little one, with two fifths of couples who’d recently had their first baby together admitting to going on a trip abroad before the birth. 38% of the new parents polled said they had been on holiday before the birth of their baby. Of

these respondents, 11% said they always went away at the time of year they holidayed whilst expecting and simply didn’t let the pregnancy stop their plans. However, the overwhelming majority, 42%, said they wanted some alone time together before the baby came along. It seems that investing in a Babymoon was a shrewd move for the parents involved, as 64% of the couples admitted that, now the baby had arrived, they didn’t get to spend much alone time together.

Like the SnoozeShade Classic range, the Deluxe creates a dark, breathable haven so babies can maintain their sleep patterns on-the-go, while offering high level UV protection and keeping wind, chill, light rain and insects at bay. An essential accessory for this summer, it lets mum enjoy the glorious sunshine while baby is shaded in safety.

To win, just answer this question: What colour is the SnoozeShade Deluxe? RRP: £24.99 (SnoozeShade Original Deluxe), £29.99 (SnoozeShade for Infant Car Seats Deluxe), £34.99 (SnoozeShade Plus Deluxe) Stockists: www.snoozeshade.com To enter the competition please go to www.familygolive.com/competitions and give us your answer. Closing date 30th Aug 2013

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Simple Steps for Potty Training Bliss!

Toilet training can be a daunting time for parents, so we have come up with five fabulous products that will take your tot from happy nappy days to toilet experts, with ease, comfort and style!

TotsBots!

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Organic Baby Nappy Balm

provides the perfect organic baby nappy balm The Little Green Sheep’s dmade in England han is and , skin d and chappe relief against nappy rash ral antiseptic), natu (a x swa edients including Bee using 65% organic ingr (perfect for treating dry, ter but a She and oil t Coconu soothing (non-greasy) rough or flaky skin). RRP: £6.95 Stockist:

ep.co.uk

www.thelittlegreenshe

Pourty potty

make them all parents, so why not ing days are a must for ning Pourty win ard The dreaded potty train ti-aw e. The mul comfortable as possibl as easy, hygienic and as than a standard potty! n clea and ty emp to ienic and easier waste potty is much more hyg Pourty while pouring the t so it’s easy to hold the . bles drib or s The handle is at the fron mes g no annoyin ue duct at the back with away through the uniq RRP: £9.99 Stockist:

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www.pourty.com

The UK’s parenting sins revealed Do you think Facebook is a great way to keep your friends posted on your baby’s progress, co-ordinate outfits between dad and lad or think that having little ones is a perfectly valid reason for not socialising as much as you used to? Well if you’re hoping to keep hold of your friends it could be time to think again as research reveals you’re guilty of the UK’s top parenting sins. According to a survey by a leading discount website, over half of us regularly get annoyed by the parenting habits of those around us. Topping the sin list is ‘using a cutesy voice’, closely followed by ‘baby-related Facebook status updates’ and ‘putting babies on the phone’. www.myvouchercodes.co.uk polled 1,254 Britons across the UK. The respondents were initially asked if they ever find some of the parenting habits of those around them annoying, to which more than half (56%) answered ‘yes’, and were able to pinpoint the precise parenting behaviour which makes them want to send their mummy and daddy friends on a one way trip to Coventry.

BUMPS & BABIES

From Nappy to Toilet

Mark Pearson, Chairman of MyVoucherCodes. co.uk, commented: “It can be tricky to admit to your friends what you find annoying about their parenting habits, even more so if you don’t have children yourself as they could return the criticism by blaming you for not understanding what being a parent feels like. “I guess all you can do is try to see the funny side of these things. And I’m sure even if most of us will agree to find at least one of these things annoying, we’ll all end up doing the same once we have children.”

Top ten parenting sins 1. Using a ‘cutesy’ voice 2. Baby-related status updates on

Facebook 3. Putting babies on the phone 4. Not disciplining children when unruly in public 5. Swearing in front of children 6. Blaming their kids for not going out anymore 7. Parents who constantly say how ‘perfect’ their child is 8. Criticising other parents’ kids 9. Matching outfit between father/son – daughter/mum 10. Using their children as an excuse to be unsociable

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If your social circle could do with a shake up, having a baby could help matters, according to new research. A study by Nature’s Purest has found that before the pitter-patter of tiny feet women typically have a circle of 13 friends on average but that grows to 22 in the year after the baby’s birth, as new mums bond with women who live nearby and who have also given birth. The survey found that 53 per cent of new mums felt it was surprisingly easy to make friends after having a baby and 70 per cent of those said it

EDUCATION

BUMPS & BABIES

It’s official; having children is good for a woman’s social life.

Education Directory

was because they had so much in common, with 73% saying they would happily regale new friends with stories about their labour. Almost 80 per cent have poured their heart out about their concerns of being good mum and the guilt over whether to go back to work after being on maternity leave. One in five have also discussed the baby blues with their mum pals. Other topics for discussion were breast feeding, sleepless nights, nappies and baby ailments. Nearly half of new mums made friends with other women at a mother and toddler group, 31 per cent struck up friendships in antenatal classes and a fifth met people through other friends.

Mixed high schools

Fazakerley High School Tel: 0151 524 4530 www.fazakerleyhigh.org Notre Dame College Tel: 0151 263 3104 www.notredameliverpool.com Parklands Tel: 0151 486 2612 www.parklands.liverpool.sch.uk Childwall School Tel: 0151 722 1561 www.childwallsc.co.uk King David High School Tel: 0151 235 1428 www.kingdavidliverpool.co.uk

All girls secondary schools

St Hilda’s CE High School Tel: 0151 733 2709 www.st-hildas.com St Julie’s School Tel: 0151 428 6421 www.stjulies.org.uk Holly Lodge Tel: 0151 228 3772 www.hollylodge.liverpool.sch.uk St John Bosco Arts College Tel: 0151 546 6360 www.stjohnboscoartscollege.com Bellerive School Tel: 0151 727 2064 www.bellerivefcj.org The Belvedere Academy Tel: 0151 727 1284 www.belvedereacademy.net

All boys secondary schools

De La Salle Academy Tel: 0151 546 3134 www.de-la-salle.co.uk St Margaret’s CoE High School Tel: 0151 427 1825 www.stmargaretshigh.com

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EDUCATION

Do summer babies fall behind? A recent analysis of Oxford and Cambridge admissions data obtained by the BBC seems to prove what many parents have long suspected: Babies born in the summer are often at a disadvantage throughout their education.

The data showed that a student born in October is 30% more likely to be offered a place at Oxbridge than someone of the same school year who was born in July. This disparity in educational achievement between children born at different times of the year has been troubling educators for decades. Examination group Cambridge Assessment have found – unsurprisingly – that it is children born in June, July and August who are at the greatest disadvantage, and say that while ‘specific Summer-born pupils may be progressing well... the strength of the effect for the group as a whole is an issue of very significant concern.’ Research recently published by the Institute for Fiscal Studies suggests that there are four main factors which lead to the disparities in academic achievement between children born at different times of the year. These are: The fact that children are different ages when they sit tests such as SATs; children start school at different ages; the amount of schooling they

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receive prior to taking exams and undergoing other assessment differs, and that children are at different relative ages throughout their schooling. So what can be done to help level the playing field? Experts suggest that education policy makers could consider tailoring when examinations are taken to the true ‘age’ of the child, so that a child born in September will be assessed several months before his friend in June, or alternatively weighting a student’s examination results to reflect their relative age. The good news is that the “birthdate effect” diminishes as children progress through their school career. The disadvantage for Augustborn children over September-born children in expected attainment reduces from 25% at Key Stage One to just 6% at GCSE and 1% at A Level, though experts at argue that the 6% disparity at GCSE can still have a significant impact on higher education prospects. However, with the quality of schooling, parental input and the efforts and ability of individual students all arguably more important factors impacting on academic attainment, there’s probably no need to worry if you’re due to give birth this Summer. Just ask Bill Clinton, Stephen Fry or Barack Obama – all born in August!

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EDUCATION

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EDUCATION

Could your child be stressed? While we may think of stress as a very adult malady – most commonly afflicting high-powered business executives and frazzled mums – experts claim that this generation of children are more stressed than ever. So how can parents spot the signs that their child is suffering from stress, and what can they do to help? Erika Brodnock, one of the UK’s leading experts on the subject of raising happy, successful children says that there are several tell-tale signs to look out for: “A child being regularly worried or anxious, having repeated trouble with sleeping, a sudden drop in school work/grades, massive changes in eating habits or nightmares out of the blue would be indicators

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that require further investigation. More obvious signs would be prolonged sadness without obvious reason, refusal to go to school or take part in usual routines and activities – i.e. a child locking themselves away for long periods of time. “Hyperactive behaviour, including constant fidgeting, twitching and tantrums may also be a sign of a mental health disorder and can often be mistaken for ‘bad behaviour’”. There are several things parents can do to help their child if they think he or she might be stressed. Simple steps such as encouraging children to regulate their breathing, eat well, drink plenty of water and get plenty of exercise will all help improve a child’s mood. More information can be found at www.karismakidz.co.uk

Have a look below for some great classes available near you! Kings Camps at King David High School

What? Kings Camps combine the best elements of sports and holiday clubs to provide fun and exciting adventures for young people and peace of mind for parents. When? 29th July - 2nd August,5th - 9th August, 12th - 16th August, 19th - 23rd August Where? Childwall Road, Liverpool Area, Liverpool L15 6UZ www.kingsfoundation.org

Holiday Active at David Lloyd

What: childcare for working parents or energetic children looking for fun activities and new friends. Each day is packed with fun games, sports, arts and crafts and swimming. The children have snacks and healthy meals, which is included in the price. Special offers and early booking discount available. When: Monday July 29th- Friday August 30th excluding weekends. Where: 6 The Aerodrome, Speke L24 8QD www.davidlloyd.co.uk

Kid-Zone Holiday Playschemes

What? Plenty to keep the kids entertained over the summer. Activities include table top games, art activities Outdoor activities, craft, role play, team games and much more. When? Throughout summer holidays Where? Old Roan Methodist Church, Altway Merseyside L10 2LQ. Other venues available www.kidzonenursery.com

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Greenbank Sports Academy

What? Children can enjoy sports, art, craft, dance, music sessions and off-site activities e.g. climbing wall and ten pin bowling. Attendance is flexible, so participants can attend for all or part of a day’s activities, however booking is essential. When? Throughout the summer holidays Where? Greenbank Lane, Liverpool Merseyside L17 1AG www.greenbanksportsacademy.co.uk

Horse Day, Acorn Farm

What? Activities include introduction to horses & equipment, riding games, stable management and horse quiz. Suitable for children 8-12 years old. When? 1st August Where? Depot Rd, Liverpool, Merseyside L33 3AR www.acornfarm.co.uk

AJ Dance

What? Dance classes for various ages and abilities. When? Most classes are on Saturdays. See website for details. Where? Archbishop Beck Community Sports and Tennis Centre, Crescent Road, L9 2AR. www.ajdance.co.uk

African & Caribbean Youth Dance Summer School

What? Join Merseyside Dance Initiative (MDI) for Tingalayo, their annual week of dancing, drumming and storytelling. The week culminates with a performance on Saturday 27 July at the Brouhaha International Festival in Princes Park. When? 22nd - 26th July Where? MDI, 24 Hope St, Liverpool, Merseyside www.mdi.org.uk

Multi Arts Holiday Clubs Liverpool

What? These multi arts clubs are aimed at 7 – 13 year olds encourages them to get involved with a wide range of art-forms When? Throughout summer holidays Where? 1a Brick Street, Baltic Triangle Liverpool L1 0BL or LJMU IM Marsh campus www.as-creatives.com

Performers Holiday Schools

What? These acting and musical theatre holiday schools for 7-19 year olds are taught by experienced industry professionals. They help to build confidence, concentration and communication skills. When? Various dates throughout holidays Where? The Cotton Factory, 8 Vernon Street (off Dale Street), Liverpool, L2 2AY. www.performersholidayschools.co.uk

Rare Studio Liverpool

What? Rare is a not for profit organisation, providing high quality training on the evenings and weekends for young people aged 5-18 in acting, dance and singing. When? Various dates throughout holidays Where? Studio, 132 Bold Street, Liverpool, L1 4JA www.rarestudioliverpool.co.uk

CLUBS & CLASSES

Clubs & Classes

Mad Science Holiday Camps

What? Mad Science camp gives children the chance to explore hands on science. Crack the case on ‘detective day’ or try your hand at ‘laser limbo’. Where? The Blue Coat School, Wavertree, L15 9EE When? Various weeks throughout summer. Please check website www.madscience.org/northwest

Sports Camp at Hope Park

What? Keep young ones occupied with this high octane holiday camp at Hope Park. Activities include netball, basketball, handball, cricket, tag rugby, hockey, trampoline, football and Gymnastics. When? 29th July - 30th August Where? Hope Park Sports, Liverpool Hope University, Taggart Avenue, Childwall, Liverpool, L16 9JD http://www.hope.ac.uk/hopeparksports/

All Souls Drama Sessions

What? Group drama lessons for children aged 3 – 12 years old. A great way to introduce your child to the performing arts When? Saturdays, 10am – 12pm Where? All Souls Church, Springwood Avenue, L19 4TF www.discovernplay.co.uk

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CLUBS & CLASSES

Pa rent Review

Hope Park Sports Camps

“My kids started attending the Sports Camps at Hope Park Sports when they were five, six and eight years old. They are now nine, 10 and 12 and they still love every minute of it - I have a job of it getting them out of the Sports Hall at the end of the day which is at 6.00pm and that’s after they have been there all day since 8.30am!

“Each night I am given a complete run down of what sports and games they carried out during the day, and on occasion I am also treated to some demonstrations, which is great because in our own leisure time we are able to keep active as a family by playing games they have been shown like cricket and basketball, I have also performed a gymnastic move or two, great fun!

Hope Park Sports Ca mps have helped Camps at Hope Park Sports time they go to h Eac . this ieve ach to m the friends, it’s a the camps they make new nd for them!” rou all nce erie exp ful der won peparksports

Visit www.hope.ac.uk/ho

“Since the kids have started, their sporty sides have increased massively, not only can they play the games, they know the rules and are also able to pass on the skills to their friends and cousins. Their social skills have come on leaps and bounds and I feel that the Sports

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CLUBS & CLASSES

Kids’ Clubs: Are they for your child? If you suspect the boundless energy of your little ones may prevent you properly relaxing on holiday this summer, help may be at hand. Many holiday resorts now offer kids’ clubs, so you can relax while your children burn off energy and make new friends. We take a look at what they are, and how they might help the whole family get the holiday they were hoping for.

Who offers kids’ clubs and how much does it cost?

Most large resorts will offer activities for children. Whether you have to pay an additional fee may depend on the holiday package you have purchased.

WIN

What ages do kids’ clubs cater for? This will differ from resort to resort, but generally speaking the youngest child they will admit will be around four and the oldest around 12. Of course, many holiday resorts also offer a crèche facility for younger children.

What will my children do?

Generally, children will get involved in a range of activities, with everything from games such as tennis to dancing, arts and crafts activities and even X-box championships! Of course, kids’ clubs are also a great way for your kids to make new friends.

What are the benefits for my child?

While lazing around the pool with a paperback may be precisely what you want to do on holiday, it’s likely that your child may have other ideas. Kids’ clubs are a great way to help your kids get the most out of their holiday while ensuring that you can still get exactly what you want out of those.

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a Party at Active Adventures, Otterspool Promenade! Family go live has teamed up with Active Adventures Liverpool, Liverpool’s newest outdoor activity centre, to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a party for eight children. If you’re looking for something a little bit different for a children’s party, Active Adventures has just the prize you have been looking for! Activities from High Ropes, Climbing, Abseiling, Maze, Simulated Parachute Drop, New Ice Rink and coming soon...Huge Indoor Play Area. You can mix and match the activities to make this prize extra special. The lucky winner will get the chance to choose two hours of activities, you can also enjoy the party food provided by Active Adventures afterwards. Booking is subject to availability, there is something for all ages & abilities from 5yrs old and up.

To WIN, just answer this question: What is the New activity at Active Adventures? e go to To enter the competition pleas etitions and www.familygolive.com/comp give us your answer.

WIN

Tickets to Drayton Manor!

Drayton Manor is home to some incredible rides and attractions. There is the Ben 10: Ultimate Mission rollercoaster and the hugely popular Thomas Land™ for children, which is celebrating its fifth Anniversary this year. There’s also a 15acre zoo, with over 100 animals from all over the world. But that’s not all, Drayton Manor also has the adrenaline-inducing drop-tower, Apocalypse, stand-up coaster, Shockwave, the splash-tastic log flume, Stormforce 10 and stomach-churning gyro-swing, Maelstrom, as well as a spectacular 4D Cinema where you can watch A Fish Story, The musical underwater adventure, sees Deepo, an orange Garibaldi fish, and Billy, a trainee at the aquarium who magically turns into a fish, travel on a journey to the depths of the ocean, encountering many different sea creatures along the way, such as lively dolphins, stinging jellyfish, kind-hearted sharks and singing sea turtles. Family Go Live has teamed up with Drayton Manor to offer 2 Family tickets for 2 adults and 2 children total value £216.00! To win, just answer this question:

Question – What is our new attraction in Thomas Land called opening this summer? To enter the competition please go to www.familygolive.com/competitions and give us your answer. Closing date 30th Aug 2013

Closing date 30th Aug 2013

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ticket for just £10 which covers two adults & up to three children for off peak travel for a whole day across the Merseyrail network and free car parking and cycle storage across the Merseyrail network, you need never hear the words “Mum I’m bored” again.

If corralling the kids into a hot car, fighting over which radio station to tune into and searching fruitlessly for parking spaces isn’t your idea of summer fun, fear not. Dozens of great days out are literally on your doorstep or just a short train ride away. For lots of ideas of how to keep the kids entertained during the school holidays with events and attractions that will stretch your minds and your legs but will not stretch your budget, visit the Merseyrail website at www. merseyrail.org/summerfun. With a Merseyrail Family

OUT & ABOUT

Let the train take the pain out of Summer holiday days out....

Chester Zoo

Antony Gormley’s Another Place, Crosby Beach

This surprisingly moving piece of outdoor art consists of 100 cast-iron, life-size figures spread out along three kilometres of the foreshore, all looking to sea in search of ‘another place’. Do check the tide levels before you set off, as sometimes the sculptures – which are made from casts of Antony Gormley’s own body – are fully submerged. Crosby is a non-bathing beach, and visitors should stay within 50 metres of the promenade at all times and not attempt to walk out to the furthest figures. Address: Mariners Road, Crosby Beach, Liverpool Station: Blundellsands and Crosby (5 minute walk)

With everything from meerkats to penguins, Chester Zoo is home to 8,000 animals, including some of the most exotic and endangered in the world. In the unlikely event of the children tiring of the animal magic on offer, there are also several play areas around the zoo, including climbing walls, mini golf, scramble nets, ladders and slides plus rockers and stepping stones for little ones. And if your child fancies going native, they can bring out their inner tiger with the fab face painting on offer. Address: Chester Zoo, Upton-by-Chester Station: Buy a combination ticket and take the Zoo Bus link from Chester station every 12 minutes Monday to Saturday or every 15 minutes on a Sunday.

Southport Pleasureland

Help your kids enjoy all the fun of the fair with a trip to Pleasureland in Southport. With free entry, this funfair is home to around 100 rides, an indoor play area, an arcade and even Southport’s premier F1 go-Kart track. It’s also boasts all your favourite seaside treats such as ice cream and candy floss and traditional games such as hook a duck. While there’s plenty of restaurants and cafes onsite, families can also bring a picnic to enjoy on one of Pleasureland’s many grassed areas. Address: Marine Drive, Southport, PR8 1RX Station: Southport (10 minutes)

Port Sunlight Village

Built to house the workers of the soap manufacturer Lever Brothers (now global giant Lever Brothers) in the 19th century, this village is said to be one of the finest surviving examples of early urban planning in the UK. The brainchild of William Hesketh Lever, a philanthropist with a passion for art and architecture, Port Sunlight village is set in 130 acres of beautifully maintained parkland. It boasts 900 houses and nearly every building in the village is Grade II listed, meaning it really is like stepping back in time. Visit Port Sunlight Museum, where you can learn all about the background of Port Sunlight, enjoy the beautifully quaint tea rooms or simply take a stroll around the village itself. Address: Port Sunlight Museum, 23 King George’s Drive,Port Sunlight Station: Port Sunlight Station (five minutes)

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Out & About Directory Barnardo’s Big Toddle Sponsored Walk, Chester Zoo

When? 2nd July - 5th July What? The Big Toddle is the UK’s biggest charity event for children aged 0 - 5. Join in this year as children get ready to take part in this short sponsored walk and have great fun with their friends. Anyone can join in - from nurseries, childminders and playgroups, to parents, friends and families. Where? Chester Zoo, Upton-by-Chester, Chester CH2 1LH www.chesterzoo.org

Bambi, The Atkinson

What? Take your kids on a trip to Southport to enjoy this perennially popular 1942 Disney feature. The story follows young Bambi the deer from the traumatic loss of his mother to his ascendancy to being the antlered Prince of the Forest, with lots of fun along the way provided by his woodland friends. When? 6th July Where? The Atkinson, Lord Street, Southport, Merseyside, PR8 1DB www.theatkinson.co.uk/

Weaving Workshop, World Museum Liverpool

Baltic Art and Craft Fair, Camp and Furnace

What? With limited edition prints, jewellery, photography, handcrafted carpentry, ceramics and glass, stationary, gifts and cards - there is something for everyone at this huge indoor market. You can even get away with dragging along the boys, as on match days the football is shown on the 6-metre big screen in the venue’s ‘Fan Park’. Each monthly event also hosts a specially designed themed craft workshop for adults and children. When? 6th July Where? Camp and Furnace, 67 Greenland Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 0BY www.campandfurnace.com

Stalls in the City, Liverpool One Art and Craft Fairs

What? This summer Liverpool ONE hosts some of the North West’s finest artists and designers in a series of arts & craft fairs. At each event shoppers can discover the work of over 20 artists and makers. The fairs combine a vibrant mix of art and craft creations including unique homewares, original prints and photography, handmade beauty products, glassware, upcycled accessories, textiles, candles, jewellery, stationary and much more. When? 12th and 13th July Where? Chavasse Park, Liverpool ONE, Liverpool, L1 8JQ www.liverpool-one.com

Indian Dance for Children

What? Join Indian dance group Swati Raut to learn the key steps of the Classical South Indian dance form of Bharatanatyam. When? 13th July Where? World Museum Liverpool, William Brown St, Liverpool, Merseyside L3 8EN www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk

What? See Princes Park transformed with this fantastic carnival with an international feel. Fantastic costumes, mouth-watering flavours and the all-round party atmosphere mean that this is one not to miss! When? 27th July Where? Princes Park, Liverpool,L8 2TA www.brouhaha.uk.com

Mind Bogglingly Big Bugs, Chester Zoo

What? This amazing exhibition of giant robotic bugs includes stupendous scorpions, extra-large ladybirds and spiders that are anything but incy-wincy. When? Throughout July and August Where? Upton-by-Chester, Chester CH2 1LH www.chesterzoo.org

Radio City Live, Echo Arena

What? Radio City Live returns for a massive summer party at Echo Arena. Previously Radio City Live brought you a huge line-up of stars including One Direction, JLS, Taio Cruz, Flo Rida, Labrinth, Little Mix and many more. When? 27th July Where? Echo Arena, Kings Dock, Liverpool Waterfront, Liverpool L3 4FP www.echoarena.com

Retro Sundays at Leaf on Bold Street Southport Comic Book Annual Show

Brazillica

What? Weaving has been used for thousands of years as a way of making cloth. Join members of the Merseyside Guild of Weavers to find out more and see some of the projects they are working on. When? 6th July Where? World Museum Liverpool, William Brown St, Liverpool, Merseyside L3 8EN www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk

What? Brazilica is a festival that brings a taste of Brazil’s carnival atmosphere to the streets of Liverpool. The festival has something for everyone including music dance, art, sport, culture, food and film for the whole family. When? 12th -20th July Where? Various venues. www.brazilicafestival.co.uk

Market at the Florrie

Dora the Explorer Live, Liverpool Empire

What? The Florrie is transformed into a market once a month, boasting beautiful craft stalls, home made goods, beauty products and delicious cakes, as well as general bric a brac, books and second hand goods. When? 6th July (first Saturday of every month) Where? The Florrie,377 Mill Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L8 4RB www.theflorrie.org

Brouhaha International Street Festival, Princes Park

What? In Nickelodeon’s Dora the Explorer Live! Search for the City of Lost Toys, Dora has lost her teddy bear Osito, and the search is on to retrieve him. With the help of the audience, Map, Backpack, Boots, Diego and their courageous friends, When? 12th -14th July Where? Liverpool Empire, Lime St, Liverpool, L1 1JE www.liverpoolempire.org.uk

What? A must for comic book aficionados, there’s everything from Marvel and DC Comics to Star Wars, Star Trek and Dr Who collectables. You can even meet Darth Vader and have your photo taken with a life size Dalek. When? 20th July Where? Christ Church, Lord Street, Southport, PR8 1AA www.mseevents.co.uk

80 Miles from Home, Unity Theatre

What? When a widowed farmer opens her home to eight Liverpool evacuees during WW2, all their lives are about to be changed forever. For big-hearted Auntie Flo the youngsters are a welcome distraction, and for the homesick kids, life on a remote Welsh farm brings freedoms and excitement they have never known. But when they hear a rumour there’s buried treasure on Flo’s land the real adventure begins. When? 26th & 27th July 2013 Where? Unity Theatre, 1 Hope Place, Liverpool, L1 9BG www.unitytheatreliverpool.co.uk

What? Fashionistas who want to stand out from the crowd will love this boutique vintage fair. Leave the high street behind and step into the world of vintage threads. When? 28th July Where? Leaf on Bold Street, Bold Street, Liverpool, L1 4EZ www.thisisleaf.co.uk

Late night tower trips, Liverpool Cathedral

What? The Cathedral Late Night Tower Openings experience allows you tremendous views across the city and beyond, and you can watch as twighlight turns to darkness revealing a whole new city-scape lit by neon and halogen. When? Thursdays throughout July and August Where? Liverpool Cathedral, St James’ Mount, Liverpool, L1 7AZ www.liverpoolcathedral.org.uk

Out & About Directory Disney Live! Mickey’s Rockin’ Road Show

What? Disney Live! Mickey’s Rockin’ Road Show is a live stage spectacular, as this original storyline unfolds, families will sing, dance and laugh along with the ever-lovable Tigger; Cinderella and her conniving stepsisters; Buzz Lightyear, Woody and friends from Disney Pixar’s Toy Story When? 1-4th August Where? Echo Arena, Kings Dock, Liverpool Waterfront, Liverpool L3 4FP www.echoarena.com

Music in Vale Park

What? Vale Park in New Brighton holds a variety of events throughout the summer from traditional children’s talent show to folk and brass band concerts. When? Various dates in August Where? Vale Park, New Brighton, Wirral, CH45 1LZ www.visitwirral.com

Southport Flower Show

What? This annual event features stunning show gardens, the finest flower and vegetable displays, specialist foods and books, celebrity guests and much more. When? 15th -18th August Where? Victoria Park, Rotten Row, Southport, Merseyside, PR8 2BZ www.southportflowershow.co.uk

National Geographic Kids Photography Course, Chester Zoo

National Exhibition of Wildlife Art

What? This is an annual open exhibition, promoting and displaying works by the best amateur and professional wildlife artists. It attracts visitors from throughout Britain and Europe to view the stunning works on display. When? Till the 4th August Where? Gordale Garden Centre, Chester High Road, Burton, South Wirral, CH64 8TF www.newa-uk.com

Living History Days at Martin Mere

What? Step back in time in our roundhouse village and live like a Viking. Take part in weapons training, watch fire lighting demonstrations, make music from wetland materials, make charcoal to draw your own picture, design a shield and much more to explore and take part in. When? 3rd -18th August Where? WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre, Fish Lane, Burscough, Lancashire, L40 0TA www.wwt.org.uk

What? Budding David Baileys will love this National Geographic Kids Photography Course at Chester Zoo, where they can learn how to take perfect animal snaps. Award-winning wildlife photographer Sue Flood will guide you around the zoo, helping you take awesome pictures of the zoo’s wildest characters. Youngsters will learn the secrets of wildlife photography, get loads of top tips and even be sent a free album of your favourite photographs too. There are only 15 spaces per session so parents are advised to book ASAP. When? 21st August Where? Chester Zoo, Upton-by-Chester, Chester CH2 1LH www.chesterzoo.org

International Beatles Festival

What? The annual International Beatleweek Festival celebrates the music of the most famous pop group the world has ever known. As well as live gigs, there are exhibitions, memorabilia sales, guest speakers, video shows, sightseeing tours and a convention. Festival venues include the Cavern Club and Cavern Pub in Mathew Street, the Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool Cathedral and the Philharmonic Hall. When? 21st - 27th August 2013 Where? Various venues www.cavernclub.org

Liverpool International Music Festival

What? This new incarnation of the Mathew Street Festival will kick off in classical style as the internationally acclaimed Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and chief conductor Vasily Petrenko will take to a brand new stage in Sefton Park for an evening of live music in the stunning surroundings of one of the city’s best-loved green spaces. On the Saturday and Sunday, there will also be two outdoor stages located at the Pier Head which will include a tribute to the Beatles and their musical legacy. When? 23rd – 26th August Where? Sefton Park and Liverpool City Centre www.mathewstreetfestival.org

Oakfield Manor Afternoon Tea, Chester Zoo

Stage Experience: Grease, Liverpool Empire

What? Join in the fun with Liverpool’s most talented performers aged 11 - 21 in the No. 1 Greatest Musical, Grease. This performance features all the unforgettable songs from the hit movie including You’re the One That I Want, Summer Nights, Hopelessly Devoted to You, and Greased Lightnin’ When? 22nd – 24th August Where? Liverpool Empire, Lime St, Liverpool, L1 1JE www.liverpoolempire.org.uk

Methusala Festival, Rock and River What? Methusala is a music festival held

over three days, featuring the best and ripest organically grown music. Festival goers can enjoy outdoor pursuits, camping, theatre, a market and just letting their hair down and dancing in a field! When? 23rd - 25th August Where? Rock & River, Wood Lane, Mawdesley, Lancashire. L40 2RL www.rockandriver.co.uk

What? Treat yourself to a delicious traditional high tea this August bank holiday, served up at Chester Zoo’s beautiful Victorian manor house. The treats on offer include warm scones with homemade jams and clotted cream, homemade green tea loaf and mini cup cakes. When? 26th August Where? Chester Zoo, Upton-by-Chester, Chester CH2 1LH www.chesterzoo.org

Shankly Bike Ride

What? Liverpool Football Club’s official charity, Liverpool FC Foundation, is hosting a unique charity bike ride to raise money to help improve people’s lives. This historic ride from Glasgow to Liverpool will take place during the lead up to the anniversary of Shankly’s 100th birthday and you will have the chance to ride with Liverpool FC Heroes Robbie Fowler and Steve Harkness. When? 29th August to 1st September Where? Ride finishes at the Pier Head www.foundation.liverpoolfc.com

AUGUST 2013

Diary Planner - JULY MON

SUN

THUR

WEDS

TUES 2

Disney Live! Mickey’s Rockin’ Road Show The Echo Arena

Bambi, The Atkinson

Barnardo’s Big Toddle Sponsored Walk Chester Zoo 7

SAT

FRI

THUR

WEDS

TUES

MON

SUN

SAT

FRI

Brazillica Various venues 14

Dora the Explorer Live, Liverpool Empire 21

Southport Comic Book Annual Show

Southport Flower Show Victoria Park 20

Stage Experience: Grease, Liverpool Empire 26

Liverpool International Music Festival

OUT & ABOUT

Restaurant Review

Archer’s Jersey Ice Cream Now that summer’s finally here, we thought it was about time we tried the new ice cream parlour everyone’s talking about – Archer’s Jersey Ice Cream on Lark Lane. My three-year-old and I took a short walk along ‘the lane’ to the specialist ice cream parlour after a visit to the swings in Sefton Park. It was a lovely sunny day so we were looking forward to indulging in some home-made ice cream.

We were greeted by the owner, Nick, who talked us through the wide variety of tempting flavours on offer, from classics such as ‘chocolate’ and ‘vanilla’ to the more unusual flavours like ‘pistachio’ and ‘Christmas pudding’. All were available in tubs or cones, which came in three different sizes. My son opted for a small chocolate cone, which was very generous in size and wonderfully rich and creamy.

Archer’s Jersey Ice Cream absolutely delicious and would make a good alternative to traditional birthday cake for parties. I also noticed that the ice cream was available to take home in tubs for the freezer, I will definitely be returning for one of those.

After deliberating between an ice cream cone or an ice cream Sundae, I opted for a waffle with toffee ice cream and caramel sauce. The combination was delicious and the quality of the ice cream was excellent. We sat next to the window on one of four tables, where we enjoyed our ice creams with the sun beaming in on us. I noticed a few quirky little touches, which give the place real character, such as the ice cream cone holders on every table and the coffee, served with a mini ice cream cone on the side. Nick, whose parents run Archer’s Jersey ice cream parlour in Heswall, explained that the creamy texture of Archer’s Jersey ice cream is partly down to the rich Jersey milk, which is produced on Archer’s farm in Yorkshire. He is clearly passionate about good ice cream and I have to agree with him that ‘there is nothing better than quality freshly made ice cream.’ Archer’s would be a great venue for a children’s ice cream party and they even have ice cream cakes on the menu for special occasions. They all looked The Essential Directory for Organised Parents

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The UK’s largest independent flower show, Southport Flower Show, returns this summer for its 84th year, 15-18 August 2013. Attracting around 70,000 visitors, the four day event will feature the very best in garden design, gourmet foods and entertainment. Carol Vorderman will be launching this year’s show and there will be a host of celebrities in attendance including Channel 4’s Landscape Man, Mathew Wilson. Local chef turned popular TV personality Simon Rimmer will also be demonstrating his skills in the celebrity kitchen. The Southport Flower Show has expanded significantly since its launch, and this year includes

OUT & ABOUT

Returns for its 84th Year!

a wide programme of food, books and entertainment, with the inclusion of the North West Food Festival, North West Book Festival, and a significant feature on Edible Gardens with a special Honey and Bees section. The show can also be enjoyed whatever the weather, thanks to the variety of covered marquees, and Victoria Park’s purpose built drainage system and level surfaces. With plenty to do for all the family, from lectures and readings, to cookery presentations, and a rich and varied programme of music performed at the bandstand, The Southport Flower Show 2013 is not to be missed!

For tickets and all the latest information on the show, visit www.southportflowershow.co.uk Tickets bought in advance cost just £16* which is £5 off the gate price on the day and children under 16 go free.

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A summer day at Speke Hall With our Victorian maze, children’s play area, family tracker packs – not to mention outdoor ping-pong, indoor billiards and woodland walks: Speke Hall is a great place to bring the kids this summer. Speke’s a top place to explore and enjoy the outdoors: try some of our ’50 Things to do before you’re 11 ¾’ activities including tree climbing, stone skimming, and bird watching. Make sure you tick off the activities you do in our special ’50 Things’ scrapbooks available at Speke Hall. Try the new kids’ menu in Home Farm Restaurant or stop by our new Stables Tea Room for a lighter bite, delicious cake, ice cream or hot and cold drinks. Then head out for a walk along our estate walk with great views across the Mersey or take a wander through Speke’s ancient woodlands. On the way back pop into the newly restored Victorian kitchen garden and see our busy bees at work. In order to win one of ten family tickets to Speke Hall please answer the following question?

What has been newly restored at Speke Hall this season? e go to To enter the competition pleas etitions and www.familygolive.com/comp give us your answer. Closing date 30th Aug 2013

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If you like your food served up with lashings of glamour, oodles of style and perhaps topped with a 1960s beehive then look no further than this year’s Liverpool Food and Drink Festival, where celebrity chef Gizzi Erskine will be topping the bill. Best known for presenting Channel Four’s ‘Cook Yourself Thin’ and a regular on This Morning, the TV chef and food writer will be demonstrating recipes from her new book ‘Skinny Weeks and Weekend Feasts’ as she headlines a programme of live demos and master classes at the festival, which will take place in Sefton Park on the 7th and 8th September.

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She’ll be joined by more than 160 Merseyside chefs serving up the finest fayre from their restaurants, and a host of regional producers selling everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to honey and artisan bread. The weekend event will include a beer festival, with 50 different real ales and ciders, a champagne bar and music from local bands. Chocoholics will be delighted by the ‘heavenly chocolate garden’

packed with every type of chocolate imaginable, while youngsters will love the dedicated interactive children’s zone – sponsored by Family Go Live. Budding young foodies will also love getting the chance to unleash their inner Nigella or Jamie at the Junior Chefs’ Academy.

OUT & ABOUT

And though bellies may be full after the weekend’s epicurean feast, the fun certainly doesn’t stop on Sunday evening, with festivities set to continue for the rest of the week (7-15th September) with a packed programme of food and drink events at bars, cafes, restaurants and arts venues across the city.

What to expect at this year’s Liverpool Food and Drink Festival 7th & 8th September

Gizzi Erskine, who trained at Leith’s School of Food and Wine, commented: “I’ve heard great things about Liverpool Food & Drink Festival so I’m really excited about coming to experience the event for myself. “I love the idea that so many local chefs come together to put on a feast in the middle of a park, and with all the demos and master classes going on as well, it promises to be a fantastic weekend.” Tickets start from £5 online and Family Go Live is sponsoring free entry for children under 14.

For the latest news and developments on the Liverpool Food & Drink Festival, visit www.liverpoolfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk or follow @livfooddrink on Twitter.

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Local Services Directory

Solicitors and legal advice

Tigger will be encouraging audiences to get out of their seats and enjoy bouncing, singing and dancing when Disney Live! Mickey’s Rockin’ Road Show comes to EchoTwo @ Echo Arena Liverpool from 1-4 August. We caught up with him in between bounces to ask how he managed to stay fit and healthy and stay tigger-riffic! Q: Tigger, you are famous for having fun and bouncing, why do you bounce so much? A: ‘Cause bouncin’s what Tiggers do best! And besides, bouncin’ makes you smile and a smilin’ Tigger’s a happy Tigger! Q: What’s your favourite snack to refuel yourself after bouncing? A: Well, I’ll tell you what I don’t like: Thistles! They’re hot! Yuck! But I do like vegetables from Rabbit’s garden from time to time – carrots, celery, lettuces.

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Q: You must use up lots of energy at Disney Live! Mickey’s Rockin’ Road Show. Most people need about eight hours sleep every night. Do you ever get tired? A: Nope. Tiggers never get tired ‘cause we’re bouncy, troucy, flouncy, pouncy, fun-fun-fun – (snoring). Q: Tigger? Tigger? Goodness, looks like he’s started his eight hours right here and now. We’ll let him sleep. Thanks Tigger.

Home and garden support

Instant Pest Solutions Tel: 0151 345 0556 www.liverpool-pestcontrol. co.uk King Of Spades Garden Maintenance Tel: 07963 411 828 www.kingofspadesuk.com CM Decorators LTD Tel: 07967 784 763 www.cmdecoratorsltd.co.uk Aigburth Guttering Specialist Tel: 0151 427 8062 www.gutteringliverpool.info

Morecrofts Solicitors Tel: 0151 236 8871 www.morecroft.co.uk Atlantic Chambers Tel: 0151 236 4421 www.atlanticchambers.co.uk Paul Crowley Tel: 0151 264 7363 www.paulcrowley.co.uk Jackson Canter Tel: 0151 282 1700 www.qualitysolicitors.com/ jacksoncanter/ Alpha Mortgage Advice Tel: 0151 924 6070 www.alphamortgageadvice.co.uk

Transport

Excel Private Hire Tel: 0151 728 8888 www.excelprivatehire.co.uk Delta Tel: 0151 922 7373 www.deltataxis.net Merseytravel Tel: 0151 227 5181 merseytravel.gov.uk

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LOCAL SERVICES

OUT & ABOUT

Tigger’s Tips for feeling tip top!

Take it to a ‘Bring Bank’

Clothes, footwear and textiles such as bedding can all be recycled and the best place to recycle them is at one of the ‘bring backs’ located throughout Merseyside and Halton, most often found in the car parks of large supermarkets.

The UK’s clothes purchasing habits are having serious environmental consequences. We’re purchasing 2.15 million tonnes of new clothing annually, and to make room for these new buys, we’re sending over1.4 million tonnes of clothing to landfill each year. If you want to stop being part of the problem, here’s a few things you can do to stop your old threads going to waste.

Sell it

One man’s meat is another man’s poison, so whether you’ve outgrown that jumper or it’s just your taste that has moved on, there’s bound to be someone out there who it’s perfect for If you’d like to raise a few extra pennies by selling your clothes, eBay or car boot sales are a good place to start.

Donate it

Local charities are always on the lookout for good quality second hand clothing, so bag up what you don’t want and help your local charity raise money for a good cause. If you haven’t got access to a car, many organisations, such as the British Heart Foundation, will arrange to come and collect the clothing from your doorstep.

LOCAL SERVICES

Throwing out that old dress? Stop right there!

Clothes that are not Suitable for re-use are shredded and used for soft furnishing filling or rags in industry. You may think that tired-looking old sock with a hole in is of no use to anyone, but it can still be recycled and put to use!

... Join the debate at

familygolive.com

Diverting textile waste from landfill by re-using and recycling it provides a great opportunity for Merseyside to improve resource efficiency, reduce environmental impact and support the local economy, third sector and local charities’

It has been identified that 4.5% of the residual household waste stream is made up of textiles and shoes which could have been recovered for re-use and recycling. This is approximately 22,000 tonnes. The Merseyside Textile Forum, which includes charities, local authorities and other stakeholders, has been established in a bid to increase the diversion of this material from landfill. Please pass on your unwanted textiles using either your local charity shop, your textile bring bank at the supermarket or the Household Waste Recycling Site. For more information visit www.recycleformerseysideandhalton.com

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“It may come as a surprise, but grandparents have no automatic legal rights over their grandchild. However, if they are being prevented from seeing their grandchildren, there are steps they can take to redress the situation. “As grandparents do not normally have the right to apply for a contact order, they will need to obtain the permission of the court to proceed before making such an application. This will always be the case unless the grandchild has been living with the grandparents

“Luckily, obtaining permission to make an application is normally straightforward as long as the grandparents can prove to the court that they have a real interest in the child and are committed to their welfare. “With this permission granted, grandparents can then apply for contact to the child. As you would expect, the child’s welfare and safety are placed at the heart of this process, and permission will only be granted if it can be proved that having regular contact with their grandparents will have a positive impact on their life. “If this is deemed to be the case, and the contact order is made, the terms of that order will remain binding until either the child reaches maturity or a further order is made by the court.”

If you have a family law issue you would like to talk about then please contact Joanne Ritson on 0151 226 2020 or visit www.paulcrowley.co.uk

Family Go Live launches Coffee House Chat at David Lloyd, Speke Following the success of our first ever Coffee House Chat at David Lloyd gym in Speke, we now have two new events planned in for this summer. The next meetings, which is aimed at parents with children aged 0-2, will take place on

FE COF E HOU

LOCAL SERVICES

When parents split, all too often it is the grandparents who suffer, with the breakdowns in the relationship unfortunately leading to grandparents being left out in the cold. However, while grandparents do not have the right to access their grandchildren, there are steps they can take to ensure that they remain a big part of their lives. Joanne Ritson, Solicitor, of Paul Crowley & Co Solicitors tells us more...

in question for three years or more, or they have the consent of all parties with parental responsibility to apply, although in which case, they probably wouldn’t need to do so!

CHAT SE

Grandparents and access rights

Tuesday 16th July and Tuesday 13th August, both at 10.30 am. The informal event is a great chance to meet other mums and dads, share tips on sleeping, weaning and helping your child develop. You’ll also get to meet the team behind Family Go Live magazine, and find out about what’s on for parents and children in your area.

To book your space please email info@familygolive.com

Help your pets have a puurfect holiday season One member of the family who is probably not relishing the prospect of you jetting off in search of sun, sea and sand this summer is your family pet, who is unlikely to be joining in the fun. However, hiring a pet sitter can be a great way to ensure your holiday has the minimum impact on your pet.

Using a professional pet sitting company will also mean you have access to sitters with harder to find skills e.g. not being fazed by the prospect of nurturing a tarantula for a fortnight.

What are the benefits of using a petsitter?

It is normally less stressful for your pets, and having someone visit your house daily will also mean that it is less obvious to burglars that you are on holiday.

What does a pet sitter do?

Depending on the type of pet you have, a pet sitter will either visit your house daily to care for your pets, or actually live in your property while you’re away.

What are the advantages of going through a professional pet sitting company? Reputable pet sitting companies will ensure their sitters are CRB checked, fully insured, and at the very least you should be able to ask for references from the company. The Essential Directory for Organised Parents

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A SIMPLICITY HAND HELD FELTING MACHINE & A YEAR’S SUPPLY OF SEWING PATTERNS Simplicity- the sewing pattern specialists - are giving away the ultimate pattern starter kit, with a year’s supply of Simplicity patterns of our lucky winner’s choice, plus an electric hand felting machine. The hand felting machine is ideal for crafters, allowing you to create a range of customised items by effortlessly meshing together wool fibres. The winner can choose their favourite sewing patterns from www.simplicitynewlook. com – offering an extensive collection of

patterns, from easy make starter patterns to stand out items for the home and vintage inspired children’s clothing.

To enter just answer this question: What is felt made from? To enter the competition please visit our website familygolive.com and give us your answer. Closing date 30th Aug 2013

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

LOCAL SERVICES

WIN

Health & Beauty Directory

Voodou Tel: 0844 445 7889 www.voodou.co.uk The Physiotherapy Centre Tel: 0151 724 2060 www.thephysiotherapycentre.co.uk Herbalife Tel: 07749 785 441 www.herbalife.co.uk Liverpool Women Get Active Tel: 0151 233 5261 Greens Health and Fitness Tel: 0151 707 6000 www.greenfitness.co.uk NuPura Spa & Beauty Tel: 07873 868 694 www.nupuraspa.com Aesthetically You Tel: 0151 427 0014 www.aestheticallyyou.co.uk

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Summer should be a time of tinkling ice cream vans, lazy afternoons in the garden and trips to the beach, but for many the season also means a return of their archnemesis...Pollen. As the cause of hay fever seasonal bringer of itching eyes, sneezing and runny noses - pollen brings misery to 15 million Britons from early spring to late summer. Hay fever often first develops in early childhood, with more than a third of youngsters suffering by the time they reach their teen years.

Become the Foundation of our Trust Liverpool Community Health are planning to become an NHS Foundation Trust, but we can’t do it without you. Our 65 different services deliver care to you in Liverpool, Sefton, Knowsley, and St Helens and now you have the chance to shape the future of community health services in your area.

For school-age children, symptoms such as itchy eyes, blocked noses and headaches, can even have a detrimental effect on concentration. Children’s allergy specialist Dr Adam Fox says: “Often hay fever is trivialised, but in reality it can have a considerable effect on children’s ability to concentrate in the class and exam room. I would urge parents to take the condition seriously and consider using a non-medicated treatment that won’t leave their children drowsy and unable to focus on their school work.” Parents can also take simple steps to help relieve their children’s hay fever. It tends to peak in the late afternoon/early evening so keeping children indoors and windows closed during these times will help, and encouraging children to show and change their clothes at the end of the day will wash away any residual pollen that may be clinging to clothes and hair.

Summer holiday beauty must haves for under £10 Sun cream and aftersun are no brainers, but they’re not the only beauty must-haves you’ll need on holiday. We’ve scoured the shops to round up some of the best holiday beauty buys which will leave you with change from a tenner...

Carmex Moisture Plus Ultra Hydrating Lip Balm Peach Sheer Tint SPF15

If you want to keep your lips protected in the sun and stay looking cool by the pool, then look no further than this lip balm from Carmex. Formulated with Vitamin E, Aloe and Shea Butter this lip balm provides sumptuous moisture, a hint of colour and shine and an SPF of 15. £4.49

Lee Stafford Beach Babe Sea Salt Spray

They say if you can’t beat them, join them, so if you’re a fan of the tousled, windswept look your hair takes on after a day on the beach, why not up the ante with this sea salt spray from Lee Stafford.

Containing sunflower extract to help provide moisture and shine and a ProMineral complex of Dead Sea salts, this spray will help you get that just-left-the-beach look, even if you’ve spent all day indoors getting your money’s worth out of the allinclusive buffet. £7.49

Jungle Formula medium pump

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Kick pollen into touch this summer

It may not be the most glam addition to your holiday suitcase, but if you don’t want to end up as a tasty treat for our winged friends this summer, investing in a decent insect repellent is essential. This nonaerosol pump spray contains 20% DEET – the active ingredient used in insect repellents - so is perfect protection for countries with no risk of malaria or other insect transmitted diseases. Suitable for adults and children of three years and older, this spray will provide up to eight hours protection. £8.15

17 Waterproof Mascara

If you want to keep those peepers looking perfect by the pool, but don’t want to break the bank, look no further than this budget mascara from Boots’ 17 brand. Both waterproof and smudge resistant, this mascara promises to lengthen lashes with no clogging and to keep your eyes looking perfect even after swimming. £4.69

Sign up as a member and have a real influence on the future of your healthcare. Join us – and become the foundation of our Trust. For more information visit www.liverpoolcommunityhealth.nhs.co.uk Email membership@liverpoolch.nhs.uk or Twitter @nhsliverpoolch

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