Flying Start Magazine by Magenta Press Ltd

P R E G N A N C Y \ B I R T H \ E A R LY Y E A R S L E A R N I N G & D E V E L O P M E N T

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Christmas Gifts Galore

Pla Disney g e Ba Goodi

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Top tips to help kick the bedwetting habit

Help....

It’s Time for Homework!

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Book Reviews

Read All About It

9 12 28 34 46 48 52 56 66

Keep in shape, healthy and learn to relax with these four fantastic books

In Flying Start’s news pages

Competitions Playhouse Disney goodie bags up for grabs!

Christmas Gifts Galore! Hundreds of gift ideas for you and your little ones this Christmas

Christmas Day Recipes Annabel Karmel brings you some fantastic savory and sweet dishes for your family this festive season

Live the Family Dream Flying Start takes a look at Antigua in this family holiday special

Fashion Vintage style children’s fashion with a thoroughly modern edge

Children’s Health Read about colds, flu, chickenpox and how to stop bedwetting in just seven days

Help... It’s Time for Homework Sue Atkins of positiveparents.com offers confident kid tips to help with homework

Considering Adoption The British Association of Adoption and Fostering talks about common adoption misconceptions

BETT 2010 Discover what’s instore for teachers, parents and carers at the worlds largest education in technology show.

Flying Start Group of Publications are published by Magenta Press Ltd 45 Centurion House, Centurion Way, Leyland, Lancashire, PR25 3GR Telephone the advertising office on 01772 436518, 641536 or 459418 or email editorial@flyingstartmagazine.co.uk. Visit www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk/contact_us/termsconditions for full terms & conditions. Cover Image © johann35 - Fotolia.com

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โ Womenโ s Health For Life is a celebration of everything that women are โ our health, both physical and mental, and the thousands of miracles that keep our delicate bodies in balance.โ Dr Sarah Jarvis 8PNFO UPEBZ BSF MJWJOH MPOHFS UIBO UIFJS NPUIFST BOE NVDI MPOHFS UIBO UIFJS HSBOENPUIFST 0WFSBMM PVS RVBMJUZ PG MJGF JT CFUUFS BOE XF

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celebrating the bump.

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The Bump Wear Project was launched to do just that – provide impartial advice on the latest looks and collections. It aims to make looking good when pregnant a little bit easier by finding the right clothes, regardless of age, shape, style and budget.

THE BUMP WEAR PROJECT The Bump Wear Project was launched earlier this year when its founder, Claire Chaplin, was 31 weeks pregnant. She became passionate about maternity clothing early in her pregnancy after her first attempt at shopping for suitable clothes ended in tears. The second attempt, online this time, was slightly more successful, but not exactly fun. And when shopping isn’t a wonderful experience, she knew something was amiss! Claire decided that she couldn’t be the only one finding clothes for her changing body an uncomfortable experience, yet she could not find any impartial websites dedicated solely to maternity fashion and

The founding principles of the site are the Golden Rules, which they believe if followed can help you look and feel great. The first and foremost of these is: Be yourself - Don’t forget your personal style. If you wouldn’t wear it when you weren’t pregnant DON’T buy it now. Stay true to yourself. Find clothes in the style you love, but cut to fit your new body shape. And who can argue with that? But the site does more than just look at maternity clothing collections, it also:

Has a directory of maternity wear and includes categories such as ‘from Bump to Baby’ and ‘the fourth trimester’ Has a team of ladies in all stages of their pregnancy who review items for the site Another bonus, is it will search for the best, on trend and stylish items and let you know where you can buy them and at what price. It ensures that you can get key items for whatever your budget, for example, their feature on winter coats included those that ranged from £35 to £249. So there is something for everyone! So if you have a bump to rock, get over to The Bump Wear Project: http://bumpwearproject.com and get involved!

Celebrates bumps by allowing readers to ‘Rock their Bump’ – by sending in images of what they wore when they felt great, and also a written commentary to help inspire others. Finds the biggest bargains on the web and brings them to their readers Has contributions from experts who provide features on areas like maternity lingerie

............................................................................................................ TEACHERS SCARED TO LEAVE CLASSROOM

under the Freedom of Information Act, TCAF found;

New research revealed children are being denied school trips for fear teachers will be sued if something goes wrong The Countryside Alliance Foundation commissioned the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER) to include questions in its Teacher Voice survey. It found

Of the millions of individual school trips taken over the past 10 years, only 364 ended in legal action

Of the 1400 teachers surveyed, 97% of teachers thought it important that pupils learn about the countryside within the National Curriculum. 76% felt the main barrier in taking pupils to the countryside to facilitate learning was 'concerns about health and safety'. 49% of teachers felt that a main barrier was ‘fear of litigation in the unlikely event of an accident’. In response requests made by TCAF

In fewer than half of cases, 156, were schools found to be culpable and ordered to pay compensation. Over a ten year period the total amount of compensation paid out was £404,952.14, meaning on average local authorities paid out just £293.44 per year in compensation between 1998 and 2008. The Countryside Alliance Foundation and Young Poll also questioned 2127 children aged 6-15 as part of their research. The survey found Whilst 85% of young people would like the chance to be able to enjoy activities like fishing, falconry and farm visits through school, only 46% of children actually had been on a trip to the countryside with their school in the past year

A substantial 64% said they did not feel they learnt enough about the countryside at school. The research backs up the Countryside Alliance’s Rural Manifesto, which calls for outdoor learning to feature on the school curriculum. Simon Hart, chief executive of the Countryside Alliance, said: “Statistically, the chances of accidents happening are low and we are working to explode the myths that the countryside is any more dangerous than anywhere else. The benefits of practical countryside education far outweigh the concerns. The Countryside Alliance wants to facilitate outdoor learning for the next generation without teachers feeling threatened by 'compensation culture'. It believes by making the countryside more accessible for teachers and pupils, learning will be enhanced and pupils will be tolerant and understanding of the countryside”

ANTHEA TURNER OFFERS SOME FAB TOP TIPS FOR A STRESS-FREE CHRISTMAS

The Perfect Christmas by Anthea Turner is in bookshops now. www.theperfectchristmas.co.uk

............................................................................................................ GET YOUR KIDS FEELING GOOD The Feel Good Drinks Company has launched a new Feel Good Kids range of gorgeous, juicy kids drinks in a handy, child-friendly, wedge carton! Offering the good stuff parents are looking for, Feel Good Kids are made from 100% natural ingredi-

ents, with no added sugar or nasties, and are blended from 2/3 juice and 1/3 water, offering maximum refreshment and hydration. The brightly coloured packs feature a “how do you doodle” feature, inviting kids to send in their very own Feel Good doodles. If chosen, your little cherub’s ‘work of art’ could be featured on a future pack!

............................................................................................................ THE HOTTEST CITY PRAM PUSHED BY ONE OF NEW YORK’S HOTTEST MUMS

The Cybex Callisto is the ultimate in city pram with its ultra lightweight chassis that stands out because of its fashion forward design. The Callisto’s comfort suspension and ease of use makes city life a breeze.

The pushchair is suitable from birth up to three years old and can be used in conjunction with the Cybex Aton infant carrier as a travel system and as a lie flat pram when used with a coordinat -ing accessory carrycot.

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Sex in the City siren Sarah Jessica Parker has been spotted around town looking every part the stylish city mum with her four months old surrogate twin daughters Marion Loretta Elwell and Tabitha Hodge. Just as SJP’s alter ego, fashionista Carrie Bradshaw, would only accept the best of the best, so it comes as no surprise she has chosen the hottest City Pram around. The Cybex Callisto from Mamas & Papas offers elegance and agility to a busy working mum.

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1. You don’t need to spend a fortune on Christmas decorations. Homemade ones, especially by children can look very homey. If you’ve made them and they go wrong feel free to blame the kids anyway! 2. Don’t feel you have to make everything from scratch. No one will know the mince pies are from the supermarket – I haven’t made my own in years! 3. Plan ahead. Chocolates and nuts won’t go off if you get them in early, just try not to snack on them in advance. 4. Christmas is the time of year when your house is very much your home. Give it a thorough clean the month before, that way you won’t be rushing round at the last minute, and don’t forget the oven, as your Turkey will be going in it.

5. Remember to take a break from it all. A ten minute chat with a friend will remind you that everyone is stressed at Christmas, and you can both let off steam. 6. Why spend hours peeling potatoes when your great aunt or mother in law are looking for ways to help. Delegate all the small jobs you can. 7. While you’re out dashing round the shops, give yourself a break. Stop for lunch and treat yourself to a sandwich from M&S which will benefit Shelter this Christmas. Money for this little Christmas pick me up will go towards Shelters free housing advice line helping someone facing homelessness this Christmas. 8. Don’t get your M&S knickers in a twist! Remember, Christmas dinner is just a Sunday lunch with a cracker!

MONTHLY COST OF RAISING A CHILD NOW 35% MORE...

...THAN AVERAGE UK MORTGAGE REPAYMENT As the cost of raising a child reaches an estimated £769 per month – nearly £200 more than the average UK monthly mortgage repayment - Busy Bees Childcare Vouchers, the UK’s leading provider of childcare voucher schemes is advising parents to check they are getting all the benefits they are entitled to. Figures released earlier this year reveal parents could be spending up to £193,772* on raising a child from birth to the age of 21, the equivalent to £769 a month. With the average monthly mortgage repayment in the UK calculated at £572**, the growing cost of raising a child is placing increased pressure on family budgets. Simon Moore, managing director of Busy Bees, which is soon to be known as Computershare Voucher Services, said: “Having a child is a wonderful life-changing 8 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

experience, but it is easy to under-estimate how expensive it can be. For example, for many families, giving up work to care for a child full time is just not possible or practical, so childcare quickly can become a main expenditure. “As money remains a top concern for most families in the current climate, we are advising all parents to take advantage of all familyfriendly schemes, such as childcare vouchers, that can save them thousands each year.” Busy Bees Childcare Vouchers administer voucher schemes for 110,000 working parents across the UK. Government-backed childcare vouchers allow parents to exchange up to £243 per month of their gross salary for the same amount of tax-free and National Insurance-exempt childcare vouchers. The vouchers can then be put towards a diverse

range of registered childcare provided for children up to the age of 16, including holiday and activity clubs, music lessons, nursery care and au pairs. Both parents can request childcare vouchers to potentially double the saving and the scheme is open to basic and higher rate tax-payers.

GROWING PAINS The Early Years = £27,615 A recent study of more than 3,000 new mothers in the UK has revealed that from birth to age three a baby will typically cost its parents £27,615 to raise, including baby and maternity wear, childcare, toys, furniture and food. For the parents of toddlers, childcare is the single biggest expense. Working mums also lose an estimated £6,667.65 in income while on maternity leave, according to the study by parenting website

gurgle.com The Junior Years (6-18) = £94,996 Childcare from six months until the age of 14 could cost as much as £53,818, or £332 a month, for a typical UK household with two working parents, including nursery fees of £35,854 from six months to school age, £14,319 for after school clubs, and £3,645 for holiday clubs. Schooling Parents putting their child through private school could pay up to an additional £71,660 or £129,260 if their child boards. Busy Bees Childcare Vouchers administers voucher schemes for working parents via 14,000 organisations. From autumn, the company will be known as Computershare Voucher Services Ltd, as part of a co-ordinated rebranding programme that includes a new automated administrative system and new website.

Zoom along to Playhouse Disney to catch this all new animated series... “Jungle Junction”, is a brand new high-energy animation for preschoolers. Set deep in the heart of an unexplored, road-filled Jungle, the show features a group of fun-loving animals on wheels and aims to help preschoolers develop their pre-literacy skills, as well as encouraging them to care about the environment. The CG-animated series follows the wheeled animals of Jungle Junction as they zoom their way through the jungle on fast-moving, fun adventures. Part animal, part vehicle, the residents include Zooter, an energetic pink pig scooter who is the jungle messenger, Ellyvan, a cross between an elephant and a van who provides the jungle residents with their delivery service, and the Beetlebugs who are the playful kids of the jungle, always eager to learn. Each 25 minute episode follows the story of one of the key characters solving a problem they need to

overcome. Like all Playhouse Disney programming, humour and fun are an integral part of the show, so learning becomes an enjoyable and playful experience for preschoolers. The series is underpinned by an innovative curriculum that encourages preschoolers to be aware of their impact on the natural world and helps them foster an early appreciation for the environment. In addition, the show works to develop pre-literacy skills through the use of road signs and symbols that are placed all over the jungle. Preschoolers are invited to decipher the signs as part of the storyline to help them understand their meaning in the everyday world.

Developed and produced at award-winning Spider Eye animation studios in London and Cornwall, the series has been created by Trevor Ricketts executive-produced by Erica Darby and directed by Morgan Francis. Brian Neish ("Little Robots") served as curriculum consultant on the series. Make sure your children don’t miss out on this fantastic new series - tune into Playhouse Disney today!

The educational elements of the show are punctuated by a catchy reoccurring song, “Gotta Zip”. This provides a fun musical transition as the characters figure out how to overcome their obstacles and

Win a Playhouse Disney Goodie Bag worth £15. Your child will be entertained for hours with this Playhouse Disney Goodie bag jam-packed with colouring pens and pencils, modelling clay , paints and crayons. All neatly stored in this funky Playhouse Disney carry case along with a protective apron to avoid mess! To enter, simply send your name, address and email on a postcard to: Playhouse Disney Competition Flying Start Magazine, 45 Centurion House, Centurion Way, Leyland, Lancashire, PR25 3GR. Closing date 30th January 2010

travel at speed around the Jungle Junction road network to reach their solution.

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At just eight, Sonny is our youngest contributor to date! He's not a newbie writer though as he already has his own really successful blog. When he's not busy reviewing products he can be found training at his local trampolining club or with his head firmly in his Kumon maths work. If that's not enough - he is also a child model! If you would like to have a look at his blog you will find him at www.totallysonny.com I had been wanting a new scooter for ages. I do have one but it was my big brothers when he was little and it was getting a bit old. I also had a bit of an accident on it recently when we both went opposite ways but met on the road. Owch.....

Images by Ethan Reddick-Holt ethan@reddick.co.uk

Then one day a couple of weeks ago there was a knock on our door and the delivery man left a big box, that I thought was for mummy because she gets all of the good post. But no - it was for me! I hurriedly opened the box to find that there was a brand new scooter inside. The scooter is the new Maxi Micro. FunnyGirl has one of the smaller versions and she has played with it for at least a couple of years. This new scooter is for children aged 5+, so perfect for me. I was eager to get outside and onto my new scooter but dad pointed out that I was still wearing my PJ's! I raced upstairs and got dressed in super quick time. When I came back downstairs I dug to the bottom of the box and I found another handle. This one is like a stick rather than a normal handle. I think that it's like a skateboard with handle. So I think that I will let the pictures do the talking - here is the test in action. It all started well - nice sunny day, I'm looking cool. Lots of nifty moves, tricks no problemo. It was all going so well..... then......

owch!!!

Then FunnyGirl decides that she wants in on the action and gets her Mini Micro scooter out... Do I see a race opportunity before me?

Well, being such a nice big brother I decided that it wasn't nice to beat the girls and so left them to it!

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I give the new Maxi Micro Scooter a Totally Sonny rating of 9.5/10. It rocks - and the girls are totally jealous that I have one and they don't! If they are super nice to me, I may let them have a go! Read my blog www.totallysonny.com

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G T F I G

Loves...

“Born 2 $hop" Pink Glitter Dummy £5.99

These trendy Converse all stars customised by hand with Swarovski crystals... Blingtastic! Available in Prewalker crib shoes and hard soles for toddlers. Also available in adult sizes too for matching mummy and me! £54.99-£59.99

www.mummysonlinebabyshop.com Former Chelsea and Leeds footballer Michael Duberry and his wife Natasha have set up a fabulous new website for trendsetting babies and toddlers The website brings together under one roof, the most unique and funky baby collections from all over the world and offers a wide

selection of the trendiest products such as Six Bunnies, Personalized Pacifiers, Baby Bling Crystal Converse, Mini Mink , Amplified Kids, Baby Bloch, Oh Baby London, Paul Frank and the much raved about Flatout bears! They also stock brands that are not sold anywhere else in the UK, such

as Sam and Bellie, Rock and Rattle, Born to love clothing, Urban Tots, Baby Rock Apparel, Rufflebutts, Tribal Baby, Urban Bratz and Wee Revolution. Mummy’s Online Baby Shop is the perfect place to shop if you want your baby to stand out from the crowd. Many of

Six bunnies Tatoo Baby Gro in Blue £29.99

Kit N Kin Sunnies White T Shirt £17.99

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the items come in quirky packaging making the perfect gifts for births and baby showers and a luxury personalised gift wrapping service is available. So, if you are bored with the High Street and want something a bit different for your child then you need look no further

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www.millybee.com

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Make nurseries havens of tranquillity with Milly Bee’s new Up and Away balloon picture collection. These lovely prints make a soothing addition to children’s rooms as cute animals float up in to the calm skies on board their pretty hot air balloons. Little ones will be mesmerised by the pretty patterned balloons suspending oval baskets carrying a friendly monkey, bunny and elephant. And each balloon is set against a backdrop of clear skies, fluffy clouds, little birds, and lollipop trees on the lush green fields below. Priced around £12.50 ea.

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Kaloo Naturel Small Bunny £19.99 A gorgeous, uber-soft and ultra-cuddly bunny, presented in an eco gift box. It’s impossible to resist squeezing this bunny’s tummy and marvelling at how soft and cuddly it is, with its velvety organic cotton outer fabric and hypoallergenic, dust mite deterrent filling.

Keptin-Jr Knottiez Elly comforters £13.99 small, £15.99 large These fantastic designs of organic cotton comforters are actually flat, but with one simple tie, they transform into an elephant! So easy to wash and, unusually for organic toys, can be washed at a dustmite murdering 60ºC, so great for children with eczema, asthma or allergies. The “Baby Boy, Girl and Cousin” Elly colourways are in blue, pink or fudge brown gingham and the larger “Mummy, Daddy and Auntie” ones are in red, navy and fudge brown gingham, respectively.

Nature’s Purest Sleepy Safari Activity Bricks, set of 6 - £25 Beautifully gift boxed (so easy to wrap) these undyed organic cotton activity bricks make a really extra-special present. The colouring is achieved solely by using fibres from the naturally occurring green, brown and white varieties of the cotton plant, so no need for dyes! Adorable safari animals are featured, along with appliquéd details on each brick, covering a hypoallergenic, dust mite deterrent filling.

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................................................ www.roseandrebellion.com ................................................ Rose and Rebellion are proud to bring you a collection of Baby and Toddler carriers hand made ethically right here in the UK. High quality, high fashion carriers from three months to 20kg. Whether you are a rose or a rebel you will find the style for you. The Flying Start team love the fact these carriers combine practicality and style with a look to appeal to all. Take a look at the Rose and Rebellion website where you can view the extensive range, and don’t forget to look out for the limited editions! Each carrier is reversible , light weight, built for comfort and safety tested. So whether you are treating your loved one, your friend or yourself this Christmas, make sure you visit roseandrebellion.com. Exhibiting at the Designer Baby Show, 15th November, Spirit conference and exhibition centre, Slough.

................................................... www.lulasapphire.com ...................................................

Find lots of NEW cool and contemporary Christmas gifts for children at the online baby and toddler store Lula Sapphire. We love these CD’s featuring lullaby renditions of Pink Floyd, Johnny Cash, The Beatles, Nirvana, Radiohead, Bob Marley, Coldplay, The Rolling Stones, U2 and Queen! Priced at £14.95 these are sure to be a unique gift for any child... and mum and dad will love them too!

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...................... www.zitawest.com

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For some perfect Christmas present pregnancy pampering this year try some Zita West Beautiful Belly Balm £18.50. Made with a luxurious blend of Rose, Borage and Sandlewood oil to keep the tummy in good condition this cream is great to keep the skin nourished during pregnancy. Or give her a lovely back rub for Christmas using some silky Zita West Back Ease massage oil £12.50 (blended with Lemon, Lime and Grapefruit) For over twenty years Zita West has been involved with childbirth as Mid-wife, Acupuncturist, Nutritional Advisor, Author and Consultant. She is acknowledged as one of Europe’s leading experts on how couples can improve their prospects for conception, pregnancy and birth with her philosophy based on a holistic approach within the western medical model. West makes regular contributions to Junior Magazine and Prima Baby and has made countless appearances on ITV’s This Morning, LK Today and The Wright Stuff. She is also the author of five books, the most recent being ‘Plan to get pregnant’ (Dorling Kindersley) and has a new book coming out in early 2010. From her clinic near Harley Street West has treated hundreds of men and women with amazing results and her client list includes a number of well known celebrities who are all devotees of the range including Kate Winslet, Cate Blanchett, Davina McCall, to name but a few. In fact Kate Winslet said ‘I’m sure that without Zita’s advice and supplements I would never have survived filming at eighteen weeks’.

....................................................... www.nubie.co.uk ....................................................... Stacking Clown £10.99 Complete with 8 wooden rings for grasping, sorting and sequencing fun. Height 7 inches (178mm). Little Beasts £11.99 This Beautifully coloured wooden puzzle allows your children to learn about shapes and colour. For children over 12 months Music Cuddle Mouse £19.99 When you pull on its tail it plays rock-a-bye music for your little one. Blue DidiCar £44.99 No motor, No Batteries, No Pedals, just put your feet up, wiggle the steering wheel and Go! Suitable for children over 30 months to 30 years and up. The didicar can take upto 100kg (or 220lbs) allowing children and parents to have fun together. All these Christmas gifts and more available at www.nubie.co.uk

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www.hasbro.com

Two of Hasbro’s innovative toy range have made it onto the list of the top twelve toys for Christmas 2009. The coveted Dream Toy list – decided by the UK toy industry – has been announced and it features the popular Transformers Movie Voyager Figures and the exciting new Monopoly City

What you build up, your opponents can bring down! In the fantastically exciting new board MONOPOLY CITY, players can build as soon as they buy, building their portfolio from the first roll of the die and sabotage their opponents properties by building sewage plants or prisons on the competitor’s property. MONOPOLY CITY also allows players to build their own empire in the centre of the board using brand 80 3D buildings!

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Voyager figures feature larger scale characters from the TRANSFORMERS: REVENGE OF THE FALLEN movie. Figures include realistic styling with conversion from vehicle to robot and feature the fantastic new Mech Alive technology to really bring the action to life! Age: 5 years + SRP: £22.99

www.vtechuk.com

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V.Smile Motion Around £49.99. One of the top 10 favourite toys for children this Christmas. This educational games console with a wireless motion controller encourages children to get up and get active whilst learning essential early learning skills. Kidizoom Pro - Around £74.99. This amazing 2.0 mega pixel digital camera also boasts an MP3 player and advanced photo editing capabilities, making it a must for introducing your children to digital technology.

Bugsby Reading System - Around £29.99. Use the Bugsby magic sensor pen to listen to stories or individual words from the Amazing Search Learning Book. This ingenious new reading game teaches age appropriate curriculum whilst encouraging reading and literacy skills through fun, diverse stories. There is even a ‘create your own story’ feature for maximum creativity and 5 story titles including Wonder Pets, Scooby-Doo!, Dora the Explorer, Bugsby’s Space Adventure and Bugsby and the Magical Museum.

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......................................... www.beverlyhillsbakery.com

We source the highest quality ethically produced lambskin and merino baby and childrenswear. All our products are handmade, and are built to last. We passionately believe that our products should be passed along to a brother or sister - they only get better with age! Our 100% lambskin ugg-style booties are fantastic and set to be the next big thing this winter. Hand made from New Zealand lambskin that is all ethically sourced these are perfect for that extra little bit of comfort and style for your little ones! Two styles - one with a velcro closure to help secure the boots on little feet, and one without, for older ones. Our Ugg-style slippers are for older children up to age 3, and keep toes toasty and cosy all year round.

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www.babiesinsheepsclothing.com

www.bambinomerino.com

Worrying if baby is too hot or cold at night is a common concern among parents. Bambino Merino eliminate this worry with their best selling 100% natural baby sleeping bags. Featuring a silky, breathable merino lining which safely regulates body temperature throughout the night. No danger of overheating and no more waking up cold. Designed to be worn in all seasons â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the only sleeping bag you need. Now available in 0-2 and 2-4 year sizes.

Our elegantly decorated and mouth wateringly delicious Fairy Cupcakes are ideal for baby births, baby showers, birthday parties or tea parties! Assortments of delicate vanilla, chocolate delight, blueberry burst, zesty lemon, tropical carrot and coloured cream cheese frosting topped with varieties of sugar, chocolate and rainbow lemon, pineapple & orange rind. We can tailor make cupcakes using colours, pictures, toppings, letters, children names, themes etc. Our cupcakes preservatives and exclusively packaged.

www.bambinomerino.com or call 020 8877 1377

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The hedgepig is THE online clothing shop for funky kids. We stock a large range of katvig, molo, three little trees, plastisock, Snoozy, minymo, Ida T, Ej Sikke Lej, Kik*Kid, Smafolk Franck & Fisher, win green, Brights & Stripes, Sophie 4 Sophie, Urban Elk, Sweet Peanut, Arms Reach co sleepers and Krutter. Why not have a look around our site for some fantastic Christmas gift ideas!

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for your little prince or princess.

www.ukchildrensjewellery.co.uk

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www.thehedgepig.co.uk

UK Children's Jewellery specialise in and supply high quality Children's jewellery and Christening gifts for Babies and Children. Our carefully selected and beautifully designed jewellery make perfect christening gifts, birthday gifts and keepsakes for you little treasure. From birth right through to teens there is gift that is just perfect for every occasion. Let us help you

Little Fish Toys specialises in beautiful wooden toys, kids furniture, soft toys, and educational more - at the best prices. Find it cheaper anywhere our customers the best service and best price around. That's why we constantly price check our stock to give you the best deal. However, should Visit our website today!

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Really really big questions

REALLY, REALLY BIG QUESTIONS is an unusual and fun introduction to philosophy that explores life’s important but often unanswered questions. Readers will be able to explore the history of thought and the great thinkers and learn how to think rationally for themselves. Mind-teasers, optical illusions and thought experiments make this philosophic journey unforgettably fun! Philosophy, shown in a recent study to improve IQ and emotional intelligence, is now being taught not only to AS and A-Level students but children as young as four years old!!

AIRHEAD: BEING NIKKI by author of The Princess Diaries, Meg Cabot. Supernerd Emerson Watts is getting to grips with life in the body of Supermodel Nikki

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(macmillan)

is a lot harder than it looks! The bikinis are teensy, the heels are sky-high, and no one seems to care that Nikki's life is on the verge of falling apart. But it's up to Em to keep things together even if her heart is breaking . . .

In Belladonna Johnson's world, talking to ghosts seems perfectly normal. She even lives with two her recently deceased parents. But then the ghosts start disappearing. Before her father slips away, he warns her that the doors are closing, but Belladonna doesn't understand what he means. She realises, though, that evil forces are at work, and if she can't stop them, she might lose everything. With them to their limits, as they discover the dark secrets that lurk on the Other Side . . .

THE LAST GHOST: A Belladonna Johnson Adventure by Helen Stringer.

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www.peterrabbit.com

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A must-have book for all inquisitive and fun-loving kids!

Ripley’s Believe it or Not Book

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One snowy afternoon Peter Rabbit leaves home to collect firewood for his mother. Little does he know that this is the start of an exciting adventure in the heart of the wintery forest… A Winter’s Tale is an enchanting story that is perfect for Christmas. Based on Beatrix Potter's original characters and illustrations, the story is inspired by the Tale of Mr. Tod, who is a most troublesome and ‘disagreeable’ fox. The text and festive illustrations, which evoke Beatrix Potter’s original paintings for Christmas cards, tell the story of the escape Mrs Tittlemouse’s children from the clutches of Mr. Tod and Tommy Brock with the help of Peter Rabbit and his cousin Benjamin. Throughout the book, there are ten interactive envelopes containing twinkling ‘snowflake’ decorations to dress a Christmas tree, which is revealed on the final page of the book. This delicate shimmering pop-up tree can be displayed in a child’s room during the festive period. A perfect gift for Christmas, A Winter’s Tale is in all good bookshops now priced £17.99

Following hot on the heels of last year’s edition, Ripley’s Believe it or Not 2010 offers a whole new feast of fun facts, incredible stories and extraordinary photographs – all guaranteed to fascinate, surprise and amaze. Marvel at the ice-man who survived Everest in just a pair of shorts; steel your stomach against pictures of insect sushi; and praise the heroic pet parrot who saved a family from their burning home.

Find out how 1+1 = 288 in the fantastic new picture book written and illustrated by award-winning author and illustrator Emily Gravett. THE RABBIT PROBLEM is a brilliantly funny book that follows two rabbits and their rapidly expanding family through a whole calendar year. Packed full of novelty elements, including a baby-bunny record book, a rabbit newspaper (complete with problem page and horoscopes) and a carrot cookery book, as well as a stunning surprise pop-up ending. Out now, priced £12.99 published my Macmillan Children’s Books, visit www.emilygravett.com for more

www.emilygravett.com

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www.thekidsartstudio.com

www.thesilverimpressioncompany.co.uk

At the Silver Impression Company we create beautiful and totally individual fingerprint jewellery crafted in 99.9% silver. A lasting and unique gift created from the fingerprint of someone special, the ideal gift for any occasion. Anyone’s fingerprint can be turned into a piece of silver jewellery, baby, child or adult. You take the fingerprint impression using the quick and simple kit that we provide, return it to us, and we then set about turning the impression into a beautiful piece of silver jewellery, Pendants, Charm Bracelets, Keyring or Cufflinks. A beautiful and unique gift to treasure - New range now online Tel: 08456 973 488

At The Kids Art Studio we create hand painted, fun original art for children. Our colourful characters and pictures aim to brighten up bedrooms and add personality to playrooms. Our collection includes an exciting variety of designs from trains to animals to personalised items. A commissions service is also available offering something to suit both boys and girls We'd love every child's room to have an original painting from The Kids Art Studio and with prices from just £20 we hope you will help us in our quest.

Wow! We’ve got some fabulous high quality wheeled toys in stock for this Christmas. A Radio Flyer Fire Engine or Trike perhaps? Have you got a farmer in the making that needs a John Deere style tractor? or a little miss needing a Barbie Jeep? For budding racing drivers, the brand new Berg Toys Ferrari F1 go-kart is just amazing. Shop for these and our huge range of outdoor and indoor toys online on our secure website, or visit our display site and shop near Grantham today!

www.outdoortoyworld.com

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www.mylittleadventure.co.uk

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My Little Adventure has a large selection of personalised gifts suitable for any occasion. We have personalised children's books covering many topics including three Christmas titles plus Letters from Santa in different designs. We also offer Meaning of A Name certificates printed on beautiful artwork that make a delightful and unique gift, On This Day In History certificates depicting events that happened on a specific date in time plus much more. To order any of these items please visit

!"#$%$&'%$'(%)*%$&+,* -,)./'!0123#) !"#$%&"'&'()$%( *+,&'-../&&0./1./2+3.4&$+5& 63/7348,27'69&:;$

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Are you searching for a long lasting beautiful heirloom toy or a stunning gift for a newborn or little one this Christmas? Minty Hen has a wonderful range of soft sculptured toy sets and interactive fabric books, hand smocked clothing and night wear and beautiful, gentle baby skincare made from organically grown lavender. Whether you want an enchanting medieval castle, a sugar sweet pink tea party set or a Noah’s ark bursting with animals, you’ll find something to suit the baby or child you are buying for. All products are suitable from birth. Please telephone 0800 074 1675 or visit our website.

www.mintyhen.co.uk

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PastelPrint offers the opportunity to capture your loved one’s prints on recycled silver keepsake pieces. Fingerprints, hand or footprints and children’s artwork can be transferred onto charms, pendants, cufflinks, keyrings and bookmarks and make perfect gifts for all occasions. The signature Cluster Necklace is a popular gift choice for mums, as its quirky nature allows the recipient to add charms or beads to the piece as the family or children grow. For further information and product details, please go to www.pastelprint.co.uk or contact Allison@pastelprint.co.uk

www.pastelprint.co.uk

......................................... www.photo-me.co.uk

www.MyMiniMonsters.co.uk

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Gorgeous interiors retailer My Mini Monsters has added to its growing collection of gifts and accessories with a brand new ‘snuggle range’. Featuring cosy hooded robes and fleece towels you will be spoilt for choice with ways to keep your little one warm and snug this winter. The delightful snuggle range is available in two colours – Rose and Forget Me Not Blue - sized 6-12 mths and also Barley in size 0-6mths. They make the perfect gift to welcome baby and are available in beautiful presentation gift boxes and sets. Make sure this is the first place you look when trying to find the perfect present. From gorgeous layette sets and cosy blankets, to delightful sleep suits, cute canvas art and soft toys; My Mini Monsters will ensure you’ll find something super stylish.

“The Photo-Me Photobook Maker is the first self-service kiosk able to produce stylish photobooks in minutes. This innovative kiosk quickly puts your photos into aesthetically pleasing layouts thanks to its cutting edge software. The size of a DVD jacket, the photobook is printed on high gloss, stain proof and scratch resistant paper so that it not only stands the test of time, but it also attracts non-stop admiration from friends and family! A photobook can contain up to 30 pages, with around 90 photos. Ideal for just about every occasion, the Photobook Maker can provide you with albums documenting weddings, birthdays as well as festive family get-togethers!”

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www.littlelazy.co.uk

www.stabilo.co.uk

To contact us by phone please call Customer Services on 01332 513033 between 9.00am and 5.00pm (answering machine services at other times) or visit our website.

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The Organic Toy Company's gorgeous soft toys are made using certified organic cotton and provide the ultimate in purity for newborn and even premature babies, as well as children of all ages. In addition to being environmentally-responsible and ethically produced, our organic toys provide an ideal solution for children who suffer with eczema, asthma or allergies. With our unrivalled range of choice, these really aren't your average High Street toys and make truly extra-special gifts, with prices starting at just £6.99!

www.otoys.co.uk

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The Little Lazy Collection Little Lazy is a range of practical gifts for children that are fun, colourful and beautifully made. From clothing to cushions most of our products are designed to be personalised if required with embroidered or appliqued names or with photographs you send to us.

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Little Lazy is the brand name for a range of childrens gifts, many of which are designed and produced exclusively by Dorling Koper Design, a design and manufacturing business based in Derbyshire in the heart of England.

The STABILO ‘s move easy rollerball and EASYergo retractable pencil have been designed with ergonomic grip zones to fit comfortably into any child’s hand. The ‘s move easy includes all the benefits of a fountain pen, but without the mess. The rollerball glides easily across the page whilst each refill comes with a brand new tip. The EASYergo has a thick HB lead to prevent breakages and comes with an ergonomic sharpener. Both are available in left or right handed versions and black refills are also available for the pen. Available from Morrisons, Rymans, WHSmiths and all good independent stationers.

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......................................... www.toytidy.com

......................................... www.totsntoys.co.uk

www.twistedtwee.co.uk

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Personalised bookshelves - A very special present this Christmas from Toy Tidy

Many more great ideas for presents for all the family Visit www.toytidy.com or call 01223 291430

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Choose the letters for your child’s name or initials and letter colour :- white, red, dark blue, light blue, pink or mauve to personalize these stunning floor standing bookshelves. Select between 3, 4, 5 or 6 letters or blanks required per side. Prices start from £124.19 for 3 shelf/letters.

Oh heck, Christmas is coming. A timely occasion for Twisted Twee to tenderly launch their new Child Labour Collection. A series of miniature tea towels designed to fool - sorry persuade - our young to embrace the drudgery of home chores from an early age and with a happy heart. Hemmed on all four sides and made in the UK with seven colour printing, these works of art are only £10 each.

Here you will find a fabulous selection of children’s toys including wooden toys, play kitchen & pretend food, wooden train sets, musical instruments, puppets, fancy dress. You will also find a selection of baby equipment such as buggy boards, sunshades, feeding, bathtime and lots more! We are a family run online business offering amazingly competitive prices including free UK delivery on our products, which are all carefully selected not only to meet price, but quality and style too. So why not start organising for Christmas right now and visit our website today!

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Whether it’s Christmas, birthdays or any other special occasion our toys and themed boxed gifts are aimed at making life easier for busy parents and fun for children. Best of all you can be confident when purchasing from us because the toys and gifts have been chosen with care to suit the different stages of development and also the interests of your child. And our comprehensive section for children with special needs put together with advice from a teacher with 20 years experience in a special school makes us unique. Have a look it’s definitely worth it!

www.twothumbsupgifts.co.uk

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Catimini, Levi's, Me Too, Powell Craft, Inch Blue, Absorba, Toys from everyone!! We have so much more instore, with three shops and a website we promise you that you will find something and we probably have the best prices in the UK. Now that must be worth a look. The kind of shop you would wish for!

www.weegooseberry.com

!"# $% % & When I Was a Kid is a family run business based in Northants. We specialise in traditional Toys & Gifts often not found on the high street with prices from £1 to over £100, we have gifts for all budgets Flying Start Magazine readers can get a 10% discount on any orders placed on our website. Just enter the code ‘FLYING START’ at the checkout.

WWW.WHENIWASAKID.CO.UK Give them something personal this Christmas, our wonderful wooden Alphabet Name Train can be made into virtually any name you like...

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...and lots more!

36 King street Whalley BB7 9SL

Opening hours 10-5pm every day closed Sunday www.hanselandgretel.net

Visit

Or call 0800 0433248 e: ivanlatter@cheesybugtoys.co.uk

Kiddymania, the online store dedicated to bringing you quality at a reasonable price with the guarantee of a personal service

www.kiddymania.co.uk 22 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

New for Autumn..... Fabulous Boots by Viviane, Angulus, Miss Sixty, Geox & Lelli Kelly. Trainers by Geox & Skechers School Shoes still available

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!"#$%&#''()*$+,$-./,0)1 2&03()*$0'

24 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

www.jacinabox.co.uk

www.toyboxlane.com

sales area. Brands include Tomy, vtech, bob the builder, john crane, marbel toys, papo, schleich, siku tractors, kites, trikes and scooters, knex and many many more. Winners are of the Best toy shop in the North & Scotland in 2005 and 2007 by the British Toy Retailers Association. Their excellent customer service means they always go that extra mile for people.

At Toyboxlane we have a fantastic range of wooden toys. We choose carefully to ensure they are made to a high standard, using non-toxic paints and replenishable wood where possible. Our beautiful range begins with wooden rattles for the very young, progressing to push and pull alongs for toddlers. For older children we have a great selection of dollhouses, train-sets, play food and kitchens, as well as farm sets, and loads more besides. Wooden toys not as expensive as you might think ... Come and take a look at www.toyboxlane.com

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Jacinabox.co.uk is a family run business which began life as a small toyshop in 1997. With over 11 years experience of Toys, Jacinabox joined a large buying group in 2003 and moved to larger premises in

SKIBZ NEW DESIGNS MAKE THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT FOR STYLISH TOTS Skibz, makers of the stylish award-winning dribble bib that looks like a fashionable bandana, have launched ten new designs for Autumn/Winter. Choose from traditional gingham, funky retro prints, or cow and leopard-print for fashion conscious tots! Skibz are smart enough to be worn all day, co-ordinating with every outfit, and the beautifully soft and comfortable pure cotton fabric makes them ideal for teething babies and little dribblers. Recent winners of the prestigious Practical Pre-School Gold award 2009, Skibz are the perfect stocking filler for little ones. Call 0777 3850472 for stockists.

www.skibz.co.uk

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VISIT WWW.FLYINGSTARTMAGAZINE.CO.UK FOR EXCLUSIVE FEATURES & COMPETITIONS Win a Homegrown toy from Silver Cross! Silver Cross – Britain’s famous pram and nursery product manufacturer – has launched its first ever toy and gift collection and here is the chance to win one of three adorable Rufus Rabbit toys worth £20. VISIT WWW.FLYINGSTARTMAGAZINE.CO.UK FOR DETAILS OF HOW TO ENTER

Rufus Rabbit is just one of the characters in the Homegrown activity range, designed to help children learn through play. His pull-along wobbly wheelbarrow is bursting with healthy vegetables, including a jingly carrot, a squeaking cauliflower and a beetroot that rattles! To see other adorable Silver Cross toys and gifts, including everything from traditional teddy bears to musical toys, visit www.silvercross.co.uk

25 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

Dilly Dots Tots was formed following the birth of little Rebecca whose birth made mum realise just how important it is that every child has the best to make them feel special and develop into little people. That is why our collection offers the highest quality toys, baby products & gifts for little boys and girls from birth up to the age of 3. We provide a fast efficient service and deliver direct to your door. We also offer a free gift wrapping service with gift card including a personal message delivered to your chosen recipient. Visit our website to see our extensive range of unique gifts for baby and mum too! www.dillydotstots.co.uk e: sales@dillydotstots.co.uk t: 01772 456297 or 0750 1259020

www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

Whether it’s Family Christmas Dinner or Boxing Day Buffets, we are sure you will love these fantastic recipes taken from Annabel Karmel's Family Cookbook Winter & Christmas 2009 Magbook (Dennis Publishing £5.99) available in Borders and Smiths.

... Not only are we bringing you a sneak preview of these fantastic recipes, but also the chance to win a Step 2 Annabel Karmel Play Kitchen (£99). Preschoolers and toddlers will love this new play kitchen which includes a 24 piece accessory set and also comes with realistic sound affects such as sizzling and bubbling when play cooking on the stove. And if that is not enough to keep the kids entertained you also get a free Annabel Karmel cook book “Cook it Together” (£7.99) which is one of Annabel’s best selling books. For your chance to enter go to Flying Start’s website www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk for details. 28 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

RUDOLPH THE RED NOSED BAKED POTATO

A great recipe for turning a baked potato into a delicious mouth watering treat for Christmas and it is guaranteed to bring a smile to eveyone’s face…. Butternut squash is very rich in vitamin A which is important for healthy skin, eyesight and fighting infection. Alternatively for a simple version scoop out the potato flesh and mash it together with a little butter milk and cheese, season to taste and pile it back into the potato shells.

4 medium baking potatoes (approx 225g each) a little vegetable oil ½ (half ) medium butternut squash (approx 300g) 55g butter 1 tsp Dijon mustard 40 g fresh grated parmesan cheese 2 tbsp milk 40g grated Cheddar cheese Decoration Cherry tomatoes Twirly crisps peas for eyes Preheat the oven to 190C/ Fan 170 / Gas 5. Prick the potatoes in several places, place on a baking tray and brush all over with the oil. Bake for 1 to 1 ¼ (one and a quarter) hours or until they feel soft when pressed. Cut the butternut squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Place in a baking dish, skin side down. Melt 20g of the butter and brush it over the squash, then bake in the oven for about 40 minutes or until tender. When cool enough to handle, cut the tops off the baked potatoes and scoop out the flesh. Scoop the flesh of the cooked butternut squash off the skin and mash together with the baked potato flesh, mustard, parmesan, milk and remaining butter. Season with a little salt and pepper. Put the mixture back into the potato shells and top with the grated cheddar. Preheat the grill on the hottest setting. Place the potatoes on a baking tray or suitable dish and grill for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden. Add twirly crisps for antlers, peas for eyes and cherry tomatoes for the nose... (Makes 4 baked potatoes) Children eat with their eyes as well as their tummies. Making individual portions in ramekins is so much more appealing than a dollop of food on a plate. Sweating the vegetables slowly with the thyme and then reducing the white wine vinegar gives a lovely flavour. These tasty chicken pies also freeze well so you could serve one and freeze three for days when you don’t have time to cook.. 30g/1oz butter 1 small shallot, diced (40g) 1 medium carrot, diced (100g) 1/2 small leek, thinly sliced (30g) 1/4 tsp chopped fresh thyme leaves 4 tsp white wine vinegar 20g/2/3 oz cornflour 400ml chicken stock 2 tbsp crème fraiche 225g/8oz cooked turkey (white and dark meat) cut into bite sized pieces 500g/1lb 2oz potatoes, peeled and cubed 15g butter 3 tbsp milk 1 egg white lightly beaten (optional) Melt the butter and sweat the vegetables and thyme for 10 minutes, until soft. Add the vinegar and boil until the vinegar had evaporated then stir in the cornflour. Add the stock a little at a time to make a smooth sauce then add the crème fraiche and season to taste with salt and pepper. Allow to cool. Boil the potatoes in plenty of salted water for around 15 minutes, until just tender. Drain the potatoes then mash well. Beat in the butter and milk and season to taste. Preheat the oven to 200c/400F/Gas 6/180 Fan. Put the turkey into the base of ramekins or small dishes (I use 9.5 cm diameter ramekins) and spoon the sauce on top. Spoon over the mash and fork the surface of each pie. Put the dishes on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes The tops can be browned further under a hot grill and if you brush them with a little egg white they will brown nicely. To freeze –do so before baking stage. To serve, defrost overnight in the fridge and follow the baking instructions above. (Makes 4 portions)

MINI TURKEY & POTATO PIES

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CHRISTMAS PUDDING TRUFFLES

From 2 years Prep time 50 mins plus 1 hour chilling time Makes 18 large truffles Not Suitable for freezing

Truffles always make a nice present and these ones can be dressed up to look like mini Christmas Puddings. If you don’t have time to decorate them then just dust the truffles with cocoa. Put each truffle in a mini muffin case and sit in a small box, tied with a ribbon. Store in the fridge. Its better to use royal icing for the decoration as it sets hard which makes the truffles more robust as gifts and also helps the decoration to stick on (glace icing with sugar and water tends to stay soft). In the UK you can buy royal icing sugar which has powdered egg white in (Tate & Lyle) or add dried egg white (Supercook make one) The truffles are a little on the large size so you could make more with 2 tsp mixture per truffle – less than that and they will be too fiddly to decorate. You could add rum but I have used vanilla as it is for children. You can speed up the chilling bit by spreading the mixture onto a baking sheet – it will take only 15 minutes to firm up. You could probably make these with chocolate cake but actually the sweetness of the cake offsets the dark chocolate nicely so the Maidera cake works well. Truffles 125g (4 1/2 oz) dark chocolate 75g (2 1/2 oz) unsalted butter 200g (7oz) Madiera cake (or loaf cake) 50g (2oz) glace cherries, halved 50g (2oz) raisins 25g (1oz) pecans 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 2 tbsp icing sugar

Decoration 50g (2oz) ready to use fondant icing red and green food colour 110g (4oz) icing sugar or Tate & Lyle royal icing sugar 1/2 tsp meringue powder or dried egg white powder (supercook) – omit if using royal icing sugar 4 tsp water

Put the butter and chocolate in a large heatproof bowl and melt together over a saucepan of warm water (make sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water), stirring occasionally. You can also melt the chocolate in a microwave using 15 second bursts and stirring between each burst (it will probably take 3-4 bursts). Set aside to cool slightly. From 2 years Suitable for freezing (baked but un-iced) Preparation 15 minutes Cook 22 minutes Makes approx 16 cupcakes From 2 years Prep time 35 mins Cooking time 20 mins Makes 8 to 10 Cupcakes suitable for freezing without decoration

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Put the Madiera cake in a food processor and whiz to crumbs. Add the cherries, raisins and pecans and pulse 5-6 times until roughly chopped (if you like larger pieces then chop the fruit and nuts by hand). Tip the crumb mixture into the bowl of chocolate and add the vanilla and icing sugar. Stir until thoroughly combined. Put the truffle mixture into the fridge for around 1 hour, to firm up. Line a baking sheet with baking parchment or clingfilm. Take tablespoonfuls of the truffle mixture and roll them into balls, using the palms of your hands. Sit the rolled truffles on the prepared baking sheet. When you have finished rolling the truffles put the baking sheet in the fridge for another hour, or overnight, to allow the mixture to firm up again. To decorate the truffles first make the “holly”. Colour 1/4 of the fondant icing red and then roll out 36 small balls. Colour the remaining fondant green and roll out thinly (you can do this between two pieces of clingfilm if it gets too sticky. Cut out 36 holly leaves. Sit the decorations on a plate lined with clingfilm. Put the icing sugar in a bowl (and stir in the egg white powder, if using). Add half of the water and stir in, then add extra water, a couple of drops at a time, to make a stiff icing. Drop 1/2 teaspoon icing on the top of a truffle and use a cocktail stick or the tip of a knife to spread the icing out a little. Allow to dry slightly, then sit two holly berries and leaves on the top of the truffle. Repeat with remaining truffles then return the truffles to the fridge and leave for 3-4 hours, or overnight, to allow the icing to set. If any of the decorations drop off then they can be fixed back with a little extra icing.

FATHER CHRISTMAS CARROT CUPCAKES

These are fun for children to make themselves. You can line boxes or tins with shredded Cellophane or some tissue paper and nestle your decorated cakes inside. 100g/4 oz softened butter or soft margarine 100g/4 oz golden caster sugar 2 eggs 100g/4 oz self-raising flour 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp vanilla essence icing sugar for dusting 150g ready to roll white icing 3 tbsp apricot jam

These Carrot Cupcakes are also delicious simply topped with a maple icing. 170 g (6 oz) self-raising flour 1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda 1 tsp mixed spice a pinch of salt 170 g (6 oz) butter, room temperature 170 g (6 oz) soft light brown sugar 3 eggs, beaten 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 2 tbsp soured cream or Greek yoghurt 140 g (5 oz) grated carrot 110 g (4 oz) raisins

Father Christmas Decoration 225g Ready to roll white icing 3 tbsp apricot jam Chocolate honeycomb balls Red food colouring White Writing Icing Maple Icing 140 g (5 oz) icing sugar 4 tbsp maple syrup 3/4 tsp water 30 g (1 oz) pecan nuts, chopped (optional), to decorate

Pre-heat the oven to 190°C /375°F /Gas 5/Fan 170°C. Line two bun tins with paper cases. Sift together the flour, bicarbonate of soda, mixed spice and salt, and set aside. Put the butter and sugar in a large bowl and beat until fluffy. Add the eggs, vanilla, soured cream and sifted dry ingredients, and beat until just combined. Fold in the carrot and raisins. Spoon the batter into the prepared bun tins, filling each paper case around three-quarters full (an ice-cream scoop is good for this). Bake for 18–22 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the centre of the cupcakes comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes in the tins, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Decoration Marshmallows Red Fizzy Lances for the scarves Tubes of coloured Writing Icing (available in supermarkets) Sugar baubles (for cake decoration) or silver baubles Pre-heat the oven to 180C/. fan oven 160C / 300 F. Place the softened butter or margarine, sugar, eggs, flour, baking powder and vanilla essence into the bowl of an electric mixer and beat for a few minutes until the mixture is light in colour and fluffy. Line a bun tin with 8 paper cases and divide the mixture between them, filling the cases about two thirds full. Bake for about 20 minutes until the fairy cakes are risen and lightly golden. Lift the cakes (still in their paper cases) out of the tins and leave them to cool on a wire rack. Dust a clean working surface with icing sugar and roll out the icing to about 5mm/1/4”. Cut out 8 circles using a small pastry cutter that is the same size as the top of your cakes. Put the apricot jam into a small dish and stir in 1 tablespoon of hot water, then brush this over the surface of the cakes and stick the circles of icing on top. To decorate the cakes use marshmallows for the snowmen’s heads, black writing icing for the eyes, red writing icing for the smiles and sugar baubles for noses (stick them on with a blob of Writing Icing). Stick the heads on the cakes using a little apricot jam, then stick on the sugar bauble buttons. Wrap Fizzy Lances (from Sainsbury’s) around the snowmen’s necks for scarves. TIP Put the fizzy lances in the microwave for a few seconds to make them more pliable. (Makes 8)

To make Father Christmas Faces, colour one third of the icing red. Roll out the white icing and cut out wiggly circles to fit the cupcakes. Warm the apricot jam in a small saucepan (if its very lumpy you may need to strain it) and brush a little over the surface of the cooled cakes. Place the circles of white icing on top. Cut out triangles to form hats from the red icing and attach bobbles on top made from small white balls of white icing.. Add two chocolate honeycomb balls or two chocolate chips for the eyes and use the tube of Writing Icing to form the hair and a beard. To make the maple icing (if you choose not to decorate these as Father Christmas) put the icing sugar in a bowl and stir in the maple syrup. Add the water, a few drops at a time, to make an icing which will thickly coat the back of a spoon. Spread onto the cupcakes and sprinkle over the pecans (if using) The iced cupcakes will keep in an airtight tin for 3 to 4 days. Baked un-iced cupcakes can be frozen for up to a month. Defrost for 2 to 3 hours at room temperature

SNAZZY SNOWMEN

Boys losing out to

32 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

girls at

playtime The research highlights that the most popular play type is symbolic play, with 85% children taking part daily, followed by physical play (76%). However, girls still enjoy these types of play more than boys. Nearly half (48%) girls partake in symbolic play daily compared to just over a third (37%) of boys, and 41% girls partake in physical play daily compared to only 34% boys.

Girls under the age of five are much more likely to be given daily exposure to the types of play that aid their development than boys of the same age, new research from DUPLO has discovered. Amongst children aged five and under, girls are on average 14% more likely than boys to partake in a wide variety of play types on a daily basis including ‘rough and tumble’ games, being read to and dressing up - an imbalance which could impact on boys’ intellectual and emotional progress. DUPLO commissioned the research as part of a report on the play requirements of the under-fives, in conjunction with Dr David Whitebread, Senior Lecturer in Psychology & Education at the University of Cambridge. When broken down by play types, the research findings show that: Nearly two-thirds of girls (62%) read books or listen to stories each day, compared with half of boys (50%) 46% of girls spend time playing ‘rough and tumble’ games each day compared to

32% of boys Almost half of all girls under 5 play with dolls or action figures on a daily basis (45%), compared to less than a third of boys (29%) 34% of girls spend time painting, drawing or playing music daily, compared to only 24% of boys When asked about the reasons their children aren’t exposed to certain types of play, 15% of parents of boys believe some types of play are unsuitable for their sons, particularly when it comes to dressing-up and play with dolls or action figures. David Whitebread says: “Potentially boys are losing out in vital areas of their development that girls are thriving in. All children need balanced exposure to different kinds of play to aid their development and understanding of the world around them.” In the report, Ensuring children get a balanced diet of play, Dr. Whitebread identifies the five types of play that parents should provide for and encourage. The five key play areas are:

Physical play – important for building strength, hand-eye co-ordination and fine motor skills, physical play includes jumping, climbing, dancing, sewing, colouring and construction toys such as DUPLO bricks. Socio-dramatic play – develops children’s imagination and social advancement through games such as dressing-up, role-playing, dolls and action figures or mini-worlds such as DUPLO zoo. Symbolic play – helps children to express themselves and record experiences and ideas. It includes painting, drawing, playing music, playing with books, listening to and telling stories. Play with objects – allows children to explore the world around them through investigation, reasoning and problem solving by using Play-Doh, jigsaw puzzles and flexible, open-ended toys such as DUPLO bricks. Games with rules – teaches children responsibility and awareness of others. This can include chasing, hide-andseek, throwing and catching and board, card, electronic or computer games.

Overall, the least popular types of play amongst children are games with rules (25%) and play with objects (38%). Research shows that children who miss out on these types of play are likely to be less advanced than their peers in vital skills such as understanding perspectives, embracing challenges, problem solving and perseverance. David Whitebread commented, “Evidence clearly demonstrates the importance of play in the lives of young children, and the amount and sophistication of play is strongly associated with their development. For children to mature and progress, it is vital to create opportunities for them to take part in a wide variety of different play types and scenarios.” Laura di Bonaventura, from DUPLO, added “Children play as they learn. To achieve the maximum developmental opportunities for children, parents should look for well-made, versatile and open-ended toys such as DUPLO bricks, which support children’s development in several categories of play, ensuring they are progressing as they play.”

33 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

With pure sandy beaches, clear Caribbean sea water and all-year-round warm weather; there is a lot to love about Antigua as a family holiday destination. Flying Start delves deeper A 108 square mile limestone and coral island located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea boasting numerous secluded coves and bays, 365 white sand beaches and turquoise coloured water. Ladies, gentlemen, boys and girls, welcome to Antigua! Approximately an eight-hour flight from the UK, Antigua is blessed with sunny weather all year round so you can work your dream holiday around the school holidays and not have to worry about missing the sunshine. A beach for every day of the year on the island means that families can afford the luxury of privacy and beauty. The majority of beaches on 34 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

Antigua rest inside the calm, protected waters on the Caribbean side so you can feel relaxed about letting the children splash, paddle or sit at the water’s edge with a bucket and spade. Popular spots dotted along the west coast include Galley Bay, Ffryes Bay, Morris Bay, Dickinson Bay, Turners Beach and Darkwood Beach. On the east side of the island, try Half Moon Bay and Long Bay for a spot of snorkelling. All beaches are open to the public, which just leaves you the challenge of deciding which one to kick back and relax at. Antigua not only caters for sun worshippers but also adventure junkies, land lovers and water babies. Adventure Antigua comes highly recommended with its classic Eco-Tour experience, which takes visitors aboard a 52-foot Powercat boat and across reefs and mangrove nurseries

where turtles, frigate birds, herons, pelicans, spotted eagle rays, sting rays and barracuda can be spotted. For those who prefer to be under the water than on top of it, SubCat Antigua is the island’s first submarine diving tour and latest family attraction, taking you on a real submarine voyage to depths of up to 100ft where stingray, sharks and turtles inhabit the water. For families who can’t find their sea legs, one of Tropical Adventures’ most popular activities is an island safari, which treats families to a fun and educational Land Rover romp through Antigua’s rainforest and to scenic ocean views. Otherwise, take the family on the Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tour - a high wire course that takes you from tree to tree via an assortment of suspension bridges, zip lines and swings, climaxing with a daredevil 60-foot controlled parachute

jump. The only time you are likely to want to leave Antigua is to take the one hour 30 minute ferry crossing to its sister island of Barbuda. Lying 27 miles northeast of Antigua, the island is known for its untouched pink coral and white sandy beaches. Swimming, diving, snorkeling, fishing, bird watching, caving and beachcombing are most often the activities of choice on Barbuda. Back on Antigua and there is a vast choice of restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets. French, Italian, Creole, Caribbean and native cuisine can be selected from more than 60 restaurants on the island. Antigua might not initially spring to mind as a family holiday destination but there are more reasons to take the family on a dream holiday than there are beaches on the island.

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. . . s w e N Holiday First Choice’s New Family Destination that’s too good to be Ma-truh If you like to be ahead of the trends, visiting the hottest holiday destinations before any other families, then Marsa Matruh, Egypt is a must have getaway for you and the kids next summer. A great family-friendly destination on the Mediterranean, Marsa Matruh is renowned for its untouched beaches, turquoise waters and relaxing vibe. From May 2010 First Choice is offering family holidays to this new and most stunning Egyptian

resort, staying at a luxurious brand new hotel. Exclusive to First Choice in the UK, the 5 Sun Jaz Crystal, is a lavish family focused hotel where you’ll be able to relax and enjoy all the facilities on offer. Situated on the beachfront, not only can you enjoy the soft ivory sands and aquamarine waters, this hotel has plenty to keep the whole family busy too, from a large swimming pool to tennis courts and a kids’ club. Marsa Matruh is also not just a fantastic holiday for beach lovers, it’s also ideal for those wanting to soak up some history and culture. For a change of tempo, you’ve got places like the fabled city of

Alexandria to visit. Known as “The Pearl of the Mediterranean”, a trip to Marsa Matruh gives you and the kids the opportunity to visit one of the most famous cities on the planet. Rich in history and founded by Alexander the Great, there is also the chance to visit the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It doesn’t stop there - all the family can also get a taste of bedouin life on an evening excursion into the desert. You can see the sky as you have never seen it before, visiting a traditional Bedouin tent to sample some tea. Whether it’s a relaxing time

with the children on the beach, quality family time doing lots of activities or a holiday with some culture for the kids – Marsa Matruh offers it all. First Choice offers 7 night holidays in Marsa Matruh staying at the 5 Sun Jaz Crystal on an all-inclusive basis from just £635 per adult and £365 per child. Price based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing and departing on 4th May 2010 from London Gatwick. To find out more about this holiday, or to make a reservation, please call First Choice on 0871 664 9014, or book online at www.firstchoice.co.uk/egypt

Great new take-anywhere first aid kit for babies and children Baby Aid (RRP £14.00). It’s perfect for those little emergencies whether you’re at home or on the go, on holiday, or out in the park with friends. It’s small enough to fit into your changing bag or even a handbag. The compact kit contains first aid supplies from plasters, Burnshield gel and thermometers to Brave Little Star stickers for cheering up and advice on items in the kit, as well as general first aid advice on CPR and much more. 33 items in total and there’s room for a few more. www.babyaid.co.uk The threat to health from animal bites and stings is quite low in the UK. However if you and your family are travelling abroad, its is important to be aware of the hazards that exist in other countries. Your GP can give you up-to-date advice about appropriate preventive treatments.

insects include bumblebees, honeybees, hornets and wasps.

Common biting insects in the UK include bedbugs, flies, fleas, midges, mites, mosquitoes and ticks. Stinging

Bites from insects such as mosquitoes that feed on your blood often result in itchy spots or lumps which usually

An insect makes a tiny hole in your skin when it bites you, often to get to the blood that it feeds on. Stings contain chemicals that can be irritant to the skin and trigger allergic reactions.

clear up within a day or so. Rarely, a bite or sting can cause a dangerous allergic reaction, called anaphylaxis, so it's important to know what to do if this happens. For more information visit Bupa’s factsheet at www.bupa.co.uk Remember to pack... Ben's bite-ezer comes in a handy 20g tube. With eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil and aloe vera this special non-stinging cream reduces

the effect of insect bites & stings whilst gently moisturising the skin. * Soothes the skin reducing effects of bites & stings * Easy to apply cream * Suitable for all the family from 2 years upwards £3.91 (20g) from www.babyaid.co.uk 37 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

family holidays

Tel: 01397 772 376 (International: 0044 1397 772 376) Fax: 01397 772 007 (International: 0044 1397 772 007) email: relax@linnhelochsideholidays.co.uk www.linnhelochsideholidays.co.uk

Touring and Holiday Home Park www.riversideleisurecentre.co.uk

Luxury Holiday Homes Available To Rent At Southport’s Premier Holiday Park Amenities Include: Children’s Play Park Well Stocked General Store Bo ffer yo ok i ily O 99 ur n Fishing On Site Fam hts £2 9 for Tour ig 19 on er n £ 7 ly hts ore £ ig pe 15 3 n for m n! Adult Lounge Bar r n igh Call rmatio t! info Family Room Large Dog Walk Inclusive Funky Monkey Children’s Club 9 Hole Golf Course Adjecent to Park

Riverside Holiday Park, Southport New Road Banks, Southport, PR9 8DF T: 01704 228886 www.riversideleisurecentre.co.uk 38 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

family holidays

family holidays in Morecambe, Lancs. Ideally situated in the West End of the

.......................................................................................................................................

across Morecambe Bay to the Lakeland hills beyond. Famed for its golden sunsets, the most spectacular migatory bird watching in the country, and possessing a new, superb promenade - ‘England’s most talked about seafront’, Morecambe English seaside holidays for individuals and families alike, with breathtaking scenery, invigorating sea air and a wealth of activities for all ages. The Gizella Holiday Flats are conveniently located for Morecambe's town centre shopping facilities and the numerous multi-screen cinema, 10 Pin Bowling Alley, water sports and Happy Mount Park. T: 01524 418249. 8 Marine Rd, West End, LA3 1BS

Jacks House is small, friendly family run Guest

accommodation in a happy, relaxed atmosphere. All of our newly decorated bedrooms are provided with freshly laundered towels, we have a selection of en-suite and standard rooms, all have complimentary

boards are available. The spacious dining room is the perfect place to enjoy our excellent home cooked meals, all of which are prepared from locally bar and late keys and everyone is welcome, families and couples, stag and For more information, please contact Brian or Debbie on 01253 752190 or visit www.jackshouseblackpool.org.uk

14 Kirby Rd, Blackpool, FY1 6EB

After having a baby, many parents believe holidays are out of the question for at least three/four years. This needn’t be the case, Family Diving, the UK’s only independent family diving made packages to “real” holiday destinations, all of which include childcare. Family Diving will make life as “painless” as possible for those travelling with children in tow by focusing on providing the any airport, pick from a range of accommodation and set the

The Bulstone Hotel. Close to the dramatic East Devon “Jurassic Coastline” in Branscombe, this 16th century hotel is set in just over three acres, making it ideal for children. Glorious beaches are close by & many local attractions offer exciting family days out. With 7 family suites, 4 family units, home cooked family food with candle lit adult only evening dinner. This hotel offers an ideal location for a relaxing break with all the family.

www.childfriendlyhotels.com

Self Catering Holidays

Treginegar Farmhouse (sleeps 10) & 7 holiday bungalows (sleeps 46) available for all year lets

facilities (for children from 6 months to 8 years) running alongside diving times in two of its resorts - Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt and Gozo, Malta – allowing both parents to enjoy a being professionally cared for. For those with children of eight years and over, there is the Bubblemaker Course and children of 10 years up can learn to dive in open water.

4 miles from Padstow, Cornwall. Beautiful sea & country views. t: 01841 521920 e: treginegar@hotmail.com w: www. treginegar.com

Call Family Diving on 01285 869 679, or visit the website www.familydiving.co.uk for further details.

family holidays

39 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

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Set in seven acres of beautiful Cornish countryside, the ideal base for exploring Cornwall, be it walking along the stunning Cornish Coastline with its secluded coves and wonderful Polperro and Looe or visiting the Eden project and the many just unwinding away from the hustle and bustle of every day

01772 641536, 459418 or 436518

the spa or sauna. Andy and Linda two of the family who own Fox Valley time for a friendly chat.

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family holidays

Visit our showroom for personal assistance and advice

Coventry

Straight after the excitement of giving birth, probably the last thing on your mind is donning a swimming costume and visiting your local pool. However, swimming with your baby is fantastic for a whole host of reasons, and the earlier you start the better.

The The first first few few months months of of your your baby’s baby’s life life are are an an incredibly incredibly precious precious time, time, and and swimming swimming together together in in aa warm, warm, calm, calm, nurturing nurturing environment environment will will only only enhance enhance this this experience. experience. Skin Skin to to skin skin contact contact is is key key in in strengthening strengthening the the bond bond between between the the two two of of you you and and you’ll be amazed at how you’ll be amazed at how quickly quickly your your baby baby will will learn learn to to respond respond to to key key commands, commands, in in turn turn stimulating stimulating their their brain brain for for new new learning. learning.

Obviously Obviously water water safety safety is is aa primary primary motivator motivator in in many many parents’ parents’desire desire to to teach teach their their babies babies to to swim. swim. Children Children can can learn learn vital vital life life saving saving techniques techniques from from remarkably remarkably early early on; on; such such as as falling falling in in off off the the side, side, turning turning around around underwater, underwater, surfacing surfacing and grabbing and grabbing onto onto the the nearest nearest solid solid object. object. Given Given the the fact fact that that children children usually usually drown drown because because they’re they’re paralysed paralysed by by the the shock shock of of

submersion, submersion, you you can can easily easily see see how how complete complete confidence confidence in in water, water, plus plus aa solid solid bank bank of of skills, skills, will will put put your your child child in in an an incredibly incredibly strong strong position. position. In In fact, fact, using using our our methods, methods, children children as as young young as as two two years years old old have have been been known known to to fall fall in, in, calmly calmly swim swim to to the the side side and and await await help help -- aa wonderful wonderful outcome outcome that, that, had had they they not not learnt learnt to to swim swim from from birth, birth, would would have have certainly certainly meant meant tragedy. tragedy.

Not all baby swimming courses are the same, so it’s important you look around carefully before signing up. Many sessions are more about water familiarisation, where games and songs are sung, you and your baby can meet other new parents and very little submersion or progression work is done. For many parents these sessions are great, as they’re not looking for a more structured course where they have to attend every week. The benefits of more technically worked out programme like Water Babies are that you will clearly see your child progress, to the point where they are very likely to be swimming by the age of two. The most important thing is that, whether you choose to do a course or take your baby swimming alone, you do so in an environment where you are both completely relaxed and having fun. Just make sure that the water is warm enough (32 degrees for babies under 12 lbs or 12 weeks, 30 degrees when Straight afterand thedon’t excitethey’re older) ment of giving birth, spend longer than 20 to 30 minutes in the the pool. Often probably last thing local pools are cooler than on your mind is donning so it’s a great idea to athis, swimming costume purchase a baby wetsuit and visiting your local (www.splashabout.net are pool. However, swimgreat for these). Also, never ming with your baby is submerge your baby unless fantastic a wholelesson. you’re in a for supervised Babies have atand leastthe five host ofcan reasons, reactions to going underwaearlier you start the ter, and whilst they’re

better.

absolutely fine with it, it’s always best they do so with the help of a fully trained professional who understands the process.

Nayna Patel loved her Water Babies experience so much that when she realised she could set up her own Water babies classes, she jumped at the opportunity. Nayna first took her twin girls, Freya and Ella, to baby swimming sessions in Bristol, ‘The twins were born five weeks premature, which is one of the reasons we took them swimming,’ Nayna recalls. The few months of your ‘I’m first convinced it’s why they baby’s life are an incredibly flourished so rapidly; the precious and time theytime, spent inswimming water together in a warm, calm, allowing them to develop nurturing environment will their muscles in a way that only enhance this experience. just couldn’t happen on Skin land.’to skin contact is key in strengthening the bond After starting with a whole between the two of you and raft of activities for the girls, you’ll be amazed at how swimming was the only one quickly your baby will–learn to they continued with respond to key commands, despite the difficulties of in turn stimulating their brain managing not one but two for new learning.

babies in the water . ‘It is really hard coping with twins,’ says Nayna, ‘especially when it comes to physical activities. However, I was really lucky in that the staff at Water Babies were so helpful; they actually found me someone to swim one of my babies each week!’

Nayna and her husband Kash had been wanting to move closer back home and when her research revealed that there are not nearly as many activities for babies in the North West as there are further South they decided to bring Water Babies with them. Nayna’s hunch certainly paid Obviously water safety is a in off. Since starting classes primary motivator in many January 2006 she’s grown parents’ desire to teach their rapidly and now she and her babies to swim. team run more than one Children learnavital hundredcan classes weeklife in saving techniques from across North Manchester remarkably early‘Ion; such as and Lancashire. absolutely falling in off the side, turning love it,’ she says. ‘Seeing how around underwater, surfacing excited parents are as their and grabbing the children swimonto underwater nearest solid object. Given for the first time, it always the fact that children usually takes me back to how proud drown because they’re and elated Kash and I felt paralysed by the shock of

seeing our twins do the same. There are so many reasons why bringing your baby swimming is important. Not only are you helping teach them a core skill and confidence in water that will

remain with them for the rest of their lives, but it’s really good for their physical and mental development and an incredibly sociable occasion where you’ll both make plenty of new friends.’

submersion, you can easily see how complete confidence Water classes in water, Babies plus a solid bank of run across North skills, will put your child in an incredibly strongand position. In Manchester fact, using our methods, Lancashire. To find out children as young as two moreoldabout classes years have been known to look at swim to the side fall in, calmly and await help - a wonderful www.waterbabies.co.uk outcome that, had they not or call 01204 846 003 learnt to swim from birth, would have certainly meant tragedy.

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CARRYING your baby in a sling is an increasingly popular trend, with the likes of Nicole Kidman, Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Kate Hudson, and Gwen Stefani all spotted toting their offspring in a carrier.

“We’ve all had the experience of being stopped in the street and asked where we bought our slings numerous times. And many of us have only found a suitable one after initially making an expensive mistake.

Now free, independent and unbiased advice is available for anyone who wants to carry their baby with the launch of the SlingGuide website www.slingguide.co.uk

“Information on how to find a sling is available but it’s in bits and pieces all over the web, and much of it is unintelligible to a person who isn’t ‘clued-up’ on the jargon. Very few new or expectant parents have the time to sit down and research for hours on the internet.

More and more mothers and fathers are discovering the joys of hands-free baby care, and a sling is fast becoming a ‘must-have’ on new parents’ wish-lists. But, confronted with a bewildering array of types and brands on the market, few have any idea of where to start looking for a suitable sling. The SlingGuide website, run by experienced sling users who are all unpaid volunteers, aims to guide parents through the types available, demonstrate the advantages for babies and parents, and help them find a carrier which is just right for them. With a comprehensive list of UK sellers and makers, all of whom have received at least three independent recommendations, and downloadable information, SlingGuide’s founders intend the site to make choosing and using a sling as easy as ABC. Heather Chinn, a member of the team behind SlingGuide, explained why the founders felt the website was needed:

“We felt there was a real need for a site which collected together the available information in one place and presented it in simple, straightforward language.” Slings, once seen as strictly for unconventional types, are rapidly growing in popularity as people discover the convenience of getting out and about without needing to take the pushchair, being able to get chores done and pay attention to older children while keeping the newest member of the family happy, and their almost magical ability to soothe a grizzly or colicky infant. Trendy they may seem, but they are simply a revival of a custom practised worldwide. The Welsh shawl, most recently endorsed by former Catatonia lead singer Cerys Matthews, was widely used to carry babies within living memory and many Welsh sling users have been approached by older generations for whom the sight of a sling prompts nostalgia for their own baby carrying days. 45 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

Let Them Eat Cake

Vintage style clothing with a thoroughly modern edge by Felicity Lynch

46 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

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The Risks: t $IJMESFO UPVDI VQ UP TVSGBDFT FWFSZ NJOVUFT NFBOJOH UIBU WJSVTFT DBO CF EJÃ³DVMU UP DPOUBJO JO UIF IPNF t 8IJMF NPTU BEVMUT TVÃ²FS CFUXFFO UXP BOE UISFF DPMET FBDI ZFBS DIJMESFO DBO IBWF HELP PROTECT YOUR CFUXFFO GPVS BOE FJHIU t $IJMESFO BHFE TJY UP UFO FAMILY AGAINST COLD IBWF UIF IJHIFTU Ã¸V JOGFDUJPO AND FLU THIS WINTER SBUFT BOE TDIPPM DIJMESFO BSF BMTP JOGFDUJPVT MPOHFS UIBO 'BNJMJFT XJUI DIJMESFO HFU Ã¶WF UJNFT BEVMUT NPSF DPMET BOE Ã¸V UIBO GBNJMJFT t PG JOGFDUJPOT BSF TQSFBE XJUIPVU DIJMESFO PGUFO QBTTJOH UIF CZ IBOE TBNF DPME CFUXFFO POF BOPUIFS XIJDI t 5IF Ã¸V WJSVT DBO MJWF PVUTJEF NFBOT UIBU HPPE IZHJFOF BU IPNF JT UIF CPEZ GPS IPVST NPSF JNQPSUBOU UIBO FWFS UIJT XJOUFS .JOJNJTJOH UIF SJTLT *O NBLJOH UIFNTFMWFT BXBSF PG UIF %S %BXO )BSQFS GBNPVT SJTLT QPTFE CZ UIF GBNJMZ IPNF BOE DBS GBNJMZ (1 BOE NPUIFS PG UISFF FOWJSPONFOU IPXFWFS GBNJMJFT DBO QSPWJEFT BEWJDF BT UP IPX UP BQQMZ TJNQMF NFBTVSFT UP IFMQ NJOJNJTF UIF TQSFBE PG HFSNT NJOJNJTF UIF TQSFBE PG DPME BOE Ã¸V UIJT BVUVNO i*O MJOF XJUI WJSVTFT BDDPSEJOH UP %S %BXO )BSQFS %FQBSUNFOU PG )FBMUI T i$BDI BOE ,MFFOFYÂ¥ "OUJ 7JSBM UJTTVFT JU #JO JU ,JMM JUw SFDPNNFOEB-

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!"#$%&'$'($)&$*+",)+-$./)-$+-/+0#1(&23 Chickenpox is caused by a virus called varicella-zoster 90% of children catch chickenpox Most children are affected before the age of 10, however it most commonly affects children 0-4 years

!"#$%&'()"*+,-$./"0)1&/,23&$ 4"5+6$7*8$91(&'*3$:'6"/; The itching misery of chickenpox could now be over for many children, with the launch of new Care Virasoothe Chickenpox Relief Cooling Gel which is clinically proven to provide relief from chickenpox symptoms. Care Virasoothe contains Osmo 4, a breakthrough technology which works through the process of osmosis to cool the skin. This cooling effect helps stop the urge to scratch and eases parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; worries about scarring as it reduces the chance of infection. Care Virasoothe is a clear, odourless gel specifically formulated to deal with the distressing symptoms of chickenpox and is suitable to use on children from 6 months. Rubbing the gel into the affected areas two or three times a day, or whenever relief is required, will: t 1SPWJEF DPPMJOH BOE soothing relief to the skin t 4VQQPSU UIF TLJOT PXO natural healing process t )FMQ SFEVDF TDBSSJOH Care Virasoothe can be used all over the face and body and is available in 50g and 75g tubes. Chickenpox affects most children at some time but it is most common in children under 4 years old with peak incidences in the winter and early spring. It can be a very worrying time for parents, and chickenpox is often the first real illness a child goes

UISPVHI 1BSFOUT XPSSZ BCPVU first trying to recognise the symptoms and secondly trying to stop the itch. It is one of the first occasions when hugs and kisses from parents just arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t enough! In a new chickenpox survey, parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; main worries were: The discomfort caused by t DPOTUBOU JUDIJOH t 1PTTJCMF TDBSSJOH GSPN scratching spots t #MJTUFST CFDPNJOH JOGFDUFE t 4MFFQMFTT OJHIUT All worries which can now be eased by new Care Virasoothe BT JU IFMQT CSFBL UIF *5$) 4$3"5$) */'&$5*0/ DZDMF At last there is now a product that will revolutionise the way we treat chickenpox and end the itching misery! Care Virasoothe costs ÂŁ5.49 for 50g and ÂŁ7.99 for 75g and JT BWBJMBCMF GSPN #PPUT 4BJOTCVSZ T -MPZET 4VQFSdrug, Tesco, Morrisonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pharmacy, Co-op pharmacy and independent pharmacies.

Outbreaks of chickenpox are usually widespread, with peak incidences in winter and early spring Chickenpox is one of the most common illness TFBSDIFE GPS PO UIF /)4 Choices Website Chickenpox is transferred through airborne droplets of infection e.g. when the infected person coughs or sneezes, and is highly contagious A person with chickenpox is infectious from about 2 days before the rash appears until about 5 days after The most common symptoms are an itchy red rash and mild flu-like symptoms â&#x20AC;&#x201C; chickenpox may start as a cold but then the rash appears up to six days later Chickenpox is a virus, so the disease cannot be treated, though the symptoms can be managed After having chickenpox

once, it is rare to get the condition again as the body develops immunity to the virus 'JOEJOHT GSPN $IJDLFOQPY TVSWFZ DPOEVDUFE CZ (', /01 BEVMUT BDSPTT UIF 6, took part in a survey and 701 with children under 16 answered questions about their experience of chickenpox. 64% of parents had experienced chickenpox with one or more of their children Itching was seen as the worst TZNQUPN GPMMPXFE CZ discomfort and irritability BOE VOTJHIUMZ TQPUT 3FTUMFTT OJHIUT BOE GFWFS XFSF DPOTJEFSably lower on the list of concerns. 1PTTJCMF TDBSSJOH BOE discomfort caused by itching XFSF UIF UXP HSFBUFTU concerns, followed by preventing the child from scratching the spots / fear of DIJME CFDPNJOH WFSZ JMM and spots becoming infected 25% would take their child to B DIJDLFOQPY QBSUZ BOE had already done this. Younger parents were the most likely to do this with ZFBS PMET TBZJOH JU is something they would do.

'PS GVSUIFS JOGPSNBUJPO BCPVU chickenpox or Care Virasoothe, visit: www.itchi.co.uk Care Virasoothe forms part of the Care range of products for everyday ailments, information about other products in the Care range can be found by visiting: www.caremedicines.co.uk

49 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

www.bentleyorganic.com Ensuring your home is a safe haven for your newborn baby to grow, learn and explore can seem like an arduous task. However, creating a sterile, sanitary environment is the first step in preparing your little one for a life of health and well-being, by preventing the spread of germs and bacteria that often cause illness and infection. Bentley Organic Toy and Hand Sanitizers kill germs on contact the gentle way, ensuring your new baby is safe – in your hands and in your home.

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Baby nose-clear’s award-winning products are designed to ease congestion and deliver welcome relief to mothers of young infants. The Baby nose-clear aspirator gently cleanses and clears the delicate nasal passages effectively, allowing clearer breathing, easier feeding and consequently more restful sleep. Simply wash in warm soapy water and use again and again! Baby Nose-Clear’s Room Vapour contains a natural blend of 100% pure and essential gentle oils with anti-bacterial properties. The vapour eases breathing, helping a baby have a better night’s sleep. Both Baby nose-clear products are available at £6.99 from Boots, Tesco and Mothercare stores, independent pharmacies and online at www.4little1.com.

The Hairforce – Lice Assassins

Savlon Healing Gel www.colief.com Colic is defined as repeated episodes of excessive and inconsolable crying in a newborn baby which otherwise appears to be perfectly healthy. The condition affects up to 1 in 5 babies and can be incredibly upsetting for all concerned. The exact causes are unclear, however, when babies show symptoms of colic, treating possible lactase deficiency is one of the first recommended steps . A one week trial of Colief Infant Drops, which contain the naturally-occurring enzyme lactase, can help rule out or identify transient lactase deficiency.

Are lice doing your head in? We are always hearing about how mums spend hours and hours battling nits and head lice, and then find that weeks later they are still hanging in there. The common consensus is that the majority of head lice have developed immunity to the products, making many parents efforts fruitless. However we have heard of The Hairforce – Lice Assassins, a nit and lice removal service who’s highly skilled Lice Assassins will clear it for you – and they guarantee it. They work by hand, so no chemicals or treatments are used – and they are equipped to clear with lice hoovers, specialist lighting, magnifying visors, nit combs and tweezers, plus a streak of ruthlessness to go with them. While they clear, your child is treated like the most important person in the world – comfy in a specialist massage chair, and entertained with the latest computer games and DVD’s. With The Hairforce – Lice Assassins you never have to worry about clearing nits and lice ever again, saving yourself both valuable time and money in the long run. Hotlines: 020 7485 7351 or 07720 838 271

50 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

Priced at £11.99, Colief is available from pharmacies nationwide. For help and advice, call the Colief Infant Drops Helpline on (0800) 0281187 or visit www.colief.com The Department of Health’s Catch it, Bin it, Kill it urges people to cover coughs and sneezes with tissues, throw them away and wash their hands in order to help protect themselves against cold and flu. Kleenex® Anti-Viral is the only tissue that kills 99.9% of cold and flu viruses in the tissue, making it the ideal accessory to stay virus-free. Kleenex has also recently widened its Anti-Viral range of products with a Hygiene Kit, which includes two pocket packs of Anti-Viral tissues and a 50ml Antibacterial Hand Foam. The Hand Foam requires no water making it the perfect handbag or pocket accompaniment for when you’re out and about. Kleenex has been helping teachers in over 50% of primary schools in the UK to teach children good hygiene habits through its Sneezesafe programme (sneezesafe.co.uk)

Savlon is dispelling the myth that scabs are good and educating consumers that actually the best way to heal a minor wound is to keep it moist. Savlon Advanced Healing Gel, voted product of the year 2009, can be used throughout the healing process to actively aid faster healing, soothe pain with its cooling effect and reduce the likelihood of scarring. Containing a unique hydrocolloid formula, Savlon brings hospital technology to the high street. Available in a 50g tube, Savlon Advanced Healing Gel is priced at £3.91 (RRP) For further information visit www.savlon.co.uk *Voted Product of the Year in the Kid’s Health Care category by a survey of 12,026 people by TNS As bugs can remain virulent for up to 24 hours in a used tissue, Kleenex recommends to teachers and general tissue users that in order to reduce the risk of transmission of viruses, people should follow a simple three step rule, which is in line with DoH guidelines: t CMPX ZPVS OPTF JOUP B tissue t EJTQPTF PG JU BT TPPO BT possible t UIFO XBTI ZPVS IBOET Kleenex Anti-Viral tissues retail at £1.92 and are sold in all major retailers and independent pharmacies. Kleenex Hygiene Kits can now be purchased for £3.79 from Waitrose, Tesco’s, Morrison’s and independent pharmacies.

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!"#$%&'()'""*+,%*+%!'-'+%./01% More than 750,000 children in the UK accidentally wet their beds at night. According to figures published by the British Medical Journal, 20% of five-year-olds have difficulty in controlling their bladders at night-time and it remains a problem for 3% of all 15-year-olds. The actual numbers are likely to be even higher as bedwetting is still a taboo subject which many parent are not happy to discuss – in many cases, it isn’t even talked about within the family. Bedwetting – also known as nocturnal enuresis – has serious consequences, including a lack of confidence and low self-esteem, with children often failing to reach their full potential. Invitations to sleepovers have to be refused, while school trips, camps and even family holidays are met with fear. Left untreated, prolonged childhood bedwetting can lead to difficulties forming relationships and finding work, susceptibility to stress, anxiety and even depression. Studies show that bedwetting children who are given professional help and advice are more likely to become dry than those who are left to ‘grow out of’ the habit. Stop Bedwetting in Seven Days is a major new step-bystep guide, written by Alicia Eaton, an expert in the use of NLP and hypnosis in children, which aims to help children and parents conquer bedwetting in just one week. Here,

she shares her top tips for helping your child kick the bedwetting habit. 1. If your child is continuing to be wet at night after the age of five, it's a good idea to have a check-up with your GP to rule out the possibility of any medical causes, such as an infection which can be easily cleared up with antibiotics. 2. For the majority of children, the cause is simply a case of habit, so don’t automatically assume that there’s an emotional reason behind the wet beds. However, if your child has been dry for several months or even years and suddenly starts having wet beds, first consult your GP and then have a think about whether a change at home or stress at school could be a contributory factor. 3. After the age of five, it’s best to remove any nappies or pull-ups worn at night and simply protect the mattress from now on. Your child’s mind is more likely to make that vital mind/body link if he can actually feel the wetness as it happens. 4. Make night-time changes easier by putting two layers of sheets on the bed and slipping an absorbent pad in between. If your child does wet in the night, you’ll be able to remove the top layer leaving a dry ready-made bed for your child to climb back into. 5. Avoid ‘lifting’ – waking your

child at around 11pm and taking them to the loo just before you go to bed yourself is, in fact, ‘training’ them to not only release urine when they’re half asleep, but also to develop a need to go to the toilet in the middle of the night. 6. Avoid using 'reward systems' to encourage dry nights. Introducing treats such as money, toys or sweets will only distract your child at just the moment they need to be concentrating on their 'goal' - dry beds. There'll be plenty to reward your child once he becomes successful, such as worry-free sleepovers and school trips.

them feel that this space belongs as much to them as to the adults in the house. 10. Stay positive – remain encouraging and enthusiastic throughout this period of re-training. Avoid giving any negative feedback – even a raised eyebrow will let your child know that you’re not happy. This will only make it harder for him to succeed as his ‘self-image’ will consist of feelings of failure. Remind your child of all the other things they were successful at learning, such as writing their name, tying shoelaces or hopping on one leg. This is just one more thing that they’ll learn how to do.

7. Ensure the route to the bathroom is well lit at night, perhaps even leaving a light on in there. But do avoid night-lights in the bedroom itself – your child will experience a deeper, better quality sleep if the room is dark and this alone may ensure a dry night.

Stop Bedwetting in Seven Days is a tried-and-tested guide, incorporating the latest techniques and success strategies from the fields of positive 8. Clear away clutter – your psychology, hypnotherapy and NLP. child needs to feel confident These techniques complement a about getting up out of bed child’s natural development and in the middle of the night encourage vital mind and body should he need to use the connections to be made. Once these bathroom. Check that the are established, both the child and the route is completely clear, parent can look forward to a lifetime of without left-over jigsaw puzzles, toys and dirty clothes dry nights. It comes with a free downloadable recording for children getting in the way. to listen to, available from www.stopbedwettingin7days.co.uk 9. Make the bathroom child-friendly and allow your filled with positive suggestions to help them change their unwanted bedwetchild to choose some of the accessories, such as colourful ting habit. The website also features advice and guidance for parents. handtowels. This will help 51 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

They’re home, they’re fed, the telly’s off and now it’s the Homework Horror Hour! A recent survey carried out by the Government’s “Get On” Campaign reveals that 7 in 10 parents are wary of helping their children with their homework and are finding it increasingly difficult to understand and lend a hand in their children’s schoolwork. Children live and learn in two worlds – home and school. The way these two worlds interact and communicate can make an enormous difference in how your child manages in both places. You, your child and your child’s teacher need to trust each other and listen and talk regularly to each other to get the best out of your child. Of course, family life is very different today than it was a generation ago. You probably spend far less time together than families in the past. You may face an up hill struggle to balance the demands of your family life and your career or may lack the confidence to help due to your own school experiences. But that doesn’t stop you from encouraging your children, listening to them explaining about what they are leaning or helping them find out information with them on the Internet or from the library.

52 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

It’s about showing an interest, sitting with them and encouraging them, or teaching them where to find the information out if you can’t help or don’t know. It’s about bonding with your kids, spending time with them when things are a bit tricky and not leaving them feel abandoned in confusion. It also builds the “we” or team mentality in your family where you help each other out. It’s also about showing them that you value homework and learning. Your involvement tells your child that education is important and valued by you. Research has shown that children from all walks of life really benefit from having you show an interest in their school work regardless of whether you are divorced, separated or happily married. All children struggle at times at school so don’t panic or feel bad when a problem occurs. Talk to your child’s teacher to find out exactly what’s happening. Encourage your child to ask their teacher themselves. As a former class teacher I loved it when a child asked me to explain something. I was there to help….. I enjoyed helping …. it showed me that the child was keen to learn or interested in what I was talking about. So encourage your child to ask as it also teaches them to take responsibility for their own

learning long term.

Sue Atkins is a Parent Coach, former Deputy Head with 22 I think it helps if parents years teaching experience, realise that homework is all mother to two teenage about consolidating your children and is an NLP Master child’s learning not trying to Practitioner and Trainer catch them out or terrify trained by Paul McKenna. She them about what they don’t has written many books on know. They shouldn’t have to self esteem, toddlers and do something completely teenagers and has a collecnew, it’s more about reinforc- tion of Parenting Made Easy ing what they’ve already Toolkits available from her learnt at school. website. She is also the author of "Raising Happy Children for Children develop at different Dummies" one in the black rates and most children are and yellow series published more advanced in some areas worldwide and a Judge for and slower in others. We all the National Family Week have strengths and weak“Family of the Year” Competinesses. In our house I help tion. To receive her free with creative writing and my newsletter bursting with husband helps with maths. practical tips and helpful But it’s more about just being advice from toddler to teen willing to sit down, get log onto involved and help in http://www.positivewhatever way we can. parents.com

Here are some of my Positive Parent = Confident Kids Tips to help with homework: Discuss Homework. Give your child a chance to talk about their school work if they want to. Even if you know nothing about a particular subject, you can still help just by talking and listening and helping them find their own answers. Encourage your child. Help your child take responsibility for organising and doing their homework and never forget to praise them for their hard work or their improved concentration, handwriting or presentation. Use available tools. Many schools have a homework diary, or daybook for parents to sign each day, so show your interest, commitment and respect for your child by signing it regularly. This helps you and your child know that their homework is being monitored and also builds up goodwill between yourself and the school.

Help your child keep to a routine. Some children prefer to do homework straight after school, whereas others prefer to ‘unwind’ first, or have their meal then do homework later. Let your child decide. Establish a study zone. It’s also very important to try to create a suitable place where your child can do their homework, ideally somewhere with a clear work surface, good lighting and no interruptions. Try to teach younger brothers and sisters not to get jam on their books or to interrupt when homework is being done. It’s worth remembering that some children like to work with music on to keep them company.

library with your child and encourage them to use it. They can use computers there to get on the internet if you do not have access at home. Get tech savvy. The internet can be great for looking up things and finding out more so encourage your child to become an independent learner and to go the “extra mile” with their studies.

Allow for differences. Children are all different and have different learning styles and some prefer to study alone, whereas others like to study with friends or family.

Read together. As parents you are your child’s first teacher, and one really practical way to help your child is to read together, particularly when your child first starts school. But even as children get older they still love to be read to - and remember to share the stories between both parents, as Dads are powerful role models and have a strong influence on their son’s attitude to reading. Let them see you and older children read.

Use resources. If there isn’t space in your home try a local library or some schools offer a homework club. Visit the local

Listen to your children read little and often on a regular basis and you will really notice a huge improvement in your child’s reading ability

and confidence. Try taking your children to the library to get a library card and help them find books to suit their interests and hobbies. Libraries are very keen to help you find suitable books and during the summer holidays they often run exciting competitions and reading events to encourage your child to enjoy reading. Offer rewards. Make homework rewarding by setting up some treats like staying up 10 minutes later or watching 10 minutes extra on the computer or having a friend round or playing a game with you. If your child needs that little “extra” encouragement from time to time. It’s about getting the balance right, feeling at ease and confident around schoolwork and just “being there” to lend a hand or a listening ear so who knows, the old tradition of children getting home from school, hanging up their school coat and sitting round the kitchen table with you to do their homework may not be a thing of the past! 53 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

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Most children waiting for adoption have suffered neglect, violence and disproportionate hardship for such short lives. The support these children can need is more than many people bargain for. But whilst these needs can sometimes be challenging, adoption can also be highly rewarding. Adoptive mum Kim is married and now in her late 40s. Several years ago they adopted two sisters aged three and five. She’s well aware of the difficulties that adopting children from care can bring, yet she also couldn’t imagine a world with out her girls. “We all went mad for a bit, even the dogs. It was total freefall but a great adventure. You just can’t prepare yourself for the excess emotional and physical strains, but I think as long as you trust yourself then its fine.” Kim is also aware of the perceptions of the adoption process being difficult, but says for them it was more of a journey. “There was a degree of nervousness at first as to whether we could do it, but as soon as we started the process we relaxed. Rather then the social worker judging our ability, it was more about self-assessment. There were a lot of things that we hadn’t considered before we started the process, such as adopting a child with disabilities or exposure to physical abuse. The process provided enough time to fully explore our thoughts and with the help of our social worker, we came to realise the kind of child we could be the best parents for. “It’s hard to fully understand adoption until you have first hand experience of the process. ‘Assessment process’ implies scrutinising and judgement but in reality it is

56 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

more of a preparation process. All along the way you are reaching life changing emotional moments and everyone involved is happy for you, willing you forward. We felt no judgement, only support and our social worker soon felt like a friend.” The British Association of Adoption & Fostering (BAAF), a charity which looks to raise the profile of adoption and help find families for children that need them most is, this year, running the thirteenth annual National Adoption Week. This year’s event, which runs from the 9th – 15th November, is asking prospective adoptive parents to think about whether they could provide a home for an older child, a sibling group, a child with disabilities or other children who may wait longer to be adopted. “Up to the 1970s there were thousands of relinquished babies every year,” Says chief executive, David Holmes. “But society has changed hugely since then and this is now much less common. The majority of children needing adoption today have been taken into local authority care before being adopted. Most have suffered abuse, neglect or other severe family problems. Despite the high profile of adoption, people still don’t realise adopters are desperately needed for vulnerable children whose early lives are likely to have been traumatic or chaotic. It is crucial people understand the reality of adoption if we are to recruit the right families for those children who need them.” He adds: “There has been a drop in the number of adoptions in some parts of the UK. Without suitable adopters many children will continue to wait in care for far too long and

some will never find a permanent and loving family of their own – something every child deserves”. Celebrity adoptions, a spotlight on social care and new legislation for various parts of the UK means that adoption is often within the public gaze. An issue which BAAF is keen to address is the high level of adoption support available to all adoptive families. People from all walks of life are encouraged to consider adoption and are often eligible for a variety of help and support. You must be over 21 years of age to adopt but there is no upper age limit, although most agencies consider that there should be no more than an age gap of 45 years between child and adoptive parent. You don’t have to be married to adopt, and single people and gay and lesbian couples can apply. You do not need to own your own home to adopt, and you don’t necessarily have to be a stay at home parent. As Kim explains, adoption support can be invaluable: “Adoption support has always been there if we’ve needed it, without being intrusive. You have a

lot of support in the first month and more after then if you need it. It’s reassuring to know that support is not just going to suddenly disappear after those first few weeks. The local schools were amazing, offering support whenever we needed it” Kim also feels that by adopting siblings, their family has developed an extra degree of security: “Many children in care have had a total lack of consistency. By adopting our two girls, they have supported each other and provided a constant in each others lives. When they joined us, they didn’t just become a part of our original family, we became a whole new one, its mind blowing to behold.” There will be events with information and advice on adoption taking place all across the UK in November. To find out more about National Adoption Week or any other aspect of adoption, please visit our website.

www. nationaladoptionweek.org.uk

Considering adoption

There are many common misconceptions about adoption in the UK. Many people would imagine a young unmarried mother giving up her baby at birth, but in reality that’s rarely the case.

Four out of ten children can’t tell the difference between a bee and a wasp, according to a new study. Biodiversity is crucial to safeguard life on earth, but British children are becoming increasingly disengaged from nature, lacking even the basic knowledge needed to identify everyday animals, insects and plants, according to a survey of 1,500 five to ten year olds. The survey was commissioned by aircraft manufacturer Airbus, as part of their commitment to raise awareness of biodiversity and educate children about this pressing issue. Results showed that 37 per cent of youngsters didn’t know what a bee looked like, with more than a third mistaking it for a wasp. Three per cent even got it mixed up with a fly. But it’s not just insects that dumbfound our kids. Almost one third (30 per cent) have no idea what a mouse looks like, with six per cent confusing it with a gerbil. And nearly two thirds also struggled to tell a toad and a frog apart. Kids were unsure when it came to larger animals too,

with one in 20 having no idea that a polar bear lives in a snowy landscape. And it’s no better when it comes to plants – although girls are much better at identifying flowers. Boys were six times more likely to mistake a tulip for a daisy, and twice as likely to confuse a dandelion for a sunflower when compared to their female counterparts. Dr. Ahmed Djoghlaf, the Executive Secretary of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), said: “The survey results show that children’s knowledge of biodiversity is in decline at a time when we need future generations to be more engaged and aware in order to halt its loss. “This highlights a very real need to educate our children as the future guardians of our planet, to provide them with the knowledge they need today to preserve the natural world for tomorrow.” Worryingly, half the children surveyed say they don’t learn enough about the environment at school and that’s despite one in eight wanting to know more about the natural world around them.

The survey also questioned 1,500 parents on their children’s knowledge of biodiversity and it highlighted that a staggering seven in ten parents are worried that their child does not know enough about the natural world.

people. It aims to inform and engage tomorrow’s decision makers in the crucial task of protecting the Earth’s biodiversity and halting its loss.

Over two-thirds of parents (69 per cent) are concerned that their children spend too much time indoors playing computer games. Over half of children (52 per cent) spent under two-hours per day playing outdoors.

“I wholeheartedly encourage the integration of business into biodiversity. The Government agrees that young people, as tomorrow’s custodians of today’s biodiversity, need to understand and be enthused about the importance of biodiversity and what it means for the protection of our future natural environment both here and across the globe. In the UK, we have been working with NGO’s to encourage youngsters to take part in environmental volunteering to enhance biodiversity in a fun and informative way through our Muck in4life campaign.

The research also highlighted that seventy three per cent of parents believe their child spends less time playing outside than they did when they were the same age, with the majority of parents spending more than forty per cent more time outside when they were younger than children today. Airbus believes it has a responsibility to the environment, as an industry leader with a global reach and as well as doing what it can to reduce its own impact, has committed its support to the CBD’s The Green Wave programme, a global outreach and education programme for young

Biodiversity Minister Huw Irranca-Davies said:

“The UK is delighted to support both the GreenWave initiative under the Convention on Biological Diversity, especially as we all look forward to promoting our natural environment through the Year of International Biodiversity in 2010.”

59 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

ISBN 978-0-9563791-2-2

Advertising Feature

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We are very happy with the growth of the company to date and we are confident that the company will continue to succeed and expand the training and support it can deliver. We are continuing to expand the number of accredited courses we offer, as well as our 1 and 2 day stand alone courses. Some highlights this year have been the successful completion of our NVQ Level 3 Supporting

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HEADS offer consultancy, advice and support on Behaviour Management, PMLD, Moving and Handling Training. Our trainers are available to facilitate workshops/all day sessions on request and can deliver criteria around the needs of the school. At Hadrian School we also offer Conference and Training Facilities including hospitality and the use of our Space for Sport and Arts Facility at very reasonable costs.

62 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

HEADS Office, Hadrian School, Bertram Crescent, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE15 6PY Telephone: 0191 273 4440 Fax: 0191 226 1150 Email: admin@hadrian.newcastle.sch.uk Website: www.hadrian.newcastle.sch.uk

!"#$%&'(%)(%*$+,-().*$*./%, 0.1(&,2(,$,3(**(#,4(#&4('*.1(, /%,+.5(,$%),6(+4&,2(,*/,3(,$, 2/#(,4$*.(%*,2/*6(#7,8,6$1(, $,%.%(9:($#9/+),&/%,$%),6(;, 2:,6<&3$%),$%),8,$++, 2().*$*(7,=&,$,#(&<+*;,5$2.+:, +.5(,.5,2<'6,2/#(,(%>/:$3+(?, 9,@$%(*,=:+.55( Transcendental Meditation™ is a simple mental technique that does not involve trying to control the mind in any way; nor does it involve thinking about something. Children as young as 5 do it without any difficulty. It is ease itself. Benefits for parents include:

Better sleep – More energy mental and physical Quality “me time” Greater happiness and capacity to enjoy Inner strength

Benefits for children include:

Calmer, more contented Greater stability More focus, ability to learn Reduced ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

Hundreds of scientific studies on Transdental Meditation as taught by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, published in leading journals have documented wideranging benefits for health, the emotions, mind, and interpersonal relationships. Adults do Transcendental Meditation for 20 minutes twice a day, sit ting comfortably with eyes closed. The course of instruction com prises oneandahalf hours on four consecutives days followed by periodic meetings, according to convenience, for six months. Certified Teachers are available in most parts of the country. Under 10s learn a simpler children’s version in just 45 minutes.

For more information phone 01695 51213 or visit www.tm.org.uk

Mum “healed” by Transcendental Meditation “Becoming a mum is the best thing that ever happened to me,” says Helle. “But when my three-and-a-half year old daughter said: ‘Mum, you are not happy’ I began to think: ‘Oh-ooh. This is not good! She has realised there is something wrong.’ But now, I am glad to say, she knows I am happy. Helle is a theatre nurse in a cardiac hospital – a very stressful job. And she’s studying part-time to become an anaesthetics nurse. With husband Morten and daughter Josephine, Helle lives a very active life, doing sport, going to the gym, swimming, and using weekends to get out and go places. “I am a doing machine!” she says. With being a parent too, life has been demanding. And then there is Helle’s mother, who has been chronically ill for many years, and her brother, diagnosed at the age of 30 as having ADHD, who has a criminal history. He was in court when Helle last returned with her family to Denmark. The emotional stress was more than Helle could take. Then, quite by chance, she saw a programme on TV about Transcendental Meditation. She recalls: “After hearing the benefits that people got after starting Transcendental Meditation, I felt ‘Wow! That’s what I want!’” Certain benefits really struck a chord with Helle: the ability to make decisions more easily, improved focus, and above all, peace of mind. She was in no doubt that she wanted to start as soon as possible. Morten was sympathetic and supportive to the idea. A few weeks later she had

completed a course of instruction with Anna, a certified teacher of Transcendental Meditation in London. An effortless mental technique introduced to the world 50 years ago by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, Transcendental Meditation is practised for 20 minutes twice daily, sitting quietly with eyes closed. A children’s version is taught to under-10s. It is not mind control, philosophy, or prayer: just a simple technique that provides a special quality of deep rest to mind and body. It does not require belief and can even be done successfully in a noisy environment, when necessary. “Those 20 minutes of silence were the quietest I had been for a long, long time. I felt I got in touch with my self, that inner peace, that person I am,” Helle says. “That was great. Now, as a parent, I am much more focused, calm, with better resources to give more, and can be more present for my daughter – calm, not stressed.” Learning to meditate gave her a break from all the emotional stress that had preoccupied her every waking minute. “I remember the first times I meditated,” she reflects, “I couldn’t close my eyes without my mother or brother coming to mind. But after a while there was quietness, just

For further information about Transcendental Meditation visit www.t-m.org.uk or call 01695 51213

silence.” One major difference Helle noticed in her relationship with Josephine is that, since learning TM, it has been easier to say “No”. In the past, when Josephine tried to get her way – like saying she was hungry straight after dinner to avoid going to bed, or insisting on the way to nursery that she wanted to do something else – rather than have a conflict with her, Helle would give in. “I felt so weak,” she recalls. “After learning Transcendental Meditation and getting stronger, and also doing other things to change myself, I feel much more able to set boundaries and to give direction and structure. I just feel more content and complete as a parent.” Morten also says he sees benefit when Helle meditates regularly: she doesn’t get stressed so much and is more giving and helpful. Helle does miss out her meditation some days, but when she does, she remembers what it feels like to be “all over

the place” and thinks: “I need to meditate!” “Through Transcendental Meditation I got myself together,” Helle states. “I am a more whole person. I feel healed from all the emotional stress. What I really feel with Transcendental Meditation is: I feel healed.” At work, Helle feels she is now very calm and relaxed, with a fresh mind. “All the stress does not get to me. I see how all my colleagues are stressed and think: ‘That’s how I used to be!’ I can enjoy my job now even though it is very stressful.” Asked what she would say to anyone who was not sure whether or not to try Transcendental Meditation themselves, Helle says: “Visit the websites and see the testimonials. A good one to start with is www.t-m.org.uk.”

Picturerd above: Helle Pettersen and family.

The way in which classrooms have been influenced by technology has changed throughout recent generations and it is by no surprise that a number of parents are curious to see inside the school doors and discover how their children spend their school days. From Wednesday 13 to Saturday 16 January 2010, members of the public, including teachers, parents and carers can do just this for free by attending BETT, the world’s largest education in technology show, at Olympia, London. With over 700 exhibitors, each showcasing different products and services, BETT is a great way to discover what solutions technology is offering the world of education. BusyBrains.com will be exhibiting on stand C50, an online store for parents and carers looking for enjoyable educational products to inspire their children to learn at home. On stand A60, Q&D Multimedia is launching ‘Busy Things’, an online service for early years, containing over 90 educational activities.

66 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

Activities span the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum and the Letters and Sounds National Strategy and can be customised to suit a wide range of abilities. On Stand S46, visitors can see BrainPOP UK, an engaging website for school children aged 7 to 13 years which offers access to hundreds of animated movies and interactive quizzes covering science, maths, humanities, arts, D&T, PSHE and citizenship. Serif’s ‘Digital Scrapbook Artist’ is being demonstrated on stand K36; a scrapbooking program to encourage children to make use of their family holiday snaps, pictures and more. Parents can help them decorate their page with photorealistic paper, materials and glitter. Parents looking for a resource that aims to ‘make it cool’ for students to succeed should visit stand Q22 where i am learning will be showcasing its games-based revision, homework and assessment system. The brand new area at BETT 2010, Playful Learning, is an exciting feature for parents

interested in seeing how games can have a positive impact on learning. Here, children and adults alike can test exciting educational games new to the market and find out about the positive impact of play, encouraging parents to put learning through play into practice at home. With such a large and plentiful show, visitors can make the most of the BESA (British Educational Suppliers Association) Information Point, to point them in the right direction for what they are looking for. Special educational needs (SEN) hold a strong presence at BETT, with a large number of exhibitors supplying innovative educational solutions for children with SEN. Not only that, the Special Needs Zone, hosted by nasen offers advice and information to parents, to help them find workable solutions for children with SEN. The SEN Seminar Theatre is also located in the SEN Zone and holds many SEN focused seminars whereby practitioners can share best

practice advice with others. Seminars are free to attend, but to guarantee a seat, visitors can pre-book online: www.BETTshow.com/FlyingSt art for £15+VAT. BETT is also a great way to keep up with the latest policy shifts, new funding initiatives and issues through the Policy in Practice Zone. Key Government agencies such as the DCSF, QCDA, TDA and SSAT are at the show to share information and answer questions. Parents can as a result enhance their understanding of how Government changes will affect their child’s education. To get the very best out of the show, visitors are encouraged to pre-plan their visit, by logging on to the BETT website (www.BETTshow.com/FlyingS tart) and using the MyBETT tool.

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We Want You!

PRE-SCHOOL EXPO as featured in the previous edition of Flying Start will now take place on the 26th & 27th March 2010 at the Central Hall, Westminster, London. The exhibition aims to showcase the latest products and services for patents with young children. Awareness of the importance of the Pre-School years, ( 18 months to 6 years ), in a child’s healthy mental and physical development has been growing steadily for a generation now and the market has responded by producing more and more innovative and useful tools to assist parents maximise their child’s ability and enjoyment through this crucial developmental period. Traditional consumer and education shows cover certain aspects of pre-school life, and therefore have attracted those relevant suppliers to each trying to reach the parent audience, but are not designed to fulfil all areas of raising a child during their pre-school years and therefore have fallen short on delivering this. Pre-School age is a special time for both your child and

yourself to nuture and enjoy so it is important to make the most of it by learning about the many great resources that there are available to maximise your child's development and enjoyment. Pre-School Expo showcases the latest products and services from the leading UK suppliers to the Pre-School market. It is divided into 4 main areas colour coded on the floorplan, making it easy to navigate around all the different products on show. These areas are Development and Play, Childcare and Education, Nutrition & Healthcare and Family life and Safe Environment. The show provides parents with the tools and ideas for raising happy and healthy children through their very important preschool years. It is free to attend if you register online now so you can take advantage of the great advice on all aspects of parenting from the childcare professionals present over the 2 days of the show. Visit www.preschoolexpo.com

Calling all Nursery Nurses....! We will be publishing a feature titled ‘A Day in the Life Of’... and are looking to feature you! Don’t be shy, send us an email about yourself and the role you play within your nursery. Maybe you have developed a new approach, created new daily tasks, if so, come one - we want to hear about it! Email editorial@flyingstartmagazine .co.uk

Nursery World Show The Nursery World Show is for everyone and anyone involved in the early years community The 2010 show is held on 22nd & 23rd January at the Business Design Centre in London. It is a vital source of practical help and information for early years practitioners and decision-makers in the public, private and voluntary sectors and offers an ideal opportunity for everyone working in the early years communitty to expand their business network and meet supplier companies and organisations to get real, practical support and ideas for running their early years business. Visitors have the chance to try and buy from suppliers and

attend seminars and practical workshops led by key figures in the early years sector For more information visit www.nurseryworldshow.com.

Computers In Early Years ASUS have explored the potential for the effective use of the Eee family range of netbook and desktop computers within the primary and infant school environment. Young pupils were more at ease with using the Eee Top PC’s touch-screen than a traditional mouse, and this proved highly motivating., much to Dulwich Village Infants’ and Hobbs Hill Primary’s delight. The Eee Top PC’s touch-screen also offered one unexpected advantage, as Hobbs Hill Year 6 pupil Laurie, age 6, points out: “Less arguing about the mouse when working in pairs!” Both schools were taken aback by the extremely positive reactions of their pupils to the ASUS computers and Dulwich Village was particularly smitten with the Eee Top PC. Graham King, ICT Coordinator for Hobbs Hill Primary said “Without a doubt, they are the way forward. I think they offer a reliable, cheap and effective way of enabling all children to have access to ICT, both at school and at home.” For more information visit www.asus.co.uk 67 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

Early Years Education

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Early Years Education

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Learning & development

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learning & development

Utterly Gorgeous, Totally Practical The Bump Company has launched a range of stunning baby clothes bouquets, a super alternative congratulations. Each handmade bouquet uses a selection of organic cotton baby clothing cleverly silk blooms to create a unique and exquisite arrangement. The new winter collection features snowy white poinsettia. Bouquets are also available in baby pink, soft blue or natural colours. Prices start from just £26.95 with free delivery to all UK destinations. To view the full range visit our website...

www.wondawedge.co.uk At just £14.95 the WondaWedge is wonderful value. Designed by physiotherapists to prevent and alleviate back pain, it offers supreme comfort and lumber support, making it ideal for pregnant mothers-to-be – as well as the rest of the family. The softly-sueded vinyl finish gives the hard-wearing, waterproof mat a luxurious finish but it’s the inflatable triangular pillow that is the real winner. Using a pump (or your lungs) the WondaWedge can be filled to optimum capacity for your own, exact, personal comfort and adapts for different situations such as sitting, reclining or lying down – making it ideal for breast-feeding and nursing. Post-pregnancy the WondaWedge has other uses…………. The WondaWedge is also perfect for family days out – or simply lounging about and the back support that also enhances posture will be appreciated by young and old alike.

www.thebumpcompany.co.uk

Singing Hands adopt a unique approach of combining songs, rhymes and stories to teach babies, toddlers and children how to sign. Our child-centred method of using music alongside signing helps provide a strong framework for teaching children new concepts such as feelings, numbers, animals, transport and colours. Our lively and varied repertoire of songs allow children to rehearse age-appropriate language as each song is loaded with developmentally appropriate sounds, words and phrases. The addition of signs to these songs promotes children’s thinking and memory skills, but most importantly, it makes them inclusive and lots of fun! Singing Hands use Makaton, a language programme which combines signs, symbols and speech simultaneously to encourage communication development. We have appeared in Cbeebies ‘Tikkabilla’ as well as the 5 nursery rhyme episodes of the awardwinning Cbeebies ‘Something Special’ with Mr Tumble. Visit our website for more information Happy signing!

www.singinghands.co.uk

......................................................................................................................................... Help for an easier labour Getting ready for your new arrival is one of the most exciting things and helps you to feel prepared and in control. Getting ready for the birth and Labour is also just as important. We offer a reliable service where you can hire your Tens machine for ONLY £19.95 including: * 6 WEEKS HIRE, 2 WEEKS FREE EXTENSION IF NEEDED. * DELIVERED TO YOU AT 37 WEEKS * FREE 1ST CLASS DELIVERY SERVICE TO YOUR DOOR * FREE RETURNS SERVICE, ALL PACKAGING PROVIDED.

For more information call 01322 288526 / 07507 799727

www.tensmachinehire.vpweb.co.uk

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At First Glimpse we provide all types of pregnancy ultrasound scanning, including 3d/4d and nuchal translucency scans. Scan prices start from £50 and all scans are sonographers. Gift vouchers are available should you wish to treat a friend or relative to a scan in one of our luxurious clinics. For more information including a gallery or call 01978 359005

Designer Styles not Prices For all your baby needs, prams, pushchairs, premature, organic and designer clothing and shoes. We have beautiful Christening and occasion wear as well as shawls, educational toys, cribs, travel cots, high chairs and gifts. We have every thing you need from maternity to 4 years of age. Our ranges are Marie Chantal, Sarah Louise, Peter Rabbit, Pex and Little Green Radicals.

Tel – 0191 5236161 Mob – 0773 7689396 Tunstall Village Road, New Silksworth, Sunderland, Tyne & Wear, SR3 2BB 78 www.flyingstartmagazine.co.uk

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Simply Nights

and babies. Susan has run her own nursery, has been a night nanny for many years and has worked with and helped many families over the last eight years and has participated in two documentaries and one four week series for ITV. Being a parent herself she knows only to well the problems that can arise the PRE ADVICE INCLUDES: Preparing Bottles ( Sterilising ) Hygiene - Bathing Breast / Bottle ( Feeding ) Expressing Sleeping Role of the Maternity Nurse / Night Nanny

POST ADVICE INCLUDES: Growth Spurts Routines: Weaning, Breast, Bottle & Solids Multiple Births

Best Brands to buy

www.simplynights.com info@simplynights.com 0845 5006507 / 07812 114978

Simplynights was founded by Susie Whytock in 2008 with the aim of providing parenting courses and a maternity consultancy for parents before, during and after child birth. The parenting courses have been designed to cover a broad spectrum of activities to provide knowlege of areas that can either seem straight forward or daunting to the new parent. The pre and post workshops will be based in Central London and Hertfordshire, further information on application.

The UK's leading new baby gifts company and pioneer of exquisite baby clothes bouquets

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足 a beautiful and more lasting alternative to fresh baby flowers.

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Bespoke blinds, curtains and accessories for childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rooms t

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Hand embroidered and appliquĂŠ fabrics All fully black out lined Adorable accessories including cushions, quilts and nappy stackers View all the collections online and order over the phone J ust four weeks for delivery ! ! !

C all us on 0207 2283042 or e-mail info@thenurserycompany.com www.thenurserycompany.com

The N ursery Store Ltd, 34 Tyneham Road, London SW11 5XP

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!"#$%#&'(')*+%#,-#$ www.kidscurtaincompany.co.uk A well established family run web based business measure soft furnishings for children’s rooms, all hand-made in our own work rooms at the foot of the South Downs. Our extensive range includes curtains, blinds, duvet sets, headboards, toy boxes, light switch covers and lined beanbag and cushion covers.

Over the last eighteen months there has been four fatalities in the UK as a result of strangulationfrom window blind cords. The Sheriff involved in the case of the tragic death of a young girl in Scotland in February 2008 said, “Safety Precautions are already known. These precautions will be to no avail however if manufacturers, suppliers, fitters and most of all the general public are unaware of the strangulation risk posed by free hanging looped blind cords” As a family run company supplying and fitting window blinds for over 20 years, Child Safe Blinds have committed to reducing this risk by offering an easy to use service which will allow customers to purchase simple devices at low cost and does not require

Norma Findlay Child Safe Blinds

replacement of existing window blinds. We feel that it is important to make retrofit devices easily accessible so that those who have blinds including Schools, Nurseries, Hospitals and so on can install our products to reduce the risk of strangulation at low cost, without need to replace complete window blind.

Fabric Art to our range + even more products coming soon!! Our simple easy to use on-line shop has over 300 children’s designs to choose from. Take advantage of our free sampling service to see the fabric in your own home then use our on-line your choice of soft furnishings or fabrics, linings and accessories will cost. If you require any help or advice we are happy to help. Call 01323 482 628 or email info@kidscurtaincompany.co.uk

............................................ Create impressive large wall murals or simply enhance a room's décor, using our

The British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA) has been promoting blind safety in relation to looped blind cords for a number of years and the make it safe campaign has a clear and unequivocal message for those dealing with the general public, that they have an absolute responsibility to ensure child safety issues are addressed. Child safe blinds support the BBSA standards and as a company decided that it was going to do more in order to deal with the retrospective installation of safety devices. This is an issue that has been highlighted by BBSA working with government and safety organization. The main aim of child safe blinds is not for profit but to reduce the risk of strangulation of children on window blind cords. We ensure that the cost of each device is kept to a minimum by having no fancy frills packaging and giving fitting instructions on line. Visit www.chilsafe-blinds.co.uk.

Mural Kits for Children’s Bedrooms

decorations, with Walls of the Wild self adhesive stickers.

Jungle Under Water World

Here, at

Woodlands

wallsofthewild.co.uk,

large range of stunning self adhesive stickers of wildlife, water life, birds, farm animals, dinosaurs and plants, which can be used together to form a large wall mural or used individually as an attractive wall feature, in a child's room or nursery. Each self adhesive sticker can be used on any dry surface. Transform a Bedroom or Nursery in minutes - Creating a stunning kids wall mural is as easy as 1-2-3! There is no special equipment or extra glue necessary - just stick them on the wall!

www.wallsofthewild.co.uk

Teddy Bears Picnic Prehistoric Park Grand Prix Dolphins Railway Clowns Space

Visit www.friezeframe.co.uk www.friezeframe.com 0151 650 2401

Safety Solutions for free hanging window blind cords Over the past few years there have been a number of preventable accidents and fatalities involving young children, caused by free hanging window blind cords To help prevent future incidents Child Safe Blinds specialize in the supply of simple solutions,

Telephone: 0775 986 3424 Email: info@childsafe-blinds.co.uk Visit: www.childsafe-blinds.co.uk

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7(8!+)$1!+91':*+/!+ Many parents may currently be considering returning to work and improving their job prospects, but naturally they may feel apprehensive about returning if they have been away for a significant period, particularly if they have dependent children. Free Childcare for Training and Learning for Work can help to alleviate some of the anxiety surrounding this by providing financial support. Free Childcare for Training and Learning for Work will pay up to £175 per child per week (£215 in London Boroughs) for Ofsted registered childcare for parents wanting to learn new skills or train for a better job. Parents can undertake any LSC-funded course – there is no minimum or maximum length – that will help lead them into sustainable employment, and Free Childcare for Training and Learning for Work will pay the cost of the childcare directly to the childcare provider. The scheme aims to ensure that parents have total peace of mind while they learn or train, and so parents can choose the childcare that they trust and allow them to undertake a number of courses that will help them to find a job that’s just right. If you are a parent of a child, or children, aged 14 or under, are not in work but your partner works 16 hours or more per week and your household income was £20,000 or under in the previous tax year, you could benefit from Free Childcare for Training and Learning for Work.

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Little Gems Nursery in Irthlingborough, Northamptonshire recently underwent a complete transformation when it had its play area re-surfaces by Bee Safe Leisure Ltd. The old surface, which consisted of old square tiles was worn and a potential hazard. Bee Safe Leisure took up the old surface and proceeded to lay a 50mm depth of continuous wet pour safety surface. The surface consists of black EPDM rubber granules combined with a binder which is then mixed and laid onto the prepared base surface. Coloured numbers and shapes were then added to give the play area a vibrant new look, which Little Gems had requested. The new play area surface has a 4 year guarantee and took only 2 days to complete. The children were delighted and commented: “It feels like sponge bob” - “I love the numbers because I like counting” - “It’s good because it’s got numbers and shapes” For further information call Bee Safe Leisure Ltd on 01536 511981, Fax: 01536 412248, email: beesafeleisure@aol.com or visit www.beesafeleisure.co.uk.

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To find out more information, call us on 0800 121 8989 or visit www.direct.gov.uk/freechildc areforlearning

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MiniMinder – the great little locker The MiniMinder is the answer for safe keeping and re-charging of phones, PDAs, and iPods etc. The MiniMinder provides accessible, secure space to keep small devices, and offers a charging option so that the equipment is always ready for work. The design of the MiniMinder allows the configuration of from 5 to 40 mini lockers in one unit, and the robust construction of the locker provides a significant theft deterrent and allows users to store their belongings with confidence. The Charging Option: The MiniMinder has been specifically designed for re-charging small appliances; each compartment is fitted with a 3-pin socket to allow use of the appliance’s own charger to be used in a secure storage environment. This way the appliance can be re-charged while locked away and is ready for use when removed from the locker – great convenience! Contact: Total Locker Service: 01284 749211 W: http://total-lockerservice.co.uk

scoop Best Activity in the UK in the What’s on 4 School Kids Awards. With La Jolie Ronde French and Spanish classes the emphasis is on “fun” and lessons are designed to encourage a positive approach to language learning. Children learn in small classes run by carefully selected and trained teachers and, from the very first lesson, will be imitating a good accent. Children are encouraged to speak, read and write French and Spanish to a high standard through activities that are interesting, rewarding and fun! Each child will receive a special French or Spanish certificate on the completion of each programme and parents receive regular updates and reports on their child's progress plus two newsletters per year. Primary aged children are at an age when they have an extremely keen ear and are very receptive therefore more relaxed and better at imitating sounds and pronunciation. It is very important if a child is to embrace languages that any language experience becomes an enjoyable part of their life and in turn a skill for life. To find your nearest La Jolie Ronde Class please call 01949 839715 Option 2 or visit www.lajolieronde.co.uk

La Jolie Ronde has been teaching nursery and primary age children a second language for over 25 years with fantastic results. Their viewpoint has always been to develop this age group with an enthusiasm for languages aswell as encouraging them to gain a love of the language so they want to continue their studies at secondary school. This year saw La Jolie Ronde

Can you speak French or Spanish? Why not join our network of successful Licensees across the UK teaching French and/or Spanish to children aged 3-11 years. Give us a call to find out more!

The Devon Hotel with a Different Outlook....

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