HEY! Magazine South Bristol edition by Tina Veater

FREE • SOUTH BRISTOL EDITION • ISSUE 37 • JULY/AUGUST 2017

Read more at www.familymatters-uk.co.uk

The Ultimate Garden Fence Finally, the alternative to timber fencing... Safe, secure and very strong - the revolutionary COLOURFENCE is the only garden fence you will ever need! In detail: - Virtually maintenance-free - Save time and money, no treating required - Guaranteed not to rot, warp or peel for up to 25 years - Costs in line with far inferior timber systems - Variety of colours and sizes - Professionally installed by accredited Franchisees

Safe, secure and very, very strong - with a Colourfence you really can put an end to your fencing problems. Tried, tested and trusted across the UK, Colourfence is guaranteed to last. Unlike wooden fences, once installed you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to worry about costly, time consuming maintenance. You need not paint it, you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ever patch it, and it will stand firm in the worst of the weather. Your fence looks after itself so you can look after (and enjoy) your garden. Installed by highly trained specialists, once your Colourfence is up, it really stays up offer you a lifetime of hassle-free enjoyment of your garden.

www.colourfencesouthbristol.co.uk Visit our website for more information or simply call us to arrange a free no obligation site visit. Bristol South District: 0117 214 1201

Clevedon, Tickenham, Portishead, Nailsea, Backwell, Long Ashton, Pill, Failand: 01275 277211 | Shepton Mallet, Wells: 01749 321066 Weston Super Mare, Yatton, Congresbury, Cheddar, Axbridge: 01934 235591 | Temple Cloud, Blagdon: 01761 202411

Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK | 3

WELCOME Director Tina Veater 07834 542955 | tina@ignyte-uk.co.uk Editorial Team Tina Veater info@ignyte-uk.co.uk Advertising Team Zoe Jenkins Theresa Saadeh Jane Groves 01761 410141 | info@ignyte-uk.co.uk Graphic Designer Pamela Evans Published by Ignyte Media Ltd Printed by Flying Colours Ltd, Weare, Somerset Business Address: Ignyte Media Ltd, Unit G5, Second Avenue, Westfield Industrial Estate, Radstock, BA3 4BH 01761 410141 info@ignyte-uk.co.uk While every care has been taken to ensure the data contained in the publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Ignyte do not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All right reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system in any form without the prior permission of the publisher. Distribution: We deliver to 6,500 families through primary schools and other outlets in Keynsham and South Bristol. The next edition is our Back To School issue & is filling fast.

Ever year as we write the Summer issue of HEY!, we are always aware of the forthcoming changes to some of our readers. These could be moving class, starting primary school for our nursery readers and sadly losing some of our readers as their children move to secondary school. We hope you have enjoyed HEY! over the last 7 years, but do not fear, even though you will no longer get the magazine,you can still keep up to date with us on the website, www.familymatters-uk.co.uk The changes coming in September can cause apprehension for both parents and children, so it’s important to keep the lines of communications open so that your children can talk to you about their thoughts and concerns. The sun has started to shine, the holidays are upon us and this magazine is packed full of ideas and suggestions on things to do and places to go during your summer break. Don’t miss the article on ways to keep your child learning through play and exploration this summer or the piece regarding the Summer Reading Challenge – a great way for kids to have fun and keep up their reading skills at the same time. We also have an interesting article about Cyber Bullying from the NSPCC and tips on what to do if your child is being bullied. With all the technology and social media channels children are exposed to, it is well worth a read. Are you always a parent that leaves the preparation of the new school year to the last minute? We suggest you relieve yourself of the stress and plan to start early. This maybe uniforms and schools shoes, or even just getting the stationary early – every little helps beat the last minute rush. Make sure you visit the website www.familymatters-uk.co.uk to enter our competitions and while your there, why not sign up to our newsletter giving you the chance to access exclusive offers through Family Matters only. The last issue gave our subscribers a 15% discount from Mini Mooos and Berry Barn and also a 15% discount on personalised name tags from Petit Fernand All of us at HEY! hope you have a wonderful Summer break, enjoy the time with the family and the good weather.

Tina

Hey Magazine

@hey_tweeter

www.familymatters-uk.co.uk

4 | Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK

READY, STEADY, GLOW! S

eptember 9th sees the return of Glow in The Park: Longleat, with around 5,000 people due to form a river of light and colour, winding their way around the iconic Wiltshire estate. HEY! caught up with homeless charity Alabaré’s Events Manager, Rebecca and Glow Runner, Steph, to find out more about this family fun run with a difference! Rebecca said, “Last year was our first Glow in the Park: Longleat event so we were thrilled when over 3,000 neon-clad runners came along to take part. Everyone had such an incredible time; we had whole families taking part, as well as groups of friends and work colleagues. We just had to do it again this year!” For those who have not come across a Glow Run before, participants dance, jog, run or walk their way around a 6km night-time disco course. Glow Zones along the route include the Foam Zone, UV Paint Blast Zone and the groovy Time Tunnel! Runners come dressed the part, complete with florescent UV face paint and glow bangles (provided in the event pack), and add costumes, tutus, crazy wigs – whatever takes their fancy! Steph, who took part last year said, “We did the run last year; I’m bringing a bigger group of girl-friends and their kids this time. My glow pack contained a sponsorship form and so we are trying hard to raise the little bit more for the charity, after all, I’d hate to be homeless.” Alabaré help thousands of homeless people each year who would otherwise be living on the streets or in crisis. Rebecca explains, “We have homes across the South West and Wales, helping people who are often hidden from view, struggling to survive. Our teams have over 25 years’ experience helping people overcome the trauma of losing their home, and rebuilding their skills and confidence and helping them onto successful independent lives again. We have homes for young mums and their babies, women

escaping domestic violence, Armed Forces Veterans, young people living care to name but a few. We also have training centres, and support residents to find employment, training or volunteering opportunities.” “But we need help; we rely on the generosity of the public. Events like Glow in the Park:Longleat are so important to us. We are encouraging runners to ask their friends and family to sponsor them. We have teamed up with Longleat and Bishopstrow House Hotel & Spa in Warminster to offer some fantastic prizes to everyone who raises over £50 in sponsorship for us. Anyone raising over £300 can bag themselves and friend a Spa Day with a two course lunch – what an amazing day they will have!” Steph sums up by saying, “It’s a double whammy – we get the fun of the event and then if we do well with our fundraising, Alabaré will be rewarding us with a day out at the spa!" Why not make the most of your day and book their Run & Play package. You and your children will get to enter the park earlier, enjoy all that Longleat has to offer, get fuelled up at Tropical Storm café and then get ready to run (terms and conditions apply). To avoid disappointment, get your tickets now at www. glowinthepark.co.uk

Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK | 5

CYBER BULLYING By Sharon Copsey, NSPCC head of service for the South West NSPCC TIPS FOR CHILDREN WHO ARE BEING BULLIED INCLUDE: • Tell someone you trust – it could help you report the cyber-bullying and give you more confidence to deal with the situation • Don’t reply to any nasty messages you receive. Keep the messages that you’ve been sent so that you can show someone • Don’t share, comment, or like any bullying posts. Sharing or commenting could make it worse. • Remember you can call Childline any time for free on 0800 1111

AND IF THE CHILD IS BEING A BULLY:

o-one can deny the online world is an excellent resource for children and young people. It can be used for learning, playing games and connecting with friends. But along with the undoubted benefits of the internet, come dangers that can pose a risk to a child at any time. Children no longer just have access to the internet through a desktop computer at home, they have mobile phones, laptops and tablets. It means when bullying and abuse happens online, it can feel like there’s no escape for the child. It can happen wherever they are, at any time of the day. And as fast as parents can find solutions, the internet changes and presents more problems. A recent survey by the NSPCC and O2 found that four in five children feel that social media companies aren’t doing enough to protect them from pornography, self-harm, bullying, and hatred on their sites. The findings are revealed in the latest Net Aware guide, the UK’s only parents’ guide to 39 of the most popular social media sites, apps, and games used by young people. The guide asks parents and children to review the most popular sites, apps and games that children are using on a number of factors, including seeing inappropriate content, ignoring age restrictions and communicating with strangers. It also offers advice on how to set parental controls on different devices. They can be used to filter and block content, restrict information that can be shared, set limits on time spent online and at what time of day, and set different profiles for different family members. Here are some tips from the NSPCC about how to discuss internet safety with children and young people: • Sit down as a family and discuss boundaries, and what’s appropriate and what’s not • Write a list together of the sites, apps and games your child likes. You can talk about what they might see on the sites using the list as a reference • Talk about anything they, or their friends, have seen online that made them feel uncomfortable

• The first step is realising that you’ve been involved in bullying. We all make mistakes and it doesn’t make you a bad person • Tell someone you trust who may be able to offer you some advice about what to do • Go back and delete any upsetting or nasty posts, tweets or comments • Talk to others involved and encourage them to stop the bullying. It only takes one person to make a big change • Say sorry to the person who was bullied. This can mean a lot • The important thing is to learn from it and change the way you act in the future There’s more information available online at www.net-aware. org.uk or www.internetmatters.org.uk, or by calling the NSPCC’s online safety helpline on 0808 800 5002.

• Make sure they know how to block someone, where reporting functions are and how to keep information private • Talk to them about being ‘share aware’. Would they share their phone number in person? Explain that online behaviour should mirror behaviour in real life • Try to explain that talking to strangers isn’t always bad, but they should be careful about what they share and know that sometimes people aren’t who they say they are • Does your child know what ‘personal information’ is? Talk to them about sharing their email address, full name, phone number, address and school name – and why it’s important There’s a lot to discuss so it’s easier to have conversations little and often, rather than trying to cover it all at once. As children get older, how they use the internet will also change. It’s important for parents to keep talking to them. Having the right information will keep parents and other adults feeling confident and in control.

Sat 5th & Sun 6th August 2016 - Gates open at 10:30am The South Glos Showground, Westerleigh, BS37 8QZ

2 Full Days of Fantastic Family Fun!

Book Tickets Now and Save ££££££££££’s! Attractions include: shooting, archery, beer festival, music festival, cycling show, ﬁshing competition with cash prize, main arena activities, classic car show, craft market, local sports and activities, health and wellbeing stalls, a fairground and plenty of retail therapy!

For ticket prices and information visit www.southglosshow.co.uk or call 01454 222959

Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK | 7

SUMMER READING CHALLENGE THIS YEAR THEME

hildren's reading can 'dip' during the long summer holidays. The annual Summer Reading Challenge helps get three quarters of a million children into libraries each year to keep up their reading skills and confidence. The Summer Reading Challenge encourages children aged 4 to 11 to read six books during the long summer holiday. There is a different theme each year. Children can read whatever they like - fact books, joke books, picture books, audio books - just as long as they are borrowed from the library. Children receive special rewards each time they finish a book and there's a certificate for everyone who completes the Challenge. The Summer Reading Challenge is open to all primary school aged children and is designed for all reading abilities. Schools work with local libraries and give out information to encourage children to take part, and most libraries run Summer Reading Challenge linked early years activity for pre-schoolers.

The theme for the 2017 Summer Reading Challenge is Animal Agents, illustrated by the UK's best-selling children's illustrator Tony Ross. From solving the case of the graffiti writing to the strange case of a missing lunch, children will join in the fun with the Animal Agents by reading along. As children read library books on the Summer Reading Challenge, they will receive a host of stickers, some with mysterious smells. By collecting these clues in their detective folder, young readers will help the Animal Agents find out what's really been going on behind the scenes! Most libraries will start the Challenge on Saturday 15 July 2017. There is not an official end date for the Challenge. Each library authority will set their own finish date. Please check with your local library to find out when the Challenge will finish in your area. The RNIB National Library Service makes a selection of Summer Reading Challenge book collection titles available in accessible formats (Braille, Audio and Giant Print) for children who are visually impaired, or have visually impaired parents/carers. This material can also help children with learning disabilities and dyslexia.

GET INVOLVED

Head to your local library during the summer holidays and enroll. It's completely free and anybody can take part. If you're a parent or carer join us on our Facebook page for all the latest news. Children can chat, get reading recommendations and enter competitions on our Summer Reading Challenge website.

8 | Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK

DON’T LOSE YOUR CHILDREN! K

eeping track of children at a crowded venue is a roller coaster ride and the bigger the crowds, the more loopy you’re bound to get. A parent’s biggest fear? Losing a little one in the melee. You’ll be able to breathe easy and enjoy the day if you set up family guidelines and what-if plans in advance of your trip. The age and maturity of your children will influence the amount of freedom you give them. Here are a few of her tips for keeping the family together in the bustle of crowds. Dress in bright colours: Neon green. Notice-me yellow. Fluorescent blue that screams, “I’m here!” Dress your kids to stand out from the crowd, instead of in typical character tees or sports jerseys. And hey, Mum and Dad: Not a bad idea to wear bright colours too. Make a game of it: It’s hard for younger kids to stay with their parents when you’re someplace fabulous and there is so much to see. Telling them to ‘hold hands’ and ‘stay near’ is boring, so try

turning it into a game and challenge your child to only be three giant steps away from you at all times. Or, if you have more than one child, empower one with the task of doing a head count every 15 minutes. Coach kids on an action plan: Discuss what to do with your child if he or she does happen to get lost in the crowd. This should include telling them to stay where they are — and never to go back to the car park to wait at the car. Instead, encourage them to “freeze and yell their parents’ names or if that doesn’t work, coach them to find another mum with a child. Statistically, that’s the safest stranger and is low risk. Take a family photo before you go: Rally everyone together once you’re all dressed and ready to leave home. Get the children to pose and make it fun. But the secret behind it is that, if you do lose them, you won’t get stuck trying to explain what they look like and what they’re wearing. You’ll have it all right there on your mobile.

Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK | 9

SUMMER FAMILY FUN AT THE BISHOP’S PALACE IN WELLS To bring the summer holiday to a dramatic close why not visit the Palace Gardens on August Bank Holiday Weekend (26th-28th August) when Bowlore Medieval will be taking up residence! The medieval troupe will be delighting and amazing visitors with their daring archery and sword-displays. In between shows, they will also be offering visitors the chance to learn some basic archery and swordfighting skills! On Bank Holiday Monday (28th August) the Palace Moat is home to the annual Moat Boat Race, where a whole host of teams from the Wells Community race home-made rafts along the Moat to compete for the honour of being named Champions of the Moat!

f the thought of the long school summer holidays is filling you with dread, look no further than The Bishop’s Palace in Wells, which has a huge range of fun-filled activities on offer this year from July through to the end of August! The first of the weekly Family Fun Fridays begins on Friday 28th July with a theme of ‘Glorious Gardens’ when families will be invited to join in the fun crafting activities in the Stable Yard Room. Other themes over the holidays include ‘Wacky Weather’, ‘Brilliant Bugs’, ‘Dastardly Dragons’ and ‘Crazy Castles’. Each Fun Friday runs from 10:30am-3:30pm and is included in standard admission. As these sessions are very popular, visitors will need to collect a time-slot from the Shop upon arrival. On Sunday 6th August, the South Lawn will be given over to the annual Summer Family Fun Day with games for all ages, a bouncy castle, dressing up, face painting, crafts and activities. Bring a picnic or take advantage of the new menu in The Bishop’s Table with a range of hot and cold lunch options to keep all the family happy. Taking place from 10am-4pm, Family Fun Day is included with standard admission. For classic family entertainment, head to the Palace on Friday 11th August for an evening of Outdoor Family Theatre with Boxtree Production’s beautiful new rendition of “Wind in the Willows”. With inventive staging, original songs and magical storytelling audiences are invited to enjoy this classic tale of adventure, friendship and picnics in Boxtree Production’s unique and energetic way! Just bring along a rug or low-backed seating and a picnic and you’re all set for a perfect evening.

What's On?  22/23rd July The Taunton Garrison  6th Aug Family Fun Day  7th Aug Nature Ninjas

Summer familyatfun Und e 5's r go fre e!

the bishop's Palace wells

 11th Aug The Wind in the Willows  26-28th Aug Bowlore Medieval Weekend  Family Fun Friday every week  The Dragon's Lair Play Area Open Daily

Find out more: 01749 988 111 www.bishopspalace.org.uk

Come on down to the Palace this Summer Holiday for fantastic family fun from Sword Fighting to Fun Fridays and Nature Ninjas! The children's trail and our new Dragon's Lair are ready and waiting for you to explore. All alongside 14 acres of gorgeous gardens and a childfriendly cafe with new kids menu. Children under 5 go FREE!

10 | Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK

GET READY FOR SCHOOL W

GET THE SCHOOL SUPPLIES AND UNIFORM IN ORDER

It’s much less stressful to get back into school mode if we do it gradually, instead of suddenly realising “Oh no, the children go back to school this week and I cannot find their lunch-boxes and I am not sure what happened to their homework which is due to be handed in on the first day of term”. Even if you’re itching to finally get the children out of the house, a little preparation a week or two before school starts will start your family off on the right foot.

WORK ON HOMEWORK - LIKE PROJECTS FOR THE REST OF THE SUMMER

hen the lazy days of summer are coming to a close, it’s time to start preparing your child for a more scholarly mindset. Here are a few tips to get them out of lazy mode and ease the transition for both of you.

START ADJUSTING THE SLEEP SCHEDULE

The most basic thing is to have your children - and yourself, if necessary - go to sleep and get up a little earlier every day. So, at least a week before summer holiday ends, start setting the alarm clocks. Begin with a wake up time that is about an hour earlier than usual.

One good thing about shopping for uniforms and school supplies, though, is you can bring your children with you and use it as a reminder that school is approaching—and maybe even get them excited about it. Who doesn’t like brand new sharpened pencils? Even picking out a new backpack (if one is needed) can be exciting.

Many schools have reading lists and book reports due on the first day of school. Working on those towards the end of summer can help them transition into school mode. While you might not necessarily want to assign “homework” during summer and kill the last few days of joy, there are plenty of fun ways to get children into a more productive learning mindset - even if they’re just fun video games.

17 JUNE 2017–7 JANUARY 2018 bristolmuseums.org.uk

face to face with a Jurassic beast Tickets – pay what you think the exhibition is worth to you

Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK | 11

DEBUNKING COMMON BEDWETTING MYTHS Any psychological or behavioural problem should be managed independently of the bedwetting symptoms. It's best to talk to your doctor about this. Periods of change and stress in a child’s life can explain why they may suddenly start to wet again after even a long stretch of dryness (known as 'secondary enuresis'). Children who have late onset of start wetting again after a period of dryness should always have their bowel and bladder assessed - they may have become constipated for example.

MYTH NO 4:

here are many myths around bedwetting - what causes this common, but complex childhood condition and how it should be treated. Here are ERIC’s answers to just a few of them.

MYTH NO 1:

"Punishing children will help them to stop wetting the bed." Children and teenagers don't have any control of their wetting so punishing them for it is like telling them off for coughing or sneezing. Getting annoyed with children for wetting is very likely to harm their self-esteem and add to their feelings of shame and isolation. Rather than promising a reward or treat for a dry bed, it's more effective and positive to rewards their efforts to be dry something which they do have control over.

"There's no point treating bedwetting - children grow out of it eventually." Bedwetting can and should be treated. According to the UK's NICE guidelines on the management of bedwetting in children and young people, all children who wet the bed should be seen by a health professional from the age of five years. A recent study has shown that taking a 'watch and wait' approach and not seeking help means that children could be suffering from this condition and other bladder problems for far longer than they need to.

MYTH NO 5:

Bedwetting can and should be treated from the age of 5 years.

There’s lots of information about the reasons why children are wet at night and the various treatment options on the ERIC website: www.eric.org.uk/Pages/Category/ bedwetting and ERIC has a bladder and bowel helpline which is answered by expert advisors

A doctor or nurse at a bedwetting clinic can check children for underlying reasons for the wetting such as a urinary tract infection or constipation and get these treated if necessary. Our bedwetting flowchart explains more about the different stages of treatment.

MYTH NO 2:

"Children wet the bed because they're lazy." Bedwetting can be very tiring and stressful to deal with for everyone involved, but it's not something children do on purpose. It happens when they are asleep, so is outside of their conscious control. Living with bedwetting can be really distressing for the sufferer so some deal with their feelings by going into denial, hiding wet bedclothes and acting as if they aren't bothered. It's really important to reassure children that bedwetting isn't their fault and they're not the only ones who do it.

MYTH NO 3:

"Bedwetting is caused by stress and emotional problems." Bedwetting isn’t caused directly by psychological issues such as stress and anxiety, but dealing with it can cause emotional problems, especially low self-esteem. Bedwetting is also associated with an increased risk of behavioural problems such as ADHD.

"Taking children to the loo when they’re asleep will cure their bedwetting." "Lifting' children to the toilet when they're asleep is something which may work for a while, but it's only a way of managing their bedwetting rather than curing it. It basically helps to get a dry bed rather than a dry child as you are deciding when they should do a wee rather than them responding to their own full bladder signal.

Contact details: ERIC’s helpline is open Monday - Thursday 10am - 2pm Tel. 0845 3708008/Email: helpline@eric.org.uk (Calls to the helpline cost 9.6p per minute, plus the phone company's access charge). ERIC, The Children’s Bowel & Bladder Charity (www.eric.org. uk) is the only charity dedicated to the bowel and bladder health of all children and teenagers in the UK. ERIC has been raising awareness of bowel and bladder issues since 1988. ERIC provides expert support, information and understanding to children and teenagers and enables parents, carers and professionals to help them establish good bowel and bladder health.

12 | Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK

READY, STEADY, GET MESSY WITH THE NSPCC’S MESSATHON A

n obstacle course which challenges daring families to get as messy as possible in aid of a good cause is coming to Bristol this summer. The NSPCC’s new Messathon fundraiser will take place at Blaise Castle on Saturday, July 29 – and keen Messathletes can now sign up to take part. Children aged 4 and above will have the chance to splatter through mud, swoosh along water slides and scramble over hay bales during the exhilarating course, providing the ultimate day out for all the family. There will also be a ball pit, cargo net, wall climb and much, much more! Once mums, dads and kids finish the course, they can then make a day of it by visiting the event village and enjoy a variety of attractions on offer, including food stalls, games and entertainment. Cash raised through entry fees and sponsorship go to the NSPCC, as the children’s charity continues its fight for every childhood – no matter the obstacle. And each participant gets a free t-shirt. Anna Keir, NSPCC Community Fundraising Manager for Bristol, said: “Messathon is the perfect event for bringing families together, getting them active, working as a team and of course, the one thing that most children love to do…getting messy! “Messathletes will have a fantastic time tackling several obstacles and challenges around the course, all in aid of the NSPCC. We wish all participants good luck in their fundraising and we would like to thank them in advance for helping the charity support and protect children from abuse.” Messathon events will also be taking place in Surrey and Hertfordshire during the summer months. To sign up and register for Messathon, visit www.nspcc.org.uk/messathon. There are also volunteer opportunities at the event. For more information, email messathon@nspcc.org.uk.

DAYS OUT T

urn off the tv, lock up the PlayStation and have a great day out with the children.

The Summer holidays are nearly here and it is a great time to spend some family time together and take some time out from the hustle and bustle of the normal daily routine. Whenever school holiday time comes around, are you left asking the same question? Where can I take my children to experience a great family day out? So how can you make the most of the precious time you and your children get together? If you and your partner have arranged to take some time out of the office, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to waste it by doing chores while your children sit in front of the TV all day. Family fun, not family friction should be the order of the day. Spending time with your children is also an important aspect of childhood development and happiness.

CHILDREN UNDER 4 GO

FREE

NEW ENCOUNTERS MORE BIRDS BIGGER DISPLAYS Witness world-class flying demonstrations, relish 22 acres of woodland and wildflower meadow and over 130 birds of prey. An inspiring day out for the whole family.

Wolvershill Road, Banwell, Weston-super-Mare LOCATED NEAR ANDOVER, HAMPSHIRE, JUST OFF A303

01264 773 850 www.hawkconservancy.org @HawkConservancy

@hawkconservancy

CHARITY NO: 1092349

There are plenty of things to do with children in the local area, whether you’re feeling flush, looking for cheap days out or - even better - a free family tourist attraction. We are lucky to have many fantastic places to visit on our doorstep and the coast is only an hour away. Taking your kids on an educational day out can give them and you some of the best fun there is. Choose wisely and they won’t even realise they’re learning whilst playing. There are lots of child-friendly, interactive museums and historical venues around designed to excite and engage your family. Toddlers and young children understand the world around them by touching, so make sure you’re going to a place where you won’t have to constantly say ‘no – don’t touch. Farms and zoos are a great way to engage kids of all ages and again you can make the trip educational for them. Why not make a list of which animals you definitely want to see. Then once you get there, see who the first person is to spot their favourite animal. It’s always good to make a game out of the experience. Another good game is getting your children to do impressions of each animal. It’s important to make your children aware of what to expect from the animals. Kids have to approach animals carefully and understand animals can get upset if they’re not nice. Some animals may want to rest or to hide. Get as much information as you can before you go about the animals you are going to see.

SATURDAY 9TH SEPTEMBER West Woodlands Showground

a live music stage Lots of NEW Attractions including featuring The Wurzels

ITING THE MOST EXC NG INDOOR KARTI IN TRE CEN R-MARE WESTON-SUPE

THROUGH THE GO, AIRLOCK YOU NA INTO THE ARE TO FACE YOUR TOUGHEST . GE.. LLEN CHA

ral Craft Livestock, Ru petitions m co ne ui Eq & Horses

NEW Music Stage fe The Wurzels! aturing

4 01934 631 89

NEW Agri-Village attractions including Tractor Ted!

of Hundreds

l Exceptiona k! Food & Drin

K CALL TO BOO

ds Trade stan

..And an incredible e!! amount of Chees

FULL DETAILS & TICKETS AT FROMECHEESESHOW.CO.UK Admission from 08:30 - West Woodlands Showground Nr Frome, BA11 5ES

www.ajsKARTING.co.uk

w w w . a j s l a s e r ta g . c o . u k

A day at the seaside is the ultimate summer day out and also free. There are loads of things you can do as a family. Why not play games like “Let’s Bury Dad”, Build a line of sandcastles, then see who can squash them the fastest, Make sand angels by lying in the sand and waving your arms backwards and forwards or dig a shallow water pool for perfect splashing.” Whatever you decide to do, here is a checklist of things you may need to remember to make the day run as smoothly as possible: • If you’re headed for an outdoor attraction, don’t forget to leave your wellies, raincoats and brolly in the back of the car (just in case). You never can tell with the British weather! Or alternatively make sure you include some sunscreen, hats and sunglasses if the weather is behaving. • It’s handy to pack up a change of clothes for the kids (little accidents happen when you least expect them) and a packet of wet wipes can be a godsend! • Bring an emergency snack and drink for the kids. And possibly even yourself! • Don’t forget your road map, even the best navigators take a wrong turn sometimes! Whatever you do or wherever you go this Summer Holiday, make sure that it is fun and enjoyable for you all. This way you will have a fantastic and memorable family day.

www.choldertoncharliesfarm.com Currentl y only and unde £5 per person r 2’s go F REE!

! Join us for Animal Handling, SO MUCH TO DO - FUN FOR ALL AGES g AND Tractor Rides! Racin Pig meet our adorable new babies, with our Tree Top Trail, Area Play nture Adve our have also We well as our indoor Playbarn! Zip-Line, Treehouse & Nest Swing as

Find us online for more information, events, competitions & more!

Amesbury Road, Cholderton, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP4 0EW (01980) 629 438 info@choldertoncharliesfarm.com

DON'T LET THE KIDS GET SUMMER BRAIN! S

ummer is here and with it comes family holidays, play time and day trips, along with some well deserved R and R. The last thing most children want to think about during the summer is learning. However, learning is as important during the summer as it is during the rest of the year. This summer, keep kids’ brains sharp by enjoying some fun learning activities.

PLAN A TRIP

Get kids to help plan the family holiday or a day trip. Have the children research possible destinations or attractions. As you plan the trip, talk to them about sticking to a budget and mapping out the best route.

GO ON A WALK

Head to the park or just walk around the neighbourhood. As you walk, point out different people, places, and items in nature that you notice. You can even turn the walk into a scavenger hunt and make a list of objects for kids to search for.

Mini Flippers session

Opening times

during term time means you can bring your little ones whilst its quieter at a reduced rate

Mon-Sat 10am-8pm Sun 10am-6pm Last bounce starts one hour before close

After Dark Disco’s

Unit 9K Aldermoor Way Longwell Green Bristol BS30 7DA

Birthday Parties, FlipFit fitness classes & special events

Tel: 0117 961 2043

healthy & awesome fun for all the family . fully accessible . no age restrictions . wall to wall trampolines trampoline pyramid . foam pit with two Olympic trampolines . practice your flips dedicated kid’s arena & smaller foam pit . under 5’s can bring a FREE adult with them Free adult Mon - Fri in term time only . refuel in our cafe!

HELP IN THE COMMUNITY

Use the summer as a chance to get kids involved in community service activities. Pick up litter at the park, visit a nursing home, or sign up to help at an animal shelter.

STUDY THE STARS

Since the weather is warmer and kids donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to get up early for school, summer is also the perfect time to stay up late and look at the sky. Grab a map of the constellations and see how many kids can find or try to catch a glimpse of a shooting star as it streaks across the sky.

VISIT A MUSEUM OR FACTORY

Use the summer as a chance to check out local museums. Many towns have museums with free or inexpensive admission fees.

PLANT AND MAINTAIN A GARDEN

If you live somewhere with a garden, consider giving kids a small area to plant and maintain a garden. Kids can plant fruits, vegetables, or just pretty flowers. Older kids can research the best plants for your area and draw out a plan for the garden.

COMPLETE A READING CHALLENGE

Challenge kids to read a variety of books this summer by completing a summer reading challenge. Kids can try to read at least one book every week during summer holidays. Check out your local library for this years challenge

KEEP A DIARY

At the end of every day, encourage kids to write down their adventures. Keeping a journal a great way to help kids improve their writing skills.

FARM

GUS, The baby giraffe

Visit me this summer at

www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk 01275 852606

PUZZLES Colour me i n !

World Horse Welfare

Glenda Spooner Farm A fun family day out this Summer!

Meet the Horses, Summer Trail, Fun Activities and much more! Open Wednesday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sunday, all year round Bistro open from 10am - 4pm Farm open from 11am - 4pm

FREE ENTRY! World Horse Welfare Glenda Spooner Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre Brincil Hill, Kingsdon, TA11 7LA t: +44 (0) 1935 841442

Wordsearch H

Find your way through the maze

Can you find these words? Aeroplane Lilo Barefoot Mosquito Beach Parasol Boat Passport Camera Sand Coach Souvenirs Delays Suitcase Flip Flops Sunbed Frisbee Sun Burn Holiday Sun Cream Hotel Sun Glasses Ice Cream Swimming Pool Jet Ski Towel

HEY! competitions WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO WOOKEY HOLE! Deep in the heart of the Mendip Hills you will find Wookey Hole, the UK’s largest cave system. For centuries people have been marvelling at these astounding caves and their natural beauty. NEW for 2017 is Chamber 20. Recently blasted tunnels now give you access to this amazing chamber, which opens up previously unseen caverns and formations. Visiting Wookey Hole Caves also includes over 20 fantastic attractions in the one ticket price! With access to Circus Shows, Kids Play Areas, Mirror Maze, Penny Arcade and much much more, Wookey Hole is a great day out, whatever the weather! Explore The Unexplored and visit Wookey Hole today!

For your chance to win a ticket for your family (up to 4 admissions) just answer this question: Who turned the Wookey Witch to stone?

WIN A FAMILY TICKET FOR 4 TO CREALY! Voted 'Family attraction of the year' Crealy Great Adventure Park is the Southwest's No.1 family day out. Complete with wild rides, masses of indoor play areas, live shows, and the friendliest animals. And for those rainy days we have over 75,000 sq. ft of indoor play to explore, including the Buddy Bear's Kingdom and the new exciting play frames. Ticket to be used by the 31st October.

To win, simply answer this question: What is Crealys accommodation area called?

WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO BRISTOL AQUARIUM! Dive into the ocean and discover the wonders of the deep in our colourful aquarium, right in the heart of Bristol. Explore more than 40 naturally-themed displays and spot the thousands of amazing aquatic creatures, including tropical sharks, rays, seahorses, puffer fish, piranhas, and so many more. Open daily and children under three go free Its fintastic, whatever the weather! www.bristolaquarium.co.uk

For your chance to win a ticket for your family (up to 4 admissions) just answer this question: How long is the largest shark at Bristol Aquarium?

FIVE TREASURE TRAILS VOUCHER CODES TO BE WON! A Treasure Trail is an imaginative way to explore towns, cities & villages across the UK with a self-guided themed walk. An easy to follow route will enable you to crack the clues whilst taking in some of the most fascinating sights along the way. By solving the fiendish clues on the Trail, you’ll be discovering whodunit, finding the location of the buried treasure, or completing the mission like a true secret agent.

For your chance to win a voucher code to order your Treasure Trail online, just answer this question: How many trails do Treasure Trails have in Somerset? HOW TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning these fantastic prizes, simply visit www.familymatters-uk.co.uk and click on the Competitions button, complete the form and enter your answers. It couldn’t be easier! Closing date for entries: 20th August 2017

WINNERS FROM THE LAST ISSUE: Poppy Clark, Daisy Watson, Daniel Field, Mae Parkins, Vanessa Sedlakova, James Manley and Martha Davies-Hayball

Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK | 21

YOUNG & WORRIED HELPING CHILDREN COPE WITH ANXIETY varied and range from lack of appetite and insomnia to overeating and a lack of energy. It really depends on the individual. Doctors classify anxiety into four general types: fears and phobias; general anxiety; separation anxiety; and social anxiety (a form of extreme shyness). Often these different types of anxiety are linked in children, for example, a child suffering from social anxiety might also fear separation from their main carer. The good news is that anxiety is the most treatable of mental health problems and early action can help prevent future stress.

TACKLE SPECIFIC WORRIES EARLY

hildren may not have bills or a mortgage to pay, but youngsters can feel just as anxious as adults. The prospect of change is a well-known trigger for the onset of anxiety, yet change is inevitable and particularly so for children. With September and a new school year just around the corner, all children have to face change. Knowing how to help children handle their worries can help avoid bigger psychological problems further down the line.

WHAT IS ANXIETY OR WORRY?

Anxiety is actually one of the most common mental health problems. According to the NHS, nearly 300,000 young people in Britain have an anxiety disorder – and many more suffer in silence. No one knows exactly why some people are more anxious than others, but it is thought that some people are genetically more prone to worry, while others clearly experience anxieties following a major trauma or upheaval in their life. Symptoms are hugely

Kingswood Gymnastics and Trampoline Club Enrolling now for courses in Gymnastics and Trampolining for children 4-12 yrs Summer Holiday Fundays Tues/Thurs/Fri 10-3pm £14 per child, just come along (bring packed lunch) Saturday Fun Club 10.30-12pm £6 per session

Birthday Parties and Pre-school sessions available, 1-1 Trampoline lessons and Rebound Therapy Call 01179476449 or visit

www.kingswoodgymnastics.co.uk

In some instances you may be able to anticipate what could potentially stress your child. Things like the start of a new school year, a new school teacher or a sporting event are clear candidates for sparking worry if your child is inclined in this way. So prepare them in advance and explain what is going to happen and why. Give plenty of acknowledge to your child that you understand they may feel uncertain – and reassure them that you are available for comfort and support. Talk to your child to try and understand the issue that worries them most, you might find that although, for example, your child seems worried about a new school year, the actual problem is that they have lost a book a friend lent them. There could be a practical solution to the cause of their worry.

DEALING WITH GENERAL ANXIETY

If your child is showing signs of anxiety, it is important that you can show them that you care and want to understand the reason why. You may need to think about whether there is something going on in the family that could be causing worry, or possibly something happening at school or with friends. It could also be possible that they are picking up on your worries. All families have times when they have to deal with a lot of stress and worry. At times like these, you or your child might need extra help and support from friends, family members or others.

Local Bab

y & Tod

dler Swimming

Get your little one water confident with our fun lessons across Bath & Wiltshire 07393 419796 www.turtletots.com www.fb.com/ttbathwilts bathandwilts@turtletots.com

22 | Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK

What’s On July 15

July 26 - August 30

July 15

July 329 - July 31

Corston Country Fair A traditional country fair, which offers something for all the family, from beer tent, bouncy castle, brass band, cakes, classic cars to chuffy the train ride, tea tent, vintage tractor and everything in between. Fair opens 2pm and closes at 5pm Entry is £1 for adults and free for children.

Kingswood Diversity Festival The festival brings free, fun-filled choices of music, dance, food wellbeing and other activities throughout the day the the Kingswood Estate to entertain people of all ages from all parts of the community. From live music to flag making, jerk chicken to massage and the kids zone to the beat of a drum, there will be so much to do. Noon – 5pm, Kingswood Estate, Old School House, Britannia Rd.

July 21 - 22

Bristol Harbour Festival One of the country’s largest free festivals is back with a bang. Over 200,000 people attend the festival each year to enjoy, quite literally, miles of entertainment along the stretch of the city’s harbourside including live music, circus performances, food markets, theatre, dance and on-the-water displays. Free all day event.

July 22 - September 3

Will you take up the challenge and become a Wildlife Ranger this summer? Every day throughout the summer holidays you can discover a world of wildlife at Slimbridge with Dusty Duck. Each wild task you take on will earn you a sticker and take you one step closer to becoming a Wildlife Ranger! Collect your FREE Wildlife Ranger log book on arrival and complete at least 4 of our exciting daily activities to get your Wildlife Ranger badge. See more at www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge

July 25

Nutty Noah: Wear Your Pants With Pride If you’re looking for something exciting to do with the kids this summer, join the king of fun for a very silly show for all the family. Audiences should come prepared to enjoy hysterical original songs, a good dose of audience participation, and positively no educational content whatsoever! Grab a seat, hold on tight and have as much fun as your kids! Komedia, Westgate Street, Bath.

Wicked Wednesdays at Kings Chase Shopping Centre Every Wednesday throughout the summer holidays, we have some amazing activities for the family to try. From Lego workshops to a petting zoo, cookie decorating to ceramic painting. From 10am – 2pm. See more at www.kingschase.co.uk Regent Street, Kingswood.

Upfest Europe’s largest street art and graffiti festival showcasing a host of artistic talent from across the globe. Returning to the streets of Bedminster for a ninth year, the festival attracts tens of thousands of visitors offering free entertainment for all the family as more than 300 artists live paint over the three days, painting super-sized street murals, shop shutters, boards and small, almost hidden works. As well as the live painting, visitors can enjoy affordable art sales, children’s areas, kids graffiti workshops, music stages and live entertainment on the Saturday and Sunday and on the Monday, a special children programme offers activities and workshops so the kids can get involved throughout the day. Free event, Bedminster, Bristol, Bristol.

July 29 - 30

Vintage Transport Festival at Avon Valley Railway A special weekend celebrating our rich road, rail and river transport heritage. Organised in conjunction with the Bristol Vintage Bus Group. 10am – 4.30pm. Avon Valley Railway, Bitton Station, Bath Rd.

August 5 - 6

South Gloucestershire Show The South Gloucestershire Show brings together the people of South Gloucestershire for a weekend of fun and entertainment. It is the largest event of its kind in the county and we’ve got a show that will delight and entertain visitors of all ages. Whatever your hobby or interest, or even if you want to try something new, you will find plenty going on at the show. Our main events include a Main Arena, Country Fair, Music Festival, MotorZone, Shooting Competition, BMX Stunt Arena, Kid Zone, 4x4 Experience and much much more. It’s a great weekend for the whole family! See www.southglosshow.co.uk for more details

August 10 - 13

Bristol International Balloon Fiesta A jam packed four days of fun for the whole family, with breakfast and balloons at dawn to the night glows on Thursday and Saturday after dusk, when the balloons glow to a soundtrack of music. Visit

Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK | 23

the fiesta on Friday, Saturday and Sunday mornings at 6am for ‘Breakfast and Balloons’ and watch the balloons take to the sky as the sun rises while enjoying a breakfast picnic. Thursday evening offers a great opportunity to take a peek at the special shaped balloons and once darkness falls visitors to the event can witness the spectacular night glow, when 30 hot air balloons tether and light up in sequence to music, like giant light bulbs. Event is free, with concessions made for parking. Ashton Court Estate Bristol BS41 9JN.

August 11

Bats at Elm Farm Join Philippa Paget on a bat walk, followed by bat detection as the bats leave the roost in the evening. Meet at Elm Farm, Burnett at 6.30pm. FREE Event.

August 25

Cowtastic Fun with Tractor Ted Join Tractor Ted at Farrington’s Farm Shop for some ‘Cowtastic’ Fun! Have fun bouncing on the giant Tractor Ted Bouncy Castle before scooping up balls in the Tractor Ted Digger Den! And this is before you go off to the Cowtastic Play Barn! Ride the 3.9m

Death-tastic slide, tread the Rope-tastic sky walks and enjoy ball cannons, tunnels, towers and so much more. With 6000 sq ft, there’s plenty of room for your little monkeys to climb, swing, slide and jump about. Full details at: www.farringtons.co.uk/farm-park Home Farm, Main Street, Farrington Gurney, Bristol, 11am - 3pm.

September 10

The Frome Agricultural & Cheese Show The Show is a must see annual event. Over 350 trade stands provide a non-stop shopping experience showcasing international as well as local fine food, cheese, crafts and other British produce. The Show also offers village green entertainment, a countryside pursuits area, a livestock village and much more. 8.30am – 6pm. The Showground, Bunns Lane, West Woodlands, Frome.

September 17

Time for Bricks Amazing lego displays, Lego robots, Children’s build competition, raffle, refreshments and much more. In aid of Time is Precious, Centurion Hotel, Midsomer Norton. 11am -4.30pm. For info or tickets, visit www.timeisprecious.org

To read more about these events or find out what else is on, visit

www.familymatters-uk.co.uk

D. ITE LIM DAY. CES TO SPA BOOK

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS JUST GOT BETTER

KEYNSHAM LEISURE CENTRE Our Summer holiday programme is perfect for keeping your kids entertained and active. In partnership with PSF Coaching, we provide a variety of sports and leisure activities, whilst giving you peace of mind that your children are in safe hands. It’s the perfect place for children to try a new sport, make new friends and have a lot of fun. Activities include: Intensive Swim Lessons for ASA Stages 1–5 Multi Sports Camps from only £16* for children aged 7–12 years

Hurry, spaces are limited and fill up fast. To book your child’s place, pop in or visit better.org.uk/keynsham *Per person, per day. Intensive Swim Courses run Monday–Friday between 24th July–1st September 2017. Camps run 24th July– 1st September, excluding 18th August). Better is a registered trademark and trading name of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise and registered society under the Co-operative & Community Benefit & Societies Act 2014 registration no. 27793R. Registered office: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London, SE18 6SX. Inland Revenue Charity no: XR43398

386689_GLL_Junior_HolidayActivities_Keynsham_PressAdvert_HeyMagazine_157x115_FV.indd 1

26/06/2017 15:59

Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK | 25

KINGSWOOD DIVERSITY FESTIVAL K

ingswood Diversity Festival 2017 is a Festival with a Difference.

The Difference is that it is a Festival for the Community to reflect what the Community wants to see and share. Kingswood is evolving and the Festival is the first annual event to celebrate the new and diverse influences living and working in Kingswood today. The Festival brings free, fun-filled choices of music, dance, food, wellbeing and other activities throughout one day at Kingswood Estate to entertain people of all ages from all parts of the Kingswood Community and beyond. From live music to flag making to Jerk chicken to massage to the Kids Zone to the beat of a drum and so much more.

The Festival is an opportunity for people to share their stories and experiences and meet new friends. You’re part of the story so it is also a chance for everyone to say what diversity means to them. Is it cultural? is it what you like to do? is it what you’d like to see? is it the chance to learn new things and be more involved together? The list goes on as diversity means something different to all of us. With the Kingswood community changing, opportunities arise to bring together diverse influences, creating something new and exciting. We want to hear what that looks like for you so we can help make it happen. We look forward to seeing you on the 15th for a fun day together. Our diversity doesn’t divide us, it unites us.

The

NEW family website in conjunction with HEY! Magazine Family Matters is the one stop destination for your family

PARENTING TIPS AND IDEAS

FAMILY PRIZ ES TO BE WON !

GUIDE TO YOUR LOCAL AREA

WIN!

www.familymatters-uk.co.uk Your chance to win Treasure Trails voucher codes, a family ticket to Crealy and a family ticket to Bristol Aquarium Simply visit www.familymatters-uk.co.uk, complete the competition entry form and you will be entered into the draw..

FIND US

Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK | 27

GOODNIGHT SMARTPHONE

owering down before bed for a good night’s rest. Checking email or flipping through channels instead of sleeping? Playing video games or browsing social media in bed? If you want to catch some quality ZZZs, you should put down that smartphone. The National Sleep Foundation reports nearly 90 percent of adults sleep with at least one electronic device in their bedroom. However, staring at a screen after 9 p.m. can zap your body of energy, turning you into a zombie the next day. To get a good night’s rest, consider shutting off all electronics before climbing into bed.

HOW ELECTRONICS AFFECT YOUR SLEEP Your body functions on a 24-hour internal clock. This clock is influenced by your physical environment and daily schedule. Using electronic devices around bedtime can throw off your body clock and negatively affect your quality of sleep.

Light and darkness affect your body clock. Staring at the blue glow of electronic devices – computers, tablets, televisions, gaming systems and/or smartphones – before bedtime can trick your body into thinking it’s still daytime. The artificial light sends messages to the brain to wake up and activates the body. This, in turn, can reset your body clock, delaying your normal sleep cycle. Studies show that staring at bright screens within four hours of bedtime reduces melatonin, a hormone that makes you naturally tired when it’s time to sleep. This can cause difficulty when trying to fall asleep, poor quality of sleep or sleep disorders, such as insomnia. In the long run, problems sleeping at night can impact you during the day. Lack of proper sleep can lead to impaired focus at work, trouble remembering, fatigue, stress and even weight gain.

GET OFF THE GRID

It is important to get 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. To get a better night’s sleep, experts recommend: • Spending at least 30 minutes technology-free before you climb into bed. • Reading a book or magazine in bed instead of using an electronic device. • Making the bedroom a technology-free zone (i.e., no smartphones, tablets, laptops, TV, etc.). • Using your bed for sleep only – this habit will create a connection in your mind between your bed and sleep. • Putting caps over electrical outlets in the bedroom to discourage plugging in electronics to recharge. If your smartphone is your alarm clock, set your phone to sleep mode (do not disturb function) so all calls and texts will be silenced unless it’s an emergency. Be sure to put your phone face down on the nightstand so incoming messages don’t wake you up. Power down tonight and don’t let your technology keep you from a good night’s rest.

NIGHT TIME STIMULANTS TO AVOID

While using electronic devices is one night time distraction, here are some other common things to avoid to get a good night’s rest: • Animals Do not let your pets snuggle with you at night as they typically function on a different cycle than humans. • Alcohol While it initially makes you drowsy, alcohol leaving the bloodstream wakes the body, interrupting your sleep cycle. • Vitamins and supplements Like alcohol, taking a vitamin or supplement too close to bedtime can wake you up later – even if they knock you out initially. • Caffeine and sugar Drinking coffee, soda or other sugary beverages should be avoided within four hours of bedtime, otherwise you may be too wired to sleep.

28 | Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK

News and Reviews LATEST SCHOOL NEWS

EVENTS

DIARY DATES

YOUR SUCCESSES

NEVER SUCH INNOCENCE ART AND POETRY COMPETITION We were delighted to hear that Calvin Metcalfe in Year 5 had won a prize in the Never Such Innocence art and poetry competition. The competition was open to children aged from 9-16 from the UK and beyond. Calvin was invited to receive his award at the historic Guards Chapel, Wellington Barracks in London, watched proudly by his mum and gran as well as his teacher Mr Hillier. I understand they all had an amazing day - well done Calvin!

CASTLE SCHOOL VISITS THE ZOO This week Edinburgh and Pembroke Classes from Castle School went on their educational visit to Bristol Zoo, the children had a great time and loved seeing all the animals. The children were really well behaved and a real credit to the school. The school would like to thank all the parents who helped out; your help was really appreciated.

SALTFORD WIN MODESHIFT STARS SILVER AWARD In May, Saltford School received the fantastic news that Modeshift have authorised Silver accreditation to the school. Salford are not only the first school in B&NES, but also the joint first school in the West of England to achieve this award. Modeshift STARS is the national schools awards scheme that has been established to recognise schools that have demonstrated excellence in supporting cycling, walking and other forms of sustainable travel. The scheme encourages schools across the country to join in a major effort to increase levels of sustainable and active travel in order to improve the health and well-being of children and young people. This is an outstanding achievement and I would like to thank Mrs Brook who has co-ordinated the Travel to School activities that have helped us achieve this award and everyone who has taken part.

Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK | 29

SALTFORD PRIMARY YEAR 5 CAMP

BATH SPA STUDENTS VISIT SALTFORD

The Year 5’s set off for Cheddar on their Camp with the first stop being the Seaquarium in Weston Super Mare. The children were given a guided tour before exploring the displays, which they really enjoyed. This was followed by lunch on the seafront and a play on the beach. They were then off to Brean Down for their first taste of the great outdoors walking over the headland to the old fort. The children were determined and enthusiastic walkers, which was lovely. After an enjoyable first evening at the hostel, energy was regained with a cooked breakfast before heading into Cheddar village to begin the ascent to the top of the gorge. Starting out near the Lion’sHead rock formation, they clambered up the path. Once again, the children were exemplary in their enthusiasm and behaviour on the walk. The children then returned to the hostel, where lots of children choose to spend even more time outside, playing with the sports equipment. After a thorough tidy up on Thursday morning, the children made their way out of the hostel for the last time and on to the coach bound for Wookey Hole. In the caves, the children enjoyed an exhilarating experience in the ‘4D’ cinema and then explored some of the attractions on offer. They then made their way back on the coach for the journey home, a little tired, but no worse for wear. Thank you’s were said to Mr Baker for organising this Camp, and to Mr Boyle, Mr Styles, Mrs Parfrey, Mrs Godwin and Miss Evans for accompanying the children.

Saltford School really values links with local Teacher Training Institutions and on Wednesday18th May they welcomed 17 Teach First PGCE Bath Spa Teachers and their tutor, Wendy Hanrahan, from Bath Spa University. They were interested to find out more about Art and the Arts in a broad and balanced curriculum and appreciate that this is something Saltford School thinks is important in the school. Mrs. Hayden and Mrs.Spincer led a workshop for the students, which included looking at the way they plan for Art on its own and across the curriculum, as well as some of the work we have recently been doing in this area as Saltford School seeks to renew it’s Arts Mark Gold Award. Thank you to Mr. Boyle and the children from Class AB for letting the students visit their sketching lesson and talking to the visitors about their art work.

Why not let us know what your school has been doing? If you are a Teacher or member of a PTA, then send us over any articles with your News and Reviews. Julie@ignyte-uk.co.uk

30 | Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK

SALTFORD YEAR 6 CAMP Year 6 set off on their camp on Monday morning to the Forest of Dean. Arriving at an Activity Centre before lunch they chose two activities they wanted to do from Abseiling, Caving, Climbing, Archery and High Ropes. After lunch they changed activity and then set off for the Wye Valley Youth Hostel. Gloucester Cathedral was the destination for Tuesday morning and in the afternoon they went skiing and tubing at the Gloucester Ski Centre. On Wednesday the Year 6 were joined by Mrs Hathaway and Mr Mason on the river for a day of canoeing and kayaking.

Well done to all the children who showed their resilience and had an enjoyable day. On Thursday they went on a long walk through the Wye Valley and enjoyed a game of rounders after lunch. They also participated in nature art and drama activities. Friday was the last day and the children enjoyed a day at the railway.

WHITCHURCH SCHOOL ROUND-UP SCHOOL NURSING SERVICE

YEAR 6 RESIDENTIAL CAMP

Over the last few weeks, the nursing service has joined us on three occasions with three classes taking part in workshops. Year 3 took part in a medicine safety session, Year 1 a tooth-brushing workshop and Reception enjoyed a hand hygiene session. Mrs Lawrie was impressed by their knowledge, well done Reception class! Thank you to the nursing service for supporting the development of our children’s P.S.H.E (personal, social, health and economic education) skills.

Children in Year 6 went to Croft Farm Residential Centre last week. They thoroughly enjoyed the activites on offer even though the weather was very wet!

MR HORNSBY’S FOOTBALL CLUB

Whitchurch children from Year 4 went on an enterprise trip to Cabot circus shopping centre. They took a tour and saw the control room with almost 400 cameras feeding into the 20 TV screens. Down in the basement, they saw the Cabot Circus recycling centre and where all the supplies are unloaded from lorries. Children learnt about skills such as leadership, sharing ideas, imagination and problem solving. They designed a new ‘Animal Life’ attraction and did a fantastic job presenting their ideas bravely back to 8 judges!

Well done to the school team for winning their final game of the season 4-2 against Broomhill Primary School. The fast and ‘furious’ game was a fantastic end to the season, and equalling the school’s league record of Wins: 3 Draws: 2 Losses: 3. Great stuff!

WHITCHURCH VISIT CABOTS CIRCUS

CASTLE PRIMARY PARLIAMENT

SALTFORD PRIMARY SCHOOL OPEN DAY

Castle School Council went to represent the school at the annual Primary Parliament, giving one of just three keynote presentations. Mrs Greenland and Mrs Richards said that all the children were a real credit to the school and hope they are all as proud of themselves as the school are of them too. Some of the children were able to stay for the whole day and took part in workshops and another presentation.

On Wednesday 27th September, Saltford Primary School will be holding an Open Day for prospective parents. The school has fantastic facilities and has recently received at £25,000 boost for the outdoor learning areas in the Early Years Reception classes. As well as guided tours there will be an exciting Pre-School afternoon play session from 1.30pm - 2.30pm for children who are starting school in September 2018. If you would like more information or to book a tour or a place for the play afternoon, please contact the school office on 01225 872185.

WE SPECIALISE IN TURNING YOUR HOUSE INTO A HOME

CARPET | VINYL | LAMINATE | KARNDEAN

FITTING | DELIVERY SERVICE | COLLECTION AVAILABLE

CARPET BARN E TH We understand flooring is the centre piece of your home and it’s important to have the right choice, quality and style available. The Carpet Barn offers a comprehensive and professional fitting service. Our fitters are carefully vetted and have many years of experience.

Unit 1a, Old Coach House, Bath Rd, Longwell Green, Bristol BS30 6DL

0117 9477721

www.thecarpetbarn.co.uk Check out our refurbishment later this year

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

OPENING TIMES: Monday to Friday 9 - 5.30pm • Saturday 9-5pm • Sunday 10-4pm.

FREE EVENT

FROM 10AM - 2PM

26TH JULY

DECORATION STATION

2ND AUGUST

TIGERLILY FACE PAINTING

9TH AUGUST

LEGO WORKSHOP

16TH AUGUST

CERAMIC PAINTING

23RD AUGUST

ANIMAL MANIA PETTING ZOO

30TH AUGUST

COOKIE DECORATIONS