HEY! Magazine Mid Somerset edition by Tina Veater

FREE • MID SOMERSET EDITION • ISSUE 37 • JULY 2015

INSIDE Days out this Summer Helping with childhood worries What’s On Early Years Education HEYMAG.CO.UK

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ALL ER M SUM NG! LOWEBSITES IL SEE DETA FOR

Telephone: 01963 440804

www.haynesmotormuseum.com

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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 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 Ltd, Second Floor, 2 High Street, Midsomer Norton, Radstock, BA3 2LE 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 7500 families through primary schools and other outlets in the Wells, Shepton Mallet, Glastonbury and Street areas. The next edition is in September & is filling fast.

At last the summer has arrived and I am sure you are all looking forward to your days in the sun and fun on the beach. I am very aware that arranging to keep your young ones busy during the summer break is a challenge, especially if you are working too. This edition of the magazine supplies you with lots of great ideas and clubs to help you to achieve the objective of fun for the children and safe and secure childcare for you. There is no better feeling than watching the children run and play in the grass or in open spaces as the sun shines. These memorable days do not need to be expensive and out days out section highlights how you can plan to make the entire day, much more enjoyable for all. The summer is a great time for children to learn new skills, these can include swimming, fishing, gardening and social skills. Sharing the bucket and spade or even the swings in the park is a great start to working together and team work. Don’t miss our competitions page, where you can win a host of fabulous prizes from tickets to products. Simply visit our website to enter. September is a time for change for both children and families, with new starters in reception and also younger children joining nurseries and childcare. Check out our early years pages for some ideas of the provisions available in your area for the younger people in your household. These changes can sometimes be tough for our small people, they worry about change and often struggle to see through these worries. Year six children will be thinking about the move to secondary school and this can be a huge worry for them too. Our editorial team have investigated some of these anxieties and offer some help and guidance in our ‘Young and worried’ page. It would be great to hear from you if there are specific interests or topics that you would like the HEY! Team to write about. Please email me directly with your suggestions and thoughts at tina@ignyte-uk.co.uk. Have a fabulous summer break with your family.

Tina Hey Magazine

@hey_tweeter

www.heymag.co.uk

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EARLY YEARS EDUCATION WHAT’S THE BEST CHOICE FOR YOUR CHILD?

very child is different: what proves a godsend for one may be a nightmare for another. At such a tender age, how do you know what will suit your child? THE OPTIONS Pre-school isn’t compulsory and for good reason. Not all parents want their child to attend a pre-school and it will not suit every child. Your child’s early years may be spent entirely at home, alternatively, you may decide that time away from home suits you both. Possibilities include a child-minder, nursery, kindergarten, crèche, pre-school, play-group and toddler groups. Formal childcare providers will follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which sets standards for the learning, development and care of children from birth to 5 years old. All schools and Ofsted-registered early years providers must follow the EYFS, including childminders, preschools, nurseries and school reception classes. THE COST Fees for nurseries vary hugely, they can range anywhere from £40 per day, to almost double that! The cost is often charged at an hourly rate and tends to include meals, but each nursery is different so it’s best to phone around and ask for their specific fee break-downs before making any decisions. Remember too that all 3 and 4-year-olds are entitled to 570 hours per year of free early education starting from the term after their third birthday- January, April or September. This is usually offered as 15 hours per week during terms time (38 weeks of the year.) However, to allow the entitlement to be used more flexibly, some childcare providers in some areas are able to stretch the 570 hours over more weeks of the year. Some employers subsidise day nursery fees, so check to see if you can get help. Many parents can also get extra help with the costs of approved or registered childcare through tax credits. For more information contact HM Revenue & Customs at www.hmrc.gov.uk, or phone their helpline on 0845 300 3900.

Wells, Somerset BA5 2TJ Contact Christine 01749 677011

steppingstonesplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk

Outstanding Ofsted Report Fully trained and experienced staff Open Monday to Friday, 9am-3pm (Term Time Only) Sessions available for 2-5 year olds Registered Charity No. 1022365. Playgroup Leader Christine Buckley

POINTS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING EARLY YEARS CARE: • Social skills and interaction with others. For some children, a pre-school is the perfect place for this, while others may get plenty of opportunities for mixing and socialising with friends and at local parent/toddler groups and classes. • Your child’s confidence with others. You may feel your child is independent enough to cope with a structured early years setting, that they would benefit from time away from you with other children, or that they are getting all they need at home. • Check out different settings - playgroups, nurseries, preschools, parents and tots. Even if you are intent on keeping your child at home with you, by exploring your options you know you are making an informed decision. • Consider different educational approaches. There are lots of different schools of thought about how best to educate young children with Steiner and Montessori pre-schools focussing on child-led learning through play. Forest schools have a strong outdoors focus. • Factor in cost and practicalities such as timing and travel. If these pose a problem, speak to your health visitor or early years group, they may know ways to combat such difficulties. • Don’t be put off by what others say, or by your own distant memories of childcare! See for yourself. Visit and look at the other children; can you envisage your child being happy there?

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INTERNATIONAL LEFT HANDERS DAY O

n 13th August 1992 International Left-Handers Day was launched. An annual event when left-handers everywhere can celebrate their sinistrality and increase public awareness of the advantages and disadvantages of being left-handed. This event now has an official Left-Handers Day website, visited by thousands of people, and is celebrated worldwide in a variety of ways, including left-v-right sports matches, left-handed tea parties and nationwide “Lefty Zones” where left-handers are celebrated, whilst right-handers are encouraged to try out everyday lefthanded objects to see just how awkward it can feel using the wrong equipment! These events have contributed more than anything else to the general awareness of the difficulties and frustrations left-handers experience in everyday life, and have successfully led to improved product design and greater consideration of left handers needs. All year round, left handed people fit in with home and office layouts designed for right-handers’ comfort – put up with doors, cookers, sinks, computer mice, keyboards and desks and many times every day they contort themselves using back-to-front tools

and gadgets in our efforts to make them work! But NOT on Left Handers Day! Because on this special day, it is their chance to GET THEIR OWN BACK on right-handed friends, colleagues and family by designating personal space as a LEFTY ZONE where everything must be done left-handed! The idea of Left-Handers Day is everyone to celebrate in fun, practical ways, making right handed family members, friends and colleagues realise how “dextrous” left- handers have to be. Getting right-handers to do everything left-handed for the day is a great way to make the point! SOME FAMOUS LEFTIES! Barack Obama Prince Charles Michelangelo Diego Armando Maradona Albert Einstein

Space and freedom to learn millfieldschool.com/everyfield

ng er ni ob or ct M O n 3 pe y O rda tu

Story Writer Mini Chef Runner

Experience Millfield Pre-Prep with a Personal Visit call Hannah Cox on 01458 837524

Tom Cruise Justin Bieber Jennifer Lawrence Brad Pitt Marilyn Monroe Maybe being left handed is the secret to success!

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3-7 August, 10am - 3pm daily. Various locations in Glastonbury. £5pp per workshop, 8 - 18 years. Drop-in Cafe £3.50pp, per day. Workshops inc. Circus Skills, Animation, Cookery and many more Flash Mob Night Walk

Kayaking : Canoeing : Caving Climbing : Archery : Bushcraft

@offthestreetsUK

29th July, 5th, 12th & 19th Aug 10am - 12pm / 2 - 4pm each day Bring the whole family for 2 hours of fun in Carymoor’s woods and wider nature reserve! Den-building, mud kitchen, natural crafts, trails, minibeast hunting, games and more! £12 per family per session (up to 4 people including at least 1 adult), plus £3 for each additional participant. Inc a drink and snack served in the woods.

Family Drop-in Cafe with crafts for under 8s and lunchtime performances

Stay tuned to the website, Facebook and twitter for full details and booking: www.childrensworldcharity.org 01458 833693 Off The Streets

Wild Woodland Wednesdays!

Spaces are limited, so book yours now!

www.somersetadventures.co.uk

Email education@carymoor.org.uk or phone 01963 351350

07981 826919

Charity no. 282743

www.carymoor.org.uk

You could have been reading your advert instead of this!

B S S re CC ex pec aks Sh pe ial Pr or rie ist ov t nc tr id ed ain er st ed, aff

Advertise for as little as £45.00 Call 01761 410141 or email info@ignyte-uk.co.uk Fully inclusive Holiday Activity Days (school -age children from 4 - 14 years)

MILLFIELD

HOLIDAY COURSES SUMMER COURSES:

Monday to Friday 9.00am to 3.00pm throughout school holidays. £18 per child per session (wraparound care available 8.00am to 6.00pm at additional cost). Payment required at time of booking. Ofsted registered

Summer programme includes Water Play Day Den building Kick Boxing Circus skills Sports activities Cooking Drumming workshop Arts and Crafts Trampolining Talent show For details of our programme or to book contact: Brookside Academy, Brooks Road, Street BA16 0PR Tel: 01458 443340 option 6, email: ofﬁce@brookside.somerset.sch.uk www.brooksideprimaryschool.com

Making holidays fun!

COURSES HELD AT MILLFIELD SCHOOL, STREET, OR MILLFIELD PREP SCHOOL, GLASTONBURY

T 01458 444 320 E INFO@MILLFIELDENTERPRISES.COM W WWW.MILLFIELDENTERPRISES.COM SEARCH ‘MILLFIELD ENTERPRISES’

@MILLFIELDENTS

HEYMAG.CO.UK | 7

SUMMER ACTIVITIES THE BENEFITS OF BEING BUSY

here’s no doubt about it – the prospect of school breaking up for six-weeks in summer can for many parents and carers feel daunting. Whether you work full time, part time or are home based, you need a plan to get through this stretch. Keeping kids busy at a summer camp or with activity days could be just the solution, if you (and the kids) are to keep your sanity. Here’s why.

NEW EXPERIENCES

Whether it’s a tennis school camp, craft orientated days at a local community centre or a mixed sporting menu at your local sports centre, enrolling your child for activities is sure to bring them into contact with new people, new ideas and, possibly, new activities. Or, if your child has a passion for a specific thing, the summer is the ideal opportunity to develop that interest.

HEALTH AND SOCIAL BENEFITS

Active days where your child gets out of the house have a number of clear health benefits, especially if they involve children engaging in sporting activities. Even if the focus of the day is more sedentary

and perhaps orientated towards crafts, your child will have the benefit of socialising with other kids, which will inevitably involve some racing around! If your child is unsure about attending a camp or activity day, perhaps see if a friend could attend too.

BEING ACTIVE IS FUN

Activity days and camps may have quite busy schedules but they are free from the pressures that kids might sometimes associate with school. There’s unlikely to be any homework and the focus will likely be play, albeit in a structured way, which, at the same time, involves learning or creating something!

COST-EFFICIENT AND SAFE

Many camps cost the same as more formal childcare options and sometimes cost even less. Call up the organisation in question and ask if a discount applies if booking in a certain number of days, or more than one child. Reputable activity centres and camps will be Ofsted registered meaning you can go to work, or grab a quiet moment at home, feeling reassured that your child is receiving high quality, and enjoyable care.

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HEADING BACK TO WORK W

hether you’ve only taken a few months off work or a few years, getting back into the swing of things is never easy when you have been basically living a parallel life with children. Despite the parallels between toddler tantrums and office politics, the cold reality of trying to do both a job and the full time role of being a mum is not an easy one to face so it is best to be prepared. The first thing you need to do when considering getting back into the workplace is to weigh up what you want to do, how you want to work and whether you are ready to go back. It is best to plunge back in with 99% certainty rather than 40%. Women’s motivations for working often change after they have had children and you may find that you want to reassess the kind of work you do and how it fits around children. Look at the skills you have and think carefully about how you can adapt them to other types of work with more flexible working possibilities. If you have been out of the workplace for some time, you might want to consider retraining or brushing up on your skills. Local colleges often offer courses for, for instance, updating office skills. Once you have decided what area you want to work in, you need to consider childcare options. It is important to have these in place for when you go back so that you are not rushing around sorting this out in your first weeks at work. Most forms of childcare allow a week or so for your child to become accustomed to being away from you. Looking for a job in the current economic circumstances will be difficult, but it will be doubly so if you do not feel confident about what you have to offer. Lack of confidence is one of the major hurdles for women returning to the workplace. The important thing is to know your strengths [and weaknesses]. Draw up a list of all your skills. Include in this any voluntary work you have done, for example, for the parent teachers’ association.

When it comes to applying for jobs, make sure you always appear professional at all times. Don’t just send round a general CV. Adapt it for the particular job you are applying for. Ensure the covering letter summarises your experience and sells you as the perfect candidate. Allow yourself plenty of time to get to the interview and think of questions you want to ask. Go through the type of questions you think your potential employer will ask, based on the job specification, and do your research on the company. Even if you decide you don’t want to attend the interview or some emergency crops up at the last minute, let the employer know. You may be able to reschedule. Look smart and professional. If you want to work flexibly, ask generally about the company’s flexible working policy, but don’t make it the first question you ask. Don’t, however, waste employers’ time by suggesting hours which are just not feasible for the job. Most employers stipulate the hours that need to be worked to do the job. You need to make a good business case for why flexibility will work for both the organisation and you and remember if you ask for flexibility from your employer, they will expect some flexibility in return. Good luck!

Suzie’s diary Dear Diary! Staring at my calendar earlier today, I felt a surge of panic course through my entire body. It is just a few weeks before school breaks for the summer holiday. I desperately need a plan! I’ve been thinking on and off about how I’ll manage my business over the summer break and whether I should even consider trying to work around the kids, or should I try and palm them off to friends and relatives? The trouble is that even with the baking biz doing fairly well, it’s not worth paying childcare for three kids. Yes, I get some help with Poppy’s nursery fees. Many thanks to the public purse for that, but, er, more help needed! For the last school holiday I decided to do all my baking and paper work in the evenings. Not a good move. By the time the kids are all in bed, settled and I’ve sorted out the trail of destruction they leave in their wake (even after tidying), it’s gone 9pm. Working to gone midnight took me to the edge…. It’s a dark place. I’m going to have to get Scarlett to help keep the little ones entertained while I just get on with things during the day. My parents and the in-laws may be around but it has to be said that the novelty of having grandkids wore off quite some time ago… And this once plentiful supply of babysitters is getting stretched with both my brother and Andy’s sister now having young children too. There are only so many days that baby boomers want to devote to nurturing the future. They’ve got a pension to spend now, and a free bus pass to make use of! So it’s with apprehension that I see the calendar pulling me into chaos of mixing business with kids. The silver lining is that we’ll spend half of August away. A cottage in Shropshire (one week) and camping at the Gower (another week). Plenty of opportunity to relax then!

Suzie xx

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HEY! competitions WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO CHOLDERTON CHARLIE’S FARM Cholderton Charlie’s Farm Park is located on the Wiltshire and Hampshire border, near the historic Stonehenge. We offer a great value, fun-filled family day out for all ages and interests: from our indoor three-storey playbarn, outdoor play areas, café and gift shop; as well as feeding, cuddling and petting baby animals and our daily tractor rides. During peak times, we offer a large variety of hands-on farm activities, from walking a goat to cuddling a fluffy baby chick! Tractor rides around the farm are also a big hit, as well as our twice daily Pig Races!

What is the name of the Café and Bar at the farm?

WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO THE FROME CHEESE SHOW

WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO NOAHS ARK ZOO FARM

There is so much to do at The Frome Cheese Show, you will have a non stop day of entertainment. The Show held on the 12th Sept has a friendly, family atmosphere and is a fun day out with much to see, do and learn. With over 350 trade stands, village green entertainment, countryside pursuits area and main ring, kitchen theatre with celebrity chef Paul Rankin, livestock village, funfair, craft and shopping hall and much much more. You can see more about the show at www.fromecheeseshow.co.uk

Spend a day with the Big Zoo Animals at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm home to Rhinos, Tigers, Lions and Giraffes and now Elephants. Enjoy 12 exciting adventure play areas, an indoor Animal Village and covered Animal Show Pens. The Zoo Farm offer over 25,000 square feet of heated areas and hotspots around the 100 acre park to make your visit enjoyable whatever the weather. Noah’s Ark offers incredible up-close experiences with amazing animals, including seeing the lions and tigers being fed during the ‘Big Cat Talk’ and watching Birds of Prey fly in the daily display. Enjoy a jumbo experience with ‘Elephant Eden’ - Europe’s largest elephant habitat. For a fantastic family day out, walk beside natures giants at Noah’s Ark this season!

What is the name of Honda’s official and the UK’s number one motorcycle display team that will be at The Frome Cheese Show this year?

What event is happen on the 12th Sept at Noahs Ark Zoo Farm?

WIN 30 PACKS OF MARDLES STICKERS FOR YOUR CLASS

WIN A JUNIOR GAME CREATOR WORKSHOP WORTH OVER £300

Mardles are the stickers that come to life! Stick your Mardles onto any flat surface, download the free ‘AliveLab’ app on a smart phone or tablet and watch them come to life. Mardles have realistic movement and sound and are fun for kids of all ages. We’ve teamed up with the U.K team behind Mardles to offer an amazing prize. 1 lucky Hey reader will get to spoil their entire class at school!

Junior Game Creators is more than just about code. Each workshop is a fun group learning experience. Everyone works towards a common goal, in teams, on challenges that will stretch their creativity, team work and communication skills. Workshops are limited to 8 junior coders and staffed by qualified,DBS checked facilitators. We come to you in our mobile classrooms and provide all the technology. All we need is somewhere to park and access to power.

Where were Mardles created? A) U.K B) U.S.A C) China

Which application does Junior Game Creators use to teach programming?

WINNERS Charlie Bamford Midsomer Norton Grace Hockey Oakhill Bradley Hockey Writhlington Jacob Buckland Kingswood Joe Fussell Midsomer Norton Holly Hobbs Trowbridge Matt Hart - Keynsham Jessie Woodford Peasedown St John Emily Brookbank Doulting Ben Jackson - Bowlish Oliver Perry - Frome Summer Wilks Kingswood Joe Porter - Frome Daisy Pruden Wells

HOW TO ENTER To be in with a chance of winning these fantastic prizes, simply visit www.heymag.co.uk and click on the Competitions button, complete the form and enter your answers. It couldn’t be easier! Closing date for entries: August 12th 2015

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1. PLAN YOUR DAY… ALLOWING BAGS OF TIME The greatest thing you can take – whether sightseeing or getting from A to B – is extra time. Young children love to explore and don’t care for the time pressures of travel, so you’re more likely to all retain your cool if you factor the faffing, toilet stops and, dare we say it, tantrums into your timeframe. 2. BOOK/RESEARCH AHEAD If you’re going to a special event, place or restaurant, it pays to book ahead, or check opening hours if this is more relevant. If you arrive at your destination to find you can’t get a seat, need to wait an hour for lunch, the museum is closed on Mondays, or whatever, then tempers will soon flare. And there’s nothing more demoralising than having to hit the road again with tired, hungry children melting down in the backseat. So, where you can, do your homework before you leave home… 3. BAG OF ESSENTIALS For going anywhere, even on a very short trip, keep a small bag containing all your essential ‘bits’ - a couple of wipes, tissues, some kitchen towel, sun cream, anti-septic cream, plasters and any prescription medicines/inhalers etc.

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TEN TIPS FOR THE PERFECT FAMILY DAY TRIP

IT’S SUMMER! School is out and already the kids are bored. Perhaps your ‘big’ holiday is already done and dusted, or is some way off. Either way, it’s time to think about a family day trip. And whether your trip is to a local beauty spot for a picnic or somewhere further afield, be sure to prepare thoroughly for the perfect day out.

Saturday 12th September 2015 Show opens 8.30am – 6pm

West Woodlands Showground, Near Frome BA11 5ES

F R EE B UfrSomES e From

A great day out for all the family which offers more than just cheese! So much to see and do. All day attractions such as Celebrity Chef, Freestyle Motor Bike Stunt Show, Shopping Avenues and Countryside Area.

Adult: Advance £11, On the day £14 Senior Citizen: Advance £9, On the day £12 Family Ticket: (2 Adults & 3 Children) Advance £24, On the day £32 Child 5 - 16yrs: Advance £3, On the day £5 Child Under 5’s FREE

Ticket Hotline, Cheese & Grain 01373 455420 www.fromecheeseshow.co.uk

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CHARITY OPEN DAY Sat 18th July 10am-4pm

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Registered Charity: 1121920

Find out about Discovery Courses for young people

Keynes Farm, Staunton Lane, Whitchurch BS14 0QL T. 01275 832425 E. info@horseworld.org.uk www.horseworld.org.uk

ULTIMATE INDOOR KARTING EXPERIENCE Have a day out at the South West’s number one indoor karting centre Amazing driving experience Unique multi-tiered track All abilities and ages Variety of different events including “Arrive and Drive” and Children’s Karting

Wolvershill Road, Banwell, Weston-super-Mare

OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri 13:00 until late Saturday 10:00 until late Sunday 10:00 until late

10 mins off the M5, 5 mins from WestonSuper-Mare town centre. Ample free parking.

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4. INVOLVE THE KIDS When you’re planning your trip, encourage your children to find out about where you’re going. Let everyone choose one activity, if that is viable, so it’s truly a family trip that involves everyone. 5. DOCUMENT YOUR TRIP Hang on to bits and pieces from the day as keepsakes: tickets, brochures, a couple of postcards, etc. Your children can then make create a way to remember their day when they get home – and share their experience at Show & Tell at school or nursery. 6. LET THE KIDS TAKE SOME PHOTOS If you have a suitable device or camera, or the kids have their own device, encourage them to take some pictures. It’s another way to get the kids more fully involved with the day, and allows them to record the trip from their perspective, which will be very different from yours! 7. GET ALL YOUR DUCKS (AND DUCKLINGS) IN A ROW If you’re going on holiday with another family, make sure you discuss the basics before you go - for example what everyone wants to do, whether you’ll all stick together each day or whether you’ll spend time doing things apart, what you’ll do for meals… 8. CONSIDER NEEDS OF TODDLERS AND VERY YOUNG CHILDREN For young children, even if they are generally good walkers, it’s often a good idea to still take a buggy. It’s always useful for carrying your bags and is good if they need a rest or get tired in a restaurant.

Summer Holiday Family Activities at The Bishop’s Palace! This Summer Holiday, The Bishop’s Palace will be holding a huge range of different events designed to keep children and families entertained throughout the holidays. Every Wednesday the Palace will host Family Activity Days which are held in the Stable Yard Activity Room. These themed events are based on a different subject each week and will encourage little ones to explore the natural environment and they’ll even be able to take their craft projects home with them. The weekly themes include: Wells & Water, Dastardly Dragons, Palace Games, Medieval Life, Colour & Life and Animals at Wells and the activities are included with a standard admission ticket – children under 5 are free. Each week there will also be a different trail to take budding explorers through the Gardens and Palace to discover more about the weekly theme! The Community Garden will be holding activity days where little ones can get down in the dirt and closer to nature, with themes from Wildlife to Herbs, and Colours in the Garden. 24th July, 14th, 21st August. On 22nd August there will be a ‘Stop Motion Animation’ Family Workshop with the chance to help create a stunning animated film inspired by the gardens and wildlife here at The Bishop’s Palace – the film will them be available to watch and download online after the workshop. Finally on 8th August there is a Story Telling Day with accomplished storysmith Michael Loader who will entrance and delight children with his tall tales. The Bishop’s Table café also has a great selection of Children’s Menus at £4 if you want to stay on for lunch and make a day of it!

NTI / David Levenson / Arnhel de Serra / John Millar. Reg Charity No. 205846.

adventures

Discovery den at Lacock Abbey

20 July to 28 August, Mon-Fri, 11am-1pm & 2-4pm The discovery den is back; drop in for daily workshops and activities. You could plant a seed, make wild art or fly a kite.

Wild Wednesdays at Avebury

Every Wednesday between 29 July to 26 August, 11am-4pm Join the Avebury rangers for fun in the farmyard. You could make a bird box, cook on a fire, sit in a tractor or make a bug hotel.

Forest Fridays at Stourhead

Every Friday in August, 11am-3pm You can build a den, create wild art, make a mud pie and become nature detectives. Plus sessions with bushcraft expert Greg Power and the Stourhead tree climbing team. Normal admission applies. Please check property webpages as events may vary. National Trust members and under 5s go free.

Visit nationaltrust.org.uk/southwest

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9. TAKE SOME ACTIVITY STUFF Whether it’s to cover a long wait in a café for food, or you’re trapped in a delayed train, you never know when you might need to suddenly occupy the kids. So take paper pads and crayons. A must-have for any urban trip! 10. TAKE HEALTHY SNACKS AND WATER Similarly, you need to be prepared for any delays to normal mealtimes, so take plenty of healthy (ish) snacks like breadsticks, carrot stocks, grapes, raisins etc. Filling up on sweets and chocolate could mean kids are more likely to get travel sick, or get a sugar rush at an inopportune time.

Cheddar Crazy Golf Family Fun for all ages

Advertise for as little as £22.50 01761 410141 or email

18 hole course in attractive setting Open daily from 11am Only £3.50 per player 01934 741112 7 Queens Row The Cliffs, Cheddar

info@ignyte-uk.co.uk © National Trust Images. Registered Charity Number 205846.

info@cheddarcrazygolf.co.uk

Dunster Castle and Gardens

summer

This summer become a knight, learn Victiorian manners, defend the Castle, spot a bat and tick off some of your 50 Things to do before you're 11 ¾. 01643 821314 nationaltrust.org.uk/dunster-castle

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Craft Corner

Visit our website at www.heymag.co.uk for full instructions on how to make these crafts

DIY flip flop

Eye puppets

Sunglasses photo frame

Sponge ball water bomb

Crab pots

Toilet roll butterfly

Paper fans

HEYMAG.CO.UK | 17

Summer holidays

What’s On July 29

Family Garden Trail at Hestercombe Every day during the summer holidays. Follow the garden trails to discover the stories of Hestercombe old & new. Plus outdoor games and creative crafts in the café. During garden opening hours. FREE for members / FREE with admission.

Dastardly Dragons at Bishops Palace 11am – 3pm. Activities will focus on Dragons and we’ll be making shadow puppets, sock puppets and a fire-breathing dragon in the Stable Yard Room. There will also be a trail throughout the gardens and Palace on a Dragon theme!

July 21 - August 31

August 5

Krazee Karting at Haynes Motor Museum Children and big kids alike are in for a special treat at Haynes with updated karts it’s KRAZEE KARTING. Open every day from 10:30am until 5:30pm. Helmets and race suits are provided. The karts feature the latest safety remote control, and each race is marshalled by their expert team. The track layout provides a challenge for karters but is simple to understand and easy to navigate for those new to karting. Please note - to use the karts there is a minimum height requirement of 1.5 metres. For further information please email info@krazee-karting.co.uk or bookings call 01278 400547.

Palace games at Bishops Palace 11am-3pm. At the Palace in this Family Activity Day and try your hand at making a kite, some juggling balls or some Heraldry swords and shields! When you’ve finished, get outside to follow our fantastic children’s trail based on a theme of ‘Games’.

July 22 Family Activity Wells and Water at Bishops Palace. 11am-3pm Come along to our Stable Yard Activity Room to entertain all the family with wonderful crafts on a watery theme such as: Cork boats, Origami boats and Water-marble pictures.

July 25 Artisan Market at Browne’s Garden Centre 10am to 3pm with craft workshops in the afternoon, food, craft gifts. If you are interested in taking a stall (£15) please send an email to vanessa@vlancaster.co.uk. Places are limited.

July 27 - August 24 Magic Monday at Hestercombe Mondays: 27 July – 24 August. Enjoy fun family activities in the gardens: sports, crafts, quizzes, arts, trails and storytelling. FREE for members / FREE with admission.

July 28 - August 25 Knight School at Dunster Castle 10 dates between 28 July and 25 August 2015. Learn about what it was like to be a knight. Create your own shield and try jousting on our wooden hobby horses. Suitable for ages 5 to 8 Pre-booking essential. Guardians must supervise their child during Knight School. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunster-castle.

August 6 - 9 Bristol Balloon Fiesta The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is now in its 37th year and is Europe’s largest ballooning event. It’s a spectacular, free, four days of fun for the whole family. Ashton court, Bristol.

August 13 Capture the Castle with 1610 at Dunster Castle You will have to plan an attack, build bridges, bombard the Castle, maybe even dam their water supply and overrun the enemy all whilst avoiding capture. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunster-castle.

August 20 Butterfly Trail at Hestercombe Don’t miss the Butterfly Trail where you can learn all about butterflies and moths by following a trail around the gardens with an expert from Munching Caterpillars.

August 22 Stop Motion Animation Drop in Family Workshop at Bishops Palace Create a stunning animated film inspired by the gardens and wildlife. The film we make will be available to watch and download online after the workshops. Most suitable for over 5’s but younger children are welcome to come and have a look!

August 31 Bank Holiday BBQ at Hestercombe Enjoy freshly barbequed food and fun activities to celebrate the last bank holiday of the summer. 12 – 3pm. Adults £9.50, Children £4.50.

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   

    

Bove Moor Road • Street Somerset BA16 0DG

SASPsomerset

Somerset Activity & Sports Partnership

Get Active this Summer

Sessions for females and targeted at 19-25yrs but all ages welcome! Do you want to start being more active or improve your physical activity levels? Do you want to meet new people and try something new?

A great place to bring the family. Large enclosed garden, safe for children. Cater for birthday parties of all kinds. Good fresh food, sweet and savoury. Very friendly and welcoming environment. Milkshakes to die for. A massive variety of of ice cream ﬂavours and options.

01458 897007

taylors-coffee.n.ice@hotmail.co.uk Amazing ice cream from Langage Farm!

facebook: taylors.of.street twitter: @IceTaylors instagram: icetaylors

Activities start in June 2015 BOX SESSIONS Weekly instructed class with elements of boxing and fitness Thursday 7-8pm @ Epicocity Training Studio, Manor Road Trading Estate BA11 4BN. £2 a session. First 2 sessions FREE Attend 5 out of 6 sessions – get your free water bottle BEGINNERS RUNNING GROUP Weekly session to support individuals from progressing from ‘couch to 5K’. Individual targets with social meet afterwards. Saturdays 10am, meet at Oakfield School Gates, Frome. FREE Attend 5 out of 6 sessions – get your free water bottle For more information, contact Sarah at SASP on 01823 653990 or visit www.sasp.co.uk To find other activities, look at Somerset’s Leisure & Sport finder www.zingsomerset.co.uk

HEYMAG.CO.UK | 19

YOUNG & WORRIED

HELPING CHILDREN COPE WITH ANXIETY C

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 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.

“it is thought that some people are genetically more prone to worry” TACKLE SPECIFIC WORRIES EARLY 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. COPING WITH TRAUMA A trauma could be anything from involvement in a car accident to a response to a family bereavement or parental divorce. In the case of an obvious trauma like a serious accident, your child will most likely be offered professional counselling, but in the case of separation or bereavement, you may need to talk to your GP to request help. Be aware too, that there are some good quality books available that aim to help children better understand what has happened to them, be it a bereavement or a serious illness. Children over the age of five can often find it helpful to talk about their worries to an understanding adult, which could be someone outside the immediate family. EXTREME AND LONGSTANDING ANXIETY If your child is so anxious that they can’t cope with ordinary dayto-day life, more specialist help could well be needed. Your GP will be able to advise you, and may suggest referral to your local Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS).

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PREPARING YOUR FAMILY’S FINANCIAL FUTURE W

hen it comes to future finance, many of us are keen to keep our heads in the sand.

already in one. ‘Automatic enrolment’ is gradually being made compulsory for all employers.

Over half of people in the UK are not saving at all for their retirement or they aren’t saving nearly enough to give them the standard of living they hope for when they retire. Similarly, fewer than half of people in the UK have a valid will.

If your work gives you access to a pension that your employer will pay into, then unless you really can’t afford to contribute or your priority is dealing with unmanageable debt, staying out is like turning down the offer of extra pay!

To put this scenario in other words, many people won’t have the lifestyle they want on retirement, and many people won’t see their assets passed onto their loved ones in accordance with their actual wishes.

Of course, if your employer will contribute to your pension regardless of whether you pay into it, then you should join the scheme whatever your financial circumstances.

Taking control of your and your family’s financial future means taking action now when it comes to your pension, and your will.

PENSIONS – THE BASICS Firstly, don’t rely on the State Pension to keep you going in retirement. The maximum basic State Pension of £115.95 (tax year 2015-16) a week is way below what many people hope to retire on. A private pension plan is basically a longterm savings plan with tax relief – your regular contributions are invested so that they grow throughout your career and then provide you with an income in retirement. Generally, you can access the money in your pension pot from the age of 55. To help people save more for their retirement, employers are gradually being required to enrol their workers into a workplace pension scheme if they are not

WILLS – THE BASICS A will sets out who will benefit from your property and possessions (your estate) after you die. Most wills are made up of cash legacies, bequests, and the residue of the estate, which is divided between the beneficiaries. You can leave fixed sums of money to relatives, friends, or charities. You can also leave specific possessions and treasured objects to whoever you want. What’s left after any debts, tax and fees have been paid is called the residue. This can be left to one person, or it can be shared out among several people (the residuary beneficiary/beneficiaries). Unless you write your own or use a preprinted will kit, a simple, straightforward will provided by a solicitor can cost anything from around £80 to hundreds of pounds, depending on your requirements. You may find that if your spouse or partner has a similar will drawn up at the same time, the cost per person may be less.

HOW TO CREATE A WILL • You do not need to have your will drawn up or witnessed by a solicitor. If you wish to make a will yourself, you can do so, although it’s very important to get the wording right and have it properly witnessed. Mistakes can render a will invalid. • Solicitors sometimes offer free willwriting services through www. willaid.org.uk. You are asked to donate to one of nine charities instead of paying solicitor’s fees. These charities include ActionAid, British Red Cross and Age UK. • You could use a will-writing company to help you draw up your will. However, the people working in these companies do not have to be regulated or qualified. If you decide to use one, make sure that the person you see is registered with the Institute of Professional Willwriters, or the Society of Will Writers. • If you use an online will-writing service, make sure that the person who is helping you is a qualified solicitor. Online will-writing can be quick, easy and convenient, but you may not get as much guidance or advice as you would if you met with a solicitor face-to-face. • Which? offers a will-writing service. You can find out more by visiting www.which.co.uk.

HEYMAG.CO.UK | 21

News and Reviews LATEST SCHOOL NEWS

EVENTS

RAINBOW FAIR FUNDRAISER AT ST CUTHBERT’S INFANTS This year our school, St Cuthbert’s Infants, decided to run our school fete with a difference to really engage the local community. Deputy Head, our teacher Mrs Cooper came up with a great plan, a Rainbow Fair. Each class took a specific colour then made and sourced things to sell to raise money for the school playground and SOS Africa. Willow grew plants for their Green stall, Our class, Elm had pink biscuits and cakes, Chestnut had fresh orange juice and orange frames, Maple had yellow sunflowers and Beech, Blue choccie treats. The event was really well attended by all of us, but also by the juniors and even pupils from The Blue School. The fete, with the support of the community, raised £1500. We were so pleased with how many businesses, artists and charities attended running their own stalls and activities. Our fete had everything from bouncy castles and face painting, dancing and songs, Great Shakes Milk Shakes, Secret World with their two owls, Avalon Prints with scenes of Somerset, Radstock Museum, Bee Keepers with specialist honey and outfits to try on, Black Dog tile company (who are working with the us next year on a mural project), to the big event: the fancy dress parade and the raffle! With top prizes of a Mulberry Handbag, tablet, three course dinner at The Swan, Dinner at the Good Earth, Wookey Hole tickets, and loads more including £50 beauty vouchers it caused quite a stir and made a fortune! Donations had come flooding in in the cake variety and the stall had nothing left from Gluten Free Somerset delights to the Wells Country Market brain balls and spicy samosas. Everyone was well fed, well entertained, even beautified on the nail and hair stalls! We had the whole school decorated with flags, bunting and rainbows courtesy of a local party business. The whole community got on board and we can’t wait to top it next year, but Mrs Philp says someone else has to go in the stocks next time! Tia Bell, Deputy Head Girl

DIARY DATES

YOUR SUCCESSES

22 | HEYMAG.CO.UK

WOW

EMAIL US YOUR WOW! PHOTOS AND DETAILS TO INFO@IGNYTE-UK.CO.UK

WHAT AN ACHIEVEMENT Owen aged 8 came 1st in the under 9’s boys fun run in Wells, well done Owen.

William aged 8 was awarded 2nd place in a dog training competition for best young handler, well done William.

Tyler aged 8 was awarded 3rd place at the mini Olympics at West Pennard Primary School, well done Tyler.

Amy-Lou aged 8 raised £163.66 for Christian Aid week for baking and selling cakes, a great achievement, well done.

Grace aged 9 has passed her exams in tap dancing and theatre craft, well done Grace.

Erin aged 7 has been awarded a merit badge at West Pennard Primary School for her hard work in all areas, well done Erin.

Abel aged 6 was awarded the Ruth’s Cup for kindness, as Abel’s teacher says he is a pleasure to teach, well done Abel, keep up the great work.

Polly Jane aged 6 has passed her ﬁrst pre-primary ballet exam, well done Polly.

Elsie Iris Cullen has achieved her stage 2 in swimming, well done Elsie.

Lily Chant aged 7, and Ben, achieved a second at the R.D.A. Regionals in dressage. Well done Lily.

Lewis Towler aged 6 has achieved his gold certiﬁcate in mathletics, well done Lewis.

Sam Hawkins aged 11 has gained his level 2 British Gymnastics award, well done Sam.

Jake Stuckey and Matthew Cappi aged 11 have achieved their black belt award at Tae Kwon Do with Jamie woodland, well done to you both.

Molly Bowyer aged 6 has achieved her British Gymnastics trampoline proﬁciency awards Stages 2 and 3, well done Molly.

Oliver Bird aged 5 has achieved stage 1 at swimming, well done Oliver.

HEYMAG.CO.UK | 23

Sam Deacon-Low aged 7 recently took part in a football tournament for Purnells Football Club, well done Sam.

Harry Branchﬂower aged 8 has taken part in a football tournament for Purnells Football Club, well done Harry.

Seb Roughan aged 9 has been awarded a certiﬁcate for best costume and for being the kindest cub at cub camp, well done Seb.

Charlotte Perrott aged 8 has achieved her level 3 in gymnastics, her level 1 award in dance, her ‘wise as an owl’ and hostess Brownie badges and also achieved the Brownie birthday winning award.

Lochlan Taylor aged 6 has achieved his 50M swimming award as well as taking part in the swimathon for Marie Curie Cancer Care at Paulton Pool, well done Lochlan.

Edward Gould aged 6 plays football for Chew Valley Football Club and has been awarded his trophies for training and playing as part of the team, well done Edward.

Harriette Roughan aged 7 has achieved her grade 4 in gymnastics, well done Harriette.

Emily Perrott aged 6 has achieved her grade 4 in gymnastics as well as her passing her ballet exam and achieving her roundabout get healthy award at Rainbows, well done.

Matthew Shorrock aged 10 has completed the ‘Color Vibe 5k’ run on Sunday 17th May in Bristol in support of his Mum. He ran the whole way in 35 minutes! He raised an awesome £400 for breast cancer campaign.

Josh Uhrmacher aged 7 has been awarded the trophy for most improved player of the U7’s at Midsomer Norton Rugby Club, well done Josh.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO APPEAR IN HEY!? EMAIL US A PICTURE OF YOURSELF, AGE, YOUR ACHIEVEMENT AND THE SCHOOL YOU ATTEND.

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