Jolly Tots Issue 20 - Winter 2012

An Interview with Biggins

A Handmade Christmas Christmas Gift Guide

WIN...

Myro the Smallest Plane in the World Goodie s Essential Parent Company DVD Guides

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And here we are again, wondering where all the time has gone and how Christmas has yet again sneakily crept up on us far too quickly - or is that just me?

So in between your impersonation of a headless chicken in the preparations leading up to Christmas, it's important to take time out to relax. What better way than to sit down and spend a little time checking out the winter issue of Jolly Tots? OK, so I may be slightly biased!

We have all sorts of treats in store for you in this issue and you may even find some ideas to help you get ready for Christmas. Our feature article looks at ways to get your little ones involved in the festive preparations. We also have a gift guide highlighting some great gift ideas from some of our advertisers. Jenny's article looks at how preparing for a new baby is similar to preparing for Christmas and with all those Christmas party invites, we have an article on what to look for in a babysitter so you can prepare a stress free night out!

It's not all about Christmas though as we know some of you may not pick up your Jolly Tots copy until the New Year. For me, the most exciting item in the magazine is centred around Myro who is a new children's character recently launched in the UK. He is a little Microlight that moves to Australia and has all sorts of adventures. There’s a fabulous set of his books up for grabs.

I could talk about Myro all day and kind of fell in love with the character when I had the honour of interviewing Christopher Biggins face to face in London recently about his new role as the narrator of Myro. OK, so maybe I fell a little in love with Biggins too! He was as lovely as he is on screen and is great at giving bear hugs too! To find out how I got on see my interview with Biggins on pages 8-9.

We have also thrown in a giveaway of Essential Parents DVD guides - well worth checking out if you are expecting; plus we have a great 2 for 1 offer with Shepreth Wildlife Park - next to our lovely ‘What Gregory Did Next’ column.

Last but certainly not least we are also launching our 'Ask Jane' column, where you can get in touch with us with your questions on raising your little ones and we will ask Jane for her opinion!

So, plenty for you to be getting stuck into. I hope you'll enjoy this edition and please do write some feedback on content that you’d like to see in the next edition!

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It’s the time of year that Gregory, like any other small child, is full of the joys of the season; brimming with Santa related excitement and bouncing off the walls with pent up anticipation of the big day.

A few days ago, we set about writing our letter to Santa. As we settled down with our pencil and pad, it became obvious that Gregory had already given his extensive Christmas list some careful thought. I took my role as scribe as he declared that he had been a very good boy (not strictly true) and followed by reeling off a list of fairly predictable items for his pile of small presents. I told him that the last thing we should ask for would be the ‘main’ gift and was poised to fill in the gap with the word ‘bike’ as we had previously discussed, but was surprised to hear quite a different response.

“I’d like a piano please,” he said enthusiastically.

I asked him if he was sure about that, given that he had already got a lovely orange plastic keyboard.

“No, no, no Mummy,” he replied shaking his head furiously, “I want a big piano, a grown up one.”

I explained that we didn’t really have the space for a piano and besides, Santa would probably already have put a nice shiny bike aside for him, but he remained adamant that the only thing that his heart desired was a piano ... and a reindeer ... to live in the garden. After a long conversation, I managed to compromise with Gregory and he chose a more realistic instrument - a trumpet (hooray!) and accepted the fact that we wouldn’t be able to provide adequate care for a reindeer.

Eventually, we diverted our attention away from the letter to Santa and started to discuss the night before Christmas when Santa would pay a visit to our home.

Gregory asked a number of questions about what would happen whilst he slept. Happy in the knowledge that Santa would soon be here, he settled down to some drawing, until he looked up at me with a slightly trembling lip. “Mummy,” he sniffed, “How will Santa be able to get my big piano down our chimney?”

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at Shepreth Wildlife Park this winter with

Visit the park any time this winter until 31st January 2013 and the cheapest person goes free. Please quote “Jolly Tots magazine� to redeem this offer.

Please note during this period the park will be closed on a Monday and Tuesday and other days at 5pm.

This offer is not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. www.sheprethwildlifepark.co.uk

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The creator of Myro, Nick Ross, is also at the interview and explains how he learnt to fly a microlight while living in Australia and from this experience Myro was born. Nick told me he has always been a big fan of Biggins so was delighted when Christopher agreed to be the narrator and said working with him has been great.

Christopher began by talking about what attracted him to take on the part of Myro. ‘It’s a fabulous series of books and the quality is sensational.

Myro gets into all sorts of scrapes like any little boy and he has to get out of them. Along the way he meets a lot of people, sometimes helpful, sometimes not. There’s a very moralistic tale to the stories that I think children will identify with. It teaches that if you work hard and get on with people you will become a better person and I think that’s all we can ask of children today’.

My Interview with

by Chrissy Brown

It’s not every day you get asked to interview someone who you have grown up watching on TV from an early age with the likes of ‘Porridge’, ‘Some Mothers do ‘Ave ‘Em’, ‘Rentaghost’ and the children’s Saturday morning show ‘On Safari!’.

If these shows don’t surface on your radar then I am definitely showing my age and perhaps he is better known to you for his career in panto and more recently ‘I’m a Celebrity, Get me out of here’ when he won the title of King of the Jungle in 2007. Yes I am talking about the one and only Christopher Biggins or as we affectionately know him ‘Biggins’. He has a career that spans many decades and many genres from sitcoms to serious stage plays, to the out and out silly.

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So when asked if I would like to interview Christopher for Jolly Tots about his exciting new role as narrator of ‘Myro, The Smallest Plane in the World’, I jumped at the chance.

Not only was I excited to meet Christopher, but the story of Myro also appealed to me.

Christopher explained how Myro is a lovely story of a little five year old Microlight called Myro who emigrates to Australia and meets all sorts of characters, including native animals such as koalas, kangaroos and other aeroplanes.

He forms relationships and has all sorts of adventures rescuing old planes and animals.

He went on to say, ‘It’s important the story is good and that you are putting over a message. Some of the video games that children are given are very violent and are not family friendly and there’s a negativity about them. That’s what has been good about doing Myro. Myro is every child; he’s gorgeous and you can aspire to him easily unlike some action heros.

Also he’s a character that everyone can get into and parents when reading Myro with their child will enjoy the stories as well and I think that’s important.’

Nick then shows me a clever and very enticing interactive app that he has developed for the ipad so that children can watch and interact with Myro’s many adventures. Christopher interjects saying how he thinks the app is a wonderful way forward as children these days are used to getting entertainment from technology. He says: ‘The Myro app will make car, train and aeroplane journeys so much more interesting for a child as there is so much interaction.

It will keep children amused for hours.’

There are also plans for Myro to be turned into a television series with several TV companies showing a lot of

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interest and if Myro takes off (pardon the pun), Nick and Christopher believe there is no reason why Myro can’t go worldwide and be translated into different languages. In fact, Nick said when he was creating Myro he chose names of characters that weren’t country specific for this reason.

When asked how much influence Christopher’s time in the Australian Jungle in 2007 had when approached to do this role, it quickly becomes apparent that ‘I’m a Celebrity, Get me Out of Here’ played a massive part in his life and had a profound impact on him as a person.

‘I was very moved, it was a life changing experience and is without doubt one of the top highlights. It stretched me as a person, it’s an extraordinary experience.’ He stated that he developed a love for Australia while doing ‘Celebrity’ and this definitely played its part in him taking on the role.

Christopher talked in depth about what a wonderful experience it was to do Celebrity and how he never thought he could win. ‘‘I was amazed at how many young people took to me. It was great to have a whole new, younger audience. It surprised me and they obviously saw something which I think tickled their fancies.’

I put it to Christopher that the public

are quite discerning and are usually good judges of people. He agreed, ‘Yes I think you’re right and I think it’s lovely that I was allowed to be myself. A lot of people don’t really know how to be themselves and they are frightened of being themselves and don’t know who they are.

They often play characters, so a comedian is often somebody else other than who he is normally so to be themselves is very difficult because if you start acting you can lose your way. Three weeks is a long time especially when you’re under pressure and have little food.’

I asked how with all his successes in the limelight, he has managed to stay so grounded and true to himself. He tells me how he just loves people and expressed that one of the reasons he loves pantomime so much is because it allows him to be surrounded by everyday, real people and he loves the interaction. He said nice people are in abundance out there and Christopher certainly loves to be surrounded by them.

As we ventured further into the interview it became clear that Christopher really is as lovely as he comes across on our screen and has an infectious sense of fun. He seems a very warm and genuine person with a big heart for people.

So will we be seeing Biggins in panto this year? I think we all know the answer to that. Oh yes we will! He will be playing Sarah the cook in ‘Dick Whittington’ at the Theatre Royal in Plymouth, also starring the one and only Basil Brush (again showing my age!)

Just a shame it’s so far away otherwise I would be very tempted to go.

I asked if what you see on ‘Celebrity’ is really how it is. ‘Absolutely, what you see is what you get. There is no taking us away in luxury limos at the end of a show. One day we all worked very hard and the food came in and we were given a crocodile leg to cook and we went up and threw it back at them. We were so angry as there was no meat on it. We did rebel!’

And an interview with ‘Biggins’ would not be complete without talking about pantomime, ‘So the big question Christopher, is there any scope for Myro the Pantomine?’ Christopher’s eyes light up and with much enthusiasm, he answers ‘Yes, absolutely as we have lots of music!’ He went onto say there’s already been Myro musicals in schools which he thinks will take off. ‘It’s a marvellous thing for schools to do.’

My final question to Christopher, ‘What would you like to be remembered for?’ Without a pause the answer came immediately, ‘That I enjoyed life, had a fun time and used every element of it to it’s fullest.’

Then came the sad moment where I had so say goodbye to a lovely lovely man with a big heart for people so I stole a big bear hug from him and was on my way.

’Myro, The Smallest Plane in the World’ was launched on 30th October 2012. See page 24 for our Myro giveaway.

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Childcare arrangements can be difficult to organise at the best of times, but how do you go about arranging a babysitter over the festive season?

The key to having an enjoyable festive season both with your children and with your friends is forward planning. Ensure that you don’t miss out on all of those party invitations by getting organised and planning your babysitter as far in advance as possible.

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It is advisable that you leave your babysitter with a checklist each time they babysit for you, to include information such as where you are going, emergency contact numbers for you and who to call if you can’t be contacted, along with your doctor’s name and address; this will provide the babysitter with the important information they may need whilst you are away. In addition to a babysitter checklist, following the few simple steps below will help to prepare your babysitter for most situations he/she might

encounter whilst babysitting your children.

Ask a new babysitter to arrive 30 minutes before you are due to go out so you can give him/her a

“It is advisable that you leave your babysitter with a checklist each time they babysit for you”

tour of the house. Go through each room and think of anything they might need there. Discuss your house rules and expectations as you go. You should show the babysitter the foods that children can and can not eat, also tell him/her rules about when and where the children can eat. It is important that you tell the babysitter,

especially if you have older children, the rules on using the computer and telephone. Show the babysitter to your children’s bedrooms where he/she can find their clothes and toys. This is a good time to discuss the bedtime routine and what should be done if there are any problems with this.

If the children need to have medicine administered, specific instructions should be left along with a thermometer. Discuss any allergies and what the babysitter should do if a reaction occurs.

I know this is a lot of information, but when you’ve covered it all you can leave the house relaxed knowing that the babysitter is well equipped to care for your child, leaving you to enjoy your evening.

by Heidi McFadyen

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Christmas is coming at: It’s not often that you have the chance to visit Father Christmas while seeing a Nativity scene featuring real farm animals!

At Sacrewell Farm and Country Centre throughout December we will have just that! Our donkeys are getting primed, our lambs are fluffing their wool and our geese are getting very fat in time for the Christmas season.

For an extra £5 per child, children visiting the Farm can hop on a bumpy tractor sleigh ride through the Farm and down to the Mill House where Father Christmas will be waiting in his grotto with a present for your child. Parents can pay an extra £1 to have a home-made mince pie, a glass of mulled wine or hot drink. Serendipity Studios will also be on hand to snap the perfect Christmas family photograph.

Elsewhere on the Farm the Three Little Ducks Gift Shop will be stocked with some fantastic stocking fillers, gifts and foods including our Christmas hampers made up on the Farm.

The Fresh Restaurant will be serving a range of winter warmers to keep you going.

Plus, do not forget that we have a heated indoor activity barn featuring our new under 3’s soft play area, an 18th Century Watermill and lots of friendly animals to meet and greet on your visit!

Father Christmas will be in his Grotto at weekends from December 1st and daily from December 15th to 23rd.

Booking a slot to visit Santa is advised. Normal Farm admission applies. Visit www.sacrewell.org.uk.

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“Ask Jane” Mother to three and owner of four nurseries, Jane is on hand to use her pearls of wisdom to answer all your questions. If you would like to ask Jane anything relating to raising your children then please get in touch by emailing editor@jollytotsmagazine.co.uk.

Disclaimer: The answers given are Jane's opinion and it's always advisable to check with the relevant authorities and the latest guidelines.

Rebecca Carpenter of Eaton Socon asks: My very active almost three year old is always asking for food. How many snacks is OK, as I don't want to over feed her?

Jane says: “Good question, to which there is no right or wrong answer. Children have small stomachs so they are naturally better suited to eating little and often.

They also go through ‘growing phases’ where their hunger can know no bounds (though I’d be suspicious of a child claiming a hunger that only a snack will cure when only minutes before vegetables were refused at tea). So yes, in principle I agree with snacks and indeed, nurseries tend to have mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks as an almost universally accepted and necessary occurrence in a child’s day. A few tips on the snack, perhaps. Too much of a sweet treat though and a child will bounce off the walls and ignore the nutritious lunch or tea lovingly prepared. Too filling a snack and a child will be unable to both bounce of the walls and eat the afore-mentioned nutritious lunch or tea!

So a snack cupboard comprising of a variety of ‘little, yet varied’ snacks, to be consumed in moderation, in my opinion, is a good thing.”

Healthy Snack Ideas

There's lots of tasty alternatives to snacks that are stuffed with sugar, salt and saturated fat. Check out our ideas for healthy and fun snacks that your little one will love. Even better, why not make snacking time a fun activity and get your child involved in the preparation of their snacks?

Cheese Make cheese more interesting to kids by cutting into fun shapes with cookie cutters or make celery boats by putting soft cheese into celery sticks topped with raisins. Celery is low in saturated fat, and very low in cholesterol, a good source of riboflavin, pantothenic acid, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, fibre, Vitamin A, B6, C and K, folate, potassium and manganese. Raisins also contain fibre, potassium, and vitamins.

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Houmous Made from pureed chickpeas, houmous is an excellent dip for kids. It has an appealing nutty flavor, is thick enough not to be messy, and contains folate, vitamin B6, and iron. Serve houmous with cut-up vitamin rich vegetables or brown pita bread for dipping.

Yogurt Low fat yogurt is an excellent source of calcium and children love it dressed up. To add taste and nutritional value, whip up a yogurt parfait with berries and granola or make a homemade fruity yogurt pop that beats sugary shop bought frozen treats any day.

If you would like Jane to answer your question, please email us at editor@jollytotsmagazine.co.uk or message us via our facebook page.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet spuds are some of the most nutritious vegetables around.

They're packed with vitamin A and are good sources of B6, C, and folate. Simply cut into thin slices and bake in the oven in a little olive oil.

These simple, delicious crisps are great alternatives to the greasy, shop bought variety and what's more you can contol the amount of added salt.

Smoothies

Your little ones will go crazy over these delicious sippable treats, and they're packed with nutrients. Use vanilla yogurt, 100 percent orange juice, and a banana as the smoothie's base, then experiment with a combination of cut-up fresh or frozen fruit. It's a great way to sneak two or three servings of fruit and fiber into your child's diet.

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Your cut out and keep guide

Choosing the right health service Self-Care Self-care is the best choice to treat very minor illnesses, ailments and injuries. A range of common illnesses and complaints, such as coughs and colds, sore throats, upset stomachs and aches and pains can be treated with a well stocked medicine cabinet and plenty of rest.

NHS Choices www.nhs.uk NHS Direct 0845 46 47 NHS Choices is a dedicated website where you can find up-to-date and expert advice on a range of illnesses and complaints, as well as find your nearest NHS services, such as GPs, dentists, pharmacists, minor injuries units and so on.

Your Local Pharmacy Your local high street pharmacy can provide confidential, expert advice and treatment for a range of common illnesses and complaints, without having to wait for a GP appointment or go to the Emergency Department. To find your local pharmacist, including details of opening hours, visit: www.nhs. uk/servicedirectories or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

My nearest pharmacy is ......................................................................... telephone: ...................................

Your GP If you have an illness or injury that won’t go away, make an appointment with your GP. They provide a range of services by appointment and when absolutely essential can make home visits.

If you need to see a GP urgently in the evenings or weekends please call your GP practice as normal for information on how to contact the GP out of hours service.

My GP is .................................................................................................. telephone: ...................................

Minor Injuries Unit or Walk-in Centre Minor Injuries Units or Walk-in Centres offer convenient access to a range of treatments for minor illnesses and injuries including: cuts and grazes, minor burns and scalds, bites and stings, strains and sprains and minor eye or ear problems.

To find your local minor injuries unit or walk-in centre, including details of opening hours, please visit: www.nhs.uk/servicedirectories or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 My nearest MIU or WIC is ...................................................................... telephone: ...................................

Emergency Department or 999 Emergency Departments and the 999 ambulance service should only be used in a critical or life-threatening situation. Dialling 999 and stating an emergency situation will result in a response vehicle being sent to your location.

Visit www.nhs.uk/servicedirectories or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 to find your nearest A&E department.

My nearest Emergency Department is ..........................................................telephone: ...........................

Hooray! It's that time of year again where your children will no doubt be hanging off your legs squealing, 'How many more days Mummy?/Is Santa nearly here Mummy?/Can I have the world in my stocking Mummy?' If this sounds like a familiar scenario, then we’ve got some ideas that’ll keep them occupied with daily activities to get the creative juices flowing and build the excitement as the big day gets nearer.

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An Activity a Day

The idea of an activity a day is great because the children get to feel they are contributing something towards the Christmas preparations on a daily basis and that you get to take advantage of their enthusiasm and have them help to get things organised!

Lucky Dip

The first thing you need to do to organise your activities is think about how you are going to present the ideas to your children. There are many creative ways you can do this, but our favourite is the Christmas Bucket. This is a simple idea that won't take long to prepare (this is your 'handmade' task!). Decorate a

bucket or a bowl in any way you wish and fill it with enough scrolls of paper to take you up to Christmas Eve. On each scroll write an activity for the day and draw or stick a visual clue for older babies and toddlers. Mark each one with the date so that you can prepare for each activity daily. Then let your children find the day's scroll each morning and let the 'handmade' times roll!

Share the Work

There's plenty for Mum to arrange over Christmas and most of us would be more than grateful for a little bit of time to relax and let someone else take over. Get your pals with children of a similar age involved and mark a few scrolls with group activities. For example, one scroll

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might read 'Make paper lanterns at Gloria's house'...just make sure that Gloria's child has a corresponding scroll on the same day! You and your friends can then alternate activities with the hostess preparing and running the session whilst the other mums take a break.

children's artwork popped onto almost anything! Do remember that when ordering from a company who will make up the final product you need to check how much notice they require to complete your order. It's a good idea to get these activities done early.

The handmade possibilities are endless; there's plenty of child centred ideas in books and on the internet and you can pick the brains of other parents.

Making Christmas decorations can be easier than it may sound.

Specialist modelling clay such as Polymer clay can be great fun to use to create vibrant Christmas tree decorations and if your

Inspiration

Here are a few of our personal favourites...

Handmade Decorations

children are already used to using Playdoh, then rolling balls to make up Santa's tummy and head should be a doddle.

Alternatively, they can cut out shapes using festive cookie cutters. Don't forget to bodge a hole through your item to thread your ribbon before baking it!

You may also like to take advantage of your period of making things at home to teach your child how to sew. Cut out pieces of felt to stuff and sew together and add a ribbon to hang it. You can get hold of large blunt needles for your child to

Handmade Gifts

The great thing about making things with baby and toddler is that Grandparents, aunts and uncles will be over the moon when they receive a gift which can incorporate a momentum of the precious child's first years on the planet.

A lovely idea is to work with the babies' and toddlers' hand and footprints so that the recipient can keep their gift forever. You can pop along to your local pottery painting studio (see our Gift Guide on page 18) and choose a plate, mug or plaque to pop your baby's mark on (or do the whole family on a big item!).

For the more creative child give them a brush and some paints and let them loose on a trinket box for Grandma or a money box for Daddy!

On a day at home, you can give your child crayons and paints and let them create a design which you can then use to produce another unique gift.

From calendars to mouse mats; you can pretty much get your

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Music For Little People is exactly that, music for little people! Come along and learn about rhythm and rhyme, or join in with the dancing and singing, its all part of the musical adventure. All sessions are run by qualified teachers and are split by developmental age from 0 to 5 years.

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Where learning’s a ball 16

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use and with some supervision, they can make large simple stitches (you can always add a few more if need be!).

A very simple idea (and great for babies too) is to take some plain cardboard, cut it into the shape of a circle, bodge a hole in the top and let them paint it in any way they wish.

With a spot of research and a small helping of creativity, you can combine a vast array of materials to create enough hanging decorations to transform your tree into a prize-winning specimen!

And don’t forget the rest of the house during your creative extravaganza! A lovely simple activity which can be adapted for all ages, is to cut out long rectangles of paper and let your child paint, stick and glitter them before you secure them into loops to make beautiful paper chains to adorn your walls.

Christmas Collages

Let your children create a masterpiece to pop on the wall annually- for Grandparents to coo over and your child to cringe over when you're still putting it up beside the tree fifteen years later. Children can create festive pictures with paint by using their fingers, cookie cutters dipped in paint, potatoes halved and cut into tree or holly shapes. Let their imaginations run wild whilst they cut out festive pictures and sprinkle glitter over their artwork (and your house!)

Baking

From fairy cakes with festive icing to baking simple biscuits in the shape of Christmas trees; baking is an activity which all

children love to do. Older babies can get involved too, helping to stir the ingredients together with a helping hand from a grown up.

You can be as creative as you like with your decorations as you can buy all manner of edible glitter and festive cake toppers.

This activity is one to keep for the final few days of your handmade extravaganza, so that your products are fresh when offered round on Christmas Day.

Make up and practice a Christmas show or the story of the nativity using puppets.

Perform it to a mini audience and video it to play annually (to your child’s growing embarrassment!)

If the thought of filling your bucket with a plethora of activities that require materials and time seems a little daunting, don't worry; we'll all be adding a few simple ones to the pot! For those 'in between' days, here's a list of effective ideas which require minimal effort but will keep the creative theme going.

We'd love to hear your 'Handmade Christmas' ideas.

Please visit out Facebook page and share them with us!

Corner Cutting

Whatever you choose to fill your bucket with, your children will love getting involved with the build up to the most exciting day of the year – and you're likely to end up with an array of gifts and items that you can make use of year upon year.

By Emma Perry

Ask your child to make up a Christmas story to tell to another grown up. Choose characters and possible events to help them form ideas. They can draw pictures or a story board to help them remember the sequence of the tale.

Provide Plasticine or Playdoh and ask them to make Christmas related items. You can inspire them with ideas or ask them to make up their own ideas so that you can guess what they are.

Take photos to show people how clever they are!

Learn a new Christmas Carol together – or think about festive rhyming words and make a song or poem up yourselves.

Learn to read and spell Christmas related words and draw corresponding pictures.

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Get Christmas all wrapped up with the Jolly Tots festive

Gift Guide It’s that time of year again and to help you with your Christmas shopping, Jolly Tots have compiled our guide to fabulous gifts for families and under 5s, most of which can be purchased from the comfort of your own home without having to battle the crowds!

Elle Belles Toys

was founded by Amanda, a mother of two who after finding it difficult to buy high quality wooden toys at affordable prices, set up her own business. Go online to see her range of gorgeous wooden toys www.ellebellestoys.co.uk or www.facebook.com/ellebellestoys

Crafty Monkey Pottery Painting, Build a Bear and Craft Studio is a great place to

Personalised Baubles ÂŁ9 + P&P

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make truly personalised gifts. Specialising in hand and footprints on pottery or silverprint jewellery, or your child as young as 18 months can paint an original piece of art on pottery! Alternatively, Crafty Monkey gift vouchers make a great gift or they can paint a personalised piece for you. www.craftymonkeypotterypainting.com or call (01480) 219222

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Usborne Books are an old favourite and they make perfect gifts for children of all ages, either to read alone or share with mum and dad. With timeless classics Usborne Books make perfect keepsake books. www.kellysbooks.co.uk Boo Boo Designs, the home of quality for nursery decor, new baby gifts, children's gifts, wooden toys, bookends, the ever faithful children's music box, little coat hooks and coat racks, beautiful snow globes and exciting cot mobiles. www.booboodesigns.co.uk Aloha Photography

specialise in baby, children and family portraits. A photograph preserves the memory of your little ones and make perfect presents for friends and family. Quote Jolly Tots Gift Guide when you book your sitting and receive your portrait sitting, one 10x8 print for you and two 7x5 prints to give to grandparents as gifts, all for the special offer price of £50. www.alohaphotography.co.uk

What do you get for those ‘hard to buy for’ people? Gift vouchers can be a fantastic alternative. Gift vouchers are usually vaild for up to a year (check with the retailer!) so can be redeemed after Christmas when the chaos has died down or on a shopping trip later in the year could be just the thing. Many of the advertisers in Jolly Tots offer gift vouchers for their products and services. For a real memory-making treat, why not buy that special person a ‘gift experience’ voucher? See below for some ideas.

Crafty Monkey

Aloha Photography

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Gamlingay Day Nursery offers safe, happy and secure care for your child in a way that reflects the environmentally friendly nature of the location.

The Kids’ Hub provides convenient childcare, before and after school, for 4 to 13 year olds.

To find out more call us today:

01767 651462 /07712 863096 Eco-Hub, Stocks Lane, Gamlingay, SG19 3JR

email: info@gamlingay-day-nursery.co.uk web: www.gamlingay-day-nursery.co.uk

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changing nappies, Baby Health & Medical Emergencies – such as Meningitis, Learning, Development and Games to play at each stage Crying, Soothing and Massage DVD 3 - Sleeping DVD 4 – First Aid and Accident Prevention, Baby First Aid from St John Ambulance, Accident Prevention Chapter from Child Accident Prevention Trust Our Advisors and Expert Contributors include: • • • • • • • • • •

The Essential Baby Care Guide 4 DVD Complete Guide is introduced and narrated by Professor Robert Winston and demonstrates everything you need to know to look after your baby in their vital first 12 months - all with real parents and babies.

Professor Robert Winston Royal College of Paediatrics & Child Health St John Ambulance UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative Child Accident Prevention Trust Midwives Paediatricians Teachers Child Development Psychologists Meningitis Research Foundation

Our DVDs are an ideal purchase for new and expectant mums and dads, or as a baby-shower gift.

Subtitles are available in Urdu, Arabic and English for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

Topics are demonstrated clearly by experts in each field including experienced midwives, teachers, doctors & consultants, first aid trainers and nurses.

It covers the following areas:

DVD 1 - Feeding, Breastfeeding, Formula Feeding, Introducing Solids/ Weaning DVD 2 – Care & Development, Practical Care – such as bathing and

Giveaway

The Essential Parent Guide Company are offering 10 lucky Jolly Tots readers a free DVD. To enter simply email us at competition@jollytotsmagazine.co.uk with your name, address, telephone number and which DVD you would like. You can choose from: Feeding, Care and Development, Sleeping or First Aid and Accident Prevention DVD. Remember to ‘like’ The Essential Parent Guide Company on Facebook. Closing date for entries is 10th February 2013.

To advertise in Jolly Tots please call us on 01480 219222 or email editor@jollytotsmagazine.co.uk for a media pack

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Expecting a baby is similar to preparing for the festive season, but there are differences too...

It starts earlier every year You have barely unpacked from your summer holiday and Christmas decorations are on sale. From the moment you announce you’re expecting a baby, you’re bombarded with information about what you should and shouldn’t be eating, and everyone has stories of labour to tell you. Gathering information about pregnancy and birth is likely to be useful but take your time. Find websites or books that you like and think about booking antenatal classes where you can meet other expectant parents and plan together. If this is not your first baby, look for an antenatal exercise or relaxation class.

The date’s on the calendar We know exactly when Christmas day will come, but for the majority of expectant parents, you are not going to know when your baby will be born, and every labour will be different.

Only 5% of babies are born on their due date, so your planning needs to be flexible.

We always have nuts at Christmas In December everyone at the supermarket seems to be stocking up with enough nuts to last for a year,

and how many times have you found an unopened and out-of-date tub at the end of March? Buying baby stuff can quickly follow suit! When you are having a baby it can feel like you’ll be failing as parents if you don’t purchase that new ‘must have’ designer pushchair or gadget monitor. Speak to parents who have slightly older children, get their tips on what you really need. Also look out for nearly-new sales, which can save you huge amounts of money.

Yes, we do have to invite twenty people for lunch We all know the pressure of entertaining extended family over the Christmas season. When your baby arrives you can feel the expectation that everyone should visit straight away. However, this is a very special time with a new member of your family when you can get to know one another so you may well feel the need for some time on your own without visitors. Try not to feel the pressure to cater for all your visitors, after all this is not Christmas! You will be recovering from the birth and caring for your baby, so see whether visitors are willing to bring a meal with them, or ask them to make you a cup of tea when they arrive.

Time to unwrap the presents When you have a baby you are likely to get lots of lovely gifts from friends and family and unlike at Christmas time, they won’t be expecting any presents from you in return. This is another good reason not to buy too many things in advance. If you have older children then helping them choose a gift for their new sibling before the birth can be a lovely way to make them feel involved too. You might also want to think about having a gift ready to give to older children so they feel included when everyone else is bringing gifts for the baby.

Ultimately having a new baby is hard work but unlike many of the gifts you get for Christmas it will last a lifetime.

By Jenny Barrett

Jenny volunteers at the St Neots NCT Bumps and Babes group which meets at the Eatons Children's Centre, Eaton Socon, St. Neots 10-12 on Thursdays. All expectant mums and those caring for pre-walking babies welcome.

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Win Myro, the smallest plane in the world audio products narrated by Christopher Biggins for your child.

To celebrate the launch of the new 'Myro, The Smallest Plane in the World' Children’s Audio Storybooks and iPad Apps - narrated by the King of Pantos and I’m A Celebrity winner, Christopher Biggins - we would like to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a full set of six Myro Audio Books and a Myro Activity Pack for your child!

The series follows the adventures of a little British Microlight called Myro – mischievous, curious and prone to disaster – as he settles into his new home ‘down under’ in Australia.

The ‘Myro, The Smallest Plane in the World’ books are fun and link into the pre-school / reception and primary school curriculum themes such as Technology (aeroplanes), Science (Australia and animals), Literacy and Music. They also cover important social and developmental themes such as teamwork, culture, friendship and organisational skills.

With their gripping stories, beautiful images and irresistible characters, 'Myro, The Smallest Plane in the World' is sure to find a place in everyone’s heart.

The Audio Storybooks are available now from Waterstones, Amazon.com and Independent Booksellers.

The fully interactive iPad Apps can be downloaded from the App Store.

For more information on ‘Myro, The Smallest Plane in the World’, please visit www.myro.com or become a fan of Myro’s on Facebook and on Twitter @MyroAdventures.

To win this fantastic prize, all you have to do is answer the following question: What type of plane is Myro?

A) Seaplane B) Microlight C) Jet

To enter email us at competition@jollytotsmagazine.co.uk with Myro as the heading letting us know your name, email, telephone number and full postal address. Entries must be received by 10th February 2013.

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It was while Ali was pregnant with her son (16 months ago) and buying equipment and clothing she was surprised at just how much she needed and the cost involved. A number of items bought were quickly outgrown and hardly used. Ali later sold these items via various means (local paper, internet) which made her think how much easier it would have been if there was a central location where you could go to purchase good quality nearly new equipment, hence The Baby Exchange was born.

The Baby Exchange is in Pidley, Cambridgeshire. They sell and exchange very good condition, pre-owned baby goods as well as a range of new goods. Just a few of the many items include Moses baskets, pushchairs, baby clothes, travel cots, bouncers, Bumbos, highchairs, baby shower supplies and nappy cakes.

The large stock and low prices have proved to be an instant success with their customers and many have made return visits as stock is constantly changing. Payment schemes are available for larger purchases. The Baby Exchange offers the opportunity to exchange items for other items in the shop or in return for a Baby Exchange voucher. follow us: www.facebook.com/thebabyexchangepidley

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Jolly Tots Directory What to do and where to go Art & Craft

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Childcare

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Baby / Toddler Playgroups

Days Out

Development Drama

Entertainment

Family Eating Out

Reading / Story Time Special Needs Sports

Toy Library Little Charley Bear Giveaway

Susan Strictland, Peterborough

Wildlife/Animals

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Little Dish Toddling Shoes Giveaway

Amy Humphreys, Alwalton Gemma Crosby, Eynesbury Vicki Baker, Peterborough Tanya Cornwell, March Jo Tramontin, Gt Cambourne Claire Phillips, Eaton Socon Sarah Jones, Godmanchester Jane Leckie, Huntingdon Josie Railton, Huntingdon Michelle Barnes, Sawtry Angela Brennon, Peterborough Sarah Beck, St. Neots Robert Irons, Brampton Julie Cox, Werrington Scarlett Brenkins, Orton GoldhayKaty Killen, Melchbourne Claire Reid, Needingworth Michelle Millard, St. Ives Jemma Green, Eaton Socon Louise Holmes, Fletton

Please mention Jolly Tots when responding to adverts.

For information about advertising email: editor@jollytotsmagazine.co.uk www.jollytotsmagazine.co.uk

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Art & Craft

Crafty Monkey 12, Moores Walk, St. Neots Pottery painting and craft studio. Baby hand and footprints, make a bear, birthday parties and more! Open Mon Sat 9.30am - 5.30pm. Contact Chrissy (01480 219222) mycraftymonkey.com

Messy Play Scout Hut, Ramsey. For Under 5’s to develop their creative side. Soft play: Tues 9.30am – 11.30am, Wed 1pm-2.30pm. General Play: Fri 9.30am – 11.30am (term time). Call: Sarah Abraham (01487 813279).

Baby / Toddler Playgroups

Baby & Me The Hub, Cambourne. For 0-2 years (older siblings up to school age welcome too). Friday 10-11.30. Cost £1.50 per family email: cambourne.babyandme@gmail.com also find us on facebook: www.facebook.com/BabyAndMe.camb ourne Baby Lounge - Time for Health 8 Station Road, St Ives, PE27 5BH. For babies up to 15mths. Fri 10.45am – 12.00pm. Cost: £3 per mum.

Refreshments, buggy space and toys (01480 461411). Baby Lounge Extra For 0 - 2yrs. Fri 3.30pm - 4.45pm.

Cost: £3. Call: (01480 461411).

Baby Playtime Brewster Avenue Children’s Centre, 10, Brewster Avenue, Woodston, Peterborough, PE2 9PN. For 0 12mths. Tues 9.45am - 11.15am, just drop in (term time). Stay and Play, 0 5yrs 1.15pm - 2.45pm. Book your place (term time). Call: (01733 452600).

Brampton Baby & Toddler Group Brampton Community Centre.

For 0-5 yrs. Every Mon 9.30am -11.30am (term time). Cost £2 per session. Arts & crafts, role play, singing, floor toys for all ages. Healthy snacks and drinks. Call Katie on (01480 355433). Follow us on Facebook.

Brewster Babes Post Natal Group Brewster Avenue Children’s Centre, 10, Brewster Avenue, Woodston, Peterborough, PE2 9PN. For 0 6mths. Varied programme of guest speakers and subjects. Fri 1.15pm 2.30pm. Just turn up. Call: (01733 452600).

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Busybees Baby & Toddler Group Great Staughton Village Hall For 0 - 5 yrs. Weds (term-time) 10.00am - 11.30am. Cost: FREE. Fruit and drink for the children, Arts & Crafts and floor toys for all ages. Call: Lyanne 01480 357540

Busy Bears Fun Time The Priory Centre, Priory Lane, St. Neots PE19 2BH. Newborn - 5 yrs.

Wed & Fri 10am-11.30am (term time).

Cost: £2.50 per child, £4 family ticket.

(01480 388922).

Butterfly Children’s Centre Winhills School, off Duck Lane, St. Neots PE19 2DX. For age 0-5, Mon Thurs 8.45am - 4.45pm. Fri 8.45am 1pm. Contact: (01480 358350) cambridgeshirechildrenscentres.org.uk

Chatterbox Toddler Group Memorial Hall, School Lane, Alconbury.

Fri 9am - 11am. Juice/hot drinks and biscuits provided. Call: Vicky Brown (07775 777091).

Colne Toddler Group Colne Community Hall, East Street.

Fridays during term time.

9.30-11.30am. Birth up-to school age. £2.00 per family. Includes refreshments. Contact Charlotte Daleworth (01487) 843925.

Cyril’s Acorn Club One Leisure St Ives, Westwood Road.

For 0 – 5 yrs. Soft play equipment, climbing frames, tunnels, slides, hoops, bean bags and balls. Thurs 10.30am – 12.00pm term time only.

FREE for under 1’s. Call: (01480 388500).

Fenstanton Baby & Toddler Group Church Centre, Fenstanton.

Meets every Wed (inc. school hols), 10am - 11.30am.Sessions cost £2.

First is free. Come along or call: Becky (01480 493067).

Folksworth Toddler Club Folksworth Village Hall, Folksworth.

Tues 10am - 11.30am. Call Hege Moller-Green (01733 240049).

Funky Monkeys Farcet Salvation Army Church. For age 0-5yrs. Tues/Thurs 9.30am - 11.30am (term times). Cost: £1 per family. Call: Captain Beverley (01733 240130).

Goldhay Mums & Tots Goldhay Community Centre, 105, Paynels, Orton Goldhay, Peterborough PE2 5QP. Newborn - 4yrs Tues 10am

-11-30am, Tots Singing - Thurs 10am and 11.30am. Cost: 50p per family.

Call: Sally (01733 233026) goldhaycentre@tiscali.co.uk Great Gransden Pre-school Playgroup, The Sportsfield, Caxton Road, Great Gransden, Sandy, Beds, SG19 3BG, Tel No: 01767 677040 Manager: Liz Bull

Houghton & Wyton Baby & Toddler Group Houghton & Wyton Memorial Hall, St. Ives Road, Houghton, PE28 2BJ. Arts & Crafts on Tues 10am - 11.45am (inc. holidays). Craft, free play and singing.

Refreshments available. Cost: £2 per family. Call: Sharon Mackie (07753 611337).

Huntingdonshire Twins and Triplets Club (affiliated to Tamba.org.uk) Sure Start Centre, Godmanchester Community Primary School Mon 10am - 11.30am (term time). hunts.twinsclub@googlemail.com

Jigsaw Juniors The Jigsaw Centre, Orton Malborne, Peterborough PE2 5PW. For pre-school age. Toys, books, activities and messy play. Wed 1.30pm-2.45pm.

Run by Orton Children’s Centre (01733 452690). Bookings only.

Leo’s Pre-school Mornings One Leisure St Neots. Relaxed and sociable sessions which include use of Leo's Funzone plus other fun activities.Term time only. For reduced prices, times and dates visit www.leosfunzone.co.uk Little Angels Berkley Street Methodist Church, Eynesbury, St. Neots PE19 2NB. Newborn - 4 years. Wednesdays (term time only) 1pm to 2.45. Free play with lots of floor and table top toys.

Refreshments provided, no fee just donations. Call Ellice (01480 474062) email: ellash1705@gmail.com.com Little Lambs Toddler Group Salem Baptist Church, High Street, Ramsey PE26 1AB. Toddlers: Every Thurs 9.30am-11am (term time). Call: Jo Smith (01487 711109).

Little Monkeys House of Fun One Leisure Ramsey, Abbey Road. For Under 5’s. Bouncy castle, ball pool and soft play area. Wed 9.30am – 11.30am (term time only). FREE for 6 months or under. Call: (01480 387900)

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Mini Movers Kingsgate Community Church, 2 Staplee Way, Parnell, Peterborough PE1 4YT. For newborn - pre-school, Wed 10am - 11.30am (term time). Art, craft, singing and trips. Cost: £1.50 per family, includes drink/snack for all. Call: Kim Connor (01733 311156 via church office).

Mummas & Bubbas Meet Up Mondays in term time: 10.30 - 11.30.

Cost £1. British Legion, 210 Broadway, Yaxley, PE7 3NR. Contact Lou: 07710 465711 mummasandbubbasmeetup@gmail.com

Moonlight Hare’s Baby & Toddler Group Peterborough Museum (from April) First Thursday of each month (term-time only). May 3rd 10:00 - 11:30 am 'Superheroes' theme - come dressed up! Story and rhyme in the galleries; handle real objects and enjoy a craft activity. Suitable for 2 - 5 year olds. £2 per child (babies free).

Contact: Carol Law to book special EY group sessions: (01733 864 700) Vivacity-peterborough.com/museums Mucky Pups Playtimes, Ferriman Road, Spaldwick, Huntingdon PE28 0TQ. Newborn 5yrs. Fri 1.30pm - 3pm (term time).

Bring a piece of fruit. FREE (01480 890077) playtimesplaygroup.co.uk

Needingworth Little Tigers Baby & Toddler Group Needingworth Village Hall. For 0-5 yrs.

Mon 10am -11:30am (term time only).

Call: Sarah (01480 469294).

NCT Bumps & Babes St Jude’s Church Hall, Cranford Drive, Netherton, Peterborough For pregnant parents and babies up to one year old. Tues 1pm-2.30 pm. Cost £1 per family. Join us for coffee & tea, chat, play, postnatal support, and mum2mum breastfeeding info (0844 243 6240, press 1).

Orton Wistow Toddlers Orton Wistow Community Centre, Napier Place Peterborough PE2 6XN. Newborn - pre-school. Indoor and outdoor play. Tues 1.15pm - 3pm (term time). Cost: £2 per family (includes drink/biscuit). Call: Lynn Whitfield (01733 237727).

Rainbow Toddler Group 83A High Street, Huntingdon Community Church Centre PE29 3DP. Newborn – 4 yrs. Tues 9.30am – 11am. Cost: 50p per family,

refreshments provided (01480 411665) church@hccuk.org Ramsey Children's Centre Unit 3 Stocking Fen Road Ramsey PE26 1SA. Open Mon, Tues & Thurs 9.00am-5.00pm, Wed 9.00am-12.30pm and Fri 9.00am-4.30pm. For more details call 01487 814812 or visit cambridgeshirechildrenscentres.org.uk

St Ives Children’s Centre Wheatfields Primary School, Nene Way PE27 3WF. For 0 – 5 yrs. Mon 9am 3pm. Tues - Wed 9am - 5pm, Thurs 9am 4pm, Fri 9am - 12pm. Call: Fran Macklin (07776 494 100).

St. Ives Christian Fellowship Parents and Toddlers Burleigh Hill Community Centre, Constable Road PE27 3ER. Newborn – 4 yrs. Thurs 9.15am – 11am (term time). Call: Jason Street (01480 463161).

St Neots Rural Children’s Centre Little Paxton Primary School, Gordon Road, St. Neots PE19 6NG. For age 0-5. Open Mon - Fri 8.45am - 12.45pm.

Contact: (01480 357540).

Smiley Tots Parent & Toddler Group Yelden Village Hall, Spring Lane, Yelden MK44 1BA. Every Wed 10am-12pm (term time). Come and play! £2 per family inc. drink & snack.

Call: Vicky (01933 317220) The Daisy Children’s Centre Papworth Everard & surrounding villages. For more information about their current programme, call: (01480 831423).

The Eatons Children’s Centre Bushmead Primary School, Bushmead Road, Eaton Socon, St. Neots PE19 8BT. For age 0 - 5. Various courses and support for parents. Open Mon Thurs 8.45am - 4.45pm. Fri 8.45am 1pm. For more details (01480 358340) cambridgeshirechildrenscentres.org.uk Thistle Tots Thistle Drive Playcentre, Wessex Close, Stanground PE2 8HZ. For 0 2yrs. Thurs 1.15pm - 2.30pm and 2 5yrs Fri 10am - 11.15am. To book (term time) call: (01733 452610).

Tiddlers and Toddlers Jubilee Hall, Eaton Socon, St. Neots.

Est. 30 yrs. Friday 9.30am – 11.30am (term time). Call: Margaret Birchall (01480 215695) Benny (07980 810313).

Tiddlywinks St. Andrews Church, Alwalton, near Peterborough PE7 3UU. For Under 5’s and their parents/carers.

Mon 9.30am-11.30am (term time).

Singalongs, stories, toys and refreshments. Call: Liz or Malcolm Ingham (01733 239289).

Totally Tots Goldhay Centre, PE2 5QP. Fri 10am - 11.30am. Cost £1 (term time only). Call: (01733 452690).

Tot Stop Stanground Baptist Church, Chapel Street, Stanground PE2 8JG. Sing song, ride-on toys, drink & biscuit and craft. Fri 9.45am - 11.30am (term time).

Cost £1 per family. Call: Mrs Rush (01733 310411).

Tots’ Praise St. Neots Parish Church, PE19 2BU. Last Weds of month 10.30am. FREE. Bible based, refreshments. Older siblings welcome in holidays. Call: Rev. Paul Andrews, Parish Office: (01480 472297).

Warboys Under Fives Toddler Group High street, Warboys, PE28 2TA. Newborn – 5 yrs. Fri 1pm – 3pm. Cost: £1.50 for first child, 50p for each additional child. Toys, games and refreshments. Call: (01487 823190) Westwood & Ravensthorpe Children’s Centre offer support to local families that include fun, play activities. Based at Highlees and Ravensthorpe Primary School, Call: (01733 266425) for more information.

Childcare

Babysitters/Nannies

Buckden Childcare Agency Nannies, babysitters, childminders and more. Contact: (01480 811180) buckden-childcare-agency.co.uk Nice Nannies Now 40, Station Road, Warboys, Huntingdon, Cambs PE28 2TD. Childcare for all ages. Call: Helen (01487 823516) nicenannies.co.uk General

Baby Café Brewster Avenue Children’s Centre, 10, Brewster Avenue, Woodston, Peterborough, PE2 9PN. Help and advice on breastfeeding your baby from local health visitors and nursery

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nurses. Mon 1pm - 2.30pm (plus baby weighing). Telephone before arriving.

Call: (01733 452600 / 01733 774537).

Jigsaw Centre, Orton Malbourne, PE2 5PW. Thurs 1pm - 2.30pm. Call: (01733 452690 / 01733 237209).

areas. Open daily 10am – 6pm Cost: £3.80 Mon - Fri. Weekends/hols £4.90 open 10am - 4pm.. Playbarn Mums and Tots 10am - 12pm Mon - Fri. Birthday parties. Call: (01480 493394).

Families and Childcare Information Services (Peterborough and Cambridgeshire) Local information about childcare.

Peterborough Families Information Service (0800 29 89 121) calls are free. Cambridgeshire Childcare Information Service (0345 04 54 014) local call charge. Email (for both areas): familiesandchildcare@young-lives.org.uk www.familiesandchildcare.org.uk

Eat ‘N’ Play Huntingdon Road, St. Neots PE19 1XG. Large play area (max height 1.45m/4’9”) Separate toddler area.

Open 11am daily. Cost: £3.75.

Weekends/hols £4.25. Call: (01480 471611) www.eatnplay.co.uk

Baby Café Local Stanground Children’s Centre, 31a Chapel Street, PE2 8JF. Tues 1.30pm 3pm NCT Breastfeeding counsellor visits every week. Please telephone before arriving. Call: (01733 452610).

Days Out

Adventure/Soft Play

Active Antics Highlees Primary School Hall, Ashton Road, Westwood PE3 7ER. For 0 - 4 yrs, Wed 10am - 11am (term time only.) Fun movement activities.

Build sensory and motor skills. Call: Lynn Boness (01733 295864).

Activity World & Toddler World Padholme Road East, Peterborough, PE1 5XH. Indoor play. Separate Toddler World. Open 9.30am – 5.30pm. Closed Tues. Cost: from £4.95. Birthday parties. Call: (01733 314446) www.activityworld.co.uk

Barracudas Activity day camps for age 4 ½ - 16yrs in Huntingdon and Kimbolton. For a free colour brochure call: (0845 123 5299) barracudas.co.uk

Big Sky Adventure Play 24, Wainman Road, Shrewsbury Avenue, Woodston, Peterborough PE2 7BU. Soft play area for under 4yrs.

Open 9.30am – 6pm (term time), Sat 10am - 6pm, Sun 10am – 5pm. Cost: Under 4’s - £4.90, age 4+ £5.90, adults £1.30. Birthday parties. Call: (01733 390810) bigsky.co.uk Crystal Country Play Barn Low Road, Fenstanton, PE28 9HU. Children’s indoor and outdoor play

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Dave the Clown’s Fun House The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Rightwell Peterborough PE3 8DX. For 0 – 8 yrs. Soft Play Centre.

Mon 10am – 1pm. Call: (01733 265705).

Houghton Mill Houghton, Huntingdon PE28 2AZ Kids of all ages will be fascinated to see a working mill in action, with lots of hands on fun too. Beautiful grounds and boat rides. Ideal for a family day out. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Leo’s Funzone @ Huntingdon One Leisure Huntingdon, St Peter’s Road, Huntingdon. Indoor adventure play centre for babies, toddlers and children. A great venue for children’s parties.Free entry for adults and children under 1. Open 7 days a week.

Call: (01480 388600) leosfunzone.co.uk

Leo’s Funzone @ St. Neots One Leisure St. Neots, Barford Road, Eynesbury, St. Neots. Indoor adventure play centre for babies, toddlers and children. A great venue for children’s parties. Free entry for adults and children under 1. Open 7 days a week. Call: (01480 388700) leosfunzone.co.uk Whale of a Time - Childrens Indoor Softplay Centre 8 Viking Way, Bar Hill, Cambridge CB23 8EL Mon-Fri 10am - 5.30pm Sat & Sun 10am - 6pm (01954 781018) www.whaleofatime-cambridge.co.uk Theatre

Key Theatre Embankment Road, Peterborough.

PE1 1EF. Productions aimed at children throughout the year. Box office: (01733 207239).

The Cresset Theatre Rightwell, Bretton Centre, Peterborough PE3 8DX Seasonal shows for children. Call: (01733 265705) www.cresset.co.uk

Development

Developmental Play

Babygrowz Huntingdon, St Neots & Ely. Developmental Play classes for mum and baby. Newborn to 2yrs. Call Janet (07891 676504) info@babygrowz.co.uk www.Babygrowz.co.uk Dance and Movement Brewster Avenue Children’s Centre, 10, Brewster Avenue, Woodston, Peterborough, PE2 9PN. For 12mths 5yrs. Thurs 1.15pm - 2.15pm. Just drop in (term time). Call: 01733 452600.

Happy Faces The Crown Inn, Glinton, Peterborough For 8mths - 5yrs. Educational play, refreshments and more. Call: Claire (01733 324851). www.clairehappyfaces.co.uk Languages

La Jolie Ronde French Open Centre, 58 Burleigh Road, St. Ives PE27 3DF. Introduction to French with songs, rhymes and games. Age 5+ Call: Anna Ireland (01480 382036).

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Little Language Learners St. Neots. Learn Spanish with your toddler through music, movement and rhyme. For age 0 -5. Call: Vicky Payne (07979 503269) littlelanguagelearners@technicks.com www.littlelanguagelearners.com Music/Singing

Clap & Sing / Parachute Play Baptist Church, High Street, Somersham, Huntingdon.

For newborn – 5yrs. Song and movement to stimulate babies. Wed 9.15am – 10.30am, 10.15am – 11.30am (term time only).

Pre-enrolment. Voluntary donation.

Call: Trisha (01487 741456).

Music for Little People Fun and educational music classes for 0 - 5 years. All taught by qualified musicians and teachers. Call: Karen (01480 812469) www.musicforlittlepeople.co.uk

Musical Minis Heritage Park Primary School, Park Farm, Stanground and Alwalton From 0 - 5yrs. Music sessions for babies and toddlers. Call: Janie (01778 570340) www.musicalminis.co.uk Sing and Sign Samuel Pepys School, St. Neots. For 6 - 18mths. Thursdays. Learn to communicate with your baby or toddler pre-speech. Call: Julie Warriner for details (01767 691488).

Tiny Talk Whaddon, Cambourne, Histon & Brampton. Baby signing classes for all babies and young toddlers. Class is 1 hr - ½ hr singing and signing followed by ½ hr social time. Call: Carol (0795 1601107) carols@tinytalk.co.uk

Tuneful Tots Brewster Avenue Children’s Centre, 10, Brewster Avenue, Woodston, Peterborough, PE2 9PN. For 0 - 5yrs.

First session 9.30am -10.25am.

Second session 10.50am to 11.45am.

To book call: (01733 452600).

Warboys Clap and Sing (including Toy Library) Warboys Community Primary School Community Hall. All pre-schoolers welcome. Thurs 1.45pm - 2.45pm (term time). Cost: £1 donation. Call: Kate Smith (01487 824390).

Yoga/Massage/Sleep

Antenatal Yogacise FREE Pregnancy Yoga classes at Ramsey and Somersham Children’s Centres in June/July. Call: Victoria (01954 204742) bumpstobabies.co.uk Babybliss Huntingdon /Peterborough area.

Infant Massage, Baby/Toddler Yoga, Baby & Child swimming and First Aid courses. Call: Kate Stewart (07857 683291) www.mybabybliss.info

Daisy Birthing A course for women who are between 14 to 42 weeks of their pregnancy.

Keeps the body healthy and strong through yoga, breathe work, relaxations and self hypnosis. For course dates contact One Leisure St Ives (01480 388500), One Leisure St Neots (01480 388700) www.oneleisure.net Pregnancy Yoga Oak Tree Centre, Huntingdon PE29 7HN. Wed 7pm – 8.30pm. Call: Barbara Moorby (01480 380307).

Time for Health (Baby massage) 8 Station Road, St Ives (opposite Waitrose). Thurs 10.30am. Helps relieve colic, tummy discomfort, teething and more. Call: (01480 461411) timeforhealth.co.uk

Sleep Clinic If you have a child over 8 mths keeping you awake at night, contact the Westwood & Ravensthorpe Children’s Centre sleep management advisor.

Call: Linda Minett (01733 260833).

Drama

DramaTots - From 2 - 5yrs, younger siblings welcome, £4 per 50 min session. Call: Liz: (01480 839112) www.dramatots.co.uk

Just Drama Drama classes available for children ages 2 +. Call: Natalie 07870 249129 www.littlebeansparties.co.uk

On Stage Youth Theatre School 71, Shakespeare Road, St. Ives PE27 6TT. For age 4+. Train in the performing arts in a fun and friendly environment. Call: Eve Webb (01480 461959) onstageyts.co.uk Stagecoach Theatre Arts School For age 4 +. Learn to act, sing and

dance and build confidence. For Huntingdon classes contact: Jo (01353 667442) and Peterborough call: Ashleigh (01778 440077) www.stagecoach.co.uk Stage Stars Theatre Academy Alconbury, Brampton, Papworth & Sawtry. Classes in drama, singing and dance for ages 2+. Contact: Gemma (07807193182) www.stagestarsacademy.co.uk

Stars on Stage UK Alconbury, Woodston & Orton Waterville. Dance and drama classes for various ages.Courses run over half term and summer holidays. For full details Contact: Sam & Hannah stars-on-stage@hotmail.co.uk www.starsonstage.org.uk

Entertainment

Children’s Entertainers/Parties

Butterfly Party Church Street, Fenstanton Jewellery Making Parties for children aged 4 +. High quality materials.

Teaching from qualified jeweller. butterflyparty.co.uk Call: Teresa on 0845 5194503.

Funergy.co.uk The Children’s party and mobile creche specialists. Fun parties for boys and girls aged 1 - 11. Soft play equipment for hire, ideal for weddings, christenings etc. Call: 08456 804894. info@funergy.co.uk Kreepie Krawlies Soft Play Soft play party hire at your venue (Cambs and Herts area). Call Debbie (07825 771408) www.kreepiekrawlies.co.uk

Little Beans Parties Themed parties for children aged 1 +.

Call Natalie: 07870 249129 www.littlebeansparties.co.uk Colin Daines MMC Magic and balloon modelling. Member of the magic circle. Family occasions a speciality (01480 212571).

Party at One Leisure One Leisure Huntingdon, Ramsey, Sawtry, St. Ives and St. Neots.

All One Leisure sites provide a wide range of fun pool, soft play and sports birthday parties for under 5’s and juniors. Contact your local One Leisure site for details: Huntingdon: 01480

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388600, Ramsey: 01480 387900, Sawtry: 01480 387800, St. Ives: 01480 388500, St. Neots: 01480 388700 or visit oneleisure.net Party Time!

Fun/themed entertainment for tots to pre-teens. Choose from: Knights & Princesses, Grease, Tearless & Fearless, Ugly Bug & Beautiful Butterfly ball or Pirates & Fairies. Call: Trisha (01487 741456) partytime.uk.com

Family Eating Out

Restaurants

Brewster’s Fun Factory & Restaurant (Highwayman) Colmworth Business Park, St Neots also at Hampton, Peterborough. Pub restaurant. Fun Factory within, cost: £3 per child, per hour. Tots time: 10am 12pm (term time). Kids menu in restaurant. Call: (01480 408540).

Fayre & Square Hartford Mill, Wyton, Hartford PE28 2AA. Family pub restaurant. Kids menu. Baby change/highchairs.

Call: (01480 414311).

Frankie & Benny’s Towerfields, Kings Ripton Road, Huntingdon PE29 7EG. New York Italian style restaurant. Children’s menu. Free colouring pack. Call: (01480 437240).

Pizza Express 105, High Street, Huntingdon PE29 3LB. Children’s ‘mini’ menu. Free activity pack. Call: (01480 434446).

Reading / Story Time

Bretton District Library The Cresset, Rightwell, Bretton, Peterborough PE3 8DS. Storytime: Thurs 11am -11.30am.

Rhyme Time: Tues 2pm - 2.30pm.

Story and Rhyme time: Sat 10.30am 11am. Call: (01733 864291).

Cambourne Library, Rhymetime and Storytime alternate Fridays from 9.30am - 10.00am. Term time only. Call 0345 045 5225.

Chatteris Library 2 Furrowfields Road, Chatteris PE16 6DY Storytime, Tues 2:15pm-2:45pm (term-time only), Rhymetime (birth to 3 yrs), Thurs 10am-11am (term time only) Call: 0345 045 5225

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Dogsthorpe Community Library Central Avenue, Dogsthorpe, Peterborough PE1 4LH. Storytime: Thurs 2pm - 2.30pm. Call: (01733 864300).

Eye Library Crowland Road, Eye, Peterborough PE6 7TN. Under 5’ s storytime: Mon 10.30am - 11am. Rhyme Time: Mon 11am - 11.30am. Children’s craft club, Sat 11am - 12pm. Call: (01733 864142).

Hampton Library 6B Serpentine Green Shopping Centre, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8DR. Rhymetime: Tuesday, 10.15 – 10.45am Call: (01733 864538).

Huntingdon Library Princes Street, Huntingdon PE29 3PH. Storytime: 18mths – 5 yrs, Weds 10.30am –11am. Rhymetime: 0 - 18 mths Fri 10.30am - 11am (term time).

Orton District Library Orton Centre, Peterborough PE2 5RQ. Storytime: Orton Library Storytime is every Thursday, 10 – 10.30am (all year round) and every Saturday 11 – 11.30am Rhymetime: Mon 10.30am -11am. Call: (01733 864296).

Peterborough Central Library Broadway, Peterborough PE1 1RX Storytime: Fri 2.15pm - 2.45pm, Sat 11am -11.30am & 2.15pm - 2.45pm.

Rhyme Time: Thurs 1.30pm-2pm. Call: (01733 864280).

Ramsey Library School Lane, Ramsey PE26 1AF. Rhymetime: 0 – 3 yrs. Tues 2pm 2.45pm. Call: (0845 045 5225).

Sawtry Library Fen Lane, Sawtry PE28 5TQ. Story and rhymetime: Fri 2.30pm – 3.15pm.

Somersham Community Information Centre Church Street Somersham PE28 3EG. For pre-school children. Tues 10.30am-11am - stories & rhyme ending with a craft activity every week (term time) (01487 840266).

Stanground Community Library Southfields Avenue, Peterborough PE2 8RZ. Storytime: Fri 3.30pm - 4pm.

Rhymetime Tues 10 -10.30am.

St. Ives Library 4 Library Row, Station Rd, St. Ives PE27 5BW. Rhymetime: (for up to 18mths - preschoolers welcome) Weds 10.30am – 11am (term time).

St. Neots Library Priory Lane, St. Neots PE19 2BH. Storytime: Mon 2pm–2.30pm.

Rhymetime:(0 - 18mths) alternate Tues 11am–11.30am (term time).

Thorney Library Church Street, Thorney, Peterborough, PE6 0QB. Rhymetime: Friday 11am 11.30am. Under 5’s Storytime: Friday 11.30am - 12pm. Call:(01733 864542).

Warboys Library High Street, Warboys PE28 2TA. For 18mths - 5yrs. Storytime:Thurs 10.30am – 11am.

Werrington District Library Staniland Way, PE4 6JT. Storytime: Tues & Thurs 2pm – 2.30pm, (also Thurs) 3.30pm - 4pm.

Sat 10.45am - 11.15am. Rhyme Time: Fri 2.15pm – 2.45pm. Call: (01733 864282).

Woodston Library Orchard Street, Peterborough PE2 9AL.Storytime: Thurs 10.30am - 11am.

Rhyme Time: Wed 2.15pm – 2.45pm Call: (01733 864304).

Yaxley Library Lansdowne Rd, Yaxley. Storytime: Alternate Tues 10.30am–11am (term time). Rhymetime: alternate Fri 10.30am–11am (term time only).

Special Needs

Cambridgeshire Parent Partnership Service For parents and carers of children and young people with special educational needs. Confidential Advice Line: (01223 699214) www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/pps

Sports

Buggy Boot Camp Postnatal outdoor workout for Mums with their buggies. St Neots and Huntingdon. Call Lindsay on 077 30302826 or email:Needs Special lindsay@b-activ.co.uk Cycling

Balanceability One Leisure St Ives, Westwood Road, St Ives PE27 6WU. Introduction to cycling in a safe environment. Develop cycling skills, balance, co-ordination, agility and flexibility. 6 week accredited programme for 2½ to 4 year olds. For course dates contact (01480 388500).

Dance

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Joanne Brown (Formerly: Brown’s Dance Centre) Now teaching at: Tu Danse Studios, Newark Road, Peterborough Rosettes (3-6 yr olds) - £3.75 Wed 4:30pm to 5:15pm Juniors (7-15 yr olds) - £4 on Wed - 5:15pm to 6:15pm.

Call: (01733 235241 / 07843 784417).

Dance Studio The Cresset, Rightwell, Bretton, Peterborough PE3 8DX. Classes for age 2+. Babies Ballet age 3+ Fri 3.15pm - 3.45pm. Modern and tap age 4+ Sat 2pm - 2.30pm. Term time only. Call (01733 842516). www.cresset.co.uk Dance Supplies 20, Bridge Street, St. Ives PE27 5EG. Authorised retailer (01480 498174) www.dancesuppliesstives.co.uk

Kelly Marie’s Dance Supplies Unit 2, Fishers Yard, Market Square, St. Neots PE19 2AF. Outfit sizes from age 2. Call: (01480 477212). www.kellymariesdancewear.co.uk

Linda Allen School of Dance Alconbury, Kimbolton & Spaldwick Ballet, Tap & jazz classes from 3½ yrs.

Email: balletclass@btinternet.com www.balletclass.org.uk New Road Studios New Road, St. Ives, PE27 5BG. Dance, singing and drama. Dance parties Call : Lucie (01480 493111).

Sunny Steps Time for Health, 8 Station Road, St. Ives PE27 5BH. For boys and girls aged 2 - 4. Creative dance and movement. Thurs 9.45am – 10.45am.

Contact: Alison (01954 267378).

Ice Skating

Wendy Burke School of Dance Hartford, Huntingdon and Sawtry.

Ballet classes. For age 3yrs +.

Contact: Wendy (01487 822002) wendy.burke@hotmail.co.uk

Martial Arts

Tu Danse Studios Newark Road, Peterborough, PE1 5YD. Dance & movement classes for age 2 yrs+. Contact: Anita (01733 553830) E-mail: anita@tudanse.co.uk

Planet Ice 1 Mallard Road, Bretton, Peterborough, PE3 8YN. Ice Toddlers: for 18mths - 5yrs. Structured classes to introduce young children to ice-skating.

Always under strict supervision from qualified coach. Cost: £4.20 first child, second child only £1.50. Sun 10am -11am. Call: (01733 260222) www.planet-ice.co.uk

Football

Black Belt Attitude Tora Kai Karate classes at various locations, For age 4+. Call: (01733 246471 / 07800 985724) www.blackbeltattitude.co.uk

Dribblers Football School @ St Ives One Leisure St Ives, Westwood Road.

For ages 2+ years. (01480 388500).

Dribblers Football School @ Sawtry One Leisure Sawtry, Green End Road, Sawtry PE28 5UY. For ages 3 - 5 yrs.

(01480 387800).

Dribblers Football School @ St Neots One Leisure St Neots, Barford Road, Eynesbury, St Neots. For ages 3 – 4 yrs. (01480 388700).

Peterborough Academy of Dance 19, Abbotsbury, Orton Malborne, Peterborough PE2 5PS. Various classes for under fives. Call: Jill Dawson (01733 234 555).

Little Kickers Pre-School Football Classes Peterborough/Stamford and Cambridge. For 18mths – 5yrs.

Children will learn sound football skills with a positive introduction to sport. For free taster session at Peterborough/Stamford call: (07976 179899) pshah@littlekickers.co.uk. For Cambridge call Linzi: (01954 719782).

Stage Door School of Dance St. B’s Hall, Yaxley. Pre-School Ballet on Tuesdays. Call: Lesley (01733 244779)

Baby Gym Huntingdon Gymnastics Club, Claytons Way PE29 1UT. Class for baby walking – 2yrs, Fri 10am -10.45am; 6wks old - walking, 10.50am - 11.35am, £3, term time only.

Structured Toddlers - call to join class (pre-booked and pre-paid. Call: (01480 523 43 - short number). huntgymnast@tiscali.co.uk huntingdongymclub.org.uk

Saldance Theatre Arts 27, Fenlake Business Centre, Peterborough PE1 5BQ. Mums & Tots (from age 2): Thurs 1.15pm. Pre-school age: Thurs 2pm.

Cost: £4 per session. Call: Nicola Storton (01733 340003) Email: info@saldance.co.uk

Stageworks Studios The Towers, High Street, Buckden, St. Neots PE19 5TA. Toddler Dance: Tues 10am - 10.45am.

Call: Pauline (01480 812626) www.stageworksstudio.co.uk

Gymnastics

Tumble Tots For 6mths - 7 yrs. For classes in Peterborough call: Amanda (01832 272127), St. Neots & Huntingdon, contact: Ann (07906 949206), St. Ives Karen (01353 661255) www.tumbletots.com

Evolution Taekwondo Peterborough Martial Arts Academy Unit 4, Wainman Road, Peterborough PE2 7BU. Classes from age 4. Call for more info (01733 235230) info@evolutiontkd.co.uk

Little Ninja’s (Hicks Karate) Loxley Community Centre, Loxley, Werrington, Peterborough, PE4 5BW and Dogsthorpe Community Centre, Poplar Avenue PE1 4QF. Martial Arts Classes for age 3+. Call: Andrew Hicks (01733 810043 / 07974 196256) www.hickskarate.co.uk Swimming

Baby Swimming Lessons One Leisure Huntingdon, Ramsey, Sawtry, St. Ives and St.Neots.

For 6 - 18 mths and 18mths - 3 yrs.

Introduces babies and toddlers to aquatic activities. Call your local One Leisure site for details: Huntingdon: 01480 388600, Ramsey: 01480 387900, Sawtry@ 01480 387800, St. Neots: 01480 388700 or visit www.oneleisure.net

First Strokes Godmanchester Community Pool, Park Lane, Huntingdon PE29 2AG. Swimming lessons for all. (01480 375145) www.firststrokes.com FREE swimming for under 5’s One Leisure Huntingdon, Ramsey, Sawtry, St. Ives and St. Neots.

Free swimming for under 5’s. Call your local One Leisure site for timetables and details of sessions available: Huntingdon: (01480 388600) Ramsey: (01480 387900) Sawtry: (01480 387800) St. Ives: (01480 388500) St Neots: (01480 388700) oneleisure.net

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Junior Swimming Lessons One Leisure Huntingdon, Ramsey, Sawtry, St. Ives and St. Neots.

Qualified teaching staff help your child gain confidence, develop technique and enjoy swimming. Call local site for details: Huntingdon: (01480 388600) Ramsey: (01480 387900) Sawtry: (01480 387800) St Ives: (01480 388500) St Neots: (01480 388700) or visit www.oneleisure.net Kimbolton School Swimming Pool Kimbolton, PE28 0EA. The pool is open to the public all year.

General swimming for children under 8 years of age with parents. Lessons for over 5’s. For more info and timetable details call: (01480 862276) www.kimbolton.cambs.sch.uk Water Babies Teach your baby to swim at classes in Buckden, Cambridge and Wellingbrough. From Newborn. Call: Debi Hogston (01933 651790) www.waterbabies.co.uk

Toy Library

Huntingdon Toy Library Huntingdon Nursery School, Ambury Rd, Huntingdon PE29 1AD. Newborn – 5 years. Thurs 9am 11.15am, 12.45pm – 3pm. £1 per year subs then 25p per toy. Term time only. Call: Mary Mansfield (01480 375216).

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St. Neots Toy Libraries Butterfly Children’s Centre, Winhills School, off Duck Lane 01480 358350 , St. Neots and Eatons Children’s Centre, Bushmead School, Eaton Socon 01480 358350 Mon -Thurs 8.45am - 4.45pm and Fridays 8.45am - 1.00pm. St Neots Rural Children’s Centre, Little Paxton School, Mon-Fri 8.45 - 12.45 Call: (01480 358350).

Toy Library Highlees Children’s Centre,PE3 7ER. Pop in any time. Baby Explorers - Fri 12.45am - 2pm. No charge and no booking needed. Call: Steph for more details (01733 260833).

Warboys Toy Library Warboys Community Primary School - Community Hall. All pre-schoolers welcome. Thurs 1.45pm - 2.45pm (term time). Cost: £1 donation. Call: Kate Smith(01487 824390).

Wildlife

Hamerton Zoo Park Nr Sawtry, Huntingdon PE28 5RE Wildlife park and adventure playground. Open daily. www.hamertonzoopark.com

Pigeons Farm Wisbech Road, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE6 0TD. Many Breeds Of Farm Animals and Birds,

large Play Area, Restaurant and Shop. Open all year. For more details and opening hours call 01733 271020 or 01733 271414,email: info@pigeonsfarm.co.uk or visit: www.pigeonsfarm.co.uk Shepreth Wildlife Park Station Road, Shepreth, SG8 6PZ. Adventure playground and soft playroom for under fives. Open 10am - 5pm. Call: 01763 26 22 26. www.sheprethwildlifepark.co.uk

The Raptor Foundation The Heath, St. Ives Road, Woodhurst, Huntingdon PE28 3BT. Open daily, flying displays. Cost: Under 3’s FREE. Age 4+ £3. Adults: £5. Call: (01487 741140) www.raptorfoundation.org.uk Thurleigh Farm Centre Cross End, Thurleigh, Beds MK44 2EE. Open from 9.30am - 5pm. Farm animals, tractor rides, adventure playgroud, quad bikes, cafe and more!

Call: 01234 771597. www.thurleighfarmcentre.co.uk Wood Green, The Animal Charity King’s Bush Farm, London Road, Godmanchester PE29 2NH. Animal re-homing centre. Children’s play area, pet supplies and shop.

Open 10am – 4pm daily. (0844 248 8181) www.woodgreen.org.uk

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