Jolly Tots Issue 21 - Spring 2013

Spring 2013 - Issue 21

SPRING INTO ACTION! Get Active

Louis Smith Interview

Exercise for Pregnancy

Choosing a Childminder

GIVEAWAYS...

Sacrewell Farm & Nene Valley Railway Family Tickets

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By the time you read this hopefully the dark mornings and evenings will be behind us as we emerge from hibernation with a bounce in our step as spring reaches the air!

I love all the new life that spring brings and find it a great time to get out to enjoy the great outdoors and get active. Getting active is the key theme that runs through this issue of Jolly Tots. I, like many others, was totally inspired by the incredible achievements that occurred in the awesome Summer that was London 2012 when we hosted the Olympics and Paralympics. The games brought us many things, they put a smile on our faces, they made us proud to be British, they made us look at disability in a whole new light and they produced a wealth of new celebrities - not famous for appearing on reality tv but for their sheer determination and hard work that got them to the medal podium - famous for all the right reasons. The games hopefully achieved what they set out to do and inspired a generation! I therefore thought it apt to dedicate this issue to try and inspire our young ones into sports and exercise from an early age.

We kick off with an interview with the much loved Louis Smith, a local lad who done good - very very good! Louis very kindly took time out of his Strictly tour to answer some questions for us. We also thought it apt to support what Louis Smith refers to as his second home, our local Huntingdon Gymnastics Club, in their efforts to fundraise to expand their facilities. Find out what the club has to offer you and your little one’s on page 14. Our article on page 17 provides an overview of some of the sports available to babies, toddlers and pre-school children with page 19 homing in on the benefits of swimming from a young age and page 24 bringing you news of a new martial arts centre and what it can offer your tots. Even our pregnancy article focuses on being active looking at exercise while pregnant.

Hopefully we haven’t over done the ‘Get Active’ theme and if getting active is not your bag then there’s still other content such as our Just Jane section, where this month she is looking at potty training, our ‘Choosing a Childminder’ article and lots of other useful info.

And of course, we have thrown in a couple of competitions where you can win family tickets for days out at Sacrewell Farm and Nene Valley Railway.

Without further ado, get a well needed cuppa, sit back and enjoy this issue of Jolly Tots.

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What Gregory did Next

Interview with Lewis Smith 8

6

Ask Jane - Potty Training

13

Get Active this Spring

17

Choosing a Childminder

21

New Family Martial Arts Centre

24

Spotlight on Huntingdon Gymnastics Club

Swimming with your Baby Exercise for Pregnancy Help Harry

Win Family Tickets for Sacrewell Farm

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Win Family Tickets for Nene Valley Railway 10

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19

Page 8

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Page 23

Page 21

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For the past few months Gregory has been challenging members of the public to keep a straight face in his presence. A small amount of the time he plans his acts of merry-making but generally, Gregory's wit presents itself innocently at the most unexpected of times through his inquisitive mind.

Recently, we were on a busy train and had taken a seat next to a man reading a book. As Gregory sat on my lap peeling a banana, from nowhere he loudly piped up, 'Mummy, do badgers eat bananas?'

Somewhat puzzled, I explained to him that they probably don't as bananas don't grow in the same kinds of places that badgers live in.

He considered this reasoning for a while and then said, 'What if I find a badger and take a banana to him; will he eat it then?'

While I tried to think of a sensible answer to his question, the man beside us and several other passengers had tuned in and started to giggle.

'I'm not sure,' I replied, conscious that I now had a bunch of people potentially waiting for an informed response, 'he might do but sometimes animals can't eat certain foods as they might get a tummy ache.'

Happily Gregory quickly thought of a solution to this problem, 'Well when we get a tummy ache, we go and try for a big poo don't we Mummy?'

By this time the previously silent carriage had erupted into fits of giggles and I was left speechless. Happily, my awkward moment was broken when a man began to sidle past us down the isle.

Mummy,' Gregory began, 'why has that man got no hair? Is it because he's a baldy?'. Well that was one way to change the subject...

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Win

Family Tickets The lovely people at Sacrewell Farm are giving away THREE family tickets and to be in with a chance of winning all you need to do is read the information about Sacrewell Farm and Country Centre on page 10 and answer the following question:

What is the name of Sacrewell Farm’s gift shop?

Email competition@jollytotsmagazine.co.uk with ‘Sacrewell Competition’ as the subject and the answer along with your name, address and telephone number in the message. Competition closes on 1st May 2013.

Terms and conditions: Voucher expires on December 23rd 2013. Entry voucher can be used in conjunction with their events, but some events may incur a surcharge. Family tickets are valid for two adults and two children.

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An Interview with Louis Smith

These days Louis Smith needs no introduction. Born and bred in Eye, Peterborough, Louis took up gymnastics at an early age and spent many gruelling hours training at Huntingdon Gym Club (HGC).

With three Olympic medals to his name, Louis secured the title of Britain’s greatest ever gymnast after his flawless performances at the incredible 2012 Olympics.

It seemed that overnight Louis became a big hit with the nationparticularly the ladies and has more recently shot to fame for winning Strictly Come Dancing.

Louis is our local boy done good and is a great role model for our children.

Louis very kindly took time out of his Strictly tour to answer some questions.

by Chrissy Brown

How old were you when you started in gymnastics?

I was about four when I first started gymnastics.

At what age did your coach recognise that you had exceptional ability and could be an Olympian?

I was always quite naughty at gym and it wasn't until I was 14 and won the European Championships that my coach realised I had the potential to do a lot more.

What would you say the benefits of starting gymnastics at an early age are?

Well, gymnastics has kept me fit, healthy, and given me the discipline and organisation to be able to do the things I do now.

Have there been times when you wanted to quit?

Yes! I think it's quite normal to

have doubts and bad days but generally I have always had a dream to be the best I could be and this has kept me going.

What has helped you stay focused and determined to succeed?

A lot of reggae, friends, family, having goals and a group of training partners that push me to be the best.

You have referred to HGC as ‘so much more than a facility’ and have called it ‘a family and community’, how important were these aspects in keeping you focused?

I have spent thousands of hours at the Huntingdon Gym and love the community of people that I can call my friends and family; my support network. It is so good to be able to train with all ages and abilities, to have them follow your career and be a big part of the progress you make.

What would your advice be to parents of pre school children looking to get their little ones active?

Go visit a gym like Huntingdon and have fun flipping and flying in a safe environment. Many great gymnasts started out in these kinds of classes and I think that gymnastics is the best sport to use as a base for all other sports.

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Having being diagnosed with ADHD from an early age and being on Ritalin, do you have any tips for parents with children with ADHD? Do something active! I had a low attention span and got bored easily but gymnastics kept me interested and was the perfect way to channel my limitless energy.

We understand you were offered a choral scholarship but turned it down for gymnastics. How hard was this decision at the time and did you ever regret it?

It wasn't a difficult decision at the time. I was good at singing but I loved gymnastics and I could still keep singing in the shower! After three Olympic medals I have no regrets and who knows, I can always go back to singing...

How were you able to balance your school work, time with friends and training at the gym?

With difficulty. Gymnastics is a massive commitment involving 30 hours per week of training.

School work was often done in the 40 minute daily car journeys to the gym, and a social life outside of gym always took second place.

Who was your role model growing up?

I’d have to say my mum.

How are you coping with all the publicity and media since you've become a national hero - not to mention all the screaming girls?

It’s not really a chore! I’m doing my best and enjoying every minute. I’m not a national hero; most of them are in Afghanistan.

I’m just a guy who swings his legs round a horse and dances a bit......

We hear you are having a house built with a secret room - what are you intending to have in this room?

It’s a secret.....

Will we be seeing you back at Huntingdon Gym? Definitely. I miss the gym but life is too crazy at the moment.

After the strictly tour I hope to be able to get a bit of my gymnastic fitness back and say hi to some friends.

As well as a fashion line, setting up a gymnastic league and completing your house, what else will you be filling your time with this year?

I’ll be enjoying my new house and working on a number of new projects that we've got in the pipeline. So watch this space!

Thank you Louis x

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There is fun all year round at Sacrewell Farm and Country Centre just off the A1/A47 near Peterborough.

Jump on a bumpy tractor ride around the farm, feed our friendly animals, explore our 18th Century Grade II* Listed Watermill, stop for lunch in Fresh at Sacrewell, burn off some steam in our indoor and outdoor play areas, meet the inhabitants of the Discovery Centre and browse the Three Little Ducks gift shop.

Plus under 2s can enter the farm for free!

With an annual programme of events ranging from Wildlife Week to meeting Father Christmas and from chasing the Easter Bunny to creeping through our haunted Watermill, there’s fun for everyone at Sacrewell.

Our campsite provides the perfect family getaway with camping prices including entry to the farm.

There is no entry charge for our shop or eatery.

Join us for a delicious Sunday lunch in the countryside.

For information visit www.sacrewell.org.uk

W I NNene Valley Railway Family Tickets Another exclusive Jolly Tots competition! This time we have two family tickets for the Nene Valley railway

The tickets (worth £38 each) allow two adults and a maximum of three children to ride on the railway (all day if they wish) and are valid until the end of 2014.

Riding behind a steam train is just one of the things that an active kid will love to do at the railway. There is loads to do including a great railway themed children’s play area and several model railways which operate at various times. The train also stops off at Ferry Meadows which is an ideal chance to let your children run around. NVR’s Wansford cafe also offers healthy food to tickle a young palette.

Grown-ups can be assured of all sorts of good things to eat as well.

These tickets cannot be used for NVR special events / galas or when alternative fares apply.

To enter: email your name, address and telephone number to competition@jollytotsmagazine.co.uk before 1st May 2013.

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2013 brings the start of a whole new round of trying to find ‘that perfect gift’ for the endless line of kids that seem to be added to your child’s ‘friends’ list every year.

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“Ask Jane”

Gurjit Singh from Paston, Peterborough asks:

What age do you recommend I start to potty train my son and do you have any helpful tips?

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.

Embrace the subject or dread it; potty training is something we’ve all been through as children at different ages (although happily we are unlikely to remember it.)

Prior to disposable nappies I’m sure that we were trained as soon as possible for practical reasons but it would have been unlikely that this was done much before the age of two years (despite what our mother has told us) simply because children are not ready emotionally or physically to cope with potty training before 18 months. Girls are generally ready sooner than boys. I do not profess to be an expert; all I can do here is to share my experiences of my own children and observations in the nurseries.

Personally I’ve never wanted to potty train my children ahead of when they are ready, purely because this does minimise the number of accidents the child is likely to have. That said, our time potentially spent mopping and washing is reduced and from the child’s point of view, less puddles means less chance of knocking their self-esteem and confidence. Talking of which, when potty training is underway, sticker charts and rewards work wonderfully well, in conjunction with regular trips to the potty and toilet-training friendly clothing – no dungarees with jumpers over the top!

Probably my best tip follows the experience of my own children. My eldest son showed absolutely no interest in using the potty. The weekend he turned three I asked him to start using the potty, which he did with no ado and just a couple of accidents thereafter. My daughter wanted to potty train at around two and a half years old, simply so that she could wear pretty knickers which she did after a few months of a few puddles. However, my youngest son showed all the signs of staying in nappies, I believe because he could eventually wear his school uniform over them. At three and a half he decided to discard the nappies, both day and night and has never had an accident in the five months that has passed since then.

So from three children, there were three very different responses to potty training at different ages.

Thus my advice here is to try not to compare your toddler with their friends or siblings. Your child will potty train in their own good time as and when they are ready to do so.

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

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A Spotlight on: Huntingdon Gymnastics Club

For more than 35 years our local Huntingdon Gymnastics Club (HGC) has provided opportunities for thousands of people to stay healthy, to enjoy sport, to meet new people and to achieve excellence. By Chrissy Brown Many people local to Huntingdon may know the gym as a great children’s party venue and have perhaps been there for a party or two. However, the summer of 2012 was a defining year for the club when it shot into the limelight during the Olympics and became wider recognised for its excellence in producing world class gymnasts such as our local born Olympian Louis Smith (see interview on page 8). I think most will agree that this club together with Louis Smith has really given us locals something to be proud about.

I popped along to visit the gym and spoke to head coach, Paul Hall, about gymnastics and to find out what is on offer for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers but also to find out if things have changed at the club since receiving worldwide recognition at the Olympics and to find out their future plans.

Paul explained how you don’t need to be the next budding Olympian to enjoy the benefits of gymnastics and

HGC has always been accessible to everyone from babies to adults and disability groups.

He went on to say that everyone can benefit from gymnastics and it is a great introduction to physical activity stating:

‘Gymnastics is a foundation sport that underpins all other sports and children who start off in gymnastics will find it much easier to move into other sports such as netball and football’.

Gymnastics can teach a child self discipline, self control and basic interaction while they are having fun. It is also obviously great for flexibility and co-ordination. Paul also referred to research that shows if a child is introduced to exercise from an early age they are more likely to carry on with exercise throughout their life

Get Your Pre-schooler on the Right Track

Babies Programme They start them young at the club and have structured and unstructured sessions for different age groups. I was surprised to hear that the youngest age is eight weeks that can attend their Baby Sessions on a Friday morning. The sessions concentrate on a basic introduction to movement and they focus on utilising motor skills relevant to the baby’s age. It also covers baby massage and yoga. Paul stresses how parents really enjoy these classes as they make great bonding sessions between parent and baby.

Toddler and Pre-school Programme Once your baby graduates to being a toddler and is walking, they offer structured and unstructured sessions for up to five years. The structured sessions are coach led and themed each week, for example they may be based on a trip to the moon or a visit to the farm and here your child will be introduced to some of the equipment such as the trampoline.

This class serves as a springboard to the afterschool gym programme they offer to school age children.

They also offer unstructured sessions for toddlers to five years where your child can let off steam and run around and play in a safe environment.

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It’s Not Just for Children If like me you think you have to start young to start gymnastics then think again as they also run adult sessions which welcome beginners with one Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/jollytotsmagazine and follow us on Twitter: @JollyTotsMag

perseverance and natural talent are key, he mentioned the importance of having a winning mentality and a belief that you can win. While Paul played down his role, I had a strong suspicion that he, as Louis’s coach, also played a large part in Louis’s success.

man starting recently at the age of 50.

If however you are happy to leave the gymnastics to the children, they have a cafe where you can relax while your child is at their class.

Have Things Changed Since the Olympics?

We then went on to speak about the impact the Olympics has had on the gym. Paul said the recognition and publicity that the Olympics brought had a massive impact on the club and has also put Huntingdon on the map for a positive reason. As a result of the publicity, they have had a big influx in the number of people going to the gym and joining their gymnastic programmes and are more than ever desperate to expand their facilities to cope with demand.

Expansion Plans In order to achieve their expansion plans of a new building in the adjacent field they have embarked on a massive fundraising mission to raise 100K. Other monies for the building works will come from various grants. Paul spoke of the great response they have already received from some local businesses and the local paper, The Hunts Post, who have really got behind them to provide support and publicise their campaign.

However, they have only reached a tenth of their 100K target. While Paul is very grateful for all the help and support so far received, he

stressed they are desperately in need of a lot more financial help as there is still a long way to go. If you would like to donate you can by texting BEAM99 £(and the amount) to 70070 or visiting – www.localgiving.com/charity/huntin gdongymclub, or perhaps you would like to support one of their young hopefuls Harry O’Driscoll, age 12, who trains at the gym and is so passionate about raising the funds that he has vowed to sleep in his tent until the funds are raised.

Harry is now over five months into this challenge and still going strong despite the harsh winter conditions. To read more and to find out how you can support him see page 34.

Secret to the Success I was also keen to know Paul’s secret behind Louis’s success.

Obviously while hard work,

Up and Coming Hopefuls To end the interview I was keen to find out if Paul had any up and coming future Olympians for Rio 2016. He said Daniel Keatings and Cameron McKenzie are working towards Rio and there are some others that could potentially make the cut. He also spoke of a busy girls’ programme which has some promising talent, so I guess we will ‘watch this space’ and hopefully see more world class talent coming out of our local gym club!

Paul ended by saying:

‘The next Louis Smith could toddle through the door at any time’.

Contact HGC: Mayfield Road, Huntingdon PE29 1UL Tel: 01480 52343

www.huntingdon-gymnastics.org

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Get Ac ve this Spring!

Introducing your li le ones to exercise and sport

If you and your children have been curled up in your hibernation boxes over the cold winter months, then you wouldn't be the only ones! As we begin to dust ourselves down and slowly tiptoe into spring, it's a great time to cast our minds back to the most exciting event of last summer, the Olympics.

A key feature of London’s bid and subsequent planning for the Olympic Games was a commitment to 'inspire a generation'.

It certainly did not disappoint as children from all over the country have found inspiration from sporting stars who have become famous almost overnight off the back of their fantastic achievements.

In and around our area, we are lucky enough to have a great range of clubs, classes and leisure facilities available to us meaning that children can reap both the physical and mental benefits of active sport; whether they’re developing new skills, getting fit or learning to set themselves goals and compete against others. With that in mind, it's time to get your little ones out there and get involved!

If you're a parent of a young baby, you may be wondering how your

tiny tot can benefit and what is on offer. From a very early age, babies can enjoy having their senses stimulated and to begin to socialise as they start to make sense of the world around them and they can start some sports from just a few weeks old.

Swimming A fantastic way to start out is with baby swimming, which they can start in the first few weeks of their lives! Why not pop along to your local leisure centre or a specially tailored swimming class to get your baby acquainted with the water?

Whatever the age or ability of your child, swimming is a potentially life saving skill, so it’s a good idea to get them into the water as early as possible to enjoy a splash about as often as you can. See page 19 to read more about the benefits of taking your babies swimming.

Gymnastics Gymnastics is another sport which is beneficial to get involved in early.

As your child grows they can join classes which are tailored to meet the needs of their age and ability.

Gymnastics is a great way to build core strength, keep fit and healthy and achieve personal goals.

Children will have the opportunity to work as a team, building

relationships with and supporting others. There are a range of sessions which are designed to give infants a great start, encouraging active play and focused activities to aide important development. There are also baby gym clubs locally that start your tot from just a few weeks old! Contact your local gymnastics club to see what they offer.

Cycling If the great outdoors is more up their street, how about some energy burning exercise? We all know that cycling is a really good low impact way of keeping fit - but the other benefits are endless.

Whilst out and about on a bike ride, your child can learn about the world around them and how to ride safely building up important road awareness. Babies can start to develop co-ordination and gross motor skills using a ride-on vehicle as soon as they have a sense of balance. From there they can learn further control and peddling skills on a tricycle until they are ready to advance to a small bike with stabilisers. For more information about cycling clubs and events in your area look at: www.britishcycling.org.uk.

Continued on page 26

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Swimming with your baby 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

Splashing Fantastic!

Boo Boo Designs, the home of There’s very little in life that one of the most complete and reduces stress and boosts quality for nursery decor, new baby gifts, creates a greater shock to a beneficial activities, as well as feelings of wellbeing, for parents children's gifts, wooden toys, bookends, woman’s system than having a being one of the few things you and babies alike. Babies love the ever faithful children's music box, baby. Your body and mind will can do with your baby from birth. being in water and swimming little coat hooks and coat racks, beautiful have gone through the mill; you’ll from birth is entirely natural. snow globes and exciting cot mobiles. be pretty tired (and maybe a bit Just half an hour of swimming After all, they’ve just spent nine www.booboodesigns.co.uk emotional); you might even feel a will provide you both with a great months in the womb!” It’s a great little adrift from the world. physical workout - buoyancy and idea to start from as early as water resistance mean that you’ll possible; not only does swimming So probably the last thing on both exercise more muscles, make babies stronger, but your mind is the thought of more effectively in water than on movement has crucial taking any form of exercise. land. And all that lifting your neurological benefits. The first After all, isn’t this the time, more baby up in the air, swishing them year of life is a time when the than any other, when you’ve around and moving through the brain grows the most rapidly, earned your right to those three water is great for toning those with every action stimulating its extra biscuits? arms and can burn an impressive growth, strengthening nerve 300 calories! fibres and making it function However, for most women, more efficiently. around six weeks after giving Splashing around birth is a great time to start “The skin-to-skin contact that Swimming with your baby will thinking about exercising again. swimming with your baby introduce them to a life long love Many new mums find shedding involves is one of the best things of staying healthy and fit, whilst those post-baby pounds a you can do to bond with your having a great time too! What challenging experience. But if baby,” explains Debi Hogston who could be better? you take the plunge sooner runs multi-award winning Water rather than later, you’ll find it Babies classes across For more information about much easier to regain as much of Peterborough and Cambridge, your nearest Water Babies your pre-baby physique as “and being in such a cosy, class visit: possible. Swimming with your intimate environment really www.waterbabies.co.uk or baby not only provides a great enhances the bonding process. call Debi on 01933 277035 or workout for you and your It’s believed that physical contact 07814059594. newborn, but it’s also a magical bonding experience.

A work-out for two It’s never too early to take your baby to the pool – as long as the water is warm enough. Water Babies teaches in warm water and hydrotherapy pools, which are just like stepping into a giant bath tub and perfect for new or premature babies. Swimming is Crafty

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Choosing a Childminder

When choosing a childminder, one of the key decisions to make is what type of environment you want your child to be in. Some childminders try to mirror the routines of a day nursery, others provide a ‘second home’ for the children, while ensuring that they follow the Early Years Foundation Stage guidelines.

Have you considered a childminder who has their own children at home? If so, remember to take into account their child’s age and how dependant they will be on their mother, (your childminder!) but also how their child could be good company for yours.

Do you need full or part- time childcare or simply someone who is able to carry out the dreaded before and after school runs?!

Bear in mind, that if the childminder provides an out of school service and your child is not of school age, they will also

be going on the school runs and will have older children around for a few hours each day and more often in the school holidays. Most parents view this positively and believe it is a good way of your child getting used to children of all ages.

It is important to know what your child will be doing during the day.

You should ask what activities they carry out and if they take the children on any trips, such as to the park or the local swimming pool. This will generally depend on how many children are in the childminder’s care at any one time.

It is sensible to spend some quality time with the childminder while they are working before making any decision, to give you the opportunity to see how they

work. It is strongly recommended that you book your child in for a couple of settling-in sessions before their start date.

Ensure that the childminder provides parents with an overview of the day or has a diary system so that you can be informed of your child’s day and still feel involved and also make sure you have a copy of their policies and procedures.

Most importantly, you must feel comfortable with your childminder and be able to get along with them - if you don’t, then it won’t work.

Useful information can be found on the National Childminders Association website (NCMA) http://www.ncma.org.uk

By Heidi McFadyen

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E xercise for pre g n a n c y When you discover you’re pregnant you might feel this is the one time in your life that you can put your feet up and relax and forget about the gym for a few months! However staying active during pregnancy will not only boost your health but is also likely to make you feel more comfortable as your pregnancy progresses.

During the first months you may well feel more tired and if you are suffering with pregnancy sickness you might also lack energy to exercise. However once you get past that, many women find some exercise during pregnancy helps them to keep fit and healthy and certainly in the last few weeks, can also help with relieving pregnancy aches and pains and help you sleep better.

If you have a more complex pregnancy or if you are unsure whether exercise will be safe for you due to particular circumstances then always have a chat with your midwife first.

If you already exercise regularly

By Je n n y B a r r e t t

at the gym, through a sports club or class, always make sure that you tell the instructor that you are pregnant (even in the early stages). Research shows the main negative effect of exercise in pregnancy is that there is the potential for aerobic exercise (which is strong enough to raise your temperature) to have negative effects on the baby or pregnancy in the same way that a raised temperature from infection might. To avoid this you may feel that you will need to modify your regime. It is recommended that contact sports are avoided after the first three months of pregnancy as well as horse riding, skating, skiing and cycling, due to the risk of falling.

Even if you have not done regular exercise before, this might be a good time to start.

There are many specialist pregnancy exercise sessions available – from yoga for pregnancy to classes which incorporate preparation for birth together with exercise. St Neots Leisure Centre also offer Aquanatal sessions, run by a midwife. These exercise

sessions in the pool have the added benefit that you gain relief from the extra weight of pregnancy by being in the water (and a great taster for the benefits of using a birthing pool for pain relief in labour). As well as the benefits of the exercise you may well find such classes a great way to find friends who are having babies at the same time as you which may prove invaluable in those first months after your baby is born. You might prefer to use one of the many DVDs on the market, demonstrating exercise for pregnancy, or just go for a walk a few times a week. Whatever you choose, remember that you are helping yourself and your baby, and it can be a great chance to get some time to yourself.

Jenny Barrett is an antenatal teacher for the NCT. She teaches a variety of classes in St Neots. Please look at www.mantenatal.com for details or use www.nct.org to find NCT classes in your area.

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New Family Martial Arts Centre Opens

Hicks Karate School of Excellence celebrated ten years of running their full time martial arts school at the end of 2012. Although Chief Instructor and school owner Andrew Hicks has been teaching for more than 20 years and training in martial arts for more than 25 years in many different styles including Lau Gar Kung Fu, Sport Karate, Tang So Doo and Kickboxing. Sensei Hicks currently holds a 3rd Dan in Sports Karate and 3rd Degree in Kickboxing.

Hicks Karate has taught over 1500 students over the past ten years, producing over 40 black belts, 12 world champions, 19 European Champions and over 20 British Champions. Some who have gone on to become full time Martial Arts Instructors, Sports Instructors, teachers and newspaper/children’s TV channels sports nominees. They hope over the next ten years to double that.

Hicks Karate has recently moved into their new purpose built full time family martial arts centre - The Technology Centre, Vicarage Farm Road, Fengate, Peterborough, PE6 7RH. It is the biggest martial arts school in the area offering 30 classes a week from their full time centre as well still offering classes in multiple locations around Peterborough and surrounding areas. With over two hundred full time members as well as teaching in local schools within the Cambridgeshire area.

They offer classes:

Pre-school (3 – 5 years old) Little Ninjas © At our school the Little Ninjas have their own belt system separate to our normal curriculum grades and their last grade is the first grade in our children’s programme. This makes the transition into our children’s beginners programme very easy once they have completed our Little Ninja syllabus. We work on eight major skills when training our Little Ninjas. Each class, we will cover one of these skills with a wide variety of activities that are fun and at the same time educational. We make learning fun. Martial arts is much more than kicking and punching, it’s being the best that you can be in everything you do, just like a Black Belt.

My own daughters have been a huge influence in helping me realise that martial arts has huge benefits at home, school and in day to day life. They have been Little Ninjas since the age of three. Like me, other parents are realising the benefits of Martial arts for their children at an early age and the Little Ninja syllabus has it all. It really is a programme that the children love and that parents love too as they see many external benefits. As an instructor I highly recommend implementing a pre-school class into your martial arts lesson schedule.

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Karate 4 Kids (5 – 12 years old) Our Karate 4 Kids programmes teach the fundamentals of martial arts in a fun and friendly environment incorporating our eight keys: Discipline, Respect, Focus, Self Defence, Confidence, Perseverance, Dedication and Black Belt Attitude. We have had great results in the dojo with outstanding grading results, on the national circuit producing British, European and World Champions, outside the dojo with improved grades, focus and behaviour. We continuously teach this programme in our martial arts school and in the after school programmes around Cambridgeshire’s schools.

Teens Kick (13 – 18 years old) We learned very fast that teenagers need to be taught in a completely different way and developed our programme focusing on fitness, self-defence and discipline, motivating and driving students towards their individual goals.

We incorporate many aspects of our teen class as well as some of the fun and games we teach in our children’s class into our adults Kickboxing, Ladies Only Kickboxing, Fitness Kickboxing as well as circuit training and private tuition. It all helps to keep martial arts classes new and exciting as well as keeping students motivated.

SENSEI ANDREW HICKS

INFO: If you would like to know more information about any of our programmes and the way we teach it at Hicks Karate School of Excellence Peterborough you can contact Hicks Karate School of Excellence. @ www.hickskarate.co.uk, www.littleninjaskarate.co.uk or sensei@hickskarate.co.uk (01733) 810043 or 07974196256

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New to St. Neots

My partner and I came up with the idea to open a baby clothes shop around Christmas time in 2011 and in June 2012 Cots 2 Tots was born.

We wanted to do something for ourselves and found that with the ever growing population of St Neots and its lack of variety in the way of clothing for babies, there was a great opportunity to open a baby clothes shop. We have both been amazed at the success of the shop and at how well it has taken off and hope that we will continue to grow.

At present the majority of our stock is aimed at newborns to 23 month olds, however we are slowly introducing the next age range which will go up to 4 years.

Our new spring/summer range is gradually making its way into the shop and the stock looks amazing. If you like what we have in store already then you will love the new range!

Hopefully over the coming weeks we shall have a website where not only can you just browse, you will be able to purchase as well.

Look out for our web address on the shop front. See you in there soon!

Martial Arts All of us like to bring out the best in our children and have them conduct themselves in a respectful and considerate manner and with that in mind, there’s a range of martial arts that children can take up from an early age. Martial arts is an ancient method of training the mind, body and spirit to act as an entity to ultimately teach the individual self defence, competition and physical strength and fitness. There are a range of martial arts for your child to learn and each type practices a different focus. It’s worth researching them and calling some local clubs to find out what might suit your child.

Football Many little ones like to have a kick about in the park, so why not allow them to transfer their ball skills and take up an active team sport? Great for confidence boosting and learning social skills,

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football is popular with both boys and girls alike. There are local classes which take children from just 18 months.

Dance We are fortunate enough to have a wide variety of dance classes in and around our region and there’s

See page 33 for our Sports Listings and also see adverts for sports throughout Jolly Tots a dance style to suit everyone!

Starting from toddling age, children can undertake classes and workshops to improve their agility, motor skills, confidence and above all enjoy themselves! You can even

find ‘Mother and Toddler’ classes and learn the ropes together.

And for Mums and Tots...

If you’ve recently given birth or find yourself unable to get to the gym due to lack of babysitter, never fear as there are local fitness classes availible which allow babies and toddlers to join mummy whilst she gets a good cardio workout. Look out for fun classes that involve being outdoors and doing the fitness with your buggy or pram.

Take time to let your child find out about different sports and experiment within the huge range of activities that are available to them. It will soon become apparent what they are good at and what they enjoy doing best.

You never know, you might just be the parent of a budding Olympic athlete!

By Emma Perry

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Help Harry 12 year old Harry O’Driscoll who trains at Huntingdon Gymnastics Club for 18 hours per week (and a lot more in the school holidays) is doing his bit to help raise funds for an extension and refurbishment of the existing gym by camping out in a tent until the funds are raised.

Harry started this great feat on the 24th August 2012 and despite the awful and very bitter weather conditions he has not spent a night inside. Come rain or snow, at bedtime Harry can be found in his tent in the garden.

He said, “We need to to raise £100,000 as soon as possible ...The Club is like a second home to me as I spend so much of my time there. So I am doing my bit by camping in my tent for as long as possible.”

So far the club have raised 10K and Harry has raised over 2K.

Harry would be delighted if you could help his plight by sponsoring him:

www.justgiving.com/Harry-O-Driscoll-2012

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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

Wildlife/Animals 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 (01480 219222) www.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).

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Baby & Me The Hub, Cambourne. 0-2 years (older siblings up to school age welcome) Friday 10-11.30. Cost £1.50 a family. cambourne.babyandme@gmail.com www.facebook.com/BabyAndMe.cambourne

Baby / Toddler Playgroups

Baby Lounge - Time for Health 8 Station Road, St Ives, PE27 5BH. For babies up to 15mths. Fri 10.45am – 12.00pm. Refreshments, buggy space and toys 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).

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).

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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 Rd, Gt 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.

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)

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).

Moonlight Hare’s Baby & Toddler Group Peterborough Museum First Thursday of each month (term-time only). Story and rhyme; 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 MOMS Club of Huntingdon Playgroups/Playdates, Park days, Outings, MOMS Night Out, Crafts, Activity Groups & More! Supporting moms with kids of all ages. Email momsclubofhuntingdon@gmail.com www.momsclubofhuntingdonuk.weebly.c om. Follow us on Facebook 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 Mummas & Bubbas Meet Up British Legion, 210 Broadway, Yaxley, PE7 3NR.Mondays in term time: 10.30 11.30. Cost £1. Contact Lou: 07710 465711 mummasandbubbasmeetup@gmail.com 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. 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 (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

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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. Toys for babies, toddlers and pre-school children, craft activity, singing and refreshments. A friendly and welcoming group. Fri 9:45-11:45 (Term time) Call: Jane Carter (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.

WhoLet the Dads Out A chance to have some fun with your preschooler, eat some bacon,meet some other dads, even read the newspaper! 1st Saturday of the month at 9am. St Mary’s Church Eaton Socon. Cost £1 per child.

Contact curate@eatonsocon.org

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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 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).

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).

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

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

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 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).

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).

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) w w w. eatnplay.co.uk

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, Barford Road, 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

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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 The Rainbow Children's Centre Sure Start Parkhall Road, Somersham For newborn – 5yrs. Song and movement to stimulate babies. Wed 9.30am – 10.30am, 10.30am – 11.30am (term time only).

Pre-enrolment. Voluntary donation.

Call: Trisha (01487 741456).

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).

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

Colin Daines MMC Magic and balloon modelling. Member of the magic circle. Family occasions a speciality (01480 212571).

Singing Beans St Mary’s Parish Hall, The Walks East, Huntingdon.

Pre-School singing session with puppets, bubbles, instruments etc Mon 10am. £2 per child. Contact Natalie 07870249129

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

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

31

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.

Crafty Monkey MooresWalk, St Neots or Mobile Offers Pottery Painting, Build a Bear, decopatch, Jewellery Making parties for all ages. Call (01480 219222) www.craftymonkeypotterypainting.com

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.littlebeansworld.com

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

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Ab-Fab Party Time!

Fun entertainment for Babies ,Tots through 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

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,Needs Station Rd, St. Ives PE27 Special 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).

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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: 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

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).

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

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

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).

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

Wendy Burke School of Dance Hartford, Huntingdon and Sawtry.

Ballet classes. For age 3yrs +. Contact: Wendy (01487 822002) wendy.burke@hotmail.co.uk Football

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).

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).

Gymnastics

Baby Gym Huntingdon Gymnastics Club, Claytons Way PE29 1UT. Class for baby walking – 2yrs, Fri 10am -10.45am; 8wks 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 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 Ice Skating

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

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

33

Martial Arts

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

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

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

Swimming

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).

First Strokes Godmanchester Community Pool, Park Lane, Huntingdon PE29 2AG. Swimming lessons for all. (01480 375145) www.firststrokes.com

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).

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

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

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

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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).

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

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/Animals

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

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First class ÂŁ5

Redeemable on Membership Offer valid for new or returning customers not attended for 6 months or longer.

At participating loctions only.

CAMBOURNE

The Hub Community Centre, High Street

Tue 6.45pm & Wed 7.45pm ST NEOTS

Priory Jnr Sch, Longsands Road Mon & Wed 6.45pm & 8pm, Sat 9am Express (30 min) Mon & Fri 6pm

Classes also in Sandy, and other areas.

Further info call 01480 216090 or www.facebook.com/jazzercisecambsbeds or

search on www.jazzercise.co.uk for your nearest class.

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

35

ÂŁ39.95

36

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