Jolly Tots Issue 30

!

EE FR

J!y To师

SUMMER 2015 www.jollytotsmagazine.co.uk

YOUR FREE GUIDE FROM PREGNANCY TO PRE-SCHOOL

SUMMER SIZZLERS! Big days out, activities and local family events you will not want to miss Happy snappers

TAKE YOUR BEST EVER FAMILY PHOTOS THIS SUMMER WITH TIPS & TRICKS FROM A PRO

Music to our ears

WHY IS LEARNING MUSIC SO IMPORTANT FOR UNDER 5S? WE ASK THE EXPERTS PLUS!

UNSUNG TRUTHS FOR NEW PARENTS, ARTS & CRAFTS, REVIEWS, RECIPES & MORE...

Summer 2015

Welcome to the Summer issue of Jolly Tots...

IT’S OFFICIALLY SUMMER and so far we’ve had some fabulous weather, putting picnics, days out and outdoor play well and truly on the agenda.

Which is why we’ve packed this issue with activities, events and ideas to keep you all busy and having fun. We’ve also got reviews, news and a contest to win theatre tickets (see p16). If you want to know how to take your best ever photos of your little ones, turn to page 9 for some tips and tricks as well as some tasty family recipes (p21). As we go to press, we welcomed the news that the Meningitis B vaccine is at last going to be available on the NHS for babies under 12 months from September, and we’ve also got news about a new blood test that may predict premature birth. Finally congratulations to all our contest winners from last month, we hope you have a great time. Enjoy your summer!

WIN TICKETS to the Cambridgeshire Baby & Toddler

CAROLINE SCHMIDT EDITOR/OWNER

Show on 13 September. We’ve 10 tickets to giveaway so keep an eye on our Facebook page for details on how to collect yours.

editor@jollytotsmagazine.co.uk 0770 3274439

Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/jollytotsmagazine

Follow us on Twitter: @JollyTotsMag

Contents

9

5 BUMP & BABY News and advice for expectant parents 7 EARLY LEARNING The benefits of music for your little ones 9 PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS Expert tips for taking better family photos

12

J!y Toʦ Get in touch

11 FAMILY PLAYTIME Ideas and activities for lazy summer days 12 LITTLE PINS REVIEW Bowling for toddlers –are they bonkers?

Telephone: 0770 3274439 Email: editor@jollytotsmagazine.co.uk Visit: www.jollytotsmagazine.co.uk

14 SUMMER EVENTS Events you won’t want to miss this summer

Editor Caroline Schmidt

16 BIG DAYS OUT

editor@jollytotsmagazine.co.uk

Things to do, place to go, fun to be had

Design Luke & Joanna Marsh

18 PARTY WITH CRAFTY MONKEY

artwork@jollytotsmagazine.co.uk

What to expect from this family favourite

19 SUMMER CRAFTS Glue, glitter and paper plates at the ready!

11

Advertising

advertising@jollytotsmagazine.co.uk Contributors: Sally Tilley, Karen Dickinson, Riverford and Bex Heywood

21 FAMILY FEEDING Delicious recipes and weaning advice

Advertising & distribution enquiries: advertising@jollytotsmagazine.co.uk Advert design services & queries: artwork@jollytotsmagazine.co.uk

24 WHAT’S ON LISTINGS Your local classes, services and activities

Like us on Facebook: www.facebook. com/jollytotsmagazine Follow us on Twitter: @JollyTotsMag Digital edition: issuu.com/jollytots

16

19

Any information provided in Jolly Tots or Jollytotsmagazine.co.uk is strictly the opinion of the author and Jolly Tots is not liable for any misinformation. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by the Jolly Tots team remains with M&S Publishing Ltd. Nothing in Jolly Tots or online at Jollytotsmagazine.co.uk may be reprinted or reproduced without written permission from the team at M&S Publishing Ltd.

21 JOLLY TOTS / SUMMER 2015 3

Baby

0 -18 months

5 truths

No oNe waNts to tell expectaNt pareNts Just how hard and lonely it can be, even if you’ve already had a baby! You are suddenly solely responsible for this amazing human being who doesn’t come with a manual and changes daily.

Add any older children who also want your time and attention and it can feel like you never have a moment to yourself!

The number of choices you’ll 2 make for your child from how long you let them sleeping, how often you feed them, baby wearing and weaning, to all the many baby-friendly classes you may do.

The key to remember is it’s your choice and what works for

1

someone might not work for you and what works for your first born, might not work for subsequent.

Your viewing habits will 3 change. You’ll know who Mr Tumble is and all the characters from Thomas the Tank Engine. The news will be replaced by Peppa Pig and you’ll find a love for box sets.

Yes it’s hard having a family, 4 yes it’s hard work being constantly ‘on-call’ but you will find that the times of affection and overwhelming love, or the many hilarious sketch-show moments, make it all worthwhile. It will be chaotic and utter madness at

times, but you won’t want to change a thing!

All your relationships will 5 change. Your pre-baby friends adjust to you having a baby, you meet new friends, you may even make friends with someone in the supermarket!!

Bex Heywood is owner of Birth Beginnings and provider of MummyNatal classes in Huntingdon and Peterborough. www.birthbeginnings.co.uk

Milk Banks

New life-saviNg research for expectaNt mums A GROUND-BREAKING blood test for expectant mothers could predict the likelihood of early labour. Around 60,000 babies are born prematurely in the UK each year, of which about 1,300 tragically die, sadly making it the biggest killer of babies in the UK. Those who do survive are at greater risk of developing lifelong conditions such as blindness, cerebral palsy and learning difficulties.

Dr Joanna Cook, of the Imperial College London, funded by an Action Medical Research Training Fellowship grant, is currently creating a test to identify expectant mothers who are at risk so they

can be monitored and offered preventative treatment.

“Frustratingly, we don’t yet fully understand why some women go into labour too early and are therefore often unable to stop it happening,” says Dr Cook. “It is about preventing prematurity by testing all women and not just those already known to be at risk.” Dr Cook delivered her son, Samuel, at 30 weeks pregnant and as a doctor has witnessed the distress, and sometimes tragedy premature birth causes. The charity cannot confirm a timeframe for completion of the research yet. www.action.org.uk

Are you an established breastfeeder with a baby less than six months old? You could help new mums struggling to produce, unwell or premature newborns by donating your expressed breast milk. There are 12 milk banks across the UK, with our nearest one being The Rosie Hospital in Cambridge. For details on donating, visit: www.ukamb.org

what is actioN medical research?

Action Medical Research is a leading UK-wide charity working to save and change children’s lives through medical research. It believes that the diseases that devastate the lives of so many children can be beaten. It has been funding medical breakthroughs since it began in 1952, such as the first polio vaccines in the UK, ultrasound in pregnancy and the rubella vaccine – helping to save thousands of children’s lives and change many more.

Jolly ToTs / summer 2015 5

Early learning

MUSIC BY NUMBERS MOST CHILDREN LOVE TO SING AND DANCE, THEIR UNBRIDLED SPIRIT CONNECTS WITH MUSIC ON AN INSTINCTUAL LEVEL THAT DWINDLES WITH AGE. KAREN DICKINSON, FOUNDER OF MUSIC FOR LITTLE PEOPLE, EXPLAINS WHY NOW IS THE TIME TO DEVELOP YOUR CHILD’S MUSICAL EAR

M

USIC IS OFTEN cited as being important for nurturing creativity; it’s a channel for the emotions and helps children to develop their ability to use imagination, to listen and observe through art, music, dance and imaginative play. The pre-school years are critical for learning and establishing a strong foundation for later achievement, and music has proven an integral part. I believe all children can be musical, if exposed to musical opportunities. If we do not speak to our children, they will not learn how to talk – if we make music with our children, they will not only learn that it is something we personally value, but also learn skills that will help them throughout their lives.

Playing a variety of music at home, singing action songs and counting songs can all help, but group classes can take it several steps further. Carefully planned music classes, run by a teacher qualified in child development, can introduce your child to the language of music and make significant contributions to other areas of learning such as social development and the building of self-esteem. Here are five reasons to find a class near you…

Learning a wide range of songs is beneficial to language development as children expand their vocabulary when words are

reinforced by simple actions and rhyming words.

Learning to play any instrument with a degree of control develops physical and manipulative skills. It also aid in listening and attention, which is a skill many children lack when going to primary school.

Moving to music in a eurhythmic way, children develop coordination and an awareness of space and others.

Music plays a significant role in teaching an understanding of the world through diverse songs and stories from other cultures.

Children as young as three can grasp mathematical and musical language, for example: ‘crescendo’ is when a sound gets ‘bigger than’; and ‘decrescendo’ is ‘smaller than’.

Children can also become familiar with divisions of a beat when rhythms are introduced.

Karen Dickinson has a Masters degree in Music Education and is the founder of Music For Little People – group music classes for pre-schoolers throughout Cambridgeshire. www.musicforlittlepeople.co.uk

THREE IDEAS TO TRY AT HOME… Finger rhymes and action 1 songs give plenty of opportunity for refining motor

skills and co-ordination.

Use rhymes, songs, stories and counting games to develop math skills and the sequence of numbers.

Music can be used to build story-making skills: Ask your child to create a story suggested by listening to a piece of music or to create a song that tells a story in response to a picture or event.

Similarly, having them colour on a blank sheet of paper while listening to a piece of music has the same benefits.

2 3

JOLLY TOTS / SUMMER 2015 7

Family first

Photo advice

FIVE TIPS FOR TAKING GREAT FAMILY PHOTOS SUMMERTIME CALLS FOR LOTS OUTDOOR FUN AND PLENTY OF CHANCES TO CAPTURE SPECIAL MOMENTS. FOLLOW THESE TIPS AND TRICKS FROM CAMBRIDGESHIRE’S NEW PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP PROVIDER AND TURN YOUR PRECIOUS MEMORIES IN TO LIFELONG KEEPSAKES

1 Avoid harsh light

Most cameras struggle with high-contrast lighting, like you get with a strong summer sun and a clear blue sky – typically the types of days for family outings and picture taking. What you really want to look out for is an overcast day or sun with patchy cloud, so you have open shade to shoot in without worrying about ugly shadows from a high summer sun.

But, if we’re blessed with a gorgeous day, keep an eye open for areas of shade like the edge of woodland, under a tree or parasol for softer lighting. If there is no shade, shoot them with their back to the sun; if you wait until the late afternoon when the sun is softer and lower in the sky, this style of backlighting can be really pretty.

2 Get low

By getting eye level with your child, your image can instantly become more engaging. Focus on the eyes and be ready for that genuine smile. Try chasing after them, playing peek-a-boo behind the camera or holding their favourite toy above your head.

3 Take it indoors

Windows and open doors are brilliant for pictures; they diffuse sunlight, making it gorgeously soft. Open the front or backdoor and encourage your child to stand or sit a few feet within the doorway while you shot them from outside.

Similarly, look for natural light like french doors or large windows you can encourage them to play near, giving you the perfect area to capture your relaxed candids.

4 Learn your camera

These days cameras, even smartphones, can take a decent shot with little help from you. But if you want more than a visual record, you have to take it off Auto.

Start with aperture-priority mode

and learn about shutter speeds, ISOs and apertures, and how to blur backgrounds so you can make the most of any situation. For one-to-one tuition, contact Bluebird Photography Workshops for parents (see below for details.)

5 Make it fun!

It sounds obvious, but it’s crucial. Unless you want albums full of forced ‘cheese’ smiles, your best bet is to spend time playing with them while slotting in a few sneaky shots. Let them eat ice cream, run around or play football; if they’re enjoying themselves, the smiles will come naturally and all you need to do is have the lens cap off and finger on the shutter ready to capture the moments.

Bluebird Photography Workshops, run by Caroline Ann Photography, offer one-to-one tuition for parents looking to improve their picture-taking skills. Caroline is Contributing Editor to Digital SLR Photography magazine, which specialises in delivering easy-to-understand technique and technical advice to all levels of photographer, no matter their camera. Contact us today to take your best-ever family photos: 0770 3274439 /carolineannphotography.co.uk JOLLY TOTS / SUMMER 2015 9

Learn as you go

For all ages

Playtime BATTLE BOREDOM WITH THESE STAY-AT-HOME ACTIVITIES AND IDEAS THAT SUBTLY TEACH CORE SKILLS THROUGH PLAY

Toddlers: Hide & seek

Pre-schoolers: Good vibrations

It’s a classic game that offers great potential to teach counting to toddlers and counting down for 4+. Also try hiding small toys for your child to find.

For pre-schoolers, draw them a map too with Xs marking the spots.

Here’s a great excuse to crank up the tunes! Stretch cellophane over a bowl and seal it tightly. Put the bowl on top of a plate and set it next to a stereo. Place rice, bits of tissue paper or ribbon on the bowl and watch them dance.

TOY OF THE SEASON

3-IN-1 BOOK, PLAY MAT AND SIT-IN TOY (£13.49)

T

HE ULTIMATE INTERACTIVE book for children aged 3+, this multi-functional book folds out in to an illustrated story route and play mat, then folds up into a tractor to sit in. While it’s designed for age 3+, kids as young as 18 months are known to enjoy its versatility. With simple text that’s easy to follow and a bright illustrated route, the convertible tractor encourages reading and independent play. The concertina layout adds fun to building literacy skills as they can use their toys to act out the story, while the exciting transformation in to a tractor builds imagination through role play. The joints of the tractor are held together with heavy-duty fabric and Velcro, which allows for flexibility but withstands considerable use. For less than £15, it provide lots of developmental fun and value for money. We reviewed the tractor, but there’s also a train, pirate ship, pink car and princess carriage available, to name a few. www.mileskelly.net

Things to do before they’re five Hunt for bugs Plant it, grow it, eat it Teddy bear’s picnic Make a mud pie Build a den

WHAT TO DO IN THE RAIN? We asked what you do on those inevitable rainy days... ❝Any of the Cambridge museums, making a den behind the sofa with sheets and the Imperial War Museum at Duxford ❞ Selina, from St Ives ❝Softplay all the way or puddle jumping! It’s what wellies and waterproofs were made for❞ Brenda, from Papworth Everard ❝We sing a lot of songs, read books and open up the playdough ❞ Gaby, from St Neots ❝My four-year-old likes to watch me sew. She can’t reach the pedals but she likes to feed the fabric through the machine❞ Rochelle, from Peterborough JOLLY TOTS / SUMMER 2015 11

Review

LITTLE PINS

WITH NEW SESSIONS ON ITS SUMMER ROSTER, WE FOUND OUT JUST HOW MUCH LITTLE PINS IS UP OUR ALLEY...

T

ENPIN BOWLING sessions for toddlers and pre-schoolers – why has no bowling alley offered it before! It’s a genius idea, right?

And we’re lucky enough to have it on our doorstep. Held within Basement Lanes at One Leisure St Ives, the bowling alley boasts five lanes and dedicates 90 minutes to parents with two to five year olds on Wednesdays (11.30am) and Friday (10am), for a bargain price of £3.50 inc a free tea/coffee. During the summer holiday, there will also be a session every Sunday 4pm–5.30pm for even more fantastic family fun.

The bowling session comes with child-friendly music, bowling shoes for those little ones who want to try them, lightweight bowling balls, bumpers and ramps. It sounds like it’s the perfect recipe for a morning of fun, but how age-appropriate is it really? We took a group of mums and their toddlers to trial the session and find out their thoughts:

Caroline Schmidt Mum of two-year-old AJ

“I was not sure what to expect from Little Pins, to be honest, especially with a bunch of two year olds. I had visions of chaos: spending the session running up and down the lanes after the tots or making a trip to A&E because one of them dropped a bowling ball on themselves. I couldn’t have been more wrong. The balls were light enough for most two year olds to carry, the atmosphere was kiddie friendly and they even had their own bowling shoes. I was amazed at how capable they all were, too.

They loved every minute and for £3.50 it’s the price of a coffee out, which you get free!

Nancy Brown mum of two-year-old Albie “I was amazed at how much fun they had, and how involved they could be. I thought the children-friendly music, special shoes (Albie’s still talking about them!) and cafe just next door was perfect. My experience of bowling alleys is they can be very fussy, but we felt so welcome. I know my husband would love to come along too, so I’m

excited about the new weekend session, but even without him I am confident I will go again. It was very reasonably priced and great rainy-day entertainment.”

Donna McGrory mum of two-year-old Joshua

“It was great fun, very family friendly (eg cafe, baby change, lane bumpers etc) and helpful staff. The kids probably need slightly lighter balls if possible and the ramp is a bit high for two year olds. But would go again and Josh loved it.”

Danielle Parkin mum of two-year-old Harry

“We felt very relaxed in the bowling alley, the staff didn’t seem to mind the slight chaos of toddlers enjoying themselves.”

Book today!

You can book your session up to two weeks in advance but you can also try your luck by turning up on the day. Enquire about their birthday parties, too, if your little ones has a birthday soon. www.basementlanes.co.uk JOLLY TOTS / SUMMER 2015 X

Family fun

Summer events

Summer activities PUT THESE DATES IN YOUR DIARY FOR SUREFIRE FUN The Big Weekend

10 -12 July (11 July Family fun day) All weekend there’s events in Parker’s Piece, Cambridge, including live music, but Saturday is the gem with a science Fun Lab face painting, storytelling, crafts, fairground rides and much more..

Flying Legends Air Show

11 & 12 July, 2pm - 5.30pm It’s a show that’s famous the world over featuring rare combinations and remarkable flying displays at the Imperial War Museum, in Duxford. Get ready for lots of ‘wows’ and finger pointing. www.flyinglegends.com

Beach at Brampton, Frost Garden Centre From Saturday 18 July The indoor beach is back and bigger than ever! You can enjoy it for free everyday of the summer holidays, but there are a few Wednesday events worth noting: 22 July Paint a gnome and take it home; 29 July T-Shirt painting; 14 & 28 Aug (2pm) An hour of messy and creative crafts; 19 Aug Colour in a fairy or dinosaur mask and make wings or dino magnets.

Family behind-the-scenes tour at Wood Green Tues 28 July & Tues 25 Aug, 10am-12pm & 1-3pm Meet and feed the animals and get hands on making fun pet toys at the animal shelter in Godmanchester. Ideal for ages 5+.

Call 0844 248 8181 to book.

Fri 31 July & 21 Aug, 10am - 3pm: There’s also free family drop-in days suitable for all ages to learn about pets, to make toys, enjoy storytime and meet small animals.

14 JOLLY TOTS / SUMMER 2015

Peterborough Paddington

Thursday 30 July, 12pm - 4.30pm Little ones are invited to listen to the tales of Paddington (hourly sessions) and have a go at the Paddington Treasure Hunt at Queensgate Shopping Centre.

Fun at Ferry Meadows Country Park

18 July - 1 Sept, Summer Trail: Hunt for clues as you walk around the meadows. 19 July & 10 Aug 10-12pm, Minibeast Safari. Every Weds 2 July -26 Aug Wild Wednesdays, enjoy seasonal and wild crafts. 27 July & 16 Aug 10.30-12pm, Pond Dipping: Discover what lies beneath the water of the lakes. 13 Aug, 11 - 12.30pm, Going on a Bear Hunt: Bring your teddy bear on an adventure, £5. 17 - 21 Aug and 24 - 28 Aug, Nature Kids: Naturebased activities 10 - 12am, £2.

Crafty Tuesday at Houghton Mill and Waterclose Meadows

Every Tuesday in August at 1pm, children make a different craft from dream catchers to snakes and ladders.

Sacrewell

From 11 July – 6 September Sacrewell has fun family events lined up for everyday of the summer. Check out their website for an up-to-date schedule. www.sacrewell.org.uk

The sun has got its hat on!

It may be fleeting but the UK’s sun can still be strong. Here’s some advice for staying safe in the sun: 1) Children up to six months old should not be exposed to direct sunlight as they have low levels of melanin in their skin, offering little protection, so keep them in shade.

2) Reapply a broad spectrum (UVA and UVB) sunscreen of at least SPF 30 every couple of hours to children older than six months.

Opt for a mineral-based sunscreen, containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, as it’s not absorbed by the skin like chemical-based suncreams.

3) Cover up all children with a T-shirt and hat, ideally with a brim four inches wide to protect their head and neck. Pair with a set of shades for a super cute look and added protection.

4) Spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm, when the sun is at its strongest.

5) Look out for signs of too much sun such as red skin, dehydration, a fever and fitting.

For more advice on summer safety, read what the www.nhs. uk/Livewell/Summerhealth/ Pages/Childsafety

Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve

From minibeast hunts and den building, to wild arts and crafts and teddy bear’s picnics there’s event for young children held throughout the summer.

REMEMBER TO CHECK YOU LOCAL CHILDREN’S CENTRE AND BABY CLASSES/PLAYGROUPS TO SEE IF THEY’RE OPEN OVER THE SUMMER.

Family fun

BIG DA DAY AYS YS OUT SUMMER FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Not to miss shows...

Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom

Churchill Theatre, Bromley: 25 & 26 July New Wimbledon Theatre: 11 & 12 Aug Milton Keynes Theatre: 15 & 16 Aug

Shrek the Musical

Milton Keynes Theatre: 18 Aug – 6 September

Family days out Hamerton Zoo

A quaint enjoyable and affordable zoo with a large outdoor play area and an array of animals including meerkats, chimps and white tigers. www.hamertonzoopark.com

Houghton Mill & Waterclose Meadows

Visit a working mill, have a go at making flour and take a stroll along the meadow walk and river searching for dragonflies, newts and ducks. www.nationaltrust.org

Shepreth Wildlife Park

Home to an eclectic mix of animals and tropical creepy crawlies, the park has two indoor play areas,

Try further afield Drayton Manor Theme Park and Thomas Land, Staffordshire Whipsnade Zoo and its new butterfly centre, Bedfordshire Bekonscot Model Village & Railway, Beaconsfield Paradise Wildlife Park, Stevenage Willows Farm Village and Farm Park, London Colney

16 JOLLY TOTS / SUMMER 2015

an outdoor play area and a small train. There’s also the adjacent Waterworld & Bug City. www.sheprethwildlifepark.co.uk

Wimpole Hall

Enjoy the vibrant gardens, play yard and the Home Farm with all the usual suspects: pigs, sheep and and horses – don’t miss feeding time and check the website for up-and-coming events. www.nationaltrust.org

WIN family tickets to watch My Pet Monster & Me Burgess Hall, One Leisure St Ives Sunday 16 August: 11am & 2pm Little monsters (and their grown-ups) will love this funny, heartwarming tale of true friendship about a little girl and her fury friend, performed by the Blunderbus Theatre Company.

Email your contact details to competitions@jollytotsmagazine.co.uk for a chance to win by 1st August. (see page 17 for more details).

Hitchin Lavender

Introduce them to the beauty and scent of these vast rows of seasonal flowers. Take your camera and watch out for the bees.

Through 12-16 August, the venue is also host to sundown cinema showcasing films outdoors. www.hitchinlavender.co.uk

Happy campers

Want to give your kids a taste of camping without travelling far?

Take them to Sacrewell. For as little as £11 per adult, you can gain entry to the farm and camp overnight. www.sacrewell.org.uk

Butterfly World

Learn about the lifecycle of the butterfly, handle insects and enjoy lots of activities, like face painting. www.butterflyworldproject.com

Skylark Maize Maze & Fun Yard

Opens 18th July, the awardwinning cornfield maze is guaranteed to exhaust and enthuse your little ones. Plan a day to enjoy the maze and giant fun yard – there’s pig racing, farmyard animals, a giant sandpit and mini-diggers, a bouncy castle and go-karts! www.skylarkmaizemaze.co.uk

PICK YOUR OWN BERRIES They’re likely to eat their bodyweight in berries if you go picking, but it’s worth it for a fabulous day out. It’s the season for scrummy strawberries and the perfect time to stock up on fruits for jams, baking and to begin your homemade fruit-infused alcohols for Christmas. Of course you can go in search for wild brambles, but Pick Your Own farms offer easy access and variety, but remember your own tubs to save a few pounds. Check out Hill Farm in Peterborough, Chaplans Farm in Cambridge and Graveley Fruit Farms in Hitchin. www.pickyourownfarms.org.uk

advertising feature

Birthdays are a time to monkey around!

Planning a party? Take the hassle out of your hullabaloo at Crafty Monkey

I

F YOU’RE A PARENT, you’ll no doubt have heard about or enjoyed being a guest at a Crafty Monkey birthday party! For those of you who haven’t been lucky enough to experience one of our fantastic parties – pick up the phone and book the ultimate treat for your tot’s celebration!

The great thing about hosting your party at Crafty Monkey is that your only job is to send out the invitations (which we provide) and turn up on the day… we’ve got everything else covered.

From the moment your little one’s party begins, there will be wall-to-wall smiles as they get stuck into the activities of whichever theme you chose as the order of the day. We’ve certainly never met a tot who doesn’t love to choose and stuff their own animal at one of our exciting build a bear parties. The children get to take home their teddy in a little bag, complete with a birth certificate and dressed in a little t-shirt of their own design, so no need for party bags!

Our party options don’t stop at Build a Bear though: we’ve got plenty to choose from that caters to children (and grown- ups!) of all ages. If your child

fancies getting their hands messy, then take a look at our pottery painting, foam clay and decoupage parties on our website. We can also provide food on request, so if all that you need to do is bring along the birthday cake! It’s that simple.

Give us a call or pop by the studio to discuss your requirements and to book your child’s party – we promise that it’ll be a birthday treat that they won’t forget in a hurry!

For more details, contact us on 01480 219222, visit our website at www.mycraftymonkey.com or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/mycraftymonkey.

We look forward to celebrating with you soon!

Gett craft crafty!

Suncatcher Cra r ft ra AS RAINY DAYS COME AS OFTEN AS THE SUNNIER ONES DURING A UK SUMMER, THIS CRAFT LETS YOU ENJOY BOTH. FILL AN AFTERNOON WITH PAINTING AND STICKING, THEN LET THEM ENJOY THEIR MASTERPIECES TWINKLING IN THE SUN

1

Paint paper plates (two for each suncatcher you’re making). You’ll need to cut out the centre of the plates and you may want to do this before or after your child has decorated them. Under 3s may find it easier to paint the whole plate, rather than the rim.

For children as young as 12 months, have them stick tissue paper on to sticky-back plastic.

Once they’ve finished, seal their creation with another sheet of sticky-back plastic over the top.

For older children, who can use a glue stick, set them up to apply PVA glue to cellophane that they can then stick their glitter and sequins to. Seal with another sheet of cellophane on top.

Depending on how much PVA they use, it may take a few hours/ days for the glue to dry clear.

Stick the decorated plates together, with the plastic sheet or cellophane between them and trim to fit. Cut a hole at the top of the suncatchers and hang by a bright window to enjoy.

Loads more ideas to try...

Visit our Pinterest page @jtots for more crafty ideas and www.jollytotsmagazine.co.uk for fun tutorials

2 3

4

JOLLY TOTS / SUMMER 2015

19

Weaning checklist

Healthy living

When your baby starts to show signs that they’re interested in food, it’s a daunting milestone for you both. Do they have allergies, should you puree or do baby-led weaning – all questions we ask ourselves before diving in. If you do go the baby-led weaning route, eating out or picnicking is a messy nightmare, but we have three recipes that are finger friendly.

Food to stock up on: Pasta twirls or shells, rice, soft ripe fruit like bananas, peach, broccoli, baby porridge, vegetables for pureeing or holding like soft-cooked carrot sticks and sweet potato.

Foods to avoid under 12 months: Honey, salt, mould-ripened soft cheese, high-mercury fish like shark, swordfish and marlin, goat/sheep milk.

Banana picnic pancakes

YOU’LL NEED: One banana, 1 egg, 1 tbsp of flour WHAT TO DO: Mash, mix, dollop, fry & serve Broccoli & cheese muffins

YOU’LL NEED: 1 small to medium head of broccoli, 350ml plain yogurt, 1 egg, 70g cheese, 225g self-raising flour, 50ml whole milk, 50ml oil.

WHAT TO DO: Preheat the oven to 200°C and steam the broccoli. Mix with the yogurt, oil, milk and egg in with the broccoli that you’ve chopped finely and crumble in cheese. Fold in the flour and add a touch more milk if it’s too dry. Divide into a muffin tin and bake for 15 minutes.

Homemade hummus with breadsticks

YOU’LL NEED: 1 can of chickpeas (no salt), ¼ teaspoon, bicarbonate soda, 1 clove of garlic, 1 lemons, 3tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 2tsp Tahini (sesame seed paste) and a pinch of paprika.

WHAT TO DO: Blend & dip.

Family Favourite A posh mAcAroni cheese pAcked with tAsty nutrients thAt the whole fAmily will enjoy What you’ll need...

2 onions Cooking oil (sunflower/olive) 200g macaroni 4 pork & herb sausages 300g spinach 250ml double cream 1 tablespoon mustard 50g cheddar cheese

Recipe box This tried-and-tested recipe from Riverford Foods comes from their new Recipe Box. Get ingredients delivered to your door with this tasty, convenient service. www.riverford.co.uk

What to do...

1) Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan assisted/ gas mark 4.

Put a large pan of salted water on to boil. Peel and slice the onions and cook them gently in the frying pan with a little oil for 10 minutes until soft and sweet.

2) Meanwhile, pop the macaroni in the water and boil for 10 minutes or until tender. Remove from the water with a slotted spoon and drain in the colander, keeping the water in the pan.

3) Cut open the sausages and remove the meat from the skin.

Break it into rough chucks and add to the onions. Turn the heat up and fry until both the onions and sausages are golden with moreish caramelised edges. Keep to one side.

4) Wash the spinach and strip the leaves away from any large and tough-looking stalks. If you have an eagle-eyed veggie hater in your family, shred the spinach in to thin strips to increase your chances of getting this power leaf past them.

Cook the spinach in the remaining pasta water for about 30 second until wilted, remove and cool in cold water. Drain the spinach and squeeze out as much water as you can with your hands to avoid a watery end product. If you didn’t shred, spread the spinach on a chopping board and chop it roughly.

5) Put the sausages and onion back on the heat and add the cream and mustard, bring to a simmer. Add the pasta and spinach to the oven dish. Scrape in the sausage mix and stir it all together thoroughly. Sprinkle over the cheese and bake in the over for 20 minutes. jolly tots / summer 2015 21

What’s on in your area from baby and Toddler classes To wildlife and sofT play cenTres, we have iT all...

Pregnancy & Infants NCT For breastfeeding counsellors, call 01733 452610.

The Baby Café Breastfeeding drop-in groups in Peterborough.

Visit www.thebabycafe.org to find your local centre.

NCT Bumps and Babies For pregnant parents and babies up to one year. Coffee, tea, chat, play, postnatal and breastfeeding support.

- Peterborough: Mons 1pm-2.30pm.

Tesco community room at Serpentine Green Shopping Centre.

- St Neots: Thurs 10am-12pm, Eatons Children’s Centre.

MamaBabyBliss & Toddler Yoga Pregnancy & baby yoga, relaxation and baby massage. Toddler Yoga for 1-3 year olds: Thurs 10am -11am in St Neots. Call Joanna: 07904 374212 for more details and other classes.

Not just baby massage At-home one-to-one massage tutition for parents with babies 6 weeks to sitting. Contact Donna: 01733247129/07860875097 Mummy Natal A six-week course for mums-to-be that includes birth ball exercises, meditation and breathing techniques in Huntingdon and Peterborough. Contact 07815 810430 /bex@birthbeginnings.co.uk Pregnancy yoga Hatha Yoga classes for mums to be. Wed 6-7pm at Longsands Academy, St Neots.

Contact: lindatongue@yahoo.co.uk Mantenatal Dads-only antenatal workshops. A chance to explore pregnancy, birth and early parenting. www.mantenatal.com BabyBliss Courses for infant massage, baby/toddler yoga, baby & child swimming and First Aid within the Huntingdon /Peterborough area. www.mybabybliss.info

22 Jolly ToTs / summer 2015

Daisy Birthing Keep the pregnant body healthy and strong through yoga, breathe work and selfhypnosis. For course dates contact One Leisure St Ives 01480 388500, One Leisure Huntingdon 01480 388600. Visit: www.oneleisure.net

Peterborough (0800 29 89 121) Cambridgeshire (0345 04 54 014) www.familiesandchildcare.org.uk

Yoga 4 Pregnancy Wed 7pm – 8.30pm. Oak Tree Centre, Huntingdon PE29 7HN. Call: Barbara Moorby 01480 380307. www.yoga4everybody.co.uk

Minilinguals Learn Spanish with your toddler through music, movement and rhyme. For 0 -5yrs in St Neots. Contact Vicky: 07979 503269 / hello@minilinguals.co.uk/ www.littlelanguagelearners.com

Memory Keepers Caroline Ann Photography Relaxed newborn, children and family photography in your home.

First-Year, Cake Smashes and Mum & Me packages. 07703274439/ www. carolineannphotography.co.uk Canuck Castings Handmade children’s hand & foot or parent & child sculptures. Call Mark 07933 824763/www.facebook.com/ canuckcastings In Craft Corner Bespoke memory quilts, personalised babygros and other items. incraftcorner.co.uk

Support Services Sleep Baby Sleep Night nanny and sleep consultant covering East Anglia. 07933 743841/ www.sleepbabysleep.co.uk Sleep Fairies Offers maternity nurses, night nannies, sleep trainers and breastfeeding consultants. www.sleepfairies.co.uk Cracker Jacks Nursery and out-of- school club. 3 Foundry Way, Eaton Socon, St. Neots.

Call 01480 477515 Families and Childcare Information Services Local childcare information

Useful resources: www.sitters. co.uk and www.childcare.co.uk

Educational Development

Tiny Talk Whaddon, Cambourne, Histon & Brampton. Baby signing & singing classes for babies and young toddlers. Call: Carol 0795 1601107 / carols@tinytalk.co.uk Sing and Sign St. Neots. For 6 18mths. Thursdays. Learn to communicate with your baby or toddler pre-speech. Call Julie Warriner for details 01767 691488.

Happy Faces 16 Lincoln Road, Glinton, Peterborough. Monthly fee.

Organised educational play sessions for 8mths - 5yrs for 1hr 15mins Monday to Friday. Call Claire 01733 324851 / 07714276901. www.clairehappyfaces.co.uk

Music & Singing Groups 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 Clap & Sing / Parachute Play The Rainbow Children’s Centre, Somersham. For 0-5yrs. 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).

Encore Concerts St. Mary’s Church, Eaton Socon.

Every third Thursday of the month.

These classical concerts are perfect or all ages but are aimed at babies to pre-school. Adults £5, children free.

Refreshments included. Contact info@encoreconcerts.co.uk / facebook.com/encoreconcerts Warboys Clap and Sing 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.

Wiggle Waggle Lively, fun and educational music, dance and fitness programme for ages 0-5yrs. Build confidence, self-esteem and fitness.

Huntingdon, Godmanchester, Hamptons area of Peterborough, St Neots. Call Sharon for details: 01480 382103/wigglewaggleonline.com Singing Beans Singing with instruments, puppets, props, bubbles and more. Suitable for 0 – 5yrs.

Monday 10-11am, St Mary’s Parish Hall, Huntingdon. £2 per child. Dropin sessions. Natalie: 07870249129 www.littlebeansworld.com Contact your local Children’s Centres for low-cost/free play, sensory, music & dance sessions.

Get Active! (All ages) Jazzercise Pulse-pounding, beat-pumping fitness programme.

Find your local class at www. jazzercise.co.uk. Quote Jolly Tots to get a discount.

Dribblers Football School - One Leisure St Ives, Westwood Road. For ages 2+ years.

01480 388500.

- One Leisure Sawtry, Green End Road, Sawtry PE28 5UY. For ages 3 - 5 yrs. 01480 387800.

- One Leisure St Neots, Barford Road, Eynesbury, St Neots. For ages 3 – 4 yrs. 01480 388700.

Gearo’s Soccor Tots Sunday morning football for 2-5yrs, 10am-11am, at Hinchingbrooke Country Park. £4 Little Kickers Various age-related football

coaching sessions available in near Cambridge and in Peterborough for 18mths – 5yrs. Give your children a positive introduction to sport. www.littlekickers.co.uk Tiny Tykes Peterborough.

Six-week football coaching courses for 18m – 5yrs. Call 07944889321 / www.tinytykes.co.uk Little Scrummers Peterborough & Cambridge. Various Saturday morning rugby sessions for 2yrs – 6yrs. Call 07738591232 www.littlescrummers.com Balanceability Introduction to cycling in a safe environment. Develop cycling skills, balance, co-ordination, agility and flexibility in a six-week accredited programme for 2½ to 4yrs Runs at One Leisure St Ives (01480 388500) and Cambourne Fitness and Sports Centre, CB23 6FY (01954 714070).

Tumble Tots & Gymbabes For 6mths - 7 yrs. For St Neots & Huntingdon, contact Cheryl 07871 946695; Peterborough: Amanda (01832 272127);St. Ives Karen (01353 661255) www.tumbletots.com Baby Gym Huntingdon Gymnastics Club, Claytons Way PE29 1UT. Class for 8wks old walking, 10.50am - 11.35am; baby walking – 2yrs, Fri 10am -10.45am; £3, term-time only. 01480 523 43. www.huntingdon-gymnastics.org Ice Tots Planet Ice 1 Mallard Road, Peterborough, PE3 8YN. Supervised skating sessions for 18mths - 5yrs with qualified coach. Pay £4.50 for first child, second child £1.50. Sun 10am-11am.

Call 01733 260222 / planet-ice.co.uk Roller Skating @ One Leisure Get your skates on to One Leisure.

Fun roller skating sessions for all the family every Sunday and also during the school holidays. Available at One Leisure St Ives (01480 388500) and One Leisure St Neots (01480 388700). www.oneleisure.net Little Pins @ Basement Lanes Social 1½-hour tenpin bowling for parents and under 5’s on

Wednesdays and Fridays. One Leisure St Ives, Westwood Road, St Ives PE27 6WU. Call 01480 388500 to book. www.basementlanes.co.uk Evolution Taekwondo Martial Arts Academy, Unit 4, Wainman Road, Peterborough PE2 7BU. Classes from age 4. Call for more info (01733 235230) or email: info@evolutiontkd.co.uk Little Ninja’s (Hicks Karate) Loxley Community Centre, Loxley, 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 First Strokes Godmanchester Community Pool, Park Lane, Huntingdon. Family swimming and lessons. www.firststrokes.com Baby & 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 for general swimming for children under 8yrs with parents. Lessons for over 5’s.

Call 01480 862276/ www.kimbolton.cambs.sch.uk Water Babies Teach your baby to swim at classes in Buckden, Colne, Cambridge and Wellingborough. From Newborn.

Call Debi Hogston 01933 651790/ www.waterbabies.co.uk

Dance & Drama (18m-5yrs) Stageworks Studios Infant & Early Year Dance in St Neots and Buckden: Tues, Thurs, Fri and Saturday. Call 01480 812626 Jolly ToTs / summer 2015 23

www.stageworksstudio.co.uk Kiernan Theatre Academy Huntingdon weekly drama lessons, youth theatre, holiday workshops, after school clubs for those aged 3+. www.kiernantheatreacademy.com Stagecoach Theatre Arts School For age 4+. Learn to act, sing and dance. For Huntingdon classes contact: Jo (01353 667442) and Peterborough: 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.

Dance Studio The Cresset, Rightwell, Bretton, Peterborough PE3 8DX. Classes for age 2+. Babies Ballet age 3+; Modern and tap age 4+. 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 fromage 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 Peterborough Academy of Dance Various classes for 3+ . 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. www.saldance.co.uk / info@saldance.co.uk Tu Danse Studios Peterborough dance & movement classes for age 2 yrs+ including Mummy & Me sessions.Contact: Anita 01733 553830/www.tudanse.co.uk

24 Jolly ToTs / summer 2015

Wendy Burke School of Dance Hartford, Huntingdon and Sawtry.

Ballet classes. For age 3yrs +.

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

Family Days Out Hamerton Zoo Park Nr Sawtry, Huntingdon PE28 5REWildlife park and adventure playground. Open daily. www.hamertonzoopark.com Sacrewell Peterborough, PE8 6HJ. From £5.50 Activity barns, tractor rides and shire horses, Sacrewell has lots to entertain and inform your little ones all year round. www.sacrewell.org.uk Pigeons Farm Wisbech Road, Peterborough, PE6 0TD. Many breeds of farm animals and birds, large play area, restaurant and shop.

Open all year. For more details call 01733 271020 or 01733 271414, visit: www.pigeonsfarm.co.uk Shepreth Wildlife Park Station Road, Shepreth, SG8 6PZ. Adventure playground and soft playroom for under 5yrs. Open 10am - 5pm. Call 01763 262226 / 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 Oasis Beach Pool Aquapark in Bedford, MK42 OBZ. Features flumes, rapid river and an area for babies and toddlers. Under 3s free, kids and adults £4.50 - £7.

Wood Green The Animal Charity King’s Bush Farm, 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 National Trust properties Run, ride and have family fun in these glorious heritage and nature centres.

There’s Ramsey Abbey Gatehouse,

Wimpole Estate’s home farm, Houghton Mill (see below) and Anglesey Abbey, Gardens and Lode Mill. www.nationaltrust.org.uk Houghton Mill Houghton, Huntingdon PE28 2AZ. See a working mill in action, with lots of hands on fun. Beautiful grounds and boat rides. Ideal for a family day out. www.nationaltrust.orgukeatres Burgess Hall Westwood Road, St Ives PE27 6WU .

Productions, events and discos for children throughout the year. Box Office: 01480 388500 or visit: www.burgesshall.net 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. (01733 265705) www.cresset.co.uk

Soft Play/Adventure Centres Flutterbyz Funbarn A short drive from Huntingdon, in Fenstanton is this brilliant softplay facility with baby and toddler areas.

The centre is suitable for children up to 11 years old. Specialises in parties for ages 1 to 8. Tues - Sat 10am 5pm and Sun 10am - 4pm. Costs £2.50 - £4.50. Call 01480 493394 www.flutterbyz.co.uk Jungle Jims Playland 5 Tyne Road, Sandy, Beds, SG19 1SA. Indoor adventure play, separate area for under 3’s. Open Tue – Sunday.

Fantastic Jungle Parties starting from £7.95. (01767 682808) www.junglejimsplayland.co.uk Leo’s Funzone Indoor adventure play centre for babies, toddlers and children. A great venue for children’s parties.Free entry for adults and discounted entry for children under 1. Open 7 days a week. Call: 01480 388600/ visit: www.leosfunzone.co.uk - One Leisure Huntingdon: St Peter’s Road, Huntingdon

- One Leisure St Neots: Barford Road, St. Neots Sacrewell Play Barn Sacrewell, Peterborough PE8 6HJ. New giant softplay area for 0-12yrs.

Open 7 days a week, 10am - 4pm.

Call 01780 782254/www.sacrewell. org.uk/playbarn Activity World Padholme Road East, Peterborough, PE1 5XH. Indoor play with 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 3 months to 11 yrs old or max height of 4 ft 11 inches. Open 9.30am – 6pm (term time), Sat 10am - 6pm, Sun 10am – 5pm. Birthday parties. Call 01733 390810/ www.bigsky.co.uk Eat ‘n’ Play Huntingdon Road, St. Neots PE19 1XG. Large play area (max height 1.45m/4’9”) with separate toddler area. Open 11am daily. Cost: £3.75.

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

Entertainers/Parties Colin Daines MMC Magic and balloon modelling.

Member of the magic circle. Family occasions a speciality (01480 212571) Crafty Monkey Moores Walk, St Neots or Mobile. Offers Pottery Painting, build a bear & jewellery making. Call 01480 219222/ craftymonkeypotterypainting.com Kreepie Krawlies Soft Play A soft play party hire in the Cambs area. Call 07447 582457 / 01763 209 174 /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 Party Time! Fun entertainment and themed parties for all ages such as Knights & Princesses and Pirates & Fairies. Call: Trisha 01487 741456 www.partytime.uk.com

Baby & Toddler Groups Westwood & Ravensthorpe Children’s Centre Family support and fun activities. Based at Highlees and Ravensthorpe Primary School, Peterborough. Call 01733 266425.

Orton Children’s Centre The Jigsaw Centre , Peterborough Support and activity groups for children under 5s. 01933 417438 Honeyhill Community and Children’s Centre Support and free classes for expectant mums & 0-5yrs. Paston, Peterborough.

Call 01733 577611 Funky Monkeys Farcet Salvation Army Church, Peterborough. For age 0-5yrs. Tues/Thurs 9.30am 11.30am (term times). Cost: £1 per family. Call Beverley: 01733 240130.

Mini Movers. Art, craft, singing and trips for 0-5yrs. Weds 10-11.30am at Kingsgate Community Church, 2 Staplee Way, Peterborough PE1 4YT. £1.50 per family, includes drink/ snack. Call Kim Connor: 01733 311156 via church office.

www.neneparktrust.org.uk Tot Stop Stanground Baptist Church, Chapel Street, Peterborough PE2 8JG. Fri 9:45am-11:45am. Toys, craft activity and singing. A friendly and welcoming group. Call Jane on 01733 310411.

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. Email: mummasand bubbasmeetup@gmail.com 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). £2 per family. Call Natasha: 07547 907303.

Folksworth Toddler Group All welcome from babies to pre-school age at Folksworth Village Hall, Elm Road, Nr Peterborough, PE7 3SX. Thursday 10am - 11.30am. £2 per adult and child, 50p each additional child. £1 per adult with baby under 6 months. Contact Lisa Finch 07961 422156.

Jigsaw Juniors For pre-school age. Toys, books, activities and messy play. Wed 1.30pm-2.45pm.

Orton Children’s Centre, The Jigsaw Centre, Peterborough PE2 5PW Call: 01733 452690.

Ramsey Children’s Centre 25 Great Whyte Ramsey PE26 1HG. Open Mon, Tues & Thurs 9am-5pm, Wed 9am-12.30pm and Fri 9. am-4.30pm. Call (01480 379420) or cambridgeshirechildrenscentres.org.uk

Young Explorers Peterborough Museum. First Thursday of the month 10-11.30am and 1-2pm offers stories, crafts and rhymetime.

01733 864 700 /www.vivacitypeterborough.com/museums

Ramsey Toddler Groups Scout Hut, Ramsey, Free.

Unstructured play for under 5’s to develop their creative side. Soft play: Thurs 9.30am – 11.30am, Messy Play Wed 1pm-2.30pm. General Play: Fri 9.30am – 11.30am term-time only.

Call Sarah Abraham:01487 813279.

Nature Tots Ferry Meadows, Peterborough. Outdoor toddler group with crafts and songs. Second Monday of the month, 10-11.30am.

Booking essential. 01733234193/

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.

Jolly ToTs / summer 2015 25

Little Fishes Stay & Play Tots Grafham Village Hall. Free play, crafts and bible stories. Wed 10-11.30am.

Contact 01480 890033 Chatterbox Toddler Group Memorial Hall, School Lane, Alconbury. Fri 9am - 11am. Juice/hot drinks and biscuits provided.

Call Vicky Brown: 07775 777091.

Poppies Children’s Centre Brampton Primary School, The Green, Brampton, PE28 4RF. MonThurs 9am-12pm (01480 376191) Brampton Baby & Toddler Group Commemoration Hall, Brampton.

For 0-5 yrs, every Mon 9.30am -11.30am (term time). Arts & crafts, role play, singing, floor toys for all ages. Healthy snacks and drinks.

Follow us on Facebook. Only £2.

MOMS Club of Huntingdon Weekly playgroups, park days, outings, crafts, meal swap and a monthly moms night out. For details: www.momsclubofrafalconbury molesworth.weebly.com 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 Busybees Great Staughton Village Hall, PE19 5DG For 0 - 5 yrs. Weds (term-time only) 10.00am - 11.30am.

Fruit and drink for the children, arts & crafts and floor toys. Free.

Call Tracey: 01480 357540 Daffodil Children’s Centre Godmanchester Primary School, Park Lane, Godmanchester, PE29 2AG Open Mon-Fri 9am-3.30pm.

Call 01480 375116 Multiple Births Group Mon 10am - 11.30am (term time) Daffodil Children’s Centre, Godmanchester Community Primary School (01480 375116).

St Mary’s 0-5 Playgroup Comrades Club, 58 Cambridge Street, Godmanchester. PE29 2AY For 0-5 yrs. Every Thursday

26 Jolly ToTs / summer 2015

9:30-11:30 (term time) £2.00 per family. Craft, free play and singing.

Toys for all ages. Drink and biscuits included. Call Stacey (07876191982).

Email: staceyrodger@hotmail.com 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 on 01480 493067.

Colne Toddler Group Colne Community Hall, East Street.

9.30-11.30am Friday during term time. Birth up-to school age. £2.00 per family. Includes refreshments.

Contact Charlotte: 01487 843925.

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.

Roxton Tots Climbing and ride-on toys, craft table, baby area and song time.

Roxton Village Hall. Fri 9.30am11.30am. £2.50 (one adult, one child). 50p per extra adult or child over one. Refreshments included.

Call Andy: 07795431766 or join our closed group on Facebook.

The Eatons Children’s Centre Various sessions, courses and support available for parents/carers and children aged 0-5 years. Mon Thurs 9am - 4pm and Fri 9am - 1pm.

Bushmead Primary School, Eaton Socon, St. Neots PE19 8BT. For more details 01480 358340. Visit: cambridgeshirechildrenscentres.org.uk Who Let the Dads Out St Mary’s Church Eaton Socon. A chance to have some fun with your preschooler, eat some bacon, meet other dads, even read a newspaper!

3rd Saturday of the month at 9am.

Term-time only. Cost £1 per child.

Contact: curate@eatonsocon.org Tiddlers and Toddlers Jubilee Hall, Eaton Socon, St. Neots.

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

St Neots Rural Children’s Centre Little Paxton Primary School, Gordon Road, PE19 6NG. Various session, courses and support available for parents/carers and children aged 0-5 years. Open term time Wednesday and Fridays 9am - 1pm. cambridgeshirechildrenscentre.org.uk Tots Praise St. Neots Parish Church, PE19 2BU. 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month 10.3011.30. Free. Bring your little one to play and take part in a children’s Christian mini service. Term time only. Call Jane on 01480 350137 Butterfly Children’s Centre Various sessions, courses and support for parents/carers and children aged 0-5. Open Tues Thurs 9am -4pm. Winhills School, off Duck Lane, St. Neots PE19 2DX. cambridgeshirechildrenscentres.org.uk Busy Bears Fun Time Newborn - 5 yrs. Wed & Fri 10am-11.30am (term time). The Priory Centre, Priory Lane, St. Neots PE19 2BH. Cost: £2.50 per child, £4 family ticket. 01480 388922.

Mornings One Leisure St Neots.

Relaxed and sociable sessions that 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 For 0 - 4 yrs. Wed 1pm - 2.45pm (term -time only). Free play and refreshments. Berkley Street Methodist Church, Eynesbury, St. Neots PE19 2NB. Call: 01480 474062 email: ellash1705@gmail.com.

Puddleducks Mums n Tots Overhills Primary School, Kimbolton, PE28 0HY. Tues 9am - 11am. £3 per family, includes drink and biscuits.

Contact Mandy 01480 869370.

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

Baby & Me Friday 10am-11.30am.

The Hub, Great Cambourne.

Playtime for 0-2 year olds (older

siblings up to school age welcome) £1.50 per family. www.facebook. com/BabyAndMe.cambourne 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).

Baby Lounge Time for Health, St Ives, hosts group play sessions for babies up to 15mths: Fri 10.45am – 12.00pm; and Baby Lounge Extra for 0 - 2yrs: Fri 3- 4.45 pm. Call: 01480 461411. www.timeforhealth.co.uk Houghton & Wyton 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. £2 per family.

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: 01480 463161.

Needingworth Little Tigers Baby & Toddler Group Needingworth Village Hall, St Ives.

For 0-5 yrs. Mon 10am -11:30am (term time). Call 01480 469294..

Warboys Under 5’s Toddler Group High street, Warboys, PE28 2TA. Newborn – 5 yrs. Fri 1pm – 3pm.

Cost: £1.50 for first child, 50p each additional child. Toys, games and refreshments. Call: (01487 823190)

Storytime/Rhymetimes Bretton District Library The Cresset, Rightwell, Bretton, Peterborough PE3 8DS.Storytime: Thurs 11am -11.30am. Rhymetime: Tues 11 - 11.30am. Story and Rhyme time: Sat 10.30am - 11am.

Cambourne Library Rhymetime and Storytime alternate Fridays from 9.30am -10.00am.

Chatteris Library 2 Furrowfields Road, Chatteris PE16 6DY Storytime, Tues 2:15pm-2:45pm (term-time only), Rhymetime (0-3 yrs), Thurs

10am-11am (term-time only) Dogsthorpe Community Library Central Avenue, Dogsthorpe, Peterborough PE1 4LH. Stories and rhymes: Tues 2.30 - 3pm; Thurs 2.30-3pm and Sat 11-11.30am.

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. Storytime: Thurs 3.30-4pm & Sat 11.30-12pm.

Huntingdon Library Princes Street, Huntingdon PE29 3PH. Storytime: 18mths – 5 yrs, Weds 10.30am –11am. Rhymetime: 0-18m Fri 10 - 10.30am; 18m - 3yrs Fri 11am - 11.30am.

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 11am -11.30am.

Peterborough Central Library Broadway, Peterborough PE1 1RX Storytime: Fri 2.15pm - 2.45pm, Sat 10.30am -11am & 2.15pm - 2.45pm.

Rhyme Time: Thurs 1.30pm-2pm.

Ramsey Library School Lane, Ramsey PE26 1AF. Rhymetime: 0-3yrs. Fri 10.30 - 11am.

Sawtry Library Fen Lane, Sawtry PE28 5TQ. Rhymetime for 0-18m: Weds 10am -10.30am weekly.

Somersham Community Information Centre Church Street Somersham PE28 3EG.For pre-school children. Tues 10.30am11am - stories & rhyme ending with a craft activity every week.

Stanground Community Library Southfields Avenue, Peterborough PE2 8RZ. Storytime: Fri 3.30pm 4pm. Rhymetime Tues 10 -10.30am.

St. Ives Library Station Rd, St. Ives PE27 5BW. Rhymetime for

pre-schoolers Weds 10.00am – 10.30am and 11.15-11.45am.

St. Neots Library Priory Lane, St. Neots PE19 2BH. Rhymetime for 18m - pre-schoolers: Mon 2pm–2.30pm; For 0 - 18mths Fri 10am-10.30 & 11.15- 11.45am.

Thorney Library Church Street, Thorney, Peterborough, PE6 0QB. Story and Rhymetime Mon 2.30pm - 3pm.

Warboys Library High Street, Warboys PE28 2TA. Rhymetime for 18mths - 5yrs Tues 11-11.30am.

Storytime:Thurs 10.30am – 11am.

Werrington District Library Staniland Way, PE4 6JT.Storytime: Tues 2pm – 2.30pm. 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.

Yaxley Library Lansdowne Rd, Yaxley. Storytime: Tues 10.30am– 11am (term time). Rhymetime for 0-18m: Fri 10.30am–11am.

Toy Libraries 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).St. Neots St Neots Children’s Centres Winhills School, 01480 358350 , open Tues – Thurs 9am – 4pm; The Eatons Children’s Centre, Bushmead School, Eaton Socon 01480 358350 Mon -Thurs 9am - 4pm and Fri 9am - 1.00pm; St Neots Rural Children’s Centre; Little Paxton School, open term-time Mon-Fri 9am – 1pm Call: 01480 358350.

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).

Jolly ToTs / summer 2015 27