Kent Family Medway

family

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ay W n e d tI o M dI e

Kent

WINTER 2010

December what’s on

MEDWAY NEWS FOR PARENTS

Rain or Shine days out

WIN family tickets to the panto

free plea se a co take py

Father Christmas IN MEDWAY

Local News

l

What’s On l Maternity

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Parenting l School days

Learning - Parties - Playground - Football - Dreams

Find us oppo site Lark field Leis ure Cen tre

tel: 01622 882218 email: info@yourtinytown.co.uk tweet: @yourtinytown

yourtinytown.co.uk

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Season’s greetings opportunity to boost the High Street and buy locally.

Not only does it keep money in Kent, but small independent shops and businesses maintain the character of our town centres and provide customers with individual service from people who are passionate about what they do.

Wow, where does the time go?

One minute you’re packing them back off to school after the summer hols and then before you know it you’re attending Christmas fairs, nativity plays and wondering what relatives are going where this Christmas.

So season’s greetings to all our readers and a warm welcome to our winter issue of Kent Family magazine.

This time of year is very important to us. We’ve always been strong supporters of local businesses. And Christmas, in particular, is a great

Next issue

deadline 18th feb out 12th March www.kentfamily magazine.co.uk kent family Magazine group

As always, we aim to bring you a broad range of information.

Christmas isn’t just about buying stuff. Family life should be about experiences and spending time together.

So, many of our days out and activities feature fun, interesting and educational family events that are low-cost or free.

To all our readers and advertisers – have a wonderful festive season and see you again in 2011!

Contents 4

Happily ever after

8

Budget-friendly days out

12 Medway news 16 What’s on this Christmas 18 Big fun in Tiny Town 24 Medway maternity and toddler talk 28 Christmas shopping

From all at Kent Family magazine!

Lara Slavin Editor

37,000 copies given to parents-to-be and families in Medway, Maidstone and kent.

Green mama cic, publisher of Kent Family, is an independent not-for-profit organisation. While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of details in this publication, we cannot accept responsibility for such. Views expressed by contributors and advertisers do not necessarily reflect those of the editors and publishers. Articles and advertisements created by us are copyright of green mama cic and may not be reproduced without prior consent.

to advertise call:

01634 814364 tell us about your events: events@kentfamily.co.uk got a story to tell, email: info@kentfamily.co.uk

www.kentfamily magazine.co.uk

Entertainment

Happily ever after! think pantomimes are just for kids? these shows will have adults and children booing, hissing and laughing all the way to the new year.

the Mouse Who Saved Christmas, Brook theatre, Chatham, 6th – 21st dec This magical show is a great alternative to the traditional panto. Specially created for children aged 3 to 6 years this will be the first ever ‘walk through’ production at the Brook Theatre.

Multi-sensory sets will be created in the auditorium 4

enabling the audience to visit different scenes and interact with the characters, concluding with a magical finale on the main stage.

Each performance lasts approximately 50 minutes and all tickets cost £6.50 (group discounts available).

Call the box office on 01634 338338 or visit www. brookchristmas.co.uk

www.kentfamilymagazine.co.uk

Jack and the Beanstalk Central theatre, Chatham, 10th dec – 2nd January Get ready for some fi-fi-fo-fun with Jack and the Beanstalk at The Central Theatre, Chatham. Paul Burling, who reached the finals of this year's Britain’s Got Talent, will be making a welcome return for his fifth pantomime. Starring alongside Gillingham-born Phil Gallagher, aka Cbeebies’ Mister Maker, will be Emma Barton fresh from West End stage show Chicago. There is plenty of technical wizardry this year – so you can look forward to a really giant giant, a break dancing cow, and a beanstalk that can actually be climbed! Tickets start at £14 for adults and £10 for children. Group discounts and reductions for senior citizens available. Book online via www.medwaypanto.co.uk or call 01634 338338.

Beauty and the Beast hazlitt theatre, Maidstone, 4th dec – 9th Jan Stars of the soaps grace Maidstone’s production of Beauty and the Beast.

Melissa Suffield ‘Lucy Beale from Eastenders’ plays Beauty and Ben Freeman ‘Scott Windsor from Emmerdale’ as the Prince, star alongside Danielle McCormack from

‘My Parents are Aliens’.

Director Guy Pascall said: “We’ve got plenty of great comedy routines, a live band and some fantastic singers in the show; in fact Ben Freeman was recently in the West End smashhit musical ‘Dreamboats and Petticoats’!” Tickets range from £6.95 to £12.50. Call 01622 758611 or book online at www. hazlittartscentre.co.uk Cinderella Woodville halls, gravesend, 15th dec – 3rd Jan The Queen of Clean Kim Woodburn will by playing the Fairy Godmother in this year’s family favourite, Cinderella.

The show also stars Coronation Street star Tom Hudson as Dandini and Chelsie Padley as Cinderella, who plays Louise in CBBCs ‘The Story of Tracy Beaker’. Prices start from £9 per child and £14.50 for adults.

Family of 4 tickets from £44.

Discounted rates for groups, ages 60+ and wheelchair users.

Book via www.woodvillehalls. com or call the box office on 01474 337774.

Win

Fa mi Pa ly nto Tic fo r a ket chan fa m i s c e to ly t i loca ckets to s win l sho e l ec com ws enter ted p et i t ou r i page on on 12 .

peter pan on dinosaur Island kings theatre, Chatham 19th dec – 20th april The best selling children's theatre company at the Fringe for the last five years, Spotlites @ Kings Theatre are famous for their fabulous interactive theatre for kids who don’t just want to sit still and watch! In this year’s offbeat production of ‘Peter Pan on Dinosaur Island’, children can: hunt Pirates with the T-Rex; bombard Captain Hook with dinosaur droppings; ambush Pirates with real swords! Kids come onstage throughout! Tickets £6.50, £5.50 and £22 per family. See www. spotlites.co.uk for details – book on 01634 829468. to advertise call 01634 814364 5

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A fantastic way to burn even more calories.

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Fun workout that takes place in the water.

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A truly entertaining and magical show loved by children of all ages (3+) Children’s magic shows ◆ Close-up magic Balloon modelling ◆ Learn circus skills Birthday parties, schools, nurseries, youth groups and corporate events Call Chris on 01732 847808 or 07807 927637 www.christhemagician.co.uk

to advertise call 01634 814364 7

Days Out

Budget-friendly days out After the Xmas excesses, there are still plenty of local low-cost activities to get you out and about, whatever the weather.

a BlaSt of Sea aIr Whilst winter might not seem like the obvious time to head for the coast. If it’s a crisp, dry day the sea can make a refreshing change from the hussle and bustle of town. Seaside resorts that are often packed in summer, suddenly have easy parking and a tranquility that allows you to fully soak up the boutique shops, cafes and sea air. Whitstable, Broadstairs and Folkstone are all ideal places for a Sunday morning stroll followed by a hot chocolate in a cafe. Visit www. canterbury.co.uk and www.visitthanet.co.uk to find out about local events and attractions.

Further afield Camber Sands in East Sussex is excellent for kite flying followed by a trip to nearby Rye, with its eclectic range of shops and eateries. Or head to historic Hastings for the aquarium, lifeboat museum and amusements.

8 www.kentfamilymagazine.co.uk

e n i h S r o n i a R handS on hIStory Maidstone Museum and Rochester’s Guildhall Museum are places where history truly does come to life. At Rochester’s Guildhall Museum children can hear, smell and see what life was like in the prison hulk ships that were moored in the Medway, enter Victorian room settings and listen to extracts from Samuel Pepys' diary.

At Maidstone Museum visitors can dress in fashions from yesteryear, hear dinosaurs roar and peer at a 2,700 year old Egyptian mummy. Further afield is the RAF Spitfire and Hurricane Memorial Museum at Manston near Ramsgate. Also free of charge, the museum houses two examples of the legendary Spitfire and Hurricane fighter aircraft and hundreds of artefacts relating to the Dambusters. For details visit www.spifirememorial.org.uk

CIneMa dealS Cineworld cinemas in Rochester and Ashford both run ‘Movies for Juniors’ – a special Saturday morning screening where tickets are just £1 each. You won’t see the latest blockbuster, but if you missed a film that came out a few months ago then it’s a great way to get the cinema experience without spending a fortune. The added bonus for parents is that there are often no trailers – so you can arrive at the start time and enjoy watching the film straight away. Odeon Cinemas in Maidstone and Chatham Dockside also screen selected 'Odeon Kids' films at weekends which cost £2.50 per ticket with a free ticket for an accompanying adult.

a Walk In the park Experience the changing seasons at some of the many country parks in Kent. Attractions such as Shorne Woods, Capstone Park and Riverside are popular choices. But why not explore some of the less well-known country parks such as Jeskyns near Gravesend.

Owned by the Forestry commission, it has a buggy-friendly walkway with wooden play areas dotted around. And a natural ball pool made from thousands of pinecones. White Horse Wood in Detling has an amazing view over the Kent Downs, a five hectare area of open grassland and a wooded area in which over 20,000 trees have been planted. Whilst there you can explore the medieval ruins of Thurnham Castle and traces of an Iron Age settlement. Details, events and activities can be found at www.kent.gov.uk/kentcountryparks

on your BIke Whether Santa is delivering a new bike this year or you just want to get out for some fresh air, there are plenty of places where children can cycle. www.sustrans. org.uk and www.kent.gov.uk have sections on cycling routes in Kent. Begdgebury Pinetum near Goudhurst has 10km of newly surfaced family cycle track round the 2,000 acre forest. Parking is £7.50 per car. Closer to home there’s Leybourne Lakes and Rochester Riverside Development, which has a 1.5 mile paved walk/ cycle way alongside the river. to advertise call 01634 814364 9

Ofsted Registered

Kip McGrath’s qualified teachers create individual tutoring programmes for your child.

Kent and Medway 11+ Gifted/talented programme Core skills for 6-16 years Personal Study Programme

Call Terry on 01634 201777 4 Ashdown House, Walderslade Village, Chatham, ME5 9LR

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New 11+ Tuition Classes for Year 5 pupils l l l l

Medway and Kent 11+ specialists Run by qualified teachers Frequent feedback and exam practice Easy pay options

Classes at St Mary’s Island Community Centre.

Ample, free parking. Close to Dockside.

www.11plus-academy.co.uk 01634 893659 / 07766 223254 enquiries@11plus-academy.co.uk

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Realise your child’s potential Maths and English After-School Programmes • Work at a pace tailored to your child’s needs • Give their confidence a real boost • Develop invaluable study habits and concentration • Complement the school curriculum Contact your local Instructor today.

CHATHAM, WALDERSLADE STUDY CENTRE Donna Wood

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Every child can shine

Lynda Chambers trading as

Razzamataz Theatre l place Schools are the idea ith an w rls gi for boys and of the ld or w interest in the about rn lea Performing Arts to Dance, Pop Singing, Street Musical Theatre, Styles, Commercial Dance ysical Theatre. d Ph anild Dramra ch ren aged 4-18 Fo

Enrol now for classes in January.

Book by 10th Jan for a FREE trial session.

Hayley Limpkin, Principal 01634 893524 medway@razzamataz.co.uk

Seahorse School of Swimming

Bo Janu ok by 1st L ar y and ess o FREE n is

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Classes at Kingʼs School, Rochester Hilltop School, Frindsbury, Oaklands School, Walderslade, Arethusa Centre, Upnor.

Lessons for children and adults, non-swimmers, beginners, adult and child, special needs, improvers, advanced, survival and rookie lifeguard.

Children from 18 months to adults.

Maximum 8 pupils per class. Private 1-1’s & 1-2’s

Tel: Lynda Chambers on 07931 581125

www.seahorseschoolofswimming.co.uk seahorseschoolofswimming@hotmail.com

Be the star of Razzamataz Medway the show!

Your local Razzamataz Theatre School:

Principal: Hayley Limpkin Telephone: 01634 893524 Mobile: 07888 855422

Knights Place Farm Livery and Riding School

Kid’s lessons from £5 ★

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Email: medway@razzamataz.co.uk

More details at www.razzamataz.co.uk First le

freesson 1/2 to

Ballet, tap and modern/jazz Ages 2 18 Work towards our Theatre show, ISTD exams

or just for fun!

Classes held at Arethusa Road, Rochester.

Call now and get your first lesson FREE. Samantha Seenan A.I.S.T.D on 07710 547672

ROCHESTER SCHOOL OF DANCE

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Children’s parties

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★ Pre-school classes £5 per half hour ★ After school classes ages 5-6 £8 per half hour ★ Children’s lessons from £10 for pairs ★ Mum’s mornings,children’s parties and more ★ Themed fun days during school hols from £20 per day Private and group lessons for children and adults.

Indoor and outdoor schools, hacking in local woodland.

Call 01474 824333 or 07971 911552 www.kpfriding.co.uk Situated on the A2 sliproad from Strood, near Three Crutches roundabout.

to advertise call 01634 814364 11

Medway

news

CoMpetItIon

Shine with an arts award at Razzamataz

Family Pantomime Tickets

You could be the lucky winner of a family ticket to one of three local pantomimes? We have a family ticket to each of the following shows: Jack and the Beanstalk at the Central Theatre Chatham, Cinderella at Woodville Halls Gravesend and Beauty and the Beast at the Hazlitt Theatre in Maidstone. To be in with a chance to win tickets to your favourite panto enter our competition online, by email or by post.

Email your name, address, phone number and preferred pantomime choice to winpanto@kentfamily. co.uk or post to Win Panto Competition, 91 Maidstone Road, Rochester, ME1 1RL. Or enter online at: www.kentfamilymagazine.co.uk COMPETITION RULES: Only one entry per family. Open to Kent residents only. Closing date Friday 10th December.

Winner will be notified by phone. For full terms and conditions visit our website.

12

www.kentfamilymagazine.co.uk

In the New Year, Razzamataz Theatre School in Medway is offering young people aged 1118 the chance to work towards a nationally recognised Arts Award. Accredited by the Arts Council England, the awards help young people to develop as artists and arts leaders, and covers a range of interests and

abilities. Split into three levels, they are equivalent to GCSE and A Level standard qualifications.

With the Gold Award recognised on the UCAS points system for University and Higher Education.

Medway principal Hayley Limpkin said: “It’s an exciting opportunity for our students.

For those that have a real rides, competitions and the chance to meet Noddy and Father Christmas.

Saturday 27th noVeMBer. Rochester. Family fun outside the Information Centre at 3.45pm.

Medway lights up frIday 26th noVeMBer. Gillingham Christmas lights switch-on featuring Noddy.

Smiths Square, High Street, Gillingham. The show starts at 3.45pm and culminates with the lights being turned on at 5pm. Performances from local majorette and dance troupes, choir singing, face-painting, balloon modelling, carousel

Saturday 27th noVeMBer. Strood. Activities at Angel Corner at 5.00pm . frIday 3rd deCeMBer. Rainham Christmas lights switch-on featuring TV character Rupert Bear.

Rainham Shopping Centre.

Starting at 3.45pm, lights turned on at 5pm. Meet kids favourites Rupert Bear and Father Christmas.

Dancing, singing, children’s activities, fair ground ride and give-aways.

Where to see passion and commitment for the performing arts, this is their chance to shine.” Razzamataz classes, which launched in Medway this autumn, consist of three sessions of dance, drama and singing. Classes for ages 4-18 take place at Roko Health Club, Gillingham. Contact 01634 893524 or visit www. razzamataz.co.uk

Medway dyslexia Website A new web-based charity, The Dyslexia House Association, has a website providing information and support for dyslexic people, parents and teachers in Medway and mid-Kent. Featuring a wealth of advice, information and tips www.medwaydys.org

Pass it on... the deadline for applications for Medway primary and junior school places starting next September is Saturday 15th January 2011. apply online at www.medway.gov. uk/onlineadmissions

Father Christmas

father Christmas certainly is busy this month! here’s our pick of his packed diary for december. heMpStead Valley A magical 3D grotto experience opens on Sunday 28th November and runs daily until Christmas eve.

Visitors will experience a magical sleigh ride as the delightful story of Rocket and his missing antler unfolds.

Included in the ticket price is a meeting with Santa himself, who will give each child a special gift. Open Mon – Sat 10am-6pm, Sundays 10am4pm. With later opening in the week before Christmas.

Tickets cost £4 per child and £2 per adult and the experience lasts approx 45 minutes. leedS CaStle Pre-booked slots on 11th and 12th Dec and daily from 16th -24th Dec. £8.50 per child including a gift. Booking essential, on 01622 880008. pentagon Centre Opening on Saturday 27th November until Christmas Eve. The magical Christmas grotto if just £1 per child, including a gift. Open weekdays and weekends. For

information and times visit the Pentagon Centre's website at www.pentagonshoppingcentre. co.uk rIVerSIde and CapStone On Tuesday 21st December Father Christmas will be at Riverside Country Park in Rainham between 1-4pm.

Meet Santa and receive a small gift, plus arts and crafts activities including decorating your own wish list. Book by 11th December on 01634 337432, £2.50 per child. He will also be appearing at Capstone Farm in Gillingham on Wednesday 22nd December, 1–4pm, book in advance on 01634 338191 by 11th December. to advertise call 01634 814364 13

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Effective tuition for children working towards the 11+ grammar school tests in Medway and Kent.

To chat things through or reserve a place call

05602 538 882 or visit our website

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Maths, English, 11+ preparation Being a school governor takes up less time than you think. The rewards are endless.

Take a positive interest in a local school and make a difference for the children and you.

You can help develop: ● your school and its children ● a better environment for your community ● your communication skills and abilities

Phone: 01634 331052 or 331027 Email: governor.services@medway.gov.uk Visit: www.medway.gov.uk

14

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■ Individual tuition by qualified teachers ■ Weekly feedback ■ Reading specialist Years 2-6 Call Jane for a free assessment-01634 400240 172b High Street Rochester www.kipmcgrath.co.uk

Next issue deadline 18th feb out 12th March

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Classes for Yr 3 - Yr 11 Core skills Evenings & Weekends l Confidence building All public exams: SATs, 11+(Kent & l Handwriting GCSE, Common Entrance RTC AD 2.indd Medway), 1 14/12/08 23:18:21 TC AD 2.indd 1 and Scholarships 14/12/08 23:18:21 11+ Specific Performance Programme for Holiday & revision programmes Year 5 pupils - Kent and Medway tests Handwriting courses lOne to one (subject Maths, to availability) Lessons in English, VR, NVR l Exam practice l Assessment, skills analysis and Family score forecast est 1987 l Advice and guidance Business l Very high success rate 73a Maidstone Road, Rochester l

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What’s on

this Christmas It’s time to get festive. and with so many great activities at museums, country parks and local visitor attractions there’s something for every budget.

2nd–24th deC narnia-themed Christmas, hever Castle, nr Sevenoaks Hever Castle will be transformed into a Narniathemed winter wonderland, meet Santa and have a festive donkey ride. Special evening entertainment on 9th, 10th, 16th and 17th December 5.30–9pm where you can witness the castle lit up, sing carols and meet Father Christmas. Admission prices apply. www.hevercastle.co.uk Saturday 4th deC tree dressing, Shorne Woods Country park, nr gravesend 10am–12noon, Make decorations for the trees at Shorne.

Ages 5–12 years. £1. Booking required on 01474 823800.

Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th deC dickensian Christmas, rochester free Street fairs, entertainment, family activities. And festive German Market in the Castle grounds. The highlight is a carol concert outside Rochester Cathedral complete with fake snow.

For more details and to view an online brochure visit www.whatsonmedway.co.uk Sunday 5th deC tree dressing family fun day at yalding gardens A celebration of trees with the

age- old custom of tree dressing.

Drop-in sessions between 10am12noon and 1-3pm. Free activity when you pay to enter the gardens. www.yaldinggardens.org 6th–24th deC Christmas at leeds Castle, nr Maidstone See the Castle’s rooms decorated with scenes inspired by classical pantomimes. Special events taking place include meet Father Christmas (11th, 12th, 16th-24th), take magical evening tours of the castle with pantomime characters (15th, 17th, 20th, 22nd) and see Chapterhouse Theatre Company’s performance of A Christmas Carol (10th, 11th, 12th). Pre-booking for special events essential, call 01622 880008. www.leeds-castle.com Sat 11th deC pop In ChrIStMaS Craft for all Strood Library free 10.30am-3.30pm. Booking essential on 01634 335890.

Sat 11th deC feStIVe SInga-long for all the faMIly Chatham Library FREE 3–4.30pm.

Booking essential on 01634 337799.

11th–12th, 18th–19th deC father Christmas in his Medieval grotto, Bodiam CastleMeet Father Christmas in his wonderful medieval grotto where all children receive a special gift. £7.50.

Call Bodiam Castle on 01580 830196

11th–12th, 18th–23rd Dec Magical Christmas at Rare Breed Centre, near Ashford One man pantomime shows, Santa’s magic post box, enchanted grotto with Santa and his helpers, stories and songs.

Carols in the barn with the Salvation Army on 19th December. www.rarebreeds.org.uk Mon 20th Dec Make Victorian Pomanders, Maidstone Museum 10.30am–12.30pm and 1.30–3.30pm.

Drop in sessions. Make your own Victorian Christmas decoration.

Under 12s. £2 per child. No booking required.

Tuesday 21st Dec Santa at the Park, Riverside Country Park, Rainham 1-4pm. Meet Santa and receive a small gift, plus arts and crafts activities including decorating your own wish list. Book by 11th December on 01634 337432, £2.50 per child. Also at Capstone Farm on Wednesday 22nd December, 1–4pm, book in advance on 01634 338191.

Tuesday 21st Dec Make Reindeer Glove Puppets, Maidstone Museum 10.30am–12.30pm and 1.30–3.30pm, Make a Rudolf the Reindeer glove puppet. Under 12s. £2 per child. No booking required.

Tuesday 21st Dec Winter Wonderland Storytime and Crafts, Rainham Library FREE 2.15–3pm, Stories and crafts for under 8s, booking essential on 01634 333854.

Tuesday 21st Dec Christmas crafts for 4–10 year-olds, Hempstead Library, 3.30-4.30pm FREE Booking essential on 01634 361544.

Wednesday 22nd Dec Victorian Calendars, Maidstone Museum 10.30am–12.30pm and 1.30pm– 3.30pm, Create a calendar to give as a gift, or to keep. Under 12s. £2 per child. No booking required.

Thursday 30th Dec Winter story time, Rochester Library FREE 11–11.30am, for under 8s.

Booking essential on 01634 337411.

Also at Lordswood Library, 2.30-3pm, book on 01634 862096.

Wednesday 22nd Dec Star Wars drama workshop for 5-14 year olds.11am-12noon.

Spotlites @ Kings Theatre, Chatham. £5. Book in advance on 01634 829468.

Thursday 30th Dec Doctor Who drama workshop 11am-12noon.

Suitable for 5-14 year olds. Sonic screwdrivers at the ready! Spotlites @ Kings Theatre, Chatham. £5.

Book in advance on 01634 829468.

Also Adventure Quest workshop 12noon-1pm.

Wednesday 22nd Dec Harry Potter Christmas Includes a small gift. 11am-12noon.

Suitable for 5-14 year olds. Spotlites @ Kings Theatre, Chatham. £6.50. Book in advance on 01634 829468.

Sunday 26th December Boxing Day Walk, Shorne Woods Country Park 11am–1pm. Join the warden team on this 2 hour guided walk. Enjoy the fresh winter air and burn off some of those Christmas calories. The walk will cover 4–5 miles. £3.50 per person. Booking required on 01474 823 800.

26th Dec–3rd Jan The Christmas Trail, Leeds Castle Blow away the cobwebs after Christmas following pantomime character clues through the grounds with a reward for children completing the trail. Normal admission prices apply plus an additional £1 for the trail.

27th – 31st Dec Medieval Myths and Legends, Dover Castle 10am - 5pm .Take part in the Christmas Quest and enjoy stories of brave knights and heroic quests.

Usual admission prices apply. www.english-heritage.org.uk

Friday 31st Dec Hannah Montana drama workshop Sing, act and dance! 11am-12noon.

Ages 5-14. Spotlites @ Kings Theatre, Chatham. £5. Book in advance on 01634 829468. Also Disney Faries workshop 12noon1pm. Help Tink and friends save the princesses. Book in advance on 01634 829468.

Saturday 1st Jan New Year’s Day Walk, Shorne Woods Country Park 12.00–1.30pm, £3.50. Join the warden for a New Year’s guided walk and enjoy the fresh winter air.

The walk will last approximately 1.5 hours. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking required on 01474 823 800.

Tell us about your events for inclusion in our upcoming issues! email details to: events@kentfamily.co.uk While we make every effort to ensure times, dates, prices and details are correct, please call the location in advance to confirm these.

to advertise call 01634 814364

17

fostering-MMad_Layout 1 17/09/2010 09:32 Page 2

Medway needs foster carers Pass

it on

We need local people to look after local children in many situations; a caring home can make all the difference.

If you are looking to develop a career in childcare and think you can make a difference to a child’s life, please get in touch.

Phone: 01634 335713 Visit: www.medway.gov.uk/fostering Email: stephanie.norman@medway.gov.uk

Delce Infant School Nursery and Childrenʼs Centre Crest Road, Rochester Me1 2QA l FREE funded places available for 3-4 year olds l Open: term time 8.45-11.45am and 12:30-3:30pm l High-quality care and appropriate child-centred curriculum l Secure outside play area l New purpose-built foundation stage unit

For further information or to arrange a visit please phone

01634 844127

or email office@delceinf.medway.sch.uk

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Birthdays, weddings, corporate events, baby showers anniversaries, thank-you’s, or just because.

AVENUE AVENUE

t: 07958 742559 or e: info@cupcakeavenue.co.uk

Cupcakes for every occasion Birthdays, weddings, corporate events, baby showers anniversaries, thank-you’s, or just because.

Handmade cakes and cupcakes for every occasion.

Cupcakes for every occasion

t: 07958 742559 or e: info@cupcakeavenue.co.uk

Cupcakes for every occasion Birthdays, weddings, corporate events, baby showers anniversaries, thank-you’s, or just because.

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Cupcakes for every occasion

Birthdays, weddings, corporate events, baby showers, anniversaries, ys, weddings, corporate events, baby showers Birthdays, weddings, corporate events, baby showers thank-yous, or just because. nniversaries, thank-you’s, or just because. anniversaries, thank-you’s, or just because. t: 07958 742559 or e: info@cupcakeavenue.co.uk www.cupcakeavenue.co.uk

t: 07958 742559 or e: info@cupcakeavenue.co.uk Cupcakes for every occasion Birthdays, weddings, corporate events, baby showers anniversaries, thank-you’s, or just because. t: 0795 8742559 or e: info@cupcakeavenue.co.uk t: 07958 742559 or e: info@cupcakeavenue.co.uk www.cupcakeavenue.co.uk

t: 07958 742559 or e: info@cupcakeavenue.co.uk

www.cupcakeavenue.co.uk

irls Every G Dream

Spectacular Girls glitter parties Hair, Make-up, Nails, Temporary Tattoos, Friendship Bangles, Craft Making, Dancing, Party Games, Prizes and lots more.

Plus fantastic Pure Glitz party bags Call Nina on 01634 408867 or Kate on 01634 233688

www.pure-glitz.co.uk

Online shop for educational wooden toys, puppets, fancy dress, baby accessories & more

Overweight? Tired?

Confused?

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to advertise call 01634 814364 19

Fun time

Big Fun in Tiny Town This September, Kent’s newest indoor play area opened its doors to local families. So we went along to find out what they have to offer. faMIly-run and faMIly-frIendly “I'm so excited to come to work, the energy from the children and parents who visit is amazing” says manager Patricia Baquero.

The idea for an indoor play area came about after the birth of her

granddaughter. Says Patricia: “We couldn’t find many places to go during the winter that were interesting and stimulating for our granddaughter as well as family-friendly and fun. So my son came up with the idea of Tiny Town and we began

our research. When we found a 20,000 sq. ft. building behind the KM offices in Larkfield we realised it would be an excellent location for parents in Maidstone, Medway and Tonbridge. Making it one of the largest indoor play areas in the UK.” theMed toWn Tiny Town is more than just a name – the play area is split into seven zones including a supermarket, hospital, race track and fire station which together make up the town.

All the areas have plenty of brightly coloured play equipment.

And each of the zones features different themes and props to encourge learning through

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play. There are giant coins in the supermarket, along with posters about healthy food. And information about what to do in an emergency in the fire station.

And for kids and adults they two have state-of-the-art 3G football pitches, located within the same open plan building as the soft play area.

Best bits . . .for groWnupS Free Wi-Fi l Home-made cakes, a range of coffee and freshly-prepared snacks l Free papers and magazines l Central seating area and CCTV so it’s easier to keep an eye on your little ones l Very clean and regularly inspected by staff l

eXtra touCheS It’s obvious in talking to Patricia that she is passionate about what she does and wants parents and children to enjoy their experience at Tiny Town.

“We have just started a special free evening for children with disabilities and special needs.

Having watched a mother following her autistic son around during our regular session I realised it would be much less stressful for her if she had a special time when they could come. So now we open late on the last Wednesday of the month just for disabled and special needs children. And it’s free. We are also launching a special grandparents session.

And for pre-schoolers, we’re starting a story-time session once a week during the day.”

Entrance is for two hours and costs £3 for 0-2s and £4 for ages 2-12s off-peak (9:30am3:30pm). Weekends, after school, bank holidays and school holidays are peak time and prices are £4 (0-2) and £5 (2-12). For more information go to www.yourtinytown.co.uk or visit them at Sheldon Way, Larkfield, ME20 6SE.

Best bits . . . for kIdS 3G football pitches Messy play area with chalks and giant puzzles l Covered slide with tracer lighting in space zone l Cool bikes l Special area for under 4s only l Sensory room l l

to advertise call 01634 814364 21

At last, a class JUST for babies

Enjoy a wonderful sensoryexperience with your baby.

From birth to 13 months. Bubbles, light shows, glow balls, bells, music and more.

Fun classes that help children to communicate with confidence ✮ Social confidence ✮ Listening and attention ✮ Sharing and turn-taking ✮ Vocabulary building ✮ Pre-literacy skills

Lots of ideas you can use at home. A great way to bond with your baby, make friends and have fun.

Classes throughout Medway.

Come join the fun! Call Sarah on 07813 632 552

Our unique classes are bursting with fun games and activities that boost children’s natural speech and language development. Talking Tots provides the perfect combination of fun, stimulation and learning for children from 12 months to five years.

Baby Signing the FUN way!! 

For classes in Rochester and Gravesend Call Claire on 07754 866592 or email: claireh@talkingtots.info www.talkingtots.info

BOOK NOW FOR JANUARY CLASSES

 This unique programme combines the benefits of both music  and baby signing to stimulate your baby’s speech and language  development.

Hearing babies from as young as 7 months are using  gestures to communicate BEFORE their first words.

For more information on our multi-award winning classes in  Medway and Maidstone contact Lorraine on 

07954 439579 lorrainemurray@singandsign.co.uk

Gymbabe Ad 64x60>16710 aw:Layout 1

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Helping to ease many conditions including:

Give your baby a head start in life!

Gymbabes classes are tailor made for babies from 6 months upwards and has been voted Best children’s activity provider by Tommys’ baby friendly awards.

• Exercises and colourful equipment to encourage your baby to sit, crawl and eventually walk!

• Action songs & rhymes to develop listening skills and enjoyment of music.

Please call on: 01634 682760 or visit: www.tumbletots.com/medway

Classes at Medway, Maidstone West and Meopham

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Sickness & nausea Back pain & sciatica Overdue baby Stress & anxiety Blood pressure fluctuations Digestive disorders Sleep disorders Postnatal problems

... and more Call Georgina Strickland MAR 01634 313158 / 07870 409681 www.lifespanreflexology.co.uk

Book your FREE trial class now at Caterpillar Music Babies & children enjoy learning in a fun atmosphere with exciting puppets, songs & lots of surprises every week!

Caterpillar Music also offer amazing Birthday Parties, Nursery and Children’s Centre sessions!

Visit www.caterpillarmusic.com or call Jo on 01634 670370

Making Movement Matter!

2 to 4 year olds

Classes in: Creative ST MARY’S ISLAND, Physical Fun WALDERSLADE, STROOD Certificates AND MAIDSTONE Parties Call Lisa Jarrett on Nursery 01634 682181 Classes lisajarrett@dinkydancers.com Free trial

There’s nothing quite like Dinky Dancers Part-time class leaders wanted. Call for details

to advertise call 01634 814364 23

Medway maternity & toddler talk Get Fit for Birth

Baby Sensory Launches in Medway A new baby class has launched in Medway providing an hour of smiles, giggles and fun for babies from birth to 13 months.

This unique class also provides parents and carers with a wealth of ideas for stimulating and soothing babies.

Sarah Bright, class leader said, “ The aim of Baby Sensory is to start you and your baby on an exciting journey of discovery, and to have fun!” Baby Sensory shows parents hundreds of simple activities that are fun to do with their baby

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such as baby signing, hug and hold, baby whispering and dance. As well as incorporating sensory experiences including magical fibre optic light shows, bouncy glow balls, silky scarves, textures and scents, pebbles, bubbles, a water splash or a puppet show. “And that’s just for starters! “, says Sarah.

Weekday classes take place in Rochester and Rainham, with weekend sessions coming soon. And you can join at any time.

They also have a special ‘baby’s 1st Christmas’ session taking place on 11th December. For more information contact Sarah on 07813 632 552 or email medway@babysensory. co.uk.

“Being fit and healthy during pregnancy can have many benefits but it’s important to seek expert advice to adapt your exercise to your changing body” says Michelle Burke a qualified ante natal fitness instructor. “Staying fit not only makes labour easier but can help you sleep better, keep your blood pressure at a safe level and help relieve pregnancy complaints such as carpal tunnel and varicose veins”. Michelle runs postnatal Buggyfit exercise classes has just launched a new Preganancy Wellbeing Package.

Michelle will visit you at your home for one hour and show you simple, safe low-impact exercises to keep you healthy throughout your pregnancy. Call Michelle on 07766 012584 or email crowcorner@yahoo.co.uk

Talking Heads

nikki Chard, Mud pies aBout Me I’m Nikki Chard and I live, with my husband, in Borstal, Rochester. I have 5 children – all boys! The eldest two are away at university in Canada, but the house is still full with the three little ones, aged 5, 4 and 2.

It really is something that can start at a very young age. Even my youngest boys help make pizzas, muffins and home-made fish fingers.

So I thought, why not turn what we do at home into a fun, exciting and messy preschool activity.

hoW dId Mud pIeS CoMe aBout?

My 5 year old has just started school and I only have 2 more years before my 4 year old starts. I’ve enjoyed this time at home with them, but felt that I needed to look to the future and create something of my own. I did some research and decided that the best thing is to do is something that I feel passionate about.

I can’t sing or dance, but I can cook!

hoW do the ClaSSeS Work?

The parent and toddler classes run during termtime. Children and parents have fun cooking together and take home a tasty treat, along with a recipe card so that they can make them again and again! We also have lots of fun activities and opportunities to learn about food, making it an ideal class for children aged 2-5 years.

Why a pre-SChool ClaSS? After packing my two older boys off to university I thought about how important basic cooking skills are, as well as understanding what constitutes a healthy diet and why it is so important.

If I had a day to MySelf I’d…

Definitely spend it at a spa!

The noise levels in my house are extreme so a day of peace and pampering would be fab!

For details about Mud Pies classes call Nikki on 07815 063163.

SAVE THE DATE...

Fresh from their successful autumn nearly new sale, Medway NCT have set the date for the next event as 12th March 2011. Visit www.nctmedway.org. uk for details of their next sale which takes place at Rainham School for Girls.

New Caterpillar Classes

Caterpillar Music is relaunching the Baby class (caterpillars) in Walderslade in January 2011. This is in addition to the ever popular toddler and pre-school class (Butterfl ies). Classes are held on a Thursday morning at Beechen Hall.

Now booking for free trial classes in January.

Call Jo on 01634 670370 or go to www. caterpillarmusic.com to see the full class listings.

to advertise call 01634 814364 25

Toddler and Pre-school Swim classes

Post Natal Fitness Its not just a walk in the park!

Adult and child lessons for ages 18 months and over.

Classes at Frindsbury Strood and Walderslade Chatham.

Book now

Small class sizes.

Start anytime.

Seahorse School of Swimming Lynda Chambers 07931 581125

seahorseschoolofswimming@hotmail.com

19/7/10

Tumble Tots is Britain's leading National Active Physical Play Programme for children from 6 months to 7 years • Using specifically designed equipment your child will learn agility, balance, climbing and co-ordination skills. • A structured fun programme designed to build self confidence and develop essential listening & language skills.

Please call on: 01634 682760 or visit: www.tumbletots.com/medway

Classes at Medway, Maidstone West and Meopham Call n a n d g ow et first le your s s on

Fun and friendly class introducing ballet and funky moves.

Musical instruments, props and dressing up add to the fun!

Giving your child an excellent introduction to the world of dance.

Classes held at Arethusa Road, Rochester.

Samantha Seenan A.I.S.T.D

07710 547672

ROCHESTER SCHOOL OF DANCE

26 www.kentfamilymagazine.co.uk

WWW.BUGGYFIT.CO.UK Call Michelle 07766012584

TT Ad 64x60>16710 aw:Layout 1 www.seahorseschoolofswimming.co.uk

Pre-school Ballet Classes

Join the Buggyfit mums on a course to lead you back to fitness, regain your shape and allow those pre pregnancy jeans to fit again!

All without the worry of childcare or high costs of a gym. Bring baby with you and meet other mums in the area.

FR E E

16: to book your place or email crowcorner@yahoo.co.uk

Fun and exciting pre-school activity class.

Make yummy sweet and savoury dishes together.

Learn about food, explore new flavours and have fun!

Classes in Medway.

Call Nikki on 07815 063136 Also kids cookery parties for ages 2-12

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Baby Massage * Baby Yoga * Pregnancy Massage Medway and Maidstone area. 1-to-1 and small groups.

Contact Melanie King: 0780 3164250

XXX UJOZUPVDIFT DP VL

to advertise call 01634 814364 27

Shop local

Christmas shopping KEEP IT KENT THIS YEAR FOR CREATIVE, UNUSUAL, PERSONAL AND FUN GIFTS.

© Santoro London

Dizzy rag doll £13.99 and wooden shape sorting clock £13.99 from Gillinghambased online educational toy shop www.totsntoys.co.uk

Gorjuss bag £24.99 and flask £9.99.

Perfect for tweenagers! Francis Iles, High Street, Rochester

Paint your own pottery Make your own unique gifts, Renaissance Crafts, Starnes Court, Maidstone

Monster puppets £18.99 Complete with squeaky mouths. Francis Iles, High Street, Rochester

Cotton Zoo badge sets £8.99 Francis Iles, High Street, Rochester

Pixie peg board £15 From Rochester-based www. madeinpixieland.co.uk

Wooden bookends £17.49 From Gillinghambased online toy shop www.totsntoys. co.uk

Floral headband £25 Copenhagen Blue, 78 High Street, Rochester

© Santoro London

Capture your child’s writing, pictures or fingerprints in silver jewellery Smallprint 01634 320722

Unique and individual women’s clothing, shoes and accessories from Denmark

Copenhagenblue, 78 High Street, Rochester Opening times: Monday-Saturday 10:00am - 5:00pm Late night and Sunday openings throughtout December

E-mail kathrine@copenhagenblue.com to join our mailing list.

Sale starts 28th December

Renaissance Crafts

Paint Your Own Pottery

l Late night opening for adults l Parties l Large room for groups - Scouts, Guides, WI etc l Baby footprints l Make unique gifts

Pots of fun for everyone!

Open Monday to Friday 10am-5.30pm. Late night Thursdays.

Saturday 10am-5pm. (Other times by arrangement)

16 Starnes Court, Union Street, Maidstone.

01622 750467 www.renaissancecrafts.co.uk

30 www.kentfamilymagazine.co.uk

Christmas at Francis Iles

The ABC of Christmas

Advent Calendars. Brain Teasers. Crafts & Cardmaking. Domestic Goddess Gloves.

Emma Bridgewater Crackers & Wrap.

Family Games. Gisela Graham Decorations.

Handbags & Charms. Incense Lamps.

Jigsaw Puzzles. Kimono Dolls. Little Books. Miss Matched Socks. Naughty gifts.

Orangutan Puppets. Photo Frames. Quality Jewellery. Retro. Superman. Tins. Union Jack. Very Helpful Staff. Wobbly Clocks.

Xmas Cards. Yearly calenders & Diaries.

Ztocking Fillers!!

Affordable, Brilliant, Covetable Francis Iles makes Christmas Easy!

r cembe y in De Christmas a d n u S every bulous “Open Visit our Fa Galleries” . e m h - 4p s in t 11am Upstair m o o R

francis iles 103 & 104 High street Rochester Kent Me1 1LX

Ever dreamt of being

your own boss?

Then start YOUR Mary Kay Cosmetics business today!

■ FREE Training and great support ■ Work your own hours ■ Make new friends ■ Learn new skills ■ Earn 40% on everything you sell ■ Perfect for ages18-80 Call Emily Gingell on 01634 329229 / 07852 507831

01634 843081

Outdoor exercise for women only Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9:30am Priestfields, Rochester Improve fitness, lose inches.

Proven results.

Free taster session, quote: Kent Family.

Call Pip on 07981 225799

Next issue

deadline 18th feb out 12th March www.kentfamilymagazine.co.uk

kent family Magazine group to advertise call 01634 814364 31

Childcare and Out of school activities Parenting and Family Support Help with childcare costs Careers and vacancies in childcare Leisure and positive activities Children and Family Service Directory

m e d w a y

F I S family infor mation service A D V I C E • I N F O R M AT I O N • B R O K E R A G E

Free and impartial information for families with children aged 0 – 20 years

www.medway.gov.uk www.medwayfisd.com

01634 33 55 66

Once you have finished with this magazine, please pass it to a friend or recycle it.