Kent Mama Medway - Spring 2010

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From pregnancy to 11 years

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GREAT VALUE DAYS OUT

Medway gets active!

BEST KENT CASTLES

EASTER HOLIDAY FUN

Riverside and Capstone makeovers

Win

SPRING GOODIES

Local News What’s On Maternity Parenting School Days ●

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LAURA’S ACADEMY OF NUTRITION AND EXERCISE

Personal training that gets results One-to-one training £35.

Small groups from £7pp. ● No joining fees or monthly commitments – just pay for what you use. ● Fully equipped, secluded private gym, 1-to-1 and group sessions tailored to your level of fitness. ● Individualised exercise and nutrition plans for adults and children. ● 30 years’ experience working with individuals, companies and organisations.

Easter Kids Club

football, circuits, food facts and fun exercises for kids aged 7-11. £6 per child.

NEW Walk it off

group walking sessions to tone tums, bums and legs. £7pp

Watch Laura Church's Nutrition Bible on LA Muscle TV Sky 281

SPECIAL OFFER Suspension training £10 per adult / child.

Sessions available 6am to 9pm.

Telephone 01634 366000 Mobile 07768 401217 E-mail: laura@laurachurch.com Website:www.laurachurch.com Westmoor Farmhouse, Moor Street, Rainham, Kent ME8 8QF

mama

Kent

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Welcome to the Spring issue . . . after a wet winter, we’re all looking forward to the warmer days and the chance to get out and about. From historic castles to hunting for chocolate eggs, we’ve got plenty of ideas to keep you busy this Spring without breaking the bank...

Meet the team editor: lara Slavin 01634 814364 Sub-editor: katharine lang 01634 306321 designer: Jackie pugh 01634 849949 printing: headley brothers Ashford, Kent

Get in touch

For information, advertising or editorial contact 01634 814364 info@kentmama.co.uk www.kentmama.co.uk

Kent Mama Magazine group

35,000 copies given to parents-to-be and families in medway, maidstone and Sittingbourne.

Green mama cic, publisher of Kent mama, 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 refl ect 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.

lara Slavin

katharine lang

Mum to Tia, 9, Joe, 11 and Barnaby, 5.

Lara set up the magazine four years ago and now deals with advertising, articles, distribution and the running of the business. likes: Sunny days on Camber Sands, chocolate truffles and camping. dislikes: Children squabbling and grumpy husbands.

Mum to Imogen, 12, Philippa, 9, and Millie, 7.

Katharine moved to Medway in 2006.

Following a career in publishing, she retrained as a secondary school teacher and continues to sub-edit Kent mama. likes: Cooking, gardening and our pet chickens. dislikes: Getting up early.

Contents 4

castle capers

8

What's on

Discover the past at our pick of local castles.

Things-to-do in Medway and Kent this April.

12 medway news

Local new for families.

21 maternity news

Articles and events for mums-to-be.

Jackie pugh Mum to Caitlin, 11, and Abbie, 7.

Originally from Whitstable, Jackie worked in London for IPC Media as a designer. She now designs Kent mama from her Rochester home. likes: My girls (most of the time!), horse riding and Redbush tea. dislikes: Cleaning out the cat tray!

25 toddler talk

Childcare, what's new in store and more.

28 medway gets active

Local clubs and classes for children.

30 easter giveaways

Win tickets to Leeds Castle, Kent Music show, a pottery painting night out and Easter goodies.

to advertise call 01634 814364

3

Days out

Castle capers Step back in time for some hands-on history and a great family day out at our pick of the best local castles.

Hever Castle Venture beyond Tunbridge Wells on the road to Edenbridge and you’ll come across Hever Castle, childhood home of Anne Boleyn. As you’d imagine, the Tudor theme features heavily and they have regular jousting weekends (from 23rd July–28th August) and Henry VIII themed events (29th–31st May). This 13th-century castle is double moated, with stunning formal gardens, open spaces and a 38-acre lake. Star attraction for kids is the water maze, which squirts them when they take a wrong turn. So take a raincoat and spare clothes.

There are plenty of picnic spots, a restaurant and a medieval-themed playground. Family of four ticket for castle and gardens is £33.

4

www.kentmama.co.uk

Dover Castle Its position on the white cliffs, overlooking the Channel, means Dover Castle has been a prime location throughout history. As well as the famous newly refurbished tower with its holographic storytellers and medieval rooms, you’ll find Roman battlements, an Anglo-Saxon church and secret wartime tunnels. Originally built to counter the invasion threat from Napoleonic France, the underground tunnels' finest hour came in WW2, when it housed the operation that rescued 338,000 troops from Dunkirk. Touring the tunnels gives a real sense of what life was like for the 700 personnel stationed there. Great views, plenty of open spaces and nooks and crannies to explore makes Dover Castle a powerful example of British history through the ages. Family ticket £34.80.

Pics: Leeds Castle Foundation

Leeds Castle Is a fascinating mix of Tudor history - it was frequently visited

by Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon - and immaculate room sets from more recent times under private ownership by the wealthy Lady Baillie. A beautiful walk from the entrance to the castle (or you can cheat and take the land bus) takes you through part of the 500-acre park. Kids of all ages will enjoy the maze with a hidden shell grotto, aviary, craft room and large adventure playgrounds, ensuring everyone goes home exhausted and happy! Pay once and you get unlimited free visits for a whole year, adults £16.50 and children (4-15 years) £9.50.

Upcoming events include Spring into Easter 2nd–5th April and Jousting 1st–6th June.

Bodiam Castle If you like your castles simple and hands-on, then Bodiam, in East Sussex, is for you. It may not have the mazes and adventure playgrounds of some of the larger attractions, but there are plenty of events to keep you occupied and on a sunny day you can relax with a picnic while the kids explore the battlements and the remains of the interior.

The year’s Easter Egg hunt is supported by Cadbury’s and runs from 2nd April.

And over the Easter weekend (2nd–5th April) The Happening History team will bring the past to life with shows depicting ‘Medieval surgery and medicine’ and ‘Medieval crime and punishment’. Family ticket £17. Free entry for National Trust members. to advertise call 01634 814364 5

Marke’s Ices Mobile event catering at its best!

01634 375324

www.markesices.co.uk

endtrinsks, ice v E g ortin e of cold ater

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Corporate Hire

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s not have artie P d n a y a s d ay ecial for your big la? yWinhgyhappy Birthd p ething sp u r pa rt y ir thday

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About Us

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To find out about hiring our vans or for information on our fundraising donation policy call 07768 072871 / 07833 953622 / 07827 443934 mark@markesices.co.uk / diane@markesices.co.uk robert@markesices.co.uk

Listings

What’s on this

Easter

Sunny dayS and neW beginningS. there’S lotS to do thiS eaSter holidayS to keep all your little chickS happy! friday 2nd april

friday 2nd april

easter bunny hunt, riverside country park, rainham Throughout the day from 11am–3pm (last entry 2.30pm). £1 per child. Booking essential 01634 337432.

easter crafts, Shorne Woods country park Make a gift for Easter from natural materials. £5 per child. 10am–12noon.

To book call 08458 247600

friday 2nd april

Saturday 3rd april

easter egg hunt at maidstone museum 10.30am–4.30pm Friday 2nd until Monday 5th April.

Solve the clues hidden round the museum to win a prize. £1 per child.

friday 2nd april the Wizard of oz, central theatre chatham Starring Joe Pasquale and Dani Harmer (CBBC’s Tracy Beaker).

Also on Saturday 3rd, Sunday 4th and Monday 5th April.

Tickets £17 for adults, £15 for children. www. thecentraltheatre. co.uk 8

high tech easter egg hunt, cobtree manor, maidstone Use satellites to hunt for treasure. 1–3pm. Call 01622 683695 to book.

Donations welcome.

Saturday 3rd april easter bunny hunt, Shorne Woods country park 10am–2pm. £4 per child. To book call 08458 247600

Sunday 4th april medway festival of Steam and transport, the historic dockyard chatham 2-day event (4th and

www.kentmama.co.uk

5th). Vintage cars, motorbikes, military vehicles, steam traction engines and more. Usual admission prices apply.

Sunday 4th april easter egg trail at Wildwood, nr herne bay Free trail and win a mini-egg. Craft sessions Monday– Friday both weeks from 2 to 3pm £2 per child. Book in advance. Usual admission prices also apply.

monday 5th april easter bunny hunt, capstone farm country park, gillingham Throughout the day from 11am to 3pm (last entry 2.30pm). £1 per child. Booking essential 01634 338191.

Wednesday 7th april bedgebury easter

event, bedgebury national pinetum Drop-in Easter event in the education room 11am–1pm.

Hunt the Easter bunny and make a chick card to take home. No need to book, children must be accompanied by an adult. £3 per child.

Wednesday 7th april make easter nests at maidstone museum 10.30am–12.30pm and 1.30–3.30pm drop-in event. £2 per child. Also Thursday 8th – make easter hats, Friday 9th – make animal masks, Monday 12th – make pom-pom animals, Thursday 15th – creepy crawly mobiles, Friday 16th – make spring flowers.

Wednesday 7th april Storytelling, craft and entertainment, medway mobile library Balloon art, circus tricks, make nature crowns, puppets and stories. 2–4pm High Halstow Village Hall. Also at Capstone Country Park 10am–12noon on Thursday 8th April followed by Cuxton at 2–4pm. And Cliffe Woods 10am–12noon on Friday 9th April.

Booking essential, call 01634 338319.

thursday 8th april pond dipping at Shorne Woods country park 11am–12noon and 1–2pm, £3.50. Ages 5-13 years. To book call 08458 247600.

thursday 8th april Seashore Safari, reculver country park, nr herne bay Hunt for marine creatures with Kent Wildlife Trust and find out how they have adapted to their environment. Meet at Reculver Visitor Centre at 2pm.

Wellies required.

Become a junior ranger for the day – making dens, looking for wildlife and playing games.

Suitable for ages 8– 12. £12.50 per child.

Booking required, call 08458 247600.

friday 9th april family Wildlife Walk, bredhurst Village 10am for approx 2 hours. Explore the village and woodlands looking for spring wildlife.

To book call 01622 683695.

Saturday 10th april modern pentathalon World cup, medway park The Modern Pentathlon World Cup runs from 8th –11th April. Men’s finals on Saturday 10th and womens’ finals on Sunday 11th April. For full details

see page 12.

Saturday 10th april Spring in mote park, maidstone Explore the mix of park, woodland and wetlands with Kent Wildlife Trust. Meet at 9am at the car park in Mote Park.

Saturday 10th april peppa pig at kent life, maidstone Pig football, pig racing and the chance to meet Peppa Pig as well as Easter crafts, newborn lambs and chicks.

Usual admission prices apply.

Saturday 10th april kent music in medway festival, central theatre, chatham Saturday 7:30pm Kent County Youth

Orchestra perform the best in classical music. Sunday 11th April at 7.30pm, the Kent Youth Wind Orchestra and Youth Choir perform a medley of Broadway showstoppers. www. thecentraltheatre. co.uk

Wednesday 14th april farmyard animal petting at maidstone museum Drop in to visit animals from Nepicar Farm including rabbits, sheep, lambs, chickens and pigs. 11am–3pm.

thursday 15th april beginners' fishing course, capstone farm country park Suitable for ages 8–12. All equipment and bait supplied. £8 per child. Book in advance on 01634 338191.

thursday 8th april Junior rangers, manor park country park, West malling to advertise call 01634 814364 9

A Great Place to meet, socialise & relax

Great for mums and dads alike!

Relax in our warm & friendly atmosphere, a slice of the continent on your doorstep... No wonder we have been called ‘Probably Rochester’s best coffee house’

146 HIGH STREET ROCHESTER 01634 540032

- Huge Selection of hot & cold beverages, handmade, cakes, freshly prepared panini & sandwiches!

- Space for buggies! (we’re child friendly...)

- Breast feeding welcome - Ladies Networking & Social evenings! (1st Wednesay of every month - from 19:30 till late) - Late opening till 10pm on Thursday, Friday & Saturday for ‘you time’ and we’re fully licensed

rochestercoffee.co.uk

THE

Rochester

COFFEE CO.

Renaissance Crafts

Paint Your Own Pottery

● Late night opening for adults ● Parties ● Large room for groups - Scouts, Guides, WI etc ● Baby footprints ● 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

10

www.kentmama.co.uk

Lynda Chambers trading as

School of Swimming Est: 10 years

Highly regarded, independent swim school.

ASA/RLSS qualified teacher coaches.

Children from 18mths to adults, including pre-school classes and adults only sessions.

Maximum 8 pupils per class.

Private 1-1ʼs & 1-2ʼs.

CLASSES IN MEDWAY MON, TUES, WEDS, THURS, SAT. ROCHESTER, UPNOR, WALDERSLADE, CHATHAM, FRINDSBURY, STROOD

CLASSES BOOKING NOW All abilities. Starting immediately or book ahead for April

FRIDAY 9th APRIL, 7.30pm at The Brook Theatre, Chatham Kent Youth Jazz Orchestra with special guests Snowboy and The Latin Section present

NEW CLASSES AT KINGS SCHOOL, ROCHESTER

SATURDAY 10th APRIL, 7.30pm

CLASSES NOW AT HILLTOP SCHOOL, FRINDSBURY

Lessons for children and adults: non-swimmers, beginners, improvers, advanced, survival and rookie lifeguard.

Tel: Lynda 07931 581125

at The Central Theatre, Chatham Kent County Youth Orchestra present

SUNDAY 11th APRIL, 7.30pm at The Central Theatre, Chatham Kent Youth Choirs and Kent Youth Wind Orchestra present

seahorseschoolofswimming@hotmail.com

“Teach your child a sur vival skill that will last a lifetime”

For further information please go to www.kent-music.com For tickets please go to: The Central and Brook Theatres, Chatham

Box Office: 01634 338338 www.whatsonmedway.co.uk

to advertise call 01634 814364

11

Francis Iles of Rochester The Art & Craft

EXPO

Medway

news

Good Friday 2nd April and Saturday 3rd April *11am

- 5pm at the Corn Exchange, Rochester.

Art and Craft to See and Do

HAND

S ON!

try a and new cr aft tak the r e home esul ts.

“Spend the day learning, watching and creating with 30 expert demonstrators and tutors from the Art & Craft world. There’s something for all ages and abilities - come and unlock your creative potential! For more information see our website www.artycat.com”

ns & Charles Eva colour with crylics, er A at g, W in , tt le Kids’ Tab sy Art, Kni ta an ing, F , nt ai an nim ting, Silk P Barry Her ga Art, Fel sonal er an P M , om ry fr Embroide Techniques *. g & Paper moree* Card Makin and many ft ra C o D s, on si Impres ay vary. subjects m *Topics &

Tickets £2 in advance, £3 on the door.

Group rate buy 3 tickets get 1 FREE (Enter Promo Code 107038 for Friday and 107039 for Saturday) Buy online at: www.whatsonmedway.co.uk or instore at: Art & Craft Works, 104 High St. Rochester. Tel: 01634 843881 * Early Bird deal: Buy your tickets in advance and admission is from 10am!

Supported by Medway Council

medway hosts pentathlon World cup The new £11m centre of sporting excellence, Medway Park in Gillingham, is hosting its fi rst international event this April. The Modern Pentathlon World Cup will feature more than 200 of the world’s leading

pentathletes, including Great Britain's Olympic silver medallist Heather Fell. The event comprises five sporting activities – fencing, swimming, riding, running and shooting. The four-day contest culminates in the

Arts and Crafts Expo

men’s final on Saturday 10th April and the women’s final on Sunday 11th April. Adult tickets cost £8 for a full day or £5 for a half day and children’s tickets are £5 and £3. For tickets and information www. mpwc2010.co.uk

Arts and crafts aren’t just for kids. Unleash your creativity at the Art & Craft Expo on Good Friday (2nd April) and Saturday 3rd April in Rochester’s Corn Exchange. Children can be kept busy on the kids' craft table while you try your hand at knitting, felting, card making, watercolours, silk painting, manga art and much more.

Run by Francis Iles of Rochester, and supported by Medway Council, the expo provides an opportunity to watch, learn and create, with more

BREAKING NEWS...

NEWS...BREAKING ● kent big day out 17,000 free tickets to Kent attractions are up for grabs for this year’s Big Day Out on 27th March. www. kentbigdayout.co.uk

than 30 expert demonstrations and tutors from the art and craft world.

Tickets are £2 in advance from Francis Iles 104 High Street, or online at www. whatsonmedway. co.uk or £3 on the door.

● fancy a free creme egg? The Rochester Coffee Co. have 500 to give away to this Easter.

To claim yours become a fan of the coffee shop at www. freecremeegg.co.uk ● earlier date for medway 11+ 2010 On 9th March Cabinet will decide whether the date of future Medway Tests (11+) should be brought forward to September. The decision will be posted on Medway Council's website.

Capstone and Riverside get a Makeover Visit Riverside and Capstone country parks and you’ll see some new additions to the play areas. Funded by the Big Lottery Project, Riverside has added a wrecked sunken ship, pond, climbing frames,

hidden tunnel, floor trampoline and double width slide.

Capstone received a grant from the DCSF Playbuilder Project specifically to provide more facilities for 8 – 13 year olds including a zip line, climbing frames and

roundabouts. Both parks have opted for natural materials in keeping with their surroundings and catered for disabled children in the design.

Currently under construction, the new play areas should be open by Easter. to advertise call 01634 814364

13

Kent Mama 148x210 24/02/2010 14:57 Page 1

KING’S SCHOOL ROCHESTER Co-educational for ages 3-18 Boarding from age 11 Financial assistance available

Open Morning Saturday 20th March 2010

GIVE YOUR CHILD A FLYING START… KENT’S MOST MODERN, PURPOSE-BUILT, NURSERY OPENING IN SEPTEMBER 2010 Telephone 01634 888555 www.kings-school-rochester.co.uk enquiries@kings-school-rochester.co.uk King’s School operates minibus services from Maidstone, West Malling and Rainham

14

www.kentmama.co.uk

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

11+ Preparation 2010

We can help your child prepare for the 11+ examinations in ●

English and Creative Writing ● Maths ● Reasoning

We offer ✔ a personal study programme ✔ individual tuition ✔ frequent practice tests ✔ a safe and focused learning environment

✔ fully qualified and experienced teachers (CRB checked)

✔ regular feedback and advice to parents

Copenhagenblue, 78 High Street, Rochester

Watch your child’s confidence and motivation to succeed grow.

Call now for a FREE ASSESSMENT on

01634 201777

or visit www.kipmed.co.uk E-mail kathrine@copenhagenblue.com to join our mailing list and win a £20 voucher to spend in store.

We are in Walderslade Village, Chatham. Free parking is available to advertise call 01634 814364

15

Fun, Food, Friends and Jamie!

Jamie at home is a new party plan business from Jamie Oliver that is taking the country by storm.

It’s a fun way to earn cash, have a party with friends and discover gorgeous, designer-led Jme kitchen and dinnerwear. Available exclusively through Jamie at Home parties.

If you are interested in hosting a party or want to share in Jamie Oliver’s success and be part of the team, contact: elizabeth moody 07770 888720 elizabeth.m@talktalk.net

Jamie at home

Educational advicE, assEssmEnts & tuition Full 11+ preparation. 98% success rate over many years. Over 300 students helped towards grammar school each year.

11+ Preparation Rainham Tuition Centre Help is at Hand Maths Literacy Verbal Reasoning Non Verbal Reasoning

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

www.rainhamtuitioncentre.co.uk

11+ Preparation in

Maths, English and VR Individual tuition by qualified teachers Max. 4 per class Frequent practice tests Regular feedback FREE assessment

Call Jane on 01634 400240

High Street, Rochester. www.kipmcgrath.co.uk

Very small group classes Classes for Yr 3 - Yr 11 Evenings & Weekends All public exams: SATs, 11+(Kent & Medway), GCSE, Common Entrance and Scholarships Holiday & revision programmes Handwriting courses One to one (subject to availability) Family

est 1987

Business

73a Maidstone Road, Rochester Please contact Mrs Clemens

01634 814420 18

www.kentmama.co.uk

● Bear Making Parties ● Great Gifts ● ● Clubs & Craft Workshops ● ● School Mascots ● Fundraising Ideas ●

www.blackberriebears.co.uk

0845 1161 848

★

★

ACE

★ PRINCESSES ★

Make your princess feel extra special

★ ★ ★ ★

Pamper parties for girls aged 6-12 Karaoke machine and dance mat Make friendship bracelets Temporay tattoos, mini manicure and make-over

★

★★ ★

£35 for five children ● £5 per extra child Party bags optional extra

A truly entertaining and magical show loved by children of all ages (3+)

07727 127900 / 07786 367505 www.aceprincesses.co.uk

Children’s magic shows ◆ Close-up magic Balloon modelling ◆ Learn circus skills

Little Poppets

Birthday parties, schools, nurseries, youth groups and corporate events

★★

★

Face Painting & Children’s Entertainment

Princesses, Pirates, Cinderella, Snow White, Tinkerbell, Superhero, Scooby Doo, Dora, HSM & Mamma Mia themed parties with lots of magical fun!!!

Ring Lisa on 01474 702523 www.littlepoppetsfacepainting.co.uk

Pure Glitz Every Girl’s Dream

Spectacular children’s glitter parties Have fun with the professionals and create a fabulous look for you and your special friends.

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

Plus fantastic Pure Glitz party bags For more information contact:

Nina 01634 408867 or Kate 01634 233688

www.pure-glitz.co.uk.

Call Chris on 01732 847808 or 07807 927637 www.christhemagician.co.uk

puppetmanofkent.co.uk royal Star, maidStone 1st Saturday of the month leedS caStle 21st & 22nd may hempStead Valley last Sunday of the month See website for further events

Book a Puppet workshop for your school or nursery For details ring Simon on 01622 752678

Le-Crease Ironing & House Cleaning Service Covering Medway and Maidstone Spic and span house clean, no job too big or small - own materials supplied Discount on bulk ironing - all professionally hanged and sleeved Call for a quotation today!

01634 317315 / 07910 098288 www.le-creaseironingservice.co.uk to advertise call 01634 814364

19

Designed for the modern day expectant and nursing mum

Pregnancy Evenings Temple Mill Children’s Centre, Cliffe Road, Strood 6pm to 8pm

8th March, 10th May & 12th July 2010 baby massage * yoga * midwives * cloth nappies homeopathy * breastfeeding * water birthing www.pregalicious.co.uk Buy on-line or visit our shop â—?

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Stylish, affordable, fashionable maternity wear Free maternity and feeding bra ďŹ tting and a wide choice of underwear Nursing wear. And comfy feeding couch for breastfeeding mums Changing bags, receiving blankets, baby vests and sleepsuits Gift vouchers and baby shower ideas Petite and tall sizes Mum and baby lotions

Unit 6 Royal Star Arcade High Street, Maidstone 01622 764570

Ju st Fo r K i d z

Quality uSed and nearly neW � children’s clothing � toys � prams and pushchairs � cots and nursery equipment � from prem baby to 5

Free treatments, demos and info. All stages of pregnancy welcome. Pop in anytime for an informal chat and to collect information.

For more details contact Georgina on 07870 409681 or Kim on 07957 339013

5JOZ UPVDIFT NBLF B IVHF EJGGFSFODF

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

Maternity Reexology For a happy, healthy pregna ncy Helping to ease: Sickness and nausea Back pain and sciatica Stress and anxiety Overdue baby Blood pressure uctuations Digestive disorders Sleep disorders Postnatal problems

new stock weekly. We buy and sell.

126 high Street, rochester (opposite casino)

01634 819887

open mon – Sat 10am til 5pm

www.just-for-kidz.co.uk 20

www.kentmama.co.uk

and more Georgina Strickland MAR 01634 313158 / 07870 409681

Medway maternity news

...EVENTS...EVENTS...

£5 osteopathy for new mums and babies

The European School of Osteopathy, on the outskirts of Maidstone, has launched a community scheme offering new mums and babies under one year a thorough osteopathic check up and ongoing

Birth Art Café comes to Medway As well as physical changes, pregnancy and birth is an emotional, psychological and spiritual journey too. The Birth Art Café is a new concept, where trained mentors enable pregnant women and new mums to explore their feelings, hopes and fears through creativity.

No art experience is required, Birth Art Café is about the process of exploration not the fi nished product.

Starting this March in Rochester, contact Deborah by email deborahruk@yahoo. co.uk or 01634 814275 for details.

treatments, for just £5 per session.

Osteopathy can help with headaches, back, coccyx and pelvic pains in mums and poor sleeping and feeding in babies. The scheme will be running until June 2010. Call 01622 685989 quoting ‘mother and baby scheme’ to book an appointment.

expert fit

With 80% of women wearing the wrongsized bra, it’s even more important to get an expert fitting when pregnant.

Lisa Skinner from Maidstone maternity wear shop Pregalicious says: “Maternity and nursing bras are one of our

biggest-selling items in the shop. Getting properly measured and trying on a range of bras to find a comfortable fit and the right style for you just can’t be done over the internet. Our staff are fully trained and we stock nursing and maternity bras in a wide range of styles. Visit their shop at Unit 6, Royal Star Arcade, Maidstone or www. pregalicious. co.uk

● naturally healthy pregnancy evening 6–8pm Southcote Clinic, Sittingbourne Road, Maidstone. Held every two months.

Upcoming dates 16th April and 11th June. Contact Emma on 07811 209452. ● antenatal breastfeeding Session with la leche league St Lukes Methodist Church, City Way, Rochester 10am–12 noon. Held on 4th Tuesday every other month. Upcoming dates 23rd March and 25th May. Call Jane on 01634 304203. ● medway pregnancy evening Temple Mill Children’s Centre, Strood 6–8pm Held every two months. Upcoming dates 10th May and 12th July. Contact Georgina on 07870 409681 ● east kent baby event 21st and 22nd May, Pfizer Social Club, Sandwich 10am– 4pm. Contact Sarah on 07878 668204 for tickets and details.

to advertise call 01634 814364

21

www.babysensory.com Online shop for educational wooden toys, puppets, fancy dress, baby accessories & more

Fabulous fun baby delevopment classes. Birth to 13 months. ● Classes in Detling,Sutton Valence & Maidstone ● FREE Trial Session Sensory activities to enjoy with your baby.

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Meadow Pre-school

Has been providing a welcoming, happy and safe environment for children to learn through play for more than 30 years. ● All day sessions including lunch club. ● Morning or afternoons also available. ● NOW BOOKING FOR SEPTEMBER

Find out what makes us special...

BOOK NOW FOR APRIL 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

www.kentmama.co.uk

15% off finders fee with this ad

Est.1996 ● Covering SE London & Kent

The professional and caring service

For Nannies & Baby sitters

Email: Karen@nannylink.co.uk

Albert Road, Rochester www.meadowpreschool.org.uk

22

NannyLink Ltd

Call: 01634 324645

Call 01634 814122

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

Call Julie on 07508 886213

Or visit our web site on

www.nannylink.co.uk

Classes in Medway, Maidstone and throughout Kent.

01622 662 589 www.waterbabies.co.uk

Want to meet other parents & parents-to-be in Medway?

Medway NCT provides independent information, support and a friendly place to meet other families as well as: * Antenatal classes * Breastpump hire * Baby/toddler group * Sling library * Postnatal courses * Saturday drop-in * Under fives parties * Nearly new sales

Our next Nearly New Sale is on:

: Saturday 24th April, 10.15-12noon,

at Rainham School for Girls.

You don’t need to be a member to come along to any of our events or meetings. For more information about the Medway branch call 08442 436 204 or visit

www.nctmedway.org.uk

to advertise call 01634 814364

23

Medway toddler talk march offer at toy library This March, All Saints Children’s Centre in Chatham is offering free membership and borrowing at their popular toy library.

Toys, games and multi-sensory toys for children aged 0-5 can be rented for two weeks. The one-off membership fee is normally £10 per

flying start at new nursery

family or £15 per childminder and the cost of borrowing items ranges from 50p to £2.

So sign up in March and pay nothing to join or borrow items that month. For details call the Playlink Team on 01634 338833.

in store online Who said socks had to be dull!

Skater socks £16.99 for six pairs www. thefunkyfairy.co.uk Great for Fathers' day - Fingerprint jewellery from Smallprint 01634 320722 Good enough to eat, this strawberry hat is £12.99 from www. thefunkyfairy.co.uk

children as young as three” says Sarah Skillern, Head of the Nursery and PrePrep school. Open to any parent, not just those intending to send their child to the school, they offer morning, afternoon and whole day sessions as well as additional before

New dads and babies group

Fluffy bunny and six bugs £23 from www. puppetmanofkent. co.uk

Soft pull along cow with attachable flower, £14.99 from www.totsntoys. co.uk 24

Famed for its long history and beautiful buildings and grounds – King’s School, Rochester is about to become home to one of the most modern nurseries in Kent. “Many parents don’t realise we offer care and education for

www.kentmama.co.uk

A new group for dads with babies under one year has started at Brompton Children’s Centre in Gillingham. Run from 10-11am on the first Saturday of the month, activities include baby massage, baby bounce and paediatric first aid.

And it's a chance to meet other dads with young babies.

They also run a group for dads, carers and grandads with children aged one and over. Call Pauline on 07535 696126.

the main school. We have a huge sports’ field, indoor sports’ hall, library, music rooms, ICT suites and even a small orchard area for forest school activities. The nursery has always been excellent, indeed we were recently rated as ‘outstanding’

by Ofsted, and the new nursery will further build on our strengths.”

The nursery is currently taking bookings for September 2010. For more information contact the school on 01634 888566 or drop in at their open morning on Saturday 20th March 9:30 – 11:30am to meet existing parents, talk with the Head and see plans for the new nursery development.

What’s On

call 0844 2436204.

Saturday 27th March, from 2.30pm – NCT Easter egg hunt and bonnet parade, Rochester High Street. £3 per child (under 5s). Booking essential. Contact

Saturday 24th April, Medway NCT Nearly New Sale, Rainham School for Girls. Doors open at 10.15am until 12 noon. www. nctmedway.org.uk

Monday 26th April, Real Nappy Week nappuccino , 9.30– 11.30am, Lordswood Children’s Centre.

Special offers, prizes, cloth nappies and chat to parents. www.medwaycloth nappies.org.uk

and after-school care and holiday clubs.

“The nursery can take children from 8am until 5:30pm, making it a very flexible option for both working parents or those just wanting a few sessions per week during term time” says Sarah.

The school is currently investing in a new purpose-built nursery.

This will provide a bright, stimulating and modern environment, with designated areas for messy play, quiet time, work space, snack area and free-flow access to the enclosed outdoor play space. “One of the great advantages is that our children have access to the extensive facilities of

Childcare to fit you

“A nanny fits in around your needs, rather than you having to fit in around opening times,” says Karen Coward of NannyLink.

“Parents think that nannies are expensive but the majority of nannies on our books charge between £6.50 - £10 per hour regardless of how many children they look after. Nannies come to you so they will still provide care if your child is sick or you’re home late.”

Karen works with parents within the ME and CT postcode areas to help find the right nanny for them. “All our nannies are fully qualified, CRB checked and have been reference checked. They can also be Ofsted registered so parents can use their child-care vouchers towards the cost. Hiring a nanny is an important decision and we’re here to help”. Contact Karen on 01634 324645.

to advertise call 01634 814364

25

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 www.lisajarrett@dinkydancers.com Free trial There’s nothing quite like Dinky Dancers

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

26

www.kentmama.co.uk

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Use discount code kentmama to get free postage

tel: 01634 711002 www.thefunkyfairy.co.uk Or visit our shop at The Mall, Bexleyheath. Open 7 days a week.

Blue Whale Swimming School (est 1995)

Family run â—? ASA qualifi ed teachers â—? Max 8 per class â—? For non-swimmers to pre-competitive â—? Classes every day of the week â—?

Venues:

Oaklands Junior, Chatham.

Math School, Rochester.

Kings School, Rochester.

Woodgrove School, Sittingbourne

BOOK NOW FOR APRIL 2010 tel: garry or nicola on 01622 741949 wimble175@btinternet.com book noW for the eaSter craSh courSe

to advertise call 01634 814364

27

Activities

Medway gets active! to coincide With the recent launch of a neW WebSite WWW.medWaygetSactiVe.co.uk We Spoke to Some local children’S SportS clubS to find out What they had to offer. karate kids Sensei Mark started karate in his early 20s, achieving black belt in Shotokan.

Two years ago he opened the Rochester Wadokye Karate Club and started mini-ninja, ninja kids and family karate sessions at Rochester’s Dance Junction. “Kids enjoy the games and learning karate,” says Mark “and we make the classes fun. The younger children have a short attention span so we keep the classes to 45minutes. As children progress and develop their skills they can work towards their gradings.” Classes run on a drop-in basis with no monthly fees and cost £2.50 for mini-ninjas, £3 for ninja kids and £4.50 if children attend two classes in one evening. “Anyone can turn up for a free session to see if they like it." For details about classes visit www.dance-junction. com or call 01634 404454.

28

www.medwaymama.co.uk

climbing club “No experience is needed” says Arethusa’s Mary Cutts “but a head for heights helps!” The Arethusa Venture Centre in Lower Upnor, near Medway City Estate, has four different climbing walls, both indoor and out, featuring ropes, slabs, overhangs, towers and archways. Rock Rats climbing club for 8 – 16 year olds, meets every two weeks on a Monday and Friday after school. “Our range of climbing walls means we can offer challenges for all climbing levels and abilities.” All equipment is provided. Sessions cost £8.50 plus annual membership of £9.

Booking is essential, so call the Centre on 01634 719933 or visit www. arethusa.org.uk

Cheerleading “It all started when I auditioned to be a cheerleader for Gillingham FC,” says Joleen Sture Barling, who runs Medway’s longest-established Synchronised Swimming cheer school. “I made the team and when the coach left, I took “The girls enjoy getting dressed up and putting on over”. With a degree in dance and the make up and, of course, lots of glitter!” says Lisa having gained her qualifications Bishop who runs Medway Mermaids synchronised in cheerleading, she set up MCDA swimming club. She and her team of four coaches and now runs weekly classes in teach swimmers aged 6 to 17. “At the moment we Chatham. Joleen teaches children only have girls, but boys are more than welcome. from age 4 to adult and has Members need to be able to swim 2 x 25m lengths squads who enter competitions and tread water.” As well as weekly training sessions and events throughout the UK. She on Saturdays and Tuesday (senior says: “Kids love the team spirit squad) they also work towards of cheerleading and it’s a recreational level awards and great way of keeping fit and competitions such as the Kent having fun. Classes start at County Championships.

Medway Sports £4. For more information Contact Lisa on 07941 Development Team has a about the club, call 871456 (after 6pm). list of more than 100 sporting Joleen on 01634 302385. clubs in Medway for children and adults. Search for clubs by sport Water Sports or location on their website www.

Sailing in the River Medway medwaygetsactive.co.uk or call is strictly a summer pastime them on 01634 338766 and so the Arethusa Water Sports they can give you a list of club runs from mid-April to clubs that match your mid-September. Activities requirements. include sailing, kayaking and

Did you know?

canoeing, playing games and having fun in the water.

Meeting every Thursday evening, there are sessions for 8-14 year olds and for ages 14-adult. Children need to be able to swim 50m unaided.

“We provide all the equipment, but participants need to bring a towel and change of clothes as they will get wet!” For under 18s, annual membership is £9 and each session costs £7. For details call 01634 719933 or email info@arethusa.org.uk to advertise call 01634 814364

29

r e t s a E t Greaveaways!

Gi Kent mama’s

We’Ve teamed up With kent-baSed buSineSSeS to offer you the chance to Win Some local goodieS.

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personalised child’s name frame from madeinpixieland.co.uk

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pottery painting night out for four adults at maidstone’s renaissance crafts

to enter: Simply email your name, contact email address and phone number to win@kentmama.co.uk, or log onto the competitions page on our website www.kentmama. co.uk to enter online. Alternatively send your name and phone number by post to Competitions, Kent Mama Magazine, 91 Maidstone Road, Rochester, ME1 1RL. One entry per person. Entries will be submitted into all individual prize draws.

Closing date 30th March 2010. Full terms and conditions available on our website.

30

www.kentmama.co.uk

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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.medwayfisd.com www.medway.gov.uk

01634 33 55 66

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