Kent Mama magazine Spring 2009

mama

KENT

issue 12 spring 2009

c

LOCAL HISTORY BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Where to see Spring lambs WHAT’S ON THIS EASTER

Local news, moneysaving vouchers and much more...

FREE

please take a copy

Choosing s g n i l s y Bab

From pregnancy to 11 years

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conTenTs

4 Woolly wonders

Where to see lambs in Kent this Spring.

8 history beyond the classroom

Places to visit that tie in with school history projects.

12 What’s on?

Activities and events for children this half-term and Easter.

17 local news

News, articles and information from your local area.

35 look no hands!

Unravelling the mysteries of baby slings.

38 kids talk parties

Ever wondered what children really think about birthday celebrations?

Local kids tell us what makes a good party.

42 What is a school nurse?

A behind the scenes look at the role of a school nurse, and common childhood bugs expained.

44 from cbeebies to cyberbullies

How to keep your child safe online.

42 save £££’s

Free classes, money off and discounts from local businesses to help you save cash this spring.

Editor: Lara Slavin 01634 814364 Sub-editor: Katharine Lang 01634 306321 Designer: Jackie Pugh 01634 849949 Printing: Headley Brothers, Ashford 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 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.

Welcome to Kent mama . . . . . . and our new-look spring issue covering the Medway and Maidstone area.

As an avid fan of make-over shows, I love the thought that with a little bit of effort you can make big transformations.

So when Jackie our designer suggested a freshen-up of the magazine, I thought it was a wonderful way to start the year and our expansion into the Maidstone area.

Having survived the first of the belt-tightening Christmases, we’re looking forward to spring and new beginnings. Most things look nicer when the sun’s shining (ourselves included) and the better weather means lots more possibilities for days out. And if there’s one good thing to come out of the current financial climate (and there probably is only one!) it’s the realisation that having children doesn't need to cost a fortune – some quality time spent listening, talking and laughing in the local park is more precious to them than any plastic toy. And it’s not a bad depression lifter for us too!

So in this issue we have a host of local activities for the February and Easter holidays, the best places to see baby animals this Spring and some great ideas for days out in Kent that tie in with school history projects. Many of the activities we feature are free or cheap and equally important – close to home.

So bah humbug to the doom and gloom of 2008 and let’s hope 2009 brings new beginnings for us all – or at least some fun days out.

Lara Slavin Editor

32,000 copies given to parents-to-be

and families in Medway and Maidstone.

For information, advertising or editorial contact Telephone: 01634 814364 Email: info@kentmama.co.uk Web: www.kentmama.co.uk to advertise call 01634 814364

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days out

Woolly wonders neWborn lAmbs hAve AlWAys been synonymous WiTh The sTArT of spring.

And WhAT beTTer WAy To AnTicipATe The WArmer monThs ThAn by seeing bAby AnimAls And Their mums doWn on The fArm. so here’s our pick of The besT plAces locAlly To see in The neW seAson.

hAdloW college: sATurdAy 14Th And sundAy 15Th mArch, 11Am – 4pm Once a year, Hadlow College, on the A26 between Maidstone and Tonbridge, opens its doors for Lambing Weekend. A true hidden gem in the spring season, it provides a chance to see a wide range of livestock in a non-commercial setting. On entering the college grounds you can see llamas, pigs and other animals before touring 4

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the tropical unit – home to snakes, spiders, reptiles and loads of other creepy crawlies.

This year they are expecting the birth of 54 single lambs, 263 sets of twins and 100 triplets or quads, so there’ll be plenty to see in the lambing shed. Hadlow College runs a range of full- and parttime courses in agriculture, horticulture, floristry, animal

management and equine studies and you can discover some fascinating behind-thescenes information by talking to students and tutors. Lots of fun activities such as wildlife walks and insect hunts mean this event represents excellent value at £10 per family (two adults, three children).

Visit www.hadlow.ac.uk or call 0500 551 434

eAsTer lAmbing fun: 4Th-19Th April rAre breed cenTre, neAr Ashford At the Rare Breed Centre, children can get up close and personal with a wide variety of animals. Little ones love the outside gated area where they can stroke the goats and sheep nibbling the grass, and inside in the children’s barn they can climb in the straw with piglets and see baby chicks, rabbits, pigs and donkeys. Open all year round, the centre is geared up to entertain whatever the weather and has a large indoor play area and assault course.

Bigger kids will like the spooky woodland walk and zip lines, and the animals are all within easy view of little people. The lambing events take place over the Easter holidays. They’ve timed this year’s lambing so there will be lots of newborns for visitors to see and there will be daily talks and activities.

The lambing event also marks the start of their highly

entertaining pigracing season.

Admission is £8 for adults and £7 for children, under 3s free.

The Rare Breed Centre is run by Canterbury Oast Trust, a charity that provides homes, care and occupational opportunities for adults with learning disabilities. So by visiting the RBC you’re helping a worthwhile cause too. For details ring 01233 861493 or visit www.rarebreeds.org.uk

fArming World, nr fAvershAm From their early beginnings as a pick-your-own-farm, Farming World has come a long way in the 15 years since it began.

What started as a shop, cafe

and a few animals has rapidly grown into an award-winning attraction which received more than 90,000 visitors last year including some 20,000 children from Kent schools. The owners' long background in traditional farming has enabled them to build an attraction that reflects the history and working practices of real farms.

With children of their own, they were also aware of the needs of families during a day out. Farming World now has hundreds of different species of animals, including heavy horses, ponies, cows, goats, llamas, alpacas and, of course, sheep.

Their ongoing breeding programme means that children can see baby animals all year round whether it’s lambs and

piglets or baby rabbits in their purposebuilt petting area.

Doors reopen on March 1st and there's a packed programme of activities for upcoming weekends and the Easter break. The farm is wheelchair and buggy friendly and has two large outdoor play areas, an under 5s area, jumping pillows and a sandpit.

There are also indoor activities, including a soft-play area, craft room and restaurant serving home-cooked food. Also on offer are tractor-and-trailer rides, birds of prey displays and a sensory garden. Admission is £7.50 for adults and £6.50 for children (aged 2+). Just off junction 7 of the M2, it's open 7 days a week 9.30am to 5.30pm.

Call 01227 751144 or visit www. farming-world.com to advertise call 01634 814364 5

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

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

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73a Maidstone Road, Rochester Please contact Mrs Clemens

01634 814420

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7:30pm – 11:30pm (lovely) £9 in advance/£10 on the door/£8.50 mailing list For more information about Mother Funkers or to buy tickets visit www.mother-funkers.com or call us on 01634 409347 For discounted tickets for the nights, news about future events and the chance to win tickets, sign up to our mailing list by emailing goodtimes@mother-funkers.com

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Farming World, Boughton, Faversham. (01227) 751144

Visit our award winning website: www.farming-world.com for further details of our attractions and special event days.

Open 9.30am - 5.30pm daily. Adults £7.50, Children £6.50 (2-15 yrs), concessions £6.50, sorry no dogs. Directions: M2, Junc 7.

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to advertise call 01634 814364 7

education

The Tudors

beyond the classroom Want to get the kids inspired about their latest class project?

The history our children study at school is all around us – you just need to know where to look. Steve Nye from Rochester’s Guildhall Museum tells us what there is to see and where can you find it locally.

We’ve all walked past the Six Poor Travellers’ House in Rochester High Street, but how many of us have been in? This is a Tudor Charity House, founded by local MP and philanthropist, Richard Watts, in 1563 to provide free lodgings for poor travellers. Children love the six tiny Tudor brick bedrooms, and the ‘secret’ garden at the rear.

This is a little island of tranquillity away from it all.

Upnor Castle is another hidden gem of local history. This castle was built on the orders of Queen Elizabeth in 1559 to help defend the English fleet based at Chatham dockyard. The castle is full of tiny rooms to explore (including those with Tudor toilets!), a clock tower to climb, and lots of grassy banks to roll down. It has a great view across the river, and is a lovely picnic spot. Upnor High Street is picturesque, with childfriendly pubs and a car park close by.

Invaders and Settlers: Anglo-Saxons

Maidstone Museum also has the biggest selection of Anglo-Saxon items from Kent, including beautiful garnet and gold jewellery and rock-crystal pendants, as well as swords and spears from warrior burials.

Invaders and Settlers: Romans

Ancient Egyptians

A great place to see Egyptian collections is Maidstone Museum.

You can see ‘The Lady of the House, Ta-Kesh, Daughter of Osiris’ –a real 2,700 year-old mummy (a little scary perhaps for younger viewers!). There are lots of other Egyptian items on display too, including artwork, pottery and toys which give a good ‘feel’ for these people.

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What did the Romans do for us? Find out more, at the Canterbury Roman Museum. Situated underground at the level of the Roman town, it’s an exciting mix of excavated real objects, reconstructions and the preserved remains of a town house with its famous mosaics.

There’s plenty to make and do, computer interactives and objects to touch.

Victorian Childhood & Locality

To find out about the Victorians look no farther than the Guildhall Museum in Rochester. Here the entire ‘Part Two’ building is devoted to the Victorians, including a whole gallery of Victorian toys. Upstairs is a recreated living room and kitchen with music and figures in costume. There is also a short film about Charles Dickens, the famous Victorian novelist. The shop sells pocketmoney price gifts.

The Great Fire of London

Getting there

Maidstone Museum is free. It is located in St Faith’s Street, opposite the Fremlin Walk shopping centre. Open Mon - Sat 10am – 5.15pm, Sun 11am – 4pm. Arriva operates a Park and Ride for Maidstone Borough Council, offering free attended parking, a quick ride into town and a cheap bus fare.

Canterbury Roman Museum is located in Stour Street just off Canterbury High Street.

Open Mon - Sat 10am – 5pm (last admission 4pm), Sun (June to end October) 1.30pm – 5pm (last admission 4pm). Admission Adults £3, Concessions £2, Family £7.90. For details of events call 01227 785575 or visit www. canterbury-museums.co.uk The Six Poor Travellers’ House in Rochester High Street is free. Open March to October, 10.30am – 4.30pm.

Upnor Castle Admission: Adults £4.50, children, students and concessions £3.50, family ticket £12.50. Open March 21 - Sept 30, 10am – 6pm, October 1-31, 10am – 4pm.

The Museum of London is free. Nearest tubes Barbican, St Paul’s or Moorgate. Open Mon to Sun 10am - 5.50pm (last admission 5.30pm).

The Guildhall Museum in Rochester is free.

Open Tues to Sun 10am – 4.30pm (last admissions 4pm).

The Spitfire and Hurricane Memorial Museum at RAF Manston is ������������� free, but donations are welcomed. Open 10am - 5pm British Summer Time (closes at 4pm in winter).

Although the City of London is full of modern development, there are still plenty of historic sites to visit, best explored on foot. For children interested in the Great Fire, the starting point must be Pudding Lane (Monument tube or Cannon Street station).

Here is The Monument, built to commemorate the Great Fire. This will reopen in December following repairs, and is highly recommended for While we make every effort to ensure times, more energetic visitors! Climb 311 steps to the dates and prices are correct, please contact top (for which you are given a certificate!) to see the location in advance to confirm these. many of London’s famous landmarks. From the Monument, walk along Cannon Street to St Paul’s Cathedral. This The Second World War magnificent building Kent played a special part in the Second represented the new World War, being the closest part of London that arose from England to the Continent and at the the ashes of the Great forefront of the conflict during the Battle Fire. From here, turn up of Britain. A visit to The Spitfire and St Martin’s Street to the Hurricane Memorial Museum at RAF Museum of London. This Manston, near Ramsgate, shows not has a gallery about the only these two famous aircraft, but also Great Fire of London, much other wartime memorabilia. Also including a small sound to be seen is one of the dambusters’ and light show, and a famous bouncing bombs, and the special exhibition called breathtaking Battle of Britain Tapestry.

‘London’s Burning’ until This was inspired by the stained glass winter 2009. There is windows of Westminster Abbey, and was also a large walk-through started by pilots recovering in hospital Roman gallery for those after the war. There is an excellent café wanting to learn more and souvenir shop. about the Romans.

to advertise call 01634 814364

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Personalised chocolate bars for all occasions Ideal for party bags, weddings favours, birth announcements, thank yous and more

Natural Therapy for Mother and Baby EFT Practitioner specialising in Women’s Issues.

Safe & gentle, based on the same principles as acupuncture. ] Fertility issues ] Pregnancy ‘symptoms’ ] Birth preparation ] Fear of birth Treatments include Self-Help ] Medway Clinic ] Other Issues Treated Healing and Relaxing for Mother and Baby FREE INFO PACK ~ 0700 345 0165 www.sandyhartley.co.uk www.eft4motherandbaby.info

Unique and affordable children’s clothing

Looking for a special outfit for your child, everyday wear with a difference or a beautiful gift.

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Two mum families Two dad families We are looking to set up a friendly and informal support group for other lesbian and gay parents and their children in the mid-Kent area.

If you are interested in meeting other parents and families and sharing support, encouragement and fun please contact Heather on skylight99@blueyonder.co.uk

to advertise call 01634 814364

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days out

What’s On

February Half Term Saturday 14th

Riverside Country Park, Rainham. ‘Aren’t Birds Brilliant’ – week-long RSPB event for adults and children, including giant telescopes and birdrelated fun activities. Free.

Sunday 15th

Shorne Woods Country Park, Nr Gravesend – Building nest boxes, 10.00–12.00, £2.50 per child. Book on 01474 823800.

Monday 16th

Maidstone Museum.

Makeasaurus – 3D sand dinosaur bone pictures 10.30– 12.30 and 13.30–15.30. Under 12s. £2 per child Leeds Castle, Maidstone.

Running a ‘Big Dig’ all week where kids can dig up artefacts from giant sand boxes. Normal admission prices apply.

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Trosley Country Park, nr Maidstone. Build a nest box.

Children to be accompanied by an adult. £5 per box. Advance book on 08458 247600.

Monday 16th to Saturday 21st

Wednesday 18th

Capstone Country Park, Medway. Explore local woodland and wildlife on their guided family wildlife walk.

11.00 – 13.00. Free.

Thursday 19th

Spotlites Theatre Company, Kings Theatre, Chatham. Half term drama workshops: Camp Rock, Star Wars, Dr Who, HSM3, Fantastic Mr Fox. Ages 5-14 years, £7 per child. Book ahead on 01634 403737.

Capstone Country Park, Medway. Children’s forestry skills, basket weaving, mallet making. 10.00 –12.00, ages 5-12, £3 per child. Book ahead on 01634 338191.

Tuesday 17th

Maidstone Museum. Netsuke – make a Japanese container on a key chain 10.30–12.30 and 13.30–15.30. Under 12s, £2 per child.

Tyland Barn Visitor Centre, nr Maidstone. Celebrating “Darwin 200”. Explore the characteristics of bones and fossils and discover what leads to the survival of the fittest.

Activities for all ages. 11.00– 15.00. £2 per child. To book a place call 01622 662012.

Friday 20th

Easter Holidays April 4th to 19th

Rare Breed Centre, Ashford.

Lambing Fun. Normal admission prices apply. www. rarebreeds.org.uk

April 7th

Tyland Barn, Maidstone.

Celebrating “Darwin 200”.

Looking for signs of Spring 11.00–15.00. £2 per child. Book ahead on 01622 662012.

April 9th

Maidstone Museum. Teddy Bears’ picnic – make a felt teddy bear and join the picnic.

10.30–12.30 and 13.30–15.30.

Under 12s £2.50 per child.

April 10th

Riverside Country Park.

Easter Bunny Hunt 11.00–15.00. £1 per child. Book in advance, 5-12s, 01634 337432.

April 10th to 13th

Farming World, Faversham.

Easter weekend: falconry, Easter egg hunts, crafts and Madhatters tea party. Normal admission prices apply. www. farming-world.com

April 12th & 13th

Shorne Woods Country Park.

Easter Bunny Hunt 10.30–12.30, £3 per child.

April 12th & 13th

Historic Dockyard Chatham, Medway Festival of Steam and Transport. Event pricing applies. www.chdt.org.uk

April 13th to 17th

Farming World, Faversham.

Creepy Crawlies week.

Reptiles, arachnids and crafts.

Normal admission prices apply. www.farming-world.com

April 13th

Capstone Country Park. Easter Bunny Hunt 11.00 – 15.00. £1 per child. Book in advance on 01634 812196.

April 16th

Maidstone Museum. Animals from Nepicar Farm will be visiting 10.00 – 14.00. Free.

April 17th

Capstone Country Park. Welly Walk, 10.00–11.30. Free.

While we make every effort to ensure times, dates and prices are correct at time of going to press, please contact the location in advance to confirm these.

For further details of these events and more visit www. kentmama.co.uk

to advertise call 01634 814364

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

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CallAnnaWeir01622710536 07950703676

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20 Years health visiting experience Specialising in: Childhood Behaviour Problems Sleep problems • Depression • Anxiety Lack of Confidence • Infant Colic • Crying Baby Contact: Caroline Harris BFRP Tel: 07821 008238 Email: chrainbows@blueyonder.co.uk

Mobile Hair Salon Going miles for styles Friendly professional service for all the family. Medway and Maidstone Areas.

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Visit www.mobilehairsalon.co.uk for info, prices and upcoming trends or call Vanessa on 01634 353498 or 0795 7791472

Holiday Gites in the Loire Valley lHeatedswimmingpool,earlySpringtolateAutumn

Enjoy family time, lazy days, rural peace Choice of two family-friendly properties l Selection of traditional French towns nearby l Easy drive from harbour or airport l

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Therapeutic and Sports Massage Deep Tissue Massage to ease and prevent:

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Renaissance Crafts

R ochester

School of Dance Samantha Seenan A.I.S.T.D. Fun and friendly classes in I.S.T.D. Ballet, Tap and Modern/Jazzfromage three to adult.

Book now for the Spring term and enjoy working towards our annual production at the Brook Theatre, Chatham.

Classes are held at Woodies Youth Centre, Arethusa Road, Rochester.

For further information call Samantha Seenan on 07710 547672

Paint Your Own Pottery Contemporary Ceramic Painting is a fantastic hobby and is suitable for all ages and abilities, no previous experience necessary. l Make original gifts l Ideal for children's and adult parties, charity and corporate events l Baby footprints l Signature plates l Commissions l Late night opening

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Lynda Chambers trading as

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We provide personal professional tuition by qualified teachers for children aged 6-16 in l English l Maths l Reading

11+ 2009 The Kip McGrath Education Centre Walderslade is enrolling for 11+ tuition NOW Full preparation for the 11+ cannot be achieved in a short period of time.

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ASA/RLSS qualified teacher coaches.

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MedWay Business

Keep it local mosT of us knoW someone Who Works for or runs A smAll business. They Are viTAl To our locAl economy, serving people in medWAy And mAidsTone And keeping money in our ToWns. behind locAl businesses Are husbAnds, Wives, mums And dAds. And iT’s up To us To supporT Them. here We look AT some of The people behind The AdverTs… signATure sWeeTs

We all love chocolate. So when Natalie Jarvis saw an ad for personalised chocolate bars she felt it would be a family-friendly business that would utilise her previous career in marketing.

Originally from Canada, Natalie now lives in Medway with her husband and toddler. She set up www.signaturesweets.co.uk in October 2008. With more than 70 designs that can be personalised with names, photos and messages, they make a tasty addition to party bags and a yummy way to announce a birth, invite friends to a party or a unique wedding favour.

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www.kentmama.co.uk

spoTliTes TheATres compAny

Kings Theatre (beside Gala bingo, 338 High Street, Chatham) is a true find for creative kids who like to get involved. Run by Spotlites Theatre Company it specialises in theatre for children and young people. Says artistic director Rachel King: “We stage many professional unique interactive shows, for kids (aged 4-12) who don’t just want to sit still and watch! Children join in with the actors onstage; protecting Aurora with sonic screwdrivers in ‘Sleeping Beauty & the Time Lords’, defeating the evil Lord Moldipork with spells in ‘Three Potter Pigs’ and defending the tower with a real light sabre in ‘Rapunzel – may the force be with you!’ On February 14th we present the premiere of ‘The Magic Porridge Pot’, an interactive play for 3-6s which is our first play for little ones! In the school holidays we hold regular drama workshops. And we offer drama birthday parties (for 5-16yrs) on any theme that you like – Star Wars, Harry Potter, fairies - held on stage at our theatre. In short, Spotlites is about creating innovative theatre and performing arts for, with and by children and young people!” For details about upcoming shows, holiday workshops and weekly drama and singing classes for children, visit www. spotlites.co.uk call 01634 829468.

Renaissance Crafts

Step into Renaissance Crafts in Maidstone’s Starnes Court off Union Street and you couldn’t ask for a more friendly welcome. Husband and wife Geoff and Wendy opened Renaissance Crafts in 2007. Having enjoyed pottery evening classes, Wendy bought a kiln and started by running a mobile pottery businesses until finally setting up her own studio. “Paint your own pottery is great fun for all ages,” says Wendy. “We have children making gifts for grandparents and parents, women wanting a fun activity with friends and retired people looking for a rewarding hobby. It’s lovely seeing mums, who perhaps haven’t painted since school, picking up the brush and totally switching off from their day-to-day lives to produce a beautiful plate or vase. We do lots

of parties for children and adults and no two pieces are ever the same so it’s exciting seeing the finished products.” Open Mon-Sat with late night bookings on Thursdays, visit www. renaissancecrafts.co.uk or call 01622 750467.

Marke’s Ices

With many years’ experience, the family-run, Rainham-based business Marke’s Ices does more than pay lip service to customer care. Says Mark: “We have two children, Robert and Bonita, so we know that small changes can make a big difference.

Ice-cream vans are great fun and our business has grown because we continue to look for ways to improve our service. A local group recently hired our vans for an event where there would be a number of autistic children and advised us it would be difficult for them to choose from the wide variety of products on the window display. So we came up with simple flash cards showing our popular lollies and ice creams – making it much easier for them to choose. We believe all children should feel comfortable buying from our vans, so shortly before Christmas I sent all staff on a sign language course.

We serve hundreds of children at events in Kent and the South East and I feel it’s our duty to make sure we can communicate with them.” Husband-and-wife Mark and Diane offer a range of services from event hire, sports days, fairs and fetes, where schools and charities receive a generous donation, through to their fantastic party service where the van arrives with the chimes playing happy birthday and the birthday child learns to twirl their first ice cream and serve their friends. They have also recently added hot dogs to their vans and spent time sourcing the best-quality product. For more information or to book them for an event or party, contact Marke’s Ices on 0776 8072871 or visit www.markesices.co.uk to advertise call 01634 814364

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Targeted advertising works.

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www.kentmama.co.uk

Tel: 0800 112 3189 Email: enquiries@medwayminders.co.uk www.medwayminders.co.uk

✊

Sparkles Glitter Parties

✊

Fun make-over parties ✊ for girls of all ages. ✊ ✊ Hair, nails, jewellery, craft, make-up, karaoke, party ✊ games and more. ✊ Call: 01634 376270 ✊

✊ ✊

Beauty Room

Nail extensions âœť facials âœť waxing mobile bridal make-up âœť manicures pedicures âœť non-surgical face lifting lash and brow âœť massage âœť spray tanning âœť reflexology âœť electrolosis âœť and ear piercing

25% off

IN TRODUCTO RY OFFER

Call Sally on 01634 375999 or 07957 242268

14 Hoath Lane, Wigmore. Gift vouchers available.

The proven way to reach your potential new customers is to target them effectively.

We can offer you an opportunity to reach 32,000 parents in mid-Kent. And with prices starting at just £35 there’s no better way to promote your business to families near you.

Call 01634 814364

Helping you take control of your life.

We’ve helped thousands of people just like you take that important step towards a more secure future and get back to work.

If you’re looking for a job, then we can help you: • Be better off • Develop your confidence and learn new skills • Undertake a work placement • Find a job that’s right for you

If you’re looking for a new challenge and want to move forward to a brighter future, then talk to us. We are already working with a range of employers in your area.

• Direct access to job vacancies • Free, impartial advice • Access to jobsearch resources • Training to meet your needs including a range of short courses

Let us help you - call TNG on 0845 600 4014 today.

AVA/TNG/MA/1029/V1

Outreach_leaflet_Kent_v1.indd 2

11/08/2008 14:52:56

to advertise call 01634 814364

21

Cherubs

Montessori Day Nursery Flexible sessions R Ages 0-5 years R 51 weeks a year Open Mon - Fri 7am-7pm

Call to request a brochure 01634 716282 5 Castleview Road, Strood, Kent, ME2 3PP email: info@cherubs.net website: www.cherubs.net

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 * Valley cushion hire * Sling library * Postnatal drop-in * Saturday drop-in * Under fives parties * Nearly new sales

:

Our next Nearly New Sale is on: Saturday 25th April 2009 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 22

www.kentmama.co.uk

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

01634 33 55 66 to advertise call 01634 814364

23

ws Medway news Medwa

free sWimming FoR aLL undeR 16s in MedWay

Yes, that’s not a misprint. Originally scheduled for April 2009, advance NHS funding has enabled Medway Council to offer free swimming sessions to all under 16s in Medway at the following pools: Black Lion, Strood, Splashes, Hoo and The Strand. There are no restrictions on times or days of the week provided it is within their usual public swimming sessions and free swimming for under 16s is government funded until 2011. So dive in!

neW children’s clothing shop opens in chatham “We’ve always had a passion for fashion” say Stan and Ada, owners of unique children’s clothing boutique nDa that’s just opened on the first floor of the Pentagon Centre in Chatham.

“We wanted to bring high-quality children’s clothing at affordable prices to parents in Medway, giving them the choice of buying something different from the usual high-street fare.” With grown up children of their own, the Rochester-based couple have worked in clothing and retail for many years. Ada’s background as a designer has led to her creating her own line which will soon go into production in London and will be stocked in the shop.

They sell quality everyday wear and special occasion party wear, suits and bridesmaid dresses for children aged 0-12, www.ndaclothing.co.uk with some stock ranging to age 14.

24

www.kentmama.co.uk

Tuition centre celebrates first birthday To support children intending to sit the 11+, teacher Deborah Martin set up the Rainham Tuition Centre in February 2008 to provide the skills and practice necessary to enable them to approach the exams with confidence. Says Deborah: “The 11+ can be daunting, so it’s important to be prepared.

We structure learning round the subjects tested and simulate exam conditions so that the children are confident of the kind of questions they’ll be asked and how to answer them quickly. Our 1st year was a great success with more than 70% passing the Medway test and 80% the Kent test. 2009 will be our first full year of tutoring so we’re looking forward to building on our good work.”

Visit www.rainhamtuitioncentre. co.uk or call 05602 538882.

ay news Medway news Me deadline approaching for primary school applications If your child’s fifth birthday is between September 1, 2009, and August 31, 2010, you need to fill out an application form for a place in the reception year of an Infant or Primary School before March 2.

Forms are available from Medway Council’s schools admissions team or online at www.medway.gov.uk/ schooladmissions. You can also approach schools directly to get a form.

The Council produces a helpful booklet giving details of all the 85 primary, infant and junior schools in Medway and their entry criteria. Before making your preferences (you can list two schools) you may find it useful to look at Ofsted reports (www.ofsted.gov.uk) as well as visiting the school in action to see if it feels right for your child. For information and advice, contact the admissions team at Medway Council on 01634 331110.

neW yeaR… neW staRt

If you’re serious about getting back to work, a new project in Medway run by TNG can give you the support and assistance you need to find and sustain a full-time, part-time or term-time job.

On the Chatham based TNG pre-employment training programme, funded by the European Social Fund, you’ll receive advice from experienced job advisers, have the opportunity to gain training to meet your needs and access information on local job opportunities.

Anyone who is unemployed, whether on benefits or not, can apply, making it ideal for women looking to return to work after bringing up a family. The eight-week course starts every two weeks and classes take place in the mornings so can usually be fitted round childcare commitments.

Tracy Hicklin, TNG course mentor, says: “We want to help people get back to work, so we try to accommodate each individual as much as possible, particularly lone parents or those with family commitments. The course is about giving you the confidence and skills to get back to work. We can even provide funding for short courses such as food hygiene courses, childcare courses, forklift truck driving courses, if you’ve identified a job opportunity at the end of it. So it’s not just another course - we have real vacancies on our books and from day one focus on providing you with what you need to get that job.” For more information the courses or to book a place at the introductory information session, contact TNG on 0845 600 4014.

kenT’s big dAy ouT

On March 28th, 2009, Kent residents will be able to visit some of the county’s attractions for free. Tickets must be applied for in advance. For more details see www.visitkent.co.uk/explore/ big-day-out.asp. to advertise call 01634 814364

25

PRe-scHooL

Toys for hire As pArenTs, We All knoW The benefiTs of librAries: A chAnce To geT neW kids’ books every Week for free, or WATch A video A feW Times Then give iT bAck When They’re bored WiTh iT. Well now you can do the same with toys! Several Sure Start Children's Centres have set up toy libraries. Open to all parents in Medway with children under 5, they are a wonderful way to try toys you might not normally buy, or borrow something for a particular stage in their development without increasing the toy mountain at home.

We spoke to outreach workers at Lordswood, Strood and Gillingham to find out how the toy libraries work.

WoodlAnds cenTre, gillinghAm

The library is open every Wednesday from 9.15-10.15 and 3.30-5.00. There’s an annual fee of £10 per parent, £15 for childminders or £25 for nurseries/pre-schools. Parents can borrow up to four pieces at a time free of charge and keep them for a week or two.

"Baby equipment and sensory toys are always popular" says Sarah Hammell.

They also have larger items such as bikes, ride-on cars, mini trampolines, kitchens and construction sets.

bligh cenTre, sTrood

‘Stacking toys and musical baby toys are our most hired items,” says Cathy Pullen. “We lend dress-up kits with extra items 26

www.kentmama.co.uk

so that siblings can play too, and we have arts, crafts, playdough and paint kits for hire.”

There is no annual fee; each item costs 50p per fortnight.

The catalogue also includes larger items such as pop-up shops, pirate tents and tunnels.

lordsWood cenTre

Ang Hulott who runs the Lordswood toy library combines her Wednesday

morning toy library (9am –11.30am) with a breakfast and book session. “We have lots of CD and story book packages and role play bags. For example, our Monsters Inc. bag contains a book, DVD and Sully costume. To join we ask for a proof of address and an annual fee of £10 per family. You can then take out one item per child free of charge and keep it for as long as you want.

A well-established toy library is also run at All sAinTs

children’s cenTre in chAThAm. For information,

contact Eileen Braham. And at

brompTon WesTbrook children’s cenTre,

Community Liaison Officer Pauline Bovis has a range of sensory development equipment that can be lent, free of charge, to parents of children with disabilities.

centres in Medway 7

1. Bligh 2. Temple mill 3. All Faith’s

2 1

4. Brompton

5 6

3

5. Burnt oak

4 9 8 CHATHAM

11

6. Saxon 10 Way Hand 10

12

11. Wayfield

13

2 Temple Mill Temple Mill Primary School, Cliffe Road, Strood ME2 3NL Phone 01634 338200 3 Gun Lane All Faiths’ Children’s Community School, Gun Lane, Strood ME2 4UF Phone 01634 717115 4 Brompton Brompton Westbrook Primary School, King’s Bastion, Brompton, Gillingham ME7 5DQ Phone 01634 844152 5 Burnt Oak Burnt Oak Primary School, Richmond Road, Gillingham ME7 1LS Phone 01634 334344

11 Wayfield Wayfield Primary School, 13. Oaklands Wayfield Road, Chatham 14. Lordswood ME5 0HH Phone 01634 843544 12. Kingfisher

14

1 Bligh Bligh Infant School, Bligh Way, Strood ME2 2XJ Phone 01634 710154

in hand Infant School, Twydall Lane, Gillingham 8. All Saints ME8 6JS 9. Woodlands 10.Phone Twydall 01634 365985 Twydall 7. Grain

6 Saxon Way Saxon Way Primary School, Church Path, Ingram Road, Gillingham ME7 1SJ Phone 01634 852320 7 Grain St James’ Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School, Isle of Grain, ME3 0BS Phone 01634 270341 8 All Saints All Saints Surestart Children’s Centre, Magpie Hall Road, Chatham ME4 5JY Phone 01634 338833

12 Kingfisher Kingfisher Primary School, Kingfisher Drive, Walderslade, ME5 7NX Phone 01634 335850 13 Oaklands Oaklands Infant School, Weedswood Road, Walderslade, ME5 0QS Phone 01634 861423 14 Lordswood Lordswood Infant School, Lordswood Lane, Lordswood ME5 8NN Phone 01634 861525

9 Woodlands Woodlands Primary School, Woodlands Road, Gillingham ME7 2DU Phone 01634 338370 to advertise call 01634 814364

27

St Justus’

Montessori Day Nursery Clifton Close, Strood, Kent

EK IJ D UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT Our qualified staff have a minimum of 15 years childcare experience Extended opening times 8am – 6pm, Monday – Friday Providing high-quality care for 2-5 year olds Free funded places also available Good ofsted report For further information or to arrange a visit call Rose on 07954 230563 or Angela on 07932 741881 28/2/08

11:56

Crest Road, Rochester ME1 2QA l FREE funded places available for 3-4 year olds l Open: term time 9-11.30am or 12:40-3:10pm

l High-quality care and appropriate child-centred curriculum l Secure outside play area l New purpose-built foundation stage unit

Open 51 weeks a year

Half page ad:Layout 1

Delce Nursery and Infant School

Page 1

For further information or to arrange a visit please phone

01634 844127

or email office@delceinf.medway.sch.uk

Reusable nappies can save you money, and they are good for the environment as well.

£30

incentiv e now availabl e Medway Council is offering a £30 incentive to parents buying real nappies.

For further information please phone the Waste Minimisation Team on 01634 333333 or email wasteminimisation@medway.gov.uk

www.medway.gov.uk/nappies 28

www.medwaymama.co.uk

Looking for fun for little ones?

Enjoy a FREE fun trial session for babies and children!

Great songs & activities Amazing puppets & fun music making Birthday parties and nursery sessions also available Classes in Rainham, St Mary’s Island, Rochester and Walderslade

Call Jo on 01634 670370

Returning to work?

ery

K id s

et Nu e r

rs

t

www.caterpillarmusic.com medway@caterpillarmusic.com

Visit our excellent Nursery High-quality care & facilities for 3 months to 5 years Conveniently close to station and town centre Normal opening 7.30am to 6.30pm

Ring 01634 848222 to arrange a viewing Jenkins Dale, Chatham Tel 01634 848222 www.kidstreet-nursery.com to advertise call 01634 814364

29

Medway Maternity News pregnAncy evenT groWs

WhAT is A… bAch floWer prAcTiTioner

As part of our regular series on therapies, we spoke to retired health visitor and Bach flower practitioner Caroline Harris.

“Bach Flower Remedies are plant-based remedies developed in the 1930s by Dr Edward Bach. He believed there was a link between mental and physical health and developed a way to re-balance a person’s emotions in order to improve their health and wellbeing. There are 38 remedies, each corresponding to a different emotion. They are simple to take, safe, and work in a gentle way, making them suitable for the whole family. They are particularly helpful during pregnancy, labour and the postnatal period.

They have been used successfully to treat unsettled colicky babies as well as children with sleep problems or behavioural difficulties.

A consultation lasts about an hour after which you will be given a bottle containing a mixture of the remedies selected for you which will last for approximately three weeks.”

For more information, contact Caroline Harris on 07821 008238

Medway’s bi-monthly pregnancy event is expanding to a new bigger venue. Organiser Tamsin Meredith says: “We’re really gaining momentum and the event is becoming better known and increasingly popular so we wanted to find somewhere that had good access for local parents, plenty of parking and, most importantly, lots of space for parents-to-be and grandparents-to-be and our exhibitors.” The evenings provide a relaxed and informal way to chat to midwives, health visitors, representatives from Medway Family Information Service, babymassage specialists, lactation consultants, maternity reflexologists and many more. The next event takes place on Monday, March 2nd at Temple Mill Children’s Centre, Cliffe Road, Strood. Free of charge, you can drop in anytime between 6pm and 8pm. Contact Tamsin on 07976 113961 for information.

mAgic Touch CAL OR A LO PORT GROUP? F G IN K SU P LOO .uk EEDING dway.org ing BREASTF e m in g in astfeed site list www.bre ellent local web contact c is an ex es, venues and eeding im t dates, f all the breastf in and o details support groups dway. near Me 30

www.kentmama.co.uk

After 12 years spent commuting to London, Melanie King decided to embark on a more rewarding career and trained as a massage therapist. Following the birth of her first child last year, she became aware of the many benefits of baby massage to soothe her baby’s physical and emotional needs and to help them bond. She is now accredited by the Guild of Infant and Child Massage and is starting new Medway-based courses in baby massage and baby yoga this spring. Suitable for babies from six weeks, classes provide a wonderful, relaxing way to spend time with your little one. Contact Melanie on 07803 164250 or visit www.tinytouches.co.uk

Baby Massage Courses

Learn the skills and benefits of baby massage for both you and your baby in a friendly, relaxed environment.

Group sessions and one-to-one tuition available from a qualified instructor.

NEW Medway courses starting February Baby yoga and soft stretching classes also available.

For details and information contact Melanie King on:

0780 3164250

melanie.king@tinytouches.co.uk www.tinytouches.co.uk

Tiny Touches that make a huge difference

Pregnancy Evenings At Temple Mill Children’s Centre, Cliffe Road, Strood 6pm to 8pm 2009 - 2nd Mar, 11th May, 6th July, 7th Sept and 2nd Nov

For individual help with

Breastfeeding • Before your baby is born: to learn and deal with your concerns • After your baby is born: if you and/or your baby are having difficulties

Deborah Robertson IBCLC Lactation Consultant

01634 814275

www.breastfeedingspecialist.com to advertise call 01634 814364

31

Medway Toddler Talk

bAby signers WAnT more

cloTh boTToms

Sing and Sign classes, where babies from 6 months to 3 years and their parents can learn to communicate simple everyday phases using baby signing, are proving so popular that two new classes have been added. Says course leader Lorraine Murray: “Watch any young child and you’ll see them using hand gestures alongside learning to speak. We now have morning, afternoon and Saturday courses running at six locations throughout Medway and Maidstone.” New classes start soon at New Road School in Chatham and St James the Great Children’s Centre in East Malling.

Contact Lorraine on 01634 319705 or www.singandsign.com

Want to find out more about cloth nappies or even borrow some to try? Medway Cloth Nappy Network holds regular nappucinos and even has nappy library kits. Set up by washable nappy enthusiast Jenny Hicks, the group meets each month at the New Art Centre in Chatham (10.30am-12.00) and also at a Saturday drop-in, in conjunction with Medway NCT at the Moat House, Crow Lane in Rochester (2:30pm – 4pm). Meetings offer a chance to chat, over coffee, with like-minded parents and to find out more about real nappies.

Medway Cloth Nappy Network has put together several cloth nappy trial kits for parents to hire, which come with full backup support and instructions. With a potential saving of more than £500 compared with using disposables, they’re certainly an attractive financial option as well as better for the environment. Upcoming nappucinos are in Chatham on March 2 and April 6 and the Saturday drop-in meets on February 21 and March 21. To find out more, contact Jenny on 01634 687519 or visit www. medwayclothnappies.org.uk

geT groovy AT hempsTeAd Jo Jingles, the nationally acclaimed music and movement classes, have just added some new sessions to the Medway area. Seventeen classes run throughout the week, including new classes at Hempstead. So if you’re looking for an activity that’s fun and educational, visit www.jojingles.com/ maidstone or call Jo on 01634 310676 to find out about classes near you.

32

www.kentmama.co.uk

in School Primary rent and baby , y it n u Comm d a pa parents Fair view recently opene 2.45pm. For oles to p s d 5 a a .1 h T 1 Rainham hursdays from alking, Fair view ums and T w m n r o to e r n p th sessio and babies u me et o oking fo lace to o if you are lo or for a p g in carers x s up s, iends, s a rela provide welcomes gro et a group of fr p along. The o o e ls p m a n It e to . ils. th e s dad ly venu tnatal group, 38710 for deta d n e ri -f s 3 o p 4 r 3 u 6 a child 1 o y 0 me et y. Call place to 2.00 per famil £ is t s o c

TT ad/A6 blank port

10/18/06

4:06 PM

Page 1

The springboard to confidence for your child

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 appropriate to their age � A structured programme designed to build self confidence and develop essential listening and language skills � Supervised by trained staff in a fun and caring environment

Classes in Medway, Maidstone and throughout Kent.

01622 662 589

www.waterbabies.co.uk

good-quality new and used children’s toys, clothes, prams, pushchairs, cots and nursery equipment brought and sold. from prem baby to age 5

For your nearest Tumble Tots centre

call www.tumbletots.com

Y

What’s for dinner mum?

Make breastfeeding your baby a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

Baby Magic DVD, produced by midwife Sherma Garcia, gives you the information you need to breastfeed successfully.

Order your copy, priced £14.99 from www.baby-magic.com or call Sherma on 07828 721456

beautiful selection of m&s, next, gap and designer clothes.

new stock arriving weekly you can find us at: 126 high street, rochester. (opposite casino) for further details please call us on:

01634 819887

open mon – sat 10am til 5pm

The Ultimate Postnatal Fitness Class!

Tues & Thurs, 10-11am Riverside Country Park, Rainham

First Class Free

It’s not just a walk in the park!

For details contact Jenni on: 07976 970509 Email: jenni@fit-me.co.uk Web: www.fit-me.co.uk to advertise call 01634 814364

33

Quality Childcare at Leapfrog, Chatham Maritime

Part of the Busy Bees Group

We offer quality care, education and lots of fun for your little one in a safe, stimulating environment!

‘OUTSTANDING’ Ofsted Open 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday Open 8am - 6pm, Monday to Friday Large outdoor garden and play areas

Large outdoor garden and play areas Multi sensory room, library and quiet areas to help develop your child Multi sensory room, library and quiet areas to help develop your child Nutritious fresh meals prepared on site every day Movers and shakers activity class Movers and Shakers activity classes and French Lessons!

Nutritious meals every day

PLUS NEW FORnappies 2008 - FREE AND Inclusive andNAPPIES wipes for under 3 year olds WIPES FOR 0-12 MONTH OLD BABIES Come and see us at Leapfrog Day Nursery, Brunel, Chatham Maritime

55272 MM MAMA Ad 29/1/09 Call132x94mm:Layout Karen or Amanda on1 01634 890 25017:08

www.leapfrogdaynurseries.co.uk

soft styles in e d ionable ost fash fabrics mini mo e m e th dly n th With ild frien othes o cl ch , le b tle n ra ge ado e most make th t. e ren’s high stre of child s range orgeou g r ts u o o o e Se at B . in store hatham clothing gon Centre, C nta The Pe

Only at

www.minimode.co.uk

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www.kentmama.co.uk

Page 1

LIMITE D PLACE S AVAILA BLE!

The world’s first pre-school football programme.

 Baby Signing the FUN way!  Traditional & Original songs  Puppets & Props   Instruments From 6 months to 2 years +

 For information on classes in Medway & Maidstone contact Lorraine  Tel: 07954 439579 Email: lorrainemurray@singandsign.co.uk

SING ALONG WITH JO JINGLES! Fun Music, Singing & Movement Classes for children aged 6 months to 5 years l tiona Educa e Fun! iv t Crea

DEVELOP YOUR CHILD’S • Social Skills • Language • Confidence

• Listening Skills • Co-ordination • Imagination

Improve your child’s: ● Football skills ● Co-ordination ● Balance ● Social skills ● Self confidence

As well as being fantastic fun!

Classes in Medway, Maidstone and Sittingbourne. Walkers to age 5.

01795 471412 / 07950 736617

d.colley@socatots.com

www.socatots.com

Children’s Parties & Nursery Sessions also available!

Classes in LARKFIELD, BREDHURST, ST MARY’S ISLAND, STROOD, MAIDSTONE & KINGS HILL Call Jo on 01634 310676 www.jojingles.com/maidstone

Making Movement Matter!

2 to 4 year olds Creative Classes in: Physical St Mary’s Island, Fun Walderslade and StroodCertificates Call Lisa Jarrett on Parties Nursery 01634 682181 lisajarrett@dinkydancers.com Classes Free trial

l Enjoyable and educational parent

and child art classes

l Run by a qualified infant teacher l No mess in your own home l Classes in St. Mary’s Island

si

EE FR

es ts 1s

For more details ring Melissa on 01634 377575 , or visit www.splatterandsplodge.co.uk

on

l Easter craft special 7th April

to advertise call 01634 814364

35

neW BaBy

Look, no hands! sTreTchy WrAp, Woven WrAp, mei-TAi, ring sling, pouch sling… if These Words meAn AnyThing To you iT’s likely ThAT you Are one of The groWing number of pArenTs choosing To WeAr your bAby. In the past decade, baby slings have grown in popularity enormously in the UK. But with a vast choice and prices ranging from £20 to £70, how can you decide what to buy or whether carrying your baby is right for you? We spoke to Rebecca Rising who runs a sling-hire library for Medway NCT. Aside from the obvious benefit as a hands-free way to carry your baby, allowing you to get on with shopping, housework, or attending to a toddler, there are many reasons to opt for a sling.

For newborns, a sling mimics the snug security of the womb, and the motion of being carried can soothe a colicky baby to sleep. Being so close to a parent allows older babies to experience the world safely and

in a “quiet, alert state” which is perfect for learning. Research has shown that babies who are carried cry up to 43% less than those in pushchairs.

Some slings enable discreet breastfeeding on the go. And carrying your baby in a sling can even lessen the likelihood of your baby developing flat head syndrome. Perhaps the only disadvantage when you are out and about with your slung baby is that there is nowhere to put your shopping!

One of the most common reasons parents give for not using a sling is that they can seem really complicated. This may be true of some slings, but after the first few wears, the ‘wrapping’ does get easier. And many slings are as easy to put on as a rucksack.

WrApAround slings

These offer the most versatility and excellent weight distribution. Woven wraps, such as the Didymos or Storchenwiege, or stretchy wraps, such as Moby or Kari Me, are a continuous length of fabric which is wrapped around the body to carry the baby on the back, hip or front from birth. Stretchy wraps are particularly good for carrying younger babies. Woven wraps, with seemingly limitless wrapping options, can be worn well into the toddler years. The Close Baby Carrier offers the same advantages but requires no wrapping or tying.

36

www.kentmama.co.uk

pouch And ring slings

Probably the simplest is a pouch sling, such as those made

by Brightspark Slings or Hotslings, which consists of a loop of fabric worn over one shoulder. There are no complicated ties, wraps or buckles and the baby lies or sits in the cradle created by the pouch. A ring sling, also worn over one shoulder, offers a bit more versatility than a pouch in that the length of fabric is easily adjustable. A ring sling is also one of the easiest slings to breastfeed in but, due to slightly uneven weight distribution both pouch and ringslings are not advisable for wearers with back problems.

mei TAis

Based on traditional Chinese baby carriers, these consist of a square panel of fabric with a tie from each corner.

The baby sits in the panel on the wearer’s back or front and the ties wrap round the waist and shoulders. Great for older babies, they can also be used from birth.

Many mei-tais have padded shoulder straps and are often reversible with a bold print on one side and plain fabric on the other.

sofT-sTrucTured cArriers

Makes like Patapum, Beco and Baby Bjorn usually have a padded waistband which makes them extremely comfortable as the weight of the baby is spread across the wearer’s hips in addition to the back and shoulders.

They are ideal for older babies.

Parents and slings come in all shapes and sizes, so the best way to find a sling that suits is to try a few out. Some online businesses offer a hire service and locally, Medway NCT has recently set up a sling library, with slings at £10 for 2 weeks hire or £15 for a total of 3 slings. Further details can be found at www.nctmedway.org In addition, La Leche League Rochester has many knowledgeable sling-wearing mothers who are happy to exchange advice and tips.

For information on LLL breastfeeding support meetings contact lll. rochester.publicity@googlemail.com or call 01634 304203.

Photos courtesy of Sara and Sandra from www.sasaslings.co.uk.

With 8 children between them, they have tried and tested all the slings they sell and are passionate about helping parents make the right choice of sling. They offer advice by email, online sales and hire out slings for short-term use, such as holidays, or to try before you buy. For more information contact Sandra on 01702 477234. to advertise call 01634 814364

37

PaRty

Kids talk parties!

miA And elise, Aged 8 And 5, rochesTer Favourite party?

E: My friend had a really good party.

It was dark and there were lots of bubbles and music and everyone was dancing. You could choose how you wanted your face to be painted from a book.

M: Probably my own make-over party. I liked the make-up because I had never been to a party where we’d had lots of make-up and were allowed to do our own. And I liked everybody dancing at the end.

Dislikes?

M: None are bad really; it’s just that mine was my favourite.

E: I wouldn’t like a boys’ party like Power Rangers or Spiderman.

What have you liked about other parties you have been to?

M: I usually like the food. And I liked a make a bear party at someone’s home where we made our own bears and we could choose which bear we wanted to make.

Favourite party food?

M: Sausage rolls. And I love cake.

E: Cupcakes, chocolate fingers and ham sandwiches.

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in The pAsT When We’ve run pArTy ArTicles We’ve TAlked To The experTs – pArenTs And professionAl pArTy orgAnisers – AbouT Their Advice, Tips And dos And don’Ts on holding A successful celebrATion. This issue, We ThoughT We’d sound ouT The cusTomer, The end user, The punTer....

The kids Themselves! so We Asked locAl children: “WhAT mAkes A greAT birThdAy pArTy?” bArnAby, Age 4, medWAy Best party?

I like Kidzone parties because I can run around with people from my school and go on the red slide and the yellow slide and the green slide….

What makes a good party?

Presents [well, we did ask for an honest answer! – Ed] When it’s your birthday what do you enjoy?

I like eating birthday cake and playing games. I like the mummy game where you get to wrap up a grown-up in toilet paper and they pretend to be a scary mummy.

Conclusion: Pre-schoolers really don’t mind what they do. All parties are great.

secrets with no adults around to interfere. You can’t have more than five friends though as it gets too noisy.

What makes a good birthday party?

Having people you know well at the party. Plenty of time to chat with your friends. And having a variety of food, not just one type, in case you don’t like it.

lAurA, Aged 10, Tunbridge Wells Best parties?

Definitely sleepover parties.

Best of all worlds, you get to play with your friends, they stay for tea and then you go to bed, chat and share all your

mArTin And krisTiAn, Aged 7 And 9, heAdcorn What makes a great party?

K: I like all sorts of parties, but it is most fun when you are doing an activity or there is a competition of some sort.

My friend had a Laser party and that was fun. We were in different teams and competed against each other. I've also been to parties where we painted ceramics and built a teddy. I liked those parties because you had something to take home afterwards and remember the party by.

When it’s your own party, what makes it great?

K: When I think about what I like for my party I think about what my friends and I would like to do. It is important where it is and what time it is. Once my friend Joe and I went gokarting and that was fun, but I also like just going to play somewhere like Monkey Bizz or Wear’m’ Out. The party I have enjoyed the most was

and that was really awful.

Other parents interfering and checking what their child is doing or eating. And being told who I must invite to the party because my mum is friends with their mum.

Dislikes?

When the person doing the party, like the clown or the magician, makes too many rules like you can’t talk, you must sit down, you must sing.

When other children get too bossy and take over the party.

Too much healthy food - once there was fruit in my party bag

Bridget, mum, aged 41 Having listened to my children’s opinions I’ve realised that it was fine for me to make all the party decisions up to about the age of 6, but that from 7-11 I have to realise that it’s their party not mine and their views matter. Also that what they do is less important than who they do it with. As they get older, a few good friends are preferable to the whole class.

when we went to see Treasure Island at the Spotlites’ Theatre in Chatham.

It is one of my favourite stories and it was fun because we all watched the play together and joined in together.

M: I wanted to go to the Rare Breeds Centre for my birthday; I thought it would be good because they have piglets there. They are fun to watch and you can go in with some of them and they nibble your shoes. I think about stuff I like and I am interested in and then I think about lunch. I like to have nice food at my party. Fish and chips are my favourite party food and if you have that you know it’s going to be a really good party.

Party bags - any likes or dislikes?

K: There are lost of different types of party-bags and it is interesting to see what sort it is going to be. I like the party bags from smaller parties, they tend to have more in them!

M: I like party bags very much because they have sweets in and I like sweets. In my opinion, sweets are more important than a present because I like sweets very very much. to advertise call 01634 814364

39

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Party bag toys and bags, invitations, tablewear, shaped party food boxes and room decorations.

Themed decorations/scene setters including Mexican, Hollywood, fiesta, Halloween, tropical, Christmas, wild west, casino etc.

Fancy dress costumes for sale and hire in children’s and adult sizes. Face paints.

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l Van arrives playing happy birthday/ congratulations l Birthday child helps in serving friends l Happy birthday singing with chimes l Special card and voucher from us l Agree your budget in advance Fetes, events, shows and sporting events also catered for.

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Bored of the usual content of party bags and wedding favours etc? Struggling to find an alternative?

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are delightful confectionary sticks full of delicious sweets wrapped and supplied with a personalised thank you note.

Reasonably priced and loved by all.

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Contact Emma on 01634 842515 M - 07961 533732

Emma’s Glitter Girl Parties Variouspartythemesavailableto suitgirls,boysandmixedparties.

Age 3 plus, through to adult pamper parties.

Forfurtherdetailspleaseeithervisitmy website or call Emma Mackelden www.emmasglittergirlparties.co.uk

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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

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Children’s Dance Parties Movers and Groovers offer2Partypackages l Funky Feet Groovers (suitableage5–12years).

Hip,coolandhigh-energy parties tailored to your age group. Based on Disney, High School Musical, Hairspray and MTV pop videos. l Princess Ballerina Party (3 – 6 years) based on the magic of ballet.

Allpartiesincludedancingandlearningroutines, costumes, stories, competitions and prizes.

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41

HeaLtH “forTunATely The imAge of A school nurse As niTTy norA bug explorer seems To be finAlly dying ouT” sAys The leAd for The school nursing service AT medWAy nhs foundATion TrusT.

eAch yeAr, every child sTArTing school in medWAy Will receive An iniTiAl heAlTh AssessmenT. so We spoke To sue WhiTing AbouT her TeAm of school nurses And WhAT They do. if you don’T check for niTs WhAT do you do?

Nowadays our role is much more like that of a health visitor, but for children aged 4 to 16.

Some children will start school with specific health issues such as allergies or asthma or perhaps a learning disability such as autism. We can work with the school and the parents to make sure teachers, the child and the parents are confident the child’s needs are catered for at school. We also have a public health role to encourage children to think about their own health, such as diet and eating habits.

42

www.kentmama.co.uk

What is a . . . school nurse? does eAch school hAve A nurse?

Yes. In Medway each school nurse will usually cover about 15 schools. We have three centres in Chatham, Strood and Rainham where they are based together with support staff and staff nurse.

WhAT TrAining does A school nurse hAve?

We have exactly the same training as a health visitor, which is why our roles are so similar. Each school nurse has a nursing degree and has undergone a specialist element of training for school-aged children.

WhAT hAppens AT The recepTion yeAr heAlTh AssessmenT?

Children’s height, weight and hearing are tested and parents complete a general health questionnaire. We invite parents to come along for the assessment particularly if they have any specific problems they would like assistance with. But it’s not essential for the parent to be there. We give parents a copy of the findings and measurements, along with our contact number, and flag up any issues. It’s really a chance to check that the child is healthy and for teachers, parents or children to alert us to any areas where we could help. Sometimes we might see a parent who

is worried that their child is still wetting the bed, or a teacher might mention that a child is having trouble paying attention or hearing instructions. We can’t always correct problems ourselves, but we can direct parents to the right services within the NHS, such as the optician, to help them with any concerns and set up a timetable to monitor progress.

Tell us about the preventative side of your role

At the school’s request we can come in and talk to pupils on specific issues relating to health and development. We have lots of interactive session on subjects such as finding hidden sugars in food through to more sensitive topics, such as personal hygiene for year 6s approaching puberty. We also show children how to look after their teeth, with good brushing and visits to dentists.

What else do you do?

We are in a fortunate position to be able to cut across the areas of health, education and social care. So a big piece of our work is in child protection and making sure that children at risk of abuse or neglect are highlighted early on. We can work with teachers, our contacts within the health service and social workers to provide an overall picture of a situation and support the family and child.

What is the best part of your job?

Our role, and our philosophy, is to help all school-aged children to grow and develop into healthy adults of tomorrow, by making healthy lifestyle choices.

We hope that we play a part in this with the children and their families who live in Medway.

School nurses do make a difference!

School bugs… expl aine Starting school or nursery is a learning experience for parents, but not always in a good way! Each new term another bug does the rounds and, while most of them are fairly mild, it can be useful to know a bit about them in order to treat them quickly and prevent future infections.

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Slap cheek

Also known as ‘fifth disease’, this causes a child’s cheeks to look bright red as if they have been slapped. A red lacy-looking rash may also appear on the body and the child may feel achy or have flu-like symptoms. As a virus, the best way to treat it is rest, fluids and, if recommended by a doctor, paracetamol. Children are most contagious in the week before the symptoms show.

Hand, foot and mouth

This is another viral infection that mainly affects the under 10s.

Symptoms include sore throat, high temperature and feeling unwell, followed by small spots developing inside the mouth. Usually, small chickenpox-like spots appear on the hands and feet and sometimes on the buttocks and legs. The child may feel unwell for a few days but it may take longer for the mouth ulcers to heal.

Impetigo

This contagious bacterial skin infection usually produces blisters or sores on and around the mouth and nose, neck or hands.

Although it is unlikely to cause much discomfort, it is highly contagious, so keep your child off school and visit the doctor, who will usually prescribe antibiotics. A child may be more likely to develop impetigo if their skin has already been irritated by other skin problems such as eczema, insect bites or a sore runny nose.

Threadworms

Very high on the gross factor, but rarely discussed, it is estimated that as many as 40% of children under the age of 10 are infected with these small white worms at any one time. The child may complain of an itchy bottom or have disturbed sleep. Many chemists sell threadworm tablets. They need to be taken by all members of the family and the dose repeated one week later to prevent reinfection. Hand washing, keeping fingernails short and discouraging finger sucking can help prevent future infections.

Nits

Head lice are not fussy about whose hair they target so there’s no stigma attached to your child getting them. The first sign is usually itchiness behind the ears or at the base of the scalp.

The lice lay tiny light-brown eggs on the shaft of the hair which cannot be washed out with shampoo alone. The lifecycle of the eggs is seven days, so it’s important to comb every few days if your child has them. Playground wisdom is that coating wet hair in conditioner and then combing with a nit comb is an excellent way to tackle the problem without using harsh chemicals.

As with all medical issues, it is important to seek advice from a doctor or health visitor if you are concerned. NHS Direct can be reached 24 hours a day on 0845 4647 or contact your local GP. to advertise call 01634 814364

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education

From CBeebies to Cyberbullies How to keep your child safe online To most children, a world without the internet seems like ancient history. We adults, however, can struggle to keep up with the new technology. Besides making us feel ancient, this can give us a sense of powerlessness when trying to understand just what our children get up to online.

By Zoe Barkham Public Health Manager, Medway Council 44

www.kentmama.co.uk

The first message for parents and carers is that the internet is wonderful and we would never advise getting rid of the family computer. But there are things we can do to ensure children get fun and information from the web without putting themselves at risk.

General rules

Pre-schoolers

q Make sure your child uses the internet only when other family members are about. q Don’t let children use the net in their bedrooms – it’s too easy for them to hide things. q Install filters to block harmful sites, but remember that games consoles and mobile phones also give access to the web. q Use adverts about identify theft as a good way to raise the subject of internet safety. q Make sure you and your children know how to report a problem.

Help them to recognise things they shouldn’t open.

Create a “favourites” list of safe sites. Set up your internet so that pop-ups (those annoying little boxes that appear) are turned off; some lead to illegal sites.

Remember - younger users sometimes click randomly

so can stumble on inappropriate sites by accident. www. thinkyouknow.co.uk has a page for very young children where you can download Hector Protector – a friendly dolphin who swims in the corner of the screen. A child who is alarmed by something they’ve seen can click on Hector, who brings up a picture to cover the screen while the child goes for help.

9-Teen 5-8

Parents and carers can help prevent problems by understanding what their children are doing. Try saying something like “That looks like fun, how does it work?” to get your child to show you their favourite sites. They will want to keep some things private, but by showing your interest you’ve made the subject easy to return to.

Remember - that mobile phones give

web access too. Teach your child that they must get permission before sharing photos. Spam text messages can link to illegal or adult websites, so make sure they know to open only messages from people they know.

www.thinkyouknow.co.uk

This is an excellent website for children, parents and teachers. The children’s sections are split into age groups and give advice on the applications they are most likely to use at that age.

Interactive games and cartoon videos gently introduce online safety.

Although they seem street-wise, many children don’t realise they can be vulnerable online. They assume that everyone they meet will tell them the truth.

Dangerous people may use personal information a child innocently gives out to form a bond with the child by faking shared interests.

For example, imagine that a child posts a photo of himself in school uniform and another of himself at his tenth birthday party, at a local bowling alley.

Anyone seeing that can work out roughly where the child lives, what year group he is in and at which school. From there it’s easy to strike up a fake friendship – “You go to that school with the big trees in the playground! My sister goes there too. She thinks your teacher Mr Smith is really cool. I’m in year six too but my school is in Rainham. Do you like bowling? Maybe we could go together some time?”

The child will have no way of knowing this message isn’t from another 10 year old. The adult can then begin to build a relationship which puts the child at risk.

Remember - adults contacting children is not the only on-

line danger. There is a The internet very real problem with is a great place for Cyberbullying, when children and families, texts and websites are used to hurt and and it’s easy to protect intimidate victims. yourselves from the risks.

Bullies may use camera phones Encourage your children to or messaging share the Think You Know systems to spread link with their friends and spiteful images or gossip. Make sure in the meantime enjoy your school's antiyour surfing! bullying policy covers

For parents, the site explains terminology such as chat rooms, instant messaging and social networking and looks at the dangers of each. You can download leaflets and sign up for email updates on new technologies. By understanding online activities, you can advise your children how to block messages, report abuse, restrict access to people other than known friends and avoid unwanted situations.

Cyberbullying, and if not write to the Governors asking that the policy is urgently reviewed.

to advertise call 01634 814364

45

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Next issue out June 1st l What’s on this summer l Eating out with kids l Best Kent beaches l Preparing for big school l Local news, maternity, toddler talk and more…

Published three times a year our Medway and Maidstone editions have a combined print run of 32,000 copies. If you would like to reach parents-to-be and families within easy access of your business contact us on 01634 814364 or email info@kentmama.co.uk for more information.

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47

Kidding Around!

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