Kidscene Childcare Party Ideas
Local Clubs & Classes
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Issue 2
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A Half Term Family Ticket to Manor House Wildlife Park ! Where to go & What to do over Half Term in Swansea
Well …..Summer is now a distant memory and Autumn has finally arrived! With Half term just around the corner, along with Halloween and Bonfire night there’s still plenty to look forward to! The evenings may be getting darker and the weather colder but there’s still plenty to do- whether that’s indoors or out. Kidscene has plenty of ideas to keep you busy on the weekends and after school! Kidscene Office : 3a Killan Road, Dunvant, Swansea, SA2 7TD Email: sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk Tel: 07979 283096/07795 172168 Distribution: 10,000 copies through Primary schools,Day Nurseries & various locations in & around the Swansea area. All text & images used in this magazine are subject to copyright.
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Local News Education & Childcare: Homework Hell! Feature School….Ysgol Craigfelen in Clydach. Local Clubs & Classes Special Needs Clubs Win a Half Term Family Ticket to Manor House Wildlife Park! Parties & Entertainment Out & About in Swansea Improve your organisational skills! Kidscene Directory
Kidscene is an independent, privately owned publication. We try to ensure that all information is accurate. However, we do not accept liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause.
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NEARLY NEW SALES
LOCAL NEWS Fancy a welly walk or prefer a welshcake? Bobath Children's Therapy Bake for Bobath is Wales’ Centre Wales is a registered biggest Welsh cake bake for charity that provides specialist charity and sees individuals, therapy to children throughout groups, work places and Wales who have cerebral palsy. schools all over Wales sell Join Bobath as they make a Welshcakes, hold coffee splash in Swansea for their mornings and afternoon teas sponsored Welly Walk during the week of St David’s beginning at the Junction Café, Day to ‘raise some dough’ for Mumbles Road on Sunday 21st Bobath. Bobath are very happy to be supported again this year October. The 2 mile walk will by two home grown Welsh help raise much needed funds companies, Tan y Castell to run the centre, the walk will Welshcakes and Welsh Brew officially start at 11am after a Tea. ‘Welly Warm up”.
13th Oct 2012: Dunvant Social Centre 10am-1pm Call Kay 07843 620982 21st October 2012: Stuff4Kids LC2 Swansea 10.30-1pm. 99p entry, refreshments,cake stall & raffle. For more info. www.stuff4kids.co.uk
11th November 2012: The Wave; Swansea Marriott Hotel 11-4pm .Mums to be,cakes to christenings, babies to toddlers.Beautiful baby comp. Can enter on If you would like a free fundraising pack for day!
either of these events including event details, stickers and balloons or if your school would like a free schools pack or arrange for a Bobath representative to come to your school to give a talk please contact the fundraising team on 02920 522600 or fundraising@bobathwales.org
18th November 2012: NCT Bishop Gore School, Sketty 10.30-1pm adults £1 children free SwanseadistrictNCT@gmail. com 0844 243 6270 Baby & children's clothing, toys, games, equipment & prams.
STINGRAYS MEET PARALYMPIANS On 20th August Swansea Stingrays were invited to spend some time with the New Zealand and Mexican Paralympic teams that were training in Swansea prior to the Games at London. The morning began with a session at the pool where they watched the Paralympians train, followed by the Stingray swimmers having an opportunity of a training session being coached by the New Zealand coach, Gary Francis. Swimmers then had some fun trying out some paralympic athletic activities training alongside the visiting Paralympians. The session ended with a question and answer session. It was a very memorable morning - thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended!
BEST PRE-SCHOOL CLASS IN SW WALES 2012 Now in our 7th year, we have just been voted 'Best preschool class' in South West Wales 2012 by Netmums. We offer sensory, physical, creative, fun sessions for babies, tots and pre-schoolers. Babybods - Wed at 9.45 & Thurs at 12.00 ; Wobblibods Wed at 10.45 & Thurs at 10.45 ; Busibods - Wed at 10.45 & Thurs at 9.45 (At Sketty Bethel Chapel, Sketty) Artibods for little hands - Mon 10-11 in All Saints Church Hall, Mumbles. Artibods Family Art Sessions - 1st weekend of the month Sessions at 10.30 and 1.30 at Sketty Bethel Chapel. Artibods after school- Thurs 45pm at Sketty Bethel Chapel. Cookibods - Cookery sessions for children aged 3 to teens. Usually the 3rd weekend of the month. Sessions at 10.30 & 1.30 at Swansea Vale Resource Centre. 07760884449 Waterfront Nippers - On the last Friday of every month, we provide free arts, crafts and play relating to a theme that the Waterfront Museum give us. Sessions run at 10.30 and 1.30 Find us on Facebook and on our Websites: www.holibods.co.uk, www.artibods.co.uk www.cookibods.co.uk sian@holibods.co.uk 01792 813052 / 07507666073
Homework Hell! Today,with most of us parents working long and often increasing hours, the last thing you want to do when you get home is sit around the table supervising homework, especially when you are tired and stressed! But, did you know that research has shown that when parents become involved in their children’s homework,the children do better in school! It benefits both your child’s school work and self-esteem and
shows your children that what they do is important! Helping with homework shouldn’t mean you all spending hours hunched over the dining table. Parents can be supportive in other ways, by demonstrating study and organizational skills, explaining a tricky problem or even just encouraging them to take a well earned break! Who knows….maybe you will learn something new as well?
1) Set up a homework-friendly area. 2) Schedule regular study times. 3) Don't leave it until the last minute! 4) Take frequent breaks and refreshments. 5) No distractions! TV, Facebook and mobile phones! 6) Break the work up into manageable chunks. 7) Encourage independent thought and work. 8) Give lots of encouragement and praise. 9) Reward efforts and results. 10) Is the homework too hard? Discuss your concerns with teachers.
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A brand new Kip McGrath Education Centre has opened its doors in Tycoch Square, Sketty, Swansea. Kip McGrath provides professional tuition in maths and English for children aged between 5 and 18. Parents feel confident that their child is receiving the very best tuition from qualified teachers in a bright, motivating and most of all, safe environment. Claire has been successfully running the Gorseinon centre since 2005 and has now proudly opened another centre in Tycoch. “Kip McGrath is a very rewarding place to work. Children receive programmes of work tailored to suit their individual needs. Whether tackling areas of weakness or extending them further onto more challenging tasks." “We're thrilled by their great improvements in abilities, motivation and confidence." Please contact Claire if you would like to book a free assessment in Maths and/or English - Sketty 299996 or Gorseinon 891144.
Two Tuition Centres in Swansea have become members of a national network of tuition centres that provides parents with reassurance when hiring a private tutor. Swansea Tuition centre, based in Morriston and The Learning Curve in Mumbles have become members of the Association of Professional Tuition Centres.
educational software house, which has provided state of the art computer programs in both Maths and English. “Our resources are designed to make learning fun,” said Steve Evans of The Learning Curve. As well as the computer programs,APTC teachers employ a range of materials including books, worksheets and audiovisual technology. All the materials they use are relevant to the National Curriculum in the UK.
Tuition is currently unregulated in the UK, but all APTC registered teachers must be fully qualified and experienced teachers and successfully passed a CRB enhanced check. A free initial assessment is is offered, the results of which are fed back to parents. Swansea Tuition Centre’s Sue Arnold APTC teachers recognise that no two children said,”While there are lots of good tutors around, tuition is unregulated, and we want are the same and accordingly, each child to give parents an assurance of quality they has their own individually planned programme of work. Children work in a can trust.” stimulating and friendly environment where importance is placed on building confidence APTC have developed a bespoke learning and developing a love of learning. programme in partnership with an 13
Music Really Matters!! All young children enjoy music; From a very early age they love music, dancing and singing, and introducing music to your little one is such an important thing to do for them. The benefits of music to babies and toddlers has been long written about, and not only is it an enjoyable experience for both of you – singing at home is completely free!! We all have a voice and believe me – your little one really likes to hear yours! To them it's soothing,comforting and makes them feel secure. So what are you waiting for!? Sing songs at bathtime;”This is the way we wash our toes, face etc when Sophie's (your child's name) is in the bath.” Or “If your happy and you know it wash your hair etc.”
Education & Childcare It's also a great way to increase your social network too. Whether you go to a class or just have fun with music at home, I promise you will have an enjoyable time together, but also opening the door to the wonderful world of music is a fabulous gift to share with your little one. Happy music making !
Tracey Tracey Giddings is a mum of two and a professionally trained singer, who founded and runs Melody Minis Baby and Toddler music groups. She also runs music sessions in schools and private nurseries as well as delivering training to staff and support workers who work with young children. For more information contact 07969 952188.
Using music, rhyme and song can be a useful way to detract from what may be a stressful time at home. ie Getting Dressed : “This is the way we put our coat on etc on a cold and frosty morning.” Dinner times:” I love Dinner, I love Dinner, you do too, you do too”. (to the music of Frere Jacques) Make the words up, make the music up, it really doesn’t matter, your child won't care! Lullabies are also a great way to calm your baby down or help settle them at bedtime. Twinkle Twinkle little star, I see the moon and the moon sees me, You are my Sunshine -are just a couple of suggestions, but again you could make your own up, no one else will hear it! Lullabies and simple nursery rhymes offer lots of fun for both of you, and the educational benefits of singing and enjoying music with your little one are huge. Professor Philip Sheppard (Lecturer at Royal College of Music) says “I am confident of three things: 1. Music can have a profound, positive effect on your child’s mental and Physical development. 2. Every child is musical. 3. Listening to music is beneficial, but making music is better still. Baby and toddler music groups are also a great way for you to gain confidence: if singing scares you a bit, or you question your own musical ability, or just for you to build a repertoire of new songs and rhymes.
To book a place or to find out more contact Tracey on 07969 952188/01792 424095 or email : tracey@melodyminis.co.uk
The children from Ysgol Craigfelen have been very kind in sharing with us their poems about the sea. What lovely work,We really enjoyed reading these!
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Swing along with Monkey Music! Monkey Music introduces music to very young children in a way they can easily understand, using lots of catchy songs and action rhymes, percussion instruments and colourful props. The children are grouped in classes according to their age and progress through the four separate stages of our award winning curriculum. During Rock ‘n’ Roll, babies from three months old are captivated and entertained with gentle and absorbing musical sights and sounds. Each
class is a special time in the week for parents and carers to simply stop and enjoy the sensory experience of sound together. Our upbeat Heigh Ho classes for busy toddlers from 12 months old encourage early language development and reinforce the feel of a ‘steady beat’. The children play assorted instruments while their teacher acts as a conductor who they learn to watch and copy. In Jiggety Jig, pre-school children from 2 years develop a strong sense of rhythm through singing, movement and musical games, and playing percussion. Children learn to accompany a song whilst playing a short rhythm and singing at the same time. During our Ding Dong classes for children from 3 years, they learn to read music. Until this stage, Monkey Music has focused on training children’s ears to listen to music, but now they will use their eyes to recognise music which is written down. If you would like to bring your little one for a complimentary class at our venues in Swansea city centre, Mumbles or Gower, telephone 01792 260026, email: swansea@monkeymusic.co.uk or visit www.monkeymusic.co.uk/area/ swansea.
City of Swansea Gymnastics Centre After a spectacular summer with the London 2012 Olympics, the exciting sport of gymnastics was watched by millions across the UK. It had kids jumping on the sofas, stretching their splits and doing cartwheels in their gardens, thinking that one day that could be me! Gymnastics is a safe, fun and challenging sport that offers movement opportunities for all people of all ages and abilities. At the City and County of Swansea Gymnastics Centre in Fforestfach we have one of Wales’ premiere gymnastics facilities teamed with top coaches which have coached gymnastics to regional, national and international level. We have a dedicated cafe area with a viewing gallery for end of term performances and competitions, and Quatro gymnastics leotard shop all on site. Here are our top reasons why you couldn’t find a better sport for your child:1. Fun - turning upside down and learning new skills and tricks is part of a child’s nature. 2. Fitness - getting your child up and active is not only good for them it also encourages a healthy and active lifestyle. 3. Friendship - children love to play with their friends and make new ones in safe and challenging environments. 4. Fundamentals - participation in gymnastics teaches and enhances fundamental movement patterns learned in early life and is essential for continued growth and development. The City of Swansea Gymnastics centre offers a wide range of classes including Bumblebabies,Tumblies, Recreational, Men’s and Women’s Artistic gymnastics, Special Needs and Adult Classes. For further information please contact: Swansea Gymnastics Club, Abergelli Road, Swansea, SA5 4DY 01792 578774 contact@swanseagymnastics.org.uk www.swanseagymnastics.org.uk MON
11-11.45 BUMBLEBABIES- 8WKS TO THU 16.30-17.20 Ages 4-5YRS WALKING 17.30-18.20 Ages 6-8YRS 13.30-14.15 PARENT TODDLER 118.30-19.20 Ages 9-12YRS 4YRS 19.45-21.45 ADULT CLASSES 18+ (£5 16.30-17.20 Ages 4-5YRS PAYGO) 17.30-18.20 Ages 6-8YRS 18.30-19.20 Ages 9-12YRS 20.00-21.00 Ages 12+YRS (£4 PAYGO) 10.00-10.45-PARENT TODDLER 1FRI 13.30-14.15 PARENT TODDLER 1TUE 4YRS 4YRS 11.00-11.45-PARENT TODDLER 116.30-17.20 Ages 4-5YRS 4YRS WED 13.30-14.15-PARENT TODDLER 1SAT 09.30-10.30 Ages 4-5YRS 4YRS £4 10.45-11.45 Ages 6-12YRS 16.30-17.20 Ages 4-5YRS PAYGO 12.00-13.00 PARENT TODDLER 117.30-18.20 Ages 6-8YRS 4YRS 18.30-19.20 Ages 9-12YRS ALL CLASSES ARE PRICED AT £50 PER TERM UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE DURING SCHOOL HOLIDAYS WE DO A VARIETY OF DROP IN SESSIONS-CHECK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE:www.facebook.com/CityOfSwanseaGymnasticsCentre
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QUATRO GYMNASTICS LEOTARDS AND CLOTHING
Come and visit our dedicated Quatro leotard shop in Swansea Gymnastics centre Quatro Gymnastics was launched in 2011 by former International Swansea Gymnast Joanna Vazquez who recognised an opportunity for a new, exciting and innovative company to enter into the world of competitive and gymnastics apparel.
In gymnastics, it takes commitment, dedication, and focus, to be the best, which is why Quatro has spent a lot of time sourcing cutting edge fabrics, working on innovative designs and finetuning the perfect fit. So all you need to worry about is enjoying your training and competitions knowing you look the best and stand out from the crowd. Quatro Gymnastics Leotards Swansea Gymnastics Centre Abergelli Road, Swansea SA5 4DY 01792 587796
FREE GYMNASTICS HAIR SCRUNCHIE
With every full price gymnastics leotard purchased when you present this voucher in store.
Info@quatrogymnastics.com www.quatrogymnastics.com
* only one voucher per person
Disability Clubs & Classes Swansea City Bravehearts is a special needs football club for boys and girls with ages ranging mainly from 8 to 27 years. All of our players either have a physical or learning disability. We provide a safe environment where children can mix with their peers, play football and be part of a team, which strives to develop their confidence and build self -esteem. As well as our weekly training sessions we also travel away to play matches and tournaments against other special needs teams. Our aim is to give all youngsters in the club the opportunity to play football whatever their abilities. We have also been pro active in finding opportunities for some of our players to compete at a higher level. Six of our players have played for South Wales, one of which went on to play for the Wales Disability Team against England and Norway. For several years the club has had players selected to play for the British Mencap Team in a 17 country tournament held in Switzerland. The club is not only about football, we support our families and the weekly training sessions also act as a self help group for the parents and carers where they can swop information and provide support for each other. We hold an awards evening in the summer, along with a football festival where disability teams come from all over Wales to play football and have a good time. We also have a Christmas party and organise other social events throughout the year.
If you are interested in joining the club, please contact (01792) 403585 or email: info@braveheartsfootball.co.uk We meet on Tuesday nights at: Pitchside Indoor Football Arena, Cwmdu Industrial Estate, Camarthen rd, Swansea, SA5 8JF Juniors train from 5-6pm.
The Gladiators XV is an integrated rugby team of people with disabilities and their friends. From the beginning our motto has been “Friendship through Sport� and we have built our success on developing ability where only disability was noted before. Hard work has brought us well earned rewards. Members of the team come from a variety of backgrounds and have a wide range of pan disabilities e.g. downs syndrome and cerebral palsy. In 2006 the Gladiators went to develop a now fully fledged Junior Section. The juniors consist of individuals aged 6 up to adults, with various disabilities including wheelchair users. Unlike senior rugby the juniors play a variation of rugby known as Tag rugby whereby rather than physically tackling opponents a velcro flag must be pulled from the opposing players jersey. The Swansea Gladiators play Tag rugby under the rules and guidelines as defined by Dragon Sports. The Junior Gladiators train every Monday (apart from B/H and school holidays) indoors at Pitchside, (the old leisure leagues) in Cwmdu Industrial Estate. Training starts at 5.00pm. For further information contact Kelly@SwanseaGladiators.co.uk or call (01792) 421426 / 07827925477 We welcome everybody with a willingness to play irrespective of any ability they may or may not have.
Swansea Stingrays is a pan disabilityswimming club who train at the Welsh National Pool, Sketty Lane, Swansea on Sundays between 9.30am and 10.30am. We welcome disabled swimmers of any age and any ability. We have a website where you can meet our staff, swimmers and committee and find out more about what we do www.swanseastingrays.co.uk You can contact Wendy Thomas on 01792 613313 or email swanseastingrays@gmail.com if you need to know more.
their age, size or level of ability, and we usually manage to find a suitable cycle. We have a number of pleasant volunteers trained to help with this, to fit helmets and to adapt cycles to clients’ requirements as appropriate. We also have a workshop where volunteers learn cycle maintenance and carry out repairs, and a small canteen where users and volunteers can get snacks and hot drinks and a chat.
In 2004 a young woman working for Sustrans, realised that there was no cycling provision for people with disabilities in South West Wales. She decided to do something about it and, with On Saturday mornings we charm, determination and resourcefulness run sessions which are more family oriented. Children , succeeded in starting a small charity who have visited BikeAbility called BikeAbility, which took a few with their schools come with specially designed cycles round schools and residential centres. Three years ago, their parents and often with their siblings too, since there while the project was still run almost entirely by Laura, she fell into a coma and are enough different cycles here to keep them all entertained. We often get never recovered consciousness. The project would have closed then but for the children who have trouble with balance or dedication of Laura’s husband, who took a coordination, or who are anxious for whatever reason, and get them riding break from his job to keep the project two-wheelers.They come and play on the running, Laura’s mother, who provided other cycles, there is no pressure on them essential funds, and Laura’s sister who undertook a sponsored cycle ride through and once they relax they often learn to ride in a very short time. Sharing the the Himalayas for BikeAbility. child’s excitement and sense of achievement when they first learn to ride Now the project has two dedicated cycle give us some of our most rewarding tracks in a peaceful spot behind Dunvant moments. We also run National Standards Rugby Club. There is plenty of traffic-free cycle training classes for kids of all space for clients to develop their confidence and improve their cycling skills abilities, during the holidays and after school in term-time. We teach them both and direct access to the Clyne Valley at our track and on quiet roads nearby so Cycle Track and the possibility of a ride that they can learn to cycle safely in through the woods to the Swansea moderate traffic. seafront. To find out more about BikeAbility Wales or to book cycle training classes, Our cycle collection keeps growing. We go to www.bikeabilitywales.org.uk have two-wheelers in all sizes as we deliver cycle training to people of all ages, e-mail: bikeabilitywales@ymail.com or from various communities. We have hand- phone Mike Cherry on 07968 109145 or cycles, fixed and free wheeled tricycles, Livvy Collin on 07584 044284 four-wheeled go-karts, recumbent trikes , kick-bikes, wheelchair cycles and transporters and a number of tandems, both inline and side-by-side. We aim to access cycling to everybody, whatever
Parties & Entertainment
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Killay Community First Responders We are a group of volunteers who give up 6-8 hours a week and operate an on-call system on behalf of the Welsh Ambulance Service NHS Trusts to provide the members of our local communities with assistance if a member of the public rang 999 and requested an Ambulance. Once this call has been taken by the Ambulance Service,then the on-call Community First Responders (CFR’s) will be dispatched to that call to provide medical cover until the ambulance arrives. The geographical area we cover is - Killay,Dunvant, Three Crosses, Gowerton, Upper Killay and Sketty. Most of these areas are very well populated, so we can end up being very busy! All members have been trained by the Ambulance Service and these members are trained in incidents ranging from cardiac/respiratory arrest to lacerations. Co-ordinator/Chair Person: Christian Fox Treasurer: Rhian Bellamy
This witch puppet is fun to make and fun to play with, too! You will need: A wooden spoon Green paint Black wool Black craft foam Green craft foam Scrap of red craft foam Black felt Glue A pair of wiggle eyes Instructions: Paint the spoon green and leave to dry.
Cut a quarter circle of black felt. Trim off the corner. Paint glue around the base of the spoon handle and then stick on the felt, rolling it into a cone with the point at the bowl of the spoon. Glue the seams of the cone together. This is your witch’s dress. To make the arms, cut a narrow rectangle of black felt (see photo for size guide). Glue this to the back of the dress so the two ends stick out either side. Cut two ‘hands’ from green foam and glue them to the ends of arms. For the witch's hair, cut about 8 lengths of black wool and stick them to the top of the spoon bowl. Cut a triangular shape for the witch’s hat from black foam and glue this to the top of the spoon bowl over the wool. To finish off, stick two wiggle eyes, a crooked
www.theclotheslineie.wordpress.com A couple of points that might make life easier for us all: Someday’s I don’t like to eat much. No need to freak out about it. Oh and when I do like something like carrots, is there any need to give them to me constantly. It makes me not like them anymore.
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· Sometimes things just really annoy me. The rage just takes over, this usually results in me lying down on the ground, banging my hands and feet and screaming as loud I can. Sometimes it happens at home, sometimes at shopping centres. I don’t decide when the rage comes. It’s not my fault when it happens in public. Maybe if you bought the sweets, Peppa pig book, umbrella, mop, I wanted it wouldn’t happen,then you wouldn’t be so embarrassed and I be so heartbroken? ·
I like milk. Sometimes I am particularly partial to it at 4am, what’s the problem? I’m not looking for fizzy drinks, its milk.
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I know you hide chocolate and eat it when you think I am not looking. I am two not stupid.
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I like to take naps at different times. Some days are busier for me than others. Sometimes I can’t keep my eyes open at 5pm but I do find a late nap refreshes me greatly and I’m able to stay up a lot later then in the evenings.
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Sometimes strangers freak me out to the point of hysterical tears. Sometimes they intrigue me so much I need to point and stare. What’s that about??
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I know if you change clothes, use the noisy hair thing and put makeup on in the evening time that you are planning on leaving the house after I have fallen asleep. This makes me anxious and delays me from falling asleep. · Sometimes I just cry. There is no point asking me what’s wrong. Half the time I haven’t a notion myself. The other half of the time, there is actually nothing wrong, I just fancy a cry and some screaming. ·
I am really pleased that I have managed to conquer calling your name in all its varieties. Its my favourite thing to say……”Mama, mama mammmmmmmmaaaaaaa, Ma, ma, ma, ma, mammmyyeeeeeee…….MAMMYEEEEEEEEEEEEEE, MAMMY.” Love it.!
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Someday’s I need to be by your side constantly. I don’t enjoy when you leave the room without me. Don’t do it again. Ok?
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Finally, you are my favourite person in the world. I know I am yours too. I also know saying “I Lub You” is pretty much a get out of jail free card. I worked that out all by myself and its proving very , very useful. I am looking forward to being three, are you looking forward to my birthday too? 34
Out & About in Swansea Oystermouth Castle Mumbles. 01792 468321
October 6-7
All Day Family Fun WWT Wetland Centre, Llanelli - 11am www.wwt.org.uk/llanell/ 6 Autumn Feast St Fagans National History Museum - 11-1pm, 2-4pm 14 All Day Family Fun WWT Wetland Centre, Llanelli - 11am www.wwt.org.uk/llanelli/ 13-14 Celtic Metalwork St Fagans National History Museum- 11-1pm, 2-4pm 13 Farm Club Swansea Community Farm Fforestfach - 10-12.30pm 13 Nearly New Sale -Dunvant Social Centre 10-1pm 14 The Joshua Foundation Children’s Run 19-20 Celebrate National Apple Day -Swansea Community Farm, Fforestfach - 103.30pm 19-20 Family Workday-Swansea Community Farm- 103.30pm 20-21 All Day Family Fun WWT Wetland Centre, Llanelli - 11am www.wwt.org.uk/llanelli/ 21 Welly Walk-Mumbles Rd Bobath Childrens Therapy Centre Wales - 11am 21 Nearly New Sale Stuff4Kids- LC2 10.301pm 99p entry 27 Conservation Day Swansea Community Farm10-3.30pm 27-31st Halloween Art Cart St Fagans National History Museum- 11-1pm, 2-4pm 27 Bat Box Making Workshop WWT Wetland Centre Llanelli www.wwt.org.uk/llanelli/ 27- 31 Half Term Family Fun WWT Wetland Centre Llanelli - 11-5pm www.wwt.org.uk/llanelli/ 27-31 Spooky ghostly Activities
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Spooky Nature Night 5pm £8 National WWT Wetland Centre Llanelli www.wwt.org.uk/llanelli/ 29-31 Halloween Party Night Gower Heritage Centre, Parkmill, 6-9pm 30-31 Halloween Spook Night Plantasia 01792 474555 www.plantasia.org 30 Tree Discovery - Jr Park Rangers Clyne Gardens 10.30-11.30am Book in advance £1 01792 635485 30-31 Halloween Ghost Train on Swansea Prom -01792 635411 www.swansea.gov.uk/ holidayactivities
1-3 Animal Antics Bush Tucker Trials , Plantasia 01792 474555 1 Football Skills- Jr Park Rangers, Brynmill Park 10.30-11.30 £1 Book in advance 01792 635485 2-3 Autumn Feast St Fagans National History Museum - 11-1pm, 2-4pm 4 Half Term Family Fun 11am WWT Wetland Centre Llanelli www.wwt.org.uk/llanelli/ 5 Swansea Fireworks Display,St Helens. 01792 468321 10-11 Viking Weekend - Gower Heritage Centre,Parkmill. 10- 11 All Day Family Fun, 11am WWT Wetland Centre Llanelli 10 Farm Club-Swansea Community Farm, Fforestfach. 10-12.30pm 11 The Wave Baby & Toddler Show - Swansea Marriott 11-4pm 16 Waterfront Winterland opens. Museum Park.01792 468321
17-18 All Day Family Fun, 11am WWT Wetlands Centre Llanelli 17 Family Workday Swansea Community Farm,Fforestfach. 10-.30pm 18 Swansea Christmas Parade & Lights Switch on. 01792 468321 18 NCT Nearly New SaleBishop Gore School, Sketty - 10.30-1pm Adults £1 24 All Day Family Fun WWT Wetlands Centre Llanell. 11am 24 Conservation Day Swansea Community Farm,Fforestfach. 25 Father Christmas Arrives at the Mill- Gower Heritage Centre,Parkmill, 12-4.30pm
Brynhyfred Rhyme Time - 2,9,16,23 & 30th Oct 10am-10.30am. Halloween Fun- 31st Oct 2.30pm3.30pm.
Clydach Rhyme Time - 3,10,17 & 24th Oct 2.15pm-2.45pm Homework Club- 3,10,17,24th Oct 3.30pm- 5pm Halloween Mask Making- 31st Oct 2.30pm-3.30pm
Fforestfach Homework Club- 3,10,17,24 & 31st Oct 3.30pm-5pm “Bounce & Jiggle” Rhyme Time 5,12,19 & 26th Oct 2.15pm2.45pm Children’s Halloween Party- 28th Oct 2.30pm-3.30pm
Gorseinon Rhyme Time - 2,9,16,23 & 30th Oct 2.15pm- 2.45pm Baby Bounce 4,11,18 & 25th Oct 10am-10.30am (For children up to
Out & About in Swansea Llansamlet Homework Club - 5,12,19 & 26th Oct 3.30pm-6pm Halloween Crafts - 30th Oct 2.30pm-3.30pm
Morriston Homework Club - 1,8,15,22 & 29th Oct 3.30pm6pm 5,12,19 & 26th Oct 3.30pm-7pm (Free printing & photocopying) Rhyme Time - 3,10,17,24 & 31st Oct 10.30am
Pennard Rhyme Time - 5,12,17 & 24th Oct 9.15am- 9.45am Story Time - 1,8,15 & 22nd Oct 11.20am- 11.45am Tea Time Club - 3,10,17 & 24th Oct 2.15pm- 4pm Winnie the Witch Halloween Party - 26th Oct 4pm5pm Stories,crafts and fancy dress! Pontarddulais Wiggle & Jiggle - 1,8,15,22 & 29th Oct & 5,12,26 Nov 2pm-2.30pm Rhymes for the 0-5s Winnie the Witch Party- 31st Oct, 3pm- 4pm Halloween Party Fun,booking essential! Children in Need Teddy Bears Picnic for 0-5’s 19 Nov 2-2.30pm Santa’s Post Box- open 26th Nov - 8 Dec.
Halloween Fun - 30 Oct. 2.30pm-3.30pm Children in Need Badge sale- All Day 16 Nov Road Safety Week 19-25th Nov 2-2.30pm Stories with the road safety team.
Central Saturday Stories & stuff (Ages 5-8) Saturdays weekly. Story at 1pm. Activity follows. Nintendo Wii (Ages 8-16) Sat & Sun weekly 2.30pm3.30pm Baby Rhyme Time (Under 5’s) - Sundays 7,14,21 & 28 Oct 4,11,18,25 Nov 10.30am-11am.Tuesdays 2,9,16 & 23 Oct 6,13,20,27 Nov 2pm-2.30pm. Wednesdays 3,10,17,24 & 31 Oct 7,14,21,28 Nov 10am-10.30am & 2pm-2.30pm. Preschool Fancy Dress Story Times (Under 5’s) 4,11,18 & 25 Oct & 1,8,15,22,29 Nov 2pm-2.30pm Homework Club- Tuesdays & Fridays weekly during term time. 4pm-5.30pm. Offering homework resource advice, free internet access and online resources as well as free limited homework related photocopying and printouts during each session. Halloween Story time & activity (Ages 5-10) 30 Oct 1.30pm-2.30pm Celebrate Halloween by listening to some our favourite Halloween tales & then make some Spooky Stick Puppets!
Sketty Rhyme Time - 2,9,16,23 & 30th Oct, 10.30am-11am World Animals Day Rhyme Time - 3 Oct,1.30pm2.30pm Make an animal mask at our special Rhyme Time! Why not come in fancy dress? Winnie the Witch Day Fancy Dress Rhyme Time 30 Oct- 10.30am-11am & 4pm-5pm Celebrate 20 years of Winnie the Witch with us! Firework Fun!9 Nov 4-5pm Craft event,booking essential! Anti-Bullying Night 23 Nov 4-6pm Discussion & poster making.
St Thomas Homework Club - 1,4,8,11,15,18,22,25 & 29 Oct.3.30pm- 5.30pm Booking essential for internet use! Bounce & Rhyme - 1,8,15 & 22 Oct. 2pm-2.30pm
Townhill Art Club (11+) - 2,9,15 & 22 & 30 Oct & 6,13, 20, 27 Nov 4.30pm-5.30pm Baby Rhyme Time - 5,12,19 & 26 Oct & 2, 9, 16,23,30 Nov 10.30am-11am Homework Club - 5,12,19 & 26 Oct & 2,9,16,23,30 Nov 4pm-5.30pm Children’s Poetry Display - 1 Oct- 13 Oct - For National Poetry Day 6th Oct
Chocolate Sparklers Here is a really simple recipe for Bonfire Night. Kids will love them,plus there’s hardly any mess to clean up afterwards! You will need: Chocolate finger biscuits Small bowl of hot water Small bowl of sugar strands or hundreds and thousands Greaseproof paper Dip one end of a biscuit into the hot water and then into the sugar strands. Place on greaseproof paper and leave to set. Simple, quick and kids love them!
Book Review . . . . . By Five Minutes' Peace by Jill Murphy from The Large Family Five Minutes Peace is about a family of elephants and the mummy, Mrs Large, who just wants a few minutes peace from her busy family. But Lester, Laura and the baby have other ideas! They all want to show their mum their things but all she wants is some time on her own. This is a story that we can all sympathise with! " I like this story because it has lots of funny things in it and my favourite part is when the baby jumps in the bath with her mum and she doesn't take off her clothes!". Ella, age 5 Walk with a Wolf by Janni Howler “I liked this book as it is about wolves and they are like dogs. It is a story of how they live. They are hungry! They live in packs and only have babies in the springtime if food is there, and lots of it. They all eat together. If there is not a lot of food the older wolves eat first and the little wolves eat last. “ Anna, age 7 SELF HELP: GETTING IT TOGETHERIMPROVE YOUR ORGANISATIONAL SKILLS: Why can organisation seem like such hard work? We all know what to do, but making it happen is another story. It's so easy to add to that pile of papers on the table or to leave those coats, shoes and bags lying on the hall floor. We can make small steps to improve our own organisational skills and even help the kids to start learning some skills by getting them involved too! Organisation is not all about spending a fortune on plastic boxes and sticky labels, it's also not about starting at the top of your house and finishing at the bottom. Let's face it, the whole job is probably just too big to tackle in one day or to even muster up enough enthusiasm to last more than a couple of hours! Where to start? Make coming home happy! When in doubt start with the hallway - make an easily accessible 'dumping ground'. You need a place for shoes, bags, coats, papers and keys - all those things that you are carrying and should not be left strewn throughout the house. Put the non seasonal things away in a cupboard. Once everything has a place you'll immediately be able to see any extra stuff that builds up in the hallway and take care of it before it gets out of hand. If you prioritise your organising efforts where you waste most time putting things away, you will immediately reap the benefits. How to make it work? It will be no good unless the kids are on board, so here are a few tips to make sure your kids are part of
the solution, rather than just the cause of the problem. Getting the kids involved means letting them take care of things to their standards! If they help with putting away the clean clothes, they may not put them away perfectly but at least they’re in the drawer and mum didn't have to do it! If you want things done perfectly, that means committing to doing everything yourself (or hiring help!) If you constantly fight with your child about the state of their room, maybe it's time to realise that it's 'their room' and as long as it's clean enough to satisfy the health department and they put their dirty clothes in the wash basket regularly, it's time to give up the fight. It's okay to demand neatness in the areas of the house where you live but in the children's rooms, whether it's bedrooms or playrooms, it pays to try and relax. If your kids are happy in a state of quasi - pandemonium, it's just an exercise in frustration to try to convert them to neatness. We know it'd be nice to get the whole house organised, but it is near impossible to make that happen - it's all about organisation with a child friendly approach and realistic goals. Remember, start with the areas that drive you crazy on a daily basis. You'll feel much more organised and it may even inspire you to tackle other areas of the house! “One of the advantages of being disorderley is that one is constantly making exciting discoveries.” AA Milne
Baby Classes Artibods - www.artibods.co.uk artibods@gmail.com 01792 813052/07507 666073 Cookibods- www.cookibods.co.uk cookibods@hotmail.co.uk 01792 701613 / 07760 884449
letsgetmessyparties@live.co.uk www.letsgetmessyparties.co.uk Mad Science - After school programs,workshops,parties & special events.01792 348205 www.madscience.org info@madsciencesouthwales.com
Holibods - Various locations. 01792 813052/07507 666073 www.holibods.co.uk sian@holibods.co.uk
Children’s PartyBus - 2 Floors of fun on a bus! Facepainting available. Birthday parties & events. 01554 890777/07772471417 www.partybuswales.co.uk partybuswales@gmail.com
Monkey Music - Weekly music classes in SA1, Mumbles & Gower.Birthday parties, holday workshops & nursery sessions also available. 01792 260026 swansea@monkeymusic.co.uk www.monkeymusic.co.uk
Skidz Karting - Fforestfach Industrial Estate,Swansea,SA5 4DJ. 01792 580927 www.skidzkarting.co.uk
Melody Minis - Fun musical sessions for 0-4 year olds. Swansea & Neath. 07969 952188/01792 424095 www.melodyminis.co.uk tracey@melodyminis.co.uk
Zumba Townhill Swansea - Zumbatomic Kids Parties & After school workshops. Fun Zumba programme tailored to suit children aged 4-12. Contact Sam - 07794 579017 zumba_sam@live.co.uk www.zumba-sam.com. Facebook: Zumba Townhill Swansea
Ballet Classes Isaac-Clarke Academy of Dance - Ballet & Tap classes in Mumbles 07765 255013 www.icadance.com shelley@icadance.com
Cake Makers/Decoraters Sugar & Spice Cakes - Oxford Street, Swansea,SA1 3JG 01792 642713 www.sugarspicecakes.co.uk
Children’s Party Ideas
Childcare All Seasons Round - Out of School Club. Pontarddulais. October Half-Term Holiday Club29th Oct-2nd Nov. 8.30am-6pm Contact: 07948 110014 Baby Bug Day Nursery - 42A Gorwydd Road,Gowerton,Swansea,SA4 3AQ 01792 875550.Email:-sarasedgwick@hotmail.co.uk
Kool Krafty Kidz - Fun themed crafty parties.Swansea,Neath & Port Talbot. 07702 223939 noelle@koolkraftykidz.co.uk www.koolkraftykidz.co.uk
Dunvant Wraparound Playgroup- Dunvant Primary School, Dunvant Rd,Swansea, SA2 7SN 07594 907439/07790 928037
Loopy Lews Magic & Mayhem Show All areas covered. 07899 093065/01792 585335 info@loopylews.co.uk www.loopylews.co.uk
Highgate Day Nursery Uplands - Glanmor Road, Swansea, SA2 0QA 01792 281120 info@highgatedaynursery.co.uk www.highgatedaynursery.co.uk
Forest School Swansea,Neath, Port TalbotKilvrough Manor,Gower.01792 367118 Kindercafe - Swansea. Cafe,bistro & party venue. 01792 653688 www.thekindercafe.co.uk www.forestschoolsnpt.org.uk
Let’s get Messy - Fun filled parties for all ages! Highgate Day Nursery Morriston - Swansea, SA6 6NN 01792 298080 Bethan 07791 544715 info@highgatedaynursery.co.uk 39 www.highgatedaynursery.co.uk
Little Acorns Day Nursery - Bryn Road, Brynmill,Swansea,SA2 0AP, 01792 465701 www.littleacornsswansea.co.uk Oaktree Playgroup - Sketty Park Drive, Sketty, Swansea. www.parklandschoolswansea.co.uk Pre-school playgroup am & pm sessions available suitable for 2-4 year old. Contact Mrs Holland 01792 205462 Treforys Tiny Tots Day Nursery - Rainbow Business Centre,Phoenix Way,Swansea Enterprise Park,SA7 9EH- 01792 796198 The Grounds of Morriston Hospital,Morriston, Swansea,SA6 6NL- 01792 700622 www.treforys-tinytots.co.uk Twizzle Lodge - Hawthorne Avenue, Uplands,Swansea, SA2 0LP 01792 297060 www.twizzlelodge.co.uk
Children’s Gift Ideas
Gower Heritage Centre Parkmill,Gower.. 01792 371206 reception@gowerheritagecentre.co.uk www.gowerheritagecentre.co.uk
Family Photographers Ashley Winter Photography - Portrait Photographer. 07502 456966. Info@ashleywinterphotography.com or Facebook:Ashley Winter Photography.
Family Friendly Retailers Trainer Mini - 375 Carmarthen Rd, Swansea, SA5 8LW. 01792 651505 www.trainermini.co.uk
Golf Classes Mike Hobbs Golf School- Gowerton Golf Range, Victoria Rd, Gowerton,SA4 3AB 01792 875188 www.mikehobbsgolf@yahoo.com
Gymnastics Classes
Bibbylicious - Handmade dribble bibs, blankets, cushions & taggies made to order. Lisabibs@hotmail.co.uk Facebook: Bibbylicious
City of Swansea Gymnastics CentreAbergelli Rd, Swansea,SA5 4DY, 01792 578774 contact@swanseagymnastics.org.uk www.swanseagymnastics.org.uk
Dance Wear
Hairdressers
Quatro Gymnastics Leotards Swansea Gymnsatics Centre,Abergelli Rd, SA5 4DY 01792 587796 www.quatrogymnastics.com info@quatrogymnastics.com
Dance Lessons Makers of Dance Energy (MODE) (Ages 3-19) Classes in Brynmill,Penyrheol & Pontardawe 01792 204885 www.modedance.co.uk
Days Out BBC Dr Who Experience - Cardiff Bay 0844 8012279 www.doctorwhoexperience.com City & County of Swansea www.swanseabayfestival.com Grand Theatre Swansea - Singleton St, Swansea, SA1 3QJ. 01792 475715
Joshuas Kids - Newton Rd, Mumbles, SA3 4AX 01792 367774 www.joshuasofmumbles.com
Independent Schools Oakleigh House School - Co-educational Independent Preparatory School ,38 Penlan Crescent,Uplands,SA2 ORL,Tel- 01792 298537 info@oakleighhouseschool.co.uk Craig-y-Nos School- Independent Primary School,Clyne Common, Bishopston,SA3 3JB, 01792 234288/01792 232002 (Playgroup) www.craigynos.com
Martial Arts First Strike - Freestyle Karate & Kickboxing.Clydach.01792 449970/ 07792 534968 www.firststrikekarate.co.uk anthonyevans39@hotmail.com
Jenny Treasure Tae Kwon Do Kindercafe,Swansea Tue/Thurs 6.30-7.45pm 01792 511545 /07523 968020 j_treasure@hotmail.com www.treasuretkd.co.uk Kickboxing in Swansea - Freestyle Karate & Kickboxing. Gorseinon,Dunvant & Waunarlwydd area. 0800 6125056/07787 154409 www.kickboxinginswansea.co.uk
Music Teachers Ruth Hale - CT ABRSM - Private Flute Tuition,beginner to Grade 8. Tel 01792 429713/07733042170 ruthhale1@sky.com
Rugby Swansea Uplands RFC - Mini/Junior Rugby Team. Paul Coode 07834 995802 www.swanseauplandsrfc.net
Soft Play Cafe Play - Castleton Walk Arcade, Newton Rd,Mumbles. 01792 363482 Play King - Dafen,Llanelli,SA14 8QW 01554 757808 info@theplayking.com www.theplayking.com
Swimming Lessons Poseidon Swim School- Quality Swimming Tuition for all ages & abilities. 01792 281365. www.poseidonswimschool.com
Tutors Swansea Tuition Centre- (Ages 6+) Woodfield St,Morriston 01792 700111 swanseatuitioncentre.co.uk English,Maths & GCSE Science
Well done to Jake Vincent from Hendrefoilan School in Killay,who has won a class trip to the Community Farm in Swansea! Here is his brilliant poem “We’d rather…….” that won him the competition!
I think that my class should win a half day farm and animal tour at the Community Farm because……. Instead of lessons, We’d rather farming sessions. Instead of writing with pens, We’d rather feed hens,
The Learning Curve - (Ages 5+) Newton Rd, Mumbles.01792 366434 info@tlcmumbles.co.uk English & Maths tuition.
Instead of maths courses, We’d rather stroke horses,
Kip McGrath - (Ages 5-18) Maths & English tuition. Gorseinon Centre- 01792 891144 NEW Sketty Centre in Tycoch- 01792 299996
Instead of art and drama, We’d like to meet the farmer,
To advertise in our Directory costs only £5…..so get your business noticed by 10,000 families all over the Swansea area
To win, please tell us how As we want to see the cow!