M a rc h / A p r
il 2016
Your handbag sized guide
www.kidscenemagazine.co.uk
ISSUE 22
enjoyswanseabay.com joiobaeabertawe.com Find money saving vouchers
What’s on this Easter Your guide enclosed!
for Plantasia, Anna’s Welsh Zoo and many more...
Corporate discount scheme for local and national companies, and Child care vouchers accepted
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St. Michael’s School Co-Ed Independent day and boarding school 3-18 years
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www.stmikes.co.uk St. Michael’s School | Llanelli | 01554 820 325 | office@stmikes.co.uk
School of Early Years at University of Wales Trinity Saint David How children develop and learn is a fascinating area of study. The School of Early Years has developed a suite of new and innovative degree programmes designed specifically to provide our graduates with the skills and competence essential to work in the early years education and care sector. We now have programmes on both the Carmarthen and the Townhill Swansea Campus. Programmes are taught either in English, Welsh or bilingually. We also have programmes which run in the community or in areas where there is a demand for provision.
We have daytime study provision and we also offer flexible learning provision delivered on evenings and Saturdays which allows students to maintain work commitments as well as gain a degree. There are also opportunities for personal and professional development through engaging and relevant Postgraduate and MA programmes. The Postgraduate Diploma/MA Early Years Education and Care offers modules on research skills, well-being, children’s learning and development and reflective practice. The Postgraduate Diploma/MA Early Literacy focuses on emergent literacy, including history, policy and research, literate environments and alternate literacies.
97% of UWTSD students studying at the School of Early Childhood were satisfied with the overall support experience Global International Student Barometer and Student Barometer, Autumn Wave 2015.
New to Townhill Swansea Campus, UWTSD, BA Early Years Education and Care (Early Years Practitioner) 2 years UCAS Code: 63H7
• This is a two year fast track degree programme designed for those already working in the childcare and education sector. • The programme is being developed with the Care Council for Wales to offer an Early Years Practitioner pathway which includes opportunities for assessed professional competence.
BA Early Years Education and Care (Early Years Practitioner) UCAS Code: 2T41
• A new and innovative three year degree programme which has been developed to provide students with a detailed understanding of early years education and care. • This programme is offered in the day on our Carmarthen Campus.
For more information on any of our courses, please contact: Glenda Tinney g.tinney@uwtsd.ac.uk 01267676605
www.uwtsd.ac.uk/early-childhood Faculty of Education & Communities @PCynnarUWTSD
www.uwtsd.ac.uk
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Multi-Sports organise fun and exciting sports camps for both boys and girls from the ages of 5 to 13 years old, for all abilities. The camps take place between 9am and 3pm at a number of venues.
FOOTBALL / GYMNASTICS / DODGEBALL / BASKETBALL / ROUNDERS / ATHLETICS AND MUCH MORE!
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Easter Holiday Dates: Thursday 7th & Friday 8th April
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Spring Half Term Dates: Thursday 2nd & Friday 3rd June
2 Day Camp £30
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Summer Holiday 1 Dates: Monday 25th, Tuesday 26th & Wednesday 27th July
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Mar/Apr 2016 Hi again! I’m writing this welcome letter during one of the last days of the February half term and what a half term it has been. The whole family has been ill. Tonsillitis has swept through our house like the plague and it’s been pretty miserable for all! So, I for one am very excited at the prospect of the Easter holidays and all the plans to be made, although distant as they may seem right now.
Contents Page 9-10 | What’s On Page 17 | Children’s Literature Page 19 | Home Schooling Page 22 | Mumprenuer Page 24 | Dr Louise - Postnatal depression Page 26 | Montessori Way... Page 31-32 | Healthy eating for kids Page 44 | Vouchers & Competitions
This bumper Easter edition shows off some of the best holiday clubs available, so whether you need child care or have active kids take a browse and see what’s on offer. There certainly is plenty on offer this Easter to keep your kids entertained and this edition of Kidscene is brimming full of great ideas on where to go and what to see. I hope you all have a happy Easter!
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Bikeability... Tots On Tyres Monday 4th April 2pm-3pm. Tots and toddlers bring your wheels and play with us, all wheels welcome (e.g. scooters & cycles). Start them young and have some fun Cycle Skills Tuesday 29th March - 5th April Cycling games, competitions, basic cycle maintenance and cycling skills training for new riders. Lots of fun and games to be had! Booking is essential please call 07584044284 or 07968109145. Email: bikeabilitywales@ymail.com Venue: Dunvant RFC, Killay, Swansea. SA2 7RU
www.bikeabilitywales.org.uk
20,000 copies delivered into primary schools from SA1 to SA14 Next edition: May/June 2016 Copy deadline: April 15th 2016 sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk www.kidscenemagazine.co.uk Call: 07979 283096 kidsceneswansea @kidscene1
Saturday 2nd April
Neath Town Hall, Church Place, Neath SA11 3LL • 11am - 1pm Plenty of refreshments and children’s entertainment!
www.facebook.com/cheekimonkeysswansea Contact Vikki on 07802 807327
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www.baby-ccinos.co.uk
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26th - Easter craft Fun at Oystermouth Castle. Join us for an Easter themed crafty workshop in the castle. Drop in any time between 11.30am - 3.30pm. 3-11 years. 50p per child | Normal admission charges apply. Parents are required to stay with their child during the session.
This Easter M ARCH
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5th-18th - Weekend activities at the WWT Wetlands. All day Den building 11am-12pm Minibeast hunt 1pm-2pm Family bird watching 2pm-4.30pm Craft workshop Fri18th - Bat Walk
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6th - Mother’s Day at the National Botanical Gardens of Wales. Mums go FREE on this special day!
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10th - High School Musical at the Ffwrnes Theatre. 7pm. Saturday Matinee 2pm. F: £13. Llanelli Musical Players presents. Disney Channel’s smash hit musical comes to life at the Ffwrnes! Come watch and listen to Troy, Gabriella and the students of East High deal with issues of first love, friends and that ultimate balance of life versus school. 0845 2263510 theatrausirgar.co.uk
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11th - Kung Fu Panda 3 at the Gwynn Hall, Neath. Tel: 0300 365 6677
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12th - National Disabled Day at the National Botanical Gardens of Wales
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14th-28th Breakfast or Tea with the Easter Bunny at Wyvale Garden Centre. £9.99 per child & £3.99 per adult. To book: www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk
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25th - 28th March, Easter Fun at the Gwili Railway - Enjoy traditional Easter fun at the steam railway all included in your special event ticket price. Take a trip back in time on the steam railway and join in the Easter Trail. Lots of fun for children aged 12 and under Railway Activity Pack with Easter Bunny Trail, Easter Colouring Competition, Easter Recipe and Quiz, Visit the Easter Bunny, Easter Egg for every child. gwili-railway.co.uk | 01267 238213 25th - Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice at the Gwynn Hall, Neath. Tel: 0300 365 6677 25th-28th - St Fagans Easter Hunt. 11-2pm. Family Easter trail. Solve the riddles and follow the trail around the site, then it’s back to the start to claim your eggciting prize! Suitable for Children 4+ £2.50 per child. 25th - 11th April - Easter holiday fun at Llanelli Wetlands Centre. As part of the Great Weekend of Adventure 2016, we are calling on all those who love the outdoors to help us find our GIANT rubber ducks! Spring is a wonderful time to visit WWT Llanelli Wetland Centre with new life being seen everywhere. B There will be prizes available for everyone who can locate our missing ducks! 25th - Zootopia at the Gwynn Hall, Neath. Tel: 0300 365 6677 25th - Easter egg hunt, Mumbles Pier 12.30pm 25th - Easter Eggstravaganza at the Waterfront Museum. 124pm. Free event.
26th - Apr 10th - Easter Fun at The Gower Heritage Centre. Meet Alice and the Mad Hatter and join in on their tea party, egg and spoon races, duck races (additional charge applies), meet the Easter bunny, animal handling & feeding sessions with our animal carers. Visit our eggucation incubation centre and if you’re lucky you could see some chicks hatching!
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29th - Wizard of Oz at Swansea Grand Theatre. Join Sooty, Sweep and Soo with Richard Cadell from CITV’s ‘The Sooty Show’ in this magical adventure! There will be an opportunity to meet Sooty and Richard after the show.
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30th - The Railway Children at Pontardawe Arts Centre. The Olivier Award winning production filmed live from Kings Cross Theatre London. The Railway children tells the story of Bobbie, Peter and Phyllis, 3 children whose lives change dramatically when their father is mysteriously taken away. Showing at 2pm and 7.30pm
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31st The Jolly Totz Festival at Pontardawe Arts Centre showing: Arnold’s Big Adventure at Pontardawe Arts Centre. 11, 1 & 1.30pm. Some acorns DO fall far from the tree… Gather under the branches for the biggest day in the woodland calendar, Drop Day! Arnold the acorn is about to drop from his tree and begin his amazing adventure in search of somewhere to put down his roots. Join Arnold as his story flies in the wind, wiggles across the land and splashes into the sea.
Cadw Easter egg hunts: (normal entrance charges apply) 25th-28th March Cilgerran Castle, Pembrokeshire 10-4pm 27th March Caerphilly Castle 11-4pm Oxwich Castle 11-4pm Castell Coch 11-4pm
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1st - The Jolly Totz Festival at Pontardawe Arts Centre with storytelling, music & craft activities.10.30am. 1st - Bear Behaving Badly: The Jam Sandwiches and Ice Cream Tour at Swansea Grand Theatre. Get ready for chaos and calamity as the hilarious CBBC show Bear Behaving Badly takes to the stage in its first ever nationwide tour.Come and laugh along with Nev, boogie with Beatrice and sing along with Blue Peter’s Barney Harwood as they are joined by Crazy Keith, Aunt Barbara and Mr. Prank in an adventure that’s full of mischief, laughter and mayhem!
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2nd - Cheeki Monkeys Big Baby & Children’s Market, Neath Town Hall. 2nd - Dungeons & Dragons Day at Oystermouth Castle. Fancy meeting some baby dragons?Join us for a fun filled day of storytelling, puppetry and dragon processions. 11.00am - 4.30pm Event free, Normal castle admission charges apply.
2nd - Horrible History: The Keepers of the Castle at the Waterfront Museum. 1pm & 3pm. Join The Merrymakersfor a hilarious and irreverent ride through Welsh history.This show has sword fights, jousting, lovesick princes, boastful earls, hornpipe dancing, songs, witches, inaccurate accents and some of most terrible jokes you will ever hear. Free event.
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5th-7th - Animal Antics: Scales and Tails at Plantasia
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6th - Easter Workshop: Psychedelic Workshop. Glynn Vivian, YMCA.
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8th -10th - The Little Mermaid Jr. at the Ffwrnes Theatre, Llanelli. Friday 8th- 7.30pm. Saturday 9th April 3.30pm & 7.30pm. Sunday 10th April 3.30pm. F: £10. SA15 Stage School. Journey “under the sea” with Ariel and her aquatic friends in Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR. In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young mermaid Ariel longs to leave her ocean home and her fins behind, and live in the world above. 0845 2263510 theatrausirgar.co.uk 8th - The Huntsman: Winter’s War at the Gwynn Hall, Neath. Tel: 0300 365 6677
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9th - Crafty Fun at Oystermouth Castle. 11.30am - 3.30pm. Suitable for children aged 3-11 years. 50p per child, Normal admission charges apply
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15th - The Jungle Book at the Gwynn Hall, Neath. Tel: 0300 365 6677
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24th - NCT Nearly New Children’s Sale at the LC2. 10.30-1pm.
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29th - Captain America: Civil War at the Gwynn Hall, Neath. Tel: 0300 365 6677
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30th - Medieval Living History Day at Oystermouth Castle. 11-4.30pm. Ever wondered what it would have been like to live at Oystermouth Castle in Medieval times? Step back in time at Medieval Living History Day. Come and see the Ostreme Theatre Players become characters such as the Lord of Gower, the White Lady.
Cadbury Easter Hunt at the National Trust
Hunt for clues to win a Cabdury Easter egg. £2 per child Booking not required ................. 25th - 28th March Dinefwr Park, Llandeilo. 11-4pm. ................. 25th - 28th March Dyffryn Gardens, Vale of Glamorgan 11-3.30pm. ................. Rhossili Sat 26th March 11am – 3pm (meet outside National Trust shop) ................. Pennard Sunday 27th March 11am – 3pm (meet at National Trust car park)
9th - Frozen Sing-a-long at Swansea Grand Theatre. A full screening of Disney’s FROZEN with lyrics on screen. Introduced by a live host to guide you through this interactive screening showing you how to use your free prop bag, warm up your singing voices and teach you some dance moves with the help of the Singalonga Princesses.
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10th - Free Art Workshop: Stained Glass. Swansea Museum.
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5.
Collect some leaves, feathers and stones to make your own funny face nature people.
Make some yummy hot chocolate dipping spoons with leftover Easter eggs. You can use teaspoons that you already have at home or buy a packet of wooden teaspoons from supermarkets for a few pounds. Melt your chocolate in a bowl placed over a saucepan of simmering hot water, once melted, scoop out the melted chocolate to cover your spoon and lay on a plate covered with a sheet of greaseproof paper and sprinkle with hundreds and thousands. Pop them in the fridge to set.
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Head outside and collect some twigs to make your own birds nest, you could even hard boil a few eggs and decorate with permanent marker pens.
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Go on a carrot hunt!! Use different coloured elastic bands to wrap around the carrots so that each child/ team has there own colour to search for. You could even add a piece of gold card to one carrot and whomever finds it could get a special ‘golden carrot’ prize. How about taking a yummy carrot cake and a flask of hot chocolate with you and have a rustic springtime picnic too!
4.
Make some beautiful butterflies to hang in your garden using empty plastic milk cartons. Carefully cut the milk cartons into butterfly shapes and use permanent marker pens to decorate them, Poke a paper clip through the plater to attach to your trees.
visit ‘Family days tried & tested’ on Facebook to check out the magical, frugal & fun activities that we’ll be getting upto.
Spring clean! Smaller kids love to help out with household chores. Put together a pretend play spring cleaning kit for them, fill with rubber gloves, polishing clothes, pegs,a dustpan and brush and a spray bottle fill with water. You can buy all you need to fill it very cheaply with a visit to the poundshops. You could even make a washing line down low for your child to hang out socks & pants or dolly clothes.
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Why not have a Easter Spring time bath! Get the kids to decorate the bathroom to look like a springtime haven. Use fake flowers (or real flowers) to place around the room, use paper to cut out flower bath confetti, buy some yummy easter treats and some bubble bath to indulge in and make a ‘do not disturb’ sign for the door.
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Serve up an ‘eggs-citing’ breakfast! Use Sharpie permanent marker pens to decorate your eggs before boiling.
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Try your hand at some blossom pictures, simply collect any fallen blossom and use it to make pictures.
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Make some beautiful nature fairy wands. Collect lengths of bend twigs and use string to tie them into a heart shape, finish your wand by adding foliage and ribbon before heading out to cast some fairy magic.
Joshua’s Kids Cuts CHILDREN’S REWARDS Lollipops, Sweets Stickers, nail painting, glitter tattoos and cookies!
www.Joshuasofmumbles.com
[bABY’S|1ST|HAIRCUT|CERTIFICATE]
Kids can watch their Favourite DVD’s
Play... Xbox & Playstation & lots of toys!
Castleton Arcade, Newton Road, Mumbles 01792 367774
Real Life - Wildlife! Anna’s Welsh Zoo @ Manor Park is a conservation led wildlife park set in 52 acres of beautiful Pembrokeshire countryside. We offer hands on experiences in five Zoonique animal walkthroughs, wander with wallabies, linger with the lemurs and see the first Rhinos in Wales for 40,000 years!
INDOOR PLAY COMING
2016
Free car parking, real food café and gift shop. Don’t forget the pig walk, hayplay, ping pong and digiwall. Open daily 363 days of the year 10am-6pm (opening times vary in the winter) See website for prices www.annaswelshzoo.co.uk. Double Bubble Season Pass - Pay twice come as many times as you like until 31/12/2016. Stars of BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Animal Planet, showing in 16 countries around the globe!
Living Sustainably... 85% of parents would change their family diet to help protect the planet - and Wales is setting a great example. New survey results released by WWF-UK have revealed that nationwide, 85% of parents of primary school age children are willing to change their family diet to help protect the environment. Unfortunately, only 13% of parents are currently taking steps to improve their impact, with a lack of information on the subject holding many of them back.
Wales is setting a good example in living sustainably as our survey reveals a high level of growing at home and at the family allotment (61%), which possibly underpins the strong communities in Wales and the tradition of passing information down through families. However, only 16% of children in Wales have tried growing veg and fruit at school, so WWF have launched the Plant2Plate campaign to encourage more schools to get involved, including a recipe competition where schools have the chance to win £1000 for creating a recipe from ingredients grown at school. For more information see: plant2plate at www.wwf.org.uk
Many members receive CashBack equivalent to 25% of their monthly household bills.
www.discounts-4-u.co.uk | www.love-opportunities.co.uk Please see www.facebook.com/awesomesavings for more info. For Further information call 01792 417715 or call/text: 07964749403
FREE Registration & 10% discount off the first months fees if sign up in March & April
Tree Tops Day Nursery
www.treetopsdaynursery.co.uk (Formerly Craig-y-nos School)
Clyne Common Swansea SA3 3JB
children from 3months to 8 years old!
To find out more or arrange a viewing call us on 01792 233227 Open Monday - Friday 7:45am - 6:15pm (excluding bank holidays)
ren a p y s r bu o f y r urse N T S EWE N s ’ r Gowe
! y a l p t st sof
e w e n er’s
Gow
ts!
N OPE
S DAY EK A WE PM -5 10AM
suita for able ages ll !
01792 234304
www.gowerplay.co.uk | mail@gowerplay.co.uk
Rear of Tree Tops Day Nursery | Clyne Common | SA3 3JB
£4.50 ENTRY with FREE Pasta Lunch
Exclusive Voucher see page 44 for further details
...and the many exciting events that are taking place across Swansea - including Easter holidays March/April highlights include: Saturday 26 March
Easter Crafty Fun for Children - Oystermouth Castle
Sunday 27 March
Dylan’s Swansea Guided Tour - Dylan Thomas Centre
5 - 7 April
Animal Antics: Scales and Tails - Plantasia
Wednesday 6 April
Easter Workshop: Psychedelic Animation - Glynn Vivian YMCA
Sunday 10 April
Free Art Workshop: Stained Glass - Swansea Museum
Planning an event in Swansea? Why not add it for FREE to
enjoyswanseabay.com
Find out all that is taking place at
www.enjoyswanseabay.com
...a’r digwyddiadau cyffrous niferus sy’n cael eu cynnal ar draws Abertawe - gan gynnwys gwyliau’r Pasg Mae uchafbwyntiau Mawrth/Ebrill yn cynnwys: Sadwrn 26 Mawrth
Hwyl Crefftau’r Pasg i Blant - Castell Ystumllwynarth
Sul 27 Mawrth
Taith Dywys Abertawe Dylan - Canolfan Dylan Thomas
5 - 7 Ebrill
Antics Anifeiliaid: Cennau a Chynffonnau - Plantasia
Mercher 6 Ebrill
Gweithdy’r Pasg: Animeiddio Seicedelig - Glynn Vivian YMCA Gweithdy Celf am Ddim: Gwydr Lliw - Amgueddfa Abertawe
Sul 10 Ebrill
Yn cynllunio digwyddiad yn Abertawe? Gallwch ei ychwanegu AM DDIM at
joiobaeabertawe.com
Cewch wybod am y cyfan sy’n digwydd yn
www.joiobaeabertawe.com
Children’s Liter Cardiff Children’s Literature Festival 16 – 24 April
T
raditionally, Wales is significantly identified with a strong musical national heritage. But it also has an important long standing literary tradition from the dark and fantastic imagination of children’s author, Roald Dahl to the popular poetry of Dylan Thomas. In fact, Thomas often cited as Wales’ most famous writer was actually born in Swansea in 1914 and despite dying prematurely at the age of 39 remains a great influence and inspiration today! In 2016, Wales will be playing host to many outstanding events in the literary calendar. One date to circle is the Cardiff Children’s Literature Festival taking place at key venues across the city in April. Started in 2013, the festival continues to grow attracting big names in the lineup including award winning and celebrated author Dame Jacqueline Wilson, CBBC’s Sam and Mark, CBeebies Jess French and the Welsh Children’s Poet Laureate Anni Llŷn.
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There are over 50 events on offer from a wide range of presentations to workshops and activities including scriptwriting, storytelling, and poetry to comics. Great for picking up tips or stretching your talents at trying something new! There are sessions held in both English and Welsh. The festival is dedicated to bringing alive the marvelous magical world of children’s books. It also gives the opportunity to engage with a wider range of books and writing styles and enthuse children and adults alike to understand and appreciate the importance and joy of reading. What could be a more fun way to encourage children to read, than being inspired by some of the best names on the book shelf! The festival also celebrates local homegrown talent making a name for themselves.
Huw Aaron
We caught up with Huw Aaron, the festival’s Cardiff based illustrator. Huw is a really cool artist and cartoonist whose pictures and comic stripes have adorned such magazines such as Prospect, Private Eye and the Readers Digest, as well as greetings cards.
He’s also illustrated a number of children’s books including Steve and the Singing Pirates and Steve’s Dreams. He’ll be running a session on how to create your
own comic strip and create your own characters. Huw, what are you most looking forward to at the festival? I always look forward to the festival since it began in 2013, and it gets better every year. This year, I’ll definitely check out Gary Northfield’s session. Laura Sheldon will be great too, and Dan Anthony’s Pirate Walk sounds cool! Also, you have to check out beatboxer Mr Phormula. How are you contributing to this year’s programme? I’ll be scribbling and shouting and doodling and waving my hands about and encouraging other people to do the same, and hope that at the end of it we’ve all drawn some cool stuff. It’ll be a welsh language session, and I’ll be talking a bit about my upcoming comic project - Mellten - and helping people make a start on their own awesome comics. How did you become an illustrator / cartoonist? I think I was always an illustrator/ cartoonist, just that 7 years ago or so I figured out that I was... after trying a few other jobs that really didn’t work out! I just started sending some cartoons to magazines and papers and it grew from there.
ature festival’s Have you always enjoyed reading and drawing? Oh yes - I grew up in a house full of books and readers, so for me there’s nothing more comforting and homely than a bunch of people sitting in complete silence reading! I’m not sure where the drawing itch came from, but my parents tell me I drew over the walls as a toddler so I guess it was always there. If you could have illustrated any children’s book which one would it be and why? Man, imagine seeing those Roald Dahl books in draft, manuscript form. All that magic and bubbling wonder, bald and unadorned. If they were to unearth a previously undiscovered book by Roald Dahl, I would literally give my right arm to illustrate it. And then draw with my feet. To be fair, Quentin Blake did an OK job of illustrating them, didn’t he? What a double act! Who is your favourite villain in a children’s book and why? I really loved the Redwall series as a youngster, heroic mice monks defending their abbey from an evil band of rats and weasels. The baddie in that was a really really bad rat called Cluny the Scourge and he put the shivers right up me.
coming up in 2016
I
f you love cultural and literary festivals then make a note of these events in the forthcoming year. These include festivals that celebrate the most popular and recognsied writers in contemporay children’s literature to championing emerging new voices of all ages.
Hay Festival Wales
Held in the picturesque setting of the Wye Valley, from 26th May to 5th June 2016. Hay Festival Wales is the literary highlight of the UK’s cultural calendar, bringing together the greatest writers, thinkers and performers of the moment in a vibrant exchange of ideas and celebration of creative work for all ages. This year’s event is set to be one of the best yet with a diverse range to choose from: Award-winning scientists to global leaders, cutting edge intellectuals, and prize-winning writers, to world famous performers, musicians and comedians, plus teen heroes and Children’s favourites in the festival’s strand for young people: Hay Fever.
the biggest children’s authors and illustrators from the UK and internationally such as Lauren Child, Michael Rosen, and Michael Morpurgo.
Centenary of Roald Dahl (1916 – 2016) Roald Dahl Day is held annually on September 13th, the day of his birth. 2016 marks the celebration of his centenary. Many events are being held throughout the year in Wales and the UK. CITY OF THE UNEXPECTED Taking place in September. City of the Unexpected celebrates the wonderful story worlds of Dahl through a city-wide range of events, from large-scale spectacles to smaller theatrical and art commissions from Welsh artists. For further information on any of the literary events featured and more contact Literature Wales post@literaturewales.org
With thanks to Phillipa Rae
Bath Children’s Literature Festival For any budding illustrators out there, what advice would you give! Draw draw draw draw draw draw. Draw everything, all the time. If that sounds horrible, don’t be an illustrator.
Thank you, Huw!
30th September – 9th October
This is one of the largest children’s book festivals in the UK. Its programme for 2016 has yet to be announced but it has in the past attracted some of
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What about child welfare concerns?
N
adia Sawalha does it. Will Smith does it. Tens of thousands of UK families do it. Home educating is on the rise as more and more parents realise that not only is it legal, it often makes a lot more sense. With bullying rife in schools today, special educational needs not being met, fines for absence, cost of uniform, school trips, dinners, transport – if you are able to educate your children at home then why not? Do you have to be a teacher?! Actually no you don’t. You can be a facilitator instead. There are different styles of home educating so it depends which route you go. Some prefer the structured approach, workbooks, timetables, tests. Others go straight into unschooling where the children follow their own interests and build on them themselves. Many fall in the middle of those two and take the semi-structured approach. Provide your children with learning opportunities and watch them learn and grow. You, as their parent, know them better than anyone else in the world. You taught them from the beginning, to speak, to walk, to feed, dress and wash themselves. When you hand them over to school, you are delegating the responsibility that was yours to begin with. You can take it back any time you want.
What about socialisation?
There are loads of opportunities to socialise. Home educated children are out and about, meeting and talking to people of all ages. They meet up with other home educated children via local groups, and after school hours they do the same things that schooled children do. They can still see their old school friends too. They get a more rounded social education, however because they are not in “forced association” with the same 30+ people for 6 hours a day, they have more variety and the friendships formed are equally strong.
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There have been a few stories in the news blaming home education for cases of neglect. If you look deeper however, home education in itself was not at fault. There were always other factors. Home educated children are no more invisible than schooled children, and far more of those have slipped through the net unnoticed. Swansea has a large and strong home ed community, and the transformation in several of the children has been nothing short of amazing. Children who suffered with anxiety or struggled to learn the basics are now blossoming and thriving in their own environment, learning steadily at their own pace, their own interests, their own style, their own way. If you would like to find out more, then contact www.facebook.com/SwanseaHomeEducators, who can signpost you to your local info and support groups.
Steph Thielen
Secretary, Swansea Home Educators
Pace Academy of Gymnastics are a group of tumbling gymnasts who meet at Penclawdd Community Centre on Tuesdays and Thursdays after school for ages 4+, with preschool sessions on a Wednesday morning for 0-4yrs. From the beginning of March we will also be starting trampolining sessions. For more information about our classes and parties please visit our Facebook Page www.facebook.com/ paceacademyof gymnsatics/ After Easter we will be including dance sessions in Penclawdd, as well as opening a new unit for our international British Gymnastics gymnasts, elite squad and development squad to train in.
Easter Fun
Saturday 26th March - Sunday 10th April 10.00am - 5.00pm Follow the White Rabbit to The Gower Heritage Wonderland, for a most important date! Meet Alice, the Mad Hatter and the White Rabbit (our special Easter Bunny) and join in with a whole host of egg-tivities! Don a pair of Bunny ears for the egg and spoon races and even the spoon, tea cup, tea spoon and egg races!! Bounce along in our Great Bunny Sack Race! And if after all that you need a drink, then there is always time for tea, and you can have tea and lots of fun at The Maddest Mad Hatters tea party you will ever attend, with stories and games galore! There is even a Mad-Hatters hat competition,
so bring your Easter Bonnets and Mad Hat's for our Mad Hatters Hat Parade, if you didn't bring your own do not despair, you can make one in our craft room (additional charge applies) along with a whole host of other Easter crafts!! You can even follow Alice on a special egg-tastic treasure hunt. There are also animal handling and feeding sessions with our animal carers, and our speacial Easter Quiz to find all of our naughty run away rabbits and win a prize. So hop along and have a very merry day of Easter Madness!
Gypsy Jazz Swing Guitar Festival
SATURDAY 26TH MARCH
Gower Heritage Centre, Parkmill, Gower, Swansea, SA3 2EH
You may need to bring your pyjamas as you will be 'egg'hausted by the end of your visit!
For one day and one evening only at the Gower Heritage Centre with headlining International band Irene Ypenburg GYPSY SWING BAND.
Opening Hours 10am - 5.30pm Monday to Sunday
01792 371206 | www.gowerheritagecentre.co.uk
Mum to Mumpreneur Tell us about your business Sew Sweet William is a textile design studio, makery and gift shop where I run weekly classes for anybody who would like to learn to sew. At the moment I have a children’s sewing club for boys and girls after school on Mondays and Fridays. There are details of other adult classes and workshops on my website. During the day I usually work in the shop studio making personalised cushions, fabric collages, bunting, bags, children’s clothes and anything else I happen to fancy at the time! The shop is large and bright and perfect for children’s birthday parties, baby showers or hen parties all with a sewing theme. We also have the occasional coffee and crochet morning which is a lovely social occasion where beginners can learn how to crochet from our more ex-perienced friends. As I am a qualified teacher and dyslexia specialist I also use the shop to run a dyslexia homework club and will soon be running courses and workshops for parents to understand more about dyslexia and how to help their children.
SARAH
Where did you begin and what motivated you to start your own business? I have always enjoyed sewing and over the years have made many things for friends from cushions to bridesmaid dresses. It has always been a little dream to have my own shop and to sew all day. After sadly losing my lovely husband in 2010, I realised that life is too short to juggle a stressful job and a home, my children were my priority and things had to change in order for me to be able to put them first. It was an idea at the back of my mind for a long time and spending time with similarly ‘crafty’ friends helped to clarify my vision. At about the same time the shop in Killay became available and I decided to just go for it! The shop is really just an extension of my home, I needed somewhere to put all the fabric I can’t stop buying. Both my children are very creative and love spending time in the shop with me working on their own projects. George (age 7) is often to be found in his den underneath the till or sewing something on the machine! Tabitha age (19) is studying illustration in Cardiff Metropolitan University and has written and illustrated a children’s book which is on sale in the shop. What do you like to do to relax? With a 19 year old daughter and 7 year old son there isn’t a lot of time to relax! Last year I bought a 1969 VW camper van so when we have time our favourite thing to do is to drive down to Bracelet Bay for a play on the
beach then a hot chocolate or fish and chips in the van. I can’t sit still for very long and as I find sewing relaxing, I often end up making something at home most evenings. What’s been your biggest challenge and how have you over-come it? Leaving a secure job and starting a business from scratch with no business experience was terrifying but exciting! I’ve learnt most things as and when I’ve come up against it. I didn’t have a business plan I just knew what I wanted to do. Luckily I know and have met enough people who have been able to help me out with advice when I’ve needed it. Give us your top tip for a well balanced home and work life. The most important thing is to have a job you love doing then it’s easy to balance things because it doesn’t actually feel like work. Being my own boss means I have control over when I work so my family comes first and I work around that. I have learnt to put less pressure on myself and only take on projects I know I can achieve without impacting on family time. As a single parent, having family and friends who are happy to help out has been invaluable, I couldn’t do it without their support. What is the one piece of advice you would give to other mum-preneurs? If you have a dream to do something you really love, life is too short to not do something about it. Follow your instincts because they are usually right. It’s very easy to see all the barriers in your way and there are a million reasons to play it safe and just carry on doing what you always done. Sensible people out there will be horrified, but if I had written a ‘business plan’ I probably wouldn’t have done it, it would have looked far too frightening in black and white. Having confidence that everything will work out gives you the motivation to make it work.
www.sewsweetwilliam.co.uk
Sew Sweet William, 452 Gower Road, Killay, Swansea SA2 7AL | 01792 204550 www.kidscenemagazine.co.uk | 22
Easter Rocky
Road
Here’s a lovely yet simple treat to make with the kids this Easter. Made for sharing with everyone! Ingredients 200g Milk chocolate 300g Dark chocolate 100g Mini marshmallows 100g Digestive biscuits 50g Butter 1 Tablespoon golden syrup Glace cherries halved or quartered (optional) Large handful of Mini chocolate eggs Handful chocolate chips What to do... • Make sure you have clean hands and a clean work surface • Break the chocolate into a large heat proof mixing bowl and add the butter and golden syrup. • Heat this gently over a pan of hot water, keeping the heat low and making sure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water. Stir gently to ensure it is mixed. Leave to cool a little. • Put the digestive biscuits into a sandwich bag and seal. Bash them gently with your hand to break them into small pieces, but not into crumbs. • When the chocolate has cooled slightly, add the biscuits, marshmallows (leaving a few for decoration) and cherries and stir. • Line a small baking tin with baking paper and turn the mixture into the tin. Press down gently to even the mixture out in the tin. • Take half the mini eggs and put into another sandwich bag. Again bash them, maybe using a rolling pin this time, into halves or large chunks. Arrange the whole eggs on top of the rocky road and sprinkle the broken ones over evenly. Sprinkle the choc chips also and remaining marshmallows. You could also use a broken up hoc flake. Leave to set. When set slice into generous pieces. Enjoy!
Sarah Thomas Homebird Bakery
Wholesome comfort cakes and savouries for special days and every day. Find Homebird Bakery at Sketty, Pennard & Penclawdd local produce markets
homebirdbakery@gmail.com www.homebirdbakery.co.uk
or a traumatic birth. Unplanned pregnancy or, paradoxically, trying for a long time before becoming pregnant. Recent major life event.
Postnatal depression
F
or this edition I’ve chosen a topic which affects 1 in 10 mothers following the birth of their baby, starting weeks to months after delivery. It is a treatable condition, and mothers can make a full recovery with the support of Healthcare Professionals, friends and family, often with antidepressants and sometimes psychological input. An important point to emphasize is that the terms PND & ‘baby blues’ are not interchangeable. Baby blues are very common and almost considered ‘normal’. Symptoms include being weepy, irritability, anxiety and feeling low. Baby blues usually start around the 3rd day, but usually go by the 10th day after childbirth. They do not usually need any medical treatment. PND symptoms last for much longer than with baby blues & treatment is advised. Symptoms are usually there on most days, for two weeks or more.They include one of more of the following: Low mood, classically diurnal, meaning it’s worse in the morning and better by the evening. Lack of enjoyment/ pleasure in anything or lack of interest in yourself & the baby. Feeling constantly exhausted (although an unreliable symptom as most new mums find a newborn tiring) Lack of motivation to do anything. Irritability. Feeling tearful. Feeling guilty, feelings of low self-worth, loss of confidence, feeling ‘not good enough’. Poor concentration: difficulty following a conversation or something on TV, forgetting things. Feelings of despair or hopelessness. Lack of appetite. In serious cases, a mother may have suicidal thoughts or thoughts about harming/killing her baby. If you suffer from these, or you know a new mum experiencing these, please seek help immediately. The exact cause of PND is unknown but there are several risk factors for developing PND. A previous history of mental illness inc depression or PND, bipolar disorder & schizophrenia. Being socially isolated with no family or friends around you. Relationship difficulties or financial worries. Physical health problems during the pregnancy
Midwives & Health Visitors screen for PND in women who have recently given birth. Sometimes it is a partner/family member or friend who suspects the new mother has PND. In any event, you will need to see your GP to have the diagnosis confirmed. There isn’t a ‘one-size-fits-all’ treatment for PND. Treatment is tailored individually, based on a discussion with the mother about what is best for her & baby. Options depend on: severity/ symptoms of depression, the impact of symptoms on her ability to care for her baby, previous history of depression & what treatment worked, current social situation, patient preference. Antidepressants are often prescribed for moderate/severe PND. Mothers are roughly twice as likely to improve with antidepressants compared to taking no tablets. However, the tablets do not work straightaway; it takes 2-4 weeks before their effect builds up fully. Follow the course that you doctor recommendsthis may be 6mths. Antidepressants are not thought to be addictive. Some antidepressants come out in breast milk, but the amounts are very small and are unlikely to cause any harm to the baby. There are a few antidepressants which are known to have a good safety record with breast-feeding mothers-doctors choose these if you develop PND & are breast-feeding. Another treatment option is to be referred to a psychologist or other professional for a psychological treatment. There are various types, but their availability on the NHS varies depending on where you live in the UK. An important point to emphasize is that psychological treatments are usually not practical for women with PND, due to the time commitments required. Furthermore, they generally aren’t suitable in severe depression, because you need some motivation to do these treatments, which is lacking in severe depression. If your depression is severe, or is not improving with treatment, your doctor may refer you to a specialist mental health team for specialist medication. Occasionally, admission to hospital may be needed. Ideally this would be to a mother and baby unit so that your baby can stay with you. On a final note, if you are a relative or friend of a mother who appears to be depressed, then do alert a doctor or health visitor. If you are a new mother who thinks she may have PND, be truthful about how you feel. You do not have to feel like this. It is not a sign of weakness to admit that you are depressed/struggling. www.kidscenemagazine.co.uk | 24
The Children’s Room
The only Montessori nursery in Swansea & Mumbles Welcoming children from the age of three months to five years, The Children’s Room has established itself as the premier nursery for discerning parents searching for a high quality, nurturing and educational environment. We offer a professional school collection service, with term time contracts and sessions available during the school holidays, ideal for working parents.
We would love to show you around our unique setting Please call 01792 535919 to arrange a viewing 13 St James Gardens, Uplands, Swansea SA1 6DY Enquiries: 01792 535919 / 07800 511191 E-mail: liz@the-childrens-room.co.uk www.the-childrens-room.co.uk
January 8th 2016 was the first day of the Chinese New Year. This year it is the turn of the fire monkey!
D
uring our celebrations at nursery, I found myself thinking about how fortunate we are to live in a city so rich in cultural diversity and within that the important role of parents, carers and educators in introducing pre-school children to celebrations and traditions from around the world. These days, so much of our adult life is dependent on the ability to understand, appreciate and work well with others. At home, incorporating knowledge and understanding of other cultures early on, can help to promote these vital skills while enhancing and creating a more fulfilling family life. Children as young as three have a natural interest in the people and the world around them, they love learning about how children in other cultures and countries live. Maria Montessori (1870-1952) a truly passionate advocate for peace in the world, believed it was important to study the similarities and differences of people around the globe in order to teach acceptance and respect for other cultures. Developing this understanding helps to instil in children a greater sense of connection and belonging. As parents and educators it is our responsibility to nurture and develop the child’s curiosity, be open, encourage them to ask questions about different races, religions and cultures. Let them know that it’s ok to notice differences, after all, appreciating that we are different but equal is an important lesson. Celebrating world festivals is a fun and relaxed way to explore different cultures with young children. Storytelling, listening to music and experiencing the culinary delights of another country are a great introduction. Though Chinese New Year has passed there are many more colourful and exciting celebrations
on the calendar for this year, with Eid in July, the Eisteddfod in August and Diwali in October, to mention just a few, there is lot’s to look forward to in 2016! There are also organised cultural events in Swansea which welcome all and are a wonderful way to meet new people and celebrate together. When talking to children about other cultures, if there is something you aren’t sure about, the internet has an abundance of information as well as great ideas for ways to celebrate, you will also find dates for events online or in local publications. As they move into primary school education, your child will continue to learn about world faiths, traditions and festivals. Swansea schools are beautiful, multicultural environments, the foundation you have laid in the early years will ensure your child goes into class with very clear ideas about equality and diversity.
Sharon Jones
Written by Manager at The Children’s Room
Come out of your shell and learn to swim the Turtle Tots way Turtle Tots South West Wales Email: rhiannon.carpenter@turtletots.com Tel: 07757 250 791 www.turtletots.com
www.kidscenemagazine.co.uk | 26
Easter EggS perImen t! What you’ll need RAW EGGS WHITE VINEGAR WIDE MOUTH JARS OR CONTAINERS FOOD COLOURING
MAD SCIENCE
BIRTHDAY PARTIES
Bishopston Morriston Sketty Bridgend
Tel: 0845 603 7220 / 02920 462540 Helen O’Grady Drama Academy Now Enrolling for Their Summer Shows and for the Summer Term. Principal of the Academy, Becky Goodfield said “This is our most exciting term!!! All of our students will be working on a scripted production which they will then perform for their friends and family at the Dylan Thomas Theatre. It is a great way for children to build their confidence and perform on stage in a fun and relaxed environment, without any pressure or audition. Every child at our Academy is a star and will be given their moment to shine!” The Helen O’Grady Drama Academy follows a structured development programme which helps students to improve their speech and language skills and boost their confidence. For 35 years the Helen O’Grady programme has been used worldwide to provide children with the preparation they need for growing up in today’s competitive world. Classes offer a friendly, stimulating and fun packed environment in which the children can develop into confident and articulate adults!
For further information, please contact: Tel: 0845 603 7220 / 029 2046 2540 www.helenogrady.co.uk Email: swales@helenogrady.co.uk
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Easter, Hope and Homelessness
S
ince the beginning of the year, I have been coordinating a project called Swansea Night Shelter (SNS). SNS is a simple idea but takes a lot of amazing, selfless volunteers to make it happen. Basically SNS offers dinner, bed and breakfast to rough sleepers who have nowhere else to go during the coldest winter months. It is based in a different Church venue each night. We have been running for 5 years now and have seen a couple of hundred rough sleepers stay with us and eventually many have moved on into permanent accommodation.
The project has brought me in contact with men and women whose lives appear, to them, hopeless, not only have they lost hope but also society has lost hope in them. It is devastating to see. Of course, some are living with the consequence of poor choices but for many life has simply been incredibly tough and they haven’t had the support network of friends and family, which so many of us have, to help them when they’ve reached the end of themselves. To see a person living without hope is one of life’s great tragedies because what you see is someone who simply exists, someone who has no enthusiasm, no joy, just an empty acceptance of “this is what it is”. SNS in a very small way helps some of these men and women discover hope again. It helps restore their dignity, helps them feel better about themselves, and treats them as every human being deserves to be treated with respect and value. For a short while we see them begin to flourish and maybe for the first time ever, they know that there are people who care, who want to help, people who want to help them discover hope again. I wrote a Christmas article for Kidscene a couple of years ago and I mentioned then that hope is one of my favourite things. It still is. I love hope, I can’t live without it. Hope means the happy anticipation of good things. Isn’t that just lovely and one of the goals of SNS is to help men and women who have lost hope to begin to anticipate again good things. As you read this month’s Kidscene, Easter will be on our doorstep. I adore this time of year, I love that Easter takes place when everything around us is emerging from the depths of a dark and cold
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winter. Spring is arriving, flowers are budding, trees are blossoming, lambs are gamboling. It’s the season when hope is in the air. For me as a mum I always prefer Easter to Christmas, we get 2 bank holidays with a weekend in the middle which is just fab; we only have to worry about a few Easter eggs; we may have to worry whether we cook the lamb joint properly and is cousin Matilda, vegetarian, vegan or something else this year but, compared to Christmas, for us parents Easter is a lot less stressful. Also for me, as a Christian, Easter is a very poignant time. It is the time when we remember a death that changed history and a miracle of a resurrection. It’s also the time of year, that those of you who aren’t Christians, can thank us Christians for having 2 bank holidays so close together – you’re welcome :) At Christmas we celebrated when hope in the form of a baby, the Lord Jesus entered the world. At Easter we celebrate all that His life represents and all that His death and resurrection means. Jesus came to this world to not only show us what God was really like – full of love, mercy, kindness and justice – but He came so that our relationship with God could be restored. Have you ever wondered where the custom of giving eggs at Easter came from? An egg symbolises new life so at Easter we give Easter eggs to each other to remember that Jesus, after dying on the cross, rose from the dead. This amazing miracle showed that life could win over death. The egg, when it’s cracked open, represents His empty tomb. Like this time of year, Jesus wants us to bloom and blossom. He wants our lives to be full of hope and so He took upon Himself all the coldness of death and all our wrong-doing, so that we could live lives as He intended: free, loving and hope-full. This Easter as you and your children tuck into your gorgeous, chocolaty eggs (I’m sitting here drooling – not the best time of year to be on a sugar free diet!!!), perhaps take a moment to remember what that egg represents and pause to reflect on the importance of hope. Maybe this Easter you will get an opportunity to bring hope into someone else’s life, if you do, thank you – you will be giving them a precious gift. I hope you have a Happy HopeFilled Easter. Joio!
Mandy Harvey
TIME TO ENTER A NEW WORLD Age 4–18 Fun, confidence-building, educational, classes in acting, singing and dance. Find out more and start your child’s journey today stagecoach.co.uk/swansea 01792 204848 facebook.com/ Stagecoachswansea
Swansea
Play Works NPT: FREE Play Equipment Loan Service & FREE Play Training!
Check out what’s available to loan FREE from the Play Takeaway on our website: www.playworksnpt.co.uk To register & place an order contact us on: Tel: 01639 873004 @: playworks@npt.gov.uk
FREE Play Training We offer a variety of FREE training courses and workshops for a wide range of target audiences, including childcare providers, youth workers and parents. Easter Workshop - 3rd March 2016 5.30-7.30pm, Resolven Building Blocks. See www.playworknpt.co.uk for details and other up and coming training. Playworks..!
Playworks_npt
@: playworks@npt.gov.uk
www.playworksnpt.co.uk
Healthy Eating for Children
By Varsha Nagaraj Paediatric Dietitian
A
s the saying goes, ‘You are what you eat’, the same applies to our children, the food that they eat influences their general health and well being. Having a healthy diet is paramount through all stages of life particularly during infancy, childhood and adolescence for growth and development, and to maintain general health. Good nutrition habits established during this stage sets up a good foundation for adolescence and later in adulthood. As children reach school age, they will be growing quickly and becoming more active. To meet the extra demands of growth, children have higher energy and nutrient requirements for their body size compared to adults. As a parent or carer, it is vital that you encourage them to eat a healthy, varied diet to help ensure they obtain all the necessary nutrients they need for good health.
like iron, B-vitamins and folic acid. • Base your meals around foods from this group. • Eat wholegrain or wholemeal breads, pastas and cereals as well as white choices. • Choose low fat oven chips rather than fried chips (oven chips fall into this food group but fried chips don’t). • Avoid frying or adding too much fat to these foods. • Potatoes, yams, and sweet potato fall into this group, rather than fruit and vegetables, because they too contain starchy carbohydrates. It is recommended for us to have about 5-9 portions per day as adults this depends mainly on activity levels, about 2 portions with each meal, children’s portions will generally be smaller and may have approximately 5-6 portions a day, a portion is the following:
Children’s diets from the age of five should be based on the principles of the UK’s eatwell plate (as shown below). The main messages are to include a variety of foods from the four food groups, plenty of starchy carbohydrates, fruit and vegetables, some protein and milk and dairy foods.
3 tbs breakfast cereal, 1 Weetabix or Shredded Wheat 1 slice bread/toast 1 small pitta bread/chapatti 3 crackers 1 egg sized potato/1 spoon mashed potato/1/2 a jacket potato 2 tbs rice or pasta, noodles (uncooked)
Bread, rice, potatoes, pasta and other starchy foods
Fruit and vegetables
They provide us with energy in the form of starchy carbohydrates. They also provide B-vitamins and fibre, many breakfast cereals are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals
Eating at least five portions of fruit and vegetables every day is recommended for health as they are rich in vitamins, minerals, low in fat and calories and high in fibre. This is why it is important to eat a variety of fruit and
vegetables-a good saying to remember is ‘eat a rainbow of colours!’ • Choose fruit or chopped vegetables as a snack. • Add dried or fresh fruit to breakfast cereals. • Have a salad with sandwiches or with pizza. • Add vegetables to casseroles, soups and stews and fruit to desserts. • Tinned ( in natural juice), frozen, and dried fruit and vegetables are just as good as fresh! What is a portion of fruit and vegetables? About 80 g counts as a portion of fruit and vegetables. Examples include: 3 tbs cooked vegetables Cereal bowl of salad Piece of fresh fruit, eg, one apple/pear/banana/orange/ nectarine Half a grapefruit/one slice of melon/one large slice of pineapple, 2 slices of mango A handful of grapes/berries, 2 small fruit eg satsumas, plums, 1 tbs dried fruit ( approximately 30 g) 150ml fruit juice
Meat, fish, eggs, beans and other non-dairy sources of protein These foods provide protein for growth and development and minerals such as iron, zinc and magnesium and also B vitamins. Other sources of non dairy protein include nuts, tofu, mycoprotein (eg. Quorn), soya, lentils and pulses such as kidney beans, chickpeas and canned
baked beans, and pulses such as lentils. • Choose lower fat meat products. • Choose lean cuts of meat. • Remove visible fat including skin from meat and poultry and drain away fat after cooking. • Try to grill, poach, steam, bake or microwave meat and fish rather than frying. • Eat oily fish once a week. We need to have 2-3 portions from this group in our diets every day. A portion is usually about 50-75g ( also illustrated as a pack of cards or the size of a fist). Examples include: 2-3oz/50-70g beef, pork, ham, lamb, liver, kidney 2-3oz/50g-70g chicken or oily fish (cooked weight) 4-5oz/100-150g white fish (not fried in batter) 2 eggs (up to 6 per week) 3 tbs baked beans 3 tbs pulses/lentils (cooked)
Milk and Dairy Foods These foods provide calcium, phosphorous, magnesium and
are very important in the diet for healthy bones and teeth. They are also a good source of protein for vegetarians. • Choose lower fat milk, i.e. semi-skimmed, skimmed milk. • Choose low fat yogurts and reduced fat cheeses. We need to include 3 portions of milk and dairy foods in our diet every day. Examples include: 200ml (1/3rd pint) of milk A pot of yoghurt 120g/2 pots of fromage frais- 50 g each 1oz/30g cheese (a small matchbox size). A pot of custard/rice pudding Foods and drinks high in fat and/or sugar • Eat small quantities of these foods. • Choose low fat or reduced sugar foods where possible. • Use spreads and oils sparingly – opt for vegetable fats and oils.
• Try to limit consumption of sugarcontaining foods and drinks between meals, especially for children. • Try not to add fat to foods when cooking. It’s important to remember that healthy eating is about eating all foods in moderation, so we can have a treat once in a while!:)
Fluids It is important to drink enough to remain well hydrated. The body needs about 1.5 litres (6 – 8 glasses) of fluid per day (all drinks count except for alcohol) and additional fluid during warm weather and exercise. For children, the recommendation is about 6-8 cups of 150-200ml ( 5-9 ounces)of fluid and the recommended drinks are either water/milk through the day and well diluted juice/squash only at mealtimes.
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FOREVER ALOE VERA GEL – A pure stabilised aloe vera gel (which is as close to the natural plant juice as possible), containing over 200 different compounds. This rich source of nutrients provides the perfect supplement to a balanced diet. A drink to promote a healthy lifestyle and wellbeing.
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How to make an Easter Chick!
you will need: • • • • • • • •
I polystyrene egg I sheet of orange funky foam or felt Two googly eyes One yellow pipe cleaner Small ribbon bow Yellow paint Glue
1. Paint the egg yellow, either all over or leave an oval white Cut small triangle for a beak and glue on the front. Stick on googly eyes at the front. 2. Cut pipe cleaner in two and fold into a “W” 3. Squeeze together and poke the two ends into the side of the egg. 4. Cut a the foam/felt into a heart and glue to the bottom of the egg. Tie a small bow and attach to the top of the egg with the pin.
hin g you Kits containing everyt m nee d are available fro Ginty’s in Mumbles!
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At the heart of the School of Social Justice and Inclusion is the ethos of equality, social justice and inclusion. BA Education Studies
Counselling
Studies are based around the ‘four pillars’ of Education Studies which are History, Psychology, Sociology and Philosophy. These are incorporated throughout your studies and combined with other relevant educational topics, such as inclusion and creativity, to provide you with a wide knowledge base as well as focusing on developing a range of other academic and transferable skills.
BA Counselling Skill & Interdisciplinary Studies BA Counselling Studies & Psychology Higher Education Certificate in Counselling Skill
For anyone who is unsure about which career path is right for them, the chance to gain experience in a related area is vital and therefore we work to provide as many opportunities as possible for you to gain that practical experience throughout your studies.
Counselling graduates are valued by a range of employers due to its interdisciplinary nature, strong communication, numeracy, teamwork, critical and reflective thinking, and IT skills. Counselling theory and practise informs our understanding of human nature and many aspects of modern society.
91%
of UWTSD students studying at the School of Social Justioce & Inclusion were satisfied with ‘Learning Support’ Global International Student Barometer and Student Barometer, Autumn Wave 2015.
For more information please contact: dafydd.evans@uwtsd.ac.uk Faculty of Education & Communities @FEC_UWTSD
www.uwtsd.ac.uk
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BA PART-TIME DEGREE PROGRAMME
in Humanities, History or English COMMENCING OCTOBER 2016
PREPARE FOR HIGHER EDUCATION PROGRAMME COMMENCING APRIL 2016 p your Develo e owledg skills, kn dence fi and con
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For further information contact: adult.education@swansea.ac.uk • 01792 602211 • www.swansea.ac.uk/dace DACE - Swansea University @DACE_SwanseaUni
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Am ragor o wybodaeth cysylltwch â: adult.education@abertawe.ac.uk • 01792 602211 • www.swansea.ac.uk/dace DACE - Swansea University @DACE_SwanseaUni
Get Set for Study… Get Ready for a Degree…
with the Prepare for Higher Education Programme!
T
he Prepare for Higher Education Programme is an 11 week part-time course starting in April 2016 at community venues in Carmarthenshire, Swansea and Neath Port Talbot as well as at Swansea University’s Singleton campus and the South Wales Miners’ Library. The programme, which is delivered by the Department of Adult Continuing Education (DACE) at Swansea University, provides a supportive environment for adults to begin their studies in preparation for Higher Education level study. Students can study during the day and/or evening and choose 2 subjects from History, English Literature, Psychology, Sociology, Philosophy, Creative Writing and many more. Extensive study skills support as well as advice and guidance is available to all students. The programme is FREE to eligible students. After successfully completing this programme, many students progress to the part-time BA (Honours) Humanities Degree which starts in October 2016. Why not come along to a Taster Event or Open Day during February and March to find out more? Visit www.swansea.ac.uk/dace for more information.
Jenna
- I saw an advertisement for a Child Psychology course at a community venue where my daughter was attending the Flying Start Programme. It was a subject I had always been interested in so I phoned up and joined the class. I also enrolled on a Criminal Psychology class along with Lisa and Sarah. I thoroughly enjoyed the Prepare for Higher Education Programme and I was really happy when I learned I could progress to the Part-Time Humanities Degree later on in the year.
Lisa
- I never thought I’d be studying for a degree but after completing the Prepare for Higher Education Programme, I wanted to learn more and the course gave me the confidence to make an application. I’m a single parent of four children and the courses are flexible and part-time which means I can look after my family and still have time to study and work on my assignments. The Part-Time Degree is very different to my school experience this time I’m studying because I want to!
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| www.kidscenemagazine.co.uk
Sarah
– After successfully completing the Prepare for Higher Education Programme, I enrolled on the Part-time Humanities Degree. Everyone is really encouraging and gave me the push I needed. My confidence has improved greatly and I am now a class representative. The timings and locations of the courses are really convenient. One course is during the day which is ideal for me as it is when my children are in school and the other is during the evening and is easy to travel to. Since enrolling on the Part-Time Degree, it feels like I am doing something for myself – ‘this is my time, for me!’ For more information on the Prepare for Higher Education Programme, please contact Rachel Brimble r.e.brimble@swansea.ac.uk, 01792 602534. DACE offers a wide range of courses starting throughout the year. For more information telephone 01792 602211 or visit www.swansea.ac.uk/dace
Open daily/Ar agor bob dydd 11am - 5pm Sat 26 Mar - 30 Sept/Dydd Sad 26 Maw - 30 Medi
Sat 26 March Easter Crafty Fun for Children Sat 2 April Dungeons and Dragons Day Sat 9 April Crafty Fun for Children Sat 30 April Mediaeval Living History Day
Sad 26 Mawrth Hwyl Crefftau’r Pasg i Blant Sad 2 Ebrill Diwrnod Dreigiau a Daeargelloedd Sad 9 Ebrill Hwyl gyda Chrefftau i Blant Sad 30 Ebrill Diwrnod Hanes Byw Canoloesol
Keep an eye on the website for more events throughout the year!
Cadwch lygad ar y wefan am fwy o ddigwyddiadau drwy gydol y flwyddyn!
www.swansea.gov.uk/oystermouthcastle www.abertawe.gov.uk/castellystumllwynarth
WHAT’S ON IN THE CINEMA
Kung Fu Panda 3 Release Date: Friday 11th March
To find out more about What’s On at the Gwyn Hall, scan this QR code on your smart phone.
BOX OFFICE:
The Huntsman: Winter’s War Release Date: Friday 8th April
0300 365 6677
The Gwyn Hall
www.gwynhall.com
@GwynHall
BOOK ONLINE:
Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice Release Date: Friday 25th March
The Jungle Book Release Date: Friday 15th April
Zootopia Release Date: Friday 25th March
Captain America: Civil War Release Date: Friday 29th April
Gwyn Hall, Orchard Street, Neath SA11 1DU
Competitions WIN A FAMILY TICKET!
Win a family ticket for Bear Behaving Badly on 1st April at Swansea Grand Theatre! WIN A FAMILY TICKET!
WIN A FAMILY PASS! Family Waterpark pass for 4 2 adults 2 children, 1 adult 3 children etc. Normal pool ratios apply.
Worth up to
6.00
T’c and C’s: Prize will admit a maximum of 4 people into Folly Farm only. Tickets must be handed over to staff to gain entry – lost, forgotten or expired tickets cannot be accepted and entry will be refused. Tickets cannot be exchanged or used in conjunction with any other offer. Funfair and rides at a reasonable extra charge and are not included as part of the prize.
FREE WALLABY FOOD ANNA’S WELSH ZOO
FOR EACH CHILD IN YOUR GROUP
Anna Ryder Richardson’s wild Welsh zoo has something for everyone! Amazing and unique animal walkthroughs, spacious natural enclosures, freedom for kids to explore and play, great coffee and fantastic home-made food. Let the kids go wild while you relax in our beautiful surroundings! NOW OPEN ALL YEAR! Manor House, St Florence, Tenby SA70 8RJ. Tel: 01646 651201 Web: www.annaswelshzoo.co.uk Terms & Conditions: One free packet of wallaby food for each child in your group. Maximum 6 Kidscene. packets. Photocopies not accepted. Valid Valid until untilDecember December 31, 31, 2016. 2014. Voucher code code Local World14.
£4.50 entry with FREE lunch
£4.50 entry with a pasta meal for every Kidscene reader.
10% OFF 10% off general admission at Plantasia expires 30th April 2016.
50p OFF ENTRY
Crazytown 50p off entry price with this voucher. Brand New Crazytown, 103 High Street, Gorseinon A unique new role play experience for children!
FREE
SESSION
a ‘free pre-school gymnastic taster session’ Head over Heels gymnastics comes to the LC with a brand new exciting pre-school gymnastic class aimed at children from as young as 7months to 4years old. Just call 01792 466500 to book your FREE taster session.
*Children MUST be accompanied by an adult. Messy Church is great fun for the WHOLE family! Following Messy
Church at Waterfront will be on Sunday April 10th at 4pm.
Don’t forget to LIKE our FB Page
The Speech Clinic
Independent Speech and Language Therapy for children and adults across South Wales Clinics in Swansea and Cardiff Home and school visits Assessment, diagnosis, therapy and reports Speech sounds pronunciation Language delay Stammering Autistic spectrum disorder Learning difficulties Stroke rehabilitation
The Speech Clinic 56 Walter Road, Swansea SA1 5PY T: 01792 206 784 | M: 07934 432 116 E: reception@thespeechclinic.co.uk www.thespeechclinic.co.uk
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Contact Issues
Family• issues Paternitythat Issues require• legal advice? Adoption Issues •
Do you have Parental Re
•
Is your partner looking t
abroad or out of locality? •
Special Guardianship Ap
•
Domestic Violence Issue
Are you a Parent? Grandparent? Step-parent or Guardian? Relative or Friend? Child?
FREE 30 m consultation call 01792 45
arrange your We deal withTo a full range of issues: Care proceedings
Paternity issues
Social services involvement
Parental Responsibility Agreements or Orders
Child Arrangement SWANSEA 2nd Floor,(formerly Langdon known House Orders Langdon Road and Contact as Residence Swansea SA1 8QY Orders) Tel: 01792 450010 Fax: 01792 461881
Special Guardianship MUMBLES 87 Newton Road applications Mumbles
Changing your child’s Swansea SA3 4BN Tel: 01792 369303 name Fax: 01792 447887
Child Abduction
Specific Issue and Prohibited Steps Order (to control actions of MORRISTON PONTA those with Parental 109 Clase Road 21 Holl responsibility) Morriston Pontard
Swansea SA6 8DY Grandparent Tel: 01792 310731rights Fax: 01792 310871
Call us today to arrange your free 30-minute consultation on 01792 310731
We deal with a full range of issues:
Swanse Tel: 017 Fax: 01
Email: info@plandp.co.uk
SWANSEA 2nd Floor, Langdon House Langdon Road Swansea SA1 8QY Tel: 01792 450010 Fax: 01792 461881
MORRISTON 109 Clase Road Morriston Swansea SA6 8DY Tel: 01792 310731 Fax: 01792 310871
Care proceedings
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MUMBLES 87 Newton Road Mumbles Swansea SA3 4BN Tel: 01792 369303 Fax: 01792 447887
Email: info@plandp.co.uk
PONTARDAWE 21 Holly Street Pontardawe Swansea SA8 4ET Tel: 01792 863633 Fax: 01792 863693
YSTRADGYNLAIS 41 Heol Eglwys Ystradgynlais Swansea SA9 1EY Tel: 01639 842709
WWW.PETERLYNNANDPARTNERS.CO.UK
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MARK JERMIN