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SPRING 2013 All the local information parents really need!
FR
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For Chester & District children and their parents
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KIDS DIRECT
SPRING 2013
Contents Great Days Out
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Fun for Kids
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Drama, Dance & Music
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Let’s Party
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Sport for Kids
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Services for Parents
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Education & Childcare
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Welcome to the Spring edition of Kids Direct. Easter is nearly here and we are bursting with attractions, days out, places to go and loads of things to see and do. We will help you to make the most of all the great things going on in Chester and the surrounding areas. Why not try our competition and win an FREE week at A Star Sports or colour in our Easter bunny to win a lovely Kids Direct bunny. Remember there is family fun to be had all year round! Check out our brand new website www.kidsdirect.org Follow us on Facebook and Twitter, you be entered into our draw to win a lovely Kids Direct Teddy Bear whilst keeping up to date with the latest information on great things to do with the kids Happy Easter
Megan & Tomos
All About Kids Direct Kids Direct Ltd is owned and published by Megan Kneale, PO Box 314, Duddon, Tarporley, CW6 0WJ Reg. Trademark no 1468409. Printed by Delmar Press Tel 01270 624122 All enquiries about content and advertising to Megan Kneale 01829 781700 Sales Tomos Kneale. Kids Direct is published three times a year and distributed to 12,000 families with children under 12. Kids Direct publishes in Chester, Wirral, Wrexham, Mold & District, Cheltenham, Kent & Sussex, Warrington, Liverpool We believe all information to be correct but do not endorse any products or services. Reproduction in whole or part of any of the text, illustrations or photography without the express permission of the publisher is strictly forbidden. Front Cover Designed By Brian Fitzgerald If you have difficulty contacting anyone featured in this edition of Kids Direct call us on 01829 781700 or E-Mail us at info@kidsdirect.org NEXT EDITION DUE June 2013 www.kidsdirect.org
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GREAT DAYS OUT
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KIDS DIRECT Church Farm is a fantastic day out for all the family. There are lots of friendly animals to meet, a fun play area with go-karts, maze and swings and a farm walk with beautiful views over the River Dee and North Wales. At weekends and holidays, join in with tractor rides, pata-pet and animal feeding, plus the new barrel train! The Easter Egg Hunt is on from 29 March – 1 April.
SPRING 2013 Then meet the friendly Easter Bunny who’ll reward the kids with chocolate! Tickets must be pre-booked on 0151 648 7838 or www.churchfarm.org.uk. Book a children’s party or a school visit; you’ll meet all the animals and help harvest the organic fruit and vegetables. You can even take some produce home with you. The farm shop stocks a variety of home-grown, locally-produced and luxury food and the cosy Munch coffee shop is a lovely place to sit with a posh coffee, cake or light lunch.
Ride on the tractor up to the Church Farm forest, where all the family must work together to play hook-a-duck, basketball dunk and lots more Church Farm is open Wed-Sun 10am-5pm, games of skill to find the eggs www.churchfarm.org.uk and solve the Easter puzzle.
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SPRING 2013 The National Waterways Museum has got a great event this Easter - their ever popular Easter Boat Gathering and Sea Shanty Festival is set to be as colourful and fun as ever and is a great day out. The Easter event takes place from 2931st March and sees a gathering of canal boats and sea shanty musicians across the museum. It's a colourful weekend of traditional canal crafts, music, boats, demonstrations, children's activities and more - look out for full details on their website. Prices: Adult £6.50, conc £5.50, child (5-16) £4.50, under 5s and Annual Pass holders free For information www.nwm.org.uk or 0151 373 4373
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Tracs (Uk) is based in Delamere Forest and offers people of all ages and ability the opportunity to enjoy the experience of cycling in the great outdoors. Why not hire a mountain bike and let their team of experienced, qualified coaches help you improve your confidence and ability in a beautiful, safe and traffic-free environment. Children’s Birthday Parties can be catered for, as well as guided rides, female-only rides and guided walks through the forest.
GREAT DAYS OUT
All coaches and guides are qualified in first aid and are insured through The Association of British Cycling Coaches. All instructors and leaders are CRB checked. Helmets are required to be worn on all rides. Road awareness training is offered to schools, colleges and youth groups - either at Delamere or at your own premises. CYCLE SERVICING & REPAIRS AVAILABLEBIKE SHOP NOW OPEN
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KIDS DIRECT Discover the delights of Park Hall Countryside Experience, the national award winning farm attraction. There’s a day packed with animal antics, action, fun and adventure waiting for all the family. Get up close to your farmyard favourites with a regular schedule of interactive events. Bottle feed lambs (in season), groom ponies, or lead the heavy horses. Try your hand at milking a real cow and watch the parlour milking or simply cuddle gorgeous bunnies. There’s so much to try. This all weather attraction has two massive indoor play barns. You will find the new ‘Demon Drop Slide’ in the Main Arena along
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SPRING 2013 with two bouncy castles and a big pedal tractor circuit. Have even more fun in the Warren Play barn. Outside you can try out the adventure courses, climbing areas and play houses. Take a woodland walk or meander down to the lake, there are picnic areas both indoors and out. The interactive Science Illusion Zone, is a fascinating diversion guaranteed to entertain all ages. The optical illusions are really cool. Climb inside the giant kaleidoscope- you’ll be amazed! We think Pig Racing will be the absolute highlight of your day. With two races each day you can watch and cheer as Park Hall’s well trained Kune
Kune pigs trot towards the finishing post for that ultimate prize – a trough of tasty pig nuts! See if you can pick the winner. The fun goes on with brilliant driving experiences for the kids. The junior driving school and the 4x4 land-rovers are amazing and the barrel train ride to the woodland is a must! Jump on the tractor ride to see a bit more of the farm. And when you are ready for a more sedate pace, visit the Victorian School, the Welsh Guards Museum, and the Iron Age Roundhouse. These fascinating heritage exhibits are well interpreted, so lots to learn too.
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FUN FOR KIDS
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KIDS DIRECT By day Funky Town is an amazing Indoor Adventure Play Centre for younger children, by night it transforms into Laser Storm, an exciting team game of 'hide and seek' within a darkened, pulsating and misty 3level play arena. Whatever the age of your child this indoor activity arena will certainly keep them entertained and highly energized. Funky Town Play If you are looking for a place where your child can run and play (and exercise without even realising) whilst you relax with other parents and enjoy a coffee in the knowledge that your child
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SPRING 2013 is completely safe and happy then Funky Town is the place for you!! The centre incorporates a huge play structure with three decks of fun, a separate play area for toddlers and a baby gym area. Their plush leather sofas and fully stocked cafÊ provides a comfortable atmosphere for the parents. What!s more they also offer free wi – fi access. Laser Storm Laser Storm is held in the evenings for children aged 7+. Take part in the game using a combination of stealth, accuracy and intellect in order to zap the opposing
team and win the game! You can fight it out individually or in teams using hi-tech interactive laser guns. Individual results sheets show rankings, scores, shots, who you hit and who hit you!! Please visit their websites www.funkytownplay.co.uk www.laserstormchester.c o.uk or call 01244 377229 for details (Laser must be prebooked).
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FUN FOR KIDS
Fun Spanish For Children is a brand new club suitable for all children aged 4 years and upwards. Small groups allow personal attention, a fun activity book and CD are provided and children receive certificates on completion of each programme. All classes are with a native Spanish teacher. Private tuition is also available (primary, high school, GCSE). For more information call 07951 471756. www.funspanishforchildren.co.uk
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childhood obesity levels, more time spent with video games and a growing disconnection with nature. And yet research has shown that a staggering 91% of children say that spending time in the outdoors with their parents would make them happy.
Studies show that camping doesn't just have its benefits for adults. 87% of kids who camp say camping in the countryside makes them feel really happy. Interestingly, 73% of adults say camping is something every child should experience and 59% of campers say it should be on the national curriculum! A recent study conducted by Natural England found that children spend 60% less time out and about than their parents did at the same age.... and even less time in the outdoors.. There is much evidence to link this to growing
There are a number of studies that have looked at the impact of outdoor experiences and particularly camping on children and there is much evidence to show not only that it can improve a child's behaviour but it can also make them more attentive and interested in the world around them.... as well as encouraging greater levels of physical activity. For those campers with children, one of the most important messages for them was being able to teach their kids new skills. Teaching children how to improvise, play and 'make-do' was an important part of developing their children's perspective on life. It showed them that they don't need all the creature comforts of home in order to have fun!
Campers agree that immersing kids within nature makes them richer !88% say it's something that every child should experience !84% say its good for a child"s health !66% say it's important for a child's development !59% say it should be on the curriculum !45% say it improves a child's behaviour
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MEET THE RICH KIDS
Kids who have camped were significantly more likely to have done the following:-
!Flown a kite !Climbed a tree !Made a den outside !Explored a pond with a net !Cooked on a campfire For those kids who hadn't camped, the thought that there'd be too many creepy crawlies was more off-putting than missing their TV and computer games. A third thought they'd get too messy and dirty! 79% of kids who have never camped said they would like to!
Top 5 1 2 3 4 5
things kids say they love about camping
I get to explore new places I can get muddy and dirty and don't get into trouble I learn new things about nature I get to do new and fun things I get to do new things with my family that I don't do at home
Kids who haven't camped were asked why they would like to go camping and the same top three answers as above, were top of their list!! This tells us whether kids camp or not, they love the idea of spending time with their family exploring the outdoors and doing new and fun things. www.kidsdirect.org
Thanks to the Camping and Caravan Club for supplying the information for this article For information on joining please call 0845 130 7632 http://www.campingand caravanningclub.co.uk 13
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For details of classes see page 41
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KIDS DIRECT
COLOUR ME
WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN Colour in our lovely bunny To win this beautiful Kids Direct bunny Colour the Picture above, you can use crayons, paints, pens, glitter- let your imagination go wild! Send your entry with your name, address and the name of the school or nursery that you attend to: Colouring Competition, Kids Direct Ltd., PO"Box 314, Duddon, Cheshire, CW6 0HJ Closing date 30th April 2013 www.kidsdirect.org
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“Vegetables! I don’t like them!” As a mother of two children and a qualified Dietitian for over 10 years, if I got given a pound for every time I heard those words I could retire. Fruit and vegetables have long been identified as having beneficial properties in preventing certain diseases i.e. obesity, high cholesterol and constipation to name a few. Fruit and vegetables contain vitamins, minerals and fibre that the body needs to help maintain a healthy balance. Unfortunately, vegetables can turn out to be children’s and adults least favourite food. The Department of Health recommends 5 portions of fruit and vegetables daily 1 portion is 2-3 tablespoons of vegetables. -1 piece of fruit i.e. apple, orange. - A small bowl of salad. - 1 handful of grapes, strawberries or other berries. For more portion ideas see www.nhs.uk/Livewell/5ADAY/Pages/Portion sizes.aspx So how can we get the family to start saying “I like them!” Here are a few simple ideas for VEGETABLES. Variety is very important, try not to stick to carrots and peas, think of all the vegetables starting with A Ackee, Artichoke, Aubergine, to T tomato. The majority of
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vegetables are available all year round now, fresh or frozen, and not just in season so trial some different vegetables. Establish vegetables/salad at each evening meal. Remember that we have to taste something at least 10 times for us to like a flavour; hence this is a good routine to follow for our taste buds and health. Here are some meal ideas with veggies included: • Fish fingers, oven chips with green beans & carrots • Risotto rice with peas • Chicken curry with a tin of chick peas added serve with rice • Sausages, mashed potato, roasted parsnips & butternut squash and gravy • Chicken breast grilled with potato wedges,salsa sauce, corn on the cob and baked beans. • Pasta & cauliflower or broccoli cheese bake • Takeaway curry- try a side order of Saag Aloo- spinach & potato or Aloo Gobipotato & cauliflower Grate the following for a change to your green salad, around 5-6 portions in this salad • • • •
1 raw carrot Half a raw celeriac Half a cucumber 1 pear
Emotions- If you don’t like a vegetable yourself try not to show your child your dislike, let them make up their own minds.
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KIDS DIRECT
VEGETABLES I DON”T LIKE THEM!
Don’t cajole bribe or push your child to try different vegetables, battles over food will only make situations worse. Remember that mealtimes are not just for nourishment but in our busy lifestyles they are a chance for the family to get together. If mealtimes are becoming frustrating (believe me my husband and I have been there!) try to put things into perspective and keep calm, if your children won’t try the vegetables today, tomorrow is another day! Patience and persistence is the key. Tomatoes are a great versatile… fruit actually, but as we use them more in savoury foods they are included. • Raw tomatoes with a salad. • Grilled tomatoes on your beef burger. • Tomato puree on your pizza base. • Tinned tomatoes with a breakfast i.e. with grilled bacon, scrambled egg and toast. • Sun dried tomatoes mixed into a rice kedgeree or risotto. • Italian tomato sauce made with tinned or fresh tomatoes (see Italian bolognese sauce recipe below). • Tomato or minestrone soup. Add vegetables to make the base of a fantastic tasty Italian bolognese sauce. And no one will ever see a vegetable! If you are working the next day get the veg and meat prepared the night before and a slow cooker is a wise investment. Around 6-8 portions of vegetables in this dish. • 1 raw carrot, 1 raw courgette, 1 red pepper, 1 onion, 3 garlic cloves. • Chop all of the above into small pieces (an electric chopper is very time saving). • Fry the veg for 10 minutes with a splash of olive oil. • Transfer the cooked veggies into a large pan with a lid or a slow cooker. •Fry your beef or pork mince in the same pan and for more flavour add 3 rashes of bacon chopped up (optional). •Transfer the browned meat to the large pan with the veggies then add 1-2 tins of tomatoes. • Add one chicken stock cube, a pinch of paprika, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano or basil and season with salt & pepper. If you need more fluid add a drop of water. • Mix together well and cook on low for at least 2-6 hours or better still put your slow cooker on first thing and it will be ready when you get home from work. • Serve with pasta/rice or jacket potato. Beans and lentils are great and versatile and they contain high amounts of fibre. Here are some ideas for beans/lentils to be added into your cooking. • Chicken fajita mix with wraps, add a tin of mixed beans into the mix.
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• Next time you have a takeaway curry try one of the lentil dishes called dhals i.e. Tarka dahl • Baked beans on toast • Red kidney beans in a chili-con-carne • Bolotti beans added into stews or casseroles • Pearl barley added into a chicken or steak pie sauce. Light up your family meals with a range of recipes that are quick, nutritious, and easy to make. We all have a list of meals that we cook in the week and have perfected so that the family enjoys. My favourite chefs are Nigella Lawson who is great for working parents as it cuts corners without impairing taste. Jamie Oliver is a true lover of vegetables and fruit and the majority of his meals are based around these. Check out websites for “free recipes” or look for the free recipe cards in your supermarket. Eat up your vegetables in front of the kids. A lot of adults who don’t like vegetables often can trace back their dislike from their childhood. They may have been forced to eat them and thus created bad experiences of vegetables. This is not the way to get children eating veg and can result in food aversion to vegetables, if carried on throughout adulthood can increase the risk of developing diseases. Children copy role models and if you can overcome your dislike of vegetables, then your children can see that they are part of a healthy balanced meal and not something to be avoided. Stews, soups and stir-frys are a great way of utilizing your vegetables. Fresh, frozen, tinned and dried veg all counts to your portion requirements. • Fresh- broccoli, carrots, sugar snap peas, baby sweetcorn, onions, peppers. • Frozen- corn on the cob, roasted peppers, roasted parsnips, mixed vegetables, peas, green beans. • Tinned- beans, mushy peas, chick-peas. • Dried- mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes. Get experimenting with veggies! If you would like to discuss your diet with a registered Dietitian then please discuss this with your Doctor GP. Our thanks to Claire Chaudhry for providing the information for this feature. Claire is employed in the NHS as a Community Dietitian based in Wrexham/Flintshire, her special interests are Diabetes, Obesity and Healthy eating.
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The Nina Gaskill School of Dance is celebrating its 25th anniversary year. Established in 1987 the school has grown with an excellent reputation for teaching to a high technical level in a safe, friendly and fun environment. The school offers classes in RAD ballet, ISTD modern, jazz, tap, and commercial dance. Starting with preschool ages, class levels range up to and include Advanced 1 RAD Ballet and ISTD Modern. Past students have successfully auditioned for establishments such as the Northern Ballet School, and the Royal Academy of Dance. Nina is planning a reunion and would love to hear from any past pupils of the school. Email:nina.gaskill@tesco.net.
Chris Linklater is an experienced teacher of music and dance. Now concentrating on piano she teaches from home. Chris teaches all ages and standards and welcomes those who work shifts. Students are entered for practical and theory exams with the ABRSM if they wish or play for pleasure.
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KIDS DIRECT Sophie Gallie is a graduate of The Hammond School, and the Royal Academy of Dance Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies. She has also been awarded with the RAD’s Registered Teachers Status. Since graduating from The Hammond Sophie has become a highly regarded and soughtafter dance teacher. The Sophie Gallie Dance Academy has been established since 2011 and is growing rapidly in reputation & student numbers, due to this SGDA has now relocated to Dodleston Village Hall, Chester CH4 9NT.
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DRAMA, DANCE & MUSIC The academy offers a variety of dance classes on a Friday & Saturday for children aged 17 months to 15 years. Dance styles vary from Classical Ballet to Street Jazz. The ‘Tiny Toes’ class (17 months - 2.5 years) has proved very popular for parent & child. Children are encouraged to study as many different dance styles as possible (contemporary, tap, modern, lyrical, jazz musical theatre). The Academy prides itself on providing excellent dance training whilst maintaining a fun and family-like environment. Call Sophie on 07891456184 for more information.
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SPRING 2013 The aim of Rastros no Ar is to share the Brazilian art form of Capoeira with communities and participants from all walks of life; from regular children's and adult classes, to afterschool clubs and performance workshops, from community carnival projects to outreach work with young people in difficulty. As a social enterprise, all their profits will be ploughed back into community projects in the local area. Capoeira is mixture of dance, martial arts, acrobatics and music. It makes you sweat, laugh and grimace at times (the sweat is all the time to be honest) but above all it will make you smile! Contra-Mestre Piolho currently teaches regular adult and children’s classes in Chester: Capoeira Kids classes are held on Mondays 6-7pm at The Unity Centre, 17 Cuppin Street, Chester, CH1 2BN. Capoeira Kids classes cost £4 per class and are suitable for ages 6+ (If two siblings attend together the second is half price! So only £6 for two siblings!)
Stagecoach is a childrens` part-time theatre arts school that teaches the three main theatre skills of singing, drama and jazz dance. The school has many students that appear in professional theatre, television and even films, However, although its main aim is to provide children with a sound theatre-skills base, it is also proud of the excellent byproducts of selfconfidence and
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comradeship which makes the school so popular with parents and their children. Stagecoach opened in Chester in 1993 and is run by Karen Partington and her excellent teaching staff. Its main classes are for children between the age of 6 and 16, but their is a special set of classes for 4-6 yr olds. The school operates from Bishops High
School on a Wednesday, Thursday, Friday or Saturday and the class sizes, which are age-based, are for fifteen students. Stagecoach have provided children for lots of professional theatre and television parts. For further details please call 01244 316187 www.stagecoach,co,uk/c hester
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DRAMA, DANCE & MUSIC
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SPRING 2013 South Cheshire Ballet & Theatre School recognise the importance of performance experience and so not only produce their own school show but also encourage pupils to auditions for local productions and pantomimes. Pupils can also take part in competitions throughout the year at various locations around the country. South Cheshire Ballet & Theatre School was opened in 1996 with just a few students and now has two very established branches based in Chester and Crewe.
Theatretrain is celebrating it's 20th birthday by taking over the O2 in London with a show featuring 3000 children from all over the UK. Pupils from local schools in Chester, Mold and Wrexham will all be taking part in this spectacular event. New pupils joining now will also be eligible to take part. It's no wonder that they've earned their reputation as "The Company That Loves To Perform" as in the last year pupils from the schools in Wrexham, Chester and Mold have taken part in Theatretrain shows at The Forum Studio Theatre in Chester, The Palace Theatre in Manchester, The Stiwt in www.kidsdirect.org
Wrexham and even The Royal Albert Hall in London. Their weekly classes of singing, dancing and acting not only teach performance skills, but also valuable developmental skills about teamwork, discipline and confidence building. Registrations are now being taken for children wanting to join Theatretrain Saturday Morning Schools in Wrexham, Chester and Mold as well as the Friday Evening School at Chester's Forum Studio Theatre (the old Gateway Theatre). Theatretrain was established in 1992 and has 100 schools across the UK and Ireland. It concentrates on two processes - learning
skills in the performing arts and performing those skills to an audience. Every year each child in Theatretrain's schools has the opportunity to perform in at least one production either locally, in one of the larger regional theatres or in the West End. This year's themed Summerschools are also booking. The week-long workshops give children classes in singing, dancing and acting whilst working towards an end of week presentation for family and friends. The group's website at www.chestersummersch ool.co.uk also features photos and videos from least year's events. 22
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DRAMA, DANCE & MUSIC
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SPRING 2013
Delta Academy of Dance and Performing Arts offer weekly dance classes for children aged 2 1/2 years and upwards. Classes are held in Borras Park, Tanyfron, Garden Village and Ruabon. Dance classes include Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Song, Street and Mime. These exciting classes start from just £4 a lesson and lead to medal tests, trophies, qualifications and shows. All syllabi follow LAMDA (Drama), National College of Music and LAMDA (Singing) and ISTD and ADA (Dance). Delta Academy also offer a Performing Arts Package which includes three hours of tuition; one hour of Drama, one hour of Singing and one hour of Dance. These fun-filled, dynamic classes are held on Friday evenings or Saturday afternoons and are taught by highly qualified, experienced tutors. Whether your flair is for singing, dancing or acting, with your talent comes confidence, independence and a passion for life‌.. Delta will inspire you! www.kidsdirect.org
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DRAMA, DANCE & MUSIC
The Quavers Music Course for children has been designed to enable all children to enjoy learning to make music to a standard pleasing to themselves and others while having tremendous fun! Children will learn to read, write, understand and make music through a programme which captures the children’s imaginations as they explore the delightful world and language of music. Some of the many additional benefits of the Quavers course include, increased language and reading skills, confidence and self-esteem.
Having fun at Quavers Music
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SPRING 2013
Pointe Works is a privately run dance school, providing a happy, safe and supportive environment in which students can explore their individual creativity whilst acquiring dance skills and techniques. It welcomes students of all abilities, ages, nationalities, races, genders, and religious backgrounds, promoting equality and inclusion in its teaching. In assisting students to maximize their dance potential, Pointe Works is committed to continuing professional development to ensure the knowledge and teaching practice remains at a consistently high standard. Pointe Works offers classes in Ballet and Modern Jazz. The Royal Academy of Dance syllabus is taught in Ballet Classes where children can start from the age of 2 and the IDTA's Modern Jazz syllabus is taught from the age of 5. Classes take place weekly during term time at The Jessie Hughes Village Hall in Eaton & Tarporley Community Centre. Razzamataz Chester runs weekly classes in the city centre for budding performers aged 4-18 years. Their classes are fun, fast and funky whether you just want to have fun or want to make a career in performance! Razzamataz offer fantastic performance opportunities for all ages and hold annual shows, awards ceremonies, performances in the community and have links with industry auditions. All the teaching staff are CRB checked and have relevant qualifications and experience. Small class sizes with strict ratios means that each student gets a great learning experience whilst parents can rest assured that their children are safe. Classes are competitively priced starting from ÂŁ6.00 per hour. FREE taster sessions are available, book now! www.kidsdirect.org
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BRAND NEW WEBSITE
Just launched our brand new website Chester a great place to live, work, and raise a family. Kids Direct is here to make life easier, and more fun, by featuring products, services and businesses that cater to your kids and family. To compliment our magazine we now have a great new website Kids Direct is different every issue, and so is our website. Check back often and see all we have for you! Be sure to “Like� us on Facebook, for updates, special offers, latest news and the chance to enter in our draw to win a lovely KIds Direct Teddy
http://www.facebook.com/kidsdirect
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Mum, Can we have a pet? Many children would love a pet and most parents will have this conversation at some point when your children are desperate for something furry or scaly to share your home. Acquiring a new pet can be interesting, fun and rewarding. Many children want a pet, but more children are not able to provide for that pet, everyday for its whole life. So, you should only consider having a pet if the adults in the family are happy to include it and they are able and willing to assume overall www.kidsdirect.org
responsibility for the animal. The main points to consider are: !Financial: Are you prepared for the financial costs, not just of buying the animal in the first place but also for keeping the animal each week of its life? Also include the costs of any equipment, such as tanks, heaters, beds, toys etc. Stick insects are relatively cheap to buy ponies are not! ! Time: Do you know how much time will be needed to care for the animal? What will you need to do on a daily, weekly and monthly basis? Snails are not demanding but rabbits are! ! Space: Do you have sufficient space to keep this animal? Fish will stay put in their tank, hens need plenty of space to explore. ! Will this pet fit in to your lifestyle? What will happen 28
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KIDS DIRECT when you go on holiday? Or out for the day? A hamster may not miss you during the day, a dog may be able to come with you on your days out ! Knowledge: Find out as much as you can before acquiring your new pet. What do you need to know? Bearded dragons are reasonably straight-forward as pets, snakes require a more in-depth knowledge. ! Lifespan: How long does this animal live for? Can you commit to caring for this animal for that length of time? Gerbils might only live a few years, a parrot may live for 70 years. Before getting a new pet, ask yourself “What can we give this animal?” If you feel as a family you can provide for its needs, then go ahead and look into it further.
MUM, CAN WE HAVE A PET? research to ensure that everyone, including the pet is happy. Further information can be found Pdsa, Your Right Pet www.pdsa.org.uk/managed/y rg-stage1.html NOAH What pet is right for you? www.pethealthinfo.org.uk Our thanks to Erica Peachey for compiling this article. Erica is a consultant in Animal Behaviour and has run a business based on the Wirral for over 20 years. Her family currently consists of three children, four horses, three dogs, two cats, two hens and four Giant African Land Snails and one long suffering husband! www.ericapeachey.co.uk
Although children are good at making promises when they want something, they are not always good at following them through. Make sure that at least one adult in the family is happy to assume overall responsibility for checking that all is well with the pet on a regular basis, helping or taking over if needed. As a general rule most children need help cleaning out a fish tank as tanks are heavy, young children may love their dog but are not old enough to walk him alone and cleaning out a cat litter tray is best done by someone who can be relied on not to drop bits and wash their hands afterwards! Family pets are great, provided plenty of thought has gone into choosing the right pet and being able to look after it properly. You wouldn’t let just anyone come into your family, do plenty of www.kidsdirect.org
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WHATS ON FOR KIDS IN MARCH? 16th March The Body Experience Manchester Museums 11am-4pm. Come and explore the human body with scientists from Life Sciences and Human and Medical Sciences at The University of Manchester. Collect your ‘passport’ and travel around the human body from top to toe. 19th March Baby Explorers Manchester Museum Sensory play and interactive story sessions for babies who aren’t walking yet. Book on 0161 275 2648 (a week before), free, babies and their carers. Limited spaces – booking essential www.museum.manchester. ac.uk/whatson/
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, details do change. No responsibility can be accepted for any errors or omissions It is advisable to phone the venue concerned to check dates and times before setting out
29 March – 1 April Easter Egg Hunt Church farm, Thurstaston, Wirral - Ride on the tractor up to the Church Farm forest, where all the family must work together to play hook-a-duck, basketball dunk and lots more games of skill to find the eggs and solve the Easter puzzle. Then meet the friendly Easter Bunny who’ll reward the kids with chocolate! Tickets must be pre-booked on 0151 648 7838 or www.churchfarm.org.uk.
Oulton Park - Kids under 12 go free www.oultonpark.co.uk
29 Mar To 31 Mar National Waterways Museum Easter Boat Gathering and Sea Shanty Festival Ellesmere Port Boat Museum Traditional gathering of canal boats and sea shanty musicians returns for another year. It’s a colourful weekend of traditional canal crafts, music, boats, demonstrations and more
22nd March until 1st April Easter Egg Hunt Bellis Brothers Farm Shop & Garden Centre – Holt Village, near Wrexham. Tel: 01829 270302 www.bellisbrothers.co.uk Only £1.00 per entry. All proceeds to Nightingale House Hospice. Collect your entry form in store and follow the clues to find the Easter chicks. There will be a small prize for every entry.
Sat 30th British GT Championship and F3 Cup
31st March Eaton Hall Gardens Charity Open Day
Fri 27th March - 14th April Easter Family Fun Trail Beeston Castle & Woodland Park w w w . e n g l i s h heritage.org.uk/beeston
Gates Open 10.30 -5pm 88 acres of gardens, Easter egg trail, family history room, Katie the Steam Train and much more... Entrance via Eccleston/Aldford/Belgrave gates. 30 Mar 2013 To 1 Apr 2013 A Beatrix Potter Easter This bank holiday weekend Tatton Park plays host to an enchanting Beatrix Potter event with activities taking place across the Park. 30th March Willow Weaving: Insect Workshop
3D
Tatton Park - Join Sarah Gallagher Hayes, willow
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WHATS ON FOR KIDS IN APRIL? sculptor and artist and receive expert tuition to create your own beautiful willow sculptures. Suitable for adults and children. Book via Sarah on 07889 507348 or email twigtwisters@aol.com
APRIL
2-5 & 8-12 Explore the Planets Jodrell bank Discovery Centre - Unveiling a new exhibit, science shows, planet path backpacks. www.jodrellbank.net/kids -direct
until 1st April Easter Weekend Eggstravaganza
Suitable for children aged 4-12. Children must be accompanied by an adult. w/c 8th April Time Flys Smartcare, Waverton Village Hall Come and travel with us through a year in a week Full and half days available. Booking essential Tel 01829 741608
Quarry Bank Mill Hunt the clues to earn your egg with the special Cadburys trail over Easter weekend plus games and activities on the Mill Meadow. ÂŁ1 per trail. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/q uarry-bank-mill/things-tosee-and-do/events/ w/c 2nd April Chocolate Heaven Smartcare, Waverton Village Hall A mixed week of fun including chocolate olympics. Full and half days available. Booking essential Tel 01829 741608
Tuesday 2 April Make a Mosaic Grosvenor Museum, Newstead Gallery 2-4pm , Free drop in. Make your mosaic symmetrical or sparkly, multicoloured or monochrome. Create your own design to take home with you. Suitable for children aged 4-12. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
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3rd/4th/5th Easter Soccer Course Soccer Funweeks Cheshire Country Sports Club - Boys & girls aged 5-13 years. Booking essential Tel 01928 740008 www.soccerfunweeks.com
Thursday 4 April Print! Grosvenor Museum, Newstead Gallery 2-4pm Free drop in. Come and see the different types of printing on display in our Open Art Exhibition, then turn your own line drawing into a print. Please wear old clothes as the printing ink can stain. You may need to wait for a place as space is limited.
8th/9th/10th/11th Easter Soccer Course Soccer Funweeks Cheshire Country Sports Club - Boys & girls aged 5-13 years. Booking essential Tel 01928 740008 www.soccerfunweeks.com
Wednesday 10 April Discover the Romans Grosvenor Museum Galleries 11am – 4pm Free drop in. Our Roman galleries have had a makeover, thanks to funding from Arts Council England. There are more objects on display, with new stories from Roman Chester and
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WHATS ON FOR KIDS IN MAY? beyond, plus exciting interactive features. We’ve also made a film about some of the characters portrayed on our nationally important Roman tombstones. Come along, see the transformation, and learn something new! Suitable for children aged 4-12. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Thursday 11 April Mythical Creature Masks Grosvenor Museum, Newstead Gallery 2-4pm Free drop in. Use the mythical creatures found on our Roman tombstones as inspiration to create your own mask to take home. Suitable for children aged 4-12. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, details do change. No responsibility can be accepted for any errors or omissions It is advisable to phone the venue concerned to check dates and times before setting out
people fed during the years of rationing. Try some 1940's games, work a stirrup pump and "Dig for Victory" as the working mill is brought to life with wartime memorabilia.
MAY Sat 4th - Mon 6th MCE British Superbike Championship Oulton Park - Kids under 12 go free www.oultonpark.co.uk
Sat 5th Milkshake live Come out to play! 1pm Pavilion Theatre, Rhyl Box Office 01745 330000 or Book online www.rhylpavilion.co.uk
Sat 27th & Sunday 28th A Wartime Mill
Sat 11th May National Mills Weekend Family Day
Stretton Watermill, Farndon - Discover how Stretton Watermill played an important role in the war effort and helped keep
Stretton Watermill, Farndon, 1-5 pm. National Mills Weekend offers you the chance to find out about stone dressing, milling and
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Sat 18th Summer Fair Popular Firs School, Summer Fair a community event open to all on Sat 18th May at 2pm.Great selection of stalls and entertainments with the children doing singing and dancing demonstrations. Neston Lane, Chester 01244 322443
Sat 25th May Roman Day
Sun 20th & 21st Medieval St George's Weekend Beeston Castle & Woodland Park w w w . e n g l i s h heritage.org.uk/beeston
engineering.
Chester Race Course Roman Day will bring history alive with a celebration of the City of Chester's Roman past there will be a host of free children's activities on the Open Coursers as well as entertainment in the paddocks. Saturday 18 & Sunday 19 Discover Chester’s Medieval Towers Water Tower and King Charles Tower, City Walls 11am-4pm Free drop in. Discover the Water Tower, which once stood in the medieval port of Chester but now sits on dry land, along with the medieval Phoenix Tower, which was re-named after King Charles I after he stood here to watch skirmishes from the battle at Rowton Moor in 1645. Monday 27 May Suitable for children aged
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WHATS ON FOR KIDS IN MAY/JULY? 4-12. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Mon 27th - Fri 31st May Knight's School Beeston Castle & Woodland Park w w w . e n g l i s h heritage.org.uk/beeston
accompanied by an adult. Thursday 30th Try some Medieval Writing Grosvenor Museum, Newstead Gallery 2-4pm Free drop in. Use a quill and ink and try your hand at a calligraphy letter. Suitable for children aged 4-12. Children must be accompanied by an adult. JULY
Mon 27th Make a Medieval Pilgrim Badge Grosvenor Museum, Newstead Gallery 2-4pm Free drop in. Create your own pilgrim badge as a souvenir of your visit to the medieval Chester exhibition. Suitable for children aged 4-12. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Tues 28th Make a Medieval Pouch Grosvenor Museum, Newstead Gallery 2-4pm, Free drop in. Create your own medieval pouch or purse to keep your money safe and secure Suitable for children aged 4-12. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Saturday 6th Nightingale House Dog Show & Family Fun day with Bellis’ Bake Off Competition 10am – 4pm The dog show will have pedigree and novelty classes, open to all. To make the day that bit special there will be fun for all with stalls, games and entertainment, baking and jam competitions. Entry to the fun day is free, entry to the dog show is £1.00 per class. Baking entries need to be in by 10.30am and The dog show will start at 11.00am. All proceeds to Nightingale House Hospice.
Tues 9th - Sun 14th International Musical Eisteddfod, Llangollen Thousands of people from around the world will again descend on the little town of Llangollen this July as it celebrates the 67th annual International Musical Eisteddfod. Over the years the event which began as a festival of peace in the aftermath of the Second World War has grown into one of Europe’s premier music and dance events. Most importantly the competitors have continued to come from all over the world – this year they will be here from Alaska, the Philippines, Russia, South Africa, Hong Kong, Australia, Canada, China, India, New Zealand and Ghana as well as from all over Europe and the UK. This year’s event runs from Tuesday, July 9, when the colourful traditional procession through the town through six days of competitions and concerts to Sunday’s spectacular fireworks extravaganza. For more details on this year’s event go to the website at www.internationaleisteddfod.co.uk and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/llangol len
Wednesday 29th Discover Medieval Chester Grosvenor Museum, Newstead Gallery 11am4pm Free drop in. Meet some colourful characters and learn more about life in medieval Chester. Suitable for children aged 4-12. Children must be
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Bellis Brothers Farm Shop & Garden Centre – Holt Village, near Wrexham. Tel: 01829 270302 www.bellisbrothers.co.uk
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SPRING 2013
Whatever the reason for your visit to Cheshire Pony Parties you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome and receive personal attention. Not only does Amanda create unforgettable pony parties for children aged 2-13, her tiny, gentle ponies also provide wonderful hour long pony experiences and entertain children during the school holidays. “A friend told me you’re wonderful with children” “It was the most stress-free party I’ve done” “Can I come back every day?” just some of the comments we’ve received. Children are treated as individuals and either encouraged or challenged appropriately, including children with special requirements, with the emphasis on fun, confidence building and informal learning. For a truly enchanting experience visit www.CheshirePonyParties.co.uk or ring 01829 219106 www.kidsdirect.org
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LET’S PARTY
Little Tinkers ever enchanting parties will leave your little ones with the most beautiful memories whether you choose Afternoon teas with a Disney princess or a magical palace or space party with 3D rockets, castles and even pirate ships. Their winter wonderland parties with a choice of Ice Castles, igloos and Hansel & Gretal cottage for the children to decorate and play in leading them through to magical lands and beyond with themed games. Parties cover most age ranges and they specialise in tots to teens. They can transform any venue for your big birthday bash and have exciting decor themes and entertainment packages to choose from if you need inspiring, from circus circus with trapeze and fire eaters to Hollywood with lots of glamour and fun, Hawaiian with surfboard simulators, chocolate and candy to Glow parties and so many more to choose from for your 13th Birthday or your sweet 16 they can do pretty and pink to hip hop and urban. Little Gastronomes make great homemade party food that little people really love. They take all the stress out of your child’s party by providing a wonderful selection of healthy and nutritious party food and treats and delivering them directly to your party venue, FREE of charge! All you have to do is lay the table and pour the drinks! All food is priced to suit your budget, visit their website to see the wide selection of menus on offer. NEW from Little Gastronomes is adult party food. Made to the same high quality Janet will cater for adult parties with the adult palette very much in mind. Corporate events can also be catered for. Why not give Little Gastronomes a call and enjoy a hassle- free special occasion, just for grown-ups! www.kidsdirect.org
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SPRING 2013
Mr Bimbamboozle is one of the North West's best loved and most experienced children's entertainers. His happy knack of winning the confidence of even the youngest children, his ability to make then laugh and his gentle but firm control makes him popular with kiddies and parents alike, and he is particularly in demand as a birthday party highlight and in schools, playgroups and nurseries. Whether in the home or community hall Chris brings fun and laughter with magic and Punch & Judy. Such family shows are designed to involve the children and feature the birthday boy or girl who is made to feel very special. The show normally lasts about one hour and involves a great deal of participation with the children and a great deal of laughter.
Great new party idea from Chocolate Pizza - Each child decorates 8" chocolate pizza with sweets & edible decorative toppings, hosted by Giles the chef complete with jacket and Harlequin patterned multi-coloured clothing
Presentations are always tailored to the age range and can feature a variety of puppets. Chris does not normally include Punch and Judy for pre-school nurseries, under-fours enjoy a gentler approach. Details on www.bimbamboozle.com
Ideal for your school fairs - Livid Avians garden game. Coconut shy variation. Throw Angry Birds, knock Bad Piggies off plinths, win prizes. Uses soft plush toys, also available Chocolate fountains with fresh fruit & marshmallows.
During school holiday periods Mr Bimbamboozle can be seen at his own theatre, The Harlequin Puppet Theatre of Rhos-on-Sea in North Wales. See www.puppetshow.info or telephone 01492 548166. www.kidsdirect.org
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LET’S PARTY
Charlie’s Kids Cuts is a unique salon specialising in children’s hair, from their first cut, to their prom night. All stylists are mainstream trained and child friendly! So don’t worry if your little one is going through the terrible twos or the trying teens, our stylists can cut anyone’s hair, even Mum & Dads! With funky styling chairs (Barbie Jeep, yellow Hummer & F22 Combat Jet) for the little ones and styling stations for older children (all fitted with flat screens for DVD’s or Xbox games) we make getting your haircut really fun! Upstairs, are Charlie’s exclusive pamper & party/disco rooms, a great place for children’s parties. We have a variety of packages to choose from, suitable for boys & girls aged 4-14. For more information please call 01244 348500, or visit www.charlieskidscuts.co.uk or follow us on Facebook.
Scrumptious specialises in producing healthy, homemade party food that both you and your child will love. So, bin the cocktail sausages and forget the soggy sandwiches let Scrumptious provide you with an original, imaginative spread of delicious food that you’ll want your child to eat. Scrumptious also provides gorgeous party bags. The bags contain a personalised gingerbread man, or lady, for each party guest, a marshmallow twizzler or a trendy cake pop - all beautifully wrapped - along with a tasteful gift. There is even a nibbles menu for the adults who accompany their children to the party – ensuring that the children get to eat the food that you have ordered for them without their parents picking at it over their shoulder!
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SPRING 2013 Would you like memorable party?
a
fun-packed
The Creepy Crawly Show is enjoyable for all ages and great for Home Parties, Childrens Birthdays, Christenings, Holy Communions and other family celebrations . Everyone can join in from Toddlers to Teens and the adults are entertained too. From party games and music to Get Me Out of Here style challenges and don’t forget the animals, with Snakes, Tarantula, Scorpion, Lizards, Giant African Snails, Hissing Cockroaches, Turtles and many more. It offers great photo opportunities and is all presented by our comical Explorer style entertainer who’ll ensure your occasion is a fun and memorable one. Available throughout Cheshire, Merseyside and Wirral.
With unbeatable prices and expertise Dee’s Partyz takes the stress out of organising a party. Attending your choice of venue, they will make your guests feel special and encouraged in a friendly, safe and caring environment. With Party Games & Dressing up, NEW Teddy & Rag Doll Making, Pamper Parties, Football, Mini Olympics or Craft, there is something for everyone. Be the talk of the playground with a "Teddy or Rag Doll Making Party", where each child can make a new best friend, and dress them up in amazing outfits! Take a look at their new online store where you can buy luxury Teddies and outfits. Parties include FREE invitations, birthday present, group & individual photo taken & presented in a birthday card and a lovely prize for each guest to take home. Book now and Quote "Kids Direct” and receive FREE party bags or Teddy outfit for a Teddy Making Party”. www.kidsdirect.org
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KIDS DIRECT Are you a parent of a child aged between 2 and 7? Do you want your child to have fun in a structured environment? Do you want them to learn how to get on with others, gain confidence whilst receiving praise and encouragement? Do you want them to enjoy exercise whilst improving their balance, co-ordination and behavioural control? Then Rugbytots is for you! Rugbytots Wirral was started in February 2012 by owners Colin Bunting and Will Gardner. Currently they run 18 classes across 5 venues and after many
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SPORTS FOR KIDS requests, they are finally launching classes in Chester from Saturday 13th April 2013.
enjoyed every session" Head Teacher, Mount Primary School
Rugbytots also works with many primary schools and Childrens centres, delivering Rugbytots Fun, giving GIRLS and BOYS experience in all aspects of Rugby, such as running with the ball, finding space, kicking, catching, TRY scoring and much more.
Thank you so much, my son Finley absolutely loves coming and he has really started coming out of his shell!!! He can't wait for the new term to start xxx Bebington Oval Mum
"Rugbytots are quite unique among the coaching companies that we have worked with. Their coaching and equipment offers something very unique and of an excellent quality. Most importantly; the children
The feedback from parents, teachers and Education specialists alike has been really rewarding for Colin and Will. Check out their short film to get a feel for yourself – www.letsgomagazine.co. uk/rugbytots
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SPRING 2013 Ace Tennis Academy provides high quality tennis tuition to children of all ages and standards. The academy is based at Hoole LTC, which was awarded "Club of the Year" in 2012 for its tennis programme by Cheshire LTA. The Academy develops young players' skills through a mix of fun games-based tuition and has recently adopted the LTA Mini Player Awards to help monitor progress. There are three levels of programme (Development, Challenger and Performance) to provide for the differing aspirations and standards of players from beginner to advanced level. There are also coaching centres at Kelsall Tennis Club, Christleton High School, Farndon Sports & Social Club, Manley Tennis Club and Tarporley High School.
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KIDS DIRECT A-Star Sports offer inclusive, developmental multi-sports coaching for children aged 2-10 years (3+ in holiday clubs). Building on a fun ABCbased foundation (agility, balance and coordination), your child will be introduced to and develop the skills for more then ten core sports. Learning in a positive, energy packed environment encourages children to enjoy sport. It is the ambition for every A-Star Sports child to enjoy sport for life. This is why their multisports journey also includes additional activities inspired by sport in the news for your child to discover sports over and above
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SPORTS FOR KIDS the core ten. Weekly Classes Check their website for a full list of classes, but they are currently adding new locations to their well established list. They have Holt and Heswall starting during November and hopefully also further venues in Penyffordd and the Wirral soon. Holiday club news – now accepting childcare vouchers! At their new holiday club location they are now registered with OFSTED and able to accept Childcare vouchers. The award winning and wellknown local team will deliver an action-packed holiday clubs at one of
Cheshire’s premier sporting facilities – Cheshire County Sports Club. Working in partnership with the Sports Club team means that they can offer more places during every school holiday, amazing indoor and outdoor facilities and their best prices ever. For more details on holiday clubs, regular weekly classes, parties and events visit their website and local facebook page, or contact them directly on 07932 182148 / sharon.bassett@astarsports.co.uk. www.a-starsports.co.uk www.facebook.com/ASt arSports.Chester @AStarSports_UK
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SPRING 2013 Kinder Swim is an exciting new swim school operating in the Cheshire and Newcastle-Under-Lyme areas for babies, pre-school and after-school children. They have recently secured use of a new pool at Delamere Forest. Kinder Swim was set up by Kath and Sharon after they had been teaching babies and children to swim for the last 5 years but felt they wanted to offer a more personal service within their own swim school. ‘We are passionate about teaching children of all ages and abilities to become water confident and take those first steps towards independent swimming. Their lessons are fun and stimulating and incorporate vital survival skills whilst still focusing on fun and enjoyment.’ Kath and Sharon also encourage parents, many of whom are non-swimmers, to take the plunge and have fun in the water with their children. ‘Swimming is a great way to keep fit as well as have fun with your little ones.!
Wrexham Climbing Centre (@ Plas Power Adventure) is the biggest and only dedicated climbing centre in NE Wales. They also offer outdoor rock climbing and Abseiling, Indoor Bouldering, High Ropes course, KMX karts, Archery, Orienteering and a superb onsite cafe. A family friendly environment for a great day out that caters for hundreds of children every year, specialising in awesome weekend birthday parties! Many of their customers have become firm friends and have been with them for years, so they must be doing something right! Later this year, Plas Power Adventure will be celebrating their 20th Anniversary so why not pay this long standing, successful business a visit for a daring and exciting family adventure you’ll never forget? www.kidsdirect.org
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Soccer Funweeks will once again be running courses in Chester this Easter at Cheshire County Sports Club – Upton, Chester.
environment. Established for over twenty years in the area.
The main feature this Easter will be the guest appearance from Danny Murphy (Previously Liverpool/Fulham/Spurs & Presently Blackburn Captain), and of their football inflatable – exclusive to their courses along with their football head tennis net, football cricket and themed tournaments and player profiles. Soccer Funweeks offers football coaching of F.A standard, a course content tailored to suit all abilities while achieving maximum enjoyment for all players male and female. The personal approach and attention to detail provides a course content with a football dynamic conducted in a secure
Online bookings and access to information and applications via their web page : www.soccerfunweeks.com / info@soccerfunweeks.com or by contacting their booking line (01928) 740008
Easter Soccer Courses 2013
Week 1 - Cheshire County Sports Club, Chester April 3rd/4th/5th (3 days)
Week 2 - Cheshire County Sports Club, Chester April 8th/9th/10th/11th (4 days)
Boys & Girls Ages 5-13 years Option 1 - (9.15-3pm) Option 2 - 9.15-1.15pm Qualified Coaching/Netted Pitches/Radar Gun/FreeKick Walls/Player Profiles Special Feature Danny Murphy Guest Appearance
Visit Us/Contact Us: (Family Discount Package Available)
www.soccerfunweeks.com Email info@soccerfunweeks.com
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KIDS DIRECT This issue, I would like to concentrate on Irlen® Syndrome (Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome). Helen Irlen’s® research has gained more respect over the last two decades and it is now estimated that approximately 15% of the population suffer from the syndrome; some may have Dyslexia also, but not all do. It is estimated that just 10% have Dyslexia. She also noticed that some clients with Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD) may have been mislabelled. Diagnosticians and screeners are now in 24 countries fitting over 100,000 children with Irlen® spectral filters and millions use appropriate screened-for coloured Irlen® overlays. I fell across The Irlen® Method in 2005 when researching early reading failure and I wanted to help pupils who lacked motivation, never read for pleasure or had poor concentration. Not many educationalists seemed aware of Irlen® Syndrome and so my passion with Irlen® and Dyslexia was born. During the second year of my Masters course, I was shockingly diagnosed, at the age of 40, with Irlens®. My tutor was amazed to see that I have got this far academically without being diagnosed. With hindsight, I can see similarities with myself and my boys, as we have to reread many times for information to ‘sink’ in, we have to print it off and read again and we suffer from fatigue when reading. It can be inherited www.kidsdirect.org
Irlen® Syndrome and so my Autistic son and my eldest son who has SpLD, will now be tested too.
People who have Irlen® Syndrome have a visual-perception issue; the difficulty being caused by the way the brain interprets the information that is being sent through the eyes. Sufferers can perceive things in an unstable, distorted fashion; where the print becomes less clear as they continue reading. Signs, labels, maps and charts can be difficult to see as can looking at computers and the television. It concentrates on sensory overloads, depth perception, light sensitivity (to fluorescent, bright lights with/without colour and pattern distortions), sensory integration and discomfort when reading. Sufferers may also complain of: * The glare on white backgrounds or of bright lights * Dizziness, fatigue, headaches, migraines, blinks or squints a lot, sore eyes or stomach aches. * Difficulties with handwriting, reading (may be choppy and hesitant), spelling, maths, reading musical notes, comprehending, writing, copying and note-taking. * Difficulties using whiteboards, overheads and computers. * Under-performing in Sports. 44
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Irlen® Syndrome
* Eye tracking issues and stress induced by the volume of print on the page. * Are accident-prone and/or drops or knocks things over. * Have behavioural problems, easily distracted, fidgety and can’t stay focused. * Their academic performance is poorer in test conditions.
Anyone presenting with several of these characteristics should be screened for Irlen® Syndrome after a general eye sight test. The Screening test is non-invasive and very cost effective. I will screen at the coloured overlay stage, but will refer you on after this if need be, as Irlen® filters can only be provided by accredited Irlen® diagnosticians. Sometimes the Irlen® coloured overlays/filters are enough to reduce the
symptoms alone. I have been referring children for a while and it is always rewarding to see these same children suddenly making progress at school, being less anxious, focusing for longer, having their self-esteem raised and seeing the smile on their face when their test scores go up! I am now able to screen these children myself and the whole process is more consistent with no waiting times. Irlen® Syndrome exists on a continuum of slight to severe and treatment maybe part of the missing link in bringing relief from a number of the aforementioned symptoms. For further information please contact http://www.irlen.org.uk
Don’t Get Left Behind!! With over 25 years experience of getting your business into the lime light. Friendly, local service Highly regarded, staple publication with loyal readership and advertisers For cost effective advertising, give us a call now. www.kidsdirect.org
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SPRING 2013 Bellis Bros Events 2013
Potato Planning Demonstration Day Saturday 23rd March 11am – 4pm, Free event Potato growing demonstration from Phil from Westland and Vicky from Bellis’. Everything you need to know to know and everything you need to get started! Regular demonstrations throughout the day. Easter Egg Hunt 22nd March until 1st April Only £1.00 per entry. All proceeds to Nightingale House Hospice. Collect your entry form in store and follow the clues to find the Easter chicks. There will be a small prize for every entry. Gardeners Q and A Thursday 25th April 7.00pm Tickets for this event are £8.00 to include a glass of wine. Tickets are
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available from Nightingale Hospice or at Bellis’.
House
This will be a thoroughly enjoyable evening raising much needed funds for the Hospice. This year’s guest include: Paul Cook the Curator from Ness Gardens, Christine Foulkes-Jones the owner of Hall Farm Nursery, Medwyn Williams the vegetable expert and Anne Harrison who specialises in hanging baskets. Refreshments will also be able to purchase from the restaurant. The Potting Bench 25th, 26th, 27th and 28th April 11am – 4pm In-store container and hanging basket demonstrations. We can pot up your containers or baskets or you can just watch and learn and buy the finished product.
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SERVICES FOR PARENTS EDUCATION & CHILDCARE
Top Tips for your Garden this Spring 1. Cut back overgrown deciduous hedges 2. Prune roses as appropriate. 3. Kill moss and scarify lawns, re-seed where necessary. 4. Split and re-plant herbaceous plants. 5. Tidy up ponds. 6. Dig out compost heaps and use to mulch roses and other shrubs. 7. Treat any paved area with an algae killer. 8. Check and renew wire work for climbers, tree ties and tree stakes. 9. Give house plants a Spring clean, wash leaves, re-pot and remove any dead leaves. 10. Lightly prune any trees and shrubs that have been damaged by frost.
Thanks to Meadowsweet Gardening Services for compiling these tips
Meadowsweet Gardening Services ! Garden Clearance ! Lawn &"Hedge Cutting ! One-Off tidy ups ! Garden Design ! Over 25 years experience ! Lady &"Gentleman gardner!s available ! Free Estimates
For further details Please call Hugh TEL: 07709 259241 www.kidsdirect.org
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SPRING 2013
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SERVICES FOR PARENTS
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SPRING 2013
Handmade Children’s Oak Bed £100 ono
Chris offers a traditional service ensuring the smooth running of your event so you can relax and enjoy the day …you are definitely one of the best Toastmasters I have had the pleasure to work with… John Conte
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EDUCATION & CHILDCARE
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KIDS DIRECT Abbey Gate Prep School was founded in 1910 and continues to educate children to the highest possible standard. Abbey Gate creates an environment where children are stimulated, challenged and motivated to learn, encouraging them to achieve beyond expectations. They build confidence and promote effort and pride in what they do, by celebrating and rewarding every achievement and giving all children a taste of success. As a school founded on Christian principles, they strive to create an ethos of trust, respect and care for each other and by keeping numbers small they are able to
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SPRING 2013 know and value each and every individual. They are proud of their 100 year old history, but they are a forwardlooking school, embracing new
educational ideas and technology, taking care of their environment and taking their place within the wider community. Being located near to many outstanding Independent and grammar secondary schools is an additional
benefit to the school. They are dedicated to ensuring their children succeed with their 11+ examinations, without undue pressure. Last year, without exception, every Year 6 child achieved success and left the school as well motivated, confident individuals with the skills to support them on the road to high achievement. Parents have an essential role to play and are very welcome in school. The school views a child's education as a partnership between them, and their opendoor policy makes parents and the wider family very welcome.
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KIDS DIRECT The Hammond in Chester is the leading provider for performing arts education in the North West. Recognised and funded as a centre of excellence by the Department for Education (DfE) under the Music and Dance Scheme (MDS), and also receiving support through the Education Funding Agency (EFA’s) Dance and Drama Award (DaDA) Scheme. The Hammond caters for pupils from the ages of 4-11 in its new Preparatory School, moving on to students from the age of 11 to 20 years plus, providing Post -16 Vocational Training leading to the National Diplomas in Professional Dance and Musical Theatre. The Sixth Form Drama Course combines a BTEC Level 3 in Performing Arts (Acting) with the study of two ‘A’ Levels. The new Preparatory School is located within the School’s grounds at Hoole Bank and offers a separate and secure Key Stage 1-2 education to pupils,
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SPRING 2013 who can also take advantage of the extensive Dance, Music and Drama facilities contained within The Hammond Performing Arts Centre, in addition to The Hammond’s Science and IT facilities. The lower school (11-16) offers full time educational courses in Dance, Drama and Music, alongside GCSE level academic provision in a broad range of subjects. In recent years, significant investment has enabled The Hammond to expand and develop into the unique establishment it is today. The Hammond Theatre seating over 400 in the Performing Arts Centre, Music Faculty with recording studio, individual practice rooms and an AppleMac computer suite plus seven modern state of the art dance studios all offer outstanding facilities, allowing excellent performance opportunities for their talented students
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KIDS DIRECT The Firs School has been providing outstanding primary education for boys and girls aged 3 - 11 since 1945. Parents speak of the wonderful caring atmosphere and others talk of The Firs giving a great foundation for life. Its last inspection report said that "enthusiastic focused teaching leads to excellent learning and high levels of achievement". If these are some of the things you want for your child come and visit The Firs and see for yourself. As one of Cheshire's leading Independent primary schools The Firs supports and encourages the individual gifts and aptitudes of each child,
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SPRING 2013 using all the skills and focus of a specialist primary school. As a stand alone primary school undistracted by the pressures and requirements of a secondary department The Firs is able to work closely with parents to ensure that the child's next step in their educational journey is absolutely suited to their needs. The Firs enjoys excellent relations with a wide range of independent and maintained secondary schools which support this process. There are still a few places in Reception for entry in September 2013. Kindergarten entry is throughout the year. Please call to
arrange a taster session for either age group. Look out for the popular Firs Summer Fair a community event open to all on Sat 18th May at 2pm. We’ll have a great selection of stalls and entertainments with the children doing singing and dancing demonstrations. Find out more details online at www.firsschool.net Prospective parents are always welcome to visit the school. More information is available on www.firsschool.net Please contact the office to arrange a visit on 01244 322443 or email admin@firsschool.net
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Abbey Gate College is a well-established, coeducational school for pupils aged 4 to 18 on the outskirts of Chester. Aldford School is home to the popular and successful Junior and Infant Department. At Aldford School, pupils develop a love of learning in a friendly and caring environment. Through beautifully maintained, extensive grounds and a wide range of expertise on the staff, pupils have the opportunity to develop in all areas of the curriculum, inclusive of a thriving music, drama and sporting timetable. Pupils also make extensive use of the excellent facilities at the senior school. They now offer Taster www.kidsdirect.org
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Sessions for 3-4 year olds throughout the year and during these sessions children are able to experience the schools environment and take part in a range of activities. Staff work directly with the children as well as observing their skills of independence and communication. Offers to join their small Reception class are made to successful children after attendance at a session. They value each and every child and the potential in every pupil is nurtured and encouraged. Education is far greater than simply achieving super examination results; at Abbey Gate College the journey itself is of equal
importance, providing a stimulating experience, widening opportunities and providing an education for life. They are confident that their children become confident, caring members of society and in the last inspection report it was noted that the pupils achieve their personal and academic potential. Abbey Gate College is a successful and happy school where, ‘ The students’ personal qualities are outstanding and fully supported within the college by the positive family type ambience. Relationships between staff and students themselves are outstanding and conducive to excellent behaviour’ (ISI 2010). 57
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Is your child struggling with Maths or English? Do they need to help to build their confidence, or would you like them to achieve more? Smart Stations enables your child the opportunity to build their skills and confidence in Maths and English. The computer-based resource provides individualised support in maths, reading, writing and spelling for pupils aged 5 to 14. It is proven to make a real difference to achievement and it enables every pupil to reach their full potential. How Can Smart Stations Help Your Child? Each child undergoes a full assessment upon registration and then works on a personalised programme of work based on their ability and level of knowledge. One parent recently wrote “What a lovely environment you provide. My son has really benefited and most of all found it enjoyable. I would definitely recommend Smart Stations to other parents�.
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KIDS DIRECT Explore Learning in Chester provides maths and English tuition to 514 year olds of all abilities. The centre is located inside Sainsbury’s in Great Boughton, and is part of Explore Learning’s nationwide network of tuition centres. The Explore ethos is that confidence, enthusiasm and independence are as important as academic progress to a child’s development. The centre in Chester operates on a membership basis, and children attend twice a week for hour-long tuition sessions using programmes that are
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EDUCATION & CHILDCARE individually tailored to their own needs. When they return to pick up their children, parents are given detailed feedback on their child’s progress from Explore Tutors. As the winner of S u p p l e m e n t a r y Education Provider of the Year in the Education Investor Awards 2011 and 2012, Explore Learning is seeing a big increase in demand from parents seeking tuition for their children. The manager of the Chester Centre, Louise Jones explains “Our great location means that where parents can drop their children in at a time that suits them – after school or at
weekends. We find that parents love it not only because they see an improvement in their children’s maths and English but also because it encourages them to have fun whilst learning.” Explore Learning in Chester is offering free trial sessions for families interested in finding out more. To book a free hour-long session with an Explore tutor, call 01244 343 433 or book online at www.explorelearning.co. uk/chester.
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Join a PTA and make a difference Many hundreds of thousands of parents throughout the UK are volunteer members of Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs) at their child’s school; giving their time and energy to fundraising and working in partnership with the school. PTAs are a valuable resource providing much needed funds to improve the school experience for thousands of children and young people in the primary and secondary sector. This amazing achievement makes a real difference to schools and their pupils by providing extra resources and in some cases making activities such as school trips possible. And all of this happens because of a dedicated group of volunteers who make up a PTA. Now’s the time to get involved! A successful PTA brings together parents, teachers and school staff who are interested in supporting the school. It provides an opportunity for everyone to work together and with a common purpose. Activity will vary from school to school; almost all PTAs are involved in fundraising and most will organise social events for parents and children. Many provide helpers for outings and special events and a large number run clubs for sport, music or drama. Some PTAs will work with the school, organising meetings to inform parents about education issues; particularly when changes are taking place.
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A successful PTA will bring together parents and teachers who are interested in supporting the school. It provides an opportunity for everyone to work together and with a common purpose. If you’re a parent (or teacher!) and you want to get involved then speak to a member of the committee to see what’s involved. You may feel that you simply want to lend a helping hand by volunteering at a PTA event or you may have time to join the committee and get involved in organising and planning events and deciding how the funds raised are spent. Speak to the Chair and let them know what skills you can bring, even if this is simply promoting PTA events to other parents. Your contribution, no matter how small, will be warmly welcomed! The facts about PTAs On average, a PTA will raise £7,000 per annum, with 20% raising over £10,000. PTAs therefore contribute a massive £100 million to enhance the education experience of our children. Almost all PTAs do some form of fundraising but are increasingly undertaking other activities. Over a third regularly report that they support parents to get involved in their children’s education and that the PTA works with the local community. And in England and Wales, 70% are registered charities.
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KIDS DIRECT Top tips to recruit new parents Before you start looking for support it is important that your PTA is clear about its aims and what role it plays in the life of the school. Understanding why people volunteer is crucial. Most PTA volunteers give their time because they want to get involved in their children’s education experience and make a tangible difference whilst their child is at the school. This can be achieved in a number of ways such as: >fundraising for items that the school could not otherwise afford >providing before and after school >activities supporting the school’s aims and >objectives providing funding for the extras >helping to provide a richer education
JOIN A PTA In a world where everyone’s time is precious it can be difficult to recruit new volunteers, so think about your game plan and don’t leave things to the last minute. If you know that committed PTA volunteers will be leaving when their child moves on, then put a succession plan in place as early as you can. Create a timebank, so that parents can give whatever time they have from a few hours a term to a regular commitment. As the saying goes....every little helps.
They also do it because it’s fun, enjoyable and very rewarding. Supporting the PTA can also provide volunteers with new and valuable skills or a mechanism to brush up on old ones! If you want to get people involved clear communication is key: >Have a PTA notice board in school >Create a PTA website or a have a dedicated PTA page on the school website. Make sure content is updated regularly. >Make sure PTA events and news are always included in the PTA / school newsletter >Set up an email group >When you are fundraising for a specific project or item make sure you publicise the target, so that people understand how their efforts will help > When the PTA is deciding how to spend money raised, publicise the meeting and invite people to share their views >Draw up a short wish list in conjunction with school’s leadership team and ask parents to rate these in terms of priorities – this helps ensure the items parents ask the PTA to spend money on are realistic, required and achievable >When money has been spent, or volunteers have done something to improve the school, celebrate the achievements publicly and explain how the pupils have benefited >Talk to people - they are much more likely to help if asked personally rather than respond to a blanker letter/email. Use it as an opportunity to do some market research – if they don’t want to help, or to attend an event, ask what events they would prefer the PTA to hold >Ask the Headteacher to promote the PTA, when talking to parents. An endorsement from the head will go a long way.
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For more support and guidance visit pta.org.uk or call 0845 850 5460 Our thanks to Jane Galbraith, PTA-UK Membership Development Manager for compiling this article
PTA-UK is a national charity and membership organisation with over 13,7500 member PTAs in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Membership fees are based on the size of the school and start from £25 a year for schools starting a PTA. Membership provides a range of benefits and resources including £10 million subscription linked public liability insurance. Find out more by visiting www.pta.org.uk or contact the PTA-UK Advice Line on 0845 850 5460 / info@pta.org.uk Generic term for all forms of home-school associations including PTAs, Friends of and PAs
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Tarvin Pre-School & Day Nursery aims to provide a happy, warm, stimulating and secure environment so that your child will enjoy their time with them. Superb location on school grounds surrounded by fields and trees Flexible full days between 7.45am & 6pm Children from 2 years old Holiday Clubs French, Makaton & Forest Schools Come and visit us
Contact Lyn Jackson 01829 741011 E-mail: tarvin.preschool@btconnect.com www.tarvinpreschoolnursery.com
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Children have a right to an environment that facilitates their development, offering opportunities for learning and fun The nursery has a strong equal opportunities and inclusion policy, offering freedom from discrimination and appropriate facilities where possible for children with disabilities. Working in partnership with their parents, they aim to provide the best in early years education. Tarvin Pre-School & Day Nursery is situated in the grounds of Tarvin Primary School enabling them to benefit from a close link with the school. 62
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