Kids Direct Warrington Spring 2013 by Kids Direct

R F ! E E

SPRING 2013 WARRINGTON & DISTRICT

ALL THE LOCAL INFORMATION PARENTS REALLY NEED

In this issue: Benefits of camping All things pets! Irlen® Syndrome Scouting

COMPETITIONS Family bowling hour at LA Bowl Family ticket to Waterworld 2 Tickets to Sid’s Show @ Parr Hall And loads of vouchers!!

Kids Direct

Spring 2013

elcome to the Spring 2013 edition of Kids Direct! The bulbs are peeking their heads above the ground, the evenings are noticeably lighter and the days (slightly) warmer Spring is here at last!

In this issue. . . The benefits of camping Page 8

As always, Kids Direct is your window and guide to the many exciting and fulfilling activities available to you and your family this spring, both indoors and outdoors! In keeping with the spring theme of all things new, Kids Direct has now launched a brand new website and Kids Direct Warrington has its very own facebook and twitter sites, so I am able to bring you more of what is local and relevant to you and your family. So don’t delay, please become a fan on Facebook or follow us on twitter! Wishing you all a wonderful Easter and Spring!

Choosing a pet that is right for your family Page 17

Irlen® Syndrome Pg 30

Michele x Kidsdirectwarrington

@kidsdirectwa

One of the best, affordable family fun days out, Pleasureland is the North West’s premier family-friendly amusement park. At Southport Pleasureland there’s no entry charge, so you pay only for the rides and amusements you choose and non-riding members of your party pay nothing at all – and that includes the family dog! Rides are from as little as £1 and there’s much, much more to do and see. With lots to see and do, rides to suit everyone and free entry, Pleasureland is one of the best days out for the whole family. Clean, bright and bursting with activities for everyone, from tots to teens, mums, dads and grandparents, the 32 acre park is home to around 100 rides, cafes, an indoor play area, amusements and bars, an arcade, performance areas and Southport’s premier F1 go-kart track. Battlefield Live offers the region’s premier laser shoot out environment, great fun for anyone from aged seven and above.

SEE PAGE 37 FOR 5 FREE RIDE VOUCHERS!!!

www.southportpleasureland.com 3

Kids Direct

Spring 2013

Great Days Out & Fun!

Kids Direct

Spring 2013

Kids Direct

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Party!

Spring 2013

Kids Direct

Let’s Party!

Would you like a FUN packed memorable party? 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. Book your adventure now: 01244 646 045. www.thecreepycrawlyshow.co.uk

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. Between Chester and Northwich

Spring 2013

Services for parents! Looking for something truly unique? Little Basket Shop based in the Hatters Centre on Horsemarket offers unique gifts and home accessories. Ideal for any special occasions, or as a treat for yourself. Browse through their range of quirky products and enjoy going back time and time again as they regularly bring out new and exciting ideas. They also stock a beautiful selection of bespoke wedding favours. Ask in store for details. 01925 670 751 0757 2606109

www.littlebasketshop.org.uk

My name is Ryan, I’m 15, when I’m older I want to be a music producer… Could you help Ryan’s dreams come true? Warrington Fostering Service are urging people to consider fostering a teenager, just like Ryan, during Foster Care Fortnight (16-26 May), a national campaign that raises awareness of fostering. The service’s changing lives recruitment campaign focuses on how fostering positively changes lives both for children and foster carers. This year’s campaign will focus on recruiting carers for teenagers as this is where the real need for the service is. Everyone knows that childhood and teenage years can be difficult. We can all remember feeling insecure and "misunderstood". But for a young person who has endured particularly distressing experiences at home and is now in foster care, it can be an extremely unsettling time. The Fostering Network, who organise the national Foster Care Fortnight campaign, estimate that 9,000 more foster carers are needed in 2013 alone to meet the diverse needs of children and young people coming into care across the UK. In Warrington alone, there were 232 children in care in February 2013 and only 98 foster carers. There are a large number of older children who, for many different reasons, cannot return home to live with family, and need long term foster families to provide them a loving home until adulthood. If you feel you could make Ryan’s dreams come true? Contact the fostering service now for a free information pack on 01925 444 100 or visit online at www.warrinton.gov.uk/fostering

Kids Direct

Spring 2013

Services for parents!

Kids Direct Order fantastic cards online or find out about setting up your own home based business (where there's no pressure or targets) call Caroline on 01606 892202 or go to: www.phoenixtrading.co.uk/web/carolineholmes Thinking of a change in career? Want to have more flexibility and spend more time with your children? “The School holidays used to be a major problem for me, I now have the flexibility and rewards of a part-time job - I work hard during the term and play hard during the holidays.” “Since starting my Kids Direct franchise I haven’t looked back…” For more information on starting your own Kids Direct franchise, call Nina on 0151 625 8608 for a no obligation conversation!

Spring 2013

Teacher's Pet - How can pets benefit your school and your pupils? "Placing companion animals in school curricula encourages the moral, spiritual and personal development of each child, bringing social benefits to the school community and enhancing opportunities for learning in various areas of the school curriculum" Rio declaration of the International association of Human Animal Interaction, Rio de Janeiro, 12 September 2001. There has long been an association between man and animals and over the past 30 years, scientists have become increasingly interested in the notion that 'pets are good for you'. Research has found that pets do promote a general feeling of well-being, and it is well known that happy children tend to be healthier children.

Pets are good for you!

All parents and teachers know the enthusiasm and engagement that animals can produce in children. Many school communities are enriched by this knowledge, introducing pets into schools in a number of imaginative and practical ways. Pet clubs, pet assemblies or pet days can help to nurture an understanding of life and the responsibilities of animal welfare in the individual child and the school as a whole. Pets can also provide a fun route into many curriculum areas. Animals fascinate children. Recent studies have shown that this interest can facilitate learning, have a positive effect on child development and be harnessed to improve human and animal welfare. Many diverse, sometimes surprising benefits have been recorded, both for mainstream children and for those with special needs. The therapeutic and educational benefits have been identified as follows:

School pets have been found to: ● ● ● ● ● ●

motivate pupils to think and to learn, as children have a high level of natural interest, enthusiasm and enjoyment of animals encourage a respect and reverence for life in pupils and thereby improve their relationships with other pupils, parents and teachers foster a sense of responsibility in children teach children to nurture and respect life lead to the development of hobbies / careers in animal care improve academic achievement

Teachers have also found therapeutic benefits for children with special needs. For example: ●

● ● ●

a calming effect on pupils, particularly those with behavioural or learning difficulties; improving behaviour and concentration, reducing stress and improving self-esteem encouraging expression and participation in more withdrawn children animals can help when working with the most vulnerable children educational improvements with low achievers

Pets in schools also have social benefits for the school community: ● ● ● ●

enhance the learning environment, creating a sense of security and family warmth for the pupils encourage the involvement of parents and the wider community in school activity help to promote the school as an important nurturing influence in the community reduce the incidence of truancy, vandalism and conflict through fostering a greater sense of community

Looking after a school pet Any involvement of animals in schools must promote good practice in animal care. It is very important that children are taught correct procedures in handling and caring for animals, and a school pet provides an opportunity to do this. Children should be encouraged to take a shared responsibility for the care of the animals, under direct supervision. They should only be given tasks appropriate to their ability. Encouragement and praise are important. At all costs, children must be helped not to fail, or feel inadequate in their pet care duties. Standards of care must be high - children learn through observation. For further information on how to incorporate a pet in school, please see www.nationalpetmonth.org.uk.

National Pet Month April 1 – May 6 2013 is back and all set to be bigger and better than ever as UK pet owners come together in a nationwide celebration of responsible pet ownership.

Animal fans from across the country are asked to show their support by staging and attending fundraising events for local pet charities, taking part in schools projects and competitions and helping spread the word on important pet ownership issues. So, whether you own a cute kitty, beautiful bunny or a cuddly canine, National Pet Month needs YOU to help celebrate the joys of owning a pet, help highlight key messages about good pet care and raise awareness and cash for all those amazing local pet charities. During National Pet Month 2013 there’ll be so much to see and do – a whole host of competitions for schools, pets and owners and all kinds of fun events taking place across the country which we want to hear about so we can include them on the NPM interactive map. www.nationalpetmonth.org.uk/events/. Become a supporter at nationalpetmonth.org.uk, or follow on Facebook www.facebook.com/NationalPetMonth and on Twitter @NatPetMonthUK.

Kids Calendar

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, details may change. It is advisable to phone the venue concerned to check dates, times and prices before setting out.

March

Sat 30th March - Mon 1st April Easter Crafts and Shopping Fair, Tatton Park.

Sun 10th Mother’s Day Lunch at Walton Wall.

Time: 10.30 am - 5pm. Tel: 01625 374400.

What better way of letting your Mother know how much you love her? Give her the "Walton Hall" experience. Let the first class hospitality team take care of your every need whilst you relax and enjoy the picturesque surroundings of Walton Hall & Gardens. Time: 12 - 4.30pm. Tel: 01925 262 908.

Wed, 13th Beginners Guide to the Night Sky, Walton Hall and Gardens Join local astronomer Michael Jones as he considers the wonders of the night sky. A hot meal (with vegetarian option) will be served during the interval before we venture outside to gaze at the night sky, weather permitting! Tickets priced at £8 and £4 must be purchased in advance from either the Pyramid box office or Walton Gardens Games Hut. For more information please contact Michael Jones on 07818 264311. Meet: at Walton Hall. Time 7 -9pm.

Sat 23rd March - Sun 1st September Beatrix Potter Display at Tatton Park Beatrix Potter (1866-1943), is one of Britain’s best known children’s writers, but she was not only talented with writing and illustrating her much loved stories, she was also a talented amateur natural scientist with a particular interest in fungi, as well as a keen farmer in her beloved English Lake District. Learn more in the Summer exhibition about her life and work.

Sat 23rd - Sun 7th April Children’s Easter Holidays, Bents Garden Centre With Face painting, fun quests and treasure hunts, your children are sure to be entertained! T: 01942 266300. www.bents.co.uk

Sun 24th NCT Nearly New Sale, Thelwall Parish Hall, Warrington

Sat 30th A Beatrix Potter Easter, Tatton Park Fun and exciting activities will be taking place across the park. See website for details: www.tattonpark.org.uk.

Sat 30th Willow Weaving, 3D Insect Workshop, Tatton Park, Knutsford Sarah Gallagher Hayes will give you expert tuition on how to create your own beautiful willow sculptures. Suitable for adults and children. Book via Sarah on 07889 507348 or email twigtwisters@aol.com. Time: 10am - 1pm. Cost £30.

Sat 30th - Sun 31st Easter Egg Hunt at Gullivers, Warrintgon Enjoy loads of Easter Activities around the site, in addition to all the normal rides and attractions. Don’t forget to make your Easter Bonnet before you come, and receive £1 off entry prices and will also allow you to enter the Easter Bonnet Parade, with prizes for the best bonnet! Tel: 01925 444 888.

April Mon 1st Lymm Duck Race, Lymm Dam This year, there will be an additional ‘Easter Food Fest’ on Henry Street car park – next to the youth and community centre – comprising a range of stalls offering food to eat on the day or to take home. This new feature, along with all the customary children’s entertainment, will be open from 10.30am. The Duck Race starts at 12.30. For further details see: www.lymmduckrace.co.uk.

Tues 2nd Easter Hunt, Delamere Forest

There are clothes, equipment and toys for babies, toddlers and children up to the age of six. Larger items such as buggies, high chairs and safety equipment will also be for sale for just a fraction of the retail price. Mums-to-be can even find inexpensive maternity clothes. For more information, or to register as a seller, call: 0844 243 6221, or e-mail: northcheshirenct@yahoo.co.uk.

The Easter Bunny has left some clues around the forest, can you solve the hunt and receive your Easter egg prize? Walk is 1.7 miles on forest paths, very muddy in areas. Suitable footwear is essential. Drop in anytime between 10am & 4pm - £4 per child.

Thurs 28th Children’s Easter Painting Activity, Bents Garden Centre

Join the Rangers on this springtime tour of the children’s zoo. If cupid’s arrow has found its mark we may have one or two new arrivals to introduce! Places are limited so please book in advance on 01925 601617 (option 2). Meet: at the zoo gates

Children can get creative with an Easter themed painting activity. Cost - £4.99, includes all materials. Time: 10 am - 5pm.

Thurs 4th Easter at the Children’s Zoo, Walton Hall & Gardens

Kids Calendar Fri 5th - Sat 6th Little Fun Fest, Redhouse House Farm, Altrincham Bingo the Easter Bunny, Alex Winter (star of Cbeebies), Baby Ballet Live Pirouettes, Mr Bloom (of Mr Bloom’s Nursery) as well as barrel train rides, stilt walking jugglers and so much more, makes this a funtastic weekend not to miss. See online for details: www.littlefunfest.co.uk.

Sat 6th Sid’s Show, Pyramid & Parr Hall See advert on page 7 for this and other productions and a fantastic chance to win tickets to Sid’s Show!! 13th

Sat Home to Roost, Tatton Park Learn all you need to know about keeping poultry in your own back garden. Includes information on chickens, ducks and geese. Learn more about feeding, housing, breeding, health and showing. Places must be booked in advance. Time: 10 am 12pm. Cost £18.

Sun 14th Ramblers Family Walk, The Moore Nature Reserve, aimed at families with young children. Activities to interest children in their surroundings. Accompanying responsible adult essential. Although it is part of the current Ramblers programme it is not necessary to be a member to participate. Contact details: Christine Masson 01565 633235 mob. 07828942631. Departure time 2pm. Meeting point - car park over Moore Lane swing bridge. Length approx 2 miles.

Sat 20th Lend a Hand, Walton Hall & Gardens Your park needs you! Join the Rangers and Friends of Walton Estate with practical tasks on the estate. A great way to make new friends and make a difference in the park. All abilities are catered for and as this is a drop in event you can stay for just as long as you like. Please wear old clothes and sensible footwear. This event will go on in all but the worst weather but if you’re unsure just give them a ring on 01925 601617 (option 2). Meet: At the Rangers office

Wed 24th Beginners Guide to the Night Sky, Walton Hall and Gardens Another chance to enjoy this series of lectures looking at the wonders of the night sky. A hot meal (with vegetarian option) will be served during the interval before we venture outside to gaze at the night sky – if weather permitting. Tickets priced at £8 and £4 must be purchased in advance from either the Pyramid box

office or Walton Gardens Games Hut. For more information please contact Michael Jones on 07818 264311. Meet: at Walton Hall

May Sat 18th Don’t Pull the Wool Over Your Eyes, Tatton Park Meet Tatton Home Farm’s flock of sheep. Learn more about how they’re looked after and keeping them. Meet the new born lambs and see spinners at work. Places must be booked in advance. Time: 10am 12pm. Cost: £18.

Sun 19th Sunday Afternoon Band Concert, Walton Hall & Gardens Time: 1 - 4 pm.

Sat 25th Beginners Bird Walk, Moore Nature Reserve, Lapwing Lane, Warrington This is a perfect chance for anyone new to birdwatching or with a passing interest in wildlife to learn about the variety of birds at Moore. Please take binoculars if you have them, although some pairs may be borrowed from the warden. Time: 10am.

Sat 25th - Sun 26th Sheep Shearing at Tatton Park See the sheep being sheared ready for the start of summer. Time: 1.30pm.

Sun 26th - Mon 27th The Great British Food Festival, Walton Hall & Gardens Bring your blanket……the picnic awaits! This year along with the wonderful food and drink festival they are also throwing a great big, traditional British summer party. There’ll be games and activities for the kids, a balloon race, bake-offs, bunting aplenty, excellent live music and of course a fantastic array of food and drink. Set in the grounds of Walton Hall Gardens this is the perfect recipe for a foodie day out for all the family. Time: 11 - 5pm.

Mon 27th - 1st June National Family Week Celebrate National Family Week at Birchwood Shopping Mall. See below for details of great family fun activities.

Mon 27th Family Balloon Modelling Fun!, Birchwood Shopping Mall, Warrington Join in the fun and let our talented balloon modeller create a balloon for each member of the family.

Kids Calendar Tues 28th Family Face Painting, Birchwood Shopping Mall, Warrington The expert face painters will be on the mall transforming little faces into any design they wish.

Wed 29th Family Fun and Games, Birchwood Shopping Mall, Warrington Working with Pete Pinnington, our families will be encouraged to join in with the fun and games on offer.

Wed 29th Viking Morning at Tatton Park Beware all who enter the Old Hall, for who will you discover at the Viking settlement? A fun-filled morning exploring the life of a typical Viking settlement, including outdoor cooking, storytelling, shelter building and animal tracking. Suitable for 8-12 years. Places must be booked in advance. Cost £9. Time 10.30 - 12.30pm.

Thurs 30th Story Telling, Birchwood Shopping Mall, Warrington Storytime is one of the best one to one time between families. Our professional storyteller will read short stories throughout the day, or extracts from their favourite family story. They could provide tips to parents on how to tell the ultimate bedtime story. We will also invite willing grandparents to come and share special times and memories from their childhood.

Thurs 30th Our Industrial Past, Walton Hall & Gardens Local Transport Historian Mike Jones is leading this series of walks through Warrington’s industrial past. At a distance of 4-6 miles the distance is easily walked by most people. At the time of going to print the exact route of each walk is unknown but can be obtained nearer the time by phoning Mike on 07818 264311. Please wear suitable clothing and footwear. Meet on the car park. Time: 7 -9 pm

Fri 31st Fancy Dress Competition, Birchwood Shopping Mall, Warrington Families will be invited to Birchwood dressed in their favourite fancy dress costumes. All families will receive chocolate treats and have their photos taken to be in with a chance of winning a great prize. Our Superman and Spiderman characters will also be at the centre interacting with families and showing off their special powers.

June Sat 1st Licensed Cartoon Character, Birchwood Shoping Mall, Warrington Mike the Knight will be at the centre ending the Family Week on a high!

Sat 1st - Mon 3rd Teddy Bears Picnic, Gullivers World, Warrington Bring your favourite teddy and receive £1 off your entry fee.

Fri 8th - Sun 9th American Civil War Society Recreation Weekend, Walton Hall & Gardens. Come join the 19th Indiana, company A of the American Civil War Society for a day of 19th Century living. Authentic living history camps, campaigners on patrol and even the occasional rebel can be found in several locations throughout the park all weekend. Firing displays will be held twice daily with commentary to explain the goings on. Fun for the whole family! For more information see www.acws.co.uk

Sun 9th Tree Identification, Moore Nature Reserve, Lapwing Lane, Warrington Learn how to identify trees by looking at their different shapes, their bark and their leaves. There will also be a talk about the uses of the wood and some mythology and folklore associated with each species. Time: 10am.

Sun 23rd Ramblers Family Walk, Northwich Woodlands Activities to interest children in their surroundings. Accompanying responsible adult essential. Although it is part of the current Ramblers programme, it is not necessary to be a member to participate. Contact details. Christine Masson 01565 633235 mob. 07828942631. Departure time 2pm. Meeting point car park for Carey Park next to recycling site; opposite side of road to Matalan. Length approx 2 miles

Please do become a fan on facebook or follow us on twitter to keep updated on new and upcoming events. kidsdirectwarrington kidsdirectwa

Drama, Dance & Music! “From their very first lesson at Presto Music, students as young as 4 are reading, understanding and performing real music notation on keyboards and piano.” FREE VIDEO - MUSIC LESSON FOR CHILDREN AGED 4 TO 6

Q A

:How can you entertain, educate and inspire a 5 year old all in one go? : Inspirational, modern music lessons.

Across my 20 years experience, I have enjoyed teaching the 4 to 6 year old age range more than any other. I attribute this personal reward to seeing how well the children progress in such a small time scale. By making the learning process fun and intuitive, children as young as 4 can understand and perform material that I was still struggling with when I was MUCH older than they are. A child’s perception of music is in its most rapid period of development between the ages of 4 and 6. Countless studies across the globe have proved that studying music assists with a child’s confidence and concentration. So too, their abilities in problem solving, self-expression and coordination are greatly improved. Due to its logical pattern-based nature, music education has even been proved to help with Maths! I see this development on a daily basis and I totally agree with those findings. Beat exists everywhere; from the beating of a heart to a walk in the park. By teaching a child the notation of these everyday rhythms, they can verbalise them. Once they are verbalised, they become tangible. If they are tangible, they can be performed with a solid understanding. This enables music to be communicated with true comprehension, which makes it far more fun. After all, music is a language. Rhythm is the fundamental building block of music. Our system teaches youngsters these vital musical components so they can go on to learn ANY instrument more easily.

You can also see for yourself the amazing progress our students make and the great fun they have in the process. At Presto Music School we teach children in a fun and lively environment. Music should be fun! Our students as young as 4 years old are reading, understanding and performing real music notation in their first lesson. Our new keyboard music book “PrestoLand” is specifically geared to children aged 4 to 6. It is the product of many years of experience in teaching WITH children, not teaching AT them. The book and accompanying lessons encapsulates easy to follow pieces, fun tunes, along with all the benefits of learning an instrument. You and your little ones can try all this for yourself by joining us for a FREE introductory lesson. Simply call 01925 577715 to book and we will have your children playing keyboard in that very first lesson. Should you wish to continue, prices start from just £45 per month for a weekly half hour keyboard lesson for 4-6 year olds. These sessions are with one of our inspirational and fully trained teachers. We look forward to meeting you.

www.PrestoMusicSchool.co.uk

Kids Direct

Spring 2013

Drama, Dance & Music! Welcome to the magical mysteries of "Stagecoach Parties" where your child will be taken on a roller coaster ride through their imagination and land them safely back home with some amazing party memories! Stagecoach understands that with the increasing demands on parents, juggling the pressures of work and family life, time is of the essence. Therefore Stagecoach Children's Parties provide a way to remove the stress from what should be a day of celebration for everyone, and allow you to sit back, relax and let them do all the work! You chose the date, time and the place and they will come to you either at your home, if space permits, or to a hired venue. Some Stagecoach party providers also host parties from their venue at the weekend - please ask directly for further details. Stagecoach Parties are packed full of fun, lively party entertainment including dramatic games, fabulous songs and fun for everyone! They are suitable for children aged 4 - 16 years and each party is specifically tailor-made for each age group. For more information or to book your Stagecoach party then please contact Liz on 01925 756834 or email warrington @stagecoach co.uk. Whether they want to be fairies, princesses, pirates or detectives, there's a Stagecoach Party for everyone.

Kids Direct

Spring 2013

Kids Direct

Sports

Kids Direct 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. Our 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.’

Spring 2013

Kids Direct

Sports

Rugbytots® is the first of its kind, a specifically designed play programme, using the multiple skills of rugby, to aid in the development of young children. It has been designed to develop a child’s physical, psychological and social attributes, as well as gently encouraging specific rugby skills. Our aim is to ensure that children enjoy their time at Rugbytots in a safe and fun environment. Classes are split into two age groups,:2 to 3 ½ years This class has been developed to start encouraging children to use core skills like balance, agility and co-ordination. It is also important that children of this age begin to develop social skills, and we promote these by encouraging Rugbytots to share, take turns and work together. We use multi-coloured foam balls and cones to ensure the children's safety at all times. The 30 minute parent participated session includes passing, catching, try scoring, cone kicking, and games involving giant rugby balls. 3 ½ to 5 years The class lasts 45 minutes, and has been developed to build on the basic motor skills learnt and to start looking at the more specific skills used in Rugby. Our specifically designed games and tasks teach children to find space, pass the rugby ball backwards, score a "well worked" try and much more. We use midi size rugby balls for this class so the children can get used to the weight and feel of a proper ball. For more details, please call 0845 3133255, email Michele@rugbytots.co.uk, website: www.rugbytots.co.uk. Grappenhall Karate club has been running classes in Karate for children from 7 years old to adults for over 20 years. Classes are on Wednesday evenings from 6.30pm 8.00pm, prices just £3.00 per session. If you are interested in learning the art of Karate, please contact Mike Strawbridge on 01925 602780 or look on the web site www.grappenhallkarateclub.com.

Cirkids Sessions: Age 2.5 to 6 years Lymm Methodist Church Hall 10;00am - 10:45 am 11:15am - 12:00 noon Booking now required for sessions. Free Taster. Contact Lorna 07595 837875.

Barbara McCoy, from Face 2 Face Tuition shares with us her knowledge and experience of Irlen® Syndrome (Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome). “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.

“It is now estimated that approximately 15% of the population suffer from the 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 During the second year of my syndrome; some may also have Dyslexia, but not all do. Masters course, I was shockingly diagnosed, at the It is estimated that just 10% have Dyslexia. She also age of 40, with Irlens®. My tutor was amazed to see that noticed that some clients with Specific Learning I have got this far Difficulties (SpLD) may have academically without being diagnosed. With hindsight, I been mislabelled. can see similarities with Diagnosticians and myself and my boys, as we screeners are now in 24 have to reread many times countries fitting over for information to ‘sink’ in. 100,000 children with Irlen® We have to print it off and spectral filters and millions read again and we suffer from fatigue when reading. It use appropriate screenedfor coloured Irlen® overlays. can be inherited and so my Autistic son and my eldest son who has SpLD, will now People who have Irlen® Syndrome have a visualbe tested too.

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.

An example of how people with Irlen® Syndrome may see text

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. * 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. 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.

I am able to 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!”

Next issue, Barbara will discuss how the lenses assist with improving the symptoms of Irlen® Syndrome. See page 37 for a super discount offer! Useful information: Barbara McCoy face2facetuition@hotmail.co.uk 0781 4044390 www.irlen.org.uk Bratty-Cat, Binky-Roo and Snooze Bear by Susan R Smith Jamie Lee and the Magic Glasses by Jay Luthy.

Kids Direct

Spring 2013 Moving to the new/next room

Do you remember how you felt the last time you started a new job, moved to a new house or even went on holiday to a new place? These feelings of uncertainty, excitement and trepidation are the same for children coping with key transition points throughout their lives. The process of how and when a child moves from one room to the next is decided on an individual basis and only takes place when the key person, the parent and most importantly the child, feels they are is ready to do so. Once the important discussion has been held between the key person and the parent and they are in agreement about the date for the child to move up to the next room the process begins. Once your settling in sessions have been arranged a meeting will take place with your child’s current key person, the new key person and yourself. This meeting gives you the opportunity to be introduced to your child’s new special person and time to ask any questions you may have regarding the move. It also gives you time to familiarize yourself with the layout of the room and the other staff as well as where to put your child’s belongings. We understand it is the small things that make the biggest difference. The first visit to the new room will be with the key person accompanying your child and introducing them to the new staff, new children and difference in the environment. The key person will stay with your child throughout this visit. For the second stage the key person will stay with your child for a shorter period of time (length depending on child). The third and fourth visits to the new room are longer, and the key person will take the child to the new room and leave when your child is settled so they become used to the room and bond with their new key person. During these settling in sessions you will be given a more detailed handover at the end of the day informing you of exactly how your child has got on in their new surroundings. After your child has moved to the new room, we will ask for your feedback regarding the whole experience to ensure continued improvements are made to this important part of your child’s transition.

Education & Childcare Junior Sudoku

How to play

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 2x3 box contains the numbers 1 through to 6 with no repetition!

2 3

2 1

6 3

Kids Direct

Spring 2013

VOUCHERS FACE2FACE TUITION Free half hour advice! Free half hour trial session for dyslexia interventions on a Monday night. 0781 4044390

face2face.tuition@hotmail.co.uk

Book Review Here is a great selection of books for all you pet lovers!

Princess Poppy Puppy Love by Janey Louise Jones is a beautifully illustrated book, part of the Princess Poppy series. When Poppy visits the farm and finds 10 new puppies she is so excited and secretly wishes one of them will be hers, will Poppy’s dream come true? Age 3+.

The Great Pet Sale by Mick Inkpen is a wonderful story book all about a visit to the pet shop and the very difficult decision of choosing a pet, a funny book with For older readers, Daisy and the Trouble with Kittens by Kes Gray, a great twist at the end. Daisy is so looking forward to a Age 2+. holiday in Spain, going on a plane, I Can Do It – Look After My Pet helps very young playing in the sun and making friends with five cute kittens, the children adapt to a new pet with simple words trouble is Daisy doesn’t want to and large lift the flap pictures this book is both leave them behind. Age 6 fun and educational. Age 2+. Bobs Best Friend by Simon Bartram, Bob, the man on the moon, is feeling very sad because his friends are visiting a pet show on Pluto and he’s all alone with no space tourists for company. Bob needs his own very special friend and this is the story of how Bob finds Barry the dog. Age 3+.

More great animal reads can be found in Michael Morpurgo’s books, why not try Shadow, Born to Run, Dancing Bear or the very popular War Horse, after which the film was made. Murpurgo is a fantasic storyteller who creates exciting, thrilling and often moving plots. Age 9+

PLEASE NOTE: Forget-me-not Toy and Book Store is moving to new premises on the 9�� March! Their new address is: The Old Telephone Exchange (opposite The Cherry Tree pub), Common Lane, 01925 765 187 Culcheth, WA3 4HA www.toysandbooks.co.uk

Kids Direct Warrington is owned, operated and published under licence by Michele Quaresma. Printing: Delmar Press Kids Direct is owned by Megan Kneale, Registered Trademark no 1468409 We believe all information to be correct but do not endorse any products or services. The views expressed in Kids Direct are not necessarily those of the publisher. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. The publisher cannot be held responsible for any breach of copyright arising from artwork supplied by its contributors and clients. Reproduction, in whole or in part, of any of the text, illustrations or photography without the express permission of the publisher is strictly forbidden. Terms of all competitions in this magazine: Prize winners will be drawn at random. No cash alternative to prizes will be offered. Any personal data will be processed in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998. It will only be used for the purpose of notifying outcomes of the prize draw(s). Your personal information will not be shared with organisations external to Kids Direct unless a third party is issuing the prize.

Next issue due out: July 2013

WIN A COPY OF DAISY AND THE TROUBLE WITH KITTENS Simply answer this question: Which toy and book store provides the Kids Direct Book Review? Email your answer to: kidsdirect@hotmail.co.uk Competition closes: 12 April 2013

Congratulations to our Winter competition winners! Tatton Park: Gemma Worrall Coffee au Clay: Emily Jackson Gullivers: Tracy Driver Waterworld: Katie Cannon Pyramid & Parr Hall: Helen Purkins

Kids Direct

Spring 2013 STAGEPRO ACADEMY IS EXPANDING!

2013 Brings exciting times for the people of Warrington as StagePro Academy is expanding in a big way! With the new fully refurbished studios due for competition in April, you can expect the very best in facilities, top quality studios, the best services and a huge array of classes ranging from performing arts, dance classes to music tuition and singing lessons. Now with 3 dance teams, a whole performing arts academy, extensive dance class timetable, 100’s of 1 to 1 singers and over 350 students coming through the doors each week, it’s time to expand into the new kitted out studios which aim to be the biggest in the North West. In conjunction with the new StagePro Studios, memberships have been introduced and this is providing unbeatable value for money, security and the best opportunities for students attending whether it is for fun or higher education. Simply select a preferred membership level and attend ALL suitable classes with no additional costs. Anyone signing up to Stage School gets ALL the other classes FREE !! The brand new classes and routines all start in March so it’s the perfect time for anyone to join. Reserve your place today and start in March to avoid disappointment. You can find out more about StagePro Academy by visiting www.stageproacademy.co.uk or follow them: facebook/stageproacademy or on twitter: @stageproacademy. Frankie and Bennys Warrington have now sponsored StagePro Academy and there are going to be some incredible things planned for the very near future so they will keep you posted.

Kids Direct

Spring 2013