Issue 16
Summer 2017
H
five s r e d n u e h ow to survive with t
Lots for Summer Holidays Lots on Local Family fun in your area from July to September
Lots on Weekly
Find your nearest toddler groups & under 5’s classes
FREE
WIN a FAMILY DAY PASS to National Forest Adventure Farm See page 2
South Staffordshire & Sutton Coldfield Distributing directly to 14,000 families in Stafford, Lichfield, Tamworth, Cannock, Burton and Sutton Coldfield
Great family fun for all Generations to enjoy together on our canal boat
The Promenade, Barton Marina, Barton under Needwood, DE13 8DZ
www.themugtug.co.uk
01283 711341
Lots for Tots South Staffs
Welcome to Issue 16...
@LfTSouthStaffs
Summer is finally here and whatever the weather we’ve got plenty of ideas to keep your little ones entertained.
Issue 16
Summer 2017
How to survive with the un der f
Lots for Summer Holidays Lots on Local
Family fun in your area from July to September
Lots on Weekly
Find your nearest toddler groups & under 5’s classes
Congratulations to Esme our Face of Firefly front cover star! This front cover shoot is just the start of a special year for Esme as Santa himself will be flying by the Firefly studio to meet her for a festive photo shoot to remember. Talking of prizes, get your summer off to a great start with a free family trip to the National Forest Adventure Farm. You’ve got to be in it to win it so make sure you enter their competition to win a family day pass (details opposite.) I hope you enjoy the events and activities we’ve collected for you. Share your summer fun on our Facebook and Twitter pages. If you contact any of the businesses featured in the magazine please tell them that you saw them in Lots for Tots. It helps us to keep bringing you all this fantastic information and inspiration every quarter.
Laura x
ive s
Laura Read- Editor, Lots for Tots South Staffordshire & Sutton Coldfield
FREE
Front Cover
WIN FAMILY DAYa to National PASS Forest Adventure Farm See page 2
South Staffordshire & Sutton Coldfield
Distributing directly to 14,000 families Lichfield, Tamworth, in Stafford, Cannock, Burton and Sutton Coldfield
Front cover winner of Face of Firefly 2017 fireflyphotography.co.uk
Subscriptions
If you struggle to get a copy of Lots for Tots, we now offer a subscription. The cost is £10inc p&p for 4 issues. Email: staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk
About Lots for Tots
78,000 copies of Lots for Tots in 5 editions distributed quarterly in October, January, Easter & July in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, South Staffordshire & Sutton Coldfield. Lots for Tots South Staffordshire is part of Lots for Tots Ltd. Also by Lots for Tots Ltd: East Midlands Baby and Toddler Show, Nottingham. Bump to Five show, Derby. Other franchise areas available.
Contact details
staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk Tel: 08456 436 874 www.lotsfortots.co.uk/staffordshire
Advertisements in this directory are not necessarily recommended or endorsed by Lots for Tots. Lots for Tots cannot be held liable for any inaccuracies in advertisements or issues arising with goods and services advertised and sold through the directory. All artwork is accepted on the condition that permission has been given for use in the publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions are fair and accurate. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form without prior consent from Lots for Tots. © Lots for Tots Ltd 2008-2017
3
Lots on Local...
July
1st July - 31st October
Gruffalo Spotters Trail
Cannock Chase Forest, nr. Rugeley, WS15 2UQ Download The Gruffalo Spotter app at home, then visit Cannock Chase Forest. Along the trail look out for clues which lead to footprint marker posts - point the app at these and watch Mouse, Fox, Owl, Snake and the Gruffalo appear before your eyes! It is aimed at younger children, but the whole family can enjoy following clues and collecting evidence. The trail is approx. 1 mile, you can find the start near the Go Ape cabin. Parking at Birches Valley Car Park. Parking Charges £1.50 for an hour, £4 all day. www.forestry.gov.uk/gruffalo Fri 7th - Sat 15th July
Lichfield Festival
Different venues around the city Lichfield Festival showcases the best of Lichfield’s historic and contemporary architecture and beautiful outdoor spaces. Prices vary, some events are free, please see website for details. Festival Box Office 01543 412121 www.lichfieldfestival.org Sat 15th July 10am-5pm
Alrewas Show
Daisy Lane, Alrewas, DE13 7DP One of Staffordshire’s best loved and most popular village shows. Local producers and farmers, vintage car and tractor enthusiasts help to put on fabulous displays alongside numerous main ring attractions throughout the afternoon including Horsemen of the Knight live action stunt show and Fun Dog Show. www.alrewasshow.co.uk Sat 15th - Sun 16th July 10am-11pm
Lichfield Outdoor Cinema
Market Market Square, Lichfield, WS13 6LH Lichfield’s Market Square will be converted into an all seated free open air cinema with 300 deckchairs. Over the weekend will be showing live sporting events including 4
the Wimbledon Finals, The British Grand Prix and also showing the following films: The Secret Life of Pets (Saturday morning), Beauty & The Beast (Saturday evening), The Lego Batman Movie (Sunday morning) & Mama Mia (Saturday evening). It’s absolutely free for everyone to come along and take a pew and enjoy! There’s street food and bars and lots more to keep you entertained. Fri 21st July 10am-12pm
Little Friends - Baby and toddler group Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, WS12 1TD Themed activities and events for babies and toddlers including crafts, baby area, water, sand & sorting play, outdoor fun, rhyme time, music and storytelling. £3 per child including snack and drink for adult. Booking is advisable. Tel 01543 877666 www.museumofcannockchase.org Sat 15th July - Mon 4th September
Pirates of the Maize Maze
National Forest Adventure Farm, Tatenhill This summer weigh anchor, hoist the Jolly Roger and set sail on a treasure hunting pirate adventure through our 10 acre Maize Maze! Follow the clues around the miles of pathways, bridges and viewing towers to discover Captain Del Gardo’s treasure. For little legs we have the shorter Mini Maze. www.adventurefarm.co.uk Sat 22nd July 9.30am-5pm
Kings Bromley Show
Crawley Lane, Kings Bromley, Burton on Trent, DE13 7JF All day, good value, family entertainment. Craft fair, music, dance, funfair, animal displays, children’s races, maypole dancing, treasured vehicles, competitive marquee, food stalls and bar. Tel: 01543 472120 www.kingsbromleyshow.co.uk
www.lotsfortots.co.uk/staffordshire
Pirates of the Maize Maze At National Forest Adventure Farm 15th July - 4th September This summer weigh anchor, hoist the Jolly Roger and set sail on a treasure hunting pirate adventure through our 10 acre Maize Maze! Follow the clues around the miles of pathways, bridges and viewing towers to discover Captain Del Gardo’s treasure. For little legs we have the shorter Mini Maze. Help Pirate Penny collect all the items she needs to cast off on a quest on the high seas. Deep in the maze, take part in Cannonball Chaos. Join the battle and fire cannonballs to protect Del Gardo’s ship as you take on enemy pirates!
Follow the exploits of Captain Del Gardo in two brand new live shows; Escape from Blackbeard’s Bay and From Bilge to Bow: The Capt’ns Tale. Learn the pirating skills you needs to join Del Gardo’s crew in Buccaneer Bootcamp. Cheer on your pirate rubber duck as it races down the water course to the finish line in our Pirate Duck Race. Don’t forget you can also meet and feed our farm animals, explore the outdoor Funfield and have fun in the huge indoor play area. Win a Family Day Pass! See page 2 for details.
T: 08456 436 874 E: staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk
5
Lots on Local...
July
Mon 24th July 1.30pm-3pm
Spark Babies - Summmer sessions Spark Springhill Centre, Springhill Academy, Mossbank Avenue, Burntwood, WS7 4UN Are you a new parent or going to be soon? Are you looking to meet others and find out what’s available for you and your little one in the local area? We’re holding four special sessions in the summer holiday on 24th & 31st July and 7th & 21st August. These sessions are aimed at pregnancy - 18 mths. There’ll be soft play, sensory toys and the dark den available for older babies. Refreshments available. £2 per child. No need to book. Tel: 0780076277 for more details www.sparkburntwood.co.uk Tue 25th July 11am-3pm
Wonderful World of Words Drop-in Workshops Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, WS12 1TD Every Tuesday in the summer holidays. Explore a different author each week, come in costume, make craft to take home and explore a host of unusual characters and locations. £2 per child. Also on 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd & 29th August. Tel 01543 877666 www.museumofcannockchase.org Tue 25th - 27th July 11.30am-4pm
Storytelling at Tamworth Castle
The Holloway, Tamworth, B79 7NA The storyteller will be in residence to tell tales of Knights, dragons, princesses and unicorns. Visitors are invited to come along dressed in their favourite costumes and listen to stories or have a go at telling their own. There will also be craft activities available for those who want to get creative. Adults £7.50, OAP £6.50, Child (over 5) £5.50, Child (2-4yrs) £3.50, Under 2yrs free. No Pre-booking necessary. Tel 01827 709626 www.tamworthcastle.co.uk
6
Wed 26th July – Thu 31st Aug 11am-5pm
Discovering Giant Tortoises
Erasmus Darwin House Beacon Street, Lichfield, WS13 7AD A special exhibition, kids activities and trails throughout the summer holidays in partnership with the Galapagos Conservation Trust. Free entry. www.erasmusdarwin.org Thu 27th July 10am-12.30pm
Charwood Childrens Centre Fun Day Charnwood Childrens Centre, Purcell Avenue, Lichfield, WS13 7PH Children’s arts & crafts, Baby Sensory, bouncy castle, Children’s entertainer and refreshments. Activities are free and aimed at 0-8 years old but all welcome. Tel: 01543 512024 Thu 27th July
Summer Fun at Sam’s House Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum, Breadmarket Street, Lichfield, WS13 6LG Puppet-making, masks and more – a different Theatre-themed hands on activity every Thu till 31st August. Pre booking is essential. Tickets £2. www.samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk Fri 28th – Sun 30th July
Big Family Festival
Dunton Hall, Sutton Coldfield, B76 0BA This 3 day camping festival offers fun for all the family featuring Dick & Dom, The Sooty Show, Basil Brush, an outdoor cinema, storytelling, sports, theatre, workshops, musical performances from the best tribute acts out there including, Rhapsody Queen, Foo5ighters, Top 10 Beatles, Black Magic Little Mix, Only One Direction Tribute and more. Day tickets start at £10 per adult, £5 per child and £1 per under-5 with a two adult + two child weekend ticket from £99 and with camping and parking from £148. www.bigfamilyfestival.co.uk
www.lotsfortots.co.uk/staffordshire
Face of Firefly Meet our cover star, winner of the Face of Firefly 2017 competition “Firefly Photography, based at Curborough Countryside Centre in Lichfield, is celebrating its tenth year in business, with its head studio based in Derby city centre and, after a fab year with Marley, we’re thrilled to be welcoming Esme as our Face of Firefly for 2017. Esme has enjoyed the first part of her prize, a front cover photo shoot at our studios for the wonderful Lots for Tots who we are, once again, very grateful to for supporting this competition and providing a front cover prize.
The real Santa (we’ve checked his beard and everything!) will be joining us at our Derby studio again, in December, and Esme will be invited to come and enjoy a very special meet and greet photoshoot as well as enjoy automatic entry to the finals of the National Portrait Awards (www. nationalportraitawards.co.uk) where she and her family could win £1000. To keep an eye on Esme’s year with us, our Face of Firefly competition for 2018, details on how to enter the National Portrait Awards or information about our special Santa photo shoots in Derby please follow us on FB: @fireflylfield”
T: 08456 436 874 E: staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk
www.fireflyphotography.co.uk
7
Lots on Local... July - August Fri 28th – Sun 30th July
Middle of Nowhere Music Festival Lower Drayton Farm, Lower Drayton Lane, Penkridge, ST19 5RE Packed with fun for the whole family, the 2017 Middle of Nowhere Music Festival has a great line-up of original and tribute acts spanning Blues, Rock & Country. Also throughout the weekend family fun farm, stalls, children’s craft activities, Maize Maze and much more. Tickets: Friday: £15.00, Saturday: £20.00, Sunday: £15.00, Children: (13-16) 50% off; (under 12) Free. Weekend inc optional camping: £60.00 per person 01785 330757 www.monmusicfestival.co.uk Sat 29th – Sun 30th July
Summer Family Fun at Churnet Valley Railway Kingsley and Froghall Station, Froghall, ST10 2HA Come and enjoy a ride aboard our heritage train, as our Children’s entertainers provide a selection of activities along the railway. www.churnet-valley-railway.co.uk Sun 30th July 12.30-5.50pm
Big Summer BBQ Family Fun Raceday Uttoxeter Racecourse, Wood Lane, Uttoxeter, ST14 8BD Enjoy some fun and games with your family whilst enjoying a great British BBQ! Family entertainment will take place in the Centre Course and will include a Burton Albion shoot out, Wildlife displays, The Van Buren Show, Derby Hoppers and many assault courses & inflatables! www.uttoxeter-racecourse.co.uk Sun 30th July 11am-5pm
Classic Car Show at Stafford Castle Newport Road, Stafford, ST16 1DJ A classic car treat and vintage fun for all the family. Classic, vintage and collectors cars on display, with trophies for best vehicle in class. Children’s games, quizzes and activities, including mini Land Rover rides. Vintage cycles, auto mart and craft stalls. Sponsored 8
by: RPH Motor Repairs Ltd. Free entry, car park £3. Tel 01785 257698 www.staffordbc.gov.uk/heritage Mon 31st July 10am-1pm
Toddler Colour War hosted by Ruby Doo Norton Canes Community Centre, Brownhills Road, Cannock, WS11 9SF You’re in for a summer treat. 1, 2, 3, 4 we declare colour war! Each team will be allocated a colour then war will be declared through a variety of fun, age appropriate games and interaction with the children. Ages 2-4 yrs only. £10 per child includes drink and snack. Parents must stay to watch the fun. Limited spaces available, booking essential. Facebook @RubyDooParties Mon 31st July - Fri 11th Aug 11.30am-4pm
Enchanted Castle at Tamworth Castle
The Holloway, Tamworth, B79 7NA Follow our marvellous trail through the Castle and see what magical adventures you encounter. Meet knights, help make the Giant’s armour, discover the wishing tree and look out for the mischievous pixies! Lots to do and see, expect to be enchanted. No Pre-booking necessary. www.tamworthcastle.co.uk Fri 4th August 10am
Little Saplings Sensory Play National Memorial Arboretum, Croxall Road, Alrewas, Burton upon Trent, DE13 7AR Following story time, children and accompanying adults will be given complete free-reign of our expanding and evolving array of sensory toys with the objective of encouraging creativity and multi-sensory experiences. All this takes place in our beautiful surroundings and with full access to our excellent restaurant and on-site facilities. For babies, toddlers and preschool children.£1.50. Also 1st Sept & 6th Oct. www.thenma.org.uk
www.lotsfortots.co.uk/staffordshire
Lots on Local...
July - August
Fri 4th August 11am
NCT Big Push sponsored walk Sutton Park, Park Road, Sutton Coldfield, B74 2YT (meet outside Visitor Centre) A 2k or 5k fundraising walk organised by NCT Sutton Coldfield to raise money for support services for postnatal depression. The walk will be followed by a picnic, weather permitting. Participants are asked to make an entrance donation of £5 (or £8 for 2 adults) and are encouraged to raise sponsorship. www.nct.org.uk/branches/sutton-coldfield Sun 6th August 12-4pm
Summer Family Day - It’s Magic! Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, WS12 1TD This years Family Day has a magic theme. Create your own magic tricks at the art and craft drop-ins. Watch the incredible Mr Potato and his magic show. Showcase your magical abilities in the ‘Magic Factor’ talent show. Plus puppet shows with Professor Clive, face painting, stalls, displays, music, games and much more. Free entry, small charges apply for some activities. www.museumofcannockchase.org Sun 6th August
Princess and the Pig Dorothy Clive Garden, Willoughbridge, Market Drayton, TF9 4EU There’s been a dreadful mix-up in the royal nursery. Priscilla the princess has switched places with Pigmella, the farmer’s new piglet! The kindly farmer and his wife believe it’s the work of a good witch. The ill-tempered King and Queen squarely blame a bad witch. It’s the sort of thing that happens all the time in fairy tales! Bring along your picnics, blankets, folding chairs & friends & family to enjoy this wonderful open-air production, filled with music, and puppetry! www.dorothyclivegarden.co.uk
Thu 10th Aug 10.30am-12pm
Rainbow Rhyme Disney workshop Streetly Community Centre, Foley Rd East, Streetly, Sutton Coldfield, B74 3HR Rainbow Rhyme host a Disney themed family workshop with arts & crafts and music! Children of all ages welcome. As a guide, arts & crafts activities are aimed at 2 to 7 year olds but the music is for everyone. £8 per child, siblings £5. Also keep your eye out for details of our second summer workshop, date and venue to be confirmed. Tel:07917 607008 www.rainbowrhyme.co.uk Fri 11th August 10am-12pm
Fun Time Fridays at The Brewhouse Brewhouse Arts Theatre, Union St, Burton upon Trent DE14 1EB For pre-schoolers and their grown ups. Join us for different messy art activities with movement and play. £3 per child, £1 for each additional sibling. Includes children’s drink and biscuit. Also 18th & 25th August. www.brewhouse.co.uk Mon 14th August 1-2.30pm
In The Fairy Garden
Spark Springhill Centre, Springhill Academy, Mossbank Avenue, Burntwood, WS7 4UN Come and join us for a one off fairy themed event with crafts, messy play, free play and a snack. Ideal for 6 months to 5 years. £3.50 per child and £1.50 for additional sibling. (Booking fee applies) Limited places. Please book your ticket in advance via our Facebook page. www.sparkburntwood.co.uk Sun 20th August 12-3pm
Spark’s 2nd Birthday Party Spark Springhill Centre, Springhill Academy, Mossbank Avenue, Burntwood, WS7 4UN Spark is turning 2! Come along and help us to celebrate. Fun for all the family with games, raffle,stalls, crafts, messy play, special guests and lots more. www.sparkburntwood.co.uk
T: 08456 436 874 E: staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk
9
Lots on Local...
August
Mon 21st August 10am-1pm
Family Colour War hosted by Ruby Doo Norton Canes Community Centre, Brownhills Road, Cannock, WS11 9SF 1, 2, 3, 4 we declare a family colour war! Why let the kids have all the fun? Work as a family to win medals for your team. Each team will be allocated a colour then war will be declared through a variety of fun games to suit all ages. £25 per family includes drink and snack. Ticket is for 4 people (must include at least 1 adult) Limited spaces available, booking essential. 07983 174755 facebook.com/RubyDooParties Sat 26th - Sun 27th Aug 11am-4pm
Sun 27th – Mon 28th Aug 10am-5pm
Steam Open Day at Claymills Victorian Pumping Station
Meadow Lane, Stretton, Burton upon Trent, DE13 0DA Fun for all the family - including activities such as: operating a steam engine, hands-on model making, children’s Victorian dressingup corner, time capsule ~ follow the rat trail, miniature steam engine rides, woodwork and woodturning demonstrations and learning how metals are made from stone! Light refreshments are also available, in addition to a second hand book stall. www.claymills.org.uk Mon 28th August 11am-2pm
Elford Scarecrow Festival
Bank Holiday Family Fun Day
Elford, nr Tamworth, B79 9DA The 8th annual Elford Scarecrow Festival promises to be bigger than ever with attractions for all the family- including a brand new childrens’ zone and very special aerial display. The festival is entirely in aid of local good causes and last year’s festival raised in excess of £15,000. Refreshments including Pimms & Beer Tent, BBQ and Cream Teas. Entry & parking is just £2 for adults, £1 for children, under 5’s go free. The route is buggy and wheelchair friendly. All proceeds will be shared between St Peters Church, Elford village hall and the Pathway Project supporting victims of domestic abuse. www.elfordscarecrowfestival.co.uk facebook.com/ElfordScarecrowFestival
Lea Hall Social Club, Rugeley, WS15 2LB Fun Day hosted by Happy Art with lots of great activities and stalls for all the family! Magician, bouncy castle, face painting, BBQ and a charity raffle for Leukaemia research. happyartstaffs@gmail.com facebook.com/happyartstaffs
Sun 27th – Mon 28th Aug 10am-5pm
August Bank Holiday Family Fun at The National Brewery Centre
Horninglow Street, Burton upon Trent, DE14 1NG Celebrate the summer in style with our bank holiday event. A selection of food and most importantly a fantastic line up of activities for all ages. Tickets: £6.00, Child: (under 16) Free, when accompanied by a full paying adult. www.nationalbrewerycentre.co.uk 10
Thu 31st August & Fri 1st September
Dinosaur World
The Regent Theatre, Piccadilly, Hanley, Stokeon-Trent, ST1 1AP Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World in this interactive new show. Grab your compass and join our intrepid explorer across unchartered territories to discover a pre-historic world of astonishing (and remarkably life-life) dinosaurs. Meet a host of impressive creatures, including the Tyrannosaurus Rex and Triceratops. There will also be a fifteen minute post show ‘meat and greet’ with the dinos! Tel 0844 8717649 www.atgtickets.com/shows/dinosaur-world/ regent-theatre/
www.lotsfortots.co.uk/staffordshire
Please mention Lots for Tots when contacting an advertiser
5 * entertainment. A variety of party packages to suit all ages, budgets and occasions. Choose Ruby Doo and we’ll bring the party to you!
07983 174755 @rubydooparties Nearly New Baby & Kids Sale
Specialist physiotherapy treatment for babies, toddlers and children at home.
Sunday 24th September 2.30-4pm
- Delayed Gross Motor Development - Coordination Difficulties
Excellent quality, pre-loved clothes, toys, baby equipment at a fraction of the high street cost
- Cerebral Palsy
Boley Park, LichďŹ eld
- Down Syndrome
www.mommasandshoppers.co.uk
- Muscular Dystrophy - Spina Bifida - Acquired Brain Injury
Book now for our Autumn-Winter issue covering October, November & December
Phone Laura on 08456 436 874 or email staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk
- Stroke - Post-Surgical - Biomechanical Problems - Musculoskeletal and Joint Pain Please get in touch about any other conditions.
T: 07884 281623 E: enquiries@threespiresphysiotherapy.co.uk www.threespiresphysiotherapy.co.uk
T: 08456 436 874 E: staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk
@LichfieldPhysio
lichfieldphysio
11
Lots on Local...
September
Sat 2nd September 11am
We Love Tamworth 2017
Tamworth Castle Grounds, Holloway, Ladybank, Tamworth, B79 7NA The Castle Grounds will be alive with fairground rides, a dog show, assault course, Tamworth’s strongest man competition, stalls and much more. There will also be a dedicated Children’s Zone featuring walkabout characters, mini zoo, inflatables, obstacle course, junior Gladiators, face painting, balloon modelling, craft activities and more. Entry to the Zone will be £3 per child, with adults getting in free of charge. www.tamworthartsandevents.co.uk Sat 2nd September 5.30-9.45pm
Lichfield Proms
Beacon Park, Lichfield, WS13 6QZ Now in its nineteenth year, the free family event brings thousands of people together from across the region to enjoy an evening of music, picnicking and a fireworks finale. The event will also feature activities for children, food and drink stalls. Children’s activities from 5:30pm, music at 6pm, main concert at 7:30pm. Free entry, small charge for parking. Tel 01543 308866 www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/lichfieldproms Sat 2nd September 11am & 2.30pm
The Sooty Show 2017
Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, Eastgate Street, Stafford, ST16 2LT Izzy wizzy let’s get busy! Sooty is back in a brand-new show with guaranteed giggles for the whole family! Direct from CITV, Sooty, Sweep and Soo head into town accompanied by TV’s Richard Cadell. Expect magic, music and mayhem with buckets full of audience participation. A spectacular treat for Sooty fans old and new - plus a chance to meet Sooty and Richard after the show! Tickets £12.50. Box Office 01785 619080 www.staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk
12
Sat 9th September 11.30am-1pm
Festival of Imagination: Storywalk at Stafford Castle
Newport Road, Stafford, ST16 1DJ Join Sarah Rundle, famed for her humorous and irreverent tales, for a family ‘storywalk’ around the grounds and Keep at Stafford Castle. Part of the first Stafford storytelling festival programme. Free entry. Tel 01785 257698 Sat 9th – Sun 10th September
Steam Gala at Chasewater Railway Chasewater Country Park, Pool Road, Brownhills, WS8 7NL Plenty to see and do with an intensive freight and passenger service and brake van rides. Our heritage centre and museum, oo scale model railway, gift & model shop and The Sidings tea room will be open at Brownhills West. Tel 01543 452623 www.chasewaterrailway.co.uk Sun 24th September 2.30-4pm
Mommas & Shoppers Nearly New Sale Boley Park, Lichfield Buyers get excellent quality, pre-loved clothes, toys, baby equipment at a fraction of the high street cost. Buyers admission £1.50. Kids free. www.mommasandshoppers.co.uk Sun 1st October 10am-3pm
Childrens Market at Penkridge Market Off A449 Penkridge, ST19 5AS A great day out for all the family. The market dedicated to children will feature a nearly new sale of children’s toys clothes and equipment, trade stands and craft stalls selling everything from toys and clothes to personalised gifts and keepsakes. There will also be plenty of activities to keep the children entertained including fun fair rides, bouncy castle, petting farm, craft activities and puppet theatre. Free entry for children and £1 for adults. For more info or if you are interested in booking a stall at the event you can contact us on 01785 714221. www.penkridgemarket.co.uk
www.lotsfortots.co.uk/staffordshire
December
Encourage your children to love reading this summer... Libraries across the UK are getting ready to introduce children to new worlds of facts and fiction through Animal Agents, the 2017 Summer Reading Challenge™, run by independent charity The Reading Agency. Across the school summer holidays, Animal Agents will introduce young readers to a variety of clever creatures, specially trained to use their skills and natural instincts to unravel mysteries. Animal Agents is illustrated by Tony Ross, illustrator of the hugely popular Horrid Henry series. Each year the Summer Reading Challenge to children is simple. They’re encouraged to read six or more books of their choice – fact books, joke books, picture books, audio books just
Library Sessions
Brereton Brewood Burton on Trent Penkridge Stafford Sutton Coldfield Uttoxeter
2.15-2.45 2.15-2.45 10.30-11 10.30-11 11-11.30 11-11.30 9.30-10
Mon Tue Thu Wed Tue Alt Tue/Fri Wed
Barton u N’wood 10.15-11.45 2nd Wed of Mth Heath Hayes 2.30-4 Thu Burntwood Burton on Trent Cannock Lichfield Rugeley
Tots Library Wilnecote
For more details visit summerreadingchallenge.org.uk
Barton under Needwood Burton on Trent
Play & Stay
Toddler/Tot Time (crafts)
The Summer Reading Challenge is open to all primary school children and is designed for all reading abilities. Schools work with local libraries and give out information to encourage children to take part, and most libraries run Summer Reading Challenge linked early years activity for pre-schoolers.
Toy Library
Term Time Only
Storytime (under 5’s)
as long as they are borrowed from the library – during the holidays. There are collectable incentives and rewards, plus a certificate for every child who completes the Challenge. Children can sign up at their local library from the end of June onwards and all materials are absolutely free.
10.30-12 9.45-10.30 10-10.45 11-11.45 10-10.45
Tue Wed Fri Fri Fri
9.30-10.30
Wed
Wed Wed
Baby Bounce & Rhyme (under 3’s)
Baswich Brereton Burntwood Burton on Trent Cannock Eccleshall Heath Hayes Hednesford Holmecroft Lichfield Norton Canes Penkridge Rising Brook Rugeley Shenstone Stafford Sutton Coldfield Tamworth Uttoxeter
T: 08456 436 874 E: staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk
2.30-3 Mon 11-11.30 Fri 10.30-11 Thu 10.15-10.45 Tue 11.15-11.45 Fri 10.30-11 Thu 10-10.30 Fri 9.30-10 Fri 10.45-11.15 Fri 10.30-11 Tue 11-11.30 Tue 9.30-10 Fri 10-10.30 Fri 10.30-11 Fri 10-10.30 Mon 10.30-11 Tue 10-10.30 Wed 9.30-10 every other Fri 11-11.30 Fri 10.30-11.30 Tue 13
Lots on Weekly...
Burton on Trent
Most classes are Term-Time only
Barton u Needwood Parent & Toddler
10-11.30am Mon Christadelphian Church, Park Rd
St James’ Parent & Toddler 9-11am Tue/Thu St James’ Church Hall
TinyTalk Baby Signing
10-11am/ 11.15am-12.15pm Wed St James’ Church Hall Free trial
Barton Toddlers 9.15-11am Thu
St James’ Church Hall
Branston Parent & Toddler 9.45-11.15 Tue Branston Village Hall Baby Sensory 10am/11.15 Tue Branston All Saints Church
Burton on Trent All Saints Parent & Toddler 9.30-11.30am Mon Church Hall, Branston Rd
Make it Monday 10am-12pm
Brewhouse Theatre FREE
Breastmilk Mummies 10am-12pm Mon
Breastfeeding Support
11am-12pm Thu Stay & Play 10-11.30am Fri East Staffs Children’s Ctr, Waterloo St
Polish Mums 1-3pm Mon/Fri Nature Tots 1.30-3pm Tue Harvey Girls (young mums) 3-5pm Wed Queen St Community Centre
Harvey Girls (young mums) 12.30-2.30pm Thu Riverside Church, High St
Stretton
Anslow Parent & Toddler
Baby & Toddler
1.30-3.15pm Thu Village Hall
10-11.30am Tue/Fri St Mary’s Church Hall, Hillfield Ln
TinyTalk Baby Signing
10-11am/ 11.15am-12.15pm Fri Marston’s Sports Club Free trial class
Draycott
Tots Corner Toddler Group 9.30-11.30am Wed Village Hall
1.30-3pm Tue Stretton Methodist Church
Parent & Toddler 2-3pm Fri
Uttoxeter Stay & Play 10-11.30am Thu
Uttoxeter Library, High St
Hilton TinyTalk Baby Signing
10.30 –11.30am Tue Hilton Village Hall, Peacroft Lane Free trial class
Winshill Stay & Play 10-11.30 Mon Harvey Girls (young mums) 10.30-12.30pm Tue
Chatter Tots
10.30-11.30am Wed
Moira
Dads 4 Dads Group
Baby Sensory
10am-12pm Sat Winshill Resource Centre
10am/ 11.15am Mon Moira Village Hall
Tums to Tots drop in
Rolleston on Dove Rolleston Playgroup
10-11.30am Tue/Fri 0-3.5yr Rolleston Club, Burnside
9.30-11.30am Tue
Winshill Mini Fun Factory 10-11.30am Wed Winshill Methodist Church
Tots n Dots 9.15-11am Thu Gospel Hall, Hawfield Lane
Stapenhill Jump for Joy 9.30-11.30am Mon
St Peter’s Church, Stanton Rd
Twins Group 10-11.30am Mon Harvey Girls (young mums)
Hill St Health Centre, Hill St
Short Street Toddlers 9.45-11.45am Fri 14
Stretton Pram Club
in the Clay Walton on Trent C of E Primary
St Mary’s & St Modwen’s 2-4pm Tue Toddler Group 10am-12pm Wed, Chatter Tots 1.30-2.30pm Wed Church Hall, Guild St
Short Street Methodist Chapel
Class & group details are correct at the time of going to print but are subject to change. Please check with the event organiser before setting out.
www.lotsfortots.co.uk/staffordshire
Please mention Lots for Tots when contacting an advertiser
Burton, Hilton & Barton under Needwood
Charlotte Wain 07779 245371 charlottew@tinytalk.co.uk www.tinytalk.co.uk/charlottew
Most babies learn best when they see , hear, feel, touch, taste and smell Welcome to the magic of B aby Sensory . It is a world filled with light shows, music, glowing bouncy balls, bubbles, bells, songs, rainbows, puppets and tickly feathers . Our multi- award winning sessions run throughout South Derbyshire and Staffordshire – For more information call Vicky on 0 7870 8 62364, email derby@ babysensory.co.uk or visit www .babysensory.com
T: 08456 436 874 E: staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk
15
Lots on Weekly...
Lichfield & Tamworth
Most classes are Term-Time only
Burntwood Bright Stars Playgroup
9.30-11.15am Mon Boney Hay Primary School
Hammerwich Toddler
10am-12pm/1-3pm Mon Burntwood Institute
Christchurch Under 5s
Activity Session
1.30-3pm Mon Martin Heath Hall
Emmanuel Toddlers
9.15-11.15am Tue Emmanuel Christian Centre
Fradley Toddler Group
(0-4yrs) 9.45-11.30am Wed
Little Lambs 10-11.30am Mon/Fri Fradley Village Hall Redwood Community Centre TinyTalk Baby Signing Spark Babies 10-11.30 Mon 10-11am Wed Free trial class (Pregnancy-Pre Crawling)
Tesco Extra Community Room
9.30-11.30 Mon/Fri
Jo Jingles
Childminder Drop in Spark Baby Bistro Breastfeeding Cafe
11.15am-12.15pm Mon
Grandparent’s Playgroup
1-3pm Mon DASH Discover Autism Support 7-9pm 1st Mon of mth Lunch Bunch 12.30-2.30pm Tue
Little Owls Baby Sensory (0-2 yr) 10-11.30am Wed
(3mth-walking) 9.30am Wed (mixed ages) 10.30am Wed Friary Grange Leisure Centre, WS13 7SQ
9.15-11.30am Tue/Thu Belgrave Fire Station Sensory Play 1-2.30pm Tue/ Fri Fun to Talk 1-2.30pm Wed Leyfield’s Children’s Centre, Masefield Drive
Jo Jingles
9.45am Tue (3mths-walking) Dosthill Boys Club, B77 1PQ
Fit Tots 1-3pm Tue Parent & Tots Group
9.30-11.15am Wed Sacred Heart Ch, Glascote Heath
Activity Session 12.30-2.30 Wed St Francis Church, Leyfields
One Fit Mama Exercise Class
11am Wed Green Room at Lichfield Garrick
9.45am Wed (baby class) 10.45am Wed (toddler class) Mile Oak Community Centre, B78 3NN
Jo Jingles
One Fit Mama Exercise Class
Story with Rory
(3mth-walking) 12.30pm Thu 9.45am Thu (baby class) Spark Bumps Pregnancy (mixed ages) 1.30pm Thu Falcon Lodge Methodist Church Evening Little Green Frog Cafe, WS13 6NF B75 7LB 7.30-9.30pm 1st Wed of mth 11.30am Thu (baby class) Stay & Play/Toy Library PANDAS Postnatal depression Harvest Fields Centre, B75 5TJ 9.15-11.45am Fri support 10-11.30am Thu Jigsaw Community Hub Baby Gurgles Sensory Play Horizon Single Parent Support 1-2.30pm Wed/Thu 9.30-11.30am Thu Baby Sensory Fun to Talk 9.30-11am Thu Spark Tots Messy Playgroup 10am/ 11.15am/ 12.45pm Fri Community Cafe 10am-12pm Fri (6mth-4 yrs) 12.30-2pm Thu Happy Art Messy Play Glascote Child’n Ctr, Hawksworth Midday Mayhem Young Parents 1-2pm Fri (Up to 25 yrs) 9.30-11,30am Fri Curborough Community Centre Dosthill Parent & Tots Group Spark Springhill, Mossbank Ave 9-11am Thu Dee Gees Saturday Club Dosthill Baptist Ch, Cadogan Rd (3-6 yr) 9.15-10.15am Sat Lichfield (7-12 yr) 10.30am-12pm Sat Mini Me’s Mother & Toddler Lichfield Garrick Theatre Childminder Drop In 9.30-11.30am Fri (fortnightly) 9.30-11.30am Mon Elford Village Hall Get Messy & Play 1-3pm Mon
International Women’s Group 9.30-11.30am Tue
Little Owls Baby Sensory Time
Tamworth
Whittington
Activity Session
9.15-11am Mon/Wed
Breastfeeding Support
Family Support Grp 9-11am Fri St Martin’s Church, Stonydelph
Tree Tots Woodland Playgroup
Old & Young Play
Fazeley Parent & Tots
10-11.30am Thu Whittington Village Hall
(0-2yrs) 10-11.30am Wed 11am-12.30pm Wed
(0-5yrs) 1.30-3.30pm Thu Friday Club 9am-12 Lichfield Twins Club 2-4pm Fri Charnwood Children’s Centre 16
9.30-11.15am Mon/ Fri Mill Lane Link, Fazeley
10.30–12 Mon, Fisherwick Wood
Whittington Baby & Toddler
www.lotsfortots.co.uk/staffordshire
Please mention Lots for Tots when contacting an advertiser
One Fit Mama Tamworth & North Sutton
Circuit style exercise class with special baby/toddler zones, enabling new mums to become fit & healthy without the need for childcare.
Contact Alison on 07581 057069 tamworth@onefitmama.co.uk www.onefitmama.co.uk/Tamworth Classes in Stafford & Fulford
07967 286271 leesemott@singandsign.co.uk www.singandsign.com
Our next issue is out in October covering Half Term Halloween Bonfire Night Christmas Promote your class, event or business here from as little as
£41.25 for 3 months including magazine & website listings
Contact Laura: staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk 08456 436 874
Craft & messy play for children aged 6 months to 5 years
Classes in Cannock, Lichfield, Penkridge & Rugeley Birthday party packages available
Contact 07974 079782 happyartstaffs@gmail.com @happyartstaffs
T: 08456 436 874 E: staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk
17
Lots on Weekly...
Stafford & Cannock
Most classes are Term-Time only
Armitage
Doxey
Happy Art Messy Play
Tuneful Tots 10-11.30am Tue
Bump & Baby 10am-12pm Mon Play & Stay 1-2.30pm Tue Toddler Group 1-2.45pm Thu
Sutton Centre
Ridware Rascals 10-11.30am Fri
Twins Club 12.30-2.30pm Mon
Armitage Village Hall
Ridware Village Hall, Uttoxeter Rd
Brocton Mother & Toddler 10-11.30 Wed
Brocton Village Hall
Cannock Bambinos Toddler Group
9.30-11.30am Mon/Wed/Fri Avon Centre WS11 1LH
Pirate Play @ SNAP Cannock
Any 2 hrs 10am-3pm Mon/Tue SNAP Playground, Pye Green Rd
Huntington Grandparents & Toddler Group 9.30-11.30am Thu Littleton Green Community Sch
Stay & Play 10-11.30am Fri Pye Green Community Centre
Cannock Chase Breastfeeding Support Group 1.30-3pm Mon FREE
Family Stay & Play
Play & Stay 9.30-11 Thu/Fri Family Focus 9.30-11.30am Thu
Great Wyrley
St Paul’s Church Hall
Landywood Children’s Centre
Hednesford SA Playgroup 9.30-11.30am Mon Salvation Army
Family Focus 9.30-11.30am Wed Our Lady of Lourdes Church Hall
Little Friends 10am-12pm 3rd Fri of Mth, Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Rd
Hixon
10.30-11.30am Thu (from Sept)
You Too Support Group
10am-12pm Fri Cannock Chase Children’s Centre
Jelly Beans, Bumps, Babies & Little Buddies 10am-12pm Thu Hixon Memorial Hall, High St
Norton Canes Baby Stay & Play
(0-12mth) 10-11.30am Thu Norton Canes Children’s Centre
Create & Play 9.30-11.30am Fri Create Community Hub 18
NCT Bumps n Babies 10-12 Mon Breastfeeding Group 1.30-3 Mon Amy’s Story & Play 1-2.30 Mon Stafford Twins Group
9.30-11.30am Thu Sing & Sign Thu 10am (7mth+) 11.15am (14mth+) 12.30pm (2mth+) Families First at Faraday Road
Cafe Tots 11am-2pm Mon-Fri Rising Brook Church
Berkswich Toddler 1.30-3pm Tue Methodist Church Hall Childminders Group
Rugeley
9.45-11.30am Wed/Fri
Meet at Rugeley Library
Mucky Pups Messy Play 1.30-3pm Wed
Treasure Seekers 1-3pm Thu Silkmore Children’s Centre
1-2pm Mon
Happy Art Messy Play
10-11am Wed, St Michael’s Church Rooms, Penkridge
Stay & Play 10-11.30 Tue 1.15-2.45pm Thu
Breastfeeding Support Group
11am-12.30pm Tue Postnatal Group 11-12.30 Wed
Childminder Stay & Play
Mon 9.45 (7mth+) 11am (14mth+) 12.15 (2mth+) Fulford Village Hall, ST11 9QT
1-2.30pm 1st Tue of month
Happy Art Messy Play
Living with Reflux 9.30-12 Wed Baby Daze 10.30-11.30am Thu Happy Art Messy Play
Sing & Sign
9.45-11am Wed
9.30-11.30am Tue
9.30-11.30am Wed
1.30-3.30pm Thu Waterhouses Bungalow
Development & Play
Buggy Walk 10.30-11.30 Mon
Grandparents Toddler Group
Stafford
Little Doves 9.30-10.15am Mon
1.15-2.45pm Mon/Tue
Jellie Tots Play & Stay
11am-12pm Tue Brereton Hub, WS15 1DF
Praise and Play 10-11am Wed
St Mary’s Church
Sticky Fingers 9.45-11.30am Thu Stafford Baptist Church
9.30-11.30am Thu Western Springs Children’s Centre Mumsnbabes 9.30-11.30am Fri Weston Village Hall
www.lotsfortots.co.uk/staffordshire
Lots on Weekly...
Sutton Coldfield
Most classes are Term-Time only
TinyTalk 9.45am (18 mth+), 11am (0-2yr) Mon Chester Road Baptist Church, B73 5HU Free trial class
Rainbow Rhyme 10-10.45am (mixed age) Fri 11-11.45am (baby session) Fri (call to book) Streetly Association, Streetly
Britwell Playgroup 9.30-11.30am Mon Wylde Green United Reform Ch
Rainbow Rhyme 10-10.45am Mon (mixed age) Leighswood Childcare, Broadmeadow, Aldridge Stay & Play 10-11.30am Mon (under 3’s) Emmanuel Church Hall, Birmingham Rd Parent & Toddler Group 10am-12pm Mon Falcon Lodge Chapel, Reddicap Heath Road Parent & Toddler Group 9.30-11.30am Tue/Thu Four Oaks Methodist Church B74 2UU Rainbow Rhyme 1.15-2pm (mixed age) Tue Brownhills Activity Centre TinyTalk 1.30-2.30pm (0-2 yr) Tue
Holland House Children’s Centre B72 1RE
Young Parents Group 1.30-3pm Tue
Mere Green Community Centre B75 5BT
NCT Bumps & Babies 10-11am Wed (Sling session) Quinto Lounge, Birmingham Rd B72 1QA
Holland House Buddies Breastfeeding Support 12.30-2.30pm 3rd Wed of mth Holland House Children’s Centre, Holland Road
Little Lights Baby & Toddler 9.45-11.15am Thu St Michael’s Church, Boldmere
New Hall Birmingham Buddies Breastfeeding Support 10-11.30am Thu New Hall Children’s Centre, Langley Hall Drive
The Milk Bar Breastfeeding Support 10-11.30am Thu
The Hub, Mere Green Community Centre, Mere Green Road, B75 5BT
Mother & Toddlers 2.15-3.15pm Thu Evangelical Church, Egerton Rd
Little Ducklings Stay n Play 9.15-11am Fri Brampton Hall Community Ctr, New Oscott TinyTalk Fri 9.45-10.45am (18mth+) 11am-12pm (0-2yr) Free trial class Four Oaks Methodist Church B74 2UU
T: 08456 436 874 E: staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk
19
*Hand Feed our Reindeer *Attend Elf School *Visit Santa in his Scandinavian Style grotto & pick a gift from his workshop
*Enjoy a Traditional Scandinavian Sleigh Ride *Join the Elves for Storytime *Visit our Christmas Shops
Exciting NEW Feeding areas, Shops & Entertainment for 2017 Pre-book your tickets online, visit
www.blithburyreindeerlodge.co.uk for information on dates, times, prices and to book New House Farm, Uttoxeter Road, Blithbury, Rugeley, WS15 3HY Hire a Reindeer for your Christmas Event—call 01889 504300