Lots for Tots South Staffordshire and Sutton Coldfield issue 16

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