Lots for Tots South Staffordshire and Sutton Coldfield issue 21

Issue 21

Autumn-Winter 2018

H

five s r e d n u e h ow to survive with t

Lots for Halloween & Christmas Lots on Local

Family fun in your area from October to December

Lots on Weekly Find your nearest toddler groups & under 5’s classes

FREE

10% off at The Alphabet Gift Shop

South Staffordshire & Sutton Coldfield

Distributing directly to 14,000 families in Stafford, Lichfield, Tamworth, Cannock, Burton and Sutton Coldfield

THE

ALPHABET GIFT SHOP

The personalised gift specialist

Gorgeous Personalised Gifts & Fabulous Food & Drink

10%

discount with this leaflet!

(VALID UNTIL DEC 2018)

44 Station Road, Mickleover DE3 9GH Tel: 01332 513033 9-10 Union St, Burton DE14 1AA Tel: 01283 749933

www.thealphabetgiftshop.co.uk

Barton Marina, Barton under Needwood, www.themugtug.co.uk Tel: 01283 711341 2

OPEN

For Breakfast, Lunch and Afternoon Tea

at Mickleover & burton

Mercia Marina, Willington Tel: 01283 617567

www.lotsfortots.co.uk/staffordshire

Lots for Tots South Staffs

Welcome to Issue 21...

@LfTSouthStaffs

Autumn is upon us and with it comes the opportunity for seasonal family fun and the anticipation of the festivities to come.

Issue 21

Autumn-Winter 2018

How to survive with the un der f

ive s

Lots for Halloween & Christmas Lots on Local

Family fun in your area from October to Decemb er

Lots on Weekly

Find your nearest toddler groups & under 5’s classes

10% off at The Alphabet Gift Shop

FREE

South Staffordshire & Sutton Coldfield

Distributing directly to 14,000 families Lichfield, Tamworth, in Stafford, Cannock, Burton and Sutton Coldfield

This issue is full of inspiration for things to see and do with your tots from October all the way to Christmas. There’s spooky fun aplenty, fantastic fireworks and of course the chance for a memorable meeting with Father Christmas. You can even experience the North Pole without leaving Staffordshire at the National Forest Adventure Farm!

Front Cover

If you’re looking for some extra special gifts for Christmas then we’ve got you covered.

The Alphabet Gift Shop in Burton on Trent are offering Lots for Tots readers a fantastic 10% discount (see opposite page for details.)

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.

I hope you enjoy the events and activities we’ve collected for you. 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 every quarter.

Laura x

Laura Read- Editor, Lots for Tots South Staffordshire & Sutton Coldfield

www.perfectposesphotography.co.uk Lots for Tots readers get 10% off childrens portraits.

Subscriptions

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 2008-2018

3

Lots on Local...

October

Sat 20th October 10.30am-12.30pm

October Wildlife Watch

National Memorial Arboretum, Croxall Road, Alrewas, Burton upon Trent, DE13 7AR This month we’ll be discovering what small mammals can be found in the Arboretum.

Parents / guardians must remain with their children at all times. Session is held in a covered Discovery Shelters so it’s important children are appropriately dressed. £1.50 per child, pre-booking essential.

Also 17th Nov & 15th Dec. www.thenma.org.uk Sun 21st October 3pm

Goldilocks and the Three Bears Brewhouse Arts Centre, Union St, Burton on Trent, DE14 1AA Special Preview. Hiccup Theatre serve up a brand new version of this classic tale with bear-sized helpings of original live music, amazing puppetry and brilliant story telling.

Hilarious and heartwarming, it’s ‘just right’ for the entire family! Suitable for age 3+ (55 minutes). www.brewhouse.co.uk Wed 24th October 10am-12pm

Nature Tots

Wolselely Centre, Wolseley Bridge,ST17 0WT Fun nature themed activities for under 5s and their carers. Each session has a different natural theme and includes crafts, outdoor exploration, story-time and free play. £5 per child, £3 for additional siblings. Booking recommended.

Also on 14th & 28th November.

Tel 01889 880100 www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk/events 24th-31st October 5-8pm

Halloween Steam & Scream Statfold Barn Railway, Ashby Road, Tamworth, B79 0BU Kids & Adults dress up in your scariest Halloween costumes and join us for our Halloween Steam & Scream trains!

Frequent trains will run from Statfold Junction to our Round House where there 4

will be fun and entertainment for all. Suitable for all ages. Children £7.50 (under 3s free) & adults £10. Tickets available online. www.statfoldbarnrailway.co.uk Wed 24th October 11am-4pm

Halloween Hands On Horror

Stafford Castle, Newport Rd, ST16 1DJ Creepy creations ‘drop in’ craft activities £2 per session. www.staffordmuseums.co.uk/events 25th-27th & 29th - 31st October 5-7pm

Middleton Hall - Open by Candlelight

Middleton Hall, Tamworth, B78 2AE Come and see Middleton Hall lit by candles.

There’ll be Halloween craft activities, games for all ages and we’ll be telling spooky stories about the ghost that is said to haunt the Hall.

Visitors of all ages are invited to dress up. The most terrifying looking visitor will win a prize each night! Adults £5.50, under 18s free. www.middleton-hall.co.uk Thu 25th October 4.30-6.30pm

Banger Night

Silkmore Primary Academy, Exeter St, Stafford, ST17 4EG A fun filled night of bonfire fun! Professional firework display, fire performer, stalls, games and refreshments. Entry £1.50 adults, £1 children (under 1s free). Gates open 4.30pm. www.facebook.com/silkmoreacademy 26th October - 4th November

Halloween Spooktacular at the National Forest Adventure Farm

Tatenhill, Burton on Trent, DE13 9SJ Hair raising fun at the Farm. Pick a pumpkin from our patch, Broomstick Training, Scare School, Mummy Maze Hunt and a Haunted House!

Tel 01283 533933 www.adventurefarm.co.uk

www.lotsfortots.co.uk/staffordshire

Halloween Spooktacular At National Forest Adventure Farm 26th October - 4th November This October term holiday, enjoy some hair raising fun at the National Forest Adventure Farm’s Halloween Spooktacular.

Take the tractor and trailer ride to the Pumpkin Patch and children (aged 2 and over) can pick a pumpkin to take home and carve.

Learn how to terrify your friends and family at Scare School! Pick up the skills you need to pass your flying

test at Broomstick Training! Hunt in the maize maze to find the hidden mummies.

Also dare you enter the spooky haunted houses? Listen to toetingling tales and learn spells to turn your parents in to frogs! *Pumpkins subject to availability.

Tel 01283 533933 www.adventurefarm.co.uk

T: 08456 436 874 E: staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk

5

Lots on Local...

October

Sat 27th October 10am-4pm

Halloween Heebie Jeebie

Ancient High House, Greengate Street, Stafford, ST16 2JA Children’s drop in craft workshops. Join the funny bones to build your own skellywag, then watch him dance! £2 per session. www.staffordmuseums.co.uk/events Sat 27th October 5-8pm

Children’s Halloween Evening Tamworth Castle, Tamworth, B79 7NA Get dressed up in your spookiest costume and enjoy the ghostly goings on around the Castle. Free pumpkin lantern for all paying children (for health and safety reasons pumpkin

lanterns can only be lit once outside the Castle building.)

Timed slots every 7 minutes from 5-8pm.

Adults £8, over 3yrs £6 (with pumpkin) & under 2s free (no pumpkin). Pre-booking essential. Tickets from Tamworth Tourist Information.

Tel 01827 709618 www.tamworthcastle.co.uk

Sat 27th - Sun 28th October 10am-5pm

Steam Open Day at Claymills Victorian Pumping Station

Meadow Lane, Stretton, Burton on Trent, DE13 0DA Fun for all the family including minature steam engine rides, demonstrations and ‘follow the rat’ trail. Light refreshments available. www.claymills.org.uk Sat 27th - Sun 28th October 11am-4pm

Halloween Hands On Horror

Stafford Castle, Newport Rd, ST16 1DJ Follow the pumpkin trail and make a paper pumpkin. Children’s drop in workshops. £2 per session. www.staffordmuseums.co.uk/events Sun 28th October

Tabby McTat

Lichfield Garrick, Castle Dyke, WS13 6HR Interwoven with original songs, Tabby McTat is the heart-warming tale of friendship and loyalty from the team behind Tiddler and 6

Other Terrific Tales. Suitable for children and families of all ages.

Tel 01543 412121 www.lichfieldgarrick.com Sun 28th October 4.30-7pm

Family Halloween Party

Burton Town Hall, King Edward Square, Burton on Trent, DE14 2EB A spook-tacular Halloween themed party with competitions, disco, bouncy castle and face painting. Snacks and drinks available.

Tickets £5, under 2’s free. Book online. www.eaststaffsbc.gov.uk/burton-town-hall Tue 30th October 11am-1pm

Spooky Spiders drop in craft session Kingsbury Water Park, Bodymoor Heath, Sutton Coldfield, B76 0DY Drop in to make spooky spiders or maybe some cute ones. Take them out at Halloween and scare someone! £2.50 per child.

Tel 01827 872660 www.countryparks.warwickshire.gov.uk Tue 30th October 11am-3.30pm

Spooks and Spells

Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Rd, Hednesford, WS12 1TD Join us for a freakishly fun day! Includes timed art slot to make spooky crafts, bats & spiders face painting, make a glowing wand in the spell shop and outdoor haunted trail. quiz. £4.50 per child, please book in advance.

Tel 01543 877666 www.museumofcannockchase.org Wed 31st October 1pm, 2pm & 3pm

Halloween Storytelling for Families

Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum, Lichfield, WS13 6LG With three storytellers telling scary tales and spooky stories in an eerie witches’ lair, it’ll be an exciting interactive session for all ages. Dress up if you like, it’ll add to the fun!

Children must be accompanied by an adult. £4, booking essential.

Tel 01543 264972 www.samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk

www.lotsfortots.co.uk/staffordshire

Lots on Local...

Wed 31st October 11am-4pm

Halloween Heebie Jeebie

Stafford Castle Newport Rd, ST16 1DJ Join the funny bones to build your own skellywag – then watch him dance!

Children’s ‘drop in’ Halloween workshops. £2 per session. www.staffordmuseums.co.uk/events Wed 31st October 2pm

Family Pumpkin Carving Workshop Lichfield Garrick, Castle Dyke, Lichfield, WS13 6HR Whether your aim is to create a scary, funny or friendly face, this workshop is an exciting opportunity to embrace your spooky Halloween spirit. All materials will be provided. £8 per child, parents go free.

Tel 01543 412121 www.lichfieldgarrick.com Wed 31st October 10.30am-12pm

Rainbow Rhyme Halloween Workshop Streetly Association, Foley Rd East, Streetly, Sutton Coldfield, B74 3HR A fun morning of Halloween crafts & live music ideal for children from 1 to 7 years (ages as a guideline only). Get in touch with Sarah to book as places are limited! Cost £8, siblings £5. Tel 07917 607008 sarah@rainbowrhyme.co.uk www.rainbowrhyme.co.uk Wed 31st October 11am-3pm

Halloween Drop In

Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, WS12 1TD Creepy crafts drop-in. Make hanging bats, witches on broomsticks and wrap your own mummy. No need to book, just turn up. £2.50 per child (for 1 hour of craft making).

Tel 01543 877666 www.museumofcannockchase.org Thu 1st November 11am & 2pm

Half Term Fun!

Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum, Lichfield, WS13 6LG Our popular hands-on arts and craft activities for the school holidays are perfect

October-November for a session of family fun. £2, booking in advance advised. Tel 01543 264972 www.samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk Thu 1st November 11am-3.30pm

Fantastic Beasts

Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Road, Hednesford, WS12 1TD Unicorns, dragons, mermaids and yetis are just some of the Fantastic Beasts we’ll be exploring today. The day includes a timed art slot to make crafts and art and outdoor beast footprint trail.£4.50 per child, please book in advance. Tel 01543 877666 www.museumofcannockchase.org Fri 2nd November 10.30am-12pm or 1-2pm

Little Saplings Sensory Play

National Memorial Arboretum, Croxall Road, Alrewas, Burton upon Trent, DE13 7AR Following story time, children and their carers will be given free-reign of our array of sensory toys with the objective of encouraging creativity and multi-sensory experiences. For babies, toddlers and preschool children.£1.50 per child.

Also 7th December. www.thenma.org.uk Sat 3rd November 3-9pm

Medieval Festival Bonfire & Fireworks Pillaton Hall Farm, Penkridge, ST19 5RZ Featuring The Knights of Middle England as seen at Warwick Castle, come and enjoy a night to remember with Live Music, DJ, Refreshments, Fully Licensed Bar, Magician ‘Make A Guy’ competition, Children’s Fairground Rides, Stalls and much more throughout the event. Jousting at 5pm and Firework display at 7pm. www.pillatonhallfarm.co.uk/events Sat 3rd November 5.30pm

Tamworth Fireworks Extravaganza Tamworth Castle Grounds, B79 7NA An evening of fun and entertainment, starting at 5.30pm and including fire performers, face painting, a sparkler zone, family activities, food stalls and the fair. From

T: 08456 436 874 E: staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk

7

Lots on Local... November 7pm a firework display set to music will light up the sky. As the event is very popular, people are advised to walk or use public transport to the Castle Grounds. Limited free parking will be available at town centre car parks from 6pm. FREE event. www.tamworthartsandevents.co.uk Sat 10th November 12-4pm

Lottie’s Tots Winter Fayre

Drayton Manor Cricket & Social Club, Fallow Rd, Tamworth, B78 3SJ Join us for a Winter Fayre bursting with craft stalls, entertainment, character appearances & more! Adults £1 entry, tots free. www.lottiestots.co.uk Sun 11th - Mon 12th November

Stick Man

Lichfield Garrick, Castle Dyke, Lichfield, WS13 6HR Touching, funny and utterly original, Scamp Theatre’s delightful adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s STICK MAN is coming to the Lichfield Garrick!

What starts off as a morning jog becomes quite the misadventure for Stick Man: a dog wants to play fetch with him, a swan builds a nest with him and he even ends up on a fire!

How will Stick Man ever get back to the family tree?

This award-winning production, from the team behind The Scarecrows’ Wedding features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves. Tel 01543 412121 www.lichfieldgarrick.com Sat 17th November 10am-6pm

Christmas Craft Fair

Ancient High House, Greengate Street, Stafford, ST16 2JA Browse the wide range of traditional craft stalls for that exclusive festive gift. Visit Santa in his grotto and try our mince pies and hot drinks. Free admission. www.staffordmuseums.co.uk/events

8

17th November - 24th December (selected dates)

North Pole Adventure at the National Forest Adventure Farm

Tatenhill, Burton on Trent, DE13 9SJ Join us on a magical festive journey to the North Pole to meet Father Christmas and his friends. Travel through the magic portal to Father Christmas’ home town.

Explore the Victorian high Street and sweet shop, help the elves sort the parcels and meet our interactive talking polar bear under the Northern Lights.

Decorate gingerbread men, take part in Elf Training and enjoy a special meeting with Father Christmas in his grotto.

Tickets also include entry the National Forest Adventure Farm the day of your visit.

Tel 01283 533933 www.adventurefarm.co.uk

Fri 23rd November 11am-12pm

Bach to Baby Christmas Family Concert Holy Trinity Church, Church Hill, Mill St, Sutton Coldfield, B72 1TF Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed classical concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow.

Adults £15, children free. Booking essential. www.bachtobaby.com

www.lotsfortots.co.uk/staffordshire

PERFEC TF LITTLE OR ONES

THURS 6 TO MON 24 DECEMBER

Lots on Local...

November - December

Every weekend from 24th November 23rd December

Santa Express at Statfold Barn Railway

Ashby Road, Tamworth, B79 0BU Climb aboard Santa’s magical steam train and be transported to his home at The North Pole.

Meet his elves & reindeer, decorate ginger bread men with Mrs Claus while the grown up’s enjoy a mince pie & festive drink, then enter Santa’s Grotto to see the big man himself and receive your beautiful gift. Children £20 (inc. surprise toy) & adults £15. Book online. www.statfoldbarnrailway.co.uk Sat 24th - Sun 25th November 11am-4pm

A very vintage Christmas market

Middleton Hall, Tamworth, B78 2AE Discover an array of gift ideas as well as mulled wine and festive delights available to buy. We will also have activities for younger children. Adults £3, under 18s free. www.middleton-hall.co.uk Sun 25th November 2-4pm

Spark’s Christmas Fair

Spark Springhill, Springhill Academy, Mossbank Ave, Burntwood, WS7 4UN A fun filled afternoon including games, crafts, Christmas shopping, raffle, tombola and refreshments. FREE Entry. www.sparkburntwood.co.uk www.facebook.com/sparkburntwood Sun 25th November 12-6pm

Lichfield Christmas Lights Switch On Lichfield City Centre Christmas market, afternoon entertainments, followed by traditional carols with the lights being switched on at 5pm followed by the arrival of Santa. www.lichfield.gov.uk Sun 25th November 2-4pm

SNAP Cannock Christmas Fayre Special Needs Adventure Playground, Pye Green Rd, Cannock, WS11 5RW Christmas Gift & Craft Fayre raising funds for SNAP. Bring your children along and they can play while you shop.www.cannocksnap.com 10

Sun 25th November from 1pm

Tamworth Christmas Lights Switch On St Editha’s Square, Tamworth This year’s free extravaganza is another jam packed day of festive fun for the whole family, ahead of the main event at 5pm when the lights will be switched on with our special guest Father Christmas!

Festivities take place throughout the day from 1pm including live music, fairground rides, a festive market, a nativity under the Town Hall, the St Editha’s Church Christmas Tree Festival, walkabout characters, dance performances and face painting. www.tamworthartsandevents.co.uk Thu 29th November - Sat 5th January

Dick Whittington

Lichfield Garrick, Castle Dyke, Lichfield, WS13 6HR Sam Rabone and Ben Thornton are back at the Lichfield Garrick for one of the most traditional Pantomimes around joined by CBeebies star, Katrina Bryan (Nina and the Neurons)! Tel 01543 412121 www.lichfieldgarrick.com Sat 1st December 10am-4pm

Christmas in Days Gone By

Ancient High House, Greengate Street, Stafford, ST16 2JA Meet our costumed characters and learn about Christmas in the Tudor, Stuart, Georgian and Victorian periods. Stir a traditional pudding and sing carols in the Victorian Room. Meet Father Christmas in his grotto. Craft workshops and family entertainment. Free admission. www.staffordmuseums.co.uk/events Sat 1st - Sun 2nd December 10am-4pm

Sandon Christmas Fair

Sandon Hall, Sandon, Stafford, ST18 0BZ A great place to start your festive season as the hall will be beautifully decorated for Christmas with carol singers and live entertainment throughout both days adding to the seasonal atmosphere.

You’ll find some unique ideas for Christmas

www.lotsfortots.co.uk/staffordshire

Lots on Local...

December

presents, with exhibitors showcasing everything from children’s books and toys to locally produced food gifts. Adults £4, under 16s free. www.sandonhall.co.uk/events Sat 1st - Sun 2nd December 9am-4pm

Christmas Food & Gift Fair

National Memorial Arboretum, Croxall Road, Alrewas, Burton upon Trent, DE13 7AR Explore the beautiful wintry landscape of the Arboretum before browsing for those perfect handmade Christmas gifts and tasty festive treats. Children’s craft activities are also available. Free entry. www.thenma.org.uk Sat 1st - Mon 24th December

Chasewater Railway Santa Specials Brownhills West Station, Pool Lane (Off A5), Burntwood, WS8 7NL Enjoy a festive steam train ride through Chasewater Country Park. Santa and his helpers will visit you at your seat in our heated carriages. Each child receives an age appropriate gift, a commemorative mug and a mince pie. Your journey starts and ends at Brownhills West Station where you can also visit our model railway, museum, gift shop and tearoom. We suggest allowing 2 hours for your visit. Book online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/chasewater-railway Thu 6th - Mon 24th December

Elf & Reindeer’s Christmas Cracker Lichfield Garrick, Castle Dyke, Lichfield, WS13 6HR Meet two charming magical characters and share their story of friendship and determination as they try to become Santa’s very best little helpers in this delightful new seasonal story of generosity, kindness and perseverance. This original production, full of imaginative magical storytelling, comedy and festive cheer is especially designed to engage and inspire the young audience members and is a cracking great experience for all the family.

Tel 01543 412121 www.lichfieldgarrick.com

Thu 6th - Sat 8th December

Dear Santa

Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, ST16 2LT From the author of well-loved children’s book Dear Zoo, Rod Campbell. A perfect introduction to theatre for 2 to 7 year olds.

Plus meet Santa himself after the show! www.staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk Sat 8th December 10am-1pm

Festive Family Funday

Brewhouse Arts Centre, Union St, Burton on Trent, DE14 1AA Create your own gifts, treats and baubles with the help of our team of elves and fairies.

We’ll have stories around the “fireplace” and a host of hands on yuletide activities and treats. We even have a special visit from the main man himself! £7.50 per child, £12 for two siblings, adults free. www.brewhouse.co.uk 8th-9th, 15th-16th & 22nd-23rd December

Children’s Victorian Christmas Santa Trails

Tamworth Castle, The Holloway, B79 7NA Visitors will journey around the Castle searching for Santa whilst joining in with a series of activities including helping Cook make Christmas pudding, decorating the tree and joining the Stablehand to find the carrots for the reindeers. All just in time to find Santa in his grotto! Pre-booking essential. Timed slots available every 35mins.

Tickets from Tamworth Tourist Information.

Tel 01827 709618 www.tamworthcastle.co.uk Sat 8th - Sun 9th December 2pm

Professor Custard’s Toy Workshop

Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum, Lichfield, WS13 6LG Hands-on festive activity session, make a selection of traditional toys to take home!

Children must be accompanied by an adult. £4, booking essential. Tel 01543 264972 www.samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk

T: 08456 436 874 E: staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk

11

Lots on Local...

December

Sun 9th December 11.30am

Wed 19th December 2pm, 4pm & 9pm

Santa In Love

The Snowman with live orchestra

Prince of Wales Theatre, Church Street, Cannock, WS11 1DE Join Santa and friends in this fun filled family musical complete with games, giggles and all your favourite Christmas songs. Santa will be available after the show to meet your little ones and give them a present. Tickets £9.

Tel 01543 578762 www.princeofwales.live

Lichfield Cathedral, The Close, Lichfield Experience the magic of The Snowman film brought to life with a big screen and live orchestra! The first half will feature a wonderfully Christmassy overture followed by an animated film of the award winning book, “The Bear and the Piano”, by David Litchfield. The second half will feature the beautiful festive film of “The Snowman” with live orchestra and narration, a magical Christmas treat for all ages! www.carrotproductions.com/the-snowman

Thu 13th - Sun 23rd December

Tamworth Pantomime Company presents Dick Whittington Landau Forte Academy Quems, B79 8AH Join some of your favourite local performers as you sing, dance and laugh along with the cast of the funniest Christmas adventure this side of London. Adults £14, Children £9 & Family ticket £42 (2 adults & 2 children). www.tamworthartsandevents.co.uk

Library Sessions

Brereton 2.15-2.45 Mon Brewood 2.15-2.45 Tue Burton on Trent 10.30-11 Thu Stafford 11-11.30 Tue Sutton Coldfield 11-11.30

Fri Uttoxeter 9.30-10 Wed

Play & Stay

Barton u N’wood 10.15-11.45 2nd Wed of Mth Heath Hayes 2.30-4 Thu 10.30-12 9.45-10.30 10-10.45 11-11.45 10-10.45

Tue Wed Fri Fri Fri

Tots Library

Wilnecote 9.30-10.30 Wed

Toy Library

Barton under Needwood 12

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/shugborough-estate

Wed

Baby Bounce & Rhyme (under 3’s)

Storytime (under 5’s)

Burntwood Burton on Trent Cannock Lichfield Rugeley

Milford, near Stafford, ST17 0XB Join us on a special lantern lit experience across the estate. £15 adults & £10 children (includes day admission).

Burton on Trent

Term Time Only

Toddler/Tot Time (crafts)

Fri 21st & Sat 22nd December 4-6pm

Shugborough Lantern Parade

Baswich 2.30-3 Mon Brereton 11-11.30 Fri Burntwood 10.30-11 Thu Burton on Trent 10.15-10.45 Tue

11.15-11.45 Fri Cannock 10.30-11 Thu Eccleshall 10-10.30 Fri Heath Hayes 9.30-10 Fri Hednesford 10.45-11.15 Fri Holmecroft 10.30-11 Tue Lichfield 11-11.30 Tue Norton Canes 9.30-10 Fri Penkridge 10-10.30 Fri Rising Brook 10.30-11 Fri Rugeley 10-10.30 Mon Shenstone 10.30-11 Tue Stafford 10-10.30 Wed Sutton Coldfield 9.30-10 every other Fri Tamworth 11-11.30

Fri Uttoxeter 10.30-11.30 Tue

Wed

www.lotsfortots.co.uk/staffordshire

30 hours FREE Childcare* Smallwood Pre-School is an inspirational place which encourages every child to thrive.

Our award winning Pre-School provides our little ones with a lovely, happy ‘home from home’ atmosphere where the first steps to learning begin.

Denstone College Preparatory School at Smallwood Manor, Uttoxeter, Staffordshire, ST14 8NS.

call: 01889 562 083 email: registrar@denstoneprep.co.uk www.denstoneprep.co.uk

*Subject to eligibility

Relax and enjoy a perfect family holiday at our award winning lodge holiday park in the Peak District.

Indoor & outdoor play areas Fantastic indoor pool w Family friendly restaurant w Discounts at local attractions

w

w

To find out more and to book online visit

www.darwinforest.co.uk T: 08456 436 874 E: staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk

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

Branston Parent & Toddler 9.45-11.15 Tue

Branston Village Hall

Baby Sensory 10am/11.15 Tue Branston All Saints Church

Moira

Tutbury

Baby Sensory

10am, 11.15am & 12.30pm Mon Call Vicky 07870 862364 burtonsouth@babysensory.co.uk Moira Village Hall

Rolleston on Dove

Baby & Toddler Group

1-2.30pm Mon & 9.30-11am Fri Term time only, £1.50 Tutbury Pre-School, Cornmill Ln

Uttoxeter Stay & Play 10-11.30am Thu

Uttoxeter Library, High St

Rolleston Playgroup

10-11.30am Tue/Fri 0-3.5yr Rolleston Club, Burnside

Winshill

Stapenhill Jump for Joy 9.30-11.30am Mon St Peter’s Church, Stanton Rd

Stay & Play with Sal

9.30-11.30am Mon Church Hall, Branston Rd

Twins & Multiples Group

Dads 4 Dads Group

UpBeat music & movement £4 9.30-10.30am (0-pre-school) Wed Booking recommended.

Brewhouse Arts Centre, Burton

Burton on Trent All Saints Parent & Toddler

Breastmilk Mummies

10am-12pm Mon (drop in)

Simply Play

9.15-10.30am & 10.45am-12pm Wed (Free, booking required)

Simply Play for Babies

1-2.30pm Wed (must book)

Stay & Play with Sal

9.30-11.30am Thu (drop in, £3.50) East Staffs Children’s Ctr, Waterloo St, Tel 01283 233400 facebook.com/ EastStaffsChildrensCentre

10-11am Mon (drop in, £2 per family)

Neonatal Support Group

10am-12pm Sat (must book) Tel 01283 533449 Winshill Resource Centre

10-11.30am 1st Tue of month

Hill Street Mini Movers

Tums to Tots drop in

10-11.30am Thu (drop in) Hill St Health Centre, Hill St

9.30-11.30am Tue

Winshill Mini Fun Factory

Short Street Toddlers

9.45-11.45am Fri Short Street Methodist Chapel

Glebe Pre-school

Draycott

9.30-11.30am Wed, Village Hall

14

Tots n Dots 9.15-11am Thu Gospel Hall, Hawfield Lane

Stretton St Mary’s Church Hall, Hillfield Ln

Class & group details are

Stretton Pram Club

correct at the time of going to

Stretton Methodist Church

print but are subject to change.

in the Clay 1.30-3pm Tue

Tots Corner Toddler Group

10-11.30am Wed Winshill Methodist Church

9.15am-12.15pm Mon-Fri Lunch Club 12.15-1.15pm www.glebe-preschool.co.uk Tel 07989 036843 Stanton Rd, DE15 9RW

Baby & Toddler St Mary’s & St Modwen’s Toddler Group 10am-12pm Wed, 10-11.30am Tue/Fri Church Hall, Guild St

10-11.30am Wed (drop in, £3.50)

Please check with the event organiser before setting out.

www.lotsfortots.co.uk/staffordshire

Lots on Weekly...

Burntwood & Cannock

Most classes are Term-Time only

Burntwood Childminder Drop in 9.30-11.30 Mon/Thu

Spark Baby Bistro Breastfeeding Cafe 10-11am Mon

Spark Babies 11am -12.30pm Mon (Pregnancy - Walking)

Spark Grandparent’s Playgroup

1.30-3.30pm Mon (0-4yrs)

Sparky’s Den After School Club 4-6pm Mon (4-8yrs, inc. hot meal)

Bump to Baby Antenatal Course 7.30-9.30pm Mon, booking required

Horizon Single Parent Support

9.30-11.30am Tue

Sally Davies Baby Massage

Cannock Bambinos Toddler Group

1.30-2.30pm Thu (2-4yrs) dcl.hannah@gmail.com

Toddler/Pre-school sessions @ SNAP Cannock

9.30-11.30am Thu (fortnightly) Drop in for 0-5yrs with additional needs. £1 per family.

9.30-11.30am Mon/Wed/Fri Avon Centre WS11 1LH Any 2 hrs 10am-1pm Mon/Tue SNAP Playground, Pye Green Rd

Create & Play Babies

10-11.30am Mon (0-1yr, free )

Create & Play

9.30-11.30am Fri (babies & toddlers) Create Community Hub, Stafford Rd, WS12 4PD

Messy Play 1-2.30pm Wed Play & Stay 10-11.30am Fri

10.45-11.45am Tue, must book Lunch Bunch 12-1.30pm Tue

West Chadsmoor Family Centre 98-100 Princess St, WS11 5JT

(0-2 yr) 10-11.30am Wed Mama Blues Postnatal depression support 1-2.30pm Wed & 10-11.30am Thu

Huntington Grandparents & Toddler Group

Little Owls Baby Sensory

12.30-2pm Thu, (2-4yrs)

9.30-11.30am Thu Littleton Green Community Sch Fun with Families 10-11.30am Fri (0-5yrs, drop in £3 per family) Pye Green Community Centre

7.15-9pm Thu, booking required

D.C.L Drama Llama

Crafty Crocodiles

Happy Hands Sign Language Little Sparklers Playgroup 10-11.30am Fri (6mths-4yrs)

Midday Mayhem Young Parents Group (Up to 25 yrs) 12-2pm Fri

Worldwide Women International Parent group 12-2pm, 2nd Fri of month

Spark Dad’s Group

Male carers with 0-4yr olds 9.30-11am last Sat of month Spark Springhill, Mossbank Ave facebook.com/sparkburntwood www.sparkburntwood.co.uk

Hammerwich Toddler

10am-12pm/1-3pm Mon Burntwood Institute Little Lambs10-11.30am Mon/Fri Redwood Community Centre

D.C.L Drama Llama

10-10.40am Sat (2-4yrs) 11-11.40am Sat (5-8yrs) dcl.hannah@gmail.com Avon Centre, WS11 1LH

Cannock Chase

Breastfeeding Support Group

1.45-3.15pm Mon (drop in) Stay & Play 1.15-2.45pm Mon (0-5yrs, drop in £1.50) Let’s Cook 9.30-11.30am & 11.30am-1.30pm Mon (2-4yrs, booking required)

Sensory Space @ Chase

Simply Play for Babies

1-2.30pm Thu (0-15mths, booking required) Story Crafts 9.30-11.30am Fri (18mths-4yrs. Free, must book) Cannock Chase Children’s Centre, Cannock Rd, WS11 5BU Tel 01543 469894 facebook.com/ cannockchasechildrenscentre

Great Wyrley Twins Club 12.30-2.30pm Mon 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 Baby & Toddler

10am-12pm, 3rd Fri of Mth, Booking advisable 01543 877666 Museum of Cannock Chase, Valley Rd

Norton Canes Baby Stay & Play

(0-12mths) 10-11.30am Thu Norton Canes Children’s Centre

Grandparent & Toddler Group

9.30-11.30am Wed (18mths-5yrs)

TOTally Kids Stay & Play 10am-12pm Thu (0-5yrs, drop in 50p)

T: 08456 436 874 E: staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk

15

Lots on Weekly...

Lichfield & Tamworth

Most classes are Term-Time only

Fradley Fradley Toddler Group

(0-4yrs) 9.45-11.30am Wed Fradley Village Hall

Lichfield Childminder Drop In 9.30-11.30am Mon Little Stars Parent & Toddler

for children with disabilities 1-3pm Wed (Free, drop in) Parent Pit Stop 9.15-11.15am Thu (drop in whilst at Health Visitor clinic) Old & Young Play 1-3pm Thu (0-5yrs & grandparents, drop in) Hearing Impaired Group 3.30-5.30pm Thu Friday Club 9am-12pm Fri

Breastfeeding Support Group 1-2.30pm Fri (free, drop in) Charnwood Children’s Centre Purcell Ave, WS13 7PH Tel 01543 512024

Christchurch Under 5s 1.30-3pm Mon Martin Heath Hall

Emmanuel Toddlers

9.15-11.15am Tue Emmanuel Christian Centre

TinyTalk Baby Signing

10-11am Wed (0-18 mths) 11.15am-12.15pm Wed (18mths +) 12.30-1.30pm Wed (0-18mths) Tesco Extra Community Room

Activity Session 9.15-11.30am Tue/Thu Belgrave Fire Station

Breastfeeding Support 10-11.30am Mon (drop in, free)

Kiddibops Music Class

1pm (babies) & 2pm (0-4yrs) Mon

Sticky Finger Family Crafts

10-11.30am Tue (1yr +, booking required)

Kiddibops Music Class

1pm (babies) & 2pm (0-4yrs) Wed

In It Together Support Group

for children with additional needs 12-2pm 1st Thu of month, (Free, drop in) Leyfield’s Children’s Centre, B79 8JB, Tel 01827 68750 facebook.com/tamworthchildrenscentre

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

In It Together Support Group

for children with additional needs 10am-12pm 3rd Tue of month, (Free, drop in)

Breastfeeding Support

1-2.30pm Thu (Free, drop in)

Kiddibops Music Class

9.45am (newborn development course), 10.30am (babies), 11.20am (0-4yrs) & 12.15pm (2.5-4yrs) Fri Glascote Children’s Centre B77 2HH, Tel 01827 475222 facebook.com/tamworthchildrenscentre

Story with Rory 10.30am Wed

Dosthill Parent & Tots Group 9-11am Thu

Stay & Play/Toy Library 9.15-11.45am Fri

NCT Cloth Nappy Library

Green Room at Lichfield Garrick

Jigsaw Community Hub

Baby Sensory

10am/ 11.15am/ 12.45pm Fri Curborough Community Centre

Dosthill Baptist Ch, Cadogan Rd

12-1pm, 4th Thu of every month Community Hub Cafe, Tamworth Castle Grounds

Mini Me’s Mother & Toddler 9.30-11.30am Fri

(fortnightly) Elford Village Hall

Tamworth

Activity Session 9.15-11am Mon/Wed Family Support Grp 9-11am Fri

St Martin’s Church, Stonydelph

Whittington Whittington Baby & Toddler 10-11.30am Thu

Whittington Village Hall

Fazeley Parent & Tots 9.30-11.15am Mon/ Fri Mill Lane Link, Fazeley 16

www.lotsfortots.co.uk/staffordshire

Please mention Lots for Tots when contacting an advertiser

Drama Llama

FREE ENTRY when pre-register online Or VIP Goody

Sponsored by

tickets

Bag

Drama, music & creative play for 2 - 8 year olds Sessions across Staffordshire ÂŁ4 per session. Get in touch to book.

Saturday

3rd Nov 10am-2pm

07376 235086 dcl.hannah@gmail.com @dcldrama18

Trent Vineyard Conference Centre Lenton Lane Nottingham NG7 2PX

www.eastmidlandsbabyandtoddlershow.co.uk

Most babies learn best when they see , hear, feel, touch, taste and smell Welcome to the magic of Baby 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 07870 862364, email burtonsouth@babysensory.co.uk or visit www.babysensory.com

T: 08456 436 874 E: staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk

17

Lots on Weekly...

Stafford & Rugeley

Most classes are Term-Time only

Armitage

Sing & Sign

Mon 9.45 (7mth+) 11am (14mth+) 12.15 (0mth+) Fulford Village Hall, ST11 9QT

Bump & Baby 10am-12pm Mon Play & Stay 1-2.30pm Tue Toddler Group 1-2.45pm Thu,

(drop in, £1.50)

Ridware Rascals 10-11.30am Fri

Stafford Twins Group 9.30-11.30am Thu

Armitage Village Hall

Ridware Village Hall, Uttoxeter Rd

Brocton Mother & Toddler 10-11.30 Wed

Brocton Village Hall

Doxey Tuneful Tots 10-11.30am Tue, Sutton Centre

Hixon Jelly Beans, Bumps, Babies & Little Buddies 10-11.30am Thu, jellybeanshixon@gmail.com Hixon Memorial Hall, High St

Rugeley Buggy Walk 10.30-11.30 Mon, Meet at the library Let’s Cook 9.30-11.30am Tue (2-4yrs, please book) Breastfeeding Support Group 11am-12.30pm Wed (drop in, free)

Childminder Stay & Play

9.30-11.30am Thu (0-5yrs, drop in) Western Springs Children’s Centre, Lovett Court, WS15 2QD, Tel 01543 469894

Play & Stay 9.30-11 Thu/Fri Family Focus 9.30-11.30am Thu St Paul’s Church Hall

NCT Bumps n Babies 9.30-11.30 Mon

Louise’s Stay & Play 9.45-11.30am Wed

(drop in babies/toddlers, £1.50, 50p for siblings) (drop in, £1 per child)

Sing & Sign Thu 10am (7mth+),

11.15am (14mth+) & 12.30pm (0mth+) Families First at Faraday Road Tel 01785 854700 facebook.com/faradayroadstafford

Cafe Tots 11am-2pm Mon-Fri Rising Brook Church Berkswich Toddler 1.30-3pm Tue Methodist Church Hall Simply Play Baby 10-11.30 Mon (booking required) Childminders Group 9.45-11.30am Wed (drop in) Breastfeeding Advice 1.30-2.30pm Wed

(appointment only) Sling Library 9.30-11.30am 1st Thu of mth (drop in) Silkmore Children’s Centre, Exeter St, ST17 4EG Tel 01785 246802 facebook.com/2009silkmore

Praise and Play 10-11am Wed St Mary’s Church

Sticky Fingers 9.45-11.30am Thu Stafford Baptist Church Mumsnbabes 9.30-11.30am Fri Weston Village Hall Dots to Tots 10.30-11.30am Fri

Holmcroft Community Centre ST16 1NL

Stafford

Little Doves 9.30-10.15am Mon 1.30-3.30pm Thu

Waterhouses Bungalow

Trinity Tots Parent & Toddlers 10am-12pm Mon,

Mount St, ST16 2BZ

St John’s Parent & Toddlers 1.30-3.20pm Mon, St John’s Catholic Primary, ST18 0SL

18

What does your baby want to say? £5 off online booking with code LOTS4TOTS

07967 286271 leesemott@singandsign.co.uk www.singandsign.com

www.lotsfortots.co.uk/staffordshire

Lots on Weekly...

Sutton Coldfield

Most classes are Term-Time only

TinyTalk 9.45am (18 mth+), 11am (0-18mths) & 12.15pm (0-18mths) Mon Chester Road Baptist Church, B73 5HU

Britwell Playgroup 9.30-11.30am Mon Wylde Green United Reform Ch

11am-12pm (0-18mths) Four Oaks Methodist Church B74 2UU

Rainbow Rhyme 10-10.45am (mixed age) Fri 11-11.45am (baby session) Fri (call to book, see ) Streetly Association, Streetly

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 All Saints Toddlers 10-11.30am Mon

All Saints Little Angels Stay & Play

9.45-11.45am Fri (for 2yrs +) Booking required Tel 0121 353 3582 All Saints Streetly Parish Church B74 3JL





          



 

Stay & Play 1-2.30pm Mon (drop in) Childminders Stay & Play 9.30-11.30am Tue Rhythm, Rhyme & Storytime 9.30-10.45am Thu

Holland House Children’s Centre, B72 1RE Tel 0121 6757171

Stay & Play 1.30-3pm Mon & Fri (drop in) New Hall Children’s Centre, B75 7NQ Tel 0121 4645170 option 2 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 (0-18mths) Tue

Quaker Meeting House, Kenelm Rd, B73 6HD

NCT Bumps & Babies 10-11am Wed (Sling session) Quinto Lounge, Birmingham Rd B72 1QA

Little Lights Baby & Toddler 9.45-11.15am Thu St Michael’s Church, Boldmere

The Milk Bar Breastfeeding Support

10-11.30am Thu The Hub, Mere Green Community Centre, B75 5BT

Mother & Toddlers 2.15-3.15pm Thu





         

Evangelical Church, Egerton Rd

TinyTalk Fri 9.45-10.45am (18mth+)

T: 08456 436 874 E: staffordshire@lotsfortots.co.uk





 

19

asquith day nurseries & pre-schools

Looking for ‘Outstanding’ quality childcare for your baby?

milford day nursery & pre-school

springfields pre-school & day nursery

Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ nursery in a beautiful Victorian setting. Complete with a garden area for each age range for your child to play and explore.

Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ nursery with extracurricular activities to support your child’s development. Including ballet, tennis and French lessons.

Milford Road, Walton-on-the-Hill, Staffordshire ST17 0LA

Beacon Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 7BJ

Want to find out more?

Contact us to book your personal tour.

Call 01753 20 11 22 CK CHE ED

ter

E at

b

et

ter,

et

U

18 20

ME N

Email us at parents@asquithnurseries.co.uk or visit www.asquithnurseries.co.uk st a r t

b

Proud to be part of