Handprints Magazine November 2009 by The Magazine Production Company

Handprints M a G a Z i n e

nov 2009 - FeB 2010

north Bristol & South Gloucestershire

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inside this edition Great discounts, competitions & reader offers exclusive to Handprints Magazine readers from: avon valley Railway, SS Gt Britain, Filton Fun Hangar, Mayhem Soft Play, Jump 123, Zzzone Photgraphy & many many moreâ&#x20AC;Ś Read more inside about family finances, health visitor information, christmas & new year activities & a directory of local nurseries, pre-schools, playgroups & childminders

www.handprintsmagazine.co.uk a guide to life with under 5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Handprints 1009 Issue 5 AW.indd 1

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realising individual  brilliance...  To see for yourself, please call 0117 933 9087  or go to !!!.cli&'n)ig).bris.'l.sc).u0

961 CHS Handprints 148x210 Nov.indd 1 Handprints 1009 Issue 5 AW.indd 2

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Winter with

ell, its been yet another busy few months at the Handprints Magazine office. Our team has grown and we have welcomed Rachel Shadbolt as a new editor. Rachel has been finding out whats on, whats hot and what to do with under 5’s over the Christmas season – talking of Christmas can you believe its here already? We can’t – where has the year gone? We have also welcomed our fab sales team, Sharon, Jo and Sian, they have worked so hard in the past few months and with their help we have managed to create what we reckon is the best Handprints Magazine to date. Read on to find out more about Christmas events, family finances, advice from the health visitors and look out for the reader special offers and giveaways. We have prizes, vouchers and reader offers from our advertisers saving you money and helping you with Christmas. We have also been busy revamping our website. We now have a site where you can join up and become part of the Handprints Magazine Community.

At www.handprintsmagazine.co.uk you can sign in and talk to friends, comment on a forum, blog, load photos and promote your own events. We run special offers and giveaways from the website so its always worth a look. It’s your online guide to life with under 5’s. You will also see a lot more of us as we launch our South Bristol and North Somerset Magazine and we have more plans next year – watch out, this year Bristol, next year The World… we have even had interest from readers wanting their own Handprints Magazines in South America and Dubai. Check out the website for news on our global journey. And just a quick reminder… Lisa will be off to trek the Wall of China in May 2010 – so if you see her eating cake, stop her! Every cake is one step away from her goal to raise £3000 for Have a Heart, a local charity raising money to improve the life of local children. Find out more from www.heartbristol.co.uk. And finally… Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all!

xxx Lisa, Lucy & Rachel

Don’t keep it a secret… tell everyone about

www.handprintsmagazine.co.uk a guide to life with under 5’s

Sign up, join in, tell us your news, meet friends, recommend things to do, places to go, blog, upload your photos, chat, win prizes and find out about special offers for handprints readers first. If you’ve got news then let everyone know at www.handprintsmagazine.co.uk Become part of the newest online community for parents in Bristol and South Gloucestershire.

5:23:25

WeLcoMe

www.handprintsmagazine.co.uk a guide to life with under 5’s Don’t forget to mention handprints Magazine when contacting advertisers Handprints 1009 Issue 5 AW.indd 3

Handprints M a G a Z i n e

Nov 2009-Feb 2010 • Handprints Magazine • 3 11/11/09 10:34:17

health Visitor topic

Top Tips for Tiny Teeth Fai Pope, Student Health Visitor

his Christmas children of all ages will be given some sweets or chocolate. Our local health visitor has given us some tips for a smashing smile in the new year.

Good habits start young Try to introduce a soft toothbrush before any teeth have appeared. As soon as your child’s first teeth appear you can begin to use a very small amount of fluoride toothpaste. For babies, smear the brush with toothpaste and aim to be using about a pea-sized amount of toothpaste by the time your child reaches 3 years. Ask your Health Visitor for a dental pack at your baby’s 9-12 month review.

Brush Twice a Day Once teeth have appeared they should be cleaned twice a day. Use gentle circular movements and clean every tooth thoroughly. This can be quite difficult at first but try not to turn it into a battle, make it a fun activity for all the family, give lots of praise and encouragement, and let them learn by watching you clean your teeth.

Abacus Professional Training

12 hour Paediatric First Aid

Top Tips

£45 per person

4 Encourage savoury foods for snacks give them raw fruits and vegetables 4 Give sweet foods and diluted fruit juices at mealtimes and always in a cup 4 Babies should only be given water or milk in a bottle, never juice 4 Aim for all other drinks between meals to be water or milk (not flavoured) 4 Use alternatives to sweets and chocolates as treats try stickers, hair slides or crayons instead. Try to get grandparents involved in this one too! 4 If your child is unwell ask your GP or Pharmacist for Sugar Free medicine 4 If your child does have sweets aim to have them at the end of mealtimes and it is better if they are all eaten at once

Little Stoke Bristol:

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Tel 01179 599280

www.handprintsmagazine.co.uk

In House Courses Available From £375 Ask for Michelle

HSE Approved Training Provider

A Guide to Life with Under 5’s 11/11/09 10:34:17

WINTERBOURNE DOWN PRE-SCHOOL • Established charity run, community pre school • Safe, secure & stimulating environment for 2 - 5 year olds • Current Pre School Leader in post for 30 years • OFSTED approved curriculum • All staff NVQ qualified • Individual care & Key Worker for all children • Nursery Education Grants - funding available for all 3 & 4 year olds • Children not required to be toilet trained • Up to 6 sessions per week for 3-5yrs • Half days, Full days & Lunch sessions available • Feeding Primary Schools in Winterbourne, Hambrook, Bradley Stoke, Emersons Green & surrounding areas To discuss your child’s individual needs, contact Linda Edgar, Pre School Leader, on 07891 100467 email winterbournedownpreschool@gmail.com or call in to see us.

Spaces available now !

All Saints Church Hall, Church Road, Winterbourne Down, Bristol, BS36 1BX

Tockington Manor School Nursery ✓Open 7.45am - 5.45pm ✓Full or part-time places from age 2 ✓Cooked lunch provided ✓Qualified & experienced staff ✓High ratio of staff to children ✓A lively & stimulating curriculum For further information please contact Mrs Louisa Beveridge, Tockington Manor School, Tockington, Bristol BS32 4NY. Visit our website at

www.tockington.bristol.sch.uk

Butterflies Day Nursery opened in January 2006 and with over 100 children registered, we are North Bristol’s most popular day nursery and pre-school. Due to local demand, we will be expanding our Pre-School area in November by a further 35 places to offer AM and PM sessional care to 3 and 4 year olds. ●

Opening hours 7.30-6pm, Monday to Friday

●

All Childcare Vouchers accepted

●

Free Nursery Education Grant for 3 & 4 year olds

●

95% of staff are at least NVQ2 qualiﬁed

●

Three Outside Play Areas

●

AM and PM Sessional care now available for Pre-Schoolers

To arrange a visit, please contact Kim, (Acting) Nursery Manager, on 01454 617111

Six of the original seven staff we opened the nursery with are still with us and we continue to fund the ongoing development of all staff. We invite prospective parents to come and experience our friendly, professional atmosphere. References available upon request.

Don’t forget to mention handprints Magazine when contacting advertisers Handprints 1009 Issue 5 AW.indd 5

Nov 2009-Feb 2010 • Handprints Magazine • 5 11/11/09 10:34:18

Kate Brookes (cert)PFS ASI Independent Financial Adviser

Financial Planning, Pensions, Investments, Mortgages, Protection Insurance

Tel: 01225 580050/07985022804 Email: kb@future-financial.co.uk www.future-financial.co.uk/katebrookes.htm FUTURE FINANCIAL IS A TRADING NAME OF SYNERGIE FINANCIAL PLANNING LTD WHICH IS AUTHORISED AND REGULATED BY THE FINANCIAL SERVICES AUTHORITY, REGISTERED IN ENGLAND NO.4936420

NOT Made Your Will Yet? In these Times of Great Uncertainty Does it Worry You that… “Your Children may NOT inherit all Your Home and Savings… ...the Government could get some!” Care Fees, Inheritance Tax and other Fees Devastate Thousands of Families every year.

0800 988 5187 or visit www.cutyourbills.biz

Get rid of your unwanted stuff, cheaply, simply and locally.

Buy, sell or swap …face 2 face Get a 2good2tip online stall… it’s just like having a tabletop or carboot sale on your computer!

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It all STARTS with a Will from £49.95+vat To Arrange a Home Visit or for FREE Information Call 0845

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6 • Handprints Magazine • Nov 2009-Feb 2010 Handprints 1009 Issue 5 AW.indd 6

Visit www.2good2tip.com NOW

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A Guide to Life with Under 5’s 11/11/09 10:34:19

FiNANciAL pLANNiNG

new year, new Start… take a look at your family finances in 2010

uture financial Planning can be hard sometimes with young children and toddlers to care for, I know, I have done it.

Sometimes it is a matter of getting through the day to day responsibilities of parenting, but it is also a good time to consider your future financial plans at this time. To plan for your children’s and your families future financial security. Tax efficient savings for your child’s future could be a priority for you or grandparents now. Did you know that in addition to your chid trust fund voucher, available from the government, you can contribute an additional £1200 per year to your child’s trust fund, which will grow tax free? You could use your ISA allowance to save long term and tax free for further education, or a deposit on their first home. A change enabling millions of savers aged over 50 to increase the amount deposited in a tax-free Individual Savings Account (ISA) has come in. The amount people can save in an ISA has now risen from £7,200 to £10,200. The new limit is for anyone born on or before 5 April 1960. For everyone else, the limit will rise from 6 April 2010. Why not think really long term and start a stakeholder pension plan for your child now. You could save up to £2,880 per year into a pension plan and the government will make this up to £3,600 with tax relief. None of us likes to think about it, but now is the most important time to consider how you and your family are protected in the event of the untimely death or illness of either parent and the death of both parents must not be overlooked.

Are our wills up to date? If one partner is going back to work part time, it may be worth checking with your HR department if any death benefits from work are affected. Consulting an Independent Financial Adviser at this important time can help you get the best value, most affordable insurances, and more importantly the most relevant policy for your family circumstances. Ask yourself how would my spouse cope if I wasn’t here? futurefinancial offer an initial consultation free of charge to see if we can help with your family and children’s future financial plans. Whilst your children are young, it is an excellent time for a free financial review.

Kate Brookes (cert) PFS, aSi independant Financial adviser futurefinancial 26 Queens Square Bath BA1 2HX email: kb@future-financial.co.uk Tel: 07985 022804 01225 580050 Fax: 01225 44 66 78 futurefinancial is a trading name of Synergie financial Planning Ltd and is authorised and regulated by The financial Services Authority Some people dream of financial indpendence. Others take steps to make it happen. Take the first step today. Call me on 07985 022804 to book your free initial meeting.

Don’t forget to mention handprints Magazine when contacting advertisers Nov 2009-Feb 2010 • Handprints Magazine • 7 Handprints 1009 Issue 5 AW.indd 7

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Win Win Handprints Win! coMpetitioNs

www.handprintsmagazine.co.uk - a guide to life with under 5’s To launch our great new website we have teamed up with some fabulous partners to be able to offer you the chance to win days out and activities for your family… Steam into Christmas with the avon valley Railway

SS Great Britain Tickets

Ho-ho-ho! Come and see Santa on the avon valley Railway! Every weekend from Late November to Christmas Eve, Father Christmas will be on the steam train at the Avon Valley Railway. We have 2 free family tickets for readers – all you need to do is to sign up on www.handprintsmagazine.co.uk and click on PRIzES AND gIVEAWAyS page to enter using code NBRISTSg1. Entries close by 5th December 2009.

a portrait from a local artist – Hayley anne arts

Brunel’s SS Great Britain is a multi award-winning attraction – named England’s Large Visitor Attraction of the Year 2007 – providing a stimulating and fun day for all the family – and it’s right on our doorstep! We have 4 free tickets to the SS Great Britain to give away to readers. Entries close by 10th January 2010. Sign up to www.handprintsmagazine.co.uk and click on PRIzES AND gIVEAWAyS to enter using code NBRISTSg2.

a Filton Fun Hangar Soft Play party

Hayley Anne’s work is original and unique and would look great on any wall. To help us launch our new website Hayley Anne has donated a free portrait for one lucky winner. All we want you to do is sign up to the website at www.handprintsmagazine.co.uk and invite as many contacts and friends to join as possible. The winner will be the member who has most friends by 10th January 2010. So, sign up, join in, invite your friends and tell them all about us. you can find out more about Hayley Anne and her work from hayleyannearts@sky.com or call 01454 618868

To win a Filton Fun Hangar Soft Play party at Filton Sports and leisure centre. Please send the correct answer to the following question to the email address below with your contact details quoting HANDPRINTS COMPETITION in your email. How many different parties does Filton Sports and Leisure Centre provide? Answers to fslc@filtontowncouncil.co.uk by 2nd January A winner will be drawn at random from the correct entries on 2nd January 2010.

Sign up online at www.handprintsmagazine.co.uk - its free and its simple to do. 8 • Handprints Magazine • Nov 2009-Feb 2010 Handprints 1009 Issue 5 AW.indd 8

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A Guide to Life with Under 5’s 11/11/09 10:34:26

coMpetitioNs

Voucher for £5 off

a Filton Fun Hangar Birthday Party Booking at Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, Elm Park, Filton, Bristol 01454 866686 This voucher can only be used when presented in person at the Lesiure Centre reception. Please note it can only be used when booking a Fun Hanger Party and not for any other type of party. It must be used at the time of payment and not once party is booked and paid for.

20% DISCOUNT on a treatment with this voucher Not to be used with any other offers Expires November 2010 Downend Road, KIngsood 0117 967 6461 www.yummymummysltd.co.uk

No photocopies accepted

Don’t forget to mention handprints Magazine when contacting advertisers Handprints 1009 Issue 5 AW.indd 9

Nov 2009-Feb 2010 • Handprints Magazine • 9 11/11/09 10:34:26

Make Time for YOU! As a busy parent, do you ever get 5 minutes to yourself? Have you forgotten what it’s like to do nothing?

Book yourself in for a relaxing Reiki treatment to bring balance to your mind, body & spirit. Reiki is a gentle, natural form of healing. A treatment creates many beneficial effects including stress reduction, relaxation, feelings of peace & wellbeing.

Take a break from the mayhem! To book a treatment or for more information

Contact Sarah Tompsett

UK Reiki Federation Practitioner Member Mobile: 07957 462472 Email: sarah.tompsett@virgin.net 1100ad:Layout 1 25/6/09 14:58

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Gift vouchers available

Make birthday wishes come true with Mias Magic

BCY BRISTOL CITY YOGA

Supporting families every step of the way • Pregnancy & Mum-Baby Yoga • Couples Birth Preparation • Baby Yoga & Massage • Acupuncture & Therapies • Family & Children’s Yoga • Kinder Music

www.bristolcityyoga.co.uk 0117 924 4414 10 • Handprints Magazine • Nov 2009-Feb 2010 Handprints 1009 Issue 5 AW.indd 10

We would like to offer all handprints magazine readers a 20% discount on a party package. Just call Kirsty 0779 9584851 or email kirsty_davenport@hotmail.co.uk or check out the website for more information www.miasmagic.com

www.handprintsmagazine.co.uk

A Guide to Life with Under 5’s 11/11/09 10:34:29

PartyLite A unique job opportunity! We offer a beautiful range of candles & accessories to suit all tastes, PLUS an exciting opportunity to run your own business! Why not discover all that PartyLite has to offer you:

• An enjoyable income opportunity with flexible hours to suit you and your lifestyle. • No financial outlay required to start! Just bags of enthusiasm! • No previous experience needed as free training is provided. • Quality products with 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Do not miss this window of opportunity! Contact Laura McClory Mobile: 07969 831173 www.lauracandles.co.uk Email: laura.mcclory@hotmail.co.uk for more information NOW! Or to book a home show to receive Free PartyLite product!

Rachel Shadbolt tells us more about family friendly working with Phoenix Cards Who do you work for? I work for myself as a self employed Phoenix Trader. What is Phoenix Trading? The number one direct selling greetings cards company in the world. How does it fit in with your family life? I work when it suits me. I work a couple of hours in the evening or I visit a toddler group and the kids come with me. Whatever I do fits around my life. How much time does it take up? I spend, on average, around 5 hours a week on my business but other traders work full time. How much can you earn? Its up to you. Some traders, who run the business full time, make a very comfortable living. I earn from £50 upwards a month.

Do you have to buy a starter kit or is there a big financial outlay? The only amount you have to spend is £45.00 which includes your starter kit with everything you need to set up your business. What’s the best thing about working for Phoenix Trading? Its my business - no one else tells me what to do, when to do it or how to do it - I’m the boss and you get to meet some great people.

How do you find out more? Contact me for an information pack on 01454 613940 or 07771 547931 or email rachel.shadbolt@talk21.com

Don’t forget to mention Handprints Magazine when contacting advertisers Handprints 1009 Issue 5 AW.indd 11

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A Guide to Life with Under 5’s 11/11/09 10:34:33

dad’s page

Dads! – Hands up who likes soft play!

s a new ‘Self-employed’ dad, my first stop on my road trip worries me at first. I am directed to a non-descript warehouse in the middle of an industrial estate. “What here?”, “yes, dad!” is the reply, Not a good start! However I am soon comforted by all the other MPVs in the car park with “Dad’s Taxis” and “Little Princess on Board” stickers on the windows, and a dusting of crisps throughout the interior.

I walk into reception, pay my entrance fee and then they take the children’s shoes (is this to keep us captive?) and I walk in. WOW! What used to be a centre for industry is now fully carpeted and full of inflatable castles, slides and other structures that would not look amiss on the Krypton Factor’s Assault Course! I have heard many mums complain that they don’t have a husband, but a grown up child. If that’s the case then soft play is fantastic as you can kick off your shoes and become 8 again, with the excuse that you’re with your child! Lots of soft play centres have the same format, a play area and a café where you can get a coffee and the kids can get another hit of sugar to keep them going…. Now I have to try and calm them down, get back to the car (after claiming our shoes back) and set off to our next stop… the journey continues…

ugly bugs softplay NOW OPEN!

Fantastic toddler softplay perfect for Under 5’s Full menu including Sunday lunch Our opening hours: Mon-Fri 9.30-5.30 Sat 10-5 Sun 10-4 Party information on uglybugssoftplay.co.uk Unlimited play Mon-Fri 10.30-11.30 messy play, snacks and juice all included

Telephone 0117 9603969 Don’t forget to mention Handprints Magazine when contacting advertisers Nov 2009-Feb 2010 • Handprints Magazine • 13 Handprints 1009 Issue 5 AW.indd 13

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It’s more than just becoming water-confident. It’s about nurturing your child’s natural love of water. Join at any age, from birth. Tel 0117 971 7165 Email bristolandbath@puddleducks.com

Life but swimmingly...

www.puddleducks.com

Number Seven Boat Trips B ri s t o l

U K

If you are visiting Bristol or living in Bristol why not come along to the Harbourside and enjoy the views and history of Bristol with Number Seven Boat Trips We run boat trips regularly RIVER TRIPS FREE FOR UNDER 7’s AVAILABLE FOR FAMILY PARTIES Visit our website for timetable details and for more information

See “Nought To Ten’s” fantastic Christmas range of character pyjamas from just £4.95 a pair.

www.numbersevenboattrips.co.uk We offer the best value in public and private hire boat trips

Telephone 0117 929 3659 or 07976 554024

A wide choice to suit every child, traditional favourites and current trends. Latest best sellers, Ben10 and Night Garden. Free postage and packaging.

www.noughttoten.co.uk 14 • Handprints Magazine • Nov 2009-Feb 2010 Handprints 1009 Issue 5 AW.indd 14

Celebrating 10 successful years in Bristol!

www.handprintsmagazine.co.uk

A Guide to Life with Under 5’s 11/11/09 10:34:37

Professional, yet affordable Evening babysitters. Helping families within Bristol, Bath, Glos, Wilts. For more information please call Emma:

0117 2309053 info@elfsitters.co.uk www.elfsitters.co.uk Don’t forget to mention handprints Magazine when contacting advertisers Handprints 1009 Issue 5 AW.indd 15

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ActiVities

Out and about for Christmas and new year Our newest recruit, Rachel Shadbolt has been busy finding out what’s going on in and around Bristol for little ones and their families over the Holiday Season. Here are some of the best activities for you all to enjoy.

AVON VALLEy RAILWAy Santa Specials – see website for dates and times, 29th Nov – 24th Dec www.avonvalleyrailway.org tel: 0117 9327296 HORSEWORLD Christmas meals – 2nd Dec to 18th Dec, Children’s Christmas Party for 3-9 year olds – 12th Dec 2009 Carol Service – 6th Dec www.horseworld.org.uk tel: 01275 832425 NOAH’S ARK zOO fARM Nativity Plays – 5th, 12th & 19th Dec www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk tel: 01275 852606 SS gREAT BRITAIN Christmas Lunch in the first Class Dining Saloon and opportunity to explore – December 16th Tickets cost £29.95 adult, £14.95 child Christmas Party – Dec 9th, 10th, 16th & 17th – includes a three-course dinner, plus music and casino – cost £49.50 A Victorian Christmas – Dec 5th & 12th gorgeous gift-making workshops, carols, roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, plus father Christmas – included in admission price www.ssgreatbritain.org tel: 0117 9260680 LONgLEAT 5th Dec – Carol Singing Workshops 6th Dec – Santa fun Run www.longleat.co.uk tel: 01985 844400

MOTIVATION – INTERNATIONAL DISABILITy CHARITy Motivation Winter Ball – feb 27th 2010, The Pump Room, Bath £65 per ticket if booking and payment before 11th December 2009 www.motivation.org.uk tel: 01275 464012 WEST MIDLANDS SAfARI PARK 1st Dec – 24th Dec Santa Safari Party Caribbean Style at Christmas www.wmsp.co.uk tel: 01299 402114 THE MALL – CRIBBS CAuSEWAy Christmas Market & Winter Wonderland 12th November to 3rd January Christmas Lights Turn on – 12th November at 17:45 www.mallcribbs.com tel: 0117 9030303 BRISTOL OLD VIC 4th Dec to 23rd January – Hansel & gretel 15th Dec to 10th January – How cold my toes – for ages 2 and up www.bristololdvic.org.uk tel: 0117 9877877 CABOT CIRCuS Lights Turn On Thurs 12th November @ 5.30pm german Market in Quakers friars – 6pm www.cabotcircus.com tel: 0117 9529360 WESTON SuPER MARE PLAyHOuSE 14th Dec to 10th Jan – Snow White www.theplayhouse.co.uk tel: 01934 645544

Why not enjoy a great day out and tell us all about your visit on www.handprintsmagazine.co.uk. Don’t forget to let everyone know you read about them in handprints Magazine – your guide to life with under 5’s. A Guide to Life with Under 5’s 16 • Handprints Magazine • Nov 2009-Feb 2010 www.handprintsmagazine.co.uk Handprints 1009 Issue 5 AW.indd 16

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Groovy Babies! The ultimate disco experience for 0 – 7 year olds

BRISTOL HIPPODROME 29th Nov – Chuckle Brothers, A Christmas Chuckle 11th Dec to 10th Jan – Snow White 13th Jan – 30th Jan – Chitty Chitty Bang Bang www.bristolhippodrome.org.uk tel: 0117 3023333 THEATRE ROyAL BATH 1st Dec – 5th Dec – Disney’s Beauty & the Beast 17th Dec – 24th Jan – Sleeping Beauty www.theatreroyal.org.uk tel: 01225 448844

O2 Academy Bristol (Frogmore Street BS1) Saturday 5th December 2pm – 5pm * Disco tunes for mini groovers and movers * Chill out room for sitters and crawlers * Cash bar for mummies and daddies!

£5 for adults and little walkers £2 for non-walkers

Purchase tickets at www.ticketweb.co.uk or call 0844 477 2000 and quote Groovy Babies All Groovy Babies must be accompanied by an adult. Further details, directions, terms & conditions can be found at www.mstherapybristol.org.uk/groovybabies

sponsored by

In support of the West of England MS Therapy Centre: charity number 801155

WOOKEy HOLE Santa Land and Christmas Circus – selected dates between 21st Nov & 3rd Jan www.wookey.co.uk tel: 01749 672243 WESTONBIRT ARBORETuM 1st December – Lost Reindeer Trail 5th December – Tree Dressing www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt tel: 01666 880220

Give THe GiFT oF PoTTeRy THiS CHRiSTMaS Hand painted pottery from Flying Saucers makes perfect presents!!! if you have little ones then hand or footprints certainly make the ideal family gift. Why not get in early before the rush? you’ll be calmer and more creative and have your pottery back in plenty of time, helping you to avoid shopping nightmares later. For details of our Toddler Tuesday offer visit www.ﬂyingsaucers.co.uk/dev /Toddler_Tuesdays/

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CHRISTMAS MARKET 14th November 1pm - 4pm The Old School Rooms, Stoke gifford gIfTS & CRAfT fAIR fOR XMAS Sunday 15 November 2009 11am – 2.30pm Emersons green Village Hall SOuTH gLOuCESTERSHIRE NCT NEARLy NEW SALE Sunday 22 November 2009 11.30am - 1.30pm Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre EMERSONS gREEN PRIMARy SCHOOL CHRISTMAS fAIR friday 4th December, guest Avenue, Emersons green SILVERHILL SCHOOL CHRISTMAS BIzARRE Saturday 5th December 11am - 3pm Swan Lane, Winterbourne HENLEAzE CHRISTMAS fESTIVAL Thurs 10th December 3pm-8.30pm

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easy Peasy Playdough from Handprints Baby and Toddler Groups

ayley Batty, who has recently taken over Handprints sessions in Stoke gifford has given us a great tip to keep the kids busy over the winter months Easy Peasy Playdough costs pennies and takes minutes honestly!

Plain flour 1 cup water 1cup oil 1 tbsp salt 1/2 cup cream of tartar 1tsp healthy dollop of food colouring glitter - optional

Mix altogether in non stick pan (I did it with a manual whisk to begin with to get rid of lumps) then keep stirring over very gentle heat until it starts to turn into playdough - just move it around whilst in final dough stages until all stuck together and it’s done!!! 5 mins tops including tidying up!! It does smell a bit weird but someone told me you can add food flavouring such as lemon, orange or strawberry to make it a bit nicer! You can also add glitter to make it a bit special...what about making some Christmas playdough and go over the top with the glitter and sparkle and post photos of your little ones seasonal designs to www.handprintsmagazine.co.uk Handprints Baby and Toddler Groups run in little Stoke, Bradley Stoke, Stoke Gifford and Filton every day of the week. Warm & friendly atmosphere, free tea & filter coffee served throughout Home-made cakes, Wide variety of toys, story telling, song-time www.myhandprints.co.uk 01454 612128

Event highlights this winter… November - February - Commentated wild bird feeds, floodlit swan feeds and private swan suppers - visit the website for details. Sat 28 & Sun 29 November - family See thousands of Victorian-themed Christmas shopping day. wintering birds, Browse an array of stalls selling everything from including the beautiful and unusual gifts and decorations for the home to the very best in local festive produce.* enchanting Bewick’s swans and don’t Also enjoy… • seasonal arts and crafts miss one of nature’s • Gloucester Folk Museum’s Victorian classroom display most breathtaking • Mother Goose flying through with gifts and surprises spectacles! • the twelve days of Christmas trail (19 Dec – 4 Jan). *Normal admission rates apply. Winter opening hours are 9.30am–5pm.

For more details visit wwt.org.uk/ slimbridge or call 01453 891900

Slimbridge

Wetland Centre

Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT

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A Guide to Life with Under 5’s 2/11/09 12:23:32 11/11/09 10:34:47

Mastering the 3Rs - Japanese-style

any parents are signing their children up to after-school study centres to help consolidate their learning of the 3Rs, using a method that originated in Japan. Kumon focuses on going back to basics in Maths and English. Growing numbers of parents are concerned with their children’s standards of numeracy and literacy, so are turning to organisations offering supplementary education. Kumon heralds a return to traditional teaching methods, including learning maths without calculators. Founded in Japan by a teacher in the 1950s, the study programme is attracting families who believe their children lack a proper grounding in maths and English, as well as those with high-flyers not being stretched sufficiently. Currently over 50,000 students are enrolled at over 550 centres throughout the UK. Children are given an initial assessment to gauge their knowledge, then receive worksheets aimed at

their ability level, not their age. Only when they have mastered each level can they move on. Children visit their local centre twice a week, where they complete their classwork, receive help and agree targets with their Instructor. When not at the centre, they spend between 10 and 20 minutes on their daily homework. The emphasis is on little and often, instead of much longer sessions utilised by private tutors. The programmes are designed to provide the key tools that children need to succeed in their academic careers. The stress is very much placed on the longterm with many children studying from primary school right through to GCSE level and beyond. Kumon will be offering a two week Free Trial from January 21st to February 20th. Please see the Kumon advert within this edition for contact details or alternatively call 0800 854714 for more information.

Bradley Stoke: 0117 908 1992 Bristol Henleaze: 0117 982 9515 Bristol Redland: 0117 924 1557 Kingswood: 01454 202 458

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Nov 2009-Feb 2010 • Handprints Magazine • 19 11/11/09 10:34:47

MATERNITY

REFLEXOLOGY will help harmonise and balance before, during and after pregnancy • Do you feel stressed? • Trying for a baby? • Feeling tired, have swollen feet or ankles? • Are you lacking in energy since the birth of your baby?

Reflexology can help! This wonderful and natural therapy helps the body restore equilibrium and harmonise the body’s fine balance. It can help with many of the discomforts throughout pregnancy – backache, pelvic pain, heart burn, constipation and oedema as well as other conditions, whether chronic or acute.

Please call or visit the website to discuss how I can help you.

T. 07834 884107 www.kfreflexology.co.uk

10% off your first treatment with this advert.

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A Guide to Life with Under 5’s 11/11/09 10:34:49

There is a warm welcome for everyone at Playfull Toyshop on the Gloucester Rd in Bishopston. We have now been in business for more than 5 years and people are still discovering us all the time. We specialise in sustainably made toys, games, and art and craft mainly sourced in Europe – from Germany, France and Sweden. We have also found suppliers in the UK – for instance wooden bows and arrows from Wiltshire and pull-along toys from Yorkshire – even a few crafts people in Bristol. Here are just a few of our ideas for good/groovy/funky/interesting Christmas gifts:

sustainably sourced wooden toys books,puzzles,games, craft and art kits. many european suppliers children’s play area

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87,Gloucester Road,Bishopston.BS7 8AS 01179446767 playfullkp@hotmail.com

0-6 months – soft rattles and cuddly comforters from about £6.00 6-18 months – wooden grabbing toys- stacking boxes and push/pull along toys from £7.00 2-3 years – board books – puzzles – musical toys – hand-made wooden animals from £5.00 3-5 years – large role-play toys such as dolls-houses, garages, cookers, fire-engines and tractors from about £20.00 5-7 years – creative art kits – real brick building kits – story books (often with CDs) from about £10.00 7 and up to 10+ – cable-car kits – craft and felting kits – great world music CDs – Co-operative games – card and board games – illustrated books from about £10.00 We are stockists of: HABA DJECO USBORNE PUTUMAYO SELECTA KATHE KRUSE BAREFOOT BRIO KLUTZ PLAN TOYS and many more. Opening hours – 9.30-5.30 Mon – Sat.

Anything is possible in the magical world of stories and at Debutots Early Years Drama we know how to nurture young imaginations so that through creative play, children can make sense of the very big world they live in. Our popular weekly classes are a blend of interactive storytelling and dramatic play designed to fire budding imaginations, build children’s self confidence and help develop their communication skills. Join our baby story play classes, perfect for tiny tots under 2 or weekday Early Years Drama Classes for preschool age 2 – 4 or Saturday classes where we enjoy a drop off session for 4 – 7 year olds and a great family class for under 4’s when parents have just as much fun and laugh as much as their little ones.

Debutots now has classes in more venues in Bristol and South Gloucestershire. In January classes will be available in Henleaze, Bradley Stoke, Filton, Thornbury with more planned throughout the year. You can find out more about our classes and parties from Lucy on 01454 612063 or email lucy@debutots.co.uk or look at our website www.debutots.co.uk We are also recruiting for grown up Drama Kings and Queens so if you think you have got what it takes to become a Debutots practitioner or party entertainer get in touch with Lucy.

For further information contact lucy on 01454 612063 or email lucy@debutots.co.uk

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Does your child love stories and imaginary play? Could they help Brand New Bear meet his toy box friends or save the rainforest with Milly Macaw or even make lattes with a cow!

Little ones can explore the magical world of stories and drama with

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FROMESIDE GYMNASTICS CLUB WATLEYS END ROAD, WINTERBOURNE BS36 1QG

OpEN TO ALL

pre school classes for balance, co-ordination, fitness and fun

Tuseday morning from walking to age 4 (3 classes) Wednesday morning from walking to age 4 (3 classes) Monday 2pm ages 3 and 4 Friday 2pm ages 3 and 4 Recreational classes available every evening and Sat morning for school age children Adult classes mon 9 - 10 pm Over 50s keep fit Friday 10 - 11 am

Phone for more details on 01454 776873, or just turn up for a trial session. office@fromesidegym.co.uk 22 • Handprints Magazine • Nov 2009-Feb 2010 Handprints 1009 Issue 5 AW.indd 22

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A Guide to Life with Under 5’s 11/11/09 10:35:00

Relaxed and easy-going, Halo is so laid back it feels like a Sunday Morning every day. It’s the sort of place you can bring the family to and know that everyone will be comfortable, from Great-Gran to the new babe-in-arms. “AN ATMOSPHERE SO RELAXED ITS ALMOST HORIZONTAL” (Bristol Evening Post)

10% Discount for Handprints Readers 141 Gloucester Rd, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 8BA Tel: 0117 944 2504 www.halobristol.co.uk Don’t forget to mention handprints Magazine when contacting advertisers Handprints 1009 Issue 5 AW.indd 23

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Filton Sports and Leisure Centre (Dolphin Pool) Elm Park, Filton (Just off the A38 behind Filton Police Station)

Enjoy our 2 swimming pools, our learner pool offers a great environment for young children to enjoy swimming. Book on to our swimming lessons, classes run for those aged 3 and over or book a children’s party, We offer the following parties:bouncy castle, soft play, pedal go karts, swimming or walk on water without getting wet in our Waterwalkerz (the only venue in Bristol to offer this party)

For more details call us on 01454 866686 or visit www.filton-town-council.co.uk

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Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, Elm Park, Filton is operated independently by Filton Town Council. We are open 7 days a week and our facilities include the Dolphin Pool (2 swimming pools), The Ratepayers Arms pub, badminton court, soft play area, squash court and 2 outdoor floodlit football/tennis courts. We run a swim school for over 800 children a week with classes catering for babies through to competition standard swimmers. We are the only pool in the Bristol area to offer the chance to walk on water without getting wet in our WATERWALKERZ parties and fun sessions. We also offer children’s parties in the following activities; Pedal Go karting, Swimming, Softplay and Bouncy Castle. In the Ratepayers Arms pub we offer free wifi and a big screen for sports events as well as offering 2 snooker tables, a skittle alley and function hall. For further information about all our facilities please call 01454 866686 or visit www.filton-town-council.co.uk

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A Guide to Life with Under 5’s 11/11/09 10:35:02

Yummy Mummy’s Hair & Beauty If you have not heard about this salon yet you are in for a treat! Its the salon that caters for you and your children. Free kids play area, Princess pamper parties, Kids cuts £5 (under 9’s), Creative cutting and speacialist colour technician, Threading. Handprints Magazine Readers can get 20% off one treatment using the voucher in our magazine!

23c Felix Court, Downend Road, Kingswood, Bristol, BS15 1RT 0117 967 6461 www.yummymummysltd.co.uk

The Village Pottery   Are you missing out?

Pottery Lessons Baby Feet Imprinting Birth Plates/ Christening gifts The Village Pottery 70 Princess Victoria St, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4DD 0117 973 4343 www.thevillagepottery.co.uk

Does the Welfare system seem like a minefield? Think you could be entitled but don’t know how to go about it? South Gloucestershire Welfare & Debt advice team can help you with FREE impartial & confidential advice Help with means tested benefits, benefits if you are sick or disabled, benefits if you are pregnant For Debt Advice 01454 864191 For Welfare Advice 01454 865245 Email: welfareadvice@southglos.gov.uk

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Want to “green” your home or business?

Want to save money?

Worried by new energy & carbon legislation?

Planning an extension or a refurbishment?

Want to get an Eco-schools green flag?

We are a local business offering a personalised service. Contact Steve or Tracy for a free, no obligation chat. 0117 985 6640 question@taintonsds.co.uk www.taintonsds.co.uk

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A Guide to Life with Under 5’s 11/11/09 10:35:03

directory nurseries & Pre-schools Alveston St Helen’s Pre-School, Jubilee Hall, Greenhill Rd, Alveston - 07717216762 Natural Choice Nurseries, 27 Davids Lane, Alveston - 01454 419419

henleaze

Abacus Pre-School, Village Hall, Emerson’s Way - 01454 867285 Leapfrog Day Nursery, St Lukes Close 0117 9568222

Busy Bees Pre-School, St Peters Church Hall, The Drive - 07949 225350

Filton

Lake House Nursery, Lake Road 0117 9622948 or 9445963

Abbey Wood Tots Day Nursery, College Way, Filton - 0117 9693990

Toy Box Nursery, The Drive, Henleaze 0117 9623010

Horfield

Bishopston

Priory Day Nursery School, 99 Gloucester Road North, Filton 0117 9692503

Clyde House Day Nursery, 1 Nevil Rd, Bishopston, BS7 9EG - 01179247488

Filton Park Pre-School, Charborough Rd, Filton - 01454 866580

Magic Dragon Pre-School, Bishopston, Bristol - 0117 9243446

fishponds

Ashley down Ashgrove Park Day Nursery, 60 Ashgrove Rd, Ashley Down, Bristol - 0117 9513123

Brentry

Fledglings Day Nursery, Oldbury Court Road - 0117 9393398

Once Upon A Time Day Nursery - Brentry - 0117 9504529

St Joseph’s Pre-School, St Josephs Church Hall, Forest Road - 0117 9147173

chipping sodbury

Stepping Stones Day Nursery, Hawkesbury Road - 0117 9657269

Raysfield Pre-School Playgroup, Doddington Parish Hall, Finch Road 01454 324688 First Steps Day Nursery, The Cotswold Education Centre (Building B), Hounds Road - 01454 850134

clifton Woodlands House Nursery, Clifton, Bristol - 0117 9467145

cotham Archfield House Nursery, Cotham 0117 9422120

downend St Augustines Pre-School, Boscombe Crescent - 0117 9561166

fraMpton cottErell Zion Community Pre-school, Woodend Rd, Frampton Cotterell - 01454 858822 100 Acre Wood Day Nursey, 149 Church Road, Frampton Cotterell - 01454 872117 The Cottage Day Nursey, 3 Lower Stone Close, Frampton Cotterell 01454 777900 Crossbow Pre-School, St Peters Hall, School Rd, Frampton Cotterell 07928381976

Bluebells Pre-School, Shield Rd Primary School, Shields Ave, Northville, Bristol, BS70RR - 01454 867189 Horfield Welly Pre-School, Parish Hall, Wellington Hill, Horfield, Bristol, BS7 8ST - 07837 133925 Upper Horfield Childrens Centre & Community School 0-11yrs, Sheridan Road, Horfield - 0117 9031281 Honey Tree Day Nursery, C/O Monks Park School, Filton Rd, Horfield 0117 9314650

kingswood Apple Tree Pre-School, Deers Lodge, Deerhurst, Kingswood - 07765 436634 Baby Sensory - KCA, High Street, Kingswood - 0117 9674120 Courtney Ladybirds Pre-school, Courtney Rd Primary school, Kingswood 0117 3308049 Hillside Day Nursery - Potters Wood, Britannia Rd, Kingswood - 0117 9604330

frenchay Squirrel Tree Nursery, Frenchay Hospital, Frenchay - 01179 753862

hambrook

Hokey Cokey Group - KCA, High Street, Kingswood - 0117 9674120 KCA Pre-school Alliance - High Street, Kingswood - 0117 9674120

Badminton Road Pre-School, Badminton Road - 0117 9562347

Tiggers Tree House - Hambrook 0117 9572171

Stanbridge Pre-School, Stanbridge Road 0117 9575152

Little Acorns Day Nursey, 55 New Cheltenham Rd, Kingswood 0117 9606537

hanham

Little Donkey Day Care - Bridge Rd, Kingswood - 0117 9575900

Sunbeams Day Nursery, Dibden Road 0117 9566060 Great Expectations Day Nursery, Baugh Road - 0117 9561632 Great Expectations(Baby Unit), Baugh Road - 07853824121

emersons Green

Christchurch Pre-School, Christ Church Hall, Church Rd, Hanham 07752 918789 Tiny Tots Day Nursery & Sunny View 128-130 High Street - 01179 475436

Orchard Lea Nursery - 156a Burchells Green Rd, Kingswood - 0117 9353863

Hanham Toddlers Pre-School, Hanham Methodist Church, Lower Chapel Rd, Hanham - 01179082406

Our Lady of Lourdes Pre-School - 2 Court Rd, Kingswood, Bristol, BS15 9QB 0117 9872027

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Magic Rocket Nursery - 43 Britannia Rd, Kingswood - 0117 9352222

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