April 2014 Parent Talk

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Clubs & Classes Schools Events Reviews Essential reading for parents and grandparents in Somerset

April 2014 Volume 19 Issue 4

WIN a family break

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a trip to Longleat

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Tamsin Humphreys Juliet Young Sarah Harmer 23rd April 2014

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Dear Readers...

Welcome to our Easter issue and this month you’ll see we’re giving you plenty of ideas for Easter activities on our Pinterest pages. We’ve included a few to give you a taster of the sort of things you can do across the holidays and believe me, they’re mainly pretty easy – EVEN for someone like me who’s totally lacking in the arts and crafts department. There are also some wonderful family days out to enjoy from medieval fayres to Charlie and Lola’s ‘Best Bestest Play’ – some of my favourites in children’s literature. If you’re itching to get the kids outside after one of the wettest springs on record, then there are plenty of courses and adventure days on offer. Of course, it’s also that time of the year for hunting ….EASTER EGGS and there are some fantastic egg trails around so read on…

With best wishes for a very Happy Easter,

Tamsin Editor

Parent Talk PO Box 889, Taunton TA1 9HU

Tel: 01458 241318 email: sales@parenttalk.org.uk Disclaimer: The editorial and advertising content of this publication does not imply endorsement of them by Parent Talk. Nor can Parent Talk be held responsible for any actions or consequences arising from contact between reader and advertiser. Readers are therefore advised to check carefully, any references, professional qualifications and stated membership of professional bodies before entering into contracts or making arrangements to use a service featured herein.

Heroes & Villains fancy dress

easter egg h u nt good friday 18 april

11am-4pm. advance tickets £4/child. adults free.

Entry includes

egg hunt & easter egg unlimited play on our climBing Buy tickets frames, sWings & trampolines toy-barn.co.uk prize for Best dressed child at the shop or tea, coffee & cakes on telephone sale in aid of samaritans 01935 815040

www.toy-barn.co.uk

Parent Talk April 2014

3

Sunrise Celebration ‘Back to Our Roots’ with those Sunrise good vibes. The festival is all about participation and co-creation. It’s your chance to get enthused, empowered, illuminated, connected and skilled-up.

2014 sees us at a brand new home at the Chepstow Estate, near Bristol. It’s the perfect Sunrise site with idyllic country parkland and an awe-inspiring view across the Severn bridges.

The All Good Things Arena is the 2014 home to our main indoor stage, Chai Wallahs with their incredible roster of emerging artists hosted in a spectacular environment. The line up includes: The Mouse Outfit ft Dr Syntax & Sparks, Jungle By Night, MC Xander,

29th May -1st June 2014 Joe Driscoll & Sekou Kouyate, Sheelanagig, DJ Skitz, The Allergies and Wrongtom.

The Sundance Arena will feature the Waveform stage, hosted by the Eartheart

Dragon and working together with Illuminaughty, Tribe of Frog, Love of Dub and Gaia

Chill to bring you the very best psychedelic music Britain has to offer. Plus The Up Rising Stage with GIVE Festival, Love Dance, Inspiral Lounge and Eden/Triplicity with visionary art gallery and finally Cats Cradle, Live Electronica stage.

Introducing the new Eden Village with the folk based Spit and Sawdust Stage, hands-on workshops, talks, kids area, music and dance, wilderness skills workshops for all ages and Forest School for children.

Plus a series of magnificent talks on esoteric topics will be hosted by internationally acclaimed astrologer Jonathan Cainer.

Full line up of music, workshops and talks at: www.sunrisecelebration.com

Happy Children means Happy Parents…

By Juliet Young

Modern day living and work pressures take their toll on any family, and our family is no different!

After weeks of flooding on the levels and long detours to school, we all desperately needed some serious down time together.

Along Cornwall’s picturesque north coast, the Sands Resort Hotel & Spa was the perfect hotel, overlooking golden beaches at Porth and nearby Watergate Bay and offering a huge amount of activities for families of all ages.

We were greeted by the very friendly staff in the brightly furnished reception and shown to our suite. We had a modern airy room for the adults with good sized bed, flat-screen TV with DVD and games console, shared bathroom and separate room for the children with in-room baby monitoring/ listening service.

What makes this hotel stand out from the others - is the fantastic facilities for children from babies to teenagers. There are very well equipped OFSTED approved kids’ clubs for different ages

from 6 months -12 years (with kids’ evening entertainment and hobby club in the holidays), soft play area, games room, lovely warm indoor pool with an opportunity to try scuba diving for the older kids, and a steam room and a separate toddler pool.

Outside we got lost in the maize, discovered what a demon croquet player my daughter is, jumped on the zip wire, bounced on the bouncy castle, played in the adventure playground and pirate ship and laughed and laughed a lot! There is also an outdoor pool with separate toddler pool and slide, adult tennis court and junior court, football pitch, and basketball. Free use of wetsuits and body boards to take to the beach are also available and a 9 hole pitch and putt course caused us a great amount of entertainment, although I don’t think Tiger Woods would have been very impressed!

In the modern restaurant overlooking the sea, dinner is also geared around families.

High tea is available for

children, or family dining for those who want to eat with their little ones, quiet dinner for those who want to eat with older children and couples dining for those who want to eat in a child free area. Our three course dinner, although a small menu, was very well presented and very tasty.

The bar area also provided complimentary tea and coffee and squash throughout the day and a plate of cakes for anyone who needed a snack.

This resulted in me having to get up early to redeem myself in the fabulously well equipped gym the following morning, before heading down to a lovely cooked breakfast followed by croissant and fresh fruit salad!

We spoilt ourselves to a treatment in the lovely Ocean Breeze Health & Beauty Spa, the youngsters

enjoying a teenage facial and the adults put through their paces with a seriously good massage! I think I came out at least an inch taller! The hotel staff were lovely. From reception, to restaurant to the housekeeping, everyone was friendly and helpful with nothing too much trouble.

Overall the hotel is well presented in the main areas, with the odd corridor needing a lick of paint but the relief to find somewhere that your children can just be children, without feeling stressed out worrying what they might do, makes this a truly wonderful holiday. And as I said before, having happy children means happy parents…

For more information www. sandsresort.co.uk For your chance to win a family break at the Sands Resort, please turn to page 22.

Good Friday: Charity Easter egg hunt at The Toy Barn Sherborne-based toy shop The Toy Barn will be hosting an Easter egg hunt with a ‘heroes and villains’ fancy dress theme on Good Friday, 18th April 2014, from 11am to 4pm.

Tickets, which cost £4 per child in advance (£5 on the door), include an egg hunt, chocolate Easter egg and unlimited play on the climbing frames, swings, trampolines and wendy houses in the display and play orchard.

Children should come dressed as a hero or villain character, from the Wicked Witch of the West to your local bobby to Superman or Joan of

Ark. There will be a prize for the best-dressed child.

Adult entry is free and there will be tea, coffee and cakes on sale with proceeds going to The Samaritans.

The Toy Barn has the largest display of climbing frames and trampolines in the south west.

Children can play on these between the Easter egg hunts, while the parents enjoy a cup of tea. There is an egg hunt every hour on the hour from 11am.

Buy your advance tickets online at toy-barn.co.uk, pop into the shop at Blackmarsh Farm, Sherborne, DT9 4JX or call 01935 815040.

The Toy Barn’s Easter Egg hunt in action last year (29 March 2013)

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Image courtesy Stefan Kliszynski Photography

Family Pages Out & About Book Bag News Education, Information Book Review Classified

FAMILY FAMILY FAMILY

4 Parent Talk April 2014

Family activities at Combe Sydenham Do you like to enjoy the countryside with your children?

Do you like them to be active?

Do you like to share activities with them? If your answer is yes to all three questions then we can help.

After 40 years of educational activities, we at Combe Sydenham have plenty of experience in making life interesting using both historical and natural environments.

The Elizabethan Gentleman’s country house and 500 acres of wooded hillsides with many clean water streams make an inspirational backdrop for educational and fun activities alike. Looking at life in the streams, making mosaics from natural materials, listening to and creating stories, den or dam building and many other activities are all available. It is your choice!

Contact us to discuss which of these you and your children would like or perhaps suggest

Stagecoach Yeovil are pleased to announce their open meeting on Friday 25th April at 5pm at St Michael’s Academy Yeovil. Open to both prospective students and parents you will be able to see something of your own. We like what Stagecoach has to offer, new ideas! Obviously with family meet our Principal Tracey, and groups the children will be of team of talented teachers who different ages; this has never will be on hand to answer any been a problem in the past as questions. we do not follow a set pattern At our recent inspection, and adapt to the children (and we were delighted to hear adults) in each group. We that the management of the design our half days to suit school, quality of teaching children from all age groups and pupils response were of from 3 (or even younger) to an outstanding standard. Our 103. If you are unable to get a school is open to everyone sufficient number for a group of between the ages of 4 and 18, your own, ring us to find out if no experience is needed, just there is a group already booked enthusiasm for the performing with whom you could join. arts.

Activities available throughout Easter, half-term and summer holidays. Telephone 0800 7838572.

Children’s cookery courses Cooking is a great way to entertain the children whilst they are learning skills they can use for the rest of their lives. The menus are designed to teach good basic skills in preparing a three course meal which the children will then sit down together and eat. We also make something fun for them to take home in their

CookAbility Fun and Flexible residential cookery courses

Holiday Cooking Classes For Children 6th April 28th & 29th May 10am-2pm

Children love to cook and get messy. We teach them basic cookery skills whilst cooking a three course meal and include something fun for them to take home.

Cost is £15 or two for £25

Bishops Lydeard, Taunton 01823 432419

venetia@cookablilty.com www.cookability.com

goodie bag. The children have fun making lots of mess which we then deal with.

Cookability have been teaching cookery for over 16 years. Our passion is to encourage everyone to enjoy cooking and build up confidence in the kitchen. Research has shown that children who start to cook early in life will continue in later life.

We have classes during the holidays and half terms.

Children can also have their Birthday parties here. As some Mums have said “Easiest party ever”.

Please contact Venetia on 01823 432419 Email: venetia@cookability.com www.cookability.com

HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

Combe Sydenham, Monksilver, Taunton. TA4 4JG Actitivies for children of all ages and their families. Only cost is travel as Government scheme pays for visit.

Contact John 0800 7838572 bcsources@aol.com

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FAMILY FAMILY FAMILY New Studio for Just Dance Stagecoach Yeovil Open Meeting–Friday 25th April Stagecoach offers tuition in dance, singing and drama, small groups rotate throughout the session so by the end they have had an hour’s class in each discipline ensuring every child gets the most out of their experience by building life skills and confidence whilst having fun and making new friends.

For further information, please ring the Principal on 01935 475929 or just turn up to our open meeting on Friday 25th April at 5pm at St Michael’s Academy in Yeovil.

Applications can also be made on-line at our website www.stagecoach.co.uk / Yeovil or by ringing 01935 475929, deposit periods are available on request for your child to try Stagecoach before you commit to a term.

Ballet Tap Irish Dancing Streetdance Parties Chasamba Gymnastics 07901 553602

www.just-dance-studio.co.uk

There will be lots of activities available in half term and the holidays. There will be dance workshops, craft activities and more. Keep checking the website or Facebook for more details.

Just Dance Parties will provide a party to remember!

With dance parties and themed parties, we are also able to provide all the food, birthday cake and party bags, as well as the fun and games!

Our face painters also add to the occasion and with our own premises, we can cater for a huge variety of themes with props and scenery. www.just-dance-studios.co.uk www.just-dance-parties.co.uk Facebook – Just Dance Wincanton

Local children win talent show contest and scholarships Granny a Very Happy Bunny on Holiday It has just been announced that William Markendale, age 8, from Gillingham, James Bamford, 10, from Yeovil and Emma Davies, 10, from Moorlinch have been declared as the winners of the scholarships offered at Razz’s Got Talent, a talent show from the Dragons’ Den backed theatre school business.

William was praised for his unique puppetry performance.

Judges were particularly impressed by his maturity and the fantastic concept.

James’ drama monologue and dance from Grease both demonstrated incredible performance levels, while Emma’s song ‘Let it Go’ from Frozen was sung beautifully, unaccompanied. “It wasn’t just about the overall performance, we were looking for originality in performing arts and for that real star quality,” says Claire Walford, Principal of Razzamataz Yeovil & Street.

The experience of taking part in the talent contest was really positive for William as he explained: “Razz’s Got Talent was a really fun thing to do and I put a lot of hard work into devising my audition piece. A love of puppetry is somewhat unusual for an 8 year old boy, but the scholarship has shown me that there’s nothing wrong with unusual. In fact sometimes

it can help you stand out from the crowd.”

As one of the fastest growing part-time theatre schools in the UK, Razzamataz offers a wide range of performing arts styles for children age 2-18 including dance, drama and singing, and the curriculum covers the whole of the performing arts, from classic West End musical theatre to street dance and pop singing.

There is currently the opportunity to book a FREE trial session on a strictly first come first served basis. For more information about the schools email yeovil@razzamataz. co.uk or street@razzamataz. co.uk or call Claire on 01935 411128. Alternatively visit www.razzamataz.co.uk

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JUST DANCE STUDIO & ACTIVITY CENTRE

Just Dance has had a great 6 months in their new studio. As well as the already established classes: Ballet, Tap and Streetdance, some new classes have started. If you like Strictly, then you’ll love Chasamba! Chasamba fitness combines Ballroom and Latin dance in to a fantastic and fun class.

Irish dance classes are proving very popular. With obesity in children on the rise, Irish dancing is a great way of getting a cardiovascular workout while building on stamina, rhythm and memory skills. There are opportunities to display dances for public events and to enter competitions gaining recognition for effort and performance. It’s available for girls, boys and adults.

Just Dance have added Gymnastic classes to the timetable this year. Toddler gym will include lots of climbing and tumbling. Pre-school and age 4+ gym classes will follow the Winstrada syllabus, with children learning to roll, jump, etc.

“I wish you could have seen the kids running in and out, yes, out into the rain through the French windows, squealing with glee” writes a grandma on holiday at Torridge House Cottages in Devon. Sentiments endorsed by other grannies and grandpas there with their families: “truly exceptional & magical surroundings” “everyone thoughtfully catered for” “fantastic” “fantastic” “perfect” “a wonderful setup and all the facilities make holidaying with small children so easy.”

Popular with all who stay at Torridge House Cottages, enjoying comfortable cottages, lovely situation, amazing animals and joining in to help look after and cuddle the little animals and feed the larger ones.

With sandy beaches, countryside walks, cycling, seaside towns, market towns, fishing villages, great attractions all within easy reach, there is plenty to do.

It is also lovely to relax at Torridge House Cottages. It is an escape from the bustle of everyday life to self-catering

cottages with something for everyone.

The gardens are just right for playing in. The kittens are beautiful and playful, the ducklings delightful, the chicks are cosy under their heat lamp, the baby bunnies are peeping out waiting for cuddles and the mice are looking for people to be friends with. The pony is great to look at, the pigs are a joy to feed and Mr Goose and his ducks are so pleased to see everyone.

At Torridge House Cottages in the heart of Devon’s countryside you will find an easygoing friendly atmosphere with lots of extras. For more details www.torridgehouse.co.uk or 01805 622542

Family Farm Holidays

The ideal place for children aged 4 - 18, with an interest in performing arts to learn about POP SINGING, STREET DANCE, DRAMA & MIME, MUSICAL THEATRE SONG & DANCE AND PHYSICAL THEATRE!

Come along and join in the fun at Yeovil and Street!

For more information call Claire on 01935 411128 or 07856 273166 email: yeovil@razzamataz.co.uk or street@razzamataz.co.uk www.razzamataz.co.uk

In Glorious Devon welcoming comfortable cottages in an idylic setting

Join us on the farm, watch and help feed the animals.

Large gardens, play room, games room. Lots of play space.

Outdoor heated swimming pool.

Providing very special child friendly relaxing holidays for over 25 years. Highly recommended. ‘VisitBritain 3 & 4 star’

Torridge House Cottages Little Torrington, Devon 01805 622542 www.torridgehouse.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT

Spectacular family pantomime Tracy Beaker star Dani Harmer confirmed as Wendy alongside comedy legend Bobby Davro as Smee and Disney’s Lloyd Warbey as Peter Pan in the touring production of ‘Peter Pan’ coming to the area this Easter.

This April, Yeovil and Weymouth will host another Enchanted Entertainment Easter extravaganza; an all new, professional pantomime version of ‘Peter Pan’.

Enchanted Entertainment, producers of many popular family theatre shows nationwide, are planning another theatrical spectacular but this time at The Octagon Theatre on Sunday 13th April and Monday 14th April and then at Weymouth Pavilion on Tuesday 15th April as part of a large-scale national tour.

Enchanted Entertainment have assembled a fantastic cast and are planning some amazing flying special effects to ensure ‘Peter Pan’ will be a spectacular family pantomime with wonderful sets, brilliant costumes, high-octane dance routines and plenty of popular songs to please all ages!!

There will be 6 action-packed performances of ‘Peter Pan’

coming to the South West and the show includes a host of top quality professional performers including No. 1 children’s star Dani Harmer ‘Tracy Beaker’ in the iconic role of Wendy Darling. Dani

also reached the ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ Final recently and she will be joined in Neverland by comedy legend Bobby Davro as Smee and star of Disney’s ‘Art Attack’, Lloyd Warbey as Peter Pan.

Tickets are on sale and already selling fast. Call The Octagon Theatre box office on

01935 422884 or book online at www.octagon-theatre.co.uk alternatively call Weymouth Pavilion box office on 01305 783225 or book online at www.weymouthpavilion.com

Parent Talk April 2014

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Meet furry friends and reptiles at garden centre FAMILIES from Somerset can get up close to some furry friends and reptiles during two free events taking place at Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre this month.

People are invited to attend Rosa’s Roadshow on April 19 and on April 26 they can go along to ‘handle a pet’ sessions at the garden centre near Taunton.

Liz Woodward, Pet & Reptile Centre Manager at the garden centre in Monkton Heathfield, explained: “We really enjoy hosting our pet sessions and everyone who comes along can benefit from some great advice on caring for and looking after animals.

“On Saturday, April 19 our Pet Advisor, Rosa Nation will host Rosa’s Roadshow. The theme of the event is guinea pigs and people will be able to meet some and learn how to take care of them.

“We will also have a variety of furry friends for people to meet including rabbits during our handle a pet session on Saturday, April 26. Visitors can also handle some slippery snakes, spiders and lizards on the day.

“The aim of these sessions is to raise awareness of the importance of caring for animals as pets. It’s crucial

Rosa Nation, Pet Advisor at Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre, gets ready for her roadshow on April 19.

that people understand what they are taking on and really think about whether or not they can provide the proper methods of care.”

Visitors can drop into the

Pet & Reptile Centre at the award-winning, independent, family-run garden centre at any time on Saturday, April 19 and Saturday, April 26 from 11am until 4pm.

For more information, please call Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre, which is located just off the A38 at Monkton Heathfield between Bridgwater and Taunton, on 01823 412381, visit www.monktonelmgardencentre.co.uk, log on to www.facebook.com/Monktonelm or follow the company on Twitter by visiting www.twitter.com/Monktonelm.

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. MARKETS . THEATRES . FAIRS . FETES . SHOWS . EXHIBITIONS .

1st April: Heathfield’s Easter Concert. Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre, Taunton. This concert features the older musicians at Monkton Heathfield school in a programme fizzing with exciting vocal and instrumental renditions.

Expect vibrant performances including world premieres of the students’ own compositions.

01823 414141 3rd – 5th April: Shiny. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath. In a long forgotten room, two people find friendship, joy and treasures that turn from ordinary to extraordinary in this dazzling new show for children. Watch and play as all that glitters unfolds before your very eyes. Age: 6 months – 4 years.

01225 823409 5th – 6th April: Peter Pan by Dreams Productions. Regal Theatre, Minehead. Actors from the local community, children and adults, present this exciting, magical musical. 01643 706430 5th April: Taunton Concert Band’s Easter Spectacular.

Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre, Taunton.

Packed to the brim with big band classics and brand new numbers, this annual Easter concert is always a spectacular sell-out success!

01823 414141 6th April: Taunton Marathon and Half-Marathon. Somerset College, Taunton. Annual 26 mile and 13 mile road race around the town of Taunton and the surrounding countryside of the Deane. Race starts at 10.30am.

01823 283892 7th - 11th April: Easter Holiday Theatre School. TacchiMorris Arts Centre, Taunton. 9am - 3pm daily. Cube Theatre is back for another popular five day course of drama workshops, games and activities creating a special show in the Tacchi-Morris theatre for family and friends at the end of the week.

01823 414141 6th April: Bananas in Pyjamas. The Playhouse, Weston super Mare. 1pm. It’s Partytime in Cuddlestone Park but wait…the guest of honour’s gone missing. It’s a Banana emergency! Join B1, B2, Amy, Lulu and Morgan in this brand new, all-singing, all-dancing show with plenty of audience participation

the magdalen project Magdalen

the magdalen project Magdalen Fun packed adventure days

and slapstick fun…Can you help the Banana Detectives solve the case?

01934 645544 6th April: Cookery classes for children at Cookability, Bishops Lydeard. 10am – 2pm. See p4 for further details. 01823 432419 8th April: Easter Junior Chef.

Cook it @Frogmary Green Farm, South Petherton. 10am – 12 noon. An introduction to the kitchen environment focusing on fun, helping younger children learn their way around the kitchen. Age: 8 – 12 years. 01460 242775 9th April: Easter Activities at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells.

11am – 3pm. Drop in session in the Stable Yard at the Bishop’s Palace.

Make an Easter hat; a mini-basket; decorate your own Easter egg and make a mosaic egg. 01749 988111 10th April: Swan Lake. The Playhouse, Weston super Mare.

7.30pm. Vienna Festival Ballet return by popular demand to present one of the best known love stories of all time. Vienna Festival Ballet’s production, complete with lavish costumes, stunning scenery and the glorious music of Tchaikovsky make this an evening not to be missed. 01934 645544 10th – 12th April: Not Now Bernard. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath. “There’s a monster in the garden and it’s going to eat me,” said Bernard. Bernard’s got a problem. He’s found a monster in the back garden and his mum and dad are just too busy to notice.

So Bernard tries to befriend the monster…and that doesn’t quite go to plan. Loved by children, adults and monsters for over thirty years, David McKee’s iconic picture-book will be brought vividly to life on stage.

Age: 2+. 01225 823409 12th April: Meet and Greet Day with Wallace and Gromit.

West Somerset Railway, Bishops Lydeard. See p.11 for further details.

12th – 13th April: The Rural Living Show. King’s Hall, Taunton.

10am – 5pm Sat (4pm Sun). A spring garden show. The show will host a wide range of the fabulous crafts and innovations available in the South West, demonstrations, gardens and of course, our famous

Open Day Open Day

SPRING ON THE FARM

down on ON the farm.

Fun packed adventure days SPRING THEApril FARM12pm 27th 4pm 12pm 21st -April down on the farm.

“Spring on the Farm” Open Day for all the family

rd

- 4pm

3 April th Visit our lambs &Open ewes, calves & piglets. Feed 12 April3rd April Easter Kids Fun Days – Survival in the Wild “Spring on the Farm” Day for all the family th th 14 April EasterEaster Kids Fun Days – Farmers in Training ‘Monty’ the Barn 12 April Kids Fun Days – Survival in Owl. the WildGuided farm &

the chickens & meet nature tours.

14 April Easter Kids Fun Days – Farmers in Training Creative activities. Cook your own pizza and yummy Also available “Wild Birthday Parties” at dates & times to suit.

Also available “Wild Birthday Parties” at dates & times to suit.food. homecooked th

Environmental Educational Centre & OrganicTA20 Farm 4PA Environmental Educational Centre Magdalen Farm, Winsham, Chard, Somerset Environmental Educational Magdalen Farm,Centre Winsham, Chard, Somerset TA20 4PA and Organic Farm and Organic Farm Telephone: 01460 30144

Telephone: 01460 30144 Magdalen Farm Farm Winsham Chard Somerset 4PA Magdalen Winsham Chard SomersetTA20 TA20 4PA Telephone 0146001460 30144 Fax Fax 01460 30177 Telephone 30144 01460 30177 email: admin www.themagdalenproject.org.uk @themagdalenproject.org.uk e-mail e-mail admin@themagdalenproject.org.uk admin@themagdalenproject.org.uk Registered 1002373 RegisteredCharity Charity Number Number 1002373 www.themagdalenproject.org.uk www.themagdalenproject.org.uk

www.magdalenfarmevents.org.uk

Registered Charity Charity Number 1002373 Registered Number 1002373

Food Hall with its own exciting new café. Classic Car day on Sunday and NSPCC Fun Run. A great day out for all the family. 01823 323363 13th – 14th April: Peter Pan Easter Pantomime. The Octagon Theatre, Yeovil. Comedy legend Bobby Davro as Smee, Dani Harmer as Wendy. Join Wendy, Michael and John as they take off to Neverland with the boy who never grew up…

Peter Pan. See p5 for further details.

01935 422884 14th April: Curious Coins.

Family event at The Roman Baths, Bath. See p11 for further details.

14th April: Easter Activities at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells.

Holiday Herbs in the Community Garden. 12-2pm. Explore the herb beds and learn how they might have been used by the first bishops who lived here. Then have a go at planting some herbs yourself and see how they grow at home. 01749 988111 14th – 16th April: Mrs McMoon: the egg, Theatre Royal Bath. You have been cordially invited to Mrs McMoon’s house for an entertaining tea party. Please bring stupidity, madness and fun.

Set in the warm surroundings of her cosy old living room where tea is brewing and the smell of freshly baked cookies tickle your nostrils.

Let a sweet old lady take you by the hand to explore a world of brave and daring adventures. Age: 3-5 years.

01225 823409 14th – 16th April: Signor Baffo: the egg, Theatre Royal Bath. In this lively café, the children are in charge of the show. Signor Baffo is their lovable and eccentric chef, serving up generous helpings of silliness, mischief and adventure.

Children will be invited into the café with open arms, though it becomes quickly apparent that things don’t run as smoothly as Signor Baffo might like. Age: 5-8. 01225 823409 16th April: Easter Activities at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells.

11am – 3pm. Drop in session in the Stable Yard at the Bishop’s Palace.

Make Easter chick; Easter bunny mask; Bunny basket and decorate your own Easter Egg. 01749 988111 19th April: Spring Craft Fayre.

Nunney Village Hall, Nunney, Frome.

10am – 4pm. Jewellery, celebration cakes, james and preserves, handcrafted gifts, photography etc. Light refreshments available.

01373 473346 19th April: Easter Egg hunt.

Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Wraxall, Bristol. 01275 852606 19th – 20th April: Pinocchio. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath. Follow Pinocchio and his grasshopper friend as they set out on an adventure – to find some fun!

Now… if only his nose would just stay still! Hiccup Theatre join forces with acclaimed children’s writer Michael Rosen (‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’) to bring life a sparkling new version of this classic tale. Live music, puppetry, physical storytelling and longer and longer noses combine in a magical combination for children and their grown ups.

Age: 4+. 01225 823409 19th – 20th April: Glastonbury Medieval Fayre. 10am – 6pm.

Glastonbury Abbey, Glastonbury.

Fantastic day out for all the family.

See p11 for further details. 01458 830833

24th – 27th April: How Cold My Toes. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath.

Award-winning theatre company Travelling Light packs a whole year into one enchanting hour in this exciting piece of dancetheatre for the very young. The show takes you on a fun-filled magical journey through the seasons, from the seed-sprouting vitality of spring all the way to the frosty frozen fingers of winter. Both children and adults will be captivated by the combination of Travelling Light’s renowned brand of performance, music and design with amazing urban choreography. Winter’s never been this hot, summer’s never been this cool… Age: 2-5.

01225 823409 26th April: Levels’ Best Farmers’ Market.

Stable courtyard at Monatcute House, nr Yeovil. 10am – 2pm. Wide selection of stalls selling a variety of fresh, artisan and traditionally-made food and drink.

27th April: Weston Youth Orchestra.

The Playhouse, Weston super Mare. Weston Youth Orchestra return to The Playhouse for their ever popular annual Spring concert. The programme will feature both the Junior and Senior Orchestras performing a variety of Classical works as well as other popular and well known orchestral music. We are also pleased to feature some of our more accomplished young musicians as soloists. 01934 645544 30th April: Doug Allan: In the Company of Giants. The Octagon Theatre, Yeovil. “My passion lies with the big animals” – that’s how multiaward winning cameraman Doug Allan (‘Blue Planet’ ‘Planet Earth’ ‘Ocean Giants’ ‘Wild Cameraman at Work’ introduces his new show ‘In the Company of Giants’. What’s it like to face a hungry polar bear and its cubs as they emerge from their den? And how does it feel to be stalked by killer whales in the straits of Gibraltar? Join Doug for an unforgettable evening of extraordinary animal adventures and unique wildlife film footage. Ask him questions about his encounters and travels and discover what it’s like to be up close and personal with nature’s biggest creatures. 01935 422884 3rd May: Meet and Greet Day with Mike the Knight. West Somerset Railway, Bishops Lydeard.

See p.11 for further details.

3rd May: Kingsbury Episcopi May Festival. 5pm Fancy Dress Pram Race. 7-11pm Music in the marquee, hog roast and bar.

Tickets £5.50 (£2.50 kids) from The Community Shop 3rd May: Country Homes & Antiques Show, Kingston St Mary Village Hall. 10am – 4pm.

A showcase of local Somerset artisans. Enjoy a FREE day out and see stunning furniture, upholstery & fabrics, wooden flooring specialists, garden designers, plants, willow sculpture, vintage gifts and candles, a blacksmith, heritage builders, delicious food, a lovely garden for the kids to run around and much more. Free entry and refreshments.

5th May: Kingsbury Episcopi May Festival. 11am – 5pm. Fun for all the family includes: Morris Dancing, Hula Hooping, Face painting, food and craft stalls, live bands and MORE!!

Spring on the Farm Magdalen is opening its doors on Sunday 27th April from 12pm to 4pm for an exciting afternoon down on the farm.

Come and visit our new born lambs, calves and piglets.

Feed the chickens and meet “Jenny” – our horse – and “Monty” the friendly Barn Owl. Take a walk around the farm and visit our organic kitchen garden or join our guided nature tours to see the new “Bee Life Centre” and investigate wildlife, flora and fauna that live on the land.

There are many fun and creative activities for children – enter the animal mask competition, make hot chocolate and toast marshmallows on the open fire and join in the sing-a-long sessions.

Last winter, with the aid of funding, we worked hard to upgrade the centre to provide access to all. We installed a number of easy access paths around the farm to allow wheelchairs and pushchairs to explore as many areas and see as many animals as possible.

New all terrain wheelchairs are available for those who

Rebecca King feeding orphaned lamb at Magdalen

an

are less mobile and Jenny, the horse, has been fitted out with a special wheelchair friendly trailer.

The centre will be open for hot rolls, homemade teas and drinks with cake and goodies.

Alternatively make your own pizza using our Cob Oven.

Magdalen is an environmental education centre based on a 132 acre organic farm located on the Dorset/Somerset border between the towns of Chard and Crewkerne.

For further information please visit our website www. themagdalenproject.org.uk.

Spring into your garden!

Now is the time to Spring into your garden! At Willowbrook Nursery and Garden Centre we have lots of fresh plants waiting to get into your garden.

We have a choice of vegetable plants from lettuce, peas and carrots through to tomatoes and cucumbers. These are very easy to grow and with the help of the right ‘gro-bags’ and plant food it is something that all the family can join in with.

If you are feeling more adventurous we have a large range of seeds so that you can start from scratch. We also have a range of children’s tools and welly boots to get you ready for the garden. If you fancy having a bit more colour then we will be having a wide range of Summer plants that can produce a riot of colour for the whole of the Summer!

The Café & Tea-room are open all day for a full ‘Meaty’ breakfast, healthy salad or a tempting piece of cake and a

cup of tea. We have cream teas available throughout the Spring and Summer with our popular home-made scones so why not treat yourself. We also have a Pet-shop, Richards Aquatic Centre, Winesolution wine shop and H2O Canine Hydrotherapy. Why not come and pay us a visit; our friendly and helpful staff look forward to seeing you!

We are situated on the main A38 between Taunton and Wellington in Somerset, not far from Junction 26 of the M5.

Competition winners Snail World

Ruth Newport, Winscombe T Griffin, Burnham on Sea Rachel Sorrentino, Marston Magna Mrs Krystyna Lovatt, Glastonbury Sophie Buckle, Manchester Lynsey Ward, Exmouth Great Gizmos

Julia Darvill, Yeovil Kim Stone, Torrington Kristy Brown, Blandford Forum Sue Harrison, Great Yarmouth Heather Simpson, Fife Sarah Bond, Eastbourne Amanda Pickering, Birkenhead Annette Stephens, Hereford Ms Sherri Fordham, Mildenhall Solange Thomas, Hammersmith

OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT

Parent Talk April 2014 7

Paignton Zoo goes crazy for creepy-crawlies!

Children who love creepycrawlies will want to see Paignton Zoo’s new exhibit – although their parents may not be so keen!

Fantastic Fish at Living Coasts Fantastic Fish is a year -long event promoting sustainable fishing and a greater awareness of just how wonderful fish are. There will be fish trails, fish talks and fish arts and crafts. There will

be displays of fish artwork by local illustrator Marc Dando showing British shark species and fish to eat.

At the fish pledge wall, visitors will be able to write their own pledges on card fish scales. They will be able to share their thoughts on why fish are fantastic and promise to support Marine Conservation Zones, to buy responsibly-sourced fish for their tanks at home.

There will be a variety of

events taking place throughout 2014 including a Fantastic Fish Festival from Monday 28th July to Friday 1st August which will be sponsored by Kingfisher Brixham. For more details and to stay up to date visit www.livingcoasts.org.uk

Gibbon Club, the Paignton Zoo children’s club for 8 to 12 year olds.

Other invert events during the year will include the introduction of large exotic butterflies into Crocodile Swamp during the Easter holidays; an insect festival during May half term, the Amazing Ant Trail, bees and crayfish.

Investigate is due to open to visitors in the Spring.

Paignton Zoo Environmental Park is a registered charity.

For more information go to www.paigntonzoo.org.uk or ring 0844 474 2222.

‘other things you might like’ or on social networking sites you get ‘friends you may know’.

Meanwhile, an iPhone app will help people learn about invertebrates both in the exhibit and away from the Zoo. It has been developed

by Robin Bailey, a university computer studies student and former member of

PAIGNTON ZOO & LIVING COASTS TWO ZOOS ONE PRICE ET online Buy your ZOOPER TICK

paigntonzoo.org.uk

* SAVE 20%

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This year Living Coasts is celebrating fish in all their forms. Some fish species are part of the collection at Torquay’s coastal zoo and aquarium – others are food! Fish are amazing, vital, beautiful and useful.

Join in our Fantastic Fish Festival from Monday 28th July to Friday 1st August 2014

Investigate is an unusual new attraction devoted to invertebrates - animals with no backbone. Butterflies, beetles, woodlice, worms, clams, crabs, octopus, snails and starfish are all invertebrates, for example. In fact, most animals are - only about 3% of species have a backbone.

In this suitably futuristic room you’ll find ants, spiders, beetles, scorpions and stick insects representing different principles and discoveries for which we have invertebrates to thank. The mix of science and live species is designed to engage with audiences of all ages. The leaf-cutter ant exhibit is particularly unusual – it’s based on a giant sugar molecule, one of the building blocks of life. There is even a working robotics display using technology developed from invertebrate studies.

The behaviour of ants has inspired algorithms used by social networking sites – these mathematical formulas work out a predicted response from a variety of inputs. So it’s thanks to ants that, when you shop on the internet, you get offered

ased tickets * From separately purch follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT

8 Parent Talk April 2014

Charlie and Millfield Holiday Eggciting Easter Adventure Days Courses Lola’s Best Bestest Play 8th – 17th April 2014 at Hestercombe Gardens, Taunton.

Muddy good fun, whatever the weather!

New Courses for 2014!

Here’s a wonderful chance to take little ones to a theatre show designed especially for them - everyone’s favourite brother and sister, Charlie and Lola, in their extremely ever so wonderful stage show, are returning to Exeter Northcott Theatre in April!

Charlie is 7 and Lola is 4.

She adores her older brother and has an imaginary friend, Soren Lorenson.

Find out if Lola will ever tidy her room or if Charlie will get Lola to sleep, even though she is not sleepy and will not go to bed.

The Tigers want their bedtime milk, the Dancing Dogs have borrowed Lola’s pyjamas – not to mention the Ogre in the wardrobe! Who’d have known there were so many problems to overcome!

‘Charlie and Lola’s Best Bestest Play’ is presented by four puppeteers, with specially made puppets and the voices from the TV series. Charlie and Lola appear as cut-out cartoon characters in the same magical world they inhabit in the books and TV series.

From music to magic tricks, from pink milk to party rings, everything you expect is there!

‘Charlie and Lola’s Best Bestest Play’ lasts 1 hour and 10 minutes and is ideal for ages 3+.

Tickets cost £12 –14 and Family Tickets are available.* Book via the Exeter Northcott Theatre Box Office on 01392 493 493 or online at www. exeternorthcott.co.uk . * A £2 booking fee applies to all card and cheque payments over £10.

Watershed Productions present the BBC Worldwide and Polka Theatre production of

Based on the characters created

by Lauren Child Adapted by Jonathan Lloyd

EXETER NORTHCOTT THEATRE

Sat 12 April - 1.30pm & 4pm Sun 13 April - 11am & 1.30pm Box Office: 01392 493 493 www.exeternorthcott.co.uk Booking fees apply

The Millfield Holiday Courses welcome children to come together for an exciting mix of fun, laughter and new experiences. There are a variety of courses on offer at Millfield this Easter and summer which are available for children aged 2 - 16 years.

We offer a number of sports courses from Football to Badminton, Cricket to Tennis and the Millfield Rugby Course, run by former England International, John Mallet, who is experienced in teaching in the school environment as a rugby coach at Millfield School.

New for 2014, we are offering Athletics, Netball and Hockey courses, with the Hockey also available on a residential basis for older children.

The Multi-Activity course is an excellent choice for children who want an all round experience of the activities Millfield has to offer, with use of the superb facilities, activities range from a variety of sporting and non-sporting

activities which include arts and crafts, swimming, trampolining, t-shirt painting and many more.

Mini-Multis is a course for children aged 2 - 4 years, promoting fun and enjoyment in a safe environment. The course is led by staff with experience specific to this age group and includes: Messy play; Musical activities; Forest School fun; Small world play; Painting; Dance; Songs; Stories, and more.

Easter courses:

Multi-Activity (5-14) Football (5-14) Netball (7-14)

Summer courses:

Mini-Multis (2-4) Multi-Activity (5-14) Athletics (8-16) Badminton (8-16) Cricket (7-14) Football (5-14) Netball (7-14) Hockey (7-14) Tennis (8-14) Rugby (8-14)

01458 444 320 info@millfieldenterprises.com www.millfieldenterprises.com

Summer Kids Camps 2014 Monday 14th July – Friday 22nd August. Run by the Princess Royal Sports Complex at Wellington School for all children aged 8-14.

Days will include: indoor

paintball, archery, wall climbing, Woolacombe beach trip, capture the flag, fun swims, adventure camp, sport coaching, Quaywest Waterpark trips, laser clay shooting, fre making, shelter building, rifle shooting,football, badminton, hockey and much more...

We are offering 10% discount for all children who signed up for our Easter camps. We also have offers on block booking our Adventure days and our Multi-activity days.

Children can be dropped off from 8.30am; normal collection is between 4.00 – 4.30pm. Our Late Club goes

MAKING HOLIDAYS FUN!

EASTER HOLIDAY COURSES:

Multi-Activity 5-14 yrs Football 5-14 yrs Netball 7-14 yrs

SUMMER HOLIDAY COURSES:

Mini-Multis 2-4 yrs Multi-Activity 5-14 yrs Football 5-14 yrs Cricket 7-14 yrs Hockey 7-14 yrs Netball 7-14 yrs Tennis 8-14 yrs Rugby 8-14 yrs Athletics 8-16 yrs Badminton 8-16 yrs

01458 444 320 www.millfieldenterprises.com

Tues 8th and Thurs 17th April – Ambush Paintball

An exhilarating day of frenetic paintball for both boys and girls aged 10 – 14. A full day of game scenarios including capture the flag, last person standing, and protect the bomb disposal expert. All the latest gear provided plus 300 paintballs.

Thurs 10th April – Woodland Adventure Day

Great outdoor challenges every child ought to do from making a mud slide, climbing

a tree, swinging on a rope swing. This will be a messy one and is not to be missed!

Fri 11th April – Commando Challenge Day

Are you brave enough to take part.? Learn all about camouflage and concealment and put your skills to the test during the spine tingling sniper challenge. Set up a bivouac, take part in a recce control plus so much more…..

Tues 15th April – Hot Shot Shooting Day

Are you a hot shot? If so then this is definite must. Have a go at shooting all manner of things from paintball guns to catapults. Bows and arrows to boomerangs. A great way to spend a day in the woods with your friends.

Book now to avoid disappointment and let your children get outdoor and active this Easter holiday.

For bookings please call Andrew Burns on 01823 410126 or email aburns@1610.org.uk. www.1610.org.uk

Hands-on fun for kids at Devon County Show Get up close to cows, sheep and ponies, tuck into scrumptious food and there are lots of things for little hands to make and do at this year’s Devon County Show – May 22-24 at Westpoint, Exeter.

on until 5.30pm.

We are also playing host to The Andrew Flintoff Cricket Academy the week commencing Monday 4th August for all children aspiring to be the best.

For full details go to www. andrewflintoffcricketacademy. co.uk/venues/wellingtonschool

For full details on our camps – please visit

www.wellington-sport.org.uk/kids-camps

MILLFIELD HOLIDAY COURSES

Spending time outdoors brings huge benefits to young people’s heath, mind and body.

So don’t let the kids sit around during the holidays get them to Hestercombe!

1610’s Easter Adventure Days are full of fun and laughter and offers young people aged 7 – 14 years the chance to try a range of exciting and challenging outdoor based activities.

There is something for everyone, take a look at our jam packed Easter programme.

The Princess Royal Sports Complex

Summer KIDS CAMPS 2014 14th July – 22nd August

01823 668718

www.wellington-sport.org.uk

Here are a few of the highlights for youngsters: The Kangaroo Kids are taking their quad bikes into the air for a daring display jumping over vehicles Savage Skills mountain bike stunt team are putting on a thrilling show and will offer tips and tricks to budding cyclists Look around Devon’s largest temporary cattle shed housing up to 600 beef and dairy cattle There are more than 1,400 sheep, over 1,000 horses and hundreds of goats, guinea pigs and hens and ducks.

Don’t miss the dog show where pedigree pooches will parade in the show rings Join Devon beekeepers in their large marquee and see bees flying in and out of their hive, make a candle with beeswax and have a taste of delicious honey It’s all-action in the sheep shearing theatre where competitors will find out how

fast they can shear a sheep and others how quickly they can wrap up the fleece.

The action comes fast, furious and hot in the metalwork and shoeing feature where forges are

fired up in readiness for competitions Join students from Bicton College on a guided nature trail around Bluebell Wood – there are sure to be lots of surprises!

Music and entertainment takes place all over the showground and includes groups on the BBC performance stage, a band stand and marching bands And there’s transport from times gone by – take a look at steam engines and vintage cars, all in full working Don’t forget, on Saturday an adult can bring up to three children to the Show free! www.devoncountyshow.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT

Eggcellent Easter at Hestercombe!

Run in the gardens, paddle in streams and spot the signs of spring with the fun family trails in the gardens.

There’s loads for everyone to enjoy over the Easter holidays, from nature spotting, colouring and craft activities to growing your own plant! The café is open 10am – 5pm too, so plenty of time to catch your breath and relax over a cuppa.

From Saturday 5th to Monday 21st April take part in the Easter trail, help the Easter bunny find the eggs he’s dropped at Hestercombe and answer the clues to win your own chocolatey surprise.

Plus each trail will be entered into a competition to win a year’s family membership!

Between Monday 7th and Sunday 13th April children can plant their own sunflower with help from staff in the plant centre. Sign up on the day for 11am or 2pm. Take your sunflower away to see how big it grows then send in your pictures to share with other visitors and members.

With over 40 acres of woodland, lakes and gardens to explore there’s plenty of space to use up that extra energy. The gardens are stunning in spring with swathes of golden daffodils

over every bank, blossom floating in trees and a

kaleidoscope of colour on the Victorian Terrace.

A friendly welcome and a great day out awaits all the family – for more information visit www.hestercombe.com or call 01823 413923.

Parent Talk April 2014 9

Fun-fuelled action at Haynes Motor Museum Haynes International Motor Museum will unveil the final phase of its extensive £5 million redevelopment this month.

The redevelopment, which includes new display halls, café, shop and state of the art conferencing and banqueting suites, will provide a completely new façade to the museum, and will be fully completed ready for Easter.

Prior to the opening of the new exhibition halls, Haynes revealed a £250,000 new family entertainment zone in the museum’s grounds called Haynes Motorland, featuring a 1,500 square metre adventure playground with a myriad of motoring themed interactive games and miniature vehicles for children to enjoy. There are also two classic buses – one featuring a cinema and the other a soft play area - and a new go-kart circuit known as ‘Haynes Hatch’ with battery operated vehicles.

The new family zone is just one of the new developments that will see the museum expand beyond the restraints of the internal exhibition halls.

Managing Director Marc Haynes explains: “The outdoor family zone is part of a new pedestrian area at the rear of the museum that, thanks to the help of our wonderful volunteers, allow us to link the

exhibits in the display halls with outdoor activities. We are looking to create a visitor experience that appeals to all the senses, which includes bringing some vehicles outdoors so we can fire up the engines allowing visitors to hear and smell the motoring heritage as well as admiring the 400 vehicles on display.”

As visitors are welcomed into the museum to see phase one, work will continue behind the scenes on completing

Lots to do come rain or shine!

phase two which includes the remodelling of the other display halls to ensure a more logical and easy to navigate layout and more room for the exhibits to be displayed.

There’s a world of fun-fuelled action and excitement just waiting to be discovered at Haynes International Motor Museum.

+$<1(6 , 1 7 ( 5 1 $ 7 , 2 1 $ /

02725 086(80

Great fun for all this Easter

Haynes Motorland

American Collection

Motorcycle Mezzanine

Sparkford, Yeovil, Somerset, BA22 7LH 01963 440804 www.haynesmotormuseum.co.uk Educational Charitable Trust, No: 292048

follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT

10 Parent Talk April 2014

Museum of East Asian Art The Museum of East Asian Art offers a range of fun and award-winning educational programmes for all ages. The activities, organised every season and during school holidays, are around different themes of East Asian cultural traditions and crafts.

April – May children’s workshop and events ● Horse Trail around Bath Bath World Heritage Day 13th April - February 2015

According to the Chinese zodiac, from the 31st January 2014 to 18th February 2015 is the Year of the Horse. With this trail, visitors can find horses in art at six different collections around Bath, including Roman Baths, Victoria Art Gallery, Holburne, BRLSI, the American Museum and the Museum of East Asian Art. This trail will be launched on 13th April, Bath World Heritage Day.

Learning through discovery

● Easter Origami Saturday 19 April, 14:00-15:30

Admission: £3 (Including admission for one adult) Make your own eggs, bunnies, baskets and more using traditional Japanese paperfolding technique! ● Spring Festivals 27 and 28 May, 14:00-15:30

Admission: £3 (Including admission for one adult) Celebrate the Cherry Blossom Festival (Japan) and the Dragon Boat Festival (China) by making beautiful origami cherry blossoms and trees as well as dragon boats. ● Make Your Own Coat of Arms!

29 May 14:00-15:30

Admission: £3 (Including admission for one adult) The Museum has a group of porcelain decorated with armorials that were made in China for English families. Learn more about these symbols and design your own plate.

Please check our website for details of adult activities: www.meaa.org.uk. Follow us on twitter @MEAAEducation, and our resourceful education blog: http://educationmeaa.wordpress.com

Explore arts and culture from East Asia Museum of East Asian Art / 12 Bennett Street Bath BA 2QJ

adventure Dunster Castle and Gardens

© National Trust Images. Registered Charity Number 205846.

01643 823041 nationaltrust.org.uk/dunster-castle

Devon’s tree top adventure no age restrictions at Finlake Also

indoor climbing outdoor rock climbing abseiling caving ziplines

from £12 per hour or £20 for 3 hours!

Z perfect for a birthdy treat

www.rockcentre.co.uk 01626 852 717 / 07974 852392

There’s Treetop fun for everyone on the picturesque 132 acre site at Finlake Leisure Park, Chudleigh TQ13 0EJ. Zipslides, jungle bridges, aerial balance beam, cargo net and more!

Challenges for all ages.

Enjoy breathtaking bird’s eye views in complete safety, a unique and thrilling way to see this stunning corner of Devon.

At the Rock Centre, we offer a spectacular and fun adventure experience accessible to all. A great birthday treat, stag/hen party, corporate event, school outing or just an enjoyable time out to get some fresh air and exercise!! No previous experience required, no age limits, no height or weight restrictions and a fantastic activity for families! Our trained guides will make sure that you are equipped with a full set of safety kit and carefully supervise your ground level training before taking you on your memorable adventure.

Evening Tree Top Treks are available too! Adults do not need to accompany under 18 year olds.

Try our other experiences:

Indoor rock climbing Outdoor rock climbing/ abseiling Caving Sea traversing

For a whole day of things to see and do visit Dunster Castle and Gardens

www.meaa.org.uk / 01225 464640

Discover 1000 years of history. Explore subtropical gardens, go wild in the natural play area or seek out spectacular views.

Treetop fun

Step inside the Crypt and experience our fascinating interactive exhibition. Learn all about our rare resident bats and spy on them via the bat cam in the bat room.

Find out about the Castle’s previously hidden history with our ‘Life through a lens’, or be spooked by stories of ghostly goings on in the Castle.

Why not get active on our log play area complete with outdoor giant xylophone.

Take our new ‘Chapters’ tour and discover the tales of Castle life across the ages.

Visit the Dunster watermill which is now included as part of our Castle and garden admission for 2014. The watermill is fully operational and you often see original milling here.

We’ve got lots of exciting events with our Cadbury’s sponsored Easter Eggsplorer trail on 19th and 20th April, Have-a-go archery and pistol shooting – running throughout the season, our Civil War weekend on the 3rd, 4th May with Taunton Garrison, including rolling skirmishes, musket displays and cannon

fire, Edwardian Falconry with period hawk and dog displays and Meet the House Keeper and Edwardian Manners learn how to be a Edwardian Gentleman or Lady on 31st May 1st June.

Free* guided tours of the Victorian kitchen also take place daily throughout the season or just play our lawn games on the Green Court.

The Castle and Gardens are open daily between 8th March – 2nd November, 11am – 5pm. *Normal admission applies (National Trust members free)

Call for more information: 01643 821314.

Animals, adventures and GREAT play!

If it’s animals you want we’ve got loads - from Shires and Shetlands to lambs and piglets. In fact, we have got a farmyard full of the critters.

Don’t forget we are still a real working farm so we have lots of animals in the fields as well - see if you can spot

Wolvershill Road, Banwell, Weston-super-Mare

them on your tractor ride. If it’s play you prefer, we’ve got castles and forts, trampolines and skyways, sandpits and tractors, jeeps and play boats, indoor and outdoor, mazes and rides.

Give the kids a treat - have a fun day on the farm. Baby animals born almost daily!

Lambing started just a few weeks ago with a set of Texel quads - now on show in the saloon barn, the first of about 150 lambs due to be born at Court Farm. We have a posh flock of pedigree Texel sheep (some of them are daughters of the most expensive sheep in the world - sold for £128,100). We also have a flock of crossbred ewes on the farm that produce their lambs in late March and early April. If you visit us now you will see some of the lambs which are born each year and you may even be lucky enough to see some born. All summer long you can bottle-feed lambs at 12 and 3 o`clock each day and learn some amazing woolly facts. In the summer

you may see Farmer Ed preparing some of the rams for shows or sales.

Rosie the pig has been producing a dozen little piglets at a time since she found her home at Court Farm in 2009.

She is an excellent mum and will be gearing up for some more babies this year. Our pedigree Devon cows have already started calving. Our cows and calves are still inside

the barns, so if you head down soon for a visit you will see them as soon as they are born. And don’t forget you can do carp fishing and camp at Court Farm too – or hire a luxurious tipi, fully equipped with carpets, rugs, sofa beds, roll mats, cutlery, barbeque area, and furniture.

For further details call 01934 822383 or visit www. courtfarmcountrypark.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT

Parent Talk April 2014 11

Join The Roman Baths Meet and Greet days at Online Treasure Hunt West Somerset Railway this Easter station or Dunster village. And of course Minehead station is just across the road from the beach. Why not try our

YOU COULD WIN AN IPAD MINI

Have fun with the children this Easter - join our online treasure hunt! Each week we’ll be hiding a piece of Roman treasure on our website www.romanbaths. co.uk along with a secret code.

All you need to do is find the treasure and the code and enter it on our treasure hunt website http://treasure. romanbaths.co.uk along with some details for a chance to win.

The first hunt starts on the 26th March and runs weekly until 22 April.

For each piece of treasure we hide there will be a chance to win a children’s goody bag worth £50. Plus, when the hunt is over we will also pick an overall winner from all entrants throughout the competition who will win an iPad Mini. JOIN THE HUNT at www. romanbaths.co.uk Visit the Roman Baths this Easter, and join in with our special family event, Curious Coins, on Monday 14 April, 10am-1pm and 2-4pm. Investigate Roman coins and create a coin to take home.

No booking is required. All children need to be accompanied by an adult. Normal admission charges apply, but event is free once on site.

Glastonbury medieval fayre

My Noble Lords and Ladies, we once again shall celebrate our Easter Festivities with feats of skill courage and bravery.

We bring to you the finest knights from across the Land to dazzle you with their prowess and transport back to the age of Chivalry.

We are delighted to announce that for our fourth annual outing, The Glastonbury Abbey has kindly invited us back to their prestigious venue! In order to showcase Medieval Life this year we have lots of new treats for our staunch supporters, who braved arctic temperatures last year, to support not only our charity of help for heroes but The Abbey Rescue Fund as well.

This year has shown that relationship with our hosts has developed into a complete union with one entrance one site one price! With such a fundamental change we have lots more for the audience to participate with and some new displays not to mention our heroes of yore! The Knights of the Damned whose superb horsemanship will be tested once again to the fullest as they compete with lance and sword to be proclaimed Tournament Champion! To further immerse yourself in daily life, why not expand your experience and take in the medieval cookery class. Or even try your hand at some

willow making.

Kids kingdom has also had a visit from the master of coin with a craft tent, ferret racing,

The West Somerset Railway will be offering some great days out for families in April.

Its trains are running every day from April 5th to the end of the month, except the 25th and 28th. On every Saturday and Wednesday the “Dunster Castle Express” offers the opportunity to travel by steam train from Bishops Lydeard station (the southern end of the line, 4 miles from Taunton) to Dunster for a road coach link to and from the 1000 year old castle.

On April 12th there is a Meet and Greet day with Wallace and Gromit whilst looking a bit further ahead there is another M&G day on May 3rd with Mike the Knight. The Railway is already booking seats for its ‘Days Out With Thomas’ weekends in July. Other places to visit while enjoying the steam train journey back in time can be the historic harbour town of Watchet, Cleeve Abbey near Washford

“Heritage Hunter App”? For more information call 01643 704996 or see www.westsomerset-railway.co.uk

West Somerset Railway Saturday 12th April 2014 © Aardman Animations Ltd 2014.

Wallace & Gromit will be making personal appearances at intervals between 10am and 4pm at Minehead Station of the West Somerset Railway.

Under 5’s Free

Book train tickets online at www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk or call 01643 704996

face painting along with the old favourites like have a go Archery and our bouncy castle.

Discover the world of the Romans

visit www.romanbaths.co.uk

follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk 6429 Roman Bath Campaign 2014 85wx133h Ad AW.indd 1

24/02/2014 15:49

welcome to your n o i t c e s S W E N

Book Bag NEWS

bringing you world events, job tasters, boredom busters, interesting facts and everything topical...

parenttalksw

We hope that our ‘101 crafty ideas for Mother’s Day’ Pinterest board inspired you to create some wonderful gifts.

Why not visit our Pinterest page - parenttalksw to see the ‘Easter Crafts for Kids’ board with some great ideas to keep the kids busy over the holidays?

Easter Crafts for Kids

Easter Eggs - Paint beautiful eggs to decorate the house this Easter or hang them in the garden for a traditional Easter egg hunt.

Springtime Flowers create flower templates with a cake case for the centre which can be filled with sweets - an ideal little gift.

Easter Bonnet - either using coloured card or a coloured plate & bowl to create an easter bonnet to be proud of! Decorate using anything you want!

Following

Easter Bunny - a nice easy one for pre-schoolers.

A simple cup, pipe cleaners, coloured card & eyes required to make this fun character.

Easter Bunting - a great

use of colour charts to make easter bunting to brighten any room!

Easter Biscuits - Bake some tasty biscuits and decorate with brightly coloured icing – perfect for Easter!

Easter Masks - Draw or paint eyes, a nose and some whiskers onto a paper plate, then thread some elastic through a hole either side to make an Easter mask

Easter characters -

Create fun characters out of paper flower pots or cardboard tubes as a little gift for someone special.

Simple Sewing - Felt is great for cutting out simple easter egg shapes and then decorating with all different kinds of things.

you’ll find these and more on our Pinterest page - parenttalksw

WIN

EASTER FUN AT LONGLEAT Win one of three famil day ticketsy

Book Bag NEWS There’s a fun-packed programme of family entertainment and events for visitors of all ages to enjoy at Longleat Safari & Adventure Park this Easter.

The Wiltshire attraction, voted Best Large Visitor Attraction at the South West Tourism Excellence Awards, has got a host of activities taking place throughout the Easter holidays.

Deadly star Steve Backshall will be presenting live Easter shows, there’s a giant themed Easter Egg Hunt for younger visitors to enjoy and the new Penguin Island and Stingray Bay to explore.

Plus take on the new BBC Deadly Adventure at Longleat, discover the wicked history in Longleat House as well as exploring the Adventure Park including the Postman Pat Village, the sea lion escorted Jungle Cruise past Gorilla Colony, Walk Through Monkey Temple and much much more!

Go wild in the UK’s No.1 Safari Park – Try giraffe feeding and the Lemur walkthrough in The African Village, check out the cheetahs, beware of the meddling monkeys in the Monkey Drive-Thru and look out for Longleat’s magnificent lions.

Open daily until 3rd November.

Please see www.longleat.co.uk for full details and prices.

Parent Talk have 3 x family day tickets to give away. (worth £108 each). A family constitutes 2 adults and 2 children and the prize can be taken up to 3rd November.

For your chance to win, answer the question below and visit our website www.parenttalk.org.uk to enter.

Closing date for entries is 23rd April 2014.

Complete the sentence below Look out for Longleat’s magnificent _ _ _ _ _

What kind of books do bunnies like?

How does a rabbit keep his fur looking good?

Ones with hoppy endings!

With hare spray!

What do you get if you cross a rabbit with a kettle?

Can you find the right path to the easter eggs ?

Visit www.parenttalk.or g.uk to see if you are right!

H A HA

A hot, cross bunny!

How does the Easter Bunny travel?

HA

Why shouldn’t you tell an Easter egg a joke?

It might crack up!

By hare plane! www.parenttalk.org.uk

14 Parent Talk April 2014

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

Sherborne Prep – Achieve your goals, so much more than with Somerset academic excellence College Whilst other prep school children may be going about their lessons on Saturday mornings, Sherborne Prep pupils rush eagerly into school in their home clothes for activities. This term’s offerings include the usual wide variety of clubs such as Electric Car Club, Riding, Dance, Swimming, Stamp Collecting, Asian Cookery, Beginners’ Italian, Young Artists, Drama, and Circus Skills, to name but a few.

Whilst the children are occupied with their exciting selection of clubs, parents set up their easels and pick up their charcoals and paints, as our wonderful art teacher and renowned artist, Fernando Velazquez, opens the art room to parents. There is plenty of laughter and chat in the relaxed and encouraging atmosphere that has become the hallmark of Fernando’s lessons. If art is not their thing then parents can try their hand at Greek, or attend the Saturday lecture, which covers an eclectic range of topics from human rights to the physics of windsurfing!

Why not come and experience

Are you seeking a change in career? Would you like to progress in your existing profession? Do you want to develop new skills and garner extra qualifications?

our happy and enthusiastic atmosphere for yourself?

01935 810911 / registrar@ sherborneprep.org

Sherborne Prep VISITORS’ MORNING: SATURDAY 26th April - all welcome

  

If so, Somerset College is the place for you. We offer a range of courses to help you take control of your career.

These include our innovative distance-learning programmes, available in a variety of disciplines. Whether you’d like to learn about the safe handling of medicines, develop your understanding of dementia care or hone your IT skills, we have a course to suit. Even better, these programmes are completely free to anyone over the age of 19.

Our Access to Degree Courses are designed for those who would like to get into University studies, but have been away from learning for some time.

Available in areas such as Social Science and Social Work, Nursing, Teaching, and Journalism, they provide the perfect introduction to degreelevel study, giving you a firm grounding for the next stage in

your educational journey.

In addition, we are the largest provider of degrees in Somerset, offering a range of specialist fields including Art and Design, Health and Early Childhood Studies, and Computing/Computer Games Development.

Whichever way you look at it, studying at Somerset College will help you take your career to the next level. And thanks to our expertise in working with adult learners, you can be assured that we’ll provide all the support you need to realise your ambitions.

SOMERSET COLLEGE ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS

Largest provider of degrees in Somerset

FREE

Distance Learning courses

Whether you’re seeking a change of career or would like to develop new skills to enable you to progress in your existing employment, Somerset College is the ideal place to pursue your ambitions.

Our range of professional development courses provide the ideal platform to update your skills or change your career direction.

We offer degrees in: Art & Design / Engineering / Construction / Business Teaching / Sport / Health & Early Childhood Studies Computing & Computer Games Development Access courses are available to gain entry onto degrees in: Social Science & Social Work / Nursing Science Professions / Health Professions Teaching / Journalism & Humanities / Art & Design

To find out more about the opportunities we can offer your child, contact the Registrar, Aurora Mercer 01935 810911 or come to our

Visitors’ Morning: Saturday 26th April

Distance Learning courses are free to those 19 years and over IT User Skills & Business Administration / Customer Service Team Leading / Sports Coaching / Equality & Diversity Dementia Care / Working in Mental Health Safe Handing of Medicines For more information and to apply please visit www.somerset.ac.uk or call the Helpzone on 01823 366 667

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

Parent Talk April 2014 15

Queen’s College offers individual learning

AN INDIVIDUAL focus on learning is keeping Queen’s College Pre-Prep and Nursery at the top of the tree.

Small classes of between 12 and 16 children allow specialist teachers to cater for the individual needs of the pupil, as well as delivering an ‘Outstanding education.’

Rated as ‘Outstanding’ by both the ISI and OFSTED, the PrePrep prides itself on the quality of the teaching provided.

“We focus on each child as an individual and tailor-make their education for them in order that every child reaches their full potential. With the

swimming pool.” But as well as delivering high-quality teaching, the Pre-Prep also aims to give the children the confidence to achieve as they progress through the school: “We want children to be confident and happy, and we provide a warm, nurturing environment in which this takes place and where they make friends for life.”

Before and after school care is a real consideration for working parents and with timings from 8.00 am until 5.45 pm this alleviates any worries about sourcing extra child care.

The Pre-Prep (and Nursery and Junior School) is holding an Open Morning on Monday 5 May from 9.30 am – 12 noon and you would be very welcome to come and see for yourselves what Queen’s College has to offer. For further details please contact admissions@queenscollege.org.uk or by phone 01823 340830. help of the school’s enviable facilities and specialist subject teachers, children are able to engage in a broad range of lessons and activities, such as languages, music, drama and swimming and a wide variety of sports and clubs” said Mrs Jan Williams, Head of Queen’s College Pre-Prep and Nursery.

“Our Pre-Prep gives children an absolutely outstanding education, for example, our Year 2 children have had their first cello lessons just this morning, it’s a wonderful start for them. We also teach our children to swim from age four and five in our own school

competition

WIN

Win a Junior Folding Trampoline from Galt Toys Designed with fun and safety in mind, Galt Toys’ range of high quality outdoor toys are built to last, and are the perfect choice for active toddlers and young children.

The easy to use Folding Trampoline is a fun way for kids to keep fit and active.

Suitable for children aged 3+ years, the junior trampoline will encourage children to exercise and is suitable for both indoors and outdoors, so can be used come rain or shine! The trampoline has a tough weatherproof mat, as well as a padded cover around the mat to cushion the frame for extra safety and prevent children from stepping through the bungee cord.

Which school treats every child as an individual?

a.

Queen’s College is ranked as ‘outstanding’ for pastoral care. But what makes Queen’s really special is the friendly, relaxed atmosphere where every child receives tremendous support and is encouraged to see themselves as individuals.

Open Morning For pupils aged 3 - 18 Monday 5 May 9.30am to 12 noon

Parent Talk have one Junior trampoline to give away. For your chance to win, answer the question below and visit our website www.parenttalk.org.uk to enter. Closing date for entries is 23rd April 2014.

What age is the junior trampoline suitable for?

Age a)3+ b) 83+ c) age 13+

We’re the answer

Find out more:

01823 340830 admissions@queenscollege.org.uk www.queenscollege.org.uk

All products in Galt Toys’ Active Play range are available from www.galttoys.com

follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

nursery DIRECTORY 16 Parent Talk April 2014

ALBY’S CHILDCARE,

Albermarle Centre, Albermarle Road, Taunton. Providing safe, high quality care and learning opportunities for children aged 2-4 years. Open 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday.

T: 01823 448926 E: albys@albermarle-centre.co.uk BRIDGWATER COLLEGE CHILDCARE CENTRE was

rated Outstanding by Ofsted in 2012, in all areas! The Centre is open to the general public and children of students, for children from four months to five years. There is also a Holiday Play Scheme for children up to eight years old.

T: 01278 441270 or E: childcare@bridgwater.ac.uk. www.bridgwater.ac.uk BRIGHT STARS CHILDCARE LTD, Green Lane, Frome

BA11 4JW. New setting, caring for children from 3 mnths to 5 yrs. Lots of new and exciting activities and learning opportunities for all.

T: 01373 451619 or E: childcare@brightstars.org.uk www.brightstars.org.uk HAZLEGROVE NURSERY AND PRE-PREP, SPARKFORD Hazlegrove’s

innovative Pre-Prep curriculum is outstandingly successful, evident in the increased confidence and ability levels as children move up to the Prep School. The children benefit from experienced staff, specialist teaching and outstanding facilities including an indoor swimming pool and woods for Forest School. “Hazlegrove children are happy children” says Headmaster Richard Fenwick, “we simply want to provide the very best education we can for the pupils in our care”.

For more information, contact Fiona O’Neill on 01963 442606 JABBERWOCKY CHILDCARE CENTRE,

where children “make excellent progress… in a calm & vibrant environment”, Ofsted 2012. We are a unique and fun, purpose built nursery in Street. We offer childcare from three months to school age, from 7.30am to 6pm, 5 days a week. Children can also take part in weekly yoga and football sessions and Forest School at the local arboretum and in our outdoor classroom.

We also have a before and after school club, a holiday club for 5 – 11 year olds, and offer a walking bus to local schools.

T: 01458 446999 E: alison@jabberwockynursery. com www.jabberwockynursery.com KING’S HALL NURSERY.

King’s Hall is a wonderfully traditional yet progressive school set in the rolling Somerset countryside just

NURSERY DIRECTORY NURSERY

outside Taunton. Although the Nursery shares the Preparatory school’s superb facilities, it is self contained and operates in a secure and peaceful environment. Log cabin classrooms, vast on-site Forest School and highly experienced, dedicated staff make King’s Hall Nursery the natural choice for children 3 to 5 years. And from January 2014 King’s Hall are offering places for 2 year olds.

T: 01823 285921 www.kingshalltaunton.co.uk LADYBIRDS PRE-SCHOOL,

Lydeard St Lawrence. We are a small, friendly, rural pre-school overlooking the Quantock hills. We welcome children aged 2½ onwards.

Open term time only: Mon-Thurs 8.45am-2.45pm.

Toddler group Fri 9.30-11.30am.

T: Ali on 01984 667342 LEWESTON NURSERY AND PRE-PREP, Sherborne.

Excellent facilities and extensive grounds with space for adventure, discovery and freedom. On Thursday mornings Parent and Toddler Group. Excellent Ofsted Report. To find out more about our friendly atmosphere

T: 01963 211010 www.leweston.co.uk LITTLE BOOTS DAY NURSERY. (Ages 2-5,

8am-6pm) Come and visit us on Pottery Farm! Our idyllic setting offers fantastic opportunities for enhanced outdoor learning; we work with a maximum of 16 children a day ensuring each child gets the individual attention they need. Contact Cleo Wilson for more information.

T 07936 555 676 littlebootsdaynursery.co.uk Insert Miniatures MILLFIELD PRE-PREP SCHOOL (Ages 2 - 7),

situated in the beautiful Prep campus in Glastonbury.

Our aim is to encourage a love of learning through a combination of classroom and outdoor activities, using a wide range of exciting and stimulating teaching methods. Small class sizes and excellent facilities, like our on–site Forest School and indoor swimming pool, support this. Over 20 free after school activities as well as an Early Birds and Late Club. To arrange a visit or a taster session please contact:

Hannah Cox in Admissions on 01458 837524 MINIATURES DAY NURSERY. Open 50 weeks

per year, we provide a safe, secure and stimulating environment for children aged 0-5 years. Open 8am - 6pm,

we provide home cooked food.

Education grants accepted for 3 & 4 yr olds. Two minutes from A358. Church Rd, Ilton, Ilminster.

T. Marion on 01460 554488 www.miniaturesdaynursery.co.uk PERROTT HILL MONTESSORI NURSERY AND PRE-PREP. Given

‘outstanding’ by Ofsted, the Montessori Nursery is situated in the attractive, safe courtyard of the manor house. The Nursery children, aged 3-4 years, have the use of the extensive grounds and facilities of the school as well as having their own outdoor adventure play area.

The staff are warm and friendly. Free after school care is available.

T: 01460 72051 www.perrotthill.com PILTON PRESCHOOL

We believe that each and every child is unique, special and full of potential.

Therefore we strive to inspire in all a sense of: confidence, creativity, critical thinking, compassion, character and community. Open Mon-Fri 9.00am - 3.30pm term time, various sessions available.

Breakfast club & after school club soon to be offered.

Please contact us for further information or to arrange a visit.

T: 01749 899147 www.piltonpreschool.org info@piltonpreschool.org QUEEN’S COLLEGE NURSERY 3-4 yrs. Our

friendly nursery provides outstanding care and education with excellent facilities for all our young children. Staff are all highly qualified, experienced and caring. The Nursery is situated within our Pre-Prep dept and has its own safe, secure, child centred garden and all weather covered area.

Outdoor play and learning is a key element of our education at Queen’s and children enjoy weekly Forest school sessions both in our school grounds and in local woods.

Achieving ‘Outstanding’ in all areas by OFSTED we offer the very best start in early years education, encouraging all our children to happily grow and develop in independence and confidence.

T: 01823 340830 TAUNTON NURSERY SCHOOL, for children from

0 years. Flexible Nursery Education, 8am - 5.45pm Highly qualified teachers.

Spectacular grounds and facilities used by all. Children can attend a combination of morning, afternoon and late club sessions.

T: 01823 703303 www.tauntonschool.co.uk

To book our Nursery Directory, please call

THE SECRET GARDEN PRESCHOOL AND NURSERY

for children from 5 months – 5 years, 51 weeks, 8am-6pm.

Creative and outside play, in a nurturing, fun environment.

Forest school. You are welcome to visit us any time.

Early years funding and 2 year old funding available. Find us at: The Barns, Brinsea Road, Congresbury, BS49 5JL T: Stefanie or Emma on 01934 853350 www.secretgardennursery.co.uk WELLINGTON JUNIOR SCHOOL NURSERY.

Attractive, purpose built building. Talented teachers.

Cheerful children. Proud parents. All this can be yours at Wellington Junior School Nursery and Pre-Nursery.

EYFS can be used against our reasonable fees.

Please enjoy our website www.wellington-school.org.uk

or call Alison Jones to arrange a visit.

T: 01823 668710 - LITTLE WELLIES Term

Time Toddler group. Open to all pre-school children every Thursday morning 9.15-11.15 am, Wellington Junior School Hall. £3 per child and £1 per additional child weekly charge.

Contact Maria Kerr for more details – 01823 668700

office@wellington-junior.somerset. sch.uk WOODLANDS PRE-SCHOOL, RUISHTON,

Taunton. At Woodlands we

offer a wide range of indoor & outdoor activities including a Forest School Curriculum.

We accept children from 2 years old. Our purpose built setting enables and nurtures children, encouraging them to grow and experience life with confidence.

For more information T: 01823 444302

Quality Babysitting Service Quantock Babysitting has been supplying quality childcare for families across the Quantock area and beyond since 2010.

The agency founder, Sue Bill Grace passionately believes that having access to professional childcare for unsociable hours is essential in today’s modern families.

“Having affordable access to childcare professionals as and when you need is a great help to many local families, explains Sue. “Although we follow many of Ofsted guidelines we are not required to be Ofsted Registered, therefore you can access babysitters without the need of contracts offering a huge degree of flexibility. We have sitters available evenings, weekends and school holidays, local families can now register with the Agency for just £5 per year”.

All of the babysitters

01458 241318

have professional childcare experience and many have childcare qualifications, all have a CRB/DBS and all babysitters are reference checked.

“I interview all babysitters face to face” says Sue, “to ensure that they meet the agency’s high standards, I can categorically say that I would be happy for any one of the babysitters to look after my own children” As well as supplying quality childcare to local families, the agency has also been supplying wedding childcare and are now recommended by many of the beautiful wedding venues in Somerset, including St Audries Park, Maunsel house and Crowcombe Court.

“Somerset is such a special place and many people travel miles to get married here.

We offer a bespoke childcare package to suit all weddings, whether you require an evening babysitter, a Nanny for the day or a fully equipped mobile crèche we can help”.

In 2013 the agency received a nomination award from Mumprenuer UK and a silver website award.

“It’s great to be recognized for all the hard work I put in but more importantly it reflects the quality of the babysitters that are currently registered with the Agency.

For further information please visit http://www. quantockbabysitting.co.uk

We are a leading educational charity which provides support to early years settings and families.

For more information contact Emma on 01278 691719 or somerset@pre-school.org.uk

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

Parent Talk April 2014 17

Brand new ‘Pelican’ Nursery School fizzing with for 2 year olds officially inspiring staff invests in opens at King’s Hall School the best King’s Hall School is delighted to announce the official opening of their fantastic new Pelican Nursery, which is purpose built for two year olds. Forest School is a strong feature of the School’s provision and children have direct access from the dedicated Nursery rooms to a wonderful woodland play area with animals, a cob oven, mud kitchen as well as the use of the School’s many other fantastic facilities.

Features incorporated in the new nursery specifically cater for two year olds with the inclusion of a sensory room, sleeping areas, cosy corners for quieter activities and large areas of floor space for building and exploring! The School’s bank of highly qualified Early Years staff ensures that all children are guaranteed the highest quality care, whilst growing up in the beautiful 50 acre surroundings that King’s Hall School has to offer to all of its children. The School’s strong emphasis on having lots of fun whilst learning makes this new opportunity for two year olds absolutely unmissable.

The new Pelican Nursery was opened by Maureen Willson, first Head of King’s Hall School (1987-1999). Mrs Willson

Every time you read about a school you get the same catchphrases, the same promises and the same clichés. Everyone surely wants their child to do well academically and everyone too wants their child to be happy at school. But with so many schools to choose from how do you know which one is best for your child?

Headmaster of King’s Hall School Mr Justin Chippendale; First Head of King’s Hall School (1987-1999) Mrs Maureen Willson and the Headmaster’s wife, Mrs Claire Chippendale with King’s Hall children from Pre-Prep

introduced both girls and a Pre-Prep department to the school, which was previously named Pyrland Hall and only accommodated the junior boys of King’s College, Taunton.

The return of Mrs Willson to welcome the school’s youngest members and the brand new facility was a wonderful reminder of the School’s progress.

Our next Whole School Open Day is Friday 2nd May. To book your place or for more information please contact Emma Guppy on 01823 285921 or visit the School’s website www.kingshalltaunton.co.uk. We look forward to meeting you.

Choosing an independent school means there are some things that are a given. You rightly expect high academic standards, superb facilities and access to a wider curriculum. But undoubtedly when you visit a school you are looking for something else too – and undeniably this will be found in the people you meet.

At Wellington school we are able to offer a fantastic education – we have the superb facilities and our results speak for themselves.

We offer everything you would expect from a great prep school. But what we also offer is a school that has not lost sight of the real meaning of each child’s education; developing enquiring minds, nurturing individual characters and building skills for life – the Wellington Way.

Matt Hoile, Reception teacher, enjoys a reading session.

We have a school fizzing with inspiring staff – teachers who put the children first and encourage them every step of the way. We also invest in the best – and right from the beginning. Our Early Years team is an example of this.

Our three year olds are taught

by Jane Hester (B Ed Hons Cantab), who brings years of

experience and knowledge to the classroom. We have Matt Hoile (BA Hons, first class) teaching in Reception alongside Nickie Reed (BN PGCE) our Head of Early Years and Infants.

Wellington is growing and pupils come from far and wide.

It’s a special place – why don’t you come and see for yourself?

follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

18 Parent Talk April 2014

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

Success at Chard School With its impressive Inspection Report from the Independent Schools Inspectorate and the second highest SATs results in Somerset last summer, Chard

School continues to celebrate with three pupils awarded places at Colyton Grammar School, one pupil awarded a full scholarship for Wells

Cathedral School, and a host of sporting successes including the football team participating in the Independent Schools Association National Football Final in Leicestershire.

This independent school for 2-11 year olds is located in historic period buildings in Chard, South Somerset.

Specialist subject teachers provide the highest standard of teaching in English, Maths, Science, French, PE, Art & Humanities. The school has excellent facilities to match, including a science lab, Astroturf, ICT suite, gym, art studio, library and a self-

contained Nursery for 2-4 year olds.

Pupils at Chard School are also able to participate in many artistic endeavours. Music and drama play an important role with children performing on a regular basis to friends, family and the public. The talented music teachers give pupils the opportunity to learn a musical instrument from the extensive list on offer.

Curiosity and creativity are actively encouraged to develop a passion for learning and to enable each child to become a lifelong learner and achiever

– confident, motivated, independent with high expectations of themselves – and all this at an affordable price.

Come and see what we have to offer at our Open Day on Friday 2nd May from 10.00am

Email: office@chardschool.co.uk Tel: 01460 63234 www.chardschool.co.uk

The same road by different steps Shapwick is a pioneering co-educational day and boarding school that occupies two separate sites situated on the delightful Somerset levels.

As a CReSTed category ‘SP’ School, Shapwick specialises in the education of young people aged 8 – 18 years with dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia and associated speech and language needs.

Shapwick’s motto ‘The same road by different steps’ rings true in everything throughout the school. Shapwick provides specialist teachers to small classes, we employ a team

of speech and language and occupational therapists who work in conjunction with the teachers to help to achieve an ethos where the emphasis is based on making maximum demands on the strengths of our students, whilst providing specialist support across their whole curriculum through a holistic, multisensory approach.

Shapwick does not believe in specialist dyslexic units situated within a mainstream school. If you have a poor working memory and weak phonological processing then you have those weaknesses

in every lesson, activity and break, not just in a daily literacy lesson. Pupils therefore no longer feel different, and as a result their self-esteem and confidence grows. They feel happy, fulfilled, confident and most importantly of all they are given the same opportunities as children who do not have dyslexia.

Shapwick teachers understand the things that make a difference and their experience, results and feedback from parents, pupils and teachers demonstrates that Shapwick’s unique formula works.

For 2-11 year olds

HIDDEN GEM IN SOUTH SOMERSET

OPEN DAY Friday 2nd May from 10am

www.chardschool.co.uk

01460 63234 office@chardschool.co.uk

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

Parent Talk April 2014 19

Bosses Reluctant To Offer Flexible Working Bosses are failing to get the most talented people for the job because they don’t seriously considering flexible working hours, says a leading recruitment firm.

Benchmark says too many employers are stuck in the mind-set that a good day’s work has to be 9am-5.30pm – meaning people with family commitments often struggle.

A survey by the Sheffield recruitment company reveals a staggering 92 per cent of people say finding a job with flexible hours to suit childcare is one of their biggest career concerns. People looking after elderly or sick relatives also struggle.

Louisa Harrison-Walker, director of Benchmark and a mother-of-two, said: “I am staggered by the number of women I speak to that are having to take jobs way below their capabilities because they are the only ones they can get to fit around childcare.

“In this day and age of remote technology surely we could start to be more accommodating? I am certain that employers are missing out on highly credible employees because they are not open to part time, slightly reduced hours or job shares.

“We know that parents face a very real struggle when getting back into work after having children. With four working mums and a dad in our

own office, we had a rough idea of what to expect, but we know that other employers are not as forgiving when it comes to being a working parent.”

The Benchmark survey asked hundreds of people to rank their concerns regarding their return back to work and to highlight one thing that their employers could do to make it easier to be a parent and have a career at the same time.

The highest ranking concern was flexible hours to suit childcare not being available – 38 per cent of people ranking it their number one concern and an overwhelming 92 per cent of people put it in their top three concerns.

A quarter of people surveyed are worried they would not be offered part time hours, left with the choice of either not going back at all or having to go back full time.

The cost of childcare is also a serious concern for working parents with 19 per cent stating it was their main worry. Not a single person said that their main concern was not having the confidence to go back into their role.

Louisa added: “We believe that there is a serious lack of senior, challenging, part-time roles in the job market at the moment, and that some employers are simply brushing great employees under the carpet once they have had children.

“Results from our survey suggest that many parents are not offered the flexible working hours they need to accommodate the daily dropoffs and pick-ups. Many also feel like their late starts and early finishes are frowned upon by colleagues and management, even though they feel they are highly focused at work and often pick up tasks in the evenings after the kids have gone to bed.

“Other results suggest that many parents feel like they are treated differently when they reduce their hours to part-time, and that they don’t feel as valued as full time employees.

Benchmark’s survey comes as the TUC’s annual women’s conference warned that most of the best-paid occupations in Britain are ‘no-go’ areas for part-time workers.

Benchmark asked people for their top concern:

Flexible hours to suit childcare – 38 per cent Part time hours not available – 26 per cent The cost of childcare – 19 per cent Trying to be the best mum and employee at the same time – 11 per cent Unsupportive management/ colleagues – 3 per cent Unsupportive family/friends – 3 per cent Having the confidence to go back into the role – 0 per cent

What could an Access Diploma do for you?

“Once my children started school, it inspired me to consider a complete career change and to take up teaching. Going back into education as a more mature person means that I am more motivated, hardworking and determined to do well.

The Access Diploma has greatly improved my time management and essay writing skills, which will be crucial at university”.

Michelle Pullen, a full-time mum of children aged three and six, has completed the

Access Diploma and is now studying Primary Education at the University of the West of England.

“I left school with few qualifications and tried various jobs, but found I really enjoyed working as a Care Assistant.

I wanted to become fully qualified, and therefore enrolled onto the Access Diploma. It was fantastic to win the Rod Coleman Memorial Bursary

for overcoming challenges; not only does it represent recognition for my efforts, but it will also really help with my university studies”.

Martin Coombe has just received a bursary from the University of the West of England, where he is now studying for a Mental Health Nursing Degree. He hopes to become a Registered Mental Health Nurse.

To find out more call us on 01278 441234 or visit www.bridgwater.ac.uk

www.bridgwater.ac.uk

The access diploma opening doors to a bright new future.

if you’re over 19 and want to return to education but lack confidence or the appropriate entry criteria, then this very popular course is designed to help you gain new skills and qualifications, which you can then use to gain a university place or boost your career prospects. as well as studying core components - such as study skills, information Technology, english and maths - you will choose from a variety of diplomas including: • • • •

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follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

20 Parent Talk April 2014

Hestercombe Centre for Young Musicians

A Division of The Guildhall School of Music and Drama

Would your child like to study music in the magnificent surroundings of Hestercombe House and Gardens near Taunton?

In a ground breaking initiative launched this academic year, the Guildhall School has forged a relationship with the Sound Foundation Somerset Music Education HUB and the Hestercombe Trust offering progression routes in instrumental study and in singing.

The Hestercombe Centre for Young Musicians (HCYM), which opened on 1st March 2014, now

Which school combines a relaxed atmosphere with outstanding exam results?

a.

welcomes applications from committed young musicians aged 6-18 to attend on Saturdays between 9.30am and 2.00pm in a sustained programme of weekly training comprising instrumental lessons, ensemble work, singing, performance skills and musicianship classes. A high quality team of teachers has been appointed to deliver the curriculum in most orchestral instruments, singing, piano and guitar. Visiting artists will also enrich the provision in a series of workshops.

Fees of £270 per term should not put anyone off

making an application. The Sound Foundation Music HUB has generously ensured that no child should be denied access to the Centre on financial grounds. Bursaries will be available for families who satisfy strict criteria.

The CYM in London www.cym. org.uk was founded in 1970 and is thriving. We now wish to offer children in Somerset the same opportunities we provide in London.

Please contact Tom Yardley (Head of Centre) for an application form and further details if required via email: tomas.yardley@cym.org.uk

Preparing students beyond school

Queen’s College combines a friendly, relaxed atmosphere with a real sense of purpose and a passion for learning. Pupils have access to a broad and interesting curriculum, taught by an outstandingly committed staff.

Open Morning For pupils aged 3 - 18 Monday 5 May 9.30am to 12 noon

We’re the answer

Find out more:

01823 340830 admissions@queenscollege.org.uk www.queenscollege.org.uk

By Chris Alcock, Headmaster, Queen’s College Taunton

Having A*s at A level does not guarantee a place at Russell Group universities or help gain elusive graduate trainee schemes or job offers in today’s marketplace.

Although achieving top grades will certainly open up choices, it is often developing life skills in communication, leadership and project management which make the difference in later life.

Here at Queen’s College, performing arts students

develop self confidence, creative presentation and communication skills. Our Sixth Formers work towards a Recognition of Achievement Award for spiritual, cultural, physical and academic development and those taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh scheme learn vital skills in project management, community service and leadership.

Boarders learn independence, how to make lasting relationships and negotiate and sportsmen and women are disciplined,

team players who learn not only how to win gracefully, but also how to cope with the disappointment of losing.

We teach our pupils to be responsible, well mannered and hard working as well as developing skills in research, analysis and evaluation. It is this holistic approach to learning and the supportive environment that we provide here at Queen’s that I believe enables our pupils to be prepared mentally and physically for the increasingly competitive marketplace after school.

HCYM

HESTERCOMBE CENTRE FOR YOUNG MUSICIANS

a division of the Guildhall School

The HCYM is a new Saturday Music Centre which opened on March 1st 2014, and is based at Hestercombe House. The centre aims to provide a complete musical experience for young musicians in Somerset between the ages of 6 and 18.

Weekly tutorials will be given by professional musicians allowing students to develop their musicianship and singing skills and their understanding of harmony, theory, aural perception, composition and history.

The Hestercombe Centre for Young Musicians is for the committed and enthusiastic music maker. It will provide young people with a comprehensive and high quality musical pathway from beginner to grade 8 level under one roof with the support and backing of the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the Sound Foundation Somerset Music HUB. We will be in session every Saturday for five weeks from April 26th to May 24th, and for five weeks from June 7th to July 5th this academic year. Our doors are still open to new students so don’t hesitate to apply!

For more information or an application form please contact Tomas Yardley, Head of Centre via email: tomas.yardley@cym.org.uk

Find us on Facebook: HCYM Follow us on Twitter: @Hestercombe_CYM

Sound Foundation Somerset hear it ✸ sing it ✸ play it

Make Music! Make a Difference to Your Life!

BOOKS BOOKS BOOKS

22 Parent Talk April 2014

Seaton Tramway Editor’s choice – Open For Business Brave

Against all the odds Seaton Tramway has overcome huge physical hurdles to repair its track in record time after the devastating storm on Valentine’s night which washed away half a mile of track and flooded the company’s Riverside Depot.

With only hours to go until the attraction was due to open for February halfterm, staff were horrified to discover the devastation that had been caused by a combination of high winds, tides and abnormal river levels. Not only did they have to suspend the service to visitors but had the added problem of having to work from flooded offices.

Managing Director, Jenny Nunn, said at the time that “unlike the poor people on the Somerset Levels, at least we had warm, dry houses to go home to!”

A concerted effort has been made by staff at the Tramway and contractors, Axminster Excavators, to get the track fully open again in time for

By Wendy Constance Published by Chicken House Set 13,000 years ago in a prehistoric time of huntergatherers and mega mammals, ‘Brave’ is an exhilarating, epic adventure perfect for children aged 9-12. With shades of Michelle Paver’s bestselling ‘Wolf Brother’, it’s a timeless story about true courage, friendship, care and survival.

Princess Disgrace

By Lou Kuenzler Published by Scholastic Meet Princess Grace – the princess who is anything but graceful. In fact, she’s downright clumsy! Thankfully, Grace is about to start at Princess Academy, where she can learn to be a proper princess at last! Despite snobby Princess Precious making fun of her, Grace starts to make true friends, have adventures and learn to train her unicorn. daily service which started on 29th March. Much like the line at Dawlish, parts of the damaged rail and track were salvaged and removed for diggers and rollers to access and level the site. In total over 600 tonnes of fill and ballast were brought in by road and then transported along the line to the site of the damage, compacted and then the track relayed and packed on top.

Jenny went on to say that “it seems difficult to

comprehend that, what the storm took away in a matter of hours, has taken six weeks to put back and even now work will continue after reopening to ensure the track can withstand any future incidents like this. Now we’re looking forward to getting back to the real job which is running a tramway and welcoming visitors from far and wide to take this unique trip along this much-loved route by the River Axe.”

competition

Star Horse

By Jane Smiley Published by Faber and Faber Gee Whiz was a star racer but now needs a life beyond the track. Abby knows just how he feels – she thinks she’s outgrowing her family’s ranch. When Abby’s other beloved horses True Blue and Jack are offered opportunities elsewhere, she wonders, should she follow?

WIN

Guinea Pigs online: Bunny Trouble

By Jennifer Gray and Amanda Swift Published by Quercus Fuzzy and Coco’s owners are organising an Easter Fair at the Rescue Centre. They bring home a naughty little bunny called Binny in the hope that she will learn to behave. Then she can find a new owner at the fair. But Binny is determined to cause havoc in Middleton Crescent. Her antics lead to Eduardo’s capture by the humans – and then he’s taken to be adopted at the fair! Can Fuzzy and Coco rescue Eduardo and find a new home for Binny?

Win a 2 night family stay at the beautiful Sands Resort Voted one of the “Top 25 Family Hotels in the UK” in 2014 Sands Resort has everything you need for a great family holiday in Cornwall.

The hotel is only a short walk from the beach and has amazing child friendly facilities such as large family rooms, a soft play area, four Ofsted approved kids’ clubs, two pools and a spa as well as lots of complimentary activities like Tennis, Golf and Basketball.

To help you travel a little lighter Sands Resort also offers free hire of prams, kiddie carriers, bottle warmers and sterilisers as well as beach toys, windbreaks, body boards and wetsuits.

The family friendly restaurant offers various dining options. Choose between Family Dining or an early Children’s Tea and the later ‘Couples Only’ dinner whilst taking advantage of

Racing Driver

the evening Kids’ Club or the free baby listening service.

After dinner enjoy a nice glass of wine from the wellstocked bar and watch the sun set over the Atlantic Ocean.

Bliss!

The prize is a 2 night stay for

a family of 4 in a family suite including breakfast. Children must be 14 or under.

Excludes Easter, Whitsun and Summer Holidays.

Prize must be redeemed by 2nd November 2014.

Participants must be 18 or over. Subject to availability.

No prize or part of a prize is exchangeable for cash or any services other than accommodation at Sands Resort Hotel.

For your chance to win, rearrange the words below and visit www.parenttalk.org.uk to enter.

Closing date for entries is 23rd April 2014.

DSNAS ROTESR For further details about the hotel, visit www.sandsresort.co.uk

By Giles Chapman Published by Thames & Hudson ‘Racing Driver’ is a thrill-a-minute training course that shows children how the world’s fastest racing cars are driven.

The book is divided into three types of spread that encourage the child to imagine speeding around the track and becoming a racing champion.

‘Driving school’ looks at the engineering and science of driving. ‘On the track’ puts the child behind the wheel in a variety of high-speed cars, including stock cars, Formula 1 cars and sports racers. The final ‘ID section’ pages explain how to identify different kinds of racing cars, including historical models.

Macavity

By T.S. Eliot, illustrated by Arthur Robbins Published by Faber and Faber ‘Macavity’ celebrates the 75th anniversary of ‘Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats’. The original trickster cat is being brought to meet a whole new generation of poetry fans, with a hilarious rumpus and a baffled police dog.

CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS

Bringing up a teen A study of 1,500 parents who have, or recently had, teenagers has illustrated the hard times other mums and dads are set to go through when their children enter the teenage years.

During a time when emotions run high, teenagers can experience bouts of sulking and are likely to spend hours in the bathroom. They are also likely to empty the fridge of all its contents once or twice a week and arrive home late fortnightly.

As the study commissioned by bonjela Junior shows, more than half of parents found the teenage years the hardest of all when bringing up their child.

However, by understanding the underlying causes of this ‘typical’ teen behaviour, parents can equip themselves to provide their children with the support they need to help them through this tricky time.

Life Coach for Children, Naomi Richards explains: “Between the ages of 13 and 18 young adults are going through enormous changes both physically and emotionally.

“As a consequence, parents need to be aware that their child is striving for independence, and is wanting to stand on their own two feet.

“With this growth and progression can come a tide of emotions, as teenagers try to express themselves, deal with growing pains and worry especially how others perceive them.

“It’s important to remember that your teen is trying to figure out who they are. In their search for identity, they will compare themselves to friends, family, peers, figures in the media etc in terms of their body and that will have a strong bearing on their selfesteem.”

As well as the emotional challenges of being a teenager, the physical is a common source of anxiety. The study found over half of teenagers turn into younger versions of themselves when suffering from physical pain.

Almost 33 per cent of teenagers surveyed suffer from period pain, followed by 30 per cent who suffer from ‘growing pains’, 22 per cent from mouth ulcers and 20 per cent from problems with braces. Parents have an important role to play here too.

A spokeswoman for bonjela Junior said: “These findings highlight the different emotional and physical pains many teenagers are faced with today.

“Whilst your teenager’s emotional turmoil can be challenging to address, you can help with the physical growing pains they may experience.

As the results show, some of the most common complaints include mouth ulcers and problems with braces.

The findings also reveal the way they look is also of major concern for teenagers – the survey results indicate they spend a lot of time taking ‘selfies’ to post on social networking sites, and a fair

amount of time is spent in front of the mirror worrying about their appearance.

A quarter of young adults worry constantly about spots, while one in 10 hate having to wear braces or glasses.

Despite being hard to communicate with sometimes, six in 10 teenagers still tend to confide in mum and dad when something is really troubling them.

Nearly a third of teenagers will talk to their parents about changes in their bodies while 28 per cent will talk about how they look or feel about their image.

And while 37 per cent of students are concerned about doing well in their subjects, one in six fret about fitting in with the cool kids at school.

Other worries include noone fancying them, looking the part for parties and nights out, and a fifth of teenagers “just want to be normal”.

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Finding it difficult to lose stubborn weight gained after the birth of your children?

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CATHERINE’S MAGIC ENTERTAINMENT For tailor-made Magic Shows, Mini Discos, Games and Balloon Twisting Family Fun For Everyone!!

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●

Shout at you 59 times Sulk 71 times Say they hate you 27 times Empty the fridge 84 times Refuses to talk to you 51 times Takes selfies 67 times Threatens to leave home 21 times Answers back 95 times Asks for money 70 times Slams doors 51 times Arrives home late 38 times Worries about looks 74 times Locks themselves in the bathroom 66 times Falls out with friends 36 times Sleeps in 81 times

✸

Sam’s Funky Fun, Mistletoe Farm Bed & Breakfast, Chard

●

TIMES PER YEAR

Family Fun

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TOP 20 TRAITS THAT CAN BE TYPICAL OF A TEENAGER:

Sulking Texting all the time ● Surfing the internet ● Using the floor as a wardrobe ● Shouting at you or about something ● Playing their music loudly ● Arguing with you ● Answering back ● Spending hours on social network websites ● Asking for a lift ● Lots of time spent sleeping ● Grumbling about nothing in particular ● Eating all of the food in the fridge ● Telling you how unfair it all is ● Slamming doors ● Obsessing about what they look like ● Singing loudly ● Asking for money all the time ● Spending hours in the bathroom ● ‘Tutting’

Parent Talk April 2014 23

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Morning – noon – and night As used in many schools (CRB checked) We are available 7 days a week. For all your party needs. Games and Sweets are all included in the price! Give Andy a call Bridgwater 01278 450266

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Family happiness is challenging mums at mealtimes The results of a new survey by Wholegrain Goodness shows keeping everyone happy is the most challenging aspect for mums when planning family meals. For the majority of mums, finding something everyone will eat that is within budget are the top priorities but they will do whatever they can to ensure their family enjoy a healthy diet.

The Wholegrain Goodness survey of 1,000 mums reveals how hard they work to ensure their children eat healthily. They use many different ploys to increase the nutritional content of their children’s meals – with hiding fruit and vegetables in familiar dishes being the favourite. The top five tactics mums use to serve nutritious meals are: 1. Hiding vegetables and /or fruit in dishes 2. Changing from white to wholegrain bread in packed lunches 3. Introducing healthier snacks

like oatcakes or popcorn 4. Making the food look fun or interesting 5. Adding fruit or vegetables when baking – e.g. in muffins/ cupcakes.

But mums’ efforts to help their family eat well, don’t stop there, with the results showing that the majority are doing a lot more to improve the whole family’s diet.

Ways they have done this over the past three years include: 1. Using more fresh ingredients 2. Cooking more meals from scratch 3. Buying low fat options 4. Searching for new recipes or meal inspiration 5. Reducing portion sizes 6. Checking nutritional info on foods 7. Spending more time on meal planning 8. Making changes to recipes they cook regularly 9. Reading articles and books on what foods they should be eating 10. Consulting a doctor,

dietitian or health professional.

Nearly three quarters of mums said they plan meals before going shopping, whilst 17% plan when in store.

Unsurprisingly the results show that mums find time and money a big challenge when it comes to meal planning.

Overall the survey showed that mums’ top five challenges are: 1. Finding something that everyone will eat 2. Budgeting 3. Finding something that’s easy 4. Finding something that’s quick 5. Choosing healthy options.

Other meal-time challenges mums cited in the survey included: finding time to sit down together, getting portion sizes right, and not repeating the same meals all the time.

Commenting on the findings, psychologist Dr Linda Papadopoulos said: “Juggling time and money, alongside serving healthy food the whole

family can enjoy is no mean feat, so I’m not surprised parents find it challenging!

I think the results show the importance mums place on ensuring their families eat healthily and how hard they work to do just that”. The survey also offers insights into mums’ shopping habits. The top ten factors that impact on what food mums choose to buy were revealed as: 1. Cost 2. Family likes and dislikes 3. Healthiness of product 4. Special offers 5. Ingredients 6. Convenience 7. Portion size 8. Habit 9. Brand 10. Naturalness of product.

Looking at other factors mums said impact food choice, surprisingly only 3% said recommendations from media, chefs or celebrities affected their decisions when food shopping.

follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

‘ B A C K TO O U R RO OTS ’ Brand new site at Chepstow, with breathtaking views across the Severn bridges

29 th MAY - 1 st JUNE 2 0 1 4 Half term heaven at Sunrise The first and Best loved festival of the summer

T h r e e Ar e n a s w i t h C h a i W a l l a h s M a i n s t a g e Introducing the new EDEN Village incl. hands-on workshops, talks, kids area, music and dance.

"S u n r i s e i s al l a b o u t t h e k i d s, t h e re w a s lo ad s fo r t h e m to d o t h r o u g h o u t t h e f e s t i val, not j u s t i n t h e k i d s are a . T h e w h o le fam i ly lo v e d i t ! ”

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