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January 2017 Volume 24 Issue 1

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Whole School Open Day – Thursday 9 February (10-4pm) Scholarships for Year 7 entry – Thursday 26 January The Park School , Yeovil, Somerset, BA20 1DH Call us for full details: 01935 423514 Email us admissions@parkschool.com Visit us at www.parkschool.com @theparkschoolyeovil

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Trust, Respect & Friendship . . .

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Family pages Education, Information Events Book Bag Book Review Classified

p2-4 p5, 7, 11-13 p6 p8-10 p 14 p15

competition Shaun the Sheep DVD

Parent Talk

Newtons, Churchstanton, Taunton TA3 7QF T: 01823 601086 E: 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.

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Dear Readers...

Welcome back! I hope you all had a really wonderful Christmas and that 2017 has started on a good note. I’m loving the relative peace that has descended on our household after hosting various extended family gatherings. It’s so good to get everyone together but it’s also quite a relief to have some time to yourself. My latest treat is to take myself off quietly with a cup of tea and a piece of Christmas cake – no guilt, no thoughts of diets, just pure indulgence! Later this month, I’m looking forward to conducting the Big Garden Birdwatch and seeing if we can attract any more birds to our table. Schools can get involved in the Big Schools’ Birdwatch, see p8 for details on signing up for a registration pack. Finally, good luck with the competition this month, Shaun the Sheep - one of my favourites! Best wishes Tamsin

Advertising Sales Executive PART-TIME vacancy Parent Talk are looking for an enthusiastic and proactive advertising sales executive to join the team. Very flexible hours, working from home. If you enjoy the buzz closing a sale can bring and would like a fresh challenge, then this role could be for you. Your primary task would be to generate sales

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COMPETITION WINNERS Brownie Bites Alison Henly, Martock Claire Tucker, Cheddar The Very Merry Christmas Game Steven Scrase, Misterton Alex Sheen, Taunton

Hot Wheels Ellen Stafford, Midsomer Norton Ruth Newport, Winscombe Anne-Marie Large, Cheddar Fay Smith, Frome Bath on Ice Mark Matthews, Bristol

Difficult month for parents January is traditionally the time when most divorce petitions are sent into the courts. Divorce lawyers refer to the first few days in January after the Christmas break as 'D' day because it is when the most new enquiries are received and divorce proceedings are commenced. Perhaps it is the additional pressures of spending time together over Christmas, or New Year resolutions for an unhappy couple that are at the final straw in a difficult relationship. As we approach what for many will be a difficult time, as a lawyer specialising in this area, I'd like to offer a few points of advice; ■ Please try not to argue in front of your children. It sounds like a simple point but unfortunately it is one ignored by many. There is nothing to be gained by using your children as 'weapons' against your spouse - only additional upset. ■ Try to keep communicating with each other. Hard as it may be, in the longer term you are

Zoe Porter, a Partner in Ashfords LLP's Family Team far more likely to be able to agree over the various issues of your case if you can at least have a civil conversation with one another. ■ Do seek the advice of a good divorce lawyer. There are a variety of different ways to try to resolve your issues and advice early on will help you stay on the right path. If you would like to discuss this further, contact Zoe Porter, Partner at Ashfords LLP on z.porter@ashfords.co.uk or 01392 333686.

Divorce is complex We help our clients find their way through a difficult time. If you would like an initial discussion on your options, get in touch. +44 (0)1392 3333800 ashfords.co.uk/expertise/family

Parent Talk January 2017 3

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Youngsters encouraged to take The School Run Work Out leading physiotherapist has top tips up gardening in the New Year SOMERSET youngsters are being encouraged by a garden centre in the county to get outside and into the garden in the New Year. Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre says you’re never too young to take up gardening and is offering free advice to children about growing their own and gardening at home. Andrew Pitman, Store Manager at the award-winning, family run garden centre at Monkton Heathfield near Taunton, said: “Children are the future generation of gardening and we believe it’s extremely important to get them out into the fresh air and learning all about horticulture as soon as possible. “A study by the Royal Horticultural Society found that gardening increases children’s alertness and concentration levels. “The New Year is the perfect time for youngsters to plant mustard and cress seeds as these are super easy and quick to grow and a great way to introduce them to growing their own. They can help with the chitting of early potatoes too by popping them in egg boxes

on how to survive the daily commute

and storing them in a cool, dry place, allowing them to produce shoots. “They can also help with jobs around the garden such as the pruning of plants and assist with looking after garden birds by helping provide food, water and shelter. “We’re more than happy to help any youngsters that come into the garden centre with any

gardening related questions. Our expert staff are always on hand to give advice, assist with any equipment that might be needed and are happy to offer free demos. “We also stock a range of children’s gardening tools, wheelbarrows, gloves, wellington boots, books and a range of seeds for young gardeners.”

For more information, please visit the garden centre, which is located just off the A38 at Monkton Heathfield between Bridgwater and Taunton, call 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.

The daily school run and ferrying children to and from extra-curricular activities after school and at weekends can mean hours spent in the car. Not only can it play havoc on your back, neck and overall health it can also be extremely stressful and impact your emotional as well as physical well being. It is not uncommon to experience a range of musculoskeletal problems from spending too much time in the drivers' seat, that over time can build up into serious health issues. Steven Berkman of Boost Physio, one of London’s leading physiotherapy practices, has some tips on how to stay pain free in the car and how to prevent little niggles escalating into bigger problems. "When we are stuck in a car for a long time, negotiating traffic, worried about getting the kids to school on time, the stress can build up and it can have a negative impact on our bodies. The back and neck pain we experience when driving is often caused because tension is making us clench muscles in our necks and jaws. Often, many of us are not sitting correctly in the car seat, putting unnecessary additional pressure on our bodies. There are lots of things we can do to relieve the physical and mental stress of the dreaded school run", says Steven. "Small, smart daily exercises can help keep you out of pain and relaxed. The school run workout is easy and will keep your stress levels down and combat the physical stress on your back and neck caused by siting too long with your muscles tensed up", he continues.

Traffic Jam Neck Roll Sitting in traffic is stressful, the clock is ticking and the atmosphere in the car can get very tense. Try these quick exercises to relieve tension, if the children are in the car, teach them how to do these exercises too and you can make a game of it. 1. Safety first: Put the handbrake on and keep an eye on the traffic ahead. 2. Shrug your shoulders up and down and roll them forward and back to relieve tension. 3. Slowly tilt towards your right ear to your right shoulder, hold 5-10 sec. Repeat to the left. 4. Place your chin towards your chest and hold 5-10 sec. 5. Look straight ahead and turn your head to the right, hold 5sec and repeat to the left. Stationary leg stretch Stuck at long traffic lights put the handbrake on, take your feet off the pedals and put your feet flat on the floor. Lift up onto your toes in a pumping up and down motion to work your calf muscles and give your circulation a boost. Upper Arms and Chest Stretch Interlock fingers and turn palms outwards, straightening your elbow and stretch up towards the ceiling of the car, hold 5-10 sec. Good driving position It's worth taking some time to make sure you are sitting properly. Our seat position and the actual seat might be wrong, putting strain on our backs and the sheer amount of time sitting is not good for us Getting your set position right is key. Small adjustments in height, distance from steering wheel, height of steering wheel and angle of the head rest can make a huge difference. A good

driving position will reduce stress and make the journey more comfortable. ■ Knees - both knees should be slightly bent and the left knee should still be bent when depressing the clutch ■ Back and shoulders should rest firmly against the seat. Adjust the angle of the back rest so it provides continuous support along the length of the back to shoulder height and avoid reclining the seat too far back. ■ Elbows should be bent at 30 to 40 degrees ■ Head position should be about 2.5 to 3cm away from the restraint Head restraint Make sure your head restraint is correctly positioned, it is there to protect you in case of an accident but positioned incorrectly it can increase the damage caused by a whiplash. If you do suffer from a whiplash, see a physiotherapist as soon as possible as this is an injury that can get worse if not treated. Take a break between trips If you can, don't just drop the kids off and dash off, leave home five to ten minutes earlier. Park a little bit away from the school and walk the rest of the way and once the children are safely deposited at school go for a 20-minute walk before you get back in the car and get on with your day. Of course, this is not always possible, but ideally, if you can find some time before you get back on the road and back into the school run traffic it can make a difference to your mental and physical health. If you haven't got time for a walk get out of the car anyway and do some stretches and if you can't leave the car turn off the engine and do the in-car exercises.

Michael Eavis to open RUH charity marathon walk Legendary Glastonbury festival founder Michael Eavis CBE will officially open The Forever Friends Appeal’s annual fundraising event, the “Walk of Life” on Saturday 13th May 2017, after receiving “excellent” care from clinicians at Bath’s Royal United Hospital. The Forever Friends Appeal are the primary charity for Bath’s Royal United Hospital who raise vital funds for all wards and departments at the hospital, including their major RUH Cancer Care Campaign, raising a minimum of £8.5 million towards an exceptional new Cancer Centre at the RUH. As Ambassador for the 2017 Walk of Life, Michael will 4 Parent Talk January 2017

attend the start of the event’s new route in Bishops Cannings to meet and greet walkers, before joining them as they begin their walk along the Kennet and Avon canal. The event’s new 26.2 mile route will this year start at The Crown Inn Pub, situated within the picturesque village of Bishops Cannings, just outside of Devizes. Walkers will start from The Crown Inn at 8am to travel along the canal, via Bradford on Avon to end at the iconic Holburne Museum in Bath. For those who don’t fancy a

full marathon, walkers can also opt to walk a shorter 10 mile route in the afternoon – from Bradford on Avon to Bath. Walkers can choose to dedicate their fundraising to the RUH Cancer Care Campaign, or an RUH ward or department of their choice. Earlybird online entries to the event are now open, at a discounted price of £15 per person. General entry places will be £20 per person thereafter. All entries included a free t-shirt, medal and goody bag.

To find out more, please visit www.foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk or call the events team on 01225 821535.

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

A new adventure begins at King's Hall School Starting school is perhaps one of the most emotional journeys you and your child will go through during their formative years. You will all be likely to be very excited about this next step in your child’s learning journey, yet also anxious. There will be endless questions... will they cope? Will they make friends? At King’s Hall Pre-Prep (for children aged 2-7) we understand this combination of excitement and anxiety. We draw on our vast experience to make the transition from home to nursery or school as smooth as possible. Ultimately, we want the very first day to be the start of a new adventure; each child has a blank map ready to start filling in as they begin their voyage. Unique and successful journeys are achieved through forming close partnerships between staff and parents who can work together to help

Why King’s Hall School is

guide and steer children’s paths, if needs be. This relationship begins the minute you register with us so that by the time the big day comes, we have a

shared understanding of what is best for your child. We would be delighted to meet you and your child to show you all that we can offer.

THE PRIMARY CHOICE

Our next Open Day is on Friday 28 April or you can arrange to visit any time by calling Emma Guppy on 01823 285921 or visiting www.kingshalltaunton.co.uk for more information.

Open Days at Perrott Hill

Located on the edge of the Dorset and Somerset border, children thrive at Perrott Hill because of the family atmosphere, excellent teaching and breadth of extracurricular activities and opportunities. Boarding is a

key part of life at Perrott Hill and our experienced boarding team support children as they become more independent and learn important skills from being organised to teamwork. Improvements to our boarding facilities include a new

Perrott Hill Time and space for a full education

Open Mornings: 20 & 21 January 2017 To find out more about our scholarship Autumn Term Open Mornings opportunities and arrange a visit, please contact

Friday 7 October & Saturday 8 October 01460 72051 or admissions@perrotthill.com To arrange awww.perrotthill.com visit call Philippa on 01460 72051 or

common room for boys and girls and reconfiguration of the boarding space as our boarding provision continues to go from strength to strength. Our Spring Term Open Mornings are taking place on Friday 20 and Saturday 21 January 2017 and are an informal way to visit the school and meet our pupils and Headmaster, Mr Butcher. We offer academic, all-rounder, art, drama and music scholarships for pupils in years 3-6 and our next Scholarship Day is taking place on Friday 3 February. Designed to blend into the landscape, a new purpose built music school to enhance our music provision and inspire generations of musicians was completed in September. It was the perfect place for our singers and string players to rehearse before their series of special concerts in Venice in October. Our sporting teams continue to have fantastic seasons from individual athletic and swimming performances to team sports including rugby, hockey, netball and cricket. We recently celebrated at the National History Museum a group of our Year 7 artists coming third in the hotly contested David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation Global Canvas Art and Poetry Competition. Our new Roundhouse in the woods has been a popular addition to our Forest School and served as a perfect base for hosting a special Forest School summer event with local primary schools. To find out more about life at Perrott Hill please email admissions@perrotthill.com or call 01460 72051.

email admissions@perrotthill.com Perrott Hill, North Perrott, Somerset follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit TA18 us at 7SL www.parenttalk.org.uk www.perrotthill.com

Small class sizes No mixed year groups Oodles of opportunities The perfect setting for a fulfilling childhood An independent school for children 2–13 telephone: O1823 285921 www.kingshalltaunton.co.uk A Woodard School

Parent Talk January 2017 5

6 Parent Talk December 2012

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. M A R K E T S . T H E AT R E S . FA I R S . F E T E S . S H O W S . E X H I B I T I O N S . 6th January: Toddler Explorers – Snow ‘n’ Ice at the Museum of Somerset, Taunton TA1 4AJ. Discover through play and active learning. 10.3011.30am and 1.30-2.30pm. Age: 1-3. £4. 01823 255088 Until 8th January: Aladdin, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. Climb aboard a magic carpet for an amazing journey. The thrilling story of a boy, a lamp and a genie, ‘Aladdin’ is one of the most popular pantomimes of all. Audiences are promised a traditional show packed with comedy, slapstick, singing, dancing, beautiful costumes and plenty of participation. 01225 448844 8th-14th January: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs presented by the Wayfarers Pantomime Society at The Brewhouse Theatre & Arts Centre, Taunton, TA1 1JL. Times vary. The laughs are led by Edna Bucket, the palace housekeeper, and Chuckles, the Queen’s new Jester, while Justice Quill tries to keep order with his not so able assistant, Scribbles. Prince Ferdinand is our hero, but will he be able to save Snow White from wicked Queen Avarice and her henchman, Slurp? Or will it be the Seven Dwarfs who come

to the rescue? You’ll just have to wait and see if good triumphs over evil, while enjoying another spectacular Wayfarers pantomime. 01823 283244 14th January: Dawn Explosion at RSPB Nature Reserve Ham Wall, Meare, Nr Glastonbury BA6 9SX. The starling murmurations at the Avalon marshes are a wonder of the natural world with over half a million birds roosting in the reed beds, but have you ever wondered what this number of birds look like when they wake up. Come along for an early morning stroll to the roost site and watch as the whole flock takes to the air. Booking essential. 01458 860494 Until 15th January: Robin Hood, the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. Action packed, fast paced and fantastically funny, the show brings to life the legend of England’s best-loved outlaw in a thrilling adventure for all times and all ages. As Robin Hood, fights for justice, outwits the evil Sheriff of Nottingham and woos Maid Marian, expect fiendish escapes and spectacular swashbuckling performed by a fabulously versatile cast of four Merry men

and a female ska band. 01225 823409 21st January: Sing-along Frozen. The Brewhouse Theatre & Arts Centre, Taunton, TA1 1JL. When their kingdom becomes trapped in perpetual winter, fearless Anna joins forces with mountaineer Kristoff and his reindeer sidekick to find Alice’s sister, Snow Queen Elsa and break her icy spell. This is a must for all fans of the Disney film. Remember to dress up as your favourite character and be a snow queen, Sven the reindeer or Olaf, the coolest snowman ever! 11am & 2pm. 24th–28th January: Alice in Wonderland, presented by Yeovil Amateur Pantomime Society, The Octagon, Yeovil, BA20 1UX. 24th-27th at 7.15pm, 28th 1.30pm and 6pm. Follow the White Rabbit into a magical wonderland full of colour, comedy, song and dance for all the family. 01935 422884 28th January: Beginners guide to Bird Watching, RSPB Nature Reserve Ham Wall, Meare, Nr Glastonbury BA6 9SX. 9.30am-12.30pm. Have you ever wondered which bird is which and want to learn more? This is the event for you.

Come along and learn how to identify some of the fantastic birds that call Ham Wall their home during the winter months. Booking essential. £6 for non members (£4 for RSPB members) £3 per child (£2 for child members). 01458 860494 28th January: Funky Photo – Family Fun. Museum of Somerset, Taunton TA1 4AJ. 11am-1pm, 2-3.30pm. Use our costumes and props to create some funky photos! Be inspired by our photography exhibition then take your own pictures – bring your phone or camera. Free drop-in. 01823 255088 2nd February: Wow! said the Owl, presented by Little Angel Theatre at Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre, Taunton TA2 8PD. 2pm and 4.30pm. Explore the wow-world of colours with this curious little owl who is determined to stay awake to see what daylight brings. From the warm pink glow of dawn through to a day filled with the bright colours of green leaves, blue sky, grey clouds and, finally, a stunning rainbow – ‘WOW!’ But despite the beauty of the daytime world, the little owl decides that the night-time stars are the most beautiful of all. 01823 414141

London Airbnb rooms are 59% Cheaper than hotel rooms Booking your holiday destinations and want to get the best deals? Forget hotels – Airbnb is the affordable way to go, says the new infographic from credit experts TotallyMoney.com. Broken down into two maps and an intuitive colour chart, it sets out the costs of an Airbnb room, a whole house, and the average hotel room cost for the area, highlighting the massive price differences across popular tourist destinations in the UK. Top savings on rooms Some of the most apparent differences are between hotel and Airbnb rooms. Here are the top five savings:

1. London, where it costs 59% less to rent an Airbnb room 2. Bath, at 52% less 3. Oxford, 52% less 4 Manchester, 51% less 5. Chester, 50% less Dive in to Airbnb value In locations such as Bath, Chester and York, it’s cheaper to rent a whole house rather than get a hotel room – and in Edinburgh and London, Airbnb houses with a pool or a hot tub cost less than the cost of a hotel room with the same amenities. The country’s highest-priced hot tubs A house with a hot tub in Stratford-upon-Avon was one of the most expensive options,

Craft Studio Holiday Clubs for 8-14’s

A fabulous craft studio, minutes from Wellington town with ample parking

Birthday Parties for any age Various Workshops throughout the year For more information and to book contact: sam@bodleycraft.co.uk or www.bodleycraft.co.uk 6 Parent Talk January 2017

at £495 – while one in London costs only around £100. Liverpool wasn’t much cheaper, just below Stratford’s pricing, at £482. The cheapest house In Fort William, Scotland, renting an Airbnb house costs 29% less than a hotel room. It’s still cheaper if you want a gym, pool, or parking – the hotel room is only less expensive if you want a hot tub. Northampton Northampton was the only place where a hotel room cost less than the Airbnb equivalent. However, accommodation with

Nativity Performances

Priddy Primary School Priddy children celebrated Christmas around the world in their school nativity last term. Despite being slightly less in numbers, they raised the roof with their acting and singing.

They had such a wonderful response from parents and the community, many saying that the theme was perfect, particularly in this time of uncertainty in our world.

St Lawrence’s The children at St Lawrence’s C of E Primary School were ‘super stars’ in their nativity

play. Every child had a part to play and there were sparkling performances all around.

Fire & Ice Walk 2017 “Brave the blaze and conquer the cold to help transform patient care at Bath’s Royal United Hospital!”

gyms in Aberdeen, Dover or Plymouth is cheaper in hotels. “When traveling in the UK, it can be hard to find the most cost effective option,” said Joe Gardiner, TotallyMoney. com’s Head of Brand & Communications, “AirBnB is a great way to save money but it’s not always the cheapest. It can be confusing deciding whether to look on AirBnB for prices or on Hotel comparison sites, so we wanted to provide a way of helping people decide on what type of accommodation is the cheapest in the most popular areas of the UK.”

Could you be getting more bang for your buck by swapping your holiday accommodation to Airbnb? Find out at www.totallymoney.com/airbnb-vs-hotels/

Sunday 5th March 2017 Bath Recreational Ground Featuring special appearances from Bath Rugby Club Registration: £30 Sponsorship pledge: £100 minimum Are you brave enough to walk over broken glass followed by the hot feeling of embers smouldering at 800 degrees under your feet? This year The Forever Friends Appeal has extended this event to include ‘glass walking’ as well as the more traditional ‘fire walking’ for that extra thrill. The event will be held at Bath Recreational Ground and will feature special appearances

by some members of the Bath Rugby Team. Do something special today and choose to support The Forever Friends Appeal’s RUH Cancer Care Campaign, raising a minimum of £8.5 million towards the build of an exceptional Cancer Centre at the RUH, or another area or department in the hospital that is close to your heart…

Visit www.foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk to sign up today.

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Take a look Inside… Taunton School Pre-School Class and Reception, Babies too.. Give your child a head start…. How much time do you spend ferrying your children around to extra curricular clubs? Cricket, tennis, swimming, music lessons, rugby, golf, judo, hockey etc. Do you know how much money you spend on sporting subscriptions, petrol, childcare, after school care, holiday provision? Taunton School is superb value, providing for all your needs on the same site. We care for babies in our nursery up to reception class. We offer flexible, fun Nursery Education and care in a warm, friendly environment, with excellent teaching/staff ratios who are all experts in Early Years. Our curriculum is exciting, diverse and rich, with the aim of fostering creativity, logic, communication and thinking skills. We are passionate about really getting to know your child. Our drama opportunities are excellent and we are proud to have been awarded a Gold Arts Mark for the quality of our art, music and theatre provision. These are some of the benefits of our provision that our current parents love about us: ■ We are open from 7.30am5.45pm providing Hobbies and Co Curricular activities after school. ■ Small bespoke Reception classes (4/5 year olds) – we

always have two small classes with a teacher and teaching assistant and each class has no more than 16 children in. ■ 32 children per year group - this is big enough for music groups and sports teams and small enough for optimum learning to take place. ■ Infant education in small classes (14-16) for 4/5 year olds, (16-18) for Years 1 & 2.

Swimming in our indoor pool. Games and PE with our very own Taunton Titan, Jon Gatford. ■ Ballet, Jazz club, Tap and Modern, and Aikido. ■ Specialist sporting facilities on a 56 acre site. ■ Specialist teachers for French, Spanish, German, Music, ICT, PE. ■ Our Literacy and Numeracy outcomes are higher than the national average and supported ■ ■

by a progressive structure e.g. synthetic and analytic phonics programmes /Abacus2 and Numicon. ■ We believe in teaching children how to read and use RWInc. ■ Talk for Writing, Babbling Babies, Baby Sensory ■ Our boys and girls use Think Write and write with fluency and control from an early age and we make it fun. ■ We believe in not over testing but we do lots of tracking. ■ Extra curricular activities including after school and homework club e.g. silk painting, dancing, jigsaw club, snag golf, country dancing, construction club, to name but a few. ■ £2,285 a term for full day care, plus the holiday option as an extra as we are open 51 weeks of the year. ■ Flexibility and peace of mind. ■ Early Learning Funding Entitlement for 2, 3 and 4 year olds. Come and spend some time with us at work and play in Reception (4/5 year olds) any day of the week or come to Forest Fridays. Please book to make an appointment.

For more information phone Kathy McLauchlan 01823 703300 or request a prospectus from Melissa Catton our Registrar 01823 703302. Forthcoming Open Days: Saturday 28th January and Monday 1st May, 9.30am-12.30pm.

Bridgwater & Taunton College Getting you where you want to be!

So another year is over, but there’s still time to keep that New Year’s resolution and enrol on a course at Bridgwater & Taunton College. Take a look at the hundreds of courses available and see how Bridgwater & Taunton College can help you get to where you want to be. Our courses may help you to train for your work, to progress your career, to gain a new qualification, or to learn new skills and hobbies. We work with many companies to ensure our provision is responsive to employer needs and requirements and our facilities are state-of-the-art to meet industry requirements also. There are over 700 courses to choose from, with durations from one day to a number of

weeks, which can be studied at College, or online through our highly popular Distance Learning programme (many of which are FREE)! There is something for everyone and you can enrol at any time, online, by phone or in person. A Government loan is available for learners who are aged 19+ and starting an eligible course at Levels 3, 4, 5 or 6. The Advanced Learner Loan is designed to support learners with their course fees in a similar way to how students studying university level courses receive a higher education loan. For more information, contact the Information and Guidance team by calling 01278 441234, emailing info@ bridgwater.ac.uk or see www. btc.ac.uk

Give your finances a New Year’s workout As a new year approaches, financial planning firm Lemonade Money is calling for parents to resolve to improve their children’s money skills and help their offspring be more financiallysavvy in the future. Managing partner, David Pugh, believes it is crucial parents encourage budgeting and saving from an early age; a view supported by the Money Advice Service who reports children’s money habits are formed by the age of seven, yet financial education is not mandatory in schools until they’re 11. His 10 tips are; 1. Play ‘shops’ at home, invest in toys such as a cash register and pretend money and stock shelves with everyday items cereal boxes, sponges, kitchen roll, biscuits etc. This develops their understanding of the value of money and that goods have to be paid for.

2. Set up a ‘restaurant’ with place settings and pretend-food/ money. 3. Ask toddlers to help cut out money-saving coupons (using safety scissors) and when at the supermarket, play ‘I spy’, encouraging them to spot the discounted products on the shelves. 4. Supermarkets are the favoured place for temper tantrums, if you can, hold firm and only buy what is on your list, rather than what your toddler wants. This while a painful process - delivers a clear message that money should be spent on ‘needs’ rather than ‘wants’ which have to be saved for. 5. Buy a piggy bank and set a savings goal; perhaps for a favourite toy or payment towards a day-out. 6. Reward good behaviour/ helping around the house etc with a small sum of money. Use stickers as ‘currency’ and a chart

to keep track of the total. 7. Older children may prefer a reward system based on digital games; doing household chores unlocks tokens which can be swapped for cash. Alternatively the ‘chores’ could buy additional ‘perks’ (unlocked in digital games as levels progress such as a treat, mobile phone top-up or meal-out voucher). 8. Get children used to taking responsibility for their own money with a pre-paid pocket money card. Go Henry is an allowance card for children aged six to 18 with parental controls. It’s an easy and fun way to pay pocket money while teaching good money habits. 9. Set up a children’s savings account. It’s a great way of showing children how regular saving can generate extra money through interest. 10. Encourage extra earnings; additional income can be sourced from paper-rounds,

car-washing, flyer and leaflet drops (from age 13). Working outside of the home for an income prompts prudent money management and addresses concerns that twothirds of 16/17 year-olds cannot read a payslip and a third have never put money into a bank account. David concludes: “With little financial education in primary schools, parents must lead by example and help their children develop good money skills. These learnt behaviours will be invaluable in helping young adults make decisions on everyday issues such as tuition fees, student loans, credit cards and phone contracts etc.” For parents who feel their money management may not set the best example, www. lemonademoney.com has a free Financial Health Report tool which outlines where finances can be improved.

ED VANC 19+ AD LOANS R E N R LEA d to n’t nee You do til you earn n u y r! repa 0 a yea £21,00

Do something inspiring today! Hundreds of courses available now including FREE Distance Learning courses*! Enrol now for January 2017. 01278 441234 | www.btc.ac.uk *conditions apply

Parent Talk January 2017 7

welcome to your NEWS n EWS sectio Nbringing you competitions, job tasters, boredom busters, interesting facts and everything topical...

Book Bag

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Why are we counting birds? To understand why we're asking you to count birds, we need to rewind the clock and start at the beginning! It's 1979 and we're looking for a simple winter activity that our junior membership can get involved in. As it's likely to be cold and the evenings dark, we think a weekend activity in the garden would be best. So, we asked our members to count the birds in their gardens, all at the same time, so we could work out what the UK's top ten most common garden birds are.

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Book Bag NEWS

WIN!

We have 5 DVDs to give away

28th January 2017 – Chinese New Year’s Day Why is a Zodiac Year an Unlucky Year? According to Chinese astrology, people in their zodiac year are believed to offend Tai Sui, the God of Age, and incur his curse. It is believed to bring nothing but bad luck. Therefore Chinese astrology followers pay special attention to their conduct every twelfth year of their lives, i.e. in their birth sign years.

Chinese New Year 2017 begins a year of the Rooster. It's considered a bad year for "Roosters": people born in a Rooster year. "Roosters" are hardworking, resourceful, courageous, and talented...

IT’S ALL HAPPENING DOWN AT MOSSY BOTTOM FARM… SHAUN THE SHEEP: PIZZA PARTY AVAILABLE ON DVD AND EST FROM 13TH FEBRUARY 2016 Shaun, Bitzer, Farmer and the rest of the gang are back for another 10 episodes and they’re joined by a multitude of visitors; lazy farmhands, rock stars, even escaped convicts as well as troublesome moles and hedgehogs in need of a good night’s sleep.We’re treated to Bitzer reconnecting with his inner-dog, the Pigs displaying their more sophisticated side and Shaun discovering the importance of a good hairstyle. Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Aardman and in advance of the newly announced and highly anticipated movie sequel, ‘Shaun the Sheep’ is a firm favourite to family audiences all over the world. Series 5 promises even more outrageous inventiveness, sheepish shenanigans and panic in the pasture. Don’t miss your appointment for more fun on the farm with the first release of Shaun the Sheep Series 5. DVD bonus content: A one-hour special documentary celebrating Aardman’s 40th anniversary A Grand Night In: The Story of Aardman Cert. U | Running Time: 70 mins approx. Parent Talk have 5 DVDS to give away. For your chance to win, answer the question below and visit www.parenttalk.org.uk to enter by the closing date of 18th January 2017.

The date is different each year on the Gregorian (internationally-used) calendar, but is always between January 21th and February 20th. 2017 Is a Rooster Year!

Zodiac year is any year of your Chinese zodiac animal sign, determined by your birth year. As there are 12 animal signs, a year of your birth sign comes once per 12-year-cycle: when you are (about) 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72, and so on.

Name the farm where it’s all happening? www.chinahighlights.com

When is your Zodiac Year/Ben Ming Nian? Your zodiac year starts from Chinese New Year and ends on the last day of the Chinese lunar year (Chinese New Year's Eve). For example, 2016 is a year of the Monkey, and Monkeys' zodiac year starts from Chinese New Year 2016 (February 8), and ends on January 27, 2017.

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Scholarships on offer Recognised and at Wellington School valued as individuals Wellington School offers Scholarships into Year 7. If you have an academic child, or one who excels in music, drama, art and design or sport, then Wellington School is the place to be. We have a single examination for all children coming into Year 7, so there is no separate scholarship examination. We run Taster Days and social activities for new pupils to meet each other and make friends before they arrive in September. If it is academic results you are concerned about for your child, Wellington School has just what you need. We had superb GCSE and A Level results across all subjects and 5 of our pupils went to Oxford or Cambridge this year with many more heading to prestigious Russell Group Universities. Pupils study the more rigorous IGCSE in Maths, Languages and Sciences as well as Latin and Greek and the emphasis is strongly academic. However, Wellington has so much more to offer than just exam results. The performing arts go from strength to strength; there are workshops, creative performances and technical opportunities and

Year 9 students on top of Snowdon with a huge range of bands, orchestras and ensembles, the whole school is taking advantage of a range of exciting opportunities. Our superb Chapel Choir performs regularly and our versatile musicians regularly sweep the board in singing competitions and exam results. We have superb sports facilities and a unique new Sport and Wellbeing department with specialist strength and conditioning

coaches who take fitness to new levels across all sporting disciplines. We also have a vibrant and active Outdoor Education programme. We nurture and teach pupils from 2 -11 in the Prep School and 11-18 in the Senior School, and we are justly proud of the rounded, all-encompassing education they receive. We call it “Learning For Life”. “Happy parents, happy pupils!” – The Good Schools Guide

Come and see what makes us so special. Contact us on 01823 668800 or admissions@wellingtonschool.org.uk to find out more about our Year 7 scholarship and entry procedures.

Children at The Park School gain self-confidence through the knowledge that they are recognised and valued as individuals. Our curriculum is broad and balanced and within it, pupils are given opportunity to flourish academically, physically, emotionally and spiritually. Children are encouraged to take part in a variety of extra-curricular activities including music

lessons, sporting clubs, art, drama and science clubs. A house system exists with pupils entering into competitions, taking assemblies and meeting other challenges to earn points for their house.

Social development is a considerable strength and owes much to the way the pupils are encouraged to be caring and responsible members of the school community.

Our next open day is on Thursday 9 February (10-4pm) – come and see what makes this school so special. Telephone 01935 423514 to book your place.

Parent Talk January 2017 11

NURSERY All Hallows Preparatory School Nursery Class Give your 3 year old the best possible start within the environs of this renowned Prep School. Fantastic facilities and activities including Forest School, LTA Tennis Academy and Swimming Pool and access to specialist teaching staff for languages, Music, Art, Dance, Drama and Sport set this facility apart from other nurseries. Visit at any time: 01749 881600 admissions@allhallowsschool.co.uk Brook Green Early Years Recently relocated to purpose built setting offering a larger learning environment and large garden, which can be accessed at all times for free flow play. Highly qualified staff. Spaces available now, 2/3/4 year old funding accepted. Please Call 01823 353072 for further information. Bridgwater College Childcare 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. It has a secure outdoor area boasting an ‘inspirational garden’, where children are encouraged to explore both indoor and outdoor learning. T: 01278 441270 or E: childcare@bridgwater.ac.uk www.bridgwaterchildcare.co.uk Cheekie Monkeys Ilminster A friendly, calm and nurturing setting offering full time day care (8am-6pm) for children aged 0-5. We have highly experienced staff and excellent facilities in our baby and pre-school rooms, plus an amazing garden. Lesley/Ali 01460 52457 Christ Church School Nursery is a purpose built, friendly nursery, with large outdoor play areas that

directory

encourages your child to discover and grow at their own pace nurtured by our team of experienced staff and Nursery Teacher. Please call 01373 463781 for more information.

each child gets the individual attention they need. Contact Cleo Wilson for more information. T 07936 555 676 littlebootsdaynursery.co.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 exceptional 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

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

King’s Hall Nursery King’s Hall is a wonderfully traditional yet progressive school set in the rolling Somerset countryside just 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 2 to 5 years. 01823 285921 www.kingshalltaunton.co.uk Little Boots Day Nursery (Ages 0-5, 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

Perrott Hill Montessori Nursery and Pre-Prep. Given ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted, the 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 (age range 3-13) as well as having their own outdoor adventure play area. The staff are warm and friendly. Free after school care is available. 01460 72051 www.perrotthill.com Queen’s College Highgrove Nursery, Nursery School, Pre-Prep and Reception 0-5 years. Queen’s Pre Prep and Junior School is renowned for excellence in infant and junior education and care. The team at Queen’s Highgrove Nursery embrace such standards of education

and development offering year round care 0-3 years. Queen’s Nursery School is situated in the Pre-Prep Department and it is here that the stepping stones to a formal education are laid. Highly qualified and experienced Nursery School staff work in close liaison with parents and the Highgrove Nursery team, ensuring a smooth and personalised transition. Queen’s offers well-established parent and toddler groups. Queen’s Pre-Prep takes pride in providing a rich, stimulating and diverse education within a nurturing and caring environment. www.queenscollege.org.uk 01823 278928, junioradmissions@queenscollege. org.uk Rydal Day Nursery, Clevedon, is bright, fun and full of learning opportunities and happy children. Run by a fully qualified dynamic team, in a Makaton friendly setting and are "I Can accredited". Outstanding Ofsed July 2015. Open 8-6pm Monday-Thursday, 8am-5.30pm Friday all year. Two and Three year old funding accepted. www.rydaldaynursery.co.uk 01275 342352 Smartees Day Care Nursery Ltd offers professional and flexible childcare for working families, with 2 conveniently located nurseries close to town centre. Smartees Preston Road opening hours 7am-6pm 01935 411144 Smartees Beer Street opening hours 8am-6pm 01935 411777 Sunny Hill Pre-School and Pre-Prep (Ages 3 - 7), Sunny Hill welcomes pre-school and primary school-aged

children, taking girls from 3-11 years old and boys aged 3-7. Situated in the beautiful market town of Bruton on the 40 acre campus of 'big sister' school, Bruton School for Girls. Small classes mean that every child receives high quality individual attention; your child will not get ‘lost in the crowd’ at Sunny Hill. They will be treasured; we are interested in the individual child, they have our time and our attention. Wrap around care available. To arrange a visit or taster session please contact Mrs Carrie Crook in Admissions on 01749 824400 or email admissions@brutonschool.co.uk Taunton Nursery School for children from 0 years. Flexible Nursery Education, 7.30am5.45pm. Highly qualified teachers. Spectacular grounds and facilities used by all. Children can attend a combination of morning, afternoon and late club sessions. 01823 703300 www.tauntonschool.co.uk Wellington Prep School Nursery Attractive, well-designed buildings. Talented teachers. Cheerful children. Proud parents. All this can be yours at Wellington Prep School Nursery and Pre-Nursery. EYFS can be redeemed against our fees. We would love to have your children from 2 years upwards. Open 50 weeks per year. Please enjoy our website www.wellington-school.org.uk or call Maria Kerr to arrange a visit. 01823 668700 Little Wellies Term time Toddler group. Open to all pre-school children every Thursday morning 9.15-11.15am, Wellington Prep School Hall. £3 per child and £1 per additional child weekly charge. Contact Maria Kerr for more details 01823 668700 prep@wellington-school.org.uk

To book our Nursery Directory, please call 01458 250461

Happy Days, Animals and Holiday Fun “I take my family to Torridge House Cottages, it is comfortably relaxed and is a good place to be. Young families stay in the cottages – there are 8 in all – so you meet up with like-minded people. The children make friends easily” There’s lots to do on site, it’s easy going and relaxed, the children can run around and play, plus, together with the grown-ups, they really enjoy the animal feeding times with lots of hands-on action. The holiday cottages are in attractive open gardens with 12 Parent Talk January 2017

for and prepared with families in mind. The surrounding gardens are wide open interesting spaces, with lots of fresh clean air and animals to get close to and look after. Torridge House Cottages thoroughly delight in making holidaymakers feel at home and creating a relaxed, fun environment for everyone and they have the VisitEngland Rose Award to prove it! Torridge House Cottages is the place to be for easy going family holiday action, great views, great countryside around, they are very well cared

for hands-on animal care with lots of cuddles, plenty of play opportunities and good value, lovely cottages. Attractions like The Big Sheep, The Milky Way, Tarka Trail abound nearby with quaint villages and quaint names like Sheepwash, Appledore and Woolfardisworthy. Also fishing villages, seaside and market towns, friendly cafes and pubs, sandy beaches, walks, woodlands, cycling, moors and much more.

See www.torridgehouse.co.uk for details or call us on 01805 622542

Family Farm Holidays

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 29 years. Highly recommended. ‘VisitBritain 3 & 4 star’

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

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Fantastic opportunities at Jabberwocky Children’s Nursery

Spaces are available at Jabberwocky. Jabberwocky Children's Nursery Ltd is a private full day care setting,

open 51 weeks of the year, 07.30 until 18.00. We care for children from the tender age of 3 months to 4 years

Jabberwocky Children’s Nursery Ltd Unit 2 The Tanyard Leigh Road Street Somerset BA16 0HD 01458 446999

Boarding: Cheaper than a babysitter?

11 months, engaging them in play and extending their learning and experience of our world. Our staff at Jabberwocky have excellent and varied experience in the child care sector This gives Jabberwocky a diversity of skills and ideas which helps us provide our children with a very wide range of activities, and learning opportunities. We not only offer fantastic opportunities for your children to learn and grow, we also provide extra curricular activities included in the price: ■ Football sessions with a qualified coach. The perception of boarding can sometimes be that it is an ■ Tennis sessions with a expensive option, but at All qualified coach. Hallows boarding packages ■ Forest School sessions with can start from as little as £21 a an experienced Forest School night, so can work out cheaper Leader. Wesessions take children from 3than months a babysitter, with staff ■ French with Sarah. to Fri, more qualified. Fromto school January age wefrom areMoninfinitely rural, catholic prep offering more– extra 7.30am 6pm,curricular 51 weeks of As the ayear school in an affluent area, activities ranging from cooking Breakfast,Funding After School, Holidaywith a 'London' set of popular to woodwork. for (School drop off). we must be in tune two,Club three and pick four up yearand parents, olds accepted. t: 01458 446999with the dynamics of different family lives and to ensure we Gete: info@jabberwockynursery.com in touch today are well placed to be the best 01458 446999 or info@ w: www.jabberwockynursery.com 'Partner in parenting' that we jabberwockynursery.com

Rogers Nursery Ltd., Unit 2, The Tanyard, Leigh Road, Street, Somerset BA16 0HD

can be for all of them. Our boarding families have long valued the 'home from home feel' within our school and our boarding house, and the very strong pastoral care coupled with academic excellence we provide for their children. Our flexible boarding packages are perfect for busy parents trying to juggle careers and time in the city with providing their children with a very rural childhood and flexi-boarding makes All Hallows' accessible to parents who aspire to send their

children to us from a slightly further afield catchment area whilst also helping to balance the lives of our day families as needed. Flexible boarding ensures that the boarding house is a vibrant, exciting place to be with no shortage of mentors and role models – ensuring that the children who stay there are best placed to get the most out of their education. Have a look around our boarding facilities at our Open Morning Saturday 28th January.

Psst…

There is a fabulous Independent Preparatory School just around the corner… We can offer your child: • the freedom to learn through feeling safe, happy and valued • small class sizes, single year groups and personalised learning

• the opportunity to discover their creative talents through the arts, drama and music • excellent coaching, superb facilities and competitive sports opportunities • transport available from surrounding areas.

COME AND VISIT US

admissions@allhallowsschool.co.uk allhallowsschool.co.uk

OPEN MORNING. Saturday 28th January 2017 Parent Talk January 2017 13

BOOK REVIEW

Editor’s choice Town and Country A Turnaround Book Illustrated by Craig Shuttlewood Published by Ivy Kids Age guide: 3+ Compare town and country scenes full of clever little details in this beautiful new Turnaround Book – spot buses, trains, and skyscrapers in the town and tractors, mountains, and farm animals in the country. Open the book one way to explore the town scene and then flip the book over to delve into the country landscape. What can you see that’s the same in both scenes? What can you spot that’s different? With a mini glossary for each picture – featuring tiny pictures picked out from the main scene – Town and Country is completely absorbing for children who are just starting to engage with simple written words.

The Smartest Giant in Town 15th Anniversary Edition By Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler Published by Macmillan Children’s Books Age guide: 3-7 years George wishes he wasn’t the scruffiest giant in town. So when he sees a new shop selling giant-sized clothes, he decides it’s time for a new look: smart trousers, smart shirt, stripy tie, shiny shoes. Now he’s the smartest giant in town…until he bumps into some animals who desperately need his help – and his clothes! Join George on his journey in this special anniversary edition. Ten Terrible Dinosaurs By Paul Stickland Published by Macmillan Children’s Books Age guide: 2-5 years Ten terrible dinosaurs standing in a line, soon began to mess about and then there were….nine. This lively counting book, first published in 1997 and now reissued as a new edition, is based on the characters from ‘Dinosaur Roar!’, a picture book that is now recognised as a modern classic. The rhyming text encourages children to join in, helping them to learn their numbers as they count down from 10 to 1, ending with a wonderful loud ROAR!

The 78-Storey Treehouse By Andy Griffiths Illustrated by Terry Denton Published by Macmillan Children’s Books Age guide: 9-12 years ‘The 78-Storey Treehouse’ is the sixth book in Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton’s wacky treehouse adventures, where the laugh-out loud story is told through a combination of text and fantastic cartoon-style illustrations.

14 Parent Talk January 2017

100 Hugs By Chris Riddell Published by Macmillan Children’s Books Who doesn’t need a hug in January? From the multi-awardwinning illustrator Chris Riddell comes a wonderful selection of one hundred illustrated hugs to warm even the hardest hearts. This fantastic book features a variety of different illustrations from animals to aliens, families and friends, perfectly conveying warmth, humour and love in many different ways. Some familiar faces also make an appearance including Alice in Wonderland, the Three Little Pigs and Pinocchio. With each illustration 100 Hugs will take readers on an emotional journey thanks to the beautiful illustrations and gentle humour, making it the perfect gift for everyone.

Welcome to Nowhere By Elizabeth Laird Published by Macmillan Children’s Books Age guide: 10+ ‘Welcome to Nowhere’ tells the story of twelveyear-old Omar and his family, born and raised in the beautiful and bustling city of Bosra, Syria. Omar doesn't care about politics – all he wants is to grow up to become a successful businessman who will take the world by storm. But when his clever older brother, Musa, gets mixed up with some young political activists, everything changes. Very soon, bombs are falling, people are dying, and Omar and his family have no choice but to flee their home with only what they can carry. Yet no matter how far they run, the shadow of war follows them – until they have no other choice than to attempt the dangerous journey to escape their homeland altogether.

My Son’s Not Rainman: One Man, One Boy with Autism, a Million Adventures Written and narrated by John Williams Publisher: Audible Studios Length 7 hrs and 24 mins, Unabridged Audiobook available at audible.co.uk ‘My Son's Not Rainman’ is a heartfelt and uplifting account of everyday events in the life of John and his son (The Boy). The Boy is 12 years old and autistic. He isn't a genius. His only special power is making his dad laugh. A lot. Following the success of his

A Thin Place: where two worlds meet By Gordon Smith Published by Cove House Publishing ‘A Thin Place’ is aimed at reaching an audience of both children and adults with the hope of letting them understand their feelings and emotions when dealing with loss. There are many books written on these subjects in the adult market, but very few accessible to the younger reader. This book takes a unique approach to helping children especially understand loss and the emotions of those around them.

Feeding the Whole Family By Cynthia Lair Published by Sasquatch ‘Feeding the Whole Family’, Cynthia Lair’s classic cookbook, has long been the source for parents who want to cook one healthy meal for the entire family, including babies. In this revised edition, there are 200 recipes that can be enjoyed and shared with the whole family – babies, children and grownups alike – from breakfast right through to dessert and including salads, soups and much more. Each recipe is created to be adaptable for babies just starting solids as well as older babies and toddlers. How to Raise a Feminist By Allison Vale and Victoria Ralfs Published by Little Brown Growing up in the ’70s, neither Allison Vale nor Victoria Ralfs reckoned they needed feminism. But years of settling for the smallest chops at the dinner table, getting battered in British Bulldog, and negotiating the flasher down the lane, left them feeling uneasy: had feminism been the missing link?

blog, John talks not just about the difficulties of having a child who is considered 'different' but also the joy of living with someone who looks at the world in a unique way. This isn't a story about autism but a story about a boy who happens to have autism, and there is a big difference. While being honest about the struggles of getting a diagnosis and the dismay of having his child excluded from schools, John rarely dwells on the downside of his son's condition, preferring instead to look at the happiness and insight his son has given him.

The Happiest Kids in the World By Rina Mae Acosta and Michele Hutchinson Published by Penguin What is the secret to bringing up the happiest kids in the world? In a recent UNICEF study of child wellbeing, Dutch children came out on top as the happiest allround. Rina Mae Acosta and Michele Hutchinson, both married to Dutchmen and bringing up their kids in Holland, examine the unique environment that enables the Dutch to turn out such contented, well-adjusted and healthy babies, children and teens.

Here they join forces as mothers, educators, story-tellers and women, to tell the riotous story of how they came to put feminism at the core of their parenting. ‘How to Raise a Feminist’ is for those unnerved by the pressure to be perfect; a ‘good enough’ guide to raising your children into gloriously gutsy, empathetic, likeable young people, irrespective of their gender.

CLASSIFIED

British Parents are not confident in basic parenting skills, new expert cohort reveals A survey from expert-led online parenting resource Essential Parent has found that British parents lack confidence in many areas of parenting - including life-saving skills such being able to perform CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) on babies or children, recognizing the symptoms of meningitis, feeding newborns, and monitoring the safety of teenagers online. Essential Parent, which is advised by both Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH), the St John Ambulance and UNICEF UK Baby Friendly, surveyed over 1000 UK parents of children aged 0-18 found that: ■ Less than 8% of parents felt very confident about performing CPR in an emergency; ■ Over 90% weren’t confident about identifying the symptoms of meningitis; ■ 85% didn’t know newborns’ stomachs are only the size of a marble; ■ Over 80% weren’t aware of the link between sleep deprivation and obesity in children;

Over 75% didn’t know that blue light emitted from screens disrupt children’s sleep; ■ Over 75% didn't feel confident in how to keep their child safe online; ■ Less than 25% of parents felt sufficiently confident to recognise or deal with bullying. ■ Nearly 50% of parents have concerns about safe and potentially life-saving vaccinations; ■ Nearly 50% of respondents had concerns about breastfeeding (primarily whether babies are getting enough milk); Dr Rebecca Chicot, child development expert and cofounder of Essential Parent, said: ■

“Parents clearly don’t feel confident in their own parenting skills. The knowledge and warm reassurance that used to be passed down from mothers and grandmothers, who were on-hand to offer support in the days of the extended family, has been replaced by advice from many different sources, many of which are contradictory, opinionated and not based on scientific evidence. Parents are hungry for knowledge, which ideally should come from a trusted expert source of evidence based information. We created Essential Parent with exactly this in mind, and

How Essential Parent helps UK parents Meningitis: Despite the current media attention and the great work that charities such as the Meningitis Research Trust are doing, 90% of parents surveyed are still not confident that they will recognise the symptoms of meningitis. Sadly, one in 10 babies who contract meningitis die and one in four is left with after-effects sometimes as severe as deafness, brain damage and amputation. About two deaths will occur almost every week in children under a year old. Early recognition is particularly important in babies. Consultant Paediatrician Dr. Anna Maw says: “It is vital that new parents have the confidence and knowledge to seek emergency medical treatment for their baby or child if they show symptoms of meningitis. Once familiar with the symptoms, you can feel more confident about knowing when to get your child to A&E.” Essential Parent, with specialist footage from the Meningitis Research Trust has produced a video tutorial – very clearly showing parents how to recognise the symptoms and explaining when to get medical treatment fast. Obesity With an increasing number of UK children being diagnosed as obese and paediatricians having to deal with type two

diabetes for the first time in the UK, the research revealed that only 8% of parents thought their child was obese or overweight despite national statistics indicating that over 30% of 10-11 year-olds and over 20% of 4-5 year-olds are overweight or obese. A new study by researchers at University College London revealed that irregular bedtimes and insufficient sleep in childhood may also result in increased calorie consumption and obesity. Essential Parent expert and NHS child sleep consultant Mandy Gurney says: “Sleep is vital to good health, as this research has highlighted. Parents are unclear as to how much sleep their children really need, but Essential Parent can help and offers evidence-based advice on creating effective sleep routines.” Essential Parent Dietitian, Melissa Little, offers straightforward advice on healthy, balanced diets for babies and children. Breastfeeding Nearly half of parents surveyed admitted that they are simply not confident about breastfeeding, with one of the biggest worries for new mums being that they’re not producing enough milk. But a newborn’s stomach is only the size of a marble and therefore can only take a very small amount of milk at each feed in the early days. Unfounded worry like this could be avoided if more women were

have brought together a cohort of the UK’s leading experts and expert organisations including leading paediatricians, GPs, nutritional scientists, breastfeeding advisors, health visitors and psychologists to help support parents, whether they have a newborn, preschooler or teenager. Essential Parent has created content to match today’s lifestyle, with expert advice available on the go, via smartphone at the touch of a button. See for yourself at: www.essentialparent.com.

FACT SHEET

MAGIC & BALLOONS

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CATHERINE’S MAGIC ENTERTAINMENT For tailor-made Magic Shows, Mini Discos, Games and Balloon Twisting Family Fun For Everyone!! Ideal For Any Party, Large or Small, Indoors or Out 07770 227812 catherine@magicentertainment.co.uk [c/w enhanced DBS for added peace of mind]

Experienced registered childminder in idyllic rural location 5 mins from A303 has vacancy

‘EXCELLENT’ -OFSTED INSPECTION

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given this information around the time of the birth of their baby. Despite Department of Health recommendations that babies should be breastfeed exclusively for the first six months of life, the UK has the lowest breastfeeding rates in Europe and this is in part due to a lack of confidence in women that they can breastfeed. Essential Parent and UNICEF breastfeeding consultant Sally Tedstone explains the basics, and super clear ‘how-to’ online videos show new mums exactly what to do. Screen time New research has revealed that children are spending so much time on screens that it affecting their physical development - leaving many children with less core

To find out more visit: www.essentialparent.com

strength and balance than previous generations. In addition, blue light from screens also disrupts sleep hormones, meaning that many children are not getting the quality sleep they need (children who are very sleepdeprived may exhibit ADHDtype behaviour, putting them at risk of a misdiagnosis of the condition). Essential Parent expert and head teacher at Hacklab, Mark Calleja, offers parents practical advice on how to encourage their children to use technology safely. Mark says: “The survey results are worrying as parents are still not aware of the impact prolonged screen time has on their child’s development and are struggling with how to help their children in a virtual world.”

is currently recruiting to cover the whole of Somerset (excluding Bath). If you have childcare experience and enjoy working with children we would love to hear from you. Babysitters needed evenings and weekends. For further information and details on how to apply please visit www.quantockbabysitting.co.uk

Quirky Textile Art at the Ilminster Arts Center

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FEBRUARY issue copy deadline 18th January 2017 Call 01458 250461 Parent Talk January 2017 15