Parent Talk November 2017

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

November 2017 Volume 24 Issue 10

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Parent talk contents Out & About

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Events

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Book Bag

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Win a Classic World wooden toy bundle from Hippychick

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Nursery Directory

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Education, information

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Book Review

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Classified

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Dear Readers...

I hope you all enjoyed half term break and are feeling ready to get into gear for Christmas! This is the month when there are some great markets for buying those really special gifts and saving you from last minute stress on Christmas Eve! It’s also the time to be thinking about Pantomimes and as ever there are some great shows on. Of course, if you’re hoping to see Mr FC, as he’s known in our house, then you might catch him on a steam train with West Somerset Railway or even at a popular garden centre but be sure to book!

We’ll be back next month with more ideas for Christmas and how to keep ahead of all the preparations.

Happy reading!

Tamsin

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.

Editor Tamsin Humphreys Advertising Juliet Barber Production Sarah Harmer December deadline 15th November 2017 To guarantee receiving your copy of Parent Talk every month why not take out a subscription for just £17 a year and it will be sent to your door?

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01458 250461 Competition winners Rock Dog DVD Rachael Smith, Weston Super Mare Ellen Stafford, Radstock J Cooper, Highbridge

Buggi lights Debbie Harcombe, Radstock Joy Whitelock, Bridgwater Joanne Gage, Plymouth

We’ve teamed up with our friends at Hippychick to give you the chance to win a bundle of toys from their new Classic World range – give them to your little ones, hold

on to them for Christmas or have a little play yourself!

Classic World have a straightforward philosophy, ‘Happy Playing, Happy Learning!’ They have created

a range of carefully selected bright, vibrant and educational toys that even the most discerning toddler will enjoy!

Win a Toolbench complete with all the nuts, bolts and tools of the trade – it even comes with a little wooden mobile phone to take those all important work calls, a Magic Ball that can be twisted and bent into all sorts of shapes, and a 100 blocks set to build everything imaginable.

To be in with a chance of winning, please email enter@ hippychick.com and tell us who

you would like to win them for!

Competition closes 30/11/17, winners will selected at random and notified by email.

Protect your children's hearing this Bonfire Night National charity Action on Hearing Loss is urging parents to protect their children’s hearing over the Bonfire Night festivities.

Children across the UK will be coming out in full force to watch the firework displays on November 5, but many parents do not realise that exposing a child to booming firecrackers and whistling Catherine wheels could be putting their hearing at risk of permanent damage.

Any sound over 85db is viewed as harmful to your hearing and a firework display averages around 120dB, which is the equivalent of a jet taking off.

However, there is no reason to stop them from enjoying the spectacle, so Action on Hearing Loss has offered some top tips to protect children from the cacophony of fireworks.

The charity recommends that when attending the celebrations, children should wear noise-reducing ear defenders; keep 50 to 60 metres away from all sources of loud noise; and limit the duration of exposure to loud noises, as the louder the noise the less time it takes to damage hearing permanently.

Audiologist at Action on Hearing Loss, Vaitheki Maheswaran, said: “Take steps to protect your hearing at loud events by wearing ear plugs!

“We also encourage protecting your children’s hearing as it’s difficult to say when a small child's hearing is at risk. Their tiny ears can be more sensitive than adult ears to certain high-pitched sounds.

The best way to protect your child’s hearing is by using ear defenders that are specially designed for children.”

Exposure to loud sounds can cause noise-induced hearing loss or tinnitus. Tinnitus is often described as a ‘ringing in your ears’ but some people might also hear buzzing, whistling or whooshing. Although there is

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no cure for it, there is support available to help people manage it.

For further information on tinnitus and support services, or to buy ear defenders, call our helpline on 0808 808 9000 or visit www.actiononhearingloss. org.uk

Instant classics www.hippychick.com 01278 434440

Parent Talk November 2017 3

OUT & ABOUT

Winter Wonderland at Puxton Park Once upon a time in a village called Hewish, Father Christmas and Mrs. Claus excitedly announced that Puxton Park was building them a new Cosy Cottage. A traditional stone cottage, set amid the beautifully decorated trees and glimmering walkways at Puxton Park, this is the perfect place for your little ones to meet Father Christmas and Mrs. Claus.

This holiday season is going to be the most festive and joyous time for everyone that visits Puxton Parks Winter Wonderland. The park will be adorned with colorful and joyous decorations that will soon put you in the Christmas

spirit. Our Winter Wonderland opens on the 25th November and Father Christmas will be with us every weekend in December as well as the 1922nd when he joins us for Supper with Santa. Supper

with Santa includes buffet tea, ice-cream, a festive disco and a gift from Father Christmas.

During this time, Puxton Park will be hosting fun Christmas craft days where you can decorate your very own Christmas ornament. Santa’s reindeer will also be coming out to play! Christmas is their favorite time of the year. At the beginning of December, we will be hosting a grand Christmas Tree Lighting. We are making sure that our tree is so sparkly and bright that Father Christmas can’t miss it from his sleigh.

Come and join all the festive fun this year at Puxton Park.

Visit Puxton.co.uk for more information or call 01934 523500.

A Go-Kart Party– great fun for boys and girls If you are looking for a party that is really different, exciting, great fun and hassle free then look no further than Go-Kart Party.

Nathan and his team offer both boys and girls of 4 -10 years a unique opportunity to race battery powered go-karts around an inflatable mini Grand Prix circuit.

The parties are fully hosted and structured and fun games such as cops and robbers, cone dodging, reversing and emergency stopping will give the children an experience they will never forget.

Kart speeds and games are

tailored to the age and ability of the children so whether they are aged 4 or 10 the kids will have an amazing time and will feel a real sense of achievement

Call Nathan on: 07703 719 402

www.gokartpartysw.co.uk nathan@go-kartparty.co.uk facebook.com/GoKartPartySW TA postcodes only

4 Parent Talk November 2017

when they pick up their certificate and possibly the GoKart Party Best Driver trophy at the end of the party!

Available indoors in numerous leisure centres and sports halls across Somerset, or even outside at your home, GoKart Party is accessible all year round at a venue near you.

You can check out the fantastic feedback Nathan receives from parents on www.facebook.com/ GoKartPartySW and for more information contact Nathan on 07703 719 402, nathan@go-kartparty.co.uk or visit www.gokartpartysw.co.uk

The swimming industry has launched a campaign to inspire the country to Love Swimming by getting families off their screens and into the pool In the digital age, children are spending a great deal of time on their screens and, at a time when we are never more connected to the world via the internet, families have revealed they have never felt more disconnected within the family unit.

With the release of an impactful film featuring a real family, the Roberts, and illustrating ’Because their console doesn’t work underwater’, Swim England and nine partners from the swimming sector are driving home the message that real-world connection has significant advantages over digital immersion, with the pool providing a complete escape from the digital world – one of the few places where families cannot take a console compared to other family activities.

The swimming industry is encouraging people across the country to get off their screens and back into family fun by putting aside technology once a week and instead visiting their local pool to enjoy spending time together, being active and reconnecting in the real world.

In a 2017 OnePoll survey, commissioned by Discover Ferries, almost 9 in 10 people agreed gadgets get in the way of spending quality family time together, with families only spending 36 minutes together on an average weekday.

Seven out of 10 parents even recognised there are times when they could be spending time with their children, but are busy playing on their phone or tablet instead.

Ofcom’s 2017 Annual Report announced the internet has overtaken television as the top media pastime for British children, who are now spending 15 hours a week online, while the Children’s Commissioner is encouraging parents to give children time to

switch off and get moving.

Love Swimming is aimed at the one-third of people for whom, according to Ofcom, there is ‘general acceptance’ of families sitting in the same room but all on different screens and gadgets to watch a TV show, catch up on social media or play a game.

Jane Nickerson, CEO of Swim England and Swim Group Chair, said: “Families are spending less time together in this day and age. When they are together, they are often watching TV or gadgets individually rather than being active.

“Through our new Love Swimming campaign, we are encouraging every family to put down their screens and dedicate a window every week to going down to their local swimming pool to spend quality time together, having fun and being active.

“We’re calling on mums, dads, children and grandparents to find their nearest pool and rediscover the enjoyment of interacting and reconnecting as a family.”

Geoff Roberts, father of Ethyn (aged 8) and Isla (aged 5) who appear in the Love Swimming film, said: “As a dad, this has really opened my

eyes to how much we use our screens when we are together as a family. The constant ‘put the console down’ was just a normal day in our household.

Getting the chance to spend a few hours every week together at the pool has not only meant we are more active as a family, but we have the opportunity to spend more quality time together and most importantly have fun! It’s been very rewarding to see the effects connecting us more as a family unit, not just at our local pool but back at home as well.”

Whether it’s the kids playing on their console, Dad in front of the TV and Mum online, now more than ever families say they want to spend more time disconnected from their screens and reconnected as a family. Dedicating a window every week to swimming together creates a precious opportunity to do just that, according to Swim England and the Love Swimming partners.

Customers can visit the Swim England pool finder tool at www.swimming.org/ loveswimming and find out more information about their nearest pool and how they can easily swap screen time for swim time.

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OUT & ABOUT

Christmas with Aladdin at West Somerset Bristol Hippodrome Railway Jump aboard Aladdin’s high-flying magical carpet headed for Old Peking and make tickets for this year’s spectacular Bristol Hippodrome pantomime one of your three wishes!

Starring comedy legend Joe Pasquale as Wishee Washee, recording and musical theatre star Marti Pellow as Abanazar and Emmerdale and Coronation Street’s Hayley Tamaddon as Princess Jasmine, Aladdin is a beautiful love story featuring flying carpets, a wish-granting genie and lamp full of spectacular family entertainment.

Aladdin is produced by Qdos Entertainment, the world’s biggest pantomime producer. Qdos Entertainment

stages productions of West End scale and quality, featuring spectacular effects, stunning costumes and lots of laughout-loud humour.

Michael Harrison, Managing Director of Qdos Entertainment’s pantomimes division said, “We are absolutely delighted to be bringing Joe Pasquale, Marti Pellow and Hayley Tamaddon to The Bristol Hippodrome this Christmas. Joe, Marti and Hayley are exceptional panto performers, so we know that Bristol audiences will be in very safe hands this Christmas.”

This year’s Bristol Hippodrome pantomime will include a magical 3D sequence, which will see audiences transported to

Dick Whittington Sat 2 Dec - Sun 7 Jan Pantomime comes home to the Northcott with a spectacular new staging of Dick Whittington, starring Exeter’s most popular Dame – Steve Bennett and directed by one of the country’s leading pantomime directors, Tony Lidington.

With his faithful Puss by his side, Dick leaves his Exeter home for the bright lights of London in search of fame and fortune.

Follow his adventures as he reaches the big city and travels the high seas. Will Dick find his fortune? Can he and Puss defeat the evil villain King Rat and

Old Peking on a sensational magical carpet ride adventure plus some incredible surprises!

Join us for the magical adventure of ALADDIN at the Tivoli Theatre!

This spectacular production, with dazzling costumes and song and dance numbers, is the perfect treat for the whole family this Christmas! If you’ve

return home triumphant?

Expect plenty of audience participation, live music, magic, mayhem and lots of laughter – the perfect recipe for a family Christmas panto treat! Family tickets start from just £24 for 3.

Don’t miss it, fly to the box office today!

been to one our Pantomimes before, you’ll know they really are the BEST value and tickets sell VERY fast – so don’t hesitate, book now!

Call 01202 885566 or visit www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk for dates & times.

Tickets: Adult £16.50 / Child under 16 £13/ 1 in 10 free available via Box Office

Visit exeternorthcott.co.uk or call the Exeter Northcott Theatre box office on 01392 72 63 63 for more information and tickets.

Take a magical journey on the West Somerset Railway this Christmas with one of our Specials. We have something for everyone. Travel by train to Dunster By Candlelight where the medieval village turns its back on the modern day, and lights up its streets and shops with candlelight where possible. Our services leave at various times on 1st and 2nd December.

Our Carol Trains are held in the evening of 11th and 12th December from either Bishops Lydeard or Minehead, where our steam trains meander through the darkness to Williton, stopping off at stations along the way where you can alight and sing Christmas Carols

accompanied by a brass band.

Why not treat the kids to a ride on the Santa Express, your ticket will include your steam train travel from Bishops Lydeard or Minehead to Williton, a visit from Santa and a present for all children, refreshments and an entertainer are also on board. We have various dates throughout the month of December so please check our website for more details.

The Santa Specials include a visit to Santa in his grotto and your ticket will include your steam train travel from Bishops Lydeard to Crowcombe, or Minehead to Blue Anchor, a visit to Santa and a present for children. Refreshments and an entertainer are also on board.

Due to the popularity of the above events, we strongly advise to book in advance via www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk or over the phone 01643 704996.

WEST SOMERSET

RAILWAY

Trains Join us Santa in December...

- Various dates in December

Winter Steam Festival - 29th & 30th December

Carol Trains

- 11th & 12th December

Sherry & Mince Pie - Various dates in December

Dunster by Candlelight - 1st & 2nd December

Book online at www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk or telephone 01643 704996

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Parent Talk November 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 .

3rd-5th November: Great Odds. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. What does it mean to follow a dream when you don’t fit in and the odds are stacked against you? Exploring ambition, communication and friendship, the story follows the Great Odds: Marco, Grouch and Jewels on an exciting and sometimes wobbly journey…

Integrating visual storytelling, British Sign Language, live music, sound and puppetry. Age: 6+. Fri: 1pm, Sat-Sun: 11.30am & 3pm.

01225 823409 4th November: Fireworks and late-night Christmas shopping at Clarks Village, Street, BA16 0BB. Join Clarks Village for a free evening of explosive firework.

Spend the evening with friends and family plus late night shopping to launch the season of giving. All stores will be in full Christmas mode with their seasonal window displays and special festive offers. Fireworks display at 7.15pm.

4th November: Fire Magic Fireworks at Puxton Park, Hewish, BS24 6AH. The Park will re-open at 5pm with display starting at 7pm with many attractions open and children’s rides brought in alongside stalls, hog roasts and BBQ. 01934 523500 4th-5th November: The Tiger Who Came To Tea. The Octagon Theatre, Yeovil, BA20 1UX. A musical play based on the book by Judith Kerr. Following a smash-hit West End season the tea-guzzling tiger is back on the road in this delightful family show packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos. Sat: 1.30pm, Sun: 11am & 2pm. 01935 422884

9th November: The Nutcracker – Ballet Theatre UK. The Regal Theatre, Minehead, TA24 5UQ. This new production is an enchanting adventure beautifully told through the magic of dance and delighting audiences young and old. 7.30pm.

01643 706430 10th-12th November: Apple John. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. A woman sits on a train.

As the gentle rocking awakens the baby inside her, she starts to eat an apple and finds that its seeds have already started to sprout. She throws the core out of the window. Whoosh. A jolt and the baby is on the way.

John is born. And that night, out by the railway, an apple tree starts to grow. This is a tale about growing up, finding your roots and adding rings to the trunk.

Age: 5-11 years. Fri: 1pm, Sat-Sun: 1.30am & 3pm 01225 823409 11th -12th November: Spotlight Dance Academy – MOVE BEYOND. The Regal Theatre, Minehead, TA24 5UQ. Spotlight Dance Academy’s sixth annual showcase with talented performances from children aged 4 up to adults. Sat: 7.30pm, Sun: 2.30pm. 01643 706430 13th November: Born to Go Wild. Ray Mears at The Playhouse, Weston super Mare,

Bodley Craft Studio Bodley Craft Studio offers creative Holiday Clubs for 6-14 year olds. Days are packed with different crafts, activities, games, quizzes and more! Every day is different and FUN! When: Days run from 9-5pm (we can be flexible).

Where: Bodley Yard, Ford Street, Wellington TA21 9PG What to bring: Packed lunch

Craft Studio Holiday Clubs for 6+

and drinks for the day. Boots and coat. Wear old clothes as you may get messy!

Bookings now being taken for holiday clubs which run on 18th, 19th and 22nd December and 2nd and 4th January. We also offer workshops for adults and children varying from PixelHobby to wreath making!

See www.bodleycraft.co.uk for more details.

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 November 2017

BS23 1HP. From a very young age Ray discovered the joys of exploring the Wilderness, the most intact, undisturbed wild natural areas left on our planet.

In this show, Ray takes you on a journey that he deeply values for cultural, spiritual, moral and aesthetic reasons and explains why he believes these are vital for the human spirit and creativity. 7.30pm.

01934 645544 15th November: The Three Musketeers. The Regal Theatre, Minehead, TA24 5UQ. Join D’Artagnan and his friends Porthos, Athos and Aramis, in their quest against the

scheming Cardinal Richelieu.

A rip roaring, fast paced, swashbuckling show ideal for families (aged 5+).

01643 706430.

16th November: Shakespeare Schools Festival 2017. The Brewhouse, Taunton, TA1 1JL. A celebratory finale when 30,000 young people from primary, secondary and special schools across the country will unite in their local professional theatre in thrilling performance evenings.

An exhilarating evening of theatre where you will see Shakespeare’s stories brought to life like never before. 7pm.

01823 283244 16th November: Ensonglopedia of Science.

Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre, Taunton, TA2 8PD. A song about science for every letter of the alphabet. Expect atoms, Big Bangs, cells, DNA and plenty more besides. The Ensonglopedia of Science is the brand new show by John Hinton, multi-awardwinning writer and performer of the Scientrilogy of musical comedies about Charles Darwin, Albert Einstein and Marie Curie.

7.30pm. Ages: 7+. 01823 414141 17th-19th November: LEAF. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. A leaf is born…It grows and glows in the sunshine and the rain. Then the wind blows and it becomes colder. The leaf changes colour. In the snow, the leaf falls…but when spring comes, a new leaf grows. A

warm, intimate and playful new piece for under 3s inspired by nature and the seasons.

11.30am, 1.3pm & 3pm.

Age: 0-3 years. 01225 823409 18th November: Lost and Found. The Brewhouse, Taunton, TA1 1JL. Produced

by Little Blue Monster Theatre Company and based on the book by Oliver Jeffers. Get ready to set sail on a magical adventure with a little boy and a lost penguin. 11.30am. Age: 3+.

01823 283244 18th-19th November: Rural Living Show. King’s Hall School, TA2 8AA. A large, annual Christmas craft and lifestyle market held just outside Taunton. The show offers specialist crafts and artisan food from the South West. With more than 130 stands, including craft demonstrations, handmade Christmas gifts and children’s entertainment. Sat: 10am-5pm, Sun: 10am-4pm. 01823 323363 20th November: The Nutcracker. The Octagon Theatre, Yeovil, BA20 1UX. Traditionally Russian State Ballet and Opera House is back for their annual UK tour with the vibrant and enchanting full ballet production. Octagon theatre, Yeovil. 7.30pm.

01935 422884 22nd-23rd November: The Ladybirds. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. A short performance followed by a facilitated play session where everyone gets to play and

explore adventures based on the show. Age: 4 months – 5 years. 10am & 11.15am.

01225 823409 25th November: Christmas Craft & Produce Fair.

Princess Royal Sports Centre, Wellington, TA21 8NT. 10am-2pm. 01823 668858 25th November: Christmas Craft Fair, Monks Yard, Ilminster, TA19 9PT 10am-4pm.

01823 481099 25th-26th November: Ferne Animal Sanctuary Christmas Craft Fair, Wambrook, Chard TA20 3DH. 10am-3pm.

01460 65214 25th-26th November: Hansel and Gretel. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. A musical theatre version of this classic brother and sister tale of adventure and magic. 11.30am & 3pm. Age: 4+. 01225 823409 29th November: Homemade Christmas Decorations.

Workshop at Bodley Craft Studio, Ford Street, Wellington, TA21 9PG. Make Christmas special and impress your guests with lovely handmade decorations for the table and home. 7-9.15pm. £20 per person. 07525 127878 2nd December: Festive Felting. Workshop at Bodley Craft Studio, Ford Street, Wellington, TA21 9PG. Learn how to make your own gorgeous 3D felted character for a really special Christmas decoration. £20 per person.

10am-12 noon. 07525 127878

The Man Engine will rise in Somerset next year Visits radstock 6th april Cornwall’s colossal engineering miracle is set to rise again After recent news of the win of the ‘Best Arts Project’ in the prestigious National Lottery Awards, it has been announced that the largest mechanical puppet ever constructed in Britain will rise again next Easter in a sparkling ‘Resurrection Tour.’

The Man Engine, powered by Volvo, steamed the length of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site last summer, unearthing a deep lode of passion and pride.

Now, the colossal mechanical miner is set for his Resurrection Tour across Cornwall and Devon, before he drives further, into Somerset, South Wales and up to the North of England.

The creator of the Man Engine, Will Coleman of Golden Tree Productions, said: “Our big boy is setting off in the footsteps of the Cousin Jacks, but he needs to say a proper farewell to Cornwall, and our friends just over the Tamar in Tavistock, before he goes onto Radstock in Somerset on the first UK leg of the epic global tour that we hope one day to achieve.”

The Man Engine crawls at 4m high & ‘transforms’ to stand at 11.2m high, powered by Volvo’s brand new L220H wheeledloader. Five mining related venues across Cornwall, Devon and Somerset will each host two separate events; a daytime family-friendly fun day and an ‘after dark’ edgy extravaganza.

Will Coleman explained the difference between the new daytime and night-time events which will take place at each of the Cornish, Devon and Somerset venues saying: “Our ‘Afternooner’ will give families and Big Kids the chance to really get to know their favourite giant miner: there will be an industrialscale feast of fun and frolics. The ‘Afterdarker’ promises an edgier explosive experience including white-hot pyrotechnics - sparks will fly! Suffice to say, we are cranking up the experience that held everyone spellbound last year and can’t wait for people across Wales and England to meet him for the first time.”

Will also announced an affordable Earlybird Ticket scheme for the Somerset events saying: “Last year 150,000

residents and visitors from across Cornwall and West Devon, managed to see the Man Engine. It all went pretty bonkers and, due to the colossal demand and excitement, we had to encourage people not to come to certain events that we were expecting to be really busy and some people even got turned away!”

Will continues: “So this year, we want to make sure that everyone who is keen to see the Man Engine can definitely know that they will get to see him at a certain location, at a certain time. So, we are going to sell 3,000 super cheap tickets for each event. These Earlybird Tickets will be available at just £5 per person (adult or child) for just five weeks, starting from … now! We really hope people will want to come out and support The Man Engine again. Perhaps buying tickets for

friends and family for Christmas presents. There’s a lot extra on offer this time around and where else can you get such a sight and experience for just FIVE POUNDS?” Earlybird tickets are available from manenginetickets.com (plus an additional £1 booking fee). The ticket price will then increase up to £10/£12/£15 until the events themselves next year.

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OUT & ABOUT

BBC Children in Need History: Ever wondered how Pudsey got his name?

The BBC's first ever broadcast appeal for children was a five-minute radio broadcast on Christmas Day in 1927. The response was phenomenal and it raised £1,143 18s 3d which was split between 4 prominent children's charities.

The first televised appeal was the 1955 'Children's Hour Christmas Appeal', presented

by Sooty and Harry Corbett.

The Christmas Day Appeals continued on TV and radio right up until 1979, raising a total of £625,836.

The presenters included Terry Hall, Eamonn Andrews, Leslie Crowther, Michael Aspel and the rising star of the Radio 2 Breakfast Show - Terry Wogan - who made his debut appearance in 1978.

In 1980 the appeal was broadcast on BBC One in a new telethon format, hosted

by Terry with Sue Lawley and Esther Rantzen. The telethon

was the brainchild of Mark Patterson, who went on to be the Executive Producer for nine years. It captured the public's imagination to such an extent that the donations increased dramatically and broke the million mark for the very first time.

Terry Wogan remained the the telethon's mainstay until 2014, and was joined by a diverse line-up over the years that included Joanna Lumley, Sue Cook, John Craven, Andi Peters, Gaby Roslin, Natasha Kaplinsky, Tess Daly and Fearne Cotton.

Pudsey Bear Pudsey Bear made his television debut in 1985 when Terry introduced the new, brown cuddly mascot to the audience.

He was designed by Joanna Ball, a BBC graphics designer, who named him after the West Yorkshire town where she was born. He proved very popular and returned as BBC

Children in Need's official logo the following year with his design amended to that of a yellow bear with a red spotted bandage.

In the two decades which have followed, Pudsey has received letters, drawings and e-mails from youngsters all over the UK and been photographed with more celebrities than he can remember.

Apart from a party hat worn in 2004 to celebrate the telethon's silver jubilee, Pudsey has remained very much the same. But a 2007 revamp gave Pudsey a fresh new look and brighter colours in time for the 28th annual BBC Children in Need Appeal.

The Appeal today So far over £800 million has been raised. To find out how you can help in this year’s Appeal on 17th November, visit www.bbcchildreninneed.co.uk

Winter days are filled with light and merriment at National Trust properties across South Somerset This year Montacute House and garden will transform into a glittering beacon on the Somerset landscape.

Each Saturday and Sunday from December 2nd until 31st the house and garden will be illuminated in atmospheric colours and tones, and the house will be glowing – lit like a lantern from within. After all, on wintry nights there is nothing more heartening than a lantern of light gleaming through the darkness. There will also be seasonal hot food on offer in the Café and the shop will be open to find that perfect gift.

Wrap up warm and enjoy a wonderful winter experience with the National Trust at Montacute House.

Jolly mid-winter merriment will be in abundance at Barrington, and December is a special time to visit the court house; with wonderful decorations adorning the rooms and a chance to have

fun and play traditional games.

The rooms are Presented with a flavour of how the Lyle family would have enjoyed Christmas traditions in the 1920’s as well as lots of musical entertainment and an opportunity to share your own Christmas time memories with us in the memory room. Friday to Sunday 1st until 23rd December.

Father Christmas will be tucked away in his intriguing and atmospheric study, with a gift to take home after your visit (Saturdays and Sundays only).

Booking is essential (£9/child), please see website for details.

Normal admission prices apply unless otherwise stated.

A big thank you and well done to See a Lantern of Light at Montacute this Christmas Sat & Sun, 2 - 31 Dec (excluding 24 Dec), 3 7pm (house 4 - 6.30pm)

By visiting Montacute you are Brighten your winter weekends See a Montacute Lantern of Light atpart in looking after playing your by seeing House and one of the nation’s special places.

Garden as a lantern of light in the Somerset landscape.

Montacute this Christmas There will also be seasonal hot The timed ticketing system on a food on offer in the café and the basis(excluding means Satfirst &come Sun,first 2 served - 31 Dec 24 Dec), shop will be open to find that entry into the house will be given perfect Christmas gift.

3-7pm (house 4 - 6.30pm) at 15 minute intervals, once in enjoy at your leisure and at no

Wrap up warm and enjoy a

winter experience.

Brighten your wintercost. weekends by seeing Montacute Therewonderful additional will also be seasonal hot food on offer in the House and Garden as a lantern of light in the café and the shop will be open to find that perfect Somerset landscape. The garden and house will be Christmas gift. Wrap up warm and enjoy a wonderful nationaltrust.org.uk/montacute-house illuminated in vibrant colours and will make for a winter experience. trulyNormal memorable winter experience. admission prices apply unless otherwise stated.

Normal admission prices apply.

National Trust Members need to present their membership card on arrival.

Due to the fragility of the house we are operating a Photography by: ©National Trust Images/Dave Thorpe/Rob Stothard. ©National Trust 2017. timed ticketing system on a first come first served For more information visit: is an independent registered number 205846. basis.National The timedTrust system means entry into the house charity, nationaltrust.org.uk/montacute-house will be given at 15 minute intervals, once in enjoy at your leisure and at no additional cost. By visiting follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit usPhotography at www.parenttalk.org.uk by: ©National Trust Images/Dave Thorpe/Rob Stothard. Design: timjulierdesign.co.uk Montacute you are playing your part in looking after Printed on 100% recycled paper. Please recycle this leaflet after use. ©National Trust 2017. one of the nation’s special places.

National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846.

Find some festive merriment at Barrington Court this Christmas Find some festive merriment at

Jolly Midwinter Merriment Yuletide Cabin Barrington Court this Christmas Fri-Sun, 1-23 Dec, Before you go, call in at our

10.30am-3pm yuletide cabin to select a Yuletide Cabin December is a special time locally-grown Fri – Sun, 1 – 23 Dec, 10.30am-3pm Before you go, call in at ourChristmas yuletide cabin tree to December is a special time to visit the court select a locally-grown Christmas tree and to visit the court house, with and fabulous decorations. house, with wonderful decorations adorning fabulous decorations. You’ll find mince pies, decorations adorning You’ll find mince thewonderful rooms, and a chance to linger and soak up mulled cider and hot drinks herepies, too. mulled thethe festive atmosphere you were rooms, andasathough chance to at cider and hot drinks here too. home. There’ll be traditional games to play and Father Christmas linger and soak up the festive Father Christmas gramophone records to listen to, and you can Sat & Sun only, 2 – 23 Dec, 11am-3pm share your own Christmastime memories with A special atmosphere.

Satopportunity & Sun only, 2Father – 23 Dec, to meet us in our memory room. There’ll also be a Christmas in his intriguing and atmospheric 11am-3pm £9. variety of musicians performing each weekend, Jolly Midwinter Merriment

for a Spotacular effort to raise money for BBC Children in Need 2017

study, with a gift to take home after your visit. including dulcimer and handbell players, nationaltrust.org.uk/barrington-court Booking essential, please see website for woodwind and glorious choirs.unless otherwise from 30 Oct. £9 details stated.

Normal groups admission prices apply

National Trust Members need to present their membership card on arrival.

Having fun is hungry work, but our restaurant nationaltrust.org.uk/barrington-court Photography by: ©National Trust Images/Dave Thorpe/Rob Stothard. ©National Trust 2017. team has a selection of seasonal treats to National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. tempt you. Why not try a festive homemade Normal admission prices apply unless tea (Fri – Sun; booking essential, please see otherwise stated. National Trust Members website for details) or a delicious roast turkey Parent Talk November need to present their membership card on 2017 7 lunch (Sun only; booking not needed). arrival.

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

Book Bag

visit www.pare

Can you spot 7 differences between our owl pictures?

Visit www.parenttalk.org.uk to see if you have spotted them all!

The all-new Simbrix kits are a parent’s dream and a children’s Christmas wish. Suitable for ages 6+, these award-winning, multi-coloured simulated bricks connect and hold together bit by bit, forming an inspirational array of designs, which can be easily made and re-made.

From wonderful wildlife to crazy celebrity creations, there’s no limit to the imagination when you’re young at heart!

Teaching focus and using fine motor skills to create, there is no need for tweezers, peg board, ironing or gluing. Simbrix is simple, educational and therapeutic and works for anyone from fun kids to professional artists.

WIN The brightly packaged kits lift Simbrix to new heights with a handy transparent Play Tray box, multi-coloured brix, new colours, design inspiration cards, Simbrix stickers and an exclusive inventor postcard in each kit.

There are 20 different colours available which means the options are endless for designs and characters that can be made.

Parent Talk have 1 of each kit 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 15 November 2017.

How many different colours are available? a 20 b 27 c 7 For further details visit www.simbrix.com

Try our little musical quiz crossword to get you set up for some festive singing next month!

Check your answers and enter our competitions www.parenttalk.org.uk

WIN

Book Bag NEWS Get set for Christmas 26th November - Stir up Sunday The history of stir-up Sunday Stir-up Sunday, always the last Sunday before Advent, takes its name from a prayer said in the Anglican church, which begins: ‘Stir up, we beseech thee, O Lord...’ The words remind churchgoers to start stirring up their plum pudding so it has time to mature before Christmas Day.

Did you hea r th Never mind, e joke about the roof? it’s over you r head!

What kind o opens a ban f key ana A monkey! ?

Googly Eyes is the hilarious drawing game involving crazy, googly glasses that challenge your vision and leave you googling for more.

A tradition the whole family can get involved with, the idea is that everyone should get a turn to mix, and make a wish while they do it. Some households put coins in the mix, with the finder promised wealth, health and happiness for the coming year.

When do stop at greeyou n an go at red? d When you’re eating a watermelon!

What washe s up small beach on very e Microwaves!s?

How do you fi You follow thnd a Princess? e foot Prince

What music are balloons scared Pop music.

What bow c an’t be tied?

A rainbow!

of?

Simply put on the zany, vision-altering Googly Eye glasses and start to draw whilst the team tries to guess what you’re drawing – and on a time limit!

Parent Talk have 4 games to give away.

For your chance to win, rearrange the words below and visit www.parenttalk.org.uk to enter by the closing date of 15 November 2017.

OGOGYL SYEE

What happened in

NOVEMBER? 5th November 1605: Gunpowder Plot; Catholics try to blow up English Parliament.

Plot uncovered and leader Guy Fawkes hanged

18th November 1987: 31 die in a fire at King's Cross, one of London's busiest underground stations

7th November 1867: Birth of Marie Curie, Polish-born physicist and chemist, Nobel prize winner and one of the most famous scientists of her time

19th November 1994: First National Lottery draw in England

14th November 1666: Samuel Pepys reports on first blood transfusion (between dogs) 14th November 1922: The BBC begins a daily broadcast service 15th November 1708: Birth of William Pitt ‘the Elder’, Prime Minister 1766-68

20th November 1947: Princess Elizabeth marries Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten at Westminster Abbey, London 22nd November 1963: US President JOHN F. KENNEDY assassinated 30th November 1874: Birth of Winston Churchill, British Prime Minister during World War II

Enter our competitions www.parenttalk.org.uk

7

10 Parent Talk December 2012

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 & Taunton College Childcare Centre is Ofsted rated Outstanding and open to the general public and children of students, from four months to five years of age. 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 E: childcare@bridgwater.ac.uk www.bridgwaterchildcare.co.uk First Steps Day Nursery School (all year from 8am-6pm). For children from 3 months to 5 years. Offering a caring, educational and safe environment for your child. All fully qualified staff.

T: Elaine Garland 01749 346733 E: fsdaynursery@btconnect.com

NURSERY

directory

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 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 each child gets the individual attention they need.

Contact Cleo Wilson for more information.

T: 07936 555 676 www.littlebootsdaynursery.co.uk

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 child-led curriculum, small class sizes and excellent facilities, including our on-site Forest School and indoor swimming pool. Over 20 free after-school activities as well as an Early Birds and Late Club, and a daily toddler group during term time for ages 1-2½.

To arrange a visit please contact: Hannah Cox in Admissions on 01458 837524 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 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

Smartees Day Care Nursery Ltd offers professional and flexible childcare for working families, with 2 conveniently located nurseries close to Yeovil 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, 7.30am- 5.45pm.

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 The Bush Nursery, Pilton. Set in an idyllic location with extensive grounds, we provide bespoke care to

children from 1-5 years. With no more than 12 children per session, children have truly individual care.

Open 8-6 all year round.

Vivien Goode 01749 890327 The Folly Nursery and Pre-School stands on the edge of the village of Ilton in the beautiful South Somerset countryside and caters for children ranging in age from very young babies, right up to primary school age and during school holidays until age 8.

All Folly children can stay for anything from 2 sessions a week to 5 full days, with cooked nursery meals if you wish.

We are open from 7.45am until 6.00pm and will accept the extended government funding either for term time only or over 51 weeks a year.

01460 55488 www.follynursery.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 Rachel Debenham 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 Marian Bassindale for more details 01823 668700 prep@wellington-school.org.uk

To book our Nursery Directory, please call 01458 250461

Speed Down Save Lives this Road Safety Week to protect your loved ones Driving is unpredictable and if something unexpected happens on the road ahead – such as a child stepping out from between parked cars – it is a driver’s speed that will determine whether they can stop in time and, if they can’t stop, how hard they will hit. That is why we are encouraging everyone to Speed Down Save Lives for Road Safety Week 2017 (20-26 November).

Newer vehicles are more 10 Parent Talk November 2017

powerful than ever before and reach high speeds quickly.

Driving fast is glamorised and often encouraged by programmes and adverts that worship the cult of the car. We all live busy lives and there is a temptation to speed up in the hope of saving time, where in fact we could be costing lives.

Many families have concerns about road safety, especially when it comes to walking and cycling. As a parent, these understandable road safety

fears are likely to change as your child gets older. Road crashes are the biggest cause of death among 5-25 yearolds. And, as a charity that supports UK bereaved and seriously injured road crash victims, Brake is keen to work with parents to prevent these devastating crashes from happening in the first place.

We’ve produced lots of free tools and resources to be used during the week – from activity sheets to help engage

children to a campaign toolkit to promote safer roads in your community. We also have giant hands, web banners and posters so you can share your support in-house and online. Simply visit www. roadsafetyweek.org.uk to register for a free action pack.

Brake supports a vision zero approach, which places the

emphasis on systems to save lives and the planet, such as 20mph limits in towns and segregated routes for walkers and cyclists. We know it is challenging to change road users’ behaviour and humans make mistakes and some knowingly take risks. However, the deaths and injuries are happening right now, with

five people dying on UK roads every day and 61 being seriously injured. Everyone can do their bit today by spreading awareness of the vital importance of the Pledge rules: slow down; never drink or take drugs or use a mobile when driving; always wear a seat belt; get eyesight tested; and minimise driving.

And if you have children aged 2-7, why not run a special Beep Beep! Day on Wednesday 22 November or get their nursery, playgroup, childminder or infant school to run one. Brake provides free resources. More information is at www.brake.org.uk/beepbeepday or email beepbeep@brake.org.uk.

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

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Scholarships at King's Schools King’s awards a number of scholarships to pupils from primary, secondary and preparatory schools at age 11, 13 and 16 years.

Our scholarships recognise excellence and potential in academic ability, as well as in music, sport, art, drama, and design technology.

We offer scholarships to attract high performing pupils who can inspire their fellow pupils. There is great honour in being a scholar: the school offers a programme of tailor-made support and encouragement and there is often a financial benefit in the form of a reduced fee.

Talented pupils will thrive in our small classes, and will benefit from fantastic facilities, great opportunities and worldclass expertise in GCSE and A level subjects.

We are currently offering scholarships to pupils who would like to join King’s in Year 7 next September (2018).

There is an exciting 11+ Admissions Programme that your child can be a part of – this will include a series of

SCHOLARSHIPS

workshops and events to help stretch and enhance learning.

Our Tomato Challenge – a STEM Enrichment Workshop – is set to be smashing!

If your child is in Year 6 and

has the sort of potential we are looking for, please contact Kate Rippin on 01823 328204 or admissions@kings-taunton. co.uk to discuss what King’s has to offer you.

Brush up on your dental knowledge!

When it comes to teaching children how to look after their teeth, as parents, we may think we know what we’re talking about. We’ve been taking care of our own teeth for years so surely we can just lead by example.

But is there more to it than we might think? Are we aware of the bad habits we might have picked up over the years or the old wives’ tales we’ve bought into? If you think about it, when was the last time you actually sought proper guidance on how to take care of your own teeth – never mind your children’s? It’s easy to pick up on what we’ve been told by friends and family without actually questioning whether that advice, although well intended, might not be true!

So, to debunk some of the most common misconceptions, Eddie Coyle, Clinical Director at Bupa Dental Care shares his top tips: ● Myth: You only need to take your kids to the dentist once they start losing their baby teeth Fact: Many parents believe that it’s not necessary to take their children to the dentist before they start losing their baby teeth – this is not true. Taking your child to the dentist from

an early age, around the age of one when their baby teeth start to appear, reduces the risk of invasive procedures as dental problems can be easily spotted and treated early. ● Myth: It doesn’t matter how you brush your teeth, so long as you do it at least twice a day Fact: Most people wrongly assume that if you brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time, your teeth will be fine. However, the way that you brush your teeth, and the way children are taught to do so, is hugely important.

For the surface that faces lips and cheeks, tilt the brush at a 45 degree angle against the gumline and sweep the brush away from the gum. For the inside and chewing surfaces, use gentle short strokes. Finally, brush your tongue to remove all the bacteria. ● Myth: Always use mouthwash after brushing Fact: Although mouthwash is widely associated with good dental hygiene, the reality is it mainly just provides a quick burst of minty freshness and not much else! The components of most mouthwashes actually wash away any fluoride in toothpaste – which is essential for the development of a child’s teeth. Unless recommended mouthwash for medical

reasons by a dentist, a good fluoride toothpaste, brushing, flossing and regular trips to the hygienist will keep your children’s teeth healthy. ● Myth: Sugary treats are fine if your child brushes their teeth straight after Fact: A lot of my patients believe that brushing teeth straight after eating helps remove traces of sugar and food. While this can help remove some sugar, brushing too soon after eating can risk wearing away enamel. It’s best to wait at least an hour after eating before letting your child brush their teeth as this gives the saliva the time it needs to neutralise acids in the mouth caused by sugar. ● Myth: Teeth are made of the same material as hair and nails Fact: Quite a lot of children – and adults – I’ve spoken to over the years think that teeth, nails and hair are all made of the same material. This is incorrect.

While all three contain keratin, the amount of keratin contained within the enamel of our teeth is significantly lower than the keratin in our nails and hair. So while hair and nails might continually grow, the same is not the case for teeth.

We only get one set as adults, so looking after them from a young age is important.

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

11+ Scholarships: Academic, Music and Sport Open to Primary and Prep School pupils

Please contact our Director of Admissions, Kate Rippin: 01823 328204.

For further information on scholarships please visit our website www.kingshalltaunton.co.uk A Woodard School

Parent Talk November 2017 11

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

The importance of sleep and how to improve your sleep

By Dr Riccardo Di Cuffa, Director and GP at Your Doctor www.your-doctor.co.uk

Sleep is crucial in maintaining your physical and mental health, and supports many facets of healthy brain function. Whilst there is often an emphasis on the importance of sleep in children and adolescents as it helps support growth and development, good sleep is important for all of us for the following reasons:● Quality of sleep: The average person needs around seven to nine hours of good

quality sleep a night. One or two nights of poor sleep won’t harm you, but if it goes on for weeks, there can be serious side effects such as difficulty in concentrating, mood swings and risk of an accident or injury if you are too tired to drive or look after yourself properly. ● Sleep wards off diseases: Research has shown that getting good sleep can help in the fight against diseases such as heart disease, obesity, cancer

and diabetes. Having less than five hours of quality sleep a night over a long period of time can seriously increase risk of disease. Sleep deprivation can cause high blood pressure and possibly cause increased inflammatory processes which could lead to heart disease for example. ● Increased sex drive and fertility: It’s not only mental and physical health which can be improved by sleep, but also sexual health. Those who do not get enough sleep generally have less libido than those who do. Males who suffer from Sleep Apnoea (lack of sleep caused by periods of breathing cessation) often have lower testosterone levels than those who don’t.

For women, regular lack of sleep reduces the secretion of reproductive hormones, meaning they may be less likely to fall pregnant. ● Mental Health: If you think about a time when you were tired, you may find you were irritable and moody due to lack of sleep. Imagine this going on for a prolonged period. A

Is the family dinner extinct?

Brits admit they sit in silence and would rather be on their phones than eat together New research reveals that in Britain today, families are more likely to be found texting or emailing at the dinner table than discussing their day.

Historically, the evening meal was a bustling time as families sat down together to talk about their day at school or work. But now, the average family will sit down to just four meals a week together – with one of those spent in complete silence as everyone sits on their phones or tablets.

Shockingly, the study by Old El Paso, also revealed one in ten even admitted to sitting in silence for four meals a week, with almost a quarter saying technology is to blame for the lack of conversation. More than half (56%) of parents also said they are often left at the table alone as the kids rush off as soon as they finish their food.

Old El Paso’s #MakeItYours campaign aims to help tackle the problems modern families face when trying to spend meaningful time together – especially round the table.

The research suggests Mums have a list of ‘go-to rules’ they try and implement for success at dinner time including a ban on gadgets, no toys at the table and no arguing. Other rules mums swear by include encouraging children to try a bite of everything, no rude conversation, getting everyone involved in preparing the food and making ‘sharable 12 Parent Talk November 2017

and interactive’ dishes to help create more meaningful mealtimes. New guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) further supports mums' approach when it comes to fussy eaters especially, and looks to parents to “…allow messy play and encourage the child to feel the texture of the food.”

The study of 2,000 parents found eight in ten believe it’s important to sit and eat dinner together as a family, with over a third (32%) saying they had sit down family dinners every night of the week when they were growing up. But one in ten admit that as parents themselves, with their own family, they never gather at the dinner table for their evening meal and even those who do, spend just 18 minutes around the table. One in twenty even admitted they are lucky to last five minutes before everyone goes off to do their own thing.

Eighteen per cent blame the TV while more than a tenth say their quality time at the table is affected by social media.

Lindsay Hill, Marketing Manager, Old El Paso Northern Europe says; “With our increasingly busy lifestyles and the effects of technology, many families are now finding it harder to have meaningful meal times together. This is despite many agreeing it can be an ideal opportunity to sit down and catch up. Taking the

time out of our busy schedules and putting down the tech can be difficult so Old El Paso wants to help families reclaim meal times, with fun, delicious and sharable food like our Stand ‘N’ Stuff ™ Mini Soft Tortillas – perfect for little hands. Get messy and break the rules and make dinner yours again!”

Psychologist and Behavioural Expert Emma Kenny says; “Modern life is hectic and it is very easy to let family meals go on the back burner. The truth is, eating together is critical to a harmonious and connected family life, and is often the only time that everyone gets a chance to sit down to catch up with other family members all in one place. Making sure that mealtimes are a technology free zone is critical to family cohesion and means that every family member can be fully present whilst enjoying a nutritious and delicious shared meal.”

The study also found the average family faces two arguments during an evening meal, with 62% further admitting they will argue every night of the week, and suffer two meals a week where children complain about what they have to eat. Sixty-eight per cent of parents admit they need to make more effort to sit together as a family at the dinner table, with eight in ten believing meal times are an ideal opportunity to spend time together.

constant lack of sleep can lead to mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Surveys conducted on those with depression discovered that many sufferers often had less than six hours sleep per night. ● Weight Management: Having less than seven hours sleep a day has been linked to weight gain, higher risk of obesity and weight disorders.

Sleep deprivation causes a drop in the levels of leptin - a chemical in the body which makes you feel fuller, and increases ghrelin - a chemical which increases hunger meaning you are more likely to overeat when you have a lack of sleep.

How to improve your sleep Consistency is key: Help to regulate your circadian rhythms (also known as the body clock) by sticking to a sleep schedule which allows for at least eight hours. You should try and stick to this even on weekends to make your body adjust to getting the same amount of sleep. Separate activity time ●

from sleep time and avoid bright lights and screens before bed. Waking up to sunlight in the morning can improve circadian rhythms. Try keeping a sleep diary to see if there are any obvious problematic patterns. ● See a professional: If your sleep deprivation is extremely bad and affecting your daily life, be sure to see your GP for help and advice on the situation.

They might provide sleeping tablets for short periods of sleeplessness or stress. They may investigate the possibility of sleep apnoea or look at other reasons for your insomnia. ● Avoid heavy meals, alcohol and cigarettes: All of these things can affect your sleep pattern. Eating big meals, especially if they’re spicy, can cause indigestion which may cause discomfort when trying to get to sleep. Try not to eat a large meal for at least three to four hours before going to bed.

If you are hungry, the optimum time to have a light snack is 45 minutes before bedtime but it is often best to avoid snacks

prior to bed if possible. Caffeine and nicotine stimulate the body, meaning they take hours to wear off. Although alcohol can make you feel tired at first, it can disrupt your sleep later in the night as it is a stimulant as well. ● Sleeping Environment: Ensure your bedroom is the right temperature and free from noise so that your sleep is not disturbed. If you have a partner who snores, you may want to try sleep remedies such as earplugs to block out the noise. Using ‘white noise’ apps or machines produce soothing noises which may help you sleep if you are struggling or listen to mindfulness sources or meditations. ● Bedding: Make sure that your pillows and mattress are comfortable. It is recommended that you change your mattress every eight years or so. Make sure to wash your bedding regularly otherwise unwashed bedding can cause skin conditions and allergens which could cause sleeping difficulty and have other side effects.

Top 5 things that stop us from having meaningful mealtimes 1. Tech - phones and gadgets 2. TV 3. Hectic social schedules 4. After school activities 5. Parents long working hours Top ten discussions at the dinner table 1. What everyone has done that day 2. How the children are doing at school 3. Family news 4. What everyone wants to do at the weekend 5. What homework looks like 6. Who their best friends are 7. What they want to be when they grow up 8. Sports and activities they take part in 9. Advice they want from the parents 10. What they have learnt about the world Top 20 rules mums live by at the dinner table: 1. No gadgets 2. Give everyone a chance to chat about their day 3. No phone calls/text messages or emails during mealtimes 4. No TV during the meal 5. No toys at the table 6. Ask your children questions to encourage conversation 7. No talking with your mouthful 8. No arguments 9. Let the whole family get involved in food preparation 10. Children should help lay the table and clear up after a meal 11. Everyone has to stay at the table until the last person has finished eating 12. Make dishes sharable and interactive 13. No rude or inappropriate conversation 14. Be more inventive with cooking 15. Try at least one bite of everything 16. Plan a weekly menu so everyone knows what to expect 17. Everyone sits in the same seats each mealtime to avoid rows 18. No hats or caps 19. If you don't eat all of your meal, you don't get any pudding 20. No elbows on the table Mexican food is a fun and vibrant way to bring family and friends together, sparking connections around the table. Sharing an Old El Paso meal gets parents and kids talking like never before. Eating with your hands, passing things around and generally breaking all the rules means everyone relaxes, banter is sparked and conversations can go anywhere.

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EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Festive fun on the way at Queen's College Pre-Prep As this term progresses we start to think about Christmas which is just around the corner.

The Pre-Prep children enjoy a variety of fun and engaging activities which develop their understanding of the Christian festival and, as you would imagine, there is much excitement in the run-up to the festive period.

Throughout the term, we offer a wealth of opportunities to challenge, expand and develop every child’s creative side. As Christmas approaches, the children employ their artistic talents in planning and making a variety of Christmas creations, including cards and gifts for their loved ones.

We would be delighted to welcome those families whose children will be starting school in September 2018, to come along and experience a morning in Queen’s College Reception on Friday, December 8th.

As well as taking part in a Christmas Craft session between 9.30-10.30am, parents will be able to meet with Miss Sam

Horner, Head of Pre-Prep, and other staff members to look around the school, learn more about early learning at Queen’s College and the wonderful opportunities and facilities available to our younger children.

Christmas refreshments will also be available. Please book your place by contacting 01823 278928 or junioradmissions@ queenscollege.org.uk Rehearsals for our Nativity musical ‘Hey Ewe!’ are in full swing and the children’s singing and acting skills, as always, never cease to amaze us. Our Nativity is full of humour and has a medley of infectious songs

told from the perspective of a curious sheep! Our Nativity contributes to the development of our pupils’ communication, creative and performance skills and boosts confidence, builds self-esteem and helps overcome shyness. Every pupil from Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 knows that they are a valued member and their joy as they perform is obvious to see.

The term culminates in our wonderful Christmas Carol Concert which brings together the Pre-Prep department and Junior School for a traditional concert of hymns and readings in the Queen’s Hall.

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All round excellence at Wellington School 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 the 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 exam results. The performing arts go from strength to strength.

There are workshops, creative performances and technical opportunities and 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 often 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.

There is a vibrant and active Outdoor Education programme, which includes Ten Tors, CCF (Army, Navy and Air Force),

Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, expeditions, camping, ski trips, trekking, kayaking, climbing, canoeing and a wide range of international trips including the Atlas Mountains in Morocco, Nepal, Greenland, and a conservation project in Domenica.

We nurture and teach pupils from 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

To find out more about our Year 7 Entrance Exams, please call 01823 668803 or email admissions@wellington-school.org.uk

Parent Talk November 2017 13

e o

BOOK REVIEW

Editor’s choice Magical Ice Palace

By Suzanne Smith and Lindsay Taylor Illustrated by Marnie Maurri Published by Simon & Schuster Doodle Girl uses her magic pencil to create adventures by transforming doodles into fantastical lands, full of amazing animals! On their latest outing, Doodle Girl and her friends find a curly, curvy shape. What is it supposed to be? Whilst trying to work it out, they find a sad, lonely mammoth high up on a mountain. What’s he doing there? Will Doodle Girl be able to help him? And what is the curly curvy shape going to be?

Supertato: Evil Pea Rules!

By Sue Hendra and Paul Linnet Published by Simon and Schuster It’s all very well being a superhero and saving the day…but what if there was no one there to cause the chaos?

To provide these heroes with their chances to shine? Would we even need superheroes?

Fortunately, this isn’t something we will have to worry about any time soon.

The Evil Pea is BACK! And this time he has his biggest, most dastardly plan yet to take over the supermarket….

The Twelve Dogs of Christmas

By Alison Ritchie and Marisa Morea Published by Simon and Schuster A riotous, rhyming countdown to Christmas with adorable little dogs leaping from every page!

The big day has almost arrived and one little puppy is very excited about his first EVER Christmas. But with three drooling Dalmatians, six sausage-snaffling Scotties and every dog in town helping out, the festive season is a shambles! Will everything be ready in time for Christmas Day?

Witch for a Week

By Kaye Umansky, illustrated by Ashley King Published by Simon and Schuster When Elsie Pickles offers to house-sit the mysterious home of local witch Magenta Sharp, she has no idea what she’s getting herself into. Left with a talking raven and a scruffy dog for company, a magical tower that has a mind of its own and a book of instruction called ‘Everything You Need to Know’, what could possibly go wrong?

With an assortment of weird and wonderful neighbours banging at the door and a box of volatile magical ingredients that must be used immediately, Elsie finds out that looking after Magenta’s home might not be as easy as she first thought…does she have what it takes to be a witch for a week or will it all end in a magical disaster?

14 Parent Talk November 2017

His Royal Tinyness

By Sally Lloyd-Jones, illustrated by David Roberts Published by Walker Books Marianna, the most beautiful, ever so kindest princess, lived happily with her mum, dad and gerbil. Happy, that is, until the dark, dark day the new baby arrived; named grandly His Royal Highness King Baby.

But King Baby is so smelly.

He’s so noisy. And all the talk in the Land is about him – non-stop. All the time! Has there ever been such a time of wicked rule?

How to Bewitch a Wolf

By Abie Longstaff Published by Scholastic Charlie is finally testing her powers as a witch. But when new boy Zack joins the school, everything goes wrong. He seems perfect – but Charlie is sure there’s more to him than meets the eye…

The Wolf, The Duck & The Mouse

By Mac Barnett, illustrated by Jon Klassen Published by Walker Books When a woeful mouse is swallowed up by a wolf, he quickly learns he is not alone: a duck has already set up digs and, boy, has that duck got it figured out! Turns out it’s pretty nice inside the belly of the beast – there’s delicious food, elegant table settings and, best of all, dancing. And there’s something more: no more fear of being eaten by a wolf!

Life’s not so bad, considering the alternatives. That is, until a hunter shows up…

Jack Beechwhistle: Rise of the Hairy Horror

By Kes Gray, illustrated by Garry Parsons Published by Penguin Random House The second brilliant book in the Jack Beechwhistle series sees the return of Daisy’s classroom nemesis in a hilarious and witty tale of a young boy’s, or should that be undercover agent extraordinaire’s, mission to save the world.

The world’s a dangerous place.

Luckily, Jack Beechwhistle is around to protect it. He might look like an ordinary boy, but really he’s a junior secret agent. He’s tackled all sorts of missions – exploding conkers, zombie sweet-shop owners, and maneating giant slugs – with a bit of help from his best friends and sidekicks, Colin and Harry (as long as it’s not past their bedtime).

A Werewolf named Oliver James

By Nicholas John Frith Published by Scholastic On his way home one moonlit night, a strange thing happens to Oliver James: he unexpectedly turns into a werewolf! Suddenly, he can run faster than an express train. He can leap higher than tall buildings. He’s stronger than a lion! There’s only one problem: what on earth will his parents say when he gets home?

Boogie Bear

By David Walliams, illustrated by Tony Ross Published by Harper Collins ‘Boogie Bear’ is the tale of a polar bear who finds herself unexpectedly drifting far from home…and into some rather unfriendly company! This is an outrageously funny story that embraces difference and celebrates friendship.

I Went to See Santa

By Paul Howard Published by Bloomsbury A brilliantly funny book based on the much loved memory game ‘I went to the shop’, but with a seasonal twist. A new take on an old favourite, children will love this laughout loud, test your memory story, with reindeer, penguins, a gingerbread tree and much, much more!

Safari Pug

By Laura James, illustrated by Eglantine Ceulemans Published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books When Pug and Lady Miranda have a scary run-in with a lion one night (it might be hiding under the bed), Lady M decides Pug needs to face his fears and go on safari. Pug doesn’t want to meet a lion but Lady Miranda insists. So they’ve packed a picnic and now they’re off on a Safari Adventure but …what if wild animals like PUGS for lunch?

Hetty Feather’s Christmas

By Jacqueline Wilson Published by Penguin Random House This is a Christmas treat for the legion of Hetty Feather fans. Set in the period of time between the first and second Hetty Feather books, this story sees Hetty aged 12 and still living in the Foundling Hospital. Just as it looks as though Hetty will be spending her Christmas being punished by Matron Bottomly, a dear friend arrives to whisk her away for a Christmas unlike any other.

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CLASSIFIED Crush Catastrophe

By Rachel Rene Russell Published by Simon & Schuster In Nikki Maxwell’s newest diary, it’s the countdown to the end of the school year, and Nikki’s juggling some big questions about how she’ll spend her summer. She’s also facing an unexpected crush catastrophe – there’s a new boy interested in Nikki, but the last thing she wants to do is accidentally hurt Brandon! It all comes down to a big decision Nikki has to make, and drama like she’s never faced before!

80

By Roger McGough Published by Puffin ‘80’ sees eighty favourite poems from one of the nation’s bestloved poets, Roger McGough, brought together for the first time in a hugely enjoyable new volume.

Sometimes funny, sometimes sad, always inventive and often unexpected, the enormous variety of poems will never cease to amaze and delight children of all ages. ‘80’ is a wonderful collection, truly with something for everyone, to be enjoyed again and again, read together or independently, at home or in a classroom.

Biographic Churchill

By Richard Wiles Published by Ammonite Press Biographic Churchill presents the finest hours of his life and work, with an array of irresistible facts and figures converted into infographics to reveal the man behind the politics.

Biographic Rembrandt

By Sophie Collins Published by Ammonite Press Biographic: Rembrandt looks at the mid-17th century Dutch Republic into which Rembrandt was born and how he lived his life; what it was like to be an apprentice; what the art market was like; what materials were available to him; and how he was an artist born into the right time and right place to realise his talents.

Biographic Degas

By Katie Greenwood Published by Ammonite Press Edgar Degas was a great experimental artist who led a privileged life but he was also a private man who shunned fame and was riddled by anxiety and self-doubt.

Biographic: Degas presents an instant impression of his life and work, with an array of irresistible facts and figures converted into infographics to reveal the man AND the artist behind the pictures.

Charity eases childcare worries for South-West parents living with cancer Cancer patients often talk about time standing still at the moment when they receive the devastating news of their diagnosis. But the reality is that while they are battling against the disease - coping with fear and undergoing gruelling treatment - everyday life for those around them must go on.

Parents with young children can struggle the most when it comes to ensuring daily household routines are not thrown into upheaval as a result of their hospital stays and the harsh toll that chemotherapy and radiotherapy takes on their health.

Being unable to work means that money can be tight – luxuries like childcare are out of the question, so parents have no option but to ask family and friends to rally round.

And, of course, no matter how hard parents try to shield their children, it is inevitable that they will pick up on the emotional pressure of living in a home where cancer is an unwanted visitor.

It’s a horrendous situation that Claire Bullock knows only too well. Her sister, Nicola Corry, was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer just days after giving birth and as the treatment began to take its toll, her little boy, Alfie, found himself with a different babysitter almost every other day.

Claire, who lives in Bristol, said,

“Nicola started very aggressive chemotherapy straight away, around three weeks after giving birth.

“A pattern started where Alfie was getting passed from pillar to post and while Nicola’s partner, Brady, had no option but to return to work, there was no financial support available to the family while she was being treated.

“As the months passed and Alfie became a toddler, it was clear that he needed more stability in his life. We were able to put him into a nursery a few days a week and while that gave

from Aberdeen Charitable Foundation will support many more families in the south west of England, bringing a sense of financial and emotional stability to their home.

Parents can apply to the Nicola Corry Support Foundation to help cover shortfalls on childcare, and the charity has also made contributions towards holidays and transport costs for attending hospital appointments. Most grant recipients are referred by health professionals, and the Foundation has also made a significant donation to the Bristol NHS Oncology Unit to

it is one less thing for a parent to worry about when they are fighting for their life.

“I think setting up the fund and subsequently the charity has been good for the family. It’s given us something positive to focus on, knowing that Nicola is continuing to make a difference.”

Claire Drummond, head of charitable giving for Aberdeen Charitable Foundation, said: “Cancer is a truly horrible disease that touches the lives of so many people – not only the patient, but also their family and friends – and it impacts on more than the human body.

What we want to do is take some of that financial pressure away and provide some kind of stability and normality, so it is one less thing for a parent to worry about him the stability he needed, it also meant that Nicola was less stressed. By this time, she was very ill and the treatment had left her so sick and exhausted and her immune system so low that she just wasn’t able to look after a baby full-time.

Sadly, Nicola lost her fight for life in 2005. With some money still in the fund set up for Alfie’s childcare, her family and friends decided they wanted to help other parents in her memory.

The Nicola Corry Support Foundation – now a registered charity run entirely by volunteers – was launched and over the past 11 years it has helped over 300 families.

The latest donation of £3,000

improve facilities for families.

Claire added: “We rely entirely on donations and as the charity is run by volunteers, all of the money goes directly towards helping families that need support. We are incredibly grateful to Aberdeen Charitable Foundation for this grant, which will cover the costs of childcare for one family for four months.

“We would love to be able to help even more families. Some of the applications we receive are absolutely heart-wrenching: I read them and I wonder just how on earth they can cope with it. What we want to do is take some of that financial pressure away and provide some kind of stability and normality, so

“It puts people under extreme financial and emotional pressure and sadly, for many parents, it impacts on their ability to give the kind of care and stability they would want to provide for their child.

“The Nicola Corry Support Foundation is doing incredible work to ensure that all members of a family – not just the patient – get support at a time when they need it most. Not only does the Foundation’s work ensure the child experiences normality in their daily routine, it reduces the level of stress experienced by cancer patients, knowing their child is being well looked after while they are going through treatment.”

For more information about the Aberdeen Charitable Foundation, visit http://aboutus.aberdeen-asset.com/en/aboutus/responsible-business/aberdeen-charitable

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]

MAGIC & BALLOONS Malcolm the Magician Magic and balloon modelling for Schools, Playgroups and Birthday Parties.

Tel: 01823 412750 Mob: 07989 585979 www.malcolm-the-magician.co.uk

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“DAVE” THE MAGICIAN & BALLOONATIC available for birthday parties, playgroups, schools, fetes, promotions etc

in idyllic rural location 5 minutes from A303

Melanie Tuffill 01460 234325/07876481027 melanie@oliveronline.co.uk

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Quirky Textile Gifts www.sarahharmertextileart.com

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DECEMBER issue copy deadline 16th NOVEMBER 2017 For advertising please call 01458 250461 Parent Talk November 2017 15

Be hands on this SAVE LIVES

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REGISTER

Road Safety Week (22-26 November) is a chance to engage the community, launch campaigns, and work towards safer streets – using FREE resources from Brake.

20 to 26

November

Road Safety Week

2017

to get your free online action pack, including downloadable posters, plus ideas on road safety activities and campaigns.

Go to www.roadsafetyweek.org.uk/action-pack

Visit www.roadsafetyweek.org.uk, email roadsafetyweek@brake.org.uk or ring 01484 55 99 09. Tweet using #RoadSafetyWeek Road Safety Week is organised annually by Brake, the road safety charity, with support from our sponsors and the Department for Transport.

Co-ordinated by:

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