Welcome Welcome ..... Spring is here - and with a hop skip and a jump it will be the Easter holidays. This spring issue really does contain lots of information and things to do. Over the Easter weekend you will find Easter Egg Hunts, Kids Go Free offers, and The Needles Park have a voucher for free resident parking permit for the year, see page 25. We are very happy to see many new companies with services for families. The Family Directory is an essential guide for families on the Island. Take a look at ‘Top Things To Do This Spring’ on page 22. Front Cover Star for the spring issue is Mabel and Nell. We had a lovely photo shoot in Shanklin with Mandy from Mandy Meadows Photography. We love all the photos you send in and we will now be looking for the Front Cover Star for the summer issue. If you get chosen, you will be invited to join us for a photo-shoot for the summer issue front cover. If you would like your child or children to be the front cover star(s) for the summer directory please do send your photos to polly@thefamilydirectory.co.uk with all your details by the 6th May. Don’t miss our great competition on page 31 and 32 where you can win The Ultimate Cream Tea with Chessell Pottery Barns or Learn to Skate Course with Planet Ice. You can enter online via our website or post the answers to us. We are also supporting Robin Hill this year with their ‘Garden Show Paint a Gnome Competition’. Robin Hill Garden Show is the 27th - 28th April so find out where you can pick up a gnome to paint on page 30 Our winter feature Try it, Test it, Review it’ was with Zoobookoo.com. To read some of the reviews go to page 39 or you can read them online. This spring Try it, Test it, Review it’ is with Jo Lofthouse ‘Baby Bump Paints’ so if you have a baby on the way and would like your bump painted we would like to hear from you. Join us on Facebook and Twitter - find us at The Family Directory and become a fan. We update with events and news regularly. We love hearing your news and ideas.
www.thefamilydirectory.co.uk Whenever you use the directory, please mention you saw the advert in The Family Directory.
It’s so easy to advertise with The Family Directory Please call or email for a media pack. If you don’t tell families about your school, club, group or services they will not know about you. If you want more business then tell parents what you have to offer. Our advertising costs, starting for as little as £20, really does offer you value for money. Our directories are produced 3 times a year; winter, spring and summer and are distributed island wide.
Have a great Easter!
Take care Polly 01983 872191 email: polly@thefamilydirectory.co.uk
News and Updates
Content
Isle of Wight Foodbank Isle of Wight Foodbank helps to prevent family breakdown, housing loss, crime and mental health problems plus take time to listen and signpost people to further support.” says Hannah King, Project Manager. “It’s not just people on low incomes who are feeling the pinch at the moment, two rounds of benefit changes, increased redundancy, fewer jobs & rising prices are having a real impact on local people.” “Recent figures show that we are feeding in excess of 100 people a week on the Island. These people find themselves in sudden crisis. No £ + No Food = CRISIS.” Isle of Wight foodbank relies on Islanders donating the food by way of supermarket collections & personally at Collection points. February saw such generosity from Sainsbury’s customers. Over one ton of food was donated! The charities’ second hand clothes and furniture shops are in Cowes. Donate by texting FOOD34 £1 to 70070. Nearly New Clothes Sale - March 23rd, Waitrose Food Donation Collection - April 27/28th. Trolley Push - May 9th.
Welcome 1 News and Updates 2 Activities 4 Family Cooking 11 Education 12 Independent Schools 13 Parents and Toddlers 17 Places to Visit and Eat 25 Things to this Spring 22 Competitions 31 / 32 Bumps and Babies 33 Services 34 Try it, Test it, Review it 39 Island Families 40
IOW Foodbank is part of The Trussell Trusts network foodbanks. www.theisleofwightfoodbank.com 01983 292040 find us on Facebook and Twitter.
Lagan’s Foundation needs volunteers on the Isle of Wight Families with a child who has congenital heart defects have a stressful and difficult task ahead. Support at home of any kind is invaluable. Lagan’s Foundation is a registered Charity (No. 1143649) that helps families who have babies and children up to 5 years old, diagnosed with congenital heart defects and/or feeding difficulties. Lagan’s Foundation’s purpose is to provide a free home support service staffed by trained volunteers to support parents in their caring role. It has been recognised through the experience gained whilst caring for Lagan, that coordinating and accessing, care and support services once baby or child returns home from a specialist unit where they have received diagnosis, treatment or care, is a challenging and overwhelming task for many parents. Lagan’s Foundation has been founded with a focus on bridging the gap between NHS Services and Community Care by providing an extra avenue of communication, support and information.Volunteers Needed On The Isle of Wight if you have a few hours free each week please call us for more information see advert page 34.
What’s on this spring page 22
In the Winter issue we had 5 books about Jack and Boo’s Snowy Day to give away. We asked the children to write a review which you can find online. This is what some had to say and their photos.
In Jack and Boo’s snowy day the writer, Philip Bell, has put in lots of description and the pictures are cool because the pictures are cartoon people on normal photos. There are ideas for what to do on a snowy day and a spotters guide. I recommend ages 3-6 for this very snowy book Get stuck in! Alice
‘I enjoy reading and writing poetry, but this was so different. Good different. When I saw the cover I though this book might be to babyish for me, but I had to look up a lot of the words. The writing made the pictures come to life. I would give Jack and Boo’s Snowy Day a big thumbs up ! By Rebecca Irons age 8.
What has been found at Blackgang Chine ! Over 300 years ago, King Louis the XIV of France, famous for his epicurean tastes, ordered his men to faraway Mauritius to source him the rarest of delicacies: the eggs of a Dodo. Intercepted by English pirates on their return voyage, the ship was wrecked on the rocks off Blackgang Chine, and its cargo was buried by the pirates deep in the cliffs. There the eggs sat, untouched for hundreds of years whilst the entire species died out. But, earlier this year, shocked Blackgang Chine staff discovered the eggs deep in the earth, and, the very next day, in defiance of science itself, the eggs began to hatch! So why not take a visit to the Valley of the Dodos, and witness this unbelievable Dodo spectacle for yourself. It may just be Blackgang’s most eccentric attraction yet! See advert page 27.
02 The Family Directory
Louie and Ella, aged 8.
While every effort and care has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions it may contain. The Family Directory does not imply an endorsement of the service of product. The Data Protection Act requires that we inform you that your company or service is listed in this Directory, it is on our computer. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form. or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, or stored in any retrieval system, without prior written permission of the publisher. Copyright © The Rainbow Directory and The Family Directory
The Family Directory 03
Activities
Activities Baby Signing
Cooking Lessons
TinyTalk Emily 07900 803521 01983 612577 Baby signing classes from newborn to 2 years - allows your baby to express themselves long before they can talk! We sing nursery rhymes and learn everyday baby signs (BSL), followed by play time with drinks and biscuits! Classes are fun and relaxed. For your FREE Trial Class please call or email emilyp@tinytalk.co.uk
atsarahshouse.com 01983 853385 Our informal children’s cookery workshop’s share the fun and hands on experience that make cooking wonderful.
Dance, Drama and Music
Allendale Equestrian Centre (See ad page 7 & 10) Riding lessons from 4 years up, beginners, improvers, and the experienced.
Dance Vibez Ann Abe 07530 176501 Classes for toddlers and up-wards (adults and professional dancers) ballet, tap, free style, hip hop, performing arts, Melody Bear classes, Parent and toddler classes, exams, show work (including west end shows and charity work ) Plenty of fun for all ages and an exciting way to stay fit and healthy. Just Jhoom Bollydance and Pop Dance also. Students can now gain points into uni and we are working towards a West End show at The Royal Albert Hall and all students over the age of six may be able to take part. Ann Abe member of United Kingdom Alliance. Professional dancer and teacher. Also available for childrens parties and discos.
Bodster Equine Assisted Learning Centre 01983 854858 07790 305108 We help develop self confidence through experiences with horses on the ground contact Mrs Jo Boddington or email joandgi@googlemail.com (See ad page 6)
Gillian Cartwright School of Dance 01983 730401 Classes in Ballet, Modern, Tap, Jazz and Aerobics for 3 years to adult. Exams, Festivals and SHOW WORK. Studios in Shanklin and Lake. Qualified teachers of the R.A.D. - I.S.T.D. and B.T.D.A. The Islands most award winning dance school. PJ’s Theatre School www.pjstheatreschool.co.uk 01983 611791 Children’s classes held in RYDE and NEWPORT, Singing, Dance & Drama, Ballet, Tap, Modern, Tiny Tots & Parent/Toddler dance. Exams & Awards, local & west end shows, Festivals / displays & Panto. Learn with working professionals - Qualified Fellow with the U.K.A. - Matrons IOW Council for child Ents - Members of C.D.E.T. - fully CRB. The Island Dance and Theatre Company 07707 414494 01983 863615 Studios in: BRADING. GODSHILL and SHANKLIN, Why not Keep fit and healthy! We offer a range of classes for different age groups including classes for children with special needs; all are welcome from 2½ years - from Tiny tots to Adults Offering: IDTA exams (Recognised by Ofqual) awards, carnivals, shows (local, West End and abroad). Fully CRB’d, insurances etc. Qualified teacher of the I.D.T.A, R.A.D and N.A.T.D. Only £2.30 per class. Why not join us for our next show! www.theislanddance.co.uk Rhythm Time (See ad page 9)
07950 501763
Stage Skool Ryde 07898 893449 Dance, singing and drama. First session is FREE, so come along and see what we do. Spotlight Stage Schools (See ad page 9)
07813 849803
Follow us on Twitter The Family Directory 04 The Family Directory
Horse Riding 01983 840258
Multi Sports Activities Premier School Sport Coaching Limited 07810 693182 Sandown Rocks Climbing Wall Community and group sessions. Trampolining / Pre-School Gymnastics / Gymnastics New - Laser Combat and Sports Themed Birthday Parties email: premierschoolsportcoaching@hotmail.co.uk
Swimming Jane McGregor Swimming Academy (See ad page 6) Swimming classes for all ages and abilities.
01983 563139
Pamela’s Swimming School - UKSA Cowes 07732 641125 ASA Swimming lessons from 2½ years to adult. small class sizes: 1:4 for non-swimmers/beginners. Swim with Sev and Claire - www.swimiow.net Waterside Pool, Ryde. Toddler / Pre-school Classes, Private 1:1 and 1:2 lesson
01983 615878
Water Babies (See ad page 7 & 8) 01983 717005 Swimming lessons for babies and toddlers. Classes are held at West Wight Sports Centre and the UKSA in Cowes. For further information please contact us or email humptydumpty@waterbabies.co.uk or check out our website on www.waterbabies.co.uk Waterside (See ad page 10 & 30) 01983 563656 Whether you are just wanting to perfect your childs front crawl or actually have them take the first steps into the water, we have a class to suit you.
Tree Climbing Goodleaf Tree Climbing Fun, Safe, Exhilarating Tree Climbing for ages 8 & over. www.goodleaf.co.uk
0333 8001188
The Family Directory 05
Activities
Activities Allendale Equestrian Centre
Allendale offers riding for children (as well as adults) of all abilities from 4 years of age. The stables is the only one on the island having a BHS registered instructor as well as being the only approved training centre so children will be in safe hands. Lessons are on Saturday and Sunday afternoons as well as during the week after school and in holidays. Hacking is also available for competent riders. Once children have learned the basics they will have the opportunity to join Allendale Rangers Club, a fun club for children aged 7 to 17 years. Rangers ride as well as learning to look after horses and those of a higher standard can compete in shows with a horse from the stables (supplied free of charge). Some of our children have gone on to great things, most recently runner up Isle of Wight hunt supreme champion at the age of 16! The stables are situated directly on a bridleway in glorious riding country. For children with parents who can ride, what could be better than a family ride? Or why not join your children for lessons? For more information and details of prices please see advert page 10
Rhythm Time RHYTHM TIME offers interactive music sessions for baby, toddler and preschool age children. We have varying levels of activities to suit specific ages and physical abilities, currently running our sessions in Cowes and Binstead. We also provide a session for under 5’s at JrZone in NEWPORT on Wednesday. You are able to join in our musical fun then stay and play for as long as you like! Our fantastically written programmes rotate termly providing continued interest for both children and adults. All staff enthusiastically deliver sessions each week understanding how important they are for a child’s CONFIDENCE, CREATIVITY and COORDINATION together with having a giggle! Activities range from dancing, singing, playing cymbals, drums, triangles, tambourines, woodblocks, sandblocks, chime bars, rhythm sticks, bells, shakers and xylophones. Using hoops, balls, scarves, lycra, puppets, bubbles, popcorn to paper plates and water! To book your Free trial see advert page 9.
Water Babies Babies on the Isle Of Wight are enjoying the benefits of swimming with a national award winning company Water babies, not only have they won the most recent ‘What’s on 4 Little Ones’ award for the best baby and Toddler development programme they have won it for the past 5 years in succession! Jo Hobbs the Islands resident instructor had been teaching classes since Sept 2011 and is thoroughly enjoying her role having brought both her own children to Water Babies in Southampton for four years. New classes start week beginning 13th May 2013. Classes are held at Cowes on a Thursday afternoon and a Saturday morning. For further information please contact water babies on 01983 717005 or check out our website on www.waterbabies.co.uk See advert page 8
06 The Family Directory
The Family Directory 07
Activities
Activities
Spotlight IOW Spotlight (IOW) Ltd is based on the Isle of Wight, where our dedicated and experienced team run a variety of educational workshops, a fantastic summer season of professional shows, an incredibly successful pantomime and five busy stage schools for children aged 4 - 18. At our theatre schools, everyone from the youngest kids to the older teenagers receives first-class lessons in singing, dancing and acting. We offer two main types of workshop. Our fun Whirlwind Workshop is a 2 hour introduction to the world of theatre, aimed primarily at visiting school groups - some of whom have been coming for over ten years! Our in-depth Performance Workshops involve the students learning a complete show in just five days, and are particularly popular with EFL organisations.
08 The Family Directory
The Family Directory 09
Education
Activities
Family Cooking Turkey and Sweet Potato Crumble© Recipe provided courtesy of Four Seasons Cookery Academy
At Sarahs House Here atsarahshouse.com we love all things home; With our website going live and the opening of our cake shop this season it’s all very exciting. Our informal children’s cookery workshop’s share the fun and hands on experience that make cooking wonderful.
4 Turkey Breasts - cut into cubes 1 Sweet Potato (peeled and cut into chunks) 2 Red Onions - peeled and diced / 2 Cloves Garlic - peeled and finely chopped 1 large tub Half-fat Crème Fraiche 1 Chicken Stock Cube (preferably low salt) Crumble Topping 3ozs Flora Margarine 6 ozs Plain/Wholegrain Flour 2 ozs Reduced Fat Cheese (grated) Serves 4 - 6
l l
Clay oven Building Sugarcraft
Children’s cookery l l l l l
Bagel making Sour dough Pasta making Cupcake decorating Brownies making
We look forward to seeing you very soon in Ventnor or joining us online!
Tel: 01983 853385
www.atsarahshouse.com 10 The Family Directory
Place the prepared Sweet Potato into a pan of boiling water and cook until just soft. Place a little Olive Oil in a saucepan and gently fry the Onions. Add the Turkey pieces and cook until they are
l
Workshops for 2013
l
light brown and the juices of the turkey run clear.
Crumble in the Stock Cube. l Mix together and then add the tub of Crème Fraiche. Mix well together. Season with a little black pepper if l
desired. Simmer gently for approximately 10 minutes.
To make the Crumble, place the Margarine and the Flour into a bowl and rub it in together until it looks like fine
l
breadcrumbs. Mix in the cheese.
Place the Turkey mixture into a deep oven proof dish and lightly top with the Crumble mixture. l Bake in a hot oven - approximately 190 degrees celcius/Gas mark 5 - until golden brown on top. l
Using low fat Crème Fraiche, Cheese and Margarine reduces the fat content of this delicious meal considerably We have used Turkey as it is leaner - and cheaper - than Chicken. You might like to make it even healthier by using a Multigrain Flour for the Crumble topping. We are also lightly topping the Turkey mixture with the Crumble instead of piling it on. Serve with fresh, seasonal vegetables.
www.cookeryacademy.co.uk The Family Directory 11
Independent Schools
Education Hordle Walhampton School
Helping you find the right school If asked how to go about choosing the right school for your child what would you say? It is a good idea to do your research, call the school ask them when is the next open day. Don’t just look around one school, visit a few that you think will suit your child’s needs. Make a list of question you need to ask. Many schools benefit from having small class numbers then giving more personalised attention. Ask if you can talk to other parents at the school if you are interested and for children travelling cross the Solent ask about mini buses and travel plans the school have put in place. To help with the cost many schools offer some form of financial assistance in the form of scholarships and bursaries. As a parent, you are in the fortunate position of having a good range of independent school choices available to you on and off the Island. A good website that offers free and impartial advice on all aspects of independent education across the uk is www.isc.co.uk
Tuition Kumon English and Maths (See ad page 15) 01983 853643 Complete after school English and mathematics programmes for children 4-14 of all abilities. www.kumon.co.uk
Music Tuition Katherine Maitland BA Hons, PGCE 07762 410112 Flute and Piano Tuition. Beginners to advanced. Just for fun or for exams. Ryde area. Please call for a trial lesson.
Independent School Fiveways Ryde School (See ad inside front cover) 01983 616272 High quality education for boys and girls aged 3 - 7 years in a secure, caring environment. Hordle Walhampton, Lymington (See ad page 15) 01590 672013 Independent boarding and day school for boys and girls from 2 - 13 years. We provide the best possible teaching and have small classes. Mayville High School (See ad inside front cover) 023 9273 4847 Independent school in Southsea. Girls and Boys from 6 mths - 16years. Small - Unique and Successful. Mini Bus picks up from the Hover Craft to the school and back each day. Portsmouth High School 023 9282 6714 One of the leading independent, all-girls’ schools on the South Coast. Hover nanny available. Priory School (See ad page 15) Priory School offers a independent education for girls and boys from 4 - 18 years.
12 The Family Directory
01983 861222
Fiveways & Junior School
Set within one hundred acres, Hordle Walhampton School near Lymington, provides a striking balance of academic rigour alongside sport, drama, art, music and over 60 on-site extra curricular activities. Hordle Walhampton is openly committed to an educational journey, offering each child true breadth and variety. Few prep schools offer such a significant range; from chess to sailing on its own lakes, to journalism and riding in the onsite equestrian centre. From 2 up to 13, boys and girls are treated as individuals. The school is dedicated to unlocking each child’s full potential within the classroom, while also finding their passion whether it be on the sports field, stage, music rooms or even at our been keeping club. Small classes ensure teacher to child ratios are excellent, with classes kept to an average of 13-15 children. Day children are completely integrated with full, weekly and flexi-boarding, all of who thrive within our ‘home from home’ school. Children traveling from the Island are escorted by a member of staff and transferred by the school’s mini bus. This provides true peace of mind and ensures professional supervision for children traveling by ferry. Hordle Walhampton delivers excellent academic results. Pupils are truly prepared for their next step into senior education. It is with great pride that many pupils achieve scholarships to the day or boarding senior schools of choice in a variety of disciplines including Academic, Sports, CDT, Drama, Art, Music, as well as All Rounder and even Equestrian scholarships. See advert page 15.
Ryde School
The best start to learning Our youngest pupils have a fabulous purpose built building sited on the Fiveways junction. Vibrant classrooms lead seamlessly into indoor and outdoor play areas where children are able to develop confidence and skills whilst learning and exploring the world around them. Fiveways provides a memorable and positive start to school and we are sure that you will find it a happy and friendly place to begin such an important adventure. We are often asked by visitors, ‘What makes the Junior School special?’ It is taken as read that children do well academically and in sports, languages, music and the arts, but it is also an amazingly compassionate community. This is something that you sense as you go round the School. Principles sound so old-fashioned but here they still matter; we believe in kindness, respect and duty. We also continue to believe in a healthy mix of traditional and innovative educational approaches, arousing curiosity and ambition in our pupils. We have never stopped learning our tables and spellings, but we also continue to move our curriculum forward, introducing new trips, challenges, clubs and making ICT an integral tool for learning. We ensure our children do well and achieve their best. See advert inside front cover.
The Family Directory 13
Independent Schools
Independent Schools Big Team Small School Choosing the right school for your child can be difficult and stressful, but knowing that as a parent you have a choice means you can have what you believe is the best. From the Nursery right up to our GCSE students in Yr 11, all 475 of the children at Mayville High School in Southsea have an enviable advantage of being in a small nurturing environment that offers many choices. Girl’s Reception teacher Alison Flower says, “I have twelve girls in my class and there are fourteen in the boys. We take pupils out on trips every other week because we can fit them all in two of our minibuses.”
Priory School Priory School has now been a year at its new site at Whippingham, completing the freehold purchase in September 2012 of this historic site to give long-term security to its pupils, parent and staff. It has grown 40% since it came under new management in 2009 and relocated. The Senior School is housed in the Victorian part or “old building”, with the Junior School and its large, welllit Reception Class that gives on to the playing fields taking up the “new building”, the purpose-built addtiion of 1996 that includes the spacious and versatile hall that hosts assemblies, lunches, formal public exams, drama, music, film showings and indoor PE. One of the great advantages of the new site is the playing field allowing football, tag rugby, netball and hockey in winter and spring, with a 300 metre running track laid on grass allowing athletics in the summer to complement cricket, rounders and tennis. These enhanced facilities have already led to football and tag rugby teams covering themselves in glory by reaching finals of Island competitions for the first time.
Being part of a bigger school younger pupils really benefit from the extra facilities that brings, such as having use of Mayville’s playing fields, (20.4 acres of open green space in Southsea)! Headteacher Martin Castle says, “Your child’s teacher will get to know your son or daughter very quickly and this helps them settle into a new class easily. It also means that their Headteacher gets to know them as well and not just because they appear outside the Head’s office.” Mum Lesley Cowlard has four daughters at Mayville ranging from Yr 10 to Yr 4. She says, “The school has found what each of my children is good at, and they’ve all been well supported. There is so much opportunity.” Life at Mayville is non-stop go. In the Junior School there are offers of residential trips in Yr4, Yr5, Yr6, and also a ski trip in Yr5, and Yr6. In the Senior School the list of trips is also endless including skiing, Art/Languages/ICT to Barcelona, A Choir/History trip to Paris and a month long trip to Cambodia for anyone who is 16yrs or above. Opportunities at Mayville are endless.” So why not come and pay us a visit we would love to show you around.
See advert page 15.
See advert inside front cover.
14 The Family Directory
The Family Directory 15
Pre-Schools & Nursery Schools
Education Boost your child’s confidence with Kumon’s maths and English study programmes Kumon offers individualised maths and English study programmes which are tailored to your child’s age and ability. Kumon’s unique worksheet-based method can help your child to excel academically, develop their capacity for learning independently and boost their all round confidence. Your child will start at a level they are comfortable with, consolidating familiar topics before moving on to something new. By working at their own pace and studying a little every day, your child will build their confidence and quickly make progress. The Kumon programmes complement classroom learning, building speed and accuracy and developing abilities such as time management and problem-solving. Above all, they develop confident, independent learners, ensuring each child can study by themselves. The Cowes and Sandown Study Centres are run by maths teacher Harry Vernon.The Cowes Study Centre is located at St Andrew’s Hall on Bridge Road, Cowes and is open on Tuesdays from 3.30pm to 5.30pm and on Fridays from 4pm to 6pm. The Sandown Study Centre is located at Sandown Bay Academy, on The Fairway, Sandown and is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 4pm to 6pm. See ad page 15 Visit www.kumon.co.uk/sandown
Fran’s Adolescent Cardiac Trust-IOW. We are holding fund raising events for schools all over the Island to have defibrillators as last year 260 young people died in the UK while in School because of undetected heart conditions. Staff and students can then be shown how to use defibrillators with the skills and knowledge to save a life.
Blackberry Lane Pre-School Cowes Outstanding Ofsted approved pre-school. www.blackberrylanecowes.co.uk
01983 298344
Casa dei bambini Montessori Nursery 01983 566188 A small run established private Montessori Nursery. Providing a good educational and caring environment. The nursery is open for children aged between 2-5 years.
Every week in the UK at least 12-15 young people die suddenly from undiagnosed heart conditions. We are also trying to raise funds for a heart screening unit.
Chatterbox Nursery (See ad back cover) 01983 616779 Nurseries in Ryde & Nettlestone, providing outstanding care and education. For the best start in life in a home from home environment.
What if, your child or any member of your family was having a cardiac arrest, wouldn’t you want them to have the best chance of survival. We need to raise awareness death to prevent more lives being lost
Fiveways Nursery (See ad inside front cover) 3 - 7 years high quality education for boys and girls in a secure caring environment.
01983 616272
Island Day Nurseries (See ad inside front cover) 5 Nurseries - Pre-schools Newport, Sandown, Wootton, Brading and St Helens.
01983 533334
Playroom (See ad page 16) Offers full daycare and nursery education for 0 - 5 years.
01983 853955
. PLEASE help us by raising funds. For information contact Tina 07898 893449 or tinamaretic@aol.com
YMCA St Mary’s Day Nursery & Pre-school (See ad page 18) 01983 525423 Children are provided with a wide range of learning experiences both within the nursery building and our extensive garden. YMCA Winchester House Day Nursery & Pre School (See ad page 18) 01983 861073 The nursery boasts plenty of indoor and outdoor space, with large playrooms and plenty of exciting play equipment suitable for different age groups.
Parents and Toddlers Groups CatURpillars Babies and Toddlers Activity Session , Shanklin 01983 862485 Thursdays 12.45 - 2.30pm and Fridays 10.00 - 12.00. Ride on car, ball pool, play dough, sorting toys, baby area, singing time and lots more. £1.00 per child £1.50 per family inc healthy drink and snack. YMCA Winchester House - Baby & Toddler Group (Shanklin) 01983 861073 Come and meet other parents and children (0-2yrs) for fun-filled indoor and outdoor activities in an OFSTED registered setting. Thursdays 10:00am - 11:30am, all year round. £1.00 per family including refreshments. Call and book today! NCT Bumps & Babies 0844 243 6176 Bumps and Babies, Church on the Roundabout, Newport every Tues. morning 09.30 - 11.30 except term times. NCT Bumps & Babies 0844 243 6176 Bumps, Babies & Beyond, Rookley Village Hall, Friday mornings, 10 - 12 except summer holidays.
Find us on Facebook The Family Directory 16 The Family Directory
The Family Directory 17
Education
Education The Best Start in Life
The Island Day Nursery
Chatterbox nursery and preschools offer a homely environment where children are made to feel welcome and encouraged to achieve, with fully qualified staff dedicated to providing nurture and outstanding education.
Do you have a child who will be two years old on or before 31st August 2013? If so you may be entitled to 15 hours of funded childcare, for the first time, from September 2013. Under a new government initiative, two year old children whose parents / carers are in receipt of certain benefits may qualify for free childcare. Contact 01983 533334 for more details and an opportunity to let your little one do a play and stay visit, with you, at any of our locations. Places for babies under 12 months are available at all our locations as well as places for two year olds and above. And remember all three and four year olds are entitled to 15 hours of funded childcare from the start of the term following their third birthday.
YMCA Nurseries YMCA nurseries are dedicated to providing excellent year round care and learning through play for babies and children under 5. We have 7 nurseries across the south east with 2 fantastic nurseries on the island; (Shanklin and Newport). Both nurseries are firmly embedded within their local communities and are easily accessible on main commuting routes with plenty of space for parking and safely dropping children off. Our Shanklin nursery is in a beautiful seaside location. Alongside its quality daycare for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years, it also runs a Baby & Toddler Group every Thursday morning for 0-2 years. Our Newport Nursery is conveniently located within the grounds of St. Mary’s hospital, perfect for parents living or working in Newport. We have the benefit of a beautiful woodland garden, where children can safely explore and play. Our qualified and experienced staff seek to be inspirational role models, they will assess your child’s individual interests and develop them through activities tailored to your child’s needs. DISCOUNTED FEES available to NHS, Isle of Wight Council, Hampshire Constabulary and HM Prison Service employees. We are committed to supporting families and the local community.
Pop in and see us you don’t need an appointment. 861073 (YMCA Nursery, Shanklin, Winchester House) 525423 (YMCA Nursery, Newport, St. Mary’s) www.ymca-fg.org
18 The Family Directory
Chatterbox Ryde has a baby department, taking babies from 6 weeks, with a separate sleep room, dining room and two further play rooms. Chatterbox understands the need for the right environment for babies, to make them feel safe and secure in the same way as they would at home with mum. Children aged over 2 years are catered for separately offering exciting indoor and outdoor activities every day. Chatterbox prides its self in offering freshly cooked, healthy food daily including lunch, tea and snacks. Chatterbox Nettlestone is located on the primary school site and offers a breakfast, afterschool and preschool facility to children aged from 2 to 11 years.
With school holidays never far off, The Island Day Nurseries can provide the flexibility that will suit the needs of most families. Holiday clubs for primary school age children run during the school holidays in Newport, Sandown, Wootton and Brading from 9am till 4pm. Longer care from 7.45am to 5.45pm can be arranged for an additional charge. Outside of holiday times, for parents returning to work or study, babies to school age children are well cared for in Newport, Sandown, Wootton, Brading and StHelens. For older primary school age children, breakfast and after school clubs are offered as well.
Two Year old Funding - Free funded hours for 2, 3 and 4 year olds are welcome to be used however you like at Chatterbox. Two year old funding is going to increase in 2013, you can apply for funding by contacting your local children’s centre. School Readiness - New for 2013 are school readiness sessions which will be available during the summer holidays, these sessions will cover everything your child needs to prepare them for school. Chatterbox provides affordable, flexible and quality childcare. See advert page back cover.
Owned and managed by husband and wife, Roseleen and Richard Cullen, together with an excellent team of managers and staff, they aim to provide a home from home atmosphere by working in close partnership with parents and carers to ensure that routines and preferences from home are followed in all the nurseries and pre-schools. See our advert on the inside front cover for all our contact details. The Family Directory 19
Top Things To Do Over Spring
22 The Family Directory
Top Things To Do Over Spring
The Family Directory 23
Spring Camps
Places to Visit and Eat
Easter Camp Holidays YMCA Daycamps in Winchester House, Shanklin provide fun filled activity programmes every school holiday to children from reception class up to 12 years of age. Daycamps are open from 8am - 6pm and give children the opportunity to try new things, make new friends and get stuck in to the large range of activities we have on offer. Our Daycamps programmes have exciting themes, and children are divided into age ranges for the activities, to ensure that they are age-appropriate and fun for everyone (Explorers, 4 - 8 years & Adventurers, 9 - 12 years). Some of our spring 2013 indoor and outdoor activities include an Easter Egg Hunt, Revolting Recipes, making Bird Feeders, a Cliff Top Trail and Team Games plus lots more. Our full programmes can be found on our website. Remember that Daycamps are open weekdays during every school holiday and are great value for money. STILL just £20.00 per day and £12.00 per half day, with an additional 5% discount if you book online!
To book or find out more contact us today. Enquiries – 01983 862441 Bookings – 01489 785228 Or book online and save 5% www.ymca-fg.org
24 The Family Directory
The Family Directory 25
Places to Visit and Eat
Places to Visit and Eat Owl & Monkey Haven
ISLE OF WIGHT
A captivating and heartwarming animal experience
Sanctuary ng
Award Win ni
Daily events Beautiful grounds Tea room and gift shop Adventure play areas
Open from 10am daily Staplers Road, Newport, PO30 2NB Tel: 01983 530885 www.owlandmonkeyhaven.co.uk
26The Family Directory
The Family Directory 27
Places to Visit and Eat
Places to Visit and Eat Blackgang Chine
The Needles at Alum Bay
“Pimp my Gnome” Competition
This year Blackgang Chine will be celebrating its 170th Anniversary, making it the UK’s oldest theme park. Founded by a young entrepreneur named Alexander Dabell in 1843, the Chine was originally a spectacular gorge that cut some 500 foot deep into the cliff face bringing Victorians from far and wide to experience its breathtaking views.
The Needles Park at Alum Bay is a great fun day out for all the family. The Island’s most famous landmark attraction has so much more to enjoy than the stunning views. The Needles Park offers a range of attractions including the spectacular chairlift to the beach to see the Needles Rocks and lighthouse and the world famous coloured sand cliffs. At the sand shop visitors can make their very own unique Alum Bay coloured sand souvenir.
Spring Garden Show at Robin Hill 27th 28th April
The very first attraction was the skeleton of a whale, which had been washed up on a nearby beach. He bought the creature, sold the blubber, bleached the bones and set about displaying it at the Chine for the curiosity of all the visitors, and although the pathways to the sea have long since washed away, the skeleton still exists in the park today as the oldest attraction, setting the tone for the park to become the home of the weird and the wonderful. As the park developed, it became home to a series of fun and fantastical tableaux depicting full-sized dinosaurs, cowboys, pirates, fairies and nursery rhyme favourites. In 2013 the park is still owned and run by the descendants of Alexander Dabell. The park continues to expand and develop every year in order to accommodate new generations of curiosity and fun seekers.So take a visit to the land that never grows old in its 170th year, and see where your imagination will take you. For more information see advert page 27.
Its educational as well as fun at Alum Bay Glass where visitors can watch the fascinating art of glass blowing where craftsman make a variety of items right before your eyes. At the Isle of Wight Sweet Manufactory watch sweets being made and you might even be able to taste the results.
Whooping gibbons, mischievous marmosets, cheeky capuchins and alluring owls are just some of the wonderful cast of animals that await your visit at the Owl & Monkey Haven this Spring.
Shanklin Seafront At Shanklin Seafront we’ve made some massive changes! With two brand new 18 hole Golf courses and the Pirates Cove Adventure Fun Park there is everything you need for a day at the seaside! The 18 Hole Crazy golf offers an ‘Arnold Palmer’ style experience which will test your skill and at the end gives you a chance to win a free game. Next to this there is the Pirates Cove18 Hole Adventure golf where you play amidst waterfalls, a Pirates cave and a fully rigged pirate ship! If you choose to play both you’ll receive a massive 25% discount and can play the other course at a later stage in the week! Opening for Easter Is the Pirates Cove Adventure Fun Park, expect Go Karts, Trampolines, Aqua boats, Water Zorbs, Orbiter Dodgems and more to be announced! As well as this we have Jungle Jims Indoor play area, the Jungle Adventure golf and Summer Arcade with all the latest in family entertainment! Refreshments are available from our Cafeteria, beach store and Ice cream Kiosk offering all the seaside favourites! See advert inside back cover.
28 The Family Directory
All you have to do is collect a blank gnome & entry card from one of our pick up points (Robin Hill front entrance, any Hospice shop or the Rapanui shop, High Street Sandown- between 23rd March & 21st April, while stocks last) then take him or her home and give them some bling!
During the Winter months, the Haven has been busy refurbishing enclosures and re-homing more animals and birds in need of care. With new arrivals and more on their way, the Haven looks forward to its third year and the launch of the LEAF Foundation; our new bird of prey rescue and rehabilitation centre.
For further information please visit our website: www.owlandmonkeyhaven.co.uk See ad page 26
Well, in 2013 gnomes are very much back and at the height of gardening fashion again. These smiley guardians of the garden have even been invited to appear at the RHS Chelsea show for the first time ever in gnome history after being banned from exhibition for over 100 years! So if they are good enough for Chelsea...they sure are welcome on the Isle of Wight too! So we’ve teamed up with the Island’s super cool clothing brand Rapanui and The Family Directory to bring you the first ever “Pimp my Gnome” competition...and it’s all in aid of the Isle of Wight Earl Mountbatten Hospice!
Owl and Monkey
New for 2013: Martin & Lulu together at last! Newly refurbished tea room now offering a wider range of light lunches and refreshments, including; freshly prepared sandwiches, baguettes, jackets, pasties and cakes. Daily keeper talks, meet the owls, two play areas, excellent disabled access and pre-arranged marmoset encounters / birthday parties makes the Haven an ideal place to visit for all animal lovers.
Some say a garden isn’t a garden without a cheeky gnome on guard in the flower bed...while others have exiled these miniature green-fingered folk to the potting shed, out of sight and very much out of mind.
This is all about raising money for the IW Hospice and the official blank gnomes will cost £5.00 at the point of collection, with proceeds going to the Hospice. We can’t accept nonofficial gnomes, but the great news is that everyone that enters an official gnome gets £5.00 off the entry price to the show, so you can’t really lose out!
There are a variety of Children’s attractions including a traditional family Carousel and Tea Cup ride, not to mention the games kiosk where you can win a prize every time! As well as our Spin Cycle and Water Walkerz, we have Vintage Cars where children and adults alike can drive a vintage car around a track. For those dinosaur fans Jurassic Golf is perfect - a 9 hole adventure golf with 3 and 4 par holes, water feature and story boards depicting 9 different dinosaur species.
Gnomes are available on a first come first serve basis and supplies of these little people will be limited. Search the Robin Hill, The Family Directory or Rapanui websites to find out more or visit gardenshow.robin-hill.com for the full details and to check gnome availability.
Good luck! See advert page 30
The park has some great shops including the Pier Head Shopping Emporium where you can get your hands on a huge range of souvenirs to suit all tastes and budgets. The park has full catering facilities, a fully licensed Tearoom and some great kiosks serving fresh coffee, ice cream and much more! Bring the attached advert to our main office to claim your Free Island residents parking permit for the year. See advert page 25
The Family Directory 29
Places to Visit and Eat
Places to Visit and Eat
Win yourself a learn to skate course with Planet Ice
How many people does it take to successfully run a swimming pool?
An entire community!
Planet Ice in Ryde has a fantastic opportunity to win yourself a Learn to Skate Course with all the extra benefits that come with it!
“That is what has happened at Waterside, and if Ryde or indeed the Island, has ever had anything to be proud of it is this achievement. Why? Because the threatened closure of the pool has brought together a team of Trustees, staff and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to ensure the pool becomes both financially viable and better than anyone dared dream.
Planet Ice in Ryde has one of the most successful ‘Learn to Skate’ Courses in the UK. Skate UK is the approved Learn to Skate Course developed by the National Ice Skating Association which Planet Ice has adopted as one of the fundamental training scheme for all their Learn to Skates.
In one year the pools membership has increased by 150%, our, already popular aquafit classes, public and school swimming lessons are now seeing record numbers. So job done?
The Skate UK programme teaches movement and basic ice skating skills for skaters of all ages in 10 clear stages. Each Learn to Skate Course lasts for a 6 week period and for a small fee of £60 it includes the following; Special introductory gift, Skate UK badge and Certificate signed by the Chief Executive of Skate UK and the Arena Manager Skate UK record of achievement booklet.
Emma Watts Photography
Not a chance. We are adding a new sauna, outdoor gym, table tennis, luxurious decking area with seating and still we are planning to improve everything we do. Don’t forget our swimming lesson prices have not increased since 2010, we want everyone to be able to ensure their child can swim and we will continue to be competitive in price and unbeatable in standards on all fronts. Can I publically take this opportunity to thank all Trustees, Staff and volunteers…
Dreams can come true you have proved it.”
Q: How many weeks does a Learn to Skate Course last?
Please remember only one entry per child is permitted, please write clearly with your name address, aged and phone number and email address then send your answer to The Family Directory , PO Box 119, Bembridge, Isle of Wight PO35 5WZ. By the 22nd April Or you can enter the competition if you visit www.thefamilydirectory.co.uk All winners will be notified by phone and by post. If you enter the competition your details will not be passed on.
Phil Weston Programming Manager Waterside Pool
30 The Family Directory
We have 3 learn to skate courses with Plant Ice to give away so simply answer the following question
For more info see ad page 10.
The Family Directory 31
Bumps and Babies
Competition Chessell Pottery Barns Home of the ‘Ultimate Island Cream Tea’
3 Family Cream Teas to be won this Spring Win one of 3 family vouchers for Chessell Pottery Barns Ultimate Island Cream Tea. Served on Chessell Pottery’s own hand made pottery decorated with a simple strawberry design and sourced from local suppliers, the Ultimate Island Cream Tea is making a name for itself, winning ‘Best Island Cream Tea’ by the Wight Good Food Guide in 2010, 11 & 12. Chessell Pottery, home of the Ultimate Island Cream Tea, is a small, family run pottery in the heart of the countryside on the western side of the Isle of Wight, close to the famous cliffs once walked by Victorian poet laureate Alfred Lord Tennyson.
01983 716069
The Chessell Cream Tea couldn’t be more local – it consists of home baked scones made with the Island’s own Stoneground Flour and rich Island butter, and served with real clotted cream from local Calbourne Classics farm (the Island’s only RSPCA Freedom Food approved farm). This season Chessell has produced its own strawberry jam too, from New Forest strawberries, making a Cream tea at Chessell the ultimate local food experience. Tea is served on strawberry Chessell Ware in the pottery’s pretty Café (which includes a new seating area around a log burning stove) outside on the lawn, or in the courtyard under the Willow tree.
Precious Cargo
At Precious Cargo we offer a selection of baby products spread over three floors. This varies from prams, buggies, car seats, highchairs, baby walkers, bouncy chairs, bath equipment, potties, bedding, clothes, blankets, toys, gifts and much more.
NEW for 2013 - this May will see the launch of a new ‘Chessell High Tea’, with the help of expert pastry chef and new Café manager, Bridget Wells. Chessell are delighted to announce Bridget joining the team from the Royal Hotel, as they grow the Café business to an exciting new level. There will also be a ‘Strawberry Fair’ held June 29th & 30th, celebrating everything strawberry - from jam making to pottery painting, whilst the Café serve Pimms, strawberry milkshakes, shortcake and strawberry trifle, not forgetting Strawberry Teas! We have 3 Family Ultimate Island Cream Tea to give away so simply answer the following question:
Which famous Victorian poet walked the cliffs near Chessell Pottery Barns? Please remember only one entry per child is permitted, please write clearly with your name address, aged and phone number and email address then send your answer to The Family Directory , PO Box 119, Bembridge, Isle of Wight PO35 5WZ. By the 19th April Or you can enter the competition if you visit www.thefamilydirectory.co.uk All winners will be notified by phone and by post. If you enter the competition your details will not be passed on.
32 The Family Directory
All the staff have worked in nursery settings previously so we have the knowledge and experience to know what we think families need and can help with advice on what products might work best for them. All staff have been trained to fit car seats and we have dummy car seat in store for us to help demonstrate and we can also fit them in your car as we have a free car park just behind the shop. We sell car seats from companies such as Britax, Maxi-Cosi and Chicco. Our account system has been very popular. All you need to do is put a 20% deposit down on an item and you can then pay into your account at your leisure making it easier to pay off those larger items. We then keep it until you are ready to collect it. We sell vouchers for anyone who is not sure what to buy and makes a nice present. Many children enjoy coming in and playing with our train table or doing some drawing at the end of the shop this lets families wander around and have a look on what we have to offer. We have baby changing facility and a toilet for customer use. See advert above The Family Directory 33
Services
Services Stressed With the Juggling
Choices! Choices! Choices!
Choosing the right childcare is a very complex issue, with many options and decisions faced by sometimes new and inexperienced parents. These issues are magnified when dealing with children with special needs, dietary requirements or behavioural issues. Selecting the best combinations is a very important decision and crucial to the smooth running of your life in general. Families get larger, parents separate, work schedules become increasingly more complex; all this can add to the stress of being a parent in the 21st century!
Award winning Cowes Chiropractic Clinic has been established for over 10 years and is well known for providing high quality McTimoney chiropractic care.
All parents even ones on low incomes, can benefit from being able to claim back some of the cost of childcare they have their own home. This can be through salary sacrifice vouchers or Child Tax Credits, creating up to 80% reduction in the cost of your childcare. Home based childcare is now a viable option for families from all financial backgrounds and can in many cases be the best solution. Tax Credit Help Line 08453 003900 will be able to advise you on you eligibility. FIZ (Family Information Zone) 01983 821999 can also help with your childcare needs email: enquiries@freedomchildcare.com visit: www.freedomchildcare.com or call: 08453 300403
Follow us on Twitter The Family Directory
34 The Family Directory
Chiropractic, as a profession, has undergone significant changes in that time - a statutory regulatory body, The General Chiropractic Council, has been created by a Act of Parliament to ensure that anybody calling themselves a chiropractor is qualified and registered. The College of Chiropractors has achieved a Royal Charter. The profession as a whole has become more unified and open to sharing ideas and techniques. Reflecting these changes, graduates of the McTimoney College are now also trained in the more traditional Diversified chiropractic technique. This uses more vigorous adjustments and has not recently been widely available on the Isle of Wight. Phil Milner, who has been in practice at Cowes Chiropractic Clinic since 2010 and has undertaken further training in the Diversified technique, is fully insured and ready and waiting for those patient who prefer their adjustments with more of a ‘crack’ than a ‘flick’! To discuss which technique is most appropriate for your needs, more information, or free initial 15 minute consultation, please call Cowes Chiropractic Clinic on 01983 282810.
Noble Childcare Agency now serving the Isle of Wight.
Noble Childcare Agency provides the childcare you’ve been looking for. Marilyn Pitts-Noble, herself with over 15 years professional childcare experience and knowledge, has launched Noble Childcare to provide high quality excellent and affordable childcare to Island families and visitors alike. Understanding how difficult it is for parents juggling busy modern lives, Noble Childcare was created with the clear vision to provide dedicated, experienced and qualified carers to suit the family’s needs. The Carers have been chosen to join the team for their experience and ability to adapt to new environments and caring for children in a range of settings. Noble Childcare recognises no two children or families are alike, and each carer is handpicked to best suit you. Services include: Traditional Babysitting - so you can enjoy evenings out. Daily Nannies - taking complete care of your little ones. Mothers Help - a second pair of hands, working alongside parents to aid all daily activities from childcare to household chores. If you mention The Family Directory a special offer of half price joining fee for standard membership or half the booking fee each time. *All our staff are enhanced CRB checked and carry fully up to date First Aid Certificates.
The Family Directory 35
Abc Title Services
Services
DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO FOSTER A CHILD?
Can you make a difference to a child’s life? The Island has many children and young people in foster care, but needs new carers, in particular for teenagers, sibling groups, and parent and child placements. Carers come from all walks of life and backgrounds. The fostering and adoption team can offer good advice and dispel any concerns.
Family Link scheme The Family Link Scheme also needs support from new carers.
Is your child PROTECTED? Are you the parent of a child 0 - 5 years?
One of the most important things that a parent can do for their child is make sure that they have all of their routine childhood vaccinations. As a parent, you may not like seeing your baby or child being given an injection. However, vaccination is an important step in protecting your child against a range of serious and potentially fatal diseases. Vaccinations are quick, safe and extremely effective. Once your child has been vaccinated against a disease, their body can fight that disease more effectively if they come into contact with it. There is a programme for routine childhood vaccinations. Some are given more than once to make sure the protection continues. This is called a booster. Other vaccinations may be given at different times, depending on when they’re needed. Ideally, children should have their jabs at the right age to protect them as early as possible and minimise the risks of infection. An appointment will be sent to you from your Doctor to attend a vaccination clinic with your child. It is important that you attend this appointment. If you are not sure whether your child is fully up-to-date with their immunisations, contact your Health Visitor, Practice Nurse or Doctor who will be able to help you.
36 The Family Directory
The scheme places disabled children with ‘link families’ for a short break of a few hours or a couple of nights every month. If you would like to find out more about becoming a foster carer, or Family Link, call (01983) 823160, or visit www.iwight.com/ fostering
The Family Directory 37
Services
Try it, Test it and Review it... In the winter issue we had some Times Tables Learning Cube (Multiplication 1 to 12) from ZooBooKoo. The times table cube Supports National Numeracy Strategy for 6 - 11 years. We asked Island parents to write a review. This is what some had to say........
Zoobookoo multiplication cubes My son Finley loved using the zoo book koo cube to help him with his times tables. We found it was a fun way to learn and can be used at home for homework. Finley, also used it whilst on the move, reciting his times tables on the way to school was a great way to learn. It is a good quality learning tool, and was used to keep Finley’s hands busy whilst reciting the tables he knew as well as for checking the tables he was unsure of. Highly recommended! The children loved using these. First of all they explored the cube working out how to find all the different times tables. We then went online to zoobookoo and downloaded the activity sheets that can be used with them. There was a key stage 1 sheet and key stage 2 sheet. We used the key stage 2 sheet that involved word problems using the 6 times table. Being a primary school teacher I know that children often find word problems tricky. Using the cube made it much more fun.
Can you make a difference to a child’s life? The Isle of Wight has a brilliant environment for children to grow up and flourish in. Unfortunately, every year children are taken into care because their parents, for one reason or another, are unable to look after them. It may be that their parents are going through a difficult period, or that the child is subject to abuse or neglect. The problem is often unrelated to the child, and whatever it may be, the child needs looking after while the issues are resolved. The children can be hurt, frightened and sometimes angry, and deserve the support, shelter and comfort of a real home. Fostering is caring for such children in your own home. It is not adoption, but it can mean looking after a child for a week, a month, a year or sometimes even longer, helping them to thrive in a caring and safe environment. By providing a secure and loving home, you will help a child develop their self-esteem and learn that they are valued. While fostering can be very rewarding you will at times face difficulties. We offer a strong support team and do everything possible to help our carers. You will be working with a professional, experienced team of people, providing you with quality support and guidance. As an Isle of Wight foster carer, you will be provided with the opportunity to promote change and direction in a child’s life. To find out more and see how you can make a difference call (01983)
823160 or visit www.iwight.com/fostering
We have used the cube in the car and they have tested one another on various times tables. I can also see that they would be useful when completing maths homework from school. By Christina Howard
The next ‘Try it, Test it and Review it’ is with Baby Bump Paints The first 2 parents that email Baby Bump Paints to polly@thefamilydirectory.co.uk will be sent a FREE voucher to have their bump painted to try it, test it, review it. Are you expecting the pitter patter of tiny feet? How better than to celebrate your upcoming arrival with a personalised baby bump paint and some beautifully captured images as a special memory and keepsake of your pregnancy. Jo Lofthouse is a highly trained, award winning make up artist with over twelve years experience in the make up industry who can provide this fun, relaxing service for you in the comfort of your own home.
For best results, Baby Bump Paints are done somewhere between the 7th and 9th month of pregnancy. Prior to the paint, Jo will work with you to arrange and agree upon what sort of design you would like and help you with ideas.
For more information call 07740 825225 38 The Family Directory
The Family Directory 39
Island Families Lynn, Lee, James, Eleanor & Elizabeth Why do you like living in Cowes ?
We love the atmosphere of the town, lots of friends who live close by, being close to Gurnard beach and having the cycle track so close to hand.
Favourite Local Park Northwood Park
Favourite Local Club / Class Gurnard Beavers and Cubs
Philip, Eleanor Ethan & Alice Why do you like living in Newchurch ?
Favourite Child - Friendly Restaurant We like the The Watersedge - Gurnard
We love living so close to our children’s school that they walk there every day. We have beautiful countryside views but are still close to lots of beaches and Newport for work.
Favourite Place on the Island
Favourite Local Park
Osborne House is a lovely place on the Island for all the family.
Best Children’s Book
In our house we enjoy reading - Winnie the Witch and Horrid Henry stories
Favourite Beach
We like St Helens for days on the beach.
We like to go and climb on logs and look at the solitary bees in the Field of Hope in Newchurch.
Favourite Local Club / Class
Ethan loves 1st Newchurch Cubs and they both love the streetdance classes as an afterschool club run by Michelle Davis. We also think it essential for kids to learn to swim so they go to classes at the Heights.
Favourite Child – Friendly Restaurant
We like to go out for lunch or tea rather than dinner so our favourites are tearooms. Grange Farm at Alum Bay is our top spot for children - lots of favourites to eat and drink, a play farm, goats that like to nibble willow leaves and enough space to explore.
Favourite Place on the Island
It is tough to choose as there are so many fantastic places where we love to spend time (we never get bored). Calbourne Mill is a great place to go.
Best Children’s Book
That just has to be one of our own Jack and Boo adventures! Failing that the Faraway tree and Famous Five series by Enid Blyton are very popular at bedtime in our house.
Favourite Beach.
Node Point rockpools at St.Helen’s Duver - that beach has it all - dunes, shells, rockpools with lots of crabs and a great café.
40 The Family Directory