Let's Go! Magazine Summer 2013

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28/08/2012 10:10

Contents Outdoors & Active for Summer 5 Helpful Hints for 11+ Success 9 A Smooth Transition 13 Save Our Bees!

16 Get Fit for Life 18 Homestyle 22 www.WirralFamilyGuide.co.uk 23 Let’s Go! Box Office 24 Reduce Summer Holiday Costs 27 Review: LFC Bootroom 28 Summer Recipe 34 Get a Dog! 36 Free Nursery Places 41 10 Best Things About a Baby!

43 Tots Timetable 46 Find the Right Nursery 50 Nursery Activity Classes 53 Summer Events Diary 57 Let’s Party!

88 Let’s Go! Distribution and Thanks 94 Editor Barry Bragg, Design & Production Neil Rees for SunriseDP.co.uk, Publisher Melissa Bragg, Advertising Claire Jackson-Twist, Creative Assistant Alex Ramsey.

Published by Let’s Go! Publishing Limited.

With kind thanks to our contributors. © Copyright Let’s Go! Publishing Limited.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, either in part or as a whole, without prior written consent. All details are correct at time of publication. To advertise telephone 0151 200 7422 or email advertising@ letsgomagazine.co.uk

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ello and welcome to another bumper issue of Let’s Go! magazine, celebrating all that is great about summer. The weather may not always be the best but summer months are all about relaxing and having fun with family and friends.

As ever we have hundreds of ideas to keep you informed and entertained and if you log onto our website at www.wirralfamilyguide.co.uk we’ll keep you up to date with all the latest news, offers and events. Plus you will also find lots of great competitions to enter, printable downloads to amuse the kids and our new ‘Box office’ service where you can browse and buy tickets to hundreds of popular family attractions with the click of a mouse (see page 24 for details).

With a distribution of 38,000 copies, Let’s Go! reaches 20,000 more homes than other family magazines and makes us the preferred read for Wirral parents. Let’s Go! is available across the widest network of outlets, at every primary school, day nursery, children’s centre, library, health centre and many other distribution points including Council Departments, Registry Office, playgroups and maternity wards.

Thanks to all our contributors and for all your ideas, feedback, encouragement and support. It is wonderful to have so much input from so many people and we appreciate every piece. Let’s Go! magazine and website is funded through responsible advertising from some of Wirral’s most reputable family friendly companies.

Should you decide to contact any of our advertisers or contributors please remember to say where you found them and help us to support the community by keeping Let’s Go! free to all. Enjoy your summer holidays and we look forward to seeing you all again in the autumn.

More copies! More schools! More families! More response!

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With the summer holidays on the way parents everywhere are bracing themselves for the inevitable cries of “I’m bored!”

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don’t know about your house but in ours it usually takes less than a day for the moaning to start as the excitement of being off school for 6 weeks is overtaken by the reality of finding activities to fill that spare time with. During the school year, kids have constant structure but over the summer the day isn’t dictated by the school bell. Some kids thrive with free time, while others crave the daily routine that school provides. It’s important to find a sense of balance for kids so they can have a summer that is enjoyable as well as engaging.

It’s common these days for young people (especially those of a generation raised in front of a screen and not expected to do as many house chores) to find it difficult to engage themselves in positive activities. Many children are spending an unprecedented amount of time

with electronics, and less time with traditional creative discovery, such as crafts, role-playing and exploring the outdoors. Luckily, it isn’t that difficult to get kids engaged and excited about activities that teach and enrich, as well as amuse. As parents we maybe just need a little inspiration so we’ve compiled a list of simple activities we are going to try over the summer this year.

Keep kids active with sports they love - children need at least 60 minutes daily

exercise that gets their hearts pumping. Maybe half an hour of swimming, a cycle ride or just ball games in the garden. Exercise also makes them feel good and can help with concentration and sleep.

Le t ’ s Go! Wi r ral 5

Get your kids gardening Most kids

like getting dirty and poking around in the soil, and who doesn’t like to eat? This combination can be a winning one to introduce children to the benefits of gardening, which is said to be one of the world’s most popular hobbies. You don’t need to be a master gardener to show your kids how something wonderful can sprout from a small seed. Even if you don’t have much outdoor space you can plant a few flowers and beans or tomatoes in pots. Gardening is a great way to learn patience, as well as to explore nature, where our food comes from and how interconnected life is.

Take a trip with friends Many museums have free indoor activities for kids in the holidays, but if your child suspects it sounds a bit too much like ‘school work’, invite their mates along. It can be a social occasion for you and the other mums, too. Or you can take it in turns to lead the outings and give the other mums a break.

Check out the Summer Reading Challenge Most local libraries run an

informal ‘challenge’ during the school holidays to see how many books each child can read.

They don’t have to be difficult books, so it’s a fun way to keep your kids busy and there are often free events organised throughout the holidays.

Get your child to keep a diary Get

your child to create a summer diary or scrap book. Even if they just draw or stick tickets and postcards etc into a book, it gives them a fun, informal focus at the end of each day and it will also help to keep their writing and language skills fresh in the mind for when the new school year begins.

Explore nature together - You don’t have to travel to the ends of the Earth to find opportunities to get in touch with the millions of creatures living with us on the planet. Children are naturally curious and drawn to nature. But unless they grew up on a farm or rural area, they may not have had a lot of exposure to it.

They key is to educate and keep them safe, while 6 Le t’s Go ! Wi rral

also letting them discover the wonders of the world for themselves. Walking, scavenger hunts, camping, pond dipping and bird watching are just a few of the many ways to get out there and get in touch with nature.

Cook up a storm Cooking can be fun and educational with the added bonus of something scrummy to share with the family afterwards.

Cooking is a set of skills and knowledge that will serve your children for life, so it’s a good idea to start them young. Plus, if you get them to help out a little with preparing family meals, they will feel like they are contributing to the household and you can spend some quality time with them.

By learning how to prepare meals from scratch your little ones will be encouraged onto a path of healthier eating, hopefully for life.

Fly a kite

A basic kite can be cheap to buy or quick and easy to make and will provide hours of fun and exercise for kids and adults alike. The look of amazement on your child’s face when they get the kite airborne for the first time will make the effort worthwhile and create a memory that will last a lifetime for both of you.

Hopscotch

Use some chalk and make a hopscotch grid. Number the squares from one to nine. Pick a rock that is good for tossing.

Small ones can bounce too much, and larger ones are hard to throw. Start by tossing the rock onto Square 1. Hop over the rock and hop with a single foot or both feet according to the grid pattern all the way to the end. Turn around and come back, stopping on Square 2. Balancing on one foot, pick up the rock in Square 1 and hop over Square 1 to the start. Continue this pattern with Square 2. And so on. If you toss your rock and miss the correct square, your turn is over.

This game can be played with any number of people, but only one person can go at a time. If it’s raining or dark or too cold, you can get indoor hopscotch mats or foam pieces, or just find a pattern on the floor to follow, perhaps using a beanbag instead of a rock.

Visit www.wirralfamilyguide.co.uk for more great outdoor games for kids.

There’s a lot you can do at home to help your child prepare for their 11+ Children will benefit most from slow and steady preparation towards their 11+ exam. Where the exam consists of just one or two types of test it may only be necessary to begin tuition in the January of Year 5. As 11+ tests are taken in the autumn this gives eight months to prepare. Where the tests consist of more papers it may be necessary to start formal tuition at the beginning of year 5 although many parents are now choosing to begin formal tuition from the beginning of year 4 to provide a really solid foundation.

There’s a lot you can do at home to help prepare for the 11+ papers such as revision of times tables or basic adding/subtracting. Another is to play word grouping games such as ‘name 5 types of dog’ or ‘give me the opposite of’.

Above all stay calm. If you get stressed your child will get stressed. Resist pressuring them for working too slowly or criticising if they get questions wrong. This will have an adverse effect on confidence and results.

Stress Symptoms The 11plus exam paper can put your child under pressure. The talk in school will be about the test, ‘all’ of their friends might be trying to get to the same grammar school. Signs that your child

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Enjoy Limitless Learning Le t ’ s Go! Wi r ral 9

might be unduly stressed include sleeplessness, irritability, lack of appetite and being unusually tearful. Reassure them it is not about ‘passing’ or ‘failing’ but more about deciding which school they will be happier at.

Holidays: “to Work or not to work?”

Most parents feel that children should enjoy their holidays and the break from schooling, except for the summer holiday prior to the 11+. The tests take place in the early autumn and a six week break will leave your child’s head “nice and empty”. Most tutors agree that continuing to do some work on 11+ practise during the holidays is essential.

Healthy Diet

Avoid offering comforting snacks while preparing for the test. Brains work better on a diet of fruit, water and plenty of fresh air.

These can also ease the stress and pressure symptoms associated with exam preparation.

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The night before

A few simple guidelines will give your child the best chance of success. Play games or watch TV to reduce stress levels. A hot bath before bed will help with sleep, Ensure they eat some breakfast. Resist the temptation to go over the questions afterwards as what’s done is done.

Completing 11+ Practice Papers

Complete practice papers at 10 o’clock in the morning. This is the time your child will sit the actual 11+ test and will ensure they are practising when blood sugar levels are highest and they are most able to concentrate. Remove distractions in the house and give them a watch so that they can get used to timing themselves.

Once It’s All Over

Praise your child to the hilt! Tell them how proud you are of all their hard work, and reassure them that you love them regardless of results. Deliver on any incentives you agreed at the start.

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Headteacher: Ms Rebekah Phillips | Woodchurch High School | Carr Bridge Road, Wirral, CH49 7NG t: 0151 677 5257 | f: 0151 678 1906 | schooloffice@woodchurch-high.wirral.sch.uk | www.woodchurchhigh.com

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The start of year seven; the move to ‘big school’ can be an anxious time for parents. How will your children adapt? Will they be safe? Will they cope with the different lessons?

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hildren will have heard rumours of first day initiation ceremonies and worry about getting lost and having no friends. It is a milestone in every family’s journey. No longer at the school gate to meet other parents or their child’s class teacher, mums and dads can feel isolated. With five different teachers a day and sharing corridors with 17 and 18 year olds, children may feel anxious also but these major changes are exciting if a little daunting. We have compiled a list of top advice which may make the transition process a little easier for all. >>

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Le t ’ s Go! Wi r ral 1 3

one Check out the walking route or bus route and times and practise with a dummy run – perhaps once with you and once with you following in the car, or meeting them at the school two Early to bed the night before and

ensure they are on time each and every day punctuality and attendance matter, so get it right from the start.

three Ask to see your child’s ‘planner’ or

‘diary’ in it should be their daily time table and a layout of the school and a homework record.

Check what lessons they have each day. In the first weeks support them packing their bag accordingly each day and talk to them the night before about how to get to each lesson.

four Give them a special place for homework and a routine time to do it. They should do it sat at a table – not on the floor or in front of the TV!

five Listen for the names of new classmates

and encourage mixing and making new friends.

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six Try to find out about how your child

manages break times, lunchtimes and changes of lesson. These can often be the times that make them most anxious.

seven Make an appointment or telephone to speak to the class tutor, the head of year/ progress leader, or deputy head if you have a concern. Don’t leave it. eight Encourage your child to participate in

extra curricular activities after school or at lunch times. There should be something for everyone from homework club to computer club to dance!

nine Don’t pressurise them! It takes time

to settle in and get used to new routines and people. Be supportive and interested. Give lots of praise and reassurance. Ask open questions about their experiences….

ten Make sure they have a breakfast every

day of cereal, toast and juice. Research shows a good breakfast helps you learn. Chocolate and crisps from the sweetshop increase sugar levels and reduce learning rates.

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Le t ’ s Go! Wi r ral 1 5

Easy ways to help the bees at home

The future of native honey bees and bumble bees is in the balance.

More than a third of all colonies in England died over the winter, according to figures from the British Beekeepers Association.

In the south-west and in the northern part of the country almost half didn’t survive. “It is hugely important that we all take action now to help stop the decline” said a BBKA spokeswoman.

“Bees are a great addition to any garden, especially because they perform important roles in pollinating plants. About 30% of the food we eat has been pollinated by a bee!”

16 Let’s Go ! Wi rral

Provide a watering hole. To provide them with access to fresh water, add about a quarter inch of sand to a large saucer. Add water until a quarter inch of water rises above the sand. Place a few flat stones that rise above the water and others that just touch the surface. This will allow them to drink without drowning.

Include a significant variety of trees and shrubs in your garden. From spring to autumn, woody plants provide bees with valuable food resources. Some of our earliest blooming trees are blossoms like cherry, oaks, and willows, providing critical pollen and/or nectar when bees first emerge in the spring.

Avoid choosing double-flowered plants. Perennials and flowering woody plants are sometimes bred to have extra flower petals to make them showier, but, as these have little or no nectar and pollen, for the most part they are useless to bees. Select single-flowered plants, closest to their natural forms, to support bees and native wildlife.

Plan a succession of blooms from early spring to autumn. Bees require forage sources throughout their active seasons, which take place from March to October. Honey bees will emerge from their hives if the temperature reaches 55 degrees in February, so an early-blooming witch hazel or crocus in your garden would provide them with a much- needed meal.

Reduce or eliminate your lawn in favour of flowering plants. The typical, weed-free lawn is an ecological wasteland to bees and butterflies.

It demands high maintenance, and gives almost nothing back to the environment. Make your lawn more bee-friendly by avoiding pesticides and allowing clover and dandelions to grow as both are significant sources of nectar and pollen.

Eliminate synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides. Don’t spray before you know what the problem is—it may not be worth treating at all. A leaf cutter bee, which uses leaf material to create its nest, may have nibbled your rose bush. Tolerate some insect damage in your plants. Nature isn’t perfect, and your garden doesn’t have to be either.

A bee-friendly landscape is pesticide-free.

For more ideas on how to help our native bees visit www.wirralfamilyguide.co.uk/articles

Someone will pick it up, it’s no big deal...

You’re right, we did. But you picked up the bill. Picking up litter is costing you £12,000 every day.

www.wirral.gov.uk/bigdeal

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Litter is a big deal

Le t ’ s Go! Wi r ral 17

with Change4Life

It’s important for both kids and grownups to get moving every day, so why not do it by dancing? It’s brilliant fun and gets your heart beating that little bit faster. Plus it’s free and easy to do absolutely anywhere. So, warm up, get your dancing shoes on and get movin’!

Dance like Akai Change4Life has teamed up with Akai, winner of ‘Got to Dance’ and one of the stars of 3D film ALL STARS, to show you some of his coolest dance moves. He says: “My favourite thing about dancing is that it allows me to be free. It’s a feeling that I can’t get from any other activity.

1 8 Let’s Go ! Wi rral

e to some music: m ti in es v o m e es Try a few of th

I feel like I can do whatever I want to do”.

Why not check out Akai’s video on his dance feature at www. ttle d down a li wirralfamilyguide.co.uk follow ping up an m osened up ju lo t y e b g rt to ta s S g • le d n sa the moves, and see how you feel tomach, ke your arm ur arms, then your s a h S • afterwards? And if street dancing relax yo • Tense and isn’t for you, there are loads of other legs r then you fun dance styles to try, from rock ‘n’ roll to ballet!

From hip-hop to the Change4Life has also put together a foxtrot, dance fever is sweeping the range of dance tips and ideas to encourage you to dance and get the whole family inspired. nation, fuelled by popular TV shows There are plenty of activities, suggestions, and such as Strictly Come Dancing and simple dance games that can be enjoyed at Britain’s Got Talent. home. It’s all about getting everyone up and about and having fun. From body popping Dance is the UK’s fastest growing art form. for beginners, steps for the foxtrot, to simple More than 4.8 million people regularly attend dance steps and games, there are so many fun community dance groups each year in England and different ways to get up and active. alone. Whether you like to jump or jive, tap or tango, shake your belly or your booty, dancing Warming up for dance is one of the most enjoyable ways to get some Before you start dancing, you’ll need to warm exercise. up your muscles first, so you don’t hurt Regular dancing is great for losing weight, yourself. maintaining strong bones, improving posture

Le t ’ s Go! Wi r ral 19

and muscle strength, increasing balance and co-ordination and beating stress. One of the best things about dancing is that while you’re having fun moving to music and meeting new people, you’re getting all the health benefits of a good workout. This guide will help you get started in dancing, introduce you to some of the most popular dance styles taught in the UK and help you find a dance class in your area.

Before you start Most accredited dance schools hold beginners courses and welcome people with disabilities.

Schools are friendly and a great way to socialise. If you don’t want to go on your own, get a friend to go with you. Classes can cost as little as £3 to £10 for a 90-minute session.

If the first class you try falls short of your expectations, don’t be put off. It’s worth trying a few different classes until you find the right one for you.

Wear comfortable clothing that gives you freedom of movement and shoes appropriate

20 Le t’s Go ! Wi rral

to the dance style. Some classes, such as ballet, tap or jazz, may require specialist footwear depending on your level. Avoid wearing jewellery, such as earrings, rings and necklaces, which can scratch you or get caught in clothing.

Le t ’ s Go! Wi r ral 2 1

2 2 Le t’s Go ! Wi rral

After its successful launch in April www. wirralfamilyguide.co.uk is proving a popular destination for Wirral parents.

The site is an extension of your Let’s Go! magazine and features all the best articles, latest news, local information events, offers and competitions. It also features a directory of all the leading family oriented businesses in Wirral, with everything from party services, attractions, holiday clubs, home services, clubs & classes, childcare and more.

Plus we’ve also just added our fabulous new ‘Box Office’ – the convenient way to buy tickets for major North West family attractions (see overleaf for full details). We’ll also be bringing you some great competitions throughout the summer starting with the chance to win a fantastic fun workshop for your child’s classmates for the autumn term. All good reasons to check out the site and stay tuned in throughout the summer months.

Wirral Family Guide has teamed up with www. school-select.com to give away a fantastic educational show or workshop for your child and their classmates. School Select is the country’s leading online directory of school workshop providers with a huge variety of exciting educational shows, presentations, workshops and demonstrations. Choose a visit from a travelling minibeast zoo with creepy crawly bugs and spiders or a circus skills workshop with juggling and plate spinning. If you fancy something creative why not try a willow weaving, animation or graffiti workshop or perhaps you have an interest in music and

fancy trying your hand at African drumming or even the didgeridoo or harmonica.

If you can think of it we’ve probably got it.

Everything from cooking, skipping, dancing, mosaics, science, history, archaeology and much much more. To be in with a chance of winning this great prize just visit our competitions page at www.wirralfamilyguide.co.uk/ competitions/ click on our workshops link and simply tell us what type of workshop you would like to win for your class and why. We’ll be drawing one lucky winner over the summer to win the workshop of their choice for them and their classmates in the autumn term. Good luck!

Le t ’ s Go! Wi r ral 2 3

Are you planning for a few days away from Wirral with the family over the summer? Looking for inspiration on where to go and what to do? Prefer a one stop shop where you can do all this online and buy tickets at the click of a mouse?

Look no further! Wirral Family Guide ‘Box Office’ is now open for your convenience. Just visit www. wirralfamilyguide.co.uk/boxoffice/ Box Office is a ticketing portal featuring the leading big name attractions from across the North West. Find inspiration for new destinations or quick links to established family favourites. Whatever you are looking for you are sure to find it on Box Office.

Once you have found the perfect destination for your away day just click the link and order your tickets. It couldn’t be an easier or more convenient way to ensure the best day out for you and your family.

Instant Ticket Access We have a large number of attractions and events to which you can buy tickets, right

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there, online. All payments are securely processed and give you instant access to your tickets.

Search Easily for Attractions If you’re looking for something special to do, either on your own, as a group or with the family then you can easily find inspiration at Box Office and then book directly and instantly with the attraction.

Safe and Secure Payments Payments are processed via PayPoint Online Payments which gives you the highest security and peace of mind when purchasing tickets.

For details of how you can stop smoking call 0151 630 8383 Text QUIT with your name and postcode to 80039 or visit our website for details: www.wirralct.nhs.uk FagsforSwagAdvert.indd 1

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Fabulous Food with Integrity ...

Monthly Farmers’ Market Wirral Farmers' Market was established in 2000 and is held every second Saturday in New Ferry from 9.00am to 1.00pm.

Over 30 stalls • Farmers and artisan producers

Next markets: Saturday 13 July Saturday 10 August Saturday 14 September Saturday 12 October www.wirralfarmersmarket.co.uk

26 Le t’s Go ! Wi rral

one Use out-of-school days wisely.

We all know it’s cheaper to take the kids on holiday during term time and understandably, most schools won’t accommodate this.

However, if your child’s school will allow you to take them away for just a couple of days during term, try to tack these days onto a long weekend and secure a cheap family holiday in the UK. Without the overseas travel to worry about, you can cram a lot into those precious few days - and still avoid the pricey school holiday period.

homes’ for a couple of weeks. You post details of your location, the size of your property, and how many people your home accommodates.

Families overseas do the same, you come to swapping agreements between you, and no money changes hands. Then all you have to find are travel and spending costs. >>>

two

Go all inclusive. It’s worth booking your family holidays through a tour operator who specialises in all-inclusive holidays and / or activity holidays that can provide a much cheaper alternative to pay as you go. You’ll usually find good value package deals which let you relax while your kids are taken care of (and are tired out by the all-inclusive activity programmes!). All inclusive deals will usually include flights, accommodation, breakfast, dinner and sports equipment hire for all the family - so they can even work out cheaper than equivalent breaks in the UK when all costs are taken into consideration.

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Swap homes! There are now several companies that help families in different countries ‘swap Le Lett’ s’ s Go! Go! Wi Wirrral ral 2277

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Family & Friends Railcard + more savings on train tickets. If you’d like cheap family holidays in the UK, it’s well worth investing in a Family & Friends Railcard. You pay £28 for a card lasting one year - and then save one-third on adult train fares and an impressive 60% on children’s fares. Up to four adults and four kids can travel on a single card, so it can prove fantastic value for money.

five

National Trust Working Holidays.

National Trust Working Holidays make affordable UK breaks that the whole family can get involved in. They help people see new places and learn new skills, while helping with important conservation work and spending family time together. The ‘family’ option - from £255 for a short break - is perfect for parents with children aged between six and 16.

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Youth hostelling as a family. UK youth hostels are no longer the preserve of students and school parties. Many Youth Hostel Association (YHA) hostels now have clean, cheap and private family rooms on offer, in some of the most beautiful parts of the UK. For the largest selection of affordable hostels, Hostelbookers.com offers a lot of great deals throughout the year.

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Don’t be afraid to haggle. One of the most important travel tips for getting cheap family holidays is: Haggle. Many travel agents are struggling to compete with online firms, so use this to your advantage. Once you’ve found a family holiday you like the look of, try to get at least three quotes for the same package. Speak to both travel agents and online providers, and try to get each to beat the others’ prices. We know holiday companies are having a hard time at the moment - but when it comes to your family break, there’s no room for mercy! If you cannot haggle personally then at least have a good look at Laterooms.com and Lastminute.com for some great offers.

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Check exchange rates. It’s important to check the exchange rate of the country you’re travelling to, as well as to get the best deal on the holiday money you buy. The 2 8 Le t’s Go ! Wi rral

strength of the pound versus the destination currency can make a big difference to your overall costs, and could even make you change your mind about the country you want to visit.

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Free travel for kids. Many holiday operators offer free travel to kids below a certain age. Before you book, make sure you check what these age brackets are, as they can vary quite a lot. And again, it’s always worth haggling to see if you can get them to up the ‘free travel’ age limit to include slightly older children. It may well be worth their while if it means they can secure your whole family’s custom.

ten Swap your loyalty points for a holiday!

With loyalty schemes like Nectar and Tesco Clubcard, you can usually get much more for your points if you don’t spend them at the supermarket. For example, your points can be worth up to four times their regular value if you swap them for days out at UK theme parks, or for flights or ferry tickets abroad. So, it’s well worth storing up your points and visiting your loyalty scheme’s website to spend them on a family break.

If you have any smart ideas on how to save money on family holidays please email them to editor@letsgomagazine.co.uk and we will share them online for all to see at www.wirralfamilyguide.co.uk

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SWIMMING for all LESSONS ages available for non members Intensive swim courses and lifeguard cadet courses available too!

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bring in this advert for a

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T&Cs apply. Bring this advert with you.

This pass is not redeemable for cash.

Don’t forget a swim hat is required for pools, sweat towel for the gym and a padlock or lockers.

Le t ’ s Go! Wi r ral 2 9

Review

Boot Room Sports Cafe Cheshire Oaks 0151 906 1892 www.liverpoolfc.com/bootroom

18 months on from opening in 2012 the Boot Room Sports Café at Cheshire Oaks has gone from strength to strength and continues to establish itself as a leading family friendly restaurant.

T

he Boot Room is an extension of the brand established at Anfield Stadium

by Liverpool Football Club and as such guarantees a mix of quality dining, first class service and a relaxed atmosphere.

The restaurant can seat up to 230 and boasts a football theme with emphasis on Liverpool’s successful heritage. Club memorabilia, TV screens with live sports and activities to keep the kids amused create a stimulating and lively atmosphere. The Liverpool theme has been tastefully incorporated into what remains a very stylish and contemporary restaurant and despite its description as a sports café, they seem to have struck the right balance with the emphasis on dining rather than drinking.

The menu boasts a mix of European cuisine with everything prepared freshly on the premises from quality, locally sourced ingredients. A dedicated children’s menu (main course, dessert and soft drink £7,95) provides the kind of wholesome, home made food you would happily see them eating every day – no junk here! With each meal at the Boot Room representative of the Liverpool brand, there is added incentive to impress with food produced and presented to the best standards.

A ‘make your own pizza’ option was too tempting to resist for our five year old and she sprinkled ham, cheese and sweetcorn onto her fresh pizza dough. This left the way clear for our eldest to choose the pure ground beef burger with bacon and cheese which looked and

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tasted magnificent. Mum and I enjoyed starters of kofta kebab – spiced lamb, mint yoghurt, red onion and tomato salsa & pitta bread £5.45 and a delicious platter of Antipasto, including kalamato olives, salami, Parma ham, mozzarella, sun dried tomatoes, focacia, olive oil and sea salt £5.45.

An outdoor play area with its famous penalty simulator and table football area allowed the kids to let off some steam before dessert while mum and I continued with our main courses. I was hugely impressed with my 8oz prime rib eye steak served with tomato and mushrooms and side dish (house salad) £16.95. I also added a wonderful peppercorn sauce £1.95 and some chunky chips. My wife chose off the specials board with a seasonal offering of fresh asparagus, crisp pancetta, parmesan shavings, hollandaise sauce and garden salad £7.95.

A shared dessert of authentic New York cheesecake for the wife and I and two generously portioned ice cream factories for the kids blew the final whistle on another fine meal. The Boot Room restaurant is one we would highly recommend. It is an excellent venue which has everything you could want from a great family restaurant.

The Boot Room offers a range of 2 hour children’s parties including cheerleading, penalty shootout or activity party. Parties priced at £15 per head including the children’s menu meal deal. There are also children’s activity sessions planned throughout the summer to entertain the kids while you dine in comfort. Contact the restaurant for details.

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The restaurant guide with an appetite for success Since its launch last year, the Let’s Eat! restaurant review website www.lets-eat-wirral.co.uk has gone from strength to strength.

T

he website which is fully searchable by cuisine and area and a host of other search criteria, houses a detailed profile of every Wirral restaurant and is proving a huge hit with a growing number of local diners and restaurateurs alike. With over 30,000 enquiries in its first few months online the site has exceeded expectations and plans are in place to expand the service further throughout 2013.

Let’s Eat! is a quick and easy way of locating family friendly restaurants for everyday dining or special occasions. The website is the perfect one stop shop if you are looking to find the right restaurant for your specific needs. Users can read reviews, view menus, images, visit

websites and check out facilities online and best of all it’s absolutely free to use. Looking for al fresco dining?.... Baby changing facilities?...

High Chairs? …Child Menu? …Disabled Access? ..Indoor or Outdoor Play? ….It’s all there at the click of a mouse. Try it today!

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Children who keep dogs are healthier and more emotionally balanced, experts have found. The majority of youngsters regard their dog as a playmate and friend who can be a source of comfort when they feel sad. And exposure to dogs and some other pets in the first year of life makes them less likely to suffer allergies; reducing their chances of getting hay fever or an allergic reaction to house dust mites by 75 per cent.

Recent research of children with dogs found that 85 per cent said they regard their dog as a friend and 40 per cent said they would look for their pet if they were bored or upset. Dog ownership has many benefits for children.

They learn nurturing skills and are rewarded for their efforts with unconditional love. U.S. studies have suggested that children with dogs fare better at school because they are more motivated.

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Top 5 benefits of children owning dogs Dogs help parents teach responsibility.

A family dog depends on his owners for his care--especially city dogs that are usually always under human supervision. Children often beg for pets--and pet ownership offers an excellent opportunity to teach children a number of responsible life skills. Once a child is old enough, the tasks related to dog ownership are suitable child duties that teach practical responsibility.

Dogs serve as loyal protectors. While some dogs are certainly more loyal or brave than others, dog owners often discover that the family dog is especially protective of the children in the house. Dogs give children, and parents, extra peace of mind and a feeling of security.

Dogs help children develop socially and intellectually. A loyal, family dog is always

ready to listen and interact positively and socially with his family. Shy or socially withdrawn children can learn a lot about proper social behavior through interactions with family pets. Dogs offer a sympathetic, non-judgmental ear, ready to listen to the day’s problems.

Dogs provide emotional support and love.

A happy dog will meet your children at the door daily with a wagging tail and ready to play, sniff, and love no matter what. After a tough day at school your child will welcome their dog’s greeting.

Dogs offer health benefits for children.

Research has shown that newborns exposed to dogs and cats at an early age are less likely to suffer from allergies later in life. Children who own dogs have more opportunities for active play and physical activity. Medical conditions, such as depression and heart disease, affect children as well as adults and the adult health benefits of pet ownership apply to children also.

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Wirral Children’s Centres Giving young families the best possible start

Wirral’s 16 Children’s Centres are all open to anyone – mums, dads, grandparents, carers and child minders.

There are also special sessions for dads and children – but dads are welcome to any sessions, any time, as well as dedicated session for parents who are under 25.

Each one hosts a range of fun activities for children and adults to enjoy, including: • sing-alongs • messy play • arts and crafts • football for toddlers ...and much more! There is something for everyone.

Children’s Centres also offer advice, help and support with parenting, breast feeding, financial advice, baby and child health and building confidence.

To find out what’s available at YOUR local Children’s Centre visit wirral.gov.uk/cc or call 0800 085 8743

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301JUN13JH

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Free childcare for 2-4 year olds Do you have a 2 year old? Did you know that you may be eligible to receive 15 hours FREE childcare for your two year old?

Research shows that alongside parenting, high quality part time Early Years Education helps give children of this age a great start and it provides them with a solid foundation for the future. Your 2 year old will be naturally inquisitive and very keen to explore the world around them. By spending time in a Nursery (or other childcare) they will have the opportunity to play and mix with children their own age, plus they will have lots of fun!

Your child can use the FREE 15 hours in a Day Nursery or a Pre- School or a Children’s Centre Nursery or with a Network Childminder. If eligible your child can access the funding the term after his / her 2nd birthday.

If you receive certain benefits you may be eligible: • Have an income of no more than £16, 190 and claiming working tax credits • Receive child tax credits with an income no more than £16, 190 • Claim income support • Claim income based job seekers allowance • Claim income related Employment and Support Allowance • Child has been statemented • You receive support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act (1999) • If you (or any member of your family) receives Disability Living Allowance (DLA)/ Personal Independent Payment (PIP) If your child is a looked after child (LAC) or has left care through special guardianship or an adoption or residence order, he or she will automatically qualify to receive 2 year old funding To apply for 2 Year Old Funding please contact your local Children’s Centre, your Health Visitor or any other professional who is working with

your family. They will complete an application on your behalf.

Free childcare for 3 & 4 year olds!

All 3 and 4 year olds in Wirral are entitled to claim 15 hours FREE. You don’t have to be on any income related benefits. The free entitlement is part of the Early Years Foundation Stage for children aged 0 to 5 years.

Your child will learn through active, playbased opportunities in a caring environment.

Learning will focus on: personal, social and emotional development; communication, language and literacy; problem solving, reasoning and numeracy; knowledge and understanding of the world; physical development and creative developments. It has been proven that a rich and stimulating start to early education is a lifelong benefit that helps children to fulfil their potential.

Your child can use the FREE 15 hours in a Day Nursery or a Pre- School or a Children’s Centre Nursery or with a Network Childminder or in an independent school or in a School Nursery.

Your child can access the funding the term after his / her 3rd birthday.

To apply for 3 and 4 Year Old Funding please contact your chosen childcare provider, you will need to complete some paperwork.

For further information on 2, 3 and 4 year old Funding and help in finding childcare please see www.wirral.gov.uk/FIS or contact the Families Information Service (FIS) on 0800 0858 743 or you can email fis@wirral.gov.uk Le t ’ s Go! Wi r ral 41

Having a baby is a wonderful experience for all the obvious reasons. Thankfully there many more advantages to having a baby than that.

wrapped up nice and warm it doesn’t matter and make sure you take lots of photos so you can carry on teasing them when they’re older too.

You now have a ready made excuse to opt out of any social event you don’t fancy going to. Just follow this simple formula and say….. ‘I’m so sorry we can’t come to your (enter function here) but the baby’s (choose one of the following) (not himself) (being a bit clingy) (a bit off his food) and I wouldn’t be happy leaving him.’ Once you’ve secured your night in, pop in the DVD, uncork a bottle and relax.

You can carry all your stuff around on a buggy One of the great things about babies is that you put them in a buggy. This is brilliant because you can chuck in the rest of your possessions. Basically you won’t have to carry anything for years to come. You’ll keep it going for years, taking it on outings when your child’s five-years-old ‘just in case they get a bit tired.’ Whatever you do, don’t be palmed off with one of those baby slings – you’ll end up having your carry your baby and your stuff.

Baby can fulfil your ambitions for you You’ve done your bit by producing the next generation – now it’s their responsibility to live out your dreams for you! Dreams like becoming a professional footballer or the winner of X Factor. Obviously, you’ll have to help things along by buying a football or investing in a few singing lessons for your offspring, but it’s up to them now. Put your feet up and wait for them to make you proud.

Dress them in ridiculous costumes for hours of fun One of the best things about babies is that you can dress them up how you like and they won’t mind.

Start with something simple like ‘bubble hair’ when they’re in the bath. Move on to geek chic glasses and matching hats or even lederhosen or Welsh national costume. So long as they’re

Your collection of original artwork will grow and grow Toddlers are prolific artists who can create a masterpiece from any old materials. You will have to display everything in a prominent position and will never be able to dispose of anything. You will never need to buy any form of wall art again although you may need a bigger house to display it all.

So much free chocolate! It’s crazy but people really do give very small children huge amounts of chocolate for Easter, birthdays and Christmas. We all know how important it is for youngsters to get their 5 a day and to save chocolate as an occasional treat, so as a good parent, it’s up to you to stash it out of sight where your child forgets all about it, leaving you free to eat the rest.

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When choosing any form of childcare, don’t rush into things. Take your time and do your research for the best results.

There are many excellent nurseries out there but you want to get the one that’s just right for you and your child.

A

day nursery is normally a privately run nursery for children aged three months to five years. However there are also local authority nurseries and community nurseries.

A day nursery is run for childcare purposes, but normally follows a curriculum for the 3-5 year olds. Normal hours are from 8am to 6pm all year round except for public holidays. A nursery school tends to operate during term time and only takes children from 3- 5 years. Nurseries must adhere to strict ratios of staff to children, as well as guidelines and curriculum set down by the Government.

With nurseries, timing is crucial. The best nurseries will get booked up as much as a year in advance so make sure that you don’t leave it until the last minute. Nurseries range in size from 10 to 100+ places. Large nurseries are not a bad thing as they tend to have better facilities – just enquire how the rooms and ages of the children within the nursery are broken down as you would expect appropriate numbers for room size.

The best way to research is to a) contact your 5 0 Le t’s Go ! Wi rral

local Children’s Information Service and ask for a list of nurseries in your area; b) ask parents in the area if they can recommend any nurseries or get a short list of recommended nurseries by asking the office staff at your local schools. Narrow your list down and start phoning around to book a visit. First impressions count, so when you first arrive, what are your thoughts? Is it in a good state of repair? Is it secure? A visit won’t tell you everything but you will see what the layout looks like, how happy the children are and how friendly the staff are. You should ask as many questions as you can to help you make your decision.

1. How many children do they have on role and what is the maximum intake?

2. Do they provide all meals? If so, where is it prepared and can you see a sample menu?

3. If you have a baby, then you need to specifically check the following: Do you need to bring your own nappies and formula? Where do the babies sleep during the day? How much fresh air do the babies get each day? How are the babies transported outside of the nursery?

How much time if any do the babies spend in the company of older children?

4. Ask to see a copy of their latest OFSTED report.

5. Ask about security and people entering the building?

6. Do they take childcare vouchers and offer subsidised places for 3 yr olds?

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In Wirral we have a fantastic choice of nurseries that really go the extra mile to cater for their children’s’ developmental need. As well as achieving their targets in the early years foundation stage framework, many nurseries also offer ‘extra curricular’ hobbies and activities too and with free nursery places available to all 3 and 4 year olds and some 2 year olds this means more children than ever are benefiting from these excellent classes.

Children’s Yoga – forget about being a double jointed contortionist or meditating for hours on end, children’s yoga teaches the wonderful art of relaxation to a child by using fun games, stories, visualisation and songs. Children’s yoga classes are a wonderful way to increase children’s co-ordination, self-awareness, confidence and self esteem while they stretch and strengthen their bodies. Using yoga, children can learn to relax, concentrate and be gentle in a fun and creative environment. >>

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Makaton or Sign Language - Makaton is a simple language programme based on a list of simple everyday words. It helps teach communication, language and literacy skills. It supports children to understand language as each concept has a visual clue or sign and teaches them to express themselves. As well as language, it develops communication skills, social interaction, relationship building and understanding.

Organised Sports - Young children love to participate in fun physical activity and an organised sports lesson allows them to develop a range of skills. A terrific variety of activities are taught ranging from toddler football, gymnastics, rugby, martial arts and many other physical activities. Usually delivered by qualified coaches sports provide children with the essential skills required to enjoy a lifetime of physical activity and yield benefits such as improved social skills, reduced child obesity & development of motor skills.

Dance & Movement – physical activities like this offer a fun and exciting way for children to discover their capabilities and boundaries. It can

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also help with simple motor skills like balance, catching, skipping, jumping and turning.

Language – for years it was thought that teaching a second language to a child would cause confusion and interfere with their ability to learn a first language. Now the perceived wisdom is that child’s brain is programmed to learn language at an early age and is most receptive in the first four years.

Gardening / Allotment – As well as having fun with trowels, forks and watering cans, tending to growing seeds and nurturing plants and vegetables is great way to make children food aware. It’s a highly effective way to teach ‘from field to fork’ and encourage less fussy eating at meal times. There are many opportunities for children to investigate by using touch, smell and taste to aid their understanding of their surroundings. Activities such as smelling herbs and rubbing them between their hands to understand the different aromas and digging up vegetables for use in the kitchen all offer benefits to a child’s personal, social and emotional development and confidence building.

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JULY Sat 6th & Sun 14th - Wirral Festival of Firsts 2pm -4pm, Community Arts festival showcasing the best local and national talent in theatre, music, art and poetry. www.festivaloffirsts.com Sat 6th - Calday Grange Grammar School Summer Fete Bric-a-brac, cakes, books,games,dog show, stalls, BBQ, bouncy castle and much more. www.cggsco.co.uk Sat 6th- Family Art Club at Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool FREE 11am–3.30pm Family Art Club for children 7-12 yrs – we’ll help you explore the Gallery and get hands on in this interactive way.

To book call 0151 478 4171 Sun 7th - Up Hill and Down Dale. Enjoy a Ranger led walk over Heswall Dales, taking in the river Dee and the Dungeons Meet at Heswall Dales/ Dale Farm entrance off Oldfield Road, Heswall 10.30am - 12.30pm. Sorry no dogs. 0151 677 7594 Sun 7th - Charity Cricket Tea 2-6pm in the grounds behind the Gladstone Village Hall (Dunstan Lane, Burton, CH64 5TH). Charity cricket match in aid of the Roy Castle Lung Cancer and Marie Curie Charity. Even if you don’t appreciate cricket- come down with friends for an afternoon tea!! Details & menu www. cricketteas.co.uk

Sun 7th - Superhero and Villains Fun Run in aid of Wirral Hospice St Johns at Birkenhead Park 9am - 12am www.wirralhospice.org Sun 7th- Sea Life on the North Wirral Coast 1-2pm, Leasowe Bay. Free event, booking is essential. - 0151 648 4371 Wed 10th - Arts in the Park at Birkenhead Park - 10.30am - 1pm. Showcases schools across the Wirral performing music and Drama.

Sat 13th - The Blue Lights Horse Show Family fun day 10am – 4pm. Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, Aintree International Indoor Arena, Liverpool www.bluelighthorseoftheyearshow. co.uk. see page 61 Sat 13th- Craft Fair at Hoylake Community Centre, Hoyle Road, CH47 3AG Handmade jewellery, knitted items, hand-crafted wood, cards, needlecraft, candles, art and soap for you to buy.

Sat 13th- Wirral’s Got Talent Finale show Westbourne Hall, West Kirby. 7:30pm www. wirralcommunitytheatre.co.uk Sat 13th - Singing Group appearing at Hoylake Lifeboat Museum from 2.30pm. www. hoylakelifeboatmuseum.com

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Sat 13th - Wirral Farmers Market 9am - 1pm at New Ferry Village Hall, Grove Street, New Ferry Mon 14th -Illyria Theatre Presents Babe the Sheep-Pig at Ness Botanic Gardens 6-10pm, Dick King-Smith’s heart-warming tale of friendship, courage and determination, see page 83.

Sat 20th - Merseyside Scouts present Taste of Network at Tawd Vale 9am FREE. Come and enjoy a range of activities, including water activities and leane what Network is all about.

Lunch provided. www.merseysidescouts.co.uk Sat 20th - Brimstage Maize Maze Opens!

The maize maze will be open daily until 2nd Sep then weekends for the rest of September www.brimstagemaze.co.uk see page 79 Sat 20th – Wednesday Special Needs Club Summer Fair 11am-2pm at Hoylake Community Centre, Hoyle Road, CH47 3AG Fairground rides, games, soft play, BBQ, refreshments, raffle, tombola and more. All proceeds go towards our Soft Play Sensory Resource www.wsnc.co.uk Sun 21st – Race for life - Birkenhead Park www. raceforlife.org.uk

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Sun 21st Hoylake Allotment Association Open Day 12-4pm. Come and see our new Community Plot and have a look around the site. Something for all ages. Plants, herbs and vegetables. Cakes and jam sale. Bee keeping. Childrens activities.

Quiz. Refreshments Sun 21st - Historic Vehicle Rally. A cavalcade of up to 100 vintage and classic vehicles journey through the countryside and villages of Wirral starting in New Brighton and finishing at Thornton Hough. FREE www. wirralclassiccarclub.co.uk/ Mon 22nd – Miss Giggles at the Floral. See page 80 Mon 22nd – Fri 23rd Aug – Joytime Children’s Talent Show. The popular children’s talent Show – JOYTIME returns to Vale Park, New Brighton. The shows run Monday to Friday 2–5pm for five weeks. So bring the children down for some traditional seaside entertainment and grab a fabulous home made ice cream or afternoon tea from Vale House Café, see page 33.

Thurs 25th - A guided Walk looking for Bats at Birkenhead Park. 9-10.30pm £2, suitable for accompanied children over 8 Thurs 25th - Grey Skies & Redshanks. Autumn through winter on the Dee estuary as seen by one of Wirral’s Coastal Rangers. 8pm Kingsmead School Hall, Bertram Drive, Hoylake CH47 0LL Wirral Bird Club. Non-members welcome - £4 (includes light refreshments) wirralbirdclub.com Fri 26th - Hoylake Lifeboat Museum presents a Summer Concert at Melrose Hall, Hoylake.7.30pm. www.hotlakelifeboatmuseum.com Sat 27th - The Waste & Recycling Wonder Open Day. Bidston Recycling Park, Birkenhead -10am – 2pm www.veolia.co.uk see page 74 Sat 27th – West Kirby Farmers’ Market in St Andrew’s Church Hall, Graham Rd, West Kirby CH48 5DE. 9am-1pm Local producers selling their own quality artisan foods. www.westkirbyfarmersmarket.co.uk Sun 28th - Bumble Bee Workshop and Walk 10.30am-3.30pm. Join the Ranger on this Bumble Bee workshop in the morning then on a walk to identify the different Bumble Bees. Meet at the Courtyard/Coach House at Royden Park.Sorry no dogs. 0151 677 7594

Sun 28th - Art in the Park, Coronation Gardens, West Kirby 12noon-4pm Art from local artists/craftspeople on display in the alcoves at Coronation Gardens and all for sale.

Sun 28th -The 2nd Great Arno Doggy Treasure Hunt & Fun Day 11am - 5pm - FREE. Dog Show, agility course, bouncy castle, face painting, teddy bear making & more. www.friendsofthearno. btck.co.uk Sun 28th - Off The Ground Theatre presents ‘the comedy of Errors’ by William Shakespeare at Birkenhead Park. 2.30pm tickets phone 0151 625 2929 or go to www.offtheground.co.uk Mon 29th - Miss Giggles at the Floral. See page 80 Tues 30th -Children’s fun day at Ness Botanic Gardens, 10am - 4pm - A day for all the family, pony rides, falcon display, crafts, painting & colouring, family trail, story time & circus tricks, see page 83..

Tues 30th -Fun Scavenger Hunt at Royden Park 1.30-3pm. Meet at the Coach House/Courtyard for this summer’s children’s event and enjoy a fun scavenger hunt. Outdoor clothing and footwear needed. midwirralrangers@wirral.gov. uk 0151 677 7594

Open Day

Ever wondered what your household waste can be turned into?

Bidston Recycling Park Wallasey Bridge Road Birkenhead CH41 1EB

Saturday 27 July, 10am-2pm Have you ever wondered what happens to your paper, cans, plastic bottles, cardboard and glass when they have been collected for recycling? Come along and discover all these things and more at our ‘waste & recycling wonder’ open day.

For more information:

0203 567 42oo

www.veolia.co.uk/ merseyside-and-halton

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AUGUST Thurs 1st - Dragons & Knights hands on Activity at Lady Lever Art Gallery. 1-4pm FREE. Make a colourful stained glass style light catcher in this fun family workshop Fri 2nd & Sat 3rd Off The Ground Theatre presents ‘The Comedy of Errors’ by William Shakespeare at Ness Botanic Gardens. For tickets see page 81 Sat 3rd -Cross the sands to Hilbre Island where the RSPB will be serving tea and cakes and staffing the bird hide overlooking ‘Niffy Bay’.

12-4pm Booking essential 648 4371 Sat 3rd - Family Art Club at Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool FREE 11am–3.30pm Family Art Club for children 7-12 yrs – we’ll help you explore the Gallery and get hands on in this interactive way.

To book call 0151 478 4171 Sun 4th -Up Hill and Down Dale Enjoy a Ranger led walk over Heswall Dales, taking in the river Dee and the Dungeons Meet at Heswall Dales/ Dale Farm entrance off Oldfield Road, Heswall (CH60 6SN). 10.30am - 12.30pm. Sorry no dogs.

0151 677 7594

Sun 4th -Summer Fun at Royden Park. Loads of activities in this fun filled day for all the family.

10.30am-3pm on the main events field at Royden Park.midwirralrangers@wirral.gov.uk 0151 677 7594 Sun 4th - Fairytale Forest at Church Farm. See page 71 Mon 5th -Beady Beady for Boys and Girls £4.50 at Gordale. Fun interactive workshop, where you will make fantastic jewellery including some easy pieces and a huge choice of beads and charms. 0151 336 2116 see page 91 Mon 5th & Tues 6th Learn about the beauty of African flowers and make a beautiful bloom to take home at the International Slavery Museum, Liverpool 1-4pm, drop in - no booking required.

Mon 5th - Miss Giggles at the Floral. See page 80 Thurs 1st - Sun 4th -Disney Live! Mickey’s Rockin’Road Show at Liverpool Echo Arena. Hit the road with Mickey Mouse and your favourite Disney friends, see page 75 Tues 6th -I-Spy Fun at Royden Park 1.30-3pm Collect your clues from the Coach House/ Courtyard at Royden Park. Outdoor clothing and footwear needed midwirralrangers@wirral.gov. uk 0151 677 7594

5th July – 25th August Grosvenor Park, Chester www.grosvenorparkopenairtheatre.co.uk 6 2 Le t’s Go ! Wi rral

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Wed 7th-Wirral Play Day 11am-4pm Loads of activities on offer all day for children aged 6 - 14.

All are welcome - opposite the visitor’s centre pavilion. www.wirralplaycouncil.org.uk Sat 10th - Wirral Farmers Market 9am - 1pm at New Ferry Village Hall, Grove Street, New Ferry Sat 10th - Gardening for families 11am-1pm at Edward Kemp Garden, Birkenhead Park.

Sun 11th - Flower & Veg Show at Birkenhead Park 12pm Various stalls, kids events and birds of prey display.

Sun 11th - Fruit Picking Workshop 2-4pm New Ferry Butterfly Park. Come and see what grows at the park and collect some fruit and other edibles. Stout footwear and waterproofs recommended, the Park is next to Bebington Train Station www.wirralwildlife.co.uk Mon 12th - Miss Giggles at the Floral. See page 80 Tues 13th & Wed 14th The Gruffalo’s Child at the Floral Pavilion, New Brighton, see page 80 Wed 14th & Thurs 15th - Enchanted Kingdoms at Lady Lever Art Gallery. 1-4pm FREE Join us in the garden for magical arts & crafts. Paint enchanting pictures, blow bubbles and search for fairies and horses!

OPEN.00PM

Sat 17th - Summer Festival at Vale Park, New Brighton Sat 17th - Cross the sands to Hilbre Island where the RSPB will be serving tea and cakes and staffing the bird hide overlooking ‘Niffy Bay’. 124pm Booking essential 648 4371 Sun 18th Fairytale Forest at Church Farm. See p71 Sun 18th - Egremont Festival 9am-5pm Come and enjoy family fun, entertainment, stalls and side shows, and see what Egremont has to offer!

Tobin Street, Egremont, CH44 8DF. 0151 691 1871 Mon 19th - Beady Beady for Boys and Girls £4.50 at Gordale. Fun interactive workshop, where you will make fantastic jewellery including some easy pieces and a huge choice of beads and charms. 0151 336 2116 see page 91 Mon 19th - Miss Giggles at the Floral. See page 80 Tues 20th - The Secret Gardens Hands on Activity at Lady Lever Arts Gallery 1-4pm FREE. Create colourful flowers and garden creatures using collage materials.

Wed 21st -Teddy Bear’s Picnic at the Lady Lever Arts Gallery. 1-4pm FREE. Come down with your favourite teddy bear and join the terrific Teddy Bear’s picnic!

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Sat 24th, Sun 25th & Mon 26th MEGA SALE at Kitchenware Express, Wirral International Business Park, Bromborough. See page 39 Sun 25th Fairytale Forest at Church Farm. See page 71 Mon 26th Hoylake R.N.L.I Open Day. Fantastic family friendly event with air displays, a funfair, charity stalls, street theatre, raffles, and tours of the Lifeboat. FREE. Hoylake Lifeboat Station, North Parade, Hoylake, CH47 2AL. 0151 632 2103 Tues 27th Super Snakes hands on activity at Lady Lever Art Gallery - 1-4pm FREE - Make a spiralling snake to take home.

Tues 27th & Wed 28th A seaside celebration!

Enjoy storytelling and special arts and crafts inspired by summer at the seaside.1-4pm Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool.

Wed 28th Chirpy Birds hands on activity at Lady Lever Art Gallery – 1-4pm FREE. Create a cute little tweety bird at our fun workshop Wed 28th – Fri 30th Frank Hornby 150 - Exciting demonstrations, talks, building and lots of fun for all the family. FREE Museum of Liverpool. www. liverpoolmuseums.org.uk

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Thurs 29th Knights of the Art Table hands on activity at Lady Lever Arts Gallery. 1 4pm FREE Make a helmet and become a knight of the realm!

Fri 30th Claire House Family Fun Day at Wirral Rugby Club, Thornton Common Road, Clatterbridge, CH63 0LT. 10am-3pm Fri 30th Medieval Herbs & Remedies. Learn more about the doctrine of signatures, the properties of herbs and some of the folklore associated with these plants. 2-3pm Grosvenor Museum, Chester

SEPTEMBER Sun 1st Postman Pat at the Floral, see page 80.

Mon 2nd - Miss Giggles at the Floral, See page 80 Sat 14th - Wirral Farmers Market 9am - 1pm at New Ferry Village Hall, Grove Street, New Ferry Sat 14th & Sun 15th Festival of Transport at Birkenhead Park from 10am www. bheadtransportfest.com Visit www.wirralfamilyguide.co.uk for more events, plus lots more...

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R EADER COMP E T I T IONS Chester Performs has announced that it has made all its children’s tickets free for their unique and magical summer arts programme of outdoor film, theatre and fun!

The company are behind the acclaimed Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre, a glorious picnic theatre season taking place this year from 5th July 25th August and for the first time, have announced that all under 12s go free when accompanied by an adult.

This year, the unique theatre is producing three plays –A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Othello and the hilarious Cyrano de Bergerac. There’s something for everyone, so, pack up your picnics and bring all the family down to the park this summer.

If theatre’s not your thing, why not head to Moonlight Flicks – a magical moonlit movie season in Chester’s enchanting Roman Gardens. Or, come on down the amphitheatre for free family fun every Saturday afternoon in July and August. -With games, workshops and activities for all the family, simply drop by anytime from 12-4.

Visit www.chesterperforms.com to see the full programme Let’s Go! are pleased to have a family ticket to give away as a prize.

Chewie the Chewitsaurus understands the importance of keeping fit and healthy, and loves nothing more than seeing youngsters discover how fun and exciting an active lifestyle can be.

Chewits Sports Courses bring together fun, trust and exercise, with over 21 different sports including cheerleading and street dance. These energy busting courses run throughout July & August. There’s over 100 UK locations getting more than 180,000 kids (aged 5-11) excited about sport. For more details see the main advert opposite.

With prices starting from just £9.95 per day, courses are designed to give children of ALL abilities the opportunity to enjoy being active.

Each day is packed with fun – fun sport, fun break-times, fun games – all delivered by inspiring coaching staff who have undergone rigorous training to ensure every child is safe, happy and looked after.

The sponsorship is supported by sporting ambassadors such as Lawrence Dallaglio, Duncan Goodhew and Paul Sculthorpe.

Let’s Go! are pleased to have a free place on a course to give away to one lucky reader.

To be in with a chance of winning either of these fantastic prizes just send your name and contact number to chesterperforms@letsgopublishing.co.uk or premiersports@letsgopublishing.co.uk. Usual competition rules apply competition closes at midnight on July 21st.

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70 Let’s Go ! Wi rral

For the first time in 30 years Royal Mail is running an amazing national art competition for primary school pupils to design stamps for Christmas.

Winning designs from two children will feature on 1st or 2nd Class Christmas Stamps in November of this year.

The competition theme is ‘What does the Christmas season mean to you?’

Children can design an image that best describes their take on the festive period. This is a prize that money cannot buy, and will be a huge honour for the winners and their schools. The winning designs will be approved by Her Majesty the Queen, and used on millions of Christmas cards during the Christmas holidays.

There are 60 prizes for both the 4 – 7 and 8 – 11 years age categories. Overall winners will receive £1,000 in vouchers for themselves, and £1,000 for their school. Area winners and schools will each receive £500, and area runners up will receive £100 for themselves and their schools. All children in the UK aged 4 to 11 can take part as can children aged 12 years who are in the final year of primary school. The competition is open to individuals, primary schools, Children’s Centres, nurseries and other groups.

To enter the competition visit www.ichild.co.uk/royalmailchristmasstampdesigncompetition Or follow the link from the Wirral Family Guide website.

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Summer Reading Challenge Because everything changes when we read Reading for pleasure is more important to children’s successes than education or social class. The Summer Reading Challenge gets three quarters of a million children into libraries to keep up their reading skills and confidence during the long holidays while Chatterbooks reading groups help build a lifelong reading habit.

Children’s reading can ‘dip’ during the long summer holidays. The annual Summer Reading Challenge helps gets three quarters of a million children into libraries to keep up their reading skills and confidence.

Get involved!

• If you’re a parent or carer do join us on our Facebook page for all the latest news • Children can chat, get reading recommendations and enter competitions on our Summer Reading Challenge website • If you’re a teacher take a look at our resources to help you support children’s reading for pleasure

The Summer Reading Challenge encourages children aged 4 to 11 to read six books during the long summer holiday.

There is a different theme each year. Children can read whatever they like - fact books, joke books, picture books, audio books - just as long as they are borrowed from the library.

Every time your child finishes a book they get stickers and rewards and there’s a certificate for everyone that finishes.

The Summer Reading Challenge is open to all children and is designed for all reading abilities.

Schools work with local libraries and give out information to encourage children to take part. The theme for the 2013 Summer Reading Challenge is Creepy House.

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• Head to your local library at the beginning of the summer holidays and enroll. It’s completely free and anybody can take part.

• Summer Reading Challenge facts • Research shows that taking part in the Summer Reading Challenge can help children keep up their reading skills during the long summer holiday • Last year 780,000 children took part in the Summer Reading Challenge.

SADDLE UP!

For This Summer’s Greatest Emergency Services Open Day

Bring the whole family along to a fantastic FREE family fun day...

SHOWS:

• Showjumping • Team Showjumping

ACTIVITIES:

Food and drink, Market Stalls, Face Painting, Blue Light vehicles, Funfair rides and Mini farm.

Saturday 13th July 10am - 4pm

FR NO

EE

TIC

KET

EV

RE

QU

EN

Aintree International Equestrian Centre, Aintree Racecourse, Ormskirk Road, Aintree L9 5AS

IRE

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Supported by

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Family adventure, for only a tenner Why not take the family on a bit of an adventure, with a great value Family Ticket from Merseyrail.

There’s so much to see and do across our network that you won’t be able to fit it all into just one day!

www.merseyrail.org/summerfun

ALL ZONE FAMILY TICKET £10.00 (2 Adults and 3 children for unlimited off peak travel across the Merseyrail network).

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

WWW.ECHOARENA.COM | BOX OFFICE: 0844 8000 400

FOR FULL LISTINGS VISIT WWW.ECHOARENA.COM

© Disney / Pixar

KUGB Presents

The World Shotokan Karate Championships 28 - 29 September £25.00 - £40.00*

1 - 4 August £18.00 - £30.00*

Lawson 5 October £19.00*

13 October

Adult £13.50 Child £11.50*

Jesus Christ Superstar Starring Tim Minchin,

SuperEnduro Grand Prix 17 November

Melanie C, Chris Moyles and Ben Forster

15 October £30.00 - £65.00*

Adult £20.00 - £30.00 Child £10.00 - £20.00 Family £50.00 - £90.00*

Boyzone 20th Anniversary Tour 8 December £35.50*

4 December £23.50 - £33.50*

Goodbye: The Greatest Hits Tour

9 December £25.00 - £33.50*

Union J 6 January 2014 £22.50 / £27.50*

LIKE US: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ECHOARENA | FOLLOW US: TWITTER.COM/ECHOARENA

...NOW THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT! *Online or telephone orders may be subject to a per ticket booking fee ranging from £1.50 - £10.00 dependent on ticket price. In addition tickets may be subject to a £2.25 per order handling fee. Cash purchases at TicketQuarter Queen Square Liverpool or the Echo Arena Box Office do not incur a booking fee. The Echo Arena Box Office opens from 12pm on event days only.

260_GetOutGetActive_LetsGoAd:Layout 1 18/06/2013 14:27 Page 1

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76 Let’s Go ! Wi rral

Summer time brings lots of strolls in the park, visiting Zoos and festivals, and (hopefully) some hot weather, all of which can pose a danger to your child. We’re bringing you some handy tips on how to keep your child safe whilst still enjoying all the joys of summer!

Don’t forget the sun cream

Children love to play outside when the weather warms up but it’s easy to forget that they have more sensitive skin than adults and burn much more easily.

Apply sun cream at least 20 minutes before playtime and remember to use a higher factor with better protection. Sun creams with SPF 30 or 50 are best for young skin but a minimum SPF 15 should be used. Follow maker’s recommendations and reapply regularly, especially between 11am and 3pm when the sun is at its hottest.

Stay hydrated

Playing in the sun is thirsty work!

Always keep a drink or two at hand to keep youngsters happy and hydrated on your travels – and it’s always a good idea to pack a supply of healthy snacks to keep hunger at bay too.

BBQ safety

A BBQ is hot hot hot! So keep the kids well away from the cooking area. Don’t use lighter fuel or any other flammable liquid to get the BBQ going.

When cooking any kind of meat on a barbecue, such as poultry (chicken or turkey), pork, steak, burgers or sausages, make sure the coals are glowing red with a powdery grey surface before you start cooking - this means they’re hot enough. >>>

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Check meat is thoroughly thawed before cooking and turn it regularly and change its position over the coals when cooking to cook it evenly. Keep cooked and uncooked meat away from each other and wash your hands after touching raw meat and before handling other food items. Remember that meat is safe to eat only when it is piping hot in the centre, there is no pink meat visible and the juices run clear.

Also, when cooking the food, use long-handled tools and barbecue mitts to protect you from the heat. Trimming the excess fat from meats will reduce the chance of a flare-up. If there is a fire, quickly put the lid down to starve the flames of oxygen.

Safe-proof the Garden

Gardens become an intriguing summertime playground for inquisitive little ones but they can also conceal a wealth of hazards. Ensure all play equipment is in tip top order and remove any sharp or heavy tools that might catch a curious eye.

Beat the Bugs

when using inflatables as they can be a hazard when not properly inflated or used on the open sea or in strong winds.

Warm weather brings a host of flies and insects, increasing the potential for bites and infections. To prevent this it’s worth investing in an insect net to fit around the hood and body of a pram or carrycot so babies and toddlers can sleep in peace.

Keep Them Close

Supervised Swimming

Keep Cool

Safe on the beach

Heat-proof the Home

Paddling pools are a fun way to cool off in the heat, but remember that young children can drown in just an inch of water. Never let a child play in or near water unsupervised and make sure you empty paddling pools after use.

Safe on the beach

Always make sure you swim by a life-guard – especially in the sea. UK beaches operate a flag system to help keep swimmers safe. Red and yellow flags mean there are lifeguards on duty and it’s safe to swim between the two flags. A red flag on its own means it’s too dangerous to swim; while a black and white flag indicates a zone reserved for water sports. Watch out 78 Let’s Go ! Wi rral

It’s easy to lose sight of little ones when heading to busy attractions in the summer.

Reins or wrist links will give toddlers a sense of freedom, whilst making sure they don’t wander too far away.

Even on cooler days, temperatures in vehicles can rise to dangerous levels, hitting up to 40°C hotter than outside. Never leave children in a vehicle unsupervised and when travelling, ensure that air is circulating and passengers are hydrated.

Don’t forget about home Safety as the summer hots up. Lock balcony doors when little ones are around and fit latches to windows to prevent tiny hands from pushing them open too far. Keep a close eye on the temperature of your baby’s nursery – ideally it should be around 18°C – a nursery thermometer will keep toddler temperatures in check this summer.

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Every Mon starting 22nd July to 2nd September, 2:00pm.

(Except Bank Holiday Mon 26th August.) BLUE LOUNGE.

MISS GIGGLES Tue 13th August, 1:30pm & 4:00pm.

Wed 14th August, 11:00am & 1:30pm.

THE GRUFFALO’S CHILD Sun 1st September, 1:00pm.

POSTMAN PAT LIVE! Sat 19th October, 7:30pm.

ALL STAR SUPERSLAM WRESTLING Fri 25th & Sat 26th October, 11:00am, 1:30pm & 4:00pm.

CHARLIE & LOLA’S EXTREMELY NEW PLAY Thu 12th December 2013 to Sun 5th January 2014.

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Birthday Colouring Competition Winners We had so many entries to our birthday colouring competition that instead of one winner we have picked three!

We were completely bowled over by the creativity and variety you displayed in your artwork and we would just like to say a big thank you to everyone who got involved.

Our three winners are Brooke Arnell (8) from Little Sutton, Katie McArdle (11) from Greasby and Kiera Griffiths (4) from Birkenhead.

Congratulations! You will each receive a £10 Waterstones’ book token.

For more great summer competitions with great prizes please log on to www.wirralfamilyguide.com

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At Ness every day’s amazing!

There’s SO MUCH for children of all ages at Ness. Indoors or out, rain or shine, there’s always something exciting going on!

STO P New PRESS valu great !

Mem e Fam ily ber avai ship no labl w e!

• Outdoor theatre productions • 64 acres to gallop around • Adventure Playground • Picnic Lawns • Children’s Fun Days • Cafe and Ice Cream Kiosk • Hens • Large Visitor Centre • Gift & Toy Shop • Labyrinth • Themed Treasure Hunts and Trails • Free loan Explorer Packs • Woodland Walks • Wildflower Meadow • Den Making • Nesshenge, and MUCH more...

...See you soon!

B OTA N I C G A R D E N S Ness Botanic Gardens, Ness, Neston, South Wirral CH64 4AY

Tel: 0845 030 4063 Check online for our latest events!

www.nessgardens.org.uk

Le t ’ s Go! Wi r ral 83

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Taking kids to festivals can be great fun and most of the major festivals cater really well for them - but remember if you do take your children YOU are responsible for them. Here are a few tips on how to manage the festivals with children:

Stay vigilant and visible If you

have children, keep a close eye on them at a festival - kids have a nasty habit of getting lost very easily and very quickly. Do all the safety things you would normally do when going out, but be aware that there are lots of things that could distract your child until you are out of your sight. In case they get lost make sure that you know what they are wearing and have told them what to do if they get lost - find a police officer, steward or a ‘mummy with kids’. It’s a good idea to put a mobile phone number on the child somewhere (a wrist band, or sticker on t-shirt), so that if they are found you are easily contacted.

It is especially easy to lose kids after dark so glowsticks are not only fun, but an important safety consideration. LED Balloons are also really good for tying to your wrist/buggy/cart (so your child can locate you) or for your child to carry around (so you can easily locate him/her!)

– You can get a choice of single colour or flashing ones.

Action plan Contact festival welfare and the police on site if you have lost your child and they will help you get reunited, emergency announcements can be made from the stage and normally this will be arranged by Welfare, do not waste your time and everybody else’s by going to the stage and trying to arrange stage announcements yourself - it won’t happen! Go to Welfare, that’s what they are there for! Lost kids and lost property should be reported/taken to the Welfare Point so it/they can be reclaimed/ returned - after the event lost property will be Le t ’ s Go! Wi r ral 85

handed over to the Police and lost kids to Social Services.

Family friendly Some events have special facilities for children including crèches, play areas and children’s entertainment but that does not mean you can just dump the kids for the weekend, you will be required to stay with them and those facilities are usually closed by early evening. The best festivals for kids are those promoted as family events which a more rounded itinerary with arts and crafts or world music. Often these events will have specific entertainment for kids and will have designated family camping fields where facilities are better and evening disruptions are minimised.

Be prepared and make sure you have everything to provide for their needs - take anything to the festival that your child is unhappy without. Most babies through to 13 year olds are pretty flexible, but if there is a dummy, teddy, pillow or toy that your child relies upon, then take it to ensure plenty of relaxing times.

Having said this, you should never take anything to a festival that you are not prepared to lose.

Relax and remember you are on holiday and so are your kids, so let them have a good time. Forget about normal rules and planned days and let the festival and your kids guide you. Children will lead you into spaces that you have never dreamed of visiting before which makes the festival experience fresh. Take a potty, the loo’s can be too much for kids to cope with. A young child is best transported in a ruc-sac baby carrier although a buggy is great for older kids.

Sounds familiar Play some of the music your child will hear at the festival before going. Then they will recognise it and enjoy it all the more. When seeing bands with kids don’t go too near the stage as they will be put off by the loudness of the music and crush of the crowd.

If you stand a bit further back they will enjoy it more. Make time for your child and they will be more tolerant of the things you want to do. E.g. an hour in the kid’s make-it tent followed by a band followed by an ice cream will hopefully 8 6 Le t’s Go ! Wi rral

make everyone happy.

Take plenty of sun block/ hats and light coloured t-shirts for a hot

event or wellies/waterproofs and spare clothes for a wet one. Don’t forget medication - plasters for blisters, anti-bac gel, paracetamol, hay fever tablets and any regular meds, something for upset stomachs and maybe even hangovers.

Some festival sites are prone to tics, especially if the fields are usually grazed by sheep, so a tic removal kit can be a useful. Wet wipes, toothpaste and loo roll are also absolute essentials.

Pack lots of snacks Avocados,

apples, cherry tomatoes, bananas, flapjacks, breadsticks, raisins, vegetable chips, etc. Having a ready supply of healthy-ish snacks reduces the whining ice-cream demands and will maintain kid’s blood-sugar levels, minimise mood swings and subsidise the cost of eating out.

Water bottle For the sake of the planet, please use a refillable water bottle. Plus if you carry a smaller one around and refill it then it’s less to carry. You will need water to drink and also for tooth brushing at your tent.

Travel games Some things that your child can amuse themselves with while you catch a band will come in handy. Depends how old your child is, but something like card games, activity books or dry wipe pictures are great.

You don’t want anything big or bulky because you will have to carry it around all day, just something small that they can do on the picnic blanket.

For more great festival tips for families visit www.wirralfamilyguide.co.uk

2-5 years

6-8 years

9-13s years

at hoylake’s amazing

15 July - 30 August (Minizone starts 22 July) ★ EVERY DAY IS DIFFERENT! ★ MASSES of activities and outings ★ 8 acres of leafy grounds ★ Swimming pool ★ Film theatre ★ Gymnasium ★ Chill out room ★ wii, tv, computers ★ bikes ★ aqua zorbing ★ golf

Book early!

★ tennis ★ football ★ rifle shooting ★ birds of prey ★ drum workshops ★ cooking ★ art & design ★ quad bikes ★ PLUS!! MEGA THEME DAYS!

More info & booking: 0151 632 3156 or 07551 916 565 Half and full day sessions from just £15!

KingsmeadHClubsAdLetsGoJun2013Mk2.indd 1

Le t ’ s Go! Wi r ral 87 07/06/2013 13:02

8 8 Le t’s Go ! Wi rral MissGiggles_72x108_Ad.indd 1

18/6/12 12:15:37

Fantastic local services to make your party go with a bang!

Miss Giggles is sure to make your special occasion full of fun and laughter, with seven years of experience entertaining at parties, schools and nurseries. A variety of puppets, magic, music and balloon modeling creates the perfect balance to keep your children entertained without the chaos! A firm favorite with 2 - 8 year olds, Miss Giggles is one of the only female children’s entertainers performing

in Merseyside and also offers a specialised preschool show too. Does your child want to invite the whole class? No problem – there is no limit on numbers at a Miss Giggles show! Miss Giggles does get very busy so book early, or go for a mid-week when discounts usually apply. A Miss Giggles show is the perfect way to allow you to enjoy the party too! Check out www.missgiggles. co.uk for more info. Don’t forget to ask about her Wedding and Christening packages too entertainment for children is the perfect addition to make the day run smoothly!

The Ladybugs Picnic is a lot more than just a children’s party venue- its a party solutions

Le t ’ s Go! Wi r ral 89

company! With unbeatable prices and expertise, their services range from parties at their unique venue to external parties at a venue of your choice (including weddings, christenings and other occasions). Their mobile disco service offers great entertainment, with music from all eras, as does their hot and cold catering service providing excellent food.

With over 8 years experience Dee’s Partyz has the expertise to make the occasion the talk of the playground. From “Teddy + Rag Doll making” to an action packed “Party Games + Dressing up outfits” for the whole class, where the children can dress up and enter the magical world of make believe and have their photo taken with the life size Princesses, Pirate and Power Rangers cardboard characters. With FREE party themes such as Pirates + Princesses, FREE invitations, birthday presents, a special prize for each guest, 2 complementary photos presented in a card, they really are unbeatable in value for money and quality. Book a teddy or rag doll party

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and get either a FREE outfit, trainers or pink pram. Book a pamper party and get the light up drinks fountain with unlimited juice FREE, plus the birthday girl goes FREE! Just quote Let’s Go. A space hopper party with Hoppy Birthdays is a fab way to entertain the whole class at the venue of your choice. Suitable for both boys and girls aged 4 to 6, hoppers, balloons, bubbles, music and parachute play combine to create the happiest of play times! Bringing a wealth of experience and party knowhow. Sue, ‘The Space Hopper Lady’ captivates the children as they play and is delighted to offer friendly and supportive advice to parents in giving the best possible celebration.

The Princess Pamper Palace by Deborah’s Style House is a spectacular 2 hour, princess pamper party guaranteed to give your little princess a day to remember. This glamour packed experience involves make up (or face paint), hair up and nail painting followed by a session in the

gara ruffa fish pedicure tank. Once your party is made up to the nines and looking a million dollars they can take part in lots of fun party games, indulge themselves with party food and a chocolate fountain. Then the birthday princess gets to pose in a tiara while sitting on the zebra print shoe chair while all her friends sing happy birthday and all from just £120 for eight children and £10 for each extra child. Celebration cakes available also.

Happy Hippos have something to suit every age group from whacky western, pirates and mermaids, to princesses and knights, fairies and superheroes to the new spy and space parties (with 3,000 costumes/props available for hire).

Happy Hippos offer a mobile service (performing in venues of your choice) story telling, tea parties, face painting with bookings taken for groups of 10 to 170.

Full of Beans offers non-stop, fun filled, action packed children’s parties with the perfect sporty

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package for energetic children aged 4 – 11. We offer lots of different activities such as multisports fun and games, cheerleading, street dance, football, zumba, basketball and many more. The price is fixed for two hours and we can entertain up to 30 children. We provide party invitations and all equipment. Our enthusiastic instructors are fully qualified, have lots of experience working in schools and nurseries and are CRB checked. So, if you are looking for a stress free party with a reliable company that has hundreds of unforgettable, fun-filled sporty parties under it’s belt, look no further. To find out more call Nicky 07914 836 797 Yellow Sub is Liverpool’s Premier Indoor Play Centre, with 14,000 square feet of space, and one of the largest and most challenging play frames in the country including a spiral slide, four lane astra slide, traverse climbing wall, astro turf football pitch and a twenty foot Submarine (toddlers to 12 year olds). Fabulous for parties; contains a wholesome family restaurant set

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against the backdrop of the River Mersey.

The Creepy Crawly Show is a fun packed party roadshow that’s great for children’s parties of all ages. Filled with comedy, games, music and challenges and not forgetting the awesome animals, with Snakes, Tarantulas, Lizards, Scorpions, Turtles, Hissing Cockroaches and many more. It offers great photo opportunities and their comical rangers will ensure your occasion is an exciting, fun and memorable one.

Pam’s Pony Parties are dedicated to providing a unique fun filled party or a 1 to 1 pony experience for children and adults of all abilities, insured from age 2 and a half upwards. Planned with you and for you we offer a structured, personal, bespoke party, our website testimonies say it all! Our pony parties are educational, therapeutic, encouraging individuals to build self-confidence, acquire new skills, improve self-awareness, while also generating sensitivity towards animals. Parties are held in a supervised, safe environment used solely by you during your party visit. Pam’s Party

Place is used for indoor games, craft’s, quizzes and Birthday party food (not provided). Lucie and Mini Monty’s decorated stable provides a place for grooming and pampering our adorable miniature and toy ponies. A paddock is provided for lead rein pony/donkey/horse rides. Family and Friends can share interactive fun whilst learning and playing in the beauty of this idyllic, privately owned tranquil environment. beadybeady Jewellery making parties in your home or venue with an amazing choice of beads & charms (including letter beads) . beadybeady has been established for 7 years with a fabulous reputation and a fun easy system for making.

NEW! 3 PARTY CHOICES starting at £9.50 to make 5 items each + diamante organza bag. All parties are high quality, for children (6yrs+) and Teens. Beads & Charms to suit age are brought to the party as well as requests. Jewellery choices include earrings (pierced or clip), bracelet, phone/ds charm, double charm, keyring, book bag ring, bookmark and NEW ITEMS hair clip, dust plug charm (phone, i-pod/ tablet , ds), ear cuff, charm bracelet, necklace, brooch, Pandora

style bracelet (with European beads & charms), and NEW choice of coloured pierced earring tops.

We have a popular special package of £4.50 each for brownies, guides, rainbows etc. Fundraising for Schools, PTA, School Fairs and Events. For bookings 0151-639-1505. ONLINE SHOP for beads, findings and gifts www.beadybeady. co.uk. Lorraine (the beadybeady lady) would like to thank previous customers and looks forward to meeting future beadybeadylings.

Celebrate in style with a unique ball game party experience at Soccerloco. Enjoy an hour of Soccerloco activities plus nutritious party food, you very own party host, Soccerloco challenge with winner’s certificate, mini football for every guest and all for just £12 per head. Personalised football birthday cakes can also be arranged at additional cost. Activities include Football Crazy Golf, Target Practise, Obstacle Course, Ten Pin Bowling, Penalty Shootout and more. A Soccerloco party is so much more than football and will really put your ball skills to the test. It’s as much fun as you can have with a football and some friends.

Le t ’ s Go! Wi r ral 93

Let’s Go! would like to thank the staff and teachers at every primary school in Wirral that help us to make the magazine a success. Without their participation it would not be possible.

We also extend a thank you to the additional 170 outlets which ensure Let’s Go! reaches every young Wirral family. These outlets include pre-schools, nurseries, playgroups, health centres, libraries and children’s centres. For a full list of distribution points or to request additional copies of Let’s Go! please email subscriptions@letsgopublishing.co.uk.

CH41 Portland Primary Bidston Avenue Primary St Werburgh’s Catholic Primary Birkenhead Christ Church Primary Cathcart Street Primary The Priory Parish CofE Primary Holy Cross Catholic Primary Our Lady and St Edward’s Primary The Woodlands Primary CH42 Mersey Park Primary Rock Ferry Primary St Anne’s Catholic Primary Well Lane Primary Bedford Drive Primary Devonshire Park Primary Woodchurch Road Primary CH43 Prenton Primary Townfield Primary St Joseph’s Catholic Primary St Paul’s Catholic Primary Manor Primary Hillside Primary St Peter’s Catholic Primary Redcourt St. Anselms Oxton St Saviours Bidston Village Primary Birkenhead High School Academy Birkenhead Preparatory Prenton Preparatory CH44 Poulton Primary Park Primary St Alban’s Catholic Primary Riverside Primary St Joseph’s Catholic Primary Egremont Primary Somerville Primary Kingsway Primary Mount Primary CH45 Elleray Park School New Brighton Primary St George’s Primary Liscard Primary

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Greenleas Primary Saints Peter & Paul Cath. Primary Mount Primary CH46 Castleway Primary Leasowe Primary Our Lady of Lourdes Cath. Primary Lingham Primary Eastway Primary Sacred Heart Catholic Primary Sandbrook Primary Moreton ChristChurch CH47 Hoylake Holy Trinity CofE Primary Great Meols Primary CH48 West Kirby St Bridget’s Primary West Kirby Primary Black Horse Hill Infant Black Horse Hill Junior Avalon School West Kirby Residential CH49 Our Lady of Pity Catholic Primary Brookdale Primary Greasby Junior Greasby Infant Overchurch Junior Overchurch Infant Hayfield School St Michael and All AngelsPrimary St Joseph’s Catholic Primary Woodchurch CofE Primary Fender Primary CH60 Barnston Primary Heswall St Peter’s CofE Primary Heswall Primary Gayton Primary CH61 Thurstaston Dawpool Primary Irby Primary Pensby Primary Thingwall Primary Pensby Park Primary

Ladymount CH62 St Mary’s CofE Primary Woodslee Primary Grove Street Primary Church Drive Primary Christ The King Catholic Primary Raeburn Primary Mendell Primary Heygarth Primary Lyndale School Millfields Primary CH63 Brookhurst Primary Brackenwood Junior Brackenwood Infant Stanton Road Primary St John’s Catholic Infant St John’s Catholic Junior St Andrew’s CofE Aided Primary Town Lane Infant Higher Bebington Junior Poulton Lancelyn Primary Thornton Hough Primary CH64 Bishop Wilson Neston Primary Parkgate Primary St. Winefrides Primary Willaston Primary CH65 William Stockton Our Lady Star of the Sea St. Bernards Primary Christ Church C of E Cambridge Road Primary Westminster Community CH66 Little Sutton Primary Brookside Primary Childer Thornton Meadow Primary Parklands Primary Sutton Green Primary

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