S um m e r 2 0 11
The local guide for your under 5s
free
Camping with Kids Children’s Garden Games Celebrate Father’s Day
News Competitions Baby & Toddler Clubs & Classes e!
Events Insid Summer Activities and
Kettering, Wellingborough, Corby, Rushden, Thrapston and Surrounding Areas
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Corby East Midlands International Pool West Glebe Pavilion Parks & Open Spaces (East Carlton Country Park) Happenin� Project Activity & Sports Camp @ Lodge Park Sports Centre (8.45am—4.00pm, half days available, Ofsted Registered) We have lots of different activities taking place around the Borough. For further information contact Culture & Leisure, Tel: 01536 464042 or view the website www.corby.gov.uk/halftermactivities
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Summer 2011 Welcome to the summer issue of Time for Tots. We’ve got lots to keep you and your little ones entertained this summer from adverts for fantastic activities or days out, such as music classes or trips to the farm, to ideas for games to play at home in your garden. Our special offers section has some great money saving vouchers for days out, so be sure to take a look in there before you go anywhere. We’ve got a super article on camping with kids on page 24 and a little Father’s Day feature on page 8. Our Clubs and Classes section is bigger than ever this issue. Some clubs and classes stop for the summer, others continue as normal and some run special summer courses, so always check who’s doing what if you’re looking for classes to participate in this summer. Many Clubs and Classes are enrolling now for September so take a look through, work out what you’d like to do from September and get your tot’s name down before spaces run out. Whatever you get up to we hope you have a great summer and that this gorgeous weather continues through to Autumn! Until then...
Vanessa
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Contents 4 Tots News 7 Wistow Maze 8 Time for Daddy 10 Clubs & Classes 11 Mucky Pups 15 Baby Signing 20 Garden Games 23 Events Diary 24 Camping with Kids 26 Parenting After Parting 28 Book Review 29 Party Services 30 Where to feed and change your baby 32 Business Opportunities 33 Time for Mum 35 Special Offers 36 Parent & Tot Groups
How to Contact us:
Post: Time for Tots, PO Box 7409, Kettering, NN16 6GR Tel: 0845 6439687 E-mail: info@timefortots.co.uk
39 Win Win Win!
www.timefortots.co.uk
A home from home For children aged 8 weeks to 12 years • Open 51 weeks a year • FREE Nursery Education for 3 and 4 year olds • Family owned and run centre • Large garden with access to allotments and wildlife area • Before and After School Clubs and Holiday Club also available
For more information:
01536 264422
www.little-learners-childcare.co.uk sam@little-learners-childcare.co.uk
Open
Mon 7.30am - Fri - 6.30pm
Our Lady of Walsingham Catholic Primary school, Occupation Road, Corby, Northamptonshire, NN17 1EE
Whilst every effort is taken to ensure the content of this magazine is up to date and accurate, ‘Time for Tots’ cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Neither does ‘Time for Tots’ endorse any of the companies, products or services that are advertised. Copyright on all written material and artwork produced by the ‘Time for Tots’ team remains with ‘Time for Tots’.
To advertise call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
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Tots News New Baby Yoga Classes coming to Kettering
A
re you looking for something new to try with your baby? Maybe you have had experience of Yoga during pregnancy? Baby yoga is all about spending some special time with your little one to help bonding, gain confidence and joy. There are many benefits for parent and baby: physically you both gain strength and flexibility, it can help improve digestion and give relief for colicky babies, all babies’ senses are stimulated, it helps to settle babies and improve sleep patterns and enhances their natural development both mentally and physically. Above all its lots of fun and a good opportunity to meet like-minded mums (or dads)! If you are interested in finding out more please contact Carly on 01858 565713 or carly@infantaquatics.co.uk
Anderson Dance open their new studios
A
nderson Dance have been running classes in ballet, tap, modern and street dance in Kettering since 2003 for adults and children from 3 years, and currently have over 200 students attending their classes. Until recently they always had to rent halls for their classes but on 30th April 2011 they opened their very own, purpose-built studio in Kettering with proper flooring, mirrors and rails! The new two storey premises, situated just off Northfield Avenue in Kettering, consist of a foyer, studio 1 and toilet facilities downstairs, and a waiting room, studio 2, kitchen and toilet facilities upstairs. When not being used for dance classes the premises can be hired for other classes and events such as parties or meetings. For more information about dance classes or hiring the hall visit www.andersondance.co.uk or call Miss Anderson on 07711 866346.
Family Lakeside
Photoshoot
F
iretree Photography are hosting a lakeside photoshoot on Thursday 28th July from 9.30am to 2pm. Situated in private grounds, the beautiful lake has both woodland and lakeside landscape for wonderful family and child portraits. ÂŁ15 per child / ÂŁ20 per family. For more information visit www.firetreephoto.co.uk or call 01858 440981. Limited places so booking essential.
Continued on page 6... Please mention Time for Tots when responding to an advertisement
5 gg
Giggles & Wi with
and Nursery School
• Open all year, Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm • Full and part time places for 2 to 5 year olds • High quality learning environment • Highly qualified staff
les
Summe Camps r
Creatures of the Ocean
Ahoy there Mates! Join us as we sing sailor songs. Build sand castles, fly like seagulls, search for crabs and count sea shells on the shore. Creatures of the Ocean is full of songs, finger plays, rhymes, musical stories and dances that bring the sea to life, and will inspire children and parents to explore the wonders of the ocean and the beach! Join us for 4 sessions of our summer camp: Thursday 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th August 2011 at 9.30am. Course is £25 per child.
Oh What Busy Days!
Making life better for parents and children by bringing together early education and day care, health services, employment and training advice, family support, drop-in groups, courses and information services. Croyland Road, Wellingborough, Northants NN8 2AX Tel: 01933 279681 www.croylandcentre.ik.org We are a non-profit organisation
Set your baby’s day to classical music with a little more Tchaikovski in “Twinkle Twinkle” repertoire. You’ll discover new ways your baby benefits from the classics as you both develop an appreciation for the most respected music in the world! Each lesson features new activities and songs for all the places you go together: the store, playground, doctor and more… Join us for 4 sessions of our summer camp, Thursday 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th August at 10.30am. Course is £20 per baby.
Make this summer something to sing about! To reserve your child’s place or for more information: Contact Julianna on 01536 390392
An opportunity to volunteer with the UK’s leading family support charity Home-Start Corby provides a unique family visiting service and is now looking to recruit and train local volunteers to share their parenting experiences with other families by visiting them in their own homes. If you would like to join our existing team of parent volunteers and visit families to share tips, ideas and parenting highs and lows, then we would love to hear from you. We are also looking for trustee/advisors to be part of our management committee. Please contact us for more information on this role within Home-Start. If there is anyone out there who has a particular interest in fundraising we would love to hear from you! Home-Start Corby Ltd Pen Green Children’s Centre, Pen Green Lane, Corby, Northants NN17 1BJ Email: homestartcorby@yahoo.co.uk Tel: 01536 409612
To advertise call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
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Underwater Photoshoot
J
enny’s Dolphins are hosting an underwater photoshoot at Montsaye Community Sports Centre in Rothwell on Saturday 13th August from 10am. The shoot is open to all: old, existing and future swimmers of Jenny’s Dolphins. Places are limited though so booking is essential. This is a one-off opportunity to have your child’s photograph taken underwater at the special rate of £20. Various costumes are available! Visit www.jennysdolphins.co.uk or call 07821 646451 for more information.
10% off nursing bras
at Mocha Mama’s Mum2be club
M
ocha Mama in Kettering are offering 10% off any nursing bra ordered through their ‘Mum2be’ club! The ‘Mum2be’ club is open to pregnant mums from 36 weeks, Dads are welcome too! It runs every second Monday in the month from 7.30-8.30pm, and is your chance to meet other mums-to-be, have a look at mocha mama, have a drink on them and a free, no obligation bra fitting. No need to book, just turn up.
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There’s a buzz about Wistow this Summer...
L
Special Events June to August June 11th:
Family Fun Day
June 19th:
Thomas’ Fathers’ Day: Dad drives Thomas! (pre-booking essential)
June 25th & 26th:
Thomas’ birthday (pre-booking essential)
August 6th & 7th:
Thomas’ Big weekend
eicestershire’s award winning Wistow Maze offers a great, and affordable, day out the whole family will enjoy - whether you’re aged 3 or 93! Each year the maze is re-designed using GPS satellite technology and created out of 8 acres of living maize crop. This year the maze is in the shape of a giant honey bee, complete with hive, to highlight the problem of declining bee populations and its threat to global food security. Situated just south of Leicester, the maze incorporates high level bridges and viewing towers giving visitors stunning 3D panoramic views of the complex maze and beautiful surrounding countryside. A fun quiz trail is hidden amongst the 3 miles of pathways and this year the quiz has a wildlife theme highlighting other wildlife under threat such as the dormouse, red squirrel and otter. Clues can be found amongst the 3 miles of intricate pathways cut into the maize. After experiencing the ‘real thing’, visitors can then take part in a variety of mini mazes, games and table top activities in the Activity Funyard. There is also a space hopper track, hoopla and football shooting game, with light refreshments available. Opposite is the Wistow Rural Centre with a café/ bistro, garden centre, model village, farm shop, aquatic centre and many shops selling furniture, gifts, jewellery and much more. Little Miss Gifts is a must visit for all little girls! The Wistow Maze is open 7 days a week from: Saturday 16th July to Sunday 4th September (then weekends only until the 25th Sept), 10am to 6pm daily. Free Parking. Admission charges: Adults £5.95 Children £4.95 Family Ticket (2+2) £19.95. For more information call 07884 403889 or visit: www.wistow.com Win tickets to Wistow Maze! See page 39 for details
For more information on any event please contact: The Nene Valley Railway, Wansford Station Stibbington, Peterborough, PE8 6LR Tel: 01780 784444
Website: www.nvr.org.uk
To advertise call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
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Time for Daddy!
Father’s Day: 19th June 2011
After running a Mothering Sunday feature in our Spring issue we thought it only fair to cover Father’s Day in our Summer issue! So here’s a little history for you and ideas on where to spend the day...
A brief history
Most sources agree that Father’s Day originated in the USA in 1910 when a lady called Sonora Smart Dodd, who was raised by her father after her mother died in childbirth, felt fatherhood deserved the same recognition as motherhood, which was honoured/celebrated each year on Mother’s Day. Sonora campaigned for the day to be formerly recognised but it took many years for Father’s Day to be taken seriously and become the widely celebrated and respected day it is today. Father’s Day is celebrated on different dates throughout the world but in the UK it always falls on the third Sunday in June, which this year is the 19th June.
What’s on this Father’s day If you’re wondering how to spend the day with your Dad or husband then here’s our guide to what’s on where:
Dad Drives Thomas!
at Nene Valley Railway
Let Dad fulfill a life long dream to drive a steam locomotive this Father’s Day! Dads can drive Thomas on two trips to the tunnel and back - and receive a special drivers certificate for doing so! Children can take a photo of Dad as he drives Thomas. Price: £20 per Dad (over 18s only). All proceeds towards Thomas’ overhaul fund. You can also treat Dad to a full English breakfast (served until 10.30am). Limited Spaces so booking essential. Call 01780 784444 or visit www.nvr.org.uk.
Big Machines, Steak and Ale
at West Lodge Rural Centre
Take Dad along to West Lodge Rural Centre on the 19th where there’ll be farm machinery on display, including a CLAAS combine harvester, and steak and real ale will be served in the restaurant, plus all the usual farm attractions to entertain the children. Call 01536 760552 or visit www.westlodgeruralcentre.co.uk for more information.
Family Fun
Classic Cars
To celebrate dads of all ages, there will be a host of activities held in the stunning grounds of the Hall, giving families the chance to get out and have a fun day together. The event includes live music from The Kibworth Band, a treasure hunt, story telling, garden games and a coconut shy. Activities will run from 2pm to 5pm, with refreshments and lunches available from 11am in the Tea Room. Admission is £5 which includes entry to the gardens. For details of opening times visit www.kelmarsh.com or call 01604 686543.
If your Dad is a classic car fanatic then it would well be worth the trip (approximately an hour from Kettering) to Audley End House in Cambridgeshire where a beautiful collection of classic cars will be on display. You could also treat him to lunch or afternoon tea in the cafe! 11am to 5pm. Adults £12.50, children 5 to 15: £7.50. Visit: www.english-heritage.org.uk for more information.
at Kelmarsh Hall & Gardens
at Audley End House and Gardens
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“What’s the best thing about your Daddy?”
“He loves me too much”
Archie, age 2
“The lovely kisses, cuddles and presents he gives me”
“He takes me to the park and we have ice-cream”
“Throwing me and my teddies high into the sky and catching us again”
“When he has a shave so he can give me kisses that are not scratchy”
“He’s a builder like Bob (the Builder)!”
“He takes me to Wicksteed Park”
Gracie, age 3
Sophie, age 4
Mia, age 4
Sam, age 3
“His belly”
Gemma, age 3
Lola, age 3
Sean, age 3
To advertise call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
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Clubs & Classes To advertise your Club or Class here call: 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
Barbara Hooton School of Dancing Ballet and Tap Classes Burton Latimer, Earls Barton, Finedon, Irthlingborough and Wellingborough
Keep Fit Classes for Mums Principal: Barbara Allebone M.N.A.T.D
Telephone: 01933 663225 07788 710144
MUSIC MAKERS Come and join in the Music Makers fun singing-movement-instruments-puppets
For babies to pre-schoolers OUNDLE JOAN STRONG CENTRE Thursdays at 1pm from September TITCHMARSH PAVILION Thursdays at 10am CRANFORD VILLAGE HALL Mondays at 10am, 11am & 2pm 45-minute sessions cost £4 per child and £2 per subsequent sibling Music Makers birthday parties available BOOKING ESSENTIAL Contact Naomi Cooper Tel: 07815 293893 or 01832 731953
Email: tc.coops@virgin.net
www.barbarahootonschoolofdancing.co.uk
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Mucky Pups: Where kids have messy fun and we clean up! What is Mucky Pups? Mucky Pups is an arts and crafts club for pre-schoolers and their carers. The carer stays with their child and each spends precious quality time together. Activities available every week, designed to fit in with our themes, include: • Painting - easels, finger painting and sponge printing • Drawing, colouring and cutting skills • Playdough, clay and gloop • Sticking pictures • Craft activities A range of art and craft materials is always on hand. Mucky Pups is a wonderful way to meet and make like-minded friends in a safe and happy environment. Children love it and are proud to take all their creations home. Kids have messy fun and we clean up!! It is designed to work in a weekly class environment or a themed birthday party.
I give them any hints that may help them with certain items and they then go off and start. The children do as many activities as they like throughout the class. 10 minutes from the end we gather back into the circle for a drink and biscuit. The children talk about everything they have made and then we talk about what theme is planned for the next class. What ages are the classes for? Classes are for pre-school aged children and birthday parties up to around 7. When and where do you run classes? Mondays, 10am to 11am at Rothwell Methodist Church, Rothwell, and Fridays, 1pm to 2pm at North Park Pavilion, Kettering. To book on a class or for more information: Contact: Karen Blowfield Telephone: 07810 827697 Email: karen.blowfield@mucky-pups.com Website: www.mucky-pups.com
How do the classes benefit children? Mucky Pups empowers children to: • Freely explore a wide variety of materials and techniques • Learn, through creativity and experimentation, problem solving skills • Feel good about themselves and their abilities • Experiment with cause and effect while developing small motor skills and hand/eye co-ordination • Learn that it is the process and not the product that is the key to having fun! • Focus their energy constructively • Learn about the world around them with seasonal weekly themes Talk us through a typical class The hour long class starts in a circle where we all say hello and introduce the theme of the class. The children are then all shown the things that they can make throughout the class. To advertise call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
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CRECHE Available for children aged 3 months—5 years at Corby East Midlands International Pool & Lodge Park Sports Centre . Come and have a swim, take part in a fitness class or have a workout in the gym. Lodge Park Crèche Opening Times Pool Crèche Opening Times Mon—Fri 9.30am—11.25am Mon—Fri 12.30pm—2.25pm Mon/Wed/Fri 9.30am—11.25am The pool crèche also offers; Shop & Swim, Swim & Bring, Pre-school Fitness Fun (Just for Dads) and Twins on a Tuesday.
TOTS & TIDDLERS
at Lodge Park Sports Centre. Pre-School Gymnastics and movement for children delivered by qualified coaches. Sessions help to develop children’s social, physical, language, education, imagination & co-ordination skills. Sessions run on a Thursday throughout School Term Time Age 2 –3 Age 3-4 Under 2 10am—10.45am 11am—11.45am 1pm—1.45pm (Beginners session) 1.45pm—2.30pm (Intermediate session) For both the Crèche and Tots & Tiddlers booking is advisable. Please contact each facility for prices & further information or view the website www.corby.gov.uk
SHAPE Dance (4 years +)
Classes in Tap, Ballet and Modern Dance held throughout the Borough. Classes are held at; Beanfield Community Centre, Stephenson Way Community Centre, West Glebe Pavilion, Kingswood Neighbourhood Centre & Lodge Park Sports Centre. For more information please contact Julie Cardwell Tel: 01536 464046 Email: julie.cardwell@corby.gov.uk
SWIMMING LESSONS & FAMILY SWIMMING at Corby East Midlands International Pool 3—4 years old Swimming Lessons are available on a Saturday & Sunday morning. Currently there is a waiting list, names are being taken for children who are 3+. 5+ Junior Swimming Lessons are available, Monday—Friday at various times. Currently there is a waiting list, names are being taken for children who are 5+. Parent & Toddler Sessions for children from 3 months—4 years old. Available on a Tuesday & Friday 9.30am—11.30am and Thursday 1.00pm—3.00pm. Booking is not req’d.
AQUANATAL
at Corby East Midlands International Pool is run by midwives on Wednesdays, 1.30pm—2.30pm, please contact the pool for prices. Lodge Park Sports Centre Tel: 01536 400033
Corby East Midlands International Pool Tel: 01536 464643
www.corby.gov.uk/lodgepark
www.corby.gov.uk/corbypool
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Pre-school Gymnastics Sessions
Fully matted gymnasium with soft play, climbing and challenging equipment to aid in the development of children from 1 to 5 years.
Structured classes with qualified coaches to develop your child’s physical, mental and social skills in a safe and fun filled environment. Sessions held Monday to Thursday £3.50 per ¾ hour session for under 3s £4.00 per ¾ hour session for over 3s No registration fee Award schemes in which to participate Contact Kerry or Vicky on 01536 415444 or e-mail ketteringgymtots@hotmail.com www.ketteringgymnasticsclub.co.uk Find us at Brunel Close, off Northfield Avenue, Kettering
Home of Kettering Gym Tots & Kettering Olympic Gymnastics Club
New dance studios! The Anderson School of Dance now has its own premises in Kettering consisting of 2 studios, a waiting room, foyer and kitchen area. Premises can be hired for clubs, classes, parties, meetings etc. Classes in ballet, tap, modern and street dance are available for children from 3 years and adults. For more information, on dance classes or hiring the hall, please visit our website: www.andersondance.co.uk or phone Miss Anderson on: 07711 866346 To advertise call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
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Infant Aquatics Baby & toddler swimming courses
• Small and friendly classes • Babies and toddlers from 3 months to 4 years • Gain confidence and life long skills • Weekday and weekend classes
For Kettering classes contact Carly Tel: 01858 565 713 carly@infantaquatics.co.uk For Wellingborough & Wollaston classes contact Mel Tel: 01933 223 458 mel@infantaquatics.co.uk
Baby Yo g coming a s o on contact Carly to find ou t more
www.infantaquatics.co.uk
New classes starting in September. Book now!
Giggles & Wiggles with
www.footloosedanceschool.com
Footloose “Glee” Summer Dance Club Monday 25th to Friday 29th July 2011 Come along and join in the singing, dancing and general fun of our second holiday club Open for children aged between 5 and 12 years 9am to 12noon daily at Higham Ferrers Working Mens Club Just £45 per child All helpers are CRB checked and all dance teachers are qualifed with the NATD
What if there was a baby & toddler music movement programme that took the ordinary and made it extraordinary? • • • • • • • • •
Enjoy quality time with your baby or toddler Experience the joy of music & movement with your child Encourage early learning and creativity Understand the latest information about how babies & toddlers learn through music Promote language development, symbolic thinking, coordination & social interaction Cultivate imagination Sing, dance and move to music Nurture the foundation of lifelong musical endeavours & enjoyment Enjoy music at home with quality CDs & books
Limited places available so book now!
Baby classes: birth to 15 months Toddler classes: 15 months to 3½ years
For more information or to book your child’s place, contact Sarah on: 07956 597748 or email: info@footloosedanceschool.com
Celebrate the stages, not just the ages, of your child’s development. It’s never too early to start
Contact Julianna on 01536 390392
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Sing and Sign: Learn baby signing the fun way! When Amanda Walker, first attended ‘Sing & Sign’ classes in Hitchin with her 7 month old daughter Amy, she didn’t realise it would lead to a new career! Amanda was so impressed with the course that when she moved to East Northants she became a Sing & Sign franchisee for the area. That was 5 years ago and she is now teaching the siblings of some of the original babies she taught. What Is ‘Sing & Sign’? Developed with the help of speech and language experts, ‘Sing & Sign’ courses are weekly music groups for hearing babies, in which parents and carers learn an exciting way to enhance their babies’ communication before they are able to speak. Sing and Sign has taught thousands of parents across the UK to sign with their babies in a relaxed, fun environment and to encourage amazingly early communication. So what is Baby Signing? Babies naturally use a combination of gestures and sounds to help their parents understand them, as a part of typical development before speech is well established. They may point, shake their heads, clap their hands and wave “bye bye”. This is a good time to introduce some extra gestures to help your baby communicate and therefore reduce their frustration. It’s easy to do and your baby will really enjoy it! Baby signing is wonderfully rewarding and fantastic fun. You will be amazed by what your baby is capable of telling you before being able to talk. How are babies taught? Everyone knows that nursery rhymes and action songs are great fun and that musical activities help stimulate language development. Sing and Sign combines the benefits of both music and baby signing. Your baby enjoys the music while you learn the signs. What makes Sing and Sign special is that the songs have been especially written or adapted to target the important words in your baby’s world. Mealtime, bath time, hiding games and bedtime; you name it, there is a song about it and the babies just love to hear them! As well as familiar and original songs; puppets, props and pictures are used to inspire your baby’s interest and illustrate the
signs. Learning the Sing and Sign way is gradual, effortless and great fun for all involved! Book now for new courses starting soon! Stage 1 courses are suitable for babies 6/7 months plus. Once you and your baby are confidently using the signs, you can join the Stage 2 (improvers) class, for babies 15/16 months plus, enjoying movement, colours, basic counting and phonics. What the parents say… “Amanda is very approachable, friendly, enthusiastic and makes the session a lot of fun. I have recommended the group to friends and family.” “Very pleased with it. My daughter picked up the signs really quickly and it has enabled her to make her wishes known even before she has the words to tell me. Excellent.” “Really good – friendly and enjoyable – keep it coming! Wish I’d never taught him the sign for ‘more’ though!”
For further details and to reserve your space, please call Amanda on 07939 092134, visit www.singandsign.com or find her on Facebook, search for Sing and Sign East Northants. Classes are very popular so early booking is advised.
To advertise call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
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Jenny’s Dolphins Baby & Pre-school Swimming Lessons Classes in Rothwell and Corby Prices from only £5.50 per lesson Instructor in the water Average of 4 children per class
First Cla ss FREE!
See vouc ‘Special her in Offers’
Call: 07821 646451 Email: jennysdolphins@live.co.uk www.jennysdolphins.co.uk
This is a one off opportunity to have your child’s or family’s photograph taken in the water at this special price. Offer available to old, existing and future swimmers of Jenny’s Dolphins. Various outfits to choose from! When: Saturday 13th August, from 10am Where: Montsaye Sports Centre, Rothwell To book: Call: 07821 646451, or Email: jennysdolphins@live.co.uk Booking fee: £20
New er Kick e M ga r 5-7yrs o f w Class well as ne n i s g a olds es runnin d s n s a a l c ring Kette rby Co
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To advertise call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
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To advertise call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
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FUN IN THE SUN
Outdoor games to play with your children
One of the best things about summer is being able to get out in the garden and enjoy the fresh air and open space with your children. With a little imagination (and some good weather) there’s oodles of fun, not to mention learning and developmental benefits, to be had playing simple games... and best of all it’s free! Here’s a selection of our favourite outdoor games which you can play in your garden, local park or virtually any open space!
Treasure Hunt
A firm favourite with children of all ages, treasure hunts can be played almost anywhere and can be adapted to suit different ages. You can simply hide sweets around the garden for children to find or you may choose to hide objects giving each child a prize at the end. We often play with coloured balls from our ball pool with one child finding the red balls, another the blue ones and so on. Giving each child a specific colour to find means you can vary the level of difficulty (in terms of where you hide the object) according to the age and ability of the child. If a child needs help, you can use ‘cold, warmer, hot’ to guide them to where an object is hidden. For older children you could give them written riddles to make it even more challenging.
Scavenger Hunt
A variation on the treasure hunt is the scavenger hunt where children are given a specific list of things to find. For young children you can give them pictures of the items to find or tell them things one at a time. This game can be played in your back garden or in a country park or similar. Ideas of things for them to find include: a twig, stone, blade of grass, brown leaf, green leaf, large leaf, small leaf, a nice smelling flower, red petal, yellow petal…and so on!
Follow my leader
Select one person (adult or child) to be the leader and get the others to line up behind him/her. Everyone walks round in a line copying what the leader (at the front) does eg hopping, jumping, waving their hands, barking like a dog etc. This game will get everyone laughing and is great for little ones to practise their listening and co-ordination skills.
Target practice
Set a target eg a large box or a hula-hoop or even a specific point on the ground or wall, and take it in
turns to throw bean bags or balls or similar items at the target. If it’s a competition the child who gets the most items in the target wins! If you don’t have any bean bags to use you can make them using old socks and dried beans!
Assault course
A favourite with my children is the garden assault course where we set up a series of obstacles for the children to climb over, under or through eg down the slide, through the tunnel, weaving in and out of the plant pots, on the scooter to the next obstacle, splish-splash through the paddling pool, under the bar, over the box and so on. You can have races by timing each other with a prize for the fastest person!
Races
If you have a few children races can be great fun and very exciting! There are all sorts of races you can do if you have a reasonably-sized open space to play in: sack, egg and spoon, skipping, wheelbarrow etc. Set a start line and a finish line and off you go!
Red Light, Green Light
Select someone to be the caller. They stand facing away from the other children, who stand behind a starting line about 10 metres away. When the caller calls out “green light”, the children run forward as quickly as they can to try to tag him/her. At any time the caller may call out “red light” at which point all the children must freeze. The caller turns round and if he catches anyone moving they are sent back to the starting line. The first player to reach the caller and tag them becomes caller in the next round.
21
Bubble mania
Young children love bubbles! Blow lots of bubbles into the garden (using a machine if you have one) and watch the children run around trying to catch them.
Balloon Volleyball
Young children also love balloons! As they move much slower than a ball through the air they’re great for playing volleyball with young children or a game of “keepy-uppy” where you all try and keep the balloon up in the air and don’t let it touch the ground.
Water Games
On a hot day get your children into their swimming costumes and have some fun with water!
Hosepipe Limbo
If you have a hosepipe set it up as a bar for children to try and run under without getting too wet! Start high bringing the stream of water gradually lower and watch the children scream with excitement as they start to get wet!
Musical Sprinkler
If you have a garden sprinkler, set it up in the middle of a large(ish) grassy area but DON’T turn it on. Have the children dance around the area of the sprinkler (to music if you like). When the sprinkler comes on the children must freeze in that position until it goes off again. Any child who moves, is out!
Soap and Water
Simply filling a large bowl or paddling pool with soapy water and letting the children splash around in it or clean their bikes and toys makes for a fun afternoon – and is particularly handy for entertaining/involving the kids while you wash the car!
Throw in a picnic and some ice creams and you’ve got yourself a great afternoon of fun (with tired out kids ready for bed at the end of the day!)
22 Bearly Worn
Beautiful clothes for Boys & girls, from newborn To 11 years.
Children’s Clothing Agency
DRESS YOUR KIDS FOR LESS At Bearly Worn we have a great selection of designer labels & popular high street brands all at great prices. From baby wear, every day clothing to formalwear. We also have a selection of shoes & gifts. Come & take a look. Mon – Fri. 09.30 – 4.30pm Sat. 09.30 – 3pm 28a High St, Thrapston,
NN14 4JH 01832 732405
www.bearly-worn.co.uk
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23
Events Diary June Wed 8th
Nature Tots at Barnwell Country Park. 10-11.30am and 1-2.30pm. Must book.
July Fri 8th
Summer Fayre at St Andrew’s Primary, Kettering. 2.45pm.
Sat 9th
Camping weekend at West Family Fun Day & Beer Festival Lodge Farm. Stanwick Swashbucklers. at Nene Valley Railway. Pirate fun with games, crafts www.nvr.org.uk. & adventures at Stanwick Sat 18th “Chicken Licken” at The Core at Lakes, 11am to 4pm. Pirate Corby Cube. 11am & 2pm. For fancy dress optional! Modest charges apply. ages 3 to 6 years. £5. “Rabbits, Ladders and Stars In Summer fete at Hall Meadow Jars” at The Royal & Derngate. Primary, Kett. 11am-3pm. Sun 10th Visit: royalandderngate.co.uk Summer fete at Brambleside “Music in the Park” charity School, Kettering. 12-2pm. concert at Wistow. Bring a picnic and enjoy an evening of Fri 15th to Sat 30th music and fireworks for all the “Flathampton” at The Royal & Derngate Theatre. Visit: family. www.wistow.com. www.royalandderngate.co.uk
Sat 11th
Sun 19th
Father’s Day. See our guide on Sat 16th “And Then There Were Two” page 8 for special events. at The Core at Corby Cube. Father’s Day Fun at Sacrewell 9.30am, 11am & 2pm. For Farm. Free entry for Dads! under 4s and their families
Sat 25th
Baby & Children’s Nearly New Sale at The Pemberton Centre, Rushden, 10am-12pm. Contact Karen on 07577 701161.
Sat 16th & Sun 17th
Miniature Steam Engine weekend at Sacrewell Farm
Thu 28th
Firetree Photography Lakeside Photoshoot. See page 4.
August Thu 4th
Minibeasting with the rangers at Stanwick Lakes, 1-2pm. Hunt for and identify minibeasts in the grass and trees. £1/child, FREE to members, booking essential. 01933 625522
Thu 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th Kindermusik Summer Camp. See page 5 for details.
Sat 6th & Sun 7th
Thomas’ Big Weekend at Nene Valley Railway. www.nvr.org.uk
Sat 6th & Sun 7th
Jenny’s Dolphine Underwater Photoshoot. See page 16.
Mon 15th to Fri 19th
Stagecoach Summer Workshop. See page 10.
Sat 20th
“Wind in the Willows” outdoor theatre at Stanwick Lakes. 4-6pm. Suitable for families from 3 to 93! Must book.
Sat 20th & Sun 21st
Thomas and the Travelling Post Office Weekend at Nene Valley Schools break for the summer Railway. www.nvr.org.uk Sat 25th & Sun 26th Family Barn Dance at West Thu 25th Fairies and Elves weekend at Lodge Farm. Must book. Minibeasting with the rangers West Lodge Farm. Fairy Trail, at Stanwick Lakes. See Thu 4th Sat 23rd Wand Making, Fancy Dress, Aug entry for details. Bubble Babies Underwater Face Painting. Photoshoot, See page 13. Fri 26th Thomas’ Birthday Party at Fireman Sam at The Newlands Mon 25th to Fri 29th Nene Valley Railway. Train ride, Centre, Kettering. See page 6. Footloose Glee Summer goody bag, entertainment. Dance Club. See page 14. Sun 28th & Mon 29th Must book. www.nvr.org.uk. Family Fun Day at West Lodge Thu 28th Thu 30th Farm. Traditional Country Fair, Animal Zoo at The Newlands Fifi at The Newlands Centre, Family Fun and Games. Centre, Kettering. See page 6. Kettering. See page 6.
Fri 22nd
To advertise call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
24
Camping with Kids
Camping with kids is really rewarding and doesn’t break the bank! I love it and with space to tear around, roam free, be safe and entertain themselves for hours in the biggest playground ever, kids do too. They also get lots of attention, learn new things, often make new friends, and as a real bonus, they’re usually shattered at the end of the day from all that country air so the grown ups get some peace and quiet to enjoy a glass of wine and a spot of star gazing!
What to take:
Camping enthusiast and mum of three, Debbie Pereira (pictured right with her family) shares her check-list with us: Be prepared for every eventuality... • Even in summer it maybe cold at night so bring lots of covers and warm clothing • Plan meals so you only have to take and store a certain amount of food • Take one or two extra outfits and spare shoes in case of accidents. Don’t forget wellies. • Wet clothes can be pegged onto guy ropes to dry so take a stash of pegs. Or you can make a washing line with string going from your tent to a tree if you are pitched near. • Trug buckets are invaluable! You can bathe your children in them and they can be filled with water and used to keep sealed bottles or containers cool. Grab one at your local DIY or builder’s merchants store. • Take a fully stocked first aid kit containing antiseptic wipes/ cream, sanitiser gel, plasters, bandages, scissors, tweezers and infant paracetamol. DON’T FORGET SUNCREAM! • If you are taking a baby, sterilising tablets are a must to clean bottles, dummies and cutlery. • Bring plenty of wet wipes. They are handy for so many different things! • Small/compact BBQs are ideal for cooking outside meals. And definitely don’t leave home without... • A tent! Preferably with a sewn-in groundsheet to retain the heat and keep the bugs out. Buy a tent slightly larger than you need to ensure you have enough room. Tents with a main living area and a porch are handy for storing equipment and provide shelter if it rains! Pitch your tent on flat ground free from rocks. Camping next to a wall, hedge or near trees acts as protection against the wind and direct sunlight. • A camping stove and gas bottle • Sleeping bags and airbeds or mats - a lot of heat is lost through the ground and there’s nothing worse than a really uncomfortable night’s kip (and tired and grouchy kids!) • Lanterns and torches • Bin bags for rubbish and dirty clothes • Camping pans, kettle, plastic plates, cups, cutlery, knives, chopping board, washing up liquid and lots of tea-towels. • A folding table for dining and preparing food. • Your kids’ scooters or bikes! There’s plenty of opportunity for them to scoot or bike around when camping so if you can fit them in do take them. A ball and other outdoor games are also a good idea.
Where to shop:
Tents and camping equipment are usually sold cheaply in all the bigger supermarkets at this time of year or you could visit the following outdoor specialists for the best gear: Bestbuys Camping Centre: Nene Court, The Embankment, Wellingborough, NN8 1LD White & Bishop: 13-17 Bridge Street, Northampton, NN1 1NH Tel: 01604 230901 Millets: 24, The Market Square, Northampton, NN1 2DF Tel: 01604 621898 Yeomans Outdoors: Wyevale Garden Centre, Newport Pagnell Road, Wootton, NN4 6HP Burcroft Camping: Billing Aquadrome, Crow Lane, Little Billing, NN3 9DA
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25
Where to camp:
If you’re camping with kids for the first time, it’s best to make your adventure a short one and limit travelling times so you can start your holiday with happy offspring! The following local campsites come highly recommended and are all within easy driving distance.
Sacrewell Farm & Country Centre
Thornhaugh, Peterborough, PE8 6HJ Tel: 01780 782254 www.sacrewell.org.uk The country bumpkin in me would rather camp at Sacrewell than stay in a Euro Disney hotel. Gorgeous rural pitches, and once you have paid, the whole farm is your oyster (or should that be rooster?) for your entire stay. You can even have a night off the one-ring gas burner and treat the kids to a home-cooked hearty meal in the Stables Restaurant before retiring for a blissful night’s kip under the stars. The shop sells all the groceries you’ll need (most of which are produced onsite or locally, so super tasty - although not super cheap!) and there is a Saturday night take-away fish ‘n’ chips available to campers during the summer. Open all year. £10 per adult and £7 per child (under 3s free) or a family ticket: £30 per night. 2 nights minimum booking over bank holiday weekends. Prices include entry to the farm park.
Gayton Wood Farm
Gayton, Northampton, NN7 3HG Tel: 01604 858210 It’s hard to find information or pictures for this campsite, but I’ve heard many good things about it. It’s definitely basic, with just cold water (don’t forget the kettle and a bucket bath for your babies) and a toilet on site, but families can pitch a tent near the smallest of the 3 lakes on site and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Helpful friendly owners who allow campfires (please ask permission first and don’t forget the marshmallows!). Stock up with groceries in picturesque canal-side Stoke Bruene or spend a day at Rookery Open Farm (kiddy heaven), both only a 5 minute drive away. Open all year £6 per tent per night.
Cosgrove Park
Billing Aquadrome
Cosgrove, Milton Keynes, MK19 7JP Tel: 01908 563360 www.cosgrovepark.co.uk If you have a caravan or camper van (unfortunately they no longer allow tents), Cosgrove Leisure Park, located on the South Northamptonshire-Buckinghamshire border, is a fantastic campsite for families. With numerous on-site facilities including: a huge children’s play area, outdoor swimming pool, cafe, shop, fish & chip shop, arcade, crazy golf and fishing, children will never be bored. There’s a lovely pub in the village (under 10 minutes walk from the campsite) to grab a pub lunch, and Stoke Bruerne and Rookery Open Farm are only a short drive away.
Crow Lane, Northampton, NN3 9DA Tel: 01604 784948 www.billingaquadrome.com Set in over 200 acres of beautiful countryside on the outskirts of Northampton, Billing is the perfect spot for families who want to feel away from it all, but with the back-up options of a fun fair, splash park and indoor and outdoor play areas for the kids if the weather turns or boredom sets in. £20 per tent per night (min 2 night stay over bank holiday weekends).
Wicksteed Park Kettering, Northants, NN3 9DA
Tel: 01604 784948 www.billingaquadrome.co.uk You can’t go far wrong pitching a tent at Wicksteed for a night or two. With the whole fun of the park (including free playground and catering outlets) and a newly built toilet/shower block it’s a great place to camp with friends. Prices are very reasonable at £15 to £20 per unit for a weekend or midweek stay. For full details and honest reviews for a good selection of campsites in and around Northamptonshire log on to: www.lovecamping.co.uk
To advertise call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
26
Parenting After Parting
Advice from local family law specialists
A relationship breakdown can be stressful, sad and confusing for children. At any age children may feel uncertain about what life will be like, or angry at their parents for separating. Often the children’s needs are forgotten as separation is a highly emotional time for everyone involved. As a parent it’s normal to feel uncertain about how to give your children the right support through a relationship breakdown as it is often uncharted territory. There are ways you can successfully navigate through this unsettling time and help your children emerge feeling loved, secure and confident in what the future holds. What should I tell the children? How can I reassure them it isn’t their fault? When it comes to telling children about separation, many parents freeze up. Try and make this difficult conversation as easy as possible on both you and the children. Preparation is key. If you can anticipate tough questions then carefully think through how you will respond and this way you will be better equipped to help your children handle the news. • Avoid blame – Your children are entitled to know why you are separating but keep it simple and honest. They do not need to know the longwinded reasons. Make sure the children know it is not their fault. • Say “I Love you” - Letting your children know that both you and your partner love them is powerful way of supporting them through the changes. • Address change – acknowledge that some things are going to be different from now on. Let them know that you can work together to deal with each detail as you go. • Seek support -there are lots of people to help you through this time such as organisations, school, family and friends. Don’t be embarrassed about seeking help.
Communication with the other parent
Working amicably with you ex-partner after separation can feel like a tall order but it is an important part of helping your children through this time. It may be incredibly difficult at first and it is a good idea to think of ways to help achieve this. It might be best to start by sending texts or emails as these avoid face to face meetings when emotions can be high.
Do not communicate through the children as this puts unnecessary stress and pressure on them. Don’t discuss adult issues with your children, especially legal issues.
The big picture
If you find yourself, time after time, locked in a battle with your ex about the children, try to step back and look at the bigger picture. If you keep in mind your long term goals - your children’s physical and mental health and your independence - you may be able to avoid many disagreements. Think ahead in order to stay calm.
Grandparents Rights - An Update Under current family law, grandparents do not have any legal right of access to their grandchildren. This is despite the recognised role that grandparents often play in a child’s life. The Grandparents (Access Rights) Bill 2010-2011 seeks to address this issue. Under the new proposals grandparents are to be given legal rights to spend time with their grandchildren. The plans will require separating parents to draw up an agreement which will enable grandparents to keep in touch with their grandchildren. The courts will then have more power to step in if necessary. There is still a long way to go before the proposed changes come into play but it is definitely a step in the right direction for the estimated 1 million children who do not see their grandparents because families have separated or lost touch. Article by Adams Moore Family Law. Please note Adams Moore Family Law has now moved to new premises at: Beethoven House, 32 Market Square, Northampton, NN1 2DF Tel: 01604 633000
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27
Aldwincle Playgroup Aldwincle playgroup is a small village playgroup set in beautiful rural surroundings within the grounds of Trinity Lower School. We take children from 2 years 6 months to school age. Grants are available for those aged from 3 years. All day sessions available for children in their preschool year
To make an appointment to look around or for more information either visit our website or telephone Alison on:
01832 720566
www.aldwincleplaygroupbtik.com To advertise call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
28
Time for Books: Waterstones Book Review
Waterstones have selected another four books for our reader panel to review this issue. As usual a big thank you to Waterstones and all our reviewers.
For Babies... Baby Sees at the Beach By Chez Picthall £4.99
An innovative high-contrast bath book for young babies with captivating beach images. The bold colours and vivid black and white images enthrall very young children. Durable, waterproof pages make this book perfect for in the bath - or on the beach! Our parent said: “My daughter played with this book in and out of the bath. She liked turning the pages and seemed fascinated by the contrasting colours and shapes. It was obviously tasty too because she chewed it loads! A good bath time companion”. Rating: 5/5 Jenny, Mum to Trinity, age 11 months
For Pre-schoolers... Topsy and Tim Start School By Jean & Gareth Adamson £4.99
It’s always scary starting school for the first time, so this reassuring story is an invaluable introduction for children. Follow Topsy and Tim as they learn where to hang their coats, find out all about the classroom and make new friends. Our parent said: “My 4 year old will be starting school in September and he was really interested in this book as the build up to the big day has begun already. I thought it was bright, informative and comforting for him but a little disconcerting for me as I noticed Topsy and Tim have been ‘re-vamped’. They certainly don’t look anything like the Topsy and Tim I remember. I feel like reaching for my pipe and slippers!” Rating: 4.5/5 John, Dad to Toby, age 4
For Toddlers... Maisy Goes Camping By Lucy Cousins
£4.99
When Maisy sets off to go camping in the country, it’s only natural that all her friends come along, too. But they soon find that pitching a tent is not an easy thing to do. Even if they do manage to keep the tent up, there’s the matter of fitting them all in… Our parent said: “My daughter loves the two Maisy books we have at home and as we’re planning to take her on her first camping trip in the summer holidays, it was a very apt read. The pictures are simple and colourful but lovely and the story made us laugh. We both enjoyed it and even though it is quite a bit longer (over 30 pages!) than most other Maisy stories, I managed to keep Amber’s attention right up until the end which is quite an achievement!” Rating: 5/5 Julia, Mum to Amber, age 2
This Season’s Choice The Bear’s Water Picnic by John Yeoman Illustrated by Quentin Blake £5.99
The bear has organised a picnic on the river for his friends. It’s the perfect day and everything is going swimmingly until they are disturbed by a loud croaking noise from among the lily pads... Our parent said: “I was really looking forward to reviewing this book as Quentin Blake’s illustrations take me back to my childhood. The story was sweet and funny but I felt that the bear and his friends could have been more grateful to the noisy frogs in the end. My daughter enjoyed the story and we had a good discussion about it afterwards, but I have to say it was the pictures that did it for me!” Rating: 3/5 Liz, Mum to Isabel, age 3
Waterstones Booksellers Ltd, 72-76 High Street, Kettering, Northants, NN16 8SY Tel: 0843 290 8421. Opening hours: Mon-Sat 9am-5.30pm, Sun 9am-4pm
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29
The Old Garden Studio An affordable treat for you and your friends
Private tea room for small groups Fully catered vintage tea parties Baby friendly area Lovely patio and gardens Enjoy lunch and a gossip in peace with friends & babies in our beautiful private tea room www.theoldgardenstudio.co.uk 07968 222 532 info@theoldgardenstudio.co.uk Grendon, Northants
s
of oe ck Sh to ol S ll ho Fu o Sc t ck
Ba
Funky Lil’ Feet Childrens Shoe Shop Start-rite Babybotte Piedro Aster Tekilou Daisy Root Inch Blue Robeez Geox Superfit Noel Buckle My Shoe (BMS) Lelli Kelly
Party Services To advertise your Party Service here call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
Cha Cha Entertainment Clown or Punch & Judy Show
With over 15 years experience in Mime, Puppets, Ventriloquism and Magic Tricks, you can be sure of a true professional show with audience participation. I’m available for: Birthday Parties, Weddings, Corporate Events, Open Days and Fetes I am fully insured and CRB checked and am also a member of several professional associations. I cover the whole of Northamptonshire and surrounding areas.
Come and have your children’s shoes professionally fitted in our fun and friendly shop. There is a resident podiatrist who can also assist with any special requirements. We also stock Junior Joules clothing. 36 Huntingdon Road, Thrapston, NN14 4NQ Telephone: 01832 734500 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9.00-5.00pm, Sat 9.30-4.00pm
www.funkylilfeet.co.uk
For more information contact David on: 01933 681115 or
Professor Parsnip
07771 748461
www.chachaentertainment.vpweb.co.uk
To advertise call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
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Where to change and feed your baby...
• Public baby changing room in Newlands Centre, nr TK Maxx (have to get key from security) • Kettering Museum • Kettering Library (no nappy disposal though) • Baby changing room in Morrisons • McDonalds
• Fuller Coffee House on Newland Street • Cafe Culture on Silver Street • The Bakers Oven in the Newlands Centre • Costa Coffee on High Street • The George Hotel on Sheep Street (no changing facilties) • Out of town there’s Mocha Mama, catering especially for new mothers
• Mens or ladies public toilets in the Swansgate Centre • The children’s section of Wellingborough Library - 1st floor • Public toilets on Market Street • McDonalds • Baby changing room in Morrisons
• Costa Coffee on Market Street • Wellingborough Library - private room in the children’s section on the 1st floor • McDonalds • Burger King in the Swansgate Centre (no changing facilities)
• Baby changing room next to the public toilets in Willow Place • Public toilets in Corby Cube • McDonalds
• Costa Coffee in Willow Place • Corby Library in Corby Cube - no bottle heating facilities yet though • The café in TJ Hughes • McDonalds
• Baby changing room next to public toilets in Grosvenor Centre • McDonalds in Grosvenor Centre • McDonalds on The Drapery • Ladies toilet on the ground floor of House of Fraser • Baby changing room in Peacock Place Shopping Centre • Parent Room on the 1st floor of H&M on Abington Street
• The cafe, 1st floor of House of Fraser • Marks & Spencer - in the café or the baby changing room, both on 1st floor • BHS - either in the private mother & baby room or the café, both on the 1st floor • Costa Coffee on Abington Street • Café Nero on Abington Street • The café on the 1st floor of Debenhams • Parent Room on the 1st floor of H&M on Abington Street
Northampton
Kettering
The following establishments all welcome mothers breastfeeding or will heat a baby bottles for you and, unless otherwise stated, also have baby changing facilities:
Wellingborough
Where to feed your baby:
The following locations all have a baby changing mat and/or table:
Corby
Where to change your baby:
+
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The new cafe / shop experience, Mon - Sat 10am - 4pm
Glendon Lodge Farm Complex, Kettering, NN14 1QF
Open to all especially the expectant, arrived, exhausted and associates
T: 07929 483 437
www.mocha-mama.co.uk
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31
Home visit portraiture. On location at Mocha Mamas, Kettering. Studio sittings at Cloggies Toy Shop, Market Harborough. Seasonal Location Shoots. Weddings, Portraits, Events & Underwater.....
www.firetreephoto.co.uk Affordable photography without compromising quality. FiretreePhotography, Market Harborough, 01858 440981/07773 280492 firetreephoto@googlemail.com
Muddy Boots Playgroup Jubilee Drive, Walgrave, Northamptonshire, NN6 9PH
Little Miss Gifts Pink and glittery gifts for special little girls
• • • • • • • • • •
We welcome children from 2 years 6 months old Experienced and caring staff We work closely with parents An open plan room with two outdoor play areas Maximum 20 children per session Registered charity, run by parents Government funding for 3 & 4 year olds Childcare vouchers accepted Open Monday to Friday in school term time Morning, afternoon and school day sessions available
For more information, a prospectus or to join our waiting list call:
Visit us online at
www.littlemissgifts.com or visit our shop at Wistow Rural Centre
Kibworth Road, Wistow, Leics, LE8 0QF (5 miles south of Leicester, signed from the A6 at Gt Glen & Kibworth)
01604 781838 Registered Charity Number: 1052702
Fairy dresses, wings, wands, dolls, teddies, bags and much more
Tel: 0116 259 0094 OFSTED URN: 220218
To advertise call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
32
Business Opportunities Opportunities and advice for parents in business and those who would like to be!
PARTYLITE Join Partylite and earn some extra money to help pay for that dream wedding, a family holiday, to pay off the credit cards or just to get out and socialise! Not to mention the free products! Get a free kit worth £300 with no obligation. Why not test drive Partylite today? To find out more, contact:
Lisa Wrigley
Tel: 07957 235293
(your local PARTYLITE representative)
Business Opportunity
the #1 local magazine for parents and carers of 0 to 5 year olds, is now a franchise opportunity Would you like to run your own Time for Tots magazine in your local area? Sp r i n g 2 0 1 0
Interested? Contact us now for an informal, no obligation chat to find out more
Winter 2009
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The Time for Tots franchise offers you the chance to be your own boss with flexible hours to fit around family life, and a high return on those working hours. Full training and ongoing support provided.
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Wicky? Where’s him inside?
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A Super “Time Family Tickets for Tots” 2010 Desk Calendar! for Days Out Pho togr take aph n Pho CK by togr aph y
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Ideas for Family Days Out Easter Activities & EventsNews Local Clubs & Classes Out Family Days UsefulGreat Articles Competitions: Starting Find the Golden School Egg!
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for Tips and Advice n,...and much more Ketteri ng, h, Corby, Rushde Welling boroug Welling boroug Kettering, Thraps h, Corby, Rushde nding Areas Wellingborough, Corby, Rushden, ton and Surrou Ketteri ng, ton and Surrou n, nding Areas Thraps Thrapston and Surrounding Areas
Tel: 0845 6439687 or E-mail: info@timefortots.co.uk Please mention Time for Tots when responding to an advertisement
33
Time for Mum
20% off any treatment
See voucher on ‘Special Offers’ page
We offer a comprehensive range of beauty therapy and holistic treatments in a calm and relaxing environment. We are happy to provide expert advice and treatments.
Mums - Treat yourself to a little pampering this summer. You deserve it!
June offer of the month Shape up for the summer!
Book an inch loss Universal Contour Wrap throughout June, and whilst the wrap is on receive either: a mini facial, eyelash & brow tint*, face & scalp massage or file & cuticle tidy on hands & feet...for FREE! Treatment time is 2hrs 15mins.
Call to book quoting ‘Time for Tots’ Offer valid for appointments in June 2011
* patch test required at least 24hours prior to the treatment
Gift vouchers also available Escape Beauty and Wellbeing 89a Wellingborough Road, Finedon, Northants, NN9 5LG
Tel: 01933 681110 Email: escapebeautyandwellbeingltd@yahoo.co.uk Dermalogica
Mobile Holistic Therapist
Sunspa
Jessica
Jane Iredale
Lash Perfect
Gabriella Ventura Freelance Hairstylist
Feeling tired, stressed, run-down? Then why not treat yourself to a holistic therapy in the comfort of your own home:
Reiki Reflexology Aromatherapy massage
Baby massage
Have your hair cut or styled in the comfort of your own home...why not the kids too? Professional & affordable 5 years experience in a top professional salon Wedding and prom hair
Indian Head Massage Gift Baskets - Natural health & beauty products tailor made to your individual needs using essential oils and herbs
Gift Vouchers also available Contact Vicky, IIHHT, on: Tel: 01604 780505 Mob: 07821 937336
Areas covered: Kettering, Corby, Burton Latimer, Barton Seagrave, Wellingborough and surrounding villages. Further for wedding hair bookings.
Tel: 07860 565834 www.gabriellaventura.com
To advertise call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
34
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35
Special Offers 10% off any drink with this voucher
Voucher valid in August 2011 Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer www.mocha-mama.co.uk
Tel: 07929 483437
Voucher Free 5x7” print.
Admit one child free
when accompanied by a full paying adult Applicable during normal opening hours One voucher per person Voucher valid until 4th September 2011
www.westlodgeruralcentre.co.uk
FREE ENTRY for 1 child with this voucher
VOUCHER ENTITLES BEARER TO PRINT WORTH £18. FOR USE WITH OUR HOME VISIT PORTRAIT SITTING ONLY.
VALID UNTIL THE END OF JUNE 2011.
(CUT OUT AND RETAIN VOUCHER FOR USE)
FiretreePhotography, Market Harborough, 01858 440981/07773 280492 firetreephoto@yahoo.co.uk
Jenny’s Dolphins
Indoor Adventure Play Area Voucher valid Monday to Friday only One voucher per family Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer
www.paulspirates.co.uk
Tel: 01933 679265
Baby & Pre-school swimming lessons
FIRST CLASS FREE
Quote Time for Tots when booking (Not valid on 1 to 1 lessons)
www.jennysdolphins.co.uk
Tel: 07821 646451
TenPin Bowling, Kettering
1 Penny Game! Enjoy a game of 10 pin bowling for 1p with this voucher.
See www.newyorkthunderbowl.com or call 01536 414004 for more details Valid for 1 person for 1 game at any time. Only 1 voucher permitted per booking/lane. Expires 30th Sept 2011.
20% off
any treatment with this voucher Offer valid from 1st June to 31st August 2011 Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer One voucher per person 89a Wellingborough Road, Finedon, Northants, NN9 5LG
Tel: 01933 681110 Email: escapebeautyandwellbeingltd@yahoo.co.uk
BUY 1 GET 1 FREE! On daily wristbands
with this voucher
Cheapest wristband is free Maximum saving £16.50 Not valid on Bank Holiday weekends Not valid in conjunction with any other offer Cannot be used with Tesco Deal vouchers No cash alternative Only one voucher per transaction Photocopies not accepted Voucher valid until 31/8/11 TFT11
To advertise call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
36
Parent & Tot Group Directory Burton Latimer
Irthlingborough
Rhymetime (Burton Latimer) Thursdays 10-11am. Burton Latimer Library. Free. 01536 723357
St Peter’s Under Fives Mondays 2-3pm, term time only. St Peter’s Church, Church Street. Contact 01933 650278 Rhymetime Fridays 2-2.45pm. Irthlingborough Library. Free. 01933 650641
Corby & Villages
Creative Play Drop in Tuesdays 9.30-11.30am. Woodnewton a Learning Community. Contact 01536 265173 First Moves Movement & music for under 5s. Thursdays in term time. 10.15-11.15am or 11.30-12.30am, The Core at Corby Cube. Free. Rhymetime Tuesdays in term time, 10-10.30am or 1111.30am. Corby Library in The Cube. Free Little Angels Tuesdays & Fridays 9.15-11.30am, Thursdays 12-3pm (bring a packed lunch!) The Baptist Church Hall, Rowlett Road. Contact Ann on 01536 394824 Parents & Tots (Corby Old Village) Wednesdays 1.30-2.45pm, term time only. Corby Old Village Primary School. £1. Wilbarston Tots & Tiddlers Mondays 10am-12pm, term time. Wilbarston Village Hall. Contact Sarah on 07730 568300 Kings Cliffe Toy Library & Toddler Group Thursdays in term time, 10-11.30am, £1.50. The Underground Centre, Kings Cliffe Contact Kelly on 01780 470176
Kettering & Villages
The Little Ones Wednesdays 1-2.50pm, Thursdays 9-11.15am, and 1-2.50pm, term time only. Church of Christ The King. £1 per family. 01536 517553 Hawthorn Berries Mondays & Thursdays 9.15-11am, term time only. Hawthorn Primary School. £1 per family. Rhymetime Tuesdays 9.30-10am & 10.30-11am. Free Kettering Library. 01536 512315 St Edwards Mums & Tots Wednesdays 9-11am. St Edwards RC Primary School, Eastleigh Road. £1.20 for 1st child, 30p thereafter. Contact Kim on 01536 391581 St Thomas More Mums & Tots Thursdays 9-10.45am. The school hall, St Thomas More School, Northampton Rd. Term time only. £1.20 1st child, 30p per thereafter. BrambleTots Fridays 10-11.30am. Ise Pavillion. £2 per family. Contact Hayley on 01536 524701 Mawsley Baby & Toddler Group Desborough & Rothwell Thursdays 9.30-11am. The Centre at Mawsley. Rhymetime (Rothwell) £1.50 first child, 50p per child thereafter. Mondays 2.30-3pm, term time only. Rothwell Contact Sarah on 01536 790517 Library. Free. 01536 711880 Pytchley Mums & Tots Twinkle Tots Tuesdays 10-11.30am. Pytchley School Hall. Wednesdays 9.30-11am, term time only. Contact Sally on 01536 799541 Reachout Community Church, School Lane, Hopscotch (Loddington) Rothwell Contact 01933 225525 Thursdays 2.15-3.15pm in term time. Tiny Tots Loddington Village Hall. Contact 07742 664604 Thursdays 2.15-3.15pm, term time only. St Geddington Parents & Tots Giles Church Community Centre. Fridays in term time 9.30-11.30am, Salvation Army Parents & Toddlers Geddington Village Hall. £2 per family. Thursdays in term time 9.30-11am. New Contacts Siobhan 01536 743756 Street, Rothwell. Contact 01536 711298 Toybox Mums & Tots, Broughton Rhymetime (Desborough) Tuesdays in term time 1.30-3pm, Broughton Fridays 10-10.30am, term time only. Village Hall. £1.50 per family. Contact Rebecca Desborough Library. Free. 01536 711880 on 01536 790169 Please mention Time for Tots when responding to an advertisement
Raunds & Stanwick The Stanwick Rainbow Group Tuesdays 1.45-3.15pm. Old School Rooms, Stanwick. £1.50 first child, 50p thereafter Rhymetime Wednesdays 2.15-2.45pm and Thursdays 1111.30am. Raunds Library. Free. 01933 623671 Little Treasures Thursdays 9.30-11am, term time only. St Laurence Church. Donation optional. St Peters Parent & Toddler Group (Raunds) Fridays 9.30-11.30am, term time only. Saxon Hall. £2/family. Contact Sarah 01933 622116
Rushden & Higham Ferrers Bumps & Babes @ Church Every Monday in term time, 10am at St Mary’s Church. Short lively service followed by playtime. £1 per family. 01933 358218. Mums & Tots Tuesdays 10-11.30am. Rushden Full Gospel Church & Christian Centre, 60 High Street South. Contact Linda on 07904 638612 Jelly Babes Wednesdays 9.30-11.30am, term time only. Queen Street Church Hall. £1 per family. Contact Jeanette on 01933 391457 Rhymetime Rushden Library. Alternates - one week Tuesday 10.30-11am, the next week Thursday 2-2.30pm, term time only. 01933 312754. Rhymetime Mondays-babies only (> 12 mths) 2.30-3pm, Tuesdays 2.15-2.45pm, Thursdays 10-10.30am Higham Ferrers Library. 01933 314842. Free. Mugs and Beakers (Mums & Tots) Tuesdays 9-11am at The Bridge (in the grounds of Whitefriars Junior School). 50p per family. Contact Emma on 01933 411393
Thrapston & Villages
Rhymetime Thursdays & Fridays 2-2.30pm. Thrapston Library. Free. 01832 733251 Tiddlers Thursdays 9.30-11am, term time only. Thrapston Baptist Church, 33 Huntingdon Road. £1/family. Contact Tina: 01832 730297 Titchmarsh Babes Mondays 1.30-2.30pm. Titchmarsh Clubroom. £1/family. Contact Judith on 01832 730587 Little Angels (Ringstead) Tuesdays 1.30 - 3pm, term time only. Ringstead
School Hall. £1.30 per family.
Wellingborough & Villages
37
St Mark’s Buggy Club Wednesdays in term time, 1.30-3.00pm in St Mark’s Church Hall, Queensway. Voluntary 50p donation. Contact Joy on 01933 676368. Little Cogs Toddler Group Thursdays 9.30-11.15am term time. Reachout Community Church, Havelock Street. £1 1st child, 50p after (> 6 mths). 01933 225525 Little Cogs Active Tots Thursdays 1.15-2.45pm. Reachout Community Church, Havelock Street. £1.50 for 2-5 year olds, 50p for 6 mths to 2 yrs. 01933 225525 Drop-in Sessions at Croyland Children’s Centre All sessions are FREE. Just drop-in: Mondays - “Singalong Together”, 9.30-10.30am Tuesdays - “Mini Gym”, 10-11am & 2-3pm Wednesdays - “Stay & Play”, 9.30-11am Wednesdays - “Baby Stay & Play” 1.30-3pm Fridays - “Conversation Group”, 9.30-11am Fridays - “Young Parents Group”, 12-2pm Croyland Road, Tel: 01933 279681 Little Fishes Fridays 1.30-3pm. Our Lady’s Infant School Hall, Henshaw Road. £1/family. Contact Nancy on 01933 381168 Rhymetime Wednesdays 10-10.30am & 11-11.30am. Wellingborough Library. Free. 01933 225365 Mucky Pups (Messy Play) Tuesdays 9.30-11am St Andrews Church Hall, Berrymore Road. £2.50.Contact 01933 272119 The Rascals Music Session Fridays 9.45-10.45am St Andrews Church Hall, Berrymore Road. £2 1st child, £1.25 2nd child. Little Cogs Toddler Group (Irchester) Fridays 10-11.30am. Reachout Community Church, Irchester. £1 st child, 50p thereafter. Contact Nicola on 01933 225525 Irchester BATS (Babies and Toddlers) Wednesdays 9.15-11.15am, term time only. Irchester Village Hall. £1 1st child, 50p thereafter. Contact Nichola on 01933 410866 Little Fishes (Little Harrowden) Every other Wednesday in term time, 2-3pm, Little Harrowden Church. Contact Heather on 01933 678225 We do our best to ensure all information is correct at the time of going to press. If however you know or discover that some details are incorrect, please let us know then we can amend them for the next issue.
To advertise call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
38
Pink & Blue Baby World
58 High Street, Daventry, NN11 4HU 01327 705900 www.pinkandbluebabyworld.co.uk
We also stock: Emmaljunga, Silver Cross, Jane, Concord, Recaro,Quinny, Maclaren, Mamas & Papas, Emile et Rose.... ....and many more
Rookery Open Farm
ay at d all e r G for ly out fami the
Stoke Bruerne
Fun down on the farm Meet the animals
New
for this season A huge three story kids indoor play structure not to be missed!
Large pets corner Bouncy Castle/Go Karts Indoor/outdoor play areas Picnic area/tearooms Birthday parties - Special Events
Rookery Open Farm, Stoke Bruerne, Towcester, Northants, NN12 7SJ. www.rookeryopenfarm.com
OPENING TIMES Daily 10am-5pm (Closed Tuesdays)
Tel: 01604 864855
Just off the A508 midway between Northampton and Milton Keynes, on the edge of Stoke Bruerne. Within walking distance of the canal & locks.
Please mention Time for Tots when responding to an advertisement
39
Win Win Win!
Please remember to include your name and address with your entry. All entries will be put into a draw, and the winner(s) will be the first correct entries drawn at random in each competition.
e Ball
h Spot t
Win 1 of 4 Family Bowling Tickets
to New York Thunderbowl
For your chance to win, simply spot the bowling ball (pictured above) hidden somewhere in this issue, (excluding this page) and then email the page number it’s on together with your name and address, to: info@timefortots.co.uk or post it to: Time for Tots, PO Box 7409, Kettering, NN16 6GR NB A Family Ticket is valid for 4 people (at least 1 of whom must be a child)
Closing date: 31st July 2011 www.newyorkthunderbowl.com
Win a Family Ticket
to Wistow Maze
For your chance to win, simply tell us what shape the maze is in this year. Email your answer, together with your name and address, to: info@timefortots.co.uk or post it to: Time for Tots, PO Box 7409, Kettering, NN16 6GR We also have 4 runners-up prizes of a child’s ticket to give away. Closing date: 31st July 2011
www.wistow.com
Win a Bumbo Baby Sitter
courtesy of Waitrose Food & Home Rushden
Waitrose Food and Home Rushden have a great range of products in their Toys and Nursery Section from pushchairs to baby monitors, baby toys to children’s clothes. Waitrose Rushden are giving readers a chance to win a Bumbo Baby Sitter in pink or blue (worth £34.95) The Bumbo Baby Sitter, made from moulded polyurethane foam, gently moulds around baby’s body to support them in a comfortable sitting position. Suitable from when your baby can support his or her own head to 12 months. For your chance to win a Bumbo Baby Sitter simply tell us something else that Waitrose Rushden sell in their Toys and Nursery Department. Email your answer to info@timefortots.co.uk or post it to: PO Box 7409, Kettering, NN16 6GR. Please remember to include your name, address and phone number with your entry. Closing date 31/07/11.
Waitrose Food & Home
Crown Park, Rushden, Northants, NN10 6AR Tel: 01933 355099 www.waitrose.com/rushden Only persons aged 16 years or over can enter. One entry per household. The winners will be the first correct entries drawn at random in each competition. No cash alternatives. Any personal data provided will not be shared with any organisations external to Time for Tots, except the company supplying the prize.
To advertise call 0845 6439687 or e-mail info@timefortots.co.uk
2 Games of Bowling & a Jumbo Hot dog
just £4.99 per child
MAXIMUM 6 CHILDREN PER VOUCHER VALID MON-FRI FROM 11AM - 5PM
**STAR OFFER**
FAMILY OF 4, 5 OR 6 FOR £10 per game
Includes 1 game and shoe hire. Excludes Fri-Sat 6pm - Close
Voucher to be surrendered at time of redemption. Valid until 2nd Sept 2011
Voucher to be surrendered at time of redemption. Valid until 2nd Sept 2011
FAMILY OF 4 FOR
£1.99 Kids Meal!
JUST £15
Includes 1 game and shoe hire. Excludes Fri-Sat 6pm - Close Voucher to be surrendered at time of redemption. Valid until 2nd Sept 2011
2 Games for £6.50! Add a 3rd game
per child
Just £1 extra Not valid Fri-Sat 6pm – Close
£7.50 per Adult
Voucher to be surrendered at time of redemption. Valid until 2nd Sept 2011
Enjoy a Wimpy Kids Meal for only £1.99!
Maximum of 2 Meals Per Voucher. Check opening times before your visit. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Voucher to be surrendered at time of redemption. Valid until 2nd Sept 2011
2 Games of Bowling & a Jumbo Hot dog
just £4.99 per child
MAXIMUM 6 CHILDREN PER VOUCHER VALID DAILY FROM 11AM - 5PM
Voucher to be surrendered at time of redemption. Valid until 2nd Sept 2011