Toddle About Northamptonshire Summer 2012

Loving life with little ones

July-Sept 2012

FR

EE

northamptonshire

YOuR LOCAL Bump, BABY & TODDLER mAGAzinE

* Groups & Classes * Special Offers * Fun Articles

* Great Days Out * Competitions * Business Directory

Subscribe for FREE online at www.toddleabout.co.uk Covering Northampton, Towcester, Brackley & surrounds  1 Subscribe for FREE to ToddleDaventry, About at www.toddleabout.co.uk/subscribe

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Applies to new registrations from 2nd July 2012 until 28th September 2012

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&

Hello

welcome

to the summer issue of Toddle About in Northants!

There are loads of things going on for little ones this summer - you’ll get plenty of ideas in our What’s New? section on pages 4-6, as well as being able to choose from the hundreds of groups and classes that we have listed for you in the Daily Activity Planner from page 37.

Please remember that a lot of groups and classes stop for all or part of the summer holidays, so we strongly urge you to call ahead before dropping in to any of them. Our listings have all been checked and marked with a T or H to show if they run in Term Time and/or Holidays, but things can still change so it’s always worth calling first.

If you find the Daily Activity Planner useful, try searching our online directory of groups and classes at www.toddleabout.co.uk/directory.

Not only are there even more classes for you online, but they will be listed in order of distance from your home and you can filter results by the day, time, age of your child and even cost. So it’s really handy!

We hope you enjoy this issue of Toddle About - please let us know what you think by emailing info@toddleabout.co.uk. Have a great summer!

Loving life with little ones,

Tim, Ruth & Eloise Contact us on 0845 643 2483 or info@toddleabout.co.uk

Contents What’s New?

4-6

Indoor Play Time

7

Baby Expo MK & Days Out 8-9 Heading Off To School Shop About

10 13-14

How to Camp with Children 17 Toddle Models

19-20

Planning The Perfect Party

23

The Computer Debate 24-25 Special Offers

26-29

Review: Sandy Yoga

30

Have a Better Birth

31

Baby Cafe Re-Opens Mums Making It

33 34-35

Baby Swimming Q&A

36

Daily Activity Planner

37-53

Toddle About Directory

54

PS. You can subscribe to Toddle About for FREE at www.toddleabout.co.uk/subscribe and we’ll post a copy to your door as soon as it is ready every quarter. Yes, it really is free!

Cover Picture: Darcy Watson, aged 13 months Thank you to Mark Betts Photography in Northampton (p. 33) for the gorgeous front cover picture of our Toddle Models competition winner. Win your child on our front cover! Find out how on p. 20

This furry little fella is Charlie!

He’s hiding all over the magazine - why not see if your little one can find him while you read?

8,500 copies of Toddle About are distributed every quarter around Northampton, Daventry, Towcester & Brackley areas.

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information in Toddle About is accurate and correct, we cannot guarantee that this is so and neither Toddle About nor Tim Freed can accept any liability for loss, damage or problems arising from any errors, omissions or inaccuracies in content, nor from actions taken by readers based on information or opinions presented in advertisements or throughout the magazine. Images and information supplied by 3rd parties have been accepted in good faith and all liability for any legal transgression including breach of copyright remains with the supplying parties.

Toddle About, PO Box 1010, Bugbrooke, NN7 3WD

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Family picture courtesy of PixiFoto

This is a bumper edition for you! We have packed in more features than ever before, more groups and classes - and more special offers than ever before too - 58 offers over four pages to be precise (p. 26-29)!

Our new layout makes it easier to browse through them now as well.

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What’s

?

New

Key to each area:

New and wonderful stuff for bumps, babies & toddlers in the Northamptonshire area Towcester

BabyExpo Milton Keynes ~ the Prem ium Parenting Event for the Region ~

thecentre:mk September 29th & 30th

With Headline Sponsors DaddyNat al & BabyNatal, special guest Humphrey from Humphrey’s Corner and TV’s parentin g experts including Annabel Karmel you won’t want to miss the region’s bigg est and most exciting baby show and pare nting event!

Meet 100+ exhibitors from throughou t the UK and enjoy loads of give-aways, offer s and show promotions + a packed entertain ment programme for big and little visitors alike! See www.babyexpobabyshow.co.uk for more! See p.9

New Football Classes in Northampton

Club Futsal are new football style coaching sessions in Northampton for boys and girls aged 2½ - 15 years. Club Futsal classes teach children futsal skills in a fun-filled, highly motivational environment without any pressure. Classes help to improve children’s football ability, social skills, physical well-being, self-esteem and confidence.

Played with a smaller ball with less bounce than a regular football, Futsal develops technique and skill rather than size, strength and power. Many of the top players in the world played Futsal in their youth and credit it with supporting their football development.

Classes run on Wednesdays in Wootton Fields. Call Paul on 0116 407 0700 quoting ‘Toddle About’ to book. New members can win a Full Kit or a Ball. www.clubfutsaluk.co.uk. See p. 38

Bump, Bambini & Beyond Fun Day s

10 am -12 noon, 29th July & 26th August 2012 Kings Sutton Memorial Hall, OX1 7 3PG. For 2 hours come and take part in mini taster classes by a variety of groups, and get to do it as a family at the weekend. Also there retail and craft stalls, with fun activities for the children. Suita ble for newborns to pre-schoolers. Just £2 per child whic h includes a drink & biscuit / piece of fruit. www.bumpbambiniandbeyond.co.u k

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Daventry

Northampton

Summer Swimming Courses

Over the summer, Active Baby Company will be running short 3-week summer swimming courses for 2 months to pre-schoolers on Monday and Friday mornings at Cripps General Hospital Recreation Centre, Northampton elo Hotel in Barc and on Wednesday mornings at start in the week will ses cour ming swim Daventry. The of one lesson a ist commencing 30th July and will cons per child. To £27 costs se cour Each s. week for 3 week 66.

8260 book, contact Denise on 01604 See p.39 www.activebabycompany.co.uk.

Musical Minis Summer Sessions

Musical Minis will be doing two Satu rday DROP IN sessions in August: Sat 11th Aug - 10.30am: Grange Park Pavilion, Northampton.

Sat 18th Aug - 10.30am: The Meth odist Church, Silver St, Stony Stratford.

Each class is £4.25 and £3 for siblings.

Spaces limited. These classes will be a great opportunity for full time working mum s, dads and grandparents to enjoy the fun of the usual weekly classes. www.musicalminis.co.uk.

See p.49

NCT Cheeky Monkeys Tea Parties

ust In Northampton: Saturday 11 Aug The Elgar Centre, Upton

Activities will include face painting, mini messy play, singing and dancing, a ing zoo, a BBQ, stalls and a raffle with excit in ded inclu is ren child for h Lunc s. prize adults, 2 to (up £6.00 of the family ticket price after). there on pers per £2.50 12, r 2 children unde k co.u or see Contact nctcheekymonkeys@yahoo. info. their Facebook page for more -12:30pm.

In Daventry: Weds 1st August, 10am

Close, NN11 4FB Daventry Methodist Church, Golding

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Traditional Toy Sh op

Comes to Northa

Cloggies Toys is co nts ming at Glendon Lodge Farm Complex near to Kettering. Cloggies is a traditional toyshop, bringing you the best timele ss, original and educational toys.

A small, family-run indepen dent toy shop, Cloggies wi ll be close to Mocha Mama wi th plenty of free parking an d in-store specials. See p. 15 Cloggies Toys, Jig saw Barn, Glendon Lodge Farm Complex, Kettering, NN 14 1QF. www.clogg iesonline.co.uk

d Entertainer ‘Lovely’ an s Balloon

Her Amazing

ty Lovely, the children’s par ing entertainer, is busy dream ties par her for s me the up new nshire’s to entertain Northampto working children! She’s presently me The ate on a fantastic Pir would and s!) rtie Hea me h (Ooh-A party n’s ldre chi love to make your saw her at one of her you If . cial spe y aril rdin extrao l know that Lovely’s wil you es, jubilee appearanc – genuinely - out are ldren balloon gifts for the chi er seen balloons nev e “I’v of s crie of this world and rd at every hea be ays like this before!” will alw d to work cte sele n bee also ’s party. Excitingly, she ies who pan com ty par with one of the UK’s top famous! So and rich the for ties par provide children’s for your ent inm erta y ent to book a slice of celebrit call 01327 , es!) pric y brit ele N-c child’s party (at NO 66. See p. 23 360909 or 077725429

Unlimited Holiday Play at Hullabaloo Hullabaloo, the children’s play centre on Gladstone Rd (01604 595530) is open from 9.30am – 6.30pm, every day, all summer long. A £20.00 summer holiday season ticket is available for unlimited play for the whole holiday. And every week day at 4pm, the disco lights and music will be turned on to get the play centre buzzing! A free glow bangle will be given to every child and that will be your chance to enjoy freshly ground coffee, a range of teas, homebaked cake and cookies, or even a homemade meal.

Or treat the kids and give yourself an evening off – kids’ meals, at £3.10 include healthy options such as pasta topped with homemade sauce. See p.7

Classes Running Over Summer!

Summer is a wonderful time of year, but it’s also the time when a lot of groups and classes STOP. And you can be forgiven for thinking that everything stops - but it doesn’t! This August, you can still enjoy classes with:

• Active Baby Company - Swimming courses. See opposite and p. 39 • Club Futsal - Football Classes. See p. 38 • Gymbugs Wacky Wednesdays. See p. 45 • Kids Kitchen - Cooking Classes for Children. See p. 43 • Lazy Daisy Birth Preparation Classes. See p. 31 • Little Kickers - Football Classes. See p. 40 • Music Bugs - Thursdays at Hardingstone Village Hall 10am from 16th Aug. See p. 39 • Musical Minis Summer Sessions. See opposite and p. 49 • Musical Monkeys Classes. See p. 50 • Natural Bootcamp Fitness Sessions. See p. 41 • Open Stage Sensory/Dance/Drama/ Singing Classes. See p. 43 • Sandy Yoga - Pregnancy and Postnatal Yoga and Massage. See p. 30 • Yoga Tigers. See p. 43. (NOT Monday 31st July & Monday 6th July. Older siblings welcome).

Your local Sure Start Children’s Centre will also be running some sessions over summer see details in the Daily Activity Planner

We recommend calling before attending any group over the summer!

Brand New PAY AS YOU GO Nursery

!

Shutlanger Village Hall near Towc ester The brand new Robin’s Nest Children’s Pay As You Go Nursery is here and is saving parents money. It’s a fantastically honest concept where you only pay for the time your child attends nursery. No paying for holidays or sick days taken - and no registration fees. Based in a lovely rural setting, Shutlanger Village Hall, child ren will have lots of fun learning through play, from their baby unit up to their pre-school area. 15 hour s free child care per week for the over 3s. See p.47 . Contact Jasmin: robinsnestchildrensnursery @gmail.com.

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www.What’s New... .co.uk More

New Online Store for Pre-Loved Children’s Clothes and Shoes: Gracious Souls

Summer Activity Wacky Wednesdays

From GymBugs, Wacky Wednesdays is an opportunity for children under 5 to burn off times. Whether some energy during school holiday can climb, ren child ide, outs ng raini or y sunn it’s bounce on or s, beam on nce swing on bars, bala between the wish they as long as for es pett tram 3pm. Parents hours of 10am - 12midday or 1pm t our fully whils relax and sit or fun, the in join can help the hes coac ics nast qualified British Gym gymnastics our on skills new ver disco ren child ren over one. equipment. Prices are £4.00 for child on. See p. 45 Cott Far , Cres orpe 56-58 Rothersth

Musical Monkeys Fun Day Saturday 28th July, Silverstone

Family Workshops at Royal & Derngate

If you’re looking for a fun day out with the kids on Saturday 28th July, then head on over to New Rookery Farm in Silverstone (NN12 8UP) from midday onwards. Musical Monkeys are hosting one of their famous Fun Days, with BBQ, Pony Rides, Bouncy Castles, Stalls AND a new sporty event Toddlympics. Entry £2.50 per person (under 6 mths free), including free soft drink, unlimited bouncy castle use and Musical Monkeys entertainment. Visit www.musical-monkeys.com for more info. See p. 50

Baby & Me Event

6th August, 6 - 8pm

parents, giving This is a special event for expectant you will be you advice and help on key decisions present on: will rts Expe . baby new making for your ces choi pram and * Pushchairs mattresses and * Essential nursery furniture, cot ce advi ty safe the latest sleep ce * Car safety and car seat fitting advi ce. advi * Bra fitting s can only be This is a limited ticket only event. Place hampton Nort the ing booked by visiting or phon 50. Light 6081 4 0160 , Park il Reta s Jame St. store in p.12 See . ided prov bag refreshments and a gift

Brackley Baby Fayre: 16th Septem

ber

An exciting event for mums to be, new mums, babies and their families, with exhib itors such as nurseries, maternity services, groups, classes, shopping and much more.

Don’t miss it!

Brackley Leisure Centre, Springfiel d Way. NN13 6JJ 11am - 3pm, Sun 16th September 2012. See p. 8

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New for 2012, Gracious Souls is the new secure shopping site for trendy, high quality and affordable nearly new children’s clothing and shoes, for ages 0-5 years.

Gracious Souls was created simply because children grow so quickly! Their clothing and footwear needs are continuous and change with age and the seasons - and Gracious Souls founder Cath Bagnall wanted to provide parents and carers with an alternative to shopping on the high street which can be expensive and time consuming. See p. 15 Visit www.gracioussouls.co.uk to see what’s on offer.

Sunday 15 July 2012

11.30am-12.30pm - Petite Proms (2-5 yr olds) 1-2:30pm - Prom Party! (6-13 yr olds) These family workshops are with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and will include songs, musical games and a chance to talk to the players about life in the orchestra, as well as using their help to create your very own piece. Be warned however, adults will need to join in too! No instrumental skills are necessary, but if you can play, please do bring along your instrument.

Tickets: £2.50 per child – call 01604 624811 to book.

New Little Kickers Classes (for 18 mths - 2½ yrs)

, Little Due to their phenomenal popularity Kicks Little new two hed launc Kickers have years classes for children aged 18 mths - 2.5 ): trial! free a for t’ Abou le (Quote ‘Todd 0am Abbey Centre, Hunsbury: Friday 10:4 9:00am Daventry Leisure Centre: Saturday www.littlekickers.co.uk. See p. 53

New ‘Mummies Birth Buddy’ Worksh op

‘Going Up’ is a new workshop for thos e women who wish to focus on the tone of their pelvi c floors. The workshop is suitable for all women (young girls to mature ladies). It focuses on tonin g the pelvic floor using specific techniques. Parti cipants have commented on how easy the postures are and how quickly they became aware of their pelvic floor. They felt that they had been re-awakened.

Cost: £35 per person includes light refreshments www.mummiesbirthbuddy.co.uk.

See p. 30

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Indoor Play Time

Stay & Play ...All Day! Our Tots sessions run from 9.30am - 2.30pm Tuesday to Friday during school term times.

Children: 12 months—4 years £2.75 includes a cup of squash and a biscuit.

Babies: 12 months and under £1 or FREE if accompanied by an older sibling.

• FREE ample parking • Seating area • Baby facilities • Restaurant Talk to us about our Tots Loyalty card Visit Berzerk at weekends and school holidays and pay the Tots price!

4 Clayfield Close, Moulton Park, Northants, NN3 6QF Tel: 01604 647213

www.berzerkleisure.co.uk Subscribe for FREE to Toddle About at www.toddleabout.co.uk/subscribe

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www.

Fantastic Days Out

.co.uk

Come and join the fun at the Canal Museum Step back in time and learn more about 200 years on inland waterway use and heritage.

A trip around the museum, housed in a delightfully restored corn mill, will give you a fascinating and colourful insight into canals with floors of exhibits and an audio tour of the canal is included.

Open: April 1st to 31st October, 10am to 5pm Excellent shop on site and Waterside café serving teas, coffee and cakes.

2 for 1 voucher see centre pages

Just off the A508 between Milton Keynes & Northampton, NN12 7SE.

A MAGICAL SHOW PACKED FULL OF SINGING AND DANCING WED 11 – SAT 14 JULY TICKETS £10-£16.50

Tel: 01604 862229 www.stokebruernecanalmuseum.org.uk

Box Office 01604 624811

www.royalandderngate.co.uk

RD0078 Angelina Ballerina toddle about.indd 1

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31/05/2012 17:02

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Baby Expo

!

MK

Head to thecentre:mk September 29th and 30th for BabyExpo Milton Keynes ~ the Premium Parenting event for the Region!

With Exclusive Headline Sponsors DaddyNatal & BabyNatal and welcoming special guests Humphrey from Humphrey’s Corner and parenting experts as seen on TV, you won’t want to miss the Region’s biggest and most exciting baby show and parenting event!

Meet Jo Tantum, number 1 baby and toddler sleep expert as seen on Daybreak, Headline Sponsor Dean Beaumont - the UK’s only male qualified ante-natal teacher as seen on The One Show and Sue Atkins, best-selling author and parenting expert as seen on ITV’s This Morning!

Also joining us will be Annabel Karmel – number 1 parenting author and leading expert on baby food & nutrition as seen on CiTV - all who will be sharing their top tips and parenting advice and experience.

WOW play zone, face-painters, messy play, fun demo classes and the chance to meet and have your photo taken with Humphrey from Humphrey’s Corner

There will be loads to keep little ones amused too with the WOW play zone, facepainters, messy play, fun demo classes and the ‘My Lunch Kids Pit Stop’ with healthy, creative Lunch Boxes – as well as the chance to meet and have your photo taken with Humphrey! BabyExpoMK is also delighted to be supporting ‘Little Lives’ - Milton Keynes Hospital Neo-Natal Appeal.

Main stage sponsor two-d Studios will be hosting family photography onsite with free mini-sessions AND don’t miss the ‘Face of BabyExpo’ competition to win a fantastic prize worth nearly £500! Be part of The UK’s Biggest ‘Ultimate Baby Shower’ on Saturday afternoon, drop by the ‘Healthier Together’ stand to learn more about the review of NHS healthcare services across the South East Mids and visit the mumandworking flexible working zone, JUNO Natural Parenting Zone and ‘Innovation Alley’ showcasing exciting new products!

See more at www.babyexpobabyshow.co.uk Entrance is free BUT if you pre-register you will enter the fantastic prize draw and receive a free Show Guide*. There are also a strictly limited number of exclusive ‘VIP Shopper’ tickets. Special exhibiting rates are also available - email mel@whatson4.co.uk

You can meet over 100 exhibitors from WIN all over the UK to include babywear boutiques, designer buggies, legal services, fantastic prizes See you at BabyExpoMK in Sept – you’ll be in good company! *while stocks last naming ceremonies, nurseries, kids classes worth over and activities, 4d scans, language coaching, Enjoy an expert bra-fitting, book an educational and award-winning books the and toys, midwives, designer maternity & ante-natal course, get pampered at till shop e, Zon per nursing wear and much more! There will Yummy Mummy Pam els Ang rt Hea the be amazing prize competitions with Humphrey’s t mee you drop, come and on for Corner, Ella’s Kitchen, BabyBjorn, The Ultimate Baby at the Heart stand and find inspirati Shower, Fisher Price and other great names and ! gifts s stma Chri zing ama loads of give-aways, offers and show promotions.

£2,000

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Heading off

to School

kindly written by staff at Akeley Wood School, Wicken, Nr Deanshanger

By Tanya Sumner, Reception Teacher for Akeley Wood Junior School

Going to school for the first time is a big but very exciting step in every child’s life.

It can be a bit scary or even stressful for both parent and child, especially if it is their first experience of school. However, preparation and knowledge can ease some of the anxiety and make the first experience of school a happy one.

sure that they will be able to loosen and fasten buttons/zips by themselves.

Help your child become as independent as possible. Toilet train them, if appropriate, or make sure that they can flush and wash their own hands.

Teach them to take off and put on their own coats and shoes or boots. Speak to your child’s teacher to

At Akeley Wood School, we suggest you start talking about school a few weeks before your child is due to start. Always keep the conversation positive by telling them about all the positive and exciting things about school. Parents attend a “New to School Evening” the term before they start and will have pictures and photos to share with their child. It is important to listen to your child and answer any questions they may have as honestly as you can.

Children are also invited to several sessions in their new class before they start and get to meet staff and familiarise themselves with their new surroundings.

This is obviously also a good springboard for further discussions at home.

After any school visits, find out if there was someone your child liked to play with. Possibly arrange a play date during the summer. This will make sure that not all faces are unfamiliar on your child’s first day.

Or ensure your child has regular contact with other children as this will help them learn how to make friends and to share.

Start Towards the end of the summer, buying and start establishing a school time trying on routine. Have a fixed bed and getting up time. Encourage them uniforms to get dressed and have breakfast.

Start buying the snack containers and drink bottles they may need for school. Children love being involved in choosing these. Make sure that your child is able to open and close these unaided. Start buying and trying on uniforms. Even if your child goes to school in casual clothing, make

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find out what the expectations are and let them know what your child struggles with.

Start establishing a school time routine

Make sure that you have allowed plenty of time on the first day. When you leave your child for the first time at school, let them know you are going and leave quickly. Sneaking out while your child is not looking will make the transition even more difficult. All children take time to adapt to a new school, some longer than others. Teachers and classroom assistants help many children adapt every year; it is a good idea to listen to and try their advice.

Always tell teachers if you are concerned about any aspects of your child’s settling in and they will be more than happy to advise and support you.

For more information on the junior school or nursery at Akeley Wood, call 01908 555803 or email: joanne.crosse@akeleywoodschool.co.uk

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Visit us in-store!

Mothercare is the UK’s number one retailer for Prams, Pushchairs, Car Seats, Baby Clothes and Maternity wear.

Unit 3b, St James Retail Park, Northampton. NN1 1EE

Tel: 01604 608 150 www.mothercare.co.uk ELC is the place for toys, games and puzzles. From baby toys to outdoor toys

14 Market Walk, Abington Street, Northampton, NN1 2DP

Tel: 01604 626 256 www.elc.co.uk

Shirelings toyshop

Wooden Toys for Preschool & Toddler Visit us and browse our wide selection of imaginative and traditional toys, books, puppets and much more.

Heart of the Shires Shopping Village, Watling St, Nr. Weedon, NN7 4LB

Tel: 01327 342263 www.goawayandplay.co.uk

10% OFF any products in the shop (see voucher in centre pages) Not valid in conjunction with other offers. Valid until 30/09/12.

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Shop

About

!

The newest, coolest, and most fun products that you’ll just love.

Look out for our discount vouchers in the centre pages to use on some of the selected products Starting School with Max & Millie Price: £5.99

Max and Millie is a delightful series of board books for toddlers, from Usborne Books, the Top Children’s Publisher 2012.

Movix Travel System

Price: £570

Movix has been created with contented babies in mind with an adaptable design that goes the extra mile.

The simple repetitive text and adorable illustrations makes these books perfect for sharing.

‘Max and Millie are two appealing toddlers who encounter just the same problems as all toddlers. They are reassuring reads for little ones, as they learn that others have the same problems and learn to overcome them with a little help... Friendly, likeable characters will appeal to children and the simple text reads aloud well.’ Parents in Touch To view the entire collection please visit www.thebookballoon.co.uk and contact Heidi on 07739 287168 to order your copies. Get 10% off orders over £10 with the voucher in our centre pages.

SnugglBundl Blanket

Price: £35.96

The SnuggleBundl blanket is a fantastic invention that helps you to move your sleeping baby with ease.

It works in a similar way to a hammock, pulling up around the baby to support the head, neck and spine with a padded hood that carefully protects the baby’s crown.

• Move your baby without bending, twisting or straining your back.

• Move your sleeping baby easily without waking them • Ideal if your baby is asleep in the car and you want to transfer them into the house or the pushchair • Helps mums who are recovering from baby’s birth, especially c-section.

Buy from www.toddleoff.co.uk. Find special offers for Toddle About readers on the Toddle Off website!

Making your life easier...

• Easy to use, functional & stylish with a great choice of colours • Comfortable, portable carry cot is suitable for occasional overnight sleeping • Practical 3-position seat offers forward & parent-facing options • Converts easily to a travel system with a Maxi-Cosi® infant car seat.

• Choose up to 50 different colour combinations to personalise your pushchair.

• Includes change bag, cosytoe, weathershields, harness pads, removable covers, seat pad, carry cot. (optional car seat +£130).

Buy from Mothercare, Unit 3B, St James Retail Park, Northampton, NN1 1EE Telephone: 01604 608150 www.mothercare.com

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About

Memento Boxes

!

Price: £10

Memento boxes come flat packed so are fantastic for sending to loved ones on special occasions.

Once made up (using the self adhesive tabs) they make the perfect place to hold all your treasured memories. There are four designs (Christmas, Really Useful, Wedding and Baby Box (above) which is unisex). It has a magnetic lid and beautiful ribbon to show case the finished box.

Dimensions: 340 x 245 x 95mm (made up). www.phoenix-trading.eu/web/charlotte.

See voucher in centre pages for your chance to win a memento box!

Baby Shade Pool

Price: £16.00

Le Toy Van Barbarossa Pirate Ship

Price from: £45

Fabulous wooden pirate ship with three Budkins wooden pirates to provide a realistic pirate play set for youngsters.

An ideal gift for stimulating imagination & pretend play at excellent value. Key features: • Skull & crossbones fabric sails which glow in the dark • Firing cannon with cannonball • Crows nest with elastic rope ladder • Retractable anchor • Plank • Three wooden Budkins pirates with flexible features & detailed costumes Buy from Shirelings Toyshop at Heart of the Shires Shopping Village, Watling St, Nr. Weedon, NN7 4LB or online at www.goawayandplay.co.uk. Get 10% off with special offer voucher in our centre pages.

Teamson Potty Chairs

Price: £59.99

Every little prince and princess needs to have a throne! These hand-painted, wooden potty chairs make potty training loads of fun.

Baby shade pool with a quilted bottom for extra comfort and an adjustable sunshade to follow the sun.

Can be used indoors with play balls and outdoors with water. From 12 months onwards.

Visit Early Learning Centre,14 Market Walk, Northampton, NN1 2DP Tel: 01604 626256 www.elc.co.uk

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Coming in a prince or princess theme, each has a toilet paper holder and magazine rack for the ultimate potty experience. Just lift the lid and a potty can be placed underneath the hidden hole – replace the lid for a fantastic role play accessory.

Dimensions: L61cm x W28.3cm x H64.8cm Visit Cloggies Toys at Jigsaw Barn, Glendon Lodge Farm Complex, Kettering, Northamptonshire. NN14 1QF or online at www.cloggiesonline.co.uk, Use voucher in centre pages or code ‘jigsaw’ online to get 10% off!

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More than a rein...

it is a Safety System The Boomerein The Boomerein is the first ever hands-free rein, giving you and your child freedom whilst keeping everyone safe.

The retractable rein clips easily between you and your child, attaching to adjustable belts around your waist. Then you can carry on using both hands to get on with your day.

Add extra children easily!

Perfect for siblings & childminders.

ONLY £15.99 - order online today!

www

HappyHappyHappy

co

uk

Fun, vibrant stick on name labels perfect for kids of all ages durable and dishwasher safe pack of 40 labels ONLY - £6.95 free p+p

commission paid to schools and nurseries

stick-on, sew-in or iron-on name labels making it easy for your child to identify their property

www.koolkangaroos.com 0800 083 9190

Label It - Don’t Lose It!

Psst ..... Have you heard about

www.gracioussouls.co.uk The UK’s Largest Collection of Pre-loved Children’s Clothing Gracious Souls, a Rugby based company, sells high quality nearly new and new childen’s clothing and shoes, aged 0-5 years.

Jeans, jackets, dresses, skirts, shorts, tops, swim wear, shoes, trainers and much more.

All brands including Clarks, Gap, Monsoon, next and Ted Baker.

Visit www.gracioussouls.co.uk for affordable clothing for all occasions Tel: 01788 542198 (Monday – Friday 08.30am – 4.00pm) Web: www.gracioussouls.co.uk | Email: info@gracioussouls.co.uk Subscribe for FREE to Toddle About at www.toddleabout.co.uk/subscribe

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How to... Camp with Children Advice from parents who know how to have fun holidays with little ones

With the arrival of summer, some of you may be thinking about a camping holiday. We asked Amy Jenkins at Toddle Off to put together her top tips for camping with a baby or toddler. All products mentioned in this article can be bought at www.toddleoff.co.uk.

Sleeping in a caravan or

motorhome

When we bought our motor home, we discovered that travel cots don’t fit! We found that foam bed guards and Dusky Moon Dream Tubes are good alternatives.

Sleeping in a tent

standard In a tent you have more options and cots up popstyle travel cots work well. Tent e, spac ing pack less need they ; good are also t direc in are and s but have thinner mattresse nd. grou the with contact

Getting baby to sleep

our We sit outside the motor home to get see us, a toddler to settle to sleep – if he can game of peak-a-boo starts!

Stay Warm Babies and toddlers get cold if they aren’t moving about.

Choose windproof clothes and keep hands and heads warm.

The Bundle Bean is a versatile waterproof fleece blanket that can be used to keep little ones warm in many situations.

At night, keep babies cosy in long sleeved sleeping bags. In a tent, keep yourself and baby well insulated from the ground.

For evenings out, a Slumbersac travel sleeping bag makes it easy to transfer a sleeping baby into bed.

Health & Safety Finally, to keep your baby safe in the summer – pack baby reins, buggy tugs, backpacks with reins, a first aid kit, hats, sun cream, long sleeved tops and pushchair blackouts.

Staying dry Pack waterproofs, wellington boots and rain covers for baby carriers, child carriers and pushchairs. Pack easy to dry fleece clothes and plenty of dry clothes and plastic bags for wet ones. Put a tarpaulin down to prote ct your tent and the surrounding area. An awni ng or gazebo can keep rain at bay and give you an area to dry clothes.

Staying clean If being permanently clean is your thing , then camping might not be for you! Man y campsites have family rooms with baths. A Flexi bath helps when facilities aren’t available.

Pack plenty of wet wipes and hand sterilising gel.

Mealtimes Pack ready prepared food and dried foods in tins or pouches, and frozen food in a cool box. Pack bottled water and remember that campsite shops sell the essentials. Choose your highchair carefully– booster seats or fabric seat harnesses suit many toddlers. Other useful mealtime accessories include; bowls / cutlery sets with suction pads and tiny diner placemats.

Breastfed Babies If you need to express milk when camp ing, some expressing pumps can run off batteries or car cigarette lighters. Otherwise it’s ‘on tap’ so no worries!

Bottlefed Babies Invest in a travel steriliser or cold water sterilising bags. Some travel sterilisers warm bottles and run off car cigarette lighters. Make life easy with cartons of baby milk or use a cool bag to keep milk fresh.

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Make us smile Thank you to everyone who entered this Toddle Models competition - it was another cracker!

We had 44 adorable entries in total and the winners were chosen by you through an online vote on our Facebook page. All the entries were utterly gorgeous (as you can see), but there had to be a winner, and from over 2,200 votes 2 year old Micah Rylan Pillay from Northampton emerged victorious! You will see Micah on the front cover of our next edition, thanks to Nick Kelly Photography.

Congratulations to Micah and all our runners up who will all receive a free photo shoot and prints from the amazing Nick Kelly Photography in Northampton. Nick runs a ‘mobile studio’ so he is able to capture beautiful moments of your children when they are totally relaxed in their own home or at your favourite location.

To book a photo shoot with Nick Kelly, call 07879 695995 or visit www.nickkellyphotography.co.uk and take advantage of Nick’s special offer of a FREE photo shoot worth £75 with the voucher in our centre pages - just for Toddle About readers. (See advert opposite).

Lola Winchester, 2 yrs

Caitlynn Milla

r, 3 mths

Chloe, 14 months

Micah Rylan Pillay (2 years old)

Competition was sponsored by:

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3

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Lewis Scott, 14 mths

Ena Finlay, 2 years

Sophie H

ammond

,6m

son, 4 m

Eden Donald

Bronwyn Mills , 6 mt

hs

Jack Bowden, 13 mths

Marlo Ukaegbu, 11

wks

Emily & Louis Wilder

Raiden Cannell, 16m

Khusi Patel, 7 weeks

Annabelle

Jones, 4 m

, 9m

ia Louise Zara Aurel

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.co.uk

Rosie Bra d

Eden Voakes, 16 wks

Maddison Sharp, 7 m

Jack, 10 mon ths

ley, 4 mth s

5m Wynter Shaw,

Maisie, 14

months

s Alex Hill, 4 year

Lewis Nightingale, 9 m

ths dle, 20 m Ruby War

Alexander Smith, 22 m

Amalie Sharp, 2 yrs

Alyssa Massoura, 3m

Harley Reading, 14mths

Kierra Wadeson 18 months

,

s er, 3 mth Liam Fost

Carmen Box, 2 yrs

Lily, 3 years

Lexi Rose Bl akesley, 15m

Ebony Burbridge, 10 m

Lloyd Kuhn, 14 mths

Charlotte Johnson, 7 m

Isabella Claxton, 12 m

Austin George Walden, 2 yrs

6 mths ckett, 1

Tilly Lu

Emily Johnston, 2 yrs

Enter the next Toddle Models Competition and

Win your child on our front cover!

The next Toddle Models competition is sponsored by Coco Latte Photography (www.cocolattephotography.co.uk) The 1st place winner will win a professional photo shoot for their child to be the front cover model for Toddle About, plus an 8”x10” Alumini Print or Canvas Wrap worth £150.

There will also be 9 runners up prizes! They will each win a photo shoot and a free print (worth £95).

The winners will be decided by a panel of judges, chosen by Toddle About. As usual, we will print as

many entries as possible in our next issue.

To enter the next Toddle Models competition, please email your favourite pic of your little one (along with their Coco Latte p h o t o g r a p h y name, age, your phone number and where you’re from) to toddlemodels@toddleabout.co.uk by midnight on Sunday 26th August.

Coco Latte Photography Tel: 01327 831 500 www.cocolattephotography.co.uk logo.cl copy.2.pdf

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Deafconnect will be providing 4 days of activities for deaf children during the school summer holidays, plus a new parent and toddler group.

• Hullabaloo Soft Play & Lazer Tag 30th July, 10am-2pm - Northampton.

• Irchester Country Park Picnic & Jungle Parc 8th August, 9:30am-3pm - Little Irchester.

• Harry Potter Studio (BSL) Tour 17th August, 8:30am-6pm (tbc) - Leavesden.

• Children’s Activity Day 29th August, 10am-3:30pm, Deafconnect Centre.

• Parent and Toddler Group (term time only) Fortnightly on Fridays (starting 29th June), 9.30am–11.30am - Spencer Dallington Community Centre, Northampton.

Contact Victoria Eley for more details & advice.

Email: victoria.eley@deafconnect.org.uk Tel: 01604 589011 / SMS: 07969 901946

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Make your child’s party perfect!

Choose from our wide selection of bouncy castles to make your child’s party super fun and truly unforgettable. We have options for children from 2 years old to adults – all at fantastic prices.

For all your bouncy castle and inflatable hire take a look at our website.

Fre ponde ball balls (usuall y £2

book a 0) when you Bounc ehous (£70 p e er day ). See the vouch er in th e centre pages .

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www.fun4hire.co.uk Call: 01604 211299

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!

Planning the

Perfect Party

Activity ideas to make it an amazing day!

Craft Activity

Bouncy Castle

Children love making things, so let them! You could get them decorating their own party hat, making a sock puppet, making a mask matching the party theme and loads more. Let your imagination go wild.

You just can’t go wrong with a bouncy castle. All children love them and it’s not as expensive as you might think to hire a big one for all the children to enjoy – about £50-£70 per day. Check out Fun 4 Hire (opposite) or Sarah Jane’s Castles (below) – Fun 4 Hire have a special low-sided castle for indoor use.

Disco Another thing children love to do is dance! They’ll dance all day if you play the right music and make it interactive for them. You can do this yourself but the professionals have all the right kit and know exactly what music and games to play to keep the children entertained – check out Discomania Jnr or TC Party People for good disco options (see below).

Pinata A Mexican game originally, the Pinata is becoming very popular in the UK. Available to buy online, a Pinata is a papier mâché toy stuffed with sweets or other little trinkets which, traditionally, is hung from a tree whilst children take it in turns to hit it with a stick! Eventually, the pinata splits and spills its tasty contents into a big pile on the floor for the children to enjoy. Obviously, care must be taken with this game.

TC Wedding Creches & Princess/Pirate Parties Offering quality childcare & parties, give your little one a day to remember.

Call 07973748929 www.tcweddingcreches.com

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Entertainers Getting the right entertainer turns a party into an unforgettable experience that the children will be talking about for weeks. It also takes a lot of the stress out of the party for you as the entertainer frees you up to organise food and drinks and chat to other parents. For some great options, have a look below at Lovely (magic, balloons and themes), Miss Tickle Magic (silly magic and balloons) and TC Wedding Creches (Pirate/Princess parties).

Song Time Sitting in a circle and singing songs is always fun for young children, requires no props - and is a great way to calm everyone down before food.

Birthday Food The eating part of the party is entertainment itself!

You’ll need to plan about 30 minutes for this. Don’t worry about going all gourmet – children will be more than happy with sandwiches, crisps, cocktail sausages, grapes and strawberries. And of course cake! If you want some special cakes for your party, check out Scrummy Little Cupcakes (below).

BOUNCY CASTLES FOR HIRE (15x12ft)

Contact Sarah-Jane on 07702 821087. Northampton, South Northants & Daventry.

Miss Tickle Magic Children’s Entertainer

Alison Williams, 43 Oaklands, Bugbrooke, NN7 3QU Tel: 01604 831483 / 07915 699322 Website: www.missticklemagic.co.uk Children’s Parties Silly Magic, Balloons & lots of fun!

Scrummy Little Cupcakes

Scrummy Little Cupcakes cater to every need including Childrens Parties, Babyshowers & even Adult Cocktail Cupcakes!

Call Nikki on 07783989652 www.scrummylittlecupcakes.com

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The Computer Debate

For the first time in history, the majority of children in the UK are growing up with easy and regular access to computers. Most parents let their children play games and watch videos on their computers, mobile phones or tablet PCs, and most would agree that all our lives are enhanced by the presence of these technologies.

But not everyone agrees. The computer debate hit the news in May this year when Dr Aric Sigman, a top psychologist, recommended to politicians that there should be a ban on screen technology in education until children reach nine years old. He believes that early exposure to computer screens in schools and nurseries is threatening the development of a generation of young children, and they should be encouraged to learn about the ‘real world’ first.

So, is it wise to encourage computer use by youngsters or not? With the presence of advanced computers, tablets and smart phones in so many homes and pockets still being a relatively recent thing, it would be difficult for anyone to assert that they knew the answer to this question, but there are still plenty of opinions on the topic! We have done our best to represent the main opinions on both sides of the argument for you here.

For Computers

Prepares children for school According to a study published in the US medical journal Pediatrics, pre-school children from low-income families who used computers, scored higher in school readiness, skill development and IQ tests than children who didn’t. However, the study did warn that too much computer time could have negative effects.

Need computer skills to function nowadays In today’s world, computers are everywhere we go and they will play a significant role in our children’s futures.

By exposing children to computers at a young age, they are learning necessary skills that they can build on as technology continues to progress.

Computers help children learn Children can be ‘interactive learners’ with computers.

They can read, do activities, play educational games and learn actively. Studies have found that computers can teach children letters and numbers and welldesigned educational software can help children understand complicated concepts that they might otherwise struggle to understand. Computer games also engage children well and can make learning more fun than more traditional methods.

Computer skills are necessary for school Children use computers a lot at school now, so they will be at an advantage if they are able to use them confidently. Most children these days are adept at using computers, ipads and mobile phones and denying them the opportunity to learn about these technologies will put them at a disadvantage to their peers at school.

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Children pick up computer skills easily Today’s computers are so intuitive, even very young children can use them. A one year old can figure out how to use an ipad or a mobile phone, so why not get them started as early as possible and get them off to a head start?

They keep children entertained Computers are a great way to keep children occupied, giving parents some precious time to get on with work or household chores, or even to put their feet up for a few moments.

Make children more inquisitive Computers give children on-demand access to an almost unlimited amount of information and ideas that would until recently have been difficult or impossible to find. This easy access to information allows them to explore questions and subjects of interest to them and encourages their natural curiosity and joy of learning.

Can develop creativity and logic Child-friendly computer programming software (such as Scratch Jr) enables children to learn how to create their own games, stories and animations. These programmes help to harness and develop children’s creativity and develop their logical and numerical reasoning skills.

Computers are better than television Research has found that children’s computer time has not replaced play or homework, but tends to take the place of time previously spent watching TV. The cognitive activity involved in using computers is preferable to the passive viewing of television.

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Against Computers No proven benefits Neuropsychologist Jane Healy PhD concluded in her book Failure to Connect, that there is no advantage, and there may even be disadvantages, for children under the age of seven in using computers.

Con

tro Cor versy ner

Stunts creativity Children are not having to develop their own imagination and creativity as everything is already imagined and created for them. As a result, they often find it harder to amuse themselves as they are not used to making up their own games.

Damages children’s brains Neuroscientist Baroness Susan Greenfield, the former director of the Royal Institution, believes that spending too much time staring at computer screens can cause physical changes in the prefrontal cortex of the brain. The changes lead to a shorter attention span and more reckless behaviour in children. The prefrontal cortex is also associated with the habit of seeking short term reward, obesity, gambling addiction and ADHD. Children need real, not virtual experiences Psychologist Dr Aric Sigman argues that the young brain needs to be primed through real world 3D experiences that place plenty of cognitive demands on it. He explains that children need to hold, feel, taste, see and move real things to educate their neurological and cognitive infrastructure with a basic understanding of the real world. The 2D world of computers cannot provide these experiences.

Play is more important The American Academy of Pediatrics stress that unstructured play time is more valuable for a child’s developing brain than any electronic media exposure. If a parent is not able to actively play with a child, then solo play time with an adult nearby allows a child to develop imagination, creativity, reasoning skills and motor skills. Play with other children helps children to learn social skills such as negotiation and turn taking - not to mention developing their speaking and verbal skills.

Time taken away from developing vital skills Time in front of a screen could be spent drawing, writing, cutting, jumping, throwing, catching, balancing, climbing, making up stories, playing imaginative games, making things, etc. These are essential skills that take practice and are not being developed by computers.

Strain on eyes When children are looking at a screen they are looking at a fixed and very close focal length for long periods of time, which can result in eye discomfort, fatigue, blurred vision and headaches.

Screen Time Recommendations The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents limit combined screen time from television and computers to no more than 1 or 2 hours per day for preschool-age children, and that children under the age of 2 should have no screen time at all.

Reduces Attention span Children who spend too much time on computers get used to the visually appealing graphics, and sounds that go with them, and this can be detrimental to their attention skills, to the point where children are losing the capacity to follow a line of thought through a chapter or a book.

Lack of physical activity When children are using computers they are typically sat still, which means they are not doing any exercise, or developing their fine or gross motor skills which they would be whilst playing. This lack of exercise puts them at an increased risk of obesity.

Damages future academic achievement Dr Aric Sigman believes and has found evidence to suggest that children’s future reading and maths abilities are damaged by early screen exposure.

There is plenty of time to learn about computers Children could easily learn everything they need to know about computers in secondary school.

Arguments about children without IT skills in primary school being at a disadvantage when they enter the real world as adults are unfounded.

Disclaimer – the points made in this debate are not all supported by research and should not be considered ‘facts’. The points represent opinions commonly expressed in discussions on the topic – we are not suggesting that any of these opinions is correct or true. But they are meant to be interesting and provide food for thought!

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Photographers

Special Offers

A £75 photo shoot for just £25 and TWO free prints

Free photo shoot & 20% off prints Expires: 30/09/2012. Quote ‘Toddle About’. T: 01604 811942

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Local Business Reviews Sandy Antenatal & Postnatal Yoga and Massage Classes By Lauren Hemming and Helen Elligot I first met Sandy when I was 20 weeks pregnant with my first child back in 2011. I felt that I ought to do some gentle exercise and prepare myself and my body for having a baby, and I was recommended Sandy’s class in Grange Park on a Tuesday evening. safe, I didn’t know what to expect but Sandy met me with a smile and I interesting, felt instantly at ease. I must say I inspiring thoroughly enjoyed the hour’s and fun

The class was also very informative as Sandy is a qualified Midwife and an experienced health professional – she answered our many questions about pregnancy and labour in detail which was both reassuring and interesting.

After giving birth to Marcus, I joined Sandy’s postnatal group where we learned the correct way to massage our babies and picked up some great tips for comforting and soothing babies who may have colic or constipation. Most importantly, it was a lovely way to spend some special time with them outside of the daily norm. Incorporated into the class is gentle yoga for mums which is great to ease you back into class. It involved relaxation, exercise again and doesn’t make you feel so guilty physical and mental preparation about having a biscuit with your nice cup of tea when and of course having a giggle with Sandy and you finish the session and move onto the socialising! other expectant mums. As someone who had never In my opinion, Sandy’s classes are a great way to meet even thought about yoga before, I found the class challenging enough to feel a difference; but easy too. new like-minded friends and get some well-deserved ‘me time’ with your bump I have a back condition and Sandy made sure I had or baby. I definitely recommend you give safe exercises to follow if I couldn’t do the same as them a try! everyone else.

Pregnancy, Childbirth & Postnatal Yoga with Sandy

Pregnancy & Childbirth Yoga

(Birth companions welcome) Prepare for your birth and gain the confidence and knowledge to help you to achieve a positive birth outcome.

Postnatal Mum & Baby Yoga and Baby Massage

Sandy is currently a practicing Midwife and combines many years of training and experience as a Health Professional, Yoga Teacher and Massage Therapist to ensure that her sessions are safe, interesting, inspiring and fun. Sandy’s yoga classes and massage therapy sessions are held in various locations in Northampton.

Contact Sandy on 07710 200434 or visit www.sandyyoga.co.uk for more information.

Mummies Birth Buddy

relax, explore and be nurtured

10% OFF A PREGNANCY OR POSTNATAL MASSAGE

Expires: 30/09/12. Quote ‘Toddle About’ when booking.

Yoga and baby massage build a healthy body and mind for mum and baby. Have fun & learn together and meet new friends.

www.mummiesbirthbuddy.co.uk 07966 288236

Sandy Sinclair-Wilde is a practising Midwife, Yoga Teacher, Massage Therapist & Aquanatal Teacher.

She is also a qualified Health Visitor & Registered Nurse.

Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond

For more information please contact Sandy on: 07710 200434 or email: sandy@sandyyoga.co.uk

www.sandyyoga.co.uk

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Yoga Classes for Book

• Yoga for all today!

• Pregnancy yoga • Birth Preparation Workshops • Postnatal yoga for mother & baby Relax and build confidence, strength and well being.

Call Lizzy on 07950 573719 for further info.

www.yogawalks.co.uk

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Help Yourself to a Better Birth

By Lee Bodily & Janette Houghton – Daisy Birthing

Relax, Move and Breathe for a healthier Pregnancy and easier Labour!

You probably know that breathing, movement and relaxation all have benefits in both pregnancy and labour, but some of these may surprise you…

During pregnancy, being relaxed helps to keep blood pressure low, encourages the release of endorphins and enables you to physically relax your ligaments, muscles and skeleton. Relaxation also helps to keep adrenalin levels low. This is essential during labour because adrenalin sends your body into fight or flight, which causes the diversion of blood to the organs essential for survival and therefore away from your uterus. This limits its supply of oxygen, inhibiting the uterine muscle from working effectively and making birthing much more difficult. Adrenalin also inhibits the production of oxytocin (your contraction hormone), which can cause labour to stall, and of endorphins, which are your natural pain relieving hormones – 200 times the strength of morphine!

Movement helps to strengthen key muscles in your body. This helps prepare your body to carry the growing weight of your baby as well as being

physically prepared for labour. During pregnancy, movement can be used to bring your baby into the optimal birth position. In labour, by utilising upright positions and movements which enable your body to engage with gravity, you can encourage dilation of your cervix and help keep your contractions regular so you birth as efficiently as possible.

Breathing oxygenates your blood, which then carries that oxygen around your body. During pregnancy that oxygen is carried to the placenta and your baby. During labour, it is important to breathe deeply to continue that flow of oxygen to baby and also to the key birthing muscle – your uterus. When muscles are well oxygenated they work easily, tire less quickly and feel comfortable!

Many of these benefits are co-dependent. That’s why Daisy Birthing combines these three elements into a holistic birth preparation class ensuring that you are fully prepared for your birth journey.

Daisy Birthing classes are available in Northampton, Daventry & South Northants. Visit www. thelazydaisychain.co.uk for more info or contact Lee on lee@lazydaisybirthing.co.uk (Daventry & South Northants) or Janette on janette@lazydaisybirthing. co.uk (Northampton). See advert below.

Birth Preparation Classes Are you pregnant and in need of a complete active birth and confidence boosting programme?

You Need Lazy Daisy!

Classes combine gentle yoga-based movement, breathing & relaxation For classes in Central & South Northampton Contact Janette on 07815 565963 or email: janette@lazydaisybirthing.co.uk For classes in Daventry, Towcester & Brackley Contact Lee on 07590 928944 or email: lee@lazydaisybirthing.co.uk

www.thelazydaisychain.co.uk

You watch over them while you can, but what if one day you can’t?

Everyone should ensure their most treasured belongings are safeguarded.

Talk to me about how I can help; • Wills • Life Cover • Savings • Investments Brad West Independent Financial Adviser e: brad@grey2blue.co.uk t: 01604 629164 / 07531 398988

www.grey2blue.co.uk

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icon tells you which advertisers have a voucher in the centre pages

!

Baby Cafe Re-opens

The Northampton Baby Cafe has re-opened following an amazing campaign by mums and dads who currently or previously used the service, after government funding cuts forced it to close earlier this year.

The Northampton Baby Cafe opened in 2004 and since then has helped over 1,700 different mothers and their babies to breastfeed for as long or as short a time as they wanted. The service runs on Mondays and Fridays from 10am till midday at the Friends Meeting House, Wellington Street, Northampton NN1 3AS (behind M&S).

At the Baby Cafe you are able to talk to experienced and fully accredited breastfeeding specialists, as well as meet other breastfeeding mothers and feed your baby in a safe and comfortable environment. It is usual to have lots of questions and concerns, particularly in the early days, and it can be hard to know where to turn for help. At the Baby Cafe you can be certain that you will get

Parents’ passionate campaign saves this amazing free service specialist breastfeeding help if you need it but also support, encouragement and friendship from other breastfeeding mothers. It is that combination of specialist help and informal support that makes the service so popular.

The only reason that the Northampton Baby Cafe was able to re-open was because of the campaign by parents who had used the service and felt so passionately that they wanted it to be available for other families in the future. The funding is only for one year at this point so the campaign will continue to try and attract funding beyond that in order to – hopefully - secure the future of the Baby Cafe for many years to come.

If you need help or support with breastfeeding you can drop in to any Monday or Friday session between 10 and 12 (no appointment is necessary) or you can telephone Carolyn Markham 07780 672939 or Ann Davison 07828 169427 for advice or more information.

little prints...

BIG impression!

Capture your child’s fingerprint in silver to create the perfect gift or keepsake... ...or why not give the gift of fingerprint jewellery by post with KNR’s impression kit (from £39).

Visit www.knrjewellery.co.uk or call Kirstie on 07967399449 or 01295 271051

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Mums

!

Making it

Working for Yourself

Is it worth it? The Pros & Cons

If you’ve found yourself thinking that you need a job with the flexibility to work around your family, you will probably have considered working for yourself. This can be a daunting prospect, but if you choose the model of self-employment that is right for you then it can ultimately be the most liberating and empowering gift you could ever give yourself.

There are three main models for being self-employed. We asked three mums who have taken the leap into self-employment why they chose the model they did and what they feel are the pros and cons.

Option A – Set Up a Brand New Business Cath Bagnall from Gracious Souls - selling affordable, high quality pre-loved children’s clothes and shoes across the UK. www.gracioussouls.co.uk Setting up my own business is one of the most rewarding things that I have achieved.

Venturing into the unknown with your own business isn’t like buying into someone else’s idea and working for them. There are no pre-defined customer databases, advertising strategies or networks, but if you see your business as a long term investment and work with organisations such as Business Link, Trading Standards and good friends, you can be successful.

When people ask me what it was like setting up

and running my own business I compare it to having a newborn baby, because it’s demanding and exciting at the same time.

So far, the only downfall of running my own business is that of taking holidays, but that’s a small price to pay when I look at the benefits. I run my business the way that I want to and I define the values and commitments that we make to our customers.

It might not be right for everyone, but I love it.

Be your

own boss

As a Pampered Chef Consultant, you choose the hours you work whilst running a fun and rewarding business!

With an incredible support network and training, you can earn £50-£100 per show, showing guests how to create simple yet effective recipes at in-home cooking shows.

www.pamperedchef.biz/bicesterkitchen

• Flexible hours to suit you & your family • Freedom to work how you want • Earn £200-£300 p/m for a few hours work • Quality training and mentoring • Sociable and fun work Contact Tracey on 07718 533163 or email: tracey.aldridge@yahoo.co.uk

EArn £50-£100 PEr shoW CAll TrACEy for info TodAy!

34 The

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Option B – Buy a Franchise

Option C – Network Marketing

Tamsin Brewis from Water Babies - baby swim school with over 48 franchisees teaching over 28,000 babies per week to swim.

Tel: 01295 709221 www.waterbabies.co.uk

Tracey Aldridge from The Pampered Chef - selling premium cooking utensils through parties and events whilst building a team.

Tel: 07718 533163 www.pamperedchef.biz/bicesterkitchen

Water Babies is the biggest baby swim school and I have been running my franchise for 8 years now, growing it to cover five counties.

Why a franchise? I wanted something that would work around my children and I was very conscious that I had never set up a business and thus, the support of a franchisor seemed a sensible idea. The franchisor should be able to give you advice in all areas – financial, day to day running issues, how to do something for the first time etc. You are buying into an existing concept which has been tried and tested so, theoretically, you should not make too many mistakes! Also, you are buying a brand which can have huge benefits if the brand name is well known previously. However, you do have to pay a franchise fee monthly to the franchisor and depending on the franchise, there are likely to be guidelines as to how you can develop your business and how to use the brand.

I came across The Pampered Chef about 8 years ago when I hosted my first Cooking Show and I fell in love with their products. The consultant talked about the flexibility of the job and how it could fit around my young family at the time. It would give me the opportunity to build my own business with very low start-up costs and no on-going fees to pay.

I decided to give it a go - I had nothing to lose, but everything to gain.

The part I enjoy most about my job is the support and training I give my team, while I watch them grow and develop their own businesses. I have never worked for a company that is more supportive when it comes to training, online support and recognition.

I can’t really think of a downside! The one thing I can say is, you have to be self-motivated and prepared to put the hours in if you want to grow your business into more of a career, rather than just a hobby. You will get out as much as you put in.

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Baby Swimming

Your Questions Answered

Being one of the first baby swim schools in the UK, and the largest today, we have an enormous wealth of knowledge on taking your little one for a dip.

Over the years we have provided advice to hundreds of thousands of mums about taking their babies swimming and have cleared up endless misconceptions too. So here are the most popular!

How old does my baby have to be before I can take them swimming?

As a general guideline, we recommend that 12 weeks or 12lbs (whichever comes first) is the point when your baby can start swimming. Babies can swim before this in warm water pools (over 30 degrees) if they wear a wetsuit, and can swim from birth in hydrotherapy pools (around 33 degrees).

Is it true that I can’t take my baby swimming if they haven’t had their immunisations yet?

According to official NHS guidelines, you can take your baby swimming regardless of whether they have had their first immunisations or not. The chlorine in the pool kills all of the bacteria they are being protected against, so they are safe to start beforehand. However, if your baby was more than

!

by Laura McNally at Water Babies

6 weeks premature, we would suggest that you wait until they have had their first set of injections.

Should my baby just wear a swimming nappy in the pool?

A disposable swim nappy alone will not prevent any accidents from leaking out into the pool. We use a double nappy system in our classes, consisting of a disposable swim nappy, or reusable equivalent, underneath (i.e. Huggies’ Little Swimmers®) with a SplashAbout® Happy Nappy over the top in order to keep everything well and truly contained!

I can’t swim. Can I still teach my baby how to swim?

Yes absolutely, we have taught hundreds of parents and carers who range from slightly lacking confidence in the water to being outright terrified!

The water is always shallow enough to stand up and you don’t ever have to go underwater unless you want to.

Obviously all babies are different, so if you have any particular concerns about starting your baby swimming, please give us a call.

Water Babies hold local classes across the country.

For more information, visit their website www.waterbabies.co.uk or contact 01295 709211.

36 Sort groups by their distance from your home @ www.toddleabout.co.uk

Your local ‘What’s on Guide’ in your area for bumps - 5s and parents Described by many parents as their ‘bible’, this Daily Activity Planner is your one stop shop for finding virtually any and all of the bump, baby & toddler groups and classes that are running in and around Northampton, Daventry, Towcester and Brackley. There are literally hundreds of groups and classes here for you to find and try out - and there are even more in the online directory on the Toddle About website at www.toddleabout.co.uk/directory!

We’ve made searching the online directory really easy - simply enter your postcode and the groups will be listed in order of distance from your home. Then refine further by Type of Group, Age of Child, Day, Time and even Cost.

If you attend or run a group or class that isn’t listed here, please email us at info@toddleabout.co.uk with as much information as possible. All free or not-for-profit groups will be listed here for FREE!

Daily Activity Planner: Northampton Area Natural Bootcamp Duston Monday Childminders Group: 09:30-11:30T; 0 - 5s.

Abington

Abington/Kingsthorpe NCT Group

10:00-12:00T at Various Members’ Houses.

01604 403766 or 07867 521411; For bump 4s, £0.50 (donation). Non-members welcome!

Breastfeeding Support Group

Duston Rhymetime: 10:30-11:00TH; 0 - 5s.

Baby Weigh with H/V: 14:00-15:30TH

Fortnightly session at Duston Library Children’s Centre, Pendle Road NN5 6DT. 01604 752891; FREE (drop in).

Duston Mums & Tots

13:30-14:30T at Abington Ave United Reform Church, Abington Avenue NN1 4QA. 07964 971200; For 0 - 2s, FREE (drop in).

09:30-11:30T at Duston Village Hall, Sycamore Road; For 0 - 4s, .

Toy Library & Baby Weighing Clinic

St Mary’s Tiddlywinks

13:30-15:00TH with Abington Children’s Centre, Abington Ave United Reform Church NN1 4QA. 01604 750233; FREE (drop in).

Health Visitor present. Not on bank holidays

Yoga For All

19:00-20:00TH at Abington Ave United Reformed Church, Abington Avenue NN1 4QA. Sandy: 07710 200434; , £5 per session (book by 10-week term). Relax, boost your energy & build fitness

Billing

Active Baby Company Swimming

10:00-18:30T at Active Baby Company, ‘The Venue’ NN3 9DA. Denise: 01604 826066; For 0 - 5s, £9 per class (book by 6-week term).

Swimming classes for 8/10 weeks old - 6 yrs

Blackthorn

Family Worker Drop In: 09:00-09:30T; Stay n Play: 09:30-11:30T Childminders Drop in: 13:00-14:00T;

Every 2nd Monday Tots: 13:00-15:00T All at Blackthorn Children’s Centre, Longmead Court NN3 8QD. 01604 413504. For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Far Cotton

09:15-11:00T at St Mary’s Church, Abbey Road For 0 - 5s.

GymBugs Sessions

Kidz ‘n’ Co Mums and Tots Group

13:30-15:00T at Harpole Baptist Chapel, Nr the Turnpike Pub NN7 4DD. Rosemary: 01604 588116; For 0 - 5s, £1 per family (drop in).

Headlands

Come & Play!

10:45-11:45T at Headlands Children’s Centre, Bushland Road NN3 2NS. 01604 411440 ; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Hunsbury

09:00-10:30T at Danes Camp Leisure Centre, Clannell Rd NN4 0RX. 01604 837200; 0 - 5s.

Tots go free. Max 2 kids under 8 per adult

Northampton Multiples

Grange Park

Grange Park Tots Group

14:00-16:00TH at Camp Hill Community Centre, Dayrell Road NN4. Claire: 07587 154104; For 0 - 5s, £1 per session (drop in). £5 per month plus £1 per session attended

Musical Minis

Stay and Play Drop in

09:30-11:30TH at Grange Park Community Centre, School Lane NN4 5FZ. Angie: 07816 484851; For 0 - 4s, £2 per family (drop in).

Your first session is free.

10:00-11:45T at The Pavilion, Foxfield Way NN4 5BE. Amanda: 01908 259914; For 0 - 5s, £4.25 per session (please book). 45-minute classes starting at 10am & 11am

New Parents Drop in

10:30-11:30 at Kairos Centre, Wilks Walk NN4 5DW. 01604 863319; For 0s, FREE (drop in).

23rd July - 20th August

Harlestone

Harlestone Tiny Tots

Collingtree 14:00-16:00T at Virgin Active, 91 Windingbrook Lane NN4 0EB. 01295 709221; For 0 - 4s, £13 per class (book by 10-week term). Fun, action packed, progressive swim classes

16:00-19:45TH at Harlestone Village Institute, Upper Harlestone NN7 4EH. Lorraine: 07711 010404; For 0 - 5s, (book by term). Ballet, Tap, Street Dance & Gymnastics

In the Water

Harpole

Parent & Tots Swim

10:00-14:45T at NCAAC Gymnastics, 56-58 Rothersthorpe Crescent NN4 8JD. 01604 859412; For 0 - 5s, (please book). Enjoy ladders, beams and climbing

10:00-11:30TH at Harlestone Village Hall, Harlestone NN7. Janet: 01604 843991; For 0 4s, £1.50 per child (drop in). 50p for siblings

Water Babies

19:00-20:00TH at Harlestone Firs. 07812 973562 ; , £5 per session (please book).

Natural fitness sessions. Results guaranteed!

Love Ballet Dance Company

Music & Signing

Physical Fun

Kings Heath

09:30-15:00T at Camrose Children’s Centre at Kings Heath, 16 Park Square NN5 7LQ. 01604 757694 ; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Monday sessions start at 9:30 & 13:00

Kingsthorpe

Messy Play: 09:15-11:00TH; For 0 - 5s, FREE

(drop in). Wear old clothes!

Health Visitor Drop In: 12:30-14:30TH; For 0 - 2s, FREE (drop in). Baby weighing & advice at Kingsthorpe Children’s Centre, St. Davids Road NN2 6NS. 01604 791537 St. Mark’s Parent & Tots Group

10:00-11:15T at St Marks Church Hall, St Mark’s Crescent NN2 8EG. Sue: 01604 715342; For 0 - 4s, £1.50 per child (drop in). 20p per extra child

Arts & Crafts

For Pregnancy 37

Daily Activity Planner

Daily Activity Planner

= Advertiser has special offer voucher in our centre pages

Daily Activity Planner

Northampton Area

club Futsal Football classes Boys & Girls aged 3 - 15 yrs

Come and join the fun and learn to play the game!

Our classes help to improve children’s football ability, social skills, physical well-being, self esteem and confidence.

BOOk yOur Space TOday!

Caroline Chisholm School 6Tp Wootton Fields, Northampton, NN4 ) Wednesday 6pm-7pm (3-12yrs Check our website for new class locations!

To book call Paul: 07745 565745 Email: clubfutsal@mail.com www.clubfutsaluk.co.uk Soccer camps and tournaments – check website for details. Teams and individuals required.

Northampton Centre

Mini Music & Baby Music

09:30-11:30TH at Vernon Terrace Children’s Centre, NN1 5HE. 01604 633894; For 0 - 5s, .

9.30-10:30 (1-5s) & 10.30-11:30 (0-12m)

Active Baby Company Swimming

09:30-12:00T at Cripps Recreation Centre, Northampton General Hospital NN1 5BD. Denise: 01604 826066; For 0 - 4s, £9 per class (book by 6-week term). Swimming classes for 8/10 weeks old - 5 yrs

Stay & Play Drop In: 09:30-11:30TH; 0 - 5s.

Ducklings Baby Weighing: 10:00-11:30T

at Spring Lane Children’s Centre, Spring Lane NN1 2JW. 01604 620484; FREE (drop in).

Chatterbox

09:30-11:15T at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, 147-155 Kettering Road NN1 4BS. 01604 516809; For 0 - 5s.

Baby Yoga Drop In: 10:00-11:00T; 0 - 1s.

Parents & Tots Swim: 14:00-15:30T; 0 - 5s.

Tots go free. Max 2 kids under 8 per adult at Mounts Baths, NN1 3DN. 01604 837400 Mini Springers Parent & Toddler Group

10:00-12:00T at Springs Family Centre, Spring Boroughs NN1 2SN. Robyn: 01604 630457; For 0 - 4s, FREE (drop in).

Northampton Baby Cafe

Parklands

Time 2 Play - Messy Play

09:15-11:00T at Parklands Nursery School & Children’s Centre, Spinney Hill Rd NN3 6DW. 01604 642118; For 0 - 5s, £1 (drop in). Tues sessions: 9:15-11:00 & 13:30-15:00

09:30-10:30TH at Yeoman of England, Wootton NN4 6LP. Sam: 07875 024 301; For 2 - 5s, £4 per family (please book). www. yogatigers.co.uk.

Semilong

Tuesday

Bangladeshi Mums and Tots

13:00-15:00T at The Gateway Centre, Mill Road NN2 6AX. Kulsuma: 01604 624930; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). For Bangladeshi families

Spencer

Bumps, Babies & Breastfeeding

09:00-12:00TH at Streatfield Road, NN5 7DF. 01604 585219; For 0 - 2s, FREE (drop in).

St. James

St James Parent and Toddler Group

10:00-12:00TH at St. James Community Centre, St. James Road NN5 5LQ. Sarah: 01604 456231; For 0 - 5s, £1 (drop in).

Sometimes open during holidays - plse check

Thorplands

Doodle Dots: 09:15-11:15T; Childminders Clothing Bank: 11:30-12:30T; 0 - 5s.

Cygnets: 13:00-14:30T; from birth to walking

at Thorplands Children’s Centre, Farm Field Court NN3 8AQ. 01604 741131; FREE (drop in).

10:00-12:00T at The Friends Meeting House, Wellington Street NN1 3AS. 07780 672939; For 0 - 2s, FREE (drop in). Breastfeeding support + drink & biscuit

19:00-20:30TH run by Thorplands CC at Thorplands Primary School Playing Field NN3.

01604 741131; FREE (please book).

Young Parents Lunch

Weston Favell

11:30-14:00TH at Run by Vernon Terrace Children’s Centre, Alliston Gardens Youth and Community Centre NN1 5HE. 01604 633894; For bump - 5s, FREE.

Wootton

Yoga Tigers (2 - 5 year olds)

Dads’ Football

Parents and Tots Swim Session

13:00-14:00T at Lings Leisure Centre, Billing Brook Rd NN3 8JR. 01604 837 300; 0 - 5s.

Abington

St Gregory’s Toddler Group

09:30-11:30T at St Gregory’s Catholic Church, Birchfield Road East NN3 2HS. 01604 713015; For 0 - 5s, £0.50 (drop in). Come & play! Term time only.

Health Visitor Drop In

09:30-10:30T at Wallace Road Nursery School, Wallace Road NN2 7EE. 01604 713422; For 0 - 5s, FREE.

Kingsley Park Mums & Tots

13:30-15:00T at Kingsley Park Methodist Church, Milton St NN2 7JF; For 0 - 5s, (drop in).

Billing

Active Baby Company Swimming

10:00-13:30T at Active Baby Company, ‘The Venue’ NN3 9DA. Denise: 01604 826066; For 0 - 5s, £9 per class (book by 6-week term).

Swimming classes for 8/10 weeks old - 6 yrs

Blackthorn

Sticky Fingers: 09:30-11:00T Tots: 13:00-15:00T

at Blackthorn Community and Children’s Centre, Longmead Court NN3 8QD. 01604 413504; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

38 We update these listings every issue, but recommend you call before attending - just in case.

Northampton Area

T = Term Time H = Holidays Antenatal Yoga with Sandy Yoga

The Bramptons Parent and Tots Group

Delapre

Gloucester Parent and Toddler Group

09:00-11:00T at Gloucester Nursery School, NN4 8PH. Rachael: 01604 762251; For 0 - 4s.

18:30-19:30TH at Grange Park Community Centre, School Lane NN4 5FZ. Sandy: 07710 200434; For bump, £7 per class (book by 8-week term). Preparing for childbirth (partners welcome)

Hardingstone

Music Bugs

Duston

10:00-11:30T at Hardingstone Village Hall, High Street NN4 6DA. 0844 5781017; For 0 - 5s, (please book). Fun music sessions: book a free taster!

19:00-20:00TH at Meeting Point On the Corner of Quarry Road and Harlestone Road, .

07812 973562; , £5 per session (please book).

Natural fitness sessions - results guaranteed!

Aqualight Babies Swimming Class

Natural Bootcamp

Far Cotton

GymBugs Sessions

10:00-14:45T at NCAAC Gymnastics, 56-58 Rothersthorpe Crescent NN4 8JD. 01604 859412; For 0 - 5s, (please book). Enjoy ladders, beams and climbing

Grange Park

Headlands

09:00-11:00T at Grange Park Community Centre, NN4 5FZ. H/V: 01604 742420; For 0 - 2s, FREE (drop in). 1st Tues of month

Come and Play!

10:00-11:00T at Eastfield Primary School, Saint Alban’s Close NN3 2RJ. 01604 411440 ; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Stepping Stones

Krystle Jayne’s Dance Academy

10:30-11:00T at Hunsbury Library, Overslade Close NN4 0RZ. 0300 126 1000; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Hunsbury Rhymetime

14:00-14:30T at Grange Park Community Centre, School Lane NN4 5FZ. Krystle: 07791 852891; For 2 - 5s, (please book). Ballet classes for children 2.5 yrs+

In the Water

Music & Signing

Physical Fun

Tuesday Tots

10:00-11:30T at All Saints School, Boughton Green Rd NN2 7AJ. Stacey: 07917 205544; For 0 - 5s, £1 per child (drop in). Exra children 50p (under 9 mths go free) 15:00-17:30T at Fairfields School, Trinity Avenue NN2 6JN. Emie: 01604 83 04 05; For 0 - 5s, (book by 11-week term). Teaching with respect, love and knowledge

Dads’ Football

19:00-20:30TH at St David’s Playing Fields, off Harborough Rd NN2 6NS. 01604 791537; , FREE (drop in).

Moulton

Moulton Rhymetime

Aqualight Baby Yoga

09:30-11:30T at The Maple Tree Clinic, Overslade Close NN4 0RZ. Emie: 01604 83 04 05; For 0 - 4s, (book by 11-week term). 45-min yoga sessions for parent & baby

09:15-11:00T at Grange Park Community Centre, School Lane . 01604 875188; For 0 - 3s.

Includes breakfast! Every 2nd & 4th week

11:00TH; For 0 - 5s, Disabilities and EAL Story Time: 15:00-16:30TH; For 0 - 5s.

Twins Group: 16:00-17:30TH; For 0 - 5s. at Kingsthorpe Children’s Centre, St. Davids Road NN2 6NS. 01604 791537; FREE (drop in).

Aqualight Babies Swimming Class

10:00-11:00T at Headlands Primary School, Bushland Road NN3 2NS. Emie: 01604 83 04 05; For 0 - 4s, (book by 11-week term).

Teaching with respect, love and knowledge

Hunsbury

Drop In Health Clinic

Kingsthorpe

Additional Needs Support: 09:00-

14:30-15:00T at Moulton Library, Doves Lane NN3 7TA. 0300 126 1000; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Northampton Centre

Water Babies

09:30-11:00T at Cripps Recreation Centre , Northampton General Hospital NN1 5BD. 01295 709221; For 0 - 4s, £13 per class (book by 10-week term). Fun, action packed, progressive swim classes

Arts & Crafts

For Pregnancy 39

Daily Activity Planner

Chapel Brampton

10:00-11:30T at The Bramptons Primary School, NN6 8AW. Amy: 07540 373357; 0 - 5s, £1 (drop in). Toys, crafts, themes & sing-song

= Advertiser has special offer voucher in our centre pages

Daily Activity Planner

Northampton Area St Giles Toddle In

10:00-12:00T at St Giles Church Centre, St Giles Terrace NN1 2BN. Sue: 01604 230360; For 0 - 4s, £0.50 per family (drop in). Crafts, play and singing

Northampton Rhymetime

10:30-11:00T at Northamptonshire Central Library, Abington Street NN1 2BA. 0300 126 1000; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Pre-school Swimming Lessons

10:30-12:30T at The Mounts Baths, Upper Mounts NN1 3DN. 01604 837400; For 0 - 5s, (please book).

Active Tots: 10:45-11:30TH; For 0 - 5s.

Mini gym session using apparatus Health Visitor Drop in: 14:00-15:00T Yoga with Creche: 14:00-14:45T. SmART Art: 15:30-16:30T; For 3 - 5s. at Vernon Terrace Children’s Centre, Vernon Terrace NN1 5HE. 01604 633894.

Stay & Play Drop In

13:00-15:00TH at Spring Lane Children’s Centre, Spring Lane NN1 2JW. 01604 620484; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Lazy Daisy Birth Preparation Classes

19:30-20:45T at DW Fitness, St James Retail Park NN1 1EE. 07815 565963 ; For bump, .

Antenatal classes preparing you for birth

Parklands

Time 2 Play - Messy Play

09:15-15:00T at Parklands Nursery School & Children’s Centre, Spinney Hill Rd NN3 6DW. 01604 642118; For 0 - 5s, £1 (drop in). Tues sessions: 9:15-11:00 & 13:30-15:00

Queens Park

Billing Brook Road NN3 8JR. 01604 837 300; For 0 - 5s, .

10:30-11:30TH at The Racecourse, opp.

Northampton Uni main building, St Georges Ave NN2 6JD. 07812 973562; £5 per session (please book). Natural fitness sessions results guaranteed!

10:30-11:00T at Weston Favell Library, Weston Favell Centre NN3 8JZ. 01604 403100; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Last Tues of month

Natural Bootcamp

Spencer

Toy Library: 09:30-13:00TH; For 0 - 5s Stay and Play: 09:30-11:30TH

Library Story Stomp

Wootton

Little Acorns Toddler Group

For up to 8 years in holidays

09:30-11:30T at Wootton Trinity Church, High St NN4. Rachel: 01604 702178; For 0 - 5s, £2 per family (drop in). Hot drink, biscuit & snack.

13:00-15:00TH; For 0 - 1s, runs fortnightly at Camrose Chilldren’s Centre, Tenby Road NN5 7DF. 01604 585219. FREE (drop in).

14:00-15:00T at St George the Martyr Church, Church Hill NN4. ; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Toddler praise service: songs, stories & play

Stay & Play Family Health Drop in:

St. James

St. James Rhymetime

10:00-11:00T at St James Library, 138 St James Road NN5 5LQ. 0300 126 1000; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Thorplands

Story Time & Rhymes: 08:45-09:00T; 0-5s.

Natural Ways Breastfeeding: 12:30-

13:30T. FREE (drop in).

Health Visitor Drop In: 14:00-15:30TH at Thorplands Children’s Centre, Farm Field Court NN3 8AQ. 01604 741131 Messy Play

13:00-15:00T at Thorplands Children’s Centre at Brookside Hall, Billing Brook Road NN3 8NQ. 01604 741131; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Weston Favell Pre-school Swimming Lessons

10:30-12:00T at Lings Forum Leisure Centre,

Little Stars Group

Wednesday Abington

‘Multi Sensory Hoo Ha!’

10:30-11:15TH at St Michael and All Angels Church Halls, Perry Street NN1 4HL . 07878 766955 ; For 0 - 1s, £4 per class (please book).

Sensory toys, lights, puppets & live music!

Billing

Active Baby Company Swimming

10:00-12:30T at Active Baby Company, ‘The Venue’ NN3 9DA. Denise: 01604 826066; For 0 - 5s, £9 per class (book by 6-week term).

Swimming classes for 8/10 weeks old - 6 yrs

Blackthorn

Music Time

13:00-13:45T with Blackthorn CC at The Christian Fellowship Centre NN3 8DB. 01604 413504; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

40 We update these listings every issue, but recommend you call before attending - just in case.

Northampton Area

T = Term Time H = Holidays

Daily Activity Planner

Music Time: 14:00-15:00T; For 0 - 5s, FREE Antenatal Drop In: 16:00-18:00T; FREE

(drop in). 1st Wed of each month at Blackthorn Children’s Centre, Longmead Court NN3 8QD. 01604 413504

Boothville

Far Cotton Rhymetime

10:30-11:00T at Far Cotton Library, REC Centre, Towcester Road NN4 8LG. 0300 126 1000; For 0 - 4s, FREE (drop in).

Grange Park Tumble Tots

Pregnancy Yoga (Mummies Birth Buddy)

19:30-21:00T at , NN3 6PA. Claire: 07966 288236; £8 per session (book by 6-week term).

Feel confident in your ability to give birth

09:30-13:45TH at Grange Park Community Centre, School Lane NN4 5FZ. Naomi: 07779 785 166; For 0 - 4s, £5.50 per class (book by term). Structured play for 6 mths+. Free taster

Collingtree

Seedlings

Water Babies

15:00-16:00T at Virgin Active, 91 Windingbrook Lane NN4 0EB. 01295 709221; For 0 - 4s, £13 per class (book by 10-week term). Fun, action packed, progressive swim classes

Delapre

Messy Play

09:15-10:30TH at Gloucester Children’s Centre, NN4 8PH. 01604 762251; 0 - 5s, FREE (book).

Duston

Bookstart Bear Club: 09:30-10:00T, Drop in Stay & Play: 13:15-14:15T, Drop in

at Duston Library Children’s Centre, Pendle Road NN5 6DT. 01604 752891; For 0 - 5s, FREE.

Earls Barton

14:00-15:00T at Kairos Centre, Wilks Walk NN4 5DW. Angie: 07816 484851 ; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Stories, songs & crafts

09:15-11:00TH at St David’s Church Rooms , Eastern Ave S NN2 7QB. 01604 791537; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Natural Bootcamp

19:00-20:00TH at Harlestone Firs, . 07812 973562 ; , £5 per session (please book).

Natural fitness sessions. Results guaranteed!

Headlands

Tiny Time

Hunsbury

15:00-16:30TH at Kingsthorpe Children’s Centre, St.Davids Road NN2 6NS. 01604 791537; For 0 - 1s, FREE (drop in).

Northampton Centre

Pre-school Swimming Lessons:

09:30-11:30T at The Abbey Centre, Overslade Close NN4 0RZ.. Vanessa: 07740283905; For 0 5s, £2 per family (drop in). Includes homemade cakes for mummies

Physical Fun

Stay & Play

Holy Trinity Mums & Tots

Come & Play at the Arbours

Music & Signing

09:15-10:30TH at Green Oaks Primary School, Whiston Road NN2 7RR. 01604 791537; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

10:00-11:45T at Holy Trinity Church (Hall), Edinburgh Road NN2 6PH; For 0 - 4s, (drop in).

The Abbey Centre Toddler Group

In the Water

Kingsthorpe

Harlestone

16:00-19:00T at Grange Park Community Centre, School Lane NN4 5FZ. Krystle: 07791 852891; For 2 - 5s, (please book). Ballet classes for children 2.5 yrs+

Far Cotton

GymBugs Sessions

(drop in). Fun with string instruments!

Stay and Play Drop in: 13:00-15:00T; 0 - 5s. at Camrose Children’s Centre at Kings Heath, 16 Park Square NN5 7LQ. 01604 757694

Stay & Play

Earls Barton Rhymetime

10:00-11:45T at NCAAC Gymnastics, 56-58 Rothersthorpe Crescent NN4 8JD. 01604 859412; For 0 - 5s, (please book). Enjoy ladders, beams and climbing

Kings Heath

Mini Strings: 11:00-11:30TH; 1 - 5s, FREE

Krystle Jayne’s Dance Academy

13:30-14:30T at The Arbours Primary School, St Gregory’s Rd NN3 3QF. 01604 411440 ; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

14:30-15:00T at Earls Barton Library, Broad St NN6 0ND. 0300 126 1000; 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Soft Play Sessions: 09:15-11:30TH; For 0 - 4s, £3 per child (drop in).

Parent & Tots Swim: 13:15-14:45T; 0 - 5s.

Tots go free. Max 2 kids under 8 per adult at Danes Camp Leisure Centre, Clannell Road NN4 0RX. 01604 837200

09:15-14:00T; For 0 - 5s, (please book).

Parents & Tots Swim: 14:00-15:30T; 0 - 5s.

Tots go free. Max 2 kids under 8 per adult at The Mounts Baths, Upper Mounts NN1 3DN. 01604 837400

Arts & Crafts

For Pregnancy 41

= Advertiser has special offer voucher in our centre pages

Daily Activity Planner

Northampton Area Chatterbox

09:30-11:15T at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, 147-155 Kettering Road NN1 4BS. 01604 516809; For 0 - 5s, .

Baby Cafe Breastfeeding Support

Tots Group

Young Parents: 12:30-13:30T; bump - 5s, at Duston Library Children’s Centre, Pendle Road NN5 6DT. 01604 752891. FREE (drop in)

Toddle Time

14:00-15:15T at St Luke’s CEVA School, St. Crispins Drive NN5 4BL. 01604 592008; 0 - 4s.

Bounce and Rhyme

Baby Clinic

10:00-11:30T at The Salvation Army, Penistone Road NN3 8EZ. 01604 404891; For 0 - 5s, (drop in).

09:30-11:30T at Spring Lane Children’s Centre, Spring Lane NN1 2JW. 01604 620484 or 07795 110109; For 0 - 3s, FREE (drop in).

10:15-10:45T at Weston Favell Library, NN3 8JZ. 01604 403100; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Toy Library

11:15-11:45T at Weston Favell Library, Weston Favell Centre NN3 8JZ. 01604 403100; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

10:00-11:30T at United Reformed Church, Abington Ave NN1 4QA . ; For 0 - 5s, . Toys available for 6 mths-5 yrs

Aqualight Babies Swimming Class

10:00-12:30T at Park Inn, Silver Street NN1.

Emie: 01604 83 04 05; For 0 - 3s, (book by 11-week term). Teaching with respect, love and knowledge

Early Learning Centre Playtime

10:00-11:00TH at Early Learning Centre, 14 Peacock Place NN1 2DP. Sharon: 01604 626256; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Meet other mums & play with ELC toys.

Baby Stay & Play: 11:00-12:00T; For 0s.

Baby Grow Postnatal: 14:00-15:00T Breastfeeding Support: 15:00-16:00TH Messy Play: 15:30-16:30T

at Vernon Terrace Children’s Centre, Vernon Terrace NN1 5HE. 01604 633894; For 0 - 5s.

Pitsford

Pitsford Toddler Group

09:30-11:30T at Pitsford Village Hall, Pitsford NN6. ; For 0 - 5s, £2 per family (drop in).

Spencer

Bumps, Babies & Breastfeeding: 09:00-

12:00TH; For 0 - 2s, FREE (drop in).

Childminders Group: 09:30-11:30TH; For 0 - 5s. Runs on 1st Wed of mth Stay and Play: 09:30-11:30TH; For 0 - 5s, For up to 8 years in holidays Toy Library: 09:30-11:30TH; For 0 - 5s Baby Massage: 09:30-11:30TH at Camrose Children’s Centres, Tenby Road NN5 7DF. 01604 585219; FREE (drop in).

St James

Mums ‘n’ Tots

09:30-11:00T at Gospel Hall, Spencer Bridge Road NN5 7DP. Gill: 07749 520588; For 0 - 4s, FREE (donation). Toys, baby area, ride-on toys

Thorplands Stay & Play

09:30-11:30T at Thorplands Children’s Centre at The Barn, Lodge Farm Comm Centre NN3 8JJ. 01604 741131; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Upton

Upton Tots

10:15-12:15T at The Elgar Centre, High Street NN5 4EN. 01604 454243; For 0 - 5s, £1 (drop in). Toys, crafts, stories, songs & refreshments

Talking Point

10:30-12:30TH at 16 Mill Pond Drive, Upton NN5 4EW. Marilyn: 01604 454243; For bump 2s, FREE (drop in). For new mums to meet

Weston Favell

Emmanuel Family Tots

10:00-11:30TH at Emanuel Church, Weston Favell Centre NN3 8JZ. 01604 402150; For 0 5s, £1. Relaxed atmosphere & safe play time

Gym Minis

10:00-11:45T at Lings Leisure Centre, Billing Brook Road NN3 8JR. 01604 837 300; 1 - 5s.

Fun-based gymnastics, soft play, action songs

St Luke’s Mums & Tots

Ecton Brook

Wootton

13:00-15:00T at Ecton Brook Children’s Centre, NN3 5DY. 01604 409280; For 0 - 1s, FREE (drop in). Breastfeeding support counsellor available

09:30-11:30TH at The Cafe, Northampton Garden Centre, Newport Pagnell Road NN4 6HP. Tracy: 07870 645076; For bump - 5s, FREE. 1st Wed of mth. For single parents.

10:00-11:00T at 10 Foxglove Close. Health Visitors: 01604 742420; FREE (drop in). For new & pregnant mums (babies up to 8 mths)

Northampton Gingerbread Group

Wootton Fields

Club Futsal Football Classes

18:00-19:00T at The Wooldale Centre of Learning, Caroline Chisholm School NN4 6TP. Paul: 07745 565745; For 3 - 5s, £5. Football coaching sessions for 2½ - 15 years

Thursday Abington

Time 2 Play Baby Group

09:15-11:00T at Wallace Road Nursery School, NN2 7EE. 01604 713422; For 0 - 1s, £1.

Zumba Fitness with FREE Childcare

10:00-11:00TH at St Michael and All Angels Church Halls, Perry Street NN1 4HL . 07878 766955; £5 per class (please book). FREE Baby & Pre-School Childcare & free cuppa

Billing

Active Baby Company Swimming

12:30-18:00T at Active Baby Company, ‘The Venue’ NN3 9DA. Denise: 01604 826066; For 0 - 5s, £9 per class (book by 6-week term).

Swimming classes for 8/10 weeks old - 6 yrs

Blackthorn

Grange Park Talking Point

Hardingstone

Music Bugs

09:30-11:00T at Hardingstone Village Hall, High Street NN4 6DA. 0844 5781017; For 0 - 5s, (please book). Fun music sessions: book a free taster!

Harpole

Aqualight Babies Swimming Class

10:00-11:00T at 1 Duck Lane, NN7 4BU. 01604 83 04 05; For 0 - 4s, (book by 11-week term).

Teaching with respect, love and knowledge

Hunsbury

Parent & Tots Swim: 09:00-10:30T; For 0 5s. Tots go free. Max 2 kids under 8 per adult

Tiddler Swim Lessons: 16:00-18:30T; For

0 - 5s, (please book). Parent & baby swim lessons at Danes Camp Leisure Centre, Clannell Road NN4 0RX. 01604 837200

East Hunsbury Toddlers

09:30-11:00T at East Hunsbury Primary School DSP Hall, Penvale Road NN4 0QW; For 0 - 4s, £2 per family.

Kings Heath Health Drop In

Family Worker Drop In: 09:00-09:30T; Tots: 13:00-15:00T

09:30-11:30T at Camrose CC, 16 Park Square NN5 7LQ. 01604 757694; 0 - 1s, FREE (drop in). Baby massage, development checks & advice

Tots Drop In

Stay & Play: 13:00-14:45TH Breastfeeding Support: 15:30-17:00TH

at Blackthorn Community and Children’s Centre, Longmead Court NN3 8QD. 01604 413504; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

09:00-10:30T at Blackthorn Children’s Centre Outreach, Lings Primary School NN3 8NN. 01604 413504; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Baby Grow

13:00-15:00T at Blackthorn Children’s Centre Outreach, The Christian Fellowship Centre NN3 8DB. 01604 413504; For 0 - 1s, FREE (drop in). Bond with your baby

Boothville

Kingsthorpe

at Kingsthorpe Children’s Centre, St David’s Rd NN2 7QJ. 01604 791537. FREE (drop in).

Northampton Homebirth Group

19:30-21:30T at Whitehills Nursery School, Acre Lane NN2 8DF. 07716 017366; FREE drop in. Discuss home birth options with midwives

Pregnancy Yoga (Mummies Birth Buddy)

Postnatal Yoga: 11:30-13:00TH; £9 per class (book by 6-week term).

Baby Massage: 11:30-13:00T; £7 per session (book by 5-week term). Bond with baby and help them develop Pregnancy Yoga: 16:30-18:00T; £8 per session (book by 6-week term). Feel confident in your ability to give birth with Mummies Birth Buddy at NN3 6PA. Claire: 07966 288236

19:30-21:00TH at Om Studio. Claire: 07966 288236; £8 per class (book by 6-week term).

Feel confident in your ability to give birth

Duston

09:30-12:00T at Cripps Recreation Centre, Northampton General Hospital NN1 5BD. Denise: 01604 826066; For 0 - 4s, £9 per class (book by 6-week term). Swimming classes for 8/10 weeks old - 5 yrs

Baby Stay & Play: 09:30-10:30T; For 0s Baby Bookstart Club: 10:45-11:15T; For 0s, Fortnightly group

Moulton

Toddle Inn

10:30 - 12:00 & 13:30 - 15:00T at Carey Baptist Church, 34 West Street NN3 7SB For 0 - 4s.

Northampton Centre

Active Baby Company Swimming

42 We update these listings every issue, but recommend you call before attending - just in case.

Northampton Area

T = Term Time H = Holidays

Weds 10:30am, £4.00 per session

Discover sensory toys, lights and puppets plus experience a live musician! Newborn to walkers. Book places in advance.

Open Stage, Perry Street, Northampton, NN1 4HL

openstage@rocketmail.com | www.facebook.com/openstage.northampton

07878 766955

www.openstage.vpweb.co.uk

Yoga Tigers (yoga for 2-5 year olds)

Yeoman of England, Northampton, NN4 6LP. £4 per family - Call Sam on 07875 024 301 sam@yogatigers.co.uk - www.yogatigers.co.uk Because making shapes with your body is fun!

‘An excellent environment which is� welcoming, nurturing and inclusive to all.’�

‘Outstanding’ Ofsted report� Feb 2012�

www.littlehoughtondaynursery.co.uk� Bedford Rd, Little Houghton, NN7 1AB� 01604 899338�

Midwife GTT Clinic: 08:45-12:00T Stay and Play: 09:45-11:15T

at Vernon Terrace Children’s Centre , Vernon Terrace NN1 5HE. 01604 633894.

Baby Massage: 10:00-11:00T; For 0s.

Parents & Tots Swim: 11:00-13:00T; Tots

go free. Max 2 kids under 8 per adult at The Mounts Baths, Upper Mounts NN1 3DN. 01604 837400.

Baby Massage

10:00-11:00T at St James Library, St James Road NN5 5LQ. 01604 620484; FREE (drop in).

For 6 weeks to 6 mths

Northampton Rhymetime

10:30-11:00T at Northamptonshire Central Library, Abington Street NN1 2BA. 0300 126 1000; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Postnatal Mum & Baby Yoga and Baby Massage

11:00-12:00TH at Sandy’s Yoga Studio, Central Northampton . Sandy: 07710 200434; For 0s, £8.50 per session (book by 8-week term). Stay for a hot drink & make new friends

Big Bumps & New Mums’ Lunch

11:00-14:00TH at At NCT members’ houses.

Loretta: 07968288975; £1 (donation). For bump - 3 mths on 19th July & 23rd August

YWCA Play & Learn Group

12:45-14:45TH at 2 Castilian Terrace, NN1 1LD. Alison: 01604 601515; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Bumps & Babies with H/V

13:00-14:30T at Spring Lane Children’s Centre (in Annex), Spring Lane NN1 2JW. 01604 620484; For bump - 0s, FREE (drop in). 2nd & 4th Thurs of month

In the Water

Mums & Tots: 13:00-15:00TH 16-25 Young Parents Group: 15:30-17:30T at Spring Lane Children’s Centre, Spring Lane NN1 2JW. 01604 620484; FREE.

Museum Toddler Craft Session

13:00-15:00T at Northampton Museum, 1 Guildhall Road NN1 1DP. 01604 838111; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Location alternates with Abington museum

Aqualight Aqua-natal / Aqua Yoga

18:00-18:45T at Barry Road Pool , Covington Street NN1 5JU. Emie: 01604 83 04 05; For bump - 0s, (book by 11-week term). From 12 wks pregnant and postnatal mums

St Crispin

Little Bundles

10:00-11:00TH at Berrywood Church, 22 Berrywood Drive NN5 6GB. Andrew: 01604 948255; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Coffee, cake, chat & advice for new mums

St James

Lyncrest Toddler Group

09:30-11:30T at Lyncrest Primary School, Lyncrest Avenue NN5 5PE. 01604 751336; For 0 - 5s, £1 per family. Includes snack and drink.

Thorplands

Proud Young Parents

Parklands

Parklands Mums & Tots Group

13:15-14:45T at Parklands Community Centre, Devon Way NN3 6DX. ; For 0 - 5s, £2 (drop in).

Different activity each week and raffle!

Pitsford

HypnoBirthing Introduction Class

20:00-20:45TH at ABC Birthing, NN6. 01604 643356; For bump, FREE (please book). Learn more about HypnoBirthing for free

Rectory Farm

Rectory Farm Toddler Group

09:30-11:00T at Rectory Farm Primary School, Olden Rd NN3 5DD. ; For 0 - 4s, .

11:30-13:00T at Thorplands Children’s Centre, Farm Field Court NN3 8AQ. 01604 741131; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). For under 25s

Weston Favell

Tumble Tots

09:30-12:15TH at St Peters Church Hall, 76 High Street NN3 3JX. Naomi: 07779 785 166; For 0 - 5s, £5.50 per class (book by term).

Structured play for kids 6 mths+. Free taster

Wootton Fields

Wootton Fields Rhymetime

10:15-10:45T at Wootton Fields Library, NN4 6TP. 0300 126 1000; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Friday

Spencer

Toy Library: 13:00-16:30TH; For 0 - 5s.

Stay & Play: 13:00-15:00TH Up to 8s in hols

at Camrose Children’s Centre, Tenby Road NN5 7DF. 01604 585219; FREE (drop in).

Music & Signing

Physical Fun

Abington

The Kids Kitchen Cookery Classes

10:00-11:00TH at The Kids Kitchen, 44 Beech Avenue NN3 2HE. 01604 710102 ; For 2 - 5s, £7.25 per child (please book). OPEN throughout the Summer Holidays!

Arts & Crafts

For Pregnancy 43

Daily Activity Planner

‘Multi Sensory Hoo Ha!’ Class

Daily Activity Planner

Northampton Area Abington Rhymetime

14:15-14:45T at Abington Library, Lindsay Avenue NN3 2SJ. 0300 126 1000; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Blackthorn

Family Worker Drop In: 09:00-09:30T For

information and support

Breastfeeding, Bumps and a Biscuit:

11:30-12:30T at Blackthorn Children’s Centre, Longmead Ct NN3 8QD. 01604 413504; FREE (drop in).

Boothville

Well Woman Yoga: 08:30-11:00TH; £8 per

class. Postnatal course with yoga for mum.

Pregnancy Yoga: 11:30-13:00T; £8 per session. Feel confident in your ability to give birth With Mummies Birth Buddy. Claire: 07966 288236. (Please book)

Collingtree

Active Baby Company Swimming

13:15-14:45T at Hilton Hotel, 100 Watering Lane NN4 0XW. Denise: 01604 826066; For 0 - 5s, £9 per class (book by 6-week term).

Swimming classes for 8/10 weeks old - 5 yrs

Delapre

Water Babies

10:00-13:30T at Marriott Hotel, Eagle Drive NN4 7HW. 01295 709221; For 0 - 4s, £13 per class (book by 10-week term). Fun, action packed, progressive swim classes

Stay and Play

13:00-14:30TH at Gloucester Nursery School & Children’s Centre, Cambourne Close NN4 8PH. 01604 762251; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Duston

Duston & Villages NCT Group

= Advertiser has special offer voucher in our centre pages Kings Heath

09:45-11:45TH at Various parents’ houses, Duston & Surrounding Villages NN5. Lucy: 07940 368828 ; For bump - 4s, £0.50 per family (donation). Everyone welcome!

Earls Barton

Earls Barton Rhymetime

14:30-15:00T at Earls Barton Library, Broad Street NN6 0ND. 0300 126 1000; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Hardingstone

Northampton High Toddler Group

13:30-15:00T at Northampton High School, Newport Pagnell Road NN4 6UU. Jo: 01604 667979; For 2 - 3s, £1.50 per session (drop in).

Headlands

Action Kids: 09:00-10:00TH; 1 - 5s.

Stay and Play Drop in: 09:30-11:30T at Camrose Children’s Centre, 16 Park Square NN5 7LQ. 01604 757694; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Monday sessions start at 9:30 & 13:00

Kingsthorpe

Fun & Fitness: 09:30-10:30TH; For 1 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Soft play Footprints: 13:00-15:00TH; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). For young parents 16-24yrs at Kingsthorpe Children’s Centre, St.Davids Road NN2 6NS. 01604 791537 Toddle Time: 10:15-10:45T Bounce and Rhyme: 11:00-11:30T at Kingsthorpe Library, Welford Road NN2 6AG. 0300 126 1000; 0 - 5s, FREE. Musical Minis

Headlands Parent and Toddler Group

10:30-11:00T at Kingsthorpe Baptist Church, High Street . Amanda: 01908 259914; For 0 - 5s, £4.25 per session (please book). Free trial offer voucher in centre pages

Hunsbury

Little Kickers

12:30-15:00T at Fairfields School, Trinity Avenue NN2 6JN. Emie: 01604 83 04 05; For 0 - 5s, (book by 11-week term). Teaching with respect, love and knowledge

Tiddler Swim Lessons: 09:00-11:00T; For 0 -

Active Baby Company Swimming

09:00-11:00T at Headlands Lower School, Bushland Road NN3 2NS. Julie: 01604 413462; For 0 - 4s, £1 per family (drop in). Snacks & loads of activities - all welcome!

09:45-11:30TH at The Abbey Centre, Overslade Close NN4 0RZ. Lynne: 01788 899102; For 18mths - 3s, (please book). Fun football classes 5s, (please book). Parent & baby swim lessons

Pre-school Gymnastics: 15:45-16:30T; 3-5s

at Danes Camp Leisure Centre, Clannell Road NN4 0RX. 01604 837200.

Abbey Centre Baby & Toddler Group

12:30-14:30T at Abbey Centre, Overslade Close NN4 0RZ. Becky: 01604 701980; For 0 - 5s, £1.50 per family (drop in). All welcome

Aqualight Babies Swimming Class

Northampton Centre

09:00-12:00T at Cripps Recreation Centre, Northampton General Hospital NN1 5BD. Denise: 01604 826066; For 0 - 4s, £9 per class (book by 6-week term). Swimming classes for 8/10 weeks old - 5 yrs

Mini Music & Baby Music

9.30-10:30 (1-5s) & 10.30-11:30 (0-12m)TH at Vernon Terrace Children’s Centre, NN1 5HE. 01604 633894.

An Early Start Early learning provision at Northampton High School provides girls aged 3 to 4 with the best possible start to their education in a happy and caring community.

• • • • • • •

A safe and secure environment with excellent facilities Fully qualified teachers and nursery nurses Outstanding Inspection report spring 2011 Covered all-weather outdoor play area Care from 7.45 am to 6pm in term time Fresh, nutritious meals Toddler group for 2-3 year olds on Friday afternoons

October 2012 OPEN DAY 610am - 1pm Come and Visit Us

Please Call 01604 765765 www.gdst.net/northamptonhigh

44 We update these listings every issue, but recommend you call before attending - just in case.

T = Term Time H = Holidays 09:30-11:15T at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, 147-155 Kettering Road NN1 4BS. 01604 516809; For 0 - 5s, .

Northampton Baby Cafe

10:00-12:00T at The Friends Meeting House, Wellington Street NN1 3AS. 07780 672939; For 0 - 2s, FREE (drop in). Breastfeeding support + drink & biscuit Pre-school Swim Lessons: 11:45-14:00T; For 0 - 5s, (please book).

Parents & Tots Swim: 14:00-15:30T; For 0 5s. Tots go free. Max 2 kids under 8 per adult at The Mounts Baths, Upper Mounts NN1 3DN. 01604 837400

Queens Park

Natural Bootcamp

10:30-11:30TH at The Racecourse, opp.

Northampton Uni main building, St Georges Ave. 07812 973562; £5 per session (book).

Natural fitness sessions - results guaranteed!

Spencer

Bumps, Babies & Breastfeeding Buddies

09:00-12:00TH at Streatfield Road, NN5 7DF. 01604 585219; For 0 - 2s, FREE (drop in).

Deafconnect Parent and Toddler Group

09:30-11:30T at Spencer Dallington Community Centre, Tintern Avenue NN5 7BZ. 01604 589011; For 0 - 5s, £2 per family (drop in). Group for deaf parents or children.

St Crispin

Bible Discussion Group & Toddler Fun

10:00-12:00TH at Berrywood Church, 22 Berrywood Drive NN5 6GB. Andrew: 01604 948255; For 0 - 5s, FREE. Discuss the bible in a child-friendly setting

In the Water

Northampton Area St James

Preston Hedgehogs

Stay & Play

09:30-11:30TH at St James Clinic, 116 St James Road NN5 5LQ. 01604 585219; For 0 - 5s, FREE.

Happy Feet Mums and Tots Group

10:00-11:30T at Elim Church, Gladstone Rd NN5 7EG. Michelle: 07931316323; For bump 4s, £1.50 per family (drop in). 50p per extra child over 2 children

Thorplands

‘Les Canetons’ French Singing Group

15:30-16:30T at Lodge Farm Barn, Crestwood Rd NN3 8JJ. Catherine: 07985 712339; For 0 5s, £3.70 per session (please book). French for littlies: speaktheirlanguage.co.uk Health Visitor Drop In: 09:00-10:30TH. Little Stars: 13:00-14:30TH; For 0-5s with additional needs (fortnightly) Toddle Tots: 13:00-14:30TH; 1-3s, fortnightly at Thorplands Children’s Centre, Farm Field Court NN3 8AQ. 01604 741131. FREE drop in

Children’s Football

15:00-16:30T Run by Thorplands Children’s Centre, Thorplands Primary School Playing Field NN3. 01604 741131; For 2 - 5s, FREE (drop in). 15:00 (2-5yrs) & 15:30 (6-11yrs)

Weston Favell

Tumble Tots

09:30-13:45TH at St Peters Church Hall, 76 High Street NN3 3JX. Naomi: 07779 785 166; For 0 - 5s, £5.50 per class (book by term).

Structured play for kids 6 mths+. Free taster

Wootton

Wootton Trinity Toddler Group

09:30-11:30T at Wootton Trinity Church, High Street NN4 6LP. Mandy: 01604 764605; For 0 5s, £2 per family (drop in). Craft session & play

Music & Signing

Physical Fun

09:30-11:30T at Wootton Community & Sports Centre, Curtlee Hill NN4 6ED. 07854 441062; For 0 - 5s, £2.50 per family (drop in). Play, snacks and songs. Open to all carers.

Saturday

Abington

The Kids Kitchen Cookery Classes

10:00-11:00TH at The Kids Kitchen, 44 Beech Avenue NN3 2HE. 01604 710102 ; For 2 - 5s, £7.25 per child (please book). OPEN throughout the Summer Holidays!

Open Stage Dance, Drama & Singing

Little Stars Ballet, Tap & Modern Dance: 09:15-10:00TH; For 2 - 4s, £4 per class.

Dancing & Singing!

Preparatory Ballet: 10:15-11:00TH; For 4 - 6s, £4 per class. Ballet, Tap & Modern dance Open Stage Juniors: 11:30-12:30T; For 5-12s, £5 per class. Glee Style’ fun Musical Theatre Great Big Noise!: 12:30-13:00TH; For 2 - 4s, £3 p/class. Song, Dance, Percussion & Parachutes Zumbatomic!: 12:30-13:00T ; For 5-12s, £3 per class. Zumba for 5 - 12 years Junior Singing Class: 13:00-13:30TH; For 5-12s, £3 per class.

Adult Ballet: 14:30-15:30T; , £5 (please book).

FREE Baby & Pre-School Childcare. Starts Sept with Open Stage at St Michael and All Angels Church Halls, Perry Street NN1 4HL. 07878 766955. Please book a place at all classes

Aqualight Babies Swimming Class

14:00-18:00T at Barry Road School Baths, Barry Road NN1 5JS . Emie: 01604 83 04 05; For 0 - 5s, (book by 11-week term). Teaching with respect, love and knowledge

Arts & Crafts

For Pregnancy 45

Daily Activity Planner

Chatterbox

Daily Activity Planner

Northampton & South Northants Area Duston

Dads Matter

11:00-12:00T at Duston Library Children’s Centre, Pendle Road NN5 6DT. 01604 752891; For 0 - 5s, FREE. Fortnightly group

Harlestone

Natural Bootcamp

10:00-11:00TH at Harlestone Firs. 07812 973562 ; , £5 per session (please book).

Natural fitness sessions. Results guaranteed!

Kings Heath

Dads’ Stay & Play

10:00-12:00TH at Camrose Children’s Centres , 16 Park Square NN5 7LQ. 01604 585219 ; For 0 - 5s, FREE. Last Sat of every month

Kingsthorpe

Aqualight Babies Swimming Class

08:30-12:30T at Fairfields School, Trinity Avenue NN2 6JN. Emie: 01604 83 04 05; For 0 - 5s, (book by 11-week term). Teaching with respect, love and knowledge

Dads’ Group

10:00-12:00TH at Kingsthorpe Children’s Centre , St.Davids Road NN2 6NS. 01604 791537 ; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Every 3rd Saturday

Northampton Centre

Aqualight Babies Swimming Class

09:00-11:30T at Park Inn, Silver Street NN1.

Emie: 01604 83 04 05; For 0 - 3s, (book by 11week term). Teaching with respect, love and knowledge

= Advertiser has special offer voucher in our centre pages

Sunday

Dads’ Group

10:00-12:00T at Spring Lane Children’s Centre, Spring Lane NN1 2JW. 01604 620484; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Once a month - call for dates

Abington

Aqualight Babies Swimming

Queens Park

15:00-17:00T at Barry Road School Baths, Barry Road NN1 5JS . Emie: 01604 83 04 05; For 0 - 5s, (book by 11-week term). Teaching with respect, love and knowledge

Natural Bootcamp

11:30-12:30TH at The Racecourse, opp.

Northampton Uni main building, St Georges Ave NN2 6JD. 07812 973562 ; , £5 per session (please book). Natural fitness sessions - results guaranteed!

Duston

Little Kickers

09:30-12:30TH at The Duston School, Berrywood Road NN5 6XA. Lynne: 01788 899102; For 1 - 5s, (please book). Fun football classes from 18 mths+

The Mounts Messy Church

11:00-13:00TH at Duke Street Evangelical Church, 4-8 Duke Street NN1 3BA. Moyra:01604 635535; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

2012 dates: Apr 28, Jun 30, Sep 29, Nov 24

Kingsthorpe

Story Stomp

Weston Favell

10:30-11:00T at Kingsthorpe Library, Welford Road NN2 6AG. 0300 126 1000; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Once a month - call to check time/date

Gymnastics for Fun: 08:45-11:45T Trampoline for Fun: 08:45-11:45T

at Lings Forum Leisure Centre, Billing Brook Road NN3 8JR. 01604 837 300; For 2 - 5s.

Wootton

Tumble Tots

09:30-13:30TH at Wootton Community Centre, Curtlee Hill NN4 6ED. Naomi: 07779 785 166; For 0 - 4s, £5.50 per class (book by term).

Structured play for 6 mths+. Free taster

Search online to see all our directory listings! www.toddleabout.co.uk

Daily Activity Planner: South Northants Area Your local ‘What’s on Guide’ in your area for bumps - 5s and parents

Monday Bicester

Sing & Sign Baby Signing Classes

09:45-12:00TH at Sing & Sign, Salvation Army Building OX26 4FR. 01280 704705; For 0 - 1s, £6 per class (book by 10-week term). Help your baby to ‘talk’ BEFORE speech!

Brackley

Noah’s Ark Parent & Toddler Group

09:30-11:30T at Methodist Church, High St NN13 7DT; For 0 - 4s.

Childminder Support Group

09:30-11:30T run by Brackley Children’s Centre at Women’s Institute Hall. Laura: 01280 841674; 0 - 5s, FREE drop in. Last Mon of mth

Preschool Gymnastics

13:45-14:45T at Brackley Leisure Centre, NN13 6JJ. 01280 701789; For 3 - 5s, (book).

Read & Relax Book Club

19:00-20:00TH at Brackley Children’s Centre, Manor Road NN13 6AJ. 01280 841674 ; For bump - 5s, (please book). 1st Mon of mth.

Small charge.

Bugbrooke

Tea & Toast Parents Drop-in

09:00-10:00T at Bugbrooke Children’s Centre, NN7 3PA. 01604 831575; Free

Greens Norton Tots Own

13:45-15:15T at Community Centre, Towcester Road . 01327 351864; For 0 - 5s, £1 p/c (drop in). Stories & crafts

Middleton Cheney

Middleton Cheney Stay & Play

10:00-11:30T at Middleton Cheney Children’s Centre, OX17 2PD. 01295 714143; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Crafts, games & toys. Exc. Bank hols

Silverstone

ASA Swimming Lessons: 16:00-18:00T; For

3 - 5s, (book by 6-week term). at Towcester Centre for Leisure, Springfields NN12 6UW. 01327 322480

Tuesday

Silverstone Stay & Play

Banbury

Tiffield

10:00-13:00TH at Hanwell Fields Community Centre, Rotary Way OX16 1ER. Simone: 07921460086; For 0 - 5s, £4 per family (drop in). Fortnightly group

10:00-11:30T with Towcester CC at St. Michael’s Church. 01327 350272; For 0 - 3s, FREE (drop in).

Little Turtle Swim Company

09:30-12:30T at Gateway School, St. Johns Rd NN12 8AA. Zara: 01908 543384; For 0 - 5s, £10 per class (book by 6-week term). 30-min swim sessions for children 2 mths+

Towcester

Childminders Drop in

09:30-11:00T at Towcester Children’s Centre, Islington Road NN12 6AU. 01327 350272; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Fortnightly sessions

Baby Bumpkin

10:00-10:45TH at Tatty Bumpkin Classes, Brook Health Centre NN12 6HD. 0845 6804981 / 07580131842 ; For 0 - 1s, £5 per class (please book). Yoga-inspired sessions 6 wks-crawling

Breastfeeding Group

11:00-12:30T at Brook Health Centre, Swinneyford Road NN12 6HD. 01327 323900; For 0 - 2s, (drop in). Very informal and open to all mums

Mighty Atoms: 14:00-15:00T; For 0 - 5s, £2.90 per child (drop in). Soft play sessions.

Twins and Multiples Group

Brackley

Mighty Atoms

09:30-11:30T at Brackley Leisure Centre, Springfield Way NN13 6JJ. 01280 701787; For 0 - 5s, £3.20 per child (drop in). Soft play fun sessions

Little Fishes

09:30-12:00T at Baptist Church, Waynflete Close NN13 6AE. ; For 0 - 4s, (drop in). Sessions at 9:15-10:30 or 10:40 - 12:00 Baby Rhymetime: 09:30-11:15TH; For 0 - 6 months BABS Breastfeeding: 10:00-10:45TH Bromford: 12:30-16:00T; FREE (book).

Support with housing & finances Stay and Play: 13:30-14:45TH; For 1 - 5s, FREE (book).

Young Parents: 13:30-15:00TH For parents & parents-to-be under 23 yrs All at Brackley Children’s Centre, Manor Road NN13 6AJ. 01280 841674; FREE.

46 We update these listings every issue, but recommend you call before attending - just in case.

T = Term Time H = Holidays

South Northants Area Middleton Cheney

Towcester

Bugbrooke

10:00-11:00T at Middleton Cheney Children’s Centre, Library OX17 2PD. 01295 714143; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). 2nd & 4th weeks of mth

09:30-11:00T at Bugbrooke Children’s Centre, High St. NN7 3PA. 01604 831575; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Friendly & fun drop in group

10:00-11:30T at Middleton Cheney Children’s Centre, Library OX17 2PD. 01295 714143; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). 1st & 3rd Tues of month

09:45-12:00TH at Sing & Sign, Brook Health Centre NN12 6HD. 01280 704705; For 0 - 1s, £6 per class (book by 11-week term). Help your baby to ‘talk’ BEFORE speech!

Mighty Atoms: 09:30-11:30T; For 0 - 5s, £3.20 per child (drop in). Soft play sessions.

ASA Swimming Lessons: 16:00-18:00T; For 3 - 5s, (book by 6-week term). at Towcester Leisure Centre, Springfields NN12 6UW. 01327 322480

16:00-16:30T at Brackley Pool, Manor Rd NN13 6EE. 01280 704906; For 0 - 3s, (please book).

Bugbrooke Stay & Play

Tiny Tots Service

14:15-15:15T at St. Michael and All Angels C of E Church, Church Ln NN7 3PB. 01604 830373; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Singing & story then toy-time

Melody Bear Movement Classes

16:30-17:15TH at Bugbrooke Sunday School Rooms, Church Lane NN7 3PB. Jodie: 07711683077; For 2 - 4s, . Helps children learn confidence and rhythm

Deanshanger

Stay & Play

10:00-11:30T at Deanshanger Children’s Centre, Little London MK19 6HU. 01327 350272; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Denton

Village Tots

14:00-16:00T at Denton Village Hall, Vicarage Lane NN7 1DL. 07919 185149; 0 - 5s, £1.50 (drop in). 2nd Tues of mth = baby weighing

Litchborough

Litchborough Play Time

14:00-15:30TH at Litchborough Village Hall, Northampton Road NN12 8JA. Vanessa: 01327 830823; For 0 - 4s, £1.50 per family (drop in). Crafts & singing

Creative Play

Health Visitor Drop In

Potterspury

Potterspury Under Fives

13:00-15:00T at Potterspury Village Hall, Church End NN12 7PX. Cathryn: 07961 587236; For 0 - 5s, £2 per family (drop in).

Mother/child stay & play with refreshments

Sing & Sign Baby Signing Classes

Bumps & Babies: 10:30-11:45T; For bumps & babies up to 18 months Creative Play: 14:00-15:00T; For 0 - 5s, at Towcester Children’s Centre, Islington Road NN12 6AU. 01327 350272; FREE.

Roade

Stay & Play: 10:00-11:30T; For 0 - 5s, FREE

Wednesday

(drop in). Crafts, games & toys Multiple Births Group: 14:00-16:00T; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). at Roade Children’s Centre, Stratford Road NN7 2LP. 01604 863319

Banbury

Water Babies

Krystle Jayne’s Dance Academy

10:00-13:30T at Sibford School, Sibford Ferris OX15 5QL. 01295 709221; For 0 - 4s, £13 per class (book by 10-week term). Fun, action packed, progressive swim classes

Tiffield

Outside Fun: 10:00-11:30TH 2nd & 4th wks Job Centre Plus: 14:30-16:00T 2nd Wed

16:00-20:30T at St Mary’s Church Hall, Butlins Lane NN7 2PU. Krystle: 07791 852891; For 2 - 5s, (please book). Ballet, tap, modern & salsa for 2.5yrs+

Water Babies

11:00-13:00T at Gateway School, St Johns Road NN12 8AA. 01295 709221; For 0 - 4s, £13 per class (book by 10-week term). Fun, action packed, progressive swim classes

Brackley

at Brackley Children’s Centre, Brackley Library NN13 6AJ. 01280 841674; FREE (drop in). .

Musical Minis

13:30-14:15T at Brackley Children’s Centre, Manor Road NN13 6AJ. Amanda: 01908 259914; For 0 - 5s, £4.25 per session (please book). Free trial offer voucher in centre pages

Announcing! Northamptonshire’s 1st

PAY AS YOU GO Day Nursery

Only pay for the time that your child attends - pay nothing whilst you are on holiday, this saved money could pay for your holiday! Children 6 months to 5 years.

Lovely rural setting with excellent access from Northampton, Towcester and South Northamptonshire villages.

®

For further information contact Jasmin on 01604 859869 or 07905 059279.

Yoga inspired classes/parties to aid creativity and development in your baby and child

www.facebook.com/robinsnestchildrensnursery Email: robinsnestchildrensnursery@gmail.com Shutlanger Village Hall, 4 Main Road, Shutlanger, Towcester, Northamtonshire, NN12 7RU

Open 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday plus Occasional Saturday Crèche In the Water

Music & Signing

from 6 weeks to 9 years

www.miltonkeynes.tattybumpkin.com classes@miltonkeynes.tattybumpkin.com 0845 6804981• 07580131842

Physical Fun

Arts & Crafts

For Pregnancy 47

Daily Activity Planner

Swim and Sing Lessons

= Advertiser has special offer voucher in our centre pages

Daily Activity Planner

South Northants Area Pattishall

Baby Massage

13:30-14:30T at Brackley Children’s Centre, Women’s Institute NN13. 01280 841674; For 0s, FREE (please book).

Preschool Football Classes

16:00-17:00T at Brackley Leisure Centre, Springfield Way NN13 6JJ. 01280 701790; For 4s, (book by term).

Bugbrooke

Bumps & Babies

11:00-12:00T at Bugbrooke Children’s Centre, Bugbrooke Primary School NN7 3PA. 01604 831575; For bump 1s, FREE (drop in). For babies from bump to 18 months

Pattishall Mums & Tots

12:30-15:00T at Pattishall Parish Hall , School Road NN12 8NN. ; For 0 - 4s, £1.50 (drop in).

F & J’s Childminding Services

Towcester NCT Social Evenings

20:00-22:00T at The Plough Inn, 96 Watling Street East NN12 6BT. Helen: 01280 701079; For bump - 5s, FREE. Runs 3rd Wed of the mth.

Non-members welcome.

Weston

Professionally qualified and Ofsted registered “Home from home” childcare in Towcester 7.30am to 6.30pm, Monday to Friday Tel: 01327 354817 | www.fjchildminding.co.uk

Roade

Health Visitor Drop In: 10:15-11:45T; For

Childminder Support Group

0 - 5s, 4th Wed of month Bumps & Babies: 10:30-11:45T; For babies from bump to 18 months at Roade Children’s Centre, Stratford Road NN7 2LP. 01604 863319. FREE.

Deanshanger Toddler Group

16:00-16:30T at Roade Library, High Street NN7 2NW. 01604 863783; For 4 - 5s, FREE.

Deanshanger

09:30-11:30T at Deanshanger Community Centre, Little London MK19 6HT. Rachel: 01908 261864; For 0 - 5s, £2 per person. Meet other childminders 13:30-15:00T at Holy Trinity Church, Wicken Road MK19 6JP. 01908 564725; For 0 - 4s, FREE (drop in).

Middleton Cheney

Middleton Cheney Rhymetime

10:00-10:30T at Middleton Cheney Library, Main Road OX17 2PD. 0300 126 1000; For 0 5s, FREE (drop in). 1st Wed of the month

Bumps & Babies: 10:30-11:45T; For bump 18mths, FREE (drop in).

Growing Days: 13:30-15:00T; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). 3rd Wed of Mth at Middleton Cheney Children’s Centre, OX17 2PD. 01295 714143

Weston Tiny Tots

10:00-11:30T at Weston Community Project, Weston Baptist Chapel NN12 8PU. Rosemary: 01295 760720; For 0 - 5s, £2 (drop in).

Roade Storytime

Towcester

Wednesday Tots

09:30-11:00T at St John’s Ambulance Hall, Islington Rd NN12. 01327 352321; For 0 - 4s, £1.40 per family (drop in). Includes sing-song

Thursday

Ashton

Ashton Parent & Toddler Group

13:30-15:00T at Ashton CE Primary School, Roade Hill NN7 2JH. Laura: 07825 371624; For 0 - 5s, £1 (drop in).

Banbury

Sing & Sign Baby Signing Classes

13:30-16:00TH at Rugrats & Half Pints, Beaumont Road OX16 1QY. 01280 704705; For 0 - 1s, £6 per class (book by 11-week term).

Help your baby to ‘talk’ BEFORE speech!

Brackley

First Steps Parent & Toddler Group

ASA Swimming Lessons

09:15-11:30TH at St Peter’s Church, St Peter’s Road NN13 7BZ. Val: 01280 701864 ; For 0 - 4s, £1.50 per family (drop in). 10am-12pm in school holidays

Little Stars Young Parents Group

09:30-11:30T at St Peters Church, Church Road; For 0 - 4s, .

10:00-11:00T at Towcester Leisure Centre, Springfields NN12 6UW. 01327 322480; For 3 5s, (book by 6-week term). Swimming lessons for children aged 3yrs+ 10:30-12:00T at Towcester Children’s Centre, Islington Road NN12 6AU. 01327 350272; For 0 - 5s, FREE. For parents 16 - 21 yrs old

Sparrows Toddler Group

Hedgehog Hill Nursery and Pre-School High Street, Greens Norton

Come and visit our: • ‘Cuddly Cubs’ baby suite • Spacious ‘Happy Hippos’ toddler room • Stimulating ‘Funky Monkeys’ pre-school

‘Nurturing happy, confident children’ 012 www.hedgehoghill.org 01327 323

Deanshanger Village Playgroup

Well established Ofsted registered childcare from 30 months to age 4 in the heart of Deanshanger village.

Friendly staff provide a fun learning environment for your pre-schooler. Free places for 3 years and over available Mon - Fri term time.

Deanshanger Village Playgroup, The Community Centre, Little London, Deanshanger, Milton Keynes, MK19 6HT. Call: 01908 263295. Charity Number - 1029968 Free taster session - use the voucher in the centre pages.

48 We update these listings every issue, but recommend you call before attending - just in case.

T = Term Time H = Holidays

South Northants Area

Daily Activity Planner

Mighty Atoms

09:30-11:30T at Brackley Leisure Centre, Springfield Way NN13 6JJ. 01280 701787; For 0 - 5s, £3.20 per child (drop in). Soft play New Baby & You: 10:00-11:30TH. FREE (drop in). For babies 6-12 months Fit to be Mum: 13:30-14:30T; FREE (please book). For parents with babies 0-6 mths Parent Craft: 18:00-20:00TH; For bump, FREE (book). 3-week course every other month at Brackley Children’s Centre, Manor Road NN13 6AJ. 01280 841674

Evenley

Parent & Toddler Group

Sing & Sign Baby Signing Classes

09:45-12:00TH at Evenley Village Hall, Broad Lane NN13 5SD. 01280 704705; For 0 - 1s, £6 per class (book by 11-week term). Help your baby to ‘talk’ BEFORE speech!

Greens Norton

Lazy Daisy Birth Preparation Class

19:30-20:45TH at The Rocking Horse Day Nursery, 21 Mill Lane NN12 8BB. 07590 928944; For bumps, (please book). Antenatal classes preparing you for birth

Brackley Rhymetime

Kislingbury

Swim and Sing Swimming Lessons

09:30-11:30T at Kislingbury Baptist Church, Mill Road NN7 4BB. 07962 157669; For 0-4s, £1 p/family drop in.

14:15-14:45TH at Brackley Library, Manor Road NN13 6AJ. 0300 126 1000; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

16:00-16:30T at Brackley Pool, Manor Rd NN13 6EE. 01280 704906; For 0 - 3s, (please book). 30 min swim and sing lessons

Bugbrooke

Bugbrooke Mums & Tots

09:00-11:00T at Sunday School, Church Lane NN7 3PB. ; For 0 - 4s, FREE (donation). Toys, painting & craft activities Creative Play: 09:30-10:30T Health Visitor Drop In: 13:30-14:15T; 1st Thurs of Mth Bugbrooke Stay & Play: 15:00-16:15T Friendly & fun drop in group at Bugbrooke Children’s Centre, Bugbrooke Primary School High St. NN7 3PA. 01604 831575; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Deanshanger

Bumps & Babies

11:15-12:15T at Deanshanger Children’s Centre, MK19 6HT. 01327 350272; FREE (drop in). Inc. H/V 1st Thurs of mth

In the Water

Kizzle Tots

Roade

Stay & Play

10:00-11:30T at Roade Children’s Centre, Stratford Road NN7 2LP. 01604 863319; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Crafts, games & toys

Krystle Jayne’s Dance Academy

16:00-19:30T at St Mary’s Church Hall, Butlins Lane NN7 2PU. 07791 852891; Please book.

Ballet, tap, modern & salsa for 2.5yrs+

Silverstone

13:30-15:00T at Methodist Chapel Rooms, Murswell lane NN12 8UT. Catherine: 07849 612578; For 0 - 4s, £1.80 per family (drop in).

Stony Stratford Musical Minis

09:30-10:15T at York House Centre, London Road MK11 1JQ. Amanda: 01908 259914; For 0 - 5s, £4.25 per session (please book). Free trial offer voucher in centre pages

Baby Bumpkin

11:15-12:00TH at Whitespace Yoga and Wellbeing Studio, 5 St Pauls Court High Street MK11 1LJ. 0845 6804981 / 07580131842; For 0 - 1s, £5 per class (please book). Yogainspired sessions: babies 6wks-crawling

Water Babies

14:30-16:30T at Watling Way Centre, Galley Hill MK11 1PA. 01295 709221; For 0 - 4s, £13 per class (book by 10-week term). Fun, action packed, progressive swim classes

Story & Rhyme Time

14:00-14:30TH at Stony Stratford Library, 5-7 Church St MK11 1BD. 01908 562562; For 0 4s, FREE (drop in).

Towcester

Towcester Toy Library

Silverstone Tiny Tots

09:30-11:30TH at Towcester Community Centre, Islington Road NN12. Sheila: 01327 860437; For 0 - 5s, £1.50 per family (drop in).

Toy hire 50p or £1 for 2 weeks

Musical Monkeys

ASA Swimming Lessons

09:15-10:30T at St Michael’s Church, High Street NN12 8US. 01327 857996; For 0 - 4s.

10:30-11:30TH at Silverstone Pavilion, Church Street NN12 8XA. 07917 683330; For 0 - 5s, £3.75 per child (drop in). 4.75 per family.

Entertainment show & cake!

Music & Signing

Physical Fun

09:30-18:00T at Towcester Leisure Centre, Springfields NN12 6UW. 01327 322480; For 3 - 5s, (book by 6-week term).

Arts & Crafts

For Pregnancy 49

= Advertiser has special offer voucher in our centre pages

Daily Activity Planner

South Northants Area NC Tea Group

10:00-11:30TH at The Bell Plantation Coffee Shop, On the A5 NN12 6GX. Helen: 01280 701079 ; For bump - 5s, FREE (drop in). 1st Thursday of each month.

Tiggers Parent & Toddler Group

13:30-15:00T at Methodist Church, Chapel Hill High Street NN12 8US. 07854 309241; For 0 - 4s, £1.50.

Preschool Gymnastics

13:45-14:45T at Towcester Centre for Leisure, Springfields NN12 6UW. 01327 322480; For 3 5s, £5.80 per session (book by term).

Upper Heyford

Nether Heyford

10:00-12:00TH at Hill Farm, Upper Heyford NN7 3NB. Cheryl: 07989 777825; For 0 - 5s, £2 per family (drop in). 2nd Thurs of mth.

Westbury

Toddlers & Tiddlers Activity Sessions

10:00-11:30T at Beachborough School, Westbury NN13 5LB. 01280 700071; For 0 - 5s.

Group runs monthly

Friday

11:00-13:00TH at The Baptist Chapel Rooms, The Green NN7 3LE. Lia: 07709 020378; For 0 5s, £1 (drop in). Plse bring packed lunch!

Brackley

Stony Stratford

10:00-11:30T at St. Peter’s Church, Church Road NN13; For 0 - 4s, .

10:00-11:00TH at York House, London Road MK11 1JQ. 07917 683330; For 0 - 5s, £3.75 per child (drop in). 4.75 per family. Entertainment show & cake!

Tadpoles Toddler Group

Croughton Mother & Toddler Group

10:00-12:00T at Croughton Village Hall, Wheeler’s Rise NN13 5ND. Beckie: 01869 819734; For 0 - 4s, £2 (drop in).

10:00-11:30TH at Brackley Children’s Centre, Brackley Library NN13 6AJ. 01280 841674; For 0s, FREE (drop in). For babies 0-6 mths

Bugbrooke

Childminding Group

09:30-11:15T at Bugbrooke Children’s Centre, Bugbrooke Primary School NN7 3PA. 01604 831575; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Deanshanger

Deanie Tots

Sing & Sign Baby Signing Classes

09:45-12:00TH at Grimsbury Community Hall, Burchester Place OX16 3JT. 01280 704705; For 0 - 1s, £6 per class (book by term). Help your baby to ‘talk’ BEFORE speech!

Water Babies

13:15-15:45T at Sibford School, Sibford Ferris OX15 5QL. 01295 709221; For 0 - 4s, £13 per class (book by 10-week term). Fun, action packed, progressive swim classes

Nether Heyford Little Fishes

10:00-11:30T at Blakesley Village Hall, Blakesley NN12. ; For 0 - 5s, £1.50 per family (drop in). Includes drink & a biscuit

New Baby & You

Attachment Parenting Group

Banbury

Blakesley

Blakesley Toddler Group

09:30-11:30TH at Community Centre, MK19 6HT. 07710845865 or 07717316408; For 0 - 5s, £2 per family (drop in). Variety of toys & crafts

Deanshanger Rhymetime

11:15-11:45T at Deanshanger Library, Little London MK19 6HT. 0300 126 1000; FREE.

Greens Norton Music Bugs

Musical Monkeys

Towcester Stay & Play

10:00-11:30T at Towcester Children’s Centre, Towcester Community Centre NN12. 01327 350272; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Toddle Time: 10:00-11:15T; For 1 - 5s, Start 10 & 10:45: For walkers (2nd+4th Fri) Bounce and Rhyme: 11:30-12:00T; 0-1s, For non-walkers (2nd+4th Fri) at Towcester Library, Richmond Road NN12 7EX. 01327 350794. FREE (drop in).

ASA Swimming Lessons

10:30-18:00T at Towcester Leisure Centre, Springfields NN12 6UW. 01327 322480; For 3 - 5s, (book by 6-week term).

Towcester Twins Group

14:00-15:30T at The Clinic Room, Brook Health Centre NN12 6HD. Melanie: 01327 351097; For 0 - 5s, FREE. Fortnightly group: ring for dates

Wicken

10:15-11:00T at Greens Norton Community Centre, Towcester Road NN12 8BL. 0844 822 1158; For 0 - 4s, (please book). Fun music sessions for 6 mths - 4 yrs

Akeley Wood Baby & Toddler Group

10:00-11:30T at Akeley Wood Junior School, Wicken MK19 6DA. 01908 571231; For 0 - 3s, FREE (drop in). Indoor and outdoor activities

Dance & Movement with Melody Bear

Pre-school Dance Classes

ENTERTAINMENT SHOW

Interactive musical fun and other surprises for accompanied pre-school children.

Delicious cake selection and drinks included!

It’s a party every week!

Shows in Daventry & Silverstone. See our website for times & locations.

Prices from £2.75 & pay as you go.

Vanessa: 07917 683330 Ness: 07917 683330 www.musical-monkeys.com

www.musical-monkeys.com

Come and join in with Melody Bear. Our classes are a fun introduction for young children to the world of dance.

They promote co-ordination, physical fitness, agility and early learning curriculum skills.

Dance along, sing along, listen along all with Melody Bear.

Tuesday: 4.30 - 5.15pm Bugbrooke Sunday School Rooms.

Saturday: 9.30-10.00am Daventry Community Centre.

Suitable for children aged 2-4yrs.

Call Maureen on 01604 832311 www.performersacademy.org

50 We update these listings every issue, but recommend you call before attending - just in case.

T = Term Time H = Holidays

Swim and Sing Lessons

08:00-09:30T at Brackley Pool, Manor Rd NN13 6EE. 01280 704906; For 0 - 3s, (please book). 30 min swim and sing lessons

Dads ‘R’ Us: 10:00-11:30TH; For 0 - 5s,

FREE (please book). Mthly session First Aid Course: 10:00-12:00TH; For 0 - 5s, FREE (please book). Essential first aid training for parents Baby Led Weaning: 10:00-12:00TH; For 0s, FREE (please book). at Brackley Children’s Centre, Manor Road NN13 6AJ. 01280 841674

Mighty Atoms

10:30-12:30T at Brackley Leisure Centre, Springfield Way NN13 6JJ. 01280 701787; For 0 - 5s, £3.20 per child (drop in). Soft play fun sessions

Sunday

Musical Monkeys

14:00-15:00TH at Old School Hall, NN11 4BH. 07917 683330 ; For 0 - 5s, £3.75 per child (drop in). 4.75 per family. 1st & 3rd Saturday.

Stony Stratford Musical Minis

10:30-11:15T at Methodist Church Hall , Silver Street MK11 1JS. Amanda: 01908 259914; For 0 - 5s, £4.25 per child (drop in).

Limited spaces, first come first served

Tiffield

Little Turtle Swim Company

10:45-16:15T at Gateway School, St. Johns Rd NN12 8AA. Zara: 01908 543384; For 0 - 5s, £10 per class (book by 6-week term). 30-min swim sessions for children 2 mths+

Stony Stratford Water Babies

10:30-15:15T at Watling Way Centre, Galley Hill MK11 1PA. 01295 709221; For 0 - 4s, £13 per class (book by 10-week term). Fun, action packed, progressive swim classes

Tiffield

Active Baby Company Swimming

08:30-13:00T at Gateway School, St. Johns Rd NN12 8AB. Denise: 01604 826066; For 0 - 5s, £9 per class (book by 6-week term).

Swimming classes for 8/10 weeks old - 5 yrs

Towcester

ASA Swimming Lessons: 08:00-10:00T;

For 3 - 5s, (book by 6-week term).

Mighty Atoms: 09:15-10:15T; For 0 - 5s, £2.90 per child (drop in). Soft play sessions. at Towcester Centre for Leisure, Springfields NN12 6UW. 01327 322480

Daily Activity Planner: Daventry Area Your local ‘What’s on Guide’ for bumps - 5s and parents

Monday Braunston

Little Fishes Toddler Group

14:00-15:00T at All Saints Church, 71 High Street NN11 7HS. Sarah: 01788 890298; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Action songs & crafts

Crick

Stay and Play

09:30-12:15TH at The Saxon Suite, Daventry Leisure Centre NN11 4FP. Naomi: 07779 785 166; For 0 - 5s, £5 per class (please book).

Structured play for kids 6 mths+. Free taster

Yoga for Pregnancy

18:15-19:45TH at Long Buckby Community Centre, NN6 7QB. 01327 844 955 or 07950 573719; For bump, £7. Physical & emotional pregnancy support

Scaldwell

Crick Tots

10:30-12:00T at Crick Village Hall; For 0 - 5s, £2 per family (drop in). Fun activities & snack

Daventry

Adventure World Soft Play

09:30-17:30TH at Daventry Leisure Centre, Lodge Road NN11 4FP. 01327 871144; 0 - 8s, £1.75 per child (drop in). Soft play

Acorn Parent & Toddler Group

09:30-11:00T at United Reformed Church, Foundry Place NN11 4AA. Rosemary: 01327 872650; 0 - 5s, £1 (drop in). Stories & singing

Scaldwell Parents and Tots

10:00-12:00T at Scaldwell Village Hall, School Lane NN6 9LD. Kathryn: 01604 882786; For 0 - 4s, £1.50 per family (drop in). Friendly group.

Upper Boddington

Love Ballet Dance Company

09:30-11:15TH at Upper Boddington Village Hall, Warwick Road NN11 6DH. Lorraine: 07711 010404; For 2 - 5s, (please book).

Dance, Gymnastics & Theatre classes for 2yrs+

Love Ballet Dance Company Classes

16:00-21:15TH at Nene Hall, Tamar Square NN11 4RB. Lorraine: 07711 010404; For 3 - 5s, £3 per child (please book). Ballet, Tap, Street Dance, Drama & Gymnastics

Fawsley

Lazy Daisy Birth Preparation Class

19:30-20:45TH at Fawsley Hall, NN11 3BA. 07590 928944; For bump, (please book).

Antenatal classes preparing you for birth

Kilsby

Kilsby Playtime

09:45-11:45T at Kilsby Village Hall, Rugby Road CV23 8XX. 07845 751449 or 01788 823079; For 0 - 5s, £1.50 + 50p per extra child (drop in).

Long Buckby

Long Buckby Mums & Tots

09:30-11:30T at Long Buckby Community Centre, 41 Station Rd NN6 7QB. 01327 844753; For 0 - 4s, (drop in).

In the Water

Tumble Tots

14:00-15:30TH at Long Buckby Children’s Centre, 41 Station Road NN6 7QB. 01327 701604 ; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Tuesday Braunston Toddler Group

13:30-15:00T at Braunston Village Hall, Braunston NN11. ; For 0 - 4s, £1.50 per family.

Brixworth

14:00-15:30TH at Brixworth Centre (next to Children’s Centre), Church Street NN6 9BZ. 01604 880246; For 0s, FREE (drop in). 2nd and 4th Tues. Stay & Play for babies

Daventry

09:30-17:30TH at Daventry Leisure Centre, Lodge Road NN11 4FP. 01327 871144; For 0 - 5s, £1.75 per child (drop in). Indoor soft play for up to 8 yrs

Physical Fun

Antenatal Session: 10:00-11:30TH; Stay ‘n’ Play: 12:45-14:45TH; For 0 - 5s at Daventry Children’s Centre, 14 Benbow Close NN11 4JP. 01327 313861, FREE (drop in).

Toddle Time: 10:00-10:30T; For 1 - 5s.

Songs & rhymes for walkers Bounce and Rhyme: 10:15-10:45T; For 0 1s, Rhymes & songs for non-walkers at Daventry Library, North Street NN11 4GH. 01327 703130. FREE (drop in). Fortnightly Toddlers Group

13:30-14:45T at Holy Cross Church, Church Walk NN11. Paula: 01327 877979; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). 2nd Tues of month.

16:00-21:00TH at Nene Hall, Tamar Square NN11 4RB. Lorraine: 07711 010404; For 3 - 5s, £3 per child (please book). Ballet, Tap, Street Dance, Drama & Gymnastics

Long Buckby

Sparkles Additional Needs Group

Baby Buddies

Music & Signing

09:45-11:15T at Middlemore Farm Pub, Hidcote Way NN11 5JZ. Kiran: 07714767867; For bump - 3s, £1 (donation). Snacks & crafts.

Love Ballet Dance Company Classes

Braunston

Adventure World Soft Play

Middlemore Mums & Tots (NCT)

09:30-11:30TH at Long Buckby Children’s Centre, 41 Station Road NN6 7QB. 01327 701604 ; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Additional needs group. 1st & 3rd Tues of mth.

Long Buckby Mums & Babies Group

10:30-12:00TH at Baptist Church, Market Pl NN6. Jane: 01327 843453; 0 - 4s, FREE.

Long Buckby Baby Clinic

14:00-15:30TH at Long Buckby Sure Start Childrens Centre, Community Centre NN6 7QB. 01327 701604; For 0 - 1s, FREE (drop in).

2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month

Arts & Crafts

For Pregnancy 51

Daily Activity Planner

Saturday Brackley

South Northants & Daventry Area Harpole

= Advertiser has special offer voucher in our centre pages

Daily Activity Planner

Daventry Area Naseby

Brixworth & Villages NCT Group

10:00-12:00T at Naseby Methodist Church, Gynwell NN6 6DB. Katie: 07973 884717; For 0 - 4s, £1.50 per family (drop in). All welcome!

Thursday

Looking for a

fantastic

Upper Boddington

Boddington Toddler Group

09:30-11:30T at Boddington Village Hall, Boddington; For 0 - 5s, .

Woodford Halse

New Babes Group: 10:30-

12:30TH

Toddles Group: 14:00-16:00TH;

For 1 - 2s at Woodford Halse Children’s Centre, Scrivens Hill NN11 3SU. 01327 264809, FREE (drop in).

Woodford Halse Rhymetime

14:30-15:00T at Woodford Halse Library, Village Hall NN11 3RL. 0300 126 1000; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Wednesday Badby

Badby Mums & Tots

09:30-11:30T at Badby Village Hall, The Green NN11 3AF; For 0 - 4s, (drop in).

Brixworth

Brixworth

nursery?

Olive Shoots

10:00-11:30T at Brixworth Library & Community Centre, Spratton Road NN6 9DS. Margaret: 01604 646300; For 0 3s, £1 per family (drop in).

Dolphin Day Nursery offer 15% OFF quality childcare for children First 3 months fees, Daventry see voucher in the Hot Tots Soft Play Group aged 3 months to 5 years. centre pages

• Breakfast & Out of School Club.

• Qualified and experience staff with Early Years Professionals and fully qualified playworker.

• Dedicated Baby Room, Sleep Room & Milk Kitchen.

• Captivating Sensory Room.

• Exciting Out of School and Holiday Club for children aged up to 11 years.

• Hot healthy and well balanced meals prepared on the premises.

• Discounts, Government funded places and work place vouchers accepted.

Dolphin Day Nursery is located opposite Falconers Hill Infant School, Ashby Road, Daventry, NN11 0QF. Tel: 01327 301600 Email: info@dolphindaynursery.com

Nature Tots

10:00-11:30T at Brixworth Country Park, Northampton Road NN6 9DG. 07703 160878; For 0 - 5s, £3 per child (please book). 3rd Wed of month. Outdoor tots group.

Daventry

Adventure World Soft Play

09:30-17:30TH at Daventry Leisure Centre, Lodge Road NN11 4FP. 01327 871144; For 0 5s, £1.75 per child (drop in). Indoor soft play for up to 8 yrs

Active Baby Company Swimming

www.dolphindaynursery.com Love Ballet Dance Company

16:45-18:30TH at Buckby Health and Leisure, 1 High Street NN6 7RE . Lorraine: 07711 010404; For 3 - 5s, £3 per child (book by term). Ballet, Gymnastics & Street Dance Classes

09:30-13:00TH at Daventry Leisure Centre, Lodge Road NN11 4FP. 01327 871144; For 0 - 5s, £2.90. Soft play fun.

Call to check open

Adventure World Soft Play

13:00-17:30TH at Daventry Leisure Centre, Lodge Road NN11 4FP. 01327 871144; For 0 - 8s, £1.75 per child (drop in). Soft play

Musical Monkeys

13:00-14:00TH at Tiny Tantrums Play Centre, Riley Close NN11 8QT. 07917 683330 ; For 0 - 5s, £3.75 per child (drop in). 4.75 per family.

Entertainment show & cake!

Breastfeeding & Biscuits

19:30-20:30T at Daventry Sure Start Centre, 14 Benbow Close NN11 4JP. 01327 313861; For 0 - 2s, FREE. Last Thurs of month

East Haddon

East Haddon Toddler Group

10:00-11:30T at The Pavilion, East Haddon Playing Fields, (turning opposite The Red Lion Pub) NN6 8BU. Melissa: 01604 770024; For 0 - 5s, £1.50 per family (drop in). Diff activity every week & great play area

Great Brington

Bringtons’ Mums & tots

Upper Boddington

10:00-11:30TH at The Reading Rooms, Main Street NN7 4JB. Chrissie: 07984 444556; For 0 - 4s, £2. Friendly group, open all year.

Dance, Gymnastics & Drama Classes:

Parent & Tots Group

Boogie & Bounce Classes: 13:30-14:30T; For 1 - 5s, (please book). Dance & movement classes for children 18mths+

Kelmarsh

09:45-12:15T at Bodysense Health & Leisure, Barcelo Daventry Hotel (Formally the Paramount) NN11 0SG. Denise: 01604 826066; For 0 - 4s, £9 per class (book by 6-week term).

Swimming classes for 8/10 weeks old - 5 yrs

17:15-18:15TH; For 2 - 5s, (book). Dance, Gymnastics & Theatre classes for 2yrs+ with Love Ballet Dance Company at Upper Boddington Village Hall, Warwick Road NN11 6DH. Lorraine: 07711 010404

12:00-14:00T at Nagarjuna Centre Cafe, The Old Rectory NN6 9LZ. Sarah: 01604 686778; For 0 - 5s, . Free drink with every panini order!

Young Parents Group

Weedon

Guilsborough

09:45-10:30T at Weedon Village Hall, West Street NN7 4PQ. Amanda: 01908 259914; For 0 - 5s, £4.25 per session (please book). Free trial offer voucher in centre pages

14:00-15:00TH at Starts from Long Buckby Children’s Centre, 41 Station Rd NN6 7QB. 01327 701604; For 1 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

13:30-15:00TH at Daventry East Children’s Centre, The Abbey Centre NN11 4XG. 01327 313861; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). For parents under 21 years

Guilsborough Breastfeeding Drop In

11:00-13:00T at Guilsborough Surgery, High Street NN6 8QE. 01604 740210; For 0 - 2s, FREE (drop in).

Kilsby

Kilsby Health Visitor Clinic

09:30-11:30TH at Run by Long Buckby Children’s Centre, Kilsby Clinic CV23 8XG. 01327 701604; For 0 - 2s, FREE (drop in). 1st Wed of month

Long Buckby

Bromford Support

14:30-16:30TH at Long Buckby Children’s Centre, 41 Station Rd NN6 7QB. 01327 701604; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Last Wednesday of every month

Musical Minis

West Haddon

Caterpillar Club

09:15-11:15T at West Haddon Village Hall, The Green NN6 7AN. Sarah: 01788 510075; For 0 - 4s, £1.50 per child. Weekly craft corner and singing circle.

Woodford Halse

Baby Massage & Breastfeeding: 10:0010:30TH; For 0s, FREE (drop in). For babies from 6 weeks to 9 months Mini Musical Beats: 10:45-11:45TH; For 0 - 5s, FREE (please book) at Woodford Halse Children’s Centre, Scrivens Hill NN11 3SU. 01327 264809.

Long Buckby

Walking Buddies

Moulton

Baby Buddies

14:00-15:30TH at Brixworth Children’s Centre at Moulton Village Hall, . 01604 880246; For 0s, FREE (drop in). 2nd and 4th Thurs. Stay & Play for babies

Staverton

Staverton Mums & Tots

10:30-12:00T at Staverton Village Hall, Croft Lane NN11 6JE; For 0 - 4s.

Welton

Welton Toddler Group

09:45-11:15T at Welton Village Hall, NN11.

Lee: 07977 191054; For 0 - 4s, £1.50 (drop in).

With themed ride on area

52 We update these listings every issue, but recommend you call before attending - just in case.

T = Term Time H = Holidays

Daventry Area

Daily Activity Planner

Friday

Long Buckby

Brixworth

Brixworth Rhymetime

09:45-11:00T at Brixworth Library, Spratton Rd NN6 9DS. 0300 126 1000; For 0 - 5s, FREE.

Stay and Play

10:30-12:00TH at Brixworth Children’s Centre at the Community Centre, Church St NN6 9BZ. 01604 880246; For 0 - 5s, FREE. Every Friday

Daventry

Adventure World Soft Play

09:00-17:30TH at Daventry Leisure Centre, Lodge Road NN11 4FP. 01327 871144; For 0 8s, £1.75 per child (drop in). Soft play

Timken Tots

10:00-12:00TH at Run by Daventry NCT, Mayfield Park Sports Club NN11 9FZ. 07715 558185; For 0 - 5s, £1 per family (donation).

Run by NCT - non-members welcome!

12:30-14:00TH at Daventry East Sure Start Children’s Centre, 14 Benbow Close NN11 4JP. 01327 313861; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Love Ballet Dance Company Classes

17:00-19:15TH at Nene Hall, Tamar Square NN11 4RB. Lorraine: 07711 010404; For 3 - 5s, £3 per child (please book). Ballet, Tap, Street Dance, Drama & Gymnastics

Dodford

10:00-11:00TH at Dodford Village Hall, Dodford NN7 4SY. 07917 683330; For 0 - 5s, £3.75 per child (drop in). £4.75 per family.

Entertainment show & cake!

In the Water

09:00-17:30TH at Daventry Leisure Centre, Lodge Road NN11 4FP. 01327 871144; For 0 5s, £1.75 per child (drop in). Indoor soft play for up to 8 yrs

14:00-15:30TH at Long Buckby Children’s Centre, 41 Station Rd NN6 7QB. 01327 701604; FREE. With breastfeeding support

Melody Bear Movement Classes

Long Buckby Library Rhymetime

14:30-15:00T at Long Buckby Library, Station Road NN6 7QB. 0300 126 1000; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Welford

09:30-10:00TH at Daventry Community Centre, Ashby Road NN11 9QD. Jodie: 07711683077; For 2 - 4s, . Helps children learn confidence and rhythm

Dads’ Play Session

Welford Babes & Tots Group

09:30-11:00TH at Welford Mums & Tots, Welford Community Centre NN6. 07981 197855 or 07787 855289; For 0 - 5s, £2 per child (drop in). 1st session free. 50p per sibling.

10:00-11:30TH at Daventry Children’s Centre at Tiny Tantrums, 1 Riley Close NN11 8QT. 01327 313861; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in). Held monthly - call for dates

Family Morning with H/V

11:30-12:30TH at Caseys Bar, Market Square NN11 4BH. 07917 683330 ; For 0 - 5s, £3.75 per child (drop in). 4.75 per family. Every 1st & 3rd Saturday.

Woodford Halse

09:00-11:30TH at Woodford Halse Children’s Centre, Scrivens Hill NN11 3SU. 01327 264809; For 0 - 5s, FREE (drop in).

Saturday

Health Visitor Clinic

Musical Monkeys

Adventure World Soft Play

Baby Buddies Drop in

Musical Monkeys

Upper Boddington

Love Ballet Dance Company Classes

Dads Fun Session

09:00-17:00TH at Upper Boddington Village Hall, Warwick Road NN11 6DH. Lorraine: 07711 010404; For 2 - 5s, (please book).

Dance, Gymnastics & Theatre classes for 2yrs+

Daventry

Daventry

Brixworth

10:30-12:00T at Brixworth Childrens Centre, The Old School NN6 9BZ. 01604 880246; For 0 - 5s, FREE. Last Sat of month but ring to check

Little Kickers

09:00-12:30TH at Little Kickers, Daventry Leisure Centre NN11 4FP. Lynne: 01788 899102; For 1 - 5s, (please book). Fun football classes from 18 mths+

Music & Signing

Physical Fun

Sunday

Adventure World Soft Play

09:00-17:30TH at Daventry Leisure Centre, Lodge Road NN11 4FP. 01327 871144; For 0 8s, £1.75 per child (drop in). Soft play

Arts & Crafts

For Pregnancy 53

The About Directory Directory Toddle

Toddle About directory Find what you need. Quickly.

Business Opportunities Business Mums 35 Phoenix Trading 35 The Pampered Chef 34 Usborne Books 35 Days Out Angelina Ballerina Show Baby Expo MK Berzerk Brackley Baby Fayre DeafConnect Events Hullabaloo Rugrats & Half Pints Stoke Bruerne Canal Museum

8 9 7 8 21 7 7 8

Family Finance Grey 2 Blue

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Gifts and Products

15 Cushi Tush Baby Seat 16 Dinky Dayz 12 ELC / Mothercare 12 HappyHappyHappy Name Labels 15 Gracious Souls 15 KNR Jewellery 33 Shirelings Toyshop 12 The Boomerein 15 Toddle Off 12 Cloggies Toyshop

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Groups and Classes

39 Aqualight Babies 45 Brackley Children’s Centre 48 Club Futsal 38 GymBugs 45 Krystle Jayne’s Dance Academy 40 Little Kickers 40 & 53 LoveBallet Dance Academy 53 Music Bugs 39 Musical Minis 49 Musical Monkeys 50 Open Stage Drama & Dance 43 Melody Bear Dance Classes 50 Sing & Sign 47 Tatty Bumpkin 47 The Kids Kitchen 43 The Little Turtle Swim Company 49 Tumble Tots 38 Water Babies 36 Yoga Tigers 43 Active Baby Company

Health and Beauty Natural Coaching The Salt Cave The Style Lounge

41 27 21

Home Help Domestique ChemDry Renew

18 55

Nurseries & Childcare Akeley Wood School & Nursery 11

Deanshanger Playgroup Dolphin Day Nursery F&J’s Childminding Services Head Start Day Nursery Hedgehog Hill Nursery Little Houghton Day Nursery Nene Valley Day Nursery Northampton High School Robin’s Nest Day Nursery

48 52 48 2 48 43 56 44 47

Parties and Entertainers

23 22 Lovely Children’s Entertainer 23 Miss Tickle Magic 23 Sarah Jane’s Bouncy Castles 23 Scrummy Little Cupcakes 23 TC Wedding Creches & Parties 23 Discomania Junior

Fun 4 Hire Bouncy Castles

Photographers Andy Nickerson Photography Coco Latte Photography James Thorpe Photography Kasia Zaluska Photography Mark Betts Photography Nick Kelly Photography PixiFoto

21 21 18 18 33 18 32

Pregnancy Daisy Birthing Mummies Birth Buddy PlaYoga Hypnobirthing Sandy Yoga Yoga for Pregnancy

54 Check centre pages for special offers - you’ll find offers from most of our advertisers!

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www.

.co.uk

“Delivering high quality care to your child!”

Open 52 weeks a year Ages 6 weeks – 5 years Stimulating, warm environments Child led activities Large award winning garden Open to NHS and non-NHS children Private car park

Open Week

Mon 7th July - Fri 13th July 10am - 3pm Wed 11th July 10am - 7.30pm Nene Valley Day Nursery General Hospital Complex In the corner of car park 2 Cliftonville Northampton NN1 5HL

01604 628444

Free Registration Quote NV101 Come and see us today!

www.childbasepartnership.com 56 The icon tells you which advertisers have a voucher in the centre pages