Two Point Four magazine, issue 6, autumn/winter 2015/16

ISSUE SIX AUTUMN/WINTER 2015/16

Santa’s shopping list Our pick of festive must haves

DOWN IN THE DUMPS?

Simple tricks to keeping the blues at bay

Make magical memories 360 Play WIN!

CREATE WONDERFUL WINTER TRADITIONS

LOCAL • FAMILY • LIFESTYLE

annual passes

r e v te ther a wh wea the TM

fun

lay p li y m e n o a F ll-in A

e

pric

No time limits play all day

free park ing

www.360play.co.uk MILTON KEYNES Knowlhill

MK5 8HL

01908 308360

STEVENAGE Stevenage Leisure Park

SG1 2UA

01438 365744

LEICESTER

Meridian Leisure Park

LE19 1JZ

01162 894731

CONTENTS ISSUE SIX AUTUMN /WINTER 2015

Editor’s welcome

A cheery “hi” from us to you . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Santa’s shopping list Our pick of festive must

haves

DOWN IN THE DUMPS?

g Simple tricks to keepin the blues at bay

Make magical orieTIONSs memWINTE 360 Playses R TRADI WIN!

CREATE WONDERFUL

annual pas

• LIFEST YLE LOC AL • FAMILY

News and reviews

Everything we think you’d like to know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

twopointfourmagazine.co.uk Two Point Four is a bimonthly magazine devoted entirely to family life, available freely in print and online. With highquality original features aimed at parents, carers and guardians of all pre-school and school-age children, it has a distinctly local focus and is a magazine to read, share and keep. Two Point Four covers essential topics including children’s interests, activities, education and health, and lifestyle interests for parents.

If your pre-school, nursery, school or business would like to receive free copies of each issue to distribute to parents and carers or to make available to your customers, please contact us using the details below.

The low-down on the latest must haves:

Home

Comfy cosy winter wonders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Grown-ups

Stay classically cool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Little ones

Wonderful warming winter clobber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Christmas

A stocking full of festive treats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Published by Full Stop Communications Ltd Contact: 01455 273281 For editorial queries, email: editorial@twopointfourmagazine.co.uk For advertising queries, email: advertising@twopointfourmagazine.co.uk

On the twelfth day of Christmas, my children said to me … “I’m bored!”

Our round-up of ways to keep the kids active and make magical memories this winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Designed by Come Hither Design

© Full Stop Communications Ltd 2015. All rights reserved.

No part of this magazine may be used or reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. Full Stop Communications Limited (company number 9185239) is registered in England and Wales. All content in this magazine is for information only and was correct at the time of going to press, as far as we are aware. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or inaccuracies herein and readers are advised to contact the advertisers with regard to the pricing and availability of any products or services they offer in this magazine. If you submit unsolicited material to the magazine you grant Full Stop Communications a licence to publish your submissions, if we choose to do so, in whole or in part in all editions of the magazine, including any other future versions, in any print and digital format. Any material you submit for publication is at your risk and although we will take every care, neither Full Stop Communications, its employees, subcontractors or agents shall by liable for any loss or damage.

Banish those winter blues

Maximise your mood this season – our energy boosting guide to a brighter winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Win!

A year’s worth of fun at 360 Play! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

It’s no fuss by bus... £3.50 Park & Ride Group Ticket* Under fives travel free

Park & Ride to Leicester every 12 to 15 mins from

Meynell’s Gorse • Enderby • Birstall Monday to Saturday, 7am to 7pm *Terms and conditions apply

4

www.quicksilverbus.co.uk • 0116 305 0002

WELL, HELLO

Hello and welcome to the latest issue of Two Point Four magazine

In the past couple of months, we’ve been:

Now that summer seems like a distant memory, it’s time to embrace all things warm and wintery. And, along with Halloween and Bonfire Night, that means the magic and mayhem of the approach to Christmas. And, regardless of how festive you’re feeling, we have a little something for everyone in our must-have selections for the home, the little ones and the grown ups (see pages 13–19).

In this issue, we look at some winter activities, treats and days out which would help you to create some amazing memories with your family. From make-your-own decorations to travelling the Polar Express to pantos, ice-skating to ice-cream, there’s something for everyone, close by or further afield.

Winter, with its darker nights and lack of sunshine, can lead to a drop in mood as well as a drop in temperature. Spending less time outside and fewer daytime hours can lead you to feel decidedly down in the dumps, so check out our at-a-glance guide to brightening the whole family’s mood.

Hopefully you can grab some time this issue to settle down with a cuppa and, as always, we’d love to hear from you if you have any suggestions for subjects and places we should be covering in future issues.

Until then, we wish you a wonderful winter and, if it’s not too early, a very merry Christmas!

avid Stephenie and D editor@twopointfourmagazine.co.uk T: 01455 273281

facebook.com/twopointfourmagazine Web: twopointfourmagazine.co.uk

ENJOYING: We’re determined to stay fit and healthy this winter so we’re hitting the gym, taking the children swimming and getting out for wintery walks when we can. With an overflowing fruit bowl and a back-up supply of Vicks First Defence, we’re hoping to stay as cold free as possible!

WATCHING: Us grown ups are still hooked on House of Cards while Blaze and the Monster Machines is a huge hit with the little ones.

EATING: We recently spent a wonderful child-free evening celebrating with friends at Turpins in Twycross. Utterly delicious food and ridiculously moreish cocktails.

VISITING: After less-than-glorious weather this summer, we topped up our vitamin D during October half term with a trip to Malta.

We enjoyed a blissful week at the DB Seabank Hotel and Spa which gets the thumbs up for being oh-so family friendly.

5

Em’s Domestic Services Let us take care of the cleaning leaving you free to spend time with the kids, meet up with friends or just relax.

We cover all of Leicestershire, offering a first-class tailored service to customers regardless of whether you want a one-off spring clean or a weekly clean.

07840 942492

emsdomesticservices@gmail.com emsdomesticservices.co.uk Call, text or email for a quote today FULLY INSURED ❉ SECURE KEY HOLDING COMPETITIVE RATES ❉ UNIFORMED STAFF

吀㨀 ㄀㄀㘀 ㌀㄀㤀 㘀 㘀 6

䘀爀漀洀 ㄀猀琀 眀愀氀欀攀爀猀 琀漀 琀攀攀渀猀 䴀攀愀猀甀爀椀渀最 ☀ 琀琀椀渀最 猀攀爀瘀椀挀攀 一攀愀爀戀礀 瀀愀爀欀椀渀最

NEWS & REVIEWS

Streamline

THOSE SCHEDULES For busy families, it can be nigh on impossible to stay on top of every activity, birthday party, school date and social event. So, thank the Lord for Mum’s Diary, a fabulous grid-based diary which makes scheduling family life a doddle.

And the clever bods at Mum’s Office have even provided free-to-download templates, just to make your life easier once you’ve registered on the website.

Check out their website, or better than that, buy one of the diaries, you won’t regret it. mumsoffice.co.uk

C hri stm a s Cu t ie s

We don’t know about you, but we can’t resist this gorgeous festive glittery T-shirt. Personalised with your little one’s name, this is a sure-fire way to inject some festive spirit.

T-shirt from £19.99 plus postage, etsy.com/uk/shop/ BabyEllieHarriet

All work and no play Did you know that play is not only fun for children but also essential for the development of their brain? Without it, the physical size of the brain will be much smaller and chemicals such as opoids and oxytocin would not be released. These chemicals calm the amygdala and repair the hippocampus. Put simply, playing is essential for a child’s health and wellbeing.

But, for some children, it means far more. For children who are struggling, for a variety of reasons such as abuse, bullying, bereavement or anxiety, play therapy can be life changing. Providing a safe environment where the child can communicate and play allows a

The

W WOfactor

When it comes to buying jewellery for Christmas, it pays to know what you’re looking for. We asked local experts Workshop Jewellery in Burbage for their suggestions for glorious gifts.

“If you’re buying jewellery, make sure you buy something that will last,” said Caroline. “Our fashion range is made from sterling silver which will stand the test of time. After all, jewellery is for life, not just for Christmas!”

WORKSHOP JEWELLERY’S TOP TRIO ARE: Stand out from the crowd with a sensational showstopper, such as this sterling silver and Swarovski crystal halo ring, £116.

child to start healing themselves.

If you would like to know more about play therapy, or would like to become a play therapist, visit: playtherapy.org.uk and playtherapyregister.org.uk

REMEMBER , REMEMBER

No, not the fifth of November, but if your little ones are due to sta rt school in September, the deadline for Leicestershire scho ol admissions is 15 JANUAR Y 2016.

Parents will find ou t the results on 18 Apr il 2016.

Our high quality Danish Design watches are the perfect gift and are available in a variety of durable, stylish designs.

Or, make it really personal by commissioning a unique item in silver, gold or platinum. Whatever your budget and whatever their style, this way it’s guaranteed to suit them beautifully.

7

Is your child aged 5-14?

Find out how they can benefit from Explore Learning today! Visit our

Maths & English tuition centres Why choose Explore for your child?

• Courses mapped to the National Curriculum.

• Adapts to the individual needs of your child.

• Ofsted registered so you can use Childcare Vouchers to pay for membership.

• Convenient for families - open 7 days a week.

• An environment that children enjoy learning in.

Free trial session - book today!

Visit your nearest centre in Leicester to find out how your family can benefit.

Leicester High Cross

0116 216 0667

Leicester Fosse Park

0116 282 6800

Explore Learning has over 90 centres nationwide. A full list of centres can be found on our website or by calling 01483 447410.

www.explorelearning.co.uk

NEWS & REVIEWS

GRANDPARENTS & GRANDCHILDREN When family relationships are less than harmonious, Lisa Mohar from Bray and Bray offers this advice

Q

I want to see my grandchildren but the parent(s) won’t let me? What can I do?

In these circumstances you have the following options to try to arrange to see your grandchildren:

• Try to reach an agreement with the parent(s) directly in person or by writing to them • Speak to a family law solicitor who can provide you with advice and write to the parent(s) to attempt to reach an agreement • Attend mediation with the parent(s) • If an agreement cannot be reached either directly via solicitors or at mediation then the only option remaining would be to make an application to Court for a Child Arrangements Order to spend time with your grandchildren.

• When deciding whether an Order should be made, the Court will consider: – The ascertainable wishes and feelings of the child concerned (considered in the light of the child’s age and understanding) – The child’s physical, emotional and educational needs – The likely effect on the child of any change in his/her circumstances – Any harm which a child had suffered or is at risk of suffering

– The child’s age, sex, background and any other characteristic which the Court considers relevant – How capable each of the child’s parents, and any other person in relation to whom the Court considers the question to be relevant, is of meeting the child’s needs – The range of powers available to the Court under the Children Act under the proceedings in question.

If you have any questions regarding access to see your children or grandchildren, contact our specialist family law department on 01455 639 900 for a free telephone conversation.

Alternatively, you can contact me directly via email at lmmohar@braybray.co.uk and arrange a fixed-fee appointment to talk through all of your questions.

Bray & Bray Solicitors has representatives of the family law team based at each of its offices in Leicester, Hinckley and Market Harborough who will each be able to help with specialist children and grandchildren access issues.

For further information, client interviews and more advice, visit braybray.co.uk

On the move?

When you’re a family, moving house can be the challenge. We caught up with local estate agents Nest to find out their top tips for getting the best price for your pad Putting your home on the market can be incredibly nerve racking but getting the desired result is all in the preparation. Taking some time to ensure that your property is shown in the best light can not only make it more saleable but add value too. The team at Nest have suggested these simple suggestions for sales success:

CURB APPEAL

Make a fantastic first impression. Mow the lawn, weed any borders and sweep or pressure wash the driveway. Clean the windows and the doors, or, if you have a wooden front door, give it a fresh coat of paint. Adding some tubs or plants outside can give it instant curb appeal.

MAKE IT SPARKLE

Remember that potential buyers may well peep inside cupboards and storage units, so be sure to tidy those while cleaning the rest of the house. Don’t forget the insides of windows, light fittings and skirting boards. In kitchens and bathrooms, polish taps and bleach any discoloured grout, making sure both rooms smell fresh.

DECLUTTER

Stand back and ask yourself if your living rooms convey a feeling of space or are cluttered with belongings. Do you want to take them all to your new home? If not, it’s time to tackle the clutter but do it with care as people will buy into the positive elements of your lifestyle so don’t leave rooms looking completely impersonal. Pay particular attention to books, CDs and DVDs, ornaments, posters, pictures and photographs. Clear kitchen worktops as much as possible.

LIGHTEN UP

If your property lacks natural light, try creating your own.

Wall mirrors can make rooms look both bigger and lighter, especially in smaller areas such as hallways. Ensure all bulbs work and place lamps in dark corners. Remove any dark or bulky curtains that limit natural light and cut back any trees or hedges outside that may obstruct windows.

THE DETAILS

Think about a fresh lick of paint if walls are scuffed or marked. Replace old or worn bedding, bath mats and shower curtains and repair any cracks in walls, fix leaky taps and any broken doors or cupboards. And, as odours can make or break a property viewing, use the oldest trick in the book by creating homely inviting smells. Open windows and air your home before viewings. While baking bread and brewing coffee are tried-and-tested favourites, gentle scents such as reed diffusers are a great alternative.

If you would like further advice or a valuation, please call the Nest head office on 0116 277 2277.

9

PARENTING

’Twas the night before Christmas

There are few things nicer than curling up with a hot chocolate, a blanket and a Christmas book to get in the festive mood… other than adding a cookie or two.

Here are our suggestions for three of the best festive reads for you and your little ones this year CHRISTMAS STORIES

BY MICHAEL MORPURGO

£14.99 Aimed at 5+ years This gorgeous collection of five touching Christmas stories is perfect to become a Christmas tradition, curling up beside the fire with your little ones. One of the stories, Mimi and the Mountain Dragon, has been adapted for the BBC for Christmas next year. It’s the perfect antithesis to all the princess propaganda that threatens to override our daughters’ natural curiosity and daring natures.

NUMBER DAY = FUN On 5 February 2016, school children across the UK will be taking part in Number Day for the NSPCC. Celebrated in schools across the UK, Number Day makes maths fun with activities such as Who Wants to be a Mathionnaire? and Be the Boss while raising essential funds for the NSPCC. Pupils can come to school wearing their favourite football shirt as part of Dress Up for Digits – any item of clothing with a number on it will do.

Encourage your school to sign up and help the NSPCC continue to fight for every childhood through services such as ChildLine – the UK’s free, confidential 24-hour helpline and online service for children and young people.

Teachers, register your school at www.nspcc.org.uk/numberday and you’ll be sent a link to curriculum-based maths resources which will be available to download in November.

Get festive at Highcross

Get festive at Highcross This Christmas head to Highcross THE LITTLE CHRISTMAS TREE

BY CORINA FLETCHER AND VICKI GAUSDEN

£14.99 Aimed at 3+ years The children have decorated all the trees in Emerald Wood for Christmas but one little tree has been forgotten. Can the animals make the tree look beautiful before Christmas morning dawns? Once you’ve read the story, little ones can tie back the ribbon and create their own beautiful pop-up tree. A lovely festive activity for cold, gloomy days.

POP-OUT AND PLAY NATIVITY STORY

BY HOLLY STERLING

£7.99 Aimed at 3+ years This adorable book offers double the fun as you can read the traditional nativity story, then create an interactive nativity scene that little ones can happily play with for hours. The ideal way to introduce younger children to the story of Nativity.

10

for fun for all the family.

For those planning a festive night out, St Peter’s Square offers a range of restaurants to suit all tastebuds. Want to avoid roast turkey? No problem, just head to Coast to Coast for ham hock cake or Frankie and Benny’s for maple-flavoured glazed gammon.

Films fans are in for a treat at Showcase Cinema de Lux as Star Wars returns with The Force Awakens on 18 December. For the little ones, Snoopy and Charlie Brown make their big screen debut with The Peanuts Movie.

And of course, Christmas wouldn’t be complete without the chance to meet Santa. He’ll be appearing in his magical snowglobe from 16 November. There’s also our free interactive gaming pod outside The Disney Store.

Pick up a copy of Browse Magazine for the latest festive gift guide and for more events and offers, download the free Highcross PLUS app or visit highcrossleicester.com

NOW OPEN ALL DAY SUNDAY

TUESDAY NIGHT IS

Comfort Food Night 2 COURSES £13.95 · 3 COURSES £16.95

Wholesome, homecooked pub classics using beautiful ingredients and generously served.

Open from 12pm EVERYDAY To book a table call 01455 699336 Main Street Sutton Cheney Leicestershire CV13 0AG England info@herculesrevived.co.uk herculesrevived.co.uk

Help children with emotional, behaviour and mental health issues

By Using Play Therapy The one stop shop for sweets We found sweets heaven deep in Broughton Astley!

Go to Nelly B in Main Street for a big surprise in the range of sweets and their wonderful presentation.

A complete range of party bags to suit all pockets and perfect for every occasion.

Check us out on facebook.com/pages/Nelly-Bs-Sweet-Shop/ 70a Main Street, Broughton Astley LE9 6RD Tel: 01455 286927 Mobile: 07836 618417 e-mail: info@totally-serene.co.uk www.totally-serene.co.uk

Do you know, a child who:

 Finds it difficult to concentrate or learn? Career opportunities.  Can’t control anger?

There are currently over  Has suffered trauma?

800 Play Therapy UK registered play therapy practi Has suffered neglect or abuse? tioners in the UK However,  Has autistic tendencies? an estimated 22,000 thera Suffers from anxiety or stress? pists are needed to work  Suffers from bereavement? with children between the ages of 4 and 12.  Is adopted or fostered?  Is continually unhappy?

Penny Milne  Is bullied?

Play Therapy UK The Coach

Find out how you could help by attending a oneday introductory course.

House, Belmont Rd, Uckfield TN22 1BU Phone: 01825 761143 Email: mokijep@aol.com Web: www.playtherapy.org.uk & www.playtherapyregister.org.uk

11

ISSUE SIX AUTUMN/W INTER 2015

n i e s i t r e v Ad

Santa’s shopping listhaves Our pick of festive must

Find out how you can advertise your business or service to many thousands of families across the region in Leicestershire and Rutland’s premier free magazine for families: Visit twopointfourmagazine.co.uk/advertise for further details and to download our media pack.

Call us on 01455 273281 to discuss, or email advertising@twopointfourmagazine.co.uk Prices start from just £85 excluding VAT. For a small additional fee our design team can create your ad for you.

Save when you book three- or six-advert packages of any size.

Prices include both the printed and digital versions of the magazine

WHAT OUR READERS SAY …

“ Looks fantastic and full of really interesting articles” ‘Love the new magazine!’

“Love it!” “ Great presentation and content, love reading it!”

“Just what the area needs, thanks!”

“ Super magazine, full of great articles and ideas”

DOWN IN THE DUMPS?g Simple tricks to keepin the blues at bay

Make magical orieIONSs memWINTER 360 Playses TRADIT WIN!

ISSUE FIVE JULY/AUG UST 2015

CREATE WONDERFUL

annual pas

Leicestershire and Rutland

• LIFESTYLE LOC AL • FAMILY

Switch off & recharge

Why doing nothing is good for all the family

WAR AND PEACE

Sort out squabbling

sibblings

Beside the seaside

STAYING SAFE ON THE SAND

ISSUE FOUR MAY/JUNE 2015

WIN!

cornwall

Leicestershire and Rutland

LOC AL • FAMILY • LIFESTYLE

Love is all you need

Keep the spark burnin

family break

g bright

MAN OF THE MOMENT ’s Day Top tips for Father

Here comes SPA DAY the sun O WIN!

ISSUE THREE MARCH/A PRIL 2015

days Making the most of glorious summer

FOR TW

Leicestershire

• LIFESTYLE LOC AL • FAMILY

01/05/2015 15:33

1

Iss4-TPF-p01-aw.indd

Mum’s the word

Top tips for the perfect Mother ’s Day

SPRING INTO SPR ING

The freshest must haves for kids and grown ups

Get Cracking a year of WIN!

Our guide to getting out and about this

ISSUE TWO UARY 2015 DECEMBE R 2014/JAN

South Leicestershire

Easter

LOC AL • FAMILY • LIFESTYLE Iss3-complete-01.indb

days out!

1 27/02/2015 10:33

ta Dear San te The ultima Christmas list

SAFE & SAV VY Protect your children online

Easy Living 2015: your family’s best year yet

WIN!

South Leicestershire

• LIFESTYLE LOC AL • FAMILY

Iss2-TPF-p01-07.indd

26/11/2014 20:15

1

Give peace a chance

Is ‘me time’ a myth?

WIN!

spa day for two 2-poin-4-issue 01.indb

dinner for two

ISSUE ONE OCTOBER /NOVEMB ER 2014

Hooked on books Does your child read enough?

TIME OUT

Putting the fun into

school-free days

LOC AL • FAMILY • LIFESTYLE

1 02/10/2014 19:06

12

MUST HAVES: HOME

HOME SWEET HOME

As the nights draw in and we creep towards Christmas, make your home cosy and comfy and oh so stylish

Black matte star light, £95, BHS Gold birdcage, £26, Sainsbury’s

Sequin cushion, £15, Very Robin cushion, £16, M&Co House of Fraser

Framed print, £10, Tiger

Kitsch wreath, £20, Paperchase

Antler ceiling light, £110, Next Light-up baubles, £18.50, Cox and Cox

Traditional wreath, £12.99, Homebase

Christmas bed linen, £15, Next

Santa washing line, £15, Parkinson’s UK

Magical light-up deer head, £60, Cox and Cox

Printed storage boxes, £15, Matalan

Countdown to Christmas, £15, Debenhams

M&S

13

MUST HAVES: GROWN UPS

Keep it CLASSIC

After the vibrant colours of summer, cool things down this winter with shades of black, grey and silver

Dress, £100, Wallis

Sequin cami, £30, Next

Cape, £25, Very

Black drummer boy jacket, £20, Primark

Maxi dress, £249, Monsoon

Kenneth Cole shirt, Men’s boot, £65, House of Fraser £40, F&F Jumper, £35, H!

by Henry Holland, Debenhams

RJR cap, £30, Debenhams Bike print scarf, £27.50, White Stuff

RJR coat, £149, Debenhams

14

Harris tweed briefcase, £65, Next

Silver dress, £34.99, New Look

Silver shoes, £85, Dune

Silver sequin clutch bag, £15, Wallis

15

MUST HAVES: LITTLE ONES

Baby

it’s cold outside

As the temperatures plummet, keep the kids cosy with our round-up of the latest warm, woolly or just wonderful outfits

Dear Santa top, £2.50, George at Asda

Sequin front t-shirt, £13-17, BHS

Penguin light-up jumper, from £18, M&Co

Padded earmuffs, George at Asda

Blossom swing dress, £5, George at Asda

Shopper, £19, Accessorize Jeans, £8, M&Co

Embroidered skirt, from £13, Next A ssorted kids nightwear, Monsoon

Outfits, from £13, all from M&S Parka, £18, F&F

16

Finger people gloves, £5.50, Tu at Sainsbury’s

Nordic Grip non-slip ankle boots, £44.95, Cuckooland

Wooden playhouse with dormer Wellies, from £11, Penguin onesie, window, £649.95, Cuckooland £16-18, BHS Mothercare

nest estate

agents

Fresh Thinking...

Traditional Values.

Valuing properties and people Thinking of moving? Call Sara Quatermass or Robert Taylor for your free, no obligation property consultation Blaby Branch 1a Lutterworth Road Blaby, Leicester LE8 4DW

Enderby Branch 22a Cross Street Enderby, Leicester LE19 4NJ

Wigston Branch 76 Leicester Road Wigston, Leicester LE18 1DR

0116 277 2277

0116 286 9100

0116 281 1300

blaby@nestestataeagents.co.uk

enderby@nestestataeagents.co.uk

wigston@nestestateagents.co.uk

www.NestEstateAgents.co.uk 17

We wish you the

C h t s r e i i s tmas r r e m

Delight everyone, old and young, with the perfect presents, whatever your budget

Pug on a plug, £6, M&S

Personalised Christmas stocking, £13, Becky and Lolo

Elf Yourself Voice changer, £6, 50 Fifty Gifts Pass the parcel sprout, £6.99, Parkinson’s UK Dog goodie bag, £10, Next

DIY Gingerbread House kit, £35, Biscuiteers Baking

Chocolate wreath, £20, Hotel Chocolat

Personalised heart string, Hearts range from £2-5, ok) Lavender Blonde (on Facebo

18

Mommy Rules print, £19.95, RawXclusive, Not On The High Street

Light-up wooden house, £28, House of Fraser

Fish bowl, Hearts range from £7.95, Red5

MUST HAVES:PARENTING CHRISTMAS

Penguin Mini Buddy Speaker, £10, BHS Satchel, £16, Mothercare Paper aeroplanes, £2, M&S Gold star bag, £19.99, New Look

Secret Agent Secret Message Set, £9.95, Luckies of London

Friendship charm bracelet kit, £13, Great Gift Company

Make your own snowglobe, £25, Cox and Cox

Bicycle Bible, £9.95, Luckies of London

Elfie Selfie photo kit, £7.50, Oliver Bonas

LED sleigh lights, £12.95, DotComGiftShop

Minecraft Blockopedia, £30, Waterstones

Buttonbag sewing kit, £8.95, Cuckooland

Dad’s Fix It Shop chalkboard, £19.95, The Painted Broom Company, Not On The High Street

19

y a d h ft l e w t e h t On y m , s a m st i r h of C … e m o t d i a s n e childr

” ! d e r o b m ’ I “

20

GETTING PARENTING FESTIVE

It’s all too easy to get into a winter rut of staying in, watching TV and letting the kids loose on their screens, but boredom can soon set in. Here’s our round-up of great ways to make memories this winter GET ARTY If we’re lucky (or unlucky) enough to get some snow, it makes the perfect blank canvas for budding artists. Add some food colouring to water in a squirty water bottle and let the kids get creative. Or, for an incredible ice display, fill balloons with coloured water (using food colouring again) and leave them outside to freeze. Break the balloons off and hey presto, beautiful coloured spheres to brighten up the garden or even to bowl with.

ALL ABOARD! For a taste of something really magical, fans of The Polar Express can climb aboard for an extra-special festive treat.

Set against the backdrop of Devon’s rolling hills, The Polar Express comes alive with characters from the film on its one-hour round trip. Dancing chefs give out hot chocolate while a conductor punches passengers’ golden tickets before arriving at the North Pole where Santa and his cheeky elves board the train, handing out silver bells to lucky children.

27 November – 28 December 2015, Okehampton, Devon. For more information, visit UKPolarExpressRide.com or call 0800 0232383

GET DIPPING For a dinner with a difference, get the kids around the table and have fondue. Whether it’s veggies, meats or breads dipped into cheese, or fruit, marshmallows or other sweet treats tipped into chocolate, you can’t go wrong with this family feast.

HE’S BEHIND YOU! It’s this time of year that the pantomime season gets underway. Check out your local theatres for showings and remember to take your best shouting voice.

At De Montfort Hall, Leicester, this year is Snow White, starring Sherrie Hewson and Britain’s Got Talent finalist Jon Clegg as the Jester.

12 Dec – 4 Jan

Cinderella is on at the Concordia Theatre, Hinckley. This year’s star of the show is Sooty and the pantomime will also feature a spectacular flying coach and horse.

12 Jan – 6 Feb Aladdin is coming to Loughborough Town Hall and boasts gorgeous costumes, stunning sets and a cave full of surprises.

28 Nov – 10 Jan The Youth Theatre at Welland Park Community College, Market Harborough, is putting on The Wizard of Oz and promises to transport the audience from Kansas to Oz and back again.

23 – 30 Jan

MOVIE NIGHTS Have a family movie night, with tried-and-tested film favourites. Introduce the kids to some of your favourites from when you were younger, such as Ghostbusters, Mary Poppins or Indiana Jones. Or, if you’re feeling festive, opt for a Christmas movie. With so many to choose from The Snowman and Miracle on 31st Street to Santa Claus The Movie and Elf, you’re spoilt for choice. Add in some popcorn and other treats and you’ve got the perfect evening made.

BUILD A DEN When it’s bleak and snowy outside it’s the ideal time to build a den inside. Take over the living room and make it even cosier with blankets and pillows inside. If it’s comfy enough, why not bed down in it for the night… but don’t forget the midnight feast!

HOT CHOCOLATE What’s better on cold days than warming up with a hot chocolate? Get the kids involved and make your own, complete with marshmallows, whipped cream and sprinkles.

Try experimenting with flavours, such as orange, peppermint, white chocolate or caramel and get the children to rate their favourite, Great British Bake Off style. Oh, and for the adults, maybe a sneaky slug of Baileys…?

21

GETTING FESTIVE

TAKE A HIKE While the cold might make you want to stay cosy inside, wrap up warm and hit the great outdoors. Collect items you find and glue them to card to make a nature collage, find tracks in the mud or snow and follow them or, to warm up, do running races and sports day challenges to get the blood pumping. Scavenger hunts are another great way to get the kids active.

SEEING STARS On a really bright night, wrap up the kids, bundle them into the car and get out of town to where it’s dark and see if you can spot the constellations. If it’s Christmas Eve, you might even get a glimpse of Santa on his sleigh…

GET YOUR SKATES ON There are few things as magical as flying over the ice on your skates with in the cold air, with Christmas music playing and lights twinkling. While the ice rink outside Somerset House, London is truly spectacular, there are outdoor ice rinks popping up all over the UK in the lead up to Christmas, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for ones close by.

HIT THE MARKET Birmingham’s German Market is the perfect destination to get real blast of festive cheer.

The largest Christmas market in the UK with 180 stalls, it opens on 12 November until 22 December and is a great place to explore with the kids. Perfect to grab your annual fix of gluhwein, bratwurst and pretzels.

BACK TO BASICS When your children are a little older, get them away from their screens and bring out their competitive streak with an afternoon of hangman, noughts and crosses and ‘Who am I?’. When they tire of that, bring out the big guns – the board games. Try Monopoly, Cluedo and Scrabble for older kids, while Buckaroo, Operation and Ludo are perfect for little ones.

22

As the world-famous Elf on a Shelf is officially launched in the UK, we caught up with one its authors, Chanda A Bell, to find out her top tips for ways to ring in the holidays with family.

For our family, Christmas truly is, and always has been, the most wonderful time of the year.

That’s due in large part to our family’s Christmas tradition of spending the holidays with one of Santa’s scout elves, or The Elf on the Shelf®, and also because we get to be together as a family.

When the kids are out of school, and we’re all gathered together, it’s the perfect time for quality time. If you’re looking for festive, fun ideas to keep your little ones entertained, try out some of our family’s favourite festive holiday activities.

Teach little ones a valuable lesson by giving back to those less fortunate.

You could donate jackets, toys or other winter essentials or volunteer as a family at a local soup kitchen or gift donation centre. Christmas helps us recognise how fortunate we are to have shelter, food, friends and family, and it’s simple to pass that feeling on to others.

Deck the halls with homemade decorations. Paper chains and paper snowflakes are fun and easy craft projects for kids. To create snowflakes, simply fold some white paper in half, then in half again before snipping out little sections and unfolding to reveal a delicate and unique Christmas snowflake.

Add a personal touch to each present you wrap by creating customised paper. Grab some plain brown packing paper and let children draw Christmas scenes and decorate with glitter and sparkly snowflakes.

Stage a Christmas play for the family. Let children choose a scene from their favourite Christmas book or write their own play to perform for the family. Don’t forget the costumes, or the camera.

And whatever you do, don’t forget this top tip for Christmas: spend the holidays with The Elf on the Shelf® to create a fun-filled season! Each night, gather your little ones to read the magical story The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition and each day you and your children can engage in the fun tradition of finding him or her in a new hiding spot.

Chanda A. Bell, co-author of The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition

23

Banish those

winter blues

A

s autumn fades into winter, it’s all too easy to slow things down and hibernate at every opportunity.

Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SAD, is now thought to affect eight out of 10 of us in one form or another. SAD is a mild depression brought on by a lack of sunshine in the winter months. Researchers believe that daylight triggers a reaction in our bodies each morning that stops us from producing melatonin, a hormone that makes us feel drowsy so we can sleep. In the winter months the lack of daylight can mean some people’s bodies don’t stop producing melatonin, which leaves them feeling exhausted.

If you’re feeling like the only thing to get you going is a strong pot of coffee, it’s time to try a different approach.

The biggest difference to your body in winter is the lack of light. Not only does sunlight provide us with essential vitamin D, but it’s a natural mood lifter. Similar to exercise, sunlight exposure releases neurotransmitters in the brain that affect mood. Give yourself a natural boost by sitting close to windows and get outside as often as you can. Look at changing your lightbulbs to ‘full spectrum’ bulbs which mimic natural light and can trick your body into thinking it’s the same thing.

24

Lucy, Debbie and Rebecca at Stomp are the experts when it comes to keeping little feet in tip-top condition

As the days get colder and the nights get longer, it’s easy to see why one in four of us say that our mood takes a turn for the worst.

Here’s our quick-fire guide to beating the blues and keeping those energy levels high

Some foods, like chocolate, can enhance your mood and help to relieve anxiety. Yay! However, before you raid the nearby shop, it seems some chocolate contains more of the vital ingredient, trytophan, than others. Bars with a higher cocoa content are the ones most likely to boost your mood. But, as it’s healthier too, it’s a win win.

Before alarm clocks, we were woken by the sunrise which was a far healthier way to wake up to the day. Research shows that alarms that mimic the natural dawn, by producing a light that gets brighter and brighter before you wake, can help to lessen the affects of SAD. The theory is that waking in light sends a message to the brain to stop producing the melatonin, ensuring we rise and shine.

Walking outside every day can be one of the best things to boost your mood. Not only does it increase your exposure to light, but a brisk walk or other exercise is also proven to lift mild to moderate depression, releasing precious endorphins. Just being outdoors can also improve focus and lower stress levels.

Studies show that listening to upbeat music can significantly lift people’s moods, both long and short term. Choose some tracks that always make you smile, then pump up the volume.

LIFESTYLE

25

IT’S COMPETITION TIME

! n i W A YEAR’S

If your child is fan of climbing, sliding, shrieking and swinging, this is the competition for you

y a l p f o H T R O W

W

e have two annual play passes, each for one child and one adult, up for grabs for 360 Play at Meridian Leisure Park, Leicester.

At 360 Play your little ones will be spoilt for choice. If they like to hurtle, dash and dart, they’ll in their element in the three-storey indoor soft play, which offers an exhausting 8,000 sq ft of play including a giant wave slide, assault race track, aerial swings, cargo nets and tunnels, roundabout and interactive ball zone.

There’s also the fantastic 360 Street which hosts full-size shops such as a pizza parlour and supermarket, and plenty of opportunities for dressing up. Promoting imagination, independence and creativity, 360 Street ensures role play becomes almost real for budding fire fighters, vets and retailers.

There’s also the messy play area where children can glue, stick, paint and chalet to their hearts’ content. Thankfully there are helpers on hand to clean up as you go and offer a little creative help if needed.

For smaller visitors, there’s a separate toddler play area with slides, biff bags, trim trail and building blocks, all soft padded to ensure little ones stay safe while they explore.

Add into the mix an old-fashioned carousel, whizzy dodgems, and an outdoor area with giant sandpits, climbing activities, water boats and *COM PE TITION TER M S A ND CONDITIONS 1. To enter a competition you must be a United Kingdom resident aged 18 years old or over at the time of entry. 2. No purchase necessary. 3. Only one entry per person. 4. Sending an e-mail is not proof that we have received your entry. No responsibility can be accepted for entries that are lost or delayed. 5. The closing date is as specified in each competition, and Full Stop Communications Ltd reserves the right to amend the competition end date at any time. 6. If you win a competition, we will notify you by email, or

26

playhouses, and the only issue facing your little ones is deciding what to tackle first!

And while all this sounds fantastic for energetic children, there’s also a great cafe, perfect for refuelling exhausted grown ups.

While the child is the annual pass holder, the good news is that they can bring along a different adult each time so parents, grandparents and friends can all benefit. And we have two child annual passes up for grabs.

To enter, just drop us a line on comp@ twopointfourmagazine.co.uk with your name and contact details and we’ll draw a lucky winner after the closing date of 31 December 2015. All entries must be received by this date and the winner will be notified shortly afterwards.

For more information on 360 Play, check out the website: 360play.co.uk/welcome/about-360/ Full terms and conditions of the pass can be read here: 360play.co.uk/wp-content/ uploads/2015/02/360-Play-Pass-Form-with-TC.pdf

social media if you entered the competition on a social media platform, within one week of the closing date. The judges’ decision will be final, and no correspondence will be entered into. 7. You can find out who has won a particular competition by sending a stamped addressed envelope, marked with the name of the competition to Full Stop Communications Ltd, 48 Brindley Close, Stoney Stanton, Leicestershire LE9 4GL after the closing date.

8. By entering the competition the winner agrees to participate in such promotional activity and material as Full Stop Communications Ltd

may require. 9. No part of a prize is exchangeable for cash or any other prize. 10. If an advertised prize is not available, we reserve the right to offer an alternative prize of equal or greater value.

11. Full Stop Communications Ltd reserves the right to amend these rules at any time. 12. We will endeavour to send prizes within a month of the competition end date but cannot guarantee this delivery time.

13. The competition is governed by English law. 14. When entering our competitions by email, text or post, you agree to our competition rules and that you are happy to receive updates from Two Point Four magazine.

christmas FAMily WeekeNd

A WArWick ArTS ceNTre ProducTioN iN ASSociATioN WiTh highly SPruNg ANd VorTex creATeS

Sat 28 & Sun 29 Nov Thu 26 Nov – Sun 3 Jan Age 3+

Sat 12 dec – Thu 31 dec Suitable for ALL ages 4+

All illustrations copyright © Axel Scheffler 2004, published by Macmillan Children’s Books.

Warwick Arts Centre @warwickarts

Box Office 024 7652 4524 warwickartscentre.co.uk

Warwick Arts Centre The University of Warwick Coventry, CV4 7AL

27

LATE NIGHT CHRISTMAS SHOPPING THERE’S NO NEED TO RUSH Over 100 shops, 40 restaurants and cafés, and a 12-screen Cinema de Lux If you’re going to be spoilt this Christmas, be spoilt for choice Extended opening hours begin 27th November