families manchester issue 31 jan-feb 2012

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MANCHESTER

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In this issue>What’s in a nursery?>Pre-preps and

education>Are we there yet?

Travelling with kids

Edition 31 • January/February 2012 The local magazine for families with children 0-12 years

Covering: Altrincham, Trafford,Salford, Manchester, Bolton, Bury, Rochdale, Didsbury, Stockport,Cheadle, Bramhall, andsurrounding areas.

www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Bridgewater School, Drywood Hall, Worsley, Manchester. M28 2WQ

www.bridgewater-school.co.uk

BRIDGEWATERSCHOOL

Please call for a personal tour 0161 794 1463

noitadnuoF sraeY ylraE eht fo ssenevitceffe llarevo ehT “Stage provision is outstanding”Outstanding Inspection Report - ISI, May 2011

WelcomeHappy 2012! Why is it that the days drag when you’re young but fly whenyou’re older? Do you suppose it’s just because we’re now having to move ourcreaking joints more slowly that it makes everything around us seem tohappen more quickly?

Last year passed in a blur of school runs, kids activities, birthdays, half terms andChristmas parties – with very little time to stop and take stock of the important stuff, liketruly appreciating friends and family and being grateful for all that we actually have.

So for us, 2012 is going to be about TIME. More quality time spent with ourhusbands, more fun time spent with the kids and more “me” time to recharge the ageingbatteries. And we hope that whatever you decide 2012 is going to be about for you andyour family – that it brings you fulfilment and happiness.

Bring on the year!

2 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Locally speaking

In this issue02: Locally speaking05: Nurseries, Pre-preps & Education13: Parenting14: Travel

16: Parents’ place18: Parties20: What’s on

Inclusion in our locally speaking section is always FREEget in touch: [email protected]

Next issue:March/April 2012

Circulation: 25,000 copies of Families Manchesterare available through nurseries, schools, libraries,selected shops and other points throughout GreaterManchester. If you would like free copies for yourorganisation, please let us know.

Contact details: Families Manchester, PO Box 581, Macclesfield, SK10 9FNTel: 01625 801 801 www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Editorial: [email protected]/artwork: [email protected], diary dates, out & about:[email protected]

Cover photograph by: teneight, Fence House, 84 Buxton Road, Macclesfield SK10 1JS. Tel: 01625 500 488 www.teneightstudios.co.uk

Design: Through Creative, The Old School, Byron Street, Macclesfield SK11 7QA.Tel: 01625 500 939 www.throughcreative.com

Print: Bishops Printers, Walton Road, Portsmouth,Hampshire PO6 1TR Tel: 023 9233 4900 www.bishops.co.uk

Families Manchester is part of the Families group,established in 1990 and headed by Families SouthWest. All franchised magazines in the group areindependently owned and operated under license.

We take every care preparing the magazine, but thepublishers and distributors can’t be held responsiblefor the claims of advertisers, the accuracy of thecontents nor for any consequences.

Stockport Grammar School pupil,Jaina Mistry (14) of Stalybridge, hasbeaten off competition from 10 otherlocal students to be named the RedTractor Beef and Lamb Mmmake itwith Mince Challenge RegionalWinner 2011 for the North West.Jaina was awarded the Regional

Winner title by James Martin afterwowing the judges with her innovativeMeatball Curry with Salad and Naan.

Points were scored for originality, nutritionand presentation. She won an iPod Touchplus £200 in vouchers. Fellow studentsfrom Stockport Grammar, Ed Robinson(14) and Katy Bacon (15) were alsohighly commended by James Martin.Jaina is now up against five otherRegional Winners in the race to becrowned the overall National Champion. Speaking about Jaina’s win, James

Martin said, “The standard of entries thisyear was extremely high and Jaina hasdone exceptionally well to be namedRegional Winner. Her recipe wasinnovative, nutritious and well presented– but most importantly, it tasted great! Itwas clear that everyone worked reallyhard, so choosing the National Championis going to be a really tough choice.“It’s now more important than ever

before to inspire young people to cookproperly and this Challenge is a perfectplatform for them to learn about food,cooking and nutrition. I hope that Jaina’ssuccess will encourage more youngpeople from the local area to get cookingand to try out new and different recipes.”

SGS pupil crowned North WestYoung Chef Regional Winner 2011by celebrity chef James Martin

In a recent unannounced Ofstedinspection, the overall effectivenessof School’s Out at Cloverlea PrimarySchool in Timperley was found to beoutstanding and exemplary in everyarea. Altrincham’s School’s Outorganisation provides childcare forover 500 local children aged 3-11before and after school and duringschool holidays. The Inspector reported: “Children settle

exceptionally well and are enthusiastic tolearn in this warm, inspiring and well-organised environment, which staff haveworked hard to make accessible to all

children. The children are highlymotivated to make their own choices andso make excellent progress. School’s Outmakes fantastic links with parents andother providers, and staff ensure theunique needs of every child are met.”The School’s Out group is part of

Elmscot Ltd, which also includes thehighly regarded and award-winningElmscot and Woodlands nursery schoolsin Timperley, as well as their newestacquisition of Hale Day Nursery. School’s Out operates at seven local

schools: Altrincham Preparatory School,Bollin Primary School, Bowdon C of ESchool, Cloverlea Primary School, HeyesLane Infant & Junior Schools, NavigationPrimary School, Well Green PrimarySchool and of course at CloverleaPrimary School. This is the fourth setting of the Elmscot

group to be awarded Ofsted’s elusive‘Outstanding’ kite mark, ensuring thatfamilies in the Altrincham, Timperley,Bowdon and Hale area have access to thebest quality childcare in the UK.

“Outstanding” OFSTED for SchoolsOut at their Cloverlea Club

Jayne Keep Caryl Hall

Thrilling tales of loyalty, separation,excitement, survival and identity arebrought to life in this major exhibitionfor both children and adults alike.Some of the best loved children’sstories about war are illuminated atIWM North in Manchester, part ofImperial War Museums, throughinteractive activities and uniqueobjects from conflict. The free exhibition, specially created by

IWM, is filled with all the drama of fiveacclaimed novels: War Horse by MichaelMorpurgo, Carrie's War by Nina Bawden,The Machine Gunners by Robert Westall,

The Silver Sword by Ian Serraillier andLittle Soldier by Bernard Ashley. Explorethese perilous stories alongside the historyof real life conflicts from 1914 to thepresent day - all through the eyes offictional children. A tail fin from a German incendiary

bomb, a First World War training horse,evacuee labels and aircraft recognitioncards are just some of the objects fromIWM’s Collections that reveal the realitybehind each of these children's tales.From 1914 to the present day, the storiesare set in their historical context. Personal objects belonging to each

author reveal the truth behind the stories.See the silver sword paperknife thatbelonged to Ian Serraillier and thepainting of Topthorn the horse fromMichael Morpurgo’s kitchen that inspiredWar Horse. Early manuscripts, sketches,photographs and recorded author interviewsexpose the inspiration for each novel. Once Upon A Wartime opens at IWM

North on 11 February 2012 and runs until2 September 2012. Grab a trail pack tohelp families fully explore the exhibition,then pick up a range of children’s booksfrom the Museum shop. Get creative withfree reading and storytelling activities forfamilies on offer from February to August.For more information visitwww.iwm.org.uk.

Once Upon A Wartime – a new FREEexhibition at the Imperial War Museum

3www.familiesmanchester.co.uk | Families Manchester

Locally speaking

Exclusive offer for FamiliesManchester readers

Sign up for Little Kickers classes in January, and enjoy 7 weeks for the price of 6.

Quote FAMILIES MAGAZINE when booking.Trial classes always available

0161 422 5713www.littlekickers.co.uk

High demand means new classes for2012 for Little Kickers in Didsbury & Sale

Tel: 01925 768188 or 07766 290802Email: [email protected]

• A range of full and part-time childcare services including, nannies, live in/out, babysitting, maternity nannies, emergency care, mothers help, housekeepers & special needs nannies.

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Little Kickers football classes (for18 months – 7 years) is delightedthat children are voting with theirfeet and that new classes are openingto allow more children to experiencethe Little Kickers difference.Says director Alex: “Little Kickers has

been running classes locally for over 3years and I am delighted that some of thechildren that started then are still withus and will be until they are seven, provingwe are doing something right. We knowthat parents appreciate our “play not push”attitude as well as the high quality ofthe coaching, small class sizes and thehigh child to coach ratio which allowschildren to work independently with thecoaches to increase their confidenceonce they are 2½ years old. LittleKickers successfully combines theteaching of softer social skills in a non-competitive environment which meansthat a child’s love for football can growand develop at their own pace. There isa place for every child at Little Kickers.

In Didsbury we are delighted to beopening our second venue at Barlow HighSchool for 18 months upwards. The LittleKicks class from 18 months is a lot offun with coaches getting children to enjoyplaying and interacting with each otherand with their footballs. In Sale, Little Kickers is expanding

into Walton Park 5 a side centre to allowthe 3½ -7 year olds the space theyneed to learn new skills and start tounderstand the basics of match play.Shin pads, boots and mud are the orderof the day but the fun stays the same.”New classes start on Saturday 7

January and can be booked by calling0161 442 5713 or by requesting a spaceonline at www.littlekickers.co.uk.New customers can enjoy 7 weeks forthe price of 6 by signing up in Januaryand quoting “Families magazine”. Trialclasses are always available.Spaces at Little Kickers existing venues

at Bowdon, Altrincham, Cheadle Heath,Bramhall, Cavendish Road, Didsbury andSale can also be reserved for January.


Locally speaking

Are you on the committee of alocal School PTA, sports club,hospital, church, scouts, or otherfundraising group? Peel2Save has recently been launched

right across the Families Manchestermagazine area and is a brilliant way forany good cause to raise money at alocal community level. The handycredit-card sized Peel2Save card foldsout to reveal 64 sticker couponscontaining fantastic offers & discounts,worth well over £300, from localbusinesses. The cards are given on Saleor Return to local charities, sports clubs,churches, PTA groups etc who sell themfor £10 each. £5 of this goes directly totheir fundraising activity so it’s an easy

way to boost revenue whilst givingdonors something of genuine value.Adrian Battersby of Peel2Save

Altrincham said: “Whether it’s for a newschool computer, sports equipment orcoach trip for the scouts, this is a greatopportunity for local groups to raisefunds easily – we just need to knowwho they are so that we can help, soplease get in contact!” Call Adrian on 07889

178487 to find out howPeel2Save couldhelp your groupraise more money,more quickly, and moreeasily. www.peel2save.co.uk.

Children at Elmscot Day Nursery,Timperley, recently shared a lovelyexperience meeting Molly theDonkey when she came to visit. Molly is one of many donkeys from

The Elisabeth Svendsen Trust, a UKbased charity dedicated to providingriding therapy with donkeys to childrenwith special needs and disabilities.Elmscot supports the charity by‘adopting’ a donkey, and the Trust kindly

bring Molly to nursery to meet thechildren there. She was of course lovedby all of the children who enjoyedstroking her fluffy tummy and soft nose- although Molly the Donkey was moreinterested in posing for the camera!Elmscot Day Nursery is part of an

award-winning local group of Day Nurseries,including the new Hale Day Nursery andNursery School on Bankhall Lane, whereMolly’s next visit is likely to be.

Molly visits local children

Starlight Performing Arts Academy in Hazel Grove is now auditioning for the following:• Children aged 5-12 to take part intheir forthcoming show Disney'sCinderella Kids

• Band Members – Drummer,Keyboard Player, Guitarist, Bassist,Singer (all ages and abilitieswelcome, leading to paid gigs)

• Girlband and Boyband members(singers & dancers, full training given)

• Teenagers - singers, dancers andactors to be trained professionally to perform in a troupe (leading topaid work)

For more information, please contactHelen on 0161 439 8009or 07515 397715 or via email [email protected].

There’s no Business like Show Business!

Quick and easy fundraising

kidsunlimited day nurseries aregetting ready to welcome the localresidents and businesses of Saleduring their ‘Meet the Manager’event on Friday 20 January 2012.The event, which is being held at its sister nursery, kidsunlimitedTimperley nursery on DeansgateLane, will allow prospective parentsto view the facilities within akidsunlimited setting, to meet the newNursery Manager and some of theteam, and ask any childcare questionsthat they might have. The purpose-built nursery situated on

the Marsland Road opposite Sale Grammar

School will officially open in March 2012,providing specifically designed areas forbabies, toddlers and pre-school children.The nursery, the first of its kind in the Salearea, has already attracted much interest fromlocal parents looking for a purpose-builtfacility offering an all-inclusive service.kidsunlimited is a nationwide

children’s daycare provider with over 25years’ experience. They offer youngchildren boundless opportunities to learnthrough imagination, creativity and play,while offering parents the peace of mindthat comes from knowing their childrencouldn’t be better cared for.www.kidsunlimited.co.uk.

A fresh new nursery arrives in Sale

So say the children at Holyrood DayNursery in Altrincham following theirrecent visit to Fresh Start WasteService – a Manchester basedrecycling company. The nursery iscurrently working towards their silverECO schools award and has beenencouraging the children to activelyparticipate in the recycling process. The inquisitive children in the pre-

school room at the nursery wanted to takethis a step further by finding out whathappened to the waste materials after thelorry had collected them. Never one toleave a question unanswered, Sam thenursery manager and the staff teamarranged for the eager 3 and 4 year olds

to visit to a local recycling plant toprovide answers to their questions.Fresh Start Waste Services based in

Swinton were happy to enlist the help ofthe mini recyclers and fully embracedtheir interest in the process. This was afantastic opportunity and the childrenwere given a full tour of the plant as wellas goody bags to take home! A great timewas had by all participating in the handson learning experience and the childrenparticularly enjoyed sitting in the lorryand wearing Hard hats and high Visvests. Sam the nursery manager felt thatthis was a great foundation for recyclingawareness for the children.Holyrood actively encourage children

to be involved in the recycling of wastematerials and imbed these principles inall aspects of nursery life. The trip to therecycling plant reinforced these valuesand gave the children the opportunity tosee what happens to their recycling.

It’s never too soon to start recycling

Make it a happy new year from

bananalane with free postage just

enter FAM2012 at checkout.

So, your little one’s growing up and it’stime to start thinking about nurseries.Day nurseries, nursery schools, pre-schools – nurseries come in all shapesand sizes and navigating your waythrough them can be daunting. Whetheryou’re going back to work or just wantyour child to benefit from all that nurseryhas to offer, here is our guide to findingthe best, and right, nursery for you.Studies have shown that children who

attend nurseries can be more confidentand often go on to do better at school. Agood nursery will prepare your child forthose first few nerve-wracking weeks atschool, plus most children thrive on thestimulation at nursery. Another advantage isthe year-round care they offer, and you knowyour child is being looked after by qualified

staff who won’t become ill and need timeoff work – at least not all at the same time!Day nurseriesOpen usually 8am-6pm, day nurseriesare a good option for working parents asmany will take babies from 3 months. Theday follows structured activities interspersedwith naps, meals and outdoorplay. Day nurseriesoffer continuity of care and your child doesn’thave to stay all day – many day nurserieswill do half days or you can collect early.Nursery schoolsNursery schools are often more formal inthe way they structure sessions. Theyusually take children from 2½-3 years andprovide a grounding for starting school,teaching letters, shapes, numbers andsometimes even early-stage reading.Nursery schools give children theopportunity to make friends of the sameage as most require children to do either5 morning or 5 afternoon sessions, sothe same children will be there everyday.They are often smaller scale with apersonal touch, too, but perhaps are notso convenient for working families.Nursery classes in schoolsThe first step in ‘real’ school life, thesecan be excellent for children who areready for school and structured,educational play. They are convenient ifyou already have siblings at the school,

What’s in a nursery? but again sessions are often only 3 hourslong which may not be practical. Nurseryclasses in independent schools are morelikely to offer full school-day sessions butnursery classes attached to state schoolsare free! It’s important to remember that aschool nursery place does notautomatically guarantee a place in reception.Pre-schools and playgroupsPlaygroups usually take children from2½yrs, offering short sessions to ‘ease’your child out of the home and into a moresociable learning environment where theycan play, learn and have fun. Playgroupshave a varied mix of toys, games, singing,story-time, arts and crafts and usually anoutdoor area. Parents are encouraged tobe active members of the playgroup andtheir small-scale settings are less dauntingfor shy children. They are also excellentvalue for money as they tend to be not-for-profit and are sometimes staffed byvolunteers, with parents staying to help out.Montessori nurseries and SteinerschoolsMontessori teaching is based on a methodwhich fosters and guides children’s in-built curiosity for learning. In a Montessorinursery it is the children themselves, whochoose from the range of activities offered.Using sensory materials to provideintellectual, physical and psychological

stimuli, Montessori schools aim todevelop the child’s whole personality.The aim of Steiner schools is to foster

imagination and creativity; they don'tintroduce formal education before the ageof six, concentrating on creative playrather than the ‘three Rs’.Both these options can be great, but

might not prepare a child who is going onto a particularly academic school (withentrance exams perhaps) but they do offera more holistic approach to learning.Workplace nurseriesMuch sought-after, workplace nurseriesprovide full or part-time childcare, but thinkabout the location. If your journey to workis an hour long your toddler may notappreciate the trip home at 6pm and anursery around the corner from homemight be a better idea.SureStart Children’s CentresA number of Centres offer affordable,flexible childcare for up to 10 hours a day.Worth considering!Nursery ChecklistOnce you’ve found a nursery, go and havea look. Go back again if you’re still notsure. A good nursery will welcome a visitand might even let your child join in. Bywatching the other children you’ll get agood idea of whether it's the rightenvironment for your child.

5

Nurseries, Pre-preps & Education

www.familiesmanchester.co.uk | Families Manchester



Nursery fees vary greatly, dependingon location, demand and what isoffered. They start at around £100 aweek and go up to 4 times that, butthere are ways to get help with the costs:• Nursery Education Grant – all 3 and4 year olds are entitled to 15 hoursof free early-education a week for38 weeks of the year. This appliesuntil they reach compulsory schoolage (the term following their fifthbirthday), and can be applied

flexibly over a minimum of three days.Free early education places areavailable at a range of early years settingsincluding nursery schools and classes,children’s centres, day nurseries, playgroups and pre-schools and childminders.Your child will be eligible for the NurseryEducation Grant from the term aftertheir third birthday. If you choose anursery which costs more than thefunding or use the nursery for more hoursthe grant will be offset against your bill.

• Your employer may providesubsidised onsite childcare, oroffer Childcare Vouchers as a portionof your salary. Download a guide atwww.childcarevouchers.co.uk.or find out more about ChildcareVouchers atwww.hmrc.gov.uk/calcs/ccin.htm.Check if your nursery will acceptChildcare Vouchers.

• You may be able to recoup someof your childcare costs throughthe tax credit scheme, dependingon the number of hours you workand your household income. Tofind out if you are eligible go towww.payingforchildcare.org.ukor www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/TaxCredits.

• Find out about the Early YearsFoundation Stage atwww.direct.gov.uk. Download a listof registered childcarers in your area.

• For local nurseries and links toOfsted reports go towww.findmyschool.co.uk.

• The National Day Nurseries Associationprovides information for parents.Search for NDNA member nurseriesat www.ndna.org.uk/parents.

• The Preschool Alliance www.pre-school.org.uk.

• SureStart has information aboutchildcare options, tax credits and freenursery places, plus links to theChildren’s Information Servicewww.direct.gov.uk.

• Try your local council’s Family InformationService: manchester.fsd.org.ukwww.rochdale.gov.ukwww.bury.gov.ukwww.bolton.gov.uk.

• OFSTED www.ofsted.gov.uk.• For more articles on choosing anursery, early learning, independentor chain of nurseries, childminderversus nursery, tree nurseries,Montessori education and more visitwww.familiesmanchester.co.uk.Remember, if you don’t want to readabout nurseries in Scotland thenmake sure you log in: this way you’llonly see results in your area!

Nursery Grants explained

More Information

• Start early! “It sounds ridiculous, but Iput my bump down for nursery when Iwas pregnant,” says Camille, motherof one. “OK, I wasted a few registrationfees, but at least I got a place at thenursery I really wanted.”

• Near or far? Think about the time ittakes to get to nursery. There’s a lot tobe said for a nursery around the cornerfrom home, and it helps bring downyour carbon footprint.

• Does the nursery have a welcoming,happy, cheerful atmosphere? Somenurseries offer cosy, home-likeenvironments whereas others havemore room to run around in. A child-friendly outdoor space can be a realdraw when choosing a nursery,especially for lively boys. Also, checkbasic things like security, cleanlinessand equipment.

• “Looks aren’t everything,” says Kate,mother of 3. “If a nursery is a bit shabbyit could still be fantastic in terms ofquality of care. And perfect, pristineequipment is not being used!”

• Watch the staff. Look at their ages –the younger staff may have energy butthe older ones have experience and

usually more patience. “My preferenceis always an owner-run nursery,” saysMarianna, mum of 2. “It’s their ownbusiness and they’ll really care about it.”Are the carers interacting with thechildren or are they just chatting to eachother? Look at staff turnover and ask ifthe nursery ever uses agency staff.

• Consider your child’s routine. “Mylittle one sleeps 1-3pm,” says Alice, afirst-time mum, “so afternoon nurseryis no good for me.” Many parents alsowant a nursery that provides all meals– but do consider what your child isbeing fed and where it is cooked!

• What does the nursery offer? How arethe sessions structured? Look for a mixof fun along with quieter activities. Arethere additional classes such asFrench and ballet? Do they take theolder children on outings? How muchis your child learning in preparation forschool? Do you want them to learnletters and numbers?

• “I wish someone had told me aboutnurseries that feed into schools,”complains Lissy. “I wanted my daughterto go to a school where she needed topass an assessment, but the nursery I

sent her to didn’t prepare her and whenshe was asked to write her name at theassessment she burst into tears!” 3 to5 year olds are taught according to aframework set out by the Government’sEarly Years Foundation Stage butsome nurseries will go far beyond thisacademically. On the other hand, someparents will run a mile from a nurserythat hothouses such young children.

• “I wanted a nursery for Annabel whereher key worker would chat to me everyday and tell me what she had been upto. Some nurseries I looked aroundseemed too busy to do that,” says Sarah.

• Read the latest OFSTED report - agreat way for detailed info on everythingfrom quality of care and education tocleanliness and opportunities for play.Although all nurseries follow OFSTEDguidelines, there’s room for interpretation!

• How flexible will the nursery be if youneed to swap a day or add anafternoon? You’ll soon discover howuseful this can be.

• The best way to choose a nursery is gutinstinct. Look at whether the children arerelaxed, happy, stimulated and engaged.“If it clicks, it’s probably right,” says Jo.

How to find the right nursery – a parent’s guide:

7



If you’re one of the millions ofworking parents, you’ll probably notonly be worried about the risingcost of living but also the cost ofchildcare. Childcare Vouchers arenot surprisingly becoming the mostpopular benefits employers canoffer working parents as they saveon tax. These can be used to pay forchildcare at Super Camps’ camps

and courses for ages 4 - 14, whichare all Ofsted registered. Super Camps also offer an Early

Booking Rate which runs from 3 Januaryto 11 March 2012. You can save up to£40 per week or up to £8 per day perchild (site dependent). You can book allyour days for Easter and summer anduse the Flexi-Change facility if you needto move these dates around later on.

There are other discounts availableduring the year but this works out to bethe biggest saving. “We were planning our childcare for

the year. I paid for four days at SuperCamps during the summer with myChildcare Vouchers using the EarlyBooking rate and saved £32 off thestandard rate. The provider runs from8am – 6pm so this works out at about

£2.68 per hour for childcare.” Super Camps Parent, summer 2011Corporate Discounts are also

available, so if you work for anorganisation where there are parentslooking for childcare, call the customerservice team on 01235 832222 todiscuss your requirements.www.supercamps.co.uk.

Use your Childcare Vouchers at Super Camps

The best early learning activities canbe found around the home, includingwithin your freezer! Ice is a fantastictool for encouraging children to observechanges and begin to question howand why things happen. Here a fewsimple and fun ideas that you can tryat home with your child.

In winter, we often see roads andpavements being ‘salted’ to prevent (ormelt) ice. This because adding salt to icewill lower the freezing point of the ice,effectively causing it to melt. Children arefascinated by this process and here aretwo fun activities you can try at home.

Melting Ice Cube RacesPlace 2 identical ice cubes into twoseparate trays/containers; explain that weare going to have a melting race! You aregoing to put salt on one of the ice cubes –which one does your child think will melt

first? Have your child sprinkle salt ontoone of the ice cubes. The cube with thesalt will begin to melt more quickly thanthe unsalted ice. This activity willencourage your child to talk about thechanges they can see happening and whythey might be happening.

Trapped!Ask your child to choose several small toysand explain that you are going to trap themin ice and the child will have to save them!Fill a container (this could be an ice cubetray, a margarine tub, a rubber glove, etc)

with water and ask your child to put theirtoys inside, and place this into your freezer.Once frozen, remove the ice from itscontainer and put it on a tray. Challengeyour child to think of different ways to freetheir toy from the ice – What will help theice melt/break? What will make the icemelt/break fastest? What do we have athome that we could use? This activity willencourage your child to observe changesand explore the effects of different actionson materials.

Ice Science – activities using ice at home to expand a child’s learning (Cool Science!) by Victoria Murray, Early Years Specialist at kidsunlimited nurseries



Advertise in FamiliesManchester

Call Jayne on: 01625 801801 or [email protected] Being outdoors in winter is an exciting time for children

as there are so many new learning opportunities toexplore. Snow, frost and ice are fascinating andchildren love to investigate what happens to theirenvironment during these chilly months. Why notturn this into a shared learning experience and takea walk to discover the wonders of winter, making amap to help you find your way back to the sameplace on another day to see what has changed.Just a walk to the local park is an ideal opportunity to

make discoveries about the world around us: looking atthe frosty patterns, the berries on the shrubs, footprints insnow and the icy puddles. So wrap up warm in yourwinter clothing and off you go!What you need: • Warm clothing• Camera and a method of printing photos• Large sheet of paper – the back of an old roll ofwallpaper is ideal

• Glue • Pencils

On your way, look out for and point out items of interest toyour child. Describing what you can see and why it looksdifferent in the winter i.e. a garden may be covered in snow,a tree where all the leaves have fallen off or a shrub that hasberries on - remember to explain to your child that manyberries can be harmful and not to eat them!Along the way encourage your child to take photographs

of the items of interest that can be used to make a map onyour return, such as a friend’s house on the way, a bigtree, a local shop, a post box or road sign.When you get home, print the photographs and talk to

your child about what you saw first on your walk, and whatcame next, placing the photographs in order onto a largesheet of paper. Write below what direction you walked inwhen you got to the landmark. Once you have finishedyou should have a map which will help you return to thesame spot the same way. Why not go out again to test tosee if your map is right!EYFS Areas of Learning covered in this adventure: all of them!

Communication, Language and Literacy; Creativity, Knowledgeand Understanding of the World; Problem Solving, Reasoning& Numeracy; Physical; Personal, Social and Emotional.

Winter Wanders and Map-Making by Julie Singleton EYP and Director of Childcare with the Elmscot childcare group

Under new Government plans to spotchildren who are failing to developproperly, all two-year-olds will begiven a compulsory “progress check”.Two-year-olds in England will beassessed to discover whether theycan use certain basic words, respondto familiar sounds, communicate theirwants and socialise with others, aspart of an Early Years FoundationStage framework setting out toidentify struggling children.

All parents will be given a written reportof their child’s abilities in these key areas,with Ministers claiming that this will helpto identify any early developmentalproblems. They are concerned that toomany children are starting school withoutthe necessary basic social and languageskills, and Sarah Teather, Liberal DemocratMinister for Children, said “the importanceof the early years – as a foundation for lifeand for future attainment and success –cannot be overestimated. That’s why it’svital we have the right framework tosupport high quality early years education.”However, Richard House, senior lecturerin psychotherapy at RoehamptonUniversity, says “Children are so diversethat to even begin constructing somegeneralised view of how they should bedeveloping at a certain age is fraughtwith danger.” He goes on to state thatthe move risked defining children as“failures” at a young age.

Checks for two-year-oldsFocus on phonicsA recent report has been publishedwith MPs claiming that the focus onphonics in schools will turn readingfor children into a “dull exercise”.They are concerned that childrenwill be turned off reading by theGovernment’s new literacy driveand the Coalition policies that havebeen designed to make schools useback-to-basics teaching methods.

In order to improve literacy inEngland, the Government want primaryschools to use synthetic phonics, withchildren sitting a ‘phonics test’ afteronly one year at school. However, theAll-Party Parliamentary Group forEducation is claiming in its report thattoo much emphasis on this methodcould affect pupils’ learning and lead toa decline in literacy. They also claimthey are joined in this opinion by theeducation establishment. According tothe latest figures, around 16 per cent of

children leave primary school withoutbeing able to read to an acceptablelevel, with one-in-10 boys having onlythe reading skills of a seven-year-old.“Literacy is the key to the curriculum,”said Fabian Hamilton, Labour MP andchairman of the Parliamentary group.“Pursuing phonics without consideringwhether pupils can comprehend whatthey’re reading, and without paying anyattention to whether children enjoyreading, will switch children off.Learning to read – especially a complexlanguage like English – cannot bereduced to a mechanical process.”However, Nick Gibb, the SchoolsMinister, has rejected the group’sconclusions, saying “High-qualityevidence from across the world showsthat the systematic teaching of syntheticphonics is the best way to teach basicreading skills, and especially thoseaged five to seven.”

9



With an ‘Outstanding’ inspection andexcellent A level and GCSE results,Bridgewater is marking its 60thAnniversary Year.By offering places for students aged three

to 18, Bridgewater School provides a levelof continuity that supports children in a uniqueway. Lasting relationships extend from pupils,parents and staff to create a strong sense ofcommunity and family that focus on theindividual. The recent Independent SchoolsInspectorate (ISI) who visited Bridgewaterin May of 2011 found that at Bridgewater:“Pupils’ personal development is outstanding”.It also noted that: “Excellent relationships existamongst pupils and between staff and pupils”. Classroom experiences are enriched with

extra-curricular visits to places of culturaland historical importance. Students areencouraged to develop an active lifestyle andpursue talents with sport, music, drama

clubs and societies, as well as involvementwith Duke of Edinburgh and World Challenge.Language exchange visits and outdoor activitybreaks also support student’s personaldevelopment and help to create the confidentand responsible students that Bridgewater isrenowned for, and were evident when the6th form students visited Borneo.An Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

unit has provided a spacious, purpose-builtarea for the Kindergarten and Receptionclasses, described as “outstanding” by theISI Inspection Report. Other recent additionsinclude a new Independent Learning Centre– home to a bright and modern library anda newly refurbished IT suite. The continueddevelopment ensures new buildings andfacilities are suitable for the growing numberof pupils attending Bridgewater School.A balanced education at Bridgewater helps

students to achieve not just during theirschool years but well beyond. The skills theyattain at Bridgewater help them to succeedthroughout their lives. The ISI commented“Pupils are confident, articulate and sensitiveto each other’s needs.” The report alsostressed: “Good teaching contributes tothe pupil’s achievements, as do their ownpositive, aspirational attitudes.”

Bridgewater School – where individuals count



The 121-year-old school for girls aged7 – 18yrs stands seventh in the tableof the country’s top 100 independentschools published by the SundayTimes – the only representative ofthe north in the national top 30.Seventh place – based on an exceptional

2011 pass rate of 97.2 per cent at A*– Bgrades at A-level and 97.1 per cent at A*and A grades at GCSE – puts Withingtonahead of many of the most famous andexpensive independent schools in the country.

Sue Marks, who became Withington’s10th headmistress last summer, said: “Weare absolutely delighted to be recognisedonce again as the top school in the North.“The tables reflect primarily the high

ability of our students and the excellenceof our teachers. What the tables don't tellyou, but our glowing inspection report does,is that our extra-curricular programme isvery wide ranging and stimulating andthat our pastoral care is outstanding too.”Earlier this year the Sutton Trust named

Withington the country’s second mostsuccessful school for placing sixth formersin the UK's 30 most highly selectiveuniversities; more than 9 out of 10 ofWithington Upper Sixth leavers have goneon to one of these prestigious universitiesover the past three years.And Withington pupils don’t just scale

outstanding academic peaks: theSchool’s World Challenge team climbedMt Kilimanjaro during the summer and in

December a dozen sixth formers undertookprojects at a village school in The Gambia.By contrast, Withington’s spectacular fashionshow sees girls strut their glamorous stufffor charity. Last year the event raised morethan £7,000 – just one of many excitingactivities from sport, music and drama toModel United Nations and Young Enterpriserelished by happy and engaged girls witha sense of purpose and a belief that theycan succeed in whatever they do in life.True to the wishes of its founders, the

School remains relatively small (550 inthe Senior School and 90 in the JuniorSchool), affording girls individual attentionthroughout – and the single site enablesJunior girls to be taught by Senior Schoolspecialist staff across the sciences, modernlanguages, music and PE, ensuring all-round educational development starts atan early stage. www.withington.manchester.sch.uk.

Withington Girls’ School is confirmed as the best school in the north of England

Moor Allerton Preparatory School inDidsbury provides a small andnurturing environment for childrenentering Early Years. Their Foundationstage, which covers the education ofchildren from three to five, is splitover two small nursery classes andtwo reception classes. The classeshave fully qualified and experiencedteachers and teaching assistants. Earlyyears children learn music, dance and

PE from specialist staff, in line with therest of school. They carefully monitoreach child’s progress, develop theirenthusiasm for learning and knowledgeand encourage them to becomeconfident and successful learners. In the nursery classes the children

follow a carefully planned educationalprogramme. This is done mostlythrough structured play and with moreformal activities when appropriate. Theystress the importance of developingchildren’s personal and social skills atthis age and also encourage earlyreading and writing skills, as well asbasic mathematical concepts. Thechildrens’ interest in the outside worldis nurtured, enabling them to developcreatively and physically through arange of activities and experiences.

There is a natural progression as theslightly older children continue to build onand refine the skills and concepts introducedthem to earlier. As they deepen theirunderstanding, their confidence grows.They begin to concentrate for longer andbecome more independent. Most pupils will have moved beyond the

Early Learning Goals before the end ofReception and will be ready to progress toKey Stage 1. There is close collaborationbetween these classes to make sureprogression is maintained. Assessments for both Nursery and

Reception places begins early in 2012.Their Open Day on Wednesday, 1stFebruary 2012 is an ideal opportunity toyou to see what Moor Allerton has tooffer. Please call them today on 0161445 4521 to make an appointment.www.moorallertonschool.com.

A happy and energetic independent primary school

January 2012 marks the beginning ofan important anniversary for theoldest school in the North of England,as Stockport Grammar Schoolcelebrates 525 years since itsfoundation by Sir Edmond Shaa,Mayor of London and Prime Wardenof the Goldsmiths’ Company. A yearof festivities opens with a GalaConcert, in collaboration withChorale and Cheshire Sinfonia, at theRoyal Northern College of Music onthe 25th February. SGS has never rested on its laurels and

the conclusion of the Independent Schools’Inspectorate that ‘the pupils’ overallachievement and their learning, attitudesand skills are outstanding” was a welcomestart to the 524th year. Excellent pastoralguidance and over a hundred clubs andactivities make school life a happy andexciting experience for girls and boysfrom 3 to 18 years. The school continues to invest in superb

facilities, with the construction of a new £4million teaching block well underway. Aseparate Junior School and Nursery on thesame site provides younger children witha caring and stimulating environment inwhich to learn, whilst enjoying the benefitsof strong links with the Senior School.SGS is easy to reach with extensive

school bus routes, including a new servicefrom Sale, Altrincham and Hale, and closeproximity to two railway stations. Means-tested bursaries are available at 11+ and16+, and music scholarships at 11+.Parents and children are warmly invited

to Open Events and regular school dayvisits throughout the year.www.stockportgrammar.co.uk.

Celebrating 525 Years ofOutstandingEducation

A new report shows that the numberof children diagnosed with specialneeds has risen by 10 per cent in thepast five years, amid concerns thatschools are “playing the system” todisguise poor exam results. According to the Department for

Education, around 1.7m schoolchildren inEngland, which is more than 1 in 5, havebeen diagnosed with special educationalneeds and suffer from behavioural

problems, learning difficulties or physicaldisabilities. A report published this winterby the Department concluded that bothboys and children from the most deprivedbackgrounds were more likely to beclassified special needs than any othergroup. The study also underlined the linkbetween special needs and poorexamination results, with only one-fifth ofchildren with special needs leavingschool with five good GCSEs. But Ofsted

is concerned that up to half of childrenwere wrongly labelled ‘special needs’ asa way to mask inadequate teaching, andthat “higher expectations of all children”would lead to an actual drop in thenumber being diagnosed. As a result, theGovernment has proposed an overhaul ofthe system, with Ministers trialling thereforms in a number of locations.

More schoolchildren have ‘special needs’

11



For young children joining The BuryGrammar Schools Cygnets PreSchool (3-4years) or Reception (4-5) their learning journey couldnot be more exciting. Every aspectof a child’s development is carefullynurtured by a highly qualified anddedicated staff led by teachers andearly years experts.

Every parent knows that childrenlearn best through play but this takes ona much wider dimension when that playis supported by a whole host of resourcesto be found both within the customdesigned Kindergarten and in theoutdoor play area to which the childrenhave access all the time. ‘The childchooses’ is the dominant theme aslearning is carefully tailored to eachindividual boy and girl. Because manychildren love to be outdoors there are asmany exciting activities in the outdoorarea as inside. Cleverly devised focusedactivities ensure that the children areenriching their understanding of theworld about them and developing theirabilities as natural problem solvers.

Children’s progress at this stage isphenomenal and parents share in theexcitement of witnessing it as the staffensure that they are kept fully informedand also have opportunities to join thechildren at key points throughout theyear. In the words of one of the parents:“Our son loves Cygnets. He enjoysseeing his friends and loves thefriendliness of the staff and the routine.He especially likes the ‘wellie walk’.”The BGS Pre School and Reception

is just the beginning of an exciting andfulfilling educational journey that takesthe pupils through an exceptionalacademic education enhanced by manyextra-curricular activities to youngadulthood. At every stage they will beencouraged to be independent thinkersand outstanding communicators;

qualities which take them on to topuniversities and fine careers. Parents seeking entry for their children

are warmly invited to contact the schoolsto arrange a visit on any working day.Visit www.bgsg.bury.sch.uk for moreinformation or call the schools who willbe happy to answer any questions youmay have about the admissions processat all stages.

A fine start at Bury Grammar

New figures show that more andmore parents are sending their sonsto boys-only prep schools with theintention of giving them acompetitive and sporty education. In fact, 72 per cent of boys’ schools

have seen pupil numbers rise since lastyear, according to a survey by the

Independent Association of PrepSchools (IAPS). The findings also foundthat just 14 per cent of boys’ schoolshave recorded a decrease in pupilnumbers. However, it also noted a dropin numbers at girls’ schools, with 56per cent of schools reporting thatattendances had dropped in the pastyear compared with only a third whorecorded an increase. 324 schools were

surveyed, with the results showing thatparents were looking to guarantee theirsons an “interesting and challenging”education, the IAPS said. Having highnumbers of male teachers and excellentsporting and extra-curricular activitiescould also have played a part inattracting parents, according to thereport. The results of the report werepublished at the IAPS annual

conference where David Hanson, chiefexecutive of IAPS, said: “This growthhas been achieved by our schoolsproviding world-class education. Weare aware of the economic challengesparents face and the sacrifices theymake but parents know that investing ineducation is the best investment youwill ever make.”

Boys go single sex

13

Parenting


It’s so easy to get caught in a cyclewhere everything feels as if it becomes apower battle – asking them to do a simpleeveryday task such as brushing their teeth,they don’t do it when asked, followed byescalating threats and confrontation; withouteven meaning it, the morning’s off to a badstart. And unfortunately this can also starta cycle – you expect confrontation next timeand so on; it’s exhausting and upsettingfor everyone.For recurring situations ofconfrontation think about what’sbehind their behaviour:• Is your response stronger or more punitive than perhaps thesituation deserves?

• Are they upset, confused or fearfuland so unable to take on board themessage or to learn?

• Are they really doing it to annoy you?Or are they looking for respect and anopportunity to be trusted to makesome of their own choices?

• Do you really need to be involved inevery small detail? Might a ‘you aretrusted’ message be more effective inmoving towards getting things done?

Here are a few questions to askyourself before next time• Is this important? Whose problem isit, mine or theirs?

• Does it have to be done now?• Have I made it clear what I want themto do and why?

• With an older child, talking throughthe problem and what might helpdevelops their problem-solving skillsand independence.

• Can I offer limited choice instead?‘WHEN you have done…, THEN youcan have/do…’, ‘Would you likeTHIS ONE or THAT…?’

• Am I too wound up to notice whenthey are responding or behaving well,and do I remember to praise thesesmall improvements?

Often if we step back, take a breath and calmdown, we can see other options which avoidconfrontation. They have an opportunity tolearn to be more capable and to makebetter choices the next time. Time andencouragement at these moments requiresastonishing levels of self-control by parents,but can make interactions so much moreconstructive. Children learn to be moreco-operative as they feel respected.

Trusting your child involves taking arisk as a parent. I remember being allowedto sit on the counter as a child of five andpaint the kitchen wall. I can still rememberhow much effort I put in when paintingaround the white light switch in a dark petrolgreen colour. I felt competent and trusted.No doubt my parents had to tidy up theedges, but I didn’t see that part. I was notbeing over-managed, I was shown whatto do and allowed to get on with it. So Idid my best.

Of course you need to have somenon-negotiables about areas such assafety, sleep, eating, family rules etcwhich are backed up with constructiveconsequences, but keep these to aminimum where possible. Then you can

move into more expansive areas;imagine your older children organizing abirthday celebration for you (give thema budget and prepare to be surprised!),or making dinner one evening, or theyoung ones packing their own luggagefor a trip to Granny’s, or perhapsgathering nice things for an afternoonpicnic. They’re likely to put heart andsoul into the job and OK things can getquirky, but maybe that is part of the fun.Giving your child choices, even

limited ‘This-one-or-that-one’ choicesmakes them feel trusted and capable.Feeling valued, they don’t need the powerbattles to say ‘Get off my back, I can doit!’ And when they make mistakes, orthings don’t quite work out we can onlyadmire them for having tried andencourage them to try another approach.

You can contact Dr Clare Bailey fromParenting Matters about individualconsultations held by phone or face-to-face,by calling 01494 677575 or by goingto www.parentingmatters.co.uk.Parenting Matters also run courses youcan do from home (or work) in smallgroups using an interactive web-based,coach-led presentation.

Why empowering your kids makes for a happier home life

‘The hardest part of raisinga child is teaching them toride bicycles. A shaky child ona bicycle for the first timeneeds both support andfreedom. The realisation thatthis is what the child willalways need can hit hard.’Sloan Wilson

‘Go and brush your teeth! Now! Why haven’t you done it yet??’ ‘I’m going to ask you twice only, then thenaughty step… OK… no bike, no TV!’. Sound familiar? And as you walk out of the room, do you wonderwhy it has to be such a battle? But put yourself in your children’s shoes – imagine being told to do thesame simple thing every day of your life, wouldn’t you prefer just to be trusted to get on with it?

Ben Hatch, author of Are We nearlyThere Yet?, his wife Dinah and theirtwo children Phoebe (3) and Charlie(1) spent 5 months touring Britain’sfamily-friendly attractions. In thecourse of 8000 miles they reviewed900 attractions, slept in tents,mobile homes, castles, hotels, and,once, in their car. They wereattacked by bats, had confrontationswith puff adders, Nazis and BilliePiper’s pyjamas. Here, Ben offers upa few highlights and learnings:

• Not owning a sat-nav today is likebeing a 14th century sailor and tryingto round the Cape without a nauticalchart. We bought one halfwaythrough our trip. Put it this way, if I’da choice – brakes or sat-nav? – I’dgladly drill a hole in the driver’sfootwell and use my feet to slow down.

• It’s unwise to allow Dinah, my wife,who has a raging cheloniaphobia (fearof tortoises and any creatures that looklike tortoises), to wander untendedthrough Birdworld in Farnham. I’m alsoaware now, that afterwards telling her,as she hyperventilates into a bag, “I’msorry, I thought Tortoise Hill was just adescription of what the hill looked like.Not a description of what lived on thehill,” cuts little ice.

• In Welly Boot Land at the SlimbridgeWetland Centre, after handlingducklings and feeding wild fowl(“There’s some for you swan. And yougoose. No, you've had yours heron”) itisn’t a good idea to take your eyes offyour children. There’s an artificial streamrunning through the play-park that ourchildren attempted, fully clothed, toswim up like salmons running to theirnative breeding grounds.

• At the Jorvik Viking Centre in York it’spossible, through responding to aseries of questions about your haircolour, and also, somewhat baffling,your sandwich filling of choice, to seehow much Viking blood you possess.

• After almost being blown up a field oflive ordnance inside a Military Zone,near Otterburn, we’ve learnt to be carefultaking the kids for nature wees and tolook out for signs saying: “Warning:This may explode and kill you.”

• It’s easy stealing lunch from hotelbreakfast buffets. Secretive initiallywe’d pilfer odd rolls when waitressesbacks were turned. A few weeks in,feral, we were snatching camemberttriangles, bacon, sausages andyoghurts then asking for napkins towrap it all up in.

• You can impersonate David Blaine onthe A719 between Dunure and Croy inScotland. Here there’s an opticalillusion created by the surroundinglandscape which means that if you putyour car in neutral and release thebrake it appears to slowly roll up hill.Known as the Electric Brae (braemeaning slope), the spot is marked bya stone cairn inscribed with anexplanation that you needn’t troubleyour awe-struck family with.

• On long journeys don’t overselldestinations as we did visiting theWensleydale Cheese Visitor Centre. On the strength of a Yorkshire TouristBoard leaflet featuring Wallace andGromit sticking their thumbs up, werashly promised life-size models of thecartoon characters wandering around.However, the only thing Wallace andGromit related was a chalk outline ofthem on the café’s specials board.We’d driven two hours to a working

cheese factory to show the kids theprocesses milling and tipping and forthem to learn how Wensleydale cheesedid in the last Nantwich InternationalCheese festival.

• At the The Roald Dahl Museum andStory Centre in Great Missenden, welearned that the great children’s writerkept on his writing desk a model of ahurricane plane in recognition of theone he flew in World War 2, apaperknife of his father’s and thethighbone he had removed by asurgeon who later remarked it was thebiggest he’d ever seen, it all helpfullymaking the loose orange peel,crumpet crumbs and broken monkeynut casing on my desk at home seemmildly more excusable to my wife.

• Cheap in-car dvd players areinadvisable. Ours kept disconnectingfrom the cigarette lighter and returningthe film to the beginning every timemy wife scratched her leg in thepassenger seat. Consequently despitewatching Finding Nemo 10 times ourkids are still unaware Nemo waseventually reunited with his father.

• Mother Shipton’s Cave in North Yorkshire,is where a 17th century prophetesslived, predicted both the Great Fire ofLondon and the advent of email.

• I now never to listen to my wife onhealth matters. In a serviced apartmentin Leeds she advised me a pain in myside was trapped wind and I should“cycle in the air” to alleviate it. I waseventually rushed (after she and thekids had finished watching Nina andNeurones on cbeebies) to the A & Edepartment of St James Hospital,Leeds where a kidney stone wasdiagnosed. Thanks, love.

• At Shakespeare’s Birthplace Museumin Stratford-upon-Avon we learnt thatwhen period costumed performerssuddenly jump out of nowhere andstart launching into performances ofShakespeare plays, these actors will

happily pose for snaps and alsopretend not to mind having their tightswiped with the luminous orangeresidue from your son’s Hip Organicspaghetti bolognaise.

• You can have fun in the ScottishCentral Highlands at Doune Castle,used in the filming of Monty Pythonand the Holy Grail, shouting from theramparts on our best John Cleesevoices: “I fart in your general direction.Your mother was a hamster and youfather smelled of elderberries.”

• At Chester Zoo, home to 7000animals, while the kids enjoyed thelions, we actually had more funwatching a schoolgirl from Rainhillgetting wedged in the Marmot Maniatunnel because of her overlargesandwich bag, prompting mournfulshouts from the darkness to herconcerned/highly amused friends,“Get Mrs Harris – I’m stook.”

• Manchester’s Museum of Science andIndustry presents kids in its brain-taxing Xperiment Gallery with theopportunity to dress up, and to lift amini with their little finger, while in thecafé next door my wife and I very muchenjoyed listening to a competitivefather informing his bored-lookingdaughter that if she could spell beefbourguignon then she could have a£3.95 kids portion.

• If all distractions in the car fail, turn upClassic FM to max volume and kidyourself you aren’t muffling the kids’din with an even louder one, but thatyou’re educating them about Haydn.

Backed by an unlikely combination ofMumsnet, John Cleese and SophieKinsella, Are We Nearly There Yet? 8000Misguided Miles Round Britain isavailable from all good bookshops andfrom Amazon for £5.

Are we nearly there yet?

Travel


Jayne Keep says: “A very witty book that youcan’t help but connect with. As Ben and his wifeDinah take their two toddlers on a 8000 mileroad trip around Britain in order to write aguidebook, we follow their rather amusingprogress. The book is all about familyrelationships; love, death and mishaps along theway interwoven with comedy and family friendlyattraction reviews. A slightly odd combinationbut it really works. Highly recommended!”

15

Travel


All aboard for summer 2012

The Alps in August

Switzerland isn’t just for skiing: in fact, the Alps can be oneof the loveliest places in Europe for a summer holiday enfamille. As well as beautiful weather, there’s a wealth ofsporty things to do for both smaller children and teenagers.Chilly Powder runs its Morzine chalet hotel through thesummer as well as the winter, offering the same attractions(professionally-cooked food, childcare etc) and with theemphasis on comfortable living alongside a wealth ofoutdoor pursuits. Morzine is an eight-hour drive fromCalais, or fly to Geneva and hire a car; the chalet has 17bedrooms and there’s even a hot tub in the garden.Perfect for: sporty families with children in differentage ranges.Midsummer prices: from around £120 per adult pernight, discount for children, half-board.Website: www.chillypowder.com

Away from the crowds in Norfolk

If you love Cornwall and Devon, but are frustrated by theprices and the crowds, why not head instead for Norfolk?Cottage prices for midsummer are cheaper, it will take youless time to get there and it’s much easier to get to andfrom the beaches and other attractions because the roadsare far less clogged. For a comfortable, child-friendlycottage look on the Recommended Family Holidays websiteunder the ‘East of England’ tab. Poppyland Cottages, forexample, have a range of properties dotted around a seriesof beautiful villages, and within easy reach of lovely BlueFlag beaches – and everything on the website has beenchecked for family-friendliness. Great pubs for lunchesand suppers out, too – and Norfolk is also a very goodoption for families who love cycling.Perfect for: Families with young children wanting toget away from the crowds.Midsummer prices: from around £21 per person, per night.Website: www.recommendedfamilyholidays.com

Camping meets boutique hotel

Molly Dishwasher isn’t just an unusual name for a holidayexperience – it’s an unusual experience, too. You stay ina shepherd’s hut nestled among acres of meadows andwoodland in deepest Sussex. A comfy double for you,bunk beds for the children, all squeezed into a small butbeautiful space with oodles of special little touches.Young children adore staying somewhere different, andthey love pulling their parents into their adventures –which is what makes Molly Dishwasher such a hit. Plusbreakfast included, a BBQ and food on hand, and loadsof places to explore in the area including Drusilla’s Zoo,Battle Abbey, Hever Castle and endless beaches.Perfect for: families with small children who want apint-sized adventure without having to travel too far.Midsummer prices: Around £20 per person per night.Website: www.mollydishwasher.com

Affordable luxury – and abroad too

Glamping is the way to go: much more reasonable pricesthan villas or hotels, and a wide range of family-friendlysites. And what’s new on the glamping block for 2012 isan ever-widening range of top-notch accommodation: for2012, Select Camp has a new range of what it’s callingits ‘lodge suites’ featuring a canopy bed, free-standingoval bath, fully-equipped kitchen, shower and toilet – anda separate junior lodge tent next to the main suite. SelectCamp also has four new sites, three in Italy and one inSpain – and coming soon, a brand new website whichshould make browsing and booking a lot easier too.Perfect for: Budget-conscious, adventurous families.Midsummer prices: from around £24 per person, per night.Website: www.selectcamp.co.uk

Hideaway in Robin Hood’s forestWhat child wouldn’t be excited to be holidaying in the centreof the wood made famous by the legendary Robin Hood?And what parent wouldn’t be happy to join them, now ForestHolidays are extending their venues to this one? The newlodges, which open this spring, will be set in the middle of3,300 acres of forest, and include basic cabins to de luxe‘golden oak plus’ cabins with their own hot tub. Loads to do forall ages – Sherwood Forest has a glorious labyrinth of cycletrails, plus farm parks, arts and craft centres and play areas.Perfect for: active families in search of a change fromCenter Parcs (and more of a bargain).Midsummer prices: From around £30 per person per night.Website: www.forestholidays.co.uk

Pamper yourself in DevonThe word ‘barton’ means ‘a small country estate’ in Devon,so head for Libbear Barton and what you’ll be buying is aslice of laid-back country high life, half an hour from thenearest beach. Libbear Barton is a 40-acre farm with fourproperties: the Georgian farmhouse (sleeping up to 14) andthree cottages. Rent one if you’re holidaying with yourimmediate family, or rent two or even all of them if you’rebringing your extended clan or another family or familiesalong (the maximum number of guests, if you take all theproperties, is 39). The whole place is kitted out with under-fives in mind, so you won’t need to worry about crammingthe car with clobber – even buggies are provided. You won’tneed to leave the farm every day, because there’s plentyto do there – an adventure playground, indoor swimmingpool, woodland and meadows, a fishing lake, games roomand loads and loads of play space. For those days whenyou do want to venture out, north Devon is teeming withfamily-friendly things to do, and the beautiful beach atBude is only 15 miles away.Perfect for: groups of families holidaying together.Midsummer prices: from £36 per person per night,based on full occupancy in July/August.More details: www.libbearbarton.co.uk

Further afield...

If you’re looking for something more exotic,recommendedfamilyhotels.com has a choice of hotelsin the Caribbean, the Indian Ocean, the Middle East andAfrica, as well as Europe – all recommended by real familieswho’ve stayed in them. Scottdunn.com, meanwhile, canhelp you craft the family holiday of a lifetime whether it’ssomewhere far-flung like Thailand or Nepal that you’re after,or luxury in the Med. Markwarner.co.uk have wonderfulfamily-friendly resorts in Corsica, Turkey, Portugal, Sardiniaand Greece – ideal destinations if you don’t want a long flight.

It’s the depths of winter, so every family’s thoughts naturally turn towhere they will be this summer. Joanna Moorhead has lots of ideas.

Poppyland Cottages

Logis la Cabane, Poitou Charente, SW France

No12152 Barlowmoor Road

West DidsburyManchester

M20 2UT

Jenni Nolan07880 795875

Design Directions offers a one room to whole property scheme. We can be involved at a variety of levels - creating sample boards, drawing-up furniture layouts,sourcing all the products and tradesmen - all within your budget. Leaving you withthe tools you need to turn your dream into reality.

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Parents’ place


I found myself in a real dilemma overWinter coats for 2011/12. As a familywe spend a lot of time outdoorsregardless of the weather so Iwanted to find coats that would keepthe kids warm, dry and moan free (oris that too much to ask from acoat??). After much research andopinion asking I placed an order withPolarn O. Pyret for their ‘Child WinterCoat’ for Lily (5) and Izzy (3).Ordering clothing for girls without

checking their opinion first is always arisky business but it appears I got it right.The bright colours really appealed tothem. These extra tough coats are windand waterproof, yet breathable and

flexible. Lily, found hers warm,comfortable and not all restrictive to playin. The cuffs feature thumb holes whichboth girls loved, although Izzy did find alittle fiddly to put on alone. The cuffs arealso adjustable, not only to keep out windand rain but also to grip a slightly longsleeve which was great for us as I boughtslightly larger sizes in the hope we couldget two Winters out of them, which withthe quality I am sure we will. The hood isfully removable and is a fabulous shapethat fits nicely so it stays up despite thewind. Reflectors feature on the back of thecoat, on the sleeves and on the hood for360 degree visibility. As well as keepingthe girls safe on the walk to school theyfound it most amusing to watch eachother glow!From a mum point of view I find these

coats easy to keep clean; my lot seem toget particularly dirty and I have been ableto easily wipe marks away, or to throwthem in the machine for a good washwithout losing any colour or shape. The Child Winter Coat is available from

www.polarnopyret.com in ages 1½years through to 12 years. In red, blue orpink. RRP £79.

Beating the Bollington Chill

Tell us a bit about yourself. I’m 37,have been married to Steve for 10 yearsand have two beautiful children Olivia, 7and Luke, 6 who attend St Philips RCSchool in Salford. This is my first yearin business and Party Sashes Galore isgoing from strength to strength. Iproduce unique, personalised sashes,banners and ribbons for any occasion. How did you get started? In myprevious job I was travelling somedistance to get to and from work andwith the school runs I was finding thatthe actual working hours were rathershort and restricted. I decided to give itgo and set up on my own where theworking day would be far more flexibleand cut out the travelling completely. Imade a decision to start a companyusing skills that I already had and moreimportantly in an industry that I enjoyed.What does the future hold for thebusiness? I hope to continue to buildthe business into an established brandand branch out into other exciting areasof personalised products in the future.

What is the best bit about what youdo? The flexibility of working fromhome is fantastic! I can pop the washingmachine on whilst downloading ordersand work in the comfort of my ownsurroundings. I am in charge of the dayand set my own targets. I love to see thelook on my customers faces when theyget a product designed especially forthem. It really adds that somethingspecial to a gift, party or event.Any bad bits? Initially I thought that Imay be a little lonely working on myown as I am a bit of a chatter box! Butthe day races by and I am speaking tointeresting customers helping designtheir personalised products and before Iknow it I am at the school gate again.How do you fit work around familylife? My working day can fit perfectlyaround the family life. I work producingpersonalised sashes, banners andribbons during the hours of the schoolday and can happily meet deadlines ofnext day deliveries and make it back toschool for the end of the day. I have notbeen late yet!! The children happily (forthe time being) come with me to thepost office to send parcels and then wego about the after school activities thatthey have always attended. As it is anonline business I can continue to fulfilorders into the evenings and weekendsif I need to.What advice would you give toother mums looking to work forthemselves? Go for it! It is the bestdecision I have made both on aprofessional and personal level. If youhave an idea or a passion, follow itthrough. It’s amazing how work canactually be fun if it is something youenjoy. It’s also nice to know your hardwork is benefitting YOU and not somebig wig business people who spend allday on the golf course!www.partysashesgalore.co.uk.

Lorna CarrollParty Sashes Galore

Mums in business

by Jayne Keep

17

Parents’ place


Freelance designer and Mum Helenis behind the Flamingos and Dominosbrand. When she was expecting baby

number one she found the unisexclothing for newborns on the highstreet to be bland and boring so sheset about designing unisex fashionwith some fun.I personally loved the designs as soon

as I looked on her website(www.flamingosanddominoes.co.uk);the designs are quite retro and colourfulwithout being overly bright and garish.Helen sent me one of her Zebra print longsleeve tops to try on Isabella (3) wholoved it. Older sister Lily (5) was a tadmiffed that the tops are only available forages 0-4 years. The material is lovely andsoft and washes well. This top will be akeeper to hand down to little brotherLogan when he is older.

Fun Unisex Fashion fromFlamingos and Dominoes

Running from Saturday 10 March toSunday 18 March (Mother’s Day), thisweek is all about mums doingsomething yummy by hosting theirown fundraising events and spending

quality time with their children,family and friends. All the moneyraised will help CLIC Sargentcontinue to provide clinical, practicaland emotional support for childrenand young people with cancer.You can hold any event you can think

of - no matter how much it raises, everypenny counts! The most popular eventsare afternoon teas and cake sales,pamper parties, nearly new sales -anything goes! It can be as simple asinviting your mum and friends to comeround for a coffee morning for a smalldonation, or as extravagant as gettingtogether with the girls to organise aYummy Mummy party because you alldeserve some fun! For moreinformation, go towww.yummymummy.org.uk.

Yummy Mummy Week 2012

A new report recently published byUK charity MobileWise warns thatchildren’s health is being jeopardised

by the failure of Government and phonecompanies to respond to the growingbody of evidence linking mobilephone use with health hazards. The new report Mobile phone health

risks: the case for action to protectchildren brings together, for the first time,more than 200 peer-reviewed studiesfrom a range of research institutions thatlink mobiles to serious health problems.Endorsed by a number of eminent doctorsand scientists, the report highlights thegrowing and substantial body of evidencethat has been obscured in the debate overthese risks. Find the report atwww.familiesonline.co.uk/EMRresourcepage and read simple tipsto protect your family atwww.familiesonline.co.uk/EMRsafety.

Call to protect children from thehealth risks of mobile phones As mummies we often see adverts

for baby fairs and expos – many ofus will have attended them. MummyFever events are like these but with atwist... these events are all aboutmummies – whether that is makinglife easier for us or just making usfeel better about ourselves. All events are family friendly, their goal

being to create Mummy-focused eventswhich have enough to occupy the littleones. They are launching a number ofMummy Fever events during 2012 andwould love for you to join them.

Date: Friday 17th February 2012Venue: Theatre Clwyd, Mold, FlintshireTime: 10.30-13.30 (Set up 10.00 andclose at 14.00)Trade stands: £30 (includes fullpromotional package)

Entry prices: Adults £2.00 (inadvance), £3.00 (on the day); Under5’s Free; Concesssions £1.50

Date: Saturday 3rd March 2012Venue:Woodhouse Park LifestyleCentre, Portway (at the junction withSelstead Road), Wythenshawe, M22 1QWTime: 10.00-13.00 (Set up 09.00)Trade stands: £30 (includes fullpromotional package) Entry prices: Adults £2.00 (inadvance), £3.00 (on the day); Under5’s Free; Concesssions £1.50

For more information, call Charlotte on07762 798 008 or [email protected]. Or go towww.mummyfever.co.uk.

Mummy Fever – events for mummies

I never had a need to use a setof reins or similar on the

girls as they were never‘runners’. Logan (18months) is anothermatter so I was verypleased to receive anAnimal Toddler Daysack

(complete with safety rein)from Littlelife to try out.

Logan really enjoys filling his bag for a trip out,usually with a mini board book, a toy car or two andsome snacks. The bag is big enough to carry a few bitsand bobs and still be compact and light enough for a

toddler to carry. The shoulder straps are comfy andpadded, plus the chest strap keeps the bag firmly inplace. The fun ladybird design is bright and colourfulwhich appeals to Logan and his big sister Izzy (3) whowould happily claim it as her own. For me as mum the biggest appeal is the removable

safety rein so I know I can hang on to him if need be.Logan is not very tolerant of restraint so this subtlestrap works well for him. The only downside is that Idon’t feel as secure with the strap as opposed to reinswhen walking by a busy road until he is a little olderand more steady on his feet.The Littlelife Animal Toddler Daysack comes in a

wide range of designs. Suitable from 6 months to 3years. For more information visit www.littlelife.co.uk.

Logan LOVES Littlelife

by Jayne Keep

by Jayne Keep


Parties

Personalise and create exclusive sashes and bannersto announce your exciting occasion and stunningunique ribbons to make a statement with your gift. Party Sashes Galore are UK specialists in making your

party or event a memorable one. They’re there to help youpersonalise for ANY occasion and provide a stunning rangeof superb quality custom made satin sashes, banners andribbons JUST FOR YOU to create a lasting impression. Whynot become a designer and create a funky, stylish, quirky,professional or corporate feel to your event?With Party Sashes Galore you can create that perfect

finishing touch for every occasion. You can customise yourribbons using their personalisation tool and see what yourribbon will look like before buying. Change ribbon colours,text and images until you are happy with your design. Party Sashes Galore allows you to personalise your

ribbons to offer maximum impact for your announcements,celebrations and promotional events. Make your personalisedannouncement in style!Contact Lorna on 0161 798 6245 or email

[email protected].

Welcome to PartySashes Galore

Imagine opening the door on your birthday to findRapunzel on your front step. That’s what happenedto 6 year old Lily Allen from Bramhope. She hada visit from the latest Disney princess thanks tothe wonderful Make a Wish Entertainment. “I wanted to give Lily a party that was different and

personal,” says Sally Allen, Lily’s mum. “I couldn’t have askedfor a more perfect party. The 10 children were mesmerizedfor an hour and a half. I forgot they were in the house!”

The Rapunzel party is the latest magicalcelebration from the imagination of Suzanne KayeVaughan of Make a Wish Entertainment. She and herteam transform into the character your child wants attheir party. Be it Belle and her Beast, or Buzz Lightyearand Jessie, Alice and the Mad Hatter, Make a WishEntertainment will make those wishes come true.“With the Rapunzel party, we can bring along Flynn

to carry out some combat training with any boyguests,” explains Suzanne from Make a Wish. “It’s aboutusing our imagination to create a magical party.”And Lily believes there was some magic at her party

that day. She made flowers with Rapunzel, playedgames and shared her birthday with her Disney heroineand her friends. “As far as Lily is concerned, Rapunzel came to her

house,” says Sally. “I wanted to cry because she wascompletely in awe of her. Giving her that experiencewas truly magic.”Take a look at the full range of Make a Wish Character

Parties at www.makeawishentertainment.co.uk.01924 281365.

Imagine you’re ... a Princess

Deluxe Animal Encounter Parties & Visits

Once Upon A Critter

For children who love all creatures great ‘n’ smallAnimal Encounters • Action Packed Games Craft Activities • Themed Decor & much more

07575 971375 www.onceuponacritter.co.uk

19

Parties


For Isabella’s 3rd birthday party Ichose to shy away from the task ofentertaining tots and called on Nualafrom Kiddiewinks to do the job, andwhat a job she did. I had meet Nualapreviously at some social events andfound her so fun and full of energythat I was confident she would be abrilliant entertainer and I was right. The party was a real whirlwind of

activity to a soundtrack of lively music.The children followed Nula’s lead with ahuge variety of toys including pom-poms,hoola-hoops, bouncy dogs, musicalinstruments, magic wands, monkeys andmore. The variety of games was amazing

as she worked in the traditional stuff likepass the parcel and music bumps withpretend play and tricks. All of the childrenhad a wonderful time and Izzy loved everyminute of her special day.As a mum I found Kiddiewinks lovely

to work with; Nuala spoke to me in depthbefore the party so she knew what Izzywould enjoy. We were provided withinvitations and personalised thank youcards which took a job off my list. PlusNuala even supplied presents for the partygames. Highly recommended! For more information on the full range of

Kiddiewinks parties call 0161 432 3624or visit www.kiddiewinksonline.com.

Party fun withKiddiewinks

If you have a child who is potty aboutponies or raves about reptiles and wouldlike either a pony party or animalencounter with a difference, thenOnce Upon A Pony & Co./Once UponA Critter may just have the answer.From pretty ponies to creepy critters there

is something for everyone and parties/visitscome under the following categories - PonyParty, Creepy Critter or General AnimalEncounters and content is themed accordingly.Whilst available for ‘Meet & Greet’ style

parties/visits where children get the chanceto interact, learn all about and hold some ofthe animals, Once Upon A Pony & Co./Once Upon A Critter specialize in creatingdeluxe parties/visits which combine a fantasticanimal encounter experience with a greatrange of action packed games and/or craftsrolling several entertainment options into onebumper fun package. Your venue can also betransformed into the perfect party backdropwith jungle explorer style theme and photoshoot backdrop for animal encounters or

pretty fabric bunting, bay trees, floral garlands,bubble machine etc for pony parties (unlessyou have a budding cowboy then the westernstyle is for you!) All parties/visits are tailoredto suit individual personal requirements, andare hosted by a qualified early yearspractitioner so you can rest assured that anattentive fun approach is given to every booking.For more information on the range of services

available visit www.onceuponapony.co.ukand www.onceuponacritter.co.uk orcall 07575 971375.

Great news for all parents of animal mad children

by Jayne Keep


What’s onSat 21 JanTottington LibraryTottington Wildlife Group (Twigs)Learn about wildlife and your localenvironment! Ages 8 – 13. Youngerchildren can attend with their parents. £1 per child. 2 – 3.30pmBooking essential: 01204 883 889

Sat 21 & Sun 22 JanEast Lancashire Railway, BuryWinter Steam galaAn all steam timetable, promising anostalgic and memorable experience forenthusiasts and newcomers alike.10am – 5pm0161 764 7790 /www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Sun 22, Fri 27 & Sun 29 JanImperial War MuseumWhat a Performance: Instruments of Song Klezmer, Greek and east Europeanmelodies performed by Manchester duoThe Deli Babies to mark HolocaustMemorial Day.12.15 and 3.15pm. Ideal for all ageswww.iwm.org.uk

ActivitiesFri 13 & Sat 14 JanManchester Art GalleryMini Art Club10.15 – 11.15am / 11.30am – 12.30pmFree Sensory play for you and yourbaby/toddler with a different theme eachmonth. Booking essential (from one weekbefore the event)0161 235 8888 /www.manchestergalleries.org

Sat 14 & Sun 15 JanManchester Art GalleryImagine Weekend12 noon – 4pmFree drop-in creative play for all ages.Experiment and play with the material ofthe month. 0161 235 8888 /www.manchestergalleries.org

Sun 15 JanPeel Moat/Target Fitness LeisureCentre, Heaton MoorKids Car Boot & Swap Shop10am – 12pm. Table costs £10 Entrance 50p07748 601248 /www.kidscarbootandswapshop.co.uk

Tues 31 JanPeople’s History MuseumThe Little PHM – Mr Ordinary’s Prize11am – 12 noon£1 per child, adults freeUnder 5s, Booking essential0161 838 9190 / www.phm.org.uk

Wed 1 Feb Stockport Air Raid SheltersExplorer TourEvening Tour of Stockport Air Raid Shelters,including areas not seen on the public tour.You will be given the opportunity to see theextent of Stockport’s Air Raid preparations7.00pm Age 10+ and adultsBooking essential0161 474 1940 /www.airraidshelters.org.uk

Sat 4 FebManchester Art GalleryFamily Art Club1 – 3pmSpend quality time together as a familyand learn new art skills. FREE – but arrive early as places are limited0161 235 8888 /www.manchestergalleries.org

Sun 5 FebThe Kingsway School (lower site),CheadleKids Car Boot & Swap Shop10am – 12pm, Table costs £10Entrance 50p07748 601248 /www.kidscarbootandswapshop.co.uk

Fri 10 & Sat 11 FebManchester Art GalleryMini Art Club10.15 – 11.15am / 11.30am – 12.30pmFree Sensory play for you and yourbaby/toddler with a different theme eachmonth. Booking essential (from one weekbefore the event)0161 235 8888 /www.manchestergalleries.org

Sat 11 FebGlo Family, CheadleValentines Craft Workshop1pm0844 504 7465 / www.glofamily.com

Sat 11 & Sun 12 FebManchester Art GalleryImagine Weekend12 noon – 4pmFree drop-in creative play for all ages.Experiment and play with the material ofthe month. 0161 235 8888 /www.manchestergalleries.org

Sat 28 JanManchester MuseumBig Saturday: Bug Art11am-4pm Make your own bug art inspired by theMuseum’s bug collection. Most activitiesare free and drop-in but some may needto be booked on the day and may cost upto £1.50. All ages.0161 235 8888 /www.manchestergalleries.org

Hollingworth Lake Visitor Centre,RochdaleRSPB Stall & Big Garden Birdwatch11am – 4pmFind out everything you wanted to knowabout birds and the best places to hearand see them. Then have a go at spottingsome birds as part of the RSPB’s annualBig Garden Birdwatch at 2.00pm.01706 373421 / www.rochdale.gov.uk

Sun 29 JanThe LowryFree Family SundayDiscover free fun art and drama activitiesin the Galleries inspired by the currentexhibitions. Ages 5 – 12. 11am – 3pm0843 208 6005 / www.thelowry.com

electric go karts

home cooked food

winter heating

excellent party options available

Open: Mon-Fri 9:30am-7pm Sat & Sun 9:30am-6pm

Weekly Activities:Toddler Mornings - Wed & Thur 10-11:30 amBaby Boppers - Mondays 1:45-2:30pm

Children's Indoor Play Centre

1 minute from the Trafford Centre

0161 872 9434 www.landofplay.co.uk

•

Offer:Please bring this coupon for 1 FREE child’s ENTRY for 90 minutes playtime(Mon-FriOffer expires 31 March 2012.

term time

•••

only).

• Birthday Parties• Kids Clubs• Family Taster Sessions• Groups welcome

Quote FAMILIES to get 10% off any booking with this advert.

0161 230 7006, www.manchesterclimbingcentre.com, [email protected]

The North-West's Premier Climbing Venue.


What’s onGeorge H Carnall Leisure Centre,Kingsway Park M41 7FJGo Kiddy Karts Multi Activity Fun Day10am – 4pm£6.00 entry per child covers all activities(under 3 free)Adults pay per ride, no entry feeNo need to book, Ages 3 - 14Go Karts, BodyZorbs, Dance Mats,Inflatables, Trampolines, Giant Games,Whizz Wheels, Holistic therapies for adults07956 557653 / www.go-kiddy-karts.co.uk

People’s History MuseumPoster PowerGet creative with printing1.30 – 3.30pmFree event for all ages. No booking required.0161 838 9190 / www.phm.org.uk

Bury Transport MuseumCraft Workshop11am – 3pmStandard museum admission plus £1.00 per child.0161 763 7949 /www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk/burytransportmuseum

Churnet Valley RailwayDay out with ThomasPre-booking essential01538 758491 / www.churnet-valley-railway.co.uk

Stockport Air Raid SheltersChildren’s Explorer TovurExciting children’s version of the everpopular Explorer Tours. Brave thedarkened tunnels as you go back in timeand experience the life of a child duringthe war. 6.45pm – 8.00pmAge 7+ (must be accompanied by an adult)Booking essential0161 474 1940 /www.airraidshelters.org.uk

Tues 14 & Wed 15 FebTatton ParkDeer Feed and Trailer RideTake a trailer ride with the rangers towatch the daily deer feed. Get a closelook at hundreds of deer feeding in theirbeautiful natural setting. 9.30am to10.30am. £5 adult, £3 child01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Tues 14 – Thurs 16 FebThe Lowry (The Studio)Drama Zone: Billy Goats, Wolves & BearsCreate a story using some classic animalcharacters from children’s stories in this funsession for the whole family. Packed full ofdrama games and role play, see if you cancreate a brand new story. Limited placesavailable. 11am – 12.30pm0843 208 6005 / www.thelowry.com

Hatworks, StockportFun with FeathersHave fun with feathers and see if this craftsession tickles your fancy! 10.30am – 12.00 and 1.00pm – 2.30pmAges 5 – 11 Limited places – booking essential0161 355 7770 / www.hatworks.org.uk

Tues 14 – Fri 17 FebManchester Art GallerySurprise! Surprise!1.00pm - 3.00pmWatch unexpected patterns appear as youexplore surfaces and textures around thegallery with magic rubbings. Then playwith paints in our studio to transform yourpatterns into beautiful pictures to takehome. Suitable for all ages. Free, drop infamily event. Sign in from 12:30pm0161 235 8888 /www.manchestergalleries.org

Wed 15 FebGlo Family, CheadleMum & Baby Yoga – FREE TASTER 9.30 – 10.15am0844 504 7465 / www.glofamily.com

Bijou Club, Manchester M3 7NJBaby Loves Disco Valentines Party6 months to 7 years (must be accompaniedby an adult) 2pm – 5pmwww.babylovesdisco.co.uk

Mon 13 FebGlo Family, CheadleValentines Craft Workshop12 noon - 1pm 0844 504 7465 / www.glofamily.com

Mon 13 – Fri 17 FebGlo Family, CheadleValentines Movie Week2pmIncludes a heart shaped treat!0844 504 7465 / www.glofamily.com

The Lowry (The Studio)Art Zone: The Big Top11am – 12.30Roll up, roll up and join us to create thegreatest show on earth by making amagnificent mobile inspired by the colourfulsights and sounds of the circus. Limitedplaces available.0843 208 6005 / www.thelowry.com

Tues 14 FebGlo Family, CheadleToddler Time Valentines Day Party10amValentines Make & Bake Workshop 1pm0844 504 7465 / www.glofamily.com

People’s History MuseumLiving History – Pauly’s WarLearn more about life during The Blitz1.15 – 2pm, Free Family friendly activityfor 7+, No booking required.0161 838 9190 / www.phm.org.uk

Churnet Valley RailwayDay out with ThomasPre-booking essential01538 758491 / www.churnet-valley-railway.co.uk

Sat 11 – Sat 18 FebTouchstones, RochdaleHoliday QuizFree event suitable for age 5 – 12. Drop induring normal opening hours.www.link4life.org

Sat 11 – Sun 19 FebPeople’s History MuseumRadical Craft Table10 am – 5pmFree family friendly activity suitable for allages. Booking not required.0161 838 9190 / www.phm.org.uk

Tatton Park Scarecrow FestivalVisit Tatton’s Scarecrow Festival in theGardens and at the Farm this spring half-term. Over 30 scarecrows will be resident inthe Gardens. Find the farmyard scarecrowsand have a go at making your own. ClosedMonday. Normal opening times andprices apply. 01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Sun 12 FebRamsbottom Civic HallRamsbottom farmers’ marketA vibrant market featuring more than 25stalls bringing together farmers andproducers from all over the North West.A vast array of foods and handmadecrafts are available.0161 253 5111 / www.ramsbottom.net

Sale High SchoolKids Car Boot & Swap Shop10am – 12pm, Table costs £10 Entrance 50p07748 601248 /www.kidscarbootandswapshop.co.uk

These listings are for guidance only – please check before you goTo include your upcoming event in our listings, email [email protected]


What’s onThurs 16 FebGlo Family, CheadleValentines Craft Workshop – hosted byThe Creation Station 10 – 11am0844 504 7465 / www.glofamily.com

Fri 17 Feb Longfield Suite, Prestwich Town CentreNational Festival Circus12 noon – 4pm0161 253 7227

Touchstones, RochdaleWhat did the Romans Laugh At?2 – 3.30pmFree, but booking required. For ages 10-16.Unaccompanied children must bring acompleted parental consent form issuedon booking.01706 924492 / www.link4life.org

Sat 18 Feb Tottington LibraryTottington Wildlife Group (Twigs)Learn about wildlife and your localenvironment! Ages 8 - 13. Youngerchildren can attend with their parents. £1per child. 2 – 3.30pmBooking essential: 01204 883889

Sat 18 & Sun 19 Feb Churnet Valley RailwayDay out with ThomasPre-booking essential01538 758491 / www.churnet-valley-railway.co.uk

Mon 20 – Fri 24 Feb The Lowry (The Studio)Art Zone: The Big Top11am – 12.30Roll up, roll up and join us to create thegreatest show on earth by making amagnificent mobile inspired by thecolourful sights and sounds of the circus.Limited places available.0843 208 6005 / www.thelowry.com

Tues 21 – Thurs 23 FebThe Lowry (The Studio)Drama Zone: Billy Goats, Wolves & BearsCreate a story using some classic animalcharacters from children’s stories in this funsession for the whole family. Packed full ofdrama games and role play, see if you cancreate a brand new story. Limited placesavailable. 11am – 12.30pm0843 208 6005 / www.thelowry.com

Advertise in FamiliesManchester

Call Jayne on: 01625 801801 or [email protected]


What’s onFrom Sat 25 Feb throughout the yearLyme ParkLyme, the End of a Golden EraEver visited a country house and wantedthe freedom to explore, play the piano,take part in a theatrical, dress up or havetea on the lawn? During 2012 you can.Look out for Edwardian Apprenticeactivities throughout the year. 11am – 5pm01663 762023 /www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Sun 26 FebThe LowryFree Family SundayDiscover free fun art and drama activitiesin the Galleries inspired by the currentexhibitions. Ages 5 – 12.11am – 3pm0843 208 6005 / www.thelowry.com

People’s History MuseumClarion Cycling Club and FamilyFriendly RidesFree guided family cycle rides from Boltonand Stockport, both arriving at the museum.The Clarion Cycling Club will arrive on theirpenny farthings and vintage cycles. Explorethe museum displays of Clarion materialfrom their collections, followed by a guidedfamily cycle ride with the club riders to theWorking Class Movement Library where theywill treat you to a Clarion tea! Suitable forall ages. See website for meeting information.0161 838 9190 / www.phm.org.uk

Tues 28 FebPeople’s History MuseumThe Little PHM – Beeing SpecialEspecially for little ones11am – 12 noon£1 per child, adults freeFun interactive story session withpuppets, song, dance and a craft activityfor under 5s.Booking essential.0161 838 9190 / www.phm.org.uk

Family ShowsFri 13 – Sun 15 Jan & Wed 18 – Sun 22 JanWaterside Arts Centre, SaleCinderellaA traditional pantomime with a moderntwist for all the family.0161 912 5616 /www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Joseph at The Lowry

Tues 10 – Sun 15 JanThe LowryJoseph and the Amazing TechnicolorDreamcoatKeith Jack, the hugely popular runner-upwho finished just a hair’s breadth behindwinner Lee Mead in hit BBC series AnyDream Will Do, takes on the title role,having won the hearts of the nation withhis sparkling charisma and sensationalsinging voice.0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Sun 15 JanMiddleton Arena, RochdaleGoldilocks and The Three Bears07725 620 228www.jstar-academy.co.uk /www.link4life.org

Sat 21 JanStockport PlazaChinese New Year ExtravaganzaFeaturing internationally acclaimed acrobattroupes from Chengdu, China – the home ofthe panda. The ‘costumed’ acrobatic pandasand the mighty dragon dance add charmand dynamics to the show, which is packedfull of fun and excitement and is perfect forall ages!0161 477 7779 /www.stockportplaza.co.uk

Tue 24 Jan - Sat 28 JanThe LowryBeauty and the BeastA towering gothic fairytale performed by theBirmingham Royal Ballet.0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Sun 29 JanThe LowryRed Riding Hood’s Magic PurseA classic story told with a difference. Findout how Red Riding Hood’s Magic Pursesaves the day in this delightful show toldusing rod-glove puppets, shadow theatre,original music and songs.Ages 3 – 7

Beowulf – The Dragon SlayerTold with beautifully carved wooden puppets,this is the classic story of Beowulf, whocrosses land and sea to find adventureand fame, meets monsters and a dragon.Age 7+0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Tue 31 JanThe LowryBeauty and the Beast ballet repertoireworkshopA chance to improve your ballet techniqueand learn extracts from David Bintley’smagical production of Beauty and the Beast.There will be a small sharing at the end ofeach class to parents. An opportunity notto be missed!4.00-5.00pm Grade 2-3 (Approx age 8-10)*£12.00,5.15-6.30pm Grade 4-5/ Inter foundation(Approx age 11-13)* £15.00 *or equivalent levelApplication forms at www.thelowry.comor contact Jenny Murphy [email protected]

Sat 4 FebBury MetA Bird in your EarWizards, witches and magical animalsjoin boys and girls like you on crazyquests and wacky adventures. This insightinto the world of the modern child'simagination - from helpful gazelles todragon poo - is a treat for the wholefamily. Ages 3 - 11.0161 761 2216 / www.themet.biz

Wed 25 JanThe LowryBeauty and the Beast ballet repertoireworkshopA chance to improve your ballet techniqueand learn extracts from David Bintley’smagical production of Beauty and the Beast.There will be a small sharing at the end ofeach class to parents. An opportunity notto be missed!4.15-6.00pmIntermediate / Advanced (14+)*£18.00 *or equivalent levelApplication forms at www.thelowry.comor contact Jenny Murphy [email protected]

Wed 25 Jan – Sat 10 MarPalace Theatre, ManchesterOliver! Starring Neil Morrissey as Fagin. Bringingvividly to life Dicken’s timeless characterswith its ever-popular story of the boy whoasked for more. 0844 871 3019 /www.palaceandoperahouse.org.uk

Sat 28 JanBury MetHulluba Lulu Entertaining, hilarious and poignant, thisbeautiful show from Thingumajig featuresexquisite puppetry, live music and songs.For ages 5+.0161 761 2216 / www.themet.biz

Bolton OctagonThe Wind in the WillowsAll of your favourite characters will bringthe classic story of The Wind in theWillows to life; mess about in boats,adventure and escapades - not to bemissed! Age 4+ 01204 520661 /www.octagonbolton.co.uk

These listings are for guidance only – please check before you goTo include your upcoming event in our listings, email [email protected]


What’s onSun 12 FebStockport PlazaSesame Street Live - Elmo Makes MusicYour family’s favourite Sesame Streetfriends are taking to the stage to sharetheir love of music. “Big Bird “tweets”,Oscar the Grouch’s stomping trash canlids, Cookie Monster’s crumbling cookiejars and more become instruments ofbeautiful music and noisy fun! 0161 477 7779 /www.stockportplaza.co.uk

Tues 14 Feb Waterside Arts Centre, SaleThe Owl and the PussycatEnjoy this absurd hogwash of nonsensefeaturing silly songs, babbling puppetsand smaller than life characters. Puppetry,live music and beautiful storytelling for 3-7 year olds and their families. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a specialFamily Club session before theperformance from 12.30pm – 2.30pm.0161 912 5616 /www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Bury MetRed Riding HoodHorse + Bamboo present a gorgeouslyrendered re-telling of the classic girl-and-the-wolf tale.Ideal age 4+.0161 761 2216 / www.themet.biz

Waterside Arts Centre, SaleThe Emperor’s New ClothesHilarious happenings, fantastic fooling,giggle until your tummy hurts! The Emperor’sNew Clothes is performed with puppets,masks and original music. Age 3+0161 912 5616 /www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Sat 4 & Sun 5 FebStockport PlazaChinese New Year ExtravaganzaFeaturing internationally acclaimed acrobattroupes from Chengdu, China – the homeof the panda. The ‘costumed’ acrobaticpandas and the mighty dragon dance addcharm and dynamics to the show, whichis packed full of fun and excitement andperfect for all ages!0161 477 7779 /www.stockportplaza.co.uk

Sat 11 FebBolton OctagonThe Lion’s KingdomThe Lion wants to invite you to celebratewith him. He’s about to be made King of theLion Kingdom. Come to the party in theJungle! He’s got many friends that he’dlike you to meet. Take part in the funjourney as the tale unfolds – puppets,water and surprises galore! Ages 3 - 8.01204 520661 /www.octagonbolton.co.uk

Mon 20 – Wed 22 FebManchester Opera HouseGeorge’s Marvellous MedicineRoald Dahl’s amazing story about a youngboy who makes a marvellous new medicineto cure his Grandmother of her terrifyingtemper. When she drinks his special newpotion incredible things start to happen.0844 871 3018 /www.palaceandoperahouse.org.uk

Tues 21 – Sat 25 FebThe LowryThe King and IOne of the greatest musicals of all timeand this production is a lavish, grandscale spectacle. With giant gold Buddhas,sumptuous costumes, a chorus ofadorable children, acrobatic dancers andlive music this beautiful productionguarantees standing ovations.0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Sat 25 FebWaterside Arts Centre, SaleMuttnik – the first dog in spaceYou can teach an old dog new tricks! Arefreshing slant on what happened to Laika,the dog sent into space aboard the RussianSputnik 2 rocket in 1957. Told with dance,music and puppetry, this enchanting tale feedsthe imagination and is suitable for age 3+.0161 912 5616 /www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Wed 15 & Thurs 16 FebManchester Opera HousePeppa PigPeppa and George are up to fun and gameson a day out on Grandad Dog’s boat. Helpthem, with Pedro Pony, Polly Parrot andZoe Zebra to follow the clues and find theirtreasure as they all enjoy a day of adventure.0844 871 3018 /www.palaceandoperahouse.org.uk

Thurs 16 FebBury MetThe Owl who was Afraid of the DarkAn irresistible blend of live music, puppetryand storytelling. Come join us – it’s goingto be a hoot! Ages 3-7.0161 761 2216 / www.themet.biz

Waterside Arts Centre, SaleVampiratesBased on the award-winning novels byJustin Somper. Age 9+0161 912 5616 /www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Fri 17 – Sun 19 FebThe LowryChinese State CircusMarvel as the world’s greatest acrobatsjoin forces with the undisputed masters ofmartial arts, stretching the limits ofhuman achievement. 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

families manchester issue 31 jan-feb 2012

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