toddle about warwickshire summer 2011

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Groups & Classes from page 23 in the Daily Activity Planner

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What’s New? 4-5Shop About 6-7All About Baby Signing 9Toddle Models 10-11

Cranial Osteopathy 13Reader Recommends 14Controversy Corner 17Special Offers 20

Daily Activity Planner 23Directory 33Out & About 38

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

Contents

Family picture courtesy of M

ango Pictures

8,000 copies of Toddle About are distributed every quarter around South Warwick-shire.

Hello!

Watch out for the symbol on adverts - it tells you who has a special offer in our centre pages.

S

And welcome to the Summer issue of Toddle About!As ever, we’re trying some new things for you in this edition of Toddle About that we hope you’ll like and we’re keen to hear what you think...

First thing is a brand new feature called Reader Recommendations. Fol-lowing feedback from our recent survey, you can now read about some child-friendly places to eat on p. 14 - 15 - as recommended by you! And there is a chance for you to get recommending yourself (and win some prizes in the process!)

Secondly, you will see some odd-looking barcodes in this issue, like this one (right). They are called QR codes and we hope they will make your reading experience more useful, engaging and fun!

QR codes can be scanned by most smart phones with the use of a free app, and they allow us to link you effortlessly from content in the magazine to further information, videos, offers and more on the web via your phone.

You can download a free QR scanner app from your phone’s app store, or alternatively visit getreader.com to find an app that works on your phone. Done that? Now try your new scanner out on the QR code above! It will take you to our Facebook page where you can ‘like’ us to be the first to hear all the local baby and toddler news.

Thank you for reading!

This furry little fella is Charlie! He’s hiding all over the magazine - why not see if your little one can find him while you read?Charlie’s been busy

collecting news of loads of things that are on for little ones this Summer - and there’s some great things going on so you needn’t get bored! See pages 4 - 5.We’d like to say a big thank you to PixiFoto in Leamington Spa for once again providing the beautiful picture on our front cover. And don’t forget! Everything you read in Toddle About and more is available on our website. We hope to see you there:

www.toddleabout.co.ukContact us on 0845 643 2483, or [email protected]

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

PS. Don’t forget! You can subscribe to Toddle About com-pletely for FREE at www.toddleabout.co.uk/subscribe and we’ll post a copy to your door every quarter.

Tim & Ruth

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What’s New?Take a Warwickshire

At the Belgrade Theatre, CoventryThe Numberjacks On Stage

Tuesday 18th to Saturday 22nd OctoberSee inside front cover & read more on p.38

The Pregnancy, Birth & Baby ShowSat 24th Sept: 10am - 4pm @ Leamington Spa Town Hall

See advert on p.19 and read more on p. 38

New Music Together ClassesMusic Together, an early childhood music programme for 0-5 year olds which is very popular in the US and many other countries around the world, now also offer music classes in Kenilworth. The Music Together philosophy is based on the recognition that all children are musical and that they can learn to sing in tune, keep a beat, and participate with confidence, provided that their early environment supports such learning. Guided by a registered Music Together teacher and with the participa-tion of parents and caregivers, Music Together introduces children to the pleasures of real music experiences and music making instead of passively receiving it from CDs or TV. The Music Together song collection contains unique songs that are musically rich and include a wide variety of meters and tonalities. Classes are mixed age, and each term families get a song book and CDs to enjoy at home. Use the voucher in Toddle About to claim a free taster CD and 2 free trial sessions. Classes run on Thursday and Saturday mornings in Kenilworth. See p. 30

Dandy Development- New baby and toddler classesThere is a new and refreshing take on baby and toddler classes coming to Leam-ington, Southam, Warwick and Offchurch! Nikki Sayers, local mum and qualified teacher, started Dandy Development to provide fun and stimulating classes that help with language and communication development. Dandy Develop-ment uses simple signing and speech and language techniques to support and encourage communication, pre-literacy skills, build confidence, and aid social and emotional development. The classes have two stages and are for every child from 4 months to 2½ years who loves fun, music, instru-

ments and games - and for every parent who seeks to support their child’s development. Classes are enhanced by their mascot, DandyLion, as well as unique Dandy Development songs, well known nursery rhymes, stunning sensory parachute hoops, bubbles, books and carefully selected toys. Classes are not only a fun learning and development opportunity, they also provide precious bonding time between child and parent/carer: to enjoy smiles, giggles and cuddles. See p.28 and use voucher in centre pages to claim free taster sessions.

New Leamington Spa Class for Little SplashersSwimming is such a rewarding and fun activity to learn together from an early age. Little Splashers are pleased to announce NEW Leamington Spa lessons on Thursday mornings in September. For Toddle About readers they

will be offering free taster ses-sions on selected days over the Autumn. Keep in touch with Little Splashers via their web site www.littlesplashers.co.uk. See p.23 and voucher in centre pages.


New Boogie & Bounce ClassesFollowing massive success in nurseries and Sure Start centres, LoveBallet are making their Boogie & Bounce classes available to all! For children 18 mths upwards, the classes involve basic rhythm, music, dance and gymnastics. The classes are great fun and the perfect way to introduce your child to dance at a young age. Use the voucher in centre pages for a free trial! See p.27Tuesdays, 1:30pm - 2:30pm, Harbury Village HallWednesdays 11:00am – 12:00pm The Grange Hall, SouthamWednesdays, 1:30pm - 2:30pm, Boddington Village Hall

LoveBallet Summer SchoolFor 6 yrs+ to learn exciting fun dance styles and perform in a show for parents. 27th + 28th July at The Grange Hall in Southam. £35 both days. Contact Lorraine for more info on 07711 010404- see p.27

Summer is a wonderful time of year, but it’s also the time when a lot of groups and classes STOP. And you can be forgiven for thinking that everything stops - but it doesn’t! This August, you can still enjoy classes with:Tumble Tots in Rugby (p.30): as normalLittle Kickers in Rugby (p.25): as normalGo 4 Goals (p.29): Holiday Camps running in August (see box). Little Splashers (p.23) 4-week summer school runs at usual times: a great swimming crash course.Musical abc (p.32): Music sessions run for 1st two weeks of AugustSing & Sign (p.16): Summer Stay & Play sessions running in August with Sing & Sign session at the end. Call for details.LoveBallet Dance Classes (p.27)- Sum-mer School runs at the end of July (see box).Music Together Kenilworth (p.30): Music sessions run through July and August, though not in the first week of August.There are hundreds more groups in the Daily Activty Planner from p.21, though many do stop during August so we recommend calling before attending any group in Summer.

Classes Still Running This Summer!

Go 4 Goals Holiday CampsThe popular Go 4 Goals Holiday Camps are back this Summer, with 4-day football courses running from 1st - 4th and 8th - 11th August at Leamington RFC on Kenilworth Rd, Leamington Spa and from 15th - 18th August at Alveston Primary School in Tiddington, near Stratford.The courses are for children aged 4 - 11 years and are packed full of football fun with small-sided tourna-ments, penalty shoot outs, team circuits, football quizzes, skills training, soccer tennis and much more! Each day runs from 9:30am - 3:30pm (with early drop off from 8:45) and costs £15 per day or £50 for all four days

- extra siblings go for half price. Contact Jason for more info on 07747 562469. See p. 29.

Paint & Glaze Open DaysPaint & Glaze are out and about again this Summer, run-ning their open day events so you can drop in and see them for a spot of pottery painting, or hand and foot prints for the littlies at: (See p.35)Blooms Rugby Garden Centre, Bourton-on-Dunsmore on:Sunday 17th July - 11:00 - 15:00, andRugby Art Gallery and Museum on:Fri 29th & Sat 30th July - 10:30 - 12:30 Fri 26th & Sat 27th Aug - 10:30 - 12:30

Lamaze Birthing ClassesRugby-based doula and mum Fay Thomson is now the 5th birthing practitioner in the UK to qualify as a Lamaze teacher. Offering birth and early parenting classes, Lamaze promotes a natural, safe and healthy approach to preg-nancy, birth and parenting. Practices are based on the best, most current medical evidence available and can help reduce unnecessary interventions. Lamaze educators have already helped millions of pregnant women to achieve their desired childbirth outcomes. See p.23

Butterflies & DinosaursIf you’re looking for a gift for a mum-to-be or a new baby, or you want to find something different and more thoughtful for a christening or birthday present, then check out this brand new online boutique! Fully customisable gift box options also available. Use code for a special 15% discount for Toddle About readers! www.butterfliesanddinosaurs.co.uk. See back cover.

Baby & Toddler Must-Haves

We think the Cushi Tush baby seat is just fantastic! It is a light-weight, paediatrician approved, floor based baby seat, ideal for

feeding and play time - and it’s so light, it’s great for trips away and picnics at the park.

Having had trouble with our babies arching their back to get out of other baby seats, we were hesitant to invest in another but we’re so glad we did - the Cushi Tush is infinitely more comfortable for babies with full back and leg support and comes with a removable tray which is dishwasher safe.

Complete with tray, the Cushi Tush is available to buy online from www.cushitush.co.uk. RRP £34.99, Toddle About readers can pick one for just £28 using code CushiTA28.

Read our full review of the Cushi Tush at www.toddleabout.co.uk/articles/reviews

Stokke Xplory PushchairThis has to be one of the most versatile pushchairs we have seen. The unique award-winning design enables your child not only to face you but also be high enough up

to facilitate great eye contact and interaction and to give them a fantastic view – much more fun than being stuck at knee level! The seat easily reclines allowing your child to

sleep comfortably and it can also be forward or rear facing. The height of the seat unit ad-justs as your child grows, making it a great high-chair when you’re out and about. Just put it

in the upright position and slide the handle down and your child is at the perfect height for mealtimes. The Xplory is very sturdy and easy to operate and manoeuvre.

The Xplory is suitable from birth though a separate carry cot for babies up to 6 months is also available to provide optimal comfort.

Buy from Pink & Blue Baby World, High St., Daventry and get 10% off in store with the voucher in our centre pages. www.pinkandbluebabyworld.co.uk. .

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Earth Mama Bottom BalmCan we talk bottoms? New mums and mums-to-be often have bottom problems! Prenatal and postpartum haemorrhoids, postpartum vaginal swelling and bruising, episiotomies... Good thing you have a baby coming to make it all worthwhile. Earth Mama® Bottom Balm® soothes and cools with an organic olive oil base infused with healing organic herbs - St. Johns wort, yarrow, witch hazel, calendula, shea butter, and more. Store it in the refrigerator and apply often! You will be sitting pretty in no time.60ml available for just £12.95 (free P&P) from www.butterfliesanddinosaurs.co.uk. Get 15% off with offer code in Toddle About centre pages.

Phoenix Colouring In Posters and HatsThe people at Phoenix cards are always coming up with fun new products, and these colouring in posters and hats are a great example. Perfect for those slow Summer days, you could do worse than having a few of these up your sleeve in case the children start behaving like caged animals ... though I’m sure they never do... The posters (4 for £6) are a massive 50cm x 70cm and made from good, thick paper (170 gsm). The hats are fun for role playing as well as a craft activity- they may not last forever, but at £2.70 for three, who’s counting?Available in boys or girls sets, buy from www.phoenix-trading.eu/web/char-lotte Plus, use your special offer voucher in our centre pages to claim free delivery and a free card with every order.

Ruby and GINGER - The ‘Just Nipping Out’ SetWhen you are ready to reclaim your gorgeous handbags yet still need nappy changing essentials the ‘Just Nipping Out’ set has all you require. It includes The Original Nappy Purse, matching Travel Change Mat and Ruby and a GINGER travel wipes case.This stylish Nappy Purse can be used on its own or is neat enough to be stashed in an existing handbag – keeping all your baby’s nappy changing requirements safe and easy to find in one, hygienic place. With enough room for three large nappies, baby wipes and nappy bags. Each nappy purse includes a discreet storage pocket for keeping your stuff safe too. Give it a try…you’ll wonder how you managed without one!Available from www.butterfliesanddinosaurs.co.uk for just £15 (free P&P). Get 15% off with offer code in Toddle About centre pages.

All prices shown are accurate at time of going to print, but are subject to change.

Cot and Toddler Bed by BopitaThis gorgeous cot bed is suitable for your new-born baby through to toddlerhood. When baby is young, the mattress base can be raised to ease back strain as you lift your little one in and out of bed. As your child grows, the high side panels with bars are easily replaced by lower side panels, removing the need for a bed guard and turning it into a toddler bed that will last for years. And it is available in 13 different colours - so there is an option to suit any room!Bopita children’s furniture is very robustly built with the highest care and comes with a guarantee of 5 years. Varnishes and stains are water-based and environmentally friendly. Bed dimensions:

W 75.5 x H 91 x L 146 cm. RRP: £395.00Available from Kinder-room - visit their show-room at 31a Warwick Street, Leamington Spa, CV32 5JX. And don’t forget the voucher from our centre pages which gets you a free mattress when you buy one of these beds!


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All About... Baby Signing

What is Baby Signing? In a nutshell, baby signing is simply sign language for babies, giving them a method of communication before their bodies develop sufficiently to allow them to speak. Babies can start learning signs from 6 months, and those starting at this age will often begin signing from 8 months onwards. There are a few different providers out there now who offer baby signing classes - we have attended Sing & Sign classes with our children. The classes are full of music and incredibly catchy songs from start to finish, and ingeniously combine action songs and nursery rhymes with gestures derived from sign language. The lessons are fun for the babies, who are entertained by props such as puppets and instruments, and teach the parents the signs so they can use them at home. It is through a combination of the classes and frequent use of the signs at home, that the babies learn how to sign.

The Research ResearchA has concluded that signing babies become children with larger vocabularies, who are better problem-solvers, are more self-confident, and tend to take leadership roles amongst their peers. It has even been linked to increased IQ levels. Baby signing also helps to develop a strong parent-child bond and the earlier ability to communicate can simply make life a little easier – not in the least by decreasing tantrums! Being able to communicate their needs in a way that is understood means that signing babies don’t get as frustrated and they resort less to extreme methods of communication.

Sound too good to be true?Parents who are new to baby signing are sometimes concerned that it might lead to their child being late to talk, the general feeling being that learning signs might distract a child from learning the spoken word and so delay language acquisition. But this is not the case – at least as long as you don’t give up on talking to your child! The thing is, talking to your child is a central part of baby signing: the carer always says the word when demonstrating

the sign, and this focus and repetition actually gives language development a boost. In fact, it turns out that many signing babies learn to speak earlier than their non-signing peers. The biggest criticism thrown at baby signing how-ever, is that it’s just not necessary as babies learn to talk soon enough anyway. In response to this, sign-ers argue that it definitely helps to have a baby who can sign “hot”, “drink” or “pain”, rather than crying until you work it out.

The Verdict Well, I say if you fancy it, you should definitely give baby signing a go. Our children have absolutely loved the classes, from William at 9 months to Alice who is nearing four, and we have fun at home prac-tising the signs with the older children for William’s benefit. Even if you don’t have the discipline to prac-tice the signs at home, the classes are super music sessions and the benefits of music with babies are well-documented. After all, what have you got to lose? At worst, your child won’t pick up signing but you’ll have had some fun singing songs and meeting some new people. At best, your toddler will never have a tantrum, will love you dearly and will be the next Einstein. It sounds like a good gamble to me!

Despite a surge in popularity in recent years, Baby Signing is still seen by some as the realm of the hippy-mother or the pushy parent. And, when you think about it, teaching sign language to a child without hear-

ing problems does seem, well, a bit odd. But odd it is not! At least we don’t think so... and we’d like to tell you why.

Sing & Sign classes run in Leamington Spa, Warwick and Stratford-upon-Avon. See advert on p. 16. For information on loads of other classes for your little ones see the Daily Activity Planner from p. 23, or an index of classes on p. 35

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Baby Photo Competition

Sponsored by:

Parri Uppal, 2 years

George Ochoa,

16 mthsTamai, 7 monthsIsla Mae Taylor, 15 weeks

Veer Uppal, 6 months

Jacob Furniss, 2 ye

arsJai Williams, 17 mthsplaying with Mollie

Amber Owen, 10 months

www.waterbabies.co.ukSee advert on page 29

www.lindascannell.com

www.kooch.co.uk

www.butterflybras.co.uk

www.linenathome.co.uk/cypsmile21

Isabella Perry, 4 months

Congratulations to this issue’s winners - all 5 of you! And a massive thank you to our lovely sponsors - The Warwickshire Baby & Toddler Show and five of their fantastic exhibitors (on the left of this page) for mak-ing the competition so exciting! We’re pleased to say the Baby & Toddler Show is going ahead after it had to be rearranged - it will now be going ahead on Sunday 20th November 2011 (see www.warwick-shirebabyshow.co.uk). We had a record number of votes come in this time (nearly 200) with over 700 of you going online to check out this edition’s gor-geous entries.We can’t begin to tell you how much we love receiv-ing your entries to the Toddle Models competition - they genuinely put big smiles on our faces whenever one lands in our inbox. As ever, we hope you enjoy them as much as we have!If you like these pictures, use your smart phone to scan this QR barcode for a treat: a seri-ously cute video of our baby boy William getting a hilarious case of the giggles:

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Enter the next Toddle Models Competition and win

Your Child on our Front Cover!The winner of the next Toddle Models competition will get to enjoy a free professional photo shoot with photographer PixiFoto in Leamington Spa being the front cover model for the next edition of Toddle About! PLUS, PixiFoto have offered to give our lucky winner a £50 gift voucher to spend on prints from their photo shoot!To enter the next Toddle Models competition, please email your favourite pic of your little one (along with their name and age) [email protected] by midnight on Friday 12th August. The winner will be decided by a panel of judges and as ever, we will print as many entries as possible in our next issue.

Send us your videos too!Email us at [email protected] with a funny video of your little one (or a link to it on YouTube) and you may see it featured in our next edition as a QR code like the one opposite!

Laney Thomas, 8 mths Charlotte Hall, 13 mths

Joseph Lee, 3.5 years Caitlin Harper, 4 mths Jayden Price, 8 mths

Ivy Forth, 3 yearsJack Wallace, 19 mths

Autumn Rose, 16 wks Isaac Katie Anderton, 18 mths

Liam Jones, 3 yrs

Katy Coupland, 3.5 yrs

Lucy, 3 months

Ashley Anderton, 3 yrs

Megan Shirley, 18 mths

Charlotte Mia, 7 mths

Sienna Price, 5 mths

David, 2 years

Summer McLaren, 7 mths

Ella McLaren, 2 yrs

Elliot Mould, 12 mthsFreddie & Harry

Lewis Fell, 21 mthsEwan, 5 m

onthsHarvey Leadbetter, 8 weeks

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Cranial Osteopathy

After reaching a peak with Ja-ke’s behaviour one Saturday

evening, we felt that we needed to do something. Although he was only five, he had experienced many stresses in his life which we felt had contributed to his erratic behaviour, which included extreme temper tantrums and a poor sleep routine. In fact, Jake had not slept an entire night since he was born. He had also suffered with recurring ear infec-tions including a perforated ear drum. I had heard from my Health Visitor that children who, like Jake, had had a traumatic birth and delivery, sometimes showed

signs of erratic behaviour pat-terns. I set about researching this. To my surprise there were many pieces of research linking these two areas, along with how it could also be linked to recurring ear infections. My research pin-pointed me to cranial osteopathy. I then set about trying to locate a paediatric cranial osteopath and my research led me to Neil Lunt. When the day of our appoint-ment arrived, Neil was wonderful with Jake, very calm and reassur-ing. I was amazed. Jake lay on the couch and allowed Neil to treat him for a considerable amount of time without moving - a rarity with Jake! Neil was very informa-tive, explaining what he had found and how he could help him. Jake immediately liked Neil

and looked forward to his next treatment.We noticed a dramatic change in Jake after the first visit. He was very tired and slept for a long time the first evening but awoke very refreshed. After 48 hours Jake was explaining that his head felt much better and that he could hear everything we were saying. As the days passed, Jake continued to improve in his sleep patterns, behaviour and calmness. We have now completed our course of three treatments and have seen a drastic improvement in Jake which both our family members and friends have also noticed. Although Jake is not perfect, it has made a drastic difference to the balance in our family life.

During birth, a baby’s head experiences enormous forces as the uterus pushes the head against the natural resistance of the birth canal. The baby’s head moulds to allow it to pass through the birth canal, and it can look quite deformed for the first 24 hours after birth, often with a cone-like appearance. Over the next few days, the head returns to a more normal shape, encouraged by the natural forces of suckling, crying and yawning. If the birth has been long or difficult, some of the moulding can be retained, leaving tensions within the skull and spine. These unresolved tensions can create discomfort, causing the baby to be unsettled or irritable and cry more than normal. Cranial osteopaths are trained to identify these areas of tension.As a child grows, these side-effects of a difficult birth

can make them more vulnerable to other health prob-lems. For example, asymmetries in the head, neck or body can lead to postural imbalances and tension within the musculoskeletal system.Cranial Osteopathic treatment is gentle, safe and effective for babies and children. Very specific, skilled, light pressure is applied to assist the natural ability of the body to release stresses and tensions. Reactions to treatment can be variable; commonly, the baby is relaxed and very sleepy. Occasionally they might have a burst of energy after treatment, followed by a good night’s sleep.

Neil Lunt MA BSc(Hons)Ost has been treating infants and small children for 20 years. He has had children brought to him from as far afield as Moscow for his particular blend of paediatric and cranial osteopathy. Neil practises at Jane O’Connor & Associates Clinic in Leamington Spa. See advert on page 33 for details.

A personal account by Mrs S Byrne

The Mystery Revealed... By Jane O’Connor

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Reader Recommendations:

You may remember that in the Spring edition of Toddle About, we invited you to complete an online survey to help us determine what you like and don’t like about Toddle About. Well, we’re pleased to say that over 80 of you kindly logged on to complete the survey and we’re so glad you did! Admittedly, that’s largely because most of the things you were saying made us feel very good, but equally the suggestions you gave us for improvements were extremely useful and will definitely lead to changes in Toddle About. For example, the Reader Recommendations feature on this page is here precisely because quite a few of you asked for them , and - with your support - this feature will continue for as long as you want it!We thought you might be interested to see some of the findings from our survey:

One of the suggestions that many of you gave us in our recent survey was to include more recom-mendations from our readers of places to go with little ones in Warwickshire. So here is your first

instalment! Your recommendations of child-friendly places to eat - thank you to everyone who got in touch to let us know where you have been that is good for families with little ones. We hope you find it useful!You can see more recommendations in our online directory at www.toddleabout.co.uk/directory. Simply enter your postcode and select the ‘Child-Friendly Pubs/Restaurants’ cat-egory and you will be presented with a list of recommended eateries in order of distance from your home. Help us enhance these listings by emailing your recommendations to us!

Eleanor from Warwick recommends...The “brilliantly baby-friendly” Lazy Cow restaurant in Warwick. I have been twice for lunch, both times with my 6 month old son and they have been really accommo-dating, more than happy to find us a table with room for the pushchair, even though it’s not geared up for children. The changing facilities are excellent and the shape of the restaurant lends itself to finding a quiet corner to breastfeed. Also, the food is incredibly good!8-10 Theatre Street, Warwick, CV34 4DPwww.thelazycowwarwick.co.uk

Emma from Stretton recommends...The Mill House Pub restaurant in Stretton, Burton on Trent. They do a fantastic chil-dren’s menu and have an indoor soft play area and outside play area as well. They do two meals for £10. My son has a speech/communication problem and they have a member of staff that talks to my son using makaton signs - it’s nice to know people are out there that understand James Brindley Way, Stretton, Burton-on-Trent, DE13 0LA

Our Survey Says...

Even though the survey is over for now, our ears are always open to hear your feedback - be it good, bad or indif-ferent. So if you have something to say, we’d love to hear from you. Please email us at [email protected].

• 67% of readers will read Toddle About cover to cover.

• 71% of readers would change nothing about Toddle About. A massive compliment!

• 87% believe Toddle About is better than other free magazines on offer (31% of all readers believe it is the best by far)

• 98% of readers have taken action because of an advert in Toddle About – the average reader has taken action 3 or 4 times.

• On average, 2.1 people read each copy of Tod-dle About, giving us a readership of 16,800 per region per quarter - or 33,600 readers across both our regions.

• Only 7% of readers throw away Toddle About immediately after reading it. 73% keep it till the next edition comes out and 17% never throw them away at all!

• 100% of the readers surveyed recommend Toddle About and on average, give it an over-all score of 8.5 out of 10.


Recommend and Win!For the Reader Recommendations feature in the next edition of Toddle About, we would like to publish your recommendations of free or cheap places to go with your little ones - because we think that would be the kind of thing most of us parents would like to hear about! They can be anything you want - the only thing we ask is that it’s the kind of place that you would recommend to your friends.Of course we hope you will want to recommend places simply because it’s the neighbourly thing to do, but in case you need a little incentive, we do have one. Thanks to Priddy Books, we have three sets of their brand new Fold Out Floor Books to give away (RRP £9.98). These books are lovely and just perfect for little ones. You can read our review online at www.toddleabout.co.uk.

Please email your recommendations to [email protected] by midnight on 31st August with your name and the town you’re from (a picture of you or the place recommended would be great if you have one too). We will publish your recommendations in the Autumn edi-tion of Toddle About and our three favourite submissions will win a set of Fold Out Floor Books. We look forward to reading them!

Jane from Kenilworth recommends...The Almanack in Kenilworth. It is a really relaxed, friendly gastro pub welcoming ba-bies, toddlers and children. The staff are great and accommodate your needs. The venue is breastfeeding friendly and although they all should be, The Almanack really is. There is a large table section at the back of the pub that you can hire out for free, which is used regularly by mummies and their babies and toddlers, enabling the mums to enjoy lunch and toddlers to roam free in safety, making as much noise as they wish, whilst the parti-tion ensures the other diners can enjoy their lunch in relative peace! The menu is tasty for parents and kids and the different speciality coffees provide a welcome boost! The Alma-nack also holds regular events.Abbey End North, Kenilworth, CV8 1QJwww.thealmanack-kenilworth.co.uk

Alison from Rugby recommends...The Olde Coach House in Ashby St. Ledgers (near Rugby). There are lovely gardens and an enclosed park next to the restaurant to explore and keep the children entertained while the food is being prepared - and the food is delicious. I cannot stress enough that I love this place for their children’s menu. Yes, they serve fish and chips but the restaurant doesn’t assume that all children want chips all of the time, and there is a really good selection of other food. The staff are very accommodating too.All in all it has good service, excellent food and is a place that makes the grown-ups feel they are out for a lovely meal whilst feeling very welcome with little children. Perfect!Main Street, Ashby St. Ledgers, CV23 8UN www.oldecoachhouse.co.uk

Child-Friendly Places To EatCatherine from Coventry recommends...Coffee Tots in Coventry. I can’t stress enough what a godsend Coffee Tots is. It is a fantastic little coffee shop and is the most child friendly place I have visited. It’s perfect when you have a screaming baby - it’s lovely to go somewhere that you don’t feel embarrassed when your child is having a tantrum. The staff are fantastic, so friendly. There is a play area for toddlers and lots of books and plasticine to keep them entertained! The prices are cheap as chips; they offer sandwiches, jacket potatoes etc. The hot chocolate with cream is gorgeous.Unit 11 City Arcade, Coventrywww.coffeetotscoventry.co.uk

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Better Emotional HealthIn some studies which tracked the longer term effects of co-sleeping and sleeping alone (Crawford, Forbes, Heron, Keller), the children who slept with their parents tended to be happier, less anxious and had higher self-esteem. They were also less likely to be afraid of sleep, had fewer behavioural problems and were generally more independent as adults.

Babies Who Cry to Sleep get StressedPsychiatrist Michael Commons has published research showing that when babies are left alone to cry themselves to sleep, they release increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol which he suggests can cause physical changes in the brains of infants. “It makes you more prone to the effects of stress, more prone to illness, including mental illness, and makes it harder to recover from illness,” he concludes.

Stronger Immune SystemsJames McKenna, leading anthropologist and sleep researcher, suggests that because babies who sleep with their mothers are usually breast-fed through the night (typically twice as often as those that sleep alone), they experience less illness due to the increased immunological benefits of breastfeeding.

Reduces Risk of Cot-DeathBabies are at most risk of cot-death between 1 and 6 months when they begin to sleep more deeply, but their cardiopulmonary regulating system may not be well-formed enough yet for the breathing centres in the brain to re-start breathing when baby is in deep sleep. Some experts suggest that because co-sleep-ing babies spend less time in deep sleep, they are less likely to suffer from cot-death. Furthermore, co-

sleeping parents often find that their baby’s breathing becomes ‘in-rhythm’ with their own, and there is evidence to suggest that a parent’s breathing acts as a kind of ‘pace-maker’ which can help to re-start their baby’s breathing, should it stop.

Baby Falls and Stays Asleep BetterWhen falling asleep in a parent’s arms, or physically close to their parent, a baby learns that going to sleep is a pleasant experience. Many babies in their first year do not have a concept of object permanence, meaning that when mummy leaves the room, they do not understand that she still exists elsewhere. This can be a stressful experience for baby, making falling asleep difficult and full of crying. Having a parent near when they come into light sleep during the night pro-vides baby with reassurance that it is OK to go back to sleep and they are less likely to fully awaken.

Mum Gets a Better Quality of SleepAlthough co-sleeping babies usually feed more through the night than their isolated counterparts, mother and baby tend to be in-sync with their sleep patterns, and as a result come into light sleep at the same time, so mum barely has to wake up to feed baby. When baby sleeps in a separate room, a night time awakening can often rouse mother from a deep sleep, which is the most restful kind of sleep, and causes not only exhaustion from interrupted sleep, but also a resentful attitude which is not conducive to returning to sleep. After lying baby back to sleep in a separate bed, it can often take mum a long time to get back to sleep because her body has to re-enter a restful state, and her mind is full of worry about the baby sleeping or waking up again.

For Co-Sleeping

The Co-Sleeping DebateCo-sleeping (the practice of bringing baby into the parental bed at night-time) is a bit of a social taboo in the UK, even though 20 – 30% of parents with babies under 1 year will be doing it tonight. As in so many areas of parenting, opinions on the best approach to sleeping habits tend to fluctuate between extremes. Most parents in the Western world opt for a separate cot in a nursery, but there is a significant and growing proportion of the parenting population who, taking their lead from more traditional practices, believe that having baby sleep in the parental bed is beneficial for all involved. Not only that, but they also believe very strongly that isolating a baby in their own room away from other human contact is bad for a child’s well-being. In this article we have presented the main arguments for and against co-sleeping to help you make up your own minds.

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The Main One: It’s RiskyThe main criticism of co-sleeping is that it increases the risk of cot death. The proximity of baby to their parents, and potentially a heavy duvet, can increase the chance of over-heating. There is also an increased risk of suffocation should one or other parent roll onto the baby in their sleep, and there is also the possibility that baby may fall out of bed.

Back in 2009, the media sensationalised the findings of Professor Peter Fleming (perhaps the world’s leading authority on cot death), who published a study that showed that 54% of cases of cot death occurred in co-sleeping situations. What was less well publicised was that the majority of these deaths occurred where one or both parents had been drinking alcohol or taking drugs, and/or had been co-sleeping on a sofa or somewhere other than in bed. When common-sense precautions were taken, co-sleeping was statistically no riskier than when baby slept alone.

Despite this – or perhaps because of it - the stance of The Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths (FSID) remains that the safest place for a baby is in a cot in the parents’ bedroom.

Baby & Mother Get More SleepCo-sleeping babies usually wake and feed more often during the night, and some parents find that their bed-movements wake baby up and vice versa, resulting in neither baby nor parent sleeping as deeply as they might do separately. A baby who has had a good night’s sleep is more likely to be happy in the daytime – and the same logic applies to mums too.

More Mum & Dad TimeCo-sleeping babies will often need help settling to sleep, either by feeding to sleep or simply having the presence of their mother nearby, and if they wake to find her gone they can need mum’s pres-ence again to get back to sleep. This whole process often robs parents of that sacred evening time when they can chat and catch up with each other without distraction, which is important for a healthy relation-ship. A baby that sleeps in its own cot usually learns how to settle itself to sleep and re-settle themselves again when they come into light sleep without parental help.

More Intimate Mum & Dad TimeOn a similar theme, a more common argument against co-sleeping is the imposition that a child in bed might make on more adult night-time activities. Whilst this is undoubtedly true for anyone bound to the bed, it has been pointed out that these activities can take place in a variety of locations...

No Need to Wean off Bed-SharingThat children like sleeping with their parents is a given. Co-sleepers typically say that your child will want to go into their own bed when they are ready

– often around the age of 2 years. However if you co-sleep and decide the time has come for your child to move into their own bed before they do, you may find it a difficult transition to accomplish.

Although views on which approach is best differ greatly, everyone wants their children to grow up happy, healthy and well-adjusted. In the end, all children are different, and it seems that some families are suited to co-sleeping whilst others are not. Whether you co-sleep or have your child sleep in their own room does not define you as a good or bad parent, so don’t let anyone else tell you what is right for you – read the research and the commentaries, try out what appeals to you (safely), and make up your own mind.

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Oxford University Press has found that more than 3 in 4 mums (78%) of pre-school children are ‘anxious’ about their child starting school and nearly 9 in 10 (88%) mums questioned said their child’s emotional happiness – confidence, ability to make friends easily and enjoyment of school – is their greatest concern.

Ruth Coppard, leading child and educational psychologist, com-ments: “What’s clear from the findings is that mums equate their child’s confidence to an ability to settle in. You can’t teach your child confidence, but there are many simple steps parents can take to build familiarity in order to pre-pare their children for school life.”

To help you feel more excited about this next milestone, the publisher has got together with Ruth Coppard to suggest some early stage literacy activities that you can try out over the Summer months, to help calm your own nerves, improve your little one’s confidence and prepare them for their next big step in September.

The survey and tips were commissioned to re-launch Read with Biff, Chip and Kipper, a series available on the high-street that features characters children will encounter when learning to read at school. We think they’re great! Read our review at toddleabout.co.uk/articles/reviews

Preparing for School

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1. Left to right When you read together use your finger to trace under the words from left to right and encourage any writing to go from left to right as well.

2. Rock-a-Bye Re-visit popular nursery rhymes. Rhyming skills are thought to underpin reading, so encouraging your child to remember the ‘missing’ word from the end of a line will help to develop this.

3. Finger fun! If your child wants to write letters, make sure the letters are formed correctly - left to right, top to bot-tom. Writing with a finger in sand or on the carpet

- something with texture - is a good way to help your child to learn the shapes.

4. Number knowledge Encourage counting to 10 when the opportunity arises. For example, when baking count 3 eggs, 4 spoons of sugar etc; count steps, numbers on houses, red cars, even grannies on the bus! T

5. Story time Get into a daily habit of reading to your child. Sit together and enjoy a book. The emphasis is on enjoying books and being comfortable with them. A great set of books for this are the newly re-launched Read with Biff, Chip and Kipper series - all characters children will probably encounter at school. Not only are they specifically written to help children prepare for school, but knowing these characters will help to provide a feeling of security on their big adventure.

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23

Daily Activity Planner

In the Water Singing & Signing Physical Fun For PregnancyArts & Crafts

Daily Activity PlannerRugby Area

MondayBinley WoodsBinley Woods Rhyme TimeBinley Woods Library, Monks Rd, CV3 2BQ14:15 – 14:45; Free; 024 7654 2908Drop in music & singing sessions for 0-2s.

BrownsoverKangas ‘n’ Roos Toddlers GroupBrownsover School, Webb Drive, CV23 0UP9:00 - 11:00; 50p; 01788 547660

Parents Stay & Play Session9:30 - 11:00; Boughton Leigh Children’s Centre, Wetherell Way, CV21 1LT01788 570347; 50p donation

CawstonBreastfeeding Group: 13:30 - 15:30Stay & Play Session: 9:00 - 11:00Cawston Grange Children’s Centre, Scholars Dr, CV22 7GU; 01788 817723; donations

Church LawfordTumble TotsVillage Hall, School St, CV23 9EE. 9:30: Gymbabes; 10:30: toddlers; 11:30: 2-3 yrs; 12:45: 3yrs - schoolNaomi: 07779 785 166; £4.80 each/£24 TermStructured Play for Babies 6 mths - school age

DunchurchNoah’s Ark Parent and Toddler Group9:15 - 10:45 & 11:00 - 12:30; Dunchurch Baptist Church, Coventry Rd, CV22 6RFKatie Wederell: 01788 842736

EasenhallLittle Splashers Swimming ClassesTown Thorns hydro pool, CV23 0JE9:00 - 11:00; For 2mths - 4 yrsCall Jo on 07968 015292Infant swim courses. Book as 10-week course.

Long LawfordStay & PlayLong Lawford Children’s Centre, Holbrook Rd9:15 - 11:00; 50p donation: 01788 568554Health Visitor 9-mth check by invitation only

NewboldStay & Play9:15 - 11:00; Newbold Riverside Children’s Centre, Newbold Rd, CV21 1EH

01788 568554; 50p donationEspecially for older children

Rugby (central)Rugby Baptist Church Toddler GroupRugby Baptist Church, Regent Place, CV21 2JP10:00 - 11:30; Louise: 07891 069786Term time only, 60p per family.

Bumps & Babes Group13:30 - 15:00: St Andrews Benn School, Chester St, CV21 3NX; 01788 579488For expectant parents and new babies <1 yr

Ken Marriott WaterbabiesKen Marriott Leisure Centre, CV22 5LJMorning & Afternoon Sessions; 4 mths - 5 yrs01788 535851Fun, innovative & effective swimming classes.

Tree House Soft Play9:00 - 19:00; Ken Marriott Leisure Centre, Bruce Williams Way, CV22 5LJ01788 535851: call first to check openSoft play: ball pits, slides, tunnels & zip lines.

Rugby Story StompRugby Library, Little Elborow St, CV21 3BZ11:00 - 11:30; 01788 533 25030-min story time sessions for 2 - 4 yr-olds

Willenhall, CoventryLittle Splashers Swimming Classes12:10 - 13:40; Baginton Fields School, Sedgemoor Rd, CV3 4EACall Jo on 07968 015292; For 2mths - 4 yrsInfant swim courses. Book as 10-week course.

Twins or More @ Rugby Methodist Church10:00 - 11:30; Russelheim Way, CV22 7TB Carolyn: 077733 74883 or Carol: 07801 819525

TuesdayBiltonBilton Evangelical Toddler GroupBilton Evangelical Church, Main St, CV22 7NQ10:00 - 11:30; Term time onlyKaren Cairney: 01788 817326

BraunstonBraunston Toddler GroupBraunston Village Hall, NN1113:30 - 15:00; £1.50; Term time onlyAndy: 01788 891456; First visit free. Crafts, songs & toys. Health Visitor 2nd Tues.

BrownsoverHealth Visitor Clinic: 13:00 - 14:30

Bumps and Babies: 13:00 - 14:30Boughton Leigh Children’s Centre, Wetherell Way, CV21 1LT: 01788 570347; 50p donation

DunchurchLittle KickersDunchurch Village Hall, Rugby Rd, CV22 6PN14:00 - 14:45: “Junior Kickers”, 2 - 3.5 yearsLynne: 01327 31037345-minute football sessions

EasenhallLittle Splashers Swimming SessionsTown Thorns hydro pool, Easenhall, CV23 0JE9:00 - 11:00; For 2mths - 4 yrsCall Jo on 07968 015292Infant swim courses. Book as 10-week course.

Harborough MagnaEarly Birds Nursery Toddler GroupThe Old School, Main Street, CV23 0HS10:30 - 12:00; 0-3s; £1 entryDiane: 01788 833559Parents meet up and children play safely.

HillmortonGems ToddlersHillmorton Community Centre9:00 - 11:00: 01788 573383Free toy library between 9:30 and 10:30.

Sunbeams Toddler GroupRogers Hall, Deerings Road, Rugby9:30 - 11:15 (term time only)Tracey: 01788 811341 / Emma: 01788 332960

Long LawfordStay & Play13:30 - 15:00; Long Lawford Children’s Centre, Holbrook Road; 01788 568554; 50pActivities especially for older children

Lawford LadybirdsLong Lawford Methodist Church, School Street, CV23 9AT. Mel: 07954 6671999:30 - 11:30; 50p; 0 - 4s; Term time only.A warm, safe and happy place for all.

New BiltonNew Bilton Baby ClubRugby Christian Life Centre, Lawford Rd14:00 - 15:00; 01788 547368

Rugby (central)Young Parents Stay & Play with H/VHill Street Youth Centre, Hill Street, CV21 2NB10:00 - 11:30: 01788 579488; For under 25 yrs - with Health Visitor

Rainbow Tots9:15 - 11:30 (term time); Rugby Christian Fellowship, 46/48

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r Cambridge St, CV21 3NQStephanie: 01788 544608; 50p per child

Stay & Play9:30 - 11:30; Oakfield Children’s Centre, Oakfield Rd, CV22 6AU; 01788 547368

Childminder’s NetworkSt Andrews Benn School, Chester St, CV219:30 - 11:30 (term time only): 01788 579488; A group for childminders only

Sunbeams Parent & Toddler GroupSalvation Army, Bennfield Road, CV21 2AS9:30 - 11:30; Term time; 0-3s; £1 + 50p p/cMajor Sandra Collins: 01788 535436Friendly group with play, crafts and songs.

Tree House Soft Play9:00 - 19:00; Ken Marriott Leisure Centre, Bruce Williams Way, CV22 5LJ01788 535851: Call first to check openSoft play: ball pits, slides, tunnels & zip lines.

Ken Marriott WaterbabiesKen Marriott Leisure Centre, Bruce Williams Way, CV22 5LJ; For 4 mths to pre-school age.am & pm sessions; 01788 535851Fun, innovative & effective swimming classes

Homebirth Group (NCT)1st Tues of alternate months, 28 Regent Place0844 243 6253 - Next on 2nd Aug & 4th Oct.Chat about homebirth with midwives, doulas

WolstonWolston Rhyme TimeWolston Library, Warwick Rd, CV8 3GX14:00 - 14:30. alternate weeks; Free02476 542 513Free music sessions for 0-2s. Drop in!

WednesdayBiltonBilton Evangelical Toddler GroupBilton Evangelical Church, Main St, CV22 7NQ10:00 - 11:30 & 13:30 - 15:00; Term time onlyKaren: 01788 817326

BrownsoverTeddybears Tots groupChrist Church, Hellvelyn Way, CV21 1JF9:00 - 11:00; Term time only

CawstonBaby Group with Health Visitor13:30 - 15:00: Cawston Grange Children’s Centre, Scholars Drive, CV22 7GU01788 817723; donationsHealth visitor available until 15:00

Clifton-upon-DunsmoreVarious activitiesClifton Primary School, Station Rd, CV23 0BTEvery 3rd Wednesday; 50p donation 01788 568554: Plse call to see what’s onStory sacks, Baby Massage; Baby Signing, etc.

DunchurchNCT CoffeeDunchurch Village Hall; £2 donation10:00 - 12:00 (Every 1st Wed);Bump - any age0844 243 6253 - Non members welcome

HillmortonSt George’s Magic Dragon GroupSt Georges Church, St Johns Ave, CV22 5HR13:30 - 15:00; 0-4s; £1.50; Term time only.Carol: 01788 544630Crafts, singing, toys, big hall, refreshments.

HinckleyLittle Splashers Swimming Classes10:00 - 12:00; Westfield Junior School,

Rosemary Way, LE10 0LNCall Jo on 07968 015292; For 2mths - 4 yrsInfant swim courses. Book as 10-week course.

NewboldStay & Play, Childminders: 9:15 - 11:15Stay & Play, babies (+ H/V): 12:45 - 14:15Newbold Riverside Children’s Centre Newbold Rd, CV21 1EH; 01788 568554; 50p donation

Rugby (central)Rugby Rhyme TimeRugby Library and Information Centre, Little Elborow Street, CV21 3BZ11:00 - 11:30; 01788 533 250; For 0-2sFree music & singing sessions for all. Drop in!

Stay & Play9:30 - 11:30; Oakfield Children’s Centre, Oakfield Road, CV22 6AU; 01788 547368

Outreach Stay & PlaySt Andrews Benn School, Chester St, CV21 3NX9:00 - 11:00 (term time only)01788 579488; Drop in for 0 - 5 yearsPlay indoors and outdoors with activities.

St Maries Little AngelsSt Maries Catholic Church, Dunchurch Road9:15 - 11:30; bumps - 5s; £1 donationAngie: 01788 333271Lovely group - crafts, singing and lots more.

Tree House Soft PlayKen Marriott Leisure Centre, CV22 5LJ9:00-19:00; 01788 535851: Call to check openSoft play: ball pits, slides, tunnels & zip lines.

Ken Marriott WaterbabiesKen Marriott Leisure Centre, CV22 5LJMorning & Afternoon Sessions01788 535851; For 4 mths to pre-school age.Fun, innovative & effective swimming classes

ThursdayBrandon, CoventryWater Babies Swimming ClassesBrandon Hall Hotel, Main Street, CV8 3FW9:30 - 12:00; Tamsin: 01295 709221Fun, action packed, progressive classes

BrinklowBaby TalkBrinklow UR Church, Broad St, CV23 0LN10:00 - 11:30, £1/£2 donation; Open all year. Sarah: 07930 431610 / Jo: 07984405691Toys & occasional crafts. Bumps - 5s welcome.

BrownsoverKangas ‘n’ Roos Toddlers GroupBrownsover School, Webb Dr, CV23 0UP9:00 - 11:00; 50p; 01788 547660

Parents Stay & Play Session13:30 - 15:00; Boughton Leigh Children’s Centre, Wetherell Way, CV21 1LT01788 570347; 50p donation

CawstonStay & Play Session: 13:30 - 15:00Cawston Grange Children’s Centre, Scholars Drive, CV22 7GU; 01788 817723; donations

DunchurchNoah’s Ark Parent and Toddler Group9:45 - 11:30; Dunchurch Baptist Church, Coventry Rd, CV22 6RF; Katie: 01788 842736

Dunchurch Rhyme TimeDunchurch Library, The Green, CV22 6PA4th Thursday of the month at 2:15pm; Free01788 811 355Free music & singing sessions for 0-2s. Drop in!

Bumps n Babes

10:30 (on 3rd Thurs): Dunchurch Village Hall0844 243 6253; £2 donation; RefreshmentsFor expectant & new parents

HillmortonRugby URC Baby & Toddler Group13:30 - 15:00; Rugby United Reformed Church, 40 Hillmorton Road, CV22 5ADPam: 07732 916412; £1 per familyTerm time only. Crafts, toys, singing & signing.

Abbey Tots GroupAbbotts Farm Infants School9:00 - 11:00 (term time only); 01788 543093

Long LawfordWalk & TalkLong Lawford Children’s Centre, Holbrook Road, CV23 9A9:15 - 11:00; 50p donation: 01788 568554Refreshments in the hut after the walk

New Bilton Little Gems Toddler Group13:15 - 14:45; Rugby Christian Life Centre, Lawford Road, CV21 2JE.0-5s; 50p each. Debbie: 01788 552227.Crafts, messy play, singing & story time.

NewboldLittle Stars Toddler GroupMethodist Church, Main St, CV21 1HH 9.30 am - 11.30am (Term Time); For 0-4s Mel Chambers: 07954 667199Toys, arts & craft. Have a cuppa and a chat.

Stay & PlayNewbold Riverside Children’s Centre, Newbold Road, CV21 1EH12:45 - 14:15; 01788 568554; 50p donationEspecially for older children

Rugby (central)Stay, Play & Weigh13:30 - 15:00; Oakfield Children’s Centre, Oakfield Road, CV22 6AU; 01788 547368Health Visitor Available

Breast Feeding Group: 12:00 – 14:00Health Visitor & Weighing: 12:30 - 13:45Claremont Children’s Centre, Claremont Rd, CV21 3LU; 01788 579488

Birth Choices GroupFriends Meeting House, 28 Regent Street19:30 - 21:00: Every 3rd Thursday of alternate months: Apr 21st, Jun 16th, Aug 18th, Oct 20th, Dec 15th; Yasmin: 0844 2436253For anyone considering birth options

Tree House Soft Play9:00 - 19:00; Ken Marriott Leisure Centre, Bruce Williams Way, CV22 5LJ01788 535851: Call first to check openSoft play: ball pits, slides, tunnels & zip lines.

Ken Marriott WaterbabiesKen Marriott Leisure Centre, CV22 5LJMorning & Afternoon Sessions01788 535851; For 4 mths to pre-school age.Fun, innovative & effective swimming classes.

Little Splashers Swimming ClassesLA Fitness, Webb Ellis Rd, Rugby, CV22 7AU10:00 - 11:30; For 2mths - 4 yrs0-4s; Call Jo on 07968 015292Infant swim courses. Book as 10-week course.

FridayCawstonStay & Play Session: 9:00 - 11:00Cawston Grange Children’s Centre, Scholars Drive, CV22 7GU01788 817723; donations welcome

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Long LawfordStay & Play Non-WalkersLong Lawford Children’s Centre, Holbrook Road, CV23 9A13:30 - 15:00; 50p donation; 01788 568554With Health Visitor. For non-walking babies

New BiltonGardening at the AllotmentRun by Newbold Riverside Children’s Centre at Gladstone Street. Please call for details.01788 568554; 50p donation

RokebyOutreach Stay & PlayRokeby School, Anderson Ave, CV22 5PE9:30 - 11:30 (term time only); 01788 579488; Drop in for 0 - 5 years. Indoors and outdoors.

Rugby (central)Crafty Fun and Story TimeKen Marriott Leisure Centre, CV22 5LJ10:00 - 11:00 (drop in): 01788 535851; £2.70New mums and tots group in soft play centre.

Little DiscoveriesRugby Art Gallery & Museum, Little Elborow Street, CV21 3BZ; 01788 533201; Free13:30 - 14:30 (Last Friday of Month)Crafts and music activities every week

Toddle Time13:30 - 14:45; Oakfield Children’s Centre, Oakfield Road, CV22 6AU; 01788 547368

Stay & Play OutdoorsAt the Allotment on Gladstone Rd, Rugby9:30 - 11:30; 01788 547368

Little Acorns Baby & Toddler Group10:00 - 11:30; Paddox Methodist Church, Dunsmore Ave, CV22 6HDAnna: 07758 511442; £1.00 (Term time only)Crafts, toys, cooking, chat and more...

Rugby Rhyme TimeRugby Library, Little Elborow Street, CV21 3BZ

11:00 - 11:30; 01788 533 250; For 0-2sFree music & singing sessions for all. Drop in!

Tree House Soft Play9:00 - 19:00; Ken Marriott Leisure Centre, Bruce Williams Way, CV22 5LJ01788 535851: Call first to check open.Soft play: ball pits, slides, tunnels & zip lines.

Ken Marriott WaterbabiesKen Marriott Leisure Centre, Bruce Williams Way, CV22 5LJ. 01788 535851Morning & Afternoon Sessions; 4 mths- 5yrs.Fun, innovative & effective swimming classes

Walsgrave TriangleLittle Splashers Swimming Classes10:30 - 14:30; Hilton Hotel, Coventry, CV2 2STCall Jo on 07968 015292; For 2mths - 4 yrsInfant swim courses. Book as 10-week course.

WolstonWolston Story StompWolston Library, Warwick Road, CV8 3GX9:30 - 10:00 (2nd & 4th weeks)02476 542 513; Free30-min story time sessions for 2 - 4 yr-olds

SaturdayEasenhallLittle Splashers Swimming ClassesTown Thorns hydro pool, Easenhall, CV23 0JE9:00 - 11:00; For 2mths - 4 yrsCall Jo on 07968 015292Infant swim courses. Book as a 10-week course.

Rugby (central)Tree House Soft Play9:00 - 14:00; Ken Marriott Leisure Centre, Bruce Williams Way, CV22 5LJ01788 535851: Call first to check open

Soft play: ball pits, slides, tunnels & zip lines.

Ken Marriott WaterbabiesKen Marriott Leisure Centre, Bruce Williams Way, Rugby, CV22 5LJMorning & Afternoon Sessions; 4 mths - 5 yrs01788 535851Fun, innovative and effective swimming classes.

Little Splashers Swimming ClassesLA Fitness, Webb Ellis Rd, Rugby, CV22 7AU12:00 - 14:00; For 2mths - 4 yrs0-4s; Call Jo on 07968 015292Infant swim courses. Book as 10-week course.

SundayEasenhallLittle Splashers Swimming ClassesTown Thorns hydro pool, CV23 0JE9:00 - 11:00; For 2mths - 4 yrsCall Jo on 07968 015292Infant swim courses. Book as 10-week course.

HillmortonRugby URC Baby & Toddler Group10:00 - 12:00; Rugby United Reformed Church, 40 Hillmorton Road, CV22 5ADPam: 07732 916412; £1 per familyTerm time only. Crafts, toys, singing & signing.

Rugby (central)Tree House Soft Play9:00 - 14:00; Ken Marriott Leisure Centre, Bruce Williams Way, CV22 5LJ01788 535851: Call 1st to check openSoft play: ball pits, slides, tunnels & zip lines.

Ken Marriott WaterbabiesKen Marriott Leisure Centre, Bruce Williams Way, Rugby, CV22 5LJMorning & Afternoon Sessions01788 535851; For 4 mths - preschoolFun, innovative & effective swimming classes

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AlvestonSing & SignThe Malt House, The Rookery, CV37 7QP9:45 (14/15m+) & 11:00 (6m - 14/15m)01789 415591; £55 for 10-week termOne hour baby signing class running from May

HarburyHarbury Toddler GroupThe Wight School, High Street, CV33 9HW9:30 - 11:15, open all year (not bank hols)0-5s; 50p per person; Jenny: 07826 516300Toys, crafts, in & outdoor play and singing.

KinetonKineton Baby ClinicKineton Scout Hall, Park Piece, Kineton10:00 -12:00 (fortnightly); Free; 01926 691105Health Visitor for baby weighing & advice

Kineton Parent & Toddler GroupKineton Village Hall , Mill Lane, CV35 0LA9:30 - 11:00 (term time only); 50p per personAli Laland-Villemin: 01926 641913

Lighthorne HeathBreastfeeding Support GroupLighthorne Heath Village Hall13:15 - 14:45; 01926 691105

Lighthorne Heath Children’s CentreBaby Play (6-18 mths): 13:15 - 14:45; 50pStay and Play Session in our Crèche area.Baby weighing and advice from Health VisitorBumps to Babies (bump – 6 m): 13:15 - 14:45For pregnant and new mums to meet. 50p.Stratford Road, Lighthorne Heath, CV33 9TWDrop in groups; 01926 691105

Long ItchingtonCreative KidsCommunity Centre, Stockton Rd, CV47 9QP9:30 - 11:00 (starts 17th Jan, not on 21st Feb or 28th Mar); 01926 814953Get creative with arts and crafts

SnitterfieldSnitterfield Rag Tag Toddler GroupSnitterfield Village Hall, Bearley Rd, CV37 0JH10:00 - 11:45; £1.50 plus 50p per childHilary: 01789 731246; For 0 - 4s.Run by parents for parents & their little ones.

SouthamActing, Performance & Singing ClassesThe Grange Hall, Coventry Rd, CV47 1QA16.00 (3-5yrs); 16.45 (6-8yrs); 17.45 (9-12yrs).Lorraine: 07711 010404Ballet classes for 3 - 6 yrs

Dandy DevelopmentClown in’ Around, 4a Cobalt centre, Kineton Rd.10:30 & 11:15 (Call to check after 11th July)Nikki: 07890 241301; £3.00 for over 1sClass inc. in normal entry. Limited places.Talk, Share and Play; Grow in Every Way!

Baby Time13:00 - 14:45; Southam Children’s Centre, St James Road, CV47 0LY; 01926 814593

Clown In Around Toddler Group

Unit 4A, Colbalt Centre, Kineton Rd, CV47 0FD10:00 - 11:30; £3.00; Anita: 01926 810495Includes tea/coffee for parents squash and biscuits for the children. Term time only

Southam Tots Swimming LessonsSoutham Leisure Centre, Welsh Road West, CV47 0JW; 01926 81778811:30: 5 - 18 mths, 11:30: 3 yrs+Swimming lessons for 5 mths - 5 years

Stratford-upon-AvonTumble TotsShottery Memorial Hall, CV37 9BL10:30: walking – 2yrs; 11:30: 2 – 3yrs; 13:15: 3 yrs - schoolGeorgina: 01926 337800; £5.50 per sessionStructured Play for 6 months up to school age

Early Pregnancy Antenatal ClassesRother House Medical Centre, Alcester Rd, CV37 6PP. www.birthandbabyreality.co.uk18:00 - 20:00, monthly; For bumps; Helen: 01926 731621 - plse bookFree antenatal class for early pregnancy.

TuesdayBanburyRugrats Twins and Multiples Group10:30 - 13:00; Rugrats and Halfpints, Beaumont Road, OX16 1QY; For 0 - 5s; £4.00 per familySimone: 07921 460086Runs fortnightly - in holidays too.

Bishops ItchingtonBump Info Evening19:30 - 21:30; The Greaves Club, Fisher Road Monthly; Call Bronwyn for info: 07817 456 379

HarburyBoogie & Bounce ClassesHarbury Village Hall, South Parade, CV33 9JE13:30 - 14:30; Lorraine: 07711 010404Introduce your child to dance (from 18mths)

KinetonFamily FunKineton Village Hall, Mill Lane, CV35 0LALunch time; 01926 691105; 50p per familyFun activities during Summer Hols - fortnightly

Lighthorne HeathTots TimeLighthorne Heath Childrens’ Centre, Stratford Road, CV33 9TW. Tel: 01926 69110513:15 - 14:45; 18mths - 5 yrs; 50p per familyFun Stay and Play Session. Closed in August.

RatleyRatley Toddler Group14:00 - 1:00; Ratley Village Hall; 01926 691105

ShotterySing & SignOur Lady of Peace, Church Lne, CV37 9HQ9:45 & 11:00 (6m - 14/15m)01789 415591; £55 for 10-week termOne hour baby signing class running from May

SouthamLove Ballet Dance CompanyThe Grange Hall, Coventry Road, CV47 1QA16:00: 3-4 yrs; 16:30: 5-6 yrsLorraine: 07711 010404Ballet classes for 3 - 6 yrs

Picnic in the Park12:30 - 14:00; Various locations inc. Southam, Stockton, Napton, Bishops ItchingtonCall for details: 01926 814593

Coffee & ChatClown In Around

10:00 - 11:30 monthly (5th april, 3rd May. Call for further dates - Bronwyn: 07817 456 379Soft play, coffee and chat

Clown In Around Toddler GroupClown In Around, Kineton Road, CV47 0FD13:30 - 15:00; £3.00; Anita: 01926 810495Includes refreshments. Term time only

Southam Tots Swimming LessonsSoutham Leisure Centre, Welsh Road West, CV47 0JW; 01926 81778810:00: 5 - 18m; 10:00 & 10:30: 3 yrs+; 10:30: 19 - 36m

Southam Rhyme TimeSoutham Library, High Street, CV47 0HB11:00 - 11:30, twice monthly; 01926 812 523Free music & singing sessions for 0-2s. Drop in!

StocktonPlaytimeEarly Years Hub, Church Street, CV47 8JG9:30 - 11:00; 01926 814953A smaller, quieter stay and play session

Stratford-upon-AvonMums, Bumps & Babies GroupKen Kennett Centre, Justins Ave, CV37 0DA10:00 - 11:45; bump - 1 yr; Free coffee morningVic Bean: 0844 2436284Talk about concerns & meet other mums.

Monkey MusicThe Parish Centre, Old Town, CV37 6BGAfternoons – please call Claire: 01789 415526Complimentary trial classes available

Stratford-upon-Avon Rhyme TimeStratford upon Avon Library, CV37 6PZ11:00 - 11:30, fortnightly: 01789 292 209Free music & singing sessions for 0-2s. Drop in!

Temple HerdewykeTemple Herdewyke Stay and PlayTemple Herdewyke Primary School 10:30 - 11:30; 0-5s; 50p; Term time only.Kerry: 01926 641084Stay and play session held in the school hall

WednesdayBishop’s ItchingtonHomebirth GroupEarly Years Centre, Poplar Road, CV47 2RT19:30 - 21:00 (2nd Feb & 6th April)Helen: 01926 612068Informal meeting with info on homebirths

Fenny ComptonFenny Compton Toddler GroupFenny Compton Village Hall, Memorial Road10:00 - 12:00 (monthly); £1.50; 01926 814953

KinetonKineton Parent & Toddler GroupKineton Village Hall , Mill Lane, CV35 0LA9:30 - 11:00 (all year); 50p per personAli Laland-Villemin: 01926 641913

Long ItchingtonLong Itchington Baby & Toddler GroupLong Itchington School, Stockton Rd, CV47 9QP9:30 - 11:00 (term time only); £1.50Nikki: 01926 810592Tea & coffee, crafts, healthy snacks & songtime

Priors MarstonPriors Marston Parents & ToddlersPriors Village Hall, Priors Marston, CV47 7RP9:30 - 11:30; 0 - 4s; £1.00 per childVery relaxed group - toys, crafts and singing.

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SouthamBoogie & Bounce ClassesThe Grange Hall, Coventry Road, CV47 1QA11:00 - 12:00; Lorraine: 07711 010404Introduce your child to dance (from 18mths)

Stay & Play9:30 - 11:00: Southam Children’s Centre, St James Road, CV47 0LY; 01926 814593

Clown In Around Toddler Group10:00 - 11:30; Clown In Around, Kineton Road, CV47 0FD; £3.00Anita: 01926 810495Includes refreshments. Term time only

Coffee & ChatBridge Cafe @ Southam Children’s Centre, St James Road, CV47 0LY12:00 - 13:00. Call for dates - Bronwyn: 07817 456 379Coffee & chat for mums & mums-to-be

Southam Tots Swimming LessonsSoutham Leisure Centre, Welsh Road West, Southam, CV47 0JW; 01926 817788; 13:30 & 14:00: 3 yrs+Swimming lessons for 5 mths - 5 years

NCT Breastfeeding Support Cafe10:30 - 12:00; Southam Children’s Ctre, St James Rd, CV47 0LYAndrea: 0844 243 0008Free drop in! Meet breastfeeding mums and get support

Stratford-Upon-AvonBaby Massage11:00 - 12:00; Lifeways Centre, 30 Albany Rd, CV37 6PG. Babies from 5 weeks to 3 monthsBooking essential: Clair: 07742 3179595-week nurturing IAIM baby massage course

Stratford Story StompStratford Library, 12 Henley Street, CV37 6PZ11:00 - 11:30 (4th week of mth)01789 292209; Free30-min story time sessions for 2 - 4 yr-olds

TysoeTysoe Toddler GroupThe Old Fire Station, Tysoe10:00 - 11:30 (monthly); 01926 691105Join Lighthorne Children’s Centre for crafts

Upper BoddingtonBoogie & Bounce ClassesUpper Boddington Village Hall, Warwick Road, NN11 6DH13:30 - 14:30Lorraine: 07711 010404; Introduce your child to dance (from 18mths)

WellesbourneWellesbourne Story StompWellesbourne Library, Kineton Rd, CV35 9NF10:00 - 10:30 (2nd & 4th weeks)01789 840528; Free30-min story time sessions for 2-4 yr-olds

ThursdayBishop’s ItchingtonBishops Itchington Toddler GroupMemorial Hall, Fisher Road, CV47 2RE10:00 - 11:30; 0-3s; £1.50 per family; Closed

xmas - NY & August. Andrea: 01926 612138Play time for children & chat time for adults.

Lighthorne HeathMobile LibraryLighthorne Heath Childrens’ Centre, Stratford Road, CV33 9TW9:45-10:15 (monthly): 01926 691105

Tots & TiddlersLighthorne Heath Village Hall9:30 - 11:00; 01926 691105. Not on in August.

SouthamSoutham Tots Swimming LessonsSoutham Leisure Centre, Welsh Road West, CV47 0JW; 01926 81778813:30 & 14:00: 5 mths - 5 years

Love Ballet Dance CompanyThe Grange Hall, Coventry Road, CV47 1QA16:30: Funky Dance (4-6yrs); 17:00: Gymnastics (all ages)

Lorraine: 07711 010404Funky dance classes and gymnastics for all.

Southam Church Toddler GroupGraham Adams Centre, St. James Rd, CV47 0QB10:00 - 11:30; 0 - 3s; 80p per sessionMarian: 01926 814483Term time only. All are welcome!

Young Parents GroupSoutham & District Children’s Centre, The Graham Adams Centre, St James Rd, CV47 0LY12:00 - 13:30 (starting 13th Jan); 01926 814953A friendly group for parents under 25.

Stratford-upon-AvonMonkey MusicAlveston Malt House, Alveston Vill., CV37 7QXMorning & Afternoon sessionsClaire: 01789 415526; Complimentary trial classes available

Temple HerdewykeTemple Herdewyke Baby ClinicTemple Herdewyke Primary school ‘Cool Club’9:30 - 11:30 (monthly); Free; 01926 691105Get your baby weighed and discuss any concerns with the Health Visitor

FridayLighthorne HeathFriday FunLighthorne Heath Village Hall, CV339:30 - 11:00; 18 m - 5 yrs; Free; 01926 691105Fun Stay and Play Session. Not in August.

Family TimeLighthorne Heath Village Hall10:00 - 11:30 (fortnightly) - Breakfast included!0 - 5 yrs; Free; 01926 691105For families to meet and children to play over August.

Storytelling13:30 - 14:00; Lighthorne Heath Village Hall; 01926 691105; Monthly - call for details

SouthamMessy Hour10:00 - 11:00; Southam Children’s Centre, St James Road, CV47 0LY; 01926 814593

Southam Tots Swimming LessonsSoutham Leisure Centre, Welsh Road West, CV47 0JW; 01926 81778811:30: Parent & Baby 5-18m & 19-36m; 13:30, 14:00 & 14:30: 3 yrs+Swimming lessons for 5 mths - 5 years

Love Ballet Dance CompanyThe Grange Hall, Coventry Road, CV47 1QA16:00 - 16:30; Lorraine: 07711 010404Little Tappers tap dance classes for 3-5 yrs

StocktonToddlersaursStockton Village Hall , Napton Road, CV47 8JX10:00 - 11:30; 0-4s; £1.50 plus 50p per personEmma: 01926 814687; Term and holidaysNew activity every week. H/V on 1st Fri of mth.

Southam & Stratford Region

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r WellesbourneWellesbourne Rhyme TimeWellesbourne Library, Kineton Road, CV35 9NF10:00 - 10:30 (1st & 3rd wks); 01789 840528; Free singing sessions for 0-2s. Just drop in!

SaturdaySouthamTogether TimeSoutham Children’s Centre, The Graham Adams Centre, St James Rd, CV47 0LY10:00 - 11:30 (fortnightly); 01926 814953; For 0–4s; Toys, crafts and other activities.

Stratford-upon-AvonGo 4 GoalsWelcombe Hills School, Blue Cap Rd, CV37 6TQ10.00 - 11.00 (4 to 11yrs - Split groups); Jason: 07747 562469; Term time only.Football coaching classes for little & big ones.

Monkey MusicAlveston Malt House, Alveston Vill., CV37 7QXMorning session – call for detailsClaire: 01789 415526; Complimentary trial classes available

SundaySouthamLittle Laces Football Cl assesThe Grange Hall, Coventry Road, CV47 1QA11:00 - 12:00; Call CJ: 07772 873271Bitesize 35-minute football sessions for 2-5 yrs

Warwick, Leamington &

KenilworthMonday

CubbingtonMusical abcCubbington Village Hall, Broadway, CV32 7JX9.45 - 10.35, 10.45 - 11.35 & 11.45 - 12.35Anne: 07876 518770. Trials must be prebooked.Music classes for birth - 5 yrs.

EmscoteLittle SaintsAll Saints Church, Vicarage Green, CV34 5NJ9:30 - 11:00; Free / donations. 01926 492073Activities and sing-song sessions

Heathcote Sing & SignBusy Bees Nursery, Macbeth Approach, Gallagher Business Park, CV34 6AD9:45 (6m - 14/15m) & 11:00 (14/15m+)01789 415591; £55 for 10-week termOne hour baby signing class running from May

KenilworthYoung Parents (under 25)11:00 - 12:30: St Johns Children’s Centre, Mortimer Road, CV8 1FS; 01926 856397; Free

Movers & Crawlers Drop In9.30-10.45; Kenilworth Children’s Centre, Bertie

Rd, CV8 1JP; 01926 853394; £2 donation

The Spring Playgroup Toddler GroupKenilworth Youth Centre, Abbey End, CV8 1QJ9:30 - 11:00 (Term time only); 0 - preschool age; £1.50 per family; Jackie: 01926 864443All families welcome, refreshments available.

Leamington Spa (central)Monkey MusicUnited Ref. Church, Cubbington Rd, CV32 7ALMorning & Afternoon sessionsClaire: 01789 415526Complimentary trial classes available

Early Pregnancy Antenatal ClassesLeamington Spa Baptist Church, Chandos St, CV32 4RN. www.birthandbabyreality.co.uk19:00 - 21:00, monthly; For bumpsHelen: 01926 731621 - booking requiredFree antenatal class for early pregnancy.

TiddlywinksSt Paul’s Church Hall, Leicester St, CV32 4TE9:45 - 11:30; 0-5s; Danielle Eley: 01926 427149Currently at full capacity - have a waiting list.

WarwickMonkey MusicSt Mary Immaculate, West St, CV34 6ABAfternoon session; Claire: 01789 415526Complimentary trial classes available

NCT Toddler Weekly Walks10:30 - 11:30; Walks in Jephson Gardens, St Nicholas Park, Abbey Fields & Newbold ComynAlex: 0844 243 6314; FreeDesigned for those with toddlers.

Sing & SignSt Mary Immaculate Hall, 45 West St, CV34 6AB9:45 (14/15m+) & 11:00 (6m - 14/15m)01789 415591; £55 for 10-week termOne hour baby signing class running from May

Southam - Warwick areas

If you have any questions, would like to reserve a place in one of our classes or organise a free trial session, please contact Nikki...

07890 241301 [email protected]

exciting new baby and toddler development classesDevelop... language and communication skills, confidence, listening skills, social and emotional skills and co-ordination

Stimulate... the senses and the imagination

Through... making music and singing, signing, role play, movement, our parachute hoops, toys, sharing special time and having lots of fun!

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Little Fishes Baby and Toddler GroupSaltisford Church, Albert Street, CV34 4JX - may be moving in Sept/Oct.10:00 - 11:30; 0-4s; £1 per family; Term timeLiz: 01926 496779Craft, lego or playdough, toys, snack & singing

Tiddlers Mother and Baby GroupCastle Hill Baptist Church, CV34 4EX10:00 - 12:00; bump - 1 yr; 50p; Term timeLiz: 01926 400368In the park in Summer hols. Drinks & friendship.

Creative Stay & Play9:30 - 11:00; Warwick Children’s Centre, Coventry Rd, CV34 4LJ; 01926 492701; 6m-5 yrsExplore and learn with messy play. We also do a ‘Wellie Walk’ at 10:00 a.m. in the park.

TuesdayBagintonBaginton Parent and Toddler GroupBaginton Village Hall, Frances Road, CV8 3AB10:00 - 11:30; 0-5s; £1.50 or 50p for babies + £1 for siblings 12 mths+; Vicky: 024 7630 6869Term time. Crafts, sing along, drink & snack

EmscoteEmscote Toddler GroupAll Saints Church, Vicarage Green, All Saints Road, CV34 5NJ; Kate: 01926 4035039:30 - 11:00; 0-4s; £1 + 50p per siblingToys, crafts, baby area & refreshments.

HeathcoteTumble TotsWarwick Gates Community Hall, CV34 6DZ

9:30: walking - 2 yrs; 10:30: 2-3 yrs; 11:30: Gymbabes; 13:00: 3 yrs to schoolGeorgina: 01926 337800; £5.50Structured Play for 6 months up to school age

KenilworthWater Babies Swimming ClassesThorns Primary School, Blackthorn Rd, CV8 2DS10:00 - 13:00; Tamsin: 01295 709221Fun, action packed, progressive classes

Positive Parenting with the Triple P13:00 - 14:55: St Johns Children’s Centre, Mortimer Road, CV8 1FS; 01926 856397Creche provided

Cradle Club (non-mobile babies)

Mini Movers (crawlers - toddlers)10:00-11:30 for both: St Johns Children’s Ctre, Mortimer Rd, CV8 1FS. 01926 856397Just drop in. £1 voluntary entry

Leamington Spa (central)Baby Massage13A Park Street CV32 4QN10:30 - 11:30 - booking essentialClair: 07742 317959; For babies 5wks - 3 mths5 week IAIM Baby Massage Course. Small grp

Little Splashers Swimming ClassesOddfellows, Warwick St, Leamington, CV32 5LD12:30 - 15:00; For 2mths - 4 yrs

Call Jo on 07968 015292Infant swim courses. Book as a 10-week course.

NCT Bumps Evening Group8-9:30pm. The Newbold Pub (upstairs), Newbold St. 2nd and 4th weeks in the monthAlex: 0844 243 6314; FreeMeet other parents-to-be. Call for details.

TiddlywinksSt Paul’s Church Hall, Leicester St, CV32 4TE9:45 - 11:30; 0-3s; Church Office: 01926 427149New visitors always welcome - waiting list used.

SydenhamSoft Play, Coffee and ChatThe PlayFarm, 5 Berrington Road, CV31 1NB

10:30-12:00; £2.50 (£1 <1yr); 0844 243 6314Call if you’re coming so Alex can look out for you

Warwick (central)Warwick Story StompWarwick Library, Barrack Street, CV34 4TH11:30 - 12:00 (fortnightly); 01926 412189; Free30-min story time sessions for 2 - 4 yr-olds

Crèche at St Nicholas Park St Nicholas Park Leisure Centre, CV34 4QY10:00 - 12:00. Term time only. Booking required.

Warwick Children’s CentreTiny Treasures (Birth - 18 mths): 12:45 - 14:30Sensory toys and activities for babies to enjoy. Tiny Talkers Stay & Play (6m–5yrs): 9:30 – 11:30Develop communication skills. Wellie Walk at 10:00 in Priory Park (children’s wellies supplied)Coventry Rd, Warwick, CV34 4LJ; 01926 492701

Warwick, Leamington & Kenilworth

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r South Warwickshire Home Birth GroupThe Quaker Centre, 39 High Street, CV34 4AX1st Tues of Month, alternate monthsFor bumps; free; Diane: 07771 586095

Tiddlers Mother and Baby GroupCastle Hill Baptist Church, Castle Hill, CV34 4EX10:00 - 12:00; bump - 1 yr; 50p; Term timeLiz: 01926 400368In the park in Summer hols. Drinks & friendship.

WhitnashBaby Clinic & Busy Babies Group13:30 - 15:00: Whitnash Children’s Centre, Nursery Lane, CV31 2PW; 01926 315586; FreeFor 0 - 12mths, H/V for baby weighing & advice

Whitnash Rhyme TimeWhitnash Library, Franklin Road, CV31 2JH; 01926 421 46411:15 - 11:45, 3rd week of monthFree music & singing sessions for 0-2s. Drop in!

WednesdayHatton Park (Warwick)Info Session for New MumsVillage Hall, Barcheston Drive. CV35 7TR13:30 - 14:00 - on July 27th & Sept 28th.Clair Hobbs: 01926 854443How to find the support you need as a mum.

KenilworthLittle Crackers Toddler GroupCrackley Hall School, Coventry Road, CV8 2FT10:00 - 11:30; 0-5s; £2 per family; Term time01926 514444; Please call to check term dates

St Johns Children’s CentreTwins and More: 10:00 - 11:30 (fortnightly)Childminders Group: 10:00-11:30 (fortnightly)Mortimer Rd, CV8 1FS; £1 donation;

01926 856397. Just drop in - contact for dates

Baby and Child Health drop in St Johns Children’s Ctre, Mortimer Rd, CV8 1FS10:00 - 11:30 (fortnightly); 01926 856397Breastfeeding support, H/V & baby weighing

Breastfeeding Drop in: 10:30 - 11:30 (free)Drop-in Baby Clinic: 10:00 - 11:30 (free)Stay & Play: 10.15-11.30 & 13.45-15.00 (£2)Baby Music: 12:00 (£2 donation)Kenilworth Children’s Centre, Bertie Road, CV8 1JP. Tel: 01926 853394. S&P runs 26/07 - 23/08Breastfeeding and baby clinic run fortnightly.

Musical abcKenilworth Wardens, Glasshouse Ln, CV8 2AL9.30 - 10.20, 10.30 - 11.20 & 11.30 - 12.20 Anne: 07876 518770: Please pre-book trials.Music classes for birth to 5 yrs.

Leamington Spa (central)Little KickersSt. Marks Church Hall, Rugby Rd, CV32 6DL15:30 - 16:15: Junior Kickers (2 - 3½ yrs); 16:25 - 17:10: Mighty Kickers (3½ - 5th Birthday)Simon: 01926 42258945-minute football sessions for 2 - 5th Birthday

Arty TotsLeamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum11:00 -12:00am first Wed of month01926 742700; free; 0 – 5sEncourage a child’s imagination and creativity.

NCT Mums & Dads Nights OutVarious locations, usually in Leamington. Free20:00 - 22:00, 1st week of month.Email Alex - [email protected] change: pub/dinner/movie/dancing...

Tiny StarsLeamington Spa Baptist Church, Chandos St, CV32 4RN; tel: 01926 336650

13:30 - 15:00; 0 to 2 years nine months; £1Welcoming group - lovely atmosphere

OffchurchDandy Development9:45 - 10:30: Offchurch Tots Group, Offchurch Village Hall, School Hill, CV33 9ALTots group runs from 9:30.Nikki: 07890 241301; £5.00 (inc. Tots Group fee)Drop in, though spaces limited. Starts Sept 14th.Talk, Share and Play; Grow in Every Way!

Spinney Hill (Warwick)Babies Group (0 - 18mths): 13:00 - 14:30Babies learn and explore with all of their senses. Stay & Play Drop In (0-5yrs): 9:30 - 11:00Open play session with planned activities.

The GAP Comm. Centre, Oakwood Gr, CV34 5TD01926 494200

Warwick (central)Childminders Stay & Play: 12:45 - 14:3029th June & 27th July - call for more datesCourses for Parents/Carers: 12:45 - 14:30Courses organised by Centre StaffWarwick Children’s Centre, Coventry Rd, CV34 4LJ; 01926 492701

NCT Weekly Walks14:00 - 15:30, various locationsBeth: 0844 243 6314; FreeGet some exercise & meet other new parents.

Crèche at St Nicholas ParkSt Nicholas Park Leisure Centre, CV34 4QY11:15 - 12:45 and 13:15 - 14:45. 4 mths - 4 yrs01926 495353. Term time. Booking required.

Jack and Jill Toddler GroupBaptist Church Hall, Gerrard Street, CV34 4HD10:00 - 11:30 (closed over Christmas); 0-4sSue: 01926 499561; £1 per familyBusy group. Garden, baby area, crafts, singing.


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St Nicholas Church Toddler GroupSt Nicholas Church St (enter at back), CV34 4JD10:00 - 11:30; 0-5s; £1 per family; Term time.Mrs Hodkin: 01926 312593Static play upstairs & run around toys down.

Health Visitor Drop In ClinicWarwick Children’s Ctre, Coventry Rd, CV34 4LJ10:00 - 11:30 (2nd & 4th wed); 01926 492701

Aqua Babies Swimming LessonsSt Nicholas Park Leisure Centre, CV34 4QY11:30-12:00 (4 m-2yrs) & 12:00-12:30 (2-4 yrs)01926 495353 - please bookSwimming lessons for little ones. Term time.

The Yummy Mummy’s ClubSt Pauls Church Hall, Friars St, CV34 6HD14:00 - 15:30; bump - 10 mths; Jayne: 0773 8294082 - plse call first for timesFriendly group of mums-to-be and new mums.

ThursdayBurton GreenBurton Green Parent & Toddler GroupVillage Hall, Hodgetts Ln, CV8 1PJ10:00 - 12:00; £1.50 per family; Term timeSharon: 024 76364723Everybody welcome! Please call first.

KenilworthBaby Massage11:00 - 12:00; Parochial Hall, High St. CV8 1LZ. Starts July 28th. For babies from 5 wks to 3 mthsBooking essential - Clair: 07742 3179595-week nurturing IAIM baby massage course

Music Together Kenilworth

Mornings; Room 3, Kenilworth Methodist Church Hall, Priory Road, CV8 1LQHelena: 07503 906468Runs 28th July - 25th Aug (not 4th Aug). Free trial offer in centre pages

Tumble TotsCastle Farm Sports Hall, CV8 1EY9:15: Gymbabes; 10:15: walking – 2yrs; 11:15: 2 – 3yrs; 13:00: 3 yrs - schoolGeorgina: 01926 337800; £5.50 per sessionStructured Play for 6 months up to school age

Ante natal drop in9:00 - 10:00: St Johns Children’s Centre, Mortimer Road, CV8 1FS; 01926 856397For expectant parents

Monkey MusicKenilworth Youth Centre, Abbey End, CV8 1QJ Morning session –call for timesClaire: 01789 415526Complimentary trial classes available

St Johns Toddler GroupSt. John’s Church Hall, Warwick Rd, CV8 1HY10:00 - 11:30; 50p donationSt Johns: 01926 853203, Kate: 01926 779159Refreshments provided, all welcome

St Johns Children’s CentreTiny Treasures (4-12 mths): 13:30 - 15:00Buggy Breakfast (0-5s): 9:00 - 10:00 (termtime)Mortimer Road, CV8 1FS£1 voluntary entry; 01926 856397; Just drop in!

LapworthLapworth Stay & PlayLapworth Primary School, Station Lane, B94 6LT13:45 - 15:15 (fortnightly from 6th January)

£1 voluntary contribution; 01926 856397Term time only - just drop in

Leamington Spa (Central)Sing & SignThe Dormer Conference Centre, 3A Dormer Place, CV32 5AA9:45 & 11:00 (6m - 14/15m)01789 415591; £55 for 10-week termOne hour baby signing class running from May

Monkey MusicDale St. Church Centre, Dale Street, CV32 5HLAfternoon – please call for timesClaire: 01789 415526; Complimentary trial classes available

NCT & St Mark’s KaleidoscopeSt Mark’s Church Rooms, Rugby Rd, CV32 6DL. 13:30 - 14:00: Parenting Discussion (free - topics change weekly); 14:00 - 15:30: Bumps & Babies Group in one room & Stay n Play Toddler Group in hall (£1 per family); 14:30 - 15:30: Breastfeeding drop in (free) Alex: 0844 243 6314. Suitable for bump, babies & beyond.

Leek WoottonLeek Wootton Baby & Toddler GroupVillage Hall, Warwick Rd, CV35 7RB10:00 - 11:30; Any age; £1.50+50p p/cToys, painting & sing-song.

Warwick (central)Dandy DevelopmentGirls Marching Band Headquarters, Hampton Rd, CV34 6JPStage 1: 10.00am-10.40am, Stage 2: 11.00am-11.50am (Starting Thursday 8th September)Nikki: 07890 241301; £4.50/£5.00Talk, Share and Play; Grow in Every Way!


32 Want your group listed here? Just email [email protected]!

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r Warwick Rhyme TimeWarwick Library, Barrack Street, CV34 4TH. 01926 412 18910:30 - 11:00, twice monthly; Free music sessions for 0-2s. Drop in!

WhitnashStay & PlayWhitnash Children’s Centre, Nursery Lane, CV31 2PW13:00 - 15:00: 01926 315586; FreeSessions themed over holidays - please call for info

Woodloes ParkWoodies Toddler GroupWoodloes Comm. Centre, Deansway, CV34 5DF. 9:30 - 11:00; for 0-4s. £1 per familyLiz: 07981 606163; Entry red door of the last building of school site. Toys, crafts & songs.

FridayHeathcote Sing & SignBusy Bees Nursery, Macbeth App., Gallagher Business Park, CV34 6AD9:45 & 11:00 (6m - 14/15m)01789 415591; £55 for 10-week termOne hour baby signing class running from May

KenilworthCradle Club: 10:00 - 11:30Kenilworth Children’s Ctre, Bertie Rd, CV8 1JP01926 853394. £2 voluntary contribution.Baby massage = 4 wk course, booking essential

Kenilworth Rhyme TimeKenilworth Library, Smalley Place, CV8 1QG10:00 - 10:30, 2nd & 4th Weeks; 01926 748 900Free music & singing sessions for 0-2s. Drop in!

Stay & PlaySt Johns Children’s Ctre, Mortimer Rd, CV8 1FS10:00 - 11:30; 0 - 5s; £1 voluntary contribution01926 856397; Just drop in

Leamington SpaDandy DevelopmentSt Paul’s Church, Leicester Street, CV32 4TEStage 1: 10.00am-10.40am, Stage 2: 11.00am-11.50am (starting Friday 9th September)Nikki: 07890 241301; £4.50/£5.00Talk, Share and Play; Grow in Every Way!

Emmanuel Toddler GroupEmmanuel Evangelical Church, Heath Terrace, CV32 5LY. Camilla: 01926 77463910:00 - 11:30; 0-4s; £1; Term time only For Mums who live in and around the area

Les Rainettes37 Rosewood Crescent, CV32 7UN10:00 - 11:30; Free; Marie: 07918 110656Practise your french over a cup of coffee.

Leamington Spa Rhyme TimeLeamington Spa Library, Royal Pump Rooms, The Parade, CV32 4AA. Tel: 01926 742 72110:30 - 11:00, 1st & 3rd weeks of mth; FreeFree music & singing sessions for 0-2s. Drop in!

Tumble TotsSt Marks Church Hall, CV32 6DL11:45: Gymbabes; 13:00: walking – 2yrs; 14:00: 2 – 3yrs; 15:00: 3 yrs - school

Georgina: 01926 337800; £5.50 per sessionStructured Play for 6 months up to school age

WarwickSing & SignSt Mary Immaculate, 45 West St, CV34 6AB9:45 (14/15m+) & 11:00 (6m - 14/15m)

01789 415591; £55 for 10-week termOne hour baby signing class running from May

Toy LibraryWarwick Children’s Centre, CV34 4LJ10:00 - 14:00; 01926 492701; £3 per year membership and free toy hire

NCT New Parents & Bumps Coffee MeetCosta Coffee, 40 Market Street, CV34 4SH.14:30 - 15:30; Cathey: 0844 243 6314; FreeMeet other new parents

Crèche at St Nicholas Park St Nicholas Park Leisure Centre10:00 - 12:30; term time only4 mths - 4 yrs; 01926 495353 - pre-book

Aqua Babies Swimming LessonsSt Nicholas Park Leisure Centre11:30 - 12:00 (4m-2yrs) & 12:00 - 12:30 (2-4yrs). 01926 495353 - bookSwimming lessons for littlies. Term time.

Toy LibraryWarwick Children’s Centre, CV34 4LJ10:00 - 12:00; 01926 492701; Birth - 8 yrs£3 p/yr membership & free toy hire

Parents & Babies SwimSt Nicholas Park Leisure Centre, CV34 11:30 - 12:30; 01926 495353Child under 4 Swim Free. Term time only.

Musical Stay & PlayWarwick Children’s Ctre, CV34 4LJ13:30 - 15:00; 01926 492701. Alternating weeks for 0-18 mths & 18 mths+

WhitnashNamaste GroupWhitnash Children’s Centre, Nursery Lane, CV31 2PW9:30 - 11:30: 01926 315586; FreeGroup for Asian families

SaturdayKenilworthMusic Together Kenilworth10:00 - 10:45; Room 3, Kenilworth Methodist Church Hall, Priory Road, CV8 1LQ

Helena: 07503 906468Runs 2nd July - 27 Aug (not 6th Aug). Free trial offer in centre pages

Baby Massage13:00 - 15:00; Parochial Hall, High St. CV8 1LZ. Start dates 9th July, 6th August, 8th October. For babies from 2 - 16 weeksBooking essential - Clair: 07742 317959BabyCalm 4 week course for parents & babies

Dads GroupSt Johns Children’s Ctre, Mortimer Rd10:00 - 11:30 (monthly); 0 - 5s; £1 don.01926 856397 - Call to find out activities.Sausage batches (or vegetarian) for all..

Leamington SpaLittle Splashers Swimming ClassesOddfellows, Warwick St, CV32 5LD9:30 - 13:30; Call Jo on 07968 015292

Infant swim courses. Book as 10-week course.

Go 4 GoalsBrookhurst School, Ullswater Ave, CV32 6NH9:00 & 9:45: 2-4 yrs; 10:30: 5-11 yrsJason: 07747 562469Football coaching classes. Term time only

Art Cart Family Fun SessionsLeamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum13:00 - 15:00, Last Sat of Month; 01926 742700; free; Drop in and enjoy artistic activities

WarwickDads AloudWarwick Children’s Ctre, Coventry Rd, CV34 4LJ10:00 - 12:00 (fortnightly); 0 - 5s; 01926 492701Activities for Dads/Carers & their child(ren).

SundayClaverdonLove Ballet Dance CompanyDance Studio, Ardencote Leisure Club, The Cumsey, Lye Green Road, Claverdon, CV35 8LT10:00: Ballet (3-5yrs); 10:30: Funky Dance (3-7yrs); 11:00: Gymnastics (all ages); 11:30: Ballet (5-7yrs); 12:00: Tap (5-7yrs); Lorraine: 07711 010404Ballet, Funky Dance, Tap and Gymnastics classes

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The Directory

Baby Health

The Directory

Find It Quick Search all these services and so much more by category,

location or name in the online directory at

www.toddleabout.co.uk/directory

Baby Health 33Baby Toys & Equipment 34Business Opportunities 34Crafts & Pottery Painting 35Groups & Classes 35Indoor Play Centres 35Nurseries & Schools 36Photographers 36Party Time! 37Unique Products & Gifts 37

Search online - go there now!

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The Directory

SThe marker shows you which businesses have a special offer in the centre pages

Baby Toys & Equipment (see also Unique Products & Gifts)

Business OpportunitiesS

Learning for Life - University of WarwickTel: 024 7615 1155; web: www.warwick.ac.uk/cll

See full advert on page 22

S Pink & Blue Baby WorldWebsite: www.pinkandbluebabyworld.comSee full advert on page 8

Cushi Tush - “The perfect babysitter”Website: www.cushitush.co.ukSee full advert on page 12

Butterflies & DinosaursWebsite: www.butterfliesanddinosaurs.co.ukSee full advert on back cover

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The Directory

Indoor Play Centres

Groups & Classes

Groups & Classes

Little SplashersSwimming Classes in Leamington, Rugby & Coven-try for 0-4s. See full advert on page 23

Water BabiesSwimming Classes in Kenilworth & Coventry for 0-4s. See full advert on page 29

Tumble Tots Physical Play in Leamington, Warwick, Kenilworth & Rugby. See full advert on page 30

Music Together KenilworthMake beautiful music together in KenilworthSee full advert on page 30

Monkey MusicMusic sessions in Leamington, Warwick, Kenil-worth & Stratford. See full advert on page 31

Swimming

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Musical abc - (Birth to 5 years)Classes in Leamington (Mon) and Kenilworth (Weds)See full advert on page 32

Little Kickers - Rugby & DaventryApproved football training for18 mths - 6yrs)See full advert on page 25

Little Kickers - Leamington SpaApproved football training for 2 yrs - 5th birthdaySee full advert on page 32

Little Laces from Kits AcademyFun football classes for 2 - 5 years in SouthamSee full advert on page 27

Go 4 Goals (2 - 11 rs)Football Coaching in Leamington & Stratford-u-AvonSee full advert on page 29

Baby Signing

Baby Massage

All Round Development

Ante Natal Classes

Football

Dance & Performance

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Boogie & Bounce Classes from LoveBallet Introduce your child (from 18 mths) to dance! Class-es in Harbury & Southam. See advert on page 27

Sing & SignBaby Signing classes in Warwick, Leamington, Stratford-u-Avon & Rugby. See advert on page 16

Lamaze Birthing ClassesA new concept in birthing practice - Birth & early parenting classes in Rugby. See advert on page 23

Dandy Devlopment ClassesTalk, Share and Play; Grow in Every Way! In Warwick, Leamngton & Southam. See advert on page 28

Baby Massage SessionsBaby Massage in Warwick , Leamington & Strat-ford with Claire: 07742 317959See listings in Daily Activity Planner from page 23

Crafts & Pottery PaintingS

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SThe marker shows you which businesses have a special offer in the centre pages

Photographers

Nurseries & Schools


The Directory

Unique Products & Gifts

Unique Products & Gifts

Party Time!

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Find more local baby & toddler events at www.toddleabout.co.uk

Pregnancy, Birth & Baby Show

Out & About

The Pregnancy, Birth & Baby Show is an exciting new event coming to Leamington Spa this September that has been organised by the Warwickshire Pregnancy and Birth Network (PBN). The PBN is a unique group of practitioners in the Warwickshire region, cover-ing the areas of Rugby, Leamington, Warwick, Stratford and Coventry, who all specialise in services for new and expectant parents. There are over 30 businesses creating this network that provide a variety of health, fertility, pregnancy and pre- and postnatal birth services, and all these business will be at the show to give you a chance to find out about what they have to offer and to get all your questions answered.Admission to the event is completely free - as well as stalls to browse, there will be talks, workshops and taster sessions running throughout the day which are free to attend as well. Talks will include topics such as Boosting Your Milk Supply, Baby Swimming, Baby Vaccinations, and DIY Pregnancy Massage, whilst the workshops allow you to get first hand experience of things such as pregnancy yoga, baby signing, baby massage and real nappies. Toddle About will also be making an appearance at the show so we hope to meet many of you there!Doors open to the Pregnancy, Birth & Baby Show at 10:00am and the event runs through till 4:00pm. See advert on page 19 and visit www.pregnancyandbirthnetwork.co.uk for more information.

Children’s TV’s favour-ite, Numberjacks, are leaving the sofa for the very first time and making their way to Coventry’s Belgrade Theatre for the first live Numberjacks show which will be on the Main Stage from Tues 18 to Sat 22 October.Running successfully

on BBC and CBeebies for five years, the Numberjacks TV series acts as a building block for young children and helps them learn about numbers, shapes and sizes in a fun way. Now, one of the original creators of Numberjacks, Chris Ellis, has created a stage show to further the ethos of learning developed within the TV series.

Chris Ellis said: “We know that Numberjacks fans love to engage with the characters and the live show will give them the opportunity to do just that. Expect quite a bit of ‘pantomime’ and audience participation, together with the usual adventure, excitement and learning.” Numberjacks is one of the highest rated children’s tel-evision shows and has been the winner of the Royal Television Society Award for Best Pre-school TV series three years in a row. In addition the show has been rated the ‘Most Educationally Beneficial’ children’s brand in a survey of mumsnet.com users. The stage version of Numberjacks is recommended for children aged between three and seven. Book tickets on 024 7655 3055 or via www.belgrade.co.uk Tickets cost from £13.25 to £17.75 for adults, £9 to £13.75 for children and £34 to £49 for a family ticket. Concessions are also available. See advert on inside front cover.

The Numberjacks On Stage Tuesday 18th to Saturday 22nd October at Belgrade Theatre, Coventry

Saturday 24 September, 10am - 4pmTown Hall, Leamington Spa

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