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Families Bedforshire Magazine for May-June 2013
Citation preview
BedfordshireIssue No.4 May–June 2013
Top tips for a perfect party!
How to... garden with kids
Win! £50 worth of gift vouchers
Plus, what’s onin May & June
FREE
13,000 copies to parents & children aged 0–12 across Bedfordshire
2 Bedfordshire [email protected]
News & Information 3
Education news 6
Party feature 8
Health news 10
How to... garden with kids 11
What’s On: 12in May & June
Editor: Judith Doweditor@familiesbedfordshire.co.ukwww.FamiliesBedfordshire.co.ukMob: 07889 894431 or phone: 01727 373929Twitter: @familiesbedsPart of the Families® magazines group, established 1990. All franchisedmagazines in the group are independently owned & operated under license.www.FamiliesOnline.co.ukDesign: Cath Ranzetta
Photo credits:Front cover courtesy of Claire Greenway http://clairegreenway.co.uk;pg 8 © Lauchlan Photography; © oksun70 – Fotolia.com; pg 9 © oksun70 –Fotolia.com; pg 10 © barneyboogles – Fotolia.com; © Arkady Chubykin –Fotolia.com; pg 12 © iloveboo.deviantart.com; pg 16 The Gnat and the Lion,Edward Bawden linocut, 1970 © The Edward Bawden Estate
Families Bedfordshire is printed by The Manson Group (01727 8484440) on papersourced from sustainable forests and the inks used are vegetable based.
Distribution: We are printing 13,000 copies which will be distributed to selectedpoints in Bedfordshire. For further distribution information please [email protected].
We take every care in preparing this magazine but the publishers & distributerscannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers, the accuracy of thecontents nor for any consequences. Any original material submitted for publicationis sent at owner’s risk and neither Families nor its agents accept liability for loss ordamage.
Bedfordshire
CONTENTS
EDITOR’S WELCOMEHello and welcome to the May/Juneissue of the magazine.
We’ve got lots of useful advice to sharewith you about how to plan yourchild’s birthday party in our double-page feature. Plus, there is plenty ofinformation about all the new thingsthat are opening up in Bedfordshire, including Jordans Mill, JungleJims and the newly renovated Bedford Higgins museum. Surely agood sign that the local economy is starting to move in the rightdirection?
Our What’s On section is, I’m told, the part of the magazine thatreaders really value and keep close to hand. So, if you are planningany events that you would like us to include, then please get intouch by email at [email protected] or you canfind us on Twitter or Facebook at @familiesbeds.
Finally, I’m delighted to confirm that from this issue we areincreasing our distribution to 13,000 copies across the county. Soa big thank you to everyone who has helped to make this happen.
Best wishes,
Judith
P.S. Our July/August issue will cover summer camps and activities,plus travelling with children.Copy deadline is Friday 7 JuneAvailable from Monday 1 July
Edward Bawden (1903 – 1989) Aesop’s Fables ‘The Gnat and the Lion’ 1970, linocut © The Edward Bawden Estate
Opening 21st June 2013......get ready to explore
3Bedfordshirewww.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk
NEWS & INFORMATION
This year it’s Child Safety Week from 24–30June. According to research* undertaken bythe people behind new blind cord safetydevice Cord Lock Away, while over 90% ofparents were aware of the risks posed bycontinuous looped blind cords, almost 50%did not use a safety device to protect theiryoung children. Sadly, 13 UK toddlers havedied in the last two years as a result of blindcord entanglement.
Ivor Seddon from Speedy Products, thecompany behind Cord Lock Away said: ‘It’s alltoo easy to think the worst won’t happen toyou. It can take as little as 20 seconds for achild to die from asphyxiation with a windowblind cord around their neck.’
The Child Lock Away safety wand is availablenationwide from John Lewis, priced £5.50.*Speedy Products questioned 91 parents ofchildren aged three and under in February2013.
In March when snow was still on the ground(not THAT long ago!) the Forest Centre atMarston Moretaine revealed its new play area
BEDFORD BOROUGH ENCOURAGES PARENTS
TO CHOOSE REAL NAPPIES
You may not be aware but Bedford BoroughCouncil’s real nappy cash back scheme has alimited number of subsidies and is invitingparents and guardians who have not used realnappies to give them a try!
If you are a parent or guardian living inBedford Borough you may be entitled to £25cash back from the Council when you spend£50 or more on washable nappies or laundryservices.
For more information on the cash backscheme or questions about washable nappiesyou can contact Bedford Borough Council on01234 718060 or visitwww.bedford.gov.uk/recycling.
With Father’s Day coming up in in June, TheBlu!er’s Guide to Fatherhood by Paul Merrillmight be just what you are look for, whetheryou are about to become a dad or you alreadyhave children. It’s a spoof on many of theparenting guides that are already available.And as a father of three boys, Mr Merrillclearly has experience of what you shouldexpect when plunged into the wonderfulworld of fatherhood.
We particularly liked the following questions.Children instinctively know to which parentthey need to ask di!erent things. After all, asa father, you can’t be expected to knoweverything about everything all the time, canyou? Or even some of the time? It is alwaysgood to know what to expect!
Questions they ask Mum:What’s for breakfast?
Where’s my school bag?Can I go to Chloe’s after school?
When is rugby?When is my homework due?
Where are my pyjamas?What can I have to eat?
How do I top up my phone?
Questions they ask Dad:Where’s Mum?
The Blu!er’s Guide to Fatherhood: HowTo FoolPeople IntoThinking You’re A Competent Dad ispublished on 1 June 2013 by ThistlePublishing: www.thistlepublishing.co.uk.
Forest of Marston Vale opens new playground
Child Safety Week
which is now open to all!More info: www.marstonvale.org.
The Bluffer’s Guide to Fatherhood
Price: £8.99 (paperback); £6.30 (e-book).ISBN: 978-1-909609-46-4
4 Bedfordshire [email protected]
Bedford-born Tommy Balaam is the owner ofthe successful Captain Fantastic partybusiness. Bought up in Potton, his family stilllive there and run a successful buildingcompany. Tommy himself tried his hand at the
features a hugely expanded floorspace forexhibitions, state-of-the-art modern facilitiesand the latest technology to enable people ofall ages to enjoy the displays.
The Mayor of Bedford Borough, DaveHodgson, said: ‘The redeveloped HigginsBedford belongs to us all, and I hope localpeople of all ages will come along time andagain to enjoy what is on o!er.’
With lots of events being planned for childrenand families over the summer, there should besomething of interest for everyone.More info: www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk.
IS THERE A CAPTAIN IN THE HOUSE?
NEWS & INFORMATION
The transformed art gallery and museum, TheHiggins Bedford is due to re-open on Friday 21June, from dawn to dusk on the longest day ofthe year! Located in the historic buildings ofCastle Brewery and the adjoining Victorianfamily home, both were built by the Higginsfamily in the mid-19th Century.
The Higgins Bedford will bring together aninternationally renowned art collection with abrand new visitor experience of nationalsignificance, that does justice to the storiesbehind the people, places and collectionsassociated with both the former museum andart gallery. The £5.8 million project also
Jungle Jims in Sandy is Bedfordshire’s newestplay and party centre, aimed at 0–10 yearolds. It opened its doors in March this year,and as Leeann Nicholls, who runs Jungle Jimsconfirms, they have had a great responsefrom parents to its opening. They also o!erparties and children will be able to celebrateand go wild in their new safe, clean, secureand fun Jungle with two level play frames anda separate area for smaller ones.
From May, Jungle Jims are planning to o!er asession for special needs children on the firstWednesday of every month, from 6pmonwards; they are also considering a similarsession for siblings only. For more detailsphone 01767 682808 or go towww.junglejimsplayland.co.uk.
The Higgins Bedford re-opens in June
Children’s Allergy Clinicin Milton Keynes
by Dr David Cremonesini,Consultant Paediatrician
Clinics held atBMI The Saxon Clinic,Milton Keynes andHinchingbrooke Hospital
Dr David sees all general problemsand allergies:
Immunotherapy for difficult hay feverSkin prick testing for eczema/asthma
Food allergy testing/advice/adrenaline pens
Phone: 01487 814256www.kidsallergy.co.uk
Jungle Jims proves a success in Sandy
trade but then decided to take up a place atthe East 15 Acting School. After leaving, heformed his party business in 2009 and hasnever looked back with the business nowexpanding into o!ering baby group sessionsand theatre shows. Parties are booming withGangnam Style still the most popular song formany younger and older kids, and HarlemShake coming in a close second. With plans tolaunch a summer school later in the year,Tommy, who leads his seven other ‘Captains’,is a man on a mission: one to entertain!More info: www.captain-fantastic.co.uk.
A N N A B E L K A R M E L N E W B O O K
Annabel Karmel MBE launches the first in her‘Quick and Easy’ series: Quick and Easy ToddlerRecipes in June.
This 144-page full-colour recipe book has beendesigned to help hard-working families feedtheir children a healthy, balanced diet – inquick time! The book has over 100 delicious,nutritious, timesaving recipes packed full of natural flavour. Breakfast,healthy snacks, lunch and dinner all feature along with plenty of time-saving tips and tricks to encourage children to eat well and experimentwith di!erent sweet and savoury flavours.
With over 26 books and four million sales to her name, it’s safe to sayMs Karmel knows a thing or two about how to feed fussy kids!
Quick and Easy Toddler Recipes (RRP £9.99) will be published by EburyPress on 20 June 2013.
The John Bunyan boat, which is currently under construction, is dueto set sail from Bedford in June. Commissioned by the Bedford &Milton Keynes Waterway Trust it will be available for river trips andparty bookings.
There will be four trips available; namely Kempston, the town lock,Cardington lock and finally, a longer cruise to the Anchor Inn, GreatBarford.The perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon, messing abouton the river with the family!
For more info and to book: www.b-mkwaterway.co.uk.
The John Bunyan Boat
NEWS & INFORMATION
5Bedfordshire
This year’s NationalYoung Writers’ Awards has now been launched. Thecompetition, organised by Explore Learning, is now in its fifth year andwill be judged by best-selling author Cressida Cowell, writer of the worldfamous How To Train Your Dragon series, which inspired the hugelysuccessful DreamWorks movie.
Children aged 5 to 14 are invited to write a 500 word short story on thisyear’s theme – ‘Around the World’. The competition closes on Monday 3June. You can enter via www.explorelearning.co.uk/youngwriters or bypicking up an entry form from the Bedford Explore Learning Centre(tel: 01234 365905).
The winner will be presented their prize of a trip to Disneyland Paris fortheir whole family – and £500 worth of books for their school – by Cres-sida Cowell in June.
Carey Ann Dodah, Head of Curriculum at Explore Learning says: ‘We’revery excited about this year’s National Young Writers’ Awards andanticipate it to be bigger than ever before. There will be regionalwinners selected and each child who enters will receive a certificatecelebrating their e!orts. Cressida and the team will be judging theentries on their creative approach, ingenuity and use of descriptivelanguage – and of course taking into account age.’
National Young Writers’ Awards launched
An inspiring story setin extraordinary times
JOHNBUNYANMUSEUM BEDFORD
Contactt. 01234 270303e. [email protected] www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk/museum
FREEENTRY
Find usJohn Bunyan Museum,Bunyan Meeting, Mill Street,Bedford MK40 3EU
• BUNYAN MEETING HISTORIC CHURCH• LIBRARY OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY• COFFEE SHOP & TRAIDCRAFT GOODS• PRE-BOOKED GROUPS & SCHOOLS WELCOME YEAR-ROUND
Museum Open MARCH TO OCTOBER
Tues - Sat 11am to 4pm(Closed Good Friday)
Last admission 3.45pm
W I N W I N W I N !Gift vouchers worth £50 from the Creation Station
Families Bedfordshire has teamed up with theaward winning arts and crafts classes andparty provider The Creation Station(www.thecreationstation.co.uk) to giveYOUthe chance to win £50 worth of CreationStation gift vouchers.
You can put them towards an Arty Party, or one of their hands-onweekly classes for children aged 4 months to 5 years, or on their onlinearts and craft store.
And as your child’s birthday is the mostimportant day in the world, you want to givethem a unique and memorable day and makelife easy for yourself too!
You can rest assured that with over 100,000children already inspired by this award-winning children’s activity business, theirleaders are experts in ensuring your child,their friends and you, enjoy an entertaining,inspiring and totally fun party.
Competition question: At what age do Creation Station classes start?
Enter online at: www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk/competitionsby Monday 3 June 2013.
www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk
Bedfordshire [email protected]
EDUCATION
6
‘There seems to be a growingidea amongst both parents andchildren that the only functionof learning and school is to geta job and that, QED, the betterthe school the better the jobwill be. This style of thinkingtruly exasperates me.
‘As director of La Petite Ecolein Bedford, I am frequentlyasked why we persist withFrench and don’t teach themore ‘economically useful’languages. Apart from tryingto point out that any languagecan be economically useful,depending on what you do with it, I am also keen to stress that my aimis ‘to get children to be confidently self-expressed in a foreign lan-guage’ and that we just happen to choose the medium of French to doit. Once you have the confidence that you can master one language,you will see others as easy meat.
‘My children attend a number of after school classes and clubs, tobroaden their horizons and give them a more balanced perspective inlife. In addition, I am not ashamed to admit that, even in our fashion-ably secular world, as a family, we belong to a church partly in the hopethat my children will grow up with a faith which will act as a guide andmoral compass in life, should they be faced with di"culties and we arenot around to help.
‘I attended a talk on working with, and identifying, gifted and talentedchildren recently and one of the ideas suggested by the speaker (theex-head of a very prestigious independent school) was to take themto the ballet. I would take my children to the ballet – not in the hopethat they want to become ballet dancers – but that they would seewhat sublime acts of grace and beauty can be developed by the posi-tive aspects of human nature.
‘In the same vein, I cut out a Prison Service job advert recently andstuck it on the kitchen notice board. My wife asked if I was thinking ofapplying. The advert asked: ‘Are you confident, mentally strong andnot easily intimidated?’. The reason I stuck it up is that these are someof the core qualities which I want my children to grow up learning, andI think it’s our job to foster this in them.
‘My point is that no-one knows what the future will bring. We have thecapacity to learn so that we can survive. The best learner-adapters arethe best survivors, whether that be economically or physically. Ibelieve that by teaching children how to learn, un-learn and re-learn,they will develop the key skills to make them and future generationsemployable in the global market.’
Tom Barwood is director of La Petite Ecole Française(www.lpef.co.uk) and senior course provider of LikeMinds Consult-ing (www.likemindslearning.co.uk).
VV ii eewwppoo ii nn tt by Tom BarwoodGet walking
Yes, it’s that time of year again. 2013’s Walk To School Week runs from20–24 May, bringing together nearly one million schoolchildren, teach-ers and parents and promising to be the biggest and best yet! As part ofNational Walking Month, the campaign aims to teach children about thebenefits of walking, with each day focusing on a di!erent aspect of walk-ing including safety, discovery, healthy, eco-friendly and social time. Takepart in Strider’s 5-Day Walking Challenge and reinforce the benefits ofwalking, plus download puzzles, pledges and challenges at: www.livingstreets.org.uk/walk-with-us/walk-to-work-week-13-17-may-2013.
Radio stardom for pupils of The Meads, Luton
Year 4 pupils at The Meads primary school in Luton have become mediastars after creating a new radio road safety advert for Luton Council.
By winning a competition run by Luton Borough Council’s road safetyteam, they recorded their winning script live in Heart FM’s studios andtook home a £500 prize for their school.
The advert they created asks parents and pupils in Luton to consider alternative ways of travelling to and from school other than using a carand was aired throughout April. The winning entry asks: ‘Is congestionoutside your school driving you insane?’ Suggestions include walking,cycling, ‘or a di!erent route… you could scoot!’
‘Two legs are better than four wheels,’ the pupils say, before ending witha plea: ‘Please help, we can’t do this alone. Congestion outside schoolsis putting children’s safety at risk.’
Photo (above): The Meads pupils – Patrick Gribben, Jackson Baldwin, Abinav Santhiramohan and William Abram.
EDUCATION
7www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk Bedfordshire
Dr Christiane Fisher, the owner of Acorn DayNusery in Luton, is planning to open a newPreparatory school this autumn, subject to OF-STED approval. It will be based at the same siteas the Nursery. Dr Fisher, who has a PhD inbrain research, has been running the AcornNursery for several years now.
The new school hopes to o!er three classesacross Key Stage 1, all of which will be small in
First Class Learning runs classes in both Lutonand Bedford as part of its 200 centres acrossthe UK. Luton is run by Karim Kingsley, a former Sports teacher, whose classes are heldin the Bushmead and Warden Hill CommunityCentres. She o!ers small classes in Englishand Maths, where she and her two assistantsare able to help a range of children of mixedages and abilities, aged four upwards, inpreparation for their school Standard Attain-ment Tests (SATS), as well as helping thosewho may have learning di"culties anddyslexia. ‘Confidence is a major thing’, saysKarim. ‘A child can be quiet and timid, but ouraim is to get them to start talking.’
The reasons why parents send their childrento a tuition class may be varied. Karim saysfor some it is to: ‘Consolidate [their knowl-edge] and get them to the top of their class’,while others ‘...are looking to get their chil-dren into the grammar system... parents are much more aware of scholarshipsinto private schools.’ But she also says that itis up to parents as to how much additionalwork their children take on. ‘Parents can adjust their programme; it is their decision[the parents] – they can advise us, and it isnot set in stone.’
Karim o!ers a two week free trial at herclasses in Luton. She is also starting up Early
Morning Maths classes at schools, from 8amonwards – a bonus if parents need to drop o!their children before school starts. While in Bedford, Andrew Turpie returned tohis home town to set up his classes last summer. He emphasises the need to go backto a traditional way of doing things with pencil and paper and is seeing a big demandfor tuition services, as well as one-to-onehelp.
To contact either Karim or Andrew, visit theFirst Class Learning website: www.firstclasslearning.co.uk.
Pictured: (left) Daniel, age 11,Year 6 Bramingham Primary School(above, top) Enam, age 8,Year 3 Bushmead Primary School(above) Kishan, age 10,Year 6 Ashton Middle School
As part of its preparations to celebrate its90th anniversary, Polam School in Bedford isappealing for its alumni and friends of theschool to come forward and share any memorabilia, photographs or even old school reports to help illustrate the institution’s 90years of service to its community.
The school has issued an open invitation foranyone wishing to contribute to visit theschool and share their personal memoriesand stories of their own experiences of PolamSchool which they can do via their Facebookpage.
Phillipa Villa, head teacher of Polam School,said: ‘I am delighted with the level of enthusi-asm our pupils have shown at the prospect oflearning more about their school’s historythough the memorabilia. Our aim at PolamSchool is to inspire and encourage a spirit ofenquiry and exploration.’
A week of celebrations beginning on 10 Junewill mark the anniversary and the school’sflag will be raised for the first time in over adecade. During the week-long celebrationsPolam School pupils will welcome guests totour their school and visit the exhibition of alldonated and loaned memorabilia. They willculminate in a celebratory garden partywhich will be held in the school’s grounds onSaturday 15 June. The day’s events promiseto provide a range of activities for childrenand adults alike.
More info and to book tickets: www.polamschool.co.uk/90th.html.
G I V I N G C H I L D R E N A F I R S T C L A S S S T A R T POLAM SCHOOL CALLSFOR MEMORIES
Photo (right): Seven year old Arthur Standbridge.The boys in his photos are his dad and uncle!
Luton Prep School due to open in Septembersize, and to attract pupils from across thesouthern Bedfordshire region.
For more details please contact Dr Fisher on:01582 574390. www.acorn-nurseryschool.com
A birthday party is the high point of the year for most kids – so the pressure is on to get it right. The secret, as ever, is in the planning. But how do
you find out which party is right for your child? We guide you through the options.
8 Bedfordshire [email protected]
I T ’ S P A R T Y T I M E ! by Joanna Moorhead
PARTIES
The action partyWhat is it? Paintballing, go-karting, swimming, Go Ape etc.
Who’s it suitable for? Older children (seven plus); kids with lots of energy
who enjoy racing around.
The pros: Your house remains intact; the kids have something to focus
on, and lots of opportunities to let o! steam; many children end up cov-
ered in bruises from paintballing (though they don’t seem to mind!)
The cons: It can be very expensive; although some options, e.g. a swim-
ming pool party, trip to an adventure playground, can be good value.
Sarah Elam at Polam School, Bedford, confirms this view and says: ‘For
an alternative way to celebrate a child’s birthday, a pool party can be an
exciting, fun and a!ordable way to entertain larger groups of children.’
She adds: ‘Parents can relax knowing that all they have to do is turn up
and provide the food for the hungry kids. These parties are one of the
few that charge a flat fee of £100 for the 90-minute party, as opposed to
a charge per head, making it an a!ordable option.’
Top tips to make it work: 1. If the activity is long and energetic it might be best to postpone a
winter birthday party to the spring (the kids might get wet and cold
as they’ll be outside for ages).
2. Take plenty of water, squash, snacks including fruit – they’ll need
plenty of energy for all that running around.
3. Make ABSOLUTELY sure you’ve checked all restrictions, e.g. height
restrictions, beforehand – there’s nothing worse than finding out on
the day that one of your guests is too small to participate.
4. Make sure you get parental consent forms signed well in advance –
the venue will require you to do this before they allow you in.
5. Ensure the kids wear any safety equipment at all times.
The traditional partyWhat is it? An at-home for the birthday child and friends, with traditional
games like pass the parcel (always a winner), pin the tail on the donkey,
and musical bumps.
Who’s it suitable for? Great for nursery and reception age children, but
don’t neglect its values for older kids, especially girls of eight or nine who
often enjoy nothing more than inviting their friends back to their house
and having a girly time. Newly launched Primrose Parties in Bedford also
caters specifically for girls aged 4–12 plus (www.primroseparties.co.uk).
The pros: It’s cheap (or at least, it certainly can be); other parents often
stay to help you out, keep you company, especially if you promise a glass
of prosecco to help everyone through.
The cons: You may need to redecorate afterwards; you’ll certainly need
to do a major tidy up. It can be di"cult to keep your birthday child’s
siblings out of the way, which could lead to conflict.
Top tips to make it work: 1. Agree ground rules with the birthday child beforehand about which
rooms are in and out of bounds.
2. Have a timetable for what’s happening when.
3. Think about a project, e.g. build-a-bear kits, jewellery making, pirate
games. Or consider bringing in someone like the Creation Station,
who can provide bespoke arts and crafts parties, tailored to your
child’s age and likes and your budget.
(more info: www.thecreationstation.co.uk)
4. Give them a chance to let o! steam in the garden.
5. For tea, spread a huge paper tablecloth on the floor and get them to
sit around the edges of it. At the end, simply fold it up with all the
rubbish inside and bin.
PARTIES
9Bedfordshirewww.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk
The church hall partyWhat is it? An indoor party in a hired venue, such as Trinity Arts & Leisure
in Bedford (tel 01234 291777) or the Stockwood Discovery Centre in
Luton (tel 01582 548600).
Who’s it suitable for? Children of five plus, who are confident about
being left somewhere they don’t know.
The pros: A lot more space than they’d have if you were at home.
The cons:You’ll have to leave the place spotless afterwards, and pay for
any damage.
Top tips to make it work: 1. Try to find somewhere with outdoor space as well in case it’s a lovely
day.
2. Ask if you can borrow/use playgroup play equipment.
3. Have lots of help, and have tea reasonably early in the afternoon so
you can get it tidied away before the end.
4. If you’ve got the budget, consider hiring an entertainer – the extra
space will make it a lot more fun.
5. Musical games, dancing, discos etc are great fun in church halls.
The restaurant partyWhat is it? A meal-based party in e.g. a pizza restaurant, where the kids
are allowed to help or watch in the food preparation.
Who’s it suitable for? Older kids of 8–12; children who enjoy the chance
to meet and chat more than the chance to run around.
The pros: At its best, it’s very civilised; you can even have a second table
in the restaurant and invite some other parents along, so it’s a meal out
for you as well. Children enjoy a sense of being ‘grown up’ and eating out
with friends.
The cons: It’s expensive; raucous behaviour will upset other diners.
Top tips to make it work: 1. Make sure you’re booked for a time when the restaurant won’t be
busy.
2. A restaurant near a park, where kids can run o! a bit of energy
afterwards, is a good idea.
3. Don’t rely on the pizza-making/chef-watching for absolutely
all the entertainment. Bring e.g. colouring packs or check
the restaurant will provide them, and think of some easy
games to play round the table, e.g. I-Spy, in case things
flag.
4. Make sure you sort out the cake arrangements before-
hand; most restaurants allow you to bring your own (don’t forget
the candles and matches).
5. Don’t limit yourself to chain restaurants – your local eaterie may well
be prepared to accommodate your party, and may be more flexible
than bigger establishments.
AND FINALLY.. .Whatever sort of party you’re having don’t neglect the party bags! Every
kid, at every party, is secretly (or not so secretly!) longing for a party bag
– and part of the excitement for your child is helping to put the bags
together. Have a budget and stick to it – party bags can add hugely to the
cost of a party – but try and limit the wasteful plastic toys that get thrown
away immediately.
See our online Children’s Parties Section for more top tips at:www.familiesonline.co.uk/ourbestpartytips
8 low cost party bags ideas: www.familiesonline.co.uk/lowcostpartybags
Check out the Families Bedfordshire Directory of party providers: www.familiesonline.co.uk/LOCATIONS/Bedfordshire/Directory
Parties forPrincessesages 4–12+
Primrose Partiesin Bedford, offersyour daughtera unique, creativeparty with the opportunity of making it truly bespokeand original.The parties include handmade costumes, fabulous inventive activities and creative crafts.
To book or for more information, please call Hayley on 07989 329046.
Email: [email protected] online: www.primroseparties.co.uk.
Introducing Bedfordshire’s New Indoor Play and Party Venue
Jungle Jim’s Playland LtdCelebrate and go wild in our new safe, clean,secure and fun Jungle with two level playframe and separate area for little cubs. Let us organise the best party with a hot orcold Jungle Feast. All parties have their owndedicated Jungle Ranger, Balloons on Sticks,Animal Face Masks, Party Games and more...
BOOK NOW:www.junglejimsplayland.co.uk
Tel: 01767 682808
HEALTH
Little StepsPhysiotherapy
Alison Shipp & Erin OakmanChildren’s Physiotherapy Practice
Covering Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire& Cambridgeshire
07961088392 / 07752088228www.littlestepsphysiotherapy.com
Email: [email protected]
Coeliac Awareness Week runs from 13–19May this year. The disease itself is believed tobe present in up to 1 in 100 of the population.However, only 10–15% of people with thiscondition are actually diagnosed with it. Oneof the reasons for this is because not every-one has symptoms, and in many people whodo, the symptoms might be very general e.g.lethargy or tummy upset.
It’s something parents often worry aboutand so is important to properly diagnose asthe treatment (gluten free diet) can make ahuge di!erent to the child.
The earliest time we might see it is in babieswho have been weaned onto cereals contain-ing gluten. There’s no way of knowing until achild has had gluten. Typical symptoms afterstarting gluten include:• bloated tummy • irritability • failure to grow properly when before
gluten introduction was doing fine • anaemia.
Some children have an increased risk of developing coeliac disease if there’s a familyhistory of it or if they have diabetes or autoimmune thyroid disease.
If you think your child has coeliac disease thefirst step is see your doctor and arrange ablood test. However, in order to do the test
the child must have been taking gluten everyday for six weeks. The test looks for anti-bodies to gluten, and they might not bepresent if the child has stopped gluten, so anegative test while o! gluten might befalsely reassuring.
If you feel you don’t want to restart glutenyet are sure your child has coeliac disease,then you need to speak to your doctor aboutit. It is ok to keep o! gluten, but after a timereintroduce it and see how the child is. Suchsymptoms might be due to an intolerancethat your child outgrows. Coeliac diseasehowever, is a lifelong diagnosis, which is whyproper and accurate testing needs to bedone to confirm it. Without positive testing,your GP might not prescribe you gluten freeproducts, so the six week challenge is worthdoing if your child copes with it.
If the blood test is positive, some childrenmight need a biopsy from their gut to confirm it. This decision will be discussedwith a paediatric gastroenterologist and normally is arranged if there is any doubt inthe diagnosis.
Treatment is a gluten free diet and youshould see a dietician for advice and ongoingfollow up.
For more information visit:www.coeliac.org.uk.
Bedford mum Fiona Cowan says: ‘I certainlydidn’t realise so with my son. Three years agowhen my son was in Reception, I was calledover by his teacher at pick up time and wasadvised to take him for an eye test as he hadcommented that he couldn’t see the white-board.
‘When I took him to the optician indeed he didhave a problem, but they would only prescribeglasses at half the strength required as the fullprescription would have been too much of ashock for him. We were then referred to theHospital’s Eye Clinic for a more detailed exam-ination where they prescribed full strengthglasses.
‘When I first knew he would need glasses, I decided that if the NHS glasses were as bad asthe ones that I remembered friends at school
Chocolate-tea fever recently arrived in Bedfordshire, with resident Susan Izzard (pictured, with helpers) hosting her first BigChocolate Tea Party for the charity The SickChildren’s Trust.
The event, which took place at her home inGamlingay during April, raised at least £400for two houses in Cambridge – Acorn Houseand Chestnut House – which support familiesof sick children being treated at Adden-brooke’s hospital and the Rosie hospital.
To join the campaign or to receive a BigChocolate Tea Party Pack, go to:www.sickchildrenstrust.org.Email: [email protected].
COELIAC DISEASE: it’s more common than you think
by Dr David Cremonesini, Consultant Paediatrician, BMI The Saxon Clinic, Milton Keynes
Could you tell if your child had a problem with their eyesight?
Chocolate-tea funraises more than £400
having, then I would pay for better ones. Whenwe looked at the frames available free on theNHS, I was amazed at how nice they were andto this day we have never had to pay for aframe. We have paid for a pair of prescriptionswimming goggles so that his vision is not reduced for swimming.
‘My son now has his sight checked every sixmonths at the hospital, with new glasses prescribed once a year. He knows he will neverbe able to be a pilot due to his eyesight but hecan now see as well as any other eight year old.
‘I do often wonder whether if his poor visionhad been noticed earlier and glasses prescribedthen his vision would not be as bad now, but Iwill never know.
‘Children have their eyesight tested in Recep-tion year at school and it is then your responsi-bility to get it checked every year at anoptician. Certainly I will always make sure mychildren have their eyes tested every year.’
More info: www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Hearing-and-vision-tests-for-children/Pages/Why-it-is-necessary.aspx.
www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk
HOW TO... GARDEN WITH KIDS
How to get the kids to grow thingsAs we reach for the back door, or open a window for the first time in sev-eral months, we may spot a da!odil emerging through the cold hardground, and just maybe the first sight of blue sky overhead – what bet-ter time to encourage your children to explore their environment anddiscover the world of gardening. Involving children in gardening can bea great and fun experience for everyone regardless of age. Children canreally get engrossed in planting and caring for flowers – even those withshorter attention spans! Most kids can’t get enough of the anticipationand excitement of waiting for a seed to sprout or a plant to grow, evenmaking mud pies, as all children find pleasure in a patch of soil they cancall their own. Imagine sparking the green fingers of little children, asyou point out the wonder of the natural environment around them. Andwhat better way to learn about photosynthesis, by watching it happen infront of your eyes! Show your child the magic of Mother Nature.
Getting StartedGardening doesn’t require a huge garden or allotment; in fact, it can actually be beneficial to start out with smaller spaces such as a windowbox or a restricted area. Just ensure that the allocated area gets enoughsunlight and start with a small, manageable project. It needn’t cost a lotof money either – you don’t need to buy anything special or fancy, andif you grow your own fruit and veg then you’ll ultimately be making asaving!
Start with margarine tubs, yoghurt pots, and any other small containersyou might find lying around the house. Instead of fancy trays with separate sections, you’ll find just as much use in empty egg cartons. A lollypop stick can make a great plant label and can be used when dip-ping out seedlings. And what about a water pistol instead of a wateringcan. Who would have thought watering the plants could be so much fun!
Opportunity to learnThere is so much for children to learn. Explain to younger children thatthe seeds have popped underground and been covered up to sleep, help-ing them understand that they need to be gentle with them and treatthem with care. Make sure they know to water regularly and then sitback and watch it grow.
You don’t have to be green fingered yourself, gardening opens up awhole host of great experiments and di!erent ways of looking at things,almost like having your own laboratory in your kitchen. A good idea toshow how plants need time to grow, lots of sunshine and water is to growthree separate pots of cress. Place one in sunlight with plenty of water,one in a dark cupboard with plenty of water, and one in sunlight with nowater. The di!erence will be there to see.
Inspire their sensesWe all have a particular fondness for plants which stimulate our sensesand children are no di!erent; point out plants with soft leaves and brightflowers, aromatic herbs, scented flowers, grasses and leaves that rustlewhen blown, etc. These can be particularly beneficial for children withspecial needs and requirements.
Plants attract wildlife, which can be hugely exciting. Wildflowers attractbees and butterflies, and watch out for the insects. All of them have apurpose in the garden, for example hedgehogs and toads eat the slugsand snails, and worms create holes in the soil.
Kids will eat anything they have grown themselves, just try with peas,cabbage and lettuce. Sheer pride will lend a flavour never to be forgot-ten. They will realise that whenever they eat yummy fruit and vegeta-bles that someone had to grow them and that we can all grow our ownfresh foods.
Prepare for mess!Gardening isn’t a clean business but its lots of fun and easy enough forchildren to get to grips with. So peel your children away from the TV andexplore the garden – touch the flowers, feel the leaves, and look for bugs.Once they get in the garden and explore, in time they will want to takecare of the plants they have learned to love and really gain pleasurealong the way.
Enjoy!We recommend The Family Kitchen Garden by Karen Liebreich, JuttaWagner and Annette Wendland (14 May 2009).
HOW TO... GARDEN WITH KIDS by Elizabeth Dolton
11Bedfordshire
OPEN MORNING
Saturday 11 May, 10am
Bedford School,
De Parys Avenue, Bedford
Tel: 01234 362200
or www.bedfordschool.org.uk.
DAWN CHORUS FOR
LATE RISERS ! A BIRD WALK
Saturday 11 May, 7 –10am
Forest of Marston Vale
Marston Moretaine, Bedford
Find out all sorts of amazing
things about the spring migrants
and residents that are burbling
away in the Country Park.
Meet at Forest Centre Reception.
Tickets £3; £1 reduction for
children, concessions, volunteers
and members.
Booking essential: 01234 767037.
BRITISH ALPACA SOCIETY
NATIONAL SHOW
11–12 May, 10am–4pm
Bury Farm Equestrian Village,
Slapton, Mill Lane,
nr Leighton Buzzard
A fantastic funday in aid of the
educational charity Amantani.
Free.
www.buryfarmestates.co.uk
WHAT’S ON
12
BLUEBELLS & SPRING BIRDS
Saturday 11 May, 11am–1pm
RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy
This walk will show the reserve at
its best, as the trees are blooming,
flowers are blooming and birds are
singing.
Adults £5, RSPB members £4,
children £3, RSPB Wildlife
Explorers £2
Tel: 01767 680541.
FOOTBALL FUNDAY
Saturday 11 May,
10.30–11.30am
Barton Library
Free football activities.
Bedfordshire
Please always phone before
setting out in case details have
changed since press deadline or
if we got it wrong.
Please send events to be listed to:
MAYCREATION STATION
Tuesday mornings, 10.30am
The Scout Hut, Marston Moretaine
Friday mornings, 9.50am & 11am
Flitton and Greenfield Village Hall
Weekly events for pre-school
children.
To book: email louiseplatt@
thecreationstation.co.uk
or call 0844 854 9178.
MID BEDS NCT ! ‘BUMPS,
BABIES AND BEYOND’
Wednesday afternoons, 1–3 pm
Flitwick Village Hall
Drop-in group for parents-to-be
and parents with babies.
NCT breastfeeding counsellor
available during term time.
Suggested donation £2 per week.
Refreshments provided.
LITTLE LAMBS CLUB
Every Thursday 10am–12noon,
term time only
Dunstable Downs,
Chilterns Gateway Centre,
Whipsnade Road, Dunstable
Enjoy a chat with other mums as
the kids enjoy some creative play!
Suitable for children under 5yrs.
Small donations for material costs
are welcomed.
PRINCE & PRINCESSES
4–6 May
Thurleigh Farm Centre,
Cross End, Thurleigh
www.thurleighfarmcentre.co.uk
X FEST
4–6 May
Santa Pod Race Course,
Airfield Road, Podington,
Wellingborough
For fans of in-line skating, skate-
boarding, BMX’ing, scooters, and
mountain bikes!
More info: www.xfest.co.uk.
MIKE THE KNIGHT
AT MEAD OPEN FARM
Saturday 4 May
Mead Open Farm,
Stanbridge Road, Billington
Children’s TV favourite Mike The
Knight will be making a special
visit to Mead Open Farm!
Included in entry price.
www.meadopenfarm.co.uk
or call 01525 852 954.
INDIA COMES TO
BEDFORDSHIRE AGAIN!
5 –6 May
Page’s Park Station, Billington
Road, Leighton Buzzard
The Leighton Buzzard Railway
and the Darjeeling Himalayan
Railway Society will join forces
again to pay tribute to the narrow-
gauge railways of India.
Tel: 01525 373888
or www.buzzrail.co.uk.
13www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk
STEAM FAIR
& COUNTRY SHOW
11–12 May, 10.30am–5pm
Stotfold Mill, Mill Lane, Stotfold
Fun fair, arena displays, steam
engines, milling and more!
Adults £6; children 4–16 & senior
citizens £3; under 4s free.
www.stotfoldmill.com
SUPERHEROES & FAIRIES DAY
Saturday 11 May
Snakes and Ladders,
Blackburn Road, Houghton Regis,
Dunstable
Tiny Tinkerbells, budding Batmen,
and wannabe Wonder Women are
invited for a day of magical fun.
Free entry with a Facebook voucher
for adults accompanied by a child in
fancy dress, from:
www.facebook.com/
snakesandladdersDunstable.
www.snakes-and-ladders.co.uk/
events.html
FUN DOG SHOW & ANNIVER"
SARY CELEBRATIONS
Sunday 12 May, 12–4.30pm
HULA Animal Rescue,
South Midlands Animal Sanctuary,
Glebe Farm, Salford Road,
Aspley Guise
Dog show classes for all. Dog photo
competition. Charity bazaar. Fun
and games for children.
Free Parking. Admission: £2 adults;
accompanied children £1.
Tel: 01908 584000.
www.hularescue.org
or email: [email protected]
MUSEUMS AT NIGHT
16–18 May, 5–9pm
Wardown Park Museum,
Old Bedford Road, Luton
Experience Wardown Park
Museum at twilight with fun
family activities. Free. Small dona-
tions may apply to some activities.
TODDLER TIME
Friday 17 May,
10 –11am & 12 –1pm
Stockwood Discovery Centre,
London Road, Luton
Fun and creative activities.
Aged 3–5 years; Free.
Booking: 01582 548600.
THE SNOW QUEEN
Saturday 18 May,
2pm & 6.30pm
Luton Library Theatre
5+ years. Kumar’s friend embarks
on a journey to rescue him from
the Snow Queen.
£5 children, £8 adults, £22 family.
www.lutonculture.com/
luton-library-theatre
NCT NEARLY NEW SALE !
DUNSTABLE & DISTRICT
Saturday 18 May,
11.45am–1pm
Watling Lower School,
Bullpond Lane, Dunstable
Entry £1 per adult.
For more info, email Nicola:
or tel 07904 315117
or 0844 243 6112.
STACK UK KITE
COMPETITION
18 May–19 May, 10.30am–5pm
Dunstable Downs,
Chilterns Gateway Centre,
Whipsnade Road, Dunstable
Kite Competition taking place over
two days, plus family fun week-
end with craft stalls, fun fair.
To book: tel 01582 500920
or email dunstabledowns@
nationaltrust.org.uk.
RSPB SPRING FAIR
18 May–19 May, 10am–5pm
RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy
Treat yourself to exciting gifts,
crafts, plants and produce along
WHAT’S ON
with some fun activities for the
children.
Price: £1 per car; some small
charges for activities.
More info: tel 01767 680541.
BUTTERFLY WALKS
18 May & 25 May, 11am–1pm
Meet at the Chiltern Gateway
Centre, Dunstable Downs,
Whipsnade Road, Dunstable
Fun, informative guided walk to
look for butterflies.
All tickets £2 per person.
To book: tel 01582 500920
or email dunstabledowns@
nationaltrust.org.uk.
TEDDY BEARS’ OUTING
Sunday 19 May
Leighton Buzzard Railway,
Page’s Park Station,
Billington Road, Leighton Buzzard
Lots of bear-themed activities,
competitions and displays, plus
kids travel free if they bring a bear
and a fare-paying adult.
www.buzzrail.co.uk
THE MAIN
24 –27 May
Santa Pod Race Course,
Airfield Road, Podington,
Wellingborough
Top level Drag Racing, plus fun for
all the family.
Kids under 16 go free!
www.santapod.co.uk/e_main.php
BIRDS 4 BEGINNERS
Friday 24 May, 10am–3pm
RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy
Helping beginners to identify birds.
Bring a packed lunch.
Adults £5, RSPB members £4,
children £3, RSPB Wildlife
Explorers £2.
Booking essential: 01767 680541.
MARVELLOUS MEAT"EATERS
25 May–2 June, all day
Whipsnade Zoo, Dunstable
A week celebrating the Zoo’s
carnivores.
www.zsl.org/zsl-whipsnade-zoo
THE GRUFFALO
25 May–2 June
Thurleigh Farm Centre,
Cross End, Thurleigh
Take one of the timetabled tractor
trailer rides up to the Wacky Woods
and help to become part of the
Gru!alo story.
Included in entrance price.
www.thurleighfarmcentre.co.uk
Bedfordshire
WHAT’S ON
14 Bedfordshire [email protected]
THOMAS THE TANK ENGINE
Saturday 25 May, 11am–12 noon
Kempston Library
Stories and crafts for all the family.
WIMPY KID
HALF"TERM COMPETITION
Saturday 25 May
Barton Library
Design your own cartoon strip and
Wimpy Kid character. Best entry
wins a prize.
ROBIN HOOD AND HIS
VERY MERRY MEN
Saturday 25 May, 2pm
Luton Library Theatre
4+ years. An exhilarating, interac-
tive family adventure featuring live
music and puppetry.
£5 per child; first adult free,
£6.50 additional adults.
www.lutonculture.com/
luton-library-theatre
INTERNATIONAL KITE
FESTIVAL
25–26 May, 10am–6pm (Sat) &
10am–5pm (Sun)
Russell Park, Bedford
Kites from the four corners of the
world; together with adult and
children’s workshops in the
marquee.
www.bedfordevents.co.uk
LUTON CARNIVAL
Sunday 26 May, 12–6pm
Starts: Wardown Park,
Old Bedford Road, Luton
www.carnivalarts.org.uk/
Carnival2013.aspx
WREST AT WAR!
26–27 May, 11am–5pm
Wrest Park, Silsoe
Experience the theatre of war from
all quarters at Wrest Park. From
WWI trenches to the WWII D-Day
landings, experience life in
tumultuous times, with music and
performance and lots of fun for all
the family!
Adults £10, concessions £9,
children £6, families £26.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/
wrest-park
SAM TASTIC
AT MEAD OPEN FARM
27–31 May
Mead Open Farm,
Stanbridge Road, Billington
Children’s entertainer Sam Tastic
will be at Mead Open Farm with his
fantastic shows! Lots of games,
amazing balloon modelling, high
energy fun and crazy dancing as
well. Included in entry price.
More info: 01525 852 954 or
www.meadopenfarm.co.uk.
AWESOME ARCHAEOLOGY!
28–31 May, 11am–4pm
Wrest Park, Silsoe
Let the kids get stuck into history
with the chance to uncover clues
and handle artefacts. Take part in a
sand pit dig to unveil secrets from
the past. Plus plenty of hands on
activities.
Adults £8.80, concessions £7.90,
children £5.30, family ticket £22.90.
All children are welcome to join in
the Time Travellers Go… events. An
additional £1 will be charged on
standard admission for every child,
member and non member.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/
wrest-park
THE ELEPHANT BRIDESMAID
Tuesday 28 May, 2.30pm
The Grove Theatre, Grove Park,
Court Drive, Dunstable
The Elephant Bridesmaid is a
musical about weddings and
wombats and the loveliest
elephant the world has ever known!
www.grovetheatre.co.uk
KITES AND WINDSOCKS
Tuesday 28 May, sessions at
10–11.15am, 11.30am–12.45pm
& 1.30–2.45pm
(20 children per session)
Forest of Marston Vale,
Marston Moretaine, Bedford
Make your own kite or windsock
out of recycled materials. Then
bring it on a test flight or flutter in
the park.
£3.50 per child. All children must
be accompanied by an adult.
More info or to book:
tel 01234 767037 or email
ONCE UPON A TIME…
Tuesday 28 May, 2.30–3.15pm
Sundon Park Library
Wednesday 29 May,
11–11.45am Lewsey Library
Thursday 30 May, 11–11.45am
Marsh Farm Library
Thursday 30 May, 2–2.45pm
Luton Central Library
Thursday 30 May, 2.15–3pm
Leagrave Library
Friday 31 May, 3.30–4.15pm
Bury Park Library
Saturday 1 June, 11–11.45am
Stopsley Library
Saturday 1 June, 2.15–3pm
Wigmore Library
Tales of Jack the Giant Killer, and
other fairytale favourites, with
crafts and games.
5+ years. Free. Drop in.
www.lutonculture.com/
luton-library-theatre
ST FRANCIS’ CHILDREN’S
SOCIETY PHOTOSHOOT
Tuesday 28 May, 10am–2pm
Woolstone, Milton Keynes
Milton Keynes families are invited
to spend a few hours doing a
photo shoot in return for some
stunning family pictures to keep
forever.
Wendy Grant, accomplished fine
art photographer, has donated her
services to provide images for
informational material and
publicity for this adoption charity.
More info: 01908 572700 or email
a picture with your contact details
CIRCUS WORKSHOP
Tuesday 28 May, 2–3pm
The Rufus Centre, Flitwick
Aimed at children aged 6–10
years. Have a go at lots of di!erent
circus skills. From plate spinning to
tub stilts and other balancing
skills!
Tickets: £5.50, incl refreshments.
Pre-book on 01525 631900.
CAPTAIN UNDERPANTS
Wednesday 29 May, 3–5pm
Wootton Library
Fabulous Captain Underpants fun
for everyone.
BE A PRINCE OR A PRINCESS!
Thursday 30 May,
8.45am–12noon (£5 per child) &
2–4pm (£3.50 per child)
The Rufus Centre, Flitwick
Make your own crown to wear at
the Coronation Celebration on
2 June, hunt for the Queen’s
treasure, crafts, games, biscuit
decorating and more!
Pre-book on 01525 631900.
WHAT’S THAT WARBLER?
Thursday 30 May, 10am–12noon
RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy
Listening to the songs of the
warblers that breed at The Lodge
and giving tips on how to identify
them on this walk around the
reserve.
Adults £4, RSPB members £3,
children £3, RSPB Wildlife
Explorers £2.
More info: tel 01767 680541.
15Bedfordshirewww.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk
STEAM ON THE MARSTON
VALE LINE!
Thursday 30 May
The Buxton Spa Express day trip
stops at Bletchley and
Bedford on its way to Buxton.
www.railwaytouring.net/
uk-day-trips/buxton-spa-express
WIMPY KID CHAOS
Thursday 30 May, 3–4pm
Toddington Library
Fabulous, free Wimpy Kid fun for
everyone.
BEAUTIFUL BUTTERFLIES
Friday 31 May, sessions at
10–11.15am, 11.30am–12.45pm
& 1.30–2.45pm
(20 children per session)
Forest of Marston Vale,
Marston Moretaine, Bedford
Find out what butterflies you could
see in the park and make a butterfly
headdress or hat.
£3.50 per child. All children must be
accompanied by an adult.
More info or to book:
tel 01234 767037 or email
JUNETEDDY TIME
Saturday 1 June, 11am & 2pm
Luton Library Theatre
Bring your teddy along and see two
classic fairytales. 4–7 years. £5 per
child; first adult free,
£6.50 additional adults.
TEDDY BEARS PICNIC
WEEKEND
1–2 June, 10.30am–5pm
Gullivers Land, Milton Keynes
Bring your teddy for a day out.
Teddy gets in free and gets you a £1
discount o! admission per child per
teddy. www.gulliversfun.co.uk
CORONATION CELEBRATION
DAY
Sunday 2 June, 12–4pm
Rufus Centre Field, Flitwick
Family fun as part of Flitwick
Festival 2013.
Fabulous food stalls, beer tent, live
entertainment, children’s activities.
Adult entry £1, children 50p.
KEECH SUPERHEROES
RUNNING EVENT
Sunday 2 June, 11.30am
Stockwood Discovery Centre,
London Road, Luton
Sponsored 5k running event for
the whole family and all budding
heroes out there!
www.keech.org.uk/superheroes
BABY TIME
Monday 3 June, 10–11am
Stockwood Discovery Centre,
London Road, Luton
Sensory play for babies and
younger toddlers.
Ages 0–2 years; £3.
Book on: 01582 548600.
TODDLER TIME
Friday 7 June, 10–11am
Wardown Park Museum,
Old Bedford Road, Luton
Fun and creative activities.
3–5 years; £3.
Book on: 01582 546722.
DANCE, DANCE, DANCE:
ANGELINA BALLERINA’S
BIRTHDAY PARTY
Saturday 8 June
Leagrave Library 11–11.45am
Luton Central Library 2–2.45pm
Saturday 15 June, 2.15–3pm
Marsh Farm Library
4+ years. Free. Drop in.
Mouse tales & mouse crafts.
A DAY TRIP TO THE ZOO!
Saturday 8 June, 10am–6pm
West Bletchley Carnival,
Rickely Park, Milton Keynes
Free.
www.westbletchleycouncil.gov.uk
CHILLI FIESTA
8–9 June, 10.30am–4pm
Mansion House,
Old Warden Park, Biggleswade
Cookery demonstrations, chilli
stands and fun for the kids
featuring Fireman Sam and Peppa
Pig look alikes!
To book tickets tel 01767 626262.
www.themansionhouse.org
ACTION DAY
Wednesday 12 June
Bedford Modern School,
Manton Lane, Bedford
Tour of the school during a normal
working day.
To book a place:
tel 01234 332500 or email
GREAT DAY OUT BY TRAIN
Saturday 15 June
Great day out from Bletchley–
Bedford to East Grinstead and the
newly opened extended steam
train journey to She"eld Park on
the Bluebell Railway.
Optional extra visit to She"eld
Park Gardens.
www.bbrua.org.uk/events.htm
ORCHID HUNT & NATURE
WALK
Saturday 15 June, 11am–1pm
Meet at the Chiltern Gateway
Centre, Dunstable Downs,
Whipsnade Road, Dunstable
Join this fantastic walk and
discover the natural gems of the
Downs. Hopefully the orchids will
be in full bloom!
All Tickets £2 per person.
Car parking charge of £2 applies.
Booking essential: 01582 500925.
POLAM GARDEN PARTY:
90th ANNIVERSARY
Saturday 15 June, 1–3pm
Polam School,
45 Lansdowne Road, Bedford
Book at: www.polamschool.co.uk/
90th.html.
FATHERS’ DAY
Sunday 16 June
Leighton Buzzard Railway,
Page’s Park Station,
Billington Road, Leighton Buzzard
Free ride with the driver of a steam
train for all fare-paying dads!
www.buzzrail.co.uk
WHAT’S ON
WHAT’S ON
BEN & HOLLY’S
LITTLE KINGDOM
19 –20 June, 1pm & 4.30pm
Bedford Corn Exchange,
St Paul’s Square, Bedford
www.bedfordcornexchange.co.uk
THE HIGGINS BEDFORD
RE"OPENS!
Friday 21 June, dawn to dusk!
The Higgins Bedford,
Castle Lane, Bedford
www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk
SENSE AND SENSIBILITY
Friday 21 June, 7.30pm
Gates open at 6.45pm
Wrest Park, Silsoe
Bring your chairs, picnics and
friends to enjoy an enchanting
evening of outdoor theatre at its
best. Adults £15, concessions £13,
children £13.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/
wrestpark
NATIONAL BOOKSTART WEEK
24–28 June, various times &
locations across Luton
Weekly ‘Time for a Rhyme’
sessions to celebrate National
Bookstart Week. Free. Drop in.
www.lutonculture.com
PICNIC IN THE PARK
Wednesday 26 June,
10am–2pm
Wardown Park, Old Bedford
Road, Luton
Fun activities targeted at the
under-5s, plus over 100 early
years providers and community
organisations in attendance
o!ering a range of essential
information to parents.
Parking: £1 on Popes Meadow.
www.luton.gov.uk
JAMBOREE WEEKEND
29–30 June, 10.30am–5pm
Gullivers, Milton Keynes
Calling all Scouts, Beavers, Cubs,
Guides, Brownies and Rainbows.
If you run a group then this is your
invitation to join Gullivers on their
Jamboree weekend. Open to the
public as well.
Reserve a place on 01925 4448
or www.gulliversfun.co.uk.
DANCE, DANCE, DANCE:
ANGELINA BALLERINA’S
BIRTHDAY PARTY
Saturday 29 June,
Wigmore Library 11–11.45am
Stopsley Library 2.15–3pm
Mouse tales and mouse crafts.
4+ years. Free. Drop in.