Families Cheshire Issue 13 Sept-Oct 11

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In this issue>Back to school special>Out of school clubs &classes

>Mothers’ guilt - go on,hang up your halo!

Edition 13 • September/October 2011 The local magazine for families with children 0-12 years

Covering: Poynton, Wilmslow, Alderley Edge, Knutsford, Prestbury, Macclesfield, Congleton, Holmes Chapel, Sandbach,Northwich, Winsford, Crewe, Nantwich, Tarporley, Cotton Abbots, Waverton, Chester and surrounding areas

www.familiescheshire.co.uk

WelcomeHooray! It’s back to school and we’ll finally be able to find a bit of time tocatch up with the myriad of tasks that we just couldn’t get to do over summer.For those of you with children starting nursery/reception/secondary school –it’s a scary but exciting and emotional time we know! Our Back To Schoolfeature has some good advice for you on what to expect.

With the start of the new school year, it’s also the time to look at various out of schoolclubs and classes – and there are some great ones available in our area. Not only forschool-going children of course, but for babies and toddlers too.

And do make sure you read “Mothers’ Guilt” on page 16 – we found it enlighteningand oh so true. We’re the first to hold up our hands and declare that we’re not perfect(as much as we expect our husbands to believe we are). But our kids still believewe’re “the best mummy in the world” – so we must be doing something right!

Till next time

2 Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

Locally speaking

In this issue02: Locally speaking06: Back to school14: Parents’ place

17: Baby & toddler20: Clubs & classes25: What’s on

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

Next issue: November/December 2011.

Circulation: 25,000 copies of Families Cheshire areavailable through nurseries, schools, libraries, selectedshops and other points throughout Cheshire. If youwould like free copies for your organisation, please let us know.

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

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

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

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

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

Families Cheshire is part of the Families group, establishedin 1990 and headed by Families South West. Allfranchised magazines in the group are independentlyowned and operated under license.

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

Don’t forget to join us at theMother’s Instinct Baby & Toddlershow at The Waterside Hotel inDidsbury (M20 5WZ) on Sunday 11September from 12noon till 5pm.

It’s guaranteed to be a greatafternoon jam-packed withentertainment and displays for both

children and parents. There’ll be stallsfrom retailers and nurseries, kiddieclubs and classes, with special showday offers and competitions. Entry isfree and open to all – do come alongand say hello!

Mother’s Instinct Baby & Toddlershow – FREE ENTRY!

And the T-reX Factor winners are…Jess Thomas, Lauren Lochrie andRosie Barcas.

The trio have been appointed as the new‘dinosaur keepers’ at Chester Zoo, beatingoff competition from a host of otherapplicants to earn the task of looking after 13life-size animatronic dinosaurs that featurein the zoo’s Dinosaurs at Large! exhibition.

Jess Thomas, a 28-year-old qualifiedteacher, said: “As occupational hazards go,they don’t get much worse than comingface to face with a Tyrannosaurus Rex everyday. But, I’ve had scarier work colleaguesand bosses in the past so I’m sure I’ll beable to handle it.”

As well as being on-hand to teach visitors

all about the pre-historic creatures, thedinosaur keepers are tasked withperforming regular ‘health’ checks on them.

Jess added: “I suppose, in terms ofcaring for them, it’s a little bit like beinga keeper of most of the other animalshere. The biggest difference is, we feedour dinosaurs compressed air ratherthan fruit, veg and meat!”

Stephen McKeown, the zoo’s Head ofDiscovery and Learning, was part of therecruitment team. He said: “We’re prettysure it’s the first time anyone has advertisedfor Dinosaur Keepers and so the interestcame from far and wide and from peopleof all ages. You could say these jobs havebeen 65 million years in the making, sothe girls that have deservedly got themare unsurprisingly, very excited.”

Dinosaurs at Large! is open until Oct 8and entry is free with normal zoo admission.Visitors go on an adventure through apre-historic park and encounter 13 life-sized and incredibly realisticanimatronic dinosaurs on the way. It’sthe first time ever that these dinos, fromAmerica, have been in a zoo in UK.

Dinosaur Keepers start work at Chester Zoo

A new Channel 4 documentary seriescelebrating the many stages of lovewill examine the experiences of step-families in the Manchester area.Aiming to shed light on the universaljoys of love, this film will celebratethe process of bringing two familiestogether for the first time.

If you and your partner are mergingtwo young families to create a new one,

The Garden Productions would love tohear your story.

From the team that brought you theBAFTA award-winning series One BornEvery Minute and 24 Hours in A&E onChannel 4, this new series about lovewill “reflect relationships throughout alifetime – from first kiss to final farewelland everything else in between,” saysEmma Tutty of The Garden Productions.“Across the generations, we will explorewhat it really means to be in love.”

For more information, please [email protected] orcall The Garden on 020 34659060. Calling does not obligeyou to take part in the series.

Channel 4 Looking for Step Families in the Manchester Area

Jayne Keep Caryl Hall

3www.familiescheshire.co.uk | Families Cheshire

Locally speaking

The Marlborough Primary School in Tytherington,Macclesfield (SK10 2HJ) is hosting its next car boot saleon 16 October from 11am to 1pm. Pitches cost just £5and can be booked by calling Debbie on 07702171612. With the kids back at school, now’s the perfecttime for a good clear out!

Marlborough Car Boot Sale

As part of a business enterpriseinitiative, Year 6 pupils at VernonPrimary School in Poynton raised animpressive £521 from their charity funday at the end of the last school year.

The pupils had to set up their own smallbusiness and develop it over a period ofmonths before putting it to a money raisingtest on the fun day. The children also had

to bid for which charities they wanted thefunds to go to. The three charities selectedwere Manchester Children’s Hospital,Endangered Animals and Cancer Researchand all have been given a share of the totalfunds raised.

At a special school assembly, a giantcheque was presented to Angela Harris ofManchester Children’s Hospital, who alsotalked to the children about the work carriedout there. Angela said “I was delighted tobe contacted by the school and to hearabout the Year 6 fund raising. It has been apleasure to come along and meet thepupils and to be able to share with them howtheir donation can be of benefit to us.”

Vernon’s Charity Fun Day

With an abundance of options availablewhen looking for a children’sentertainer, it can sometimes turninto quite a mind boggling processto pick an individual entertainmentpackage – from craft activities, actionpacked games or a pony or two inthe garden – which option wouldappeal the most?

Well, at Once Upon A Pony, childrenget the opportunity to combine all theseactivities into the ultimate party orentertainment experience at your home orchosen venue. With all parties and activityvisits hosted by a fully qualified earlyyears practitioner, you can sit back andrelax, while the children are captivatedwith a great range of individual and teamgames, craft activities and the most gentleand endearing ponies to ride, groom andpamper. Every child in attendance at aOnce Upon A Pony event will experienceplenty of individual attention and

encouragement to ensure they’re made tofeel completely at ease and truly special.

In addition to providing a fullentertainment package, your outdoor spacecan be transformed into an enchantingparty backdrop, with beautifully decoratedgazebos, fabric bunting, garlands, balloons,bubbles and pretty accessories allsupplied and erected so all that you needto do is provide the food and watch asthe children participate in a day that willprovide lasting treasured memories.

So, if you’re looking for something extraspecial to entertain your child and theirguests at a forthcoming birthday/gardenparty or would like to share an activityvisit with a group of friends, Once UponA Pony will ensure all your needs areperfectly met. Visit their website atwww.onceuponapony.co.uk or call07575 971375 to discuss yourpersonal requirements.

Luxury fun filled children’sentertainment for boys and girls

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

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

• All candidates are thoroughly vetted, interviewed and reference checked

• Home visits, to enable us to fully understand your requirements

Leading Nanny agency throughout Cheshire and North West

Achieving the difference...

Bespoke Pony Parties and Miniature Ponies for Every Occasion

Once Upon A Pony

www.onceuponapony.co.uk

[email protected]: 07575 971375


Locally speaking

Polarn O. Pyret of Sweden hascracked the dilemma for parentseverywhere this autumn. The coatsolution that can handle warm, windy,raining, snowing and freezing.

How? Flexible, lightweight, high-tec layersthat are waterproof, windproof and mostimportantly for active children... breathable.

The windproof, water resistant soft

fleece jacket fixes into the shell jacketwhen winter weather arrives. The thumb-holes stop sleeves riding up... and kidsjust love these!

Their philosophy has not changed forover 35 years – children need clothesthey can play in and parents need hardwearing coats that look good, feel goodand will last all year from Septemberthrough to summer showers.

Wind and water resistant Fleece Jacketsells from £35. Water and Windproof Coatsells from £59.

Find Polarn O. Pyret in House of Fraser,Manchester or online atwww.polarnopyret.co.uk

The coat to last all seasons

Heyday Pre-School, located on WaterStreet in Bollington is soon set toenjoy a lovely new garden area for thechildren to play in.

The pre-school is located within an oldschool building which is also shared withother users. The outside area is also sharedwhich has resulted in the past in oil spills andmess left from people out dog walking. Asa result the area had become unsafe for thechildren. An appeal was made to CheshireEast Council which resulted in an area beingfenced off for use of the pre-school only.

The proposed ‘Caterpillar Garden’ willinclude a soft play area; a small sensorygarden and various painted shapes on theground to encourage traditional games such

as hop scotch/number games etc. A seriesof brightly coloured circles will be createdusing various floor finishes and surroundedby simple troughs containing shrubs, herbsand seasonal flowers. Each circle will providea different agenda, for instance bright greenastro-turf for sitting and improving motor skillsand active play for the younger children,with other coloured circles painted directlyon to the floor to encourage active play forthe older children.

Children and their families will be engagedin the planning, developing (planting andcultivating) and maintaining of this outdoorplay area and the ‘Caterpillar Garden’ willprovide a strong curriculum theme for thePre School, documented by photographs;sketches and anecdotes using children andtheir families’ own words.

The main cost so far has been the safeguarding of the environment for the children.Heyday had to spend £1,500 to get a fenceproperly erected to Ofsted regulations.Research continues in obtaining pricing forthe furnishings including the soft play.

The Caterpillar Garden at Heyday Pre-School

Red House Farm’s Maize Maze is stillopen for family fun! The Maze coversmore than six acres of field and hasbeen created by cutting a design outof maize or corn in the shape of a 75metre tall cowboy on a horse. It alsohosts a laserquest game – orMazerquest as it’s been dubbed!

The amazing Maize Maze is just oneof many unique attractions at the farmwhich sits in the heart of DunhamMassey, just a few minutes fromAltrincham, Hale, Bowdon or Sale andjust a few miles from the M56 and M6.Owned and run by the Clare family forover 100 years the farm is simply a greatrelaxed fun day out in the country withsomething for visitors of all ages.

Jonny Hewitt, the farm’s Director ofFun, comments: “Families today spendso much time being busy at work orschool or rushing from one activity orappointment to the next. What we’re ableto give children and their parents is anopportunity to slow down, have fun in asafe environment, take pleasure fromplaying, get grubby and just enjoy thepace and quality of life on a real, workingfarm. We want to become theneighbourhood farm for families inManchester and Cheshire, whether theywant to pop in for a slice of cake and acuppa, to get lost in the Maze or just tofill their lungs with a bit of fresh farm air!”

Admission to Red House Farm is£6.50 per day for adults and children and£3 for children aged 2 – 4. Childrenunder 2 are free.

A-maizing Wild West Maize Maze higher than ever!

Mosaic Children’s Therapy Centre,based in Davenham, Northwich, isan independent OccupationalTherapy assessment and treatmentservice designed for children andyoung people with additionalneeds. It provides support forchildren with a range of difficultiesfrom sensory processing andautism to developmentalcoordination disorder.

An in depth evaluation is used todetermine the root cause of a child’sdifficulty, using standardisedassessments, observation and clinicaljudgement. Take the complicated taskof handwriting; is the difficulty due toinsufficient postural stability, spatialawareness, control of muscles in thehand or something else?

Specific activities are then designedto assist individual children tomaximise their skills with dailyactivities. This may be anything fromriding a bike, coping with organisationin school, making a simple meal togetting dressed.

For further information pleasecontact Kathryn on 01606 40195, ortake a look at the websitemosaicchildrenstherapy.co.uk

New Children’sTherapy Centre

Pupils and teachers at GreatBudworth CE Primary Schoolcelebrated recently when they wereofficially welcomed in to London2012’s Get Set network, inrecognition of their commitment tothe Olympic and Paralympic Values.

The London Organising Committeeof the Olympic Games and ParalympicGames (LOCOG) awarded the school aplaque and certificate to acknowledgetheir involvement in the London 2012education programme. They are now apart of an active London 2012community of schools and collegesacross the UK - the Get Set network -and will receive access to exclusivecompetitions and 2012 Games relatedopportunities over the coming years.

Chris Story from the Vale RoyalSchools Sports Partnership said: ‘Thisis an excellent example of how London2012 is helping to spark youngpeople’s imagination and inspiringthem to get involved and make adifference. They have clearlydemonstrated that London 2012’seducation programme extends farbeyond PE and sport and I hope theywill motivate other young people to jointheir journey.’

Sebastian Coe, chairman of LOCOG,said: “I am proud to welcome GreatBudworth CE Primary School into theGet Set network for their exciting workaround the Olympic Values offriendship, excellence and respect andthe Paralympic Values of inspiration,courage, determination and equality.”

The Just-So-Festival is inBarnswood, near Leek. We had aday ticket last year; and booked acamping ticket this time.

A week before, I remembered I hatecamping. Sure enough, it took us fourhours to pitch the tent (going home toget another tent), our two year old‘helping’ by chasing his sister with themallet and muttering ‘hammer,hammer, hammer’ under his breath.

However, once we left our glade andfound the festival, sprawled overclearings and crannies, the kids were inheaven and Maisie and Rileyimmediately (and delightedly) trackedthe fairy queen down the ‘rainbow trail’. Over three days we did…

Story writing, Hula-hooping, outlawtraining, lantern making, rocketlaunching, book signing, discodancing, hide-and-seek, sandcastlemaking, donkey riding, bear-hunting,Gruffalo catching, wheel-barrow racing,

choral lullabies, drumming, dressingup, cat-walking, bug hunting, Elmerspotting, ambushing, game playing,picnicking, capoeira and painting …

We took in a photography class, twopuppet shows (my favourite, thestunningly ethereal Flyaway Katie), acomedian and a duo talking andrapping about the solar system(fascinated Maisie for two hours) …

And there was much more we didn’tget round to, including the bands. Aftersettling on our blanket, the first chordrang out and both children clappedtheir hands over their ears. Maisieannounced she might like that kind ofmusic ‘when you’re 100, mummy’.

Would I recommend Just-So? Well,on Sunday we had two children who‘never wanted to go home’.

And I might even camp again.

Mrs Sandra Finney, Headteachersaid: “We are excited about London2012 as this may be a once in alifetime opportunity to become involvedin the Olympic Games in our country.Sharing in the excitement of the Gamescould inspire some of our children totake their sport further with the desire toone day become Olympic Championsthemselves. We would also like to usethe opportunity to learn some life skillswhilst looking at how a country hostssuch a massive event.”

Great Budworth Primary and Pre-Schoolis holding an open day on 5 October.Meet with the Headteacher and membersof staff and see pupils at this lovely localschool at work in their classrooms.

Great Budworth CE Primary School welcomed toLondon 2012’s Get Set network

Tamsin’s Toys is an exciting newsewing business recently foundedby local mum and solicitor turnedseamstress Tamsin Morris. Basedin Cheadle, Tamsin has designed agorgeous range of patchworkcomforters, bandana bibs, quiltsand personalised bunting. Tamsin’sToys products are eco-friendly,using repurposed and vintagefabric, to ensure that your child hasa unique and stylish look.

Tamsin also makes beautiful memoryquilts, taking your cherished butoutgrown baby clothes and turning theminto a unique quilt for your child totreasure as they grow. Tamsin’spersonalised mini-bunting, made to order,is the perfect new baby or christening gift.

Products are stocked at Glo Family inCheadle, Millymog in West Didsbury,Ten Little Monkeys in Wilmslow andBewitched in Davenport, or you can findout more and order online atwww.tamsinstoys.com

Tamsin’s Toys

Children’s party bags have beenaround for generations, but theyhave moved on from the traditionalpiece of cake and balloon.

Today a decent party bag is a must for allchildren’s parties and parents are becomingmore and more competitive with whatthey give! Bah Humbugs has stepped into help parents who have little time tosource treats to fill the bags. With a widerange for varied budgets (from £2.99 to£6.99), bags can be ordered easilyonline from www.bahhumbugs.com

We recently sampled the delights of aMega Retro Sweet Party Bag (£2.99)which contains Popping Candy, DoubleDip Sherbet, Finger of Fudge, Refreshers,Black Jacks, Fruit Salads, Candy Whistle,Double Lolly, Fruit Lolly, Mini LoveHearts, Drumstick Lolly, Fizzers, ParmaViolets and a Candy Necklace. Presented ina simple silver card bag this is definitelya stylish and tasty way to end a party.

www.familiescheshire.co.uk | Families Cheshire 5

Locally speaking

Retro Party Bagsfrom Bah Humbugs

The Just So Festival – just sowonderful! Byrony Pearce experienced this annual festival weekend.

Back to school


Jolly Learning, publisher of the JollyPhonics resources for school andhome have recently released the ‘MyJolly Phonics Home Kit’, a fantasticcollection of fun, multisensoryresources to help parents supporttheir child in learning to read andwrite at home. The extensive set ofmaterials is easy to use and isparticularly useful for children atthe early stages of reading andwriting (age 3+).

The kit contains 7 activitybooks, a DVD, a games CD, anaudio CD of songs with a songbook, Jolly Stories book, letterand sound poster and colouredpencils. All of this comes in abright canvas case that isattractive and easy to carry.

We tested the kit out on Lily,age 5, and Izzy, age 3…

The CD was a real pleaser andwas played over and over on carjourneys. Lily knew all the songsfrom school already so it kept

them fresh in her mind overthe Summer and she wasable to teach them to Izzywho was soon singing along.

The activity bookscontained a good variety ofthings to do. The arrowsdemonstrating the directionof the pen strokes to makethe letters was really helpfulto Lily at her level, where thejoin the dots approach ofwriting suited Izzy so theycould both have a go. The

sticker activities really held Izzy’sattention where Lily preferred pageswhere you had to read words and matchpictures.

Jolly Stories was a lovely book for thegirls to enjoy together. This is a reallytough hard back book with card pages soit can cope with the hands of a three yearold! Simple stories follow the antics ofthe Phonics characters Inky, Snake andBee as Inky the Mouse goes in search ofeach letter/sound. The book is interactivewith plenty of chances for the children tolook at how words break down into sounds.

The DVD backs up the Stories bookbut the girls preferred the book as theycould get more involved and it held theirattention longer.

The CD of games was popular with Lilyas she already had some PC skills andreading experience but Izzy struggled here.

This is a fantastic resource to have athome. Ideal for supporting children intheir early school education by backingup classroom work and great for gettingthem familiarwith thephonicsconcept toprepare themfor startingschool.www.jollylearning.co.uk

real burden, and doesn’t actually seem toenhance learning a great deal. It’s worthnoting that there’s no definite link betweenhomework and student achievement. In fact,for primary school children, there appearsto be no link at all. A review of 75 years’worth of studies by the University ofLondon’s Institute of Education found thatthe benefits were negligible.

As a child moves up the school, I thinkhomework can help with exam preparationand possibly time-management skills. ButI’m not convinced that children need somuch of it. However, the reality is thathomework does exist, so here are sometips to ease the pain:1) Find somewhere quiet to do it – not in front

of the TV or around loud younger siblings.2) Set up a workstation – a desk or table

rather than the floor.3) Don’t do it too late – your child, and

you, shouldn’t do homework whenyou’re too tired.

4) Don’t help if you don’t know – it’sconfusing if you offer help with maths, butdon’t know the methods your child uses.

5) If all else fails, offer bribes – for instance,tell them they can play on the computeronly after they’ve finished.

Sport at schoolYou may notice that your child plays a lot

Moving on up!A new school year and it’s not justthe children who have things to learn.Sarah Ebner takes a look.

As your child moves up the school,they (and you!) will face all sorts ofdifferent issues. Unfortunately I don’thave enough space here to go throughthem all, but here are three which I’mpretty sure you’ll encounter...HomeworkYou’ll soon look back upon the days ofreading books and learning individual lettersas a halcyon time. And if you’re anythinglike me, you might find that homework istaking up far too much of your – and yourchild’s – time.

The Government is keen to promotehomework and offers specific guidelines.These suggest an hour a week for Years 1 and2, one and a half hours a week for Years 3 and4, and 30 minutes a day for Years 5 and 6.

The idea behind homework is that it buildson what children have learnt at school. Theaim is to help learning and encouragechildren to study on their own and be self-disciplined. It’s not supposed to rely onparents teaching their children new concepts.

But for pupils, homework can become a

so ahead (for faith schools, for example),and if you’re choosing a school which selectsits pupils in some way (either academicallyor in a particular area such as music) youmight want to think about hiring a tutor. Youshould plan to go on Open Days when yourchild is in Year 5 (or earlier if you’re very keen!).

Don’t choose a school on the basis of yourchild’s friendships (or yours for that matter).They will make new friends, and you needto make sure this is the right school for theirpersonality and abilities, not anyone else’s.Take advantage of parents’ evenings to findout how your child is doing. Many teachersdon’t give very specific information, so youmay need to press them. There’s no pointentering your child for a selective schoolif they are not going to get in, or managethe work once they are there.

Sarah Ebner is theauthor of The StartingSchool Survival Guide:everything you need toknow when your childstarts primary school,published by WhiteLadder and availablefrom bookshops andwww.amazon.co.uk

less school sport than you used to. PE is part ofthe National Curriculum, but not a big part. InKey Stage 1, children will take part in somecombination of dance, games and gymnasticstwice a week, but dancing to nursery rhymesnever really appealed to my daughter. In KeyStage 2, they continue with these, but add inathletics, ‘outdoor pursuits’ or swimming(still across only two sessions a week).

One major problem is that lots of schoolsdon’t have sporting facilities and playingfields have been sold off (private schoolstend to have much better facilities). Manyteachers no longer want to spend their freetime coaching sport, and, unfortunately, sportykids tend to play their sports at clubs outsideschool (or ironically, in after-school clubs onschool premises, but run by other people).

Do encourage your child to play sport, inor outside school, as it will set them up forlife. And take heart: the revised curriculumrecently announced by the Governmentpromised an element of competitive sport.The next step: secondary schoolsIt’s vital for you to start thinking aboutsecondary schools before your child entersYear 6. So, you need to look up OFSTEDreports, find out about schools near youand speak to local parents.

There may be all sorts of applicationcriteria which you need to address a year or

My Jolly Phonics

Back to school


It’s that time of year when childrenmove onto secondary schools.Perhaps your child is one of them.This is a time of great change for achild and for the family as a wholeas this transition is a time ofgrowth, learning and independence.Children naturally have mixedfeelings about this change.“I was scared that I might not

make any friends and that I'd getbullied, though I was excited toobecause it was such a big step inmy life.” Chris aged 11

Children worry about getting lost, asthe school is much bigger and lookslike a maze of endless corridors withthousands of people, or they worryabout not fitting in, or having the mickeytaken out of them if they don’t like sport,or football. They worry about theirphysical appearance, their spelling,their journey – the list is endless. Try asking your child these 3questions: • What is the best thing about your

new school? • What will you miss most about your

old school?

• What is the scariest thing about yournew school?

Talking through issues and concernswith your child builds their confidenceand gives them support in coping withthe practical and emotional worries theymay be experiencing.

Many larger schools have their ownwebsites, and many of the questionsthat come up can be found on them.You can find out about school trips,sports fixtures, homework expectations,and the choice of clubs on offer, whichcan all help alleviate the uncertainty. Asmoving schools can be a stressful time,don’t be surprised if your child losestheir temper or gets irritable more often.They may start to argue with you overtrivial things like their school uniform,packed lunch or pencil case. Rememberto keep your mind on the bigger pictureof supporting your child through thesechanges and be patient with them. Asparents it’s important to see thisexperience as something positive – ifyou are upbeat, so are your children.Remember Positive Parents =Confident Kids!

Top Tips for Kids1. Make sure you are organised – then

life for everyone is much easier. 2. Never be afraid to ask for help, or talk

to someone you trust, like your mumor dad, or tutor.

3. Always make the first effort to makenew friends – it helps you movethrough change easier, as everyoneis in the same boat.

4. First impressions last a long time, somake sure yours are good ones - fororganisation, presentation, andbehaviour! This is your chance tomake a fresh start – embrace it andmake the most of all the newopportunities. Try out clubs andactivities. You will make new friends.Feel the fear - and do it anyway!

5. Make notes and write down anythingyou need to remember.

6. Behave in a way that won’t get younoticed too quickly.

7. Find out the layout of the school, andlearn where your classrooms are (andthe toilets!)

8. Find out your time table, andremember it! Find out what time youneed to be at school, and what timeyou need to go home!

9. Find out what uniform you need, andwhat to bring in or wear for sport.

10. And finally... find out where thedrinks and sweet machines are (getyour priorities right!)

Remember, secondary school isn’t a‘wild jungle’, more like a ‘human zoo’,with lots of interesting animals. The zookeepers are there to help you – not justto contain you.

Sue Atkins is a Parenting Expert whooffers practical guidance for bringing uphappy, confident, well behaved children.She is also the author of “Raising HappyChildren for Dummies” one in the blackand yellow series published worldwideand the highly acclaimed ParentingMade Easy CDs. She regularly appearson BBC Breakfast and The Jeremy VineShow on BBC Radio 2 and her parentingarticles are published all over the world.

Moving to Secondary School Easily By Sue Atkins

Terra Nova School, near JodrellBank, is maintaining its outstandingperformance as a leading PrepSchool, not only in the area butnationally. Most children leaveTerra Nova at the end of Year 8 (age13) and this year’s pupils provedparticularly successful.

Throughout this year a number ofsenior pupils sat scholarships in Art,DT, Sport and Academic to seniorschools, both within the region andbeyond. This year, Claire Dixon wasawarded a DT Scholarship, EmmaRosson an Art Scholarship and WoodyLewis an Academic Exhibition and aSports Exhibition, all to Repton School.Mark Munro won an AcademicExhibition and an All-RounderScholarship to Malvern College, FernNuttall was awarded an All-RounderScholarship to Sedbergh School, MaxParsonage received a SportsScholarship to Shrewsbury School. PerriRowe received an All-RoundScholarship to Ellesmere College andCallum Speak achieved a Headmaster’sAward to Sedbergh School. Along theway, pupils in the year also won otherAwards prior to their final year, withBethany Begg-Finnon winning a SportsScholarship to AESG and a CB Fry

Scholarship to Repton and Woody Lewisalso achieving a CB Fry Exhibition to Repton.

The pupils also had to sit demandingScholarship or Entrance Examinations tosecure their places at senior school.They went to schools far and wide,including Rugby School inWarwickshire, Stowe School inBuckinghamshire, Repton School inDerbyshire, Shrewsbury School inShropshire, Malvern College inWorcestershire, Sedbergh School inCumbria, Uppingham School inRutland, Manchester High School forGirls in Manchester and Cheadle Hulmein Cheadle. Their results were absolutelyoutstanding with 78% A’s and B’s.

In addition, the school enjoyed moresuccess with Georgia Turner from Year 6awarded a Sports Scholarship to CheadleHulme and Matthew Clark and CatherineMcEwan, both from Year 7, achievingCB Fry Exhibitions to Repton School.

Headmaster Andrew Lewincommented, “The results speak forthemselves. All of the pupils haveshown incredible determination,dedication and hard work. To say I feelproud of these pupils would be anunderstatement. We have receivedscholarships and awards in Academic,Art, DT and Sport, serving as testamentto the all-round education we offer hereat Terra Nova. We believe every child isunique and we are committed to findingthe strengths and skills of every individual,then supporting them in reaching theirfull potential. I believe our Year 8leavers are testament to this and wewish them every success for the future.”

2010/11 was another busy year forStockport Grammar School, with a visitfrom Prince Edward to celebrate 20years of the Duke of Edinburgh’s AwardScheme at the school and an inspectionby the Independent SchoolsInspectorate that concluded ‘The pupils’overall achievement and their learning,attitudes and skills are outstanding’.These key events punctuated a yearof academic success, sportingachievement, and musical andtheatrical performances by pupils.

Pupils returning from their summer breakwill also be astonished to see the progressmade over the holidays on the construction ofa new building to provide state-of-the-artfacilities for the teaching of humanities subjects.

The school has a separate Junior Schooland Nursery on the same site, providingyounger children with a caring and stimulatingenvironment in which to learn, whilst enjoyingthe benefits of strong links with the Senior School.

The Senior School has an Open Evening onthe 13th October and a Sixth Form Eveningon the 7th November. An Open Morning forboth the Junior and Senior Schools will beheld on the 19th November. Parents and childrenare also warmly welcomed to regular schoolday visits throughout the year.

SGS is easy to reach with extensiveschool bus routes and close proximity to2 railway stations, and a NEW servicefrom Sale, Altrincham, Bowdon & Halelaunches this month. Means-testedbursaries are available at 11+ and 16+,and music scholarships at 11+.

Back to school


Outstanding Results Stockport Grammar’sall round excellence

The Ryleys is a long-establishedschool with proud traditions datingback to the 1870’s. But traditionsare worthless unless the currentpupils feel a part of this legacy andare proud to carry the good name ofthe School into the future.

Today, the girls and boys of TheRyleys are a perfect example of this.Through their sense of belonging andpride, they have been able not only tocontinue the good name of the School,but to enhance it.

The co-educational approachperfectly equips pupils for ‘real life’ andteaches them the key skills required toform relationships with, and workalongside both girls and boys. That thisapproach has been a huge success isunquestionable - the achievements ofall of their pupils speaks for itself.

Outstanding results have been gainedover the past year, both academicallyand non-academically. Year 8 saw 4pupils awarded prestigious scholarshipsin both Sport and Music, whilst the 19Year 6 leavers received a total of 58offers of places in the entranceexaminations, and so have been in theenviable position of choosing theirfuture place of learning from among thebest independent grammar schools inthe North.

Places at The Ryleys are becomingincreasingly sought after, with parentsidentifying strongly with the School’saim to provide a fully roundededucation. See for yourself what makesThe Ryleys stand out from the crowd –to arrange a personal tour pleasecontact 01625 583241 or visitwww.theryleys.com for moreinformation. You don’t just choose yourchild’s school. You choose their future.

Pride gives TheRyleys the Edge

Head teachers have warned that theGovernment’s plans to allowpopular schools to expand at theexpense of local rivals will create anetwork of “sink schools” indeprived areas.

Education Secretary Michael Govehas announced a new schooladmissions code that will enableoversubscribed schools to take in morepupils, while also allowing them to give

priority to the children of teachers. Aswell as this, the school admissionscode will prevent the use of area-widelotteries which have been used by someschools if they are besieged byapplications. Michael Gove told schoolsthey could actually increase the size ofclasses for five- to seven-year-olds toover 30 children, if that means beingable to take in children of armedservices personnel or to avoid splittingup twins. The general secretary of the

Association of School and CollegeLeaders, Brian Lightman, said of thenew code: “It will create sink schools inmany areas of deprivation and hithardest those children whose parents donot or cannot take an interest in theireducation. Those schools left with themost challenging pupils, who need themost intensive support, will suffer aslow spiral of decline.” He also warnedthat the code would “do nothing toimprove social mobility”.

Sinking schools

9

Back to school

www.familiescheshire.co.uk | Families Cheshire

Abbey Gate College is a well-established, coeducational school forpupils aged 4 to 18 on the outskirtsof Chester. Aldford School is home tothe popular and successful Juniorand Infant Department.

At Aldford School, pupils develop a loveof learning in a friendly and caring environment.Through beautifully maintained, extensivegrounds and a wide range of expertise on thestaff, pupils have the opportunity to developall areas of the curriculum inclusive of athriving music, drama and sporting timetable.

Each and every child is valued and their

potential nurtured and encouraged.Education is far greater than simplyachieving super examination results; atAbbey Gate College the journey itself is ofequal importance, providing a stimulatingexperience, widening opportunities andproviding an education for life.

Abbey Gate College is a successful andhappy school, committed to maintainingtraditional standards and high educationalideals and in the most recent inspection report(March 2010) ISI inspectors commendedthe high standards of teaching, learningand especially behaviour in the college.

‘The college fully meets its aim toencourage students to achieve their personalambitions in an atmosphere that is caringbut challenging. The students’ personalqualities are outstanding and fullysupported within the college by the positivefamily type ambience. The communityawareness is outstanding; relationshipsbetween staff and students themselvesare outstanding and conducive toexcellent behaviour.’ (ISI March 2010).

Abbey Gate College – for successful andhappy children

Alderley Edge School for Girls has wonthe 2011 Good Schools Guide A LevelAward for achieving the best pointscore at an English IndependentSchool amongst girls who took theextended project in the CambridgePre-U Principal Subject of English.

Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subjects areavailable across a wide variety of subjectsand have been designed to stretch and

challenge pupils. The qualification evenhas an extended grading scale so it candifferentiate and reward achievementamongst the top performers.

The Good Schools Guide awarded theschool on the basis of performance resultsover the last three years, the popularity ofeach subject relative to similar schools, andof the success that pupils achieve in relationto the other examinations that they take.

The aim of the award is to highlightexcellence in teaching within individualsubjects, and Alderley Edge School forGirls is delighted to receive the award. MrsSusan Goff, Headmistress commented, “Itis always nice to be recognised externallyfor successes within the school, and Iwould like to congratulate the EnglishDepartment on achieving the award. Suchawards are not only a credit to the teachingstaff who work incredibly hard but to ourpupils who do their best at whateverchallenges they undertake.”

Top Award From TheGood Schools GuideFor Alderley Girls

For parents who believe that choosingthe right education is one of themost important decisions they’llever make about their children’sfuture, the Northern IndependentSchools Show is the place to be.

Some of the most prestigious schoolsin the country will be showcasing the bestof British education at the exhibition onFriday 14 October and Saturday 15October at Cheshire’s Thornton Manor.

Among them will be Cheadle HulmeSchool, Terra Nova School, Chester’s AbbeyGate College and Abbey College Manchester.And for families keen to explore the optionof boarding, major schools such asStonyhurst, Casterton, Rydal Penrhos inNorth Wales and York’s Queen Ethelburga’sCollege will be showing how modern dayboarding schools are exciting, busy andchallenging places that exist to complementfamily life – not to replace it.

There will be advice too on school feesplanning and admission appeals.

Show organiser Sue McCann said: “Theevent will bring together the largest collectionof independent school heads and seniorstaff under one roof for the first time in thispart of the country to share their knowledge

and expertise with visiting parents.” Family admission to the Northern

Independent Schools Show is free withonline booking.

To get tickets, view exhibiting schoolsand the timetable for keynote speakers, goto www.northernschoolsshow.co.ukMake a day of itAFTER your visit to the show, why notcomplete your day out and enjoy thebenefits of a special 10% discountshopping card for Cheshire OaksDesigner Outlet Village, only 15 minutes’drive time away from the show.

Or – take a peek behind the doors ofThornton Manor when you visit the show.It’s a unique opportunity to see the formerhome of William Lever, probably thecountry’s greatest visionary, entrepreneurand industrialist who founded the soapempire and became the first ViscountLeverhulme, as the Grade II listed buildingis not normally open to the public.

A free guided tour of the house willinclude the manor’s fabulously ornatemusic room and Lord Leverhulme’sfamous outdoor bedroom. To book a tourplace on Friday, October 14, pleaseemail [email protected]

Northern Independent Schools Show

Advertise in FamiliesCheshire

Call Jayne on: 01625 801801 or email

[email protected]


Children’s labelling companyLabels4Kids are recruiting salesagents. In exchange for a smallstart-up cost, readers who refer friendsand family to the company’s websitecan earn money back in commission.

You get to show and explain products youlike to others who may also benefit fromtheir use, and make some money too.

Over the years Labels4Kids has beenentered in and won numerous highprofile awards, including Online Retailerof the Year in 2010.

As well as ordering kits through thewebsite, customers can read blogs onnumerous topics on the latest educationaland parents related issues. There is alsoa Labels4Kids Facebook page wherediscounts, offers and news are posted.

For orders, go towww.labels4kids.com/famTo ask about becoming an agent, email [email protected]

Why not give all those excited 5year olds a helping hand as theygear up to start school?

Try the Reception Words Write &Spell Book from ZooBooKoo. This is an8 page, write and wipe booklet with asturdy backing to lean on and a dry wipepen. The book contains over 50 highfrequency words which form the targetlearning aims for all our little newcomers.With a simple cursive writing style, thechild can firstly follow the dots twice andthen try to write on their own.

Ask any ‘Tiger Mum’, practice andrepetition are the keys to success. With

the Reception Words booklet the childrencan practise time and time again,perfecting their spelling and their cursivehandwriting. Being the perfect A5 hand-bag size, they are great on the go, too.

There is also a Year 1 & 2 Write &Spell Book with the next 50 high frequencywords. Let’s develop some good habitsin our stars of the future.

Retailing at around £6.50 each theseproducts are available from good toy,book and gift stores and online fromwww.zoobookoo.com orwww.amazon.co.uk

Labels4kids - for cash

Zoobookoo back to school “must haves”

Reading Eggs is a revolutionaryproduct from Australian educationalpublisher Blake Publishing, designedto get children reading by combiningthe best elements of online and booklearning in one easy to use process.The program has been running inAustralia for 3 years and due to itshuge success it has now been adaptedfor the UK market, specificallyincorporating synthetic phonics.The importance of synthetic phonics• Synthetic phonics is a method of

teaching reading which first teachesthe letter sounds and then builds upto blending these sounds together toachieve full pronunciation of wholewords e.g. “s-t-r-ee-t”

• Children who learn using syntheticphonics are able to try new wordsworking from sound alone withoutneeding prior knowledge of familiesof words

• Research has shown that childrenlearning to read using syntheticphonics have developed skills andprogressed to a higher level fasterthan those without

• The use of synthetic phonics inteaching has been supported by theBritish government and has not onlybeen added to the nationalcurriculum but a funding scheme hasalso been developed where schoolscan claim up to £3,000 for aneffective phonics program

Where Reading Eggs came from …For two years a team of Australianeducators, programmers and animatorsworked to turn learning the basics ofreading into a fun journey through ahighly interactive digital world that

engages children on many levels. Full of educationally sound, fun and

interactive activities, Reading Eggs focuseson the most fundamental skill needed inschool: reading. Children from 3 to7 yearsof age or older children struggling withreading will enjoy the huge variety ofreading lessons, activities and gamesthat make up the Reading Eggs program.

Sara Leman, Blake Publishing’s literacyexpert, says: “Parents are often keen toget involved in their child’s learning butcan find it difficult to know how to help.Reading Eggs is designed to rewardchildren for their efforts too therebymaintaining the motivation to learn. It alsoallows children to learn at their own pacein a safe, familiar environment. The gamesare great fun and children love the stickersand e-toys they collect as their learningprogresses. There’s never been anythingquite like it.”“The trick is to make thenecessary repetition fun, so it’s driven bythe child who wants to learn. Parentalinvolvement is also important. Familysupport is a crucial factor in helpingyoung children to become fluent readers.”What parents and teachers thinkabout Reading EggsThe testimonial page on the ReadingEggs website is full of parents, teachers andcarers who have seen first-hand theeffect the program has had on theirchildren’s reading ability. Parents suchas Arthur who commented:

“Reading Eggs is incredible!! Mydaughter can’t get enough of the activities,she enjoys them so much. We had toturn the computer off because she wasgetting tired. In just THREE days shestarted reading the most basic of words.Thank you so much Reading Eggs.”

Over 500,000 children across theworld have already had the ReadingEggs experience. The program focuseson the importance of phonics and basicreading skills and is already being usedby many teachers who incorporated theprogram into their daily lesson. Using the code in the

advertisement you can trial the sitefor an extended period and see foryourself what the program entails andwhy it has been so successful. Simplyvisit www.readingeggs.co.uk. You toocan be one ofthe 90% ofparents whoreported anoticeableimprovement intheir child’sreading skillsafter using theprogram.

Finally – a breakthrough in learning to read

Back to school


Back to school

If your child is starting out in year 5 or 6, now’s the time to fully investigateyour secondary school options. Take advantage of the planned School OpenEvents in the Cheshire area:

Please call the schools to confirm times or for further information. Mostschools will be happy to show you around individually should you not beable to attend the planned events.

School Open Event

Abbey Gate College 24 September

Alderley Edge School for Girls 13 October

5 November

All Hallows Catholic College 19, 20, 27 September

4 October

Alsager School 1 October

Beech Hall School 24 September

Bishop Heber High School 4 October

Blacon High School 12 October

Brine Leas School 5 October

Christleton High School 5, 6, 7 October

Congleton High School 29 September

Eaton Bank School 6 October

Hartford High School 22 September

Kings Grove School 24 September

Knutsford High School 3 October

Macclesfield High School 28 September

Malbank School and Sixth Form College 22 September

Middlewich High School 29 September

Poynton High School and Performing Arts College 29 September

Queen’s Park High School 29 September

Ruskin Sports College - a Community High School 20 September

Sandbach High School and Sixth Form College 26 September

Shavington High School 24 September

Sir William Stanier Community School 29 September

St Thomas More Catholic High School 29 September

Stockport Grammar 13 October

19 November

Tarporley High School and Sixth Form College 29 September

The County High School Leftwich 29 September

The Fallibroome Academy 29 September

The Grange Senior School 24 September

The Hammond School 1 October

The King’s School, Chester 15 October

The King’s School, Macclesfield 7, 8 October

The Queen’s School, Chester 8 October

Tytherington High School 22 September

Upton-by-Chester High School 28, 30 September

Weaverham High School 27 September

Wilmslow High School 29 September

Choosing a Secondary SchoolCheshire is home to some excellent state and independent junior schools. WhileOpen Event information for some schools in our area was not available at thetime of going to press, most are more than happy to show you around at a timeconvenient for both parties. Simply contact the school to make an appointment.

Please call the schools to confirm times or for further information.

School Open Event

Alderley Edge School for Girls 1 October

Aldford School 24 September

Beech Hall School 24 September

Great Budworth Primary and Pre-School 5 October

Pownall Hall School 8 October

Stockport Grammar 19 November

Terra Nova School 15 October

The Grange Junior School 5 November

The King’s School, Chester 15 October

The King’s School, Macclesfield 7, 8 October

The Queen’s School, Chester 5 November

The Ryleys 8 October

Wilmslow Preparatory School for Girls 8 October

Junior School Open Events


Back to school


Parents’ place

• Independent occupational therapy for children with additional needs

• Detailed assessment to determine root cause of a child's di�culty

• Work with families and children, providing purposeful activities to develop functional skills

www.mosaicchildrenstherapy.co.uk | [email protected]

57 Church Street, Davenham, Northwich, CW9 8NF | 01606 40195

Tell us a bit about yourself. My nameis Kathryn Alexander, and I live inNorthwich with my 2 boys, James age 5,Matthew age 2 and my husband Dave. Igrew up in Redditch, Worcestershire, andmoved to Northwich on completion of mydegree in Occupational Therapy atUniversity of Liverpool, in 2000. I am anExplorer Scout leader for Endurance SeaScout Explorers, based in Weaverham,and attend St Wilfrid’s church inDavenham. I have worked in the NHS forthe last 10 years as a Paediatric

Occupational Therapist. I left the NHS inJune this year to set up Mosaic Children’sTherapy Centre (Mosiac CTC). What is your business? Mosaic CTCprovides comprehensive OccupationalTherapy (OT) assessment and treatmentfor children with additional needs.Paediatric Occupational Therapists (OT’s)work with children with additional needs todevelop their functional skills. This can beanything from getting dressed, to copingwith the sensory input when going to theshops, to riding a bike and organisation inschool. OT’s use the skills of assessmentto determine the root cause of a child’sdifficulty – is it visual-motor skills, in handmanipulation, sensory modulation, or others.They then use a graded activity program ofpurposeful games and play to help thechild reach their maximum potential. How did you get started? I have aparticular interest in working withchildren with sensory processingdisorders – that is the ability to makesense and correctly process the sensoryinput we all receive on a daily basis. I

was not able to do this working for theNHS, so made the big step and left to goit alone. I did a lot of work before I left tobe sure it is what I wanted to do. What does the future hold for thebusiness? I will also be running afterschool groups to help children withgeneral coordination difficulties. The aimis to offer an alternative motor skillsgroup to those children who find sportsclubs challenging. In the next few years I hope to join withother independent children’s therapiststo offer a one stop shop for children andtheir families. I am booked onto furthertraining in Sensory Integration, so willbe a registered practitioner next year(providing I pass the course work!)What is the best bit about what youdo?Without a doubt, seeing a childachieve in a skill that was previouslyunreachable for them. I love the reactionon a parent’s face when a child has learntto ride a bike after years of trying, or theknowledge that life is a little bit easier atschool following the work that we havedone together. I also find the flexibility ofbeing my own boss exciting, challenging,but rewarding.

Any bad bits? I have to learn a lot of newskills fast, like book keeping, advertisingand the legalities of self-employment.Free courses from HMRC have beeninvaluable. I am spending more time infront of a computer, but that will changein time as the business becomesestablished. How do you fit work around familylife? I am now working closer to homethan previously, and being my own boss Ihave a bit more flexibility with hours. I cando some work in the evening like settingup the website. I generally feel happierthan in my previous role, and I hope thatcomes across in my home life. What advice would you give to othermums looking to work for themselves?Go for it! Be prepared for a steep learningcurve and to work in the evenings. Thereis a lot of support out there, so you willnot be on your own, it just takes time tofind it. Do not be afraid to ask for helpand work on something you enjoy.

To find out more, visitwww.mosaicchildrenstherapy.co.ukor contact Kathryn on 01606 40195.

Kathryn AlexanderMosaic Children’s Therapy Centre

Mums in business

me&i, a gorgeous range of kidsclothes from Sweden has recentlybeen launched in the UK.

The brand was founded by twoSwedish mums in 2004 and theirclothes represent Swedish design at itsbest – high quality, funky colours andcool prints and they are reallycomfortable to wear. All the clothes aretried and tested by a panel of childrenfor both comfort and looks.

me&i makes shopping for children’sclothes a really enjoyable activity. Their

clothes are sold exclusively throughhome parties, saving busy mums bothtime and effort.

They are now looking forrepresentatives in the local area so ifyou are thinking about returning to workor just want to change to a job that fitsround your family, take a look at thecompany’s website www.meandi.eu orcall 07725 030821.

Me&I – flexible working, fabulous clothing

Start Your Own Home-Based Business By Nick DawesISBN: 9781905367306RRP: £12.99Having recently been involved in setting up a new businessI was interested in reading this book to see if I had done thingscorrectly! From the start I could see that the author hadbroken the book up into easy to read sections that coverseverything you need to know about running a business at home. Italso includes some very useful examples and checklists which could help withdecision making. While I found the chapter on business plans and financial forecastsinsightful I did feel that the sections about computers, phones & faxes were very dated.Overall this book offers very good advice about starting your own home-based business, even though at times it did become a little patronising. If you are in a position of startingout on your own, I wish you lots of luck with your future business adventures.Reviewed by Annabel Beattie

15

Parents’ place

www.familiescheshire.co.uk | Families Cheshire

It's the Holy Grail for many workingmums, particularly in the currentclimate: how to find a good flexiblejob which uses your experience andskills. Since many organisationsdon't advertise flexible jobs, exceptpart-time ones, it can be difficult toknow where to start looking.

There are organisations, such asWorkingmums.co.uk, which specialisein advertising family friendly jobs so it isdefinitely worth registering with them. Alarge percentage of job vacancies are notformally advertised. It is also worth

networking as widely as you can. This isimportant even when you are in a job.Use social networking and don't forgetyour personal network of friends,colleagues, ex-colleagues andacquaintances to find out about anypossible vacancies.

If you spot a good job that isadvertised as full time it may still beworth applying and asking whether theemployer will consider some form offlexibility. Legally, you don't have theright to request flexible working untilafter you have been in a job for six

months, but if the organisation wantsyou, you will have more leeway.

The six million dollar question iswhen to bring up the issue at interview.There are many different opinions andevery job situation is different so thereare no hard and fast rules. Feel your way,but don't make it the first thing you talkabout. You could try asking generalquestions at the end of the interviewabout the organisation's flexible workpolicy. You should research this beforeyou apply in any event and ask contactsfor the inside view on whether the

organisation really backs flexibleworking or just does so on paper.

The good news is that a growingnumber of employers are coming aroundto the positives of flexible working forboth employers and employees.

For the lowdown on all things flexibleworking, visit Workingmums.co.uk LIVEevent on 8th November 2011 at theLowry Hotel, Manchester. Register forfree entry today atwww.workingmumslive.co.uk/Manchester

How to Find a Flexible Job

A thriving franchise is offering onebudding entrepreneur the rarechance to take the reins of one of theUK’s top children’s party providers.

Jabberjacks Franchising Ltd has anopportunity for someone to take over therunning of the franchise in Culcheth,Lymm & Warrington which offerschildren’s parties and pre-school classesusing a cast of colourful puppetcharacters, music, songs and dance.Thepopular business has been runningsuccessfully since 2004 by long-standingJabberjacks franchisee Lynne Greenhalgh,who has now decided, after entertaining1000’s of children over the last 6 years,to step down.

Lynne said: “I'm very sad to be leavingJabberjacks but I am now working fulltime in a local primary school, and

combined with changes in familycircumstances, I'm unable to continuegiving my business the attention itdeserves. This is a fantastic opportunityfor someone else to take over in an areawhere Jabberjacks is well known and hasbeen established for over 6 years.

“Running my Jabberjacks franchisehas given me the opportunity to workfrom home doing a job I enjoy whilefitting in with my young family - andallowing me to be at home with themduring the school holidays! It's a greatfeeling when you can see that you'vehelped make a child's birthday party atruly special and memorable occasion.”

Verity Graham, Director of JabberjacksFranchising said “We are really sorry tosee Lynne go; she has been a great part ofthe Jabberjacks family here in Cheshire.

We know she will be missed and we wishher every success in her new career. Wealso want to reassure people that whilstwe look for a new person to take on theJabberjacks reins, we will still be able tooffer parties in this area through our teamof other Jabberjacks franchises.”

The Jabberjacks family boasts ninefranchises throughout the UK and israpidly growing in popularity.

Its classes serve up a feast ofeducational activity for toddlers and pre-school children and its special partyentertainment ensures great birthdays forchildren aged between two and sevenyears old.

Jabberjacks, which started in 1999,has proved itself to be a winning formulaensuring an enjoyable experience forchildren and a profitable business for the

franchise owner in a market area whichcontinues to boom despite the recession.

The franchise package is ideal forpeople who want a new challenge in theirlives but who want control of their ownwork/life balance, with low start-up costs,minimal risk and an excellent trainingscheme.

With this excellent support, franchiseowners can be up, running and earningwithin three months.

For more information please visitwww.jabberjacks.co.uk, call 01509413873 or [email protected]

Exciting franchise up for grabs


Parents’ place

Nothing prepares you for first timemotherhood does it? There is a life BC(before child/children), and an utterlydifferent kind of existence afterwards;one where you are never top priorityanymore, where your life revolvesaround others’ scheduled needs: naptimes, school times, meal times, milktimes, bath times, bed times. Yes, youare now in service to the next generation.For the rest of your life, you willprobably find something about yourchildren to worry about, no matter whatage they are. The word ‘mother’, it hasbeen said, is not just a noun. It is a verb.Fake it till you make itThere is this crazy assumption that whenmotherhood hits, we will somehow,intuitively know what to do; it will all just flownaturally. The reality, I think, goes more likethis: we hit the ground running, muddlethrough and do the best we can. And it is, asthey say, just one thing after another. Oncewe have the routine and sleeping through thenight thing nailed, then we have the joys ofencouraging them to eat healthily, along withthe Herculean challenges of boundary setting.After the umpteenth request to ‘please, do NOTleave your rollerskates at the bottom of the

stairs,’ or ‘no, it is not OK to chew on your babybrother’s ear,’ is it any wonder we startsounding like our own frustrated parents whenwe yell: ‘If I have told you once, I have toldyou a thousand times... Why don’t youLISTEN??’ Or the classic one that makes meshudder when I imagine my neighboursoverhearing it: ‘JUST PUT YOUR F***INGSHOES ON!’ Ooops. Swearing at child. Guiltyas charged Your Honour. But can I claimmitigating circumstances? My son practicesselective deafness, I was stressed out andwe were horribly, horribly late.

Sigh. There goes another few quid in the‘therapy for when he is older’ box.Angels in trainingMothers aren’t supposed to shout or be crossor tear their hair out or cry and scream withfrustration, are we? Especially not insupermarkets. We’re supposed to be sweetand kind and giving and patient and perfectwith angelic supplies of unconditional love.We’re not supposed to park them in front ofCBeebies for the morning and go back to bednursing a hangover. No. We must provideeducational activities, bake cakes, rustle upfancy dress costumes out of remnants in therecycling box, present a clean and tidy house,organise schooling, lay proper meals on thetable and, often, hold down a job and evena marriage too. But we can’t and we don’t.And we feel guilty about it.

The best advice I ever heard aboutmothering went something like this: ‘Look,you have to accept that you are going to getit wrong. You are going to make mistakes.Everyone does. It is the only way you learn.So the best thing you can do is just resolveto love your children as much as you possiblycan.’ My rules are that I always apologise formy appalling behaviour and then tell my sonI love him. Our biggest mothering mistake really,is believing we shouldn’t be making any.

I have a little sign in my kitchen that reads:‘mothers are angels in training’. Feelingguilty is how we punish ourselves for notreaching impossibly high standards. I don’tknow any mother who thinks she ticks all the‘perfect mother’ boxes. And you know what?Maybe we are right. Maybe, we weren’t evendesigned to meet every single one of ourchildren’s needs.Tribal HeartThere is an African saying that goes: ‘It takesa whole village to raise a baby.’ In her book‘The Spirit of Intimacy’, Sobonfu Some, awoman from the Dagara tribe of West Africa,says that it is also true that it takes a wholevillage to keep parents sane. In fact, it was notuntil she was nearly six years old that sheunderstood that she came out of oneparticular woman’s womb, that she did notbiologically ‘belong’ to all of the women inher village who breastfed and cared for her.

We would do well to remember thatone-to-one parenting is a pretty recentevolution in our species. Back in the daythere would be aunties, sisters, cousins,neighbours and grandmothers all on handfor mass childcare duties. Sobonfu insiststhat if a child has a problem that their parentscan’t sort out, he or she needs to have otheradults to turn to. If nothing else, there is amuch better chance the child will actuallylisten to sage advice. Let’s face it: childrenjust don’t like having to listen to their parents.(I mean, did you? I certainly didn’t. Dammit,of course my son doesn’t want to listen to me!)Hang up your halo‘Motherhood,’ Oprah once said, ‘is thehardest job in the world. Women everywheremust declare it so.’ In my opinion, it is alsothe most undervalued, the most rewarding andthe most important job in the world too. Hey,we’re at the coalface of building thefoundations – the veritable bedrock – ofsociety here. Let’s hang up our halos and,through example, teach our children thatwe are all on a lifelong learning curve, thatwe are all lovable despite our imperfections.That, in itself, is a great education.

Abi Foss is a hypnotherapist who writesabout all things holistic and spiritual. See:www.abifoss.co.uk

Mothers’ guilt


Baby & toddler

Cleaning: it doesn’t cost any more to buycleaning products made from naturalplant and mineral ingredients thanconventional ones. And don’t alwaysreach for the bleach - the risk ofcontamination to your baby is very lowfrom floors, walls and other surfaces. Usea steam cleaner to clean carpets insteadof toxic carpet cleaners, and wash rugsregularly. Avoid air fresheners, scentednappy bins or anything else with afragrance in it. Safer laundry detergentsare becoming popular too, and try toavoid fragrant fabric softeners that canrelease harmful chemicals.Bathing: choose baby washes free ofartificial fragrances, food-gradepreservatives and harsh detergentingredients, and look for gentle, non-drying cleansers derived from olive oiland oats, organic ingredients andessential oils. Even stretchmark creamand nappy balm can beorganic. www.greenbaby.co.uk do agreat range that contains organicbeeswax, so it helps save the bees too!Alternatively, avoid bath productsaltogether. Water does the trick even forthe muddiest of toddlers and not usingsoaps can help prevent over-dry baby skin.Feeding: Breastfeeding is free and green,yet there is still a thought that breast milkcan contain harmful chemicals. Somepersistant organic pollutiants (POPs) don’tbreak down quickly in the environment orin our bodies – they accumulate in the fatof the fish and meat we eat, and then inour own fat until they turn up in breastmilk. Many POPs have now been bannedin the UK so levels are gradually decliningbut if you are concerned about them thereare some simple steps you can take toreduce your baby’s exposure. Don’tsmoke and stay away from smokers,avoid unnecessary medications andalcohol, try to avoid inhalation or skincontact with solvents and avoid usingpesticides in your home and garden andon your pet. Eat organic food and includemore fruit and veg and less high fat dairyand meat products in your diet. On theother hand if bottle-feeding is yourpreference, there are several good organicformulas on the market. Although mostplastic bottles are now considered to befree of harmful BPAs, to be doubly safechoose glass bottles with silicone teats.Other feeding products can also be boughtorganic, from muslins to dummy clips.Invest ethically: when you choose asavings account for your little one,choose a bank or building society that

specifically avoids those businesses thatmay damage the environment or areinvolved in activities such as tobaccoproduction, animal testing, oppressiveregimes or armaments. Instead go forthose that seek to encourage companiesthat have a positive environmental impactand support Fair Trade.

Finally, our Top Tips• Don’t buy anything new! The most

sustainable baby clothes your childcan wear are hand-me-downs fromfriends, family or older siblings.Alternatively, shop at charity stores.You’ll save a fortune!

• Just like with baby clothes, second-hand furniture and family heirloomsare the lowest-impact way to furnishyour baby's nursery, as long as theydon't contain lead paint or other unsafecomponents.

• Babies smell sweet and fresh anyway,so why cover them up with fragrancedpowders and lotions? Use olive oil forbaby lotion and calendula salve fornappy rash.

• Buy less stuff! New baby productsappear on the market all the time, fromgadgets to home accessories andeverything in between. Many of themare not recyclable and some give offnasty chemicals. Be more discerning -buy only what you need and what youreally, really want.

Helpful websiteswww.nrdc.org - for information on how toprotect your home, health and the planetwww.theecologist.orgwww.projectnesting.org/startwww.naturalnurseryblog.co.ukwww.ehow.co.uk/video_2050064_design-functional-baby-nursery.html - forhow to design a functional green nurserywww.ecohouseagent.com/green-nursery.html

SuppliersFlooring – www.healthyflooring.orgWalls - www.earthbornpaints.co.uk,www.MyLittleEco.co.uk/4-paintFurniture– www.thegreenfamilia.co.uk,www.kiddisave.co.ukMattresses - www.abacaorganic.co.uk,www.greenbaby.co.ukBathing products– www.greenbaby.co.ukEco-nursery products- www.hellobabydirect.co.uk

Are you green enough for your baby? By Joanna Parry

Many of us try to be as green aspossible when it comes to our babies– we know that raising an eco-friendlybaby is not only safer for baby butalso reduces the impact on theenvironment. We recycle, we try toreduce our carbon impact and areaware of wasteful packaging. We buybamboo or organic cotton clothing,fair trade baby products and organic,locally grown vegetables. But howgreen really are we? You may recallthat in an issue of Families Cheshireearlier this year, we looked at theterrifying number of toxins that canbe present in nursery furnishings,carpeting and furniture, and ways toreduce them. (Back issues are availableonline – www.familiescheshire.co.uk– the previous article is in issue 9.)But, as with most things, creating aneco nursery can be expensive. Sowhat about ways to go green withoutbreaking the bank?

Save money“I was shocked to hear about all thesepotential toxins in my child’s nursery,”says Emma, mum of three. “But isn’t itgoing to cost a fortune to remove it all?”The answer is, possibly, yes. But ideas

such as removing wireless equipment,installing plants and airing the room arefree. And there are plenty more things youcan do to ensure your baby’s safety thatdon’t cost much. Take the Great NappyDebate. The jury still seems to be out asto whether cloth nappies have a lowerecological footprint than disposables -according to research a baby will getthrough about 6,000 nappies before beingtoilet trained, each taking 200-500 yearsto decompose, but on the other hand,cloth nappies require water and energy forwashing. Whichever you choose, you canstill go greener. With cloth nappies, hangthem out to dry instead of using a dryer,or use a nappy service which has a lowerenvironmental impact because of theefficiency of washing large quantities atone time. Look for cloth nappies madefrom eco-friendly material such as hemp,bamboo or organic cotton. Try out localmum Eve Bell’s fabulously-designedfashionable cloth nappies – seewww.babaandboo.com. If disposablesare more your cup of tea, try eco-disposable nappies, which only takeabout 100 days to biodegrade. A goodexample are Tushies eco disposablenappies from www.greenbaby.co.uk.


Baby & toddler

Perfect ProductsBrain Boosting Omega-3 FishOil from Nordic Naturals!We all know that a healthy balanceddiet is vital, but if you have a fussychild, how do you ensure they are onthe road to a healthy development?

Recent studies have shown thatchildren who have an omega-3 enricheddiet have a significantly higher cognitiveperformance, are protected againstchildhood diseases such as asthma, andgo on to have better health in adulthood.

The omega-3 essential fatty acids EPAand DHA are considered “essential”because our bodies cannot manufacturethem. The best source of omega-3s is oily,cold water fish such as sardines, cod andanchovies. However, persuading your childto eat fish 2-3 times a week can be a struggle.

Now there is a safe and easy way forparents to get all the benefits of omega-3sand multivitamins into their children’s dietswith Nordic Naturals range of appetizing,chewable gummies and soft gels.

Each product is naturally fruit flavoured

and completely free from any fishy tasteor after taste – so delicious, their dailydose can be disguised as an after dinnertreat! Fortified with vitamins and minerals,the range will help to improve IQ, mood,memory, learning and focus.

The Families children tested out thestrawberry flavour Gummy Worms and thetangerine flavour Gummies. Both provedpopular but the worms were the favourite.The children enjoyed the taste and sawthem as a treat. The only down side wasthat they asked for more when they hadalready taken their daily dose!

Supplements tested suitable from age 2.For more information visitwww.nordicnaturals.com/uk.

Less Mess Thanks to Munchkin

Out and about through the Summer,Logan Keep (aged 14 months) has beenputting the Munchkin Snack Catcherthrough some vigorous testing.

Snacks are always a great way to keepbabies and toddlers happy when you needto keep them still on a car journey or inthe buggy, but how often do you find theydrop what you have given them leavingthe food covered in dirt, hair and goodnessknows what else, which then results inscreams for more of what they just lost?!Well, problem solved with this fab product.

The Snack Catcher cup keeps bite-sizedsnacks inside the container until little fingerspull them out. Even if it tips over! The softflaps make it easy to access and the littlefinger cleaning bumps are a special plusfor keeping nearby surfaces cleaner. Loganfound the Snack Catcher easy to use andwas thrilled that he was able to just helphimself as and when he wanted more. Hedid find some foods easier to dispense thanothers – anything too small he would stillmanage to drop a few of when he took hishand out of the pot – but the mess wascertainly greatly reduced. The Snack Catchergets a thumbs up from Logan (and mum) andwill be used on the school run now thatSummer outings are over and we are backto the routine.

For stockists details visitwww.munchkin.eu.com/stockists.html

Introducing Bobux - the original baby & toddlerfootwear that combines nature with nurture

From birth to three, little feet undergoan enormous amount of change.Whether crawling, toddling or walking,a child's footwear needs to supporthealthy, natural development.

Bobux, a leading New Zealand innovatorin children’s footwear, draws on bothscience and working with globally renownedspecialists and natural health researchersto create eco-friendly footwear that allowsunrestricted development as babies andtoddlers grow.

Bobux offer three ranges of footwearbased around the philosophy that childrendo better when they're comfortable, happyand free to develop as nature intended.Each shoe is designed to support keystages of a child’s development fromcrawling to walking.Soft Sole (indoor wear): The original

Bobux shoe, these are soft, breathable andflexible shoes for babies of 0 to 27 months.

Made with eco-leather and non-toxicstitching and dyes. With a unique elasticankle support, these Bobux originals workwith little feet as they grip the floor, flexmuscles and spread toes, assisting incrawling and making those first steps as easyas possible. The fun, colourful soft soledesigns also work to stimulate little mindsjust as they’re starting to take in visualinformation. It’s like having a mobile onthe end of their legs!Pre-walk (outdoor wear): Feature a

revolutionary duo-flex sole (leather roundthe edges and rubber underneath) tosupport but not restrict natural movementduring those first few steps. The pre-walkrange consists of sandals, ballet shoesand sport shoes.i-walk (outdoor wear): A soft, flexible

rubber-sole shoe with extra grip thatconforms to the natural walking motion oflittle feet allowing them to grow and explorewithout restriction, avoiding malformationand spinal issueslater in life. The i-walk rangeconsists ofsneakers, loafers,casual shoes andsandals.www.bobux.co.uk

Pure Beginnings at John Lewis

A trusted South African organic carebrand Pure Beginnings has arrived atJohn Lewis. This eco and vegan friendlyskincare range meets organic standardswithout the use of petrochemicals,parabens, synthetic fragrances,colourants and sulphated surfactantsto care for little ones’ sensitive skin.The Pure Beginnings product rangecomprises of:• Baby Bum Cream with Baobab – an effective

daily barrier cream with natural anti-fungal,anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties.

• Baby Wash & Shampoo with Baobab – arosemary and geranium scented all-in-onebaby wash and shampoo with baobab fruitextract, that is effective on cradle cap.

…and goodbye to searching for acafé to heat your baby’s bottle whenyou’re out and about!

Make feeding time easy with the bottleand warmer in one from yoomi, which warmsyour baby's feed to the natural temperatureof breast milk in just 60 seconds. It’s alsogreat for those nighttime feeds – no morestumbling down to the kitchen in the middleof the night. Created by a mum and dad,Farah and Jim, Yoomi can be charged upto 100 times, is BPA free and has a cleveranti-colic teat that makes it perfect for

• Baby Body Lotion with Baobab – mildlyscented with rosemary and lavender, andfeaturing anti-oxidant rich baobab fruit extractas well as skin-nourishing shea butter.

• Bubble Bath created for children of all ages,SLS-free citrus and ylang ylang scented.

• Berry Toothpaste designed for children ofall ages and suitable for teething babies.

The Families tribe of tots sampled the BabyWash & Shampoo and the Bubble Bath andboth products were enjoyed by all. TheBubble Bath was very bubbly and thebubbles lasted well through some verysplashy bathing. It was the Baby Wash &Shampoo that was the biggest hit; it smellswonderful (so much so, mum chose to usesome for her bath too!) It left skin squeakyclean, smelling gorgeous and feeling soft.With three kids who can get pretty muckyin a day and all of whom are prone to dry,sensitive skin it certainly did well.

All products can be bought throughJohn Lewis either in store (includingCheadle, Liverpool and Trafford) andonline www.johnlewis.com

Say hello to yoomi combination feeding or fortransitioning your baby frombreast to bottle. With a uniquedevice that warms the milk asit flows through speciallydesigned channels, theyoomi has been nominated asone of the top Britishinventions of the lastdecade. Yoomi costs £23.50 fromwww.yoomi.com, www.johnlewis.com,www.mothercare.com,www.boots.com orwww.jojomamanbebe.co.uk.


Baby & toddler

Many parents complain that their toddler wakesup too early. Whether you need to address thisdepends on what kind of early bird lives in yourhouse. There are two kinds: children who get upbefore they get enough sleep and those who getenough sleep, but wake up too early in the morningfor their parents’ liking. How do you distinguish between the two? If your child is waking up before they are gettingenough sleep they’ll be needing a nap a few hourslater, be grumpy and generally difficult throughout theday. Ask yourself if he’s getting the minimum of 11hours sleep. If not we need to look at techniques tokeep him asleep.

On the other hand, if your toddler gets up full ofbeans and raring to go at 5.30-6am, he’s probablygoing to bed around 7-7.30pm. Remember, your toddlercan sleep only so much, so this is a natural waking timefor him. Think about whether you want an evening toyourself or a lie in. Sadly, we can’t have both. If a lie inis preferred then a later bedtime will help mostchildren. However, take care not to make the bedtimetoo late as ironically a sleep-deprived child will stillawake early! If your child is going to bed too late, he’llbe sleep-deprived and have more trouble sleepingsoundly through the night and into the morning and

thus wake up too early. Initially move your child’sbedtime by 15 minutes, a week later by another 15minutes until you get where you want to be. If you want a7am wake up then you’ll be looking at an 8pm – 8.30pmbedtime.

If your toddler wakes up before getting a full night’ssleep, check to see whether something in hisenvironment is rousing him or keeping him awake andtry to remedy the situation. If sunlight is streaming inhis window at five in the morning, for instance, put upblack out blinds. A leaky nappy can be resolved byputting your toddler in super-absorbent nappies madefor night use. If there’s nothing environmental, then look atwhether your child is able to put himself back to sleep.

Toddlers who require their parents’ presence to fallasleep at bedtime may demand their assistance in themorning, too. Establishing good sleep habits at nightwill most definitely help him to sleep longer in themorning. Self-soothing has to be taught and is essentialfor good sleep. There are lots of techniques available thatdo not involve controlled crying so if you require someassistance to help your little one sleep better whether itbe early waking, night terrors or resistance in going tosleep at bedtime please contact 07842 021210or e-mail [email protected] www.SleepThroughDawn.co.uk

Children that don’t ‘Sleep Through Dawn’

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20

Clubs & classes

Families Cheshire | www.familiescheshire.co.uk

Everyone is good at something, andfinding it is a huge confidence booster.Just because you drop the ball in PEdoesn’t mean you wouldn’t be great atswimming or dancing; the child who isn’tinterested in the bright lights can stillshine in an arts class or on the sports field.

There really is plenty of variety to choosefrom, as we’ve been finding out. Try ouradvertisers - they're here because theywant you to know about them and will behappy to answer any questions you mighthave. For more information all year round,children's activities are also listed on ourwebsite www.familiescheshire.co.ukMusicMusic gives amazing educational anddevelopmental benefits. From just threemonths, babies actively enjoy music groups,and as soon as they can shake a rattle,they can join in too. Belting out a songteaches rhythm and helps develop speech.

Those hand actions you do when yousing nursery rhymes? They boost spatialreasoning, which will later be useful in mathsand science. Playing an instrument is greatfor dexterity and co-ordination. It teachesteamwork and responsibility, and improvesconcentration and memory. At six or seven,children might start with a recorder,keyboard or violin. From eight, guitar is an

option. Brass and wind instruments arebest left to older children, when childrencan join their school band or orchestra.LanguagesWith over 60 different languages now spokenin schools across the UK, we are bringing upour children in a truly multicultural society.

Experts agree that the earlier a childstarts learning other languages, thebetter. Children are extremely receptiveto new ideas and information, especiallywhen they’re having fun.

Preschool language classes buildconfidence and familiarity on an instinctivelevel, typically through songs, dances andsimple games. School age children shouldbe more aware of grammar and syntax,and supplementing school lessons witha language club will pay dividends -boosting their confidence, vocabularyand appreciation of different cultures.Active BodiesRegular exercise is hugely beneficial to longterm health and fitness. It’s easy to see thevalue of activities that help children burnoff some energy at the end of the school day,or build skills in sports which they alreadyenjoy at school. Even the tiniest childrencan benefit from the social side of playingteam games, or the fun element of learning‘solo’ sport like trampolining, tennis or diving.

When children are engaged, they paymore attention - 61% of young people claimto be better behaved in PE than other lessons,in most cases simply because they enjoyit more. This is particularly true amongstboys, and children who admit tomisbehaving at school - of whom 73%claim to be better behaved in PE lessons.Theatre arts“I like acting and pretending to be someoneelse and learning songs and dances withmy friends,” says five-year-old William, whohas attended a children’s performing artsclub for nearly a year. For boosting theconfidence of shy or reserved children,drama can’t be beaten. And the skills thata child learns through performing artsclasses will stand them in good steadthroughout their lives - twenty years downthe line, they’ll thank you when it comes toaddressing a meeting room or chairinga conference.

Performing arts classes are not only forchildren with starry aspirations. Theatrearts bring literature to life, and build self-confidence. Learning to perform in front ofan audience can help children with publicspeaking; role playing and improvisation givetheir minds freedom to develop while developingempathy for other people’s feelings.Arts and CraftsChildren love to get messy, and the chanceto create their own piece of art is somethingspecial. Even the smallest child loves thesensation of clay between fingers, or thethrill of splodging finger paints on paper.

Expressing themselves through the arts- whether through painting, drawing, storywriting or making ‘junk models’ - giveschildren the freedom to unleash theircreativity and push boundaries.

By providing a balance and a creativeoutlet, art skills complement and assistliteracy and numeracy skills in the classroom.If you’re not artistically inclined yourself, ornever have the time to sit down andhelp your child create a wonderful cushion,collage or clay model, why not leave it tothe experts?School supportParents choose out of school academicsubjects for their children for a host ofreasons - perhaps your little one excels inmaths and you want to give them morechallenging and stimulating tuition - ormaybe you simply want to supplementwhat is being taught at school by introducingthe skills needed for independent study andfluency in the subject. Whatever your reason,group or individual tuition can make a hugedifference to your child’s progress andgreatly enhance their school-based studies.

More and more parents, particularlyin London, are hiring private tutors to givetheir child the edge when it comes toachieving in class, or practicing andpreparing for exams. If your child isbringing home good school reports andis happy and settled, there’s no need;however there’s no longer any stigma infinding extra help if you want to, and thebest classes are fun as well as educational.

Practical ConsiderationsWhile it might seem tempting to guide your child to musical, sportingand artistic genius outside the classroom, they need time for just‘chilling’ too. Liz Baker is a parent, and also a school teacher. In herview: “there is no point in enrolling in every class going. Don’t assumeyour child will get an academic head start. They will only benefitacademically when they are ready, and not before. Rememberchildren get exhausted too - give them time to themselves. Childrenshould choose and be given a taste of each activity before deciding ifhe or she wants to commit to it long-term - there’s no gain inputting your child under pressure.”Think ahead. You may need to put your child’s name on a waitinglist, particularly for more popular classes.Stay local.Walking distance is best, otherwise getting there andback becomes another chore.Great staff. The best leaders are enthusiastic, skilled, trained, andhave eyes in the back of their heads to spot children who need alittle more encouragement, particularly when they are new andmight feel shy.Additional costs.Will you need specialist clothes or equipment?Does the club offer these second-hand? Is there an annualsubscription or insurance charge? How much are exam fees?Look-see.Many clubs offer a free trial class, especially if they runon a term basis. If that’s not possible, ask to pay weekly for the firsttwo sessions.Give it time. Some children are prone to dropping out. Unless youthink they are completely and utterly unsuited to the activity, orreally, really hate it, stick it out for at least a couple of terms.

With the constant wail that schools focus on teaching children to pass tests, adding out of schoolactivities gives your child a chance to shine and have fun outside the classroom. Hobbies lead to newfriends, they reveal hidden talents and develop skills that could become a real advantage one day.By Robina Cowen

1. Curriculum boosting After-school activities and clubs are a great way to complementand extend what children have precious little time for at school, especially art, music andlanguages.

2. Socialising Claire, mother of four under 10 year-olds, believes it is important forchildren to make new friends outside school: “It really helps them stand on their own anddevelop their confidence. There isn’t that pecking order thing that you have in theplayground. It’s a chance to break out of whatever mould you’ve been cast in.”

3. After-school careWhen both parents work, after-school activities on school premisescan be incredibly valuable. Most schools offer a mix of teacher-run and externally-organised clubs after school, and even at weekends.

4. A sense of achievement Amanda says: “Kitty, 8, has just reached purple belt and shehas been made karate captain. She’s very proud, it’s tremendously good for her.”

5. For all the familyWhen Patrick started tennis lessons, his parents were inspired to getactive too. Mum Maria has joined a tennis club for adult group coaching, and Dad Mikecycles to and from Patrick’s lessons with him.

Five benefits of extra curricular activities

How much extra-curricular activity do children think they should be doing, andwhat are their favourites?Imogen, 8, says: “I did tap dancing with my friend Molly but I didn’t like it, but I

like Brownies and I’m in the school rounders team. I just wish we beat other schoolsmore often!”

Her brother, Hamish, 11, concentrates on sports: “I do football, cricket andrugby at school, and karate on Saturday mornings. The extra practice means I get onbetter teams at school.”

Danny, 12, says: “When I was younger I did football club, recorder club, cookingand chess club, but now I’m at senior school, I’m just doing football for now.”

Jackson, 9, says: “I go to swimming, football and piano classes. I’d like to give upthe piano because I don’t want to practise every day, but my Mum won’t let me.”

Ruth, 3, says: “I do ballet like Angelina Ballerina and I wear a tutu.”

What do the children say?

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Clubs & classes

Local Jo Jingles Business Women AlisonWright and Eve Kay are celebratingafter scooping up awards this year.

Alison won a Community Award for allthe fantastic work she does for childrenwith additonal needs throughout MidCheshire and Eve won Franchisee of theYear for her expanding businessthroughout Mid Cheshire and North Wales.Thousands of children come to their JoJingles classes each week to enjoy musicand movement with percussion instrumentsand sensory toys. Visit www.jojingles.comto find out more about the leading pre-schoolmusic group and how it can benefit your child.

Jo Jingles is helping Tommy’s Baby Raceat Marbury Park in Northwich on Saturday10th September. Warm up with Big Jo at9.30 and then support this importantearly birth charity. For more details visitwww.tommys.org/babyrace

Coming soon... Autumn 2011 willsee the launch of the popularJabberjacks pre-school classes inChester, Northwich and Winsford.

A unique combination of puppets andmusic is delivered against a backdrop ofdrama and play. Be amazed as yourlittle ones develop physical and socialskills, confidence and knowledge. For more information call Wendy on07519 238263 or visitwww.jabberjacks.co.uk/chester

Clubs & classes


Local Clubs and Classes news

Come and learn alanguage alongsideyour child!“Jolly Polyglots” offers languagetuition to children from as young as18 months through parent/toddlerclasses and pre-school/primaryschool programmes.

As the name suggests, “Jolly Polyglots”hopes to inspire a generation of “buddinglittle linguists” who are happy andenthusiastic to learn languages in a funyet successful way! Christine Cartwright, alocal modern languages teacher with over10 years of experience in both primaryand secondary education, has created anew pre-school programme called “PetitsPois” which uses stories such as “TheHungry Caterpillar” and “Peter Rabbit” tohelp children learn vocabulary confidentlyin a familiar context. Songs, puppets,actions and games are also used toengage the children as they learn!

Parent/Toddler classes run inPrestbury, Poynton and Tytherington sothat parents can come along too and learnhow to reinforce this learning method athome! Private individual or group classescan also be arranged. For further detailsplease see www.jollypolyglots.co.uk

Tennis Tykes for under 5s smashesgovernment targets on physical activityand early learning goals

The government has recently launchednew guidelines for under 5s advising atleast 3 hours of physical activity a dayand this advice comes amid growingconcern about levels of childhoodobesity and new research linking a lackof physical activity with poor braindevelopment and social interaction.

The good news, is that even over thewinter months when it’s harder for childrento get outside and participate in active play,Tennis Tykes is providing lots of opportunitieslocally for children. This indoor educationaltennis skills and play programme for the2-5 year old age group follows the

Launched recently at Glo Family inCheadle is Toddler Time – running eachTuesday from 10am – 12pm and Fridayfrom 2 – 4pm.

This activity session has a different themeeach week, and is followed by juice and abiscuit for the little ones and a more generalplay in the play area. Sessions include “Chooseveg for a soup” (where the soup is made bythe chef and brought out for the children totry – they do vegetable related crafts whilehe’s making it) and “Snap Crackle Pop” (thechildren enjoy crafts, stories and making ricecrispie cakes). Sessions are free formembers, and cost just £2.50 for non-members. Great fun for the kids – andsome relaxing time for mums! Call 0844800 7380 or visit www.glofamily.com formore information.

INTRODUCTORY OFFER

To celebrate the launch ofJabberjacks Chester, Northwich& Winsford, the first tencustomers who book their partyand pay their deposit before 30thSeptember 2011 will be offereda special party price from just£100*

* Terms and conditions apply

NEW OFFER: Jo Jingles is nowoffering selected classes free ofcharge for all babies aged 3-6months – please call your localclass leader for more information.

government’s Early Years FoundationStage and the little tykes all easily exceedthe physical learning goals as they exhibitgreat balance, movement control and co-ordination and the ability to handle andoperate the tennis equipment well.

Tennis Tykes has been running full andsuccessful classes in Bramhall, Didsbury,Knutsford and Wilmslow since May anddue to demand is now extending thetimes of those classes and also addingHale/Bowdon classes on a Wednesdayafternoon. William’s Mum is just one ofthe many happy customers, “We havebeen really impressed by how William’stennis skills have developed sincestarting the classes and each week hecan't wait for the next class to take place. Ionly wish we had Tennis Tykes classeswhen I was his age!”

For further information on Tennis Tykes please call Caroline Buncall on 07843 342662 or log ontowww.tennistykes.co.uk.

Jabberjacks is in town!

Glo Family Toddler Time

Primary School teachergoes raving MAD!!A former primary school teacher hasfinally gone MAD and is devoting allof that energy to singing and dancingwith pre-school children. Kathryn isthe newest member of the excitingMAD Academy network and is settingup a franchise in South Cheshire.

MAD Academy offers hi gh-energy musicand dance classes for babies and childrenaged 3 months to 5 years. What sets the MADAcademy apart are the free spirited and funstyle of the classes which bring to life thebasics of music and dance. The classesinclude well known and fully choreographedchildren's songs, musical instruments todiscover and enjoy, musical guessinggames, lots of movement and singing.

Kathryn Lindblad will be running classes5 mornings a week from September 2011in Alsager, Mossley, Sandbach and HolmesChapel. She feels very fortunate to be able toshare this new opportunity with the childrenin South Cheshire and enable even morebabies and children to experience themagic that is MAD Academy!!

Call or mail Kathryn now on 01270 876628,[email protected]

Jo Jingles Awardsand NEW OFFER

ARTS AND CRAFTSMucky PupsBramhallNikki: 07511 622445www.mucky-pups.com

BABIESBaby Massage TimeLearn to massage your baby the IAIM way;baby massage reduces colic, deepens sleepand enhances bonding and it's a great way tomeet other new Mums. Group or 1:1 coursesin your own home or venues in and aroundCheadle and Poynton. Contact Suzanne 07738 564666 [email protected]

Baby SensoryWilmslow & Bramhall – Tina: 07877 458602Knutsford & Lymm – Laura 07946 672035Congleton & Alsager – Vicky/Jane:07974 359980Chester & The Wirral - Steph: 07814 941048www.babysensory.co.uk

My BabytimeMid CheshireCharlotte: 07590 025253www.mybabytime.co.uk

Sing and SignBaby Signing Classes in South, Mid andEast Cheshire. Teach your baby how tocommunicate before they can speak!Through music, Sing and Sign teaches bothparents and babies signs relevant to baby’slife. These include signs about mealtime,bedtime, bath time, and things all babieslove...animals, vehicles and things at thepark! Baby and toddler classes available. Melissa Buzzard: 01606 [email protected]

YogababyMid CheshireJo: 07850 580855www.yogababycheshire.co.uk

COOKINGCookie Tots & Kiddy CookHale, Altrincham, Bramhall, Wilmslow –Nikki: 07976 619648Stockport/East Cheshire – Mandy: 07411560011www.kiddycook.co.uk

DANCEDancing TotsHoole, ChesterFun creative dance session for 2-4 year olds.Claire: 07801 478548www.co3dance.co.uk

Diddi DanceChesterDance classes for 2-4 year olds. Danielle: 07870 664734www.diddidance.com

Footloose Dance AcademyBallet, Tap & Freestyle dance classes inBollington & Macclesfield.07951 054547www.footloosedanceacademy.co.uk

Fuchsia School of Dance Classes for 3 years Plus in Ballet Tap Modernand Jazz. Knutsford Methodist Church (alsoAdult Ballet) RAD registered teacher andexaminer, RAD ballet exams, ISTD Tap +Modern exams. Biannual show (Feb 2012)Contact Wendy Arshamian ARAD 07792 284974 [email protected]

Starlight Theatre SchoolBramhallAnna: 0161 747 4074www.starlightschool.co.uk

DRAMA AND PERFORMING ARTSHelen O’Grady Drama AcademyStockport & E Cheshire – Kalini: 01625261000South & Mid Cheshire – Brian: 01270765586www.helenogrady.co.uk

MAD AcademyMAD Academy offers high energy, freespirited Music and Dance classes to babiesand children aged 3 months to 5 years. Abrand new set of classes start in Alsager,Mossley, Sandbach and Holmes Chapelin September and everyone is welcome.Call Kathryn on 01270 876628 to bookyour FREE taster session.www.madacademy.com

Pyjama DramaPoynton, Bramhall, Cheadle, Alderly Edgeand Wilmslow – Alison: 0844 504 5119Knutsford, Lymm, Stockton Heath,Appleton/Grappenhall, Northwich – Julie-Anne: 0844 272 6590www.pyjamadrama.com

Stagecoach Theatre Arts SchoolStagecoach provides quality part-timetraining in the performing arts. EarlyStages sessions are suitable for 4-7 yearolds and act as a gentle introduction tothe main schools. In the Main Schoolschildren and teens aged up to 18 learn tosing, dance and act in small groups withspecialist CRB checked teachers.Congleton & Macclesfield – Julie:01260 241017

Chester – Karen/Lindsay: 01244 316187Northwich – Susan: 01606 45132Nantwich – Adele: 01782 397866Stockport – Cathy: 0161 864 3974Wilmslow – Laura: 01616 884292www.stagecoach.co.uk

Star Tuition/SOS (Star on Sunday)KnutsfordToby: 07780 850357www.star-tuition.co.uk

Upstage UKMacclesfield0161 743 1790www.upstageuk.com

FOOTBALLPremier Football CoachingWilmslow01625 415151www.premierfc.com

The Football AcademyMid/East Cheshire07738 239287www.tfa-thefootballacademy.co.uk

Sportsweek Junior Coaching CentresSouth Manchester/Cheshire0161 456 8161www.sportsweeks.net

LANGUAGEPetits PoisFrench for under 5s Parent/Toddler Groups.Come along and learn French alongside yourchild the fun way through familiar stories, withactions, games, songs and crafts! Thursdays:1.45-2.30pm - Prestbury Methodist ChurchFridays: 9:45-10:30am - TytheringtonFamily Worship. Private individual/groupclasses can also be arranged. Please seewww.jollypolyglots.co.uk for full details07714 216655

TinyTalkBaby signing and singing classes for birth to18 months). Want to learn what your baby istrying to tell you? Communicate with your babybefore they can talk? Learn the fun way –through nursery rhymes, action songs,storytime AND extra social time. NEW TinyTalkToddler Talking classes (18 months+) –developing confidence with speech andcommunication through action songs, learningactivities, parachute games and FUN! www.tinytalk.co.uk Northwich & Knutsford areas: Jenny 07968 110670Frodsham, Macclesfield: Claire 07771 747755

The Cheshire Mandarin AcademyAcross Cheshire, 07833 712878www.cheshiremandarin.co.uk

Clubs & classes


Local Clubs & Classes Directory


Clubs & classesLocal Clubs & Classes DirectoryMUSIC & SOCIALCaterpillar MusicMid/East CheshireActivity sessions for 0 - 4 year olds encouragelearning through music in a relaxed and funatmosphere. Classes use activity songs,exciting puppets and colourful percussioninstruments. Each session focuses arounddifferent weekly themes, including jungleanimals, the farm, colours, numbers etc.Caterpillar class is a mixed age group foryoung babies and toddlers and the childrenlove to use the puppets and instruments todevelop good listening skills andcommunicate through play. Butterfly classis for toddlers and pre-school children whoare ready to join in with lots more actionsand music developing their social skills andconfidence. Caterpillar Music parties arealso available for children from 0 - 4 years.Call Jan 01925 860459 for your freeinformation pack or to book your free trial.www.caterpillarmusic.com

Rhythm TimeMusic and singing are fundamental toyour child's development. They help developconfidence, creativity and co-ordination.Classes are offered for babies, toddlers andpre-schoolers. All classes give children thechance to sing, dance, explore, socialiseand have fun while learning about makingmusic. For classes throughout Mid and EastCheshire call Frances on 01270 884 583.For the Chester area call Julia on 07789 867589. www.rhythmtime.net

JabberjacksDeveloping social and physical skills for childrenfrom 6 months to 4 years old, through a uniquecombination of puppets, music and fun.Wilmslow, Macclesfield & Knutsford -Sue: 01625 540999Chester, Northwich & Winsford – Wendy:07519 238263www.jabberjacks.co.uk

Jo JinglesJo Jingles provides fun and educational Music,Singing and Movement classes for babies andyoung children. With the help of our JoJingles doll, trained and experiencedpresenters run the UK’s most popularmusic and movement experience.Cheadle, Bramhall, Wilmslow, Marple, Glossopand Stalybridge: Laura – 0161 431 0674Didsbury, Heaton Moor, Heaton Mersey,Timperley, Hale Barns and Lymm: Jacqui01925 269136Alsager, Congleton, Holmes Chapel,Middlewich, Sandbach, Macclesfield &surrounds: Alison 01477 535124Tarporley, Chester, Frodsham, Hartford,Helsby, Kelsall, Knutsford, Mold, MynyddIsa, Nantwich, Sandiway, Saltney, Winsfordand Wrexham: Eve 01926 739966www.jojingles.co.uk

RUBGYChester Rugby Clubwww.chester-rufc.comCongleton Rugby Clubwww.pitchero.com/clubs/congletonCrewe & Nantwich Rugby Clubwww.pitchero.com/clubs/creweandnantwichKnutsford Rugby Clubwww.knutsfordrugby.comMacclesfield Rugby Clubwww.macclesfieldrufc.comNorthwich Rugby Clubwww.northwichrufc.co.ukSandbach Rugby Clubwww.sandbachrufc.co.ukWilmslow Rugby Clubwww.pitchero.com/clubs/wilmslowWinnington Park Rugby Clubwww.pitchero.com/clubs/winningtonpark

SPORTS and ACTIVITIESEnjoy-a-ball Sports Coaching for ChildrenChester area - Gary: 07796 190169www.enjoy-a-ball.com

Glo FamilyCheadleA totally new concept in play centres anda location for many classes from dancingand drama to baby massage and music.Daily craft sessions for your little onesand twice weekly “Toddler Time”. Classesalso run for mums including pregnancyand post natal sessions. For full details ofthe extensive list of what’s on [email protected] 0844 800 7380

Gymbabes/Tumble Tots/GymbobsDesigned to develop children’s physicalskills of agility, balance, co-ordinationand climbing, through the use of brightlycoloured Tumble Tots equipment.Wilmslow & Macclesfield – Nicky:07814 020 095Alsager, Congleton, Holmes Chapel,Nantwich & Northwich – Ann: 07810 513 845Lymm & Knutsford – Melanie: 07812 144450Chester – Jackie: 01244 303127www.tumbletots.com

Kanazawa Shotokan Karate CentreClasses for Seniors and Juniors (7yrsplus) in Wilmslow and Cheadle Hulme.01625 [email protected]

Little KickersAt Little Kickers the focus is on fun as footballis used as a forum to instil a little extraconfidence, co-ordination, control and senseof camaraderie. Classes run in four distinctage groups, to maximise involvement anddevelopment. Age groups range from just18 months to 7 years. For classes in theEast Cheshire area call 01625 326177. Or for the Chester area call 01829 271166. www.littlekickers.co.uk

Little SuperstarsWest & South Manchester / CheshireLouise: 07904 344552www.littlesuperstars.co.uk

Pixies CheerleadingPoynton & KnutsfordKelli: 07852 903909www.pixiescheer.co.uk

PlaymakersMacclesfield/Wilmslow01625 520333www.premierfc.com

Tennis TykesAn educational tennis play and skillsprogramme for children aged 2-5 yearsold. All classes are run by qualified andtrained staff, use specially adaptedequipment with personal achievementcharts for every child. Classes now inBramhall, Didsbury, Hale, Knutsford andWilmslow. For further information,please log onto the Tennis Tykeswebsite at www.tennistykes.co.ukor call Caroline Buncall on 07843 342662.

SWIMMINGPuddle DucksClasses across CheshirePuddle Ducks is a fun and friendlyswimming programme offering uniquebaby, toddler and pre-school swimmingclasses. Children develop fromsplashing and kicking to graceful,efficient Swimmers - a delight to watch.By engaging each child’s abilities andnatural affinity with water, Puddle Ducksoffer simple steps to a lifetime love ofswimming. Children learn lifesaving,swimming and underwater skills insmall classes of up to 8 children andare often able to swim 10 metres ormore before they start school. Call 01477 410080 for classes in Midand East Cheshire or 01829 739073 forclasses in the Chester area. www.puddleducks.com

SwimaboutHandforthSimon: 07515 252708www.swimabout.net

Water BabiesMid & East Cheshire – Anna: 01270 611111Chester & Liverpool – Alison: 01925 243643www.waterbabies.co.uk


What’s on

October Half-term Activities For Children -Witches & Wizards Academy

They will be running Witches & Wizards AcademyWorkshops for children in Alderley Edge this Octoberhalf term on Thursday 27th from 9am-3pm. Children areinvited to train to be Witches and Wizards at these fullday workshops full of creative activities. Children cancome along dressed in their favourite costumes and willcelebrate the end of the day with a party disco. Theworkshops are delivered by experienced staff and it’sgreat entertainment for the children during the holidays.They are also on the voluntary OFSTED register andaccept childcare vouchers for their workshops.

Fantasy Kids Clubs sister company Make a WishEntertainment also run magical Halloween parties hostedby real characters. You set the date and they willentertain your little devils allowing you to relax and enjoythe party.

For more information and to book a place on one oftheir workshops please contact Fantasy Kids Clubs on01924 281365 or visit their websitewww.fantasykidsclubs.co.uk.

Do you have children wanting to get dressed up with no party to go to thisHalloween? Then celebrate autumn in style with Fantasy Kids Clubs.

Sat 17 & Sun 18 SeptGulliver’s WorldPeppa Pig10.30am – 5pmNormal admission prices apply

Sun 18 SeptWilmslow High School (A34 entrance)Kids Car Boot & Swap Shop10am – 12pm, Table costs £10 Entrance 50p

Tues 20 – Sun 25 SeptTatton ParkMoscow State CircusSee website for costs & timings

Sat 24 SeptQuarry Bank MillRamble through the seasons: Autumn9.30am – 12pmAdult £10, Child £5, Booking essentialTatton ParkKiddy Cook10am – 12pm, Max age 12£22, Booking Essential

Sat 24 & Sun 25 SeptStretton WatermillVictorian Harvest Weekend12 noon – 5pm, Age 4 – 12 (must beaccompanied), FreeTatton ParkHarvest Festival12 – 5pm, Normal admission charges apply.Blakemere Craft CentreHarvest FestivalFree admission and parking.

ActivitiesUntil Sat 8 OctChester ZooDinosaurs at Large!Normal admission prices apply

Sat 10 SeptDelamere ForestFungal Foray10am – 3pmChildren must be accompanied£4.50 per person, Book in advanceRomany Memorial Gardens, SouthDrive, WilmslowRomany Open Day12pm – 3pmChildren must be accompaniedTegg’s Nose Visitor CentreTegg’s Nose Bramble Pick10am – 1pm

Sat 10 & Sun 11 SeptWater Tower, City Walls, ChesterHeritage Open Days: The MedievalWater Tower10am – 4pmAge 4 – 12 (must be accompanied)Free, drop inGulliver’s WorldGrandparents WeekendIt’s Time To Treat Your Grandparents!10.30am – 5pmNormal admission prices applyHigh Legh Garden CentreFestival of TransportFree AdmissionAny donations made go to North West AirAmbulance Service

Sun 11 SeptWaterside Hotel, DidsburyMother's Instinct Baby & Toddler Show12 - 5pm, FREE entry

Sun 9 OctTatton ParkKiddy Cook10am – 12pm, Max age 12£22, Booking EssentialTatton ParkApple DayNormal admission charges applyStockport Art GalleryThe Big Draw Weekend11am – 2pm, All ages, Free, drop in

Fri 14 OctThe Moor, KnutsfordCommunity Planting Session 10am – 12pm

Sat 15 OctMarbury Country ParkFungal Foray Sessions from 10 am – 12.00 and 1 pm – 3 pm Free, but advance booking essential.

Sat 15 – Mon 31 OctLegoland Discovery Centre, ManchesterLEGO® HalloweenNormal admission prices apply.Blakemere Craft Centre & Destination 49Scarecrow Trail

Fri 21 – Sun 23 OctTatton ParkNorth West Food Lovers FestivalNormal admission charges apply

Sat 22 OctRanger Centre, West ParkMinibeast Magic1pm – 3pm, Adults Free, Children £2Booking and payment in advanceessential. 01625 383777

Sun 25 SeptChester ZooRun for the Wild8.30am, All ages, Adults £10, Children £5

Sat 1 OctTarporley Community CentreNCT Nearly New Sale1-3pm, £1 entry fee

Sat 1 & Sun 2 OctQuarry Bank MillAutumn Fair9.30am – 12pm, Free eventNormal admission charges apply

Wed 5 OctStockport Air Raid SheltersExplorer Tour7pm, Age 10+, Adults £6.10, Under 16’s £5.10, Booking Essential

Sat 8 OctHatworks, StockportThe Big Draw Weekend11am – 2pm, All ages, Free, drop inSouth Park Football PitchBonkers for Conkers1pm – 3pm, Adults Free, Children £2Booking and payment in advanceessential. 01625 383777

Sat 8 & Sun 9 OctDunham MasseyThe Big Draw12pm – 4pmNormal admission charges apply.


What’s on These listings are for guidance only – please check before you goto include your upcoming event in our listings, email [email protected]

Sat 22 – Wed 26 OctQuarry Bank MillFungus Walks10am – 2pm, Adult £10, Child £5Normal admission charges applyBooking Essential

Sat 22 – Sun 30 OctTatton Park (Closed Monday 24)Get Squashed in the GardensNormal admission charges apply

Gulliver’s WorldSpooky Halloween Week & FireworkSpectacular10.30am – 5pmNormal admission prices applyLyme ParkWalking Festival – explore the parkwith Freddy the Fox11am – 4pm, Children must be accompaniedFree eventNormal admission charges apply.Lyme ParkWelly Walk11am – 12pmAll ages. Children must be accompaniedFree event, Normal admission charges apply.Biddulph Grange GardenHalloween10.30am – 5.30pmChildren must be accompaniedFree event. Normal admission charges apply

Mon 24 OctGrosvenor Museum, Newstead GalleryBallerinas2-4 pm, Age 4 – 12 (must be accompanied)Free, drop in

Mon 24 & Tues 25 OctLyme ParkGhostly Goings On12 noon – 4pmAge 6+ (must be accompanied), £2Normal admission charges apply.

Mon 24 – Fri 28 OctDunham MasseyFamily Walks in the Park1.30 – 2.30pmNormal admission charges apply.

Mon 24 – Sat 29 OctQuarry Bank MillHalloween Spook-tacular11am – 4pm. Free eventNormal admission charges apply

Tues 25 OctLyme ParkSpooky Stories1pm – 3pm, Age 6+ (must be accompanied)£3 per activityNormal admission charges apply.Grosvenor Museum, Newstead GalleryPull along trains2-4pm, Age 4 – 12 (must be accompanied)Free, drop in

Tues 25 – Thurs 27 OctHatworks, StockportSpooky Halloween Masks10.30am – 12pm / 1pm – 2.30pm, Age 5-11£3.50 or Leisure Key £3.00 (limited places)Booking Essential

Tues 25 – Sun 30 OctTatton ParkHalloween Hauntings at the Old HallAge 12 – 5pm, Adult £5, Child £3 (under 5’s free), Family £13. Normal admission charges apply

Wed 26 OctGrosvenor Museum, Exhibition GalleryTwo, Newstead Gallery & Lecture TheatreDiscover the Mystery Plays11am – 4pm (music & singing sessionsat 11.30am & 2.30pm)Age 4 – 12 (must be accompanied)Free, drop inStockport Air Raid SheltersChildren’s Explorer Tour6.45 – 8pm, Age 7+ (must be accompanied)£3.95 per child, accompanying adults £2Booking EssentialDelamere ForestBat Walk (for children)6.30 – 8.30pmChildren must be accompanied£4 per person, Book in advanceBiddulph Grange GardenPumpkin Carving WorkshopWorkshops at 10.30am, 11.30am & 2.30pmChildren must be accompanied£5 per workshopNormal admission charges apply

Wed 26 – Fri 28 OctLyme ParkPetrified Pumpkins11am – 1pm and 2pm – 4pmChildren must be accompanied£4 per childNormal admission charges apply.

Wed 26 – Sat 29 OctHatworks, StockportSpooky Children’s Tour2.30 – 3.30pm, Age 5+Child £2.00 Accompanying Adult £1.00Booking Essential

Wed 26 – Sun 30 OctLittle Moreton HallHalf Term Horrors1pm – 3pmAge 4+ (must be accompanied)Free eventNormal admission charges apply.

Thurs 27 OctGrosvenor Museum, Newstead GalleryEasy Printing2-4pmAge 4 – 12 (must be accompanied)Free, drop inThe Pavilion, South ParkCommunity Planting Session1pm – 3pm

Fri 28 OctGrosvenor Museum, Newstead GalleryBuild a bridge with straws2-4pmAge 4 – 12 (must be accompanied)Free, drop inDelamere ForestSpooky Halloween Walk7.30 – 9pm, Age 10+Children must be accompanied£5 per person, Book in advance

Delamere ForestPumpkin carving10.30am – 12pm or 1.30pm – 3pmChildren must be accompanied£4.50 per person, Book in advance

Fri 28 – Sun 30 OctLyme ParkGhostly Goings On12 noon – 4pmAge 6+ (must be accompanied)£2, Normal admission charges apply.

Sat 29 OctChurnet Valley RailwayThe Ghost TrainDead on arrival on the Graveyard Express.Bookings taken from 5 SeptemberBooking essential

Sun 30 OctWilmslow High School (A34 entrance)Kids Car Boot & Swap Shop10am – 12pmTable costs £10 Entrance 50p


What’s onVisit www.familiescheshire.co.uk for more information on these listings.

WIN WIN WIN WIN WIN

Win a family ticket to see “Scrooge” at The Lowry!

Scrooge is the ultimate in family entertainment this Christmas with great songs, abrilliant story and wonderfully bright and funny characters. This wonderful musicalstarring Tommy Steele, is coming to The Lowry from Mon 12 December to Sat7 January, and you can win a family ticket for the press night on 13 December.

Simply go to our website www.familiescheshire.co.uk to enter by answeringthe following question:Which famous Dickens’ story is Scrooge is based on?Entries close Monday 31 October.

If you’re not lucky enough to win, you can by tickets for the show by calling0843 208 6010 or log on to www.thelowry.com/scrooge. For details of their‘children eat free’ offer have a look at www.thelowry.com/eat

Contact information:

Biddulph Grange Garden: 01782 517999 / www.nationaltrust.org.ukBlakemere Craft Centre: 01606 883261 / www.visitblakemere.co.ukCheshire East Rangers: www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/rangersChester Zoo: 01244 650240 / www.chesterzoo.orgChurnet Valley Railway: 01538 750755 / www.churnet-valley-railway.co.ukDelamere Forest: 01606 889792 / www.forestry.gov.uk/delamereDestination 49: www.destination49.co.ukDunham Massey: 0161 9411025 / www.nationaltrust.org.ukGrosvenor Museum: 01244 402110 / www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/visitingGulliver’s World: 01925 444888 / www.gulliversfun.co.ukHatworks: 0161 355 7770 / www.hatworks.org.uk High Legh Garden Centre: 01925 756991 / www.klondyke.co.uk/node/21Kiddy Cook: Nikki Geddes 07976 619648 / www.kiddycook.co.ukKids Car Boot & Swap Shop: 07748 601248 / www.kidscarbootandswapshop.co.ukLegoland Discovery Centre: 0871 222 2662 / www.legolanddiscoverycentre.co.ukLittle Moreton Hall: 01260 272018 / www.nationaltrust.org.ukLyme Park: 01663 762023 / www.nationaltrust.org.ukMarbury Country Park:01606 44727 / www.northwichwoodlands.org.uk/woodland/marbury.shtmlMoscow State Circus: 0844 856 5555 / www.moscowstatecircus.comNCT Tarporley & District: Tracey 01829 733207 / www.nct.org.ukNorth West Food Lovers Festival: 01244 355474 / www.nwfoodloversfestival.comQuarry Bank Mill: 01625 445845 / www.nationaltrust.org.ukStockport Air Raid Shelters: 0161 474 1940 / www.airraidshelters.org.ukStockport Art Gallery: 0161 355 7770 / www.stockport.gov.uk/artgalleryStretton Water Mill: 01244 402110 / www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/visitingTatton Park: 01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

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What’s on

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Documents

Families Cheshire Issue 13 Sept-Oct 11