Families Gloucestershire Issue 13 March - April 2013

For families with young children aged 0-12 in Gloucestershire

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

HOW TO GET HELP IF YOUR CHILD HAS SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS

Easter Holiday

ACTIVITY GUIDE!

FREE!Mar/Apr 2013Issue 13

WIN... A VIP package to HOME & GARDEN PARTY at Gloucester Quays

CONTENTS2–3...NEWS & VIEWS

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March/April 2013 www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

Email: [email protected]: 0788 181 5962Online: www.familiesgloucestershire.co.ukFacebook: familiesglosTwitter: @familiesglos

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Cover PhotographBy Malcolm Fenna

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Families Gloucestershire is part of the Families Group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care in preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.Paper used to print Families Gloucestershire is from fully managed sustainable sources - meaning trees which are felled are continuously replaced. Inks are soya based, which can be recycled.

2

Jungle Queen reigns supreme at launch of ‘Great Mums Get Together’ for CLIC Sargent ‘Queen of The Jungle’ Charlie Brooks is calling on great British mums across the UK to get together with friends and family to raise money for CLIC Sargent, the UK’s leading cancer charity for children and young people. Eastenders favourite, Charlie, hosted elevenses for !ve mothers whose children are currently undergoing treatment and heard about their direct experience with childhood cancer and how they had been supported by the charity. The tea party was held to launch the ‘Great Mums Get Together’, which will be rolled out for one week every year, and starts on Mother’s Day. This year’s event runs from Sunday 10th March to Sunday 17th March in 2013, but you can still take part in this event after the 17th March 2013. James King, Fundraising Manager for Gloucestershire at CLIC Sargent said: “We’re delighted to have the support of Charlie for the ‘Great Mums Get Together’. The campaign encourages mums to hold any type of event from cake sales and co"ee mornings to dinner parties or pamper nights and have a great time knowing that all the money raised from their event will make a real di"erence to families a"ected by childhood cancer”. For more information visit www.clicsargent.co.uk/gettogether or call 08451 206 658 to register for your fundraising pack.

News and Views

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk March/April 2013 3

Leading UK based international kids’ labelling specialist Labels4Kids is launching their new look website for March 2013. With the cost of new clothing, shoes and other belongings increasing all the time, high quality labelling helps families save money by ensuring lost property can be easily returned.The new Labels4Kids website makes ordering so much easier and you can even try designing your labels on the site prior to ordering. The fun site covers labelling for your children, your sport requirements, camping, corporate and even care home items for grandparents. In addition they have a fully personalised clothing site with a separate checkout to produce high quality clothing in both climacool and normal ranges. See the full range by ordering at www.labels4kids.com/fam today.

Many parents don’t realise the risks posed to toddlers and mobile babies by looped blind cords. Unfortunately, 12 young children have died in UK homes in the last two years alone, from blind cord strangulation. Families Gloucestershire has 10 Cord Lock Away child safety wands to give away. Cord Lock Away is the only safety device that doesn’t need screwing into the wall and raises the cord out of harm’s way, without a"ecting operation of the blind. It is universal for all continuous looped cords and beaded chains and is recommended for every window blind in the home, not just a child’s room. Available from John Lewis, it comes in two sizes, one for windows and one for patio doors.

To enter this competition simply go to www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk/competitions

Closing date Friday 26th April 2013

Baby First Aid coursesFirst Aid is a vital skill that can be called on when you least expect it. Add a baby to the equation and there are a whole host of new risks to be aware of.NCT has partnered with British Red Cross trainers to run Baby First Aid courses, covering all the basic principles including choking, bleeding and loss of consciousness. A 2-hour course includes practical activities and the opportunity to ask questions.Cost is £25 per person or £45 per couple. The next course in the Cheltenham area is Thursday 4th April from 10am-12 midday at The Brizen Centre, Up Hatherley Way, Cheltenham. GL51 4BBEmail Shelley on [email protected] to reserve your place.Further courses are planned for July and October. Visit www.nct.org.uk/cheltenham for more details.

Reviews for parents….

by parents

Show me a StoryBy Emily K NeuburgerPublished by Storey PublishingRRP £11.99 A wonderful book to help you inspire children’s imaginations. Speci!cally written to develop children’s storytelling skills, it has 40 projects and activities for a single child or big group. The idea is that children make props then use them as prompts to kick-start and develop stories. Paint characters on stones; invent the history of an everyday object; pass on a plot with Story Ping Pong! It also guides adults on encouraging storytelling and how to structure stories. Perfect at home, outside or travelling, this is a fabulous, fun resource full of colourful photographs.

Families Rating: 6 out of 6 Reviewed by Jan Deykin

Dear Son, what I wish I’d known at your ageBy Roy SheppardPublished by Centre PublishingRRP £11.99 Roy Sheppard has managed to articulate clearly some basic and practical “real-world” advice on what it is to be a man in the 21st century. Roy’s well-conceived guidance is designed to help young men gain a better understanding of themselves, their masculinity and the world around. Topics include: what you need to know about the world of work, what rich people know about money that poor people don’t, understanding your emotions, how to develop con!dent relationships with others, how to gain a better understanding of women, understanding risk, how to build a solid personal and professional reputation, negotiating and other life skills.

Families Rating: 5 out of 6Reviewed by Louise Turner

Love Bombing – Reset Your Child’s Emotional ThermostatBy Oliver JamesPublished by Karnac BooksRRP £9.99 Love Bombing is an interesting and innovative way of addressing a wide range of emotionally challenging behaviour with the aim of getting the parent-child relationship back on track. It is a very accessible self-help book. Oliver James starts by explaining what Love Bombing is and how and why it works. Each chapter looks at the types of behaviour that cause the relationship problems and then documents relevant case studies of Love Bombing being applied, the outcomes and longer term behavioural change. I found it both an intriguing and inspiring read and would recommend it to any parent seeking to improve their relationship with their child.

Families Rating: 5 out of 6Reviewed by Rosie Elphinstone

launches new web site

A CORD LOCK AWAY CHILD SAFETY WANDWIN

4

When I became pregnant, I felt like I’d stepped through the looking glass. I’d

been focusing on my career and never paid too much attention to family life, but suddenly it was everywhere, and I’d unwittingly joined a new club. There were new rules, and I was playing catch-up, but I soon began to feel at home in this warm, welcoming world of bumps and babies. But when my child’s behaviour started to go o! the rails, at just 18 months, it stretched the welcome of my new world to the limit. I was forced, eventually, to step through another looking glass – into the world of Special Educational Needs (SEN). I decided to write this article to help other parents to access the services they may need right at the start of their SEN journey. Every child is di!erent and will need their own, personal help, so one solution doesn’t "t all. But the SEN system can be a maze, and "nding the right people and organisations to help you through it is all-important. I hope that if you’re struggling with the fact that your child seems di!erent from his or her peers, you’ll "nd something on these pages that will help.

My top tips:See your doctorYour !rst port of call is your GP. If you feel something is wrong, you don’t need to wait for the nursery or school to tell you (although they will, if they feel your child is struggling). Depending on your child’s symptoms, your GP can refer you to CYPS (the Children and Young People’s Service – see Useful Contacts for details), a Speech and Language therapist or a paediatrician. If you’re referred to CYPS, ask as soon as possible about the length of the waiting list, as it sometimes can be long.

Don’t be ashamedYour child’s disability is not your fault, you didn’t ask for it and beating yourself up about it won’t help anyone. It’s natural to feel sad that your high-#ying dreams for your child might not now come true, but he/she is still your child and needs you. In Gloucestershire, we are lucky to have a free peer emotional support service called Face 2 Face (see below for contact details). Befrienders are trained volunteers who have a child with additional needs or disability themselves so can empathise with the range of emotions a parent might be feeling. They can o"er support over the phone or meet up.

Keep talking to your child’s school/nurseryIf your child is at nursery or school, liaise with the nursery manager or head teacher about your child’s progress and behaviour, and keep them informed of any changes outside school/nursery. This can help to build up a full picture of the child’s environment, which might shed some light on the problem. Don’t get defensive – they will be trying to help you and your child, not judging you. The Parent Partnership Service is a free, impartial service to support parents with all aspects of SEN and education – so advice, appeals, diagnosis, accessing specialists etc. They have very useful factsheet on their website (see below).

Get reading Once you have received a diagnosis – or even before – read up on the problem, or what you think it is. I have amassed quite a library on Attachment Disorder, Autism, Asperger Syndrome, ADHD, in#exible children and special diets! Be aware, though, that it’s all too easy to misdiagnose your child from a book or the internet – many symptoms

overlap di"erent diagnoses, and some behavioural problems actually have their roots in physical or emotional di$culties. For instance, a child who is dyslexic might act badly through frustration, or a child with hearing problems might switch o" in class because they can’t hear the teacher. It’s important to see the professionals to get a proper diagnosis.

Reach out and make connectionsJoin a support group, even before diagnosis. This might be controversial, but having a child with an SEN can be isolating, and meeting others in a similar situation – whatever their children’s di$culties – can help you feel less alone. It’s also true that there is help out there that can’t normally be accessed before diagnosis, and you can !nd out about it at these groups.

Become a “Velvet Bulldozer”Sandy Row, a mother of four adopted children with autism, has written a book called The Velvet Bulldozer about her determined battle with the authorities to get her children properly diagnosed and supported. If you feel you’re not getting appropriate support, don’t just give up – sometimes you have to !ght for the best for your child. Get in touch with the Family Information Service (FIS)Gloucestershire’s Family Information Service is for every family, not just those with disabled children, but they have a range of information on topics including childcare, !nance, activities and additional support. They o"er extra help to families who may have di$culty accessing services or those with additional needs. If the service doesn’t have the information you need they will put you in touch with services that can help and in certain cases !nd information for you. See Useful Contacts box for details.

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Education


by Gabrielle Starkey


Education

/RFDO�SODFHV�IRU�FKLOGUHQ�ZLWK�GLIҕFXOWLHVThe Hop, Skip and Jump Cotswolds Centre is based at Seven Springs, about four miles from Cheltenham. Providing a fantastic range of day care, respite care and support to children with special needs and their families, the centre promises a “carefree environment where there are no sneers or stares”. The Centre includes adventure playgrounds, soft play, quiet rooms, therapy, arts and crafts room, sports facilities and sensory rooms amongst other facilities. See www.hopskipandjump.org.uk for more details and information.Bournstream is a unique adventure playground just outside Wotton-under-Edge, about half way between Gloucester and Bristol. Equipped with a giant sandpit, a playhouse, cycle pathways, play equipment, a football pitch and other facilities, the most special thing about the playground is that it is not open to the general public and its dedicated use is only for children and young people with disabilities and special needs, their families and their carers. Sta"ed by volunteers, Bournstream is a safe and secure environment where everyone will be understanding and which has been described as a “unique oasis”. For more information call Jinny Rawlings on 01531 820693 or visit www.bournstream.org.uk/

By Caroline Capon, Director of Primary Education and SEN at Cotswold Education

Useful Contacts

CYPS (Children and Young People’s Service)

Service provides specialist emotional and mental health

care for young people up to the age of 18.

Tel: 01452 894000 or visit www.2gether.nhs.uk/cyps

Face 2 Face

Call Angela Spence on 07818 048668 or visit

www.scope.org.uk/services/gloucestershire-face-2-face-

scheme

Parent Partnership Service

Call 0800 158 3603 or 01452 389344/5 or visit

www.glospps.org.uk/

The KeyInformation, advice on transitions, funding and benefit

entitlements, leisure activities and equipment. For more

information visit

www.keywords.org.uk/

CADCAF (Cheltenham and District Carers and

Families)

A family support group for families and carers who care for

children with special needs. Mutual support, information

exchange and holiday activities. Visit www.cadcaf.com/ for

more information

AllsortsYouth clubs for children with additional needs and their

siblings, parent/carer support group, early years group,

subsidised trips and activities, toy library, access to a list of

babysitters and links with specialist support groups.

Visit www.allsortsglos.org.uk/ for more information

I CAN Charity supporting children’s communication offering

a free call-back service from a Speech and Language

Therapist who can suggest ideas to develop communication

skills, provide expert answers to your questions and ways to

support your child at pre-school or school.

Visit www.ican.org.uk/en/What-we-do

British Dyslexia Association

www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/

Special People

Autism support group that puts on talks by inspirational

people in the Autism field. Run by Kenilworth parents

Julie and Neil Thomas, whose son Jack is on the autistic

spectrum.

www.facebook.com/specialpeopleuk/

Family Information Services (FIS)

Very helpful impartial service. Call 0800 5420202 or 01452

427362, email: [email protected], visit

www.glosfamiliesdirectory.org.uk. You can also follow them

on Facebook (Family Information Service Gloucestershire)

or follow @GlosFIS on Twitter

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Private tutoring can help children with Special Educational Needs in a variety of ways. A tutor can plan a bespoke learning support programme for each young person, building on children’s successes. They can adapt work to take account of the child’s unique learning style and preferences focussing on their speci!c interests as a valuable springboard to learning.The tutor can also work in collaboration with both parents and school to ensure consistency in learning and good communication. In a one-to-one environment, the child can also be nurtured and encouraged without the distractions that can occur in a busy classroom. SEN Tutors are able to employ a variety of more specialised learning tools where appropriate, such as the Toe by Toe programme, for children with dyslexia.Perhaps most importantly, private tuition helps children to gain con!dence, discover a passion for learning and enable and support them to ful!l their potential. For more information contact Cotswold Education by email [email protected], phone 01242 572411 or visit www.cotswoldeducation.co.uk

Education

March/April 2013 www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk6

Stonehouse, Gloucestershire GL10 2LD www.wycliffe.co.uk

Wycliffe Nursery & Preparatory SchoolCo-educational day and boarding school for 2 – 13 years.

makesWycliffe

the difference

For more information please call Wendy Robertson on 01453 820471.

Small class sizes, individual learning and daily mini bus service available. Wycliffe has more choice, better facilities, excellent results.

Reading out loud in class ‘does children no good’Well-loved children’s author Julia Donaldson has said that reading aloud in class is too “wooden” to interest children in books, and instead they should be taught how to read by acting out plays. The Children’s Laureate has suggested that reading aloud makes children feel like they are being tested, rather than inspiring them. The author of The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom said that when she visits a classroom she takes small groups of students aside and works on the play with them, before reading it to the rest of the class. “It can develop children’s reading as well as build confidence”, she said. The author launches a new series of short plays written especially for schools this winter, including plays by authors such as Vivian French, Alison Hawes and Steve Barlow.

English schools climb the international league table in reading thanks to phonics. PIRLS, the

international comparison of reading teaching achievement, has published results showing that !gures for reading in England have improved signi!cantly, with the country moving up 8 places to number 11th. “It’s incredibly good news to see England rising up the table,” said Chris Jolly, Publisher of Jolly Learning, the synthetic phonics programme of choice for many primary schools. “There is still work to be done though; we need to work harder in reducing the widespread range of achievement in England, and the huge di"erence between girls and boys which is unreasonably high. Synthetic phonics has shown over the years what a fantastic di"erence it makes for helping children to learn to read and write. I see no reason why we shouldn’t be challenging for the number 1 position currently held by Hong Kong and Russia.”

“Every child is an artist”In the Kindergarten at St Edward’s you will !nd a beautiful new Atelier space where the children are inspired to be creative. This term they have used materials collected from the grounds to build their own bon!res, they have looked at our snowy days and constructed a winter tree and they have seen the transformation of a balloon and paper to create papier-mâché models. Paint brushes are kept

in pots made from a fallen tree in the grounds and the room is full of coloured paints, crayons, felts and feathers. “The space is a real inspiration and in this short term the con!dence and creativity of the children has blossomed” explains Mrs Young, Head of Kindergarten.As Pablo Picasso says “Every Child is an Artist” - and that’s certainly true at St Edward’s. For more information visit www.stedwards.co.uk

Long divisio rulesFrom now on, children are to be awarded extra marks for using long division in maths, as long division and multiplication make a return to maths exams. As part of a Government incentive to increase standards in primary schools, 11 year olds will receive extra marks for using traditional methods of calculation in their Sats tests. Even if they end up with the wrong answer, the workings-out of sums will receive additional marks. The changes are due to be introduced from 2016 and coincide with the introduction of a new primary maths curriculum which places greater strength on times tables and mental arithmetic, plus calculators will be banned in maths tests sat by 11-year-olds at the end of primary school.The draft national curriculum for primary maths says that GLMPHVIR�WLSYPH�PIEVR�́ IJ¿GMIRX�GEPGYPEXMSR�QIXLSHWµ��WYGL�EW�short and long multiplication and division, and that nine-year-olds should know all their times tables up to 12x12 and GSR¿HIRXP]�[SVO�[MXL�RYQFIVW�YT�XS��QMPPMSR�F]�XLI�IRH�SJ�primary school.

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Distributors Wanted...

Families Gloucestershire is looking for distributors in the Gloucester and Tewkesbury areas. If you have a car, a few hours to spare every month and would like to earn some extra

money, please contact Deborah on

07881815962 or email [email protected]

Education

7

How to learn times tablesBy Elisabeth Dolton

Show them the tricks of the trade

Further ways to help them memorise

Games to reinforce the multiplication facts

Keep it fun

And keep it up!

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk March/April 2013

2 84

x

=3 62

x

=

Start with explaining the concept

Learning the times tables is an important skill that is the foundation for all maths. With an extensive maths curriculum, and the latest stipulation being that children should master their tables up to 12x12 by the age of nine, teachers need parents help in getting children to learn the basic facts. Finding a pain-free method of learning times tables is not easy, but these tips and techniques should help you make major progress.

If your child understands that multiplication is repeated addition, they will have an easier time learning them. Using objects such as crayons, illustrate a simple times table such as 3 x 2. Make two groups of three crayons, then count the crayons. Continue until they understand that multiplication is just adding a series of numbers, 6 x 4 means 6 added together 4 times (6 + 6 + 6 + 6). Create a number line from 0 to 100. Show them the pattern to working out each multiple, i.e. the three times table answers are every third number. End by encouraging them to write out the times tables on paper, using addition, up to 12.

Now they need to start learning the facts, rather than by counting. Learn the tricks of the trade !rst, e.g. any number times by 10 is the number with a zero on the end, e.g. 10 x 5 = 50. They are all listed on www.mathsisfun.com/tables.html

Your aim now is to recite memorised facts quickly and in any order. If your child is a visual learner, purchase or make #ashcards. Write the problem, like 4 x 9, on the front, and the answer, 36, on the back. Buy or create a times table poster and display key facts. Times tables raps and music CDs are great for an auditory learner. Chant the times tables as multiples 0, 5, 10, 15, etc. and also as sentences 1%5=5, 2%5=10, etc. Say di$cult times tables in a funny

voice, a squeak or a whisper. Use helpful rhymes to remember really tricky ones, e.g. 8 x 8 = 64 becomes “He ate and he ate and he sticks in the door, eight times eight is sixty-four”. For a kinaesthetic approach, add actions. Children can clap, stamp or jump on the di$cult fact. Play ‘Knock, Knock’ –knock your !sts twice on the #oor, then put out the number of !ngers of a times tables. The winner is the !rst to say the answer.

After your child has a basic knowledge of the tables, games will help instil the recollection of correct facts quickly. Multiplication Bingo, Hoo Ha!, Know Your Times Tables and Math Whiz are great board games.

There are a whole host of multiplication computer games – multiplication.com,

Learn-timestables.com, themathsfactor.com,

mathsisfun.com, maths-games.org, and computer apps such as Squeebles, Ghost Blasters, Multiple

Wipeout. Another idea is to print o"

worksheets from Multiplication.com

or Enchanted Learning, math.about.com

Hallelujah! Your continued energy and enthusiasm is very important –

go at their pace and always praise their e"orts. Aim to reward your children with every bit of progress made; it doesn’t have to be material things, just a bit of fun

together. Take breaks often, relax, give lots of ‘high !ves’, and real compliments.

After memorising times tables, it can be all too easy to forget them! Don’t give up too soon. It can take six or seven weeks until the facts are truly automatic. Practice quick-!re drilling. There are numbers everywhere, so multiply the digits in number plates or in recipes. Print out a times table square and keep a record of the tables your child knows well, so you know which ones you need to focus on. Whichever method you choose, there is never a truly pain-free answer because real #uency requires real practice over weeks and months. So take the challenge, make it happen, and enjoy it!

Health

8

The prevalence of Coeliac disease has increased "ve-fold overall since 1974. Yet testing for the condition has been plagued with di#culties and inaccuracies especially in

children. Nutritionist Christine Bailey who specialises in digestive disorders and allergies in children discusses new tests available and the signs and symptoms to look out for.

What is Coeliac Disease?

Coeliac Disease is an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten, which is found in certain foods (wheat, barley and rye). It is a life-long condition and requires the complete avoidance of all foods and drinks containing gluten.

If your child has the disease, eating gluten will cause a reaction in their bodies that damages or destroys the villi (small projections in the intestines that help us absorb nutrients). When this occurs, the surface of the small intestine is #attened and a child’s body can’t absorb vitamins and nutrients from food.

Diagnosing Coeliac Disease For children it can be particularly di$cult to diagnose. Classic blood tests are accurate only when the villi are severely damaged and in children this may not have occurred. However, if left undiagnosed, it can lead to development of other autoimmune conditions as well as a"ecting the growth and development and overall health later in life.

If there is a family history of autoimmune conditions and/or Coeliac Disease then it is recommended you get your child tested. Until recently this would involve a standard blood test from the GP to look for a range of antibodies. If positive, an intestinal biopsy is often performed. The trouble is these are not particularly accurate and blood tests can be distressing for children.

Advances in testing There are new private laboratory tests involving saliva collection. This is not only sensitive and accurate but also easier to undertake for young children. There are also more comprehensive blood tests, which are available privately for older children. Ask your GP or quali!ed nutritionist for the most appropriate tests for your family. Seek nutritional adviceIf your child is diagnosed with Coeliac Disease it is important they receive nutritional advice to help with planning a gluten free diet, ensuring they are optimally nourished and also to ensure their gut heals. In many cases nutritional supplements will be recommended. While there are obvious sources of gluten (such as breads, pastas, #ours, cereals, cakes and biscuits) it is often used as an ingredient in many favourite foods such as !sh !ngers, sausages, gravies, sauces and soy sauce. Working with a quali!ed nutritionist can help you plan a healthy gluten free diet.

Because symptoms in children are often subtle and mimic other intestinal diseases, like Irritable Bowel Syndrome or lactose intolerance, the disease is often di$cult to diagnose. Some children experience symptoms the !rst time they are exposed to gluten, while others develop symptoms later in life.

Signs and Symptoms

Gluten Sensitivity and Coeliac Disease – is your child affected?

T Y P I C A L S Y M P T O M SThese can begin during infancy (between 6 and 24 months), after the child begins to eat gluten-containing foods. Diarrhoea and/or constipation Abdominal pain Poor appetite A bloated or painful belly, gas, #atulence Weight loss or di$culty gaining weight

ADDITIONAL SYMPTOMS

(which may develop later) include:

Slowed growth, failure to thrive

Iron de!ciency anaemia, fatigue,

low energy

Skin rash (dermatitis herpetiformis)

Tooth enamel changes

Bone thinning

Joint aches and pains

Headaches

Mouth ulcers

Mood changes, depression

Delay in menstruation


Christine Bailey - information about testing, nutritional support, cookery days and recipes www.advancenutrition.co.ukCoeliac UK: www.coeliac.org.ukGluten Free Direct: www.glutenfree-direct.co.ukNutritionists in Gloucestershire:Marianne Andrews - www.cotswoldnutrition.com, email: [email protected] Sally Whitman - www.blackberrynutrition.co.uk, email: [email protected]

Both Marianne and Sally work at the Cheltenham Holistic Health Centre, Camargue House, 32 Wellington Road, Cheltenham, GL52 2AG. Tel: 01242 584140 or visit www.chhc.co.uk Email: [email protected]

Mary Sharma, Nutrition and Allergy TherapistStroud Natural Health Clinic, Withey’s Yard, High Street, Stroud GL5 1AS 01453 750796 or visit www.snhc.co.uk

If you would like share gluten free recipe ideas, restaurant recommendations or your experience of Coeliac disease with other Families Gloucestershire readers, please visit our Facebook page at facebook.com/familiesglos or email [email protected]

9www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk March/April 2013

Emma was struck with sudden stomach pain towards the end of 2011 and it was almost a year to the day that we !nally got a diagnosis of Coeliac disease. Out of the blue she began to get severe stomach pain, her heartbeat was raised, she was clammy and showed all the outward appearance of having a panic attack. The pain was bad enough to make her scream but the episodes only lasted for around 10 -15 minutes when she would return to normal. After we’d had around three or four similar episodes, and visited the out of hours doctor - once we dashed there so severe was the pain, I became convinced she had appendicitis but nothing pointed towards that being the cause.

Soon Emma was given medicine to quell what was thought to be acid re#ux, !rst Gaviscon and then Renitadine which seemed to do the trick. We had no indication that Emma might have coeliac disease at this point because, believe it or not, her symptoms were so mild! Often there is diarrhoea, a lack of energy and poor growth but Emma was growing well and nothing gave the doctors at York Hospital cause to think it was anything other than ‘undiagnosed stomach pain’, very common in children.

At a routine hospital visit in October we !rst heard mention of Coeliac Disease although it was suggested more as something to eliminate from the list of potential causes rather than believing it was likely. Scans showed everything was normal, despite me beginning to fear the very worst. Finally a blood test, which was quite traumatic in itself, revealed Emma had antibodies in her blood which suggested Coeliac disease and that a biopsy would be needed.

We were told that once the biopsy had been done we’d know immediately if Emma had Coeliac disease. The tests revealed her villi in her stomach were smooth which meant they weren’t absorbing the goodness from her food. It was hard to process the information as Emma was still coming round from the anaesthetic but such a

relief that we didn’t have to wait a minute longer to !nd out.

From then on it’s all been a bit of a whirlwind. We left with some dietary information but I spent a couple of weeks feeling shell-shocked.

We keep Emma’s food away from the rest of the family’s food and she has her own toaster, board and preparation area to avoid cross-contamination. The !rst meal I served up went wrong because I contaminated it by mixing up serving spoons but I’m now used to serving her food !rst and taking extra care.

Food labelling isn’t as good as it could be but I take my Coeliac Society Food & Drink ‘Bible’ shopping with me and I have been known to Facebook a coeliac-related question in the middle of Tesco! That !rst trip shopping took three hours but it’s getting easier. We have some foods on prescription such as bread, pasta and pizza bases where Emma can have a set number of units a month because coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition, not an allergy. We have a lovely hamper of treats from Gluten Free Direct for Emma to try out too.

Eating out is something we’re still learning to deal with. Pizza Hut and Gira"e were so helpful despite my bursting into tears

at the frustration of it all and the realisation that this is not just a passing phase but is for the whole of Emma’s life. But luckily for her we’ve found out what’s wrong and we’re addressing it - and she’s SO much better.

We’ve had only one attack since her diagnosis and Emma now tells me her tummy feels ‘happy’ now!

Emma’s story

Liz and

Coeliac disease can take a long time to diagnose as Liz Hutchison found out when her eight year old daughter Emma began to complain of stomach pains.

Health

Useful Contacts

Bumps and Babes


Turtle Tums is an aqua-natal yoga course that provides mums-to-be with a great way of exercising within the controlled and supportive environment of water.

Aqua-Yoga has numerous physical and emotional bene!ts. You will learn water adapted yoga moves and breathing that will help you throughout your pregnancy, during labour and beyond promoting #exibility and relaxation.

During the course techniques are taught

to use with your baby once they are born, ensuring you are con!dent in the water with your baby once they have entered the world!

Once you have enjoyed the bene!ts of Turtle Tums you and your baby will be able to continue your journey with Turtle Tots baby swimming classes! For more information contact Suzy Billing on 07854 353315 or email her at [email protected]

Our children are our future and the future of our world, and nothing is more important than their health. As parents we want to assist our children towards creative and ful!lled lives, and caring for their health in their early years is a great gift we can give them. Natural treatments are especially important for children and teenagers – their immune systems and hormonal systems are developing, and are very sensitive – and they are going through rapid emotional and physical growth.

Therapists at Stroud Natural Health Clinic have got together and launched Bumps Babies and Beyond, a children’s and family clinic. Practitioners passionate about the health of young people can provide many varied ways to boost natural health.

Most children, whatever their problem, can be treated by natural methods (there are fourteen options available). Guided by your wishes, the children’s and family clinic aim to provide you with e"ective ways of keeping your children happy and healthy.

They can provide after school or late appointments, toys, baby changing facilities and child-friendly receptionists!

For more information you can call Stroud Natural Health Clinic on 01453 750796 and visit www.snhc.co.uk

Turtle Tums Aqua-Yoga Classes come to Gloucestershire!

Stroud Natural Health Clinic launch new clinic for Children and Families

“You are the bows from which your children as living arrows are

sent forth.”Kahlil Gibran The Prophet

Childcare in Britain costs more than childcare almost anywhere else in

the world – according to recent "gures, 27% of the income of families with young children is spent on the costs of a nanny, a childminder or a nursery. Everyone agrees it would be better if childcare was more a!ordable – especially for parents with two or more children, many of whom say it doesn’t make "nancial sense for them both to be at work. How can childcare be made cheaper without compromising on quality? That’s the question everyone, from government ministers to childcare providers are grappling with at the moment. You can read the full article

‘How Childcare is Changing’ which explores the government’s recent announcement on childcare at www.familiesgloucestershire.co.ukIn the short term, here are a few ideas we’ve come up with at Families:Change your working hours: as a parent with a child under 16, you’re entitled to request #exible working hours from your employer, provided you’ve worked there for more than six months. You could ask to !t your work into fewer days that are longer – then your partner could collect your child or children from your carer on the days you’re working, and you can cut childcare bills.

If you work part-time and use a nursery, check out whether the fees are lower on certain days of the week (they sometimes are) and see if you can switch the days you work.Team up with a friend who’s also working part-time and has a child of a similar age. So you look after her child with yours while she’s working, and vice versa.When you’re choosing a childminder, check whether they can access the free 15 hours’ childcare a week that all three and four-year-olds are entitled to – not all childminders can do this, and it can be worth up to £180 for 38 weeks of the year.

IdeasCUT your childcare coststo

By Joanna Moorhead

Food


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Easter with…

Easter is all about the egg, but who said it has to be the chocolate

variety? The humble egg is packed full of vitamin goodness and is a great source of protein. Eggs are one of the best-known sources of vitamin D, which is important for strong bones, especially when your children are growing. Get creative with eggs this EasterFlu"y twice-baked cheese sou&é? Not as scary as it sounds and very impressive. Make a roux or white sauce using butter, #our and warm milk #avoured with nutmeg and onion, until you get a smooth sauce. Stir in some English mustard, goat’s cheese and egg yolks.Fold through some whisked egg whites. Spoon the mix into greased ramekins, place in a deep baking tray and half !ll with water, and bake until set. Once cool remove from the ramekins, sprinkle with more cheese and bake again until golden.

TIPS * If you aren’t a fan of goats cheese, simply replace with a cheese of your choice, such as Abbey Farms delicious mature cheddar or Jonathan Crump’s single and double Gloucester. * If you are brave enough to try this recipe, you will !nd yourself left with spare egg yolks – don’t throw them away! These can be used to make a delicious garlicky aioli, or even a quick custard, which you can serve with a lovely seasonal rhubarb crumble.

Family fun in the kitchenEaster is also a great time to get in the kitchen with the family during the holiday break. Baking and Easter go hand-in-hand for me, Simnel cake, hot cross buns, and my children’s favourite, Easter biscuits. Make a basic biscuit dough using sugar, butter, eggs and #our, mix in cinnamon, mixed spice, currants and mixed peel for a delicious but easy bake. It’s a good way for children to practice weighing and measuring, and fun to roll out too. Get some rabbit shaped cookie cutters and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly browned. These biscuits taste great, but make great gifts too and will keep your children busy for a whole afternoon!

And something chocolatey….If you can’t let Easter pass by without just a little bit of chocolate, why not try making your own hot, chocolaty drink. In South America they traditionally #avour their hot chocolate, commonly using spices such as cinnamon, chilli and cloves. I’m not so sure about the cloves, but the cinnamon and chilli really liven up the drink. Melt some good quality chocolate in a bowl over a pan of boiling water. Once melted, keep on the heat and slowly whisk in some warmed milk. Once the milk is incorporated, add half a teaspoon of cinnamon, a pinch of nutmeg and the same of chilli powder. You’ll be left with an incredibly rich, aromatic hot chocolate with extra warmth from the chilli. Totally decadent and totally satisfying. For the full recipes of the dishes included in this article please visit www.familiesgloucestershire.co.ukwww.twitter.com/thecotswoldchef

The Cotswold ChefThe Cotswold Chef

Easter

March/April 2013 www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk 12

SPRING ON THE FARMFarm Day Camp brings children aged 8 – 11 to Abbey Home Farm over the Easter holidays.Spring is a great time on the farm. Those !rst few warm days (hopefully!) can be enough to inspire the grower in all of us.

The renewal of life that comes with the increasing temperatures makes Easter a great time to get outside exploring the changes in nature, visiting the newest arrivals on the farm (like our calves!) and sowing the seeds which will provide us with food for the next year.

Over the Easter Farm Day Camps, children will get involved in fun and practical land-based activities such as making compost, planting a pollinator garden, and helping to feed the cows. And most importantly, we will prepare and eat delicious, local, organic meals ensuring that children make the vital connection between farm and fork. Farm Day camp will be running:27th – 29th March 2013 and 3rd – 5th April 2013Pre-booking essential as places are limited.For more information and to book visit www.theorganicfarmshop.co.uk/education or call Hope Thornton on 01285 640 353

FUN WHATEVER THE WEATHERDick Whittington Farm parkA farm park full of interesting animals, fascinating wildlife and exciting activities! Visit the pets corner and help my farm hands feed the animals or, if you like running around, check out the indoor or outdoor play areas. Great family fun – whatever the weather! For more information and opening times visit www.dickwhittington.org or call 01452 831000

BOOK RELATED FUN

Grand Opening of The Gru!alo’s Child Woodland Trail at the Dean Heritage Centre 29th March - 1st April

Visitors will be able to meet the o$cial Gru"alo character at the opening weekend and see the spectacular woodland trail based on the UK’s best loved children’s book. The trail will then continue until March 2014.

For more information and opening times visit www.deanheritagecentre.com or call 01594 822170

FUN AT THE THEATREWin!! Four tickets to see The Elephant Bridesmaid at The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury on Wednesday 27th MarchThere are no elephants in Australia. Well, no elephants except this one... Written especially for parents to enjoy with their children, The Elephant Bridesmaid is a magical musical about weddings and wombats and the loveliest elephant the world has ever known. Join Nessie the Elephant and her fantastic animal friends and help them as they go in search of an out!t fancy enough (and large enough) to make her the Australian jungle’s !rst and most beautiful Elephant Bridesmaid. Make your day even more special by coming to the theatre in your own fancy clothes (or fancy dress) for the chance to take part in a fabulous fashion show live on stage with the actors. Wednesday 27 March 2.30pmAll tickets: £8, Family of four: £28To enter this competition simply go to www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk/competitionClosing date Monday 18th March 2013

HOLIDAY KIDS CAMPSCamp 4 2 11

Family-run camps open during the Easter & Summer holidays, o"ering a creative alternative to sports-based camps. They run exciting themed weeks, workshops and a schedule including swimming, arts and craft, musical theatre, break dancing, zumba, gymnastics, go-karting, bouncy castles and more.Con!rmed NEW activities for Easter included a visit from The Cotswold Farm Park & Bush Craft for children. There will also be a Giant Easter Egg Hunt!Camp is based within the beautiful grounds of St Edward’s Junior School on the London Road, Cheltenham from 8.45am to 4.00pm but early drops o" and late pick ups are available. Prices start at £25 per day.

For more information visit www.camp4211.co.uk , call 07825 630 751 or email [email protected]

Easter


&DPSVCamp 4 2 11 St Edward’s Junior School, Cheltenham. A well established holiday club for kids which provides a great alternative to sport focused camps.07825 630751 www.camp4211.co.uk

Farm Camps at Abbey Home Farm Cirencester. Day camp for children aged 8 – 11 yrs. 27th – 29th March & 3rd – 5th April 2013 01285 640 353 www.theorganicfarmshop.co.uk/education

Just Camps All Saints Academy, Cheltenham 07716 926 147 www.justcamps.co.uk SuperCamps Sir Thomas Rich’s School, Longlevens 01235 832222 www.supercamps.co.uk

&OLPELQJGo Ape! High Wire Adventure Forest of Dean 0845 6439215 www.goape.co.uk/sites/forest-of-dean The Warehouse Climbing Centre Gloucester. Tel: 01452 302351 www.the-warehouse.co.uk

&\FOLQJDean Forest Cycles Forest of Dean 01594 368009 www.deanforestcycles.co.uk Pedalabikeaway Cycle Centre Forest of Dean 01594 860065 www.pedalabikeaway.co.uk

+HULWDJH�$WWUDFWLRQVBerkeley Castle. Berkeley 01453 810332 www.berkeley-castle.com Chedworth Roman Villa Nr Cheltenham01242 890256 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chedworth-roman-villaGloucester Cathedral Gloucester01452 528095 www.gloucestercathedral.org.uk Sudeley Castle. Winchcombe 01242 604244 www.sudeleycastle.co.uk National Trust www.nationaltrust.org.uk

+RUVHULGLQJDurham’s Farm Riding School Moreton in Marsh 01608 629408 www.cotswoldriding.com Playmate Riding School Nr Cheltenham 01242 680888 www.kidsriding.comThe Camp Riding Centre Stroud 01285 821219 www.ridingschoolgloucestershire.co.uk Tumpy Green Equestrian Centre Nr Dursley 01453 899002 www.tumpygreenequestriancentre.co.uk

0XVHXPVCorinium Museum Cirencester 01285 655 611

www.coriniummuseum.cotswold.gov.uk. Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection Bourton on the Water 01451 821255 www.cotswold-motor-museum.co.uk Dean Heritage Museum Trust Soudley 01594 822170 www.deanheritagecentre.com Gloucester City Museum & Art Gallery 01452 396131 www.gloucester.gov.uk/citymuseum Gloucester Folk Museum 01452 396868 www.gloucester.gov.uk/folkmuseum Jenner Museum Berkeley01453 810 631 www.jennermuseum.com John Moore Countryside Museum Tewkesbury 01684 297174 www.johnmooremuseum.org National Waterways Museum Gloucester 01452 318200 www.gloucesterwaterwaysmuseum.org.uk Tetbury Police Museum Tetbury 01666 504670 www.visittetbury.co.uk/police-museum Tewkesbury Museum Tewkesbury01684 292901 www.tewkesburymuseum.org The Museum in the Park Stroud01453 763394 www.museuminthepark.org.uk Welllington Aviation Museum Moreton in Marsh 01608 650323 www.wellingtonaviation.org World of Mechanical Music Museum Northleach 01451 860181 www.mechanicalmusic.co.uk

5DLOZD\�$WWUDFWLRQVGloucestershire Warwickshire Railway Cheltenham 01242 621405 www.gwsr.com Dean Forest Railway Forest of Dean 01594 845840 www.deanforestrailway.co.uk Perrygrove Railway and Treetop Adventure Forest of Dean 01594 834991 www.perrygrove.co.uk

6RIW�3OD\Cattle Country Adventure Park Berkeley 01453 810510 www.cattlecountry.co.uk

Dick Whittington Farm Park Longhope 01452 831000 www.dickwhittington.org

Go Bananas Stroud 01453 769120 www.gobananas.org.uk Jungle Chums Milbury Heath, South Gloucestershire07769 664510 www.junglechums.co.uk Magicland Cirencester 01285 885570 www.magicland.co.uk Fri 29th March 10am – 6pm Easter Eggstravaganza Funday with facepainting, magic shows, colouring competitions and much more.The Playfarm Cheltenham 01242 257955 www.playfarm.co.uk

6SRUWV�2XWGRRU�DFWLYLWLHVBattleSports Glos – Forest of Dean Outdoor Laser Combat played on a Multi-acre battle!eld in the Forest of Dean. Suitable for all ages 7 and above, just like paintball but without the bruises! 01452 830620 www.battlesportsglos.comBugsboarding Maisemore, Gloucester. Open from 31st March 2013 07749 897330 www.bugsboarding.co.uk Croft Farm Waterpark Tewkesbury 01684 772321 www.croftfarmleisure.co.uk Forest Bushcraft Forest of Dean 01594 835 116 www.forest-bushcraft.co.uk GL1 Leisure Centre Gloucester 0845 643 4203 www.gl1.org.uk

Gloucester Ski and Snowboard Centre 01452 501438 www.gloucesterski.comLeisure @ Cheltenham 01242 528764 www.leisureatcheltenhamPlay Gloucestershire Play Rangers Gloucestershire 01452 505548 www.playgloucestershire.org.ukThe Sports Club Cotswold District Council www.cotswold.gov.uk (leisure&culture) Way2Go Adventures Forest of Dean 01594 800908 www.way2goadventures.co.uk

:DONLQJ�DQG�([SORULQJBatsford Arboreturm and Wild Garden Moreton in Marsh 01386 701441 www.batsarb.co.uk Beechenhurst Forest of Dean www.visitforestofdean.co.uk Clearwell Caves Coleford, Forest of Dean 01594 832535 www.clearwellcaves.com Cotswold Country Park & Beach Cirencester 01285 868096 www.cotswoldcountrypark.co.ukCotswold Water Park Cirencester 01793 752413 www.waterpark.org Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust 01452 383 333 www.gloucestershirewildlifetrust.co.uk Puzzlewood Coleford, Forest of Dean 01594 833187 www.puzzlewood.net Treasure Trails Family friendly trails throughout Gloucestershire www.treasuretrails.co.uk/gloucestershire/things- to-do.html Westonbirt Arboretum Tetbury 01666 880220 www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt

:LOGOLIH�$WWUDFWLRQVBirdland Park and Gardens Bourton on the Water 01451 820480 www.birdland.co.uk Bristol Zoo and Gardens Bristol 0117 974 7399 www.bristolzoo.org.ukCotswold Falconry Centre Moreton in Marsh 01386 701043 www.cotswold-falconry.co.ukCotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens Burford 01993 823006 www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.ukRSPB Nagshead Nature Reserve Lydney 01594 562852 www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/n/nagshead/ Severnwye Llama and Camel Trek Tewkesbury 07929 372933 www.severnwyellamatrekking.co.uk WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre Slimbridge 01453 891900 wwt.org.uk/slimbridge

YogaTatty Bumpkin. Various locations in Cheltenham. For details of Tatty’s Easter adventures visit www.tattybumpkin.com/cheltenham or call Andrea on 0845 6801769

We have done everything we can to ensure these details are correct but please do check direct with each organisation for further information, including prices and opening times.

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Easter


(DVWHU�(JJ�+XQWVEASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA FAMILY DAY

1st April. 1pm – 4pm. Leckhampton Court Hospice, Church Road, GL53 0QJ

Afternoon of family fun with Easter egg hunt, Easter bonnet competition, stalls, games, refreshments and much more. All proceeds to Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice. Admission £2 on the door.

WESTONBIRT ARBORETUMTetbury, Glos, GL8 8QS 01666 880220 www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt

26 – 29 March. Easter ChallengeThe Easter Challenge activities will include a family trail and craft activities.

COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARKBradwell Grove, Burford, Oxfordshire OX18 4JP01993 823006 www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk

29 March – 1 April Easter Egg HuntWin a little chocolate egg and see Bird of Prey #ying displays from Cotswold Falconry

CORINIUM MUSEUMPark Street, Cirencester, Gloucestershire GL7 2BX 01285 655611 www.coriniummuseum.cotswold.gov.uk

23 March – 7 April. Easter Holiday TrailJoin in the fun and follow one of our family trails around the museum. Cost: £1 per trail (includes a prize).

DYRHAM PARKDyrham, near Bath, SN14 8ER (Sat Nav: SN14 8HY) 0117 937 2501 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dyrham-park

31st March and 1st April. ‘Eggciting’ Easter Trail.Explore the parkland with an “eggciting” Easter trail. £2 per trail.

NEWARK PARKOzleworth, Wotton-under-Edge, GL12 7PZ 01793 817666 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/newark-park

29 March – 1 April. Easter TrailVisit Newark Park and hunt the Easter clues.

SLIMBRIDGE WETLAND CENTREBowditch, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT 01453 890 333 www.wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge

29 March – 1 April. Great Easter Egg HuntTake part in the great Easter hunt through the grounds where you will !nd a host of cute characters.

Ever daydreamed about discussing water features with Charlie Dimmock? Or wished you could ask Tommy Walsh’s advice on how to ‘eco’ your house?

Well, Gloucester Quays and Families Gloucestershire have teamed up to give one lucky reader and friend the opportunity to do just that, as VIP visitors to the popular Home and Garden Party returning to Gloucester Quays this Easter weekend. The VIP package will include VIP seats to the celebrity demonstrations plus one-on-one time with the celebrity appearing on the day you choose to attend, giving you an opportunity to pose your questions, plus time for photos and autographs. You will also receive free car parking for the whole day so you can enjoy all the festival has to o"er.The festival is FREE and full of home furnishing ideas, designer makeovers, gardening features and DIY -made -easy workshops. There will also be a host of stalls to browse ranging from fashion, gardening and local produce to the work of unique, bespoke designers and artists.For a small ticket price, visit the special Celebrity Stage to hear popular gardener Charlie Dimmock and DIY expert Tommy Walsh on Saturday 3oth March; The #amboyant Laurence Llewellyn-Bowen on Easter Sunday and Garderner’s World favourite Carol Klein and Home under the Hammer’s Martin Roberts on Monday 1st April.With live music in the beautiful setting of the docks and plenty of activities to keep your children entertained, it is a fun day out for the whole family.To enter this competition simply go to www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk/competitionClosing date Monday 18th March 2013

WIN! VIP tickets to the Gloucester Quays Home and Garden Party

:KDW¥V�2QPlease always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press or we got it wrong.

AT-BRISTOLAnchor Road, Bristol BS1 5DB0845 345 1235 www.at-bristol.org.uk8 March. Toddler Takeover: Super Senses!A fun-!lled day just for the under !ves! 17 – 18 Jan. Toddler 11 – 15 March. Brilliant brain weekDrop-in activities all about your brilliant brain!23 – 24 March. Meet Bob the BuilderPersonal appearances at intervals over both daysFrom 23 March. New exhibit launch – Build It!Interactive construction site for the under 8’s.

BRISTOL ZOO GARDENSClifton, Bristol BS8 3HA0117 974 7300 www.bristolzoo.org.ukFrom 23 March. DinoZoo2 Dinosaurs are back by popular demand at Bristol Zoo Gardens this summer

COTSWOLD FARM PARKBemborough Farm, Kineton, Gloucestershire GL54 5UG 01451 850 307 www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.ukLambing and kidding from the 9th Feb this year so don’t miss the !rst lambs of 2013!

GLOUCESTER QUAYSGloucester Quays, St Ann Way, Gloucester GL1 5SH 01452 338933 www.gloucesterquays.co.uk30 March – 1 April. The Gloucester Quays Homes and Garden Party. Lots of stalls, demos, music and entertainment make this an event not to miss out for tips inside and outside the home! FREE ENTRY

13 – 14 April. Gloucester Quays Grand PrixAll the buzz and adrenaline of the Grand Prix - with remote control cars! See the UK’s top drivers compete for fast, furious action. FREE ENTRY!

PRINKNASH BIRD AND DEER PARKPrinknash Road, Matson, Gloucester GL4 8EU01452 812 727 www.thebirdpark.co.uk23, 24 and 27 March. The Mad Hatters Tea PartyA marquee festooned with fabulous Alice in Wonderland backdrops create a magical atmosphere. Facepainting included. Booking essential. Tickets £10 per child and include entry to the park.SLIMBRIDGE WETLAND CENTREBowditch, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT 01453 890 333wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge10 March. Mother’s DayEnjoy paper and craft activities with your family on this special day. Take a photo of you and your mum having fun at Slimbridge for a chance to win a wildlife themed goodie bag. Included in admission.23 March – 14 April. Easter Holidays – Art and PhotographyCelebrate a long history of art at Slimbridge with a series of activities for adults and children, including a trail of wetland inspired art and photography. Included in admission.

BEATRIX POTTER’S THE TAILOR OF GLOUCESTER MUSEUM & SHOP9 College Court, Gloucester GL1 2NJ01452 422 856 www.tailor-of-gloucester.org.ukA charming museum and quaint shop sta"ed by volunteers who are both enthusiastic and knowledgeable about Beatrix Potter and her works. Open Monday - Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday noon until 4pm.

CORINIUM MUSEUMPark Street, Cirencester, Gloucestershire GL7 2BX 01285 655611 www.coriniummuseum.cotswold.gov.uk

See ‘Easter Holiday Activities’ for more details

COTSWOLD MOTORING MUSEUM & TOY COLLECTIONThe Old Mill, Bourton-on-the-Water GL54 2BY 01451 821255 www.cotswoldmotoringmuseum.co.ukYou can visit TV’s Brum at his home and see where he was !lmed. The little super hero car, whose adventures start and end at the Museum, can be found at the Museum every day. The Cotswold Motoring Museum is open 10am- 6pm seven days a week from 10th February.

DEAN HERITAGE CENTRESoudley, Cinderford, Gloucestershire GL14 2UB 01594 822 170 www.deanheritagecentre.comSee ‘Easter Holiday Activities’ for more details

GLOUCESTER WATERWAYS MUSEUMLlanthony Warehouse, Gloucester GL1 2EH01452 318200 www.gloucesterwaterwaysmuseum.org.uk

MUSEUM IN THE PARKStratford Park, Stratford Road, Stroud GL5 4AF 01453 763394 www.museuminthepark.org.uk

10 March. Make a card for Mothers Day 11am – 3.30pm (drop-in). Family activity for children of all ages. £1 per child See ‘Easter Egg Hunts’ listings for more details

THE BACON THEATRE Dean Close School, Shelburne Road, Cheltenham GL51 6HE01242 258002 www.bacontheatre.co.uk

26 March. Family Film: The MuppetsCome along from 1.00pm in fancy dress for Easter activities, free face painting and a chance to meet real-life bunnies from Pets at Home. Then settle down in to watch this fun-!lled !lm at 2.00pm.

What’s On Mar/Apr 13

Theatre and Drama


Museums

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Carousel is a beautiful boutique

shop for babies and children. We

sell a carefully selected range

of pre-loved and gently worn

clothes from birth to early teens.

Please pop in to see our latest

collection or with any items

you’d like us to sell for you

(you receive 50% of the

sale price!)

Why not book a private shopping

evening, have a glass of !zz whilst

you browse with your friends and

also receive 10% discount!

www.carousel-clothing.co.uk

7 The Courtyard, Montpellier, Cheltenham GL50 1SR. Call: 07919 881 888 07868 556 382

Montpellier W

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Montpellier Spa RoadIm

perial Square

MontpellierWine Bar

Queens Lane

Fauconberg Road

WindsorHouse

Lansdown Road

TheCourtyard

Bayshill Lane

Bayshill Road

Ladies College

MapleHouse

MontpellierGardens Lodge

10%

discount with this advert


What’s On Mar/Apr 13

St Edward’s JuniorSchool Cheltenham

Wonderful facilities, excellent teaching in small classes forpupils that are confident, intellectually curious, caring and creative.

From ages 2 - 11, come and see how much we have to offer.

Contact 01242 538900 or www.stedwards.co.uk

THE EVERYMAN THEATRE7 - 10 Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ01242 512 515 www.everymantheatre.org.uk

12 – 16 March. Goodnight Mr TomMichelle Magorian’s wonderfully uplifting tale is brought gloriously to life in a brand new stage adaptation by David Wood.26 – 28 March. The Enormous TurnipThis production allows children to enter the world of Farmer Ted. Meet his family and friends and marvel at the array of vegetables that he grows. Suitable for children aged 3 – 7 years.29 March. Chris and PuiSee Chris & Pui from Show Me Show Me live on stage!

THE ROSES THEATRESun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX01684 295074 www.rosestheatre.org27 March. The Elephant Bridesmaid Songs, games and laughter for adults and children alike. Tickets £7 - £8

GLOUCESTERSHIRE REAL NAPPY PROJECTProviding parents and expectant parents with real nappy information.

6 March at NCT Waddlers and Toddlers, Charl-ton Kings Baptist Church 10.00am - 12.00pm12 March at BAPS, Hesters Way Children’s Centre. 10.00am - 12.00pm 21 March at CRIBS, St. John’s Church Hall,

Churchdown. 9.30am - 11.30am 21 March at GLOBES, Gardners Lane Children’s Centre. 12.30pm - 2.00pm 28 March at NCT Cheltenham Bumps and Babes, St. Andrew’s United Reformed Church. 10.00am - 12.00pm

MUM-TO-BE TIME27 March & 24 April. Andersons Co!ee House, Regent Street, CheltenhamNew, exclusive and intimate mornings designed to make mums-to-be feel even more ‘yummy mummy’. Enjoy tips and advice, demonstrations and taster treatments from three local experts in pampering, beauty, wellbeing and craft. Tickets £12.50 per person or £20 for two. For more information and to book visit www.jttevents.co.uk/whats-on-2 or call 07712 433978

NCT NEARLY NEW SALESAll Saints Academy, Blaisdon Way Cheltenham GL51 0WH6 April. Spring/Summer clothes. 10:30am – 12 midday4 May. Toys & equipment. 10:30am – 12 midday For more information visit www.nct.org.uk/branches/cheltenham/nearly-new-sales

DEAN HERITAGE CENTRESoudley, Cinderford, Gloucestershire, GL14 2UB 01594 822 170 www.deanheritagecentre.com29th March-1st April, Grand Opening of The

Gru!alo’s Child Woodland Trail. Visitors will be able to meet the o$cial Gru"alo character at the opening weekend and see the spectacular woodland trail based on the UK’s best loved children’s book. The trail will then continue until March 2014.

OCTAVIA’S BOOKSHOP24 Black Jack Street, Cirencester GL7 2AA 01285 650677 www.octaviasbookshop.co.uk

7th March, Casper Candlewacks author Ivan Brett will be visiting the store to celebrate World Book Day. 16th March, Author Lynne Armstrong-Hobbs signs copies of the Firwood Magic Garden series.13th April, Anna Wilson signs her new book The Smug Pug.

CHELTENHAM TOWN HALLImperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QA0844 576 2210

5th April, Michaela Strachan’s Really Wild Adventures. Adapted from her own book of children’s poetry, popular TV presenter Michaela Strachan will take families on a delightful journey through an alphabet jungle of animal rhymes.

EVERYMAN THEATRE12-16th March, Goodnight Mister Tom. Michelle Magorian’s tale is brought to life in a brand new stage adaptation by David Wood.25th-28th March, The Enormous Turnip. Performed in the Studio Theatre.www.bookeventsforchildren.co.uk

Book events for children

Dates for your Diary

Documents

Families Gloucestershire Issue 13 March - April 2013