Embed Size (px)
DESCRIPTION
Families Sussex Coast magazine Jan-Feb 2012
Citation preview
FREE
The really useful local magazine for families with children
2 Front cover: Penneys Autumn Winter 2011
January / February 2012 3
Welcome & Contents Families
Families Sussex Coast covers: Brighton, Hove, Eastbourne, Worthing, Lewes, Burgess Hill, Hassocks and everywhere in between.Next issue March/April 2012: Advertising and editorial deadline is 10 February 2012. You can contribute to Families Sussex Coast through advertising, editorial and our what’s on pages. Contact Families Sussex Coast:01273 881106 [email protected] Sussex Coast, PO Box 5189, Brighton BN50 9WN
What’s insideWith Christmas all gone and January still cold and dark, it’s time to snuggle up with new year resolutions of health and happiness in mind. We have some great health tips for you, as well as a feature on food, particularly how to save on feeding your family and some advice on how to be happy with your baby. And if you’re hankering after warmer climes then indulge in our travel feature and start dreaming of your perfect summer holiday.
Happy New Year from everyone at Families Sussex Coast.
Welcome...News and competitions 4-5Yummy mummy week, kids photography competition and WIN tickets to Modelworld 2012.
Feeding your family 6-7for £40 a week Top tips for grocery shopping
Me and my baby 8-9Support and activities for mums and babies.
Swaps and shares 10Swapsies for eco-consicence times
Winter blues 11Getting healthy naturally
All aboard for Summer 12Get planning for the holidays
Luca and May 13Making ice mobiles
What’s on 14-15Fireman Sam, ballet, Modelworld,Brighton Science Festival and the Royal Pavilion annual free day.Pavilion annual free day.Pavilion annual free day
Copyright: Families Sussex Coast, December 2011.
Data protection: If you send us your name and address in order to receive free samples or to enter a competition, we may supply your details to the company offering the samples or prizes. If you would prefer us NOT to do so, please state this clearly on your entry.
Disclaimer: We take care 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.
Families Group: Families Sussex Coast is part of a group established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All magazines in the Group are independently owned and operated under licence.
Printed by: Warners Midlands Plc, www.warners.co.ukPlease recycle your copy of Families Sussex Coast when you have fi nished with it.
4
Stage Studio are a Saturday theatre school for
ages 4-16 based in Brighton and they’re looking
for new members. You can learn drama, singing
and street dance taught by industry professionals,
with a performance at the end of term. The
classes don’t start until the 28th January so
there’s plenty of time to book a trial session that
is absolutely free. The sessions last two and half
hours are just £13 each and you can pay as you
go too, so there’s no waste when winter colds
take hold. Stage Studio has great teachers, offers
fantatic training and good fun. To book your place
contact 07907 477 135, info@stagestudio.
co.uk or visit co.uk or visit co.uk www.stagestudio.co.uk.
FREE trialat Stage Studio
Perform drama,
dance and singing
workshops have
announced their
most colourful and
lively theme yet,
the circus! Principal
Lucy Quick says,
“We are inviting
all local 4-8 year
olds to enter the big top with us this term to
discover the delights of the circus. Whether
building confi dence with the dashing lion tamer,
developing hand-to-eye co-ordination with the
duelling jugglers or discovering the magic of
mime, our experienced team of actors, singers
and dancers will be there to inspire as your
child gets swept up in the excitement of it all.
They’ll enjoy themselves so much that they
won’t notice how much they are improving their
communication, concentration and
co-ordination skills.”
Any interested 4-8 year old can attend a free
trial session. Classes run on Mondays in
Haywards Heath, Wednesdays in Ditchling
and Uckfi eld, Thursdays in Brighton, Fridays in
Lewes, Saturdays in Horsham and Hove
For more information please contact 0845 400
4000, [email protected] or visit
www.perform.org.uk.
Perform invites you to the greatest show on earth
If you’re an organised parent already thinking
ahead to Easter and summer holiday childcare,
booking your children into Super Camps can
cost less with their early booking rates.
Super Camps is one of the leading activity
camps in the UK, offering day long sports,
activities, arts and crafts at over 70 venues in
the UK. By booking before 1 March, you can
save up to £40 per week or up to £8 per day per
child, and even use childcare vouchers towards
the fees. Corporate discounts are available to
organisations whose staff are looking for
holiday childcare.
For more information, visit
www.supercamps.co.uk or call 01235 832222.
Super deals with SuperSuperS Campsuper Campsuper
OUTSTANDINGplaygroup
Brighton half marathonyouth races
Brighton half marathon one mile Youth Races
will be taking place once again on Sunday 19
February. The Youth Races are aimed at young
runners of all abilities who want to experience
crossing the big fi nish line and being part of
the buzz of Brighton Half Marathon race day.
The age groups for entrants are 8-10 years,
11-13 years and 14-16 years.
Every Youth Race runner gets chip timed and
receives a t-shirt as well as a goodie bag and
a medal at the fi nish line. There are also prizes
for the fastest boy and girl in each age group.
Entry closes on 3rd February 2012.
Visit www.brightonhalfmarathon.com. You
can also join the Facebook page
www.facebook.com/
BrightonHalfMarathon.
Dorothy Stringer
Playgroup in Brighton
has places available
for pre-school children
age 2-5 years. The
playgroup received
an ‘outstanding’
report from Ofsted in
March 2011 and is
described by parents as ‘one of Brighton’s best
kept secrets’. Children are cared for by qualifi ed
carers who are also mums themselves, there is
a great outdoor space and plenty of room for
messy play. Sarah, mum of Stevie said, ‘Stevie
loves his time at Stringer and can’t wait to go
every morning – he’s making friends with children
he’ll be at school with and wants to marry one of
the carers!’ Contact 01273 506981 or visit
www.dorothystringerplaygroup.co.uk.
National Yummy Mummy Week runs from 10-
18 March (Mother’s Day) and is a fundraising
campaign all about mums doing something
yummy to raise money for children and young
people with cancer. Mums can hold any type of
event from cake sales and coffee mornings to
dinner parties or pamper nights. All money raised
from their event will help the charity CLIC Sargent
and make a real difference to families affected by
childhood cancer.
To fi nd out more visit www.yummymummy.org.uk
or call 08451 206 658 for your fundraising pack.
Yummy Mummy fundraisingfundraisingYummy Mummy fundraisingYummy Mummy
A new report recently published by UK charity
MobileWise warns that children’s health is
being jeopardised by the failure of Government
and phone companies to respond to the
growing body of evidence linking mobile phone
use with health hazards.
The report, ‘Mobile phone health risks: the
case for action to protect children’ brings
together, for the fi rst time, more than 200
peer-reviewed studies from a range of research
institutions that link mobiles to serious health
problems. Endorsed by a number of eminent
doctors and scientists, the report highlights the
growing and substantial body of evidence of
these risks.
Find the report at www.familiesonline.co.uk/
EMRresourcepage and read simple tips to
protect your family at
www.familiesonline.co.uk/EMRsafety.
Protecting children from the health risks Protecting children from the health risks Protecting children
of mobile phonesof mobile phones
January /February 2012 5
News & competitions FamiliesWin tickets to Modelworld 2012
Modelworld will be
returning to the Brighton
Centre from 24 -26
February and we have
a family ticket for you to
win. Attractions will range
from a full size replica of
the Battle of Britain Spitfi re aircraft, a huge model
of Westminster Abbey built of LEGO, a living
“Tablau” to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the
launch (and sinking) of the RMS Titanic as well as
‘Have a Go’ workshops from Airfi x. Add to the mix
aircraft, dolls houses and circuses and you have a
fabulous day out for the whole family.
For your chance to win the family ticket answer this
question: How long ago did the Titanic sink?
Send your answer with your name, address and
telephone number to editor@familiessussexcoast.
co.uk or by post to Families Sussex Coast, PO Box co.uk or by post to Families Sussex Coast, PO Box co.uk
5189, Brighton BN50 9WN by 31st January.31st January.31st January
Modelworld 2012 runs at the Brighton Centre from
24-26 February. www.brightoncentre.co.uk.
*Terms and conditions: The family ticket is for 4 people. Tickets are
valid on 24, 25 or 26 February. No purchase necessary. Tickets are
non-exchangeable.
Children are often the subject of photography, but
in ‘Capture the Parents’, kids between four and
seven years old can take photos of their parents or
carers and enter them into a competition.
There will be three free drop-in workshops for
families where you can take photographs to be
printed out and shared at no cost. Cameras can
also be hired (for small deposit) to continue the
project at home. A panel of judges will choose
pictures that most effectively show aspects
of parents’ characters and lives. Great prizes,
including family days out and children’s cameras
to be won.
Entries can be received until 17 February 2012
and will culminate in an exhibition to launch the
Children’s Festival at The Dome in April 2012.
The project is being run by Livestock, creators of
the Mothers Uncovered project and incorporates
Connected Families, which has been funded by
The Big Lottery Fund. For more details and how to
enter visit www.livestock.org.uk.
Say you saw it in
CAPTURE the parentsphotography competition for children
Kids, run a mile on MARATHON DAY
Entries for The Grand Hotel
Mini Mile Races on 15th
April 2012 are now open.
The races are for 7-17 year
olds giving youngsters a
fantastic opportunity to
capture the atmosphere of
the mass participation race. To fi nd out more visit
www.brightonmarathon.co.uk/minimile.
5 Never shop on an empty stomach. If you do, you just know
you’ll end up at the checkout with a trolley brimming with cake, 5 you’ll end up at the checkout with a trolley brimming with cake, 5crisps, and chocolate - and a huge grocery bill to boot. Instead, if you are
feeling peckish before hitting the shops, have a banana or a quick snack.
It could save you a lot of money.
6 Don’t use a basket for small shops. If you pop in the
supermarket mid-week to top up on fruit or milk, yet come out with 6 supermarket mid-week to top up on fruit or milk, yet come out with 6a £30 bill each time, try not using a basket. Chances are you’ll just buy
what you went in for.
7 Buy Seasonally. If we want strawberries all year round, we can
have them, but they will cost more out of season- both 7 have them, but they will cost more out of season- both 7environmentally and in our wallets. Not only that, but they don’t taste as
nice. Out of season, try buying frozen fruit and vegetables which will have
been frozen within hours of being harvested and before losing much of
their nutritional value.
8 Beware of BOGOF and buy 2, get 1 free deals. They’re great
if you will use double the amount, but you might fi nd it is still 8 if you will use double the amount, but you might fi nd it is still 8cheaper to buy an own brand product. Be particularly wary of deals
on perishable foods – just because you can buy two bags of pears for
the price of one doesn’t mean to say that you will want to eat them all.
Finally, many of the deals are offered on foods which are high in salt,
sugar and fat, so beware.
9 Taste test lower range products. We don’t mean suddenly
going from premium brands to the most basic products. But if you 9 going from premium brands to the most basic products. But if you 9give some of the middle range brands a try, the chances are you won’t
notice a difference. Look at the health data on the packaging too – some
lower range foods are actually healthier than the premium varieties.
10 Give the supermarket a miss sometimes. Try buying your
meat at your local butcher – you’re likely to be impressed by 10 meat at your local butcher – you’re likely to be impressed by 10the quality. Plus if you can buy exactly the quantity you want, saving
money and waste. Seasonal fruit and veg is often cheaper at your local market
or farmer’s market, and you could turn it into a trip out with the family.
Our menu plannerHere is the menu planner for the week and your shopping list. We’re
meat-eaters in our house but I’ve suggested some veggie options too.
We shopped at one of the cheaper supermarkets, but we did indulge in a
decent chicken and butcher’s sausages, and we saved on tinned salmon
for the fi shcakes and bought ‘value’ everything else. For breakfast we ate
cereal and toast and if you need to make kids packed lunches then you’ll
need to buy yoghurts, juices and more fruit, but you should fi nd our £40
target is still achievable as it’s balanced by less lunch produce.
6
Can you feed your family for £40?
1 Plan your meals. Start by writing a list of all the meals your family
likes. Then, each week, think about whether there will be any days 1 likes. Then, each week, think about whether there will be any days 1 when people will be away, when there will be guests, or when you’ll need
a quick meal. Look online at supermarket offers and build meals around
these ingredients. Plan a suitable meal for each day, ensuring that you
have a good balance of protein (eg meats, fi sh, pulses), carbohydrates
(eg potatoes, rice, pasta), and vegetables. Think about using up leftovers
(what about turning Sunday roast chicken into a risotto on Monday?).
See what needs using up in your freezer or fridge. And try to include an
interesting variety of tastes and textures.
2 Cook one main meal for the whole family. You can take out
portions for small children before adding salt and strong spices, 2 portions for small children before adding salt and strong spices, 2 and you’ll be getting them used to eating the same as the rest of the
family. You’ll also be saving on gas/electricity, not to mention your
precious time.
3 Batch cook. This saves both time and money, so must be good.
Next time you are making spaghetti bolognese, make at least twice 3 Next time you are making spaghetti bolognese, make at least twice 3 the amount and freeze what you don’t need immediately. That way, you
can take advantage of the frequent supermarket offers on multiple packs
of mince. And another day you’ll hardly need to cook.
4 Write a shopping list. Now you know what you’ll be cooking next
week, you can write down the ingredients you’ll need. Check the 4 week, you can write down the ingredients you’ll need. Check the 4 outer reaches of your store cupboard and freezer for items you already
have. Don’t be too frugal when drawing up your list, if it’s unrealistic,
chances are you’ll ignore it when you get to the shops and just pile treats
into your trolley.
Two years ago we ran a feature on how to feed your family for £40 a week. With food costs rising by 20% we thought it we’d see if we can still meet this challenge and with help from Menus4Mums, the online family meal planners, we’ve got some great tips to help get your grocery costs down.
January /February 2012 7
Food feature Families
Shopping listEggsBreadChickenCarrotsBrocolliCabbagePotatoesBread sauceCheeseTinned salmonBaked beansVegetable soupSuet
So did we do it?By our reckoning we were just under our target £40. I’m not sure whether
this would be achieveable every week but it certainly made us aware of
how much we can save by thinking our food through a little bit more.
Menus4Mums is an online family meal planning service for busy parents.
Members get a new meal plan each week for dinners the whole family will
enjoy, with recipe cards and a super-handy shopping list broken down
into supermarket aisles. The meals take advantage of supermarket special
offers to keep grocery bills down. Visit www.menus4mums.co.uk.
For tips and articles on family matters visit www.familiessussexcoast.co.uk
The really useful website for families living in Brighton, Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne,
Worthing, Burgess Hill and everywhere in between.
LunchScrambled eggs on toast
Chicken or cheese sandwiches
Salmon fi shcakes or goats cheese tart
Vegetable soupVegetable soup
Pilchards or egg on toast
Vegetable currVegetable curry and naan bread
Macaroni cheese
DinnerRoast chicken or nutroast with all the trimmings
Chicken or nutroast, bubble and squeak, baked beans
VeVegetable soup
Vegetable hotpot and Vegetable hotpot and dumplings
Vegetable currVegetable curry and rice
Macaroni Cheese
Sausage, mash and peas
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
RiceNaan breadMacaroniSausagesMilk CerealRibenaTeaOlive oilVinegarTomato ketchupChocolate digestivesFruit
The menu planner
8
n Drop-in centres, playgroups and baby groups offer vital postnatal
support and advice. Most importantly, they don’t cost more than a
pound or two.
Meet a mum and join a classWhether it’s a picnic in the park, a coffee at a local cafe or a mother-and-
baby group it’s important to get out there and meet other new mums. The
NCT arrange regular coffee mornings and local playgroups often arrange
get-togethers outside of the playgroup. You don’t have to ‘join’ these
groups or come every time, but you’ll be sure to get a warm welcome and
you will fi nd these meet-ups invaluable, I promise you. Alternatively, join a
class. This will give you an opportunity not only to meet other mums but
also to bond with your baby.
Baby massage and yogaMany local health services run free massage classes and there are plenty
of private classes around too, often including postnatal support alongside
baby massage. Baby massage has also been proven to help enormously
with mums suffering from postnatal depression. Baby yoga is also a great
way to encourage baby-parent interaction. A natural transition from baby
massage, it incorporates stretching, relaxation and yoga techniques,
enabling you and your baby to create a joyful interaction.
Activity classesThese don’t have to be expensive, so shop around. Choose from music
classes to drama to sensory stimulation classes to swimming – even for
newborns! It’s a great way to get out of the house and meet other
new mums.
Postnatal depressionPostnatal Depression (PND) is often not fully understood by mums who
experience it, yet one in three mothers will suffer from it. Becoming
a parent can be a shock and it is perfectly normal to feel emotional,
vulnerable and sensitive after your baby is born. Some mothers may
feel confused about their feelings - they feel they should be overjoyed
and instantly fall in love with their baby but this is not always the case,
especially if you’ve had a diffi cult labour or a traumatic delivery. Baby
blues typically occur between 3-5 days after the birth, and one theory is
that they coincide with the hormonal changes that occur as the breast
milk starts to come in. Another theory is that they are due to the ‘come
down’ after the effects of endorphins, or a sort of physical shock reaction
after the upheaval of birth. You may feel weepy, irritable, have a low mood
and feel that you lack confi dence in being able to look after your baby
but these feelings usually subside after a week or so. However, postnatal
depression is more serious and must be treated immediately. Symptoms
of PND can include:
n sleeping problems
n crying a lot
n not eating or over-eating
n physical pains such as headaches or stomach pains or blurred vision
n a lack of motivation to get up and do anything
n a constant sense of anxiety, sometimes escalating into panic attacks
n a feeling of being lonely or isolated
So, you’ve had a baby. You’re
a new mum and of course
you’re tired, but you’re also
elated and amazed at this
tiny new being that has
entered your life. You spend
every waking hour staring in
adoration at their tiny little toes
and gorgeous little mouth.
Your exhaustion doesn’t
matter as you drift from day to
day in a haze of milky delight.
Or maybe you don’t. If you are
like me then those fi rst few
weeks, even months of being
a new mum are the hardest
days of your life. Not only are
you exhausted after weeks
of unbroken sleep but you’re also struggling with breast feeding and getting
your baby to take a bottle, your baby is unsettled and suffers from refl ux
and why oh why won’t he just go to sleep? Even if it’s your second or third
baby, it’s still just as hard. You’ve got baby blues, or perhaps even post-natal
depression. Now the most important thing you can do, even if you don’t feel
like it, is to get out there, meet some other new mums and get some support.
Support groupsIf you’re tired, struggling to bond with or feed your baby or have a touch
of the baby blues, there are plenty of support networks out there.
n Health visitors are there for the welfare of babies and their parents,
and your health visitor should support you in whatever way they can.
They should get in touch with you in the fi rst few days of you returning
home from hospital, but if you don’t know how to reach your Health
Visitor your doctor’s surgery will be able to tell you.
n Home-Start is a charity that helps parents by providing volunteer
support. Whether you’re struggling to look after your baby or suffering
from postnatal illness or even just feeling lonely and isolated, Home-
Start can help. Volunteers offer regular support, friendship and
practical help to young families under stress in their own homes.
The visits are fl exible and you decide together what to do during that
time. Call 08000 68 63 68 for details of your local Home-Start.
n Children’s Centres (also called the SureStart programme) have been
developed throughout England to help parents, with many offering
support groups for new mums as well as stay and play sessions, baby
clubs, postnatal and breastfeeding classes. Find your nearest centre
at www.direct.gov.uk/en/Parents
n NCT runs Bumps, Babies and Beyond groups across the country,
where you can make friends and share experiences with other new
mums, and support is provided.
Me and my babyIt can be tough, but there’s help out there. Joanna Parry looks at support and activity choices for new mums and babies.
January /February 2012 9
Baby feature Familiesn having diffi culty concentrating
n feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope
n having no interest in sex
n feeling guilty about everything and wondering if you are a bad mother
n being overly protective of your baby
n feeling emotionally disconnected from your baby
n having frightening thoughts about harming yourself or your baby or
about bad things happening
If you feel any of the above, it is important to seek professional help. Your
GP may suggest antidepressant medication and/or counselling and your
health visitor will know about local postnatal depression support groups.
You can also go to www.apni.org or www.birthtraumaassociation.
org.uk for information, support and advice. org.uk for information, support and advice. org.uk
Treat yourselfIf you can, get a babysitter for an hour or two and treat yourself to some
quality ‘me’ time. Try a day spa for a pampering and revitalising treatment,
or many of the ‘Yummy Mummy’ clubs that are springing up across the
country offer spa treatments as well as a range of classes and support
groups for new mums, usually with crèches onsite.
Alternatively, take a walk in the park with a hot chocolate. It will do you the
world of good!
Helpful websiteswww.nct.co.uk
www.direct.gov.uk/en/Parents
www.nhs.uk
www.home-start.org.uk
Baby classes and activities near youAquakiddies/babiesBrighton and the surrounding areasThe original and best baby and toddler swimming company.01273 833101 www.aquababies-uk.com
Little DippersBrighton, Eastbourne, Isfi eld and Loxwood Lessons for babies in warm water pools.0844 4820222 www.littledippers.co.uk
MXT Swim SchoolBrighton, Hove, Steyning, Shoreham, Lancing, Storrington, Littlehampton, Worthing, HorshamSwim classes from 4 months to adults.01903 532765 www.mxtswimschool.com
The Little Swim SchoolBrighton and Hove Teaching preschool children water safety and swimming in warm private pools.01273 207992www.thelittleswimschool.co.uk
Caterpillar Music SussexFun baby and toddler music classes for 0-5 years. Puppets, instruments and much more with friendly faces. Classes in Worthing and parties throughout Sussex.01903 230810 www.caterpillarmusic.com
Music for Aardvarks and Other MammalsBrighton and HoveAn innovative music group with original music infl uenced by rock, indie and blues for 6 months and up. 07886 927081 www.uk-aardvarks.co.uk
Support for twins
www.twinsuk.co.uk
www.tamba.org.uk
Talking TotsBrighton, Hove and LewesFun, interactive classes that help your child communicate with confi dence.07827 697523 www.talkingtots.info
Buenos DiasBrighton and HoveFun Spanish classes for babies aged 6 months to 5 years. 01273 323431 www.buenosdias.co.uk
La CasitaBrighton and HoveSpanish-English childcare for babies aged 4 months to 5 years. 01273 323431 www.buenosdias.co.uk/lacasita.html
Sing and SignBrighton and HovePopular music classes from 6 months to 2 years encouraging communication in babies. Relaxed and fun, recommended by experts. 01273 540266 [email protected]
Bee-FitWorthingEvery Friday morning, fun fi tness including parachute play, games, singing and fun from 6 months to 4 years. 01903 241740 www.bee-fi t.co.uk
From the Seed Fiveways, BrightonHolistic care from conception to baby. Aromatherapy, workshops and baby massage. 01273 542358 www.fromtheseed.co.uk.
10
Share and Share Alike – borrow it, swap it, loan itWhere eBay leads, we follow, with sites dedicated to getting our
unwanted goods to people who can use them, either by selling them,
swapping or loaning them. For example, www.netcycler.co.uk allows
users to swap unwanted items: a recent visit saw a mobile phone
being swapped for a play set. Once you fi nd something you like the
look of, you offer your item in return, and if successful, either meet up
or post the items.
If you need a sledgehammer for a short building job, or a glamorous
dress for a wedding, you could be lucky and fi nd it at www.ecomodo.
com, which connects those who have with those who need. Registered
members can offer items for free or for a modest rental fee.
The fashion industry, which encourages us to think of what’s in season,
then to ditch it, is to blame for mountains of unworn clothes. Swishing,
www.swishing.com, is for the fashion-conscious swapper. Swishing
parties allow guests to swap their good quality clothes for ones brought
by other guests. Result: a girly good time and reduced fashion waste.
Local swishing dates are advertised on the site.
What’s mine is yours – temporarilyInstead of paying road tax and insurance, thousands of people now rent
cars for the hour, day or week, only when they need them. With www.
whipcar.com, members can rent out their cars (with insurance and
breakdown cover provided) whenever they don’t need them.
Somewhereto, www.somewhereto.com, is tailored to the needs of young
people from 16 to 25. What many need is a suitable space in which to
gain experience in their chosen fi eld, to perform in or to set up a group.
Somewhereto has regional advisers who help pair up young people with
companies, councils or individuals who can give them a site. Testimonials
include a budding fashion photographer who was given access to shoot
at London Fashion Week and a magician who got the chance to perform
in front of a live audience. Somewhereto even managed to get a group
into Number 10, although that seems to have been a one-off.
For further information, visit www.collaborativeconsumption.com.
No one enjoys being stuck in a recession, but having to rethink our
spending and how we consume and often waste goods does seem to
encourage innovative and highly effective alternatives to the ‘buy it, use it,
bin it’ routine.
A genuine social revolutionThe internet is home to a fl owering of new sites that exist to connect
people who have skills or unwanted items to share, exchange, barter or
loan out. Far from being merely an alternative, feel-good movement, this is
a genuine social revolution that is gaining momentum. Not only do people
who swap, lend and loan on a regular basis save and sometimes make
– money, they also connect socially with people they wouldn’t otherwise
have met, adding to a sense of community involvement. Finding that your
skill as a writer or hairdresser or gardener is genuinely valued and needed
by others is also a boost to your sense of self worth, something that can
often be lost in our everyday working lives.
Stop wasting, be real!The starting point for many collaborative consumption sites has been to
look at the accumulated stuff around us, from coffee machines to cars,
and to ask how much of it we really need and use. Rather than buy a new
item, let’s say a camp bed for occasional visitors, wouldn’t it be better to
borrow one from a friend or colleague? If your elderly neighbours can’t
manage to mow their lawn, but own a mower, why not do their mowing in
return for borrowing the machine to do your lawn with?
Common sense perhaps, but registering with one of the host of websites
dedicated to this way of living spreads the effectiveness of this new
economy and what we can all get out of it.
Swishing, www.swishing.com, is for the fashion-conscious swapper. Swishing parties allow guests to swap their good quality clothes for ones brought by other guests.
Anything I can do – sharing time, skills and spaceA key area of the new global marketplace is skills swaps, a particularly
appealing phenomenon if you are a parent. Your ability as, say, an
accountant, IT specialist or chef could come in very handy. Equally, you
might know someone who hates ironing, but would do dog walking in
return. Sites such as www.tradeurtrade.co.uk connect people who have
time rather than cash to offer. The international www.u-exchange.com
does the same – house painting for proofreading perhaps.
Along the same lines as skills sites are those that share assets such
as space or money. If you are one of the 100,000 people in the UK on
a waiting list to get an allotment, it might save time to hook up with
someone who has spare land of their own that you could use. The
nationwide Landshare scheme, www.landshare.net, puts people in touch
with anyone prepared to give them land to grow their own produce on.
Swaps and sharesA new economy is emerging to fi t these cash-drained, eco-conscious times. Swapping computer skills for fresh vegetables, renting out your car or lending an empty offi ce to a youth group are all ways of joining the new ‘what’s mine is yours’ society, reports Samantha Chippindale.
January /February 2012 11
Swaps and health Families
Don’t give in to comfort eating. Step away from the biscuit tin,
carbohydrates and “trans fats” (unsaturated fats). The last thing you
need right now is to put on weight, as this will only make you feel worse
about yourself. We all know this is tough this time of year but you will feel
great by not giving in and if you fancy a little treat why not try a seeded
fl apjacks, they’re packed full of healthy goodness.
Make sure you eat plenty of ethically caught oily fi sh, organic fruit and
vegetables and raw nuts and seeds. Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Yes, it’s a
tough one especially in the festive season but alcohol is a depressant so
really wont do you any good if you are looking to shake those winter blues.
Boost your immune system to prevent the common coldThe last thing you want to do is wind up sick in bed feeling even more
sorry for yourself. As they say, prevention is better than the cure so ward
off any illness before you have time to catch one of them. Echinacea is
brilliant at keeping out cold and fl u and can either be taken in pill form or
in tinctures, teas or directly eaten.
Sleep well
You should not underestimate the difference suffi cient sleep and a regular
sleep pattern will have on fi ghting winter blues. Try to go to bed and wake
up at the same time every day to establish a regular sleep pattern and
ensure you get seven to eight hours sleep a night.
If you struggle in getting to sleep try using organic lavender essential oil
as it is especially good at calming the nervous system, relaxing the body
and enabling blissful sleep. Try putting a bag of lavender under your pillow
at night or use it through a diffuser.
For some the winter months means a more serious condition Seasonal
Affective Disorder (SAD), which is thought to affect two million people in
the UK.
If you don’t think you can wait till our much-loved sun puts his hat back
on, then here are some great ways to naturally beat the winter blues
courtesy of the eco and natural marketplace www.EthicalCommunity.com.
Exercise and yoga
Physical exercise has been proven to combat depression (a university
study found that exercise was more effective at treating depression than
antidepressants). Exercise increases levels of endorphins in the body,
which are known to make us happy. You don’t have to do much exercise
either - just 30 minutes a day for adults, even if it is just getting outdoors
and going for a long walk.
Yoga is also fantastic for naturally lifting your mood as its deep breathing
techniques bring balance to the nervous system while the poses
themselves work to reduce stress hormones (like cortisol) and trigger
the release of your body’s natural feel-good chemicals (serotonin and
endorphins).
Winter depression makes us feel tired and sluggish and the last thing you
probably feel like doing is breaking out your running shoes or yoga mat,
but this is mental barrier you need to break through. Getting your heart
rate up will get rid of those winter blues in no time. Once you have a few
sessions behind you you’ll start to crave regular exercise and actually look
forward to it – honest!
Eat a healthy balanced diet
Eating healthy natural foods is important all year round, but in the winter
months it is particularly important. Your body requires certain nutrients to
function properly, fi ght off colds and illnesses and give you the energy you
need to fi ght depression in the gloomy months.
Shake off the winter bluesWith the dark nights and cold winter weather upon us, even the most positive of us sometimes suffer from a case of the ‘winter blues’, which is characterised by low energy levels, short temper, vanishing motivation and mild depression.
12
Hideaway in Robin Hood’s forestWhat child wouldn’t be excited to be holidaying in the centre of the wood
made famous by the legendary Robin Hood? Forest Holidays have new
lodges, which open this spring, set in the middle of 3,300 acres of forest,
and include basic cabins to de luxe ‘golden oak plus’ cabins with their
own hot tub. Loads to do for all ages – Sherwood Forest has a glorious
labyrinth of cycle trails, farm parks, arts and craft centres and play areas.
Perfect for: active families in search of a change from Center Parcs (and
more of a bargain).
Midsummer prices: From around £30 per person per night
www.forestholidays.co.uk
Camping meets boutique hotelMolly Dishwasher isn’t just an
unusual name for a holiday
experience – it’s an unusual
experience, too. You stay
in a shepherd’s hut nestled
among acres of meadows
and woodland in deepest
Sussex. A comfy double
for you, bunk beds for the
children, all squeezed into
a small but beautiful space with oodles of special little touches. Young
children adore staying somewhere different, and they love pulling their
parents into their adventures – which is what makes Molly Dishwasher
such a hit. Plus breakfast included, a BBQ and food on hand, and loads
of places to explore in the area including Drusilla’s Zoo, Battle Abbey,
Hever Castle and endless beaches.
Perfect for: families with small children who want a pint-sized adventure
without having to travel too far.
Midsummer prices: Around £20 per person per night
www.mollydishwasher.com
Wish you were here?Families editors on their favourite holidays...
Going to Amsterdam last summer was a brilliant holiday for our teenagers.
Amsterdam seems to have something for everyone: we tried cycling, the
Van Gogh Museum, we had a ride on a canal boat, and we went round
the Resistance Museum. Going to the Anne Frank house was a real
highlight – both our children had read her diary in Year 7, so they already
knew her story and it was very moving for all of us to see where she lived.
Roma Reeves, Editor, Families West London
When my children were little we stayed in mobile homes on campsites.
One of them, Bella Italia in the Italian Lakes (www.camping-bellaitalia.it)
was so wonderful that we even went back a second time, and that’s
the only time we’ve ever done that. It had great restaurants, really good
supermarkets and the swimming pools were lovely.
Shelley Cooper, Editor Families Herts
Affordable luxury – and abroad tooGlamping is the way to go: much
more reasonable prices than villas or
hotels, and a wide range of family-
friendly sites. And what’s new on
the glamping block for 2012 is an
ever-widening range of top-notch
accommodation: for 2012, Select
Camp has a new range of what it’s
calling its ‘lodge suites’ featuring a canopy bed, free-standing oval bath,
fully-equipped kitchen, shower and toilet – and a separate junior lodge
tent next to the main suite. Select Camp also has four new sites, three
in Italy and one in Spain – and coming soon, a brand new website which
should make browsing and booking a lot easier too.
Perfect for: budget-conscious, adventurous families.
Midsummer prices: from around £24 per person, per night
www.selectcamp.co.uk
Away from the crowds in NorfolkIf you love Cornwall and Devon, but are frustrated by the prices and
the crowds, why not head instead for Norfolk? Cottage prices for
midsummer are cheaper, it will take you less time to get there and
it’s much easier to get to and from the beaches and other attractions
because the roads are far less clogged. For a comfortable, child-friendly
cottage look on the Recommended Family Holidays website under the
‘East of England’ tab. Poppyland Cottages, for example, have a range
of properties dotted around a series of beautiful villages, and within
easy reach of lovely Blue Flag beaches – and everything on the website
has been checked for family-friendliness. Great pubs for lunches and
suppers out, too – and Norfolk is also a very good option for families
who love cycling.
Perfect for: Families wanting to get away from the crowds
Midsummer prices: from around £21 per person, per night
www.recommendedfamilyholidays.com
The Alps in AugustSwitzerland isn’t just for skiing: in fact, the Alps can be one of the
loveliest places in Europe for a summer holiday. As well as beautiful
weather, there’s a wealth of sporty things to do for both smaller children
and teenagers. Chilly Powder runs its Morzine chalet hotel through the
summer as well as the winter, offering the same attractions (professionally-
cooked food, childcare etc) and with the emphasis on comfortable living
alongside a wealth of outdoor pursuits. Morzine is an eight-hour drive
from Calais, or fl y to Geneva and hire a car. The chalet has 17 bedrooms
and there’s even a hot tub in the garden.
Perfect for: sporty families with children in different age ranges.
Midsummer prices: from around £120 per adult per night, discount for
children, half-board
www.chillypowder.com
All aboard for summer 2012It’s the depths of winter, so every family’s thoughts naturally turn to where they will be this summer. Joanna Moorhead has lots of ideas – and Families editors share their best holiday experiences.
January /February 2012 13
Luca and Maya and ice mobiles Families
Luca and Maya make ice mobiles
14
TheatreThe Adventures of Robin Hood9 December - 15 JanuaryDevonshire Park Theatre, onshire Park Theatre, onshire ParkEastbourneAn action packed pantomime extravaganza with stunning new costumes, fantastic live music, brand new script and the usual comedy mayhem you would expect from the Eastbourne Pantomime.01323 412000 www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk
Worthing Symphony Orchestra8 JanuaryAssembly Halls, WorthingJulian Lloyd Webber returns to play perhaps the most beautiful of all cello concertos. A selection of spectacular Hollywood fi lm scores surround the concerto as well as many famous sporting themes, fi nishing with Britten’s Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra.01903 206206www.worthingtheatres.co.uk
Holiday on Ice 2012Tropicana13-29 JanuaryThe Brighton CentreA journey that celebrates love, life, music A journey that celebrates love, life, music Aand dance in one of the most thrilling ice spectaculars you will ever see.0844 847 1538 www.brightoncentre.co.uk
Sister Act24 January - 4 FebruaryCongress Theatre, EastbourneThis fabulous, family-friendly, feel-good show is packed with songs inspired by Motown, funk, soul and disco. Now, as the habit hits the road, you too can see why audiences fell in love with the funniest and funkiest nun on the run, and her heavenly sequinned sisters!01323 412000 www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk
Moscow City BalletSwan Lake8-9 February Theatre Royal BrightonA fl awless production with a stunning A fl awless production with a stunning Ademonstration of precision, artistry and sheer grace. Following the fate of Prince Siegfried and the beautiful Swan Queen and Odette.08448 717 650www.atgtickets.com/brighton
Moscow City BalletThe Nutcracker10-11 February Theatre Royal BrightonThe Nutcracker tells how little Clara and her Nutcracker Prince defeat the armies of the mouse-king and embark on a magical sleigh-ride to the Kingdom of Sweets, where they meet the Sugarplum Fairy, dancing snowfl akes and a whole host of delightful characters.08448 717 650www.atgtickets.com/brighton
Fireman SamPontypandy Rocks!13 February 13 February 13Theatre Royal BrightonThe Hero next door is back due to popular demand with his live stage show Pontypandy Rocks! Join Fireman Sam, and all his friends, as Pontypandy hosts its fi rst ever music festival.08448 717 650www.atgtickets.com/brighton
Rumplestiltskin15 FebruaryPavilion Theatre, WorthingThe Panto Company spins this classic tale into a golden show for children of all ages, fi lled with clap-a-long songs and audience participation.01903 206206www.worthingtheatres.co.uk
Enchanted Mirror26 FebruaryConnaught Theatre, WorthingThe story of a young girl’s adventure which begins when she steps through the enchanted mirror into a magical world beyond, brought to the stage by the Sussex-based classical ballet company.01903 206206www.worthingtheatres.co.uk
CinemaBig Scream!Duke of York Cinema, BrightonEvery Wednesday morning at 11am mums, dads and carers with babies under one can enjoy a great fi lm at the Duke of York Cinema, Brighton. See website for fi lms.www.picturehouses.co.uk
Saturday morning Kids’ ClubDuke of York cinema, BrightonStarts 10.30am with drawing and a competition with a fi lm at 11am.Check website for fi lms.0871 704 2056 www.picturehouses.co.uk
Saturday morning picturesConnaught 2 Screen, WorthingEvery Saturday at 10.15amCheck website for fi lms.01903 206206 www.worthingtheatres.co.uk
Activities and eventsStory time Every week day at 4pm The Book Nook, First Avenue, Hove01273 911988 www.booknookuk.com
StorytimeEvery weekHove Library Fridays at 10.15am01273 290700Jubilee Library Wednesdays 10.15am01273 296960
Story MagicSensory story telling for children with special needsLast Saturday every month, 2.30pmJubilee Library, BrightonFirst Tuesday every month, 10.15-10.45amHove LibraryDiscover the magic of sensory stories particularly suited to children with profound and multiple learning disabilities.01273 296960www.brighton-hove.gov.uk
Tots That Rock Thursdays, 2-3pmHuntingdon Hall, Buckingham Road, Shoreham-by-SeaSinging and dancing and chat with other mums, dads and carers. [email protected]
Mumpreneurs Networking ClubLime House Cafe, St Pauls Church, Worthing14 January, 11 FebruaryChambers Bistro Old Town Hall, Shoreham 20 January, 17 February20 January, 17 February20 January, 17 FDavid Lloyd Centre, Brighton Marina21 January, 18 FebruaryThe Woolpack Inn, West Street, Burgess Hill21 January, 11 Februarywww.agoodgossipwww.agoodgossipwww .co.uk
Earthship Tours8 January, 12 FebruaryStanmer Park, BrightonExperience the eco-build and be inspired to respond to climate change.www.lowcarbon.co.uk
Open events for the BBC’s Stargazing Live at the Observatory Science Centre20-21 JanuaryThe Observatory Science Centre, HerstmonceuxThe Observatory at night and viewing through the Centre’s historic telescopes.01323 832731 www.the-observatory.org
Royal Pavilion Ice RinkUntil 22 JanuaryRoyal Pavilion, BrightonThere’s still time to enjoy skating post-xmas with penguin stabilisers and learners’ area, as well as boots available in sizes from ‘just walking’ with double blades to safe blades for bigger kids.www.royalpavilionicerink.co.uk
Bird Boxes for Spring6-11 years11 February Linklater Pavilion, Railway Land Nature Reserve, LewesCome and make a bird box for our feath-ered friends and some edible treats too. www.sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk
Our What’s On pages are put together several weeks beforehand and whilst we aim to be as accurate as we can, there may be some changes. Always contact the venue in advance to check details.
Families favouritesOur top picks for January and January and January February
★ Swan Lake ★A dramatic introduction to ballet for youngsters. Brighton, 8-9 February
★The Observatory Science Centre★Winter star gazing through some great
telescopes. 20-21 January
★Modelworld 2012★Immerse yourself in modelworld at
the Brighton Centre, 24-26 February
January /February 2012 15
What’s on FamiliesHalf term at the Observatory Science Centre11-19 FebruaryThe Observatory Science Centre, HerstmonceuxIn addition to the interactive hands-on exhibits there will be daily telescope tours exhibits there will be daily telescope tours and a spectacular science shows. There are dditional drop-in activities in the Zany are dditional drop-in activities in the Zany Zone and fantastic half day workshops for children. Check website for full details.. Check website for full details.01323 832731 www.the-observatory.org
Brighton Science Festival11 February - 1 MarchVenues across BrightonBrighton Science Festival includes family fun days and lots more for parents and kids during half term week. parents and kids during half term week. The Big Science Weekend is 25 - 26 February.www.brightonscience.com
Bird Boxes for Spring6-11 years11 February Wood Mills, Henfi eldCome and make a bird box for our feathered friends and some edible treats for them too. 01273 492630www.sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk
Worthing Music and Arts Main Event 201218 February - 4 MarchVenues across WorthingMusic and arts events in Worthing.www.worthingmusicfestival.org.uk
Bird Boxes for Spring6-11 years18 February Stanmer ParkCome and make a bird box for our feathered friends and some edible treats for them too. Meet on the green in front of the Church in Stanmer Park01273 492630www.sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk
Brighton Half Marathon19 February Brighton and Hove seafrontOne of the longest established and most popular seafront road race events in the UK.www.brightonhalfmarathon.com
Brighton Half Marathonyouth races19 February Brighton and Hove seafrontThe age groups for entrants are 8-10 years, 11-13 years and 14-16 years. The 1 mile race starts near the Peter Pan Playground on Madeira Drive, loops at Brighton Pier and fi nishes on the main fi nish line.www.brightonhalfmarathon.com
The Big Dance Off!21 February Triangle Leisure Centre, Burgess HillThe hotly-contested dance show where the audience chooses the winner on the night. Dancers of ALL ages, disciplines and abilities are invited to participate.07813 [email protected]
Modelworld 201224-26 FebruaryBrighton CentreA great day out for kids and adults alike with superb railway and model engineering displays it is a must for every modelling enthusiast. Attractions will range from a full size replica of the Battle of Britain Spitfi re aircraft, a huge model of Westminster Abbey built of LEGO, as well as ‘Have a Go’ workshops from Airfi x. www.brightoncentre.co.uk
Galleries and museumsEarly years Age 2-5Brighton and Hove MuseumsSessions include art and stories. 01273 290900 www.brighton-hove-museum.org.uk
New Eyes22 October - 19 February 2012Towner Gallery, EastbourneTowner Gallery, EastbourneTInspired by the Marcel Proust quote “The real journey of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes”, six artists from local artist network Bluemonkeynet have curated a stimulating new collection display.www.townereastbourne.org.uk
Dora GordineSculptor, Artist, Designer8 October - 21 January 2012Worthing Museum and Art GalleryAn opportunity to see this unique loan of over 25 sculptures, drawings, pho-tographs, letters and magazines from Dorich House Museum.www.worthingmuseum.co.uk
The Five Sense: Paintings from the Fine Art collection15 July - 1 MarchHove Museum and Art Gallery The Five Senses is a family-friendly small The Five Senses is a family-friendly small display that explores the variety of ways sensory experiences are portrayed in the visual arts.03000 290900 www.brighton-hove-museums.org.uk
Robot Invasion!15 October - 21 FebruaryHove Museum and Art Gallery Robots, rockets and ray guns of all shapes and sizes including many rare vintage and collectable items invade the museum in this space-age show of robot force!03000 290900 www.brighton-hove-museums.org.uk
Dress for Excess: Fashion in Regency England2 August - 5 FebruaryBrighton Museum and Art GalleryOriginal 18th and 19th Century pieces are displayed presenting the themes of Eighteenth century dress.03000 290900www.brighton-hove-museums.org.uk
Royal Pavilion Annual Free Day22 JanuaryRoyal Pavilion, BrightonTo celebrate the purchase of the Royal Pavilion by Brighton in 1850, admission charges are waived one day a year.03000 290900www.brighton-hove-pavilion.org.uk
Dreams of HereFrom 18 FebruaryBrighton Museum and Art GalleryNew work by Julian Bell, Tom Hammick and Andrzej Jackowski. An exciting exhibition of new work by three contemporary painters and printmakers who are all nationally recognised but at the same time have strong connections to Sussex. 03000 290900www.brighton-hove-museums.org.uk
Farmers’ marketsMermaid MarketSaturdays and Sundays 11am-4pmBrighton Marina Square
Lewes Farmers’ MarketFirst Saturday every monthCliffe Pedestrian Precinct, Lewes01273 470900 www.commoncause.org.uk
Brighton Farm MarketEvery Saturday 9am-3pmNorth Road, Brightonwww.brightonfarmmarket.co.uk
Upper Gardner Street MarketEvery Saturday 7am-5pmUpper Gardner Street, Brightonwww.brightonfarmmarket.co.uk
Shoreham Farmers’ MarketSecond Saturday every month 9am-1pmEast Street, Shoreham-by-Sea
Worthing Farmers’ MarketFourth Saturday each monthSouth Street Square, Worthing01903 203252
Motcombe Village Farmers’ Market Last Sat each month 10-1pm Community Wise, Ocklynge Road, Eastbourne01323 722924
Southwick and ShorehamCountry MarketEvery Friday 9.15-11amPorter Room, Southwick Community CentreHomemade cakes, plants, fresh eggs, handmade crafts and gifts.fi [email protected]
Get your event listed in Families Sussex Coast magazine:[email protected]
To publicise your event in Families Sussex Coast what’s on pages email [email protected]..
January /February 2012 16
www.familiessussexcoast.co.uk Families
