reflecting modern family living

IN THIS ISSUE: Holidays • Education • Bump to BusinessBirth & Beyond • Autism News • Competitions and much more . . .

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FREEIssue 13 • Winter 2013

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contents

4-8 Winter Warmers

Tips and products that will keep the whole familywarm as temperatures plummet this winter.

Beat the cold with our online shopping inspirations forwinter

9-13 Gift Inspirations

Overcome gift-giving conundrums with our simpleguide to purchasing the perfect gift for every occasion

COMPETITION – Win a Skibz Easter Bib

COMPETITION – Win your very own SafedreamsHoppy

14-15 Bump to BusinessWays to make your business STAND OUT by HelenLindop

16-18 Women in BusinessThe Gender AgendaFive businesswomen tell us how they started out

19 Made by Mums

20-21 Mums Show LiveThe place to be for mums of 4-12 year olds this May

22-31 Education

Choosing right independent school for your child byThe Independent Schools Council

Should there be a clear line between homeworkreading and bedtime reading? By Liz Walker

Products and services to support reading outside theclassroom

FREE! 4-week trial from Reading Eggs

Parents and young people are invited to explorevocational careers

DISCLAIMERThe information contained in My Family magazine is not meant to replace that of amidwife, healthcare professional or GP. My Family would always recommend thatyou seek medical information from a qualified health professional.

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32-35 Birth & Beyond

Shopping for a Newborn

Breastfeeding in the workplace

36-41 Holiday & LeisureFamily fun in Britain

Family friendly holiday accommodation

Child friendly festivals in England

42 Health & WellbeingKeeping healthy and warm this winter

43-48 Understanding AutismUnderstanding autism

Step in the Right Direction Autism Dance Day

The NHS and Continuing Care: An Introduction bySean Kennedy Legal Advisor for Anna KennedyOnline

An exciting year ahead for Anna Kennedy OBE

The latest news from annakennedyonline.com

Like us on facebookwww.facebook.com/pages/My-Family-magazine

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Front cover and feature images used under license from Shutterstock.com. Other images have been supplied by independent sources.

My Family magazine75 Elizabeth Court • Wigston • Leicester LE18 2AF

Telephone: 0116 2100911

For advertising enquiries emailkaren@myfamilymagazine.co.uk

For subscriptions and distribution information emailinfo@myfamilymagazine.co.uk

www.myfamilymagazine.co.uk

Hello and welcome to My FamilyMagazine’s first issue of 2013.We have loads of exciting thingsplanned for you over the comingmonths.

We start with the launch of our newlook website where you can check outwhat’s happening between issuesincluding coming events, new products launches, informativearticles and if you’ve missed a copy of My Family, you canaccess the last 8 issues in our archive. Clickable links makeshopping with our advertisers and sourcing information easyand you can subscribe to our first newsletter. From Februarywe have some fantastic online exclusive competition prizes togive away, so watch this space . . .

Winter is upon us once again and although this can be awonderful time of year, being cold can take the fun out of it.In this issue we share some tips on how to keep yourfamily warm as temperatures plunge and look at somefabulous winter warmers to help you beat the cold.

The big freeze may have taken hold but this needn't be theunhealthiest time of year for you and your family. If you arefeeling the urge to hibernate until springtime, check out our 5tips to keeping healthy and fit this season.

With Valentine’s, Mothers’ Day, Easter and many other giftgiving occasions just around the corner, we help you tochoose gifts for even the most difficult to choose for recipientswith a simple guide to purchasing the perfect gift forevery occasion.

In our education section, The Independent SchoolsCouncil advises on how to choose the right independentschool for your child. There are also some great products tosupport your child’s reading including an article by ReadingChest founder, Liz Walker and a FREE 4-week trial fromReading Eggs.

If you are planning a holiday this year, look out for our sectionabout Family Fun in Britain and browse information aboutsome of the best family friendly accommodation in the UK.

Wishing you all the best for 2013,

Karen xKaren Reddell – Editor

The TeamHazel AlemanyDesigner design@myfamilymagazine.co.uk

Julie ScottonAdvertising Sales julie@myfamilymagazine.co.uk

Helen Lindop Helen@businessplusbaby.com

Petrina Kightley-JonesKayjays Photography Kightley.jones@googlemail.com

A note from the editor

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WINTER WARMERS

For day or night, Zippy Suitsare the smart new essentialfor every baby’s capsulewardrobe!

Zippy Suits have a safe, single zip withinthe inside leg – reducing the time and stressof every baby change. This clever suit notonly makes life easier, but also looks goodand comes at a smart price. It’s available inseveral gorgeous designs, from pale nurserycolours through to vibrant funky prints. Tohelp become a wardrobe basic for everybaby, each 100% luxury cotton Zippy Suit isonly £12. Zippy Suits are

available fromwww.zippysuit.com andwww.amazon.co.uk.For all customer and trade enquiries, pleasecontact customercare@zippysuit.com.

Nicole Graham, founder of Zippy Suits said“I got so frustrated trying to match uppoppers whilst my daughter wriggledaround that in desperation I endedup making a sleepsuit with a zipinstead. She then wore thisevery night when not beingwashed! Research showedthat I was not alone and soZippy Suits were carefullydeveloped to meet the needs oftoday’s savvy parents.

Launched recently, Zippy Suits and bibshave really taken off, with many customersbuying again. Zippy Suits are particularlyhelpful for parents with very active babies orwith multiple babies. They also ease nighttime changes in dim light, as well as helpingparents and grandparents with reduced handdexterity.”

Super absorbent, bandana-style dribble bibsare available too. A cool and really practicalaccessory that makes a perfect set (Bibs from£3.95, Zippy Suit and bib set from £15.95).

Zippy Suits for Speedy Changes

As temperatures plummet youdon’t need to feel like you areout in the cold. We have puttogether some tips on how tokeep you and your familywarm this winter.

book; it is usually the warmest place!

Cuddle up to a hot-water bottle or use anelectric blanket – but not both at the sametime!

Eat WellFood is a vital source of energy, which helpsto keep your body warm. Try to make surethat you have hot meals and drinks regularlythroughout the day.

Keep activeStay on top of the chores – doing houseworkwill soon warm you up, but you will havemore fun, if you pop some music on and getthe kids up and dancing.

Keep your home warmKeep your main living room at around 18-21°C (65-70°F), and the rest of the house atleast 16°C (61°F). If you can’t heat all therooms you use, heat the living room duringthe day and the bedroom just before you goto sleep. Draw your curtains at dusk, keepyour doors closed and plug the gaps to blockout draughts.

Get the best dealenergysavingtrust.org.uk provides adviceon how to reduce bills and make your homemore energy efficient. They can also adviseon grants and schemes available around theUK.

Visit metoffice.gov.uk for practical ways toprepare for winter weather, including cold,ice and snow, high winds and flooding.

Wrap up warmWrap up warm, inside and out. Wear severallight layers of warm clothing, rather than onechunky layer. Head for bed early and read a

Winter Warmers

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WINTER WARMERS

Alpaca Annie duvets areexquisitely soft and made inNottinghamshire from onlynatural UK sourced materials. The Duvets and Pillows are made of 100%cotton fabric covers filled with pure alpacafibre – from our own herd!.

Alpaca fibre is similar to sheep’s wool inmany ways, yet it is much lighter, softer andcontains no lanolin - meaning Alpacaproducts are hypoallergenic (an excellentchoice for asthma and allergy sufferers).

Alpaca Annie Has Winter All Wrapped Up!

Alpaca Annie Duvets are uniquely handstitched to allow maximum air flow andwork with your internal thermostat, to keepyou at a comfortable temperate! Lightenough for summer, yet their insulatingqualities are incomparable, vital for thosecold winter nights. This comes from Alpacasadapting to the weather of their nativecountry the Andes, where temperatures soarand plummet to the extremes!

Alpacas do not shed their fibre, so they areshorn once a year and the rest of the timehave fun on the farm meeting their adoptiveparents and going for treks! This fibre is so

versatile – it’s sumptuous enough for duvets/pillows and strong enough to be turned intoAlpaca Wool and used for socks, jumpers,hats and scarves (without the prickly feelingof wool!).

There is no tog value on natural fibreproducts. However, we understand (for theweight of fibre per sq. metre) our duvets willperform similar to 13.5 in the winter and10.0 in the summer. The reason for this isAlpaca fibre manages body heat, unlikefeathers and synthetic materials whichsimply insulate.

www.alpacaannie.com

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WINTER WARMERS

Telephone: 07724 181 827www.handknitbabywear.com

Organic, traditional andalternative clothes for babiesto toddlers.

Hand made by professionalknitters in the UK.

We think ROAM has the perfect solution for keepingloved ones wrapped and cosy in the softest 100%Scottish Cashmere. Each designer blanket isindividually made, so you can choose your ownpersonal message and have it knitted directly into thedesign at our very own Scottish Borders micro-factory.

At ROAM we havetaken great pride insourcing the finestScottish Cashmere since2007. This gives ourblankets unrivalledtouch and drape, andthe resilience to last alifetime. Despite themyths, your cashmereblanket is easy to care for and loves a gentle wash to keep it looking asbeautiful as ever. In fact, with simple wash care, your favourite winterwarmer will become softer and more luxurious as the years roll by.

Come and visit us at

www.studioroam.co.ukor if you prefer, call us on 01896 758604.

We’re sure you’ll not be disappointed.

Splendid Cashmere Blanketsfor Babies, Mums and Dads

� Just zip up – no frustratingpoppers

� A wardrobe basic forevery baby

� Luxuriously soft, 100%cotton

� Several gorgeous designs, from palenursery colours through to vibrantfunky prints

� Available with matching bibs, adelightful present

� Comfy and practical, Zippy Suits havea zip guard and a cover over thefastening zip pull

� Suitable for machine washing andtumble drying

Prize draws, sales, reviews & more at:

www.facebook.com/zippysuit

www.twitter.com/zippysuit

www.zippysuit.com

10% offat checkoutFIRST10Z

www.sweateronline.com

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WINTER WARMERS

Beat the Winter blues with afantastic range of productsfrom organic bed linen andhome accessories store, TheFine Cotton Company. Theyspecialise in gorgeous organiccotton bedding, sumptuousblankets, the fluffiest organiccotton bath towels, organictowelling robes and slippers,and stylish home accessoriesfor adults, children and babies.

The Fine Cotton Company are totallypassionate about design and quality, with theemphasis on style and luxury, they offer arange of products which are soft to the touch,kind on the conscience and great value too.

Winter WarmersWith a little help from The Fine CottonCompany the whole family can stay warm withtheir fabulous range of 100% organic cottonbed linen made from beautiful quality fabricswith 200 – 600 thread count.

The Fine Cotton Company HelpYour Family Stay Cosy and Warm

perfect for the cold weather or with adeliciously warm Lambswool AngoraThrow, available in a range of in five coloursto add the finishing touch to your bedroom.

the house, sitting watching TV or travelling ona plane or in the car – the seat belt fits overthe Bugglebag® to keep your child safe.Bugglebag® is quick, easy, versatile and verycomfortable.

When it’s freezing outside, stay cosy and warmwith a 100% pure new wool or cashmerecovered luxury hot water bottle. Choosefrom a selection of wonderful designsincluding spots, dots, and beautiful tie topbottles in stripes or romantic hearts availablefor Valentine’s day.

Make the most of long winter nights, as yousnuggle down for a great night’s sleep with asnow goose duvet. This exquisitelysumptuous duvet is filled with the softest100% snow goose down, which is super lightand sensationally warm.

This can be matched with the Stowecollection of fitted sheets, flat sheets andduvet covers, made from certified 100%organic cotton flannel that has been lightlybrushed to give a super soft, warm and cosyfinish.

For an extra layer of comfort complement withthe Hampton organic cotton fleecethrow, an extremely snuggly blanket which is

Little ones will love bedtime too, with The FineCotton Companies new Owl design duvetcovers, which are embroidered with cute owlsin pink or blue. The fun children’s rangeincludes matching fleece blankets and hoodedorganic cotton baby towels, a must for baby’sbath time.

For kids on the go the Bugglebag® is a newcomfy snuggle bag with a difference – it leavesthe feet free so the child can walk around. Popon over clothes or pyjamas – it has a zip side,velcro fastening at the shoulder and a largepocket at the front which is great for keeping afavourite toy close at hand. A great alternativeto the dressing gown for wandering around

The Fine Cotton Company is a firm favourite ofMary Portas, Mary Queen of Shops who gavethe following review:

My bedroom is a sanctuary, where Ithink, where I write and where I rest.What I put on my bed has to take meinto a space of total relaxation andindulgence. So when I discovered TheFine Cotton Company I was literally inheaven.

Unsure of what you want?Call 0845 602 9050 and The Fine CottonCompany will advise you on the type ofbedding, what to buy for your new baby’snursery or even a gift suggestion – they arealways happy to help, have a gift registry andgift wrapping service, and ship Worldwide.

www.thefinecottoncompany.com

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WINTER WARMERS

myfamily

Keeping warmthis winter. . .

www.notonthehighstreet.com

www.zippysuit.com

www.handknitbabywear.com

www.alpacaannie.com

www.studioroam.co.uk

www.vitalbaby.co.uk

www.bundlebean.com

www.thefinecottoncompany.com

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GIFT INSPIRATIONS

Gift giving is a way ofexpressing your gratitude,recognition and appreciationfor someone special and a wayof expressing love, friendship,hope, sorrow, happiness andjoy. Giving a gift canstrengthen relationshipsbetween family, friends andeven business clients.

A Gift for Every Occasion

Whether it’s a gift for your mum’s birthday,your friend’s wedding, a weddinganniversary or to say thank you, we oftenfind ourselves heading for the wine, flowersand chocolates in order to find a ‘quick fix’to our gift giving dilemmas. We all know,deep down, that we could have chosenbetter!

It’s easy to run out of ideas and then thereare also ‘tricky to buy for’ recipient, whoseems to have everything and needs

nothing! At some point we all find ourselvesasking ‘What am I supposed to get?’

If you are facing a gift giving conundrum wewant to help you put a smile on your lovedone’s face. Because every gift givingopportunity is a chance to strengthenrelationships and show appreciation for thepeople we care about, here are a fewsuggestions to bear in mind when lookingfor the perfect gift solution…

� Don’t leave it until the last minute; giveit some thought before you go shoppingto buy the gift. Ask yourself what wouldbe the perfect gift to buy for the personreceiving it. Before you hit the highstreethave a few ideas in mind or you willwalk around aimlessly searching for theperfect gift.

� Decide what kind of gift you would liketo give. Sentimental, humorous orbreath-taking? Does the recipient have aquirky personality, a favourite colour, ora special interest?

� When you are buying for a childconsider age, ability and personality.Discretely ask child’s parent what theymight like and what others are buying,this will help avoid the disappointmentof duplicate gifts.

� Take a moment to remember somethingabout the person receiving the gift.Perhaps there was an event that youtwo have shared or a special memorythat you could relate to the perfect gift.

� Listen out for hints – has the recipientbeen hinting about something that theywould like to receive as a gift? Do theyhave a wishlist?

� Be personal. The perfect gift should bepersonal, after all that is what makes itthe perfect gift. Consider a personalisedpiece of jewelery or keepsake. Wouldthey prefer something that is hand-made?

� Be creative and bear in mind that if youhave bought the perfect gift in the past,that the perfect gift you bought for oneperson will not be the perfect gift foreveryone.

� Explore the internet. There is a world offabulous gift ideas at your fingertips.This will also take the legwork out of giftshopping as your gifts can be delivereddirectly to your door.

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GIFT INSPIRATIONS

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GIFT INSPIRATIONS

The Present Club has beenlaunched by Georgette Hewitt,a successful entrepreneur onthe hit BBC 2 TV programme,Dragons’ Den.

Georgette, once the City’s youngest everfemale trader and now a mother of three was

amazed by how hard it was to keep onconstantly buying presentsfor her kids and theirfriends. The dozens ofparties made itexhausting, but she hada gem of an idea. Shetook her idea into theDragons’ Den and cameaway having won thesupport of Peter Jones and Theo Paphitis.

Peter and Theo were blown away by thebrilliance of The Present Club’s awardwinning idea, which offers a facility for friendsand family to come together and buy a specialpresent for a person, meaning that unaffordablegifts become suddenly obtainable.

The Present Club website also givescustomers the option to instigate an onlinewhip-round for a work colleague or a teacher,taking away all the hassle involved in collectingmoney and signing cards because the websitehas a unique personal messaging system.

The concept is not only convenient, it saveswaste once and for all! The Present Club isfar greener than adding to the mountains ofunwanted presents that go neglected eachyear.

The Present Club gives online access to aworld of fantastic presents with some ofthe most popular retailers and serviceproviders on the market including Argos,House of Fraser, M&S, John Lewis,Thompsons and Marriott hotels – over70 great brands.

There is so much to choose from atThe Present Club – amazing

experiences and pamper days, topfashion, delicious food and wine, music, games,holidays and homeimprovements.Alternatively, you canprint or email a PresentClub voucher and givethe gift of choice toyour friend inseconds. From you, tothem, with a click ofyour fingers.

Join the online gift-givingrevolution and solve all your present needs at

www.thepresentclub.co.uk

The online gift-giving concept

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GIFT INSPIRATIONS

Bag Crazy can help with a great range of gifts for children andadults including iphone and ipad cases, tablet cases, neoprene lunch

bags, backpacks and sports bags.

Visit our NEW website to make your gift unique withthe simple to use, personalised design tool. You can

choose the design and name on any of our personalisedshopping bags, lunch bags, laptop bags, water bottles

and much more!

There's a gift for every occasion at

Looking for a giftthat's a bit different?

www.bagcrazy.co.uk • Tel: 01823 430530

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GIFT INSPIRATIONS

Easter Treats(the non-edible kind!)

You could win a Skibz Easter Dribble Bib– simply email your name and daytimecontact number toskibz@myfamilymagazine.co.uk.Closing date for entries is 20th March 2013.

You could win your very own Hoppy -simply email your name and daytime contactnumber tohoppy@myfamilymagazine.co.ukClosing date for entries is 20th March 2013.

It’s only January and we arealready being bombarded inevery supermarket withtempting chocolate Eastertreats! Chocolate eggs,chocolate bunnies, chocolatechicks, the list is endless!

Everyone needs a yummy chocolate egg atEaster time, but chocolate is not the only wayto enjoy Easter! Why not change things up abit, celebrate with an alternative Easter, andspoil your tot with these wonderful non-edible Easter gifts!

Skibz, makers of the award-winning dribblebibs, are adding another gorgeous design totheir ‘Made in Britain’ range, proving theytruly are the coolest bibs in town! Joining theimmensely popular series is a beautiful Easteregg design. This lovely bib would guaranteethe adorability factor when the little onesventure on their egg hunt!RRP: £15 Stockists: www.skibz.co.uk

night long. This soft cotton cot toy is madefrom airmesh and stuffed with hollowfibre,minimising the risk of suffocation andallowing the bond between baby and cuddlytoy to flourish! RRP: £14.99Stockist: www.safedreams.co.uk

As new-borns can’t indulge in chocolateeggs, a cuddly toy would be a greatalternative! Hoppy is the innovative, supercute rabbit has been developed with safetyand breathability in mind, allowing worriedparents a peaceful slumber whilst their littleone can snuggle up to their bedtime buddy all

Create a WishlistSave your friends the hassle of shopping for your present byadding items to your wishlist, which they can chip into at aclick of their fingers!

Going to a party today and have no present?You’re in luck, download and print our voucher which your friend can spendtowards any product on the website! Choose the amount and personalise thevoucher and give the gift of choice within seconds!

Start a CollectionFed up with the hassle that goes with organising a whip-round? Then look nofurther, start an online collection and email it out to friends and they cancontribute and leave messages. Perfect for teachers!

Searching for an extra-special baby gift or celebrationpresent for new mums and dads?

Our discerning customers know ROAM has the perfect solution...Our bespoke cashmere blankets have been keeping loved oneswrapped and cosy in the softest 100% Scottish Cashmere since2007. Splendid, contemporary heirlooms that will raise happy

smiles for many years to come!

visit us at www.studioroam.co.uk

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When you look around andsee that there are lots oflocal people running abusiness just like yours itcan be demoralising. Maybeyou’re in the wrongbusiness? Perhaps yourmarket is already saturated?

Ways to makeyour business

STAND OUT

Don’t despair because some healthycompetition shows that there is a demand forwhat you sell. Instead of giving up, you justneed to stand out from the crowd. Here aresome ways that you can do that:

Be differentTo stand out you need to be different from theother businesses out there. You don’tnecessarily need a unique product, though.You could but put a new twist on a well-known product or deliver a familiar service in anew way. In fact, selling a completely newproduct can be a big challenge because youmay need to spend time educating yourmarket about what you’ve got and why theyneed it.

So look around at the products and servicesalready out there, see where they aren’t fullymeeting people’s needs and work out how youcan do it better.

Have a strong brandOnce you have worked out how your businessis different, you can communicate this bydeveloping a strong brand. Branding goes waybeyond just a logo and is more like yourbusiness’s personality. So yes, it does includeyour logo, but it also includes the words andphotos you use on your website andbrochures, the way you answer the phone andany other way that your businesscommunicates with its customers or market.

The trick is to make sure this brand is bothconsistent and memorable. For example, ayoga teacher might want to communicatecalmness and balance, so it would make sensefor her to use a logo, colour scheme,photography and language that all suggestthese things. As for standing out, she couldlook at what she brings to the local area that isdifferent from all the other teachers. Perhapsshe specialises in a particular group of clients(e.g. pregnant and new mums) or maybe shehas a different approach or philosophy.

Whatever this difference is, it needs to comeacross loud and clear in her branding.

Be remarkableIn other words, be one of those businesses thatpeople remark on. Be so good, or original ordifferent that they want to tell their friends.That doesn’t mean that you need a wild andcrazy product, it could mean something assimple as having exceptional customer service.We’ve all been on the receiving end of terriblecustomer service, so speaking to a businessthat really does care about you as a customercan be a remarkable experience!

Promote, promote, promoteMany small businesses don’t stand outbecause they aren’t telling enough peopleabout their products. It doesn’t matter howgreat your product or branding is, if peopledon’t know about it then it’s going to beinvisible.

Are you doing enough promotion? Are thepromotional activities you are doing working?If not, try to be very specific about who yourideal customer is, then look for the places thatshe already goes, both online and in the realworld. Then go to those places yourself.

Using these simple ideas, you really can standout from everyone else and become the go-tobusiness in your area.

Helen LindopHelen helps parents growbusinesses around theiryoung families. You cangrab her free e-bookRunning a Business

Around a Family: 9 Steps to Success’ atwww.businessplusbaby.com/9steps

FROM BUMP TO BUSINESS

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FROM BUMP TO BUSINESS

To find out more about classes or franchise opportunitiescall 0121 585 7003 or visit www.tumbletots.com

• Using specifically designed equipment your child will learn agility, balance, climbing andco-ordination skills appropriateto their age

• A structured programme designed to build self confidence and develop essential listening and language skills

• Supervised by trained staff in a fun and caring environment

The springboardto confidencefor your child

If you are self-motivated,confident and enthusiastic, you

too could develop your ownsuccessful Tumble Tots business.

With 31 years experience and more than 500 centresnationwide, Tumble Tots leads the way in Active PhysicalPlay for Pre-school children. Since its inception, almost a

million children have benefitted from the programme.

As part of this established network of around 100franchised businesses, you will benefit from:

• Extensive & ongoing technical training• Business and marketing support from a central team of

experienced Tumble Tots personnel• The recognition of the market leading brand in the industry

Tumble Tots is Britain's leading NationalActive Physical Play Programme for childrenfrom 6 months to 7 years

A rewardingopportunity, more

than just financial!

Check out our shiny new website!WHAT’S NEW

� Read about up and coming events, shows, awarenesscampaigns, tried & tested by My Family, new productsand services.

� Subscribe to our newsletter.

� Don’t worry if you missed a copy of My Family you canread the latest issue and back issues online completelyfree of charge.

� Have fun with online exclusive competitions.

� Clickable links makes shopping with our favouritecompanies easy.

www.myfamilymagazine.co.uk

To advertise online, in our newsletter or in the nextissue, email info@myfamilymagazine.co.uk or call

0116 2100911.

Deadline for bookings and artwork is5.00pm on Friday 15th March.

Like us on facebookwww.facebook.com/pages/My-Family-magazine

Follow us on Twitterwww.twitter.com @MyFamilyMag

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Every year on the 8thMarch, the world celebratesInternational Women’s Day,recognising and applaudingwomen’s achievements aswell as observing andhighlighting genderinequalities and issues.

The Gender Agenda

Women's organisations and governmentsaround the world observe InternationalWomen’s Day by holding large-scaleevents that honour women's advancement,while diligently reminding of the continuedvigilance and action required to ensure thatwomen's equality is gained, and maintainedin all aspects of life.

With more women in the boardroom,greater equality in legislative rights, and anincreased critical mass of women's visibilityas impressive role models, one could think

that women have gained true equality.

The unfortunate fact is that women are stillnot paid equally to that of their malecounterparts, women still are not present inequal numbers in business or politics, andglobally women's education, health and theviolence against them is worse than that ofmen.

However, great improvements have beenmade. We do have female astronauts andprime ministers, girls are welcomed intouniversity, women can work and have afamily, and women have real choices.Therefore, the tone and nature of IWD hasmoved from being a reminder about thenegatives to a celebration of the positives.

Annually on 8 March, a global web of richand diverse local activity connects womenfrom all around the world, to inspire andcelebrate women’s achievements. Rangingfrom political rallies, business conferences,government activities and networkingevents through to local women's craftmarkets, theatrical performances, fashion

shows and more.

You can join them and makea difference, think globally

and act locally!! MakeEVERYDAY International

Women’s Day – do your bit to ensurethat the future for girls is bright, equal,

safe and rewarding.

Each year thousands of InternationalWomen’s Day events are uploaded by

corporations, women's groups, schools,governments, charities and individuals fromaround the world. No matter where you arethere is bound to be a range of excitingevents near you.

To find out how you can get involved visitwww.internationalwomensday.comon twitter @womensday or on facebookwww.facebook.com/Internationalwomensday.

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Naturally Cool Kids Founder:Fiona Wood

As a mum of two sons, Ihave experiencedeverything from sniffles toglue ear; and prickly heat toeczema. I founded NaturallyCool Kids in July 2010 afteryears of being frustrated bythe lack of affordable,natural skincare for kids.

Like many parents, I’ve alwaysused natural products on mychildren’s skin, but when summer came, there were fewalternatives to chemical-laden sunscreens; and in winter I had tocompromise my sons’ natural skincare for cold protectioncontaining petroleum and other additives that have been linked tocarcinogens*, and which I absolutely wanted to avoid!

As I looked further, I started to think about how I could use myexperience to create a children’s skincare range for parents who arelooking for a more natural, greener way to protect their children’sskin and health.

My big break came when mums from all over the UK voted forNaturally Cool Kids to win the Barclays Take One Small Step newbusiness idea competition – a national campaign which aims to findpeople with outstanding business ideas and help to get themstarted.

As a result, I’ve developed six products which only contain lovely,natural and soothing ingredients . . . and not a nasty in sight!

Having the privilege of creating products from scratch meant thatwe could choose where and how we manufacture, so, true to ourpassion for all things natural, we’ve made sure that our productsare kind to the environment, and we also manufacture in the UK.Careful thought has also gone into the packaging design too, tomake it so easy to use that children can even do it themselves!

Success in 2012We were blown away when we found out that we had one notonly one but two awards in the My Family Magazine’s Best forBaby 2012. The winning products Cheeky Chops Lip & CheekProtector and Rub A Dub Dub Hair & Body Wash, were entered bymembers of the public for consideration, when they were asked tonominate products that made life with little one’s that bit easier.

Further success followed in 2012, after beating off stiff somecompetition and impressing 17 high profile judges included DuncanBannatyne OBE, Luke Johnson and BBC Click’s Kate Russell,Naturally Cool Kids were named Mumpreneur Business of the yearat the Startups Awards 2012. Naturally Cool Kids also came in theTop 3 businesses of the whole event identified as a company thatwill do well in the future.

And there are big plans for Naturally Cool Kids in the future so besure to read our regular news updates on the website!

www.naturallycoolkids.com

Alpaca Annie Founder:Anne Clifton Holt

Anne and Robert are hands on farmers as were boththeir parents. Over the years they have kept abreast ofnew ideas and have diversified in their farmingactivities. Their two sons Alan and Toby have joinedthem and both play an active role in the running of thefarm.

When you visit Haguelands Farm you are greeted by a large newtimber building designed and fitted to a high specification andincorporating a Bistro with an attached conference room and avariety of shops. The Bistro has an excellent, varied menu forbreakfast, lunch or dinner, including delicious cakes and biscuits toaccompany a cup of coffee or afternoon tea. All the food is locallysourced, freshly cooked and the chefs also provide cookery coursesfor all ages and one-off cookery evenings.

There’s a gift shop with many lovely hand- made, locally sourceditems and an excellent fish shop with the widest range for maximumchoice and a unique shop full of local produce, delicious cheeses,eggs, fresh vegetables, jams, chutneys, a variety of cooking oils andfresh orange juice are just some of the range on offer. For children,there is a large play area and in the summer months a superb MaizeMaze (weather permitting) to delight everyone.

The alpacas are Anne’s passion and with Robert’s help they arebuilding a strong herd. Anne started the herd in 2008; they nowhave 31 alpacas and a few more on the way, so it is a busy andexciting time on the farm.

Anne takes an active part in the day-to-day running of the herd,halter training the young alpacas, and trekking with the older ones.She is regularly spotted out in the paddocks making sure they arehappy and well and, with Robert’s help they do all the necessaryhusbandry tasks, such as toe clipping and weighting alpacas.

Anne is slowly learning all about Alpacas. She has attended courseson all the different aspects involved with keeping them. Alpacas arenaturally inquisitive and love to meet people; guests can take thealpacas out on a supervised trek followed by a picnic.

Haguelands is a happy, stress free environment for the alpacas andthey thrive on it. Anne says ‘All our alpacas are available foradoption and we look forward to welcoming adopted parents to thefarm to meet and enjoy their chosenor gifted alpaca’.

Visit www.alpacaannie.com formore info on trekking and to checkout the Alpaca products. AsHaguelands is a working farm we askyou to make an appointment, we dotry to fit in with your arrangements,but please be aware that this is notalways possible. We also limit theamount of visitors per weekend forthe welfare of our animals.

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Mother and nowGrandmother, Rita Corriganhas a hands-on role at theheart of family business.

Wanting a new challenge, Rita andhusband Mike purchased EastfieldsFarm, which is situated betweenMiddlesbrough and Stokesley inNorth Yorkshire, in 2001.

Whilst not farmers previously, thecouple always had a keen interestin nature, wildlife and the greatoutdoors, and although they hadinitially dreamed of a quiet life,they set about creating asustainable working environmentand a haven of tranquillity thatothers could enjoy.

The couple worked closely withTees Valley Wildlife, Askham BryanAgricultural College and localvolunteers on programmes

including bird, bat, pond andwildflower surveys. They plantedthousands of trees to createwoodlands, restored and replantedhedgerows, excavated ponds andditches to create wildlife habitats.

Award winning Blackthorn Gate isthe latest development on thefarm – four luxury, eco-friendly,holiday lodges with the beautifulNorth Yorkshire Moors NationalPark right on the doorstep.

Life on the farm with

Rita Corrigan

For more information visit www.blackthorngate.co.uk

Originally the idea came to mejust over 5 years ago, at 28weeks pregnant, while onholiday in Spain.

I was aware that lying on myback with my tummy in the sunwas not advisable, as apparentlyan unborn baby doesn’t like thebrightness in its eyes and willturn away in the womb. Lyingon my front was just not anoption unless I dug a big hole inthe sand! It seemed obvious thatall I needed was a lilo with a holein it for my tummy to go in.

I got to work on the project andin 2009 the Holo® was born!

The Holo® has received excellentreviews including TV presenterJenni Falconer’s and in 2012 atthe Baby Show Holo® tookcentre stage in the fashion show.

Today international interest isgrowing with Holo® proving tobe an instant hit with happymums-to-be, physiotherapistsand pregnancy yoga teachersworldwide.

Inventor of the Holo®: Emma Benson

www.holo-lilo.com

Stephanie Lumley:Tumble Tots FranchiseeSix years ago, who would have thought that Iwould be doing what I am doing today, certainlynot me! The transition from a successful seniormanager in a large multinational company, to amother of two boys running my own business,has been a surprisingly smooth one!

I gave up work tohave my first son,as I knew that apart time role wasnot realisticallygoing to work forme. For a while,being a stay athome Mum wasgreat, howeverafter eight months Ineeded some adultcompany andsomething thatused my brain. It’snot that being aMum wasn’t enough, it was harder work than anything I’d donebefore, but I needed something for me, which still fitted in withfamily life. There aren’t that many opportunities out there todayand seeing my friends whose children have started schoolstruggling to find work that suits, I’m thankful for how thingshave turned out.

My son was one when I bought my local Tumble Tots franchise. Iworked 3 days a week, my son went to nursery for two of those

days and because Tumble Tots is for childrenaged 6 months to 7 years, he came to workwith me for the other day.

Owning a franchise gives me theopportunity to run my own business but

at the same time I have some support.Making it a success is up to me andfive years on we’re still going. I candecide what days and times to runclasses, and have arranged ourtimetable around the school year, andschool times, juggling all the otherbusiness administration is done when Ican fit it in. My Tumble Tots franchise

gives me the chance to network andmeet Mums in the local area, and to

make good friends. My staff have familytoo, so Tumble Tots works well for them.My second son was born 5 weeks agoand he will come to work with me too.

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MADE BY MUMS

The award winning company dedicated to making children Feel Good about themselves

and their world.

Fun, educational products that help to build conf idence and self esteem.

Encouraging children to feel happy, creative, magical and special.

Bring the Feel Good factor into your home!

www.feelgoodfriends.comFor more information visit

Award winning BuggyTug is rapidlybecoming a safety essential for all newmums. With an rrp of just £3.99 have yougot yours yet?

BuggyTug is available nationwideincluding fromwww.buggytug.com,Asda, John Lewis,Jo Jo Maman Bebe& Kiddicare.

My Family 13 b 26/1/13 19:39 Page 19

MUMS SHOW LIVE

If you feel guilty about leaving yourchildren to go to work, if tellingyour children about the birds andthe bees makes you weak at theknees or if you worry about howto discipline your children, then fearnot. Mums Show Live,the UK’s first show forparents of four-to-12year olds, is takingplace at AlexandraPalace this coming May(16-19) to answer all ofthese questionsand more.

Things to do atthe show

Join in at The ConversationTheatre which will be filled with a mixof celebrity and expert presentersaddressing issues surrounding health,entertainment and education. It will bethe perfect destination to get answers toall those questions you were too afraidto ask. Come and enjoy the ‘round-table’, open, café-style format where theaudience and presenters are as one.Speakers include the kids’ life coachNaomi Richards, broadcaster and parentingambassador Sue Atkins, and author of TheTimes blog ‘School Gate’ Sarah Ebner.

Listen and learn at The Inspiration Theatrewhere you will hear from leading experts andcompanies about innovative techniques andproducts that could have a real and meaningfulimpact on your life. Lectures will cover a widerange of topics and skills; from photographing thefamily to jam making, from getting back to workto wine tasting.

Chill out by the Fridge Door and leavemessages for friends and family. Moreimportantly, relax and have a well-earned cupof tea and slice of cake.

Shop in the Fashion section and Marketplace.See a wide selection of the best and coolest

fashion for both you and your children, withsome great retailers including Joules

and Fit Flops.

Get inspired in Lifestylewhich will keep you stockedup with great rainy day and

trip ideas, ensuring you’re themost imaginative mum ever, then

wander round The School Gates tokeep you up to date on

the latest teaching aidesand education services.

Finally, dump yourman and kids in

The Den, filled withentertainers and

games, and sneakoff to Mum’s theWord to discover

all the littletreats that will

make you feel like thesuperwoman you are.

Tickets

Book your ticket now to meet experts,join live debates and get face-to-face withleading brands. Tickets are just £10* –book online or call 0844 854 0504.

Opening timesThursday 16th pm previewFriday 17th 10:00 – 17:00Saturday 18th 10:00 – 17:00Sunday 19th 10:00 – 17:00

For the latest schedules and a taste ofwhat’s on offer at the show, visit

www.mumshowlive.com

*When booked in advance, £15 on the door.Terms & Conditions apply.

The New and Only Show for Mums ofWonderful, Brilliant, Infuriating, School Aged Children

20 myfamily

My Family 13 b 26/1/13 19:39 Page 20

*When booked in advance, £15 on the door. Terms & Conditions apply.

Exhibition & Conversation ALEXANDRA PALACE 16 - 19 MAY 2013

www.mumshowlive.com 0844 854 0504

Hundreds of sponsors and exhibitors including..

and they’reall grown upBlink...

��The new and only show for mums of wonderful, brilliant, infuriating, school-aged children.

��Shop the vibrant marketplace, and discover everything from family days out to leading brands and innovative new products.

For the latest schedules and a taste of what’s on offer at this show,especially for you, visitwww.mumshowlive.com

Tickets just

£10*

��Full of energetic discussions in our theatres. Then enjoy a little ‘me time’ too.

��All weekend long there will be entertainment for kids and dads in the Den and across the grounds of Alexandra Palace.

Book nowonlineor call 0844 854 0504

My Family 13 b 26/1/13 19:41 Page 21

22 myfamily

EDUCATION

The Independent SchoolsCouncil (ISC) brings togethereight associations whichrepresent over 1,200independent schools in theUK. These schools areranked among the best inthe world and educate morethan half a million childreneach year, around 80 percent of independentlyeducated pupils.

Choosing the RightIndependent Schoolfor Your Child

How to choose an independentschoolChoosing the right school is a veryimportant decision that takes plenty of timeand research. At www.isc.co.uk you can doa personalised school search to find an ISCschool in the right area which matchesrequirements including boarding, gender,age range, examinations and financialassistance. The registrar at each school willbe available to answer any questions andwill be happy discuss how their school canbest meet each child, and family’s, needs.

Each child needs to be given specificopportunities and support in order to excel.The diversity of our independent schoolsmeans that you can match the specialism ofthe school to each child’s individual gifts andchallenges.

For very clever children there are a numberof highly academic, selective schools. Forthe very bright child you can be sure thatsuch schools will stretch them and havemuch expertise at gaining admission to thebest universities.

For musical children there are schools whichspecialise in music or have outstandingmusic departments. The cathedral schoolsoffer pupils the incredible experience ofsinging in a cathedral choir.

For children who are good at sport, it is easyto find an independent school which willguarantee them good coaching, a fullfixture list and the opportunity to playalongside other children of high athleticability.

For children with special needs such asdyslexia or autism, there are manyoutstanding independent schools offeringthe best provision in the country for suchchildren.

For parents who wish for their children to beeducated in a single-sex environment, thereare a large number of exceptionally goodindependent schools which cater solely orpre-dominantly for boys or girls.

Another important specialism is boarding.There are some very good state boardingschools, but they are few in number. Parentschoose independent boarding schoolsbecause they offer a secure environmentwhere pupils receive excellent care,outstanding teaching and unparalleledaccess to extra-curricular activities.

The value of independenteducation

Academic success

ISC exam results from 2012 reveal that;more than half of ISC pupils (51.39%)achieve A* or A grades at A-level(compared with a national average of26.6%), and six out of ten (60.0%) GCSEand IGCSE entries achieve A* or A grades(compared with a national GCSE average of22.4%). Further information about resultsfor year 11 and year 13 can be found on ourwebsite http://www.isc.co.uk/press/press-releases

Route to university

Independent schools are very strong intraditional subjects. In order to get into thebest universities it helps if you have studiedthe subjects that those universities want.Private schools in the UK teach thesesubjects especially well. Subjects like music,Latin and Greek are not offered to A-level inmany state schools. Subjects like modernlanguages, maths, chemistry and physicshave a bigger take up in fee-paying schoolsthan in the state sector.

91% of ISC pupils continue on to highereducation.

Small class sizes and good discipline

ISC schools have a higher staff to pupil ratioand as such are able to offer significantlysmaller class sizes with 9.4 pupils for everyteacher.

Freedom

Because our schools are free fromgovernment interference, they can organisethemselves in the way which best suits yourchild. They do not have to follow theNational Curriculum. They can set their ownpay scales to attract the very best teachersand support staff.

Extra-curricular opportunities

Independent schools are very strong inextra-curricular activities. Sport, music anddrama tend to be stronger at independentschools than in state schools. This isespecially true of schools which have someboarders but is in fact true of allindependent schools. In most state schools,a small PE department has to manage mostof the sport. In most independent schoolsmany teachers are required to help withsport, so greatly increasing the number ofteams that compete in any week. Sportssuch as rugby and cricket, not to mention

© Hallfield School

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EDUCATION

rowing and fencing, are dominated byindependent school pupils.

You will no doubt have read thatindependently educated athletes performedparticularly well at the London 2012Olympics. You may therefore find thesefigures useful:

45 out of the 114 medal-winning athletes inteam GB attended an independent school.This takes into account 12 athletes who wontwo medals (including two independently-educated: Chris Hoy and LauraBechtolsheimer).

In terms of medals - independent schoolathletes accounted for all or part (dependingon if it was a team or solo event) of 24 outof the 65 Team GB medals.

Fee assistance

Even in this time of recession, the number ofpupils in ISC schools nationally has risen,demonstrating that parents continue toconsider finding fees for independenteducation a priority.

ISC schools are sympathetic to the financialchallenges facing many parents and theamount of fee assistance available hasgrown to reflect this. ISC schools providedalmost £600million in fee assistance in2012.

Attitudes to the sector

More parents than ever would choose toeducate their child at an independent schoolif they could afford it, according to researchpublished today.

The Populous survey of 2,057 adultscommissioned by the Independent SchoolsCouncil (ISC) found that nearly six out often (57 per cent) of parents would sendtheir child to an independent school if theycould afford to. Only 25 per cent would not.This is the highest favourable response inthe survey’s history: in 2002, 48 per centsaid they would and 42 per cent said theywould not.

Unprompted, better standards of educationremains the key reason parents would optfor the independent sector (51 per cent).

7 in 10 of all adults agree that independentschools provide good university andemployment prospects for pupils as well asgiving them opportunities to fulfil theirpotential.

The public strongly believe that independentschools have higher educational standardsthan state schools (59 per cent), with only 6per cent believing they are lower and 23 percent saying they are about the same. Theview that independent schools offer ahigher standard of education has beengrowing stronger over the past decade from49 per cent in 2002 to 59 per cent in 2012;by contrast, the proportion believingindependent school standards to be lowerhas hardly changed, falling from 9 per centin 2002 to 6 per cent in 2012.

For full information, please see our recentpress release:http://www.isc.co.uk/press/press-releases/2012/more-parents-than-ever-favour-independent-education-2012-11-12

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EDUCATION

Our next Open Morning will be held onSaturday 9th February 2013between 10.00am and 12.00pm.For full details contact Mrs Alyson Devonshire, Directorof Marketing and Admissions, for an application form.

Church Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 3SJ.

0121 454 1496www.hallfieldschool.co.uk

Achieving excellence in all we do.Hallfieldfirst, 3 months - 2 years, Pre-Prep, 2+ - 7+ and Upper School 7+ - 11+

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EDUCATION

Hedgehog Hill Day Nursery is anindependent Day Nursery andPre-school located in the centreof the village of Greens Norton,Towcester, Northamptonshire.Whilst benefiting from a quietcountry location the nursery iseasily accessible to the mainroutes for Milton Keynes,Northampton and Oxford.

Give Your Child the Best Start at

Hedgehog Hill Nursery

The nursery provides a safe, secure andfriendly environment where your child canlearn and develop, while receiving a goodgrounding for the school years ahead of them.

Hedgehog Hill is spacious and well equipped,with facilities that include a Baby Suite whichcaters for babies from 6 weeks. Within theBaby Suite there is a calming Sleep Room withmood lighting and calming music, where littleones can take a nap in individual cots whilebeing continually monitored. The Nursery is awell-designed and homely room where babiesare nursed by caring and experiencedmembers of staff and for the ‘movers andgroovers’, the Play Room provides an areawhere babies learn to move and play safely.

For toddlers the fully equipped, large openplan ‘Happy Hippos’ room, includes an indoorplayground allowing toddlers the freedom toexplore, learn and play whilst they are closelysupervised by fully qualified, caring staff.

Pre-School children are provided with a morestructured approach to play and learning in the‘Funky Monkeys’ room which offers thefreedom of indoor/outdoor play. Inpreparation for their move into primaryeducation, this area of the nursery containsage appropriate equipment and has the benefitof an IT Suite with internet access.

Exploring the outdoors is an important part ofevery child’s development, therefor all agegroups have access to the garden and aretaken on regular walks through the village to

visit the Jubilee Gardens, Pocket Wildlife Park,playground and local small holding. In thenursery garden children are encouraged tostudy a multitude of mini-beasts as well aslearning to grow their own tasty vegetables.

Hedgehog Hill’s motivated and qualified staffwork with the children to achieve the fourprinciples of the Early Years Foundation Stage(EYFS). To find out more or to book a place atHedgehog Hill Day Nursery, please call us on01327 323012 and we'll be happy to help!Follow us at www.facebook.com/hedgehoghill.nursery or on twitter@NurseryHedgeHog.

Hedgehog Hill recently became part of theBest Start Nurseries family, which was foundedby owner Sue Ensor in May 1990. Based inSouth Leicestershire, Best Start Nurseries havetwo childcare provisions – St Mary’sMontessori Day Nursery in Lutterworth andAlma Park Nursery in Wibtoft. For moreinformation or to arrange a visit go towww.beststartnurseries.com or call01455 554034.

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EDUCATION

Established since 1997, Ladybird DayNursery provides a friendly stimulatingand safe environment where childrenenjoy challenging activities that stretchtheir imaginations and help develop arange of new skills.

Registered with Ofsted Early Years – allstaff hold appropriate childcarequalifications.

The nursery also benefits from a large,secure garden and CCTV.

Situated next to Edgbaston countycricket ground, opposite Cannon HillPark, Ladybird Day Nursery offersflexible childcare for up to 29children from 0-8 years of age –including school holidays andteacher training days.

Open Monday - Friday, 7.00am until 6.30pm (excluding bank holidays)

Telephone: 0121 440 5706

www.theladybirdnursery.co.uk

3

Feel Good Friends is the award winningcompany whose fun, educational products helpchildren feel good about themselves and theirworld.

Teaching children aboutfeelings, and how toexpress themselves from ayoung age, gives themimportant skills that willbenefit them throughoutlife. These skills are criticalfor their wellbeing and forbuilding relationships.

The first step in coping with afeeling is identifying it, which is why it is soimportant to explore the language offeelings with children, expanding their vocabulary of feeling wordsand their meanings. When children learn to express themselves, theyare better able to calm themselves, bounce back after conflict anddisappointment, and they will get along better with others.

Feel Good Friends resources are great tools to help children becomefamiliar with different feelings in a fun way. For more information visit

www.feelgoodfriends.com

Learning about Feelings

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EDUCATION

Babies and children love to browsethrough books well before they canread, and if children can exploretheir books independently, it helpsto plant a love of books andreading, right from the start.

As Geraldine Grandidier, mum and TidyBooks company founder explains; “Ordinarychildren’s bookcases decorated or not, madeno sense to me – books fall out. Plus howcan you put such thin books of different sizeson an ordinary shelf? I wanted somethingthat worked well for kids and their books, soI created the original Tidy Books Children’sBookcase.”

“8 in 10 kids who are aboveaverage readers have books of

their own at home.”National Literacy Trust Book Ownership Report 2011.

The Tidy Books Children’s Bookcase isperfect book display and storage for yourchildren:

n Front panels keep children’s books inplace.

n Holds 85 children’s books of all shapesand sizes.

n Slimline design; takes up very little floorspace.

n Finished in eco friendly water lacquer.

Put books at the heart of your child’s world withan award winning Tidy Books Children’s Bookcase

“A great, well made and easy to assemblebookcase. Ideal for children who can choosebooks by their front covers rather than theirspines. My 3 year old loves it!” Carolyn.

The Tidy Books Box, is your handy bookbox with a play clock. Awarded a Motherand Baby Silver medal, the Tidy Books Boxwill put books at the heart of your children’sworld, and the play clock gives them a lovelyintroduction to tidy up time!

Visit our website, tidy-books.co.uk, to findout more and buy. Special 20% Discountfor My Family Readers – used codeMYFAM20. Expires May 30th 2013.

Learning to ‘enjoy’ reading ismore important than ‘learningto read’. Bedtime readingshould be an enjoyable time –not a stressful time for parentsor children.

If children enjoy reading and they are not tootired to read at bedtime, then there is noreason why reading school books or

‘homework reading’ cannot be done atbedtime. For beginner readers or strugglingreaders however, bedtime can be the worsttime to do reading. This is when children areat their most tired and more likely to makemistakes and get frustrated. It is not verymotivating for children to hear commentssuch as ‘but you’ve just read that word onevery other page – of course you know it!’

Bedtime can also be a good time for siblingsto read to each other – even if it is the samefavourite book every night! Older siblingswill enjoy the responsibility of reading toyounger siblings, their confidence will growand their reading skills will benefit.

If the book is suitable, you could always usethe bedtime reading opportunity to share theodd page or line with a child who wants tohelp out, or perhaps play a game such astrying to find certain high frequency wordssuch as ‘and’ or ‘this’ , or find all the wordson the page beginning with ‘t’.

Even if you are lucky enough for yourchildren to read by themselves or for siblingsto read to each other at bedtime, it is still soimportant for parents to read to theirchildren. It is a special time to be sharedwhen children can appreciate what reading isall about and hopefully develop a love ofreading not just the ability to read.

Should there be a clear line betweenhomework reading and bedtime reading?

by Li z Walker, proprietor, www.readingchest.co.uk

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EDUCATION

National Storytelling Week takes place at theend of January and multi award winningchildren’s brand, My Wonder, have the perfectway to get the little ones enjoying stories fromday one with their Goldilocks story filler,allowing children to enjoy the much-loved taletime and time again!

Fill their World with aWONDER-ful story

This classic tale of Goldilocks and the Three Bearsis brought to life with this gorgeous 12 piece setof material squares for the original Wondercube,along with the printed story so parents can read

while their children follow along with thesequenced Wonder squares. The simplicity is what

makes it so great – a cube packed with textilesquares that children can pull out one by one – justlike they do with the box of tissues or baby wipes!

Although based upon a simple idea, it allows thelittle ones to use a variety of skills and encouragesthem to explore and also helps stimulate babies’senses and develop their fine motor skills. Each

square has a different feel and sound to investigate; the pieces canbe pulled apart, stuck back together, and rearranged in any order.Wondercube is a real investment for parents too, as it has beendesigned to grow with the child. As well as the soft Wondercube, asolid wooden version is also available which for older childrenbetween the ages of 2-6. With a huge choice of innovative add- onfillings - including numbers, letters, animals and storybooks - theadaptability and versatility of this simple cube is infinite.

RRP: Starting from £17.99 (For Wondercube) and £12.99 for theGoldilocks filler and storybook

Stockists: www.mywondecube.co.uk, Selfridges, amazon.co.ukSuitable from: newborns up to 6 years

My Family 13 b 26/1/13 19:44 Page 28

The reason why over 90% of parents using Reading Eggs report a noticeable improvement in their child’s reading skills is because the program makes learning phonics and basic reading skills fun. Children are inspired by the interactive games and activities and want to keep on learning. Reading Eggs will not only build reading skills, it will also help establish positive attitudes towards learning, which will help set your child up for success at school.

Reading Eggs has been created by a group of education professionals and has now been used by more than 2 million students all over the world. Take advantage of our special 4 week FREE trial today and see for yourself how your child’s reading will improve through using Reading Eggs.

The online reading program for 3-13 year olds

Where children learn to read! www.readingeggs.co.uk

Ages3-4

First Steps

PhonicsLetter recognition

Age5

Ready for School

Sight wordsVocabulary

Fun PracticeMakes Perfect

e-booksSpelling

Ages6-7

Continuingthe Journey

ComprehensionLive games

Ages7-13

All you have to do is register your child at www.readingeggs.co.uk Registration is quick, easy and FREE but HURRY, this offers ends on 14th May 2013.

Simply enter the below code once registration is complete.

*Free trial code can only be redeemed by new customers. Not available for schools.

FREE ACCESS CODE: UKJ24MFM

For 3 to 13

year olds

Get your FREE 4 week trial

today!

FREE 4 WEEK TRIAL*

My Family 13 b 26/1/13 19:44 Page 29

6. Free initial consultation - Come along and judge for yourself!

Six great reasons to choose Explore Learning...& get your child to love learning!

1. Support your child’s school workWe work extensively with local schools and all our courses are mapped to the National Curriculum. This means that we can support your child every step of the way from foundation to secondary.

2. An individual plan for your childAt Explore Learning we cater for children of all abilities - stretching and challenging whilst supporting and nurturing. Your child will work at their own pace and to a personalised plan that can cover all elements of maths and English, ranging from handwriting, spelling and poetry to telling the time and fractions.

3. Flexible membershipExplore Learning centres can be found throughout the UK and are open 7 days a week all year round meaning children get consistent support throughout term-time and holidays. Once members, children can attend the Explore Learning centre twice a week without booking or calling in advance.

4. In partnership with parentsTutors work in partnership with parents and children, allowing families to come in to discuss their child’s progress throughout and tailor their individual concerns to their child’s tuition.

5. Fun and friendly environmentOur centre is a fun and friendly place where children boost

Maths & English tuition

We have centres throughout the UK. For details of your nearest centre please visit our website, or call

01483 447410

www.explorelearning.co.uk

Husna, Parent

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EDUCATION

Parents play a key role ininfluencing their children’s jobchoices, according to research byThe Skills Show, the UK’s largestfree skills and careers event. Thefigures suggest that almost athird of children and youngpeople are most influenced byparents and teachers whenselecting their future careers.

With this in mind, it is vital that parents are asaware as possible of the different career optionsopen to their children, as well as understandingthe different paths that they might take toachieve a successful career. As a result childrencan make informed decisions about their future.

While many young people follow the route oftaking A-levels followed by a degreeprogramme at university, this can ignore manyof the more vocational opportunities which areavailable to young people, and does not alwaysallow young people to consider the broadestpossible range of careers which might be opento them.Many job opportunities for youngpeople exist for which they require specialisttraining. This can be achieved via “on the job”programmes or apprenticeships and can openup a new world of possibilities.

The value of vocational training and thedevelopment of work-based skills are oftenoverlooked by parents, teachers and youngpeople but in reality, vocational training insectors such as engineering and manufacturingcan lead to university placements and providethe basis for long term, successful careers.

Heather Lloyd, a mother of two fromStaffordshire, understands the importance ofvocational training.Heather and her husbandboth took up the opportunity to develop work-based skills and themselves learned “on the

Parents and Young People invitedto explore Vocational Careers

job”. As a result they now both have successfulcareers in pharmacy and mechanicalengineering respectively and Heather is keenthat her two children also understand thebenefits of developing work-based skills.

She recently took her 16 year old daughter toThe Skills Show at the NEC Birmingham to findout more about different careers and to enableher daughter to gain first-hand experience of anumber of different skills. Heather was keen toprovide her daughter with as much careersupport as she could during such a vitallyimportant time in her life.

stimulating and financially rewarding, and theopportunities are there for young people totake.It is our role, and that of parents, to ensurethat today’s young people are fully informed sothat they can make choices that they can reapthe benefits from in years to come.

“Talking to those who visited the show, 90% ofthose who attended enjoyed it, and a highproportion would recommend visiting to afriend (94% of adults and 85% of youngpeople). The most encouraging figure is thattwo thirds of attendees said that the Showhelped to improve their knowledge ofvocational training, and more than 70% of theyoung people visiting said that it had madethem more interested in pursuing a vocationalcourse or career.These figures confirm that TheSkills Show has a crucial role to play in changingperceptions and bringing skills to life for youngpeople seeking a career.”

The Skills Show, held at the NEC in Birminghamin November 2012, welcomed more than70,000 young people and aimed to inspirevisitors by bringing skills to life and changingthe way they think about skills, training andapprenticeships.For more information, pleasevisit www.theskillsshow.com.

Heather says: “I think it’s really important thatchildren are aware of the alternative routes intojobs, as well as the wealth of different rolesavailable to them. My daughter is a highachiever at school therefore many peopleautomatically think she will go to go touniversity but I wanted to show her that shehad other options that could also lead to arewarding career. In my experience, employersvalue those with a good work ethic and someexperience, and training in the workplace canprovide a great grounding for a worthwhilecareer.In my opinion training “on the job” ortaking up an apprenticeship which enables youto “earn while you learn” is ideal because youget the best of both worlds.”

David Cragg, Deputy Chair of The Skills Show,says: “It is crucial that we open the eyes ofparents and young people to the breadth ofcareers available and the value of education andvocational training. A focus of The Skills Showwas to give young people and their parents areal experience of careers, rather than offeringjust traditional careers guidance. In this wayyoung people could be properly informed of allthe options open to them, and it enabled thoseattending to match their future training andskills to the vacancies available tothem.Vocational careers are mentally

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Shopping for a NewbornWhether this is your firstchild or you are adding toyour brood, shopping for anew baby is exciting and itis easy to go OTT. Beforeyou go shopping make a listof the things that you willdefinitely need, as well asoptional extras.Once you have completed your checklist it’sworth comparing prices on some of thenursery equipment websites. It’s a good ideato check out items on your list both onlineand at your local nursery shop. Specialiststores have will have advisors who will beable to inform you of the benefits ofdifferent products and help you select theones that are right for you.

Before you buy, take time to talk to friendsthat have recently had a baby. They willhave tried some of the items on yourchecklist and can give you an honestopinion about quality, convenience, whatthey found useful and what was a waste ofmoney.

You don’t need everything straight away,but you will need

� A cot and mattress, plus sheets andblankets that can be added or takenaway according to temperature changes.(Pillows, duvets, quilts or fleeces are notrecommended for babies under one yearold).

� If you have a car or you will need a carseat.

� A Pram, pushchair or travel system

� Enough nappies - either disposable orreusable. In the early weeks babies getthrough six to eight nappies a day!

� Changing mat, toiletries and wipes forbath and changing time.

� Feeding equipment – if you're bottle-feeding you'll need bottles, formula andsterilising equipment. If you'rebreastfeeding and plan to express milk,you'll need bottles and teats, and abreast pump, plus nursing bras andbreast pads.

� Loads of bibs

� Plenty of towels and flannels for bathtime and muslin squares for dribbles!

� Clothes – cotton sleepsuits, vests, hat,mittens, bootees, cardigans, shawls andsuitable outdoor clothing for when theweather is cold.

Handy things to have include –

� Baby thermometer � Moses basket/ crib (plus mattress,

sheets and blankets) � Baby bath � Baby box or bag � Sling � Bouncy chair � Baby monitor � Changing bag � Steam steriliser � Bath thermometer � Baby brush and comb set � Nappy wrapper

When you are making your checklistremember; all babies need are their basicneeds met – to eat, be kept safe, clean andwarm, and to be loved. If you meet thesebasic requirements, you've got it coveredfrom the start.

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Award winning Cheeky Wipes,are leading a bottom cleaningrevolution for DISPOSABLE orWASHABLE nappy users andjust ONE wipe will do for anumber TWO!

No more chuckingendless baby wipes inthe bin, Cheeky Wipesare cost effective andenvironmentally

friendly. Free from harshchemicals, Cheeky Wipes

are also gentle on baby’s bottom makingthem a real alternative to disposable wipes,especially for sensitive skin and eczema.

What’s more, they are convenient too!Cheeky Wipes can be used when out andabout with baby – which is great news for

Cheeky wipes – Making aBum Job Better!

busy parents. Use the special out and aboutwaterproof travel bags, just pop some cleandamp baby wipes in a bag and off you go!Got a mess? Drop the soiled baby wipes inthe mesh insert in the Mucky Baby WipesWaterproof Bag until you get home.

The clever all-in-one kit means that no extrawash loads, dirty baby wipes can go straightinto the washing machine with a normal

wash load and your clean baby wipes comestraight out the washing machine and backinto the Fresh Baby Wipes Container – nodrying required! Could it get any easier?

If you want an excellent product that is kindon baby’s bottom and the planet, CheekyWipes really are the business! The full kit ispriced at £39.95 and is available fromwww.cheekywipes.com.

And, for poo-squeamishparents, Cheeky Wipeshave recentlylaunched a 'Hands &faces' kit priced at£26.95, perfect forusing after messy mealtimes!

Bibbles are functional, attractive and great for teething babies anddribbly toddlers. Designed and lovingly manufactured in Nottingham, UK.

Bibbles are made with a quality soft cotton top fabric to absorb wetness and a soft fleeceunder layer to act as a barrier, preventing clothing and baby’s chin from becoming

wet and uncomfortable. Adjustable nickel free press-studs means it’s a comfy fit andbeing machine washable, your Bibble will last for years!

Bibbles come in a continually changing range of colours and designs to suit everytaste and will enhance any outfit, ideal for the modern mum and baby of today.We don’t use any fancy packaging as we like to pass on the saving to ourCustomers so you can save money and help the environment.

Also available in 3 larger sizes for older children and adults

Bibbles Nappy Cakes are a unique gift with the wow factor. Madeexclusively with Bibbles Bandana Bibs.

www.bandana-bibs.co.ukFREE DELIVERY ON YOUR NEXT ORDER — Enter MYFAMILY at the checkout

My Family 13 b 26/1/13 19:49 Page 33

Breastfeeding in the workplaceA new survey revealed thatone third of mothers arereturning to work earlierthan expected because ofthe current economicclimate. Committed tosupporting working mumsMedela, the world leadingbreastpump provider, andbabyworld.co.uk conductedthe report to learn moreabout the current opinionson maternity leave andwhat provisionsemployers put inplace to supportworking mothers.Despite the fact thatmothers are going back towork earlier, 67% of themsaid their employersoffered them nogeneral advice or

guidance on their return. Readjusting to lifein the work place following maternity leavecan be a very challenging time with onemother explaining she was so worried aboutleaving her daughter that she “feltphysically sick.”

The report highlighted that on the wholeretuning to work was a stressful experience,but it seemed to be particularly hard forthose who were still breastfeeding. Thirtypercent of mothers who took part in thesurvey were still breastfeeding when theyreturned to work. Worryingly, 50% of themums who were still feeding said their

biggest struggle was the fact therewas nowhere they could go to

express milk.

One participant said:

“I really dreaded it and gave upbreastfeeding the first time as thestress of going back to work andexpressing was too much.”

Setting up a breastfeeding room is a simplechange businesses can make to support newmums. A special place where mums can goand express milk privately will reassuremany that they are making the rightdecision about returning, and will prove thatthe company values its staff and placesgreat importance on supporting mums whowant to breastfeed.

Some mothers may want to express,whereas others may prefer to take shortbreaks throughout the day to feed theirbaby. Providing flexible working hours andtaking the time to really discuss all the

options available is something allemployers should do as standard.

Some businesses are certainlyleading the way by going the extramile, for example one mum said:

“I had an afternoon break togo to the nursery and feed myson which continued for acouple of months which was agentle introduction back towork.”

Commenting on the surveyManaging Director of Medela UKPaul Furlong said:

“This news should be a greatconcern for employers, especially

in the current climate when it’sdifficult to hold onto valuedemployees. Organisationsreally should be doing

everything they can to supportmums. We’ve all heard of Babiesin the Office, but a dedicatedexpressing room is something fareasier to implement. It’s a greatfirst step for businesses and willreally mark them apart.”

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The Holo® is aninflatable airbed witha hole in the middle,developed for use inpregnancy to enablewomen to lie on theirtummies.

Holo® Pregnancy Comfort

professionals are realising thatlying on your tummy is not justan essential part of getting yourbaby into optimal position forbirth, but quite often is a way ofrelieving aches and pains in thepelvis, and allows totalrelaxation, which in the build-upto birth is often hard to achieve.

The Holo® has revolutionisedtummy lying in pregnancy!

Midwives, osteopaths, yogateachers, physiotherapists,obstetricians, who have seen the

Holo® approve of its use andare amazed nothing like this hasbeen developed before.

“ We use it with nearlyevery pregnant patientnow. For healthcareprofessionals, finding acomfortable position totreat pregnant women incan be difficult. TheHolo® solves thatproblem easily. We canmore effectively assessback pain and pelvicpain when they are ontheir fronts. We love itand recommend otherclinics give it a try.”Peter Mulvey, Prophysiotherapy, London,MSc MMACP MCSP

The Holo® can be used at anystage of pregnancy, from themoment it becomes impossibleto lie on your tummy, right up

until the birth. One size reallyfits all!

Not just for holidays, it’s idealfor pregnant or sensitivetummies to use on land orwater, to lie on your front forrelaxation, massage andsunbathing.

If you are finding it hard to sleepor if you just want to watch telly,have a quick catnap, or read abook lying on your tummy likeyou used to do, then the Holo®

is the answer.

www.holo-lilo.com

Before now, it has always beenassumed that once your bellygets too big, front lying is justone of those things you have toaccept that you can’t do. This isno longer the case! Many

New Year, New Choices . . .

they’ll makefor the world,their pocketand their littleone’s bottom(plus they look supercool too!)

RRP: Starting from £8.99Stockists: www.totbots.com

The BabaSling® Organic is agreat solution for parents wantingto ‘wear’ their baby or toddler.Little ones can be carried in fivedifferent ways from birth to twoyears; Mum can breastfeeddiscreetly in the early stages andDad can enjoy some qualitybonding time. Made from 100%

Considering newborns spend themajority of their time sleeping,choosing a mattress for the littleones is a very important decision.

The Little Green Sheep hasspecialised in making the highestquality natural and organic babymattresses that are entirelychemical-free and safe for babies.

RRP: from £145 Stockists:www.thelittlegreensheep.com

With a new baby arriving,shopping choices become all themore important and with such ahuge market out there, it canbecome mind boggling. However,the arrival of a little one presentsthe perfect opportunity to startmaking some choices that will notonly make you feel good, but arealso great for your baby and theplanet!

TotsBots, the UK’s leadingreusable nappy brand arepassionate about the importanceof using reusable nappies andencourage parents to make theswitch as it will be the best choice

As consumers, we arealways encouraged to makegreen choices, but althoughour intentions are good,we don’t always quite getaround to it and often optfor a more convenient orcheaper option.

organic cotton, it’s a great choicefor parents who want an eco-friendly sling. Even better they’vejust released two brand newcolours for 2013 – Pebble andBerry so you’ll look super smarttoo.

RRP: £44.99Stockist: www.thebabasling.com

My Family 13 b 26/1/13 19:49 Page 35

Family Fun in BritainFamily holidays are a magicaltime but it can sometimes be alittle tricky to find somethingthat will keep everyone happy.But take a break in Britain andyou will find something for all– from heritage and culture tomusic and stunning country-side, Britain has plenty toinspire all ages.

Explore the rugged coastlines and beautifulbeaches of Cornwall, situated at the South-Western tip of England, or Wales where themore adventurous in the family may like toget out and experience the wide array ofwatersports that can be found along thecoast. Surfing, coasteering, stand uppaddleboarding, and sea kayaking can all beeasily found and enjoyed. Don’t worry ifyou don’t know one end of a surfboardfrom another – places such as the CornwallSurf Academy or the Gower SurfSchool (which runs at Gower beach inSwansea, Wales, and Newquay in Cornwall)can teach at all levels.

If perhaps you prefer to stay on dry land foryour adrenalin filled activities then don’tworry – climbing, mountain biking andarchery are just some of the experiencesthat can be enjoyed in England’s beautifulLake District or for some tree topadventures head to one of the Go Apelocations that are situated in forests aroundthe UK – swing like tarzan across thetreetops before zip-lining back down toearth.

Britain has been home to some of the greatsin children’s literature, as a visit to SevenStories in Newcastle (North East England)will show you, it is the only exhibition spacein the UK dedicated to the celebration ofBritish children's literature. Visit the Worldof Beatrix Potter in the Lake Districtwhere her timeless stories about PeterRabbit and his friends are brought to life, orthe Roald Dahl Museum and StoryCentre in Great Missenden – only 45minutes from London – the village wherethe great author lived and wrote. One ofRoald Dahl’s most loved stories, Charlieand the Chocolate Factory, is set to

open as a musical in London’s Theatre Royalin June 2013 following on from theresounding success of Matilda themusical another Roald Dahl classic whichopened in London’s West End in 2012.

The imagination of JK Rowling gave HarryPotter to the world and adults and childrenalike will be enchanted by the WarnerBrothers Studio Tour where you canwalk down Diagon Alley and sit in the GreatHall in Hogwarts while learning the secretsbehind the films. The Studio is less than anhour away from London.

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HOLIDAYS & LEISURE

Britain has centuries of history to exploreand there are plenty of museums andattractions up and down the countryhelping to bring it to life. Visit Jorvik agroundbreaking visitor experience thatenables you to experience life in Viking-AgeYork or visit one of the many NationalTrust properties where you can step intothe past with some dressing up, try climbinga chimney or re-enact a great battle inruined castle. For a more hands-on scienceexperience, head to At-Bristol or theGlasgow Science Centre in the Scottishcity, where hundreds of hands-onexperiments will give you hours of fun.

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Nestling in the charming southNorfolk countryside, amongst rollingfarmland and hidden waterways,Wheatacre Hall Barns can be found.

The attractive cluster of eight barns on theBurroughs family working dairy and arable farm,have been tastefully restored retaining many oftheir original features to create luxury, self-cateringaccommodation, for couples and families alike.

All Wheatacre Hall Barns have stylish andcomfortable interiors equipped with contemporarymodern touches, internet access, LCD TV,DVD/Video, CD/Radio, ipod docking stations,microwave, dishwasher, fridge, freezer andautomatic washing machine. Each barn boasts itsown private garden and furnished patio area withbarbecue, where guests can relax and unwindwhile enjoying the tranquillity of the countryside.

For the more energetic members of the familythere is a games room, fitness barn and theextensive grounds offer plenty of grassy areas forfootball and other outdoor games. Not forgettingthe youngest family members, the play barn is sureto keep under 5’s amused when they are notvisiting the animals on the farm.

The Wheatacre site has extensive river frontagewith access to a network of walks varying in lengthamid the picturesque landscape. Fishing isavailable along the river and an abundance ofbirdlife is easily accessible for enthusiasts.

Norfolk and Suffolk food produce deservedly has agreat reputation, those who fancy eating out canvisit one of the quality, local pubs or restaurants.Further afield the fine medieval city of Norwich hasa magnificent cathedral, castle with museum,cinemas, theatre, high street stores, designerbrands, independent shops and a covered market,offering the perfect opportunity to combine a spotof retail therapy with a little sightseeing.

Luxurious Rural Accommodation Down on the Farm

For information and availability, visit

www.wheatacrehallbarns.co.ukor telephone 01502 677208.

Set in the quaint and picturesque conservation villageof Egleton in Rutland, St Monica's Cottage providesluxury, well-equipped self-catering accommodation forup to six people. The predominantly stone built, singlestorey, thatched cottage is ideal for families wanting areal home-from-home feel.

Quietly nestling in England’s smallestcounty, the welcoming and recentlyrenovated cottage overlooks scenicfarmland to the rear, beyond which isthe well-known Rutland Water.

This peaceful retreat is perfect forguests who just want to relax, unwind,and enjoy a taste of traditionalEngland.

For those who like to get out andabout there is plenty to do – cycling,sailing, walking, fishing, bird watchingand windsurfing are all available toenjoy locally.

Easily accessible by car or train, itslocation is perfect for those wanting toexplore an array of unspoilt villages,attractive market towns, and thebeautiful countryside of Rutland andbeyond.

In an area surrounded by breath-taking scenery, this dreamy littlecottage is wonderful for newlywedsand those getting married atNormanton Church, Rutland Water,which is known for its stunning waterfront location for civil ceremonies.

St Monica’s Cottage

Telephone: +44 (0) 7771 610668 or +44 (0) 1572 722749

email info@rutlandholidaycottage.co.uk or visit

www.holidaylettings.co.uk/95665Follow us on Twitter – @rutlandcottage

Find us on Facebook – Rutland Holiday Cottage

Normanton Church,Rutland Water

My Family 13 b 26/1/13 19:49 Page 37

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HOLIDAYS & LEISURE

Fen Farm Caravan and Camping Siteis ideal for people looking for a quiet familyretreat. Situated just off the Essex coastline,approximately 10 miles from Colchester,you will find the unique and largelyundiscovered holiday haven, MerseaIsland. One of Britain’s best-kept secrets,this tiny island is just five miles by two milesand has twelve miles of coastline.

Owned by the Lord family since 1918, FenFarm Campsite is located in the southeastof the island. In a tranquil, rural setting, thissmall yet well-appointed campsite offers itsguests a warm and friendly welcome.

The site caters for tents, trailer tents,touring caravans and motor homes of anysize and has well maintained laundryfacility, toilet and shower block with solarpowered water heating, separatewheelchair accessible toilets and showers,hair driers and razor points, 10 amp electrichook up and chemical disposal unit. Whatmore could you need!

A haven for local wildlife, the proximity ofthe Essex marshes gives a unique tranquilatmosphere and the abundance wildlifeadds to the ambience.

For more information about Fen Farm Campsite visit www.fenfarm.co.uk or call 01206 383275

Cudmore Grove Country Park is very close by and the renowned Fingringhoe Wicknature reserve is just 6 miles away. Abberton Reservoir with its abundance ofwater birds is also well worth the 10 minute drive.

Offering something for family members of all ages Fen Farm is within walkingdistance of a wonderful south facing beach, The ‘Dog and Pheasant’ public houseis a few minutes walk, and a little further away is the the ‘Pick Your Own’ fruit,flower and vegetable farm.

Kids can enjoy themselves without having to switch anything on or boot up! Thereare play areas with swings, seesaws and climbing frames, plus plenty of wide openspace for ball games, flying kites or just walking the dog. In addition to thischildren enjoy ‘crabbing’ in the creeks, playing on the beach or in the sea.

A continuing commitment to protect the environment has resulted in Fen FarmCampsite receiving the David Bellamy Conservation Gold Award annuallysince 1999.

Beautiful Self-CateringCottages in Cornwall

Fox Valley Cottagesat Lanlawren (thismeans valley of thefoxes) is the perfectplace for a holiday inCornwall. Be it lazingon the quiet sandybeaches, strolling around the picturesque littlefishing ports of Looe and Polperro, enjoying thestunning coastal footpath walks or simply enjoy-ing the peace and tranquillity of Fox Valley.

Hidden in the valleysurrounded by beautifulCornish countryside, FoxValley Cottages are a greatplace to relax and unwind inour indoor heated pool, spaor sauna. Our beautifulgarden has sun loungers andgarden furniture as well as

BBQ’s for those evenings where you fancy cooking alfresco.

It’s the ideal place for families to let their hair down, with plenty ofspace for children to run around and explore. There’s a puttinggreen, trampoline, slide and swings, games room and ride on toysfor the toddlers. The kids willlove helping Andy to feedthe chickens, ducks, rabbitsand guinea pigs.

Our cottages andapartments are comfortablyfurnished, well equippedand within easy reach ofCornish attractions such asThe Eden Project, LostGardens of Heligan, andBodmin & Wenford Railway.Alternatively, you can spendyour time on horseback,playing golf, fishing orcycling and thrill seekers canjump off a cliff on the UK’s biggest fastest, longest zip wire, fly ahovercraft or go go-karting.

Family pets are welcome so you don’t need to worry about leavinganyone behind!

Telephone: 01726 870115email: foxvalleycottages@btconnect.com

www.foxvalleycottages.co.uk

My Family 13 b 26/1/13 19:49 Page 38

Blackthorn Gate Luxury HolidayLodges are ideal for environmentallyconscious couples and families alike.Set in 230 acres of open farmlandon the border of North Yorkshire andthe Tees Valley, Blackthorn Gatecomprises of four eco-friendly pinelodges constructed using timberfrom sustainable forests in the farnorth of Sweden.

Owners Mike and Rita Corrigan have always hada keen interest in nature, wildlife and the greatoutdoors. They have created a haven oftranquillity for their guests to enjoy and makeevery effort to ensure that their business respectsthe conservation of the area.

For more information includingup-to-date availability telephone

01642 324496, emailinfo@blackthorngate.co.uk or visit

www.blackthorngate.co.uk

Blackthorn Gate currently holds theGreen Tourism Silver Award andcome highly recommended by MyFamily, receiving the magazine’s‘Eco Friendly Accommodationaward for 2012’ in recognition oftheir work to provide environmentally friendlyaccommodation for their guests.

The spacious and airy lodges offer excellent self-catering facilities with fully fitted kitchen, acomfortable living room with a dining area,master bedroom with en-suite shower room,separate bathroom and a sauna. Sleeping up tofive people, two storey lodges ‘Skylark’ and‘Lapwing’ also have a large wet room showerarea suitable for wheelchair users – single storey‘Curlew’ and ‘Chaffinch’ sleep up to four people.

All lodges have fabulous views of RoseberryTopping and guests at Blackthorn Gate don’thave to travel far to enjoy the rugged beauty ofthe area. For wide horizons and see-for-milesviews, the summit of Roseberry Topping is in aclass of its own. Layers of human and geologicalhistory have shaped this distinctive and iconiclandmark, with its bluebell woods and heathermoorland. Towering over the landscape, itguarantees a memorable walk, with breath-taking sights from the top.

Blackthorn Gate’s location offers the opportunityfor guests to delve into the areas rich history, visitstately homes and gardens or enjoy picturesquetowns and villages.You can even fit in some retailtherapy – shopping in York or The Metro Centreis less than an hour away.

Alternatively, simply enjoy a day spentwandering around the farm – looking out forwildlife including deer, otters, stoats, hares andowls. There are five wildlife ponds and threefishing ponds for guests and family. After a busyday, you can relax in your private sauna, playpool or table tennis in the games room, or justunwind on your veranda with a drink and a biteto eat.

Environmentally Friendly Luxury at

Blackthorn Gate

HOLIDAYS & LEISURE

Whether you want to relax, exercise, have anadventure, explore the landscape, experiencenature or go shopping you’ll be spoilt for choice!

READER OFFERCompliments of Rita and Mike, you willreceive a bottle of wine upon arrival atBlackthorn Gate by quoting MyFamily13when booking.

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My Family 13 b 26/1/13 19:51 Page 39

01720 422200www.holidayonscilly.co.uk

relax@islesofscillyholidays.co.ukCall us or visit the website for the

latest deals and availability

Isles Scillyof

inclusive holidays

Long and short inclusive breaks on the beautiful Isles of Scilly

Y3586

AN AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY,the Isles of Scilly are situated in the Atlantic Ocean just 28 miles off the Cornish peninsula and offer the perfect getaway. A spectacular and welcoming oasis in the farthest west reach of the UK.

Rich in archaeological sites, rare bird species, stunning white-sand beaches; these beautiful Isles form an archipelago of five inhabited islands surrounded by over a hundred rocky islets. Their unique position gives rise to a contrasting landscape ranging from the surprising, lush sub-tropical gardens on Tresco to the granite and heather-topped ridge of St Martins. The climate here is one of the mildest and warmest in the UK and offers the perfect haven for the varied and abundant wildlife and flora it attracts.

With award-winning cuisine and a great range of cosy accommodation, as well as exciting outdoor sports and pursuits, these Isles delight at every turn... and offer the perfect holiday destination for families, couples and the lone traveller alike.

Visitors come from both the UK and worldwide and return year on year - it’s a stone’s throw from Land’s End and easy to get here by boat or plane from the mainland.

we are a local agent with Atol & Abta bonding

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40 myfamily

HOLIDAYS & LEISURE

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HOLIDAYS & LEISURE

Child-friendly festivals in BritainFestivals and fun events are no longer the domain ofthe grown-up. Across Britain and throughout the yearthere is a wide selection of festivals and events thathave been created with kids in mind. Cue smilingfaces all round…

Imagine Festival11-24 February 2013, Southbank Centre,Londonwww.southbankcentre.co.uk/imagine

For two weeks in February, more than 100free and ticketed events will run for childrenat one of London’s leading arts venue, theSouthbank Centre. Kids can enjoy gamesand trails to follow throughout the wholecentre and activities are tailored towards allages; think opera for babies to vampire-themed Valentine’s Day celebrations for

teens. Further highlights include children’s theatre, animated films,readings from top children’s authors and a chance to get close to life-size dinosaur puppets.

Cardiff Children’s Literature Festival20-24 March 2013, Cardiff, Waleswww.cardiffchildrenslitfest.com

Some of the UK’s best contemporary children’s authors and illustratorswill gather for the inaugural Cardiff Children’s Literature Festival. One ofthe first popular authors to confirm attendance is Jacqueline Wilson,who penned The Story of Tracy Beaker, Lola Rose and JackyDaydream, among many others.

The festival encourages children to ‘come and meet singing mermaids,daring dragons, Groovy Greeks, cuddly bears and many more wonderfulcharacters.’ Budding authors and illustrators will also get the chance toshow their hand at writing and drawing.

Kew Easter Egg Hunt29 March-14 April 2013, Kew Gardens, Londonwww.kew.org/events

Chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate– what better way to celebrate Easterthan to let the children loose on theEaster Egg Hunt at Kew Gardens, wherecollecting tokens around the site will leadto a delicious chocolate treat from theEaster Bunny himself. Kids will discoverwhere chocolate comes from on theGardens’ chocolate-themed trail,chocolate workshops and arts and craftsactivities during the Easter holidays.

Camp Bestival1-4 August 2013, Lulworth Castle, Dorset, south Englandwww.campbestival.net

A perennial family favourite, Camp Bestival at Lulworth Castle in Dorset– just over an hour from the coastal town of Southampton and itsinternational airport – is big on kids entertainment. As well as plenty ofspace for little ones to run around there are a multitude of activities,shows, theatre workshops, bouncy castles as well as separate Toddlers’Area. Elsewhere, the Lower Kids Garden offers entertainment for older

siblings; previous festivals have welcomed the English National Balletand the Insect Circus and Museum.

Just So Festival16-18 August 2013, Rode Hall Parkland, Cheshire, north-west Englandwww.justsofestival.org.uk

Less than an hour south ofManchester the Just So Festival inCheshire has been designed forfamilies with small children. Set inthe Grade II-listed park andgardens of the beautiful statelyhome Rode Hall, previous festivalshave featured activities rangingfrom jive dancing lessons tobedtime stories in the 40 Winkstent. Baby facilities include a dedicated baby changing tent, withchanging mats, nappies and wipes, plus there is baby feeding boudoir,electricity points for bottle warmers and sterilisers and baby bathtime isheld in a special tent of baby baths, warm water and bubbles.

Roald Dahl Day13 September 2013, UK-widewww.roalddahlday.com

Whizzpopping, scrumdiddlyumptious celebrations can take place on 13September each year in honour of legendary children’s author RoaldDahl’s birthday. Celebrate with a trip to see either Matilda TheMusical or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory The Musical(previews from 18 May) – based on his famous novels – in London’sWest End. Or visit Great Missenden in Buckinghamshire – an hournorth-west of London – home to The Roald Dahl Museum, or theRoald Dahl Children’s Gallery in nearby Aylesbury.

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

It may be cold outside but winterneedn't be the unhealthiest time ofyear for you and your family. Here are five ways to make sure that even when your body is telling youto hibernate you can keep healthy and fit, no matter what the weather'slike:

1 SleepOn average we sleep six-and-a-half hours a night, much less than theseven to nine hours recommended. It’s perfectly natural to adopthibernating habits when the weather turns cold, so use the time tocatch up.

2 Drink more milkOur bodies need protein to workproperly and to grow or repair

themselves. Calcium helps to keepour bones strong. Milk and dairy

products are great sources ofprotein and vitamins A and B12.They're also an important sourceof calcium, which helps keep ourbones strong. Choose lower-fatdairy foods where possible,because these are healthierchoices.

Winter Health3 Eat more fruit and vegIn winter it can be tempting to fill up on unhealthy comfort food, but it’simportant to ensure that you still keep your diet healthy and include fiveportions of fruit and veg a day. If you find yourself craving a sugarytreat, try a juicy clementine or satsuma instead, or sweet dried fruitssuch as dates or raisins. Winter vegetables such as carrots, parsnips,swede and turnips can be roasted, mashed or made into soup for acomforting winter meal.

4 Stay activeDon’t stay in and lounge around, instead, get out with the whole familyto try out a new activity or take a bracing winter walk. Regular exercisehelps to control your weight, boost your immune system and is a goodway to break the tension that can build if the family is constantly coopedup inside the house.

5 Have a hearty breakfastWinter is the perfect season for porridge. Eating a warm bowlful on acold morning is a delicious way to start your day, it also helps you toboost your intake of starchy foods and fibre, which give you energy andhelps you to feel fuller for longer. Oats also contain lots of vital vitaminsand minerals.

Slimathome

Buyour rangeofweightmanagmentAcai Berry productswww.fabulousbodydiet.com

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UNDERSTANDING AUTISM

Hillingdon ManorThe largest school for children with autism, in the UK & Europe

Specialist independent day education for children aged between 3 and 19.

The following open mornings are planned for parents and carers wishingto find out more about Hillingdon Manor school:

Yiewsley Grange (Lower School)Tuesday 15th January 2013 at 10:30 • Tuesday 27th February 2013 at 10:30Tuesday 16th April 2013 at 10:30Tel: 01895 420315 for further information

The Manor (Upper School)Thursday 16th January 2013 at 11:00 • Thursday 28th February 2013 at 11:00Thursday 18th April 2013 at 11:00Tel: 01895 813679 for further information

Local Authority referrals accepted. • Access to the National Curriculum.

For more information about admissions, open days and events, visitwww.hillingdonmanorschool.org.uk or contact the Head Teacher,Akinyi Dulo on 01895 813679

There are over 500,000 peoplewith autism in the UK – that's 1in 100. Together with theirfamilies that's over two millionpeople whose lives are touchedby autism every single day.

What is Autism?Autism is a lifelong developmental disabilitythat affects how a person communicateswith, and relates to other people. It alsoaffects how they make sense of the worldaround them.

It is a spectrum condition, which means thatwhile all people with autism share certaindifficulties, their condition will affect them indifferent ways.

Some people with autism are able to liverelatively independent lives but others mayhave accompanying learning disabilities andneed a lifetime of specialist support. Peoplewith autism may also experience over or

under-sensitivity to sounds, touch, tastes,smells, light or colours. Asperger syndromeis a form of autism.

What causes Autism?The causes of autism are still beinginvestigated. Many experts believe that thepattern of behaviour from which autism isdiagnosed may not result from asingle cause. There is strongevidence to suggest that autismcan be caused by a variety ofphysical factors, all of which affectbrain development – it is not due toemotional deprivation or the way aperson has been brought up.

What can be done?Much can be achieved to make life lesschallenging with appropriate education andsupport. It is crucial that there are services inplace to meet the needs of people withautism in the UK today.

Understanding Autism

For more informationabout autism support visit:

www.annakennedyonline.comannakonline.com

www.autism.org.uk

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UNDERSTANDING AUTISM

Step in the Right Direction Autism Dance Day Anna Kennedy Online would liketo invite you to dance forAutism on 26th April 2013.Step in the Right DirectionAutism Dance Day bringstogether large numbers ofspecial needs and mainstreamschools to organise danceevents to raise funds for Autism.

This is a great way of publicising our causeand showing off your event to your family,friends and the nation.

Obviously the choice of autism charity yousupport is an individual one but we hopeyou’ll get behind this fun initiative and raisefunds for autism. Here are a few examplesof how we are improving the lives of thosewith autism right now.

� Speaking engagements andpresentations about autism across the UK

� Funding specialist reports for childrenand adults with autism

� Providing free legal advice to familieswhose children live with autism

� Donating domestic items, educationalresources and sensory toys to familieswith limited funds

� A market stall for adults to work on andgain new skills and work experience

� Promoting Autism’s Got Talent

� Working with a range of partners on theanti- bullying campaign

really capture the imagination of childrenwith Autism, their parents, carers, friendsand family.

Anyone can join in this fun event to raisemoney for this great cause – to registersimply visitwww.annakennedyonline.com or emaillisa.robins@thevines.org.uk

We would also like to share the fun byinviting you to upload pictures or video ofyour event, onto our special facebook pagewww.facebook.com/pages/Step-in-the-right-Direction/279466905419220.

We all know the positive benefits of dancefor those with Autism and this has beendemonstrated in the DVD Step in the right

Direction. So wethought we wouldtake one step furtherand ask you to join ina nationwide dancefestival to raise fundsfor Autism. It’s easyto organise –someone brings themusic and the

invitees provide the moves – and if we allget behind the occasion we think it will

Baston House School • BromleySpecialist independent day facility for children diagnosed with autism aged between 5 & 16 years

� A centre of excellence in education and development.� Local Authority referrals welcome� Admissions now being taken for Primary and Secondary

School

The following open mornings are planned for parents andcarers wishing to find out more about Baston House School

February 26th 2013 • March 21st 2013April 30th 2013

For admissions and information about upcoming eventscall 020 8462 1010 or visit

www.bastonhouseschool.org.uk

Baston House SchoolBaston Road • Hayes • Bromley • Kent BR2 7AB

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The vast majority of people withan autistic spectrum disorder, orindeed any other life-longdisorder, who have a high levelof support need obtain theservices they need via their localauthority.

Often this means that the person in receiptof services may have to make a contributiontowards service costs out of their benefitsand savings. Whilst this is what we havecome to expect, it is worth rememberingthat in the early 1980’s approximately halfthe people in receipt of services from theNHS were long term patients. These daysthe NHS doesn’t do long term care and this“care gap” has been mostly filled by socialservices.

This raises the question: is the above changein support provision is more than just aninteresting historical fact? The answer is yesbecause service provision by the NHS is onthe whole free of charge. So can a serviceuser simply ask the NHS to do the job socialservices is currently doing? The answer ispossibly yes. So what are the circumstanceswhen this can be done?

In the case of R v North and East DevonHealth Authority ex p Coughlan the

The NHS and ContinuingCare: An Introduction

Court of Appeal considered this matter andruled that is was when a persons health careneeds became so significant the entirety oftheir care needs became the responsibility ofthe NHS. Key to this decision was themeaning of s 21(8) National AssistanceAct 1948 which essentially says that wherea service could be provided by social servicesor the NHS, it should be provided by theNHS.

So where do people with non physicaldisabilities stand when it comes to NHSContinuing Care? As far as the NHS isconcerned, illness includes a ‘mentaldisorder’ hence anyone with autism,dementia etc are as much the responsibilityof the NHS as local authorities are. Inrecognition of this, the NHS has producedthe Decision Support Tool for NHSContinuing Healthcare which can be foundon the Department of Health’s websitethough should be said that this documenthas been the subject of criticism.

Anyone wishing to pursue the possibility ofNHS Continuing Healthcare may wishto look at the following cases:

n Ombudsman Case No: E.62/93-94– NHS criticised for placing too muchreliance on specialist care as a reason forwithdrawing support.

n Ombudsman Case E.420/00-01 –Comprehensive criticism of the NHS forfailing to properly assess a woman'seligibility for NHS-funded continuing

n Ombudsman Case E.22/02-03 “thePointon Case” – Care of lady withdementia at home not material tocontinuing health care.

n T & Ors, R (on the application of) vLondon Borough of Haringey[2005] EWHC 2235 – Care of agentleman at home with long termhealth condition should be provided bythe NHS.

To conclude, the possibility of continuingcare by the NHS should be considered byanyone involved with supporting someonewith a physical or mental disorder who haslong term care needs.

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UNDERSTANDING AUTISM

Sean KennedyLegal Advisor forAnna Kennedy Online

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The last year has proved to be an outstanding yearfor Autism Campaigner, Anna Kennedy. Shescooped a number of awards including My FamilyMagazine’s Business Mum of the Year, Daybreak’sDr Hillary Health Hero award and MumpreneurUK’s award for Best Interactive Service for autismcharity Anna Kennedy Online.com.

successful debut at the MermaidTheatre, and Anna received anOBE in the Queen’s BirthdayHonours List. Wow! What a Year!

Those who know Anna will knowthat the determined mum veryrarely pauses to take a breath! Infact, if you want to keep up, beprepared and grab your tap-shoes,as 2013 is destined to be just asexciting for the multi-talented tap-dancing mum, author, autismcampaigner and theatricalproducer.

Tesco Mum of theYear 2013

This year started with Annawinning the Tesco Mum of theYear Awards 2013. Over the pastfew months, people across the UKhave been nominating mums whoare unsung heroines, those thatraise money for charity or selflesslyhelp others despite having theirown challenges to overcome.

Out of 2,000 nominations, Annawas chosen as one of 6 winnerswho will attend a glitzy celeb-filledawards ceremony, be treated to agorgeous outfit, a goodie bag fullof treats, a free stay in London,and be truly recognised for all theamazing things they do.

A Sequel to ‘NotStupid’After the success of Anna’s firstbook, Not Stupid, a second book isdue in the summer. Readers willget an insight into her busy life asan autism campaigner, and familylife as a mum to two young adultswith autism.

“I want to give others help,advice and hope. When itcomes to being a parent to anautistic child, I know it can belonely, confusing and you feelyou’re in a constant battle, soI want to give back and tellother parents they aren’talone,” says Anna.

An Exciting Year Ahead forAnna Kennedy OBE

Her next book is a heart-warmingand inspiring update of life since‘Not Stupid’ and provides otherparents of children on thespectrum, with advice andguidance on coping with autism.

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UNDERSTANDING AUTISM

Anna was chosen for the once in alifetime opportunity to be a GamesMaker at both the 2012 Olympicand Paralympic Games. Herunique autism dance DVD ‘Step inthe Right Direction’ was endorsedby UNESCO and two new Patrons,James Hobley and Kathy Lettejoined her award winning autismcharity.

Baston House School – the secondschool founded by Annacelebrated its 1st Birthday,Autism’s Got Talent made a

Social NetworkingAnna’s reputation as a fightingforce in the autism community hasprompted great interest on socialmedia networks; over the nextyear she will promote discussionsamongst the autism communityand update over 50,000 followerswith the latest news from hercharity and campaigns. To find outmore follow @AnnaKennedy1 ontwitter or www.facebook.com/Annakennedyonline

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Autism’s Got Talent 2013 After a successful stage debut in 2012,Autism’s Got Talent 2013 will take to thestage for a second time at the MermaidTheatre, London On Saturday 11th May2013.

Anna Kennedy Online and PineapplePerforming Arts School will bring together adiverse group of people who are all on theAutistic Spectrum to show everyone just howtalented they are!

Tickets are now available fromlisa.robins@thevines.org.uk or call01895 619736

Autistic teens reach out toothers in their own way! My teacher looks like a bowling ball is aguide to everyday hurdles written by autisticteens for autistic teens. An honest andendearing guide to the everyday hurdlesmany autistic teensface, and advice onhow best tackle them.

Written by a group ofautistic students fortheir Young Enterpriseproject at HillingdonManor School, the aimis to help otherstudents who havefound themselves in tricky situations.

Co-Founder of Hillingdon Manor School,Anna Kennedy said “I have no hesitation inconfirming that this book is one of the schoolsgreatest achievements. It provides advicefrom the people who matter, namely theyoung pupils who are affected by AutismSpectrum Conditions. I am very proud of the

achievements of these pupils and lookforward to them making their mark in thisworld, starting with this book.”

The book was launched with great ceremonyand smiling faces all round as the local Mayor,Councillors, family and friends all joined theyoung writers to celebrate this wonderfulachievement.

The young authors who have contributed tothe book are Sam Francis, Andreas Lopes,Sam Burton, Shomari Nassor, Milo Rodgers,Leanne Middlemass and Justin Eseigbe.

Retail price £5 plus postage and packing – toorder your copy contactlisa.robins@thevines.org.uk

With Inclusion into mainstreameducation, employment andsociety on the increase, thedemand is higher than ever toraise awareness of autism.

Too many parents and families are introducedto autism through the diagnosis of a child orrelative but given no understanding of what‘autism’ is or what it will mean to the childand their family.

What is annakennedyonline.com doing tochange this?

Autism Awareness Trainingfor Everyone! This ‘Training Day’ is a great starting point foreveryone who wants to better understandAutism and the all the basics that surround it.

The team at Anna Kennedy Online use theiryears of experience, and knowledge fromtheir own family experiences and careenvironments to offer Autism AwarenessTraining for Everyone!

The one day sessionis designed to giveeveryone a good,solid, basicunderstanding ofAutism so they canbetter relate to andunderstand not onlythose on theAutistic Spectrumbut also thosesituations that can be presented with andaround Autism.

Families, relatives, those working ineducation, employers and anyone cominginto contact with autism, will learn about thebasics of autism including sensory issues, triadof impairment right through to challengingbehaviour.

For more information contact Training officer,Austin Hughesa.hughes@annakennedyonline.com

Latest news from

annakennedyonline.com

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UNDERSTANDING AUTISM

Jussi Jaaskelainen PlaysHost to Autistic Fans Hammers Goal Keeper, Jussi Jaaskelainenwelcomed a young group of visitors to theBoleyn Ground recently and ensured they hada great time visiting the home of West HamUnited. Anna and her fellow guests wentpitchside and sat in the home dugout beforereceiving a personal guided tour byJaaskelainen.

Joint-Chairman David Sullivan donated a five-figure sum to the charity earlier this year – apledge he made if Hammers won promotion.That money has helped the charity expandthe work that it does.

Jaaskelainen said "It was good to meeteveryone and to hear of the work Anna isdoing and everyone involved in the charity isfantastic. I wish them well and we lookforward to them being here at West Hamagain soon."

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