Spring 2013

R

Free!Spring 2013

All the local informationLiverpool parents really

need!

500 Freerecorders with

DawsonsLiverpool

Win a weekendin a cosyheated

WigWam!

Plus lots more competitionsand offers inside!

www.kidsdirectliverpool.com

Kids Direct Liverpool Education & Childcare Spring 2013

2

Best wishes,

Kids Direct Liverpool Editors Note Spring 2013

3To advertise in Kids Direct email: [email protected]

Yummy EasterRecipes (page 13)

Welcome to our Spring issue of KidsDirect Liverpool.We don’t know about you guys, but weare definitely ready for the warmer daysof spring and to be able to get outdoorsagain! See our section on great days outfor lots of outdoor family fun. We alsohave a lovely feature on Camping and agreat competition to win a weekend in acosy heated Wigwam!Dietician Claire Choudhary gives us somegreat tips on how to get our kids to eatvegetables. We also have 2 yummy Easterrecipes that are easy to make with thekids.We met with the children at KensingtonPrimary School who told us all about theirgreat new business venture - see how yourschool could benefit. (pg 6).Look out for our competitions for youand your family: A family ticket for 4 tosee Glam! The Performance of Style atTate Liverpool with a lunch for 4 atWhat's Cooking? (pg 26), a family off-peak ticket with the Yellow Duckmarine(pg 34), a family ticket for Citysightseeing Liverpool and our friends atDawsons are at it again … they have 500recorders to give away (pg 14). If all thatwasn’t enough, mention Kids Direct andget 10% off St John’s Beacon Tower, thehome of Radio City 96.7 (pg 31) and lookout for 5 free ride vouchers at SouthportPleasureland (pg 35).

Kids Direct is owned by Megan Kneale. Registered trademark no. 1468409. Kids Direct Liverpool is a franchise owned,operated & published under licence by Anna Taylor. We believe all information to be correct but do not endorse anyproducts or services. The views expressed in Kids Direct are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannotbe held responsible for any breach of copyright arising from artwork supplied by its contributors and clients.Reproduction, in whole or in part, of any of the text, illustrations or photography without the express permission of thepublisher is strictly forbidden. Competitions: Prize winners will be drawn at random, no cash alternatives will be offered.Personal information will not be shared with organisations external to Kids Direct unless a third party is issuing the prize.

We are back in the summer. In themeantime, come and join us on facebookand twitter for lots more offers, familyfriendly events and fun.

Have a fabulous Easter.

Win a familyweekend in a

Wigwam!(page 23)

Anna x

Munki has amessage for you to

take to DawsonsLiverpool Store

(page 14)

Meet the Kids inBusiness-

KensingtonPrimary ‘s Joga

Leaders. (page 6)



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Planning for a better future for you and your family is nevereasy by yourself. The path to achieving your goals isn't alwaysobvious. That's why you can find your own friendly expertadviser at Reed in Partnership.Whether you want to find a job, learn computer skills, take a

training course, get help with your housing or debt, or need support in any other way– Reed in Partnership can help.When Janet went to her local Reed in Partnership she was nervous, under-confidentand hadn't had a job in 27 years. After concentrating on her family for so long Janethad developed health problems and was struggling to make the most of life. She mether Adviser Lian and they clicked on day one. Lian helped Janet to complete twocourses and helped her improve her CV. Janet then decided to apply for a job at a localsupermarket. With the support of Lian she aced the interview and is over the moonwith her new job and her new confidence.She says: "If I could give anyone advice I would recommend you take up thisopportunity. What have you got to lose? Nothing… but you will have a lot to gain. Sogo on, be brave and give it a go!”Call Reed in Partnership today on 0151 559 1958 and find out how you can improveyour future.



Kidilates is a physio created, pilatesinspired movement and posturalprogramme designed for primary agedchildren.

The programme was created by ManagingDirector of The Physiotherapy CentreSarah Johnson. The Physiotherapy Centreis a leading provider of health care andinjury rehabilitation in the North West.Sarah reports “I was inspired to create aclass for children with a strong focus onposture and core strength, by the numberof adults who attend for treatment at theclinic with postural related problems.Although not all conditions are caused bybad posture, it certainly helps recoverywhen clients have good body awarenessand core strength. Good posture shouldbe encouraged at an early age. There are

more risks these days to developing badposture including increased use of mobiledevices and not forgetting the increasedand rising levels of obesity in childrentoday. It makes sense to teach movementwell from an early age.”

Kidilates is a fun class suitable for themajority of children, including childrendiagnosed with movement disorders. It issuitable for children looking to start gentleexercise, or children who already exerciseregularly but want to improve on aparticular sporting ability e.g. swimming.

If you would like to register your interestin the programme or sign your child up toKidilates sessions currently available inMossley Hill, please call 0151 724 2060 oremail [email protected]



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The children at Kensington Primary Schoolhave entered the Head for Businesscompetition run by Liverpool Vision,encouraging schools to create and run viablebusinesses whilst giving them the skills tobecome future entrepreneurs. The childrenon their ‘Head for Business’ team havedeveloped their existing play leaderprogramme into a business and have createdJOGA Leaders. The children say that JOGALeaders organise and run games andactivities in the playground, while at thesame time learning valuable life skills such ascompleting a CV and attending an interview,all part of the JOGA Leader recruitmentprocess. Their schools lunch hours arefilled with activities such as Dodgeball, StreetFootball and Cheerleading. Saqer Saleh andShahnoor Ali explained how JOGA Leaderscan help reduce the potential for bullyingand encourage children to get involved innew sports and activities. “I think because itschildren helping other children, that makes itcooler. All the children in our school look up

to JOGA Leaders because they know howhard we work and that we are always fairwhen dealing with problems” said Saqer.Fatoumata Faye spoke about the team’s ideato get JOGA Leaders recruited in otherschools. “We did a lot of research and foundthat children are spending less and less timeplaying outside of school. That’s why wethink playtimes in school are importantbecause that’s how children learn to get onwith each other.” Saqer Saleh added, “Wehope other schools will buy our product tohelp them make their playtimes better, andwe can then use that money to help childrenin schools in Brazil, which is where the nameJOGA comes from, and it means‘play’”.If you would like to introduce Joga Leaders toyour school, Please see their new website forlots more information and to buy theirfantastic leader packs which include T-Shirts,ID Cards, whistles, game cards, recruitmentpacks and a training pack.www.jogaleaders.com.



L18 Tuition offers private tuition andassessment services in 11+ EntranceExams, GCSE and A-Level Psychology,Degree level assignments andDissertations, and also offers Dyslexiaassessments and support services.L18 Tuition is based in the Calderstonesarea and operates from a purpose-builtcomfortable tuition room. L18 tuition ismanaged by Ange, an experiencedTeacher and University Lecturer with 12years of teaching experience acrossmainstream and special needs schoolsand the university sector. Ange is fullyCRB checked and takes a studentcentred approach in her tutoring. A busymum of 3, she knows how importantyour children's education is to you. Forfurther information call Ange on07834 491 975.

Business Chinese Solutions/MysticMonkey Chinese Education is currentlyin 28 schools across Liverpool, deliveringMandarin lessons, after school clubs,workshops and international programsas well as working closely with LiverpoolLocal Education Authority to providechildren in the North West with engagingChinese cultural experiences. Theirholiday camp provides exciting,interesting, educational & creativeactivities, making Chinese camp a greatoption for fun and cultural learning. Alltheir staff love China & Chinese and areexcited to share their interest andenthusiasm. All are welcome from 7-12years of age. For more information or tobook, call Toni on 07980 123948, visitwww.mysticmonkeyquest.co.uk, [email protected].



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HOMES NEEDED FOR FRENCH CHILDRENA group of French children 14 - 17 yrs arecoming to South Liverpool in July for a 13day visit to learn English.Groups will be arriving July 4�� – 17�� andJuly 18�� – 31��.Live and Learn Abroad are desperatelylooking for friendly families to welcome ayoung French girl or boy into their home.They still have students without homes.Have you a spare bed or beds in yourhome? Some students come over andwant to be the only student in the homebut many come and want to be hostedwith a friend.The students have all been learningEnglish for several years and are able tocommunicate effectively. The whole aimof the holiday is to improve their speakingof English and to allow them to experience

English Culture. The students are out atorganised activities all day Mon – Sat andare expected to join into family activitiesduring the evenings and one day of theweekend. All students have travel passesand will be able to get to and fromteaching locations after a little initial help.The majority of students will be havingtheir lessons at the I.M.Marsh campus,Barkhill Rd, Aigburth.This contact with a French teenager cangive them and your family, help withspeaking a foreign language, but can alsolead to lasting friendships.Each family will receive £182 hospitalityfee for the 13 nights per student.

Anyone who would like to help by hostinga French student please contact JennyRowland on 0151 336 1694 .

Kids Direct Liverpool Spring 2013


Education & Parties

Craft Creative Events offer inspiredcreative parties for kids aged 4 years anover in the North West and in Scotland.Their parties are bespoke and tailormade to suit your child’s passions andyour budget! They can also createamazing parties based around a theme.With popular themes includingPrincess Parties, Private Parties, LittleMonster Parties, Space Parties, DisneyParties, Peppa Pig, Hello Kitty and Legoparties to name just a few. They offer awhole host of services to help youcreate the perfect party for your child.They are happy to come you or providea venue. So, do tell them your partyneeds and they will deliver! Contactthem on 0151 203 2409 or email:[email protected] for theperfect creative party.

National Wildflower Centre BushcraftBirthday Parties! How about a party inthe Woods? Elves and Fairies; enter theenchanted woods to find out aboutfairies and elves. Bushcraft Party; Denmaking, fire lighting, even make a bowand arrow! For further details visitwww.myoutdoorclassroom.co.uk, oremail [email protected]

Kids Direct Liverpool Parties Spring 2013

10 www.kidsdirectliverpool.com

For lots of fun in a safe environment,where parents can relax whilst the kidssafely run wild visit Funtown. They offera wide range of indoor play activities forchildren from 0 - 12, with something foreveryone! There are fabulous slides, a ballpool, specially constructed climbingareas, and even a dedicated toddler area.Their cafe has been awarded 5 stars forfood hygiene by the local council andoffers everything from a quick snack to ahearty hot meal and overlooks the playarea so parents can relax and enjoy acuppa whilst keeping an eye on theirchildren. Their in-house team of chefsprepare delicious, healthy food on thepremises so you can rest assured thatyour family is eating good food of thehighest quality. Funtown is availablefor parties and can cater for up to 45

children at a time.As well as the playtime fun and thegreat food anddrink, the childrencan be greeted byone of Funtown'smany greatcharacters whowill ensure everyone is enjoying the party.A party for 10 children costs as little as£75 and summer season tickets are nowon sale. Early bird offer: only £20 for firstchild and £12 for each additional sibling,if purchased before 31/05/13. Funtown isopen every day from 9.30am until 6pm.So, for guaranteed fun ,pay a visit toFuntown - you'll never want to leave! Call0844 567 9677 or visitwww.funtownliverpool.co.uk.



beadybeady provide fabulous children’sparties in your own home or venue.Parties cost from £9.50 per child to make5 items each. Discounts apply to partiesof over 20 and parties must have aminimum of 8 children. Suitable for 6years & older including teens. Parties lastapproximately 1 ½ hours. All materials areprovided plus a sparkly party bag. There isalso a deluxe party package for £13 witha minimum of 7 children. beadybeady arereliable and established since 2006 withall staff fully CRB checked. beadybeadyalso provide workshops for rainbows,brownies, guides, dance & drama groupsat an amazing £4.50 per child to make 4items each. Ideal also for PTA events suchas school fairs. See online shop forjewellery and beads for sale. For moredetails contact 0151 639 1505 or visitwww.beadybeady.co.uk .

Would you like a FUN packed memorableparty? The Creepy Crawly Show isenjoyable for all ages and great for homeparties, children's birthdays, christenings,holy communions and other familycelebrations . Everyone can join in fromtoddlers to teens and the adults areentertained too. From party games, musicto ‘Get Me Out of Here’ style challengesand don’t forget the animals, with snakes,tarantula, scorpion, lizards, giant Africansnails, hissing cockroaches, turtles andmany more. It offers great photoopportunities and is all presented by theircomical ‘Explorer’ style entertainer who’llensure your occasion is a fun andmemorable one. Available throughoutMerseyside, Wirral & Cheshire. Book youradventure now: 01244 646045www.thecreepycrawlyshow.co.uk



Softplay4tots is a mobile soft play hire for 0 - 6 year olds. They are based in Liverpooland serve Merseyside, Wirral, Cheshire, Lancashire, North Wales and further afieldupon request. They specialise in providing professional soft play equipment, indoor oroutdoor, on a fully matted area. Whatever the occasion they can provide the fun.They deliver the equipment, set up and take away afterwards. Ideal for children'sbirthday parties, weddings, christenings and much more. With softplay4tots, childrencan use their imagination and have a great time in a safe and fun environment.Parents/carers are always looking for an alternative to the traditional party or eventand can feel that some children's play areas are too grown up or even too scary fortheir little ones. Softplay4tots is a safe and fun way for your little ones to enjoy anyoccasion without that worry. You can relax and enjoy watching the children playknowing they wont hurt themselves. From the ever popular 2 meter circular ball poolto their range of exciting shapes to climb on, slide down and explore; tots can beguaranteed a fun time and parents a stress free party.Their softplay equipment is clean and well maintained.They also offer a range of extras such as toddlers bouncycastle, dressing up trolley, gazebo etc… to complimentyour occasion. To find out more, please call Helen on0151 487 3765 or 07423 015956 or check out theirwebsite www.softplay4tots.com.



Yummy Recipes

Method:Start by making the biscuit base. Meltthe butter in a pan and add the crushedbiscuits, mix well and press the mixture intothe base of 7” loose bottomed cake tin, orindividual dishes. Leave to rest in the fridge.Meanwhile, beat together the mascarpone,icing sugar, zest and lemon juice in a bowl.Spread this mixture on top of your biscuit baseand return to the fridge for 30 minutes to set.Once set, remove the cheesecake from the tinand decorate with chocolate eggs.

A light & refreshing dessert that’s simplicityitself. You can easily swap the digestives forBourbons, Hobnobs or Oreos & use limes ororanges instead of lemons. For a more adultversion slip in 1-2 table spoons of a fruitliqueur like Cointreau.

Method: Place the butter into a medium microwaveablebowl, add the cocoa powder, milk chocolate and goldensyrup. Microwave on high for approximately 1 minute 30seconds or until melted. Stir to mix everything together.Hold 1 Shredded Wheat over the bowl and squeeze in your

hand to crumble it in. Re-peat with the other 3Shredded Wheat and stir tomix evenly. Line the bun tinwith the cup cake cases andput a generous tablespoon-ful of the mixture into eachcase. Press the centre of each nest with your fingers tomake a slight dip and then arrange 3mini eggs in each of the nests. Chill for30 minutes before eating.Yummy

These chocolate nests are a perfect to enjoy atEaster. Quick and simple to make!

Yummy!

Kids Direct Liverpool Music, Drama & Dance Spring 2013


Little Actors Theatre Company is a socialenterprise offering performing artsactivities for children aged 2½ - 11.A grant from the John Thaw Foundationenables them to offer discounts to lowincome families. Based in the L15 area,they are offering DramaTots for pre-school children and their parent/carerswith singing, dance and drama andTheatre Club for ages 5-11 with twohours of drama and musical theatre.All facilitators are professionally trainedand experienced actors.Participating in the performing artsimproves health and well being andalso builds children's confidence,communication skills and self-esteem.For further details contact SamanthaGiblin on 0151 336 4302, email:[email protected] or visitwww.littleactorstheatre.com.



You base your character Lily Savage on the women you grew up around, why do youthink she struck a chord with people of all ages and backgrounds? “Lily was always acartoon character, down to earth and people loved her and I found if you weredressed up as a woman, were matronly and very much for the underdog, it helped.”Many of our readers would like a career in show business, what advice would you givethem? “DON’T! No actually, i’d say go for it, but leave things like X Factor alone. Ithink you are there to be laughed at a lot of the time. Go to a good drama school,enjoy yourself and learn your craft. If you’ve got a good singing voice then learn touse it. I think I would have loved that and I missed out there.”As well as going to school in Merseyside, you worked in West Kirbyresidential school, what was that like? “I did 3 years there startingwhen I was 18. I worked 14 hours a day and was in charge of 18children with all sorts of different disabilities but I loved workingthere and that experience really helped when I moved to Londonbecause I felt like I could deal with anything after working there.”Do you like playing baddies? You have been quoted as saying I seem tobe making a living frightening children! “I love it, I do. I loved beingthe wicked queen in Snow White but the only villain I didn’t likewas the child catcher in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang because it was too scary and thekids were genuinely terrified and I was unhappy playing it.”You are famous for loving animals, how many pets do you have? “I’ve got 3 dogs, a pigwhose now 12 and not well, 2 goats, 10 sheep all hand reared as they were allorphans, some chickens, some ducks and a rescue barn owl called Minnie. Don’tbelieve anything about owls being wise, she’s dead thick.”What was it like being on Dr Who? “I was only in it for 6 seconds but the kids loved it,I was followed round the village by fans just because I’d been in the Tardis!”

Kids Direct interviewPaul O’Grady

Kids Direct catch up with oneof Merseyside’s most famoussons, Paul O’Grady, born in1955 in Birkenhead.

Paul O’Grady presents his own Radio 2 show every Sunday, 5-7pm.

Celebrity Interview

Kids Direct Liverpool Sporting Fun Spring 2013


Liverpool Watersports Centre offers awide range of watersport activities. Theiraim is to open up watersports to thewhole community at affordable prices.They provide quality instruction in waterand land based activities for adults,children and groups. Lessons can behourly, half day, full day or as a courseand taster sessions are available too.

Children will also love celebrating theirbirthdays at Liverpool WatersportsCentre. Parties can be from 1 to 2 hoursand includes a choice of activity fromkayaking, rafting, canoes, stand uppaddleboards, sailing, windsurfing &water rollers. There is a room available tohire where you can bring your own foodor alternatively they have great facilitiesin their coffee bar not to mention itsstunning views.

For something different, why not bookyourself onto one of theirAlbert Dock CanoeTours, where youcan paddle from thecentre in QueensDock through theSouth LiverpoolDocklands up towardsthe Albert Dock and return. The tour istaken with one of their instructors whowill guide you and tell you about thehistory of the docks and give you somehandy tips on your paddling technique.

The staff at Liverpool Watersports Centreare friendly, very experienced and arealways happy to help. Contact them on0151 708 9322 or email them [email protected].



The best way to tell you about FamilyMartial Arts is by recommendation: “Mytwo children and I attended a free trialheld by Family Martial arts. Following thetrial my son and daughter aged 7 and 6decided to start on the basic programme,after completing the programme whichthey enjoyed immensely, they joined theleadership programme to achieve theirblack belts. Since starting at Family MartialArts both Reece and Rhea have not onlylearnt how to defend themselves, butmore importantly they have acquiredeveryday transferable skills: self-confidence, self-control, respect, courtesy,perseverance, honesty and have alsoimproved their health and fitness. Theyhave both been truly inspired by MissShipley thriving to achieve their ownlearning aims whilst also taking up the

challenge of training to become juniorinstructors and passing on theirknowledge and passion for the sport toother young people. Their hard work anddedication is an inspiration and this wouldnot have been achieved without thesupport of the staff at FMA, I wouldrecommend all parents to seriouslyconsider the benefits of their son ordaughter joining the programme and feelas we do, part of a family orientatedorganisation who continually strive forexcellence.” by Julia Clarke, mum to Reeceand Rhea.

If you would like your children to achievethe many benefits that Family Martial artshas to offer call them on 0800 021 3119or visit their website for details:www.martialarts4everyone.co.uk.

Kids Direct CalendarEvery Saturday, Drop-in activities forall the family at The Bluecoat. 1-4pm.0151 709 4014 for reservations or [email protected].

Every Sunday, Miniature railway atCalderstones park. 12-4 pm. TheRailway is on the west side of the park,by the Harthill Road entrance (weatherpermitting). FREE.

20�� March to 8�� December. 50 thingsto do before your 11 & ¾, Speke Hall.Join their ”50 Things” campaign and getoutdoors and back to nature withpopular childhood pastimes. 0151 4277231. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/speke-hall.

23�� March to 14�� April. Easter Fun,Martin Mere. Easter has a treasuretheme at Martin Mere and a lovely Duckhunt on Easter Sunday. 01704 895181wwt.org.uk/martinmere (see page 30).

27�� March, There be Pirates!Merseyside Maritime Museum. 1-4 pm.A fun filled pirate themed craftworkshop for the whole family. Drop in.www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk. FREE.

27�� & 28�� March, Crafty Easter Cards,Lady Lever Art Gallery. 1-4pm. Use avariety of collage materials to makecolourful Easter cards. For more detailsvisit www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk.FREE.

27�� March to 7�� April, Moscow StateCircus, Sefton Park. A spectacular showcombining contemporary and classicalcircus with talented circus artistes fromRussia. Information line 07721 56 55 58wwww.moscowstatecircus.com.

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29�� March to 1�� April, Easter Egg Hunt,Church Farm. Meet the Easter bunnyand enjoy games, puzzles and ride on atractor too. Pre book tickets: 0151 6487838, www.churchfarm.org.uk. (Seepage 32).

29�� to 31�� March, Easter Crafts,Walker Art Gallery. Drop in from 1-4pm. Lots of Easter themed arts, craftsand fun. For more details visit:www.liverpoolmusuems.org.uk . FREE.

29�� March, Easter Party, David LloydLeisure Speke. Easter games, arts &crafts. Non-members welcome. 0151494 4000 FREE.

29�� March to 1�� April, Mad Museumhatters parade! Museum of Liverpool.Take a look at hats in history and makeyour own for a grand bonnet paradearound the museum at 4pm.www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk FREE.

31�� March & 1�� April Cadbury’s EasterEgg Trail, Speke Hall. Follow the cluesand solve puzzles to win an Easter egg.For more details call 0151 427 7231.www.nationaltrust.org.uk/speke-hall.

3��, 4�� & 5�� April, Easter Bonnetmaking, Speke Hall. Followed by EasterBonnet parade at 4pm. 0151 427 7231.www.nationaltrust.org.uk/speke-hall.

4�� April, BBC Worldwide presentsJustin & Friends. Echo Arena Liverpool.Great fun with Justin Fletcher ofCBeebies fame. For tickets call boxoffice on 0844 8000 400 or visitwww.echoarena.com.

3�� April-5�� April Chinese Camp.Holiday camp with great Chinese

Kids Direct Calendar

19

activities. Fun & learning all in one.Booking essential. See page 7 for lotsmore details. 07980 123948.

5�� April and every Friday, Family FunFridays, David Lloyd Leisure Speke. Afun-filled evening of activities. Non-members welcome. Free event & kidsbuffet available at £3.95. 0151 494 4000.

13�� & 14�� April, Pirates Weekend,World Museum. Drop in 1-4 pm. Makeyour own pirate costume and lots more.www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk. FREE.

28�� April Disney Party, David LloydLeisure Speke. Dress up and join theDisney themed games, crafts & lotsmore. Non-members welcome. 0151494 4000. FREE.

1�� to 2ⁿ� May Finalist challenge andWinners announcement for schoolsparticipating in the Head for Businesscompetition (see page 6).

5�� & 6�� May, Tudor May Day Festival,Speke Hall. See how the Tudor’s lived,worked and played at this festival withfood, music and entertainment. Formore details call 0151 427 7231 or visitwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/speke-hall.

9�� to 11�� May, Spot’s Birthday Party,Liverpool Playhouse. Celebrating thebirthday of everyone’s favourite puppyand his friends. For tickets call the boxoffice on 0151 709 4776 or visitwww.everymanplayhouse.com.

11�� May, Picnic in the Park Communityfun day in Cherry Lane Playing fields.www.liverpool.gov.uk.

17�� May, Grand re-opening ofLiverpool Central Library. Long

awaited and promises to be spectacular.

17�� May, Light Night Festival, VariousVenues. A festival of Liverpool’s arts andculture showcased in 1 night. 4pm tilllate. Visit www.lightnightliverpool.co.uk

18�� May, Mab’s Magical Fair, 12-4pm.A family afternoon of woodland craftsfor Elves and Fairies of all ages (see page29 for more details). FREE.

19�� May, Festival of Sport in NewshamPark. Sports demonstrations and tastersessions for families to try.www.liverpool.gov.uk

22ⁿ� to 26�� May, Walking withDinosaurs, Echo Arena Liverpool. Astunning theatrical event for the wholefamily. For tickets call 0844 8000 400 orvisit www.echoarena.com.

25�� May to 2ⁿ� June Downy DucklingWeek, Martin Mere. Visit the ducklingnursery and see the whole experiencefrom egg to duckling. 01704 895181wwt.org.uk/martinmere (See page 30).

25�� May to 9�� June, 3 special Maritimeweekends on Liverpool’s Waterfront.Visit www.visitliverpool.com for moredetails.

8�� July, Summer issue of Kids Direct. Ifyou wish to advertise please [email protected], call 07980 304998or visit www.kidsdirectliverpool.com.

Please note: Whilst every effort hasbeen made to ensure accuracy, detailsmay change. Please ohone the venueconcerned or visit their website tocheck dates, times, prices and ifbooking is required before setting out.



The All Star Wrestling School offerstremendous opportunities for newrecruits to follow in the footsteps oftoday's WWE superstars such asSheamus, Dave Finlay, William Regal,and many more who all came throughthe ranks to first make their mark in AllStar rings. Now in its 6th year, the AllStar School operates every Saturday,10am to 4pm at Bebington Civic Centrewith boys and girls aged from 8 yearsoffered the chance to start living theirdream with personal training in a 16 sq.ft. ring from some of Britain's best-known wrestling talent. The WrestlingSchool also runs popular children'sparties with two hours of non-stop fun,visits by guest wrestling stars and use ofa 16ft square inflatable ring. For moredetails call 07738 330 316.

David Lloyd Leisure Speke have lots tooffer families with their excellent familyfriendly facility. As well as their greatgym and sports facilities, they haveexcellent crèche facilities and arestaurant/bar area. Their staff arefriendly, knowledgeable and happy tohelp. They also offer lots of fun activitiesfor members and non members,including Family Fun Fridays, held everyFriday from 4.45-7.00 pm with boardgames, colouring arts and crafts andfootball. A kids buffet is also availableduring this time priced at £3.95. TheirKids team will also be hosting an EasterParty and Disney party this spring. Formore details or to arrange a visit callthem on 0151 494 4000 or visitwww.davidlloyd.co.uk.

Kids Direct Liverpool Just For Fun Spring 2013


Kids Direct Liverpool Feature Spring 2013




Kids can be busy bees at Humble BeeFarm! If you’d love to stay for free in acosy wooden camping cabin in thecountry where the kids can run aboutand play in the fresh air and even collecttheir own newly laid egg for breakfast -then hurry and enter their freecompetition above!

The winners willget 2 nights in a heated wooden Wigwamfor up to 5 people at the Humble BeeWigwam Holiday site near Scarborough inNorth Yorkshire. There’s a great children’splay area complete with fireman’s pole –

plus farm walks and lots of farm yardanimals to make friends with. It’s a greatexperience for youngsters of life on aworking farm. You can even bring thefamily dog with you! Humble Bee alsoholds special cowboys and Indiansweekends and wildlife events as well aslive calving and lambing weekends in theSpring. Sandy beaches with exciting cliffsand lots of different seabirds to spot arealso close by and on a night you can haveyour own camp fire under the stars rightoutside your Wigwam. So what are youwaiting for? Get your competition entry inby May 1�� Humble Bee Farm is part of anetwork of Wigwam Holiday sites in over50 beautiful locations. To find out lotsmore, check their website atwww.wigwamholidays.com/humble_bee_wigwams.

Competition



ariety is very important, try not to stick to carrots and peas, think of all the vegetables starting with AAckee, Artichoke, Aubergine, to T tomato. The majority of vegetables are available all year round now,fresh or frozen, and not just in season so trial some different vegetables.stablish vegetables/salad at each evening meal. Remember that we have to taste something at least10 times for us to like a flavour; hence this is a good routine to follow for our taste buds and health.Here are some meal ideas with veggies included:

Fish fingers, oven chips with green beans & carrotsRisotto rice with peasChicken curry with a tin of chick peas added serve with riceSausages, mashed potato, roasted parsnips & butternut squash and gravyChicken breast grilled with potato wedges, salsa sauce, corn on the cob and baked beans.Pasta & cauliflower or broccoli cheese bakeTakeaway curry- try a side order of Saag Aloo- spinach & potato or Aloo Gobi- potato &

cauliflower.

rate the following for a change to your green salad, around 5-6 portions in this salad1 raw carrot, half a raw celeriac, half a cucumber, 1 pear.

motions - If you don’t like a vegetable yourself try not to show your child your dislike, let them makeup their own minds. Don’t cajole bribe or push your child to try different vegetables, battles over foodwill only make situations worse. Remember that mealtimes are not just for nourishment but in our busylifestyles they are a chance for the family to get together. If mealtimes are becoming frustrating (believeme my husband and I have been there!) try to put things into perspective and keep calm, if yourchildren won’t try the vegetables today, tomorrow is another day! Patience and persistence is the key.omatoes are a great versatile… fruit actually, but as we use them more in savoury foods they areincluded.

Raw tomatoes with a salad.Grilled tomatoes on your beef burger.Tomato puree on your pizza base.Tinned tomatoes with a breakfast i.e. with grilled bacon, scrambled egg and toast.

As a mother of two children and a qualified Dietitian for over 10 years, if I got given a pound for everytime I heard those words I could retire!Fruit and vegetables have long been identified as having beneficial properties in preventing certaindiseases i.e. obesity, high cholesterol and constipation to name a few. Fruit and vegetables containvitamins, minerals and fibre that the body needs to help maintain a healthy balance.Unfortunately, vegetables can turn out to be children’s and adults least favourite food. The Departmentof Health recommends 5 portions of fruit and vegetables daily.1 portion is:

· 2-3 tablespoons of vegetables.· 1 piece of fruit i.e. apple, orange.· A small bowl of salad.· 1 handful of grapes, strawberries or other berries.

For more portion ideas see www.nhs.uk/Livewell/5ADAY/Pages/Portionsizes.aspxSo how can we get the family to start saying “I like them!” Here are a few simple ideas for

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Tinned tomatoes with a breakfast i.e. with grilled bacon, scrambled egg and toast.Sun dried tomatoes mixed into a rice kedgeree or risotto.Italian tomato sauce made with tinned or fresh tomatoes (see Italian bolognese recipe).Tomato or minestrone soup.

dd vegetables to make the base of a fantastic tasty Italian bolognese sauce. And no one will ever see avegetable! If you are working the next day get the veg and meat prepared the night before and a slowcooker is a wise investment. Around 6-8 portions of vegetables in this dish.1 raw carrot, 1 raw courgette, 1 red pepper, 1 onion, 3 garlic cloves.

● Chop all of the above into small pieces (an electric chopper is very time saving).● Fry the veg for 10 minutes with a splash of olive oil.● Transfer the cooked veggies into a large pan with a lid or a slow cooker.● Fry your beef or pork mince in the same pan and for more flavour add 3 rashes of bacon

chopped up (optional).● Transfer the browned meat to the large pan with the veggies then add 1-2 tins of tomatoes.● Add one chicken stock cube, a pinch of paprika, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano or basil and

season with salt & pepper. If you need more fluid add a drop of water.● Mix together well and cook on low for at least 2-6 hours or better still put your slow cooker

on first thing and it will be ready when you get home from work.● Serve with pasta/rice or jacket potato.

eans and lentils are great and versatile and they contain high amounts of fibre. Here are some ideasfor beans/lentils to be added into your cooking.

Chicken fajita mix with wraps, add a tin of mixed beans into the mix.Next time you have a takeaway curry try one of the lentil dishes called dhals i.e. Tarka dahlBaked beans on toastRed kidney beans in a chili-con-carneBolotti beans added into stews or casserolesPearl barley added into a chicken or steak pie sauce.

ight up your family meals with a range of recipes that are quick, nutritious, and easy to make. We allhave a list of meals that we cook in the week and have perfected so that the family enjoys. My favouritechefs are Nigella Lawson who is great for working parents as it cuts corners without impairingtaste.Jamie Oliver is a true lover of vegetables and fruit and the majority of his meals are based aroundthese. Check out websites for “free recipes” or look for the free recipe cards in your supermarket.

at up your vegetables in front of the kids. A lot of adults who don’t like vegetables often can trace backtheir dislike from their childhood. They may have been forced to eat them and thus created bad experi-ences of vegetables. This is not the way to get children eating veg and can result in food aversion tovegetables, if carried on throughout adulthood can increase the risk of developing diseases. Childrencopy role models and if you can overcome your dislike of vegetables, then your children can see thatthey are part of a healthy balanced meal and not something to be avoided.

tews, soups and stir-frys are a great way of utilizing your vegetables. Fresh, frozen, tinned and driedveg all counts to your portion requirements.Fresh- broccoli, carrots, sugar snap peas, baby sweetcorn, onions, peppers.Frozen- corn on the cob, roasted peppers, roasted parsnips, mixed vegetables, peas, green beans.Tinned- beans, mushy peas, chick-peas.Dried- mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes.

Get experimenting with veggies! If you would like to discuss your diet with a registered Dietitian then pleasediscuss this with your Doctor GP. Our thanks to Claire Chaudhry for providing the information for this fea-ture. Claire is employed in the NHS as a Community Dietitian based in Wrexham/Flintshire, her special in-terests are Diabetes, Obesity and Healthy eating.

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Kids Direct Liverpool Great Days Out Spring 2013


Advertise With Kids Direct Liverpool

Areas covered: Aigburth, Allerton, Anfield, Belle Vale,Bowring Park,Broadgreen, Childwall, City Centre, Clubmoor, Croxteth Park, Dingle, Dovecot,Edge Hill, Fairfield, Gateacre, Hale, Halewood, Hunts Cross, Huyton, Kensington,Knotty Ash, Knowsley Village, Netherley, Old Swan, Page Moss, Prescot, Rainhill,Roby, Sefton Park, Speke, St Michael's Hamlet, Stockbridge Village, Stoneycroft,Tarbock, Tuebrook, Wavertree, West Derby, Whiston & Woolton.Kids Direct also publish in Wirral, Chester, Warrington and North Wales.

●●● 1 ● Distributed through primary

schools, libraries and healthcentres.

Email:[email protected] Call: 07980 304498www.kidsdirectliverpool.com



Church Farm is a fantastic day out for allthe family. There are lots of friendlyanimals to meet, a fun play area withgo-karts, maze and swings and a farm walk

with beautifulviews over theRiver Dee andNorth Wales. Atweekends andholidays, join inwith tractor rides,pat-a-pet andanimal feeding,plus the new barreltrain!

The Easter Egg Hunt is on from 29�� Marchtill 1�� April. Ride on the tractor up to theChurch Farm forest, where all the familymust work together to play hook-a-duck,

basketball dunk and lots more games ofskill to find the eggs and solve the Easterpuzzle. Then meet the friendly EasterBunny who’ll reward the kids withchocolate! Tickets must be pre-booked on0151 648 7838 or online atwww.churchfarm.org.uk.

Book a children’s party or a school visit;you’ll meet all the animals and helpharvest the organic fruit and vegetables.You can even take some produce homewith you.

The farm shop stocks a variety of home-grown, locally-produced and luxury foodand the cosy Munch coffee shop is a lovelyplace to sit with a posh coffee, cake or lightlunch. Church Farm is open Wed-Sun10am-5pm, www.churchfarm.org.uk.

Kids Direct Liverpool Book Review Spring 2013


0-4 Years Noisy Robots by UsborneFun and interactive, this book is full of beeping, buzzing andclankingly adventurous robots. With a sound panel of 8 roboticsounds. Little hands won’t be able to resist the colourful pictures.From futuristic rocket robots to little speed racers, ones withsqueaky wheels to clunky clinky time keepers, this is truly a funinteractive book.

Peepo by Janet and Allan AhlbergA classic that all the family will love ”he BEST book EVER published forbabies” with funny rhymes and beautiful pictures a funny story througha baby’s eyes, With sights and sounds, tears and tantrums. "Here's littlebaby, one, two, three stands in his cot, what does he see? PEEPO!"

5-8 YearsI am not a loser by Barry Loser, spellchecked by Jim SmithTwice as good & twice as funny as A Diary of a wimpy kid. This is a mad-cap must-read. It is the first of 3 notebooks belonging to Barry Loser.Follow Barry as he tries to throw off his loserness, take revenge on theterrible Fronkle-burping Darren Darrenofski & finally become a winner.If you liked wimpy kid you'll love this.

Beautiful creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret StohlIs falling in love the beginning or the end? There is a girl. A girl with somuch power and so many secrets. There is a curse. On the sixteenthmoon on the sixteenth year, something paranormal will happen whichwill change the fates forever, but will it be her or the dark secrets shehides?

8-11 Years

Book review by Melissa McClean, Waterstones Liverpool One

James and the giant peach by Roald DahlA Dahl classic and one of my personal favourites the strange adventures ofa young boy with no friends and who lost his parents after they were eatenby a rhinoceros, now has to go live with his repulsive aunts. He finds him-self on a very strange adventure inside a giant peach with some very pecu-liar characters, a great adventure story which warms the heart.

Queenie by Jacqueline WilsonThe fantastic new novel from this best selling author and greatlyanticipated. This fantastic book does not disappoint and is full of Wilson’sflare. Set in the children's ward of a 1950's hospital. "I don’t like it here onelittle bit. The boy in the next bed is horrid and nurse Patterson has really gotit in for me, thank goodness for Queenie, the most beautiful hospital cat inthe world, she is my very best friend on the children's ward."



Young wizards, sprites, elves and fairies!You’re invited to Mab’s Magical Fair, afree outdoor festival for boys, girls andtheir families. Come along dressed up, orjoin the secret Forest School in the woodsto create your own crown, wand andwings from natural materials. Enjoyenchanted storytelling, marshmallows andcrafts around the fire, spectacular facepainting and lots more.This free event takes place on Saturday18�� May 2013 at Mab Lane CommunityWoodland in West Derby, Liverpool.It is organised by The Mersey Forest inpartnership with Liverpool City Counciland Riverside Berrybridge as part of Accessto Nature, a national scheme run byNatural England and funded by the BigLottery Fund.

Get it in the diary now so as not to missout! Visit www.mablane.com to find outmore about this great day out!



Spring is a great time of year to visit WWTMartin Mere. With new life hatching allaround the centre you can see goslings,ducklings, cygnets and even flamingochicks when they hatch in Spring. The

centre has abrand newadventure playarea thatopened in 2012as well as denbuilding, ponddipping, boat

tours, hand feeding birds and plenty offun family crafts and activities for thewhole family to enjoy on a day out.Every Thursday during term time is‘Toddler Thursday’ a day aimedspecifically for children aged 4 and under.There are story time sessions at 10.30am

and 1.30pm, toddler crafts, toddler boattours and even a special offer in the cafe:buy one adult hot meal and get a child’shot meal for free. Each week there arenew activities for toddlers to enjoy so youand your child can enjoy being aroundnature all year round.For more details telephone: 01704895181 or visit wwt.org.uk/martinmere.



Standing almost 500 feet above theheart of Liverpool city centre, St John’sBeacon, home to multi-award winningradio station Radio City 96.7, offersunrivalled 360 degree panoramic viewsof Merseyside, Cheshire and the Wirralpeninsula. On clearer days you can evensee Snowdonia and Blackpool Tower.Originally designed as a ventilation shaftfor the St John’s market development,the beacon became famously known as arevolving restaurant in the 1970’s. Aftera brief stint as a Buck Rogers themedrestaurant in 1983 the beacon wasmothballed until Radio City took over thetenancy, moving from Stanley Streetwhich had been the station’s home forover 25 years. Finally, the iconic towerwas given a new lease of life.Having received the keys in 1998, theradio station began broadcasting from itsnew home in July 2000 following an 18month, multi-million pound renovationprogramme.The beacon is now open to the public 7days a week from 11am until 6pmincluding bank holidays. At weekendsvisitors can enjoy refreshments in ourvery own Café Vista with stunning viewsof Liverpool’s historic waterfront.Prices are just £5 for adults, £4 forstudents/seniors and accompaniedchildren aged 5 and above just £3. Weare also delighted to offer readers of KidsDirect a discount of 10% when theymention this advert.For further details please visitwww.liverpooltowertours.com or [email protected] very much look forward to seeingyou soon at one of the UK’s premiertourist attractions.


Kids Direct Liverpool Eating Out with the Kids Spring 2013

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Kids Direct Liverpool Services for Parents Spring 2013


Busy Bees Maid Service is a professional Domestic Cleaning Company run by Karenand Brian Tattum. They have 3 boys, aged 15, 7 and 5. Having three children andbalancing work was a constant struggle so they decided to do something that meantthey had more flexibility with their children while also providing a reliable income.Running their own business has meant that as a team, they can always put theirchildren first while maintaining a professionally run and successful business.Running a busy household, Karen and Brian understand how important their serviceis, and have developed a consistently reliable, high quality service. Busy Bees ensuresits customers’ needs are met by remaining flexible and listening to them, making everyclean bespoke for every customer. Their service is based on the philosophy that usinga cleaning company should be a positive experience that enriches your life.Busy Bees caters for a wide variety of customers from all walks of life and have anenviable reputation for consistency and reliability, backed by being the only cleaningcompany in the area with Safe Trader status from Trading Standards. They fully trainand check all of their staff and monitor their progress, while also encouraging theircustomers feedback.A clean and tidy home is a healthier and happier home. Busy Bees are happy to helpyou free your time to spend with your family, rather than doing the cleaning. For moreinformation, call Busy Bees on 0151 639 6399 to discuss your requirements, withoutobligation.

Kids Direct Liverpool Services for Parents Spring 2013


Verabella Boutique is a gorgeous familyrun boutique in the heart of Liverpool.Named after their daughters andmeaning ‘Summer Beauty’, they stockchildren's designer clothes andaccessories for boys and girls aged from0-12. Their aim is to bring qualitydesignerwear to children at affordableprices. They pride themselves on givingoutstanding customer service and havea global customer following. Verabellaboutique was set up from home and hasflourished into an amazing family runbusiness. Their customers are theirnumber one priority and they go out oftheir way to help you find the perfectoutfit for your child. So, for outstandingservice and great designerwear visitVerabella Boutique, Norton Street,Liverpool, L3 8QA Tel: 07861 706250

Kidz Deals offer parents the opportunityto purchase discounted daily deals. Theybring great savings on days out,activities, parties and lots more,exclusively for kidz.Kidz Deals are always on the look out forgreat deals so email [email protected] to find out howyou can advertise your business throughtheir website. www.kidzdeals.co.uk.

Kids Direct Liverpool Classifieds Spring 2013


Southport Pleasureland – bigger andbrighter than ever for 2013! AtSouthport Pleasureland there’s no entrycharge, so you pay only for the rides andamusements you choose and non-ridingmembers pay nothing at all – and thatincludes the family dog! Rides are fromas little as £1 making it one of the best,affordable family fun days out. Clean,bright and bursting with activities foreveryone, from tots to teens, mums,

dads and grandparents. The 32 acrepark is home to around 100 rides, cafes,an indoor play area, amusements andbars, an arcade, performance areas andSouthport’s premier F1 go-kart track.Battlefield Live offers the region’spremier laser shoot out environment,great fun for anyone from aged sevenand above. So, for one of the best familydays out, visit Southport Pleasureland.www.southportpleasureland.com

Documents

Spring 2013