kent family magazine (maidstone) spring 11
DESCRIPTION
Kent family magazine is a free publication distributed to families and parents-to-be in the Maidstone and Medway area of Kent.TRANSCRIPT
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Maidstone& Malling
MARCH – MAY
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family
Family Cycling
EASTERWHAT’SON
SPRING 2011
Kent
THE ROYAL WEDDING
Local News l What’s On l Maternity l Parenting l School days
5WIN
FAMILY TICKETS
to LEGOLAND THE YALDING
GARDENS
Welcome to the Spring Issue . . .
I love this time of year, the warmer weather and spring flowers make us feel much brighter and invite us to get out and enjoy the fresh air. For me that will mean long buggy walks in the park with my son Reece and baby daughter Ava, who arrived just before Christmas.
For children of all ages, this issue has a host of low-cost activity ideas to get
out and enjoy, especially over the Easter holidays. We have a feature article on two local organisations, Spotlites@Kings Theatre and The Yalding Gardens, both of whom are passionate about children having fun, learning and developing new skills.
Having a new baby again has meant having to rediscover Maidstone groups and services for new mums, reminding me how valuable it is to share local information with each other. Please let us know your news and details of local activities your family have enjoyed, by emailing [email protected]
Sue LyonsMaidstone [email protected]
Sue Lyons
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ContentsBike about
Maidstone news
Join the show
History beyond the classroom
What’s on this Easter
Explore nature at Yalding
Toddler talk
Mama & baby
Bump and beyond
LEGOLAND competition
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of details in Kent Family magazine, we cannot accept responsibility for such. Views expressed by contributors and advertisers do not necessarily reflect those of the editors and publishers. Articles and advertisements created by us are copyright of the publishers, Kent Family Magazines, and may not be reproduced without prior consent.
37,000 copies given to parents-to-be and families in Maidstone, Medway and Kent.
Next issue out: 27th June Kent
familyFor distribution, advertising or editorial contact:01634 [email protected]
www.kentfamilymagazine.co.ukKent Family Magazine @kentfamilymag
Bike About
Stewart Vanns from Maidstone-based Cycling Revolutions gives his advice and tips on family-friendly cycling.
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Family ActivitiesChildren love cycling. Not only does it offer the chance to race about, it can be a sociable activity to enjoy with friends and family. Adults too are increasingly seeing the benefits of two wheels as an economical alternative to driving to work or the shops.
If you are an avid rider the chances are your children will see you as a positive role model when learning to ride. But what if you haven’t ridden a bike for years and are worried about traffic on the road. As cycling newbies ourselves, we spoke to Stewart Vanns who runs cycling courses for children and adults in Maidstone, Tonbridge and throughout Kent and the South East. And asked him for his tips and advice on getting parents and children back in the saddle.
ADVICE FOR ADULTS “I think one of the fears parents have about cycling is road danger,” says Stewart who is a qualified Bikeability course instructor “but with a common sense approach to safety, cycling is far less dangerous than people imagine.”
Whether you are getting back on your bike after the winter season or returning to cycling for the first time in years, Stewart gives us his tips for adults:
• Check your bike is roadworthy. Tyres need to be pumped to the correct pressures. Check that both brakes are working and that the chain and gears are running smoothly. This applies to both your bike and your child's.
• Easy does it. Find a park or large open area and practice looking over your shoulder to see behind you and then taking one hand off of the handlebars to signal, building confidence here will make signalling on the roads less nerve-wracking.
• Use your gears. If your bike has gears, remember that lower is easier and higher is harder. Too many people stay in too high a gear which makes swift starts with traffic harder.
• Postion yourself correctly. Aim to be just under a metre away from the kerb or parked vehicles, this allows traffic to see you earlier, slow down and give you
Cyclopark is Kent's newest activity place. And with more than £9 million being invested, it is set to become one of the leading multi-sports centres in the South-East.
Situated off the A2, south of Gravesend, and set in 43 hectares of park land, the new centre will bring first-class cycling, running and extreme sports facilities to North Kent. It hopes to become a venue for regional and local sporting events, as well as a facility for local schools and community organisations.
Opening in Spring 2012 there will be:
l A 2.9km long track for cycling, running, in-line skating and skateboarding.
l 340m BMX racetrack and a free ride/pump track. BMX spectator arena.
l State-of-the-art skate park.
l Large cycle-based playground area.
l 600m2 multi-use games area.
l Central pavillion for visitors and community use.
An exciting new resource on our doorstep!Visit www.cyclopark.com for more info.
to advertise call 01634 814364 5
cycloparkenough room. Taking the centre of your lane at junctions keeps traffic behind you.
• Communicate with drivers. Making eye contact is the most powerful thing you can do to a driver. Meet their gaze to get their attention then signal confidently.
TIPS FOR CHILDREN• Getting their balance. To help children
progress to cycling without stabilizers, remove them, and the pedals, and drop the seat so they can touch the floor flat footed. Get them used to scooting along down a gentle slope, then put the pedals back on once they can comfortably find their balance.
• Ensure their bike fits them correctly. Generally they should be able to touch the floor with the balls of their feet and comfortably reach the handlebars, without being too stretched or cramped. Also make sure that they can reach the brakes easily and use the levers.
• Teach them to stop with their brakes, not their feet. Play games to help them develop the skills needed on the road, looking behind, signalling and changing gears. Be creative.
• Keep them in front. When cycling with children on the road, keep them in front of you where you can protect them by making traffic come around you. You'll be able to see them at all times and explain what you want them to do at junctions.
• Keep the rides short and fun for little ones, stopping at a park or ice cream shop will break up a longer ride. Remember, they can walk up a hill if they need to, there are no rules. You want them to love cycling and be keen to do it again.
Stewart runs Maidstone-based Revolutions Cycling, providing bespoke cycle training, promotional events, maintenance training and services throughout Kent. He works with schools, community groups and local Councils and is currently running a Mountain Biking Course for Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council for children aged 8 to 16 years. For more information visit www.revolutionscycling.co.uk
6 www.kentfamilymagazine.co.uk
Maidstone News Pass it on...
Learn something new!School may be out for the Easter break, but there are plenty of other opportunities to learn something new at the many holiday clubs and workshops taking place locally.
Activate 2011Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council run an exciting programme of courses during the school holidays including archery, fashion design, fencing, wind surfing, mountain biking, jewellery making and golf. Most workshops last 2-3 hours and cost around £10-£15. Deadline for booking is 8th April. Call Leisure Services on 01732 876166 or visitwww.tmyouth.org.uk/activate
Club EnergyMaidstone Leisure Centre's popular Club Energy will be open from 11th - 15th and 18th-21st April. Each holiday they have a different theme, with activities and guest speakers. Parents can choose from variety of sessions between 8.30am-5.30pm. For ages 5-14 years. Call the Children's Team on01622 220228.
HotfootMaidstone Borough Council's regular holiday playscheme will be running at Bower Grove School, Eastborough Primary School and Oak Trees School this Easter. For more information visit www.maidstone.gov.uk or call the Community Development Team on 01622 602222.
Mrs B's In Chapman Way, East Malling operate holiday clubs for children aged 4–11. This Easter children will be making pizza, painting and decorating eggs, face painting and more. Contact 01732 849492.
Maidstone Mums in Business is a new group that meets on a monthly basis. Open to any mums who run their own business, the aim of the meetings are to enable networking and provide help, support and advice as well and the opportunity to make new friends. "Many mums who work for themselves also work alone from home, which can be quite isolating", say Julie and Emma, the group's creators. Meetings are held at various locations in Maidstone and take place on Thursday evenings, 8-9.30pm. The next meetings are on: 14th April, 19th May and 16th June. For more details email Julie Clark on [email protected]
Mums in Business
This Art of MineCelebrating its 1st birthday this month, art studio This Art of Mine is running children's arts and crafts workshops throughout the holidays. Activites include jewellery making, pottery painting, t-shirt design and more. Lasting two hours the workshops cost £10 per child. To book contact Gemma on 07792 541149 or email [email protected]
to advertise call 01634 814364 7
Royal Wedding celebrations come to Leeds Castle
To commemorate the wedding of HRH Prince William to Kate Middleton on 29th April, Leeds Castle is hosting a day to remember.
The Royal Wedding will be broadcast live on a big screen, so you can watch history being made with your friends and family and enjoy the party atmosphere.
Having been home to six Medieval Queens during its 900-year history, and a preferred residence of Henry VIII, Leeds Castle is
hoping to provide visitors with a lasting memory of this historic day. Grounds open at 9.30am and entrance to this daytime event is included in the Key to the Castle ticket.
And the celebrations don't stop there. In the evening, there will be an open-air cinema showing of 'Mamma Mia' followed by a magnificent firework display to music. Gates open at 6pm. Adults £20, children under 16 years of age £15. Book in advance via www.leeds-castle.com
April will see the opening of the Turner Contemporary gallery on Margate seafront. Part of Margate's exciting revival, the gallery will be hosting regular family-friendly events, workshops and exhibitions.
The launch celebrations take place between 16th and 25th April.
Highlights for kids include:Weightless Drawing on 19th April, where children can experience amazing views of the new gallery from a human gyroscope.
The Science Museum outreach team will be arriving on 20th and 21st April for Wonder Lab - combining art and science experiments.
And at the Big Birthday Party on Saturday 23rd April, performers will take to the streets of Margate Old Town between 12 noon and 2pm.
For more details visit: www.turnercontemporary.org
Margategetscreative
get the latest news...Here at Kent Family we have a weatlh of information, news, what's on and competitions that we can't always squeeze into each issue. So why not sign up for our monthly email newsletter to find out what's happening near youemail [email protected] to join our list.
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We provide high quality childcare and education in an environment which is safe, caring, stimulating and fun.Our settings are bright and cheerful and we offer all the comforts of home to ensure the children feel happy, safe and secure. Our East Malling setting gives children the added benefit of an extensive outdoor area backing onto woodland, which allows them to explore nature, have plenty of outdoor exercise and fresh air daily as well as taking part in nature trails, seeing local wildlife and in our garden planting herbs and vegetables.
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What’s on
Spotlites@Kings Theatre is famous for its interactive children's theatre – what does that mean?Children have a wonderful ability to engage in stories and suspend their belief in what’s real. Even everyday objects can become magical dragon-slaying weapons or flesh-burning lightsabres. We utilise that imagination in our shows to bring the stories to life and engage our audiences.
Children become part of the story. They may come on stage and become a character or shout out
Tucked away in the heart of Chatham, Spotlites @ Kings Theatre has been wowing audiences locally and nationally with its unique interactive children’s theatre. We spoke to Artistic Director Rachel King and lead actor James Cowden to find out more.
their suggestions for how to defeat a baddie. It’s great fun because every show is different and children have the most amazing ideas. As an actor, you have to improvise a lo,t but it’s wonderful seeing how immersed the audience
becomes in the show. For that hour or two they truly believe they have ambushed pirates with swords, bombarded Captain Hook with dinosaur droppings and saved the day.
What do the parents make of your shows?We had a great review that said “parents definitely do not need to be accompanied by a child”. Most parents come in expecting to watch a rather dull children’s show and perhaps have a snooze while keeping an eye on their children. But everyone, regardless of age, loves a
Join the show
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“good story, and that’s what we do so well. Parents come away having experienced some great storytelling and enjoyed the interactive theatre along with their children.
Tell us about your national successEach summer, we take our interactive children’s theatre to Edinburgh Festival Fringe where we have been the best-selling children’s theatre company for the past five years. To put that in context, the festival lasts the whole of August and 300 venues host more than 3,000 shows from international theatre companies. So to be the best- selling children’s show is an excellent achievement. This year, we’ll be performing our latest show ‘Peter Pan on Dinosaur Island’.
As well as your productions you also have a youth theatreMore than 300 children, aged between 5 and 30, come to our youth theatre sessions each week. We run classes in Maidstone, Medway and Sittingbourne in acting and stagecraft, singing and dancing. Children get to attend a weekly performing arts session, where they have drama fun and games on a different theme each week, including acting, improvisation, dance, musical theatre, voice, puppetry, singing, dressing
up, script writing, comedy and drama games with the emphasis firmly on fun and imagination! They also get to take part in Spotlites’ big shows at no extra cost. New members are always
welcome and should phone to book in! We also run regular fun drama workshops in the school holidays and offer themed onstage drama parties for children.
Your shows are always good value for money – is this something you believe in?Yes – we feel that theatre should be accessible to everyone; therefore we strive to keep our pricing affordable: £22 for a family ticket! Likewise, we fundraise to keep the cost of membership of Spotlites Children’s and Youth Theatre to a reasonable price of £4.50 a week. We’ve been
around for 18 years, and are a professional theatre company with high standards and a caring and fun ethic.
What are your plans for 2011?Our latest show, ‘Peter Pan on Dinosaur Island’, will be running on 14th, 17th and 20th April and we'll be touring with the production in the summer. We're also performing the ‘Magic Porridge Pot’, our interactive play for children aged 2-5.We also have a brand new play for under 5s ‘The Enormous Turnip’ opening in Chatham this May! We offer discounts to pre-schools, nurseries and school groups. Our favourite piece of feed-back is from the children of 1st Tiny Steps Pre-School who came to see 'Magic Porridge Pot' and sent us a wonderful hand-print thank you card!
”Everyone, regardless of age, loves a good story, and that's what we do so well...
Spotlites@Kings Theatre is situated at 338 High Street, Chatham.Weekly drama sessions take place at Brunswick House School, Leafy Lane, Maidstone for ages 4-6, 7-11 and 12-21. For details visit www.spotlites.co.uk or call 01634 829468.
Getting there
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Very small group classes Classes for Yr 3 - Yr 11 Evenings & Weekends All public exams: SATs, 11+(Kent & Medway), GCSE, Common Entrance and Scholarships Holiday & revision programmes Handwriting courses One to one (subject to availability)
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Educational advicE, assEssmEnts & tuition
Very small group classes Classes for Yr 3 - Yr 11 Evenings & Weekends All public exams: SATs, 11+(Kent & Medway), GCSE, Common Entrance and Scholarships Holiday & revision programmes Handwriting courses One to one (subject to availability)
Please contact Mrs Clemens
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History beyond the classroom
ANCIENT EGYPTIANSA great place to see Egyptian collections is Maidstone Museum. You can see ‘The Lady of the House, Ta-Kesh, Daughter of Osiris’ –a real 2,700 year-old mummy (a little scary for younger viewers!). There are lots of Egyptian items on display too, including artwork, pottery and toys which give a good ‘feel’ for these people.
INVADERS AND SETTLERS: ANGLO-SAXONSMaidstone Museum also has the biggest selection of Anglo-Saxon items from Kent, including beautiful garnet and gold jewellery and rock-crystal pendants, as well as swords and spears from warrior burials.
INVADERS AND SETTLERS: ROMANSWhat did the Romans do for us? Find out more, at the Canterbury Roman Museum. Situated underground at the level of the Roman town, it’s an exciting mix of excavated real objects, reconstructions and the preserved remains of a town house with its famous mosaics. There’s plenty to make and do, computer interactives and objects to touch.
WANT TO GET THE KIDS INSPIRED ABOUT THEIR LATEST CLASS PROJECT? THE HISTORY OUR CHILDREN STUDY AT SCHOOL IS ALL AROUND US – YOU JUST NEED TO KNOW WHERE TO LOOK. STEVE NYE FROM ROCHESTER’S GUILDHALL MUSEUM TELLS US WHAT THERE IS TO SEE AND WHERE CAN YOU FIND IT LOCALLY.
Education
to advertise call 01634 814364 15
THE GREAT FIRE OF LONDONAlthough the City of London is full of modern development, there are still plenty of historic sites to visit, best explored on foot.
For children interested in the Great Fire, the starting point must be Pudding Lane (Monument tube or Cannon Street station). Here is The Monument, built to commemorate the Great Fire. Highly recommended for more energetic visitors! Climb 311 steps to the top (for which you are given a certificate!) to see many of London’s famous landmarks.
From the Monument, walk along Cannon Street
THE SECOND WORLD WARKent played a special part in the Second World War, being the
THE TUDORSWe’ve all walked past the Six Poor Travellers’ House in Rochester High Street, but how many of us have been in? This is a Tudor Charity House, founded by local MP and philanthropist, Richard Watts, in 1563 to provide free lodgings for poor travellers. Children love the six tiny Tudor brick bedrooms, and the ‘secret’ garden at the rear. This is a little island of tranquillity away from it all.
Upnor Castle is another hidden gem of local history. This castle was built on the orders of Queen Elizabeth in 1559 to help defend the English fleet based at Chatham dockyard. The castle is full of tiny rooms to explore (including those with Tudor toilets!), a clock tower to climb, and lots of grassy banks to roll down. It has a great view across the river, and is a lovely picnic spot. Upnor High Street is picturesque, with child-friendly pubs and a car park close by.
closest part of England to the Continent and at the forefront of the conflict during the Battle of Britain. A visit to The Spitfire and Hurricane Memorial Museum at RAF Manston, near Ramsgate, shows not only these two famous aircraft, but also much other wartime memorabilia. Also to be seen is one of the dambusters’ famous bouncing bombs, and the breathtaking Battle of Britain Tapestry. This was inspired by the stained glass windows of Westminster Abbey, and was started by pilots recovering in hospital after the war. There is an excellent café and souvenir shop.
to St Paul’s Cathedral. This magnificent building represented the new London that arose from the ashes of the Great Fire. From here, turn up St Martin’s Street to the Museum of London. This has a gallery about the Great Fire of London, including a small sound and light show, and a special exhibition called ‘London’s Burning’. There is also a large walk-through Roman gallery for those wanting to learn more about the Romans.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:www.canterbury-museums.co.uk
www.english-heritage.org.uk/upnorcastle
www.museum.maidstone.gov.uk
www.spitfirememorial.org.uk
www.visitmedway.org
www.themonument.info
www.museumoflondon.org.uk
16 www.kentfamilymagazine.co.uk
Monday 11th AprilThe Yalding GardensMake a grass head. Drop inbetween 10–12am and 1pm–3pm. £2.50. Suitable for all ages. www.yaldinggardens.org
Monday 11th – 14th AprilThis Art of Mine, near Bearsted Ceramic egg painting 1.30–3pm. Also on Tuesday 12th – ceramic sun and moon painting, Wednesday 13th – make your own rabbit hand puppet, Thursday 14th April – shrinky jewellery making. All workshops take place between 1.30– 3pm. £10 per child. To book call Gemma on 0779 2541149.
Wednesday 13th AprilMaidstone MuseumFarmyard animal petting. Drop in between 11am and 3pm and visit animals from Nepicar Farm including a rabbit, guinea pig, lamb, duck, goose, sheepdog and goat.
Wednesday 13th AprilThe Yalding Gardens Wildlife Wednesdays Pond-dipping. Sessions run from 10.30-11.30am and 1.30-
What’s on this
EasterSUNNY DAYS AND NEW BEGINNINGS. THERE’S LOTS TO DO THIS EASTER HOLIDAYS TO KEEP ALL YOUR LITTLE CHICKS HAPPY!
Events
2.30pm (arrive 15 minutes before the start of the session). Investigate what's living in the pond in spring. Identify what you have found and draw a picture to take home. £2.50. Suitable for accompanied children of all ages.
Friday 15th AprilManor Park Country ParkWest Malling Signs of Spring Discovery Day. Explore the park, decorate a plant pot and plant sunflowers. 10am–12noon and 1–3pm. £5 per child, suitable for accompanied under 12s. Also at Shorne Woods Country Park on Friday 15th April. Book via 08458 247600.
Friday 15th AprilMaidstone MuseumMake a pop-up Easter card. Drop in sessions between 10.30am–12.30noon and 1.30–3.30pm. £2.50
Saturday 16th April Shorne Woods Country Park Explorer Open Day. 10am–4pm. Action-packed day of children’s activities, guided tours, an archaeological
exhibition, woodcraft demonstrations and local stall-holder's displays. No booking required.
Saturday 16th AprilMaidstone MuseumEaster egg hunt. Follow the clues around the museum – an Easter egg for every completed hunt. 10.30am–4pm. £1 per child. Also on 22nd, 23rd and 25th April. And 17th and 24th (starts at 11.30am on these days).
Monday 18th April The Yalding GardensMake a pom pom Easter animal. Drop in sessions between 10am–12noon and 1–3pm. Make a pom pom the old fashioned way then turn it into an animal. £2.50
Monday 18th – 21st AprilMaidstone MuseumDrop in activities and crafts. Monday 18th – make sock bunnies, Tuesday 19th –make an Easter egg cosy, Wednesday 20th – make bouncing bugs to decorate
Free
Free
£1
For details of other local events and news for families join our e-newsletter list by emailing [email protected] or visit our website www.kenfamilymagazine.co.uk
While we make every effort to ensure times, dates and prices are correct, please contact the location in advance to confirm these.
your room and on Friday 21st make an Easter egg basket. Sessions take place between 10.30am–12noon and 1.30–3.30pm. £2.50
Monday 18th – 21st AprilThis Art of Mine, near BearstedMake a beaded flower window charm 1.30–3pm. Also on Tuesday 12th – design your own t-shirt, Wednesday 13th – make your own rabbit hand puppet, Thursday 14th April – make pom pom chicks for Easter. All workshops take place between 1.30–3pm. £10 per child. To book call Gemma on 0779 2541149.
Wednesday 13th AprilThe Yalding GardensBug hunting sessions at 10.30–11.30am and 1.30–2.30pm (arrive 15 minutes before the start of the session) £2.50. Suitable for accompanied children of all ages.
Friday 22nd AprilManor Park Country Park, West Malling Easter Bunny Hunt. Follow trail clues and win a prize from the Easter Bunny herself. 10am–3pm. £4 per child. No booking required. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Friday 22nd AprilThe Yalding GardensMake an Easter card. Drop in between 10am–12noon and 1–3pm £2.50 Suitable for all ages.
Friday 22nd – 25th AprilThe Yalding Gardens Easter bunny hunt. Find hidden Easter bunnies around the gardens to win a chocolate egg. Free hunt
with each child entry to the gardens (Admission: adults £6, children £3.00, family £14).
Saturday 23rd AprilCobtree Manor Country Park, Nr Aylesford/MaidstoneHi-tech Easter Wildlife Trail. Use satellites to find clues around the park. Approx 1 hour per trail. Call 01622 683695 to book a time slot.
Saturday 23rd April Riverside Country Park, RainhamThe English Festival. 11am–5pm. On St George’s Day, experience a flavour of the things that help make England great. A quirky look at some of England's most iconic eras. Attractions include a 10- foot animatronic dragon, medieval knights, a man- made beach, donkey rides, the sights and sounds of the 60s and marauding pirates. No need to book. Free park and ride on a red Routemaster from Dockside Outlet Centre between 10.30am and 5.30pm.
Sunday 24th and Monday 25th AprilChatham Historic DockyardMonsters of Steam and Metal. Festival of Steam and Transport with more than 500 vehicles including tractors, emergency vehicles, motorbikes and vintage buses. Admission prices apply.
Saturday 30th April – 1st May Rochester Sweeps Festival Rochester Castle Gardens and surrounding areas, Three-day festival celebrating the traditional holiday for chimney sweeps. Morris dancing, live music and family activities throughout the weekend. For a full programme of events and activities visit: www.whatsonmedway.gov.uk
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Facepainting, Glitter Parties and more.
Call Lisa 01474 702523 / 07932 665516
www.littlepoppetsfacepainting.co.uk
Little Poppets
07914 552280www.jungletots.co.uk
Fully insured, friendly& reliable service
Having a party but not sure how tokeep the little monkeys entertained?
Jungle Tots Party HireSoft play equipment, bouncy castle,
large ball pool, happy hopperz,tents & tunnels maze, & much more...
Unlimited play & arty parties for 0-5’s
Childrens parties - christeningsbirthdays - weddings - fetes
nurseries - indoor & outdoor use
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20 www.kentfamilymagazine.co.uk
SPRING IS HERE. AND WITH THE WARMER WEATHER TEMPTING US OUTSIDE AGAIN, IT’S A WONDERFUL TIME TO REDISCOVER NATURE. So we met up for a chat with Sam Edwards, who took over the running of The Yalding Gardens with her partner Paul Smith last summer. Her passion and enthusiasm for making them a creative and educational resource for families and the local community shines though. Not surprising when you find out that Sam previously spent six years working with children, families and
schools including three years as Maidstone Museum’s Learning and Access Officer.
“I strongly believe in letting kids do the things they enjoy, not what adults think they should do”, says Sam. “Most children are fascinated by bugs, worms, dirt, creepy crawlies and the wonders of nature, yet it’s not always possible for them to examine the simple things that are all around them. At The Yalding
Gardens we encourage children to explore. So we run regular themed events in the school holidays with activities such as wormery making, bug hunting and pond dipping.
“For everyday visits, we provide children with an activity pack. They can choose from ‘garden detective’ which contains a bug chart, magnifying glass and lots of ideas about what to look out for, an arts and craft pack ‘collage and collect’ or our new ‘match box challenge’ where children see how many items they can fit into their personalised matchbox.
“Our family-friendly café, The Bushel Box, provides jugs of
EXPLORE NATURE AT YALDING
Days out
with a cup of coffee and slice of cake. The room can also be sectioned off for our activities. We run regular workshops for adults and children on a range of topics from flower arranging to cupcake decorating.”
Having sampled their coffee and walnut cake we can heartily recommend their home-cooked food from The Bushel Café. The majority of their ingredients are locally sourced from nearby farms and their own gardens. Cakes are freshly cooked each day, they cater for a wide variety of diets
including gluten-free and vegan and have a menu ranging from light snacks, breakfasts, lunches and roast dinner on Sundays.
Oh, and finally the gardens! 18 beautiful gardens set in five acres of Kent countryside. From a 13th century apothecary’s garden to a Victorian artisan’s glasshouse and even a modern day vegetable plot – they are an inspiration to how organic gardening methods can produce stunning results. This year their children’s garden is being redone with a fairytale theme to show children the real inspirations behind classic tales such as ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ and ‘The Enormous Turnip’.
to advertise call 01634 814364 21
juice for £1.50 and a range of child-friendly snacks and meals. The café opens onto our lovely outdoor seating area and large green space for children to play. In fair weather we put out skipping ropes, jumping sacks, hula hoops, a cricket set and soft mats for children to relax on.
“Adjacent to the main café we have a room with activity stations, books, craft materials and a wealth of resources about nature, it’s a space where children can do arts and craft or read while their parents relax
Visitor information:The Yalding Gardens is situated on the B2162 half a mile from the centre of Yalding Village. Entrance to the café and outside green space is free. Children’s acitivies usually have a small fee. Family ticket to the gardens is £14. For visitor information, events, children’s parties and activity ideas visit www.yaldinggardens.org
Pre-school activitiesIn response to requests from local parents they run a monthly pre-school session. Help your child with arts and crafts then relax with a drink and a mini treat while children listen to storytelling. 1.45-2.30pm, 2nd Monday each month. £3.50.
22 www.kentfamilymagazine.co.uk
The world’s fi rst pre-school football programme.
Improve your child’s:● Football skills● Co-ordination ● Balance● Social skills● Self confi dence
As well as being fantastic fun!
Classes in Medway, Maidstone and Sittingbourne. Walkers to age 5.
01795 471412 / 07950 [email protected] www.socatots.com
For classes in Rochester and GravesendCall Claire on 07754 866592
or email: [email protected]
Our unique classes are bursting with fun games and activities that boost children’s natural speech and language development. Talking Tots provides the
perfect combination of fun, stimulation and learning for children from 12 months to five years.
Fun classes that help children to communicate with confidence
N Social confidenceN Listening and attentionN Sharing and turn-takingN Vocabulary buildingN Pre-literacy skills
Tumble Tots is Britain's leading NationalActive Physical Play Programme forchildren from 6 months to 7 years
Please call on: 01634 682760 or visit:www.tumbletots.com/medway
Classes at Medway, Maidstone West and Meopham
• Using specifically designed equipment yourchild will learn agility, balance, climbing andco-ordination skills.
• A structured fun programme designed to buildself confidence and develop essential listening& language skills.
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This unique programme combines the benefits of both music and baby signing to stimulate your baby’s speech and language development. Hearing babies from as young as 7 months are using gestures to communicate BEFORE their first words.
For more information on our multi-award winning classes in Medway and Maidstone contact Lorraine on
Baby Signing the FUN way!!
BOOK NOW FOR MAY CLASSES
07954 439579 [email protected]
Baby & toddlersoft play activity
sessions07914 552280
www.jungletots.co.uk
Bored with the “regular” toddler groups?Then come to Jungle Tots...
Sessions designed specifically for non-walkers& walkers, combining soft play, music & art,at venues in & around the Maidstone area.
View our website for full session details.
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to advertise call 01634 814364 23
Peaceful, park like surrondings
What we offer
Highly committed,experienced staff
Safe and secure premises
Large full equipped outdoor play areas
Extensive range of modern toys and equipment
Open 08:00 to 18:00 (Later finishes can be Open 08:00 to 18:00 (Later finishes can be arranged)
Open 51 weeks a year
Government funded term time places of 15 hours
Excellent Breakfast, Afterschool and Holiday Clubs
Visit: www.kindernurseries.co.uk to see our activity plans for Easter Holiday Club!!
Kinder Nurseries has highly qualified experienced staff, who provide children aged from 3 months to 5 years with a wide variety of fun activities in a deeply caring and secure environment.
We have 9 nurseries located across Kent, all situated in peaceful park-like surrondings that offer continual opportunities for outside play whatever the weather.
Allington, MaidstoneClare Park, East MallingSouth Avenue, Sittingbourne
Hempstead, GillinghamMeredale, RainhamBrompton, Gillingham
Hadlow, TonbridgeOakfield, GravesendMeopham, Meopham Web: www.kindernurseries.co.uk
Contact us:Tel: 01634 230222Email: [email protected]
Our Locations:
Welcome to Kinder Nurseries
2 to 4year oldsCreativePhysical
FunCertificates
PartiesNurseryClasses
Free trial
Making Movement Matter!Classes in:
MAIDSTONE, KINGS HILL, WALDERSLADE, STROOD AND ST MARY'S ISLAND
Call Lisa Jarrett on01634 682181
There’s nothing quite like Dinky Dancers
Part-time class leaders wanted. Call for details
24 www.kentmama.co.uk
Toddler Talk
Event managers Weekends r us and Larkfield-based indoor play area Tiny Town are coming together to put on a Baby and Children's Event. Taking place between 11am and 4pm on Sunday 8th May, Tiny Town will
Peppa Pig Fever
be hosting a variety of local businesses aimed at parents and children. Offering everything from face painting, jewellery making, children's clothes, photography and more.
Family Event at Tiny TownFor a sweet treat Gravesend-
based Cake Pop Princess sells Peppa pig cake pops. Ideal for parties and special occasions. From £1.75 each.www.cakepopprincess.co.uk
Transform yourself (or another willing adult!) into Peppa herself. Maidstone Bouncy Castles hire out Peppa Pig costumes from £40 per day. Call 01732 323334.
Peppa Pig is coming to Kent! On 27th and 28th April the award-winning TV show will
be recreated on stage, featuring true-to-life puppets at The Central Theatre,
Chatham. www.whatsonmedway.co.uk
Toddler Talk
Popular baby and toddler signing sessions Sing and Sign have started new classes in Cuxton. Taking place on Tuesday afternoons
Sing and Sign in Cuxtonat Cuxton Library, the new term starts on 3rd May. Suitable for babies from 6 months upwards. To book call Lorraine Murray on 07954 439579.
If the idea of holding a party for a group of energetic toddlers or pre-schoolers fills you with fear, there are a plenty of local pre-school class leaders who also offer their services at children’s parties.
Socatots parties use some of the skills and exercises that the children use during the normal Socatots sessions,
PARTY TIME
and mix them with more traditional party games – all done with a football slant. Lasting for 1 to 1½ hours, their parties keep the children on their feet, having fun and burning energy. Call Darren on 01795 471412 for details.
Dinky Dancers specialise in movement-based parties that combine games, dance and PE activity, for
to advertise call 01634 814364 25
What’s On
Little tigers to tame? Cheeky monkeys to entertain? New pre-school classes Jungle Tots, are coming to Maidstone.
Set up by Karen Alabaster, a mum of one-year-old twins who lives in Bearsted, the classes are a new baby and toddler activity group that combine music, art and soft play – allowing your child to learn and develop whilst having fun.
Says Karen: “We’re not a franchise, I have devised a programme to provide safe and fun play for both babies and toddlers, with specific sessions for non-walkers and walkers to avoid those usual toddler-group ‘accidents’. I have invested in a wide range of soft play equipment including a bouncy castle and tunnel maze, meeting the highest standards of safety. All of which is cleaned and maintained regularly so your babies and toddlers can enjoy a soft play experience in a safe age-specific group, with the highest standards of cleanliness.”
Jungle Tots classes will be launching end of March with classes in Barming, Loose, Allington and central Maidstone. They also provide great value children’s parties with varying themes and full use of their soft play equipment. For more information contact Karen on 07914 552280 or visit www.jungletots.co.uk
Jungle Tots seek little monkeys
There are plenty of arts and crafts activities for your little ones taking place at Maidstone Museum this Easter. Running most weekdays between 10.30am–12.30pm and 1.30–3.30pm and costing £2.50 per child, you can choose from: crazy grass heads, pop up Easter cards, sock bunnies and more. Drop in events, no need to book.
children aged 2-8 years. "They are lots of fun, with high energy, music, singing and action activity," says Lisa Jarrett who runs Dinky Dancers classes in Medway and Maidstone. "Parties last for 1 hour and we arrive 15 minutes before the party starts to set up. Parties can be inside or outside - wherever there is enough space". For more information call Lisa on 01634 682181.
"We can entertain everyone from the tiniest baby, to big brothers and sisters, mums, dads and grandparents," says Caterpillar Music's Jo Skinner. Lasting for 1 hour, the parties use a combination of simple party games, action songs,
instruments and puppets to provide a party where young children can join in as much as they want to. For details call 01634 670370.
Jo Jingles offer a musical party for children up to the age of 5 years. Jo Jingles parties are based around action songs, dancing and musical instruments. Choose from their range of party props - such as the parachute, bubbles or streamers (to name just 3!) to create a fun atmosphere. The birthday child gets a birthday card and sticker and party invitations are included in the price. For more information please contact Jo on 01634 310676.
26 www.kentfamilymagazine.co.uk
Mama & Baby
Maternity Reflexologist Georgina Strickland isrunning a series of reflexlology workshops aimed at parents of 0-3 year olds. Baby Reflex workshops teach parents how to give specially adapted, simple and effective reflexology to their children. The course is split into three workshops covering feeding and digesting, sleeping and comforting and general wellbeing (including teething and colds). Courses will run in Medway and Maidstone. Visit www.lifespanreflexology.co.uk for more info or call Georgina on 07870 409681.
Reflexology for Babies
Although Maidstone's Pregalicious may have closed its doors this month, the maternity wear shop will still be continuing it's popular bra fitting service.
"Expert fitting of maternity and nursing bras is a must," says Lisa Skinner. "By getting properly fitted our customers are more supported yet comfortable and avoid expensive mistakes."
The service will cover mid-Kent and enable mums-to-be to choose from a wide range of styles in the comfort of their own home. Call 01622 726869.
HOME BRA FITTING SERVICE
Babies, as young as six months old, now have a new way of making themselves understood, many months before they utter their first word. Thanks to a new class in Maidstone for babies and their parents/carers – Baby Signers.
Louise Perry, who lives in Maidstone with her husband and young son, is the Babysigners teacher for Maidstone, Staplehurst and the surrounding areas.
She says: “I have been a Drama and Theatre Studies teacher for 11 years now, and am passionate about sharing my enthusiasm and love for learning. Being a recent new mum, I have introduced baby sign language with my son. We are having lots of fun and are enjoying learning how
Baby Signerscomes to Maidstone
to communicate with each other. Signing is a fantastic skill that can enable you to understand your child’s thoughts, feelings, likes and dislikes as well as strengthening the bond and trust between you both.”
Classes currently run in central Maidstone and Parkwood and help parents learn how to use signs easily and simply in their everyday life. The classes are small and friendly, typically around 8 – 12 parents and their babies, and have a friendly atmosphere with songs, puppets and stories to keep it all fun. For details contact Louise on 07799 614376 or email [email protected]
FREE taster session at the ELC, Fremlin Walk on Tuesday 5th April at 11am.
Pass it on...Southcote Exercise & Rehabilitation Centre on Sittingbourne Road, Maidstone will be hosting their next Naturally Healthy Pregnancy Evening on Friday 10th June, between 6 and 8pm. Advice, information, free treatments and demonstrations.
NEW
to advertise call 01634 814364 27
Helping to ease many conditions including:
Sickness & nauseaBack pain & sciatica
Overdue babyStress & anxiety
Blood pressure fluctuationsDigestive disorders
Sleep disordersPostnatal problems
... and moreCall Georgina Strickland MAR01634 313158 / 07870 409681 www.lifespanreflexology.co.uk
Just For Ki dzQUALITY USED AND NEARLY NEW
l children’s clothing l toysl prams and pushchairs
l cots and nursery equipmentl from prem baby to 5
01634 819887Open Mon – Sat 10am til 5pm
www.just-for-kidz.co.uk
126 High Street, Rochester (Opposite Casino)New stock weekly. We buy and sell.
Fun & friendly classes in Maidstone. Each week has a different theme,explored through stories, songs,
puppetry and rhymes.
Benefits:l Enhances communication
l Provides a new insight into your baby’s world
l Strengthens the bond between you and your baby
l Accelerates your baby’s language development
l Reduces frustration and tantrums
6 week beginners course £45To book call Louise on 07799 614376
www.babysigners.co.uk
NEW
Bump and
beyond
After the birth:l In the first few weeks, restrict your exercise to walking and pelvic floor exercises until you've had your first GP check.
l Whether breast or bottle feeding you will find yourself being pulled forward. Practice exercises to strengthen your upper back and stretch out your chest.
l Correct buggy posture, particularly when pushing uphill is essential to ensure you are using the large muscle groups of your legs and buttocks, rather than placing undue pressure on your back. Always keep 'hips to handles'.
l Be aware of your posture:spread your weight equally between both feet; slide your shoulders down and relax your elbows; lengthen your tailbone towards the floor, keeping your buttocks relaxed; extend your spine upwards; lengthen the neck keeping the chin parallel to the floor; look straight ahead.
l Most importantly, take your time, it took 9 months for your baby weight to go on, allow the same amount of time for the weight to come off. Incorrect exercise choices such as sit-ups and anything high impact will put you at risk of injury.
Emma Goodman is a qualified pre and postnatal exercise specialist. As well as group and one-to-one sessions she runs Pushy Mothers, a post natal buggy workout, at Mote Park. Contact Emma on 07811 209452 or visit www.preandpostnatalexercise.co.uk
Pregnancy is a very special time, when your body is growing and nurturing a new life inside you. Many pregnant women want to continue to exercise throughout their pregnancy to maintain their fitness, prepare for the birth and aid a quicker recovery.
As a pre and postnatal exercise specialist at Southcote Rehabilitation & Exercise Centre in Maidstone, I am passionate that women exercise during their pregnancy and postnatally. But it's essential exercise is done in a safe, gradual way.
There is too much pressure on women today to get back to their pre-pregnancy weight quickly, sometimes with little regard for the safety of mother and baby.
My aim is to educate mums-to-be on the adaptations that are needed to support their changing body and developing baby. The focus must definitely change, it is
no longer about how many reps you can do or how far you can run. But instead you should concentrate on maintaining current fitness and working on areas that will become weaker as the pregnancy progresses.
Regular cardio-vascular exercise can help to maintain fitness and therefore help you to cope with the demands of labour, but it is important to choose safe exercises that don’t put a strain on your growing bump. So give high impact aerobics, Zumba and jogging a miss and instead opt for pregnancy aerobics, ante-natal yoga and walking.
By Emma Goodman
28 www.kentfamilymagazine.co.uk
Wellbeing
to advertise call 01634 814364 29
emma goodman
bump, baby & beyondpersonal raining
Specialist personal training and exercise classes for women who want an active, healthy pregnancy...and beyond
l Minimise the effects of pregnancy on posturel Strengthen core and pelvic floorl Get back into shape
For more details about group classes and one to one sessions Contact Emma: 07811 209452
emma@preandpostnatalexercise.co.ukwww.preandpostnatalexercise.co.uk
* Pregnancy Yoga classes also available
Postnatal Yoga For
Mother and Baby
For more information: Tel: 07914601083 Email: [email protected] Web: http://www.birthcomfort.co.uk/bbcise.htm
Courses held in the Maidstone & Sevenoaks area
Fun, interactive classes combining postnatal and baby yoga with nursery rhymes, massage and
sensory play
Suitable from 6 weeks upwards
Fun, interactive classes combining postnatal and baby yoga with nursery rhymes, massage and sensory play.
Suitable from 6 weeks upwards.
CLASSES IN MAIDSTONE AND SEVENOAKS AREA.
Call Pippa on 07914 [email protected]/bbcise.htm
Postnatal Yoga for Mother and Baby
Pregnancy yoga classes
also available
Please call on: 01634 682760 or visit:www.tumbletots.com/medway
Classes at Medway, Maidstone West and Meopham
• Exercises and colourful equipment to encourage your baby to sit, crawl and eventually walk!
• Action songs & rhymes to develop listening skills and enjoyment of music.
Gymbabes classes are tailor madefor babies from 6 months upwards and hasbeen voted Best children’s activity provider byTommys’ baby friendly awards.
Give your babya head start in life!
Gymbabe Ad 64x60>16710 aw:Layout 1 28/7/10
t Directory of local businessest Advertising informationt Latest newst What’s ont Past issuest Spotlight on businessest Competitionst Join our mailing list
The best news for families in Kent
www.kentfamilymagazine.co.uk
Summer holiday days out l Kent in a tent l Party ideas l Days out l Places to visit l The 11+ explained l Toddler talk
Summer Issue Out 27th June
Coming up
to advertise call 01634 814364 31
Heroes Wanted at LEGOLAND® Windsor! Be the hero of your very own adventure and experience over 55 interactive rides and attractions at LEGOLAND Windsor as it celebrates its 15th Birthday. Captain a vessel, earn your own drivers licence or get the whole family together in high energy fun at Fire Academy. From early summer, join LEGO divers on a fun fishy mission – a new world-first ride coming to LEGOLAND.
There’s just too much to experience in one day! Begin your journey of discovery today at www.LEGOLAND.co.uk. We open again for the 2011 season on 1st April and the winners tickets will be valid for any one day until the end of the season on 6th November.
WINOne of five family ticketsto LEGOLANDWindsor
Good luck!
LEGOLAND are giving Kent Family readers the chance to win one of five family of four tickets to LEGOLAND Windsor, worth £160.
Enter via our website at www.kentfamilymagazine.co.ukOr send your name, phone number and address to [email protected] Postal entries to Kent Family Magazine, 91 Maidstone Rd, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1RL.
Closing date: 15th April 2011
For full terms and conditions visit our website:www.kentfamilymagazine.co.uk
LEGO, the LEGO logo and LEGOLAND are trademarks of the LEGO Group ©2011
