Professional Documents
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CLUBS & CLASSES EDITION Packed with information and fun things to do with the family in Maidenhead, Windsor, Marlow, Ascot, Slough & Egham
Black, brown and navy school shoes always in stock 14 Oxford Road, Marlow, Bucks. SL7 2NL. 20 High Street, Wallingford, Oxon. OX10 0BP.
01628 475576
info@doogies.co.uk www.doogies.co.uk
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News & Information Clubs & Classes Health Back to School Healthy Lunch Boxes Dyslexia: Myths and Misconceptions Maths Review Cooking: Delicious Pumpkin Scones PO.P in the Park Competitions Time Out Gardening Parenting Eds Reading Room Bumps n Babes Mums Who Mean Business Classified
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A NEW company has been awarded the contract for school meals in the borough of Windsor and Maidenhead. The council has awarded the 1.5million per year schools catering contract to Cater Link Ltd, the UK's leading contract caterer in the education market They will supply meals to 41 schools in the borough for five years from this September. The decision follows a strict tendering process in which seven companies bid for the contract. Schools and governors were consulted for their views and visits were made to schools to test sample menus.
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Cover credits: Photographer: MARK HENDERSON 01628 855863 07976 354031 www.markhphoto.co.uk Models: OLIVIA and LARA
open all year, with the exception of bank holidays and Christmas. The nursery was also recently awarded a Good in their Ofsted Inspection (October 2009). They have Open Days on 27 September and 18 October; please contact the Nursery Manager on 01628 778890 if you would like to attend, quoting ref: FAMSEPT10
WRAPAROUND CHILDCARE
We are open seven days a week, offer fixed and flexible childcare and pick-up/drop-offs from designated areas
01753 853155
Email us at: wraparoundchildcare@hotmail.co.uk www.wrap-aroundchildcare.co.uk
01628 529414
www.cookhammontessori.com
Telephone: 01628 627 586
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010
Rachel
for all ages and levels
in Ascot, Crowthorne, Maidenhead, Windsor and Twyford.
Open Monday to Friday 8 til 6 48 weeks per year 01628 829896 e-mail: bcdn@hotmail.co.uk
Fun and friendly singing groups for 0-5 year olds and their parents or carers.
We have a singer and musician at each group to create exciting live music. Children and parents love the action songs, rhymes, knee-bouncers, dances, percussion instruments, story songs and colouring pictures. There is hour after the session for coffee and a chat. All sessions are drop-in
Maidenhead, Marlow & High Wycombe Tel: 01628-671146 or 639878 Twyford: Tel. 01628-825315 Windsor: Tel. 01628-671146 Burnham Tel: 01628-605091 For further information visit www.teddiesmusicclub.co.uk
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
THIS term, Perform children will be galloping off to The Wild West, They will be learning songs, dances, tongue twisters, rhymes and raps, and acting out weekly improvisations. The classes are for 4 to 8 year olds and have a showcase for friends and family at the end of term. In addition, Perform Plus, for 8 to 12 year olds classes is celebrating the theme, The Christmas Carol and, due to popular demand, a school for the older children is opening in Windsor this September. Classes are also available in Maidenhead, Windsor, Marlow, Cookham Dean,Virginia Water and Warfield. To book or for a free trial session call 0845 400 1282. www.perform.org.uk
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010
ATHLETICS
British Athletics has lists of local clubs. See www.british-athletics.co.uk/clubs MAIDENHEAD JUNIOR ATHLETICS CLUB (track and field sports). Ages: 7-15. Location: Braywick Park (summer) or Courthouse Junior School, Blenheim Road (October to March). Go to www.maidehnheadac.co.uk to go on the waiting list. SUPERTRACK. Age: 5-15. Location:Thames Valley Athletics Centre, Pococks Lane, Eton, after school on Wednesdays. 01753 770037. www.sloughleisure.co.uk/tvac Windsor, Slough, Eton and Hounslow Athletics Club. Age: 11+. Location: Pococks Lane, Eton, on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm. 01753 686169.
BABY DEVELOPMENT
BABY COLLEGE (baby development classes). Ages: birth to 3. Locations: Esporta Health Club, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Mondays and Tuesdays. Pre-book. 01344 885146. www.babycollege.co.uk .
BABY MASSAGE
THE MATERNITY NETWORK. Directory of local classes including Baby massage, yoga and recommended classes on chat forum. Bucks, Berks and Oxon. www.thematernitynetwork.co.uk
ARCHAEOLOGY
YOUNG ARCHAEOLOGISTS CLUB (field trips, games, crafts). Age: 8-16. Location: Chertsey Museum. Booking required. 01932 565764; www.chertseymuseum.org.uk
ARCHERY
BERKSHIRE ARCHERY ASSOCIATION. Junior classes from 9 +. www.berkshirearchery.co.uk
BOARD GAMES
MAIDENHEAD JUNIOR CHESS CLUB (play and tuition). Ages: 5-18. Saturdays 9.30am-11.15am term time at Ridgeway School, Maidenhead Thicket. Just turn up. 3. 01491 576052. nigelwdennis@btinternet.com.
COOKERY
CRAFTY COOKS (pre-school cookery club). Age: 2 1/2-5. Location: Marlow. Bookable termly. 01628 476670. www.craftycooks.co.uk
CRICKET
Lots of local cricket clubs have a junior section and coaching. For more information, go to www.bycl.org EGHAM CRICKET CLUB COLTS. Ages: from under 8s to under 15s. Location, Egham, on Monday evenings. 01784 435762.
DANCE
BELLYDANCING LESSONS with Rachel for all ages and levels in Ascot, Crowthorne, Maidenhead,Windsor and Twyford. Rachel is CRB checked and a family-friendly entertainer who adds sparkle to special events, from parties to weddings. Call Rachel on 07858 480 814, email Rachel@rachelbellydancer.com or visit www.rachelbellydancer.com.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
BLOSSOM BALLET (Pre school dance for 18 months 5 years) Classes in Windsor throughout the week and in Bracknell on Monday mornings. Free taster class for all new pupils. Contact Miss Lucy to reserve a place info@blossomballet.com. 07813084283 HAWTHORNE SCHOOL OF DANCE Classes in Ballet, Tap and Street Jazz and Adult Fitness in Windsor on Monday afternoons. Free taster class for all new pupils. Contact Miss Lucy to reserve a place info@hawthorneschoolofdance.com. 07813 084283 ELITE ACADEMY OF DANCE (ballet, tap, modern, jazz, street jazz, musical theatre, ballroom and Latin, wedding dances, private tuition, exam coaching). Ages: From 3 years, teenagers and adults, beginners to advanced in Maidenhead and at our studio in Beaconsfield. Free trial lesson. 01628 825028. JEANNINE GREVILLE DANCE ACADEMIES (RAD ballet, jazz, tap and acrobatics). Age: 21/2+. Locations: Marlow, Bourne End and Twyford. Free trial lesson. 01491 572000. www.jgdance.co.uk POPSTARS DANCE ACADEMY. Street Dance Classes for ages 4-11 featuring choreographed routines & dance techniques to current chart music and Popstar favourites Street, Hip-Hop & Freestyle Dance with dance props. Classes in Burnham, Iver & Maidenhead. To Book a FREE Trial call 01753 538 525 or visit www.PopstarsAcademy.com THE SUSAN HANDY SCHOOL OF DANCING (Cecchetti dancing school teaching ballet, contemporary, tap, modern jazz and music and movement). Ages: 21/2-18+. Locations: Eton, Windsor, Datchet and Lyne. Book termly. 01753 542672 or 07515 270432. ORCHARD ACADEMY OF DANCE AND THEATRE ARTS (I.S.T.D. Ballet, Tap & Modern Theatre Dance). Pupils can join at any age from rising 3s to early 20s. NEW for Autumn 2010: Musical Theatre Classes, Street Dance lessons and Tap for Adults. Location: St Andrews Church Centre, Rogers Lane, Stoke Poges SL2 4LN. Pre-book with Principal JEAN ORCHARD L.I.S.T.D. 01753 663484 or email OrchardAcademy@aol.com. www.OrchardAcademy.com REDROOFS (ballet, modern, jazz, tap). Age: 3-18. Location: Maidenhead. 01628 822982. www.redroofs.co.uk BOLLYWOOD DANCE (classical dance mixed with a more contemporary style). Age: 6 +. Location: Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 01628 682555. www.nordenfarm.org ELIZABETH FENTON SCHOOL OF DANCING (ballet, modern, tap, national and jazz). Age: 3+. Location: Four Marlow Road, Maidenhead. 01628 625343. KATHAK DANCE (classical dance of northern India). Ages: 4-18. Location: Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 01628 788997. www.nordenfarm.org. NORDEN EXPOSURE YOUTH DANCE (contemporary dance). Age: Junior Norden Exposure, 9-14 years, Norden Exposure Academy, 15+. Location: Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 01628 788997. www.nordenfarm.org TWINKLE TOTS (Fun introduction to ballet). Age: 2-4 years. Classes running in Langley, Windsor, Dorney, Sunningdale. Contact Maggie on 07828 857061; www.twinkletotsdance.com
FOOTBALL
Most local football clubs also have junior teams. Look at www.thefa.com under the Grassroots section for local contacts. LITTLE KICKERS (football training). Ages: 18 months 7 years. Locations: Licensed Victuallers, Ascot, Langley Grammar School, Windsor Boys School, TVAC, Eton and Clewer Youth and Community Centre, Windsor; St Pirans School, Maidenhead, Sir William Borlase, Marlow, Court Garden, Marlow and Bourne End Community Centre, Henley Leisure Centre, Harpsden Village Hall, Henley and Stokenchurch. For Ascot, Langley, Windsor and Eton call 01993 851550. For Maidenhead, Bourne End, Henley, Marlow and Stokenchurch call 01628 526584. www.littlekickers.co.uk
GOLF
THE GOLF SCHOOL. Ages 7+. Location: Bisham Abbey. 07792 219 490. www.thegolfschool.org.uk MAIDENHEAD GOLF CENTRE (individual and group tuition, including Young Masters Golf courses). Ages: 7+ for courses; younger for individual tuition). Location: Braywick Park. 01628 676910.
GYMNASTICS/EXERCISE
GYMTOTS (pre-school gymnastics). Age: walking to 3+, accompanied by adult. Location: Altwood School, Maidenhead, 10am Wednesday to Saturday. 07957 223124 GYMTOTS (advanced class). Age: 3-5 years, unaccompanied. Location: Altwood School, Maidenhead at 3pm, Weds. 07957 223 124. MAIDENHEAD GYMNASTICS CLUB Age: 4-14. Location: Altwood School, Maidenhead, after school and Saturdays. 07957 223 124. PHOENIX GYMNASTICS. Ages: teeny gym, 18 months to 3 years, mini gym, 3-5 years, bridging class, 5-7 years, recreational gym, 7+. Location: Maidenhead Road, Windsor. 01628 778881. www.phoenixgym.co.uk LETS GO MUMMY! A Fun New exercise class which allows mummy and baby to exercise together. Suitable from 8 weeks to crawling. Location: Maidenhead. For more info call: Sarah 07938-588-029 or visit www.gofigure.org.uk SIMAS ACTION KIDS (fun fitness classes set to music). Age: walking to 5. Locations: Magnet Leisure Centre, Maidenhead. 07956 993 439. www.simasactionkids.com
ORCHARD
Academy of Dance & Theatre Arts
Est. 1981 Principal: Jean Orchard L.I.S.T.D.
L RO EN W! NO
HOCKEY
For details of your nearest club, see www.englandhockey.co.uk MAIDENHEAD HOCKEY CLUB. Age: 6-18. Location: Maidenhead and Bray Sports Club, High Street, Bray. 01628 622669. www.maidenheadhc.org.uk/
01753 663484
FAMILIES Thames Valley East
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010
LANGUAGES
DISCOVER DUTCH (fun language club for children). Age: 2-5, 5-8 years. Location: Marlow. 07948 246281. www.discoverdutch.co.uk
MARTIAL ARTS
LITTLE SAMURAI, Childrens Kickboxing Age:4 +. Location: Pinder Hall, Cookham, on Saturday mornings at 9am. Windsor on Saturday mornings at 11am. Call Matt Collins on: 07828 534817 for more details.
MUSIC
BERKSHIRE MAESTROS (singing lessons and instrument tuition) Age:babies-19. Locations: in schools and at its own music centres. 0118 901 2370, email: minimaestros@berkshiremaestros.org.uk; www.berkshiremaestros.org.uk KODLY MUSIC SCHOOL of Runnymede (kindermusik classes; tuition in violin, piano, flute, recorder and saxophone). Age: 2-18+. Locations: Various venues in Egham area. Nikhil Dally, 01932 241196. www.dally.org.uk/KMR MAD ACADEMY (Music-And-Dance with rhythms, songs, instruments, listening, games and birthday parties). Ages: 3 months to 4 years. Locations: Throughout the Families area. For Maidenhead, Marlow, Henley, and Charvil call Emma on 0118 979 2695. For Windsor, Ascot, Sunningdale and Farnham Royal call Nikki on 0118 978 8221; www.madacademy.com MUSIC BUGS (Fun music class for the under-5s) Ages: 6 months to 4 years. Locations: Dedworth, Cippenham and Langley. Call Roxanne on 0844 578 1048 or email roxanne@musicbugs.co.uk. musicbugs.co.uk MUSIC MATTERS. Not a franchise, Music Matters is a fun, active music group led by qualified Kodaly music teacher. Ages: babies to 11 years. Location: babies and pre-school Wooburn Green, Thursday a.m; Maidenhead, Wednesday a.m and Friday p.m. Knowl Hill, Friday a.m. Also, 4 to 11 year olds in Maidenhead after school, Tuesday. Booking required. First lesson free. 01628 622651. www.lynsmusicmatters.co.uk MUSIC WITH MUMMY (fun programme teaching basic aspects of music in three age groups: Jolly Babies (0-1 year) Music with Mummy (1-3 years) and Three Four Time (3-5 years, unaccompanied). Locations: Maidenhead, Windsor, Ascot, Sunningdale, Datchet, Iver and Langley . For Maidenhead 07966 197035; Windsor 01344 301954; Ascot 01753 850772; Datchet, Iver and Langley 01753 540949. www.musicwithmummy.co.uk STEPPING NOTES MUSIC SCHOOL (structured programme of group musicianship classes for children). Ages: 2-8. Location: Jurgens Centre, 91 Harvest Road, Englefield Green. Nikhil Dally, 01932 241196. www.dally.org.uk/steppingnotes
NATURE
IVER NATURE STUDY CENTRE. Ages: 3-5 (pre-school nature play). Also, nature-based craft sessions for children aged 5-9 during the holidays. 01895 270730. www.ivernature.com BRAYWICK WILDLIFE WATCH GROUP (hands-on education in wildlife and the environment, run by the Royal Borough). Ages: 7-12. Location: Braywick Nature Centre, Hibbert Road, Maidenhead. 01628 777440.
NETBALL
MAIDENHEAD & DISTRICT JUNIOR NETBALL. Ages 7-14. Locations: Maidenhead, Windsor and Ascot. 01628 633714.
ORIENTEERING
BERKSHIRE ORIENTEERS (events held once a month from September to April at various locations) Ages: 3+ with an adult. 0118 934 5412. www.bko.org.uk
PERFORMING ARTS
AZURE THEATRE SCHOOL (Provding classes in all apects of performing arts, ISTD dance examinations & regular performances in a fun nurturing environment) Ages 2 adult. Location: Maidenhead, Slough, Marlow & Cookham. Booking required. FREE trial class. Call Kelly-Marie Gibbs, Principal on 07789 264 639 or email azuretheatreschool@yahoo.co.uk or visit www.azuretheatreschool.com DEBUTOTS (Early Years Drama). Ages: 6 mths-2 and 2-7. Locations: Egham and Staines. Baby Story Play and Early Years Drama classes will improve confidence and self esteem. FREE TRIAL CLASS. Call Rachael Cunningham on 0118 9472698 or email swhomecounties@debutots.co.uk for further details. www.debutots.co.uk
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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010
SWIMMING
JEMA SWIM SCHOOL (ASA Learn to swim and stroke improvement). Age: 3-18. Location: St Marys, Ascot. 01784 455205 or 07885 476279. SERIOUSLY FUN SWIM BABIES. Baby swimming classes for little ones aged 4 to 36 months.Venues: Crowne Plaza Hotel, Marlow; Teikyo Japanese School, Wexham; St. Pirans School, Maidenhead; Burnham Beeches Hotel, Burnham; Thames Club, Staines; Maplewood School, Downley. Call 01753 251 029 or visit www.seriouslyfun.com. SERIOUSLY FUN SWIMMING SCHOOLS. Swimming lessons during school terms and school holidays for kids aged 3 to 12 years.Venues: Teikyo Japanese School, Wexham; St. Pirans School, Maidenhead; Wycombe Abbey School, High Wycombe; Maplewood School, Downley.Visit www.seriouslyfun.com for more info.
TENNIS
DELGADO TENNIS (junior coaching led by Paul Delgado, former England Junior player). Age 4-16. Locations: St Pirans School and the Magnet Leisure Centre, Maidenhead; High Wycombe LTC. New term starts 7th September, see website for lesson times and bookings. Call: 07818 052 206. www.delgadotennis.co.uk MARLOW TENNIS ACADEMY. Ages: 5-16. Location: Court Garden Leisure Complex, Marlow. Indoor and outdoor tennis. LTA Licensed coaches. Call: Richard Mole on 01628 488438. SLOUGH TENNIS CENTRE (group and individual lessons). Ages: 4-adult. Location: Salt Hill Park, Slough. 01753 875587.www.sloughleisure.co.uk WINDSOR LAWN TENNIS CLUB (junior coaching). Age: 4-18. Location: Maidenhead Road, Windsor. 01753 830820. www.wltc.co.uk MAIDENHEAD LAWN TENNIS CLUB (junior coaching). Age 5-16. Location: 79 All Saints Avenue, Maidenhead. Tel: 01494 766464; www.ndmtennis.co.uk
REMOTE CONTROL
SLOUGH RC MODEL CLUB. Ages: all, but junior members must be accompanied by a club official. Location: Upton Court Park, Slough. www.srcmc.co.uk
UNIFORMED
To find your local GUIDES (ages 10-14), BROWNIES (ages 7-10) and RAINBOWS (ages 5-7), call 0800 169 5901. girlguiding.org.uk To find your local SCOUTS (ages 10-14), CUBS (ages 8-10) and BEAVERS (ages 6-8), call 0845 300 1818. scouts.org.uk ST JOHN BADGERS (first aid, arts and crafts, games, run by St John Ambulance). Ages: 5-10. Locations: various. St John Ambulance Cadets. Ages: 10-18. Locations: various. Berks 0118 933 5511; Bucks 01296 744360. sja.org.uk THE BOYS BRIGADE and THE GIRLS BRIGADE (games, crafts, sport, music, holidays and Christian teaching): Ages: 5-18. 01442 231681 (boys). boys-brigade.org.uk. 01235 510425 (girls). girlsb.org.uk THE SEA CADETS (fun, friendship and adventure with water-borne activities). Age: 10-18 (junior section, 10-12. Locations: include Mill Lane Taplow (01628 623089) and Stovell Road, Windsor (01753 860022). seacadets.ms-sc.org.
RUGBY
For details of local rugby clubs see www.rfu.com which can do a postcode search. RUGBY TOTS. Weekly play session for children aged between 2-7. Location: Maidenhead, Henley, Marlow and Windsor. Call 0845 313 3255; www.rugbytots.co.uk MAIDENHEAD RUGBY UNION FOOTBALL CLUB. Age: 5+. Location: Braywick Park Sports Ground. Maidenhead. www.maidenheadrfc.com.
SKIING / SNOWBOARDING
BRACKNELL SKI AND SNOWBOARD CENTRE (skiing lessons for 4+; snowboarding for 10+). Location: John Nike Leisure Centre, Bracknell. 01344 789 000. www.jnlbracknell.co.uk
SPORTS MULTIPLE
Theres a sport for everybody. The Sport England website www.sportengland.org has an A-Z of the different options, with links that take you to sporting bodies and venues at local levels.
WATERSPORTS
LONGRIDGE (sailing, kayaking, bell boating and paddle sport). Age 8-14 years. Location: Marlow. After school, weekends and school holidays. 01628 483252. www.longridge-uk.org
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YOGA
MUMMY AND BABY YOGA (safely rebuild core strength, stabilise lower back and pelvis, release upper back along with gentle yoga stretches and rhymes for babies) 6 weeks to crawling, classes in Burnham and Marlow. 07954 578 439. www.phenixyoga.com PREGNANCY YOGA (boost energy, ease stress, relieves aches and pains, cultiivates breath awareness, prepare physically and emotionally to give birth) 13-42 weeks pregnant, classes in Burnham and Marlow. 07954 578 439. www.phenixyoga.com
We recommend you call to double check details of classes, as they do change. For an even longer list, log on to www.familiestveast.co.uk, click on local directory and then go to Activities, Clubs and Classes.
Refreshments available
Phoenix Gymnastics Club Unit 1, Water Oakley Farm, Maidenhead Road, Windsor Tel:01628 778881 www.phoenixgym.co.uk
GYMTOTS!
PRE-SCHOOL GYMNASTICS
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Health
eliefs are what we hold to be true about our world and they change as we get older and have new experiences. For example, as small children we believed in Father Christmas but then later we found that he did not exist. We believed what our parents told us, what we learned at school and what we read about and saw on TV. Beliefs come from many different sources and are constantly reassessed in the light of new information. Our beliefs probably change most though when we become parents and our world changes considerably. Suddenly we are novices at what may be the most important and responsible job we will ever have. What beliefs about parenting do we bring to this new role? We read mother and baby magazines, watch TV programmes, read books and talk to friends who have had babies but our beliefs will also come from our own parents and what they did. The beliefs we accumulate from all these sources can either empower us or limit us. Beliefs that empower us are those which reassure us that we can trust our intuition and that we know best what our baby or child needs. We have skills we can draw upon from our work and social life that can be transferred to parenting. Some of us tend to forget this and separate the two roles not realising that skills are resources. Write down all the things you did in your job. Then write down what that means you can do as a parent. Ill start the list off with an example of my own. What I did in my job What that means I can do as a parent Meet deadlines Prioritise tasks and focus on the important ones _________________________________
Now go through the list on the right and read it out starting each one with I am someone who can ... Believing that you can do these things may challenge some of the beliefs you have inherited
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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Health News
Natures flu jab Olive Leaf Extracts powerful immune-supporting properties are also derived from its unique antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal qualities.Valued worldwide for its ability to fend off flus and colds, this essential extract proves a remarkable treatment for various types of infections. It remains clear why Dr. Morton Walker once called this extract natures antibiotic.* Olive Leaf Extract is suitable for vegetarians and contains no artificial flavours, colourings or preservatives and free from alcohol, sugar, lactose, yeast and gluten a natural and effective way to prevent, maintain, revive and recover! www.comvita.co.uk *Olive Leaf Extract by Dr. Morton Walker (1997)
Get your figure back quickly, the celebrity Mum way, using the famous Power Plate Wonder Machine.
Strong Vibes, the Power Plate Studio in Windsor, has classes on Monday and Thursday afternoons, with a post-natal specialist trainer. Maximum of five in a class, babies welcome!
For information and class times - Phone 01753 858357 or email info@strongvibes.co.uk
FIRST FLOOR, DONNELLY HOUSE, 4 VICTORIA STREET (OPP. 39-45) WINDSOR, SL4 1EN
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their website is parker coat, packed with Black 35; useful advice on Easy-care how to go about trousers, Dark Grey, gathering the from 6; momentum, the John Lewis single documents, the velcro strap funding and the leather shoes, premises you Black 20. need to make a 08456 049 049. school happen. www.johnlewis.com Setting up a new school, as the site says, isnt easy but the network aims to make it as easy as possible and promises that it will shortly be publishing data on sites, budgeting and detailed guides on the process of setting up a school from start to finish. Despite the major cuts that lie ahead in public spending, Mr Gove has promised 50 million to cover start-up costs for free schools. Hes also given his word that the current planning laws and building regulations, which conspire to make life difficult for parents groups trying to set up schools, will be reformed. The government believes that free schools have the potential to raise achievement in areas where local authority-run schools arent providing a good education. Gove points to the US for evidence that his scheme will work. There, he says, some of the most successful schools have been set up by groups backed by parents and teachers and hed like to see the same thing happen here. Theres also a similar scheme in Sweden, which has seen the foundation of many successful schools. But the free schools scheme is only part of the new governments plans for education. The other main policy concerns academies; shortly after being appointed education secretary, Mr Gove wrote to every primary, secondary and special school in England inviting them to apply for academy status. Academies, like free schools, are outside of local authority control and are funded by private organisations, or by central government. Earlier this summer, Mr Gove said seven in ten top secondary schools had expressed an interest in getting academy status and he hoped that the ones who did forge ahead with this would help to drive academic standards higher, giving them more autonomy than they have at the moment. Parents and teachers have worried about academies being too exclusive, and discriminating against special needs pupils; but Mr Gove has promised that academies will be governed by admissions codes which will guarantee fair access to all and safeguard the inclusive character of comprehensive schools. In all, the reforms Mr Gove is promising have the potential to provide the biggest shake-up in state education in a century, with parents in the vanguard. Watch this space! Where to find out more The Department for Education website, at www.education.gov.uk, has lots of information about both academies and free schools. The Free Schools Network is at www.newschoolsnetwork.org
Compass
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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
sk parents what they think is the most fraught part of the day and the majority will probably say that its the school run. Whether you walk, bike or go in the car, if youre anything like the average mum, that journey to school always seems to be a last minute frantic dash, topped off with a bundle of school bags and rushing back for forgotten items. It goes without saying that leaving the house with plenty of time will inevitably help to make that journey a less stressful and therefore happier environment in which to start the day. However, getting your brood out on time in the mornings can require military-style organisation especially at the beginning of term. Even the most organised of mums can find it difficult to get back into routine after the summer holidays so, to give you a helping hand, weve put together some top tips for getting them off to school in the mornings: Make sure you set your alarm and allow enough time for the whole family to get ready take into account slow eaters and week day sleepy heads (that group of children who like to get up at the crack of dawn at the weekend but sleep in on school days). So that everyone knows the routine for getting to school on time, make a school
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Spotlight on Schools
NEW FACILITIES FOR CLAIRES COURT SCHOOLS
CLAIRES COURT Schools has seen some exciting additions to the facilities for their Pre and Junior Prep pupils. At Ridgeway, their new outdoor classroom has had the boys hard at work sowing and planting in their garden, and watching the fruits of their labours appear. At the College, a new outdoor classroom has been installed providing a shaded area and games tables. In addition, a whole new playground area has been developed and was opened recently by the Mayor, Councillor Katherine Bursnall. The playground equipment includes a range of climbing apparatus, musical instruments and playground markings on which the children can play. 01628 411472. www.clairescourt.com
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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Open Days
Brigidine, Queensmead, Kings Road, Windsor. Private girls school, ages 2-18, nursery for boys and girls. Open Morning Saturday October 9 from 9.30am12.30pm. 01753 863779. www.brigidine.org.uk Claires Court Schools, Maidenhead. Independent Day Schools for boys and girls. Ridgeway boys 4-11yrs Maidenhead Thicket; Claires Court boys 11-16 yrs, Ray Mill Road East; The College, (co-ed nursery 3-5yrs, girls 4-16yrs, and co-ed sixth form 16-18yrs) 1 College Avenue. Open mornings at all sites Thursday 7 October, Tuesday 2 November. 9.30am-12noon (nursery from 9.30am-11.30am). 01628 411472. www.clairescourt.com. Eton End Preparatory Day School, 35 Eton Road, Datchet. Boys aged 3-7yrs and girls aged 3-11yrs. Open Day, Friday 15 October. 9.30am-4.30pm. 01753 541075. www.etonend.org. The Dolphin School, Waltham Road, Hurst. Independent Day School and nursery for boys and girls aged 3-13 years. Open Day Thursday October 7. 10.30am-12.30pm. Heads welcome at 10.45am. 0118 934 1277. www.dolphinschool.com Herries School, Dean Lane, Cookham Dean. Co-ed preparatory school and nursery, 3-11yrs. Open Mornings are on the last Wednesday of every month. Starting with a talk by the headmaster at 9:30am, followed by a tour around our school. Tel: 01628 483350. www.herries.org.uk Highfield School, West Road, Maidenhead. Independent girls school, 2-11yrs. Please ring to register your place at the next Open Mornings on Friday 17 September, Friday 15 October or Saturday 16 October. 01628 624918. www.highfield.berks.sch.uk. Meadowbrook Montessori School, Warfield, Bracknell, 5-12yrs. Contact the school for dates of Open Days. 01344 890 869. www.meadowbrookmontessori.org Winbury School, Hibbert Road, Bray, Maidenhead. Independent co-ed pre-preparatory, 2-8yrs. Open mornings Thursday 30 September, Thursday 14 October, 9.30am-12noon and Saturday 16 October, 10.00am-12.30noon. 01628 627412. www.winburyschool.co.uk Please ring the school concerned to check that the Open Day is going ahead.
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Suggestions for
In search of fresh inspiration for packed lunches, we asked some mums for their top tips to blow away the boring cheese sandwiches and create envious looks at the lunch table.
1. A healthy option: Spread a tortilla with soft cheese and grated carrot or cucumber, then fold and slice. Add a frozen smoothie in a container it keeps everything cool and its one of your five a day. 2. Cheesy egg tarts: This is good for the making too kids can join in making the pastry and do all egg and milk whisking. Find a recipe on the web or in a good cookbook. 3. Another yummy wrap: Mix boiled eggs, potatoes, any veg and cheese place in a tortilla, fold in half and cut into triangles. 4. Homemade pizza: Split an English muffin and toast it, add tomato sauce, top with cheese and grill.You could add carrots or red pepper to the tomato sauce and then blitz it, so the vegetables are disguised. 5. A little extra: Try cutting cheese into different shapes with a pastry cutter, draw a smiley face on a banana and for birthdays or grumpy days try a banana and chocolate spread wrap yummy!
A Healthy
Math Mantra
Vedic Maths Classes For 8-12 years old
Improves academic performance Increases speed and accuracy Improves memory Increases mental agility Promotes creativity Easy & fun
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Lunch?
N
ever fear, all of the items on this page are long lasting, re-usable and dont contain any harmful chemicals. So theyre perfect for a truly healthy lunch.
This lovely retro patterned lunchbox from family-run Norwegian company Blafre looks great and avoids the plastic problem altogether its made from non-reactive aluminium. The matching bottle is also lightweight aluminium, so no worries about any nasty chemicals in your little ones drinks. Lunchbox 10.99, drinks bottle 8.99 from www.peanutandpip.co.uk, 01234 766094.
Eco-friendly containers
Ok, so youve packed the carrot sticks and houmous, with wholemeal sandwiches and a fruity snack but is the lunchbox itself very healthy for your kids or the environment? Plastic bags, bottles and food wrap can potentially leach chemicals into food and drink. Many countries have banned BPAs and PVC from childrens toys and food containers. And dont forget how much of the non-biodegradable packaging will end up as landfill; worldwide over 60 billion tons of plastic waste is produced every year. By Hannah Hunter
Happened is perfect for holding lots of different lunch box items, and is free from any harmful chemicals, with a handy lead free zip to contain any crumbs. 4.26 from www.coochie-coo.co.uk, 01481 242979. How fantastic is this penguin lunch bag by Skip Hop? Its not only beautifully designed, but its also BPA-free, phthalate-free and PVC free. Insulated to keep things cool, the bag has a wipe clean interior and zips open to make a tray. It also has a little clip to attach it to the equally cute penguin Zoo backpack. 12.50 from www.peanutandpip.co.uk, 01234 766094. used over and over. Cleverly folding and fastening with Velcro, when opened the Wrapper makes a mini table cloth for your lunch. With wipe-able coated fabric on one side with cotton on the other, the wrap can be machine washed, and comes in a wide range of prints. 4.75 from www.re-wrap-it.co.uk, 0141 954 4739. The LunchBots duo is a healthy alternative to plastic containers made from high quality, dishwasher safe stainless steel, theres no danger of any chemical leaching. Divided into two sections, the Duo is perfect for keeping your sandwich and snack separate in eco-friendly style. 12.99 from www.littleacornstomightyoaks.co.uk, 08451161907.
You wont find cleaner, greener cutlery anywhere else this set from Bambu is made from organic, fairly traded, sustainable bamboo. Carved from a single piece of bamboo, hand-shaped and finished, the cutlery is not only beautiful but also functional its heat and stain resistant and does not impart or absorb flavours. Bambu spoon and fork 4.50 from www.greentulip.co.uk, 01380 818 515.
Keep your little ones fruit from getting bashed, and give them a giggle at lunchtime with this handmade fruit cozy, hand knitted by zisforzebra. Each item is unique, is fully washable at 40 degrees, and all are made in the UK using left-over yarn and buttons. 3.50 from www.folksy.com/shops/zisforzebra Instead of throwing away your sandwich wrappings, keep them fresh in this sandwich wrap from Re-Wrap-It, which can be
Instead of plastic bags, why not try this washable snack bag by Itzy Ritzy. Available in lots of different colours and patterns, Snack
Ditch your plastic bottles in favour of Siggs aluminium one. The Swiss brand makes the definitive metal drinks bottle and their high quality kids range is a great choice for durablilty and quality. The baked-on lining of the bottle is leach-proof and resistant to fruit acids and even energy drinks, so it doesnt retain the taste of previous contents. Monkey bottle, 13.50 from www.sigg.com.
Academy of English
Quality individual and small group tuition in Slough/Windsor/Bucks SATS/GCSE/AS/A LEVEL ESOL all Cambridge examinations Including business/academic/general English IELTS and university preparation Tel: 07725300061 e-mail: heathercd@btinternet.com
HOWLAND TUTORS
(MAIDENHEAD/MARLOW and WINDSOR/SLOUGH areas)
offers individual tuition in twenty subjects including: all primary; Biology, Chemistry, Economics, English, French, Geography, History, Latin, Maths and Physics. Further tutors welcome Tel. (01628) 477164 www.howlandtutors.co.uk
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010
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y interest in dyslexia and passion to help those who struggle with it started around five years ago. At the time, my son was struggling with literacy and lost interest in learning. At the same time, I was on a course for work on dyslexia and other learning difficulties.This caused me to realise he might be dyslexic; I had him assessed by an educational psychologist who confirmed that he was indeed mildly dyslexic. In response the school did not offer much support and advice, as they felt he was performing adequately, but I knew he was not reaching his potential. My interest in this subject and the fact that dyslexia is often not picked up or addressed satisfactorily led me to establish The Chilterns IDL (Dyslexia) Centre in January 2007, with two further centres following over the next few years. So what is dyslexia? The word dyslexia comes from the Greek, literally meaning difficulty with words.The condition can affect spelling and reading and many people believe thats all it is. However, it can also affect individuals in other areas such as confusing dates and times or left and right, difficulties in getting ideas down on paper, sequencing numbers and information and following verbal instructions.Working memory is often also poor.This shows itself when new information needs to be processed effectively and quickly. While dyslexia can be viewed as a learning difficulty, it can also be seen as a gift. Some talents shared by dyslexics include the ability to think in pictures, being creative and intuitive and being good with their hands. Theyre often highly aware of their environment and have vivid imaginations. Children with dyslexia can have above average intelligence, yet struggle with words and processing new information.
although they do learn to cope with it. Although its not directly linked to intelligence, children and adults with other learning difficulties or sensory disabilities may also have dyslexic difficulties. How to recognise dyslexia Sometimes it is hard to get a diagnosis of dyslexia. However, theres a lot you can pick up about your child just by sitting down together with them and a good book, appropriate to their developmental stage and interest level. Areas of difficulty to look out for include: Does your child struggle with reading or spelling? Do they avoid picking up a book? Do they guess at a word, looking at the whole word or just the initial letter? Do they forget how to read or spell a word as soon as theyve turned the page? Do they find it hard to sound out individual letters in simple 3 letter words, for example cat, bat? Do they find it hard to rhyme simple MY DOG NICK is words? now available in Do they skip little words such as, and Waterstones and Corinna will be doing a or the? book signing and children Do they miss out words when reading? activity session on the These are all potential indicators of Who is affected? 18th September at Waterstones in the dyslexia. Other non-language indicators in The exact percentage Oracle in primary-age children include difficulty with of the population is debated, Reading. tying shoe laces, ties or dressing generally; but its generally thought to difficulty telling left from right, ordering affect between 8% and 15%, 4% severely. the days of the week, months of the year That means that in a class of 30 children, 3 etc; having a poor sense of direction, are likely to have dyslexic tendencies. So lacking confidence and having a poor everyone is likely to know at least one child self-image. or adult who is dyslexic. Children with The presence of any, most, or all of the dyslexic tendencies are likely to be resistant above does not necessarily mean your to traditional teaching methods and benefit child is dyslexic, but I would recommend from a one-to-one, multi-sensory learning further investigation if you have any environment. concerns. Dyslexia often runs in families, with a close relative struggling with it, too. Most are I think my child might be dyslexic. What should I do now? Speak to an educational specialist, such as your childs teacher. Or ask to speak to the SENCO (special educational needs co-ordinator). Every school must now have a teacher with this responsibility. If your child is at nursery, their nursery teacher or health visitor will be able to point you in the right direction, although there is often a reluctance to consider dyslexia at this early age. You could also look at the Code of Practice, which sets out the way schools and Local Education Authorities (LEAs) should provide extra support to meet childrens special educational needs.The Code of Practice is available free from DCSF Publications, tel: 0845 60 222 60, CoP Ref: DfES/581/2001; copies can also be downloaded from www.beingdyslexic.co.uk
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Can you grow out of dyslexia? As children grow up, they learn to compensate for their difficulties, the more successful ones using their strengths to overcome their condition. Support during the formative years is vital to unlock their potential in literacy and in other areas. As a parent, you can help your child at home by encouraging them to enjoy the world of words through fun books. Books that are relevant to their interest and developmental age are best, particularly if they have been designed with the dyslexic child in mind. Children struggling with dyslexia love pictures and colours, so colourful illustrations relevant to the words are engaging and helpful for these children. The multi-sensory approach is best, so supporting reading and writing with games or activities will help your children in an enjoyable way. This may help your child be less resisitant to more formal learning tasks, such as homework set by school. Keep talking to key members of staff at your childs school to ensure your child gets the best help and support that they need. Seek out extra private tuition, if you feel more help is needed and you can afford it. One-to-one tuition based on a multi-sensory approach with a dyslexia specialist is best. Further information Corinna can be contacted for a confidential chat on 07721 368978, or visit the Chilterns IDL Centre website at www.cstraining.info British Dyslexia Assocation, www.bdadyslexia.org.uk. Dyslexia Action, www.dyslexiaaction.org.uk. For more information on Corinnas new series of books developed specifically for dyslexic children and a mini test visit www.dancingkites.co.uk.
Maths
aths is the school subject that worries parents the most. Sometimes we are anxious about our own maths ability. Just as often, its discovering that the methods we learned at primary school look completely different from the ones being taught today. 3. Play board games Maths for Mums & Dads (Square Peg, involving dice and money 10.99) is packed with explanations, with your child. Car games and insights into how to help games such as pub children with their maths. Here are some tips from the book: cricket are great for maths interaction, too. 1. Make maths part of your everyday 4. Learn some interactions with your child. Ask them to help you to work out the change at mathematical magic tricks (youll find plenty in the book). Children love magic the shop, to check how many minutes and will happily do maths if it is part of until the train is due, weigh ingredients etc. Pose mathematical questions out performing the trick. 5. When helping with homework, be loud to yourself (lets see, how much patient. Children rarely get it change will I need?) and pause so that immediately. And if things are getting your child can come to the rescue. fraught, take a break. Often the best way 2. Learn about the new methods being taught, particularly the grid method for to tackle a problem is to sleep on it. 6. Dont say I was always hopeless at multiplication and chunking for maths. Its usually not true, and it can division. These are more connected make your child think maths isnt worth to the methods you learned than the effort. you might think.
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Cooking
Pumpkin scones
Method:
1. Sieve the flour into a mixing bowl, ad the butter and rub together until it looks like sand. Add the baking powder and sugar. 2. Add the pumpkin and slowly add milk until you have a nice dough if the pumpkin is very wet you may not need any milk. If it is too wet just add a bit more flour. 3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it is as fat as your little finger and cut out lots of little circles.
by Crafty Cooks
A great way to use up all the extra Pumpkin during Halloween, these yummy scones taste great too.
Ingredients
2oz /50g Pumpkin cooked and mashed 1oz/25g Butter 2.5oz/37.5g Plain Flour 1dsp Brown Sugar 2tsp Baking Powder 3tbs Milk
4. Transfer onto a greased baking tray and cook for 12-15mins at 200C/390F. Crafty cooks runs pre-school cookery classes and in Marlow as well as after school clubs and parties. In the last year they have started a licensee program and are now looking for licensees throughout the UK. If youd like more information please contact Anna@craftycooks.co.uk or call 01628 476670
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Polarn O. Pyret, the Swedish brand of kids clothes, gave Families a selection from its Autumn/Winter range to road test. The kids put the clothing through its paces at Odds Farm Park. Local photographer Mark Henderson captured them hard at work ... testing out the play equipment, feeding the animals and generally having a whole lot of fun! By Claire Winter
he kids all said the clothes were really comfortable and easy to play in. The waterproofs didnt make them sweaty and the fleeces really did withstand the rainy showers that came our way. Our models liked the thumb holes in the fleeces, which were like fingerless gloves. They also help when putting a second layer on top, no more lost sleeves! All the clothes are machine washable and the mud washed out easily, leaving the clothes looking as good as new. Whilst Polarn O.Pyret clothes are slightly more expensive than other high street brands, they really do last. I bought all three of my children their winter coats last year. They retail at 65 each, which is a significant investment, but my kids are wearing them for a second year in a row, plus they can double up as ski wear. For a 20% PO.P discount voucher turn to page 24. For more information about the clothes go to www.polarnopyret.com
Famous for their stripes, PO.P tops dont shrink and are in a really soft cotton. Pink stripy top 18.50. The company also does a vast array of brightly coloured denim, which have adjustable waists,a great cut and are unisex, for boys and girls. Pink Jeans 25.
These wellies really will stand the test of time, they are weighted at the bottom so they wont slip off. They are highly visible at night because the stripes are reflective and theres also a reflective strip at the back. Red stripy wellies 16.50. Blue Fleece 39. The fleece is one of PO.Ps most popular products and again comes in a variety of great colours. It is wind proof and water repellent and made from a soft breathable material that does not crease or bobble. It also has 3M reflectors and reflective zip pullers, which are perfect way for your children to stay visible on Autumn nights. A great option instead of a jacket for going back to school. Black Fleece 39.
PHOTOGRAPHER: Mark Henderson www.markhphoto.co.uk, MODELS: Esmee, Michael, Carys & Grace.
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010
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Poppies is owned by two qualified childcare practitioners with over 30 years experience. We carefully select our dedicated childcare team who provide an outstanding level of care to children aged birth to five years. Children are cared for in beautiful settings, a home away from home. Excellent Parent Carer Partnerships Freshly cooked organic food. Large safe and secure nursery garden.
I will always be most grateful for the most wonderful settings you have created and for meeting my childrens appropriate needs. Thank you and well done. Poppies will always hold a special place for me and as I watch my children progress I know where it all began. K.H. (parent)
Poppies Day Nursery Furlong Road Bourne End Bucks SL8 5AE Tel: 01628 521522 poppiesdaynursery@fsmail.net Poppies Day Nursery Crown Road Marlow Bucks SL7 2QG Tel: 01628 487772 poppiesdaynurserymarlow@fsmail.net
www.poppiesdaynursery.com
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
ORGANISED MUM
Get Organised and WIN a Home Planner
Keep up to speed with all the events and activities of the new school term with a fantastic Home Planner from Organised Mum. Their 16-month-to-view wall calendar (Sept 2010 to Dec 2011) has large spaces in which to write all the families activities and incorporates many clever organisational features including stickers to highlight important events, a paperwork pocket and room for lists and reminders. Available from www.organisedmum.co.uk we have 6 Home Planners worth 10.99 each for you to win. This is just one in a whole range of products from Organised Mum designed to help mums keep on top of family life. Visit www.organisedmum.co.uk to see their full range or call 0845 644 7507 for a brochure. TO ENTER the Organised Mum competition just visit www.familiestveast.co.uk and click on offers in the top bar. Closing date October 10.
WE CAN PROVIDE SOMETHING FOR ALL OCCASIONS. Indoor/Outdoor Small/Large Back Gardens Schools Ftes Weddings Christenings Birthdays
All inflatables have been tested and have certificates All electrical equipment is PAP tested
www.bouncy-castles-4-hire.co.uk
07903 940168
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010
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Time Out
SEPTEMBER
Saturday September 4. COOKHAM REGATTA, Marsh Meadow, Cookham. 10am-5pm. Fun regatta for the whole family with boat races and landside activities, stalls and events. Cookhamregatta.org.uk. Saturday September 4. ART IN THE PARK, art activities near the cafe in California Country Park, Finchampstead. 11am-3pm. Puppet making, textile jewellery, felt making, print making and mask making. Free. Wokingham.gov.uk. Saturday September 4. 28TH MEDIAEVAL CHURCH FAYRE at St Laurences Church, Datchet Roundabout, Slough. 10.30am-4pm. Mediaeval street market, guided tours, mediaeval service at 12pm. Entry by donation, children free. Saint-laurence.com. Saturday September 4 and Sunday September 5. END OF SUMMER FUN DAYS at Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road, Riseley, Reading. 9.30am-5.30pm. 0118 932 6444; wellington-country-park.co.uk. Sunday September 5. SWAN LIFELINE OPEN DAY at Cuckoo Weir Island, South Meadow Lane, Eton. 11am-4pm. Free parking on the Brocas or take the river cruise from Windsor promenade for a small donation. 01753 859397; swanlifeline.org.uk. Sunday September 5. MODEL BOAT CLUB REGATTA at Black Park, Wexham. 10.30am-4pm. Free. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk. Sunday September 5. POSTMAN PAT LIVE A VERY ROYAL MISSION at the Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe. 1pm and 3.30pm. Tickets: adult 13.50, child 11.50. 01494 512000; wycombeswan.co.uk. Friday September 10 to Sunday September 12. NATIONAL CARRIAGE DRIVING CHAMPIONSHIPS in Queen Victorias Review Ground, Windsor Great Park. Arena events. Dog agility show on Saturday, classic vehicle show on Sunday. 0845 643 2116; windsordriving.co.uk. Saturday September 11. TOMMYS BABY RACE in Windsor Great Park. 10am. Warm-up with Buggyfit instructors. 8km sponsored power walk or run in aid of Tommys, the baby charity. Wide flat course, perfect for prams. Childrens activities and entertainment. Entry: 10. Register via tommys.org/babyrace; 020 73983448. Saturday September 11. HOLYPORT VILLAGE SHOW in the War Memorial Hall, Holyport Green. 01628 636891. Saturday September 11. THE FIRESTATIONS BIG PICNIC in Alexandra Gardens, Windsor. 12-6pm. Free event. Live acts, licensed bar, food stalls, art exhibition from Art on the Street and a bring and buy art sale. 01753 866 865; firestationartscentre.com. Saturday September 11. HENLEY SHOW at Greenlands Farm, Mill End, Hambleden, Henley. 9am-5pm. Lots of stands, animals, entertainment and activities. Tickets: adult 9.50, child 4.50. 01491 410948; thehenleyshow.com. Saturday September 11 to Sunday September 12. SLOUGH CANAL FESTIVAL, Bloom Park, off Middlegreen Road, Langley. 11am-5pm. Boat trips, childrens activities, arts and craft stalls, arena events. Free. Slough.gov.uk. Saturday September 11 and Sunday September 12. AMAZING MACHINES at Legoland, Winkfield Road, Windsor. 0871 2222 001; legoland.co.uk. Saturday September 11 and Sunday September 12. DAYS OUT WITH THOMAS at the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station, Quainton, Aylesbury. Magic shows, Punch & Judy, DVD theatre, storytelling, arts and crafts. Tickets on the day: adult 13, child 10 (2 cheaper if booked in advance). 01296 655720; bucksrailcentre.org. Sunday September 12. COOKHAM DEAN GRAVITY GRAND PRIX. Fun event to raise money for the Thames Valley and Chiltern Air Ambulance. For rules and how to enter, visit cookham.com. Sunday September 12. OPEN DAY at Taplow Court, Cliveden Road, Taplow. House and grounds open to the public, with tours of the house available between 2.30-5.30pm. Free. 01628 773163. Sunday September 12. HERITAGE OPEN DAY at Danesfield, Henley Road, Marlow. 2-5pm. A Scheduled Ancient Monument with an illustruous past. During WWII it was the location of the Allied Photo Intelligence and Interpretation Unit. Tours run by the Marlow Society start at 2pm until 4pm. Marlowsociety.org.uk.
at many venues. At National Trust properties in the area, including Cliveden, Taplow; Basildon Park, Lower Basildon, Reading; Greys Court, Rotherfield Greys, Henley; Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury (which is organising a Community and Emergency Services Day) and Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe. 11am-5pm. Free entry. Special childrens activities and trails. Heritageopendays.co.uk; nationaltrust.org.uk. Saturday September 11. MAGICAL TRAIL AND TALES at Popes Manor, Pope Meadow car park, St Marks Road, Binfield. 2-4pm. Treasure trail for children, with poet and writer Clare Bevan. Booking essential. 01344 354441; bracknell-forest.gov.uk.
Sunday September 12. HERBS ARE HAPPENING at the Colney Valley Park Centre, Denham Court Live, Denham. 11am-2pm. Family fun learning about growing, drying and cooking with herbs. 01895 833375; colnevalleypark.org.uk. Sunday September 12. PANN MILL OPEN DAY, The Rye, London Road, High Wycombe. 11am-5pm. See the restored water mill on the Rye in action. Sales of flour, books, plants, bric-a-brac and teas. Water trail at 2.30pm. Organised by the High Wycombe Society. 01494 534876. Sunday September 12. ROALD DAHL DAY at the Roald Dahl Museum, High Street, Great Missenden, and Gipsy House. 11am to 5pm. Guided village trails, magicians, face-painting, tours, workshops and Matilda-themed storytelling with the Royal Shakespeare Company. Gipsy House is also open for the day. 01494 892192; roalddahlmuseum.org. Sunday September 12. BABY & CHILDRENS NEW & PRE-LOVED MARKET, at Liston Hall, Chapel Street, Marlow SL7 1DD. From 10 am - 12:30 pm. Childrens entertainment and refreshments available. 1 Entry per adult (Kids free).Visit www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Friday September 17 to Sunday September 19. GUESS HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU at South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell. Shows at 11am, 1.30pm (Friday only) and 3pm. Tickets: adult 12.50, child 10. 01344 484123; southhillpark.org.uk. Friday September 17 and Saturday September 18. CONTINENTAL MARKET in the High Street, Maidenhead. Saturday September 18. COOKHAM DEAN VILLAGE FETE at the Old Cricket Common, Cookham Dean. 1-4.45pm. 1 entry. Line dancing evening from 8pm. 01628 810755. Saturday September 18. MARLOW CARNIVAL in Higginson Park, Marlow. 11am-5pm. 01628 472558; marlowcarnival.co.uk. Saturday September 18. NCT NEARLY NEW SALE in The Link, St Johns Church Hall, Windlesham. Opening at 10.15am for members, 10.30am for non-members. 07894 328 014; nct.org.uk. Saturday September 18. APPLE DAY at Greys Court, Rotherfield Greys, Henley. 12-5pm. Stalls, tastings and family activities. 01491 628529; nationaltrust.org. Saturday September 18 and Sunday September 19. THE ROYAL COUNTY OF BERKSHIRE SHOW at the Newbury Showground, just off J13 of the M4. 8am-7pm (6pm on Sunday). Arena events, livestock, food, stalls, rides, crafts tent and more. 01635 247111; newburyshow.co.uk. Saturday September 18 to Sunday January 9. FIRE AND LIGHT SHOW at the Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell. Shows at 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3.15pm. Cost: 1.85. 01344 354400; bracknell-forest.gov.uk. Sunday September 19. BABY & CHILDRENS NEW & PRE-LOVED MARKET, at WAMDSAD, Braywick Sports Grd, Maidenhead SI6 1BN From 10am-12 noon. Childrens entertainment and refreshments available on the day. Entry 1 per adult (kids free).Visit www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Sunday September 19. ADVENTURES IN THE MAGICAL KINGDOM, a childrens concert by the Southbank Sinfonia at the Eton College Music Schools, Eton. 11am. Tickets: adult 8, child 6. 01753 740121; windsorfestival.com. Sunday September 19. SUNNINGDALE AREA CARNIVAL at the Broomhall Recreation Ground, Broomhall
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Time Out
Puppet World and Halloween Fun, Odds Farm Park, every weekend in October
Tuesday October 12 to Saturday October 16. SWAN LAKE ON ICE at the Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe. 7.30pm. Tickets: 18-31.50. 01494 512000; wycombeswan.co.uk. Friday October 15 to Sunday October 17. GIFTS FOR CHRISTMAS AND LIVE CRAFTS at Windsor Racecourse, Maidenhead Road,Windsor. 10am-5pm. 01494 445105; hdfairs.co.uk. Saturday October 16. APPLE DAY at Home Cottage Farm, Bangors Road South, Iver Heath. 11am-4pm. In aid of St Margarets Church, Iver Heath. Stalls, producers, childrens activities, apple pressing, pony rides, archery, craft-making. Entry: 1 per adult, 2 parking, children free. 07870338712. Saturday October 16. JAMES CAMPBELLS COMEDY AND SONGS 4 KIDS at Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 11am. Brand new stand-up comedy for kids aged 6+. Tickets: 6.50, family 22. Meal and ticket: adult 12.50, child 10.50. 01628 788997; nordenfarm.org. Sunday October 16. APPLE DAY at the Museum of English Rural Life, University of Reading, Redlands Road, Reading. 2-4pm. Free. Tastings and activities. 0118 378 8660; reading.ac.uk/merl. Sunday October 17. WOODLANDS IN AUTUMN WALK at Cliveden, Taplow. 11am-12.30pm. Meet at the Woodland car park. Guided walk with one of the foresters. Booking essential. All tickets: 6. 01628 605069. Sunday October 17. SEED GATHERING SUNDAY at Langley Park, Billet Lane, Iver Heath. 10am-12pm. Family-friendly seed gathering workshop. Free. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk. More information about seed gathering and nut and fruit foraging on treecouncil.org.uk. Wednesday October 20. MUGENKYO TAIKO DRUMMERS at the Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe. 7.30pm. Powerful drumming on huge taiko drums combined with dance. Tickets: 17-19. 01494 512000; wycombeswan.co.uk. Sunday October24. BABY & CHILDRENS NEW & PRE-LOVED MARKET, at WAMDSAD, Braywick Sports Grd, Maidenhead SI6 1BN From 10am - 12 noon. Childrens entertainment and refreshments available on the day. 1 Enry per adult (Kids free).Visit www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Thursday October 28. WILDLIFE IN THE BOROUGH at Cookham Library, High Road, Cookham Rise. 2.30-3.30pm. Nature presentation with a ranger from the Braywick Nature Centre. Where to find wildlife, how to make your garden wildlife friendly. Suitable for all. Free. Booking essential. 01628 526147; rbwm.gov.uk
OCTOBER
Every weekend in October and daily during half term. PUPPET WORLD AND HALLOWEEN FUN at Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common. 10am-5.30pm. Spooky puppet shows, pumpkin carving and witches trail. Fancy Dress competitions. 01628 520188; oddsfarm.co.uk. Saturday October 2. DARREN SHAN MASTER OF HORROR at Theatre Royal, Windsor. 11.30am. Darren Shan tells the life story of vampire Larten Crepsley, star of his new series of books. Tickets: adult 6, child 4. 01753 853888; theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk. Saturday October 2. BEGINNERS GUIDE TO MUSHROOMS AND OTHER FUNGI at Marlow Common with the Wycombe Rangers. Meet at 10am. Suitable for all. Booking essential. Tickets: adult 4, child 2. 01494 421825; wycombe.gov.uk. Saturday October 2. BABY AND TODDLER NEARLY NEW SALE at Little Fishes Pre-School, Furze Platt Memorial Hall, Furze Platt Road, Maidenhead. 2-4pm. To sell: 12 a table; keep 100% profit. To buy: entry 1 per person. 07957 186984. Saturday October 2. SEASONAL WALK APPLES AND APPLE PRESSING at Waltham Place Farm, Church Hill, White Waltham. 2pm at the Ormandy Centre. Cost: adult 6, child 3 for walk and refreshments. Under 5s free. Booking essential. 01628 825517; walthamplace.com. Saturday October 2. INSPIRATION ON ICE at the Bracknell Ski Centre, John Nike Way, Bracknell. Fundraising gala in aid of Cancer Research, hosted by Dancing on Ice Judge Nicky Slater and appearances by Dancing on Ice Celebrities. 01344 789000; jnlbracknell.co.uk. Saturday October 2 and Sunday October 3. CARTERS STEAM FAIR at Englefield Green, Egham. 1-11pm on Saturday, 1-8pm Sunday. 01628 822221; carterssteamfair.co.uk.
For further information contact Maxine Tel: 020 8573 6288 Mob: 07814 605175 www.chuckleparties.co.uk
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Time Out
BUY YOUR PUMPKINS from farm shops in the area: Emmetts Farm Shop, Wilton Farm, Marlow Road, Little Marlow. (01628 484094). Waltham Place, Church Hill, White Waltham. Farm shop not open, but pumpkins available. (01628 825517). Copas Farm Shops in Lower Mount Farm, Long Lane, Cookham (01628 529511) and Calves Lane Farm, Billet Lane, Iver (01753 652727). And the Farmers Markets in Maidenhead, Windsor, Marlow and Ascot.
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Time Out
Wednesday October 27 and Thursday October 28. AUTUMN EVENTS in Bracknell. Wednesday: MUSIC FROM THE FOREST at Braybrooke Recreation Ground Hall, Makepiece Road, Priestwood. 2-4pm. Make instruments from wild plants. For ages 5-11. Cost: 3.50. Thursday: FUNGAL FORAY at Lily Hill Park. 2-4pm. Forage for fungi with an expert. Cost: 2 per person. Booking essential for both events. 01344 354441; bracknell-forest.gov.uk. Wednesday October 27 to Friday October 29. HALF TERM SHOWS AND HALLOWEEN CRAFT WORKSHOPS at Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. SHOWS - Wednesday: CINDERELLA ASHPUTTEL. 11am and 3pm. One woman play with puppets and props. For ages 3-8. Thursday and Friday: ARABIAN NIGHTS. 11am and 3pm. Be transported to a mystical land by three tales told from the Arabian Nights. For ages 4-7. Tickets: 6.50. Meal and tickets: adult 12.50, child 10.50. WORKSHOPS Wednesday: FAIRY TALES DRESSING UP. 10-10.45am and 2-2.45pm. Cost: 5 per child, adults free. Thursday: SPOOKY SPIDERS. 10-10.45am. Cost: 6. For ages 5-7. BATTY BAT MOBILE. 11-11.45am. Cost: 6. For ages 7-10. MONSTER MASKS. 12-12.45pm. Cost: 6. For all the family. 01628 788997; nordenfarm.org. Wednesday October 27 to Friday October 29. SPOOKS AND SPIES Family activity days at the REME Museum of Technology, Isaac Newton Road, Arborfield. 11am-3.30pm. 0118 976 3375; rememuseum.org.uk. Wednesday October 27 to Sunday October 31. THE BIG DRAW at Windsor Castle. 11am-4pm. Creative activities in the Moat Education Room, exploring different drawing techniques. Ages 5-11. Drop-in. 020 77667304; royalcollection.org.uk. Wednesday October 27 to Sunday October 31. SPOOKTACULAR at Basildon Park, Lower Basildon, Reading. 11am-5pm. Week of family fun including trails, storytelling and craft activities. 2 per trail. 0118 984 3040; nationaltrust.org. Thursday October 28. SHAKERS AND MOVERS at Bourne End Library, Wakeman Road, Bourne End. Sessions at 3-3.45pm and 4-4.45pm. Make your own board game to play at home. Free, but booking required. 01494 421895; wycombe.gov.uk. Friday October 29. MONSTER PARADE at the Colne Valley Park Centre, Denham Court Drive, Denham. 2-4pm. Decorate a scary monster and join the parade around Denham Country Park. Ideal for under 10s. 01895 833375; colnevalleypark.org.uk. Friday October 29. BIG SUGAR DRAW at the River and Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley. 10.30am-4pm. Help create a sweet version of the Museums 17th century painting of Henley from the Wargrave Road by Jan Siberechts. Drop-in; no need to book. 01491 415600; rrm.co.uk. Friday October 29. HALLOWEEN SPECTACULAR at the Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles. 69pm. Candlelit trail through the village, with trick or treat, fire eaters, face painters and other activities. 01494 871117; coam.org.uk. Friday October 29 and Saturday October 30. CREEPY CRAFTS at Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe. 11am-4pm. 01494 755573; nationaltrust.org.uk. Friday October 29 to Sunday October 31. CHARLIE AND LOLAS BEST BESTEST PLAY at the Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe. Shows at 4.30 on Friday and Saturday, 11am and 1.30pm on Saturday and Sunday. For ages 3+. Tickets: 11.50-12.50. 01494 512000; wycombeswan.co.uk. Saturday October 30. HALLOWEEN PUMPKIN PARTY at Windsor Royal Shopping. 1-4pm. Pumpkin carving (while stocks last), fancy dress competition and magic show. Judging starts at 3.30pm. Free. 01753 797070. Saturday October 30. HALLOWEEN EVENTS in Maidenhead Town Centre. Also, FARMERS MARKET in the High Street. 01628 796128. www.maidenheadtownpartnership.org.uk Saturday October 30. WITCHES BROOMSTICKS at Stoke Common, Stoke Common Road, opposite The Pickeridge, Fulmer. Make a broomstick from birch, tools provided. Booking required. 07912 731500; cityoflondon.gov.uk. Saturday October 30. FUNGAL FORAY in Langley Park, Billet Lane, Iver Heath. 10am-1pm. With members of the Bucks Fungus Group. Not suitable for young children. Free. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk. Saturday October 30. FAMILY FUN DAY AND FIREWORKS at Ascot Racecourse. Racing between 12.45-4.15pm. Fireworks start at 6pm. Fairground rides and childrens activities all day. Tickets: adults from 16, under 16s free. 0870 727 1234; ascot.co.uk. Firework only tickets for sale via ascotfireworks.org.uk and local shops. Saturday October 30. FRIGHT NIGHT at California Dreaming Cafe, California Country Park, Finchampstead. 4-7pm. Witch hunt, unlucky dips and wall of horror. 0118 973 5519; wokingham.gov.uk. Saturday October 30 and Sunday October 31. SPOOKY HALLOWEEN TRAINS at the Cholsey and Wallingford Railway, from Cholsey Station or Hithercroft Road, Wallingford. Free Spooky Bags for under 8s. Fares: adult 7.50, child 4.50. Cholsey-wallingford-railway.com. Sunday October 31. HIGH SPIRITS! The only, and original, public ghost walk of the year in Windsor, by the Rendez-vous Guides. Tickets: 3-6. To book, and for more information, call 07770 933117 or 01628 828279; rendezvousguides.co.uk.
Sunday October 31. HALLOWEEN TREASURE HUNT at Langley Park, Billet Lane, Iver Heath. From 5pm, spooky trail through the park. Booking essential. Cost: 2 per child. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk. Sunday October 31. HALLOWEEN PARTY at the Colne Valley Park Centre, Denham Court Drive, Denham. 6-8pm. Creepy crafts, games and stories for under 10s. Entry: 3 per child, includes a goodie bag. 01895 833375; colnevalleypark.org.uk. Sunday October 31. HALLOWEEN at the Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway, Station Road, Chinnor. Children in Halloween costumes will receive a present. 01844 353535; chinnorrailway.co.uk. Sunday October 31. SWAN LAKE at the Hexagon, Queens Walk, Reading. 7.30pm. The classic ballet performed by the Moscow Ballet. 0118 960 6060; readingarts.com. Monday November 1. FLAWLESS at the Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe. 7.30pm. The Britains Got Talent stars in their first solo show. Tickets: 19.50. 01494 512000; wycombeswan.co.uk. Tuesday November 2. AUTUMN COLOURS WALK in Langley Park, Billet Lane, Iver Heath. 10am-noon. Enjoy the autumn on a guided walk through the park. Booking essential. Free. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk. Tuesday November 2. HIGH SCHOOL ROCKS! At the Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe. 7pm. All the very best hits from High School Musical 1, 2, & 3, Hannah Montana, Camp Rock and Glee. Tickets: 13.50. 01494 512000; wycombeswan.co.uk.
FIREWORK NIGHTS
Saturday November 6. FIREWORKS AND FUN at Maidenhead United Football Club,York Road, Maidenhead. Organised by and in aid of The Link Foundation. 01628 860310; linkfoundation.co.uk. Saturday November 6. BONFIRE NIGHT by the Cookham Scouts at Formosa Meadow, Mill Lane, Cookham. Gates open at 5.30pm, firelighting procession at 6.30pm, fireworks shortly after at 7pm. Tickets: 5 if bought in advance or 6 on the gate, under 5s free. For sale at Countrystores,Village Hardware and Hillcrest Stores, Cookham. Saturday November 6. FIREWORKS AND END OF SEASON PARTY at Longridge, Quarry Wood Lane, Marlow. Tickets available from Longridge, Marlow Tourist Office and local schools. 01628 483252; longridge-uk.org. Saturday November 6. FIREWORKS FIESTA at Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road, Riseley, Reading. Fundraising spectacular supported by the Lodden Lions. 7.30pm prompt. 0118 932 6444; wellington-country-park.co.uk.
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rom outdoor showers to fire pits, water features and clever storage ideas, theres a whole host of possibilities you may never have thought of. A designer will able to advise you about the type and style of garden features that will work in your outdoor space. Jamie Higham at Green Dot Gardens says: We work collaboratively with all our clients, coming up with ideas that fit with the way garden is used by everyone in the family. Whether its a child-friendly water feature or built-in storage, we always like to find out how you plan to use the garden so we can come up with the right design solution. Its important to look at the garden as a whole - then we can look at how to incorporate some more unusual details that give it a unique look. Working with a garden designer will ensure that you can incorporate everything you need into the plan. Slick, discreet, built-in storage is an important, functional part of any garden and can be a good starting point. Toys and tools can be hidden in storage benches, or cupboards built into pergolas so they are completely hidden. If youre eco-conscious, you might want to have a water butt or a compost bin. Neither of these items would win prizes for being aesthetically pleasing, so why not hide them from view too in a discreet wooden store? Furniture is also worth considering as part of the garden design process. With a bespoke design, seating can be built in to the layout to incorporate storage, or you could work with your designer to create a seating area that fits perfectly in an
awkward spot. The materials used will complement the other textures you have chosen for the garden and will be treated with exterior finish, so you dont need to worry about storage or protection over the winter months. Water in a family garden is often thought to be too much of a safety hazard while children are young. But making room for water gives a garden a relaxing focal point. You could opt for a sculptural feature in stone or metal that incorporates a restful trickle of water. Be imaginative and look at new materials, shapes and textures that capture the beauty of this natural element. A water feature should work with the garden as a whole, and should look great whether the water flow is turned on or off. If you want your water feature to be practical, rather than just ornamental, why not try an outdoor shower? Fun on hot summer days, they can even have a use in the winter too small, handheld showers can come in very handy for washing down muddy boots, dogs or children! By working with an experienced garden designer you can make sure that whatever special feature you want to incorporate, it is part of the overall design solution and fits with your lifestyle and how you plan to use the garden.
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ED SAYS: Meet the Mudcrusts, the ice-age family with a difference! Lowbrow challenges Chief Hawknose to a trial to become chief of the tribe. He feels sure he will make a better chief. But how will he deal with Hawknose if he tries to cheat again as he did previously? Can Lowbrow make a cunning plan in time? Here is a delightful story, sure to keep young readers amused. This book with its super illustrations can be enjoyed by boys and girls alike.
ED SAYS: This is another hilarious saga in that amazing place Grubtown! The new Grubtown Aquarium and Carwash is set to open, Mayor Gomez finally finishes knitting his new home and the Fox family are out for revenge just some of the everyday goings-on in this zany place. Crazy capers, dodgy dealings and mad moments fill the pages of this fantastic story written by one of our most popular childrens writers.
ED SAYS: The Spy Pups, Spud and Star, are following hot in the paw prints of their mum, Lara Licensed Assault and Rescue Animal. The circus is in town and in this episode of their exciting life the pups have to join the circus to sniff out the villains when priceless jewels go missing. Can the pups stop them before they vanish with the loot? This is an exciting new adventure in the Spy Pups series. If you enjoy it as much as I did, you will be able to look out for other stories written by the brilliant Andrew Cope.
ED SAYS: After a huge explosion, the near-lifeless body of Ben Smith is taken. Jordan Stryker comes to life, a technologically-enhanced version of Ben. With unbelievable powers, Jordan acts for the secret Unit Red, hunting the perpetrator of the lethal crime. He tries to come to terms with the loss of his previous life, particularly when he meets up with his old friend Amy. Here is another actionpacked page-turner of a book written by this amazing author. It is sure to be another best-seller!
Eds Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI award-winning website. It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher for more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating.You are very welcome to contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at mgh@edontheweb.com about the website or about Ed on the Web Spelling Bees in schools.
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The battle to
Bumps n Babes
breastfeed
ot all women find breastfeeding their baby easy; many expect it to happen naturally but it can be a struggle. When her daughter was born, Louise had no idea of the pitfalls or how hard shed have to fight to continue breastfeeding. The Maternity Network supported her through the tough times with general information and helped her find specialists to support her decision to breastfeed. Below are extracts from her diary recounting her daughter Amilees first five months.
for the first time without any other equipment! I am extremely sore though, so I used shields for the rest of the day. We went back to the breastfeeding clinic and I am devastated to find out that her tongue-tie is still there and that it will need to be cut again. 4 weeks: Another tongue-tie specialist (I didnt feel the first lady was for me as it didnt work out the first time) came to the house and assessed As tongue-tie and said it didnt look like it needed doing. The thrush in her mouth is still bad which means we boil all her dummies, teats, bottles and nipple shields for 20 minutes every time we use them (I feel sorry for the electricity board). 11.5 weeks: The paediatrician has recommended giving formula to boost As weight (6lbs1oz) but breast milk has more calories than formula! A and I still have thrush, which makes feeding extremely painful without the shields. My nipples are fluorescent pink and sore, breastfeeding is agony and Im dreading the next feed. 14 weeks: This time, Pam Lacey cut As tongue-tie today. It wasnt nice, but she breastfed for 45 mins! It wasnt painful or uncomfortable and I have a renewed enthusiasm to breastfeed! The thrush went 24 hours after she had her tongue-tie cut. She also put on 5 oz this week. Sarah Bridges also stretched As tongue and it has made a HUGE difference to her mouth. I am hoping that this will be the turning point when it comes to feeding her. 17 weeks: A is now gaining 1oz a day. I am topping up twice a day with expressed
BREASTFEEDING BUTTERFLY FROM www.fayeandlou.co.uk, 24.95
My daughter Amilee was born by vaginal breech three weeks early, weighing 5lbs 10oz. On top of this, by the time she was three days old she had reflux, oral thrush and could not latch on when she tried to breastfeed. She was also jaundiced and tongue-tied. Tongue-tie symptoms can include cracking, distortion, blanching or bleeding from your nipple, sometimes followed by blocked ducts or mastitis, severe breast pain, thrush (you and baby), babys poor latch, a sleepy baby (from sucking hard), slow weight gain, wind, reflux, incessant crying and inability to settle. Later on it can affect eating solids and speech development, depending on the severity. Looking for support, I went to a breastfeeding clinic run by Maternity Network member and Association of Breastfeeding Mothers (ABM) breastfeeding counsellor, Sarah Bridges, and Lactation Consultant and tongue-tie specialist, Pam Lacey. Day 9: I visited Sarahs clinic where they diagnosed a severe tongue-tie and thrush. No wonder it has been so hard to feed Amilee. It explains why she wont latch on and why its so painful. They helped me get her onto the breast with a nipple shield. At least shes at the breast. Day 20: We had Amilees tongue-tie cut by a specialist and she went onto my breast
breast milk and my supply is increasing to 6 oz every morning. 20 weeks: Im now totally breastfeeding A. She doesnt cry after a feed, she doesnt bob on and off and she now drinks much more efficiently in one stretch which means I dont need to express any more, all the hard work has been worth it; Amilee can breastfeed and I am over the moon! For more information and an online directory of local support, visit: www.thematernitynetwork.co.uk Association of Breast Feeding Mothers www.abm.me.uk Breastfeeding Network www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk The Breastfeeding Manifesto www.breastfeedingmanifesto.org.uk
Lets Go Mummy!
Getting back in shape was a real priority for me, so finding Sarahs mum and baby class has enabled this in a really positive, fun and friendly way. Its also great that my daughter enjoys the class meeting new babies, stimulating music and lots of movement. Meinir Hughes
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OCAL mum and entrepreneur Lisa Long has reached the finals of The Mumpreneur Awards, a conference and awards ceremony aimed at celebrating women throughout the UK who manage the difficult task of juggling business with family life. The mother of two, from Maidenhead, is the creative owner of More Than Words, an online business selling bespoke and limited edition typographic artwork.The business was launched in February 2010 as a way for Lisa to stay at home with her young children, while maintaining a career. Lisa has been shortlisted for the Most Unique Product Award. Having launched the business only six months ago, More Than Words now sells online at www.MoreThanWords.uk.com and also through three online boutiques. Her products have featured in national magazines and top UK blogs. She has recently created a design commission as a keepsake for Dannii Minogues new baby. As well as being shortlisted for this category, Lisa is also in with a chance of winning the title of The Inspirational Business Mum
2010, which will be awarded to the mum who is an inspiration to all women in business, and could walk away with a range of fantastic prizes. We featured Lisa in the May/June issue of Families and wish her the very best of luck. The award winners will be announced at the Mumpreneur Conference on September 18 at the Heart of England Conference Centre in Warwickshire. Lisa says the business has really taken off in the last few months: Within a week of launching my Vintage Framed Canvas it was featured in the national Wedding Ideas magazine and I have since been asked to decorate their new headquarters with my artwork. The product has also recently been featured in Berkshire and Buckinghamshire County Wedding magazine. Plus a beautiful interiors shop on Eton High Street, Hush Home, will now be stocking a range of my non-personalised typographic artwork. To find out more about More Than Words, please visit Lisas website www.MoreThanWords.uk.com. More Than Words can be found on Twitter (@MoreThanWordArt) and on Facebook and the blog is at morethanwordstypography.blogspot.com/
COMPETITION WINNER, ISSUE 49: Family ticket to Marwell Zoo: Karen Richardson
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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Classifieds
Earn Extra Income from Home 100-500+per month No stock to buy or hold Work from home, No staff Up-front bonuses Income you can bank on Part-time, full-time, any-time for ANYBODY No experience necessary full training provided Free Email: info@extraincomestar.co.uk Mob: 0796 180 5998 Take 20% to 30% off from your house bills every month Save money on your household bills every time you buy: Food and Fuel Clothing DIY Health and beauty products Household and electrical goods Email: info@saving-guru.co.uk Mob: 0796 180 5998
Does your child need help with Reading? English? Maths? 11+ preparation?
Ex-headteacher offers friendly, patient tuition in Burnham/Taplow area. 1st Class Hons degree, member of IFL, CRB checked. Christine Shaw 01628 663411
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07748 645161
Alekhya Art Classes
Learn to draw, paint and also do crafts! Tel: 01628 634418 or email shalinib@gmail.com
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URE Property Law is a new legal practice Nadine Blacklock and Maya owned by Donna Spence and Nadine Blacklock. Ascot-based Nadine says they both wanted jobs that fitted around family life. As mothers we wanted to take control of our careers and so Pure Property Law was born. The practice covers all areas of property law; residential conveyancing, landlord and tenant, commercial property, possession proceedings and litigation. Nadine feels one of their main strengths is flexibility. As working mums we know life is busy and so we work around our clients, meeting clients at their home or office, daytime or evening. They also make sure their clients are fully informed at all times by using email and text updates to let clients know when they reach the key stages in their transaction. They also pride themselves on the personal service that they give. Clients always speak to one of us, not an automated telephone machine. We are very competitively priced and because we own the business we care about the service our clients receive. For more information go to www.purepopertylaw.com. 01344 876854.
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www.familiestveast.co.uk
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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk