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Hello At Chatterbox we couldn‘t help but be a little excited about 2012 being the year of the Olympics. What a perfect excuse to get your little ones to try a new sport or activity! With that in mind we have lots of ideas for things to do now the weather is getting abit warmer and the days are getting a little longer.
Our health, and that of our children, is such a precious thing, and something we should never take for granted. Our local stars, Jenny and son Sam , on page30, are a reminder of this. Everyday families are battling cancer either with their children or themselves. Amy‘s Retreat is a very special place that helps these families. Happy new year to all our readers and supporters whatever you‘re up to this year we hope it‘s a fit a healthy one.
Noah showing off his golf skills
Jenny has looked at the traditional ball games we did at school like football and tennis. Jodie fills us in on some different sport that we‘ve called active fun, like gymnastics, dancing and swimming. We‘ve even covered the more alternative activities that can help develop your child in different ways such as yoga and trampolining. And if that‘s not enough we have lots of ideas that won‘t cost you a penny PS. I will be leaving Chatterbox in the Sumon pages 18 and 19. mer to concentrate on a new business venture, so the team will be looking for a new With health and fitness in mind the Chattereditor. See the ad on page 4 for more details. box team will be running the Race for Life this June, you can sponsor us by visiting What’s in this issue: www.justgiving.com/chatterboxsheffield. This is such a great way for new Mums to get their 5 What‘s On fitness back after having a baby. 9 Ball Games After Noah was born one of the first activities I 10 Active Fun did was a gentle run along the Rivelin Valley 14 Healthy Smoothy recipes every Saturday morning with a group of new16 Free of Cheap Fun Mum-friends. We went at a gentle pace and we were all grateful for the break and the 23 Try Something Different chance to get out of the house and get abit of 25 Craft Time exercise, our goal was to run the Race for Life 28 Mum‘s Health and we did it together that summer. 30 Amy‘s Retreat
32 Disposable Nappy Nightmare
Annual Subscription Form If you enjoy reading Chatterbox, why not subscribe to ensure you receive all 4 issues? To subscribe, please send us a cheque for £4.00 payable to ‗Chatterbox‘, along with this completed form to: ‗Chatterbox’, c/o: 6 Bosworth St, Sheffield, S10 1HB Name: …………………………………………………………………………….. Address: ..………………………………………………………………………… 3
Chatterbox Needs You! Would you like to: Meet new people with shared interests in your local area? Learn a new skill that you can put on your CV after your maternity leave? Come up with fresh ideas of how Chatterbox can work in our community? Then now‘s your chance! We are recruiting new members for the magazine, if you enjoy reading Chatterbox and would like to get involved we are looking for people to fill the following roles: Editor Writers and distributors The team meet 6—8 times a year to chat about the magazine over a glass of wine or a brew and some cake. We are always open to new ideas and suggestions and welcome any new members. If you might be interested send an email to either Kate or Amy at chatterbox.sheffield@gmail.com or chatterboxwhatson@googlemail.com
Chatterbox competition with Go Outdoors. WIN £220 WORTH OF OUTDOOR CLOTHING! As this month's issue is all about getting active, our competition is sponsored by GO Outdoors Ltd of Bramall Lane. For your chance to get out and get active with your little ones in some of the best outdoor gear on the market answer the simple question below:
The Prizes A top end waterproof jacket for mum or dad - choose from either a Men's North Ridge Zenith Jacket RRP £160 or a Women's North Ridge Vision Jacket RRP £160 And a toasty warm & dry 3-in-1 jacket for your child - Sprayway Blizzard jacket RRP £60 Choice of colours and sizes available but may be subject to availability!
The Competition Name 3 different animals you can find in Sheffield that start with the letter B Send your answer to chatterbox.sheffield@gmail.com. Please include your name, contact number and address. Closing Date; 31st March! Please note that by entering this competition you consent to us taking a lovely smiley photo of you & your child in your new jackets. This will be used by us in the next issue of Chatterbox so that we can show all our readers how fabulous you look! It may also be used by GO Outdoors Ltd. 4
WHAT‘S ON
Spring What’s On Guide Regular Events Monday
Baby time at Upperthorpe Library 10.30 to 11.30am.
Monday
Story time at Walkley Library 2-3pm during term time. All welcome. Please call the library for more information Tel 231 2947.
Monday
Kino Bambino at the Showroom Cinema. 11am special screenings for parents with babies under the age of 1. For information visit www.showroomworkstation.org.uk Story time for under 5s at Broomhill Library 2–3pm [term time only]. Crafts and stories. Free - just pop in!
Mon andFriday 1st Mon
Parent life line support group For any parent or carer. Why not come along for an informal chat & coffee with other parents. In our Sheffield Office at 7pm. For information or to book a place please call June on 273 0269.
Tues.
Baby time at Broomhill Library, 10.00-11.00 [call 0114 273 4276 for details]
Tues
Storytime at Hillsborough Library. 2-3pm.
1st and 3rd Fri.
Toddlertime at Walkley Library, South Road. Friday 10.30-11.30am. 1st and 3rd Fridays during term time.Tel 231 2947.
2nd Fri.
Baby time at Walkley Library.10.30 to 11.30am, 2nd Friday of the month.
Every 2nd Fri of the month
Stepping Stones at St. Columba‘s Church, Crosspool. 1.45pm—3pm. Group for the under 5s and their carers inc. singing, bible studies, crafts, fun and refreshments. Call Fiona on 07870132 471 for info.
Saturday
Art craft - Creative craft activities for 3 -10 years, Millennium Galleries. Free, drop in 1–3pm. www.museums-sheffield.org.uk.
Sunday
Family activity time - Suitable for 3 - 7 years Millennium Galleries, Metalwork Gallery. Free. Drop in from 11.30am -1.30pm or 2 - 4pm.
Every Sat. & Sun.
Discovery time. Weston Park Museum: storytelling, crafts & puzzles. Free. 12.30 - 1.15pm & 2 - 2.45pm. Book 30 minutes before session.
March 3rd March
Carnival of the animals at Weston Park produced by Sheffield‘s Music Academy. 2pm—3pm. Free of charge
3rd March
Explore Shirebrook Valley with the Rangers. Dads & kids Saturday. Take part in a variety of challenges to test your natural knowledge. Meet at Alan Bailey visitor Centre, Stone Lane Woodhouse, 10.00-15.00. Tel 2751176.
3rd March
Ranger guided walk Grindleford. Meet at Grindleford railway station. Booking not required, free entry. Suitable for families 10.30-15.30 Tel .Ranger service 01629 816211
10th March Go Wild in Weston Park. Sheffield Wildlife Trust and Museums Sheffield are looking for wildlife detectives to explore the outdoors. 11am-1pm. Book in advance by calling 01142634335. 5
WHAT‘S ON 11th & 25th Abbeydale Miniature Railway. First trains run at 13.00 last trains at 17.00 March Refreshment kiosk available. Car park closes at 17.15 Abbeydale Road South S17 3Lb. 10th March Tissington village & railway 2.75 mile walk. Led by the Rangers. Easy terrain, asphalt, grass, some stiles. Suitable for families, booking not required. Meet Tissington trail car park 10am –1pm. Tel Ranger service 01629 816211 18th March Sow the seed at Dore recreation ground. Join the Rangers and Dore village society to sow wildflower seeds on an earth mound to attract a range of butterflies and insects to the site. Meet at the Rangers van on the recreation ground. Tel Rangers south west team on 268 6196 31st March— 15th April
Who goes there? Follow the tracks to discover amazing animals at The Tropical Butterfly House, Woodsetts Rd, North Anston S25 4EQ. Find out about footprints, droppings, and pellets. Enjoy themed crafts and activities. Suitable for all ages.
31st March Easter egg trail, Chapletown Park Bandstand. Come and search for Easter eggs around Chapletown park and get a reward! 10am.
April 31st March- Easter Eggstravaganza at Chatsworth during regular opening hours. Easter 15th April trails in the house, garden and farmyard. Themed crafts in the farmyard and much more. See website for details: www.chatsworth.org 8th & 9th April
Easter Egg hunt at The Tropical Butterfly House, Anston. Join the trail for your chocolate reward. Spectacular free flying birds of prey and parrot shows will also be taking place.
9th April
CBeebies live! Reach to the stars! At the Motorpoint Arena Tel 256 5656
1st—9th April
Easter Fun at The Heights of Abraham. Easter egg hunt. Make Victorian Easter baskets and enter the great Easter balloon race. Victorian Easter baskets 11.30 and 14.00, Great Easter balloon race 12.30 and 15.15, Adults £12.50. Under 5‘s free. Tel 01629 582365
2nd & 3rd April
Little Princess live on stage. Adult £12 Child £10, at The Pomegranate Theatre, Corporation Street, Chesterfield S41 7TX. Tel Tourist Information 01246 345777 6
WHAT‘S ON 8th & 9th April
Easter extravaganza at Renishaw Hall and Gardens. Fun Easter egg hunt, free face painting, and a balloon artist among other family entertainment. Easter themed treats and lunches available. £3 per person. 10.30—16.30. Last entry to the Easter egg hunt 15.30. Tel Renishaw Park 01246 432310
2nd April & 7th May
Go Wild! Fun Family Walk at Hardwick Hall, with activities along the way, don‘t forget your willies! 10.30am-11.30am. Tel. 01246 851787.
2nd April
Super Sunflowers. Family activity at Norfolk Park Heritage Centre in the park . Nearest tram stop Arbourthorne Road. 1pm-3pm. We‘ll provide everything you need ! Tel Rangers 2751176
3rd April
Signs of Spring at Graves Park. See which animals have been newly born this year and explore the park with the rangers to look for signs of Spring. 1pm-3pm. Tel Rangers 268 6196
3rd April
Rivelin Easter Fun. Family activity. Meet by the playground near the café 1pm3pm. Telephone the Rangers on 2403578 for more information .
8th,9th & 22nd April
Abbeydale Miniature Railway. See March listing for information.
6th, 7th & 8th April
Easter Trail and crafts at Hardwick Hall. Enjoy an Easter trail around the garden, face painting and other activities. Chocolate prize for all entrants. 11am-4pm. Tickets £3. Tel. 01246 858400
6th-9th April Easter Egg Trails at the Longshaw Estate. Find the painted eggs around the Longshaw estate [about 4 miles] and win a prize. Face painting and colouring competition included. 10.30-3.30pm. Tickets £3. Tel. 01433 670368.
May 12th May
RSPB Walk to see and hear the cemetry’s bird life. General Cemetry. Cemetry Avenue (Off Ecclesall road ) S11 8NT.
20th, 29th & Abbeydale Miniature Railway. First trains leave at 13.00 last train 17.00. Car 30th May park closes at 17.15. See March listing for details 27th May
Traditional Sports Day at Clumber Park. Date TBC—check National Trust website nearer time for conf. Novelty races, have-a-go sessions and entertainment throughout the day. 11am-4pm. Normal admission charges apply.
Don‘t forget for more up-to-date listings of events visit our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/chatterboxsheffield, and please remember to email us with information of your local event at chatterboxwhatson@googlemail.com, we love to hear from you. 7
8
GET ACTIVE
Play Ball! Being a mum of a toddler can be exhausting as they have so much energy, writes Jenny! Ball games are a great way to expend some of this energy whilst also encouraging your child into doing physical exercise at an early age. Ball sports also have many other benefits such as improving your little one‘s cognitive skills, self-confidence, balance, motor skills, coordination and social skills. Children are never too young to play ball games and you can encourage your baby to play with soft balls at home. When they are a little older there are a whole variety of ball games for you to choose from, these include introductions to traditional sports such as football, rugby, tennis, netball, bowls, basketball and rounders. There are also classes which incorporate a mixture of sports skills and physical activities such as Playball and Funky Monkeys. The ethos of Playball is making sport fun through imaginative play. Here children from as young as two get an informal introduction to ball and motor skills, leading to more structured sports participation. Each stage includes defined age specific objectives which are realised within the course of the year. Funkey monkeys sessions offer a fun and lively mix of physical activities and sports skills. The sessions will also teach essential skills such as agility, balance and co-ordination through soft play. See our website for more listings: chatterboxmagazine.blogspot.com. Class
Age
Where and when
Price
More info
Playball
2.5—5
CDYST Sports Crosspool, Mon-Fri mornings Ashdell School, Broomhill, Sat mornings.
£4.50-£5 per session, (The first session is free).
www.yorkshire.playballuk. com
Football [Technetots]
18 months to school age
Ecclesall Parish Halls, Thurs. See website for details
Rugby [Ruggereds]
3-6
Abbeydale Sports Club Tues, Sat and Sun
£7 per session
ruggereds.co.uk
Football
Under 6s
Lucozade powerleague, S9. Mon 4pm.
£4 per session
www.sj-sportsacademy.co.uk Tel. 07947305275
Multisports
Under 6s
Lucozade powerleague, S9. Tues 4pm.
£4 per session
www.sj-sportsacademy.co.uk Tel. 07947305275
Tennis [Tiny tots]
3-4
Abbeydale Tennis Club, Dore. See website for details.
Funky Monkeys
1-4
St Oswalds Scout Hut, Archer Lane, Sheffield, S7 2BT 10 - 10.40am.
www.techneglobal.com
abbeydaletennisclub.com
£4 [siblings over 12 months £1.50] 9
www.funkymonkeys.co.uk
10
GET ACTIVE
Active Fun As 2012 begins, officially our greatest year of sport ever, it‘s never too early to start training up your future champions, writes Jodie! Most of the time kids seem to be happy kicking a ball around the park, or if yours are anything like mine, simply running can keep them occupied for hours. But there are plenty of other sports on offer for preschoolers... My boys love a gymnastics class called Gymini. Held on Thursdays and Fridays at Fulwood Scout Hut, it‘s 45 minutes of challenging activities designed to help children learn to climb, balance, jump and roll. The session is made-up as a circuit, and you can opt in and out when you want to, and of course when the children decide, so it‘s not a problem if they‘re not playing ball that particular day! It‘s also fine for younger ones who may just want to crawl around, as there are plenty of balls and toys to keep them occupied while the older ones attempt the more challenging aspects of the circuit. Swimming is a great way to instill your kids, even babies, with confidence in the water. There are many classes dotted around the city: Heeley provide sessions for under 3s on Thursday afternoons and Sunday mornings. They are supervised, but not directly, so if you‘re looking for an actual lesson it‘s worth looking at the sessions provided at Mylnhurst school, which I‘ve had recommended by several friends. Swim Star and Dolphins Swim Club offer lessons from two and a half, and have water-based assistants and a qualified teacher in the pool. They offer lessons midweek and at weekends. Here are some suggestions of warm-water sessions ideal for younger children accompanied in the water by their parents: King Edward Swimmimng Pool Tel 267 1116 Monday 10-11.45 , Tuesday 1.30- 3.30. Babies must be 6 months old to attend this session ,the water is warm at 33 C. There are rafts and toys in the pool and playpens and safety seats in the changing room. Cost £5, extra adult £3. Note one adult with one child aged 6 months -4 years. Hillsborough Pool Tel 231 2233 Baby Splash Tuesday and Wednesday at Hillsborough Leisure Centre 11.30-12.30. For babies 3 months - 4 years with parental supervision . Heeley Swimming Pool Tel 250 0443 Splash Splash. Fun for baby and you in this dedicated pay-as-you-go recreational session for parent and toddlers. Monday 10 -11, Wednesday 9.30- 10.30 and 1.30- 2.30. Thursday 1.30-2.30, Sunday 8.30-10.00. Booking is recommended as spaces are limited.
Freddie enjoying swimming!
Continued on page 12... 11
GET ACTIVE Something I‘d never really thought of for Under 5s is trampolining, but I‘m assured it‘s very popular with preschoolers! Pond‘s Forge has a range of classes starting from age three, their website has more details. Tuesday and Thursdays half hourly sessions from 12.30-2pm Tel: 0114 223 3400. www.ponds-forge.co.uk. Ballet is hugely popular with my friends‘ girls, and there are some boys who go too apparently so they‘re not excluded! The Bailey Cox Dance Academy holds classes from age three. Sessions are three quarters of an hour, and described as ―creative fun‖. The classes include both ballet and tap. Toddler dance is a fun way to spend an hour on Tuesday mornings at Ecclesall Parish Halls. It‘s run by Lizzy, an enthusiastic teacher who engages the children in role-play to music, playing with ribbons, instruments, scarves, wands: all sorts of things that keep them entertained! It‘s light-hearted and fun, and especially good on wet days for the kids to run off some steam! Other dance schools that offer different types of classes include City limits which gives children 3-6 years old the opportunity to learn Street dancing and Ball room and Latin on Saturday mornings and also the more traditional Ballet and Tap. £4 a session. For more information or to book a place please ring Nicola on 0114 2344866 or visit www.city-limits.co.uk/ And last, but by no means least, have you ever thought your kids might enjoy orienteering?! My husband and I are keen runners, and friends who are also runners have recommended orienteering. It offers a gentle introduction for Under 5s where the kids have to race around following string along a course to get to the finish! It‘s also a very friendly family day out. Contact South Yorkshire Orienteers for further information.
More active kid’s clubs: Acctivate, fortnightly children‘s club run by Asperger‘s Children and Carers Together for children aged 3 to 12 with Aspergers and High Functioning Autism, their siblings and their parents, laying on such activities as arts and crafts, sports, computers, lego and playmobil and animation, and a relaxation room plus separate room where parents can relax and get a cup of tea or coffee, St Marys Community Centre, Bramall Lane, Saturday, 9.45am12.15pm. (www.acctsheffield.org.uk, Emma 07527 824034). Soccer Kids, children‘s football training for boys and girls ages four to 13 of all ability level, Tapton School, Darwin Lane, Crosspool, Saturdays, 9am-11am (£3.50-£4, first session free, just turn up and register). Also see the Sheffield Telegraph listings section for up-to-date listings of clubs and preschool activities www.sheffieldtelegraph.co.uk. Don’t forget to update us with your local kids sports or social club at www.facebook.com/chatterboxsheffield.
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13
EAT HEALTHY
Smoothies for Kids This edition of Chatterbox is all about getting out and about and being active, writes Angela. Encouraging children to eat and drink more healthily can be an ongoing challenge. Blending fruit into a smoothie was suggested to me as a different way to get children to eat fruit. Not only did we find that home made smoothies are really yummy but they are also a great way to use up any fruit that is getting a bit old because you can experiment with different fruits and flavours. I decided to try three different recipes and see what a group of toddlers thought about the different flavours. One in particular proved to be a big hit and I was asked for ―more please‖ and ―mmmm mmmmm‖ as a few of them wanted to finish drinking it.
The Smoothies Peel and chop the fruit into small pieces. Add the fruit to a blender and whizz until smooth. Alternatively use a hand blender although this works better with soft fruit.
Blueberry and orange
Pear and Apple
Handful of blueberries 2 Satsumas or 1 orange Half a pint of orange juice
2 pears 1 apple Splash of water
This smoothie did not blend smooth but it tastes better than it looks, it turns a purple colour but does thicken and separates if left and will need stirring. It was popular with those who liked blueberries.
This smoothie was quite thick and had a smooth texture. It became a rich dark brown colour when it was left. This was popular with the younger toddlers.
Other ingredients to try: Tinned fruit is a convenient , preprepared method to try. Make sure it is in natural juices and not syrup. Ice Natural yoghurt Frozen berries Melon As a treat ice-cream can be added Mango 14
EAT HEALTHY Pinapple, Nectarine and Banana 2 nectarines A handful of chopped pineapple Half a banana This smoothie had an even texture and is a bright sunny yellow / orange colour. This was the most popular flavour and one of the group said ―mmm that‘s really nice‖.
Colours and textures are important in smoothies, the smoother the better as many children are put off by drinks with ‗bits in it‘. Bright colours are attractive, fruit like nectarines, strawberries and plums add colour and are often sweet in flavour. Orange juice is useful to make the smoothie runnier but if you do not want to change the flavour water works well. Once blended fruit flavours often become stronger, bear this in mind when mixing fruit like banana. The government is currently running a scheme called ―Change 4 life‖. This is to promote us to ‗eat well, move more and live longer‘. The website has lots of hints and tips on how to do this as well as personal surveys with action plans you can take to review the eating habits of your family. To find out more visit the website www.nhs.uk/change4life. If you have any favourite smoothie recipes add them to our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ 15
GET ACTIVE
Free or Cheap Fun There are many opportunities for both indoor and outdoor fun which are either inexpensive or free and can be adapted as your child grows. Here are some suggestions from our secretary Kate and the Chatterbox Team. Throwing and Catching Many children do not know how to throw or catch a ball. Learning how to do this can be made into a fun game. How high can you throw the ball? How many times can you throw the ball? When the weather is really bad this can also be played indoors with very small children with a soft ball, and is a great way of developing their hand-eye coordination. Tiggy Bum down Tiggy Bum down is currently one of Charlotte‘s favourite games! If you are crouching down you cannot be tigged by the person who is ―It ―. This game involves lots of running and is considerably easier for children than adults! Hide and Seek This one really needs no explanation and is also a good indoor game. Make sure if you‘re playing outside with small children it is in a safe environment with hiding places you are familiar with and do not pose any dangers to over-zealous toddlers. Hiding places could be made safe by building easy tents from old-sheets or hanging them from a washing line. Flying a kite A kite can be homemade or shop bought. Spider Park at the top of Crimicar Lane is very often windy and is a great place to fly a kite. Easter Egg Hunt or Treasure Hunt These can be both indoor and outdoor activities and can involve as much activity as your little ones can manage. Collecting chocolate eggs or finding treasure can also start to develop numeracy skills (How many eggs did you eat?) Children can also be asked to find items from a list ie. a blue ball, a book, a wooden spoon, and see who can find them the quickest. This can be adapted to outdoor play or a visit to the supermarket.
Finn and Noah building a den
Den-building in any local woods can be a real adventure for an imaginative toddler. Make the practice of collecting the sticks an exercise by running further and further each time.
16
GET ACTIVE Cycling and Scooting Sheffield is a hilly place to start cycling or using a scooter. Hillsborough Park, Bingham Park, Endcliffe Park, and Millhouses Park all have areas with flat paths. Using a scooter is often a good way of encouraging a reluctatant toddler to be independent and walk more. Especially useful if you have a baby in a buggy plus a toddler .
Charlottle loves her bike
If wanting to cycle further than your local park the National Trust website has downloadable cycle trail leaflets which are graded from easy to challenging [www.nationaltrust.org.uk]. The Manifold Valley Cycle Trail is a particular favourite as much of the trail has been tarmaced. The Monsal Head trail opened last summer and runs from Hassop to Bakewell[hassopstation.co.uk]. For those feeling less active there is an excellent café and bookshop together with cycle hire available at Hassop. The cafe has a very good children‘s menu together with meat and veggie options for adults . Traditional Sports Day Fun Ok, so we all remember them from our school days, so why not turn a group of friends with blankets and a picnic in the park into some active fun for everyone, the more involved parents are with these games, the more likely the kids are to join in. There are the traditional sports day games like egg and spoon racing, pass the orange, and wheel barrow racing. Flip the kipper is another fun one for toddlers. Each player has a fish cut from a piece of newspaper which they can decorate themselves to distinguish it from the other kippers, and the aim is to flap it along the ground by whacking the ground behind it with a rolled up piece of newspaper. These activities could easily be included in an Easter fun-day for the kids, and are perfect for long lazy summer days. Also see Lisa‘s lovely craft idea on page 27 which is another fun free Easter game. Free Dance Although there are lots of fun dance classes mentioned on page 12, this is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to entertain your little one at home for free. This can be using either a CD radio or even the adverts on the TV. Encourage your children to think of different moves and to dance at different speeds. You can even get creative with home-made props like bottles filled with rice as maracas, old ribbon to make patterns and even skipping ropes to jump over. For older children the website change 4 life has dance steps and games . Now the weather is starting to get a little warmer look out for local jumble sales and car boot sales, these can be a gold-mine for finding sports gear and equipment that has sat in someone else‘s cupboard, unused for months. Cheap mini -golf clubs, tennis rackets, table tennis bats and cricket bats can be a really cheap way to introduce your toddler to a new sport without having to invest in lots of expensive equipment. Don’t forget to post your ideas for free family fun on our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/chatterboxsheffield. 17
Looking to join a Pregnancy Yoga Class? I run a small, friendly yoga classes in the local area & Hathersage.
Pregnancy Yoga Classe s: Sharrow - Tue 18:00 & 19:45 Hathersage - Wed 18:00
Mum & Baby Yoga : Sharrow - Tue 11:00 Handsworth - Wed 11:30 Hathersage - Thurs 14:30
Toddlers & Family Yoga : Sharrow - Fri 11:30
Infant Massage : Hunt ers Bar - Thurs 11:30 All sessions must be booked in advance of attendance
Please contact me, Nicola Harpin on: 07739490143 email pregnantyogini@hotmail.com www.pregnantyogini.com
www.elite-karate.co.uk 18
Playgroups Children can be left unaccompanied at playgroup sessions from the age of 2 to 3 depending on the playgroup. We suggest you put your child‘s name on the waiting list as soon as they are 2. Please help us keep this list up-to-date by telling us about any new local groups or changes to the groups below by contacting Lorna at toddlergroups.chatterbox@googlemail.com Crosspool Community PreSchool
Lydgate Infant School, Lydgate Lane (use own entrance). Every day sessions run from 8.45 – 11.45am and from 12.15 – 3.15. For more details contact Lauren on 268 3444.
Endcliffe Playgroup
Endcliffe Methodist Church, Ecclesall Rd (use Neill Road Entrance). Mon, Wed and Thurs from 9am to 11.30am. Free Early Learning places for over 3‘s. Contact Gina on 2670630.
Fulwood Play Group
Christ Church Youth Centre, Canterbury Avenue. Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri. 9.15am to 11.45am. Call Fiona on 263 2603.
Rivelin Playgroup
Rivelin Primary School, Morley Street, Hillsborough. Weds, Thurs and Fri. 9.15 – 11.15am. From 2 years +. For more details contact Megan on 07761 348993.
St. Columba’s Playgroup
St. Columba‘s Church, Manchester Rd, Mon & Wed, 9.30am – 11.30am. A traditional playgroup from 2 years to 4+. Contact Elaine on 30 5296.
Slinn Street Starters
Small independent community Preschool with garden in Crookes . Held Mon, Wed , Fri from 9.15 to 11.30 .for 2 1/2 to 4 year olds . Contact Gill on 2666346 or visit during sessions.
Stepping Stones, Broomhall
Jesus Centre, 93 Broomspring Lane (just off Hanover Way), Broomhall. Fridays 10am-12 noon (term time). Arts & crafts, snacks, songs & storytime. All free, all welcome! Contact Kat Jackson stardusky@gmail.com
St. Thomas’ Nursery
Nairn Street, Crookes. Held from 9am to 1pm on Mon, Tues & Fri. 9am to 3pm sessions available on Wed and Thurs. Registered to take Nursery grants. Contact Helen on 07791614910 or nursery@stthomascrookes.org.
Wisewood Community PreSchool
Wisewood Primary, Ben Lane, S6 4SD. Mon. – Thurs. 9-3pm and Fri. 9-12noon. From 2 ½ yrs. Contact Katie 234 3304.
Trinity Pre-School
United Reformed Church, Ecclesall Road. Held Tues & Weds from 9.45am to 11.45am.
For a list of Nurseries that provide full and part-time childcare, please contact the Children’s Information Service on 275 6699 19
Parent & Toddler /Baby Groups Please help us to keep this list up-to-date by letting us know of any new groups in the area, or changes to existing groups. Any changes or new groups, contact Lorna at: toddlergroups.chatterbox@googlemail.com. ClubOK St Stephen Church, Fawcett Street, S3. Sat. 1-3pm. Russian speaking, ages 0-12. Contact Olga on 07726971900. Crosspool Baby Group
The Beacon Methodist Church @ Stephen Hill, Manchester Rd. Tues. 10 – 11.30am term-time. For Bumps, Babies and Bairns. Contact Deacon Jan 230 1338 or Mavis 230 4152.
Fir Street
Walkley Community Centre, Walkley, Wed. 9.45 -11.15 am Contact Chloe 2346877.
First Step Toddler Group
Walkley Ebenezer Church, Greenhow St, Tues. 1-3pm and Thurs. 10-noon. Contact Margaret on 2349083 or Freda on 2311148.
Fulwood Toddler Group
Christ Church, Canterbury Ave. Mon., Wed. & Thurs. 10-11.30 am. Contact Carolyn on 230 8423.
Fulwood Babygroup
Christ Church, Canterbury Ave. Thurs. 10.30am-midday (mums-to-be welcome). Contact Church Office on 2301911.
Fulwood Men Behaving Dadly
Christ Church, Canterbury Ave. 3rd Sat. of each month, 10am – midday. Bacon butties and coffee for dads with playtime for 0 – 6s. Contact Rob on 2295637.
Hampdon View Baby & Toddlers
Hampdon View Church, Greaves St, Langsett Estate, Mon. 10-11.30am. Contact Anne-Marie on 233 4852.
Japanese Play Group
‗Nihongo-do Asobo‘. Walkley Community Centre, Sun. 11am-1pm. For anyone interested in Japanese language and culture. Contact Yuki on 222 8449.
Jubilee Tots
City Church Jubilee Centre, Wilson Road, S11. Mon. & Tues. 10-11.30am. Contact 268 2555.
Les Puces
St Polycarps Church Hall, Loxley Rd, S6. For children with at least 1 parent with French as 1st language. Meet monthly. Contact Elizabeth on 230 3759.
Les Petits Poissons
Walkley Community Centre, French speaking playgroup 0-12yrs, Fri. 3.30 – 5.30pm. Parents/carers should have a good level of spoken French. Contact Sylvie on 220 1508.
Mumbies
Hallam Methodist Church, Nether Green, Tue 10.30–midday. For Mums-to-be & new Mums/carers with babies. Contact Jo on 230 7073.
Music Zone
Music group with action songs, rhymes, movement, & instruments for children age 1-4+. St Mark‘s Church, Broomhill, Fri 10-11am. Contact Ben on 07812456984.
Se habla español en Sheffield
Old Junior School , South View Road S7. Saturdays 11:30 to 1:30. For Spanish speaking children and parents.Contact: jacquelinediaznieto@gmail.com 20
Parent & Toddler/Baby Groups continued Nether Green Nippers
Hallam Methodist Church, Nether Green. 0-3‘s group, Thurs. 10-11.30 am. Contact Cassie on 230 7952.
Noah’s Ark Baby & Toddler Groups
Wycliffe Independent Church, Hickmott Rd., Ecclesall. Ages 0-5 with parent/ carer for play, singing, story, craft and home baking. Weds. 9.45-11.15, termtime. Free. Contact Laura on 239 8004.
Noah’s Ark Dad’s Time
Wycliffe Independent Church, Hickmott Rd, Ecclesall. 1st Saturday of every month - 10.30am-12 noon. Age 0-5. Breakfast, story, singing & games. No Charge. Contact Dave on 230 2149.
Playtime Toddler
Phildadelphia Campus Playtime Centre, 6 Gilpin St. Mon.(includes singing and signing), Tues. (women only), Thurs. all 10-11.30am. Contact Church Office on 241 9560.
Playtime Baby Group
Phildadelphia Campus Playtime Centre, 6 Gilpin St. A new group for first-time mums and babies supported by health visitors. Thurs. 2-3.30pm. Contact Church Office on 241 9560.Also toddler groups: Mon.(includes singing and signing), Tues. (women only), Thurs. all 10-11.30am. Contact Church Office on 241 9560.
Primrose Children’s Centre
Sure Start, Creswick Street , S6 2TN. For further information on all the range of groups and activities contact Elizabeth on 07973 478192.
Ranmoor
Ranmoor Parish Centre, Ranmoor Park Rd, Wed. 10-11.30am. Contact Parish Centre on 230 1199.
Ripples
Christ Church Central, Fitzwilliam St, near Devonshire Green. Mon. & Thurs. 10-11.30am Mums–to–be welcome. Contact Claire 07803 930789
Sticky Fingers
Christchurch Endcliffe, St Augustine‘s, Brocco Bank. Mon and Thurs. 10– 11.30am. Age 0-4s. Waiting list. Contact Helen on 07752 546717.
St. Barts. Toddler Group
St. Bartholomew's Church, Primrose Hill/Burgoyne Rd, Langsett. Wed. 12.302pm. Contact Liz on 285 3075 or Catherine 233 5197.
St. Francis Church
Sandygate Rd, Wed & Thurs 9.30 -11.30am. Contact Lucy on 2687939 or Irena on 2678686.
St. Luke’s Bumps & Babies
Blackbrook Rd, Lodge Moor. Tues. 10-11.30am in church lounge. Contact Linda on 230 8585.
St Luke’s Toddlers
Blackbrook Rd, Lodge Moor. Wed. 10-11.30am. Contact Carolyn on 230 1544 and Fri. 10-11.30am Contact Alex on 07946 582276. Also Wed. 10-11.30am within the Toddler group.
St Thomas’ Dads & U 5’s St Thomas' Tots and Toddlers St Timothy's Sunbeams
Nairn St. Crookes. Sat. 9 –11am all year except Christmas and Easter. Babies to 5 yr olds. Contact via Helen Ward on 267 1090. Nairn St, Crookes. Mon & Fri 10-11.30am. Contact Helen Ward on 2671090.
Weekday Dads
Anytime, Any place, Anywhere!Contact wddadsheffield@googlegroups.com
Wesley Hall Playhour
Wesley Hall Methodist Church, Crookes Road. Wed. term-time only 1011.30am. Contact Lesley on 268 6603.
Slinn St., Crookes. Thurs. 9.45-11.15am. Contact Tracey on 266 1843.
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GET ACTIVE
And Now for Something Completely Different... Sheffield is a fantastic place to live, that boasts international sporting facilities, writes Karen, whether your child would enjoy vigorous activities like trampolining, or toddler yoga is more up their street. Get your child onto the ice at ICE Sheffield. Parent and child 2-4 years are invited to join the Penguin club. A 6 week course aimed at getting young children to Ice-skate. Mon/ Wed/ Fri 4.15- 4.45 £31.5. for more information telephone 0114 223 3900 www.icesheffield.com. Skiing is another skill that you may wish your child to learn. Sheffield Ski village offers the opportunity to teach 3-5 year olds how to conquer the slopes. Penguin Kinderski is one to one sessions. Helping to develop the basic skills whilst building confidence and ability.For more information Tel: 0114 276 0044 or visit www.sheffieldskivillage.co.uk. Yoga for children is an activity that boasts increased concentration levels, better sleep patterns and greater self esteem. Yoga Stars offers this opportunity from 2 ½ to 4 years old and through songs and stories teaches the child to relax and breath correctly. For more information contact Liz on 07811 281213. Toddler and family yoga sessions can also be undertaken in Sharrow on Fridays at 11.30. For information contact Nicola on 07739490143. www.pregnantyogini.com A lovely introduction into the world of Yoga. Martial arts can also be a fun way for young children to build confidence and self-esteem aswell as strength and fitness. For older kids there are lots of great schools including Elite Karate who take children from 6 years of age. Castle Martial Arts offers a mixed style of martial arts and will take children as young as 3 or 4 for 1 to 1 sessions while parents watch, before introducing them to classes. They have locations around Sheffield including the main super centre on Abbeydale Road, Ecclesall and Totley Brook Road, for more information visit their website—www.castlebba.co.uk. If you‘re feeling really brave, climbing at one of our local climbing walls can be possible even with young kids. At The Climbing Works, toddlers can use the children‘s boulders but must be supervised by a qualified adult—this means parents must take an adult induction course and become a member before bringing a child along. Full details on the website: www.climbingworks.com or call 0114 250 9990. Finally, a great way to get outside and enjoy the beautiful countryside around us is horse-riding. Ladybooth Equestrian Centre in the Hope Valley offers a Tots Toddle—a brilliant way to introduce young kids from about the age of 3 to ride one to one lead rein sessions. For information visit: www.ladybooth.co.uk or call 01433 670205.
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Chatterbox on-line
Chatterbox advertising rates and info
There are lots of ways to keep up to date with Chatterbox information on-line.
Rates per edition: 1/4 page—£20 1/2 page—£40 Full page—£100
Our new website has lots of practical information like our playgroup listings and places to visit in our area if you‘re stuck for things to do: chatterboxmagazine.blogspot.com
We depend on advertising income for our continued existence. If you‘re responding to an advert in Chatterbox please mention this to the advertiser so they will advertise with us again!
Our Facebook page has up-to-date information about events in our area and interesting discussion topics the Chatterbox team are talking about at the moment: www.facebook.com/chatterboxsheffield
We distribute 2000 copies throughout our area which is a great way for your business or company to target the right people. Discounted rates are available for adverts run on an annual basis. For more information or to advertise please contact Louise at: advertising.chatterbox@gmail.com.
And don‘t forget if you missed the latest issue or want to catch up on back issues you can read or download our most-recent magazines at: issuu.com/chatterboxsheffield
Meet the team Editor
Amy
chatterbox.sheffield@gmail.com
Deputy Editor
Jodie
Secretary and What’s On
Kate
chatterboxwhatson@googlemail.com Tel. 07904194303
Advertising
Louise
advertising.chatterbox@gmail.com
Facebook and web
Charlotte
www.facebook.com/chatterboxsheffield
Illustrator
Fran
cover designer
Kerry
Finance
Amela
Subscriptions
Kate
Sales & Wants and groups
Lorna
Writers
Jodie, Jenny, Angela, Kate, Lisa, Helen, Karen
Distributors
Kate, Brenda, Kate H, Sally, Vicky, Angela, Lorna, Sophie, Hilary, Kate C, Amela
Toddlergroups.chatterbox@gmail.com
Chatterbox is run entirely by volunteers. We are all Mums who meet four times a year [sometimes more often for a drink and to share our toddler tales]. Contributions from parents or carers from any section of the community are always welcome. If you‘d like to be involved drop us an email or or call us, details above. Thanks to everyone who helped to compile this issue and those who helped distribute it. Please note: The views expressed in Chatterbox are those of the individual contributors and not necessarily shared by the team. 24
CRAFT TIME
Easter Craft Fun Here‘s how to make a sporty football playing rabbit, to help you spring into spring and have some sporty fun! (you could even make two teams and hold your own rabbit football tournament, with homemade medals and trophies for prizes). Words and pictures by Lisa. You will need: Glue Paintbrush Paint (your own team colours) Strong card White card Eyes (or draw them on!) Little red circle for a nose Wool for whiskers if desired, and other decorations for the rabbits face
2.
How to: Step one: Adult preparation, which is always best done well in advance!; draw and cut out a simple rabbit shape using the strong card (large circle for the body, small circle for the head, two small semi circles for the paws, and two long floppy ears, and cut out two finger holes at the bottom). Cut out a t-shirt shape using the white card. Step two: Stick down the eyes, nose, whiskers, and t-shirt. Step three: Decorate the rabbit‘s football t-shirt with any design you like, maybe invent your own football team. Hope you have lots of sporting fun this spring!
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Sales and Wants FREE ADVERTISING! Advertise your baby or children's toys or equipment for free in the next edition of Chatterbox. Contact Lorna at toddlergoups.chatterbox@gmail.com by the 10th of April. Remember to include your phone number and/or email address. FOR SALE Mamas & Papas "Guinevere" beech wood cot with storage drawer, drop side, teething rails & 3 position base, £25. JoJo Maman Bebe Changing Unit with underneath storage, £15. Colourful wooden toddle truck with wooden alphabet bricks, £10. VTech First Steps Baby Walker, £5. ELC Click Clack Caterpillar, £2.50. Mothercare push along ladybird, £2. Fabric "My Calendar" wall hanger with velcro days,months, weather etc, £2. Contact Kerry (Crosspool) 2303547 or 07837 724337 Wooden nappy changing stand with shelf, good condition, £5. 2 x Mothercare extending white stairgates, good condition, £10 each. Chicco blue high chair, £10. Mothercare travel cot, excellent condition, £25. Chicco baby walker, £5. VTech First Steps baby walker, excellent condition, £10. Gro anywhere blackout blind, excellent condition, £20. Tomy baby monitors,
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good condition, £15. ‗I love my bear‘ baby bath and top and tail bowl, good condition, £10. Sundries: travel changing mat, 12 white muslins, red potty, clip on pram toy, blue changing mat, M&S weaning book, nappy sacks, all for £10. Contact Sarah 0114 2303906 or 07867807836. HAMAX child carrier bicycle seat – very good condition - £30 Mamas and Papas travel cot – very good condition - £20 onoBabybjorn baby carrier - £35 Vaude baby carrier – very good condition -£120. Contact Rachel 07771663711 or 01142853240 WANTED Boys Bike - to suit tall 6 year old (20 inch wheel?), up to £50 offered. Contact Jenny 07880787193
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TIME FOR YOU
New Mum Health and Well-Being According to Wikipedia, cabin fever is ‗a claustrophobic reaction that takes place when a person is in a small space with nothing to do for an extended period of time‘, writes Kate. Symptoms include irritability and irrational frustration. Sounds more than a little like the first week with my baby!! It‘s hard to remember those first few weeks with my beautiful bundle of joy, I‘m not sure if it‘s because I went through so much emotionally in such a short space of time that my brain simply could not comprehend it all, but what I do remember is that even a walk to the shops to get some bread made me a little giddy with excitement – I had escaped into the outside world! Could this have been the result of endorphins & serotonin running wild from a short brisk walk? I have no doubt that there is a definitive link between exercise and depression, but the last thing any new mum wants to be thinking about is exercise – we have enough on our plate already and often just walking up the stairs can be exhausting. But let‘s be sensible about this, we have to remember what WE need too. If we don‘t look after ourselves then we will be in no state to look after our babies either – and they need us! A small walk around the park, or in my case a trip to the shops, may be all we can manage but it can make a big and a lasting difference to our mental state. And the best part of it all is that (in my case) baby enjoyed it too, not just because it made me more cheerful but a little trip out in the sling or the pram was often just what baby needed to help him get to sleep. A win for the both of us.
Some postnatal exercise classes in Sheffield: Keep Mums Fit—bootcamp style at Millhouses Park. Fitness at 4+ months postnatal. Also postnatal exercise to music classes. www.keepmumsfit.com. Antenatal and postnatal pilates classes at The Stillpoint Practice, Netheredge. Ladies that Lunge...and baby comes too. Mummies and buggies exercise classes in Ecclesfield. Email.ladiesthatlunge@yahoo.com. Blooming exercise - postnatal aerobic exercise around Sheffield email. leigh.a.brown@hotmail.co.uk. New baby, new body bootcamp! Prime Mover Sheffield. City Centre classes. www.prime-mover.co.uk. Antenatal and postnatal yoga with Nicola Harpin. www.pregnantyogini.com For more practical information on post-natal exercise visit the NHS website at www.nhs.uk Further advice can also be found at www.babycentre.co.uk and www.supernanny.co.uk. 28
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Jenny, Richard and Sam Vernon with Amy’s Retreat This issue we hear from a local star, Jenny Vernon. Jenny tells us in her own words how the Sheffield charity Amy‘s Retreat helped her family through a difficult time while her son was having treatment for a rare form of cancer at the Children‘s Hospital. ―Our son Sam was diagnosed aged 3 with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma on 17 February 2010 and will finish his treatment in Spring 2012. His diagnosis turned our lives upside down but we knew we needed to keep strong for Sam and Sam's strength has kept us going throughout.
Jenny at the Bootcamp Marathon
About six months into Sam's treatment we were lucky enough to go on a holiday provided by Amy's Retreat. Amy's Retreat is a small charity based in Sheffield which helps families with cancer being treated at Sheffield Children's Hospital. The main way Amy's Retreat helps the families is by providing holidays to Center Parcs in Sherwood Forest for the whole family to spend precious time together away from hospital and the routines of treatment. This holiday made a massive difference to our family at such a difficult time and I decided I wanted to give something back to Amy's Retreat, which relies heavily on fundraising and donations. My friends and I had started going to Bootcamp sessions in the evenings at Hillsborough Park and I organised a Bootcamp marathon with Gabrielle from Amy's Retreat at Hillsborough Sports Arena on 3 September 2011. About 40 people took part in a gruelling 10 hour session and to date the event has raised over £5000 which has enabled Amy's Retreat to send five deserving families on a much needed break.‖
Sam at home To find out more about Amy's Retreat, contact Gabrielle Latham on 07891609119, email info@amysretreat.org.uk or visit www.amysretreat.org.uk. If you would like nominate your charity or a friend or relative to be our Chatterbox local star please email us at chatterbox.sheffield@gmail.com.
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TIME FOR YOU
Reusable Nappy Nightmare I had no idea what I was embarking on as I casually announced, ―I think we should give washable nappies a go, writes Helen. I will look into it.‖ Anyone who has done even the smallest amount of research into this subject may well run screaming from this article, or be found quivering and rocking in a corner with a smashed up lap top in front of them mumbling different brand names under their breath. I emerged a week later from the review websites feeling a little like I had just been on an intensive language course to an alternative universe, where it is perfectly acceptable to just make up brand new words as and when. There were no less than 55 different brands listed and reviewed on mumsnet, some of which have many various subspecies within the brand to choose from. Upon discovery of this I did the sensible thing and closed the computer and had a cup of tea. The next day at playgroup I mentioned my hesitancy and confusion over the sheer scale of the industry to a fellow mum. She named a brand that she had used with success on her three kids and it felt as though I had solved it. But that was only the beginning. Trying to find somewhere to purchase the nappies when you live in a small village in the peak district is not an easy task. I discovered a real nappy lady – a guru of the washable nappy world who makes homes visits with a van full of nappies and a mind full of information on drying times, absorbency and comfort. When she arrived I knew it was serious, my offering of a cup of tea was rejected as if such frivolity was far too time consuming. Her first question felt like a test ―Do you know anything AT ALL about re-usables?‖ I answered optimistically, naming the brand that my friend had mentioned naively expecting her to whip out a bag of that brand, take my money, wish me luck and leave me to my evening. In fact there was a sharp intake of breath, a shake of the head and a feeling as though I had just shat in her handbag. An hour later after me getting increasingly sweaty and anxious as I tried to keep up with the info on bamboo boosters, outers and micro-terry soakers, I took the 32 page guide and told her I would be in touch when I had revised. The problem is my hormones can‘t take it. I need to nest and prepare and until nappy gate is over this baby will not come out I am sure of it. I have been waking up from dreams about whether to go for an all in one. I am boring myself let alone my partner. I have reached the online checkout about 5 times hovering over the confirm button and just as I am about to part with the considerable initial outlay of over £100 the words from the reviews come into my mind… ―Not great on taller babies‖. What if my 5,2‖ frame pumps out a giant!! I immediately click cancel and get straight back onto mumsnet. A word of warning, do not be distracted by the cutesy names and designs. They may be called cheeky gorgeous bum a lums and have cherries and hearts on them but there is a darker side to the world of washables. I just hope I make it out of the other side, without first throwing myself, and my 32 page handout into landfill. Comedy for Mums in Sheffield. Helen also performs a comedy show for mums. 'Gas and Hot Air' is an hour long, daytime show about pregnancy, childbirth and early motherhood. For more information on venues and tickets contact Helen. helen@comedyformums.com or visit www.comedyformums.com
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Award Winning Baby Development Classes for Babies from Birth to 13 Months
Broomhill Methodist Church Monday 10:30am and 12:00 Contact Jenny: 07941386572
southwestsheffield@babysensory.co.uk
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Self-Help Information ARC Antenatal Results & Choices www.arc-ul.org
0207 631 0285
Birth preparation Classes www.nct.org.uk
0844 243 6852
Child Help Line –Sheffield
0800 279 7454
Counselling – support for depression, PND & loss counselling@inyourcommunity.org.uk
07847 623214
National Childline www.childline.org.uk
0800 1111
Cruse www.crusebereavementcare.org.uk
0114 249 3328
Children‘s Hospital www.childrens.nhs.uk
0114 271 7000
Cot Death Help Line www.sids.org.uk/sad
08088 026868
Homestart Family Support www.hssheffield.org.uk
0114 27 8377
Breastfeeding Support
0114 232 2203
Meningitis Support Group www.meningitis.org
0808 8003344
Miscarriage Association Self Help Group www.miscarriageassociation.org.uk
01924 200 799
NHS Direct www.nhs.direct.nhs.uk
0845 4647
Parent Life Line (helpline for parents) www.parentlifeline.org.uk
0114 272 6575
Sands (stillbirth & neonatal death)
0207 436 5881
Scoop (Sheffield Lone Parent) www.scoopaid.org.uk
275 7212 Mon-Fri,10am –2pm
Sheffield Autistic Society www.shauties.org.uk
0114 230 4839
Sheffield Down Syndrome www.sheffielddownsyndrome.co.uk
0114 273 4017
Sheffield Information Link
0114 275 6699 34
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