2
Hello
ter, who got married in the spring so is taking a well-deserved break. This issue I’m also saying goodbye as editor of Chatterbox. I’ve had a brilliant time meeting up with and working with all the team, and I would really recommend it to any of you Welcome to the Big Fat Daddy Issue [Mums and Dads!], who fancy trying somecelebrating all that is cool about Dads. Busy bath-times, rolling around in the garden, thing new while your kids are little. Thank you for all your kind words of support and encoursight-seeing, baking, long walks, bike rides in agement, and I want to wish Kate Hayward all the sunshine and splashing in the swimming the very best as the new editor!! pool, kids love time spent with Daddy, Grandads, and Grandpas all around Sheffield. If you like long walks with the kids read our new editor, Kate’s guide to baby carriers on page 8. Kate Hardy gives us the top 10 places for Daddy days out [of course ideal for the whole family too!]. We hope we can inspire Mums and Dads to get out and about this summer and try something different. Why not have a go at Lisa’s crocodile craft on page 32? PS. Don’t forget the Chatterbox team are runOur brilliant competition is with the fab new ning the Race for Life on Sunday the 15th Sheffield based baby clothing brand Poco of July, you can join us to run the race in Nido. They are offering the chance to win a support of all the families in our area battling pair of their beautiful pre-walker shoes in your cancer, or you can sponsor us at choice of colours, more details on page 4. www.justgiving.com/chatterboxsheffield, Don’t forget if you’re interested in offering a thank you. prize for our competition, or need to let us know about an upcoming event you’re organising, there are lots of ways to get in touch. What’s in this issue: Your can visit us at our website chatterbox5. What’s On magazine.blogspot.com where you can see 8. Guide to Baby Carriers more Daddy portraits, or you can visit our 12. Recipe Facebook page www.facebook.com/ 14. Top Ten Daddy Days Out chatterboxsheffield. We always love hearing 16. Too Modern a Man? from you. Also a quick reminder that if you 19. Playgroups respond to an advert in Chatterbox please let 26. Being Dad (and Mum) the company or organisation know you saw 30. Local Star the advert in Chatterbox, it really helps us and 32. Craft guarantees that we keep going. 34. Self Help Information Congratulations to our columnist, Helen Rut-
Noah with his Dad
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: Distribution Manager [the current manager is taking over as editor from the summer issue]. 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 Hardy or Kate Hayward at chatterbox.sheffield@gmail.com or chatterboxwhatson@googlemail.com
Chatterbox competition with Poconido. Win 1 of 10 pairs of pre-walker shoes. Poco Nido is an exciting little brand for little people, offering limited edition, British designed baby footwear and t-shirts. Part of their debut season features eye catching, baby stimulating, repeat illustration from Sheffield artist Geo Law, which gives the pre-walkers a totally different look to all other baby shoes currently for sale. The shoes & Ts are made from cotton and leather, safely hand printed with water-based inks. The pre-walkers are beautifully packaged in a non-traditional recycled card tube box, which also cleverly doubles as a postal tube, meaning less packing waste & more crafting opportunities. See them at www.poconido.com. Poco Nido have kindly offered Chatterbox readers the chance to win 1 of 10 pairs of pre walkers if you enter our competition. Simply answer the following question: Who did the owl go to sea with in the pea-green boat? Email your answer to chatterbox.sheffield@gmail.com, along with your name, contact telephone number and your choice of colour (pale pink, baby blue, red, navy) and size 0-6months, 6-12months. Good luck! 4
WHAT’S ON
Summer 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.
June 2nd—10th June
Follow the mini beasts family trail Longshaw Estate 10 30 -3 30pm Collect a family trail 50p and meet some wiggly creatures along the way !
3rd and 4th June
Abbeydale Miniature Railway Opposite 283 Abbeydale Road ,Sheffield S17 3l LB First trains run at 1pm last trains at 5pm
4th June
Go wild! Family walk at Hardwick Hall. A monthly seasonal fun family walk with activities along the way. Don’t forget your wellingtons ! Normal admission charges, booking not necessary. 10.30 -11.30 (Other dates 2nd July, 6th August, 3rd September and 1st October.)
6th June
Family Fun Day at Hardwick Hall. Fun activities and natural crafts in the stableyard to inspire your family to get outdoors and closer to nature. Suitable for toddlers to teenagers. 11- 4pm. All tickets £5. 5
WHAT’S ON 7th June and 30th August
Little Imps picnic at Longshaw. Fun for the under 5’s in the grounds of The Moorland Discovery Centre. Play sensory games and join in some summertime craft activities. 10.30 - 2pm. Child £3 Booking essential Tel 01433 670368.
17th and 18th June
Father’s Day at Chatsworth. In the farmyard barn Dads will be treated to a selection of newspapers to read, tea and coffee. Also materials will be available for the children to make a special Father’s Day card plus a fantastic playground to play in. Activities included with Garden / farmyard entry.
17th June
Fathers Day BBQ at ilam Park (National Trust ) all food locally sourced 12- 4.30pm. See National Trust website for details.
18th Sheffield Children’s Festival. The programme is currently being put together June—14th so please check the website for details nearer the time - wwwsheffieldchildrensJuly festival.org 17th June
Open Farm Sunday at Heeley City Farm, Richards Road S2 3DT. Tel 258 0482. 9- 5pm. Free of charge Meet all the rare breed animals, follow the nature trail and play in the under 8’s play area. There is also a farm cafe.
17th June
Open day at Our Cow Molly Farm, Hilltop Road, Dungworth, Sheffield S6. 116pm. Tractor rides, ride the off road train, visit the new born calves. Farm tours see where the cows are milked and where the milk is processed. The BBQ will be running all day.
23rd and 24th June
Teddy Bear’s Picnic at Elsecar Railway, Elsecar Heritage Centre Nr Barnsley Tel 01226 746746. Treasure hunt, train rides, hook a duck, bouncy castle. Children’s picnic boxes available.
24th June
Walk the extra mile! Sponsored walk in Graves Park. Choose either 1 or 3 mile route. Either obtain sponsorship or give a donation to Diabetes UK. An event for all ages! Tel 2751266.
July 1st July
Hillsborough Park Support Dogs Gala with agility displays and fun for all the family. 10.30 - 4.30pm.
2nd July
Go Wild! Fun Family Walk at Hardwick Hall [see June entries for details].
7th July
Traditional Carnival at Stannington Park. 12-4.30pm. Including craft stalls, brass band, and Punch & Judy. 6
WHAT’S ON 9th and 10th The Wizard of Oz presented by the June D Gill School of Dancing at the Crucible July Theatre. Enchanting musical spectacular for all the family. 7.30pm. Ticket booking office tel. 2496000. 21st July— 2nd Sept
Animal Olympics at The Butterfly House. Enjoy fun and educational themed crafts, activities and games every day during the school holidays.
26th July
Games throughout history at Sheffield Manor Lodge, 197 Manor Lane Sheffield, S2 1UL. Join in with traditional games, and for older children make a game to take home. £1.50 per child. Cafe, toilets and baby changing facilities on site.
26th July
Kitchen Garden Open Day at Longshaw Estate. Discover Longshaw’s kitchen garden and take part in some fun hands-on growing activities. 12-4 pm. £2. Booking not necessary.
27th July
Friday Family Fun at Sheffield Manor Lodge. Games and activities for the whole family. £1 per child.
August 1st August
National Play Day is a celebration of children’s rights to play and a campaign that highlights the importance of play in children’s lives. Details TBC see website for details: www.playday.org.uk.
2nd and Down By The Pond at The Longshaw Estate. Bring your own net if you have 23rd August one, enjoy pond dipping and bug hunting. 1.30-3.30 pm. £2 per child. 9th August
From Rushes to Rafts! Fun walk from the Moorlands Discovery Centre Turn rushes into rafts and sail them down the Burbage Brook . 1.30- 3.30pm. Child £3. Booking essential. Tel 01433 670368.
3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th and 31st August
Friday Family Fun at Sheffield Manor Lodge. Games and activities for the whole family £1 per child. Cafe toilets and baby changing facilities on site. 13.30 - 15.30.
12th, 26th and 27th August
Abbeydale Miniature Railway. Teddy Bear’s Picnic on the 12th 1-5pm
23rd August Summer Surprise at The General Cemetery off Ecclesall Road S11 8NT 14pm Arts and crafts for young children and their families 28th August Meet Big Lad ! Sheffield’s Manor Lodge’s working horse and learn how to care for him. Booking essential £1.50 per child 1.30- 3.30 Tel 2762828. 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
GET ACTIVE
Practical Guide to Baby Carriers Baby wearing is fantastic for dads, writes Kate. It gives a real opportunity to bond with baby as you become so close and so attuned to each other. The other major plus is that it gives dad a ‘use’. My husband felt quite lost in the early days (as I’m sure most dads do) because it was difficult for him to understand how to help. But as we discovered that baby loved being wrapped up all cosy in the sling, this became one of the best ways that the husband could help both me and Edun, our son. Most carriers state that children can be carried up to 4 years old (check instructions for individual carriers) and although this may sound back-breaking it is surprisingly comfortable! It is much easier than carrying a child in your arms (when they refuse to sit in the pushchair!!) because the carrier takes the weight and spreads it across your body. There are lots of myths out there when it comes to baby-wearing. As with everything (including prams!) there are risks, but we often get so carried away looking at risks, we forget to compare the benefits – and there is a list of benefits that is just too long for me to list here so here are just a few; Benefits for Baby
Benefits for Parent
Baby is close to the parent This is great for regulating temperature Baby can be comforted by seeing, hearing, touch & smell of parent Babies are carried upright This means that it is a form of ‘tummy time’ as baby can get used to controlling their neck It is said to help colic as being upright can help to bring up air It helps to prevent flat head syndrome (medical name Plagiocephaly)
Free hands! Go on... imagine it... all the things you could do! It’s good for your back/muscles Weight is evenly distributed over the torso No straining of lifting and putting down all the time It is a fantastic way to bond with your baby. No need to push around an extra 15kgs of weight in the form of a pram For older children no need to take the pram out just in case they get tired, simply pack a sling/carrier instead
Types of Baby Carriers Pouches & Ring Slings – these slings are worn over one shoulder, the ring sling is adjustable so great if sharing between parents. These slings allow for hip carrying too. Wraps – a long strip of fabric that is tied in place. It takes a bit of practise to master the various tying techniques, but don’t be put off by this as there are some great YouTube videos out there which make it nice and clear. Mei Tais (pronounced May Tie) – A piece of fabric which is tied in place by top and bottom straps. Great for wearing baby on the front or the back. Also great for older babies. Continued on next page 8
GET ACTIVE Soft Structured Carriers – These offer a bit more support and there are lots of different styles out there. They normally have a variety of buckles to get used to but can offer more support for the carrier. Backpack Carriers – These are worn just like a backpack. Great for babies who can sit up on their own they are designed for walks/off-terrain and normally have a backpack space for you to take along waterproofs/lunch etc. So, you’ve decided to give baby-wearing a go, great! Here are some of the things you should be aware of; Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) An acquired deformation of the hip joint that can lead to the hip becoming dislocated. This is referred to in babies/toddlers as the condition can be acquired by putting stress on the hip joint. For example by pushing the knees together and/or legs downwards.
This is easy to overcome & some say that babies are more protected from this when carried. Simply make sure that babies legs stay nice and high so that the leg is at least 90 degrees to the torso (as if they were in a sitting down position). Known as the ‘froggy’ position!
Hollow Back – medical name Lordosis In a nutshell this is a curvature of the spine where the spine curves inwards (as if you were sticking your bottom out & shoulders back). A major factor is also that the pelvis tilts forwards/downwards.
This can happen when baby is in the front facing out position (see below). So to avoid this simply keep baby facing into you.
Positional Asphyxia Front Facing Outwards (FFO) Position Babies are fascinated by the outside world but they are also easily overstimulated so having them facing outwards can be abit much for them. Also, when facing outwards their back is not as well supported and they can often end up sitting on their genitals rather than on their butt.
This is a simple one – have baby facing in to you. Either tummy to tummy if wearing baby on the front, or their tummy on your back if wearing them on the back. They will still get a great view of the outside world, but they can take it or leave it whenever they want to.
Mass Produced Carriers Usually found on the high street these are very similar to soft structured carriers, but not as well made. The seats are normally smaller meaning that babies back/legs are not supported potentially leading to DDH. Sadly some of the most well known carriers come under this category.
Don’t be tempted to buy from the high street unless you have done your research. Check with websites such as www.slingguide.co.uk to find out which soft structure carriers are good for baby.
Continued on next page 9
GET ACTIVE And remember the TICKS rule for safe babywearing [google for details]; Don’t think for one minute that you are either a baby-wearer or not! I still use my pram regularly and they most definitely have their place, but so does baby-wearing. I have not met a single person who has tried baby-wearing who does not rave about how fantastic it is, however I regularly hear grumbles about how annoying it is using a pram – particularly on bin day! – so why not give yourself an alternative for those times when you need a free pair of hands to hang out the washing, do the shopping or when you want to go for a walk somewhere without tarmac! Why not swap that heavy, awkward car seat that you lug around everywhere for a lightweight, comfortable baby carrier that gives you free hands and a wonderful ‘hug’ from your baby. Essential Info; www.slingguide.co.uk – A great website with lots of impartial information on babywearing. Sheffield Sling Library – A great resource for anyone wanting to give baby-wearing a go. A vast variety of slings/carriers can be hired for 4 weeks for just £5. Find them on facebook under Sheffield Sling Library or at www.slinglibrary.org Sheffield Baby Wearers – A friendly group who regularly meet and swap advise on baby-wearing. Find them on Facebook under Sheffield Babywearers – it is a closed group so that baby photos can be shared privately, but don’t be put off by this simply click the ‘join’ button. If you decided to give baby-wearing a go we would love to hear from you! Find us on Facebook and tell us all about it www.facebook.com/chatterboxsheffield.
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RECIPE
Delicious Bread Recipe Cooking is a great activity for dads and children to enjoy together, writes Angela. Use a simple bread recipe to make a loaf, pizza bases, animal shapes and rolls with different toppings. Give it a go and get creative. Easy Bread Recipe 500g Strong white bread flour or wholemeal flour 1 tsp Salt 1 tsp Sugar 1 tsp Fast Acting Dried Yeast 300ml Warm water 1 tbsp Vegetable oil Method 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
Keira and Ellie helping Daddy
Combine the flour, salt, sugar and yeast Mix in the water and bring to a dough Add the oil and knead (stretch the dough) for 5 minutes, dust with flour if sticky Cover and leave to rise in a warm place for 45 minutes Shape and place the dough on a baking sheet Leave to rise again for 15 minutes whilst putting a baking tray of water in the oven and heat to 200c/400f/Gas 6 Bake in oven for 25 minutes if rolls or 40 minutes if large loaf
Add herbs, sesame/ poppy seeds, grated cheese, oats, flour, semolina, olives, sundried tomatoes, dried fruit, or chocolate chips to the dough or as a topping.
Top Tips
When you are kneading stretch the dough away from you, fold it back on itself, turn it round and repeat this action.
The finished bread, perfect for a picnic on a Daddy day out!
Plait, twist or roll to create, hedgehogs, turtles, pigs, teddy bears or other fun animals. 12
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OUT AND ABOUT
Top Ten Big Daddy Days Out When I first thought about writing this article I remembered the days out that I enjoyed with my Dad, writes Kate Hardy. Going on walks with a picnic in the summer and going to football matches in the winter no wonder I grew up a tomboy! Here are a few suggestions for days out with Dad [of course they’ll work just as well with Mums too!]. Trains are always a hit with little ones, you could take a short ride out to Grindleford from Dore or Sheffield Station, or take a trip to see some more unusual trains: The Miniature Railway in The Pavillion Gardens Buxton, St John’s Road, Buxton, SK17 6BE (Tel 01298 23114). Surrounded by a lovely park with a great café and a miniature train centrally located in the gardens. The trains run from 11.30 -5pm at weekends and every day in the school holidays. Under 3’s travel free of charge & other passengers enjoy two circuits of the track for £1. Great value and worth the drive to Buxton. wwwpavilliongardens.co.uk . National Railway Museum York Trains on a bigger scale ! The Museum is located beside York Railway station on Leeman Road ,YO26 4XJ Entry is free of charge, although it you drive you will have a to pay £9 to park. There are always lots of family activities to enjoy including short rides on a steam train. There is an outdoor play area suitable for pre-school children and plenty of souvenirs in the gift shop. www.nrm.org.uk. If you’ve had your fill of trains what about a day at the farm? There are lots of great community farms in our area where the kids can explore the animals and you can explore the great coffee, home-made cakes and farm shop.
Noah at the Railway Museum, York
Whirlow Farm Trust (www.whirlowfarm.co.uk) is one of the best with lots of events throughout the year, a petting area and educational rooms for younger children. Farm tours every weekend from 10.00 - 2pm These are free of charge but donations to the trust are welcome .The tours are a great introduction to the farm and the animals .The cafe is open at weekends & bank holidays 9.30 -3 pm Chatsworth Farmyard (www.Chatsworth.org/farmyard) is always a favourite too. Located in Derbyshire a short walk from the village of Baslow. The farmyard has daily animal handling sessions and an adventure playground with sandpits and diggers. Admission £5 adults & £5 Children Family ticket £18 2 adults and 2 children. Annual tickets are available. 14
OUT AND ABOUT If science and history are more your thing explore some of the local museums with the kids. Take a packed lunch and turn a day at the museum into an adventure travelling through different worlds and times. Magna Science Adventure Centre, Sheffield Road ,Rotherham S60 1DX Tel 017904 720 602. Open 7 days a week from 10 - 4pm. Take a coat, a towel, a bucket and spade, and a spare set of clothing, Magna can be a chilly and often a wet experience, with lots of different areas to enjoy including a brilliant outside water splash park and play park with large sand pit, the museum itself is good for older children but can be a bit scary for younger children [and Mums!]. The outdoor water play area is open during the summer from the end of March. Eureka, Halifax (www.eureka.org.uk) may be an hours drive away but is an excellent museum designed specifically for young children. Themed areas teach them about the world around them through fun, exciting, interactive activities. One particular favourite is the car garage where they can pretend to fill up a small car with petrol. It is a little pricey at £9.95 for adults and kids over 3 but is definitely a good day out. The Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester [www.mosi.org.uk], is a vast museum that is free to get in, and with so much to explore, it can be a pretty tiring day out. There are steam train rides, fun 4D cinema experiences, story-telling and lots of interactive exhibits. Of course Sheffield has lots of great museums to visit too (www.museumssheffield.org.uk). The museums run regular activities for children of all ages. This combined with a picnic in either the Winter Gardens or Peace Gardens can be a lovely day out. Why not leave the car at home? Most young children enjoy the bus journey into town! You’ve visited the trains, been on a bus, what about planes? The thrill of seeing real planes taking off for small children is huge—a different day out is a visit to the Manchester Aiport Runway Visitor Park [Google for details]. Located at the end of the runway it is a prime location to watch the aeroplanes taking off and landing [watch out for the giant airbuses coming in!), and for Dad, you can go inside Concorde which is inside a huge hanger at the park. There are other planes to look inside and small playground for the kids too. The Yorkshire Air Museum (www.yorkshireairmuseum.org) is just outside York and is the largest independent air museum in Britain with lots of WWII aircraft to explore. Adults are £8 and children under 5 are free.
The Yorkshire Air Museum
For an even bigger adventure, the National Space Centre near Leicester (www.spacecentre.co.uk) has a large rocket and a replica of the Columbus module that went into space. Lots of interactive activities for younger and older children with key stage workshops make this an educational as well as exciting day out, adult tickets are £13, children under 5 are free and if you visit during term time there are offers to extend your ticket for an annual pass for free. 15
OUR FAMILY
Too Modern a Man... Be honest, how many of you would really like to rely on your man for permanent childcare, writes Jodie? After work, excellent; all hands on deck in the bedtime hour is always useful. Weekends, great, early mornings even better, but all the time? Well there are more and more men who do it, charged with the full-time care of their children. So how do they feel about being stay-at-home dads? Well, the dads I’ve spoken to (and it wasn’t easy finding them. In fact just one at playgroup, and another who’s a part-time house-husband) say they feel no different to the mums who stay at home, despite being in the minority… and why should they? We all have bad days and good ones. Changing a nappy is often a messy affair but it’s hardly rocket science. Taking the kids to the park takes some effort, but it’d be insulting to men to think they wouldn’t be able to cope (remind them to take the changing bag though). Dads at music group are perfectly capable (though not always willing!) of following the actions to The Wheels on the Bus. But do we feel sorry for them, assuming they feel self-conscious? And are they left out of the chitchat at coffee time? I actually find the opposite. My husband can’t help himself but to chip in at any given moment and offer his advice on his way of doing things. He may not be able to breastfeed, but give him any other subject around childcare and he’ll happily suggest a good (meaning ‘better’) way of doing it. For instance, my dad’s generation knew their role. After a hard day at work dad would happily join in the rough and tumble with my sister and I at home, but as for the day-today household routine, mum did most of it. And even she would admit she wasn’t great at the old cooking lark. But things are different now. My husband prides himself on being a whiz in the kitchen. After avidly watching three episodes of Masterchef he now fancies himself as a domestic God, so much so that he and his fellow dad mates hold a dinner party (excluding the wives) every month, at which they try to outdo each other with their culinary creations. I can cope with being relegated to sous-chef, but I am starting to resent him taking charge of the Internet shop. Especially when he forgets the biscuits.
Thomas and Joseph with Dad, Andy
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OUR FAMILY
Fun Quiz
So here’s a quick test for you, to see if you have a good old-fashioned man about the house, or rather ‘too modern a man’ at home…
Q1: You think aloud about how long you should keep your newborn sleeping in your room for. Does your partner reply: a) I didn’t even know they were sleeping in our room, I can’t hear anything once my earplugs are in. Or b) A recent article I read in NCT Times suggests six months is the absolute minimum. Q2: You breastfed your first two children: what does your partner think about you feeding your third? a) Do whatever you want, as long as your boobs don’t shrink. Or b) I’ve read that the most benefit is gained within the first few weeks of breast feeding, but I believe evidence exists for advantages to the baby up to one year. Q3: Your partner comes home from a typically hard day at work. You are sweating over a risotto whilst the kids run riot. Does he: a) Go to the fridge, open a beer and sit down to watch telly. Or b) Taste the risotto, acknowledge that the lack of salt may be good for the children, but suggests it’d taste much better with a touch more seasoning. Q4: When your partner comes home you are remonstrating with your three yearold for pushing his sibling into a wall. Does he: a) Laugh, suggesting it will toughen ‘em up. Or b) Criticise your bulldozer approach to discipline, and suggest non-pejorative discussions are the way forward. Q5: It’s Saturday morning, and rather than take the kids to music and ballet you really need to squeeze in a hair appointment. You ask your partner if he’d take them. Does he: a) Flatly refuse, saying he’s already arranged to watch the football. b) Embrace the idea wholeheartedly and tell you to take your time, and would you also like him to take them to baby gymnastics? If your answers are mostly ‘a’, you truly have an archaic man about the house. If your answers are mainly ‘b’, then your man may just be a little too modern. Only you know which works best in your household!
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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 07967 332158.
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
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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. 1 st 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. 1011.30am 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.Also Wed. 10-11.30am within the Toddler group.
St Luke’s Toddlers
Blackbrook Rd, Lodge Moor. Wed. 10-11.30am. Contact Carolyn on 230 1544 and Fri. 10-11.30am Contact Sue on 2302550.
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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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 July. Remember to include your phone number and/or email address. For Sale Graco Mirage pram with car seat(black colour) in good condition, £30 Mamas and Papas walker with music and activity table, excellent condition, £10 6 drawer plastic wide storage chest-white, used for keeping baby toys and books, excellent condition £5 White plastic baby bath £2 Wooden shape sorter truck toy from ELC-£4 Boots red fleece footmuff, good condition £5 Contact Flora on 07768187175 or email 121.flora@gmail.com Grobags x 2, size 6-18 months £3.50 each. Bike seat, as new £15. M&P pine changing
station, as new £12. 2 x John Lewis pine stairgates £5 each. Beige John Lewis Cosytoes £3.50. ELC Rosebud Cottage with furniture and people £5. ELC baby walker £2.50. Balance bike, never used £15. Contact Angela on 07973 213769. Good condition Baby Jogger City Mini Twin 2011 pushchair for sale in red and black. Comes with a rain cover, under pram storage, and two hardly used footmuffs to match the pram, in excellent condition. Has reclinable seats suitable from birth and padded seats. Folds very easily! £250 all in. Contact Jodie on 07866762010.
Chatterbox On-line There are lots of ways to keep up to date with Chatterbox information on-line. 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 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 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 Alternatively if you prefer to guarantee your own copy every month you can always subscribe to the magazine for a small fee [to cover postage costs] see page 3 for the form and information.
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25
TIME FOR YOU
Being Dad [And Mum] Karen and Prinz Nagalingham MUM: Before I had my first son I imagined sitting in a field of daisies, with children sat around me sharing a picnic. Everyone is smiling. The kids are giggling and happily playing on the rug. Now that I am an ‘experienced’ mother of two I realise it can be like that, but more often than not it isn’t! Someone throws a tantrum (sometimes me!), a fight breaks out and at least one of the boys (or me!) cries. I find myself clockwatching as the afternoon progresses, longing for 6pm when Daddy arrives home and the children turn into giggling excitable tots, well for a few minutes anyway. Many times I have asked myself why? What is it about Daddy? DAD: A lot of the above is news to me, naturally because I don’t get to observe the highs and lows of the day. It’s a lovely feeling to see the welcoming grins of your children when you get home from work, but I think the key difference is children rarely get a chance to miss their mothers. Like so many things in life it’s the reliable ever-present factors that we all too quickly take for granted. I think Dads often get the chance to take the glory of being more ‘fun’. The truth is our children love their parents equally, they just don’t have the opportunity to appreciate Mum and that’s a Catch 22 that will last a very long time. Kids are a strange unpredictable species though. Before our first was born I declared I would play bad cop, that there was plenty of time in future years for my children to become my friends and a sense of discipline had to be instilled early. 3 and half years down the line I still strive to maintain that stance but bizarrely (to me anyway), the stricter I am with my children the more they seem to like me! I think the theory behind this is that kids like structure – or so I’m told. However, who wants to raise an army of robots? A mother has natural instincts and for me these really help shape a child’s personality, their ability to show compassion, to recognise emotions, to laugh, to explore, to express themselves. I’d like to think so far we’re getting it right. It’s such a terrible cliché but it really is a team effort. At times we discuss ‘tactics’ and have agreed we will never undermine each other in front of the children – fearful of their ability to spot and exploit any weakness!
My family by Charlotte age 6
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TIME FOR YOU I feel sorry for my better half sometimes, mainly because I know it took me 31 years to start properly appreciating my own mother. Why? You guessed it, I had kids! Since then I have thanked my own Mum so many times as childhood memories long locked away of playing hide and seek, imaginary games and days out come flooding back. Raising children has so far been the biggest challenge of my life, and I only do 10% of the raising! I often have that ‘Friday Feeling’ on a Sunday night knowing a day at work is often less challenging than a day at home! I often say to my partner I don’t know how you do it – I wonder sometimes if she knows what I mean by that, and this might be the key difference between Mums and Dads: It’s so easy to plonk the kids in front of the TV all day, to rely on others, to take them for a drive just so they sleep at the same time so you can listen to the football commentary on the radio (GUILTY AS CHARGED!) but all the Mums I know make so much effort with their children, despite this often seeming a literally thankless task. Mums just keep going, they won’t be stopped, they may cry now and again, have the odd rant and rave but as begrudgingly hard as it is to admit, there’s a reason why there’s the saying ‘Mum Knows Best’! MUM: I love my children dearly and I am glad I live in such a dynamic household. My kids may worship their dad, but it is always me that they turn to when they want some love, a cuddle, or they are feeling poorly. So as much as I dislike the stress and chaos of our household at times and wish I could have the calm children that somehow my husband procures. I realise we both have different roles in raising our children and between us we make a good team. So three cheers for Daddy, for without him the kids would really rule the roost!
My Dad by Martha age 4
Best Blogs
For more Daddy perspectives check out some of our favourite Dad blogs:
www.shoutydad.com mydentislovesme.blogspot.com www.daddacool.co.uk singleparentdad.blogspot.com goodbyepertbreasts.com
If you have any favourite blog links don’t forget to send us a message via our Facebook page, and you can see more of our reader’s brilliant Daddy portraits on our website: chatterboxmagazine.blogspot.com. If you’re a Dad who would like to contribute to Chatterbox drop us a line—we’d love to hear from you. 27
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 Hardy, Kate Hayward, Lisa, Helen, Karen
Distributors
Kate, Brenda, Kate H, Sally, Vicky, Angela, Lorna, Sophie, Hilary, Kate C, Amela
Chatterbox.finance@gmail.com
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. 28
Chatterbox advertising rates and info Rates per edition will be increasing from the autumn issue to the following: 1/4 page—£30 1/2 page—£50 Full page—£120 Inside cover and back cover—£150 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! 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.
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Gina Glossop of Endcliffe Playgroup At Chatterbox we recognise how important playgroups are in all their different forms for our kids as they grow in confidence and independence. Our playgroup listings have been a vital source of information for new Mums and Dads in our area for the last 25 years. It’s a hard job to choose one group out of our area, but Gina’s team got in touch with us to say what an incredible job she has done for the playgroup at Endcliffe Methodist Church over the many years she has been working there, so we thought we’d give her our star this issue for all her hard work.
Gina with some of the children at playgroup
Gina has been working with children for 18 years, and she has run the playgroup for the last 8 years. She says that the children at Endcliffe playgroup put sunshine into her day. "I feel very privileged to have been part of their little lives, if only for a short time, watching them grow in confidence as they experience new challenges and make new friends. If I could bottle their laughter I'd make a fortune!" The main difference with Endcliffe Playgroup and other similar groups listed on page 19 from other types of childcare is that parents can leave their child from 2 years old, even just for one session a week (2.5 hours) if that suits. This is perfect for parents who would simply like a couple of hours to themselves, while their child is having a little taste of independence. The sessions are themed and children always have a chance to do a sticking craft, a painting, a baking activity, and to play with a different role play each week, a different sensory area, and the other toys and games are rotated too. There is also outside play (depending on the weather) with cars, stepping stones, hula hoops, balls etc. A snack is included (often involving the results of the baking activity) and each session finishes with quieter play (puzzles and games) and a singing or story time session. Endcliffe Playgroup meet on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays in term time 911.30am. The cost is £7.25 per session, payable termly in advance. They look after children from age 2 to school age and are OFSTED approved, and have free places for children from 3 years old (FEL). For more information or to arrange a free session email: endcliffeplaygroup@talktalk.net, or call Nicola on 0114 2669578. 30
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CRAFT TIME
Fun Crocodile Craft This is a fun crocodile craft, but you could use this template to make other crafts, writes Lisa. I think a car, tractor or train would work really well. If making a vehicle, the crocodile’s feet would become the wheels, and using the pipe cleaners should even mean that they will move round. You will need: Pipe cleaners Paintbrush Paint Strong card, cut into the shape of a crocodile, or car, train or tractor. Eyes (or draw them on!) Egg box: cut out the middle part where the eggs sit, you will need four sections.
Step one: This is the only slight tricky bit for dad to do, but I think it’s worth it to make the crocodiles feet move or car wheels turn. Make a hole in the centre of two of the egg box shapes you have cut out, and a hole in the crocodile’s body, where the feet should go. Thread the pipe cleaner through the holes, loop the pipe cleaners round in the centre of the egg boxes, front and back, to hold them in place. Repeat for the second foot.
Step two: Paint and decorate your crocodile, I had some left over pointy bits from my egg box, which I used to decorate the crocodiles back.
Martha with her finished crocodile ready to play 32
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
Eating Disorder Support Group open group helping those suffering with eating disorders every Wed 10-11am at Victoria Methodist Church. Contact Rachel for information.
0114 2364004
Sheffield Information Link
0114 275 6699 34
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