M a rc h / A p r
il 2019
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28/02/2018
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www.kidscenemagazine.co.uk
Big s t n e Mom
ISSUE 40
rs Cricket With All Stad All Stars Gyda crice
Play at your local All Stars Cricket centre
Starting from May 2019 Register at allstarscricket.co.uk Read More About The Bank Holiday Family Raceday
at Ffos Las Racecourse on Easter Sunday, 21st April inside! (There’s FREE Family Entertainment and Horse Racing!)
Happy babies & children in a safe, stimulated environment, where they can develop & reach their full potential
Whole School Open Morning
Friday 8th March
Book your place today to find out more about our high achieving school or arrange a personal tour at a time to suit you 60.9% A* & A at A-Level in 2018, which places us in the Top 30 of all co-ed independent schools It’s never too early to begin your journey & foundations are laid in our Preparatory Schools many years in advance Ages 3 to 18 Competitive fees
Credit: The Sunday Times
01554 820325
admissions@stmikes.co.uk
www.stmikes.co.uk
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March/April
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JUST JUM P ! EASTER CO O K IE POPS WHAT'S ON M UM TO M UM P R E N E U R E XAM STR ESS BOOK REVIEWS Call | 07388 054097 sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk www.kidscenemagazine.co.uk
20,000 copies of Kidscene Magazine are delivered directly into primary schools from SA1 to SA15 areas bi-monthly. NEXT EDITION | May/June 2019 COPY DEADLINE | April 17th 2019
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All Stars Cricket Returns for 2019! The ECB's programme to inspire the next generation of cricketers will run in over 2,000 clubs across England and Wales this summer. All Stars Cricket is a fantastic initiative from the England and Wales Cricket Board that began in 2017 and is aimed at providing children aged five to eight with a great first experience in cricket. 2018 was a strong year for All Stars in South West Wales with over 1,000 children taking part across 30 clubs and we are looking to build on that again this summer By registering for All Stars Cricket, your child will be guaranteed eight weeks of jam-packed fun, activity and skills development. The programme is suitable for all children new to cricket and sport as the sessions are designed to teach the basic skills of the game. For an hour a week over an eightweek period, etour fully trained and vetted activators Crickgame-based tars S ll deliverSta activities that teach basic rs With A will ll A d ce ri Gyda ch cricket skills such as:
Batting – hitting a moving ball Throwing – underarm and overarm Catching – small and large balls Bowling – overarm Running – lots of movement Teamwork – fun games with friends Communication – the basics of cricket Spirit of Cricket – how to respect others
Every child that registers for the All Stars Cricket Programme will receive a bonus participant pack including, a backpack, cricket bat, cricket ball, a personalised shirt with name, cap and activity book. Every child that returns to the All Stars Cricket from 2018 will receive the new kit to progress their development as an All Star, it includes: a new backpack, cricket bat and ball, a new star design personalised shirt, stumps and an activity book. All Stars Cricket is also fantastic for parents. For an hour a week all mums and dads are invited to get involved and play cricket with their children. We know this is a great way to spend time with your child and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Easter down
Pick your own adventureon Folly Farm We’ve always been farmers, but now we’re much more than a farm.
Ranked a five-star day out and recipients of a Certificate of Come and Excellence on TripAdvisor, plus a 2019 Visit Wales Gold Award, our awardwinning zoo is home to giraffes, flamingos, penguins, African lions, lemurs, meerkats, rhinos, the thetapirs, bongos, squirrel Fun at monkeys, bats, sloths and ir ence red pandas…plus many, many more. Alongside the zoo sits the Jolly Barn with all your favourite farmyard friends, including miniature pigs, ponies, Downloa giant rabbits, sheep, goats, chickens and d our mdonkeys, ap app ferrets, plus the ever-popular ‘Cwtch Corner’ and the opportunity to milk a goat! The Jolly Barn is also the gateway to the rare breed paddocks, the piggery and land train tractor ride.
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The fun continues in the magical indoor vintage % fairground containing 16 lovingly restored fairground favourites like the Golden Gallopers, Dodgems, Caterpillar, Chair-o-planes and the Twist plus a whole host of indoor and outdoor adventure play areas,
Santander Cycles Swansea – A Great Way to Explore Swansea and the Bay Launched as Ju y San ande Cyc es Swansea s a se se v ce b ke h e scheme o eve yone o use The scheme was b ough o he c y when Swansea Un ve s y won he San ande Cyc es Un ve s y Cha enge wh ch p ov ded an n a fi y abu ous San ande Cyc es now conven en y oca ed a five dock ng s a ons ac oss he sweep o Swansea Bay
5 Conven ent Hubs Located Along Swansea Bay Swansea Un vers ty s S ng eton Park Campus The C v c Centre The Nat ona Water ront Museum Fab an Way Park and R de Swansea Un vers ty s Bay Campus A x h hub wh ch w nk Mumb e o he ou e be aunched oon
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that provides fitness benefits superior to jogging, cycling, and just about anything else you can think of…and far beyond ordinary spring-based rebounders.
Come & Try Out Wales' First Ever Group Rebound Class using the Unique Bellicon® Rebounder: No Springs Attached! Fed up with treadmills and spinning? Then it is time to try Wales' newest rebounding classes using the unique and premier bellicon® rebounder. Unlike biking and running, bouncing engages every muscle in the body, providing a total strength workout while burning more calories per minute than either activity. It also improves weight loss 3 times quicker than floor based workouts due to opposing gravity and added g-force. Bouncing is easy on joints as impacts are absorbed by dozens of bungees on the bellicon® rebounder, which is what makes this particular rebounder extra special! The bellicon revolutionized mini-trampoline design by creating a bungee-based device
Easter Egg Cookie Pops If your kids are fussy eaters then lollipop sticks can be magical things. Kids won’t eat broccoli?pop a stick in it and… tree-pop! Won’t eat their meat? pop a stick in and…Kebab! Granted my kids never really have a problem eating cookies but the addition of sticks and a heavy coating of chocolate make these cookies extra fun! They are also a brilliant bank holiday activity to use up leftover Easter Egg chocolate. To get the egg shape you can invest in an egg shape cookie cutter or draw an egg shape about 10cm tall by 7cm wide on baking paper and use this as a template for your cookie pops. You will need 2 baking sheets, well greased or lined with baking paper. If you enjoyed this and fancy trying a few more kid-friendly recipes head over to our website baking-with-kids.com or find us on Instagram @baking_with_kids.
Ingredients:
* 300g plain flour * 150g caster sugar * 200g butter * 1 egg * Tsp vanilla essence * Wooden lolly sticks (available at Poundland)
* 400g chocolate (we used a mixture of milk and white chocolate)
* Icing pens/ sprinkles
Once you try a bellicon® rebounder you will not look back, exercising will no longer feel like hard work and instead of avoiding your workouts, you’ll be looking forward to them. In fact it will be the most fun you’ll ever have getting in shape, losing weight, improving your health, increasing your stamina, and boosting your immune system. It exercises every one of the 638 muscles in your body while being low-impact, low-stress, and revitalising to your entire system. Whether you want to sweat, tone, balance or strengthen, you'll get it with JUST JUMP. Follow JUST JUMP on Facebook for up to date information on classes, venues & dates
STARTING MARCH 2019 Method:
Preheat oven to 180° C or Gas mark 4 In your biggest, kid friendly bowl, mix the butter and sugar together until combined, then stir in the egg and vanilla. Pour in the flour and mix until you have a firm dough. Roll out to 2cm thickness and cut egg shapes with a cutter or template (above). Arrange on the baking sheets and gently press in the lollipop sticks ensuring the sticks take up about half the length of the cookies. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cookies are golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before decorating. Melt the chocolate in a large microwave safe bowl using short bursts of 30 seconds and stirring well in between. Cover the cookie pops in chocolate and decorate with the sprinkles and icing pen squiggles.
Competitions
20,000 copies of Kidscene Magazine are delivered directly into primary schools from SA1 to SA15 areas bi-monthly. NEXT EDITION | May/June 2019 COPY DEADLINE | April 17th 2019
We have 3 FAMILY TICKETS to give away for the opening night of MADAGASCAR THE MUSICAL AT SWANSEA GRAND THEATRE on 21st May.
Win a FAMILY TICKET to see JURASSIC DINOSAURS IN THE PARK Margam Park, April 22nd.
WIN A FOLLY FARM FAMILY ANNUAL PASS (for 4) Simply answer the question below... Folly Farm has recently opened up it’s brand new, table service, themed restaurant…but what’s it called? Is it: A – The Happy Farmer B – The Hungry Farmer C – The Hesitant Farmer
Easter
March
9th -31st - March Weekends at the WWT Wetlands, Llanelli. Den Building (all day), Minibeast Hunt (11am - 12pm), Family Bird Watching (1pm – 1.45pm), Red-Crowned Crane Talk (2pm – 2.30pm), Craft Workshop (3pm) 15th - Family Bat Walk at the WWT Wetlands, Llanelli. Join us for an exciting evening bat walk after sunset, starting at 6.30pm. We will take bat detectors on a walk through the Millennium Wetlands and the grounds to look and listen for the different species of bats that call our site home. You might even see some other crepuscular creatures on our expedition! £6.50pp. Booking essential. 19th - Art Babas at the Glyn Vivian Art Gallery. A relaxed sensory craft session for preschool children and their grown-ups. Booking essential. Free entry. 10.30-11.30am. 23rd - PB Markets. Baby Nearly New Sale. 11-12.30pm in St Nicolas on the Hill & St Jude Church Hall, Townhill. Free entry. 30th- Making soap with mum Mother’s Day special at the Waterfront Museum. Find out about the history and process of making soap and try your hand at producing your own luxury bar including scented herbs to give mum a treat! (Mums go free). Booking essential. 11am, 12.30pm & 2pm. £3.50pp.
31st - Mums go Free at the WWT Wetlands, Llanelli. Treat your special ladies this Mother's Day with free entry for Mum, Mam or Mamgu! Enjoy some much needed quality time in the beautiful outdoors, walking in the wild wetlands and getting close to nature, before indulging in something tasty from the Kingfisher Kitchen
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April
1st - Easter Race Day at Ffos Las Racecourse. 7 exciting races including the West Wales National and lots of free children's activities. Why not bring your own picnic! Gates open at 12.20pm with the first race at 2.30pm.
5th - Little Mice Club at the Waterfront Museum. Drop in with your little ones to play make and sing and meet Morris the museum mouse! 10.30-12pm. 5th- Glynn Vivian at Night. Experience the gallery after hours. As well as access to all our gallery spaces, enjoy a range of art and craft workshops, films, poetry, live music and performance with food & drink. Free entry, drop in and join us at any time and everyone welcome! 5-8pm.
win a tasty prize. Learn all about the wetland wildlife we help look after and see if you can beat your family & friends to find all the yellow ducks! 13th - Dino Day at the Waterfront Museum. 12-4pm. Free event. Featuring The U.K.’s largest walkabout dinosaur ‘Little Al’ the amazing Allosaurus, Dinky Dino crafts, Dinisaur Movie - The Good Dinosaur and more!
16th - Here in this Spring’ Stationary and Cards Family Workshop at the Dylan Thomas Centre. Activities include spring themed creative writing activities, make a mini comic, puppets, games & a reading corner. 1-4pm. 16th - Dinosaurs In The Park at
7th - NCT Nearly New Sale in the LC2 Swansea. 10.30-1pm. 13th-27th - Easter at Gwili Railway. Enjoy traditional Easter weekend fun at the steam railway all included in your special event ticket price. Take a trip back in time on the steam railway and join in the Easter trail.
13th- ‘Here in this Spring’ Self Led Activities at the Dylan Thomas Centre. Activities include spring themed creative writing activities, make a mini comic, puppets, games & a reading corner. 10-4pm. 13th - Clay Making Workshops with local artist David Marchand at Oystermouth Castle. From mythical beings woodland creatures to funky fish, come along and enjoy this creative clay workshop. Workshops will run throughout the day 11.15am, 12.15am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm & 3.30pm
16th, 18th - 21st, 23rd - 28thSelf-Led activities at the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery. Discover our Gallery backpacks – activity packs filled with sensory, creative toys and fun things to see and do while you go around the exhibitions. We’ve also got colourful building blocks and DIY craft activities on offer, as well as the Richard Glynn Vivian Trail and Explorers Club Passport where you can earn specially designed sew-on badges. 11-4pm.
13th - Dino-After Hours at the Waterfront Museum. Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Ranger Chris and his amazing dinosaurs. Learn about these colossal creatures and come face to face with our baby T-Rex Ronnie. The rangers will teach you all about fossils, extinction, and bring the subject to life in a roarsome way. 4.30pm & 6.15pm. £7.50pp. Free popcorn. Ideal for ages 5 – 12yrs. Booking Essential. 13th - Magic Show at Gnoll Park. Free show between 12-4pm.
Gnoll Park. Dinosaurs in the park come along and join us for a fulfilled day when Ranger Chris will show you all the different Dinosaurs - theres lots more gong on including fun & games and prizes to be won. 11-5pm
14th - Craft it, Sow it, Grow it! at the Waterfront Museum. Pop in to decorate a plant pot and sow a seed ready for the summer. 12:30pm – 3:30pm. Free event. 14th - Balloontastic Science show at the Waterfront Museum. Join Ha Ha Harries’ and Cbeebies’ Becky Kitter for this interactive Bonkers Balloon Science Show full of thrills, spills, pops and bangs. 1pm & 3pm. 14th - Punch & Judy Show at Gnoll Park. Free show 12-4pm. 15th - Pongo's Party at the Gwyn Hall, Neath. 1.30pm and tickets £8 each. Come dressed in your best party clothes and help make Pongo's Party a day to remember, by joining in a show full of fun, songs and laughter.
16th - 25th - Easter Kids Club at Pembrey Country Park. Looking for something for the kids to do this Easter Half Term? Pembrey Country Park are holding a Kids Camp with lots of activities including Skiing, Den building, Bushcraft,Toboggan, Tubbing, Nature Walk, Beach combing, Frisbee Golf, Archery, Historic Walks, Cycling. £20 per day. 9.15-3.30pm. Booking Essential.
13th, 19th, 26th - Kid's Discos at the Purple Badger. Party night at the Purple Badger with balloon modelling, games and plenty of dancing. 6-8pm with a £3 entry.
15th - Bank Holiday Sports Day at the Purple Badger. Get into the competitive spirit and join in the fun with our family Sports Day. 1pm with free entry.
16th - Llanelly House Woodland Fairy Princess Tea. A wonderful Easter Holiday Treat and more magical memories to make at our Princess Tea featuring the New Woodland Fairy Princess by our lovely friends at Happily Ever After - Swansea. Tuesday 16th April 2019 12 noon. Children £8.95 & Adults £13.95. Booking essential. Please call us on 01554 772857
13th-29th - Giant Easter Duck Trail. WWT, Wetlands, Llanelli. Go quackers this Easter and challenge your family to explore our wetlands to find giant yellow ducks hiding amongst reeds, trees and, of course, their real-life cousins. Follow our special activity cards to find where these cheeky ducks are hiding and
15th - Superhero Day at Gnoll Park. Superhero Fun Day with lots of your favourite superheroes to meet and greet - there will also be party games - kiddies rides stalls and refreshments. 11-5pm.
17th - 21st, 23rd - 28th - Here in this Spring’ Self Led Activities at the Dylan Thomas Centre. Activities include spring themed creative writing activities, make a mini comic, puppets, games & a reading corner. 10-1pm.
17th - Art Festival Day at the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery. A day of workshops, activities and films. 113pm. All ages welcome free entry.
different Characters to have photos with and play party games to win prizes - there will also be kiddies rides stalls & refreshments. 11-5pm.
17th - Pirate Show at Gnoll Park. There will be kiddies rides - stalls - refreshments and party games starting from 11am then the Pirate Show will start at 12pm
21st - Easter Sunday Movie at the Waterfront Museum. Mary Poppins Returns (U). 2pm.
19th-22nd - Easter Bunny Weekend at Gwili Railway. Enjoy traditional Easter weekend fun at the steam railway all included in your special event ticket price. Take a trip back in time on the steam railway and join in the Easter trail. Meet the Easter Bunny with an Easter Egg for every child.
21st - Easter Sunday Family Raceday at Ffos Las Racecourse. Join us for our great value BIG Family Raceday on Sunday 21st April with 7 races on the card and plenty of free family entertainment on site! (Check our website soon for updates). Family tickets ( 2 x adults and kids go free) are £25 in advance and £30 on the gate. Single entry tickets are £15 and £20 on the day. Picnics (no alcohol) are welcome at this meeting.
19th - The Big Museum Easter Trail at the Waterfront Museum. Solve the clues and follow the trail around the Museum, then head back to the start to claim your egg-citing prize! 11-4pm 19th-22nd - The Big Museum Easter Trail at Waterfront Museum & St Fagans. 10-3pm. Solve the clues and follow the trail around the Museum, then head back to the start to claim your egg-citing prize! No advance booking needed for this event - pay at the desk on arrival, then collect your trails from the activity station. You can also hop on over to our other Easter trails at National Museum Cardiff
24th- 25th- Bing Live at the Princess Royal Theatre. The CBeebies favourites are brought to life in a brand-new stage production of fun, laughter, music and magical puppetry. 25th - Noisy Holiday at the Welfare, Ystradgynlais. This lively show contains a mix of live music, theatre, comedy, puppetry and animation. 26th, 27th - Build a Camera Workshop at the Waterfront Museum. Take a step on an exciting photographic adventure as you learn how to build a basic camera, & master the art of photography & darkroom techniques. Ages 8+. £3.50pp. 11am & 2pm. 27th-28th - Book Swap at the Waterfront Museum. 11-4pm. Having a clear out? Then offload your unwanted books and rummage our bursting book shelves to find a different collection in exchange.
21st- Magic show at the Purple Badger. Jampacked with comedy, magic, balloons, lots of silliness and plenty of audience participation! £4 entry at 7pm. 21st - Easter Sunday Fun Day at Gnoll Park. Join us this Easter Sunday for a great day for all the family - there will be Free Donkey rides - free petting farm - Free meet and greet characters plus easter fun and games and easter eggs to be won - there will also be kiddies rides - stalls and refreshments. 11-5pm. 21st - Easter Bunny Hunt and Crafty Fun at Oystermouth Castle. Pop along to the Castle on Easter Sunday for an Easter Bunny word search hunt, followed by Easter crafts! 11-4.30pm.
20th - Character Fun Day at Gnoll Park. Join us for the Character Funday when you will over 20
23rd- Mad Hatters Panto at the Purple Badger. Join the Mad Hatter on this incredible adventure to wonderland as Alice returns for his birthday tea party. 1pm & 3pm showings. Tickets £7. 23rd-25th - How to make a cloud in a Jam Jar…and other cool experiments! at the Waterfront Museum. Join award winning CBBC science communicator Jon Chase as delves in to the mysteries of other cool weather phenomenon and explains the secret of making a cloud in a jam jar! 11.30-3.30pm.
17th & 18th - Easter Holiday Nerf Warriors at the Purple Badger. A Nerf war is breaking out: are you going to be part of it? The front field will become a fully fledged battleground with obstacles and traps to negotiate, not to mention the enemy! Tickets £7 for 1 hour. 18th - Tower Princess Day at Gnoll Park. Join the Tower Princess as she finds her Prince and have a magical photo with them against the Tower Backdrop. 12-4pm.
22nd- Bank Holiday Easter Egg Hunt at the Purple Badger. 12-4pm
22nd- Jurassic Dinosaurs in the Park at Margam Park. Tiny, the huge Triceratops and Dexter cheeky feather T- Rex are here to help the fabulous Dr Fossil along with some of the mischievous dino babies!
27th - Knight School at Oystermouth Castle. Ever wondered what it would have been like to be a knight of the realm? Have a go at trying on different armoury, learning line commands and finding out all about weaponry and defence of the age.11-4.30pm. 27th - Tŷ Hafan Character Chase at Singleton Park, Swansea Tŷ Hafan,
the children’s hospice in Wales, is launching its first ever Character Chase, which will see fundraising families mixing & interacting with their favourite characters from story books, TV shows & films. 12.30-4pm. 27th - Margam Park Chilli festival. Free entry. Parking Charges apply. 10-5pm.
EASTER AT GWYN HALL, NEATH
Monday 15th April 1.30pm Tickets: £8 Come dressed in your best party clothes and help make Pongo’s Party a day to remember, by joining in a show full of fun, songs and laughter – play in a huge children’s band and take part in the town’s biggest ever game of pass the parcel! With a colourful farmyard and host of loveable puppet characters, Pongo’s Party is a family show particularly suitable for 2 – 7 year olds – and includes a special guest appearance by the Easter Bunny himself!
Love Cinema Dumbo - March 29th Wonder Park - April 8th Avengers: Endgame - April 26th Detective Pikachu - May 10th
Gwyn Hall Neath 0300 365 6677 I www.gwynhall.com Orchard Street, Neath, SA11 1DU
JOIN THEM ON THEIR BIKES
Pick up and drop off your Santander Cycle at any of the 5 docking stations located along the sweep of Swansea Bay. Mumbles station coming soon… Pay as you ride: ONLY £11 FOR 30 MINUTES ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS £60 Find out more and register at:
santandercycles.co.uk Bikes not suitable for those aged 14 years and under
ˆ NHW AR YMUNWCH A EU BEICIAU YN YSTOD Codwch a gollyngwch eich Beic Santander yn unrhyw un o’r 5 gorsaf ddocio sydd wedi eu lleoli ar hyd. Gorsaf y Mwmbwls ar gael cyn hir… Bae Abertawe Talwch wrth i chi fynd: £1 AM 30 MUNUD TANYSGRIFIADAU BLYNYDDOL £60 Darganfyddwch ragor a chofrestrwch yn:
santandercycles.co.uk
Nid yw’r beiciau’n addas i rai sy’n 14 oed ac iau
I came back to the U.K and worked in Marketing. It was then that I discovered Tiny Toes Ballet LTD and learned of the franchise opportunity. It seemed to be my dream job- to allow me to dance, teach, run my own company whilst still using my marketing skills every day and most importantly allowing me the flexibility of still having a career but being very present in my children’s lives.
Tell us about your business?
Tiny Toes Ballet Swansea is a wonderful dance school that teaches to children from as young as 6 months up to 7 years. We teach ballet and tap to boys and girls with a new theme each term that not only helps teach ballet but is also fully intergrated with the Early Years Foundation Stage. Our classes are sensory rich for the younger ages and then move on to focus on the art of ballet technique and language in the older classes.
Where did you begin and what motivated you to start your own business?
I started ballet when I was 3 years old. My mum recalls stories of how I would jig around to music before I could walk. So, as soon I was able to, I went to ballet. It was then and is now, my passion. I have a BA Hon in Dance and have taught all over the world- from dance schools, summer camps, cruise ships and holiday resorts. It was whilst I was travelling that I worked my way into the marketing industry. After 10 years of living abroad
How many children do you have?
I have 2 children with almost exactly 18 months between them. My son is just coming up 2 half and my daughter approaching 1 year old. And time goes so quickly! My husband and I always wanted to have our children fairly close in age and it’s been wonderful. There is just so much love in our house- along with noise, mess and toys. We have two big dogs too so we love to spend time as a family going for treks up the mountain or walks along the beach.
How do you juggle childcare?
We are very lucky. Neither my husband or I work 9 to 5 and the children’s grand parents are very involved in their lives too. I can tailor my business hours to fit around my family needs and my husband works unsociable hours, so some evenings and some long days. The children then spend one day with their grandparents too, which is 100% the highlight of the week (the children’s and their grandparents)
What’s been your biggest challenge and how he overcome it?
The biggest challenge so far, and I feel blessed that I do not feel burdened by owning my own company, has been the start up costs. Not considering the initial fee, but the what seems like constant outgoings within the first month or two whilst starting up and with seeing little return. But, the bonus of this is that only a few months on the constant outgoings steady as you become more established and you see the benefit or the work by money starting to come back in to you. The most rewarding this is, that the harder you work the bigger return you see. And that’s a great feeling and sense or accomplishment and achievement.
What advice would you give to other mums wanting to start their own business. Do it. You CAN do it. Find your passion and let that drive you. Because no matter how hard you work or how many hours you put in, if you love what you do it is never a chore or a ‘job’. It is your passion. Have a plan and take it in baby steps. Know what your end goal is and aim for it, but don’t always focus on only that. Enjoy the small and purposeful achievements and steps that you take along the way. Don’t be afraid to make it work for you. Look at what the business needs to make it successful, but don’t forget to do the same to you and your needs too.
LIVE LEARN SWIM Learn to swim at YOUR National Pool with high quality and experienced teachers. Continuous Swimming Courses are now available all year round To book on and help your child learn an important life skill, call us on 01792 513513 or email us on enquries@walesnational poolswansea.co.uk
Don't forget to follow us on social media to get the latest updates @walesnatpool
Wales National Pool Swansea, Sketty Lane, Swansea, SA2 8QG
I still don’t understand’, ‘what if I fail’. Now as a parent it’s possible to try and sooth these worries, but not always. They’re the total unknown to a child. One interesting way that I have found to work is to address worries around SAT’s is to introduce positive thinking. When you talk to your child try to focus their thoughts and words on their strengths, their ability to listen, ask questions, even their ability to talk to you about learning challenging topics (whether they understand it or not) – do this using positive praise and sometimes you may need to give overboard praise so they feel encouraged. They should feel that their opinions and feelings are valued and respected. So, Christmas seems a distant memory, Valentines day has been and gone and the Easter Bunny is getting ready to visit, and many of us are wondering where this year has gone already! However, before we eat our weight in chocolate, there’s a small matter of Standard Assessment Tests (SAT’s) to prepare for!
I reckon there’s about 4 ‘camps’ in which parents sit: One - Yeay! Awesome, my child loves school, loves learning and these SAT’s will be like the best Christmas present ever. Two - If that’s what is part of my child’s education, then so be it. Three - My child is not academic and no matter how much you try to teach my ‘fish to climb a tree’ they’ll always do their own thing. Four - My kids going to be ‘ill’ this week then they don’t have to sit them. I know parents in each camp! From around the 13th May, most primary school children will undergo the national testing of how well they can climb trees as fish, monkeys, snakes and birds! I say it in this manner because EVERY child is different. Remember exactly that…Every Child Is Different. They learn at different paces, they all have different abilities, different interests and different goals in life. SAT’s were brought into play in between 1991-1995. They were introduced....
Talk about what you may have learned in that day, week, month. What challenged you in that learning. Think back to a time when you felt worried and were still able to overcome the situation. Show them that it’s normal and ok to feel uncertain at times. Together, write down the worries and explain that once written down it’s a way of releasing these stresses. Most of the time it’s the unknown that children cannot process or make sense of and that’s really scary for them, so reassure them that you are there no matter what. Through my experience of the education system, as a parent, especially when iGCSE’s came around, I remember mentally and verbally, taking a step back from the whole stressful situation and thought everything happens for a reason and what will be will be. I had to trust in the fact that it was ok not to be able to be in control of my child’s worries and stresses. Afterall feeling stressed is just wanting things to be different from how they are now, this isn’t the case for most. The biggest piece of personal advice I can offer is this. Have trust in the future, sometimes we cannot control everything which lies ahead, and That’s Ok! So, remember to always approach the situation with a calm mind. Easier said than done, but it’s possible. Make sure your child(ren) know that it’s ok to feel unsure and nervous, as this will encourage them to feel confident in their feelings and less likely to battle with themselves.
“…in a political desire to regulate education, holding schools accountable. However, its form and nature also reflect educational and curriculum concerns and technical assessment issues.”
Finally, do something to take their mind off it all. First meet them halfway and sit with them if they must revise and offer to help, then go out and enjoy the outdoors or an activity, game or visit somewhere exciting. Do something together that they’ll love to do.
Taken from – ‘A brief history of a testing time: national curriculum assessment in England 1989–2008’ by Chris Whetton, National Foundation for Educational Research, UK, Published online: 20 May 2009.
Encourage the next generation to LIVE and try their best in everything they do. We learn from our mistakes and are then able to move forwards. This is the most valuable lesson in life.
This however has brought about more frustration for parents than ever before. If you sense tension in the air take a step back, remember these children are experiencing feelings of worry in a variety of ways and rightly so. They’re about to be tested on information that they may or may not have understood. They could be thinking, ‘what if I’m tested on the information that was taught when I was ill’, ‘what if I get tested on information
With love and Positivity
Remember: Life is for LIVING!
Jennifer Barnfield
Positivity and Visualisation Practitioner
THE PRINCESS ROYAL THEATRE CIVIC CENTRE, PORT TALBOT, SA13 1PJ
01639 763214
www.princessroyaltheatre.com
BING LIVE!
Wednesday 24th & Thursday 25th April
Dydd Mercher 24 & Dydd Iau 26 Ebrill
The CBeebies favourites are brought to life in a brand new stage production full of fun, laughter, music and magical puppetry. Perfect for pre-schoolers!
MARGAM COUNTRY PARK
MARGAM, PORT TALBOT, SA13 2TJ 01639 881635
www.margamcountrypark.com
Easter Bank Holiday! JURASSIC DINOSAURS IN THE PARK
Monday 22nd April Dydd Llun 22 Ebrill
Tiny, the huge Triceratops and Dexter, the cheeky, feathered T-Rex are here to help the fabulous Dr Fossil, along with some of the mischievous Dino Babies! A brilliant family 'Dino' day out!
Outdoor Adventure Play • Indoor Adventure Play Indoor Race Track • Woodland Walk Farm Animals • Duck Ponds • Farm Cafe R OPECNLOSEEVD CEHRIYSTMDASAAYNDALL Y B OX ING EAR DAY !!! OPENING TIMES:
Mon - Fri (Term time) 10am - 6pm
Sat/Sun & School Holidays 10am - 5pm
01656 743 246 info@wiggleysfunfarm.co.uk www.wiggleysfunfarm.co.uk
Admission
Children over 90cm Children under 90cm Babies in arms Adult with paying child Children’s Parties AFTER SCHOOL DEAL:
Hot meal, drink & play (Term time, Mon-Fri after 3.30pm)
£6.50 £4.50 FREE £1.50 £8.50 £6.00
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April KIDS DISCOS 13th/19th/26th April Disco night means one thing... PARTY NIGHT at The Purple Badger! We’ve got a great night lined up for the kids in The Abbey Room, including balloon modelling, games, and plenty of dancing. 6- 8pm, £3 entry! MONDAY 15TH APRIL: BANK HOLIDAY SPORTS DAY! Get into the competitive spirit and join in the fun with our family sports day! There will be races, challenges, and sports to get stuck into throughout the day. Mums v Dads, Grown-Ups v Kids... This is a prime opportunity to win irreversible bragging rights! Starts 1pm, free entry! 17TH& 18TH APRIL: EASTER HOLIDAYS NERF WARRIORS A Nerf War is breakingout: Are you going to be a part of it? The front field will become a fullyfledged battleground with obstacles and traps to negotiate, not to mention the enemy! Each war will be fought between two teams, with a maximum of ten warriors per team. Starts at 12pm,1pm,3pm and 4pm. (age restricted over 6yrs) Secure your preferred time slot now: grab your tickets from the office. Tickets: £7 (one-hour session)
To book all our events please contact the booking office on 01792 391 083 (open daily between 8.30am and 4.30pm)
SUNDAY 21ST APRIL: MAGIC SHOW Kids love magic! Jam packed with comedy, magic, balloons, lots of silliness & plenty of audience participation....don’t take our word for it find out for yourselves! Starts 7pm, £4 entry! MONDAY 22ND APRIL: BANK HOLIDAY EASTER EGG HUNT What is Easter without an Easter Egg Hunt? Will your kids be able to spot the Easter Bunny as he dashes around the Purple Badger leaving a trail of chocolate treats? Join us between 12pm and 4pm. We’ll have different stages for different ages TUESDAY 23RD APRIL: MAD HATTERS PANTO Who says Panto’s are just for Christmas? Join the Mad Hatter on this incredible adventure to Wonderland as Alice returns for his birthday tea party. However, all is not well as the evil Knave of Hearts is looking to capture Alice and only Mad Hatter can save her. A classic tale with characters... Alice, Mad Hatter, Knave of Hearts, Caterpillar and Cheshire Cat! 1pm & 3pm showings Tickets £7.
Call us 01792 391 083
Follow all the events at The Purple Badger why not sign up to our monthly newsletter or check out our website @BadgerGower The Purple Badger Llanrhidian Gower
Llanrhidian Holiday Park, Llanrhidian, Swansea, SA3 1EU
www.purplebadgerrestaurant.co.uk
We look forward to welcoming you to our... Open Morning Wednesday 13th March 9.30am - 11.30am
Open Day Saturday 29th June 10.30am - 3.30pm Best for your child - best from your child
01792 298537 | www.oakleighhouseschool.co.uk admissions@oakleighhouseschool.co.uk
Oakleigh House School, 38 Penlan Crescent, Swansea SA2 0RL
WHY NOT MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO VIEW OUR NURSERY? Individual learning programmes for children to meet their development needs. Outstanding care and support to ensure every pupil ourishes. An enrichment programme that includes Gymnastics, Ballet, Yoga and outdoor learning.
Wrap around cover from 8am – 6pm Activity based holiday club available for an additional 10 weeks of the year.
...a’r digwyddiadau cyffrous niferus sy’n cael eu cynnal ar draws Abertawe - gan gynnwys gwyliau’r Pasg
mis Ebrill
mis Mawrth Tan 31 ‘Starlight Order’: o Y Gododdin i In Parenthesis Canolfan Dylan Thomas Tan 29 Mehefin Cofiwch Cefn Coed Amgueddfa Abertawe
1 - 6 Fame Theatr y Grand Abertawe 13 Gwneuthurwyr Ifranc Glynn Vivian 13 Gweithdai Defnyddio Clai Castell Ystumllwynarth
1 - 2 Croeso Canol y Ddinas
15 Sooty’s Magic Show Theatr y Grand Abertawe
2 Sgwad Sgwennu’r Ifanc Canolfan Dylan Thomas 13 Gwobrau Chwaraeon Abertawe Y Brangwyn
16 Gweithdy Deunydd Yysgrifennu a Chardiau ‘Here in this spring’ i Deuluoedd Canolfan Dylan Thomas
23 Sgwad Sgwennu’r Ifanc Canolfan Dylan Thomas
17 Diwrnod Gŵyl Gelf Glynn Vivian
29 Here Come The Girls Y Brangwyn
19 - 22 Helfa Basg Fawr yr Amgueddfa Amgueddfa Genedlaethol y Glannau 27 Ras Gymeriadau Tŷ Hafan Parc Singleton 27 Ysgol Marchogion Castell Ystumllwynarth
Cewch wybod am y cyfan sy’n digwydd yn
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...and the many exciting events that are taking place across Swansea - including Easter holidays
March Until 31 ‘Starlight Order’: from Y Gododdin to In Parenthesis Dylan Thomas Centre Until 29 June Cefn Coed Remembered Swansea Museum 1 - 2 Croeso City Centre 2 Young Writers Squad Dylan Thomas Centre 13 Swansea Sports Awards Brangwyn 23 Young Writers Squad Dylan Thomas Centre 29 Here Come The Girls Brangwyn
April 1 - 6 Fame Swansea Grand Theatre 13 Young Makers Glynn Vivian 13 Clay Making Workshops Oystermouth Castle 15 Sooty’s Magic Show Swansea Grand Theatre 16 ‘Here in this spring’ Stationery and Cards Family Workshop Dylan Thomas Centre 17 Art Festival Day Glynn Vivian 19 - 22 The Big Museum Easter Trail National Waterfront Museum 27 Tŷ Hafan Character Chase Singleton Park 27 Knight School Oystermouth Castle
Find out all that is taking place at
enjoyswanseabay.com
The King isn’t pleased to see Hamish in his sock nor the Queen pleased to see Hermione in her knickers! They must be mended at once. So they try a myriad of other places but all with the same results, holes are just not wanted especially in places such as boats, tyres, pockets or custard jugs! Oh dear, the holes feel useless. It’s not their fault, they are holes!
This edition we take a look at some wonderful picture books for the under 6's. Great to give with the chocolate eggs this Easter! Title: The Big Race Written by David Barrow, winner of the Sebastian Walker Award. Publisher: Hodder Children’s Books The Big Race is so challenging that only the toughest animals can take part. However when little Aardvark joins Cheetah, Buffalo, and Crocodile on the starting line everyone thinks it’s hilarious. What on earth is she thinking of?! The animals are off! The pace to the story increases as the competitors charge across the desert, run uphill, jump down a waterfall and power into the air. It’s an exciting contest as the three tough animals shift in and out of the lead position, each using their own individual strengths to gain the advantage. Meanwhile in delightful contrast, Aardvark is just enjoying herself as she pootles up the rear. It could be anyone’s race and for one glorious moment, it looks like Aardvark might win by a fluke. But it is not to be as she finally comes in last as the others stampede across the line together in a photo finish for first place. But is Aardvark unhappy? No, not at all. The underlying message is that competition is healthy but there is also a good time to be had just by taking part and being a good sport. A humorous tale presented with wonderful illustrations. Great to see an Aardvark in the leading role! And a charming one at that! Title: The Hole Story Written by Paul Bright and illustrated by Bruce Ingman Published by Andersen Press This is a quirky little tale about two holes, Hamish and Hermione who live in a piece of Swiss cheese in the kitchen at the royal palace. Unfortunately mice eat the cheese leaving them homeless so they set about looking for somewhere else to stay. But it’s really hard, no one seems to want them!
Finally they stay in a piece of wood! Result, a carpenter sees them and has a brainwave. He turns the wood into flutes. Now Hermione and Hamish are overjoyed that they are such useful holes as the royal children can now make music. Highly imaginative and original story with attractive poster paint style illustrations. A simple but very clever idea. Hamish and Hermione are adorable sweet characters that children will love. Title: Old Hat Written and illustrated by Emily Gravett, winner of the Kate Greenaway Medal Published by Two Hoots Hoots. Harbet wants to fit in with the snobby style crowd but he doesn’t quite seem to measure up to their idea of fashion as far as his choice of head attire goes. He tries really hard to impress them and sets about looking for a new hat but each one in their considered opinion is the same – old hat! Finally he gives up. He decides not to bother with a hat anymore and just show off his head. With the unexpected twist that he displays some rather unusual feather style hair growing from his head! This takes the snobby style crowd by surprise and the tables are turned as they set about copying him for a change. Harbet shows that trying to be something you aren’t doesn’t always work, and just being yourself is enough, if not a better way to influence others. A great twist on the saying old hat, that parents will appreciate. Children will enjoy the range of avant garde hats and humorous head wear puns. And Harbet is a dinky little creature. Emily Gravett is a distinctive and original voice in children’s picture books. And this one won’t disappoint! Next time we’ll look at what’s new in chapter books for six to nine year olds.
And just a reminder about the award winning chapter book Cinderella’s Other Shoe currently a finalist in the Wishing Shelf Book Awards!
A captivating world of educational movement and music for babies and toddlers from 6 months. Fully Integrated with the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum. “Melody absolutely loves ballet and Miss Eleanor is always so lovely to the children and always makes it fun for them. I’ve been suggesting all my friends should come along! Definitely worth a go!”
Swansea Classes Under New Management with a brand new teacher!
sses ew Cla Brand N ansea ars: in Sw s - 7 ye
! 6 £36 for eme each term th w e n d n Bra
Contact Miss Eleanor on 07456 524942 or eleanor@tinytoesballet.co.uk Find out more or book now at www.tinytoesballet.co.uk
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PLANNING FOR YOUR CHILD'S FUTURE When it comes to your child's future, it is important to plan ahead. Selecting the right school is a vital step in planning their educational and career pathway however it is equally important to prepare for unforeseen eventualities, and none are more vital than a Will. While no parent wants to think of a time when they are not there for their children, it is prudent to have your Will in place and inheritance affairs in order should one, or both parents pass away suddenly. THERE ARE MANY CONSIDERATIONS INCLUDING: • • • • • •
Who will look after your children should you die during their childhood What are your wishes as to their upbringing? Who will they live with and where? What finances are in place for their upbringing and who will manage the funds? At what age will they receive their inheritance? Can they access their inheritance early, if so under what parameters?
We also specialise in Wills where the child may be disabled, and the care needs are more complicated. Areas for consideration that we can plan for and look to establish a Disabled Persons Trust include: • Do they need continuous care or periodical assistance? • Will they be able to manage their own finances or their own social care? • Do they receive means-tested benefits and would they lose these should they inherit a lump sum of money? • Would they be able to manage an inheritance? • Where, and with whom, would they live? For expert Wills advice, arrange a confidential meeting with our team by calling 01792 450010 or email Advice@plandp.co.uk
At Peter Lynn and Partners, we are experts at tax efficient Wills planning and offer a professional, personalised service that tackles these questions and more.
The Speech Clinic
Independent Speech and Language Therapy for children and adults across South Wales Clinics in Swansea and Cardiff Home and school visits Assessment, diagnosis, therapy and reports Speech sounds pronunciation Language delay Stammering Autistic spectrum disorder Learning difficulties Stroke rehabilitation
The Speech Clinic 56 Walter Road, Swansea SA1 5PY T: 01792 206 784 | M: 07934 432 116 E: reception@thespeechclinic.co.uk www.thespeechclinic.co.uk
Training in Musical Theatre
with award winning Musicality Academy SS A CL ED! A TR ADD X E W NO
Wednesdays 5.30-6.30
at The Canolfan, Gorseinon For children in school Years 3, 4 & 5 who love to ACT, SING & DANCE! Classes also available on Mondays, Wednesdays & Saturdays
BOOK NOW - 07980 185462 www.musicalityacademy.com
Open: Tuesday - Sunday 2 April - 29 September and weekends during October 11am - 5pm
Ar agor: Dydd Mawrth - dydd Sul 2 Ebrill - 29 Medi a phenwythnosau yn ystod mis Hydref 11am - 5pm
Closed Mondays except Bank Holidays
Ar gau ar ddydd Llun ac eithrio Gwyliau Banc
Sat 13 Apr / 11am - 4.30pm Clay Making Workshops with local artist David Marchant
Sad 13 Ebr / 11am - 4.30pm Gweithdai Defnyddio Clai gyda’r artist lleol David Marchant
Sun 21 Apr / 11am - 4.30pm Easter Bunny Hunt and Crafty Fun
Sul 21 Ebr / 11am - 4.30pm Helfa Bwni’r Pasg a Hwyl gyda Chrefftau
Sat 27 Apr / 11am - 4.30pm Knight School
Sad 27 Ebr / 11am - 4.30pm Ysgol Marchogion
swansea.gov.uk/oystermouthcastle abertawe.gov.uk/castellystumllwynarth
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