For Parents & Carers in Northeast Cheshire & South Manchester
AVAILABLE FOR HOME DELIVERY BY POST PANTOMIMES & SHOWS CHRISTMAS EVENTS WINTER DAYS OUT
FANTASTIC KIDS’ ACTIVITY PULL-OUT
SENSORY CENTRE MENTAL HEALTH FAMILY TRAVEL
THE RETURN OF THE BABY & TODDLER DIARY
HAPPY 20th BIRTHDAY TO US! Issue 80 • Winter 2021
NEW
£60m campus open!
Infant & Junior Taster Afternoon Thursday 11 November
Sixth Form Options Evening
Thursday 11 November | (Online event)
Life At King’s (11+ event)
Saturday 27 November
The King’s School in Macclesfield | www.kingsmac.co.uk | 01625 260000
• Stunning new 80-acre campus in Prestbury • State-of-the-art facilities for girls & boys age 3–18 • Excellent GCSE & A-Level results • Unrivalled extra-curricular programme • 11+ & Sixth Form Scholarships & Bursaries
WELCOME TO OUR 20th BIRTHDAY ISSUE Exactly 20 years ago I had a baby at what was then my home in Alderley Edge, and I was pregnant with my second. I had an idea for a new local magazine for parents (despite having no experience of journalism, publishing or marketing), and I was on a mission to publish and distribute Issue 1 before going into labour. So Little Tigers was born a month before my son, and now here I am publishing Issue 80. It’s been a winding journey of ups and downs since then, and those two kids are now at university, but I still love this business and everything it stands for.
CONTENTS Pages 4—7 Days Out & Events — get out and about this winter Page 9 Mental Health Support for Struggling Parents — support groups, charities, helplines and other ideas Pages 10—11 Family Travel — Our writers and their families report back from their trips to Mallorca and Belfast Page 12 Wythenshawe Therapeutic Sensory Room
The pandemic has changed us all and Little Tigers has had to evolve with the times too. So I’ve had a new website built! That was long overdue. And now you, dear Reader, can either buy a printed copy for home delivery by post, pick up a free copy at one of our distribution outlets (libraries, nurseries, soft play, playgroups, children’s centres, leisure centres and a small number of primary schools), or you can read the magazine online if that’s what you prefer.
Pages 13—20 8-Page Kids’ Activity Pullout Section — with fun puzzles, colourings and ‘spot the difference’ games
I hope you like the new format and content on these pages — please let me know what you think. In the meantime, stay safe, take care and happy reading.
Page 30 School News —stories from some of the independent schools that support Little Tigers
Alison Stodolnic
Page 31 What COP26 Taught Me About Dinosaurs —Daisy Dorothy learns about ‘mass extinctions’
Founder and Editor
Pages 22—25 Pantomimes and Family Shows Pages 26—29 Baby & Toddler Diary — local community groups
ORDER THE NEXT ISSUE FOR HOME DELIVERY BY POST www.littletigers.co.uk/shop The Team: Thank you to Catherine Lawler, Victoria Pollitt, Daisy Dorothy, Iwan our driver, printers Buxton Press, Simon our website designer, all our fantastic advertisers, and everyone else who contributed words, information and images for this magazine. Email: editor@littletigers.co.uk Phone: 07392 338586 Website: www.littletigers.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/littletigersmag
Digital Edition: www.issuu.com/littletigersmag © Little Tigers Magazine (2021). Nothing may be reproduced without permission (copyrighted material). Established in 2001, Little Tigers provides ideas and information to parents, grandparents and carers of children aged 0 to 12 in northeast Cheshire and south Manchester. We accept no responsibility for any consequences that may arise from the content on these pages. Please email us with any comments.
DAYS OUT & EVENTS
Here is the Little Tigers pick of Winter and Christmas events happening this year. Many of the venues expect you to pre-book nowadays, and dates and details might change nearer the time, so as always please double check before you head out. There are so many pantomimes and live theatre shows happening over the festive season that we’ve done a special feature on these on pages 22 – 25. Now until 23 December THE LANTERNS – CALL OF THE WILD Enchanting illuminations at the zoo, with lanterns, costumed characters and Christmas scenes. Chester Zoo www.chesterzoo.org
26 November – 31 December CHRISTMAS AT DELAMERE FOREST A forest Christmas trail with twinkling lights, giant baubles, tunnels of light and a fire garden. Delamere Forest www.forestryengland.uk/christmas-at-delamere
Now until 2 January CHRISTMAS AT DUNHAM MASSEY Lights, lasers and sounds throughout a Christmassy woodland trail – with street food vendors and drinks. Dunham Massey, Altrincham www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunham-massey
27 – 28 November & 4 – 5 December STARS SCIENCE SHOW Live science show about the stars, for ages 5+. Various times, with ‘fidget-friendly’ shows at 1.30pm. Part of the two ‘Christmas Weekends’ at Jodrell Bank, with shopping & crafts. Jodrell Bank, Macclesfield www.jodrellbank.net
Now until 3 January HARRY POTTER: A FORBIDDEN FOREST EXPERIENCE An evening of lights through an outdoor interactive woodland trail, especially for Harry Potter fans. See mystical characters, remember your favourite movie scenes, and enjoy food and drink. Arley Hall & Gardens, Northwich www.arleyhallandgardens.com Now until 3 January SKATE MANCHESTER Ice skating at Cathedral Gardens, close to all the Christmas festivities and food at Manchester Corn Exchange and the Christmas Markets. Cathedral Gardens, Manchester www.skatemanchester.com
26 November – 23 December POLAR EXPRESS TRAIN RIDE Starting at Froghall Station in Staffordshire, this is a Polar Express themed steam train ride, with hot chocolate, cookies and a visit to Santa (limited tickets left). Churnet Valley Railway www.churnetvalleyrailway.co.uk 27 November – 24 December SANTA STEAM TRAIN Meet Father Christmas on these special Christmas steam train rides for families (selected dates, limited tickets left). Foxfield Railway Station www.foxfieldrailway.co.uk
27 November – 24 December SANTA SPECIALS An 80-minute festive steam train ride through the Irwell Valley (selected dates, limited tickets left). Bury Bolton Street Station www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk 27 November – 3 January ONE SNOWY NIGHT A Percy the Park Keeper themed Christmas garden trail – collect your trail map and pencil, snack & sticker. Tatton Park, Knutsford www.tattonpark.org.uk 1 – 12 December 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS Meet Santa and special guests, including a Christmas Princess on the 4th and 11th, at these special Christmas pop up events over the first 12 days of December. There’s a wide range of food options and a Christmas market there too. Corn Exchange Manchester
www.cornexchangemanchester.co.uk 4 – 23 December MAGICAL FATHER CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE A Christmas experience including an interactive tour, storytelling and a visit to Father Christmas. Wythenshawe Hall, Manchester sneakyexperience.digitickets.co.uk
Scenes from Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience at Arley Hall & Gardens, Northwich
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“the business of childhood is best conducted in the outdoors”
Children are practical learners, responding best to practical experiences. Doing is learning - the Montessori way. MEAB Accredited
) 01625 860660 8 www.alderleydaynursery.com Alderley Day Nursery, Congleton Road, Nether Alderley, SK10 4TD www.facebook.com/alderleydaynursery www.instagram.com/alderleydaynursery/
Live Music Acoustic performances of classic & contemporary music.
Every Thursday, 6–9pm
Shop Local Forever Manchester will have a Pop-Up Shop on Fennel Street selling local artwork, T-shirts, postcards and one-off editions.
Festıve Family Fun Skate in any weather this autumn and winter at the enchanting Cathedral Gardens.
Open now!
For the first 12 days of December you can meet Santa Claus and his helpers here at Corn Exchange. See his Magical Wishing Mirror or even peek inside the Naughty or Nice book!
Eat, Drink & Be Merry
Fun for all the Family
Great for a spot of lunch, or an evening meal – whether you fancy Italian, Indian, German, Pan Asian or Vietnamese – the choice is yours!
Because Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without some, slightly too competitive, inter-family rivalry.
Find out more about all the festivities cornexchangemanchester.co.uk The Corn Exchange, Exchange Square, Manchester M4 3TR
from 1 December Weekdays: 4–6pm Weekends: 2–4pm
NEW!
A Nice Sip Christmas Markets The world-famous Manchester Christmas Markets return to Cathedral Gardens and Fennel Street this year. On the doorstep of the Corn Exchange.
from 12 November
Not just for Summer! Taiwanese bubble tea and waffle ice cream.
DAYS OUT & EVENTS 4 December – 2 January WINTER WONDERLAND MANCHESTER Indoor Christmas theme park, featuring rides, stage shows, a visit to Santa and lots more besides. Event City, Trafford Park
EARLY SELL-OUTS: A DIARY NOTE FOR 2022
We have noticed over the years that a few fantastic Christmas events consistently sell out very www.winterwonderlandmanchester.com early in the season, which means we are never able to include them in our Winter events listings. 4 December – 2 January CHRISTMAS BRICKTACULAR Lego build and play areas, Christmas So our advice to you, dear Reader, themed rides, a scavenger hunt and is to make a diary note for early Autumn 2022 so you can grab your other games. tickets early before they go next Legoland Discovery Centre www.legolanddiscoverycentre.com/manchester year! These events include: 4 December – 3 January PERCY THE PARK KEEPER’S TRAIL Pick up a trail map and explore the gardens along the winter trail. Lyme Park, Disley www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme 10 & 18 December OUTDOOR ART CLUB Fun creative activities to be done while exploring and playing outside in the fresh air (free, no need to book). Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester www.whitworth.manchester.ac.uk 19 December, 3 – 4pm CHRISTMAS CAROLS IN THE STABLEYARD Sing along to carols with the King Edward Musical Society Band and choir. A free event but you do have to pay for parking. Tatton Park, Knutsford www.tattonpark.org.uk
MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS *** SOLD OUT FOR 2021 *** Quarry Bank Mill, Wilmslow www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank SANTA VISITS POOLES CAVERN *** SOLD OUT FOR 2021 *** Buxton Country Park www.poolescavern.co.uk SANTA STEAM TRAIN SPECIALS *** SOLD OUT FOR 2021 *** Leek & Rudyard Railway www.rlsr.org BREAKFAST WITH SANTA *** SOLD OUT FOR 2021 *** Stockport Plaza stockportplaza.co.uk FATHER CHRISTMAS IN THE FARMYARD *** SOLD OUT FOR 2021 *** Tatton Park, Knutsford www.tattonpark.org.uk
FREE TWO-WEEK TRIAL Stagecoach Altrincham provides part-time performing arts training for children and teenagers aged 4 to 18 years, with new students being offered a two-week free trial. Having been running successfully for over 20 years, their aim is to nurture and develop potential through singing, acting and dance classes – stretching young imaginations and building confidence. Some terms are ‘show terms’, where the young people work towards putting on a costume staged musical show – a great opportunity to get a taste of the stage and the chance to perform to a live audience of friends and family. There are many other performance opportunities too, from flash mobs to professional theatres. Students also have the opportunity to take exams, which many find helps their progression in musical theatre, and when applying for university. Stagecoach Altrincham has an excellent team of highly qualified staff and pride themselves on providing exciting, inspiring and quality work. You can find out about class times and enrol for January on the website. Contact the Principal Marion Hankin on 07904 451199, or you can email altrincham@stagecoach.co.uk.
www.stagecoach.co.uk/altrincham
Family Friendly Shows & Children’s Activities at Buxton Opera House When it comes to live theatre, a traditional pantomime is a great way for families to spend time together over Christmas. This year’s production at Buxton Opera House is Aladdin, starring James Holmes as the dame. It runs from 11 December to 1 January and there is a ‘relaxed performance’ on 15 December and BSL (British sign language) interpreted performance on 28 December. Northern Ballet presents two child-friendly 40-minute performances of Pinocchio on Tuesday 8 February, at a very reasonable price of £8 (adult) and £7 (child). This is a great way to introduce your little ones to the magic of live ballet, music and theatre. Billionaire Boy, based on the David Walliams children’s book, follows during the Easter holidays between 20 – 24 April. During the school holidays, there are also craft, storytelling and exploration workshops at Buxton Opera House. And young people aged 5 to 11 or 12 to 17 can also join the Young Company youth theatre group. www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 7
FOUNDED IN 1487
An independent school for children ages 3-18 years Assistance with fees available at 11+ and 16+ (means tested), academic and music scholarships
Highest Inspection Rating of “Excellent”
Book online for Open Event Senior School Open Morning Saturday 13th November
Senior School Entrance Exam Wednesday 12th January 2022 Senior and Junior School day tours available Extensive school bus routes including Sale, Altrincham and Hale
SGS Inspires Tel: 0161 456 9000
www.stockportgrammar.co.uk
MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT FOR STRUGGLING PARENTS By Alison Stodolnic
Most parents, carers, teachers and grandparents of young children have had a couple of tough years, emotionally. So here are a few ideas for staying connected, keeping calm, asking for mental health help and getting through to the other side.
SNOWDROPS Snowdrops is an informal peer support group in Stockport that helps build friendships between parents (of babies and toddlers) with low mood, anxiety and depression. The focus is on wellbeing and mental health. For information, you can contact Vicky Reedy (who runs other groups at St Chads Church in Romiley, Stockport, listed in the Baby & Toddler Diary on pages 26 to 29) on 07745 862557.
THE SMILE GROUP Smile is a local charity that supports mums with perinatal mental health problems, from pregnancy up to when the child is three. This might include a wide range of mental health issues, including feelings of anxiety, worrying, depression, low self-confidence and difficulty with baby bonding. Smile runs peer support groups in Macclesfield and Congleton (currently bookable), and Nantwich and Sandbach (drop-in or book ahead), available to anyone who can physically get there. The charity also offers specialist counselling, whole-family support and one-to-one support sessions for Mums who live in Cheshire East.
I spoke to Ruth Williams, Operations Director, who founded Smile with Vicky told me that some mums are Natalie Nuttall in 2011 after they had reluctant to go to groups because both experienced postnatal mental they feel too anxious, in which case health difficulties. Ruth explained that she recommends Snowdrops as a first step: “It’s a smaller group, it’s got different families have experienced parenting in the pandemic in very mums who are anxious themselves different ways. – so that’s been happening and it’s been lovely to see them being brave For some, it’s been a largely positive enough to step out,” she said. experience because their partner “At Snowdrops there’s a lot of space has been working at home so they’ve in the room and there aren’t that many been around more to help out and who attend, it’s a really gentle way of see the milestones of their baby’s getting them out of the house and into early development. But others have their first group.” Snowdrops meets on found it incredibly difficult: “Covid has Wednesdays 12.45 – 2.15pm. robbed them, it’s taken things away
TALK TO YOUR GP
There are therapies and medications available on the NHS. As well as counselling (which is in high demand), there are some online mental health programmes that you might find helpful. Ask your GP for help.
can access by phone, webchat or email. www.youngminds.org.uk If you need urgent help or support, you can call The Samaritans free any time of the day or night on 116123. www.samaritans.org
There is a free and confidential helpline and webchat on CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably), which is mainly focused on men’s Young Minds is a mental health charity for parents and young people. mental health and preventing male There’s a parent’s helpline which you suicide. www.thecalmzone.net
HELPLINES
from them, they’ve not been able to do things on maternity leave, registering the birth, partners going to scans – for some it’s been a very negative experience,” she said. Either way, there have not been the same opportunities to mix and meet people over the last two years, and lots of parents are feeling somehow disconnected or lonely. Ruth has this advice for anyone who is worried about their mental health: “No matter how you’re feeling, there is help and support out there. It’s about being open and honest about how you’re feeling. If you are struggling, mention it to somebody – get some help, get some support – because some of those negative thoughts aren’t just in your head, lots of other people are potentially feeling like that too.” You can self-refer to The Smile Group through a health professional such as a midwife, health visitor or GP. Ruth said: “After the referral comes in, one of the girls will pick it up and make contact with the mum by text, email or phone call and have a conversation, to help work out which service is best for them – whether it’s attending a group, the one-to-one service or counselling.” www.smilegroup.org.uk
MIND is a mental health charity, with resources and information about getting support, including a helpline and webchat. www.mind.org.uk
FIND INNER PEACE
Sitting quietly every day to meditate can help you reduce your stress and anxiety levels over time – the more you practice, the better it gets. There are many meditation apps, books and videos available – two of the leading apps are Headspace and Calm. 9
FAMILY TRAVEL
Puerto de Alcudia and (inset) the beach and hotel swim-up pool
A Half-Term Trip to the Island of Mallorca To land at night is to preserve the mystery of your surroundings until morning, and we were in for a pleasant surprise on our break to the Balearic island of Mallorca, writes Victoria Pollitt.
The early signs are good – we land at Palma and are out of the plane, the airport and into our hire car in a record-breaking 20 minutes. Safely at the hotel a little later, we love our big open-plan, ground floor room, despite the partially see-through frosted toilet door. And when we pull back the curtains the following morning, a big terrace awaits us, furnished with a table and chairs and comfy sun loungers. But there’s also a gate – a gate that leads on to a swim-up pool. Bliss. We are in Puerto de Alcudia, to the north of the island. It’s surrounded by mountainous scenery and is within walking distance of Playa de Alcudia, a long sandy beach with shallow waters and playground equipment. We also spend time on some of the other stunning beaches
and explore Port de Pollensa, which inspired Agatha Christie’s story Problem at Pollensa Bay. Alcudia Old Town is well worth a visit as are the fabulous Caves of Drach with their stalagmites and stalactites and stunning musical experience.
swim-up bar. But as it’s October and the water is a little chilly, the warmest pool here is the busiest, with one lane sectioned off for serious swimming and double sunbeds over the water on the other side for those who’d rather watch.
One day we take the twisty mountain road up to a clifftop vantage point at Es Colomer, with fabulous sweeping views of the island. We admire the keen cyclists cruising up the steep slopes – they certainly didn’t appear to have overindulged in a hotel buffet like I had.
All that swimming builds up appetites and the food here is fantastic. The main buffet restaurant has enough pancakes, pizza and pasta to keep even our daughter happy, along with a good variety of Spanish favourites like Paella and fish. There are several a la carte restaurants too – Italian, Japanese, Mediterranean – and a bistro grill. And there is plenty to keep the children happy – a playground, entertainment such as mini discos in the afternoons, a mini golf course and a basketball court / football pitch.
Most ground floor rooms have the swim-up pool feature, while the top floor suites have hot tubs. Water is a common theme in our hotel, perfect for a Mediterranean island known for the aqua sea surrounding it – I count at least 12 swimming pools. For children, there’s a pirate-themed pool with water slides and another with a ‘wet bubble’ in the middle, to climb and bounce off, which opens out into the biggest pool here with a
We may have arrived at night but we departed in the morning – just time for a final trip to the breakfast buffet. Victoria and her family were guests of Zafiro Palace Alcudia, Mallorca.
Belfast’s Stories of Giants and Shipwrecks If your children are anything like mine, at some point they will become obsessed with all things Titanic, writes Catherine Lawler.
On board our eight-hour ferry ride from Birkenhead to Belfast, the questions started again. “What if we sink?” “Can we all get on the same lifeboat?” “Will we see any icebergs?” Happily it was a smooth crossing with no iceberg sightings. It’s a long time on a ferry though, when a flight takes just 45 minutes, but this did give the children time to watch a couple of Star Wars films in the cinema and waste some pocket money in the arcade. It’s almost 110 years since RMS Titanic sank, yet interest in the ill-fated ship remains high. There are many Titanic exhibitions all over the world, but none as impressive as the one in Belfast, where it was designed, built and launched. A family ticket costs £48 (children under five are free) and you can easily spend a few hours going around the interactive galleries and exploring the sights, sounds, smells and stories. As with anything we do, the gift shop is of vital importance to my children. And there is a lot of Titanic merchandise, some of which seems almost comical – I’m not sure why you would want Titanic boxer shorts but they are there if you do! We did buy some Titanic fudge and the obligatory fridge magnet though. Afterwards we caught a ‘bendy bus’ into the city centre for a wander around. It is best to book ahead for drinks or meals, as many places were booked up, but we found a lovely gastro pub, Sweet Afton, that served superb meals and, for my husband, a good pint of Guinness.
We were blessed with one dry sunny day during our time there, which is when we headed north to the UNESCO world heritage site, Giant’s Causeway. This was the highlight of the trip, especially when our tour guide told the boys that parts of Star Wars had been filmed at nearby Skellig Michael. It was amazing to see the thousands of hexagonal columns against the dramatic backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, and our guide brilliantly retold the story of the legendary giant Finn McCool, which really captured the boys’ attention.
Last on our ‘things to do’ list was a trip along the coast road to the seaside town of Portrush, which had all the things that kids love and adults tolerate: a busy fairground, a big wheel and amusement arcades, accompanied by big bags of candy floss and sticky rock. There is also the chance to have a family surf lesson at the beach, which means that every one of the boxes were ticked for a great family holiday. www.titanicbelfast.com www.nationaltrust.org.uk/giants-causeway
Titanic Musem, Belfast & (above) Giant’s Causeway and a family dinner out
We stayed in a hotel in County Antrim, just a short drive from the ferry terminal and city centre, not least because of its delicious full Irish breakfasts and swimming pool. The weather was pretty mixed during our week away. But there are loads of things to do with children whatever the weather – including indoor skydiving, a visit to the Ulster Museum and the Andersonstown Indoor Aqua Park, with its high speed water slide and surf simulator.
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WYTHENSHAWE SENSORY ROOM OFFERS THERAPY FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Benchill Community Centre in Wythenshawe has a special sensory room with a stimulating but calming atmosphere – so an overactive child can be calmed down and an inactive one can become more alert. Created especially for children and adults with special needs, this lovely therapeutic space has a relaxing atmosphere, which is good for the emotional health of its visitors and gives them an opportunity to explore their feelings. It can also help with the development of language and coordination skills. The sensory room is big enough for up to three children and two parents or carers, depending on what their specific requirements are. Lights and sounds play a big part in this room, with a light projector and fibre optic curtain. There is an aromatherapy diffuser, a waterbed, padded flooring and an infinity tunnel available. Sensory rooms such as this provide a wide range of benefits to a wide range of people, but they are particularly useful for people with sight or hearing problems and have been proven to be beneficial to people with autism. Benchill Community Centre is on Benchill Road, Wythenshawe, Manchester M22 8EJ and it’s open from Monday to Friday. To book the sensory room for a single visit or recurring sessions, please call the centre on 0161 946 9520. There’s a small fee for a 30-minute or one-hour session, with no charge for parents or carers. www.benchillcommunitycentre.co.uk
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GE T ! PA U 8- LL-O PU
FIND 7 DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE DOGS
FIND 7 DIFFERENCES IN THIS SNOWY SCENE
Answers on page 19
19
Find 7 Differences (pages14 & 15)
Unscramble the Letters (page 20) FWKSOEALN = SNOWFLAKE FCRAS = SCARF EIC TASEK = ICE SKATE KIS = SKI NSAWONM = SNOWMAN
KIDS’ PUZZLE SOLUTIONS
Answers on page 19
WHY HAMSTERS CAN MAKE GREAT PETS When it comes to choosing a family pet, hamsters are always a popular option because they’re cute, inexpensive, and relatively easy to look after. Here is a quick guide to the humble hamster.
Cost: Hamsters cost around £10 each or so. The cage usually costs more than the pet, and you’ll need food too. Cleanliness: Hamsters love to keep themselves clean, and will spend hours grooming themselves. They’ll also very quickly begin to mark out their cage, with a designated corner for the toilet and a routine of organising, working and playing. The cage will need to be cleaned out regularly, with fresh sawdust and bedding. Independence: Hamsters prefer to live by themselves, and will probably fight or mate when put together. They usually love to be handled by people, if you get them used to it when they’re young (but biting is also possible). Storing food: Hamsters are fanatical about storing their food, and will carefully move it in their cheeks to a particular area of the cage for safekeeping. Life expectancy: Hamsters have a relatively modest lifespan of between two and three years, although they can live longer
night. Which is why having a hamster in the bedroom may not be the best idea. A new ‘flying saucer’ design of exercise equipment for hamsters is becoming popular now, and is thought to be better than a wheel for the animal’s spinal health.
Exercise: Hamsters are nocturnal creatures, and they can keep busy climbing, moving things around, spinning on their wheels and rustling around all through the
Doing our best to keep hamsters in good health means cleaning the cage regularly and giving them a good supply of fresh and dried food and fresh water. If we do that, we give them the best chance of a happy, active healthy life.
TULIPS AND THE POWER OF PATIENCE
CAN YOU REHOME AN ANIMAL IN NEED?
November and December are good months to plant tulip bulbs outside on a patio or balcony, or straight into the ground if it isn’t frozen. They need to be spaced a few centimetres apart in some compost, at a depth of two or three times the bulbs’ height, with their shoots facing upwards. Tulips don’t like sitting in water for too long, so make sure there’s good drainage (for example, put stones or gravel over the hole in the bottom of a pot).
Earlier this year, the Pet Food Manufacturers Association (PFMA) reported that 3.2 million households in the UK had acquired a pet since the start of the pandemic. Almost two thirds of the new owners were aged between 16 and 34, and over half had children living at home. 74% said that their new pet had helped with their mental health through the pandemic. However the study also raised animal welfare concerns.
Water the bulbs when you first plant them, but then you can leave them alone outside to look after themselves over winter. They prefer to be in a sunny spot if possible. Tulips come in lots of beautiful colours, and growing them from bulbs gives children an excellent lesson in patience, as they won’t flower until March, April or May.
If you are able to adopt or foster an animal in need of a home, the RSPCA has a page on its website where you can search by postcode and find out what is available near you. You can also select the type of animal you are looking for, including dogs, cats, reptiles, rabbits, fish and ponies. www.rspca.org.uk/findapet 21
≥ CHRISTMAS CONCERTS CONCERTS AT THE BRIDGEWATER HALL, MANCHESTER
SUNDAY 12 DECEMBER, 11AM
CHRISTMAS FAMILY CONCERT Join this musical adventure packed with Christmas orchestral favourites, elvish magic, ice spells, and mischievous trolls who can’t juggle! The concert will include the themes from the films Elf and ET, Trepak from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, Sleigh Ride and many more!
WEDNESDAY 22 DECEMBER, 4PM THURSDAY 23 DECEMBER, 11AM AND 1.30PM
THE SNOWMAN & HAIRY MACLARY
SCREENING WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without settling down in front of Raymond Briggs’ classic animated film, The Snowman. Bring everyone to watch whilst the Hallé performs Howard Blake’s magical score live, including a chorister singing ‘Walking in the Air’. In the first half, join Hairy Maclary from Donaldson’s Dairy as he goes ‘out of the gate and off for a walk’! The lovable canine rogue meets the orchestra in these brilliant new settings, bringing together music, rhyme and Lynley Dodd’s captivating illustrations. This is truly an unmissable family treat.
0161 907 9000 | www.halle.co.uk/christmas
PANTOMIMES & FAMILY SHOWS Oh how we missed the delights of live theatre last year. So it is with great pleasure that we bring you our round-up of the pantomimes and family shows going on this Christmas. As always, please check details and buy your tickets in advance, and keep an eye on the websites just in case details change. 24 – 28 November GANGSTA GRANNY The David Walliams story on stage. Opera House Manchester www.atgtickets.com 24 November – 16 January THE WIZ: THE SUPER SOUL MUSICAL ‘WIZARD OF OZ’ A re-telling of the classic children’s story The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Hope Mill Theatre, Manchester www.hopemilltheatre.co.uk 24 November – 1 January THE NOT SO UGLY SISTERS A re-telling of the Cinderella story, told from the perspective of the not-so-ugly sisters. A family theatre show presented by Wrongsemble (pictured below). Waterside Arts Centre, Sale www.watersidearts.org
3 – 5 December THE ELVES & THE SHOEMAKER The story of how two elves saved Christmas – presented by the Motley-Minded Cobblers Theatre Company (age 5+). Altrincham Garrick Theatre www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk 8 December – 15 January THE LION, THE WITCH & THE WARDROBE Step through the wardrobe into the enchanted kingdom of Narnia, and meet Lucy, Edmund, the Faun and the White Witch. The Lowry, Salford www.thelowry.com 10 December – 3 January PETER PAN The annual traditional panto returns with Peter Pan and Wendy, the Lost Boys and Captain Hook. Altrincham Garrick Theatre www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk 11 December MICKEY’S CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE Dress up and sing along to Disney songs in this colourful Christmas interactive show for kids. There are also family Christmas movies showing on 12 & 17 December. The Forum Theatre, Stockport www.theforumtheatre.co.uk
30 November – 9 January STICK MAN A touching and funny adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s book, from Freckle Productions. The Lowry, Salford www.thelowry.com 3 December – 9 January DICK WHITTINGTON Traditional fun Christmas pantomime starring Brian Capron. Join Dick Whittington and his cat as they go looking for adventure. Stockport Plaza www.stockportplaza.co.uk
11 December – 2 January ALADDIN This year’s glittering pantomime starring Alexandra Burke. Opera House Manchester www.atgtickets.com 11 December – 1 January ALADDIN Aladdin finds a magic lamp and what follows is an adventure full of fun and laughter. Buxton Opera House www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 12 December HALLÉ CHRISTMAS FAMILY CONCERT Orchestral Christmas favourites, elvish magic, ice spells and mischievous trolls. This family friendly concert will include movie
themes from Elf and ET, and music from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, Sleigh Ride and more. Bridgewater Hall, Manchester www.halle.co.uk 13 – 17 December LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD A fun show with puppets and songs, most suitable for ages 3 to 7. Waterside Arts Centre, Sale www.watersidearts.org 14 December THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL This is a film screening (not theatre) but we couldn’t resist including it because it is such a joyously timeless and brilliant Christmas movie. Starring Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy and Michael Caine. Altrincham Garrick Theatre www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk 15 – 23 December DUCKIE A fun and glitzy version of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Ugly Duckling – with a clear message of tolerance and self-acceptance, identity and belonging. HOME Manchester www.homemcr.org 18 – 31 December LITTLE PENGUIN’S FIRST CHRISTMAS An immersive theatrical experience for babies aged 0-36 months. The Lowry, Salford www.thelowry.com 22 – 23 December THE SNOWMAN & HAIRY MACLARY Hear three short stories with words, illustrations and music. Then watch The Snowman movie, while the Hallé orchestra plays the score and a chorister sings Walking in the Air. Bridgewater Hall, Manchester www.halle.co.uk 5 – 8 January PETER PAN This year’s high-energy pantomime, with a talented cast aged between 8 and 18 from the Cheshire Youth Pantomime Society (CHYPS). The Evans Theatre, Wilmslow www.chypspanto.com 23
Stagecoach Altrincham Singing, dancing and acting classes forr 4 - 18 year-olds www.stagecoach.co.uk 07904 451199 Bowden Preparatory , WA14 2LT
Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.
Continued ... 5 – 12 January PINOCCHIO The story of Pinocchio – performed by the young stars of Prestbury Youth Pantomime. MADS Little Theatre, Macclesfield www.ticketsource.co.uk 7 – 16 January ALADDIN This panto from Sale Nomads Theatre Club will brighten up the new year. Waterside Arts Centre, Sale www.watersidearts.org 8 February PINOCCHIO A lonely carpenter brings the mischievous Pinocchio to life. A 40-minute children’s ballet (age 3+) presented by Northern Ballet. Buxton Opera House www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 18 – 19 Feb PEPPA PIG’S BEST DAY EVER Peppa is going out with George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig (this production is also coming to Buxton Opera House in May). Opera House Manchester www.atgtickets.com
YOUTH PANTO GROUP MOVES TO WILMSLOW
Cheshire Youth Pantomime Society (CHYPS) was formed in 2007 and puts on a pantomime for local children every January. This year the group is moving from Woodford to the Evans Theatre at Wilmslow Leisure Centre, with a new musical production of Peter Pan.
and awarded ‘Best Youth Theatre Production’ by the Greater Manchester Drama Federation – it’s a testament to the talent and hard work of our young cast to be given such a prestigious accolade.”
Director Sally Hunt said: “I can’t tell you how pleased we are to be able to re-start CHYPS and get all our amazing youngsters back on stage. CHYPS provides such a fantastic opportunity for teenagers to develop their skills. Missing a year because of the pandemic has been really hard for them, but they have bounced back and we are really enjoying rehearsals.
Peter Pan runs from 5 – 8 January. Tickets at www.chypspanto.com
“We were so pleased that our production of Aladdin in January 2020 was nominated for ‘Best Pantomime’
L to R: Tilly Holah (Tinkerbell), Ollie Lugo (Peter Pan), Lois Hinds (Wendy) and Adam Byrne (Captain Hook).
Sally said: “Peter Pan is a classic children’s story, and great fun in pantomime form. We have all the CHYPS is a youth organisation classic aspects of panto: a dame, with a cast ranging from 11 to 18 years old. Its members are talented a silly double act, corny jokes, comedy slapstick and a ‘behind actors, singers and dancers from you’ scene. The cast love it and schools in Wilmslow, Macclesfield we know the audience will too.” and across south Manchester.
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BABY & TODDLER DIARY
Community baby and toddler groups are so important – an opportunity for parents and carers to chat and connect with other people, and a safe place for children to play and socialise. Having shut their doors during lockdown, some groups some have now restarted, while others are staying closed for the time being. We’ve done some research and discovered that the groups listed below are now meeting again. Because of the pandemic, plans can change quickly and there may be some pre-booking systems in place or limitations on numbers, so please try and check ahead before you head out. Most groups run in term time only, and they cost very little (or nothing) to attend. Please do tell us about any other local community baby and toddler groups that you know about that aren’t included, so that we may include them next time.
MONDAY
TUESDAY
9.30am – 10.45am & 11am – 12.15pm: Trinity Toddlers, Trinity Church, Massie St, CHEADLE SK8 1BB www.trinity-cheadle.org
9.15am – 10.40am: Marlborough Minis, Marlborough Primary School, Tytherington Drive, MACCLESFIELD SK10 2HJ www.marlborough.cheshire.sch.uk
9.30am – 11.30am: Playaway Toddler Group, Poynton Baptist Church, 22 Park Lane, POYNTON SK12 1RD www.pbc.org.uk
1.15pm – 2.45pm: Parents and Tots, Saint Albans Church, Parish Centre, Hall Street, MACCLESFIELD SK10 3AA www.stalbanmacc.org.uk
10am – 11.30am: Seedlings Parents & Toddlers, Hazel Grove Baptist Church, Station Street, HAZEL GROVE SK7 4EX (also Tuesdays) www.hgbc.org.uk
10am – 11.30am: Seedlings Parents & Toddlers, Hazel Grove Baptist Church, Station Street, HAZEL GROVE SK7 4EX (also Mondays) www.hgbc.org.uk
10.30am – 12pm: Parent & Toddler Group (ages 0 – 5) ALTRINCHAM Methodist Church, Barrington Road WA14 1HF (also Thursdays) www.altrincham-methodist.org.uk
10am – 11.30am: Active Angels Toddler Group, Bramhall St. Michael’s Church, St Michaels Ave, BRAMHALL SK7 2PG www.bramhall.church
Rugbytots is the world’s favourite rugby play programme. Dynamic, fun, structured play sessions for toddlers and young children are held at Macclesfield Leisure Centre, Bollington Civic Hall and Poynton Civic Hall. Classes are tailored for children aged 2—3.5, 3.5—5 and 5—7 years old.
Tumble Tots is the UK’s leading physical play programme for children aged 6 months to 7 years. Come along and see your child build their ‘skills for life’, developing co-ordination, balance, climbing and everything in between. Classes run between Monday and Friday at Wilmslow and Macclesfield Leisure Centres.
Tennis Tykes is a unique tennis play and coaching programme for children aged 2 to 8 in Cheshire and South Manchester. Classes help children develop their ball skills, coordination, agility and balance. It also helps them with their social interaction, language, confidence and listening skills. See website for timetable.
www.tumbletots.com/macclesfield
www.tennistykes.co.uk Call Caroline on 07843 342662
10am – 11am: 9.15 – 11am: Prestbury Mums & Tots, Rhyme Time (songs, play and chat), Prestbury Village Hall, Macclesfield Poynton Methodist Church, Road SK10 4BW POYNTON SK12 1RB www.prestburyvillagehall.co.uk www.poyntonmethodist.org
www.rugbytots.co.uk Call Alick on 0345 313 6720 Email alick@rugbytots.co.uk
Facebook: rugbytotssecheshire
Call Megan on 07814 020 095
Facebook: tumbletotsmacclesfield
10am – 12pm: ABC Toddler Group (ages 0 – 3), The Hub Community Centre, ALTRINCHAM Baptist Church, Pownall Road WA14 2SZ – please check availability (0161) 941 2018 (also Wed & Thu) www.ourhub.org 9.45am – 11.15am: Woodlands Baby & Toddlers, ALTRINCHAM United Reformed Church, Woodlands Parkway, Timperley WA15 7QT (also Fridays) www.altrinchamurc.org.uk 10am – 12pm: Tuesday Tots, The Marquee, St Phillips and St James Church, Alderley Edge SK9 7UZ (pre-book) www.stphilipandstjames.co.uk 9.30am – 11am: Butterflies, Chelford Primary School, Oak Rd, CHELFORD SK11 9AY www.chelford.cheshire.sch.uk 10.30am – 11am: Storytime, Olive ROC Centre & Café, 88-90 Castle Street, Edgeley, STOCKPORT SK3 9AL www.oliveroccentre.org.uk
caroline.buncall@tennistykes.co.uk
Our Pathway to your child’s success The unique Wilmslow Prep Pathway allows us to prepare your child to move on to the secondary school that is right for them. The Pathway has been designed by our expert team to structure our educational provision throughout your child’s school career, enabling them to fulfil their potential by the time they leave us at 11. Small class sizes, specialist teachers and dedicated and tailored teaching allows us to incorporate key elements of the national curriculum but takes learning well beyond these boundaries.
If your child would benefit from our focused approach, please get in touch by calling 01625 524246 or email admissions@wilmslowprep.co.uk Tours available throughout the week. www.wilmslowprep.co.uk
BABY & TODDLER DIARY 10am – 12pm: Tuesday Tots, The Marquee, St Phillips & St James Church, ALDERLEY EDGE SK9 7UZ (pre-book). www.stphilipandstjames.co.uk
10am – 12pm: ABC Toddler Group (ages 0 – 3), The Hub Community Centre, ALTRINCHAM Baptist Church, Pownall Road WA14 2SZ – please check availability (0161) 941 2018 (also Tue & Wed). www.ourhub.org
9.30am – 11am: Butterflies, Chelford CE Primary School, Oak Rd, CHELFORD SK11 9AY www.chelford.cheshire.sch.uk
FRIDAY
WEDNESDAY 1pm – 3pm: Little Treasures Baby & Toddler Group, Elim Christian Life Centre, Parsonage Street, MACCLESFIELD SK11 7GY www.elimclcmacc.org.uk 10am – 11am: Baby Chat – please bring a mat and some toys if possible. Bramhall Methodist Church, 23 Bramhall Lane South, BRAMHALL SK7 1AL www.bramhallmethodists.org.uk 10.30am – 11.45am: Toddlers (pre-schoolers): Cheadle Hulme Methodist Church, Ramilies Ave, CHEADLE HULME SK8 7AL www.chmc.org.uk
10.30am: Tiddlywinks, Wilmslow Methodist Church, Kings Close, Water Lane, WILMSLOW www.wilmslowmethodists.org.uk 9.30am – 11.30am: Jolly Tots, Knutsford Methodist Church, Princess Street, KNUTSFORD WA16 6BY www.kmc.org.uk
THURSDAY
9.30am – 11.30am: Toddler Group (please bring a mat and some toys). Poynton Methodist 10am – 12pm: Church Hall, POYNTON SK12 1RB ABC Toddler Group (ages 0 – 3), The Hub Community Centre, ALTRIN- www.poyntonmethodist.org CHAM Baptist Church, Pownall Road WA14 2SZ – please check availability 10.30am – 11.45am: Baby Chat (up to 12 months / before (0161) 941 2018 (also Tue & Thu) walking), Cheadle Hulme Methodist www.ourhub.org Church, Ramilies Ave, CHEADLE HULME SK8 7AL 10.30am: www.chmc.org.uk Tiddlywinks, Wilmslow Methodist Church, Kings Close, Water Lane, 10.30am – 12pm: WILMSLOW Parent & Toddler Group (ages 0 – 5) wilmslowmethodists.org.uk ALTRINCHAM Methodist Church, Barrington Road WA14 1HF (also 9.30am – 11.30am: Mondays) Jolly Tots, Knutsford Methodist www.altrincham-methodist.org.uk Church, Princess Street, KNUTSFORD WA16 6BY 10am – 11.30am: Oasis Baby & Todwww.kmc.org.uk dler Group, St. John’s Baptist Church, KNUTSFORD WA16 6DH (pre-book) 12.45pm – 2.15pm: Just for Dads (for Dads, Grandads & www.stjohnsknutsford.org.uk male carers with children aged 0 – 4), 9.30am – 11.30am: Guywood Centre, Guywood Lane, Little Fishes Toddler Group, St Chad’s Church Romiley, St. Paul’s Church, St. Paul’s Road, STOCKPORT SK6 4AN. Heaton Moor, STOCKPORT SK4 Call Vicky on 07745 862557 4RY, book on (0161) 432 3431 www.stchadsromiley.co.uk www.stpaulsheatonmoor.org.uk 9.30 – 10.30am & 11am – 12pm: 10am – 11.30am: Prampushers, Guywood Centre, Oasis Baby & Toddler Group, St. Guywood Lane, St Chad’s Church John’s Baptist Church, KNUTSFORD Romiley, STOCKPORT SK6 4AN. WA16 6DH (pre-book). Call Vicky on 07745 862557 www.stjohnsknutsford.org.uk stchadsromiley.co.uk
10.30am – 11.45am: Wobblers (crawling to 24 months),CHEADLE HULME Methodist Church, Ramilies Ave, SK8 7AL www.chmc.org.uk 9.30am – 11am: Little Fishes Baby & Toddler Group, Emmanuel Church Centre, Bruntwood Lane, CHEADLE HULME SK8 6BE www.emmanuelch.co.uk 9.45am – 11.15am: Woodlands Baby & Toddlers (from birth to school age) Altrincham United Reformed Church, Woodlands Parkway, TIMPERLEY WA15 7QT (also Tuesdays) www.altrinchamurc.org.uk 9am – 11.30am: Fun 4 Tots Group, Benchill Community Centre, Benchill Road, WYTHENSHAWE Manchester M22 8EJ
www.benchillcommunitycentre.co.uk 10am – 12pm: Tiny Hands (babies to preschool), St Mary’s Methodist Church, Wilmslow Road, HANDFORTH SK9 3LF (pre-book) www.stmaryshandforth.weebly.com 9.30am – 11am: Toddle Time, St Matthews Church, Grenville St, Edgeley STOCKPORT SK3 9EE
www.edgeleyandcheadleheath.org.uk
SATURDAY 10.30am – 12pm: Just for Dads (for Dads, Grandads & male carers with children aged 0 – 4), Guywood Centre, Guywood Lane, St Chad’s Church Romiley, STOCKPORT SK6 4AN Call Vicky on 07745 862557. www.stchadsromiley.co.uk 29
SCHOOL NEWS BUSY WEEK AT STOCKPORT GRAMMAR
First Year pupils at Stockport Grammar had an action-packed start to the academic year, exploring some of the co-curricular opportunities on offer, making new friends and getting to know their teachers. The first week was rounded off with the Lower School Activities Fair, where pupils were encouraged to find an activity they liked or were interested in trying, and signing up for it. The wide range of activities in the programme includes sport, music, drama and more. The pupils then went to the annual residential trip to Ilam Youth Hostel in the Peak District, where they visited Chatsworth House, went hiking around Dovedale and took part in games and activities to develop teamwork. First Year pupil, Alexis Atenyam said: “I really enjoyed the residential to Ilam, it was a lot of fun and I now know more people in my year and made new friends. We did lots of activities, I especially enjoyed the evening quiz and the trip to the Heights of Abraham in cable cars which was scary but amazing.”
SMALL CLASSES A BIG DEAL AT WPS
One of the things that makes Wilmslow Preparatory School special is its small class sizes. Each child gets the attention they deserve, and each child is treated as an individual with their own personal targets to work towards. Teachers can adapt their classes to suit their pupils’ different learning styles, ensuring that all the children stay engaged and understand what is being taught. Teachers also have the time to individualise their feedback for each child, ensuring that each pupil understands the material and gets the help needed to reach his or her full potential. Because of the small number of pupils, classes at Wilmslow Prep become a close community. Children can connect more closely with their peers and become more confident and comfortable when it comes to sharing their thoughts and ideas. These important connections lead to lasting friendships. In addition, all the teachers know all the children throughout the school very well, providing a very cohesive community and a positive learning environment.
KING’S PUPILS WIN SCIENCE COMPETITION
Four pupils from the King’s School have won prizes in a national science competition which was part of the UK Festival of Robotics. Emily Potter (Year 4) won the ‘Once Upon a Robot’ writing competition with her story ‘Lenny Lifts Christmas’. Her prize was a robot and an illustrated printed copy of her story. Runner up was Alex Price (Year 7), who wrote about an imaginary robot called Alexus. Tehmina Walker (Year 2) won the ‘Draw a Robot’ competition, with a recycling robot that was able to turn off lights and taps, recycle plastic and paper and clean up litter. The runner-up prize went to Edward Marsden-Smith (Year 3), whose design had a trowel and fork for hands, recycled food waste into compost in its mouth and converted old plastic into plant pots and other reusable household essentials. Tehmina, Emily and Edward
MENTAL HEALTH INITIATIVES AT AESG Alderley Edge School for Girls has been recognised for its mental health and wellbeing support for students and staff, by being shortlisted for an award from the national Independent Schools Association. AESG was named as a finalist in the category for ‘Excellence and Innovation in Mental Health and Wellbeing’, in recognition of their forward-thinking and proactive approach to both pupil and staff wellbeing throughout the last academic year.
The school put in place several innovative projects throughout the pandemic to help support pupils and staff to be more resilient, reduce anxiety levels and promote a positive work life balance. Initiatives included ‘heritage days’, virtual birthday parties, yoga sessions and online weekly assemblies. The school used the ‘My Happy Mind’ and ‘Twinkle’ programmes to introduce students to the importance of mental health and wellbeing, and participated in Mental Health Awareness Week and Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week.
WHAT COP26 TAUGHT ME ABOUT DINOSAURS Most children, including mine, find dinosaurs endlessly fascinating. But I never know what to say when they ask me what happened to them. Why aren’t dinosaurs stomping around anymore, nibbling on trees and chasing small mammals? asks Daisy Dorothy. I discovered the truth during the recent COP26 UN Climate Change Conference, when terrifying facts like “we are on the brink of a sixth mass extinction, and it’s all because of human activity” were being thrown around. What does this even mean? A quick dig into the Natural History Museum website tells me that extinction is a normal part of life on earth – but that’s okay because when a plant or animal disappears, its role in the eco-system is usually filled by a new or existing species. However, a ‘mass extinction’ is very different – this is what happens when species vanish faster than they are replaced. This is not okay, especially when we humans are to blame. So here’s a quick summary of the first five mass extinctions that scientists know about:
443 million years ago In the Ordovician-Silurian mass extinction, there was a drop in sea levels as glaciers formed, and then a rise as they melted. Death to 60% of marine species types and approximately 85% of all species on the planet as it was then.
374 million years ago The Devonian mass extinction was when 75% of the world’s species (especially marine invertebrates) snuffed it, for reasons unknown.
250 million years ago
The Permian mass extinction was the biggest and most apocalyptic one that scientists know about, wiping out 95% of all species on the planet including plants, insects and vertebrates. Some scientists reckon an asteroid hit the earth, creating enough dust to block out the sun, or perhaps a large volcanic explosion made the oceans toxic. Either way, it was devastating.
200 million years ago The Triassic mass extinction happened when rivers of lava erupted and led to all sorts of land mass
rearrangements, including the formation of the Atlantic Ocean. Global warming may have resulted and umpteen creatures perished, including many types of dinosaur.
65 million years ago Quite recently as it turns out, a giant asteroid hit the earth and caused the Cretaceous mass extinction, which killed off the rest of the dinosaurs and a whole slew of other marine and land vertebrate species (78% in all). Aha, so now I know. www.natgeokids.com/uk www.nhm.ac.uk/discover
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