For Parents & Carers in Northeast Cheshire & South Manchester
AVAILABLE FOR HOME DELIVERY BY POST COLOURING PAGES & PUZZLES THE GLOBAL PHENOMENON OF PARKRUN SUMMER READING CHALLENGE DAYS OUT & EVENTS THEATRE & FAMILY SHOWS
Issue 82 • Summer 2022
‘EXCELLENT ’ IN ALL AREAS - ISI Inspection 2022
Whole School Open Day Saturday 8 October Infants & Juniors: 9am–1pm | Seniors & Sixth Form: 10am–2pm • Stunning new £60m, 80-acre campus in Prestbury
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Please scan the QR code, right, or go to www. kingsmac.co.uk/newsevents/open-events/ open-day to book to attend the Open Day.
• Excellent GCSE & A-Level results • Unrivalled extra-curricular programme • 11+ & Sixth Form Bursaries & Scholarships available
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WELCOME TO THE SUMMER 2022 ISSUE
Dear Reader,
Welcome to the Summer 2022 issue of Little Tigers Magazine. As always, we start with as many of the fun family-friendly events we can find in and around northeast Cheshire and south Manchester. We also have a page of theatre shows, with some of Cheshire’s county shows and countryside fairs following on page 19. There is a pull-out kids’ puzzle and colouring page section in the middle, which could help you keep your young one(s) occupied for a while, and the solutions are on page 15. Money (or lack of it) is a hot topic at the moment, so we have shared some useful resources, some wise words about budgeting from Martin Lewis, and low-cost recipe ideas from Jack Monroe. Other features include the worldwide phenomenon of Parkrun (happening free every weekend at a venue near you), the summer reading challenge, and some friendly gardening advice from Alan Titchmarsh. Stay safe, and I hope you have a lovely summer.
CONTENTS Pages 5-7
Days Out & Events
Page 9
Theatre & Family Shows
Page 10
The Worldwide Phenomenon of Parkrun (with local listings)
Pages 11-14 4-page Kids’ Activity Pull-out section Page 15 The Stress and Strain of Family Finances — Wise Words in Tough Times Page 17
The Summer Reading Challenge
Page 19
Cheshire’s Summer County Shows and Countryside Fairs
Alison Stodolnic
Page 21 Gardening Advice from one of the Gardening Greats
Founder and Editor
Pages 22-23
The Baby & Toddler Diary
Would you like to run your own business? I am looking for someone new to run Little Tigers Magazine. This is a fantastic opportunity if you dream of working for yourself. Do you have the vision to take on an established independent publishing business, and drive it forward into the digital age? The Little Tigers brand has been loved and respected since it was created 21 years ago, and its new owner will ideally be based in Cheshire or Manchester. You don’t need any particular experience, although a background in marketing, journalism or online publishing would be useful. Starting up Little Tigers changed my life when I was at home with young children. It enabled me to set my own flexible working hours and earn some money, and I really enjoyed being able to support the local parenting community. To arrange an informal chat about the possibility of buying the business, please email Alison at editor@littletigers.co.uk.
The Team: A big thank you to writers / researchers Daisy Dorothy and Bea Jones, Iwan our driver, our printers Buxton Press, Simon our website guy, all our 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 (2022). 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.
“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/
DAYS OUT & EVENTS
Most places have now opened up again, so there are plenty of events coming up this summer. Please double check before you go, as details can change and sometimes you need to pre-book. We have compiled theatre shows separately on page 9, and countryside fairs are on page 19.
Wednesday afternoons SUMMER FAMILY ACTIVITIES Head to Congleton to play self-led family games and try archery on Wednesday afternoons. You can also follow trails through the gardens, explore the Tudor house and buy pre-loved children’s books. LITTLE MORETON HALL www.nationaltrust.org.uk Now until February 2023 FAIRY TALES A special event for families and carers with children aged 0 to 8. Play, interactive exhibits and storytelling. Featuring giants, gingerbread houses, magic beans and the 3 bears. Z-ARTS, HULME www.z-arts.org Daily throughout the holidays POWER UP Play video games from the last five decades and try 100 different consoles. Including Sonic, Pacman, Minecraft and Mario. MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY, MANCHESTER www.msimanchester.org.uk Throughout the summer LET’S PLAY AT QUARRY BANK A large-scale play installation at the Mill Meadow, with a look-out point to observe the natural environment. QUARRY BANK MILL, WILMSLOW www.nationaltrust.org.uk Throughout the year WATER-BASED ACTIVITIES Rudyard Lake is worth visiting at any time for boat rides, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, cycling, sailing, walking and steam train rides. RUDYARD LAKE www.rudyardlake.com Daily at 1pm CHILDREN AND WAR What’s it like to be caught up in a war as a child? Evacuees, refugees and combatants share their experiences in the big picture show. An immersive 360-degree multimedia experience. IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM NORTH, STRETFORD www.iwm.org.uk Throughout 2022 SUPERWORM TRAIL Buy a Superworm trail pack, which
includes a superhero mask, stickers and an activity sheet, and follow the one-mile trail through the forest. DELAMERE FOREST, CHESHIRE www.forestryengland.uk /delamere-forest 17 July, 11am – 4pm DIDSBURY FAMILY FUN DAY A free event including a fun run, crazy golf, bouncy castle, penalty shoot-out and lots of food and drink. Organised by the Beaver Road School PTA. DIDSBURY SPORT GROUND Now until 20 July MOG’S REMARKABLE ADVENTURES Based on Judith Kerr’s children’s book Mog the Forgetful Cat. Follow the cat-themed trail around the Dunham Massey National Trust park and gardens. DUNHAM MASSEY, ALTRINCHAM www.nationaltrust.org.uk 23 July – 5 August NICKELODEON EXPERIENCE An immersive adventure based on favourite Nickelodeon TV shows (suitable for children aged 7 to 14) and Nick Jr (ages 2 to 6). HEATON PARK, STOCKPORT www.thenickelodeonexperience.co.uk 23 & 24 July, 12pm – 4pm KITES AT THE CAGE Bring your own kite (or buy one there) and join in this big kite-flying event. You can also get creative, explore the house and run around the grounds. LYME PARK, DISLEY www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lyme 23 & 24 July, 10am – 5pm MEDIEVAL WEEKEND Step back in time to Medieval England and meet characters from the past. A fun day out for the family. BEESTON CASTLE, CHESHIRE www.english-heritage.org.uk 23 July – 7 September A FAIRYTALE SUMMER AT DUNHAM MASSEY A self-led family trail, with magical stories in the orangery, music on the lawn and characters from much loved fairy tales. DUNHAM MASSEY, ALTRINCHAM
www.nationaltrust.org.uk 24 July, various times FOXFIELD SCI-FI DAY Meet characters like Darth Vadar, Dr Who, storm troopers and R2D2, and enjoy a return steam train ride from Caverswall Road Station. FOXFIELD RAILWAY www.foxfieldrailway.co.uk 26 July – 26 August SUMMER FARM FUN Daily activities on the farm, such as sheep racing, milking demos, storytelling, and running around in the maize maze. There are also food-making activities on ‘Taster Tuesdays’. TATTON PARK, KNUTSFORD www.tattonpark.org.uk 28 July and throughout August FAMILY PRINTING WORKSHOPS Various workshops where you can use different materials and have fun making prints and postcards. Suitable for children aged 3+. SILK MUSEUM, MACCLESFIELD www.silkmacclesfield.org.uk 31 July WIZARDING ADVENTURE A two-hour return steam train ride from Bury Bolton Street Station to Rawtenstall, including an interactive wizarding experience for families (especially children aged 5 to 12). Take lessons in broomsticks, learn about potion-making and talk with a tawny owl. EAST LANCS RAILWAY www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk 31 July & 14 August WILD SCIENCE Meet the wild animals that live in our gardens and hedgerows, as experts tell you about their lives and how to protect them. At various times, the first session of the day is especially SEN, ADHD and autism-friendly. QUARRY BANK MILL, WILMSLOW www.nationaltrust.org.uk 2 & 3 August, 10.30am – 3.30pm CARDBOARD DINOSAURS Make and decorate your own dinosaurs at the salt museum. LION SALT WORKS www.lionsaltworks .westcheshiremuseums.co.uk
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Kids Planet
Day Nurseries
Working together to inspire your world 01925 753 448 www.kidsplanetdaynurseries.co.uk
n i re a! a e e r W ra u o y
DAYS OUT & EVENTS 3 August, 12pm HULME IS WHERE THE ART IS A free interactive children’s event including arts and crafts, music, storytelling and play. Z-ARTS, HULME www.z-arts.org
3 & 17 August FOXFIELD DINOSAUR ACADEMY A steam-powered return train ride to Dilhorne Woods with 90 minutes of entertainment and a chance to meet baby dinosaurs. FOXFIELD RAILWAY www.foxfieldrailway.co.uk 6 – 7 August DAY OUT WITH THOMAS A Thomas the Tank Engine themed return train ride from Bury Bolton Street Station to Ramsbottom. Thomas-themed stories, activities, face painting and performances. EAST LANCS RAILWAY www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk 10 & 24 August FOXFIELD WIZARD ACADEMY 90 minutes of entertainment featuring wizardry, magic and mystery, and a steam-powered return train ride to Dilhorne Woods. FOXFIELD RAILWAY www.foxfieldrailway.co.uk
19 – 21 August JUST SO FESTIVAL A family-friendly outdoor weekend with the arts at its heart. With a full programme of music, stories, theatre, comedy, creativity and fun activities. RODE HALL, CHESHIRE www.justsofestival.org.uk 25 – 26 August PEPPA PIG & FRIENDS FUN DAY A steam train ride with a Peppa Pig activity trail, face painting, a petting zoo and funfair rides. EAST LANCS RAILWAY www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk 27 – 29 August, 10am – 5pm LEGENDARY JOUST WEEKEND An exhilarating tournament of strength, skill and horsemanship. Cheer for your favourite knight on horseback as they charge at each other and demonstrate this ancient 13th century spectator sport. BEESTON CASTLE www.english-heritage.org.uk
27 – 29 August GERONIMO FESTIVAL Geronimo returns with a weekend of arts, music and family-friendly activities and entertainment. Funfair rides, zipline, workshops, monster trucks, camel racing, theatre shows and more. Day and weekend tickets available, along with camping and glamping. ARLEY HALL & GARDENS www.arleyhallandgardens.com www.geronimofest.com 2 September WIZARDING ADVENTURE A two-hour return steam train ride from Bury Bolton Street Station to Rawtenstall, including an interactive wizarding experience for families (particularly with children aged 5 to 12). Take lessons in broomsticks, learn about potion-making, and talk with a tawny owl. EAST LANCS RAILWAY www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
13 August FIREWORK CHAMPIONS Watch as 3 teams compete to win the spectacular fireworks competition, along with music, lasers and light shows. You can bring a picnic or buy food and drink at the event. ARLEY HALL & GARDENS www.arleyhallandgardens.com 14 August FUN DOG SHOW AT THE FARM Bring your dog for a fun afternoon. 10 novelty classes include waggiest tail, best biscuit catcher and best golden oldie dog (age 9+). TATTON PARK, KNUTSFORD www.tattonpark.org.uk 19 August, various times DINO ADVENTURE A two-hour return steam train ride from Bury Bolton Street Station to Rawtenstall, with dinosaur themed activities and colourful characters. EAST LANCS RAILWAY www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk Legendary jousting in August at Beeston Castle, Cheshire (photos: English Heritage)
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Unlock your child’s potential Altrincham Stagecoach Singing, dancing and acting classes forr 4 - 18 year-olds www.stagecoach.co.uk/altrincham 07904451199 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.
Creative Courage For Life®
THEATRE & FAMILY SHOWS
There are so many theatre shows and live performances for children over the summer holidays that we have listed them separately here. Please check ahead as details can change, and always buy tickets before you go as events like these often sell out in advance. 17 July WALLACE AND GROMIT A screening of the classic film Wallace & Gromit: The Wrong Trousers, accompanied by live brass band music from the WEFL Band of Stockport. STOCKPORT PLAZA www.stockportplaza.co.uk 27 July, 11am GROOVE SENSATIONS A 45-minute sensory music concert by Groove Baby, for families and carers with babies under 3 years old. Singing, dancing and playing along are encouraged. WATERSIDE ARTS CENTRE, SALE www.watersidearts.org 27 July, 1.30pm GROOVE INTO THE WOODS A high-energy, 55-minute jazz and funk music concert / theatre show for families and carers with children aged 3 to 7. WATERSIDE ARTS CENTRE, SALE www.watersidearts.org 29 July, 11.30am & 2.30pm SPLAT! A physical 45-minute comedy (with no spoken words) about two artists – one of whom is neat, one messy. Suitable for children aged 3 to 6. Accessible for deaf audiences. WATERSIDE ARTS CENTRE, SALE www.watersidearts.org
Various dates in July & August POP-UP MUSIC FESTIVALS • PRINCESS PARTY An interactive show with singing, glitter and workshops. Come dressed up as a prince or princess if you wish. • GREATEST CIRCUS SHOW Circus acts, dance, costumes and performances from around the world – all led by the ringmaster (inspired by the film The Greatest Showman). • INCREDIBLE FAMILY SHOW A show for all ages with costumes, special effects, singing and dancing. Featuring songs from The Lion King, Frozen, Mary Poppins and more. • KIDCHELLA A children’s festival, with roaming entertainers, face painting and pop star tribute acts. TATTON PARK, KNUTSFORD www.tattonpark.org.uk 17 – 20 August ALICE IN WONDERLAND Follow Alice down the rabbit hole, enjoy the Mad Hatter’s tea party and watch out for the Queen of Hearts. Presented by Twirly Productions. All tickets £5. FORUM THEATRE, STOCKPORT www.nktheatre.co.uk
18 – 20 August, 7.30pm ASTRONAUTS A thoughtful, compelling play inspired by the housing crisis, presented by the Royal Exchange Young Company. ROYAL EXCHANGE THEATRE, MANCHESTER www.royalexchange.co.uk 20 August, 10.30am & 1pm FIREMAN SAM LIVE Fireman Sam stars in an all-singing, all-dancing show – where he saves the circus from danger. BUXTON OPERA HOUSE www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk 23 – 28 August SARAH & DUCK Join Sarah and her best friend Duck as they plan a circus birthday for Scarf Lady. Based on the CBeebies TV show. THE LOWRY, SALFORD www.thelowry.com 29 August, 2pm & 4.30pm DINOSAUR ADVENTURE LIVE 65 million years in the making – an interactive show for all ages. Meet dinosaurs, learn about their history and even feed them. ALTRINCHAM GARRICK www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk
30 July – 21 August THE GRUFFALO LIVE The story of a mouse’s adventure through a forest, based on the much-loved children’s book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. THE LOWRY, SALFORD www.thelowry.com 13 August CINDERELLA In an enchanted kingdom in a far away land, magical creatures and fairy godmothers come together to tell this classic fairy tale. DUNHAM MASSEY, ALTRINCHAM www.nationaltrust.org.uk
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The Worldwide Phenomenon of PARKRUN
Many weekend activities stop over the summer, leaving Saturday and Sunday mornings feeling rather empty. So maybe this is a good time to try a Parkrun? FREE community events that take place every weekend. Parkruns are free, weekly events where participants run, jog or walk a 5k route at their own pace. It began in 2004 and has grown into a global phenomenon, with events happening in countries all around the world, including Japan, Australia, Singapore and South Africa.
The 5k events take place in parks, along beaches, on woodland trails and other outside spaces. The participants are timed, but there is no time limit and it is not a race (lots of people walk or partly walk the route). Although you will always see the more experienced runners take off at speed and try to beat their own As an inclusive, non-profit organisation, personal bests. Parkrun relies on its volunteers to plan and run events. Roles include marshal, timekeeper and tail-walker, and there is some setting up to do beforehand and tidying up after. The people who volunteer regularly find that they make new friends, develop a sense of belonging, and feel inspired to live a more active outdoor life. THERE ARE 773 PARKRUNS IN THE UK, INCLUDING: Bramhall Park, BRAMHALL Bruntwood Park, CHEADLE SK8 1HX Fletcher Moss Park, DIDSBURY Lyme Park, DISLEY SK12 2NR South Park, MACCLESFIELD SK11 8AD + Sunday junior Parkrun at Victoria Park SK10 1LT Brabyns Park, MARPLE + Sunday junior Parkrun at the same venue Carey Park, NORTHWICH CW9 5LQ SOUTH MANCHESTER, Platts Field Park M14 6LA + Sunday junior Parkrun at the same venue Sale Water Park, SALE M33 2LX Burnage Parkrun, Varley Park, STOCKPORT Woodbank Memorial Park, STOCKPORT The Carrs Park, WILMSLOW SK9 4AA + Sunday junior Parkrun at the same venue Wythenshawe Park, WYTHENSHAWE M23 0AB 10
Parkrun happens on Saturday mornings at 9am, and children can take part in the 5k events if they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. Some towns and cities also have 2k junior Parkruns that take place at 9am on Sunday mornings for children aged 4 to 14. Some courses are suitable for pushchairs – please check the website beforehand. You need to complete the free registration process in advance to get a barcode (which you must bring every time you take part), and after that you can turn up and do a Parkrun anywhere in the world, whenever you feel like it, without the need to book. www.parkrun.org.uk
Kids Sudoku
Unscramble Ingredients 1. GEG……………. 2. FLORU……………. 3. TRBTUE……………. 4. GSUAR……………. 5. KMLI…………….
The Stress and Strain of Family Finances — Wise Words in Tough Times A toxic brew of world events has led to a squeeze on household finances, with prices going up everywhere, eye-wateringly high fuel costs and utility bills, and rising interest rates. People everywhere are trying to earn more, spend less, and do whatever they can to make ends meet. The Citizens Advice Service is very busy everywhere at the moment. Their website has lots of information on topics including housing, work, benefits, debt, health and family matters. If you are really struggling you can chat with an advisor online, call the advice line, or enter your postcode to contact your local office. www.citizensadvice.org.uk Money saving expert and consumer champion Martin Lewis publishes a range of information on his website www.moneysavingexpert.com including comparison tables, articles, tips and calculators to help with the financial squeeze. He is a strong advocate of knowing your budget – so that you can keep track of all your incomings and outgoings, and deal with any cash shortfall before it becomes a crisis – so there is a free budgeting tool on his website too. Martin says: “The biggest problem people have is that they look across the month at what they typically pay for things, like food bills, utilities, mortgage, car lease and all those things. But the average family in the UK spends £600 on Christmas, which is £50 a month. They buy a television, that is £300. They go on holiday, and so on. Rarely are these costs factored into monthly spend. We need to break down these
Consumer champion, money saving expert and budgeting advocate Martin Lewis
amounts into monthly costs, across the whole year, and add it to our monthly figures.”
ing difficult times and had only £10 per week to feed herself and her young son, she went on a mission to find the cheapest ingredients Martin advises people to use a possible in the supermarket ‘basics’ system called ‘piggybanking’, where ranges. She created recipes for you put money aside each month people with very low budgets – for for different things, including one-off example vegetable curry for 30p per purchases, Christmas and holidays, portion – and published them in her so that the money is there when you cook books called A Girl called Jack need it. and Cooking on a Bootstrap. Meanwhile, author, journalist and antipoverty campaigner Jack Monroe has created a growing collection of healthy affordable recipes for people on low incomes. When she was fac-
You can access lots of excellent and affordable recipes for free on her website www.jackmonroe.com and there are more on BBC Food www.bbc.co.uk/food/chefs/jack_monroe
KIDS’ PUZZLE SOLUTIONS Unscramble the Colours
Unscramble the Ingredients
RED
EGG
PINK ORANGE
BLUE GREEN PURPLE
FLOUR BUTTER
SUGAR MILK
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Summer Reading Challenge 2022 The Summer Reading Challenge has returned for 2022. Designed to encourage children aged 4 to 11 to enjoy reading, the programme is funded by Arts Council England. The theme this year is Gadgeteers (developed in partnership with the Science Museum Group) designed to spark children’s curiosity about the world about them.
There are three zones on the programme’s website: school, home and library. Children can keep track of the books they have read, play games and enter competitions. The book sorter tool provides reading recommendations based on books
that other children have enjoyed – all the books are recommended, rated and reviewed by children using the website. The book sorter recommendations can be tailored for different age groups.
Some of the libraries participating in the scheme include Cheshire East, Trafford, Stockport and Manchester. The libraries support young readers by recommending books in a range of genres and handing out reading activities, posters and stickers. You just need to pop in to your local library and register for free. www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk
King’s School Chess Champions Qualify to Compete in Final The chess club at King’s School in Macclefield is to send a team of seven players to the North of England giga finals. 20 boys and girls competed in the North West regional mega final event, with a record number of players qualifying for the North final. Tracy Aston, senior school chess team organiser and maths teacher, said: “This is our best ever group of players at all age levels. There has been a dramatic increase in interest in the game, and each player seems to be feeding off each other’s competitive spirit with a fierce desire to get better and better.” The King’s School chess clubs welcome entry and advanced level players. They run in both the junior and senior sections four times every week, with coach Andrew Ireland teaching “opening theory, end game theory, tactics and, as importantly, how to accept defeat as well as win with modesty.”
Outdoor School at Kids Planet Day Nurseries Research in Denmark has shown that children feel higher levels of joy, greater feelings of wellbeing and improved social interactions while learning outdoors, in comparison to in the classroom. Kids Planet day nurseries believe that, for young children, spending time outdoors is a necessity, not a luxury. From the moment children are born, their main purpose in life is to figure things out, investigate, make meaning and find their place in the world. The basic need to move, repeat and revisit is ingrained in them, and the unique and special nature of outdoor activity feeds this curiosity, demanding the use of the entire body and all the senses. Kids Planet embraces the magic of nature and has developed its own nature-based outdoor learning accreditation, inspired by the Danish
concept of ‘udeskole’, which means ‘outdoor school’. The accreditation was created and spearheaded by Rhiannon Scott, the company’s group outdoor lead.
For more information or to find out about nursery places in and around Cheshire, Wythenshawe, Stockport or Greater Manchester, please go to www.kidsplanetdaynurseries.co.uk
Mr Ireland, who has been King’s chess coach for 18 years said: “You need concentration, calculation, mental energy, physical stamina and, above all, perseverance to become a good chess player. This team demonstrates all those qualities in abundance.” Junior school champion Sef Cooper said: “I love the game and play every night with my family, and yes, I do beat my dad more often than not now. He needs to up his game.”
Pictured above: Junior school chess organiser Vicki Atkins, coach Andrew Ireland, senior school organiser Tracy Aston, and chess players Sacha, Sef, Maryam, Sam, Xander and Narayan.
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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
A Day in the Country As a relatively rural county, Cheshire has a long history of agriculture – particularly dairy, cattle and sheep farming. Not surprisingly, it also has a strong tradition of countryside pursuits – and all of this is showcased in the outdoor county shows and countryside fairs that happen every summer, writes Daisy Dorothy. I confess, I don’t venture out into the countryside very often. But when I do, there is nothing I like better than sitting on a hay bale with the kids, in our wellies and sun hats, eating hot chips and listening to a folk band.
show or countryside fair is a great day out for a family – especially if your children like tractors or sheep. The Cheshire Game and Country Fair is on 28 – 29 August at the Cheshire County Showground in Tabley. It will feature trade stands, a craft fair, a show arena, clay pigeon shooting, dog events, a chainsaw carving competition and lots more. www.livingheritagecountryshows.com The Poynton Show on 27 August is a traditional family day out, at the Poynton Showground. There will be
live music, lots of animals to see, stunt ride entertainment, vintage machinery, a funfair and some arts and craft activities. www.poyntonshow.co.uk The Chatsworth Country Fair on 2 – 4 September (okay, so this one is in Derbyshire) is one of the UK’s largest annual countryside events, held in the beautiful grounds of Chatsworth House. There will be military bands, stunt teams and aerobatics in the grand ring, along with food and other entertainment. www.chatsworth.org
County shows and countryside fairs typically feature competitions between farmers, breeders and growers – proudly showing off their best animals and crops – and the prize-giving is taken very seriously. There are stalls and trade stands featuring anything that might be useful in the countryside, including machinery, tools, clothing, horse riding paraphernalia, animal feed and so on. For members of the public, there are usually funfair rides, show-jumping, falconry displays and games to play, not to mention all the great music, food and drink. All in all, a county
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Gardening Advice From One of the Gardening Greats
sometimes find ourselves being particularly ruthless with what grows in our gardens. But remember, everything grows at a different rate and sometimes the most mundane of plants will flourish to become the most beautiful. But only if they’re left in the ground. 4. Prepare your soil properly Give your plants a good chance by ensuring the soil they’re in is in good condition. A simple testing kit will let you know if you need to re-compost, add fertiliser, or simply switch to a different soil type.
Alan Titchmarsh, gardener, TV presenter, novelist and all-round horticultural expert, reveals the most common mistakes we make and can avoid in our gardens. “I really enjoy my time spent with the public, chatting about and sharing the passion we all have for gardening and horticulture. It’s a subject that is so deep – and you can explore it in such a variety of ways – and yet most of the conversations I have with people end up with them asking my advice on the worries and woes that they are experiencing back home in their outdoor spaces. I’m quick to tell them I don’t have all the answers, particularly when their gardens are several miles away, but I do my best to help. I always say, as a golden rule, that prevention is better than cure. So, with that in mind, here are my top seven gardening mistakes (and how to avoid them): 1. You can have too much of a good thing Less is more when it comes to good gardening, and if you cram too much together it will look a mess, or worse still, die of overcrowding.
5. Steer clear of the ‘bullies’ Japanese knotweed and Russian vine are particularly unruly and will undermine not just your flowers, but nearby buildings too. 6. Watch out for our animal friends Gardening expert Alan Titchmarsh
We may like to see the birds and hedgehogs, and even the odd fox, in our gardens, but do try to protect your plants from being eaten. 7. Spread the love around your garden Few of us have a limitless budget, so it’s better to do a little bit at a time rather than focus entirely on one part of the garden, leaving the rest of it looking neglected. Remember, no two gardens are the same, just as no two gardeners are the same, and you’re never going to get it right all the time. The most important thing is to be organised and put the effort in – if you do that, the rewards will very often follow close behind.”
2. Don’t over or under water Be regimented with your watering routine and adjust it depending on rainfall to ensure your garden is nicely hydrated at all times. 3. Be aware what weeds are Always ensure that what you’re pulling up are weeds and not slow-developing flowers. We can 21
BABY & TODDLER DIARY
Community baby and toddler groups are a great opportunity for parents and carers to connect with other people with very young children, and a safe place for the kids to play and socialise. Some local groups have restarted, having closed over lockdown, while others are staying closed for now. The groups listed below are now meeting again, but details may change and there may be pre-booking systems or limits on numbers, so please try and check in advance before you go. 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 here, so that we can include them in future issues. Thanks to the brilliant Little Superstars (see page 16), Tumble Tots and Rugbytots (below) for supporting these pages.
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
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
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 10am – 12pm: Tuesday Tots, The Marquee, St Phillips & St James Church, ALDERLEY EDGE SK9 7UZ (pre-book). www.stphilipandstjames.co.uk 9.30am – 11am: Butterflies, Chelford CE Primary School, Oak Rd, CHELFORD SK11 9AY www.chelford.cheshire.sch.uk
Rugbytots is the world’s favourite Rugby play programme. Dynamic, structured and fun play sessions for toddlers and young children are held at Macclesfield Leisure Centre, Bollington Civic Hall, Poynton Civic Hall and Congleton Mossley Village Hall. Classes are tailored for children aged 2—3.5, 3.5—5 and 5—7 years old. www.rugbytots.co.uk Call Alick on 07961 045330 Email alick@rugbytots.co.uk 22
Facebook: rugbytotssecheshire
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.
www.tumbletots.com/macclesfield Call Megan on 07814 020 095
Facebook: tumbletotsmacclesfield
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 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 & Thu) www.ourhub.org 10.30am: Tiddlywinks, Wilmslow Methodist Church, Kings Close, Water Lane, WILMSLOW wilmslowmethodists.org.uk 9.30am – 11.30am: Jolly Tots, Knutsford Methodist Church, Princess Street, KNUTSFORD WA16 6BY www.kmc.org.uk
10.30am – 12pm: Parent & Toddler Group (ages 0 – 5) ALTRINCHAM Methodist Church, 12.45pm – 2.15pm: Barrington Road WA14 1HF Just for Dads (for Dads, Grandads & (also Mondays) male carers with children aged 0 – 4), www.altrincham-methodist.org.uk Guywood Centre, Guywood Lane, St Chad’s Church Romiley, 10am – 11.30am: Oasis Baby & TodSTOCKPORT SK6 4AN. dler Group, St. John’s Baptist Church, Call Vicky on 07745 862557 KNUTSFORD WA16 6DH (pre-book) www.stchadsromiley.co.uk www.stjohnsknutsford.org.uk 9.30 – 10.30am & 11am – 12pm: Prampushers, Guywood Centre, Guywood Lane, St Chad’s Church Romiley, STOCKPORT SK6 4AN. Call Vicky on 07745 862557 stchadsromiley.co.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 Church Hall, POYNTON SK12 1RB www.poyntonmethodist.org 10.30am – 11.45am: Baby Chat (up to 12 months / before walking), Cheadle Hulme Methodist Church, Ramilies Ave, CHEADLE HULME SK8 7AL www.chmc.org.uk
9.30am – 11.30am: Little Fishes Toddler Group, St. Paul’s Church, St. Paul’s Road, Heaton Moor, STOCKPORT SK4 4RY, book on (0161) 432 3431 www.stpaulsheatonmoor.org.uk 10am – 11.30am: Oasis Baby & Toddler Group, St. John’s Baptist Church, KNUTSFORD WA16 6DH (pre-book).
www.stjohnsknutsford.org.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
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
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
10.30am – 11.45am: Wobblers (crawling to 24 months) CHEADLE HULME Methodist Church, Ramilies Ave, SK8 7AL www.chmc.org.uk
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 23
9.30am – 11am: Little Fishes Baby & Toddler Group,
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