Families Bedfordshire July-August 2016

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JULY/AUGU ST 2016

ISSUE 23

What's on: July & August Summer activities for kids Fantastic competition prizes!

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For Families with young children aged 0 - 12 in Bedfordshire To advertise: 01727 373929

July/August 2016

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Contents

Editor’s Welcome Hello!

Welcome to our July/ August summer issue.

We’re spoilt for choice this summer with so much going on across Bedfordshire. Our What’s On and Summer Activities guide both feature lots of things to do with the kids across the summer holiday.

There is a real sporting theme with the Rio Olympics around the corner, and Families magazines were delighted to catch up with Olympian swimmer Adrian Moorhouse and you can read his comments on page 11. We also have a wonderful opportunity for our readers to win a family ticket to Woburn Safari Park, see page 5 for more details.

Finally, the relaunched Families website (www.familiesonline.co.uk) goes live on Monday 4 July, so please do take a look!

Have a brilliant summer, whatever you do!

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News & Info

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News & competition

6

Book news

7-9

Summer activities

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Education news

11

Adrian Moorhouse interview

12 -15 16

What’s On Fruity treats for kids

Editor: Judith Dow editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk Mob: 07889 894431 or phone: 01727 373929. www.facebook.com/FamiliesBeds Twitter: @FamiliesBeds

Judith

Design by

.co.uk

P.S. Our September/October issue will be going “back to school” and will also feature lots of clubs and classes news. Copy deadline: Friday 5 August.

Photo Credits Front cover: © Shutterstock (www.shutterstock.com) Page 4 © Image Source/Alamy.

Families Bedfordshire is printed by The Manson Group (01727 848440) on paper sourced from sustainable forests and the inks used are vegetable based. Distribution: we are printing 15,000 copies which will be distributed to selected points in Bedfordshire. For further distribution information please contact the Editor (editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk).

Award-winning tuition with a difference. For ages 5 -14.

Call 01483 447414 to book your free trial session @exploretutors

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www.explorelearning.co.uk

/explorelearning

Families Bedfordshire is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Bedfordshire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

July/August 2016

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

NEWS & INFO

The Big Friendly Read £4 Car Parking

This year’s Summer Reading Challenge (https:// readingagency.org.uk/children/ quick-guides/summer-readingchallenge/) which will run across the school summer holidays, is linking up with the global year-long Roald Dahl 100 celebrations (www.roalddahl.com/ roalddahl100), marking the birth of the world’s No.1 storyteller.

£2 Blue Badge Parking

The Big Friendly Read will feature some of Roald Dahl’s best-loved characters and the amazing artwork of his principal illustrator, Sir Quentin Blake. It will encourage reading on a giant scale and will feature themes such as invention, mischief and friendship as explored in Roald Dahl’s books.

It will encourage children to expand their own reading by exploring similar themes across the best contemporary children’s writing.

Children can sign up for the Summer Reading Challenge at their local library as the school summer term ends and the holidays begin -there’s no charge to participate so why not pop down to your library?

Libraries across Bedfordshire, will all be running their own events over the summer. See our What’s On section for more information, or visit the websites below: www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/leisure/libraries/overview.aspx www.lutonculture.com/luton-libraries/

SATURDAY 30 JULY

11am - 5pm, Tiddenfoot Waterside Park, LU7 2AE Canal Boats Rural Crafts Arts & Crafts Live Music & Entertainment Working in partnership with

Direct: 01525 631920 www.leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk

Get paddling down to the Bedford River Festival!

Get down to the River Ouse in Bedford on Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th July to celebrate this year's River Festival!

It's 850 years since the signing of the Royal Charter by Henry II granting new rights and powers to the people of Bedford, so what better time to celebrate the Anniversay year than at this biennial event?

Look up, look down, look around!

The Collection is home to historic aircraft, vintage vehicles and motorcycles, and a period Swiss Garden

There will be a community festival parade, the ancient Chinese tradition of dragon boat racing, for 16-20 paddlers, raft races, carnival floats, live music, a fairground and a heritage village.

And, for the first time, this year you will be able to get direct trains from Milton Keynes Central to Bedford on the Sunday via the Marston Vale Line (www.marstonvalecommunityrail.org.uk)!

The Fireworks Flyer service will be leaving Bedford on the saturday at 11.10pm and will call at all stations to Bletchley, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy the firework display which rounds off the evening.

Regency Garden Party

Peter Pan

Old Warden Aerodrome, Bedfordshire, SG18 9EP July-August events at Shuttleworth for all the family! l Regency Garden Party on Sunday 10 July and Chapterhouse Theatre presents ‘Peter Pan’ in the Swiss Garden on Thursday 25 August l Edwardian Pageant at The Collection on Sunday 7 August l Afternoon Tea with The House open for viewing on Sunday 28 August

www.shuttleworth.org/events Reg Charity No 307534

To advertise: 01727 373929 Families Beds QP July-Aug 2016.indd 1

July/August 2016 13/06/2016 10:34:41

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NEWS & INFO

Linslade Canal Festival 2016 Linslade Canal Festival takes place on Saturday 30 July (11am-5pm) at Tiddenfoot Waterside Park, Linslade, LU7 2AE. This country park, adjacent to the Grand Union Canal, provides a very unique setting for this popular one day event.

Promoting arts and crafts, cottage industries and life on the canal, visitors will have the opportunity to browse the numerous stalls and narrow boats selling anything from hand craft products, cheese and jewellery to Spanish tapas.

Rural craft demonstrators will provide a visual insight into the traditional skills of making Bee Skeps, Love spoons, Corn Dollies and Besom Brooms.

Activities and entertainment include kids mini car hire, a bug hunt, fun dog show, wriggly reptiles, children’s fun fair and a programme of live music. Free admission to the festival. Car parking charges apply.

More info: Leighton-Linslade Town Council on 01525 631920; e-mail: info@leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk or: www.leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk

Enjoy an Olympic summer at Mead Open Farm Boiiiing! Get bouncy on Mead Open Farm’s new gigantic Jumping Pillows this summer! With one pillow just for the under- fives and one for older children, everyone can join in the fun. And, open in August (weather permitting), try and find your way through Mead Open Farm’s A-Maize-ing Maize. With over 4 acres of corn fun, complete the Olympic trail around the Maize to earn your very own gold medal!

Mead Open Farm also has plenty more adventure to discover.

Little daredevils will love the Sky Trail and Sky Tykes High Ropes Course, Giant’s Rock Climbing Wall, Go Karts and Topsy Turvy Towers outdoor adventure playground.

Join the Big Wild Sleepout For the fourth year running, the RSPB is organising its Big Wild Sleepout (29-31 July).

Happy campers across the country will be encouraged to sleep out in their own gardens or outdoor spaces to get close to nature and discover which creatures they share their homes with. Bedfordshire families can join in at the RSPB's headquarters in Potton; see our What's On for details.

Plus, you can enjoy plenty of daily animal activities, hop on board for a Tractor & Trailer ride or win a special badge at Mead Open Farm’s very own “Lamb National”.

Elsewhere challenge your friends at crazy golf, play in Shaggy’s Cove, dig and build in Digger Village, and run wild in Shaggy’s huge PlayWorld! More info. Tel: 01525 852954 or visit www.meadopenfarm.co.uk

The charity is challenging children and their families to go on a miniadventure, get wild and discover what goes bump in the night with the amazing nocturnal wildlife on their doorstep.

Whether it be glamping in tents or caravans, getting back to basics in dens and shelters or even roughing it under open skies and a blanket of stars, there will be Sleepout styles to cater for all levels and ages. Sign up now for a Big Wild Sleepout pack and register to take part at www.rspb.org.uk/sleepout.

The picture shows volunteers from the John Bunyan Museum, who accepted the Highly Commended in the Front of House category, on behalf of colleagues at the Share Volunteer Awards. The Bedford-based Museum's volunteer team of 40, help across all areas of the Museum.

First Aid tips for children Summer holidays mean fun in the sun for you and your family – but are you prepared for any medical emergencies?

By Danielle Bridge Pre-holiday preparation When you’re packing, include a basic First Aid kit, a bottle of sterile water plus antihistamine and pain relief that are both suitable for your child’s age. If you’re going abroad, make a note of the Emergency Services number for your destination – ask your tour operator if you can’t find it.

Dealing with insect stings For a bee or wasp sting, use a long finger nail or piece of stiff card to scrape the sting away from the wound at the angle it entered, then hold a cold compress on the area for 10 minutes. Keep an eye on your child afterwards – if you notice a patchy rash, swelling, problems with breathing and/or vomiting, call an ambulance immediately.

Helping with heat exhaustion Loss of appetite, nausea, sweating, pale, clammy skin, headache, dizziness, confusion and body cramps can all be signs of heat exhaustion. Move your child to a cool place and give them plenty of water followed by a weak salt solution (1 tsp salt per litre of water). If there’s no significant improvement after 30 minutes, seek medical help.

Handling heat stroke More serious than heat exhaustion, look out for a severe headache, restlessness and confusion and flushed, hot, dry skin.

Call the Emergency Services immediately then wrap your child in a cold, wet sheet. Keep wetting the sheet until their temperature has returned to normal (37 degrees) then replace the wet sheet with a dry one. If you don’t have a sheet, fan your child while sponging them down with a cold flannel.

Danielle Bridge is a mum of two and founder of ABC Life Support which offers paediatric First Aid training nationwide.

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July/August 2016

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

BBQ for Heroes this summer!

This summer (July 16-31), Help for Heroes are launching their BBQ for Heroes initiative. With plenty of tasty recipes to get your mouth watering, it couldn't be easier to get involved.

Gather around some friends and family and check the weather forecast! For more information and to register for a free fundraising pack, see www.helpforheroes.org.uk/ bbq-for-heroes/

NEWS & COMPETITION

NEW! Jumping Pillows+

There’s always lots of fun stuff for kids to do at Stotfold Watermill and nature reServe For open dates and events visit www.stotfoldmill.com

i Boi ing!

This Summer, you’ll love the NEW gigantic Jumping Pillows+ at Mead Open Farm! Plus, there’s plenty more Indoor & Outdoor Play and Animal Activities!

01525 852954

FREE Child Ticket*

Near Leighton Buzzard, LU7 9JH

*One child free admitted per advertisement, per full paying adult. No photocopies or web copies. Not valid with any other offer including After School Prices, Annual Membership, Group/School rates or Party packages. Cannot be exchanged for cash. Valid until 4/9/2016. +Weather Permitting FMB

Kids Week, the annual London theatre initiative, returns this summer (1-31 August 2016).

14/05/2016

MOF-AM-16-071-SummerAd-118x70 FMB.indd 1

Kids Week - London theatre

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Now in its 19th year, it encourages young people to experience the magic of live theatre.

During Kids Week one child aged 16 or under can go free to a wide range of participating shows when accompanied by an adult paying full price, and up to two extra children can go for half price, per transaction. Book tickets at www.kidsweek.co.uk Plus you can catch the brilliant new 3D mini-movie in Sea Lion Cove – ‘20,000 Leagues Under the Sea’ and bounce on over to the upgraded Tiny Tots Safari Trail, a special bouncy castle for the under 5's.

To be in with a chance of winning a family ticket, simply answer the question below and send it by email to editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

by Friday 22 July 2016.

Please include your name, address and phone number, along with your answer.

Win one of three family tickets to Woburn Safari Park!

Win a family ticket to Woburn Safari Park this summer and see the gorgeous new arrivals – a playful pair of Amur tiger cubs born last year and three adorable North American black bear cubs who join over 1,000 other wild animals in Woburn’s beautiful parkland reserves.

Your safari adventure includes loads of exciting new animals and attractions this summer!

Chelonia Pathways is a new habitat for Albert, Flo, Ken, Harold and Gordon the charismatic Aldabra tortoises. Spot new arrivals – the Bush Dogs, moving into their new home in time for the summer holidays. See Asian elephant calf Tarli at Elephant Meadow and get close enough to touch the Asian elephants during the daily demonstrations.

Question: Earlier this year, North American black bear Phoenix gave birth to cubs. But how many did she have?

A) Five B) Three C) Two Terms and conditions: Three winners will each receive a family ticket for two adults and two children valid for six months from the date of issue. The winner will be selected at random on the closing date and the editor’s decision is final.

The prize is non-transferable and there is no cash alternative. If you are under 16 please ask an adult to supervise your entry. Please note: Woburn Safari Park is only accessible by car. All decisions of Families Magazine are final and no correspondence will be entered into. Only the winners’ details will be supplied to the Promoter of the competition. Families Magazine is not liable for any delay or failure by the Promoter to deliver any prize or for the quality of the prize or for any loss or damage arising in connection with the competition.

Beat the Traffic & Take the Train to the Bedford River Festival!

(Saturday 16-Sunday 17 July 2016)

For further information please contact: Stephen Sleight Marston Vale Community Rail Partnership Tel: 01234 832645 E-mail: stephens@bedsrcc.org.uk Visit our award winning website! www.marstonvalecommunityrail.org.uk Find us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/marstonvalecrp Follow us on Twitter! @marstonvalecrp

Design: BRCC Services Ltd. | Copyright © 2013 BRCC Services Ltd. | All rights reserved

GroupSave Rail Tickets

Great rates for families!

1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults, kids half-price, under 5s free!

• Normal hourly Saturday service from Bletchley to Bedford PLUS • Special Fireworks Flyer from Bedford at 11:10 pm calling at all stations to Bletchley • Special Sunday service from 11:00am – 6:30pm (connections available to Leighton Buzzard) PLUS • A number of direct services to Milton Keynes Central on Sunday for the first time!

• Great free fun family day out: Carnival Parade, Medieval Village, Live Music, Dragon Boat Race, Fairground & much more!

• Don’t fancy the River Festival? Ridgmont Station Heritage Centre also open all weekend Free entry!

Lots of other great value days out by train this summer – contact us for details!

To advertise: 01727 373929

July/August 2016

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BOOK NEWS

T

he Bedford Chronicles have now launched a Club which is free to join. Sign up to receive a membership card, regular news, member offers about history, heritage and workshops in the Bedford area.

Plus, you'll also to get involved in special promotions by local history and heritage providers such as The John Bunyan Museum and The Quarry Theatre. More info: www.bedfordchronicles. co.uk/chronicleclub.html

Bedfordshire mum gives proceeds of her book to children’s charities A Lidlington mum who lost her hair to alopecia has written a children’s book about hairlessness and is donating the proceeds to children’s cancer charities.

Rebecca Dawe wrote Hairless Harri* after experiencing negative reactions to her own hair loss. The book follows the story of seven-year-old Harri who’s shunned by her classmates because she’s bald but soon wins them over and becomes the coolest girl in the school. ‘I endured horrible comments when I started losing my hair at 16, but at school it’s more brutal,’ says Rebecca. ‘Children are scared of things that are different. I wanted to write a book that helped children to celebrate differences rather than fear them.’

Proceeds of the book will be donated to children’s cancer charity CLIC Sargent until the end of July, after which Rebecca will pick another similar charity to benefit.

This popular festival will also feature a two-metre long view of British history by Christopher Lloyd and if you bring a hat you can help Professor Pango Mango create poems in the Poetry Cart.

‘It took me a long time to accept my hair loss but when I became a mum I created a new relationship with myself,’ says Rebecca, who set up Hair Necessity in 2001 to provide quality but affordable wigs.

‘I now like the reflection staring back at me. My hair might not have grown but my heart has. I’m kinder and more compassionate and I feel strong inside.’

Take a tour of the actual historic walled garden designed by Capability Brown where some plants and produce including Luton Hoo honey can be taken home. Tickets are available now from www.lutonhooestate.co.uk/events/

* Hairless Harri (£2.99, Kindle edition available on Amazon)

Books, bears, history and magic in the Walled Garden The Hoo's Kids Book Fest Summer Day comes to the Luton Hoo Estate Walled Garden on Wednesday 31 August.

David Litchfield will be reading from his book "The Bear and the Piano" while children can make masks and join his Bear Band to sing favourite bear songs! Humorous horror stories with Guy Bass from his Stitch Head books can be heard, Nigel Baines, will be drawing live and Lou Treleaven will show you how to make a crazy car!

Families Book Reviews

By Claire Muffett-Reece

Families brings you the best new book releases

0-2 Years

3 - 5 Years

6 - 8 Years

9-11 Years

12 +

The dinosaur that pooped daddy!

By Tom Fletcher (Penguin, £3.99)

The bumblebear by Nadia Shireen (Random House, £5.99)

The world’s worst children, by David Wlliams (Harper Collins, £12.99)

Action hero: the fincredible diary of Fin Spencer, by Ciaran Murtagh (Bonnier Zaffre, £5.99)

Finding Audrey, by Sophie Kinsella (Corgi Childrens, £5.99)

A spectacular collection of tales about 10 delightfully dreadful children.

There’s Sofia Sofa; a TV super-fan so stuck to the sofa she’s turning in to one! Or how about Dribbling Drew, a boy whose drool gets him into trouble on a school trip…

The third installment of the fincredible diary series sees the return of Fin’s magic diary, which changes events of the past depending on what he writes inside.

Banned from the class trip, Fin uses the diary to visit Stevie Knuckles Action Camp – but will his plans backfire?

It’s great to see that this latest Dinosaur that pooped installment has education in mind, counting from 10 to one with Danny and Dino as they seek out Daddy’s hiding place – and watching out for Dinosaur poo along the way!

Meet Norman the bear as he hatches a plan to dress up as a bee, in order to attend Bee School for some tasty honey. However, when entering the bees’ world his identity is revealed, with this book helping your child understand about identity, learning and friendship.

Meet Audrey, a girl recovering from social anxiety order to the extent she won’t leave the house. Then along comes her friend’s brother Linus, who shows her that finding her way back to the real world is achievable.

Claire Muffett-Reese is a freelance journalist who has written for a number of publications including The Evening Standard, Metro, Fabulous, Cosmopolitan, Tesco, Boots, Emma’s Diary and Wedding, among many others.

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July/August 2016

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

Summer activities Get into a sporty mood this summer SNOWSPORTS Although we are in the middle of summer, it’s not too early to sharpen up your snow sports skills. If you get down to Snozone in Milton Keynes, you can learn to ski, sledge or snowboard the whole year round! Snozone are also running an event on Sunday 10 July to coincide with Disability Awareness Day. Guests who have additional requirements are invited to attend and will be offered free adaptive snowsports sessions. More info email snowsports.mk@snozoneuk.com SWIMMING CRASH COURSES The summer holidays are a great time of the year to give the kids a chance to brush up on their swimming skills. What better way than booking them into a swimming crash course for a week? Lots of local leisure centres offer them, including Houghton Regis (www.sll.co.uk/sandy/Houghton_Regis).

SPORTS COURSES This is a great time of year to try a new sport or to hone your kids' sporting skills.

They are sure to burn off lots of energy in the process! Bedford Borough Council are running their courses this year (tel 01234 718834 to book) and offer a wide variety of sports activities throughout the town.

GYM CAMPS The Salto Gym in Luton (www.saltogym.org/) are running summer gym camps on Tuesdays and Wednesdays (26 July-31 August).

They are giving Families Bedfordshire readers a Non-member “special early bird reader offer” to have the same “Member Discount” provided 3 or more sessions are pre-booked in the same booking and on production of the original magazine advert. Book by Sunday 17 July 2016 to receive your discount.

Their “Play Gym” sessions will run every Monday & Wednesday from Monday 25 July. They're drop in for children up to to 7 years old.

· Self Protection and Anti-Bullying · Safe, Disciplined and Fun

FREE! Four weeks Beginners Course Every Sunday at 10.15am and Every Tuesday at 5pm Upstairs Martial Arts Room Dunstable Leisure Centre Court Drive, Dunstable LU5 4JD Email: tiska.karate@btconnect.com www.tiska.com

Special rates for families Minimum age 4 years.

All our instructors have Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Certificates.

8th Dan Black Belt International Instructor

Tel: 07709-327274 or 01753-882012 To advertise: 01727 373929

July/August 2016

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Summer activities

Summer activities There are so many activities taking place this summer across Bedfordshire.

From bug hunting to garden exploring through to LEGO workshops. Here’s our selection of what’s available and where, please do always check details in advance. Now, get ready, steady and go!

RIDGMONT HERITAGE CENTRE New for the summer holidays is a Children’s Activity Booklet which you can pick up at the Ridgmont Heritage Centre. Packed full of colouring, word searches, quizzes and trails, it’s sure to keep the kids occupied while you sneak off for a cup of tea! £1 per copy.

Contact details: Ridgmont Heritage Centre, Ridgmont Railway Station, Station Road, Ridgmont Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am-4pm. Tea room is open Tuesday to Sunday.

(Tel: 01525 287120).

WREST PARK Ugly Bug Safari: Monday 1 - Friday 5 August, 11am-5pm Small game hunters wanted. Grab a magnifying glass and join our big hunt for some mini beasts. Peer into the parterre, unearth insects near the orangery and encounter gruesome bugs near the long water. Discover the secret life of our creepy friends and create your own to take home.

Awesome Archaeology: Monday 8 - Friday 12 August, 11am-5pm Get your hands dirty as you become a daring archaeologist on our mini dig for the day. Discover hidden treasures and fantastic finds as you excavate the secrets of Wrest Park.

Garden Explorers: Monday 15 - Friday 19 August, 11am - 5pm Flex those green fingers and start a garden adventure this summer, as 2016 is VisitEngland’s official ‘Year of the Garden’. Hear stories about famous gardeners from the past then get your creative juices flowing by using foliage found in the Wrest Park gardens to make something crafty to take home.

Nature Detectives: Monday 22 - Friday 26 August, 11am – 5pm Join the butterfly people and enjoy finding out about some of Wrest Park’s smallest neighbours! Find out more about England’s native nature and enjoy exploring the 90 acre gardens this summer.

Contact details: Wrest Park, Silsoe, MK45 4HR. Web: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/ wrest-park/events

RUFUS CENTRE, FLITWICK Drama Summer School – Peter Pan Monday 25 – Friday 29 July,10am-4pm and Friday night performance. Up-stage Theatre Company are back hosting a drama summer school for a week. It’s full of fun for children who enjoy acting, singing and dancing and no experience is necessary. Just watch their confidence grow as children learn skills associated with drama and performance, including direction, choreography, vocal work and more Family and friends are in for a treat on the Friday night as they watch the cast perform ‘Peter Pan’ and the children showcase everything they’ve learnt.

Cost per child is £85 which includes 2 free tickets to the performance, a free logo’d t-shirt to keep, professional coaching, art materials to make scenery and costume hire. For children aged 6 – 14 years and pre-booking is essential.

Contact details: Rufus Centre, Steppingley Road, Flitwick. Telephone: 01525 631900 Email: stacielockey@flitwick.gov.uk; Web: www.flitwick.gov.uk Summer Fun Morning: Tuesday 16 August, 8.45am-12noon Crafts and games with a summer theme. Suitable for 4-9 year olds. £6.50 per child. Pre-book by tel: 01525 631900.

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July/August 2016

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Movie Mornings The Good Dinosaur: Thursday 11 August, doors open 1.30pm Snoopy & Charlie Brown: The Peanuts Movie, Thursday 18 August, doors open 10am Minions Movie: Tuesday 30 August, doors open 1.30pm £3.50 per person, includes popcorn & drink Contact details: Rufus Centre, Steppingley Road, Flitwick. Tel: 01525 631900. Web: www. flitwick.gov.uk

THE FOREST CENTRE, MARSTON MORETAINE Pond Dipping and Design: Wednesday 27 July, Tuesday 2 August, Tuesday 16 August, 10am-3pm. Sessions at 10am, 11.30am and 2pm.

Find out who’s living in the pond and make a pond on a plate. All equipment will be provided to have a go at pond dipping followed by an indoor craft session. £4 per child.

Dragon Trail: Tuesday 9 August,10am-3pm. Sessions at 10am, 11.30am and 2pm. Search for dragon flies in the country park. Hear a dragon story and make your own dragon fly. £4 per child.

Kite Making: Thursday 11 August, sessions at 10am, 11.30am & 2pm. Make your own colourful kite. All materials provided. £4 per child.

Wellies in the Wetlands: Tuesday 30 August, 10am-4pm. Guided tour of the wetland reserve. Dress for the great outdoors. £5 per child.

Contact details: Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine. To book tel: 01234 767037 Email info@marstonvale.org Web: www.marstonvale.org

JOHN BUNYAN MUSEUM, BEDFORD Clay Creatures: Thursday 4 August, 11am-3.30pm, drop in. Be inspired by John Bunyan, and his monstrous creatures in clay.

Monster Mobiles: Thursday 11 August, 11am – 3.30pm, drop in. Design and make your own hanging mobile.

Fierce Figures: Thursday 18 August, 11am – 3.30pm drop in. Create your own John Bunyan, or one of his many characters.

Museum Mosaics: Thursday 25 August, 11am – 3.30pm, drop in. Make your own paper mosaic picture to take home. £2 per child. Suitable for age 4 plus.

Contact details: The John Bunyan Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday 11am – 4pm and admission is free. John Bunyan Museum & Library, Bunyan Meeting, Mill Street, Bedford, MK40 3EU. Tel: 01234 270303 Email: curator@bunyanmeeting.co.uk Web: www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk/museum

STOTFOLD MILL Children’s Storytime: Sunday 24 July, 12.30-5pm. No need to book, just turn up and listen! Free entry.

Pond dipping: Tuesday 2 August, sessions 10-12noon & 1.30-3.30pm. Discover what lurks in and around the Nature Reserve ponds. Booking essential £2 per child. Suitable for children aged 5-11 years.

Skull Island Adventure: Wednesday 10 August, sessions 10-12noon & 1.303.30pm. Be an explorer, navigate your way around the field using your mapping skills. Use them on a map of Skull Island.. Booking essential £2 per child.

Suitable for children aged 5-11 years.

Krafty Kids Workshop: Tuesday 16 August, sessions 10-12noon & 1.30-3.30pm.

Go on a scavenger hunt! Use a variety of found materials to inspire your own pictures. Booking essential. £2 per child. Suitable for children aged 5-11 years.

Summer activities Hands on Kitchen Science: Wednesday 24 August, sessions 10-12noon & 1.30-3.30pm. Experiment, explore, explode! Discover what can be done using everyday objects and materials that can be found in the kitchen. Booking essential £2 per child. Suitable for children aged 5-11 years. Booking essential.

We’re Going on a Bearhunt Workshop: every Tuesday from 2 August – Tuesday 30 August, 2-3pm. Read the famous book by Michael Rosen, bring your bear to listen. For ages 3-9 years. Tel: 01582 878100 to book. Box office tel: 01582 878100

Contact details: Stotfold Mill, Mill Lane, Stotfold. Book via email events@stotfoldmill.com.

Web: www.stotfoldmill.com

Contact details: Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road, Luton Web: www.lutonculture.com

BUG LABS

LUTON CENTRAL LIBRARY

Discover amazing minibeasts with expert guides, hunt bugs and make some crafts!

Drop-in, 1.30-3.30pm.

Tuesday 2 August, Tiddenfoot Wateride Park, Leighton Buzzard Wednesday 3 August, Houghton Hall Park, Houghton Regis Thursday 4 August, Rushemere Country Park, bottom meadow Friday 5 August, Linslade Wood, Knaves Hill entrance Monday 8 August, Flitwick Wood, Tennyson Road entrance Tuesday 9 August, Working Woodland Centre, off lay by, Maulden Wood, A6 Wdensday 10 August, Centenary Wood, near Flitton and Greenfield .

Contact details: www.greensandtrust.org

STOCKWOOD DISCOVERY CENTRE, LUTON Arts Award Summer School: Monday 25-Friday 29 July Arts and craft activities. Info: www.lutonculture.com Lego Workshops: every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 1 August – Thursday 1 September, 10.15am, 11.45am 1.45pm, 3.15pm. Myths and magic themed LEGO activity and take home a LEGO dragon. £10 per child includes entry to the Brick Kingdom LEGO exhibition. For ages 5 plus.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Workshop: every Tuesday from Tuesday 2 August – 30 August, 11am -12noon. Read the famous book and make a caterpillar to take home. £3 per child, for ages 3-7 years.

Crafty Creations Workshop Luton Central Library, St George’s Square, Luton.

Drop-in sessions run 11am - 12pm and 2pm - 3pm Tuesday 2, 9, 16 & 23 August: Design and make a funky medal or trophy Wednesday 3, 10, 17, & 24 August: Build your own whizzy Wizard this summer by Be a champion taking part in a LEGO Workshop at Stockwood and make a medal Discovery Centre in Luton. Running or trophy throughout August on a Monday, Wednesday Thursday 4, 11, and Thursday, they are sure to be a magical hit!

18 & 25 August: More info: www.lutonculture.com Create your own arty masterpiece Free, donations welcome. Drop-in. Ages 5 plus.

THEATRE

WORKSHOPS

The Little Gardener 3+

Craf ty Creations 5+

Fri 29 Jul 1pm & 3pm / Sat 30 Jul 11am & 1pm, Stockwood Discovery Centre Bring picnic blankets and gather round on the lawn for a spellbinding interactive performance, based on the book by Emily Hughes.

The little gardener needs your help to bring his garden to life.

Little ones are invited into the giant greenhouse to help tend a real-life garden. £3 if booked by Thu 14 Jul / £5 after

EXHIBITION The Brick Kingdom Sat 23 Jul – Sun 4 Sep (daily 10am – 5pm), Stockwood Discovery Centre An exhibition of medieval fantasy LEGO models Adult £4, child £3, group of four £12, group of six £15

Drop-in sessions run 11am-12pm and 2pm-3pm at Luton Central Library on the following days: Tue 2, 9, 16 & 23 Aug Design and make a funky wristband.

Wed 3, 10, 17 & 24 Aug Be a champion and make a medal or a trophy.

Thu 4, 11, 18 & 25 Aug Create your own arty masterpiece. FREE. Donations towards the redevelopment of Wardown Park Museum welcome.

LEGO 5+

SUMMER SCHOOL

Every Mon, Wed & Thu from Aug 1 - Sep 1 10.15am, 11.45am, 1.45pm & 3.15pm, Stockwood Discovery Centre To celebrate The Brick Kingdom LEGO exhibition join in our myths and magic themed LEGO activities and take home a LEGO dragon. £10 per child, including exhibition entry. 50 mins approx

Arts Award Summer School 7-11

The Very Hungry Caterpillar 3-7

Mon 25 – Fri 29 Jul, 9.15am – 4pm, Stockwood Discovery Centre A packed week of arts and crafts including creating a willow lantern, soap carving, mask making and performance skills. Work with a professional artist to achieve Arts Award Discover or Explore qualifications. Advance booking required, call 01582 548600. £115 for the week Visit Stockwood Discovery Centre this summer, it’s a fun day out for the whole family!

There’s a children’s adventure play area, exhibitions, bee gallery, landscaped gardens, cafe and much more to discover. FREE ENTRY

Tue 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 Aug, 11am – 12pm, Stockwood Discovery Centre Ahead of the upcoming show of The Very Hungry Caterpillar, join us to read one of the most famous children’s books of all time and make your very own caterpillar to take home. £3, accompanying adult free

We’re Going On A Bear Hunt 3-9 Tue 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 Aug, 2 – 3pm, Stockwood Discovery Centre To celebrate the upcoming performance of We’re Going on A Bear Hunt, join us as we explore nature in our gardens and read the book by Michael Rosen. Bring your own teddy bear! £3, accompanying adult free

Box Office: 01582 878100 (Mon – Fri, 11am – 6pm) Booking fees may apply

l

Online Bookings: www.lutonculture.com To advertise: 01727 373929

July/August 2016

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EDUCATION NEWS

Pink Pig Photography www.pinkpigphotography.co.uk

Professional photography Family and newborn with a personal approach specialists Studio based children’s birthday parties

01525 633774

At Explore Learning, our passion is to help students achieve their potential and be the best they can be.

We get to know each child as an individual and help them to fall in love with learning. Our goal - to build confident, fearless learners who are hungry for knowledge. We’ve delivered award-winning maths and English tuition to over 175,000 children across the UK. Our award-winning approach has a proven record of supporting children both academically and attitudinally. Celebrating children’s achievements is an extremely important thing.

This summer we’re encouraging children and parents to learn new skills together, and to get excited about showing off what they have learned in our centres and back at school in September.

Look out for their stories on Explore Learning’s social media channels and website at www.explorelearning.co.uk

Stick on Clothing Labels: the quick & easy way to label your children’s clothing

How to help your child transfer to secondary school

By Liat Hughes Joshi During the months before your little one makes the big move to secondary school, it’s recommended that you begin the following…

Ramp up responsibilities Senior school children have to be considerably more responsible for their own belongings and themselves. Whereas primary school teachers send letters to parents, at ‘big’ school, communication on day-to-day issues might well be to your child only.

Begin building independence out and about Most secondary school pupils travel to school minus mum and dad, so get yours used to being out without you. It’ll be less daunting for them if this starts on the journey to primary school, rather than being thrown into travelling alone on a lesser-known route.

Listen out for concerns Some children take this huge change in their stride and are ready to move on, while others will feel anxious. Common concerns include getting lost around a much larger school, dealing with the journey, making new friends and managing the homework load.

Attend settling-in days Most secondaries hold a session for new joiners, usually during the summer term of year six. This is an important opportunity to get to

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July/August 2016

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

Get ready early for back to school this year with name labels for clothing, ties and uniforms. Stick on labels is the easy way to label clothing - no ironing or sewing necessary! Just stick the adhesive name label onto the care label of what you want to label and you’re finished.

High-quality labels made to order in the UK. Developed especially for clothes and with strong adhesion to last many washes. Many other alternative name labels also available and personalised gifts including major brands like Disney, Mattel and Nickelodeon.

Labels4Kids is an award winning family business that has been selling name labels online since 2004. Since 2014, Labels4Kids also supplies John Lewis with school name labels.

Order early, beat the rush and get some peace of mind this summer.

Labels4Kids – because kids lose stuff. www.labels4kids.com/fam know the buildings, potential classmates and teachers and it should make the first day less intimidating. Here are a few tips to keep in mind once your child has started secondary school…

Expect them to be tired and emotional…

Many year sevens get very tired thanks to the ‘newness’, on top of a longer day and a more complicated journey. Stick to early nights and restful weekends to fend off exhaustion – and the moodiness that goes with this.

Get super-organised with homework At primary, pupils might only have had a small amount of homework; expect the game to be raised now. Not only will there be more but keeping on top of when it all needs handing in can be complicated.

Get used to knowing much less about what goes on In primary, you might well have been at the school gates most days and familiar with your child’s friends, parents and teachers. This will change: with independent travel comes a more hands-off approach.

Be there for them It’s tempting to think this independence means you’re being made redundant come September but they’ll still need you - albeit in different ways. Be there as a sounding board - someone to listen and advise.

Adrian Moorhouse interview Olympian Adrian Moorhouse talks to Families

“By 15 I was swimming twenty hours a week. I was tired and my schoolwork suffered, although I did ok at what we now call GCSEs. But on the positive side, I had massive progress in swimming at the age of 15. I won the national age groups for my age but I also came second in the senior championships.

At the age of 15 I was on the junior and senior British team.”

“From the age of 16 I became the British number one for men. By 17 I was third in Europe and by 18 I had won the Commonwealth Games.”

“I had reached the pinnacle of success in 1986 at the age of 22 when I was world number one, at 23 I broke the world record and at 24 I got gold at Seoul and I had even better years after that. I competed in two other Olympics, 1992 was my last Olympics and I retired at 28.”

Adrian has commentated on Olympic swimming since 1998 and will be at Rio this year. He has high hopes for the British swimming team.

“I am really happy to be commentating at Rio. A fantastic British swimmer, Adam Peaty, has recently won the European Championships. He’s also a breaststroker and won the World Championships last year. So he goes into Rio in the same position I was in, when I won the gold at Seoul.”

We turned to discussing being a parent and how to encourage our kids in sport.

With the Rio Olympics only a matter of weeks away, Claire Winter talks to Olympian Adrian Moorhouse MBE about life after winning gold.

“Our job is to support and create an environment where they feel cared for because it should be the coach who challenges them and pushes them and give them feedback on their stroke, running or throwing.”

Adrian Moorhouse MBE was a world champion at 22, and Olympic gold medallist in the 100m breaststroke at Seoul two years later. He now uses the skills he learned as a swimmer in his performance coaching business, Lane4 (www.lane4performance.com/) based in Bourne End, Bucks.

“You have parents who see that their child is talented but if their child doesn’t want do it – they won’t succeed. They’ve got to want it themselves, you have to create opportunity, find out what someone is passionate about and also recognise that it might not be your passion or interest.”

Having learned to swim at the age of six, he went on to swim for his teacher’s club, then for his school in Yorkshire. It all changed when he started swimming for the City of Leeds Swimming Club.

“Equally you need to teach your children about staying power. You’ve got to help kids look at focus and commitment. Try and find out why they don’t want to do something and give them a reason to continue with it.”

LEARN TO SWIM WITH...

SWIMMING CRASH COURSES 15th-19th August, 22nd-26th August and 29th August -2nd September From ages 4+, beginner, improver and advanced courses. Contact the centre to book a space.

This facility is managed in Partnership with

Houghton Regis Leisure Centre

Parkside Drive, Houghton Regis, Beds LU5 5PY 01582 866 141

aquaed.houghton@sllco.uk

To advertise: 01727 373929

July/August 2016

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What’s on Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press deadline or if we got it wrong.

Please send events to be listed to: editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

JULY The Wizard of Oz Friday 1 July 6pm National Trust Dovecote and Stables, Church End, Willington Open Air Theatre presented

by Immersion Theatre. Tickets: 0844 249 1895. Info: www. nationaltrust.org.uk/ willington-dovecote-andstables/whats-on

Sundon Village Summer Extravaganza Saturday 2 July 12pm-4pm Upper Sundon Recreation Ground, Upper Sundon, LU3 3PE Funfair rides, bungee trampoline, pony rides, bouncy castles, live bands, boogie bounce sessions, samba dancing. BBQ, dog show, Indian food, craft stalls. Free parking, limited disabled access.

Art competition Exhibition Saturday 2 JulySunday 28 August The Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford. Display of children’s entries from Harpur Trust’s 450th Art Exhibition Competition.

Info: http://www.harpurtrust. org.uk/450th/art-competition/ Beatrix Potter Day Saturday 2 July, 11-11.45am, Leagrave Library; 2.15-3pm, Marsh Farm Library. Saturday 9 July, 11-11.45am, Luton Central Library; 2.15-3pm, Stopsley Library. Drop in, enjoy tales of Peter Rabbit old and new.

Military Pageant Sunday 3 July, gates open at 9am. Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden Aerodrome, nr Biggleswade. Military Pageant, dedicated to recognising the armed forces, past and present.

Info: www.shuttleworth.org Music on a Sunday Afternoon Sunday 3 July, 10, 17 July, 24 & 31 July, 12pm-4pm. Wrest Park, Silsoe, MK45 4HR Enjoy your very own theme tune to your day out July/August 2016

Sunday Band Concerts Sunday 3,10, 24,& 31 July & Sunday 7, & 14 August, 2 pm to 4.15 pm. Grove House Gardens, Dunstable Music in the Park Sunday 3 July-Sunday 18 September (except August Bank Holiday), 3-5pm. Parsons Close Recreation Ground, Leighton Buzzard. Sunday afternoon band concerts. Free admission.

Info: www.leightonlinslade-tc. gov.uk/musicinthepark/

Ampthill Festival Friday 1 July – Sunday 3 July Ampthill Great Park, Ampthill Rock festival, Proms, and Gala Day across one weekend! Info: www.ampthillfestival.co.uk

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at Wrest Park this summer as your afternoon is accompanied by a musical treat each week.

Info: www.english-heritage.org. uk/visit/places/wrest-park/events

Shefford Annual Duck Race Sunday 3 July, 12pm-4pm.

Bangkok Lounge Garden, Bedford Road, Shefford. Family fun afternoon in its 19th year for Acorn Pre-School. Sponsor a Duck to race down the river, stalls, face painting, bouncy castle. Info: Andrea, Acorn Pre-School tel: 01462 816281.

Bedford Race for Life Sunday 3 July, 11am Priory Park, Barkers Lane, Bedford Cancer Research UK’S Race for Life 5k & 10k. Info: http://raceforlife. cancerresearchuk.org/index.html Luton Live Saturday 9 July, 12 noon - 4pm St George’s Square, Luton Family friendly entertainment.

Info: http://lutonbid.org/ Capability Brown Weekend Saturday 9 – Sunday 10 July, 11am -5pm. Wrest Park, Silsoe, MK45 4HR. 2016 marks 300 years since the birth of famed garden landscape designer Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown. To celebrate we are hosting timed tours of the Wrest Park gardens showcasing the Capability Brown elements for garden enthusiasts; a self-guided trail for both adults and children to find out interesting facts about Capability Brown and children can try out landscaping for themselves in our sand pits! Info: www.english-heritage.org.uk/ visit/places/wrest-park/events Regency Garden Party Sunday 10 July, 12 noon -5.30pm. Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden Aerodrome, nr Biggleswade.

Regency themed event with storytelling, croquet on the lawn, crafts and performances. Info: www.shuttleworth.org

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

Eid Festival Sunday 10 July, 12noon-6pm Dunstable Downs, Dunstable.

Info: www.nationaltrust.org. uk/dunstable-downs-andwhipsnade-estate Bunyan Inspired Exhibition Tuesday 12 July-Saturday 1 October (opens Tues-Sat, 11am4pm). John Bunyan Museum & Library, Bunyan Meeting, Mill Street, Bedford. Free exhibition of artwork created by the students of Creative Futures Art Group, and inspired by objects from John Bunyan Museum & Library’s collection. More info: tel: 01234 270303; email curator@ bunyanmeeting.co.uk; or see www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk/ museum Bedford River Festival Saturday 16 July - Sunday 17 July The Embankment, Bedford Community & Festival Parade, Dragon Boats, Mooring, Raft Races.

Special train services on the Marston Vale Rail Line. Late evening Fireworks Flyer leaves Bedford at 23.10 on the Saturday night. Direct services to Milton Keynes Central on the Sunday afternoon. Info: www. bedfordcornexchange.co.uk/ outdoorevents/ Train info: www.marstonvalecommunityrail. org.uk/ Summer Art Exhibition & sale at Stotfold Watermill Friday 15 July-Sunday 17 July, 12.30pm-5pm Stotfold Mill, Mill Lane, Stotfold.

Paintings by local artists from fine art to contemporary, pastel to watercolour. |nfo: www.stotfoldmill.com Email enquiries@stotfoldmill.com Meet the BFG Saturday 16 July, 9.30-10.15, Luton Central Library; 11am, Leagrave Library; 2.15pm, Marsh Farm, Library; 4pm, Lewsey Library. Launch of the Summer Reading Challenge with the BFG. Free entry, no booking required.

At Home with Shuttleworth Saturday 16 July, gates open 10am. Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden Aerodrome, nr Biggleswade. Agricultural vehicles display and flying throughout the day. More info: www.shuttleworth.org Party in the Park Saturday 16 July, 12 noon-8 pm Grove House Gardens, Dunstable Family fun event. Info: www. dunstable.gov.uk/events

Music In the Garden: a Dankworth Family Festival Saturday 16-Sunday 17 July, 12.30pm onwards The Old Rectory, Wavendon Alec, Emily Dankworth and Dame Cleo Laine perform.Tickets: www.skiddle.com Canterbury Tales Saturday 16, 6pm & Sunday 17 July, 1pm. RSPB, The Lodge, Potton. Outdoor performance with the Pantaloon Players.

Tickets: tel. 01767 693333 or www.thepantaloons.co.uk/ Sense and Sensibility Wednesday 20 July, gates open 6.30pm. Wrest Park, Silsoe, MK45 4HR. Chapterhouse outdoor theatre production of Sense and Sensibility. Bring a picnic blanket or low back chair to watch the performance - and be prepared for the British weather! Info: http://www.english-heritage.org. uk/visit/places/wrest-park/events Search for the Purple Emperor Butterfly Thursday 21 July, 10.30am-1pm Rammamere Heath & Kings Wood, Park, Stockgrove Country Park, Brickhill Road, Heath and Reach. Walk with Countryside Ranger to spot buttlerflies.

Booking essential: Tel: 01525 234260. Email: info@greensandtrust.org or www.greensandtrust.org/ Art Exhibition Wednesday 20-Thursday 21 July St John’s Hospice, Moggerhanger Info: www.sueryder.org/stjohns Bedfringe Thursday 21-Saturday 30 July The Quarry Theatre, St Peter’s Street, Bedford. Family friendly theatre events in Bedford. More info: http:// bedfringe.com/events/ Meet the Superheros!

Saturday 23 July & Sunday 24 July. Leighton Buzzard Railway, Pages Park Station, Billington Road, Leighton Buzzard. Comicbook superhero characters at the railway. Info: www.buzzrail.co.uk The Brick Kingdom – Exhibition Saturday 23 July-Sunday 4 September, 10am-5pm.

Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road, Luton. Exhibition of medieval fantasy LEGO models!

Dahl’s Favourite Friends – The BFG Saturday 23 July, 11-11.45, Luton Central Library; 2.15pm, Stopsley Library. Tuesday 26 July,

What’s on 11-11.45pm, Lewsey Library.

Thursday 28 July, 11am, Leagrave Library; 2.15pm, Marsh Farm Library. Celebrate Dahl characters.

For ages 5 plus.

Glow worm walk Saturday 23 July, 10.15pm23.59pm. Dunstable Downs, Dunstable. Info: www. nationaltrust.org.uk/dunstabledowns-and-whipsnade-estate Family Focus Weekend Saturday 23-Sunday 24 July Willen Lake, Milton Keynes Feast of family-friendly shows and experiences for children and grown-ups. Part of Milton Keynes International Festival (15-24 July).

Info: www.ifmiltonkeynes.org Summer Fair and Fund Raiser Saturday 23 July,11am-3pm Sundon Park Junior School, Kinross Crescent, Luton Free admission. Bouncy castle, jungle assault course, stalls and entertainment. Raffle, where all proceeds go to SANDS (www.uk-sands.org/).

Zoorassic Park Saturday 23 July – Sunday 4 September. ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, Dunstable. A raptor-ous day out.

Info: www.zsl.org/ Comedy Club for Kids Sunday 24 July, 2pm The Stables Spiegeltent, South Willen Park Lake. Suitable for ages 6+. Info: www.ifmiltonkeynes.org Heritage Day Sunday 24 July, 11am-5pm Harpur Square, Bedford Fun day celebrating history, heritage and culture. Includes The Vikings at 11am by the Bedford Chronicles. Free entry.

Info: www.lovebedford.co.uk Animal Edutainment Monday 25 July, 10.30am, Potton Library. Monday 8 August, 9.30am, Leagrave Library; Tuesday 9 August, 11.30am, Stopsley Library; 2pm, Marsh Farm Library. Friday 12 August, 11am, Lewsey Library. Saturday 13 August, 11am, Luton Central Library; 1pm, Bury Park Library.

Meet creatures great and small from Esio Trot to James’ minibeast friends. Suitable for ages 3 plus. £3.50 per child. Contact the library directly to book.

Interactive tours – Bedford Chronicles Monday 25 July – Friday 5 August Town Centre, Bedford Join actors and guides as

they take you on a tour of Bedford’s past. Info: www. bedfordchronicles.co.uk/ towntours.html Working Wednesdays Wednesday 27 July, 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 August, 12 noon-2pm Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road, Luton Chance to see all the stationary engines in full working glory.

Free entry.

The King with Dirty Feet Wednesday 27 July, 10.15am & 11.30am. Potton Library Widdershins Theatre present a fabulous story. £1, book directly with the library.

Minibeast Safari Tuesday 28 July, Wednesday 3 August, Thursday 11 August, Tuesday 16 August, Thursday 24 August. Wednesday 31 August, 11am-12.30pm RSPB, The Lodge, Potton Booking essential. £5 per child, for ages 4-10 years.

Tel: 01767 693333.

Birthday Party!

Friday 29 July, 2pm Potton Library Celebrate 60 years of Potton Library. Fancy dress competition at 2pm with book characters theme.

The Little Gardener Friday 29 July , 1pm & 3pm, Saturday 30 July, 11am & 1pm.

Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road, Luton Adaptation of popular children’s book. For ages 3 plus.

Tickets: www.lutonculture.com

Tiger Charity Weekend Saturday 30 & Sunday 31 July Woburn Safari Park Fundraising event in support of the Amur Leopard and Tiger Alliance.

The mission is to raise funds for conservation projects in the wild and in captivity that will help prevent the extinction of the Amur Tiger and Leopard species. It’s a

JOHN BUNYAN MUSEUM

Bedford

.................................................................................................................................

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DISCOVER THE BEDFORD MAN WHOSE WRITINGS TOUCHED THE WORLD... ............................................................................................................

Family friendly trails A warm welcome School holiday fun School and group visits Open February to October half-terms* Tue to Sat, 11am to 4pm *Closed Good Friday

............................................................................................................

Bunyan Meeting, Mill Street, Bedford, MK40 3EU www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk/museum

01234 270303

Drama Summer School

Monday 25th - Friday 29th July with Up-Stage Theatre Company at The Rufus Centre, Flitwick

Suitable for children & young people aged 6+

10am - 4pm each day (bring packed lunch) plus Friday Night Performance of “Peter Pan” to Family & Friends £85 per child for the week

Includes 2 FREE Tickets to the Performance, Professional Coaching, FREE Logo’d T-Shirt, Art Materials to Make Scenery & MORE!

Box Office 01525 631900 (must pre-book)

Full Summer Programme available via www.flitwick.gov.uk RSPB’s Big Wild Sleepout Friday 29 – Sunday 31 July RSPB, The Lodge, The Heath, Kite Festival Potton. Spend a night under the Saturday 30 & Sunday 31 great chance to come along and Families Bedfordshire Ad_Drama_July16.indd 1 stars with the RSPB. Info: July, 11-5pm. Dunstable 17/06/2016 join in the tiger-themed fun, www.rspb.org.uk/sleepout Downs, Dunstable. Info: meet the two young Amur tiger www.nationaltrust.org. cubs living in Kingdom of the Meet Peter Rabbit uk/dunstable-downs-andCarnivores and take a Mini VIP Saturday 30 July, 11am, whipsnade-estate trip for a brilliant discounted rate Leagrave Library; 2.15pm, Marsh of only £10 per person with all Farm Library; Sunday 31 July, proceeds going to the Amur Tiger 11.30am, Luton Central Library.

Conservation project. Info: www.

Monday 1 August, 11am, Lewsey Library; 2.15pm, Stopsley woburnsafari.co.uk/events/ amur-tiger-charity-weekendLibrary. Free, for all ages.

30-31st-july/ Summer Fete Linslade Canal Festival Saturday 30 July, 12 noon-4pm Saturday 30 July, 11am-5pm Colworth Park, Sharnbrook Info: www.colworthparkevents.co.uk/ Tiddenfoot Waterside Park, Mentmore Road, Linslade, Leighton Buzzard. Rural craft Canal Festival Trains demonstrations, narrow boats, Saturday 30 July. Leighton handcraft stalls, activities and Buzzard Railway, Pages Park entertainment. Info: Station, Billington Road, Leighton www.leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk/ Buzzard. Info: www.buzzrail.co.uk canal-festival-2016/ To advertise: 01727 373929

July/August 2016

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What’s on AUGUST Mischief and Mayhem Tuesday 2 August, 11am, Bury Park Library; Wednesday 3 August, 11am, Stopsley Library Thursday 4 August, Luton Central Library. Fun and games suitable for ages 5 plus.

Royal Rumpus Thursday 4 August, 2.30-3.30pm Toddington Library Royal themed arts and crafts.

Willow Workshop Friday 5 August, 10.30am2.30pm. Jordans Mill, Holme Mills, Langford Road, Broome Drop-in crafts. Info: www.jordansmill.com Nature Activity Sessions From Saturday 6 August, then first Saturday of each month until October, 11 am – 3 pm Visitor Centre, RSPB, The Lodge, Potton. Outdoor seasonal activities at the Lodge (weather permitting).

You are the Champion Saturday 6 August, 11am, Luton Central Library; Stopsley Library, 4.15pm. Games and activities, suitable for ages 5 plus. Free.

Classic Car & Bike Show Sunday 7 August, 12noon-4pm Rufus Centre, Steppingley Road, Flitwick. Cars & bikes, children’s activities, including magic show at 1pm & 2pm, and auto jumble.

Adults £3; children free. More info tel: 01525 631900.

Edwardian Pageant Sunday 7 August, gates open 9am. Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden Aerodrome, nr Biggleswade.

Fabulous vintage aircraft. Info: www. shuttleworth.org Model Railway Day Sunday 7 August Leighton Buzzard Railway, Pages Park Station, Billington Road, Leighton Buzzard Working model railway display.

Info: www.buzzrail.co.uk Gifts For All Occasions Craft Fair #6 Sunday 7 August, 11am-3pm The Weatherley Centre, Biggleswade. 60 stalls, free entry.

Raffle and refreshments. Special appearance from Footballer Minion. All profits in aid of St. Trizah School in Nakuru, Kenya.

Wild West Tuesday 9 August, 2.30-3.30pm Toddington Library. Arts and crafts with a wild west theme.

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July/August 2016

Summer Fun Teddy Bears’ Picnic Friday 12 August Rushmere Country Park, Leighton Buzzard, LU7 0EB. £12.50 per child including picnic box. Book tel: 01525 234260.

Concert in the Park Saturday 13 August, 5-11pm Rushmere Country Park, Linslade Road, Leighton Buzzard Tickets: www.eventbrite.co.uk Beautiful Butterflies Saturday 13 August, 2-4pm Dunstable Downs, Dunstable Info: www.nationaltrust.org. uk/dunstable-downs-andwhipsnade-estate Luton Live Saturday 13 August, 12 noon4pm. St George’s Square, Luton Family friendly entertainment.

Info: http://lutonbid.org/ Busk Till Dusk Saturday 13 August, 3pm -10pm. St John’s Hospice, Moggerhanger. Music festival.

Tickets: www.sueryder.org/ busktilldusk Horrid Henry’s Big Friendly Visit Saturday 13 August, 11am, Leagrave Library; 2.15pm, Marsh Farm Library. Monday 15 August, 10.30am, Farley Library; 1.30pm, Hockwell Library; 3.15pm, Chaul End Library.

Access Points. Free, drop-in.

Capability Brown Weekend Saturday 13 - Sunday 14 August, 11am - 5pm Wrest Park, Silsoe, MK45 4HR Celebration of the birth of famed garden landscape designer Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown 300 years ago. Info: www.englishheritage.org.uk/visit/places/ wrest-park Summer Fayre and Fun Dog Show Sunday 14 August Rushmere Country Park, Leighton Buzzard. Free entry. Info: www. greensandtrust.org/events.html Country Fayre Sunday 14 August, 11am4.30pm St John’s Hospice, Moggerhanger Country fayre. Info: www.sueryder.org/countryfayre Pirates and Mermaids Thursday 18 August Toddington Library Arts and crafts with watery theme.

Summer Fun Saturday 20- Friday 26 August St George’s Square, Luton

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

Beach, fairground rides, face painting, donkey rides & more!

Info: http://lutonbid.org Dunstable Rocks Saturday 20 August, 2-9pm Grove House Gardens, Dunstable Live music. www.Dunstable.gov.uk Flying Proms Saturday 20 August, gates open 12noon. Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden Aerodrome, nr Biggleswade.

Aerial displays, live music and fireworks! Info: www.shuttleworth.org 50th Annual Sandy Show Saturday 20 August, 12noon 5pm. Sandye Place Academy, Park Road, Sandy. Punch & Judy, face painting, fairground rides, birds of prey, animal encounters. Exhibits of prize winning horticulture incl. fruit, veg, floral art and plants, crafts, home brewing and home baking. Admission £1 with accompanied children. Info: www.thesandyshow.org.uk Marvellous Inventions Saturday 20 August, 11am, Luton Central; Library; 2.15pm, Stopsley Library. Discover some of Roald Dahl’s marvellous inventions. Ages 4 plus.

Princesses & Pirates Sunday 21 August Leighton Buzzard Railway, Pages Park Station, Billington Road, Leighton Buzzard. Children in fancy dress travel free of charge.

Info: www.buzzrail.co.uk Gobblefunk! Snozzcucumbers!

Wednesday 24 August, 11am, Stopsley Library; Thursday 25 August, 2.15pm, Lewsey Library; Saturday 27 August, 11am, Leagrave Library; 2.15pm, Marsh Farm Library. Join in fun and games to invent new words. Ages 4 plus. Free.

TUSK Evening Charity Event Thursday 25 August Woburn Safari Park. An extra special evening of family entertainment. Get exclusive after-hours access to the park and discover a magical evening of animal encounters. Tickets include: A guided coach tour of the Road Safari; an woodland walk with the elephants and their keepers, taking you into the elephants’ own private playground on the Duke of Bedford’s private estate; a talk on TUSK’s conservation work in Africa by founder; Charlie Mayhew

MBE; delicious BBQ meal and two drinks from the bar in The Safari Lodge. All profits from the event will be donated to TUSK and will support selected conservation programmes. Info: www. woburnsafari.co.uk/events/ tusk-charity-evening-safari/ Family Fun Day Thursday 25 August, 11am3pm. Rufus Centre, Steppingley Road, Flitwick. Bring your own picnic and enjoy a fabulous family fun day! Entry includes 3 tokens for attractions including pony rides, Ark Farm and inflatables.

Children £4; adults free! More info tel: 01525 631900.

Roald Dahl Thursday 25 August, 10.3011.30. Toddington Library Celebrate all things Roald Dahl.

Peter Pan Thursday 25 August, gates open 5.30pm Shuttleworth Collection, Old Warden Aerodrome, nr Biggleswade. Open air garden theatre with Chapterhouse Theatre.

Bring a blanket and a picnic! Info: www.shuttleworth.org Romeo and Juliet Friday 26 August, 7pm Gulliver’s Travels: Saturday 27 August, 6pm. RSPB, The Lodge, Potton. Outdoor performances with The Pantaloons. Tickets: tel. 01767 693333 or www. thepantaloons.co.uk/ Bank Holiday Band Sunday 28 & Monday 29 August, 12noon-4pm Wrest Park, Silsoe, MK45 4HR Enjoy music in the stunning surroundings of Wrest Park.

Info: www.english-heritage.org. uk/visit/places/wrest-park War Department Light Railways Centenary 28, 29 & 31 August; 1, 3 & 4 September. Leighton Buzzard Railway, Pages Park Station, Billington Road, Leighton Buzzard.

Recreation of WW1 rail-served supply base. Info: www.buzzrail.co.uk Beach Days Tuesday 30 August, 2.303.30pm. Toddington Library.

Beachy arts and crafts!

Hoo Kids Book Fest Summer Day Wednesday 31 August, 10.30am-3.30pm Luton Hoo Walled Garden, Luton Children’s book festival. Info: www.lutonhooestate.co.uk/ events/event-number-3

What’s on

The 90 acres of gardens at English Heritage's Wrest Park in Bedfordshire never fail to impress, and this summer they are alive not only with gorgeous plants but exciting activities for all the family to enjoy!

Advertorial At the Capability Brown Weekend events, hosted on Saturday 9 – Sunday 10 July and Saturday 13 - Sunday 14 August, there will be a celebration for the famed garden landscape designer Lancelot 'Capability' Brown’s 300th birthday! There are hosted timed tours of the grounds at Wrest Park, children have the chance to try landscaping themselves with specially designed sand pits and there is even a tethered hot air balloon that will allow you to see the great man’s handiwork from a unique aerial view (over 7s only). There is no better way to honour the ‘Year of the Garden’ than at Wrest Park!

Each Sunday throughout July visitors can enjoy their very own theme tune to their day out at Music on a Sunday Afternoon. The summer afternoon will be accompanied by a new musical treat each week, whether sharing a picnic or taking a joyful summertime walk in the sparkling surroundings, this event is the ideal way to relax. Come back in the evening and let the skilled actors of the Chapterhouse Theatre Company entertain you as they ‘tread the boards’ at a stunning performance of famed period drama Sense & Sensibility on Wednesday 20 July.

July and August sees the children’s summer holidays in full swing, and Wrest Park is full to bursting with events to keep them entertained.

Children can learn how to create maps and tell the time by using a sundial in Victorian Explorers on Monday 25 - Friday 29 July. On Monday 1 Friday 5 August join the Ugly Bug Safari, grab a magnifying glass and join in the big hunt for some mini beasts and discover a bug’s life, followed by Awesome Archaeology on Monday 8 - Friday 12 August, where kids can go on a mini dig for the day and get their hands dirty uncovering hidden treasures. Children can exercise those green fingers and get their hands dirty by coming along to Garden Explorers on Monday 15 - Friday 19 August. If you are fascinated by the world of all things that creep and crawl then Nature Detectives on Monday 22 - Friday 26 August is for you! Come along and introduce yourself to the smallest residents of Wrest Park.

Relax into the August long weekend at Bank Holiday Band and pull up a deckchair to enjoy live music in the beautiful garden surroundings Sunday 28 and Monday 29 August.

Wrest Park, Silsoe, Bedfordshire, MK45 4HR. Website: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/wrest-park/events

To advertise: 01727 373929

July/August 2016

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Fruity treats for kids 3. Fruity Summer Rolls

Fruity treats your child will love

Usually filled with tofu, herbs and noodles, they are a great snack and if you can find the rice paper wrappers in a local oriental food supplier, you can not only make those but also these amazing fruity rolls, perfect for lunch boxes.

By Sally J Hall

1. Fruity sticks Great for a lunchbox treat, these colourful snacks will soon disappear!

You will need:

You will need: • •

•

3 thin plastic straws Mixture of fruit such as grapes, strawberries, kiwi fruit, pineapple, banana, apple Lemon or lime juice

How to make: 1. Cut the larger fruit into squares and squeeze some lime or lemon juice over them to prevent them from going brown.

2. Push the straws through the pieces of fruit one at a time – make sure you mix up the colours to make it look extra special.

Note: Children who are under four should not be offered whole grapes because of the danger of choking.

2. Snowy Strawberries This one is super easy and great to get the kids helping in the kitchen.

Ideal for summer snacks, they can be kept in the freezer and brought out after a hot day at school.

You will need:

• •

• •

Rice paper wrappers Mixture of summer fruit; watermelon, strawberries, apple, pear, peach, mango, kiwi fruit etc.

Mint leaves (optional) Lime juice

How to make: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Take the fruit you are going to use, wash and peel if necessary, then cut into very small cubes.

Drizzle with lime juice over the fruit to prevent browning and stir well to combine the fruits together.

Add a few small or torn mint leaves if your child likes them.

Place a small pile of the fruit at the centre of a rice paper wrapper. Roll one side in, then the two ends and finally roll it up.

Lay it on the open side to stop it falling open.

If you like you can tie it with a chive or a small piece of string but this should be taken off before your child eats it.

Place a few rolls in a small lunch box for your child’s packed lunch.

Sally J. Hall is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and contributing author to Watch My Baby Grow (Dorling Kindersley).

• 1 punnet strawberries • 1 large pot Greek yoghurt How to make: 1. Wash the strawberries and trim the stalks and leaves off each one.

2. Put some of the Greek yoghurt in a bowl and roll each strawberry in the yoghurt. Lay them on a flat baking tray.

3. When you have covered all the fruit with the yoghurt, place the tray in the freezer on an empty shelf and leave to freeze overnight. You can then take them off the tray and store them in freezer bags until needed.

Discounted Park tickets online at woburnsafari.co.uk

TIGER THEMED CHARITY WEEKEND 30TH-31ST JULY

NEW!

ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS AND ADORABLE BABY ANIMALS

MAKE SOME NEW FRIENDS THIS SUMMER Just off J13 of the M1 or the A5 (MK43 0XB or MK17 9QN). Open from 10am to last entry at 5pm, closing at 6pm. www.woburnsafari.co.uk info@woburnsafari.co.uk Telephone: 01525 290407

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July/August 2016

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

10/06/2016 08:50