Families Cambridgeshire January/February 22

F R TAKE EE ME H OME

IN THIS ISSUE

WIN a Stokke Tripp Trapp® Chair worth £199

Issue 68 January/February 2022

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Contents & Competition

Dear Reader,

Welcome to the first edition of 2022. A New year, new things, new skills, new places, new plans, new experiences and lots of firsts for little ones. I know many of you will feel like hibernating for most of January after overindulging and over-spending during the festive season but we at Families have other ideas.

We have managed to find lots of things going on in Cambridgeshire to get you out and about this month.

Twilight at the Museum is my favourite event this time of year, as darkness falls the museums of Cambridge Usually open their doors into the night for lots of family events that are FREE! This year all events are online www.museums.cam.ac.uk/twilight Don’t forget to mention Families Cambridgeshire if you attend an event listed or join one of the clubs and classes. Wishing you all a Happy New Year!

What's in this issue?

Wise w ords “There are far, far b things a etter head th an any we leav e behin d.”

– C.S. L ewis

facebook.com/famcambsmag DON’T MISS A COPY! Receive Families Cambridgeshire by post for just £9.30 for 6 issues (1 year) or £18 for 12 issues (2 years). Call or email editor@familiesCambridgeshire.co.uk for a subscription form.

A STOKKE TRIPP TRAPP® CHAIR WORTH £199 Along with Families Oxfordshire Magazine, we are giving our readers the chance to win a Tripp Trapp® Chair worth an incredible £199.00. With a timeless, quality design and the ability to grow with your child, the Tripp Trapp® chair’s intelligent, adjustable design will allow your child to have a comfortable and ergonomic seating position at any age. To enter, please visit our Facebook page @FamCambsMag and like and share our competition post. Good luck.

4. News & Views 6. Nursery Listings 7. Baby News 8. What's On 11. Childcare Challenges 13. Getting more involved with child development 15. What's On Clubs and Classes EDITOR: Lisa Exell 01945 861336, editor@familiesCambridgeshire.co.uk ASSISTANT EDITOR: Amanda Dawson, admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk SOCIAL MEDIA: Amanda Dawson, admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk DESIGN: Caroline Thompson-Heap, info@cheekymonkeydesigns.net Families Cambridgeshire is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Cambridgeshire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Cambridgeshire. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Cambridgeshire its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

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News & Views

Does Covid increase allergies?

If you feel like you have had more allergies and greater reactions to food and the environment since having Covid, then you are certainly not alone.

We have seen countless people whose allergies have been exacerbated or reignited since contracting the virus. We now see many babies with complex multiple allergies and food/environmental reactions whose mummies had Covid when they were pregnant or during the first trimester. So, I suspect this pesky virus is upregulating allergies in both mother and baby. Not just the classic peanut, egg and milk allergies but an increase in reactions to “healthy” foods like tomatoes, avocadoes and bananas!

Random reactions to household cleaning products and skincare products.

Symptoms vary from classic allergy reactions like hives and swelling and sneezing through to more generalised rashes, feeling hot, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, muscle aches and pain, chest tightness and brain fog. It can affect sleep patterns and there can be lots of night waking.

This is because Coronavirus is known to cause a cytokine inflammatory storm which leads to mast cell activation and histamine release. There are several papers published on Pubmed about this phenomenon, and it seems to play a big role in those with Long Covid.

If you feel you are reacting to more foods/ environmental chemicals since having Covid, then you might want to consider some help from Mother Nature with some changes from a nutritional perspective.

• Vitamin C is a key nutrient for mast cell stabilisation • Magnesium helps make DAO (the digestive enzyme, diamine oxidase) which helps to break down histamine in the gut • Vitamin B6 again helps to make DAO • Try mushrooms such as Reishi, Cordyceps, Maitake and Agaricusblazei – these calm an overreactive immune system down • Quercetin stabilises the mast cell membranes & therefore reduces the release of histamine.

Lucinda Miller is the clinical lead of NatureDoc Clinic, a UK-wide nutrition clinic specialising in women’s and child nutrition.

She also runs NatureDoc.Shop online as well as being an author of two family cookbooks, The Good Stuff and I Can’t Believe It’s Baby Food.

St Mary’s Preschool opening is historic moment for the school

Help fund vital research by joining Wear A Hat Day!

Join thousands of children, parents and teachers on Friday 25th March for Wear A Hat Day– a great way to bring people together and raise vital funds for leading charity Brain Tumour Research.

Register your school, community or family event today: www.wearahatday.org and we’ll send you a free fundraising pack!

Coming at the end of March, Brain Tumour Awareness Month, several celebrities are supporting this hat tastic campaign.

The latest set of collectable Wear A Hat Day pin badges have a regal theme in celebration of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee year. Order your box of badges to sell during registration!

Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer.

This is unacceptable and Brain Tumour Research is determined to change this. Funds raised from Wear A Hat Day will help towards establishing a new Research Centre of Excellence. www.wearahatday.org 4 Families Cambridgeshire

A new Preschool at St Mary’s, Cambridge, has opened for the academic year 21/22 extending the independent school’s offering to girls aged as young as three for the first time in its 123-year history.

The Preschool, located on Chaucer Road, is set in the grounds of St Mary’s Junior School. An existing building was reconfigured, creating an Early Years Centre that includes space for Preschool, Reception and Year One students.

The three dedicated areas include a large room for free-flow activities for all Early Years children, which also acts as a base for Preschool pupils; a smaller room for structured teaching and Reception class activities; and a Year One classroom.

Jo Christian, Head of Juniors at St Mary’s, said: “It’s wonderful to have our new Preschool cohort in situ. Having a Preschool on-site ensures an even smoother transition into the Junior School and we can’t wait to see how our new girls flourish here at St Mary’s.”

Children attending St Mary’s Preschool follow individualised learning programmes tailored to their own developmental needs. Learning is predominantly based on experiential play, with support and challenge activities provided by dedicated Preschool teachers. There is some direct teaching, in small groups, with a focus on early phonics skills and mathematics, and lessons from specialist teachers, including computer science, music and woodwork.

To find out more go to: www.stmaryscambridge.co.uk/ or contact: admissions@stmaryscambridge.co.uk

Stimulating and challenging at Chestnut Nursery

Selecting a nursery for your child is one of the most important decisions a parent can make.

Chestnut Nursery Schools provide high quality childcare and pre-school education to meet the most exacting standards. They pride themselves on the level of care and attention your child will receive under their supervision. All activities are carefully planned from the Early Years Foundation Stage to meet every child’s individual needs, activities are stimulating, challenging and progressive. At Chestnut Nursery Schools, your child’s development, both mentally and physically, is incredibly important. Your child will be carefully observed, and their progress recorded, so that the next stage of activities can be planned for.

To find out more or arrange a visit go to www.chestnut-nursery.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

News & Views

Happy, Confident New Year from PERFORM

THE CHAIR THAT GROWS WITH THE CHILD IS A CHAIR FOR LIFE

Created by Norwegian designer Peter Opsvik in 1972, the Tripp Trapp® - the chair that grows with the child - revolutionized the entire children’s seating category. Brilliant in its simplicity, it is designed for every stage of childhood and beyond.

For over 40 years, millions of children around the world have grown-up using this iconic chair. The intelligent, adjustable design allows freedom of movement with both depthand height adjustable seat and footplates.

When adjusted correctly, your child is ensured a comfortable and ergonomic seating position at any age.

For more information on Stokke, visit www.stokke.com

Children’s Mental Health Week 2022

From 7th to 13th February, families across the UK are encouraged to take part in Children’s Mental Health Week with the theme Growing Together.

Growing Together is about growing emotionally and finding ways to help each other do the same.

Challenges and setbacks can help us to grow and adapt and trying new things can help us to move beyond our comfort zone into a new realm of possibility and potential.

Run by the children’s mental health charity Place2Be, children (and adults) are being asked to consider how they’ve grown, what they need to help them grow and how they can help others to grow too.

Around five children in every classroom have a mental health problem and many more struggle with challenges from bullying to bereavement.

Help raise funds to enable Place2Be to reach more people by organising a Dress to Express fundraiser.

Find FREE resources for parents and carers and more information at www.childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk

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Perform, the UK’s biggest centrally run drama school, is getting 2022 off to a flying start with a new term of classes focusing on building confidence and social skills.

How have your children adjusted after the pandemic? Many have struggled to reconnect and reestablish their old friendships and confidence. Child psychologist and author, Linda Blair, says that classes like these ‘can help children recover from social isolation as they encourage communication and effective social interactions. Drama helps a child’s ability to understand and interpret things like eye contact and can help in countless other ways both socially and cognitively.’

Fortunately, Perform classes are packed with confidence-boosting drama-based games and activities, allowing every child to shine as we explore two exciting termly themes.

Children ages 4 to 7 will trek off on a jungle adventure while ages 7 to 12 enjoy a thrilling adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. What’s more, Perform’s jungle theme becomes a West End musical during February half-term, featuring a professional adult cast, stunning costumes and fabulous music. Visit junglerumble.show To book a no-obligation FREE trial at Hills Road Sports Centre, Newnham Croft Primary School or St. Andrews Church Hall, Chesterton visit www.perform.org.uk/try using CAM70222 for a £40 discount when you book by 7th February.

More flexible approach to school starting age

Being young in a school class puts a child at a long-term disadvantage compared to their older peers according to new research.

The study by Kings College London, found that when children are the youngest in their class, they have a greater chance of experiencing educational problems, as well as social and even emotional complications.

These findings could help parents considering when to enrol their child in school.

Senior author Professor Jonna Kuntsi said ‘The difference between the youngest and oldest member of a class can be up to eleven months. In the early stages of childhood, this is a significant difference in terms of maturity, behaviour and cognitive abilities.’

The researchers are now calling for greater flexibility about school starting age.

More at www.kcl.ac.uk/news

More risky playgrounds are better for kids The British Children's Play Survey revealed recently that British society is becoming more protective of children, at a detriment to their ability to manage risk and their overall mental and physical health.

David Ball, a Professor of Risk Management at Middlesex University, said UK playgrounds were ‘over-sterilised.’

‘If you look at them only as a series of potential dangers, you’re missing something important’ he said.

By contrast, in Germany, playgrounds are being built to be dangerous, forcing children to negotiate perilous obstacles while risking injury if they fall.

According to Professor Rolf Schwarz of Karlsruhe University of Education, who works with councils and playground designers to develop challenging obstacles, 'safe' playgrounds prevent kids from learning how to handle risk in the early stages of their development.

'If we want children to be prepared for risk, we need to allow them to come into contact with risk,' said the Professor.

Families Cambridgeshire 5

Families Nursery Listings 2022 Helping you find the right place for your little ones - our 2022 guide to some of the nurseries local to Cambridgeshire with the latest Ofsted ratings, correct at the time we went to press.

ACE NURSERY SCHOOL, CAMBRIDGE.

www.ace-nursery-school.org.uk 01223 357181 (Ofsted Outstanding 2013) ALL SAINTS INTERCHURCH PRE-SCHOOL,MARCH.

www.allsaints.cambs.sch.uk 01354 659000 (Ofsted Good 2018) BLACKBERRY HOUSE DAY NURSERY, WISBECH.

www.blackberryhousedaynursery.co.uk 01945 428747 (Ofsted Good 2020)

BUSY BEES (Formerly Scallywags Day Nursery),

LITTLE TED’S DAY NURSERY, HADDENHAM.

www.busybeeschildcare.co.uk

MAGDALENE HOUSE PREP SCHOOL, WISBECH. www.wisbechgrammar.com/

Westwick Hall Farm.

01223 232400 (Ofsted Outstanding 2017) CHESTNUT NURSERY SCHOOLS

CHESTERTON. www.chestnut-nursery.co.uk/

nurseries/chesterton/ 01223 728390 (Ofsted Good 2019)

EMNETH NURSERY SCHOOL AND CHILDREN’S CENTRE.

01353 741765 (Ofsted Good 2017)

Prep-School 01945 583631

OAKS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL, CAMBRIDGE.

www.oaksinternationalschool.co.uk 01223 416938 (Ofsted Good 2019) PATACAKE NURSERY, CAMBRIDGE

www.emneth-nur.norfolk.sch.uk

(Sedley Court). www.pata-cake.co.uk 01223 411636

www.brighthorizons.co.uk 0330 057 4064 (Ofsted Good 2017)

FLUTTERBIES CHILDCARE, Benwick, March.

PERSE PELICAN NURSERY SCHOOL, CAMBRIDGE. www.perse.co.uk/pelican

BRIGHT HORIZONS WOLFSON COURT,

(Ofsted Good 2020)

SNAP4KIDS, Cambridge www.snap4kids.co.uk

BRIGHT HORIZONS CAMBRIDGE SCIENCE PARK - Science Park

MADINGLEY ROAD.

www.brighthorizons.co.uk 0330 057 4727 (Ofsted Outstanding 2018) BRIGHT HORIZONS ELY - Cambridgeshire

Business Park. www.brighthorizons.co.uk 0330 057 3559 (Ofsted Good 2021)

BRIGHT HORIZONS FULBOURN, Cambridge,

Capital Park, Cambridge. www.brighthorizons.co.uk 0333 920 3166 (Ofsted Outstanding 2020) BUNNYBROOKES DAY NURSERY -

Addenbrooke’s. www.brighthorizons.co.uk 0333 363 4489 (Ofsted Good 2020)

01945 582401 (Ofsted Outstanding 2019) www.flutterbieschildcare.com 01354 677733

01223 403940

HARVEY ROAD DAY NURSERY, Cambridge.

01223 477413 (Ofsted Good 2016)

01223 363860 (Ofsted Good 2019)

www.stmaryscambridge.co.uk 01223 311666 OPENED SEPTEMBER 2021

www.harveyroaddaynursery.org.uk HISTON EARLY YEARS CENTRE.

www.histon.cambs.sch.uk 01223 712075 (Ofsted Outstanding 2021)

HOMERTON EARLY YEARS CENTRE, CAMBRIDGE.

www.homerton.cambs.sch.uk

01223 508766 (Ofsted Outstanding 2021) LADYBIRDS DAY NURSERY, WISBECH.

01945 466667 (Ofsted Good 2017)

ST. MARYS PRE-SCHOOL, CAMBRIDGE.

THE MALTINGS DAY NURSERY,ELY.

www.themaltingsdaynursery.co.uk 01353 661442 (Ofsted Outstanding 2015) THE WILLOWS DAY NURSERY, CHATTERIS.

www.thewillowschatteris.co.uk 01354 461232 (Ofsted Good 2017)

WISBECH DAY NURSERY, WISBECH.

www.wisbechdaynursery.co.uk 01945 586966 (Ofsted Outstanding 2015)

Families Baby News

Top tips for new parents by GP Mummy Celebrity mum GP Dr Zoe Williams says becoming a parent is overwhelming but remember your baby just needs you!

Recent research, which was conducted by premium children’s brand, Stokke, found that almost three quarters (71%) of parents admitted to being reluctant to reach out and ask for help during the first few weeks, with 84% of parents shocked at how their life changed. When talking about parental frustrations, sleep deprivation was their biggest fear.

TOP 5 FRUSTRATIONS FOR NEW PARENTS PERCENTAGE (%) 1. Sleepless nights 62% 2. Trying to soothe a crying baby 40% 3. Never getting anything done 36% 4. Endless washing 31% 5. Unsolicited parenting advice 30%

Dr Zoe Williams, an NHS General Practitioner and a recent first-time mum, commented: “Becoming a parent for the first time is not only wonderful but it can be incredibly overwhelming. It’s not surprising that many parents lack confidence or feel guilty for not doing something advised by the experts. It’s important that parents remember to trust their instincts when it comes to baby. Mum (and dad) really do know best and unless you have any medical concerns, your baby just needs you. Enjoy getting to know the newest member of your family and remember to be kind to yourself and ask for help if you need it.” Dr Zoe Williams shared her top tips for parents welcoming their new baby:

2. HAVE PLENTY OF SNACK STATIONS (I used little baskets) for when

you’re feeding the baby. Whether breastfeeding or bottle feeding, you will spend a lot of time sat in those ‘feeding places’ in the day and in the night so make sure you have plenty of (healthy) snacks. Have bottles of water there too, as it’s important to stay hydrated, and if breastfeeding remember that you also need to replace that extra fluid.

3. WHEN BABY COMES INTO YOUR LIFE YOU WILL MAKE SO MANY

ADAPTATIONS AS YOUR NEW LIFE REVOLVES AROUND THEM. But it’s

also important that baby eventually learns to fit into your life too. One way of trying to do this in the early days is by bringing the baby to the table with you at mealtimes, involving and interacting with them. The Tripp Trapp® chair (Stokke) is great as it brings your little one right up to the table from day one.

4. PELVIC FLOOR EXERCISES! It’s important to start practicing these

during pregnancy and continuing after the baby is born. Linking to an existing habit will improve your chances of remembering and forming this new habit. For example, every time you boil the kettle, or every time you brush your teeth.

5. FATHOM OUT YOUR GADGETS AND DEVICES. Breast pump,

steriliser, night light, and anything else that might need building and operating. Read the instructions and have a little dummy run whilst your brain is still functioning, and you’ve had some sleep. You’ll thank yourself for it.

1. DON’T UNDERESTIMATE YOUR INSTINCTS. There are so many

books, guidelines and the advice from literally everyone and it can be overwhelming. There’s no such thing as perfect parenting and we all face different challenges. At the end of the day remember that your baby just needs you, and your instinct will serve you well. So trust it.

Introducing the Plant-Based Baby Detergent that adults want to use too!

Our skin is the largest organ in the human body and it needs to be cared for; using detergents containing harmful chemicals including allergens and enzymes (that are traditionally found in most leading brands) isn’t ideal - whatever your age.

Plant-based cleaning brand Nimble is able to offer a gentle, yet effective, laundry range, faultlessly kind to delicate skin. Although originally created for babies’ fragile skin, it is fast becoming a favourite for adults too, especially those with any skin conditions.

The NHS states that detergents can be a common trigger for skin conditions, such as eczema, so all ages should be mindful of what is used against their skin - Plant-based Nimble may just be the answer.

RRP: £18 Stockist: https://nimblebabies.com

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Families Cambridgeshire 7

PEPPA PIG’S BEST DAY EVER

n What’s, pO laces to Things to do be had go and fun to ages in for kids of all

Cambridgeshir

WHERE: King’s Lynn Corn Exchange WHEN: 9th and 10th February Peppa Pig is excited to be going on a special day out with George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig. Live show packed full of songs, games and laughter, it really is the best day ever for Peppa Pig fans! From £11.50 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 01553 764864

e

Crazy Cone Caper

WHERE: Cambridge University Botanic Garden WHEN: Until 28th February Something mysterious has been happening to the pine cones– they’ve been nibbled and the seeds are missing! Pick up a free trail on your way into the Garden and start your investigation. You will discover cool cones from all around the world, find facts and solve puzzles.

Adults from £6.30. Children under 16 years free. www.botanic.cam.ac.uk/

Park-O

WHERE: Wandlebury Country Park (Jan) and Therfield Heath (Feb) WHEN: 15th January and 26th February – 13.00–15.00 An easy, fun way for juniors and families to try orienteering and enjoy the local park. Three different courses and friendly advice to get you started.

Family groups £5; Child £2 www.waoc.org.uk

Big Garden Birdwatch Messy Church

WHERE: Queen Mary Centre, Wisbech WHEN: 15th January & 12th February: 15.30-17.30 Have fun making crafts, hearing bible stories and doing church in a creative way. All finished off with a home-cooked meal!

FREE - donations welcome www.messywisbech.org.uk

All events are subject to change and cancellation in view of any future Covid-19 legislations.

Nick Cope Family Show

WHERE: The Junction, Cambridge WHEN: 15th and 16th January, 11.00 and 14.00 Nick Cope has been writing and recording his beautiful and totally unique songs for children and their families for over 10 years, performing with his guitar and animations to sell-out crowds all over the country. From £8.00 www.junction.co.uk 01223 511511 8 Families Cambridgeshire

WHERE: The Junction, Cambridge WHEN: 6th February, 11.30 and 14.00 A mesmerising, engaging and fun performance for children under 3, this is a show filled with surprises and joys where you and your child can listen and watch or let loose and join in. From £6.00 www.junction.co.uk 01223 511511

Half Term Explorer Quest

Nature Tots

WHERE: Ferry Meadows WHEN: 10th & 24th January and 14th & 28th February 10.00 – 11.30 A fun monthly outdoor parent and toddler group with a nature theme. The whole session will take place outside, so please dress for the weather. 2+ years. £3.50 www.nenepark.org.uk/ ferry-meadows 01733 234193

We Touch, We Play, We Dance

WHERE: Green space near you WHEN: 28th – 30th January Take part in the nation’s biggest bird watch exercise and be wowed by your local wildlife.

Simply count the birds you see in your garden, from your balcony or in your local park for one hour.

FREE www.rspb.org.uk/get-involved/ activities/birdwatch

National Storytelling Week

WHEN: 29th January 5th February WHERE: Throughout National Storytelling Week stories will be told in schools and theatres, pubs,museums, village halls, community centres and in many other places across the UK. To find a local event visit www.sfs.org.uk

WHERE: Audley End House and Gardens WHEN: 12th – 20th February: 10.00 – 17.00 Track down the clues and solve the puzzles as you follow the family trail through the gardens and enjoy a brilliant day out in history.

From £8.40 www.english-heritage.org.uk/ visit/whats-on

Pay and Play Hire WHERE: Nene Outdoors, Ferry Meadows WHEN: 12th – 20th February, 11.00 – 16.00 Boat and cycle hire is available at Nene Outdoors throughout the February half term. Will you try something new or do you have a favourite boat to enjoy the lake? www.nenepark.org.uk 01733 234193

EXCITING SCIENCE WHERE: The Maltings, Ely WHEN: 15th February, 11.30 & 14.30 With fun & fact filled experiments, watch in amazement as they recreate a volcanic eruption; turn a vacuum cleaner into a missile launcher or take aim at you with their smoke blaster! Suitable for age 4+ £12.00 www.themaltingsely.org.uk 01353 662633

familiesonline.co.uk

Families What's on Holiday Bushcraft

WHERE: Wandlebury Country Park WHEN: 14th – 18th February, 8.30 – 16.00 Designed for children aged 5-12 and run by experienced qualified teachers, the sessions focus on practical bushcraft and survival skills and follow a forest school approach encouraging self-confidence and sense of achievement. £38 / child / day.

Booking essential www.wildthymeandembers. co.uk/holiday-bushcraft-club/

JUNGLE RUMBLE

A WILD NEW MUSICAL FOR ALL THE FAMILY!

WHERE: Fortune Theatre, Covent Garden WHEN: 14th – 20th February An original family musical marking a natural progression for the highly regarded Perform drama school taking its acting expertise onto the stage. A sensational West End adult cast will bring the Jungle to life with thrilling choreography, uplifting songs and an inspirational message about working together to protect the Earth.

From £15.00 www.atgtickets.com/shows/jungle-rumble/fortune-theatre/

Church Farm Rare Breeds Centre

Archery

WHERE: Oak Meadow, Ferry Meadows WHEN: 15th February, 11.00 – 15.00 Pay and Play Archery sessions will run throughout the day. Why not come down and have a go?

Suitable for Adults and children over 8 years £9.00 per person.

Booking essential. www.nenepark.org.uk 01733 234193

Justin Fletcher – The Big Tour

WHERE: King’s Lynn Corn Exchange WHEN: 26th February, 11.00 and 14.30 Come and see CBeebies superstar and children’s favourite Justin Fletcher live on stage in a fabulous show for all the family packed full of well-known songs, lots of dancing, hilarious comedy and plenty of slapstick fun. From £18.50 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 01553 764864

Public Open Evenings Online

WHERE: Institute of Astronomy, University of Cambridge WHEN: Wednesdays in January and February Each evening consists of a 30 minute public talk about astronomy, followed by (weather dependent!) stargazing on the Cambridge University Astronomy YouTube channel. FREE www.ast.cam.ac.uk/public/ public_observing

Underwater WHERE: The Junction, Cambridge WHEN: 20th February, 11.00, 13.00 and 15.00 When a ballerina meets an octopus beneath the waves, the pair form a beautiful friendship – dancing a loving duet to a twinkling soundtrack. This gorgeous multi-sensory show is sure to engage your baby’s imagination. £17 for one baby (age 0-2) and one adult www.junction.co.uk 01223 511511 familiesonline.co.uk

WHERE: Stow Bardolph WHEN: January & February (Thursday – Sunday, everyday from 10th February), 10.00 – 17.00 Make friends with a wide variety of tame animals and experience all their young at close quarters throughout the season as well as enjoying their adventure playground. Why not make a day of it and visit their Tea Room to enjoy a homemade lunch with a delicious piece of cake. www.churchfarmstowbardolph. co.uk/ 01366 382162

Partyman World of Play

WHERE: Mercers Row, Cambridge WHEN: January and February Huge indoor play frame with specially designed toddler area as well as baby areas for little guests under three years. With café as well as extra activities during holiday periods. Peak and off-peak prices. Membership available. Hire them for fun parties too! From £1.95 www.partymanworld.co.uk/ location/cambridge

Little Bugs Club – Great Fen

WHERE: Countryside Centre, Ramsey Heights WHEN: January/February – Fridays (Term-time): 10.30 – 12.00 A fantastic introduction to the natural world for pre-school children. Each weekly session is packed with activities, walks and games….be prepared to get mucky. £4 per child. www.wildlifebcn.org 01487 710420

Snowdrops

WHERE: Chippenham Park Gardens WHEN: Everyday from 22nd January until 1st April, 10.00 – 16.00 Over 40 acres of spectacular widely renowned snowdrops and aconites. Delicious home-made food and refreshments in the licensed Potting Shed Cafe.

Adult £7; Children £3 (Under 5’s Free) (Cash only) www.chippenhamparkgardens. info/opening-dates

Families Cambridgeshire 9

Start as they mean to go on Places available for immediate start

stmaryscambridge.co.uk/preschool

Families Education

Childcare Challenges

by Karen Beresford

Ofsted data shows that childcare providers have been closing at a concerning rate, with almost four times more providers closing between September 2020 and March 2021 than between March and August 2020. Since the start of 2021, a third of local authorities in England have reported a rise in the number of providers in their area permanently closing.

Despite the closures, most local authorities in England have not yet seen an increase in childcare shortages. Over two thirds reported having enough childcare available to meet demand from parents working full time, compared to just over half last year (Coram March 2021).

However, this situation is most likely to be due to a drop in demand during the pandemic when more parents worked from home. As parents return to the workplace, demand is increasing again, making it harder for many to remain in their jobs.

A significant factor in the decline of childcare places has been a five per cent drop in those provided by registered childminders (Ofsted data). Coram found that childminders abandoning the sector is especially significant in rural areas and childminder availability is more scarce for parents who work atypical hours and need more flexibility.

Significantly fewer than two thirds of parents working earlier morning or

evening shifts reported that available childcare met their needs.

A quick scroll through Mumsnet shows many posts from parents struggling to access childcare: ‘It was so difficult to find a place in our area ... had to go to one nursery twice a week and to a different one for the third day’ reports one mother. ‘The nursery I wanted had an eighteen month waiting list,’ said another.

Parents are increasingly booking childcare in the early stages of pregnancy. In one example, a mother who was fourteen weeks pregnant registered her baby for a February 2023 start. In the North West, one mother booked a place for August 2023 when twenty weeks pregnant.

It was one of the last spaces and the nursery is now fully booked for this time.

Where there is childcare, this is often not suitable. For example, a provision that runs 8am-6pm Monday to Friday means a parent can realistically work only 8.30am-5.30pm on weekdays, and that is if they have a relatively short and reliable commute. There are many jobs that fall

nursery that is within reachable distance of work, home and their older children’s school.

Access to childcare is important, both to support paid work and help shape young children’s development. As places become harder to find, parents who are considering looking for a childcare place may be wise to start the search sooner rather than later to find a space.

OTHER OPTIONS Nanny shares work well for thousands of families. Offering flexible, home-based childcare, they can work out as a cost-effective alternative to nursery care. Parents become employers so check out the responsibilities first at www.childcare.co.uk/information/nanny-shares Two fifths of grandparents have provided regular childcare for their grandchildren, according to a YouGov poll for Age UK, with the best arrangements based on mutual respect and understanding.

Grandparents who are regularly looking after their grandchildren can claim National Insurance credits to top up their state pension.

More at www.informationnow.org.uk/article/grandparent-issues Karen Beresford is a childcare expert at Your Employee Wellbeing www.youremployeewellbeing.co.uk

Should government do more?

Research by the Trades Union Congress (TUC) found that between 2008 and 2016 the cost of a 1 year old’s nursery provision grew four times faster than wages in England. In London, it was more than seven times faster.

Working parents say the government’s inadequate childcare policies leave them financially crippled and held back in their careers.

A wide-ranging study shows that overwhelmingly parents believe that ministers are not doing enough to support childcare costs and availability and that childcare in the UK is too expensive.

outside those hours.

Of particular concern is the shortage of childcare places for older children. School age childcare is used by twice as many children as pre-school childcare and is essential for many working parents. With childminders closing, after-school vacancies are harder to find. One mother just about managed to work from home but now she is being called back to the workplace she can't find anyone to drop off and pick up her children. Parents also report that many activities for children in the holidays run 9am to 3pm and cost around £200 per child. This is difficult to cover and fund.

For families with different aged children, some pre-school and others of school age, trying to find provision for before and after school, as well as full day care, is a particular challenge. Parents cannot always find a

familiesonline.co.uk

Families Cambridgeshire 11

* Cambridge Park & Ride – Taking you into the heart of Cambridge Open seven days a week Buses depart every 10 minutes (Mon-Sat) until 6.30pm and every 20 minutes after Tickets: • *Park & Ride Return, £3 and with this ticket up to three children travel for free • Park & Ride Group Ticket, £8.50 (purchased from driver), allows a group of up to 5 people to travel together.

• Park & Ride Weekly Ticket, £14 and valid for 7 days • Every 15 minutes (9am – 6pm) Sundays and public holidays Contactless payments are now accepted on all Park & Ride services Concessionary pass holders travel for free with their passes after 9.30am Monday to Friday, and all day at the weekend and on bank holidays.

Parking is free for up to 18 hours. Charges apply for longer stays, see www.cambridgeparkandride.info for more

Further information: www.cambridgeparkandride.info

Families Education

GETTING MORE INVOLVED WITH YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT Children learn a huge amount while in quality childcare; however, they also spend large amounts of time at home where learning happens naturally, meaning that parents are the first and most important educators in their child’s life.

Together, childcare practitioners and parents can have a significant positive influence on a child’s learning and development.

A good quality childcare provider should work alongside you and your family to support the pace and quality of your child’s developmental progress.

HOW TO BETTER UNDERSTAND YOUR CHILD’S LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT Family learning gives parents the skills to continue developing their child’s learning in the home even when their children have finished their session at childcare.

And family members doesn't just have to mean parents — it can include siblings, grandparents, friends or anyone else that cares for your child.

HOW FAMILY LEARNING WORKS Ask your childcare provider what your child is currently learning or focusing on and ask them for suggestions of relevant activities you can do with them at home to continue their learning.

Your provider may run short, informal sessions at nursery or preschool in which they explain what topics your child is covering and teach you skills that will help you to encourage your child's learning in the home.

Family learning can also provide opportunities to improve your own skills in areas such as mathematics and English and feel more confident when supporting your child with their learning.

WHY IT WORKS Evidence shows that learning in the home helps: • Improve educational outcomes for your children in the long term; • Encourages more parents back into learning themselves and promotes more family interest in learning through play activities which directly benefit their children’s learning • Provides a strong base to help parents and practitioners to better support a child’s journey towards formal schooling; • Improves relationships between parents and children.

The success of family learning demonstrates that parents who become more interested in their children’s learning generally make the work undertaken by the childcare provider more effective.

• Fun activities to do at home • Healthy eating quiz or fun with baking • Making puppets to improve communication • Home-made musical instruments

• • • • •

Number games and activities Songs and rhymes Exploring shapes (indoors or outdoors) Visiting the library Float or sink (fun with water-based games).

VOLUNTEERING AT YOUR CHILD’S SETTING This is a great way to become more involved with your child’s learning.

• You do not need any experience, although previous experience working with children or in childcare is invaluable.

• You may be interested in formal roles like a nursery assistant where you will receive lots of support including an induction or special training. Other roles may be more informal with flexible arrangements such as joining outings to the park, helping with a fundraising activity or running a toy library. Your child’s setting is likely to be open to ideas.

VOLUNTEERING AT YOUR CHILD'S SETTING CAN HELP YOU: • Increase your enjoyment and understanding of the way your child learns; • Learn new skills, gain confidence and practical experience; • Make new friends and meet other parents • Develop and become part of a parent forum • Take up free training opportunities to help you progress into paid work • Get to know your child’s friends better • Explore new career opportunities in childcare • Give something back to your local community.

This article was written by the Early Years Child Alliance (www. eyalliance.org.uk), a registered educational charity, which supports fourteen thousand members to deliver care and learning to over

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Families Cambridgeshire 13

cambridge_Layout 1 29/08/2020 22:59 Page 1

Eden Dance

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Come and join us SATURDAY at 8.45am

01223 778655

Nursery Playdance THE ORIGINAL

for 3 to 4 years old

Created by Maureen Singh Mitchell at Eden Dance

Exploring creativity, imagination, movement & dance in an informal and friendly way Studio at Chesterton Sports Centre, Gilbert Road, Cambridge CB4 3NY www.edendance.co.uk info@edendance.co.uk

Families Clubs & Classes

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Razzamataz Cambridge

WHERE: Impington Village College

WHEN: Spring term starts 8th January

Performing arts training for Razz Tots (2-3yrs), Minis (4-5yrs), Juniors (6-8), Inters (9-11yrs) to Razz Seniors (12-18yrs), with access to talented performers through specialist workshops and classes. Small classes to nurture a child’s confidence and self-esteem, plus a lot of fun.

From £72 for 12 weeks. Free taster session available. cambridge.razzamataz.co.uk 01223 755113 or 07895 347239

Things ma, music a r D r a ye for mething o s t r o p s & in everyone

Cambridg

eshire

Stagecoach Performing Arts Classes WHERE: Coleridge Campus,

Cambridge; Cambourne Village College, Cambourne and Chesterton Community College WHEN: Spring term starts on 5th January Stagecoach aims to nurture and develop young potential through singing, acting and dance classes in Cambridge, Cambourne and Chesterton, stretching young imaginations and helping them to develop confidence, physical awareness, communication and articulation. From 4 – 18 years.

From £25 for two-week trial www.stagecoach.co.uk 01223 359974

PERFORM weekly drama, dance and singing classes

WHERE: Hills Road Sports

Centre: Wednesdays, Newnham Croft Primary School: Saturdays, St. Andrew's Church Hall Chesterton: Mondays WHEN: Spring term starts 8th January Confidence-boosting dramabased games and activities, allowing every child to shine.

This term children ages 4 - 7 will trek off on a jungle adventure while ages 7 - 12 enjoy a thrilling Romeo and Juliet adaptation.

To book a no-obligation FREE trial visit www.perform.org. uk/try using CAM70222 for a £40 discount if booked by 7th February. 020 7255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Eden Dance

'Little Acorns' Toddler Group

WHERE: Chesterton Sports

Centre With more than 25 ballet classes a week for children (ages 3 – 18) and adults, all levels of ability and experience are welcome. Classes are in the Russian style, one of the most expressive of the recognised standards and are held in a modern, fully equipped studio. www.edendance.co.uk/ 01223 778 655

Multi-Active Half Term Holiday Course WHERE: Venues around

Cambridgeshire WHEN: 14th – 18th February 9.0016.00 (Extended Hours Available) Multi-Active exist to provide affordable and reliable childcare and day care to parents and carers and provide innovative experiences to get ALL children ACTIVE and not just sporty children. From £21.00 for full day (9.00 – 16.00) www.multi-active.co.uk 01462 351582 or 07561 416208

WHERE: St. Johns Church

Fenland Music Centre Association

WHERE: St. Peter’s Church, March

Orchestras and Ensembles for all ages and abilities. Meet every Friday evening (during school term time) between 6pm and 9pm. See their website for further details.

Fees per term: £20 for children/ students, £30 for Adults www.fenlandmusiccentre.org.uk

Cambridge United Community Trust Football for All

WHERE: Coleridge Community

College

WHEN: Saturdays and Sundays

Disability sport sessions provided

by Cambridge United Community Trust including Ambulant Cerebral Palsy, Down's Syndrome, Frame, Powerchair and Pan-Disability Football. £3 per session www.cuctrust.co.uk/inclusion/ disability-sport/ 07948 407950

Rugbytots

WHERE: Various locations across

Cambridgeshire Fun, structured play sessions take children on a journey of sporting imagination whilst teaching them how to catch, pass, kick, run with the ball and play as part of a team. Suitable for ages 2 – 7.

From £9.00 per session www.rugbytots.co.uk

Grounds, March WHEN: Wednesdays from 19th January – 23rd February 9.00 11.00 Little Acorns is a six weekly toddler group designed for 1-5 year olds, which enables them to fully immerse themselves into nature and introduces them to the magic of forest school. £50.00 for 5 sessions (trial class £5.00 for 1 session) fenland-foragers-forest-sch. class4kids.co.uk 07962 337988

West Anglian Orienteering Club WHERE:

Milton, Trumpington, Ferry Meadows Welcome members of all ages and abilities.

Hold regular events with courses suitable for children and newcomers, many events have Training sessions for club juniors. Also provide two junior training nights each term. www.waoc.org.uk/juniors

South Cambridgeshire Equestrian Centre WHERE: Barrington

A British Horse Society Approved Riding Centre with private and group lessons for 5 years + with or without riding experience.

From £20/half hour group lesson www.scec.co.uk 01763 263213 or 07712 033862

Elite Swimming Academy

Weekly Children’s Swimming lessons WHERE: Venues across Cambridge With just 3 students per class and world class teachers, Elite Swimming Academy guarantee to have your child swimming years ahead of their time with a term time, weekly 30 minute lesson. www.eliteswimmingacademy.co.uk 01223 633 699 Families Cambridgeshire 15

STAGECOACH

GE & BRID CAM BOURNE CAM

Cambridge & Cambourne

HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS 2022

Realise the unique potential in your child at Stagecoach.

Cambourne

Cambridge

8th - 12th August

4th - 8th April

Easter Week 1 - 6.5-15 years old

25th - 29th July

Cambourne Summer Week 1 6.5-15 years old

Summer Week 1 - 6.5-15 years old

1st - 5th August

Summer Week 2 - 6.5-15 years old

15th - 19th August

CHIL DCAR E VOU CHER S ACCE PTED

Summer Week 3 - 6.5-15 years old cambridge@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/cambridge

01223 359974

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals.

Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.