Families Bedfordshire Jul-Aug 2015

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JULY/AU

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ISSUE 175

What's On:

July & August

Summer camps & holiday activities

Local news & views!

For families with young children aged 0 -12 in Bedfordshire

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Editor's Welcome

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Hello and welcome to our sunshine filled Summer issue!

Now the weather has started to warm up there are so many opportunities to get and out about with the whole family. We have loads of information on what to do and where to go over the summer months and the looming school holidays, come rain or shine! Local Bedfordshire blogger Hazel Newhouse offers a couple of top tips on where to go near to her. Plus, do keep an eye on our website (www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk) for all the latest activities and events that are taking place throughout Bedfordshire.

Have a fantastic summer holiday break!

NEWS & INFO

Contents

RAINY DAY ACTIVITIES HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES AND SUMMER CAMPS

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NATURE'S CLASSROOM

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HEALTH NEWS

12 - 15 16

WHAT'S ON: JULY-AUGUST THINGS TO DO IN BIGGLESWADE AND SANDY!

Editor: Judith Dow editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk Mob: 07889 894431 or phone: 01727 373929.

Part of the Families ® magazines group, established 1990. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned & operated under license.

Design: CBF - www.cbfnet.co.uk

Judith P.S. Our September-October issue will focus on going 'back to school' and it will also include our clubs and classes feature. Copy deadline: Friday 24 July.

Congratulations to the winner of the Strider bike offered by The Big Outdoor Show, A Nash. The winners of Family Passes to The Hive were C Norris and K Broadbent.

Photo credits Front cover: © wavebreakmedia / Shutterstock Pg 4 © Natasha Ewins; pg 5 © ZSL; pg 6 © Olesia Bilkei © Ilike © bokan; pg 10 © Helen Walsh / The Wildlife Trust © Emma Robertshaw/The Wildlife Trust © Emma Bradshaw.

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. Further distribution information please contact: editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

Maths & English tuition centres For 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities • • • •

Courses mapped to the National Curriculum.

Adapts to the individual needs of your child.

Convenient for families - Open 7 days a week.

Ofsted registered - we accept Childcare Vouchers.

Free trial session - book today!

Bedford Luton

01234 365905 01582 742979

www.explorelearning.co.uk

“Explore Learning members’ improvement in maths was 30% higher than that of the comparison group after controlling for gender, age, year group and special educational needs.”

Independent Efficacy Study by the Institute of Education at Reading University (2013). See www.explorelearning.co.uk/efficacy.

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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, Temple 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.

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News and info Step out for a fun family walk and help protect your paths

Look up, look down ,

The Collection

Families are being encouraged to step out for a stroll this summer and help protect the places they love to walk along the way as part of the Ramblers’ Big Pathwatch.

The Ramblers is asking families to head out and walk their favourite paths in the South East and report back on what they find using a smartphone app. To make this fun for children, the walking experts have created fun, free activity sheets that families can download and take out on their ramble.

Not only is walking good exercise for all the family, it’s also a great way to tempt children away from the Xbox or TV and help them learn all about the great outdoors. The Big Pathwatch activity sheets are the perfect way to turn a normal walk around the local area into a fun family adventure.

From Monday 13 July families will be able to download the Big Pathwatch app and share their experiences as they walk every right of way within a specific grid square. They’ll be asked to share the positive features of the walk, the beautiful views, any wildlife and interesting landscapes they see, as well as noting any problems they encounter.

The Big Pathwatch activity sheets will be available from www.Ramblers.org.uk/bigpathwatch.

look around!

is home to hi storic aircra motorcycles, ft, vintage ve and a perio hicles and d Swiss Gar den

Airshows & Collection events

Plays, Music events and Photography workshops Old Warden Aerodrome, Bedfordshire, SG18 9EP

July-August events at Shuttleworth for all the family!

Sunday 5 July - Military Pageant Airshow z Thurs 16 July - Swiss Garden Photography workshop z Sat 18 July - Best of British Evening Airshow z Sun 19 July - Regency Garden Party z Sun 2 August - Wings & Wheels Airshow z Sat 15 August - Flying Proms z Sun 16 August - ‘Eurovision Revisited’ Music event z Thurs 20 August Chapterhouse Theatre Company presents ‘The Secret Garden’.

www.shuttleworth.org/events

Plus, do also keep a look out for details of the Bedfordshire Walking Festival 2015 (www.bedswalkfest.co.uk/), coming in September!

Reg Charity No 307534

Families Beds QP July-Aug 2015.indd 1

Pattern Tracker

17/06/2015 11:55:51

is coming soon!

The Higgins Bedford, John Bunyan and Panacea Museums have joined forces to create an exciting new activity trail for families during the summer. The ‘Pattern Tracker’ trail will encourage children to learn about shapes and design using features from each of the museums and will be available from summer 2015.

The trail focuses on the beautiful architecture and stunning stained glass windows of Bunyan Meeting, some of the amazing objects on display at the Higgins, and the tranquil gardens of the Panacea Museum.

Gemma Papineau, manager at the Panacea Museum said “With the start of better weather, this trail is the perfect way for families to enjoy discovering their local museums. Children can enjoy exploring the gardens at the Panacea Museum, or relax and soak up the peaceful atmosphere in the Bunyan Church, then discover the exciting new galleries in the Higgins.”

More details: www.facebook.com/JohnBunyanMuseum; www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk or www.facebook.com/panaceamuseum

Due to popular demand, Perform children’s drama school arrives in Woburn on Thursdays from Thursday 24 September onwards.

Focusing on child development, Perform use a unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. Classes are kept small to ensure lots of individual attention by their experienced actor/teachers. They offer classes for 4-12 year olds and their focus is entirely on The 4 C’s. Confidence, Communication, Co-ordination and Concentration.

Principal Lucy Quick says “We are incredibly excited about opening in Woburn. We operate in near by Heath and Reach and parents have been asking us to open locally for ages and we have a fantastic venue and have found some brilliant teachers to lead the workshops.”

Classes will run on Thursdays at Woburn Village Hall, Crawley Road, MK17 9QF from 4- 5pm for 4-7 year olds and 5pm - 6pm for 7- 12 year olds. All children are invited to a free Drama Class at your nearest Perform venue. Call 0845 400 4000 to book your free trial today or see www.perform.org.uk

To advertise: 01727 373929

July/August 2015

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News and info

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Harpur Trust announces new art competition in Bedford Borough The Harpur Trust recently announced the launch of an exciting new art competition for schools and children in Bedford Borough, which will culminate in a major exhibition at The Higgins Bedford next summer.

The competition, which will take place over the coming academic year, was initiated by the Trust as part of a series of anniversary celebrations marking its 450th birthday in 2016.

Open to children aged 7-18 years across four age categories, the competition aims to inspire local children to explore their artistic talent.

Avoid the summer learning slide and save £50 with Explore Learning maths and English tuition this July!

The school holidays are almost here, and we’re sure learning will be the last thing on a child’s mind. However, research has revealed that two thirds of children fall behind in their studies over the holidays* meaning that when they finally go back to school, many children are lacking in confidence and unable to recall things they learnt in the previous school year.

Carey Ann Dodah, Head of Curriculum at Explore Learning says: “It’s surprising how much children’s academic ability slips over the summer holidays and it seems such a waste of all the time and effort they have put in over the previous year. Of course, we’re not saying it should all be work, work, work – but just a couple of hours a week to keep you topped up can make the world of difference when September comes around.”

July is the most popular time of the year for families to join Explore Learning, as parents across the country look for an engaging way to keep their children’s brains active over the long summer break. Also, families joining in July will save £50 registration fee at participating centres, so now is a great time to join if you haven’t already!

Explore Learning has maths and English tuition centres across the UK, including Bedford (tel: 01234 365905) and Luton (01582 742979) . You can book a trial, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk or phone your local centre. Terms and conditions apply. *Research; COOPER, H., NYE, B., CHARLTON, K. and GREATHOUSE, S. (1996). ‘The effects of summer scores: a narrative and meta-analytic review’, Review of Educational Research, 66, 227–68.

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To support participating schools, a team of Visiting Artists will be engaged to spend time within schools, leading practical workshops for pupils based on the competition’s themes. There are twelve generous prizes for the winning artists and finalists, and their schools also stand to win up to £500 of art equipment as well as a school trip to The Higgins Bedford and Bunyan Museum, all funded by the Trust.

More info: www.harpurtrust.org.uk/art-competition

Join the The Marine Conservation Society on the beach!

The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) urgently need volunteers to take part in the UK’s biggest beach clean and litter survey, which takes place this year on the third weekend in September (18-21).

In 2014, nearly 5,349 volunteers cleaned 301 beaches. For every kilometre surveyed, a record 2,457 pieces of litter were found.

MCS Beachwatch Officer Charlotte Coombes says it’s crucial we do something to tackle rising litter levels: “Over the last decade, we’ve recorded a huge hike in the amount of litter found on our beaches – up by over 20%. We need help - and anyone can simply volunteer to take part.”

Some of our best-loved marine wildlife is under threat from hazardous litter in our seas. Hundreds of species of marine wildlife accidentally eat, or become tangled up in litter - and it’s also hazardous to people.

To find out more about getting involved see www.mcsuk.org/beachwatch or telephone 01989 566017.

a r o f g n i k o Lo ry? e s r u n ’s n e r child

Come and see our newly refurbished nursery in Colmworth! We offer the very highest standard of care to all our children.

Reasons why parents choose Puddleducks... t t t t t t

Just 8 minutes from Bedford!

Free funded places for 3-4 year olds - no hidden charges All staff are First Aid trained Large beautiful outdoor play space Corporate and emergency service staff discounts Individual routine for babies with nappies and wipes included as standard t Flexible full-time and part-time sessions t All food is nutritious, fresh and well-balanced

Contact us now!

Tel: 01234 378880 QUOTE FAMILIESBEDS FOR FREE REGISTRATION! ** FREE BABY GROUP EVERY MONDAY 2-3.30pm - OPEN TO EVERYONE **

To arrange a visit or request a brochure, just contact: Tel - 01234 378880 Email - puddleducks@toadhall-nursery.co.uk facebook.com/ToadHallNurseryColmworth

Follow us @ToadHallGroup www.toadhall-nursery.co.uk Recommended on daynurseries.co.uk

Snug as a BedBUG at London Zoo!

By Judith Dow

BedBUGS returns to ZSL London Zoo this summer with selected dates in July and August, hot on the heels of the opening of ZSL London Zoo’s newest exhibit In with the Spiders.

It's a sleepover with a difference. My seven-year old son and I decided to give it a go in early June and we were not disappointed.

Bedding down in the ZSL B.U.G.S! (Biodiversity Underpinning Global Survival) exhibit, home to over 140 different species at the heart of the Zoo, our overnight visit proved to be a fun, educational, albeit somewhat tiring (me, that is!) experience. Our evening began with a night of animal-themed games, talks and activities, and culminated in the ultimate, torch-lit tour of the Zoo, where our group of parents and children were accompanied by our extremely knowledgeable hosts and Zoo keepers in the dark of the night.

We had the chance to meet the B.U.G.S! house residents face-to-face and found out why cockroaches throw hissy fits, which arachnids have red knees, and why invertebrates are spineless.

After climbing out of our sleeping bags in the morning, which was a chance to sleep near the animals and was “really cool” according to my son, we enjoyed our breakfast in the Zoo's Cafe. We then went on to finish our Zoo tour with our group at the Penguin Beach. The

chance to look round the Zoo for the rest of the day is included in the price, along with free parking, and we both enjoyed visiting the Reptile House and Butterfly Paradise early on in the day.

BedBUGS sleepovers are aimed at junior explorers aged seven to 11 accompanied by adults, or they could be an unusual birthday party treat or group trip. See www.zsl.org/bedbugs for more information.

To advertise: 01727 373929

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Rainy day activities ok Bo rly

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GYMNASTICS CLUB

Looking for an exciting and fun activity for the children this summer?

SALTO is running its Gym Camps every Tuesday and Wednesday throughout the summer from Tuesday 28 July until Wednesday 26 August, inclusive.

The Camps are available to members and non-members aged 5 -16 years, and early bird discount applies before 10 July on production of this advert.

Available options COST *

New Butterfly House opening at Whipsnade Zoo! Morning 8.45am until 12.30pm £20 Full day 8.45am until 4pm £30 Late finish 8.45am until 5pm £35

*Children who stay all day must bring a packed lunch, but NO fizzy drinks please.

The Camps include games, gym fitness skills, fitness circuits, assault courses, trampoline or trying out the new foam pits.

Rain, rain don't go away and come back another day!

By Sarah Butters

One thing you can count on this summer is that there will be rain.

When the heavens do open, you’ll need some ideas to keep your little ones occupied and you on the right side of sanity this summer.

Sarah Butters offers her favourite ways to fill a wet summer day.

Get Board!

Whether you’re a Jedi at Jenga or a master Monopoly player, there’s nothing like a giant board games tournament to pass the time. No one in the Butters household will ever forget the day a game of Battleships descended into an actual world war. And if I’m to be honest, I’ve never quite got over being beaten by my children at Scrabble after they came up with ‘zumba’ on a triple word score.

However this is a chance to encourage your family to forget the iPads and X Boxes of today and remember the fun you can have with three dimensional people.

If the summer showers won’t allow you to get dry, grab your swimsuit and head to your local leisure centre. News that half of primary school children can’t swim the length of a pool should be a wake up call for all parents. Many local swim schools offer intensive holiday courses for children looking to master this life saving skill and you can support them with a rainy day trip to your local pool. This time of year provides the perfect opportunity to make swimming fun and get the whole family summer holiday ready.

July/August 2015

Keep learning alive

Six weeks is a long time to be out of the classroom. Make a note of the days your local after school support centre is running holiday sessions.

For example, Explore Learning is open daily over the school holidays and offers a range of learning opportunities for children from 4 years old.

Keeping them occupied on a rainy day during the summer may give your child a head start once they’re back at their desk in September.

Create a rainy day jar

Has your child ever asked to do something that you’ve not had the time for? Maybe it’s baking a batch of biscuits, building some Lego they’ve had since their birthday or showing you a dance routine they’ve created.

Whenever time is against you, get your child to write the idea on a piece of paper and pop it in the Rainy Day Jar. It means you can reach into it for ideas as soon as you hear the words “It’s raining!”

Head indoors

Take a dip

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Salto Gymnastics Club | Salto Centre | 98 Camford Way | Luton | LU3 3AN Tel: 01582 495953 | www.saltogym.org | info@saltogym.plus.com

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

Museums are rain proof and packed with family activities to keep you all occupied. Locally try the Higgins Bedford (www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk/) or further afield in London – try something different such as The Power of Poison (www.powerofpoison.co.uk until Sunday 6 September at the Old Truman Brewery). The summer holiday is a time for the attractions on your doorstep to put out the welcome mat for families. Take a look at our What’s On guide to find out what’s happening near you and make a note so that when that typical British summer does arrive, you know where to head.

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• Private family ski & snowboard • Ski & snowboard Snocamps lessons only £99 all summer long!

27th July – 4th Sept, 8.30am5.30pm + unique freestyle camps.

• Free family entertainment From £50 p/day. Contact us on 27th July – 31st August salesmk@snozoneuk.com • Sledging & playing in the snow!

Come and see Peppa Pig at our fun packed Family Event on July 11th appearing at intervals between 11am-4pm www.peppapig.co.uk ©ABD Ltd/Ent. One UK Ltd 2003.

IMPROVE YOUR FITNESS WITH SNOWSPORTS & SHARE YOUR SUCCESS. @SNOZONEMK

WWW.SNOZONEUK.COM

Holiday activity clubs at The Hive Indoor activity and Play Centre, The Hive in Shefford will be running holiday activity clubs every week throughout the school holidays (booking is essential via the website). There will be lots of special events on offer for different age groups upto early teens, including Whacky Races, Shefford Ninja Competitions, and lots of other fun activities. The Hive will offer participants of the Holiday Clubs a packed lunch, and for their younger guests, Bee Picnics will be taking place on specific dates and they will be welcome to join in when they come in to play!

Holiday Clubs & Activities There are lots of fantastic clubs, classes and activities going on this summer to keep children entertained over the long break. From holiday clubs to drama courses, arts and crafts and Gym Clubs, here's our round-up of some of the best things that are on offer this July and August.

Please do check details and book in advance where necessary.

HOLIDAY CLUBS AND CAMPS Tiska Karate Every Sunday at 11.15am and every Tuesday at 5pm Upstairs Martial Arts Room, Dunstable Leisure Centre, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4JD More info tel: 01753-882012 or 07885-294418 or email: tiska.karate@btconnect.com Tatty Bumpkin Tatty Bumpkin will have a number of summer activities running during July and August.

They will be Bendy at some of the Bedford Council Playschemes as well as lots of Giggly fun in a number of venues in and around Bedford.

Their Yoga inspired holiday clubs are a fun activity, opening imaginations and strengthening our bodies for children between 2-8 years.

For more information like and follow us on Facebook, contact Hayley on 07592 660885 or email bedford@tattybumpkin.com

Keep an eye on both the website and Facebook page, and sign-up for email updates to hear first about all of the exciting things that are coming to the Hive this summer! More info: www.thehiveshefford.co.uk https://www.facebook.com/thehiveshefford or tel: 01462 819096.

Arts Award Summer School Monday 27 – Friday 31 July, 9am-4pm Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road, Luton If you enjoy being creative, drawing, painting and making then join in with the fun at Stockwood Discovery Centre’s Summer School. During this week of activities you will work with real artists, find out what they do and try out arts and crafts. Plus, you can achieve an Arts Award, a nationally recognised programme which supports, inspires and promotes arts activities. £22.50 per day / £100 per week.

For ages 7+ .Book tel: 01582 548600 Drama Summer School Monday 3 August – Friday 7 August, 10am-4pm with Friday evening performance.

Rufus Centre, Flitwick £75 per chid which includes 2 free tickets to the performance of “Grimm to the Woods”; professional coaching with Up Stage Theatre Company; art materials to make the scenery, plus a t-shirt and costume hire! More info and to book tel: 01525 631900.

Record Breaking Drama Tuesday 25 August – Wednesday 26 August, 10am-3pm Leighton Buzzard Library Theatre, Lake Street, Leighton Buzzard Drama and fun with Full House Theatre. For children aged 7-12 years old. £15 per session Tel: 0300 300 8059 or Continued www.leightonbuzzardlibrarytheatre.co.uk

To advertise: 01727 373929

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Holiday activities and summer camps ÂŽ Yoga inspired classes/parties

Fun classes to encourage movement, enhance development and inspire confidence in your baby and child 0-7 years Enhance Creativity, Improve Concentration Develop Communication, Increase Strength

Ć www.tattybumpkin.com/bedford bedford@tattybumpkin.com facebook.com/tattybumpkinbedford

Sports courses, games, arts, crafts and play activities in Bedford this summer

Holiday Clubs & Activities

Bedford Borough Council have organised a wide range of activities for young people to enjoy at their Summer Play and Games Schemes.

Drop in sessions run between Friday 31 July-Friday 21 August, and look after children aged 5-13 years old at 18 different locations across Bedford Borough, from Riseley to Stewartby and lots of venues in between.

There are fun games, supervised play, bouncy castles, sports days, trips and much more. Just turn up and register. Cost is ÂŁ2 per two hour session (or ÂŁ2 per 1 1/2 hour sessions in some areas).

Longer, sport specific courses are also available in tennis, sailing, paddle sport, rowing, Bikeability, stand up paddle boarding, wet ‘n’ wild, indoor bowls, cricket with multi-skills, golf and street dance. Details can be found online and pre-booking is required.

More info: www.bedford.gov.uk/sport or www.facebook.com/ bedfordsportsdevelopment Summer Snocamps Monday 27 July- Wednesday 2 September, 8.30am-5.30pm with lunch & refreshments included.

Snozone Milton Keynes Running every school holiday the Snocamps include dynamic ski and snowboard lessons from expert coaches each morning, followed by lunch and afternoon activities. Suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers/snowboarders from 7–15 years. Snowsports are fantastic activities that keep children physically active and healthy, they can learn a brand new sport to share with their friends. Daily from £50pp, weekly £225pp.

Family Private Lessons Snozone’s best ever value family ski/snowboard private lessons, means that for £99 you can begin to learn a brand new sport this summer that your whole family can enjoy together for years to come. Start or finish the day with a family sledging session for only £10 extra.

To book tel: 0871 222 5673 or visit http://snozoneuk.com/family-fun Summer Gym Camps SALTO is running its Gym Camps every Tuesday and Wednesday throughout the summer from Tuesday 28 July until Wednesday 26 August, inclusive. The Camps include games, gym fitness skills, fitness circuits, assault courses, trampoline or trying out the new foam pits and are available to members and non-members, aged 5-16 years old.

Early bird booking offer: ÂŁ5 discount on bookings before Friday 10 July on production of their advert.

Three slots are available from 8.45am until 12.30pm, 8.45am until 4pm and 8.45am until 5pm.

There will also be drop-in sessions running all day Monday and Friday morning for parents who can bring their toddlers plus siblings up to the age of seven. No booking required!

More info: SALTO Gymnastics Club, SALTO CENTRE, 98 Camford Way, Luton, LU3 3AN Tel: 01582 495953. www.saltogym.org email: info@saltogym.plus.com

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CHILDREN'S ACTIVITIES AND DAYS OUT Snozone Family Fun Day: Meet Peppa Pig! Saturday 11 July Snozone Milton Keynes Peppa Pig is returning to Snozone for special appearances with free face painting, live music, a mini cinema, stilt walkers, snow queen appearances, sand arts and crafts and a Q&A with the Snowsports managers.On the slope activities include family sledging races ÂŁ8pp, 45min taster lessons (Age 11+) ÂŁ15, SnoAcademy Intro lessons (Age 3-10 years ski) (Age 7-10 board) ÂŁ15. Tel: 0871 222 5673 for more info.

Children’s holiday activities Shuttleworth Collection Glamourous Georgians: Monday 27 July & Tuesday 28 July Carnival of the Animals: Tuesday 4 August Viking Invaders: Monday 11 & Tuesday 12 August The Secret Garden: Monday 16 & Tuesday 17 August The Garden Room will be open to families with colouring in sheets etc on the following dates. (Free to Garden visitors only).

Friday 31 July, Friday 7, Friday 14 & Friday 21 August.

The Shuttleworth Collection , Shuttleworth (Old Warden) Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade www.shuttleworth.org/ Tel: 01767 627927 Children's activities Wrest Park, Silsoe Awesome Archaeology: Monday 20 - Friday 24 July Ugly Bug Safari: Monday 27- Friday 31 June Heroes and Villains – Highwaymen Stories: Monday 3 - Friday 7 August.

Discoveries and Inventions: Monday 17- Friday 21 August.

Victorian Delights: Monday 24 - Friday 28 August More info: www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrest Movie Mornings Thursday 23 July, 10.30am: “Big Hero 6�

Thursday 30 July 10.30am: “Shaun the Sheep�

Thursday 3 September 10.30am: “Home�

Rufus Centre, Flitwick Tickets ÂŁ3 per person. Includes popcorn and a drink.

To book tel: 01525 631900.

Arts And Craft Playstation Tuesday 11 August, 10am – 4pm Tuesday 18 August, 10am – 4pm Tuesday 25 August, 10am – 4pm Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road, Luton Various activities. £2.50 per child. Tel to book: 01582 548600 Magic Show Thursday 13 August, doors open at 1.30pm and show starts at 2pm Rufus Centre, Flitwick Suitable for children aged 3 + and their families. Tickets £4. To book tel: 01525 631900.

Summer Fun Morning

Thursday 20 August, 8.45am-12noon Rufus Centre, Flitwick Taking the fun outdoors. Suitable for 4-9 year olds. Flitwick residents ÂŁ6.50 (non residents ÂŁ7). To book tel: 01525 631900.

Continued

Summer holiday clubs and activities Family Fun Day

Thursday 27 August, 11am-3pm Rufus Centre, Flitwick Entry (Children £4; adults free) includes 3 tokens for attractions including Punch & Judy Show, Helter Skelter, Pony Rides and more.

Bring your own picnic. More info tel 01525 631900.

Children’s Craft Activities at The John Bunyan Museum

The John Bunyan Museum in Bedford is running a fun programme of children’s craft activities every Thursday in August. Drop-in sessions, £2 per child, suitable for age 4+, accompanied.

‘Stained-glass fun’ Thursday 6 August, 11am - 3.30pm Have a go at creating your own ‘stained-glass’ windows to take home ‘Fantastic Flowers’ Thursday 13 August, 11am – 3.30pm Design and make your own mini-flower arrangement - a great summer gift!

‘Clay Beasts’ Thursday 20 August – 11am – 3.30pm Have fun creating your own beast out of clay.

‘Monster Masks’ Thursday 27 August – 11am - 3.30pm Make your own 3D monster mask.

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Summer Sports Courses

Courses run from 20th July to 28th August

John Bunyan Museum & Library, Bunyan Meeting, Mill Street, Bedford, MK40 3EU. Open Tuesday to Saturday 11am-4pm, and admission is free. Tel: 01234 270303 email: curator@bunyanmeeting.co.uk www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk/museum Mead Open Farm

Get down to Mead Open Farm to explore the A-Maizing Maze (August, weather permitting), hop on board for a Tractor & Trailer ride, pick a winning sheep in the Lamb National every day at 1pm, race Go-karts or have a Crazy Golf competition

Tennis Bike Ability Golf Indoor Bowls Dance Paddle Sport Rowing Sailing Wet n Wild & much more!

There is also the newly opened Shaggy’s Cove, with its irresistible combination of sand and water. In the absence of a real beach in central England, this is the perfect substitute for excavating and building in sand – buckets and spades are provided, of course! Having attended the launch weekend with my son, I can confirm the new attraction is a real winner!

Summer Playschemes

Other attractions include Topsy Turvy Towers, an amazing outdoor adventure playground full of climbing, sliding and swinging fun. There’s also the Sky Trail, a high ropes course with narrow, swaying bridges to cross with only ropes and a safety harness to hold you up, and its miniature brother, Sky Tykes, for toddlers. And Giant’s Rock gives kids the opportunity to try a bit of mountaineering as well!

Mead Open Farm based in Billington, near Leighton Buzzard, is open daily from 10am-6.30pm.

More info: www.meadopenfarm.co.uk or tel: 01525 852954 Futures Fun Factory

Futures Fun factory is great place for young children aged from 0 to 12 years. With three areas catering for babies, toddlers and older children it suits each age and stage. Older children will have huge fun as they let off steam charging around and exploring the slides, tunnels, ball pit and a drop slide (reserved for over 5s). Children will get tons of exercise without knowing it!

The child friendly, safe and secure setting also offers a comfortable seating area where the adults can relax. Parents, carers and children can have a break with a tasty bite and a drink in the Futures Café.

Futures Fun Factory can provide a fun packed party with food in a dedicated space for the birthday child and guests. They also offer exclusive bookings for large groups with a maximum capacity of 150 children.

Special summer offer: buy one child entry get one entry half-price with

their advert.

Games Schemes

Friday 31st July to Friday 21st August

18 venues across Bedford Borough

Only £2 per session!

Call Now...

01234 718829

For more information on summer activities in your area: www.bedford.gov.uk/sport @ katie.percival@bedford.gov.uk @boroughsports bedfordsportsdevelopment

More info: www.marshfarmfutures.co.uk/futures-fun-factory.html or tel 01582 492166.

To advertise: 01727 373929

July/August 2015

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Nature's classroom

Nature’s classroom

By Hannah Hunter

As parents we know that children are happy in the outdoors, and once even the most hardened of city-dwellers have got used to the damp and mud, they revel in unstructured time spent in the natural world.

This applies not only to small children, but older ones too – contact with nature is known to impact positively on teenage anxiety and depression.

Outdoor play can develop children’s understanding of risk, as well as testing their emotional and physical strength. Learning how high they can climb or how brave they can be, teaches them about themselves as well as how they relate to the environment. Contact with nature has even been shown to increase creativity and language development.

Children’s activity levels automatically go up when they are outdoors.

As childhood obesity has a direct link with inactivity, outdoor learning could be a key to tackling this growing problem.

Despite this, many of today’s children are missing out. According to Stephanie Hilborne OBE, Chief Executive of The Wildlife Trusts: “Children in 2015 are spending half as much time outdoors as they were a generation ago and it can not be unrelated that one in ten children suffer from depression. Society is starting to realise the risks that this separation from our natural environment poses to our children’s health and happiness.”

So what can you do as a parent to increase your kids’ contact with nature? Here we explore some of the options:

Forest schools Inspired by Danish ‘open air life’ nurseries, the first UK Forest School was started in Somerset in 1993, at Bridgewater College. Since then the movement has spread across the UK, with many Local Authorities employing trained Forest Schools practitioners to deliver a woodland learning experience each week, usually to primary-aged children and nurseries.

Leading charity, The Forest School Association, lists the principles governing the sessions. Small groups of children are taken into woodland or other natural environment, “to support the development of a relationship between the learner and the natural world.” Children are encouraged to explore their environments, taking supported risks, and the learning is child-centred rather than teacher-led.

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Clubs and classes If you’re not lucky enough to live close to a forest school, there are after-school clubs and classes that can support children’s learning outdoors. Many schools have nature or gardening clubs, often run by parent volunteers. Tried-and-tested outdoor organizations, the Scouts and Girl Guides, offer a range of activities and camps. The less traditional Woodcraft Folk, (www.woodcraft.org.uk) focus on developing children’s connection with activities exploring issues around nature and the natural environment.

Family nature days As well as providing accessible venues for school and group outings, the Wildlife Trusts run activities across the UK just for families and children, organised by local groups, ranging from ‘nature tots’ toddler groups to family pond-dipping days. Visit their website to find local information at wildlifetrusts.org.

Go to the Forestry Commission website at www.forestry.gov.uk, to find your nearest woodlands. They have a free app with maps and local information on camping, trails and activities. At many of their forest centres you can buy a pack that will take you on a ‘Superworm’ kids trail, which includes activities and challenges for younger children.

To get the whole family moving, you could try geocaching. The National Trust has set up free trails– all you need is a GPS enabled device that uses coordinates (you can use a smartphone). Download co-ordinates to find the caches (small waterproof boxes of ‘treasure’).

The Trust also provide less ‘techy’ outdoor activities for families – their 50 things to do before you're 11¾ is a good starting point.

You can pledge some ‘wild time’ with your children by signing up to The Wild Network – an organisation dedicated to reconnecting children with nature, at projectwildthing.com. They have a calendar of different events, and lots of fun activity ideas that will get you and your kids outdoors. The film that inspired the organization is available to watch online, it’s an interesting take on how to ‘re-brand’ nature to appeal to the younger generation, who they claim are suffering from ‘nature-deficit disorder’.

Health news

New technology at Bedford Hospital helps in the fight against cervical cancer

how much does he actually see?

(Unfortunately, he won’t know what he’s missing. Do you?)

Children under 16 are entitled to a free eye examination under the NHS

Bedfordshire women are benefiting from a new piece of medical technology which detects cancer and pre cancerous ‘hot spots’ in women which can lead to cervical cancer.

Doctors at Bedford Hospital are using the device called a DySIS (www.dysismedical.com) to help detect cervical changes and to help guide the best course of treatment for women to prevent them developing full blown cancer.

DySIS is helping in the fight against cervical cancer by picking up both changes which could go on to become cancer and those which can go undetected. The advanced cervical scan is also ensuring women don’t undergo unnecessary invasive treatment which can in some cases leave them with problems during pregnancy such as increased risk of premature birth.

Women are referred to Bedford Hospital for a procedure called a colposcopy – a detailed examination of the cervix (neck of the womb) – after they have had an abnormal cervical screening test – known as a smear – which requires further investigation The Colposcopy Service at Bedford Hospital sees over 1000 new women for examination each year of which close to 900 are referred after an abnormal smear test. Of those women, approximately 200 have high level pre cancerous changes and half would go onto develop into full blown cancer without treatment in the fullness of time.

Mr Jullien Brady, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist (pictured) of Bedford Hospital said the procedure is helping to prevent many of the women referred to the centre for examination each year from developing cancer. Bedford Hospital is one of several hospitals across the country using DySIS.

DUNSTABLE EYE CENTRE

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exam.

01582 608 449 www.decopticians.co.uk 5 Ashton Square, Dunstable, Bedfordshire LU6 3SN On presentation of this voucher | Cannot be used with any other offer

Supporting Breastfeeding The time has come again for World Breastfeeding Week, with 2015’s theme concentrating on working mothers and breastfeeding.

This 1-7 August, World Breastfeeding Week aims to support all women to combine work with child-rearing, particularly breastfeeding, in a productive manner. Although much has been achieved in 22 years of global action, with much stronger maternity entitlements and more actions taken to set up breastfeeding-friendly workplaces, many women still struggle with this. 2015’s World Breastfeeding Week hopes to gain support from all sectors to enable women everywhere to work and breastfeed, to encourage all employers to support their staff if they want to continue breastfeeding, and to inform people about the latest in maternity protection entitlements, plus much more!

Find out more at www.worldbreastfeedingweek.org

Cut out obesity

Compulsory first aid

Over 30,000 people have signed a petition by the British Heart Foundation to ban junk food adverts before the 9pm watershed, as new statistics show that the majority of UK parents believe stopping children being exposed to junk food adverts will help prevent obesity. Around 30% of children in the UK are overweight or obese, increasing their risk of being overweight as an adult and developing coronary heart disease in later life. Yet loopholes in the UK regulatory system mean that junk food adverts which are banned during children’s programming can still be shown during family programming, such as X-Factor, when children’s TV viewing peaks. ‘By protecting young people against the sophisticated marketing techniques of junk food advertisers we can help tackle the obesity crisis which threatens the heart health of future generations,’ said Mike Hobday, Director of Policy at the British Heart Foundation. ‘We urge the UK Government to heed the public’s clear call and take immediate action.’

New nursery and pre-school staff will be required to undertake paediatric first aid for the first time, thanks to new government proposals. The new proposals will mean that newly qualified staff with a childcare Level 2 and 3 qualification must have an emergency paediatric first aid or full paediatric first certificate – a lifesaving change which will add approximately 15,000 additional trained early years professionals to our nurseries and pre-schools every year.

There will also be a new deal in place to help early years providers to buy life-saving defibrillator machines at a reduced price.

The plans have received the support of parents Joanne and Dan Thompson, who have been campaigning for the change following the tragic death of their daughter Millie at nursery in October 2012. Their important campaign culminated in an e-petition signed by over 103,000 people. ‘As a parent myself, I know that every single mum and dad wants the confidence that those tasked with caring for their child have the right training should the absolute worst happen,’ said Childcare and Education Minister, Sam Gyimah.

To advertise: 01727 373929

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What's on: July-August 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 Rhymetime Mondays & Tuesday (Term time), 10.45 to 11.15 Story & Activity Time Wednesdays (Term time) 10.45 to 11.15

Military WW1 Air pageant Sunday 5 July, airshow starts 2pm The Shuttleworth Collection , Shuttleworth (Old Warden) Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade www.shuttleworth.org Tel: 01767 627927 Ampthill Gala Day Sunday 5 July, 12.30pm onwards Ampthill Great Park, Ampthill Family day out with literary tent, arena acts and parade which arrives at the Park at 1.15pm.

More info: www.ampthillfestival.co.uk

Record Breakers: Get Set, Get Record Breaking Saturday 11 July, 11 – 11.45am, Luton Central Library; 2.15 – 3pm, Stopsley Library Get set with your materials for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge. Help break a Guinness World Records title and raise money for Keech Hospice Care. Free.

'Castle Comedy for Kids' Sunday 12 July, 12 noon &, 3pm Castle Mound, Newnham Road, Bedford Fun family afternoon. Free tickets. More info: www.lovebedford.co.uk

Live music plus dedicated “KidZone” for children up to 14 years. Free. More info: www.dunstable.gov.uk/events The Abstract Room Saturday 18 July – Sunday 27 September Connections Gallery, Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford Help to turn a gallery into a giant abstract artwork. Free activity suitable for all. Part of the Bedfordshire Museums Summer Passport Scheme.

Hockwell & Leagrave Community Festival Lego & Duplo Club Saturday 18 July, 12-3pm Saturdays (All Year), Hockwell Ring Community Luton Race for Life 10.45 to 11.45 Centre, Mayne Avenue, LU4 9LB Sunday 5 July Ages 2+ More info: Stockwood Park, All the above at Dunstable London Road, Luton “Bunyan on a Plate- illustrating www.luton.gov.uk/events Library £14.99 adult to enter; free for The Pilgrim’s Progress” Glow Worm Walk under 5s Tuesday 14 July-Saturday 26 The Great Railway Treasure Saturday 18 July, 10pm www.luton.gov.uk/events or September, 11am-4pm Hunt www.raceforlife.org John Bunyan Museum & Library, Meet at Sharpenhoe Car Park, Visit Ridgmont Heritage Centre, Sharpenhoe Rd, Streatley Bunyan Meeting, Mill Street, open Tues-Sat from 10am-4pm Great Barford Lower School Discover these magical Bedford & Leighton Buzzard Railway to creatures. Bring your own torch.

Summer Fete Exhibition which looks at how take part in the Treasure Hunt Saturday 11 July 12pm - 3pm John Bunyan’s famous book The Each walk will be lead by one of (closes 30 September 2015) our Ranger team. All tickets £4 Silver Street, Great Barford, Pilgrim’s Progress has been organised by Peter's Railway. per person. Booking essential.

MK44 3JU illustrated over 300 years, in More info: www.petersrailMore info: www.nationaltrust.org.uk Human fruit machine, Nerf gun many different countries. /dunstabledowns way.com/treasure-hunt.aspx.

Inflatable fun, cake stall, raffle, Free Admission.

BBQ & refreshments, craft stall & Tel. 01234 270303.

Best of British Evening Bricks in Motion – History of lots more. Admittance 50p for www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk/ Airshow Transport in Lego Adults. Children go free. museum Saturday 18 July, gates open Saturday 4 July- Sunday 11am, airshow from 6pm.

6 September Russell Lower School A Midsummer Night's The Shuttleworth Collection , Stockwood Discovery Centre, Summer Fete Dream....in Bedford Park!

Shuttleworth (Old Warden) London Road, Luton Saturday 11 July, 12-2pm Friday 17 July, picnic area Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade Lego exhibition. Admission Russell Lower School, Queens open from 7pm, performance Adult £28 ; children under 16 charges apply.

Road, Ampthill from 7.45pm. free. www.shuttleworth.org More info: Bouncy castle, stalls, games, Bedford Park, Bedford www.lutonculture.com crafts, BBQ, refreshments, live Big Spirit Theatre join forces with Tel: 01767 627927 music & raffle. Entry by donation. Pavilion at the Park to present an Record Breakers: On Your Farley Big Local Community abridged version of one of Marks Festival Japanese Fan Festival Craft Shakespeare's most popular Saturday 4 July, 12-3pm Saturday 11 July, 10-11am comedies. Bring a picnic or enjoy Saturday 18 July, 11 – 11.45am, Leagrave Library; 2.15 – 3pm, Farley Community Centre, Leighton Buzzard Library the Lamb Spit Roast!

Marsh Farm Library; Delphine Close, Luton (free tickets) Book tickets via: Thursday 23 July, 11 – www.pavilion.attheparkbed11.45am, Lewsey Library; High Town Festival and Food Big Iftar ford.co.uk/events/ Saturday 25 July, 11 – 11.45am, Market Saturday 11 July, 7pm-10pm Luton Central Library, 2.15 – Saturday 4 July, 1-6pm Inspire FM, Chaul End Communi- Aliens Love Underpants 3pm, Stopsley Library.

High Town Road, Luton ty Centre, 515 Dunstable Road, Friday 17 July 4.30pm; LU4 8QN More info: Saturday 18 July 11am & 2pm; Tuesday 28 July, 11 – 11.45am, Bury Park Library Family Fun Time: Mad Hatter's www.luton.gov.uk/events Sunday 19 July 11am Tea Party Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Regency Garden Party Saturday 4 July, 11-11.45am, Record Breakers: Summer Court Drive, Dunstable Sunday 19 July, gates open 12 Leagrave Library; 2.15-3pm, Reading Challenge More info: noon. Event finishes 5.30pm.

Marsh Farm Library Saturday 11 July – Saturday 5 www.grovetheatre.co.uk The Shuttleworth Collection , Come dressed as your favourite September Shuttleworth (Old Warden) character and take part in a This year's theme is Record Let's Go Fly a Kite Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade caucus race as we celebrate 150 Breakers. It's free to join the Saturday 18 July, 11am-3pm Celebrate the first anniversary of years of Alice in Wonderland. library, and the more books you Kempston Library the Swiss Garden re-opening, Ages 5+. Free. read, the more prizes you get.

Drop in. to design & make your first ever Regency Garden Party!

Children receive stickers and own kite to take home Children under 16 go free. certificate for reading six books, a www.shuttleworth.org zip tag/key ring for twelve and a Party in the Park gold medal for every child who Saturday 18 July, 12 noon-8pm Tel: 01767 627927 reads eighteen! More info.

www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

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Grove House Gardens, Dunstable

What’s On 'Amazing Bedford People' Sunday 19 July at 12 noon, 2.30pm & 5pm Castle Mound, Newnham Road, Bedford Tailor-made for a Bedford audience and telling the story of some of Bedford's heroes through the ages. Oodles of fun for children of all ages.

More info: www.lovebedford.co.uk Children’s Story Competition Sunday, 19 July, 12.30 pm – 5pm Stotfold Mill, Mill Lane, Stotfold Winners will be voted on by visitors and prizes will be awarded to the winner in each section. More info: www.stotfoldmill.com Children's craft activities Mosaic Craft, Tuesday 21 July, 11am-3pm Picture Frames, Thursday 23 July, 11am-3pm Craft Time, Friday 24 July, 2.30-3.30pm Hama Beads, Tuesday 28 July, 11am-3pm Summer Crafts, Thursday 30 July, 11am-3pm All at Kempston Library Pond Dipping - Kids' Outdoor Activity Thursday 23 July, 10am – 3pm. Sessions at 10am, 11.30am & 1.30pm Tuesday 11 August, 10am-3pm.

Sessions at 10am, 11.30am & 1.30pm Marston Vale Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine.Discover what amazing creatures live in the pond and make a pond pendant or minibeast medal. ÂŁ4 per child.

Suitable for ages 4-10. To book, call 01234 767037 or email info@marstonvale.org.

Extra Fun! With all the animal activities plus Topsy Turvy Towers, Sky Trail, the A-Maizing Maze+, Lamb National and loads more – there’s so much to do at Mead Open Farm whatever the weather!

NEW! Sand & Water Play

Near Leighton Buzzard LU7 9JH +August, weather permitting.

through a musical journey finding friends and adventure along the MOF-AM-15-082 Families 118x70.indd way. Perfect for small children.More info: www.bedfringe.com The Rant of Haricot Vert: A Green Bean Opera Friday 24 July, 4-5pm The Studio At The Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter's Street, Bedford What happens when a bean has something to say? As she sings her way through fact and fiction, will Haricot just sit back and take it like a bean? More info: www.bedfringe.com

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Aeromodellers Weekend Saturday 25 & Sunday 26 July, %R[ 2IŇ•FH (must pre-book) model flying 10am-6pm.

The Shuttleworth Collection, )XOO 6XPPHU 3URJUDPPH DYDLODEOH ZZZ HYHQWV Ň–LWZLFN JRY XN Shuttleworth (Old Warden) Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade Canoe Race Bee and Honey Day Children under 16 go free!

Saturday 25 July Sunday 26 July, 11am – 4pm www.shuttleworth.org Families Bedfordshire Ad_Drama.indd Bedford.

1 12/06/2015 Bedford Embankment, Stockwood Discovery Centre, Tel: 01767 627927 In aid of Keech Hospices. More London Road, Luton info: www.canoerace.co.uk Take part in different bee themed Kite Festival activities and learn all about bees Saturday 25 July & Sunday 26 Smelly Feet and beekeeping with the July, 11am – 5pm Saturday 25 July, 1-2pm & Bedfordshire Beekeepers Dunstable Downs, Chilterns Sunday 26 July, 3-4pm Association. Free.

Gateway Centre, Whipsnade The Marvellous Imaginary The Quarry Theatre, 26 St Road, Dunstable Menagerie Everything Goes!

Enjoy a fantastic atmosphere and Peter's Street, Bedford Thursday, 23 July, More info: Sunday 26 July be enthralled by the amazing 1-2pm & 4-5pm www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk Leighton Buzzard Railway, aerial acrobatics as the profesRussell Park, Bedford Page's Park Station, Billington An enormous exotic caravan has sional kite display teams put on a show stopping spectacular. More African and Caribbean Fun Day Road, Leighton Buzzard suspiciously arrived in town Delve into the stores and sheds, complete with strange characters info: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ Saturday 25 July, 12 noon – 8pm to bring out some of the interestdunstabledowns that entertain, amuse and Lewsey Park (off Pastures Way), ing bits that you don't often see. beguile. More info: Luton More info: www.buzzrail.co.uk Glow Worm Walk www.bedfringe.com More info: Saturday 25 July, 10pm www.luton.gov.uk/events Dunstable Downs, Chilterns Sing Along With The Frogs’ Gateway Centre, Dunstable Chorus Canal Festival Road, Whipsnade Friday 24 July, 12-1pm & Saturday 25 July, 11am-5pm Come and observe these Sunday, 26 July, 11am-12pm.

Tiddenfoot Waterside Park, fascinating little creatures at The Studio At The Quarry night. Your own torch for viewing Leighton Buzzard Theatre, 26 St Peter's Street, Organised by Leighton Linslade would be essential. Tickets ÂŁ4 Bedford Council. More info: per person. Booking essential.

Join Coco as she takes you www.leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk More info tel: 01582 500920 To advertise: 01727 373929

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What's on: July-August Deadly Summer Shows Saturday 25 JulyMonday 27 July Whipsnade Zoo Steve Backshall is back with his deadly show! Plus Deadly Trail runs from 18 July-27 September.

More info: www.zsl.org/deadly Bright Sparks Monday 27 July-Sunday 2 August, 9.30am-5pm and throughout August.

Bletchley Park. Fun activities for the whole family at the home of the codebreakers.

More info: www.bletchleypark.org.uk Record Breakers: Animal Edutainment Monday 27 July, 9.45 – 10.45am, Leagrave Library; 12 – 1pm, Bury Park Library.

Tuesday 28 July, 11am – 12pm, Stopsley Library Meet and touch record breaking animals with Animal Edutainment.

Suitable for ages 3+. £3 per child.

Book via the Library.

Fantastic Mr Fox Thursday 30 July, 6pm University of Bedfordshire Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford More info and to book: www.beds.ac.uk/theatre Dragons, Bugs & Butterflies Thursday 30 July 10am-2pm.

Sessions 10am, 11.30am & 1.30pm Tuesday 25 August, 10am-3pm.

Sessions at 10am, 11.30am & 1.30pm Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine Explore the park to see what minibeasts you can catch with sweep nets and bug pots. £4 per child. Suitable for ages 4-10. Tel to book: 01234 767037 or email info@marstonvale.org

Kippers Birthday Party Thursday 30 July, 11 – 11.45am, Marsh Farm Library; Thursday 6 August, 2.15 – 3pm, Stopsley Library; Wednesday 12 August, 11 – 11.45am, Leagrave Library; Monday 24 August, 2.15 – 3pm, The Magic Porridge Pot & Lewsey Library; Other Tasty Tales Tuesday 25 August, 11 – Tuesday 28 July, 3-4pm 11.45am, Bury Park Library.

The Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter's 25 years of Kipper: 45 minutes of Street, Bedford More info: fun for young children and their www.bedfordtheatre.co.uk families. Free.

Working Wednesdays Wednesday 29 July – Wednesday 19 August, 12 – 2pm Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road, Luton Every Wednesday see stationary steam engines in all their working glory. Free. More info: www.lutonculture.com Summer Day – Hoo's Kids Book Fest Wednesday 29 July, 11am-3pm Luton Hoo Walled Garden Fun and interactive book event for all the family. More info: www.facebook.com/ hooskidsbookfest Widdershin’s Story Time: The Princess & The Pea Thursday 30 July, 12- 12.40pm The Studio At The Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter's Street, Bedford More info: www.bedfringe.com Widdershins’ Story Time: Granny Dumpling Thursday 30 July- 2pm-2.40pm The Studio At The Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter's Street, Bedford More info: www.bedfringe.com

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Animal Entertainment Event Friday 31 July, 2.30-3.30pm Kempston Library Record Breakers Launch Event Park Live Friday 31 July, 6pm onwards Bedford Park, Bedford Featuring Happy Mondays, Stereo MC’s & ASH. More info: www.lphconcerts.co.uk AUGUST Pop up Cinema Every Thursday throughout August, bring your blankets and grab a spot in the Archaeological Park, Castle Quay in Bedford to watch a classic on the big outdoor screen. Free. More info: www.lovebedford.co.uk Farmyard Fun Saturday 1 August, 11-3pm Kempston Library Farmyard arts and crafts.

Bedford Proms Saturday 1 August, 6pm onwards Bedford Park, Bedford Popular classics and film scores, with firework display to finish.

Children under 5 free. More info: www.lphconcerts.co.uk

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

Record Breakers: Cool Tech Saturday 1 August, 11 – 11.45, Leagrave Library; 2.15 – 3pm, Marsh Farm Library; Tuesday 4 August, 11 – 11.45am, Luton Central Library; Thursday 6 August, 11 – 11.45am, Stopsley Library. Free.

Pond Dipping in the Nature Reserve Wednesday, 5 August, 10am-4pm Stotfold Mill, Mill Lane, Stotfold More info: www.stotfoldmill.com

Fantastic Mr Fox Thursday 6 August, 7pm University of Bedfordshire Penguin Charity Weekend Saturday 1 & Sunday 2 August Theatre, Polhill Avenue, Bedford To book: www.beds.ac.uk/theaWoburn Safari Park tre/boxoffice Help raise money for the vulnerable Humboldt Penguin.

Big Wild Sleepout More info: www.woburnsafari.co.uk/events Saturday 8 August, 5pm & Sunday 9 August, 10am The Pantalooons perform Jane RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy Austen's Pride and Prejudice Camp under the stars and Saturday 1 August, 1pm & connect with nature. Booking 6pm. Sunday 2 August, 1pm essential. Limited pitches. More RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy info tel: 01767 680541 Open air theatre. Tickets: www.thepantaloons.co.uk or Marsh Farm Area North more info tel: 01767 680541 Festival Saturday 8 August, 12-4pm Minions (film) Futures House, The Moakes, Saturday 1, Thursday 6, Marsh Farm, Luton More info: Tuesday 11, Saturday 15 & www.luton.gov.uk/events Thursday 20 August, 2pm Leighton Buzzard Library Record Breakers: Way To Go! Theatre, Lake Street, Leighton Saturday 8 August, Buzzard, The cute yellow 11 – 11.45am, creatures from Despicable Me Luton Central Library; 2.15 – turn out in their own film 3pm, Stopsley Library.

Tel: 0300 300 8059 or Tuesday 11 August, www.leightonbuzzardlibrary1 – 11.45am, theatre.co.uk Leagrave Library; 2.15 – 3pm, Lewsey Library UB40; Ali Campbell, Astro & Thursday 13 August, 11 – Mickey Reunited 11.45am, Marsh Farm Library Sunday 2 August, 6pm Suitable for ages 5+ . Free. onwards Bedford Park, Bedford. More info: Stockwood Family Fun Day www.lphconcerts.co.uk Sunday 9 August, 11am – 4pm Stockwood Discovery Centre, Classic Car & Bike Show London Road, Luton Sunday 2 August, 12 noon-4pm A family Fun Day full of rides, Rufus Centre, Flitwick games and entertainment. Free.

Adults £3, children go free!

More info tel: 01525 631900.

Wardown Family Fun Day Saturday 15 August, Wings & Wheels Airshow 11am – 4pm Sunday 2 August, gates open Wardown Park Museum, Old 9am; airshow begins 2pm Bedford Road, Luton The Shuttleworth Collection , A family Fun Day full of rides, Shuttleworth (Old Warden) games and entertainment. Free.

Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade Vintage aircraft, historical Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom vehicles and motorcycles from Saturday 15 August, 1pm & the Collection and visitors own 4pm & Sunday 16 August, vehicles welcome!

10am & 1pm www.shuttleworth.org Milton Keynes Theatre Tel: 01767 627927 More info: www.atgtickets.com/venues/milMoomins on the Riviera (film) ton-keynes-theatre Tuesday 4 & Thursday 14 August, 2pm Leighton Buzzard Library Theatre, Lake Street, Leighton Buzzard, New film based on the comic adventures of the now famous bohemian trolls.

Tel: 0300 300 8059 or www.leightonbuzzardlibrary-

Flying Proms Saturday 15 August, gates open 12 noon; airshow 7pm, fireworks 9.45pm.

The Shuttleworth Collection , Shuttleworth (Old Warden) Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade Air display with backdrop of classical music. www.shuttleworth.org Tel: 01767 627927

Ruth Whenham, in some storytelling, pirate hat making and colouring in.

Tel to book: 01234 767037 or email info@marstonvale.org

Shrek the Musical Tuesday 18 August-Sunday 6 September Milton Keynes Theatre Based on the award-winning film.

More info: www.atgtickets.com/ Record Breakers: The BIG Stuff venues/milton-keynes-theatre/ Saturday 15 August, 11 – 11.45am, The Secret Garden Leagrave Library; Thursday 20 August 2.15 – 3pm, Starts 7pm, ends 10pm.

Marsh Farm Library; Swiss Garden, The Shuttleworth Tuesday 18 August, Collection , Shuttleworth (Old 11 – 11.45am, Warden) Aerodrome, Nr Bury Park Library; Biggleswade Thursday 20 August; Outdoor theatre. More info: 2.15 – 3pm, www.shuttleworth.org Luton Central Library.

Tel: 01767 627927 Find out what’s been supersized and help an everyday object Dunstable Rocks become really BIG! Free.

Saturday 22 August, 12 noon-10pm Eurovision Revisited!

Grove House Gardens, Sunday 16 August, gates open Dunstable 1pm, entertainment from 3pm.

Popular free outdoor music event.

The Shuttleworth Collection , More info: Shuttleworth (Old Warden) www.dunstable.gov.uk/events Aerodrome, Nr Biggleswade Eurovision tribute band day!

Parkfest4 www.shuttleworth.org Saturday 22 August, 12 Tel: 01767 627927 noon-7pm Leagrave Common, Sundon Park Rushmere Summer Fayre and Road, Sundon, Luton Dog Show Family fun day. More info: Sunday 16 August www.luton.gov.uk/events Rushmere Country Park, Linslade Road, Leighton Buzzard The Pantaloons perform Much Summer fayre with craft stalls, fun Ado About Nothing games and popular dog Saturday 22 August, show. More info: 1pm & 6pm. info@greensandtrust.org or RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy Tel: 01525 234260 Open air theatre. Tickets: www.thepantaloons.co.uk or Princesses & Pirates more info tel: 01767 680541 Dress Up Day Sunday 18 August Record Breakers: Human Leighton Buzzard Railway, Page's Touch Park Station, Billington Road, Saturday 22 August, Leighton Buzzard 11 – 11.45am, Another fun dress-up day to help Luton Central Library. the long summer holidays go by. 2.15 – 3pm, Stopsley Library Accompanied kids travel free of Wednesday 26 August, charge on a return train ride.

11 – 11.45am, More info: www.buzzrail.co.uk Leagrave Library, Thursday 27 August, Arts and Crafts Day 11 – 11.45am, Tuesday 18 August, 10am-4pm Marsh Farm Library Stotfold Mill, Mill Lane, Stotfold Suitable for ages 5+. Free.

More info: www.stotfoldmill.com The Pantaloons family Captain Sillyvoice - Pirate Hat performance of Treasure Island Making Sunday 23 August, 1pm & 6pm Tuesday 18 August, RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy 10am – 3pm. Sessions at 10am, Open air theatre.

11am, 1pm & 2pm.

Tickets: Forest Centre, Station Road, www.thepantaloons.co.uk or Marston Moretaine more info tel: 01767 680541 Join Captain Sillyvoice author

JOHN BUNYAN MUSEUM

Bedford

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

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

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

01234 270303

A Wild Night Out! At Rushmere Country Park Friday 28 August Rushmere County Park, Linslade Road, Leighton Buzzard Experience the Park at night, learn more about the activities of bats, moths and badgers in their element. To book: info@greensandtrust.org or tel 01525 234260 Record Breakers: Action!

Adventure!

Saturday 29 August, 11 – 11.45am, Leagrave Library; 2.15 – 3pm, Marsh Farm Library; Saturday 5 September, 11 – 11.45am, Luton Central Library; 2.15 – 3pm, Stopsley Library How many volumes of The World Record Book can you lift with your breath? Luton Libraries current record is eight! Free.

her to listen to her favourite tales during story-time sessions. More info: www.woburnsafari.co.uk/ events August Bank Holiday Barbecue Sunday 30 August & Monday 31 August, 12.30-3.30pm Woburn Safari Park at the Safari Lodge at the heart of the Foot Safari. More info: www.woburnsafari.co.uk/ events

Family Fun Day Monday 31 August, 1-4pm Marston Pavilion Sports Field, Bedford Road, Marston Moretaine Fun day to include bouncy castle, stalls and queen and prince pageant, to help raise funds to buy an autism puppy for Alanna, aged 6 years old, a Marston resident. If you would like more information on the Alanna Appeal, please see the Facebook Page Twinwood Festival (“Alanna Appeal) or contact Saturday 29-Monday 31 August Susan West Mob: 07576 338933 Twinwood Arena, Clapham email: west6893@msn.com.

UK's largest vintage music and dance extravaganza in its 14th year. More info: www.twinwoodfestival.com Meet Peppa Pig Monday 31 August Woburn Safari Park Appearing at Elephant Meadow at intervals throughout the day, fans will have a chance to meet Peppa Pig, get a photo and join

To advertise: 01727 373929

July/August 2015

15

Things to do in Biggleswade and Sandy!

Let imaginations run wild in Biggleswade and Sandy!

By Hazel Newhouse

With my 3 young children, I have found two hidden treasures in Central Bedfordshire where our imaginations can run wild, finding all sorts of energy burning imaginative worlds.

What’s on

Chambers Way Play Area and Sandpit Based in the Saxon housing area of Biggleswade, next to the leisure centre is a large play park and sandpit. The play park boasts huge climbing frames, rope climbs, slides and huge zip-wire and log swing. Set away from the sandpit is a tunnel to crawl through and climbing frame suitable for toddlers and smaller children.

trekking through woods, spotting birds and wildlife of all shapes and sizes. Discoverthe hidden treasures of our local woodland, heathland, formal gardens and even Iron Age archaeology within the 180 hectares of land – nicely sign posted like a chose-your-own-adventure story. There are also special events on throughout the year which can all be found on the RSPB The Lodge website (www.rspb.org.uk/).

In the summer holidays many parents and excited children flock to the park, set up picnics and run wild! Imagine walking through the desert, and finding a huge lost city, you must walk the rope bridge to make your way to the great Timber Palace. Crawl through a cave and zip down a cliff. But make sure the evil monkeys don’t spot you!

Pick up an RSPB Explorer back pack from the reception to transform your child into a true adventurer! The back pack contains binoculars, bug viewers, wildlife guides and activity booklets. Why not sit in a hide and enjoy some quiet family time spotting birds, or take a picnic and have a really special time together.

The area is fenced, allowing parents to kick back and relax in the sun while children play. The park is free to visit and many hours can be spent playing safely.

You can refuel in the Saxon Leisure Centre Café too, which is only a short walk from the park.

RSPB, Sandy In Sandy, is the RSPB Centre, aka “The Lodge”. Both kids and adults can enjoy

Of course, if you wish to continue with imaginative play, you could pretend you’re walking through depths of the amazon, just watch out for Jaguars!

The Lodge is free, but there is a per-car-charge of £5 for non-members.

Hazel Newhouse is a family and lifestyle blogger at www.thenewhousefamily.co.uk. She lives in Bedfordshire with her 3 daughters, husband and various pets.

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