Families East Kent Magazine

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East Kent IN THIS ISSUE Be on trend with your child’s party Summer holiday camps guide Could tutoring help your child?

What’s on in May & June

RECRUITING NOW Successsful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside and without compromising family commitments or current career.

If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or you wish to develop an extrordinary lifestyle,

Please call Vicki King 07501 433 922

Issue 3 May/June 2018 familiesonline.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk Families East Kent

RUN RIOT THIS SUMMER

Discover a summer packed with events and the wonderful daily attractions of “the Loveliest Castle in the World”.

EXPERIENCE MORE leeds-castle.com

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28/03/2018 12:11

active this summer Explore the great outdoors Family fun

Event highlights

Walking & running Cycling Play area Archery Fossil hunting Geocaching Shelter building Forest school Obstacle course Military-style fitness

Best of Betteshanger 5 – 7 May

Read to succeed this summer!

Keep children reading with regular deliveries of inspiring books perfectly suited to their level.

It’s easy to succeed with Reading Chest!

The Beast 26 – 29 May Open Air Cinema 2 June Cycling Spectacular 28 – 29 July Wind Festival 5 August

Come and find us betteshanger-park.co.uk #betteshanger Sandwich Road, Deal

Betteshanger Park 2 Families East Kent

28772 J1 Betteshanger artwork 87mm wide ]x 130mm.indd 1

www.readingchest.co.uk Book rental for young readers

familiesonline.co.uk

05/04/2018 12:00

East Kent Managing Editor Rebecca Carr editor@familieseastkent.co.uk 07789 882 467 Advertising Amanda Biggs amanda@familiespublishing.co.uk Next issue July/August 2018 Booking deadline 1 June Artwork deadline 5 June

Contents

Printed By Holbrooks Printers Ltd

4. News & views 5. Competition to win a family break

Distributing to: Ashford, Canterbury, Faversham, Whistable, Herne Bay, Broadstairs, Margate, Ramsgate, Deal, Dover, Folkestone and all the areas in between.

Familieseastkentmagazine

Cover Image: Depositphotos © Families East Kent 2018 Families East Kent 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 East Kent are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families East Kent. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families East Kent ; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

6. Be on trend with your child’s party 7. Local party venue ideas 8. Summer holiday camps and courses guide 9. Clubs & classes news 10. Could tutoring help your child?

11. Outdoor adventure activities to enjoy this summer 12. What’s on in May and June

Editor’s Welcome Welcome to the May/June issue and the start of warm sunny weather (hopefully)!

We have a great issue with children’s party ideas, a summer holiday camps guide, clubs and classes news and we have a great competition to win a family weekend stay in Southampton with a visit to the newly extended Peppa Pig World at Paultons Park plus, you could also win an Annual Family Membership to Dreamland in our reader survey on page 15. I also hope you love the What’s on guide in this issue with details of great events and places to visit this summer.

Best Wishes Rebecca

Distributor Wanted

6 issues per year delivered to parents in East Kent

Deal, Dover & Folkestone We are looking for someone to distribute our magazines in the Deal, Dover & Folkestone area starting early July 2018.

ford area If you have a car and a few hours to spare pare and and would like to earn some extra money then cca for full please contact Rebecca for full details.

stkent.co.uk 789 882467

editor@familieseastkent.co.uk or 07789 882467

mum2mum market Saturday 19 May

St John’s Church of England Primary School, Canterbury

9:30-11:30am

Must see indoor nearly new sale

www.mum2mummarket.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Promote your business to over 40,000 parents in East Kent in our summer special July/August issue To feature in our next issue, email: editor@familieseastkent.co.uk or call 07789 882467. Book by 2 June Families East Kent 3

News & views Enjoy a family day out at Leeds Castle this summer Visitors never forget their first breathtaking vision of Leeds Castle in Kent. With nine centuries of history, fun daily attractions and 500 acres of beautiful Kentish parkland, there’s always something for everyone to enjoy.

Visit this summer to see the blossoming formal gardens, find your way through the yew-tree maze, enjoy free flying falconry displays, spectacular events and many more all-year-round attractions.

Summer at the Castle kicks off with the fantastic Leeds Castle Triathlon from 23–24 June, with further events continuing the fun throughout both July and August. Don’t miss the magnificent 40th Anniversary of the Leeds Castle Classical Concert on the 14th July; one of the most memorable summer evenings in the Kent events calendar. Bring a picnic and be entertained by field cannons, fireworks and much-loved music! From the Open-Air Theatre and Cinema shows, to the many more wonderful attractions, Leeds Castle has everything you need for a perfect summer’s day out.

Out of school activities improve educational attainment A study by researchers from NatCen Social Research at Newcastle University has found that children who take part in organised sports and after school clubs can improve primary school academic performance and social skills.

The study of 6,400 children in England found that those who took part in organised sports and physical activities at the ages of 5, 7 and 11 were almost one and a half times more likely to reach a higher than expected level in their Key Stage 2 (KS2) maths test at the age of 11. According to the Lead Investigator, Emily Tanner of NatCen said “Results showed that sports clubs were positively associated with attainment outcomes at age 11, even when accounting for prior attainment at age 7.”

The research also found that disadvantaged children who attended after-school clubs developed better social, emotional and behavioural skills than those, also from similar social circumstances, who did not. For more information≠≠ visit www.ucl.ac.uk

Be inspired about non-fiction books When children are learning to read, fiction is quite often favoured over non-fiction. Reading non-fiction is a necessary life skill and underpins all other learning. As children progress through school, it is important that they develop the skills to be able to read nonfiction texts, so they can gain knowledge and learn in all subject areas. It is important to foster a reading culture that accepts fiction and non-fiction on equal terms.

Non-fiction can inspire otherwise reluctant readers. Some children don’t see the point of reading fiction but enjoy reading for a purpose. Encouraging more non-fiction reading at home might be just the trigger needed to motivate them.

Try reading a non-fiction book to children at bedtime instead of a story. Sharing a non-fiction book will help children learn new vocabulary and access knowledge that they might not be able to read themselves. Enjoy discovering new things together!

When children are reading independently, it can be tricky to get non-fiction books that are at the right reading level. Reading Chest, the children’s book rental has a huge range of non-fiction titles, which are all book banded to ensure children are reading text at just the right level of difficultly.

Introduce children to age appropriate newspapers and magazines such as: First News (www.firstnews.co.uk) Okido, (www.okido.co.uk); National Geographic for Kids (www.natgeokids.com); The Week Junior (www.theweekjunior.co.uk).

OFFER!

For more information and reading advice go to www.readingchest.co.uk. Families readers will get £5 off their first month’s membership to Reading Chest with the code FAM18.

Get £5 off your first month FAM18

New times table test for year 4 pupils The government has announced plans to have all Year 4 pupils sit a compulsory times table test. The test will be tried out in a sample of schools with it being made available on a voluntary basis to all schools across England from June 2019. It will become mandatory in June 2020.

The test has been described by the Government as a 5 minute “onscreen check” which is designed to help ensure children know the multiplication tables up to 12 off by heart and has been designed to avoid causing additional stress for children and teachers.

The Government has also said results from the check will not be published at school-level, and will not be used by Ofsted and others to force changes in schools.

Some teachers’ unions have expressed strong concerns about the introduction of another test being an unnecessary additional burden on schools.

4 Families East Kent

familiesonline.co.uk

Peppa Pig World at Paultons Park is now bigger and better than ever

Paultons Park in Hampshire is home to the world’s first and UK exclusive Peppa Pig World and from the 16 May 2018 there will be more Peppa fun with the opening of a large new expansion.

The highlight will be two fun new rides, The Queen’s Flying Coach Ride and Grampy Rabbit’s Sailing Club. The Queen’s Flying Coach Ride will take families on a royal tour around part of Peppa Pig World in individual coaches starting from the top of the majestic Queen’s Castle. Hop aboard brightly coloured boats at Grampy Rabbit’s Sailing Club, join the adventure and sail around Peppa Pig World and discover Pirate Island!

As well as the new rides, there will be plenty of new Peppa friends to meet, including Gerald Giraffe and Mr Bull and his maintenance team with their digger and crane! Paultons Park has also built an additional dedicated baby care centre and a new Peppa- themed catering outlet called The Queen’s Kitchen!

Peppa Pig World has over 5 acres of fully themed fun! There are already 7 fabulous rides including Miss Rabbit’s Helicopter Flight, Peppa’s Big Balloon Ride, Grandpa’s Little Train, George’s Dinosaur Adventure and you can even ride in a ‘cloud’ around Windy Castle. Peppa Pig World features a huge indoor play area, Georges Spaceship Playzone and superb animated themed attractions including a chance to visit Peppa and her family in their house. Peppa Pig World is also home to Daddy Pig’s Big Tummy café and Peppa’s Toy Shop, the largest (and only) dedicated Peppa Pig shop in the World!

Plus, there is lots more to enjoy at Paultons Park including Lost Kingdom, an amazing Dinosaur theme park world that features two world class family rollercoasters, life-like animatronic dinosaurs, Jurassic themed family rides, a Prehistoric adventure play park and an amazing opportunity to come face to face with ‘living’, walking Dinosaurs! Guests can soar high into the skies upon on The Flight of the Pterosaur, a mighty and unique suspended coaster, which takes family adventurers swooping high and low around a prehistoric landscape. The Dinosaur Tour Co. takes visitors on an exciting 4x4 jeep expedition to come face to face with some of the largest and most fearsome dinosaurs to have walked the planet.

Little Africa opened earlier this year. See the Park’s own little corner of Africa and discover the amazing animals and birds of the savanna. From Meerkats, to Porcupines, Lizards to Mongoose there are animals of all shapes and size to delight and entertain. Visit the nocturnal house to see the Fennec Foxes, Giant Pouched Rats and Scorpions before venturing back in to the picturesque free flying aviary to meet Trumpeter Hornbills, Black-Crowned Night Herons and many, many more fascinating species.

WIN a family short break at and entry to Paultons Park to enjoy this summer

Families East Kent Magazine has teamed up with Paultons Park and DoubleTree Hilton Hotel, Southampton to offer one lucky reader a two-night family short break for 2 adults and 2 children plus a family ticket to Paultons Park to enjoy this summer.

WIN!

Competition Enter by 30 June

The prize includes a two night stay in a family room at the DoubleTree Hilton Hotel, Southampton with breakfast and a family ticket for entry to Paultons Park including Peppa Pig World for the day.

To enter the competition email editor@familieseastkent.co.uk with your full name, address and tell us where Paultons Park Theme Park is or like our Facebook page, Families East Kent Magazine, click on the pinned post at the top of the page and tell us the answer on that post. Entries close on 30 June 2018.

T&C’s apply. Full details can be found on our website www.familiesonline.co.uk/local/east-kent/competitions.

No cash or prize alternative.

There is an amazing variety of things to see and do at Paultons Park all set within 140 acres of beautiful parkland. Come and see for yourself this summer. Further information including opening times is available online at paultonspark.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Families East Kent 5

Be on trend with your child’s party

Top Tips for a Budget Party Timing

Children’s parties are always a hot topic of conversation in most households across the country.

Who to invite? What theme? Which location? Claire Winter has talked to party specialists and planners to find out the top party ideas for 2018.

Unusual themes

Think of a party with a twist. Top party organiser Fable & Moon (www. fableandmoon.com) says “Children’s parties are becoming even more sophisticated in 2018! Unicorns and Mermaids are still going strong but expect a fresh twist on the theme.

Also expect to see wedding trends making their way into children’s parties, particularly celestial (moons and stars) and all things holographic. Think, oversized disco balls and lots and lots of sparkle!” © Thebelltentexperience.com

Andrew Pearce, co-owner of the belltentexperience.com says “we have seen a huge increase in bookings for children’s parties. Bell tents are fun and versatile. You can set them up indoors, or outside and kids love them. Sleeping in a tent is magical whatever age you are!”

Chocolate parties

Most kids love chocolate; it’s messy, fun and creative. What’s not to love? Hire a chocolatier to come to your house and teach your children to make some fantastic chocs.

Alternatively hire some moulds and melt dark, milk and white chocolate so they can make their own. The chocolate is hot so this option is probably not suitable for very small children.

The Chocolate Party People (www. thechocolatepartypeople.co.uk) offers a Build a Bar, Chocolate Pizzeria and Truffle Making package for kids. An extra bonus is they get to take away their chocolates instead of a party bag.

Unicorns are cool

Kids are still going unicorn crazy. Harriet Jones, founder of online boutique store Rockahula Kids (www.rockahulakids.com) says “2018 has to be the year that the unicorn trend and theme takes centre stage at children’s birthday parties.

Glamping

Belltent and glamping parties are going to be really popular especially during the summer months. Set up tents with themes like cowboys, intergalactic, or botanical. You can hire companies to put them up in the garden and if you haven’t got a garden set up the tents in the house. Older children can have a sleepover whilst the youngsters can go home.

6 Families East Kent

Over the last few months, we have seen an incredible increase in demand for unicornthemed accessories for party favours, whether it be hair clips, charms, necklaces or hairbands. Coupled with unicorns, we have noticed more interest in our rainbow themed accessories for party bags such as clips, rings, and bracelets which go hand-inhand with the mythical creature.” A kitsch, rainbow unicorn party sounds like just the ticket!

If you hold a party between 3pm and 5pm, you can provide party snacks or treats instead of a meal. Try fruit kebabs that you dip in melted chocolate for a fun treat. Hiring a chocolate fountain could also be a fun way to end the party. Just warn the parents not to dress their kids in their best party clothes! Older children would probably prefer a pizza delivery.

Try E-invites

Create your own digital invitations to email to guests. You can also use the free option at www.paperlesspost.com and pay a small amount using various other websites, like www.mini-epic.com. Founder of the business Jonathan says “Our digital invitations can be created and sent in just a few minutes, with no paper or postage involved, which not only saves you time and money but also saves some trees! But what’s proving really popular is the ability to download your Mini-Epic invitation to share via WhatsApp.”

Look for bargains

Your pound shop can be a treasure trove of party napkins and decorations. Buy plain paper bags and get the children to personalise them. You could also make cupcakes and get the kids to decorate them. Party favours and entertainment all at the same time.

Themed parties

Choose a theme like pirates, Alice in Wonderland or teddies for the younger kids and base all the games make all the games centred on your chosen theme. Decorations can be homemade – get the whole family involved. Pinterest is a great place to get inspiration.

Share

Split the cost by sharing the party with a classmate whose birthday is at a similar time.

Just make sure you agree who is doing what.

Don’t forget to say thanks

Take a group photo of all the kids at the party and print it off at Boots or use an online site.

Get your kids to write a thank you note on the back with a Sharpie or gold pen. A great momento and thank you all at once.

familiesonline.co.uk

Hiring a venue for your child’s party There are obvious disadvantages in hosting your child’s birthday party at your home. Breakages and damage, cramped play or entertainment space, space for limited number of guests, inadequate toilet facilities – all these things can hiring a venue an attractive proposition, despite the additional cost. Here are some things to consider when choosing a venue: Venues can be in demand - start checking availability at least four months in advance.

What is the capacity of the venue? Make sure it is able to accommodate all your child’s friends and, if appropriate, parents too. Venues have different capacities depending on whether guests will be seated or standing, or both. Take into account the space needed for any entertainment. A bouncy castle, for example, will take up a lot of space.

How child-friendly is your venue? Are there lots of steps for young children to manage?

Can you keep children in the designated party area or is the rest of the venue easily accessible?

Is there space for all the activities? If you are having an entertainer, think about where the children will sit and how much space that will take up. If you’re having a disco you’ll need to give the children plenty of space to dance, away from all the food and tables.

What’s included in the hire price? Most venues have table and chairs included but it’s important to check.

What are the kitchen facilities like? Is there space to prepare food? What do you need to supply yourselves?

Will the venue allow you to hire a DJ or entertainment? Can you decorate the room? Some venues prefer you not to hang decorations, or have certain restrictions.

What time can you have access to the venue? Make sure you are clear on what time you will be allowed to access the venue and let your entertainers know. You also need to know what time you will need to vacate the venue and work out whether this gives you enough time to clear up.

When you do book a venue, get a contact name and confirm the details, preferably in writing. The last thing you want is a double booking on the party day!

B O OK YO U R PA R T Y! NOW

Local Party Ideas Baypoint Sports Club Sandwich, CT13 9QL baypointsportsclub.co.uk

Baypoint Sports Club offer fun-filled memorable parties for children. You can hire their venue from £25 per hour and bring your own party theme with you. You can also hire their sports hall from £30 per hour and they can provide a sports or football coach for an additional charge and they can also provide a bouncy castle from £75. To find out more call 01304 613022 or visit baypointsportsclub.co.uk.

Betteshanger Park

Deal, CT14 0BF betteshanger-park.co.uk

At Betteshanger we know a thing or two about what makes a fantastic birthday party and out packages offer something a bit different.

Whether you’ve got a budding Robin Hood, Katniss Everdeen or Chris Hoy our parties are all about gathering friends together, getting out of the house, away from screens and enjoying the great outdoors.

We offer lots of different activities and packages can be tailored to include everything you need. All you need to do is choose an activity (or two), let us handle the planning and organisation, and you can simply turn up and celebrate. Activities include archery, cycling, fossil hunting, shelter building and a military-style obstacle course. Visit betteshanger-park.co.uk to find out more.

Dreamland

Margate, CT9 1XJ dreamland.co.uk

Are you looking for somewhere different to celebrate your little ones birthday? We take fun seriously at Dreamland so let our professional team of party planners do all of the work for you – not to mention taking care of the mess!

From Under The Sea themed parties in The Octopus’s Garden softplay area for under 8s or skating in the retro Roller Room for under 16s, we’ve got the perfect location for your next party. Our amusement park features an exciting mix of family-friendly rides and thrill rides, plus a vintage arcade. You can even get a group discount on unlimited access wristbands, so your group can enjoy all the rides in the park, all day! For more information visit www.dreamland.co.uk/little-kidsparties, or email sales@dreamland.co.uk.

Perform Parties

0207 255 9120 performparties.co.uk

Looking for a party venue for your little one?

Dreamland has a range of options from soft play to skating in our retro roller room and unlimited access to family and thrill rides

DREAMLAND.CO.UK familiesonline.co.uk

Perform parties are high energy, fun and totally infectious. Based around a colourful theme, Perform’s enthusiastic party leaders use a magical mix of songs, games and laughter guaranteed to ensure every child is part of an enthralling adventure. From the moment the lively leaders walk in the door, they’ll give your child and friends the best birthday party they’ve ever had.

Whether your child wants to be a swashbuckling pirate, a shimmering mermaid or a dazzling superhero, they’ll be sure to have a brilliant time. Themes include: Superheroes, Mermaids and Pirates, Pirates and Princesses, Fairytale Forest, Knights and Princesses, Puppy Patrol, Popstarz, Moana, Ghost Hunters, Alice in Wonderland, Outer Space, Secret Spies, The Ice Queen, Dinosaurs, The Magician’s Chamber, Peter Pan, The Wizard of Oz and many more. To find out more or book a party call 0207 255 9120 or visit performparties.co.uk

Families East Kent 7

The benefits of summer camps and workshops Physical activity Much of a child’s time at school is spent sitting behind a desk so spending the day running around, swimming, hiking, or playing sport gives children a great chance to get moving.

Develop talents and skills At some camps, children may be given the opportunity to learn skills and take part in activities they have not encountered before.

Learning archery, painting or lacrosse may help children discover talents and interests they didn’t know they had.

Summer holiday camps and courses guide

By Andrew Campbell

The long summer holiday break is a great opportunity for children to take part in organised activities, play schemes, workshops or day camps either within their local area on a daily or weekly basis or, increasingly, attend an American-style residential summer Camp.

Here’s our guide to some of the options available, together with some advice on how to choose the right summer activity for your child.

These are independent holidays for unaccompanied children aged from 7 years and above and usually involve just a 7 break.

Children are supervised round the clock in a secure residential environment such as a boarding school. Group leaders usually take care of children’s pastoral and welfare needs whilst Instructors provide a programme of activities. Camps can offer specialist courses or a multi-activity programme.

years and above. They generally operate for 2 to 3 hours per day, running for just one day or as a progressive course over 4 to 5 days. Sports courses are often led by qualified instructors/coaches or by local authority sports/leisure centres, specialist swim centres or riding schools. National governing body awards can sometimes be achieved. Performing arts workshops tend to be run by performing arts schools who also offer term time classes for children.

Multi-activity day camps

Holiday play schemes

Residential camps

These are non-residential full-day camps running in your local area. They are for unaccompanied children from 3 years and above which usually run from Monday to Friday, offering a varied programme of sports or creative activities throughout the day. Typically multi-activity day camps involve 4 to 6 activities per day, with each activity session lasting between 1 and 1 ½ hours. Often the sessions focus on ‘tasters’ or introductions to a range of activities such as performing arts and outdoor adventure.

These offer non-residential full or part-day supervised childcare for unaccompanied children from age 3 and above but are usually run by voluntary organisations or local authorities. Activities at play schemes may be specific, such as sports or art and craft, or involve a range of different activities.

Many play schemes run off-site trips to attractions such as museums or parks. In the main, they are provided for children living in the catchment area of the venue.

Generally, children can attend for as many days as they wish, with a price discount for a full week’s attendance. Day camp arrival and departure times vary but the day usually starts between 9-10am and ends between 4-5pm. Many camps offer early drop off and late pick up options.

Most summer camps and courses are regulated by various independent bodies, or in some instances by government inspectorates such as Ofsted which monitors safety standards.

Sport & activity courses or workshops

Specialising in a specific sport or activity such as performing arts or art and craft, these courses are usually for children of 7 8 Families East Kent

How safe will your child be?

Police Checks - all registered day camps and plays schemes are required to get checks on specific staff.

Staff Qualifications - you may also want to check on staff qualifications. Most sports governing bodies have an official coaching scheme for instructors or leaders at various

Building confidence Discovering these new talents and developing new skills will, in turn, help children to grow in confidence and selfesteem.

Learning social skills Engaging with children from different schools, different areas and ultimately different backgrounds, is a great way to build social skills and to make new friends.

Developing independence Sometimes giving children the freedom to make decisions and plan their own time is a fantastic way for them to learn to be independent.

Leaving technology behind As fantastic as it is that we live in a world filled with TVs, mobile phones, lap tops and other devices, it is always great to encourage children to get outside for a good oldfashioned kick about and run around.

Enjoying the outdoors Climbing trees, changing a bike wheel, or building an outdoor camp can help ensure your child does not miss out on the learning benefits to be gained from the great outdoors and enjoy adventures they would not otherwise experience.

At summer camps children have the chance to just be children, away from the pressures of school, social media and the commercial world.

levels. It is a good idea to ask for further information on staff qualifications if the organisation does not explain its policy in its promotional material or on its website.

Will I be able to use childcare vouchers or claim tax credits?

You may be able to claim tax credits to help pay for your child’s summer activities. If you pay for them to attend and if the activity provider is registered and regulated then you can claim as you would for an afterschool club or childminder.

Parents enrolled in the childcare voucher scheme can also use their vouchers to subsidise the cost of summer childcare options including camps and courses.

However, the provider must be registered and be prepared to accept vouchers.

To check what help you could get with childcare costs, visit www.gov.uk/childcarecalculator familiesonline.co.uk

Clubs and Classes News Diddi dance are looking to expand Diddi dance have been offering funky dance sessions that increase confidence, coordination & creativity in pre-school children for over 15 years.

They are now looking for motivated individuals to come on-board and help the company to expand into East Kent.

Diddi dance started in 2003 when founder Anne-Marie noticed a lack of preschool dance classes for children aged 16 months upward that allowed them to freely explore movement in a fun yet structured environment. The award-winning dance provider covers 16 different dance styles with lesson plans that enhance & compliment the EYFS framework.

With a proven franchise system that has been running for over 10 years, more than 40 franchises in the UK and over 10 franchise industry awards, they have found their franchise opportunity works perfectly for individuals who want to be in business for themselves, not by themselves.

Visit www.diddidance.com/franchise for more information.

Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-12s Perform is a unique children’s drama school that has a special emphasis on child development. Perform uses a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s full potential. Run by highly experienced actorteachers, in small groups, Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination, and Concentration.

The perform curriculum ensures plenty of fun, using a mix of energetic games, catchy songs and funky dances. All class materials are written by Perform, with apps, CDs and videos that the children can play at home to keep the magic alive.

N E W M E M B E R S H I P R AT E S !

M E M BE R S H I P I N CLU D E S :

 Gym use

£30

 Fitness classes  Sauna & steam-room  Squash courts  All day usage

PER MONTH JUNIOR MEMBERSHIP & PROGRAMME AVA I L A B L E

(no peak restrictions)

FOR BOOKI NGS OR MORE I NFO GI VE U S A CALL TODAY !

Tel: 0 1 3 0 4 6 1 3 0 2 2 enquiries@baypointsportsclub.co.uk W W W. BAY P O I N TS P O RTS C LU B. CO.U K Email:

Ramsgate Road, Sandwich, Kent CT13 9QL

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Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions. Venues are available in Ashford, Canterbury, Faversham, Folkestone or Whitstable. Visit www.perform.org.uk/try or call 020 7255 9120 to book a free class today.

Get in shape with our great

from 8am - 6p

m

Baypoint Sports Club introduce a new Junior Programme Baypoint Sports Club offers a friendly club environment for sports, fitness, health and fantastic hospitality facilities for socialising. They provide value for money, a health and fitness hub that boasts an exceptional range of gym and sports activities, combined with a relaxed setting for dining and entertainment. Baypoint is open to members of the public who can drop into the restaurant at any time with access to the gym and sports facilities which can either be on membership or pay as you go basis.

Visit www.baypointsports.co.uk to find out more.

familiesonline.co.uk

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Recently, Baypoint Sports Club introduced there Junior programme featuring Football, Karate, Gym training, Squash, Golf for ages 5 - 18 years and they also offer Baby Yoga, Antenatal Yoga and Mother and baby yoga classes on Wednesday mornings.

Giving every child such an

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they can’t wait to come back!

Families East Kent 9

Could tutoring help your child?

By Claire Winter

In the last decade, the number of children who have a tutor has increased by one third.

At some point in their academic journey, it’s quite likely your child may need some additional support. This may be because you are preparing them for the 11 Plus, school entrance exams or because they are struggling in a particular subject.

A tutor is normally a teacher that will teach your child in a specific subject or exam technique. You can opt for 1:1 tutoring or tutoring in a small group or class. You can find a tutor via a tutoring agency, through your school or via online searches. There are also online programmes and companies that offer a mixture of online and offline support.

Tutoring can be expensive and ranges from £20-50 an hour depending on the tutor and where you live. Tutoring via Skype can be cheaper and starts at around £15 per hour.

When does a child benefit from tutoring?

• • •

If they have lost confidence and tutoring will help them boost their selfbelief.

If they are struggling with a particular subject, and their teacher has flagged it.

If they need to improve their grades to pass an upcoming exam.

How to find the right tutor?

Private Tutors Personal recommendation is always a good place to start. You can also ask at your school as some teachers tutor after school.

If you are hiring a tutor privately, make sure they have a DBS check and have references too. Also, check their qualifications and whether they have taught children in the same age range as yours. Make sure you meet them in person or via Skype and are comfortable your child is happy to work with them.

Rachael Sprague from tutor directory, www. tutorful.co.uk says “The key to finding the perfect tutor is to ask lots of questions!

Don’t just focus on their experience in education (although this is important), but ask about their lives and what makes them tick. This person will potentially be spending a lot of time with your child, so it is important to make sure their personalities are compatible.”

Tutoring Agency This is a good option if you are short on time. An agency should do most of the hard work for you. They should find someone that fits your requirements and complete all the reference and safety checks needed.

Companies like Fleet Tutoring (www.fleettutors.co.uk), have a database of tutors 10 Families East Kent

in your area, from which you can choose.

Will Veness who runs a tutoring agency (www.collegiatetutors.co.uk) says safety is paramount.

“Tuition agencies have a legal obligation to seek background checks from their tutors (called an Enhanced DBS Check).

An Enhanced check searches the tutors’ criminal history for convictions, cautions, warnings, and reprimands, and ensures the tutor isn’t on any barred lists. This is not an essential part of signing up to open-market tutoring sites, as they operate more like a search engine rather than a hands-on agency. This can lead to anyone being able to sign up as a tutor with a simple upload of a CV. Some websites do, however, at least highlight tutors who have received this important check, so parents should certainly keep an eye out for this when browsing tutors with them.”

We believe it is very much worth it to pay the agent’s commission for peace of mind, especially with the primary-age students. Furthermore, rigorous agencies will interview their candidates to ensure they are able to deliver a quality standard of tuition. Local agencies are ideal (if available), as the administrators will know their tutors personally, and talk to the parents directly.”

Tutoring Companies There are various different national, regional and local companies offering tuition, many of which offer a free trial. Here is a selection of local tutors Explore Learning Thanet 01843 606632 Explore Learning Ashford 01233 220 344 www.explorelearning.co.uk First Class Learning Canterbury & Folkestone Canterbury@firstclasslearning.co.uk

folkestone@firstclasslearning.co.uk Kumon Canterbury canterbury@kumoncentre.co.uk 01227 751503 Kumon Broadstairs broadstairs@kumoncentre.co.uk 01843 650843 www.kumon.co.uk Kip McGrath Canterbury canterbury@kipmcgrath.com 01227 504601

Here is a handy checklist of questions to ask a potential tutor 1.

Are they CRB checked?

2. What are their qualifications?

3. Do they have references?

4.

Do they have experience of the National Curriculum or the syllabus your child is working on?

5. Do they have resources that they share with pupils?

6. Are there any additional materials that you need to buy?

7.

Do they have any success stories they could share?

8. When do you get updates on progress and what is the best way to contact them?

9.

Do they have cancellation fees and how much notice do they need to cancel a session?

10. How many lessons do you need to commit to? Most tutors expect a commitment of 4 to 6 weeks as a minimum. familiesonline.co.uk

Outdoor adventure activities to enjoy this summer

The weather is getting warmer and the summer holidays are looming.

Claire Winter takes a look at some cool, outdoor adventure activities to get everyone off their screens and enjoying the great outdoors.

Park Run If you haven’t come across the phenomena that is Park Run you should check out your local options. Volunteers set up 5km races in parks across the UK and there are now 500 locations. They also do shorter runs for kids aged 4 to 14, which are 2km long. We go running as a family about once a month and then have a massive brunch afterward. It’s a great way to exercise together and best of all it’s free! www.parkrun.org.uk.

Coasteering Coasteering is an exhilarating activity that allows you to explore rocks and the sea. It combines rock climbing and scrambling, with jumping and swimming in the water.

Britain has an amazing and varied coastline and many locations that offer coasteering.

You wear a wetsuit and helmet for the activity, and it is suitable for children aged 8+. There is a plethora of coasteering companies in Britain. Locations are in Wales (www.celticquestcoasteering.com), Scotland (www.myadventure.org.uk) Dorset and Cornwall (www.xtremecoasteering.co.uk).

Horseriding on the beach Even for a beginner, there is nothing quite like riding a horse on a beach.

Newquay Riding Stables in Cornwall (www. newquayridingstables.co.uk) offers beautiful scenic beach and coastal rides. You can also ride on the beach with Studland Riding stables in Dorset (www.studlandstables. com).

Navigation skills Never get lost again! Learn basic navigation skills and how to use a compass in the fells.

Lots of outdoor centres also offer beginner, intermediate and advanced navigation courses. www.thelakedistrictwalker.co.uk

Ziplining Adrenaline junkies can experience Europe’s fastest zipline in Wales. The Zip World Penrhyn Quarry in North Wales is also the longest zip wire in the world. There are age and height restrictions, so please check on their website for details. For the velocity zip wire, children need to be aged 10+. www.zipworld.co.uk

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Aqua Parks Outdoor water play parks are popping up all over the UK, and they offer a great way to burn off some steam during the warmer months. You can wear wetsuits and can usually go to a park up until the end of September. Liquid Leisure (www. liquidleisure.com), Europe’s largest Aqua Park based in Datchet, near Windsor, has amazing inflatable play zones, including a floating trampoline and is suitable for children aged 6. There is also a park in Oxford (www.oxfordaquapark.com) and Rutland (www.aquaparkrutland.co.uk).

Rock climbing Take yourself to new heights and learn new skills climbing on real rocks.

Climbing courses are great for building confidence and inner resilience. There are lots of outdoor climbing courses that you can undertake in the Lake or Peak District. www.pureoutdoor.co.uk

Caving If you are feeling really brave, why not try a family caving trip? Not good if you don’t like enclosed spaces, but the kids will love the challenge of exploring underground.

Caving specialist www.gocave.com offers a variety of caving trips for people aged 6 to 60 in a variety of locations around the UK.

Wilderness survival Embrace your inner Ray Mears by trying one of the many bush craft or wilderness survival courses on offer. You can take the whole family on a three-day course in Kent and learn how to make a basic shelter, light fire without matches and cook on an open fire. www.natural-pathways.co.uk.

Canoeing A canoe is perfect for a family adventure afloat. You can canoe on lakes, rivers and the sea and it’s an accessible sport for the whole family. You can share kayaks and double canoes too. Suitable for children aged 8+, this activity is fabulous fun for the whole family. You can find canoeing activities all over the country at www.britishcanoeing.org.uk.

Wild swimming Swimming in hidden lakes, rivers and secret coves is all part of the wild swimming movement. You can check out places to visit at www.wildswimming. co.uk.

Please ensure that you and your family are strong swimmers and stay safe at all times.

Families East Kent 11

WHAT’S ON May & June Your essential guide to family events this May and June. We take great care in compiling our events guide, but check with the venues before you leave home just in case times or prices have changed since we went to print.

To promote your local event, nearly new sale, theatre shows or community event in the next what’s on guide please email editor@familieseastkent.co.uk Throughout May & June Baby Rhymetime Songs, nursery rhymes and fun for all at libraries across the region for 0 - 4 years and all events are free.

Ashford Library Church Road, TN23 1AS Friday’s 10am & 11am Canterbury Library 18 High Street, CT1 2RA Thursday’s 10am & 11am Cliftonville Library Margate, CT9 3JX Friday’s 10am & 11am Dover Library Market Square, CT16 1PH Thursday’s 9.45am Faversham Library Newtown Road, ME13 8DY Tuesday’s 10.30am Herne Bay Library 124 High Street, CT6 5JY Thursday’s 11am Margate Cecil Street, CT9 1RE Monday’s 10am Ramsgate Library CT11 9AY Friday’s 10am Throughout May & June Explorer Trail Westgate Parks, St. Peter’s Street, Canterbury, CT1 2BQ Pick up an Explorer Trails from the Westgate Towers Museum or the Beaney Library and join Julius the roman soldier on a voyage of discovery through the Westgate Parks. £2.50 (including crayons).

Until 20 May The BFG in Pictures - FREE Beany House of Art and Knowledge, Canterbury, CT1 2RA The BFG in Pictures is an exhibition of original Quentin Blake ilustrations, prepared for Roald Dahl’s classic story.

Throughout May & June Triumphant Women Smallhythe Place Tenterden, TN30 7NG Exploring women’s history and suffrage through the anniversary of women gaining the vote. The new exhibition Triumphant Women will be on display at Smallhythe Place celebrating the women of Smallhythe in the Suffrage movement, Normal admission applies. 11am - 5pm.

Every Wednesday (term time only) Antenatal & Baby Yoga Sessions Baypoint Sports Club Sandwich CT13 9QL Antenatal, postnatal and adult and baby yoga classes run every Wednesday morning during term time from 11.30am with Sue Ellis.

Booking required. Call 01304 613022.

Every Saturday (term time only) Saturday Mornings Art Club Espression Interactive Arts Café Canterbury, CT1 2DZ A creative arts club for primary aged children 5-11 year olds, to try out different art and craft techniques, learn new skills and make new friends. Booking required. Call 01227 765665.

10am - 12noon.

26 May - 3 June Edwardian Life Hever Castle & Gardens, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG During May half term at Hever Castle you can meet costumed characters from the Edwardian era and play traditional games of the period. Prizes for the best dressed Edwardian boy and girl each day.

Visitors can enjoy a traditional Punch and Judy show with a Tudor twist (look out for Henry VIII and his six wives!) as well as try their hand at games from the period including a coconut shy* (*small additional charge), tin-can alley and bean bag race or enjoy a leisurely game of croquet on the lawn.

Learn about the study and collection of butterflies and moths from our colourful resident lepidopterist. Meet costumed characters from the era as you explore the award-winning gardens, and look out for visitors arriving in full Edwardian dress with prizes for the best dressed boy and girl each day.

Children can play traditional Edwardian games in the Castle or explore the rooms to learn about the history of the time. www.hevercastle.co.uk Every Sunday Junior Park Run Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF A free 2k junior park run takes place every Sunday at 9am and is suitable for ages 4 - 14 years. Preregister at www.parkrun.org.uk Every Sunday Betteshanger Bikers Betteshanger Park Deal, CT14 0BF Join Betteshanger Bikers, our weekly cycle club for young mountain bikers. Get expert coaching, learn awesome cycling skills and take part in fun and exciting games from our British Cycling qualified coaches, all within our traffic-free 250-acre Park. 10–11.30am, ages 8 – 14.

4 May Star Wars Drive in Cinema Night Baypoint Sports Club Sandwich CT13 9QL

10-17 august 2018

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5 - 7 May May Day Festival Hever Castle & Gardens, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG The May Day Festival has a host of customs and activities for all the family to enjoy.

6 May Ashford Farmers Market Lower High Street, Ashford Shoppers can grab tea, coffee, cake or breakfast from one of the many street-food stalls, or pick up a diverse selection of tasty treats from local traders. The market will have different seasonal themes throughout the year, street food and live music. 10am- 2pm.

6 - 7 May Pet a Lamb Day Mount Ephraim Gardens Faversham, ME13 9TX The spring lambs will be out so come along and meet them. Plus, enjoy a Spring Lamb Trail and seek out lambs hidden in the gardens. 11am - 5pm.

10 - 13 May Forrest Family Fun Day Victoria Park Deal, CT14 9AH With rides and attractions it’s great fun for the whole family.

12 May Keepy Uppy The Marlowe Theatre Canterbury, CT1 2AS A play for the 2018 World Cup year, for football fans and nonfootball fans. Joey absolutely loves familiesonline.co.uk

football. Playing it, watching it, talking about it. He gets it from his mum – a footy fanatic! £10.25.

11am & 3pm. Ages 3+.

13 & 27 May Learn to Ride Betteshanger Park Deal, CT14 0BF Aimed at children aged 5 -12 years, ‘Learn to Ride’ sessions are perfect for those who have never ridden a bike before or who are ready to move on from stabilisers or those looking to build confidence. British Cycling qualified coaches will teach the basics of balancing, pedalling and confidence on the bike. 12noon 1pm. £14.

19 May Kids Baking Morning Chequers Kitchen Cookery School, Deal, CT14 6RG It’s a great morning, packed with skill and technique with a delicious end-product! All preparation will be done by hand, teaching young people traditional baking skills while they have fun in the process. 10am - 12 noon. Ages 8 - 15 years.

19 May Open Day Hadlow College Canterbury Campus, CT1 1TB Let your future career grow when you choose to study at Hadlow College. Speak to our tutors about life as a land-based student. 10am - 3pm.

19 May Mum2Mum Market Canterbury St John’s Church of England Primary School Canterbury CT1 1BD Must see indoor nearly new sale. Market features everything maternity, baby and kids to age 6 including designer prams, cots, bouncers, nappy bins, sterilisers, baby mobiles, toys, clothes, books. £2, kids free. 2-4-1 entry available online or via Facebook/ mum2mummarketKent. 9:30 11:30am 19 & 20 May Sandwich Food Festival Town Centre, Sandwich More than 50 home-grown and international food stalls will fill the streets in Sandwich Town centre.

26 - 28 May Grand Medieval Joust Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL

19 & 20 May 1940’s Weekend Kent & East Sussex Railway Tenterden, TN30 6HE We’re turning back the clock to the 1940s for a not-to-be missed weekend of pure nostalgia!

So much to see and enjoy along the line the whole weekend including live music, dancing, vehicles, fashion and more.

20 May Children are Stinky Theatre Royal Margate Margate, CT9 1PW Fresh from Edinburgh Fringe with five stars and The Children’s Choice award, Children are Stinky is an exciting new comedy by

Medieval Jousting returns to Leeds Castle with mighty clashes and thrilling entertainment for all ages at the Grand Medieval Joust. See the squires arm the knights in full plate armour before witnessing four knightly warriors demonstrate Mounted Skill-at-Arms ahead of an authentic jousting competition. Gather around the Combat Arena for exciting entertainment with combat, archery and firepower displays throughout the day and a chance to witness the mighty medieval trebuchet shooting into the moat. Normal admission applies. www.leeds-castle.com Circus Trick Tease. High calibre circus, a rocking soundtrack, and genuine belly laughs have propelled these stinkers onto soldout shows every single season.

Suitable for ages 3-12, 3pm.

26 - 27 May Open Gardens Weekend Canterbury Cathedral The Precincts, CT1 2EH The Cathedral opens their private gardens in the Precincts for visitors to enjoy and support the National Garden Scheme (NGS) and charities.

26 - 27 May Beasts Roadshow Penshurst Place & Gardens Tonbridge, TN11 8DG Get ready for squirming, scaly, and sometimes squealing reptiles, mammals and insects as we welcome the Hawking Centre and their Beasts Roadshow, giving you the opportunity to learn all about their peculiar pets! 11am - 5pm.

26 - 28 May The Beast at Betteshanger Park Betteshanger Park Deal, CT14 0BF The world’s largest inflatable obstacle course, known at The Beast, will be returning to Betteshanger Park. The formidable inflatable obstacle course will be a world-first, 384m long course – making it over 100 metres longer and a length that has never before been attempted.

27 & 28 May Family fun Days East Kent Railway Trust Shepherdswell, Dover, CT15 7PD Take a journey back in time along the historic East Kent Railway for a Family Fun Day. 28 May Alice in Wonderland The Marlowe Theatre Canterbury, CT1 2AS Let’s All Dance returns with this fabulous family favourite. Stunning dancing, much loved characters and super costumes bring the famous tale to life in this magical ballet production. Ages 2 - 11 years. £10.25. 11.30am, 1.30pm & 3.30pm.

29 May Family Discovery Day Dungeness Day Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway, New Romney, TN28 8PL 9am - 4.30pm. £10 adults, £5 children. Pre book only.

Families East Kent 13

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26 - 28 May WWII Weekend Dover Castle Dover, CT16 1HU The castle’s renowned wartime event returns with more action than ever before! Witness an explosive battle, military encampments, talks, displays and live music. Immerse yourself in the spirit and explosive action of the 1940s. 10am 5pm.

05/04/2018 16:37

Half term fun this May at Dreamland Margate CT9 1XJ

explorers investigate many of the beautiful and extraordinary places and objects within the Cathedral.

11 - 4pm.

There’s a festival of fun at Dreamland this half term. Gorilla Circus are taking up residence at Dreamland throughout the Spring and Summer. See their daring aerial stunts daily during half term and selected weekends throughout May and June.

30 May - 1 June Half Term: Stone Week Canterbury Cathedral The Precincts, CT1 2EH Have a go at stone carving with Canterbury Cathedral’s stonemason apprentices at this free drop-in activity. Discover and use some of the traditional techniques and tools from medieval times still used by stonemasons today. 11am - 3pm.

Check out The Flying Bazazi Brothers who will bring their riotous double act to Dreamland in May. Don’t miss them dance, juggle and fall over each other for your viewing pleasure! Pirate Radio is back with Chui manning the (DJ) decks and getting every landlubber moving.

Buy discounted wristbands online in advance or buy a Day Dreamer entry ticket - just £5 which is redeemable against a single ride of your choice or the daily food and drink offer.

With rides, roller skating, soft play and Dreamland Ark open every day, there’s no better place to be this Spring.

Visit www.dreamland.co.uk for full details and opening times.

29 May Beastie Day Brogdale Farm Faversham, ME13 8XZ Explore Brogdale and discover fantastic bugs and mini beasts.

Book your Live Bug Show and spend the whole day exploring the orchards, discovering bugs and have lots of fun. 10am - 3pm.

29 May - 1 June Half Term Activities Maidstone Museum Maidstone, ME14 1LH Enjoy a week of creative workshops with a cartoon/comic theme this half term! Ages 4 – 11 years. Sessions at 10.30 am, 11.30am and 1pm.

30 May Junior Zoo Keeper Experience Wildwood Trust, Herne Bay, CT6 7LQ Find out exactly what it’s like to look after wild animals with our Junior Zoo Keeper Experiences.

Aimed at children with a keen interest in becoming a zoo keeper or working with animals later in life. £50 per child. 7–11 years. 10am - 12 noon. Booking required.

30 May - 1 June Half Term: Explorer Backpacks Canterbury Cathedral The Precincts, CT1 2EH The Explorer Backpacks provide a fun and interactive trail as well as helpful tools for all to enjoy. Inside the backpacks are binoculars, magnifying glasses and magnetic compasses – all to help young

Explore the great outdoors this summer at Betteshanger Park Deal, CT14 0BF Betteshanger Park, near Deal, guarantees an energising and enjoyable day out for all the family.

The Park, built on the spoil heap of the former Betteshanger Colliery, offers outstanding leisure and recreational facilities; miles of traffic-free cycling, muddy mountain bike trails; plus woodland, grassland and marshland to explore. There’s a programme of lively outdoor activities, including archery, geocaching, fossil hunting and a military-style obstacle course.

The calendar is packed with a wide range of seasonal events. Not to be missed during May and June are ‘Best of Betteshanger’ – your chance to get stuck in to some of Betteshanger’s activities over the bank holiday weekend (5 – 7 May). ‘The Beast’ – at over 360m, The Beast is the world’s largest inflatable obstacle course (26 – 28 May) and Open Air Cinema screening of Golden Globe award winning musical, The Greatest Showman (2 June). Pre booking for all events is advised.

Find out more at www.betteshanger-park.co.uk

14 Families East Kent

30 May - 3 June Awful Auntie The Marlowe Theatre Canterbury, CT1 2AS David Walliams’ amazing tale, live on stage! From the awardwinning producers of Gangsta Granny comes the world premiere of David Walliams’ tale of frights, fights and friendship, featuring a very large owl, a very small ghost and a very awful Auntie! Ages 5+ 31 May Family Days - Animals Dover Museum Dover, CT16 1PH Family days at Dover Museum are fun for children of all ages. All children must be accompanied by an adult during the activity. 10am - 3.30pm.

2 - 3 June Leas Village Fete Folkestone CT20 2DR A traditional event which includes arena displays, children’s fairground rides, demonstrations, side-shows, competitions, food and craft & gift stalls. Filled with fun it will be an event for all the family, with plenty to see. 10am 5pm.

9 June All Day Family Cinema Quex Park Birchington, CT7 0BH Family all day open air Cinema with films for everyone throughout the day on a massive diamond screen within the grounds of Quex Park Estate. Bring a picnic, friends, family, the dog and enjoy a day of films for all the family.

9 June Kids Baking Morning Chequers Kitchen Cookery School, Deal, CT14 6RG Wanting to get creative in the kitchen? Teaching young people traditional baking skills while they have fun in the process.

Ages 8 - 15 years. 10am - 12 noon.

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ONLINE familiesonline.co.uk

10 & 24 June Learn to Ride Betteshanger Park Deal, CT14 0BF Aimed at children aged 5 -12 years. Learn to Ride sessions are perfect for those who have never ridden a bike before, those who are ready to move on from stabilisers or those looking to build confidence. 12noon-1pm. £14.

10 June Strawberry Fair Brogdale Farm Faversham, ME13 8XZ Celebrate some of the first fruits of the season at Brogdale with entertainment, music, local producers and some delicious local strawberries at a real English Country Fair.

16 June Family Bushcraft Day Belmont House Faversham, ME13 0HH Spend quality time together learning new skills and enjoying a summers day in the woods. The day includes learning different ways to create a flame, shelter building, campfire cooking, nature walks, plant identification and more. 10am - 4pm. Ages 7+. Call 01795 890 228 to book.

16 June Cartoon Workshop Maidstone Museum Maidstone, ME14 1LH These workshops introduce his internationally renowned book series, Julius Zebra, and are full of drawing tips for budding young cartoonists from one of Britain’s leading illustrators. And you’ll learn lots of Roman and Egyptian facts along the way! Morning workshop 10 30am - 12.30pm for 7 - 11 years and afternoon workshop 1.30 - 3.30pm for 11 - 15 years.

16 & 17 June Father’s Day Weekend Hever Castle & Gardens, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Say thank you to dad this Father’s Day with a memorable day out and meal. There will be classic cars on display and children can make a car themed keyring in a free craft workshop.

16 & 17 June Weekend for Dad Penshurst Place & Gardens Tonbridge, TN11 8DG Treat Dad to a musical performance unlike any other this Father’s Day, as we invite the hugely entertaining Junk Orchestra to play a tune or two on their musical junk-struments!

10.30am - 6pm.

17 June Classic Car Rally Rare Breeds Centre Ashford, TN26 3RJ Featuring a range of vehicles, from beautiful Aston Martins, and much loved Morgan’s, to motorbikes, magnificent and historic steam engines and perhaps a tractor familiesonline.co.uk

or two! There’s something to entertain all the family too, including stalls, a falconry display and our famous pig racing, which always draws an enthusiastic crowd and the kids will love meeting our friendly farm animals in The Children’s Barn and around the farm. £7.50 per person.

23 June Junior Aquathlon Leeds Castle Maidstone, ME17 1PL Leeds Castle will again host the Junior Aquathlon for children aged from 8 to 14 years old. The categories will be TriStart (8yrs), TriStar 1 (9-10yrs), TriStar 2 (1112yrs) and TriStar3 (13-14yrs).

The swim will take place in the beautiful moat surrounding this iconic Castle and the run will be across the stunning estate.

For each child registered an accompanying adult can spectate the race for free and also enjoy the Castle, grounds and attractions for the whole day.

23 June A Midsummer Nights Feast Market Place, Faversham Over 20 food & drink stalls, face painting, juggling, crafts from Grafts, plants from Copton Ash and music from The Dooberrys, Salvation Jayne and Andy Mack.

6.30-10pm. Free.

23 & 24 June Hever’s Home Front Hever Castle & Gardens, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Discover what life and work was like during the Second World War in our Hever’s Home Front event.

Visit the tea dance tent, explore vintage stalls and learn to swingdance. Come in 1940s dress and round the day off with a traditional afternoon tea.

23 & 24 June Meeting Paddington Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway, New Romney, TN28 8PL Come and meet Paddington at intervals on each day. Prebooked special train tickets guarantee a seat on a VIP departure from Hythe to New Romney Station to see Paddington.

26 June - 1 July Hever in Bloom Hever Castle & Gardens, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG During Hever in Bloom experience the quintessential English Rose Garden at the height of its summer beauty with guided tours of the award-winning Gardens.

30 June & 1 July Summer Festival Spa Valley Railway Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5QY A gathering of steam on the road and rails, vintage vehicles and a whole lot of fun for all the family. Hosting a wide variety of

10 - 17 August Broadstairs Folk Week Broadstairs, CT10 1JX Broadstairs Folk Week is a traditional folk music and dance festival. Over the past 53 years, the festival has become a magnet for people who love authentic music, an opportunity to dance and sing and meet up.

Enjoy artists such as Sharon Shannon Band, Blowzabella, Gigspanner Big Band, Kiki Dee, Tim Edey, Police Dog Hogan, Matthews’ Southern Comfort Jim Causley Trio and many more.

There will also be concerts, Ceilidhs, workshops, dances, children’s festival, crafts and a music fair, plus festival campsite, Morris Dancers and pub Sessions. Festival Tickets are available now with or without camping for a week, weekend or day. Call 01843 604080 for ticket Sales and information or visit www.broadstairsfolkweek.org.uk family games, attractions, and entertainment; this year will see a large collection of Road Steam & vintage vehicles, an intensive two-train service, live entertainment shows, Driver for a Fiver experiences, and a selection of Real Ales & Ciders alongside our BBQ. 30 June & 1 July Wealden Literary Festival Boldshaves Garden Woodchurch, TN26 3R Set in the beautiful Boldshaves Garden near Tenterden in the Weald of Kent and the fields and

wild woods that surround the gardens, Wealden Literary Festival brings together renowned authors, poets, artists and makers who look first and foremost to nature, wilderness and the spirit of place for inspiration.

Would you like to feature your events here?

Email the details to editor@familieseastkent.co.uk by 2 June to be included in our July/August bumper summer issue

WIN an Annual Family Membership to Dreamland Margate for up to 5 People-worth £190!

The oldest surviving amusement park in the UK, Dreamland Margate is a world-class visitor attraction that offers all the fun of the festival for everyone to enjoy. Located opposite the golden sands of Margate, Dreamland boasts: ✸ vintage, family and thrill rides ✸ pop-up entertainment ✸ live music and art installations ✸ a vintage arcade and street food An Annual Family Membership entitles you to visit as many times as you wish throughout the summer holidays and all year round!

For more information and membership benefits, visit www.dreamland.co.uk/membership TO ENTER

Email your answers to the following questions to info@familiesmagazine.co.uk no later than 23 June 2018: Terms & Conditions: • Please note that height restrictions apply on all rides and we cannot guarantee that all rides will be in operation on the date of your visit.

• Events are subject to availability and operated on first come first served basis.

• Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 and over

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✸ Tell us in 50 words (or more) why you find Families magazine a useful tool for family life?

New for Summer 2018: daily aerial circus act + new, exciting family friendly rides

✸ How likely are you to respond to a piece of advertising you see in Families? a Very likely b Possibly c Unlikely

Runner-Up Best Family Theme Park 2017 Family Traveller Awards

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Families East Kent 15

Families East Kent

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