Families Manchester Issue 55 Jan-Feb 2016

Edition 55 • Jan/Feb 2016

The local magazine for families with children 0-12 years www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

MANCHESTER

@FamiliesManch facebook.com/familiesmanchester

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In this issue > Intolerances and allergies - annoying or deadly? > Teaching your child to love reading alone Covering: Altrincham, Trafford, Salford, Manchester, Bolton, Bury, Rochdale, Didsbury, Stockport, Cheadle, Bramhall, and surrounding areas.

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Education In this issue 02: Education 07: Parties

Inspiring tuition – free trial session!

08: News 10: Clubs & classes 12: Parents’ place 14: What’s on

Hello!

Rather than start off the New Year with resolutions that we never stick to, this year we’re looking back at the previous 12 months and feeling incredibly grateful for all we have.

Not only do we have 5 healthy children between us, we also still have our parents, siblings and a lot of extended family spread out around the country and indeed, the globe. And yes it’s been an exhilarating (and at times terrifying) rollercoaster ride, but overall it’s been great.

However 2015 for us has also highlighted the plight of many others not so fortunate. Our wish for 2016 is that you are all given the strength you need to deal with whatever life throws at you – and that at the end of this year, you too can look back with gratitude.

Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition for 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities.

Walk on the wild side

Till next time Caryl Hall

Jayne Keep

Next issue: Mar/Apr 2016

Print: Bishops Printers, Walton Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO6 1TR Tel: 023 9233 4900 www.bishops.co.uk

Circulation: 25,000 copies of Families Manchester are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected shops and other points throughout Greater Manchester.

If you would like free copies for your organisation, please let us know.

Families Manchester 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 Contact details: Families Manchester, Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta 3 Hall Hill, Bollington SK10 5ED Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The Tel: 01625 801 801 www.familiesmanchester.co.uk contents of Families Manchester are fully protected by Editorial: editor@familiesmanchester.co.uk copyright and none of the editorial or photographic Advertising/artwork: advertising@familiesmanchester.co.uk matter may be reproduced in any form without prior Events, diary dates, what’s on: events@familiesmanchester.co.uk consent of the publisher.

We take every care preparing the magazine, but the Cover photography: Little Toad Photography, Marple publishers and distributors can’t be held responsible 07941 567062 / www.littletoadphography.com for the claims of advertisers, the accuracy of the Design: Paul Wilson Graphic Design, Congleton. contents nor for any consequences.

Tel: 07743 111 694 www.withpaul.co.uk @FamiliesManch www.facebook.com/familiesmanchester

The centres across Manchester are open 7 days a week, meaning Explore can fit into busy family life.

As Explore members, children work with tutors who are great educational role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. Each child has an individualised learning programme, and all Explore courses map to the National Curriculum in England and the Curriculum for Excellence in Scotland.

Find out how your child can benefit from Explore Learning membership today. Book your free trial at www.explorelearning.co.uk.

Lion Learners Educational Experiences offer exciting educational animal experiences visiting nurseries, primary schools, out of school clubs and libraries.

Children are given the chance to meet a selection of fascinating animals which originate from different continents and habitats and get an insight into how they have adapted so brilliantly to living in the wild.

These sessions aim to open children’s

eyes to the wonders of nature, help conquer irrational fears, give an insight into the adaptations of certain creatures, and hit relevant National Curriculum targets in an exciting and enjoyable way.

Sessions are tailored to suit various topics such as habitats, minibeasts, nocturnal animals, life cycles and rainforests!

For further information or to book a session please contact Alex and her animals (including Bearded dragon, Giant African millipede, snake, tarantula, guinea pigs, rabbits, snails and scorpion!!).

07940 554 245 / alex@lionlearners.co.uk / www.lionlearners.co.uk

Special Educational Needs

We all worry when our child is having trouble keeping up with his or her peer group. But what happens if you suspect that it’s not that your child is just a little slower at grasping a concept – but actually needs some specialist help?

Special Educational Needs, or SEN, is a legal term that the Government and schools use to describe the kind of child who has

some form of problem or disability that makes learning harder for them than their friends. It means that they have assessed your child and have been able to pinpoint what it is (or as nearly as they can) that makes it so very hard for your child to keep up.

This could be Dyslexia, Discalcula, English as a second language, Concentration levels (such as ADHD), Ability to socialise (including Autism spectrum), Speech or hearing problems or a range of other problems or disabilities.

First, how do you get to this point?

Parents, though sometimes reluctant to ‘label’ their child with what they may see as a disability, sometimes have a worrying

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time when they think their child is struggling, but don’t mention it at the school. They may try to teach their child at home or go to a tutor. The truth is that the SEN coordinator (SENCO) at the school really is your best friend here. They will help you to get your child the diagnosis they need to get more help. And when the education system places so much emphasis on passing exams and gaining points, any help you can get is to be welcomed.

Of course it’s not always that simple.

Stretched schools with pupils from diverse backgrounds have a lot of pulls on their time and resources and it may be hard getting to the point where you can have

your child assessed and a ‘statement of special educational needs’ applied. It’s important that you approach the school with your worries and your ideas of how your child could be helped and to keep asking questions – what help is there, when can it be given, is there anything else we can do at home to help, and so on. Sometimes some extra tuition is all that is required but if your child is tested and is given a statement, this translates to extra help in classes – and most importantly, extra time in exams, sometimes as much as 50% extra. And that can mean the difference for your child between a pass and a fail.

Education Great maths teaching “will take a decade”

The Advisory Council on Mathematics Education (ACME) has released a report that says that it will take at least ten years before maths teachers are qualified as well as they should be. They recommend that maths teachers need better training and higher qualifications. This would include primary schools, where many teachers have not studied maths since they took their GCSEs and yet teach maths to their classes.

The report’s author wants all primary teachers to have a maths A level or continue to study maths up to the

age of 18 and they want more maths graduates to teach the subject at secondary level. If there are not enough available, then they suggest that graduates with a related subject such as economics could be encouraged to become maths teachers.

The report’s author, Robert Barbour says: “We are not at the bottom,” but says that maths teaching should “aspire to level with the best.” The report compared teaching in the UK with that in Shanghai, Singapore, Massachusetts and Germany, where some of the most successful educational systems are based.

However the general secretary of the National Union of Teachers, Russell Hobby, says that schools should be recruiting now and that ten years is too long to wait.

“The children in the system today won’t see the benefits before they leave school. The effectiveness of recruitment needs to be addressed immediately. For the teachers there in the system today, it’s vital that they have access to proper professional development to increase their experience,” he said.

The Department for Education has removed caps on funding to ensure that teacher trainees who have at least a 2:2 degree can earn £25,000 and the Department has pledged up to £67 million to increase the maths ability of 15,000 teachers currently working in schools. It will also recruit an additional 2,500 maths and physics specialists in this parliament.

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Education Dyslexia Screening

Are you worried that your Year 1 or 2 child may have Dyslexia? Impact Tuition Centre in Urmston offers dyslexia and visual stress (Meares-Irlen Syndrome) screening and is now able to offer an Early Years Dyslexia Screening test aimed at children aged 5-7 years.

Impact Tuition finds that although many parents of children younger than 7 believe their child is “I have always loved books and enjoyed reading, already showing signs of something which I wanted to pass on to my dyslexia, many schools son. However, he didn’t appear to like books, prefer to wait until pupils unless I was reading to him. Then we discovered are 7 before carrying out he had dyslexia. We tried to help him as much any assessments. While as possible and get him support at school, but understandable, this can reading remained an unenjoyable experience for be frustrating for parents, him. I heard about Cellfield and how it helped particularly if there is a children with dyslexia overcome their difficulties strong family history of with reading. So after discussion with my son he reading difficulties. The started on the program. Each time he was tested he Early Years screening improved - he is now on his sixth reading book (age analyses a range of appropriate for the first time)!! He even reads before different reading and going to bed instead of wanting to be on the Xbox. pre-reading behaviours How absolutely fantastic is that?! I would definitely and will identify the risk recommend Cellfield.” of a child of having dyslexia.

Ellie D, December 2015 Robert (now aged 15) was diagnosed with dyslexia in primary school and despite many While Dyslexia screenings are not a interventions to help with his literacy diagnosis, they give a reliable indication, difficulties, he was still finding his via an At Risk Quotient, of the likelihood of English GCSE studies a struggle. His an individual having dyslexia by analysing mum, Ellie, decided to go ahead with specific learning behaviours and Cellfield (a unique intervention attainments and comparing them against a programme based on neurological core sample. research) to give him a boost for his

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final year at school. Robert really enjoyed the programme and has made very significant improvements in his reading. He is finding English at school much more manageable now and has noticed a real difference in his ability to write for longer periods.

Cellfield achieves quick and sustainable results – average gains of 2 years in reading age can be achieved after just two weeks and the gains continue over time. It works for both adults and children. For more information on the programme, go to www.cellfielduk.com. Or call Kelly Barrett at Impact Tuition Centre in Urmston on 0161 747 1819. www.impacttuitionurmston.co.uk/ dyslexia “Before Cellfield I found it hard to read and had no interest in it. I thought it was it was weird to enjoy a book but after doing Cellfield it has opened up a new world to me. I enjoy reading, find it fun. Do it in my spare time for once. I’ve read 5 books. I would never have done that before. I thought books were poison but I really enjoy them now.”

Robert D age 15, November 2015

Education

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Education Teaching your child to love reading alone

By Justine Crow 9. Don’t push them to read at bedtime when eyes and minds may be tired.

Offer to finish a chapter aloud for them instead. It will keep them wanting more.

And if they turn the light back on after you’ve closed the door to continue the adventure, is it really such a crime?

10. Don’t force them, ever. Reverse psychology is a wonderful device.

We all have that exquisite oft-repeated childhood memory, don’t we? Nose in a book, legs dangling, miles from those meddling adults – metaphorically at any rate – so why is it so impossible for our own children to achieve literary independence, that feeling of wanting neither the chapter nor the afternoon to end? Instead, when your child announces that they are bored and you suggest they read a book, their sceptical facial expression says it all. But it is hardly surprising that there’s a difference in our experience – we grew up without mobile phones, tablets, X-Boxes, YouTube, or the lure of Minecraft. It was even customary then to have the telly rationed. Now, it would be a miracle if they could concentrate long enough to watch a whole CBBC programme undisturbed. Here are my top ten tips for ensuring the book is as much of a distraction as its digital competition.

1. Start them young. Board books, cloth books, lift the tab. Show them how it works and then let them do it themselves. Don’t be precious. Let them bite and chew and tear. Keep the delicate pop-ups out of reach.

2. Encourage growing babes to turn the pages themselves. Not only will they get an idea of how a book functions very quickly, it will also help develop the fine motor skills that are essential for learning.

3. When choosing books for toddlers, consider their complexity.

Hardbacks are desirable but they are heavy for little hands. With siblings around, especially newborns, have a box of books the first child can escape to. Tell them it is theirs and nobody else’s. They can choose to share with the new baby or enjoy by themselves.

4. When they are tiddlers, keep tablets and phones solely for games – preferably educational ones.

Small children need the magic of a physical book to encourage their love of reading. As they grow older, e-readers have their place, such as on long journeys but don’t forget, not only do children spend a lot of leisure time online, their schools increasingly use technology in the classroom. For them, screens are the norm, not a refuge.

5. The switch from picture books to chapters is an exciting rite of passage. Now that they can actually read words, celebrate by going to the library or bookshop and allowing them to choose stories to try. It’s okay for them to discover they don’t like something they’ve picked out - they will find their preference in time. Don’t put them off ‘big’ books - most modern kids manage to get through the Harry Potters without a problem. The arcane language of

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many children’s classics is tough to make sense of, even for a seasoned adult reader but let them have a go.

6. Get them to make a bookmark and feel proud of how many pages they clock up without interruption.

7. Tintin is the perfect type of leave-alone-reading. Just because graphic novels are illustrated doesn’t mean they lack in quality; just listen to the giggles when they get an Asterix book to themselves. Many favourite authors are available in accessible comic book form, especially the classics. Short story anthologies are less daunting and juicy fact books are often hard to put down.

8. Lead by example – if your children see you gaining pleasure from the simple act of finding a corner and a book to retreat with, even for a mere five minutes, they will follow. Inevitably into the same corner as you!

A child can’t have too much to read and it is never too early to get them interested, so allow them to engage with the concept of picture books, not only as something to share but also as an object of comfort and ownership. Books are different from any other form of entertainment; they can be bitten, dropped and bashed but they require a physical and intellectual participation that will be carried through a whole life of learning.

Keep screens for the mundane, for emergencies and homework, as it is pretty hard to ‘love’ an e-reader, to ‘treasure’ a download – how can a beloved library be built out of something that cannot be ‘seen?’ And you can enhance the magic by taking the family to choose stories themselves – but don’t limit them; novels, comics, non-fiction, these all count as reading and encourage them to feel proud of how much they achieve themselves. In the meantime, if you show your children how much you appreciate the luxury of reading alone, they will emulate you.

Leave them to it but accept that kids love a bedtime story whatever their age – I know a woman who still reads to her teenagers.

As an adult, there is nothing quite like the sheer heavenliness of being left in private with something thrilling and absorbing. Get it right and they’ll long for that sensation all their lives. However, nagging your offspring to read will have the opposite effect – this is one of the proven laws of parenting, after all. Now do you mind? I’ve got a chapter to finish…

Justine Crow is the author of The Little Book of Nits published by Bloomsbury.

Parent of three, she co-owns her own bookshop, The Bookseller Crow on Hill, and is a qualified swimming teacher.

And in what little spare time she has, she also runs gastronomic writing retreat courses in France and is the food critic of The Transmitter.

Parties VENUES

Anchors Away, Stockport Party Kids or Private Hire parties. 0161 432 4020 / www.anchorsaway.org.uk Anchor’s Away Play, Wythenshawe Food & Play, Toddler or VIP party options available.

0161 437 0665/ www.anchorsawayplay.com Antz in your Pantz, Timperley Laser, Go-kart, Roller Skating, Craft or traditional party options.

0161 962 2266 / www.antzinyourpantz.co.uk Bean & Brush, Sale A Family Art Café offering hosted art or craft parties, including a party buffet, 7 days a week. 0161 973 2140 / www.beanandbrush.co.uk Blush Dance, Stockport Kids Aerial Circus Parties - a unique and fun party theme for kids aged 5 to 16. The group will learn how to perform tricks and skills straight from Cirque Du Soleil.

Parties for up to 24 children held on Saturday afternoons (from 12.30pm) all day Sunday, and Mon – Fri from 10am – 6pm. 07966 794256 / www.blushdance.com

Boomerang, Bury Multi-sensory play centre with exclusive use option available.

0161 764 4842 / www.boomerangcentre.co.uk Blue Room Studios, Bury Record your favourite songs in a professional recording studio, have the performance mixed, mastered and put onto CD. 08712 453 423 / www.blueroomstudios.co.uk Brooklyn Pottery, Stockport Pottery painting parties for all ages. 0161 480 5139 / www.brooklynpottery.co.uk Brookside Pottery, Poynton The Potter’s Wheel experience offers pottery painting and a train ride on the miniature railway. You supply the food, they supply the rest. 07946 637 499 / www.brooksidepottery.com Chill Factore, Trafford Park Can you imagine a fun-packed party surrounded by real snow?

A range of different parties suitable from age 2 to adults! For more details visit www.chillfactore.com Curly Whirleez, Bolton Tots (under 5), Simply Play or Sporty Parties. Exclusive venue use available. 01204 523 620 / www.curlywhirleez.co.uk East Lancashire Railway All Aboard the Party Express! Pick and mix your party experience from a range of options – Room Hire, decorations, craft activities, lunch bag and train ride. 0161 764 7790 / www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk Funtastic, Radcliffe, Bury Variety of party packages for all budgets, including exclusive venue use. 0161 425 8248 / www.funtastic.org.uk Funtime Kids, Cheadle Indoor soft play centre for children up to age 12. Parties for min 12, max 30 children. 0161 376 5035 / www.facebook.com/FuntimeKidsCheadle Go Wild, Bury Play, Pamper, make cupcakes/pancakes parties,with face painting, balloon modelling, exlusive venue use and other extras available. 0161 764 8268 / www.gowildbury.co.uk Head over Heels, Chorlton & Handforth Bronze, silver or gold party options Chorlton: 0161 881 4433 Handforth: 0161 485 2200 www.headoverheelsplay.co.uk Jungle Mayhem, Radcliffe Jungle, Glitter Girls, Football, Go Kart, Disco and Tots party options as well as exclusive venue hire. 0161 724 7402 / www.junglemayhem.co.uk Jump Nation, Trafford Park Europe’s largest indoor trampoline area. Unique parties for every occasion - food and drinks included.

0161 710 2360 / www.jumpnation.com Kids Go Karting, Stockport Go karting in a safe environment on a purpose built track for ages 3 – 10. Exclusive use of venue during the party. 07544 424 212 / www.kidsgokarting.uk.com

Land of Play, Trafford Park Toddlers (under 4s), Tradtional or Exclusive Hire party options.

0161 872 9434 / www.landofplay.co.uk Legoland Discovery Centre, Manchester Full use of all activities as well as a private party room, food and cake. 0844 844 8181 / www.legolanddiscoverycentre.co.uk Let’s Party, Bury Themed party venue that will do everything for you. All you need is a cake and party bags (although they can do these too). 3 rooms suitable for different ages (3 – 16 years). 0161 797 1111 / www.letspartyvenue.co.uk Little Big Heads, Wilmslow Fairy Tea Party, Belle of the Ball, Princess&Pirates or Disco Diva options hosted by friendly staff. Party bags and a special gift for the bitrhday girl.

01625 548326 / www.littlebigheads.co.uk Minikin Emporium, Sale Paint a pot and Decopatch parties including pizza making and food at VAO Waterside. 08000 155 122 / www.minikindesigns.com Mischief Makers, Rochdale Public or private party options, with Deluxe party bags, face painting, helium balloons and party games available for small extra charge. 01706 653 656 / www.mischiefmakersltd.co.uk Oulder Hill Leisure Complex Pool Inflatable, Small Pool or Sports Hall Party packages available. 01706 716680 / www.ohlc.co.uk Parsley Pie, Hale, Whitefield & Stockport Creative, fun parties for boys and girls of all ages. Tons of different party activities & projects to choose from. www.parsleypie.com Planet Play, Heywood, Rochdale Standard, Deluxe, Super Deluxe or Girl Galaxy party options.

01706 627 627 / www.planetplay.net Queen’s Park Cafe, Rochdale Parties with an outdoor treasure hunt or indoor crafts, food and games. 07984 140521 / www.queensparkcafe.com Run of the Mill, Stockport Private hire available from 5 – 7pm, with various entertainment options.

0161 494 7137 / www.runofthemill.co.uk Playfactore, Trafford A choice of parties in ahuge indoor playcentre with a personal party host and contemporary party rooms.

0844 824 6030 / www.playfactore.com Richmond Hall Kids Adventure Play Centre, Rochdale. Indoor play, with separate party room and catering available.

01706 633331 / www.richmond-hall.co.uk Ringways Restaurant, Manchester Airport Cater from the main or children’s menus, or pr-order a party platter. Table decorated with balloons and party banner. Free outdoor play area and free entry on board an Avro RJX aircraft.

0161 489 8300 / www.ringwaysrestaurant.co.uk Smithills Open Farm, Bolton Cuddle the animals in pets corner, donkey rides, tractor and trailer rides, bouncy castles, toy tractors, sand pit and adventure playground. Party food supplied – just bring the cake and party bags. Min 10 children. 01204 595 765 / www.smithillsopenfarm.co.uk Total Fitness Studio (ages 4 – 11) and pool parties (ages 8+). www.totalfitness.co.uk Vernon Park Gymnastics Club, Stockport Exclusive use of the gym plus party area for up to 25 children. Qualified gymnastics coach on hand. Party slots available at specific times to work around classes. 0161 406 0488 / vernonparkgym.com Wobbly Bobs Playcentre, Farnworth With cold or hot party food, and optional extras like party bags, face painting and balloons. Sumo wrestling and laser party option and exclusive venue hire available. 01204 576719 / www.wobblybobs.net Zoom Play Centre, Stockport Toddler, midweek, weekend and exclusive options available. 0161 477 2225 / www.zoomplaycentre.co.uk

Birthday Party Pizazz

How to make your parties age-appropriate

By Emma Oliver, mum, journalist and blogger (WritingLifeAsItIs.blogspot.co.uk) It’s difficult to know how to keep kids entertained at parties especially as they get older. At what age do face paints and musical statues no longer cut it? For which age group would you book an entertainer? And when do you move from a party to an outing?

Pre-school Keep it simple. Think dressing up, treasure hunt, face paints and games and have the party at home. Lay out sandwiches and savoury eats first, keeping sweet treats for after. Buy the cake and give a book instead of a party bag. Put presents to one side and open them afterwards.

Ages 4 – 7 An entertainer comes into their own with this age group. Why not ask a friend or relative to take on the task and plan out some games and activities beforehand? Pass the parcel remains a firm favourite here but other games such as pin the tail on the donkey and a Piñata will also be a hit. Or let them get creative with pottery painting at your local studio.

Ages 8 – 11 Book a hall, go to a sports centre or cinema, aerial circus skills, learn a new skill at a restaurant or have it at home (depending on your numbers and bravado). Game ideas include the Chocolate Game (roll a six, dress up, eat the chocolate with a knife and fork – all as fast as you can until the next person throws a six, which makes it their turn), and The Flour Game (cut shards off the flour cake until the coin balanced on top falls. The person responsible retrieves it using only their mouth). Feed them pizza and let them make their own ice cream sundae.

Teens As always with teenagers, it’s all about communication – ha! Sometimes this is easier said than done. Some will want to do what all their friends are doing, while others would they like to do something entirely different. Activities outdoors such as paint balling or Go Ape, the cinema, bowling, theatre, or popstar recording studio experiences can offer this.

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News Flu jab being shunned

The number of people in the UK who have decided to have the flu jab has fallen alarmingly. Doctors are worried that this could lead to a sharp rise in cases of flu in vulnerable groups, such as the elderly.

Should all school staff have first aid training?

Teachers at a school in York didn’t realise when they went on a first aid training course that they would use their newly learned skills just a few months later.

When a 15-year-old boy, Alex, collapsed after suffering a cardiac arrest in a PE class, his teacher Shona Jagger and the school’s matron, Erica Melsom, came to his aid with their skills and a defibrillator.

CPR training is only taught in a quarter of schools but the British Heart Foundation says that it would like mandatory CR training in all schools.

The 6% fall in take-up may be due to the mild autumn weather and the media stories about last year’s flu jab being in some cases ineffectual, according to the Royal College of General Practitioners.

Last year’s variety of flu mutated, meaning that the vaccine was not as effective as it should have been.

Those who may be at most risk of complications from flu, such as those with underlying health problems, pregnant women and the elderly, should be encouraged to take up the vaccine.

The January Merlin Annual Pass Sale now on!

You can get 12 months of fun at 32 magical worlds and make amazing savings in Merlin’s BIG New Year sale.

Your Merlin Annual Pass not only grants you admission to all UK Merlin

attractions such as The Blackpool Tower and SEA LIFE Blackpool but you’ll also receive exclusive pass holder perks, onsite discounts and short break offers.

Prices start from just £99 per person so make this year truly unforgettable – buy a Merlin Annual Pass in the SALE and make every day full of excitement, adventure and FUN! Get your Annual Pass at this great discount at any of the Merlin Blackpool attractions or online at www.merlinannualpass.co.uk.

Sale ends 15 February 2016.

Government Nursery Improvements range of trained professionals should considers banning something go wrong.

In addition, a report by the Early Years homeopathy Foundation has revealed that more and

It has been announced that the Government is considering blacklisting homeopathic treatments.

They may decide to ban doctors from prescribing the treatments, despite the fact that the Faculty of Homeopathy said that the therapies can have “profound effects” for many people and that patients are behind its continued use.

Parents can be confident that their child will be as well looked after at nursery as they can at home thanks to a couple of new initiatives.

Following the death of Millie Thompson who choked and died at her nursery in 2012, her parents Joanne and Dan have successfully campaigned government to ensure that all newly qualified staff with the childcare level 2 and 3 qualification will automatically have training in emergency paediatric first aid or a full paediatric first aid certificate.

Nurseries that reach a ‘gold standard’ of care will receive a certificate to display, known as Millie’s Mark. Introduced in the Spring, this will give parents reassurance that their child is being cared for by a

more children are achieving a good level of development when they enter infant school, thanks to the care and skills they learn at Nursery. They say the gap between girls and boys is getting narrower and also that the gap between disadvantaged children and their peer group is narrowing, though not by as much as would be desirable.

Chief executive of the National Day Nursery Association, Purnima Tanuku OBE, said: “These results show the importance of sufficient funding for nursery places for eligible two-yearolds, which must be of a high quality to make a difference to their life chances.

With the impending doubling of funded childcare hours for three and four-yearolds, this documented progress must not be stalled by limits on funding reducing the quality of the early years education being received in private, voluntary and independent nurseries.”

Families’ choice of the best new books for children

By Justine Crow, parent of three and co-owner of her own bookshop, The Bookseller Crow on Hill (www.booksellercrow.co.uk).

Baby & Toddler Five Minutes’ Peace

by Jill Murphy (Walker RRP £5.99) Published as a board book to celebrate thirty years of this iconic children’s tale about Mrs Large’s vain attempts to get a five minute breather. It works because it is such a familiar scenario to both parent and toddler. I don’t ever remember having a bath without a little voice from the other side of the door asking what I was doing.

3-5 years Is There a Dog in This Book?

by Viviane Schwarz (Walker RRP £6.99) The author’s style is deft and witty and pre-schoolers will chuckle each time they see what each flap reveals (especially when they lift the lid on the pop-up piano). The three cats aren’t laughing though. Nervous that they might just find something unexpectedly canine, they have many near misses.

6-8 years Harry Miller’s Run

by David Almond & Salvatore Rubbino (Walker RRP £9.99) A story from the North by the acclaimed author of Skellig, illustrated by the chap who is famous for his city walk picture books. There’s no danger of any walking here though, because Harry has a race to run.

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Age 9+ The Imaginary by A.F Harrold (Bloomsbury RRP £7.99) For those readers who adore a bit of Dahl comes the story of Rudger, Amanda’s best friend - who just happens to be imaginary. But the scary Mr Bunting is out to catch Rudger, so perhaps he exists after all. Great accompanying images by the prolific Emily Gravett (who most recently produced Meerkat Mail for the much younger age range).

Age 12 to teen The Light That Gets Lost by Natasha Carthew (Bloomsbury RRP £12.99) Sticking with a supernatural theme, we are entering dreamy Patrick Ness territory here, with a surreal landscape inhabited by troubled teens in a compelling tale of revenge and friendship. Dark it may, be but illumination is within reach.

News New warning about processed meats Media attention has once again focused on processed meats as a potential cause of cancer.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has said that processed meat such as bacon, ham and sausages do cause cancer. They say that less than a couple of slices of bacon a day – 50g – can increase the risk of cancer of the colon by 18%. Though meat can have some health benefits, the processes used to preserve meats such as curing, smoking, adding preservatives and

salting have been shown to be carcinogenic. Unprocessed red meat, says WHO, is “probably carcinogenic” but there was less clear evidence.

Cooking meats to a high temperature, such as on a barbecue, is also carcinogenic.

Health advice would now seem to say that the occasional bacon or ham sandwich would not be harmful but that frequent consumption is not good for you.

Big Garden Birdwatch

Last year over half a million people took part in the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch, spotting more than 8.5 million birds across the UK, and the organisers are hoping this year’s watch will be a record-breaking event.

This year’s survey takes place on 30 and 31 January. To take part, simply spend one hour counting the birds in your garden or local park, and record the highest number of each bird species seen at any one time. The morning is the best time to look, when the birds are out and about feeding after a cold winter night. To sign up for a free Big Garden Birdwatch 2016 pack, go to www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch.

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Clubs & Classes Join the club

Making the most of after school activities

By Liat Hughes Joshi

Education is about much more than what goes on in classrooms. A range of extra-curricular activities can offer fun, education, sociability and a boost to confidence. How can your child capitalise on these opportunities?

Choosing activities Follow his or her lead when deciding on classes. That said, it’s ok to point them towards something they might benefit from, such as drama for a shy child. Just don’t force a square peg into a round hole – taking up an activity they really don’t like, in the hope it’ll grow on them, can be counter-productive.

Encourage persistence Consider a rule that your child has to see the term you paid for out before they can give up a class they previously wanted to do – they might well change their mind back about quitting after a few more weeks!

How much is too much?

There’s no set answer about how many activities are optimal – it varies for each child, based on tiredness, enthusiasm and their need for chill out time. If they seem tired, cut back.

Needs change over time Most reception children are exhausted from school for the first term or two, so keep things simple. Equally, once they start secondary school, longer commutes, more homework and exam pressures might mean fewer activities too.

Relaxation time is vital Watch out for overscheduling – quiet contemplation, scope to be creative and relax is just as important as that second musical instrument or third sport.

Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including ‘New Old-fashioned Parenting’ and ‘How to Unplug Your Child’ (both published by Summersdale) and Raising Children: The Primary Years (Pearson).

Dancing feet

By Sally J Hall

Who hasn’t dreamed of being a Prima Ballerina when wafting around the bedroom in a synthetic net tutu? How can you find out what class is best for your child?

Tiny dancer When your child is very young, shuffling around on tip toe while wafting their hands or pretending to be a tiger is about as much as you can ask for. A dance or acting class will keep them keen and entertained – and going back each week. Expect to have to stay for these classes.

Starting to get more serious If your child wants to carry on dancing or acting, start looking at a class where they can take grades or get involved with productions. For ballet there’s the Royal Academy of Dance (rad.org.uk) or for modern dance, Imperial Society Modern Theatre & Tap Dance (istd.org).

If they aren’t motivated by grades, find a class that won’t get boring. Street and jazz dance are great and they can try out holiday classes where they do different activities.

All-round schools such as Stagecoach are also options where they learn to sing, act and dance.

Royal Ballet Associates training If your child is thinking about a career in dance, the Royal Ballet runs classes. The Associates Programme trains children aged eight to 15 (royalballetschool.org.uk).

Boys’ brigade Dance is not just for girls, though your son may have to cope with teasing. There are plenty of roles for male dancers on the stage, in TV and touring groups.

What’s available?

If you’re not sure which style, take your child to a taster session. And if they get older and hang up their ballet shoes, why not encourage them to move on to a funkier style rather than give up dancing altogether? There’s tap, hip hop, contemporary, break dance, street dance and commercial dance (a blend of street and hip hop) to consider too.

10 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Clubs & Classes Let your child belt it out

Ah, the child that loves to sing! We all know one – some are uber-confident and love to show off the latest song they’ve learnt to family and friends, others are a more reserved (maybe even a bit shy) until they think no one is listening and then they let themselves go and sing with real gusto.

The benefits of singing for children is the focus of lots of academic research.

Singing reduces stress, improves

CLUBS & CLASSES CLASSIFIEDS Baby Signing, South Manchester The Babysign Teacher provides the most successful classes to teach your baby to sign. We run short courses and taster sessions at various venues in the South Manchester area. For details, visit our website: www.thebabysignteacher.co.uk, email: carolyn@thebabysignteacher.co.uk or call Carolyn on: 07528 262142.

Little Monkeys Club, Marple Bridge Increase your child’s confidence, co-ordination and fitness through a fun variety of climbing equipment, soft play, shapes, music and movement (including badge scheme) for children walking to 5 years.

Tuesday mornings at Brabyns Recreation Centre, Marple Bridge. Call Karen 07986 182884 or visit www.karenbrook.co.uk/little-monkeys Musical Monkeys Musical entertainment and more for pre-school children aged 1+. First class free, and younger siblings under one welcome free of charge too! Classes in Sale & Timperley and coming soon to Altrincham and Lymm. 0161 976 5176 / www.musical-monkeys.co.uk

feelings of well-being and self-worth.

Singing as part of a group gives a sense of belonging and shared endeavour. It has even been shown to improve academic performance!

Professional singers Claire and Tina O’Brien established the first group for music-mad youngsters in Altrincham in 2012 and have never looked back. Key to their success is a strict no-audition policy, all children are welcome whatever their ability.

Little Belters is going from strength to strength with groups now established in Altrincham, Cheadle Hulme, Chorlton, Didsbury, Lymm and Sale. For more information about Little Belters contact Tina on 07740 464507 or Claire on 07779 668204, email hello@littlebelters.co.uk or visit www.littlebelters.co.uk to see Little Belters in action.

Give your child a head start in life

Tumble Tots prides itself in giving babies and children the best start in life through its award winning physical play programme.

Sessions are designed to develop motor skills in areas of agility, balance, climbing and coordination. Each 45 minute class uses brightly coloured equipment and songs & rhymes to provide a fun learning environment for children from 6 months to 4 years.

The equipment layouts and class formats are different for each age group.

These layouts are changed every two weeks to provide differing challenges for the children.

Classes for up to age 2 are based around a free play concept, with more structure and themes being introduced for children age 2 and above.

Staff are friendly, fully trained and DBS checked. They help and encourage the children and make sure that everything is used safely whilst having lots of fun!

Didsbury – Monday & Friday at Christ Church Timperley – Monday at Altrincham UR Church, Woodlands Parkway Hale – Wednesday & Saturday at Altrincham UR Church, Cecil Road Altrincham – Friday at Altrincham Football Ground For more info, call Jane on 07812 144450. www.tumbletots.com/sale For classes across Bolton and Bury, call Carla on 07496 212259. www.tumbletots.co.uk/bolton

Puddle Ducks A wonderful swimming programme delivering nurturing, fun classes to over 13,000 babies, children and mummies across the UK every week.

Babies and children can join our swimming classes at any age from birth, developing into confident swimmers without even realising they’re learning to swim. By engaging each child’s abilities and natural affinity with water, Puddle Ducks offer simple steps to a lifetime love of swimming.

Every child is different: our fantastic teachers adapt each activity to suit your child, nurturing water confidence and enjoyment. Mums to be can also keep fit, relax and unwind by joining our Aqua Natal classes. Call 0161 883 0222 (Manchester, Stockport and Oldham) or 01257 262622 (East Lancashire). www.puddleducks.com Impact Tuition Ofsted registered independent tuition Centre run by qualified, friendly teachers 5-16, 11+, GCSE. Specialist Dyslexia Centre.

0161 747 1819 / www.impacttuitionurmston.co.uk

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 11

Parents’ place A Healthy Start to the New Year! Help to change a child’s life

Having a box of Organic Fruit & Vegetables delivered is just the thing to ensure you and the family eat healthy produce throughout the year – a great way to maintain that New Year’s resolution!

By choosing Organic you can be sure that there are no pesticides in your food and can feel good about supporting farmers who care for their environment and adhere to strict animal welfare standards.

Foodlife is a local, independent, family business who celebrated their 20th Birthday last year. They were also recognised by the Soil Association as being one of the top 4 Organic box schemes

in the whole of the UK, after achieving finalist status in the Soil Association Organic awards – what an achievement!

Take a look at their website and see what is being delivered in the boxes this week.

To celebrate the New Year, Foodlife is giving you 10% off of your first organic order if placed during January & February 2016. Just add the coupon code “familiesnewyear16” when prompted on the website www.foodlifeorganic.co.uk (minimum spend £12.50).

Enjoy your super healthy, super tasty, super convenient (and great value!) Organic veggie boxes and have a great 2016!

Family Protection …. have you got it covered?

Starting a family brings with it a huge new set of responsibilities, caring for your children day to day, ensuring they are well and provided for, but what would happen if you, or your partner, were suddenly taken away from the family due to early death? How would they cope without the love of Mum or Dad? And where would that leave them financially?

With a family to provide for, life insurance is a vital requirement. You may well have life insurance to ensure the mortgage on the family home is paid off in the event of one of you passing away, but is that really enough? If Dad was to pass away and the mortgage was cleared could Mum afford to pay the other bills without his income? If Mum was to die could Dad afford to cover the extra childcare that would be required, or perhaps drop to part time work to care for the children himself?

An element of life insurance for family protection could make a huge difference if the worst was to happen. But how much do you need? What type of policy should you go for?

The Insurance Surgery is a leading specialist insurance broker based in Macclesfield. The team there are able to discuss your personal circumstances and give you advice on the type and level of cover that could help your family if needed. The Insurance Surgery is even able to assist you in finding cover if you have a pre-existing medical condition.

There’s also the opportunity to earn £100 cashback on your policy – for more information about this, as well as full terms and conditions, go to www.familiesmanchester.co.uk/cashback.

Call 0800 083 2829 to see how you could protect your family even when you are no longer around. www.the-insurance-surgery.co.uk

12 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Beanstalk is a local children’s literacy charity that supports over 1400 children in the North West through recruiting and training reading helpers.

Although they already have nearly 400 volunteers giving up their time to support children in local primary schools, they need many more!

Each Beanstalk reading helper supports 3 children, on a one-to-one basis, for two afternoons a week, providing much needed consistency and support to the children and making a real difference to their confidence and wellbeing. Sessions are child-led, with a mixture of reading, conversation and play to engage the children.

Training and a DBS check is provided as well as ongoing support from Beanstalk. You can call 0161 8149515 for more information or apply directly at www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk.

Annoying or deadly?

How intolerances and allergies can make your child’s life a misery

By Radhika Holmstrom

Everyone’s heard of an ‘allergic reaction’.

But what does that actually mean?

And what is the difference between an allergy and an intolerance?

To start with, an ‘allergic reaction’ isn’t actually caused by the ‘allergen’. It’s caused by a person’s own immune system reacting to something which most people find completely harmless. Unfortunately, these defence chemicals also produce symptoms like inflammation and irritation.

At the worst end of the spectrum there’s anaphylactic shock, with a rash, swelling in the throat – which can cut off the airways – and plummeting blood pressure.

Could it be my child – and what should I do?

If your child’s showing an allergic-type reaction to particular foods, the sensible thing is to get them to the GP and then press for a referral to a consultant if you need to.

If they do turn out to have a serious allergy, they’re likely to be prescribed an EpiPen, which injects adrenaline into the body to relax their airways and muscles so they can start breathing again (remember the EpiPen should be renewed regularly and you must get your child to the hospital as an emergency as soon as you have used it). But the main course of action from here on is just avoiding the allergen.

Intolerance It’s also important to know that a lot of people who think they’ve got an allergy actually have a food ‘intolerance’. They do get a reaction of some sort but not an allergic one. Intolerances are harder to identify and there are only a few reliable tests. But the good thing is that although they can be very nasty on the gut, with bloating and stomach cramps, they’re not actually life-threatening. Once again, though, do talk to the GP and try to get a referral to a dietitian or similar – especially if you suspect that the problem lies with gluten because in fact the culprit may be coeliac disease.

Don’t DIY At their worst, allergies can be deadly – and at their mildest, both allergies and intolerances are pretty annoying. Nobody really wants to spend their time scrutinising lists of ingredients. If you do suspect your child has one, don’t try and diagnose it yourself, or with the help of a ‘kit’ from a company. Get the professionals on board to help work out what the problem is. You may well find it’s quite different from the one you suspected; and you may even find that your child doesn’t have an allergy or an intolerance at all.

Radhika Holmstrom has a strong background in health journalism. She has also written for many consumer and specialist magazines.

Whilst she focuses on health, parenting and learning issues, she has also written widely on environmental and ethical issues.

She is a visiting lecturer at Middlesex University, lecturing to undergraduates and postgraduates on feature-writing.

Parents’ place Complementary therapy for children

By Sally J Hall

It takes two...families Should you share a holiday with another family?

By Sally J Hall

Many of us try various complementary therapies to help with aches and pains or a medical condition but they can be just as effective for children, too. Which are best for your little ones?

Cranial osteopathy Osteopaths believe that because babies are put into such stressful positions during labour and birth, there has been a lot of pressure on the head. They claim that this can be healed with osteopathy. It can, they say, help with feeding problems, colic, reflux and plagiocephaly, or flat head syndrome. Never attempt this yourself and only ever use a qualified osteopath.

Aromatherapy Though you should be careful about using certain essential oils, as they can be very powerful, you can use aromatherapy with your baby or child (use just 5 drops of essential oil to 30ml carrier oil).

Chamomile in the bath (2-3 drops) helps promote sleep, lavender calms and cleanses and eucalyptus can help with a stuffed-up nose. Roman chamomile can help stop the itching of chicken pox with a couple of drops in the bath and dill is used for

digestive problems. Read a good book about this first or consult an aromatherapist.

Please ensure that all essentials oils and carrier oils are kept out of the reach of children.

Reflexology Especially good for babies and toddlers but just as good with older children, reflexology uses gentle pressure on the foot using your thumbs and fingers. It has been shown to calm babies and help them sleep. Contact the Association of Aromatherapists to find a practitioner near you (www.aor.org.uk).

Massage This can be done at home though it’s worth going to a few classes first to learn the techniques. It’s a great way to bond with your baby or child and can help with trapped wind, sleep and other problems such as anxiety. It has been shown to be calming and reassuring for children with special needs, too.

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

It seems like a great idea when you and a friend are daydreaming about your next holiday and it turns out you both want to hire a cottage in Cornwall. If you want to go away with both your families and share the costs of the holiday, read our tips to make this a holiday to remember – not a nightmare.

A little knowledge is a dangerous thing…

How well do you know the other family?

Are there areas of their life you find difficult to cope with? If you’re a neat freak and they are the kind to ignore mould on the milk bottle – or the other way around – you’re probably not going to get along with each other’s standards of housekeeping.

Do you know what their politics are?

And do your children get along?

All good friends Your partners also need to get on and you need to be friends as a foursome.

The grown-ups need to be united if there are disputes between the children. Spend a day together in the run-up to the holiday and have the children on a sleep-over to iron out problems before you go.

Set the rules Make some ground rules. Set a budget and decide how you are going to share

the price of the house and shopping once you are away. It’s best to share everything equally (easy if your families are the same size, otherwise work it out proportionately).

Talk this all through before you go, as the last thing you want is an argument at the supermarket check-out!

Doing the housework The chores will also have to be shared equally, so that nobody has to do all the cooking or all the washing up. Take it in turns and eat out a couple of times so that you all get a break.

Us-time As there are other grown-ups with you, this would be an ideal opportunity to have some time alone with your partner.

Take it in turns to look after all the children, so that each couple has some personal space.

A room of one’s own Make sure there’s room for you all to have some personal space. Even the best of friends can end up getting on each other’s nerves at times. Letting the kids sleep in the same room may backfire too, as they will be so excited that they may not get to sleep before the small hours.

While there may be some things to consider before you embark on a holiday with friends, there are many advantages.

You can afford somewhere much nicer than you might otherwise have done, you can share chores and babysitting and you can forge lifelong friendships between both the adults and the children. With a little forethought, this could truly be a holiday to remember!

Advertise in Families Manchester

Call Jayne on: 01625 801801 or email advertising@familiesmanchester.co.uk

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 13

What’s on National Awareness Days Look out for some great local activities across the region in January and February and show your support where you can.

These listings are for guidance only – please check before you go To include your upcoming event in our listings, email events@familiesmanchester.co.uk ACTIVITIES Every Tues during Jan & Feb (term time) The Wacky Woods (Styperson Quarry Woods, Macclesfield) After School Club 4 – 6pm. Let off some steam after school. Outdoor games, a bit of risky play, creativity in the woods and some Mission Explore quests as well as a drink and snack cooked on the campfire.

Pre-school Sessions – Stay ‘n’ Play 10am – 12pm.Have fun in the woods with your preschooler. Even young babies can appreciate the joys of nature. Lots of sensory play activities to enjoy with your children, with guided sessions. New simple theme each week – no need to book.

01625 573 086 / www.wackywoods.co.uk

Every Wed in Jan & Feb

Ordsall Hall, Salford Unce Upon A Time 9.45am / under 5s / £1 per child. Discover what’s behind the doors of Ordsall Hall with a different activity each week such as storytelling, craft or music. www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk Rainbow Rooms Community Centre, Salford Danceability 5 – 6pm / Age 8 – 16 / £2 per session Dance classes for children with a disability. Learn dance moves to the latest music with opportunities to perform at shows. 0161 778 0561 / 0037 / www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Every Fri in Jan & Feb

Big Schools Garden Watch Mon 4 Jan – Fri 12 Feb www.rspb.org.uk World Religion Day Mon 18 Jan Breakfast Week Sun 24 – Sat 30 Jan www.shakeupyourwakeup.com/breakfast-week Cervical Cancer Prevention Week Sun 24 – Sat 30 Jan www.jostrust.org.uk Burns Night Mon 25 Jan www.robertburns.org Holocaust Memorial Day Wed 27 Jan www.hmd.org.uk RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch Sat 30 & Sun 31 Jan www.rspb.org.uk National Bug Busting Day Sun 31 Jan www.chc.org National Storytelling Week Sat 30 Jan – Sat 6 Feb www.sfs.org.uk/national-storytelling-week UNICEF Day for Change Ccollect change between Jan & May www.unicef.org.uk/Get-Involved/ Your-organisation/Schools/day-for-change Chinese New Year Mon 8 Feb www.chinesenewyears.info Shrove Tuesday (Pancake Day) Tues 9 Feb Safer Internet Day Tues 9 Feb www.saferinternetday.org.uk Ash Wednesday: Wed 10 Feb Fairtrade Fortnight: Mon 29th Feb – Sun 13 Mar www.fairtrade.org.uk

The Lowry, Salford Under 5s First Steps 10am – 10.45am & 11am – 11.45am / Under 5s / £3.50 An active workshop in The Studio where your little one can explore their creativity and have tons of fun! Wriggle, jiggle and jump as we explore stories, rhythm and music through our bodies.

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Every Fri during Jan & Feb (term time)

The Wacky Woods (Styperson Quarry Woods, Macclesfield) Pre-School Forest School 10am – 12pm / Age 3 & 4 (must be accompanied) Regular weekly forest school providing fun learning in the woods: developing selfconfidence and social, emotional and physical skills in preparation for school. Booking essential in half-termly blocks.

01625 573 086 / www.wackywoods.co.uk

Thurs 7 Jan & Thurs 4 Feb

John Rylands Library, Manchester Toddler Tales 10.30 – 11.30am / under 5s / No booking required Find a cosy corner, pull up a cushion and listen to fun stories. Join in playtime, creating a story world of your own.

0161 306 0555 / www.library.manchester.ac.uk

Thurs 7 & 21 Jan Thurs 4 & 18 Feb

Touchstones Rochdale Shake, Rattle and Roll 11am – 12pm / under 4s / Free Make some noise in the Art Gallery! A fun, musical drop-in session.

01706 924492 / www.link4life.org

Fri 8 Jan & Fri 5 Feb

Hat Works, Stockport Bowler Hat Babies 10.30 – 11.15am & 11.30 – 12.15pm / £5 per baby with two free accompanying adults Interactive stories and sensory play for babies who are not yet walking. Booking essential.

0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/hatworks

14 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Tues 12 & 26 Jan Tues 9 & 23 Feb

Touchstones Rochdale Baby Play Baby Do 11 – 11.45am / under 2s / Free. Creative discovery and sensory play sessions in the Art Gallery.

01706 924492 / www.link4life.org

Fri 15 Jan & Fri 12 Feb The Lowry, Salford Under 5s Doodle Tots 10am – 10.45am & 11am – 11.45am / Under 5s / £3.50. Enjoy painting, sticking and making your own works of art in this colourful workshop.

No skills or expertise needed. Children must be accompanied – aprons provided!

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Fri 8 Jan

Manchester Art Gallery Mini Art Club 10.15 - 11.15am & 11.30am - 12.30pm / Age 1 – 4 / Free but booking essential. Get to know the artworks, investigate materials and make friends in our artist led workshops. 0161 235 8888 / www.manchestergalleries.org

Sat 9 Jan

Manchester Art Gallery Family Art Club 1 – 3pm / Age 5 - 11 / Free but limited places Look at art, be creative and make things together.

0161 235 8888 / www.manchestergalleries.org Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) Pi at the Platform for Investigation 10.30am – 3.30am / Age 8+ / Free. Explore the universe with the space-themed Platform for Investigation. Join in with demonstrations to show warping of space-time and the scale of space, discover the phases of the moon and chat with scientists about using telescopes for exploration including a solar telescope (weather permitting!) 0161 833 0027 / www.msimanchester.org.uk

Sat 9, 16, 23 & 30 Jan Sat 6 & 13 Feb

Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery 12 – 4pm / All age / Free, drop in Meet The Artist Days - Jamie Nowell 0161 474 4453 / www.stockport.gov.uk/artgallery

Every Saturday in Jan & Feb The Lowry, Salford Lookout, it’s Saturday Playhouse 11am – 12.30pm / Age 5 – 11 / Free. Art activities for children and their families – a different theme each week. Children must be accompanied.

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Every Sat during Jan & Feb (term time)

The Wacky Woods (Styperson Quarry Woods, Macclesfield) O.W.L.S. 9.30 – 11.30am / Adult £3, Child £10. An outdoor woodland learning scheme every Saturday morning during term time. An educational but fun programme for all ages.

All sessions include woodland games, some unstructured play and a key themed activity each week.

01625 573 086 / www.wackywoods.co.uk

Every Sat & Sun in Jan & Feb Salford Museum & Art Gallery Creation Station See what you can make at the craft table! www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Hat Works, Stockport Messy Milliners 11 – 11.45am & 1 – 1.45pm / £3 per baby with two free accompanying adults. An exciting and innovative messy play session with a hatting theme. Booking essential.

0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/hatworks

Sat 16 Jan

Manchester Art Gallery 9.15 –10.45am / Age 5 – 16 with families/carers / Free, drop in. A series of creative, sensory activities especially aimed at children with autism.

0161 235 8869 / www.manchestergalleries.org

Sat 16 & Sun 17 Jan

Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre Destination Space - The Astronaut Science Show 11am – 3pm (30 min shows at 11am, 12pm, 2pm & 3pm) / Free (normal admission applies) / Booking essential. Learn about the dangers, realities and daily routine of life in space. Watch a mini-rocket launch, discover how astronauts go about their everyday tasks in microgravity, find out why tiny meteorites are threatening and why returning to Earth is so very dangerous.

01477 571766 / www.jodrellbank.net

Fri 22 Jan & Fri 19 Feb

Hat Works, Stockport Top Hat Toddlers 10.30am – 12.30pm / £3 per child with two free accompanying adults. A ‘stay and play’ drop in session with plenty of age-appropriate activities for toddlers and pre-schoolers. 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/hatworks

Fri 29 Jan & Fri 26 Feb

Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) Experitots 10 – 11.30am / under 6s / £3 for one adult + one child, £2 for each additional child/adult. A popular creative activity session using puppets and storytelling to help toddlers get the most out of the hands on science gallery, Experiment! A different theme each month. Advance booking recommended.

29 Jan: 123 Let’s Count 26 Feb: Our World 0161 833 0027 / www.msimanchester.org.uk Hat Works, Stockport Mad Hatter’s Arts & Craft Club 2 – 3pm / Under 2s / £5 per child with two free accompanying adults. Booking essential. An action-packed hour of arts and crafts.

0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/hatworks

Sat 30 Jan

Salford Museum & Art Gallery Sketch with Sculley 12.30 – 3pm / all ages / £2 per person, booking essential Join artist John Sculley for an afternoon of drawing to coincide with his exhibition ‘Culture, Barricades & Badges’.The afternoon will include: 12.30pm - 1.00pm - Tour of exhibition 1.00pm - 2.30pm - Sketching round the building with assistance for learners from the artist 2.30pm - 3.00pm - Meet up to share sketches All materials provided but please feel free to also bring your own. www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Remember to check our What’s On Calendar on www.familiesmanchester.co.uk regularly, as not all event information is available at the time of going to print.

Thurs 4, 11 & 25 Feb

Portland Basin Museum, Ashton under Lyne Little Hands 10am – 11am. Storytelling, crafts and fun for pre-schoolers. www.tameside.gov.uk

Sat 6 – Sun 21 Feb

Chatsworth House, Bakewell Half term at the farmyard & adventure playground 10.30am - 4.30pm. Take a galleon ride into the high seas of Stand wood, join a hands on journey of ‘creepy crawlies’ from around the world and so much more.

01246 565300 / www.chatsworth.org

Sun 7 Feb

Salford Museum & Art Gallery Lark Hill Place Sweet Shop 12:30pm. Visit Mr Tomlinson’s Sweet Shop on recreated Victorian street, Lark Hill Place and pick up some sweet treats! www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Sat 13 Feb

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal Baby and Toddler - Storytelling and Play session 9.30 – 10.15am & 10.15 – 11am / Free (normal admission applies), no booking required. Bring your little ones to Quarry Bank, for a special storytelling and play session just for them. 01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank

Sat 13 – Sun 21 Feb

Stockley Farm, Arley Half Term Fun on the Farm 10am – 4pm. See the farm in Springtime, meet new friends and familiar faces and look forward to the arrival of newborn lambs, piglets and many more! www.stockleyfarm.co.uk/events Tatton Park, Knutsford Scarecrow Festival Over 30 scarecrows will be resident in the Gardens.

Find the farmyard scarecrows and have a go at making your own. Normal admission applies. Closed Monday.

01625 374400 / www.tattonpark.org.uk

Mon 15 – Fri 19 Feb

Quarry Bank Mill, Styal February Half Term 11am – 4pm / Free, normal admission applies. Have extra fun this February half term with free hands-on craft activities for children. 01625 527468 / www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarry-bank

The Lowry, Salford Half Term Little Actors 11am / Age 5 – 11 / £3.50. Celebrate the visit of Shrek in the Lyric Theatre and journey through the fairytale forest on your way to Duloc to rescue princess Fiona.

Separate individual workshops each day. Booking essential.

Half Term Little Artists 11am / Age 5 – 11 / £3.50. Make your own fairytale characters during this fun filled half term workshop.

Separate individual workshops each day. Booking essential. 0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre Destination Space - The Astronaut Science Show 11am – 3pm (30 min shows at 11am, 12pm, 2pm & 3pm) / Free with normal admission / Booking essential. Learn about the dangers, realities and daily routine of life in space. Watch a mini-rocket launch, discover how astronauts go about their everyday tasks in microgravity, find out why tiny meteorites are threatening and why returning to Earth is so very dangerous.

February Half Term – Meet the Expert 1 – 1.45pm / Free with normal admission. Meet one of our resident scientific and engineering experts, find out about their work and quiz them about what they do and their knowledge of Jodrell Bank. Most suitable for older children and adults.

01477 571766 / www.jodrellbank.net

Tues 16 Feb

Hat Works, Stockport Perfect Printing Workshop 9am – 4pm / Ages 8 – 12 / £12 per child, booking essential. Learn different ways to print onto cloth and paper – screen print,block print and lino print Bring a 100% cotton, plain t-shirt to print a design onto. All other materials provided. 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/hatworks

Tues 16 & Wed 17 Feb

Staircase House, Stockport Magic in the House 10.30am – 12pm / Age 7+ / £5 (one adult free per paying child), booking essential. An extravaganza of magic using everyday objects. Find out the secrets of magic and learn a trick or two yourself to surprise 0161 474 4444/ www.stockport.gov.uk/staircasehouse

The Wellbeing Farm, Bolton Children’s Cookery 10.30am – 12.30pm (Ages 6 – 11) / £35. 2 – 4pm (Age 12 – 15) / £45. Let your child develop confidence in the kitchen and around food, while having loads of fun learning to cook. They’ll learn key skills and a minimum of two new dishes – and will be presented with a certificate and a pack to take away with them.

Booking essential. 01204 852113 / www.thewellbeingfarm.co.uk

Thurs 18 Feb

Hat Works, Stockport Funky Felt 9am – 4pm / Age 8 – 12 / £12, booking essential.

Find out why felt was so important to hat makers and then have a go at making some of your own to turn into a bracelet, a wallet or a picture to take home.

0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/hatworks

Portland Basin Museum, Ashton under Lyne Jolly Holidays 11am – 3pm / All ages / 50p per child. Artist led craft activities.www.tameside.gov.uk

Touchstones Rochdale Wild Woods Family Funday 11am – 2pm / Ages 5 – 12 / Free, drop-in. Join the Red Rose Forest team, the staff at Touchstones Rochdale, volunteers, artists and community organisations for an exciting day of forest inspired crafts with a wild woods theme! Activities include: papermaking, mask making, puppet making and a giant mural too. Why not also join costumed facilitator ‘Professor Jigget’ for a 40-minute family Trees Tale Trail in Broadfield Park.

Tours start at 11.30am, 12.30pm or 1.30pm - just sign up on the day. Pop-in for half an hour or stay and enjoy all three fantastic hours! 01706 924492 / www.link4life.org

Tues 16 – Sun 21 Feb

Sat 20 Feb

Tatton Park, Knutsford Deer Feed and Trailer Ride 9.30 – 10.30am / Age 4+ / £6 (normal admission applies). Take a trailer ride with the Rangers to watch the daily deer feed. Get a close look at hundreds of deer feeding in their beautiful natural setting. Children must be accompanied.

01625 374428 /www.tattonpark.org.uk

Tues 16 & Thurs 18 Feb

Salford Museum & Art Gallery Holiday Quiz 10am – 4.45pm (Tue – Fri), 1pm – 4pm (Sat & Sun) / £1 per child. Get involved in our holiday quiz and receive a small prize! www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Staircase House, Stockport Spring Fun Day 12 – 4pm / All ages / Free, drop in. Spring is in the air! Fun activities across the Museum to celebrate the start of the season. 0161 474 4444 / www.stockport.gov.uk/staircasehouse

Wed 17 Feb

Sat 20 & Sun 21 Feb

Orchard Area, Cheetham Park, Stalybridge Wild Woods 1 – 3pm. A fun day in the countryside for families.

Follow a woodland trail, construct a shelter and have a go at woodland crafts. www.tameside.gov.uk

East Lancashire Railway Spring Diesel Gala A diesel powered extravaganza with locomotives from both the ELR’s own highly regarded home fleet, as well as visiting guest locomotives from other heritage railways.

0161 764 7790 / www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Portland Basin Museum, Ashton under Lyne Meet Tommy Atkins: First World War Soldier 11am – 3pm. Have you ever wondered what a soldier wore, what he ate, how he lived, fought and died in the ‘Great War for Civilisation’? www.tameside.gov.uk

Sun 21 Feb

Hat Works, Stockport A Hat Full of Stories!

10.30 – 11.15am / Age 3 – 5 / Free, booking essential Relax in the story den, listen to and take part in some stories about hats and other things. Then play in the themed family area.

Super Sewing 2 – 4pm / Age 7+ / £2, drop in. Thread your needles and get sewing! Design and make a wall hanging or placemat to take home. 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/hatworks Stockport Air Raid Shelters Children’s Explorer Tours 6.45 – 8.15pm /Age 7+ / Child: £3.95, Adult £3 / Booking essential. Exciting children’s version of the ever popular Explorer Tours. Brave the darkened tunnels as you go back in time and experience the life of a child during the war.

0161 474 1940 / www.stockport.gov.uk/museums Salford Museum and Art Gallery Workshop with John Sculley 10.30am – 12.30pm & 1.30 – 3.30pm / Free, drop-in Join artist John Sculley on this family friendly workshop to learn about drawing and have a go yourself. www.salfordcommunityleisure.co.uk

Hat Works, Stockport Super Sunday: Chinese New Year Party 11am – 4pm / All ages / £1.50 (under 5s free), drop in A wonderful day for all the family packed with oriental themed activities to celebrate the arrival of the year of the monkey. 0161 474 2399 / www.stockport.gov.uk/hatworks

Sat 27 & Sun 28 Feb

Middleton Arena The Manchester Model Engineering Exhibition 2016 A fantastic exhibition of model engineering including locomotives from gauges 1 to 10¼, stationary engines, i.c. engines, traction engines, etc. A unique opportunity to see some of the finest model engineering in the world. A brilliant family day out and an inspiration to all engineers, old and new with many fascinating attractions. www.mmex.co.uk

Sat 5 Mar

The Lowry, Salford Birmingham Royal Ballet – Romeo and Juliet Open Class 11.15am / Ticket from £5 – £10. Ever wondered just how ballet dancers do what they do? This is your chance to look behind the scenes and watch Birmingham Royal Ballet’s talented dancers in their final preparations for a performance of world class dancing.

The Lowry, Salford (The Lookout) Romeo and Juliet Family Fun Day 12 – 1.30pm/ Free but booking essential. Fun for all the family in this unique opportunity to meet the company of Birmingham Royal Ballet, see the costumes, take part in creative activities and even have your face painted!

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

What’s on SHOWS & PERFORMANCES Fri 8 – Sun 10 Jan, Wed 13 – Sun 17 Jan

Waterside Arts Centre, Sale Babes In The Wood A traditional family panto brought to you by Sale Nomads. Full of Goodies to cheer and Baddies to boo and hiss. 0161 912 5616 / www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Fri 8 – Sat 16 Jan (except Mon 11 Jan)

The Carver Theatre, Marple Dick Whittington From the sewers of London to the shores of Morocco... join our hero Dick Whittingon in this traditional family pantomime. 0161 449 8363 / www.carvertheatre.co.uk

Wed 13 – Sat 16 Jan

Bath House Theatre, Manchester Jack and the Beanstalk Filled with popular songs and opportunities for audience interaction, Jack and the Beanstalk is the perfect pantomime experience for all the family. www.northwesttheatreartscompany.co.uk

Thurs 14 – Sat 16 Jan

The Palace Theatre, Manchester Moscow City Ballet presents The Nutcracker 2016 Tchaikovsky’s big story ballets are the essence of Russian culture – composed, choreographed and premiered in Russia. Seeing performances

by Moscow dancers never fails to add that magical ingredient of Russian soul. www.atgtickets.com

Sun 17 Jan

Stockport Plaza Jimmy Cricket Family Laughter Show Much loved Irish comedian, Jimmy Cricket, brings one-liners galore, a sprinkling of visual comedy and, yes, that ever present letter from his mammy to the Plaza this January. 0161 477 7779 / www.stockportplaza.co.uk

Wed 20 Jan – Sat 5 Mar

The Palace Theatre, Manchester Mary Poppins The magical story of the world’s favourite Nanny arriving on Cherry Tree Lane has been triumphantly and spectacularly brought to the stage with dazzling choreography, incredible effects and unforgettable songs. Perfect for ages 5+. www.atgtickets.com

Sun 24 Jan

The Lowry, Salford Tom Thumb Long ago when all the world was wood the most fearsome foe was the one that breathed fire…

DNA Puppertry & Visual Theatre bring the story of Tom Thumb to life in an exciting adventure for children aged 4 – 9 and their families.

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester Sing Along with Frozen A new Children’s Sunday Series launches in style with the RNCM’s own take on Elsa, Olaf and company, suitable for age 5+. Go along dressed as your favourite character, have your face painted and ‘Let it Go’.

0161 907 5200 / www.rncm.ac.uk

Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 15

What’s on

These listings are for guidance only – please check before you go To include your upcoming event in our listings, email events@familiesmanchester.co.uk

Sat 30 & Sun 31 Jan

Fri 29 – Sun 31 Jan

Buxton Opera House Moscow State Circus - Zhelaniy A brand new show inspired by Russian folklore, introduced by the loveable buffoons Wizard Wako and his crazy sidekick Natalia. Featuring the award-winning Ruban, a 13 person springboard troupe, a high wire ballerina and beautiful daredevil aerial divas.

0845 127 2190 / www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

Sat 30 Jan Z-arts, Hulme The Sleepover An interactive modern fairytale; a re-imagining of the ‘Princess and the Pea’. Follow the story of an adventurous girl, her sleepy dad and a pit-bull dog called Prince.

In this build-your-own audio pop-up poetry book of the tale, audiences are invited to create and record sounds as part of the live music. Expect magical storms, a bit of air guitar and a happy ending. Free arts activities before & after all shows. 0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org

Manchester Arena Strictly Come Dancing Live 2016 Experience the glitz, glamour and breathtaking choreography which make Strictly Come Dancing a national entertainment treasure. It promises to be simply fab-u-LOUS! www.manchester-arena.com

Tues 2 – Sat 20 Feb

The Lowry, Salford Shrek The Musical Direct from the West End and larger than life, it’s the biggest, brightest musical comedy around!

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Sun 31 Jan

The Lowry, Salford Tadpoles A tadpole catching competition challenges a superhero duo to work as team and save the world - together! Suitable for age 5+.

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com Middleton Arena All Star Variety Show 2 A star studded evening of fantastic entertainment fr all the family with all proceeds being donated to Macmillan Cancer Support, Duchenne Now, St Ann’s Hospice and Tomas Leighton Care.

Featuring ‘The Jersey Boys’ tribute, Silver Gems Dance Troupe, The JTC Choir, The Lemon Tree Band, Tom Jones Tribute, Real Deal Irish Dancers, International comedian Jed Stone plus a very special surprise celebrity guest!

0300 303 8633 / www.link4life.org

Tues 2 Feb

Manchester Arena Nitro Circus Live The best athletes in freestyle motocross (FMX), BMX, skate and more unite for a spectacular all-new production. New tricks, record-breaking feats, insane stunts and the craziest contraptions ever, plus a whole new repertoire of daredevil fun. www.manchester-arena.com

Fri 5 Feb

Stockport Plaza Dance Extravaganza Returning to The Plaza for their annual showcase of the very finest in performance talent. The perfect evening of family entertainment for everyone to enjoy.

0161 477 7779 / www.stockportplaza.co.uk

Sat 6 Feb

The Lowry, Salford (The Compass Room) The Lost Things A boy falls and finds himself in a dark and terrifying new world of lost things: car keys, wedding rings, dads, and a mysterious girl who is building an amazing machine. Performed in a unique dome structure, The Lost Things is about losing things and finding things you didn’t even know you were looking for. Suitable for or ages 9+.

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Sat 13 – Tues 16 Feb

Waterside Arts Centre, Sale The Emperor’s New Clothes Stuff and Nonsense present a brand new romp through a classic, eccentric tale, telling the story of an Emperor who loves clothes more than anything.

But despite a wardrobe the size of Paris he hasn’t got a stitch to wear! A great show for all the family.

0161 912 5616 / www.watersideartscentre.co.uk

Sun 14 Feb

Middleton Arena One And Only Direction Formed following the phenomenal international success of the World’s number one boy band, One And Only Direction have arrived to deliver the ultimate tribute experience. The band’s commitment to authenticity delivers high-energy replica stage shows that leave audiences roaring for more.

0300 303 8633 / www.link4life.org

Heywood Civic Centre Freezing and Icy Adventure Take a trip to the snowy heights of Arendel and get lost in a whirlwind of song, dance and snow! Sing along to all the hits, play frosty games and learn how to cast icy spells with your favourite princesses in this interactive treat. Learn to dance with a snowman and practice casting icy spells with a real snow queen.

0300 303 8633 / www.link4life.org

Wed 17 – Sun 21 Feb

The Lowry, Salford We’re Going On a Bear Hunt Join our intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure – plus a few special surprises! Suitable for age 3+.

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Thurs 18 Feb

The Lowry, Salford Comedy Club 4 Kids A family friendly show without any patronising idiocy.

In fact, it’s just like a normal comedy club, without the rude bits – and there’s a higher than usual chance of heckles like “why is that your face!?”

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Fri 19 – Sun 21 Feb

The Lowry, Salford Kite A lonely girl is taken to live in her grandma’s airless flat where the windows are shut tight. Her memories of seagulls and sand dunes begin to fade in the silence. One night a handmade kite comes to life and heralds the start of a wild adventure and the chance to find what it seemed was lost forever. A play without words, with originally composed music, dance, puppetry and of course kites.. Suitable for age 7+. There’s also a chance after the show to meet the Kite, puppets and cast.

0843 208 6000 / www.thelowry.com

Fri 26 Feb

Stockport Plaza The Houghton Weavers A wonderful evening of entertainment suitable for all the family.

0161 477 7779 / www.stockportplaza.co.uk

Sat 27 Feb Mon 15 Feb

Buxton Opera House The Tortoise & The Hare Performed by the critically acclaimed Northern Ballet.

It’s the perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre. Each child-friendly performance lasts approximately 40 minutes with no interval. 0845 127 2190 / www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

Wed 17 Feb

Pavilion Arts Centre, Buxton How The Koala Learnt To Hug Adapted from the bestselling book by Steven Lee and written especially for parents to enjoy with their children. Great stories, sing along songs, superb games and first class hugging! As an extra treat, author Steven will be signing books after the show! For ages 3 to 103!

0845 127 2190 / www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

16 Families Manchester | www.familiesmanchester.co.uk

Z-arts, Hulme Sparkle 10.30am: Ages 0-2 / 12.30pm:Ages 3-4 / 2.30pm: Ages 3-4. Under a shimmering carousel, a magical world opens up…Welcome to Sparkle, a gentle, interactive performance and creative play session for babies and young children by Alison McGowan of PuppetShip and visual artist Tanya Axford. A nonverbal performance that takes place in a darkened environment. Free arts activities before & after all shows. 0161 226 1912 / www.z-arts.org Stockport Plaza 2016 Chinese New Year Extravaganza An array of amazing Chinese acrobatics and kung fu.

With a line-up of programmes including the auspicious Lion Dance, the awe-inspiring contortion, the ancient magic of Face Changing, juggling, nimble staff-spinning ‘monkeys’ and more, this colourful and action packed show is the perfect entertainment for all ages!

0161 477 7779 / www.stockportplaza.co.uk