FamiliesBedsIss41JulAug2019

FRE E

TAKE M

E HOM

E

Bedfordshire IN THIS ISSUE SUMMER OF FUN Holiday Activities ●

● WIN!

A Family Day Ticket to The Milton Maize Maze & UglyDolls Merchandise Packs - see page 2 to enter ● Education.

Parenting.

What's on and more...

Summer of Fun 22 July – 30 Aug

It’s Back

!

er Fun! of Summ A Full Day rty y Foam Pa End of Da

AZING • AM er Shows W Summ • NE imals W Baby An • NE Play , GE Indoor Climbing •PlHU l, ai Rock of us Sky Tr metable full ti Play & a Outdoor vities! daily acti

Nr Leighton Buzzard, LU7 9J H

05 MOF-AM-19-100 Ad-Summer (Beds-118x70).indd 1

Issue 41 July/August 2019

email: editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk Tel: 07824 377175

meadopenfarm.co.uk

24/05/2019 15:19

familiesonline.co.uk

For a Family Day Ticket to The Milton Maize Maze worth £46 just tell us the correct answer A B or C? Where can you see our daily shows at The Milton Maize Maze?

A. The Crazy Cow B. The Funny Farm C. The Crazy Cornitorium

contents

COMPETITION

News

6

Parenting

7

Early Years

8

Education

9

Clubs & Classes

10

Summer Holiday Activities Summer Holiday Fun in Bedfordshire

12-13

Please send your answers and contact details to editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk. Entry deadline: 20th July 2019. Winners will receive a telephone call.

T&C’s: Valid any day 23rd July – 3rd September 2019.

Two adults and 3 children or 1 adult and 4 children.

No Monetary value but not named.

To advertise in this magazine contact:

4-5

14-16

What’s on

Find us and folllow us on:

Michéllin Store - Editor m: 07824 377175 e: editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk Sarah Harmer - Designer www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

COMPETITION

Facebook.com/familiesbedfordshire @FamiliesBeds families_beds18

Make sure to pick up the Sept/Oct Summer 'Back to school' issue Out on the Marston Vale Community Rail Par 1st September 2019.

Try the New Trains on the Marston Vale Line (Bedford - GroupSave Rail Tickets Great rates for fam Bletchley) this Summer! ilies!

All aboard the Third off for groups of 3 - 9 adults, kids hal fprice, under 5’s th go free!

Saturday 16 Decemb

Kids and adults are all welcome on Santa’s f train on the Marston Vale Line, come and en Santa on board in his grotto

WIN! 1 of 2 UglyDolls Merchandise Packs!

For a chance to win 1 of 2 UglyDolls Merchandise packs which include: UglyDolls activity sheet, branded shoe laces, notepad, pencil case and canvas bag with special colouring pens, answer the following question: Which famous singer voices Moxy?

A) Wanda Sykes B) Kelly Clarkson C) Emma Roberts See page 13 for a clue to the answer.

UglyDolls is in cinemas nationwide Friday, August 16th 2019.

Copy the following link to watch the UglyDolls movie trailer: https://bit.ly/2FlXnEe Please send your answers and contact details to editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk.

Entry deadline: Wednesday, 14th August 2019.

Winners will receive a telephone call.

Face-painter & balloon modeller Refreshments available

Santa Special Times Vale Santa trains depart: Our New Trains are IdealMarston for Families!

Bletchley 10:01 12:01 & 14:01 ◗ Information panels on ◗ Former London Underground Bedford 10:55 12:55 & 14:55 local attractions units fully refurbished! or join at any station along the Marston Vale L ◗ USB charging points All trains have 2 carriages The Santa Special takes place on the scheduled Marston V at every seatunfortunately it is not possible to reserve seats. ◗ Dedicated space for cycles service; PLUS a piece of unique & buggies Please avoid bringing non-folding buggies as space is very piece of themed artwork on ◗ Variety of seating options each of the three trains! ◗ Fully accessible toilet

Information Line:

01234 832 645

The Marston Vale Line is the first route in the country to benefit from these exciting new trains!

Find out more at the new From Richmond to Ridgmont Exhibition at Ridgmont Station Heritage Centre – open 10:00 – 4:00 – Tuesday – Saturday.

Free entry! Exclusive souvenirs available!

10% discount for rail passengers in the Tea Room!

marstonvalecrp @marstonvalecrp

01234 832 645 www.marstonvalecommunityrail.org.uk

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

2 Families Bedfordshire July/August 2019

www.familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On for Families

STORYTELLING l EXHIBITIONS l PERFORMANCES l EVENTS

Tales for Tots

2 JUL, 9.30AM Wardown House £4, ages 0 – 4

Circles in the Sand

Snow White, Rose Red, Bear Brown

MON 8 JUL, 9.30AM, 10.45AM & 12.30PM Luton Library Theatre £5, ages 0 – 3

SAT 6 JUL, 2PM Luton Library Theatre £8, ages 4+

Recitals for Wrigglers WED 10 JUL 10AM, 11.30AM & 2PM Luton Central Library £5, ages 0 – 5

Summer Holidays

Luton’s Summer Reading Challenge SAT 13 JUL – SAT 7 SEP

The Flying Bath

SAT 13 JUL, SUN 14 JUL 11.30AM & 2.30PM Stockwood Discovery Centre £7, ages 2 – 5

The Summer Reading Challenge 2019 theme is Space Chase, an adventure inspired by the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing.

Look out for • Animal Edutainment • Out of this World storytelling with John Kirk • Comic workshop with Nigel Baines • Alien craft workshop

Felt Mice Workshop

WED 31 JUL, 7 AUG, 14 AUG, 28 AUG, 10AM & 1PM Wardown House £10, ages 8+

Tickets £3, book online at www.lutonculture.com Summer Reading Challenge is free, charges apply for special events

Summer Reading Challenge

Can you make your hair stand on end?

Have you felt the earth shake beneath your feet?

How does a tornado form?

Find out and discover more at this hands-on science exhibition.

www.lutonculture.com Box Office: 01582 878100

@WeAreLutonCulture @lutonculture

NEWS CHILDCARE

NEW! Horizon Nannies childcare service in Bedfordshire

Horizon Nannies is based in Bedfordshire and provides nannies and other childcare professionals to families in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and North London. Emma Hodson worked

extensively as a nanny for local families, worked her way around the globe for high – profile clients.

Emma founded Horizon Nannies so that she could eventually be at home with her own children and put all of her energy into

them, just as she did with the families she worked for over the years. Horizon Nannies are offering a 20% discount to all new families on their first placement fee, once the right nanny is found.

Visit www.horizonnannies.com for more information. Contact: 07544 951008 or 01234 766507 or Email: info@horizonnannies.com

Government to Help Parents Choose Apps

The Government has announced plans to help parents embrace the benefits of technology for their children.

Announcing the plans, the Education Secretary, Damian Hinds said “No parent has all of the answers. Our children are growing up in a constantly changing world and it is hard to keep up.“

“Screens can be an easy distraction for children, but harnessing the power of technology to support early communication and development means that we have another tool in our arsenal to help young kids develop those skills.”

The government’s plan is to provide reliable information about which educational apps for phones or tablets are the best or most effective. This will help parents choose from the hundreds available on the market.

The Government will be appointing a new advisory panel to assess existing apps and produce tips and guidance for all parents to help them make informed decisions about which to choose for their children.

Help Available When Choosing a Family Dog

If you are considering adding a dog to your family, this is an important decision which is best not made on a whim.

Generally, children and dogs from great bonds and friendships and dogs can offer the opportunity for children to learn great life skills such as responsibility and compassion.

But all dogs are individuals. The breed of the dog is perhaps the single most important factor you can take into account, when deciding what dog is right for your family.

To help families with this decision a Dog Breeder Decider tool has been created by pet food manufacturer Webbox. The tool matches a dog breed with your family by analysing your family’s lifestyle and preferences against the personality traits, behaviours and requirements of all dog breeds.

More info: www.webbox.co.uk/dog-breed-decider

FACES Bedford receives Queen’s Award FACES Bedford were awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service - the highest award a voluntary group can receive in the UK (often called the ‘MBE for groups’).

Volunteers at the charity offer practical and emotional support to those who need it and come from all over including parents, grand-parents, and people with experience of working with families. Volunteers also train to assist in children’s centres and take an extended course to work with families in their homes, which can be a useful step to employment or further education.

FACES Bedford support helps people facing a number of issues including: death of a loved

one, domestic abuse and finance, and many more.

The Chief Executive of FACES Bedford, said: “Our volunteers are exceptional and consistently go the extra mile to support families in Bedfordshire, and this award pays tribute to their dedication and commitment in supporting families so that they can provide a safer, happier and healthier home in which their children can thrive and reach their full potential.”

To find out more about FACES Bedford, volunteer, or to see if they can help you, visit www.facesbedford.org

New £20million Dunstable Centre now open!

Central Bedfordshire Council opened the brand – new £20.

1 million Dunstable Centre to the public on the 3rd June.

The Centre replaces the old leisure centre and library in the town with brand-new state-ofthe-art facilities.

The new building offers a crèche, café, flexible space to hire and Citizen’s Advice service, alongside a location

in the heart of town, which means that the building is all set to become a true community hub.

The centre also has a bigger and fully accessible new library which is a large, bright and airy open-plan space.

The space flows seamlessly from the main foyer and is zoned for different activities including space to relax, read or study, a children’s

zone and new facilities for teenagers. The library also offers access to computers and iPads, with free Wi-Fi. “We are so lucky to have this for our community”, “It gives you a sense of pride” and “It’s amazing” – these are just some of the reactions from the first customers walking through the doors of the brand-new Dunstable Centre.

Take a peek on social media at @letstalkcentral to see pictures and videos of the great facilities available at the Centre.

4 Families Bedfordshire July/August 2019

www.familiesonline.co.uk

NEWS CHILDCARE

Harmony at Homes Nannies

Former nanny and lifelong childcare professional, Sally Whitear, has launched a childcare and household staffing agency, Harmony at Home, in Bedfordshire.

Sally, who has been in the childcare industry for more than 20 years, bought the Bedfordshire franchise of Harmony at Home in the spring of 2019 after making the break from nannying and deciding to start her own business.

On launching her own childcare business Sally comments: “I have spent more than ten years in senior childcare management positions, and I’ve the educational qualifications

of Early Years Teacher Status and a Degree in Early Years. I’m very much looking forward to matching the right candidates with families and households across Bedfordshire, using my own understanding, having been a Nanny for several families – I know first-hand what constitutes high standards of childcare and recruitment.”

For more information on recruitment services in Bedfordshire please contact Sally on 01234 522360 / 07812 605106, email sally@harmonyathome.co.uk or visit www.harmonyathome.co.uk

Drive for More Men in Childcare

More men are to be encouraged into careers in nurseries and early years’ settings, in a new project to provide more diverse role models for children before they start school.

With men making up just 3% of early years staff in England, the project aims to break down the barriers that

prevent men entering careers in children’s early education, including the myth that men are less suited to caring roles.

The project will be run by the Fatherhood Institute, and will spearhead an innovative recruitment drive that highlights the positive roles men can play in the crucial first years of a child’s education.

It will provide practical resources like myth busters, ‘how-to’ guides and online content to support male recruitment into the profession, as well as online peer support for men already working in the sector.

More info at www.fatherhoodinstitute.org

Space Chase - 2019 Summer Reading Challenge

The Summer Reading Challenge encourages children aged 4 to 11 to read six library books during the long summer holiday.

Children's reading can decline during the summer holidays if they don't have regular access to books or encouragement to read for pleasure.

This year the challenge will focus on the theme ‘Space Chase’ - an out-of-this-world

adventure inspired by the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing.

Children are challenged to read at least six library books over the school holidays and collect rewards, such as stickers, on their way to receiving their challenge certificate and medal.

The Challenge will launch in libraries on Saturday 13 July 2019 in England and Wales.

For competitions, book recommendations and special online badges and rewards, visit www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

Free Childcare to Attend Smear Tests Mothers across the UK are being offered an hour’s free childcare so they can attend a smear test.

Childcare.co.uk, which claims to be the largest platform for parents and childcare providers in the UK has launched the initiative to encourage more women to attend a smear test to determine whether they are at risk of cervical cancer, which in 99.8% of cases is preventable with early treatment Every year in the UK, around 3,000 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer. In the UK, women are invited by the NHS to get a cervical screening from the age

of 25 to 64. However, figures show the take-up of testing of women is at a 20-year low.

While the test usually takes just five minutes, a free hour of childcare is being offered to allow for waiting times and travel.

Mothers can take up this offer by visiting: www.childcare.co.uk/news/free-childcare-for-smear-tests

Get Hands On at the Festival of Archaeology The Festival of Archaeology is a fortnight long festival which runs from 13 to 28 July 2019 and will provide opportunities for families to discover archaeology in their local area.

Events will be held across the UK at sites of archaeological and historical interest. You will be able to watch experts at work or get ‘hands-on’ by experiencing the excitement of an archaeology dig, including having a go

at geophysical and topographic surveys, or taking part in actual excavations.

The festival is co-ordinated by the Council for British Archaeology and aims to showcase the very best of archaeology for everyone.

Visit ‘Delving into Heritage Day - Monastic Heritage in Greensand Country part of the Festival of Archaeology, 16 July.

Contact team@greensandcountry.com for further information and to reserve tickets.

To find more events in or close to your area visit www.festival.archaeologyuk.org www.familiesonline.co.uk

email: editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk Tel: 07824 377175

Bedfordshire 5

PARENTING

Why It’s Important to Teach Children about Money and Top Tips to Get Started

Money. It’s a topic that some of us find difficult to talk about, especially when it comes to discussing personal finances. However, it’s important we are not silent about this topic as studies show that children are likely to grasp money management skills best when they are having fun practising with their parents. By Erik Bohjort Luckily, there are lots of easy ways to get your child started on learning the basics of financial literacy, as well as equipping them with the essential skills such as how to earn, how to save, and most importantly, how to spend responsibly.

Start Talking about Money

Openly communicating with your children about money will encourage them to develop a healthy relationship with it.

Consider involving your children in a real-life family budget discussion, allowing them to hear about the impacts that earning, saving, and spending will have on your finances.

For starters, have a transparent discussion about the budget you’ve set for a particular family activity that you want to do, and what it means for you to have to save up for it. For example, are you saving up for a family holiday?

Will you have to cut down on treats such as eating out in the weeks approaching it?

Be clear about the costs and benefits of this saving’s endeavour. This helps your children understand how small savings add up to significant goals.

Introduce Regular Pocket Money Pocket money is another great way to help your child develop financial literacy. Pocket money lets children be responsible for managing

their own money, in a safe environment.

It teaches children the essential principles of spending and saving, and the trade-offs between the two.

Consider introducing real money to your children from the age of 5 years, starting with a weekly pocket money to get them used to receiving money regularly. Then consider transitioning over to a monthly allowance at around 11 so that they learn how to stretch their budget, as they will have to later in life.

Spend Some and Save Some Our brains are hardwired to be inherently impulsive. So, encouraging your children to save some of their money for their dream purchases is an excellent way to teach them how to control their impulsivity, and be more sensible in their spending.

Gradually, they will start to understand the difference between ‘want’ and ‘need’, which helps to set a precedent for long-term financial wellbeing.

Maximise your Child’s Earning Potential Setting rewards for chores is an effective way to teach children where money comes from, and that you have to earn it.

Give your child optional chores that they can complete to earn some additional money. For example, perhaps if they empty the dishwasher,

they could get 10p on top of their regular allowance.

Encourage your children to suggest chores too. This is a great way to inspire them to think about their own earning potential. It works even better if they have a savings goal - such as ‘save up for a scooter’ - so that they can see how earning money moves them closer to their goal.

Lose the Paper Chores Charts Previously, you might have taught your kids how to manage money using chores charts stuck on the fridge and a physical piggy bank, but with cash disappearing from everyday life, it is important that kids learn how to handle digital money from the get-go. Consider using technology to simplify your pocket money and chores management. For example, rather than just handing over weekly pocket money, empower your children to learn the principles of financial literacy by saving, earning, and spending through a free pocket money app or online like Go Henry (www.gohenry.com/uk/), where you can have sight of your child’s progress and discuss it as a family.

Remember, the earlier you introduce money management skills to your child, the easier and more naturally they will grasp principles that will set them up to be responsible with money in their adult lives.

Erik Bohjort is a child psychologist and Head of Research at Gimi (www.gimitheapp.com), a free pocket money app and chores manager.

6 Families Bedfordshire July/August 2019

www.familiesonline.co.uk

EARLY YEARS

Common Toddler Behaviours: Difficulties with Sharing

By Tanith Carey

Do you sometimes wonder what goes on your child’s head when they kick up a fuss?

Do you often search for exactly the right words to calm them down?

In the following extract from a new book What’s My Child Thinking by Tanith Carey with psychologist Dr Angharad Rudkin, you will find evidence-based strategies to help you respond when toddlers refuse to share.

That’s Mine!

Scenario: Your little boy is refusing to share his favourite toy with your friend’s son at a playdate at home.

What he’s thinking: “My dinosaur belongs to me. I live here so everything here completely belongs to me and I want to be in control.”

What you're thinking: ‘This is embarrassing. What’s my friend going to think? Her son won’t want to come and play again.’

Many parents feel guilty when their toddlers don’t share. But there’s no need to worry. At this stage, it’s still too early to expect kids this age to share what they have only just discovered belongs to them.

While it’s good to start helping your child to learn to share, you will need to be patient because children don't usually understand how to initiate sharing consistently until the ages of 3 or 4 years. At toddler stage, they think that if they share something, it means they have to give their toy away permanently.

Your son is also going to be particularly territorial about his toys at home. At this age, he does have control over some things in life, but he particularly wants control of his possessions and his space when others come into it.

What to do:

Sharing Can’t be Forced Telling your son he MUST share his toys won’t teach him. It will make him more insecure that adults can take his favourite things away without taking his wants into account.

Help him Learn How Others Feel Some parents try to reach a

compromise by insisting little ones take turns with a wanted toy.

However, research has found that your toddler will learn more if you talk to him about how other child feels, and say something like ‘Joe is happier when you let him play with Mr Rex.’

Let him Keep Certain Special Things to Himself If another child’s coming to play, explain to your toddler that he or

she should only leave out toys they don’t mind others playing with. Children allowed to have a special safe place for their favourite things have been found to be more generous later on. If all else fails, take the playmates outside. Studies have found young children argue less over toys when they play outdoors because they have more to interest them and are less focussed on possessions.

What’s My Child Thinking: Practical Child Psychology for Modern Parents

by Tanith Carey with Dr Angharad Rudkin looks at how young children think and uses those insights to work out the best ways to help keep them calm and happy in more than 100 everyday situations including having when having difficulty sharing.

The book is published by DK, price £16.99.

Harpers Nursery & Forest School BLUNHAM MK44 3NX

A unique learning experience for children aged from 6 months to 5 years.

NEW SEPARATE BABY ROOM AT ACORN DAY NURSERY! We have passionate, highly qualified staff.

We are friendly, with a homely atmosphere, our large gardens offering our children a wonderful outdoor experience all year round. We have a new separate baby room, which takes babies from 3 months onwards.

TO BOOK A TOUR CALL 01582 574390 OFSTED: OUTSTANDING 2017 2 – 4 Roman Road Luton LU3 2QT E-mail: sabrina.admin@acorndaynurseryluton.co.uk Manager / Proprietor: DR C E Fisher www.familiesonline.co.uk

Ofsted rated ‘Outstanding’ in all areas Limited spaces now available for 30 hours of FUNDED childcare

www.harpersnursery.co.uk

Tel: 01767 641499

email: editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk Tel: 07824 377175

Bedfordshire 7

EDUCATION

Getting Ready to Go Back to School Claire Winter asked Families’ readers for their top tips on making the return to school as smooth as possible.

Ah… the long summer stretches before us, and before you know it, it will be time to get ready for the return to school, buy shiny new shoes, pencil cases, lunch boxes and uniform.

Be Prepared Make sure you get all the kit and uniform your child needs in good time. Rebecca’s top is: “Make an appointment at the shoe shop, because if you just show up you will be in for a very long wait!” While Vanessa says: “If your kids are going into secondary school, ask a parent with kids already there, what kit/ uniform will never get used e.g. lab coats, aprons, drama kit, as well as other additional 'uniform' that is worn e.g. type of coat or Nike Pro shorts under school skirts (Good luck finding these anywhere after mid-August!).

Shelly says: “If your children are returning to the same school, check that their winter uniform still fits them before the last week of the hols when everything has sold out already.

Especially socks and tights!

Make sure: pencil cases actually have things inside and not just pencil shavings and used tissues AND check P. E kit has been brought home, trainers are cleaned and stored safely over 5 weeks ago before the morning of the first day because you can be sure that it will not be where you left it. If you have girls, you can never have too many hair bands!”

“

Get Acquainted with New Friends Spotting some friendly faces in the playground or canteen can make all the difference when your kids start a new term or school.

“We had a picnic early summer for everyone moving up to Year 7 from all the different schools. All the parents and children got to know each other and set up a Facebook group to keep in touch and feel part of a community” says Mandy. Debbie said: “It’s great to meet up especially if you are new to the area. As someone who moved here with kids starting new schools, it was really helpful meeting parents and kids from the new school a week before they started, so they knew some friendly faces!”

Boost Independence Making sure your child can fend for themselves at school is essential. If your child is starting school for the first time, make sure they can dress themselves and start to get them used to following instructions. Cath says: “if you are sending your child to secondary school, get them to be more independent. The best thing I think I did was let Dexter have a bit more freedom over the summer - I let him cycle to a mate’s house, get the bus a couple

“

Start to Go to Bed Earlier The late summer nights, the sleepovers and summer holiday fun means the kids go to bed and wake up later. Ruth says: “They’re always exhausted when they first start back at school.

Start to pull bedtime back about a week before term starts. I find this useful to help ease everyone back into the routine.”

If your children are returning to the same school, check that their winter uniform still fits them before the last week of the hols when everything has sold out already

of times into town, go to the shop for me and order for himself in restaurants. It really built his confidence and independence, and he said he felt much more confident starting secondary school and a bit more ‘streetwise’.

Name Everything Get some reliable nametags that won’t fall off, or you can go old school like Emily and go mad with a Sharpie, “Buy a black Sharpie and a white marker and name absolutely everything, including their pants!”

Get Talking Understandably many children get anxious before they start a new school or go back to school for a new year. Make sure you reassure them and keep on talking about it. Fiona says: “Tell your children to remember that this isn't just new to you, but to everyone in your year. You're not alone.” Lizzie says give them a chance to talk about it. “Go for a walk and allow them to share what they are thinking about the September return and share that it’s okay to be nervous. You can reframe it as an adventure and get them to talk through how they’d tackle it and see if they can then apply it to going back to school.”

Mark the Last Day Ruth says, “If you can, plan a nice day out to say goodbye to the holidays. Do it maybe the week before they go back so you can have a quiet, calm day on the last day of the holidays.

Also, organise playdates towards the end so that the kids don't feel fearful about returning to the school environment.”

Do you have any back to school advice? Please share it with us on our Facebook, Twitter or our Instagram page – see page 2 for links.

8 Families Bedfordshire July/August 2019

www.familiesonline.co.uk

CLUBS & CLASSES

Clubs and Classes: Planning Ahead Pays

By Andrew Campbell

The summer holidays may seem long but they will soon be over. So it’s not too early to start thinking about what after school classes and clubs and weekend activities you may want to book for your child in September.

This is particularly important if you have a child who wants to undertake a number of activities or classes or if you have multiple children. It’s essential to work out a schedule whereby all the activities fit together neatly and you are not left rushing from place to place with too little time to spare

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Planning ahead gives you time to research all the options thoroughly, talk to providers and book into free trials and taster classes that are scheduled early in September, before the term gets into full swing. Testing out your child’s interest in a new activity by taking advantage of free trials and taster classes is definitely recommended if you want to avoid a situation where you pay for an activity in which your child swiftly loses interest.

Without prior planning, it’s easy to find yourself scrabbling around in a hurry at exactly the time when you are also preparing for your child to go back to school. There’s the chance you’ll miss out on something suitable too, as popular classes fill up quickly.

It’s also easier to get a session time that suits your family’s schedule if you are ready to book early, as well as being able to avoid travelling further to get exactly what you want.

If you want to book your child into an activity with friends, there’s likely to be some co-ordination involved with their parents, so pre-planning is beneficial.

Last but not least, you may find you can save money by taking advantage of ‘early bird’ booking discounts offered by many activity providers.

email: editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk Tel: 07824 377175

Swimming lessons from little fishes classes for babies/toddlers and preschool children teaches valuable lifesaving skills involves sub-surface swimming warm pools perfect for babies we teach structured and progressive lessons through play and having fun we have almost 20 years experience and teach over 1800 babies/children to swim each week.

Little Fishes are pleased to offer classes at various locations, for more details please contact us Tel: 01707 276734 Mobile: 07805 309102 enquiries@littlefishesswimclub.co.uk www.littlefishesswimclub.co.uk

Bedfordshire 9

 Free and Fun Activities in su

er

mm

FUN

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

Nature this Summer The summer holidays are starting and Families magazine asked the Woodland Trust for its top pick of holiday adventures to get children active outdoors and away from their screens!

Create a Fairy Garden

Use your imagination to design a fantastic fairy garden! You can do this indoors if it’s raining.

You will need: ✿ A container, such as a plastic box or old washing up bowl ✿ Earth ✿ A collection of natural materials: small stones or pebbles, sticks, moss, leaves, and perhaps some small flowering plants.

Fill your container with earth (if you’re using living plants, put some stones in the bottom for drainage). Use some leafy twigs to make trees. Build a fence or little seat with sticks. You could even make a pond by sinking a plastic cup or another small container into the earth and filling it with water. You’re bound to think of lots more ideas once you get started…

Embark upon a Woodland Challenge

Set up challenges to complete on a day out in the woods and have a competition with your family and friends. Remember to decide how many points each challenge is worth. Here are some challenge ideas:

➨ Climb a tree (make sure there’s an adult around though!) ➨ Balance on a fallen tree trunk and walk along ➨ Find three types of flower ➨ Cross a stream without getting your feet wet ➨ Identify three different tree species ➨ Find some wild animal evidence – tracks, a fox or rabbit hole, some fur caught on a bush, or even some poo!

Tip: you can use the downloadable summer flowers ID sheet at www.woodlandtrust.org. uk/naturedetectives/ for this challenge

Host a Teddy Bears’ Picnic

This is sure to be a hit with younger children, especially if they can invite some friends from nursery. Use a teddy cookie cutter to make some little bear-shaped sandwiches. Cut out some pictures of bears and hide them in the surrounding area for kids to find (just remember to take them home with you when you leave). There are lots of fun picnic ideas at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk

Try a Barefoot Walk

Let the grass tickle your toes, splash through a stream, and stomp in some squidgy mud. Did you know you have over 7,000 nerve endings in each foot, so walking barefoot is a great way to get in touch with nature? Just make sure you avoid anything sharp on the ground. Some parks and attractions have special barefoot trails, so search online for one near you. You could even try setting up a barefoot walk in your back garden.

Learn to Skim Stones

You can do this on a pond, river, or calm sea. Just be careful not to get too near the water’s edge or make sure you don’t hit any ducks – or swimmers!

Go on a Butterfly Hunt

Summer brings with it throngs of colourful butterflies. You will find a downloadable butterfly caterpillars ID sheet at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/ naturedetectives/ which you can use to hunt fluttery butterflies in woodland clearings. If it’s too wet to go outside, why not cheer yourself up with a gorgeous butterfly mobile instead?

You will need: ✿ several sticks of similar length string or wire ✿ paper – coloured, patterned, or white if you want to colour the butterflies yourself ✿ colouring pens, glitter (optional) ✿ a needle and some strong thread ➨ Cross the sticks over in the middle and fasten them with string or wire to make the frame. ➨ Fold a piece of paper in two and draw half a butterfly along the folded edge. Cut around it and open it out. Repeat for lots more butterflies. Decorate them if you wish. ➨ Attach a thread to each butterfly using the needle and tie the other end to a stick.

Hang up your mobile and admire your cloud of colourful butterflies!

➨ Find some round, flat, smooth stones ➨ Hold a stone flat between your thumb and forefinger ➨ Get down low and throw it across the water with a spinning action.

Do persevere as it might take a bit of practice.

The Woodland Trust charity runs its Nature Detectives family offering with lots of ideas to get busy and out in nature. You can post pictures on Twitter or Instagram using #NatureDetectives too or visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/naturedetectives/ for more activity ideas. You can also find your local Woodland Trust wood at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods

10 Families Bedfordshire July/August 2019

www.familiesonline.co.uk

SUMMER HOLIDAYS



Days of Fun All Summer Long

su

er

mm

FUN

Rollercoasters, zoos, museums, forts and art galleries, out there is a day out for everyone! Claire Winter has scoured the country to find fun and free days out across the UK this summer.

Here is Families’ pick of the best attractions that your family should check out. events across the UK, from giant picnics, fun in the woods to street parties with games.

Find your nearest ones at www.playday.org.uk

Visit an Iron Age Fort

Go back in time and visit Maiden Castle near Dorchester in Dorset. It is an enormous Iron Age hill fort with ditches and ramparts galore. If you take the climb to the top, you'll be rewarded with magnificent views. More details at www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/ places/maiden-castle/

Visit a Museum

In cities across the UK, there are worldrenowned museums that offer free access to exhibitions all year round. The V&A Museum of Childhood in London, the National Football Museum in Manchester and the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery are great examples.

It’s worth checking out the individual museum’s website as they often offer free or low cost activities for kids to do during the holidays. www.visitbritain.com is a great resource for finding museums across Britain.

Check out the Birds of Prey at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm

Soar with the Eagles at ‘Wings of Wonder,’ the brand new birds of prey enclosure and display show at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in

Try Tennis for Free

Game, set and match! Capitalise on Wimbledon fever and sign your child up for a free tennis lesson. The charity Tennis For Free offers free weekly coaching sessions at 86 locations in England and Scotland every week.

Go to their website at www.tennisforfree.com to book a session.

Join in with National Play Day

National Play Day takes place across the country on 7 August. Families have the chance to play at hundreds of community

From 1 to 25 August, a free version of Edinburgh's famous Fringe festival takes place with 100s of shows and performances to enjoy. There is also a special kid’s programme with events scheduled in over the summer holidays. You can check full details by visiting www.freefestival.co.uk

Go on a Lego Adventure

A visit to Legoland in Windsor is must for all Lego fans. It is expensive and busy, but the park, which has been made out of 80 million Lego bricks, is a firm favourite with the kids. New for 2019 is the Haunted House Monster Party. If you have the budget, it’s well worth signing up for Q-bot, a queuejumping device that will get you to the front of many of the queues for rides.

Tickets cost from £29 per person online.

Visit www.legoland.co.uk

Explore the Olympic Park

The Queen Elizabeth Park covers 530 acres.

It’s home to the London Stadium, the ArcelorMittal Orbit, the London Aquatics Centre and the Lee Valley VeloPark.

There are lots of free trails, parklands, waterways, and playgrounds to explore and it’s open daily. Find out more at www.queenelizabetholympicpark.co.uk

Have a Forest Adventure in the Lake District

Hunt for fairies in Hayes's Ever-changing Forest this summer. This magical forest is open to families to experience and learn about the seasons. After a day of fun, families can relax in the sensory room and enjoy a drink and snacks in the Woodland Cafe. The cost is £12 per child including activities in the forest, snacks, drinks, and a gift bag. www. hayesgardenworld.co.uk/event/ever-changingforest

Check Out New Talent in Edinburgh

Bristol, which houses over 100 animals. The new flying display treats spectators to an all-action flight show of impressive birds of prey including eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls. The Wings of Wonder birds of prey will fly twice a day in their new timetable of daily events and keeper talks. Adults from £18, children) from £13.50 and family passes from £42.75. Concessions available, and children under 2 and essential carers free. www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk

Go Stargazing

Explore the planets and stars by visiting the astronomical and space displays at Mills Observatory in Dundee, Britain's first purpose-built public observatory! Find out more at www.leisureandculturedundee.com/ culture/mills

Share your summer fun days out with us on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter - see page 2 for links. www.familiesonline.co.uk

email: editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk Tel: 07824 377175

Bedfordshire 11

SUMMER HOLIDAYS IN BEDFORDSHIRE

Summer Days Out su

er

mm

FUN

The Milton Maize Maze is back!

This year Farmer Rob’s giant 7-acre maze is celebrating Man landing on the moon 50 years ago! We open on Friday 19th July for nearly 7 weeks of Summer fun.

With all the activities waiting for you in the Field of Fun you won’t get bored! Try out our Wooden Maze or get ready for

a splash on Water Wars. Other activities include Daily Shows, Go karts, the Cobstacle Course, Duck Racing, Zip Wire & the Tractor Trailer ride around the farm.

If you get hungry call in at our BBQ or try a slice of Pizza from the new Pizza Bar in the Farm Shop.

Plus, Hot cold drink, ice creams on sale around the site.

Remember all of the attractions in the field of fun are included buy your day tickets online and save money.

See page 2 to win a Family ticket for 4 worth £46!

The Milton Maize Maze is open 7 days a week from 10 a.m. For more info visit www.themiltonmaizemaze.co.uk A Van de Graaff generator at the Interactive Science Exhibition by World Touring Exhibitions – UK Company

Interactive Science Exhibition comes to Luton A fully interactive, handson, fun, educational and entertaining science exhibition comes to Stockwood Discovery Centre (London Road, Luton, LU1 4LX) this summer – Mon, 1 July to Sun 8 September, 10am – 5pm.

Make your hair stand on end, feel the earth shake beneath your feet and walk across a bottomless chasm! See a real tornado in action, blend your face with your friend’s face and show us your

power in controlling electricity; the magic is in your hands!

Tickets to exhibition £3.50 each (10% discount for 4 or more tickets booked in one transaction).

Entry to rest of Stockwood Discovery Centre and grounds is free. Onsite café, museum displays and beautiful gardens.

Most exhibits are suitable to children aged 7+ years.

For more info & to book tickets online visit www.lutonculture.com or call 01582 878100.

Stagecoach Summer Holidays Workshop!

22 – 26 July - Stagecoach Bedford will be running 1 week of Summer School Cluedo – Who did it???

Students will experience an all singing, all dancing murder mystery extravaganza.

29 July – 2 August - Join Stagecoach Ampthill for 5 fantastic days of acting, singing and dance tuition. The course is designed for young performers to come and experience all the fun of putting on a show. Students get to present all their hard work in a performance at the end of the week with full costume and lighting.

Stagecoach workshops gives all students an amazing

experience, working with their professional team of enthusiastic and energetic teachers (all DBS checked), and promise an exciting and hugely entertaining time both for those with previous experience and for those who are entirely new to performing. Both workshops are also available to non-Stagecoach students and are very welcome!

Stagecoach offer an opportunity to make new friends and learn new skills in a very happy and fun environment.

Enrol now as places are limited and book up fast!

Complete the online booking form to register.

For more information call Stagecoach Ampthill on 01525 790 795 or Stagecoach Bedford on 01234 350 799. See page 15 for more info.

12 Families Bedfordshire July/August 2019

www.familiesonline.co.uk



Summer Sports Courses for Children and Young People This summer Bedford Council are offering a range of sports courses for children and young people aged between 3 - 18 years old. Courses include Rowing, Mini Tennis Nippers and ACERS camps, Multi Sports and RAW Tennis together with the ever popular Wet and Wild.

New for this year is Woodland Wild, a mix of bush / camp craft

er

su

SUMMER HOLIDAYS mm IN BEDFORDSHIRE FUN

HOLIDAY CAMP

with wet and wild based out at Matchstick Woods, Willington, MK40 3QF. The programme runs between 22nd July and 30th August 2019 and offer Courses for both complete beginners or for those who have had some previous experience. The provision of equipment is included within the cost and instructors are experienced and qualified.

For more info email: Mark.southam@bedford.gov.uk or call 01234 718834

Summer of Fun at Mead Open Farm From 22 July – 30 August, enjoy a spectacular summer day out at Mead Open Farm’s Summer of Fun! Experience the NEW Great British Holiday shows with hilarious Holly Bobs & Barry Bermuda (at intervals daily) & the end of day Foam Party is back for foam-tastic fun!

Explore the extended Indoor Play Barn with Veggie Tower & giant drop slides. Little daredevils will love the Sky Trail and Sky Tykes High Ropes Course, Giant’s Rock Climbing Wall, Go Karts and Topsy Turvy

Towers outdoor adventure playground.

Hop on board a Tractor & Trailer ride, see cute cows and goats, try your hand at bottle feeding older lambs, groom the Shetland ponies and stroke the rabbits in Bunny Hop! Challenge your friends at Crazy Golf, play in Shaggy’s Cove and bounce high on the Jumping Pillows! All the extra summer fun is included in admission!

Mead Open Farm is near Leighton Buzzard. Follow the brown signs from A505 or A4146.

For further information and prices call 01525 852954 or visit www.meadopenfarm.co.uk

UGLYDOLLS - The New animated family adventure based on the beloved toy brand

NEW FILM

wonderful “uglyverse” where differences are celebrated and embraced.

UGLYDOLLS features original songs by Kelly Clarkson, Janelle Monáe, Blake Shelton, Nick Jonas and Pitbull. See page 2 to enter and win 1 of 2 merchandise activity packs sponsored by The DDA Group.

In the adorably different town of Uglyville, the free-spirited Moxy (Kelly Clarkson) and her UglyDolls friends confront what it means to be different, struggle with their desire to be loved, and ultimately discover that you don’t have to be perfect to be amazing because who you truly are is what matters most.

Beloved by children, teenagers and adults alike, UglyDoll characters are distinct for their endearing “ugliness,” in a

UGLYDOLLS is in cinemas nationwide August 16th 2019.

Copy the following link to watch the UGLYDOLLS movie trailer: https://bit.ly/2FlXnEe JOHN BUNYAN MUSEUM

Bedford

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

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

more!

FUN

Children’s craft activities every Thursday in August

07508 846582 www.familiesonline.co.uk

Discover what prison life was like for Bunyan with our summer exhibition opening July 2nd Free entry ...............................................

and much, much

AT JOHN BUNYAN MUSEUM

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

SUMMER

Museum open* Tue to Sat, 11am to 4pm (last entry 3.45pm) *Closed Good Friday

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

11am - 3.30pm | drop-in £2 per child | Suitable for age 4+ accompained .........................................................................................................................................................

John Bunyan Museum & Library and Bunyan Meeting Mill Street, Bedford, MK40 3EU www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk/museum

01234 270303

email: editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk Tel: 07824 377175

Bedfordshire 13

What’s on SEE PAGE 3 FOR WHAT’S ON AT LUTON CULTURE Mon 1 Jul - Sun 14 Jul Great Brick Safari arrives at Woburn Safari Park!

MK17 9QN Life-size animals made from over a million Lego bricks on display.

Interactive safari experience (included in price of admission ticket). Park open daily:10am 5pm. Suitable for the whole family. www.woburnsafari.co.uk 5 Jul 5pm – 7 Jul 7pm Ampthill Festival 2019 Ampthill Great Park, Woburn Street, MK45 2HX ampthillfestival.com Fri Jul 12 – Sun 14 Daxtonbury Festival Airfield Road, Podington 3-day family friendly music festival. Ideal opportunity to introduce children to the joys of a small festival.

All profits to medical charities www.daxtonburyfestival.co.uk Fri 12 Jul Beatles Tribute 7pm - 10pm. Cost: £15pp.

Booking essential 01234 767037 or www.marstonvale.org/events Sat 13 - Sun 14 Jul Minecraft Building Workshop @ Wrest Park Booking required. Workshops held at different times – see website for more details.

For Minecraft fans - mixing up the ancient and modern with a second season of popular castle building workshops, curated by our expert cube construction friends at Blockbuilders. www.english-heritage.org.uk Sat 6 Jul St Joseph’s Primary School Summer Fete Gardenia Avenue, LU3 2NS 11-2pm. Fun – filled afternoon with DJ, Bar, Irish Dancing, BBQ, Pony Rides, Last Man Standing, Go Karts, Penalty Shoot Out, Hook a Duck, Hoopla, Bottle Tombola, Raffle, Face Painting, Festival Glitter, Tattoo's & Independent Stalls.

Cost: Adults - £1, Kids - Free Sun 7 Jul Melchbourne Village Feast Day The Vicarage, Knotting Road, MK44 1BQ 1pm – 5pm. Music, Cakes, bbq, tomobola, Zumba display, Children’s circus games, auction, 14 Families Bedfordshire July/August 2019

WE AIM FOR ACCURACY BUT DO CHECK WITH THE VENUE BEFORE SETTING OUT IN CASE DETAILS HAVE CHANGED AFTER PRINT. ALSO DON’T FORGET TO TELL BUISNESSES YOU SAW THEM IN FAMILIES BEDFORDSHIRE MAGAZINE

Mr. Pickles, Country Fair, photo booth, books, raffle, bric – a – brack, plants & gifts. Suitable for the whole family. Cost: Adults £1.00, Kids: Under 10 free.

Sun 7 Jul Sharnbrook Garden Party and Music Festival Sharnbrook Hotel, Park Lane, MK44 1LX 3pm -11pm. Family – friendly.

Live music & DJ's. Hog Roast and BBQ, Outdoor bar and kiosk, Alternative Holistic Therapy Stalls, Fireworks @ 10.45pm. Charity auction & raffle. In partnership with the Chris Frankish Trust to raise money and awareness for Bedfordshire's Mental Health Charities and Organisations.

Cost: £10 for a ticket, under 12s free.

Wed 10 Jul Recitals for Wrigglers @ Luton Central Library St George’s Square, LU1 2NG 10:00am, 11:30am and 2:00pm Fun, interactive & educational classical concerts. Music from different countries with the story of the Gingerbread Man. Ages 0-5 years. Cost: £5 www.lutonculture.com Wed 17 Jul Outdoor Theatre at Woburn Abbey: A Midsummer Night’s Dream MK17 9WA Have a picnic with friends and family while you enjoy a fantastic summer evening of outdoor theatre, brought to you by the Lord Chamberlains Men. www.woburnabbey.co.uk Sat 20 Jul The Wind in the Willows Bellows Mill, Harling Rd, Eaton Bray, Dunstable, LU6 1QZ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm. Closely adapted from the original and best-selling children's book by Kenneth Grahame and combined with traditional folk music Booking required. www.thisismytheatre.com Sat 20 Jul 2019 & Sun 21 Jul Big Wild Sleepout The Lodge, Potton Road, Sandy, SG19 2DL Come for a night under the stars and connect with nature as the nocturnal wildlife comes to life on the reserve. See bats and moths on Twilight walks, roast marshmallows around the fire & hear owls hooting and deer sounds around you.

Booking required. www.rspb.org.uk/ mark.brandon@rspb.org.uk

Sun 21 Jul Poppies In The Park The Embankment, MK40 3RH 10am-6pm. Free Entry.

Live music from military to rock bands, stalls, displays, funfair.

All proceeds go to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.

Sun 21 July Bedford Flea 11am – 4pm.

Eclectic range of stalls selling vintage, collectables, furniture, vinyl, antiques, art and more. www.bedpop.co.uk

HOLIDAY Mon 22 Jul - Fri 23 Aug CAMP Bedford Barracudas Activity Day Camp Bedford Girls’ School, Cardington Road, MK42 0BX 8.30am-5.30pm. Option to extend from 8am-6pm for an additional fee. Ages 4.5-14 yrs.

Offering 80+ activities including archery, motorsports, arts and crafts, sports and more! www.barracudas.co.uk Tue 23 Jul

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Pond Dipping & Bog Books Time: 9.45am,11.30am & 1.45pm £4.50 per child. Booking required.

01234 767037 or www.marstonvale.org/events Fri 26 Jul

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Bushcraft in Ampthill Park Ampthill, MK45 2GU 9am – 4:30pm. Introductory bush craft sessions in the park Ages: 12-18 years with parent/guardian.

Fire lighting, setting up camp, tarp shelters and knots, water purification, camp furniture making, campfire cooking, campfire furniture making, knife and axe work, tree recognition and lots more. Cost involved. www.ntcbushcraft.co.uk/ email: info@ntcbushcraft.co.uk Sat 27 Jul

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Love Bedford Medieval Festival 10am - 6pm. Free family entertainment, Medieval style including Falconry, Ferrets, Jugglers and Jester, Medieval band, Barber Surgeon, Circus school and more... www.lovebedford.co.uk Sat 27 Jul

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Sat 27 Jul

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Linslade Canal Festival 11am-8pm. A mix of Old English crafts and skills, modern mix of food stalls, craft exhibits and activities for the whole family to enjoy. Mixture of traditional folk and English country music & contemporary numbers from local performers. www.leightonlinslade-tc.gov.uk

Teddy Bears Picnic Enjoy crafts, a children’s entertainer, outdoor games, face-painter, a teddy bear trail and other activities in the lovely Swiss Garden. Find Henley, the garden’s very own bear, who is very tame and would love to say hello and find new bear-y friends to play with. Don’t forget your teddies, and your picnic! www.shuttleworth.org/teddybears-picnic

SUMMER Sat 27 Jul HOLIDAY EVENT

Faerie Meadows Festival The Clophill Centre, Bedfordshire MK45 4BT Dress up as a Faerie or any mystical creature you wish to be for the day. Wizards and Witches are welcome too. Enjoy a variety of magical stall holders. Crystals.

Clothes. Jewellery. Salt Lamps Crafts. Food. Amazing workshops & some fantastic bands too.

Storytelling & stilt walkers too.

All ages. Cost involved. www.faeriemeadows.com Thu 1 & 29 Aug, Fri 9 Aug, Wed 14 Aug, Tue 20 Aug Wild Challenge SUMMER HOLIDAY Summer - Minibeast EVENT Safaris The Lodge, Potton Road, Sandy Ages 5-10. Discover the bugs, beetles and beasties living in the undergrowth on the reserve.

Go bush bashing to find the hidden bugs that live in the trees around us. Booking required. www.rspb.org.uk Sat 3 Aug 12noon-4pm

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Willen Pavilion Family Fun day 28 Portland Drive, MK15 9JP Bouncy Castles, games, refreshments, animals and much more. www.willenpavilion.com SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Sun 4 Aug Family Airshow Fun family entertainment.

Kids under 16 are free! www.shuttleworth.org/ familyairshow Sun 4 Aug, Sun 25 Aug

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Guided Walk - Edible & Medicinal Plants Clophill Eco Lodges, Old Church Path, Clophill, Bedfordshire MK45 4BP 10am - 12 midday, £3 per person (dogs on leads welcome) learn about the uses of plants both historical and strange!

Each walk is a gentle stroll, not a hike. Wear appropriate footwear www.clophillecolodges.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk

Wed 7 Aug

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

MK Play Day Campbell Park, Silbury Boulevard, MK9 4AD 11am-4pm. Paddington Bear will be opening up the event with free games and activities for children. www.mkplayday.wordpress.com Fri 9 Aug

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Minibeast Safari 9.45am,11.30am & 1.45pm Cost: £4.50 per child - booking advisable 01234 767037 or www.marstonvale.org/events Sat 10 Aug

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Country Fayre and Summer Festival in support of St John's Sue Ryder, St. John’s Hospice, St. John’s Rd, Moggerhanger, MK44 3RJ 1pm-10pm. Lots of tasty treats, including an afternoon tea and BBQ, Live music, Wide range of local stall holders, Dog show.

Sat 10 Aug

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Concert in the Park Rushmere Country Park, Linslade Rd, Heath and Reach, Leighton Buzzard LU7 From 5pm. Local Music with food stalls, beer tent and fun for kids.

Cost: £12, Concessions: £8, Under 4’s FREE. www.greensandtrust.org Sun 11 Aug

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Summer Fayre and Fun Dog Show 11am – 4pm. FREE admission with arts, crafts, stalls, refreshments and fun activities for all the family out on The Meadow. www.greensandtrust.org Sun 11 Aug

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Summer Sundays: Ukie-Toones Wardown House, Museum and Gallery, LU2 7HA 2pm – 4pm. Enjoy music played by an 8 - piece ukulele band Great fun for all of the family. Find a perfect spot on the lawns and have a picnic with your family.

Outdoor event OR allocation to our inside space if bad weather.

All ages.

FREE. No booking required. www.lutonculture.com Mon 19 Aug

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Animal Edutainment Bury Park Library, 161 Dunstable Road, LU1 1BW 12:00pm - 1:00pm Leagrave Library Marsh Road, LU3 2NL: 10:00am - 11:00am Meet some creatures that have ventured into space. Kids will be given the chance to handle some of the animals supervised by a ranger, in a way that ensures both www.familiesonline.co.uk

children and animals remain calm and confident.

Age guidance: 4+ Children under 8yrs must be accompanied by an adult. *Part of Summer Reading Challenge. Cost: £3 www.lutonculture.com SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Fri 16 Aug

Seaside in the City Willen Lake, V10 Brickhill Street, MK15 0DS 9am-3pm Join the rangers for a family fun afternoon with games and activities around the lake.

Booking required for activities and sessions incl. Archery, Powerfan, Dragon Boat rides, Pedalos, Trail around lake and Splash n Play sessions.

FREE large sandpit! www.willenlake.org.uk Mon 19 Aug - Fri 23 Aug

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Pixie Door Trail Forest Centre Station Rd, MK43 0PS Join Fairy Flora and Pixie Pippin & follow the Pixie Door Trail to spell out the magic word.

Ages: 3+ Circular, surfaced 2km trail is surfaced and circular trail (buggy for younger children).

Cost £3/child. www.marstonvale.org SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Thu 22 Aug

Chapterhouse Theatre Company Presents ‘The Secret Garden’ Swiss Garden, Old Warden, SG18 9EP Alive with music, song & an array of specially designed puppet creatures. The Secret Garden promises to capture the very spirit of summer Under 5’s: FREE! www.shuttleworth.org Sat 24 Aug 2019

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Kempston Fun Day Addison Howard Park, Bedford Road, MK42 8PN 12noon – 5pm. FREE. Family day out with entertainment, arena displays, trade and charity stalls.

Refreshments, children's rides & inflatables. bedfordlions@yahoo.co.uk SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Mon 26 Aug

Car Boot Sale St Mark’s Church & Community Centre Calder Rise/Avon Drive, MK41 7UY 9am- 12pm. Cost: 50p Homemade cakes, Bacon Butties teas coffees etc. www.thisischurch.com 23 Aug at 12noon – 26 Aug at 11pm

What’s on

a celebration of vintage music, dance & fashion www.twinwoodevents.com Sat 31 Aug

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Forest Family Fun Day 10am to 4pm Dog Show, Nature Trail, Rides & Games, Grand Raffle, Kids' Crafts, Animal Encounters and loads of stalls. PLUS Paw Patrol!

01234 767037 www.marstonvale.org

Mon 26 August New Marston Vale Line (Bedford – Bletchley) Bank Holiday Service!

Jump on exciting new & fully refurbished former London Underground trains for great days out incl. The Higgins Bedford, Forest of Marston Vale, Ridgmont Station Heritage Centre & Bletchley Park!

01234 832645 www.marstonvalecommunityrail.org.uk

Mon 22 Jul – Fri 26 Jul Summer School – Stagecoach Bedford: Cluedo 10am – 4pm. 6 – 18 yr olds (Mainstages) An all singing, all dancing murder mystery extravaganza. £150/student (50% sibling discount). *Available for non – Stagecoach students.

Stagecoach.co.uk/Bedford or email: bedford@stagecoach.co.uk

Mon 29 Jul – Fri 2 Aug Summer School – Stagecoach Ampthill: Show Time!

Redborne Upper School, Flitwick Road, Bedford MK45 2NU 5 fantastic days of acting, singing and dance tuition.

7-18-year olds. £169 per child (£149 for sibling) Jr: 4-7 year olds: £149 per child (£139 for sibling) *Available for non – Stagecoach students.

01525 790 795 www.stagecoach.co.uk/ampthill or email: ampthill@stagecoach.co.uk

Mon 15 – Sat 27 July Bedfringe Events will be held at The Quarry Theatre & the Place Theatre 13th International Bedford Fringe Festival. There is a busy children’s theatre programme incl. The Splash Test Dummies & The Amazing Bubble Man. www.bedfringe.com

FAMILY SERVICES NEW Private Baby Scan Clinic in Bedfordshire: Aster Baby Clinic The Aster Baby Scan Clinic is a private pregnancy scan clinic in Bedfordshire providing consultant led private pregnancy scans, antenatal classes and reflexology. We provide reassurance with early pregnancy scans from 7 weeks to 12 weeks, the nuchal translucency scan, gender or sexing scans from 16 weeks, growth scans, wellbeing scans and 3D/4D scans from 24 to 32 weeks.

Call 01582 943 770.

Visit: www.asterbabyscan.com Email: info@asterbabyscan.com Dress Making Based in Biggleswade Lola, your personal designer offers bespoke garment making services, creating a pattern based on your body measurement.

For your wedding, birthday, prom, bridesmaids or any special occasion email: Lola: lola@tealgarments.co.uk or visit: www.tealgarments.co.uk to browse through examples of garments made by Teal Garments.

'Don't miss an issue!

Download the latest magazine and our back catalogue at issuu: www.issuu.com

Looking for childcare in Bedfordshire?

*20% sole agency discount

Since 2004, Harmony at Home has been finding the perfect nannies for families across the UK. We now have a dedicated and professional service to create ‘Harmony at Home’ for families in Bedfordshire.

SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENT

Twinwood Festival Twinwood Arena and Airfield, near Bedford, MK41 6AB Clapham email: editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk Tel: 07824 377175

Contact Sally now: T: 01234 522360 / 07812 605106 E: sally@harmonyathome.co.uk www.harmonyathome.co.uk Bedfordshire 15

ERS BEGINN FER OF SPECIAL

S 4 WEEK FREESTABLE UN TISKA D B CLU

Classes held: Every Tuesday at 5:30pm & Every Saturday at 10:15am Dunstable Leisure Centre, (Martial Arts Room) Court Drive Dunstable, LU5 4JD For more information please contact us on

07709 327274 or 01753 882012 tiska.karate@btconnect.com

www.tiska.com

ALL OUR INSTRUCTORS HAVE ENHANCED DISCLOSURE AND BARRING CERTIFICATES