Families Suffolk July - August 2015 Issue 24

The local magazine containing useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds

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SUFFOLK

Summer Holiday Fun The 2015 Summer Reading Challenge Ipswich Twilight Road Races C

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Exciting classes available in

Sudbury and surrounding areas

Contact Miss Abigail on 01787 211491 & 07580 693747 sudbury@babyballet.co.uk Babyballet Sudbury @bbSudbury

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www.babyballet.co.uk

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ISSUE 24 • July / August 2015

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Welcome

A note from the Editor There are various events, dates and occassions throughout the year that remind me how quickly time passes, and the start of the summer holidays is another one of those annual milestones.

Are we really over half way through the year already? I’m sure it was only yesterday I was waking up with a groggy head after celebrating the New Year, and I’m still not sure I have actually shed the “Christmas” weight gain, that I was determined to do by the end of January!

For children this time of year is fuelled by the excitement of (at least) 6 weeks off school, oh the fun that is going to be had! However for parents those 6 weeks can often feel like an eternity. I’ve spoken to a number of friends recently who are already worried about how they are going to fill the long summer days. We are therefore pleased to say our summer issue is packed full of ‘Summer Holiday Fun’. We can’t guarantee the weather, but we can guarantee that come rain or shine our magazine is packed full of ideas for keeping the children entertained throughout the holidays.

Once again Families Suffolk is really keen to support the Summer Reading Challenge, a fantastic initiative being run by Suffolk Libraries.

Please see page 11 for more information. Our friends at Ipswich Town & Waterfront have provided us with a great guide to Ipswich Parks, but even if you are not in Ipswich make sure you visit your local park over the summer for some free fun. And remember to stay safe in the sun, see page 7 for some great advice from the East of England Co-op.

Don’t forget you can stay up to date with local news stories and what’s on, via our website: www.familiessuffolk.co.uk.

Best Wishes

Stacey Phillips Next issue: September / October 2015 Circulation: 17,000 copies of Families Suffolk are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected retail outlets and various other distribution points throughout Suffolk.

If you would like copies for your organisation please get in touch.

Contact us Editorial content: Stacey@familiessuffolk.co.uk 07951 946736 Sales and Marketing: Lisa@familiessuffolk.co.uk 01473 788546 Events and What’s On: editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk

Printed in the uk by the Magazine Printing Company using only paper from FSC / PEFC suppliers www.agprint.co.uk

Design & Editing: Designed In house supported by Squircle Creative: 07765 241749 rob@squirclecreative.co.uk Cover image: Supplied by Families Suffolk Families Suffolk is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care preparing the magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers, the accuracy of the contents nor for any correspondences.

In this issue...

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Contents 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 - 19

Local News Clubs & Classes Our Community Family Matters Family Health Parents Place Baby & Toddler Talk Reviews Summer Reading Challenge Most Active County Ipswich Borough Council: Summer Fun Be Inspired Summer Holiday Fun The perfect choice for...

• Mobile Baskets • Birthday Parties • Group Bookings • Hand and Footprints • Personalised Gifts

CONTACT US TODAY T: 0770 604 0441 or E: ipswich@allfiredupceramics.co.uk www.allfiredupceramics.co.uk

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July - August 2015

All Fired Up offer mobile ceramic painting. We bring everything needed to your home or venue of choice. Alternatively visit the pop up studio at Suffolk Food Hall every Thursday 10am-4pm (Including school holidays)

Sponsored by

Local news

Sponsored by Birch Farm

Pippa’s Guardians: A Home from Home Welcoming an overseas student into your home can be a very rewarding experience and there are a number of ways you can become a host family. Every year, thousands of secondary school age overseas students are educated at independent schools across the UK. When their school closes for half term holidays and exeat weekends throughout the year, they need a great host family who will provide a home away from home.

Pippa’s Guardians has been providing high quality Guardianship services to international students for over 17 years. A family run company, they understand the value of a good home and how a host family can positively impact on a student’s wellbeing. Pippa’s Guardians know their students well and match them with well-suited families.

Where Does It Come From?

Could you be a host family?

At Where Does It Come From? They are passionate about creating gorgeous clothes! Not only do they think A LOT about the design and the quality, but they also ensure that they have only positive effects on the people who make our clothes and on the environment too.

Their strapline is ‘Cool Clothes that Tell Tales’ because customers can find out the creation story of anything they buy – right back to the fields where the cotton grew - by keying in a code on their label into their website.

Founded by Ipswich Mum of two Jo Salter, the brand launched in June 2014 with a range of funky handwoven denim clothes for kids.

At Christmas they added block-printed ladies scarves (great as gifts!) and this summer they have gone organic with a range of kids’ shirts created from hand-woven, organic cotton and block-printed with tigers, elephants, tortoises or ants. All these ranges are available on their website www.wheredoesitcomefrom.co.uk. You can also ‘like’ them on Facebook or follow on Twitter for regular update

Little Learners Nursery Little Learners Nursery in South East Ipswich is delighted to announce that it is now offering care for children from 3 months.

Parents or Carers looking for childcare for babies will find a new warm, secure and nurturing baby area which is led by an experienced Baby specialist. Focussed on the needs of each individual child, it offers many stimulating baby activities and has regular trips and play outside. Rated OUTSTANDING in all areas in a recent Ofsted report, the Nursery is open all year round from 8am – 6pm for children from 3 months – 5 years. For more information visit: www.littlelearnersipswich.co.uk or call: 01473 725454.

The families they look for are welcoming and interested in other cultures. Having children of similar ages helps (most students are aged between 14 and 19) but isn’t the most important thing; in fact they do have several successful host families who have quite young children or children away at University or some that are retired with grown-up children. Internet access is very important and each student will need their own bedroom with a desk or alternatively somewhere quiet to settle down to homework. Being part of a family and experiencing day to day family life enhances students’ study and undoubtedly plays a part in improving their English language skills.

The advantages to being a host family As well as receiving a generous payment, there are many other advantages in being a host family. It is a great opportunity to introduce your family to other cultures and languages. Sharing your traditions and family life with an overseas student and knowing that you are helping them during their time in the UK is very gratifying.

Long term friendships often develop and many host families keep in touch with the students and their families once they are back home.

Pippa’s Guardians are very keen to find families locally and particularly those based in towns where older students are able to meet up with friends or take trains to London for day trips. Their students are currently based at schools in Langley, Woodbridge, Ipswich and Greshams so please do spread the word if you know anyone who might be interested in or near these areas.

For further information contact: claudia@pippasguardians.co.uk.

Interested in becoming a Host Family for an International Student at a Boarding School?

Occasion weekendal and hal s terms on f ly

Jo Jingles franchise for sale Would you like a fun career which fits around your family? Then why not consider investing in the Jo Jingles Ipswich franchise. You need to be fun loving, outgoing and prepared to throw yourself into the role of encouraging children to get involved and gain as much out of their Jo Jingles sessions as possible.

For more information please contact Mini on 01473 652152. @familiessuffolk

• Do you want to earn with your spare room?

• Learn about other cultures?

• Support young students?

• It doesn’t matter what age you are: Our host families range from couples with young children to retired grandparents.

For further information: Tel: 07766 346 513 or Email: claudia@pippasguardians.co.uk www.pippasguardians.co.uk

Payment | Companionship | New culture | Friendship

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Sponsored by

Clubs & Classes An overview of some of the best local clubs & classes available for the whole family to enjoy...

Puddle Ducks Do you have a baby, toddler or pre-school age child that you would like to start swimming with? Are you looking for classes over August?

Puddle Ducks are running a mini 3 week term in August on Tuesdays and Fridays at our toasty warm pool in Levington. Class numbers are limited so please do get in touch if you would like to book in.

Although fun is at their heart, Puddle Ducks classes are about much more than this. The classes revolve around bonding and play where children don’t realise they’re learning to swim and are acquiring skills that could save their lives. Classes last 30 minutes and provide that perfect opportunity to spend time with your child in the water.

New classes are regularly added so please check their website www.puddleducks.com/suffolk to see a list of up to date classes.

The next full term will begin in September and they are taking bookings now. Please contact them for further details on suffolk@puddleducks.com.

Mama Wellness Mama Wellness expert Nina Parnham has been running two popular water based exercise classes at the Holiday Inn for almost 8 years. In response to popular demand Nina will be

launching a further two classes on the Waterfront in July.

Aqua Blast is designed for participants who want a fun and energetic workout to help tone and improve their body shape, manage their weight and boost their fitness levels.

Aqua Bump is designed to improve all round fitness by incorporating specific aerobic, muscular, and flexibility work in a safe environment.

This gives women the chance to recover better from the birth, lose any baby weight they may have gained, and aim to be strong enough to carry around all the baby paraphernalia without back and shoulder pain.

Baby also benefits from exercise and will feel good from the endorphins pumping around your blood and is shown to become fitter too when the mother works out, a good reason for mummy-to-be time.

To find our more visit: www.mamawellness.co.uk.

Learn Play Grow Learn Play Grow is an effective multi-sports programme, specifically designed for 2-6 year olds. It will take your children on a new journey, a completely

exclusive way to encourage your children to enjoy sports using stories and Learn Play Grow characters. Learn Play Grow is now being taught in pre-schools, nurseries and runs after school clubs in a network of primary schools. Applying LPG into your pre-school curriculum will have endless benefits. So if you either wish to find out where you can take your young children from September to enjoy a Learn Play Grow class or wish to find out how your school or pre-school can offer this programme from the start of the Autumn term please visit: www.learnplaygrow.co.uk

Lazy Daisy The Daisy Foundation is committed to providing all families with a supportive community during pregnancy and early parenthood.

The county of Suffolk has such a long history of agriculture and they wanted to ensure that they embraced the farming heritage so they are now proudly working in partnership with Easton Farm Park near Framlingham and The Suffolk Food Hall in Wherstead.

The Daisy Foundation hosts a wide range of baby classes suitable for babies from birth to around the age of 2 ½. Each class includes age appropriate education, sensorial development, music, movement, baby yoga and massage so whatever your child’s stage of development you know how to

support their journey to their next milestone. On a Monday they host classes at both Easton Farm Park (free entry for class members) and The Suffolk Food Hall. Classes are available at other venues on other days of the week. For more information please contact Jo via 07944 070 362 or jo-cresdee@ thedaisyfoundation.com

Babyballet babyballet® classes are now available in Sudbury, Bury St Edmunds & Ipswich! They are an award-winning pre-school dance concept for girls & boys. babyballet® dance classes allow babies, toddlers & young children to enjoy the physical & social benefits of ballet, song & dance in a safe, caring, positive and informal environment. With a real focus on learning through play, the unique babyballet® syllabus offers four key stages of ballet where every child can build their confidence & social skills, learning manners, discipline & respect while developing their basic ballet technique, coordination, musicality, balance, posture & rhythm. Give your child the chance to dance at your local babyballet® class where there’s always a warm & friendly welcome.

Classes must be booked in advance; a three week trial is £15.

For more information call Miss Abigail on 07580693747 or email: sudbury@babyballet.co.uk

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July - August 2015

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Our Community

Ipswich Twilight Road Races First-ever Ipswich Twilight Road Races in Ipswich town centre on Friday, August 14.

Runners and fundraisers urged to apply for 5k and 10k races Amateur runners in Ipswich and Suffolk are being urged to come forward and enter the inaugural Ipswich Twilight Road Races to compete in either a star-studded 5k road race or a mass participation 10k road race. Participants will start in Rope Walk outside Suffolk New College, run past landmarks including Ipswich Town’s Portman Road stadium, Tower Ramparts and the Buttermarket before finishing at the college.

Aimed at anyone who enjoys running The races, sponsored by Ipswich Building Society, are aimed for anyone who enjoys

running, from seasoned athletes looking to break a personal best to those new to running and hoping to complete their first-ever 10k race. The night of racing takes place on Friday, August 14, and a variety of cash prizes are up for grabs. It is hoped the evening of road races will attract hundreds of runners and spectators lining the street.

Race director Carl Ashton, of the Ipswich JAFFA Running Club, one of the organisers, said: “In running terms this will most definitely put us on the map.

This race will have more elite runners than any other race in the East of England and we think we have got the formula

right. If we can get the crowds and spectators lining the streets, then it will be great. If you feel you can’t get involved, please bring out the family and come and watch and support it – it will be fantastic. By linking the event to the Ipswich Maritime Festival weekend celebrations and the uniqueness of the twilight aspect, we expect this race to become a popular event in the future.”

Running is becoming a “huge sport” in the Ipswich area, pointing out the weekly Saturday morning parkrun initiative broke the 1,000 participant barrier last month.

Paul Winter, Chief Executive of the Ipswich Building Society, said: “As a keen runner myself, I’m proud and excited that we are sponsoring Ipswich’s new Twilight run. “I’ll be doing my best to try and qualify for the fast 5k and beat the sunset.”

The races and how to apply There will be two road races during the Ipswich Twilight Road Races. The first race is the 5km road race starting at 7pm.

The criteria is: men must have achieved a finishing time of 20 minutes or under in a 5km race and women must have achieved a finishing time of 22 minutes or under in a 5km race. The qualifying race must have been run since January 1, 2014 and run under UKA rules on an accurately measured course or track.

Please note parkrun events do not count.

It costs £10 for affiliated club runners and £12 for non-affiliated participants. The first man and woman past the finishing line will each receive £250, while £175 and £100 will be given to the men and women finishing second and third respectively. Cash prizes are also available to those aged over 35 and 40 and affiliated teams.

The second race, the ‘Twilight 10km’, entry is open to people of all abilities. It costs £15 for affiliated club runners and £17 for nonaffiliated participants.

People can apply for either race now. To do so, visit http:// events.ipswichjaffa.org.uk/twilight.

Ipswich Building Society mascot Pound the Hound prepares for the Twilight Races.

People taking part in either race can fundraise for any charity if they wish to, but all runners will be asked to raise cash for chosen charity Emmaus Ipswich, which provides work experience to people who are unemployed, homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

For more about the charity, email hello@emmausipswich.org.

Exclusive offer for readers of Families Suffolk Magazine Have you got your GenR8 card yet? Join today and enjoy repeatable discounts of up to 50% off with over 85 independent businesses in and around Ipswich! Use promotional code ‘FAMILIES’ on your sign up form to receive 33% off annual membership (Usually £15 – Now just £9.99!) Visit: genr8card.com for more information. Offer ends 31/08/2015” @familiessuffolk

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Family matters

In the summer time…

Understanding the Law

The long summer holidays are looming and many of us are working out how to keep our school-age children occupied for the six-week break.

One thing we’ll all be hoping to avoid is a trip to A&E because of a fall or accident! But what if your child does break their arm at the local park, or trips over a rug and breaks their two front adult teeth at school before term ends? What would you think? Would you take legal action if the accident may have been someone else’s fault or instead remain uncertain as to your course of action? In this article we’re going to look at personal injury cases when they affect children and explain how things work.

Personal Injury Claims Personal injury cases are often complex and emotional and we don’t always have the full picture at the time of the accident. In most PI cases, a claim relating to the accident can be made on behalf of a child at any time before their 18th birthday; as an adult, they can then make a claim at any time before their 21st birthday.

Get some advice Personal injury cases can be emotionally difficult and having sound, individual advice from someone you trust can make all the difference to your experience of the whole process. There is a tendency to think that the large claim companies who advertise on TV are the best way to go but we would always recommend that you find a reputable, local solicitor who is able to handle your case. They will treat you as an individual rather than another number to be dealt with as quickly as possible; with children’s cases, that is often not in their best interests because the full implications of an injury may not be immediately obvious.

Compensation recovered on behalf of a child is usually paid into Court and invested on their behalf until they reach 18. Claims for even relatively low levels of compensation, on behalf of say a three or fouryear old, could be a valuable nest-egg for them when they turn 18 and apply for the release of funds.

Stevan Stratton is a specialist family lawyer able to offer advice on a wide range of family law issues. Margary + Miller Solicitors is a long established business providing professional legal services throughout Suffolk and beyond. For more information please visit: www.margary-miller.co.uk.

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July - August 2015

We’re going to consider three different scenarios to help you understand the law as it currently stands. As with any legal issue, each person’s situation is different from someone else’s, so if you have any concerns about anything you read here, you are strongly advised to seek legal advice, with an initial consultation provided at no charge. Child claims can be generally divided into three common areas: lack of supervision – often against schools and clubs; defective equipment or design, where this is inherent in the design or equipment itself; and poor maintenance of an area or equipment.

Scenario A Lucy and Charlie Brown are at the local play park. Charlie climbs and subsequently falls off the climbing frame, breaking his arm.

Can he make a claim for the injury?

Lucy notices the ground beneath the climbing frame isn’t as soft and bouncy as it is below the other play areas.

If the climbing frame is suitable, properly maintained, in good working order and the ground area around it is of a reasonable condition, then this may have been a straight forward accident.

If, however, the ground surface was not properly maintained to a suitable and reasonably safe standard, it is possible that Charlie could bring a claim against the owners of the play park. Legal advice and representation would assist in finding out whether or not the ground was adequately maintained.

Scenario B At gymnastics, Lucy is using brand new monkey bars. She is not used to them and slips, banging her head and scraping her face as she falls.

Can she make a claim for her injury?

If the equipment was suitable, safe and Lucy was properly supervised, having been given correct instructions about using the new equipment, then there are probably no grounds for a claim. If, however, the equipment was inappropriate for her age group or not properly maintained, or if Lucy was instructed to use the bars without any prior guidance or instruction, then a claim might be possible. An investigation into the equipment purchase and level of supervision provided may lead to evidence supporting further legal action.

Scenario C Charlie and Lucy have a brand new swing ball, bought from a reputable toy company, to play with in their garden. It is assembled correctly and while playing with it for the first time, the string becomes detached from the pole and sends the ball flying into Charlie’s face, hitting his eye and causing considerable pain.

Does Charlie have a claim?

Charlie would have a good case for arguing that the equipment was defective. It is possible that he can claim on the grounds that the equipment was poorly manufactured and/or inherently dangerous, especially if he learns that other children have been hurt in a similar way.

Family Health

Stay safe in the sun With many events and activities taking place in the great outdoors this summer, make sure you’re well prepared to keep you and your family safe in the sun.

Making sure you have enough sunscreen for the whole family is really important. One application a day simply isn’t enough – even if it’s waterproof. Check the label to find out how long your sunscreen lasts, but expect to top up several times a day.

Younger, sensitive skin needs extra protection, so ensure you pick a high factor to steer clear of any nasty burns. For grown-ups, always choose a sun cream with a protection factor of at least 15, and opt for a range of factors which protect against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Don’t forget sunscreen doesn’t last forever. It may look and smell the same, but if you’ve pulled out that bottle from the back of the cupboard, chances are it’s out of date. Most sunscreens only have a shelf life of two to three years and may not provide sufficient protection after that.

Protecting your eyes is also essential. This summer, pop to your local East of England Co-op Opticians where you’ll find a great range of prescription and non-prescription sunglasses. If you or your family wear prescription glasses, don’t forget to ask about our new lens coating which offers 100% UV protection – it’s currently free on all children’s glasses and has the added benefit of being anti-reflective, scratch resistant, dirt and water repellent.

Free UV filter on all children’s glasses

As well as sunscreen make sure to take other forms of sun protection such as hats, t-shirts, beach dresses and sunglasses to give your skin a much-needed break from UV rays, particularly when the sun is at its strongest between 11am and 3pm.

Although we’ll all do our best to make sure we’re protected against harmful rays this summer, sometimes it might not be enough. Make sure you’re prepared for sunburn by carrying a bottle of soothing after sun. Products that contain aloe vera are particularly effective, and combined with paracetamol, will reduce pain and inflammation.

For further advice and brighter prices on sun protection, pop to your local East of England Co-op Pharmacy.

Find your nearest East of England Co-op Pharmacy

Protect

8 Cox Lane, Ipswich.

01473 253464

19 Meredith Road, Ipswich.

01473 742121

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01473 743801

310 Sheldrake Drive, Ipswich.

01473 683695

350 Nacton Road, Ipswich.

01473 728407

Combs Lane, Stowmarket.

01449 770761

36 Carr Street Ipswich 01473 226009

189 Hamilton Road, Felixstowe.

01394 282325

Incorporating Martin J. Rivett 172 London Road South Lowestoft 01502 500126

7 High Street, Saxmundham.

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the sunshine in your life Co-op Opticians 181 Hamilton Road Felixstowe 01394 277630

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Parents Place

Mum in business Your name: Sandy Page Name, location & nature of your business: iSwim Ltd, Clopton. ASA swim school.

How long has your business been running & the reason why you started your own business? I have been running the business for 18 months after a chance opportunity came up to enter a partnership with 2 other swimming teachers who all had entirely different skills to bring into the business. Before children I worked for several years managing the homelessness & housing team of a local authority which was great but didn’t lend itself to spending lots of time with my children now 5 & 7. I had worked as a swimming teacher previously & had also had the experience of setting up a small sports coaching business called Nimble Nippers with another local mum which has been running for 4 years now teaching a variety of sports to little ones. Despite the sports coaching business being really small it gave me the confidence to jump at the chance to take on the swimming pool & build something a little bigger! I am thrilled the business has grown, we now have over 400 children a week come to us to learn what is such an essential skill.

What do you enjoy about running your own business? The customers!

Big & small we have such a range of people of all ages use the pool we get to meet some really amazing people. There is nothing more satisfying than seeing a child gain confidence & reach a stage where they are safe in the water. It is frightening that drowning is still a leading cause of death in children so being able to help get children safe and more aware is brilliant. I have such a lot of fun teaching, the children are fantastic & always make me smile, in the summers holidays we get to teach lots of fun things too such as snorkelling, diving & Scuba as well as spend afternoons building rafts at Swimcamps. The summer is always busy but is so much fun I don’t always want to leave!

Is there anything you don’t enjoy about running your own business?

I don’t like having to chase people for money, I’m a mum too & know how hard it is to pay for all the clubs, trips, activities that fill the week so I really hate having to chase money. I suppose the only downside is that you are never off duty, partly that is the enjoyment for me I like being able to sort out lessons for people on the playground or when I meet them at children’s parties.

What was the best piece of advice you were ever given? My uncle once said to me that the world was made up of people that say ‘I could be’ & people that say ‘I am, or I can’ he was a little tipsy at the time but I still wanted to be the later. I used to spend too much time worrying about the risks but now with 2 businesses under my belt I don’t think I’d look back What does the future hold for your business? I’m hoping for great things! We are busier this year than ever before, I would like to expand the other activities we already offer over the summer such as the snorkelling, diving, lifesaving etc into more regular sessions. I also hope to expand the business to include water safety programmes for schools which are essential for the safety of our local children. We have so many older children who come to us unable to swim and the short sessions they have with school are just not enough to get them to a safe point. I would like to form partnerships with local schools to bridge the gap for those older ones who haven’t had the means or opportunity to learn to swim.

How do you fit your business around family life? I have a supportive family & great friends (thank you Grundisburgh mums) who are always helping me out while I’m teaching, but mainly it fits in quite well. In summer holidays the boys spend a lot of time at the pool but are happy to join in with snorkelling / diving & swimcamps so they get to have fun and I get the day with them & several of their friends which is ideal.

What advice would you give to any parents considering starting up their own business? Do your research and be decisive, it’s important to know your business and make sure whatever you offer you can be as flexible as possible. With our lessons we have to charge for a 6/7 week term as our costs stay the same whether a child attends or not. It is always hard on parents if they miss classes so we try and be flexible & if possible offer the chance to make up the lesson another day, that flexibility helps our customers out on occasion. A little goes a long way.

To find out more about iSwim visit www.iswim.biz. or call: 01473 277085.

Visit Glass & Craft at Kersey Mill, Hadleigh, IP7 6DP | glassandcraft.co.uk | 01473 517 404

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March - April 2015

Baby & Toddler Talk

Sponsored by The Daisy Foundation

Dogs Bumps Babies & Beyond

Dogs Bumps Babies & Beyond support expectant families and families with young children in and around Suffolk that have a family dog.

My name is Gemma Abbott & I am married to David, we have two wonderful children Joshua (3) & Alara (2), as well as two great family dogs Mocha & Axel. Whilst at University (studying for a BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour Science) & after graduating in 2006, I was employed by a Veterinary Group for almost 10 years, this gave me the opportunity to help lots of clients with their pets, predominantly dogs with training issues & problem behaviours, as well as running a variety of training classes including Puppy, Basic, Intermediate, Advanced & Agility.

Providing support & education for families with dogs Starting a family it became clear to me that my family life/work balance needed to change. I wanted to work in a particular niche that I feel very passionate about, but also where I believe there is a need for this specific support & education for families with dogs, hence my decision to

establish Dogs Bumps Babies & Beyond. ‘Helping to prepare your dog for family life’,

About Our Business DBBB supports expectant families and families with young children in and around Suffolk that have a family dog. Whether families are expecting their first baby, have a baby or toddler already, or even have another baby on the way DBBB is here to help set them and their dog up for success. With the ever-changing dynamics of family life as a newborn arrives and as they grow into a toddler, every developmental stage can create changes for the dog. DBBB can help families understand what these changes might mean for their dog, and how they can keep them as a safe and valued family member.

Our Services DBBB offers a range of services including: • International Family Paws® Parent Education Programs: Dogs & Storks® & Dogs & Toddlers™ as both Workshops & Home Visits.

• Practical Training Follow Up Home Visits • Problem Behaviour Home Visits (within the realms of Baby/ Toddler & Dog Dynamics)

realistic expectations are all important for babies/toddlers/ children developing safe lasting bonds with their family dog.

Whether families may have any concerns about their dog or not, there is so much they can do to promote enjoyment of family life for their four-legged family members. Mutual respect, safe inclusion activities, active aware supervision, daily positive encounters, understanding canine communication and

To find out more If you would like to find out more about DBBB you can get in touch with Gemma Email: gemma@dbbb.co.uk Call: 07572593582 Visit: www.dbbb.co.uk www.facebook.com/ dogsbumpsbabiesandbeyond

OUTSTANDING NURSERY CARE 0 —5 YEARS South East Ipswich

Highly Qualified & friendly Staff Team, Caring & Spacious Nursery Rooms, Large dedicated outdoor area

Water Based Exercise Classes for Ladies of all Fitness Abilities Aqua Bump: For Pregnant Ladies and New Mothers 7pm on Monday & Wednesday

Open 8am—6pm Mon—Fri , 50 weeks of the year

Aqua Blast: For Ladies who are wanting to get Fit and Fabulous!

8pm on Monday & 7.45pm on Wednesday

www.littlelearnersipswich.co.uk Call 01473 725454 E: littlelearners225@hotmail.co.uk

Venues: Monday classes are held @ Cardinal Lofts, The Waterfront Wednesday classes are held @ the Holiday Inn, London Road

@familiessuffolk

/FamiliesSuffolk

£5 per session.

No booking required, arrive in good time to secure your place

Check us out:

www.mamawellness.co.uk

www.facebook.com/ wateraerobicsaquabumpipswich www.twitter.com/justninalou22

www.familiessuffolk.co.uk

01473 788546

9

Reviews

Independent Business Profile How did you find out about All Fired Up and what they offer?

I discovered ‘All Fired Up’ on a day out with a group of friends & our children. The kids were all very keen to have a go & each one chose & painted a plate, cup or small ceramic model. They had a lovely time and it was wonderful to see them all being so creative, Which All Fired Up services have you experienced? As well as the local event, my son has attended a birthday party run by All Fired Up. He had a lovely time & was so happy with the painted model (a football) that he got to keep. All Fired Up also ran a stall at our School Summer fete which all the children really enjoyed it.

My sons are 7 & 10 & both really

enjoyed painting ceramics.

They love selecting the item, choosing their colours and then doing the painting and it’s great for them to have something to keep as a souvenir – better than party bags! We’ve also created gifts for grandparents who love displaying their grandchildren’s skills. They can make ideal Christmas and Birthday presents for family members.

Was it good value for money?

All Fired Up is great value for money – the kids have fun in a creative way AND they get to keep what they have created. Plus everything is unique so if you are giving a creation as a gift, the recipient certainly won’t get the same thing from someone else!

Did you visit All Fired Up at one of the regular venues or did

Customer Review: Where Does It Come From?

How did you find out about Where Does It Come From website and the products they offer? A parent from school recommended Where Does It Come From to me. I’d never heard of anything like it before and I was intrigued to see how it works.

Was the website easy to navigate? Yes, very easy to navigate.

I was impressed with how much information there was about the processes and what goes into making each garment.

What was it about the products that you liked? The first thing that attracted me was being able to trace the garment – seeing the whole process from plant to jeans! The different style and colours of jeans really appealed to me. And they have an adjustable waist – how could I resist!

Did they offer good value for money? The price reflects what you’re getting. With so much going into the making of the jeans, they are hand-spun, hand-woven & hand-dyed, the price is very reasonable.

10

March - April 2015

Sponsored by

Sponsored by GenR8 you use the mobile service?

Our first visit was one of the regular venues but we have also been to a party and found them at a school fete. It’s great that All Fired Up now provides a mobile service - I often see their van driving around Ipswich and the surrounding area. I understand that they will now even deliver a box full of kit (paints, ceramics & brushes etc.) to you at home so that you can create something in your own time. They will then collect what you’ve painted & fire it in the kiln for you. This will definitely be something to do with the kids over the summer holidays!

What did you enjoy most about your All Fired Up experience? The best part for me was seeing the children concentrating so hard & working

to produce their design & then so proud of their ceramic when it came back after being fired (about a week later).

Was there anything you didn’t enjoy? Not really, it was a positive experience all round.

Would you recommend All Fired Up to others?

Definitely – it’s a great way to entertain the children and for them to create something that they are proud of. I’d also say that if you are thinking of unique, personal gifts for grandparents or other family members then you can’t go wrong with All Fired Up! www.allfiredupceramics.co.uk

How did you find the ordering and delivery process? It was all straight forward, they arrived really quickly and beautifully packaged.

Were you pleased with your purchase? I was impressed with them immediately, super soft and such a fab colour. I couldn’t wait for my son to try them on! The legs are nice and long so you can turn them up, making them last a lot longer than normal trousers.

The jeans had a code on the label which you put into the website to trace where and how they were made – it was so lovely to read it to my son. It certainly made me open my eyes to a world of clothing I hadn’t thought about before! It was so special to talk to my son about choosing ethically made and kind to the environment choices – which I think is really important.

Have the clothes worn/washed well and withstood the daily trials of clothes being worn by children? They wash beautifully.

I thought the colour may fade a little, but they haven’t! They are the ‘go to’ jeans – perfect for my adventurous son.

Would you recommend this website and their products? Yes, definitely!

The Summer Reading Challenge

Feature

Suffolk Libraries has revealed the theme of this year’s Summer Reading Challenge The summer reading challenge is a major literacy campaign which encourages 4-11 year olds to keep reading throughout the summer holidays. Last year over 800,000 children across the country took part and it’s also a great way of introducing them to their local library.

Record Breakers It’s organised by the Reading Agency and run in libraries.

This year the theme is ‘Record Breakers’ and Suffolk Libraries is hoping this year’s campaign will itself break records. For the last two years the county has seen increasing numbers of children taking part every year with a record-breaking 7,800 in 2013 and then a new record of over 8,000 in 2014.

Simple & Fun The idea behind the summer reading challenge is simple and fun. Children are encouraged to read six or more library books of their choice during the summer holidays with collectable incentives and rewards, plus a certificate, or medal for

every child who completes the Challenge. Children can sign up at their local library at the start of the summer holidays – it’s absolutely free.

A parent from Suffolk whose children took part last year said: “This challenge has definitely made a difference to my girls’ reading. They can’t wait to get to the library every few days.

They wouldn’t have picked up a book this holiday if it wasn’t for the challenge! Now I think they will carry on even after it’s ended. So thank you very much.

At last my children are enjoying books!”

“Reading can be a passion” Alison Wheeler, General Manager of Suffolk Libraries, said: “The Summer Reading Challenge has been a huge success in Suffolk and seems to become more popular every year. Reading can be a passion for everyone and it’s especially important for children to develop a love of reading from an early age.”

Challenge Young Readers

Every year there is a new theme and this year the Summer Reading Challenge has teamed up with Guinness World Records - the global authority in record-breaking achievements and publisher of the annual Guinness World Records ™book – to establish a ‘Record Breakers’ themed Challenge. Record Breakers brings together fact and fiction, challenging young readers to explore astonishing real-life achievements and world records.

Collecting stickers as they go, young readers will discover the weird, wonderful and wacky records from around the world in six different categories: Cool Tech, Way to Go!, The Big Stuff, Animal Magic, People Power and Action! Adventure!

People can get updates and more information about the Summer Reading Challenge via www.suffolklibraries.co.uk or ask at their local library.

kidzone mascot themed party packages could include any of the following: * KIDS DISCO * BOUNCY CASTLES * FACE PAINTING * * CRAFT ACTIVITIES * PARTY GAMES * * MASCOT CHARACTER APPEARENCES * You just choose the theme and package and kidzone will supply a fun packed party For further information contact Natasha 07756 535059 or Shaun 07545 342426 you can also find kidzone mascots on facebook @familiessuffolk

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www.familiessuffolk.co.uk

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Suffolk’S year of cycling

March 2015- February 2016 is officially SuFFolk’S year oF cycling and to celebrate there are many exciting cycling events in the county this summer to inspire you to get on your bike IpswIch cyclIng weekend 22-23rd August

crAfted clAssIque sAturdAy 22 August

Whether you’re a regular on the sportive scene, looking to take on your first cycling challenge, or just want a day out with the family, ipswich cycling Weekend 2015, powered by crafted, has something for everyone.

coming to the historic ipswich Waterfront this august, it’s a summer celebration of cycling with high-quality events over two fantastic days.

The sportive will return for its second year with a brand new shorter 55km route designed especially for those entering the sportive scene, as well as subtle revisions to 2014’s popular 100km and 100mile courses through the picturesque Suffolk countryside.last year, 500 cyclists took part in the event, which starts from the

stunning ipswich harbour, with its unique maritime architecture. you can savour a complimentary coffee on the start line, before taking in fabulous views in this timed event. To reward your efforts, delicious refreshments and a cooling local beer will await you on the Waterfront upon your return. registrations are open now at www.ipswichcyclingweekend.co.uk

skyrIde

of free things to do and try out on the day, including the ‘Tricks & Tunes’ area and the friendly Bike cafe, there will be a real festival atmosphere. another fantastic traffic-free bike ride in ipswich register for Sky ride ipswich and you’ll be entitled this august! to a free expert bike check (worth £14.99) at Join thousands of other cyclists and take to the streets for a fantastic traffic-free bike ride through Halfords. you’ll also be able to collect a free Sky ride reflective bib on the day. the town. get a different perspective on ipswich register now at from two wheels, on a special route passing www.ipswichcyclingweekend.co.uk some of its most iconic landmarks. With loads

sundAy 23rd August

tour of BrItAIn women on wheels

Bury st edmunds on sundAy 5th July And sudBury on sundAy 20th septemBer

cycle Suffolk presents Women on Wheels, an opportunity for all women and girls to get on their bikes to take on a challenge and have some fun!

Women on Wheels events are mass participation female only rides, usually raising money for a local charity, that put a strong focus on the fun, friendly and inclusive aspects of cycling. They are very much aimed at non-cyclists and existing cyclists alike, with routes of an achievable distance, and are open to all ages, from 8 to 80.

There are two WoW events already announced and will take place in Bury St edmunds on Sunday 5th July 2015 and Sudbury on Sunday 20th September.

The events are being organised by abbeycroft leisure and South Suffolk leisure, in partnership with St nicholas Hospice. Join the WoW Bury St edmunds and WoW Sudbury Facebook groups to get involved in the conversation around your WoW event.

sAturdAy 12 septemBer 2015 stAge 7: fAkenhAm to IpswIch.

The aviva Tour of Britain will return to east anglia for the first time since 2012, with Suffolk hosting a first ever stage finish.

Stage Seven, on Saturday 12th September, will see British cycling’s premier road cycling event return to norfolk and Suffolk for the first time since both counties hosted the grand Depart.

Passing through Thetford Forest on its way to Bury St edmunds the route will take in Stowmarket, needham Market, Hadleigh and east Bergholt, before racing under the orwell Bridge and into ipswich town centre for the finish.

Further details of Stage Seven, including ordnance Survey stage maps, will be announced soon along with details of the 20 competing teams. www.tourofbritain.co.uk

Helping Suffolk to become England’s Most Active County www.mostactivecounty.com 12

July - August 2015

Sponsored by Ipswich Borough Council The largest sport provider in Ipswich

Summer Fun

50 P A DAY SUMMER

Get up, get out and get active this summer

SIZZLER

There are literally hundreds of children’s and family activities to choose from in Ipswich during the summer holidays this year.

More sport and swimming than you can handle, creative sessions at the Art School, Museum and Mansion, fascinating guided walks, and community fun days in the parks. And what’s more it’s all wrapped up in an amazing ‘50p per day’ Summer Sizzler offer. (Conditions apply).

There is amazing variety in the summer programme and here’s a flavour of what’s to come.

GET OUT GET ACTIVE THIS SUMMER

Crown Pools Open every day throughout the holiday and still very much a family favourite! Enjoy the Inflatable slide, family float sessions, Sing-n-Splash, swimming lessons and parties.

Wildlife Family fun day A fun afternoon for the whole family, learning about the park’s Wildlife.

There’s an opportunity to take part in forest school or a guided walk, go pond dipping or look for mini-beasts in the micro-world of insects or even hold a snake. Kids will love…and usually the parents do too!

Sports With something for everyone, the sports centres offer everything from racquet sports to roller skating, archery to athletics, dance, trampolining, traditional sport schemes and summer parties.

Super guided walk - Horrible History of Ipswich or Head Hunting Head Hunting - Come and spot a ghastly Gargoyle, a grumpy Granny, find a magical Unicorn and a mysterious Green Man and discover the gruesome legend of Wayland the Blacksmith. With Horrible History, this walk includes all the nasty stuff! Discover the horrible things that have happened in Ipswich – diseases, death, what our ancestors did with their poo, executions, grave robbers, and worse! Very informative and something the kids will talk about over dinner.

Show and Tell day at Ipswich Museum: The natural world Bring your bones, fossils, (well-contained) bugs and natural finds along to this event, show your items to us and other visitors, and find out more about the museum’s natural history collections.

Partner organisations for this event include Geo-Suffolk, Suffolk Naturalists and Suffolk Wildlife Trust and its FREE! Community Activities - completely FREE There are also many activities held in the centres, parks and recs which are completely free to attend such as the Basketball Roadshows run by Ipswich Basketball Club, Jumpers for Goalposts run by Suffolk Positive Futures and activity days in the parks

S P O RT • S W I M MUSEUM • M ANSION P A R K S • WA L K S

Exhibition: Aspire. The Year of Constable Christchurch Mansion will be hosting John Constable’s masterpiece Salisbury Cathedral from the Meadows throughout 2015.

The complete programme will be online from 6th July at www.ipswich. gov.uk/schoolholidays including all the booking information and details of that Summer Sizzler - Just £21 for a junior iCard for 6 weeks which includes lots of the activities on the programme plus 50% discount off others (conditions apply). @familiessuffolk

Conditions apply.

Find out more at www.ipswich.gov.uk/schoolholidays

/FamiliesSuffolk

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Enjoying Ipswich’s Parks this summer

Are you tired of seeing your kids glued to the sofa playing video games when it’s a beautiful day?

It seems it’s the default setting these days, and not just for kids either; we could all do with getting up and outside to breathe fresh air and mingle with our fellow beings.

The Victorians knew that green space in towns and cities was vital for the health and well-being of the population, and even passed an Act of Parliament in 1841 to build a park in Tower Hamlets and encourage the building of public parks by all local authorities.

Nowadays when we want to go for a stroll, jog, picnic or game of football with the kids the park is the obvious place to go, and we can thank the Victorians for creating them and the various organisations of Ipswich for updating and maintaining them ever since.

ipswich town & waterfront

Christchurch Park

Spoilt for choice

First opened in 1895 and was the first public park in the town. Its 80 acres of picturesque grounds are home to the Grade I listed Christchurch Mansion as well as a children’s play area, tennis courts, bowling greens and refreshment kiosks, plus plenty of green space, footpaths and woods to wander and play in.

Other parks in Ipswich include Gippeswyk Park, Bourne Park and Landseer Park, all well-maintained and very pleasant places to picnic on a sunny weekend, to run through breath-steaming on frosty winter’s day, or to walk and kick through the leaves on a mellow autumn evening.

Chantry Park

Things to do at the park

The largest town park in Ipswich at over 124 acres. The park features parkland and wildlife areas, including a lily pond, lime avenue, walled gardens, wildlife meadows and the Nesfield Parterre.

Hollywells Park Just north of the Ipswich Waterfront area, has 67 acres of rolling grounds, ponds and woodland, with lovely sheltered picnic areas.

It’s also a favourite with children thanks to the water play facility (summer only) and large galleon-themed children’s play area.

Alexandra Park Sits at the heart of Ipswich next to the University campus. It has excellent views over Ipswich and is home to the annual May Day music and culture event.

14

July - August 2015

What else can you do in a park apart from walk and enjoy the views? Well you can play rounders or football or Frisbee on the wide-open spaces, after all who’s got a garden big enough for ball games these days? Go pond-dipping or bug-hunting. Fly a kite. Make up a treasure hunt. Make a wonky wooden boat and sail it on the pond. Jog, cycle or do your tai-chi or yoga in the shade of a tree.

Exhaust your energetic toddler on the climbing frames. Or just lie on a rug and read a book.

We humans are social animals and we benefit from being outside, especially in places where other people gather. Nothing much happens when we’re shut up indoors so get up, get out of the door and head for the park.

For more information about all the fantastic parks in the county please visit: www.familiessuffolk.co.uk.

Picture supplied by Ipswich Borough Council

Be Inspired

Picture supplied by Fotolia © Ilike

Summer Holiday Fun

Rainy Day Activities

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

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

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

GET BOARD!

Whether you’re a Jedi at Jenga or a master Monopoly player, there’s nothing like a giant board games tournament to pass the time. No one in the Butters household will ever forget the day a game of Battleships descended into an actual World War. And if I’m to be honest, I’ve never quite got over being beaten by my children at Scrabble after they came up with ‘zumba’ on a triple word score. However this is a chance to encourage your family to forget the iPads and X Boxes of today and remember the fun you can have with three dimensional people.

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

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

TAKE A DIP

If the summer showers won’t allow you to get dry, grab your swimsuit and head to your local leisure centre. News that half of primary

school children can’t swim the length of a pool should be a wake up call for all parents. Many local swim schools offer intense holiday courses for children looking to master this life saving skill and you can support them with a rainy day trip to your local pool. This time of year provides the perfect opportunity to make swimming fun and get the whole family summer holiday ready.

HEAD INDOORS

Your local museum is rain proof and packed with family activities to keep you all occupied. The summer holiday is a time for the attractions on your doorstep to put out the welcome mat for families.

Summer Holiday Fun Over the next few pages we have put together an overview of some of the great summer holiday activities happening around the County over the next few weeks.

Make a note of what’s going on, so that when that typical British summer does arrive, you know where to head.

For more information & updates on events in your area please also keep an eye on our website & social media.

Birch Farm Nursery  Quality Assured Full Day Care Nursery  Varied Sessions from 3hrs to Full day 7:30am - 6:30 pm  Impressive indoor and outdoor facilities  15 hours a week FREE termly Preschool care for 3 to 4 yrs  Extra curricula activities from Jo Jingles/Swimming/Ballet For more information contact Sarah or Nick  01473 652249  birchfarm@uk2.net  www.birchfarm.co.uk

@familiessuffolk

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Summer Holiday Fun

Sponsored by

Sponsored by The Mermaid

All Fired Up DAY BIRTH S PARTAIE BLE AVAIL

If you are looking for some ceramic painting fun during the school holidays why not contact All Fired Up who offers mobile ceramic painting parties at your home or venue of your choice. Everything you will need is supplied and your finished work delivered back to you within 2 weeks. Alternatively you could visit All Fired Up at Suffolk Food Hall every Thursday between 10am-4pm including during the school holidays. www.allfiredupceramics.co.uk

Outrageous Cake Academy

Cool clothes that

07598 323952

www.wheredoesitcomefrom.co.uk

tell tales...

16

March - April 2015

Funky kids clothes that come with their own life story.

‘Meet’ the people who made these gorgeous, practical, ethical garments.

Also at Suffolk Food Hall our friends at The Outrageous Cake Academy are offering a range of fun cake decorating workshops over the summer. The Outrageous Cake Company set up an academy for you to learn the wonderful and varied art of cake decorating. All ingredients, tools and materials, including aprons, will be provided unless otherwise stated on the website. Refreshments will be available throughout. Special needs can be accommodated.

Their workshops, classes or parties, are held in their artisan kitchen and are taught in an informal, relaxed and fun way. For all details please visit www.theoutrgaeouscakeacademy.co.uk

Easton Farm Park Suffolk Fun Festival The Suffolk Fun Festival is celebrating its third year at Easton Farm Park with a weekend full of family fun. Highlights this year include ‘A Dragons Tale’, a magical show told through puppets, changing scenery, music and sound effects, plus get to meet the puppets and create your own Dragon Puppet.

The outdoor stage will host a spectacular array of live music and local talent and the Table Top Circus join us for some circus treats. The festival is also excited to have ‘So… what’s the story?’ Storytelling bringing children’s tales to life and IMPS Creative Play providing fabulous play sessions including a giant Kerplunk, ball-run building and rainbow rice.

There will also be Make & Take Away sessions where you can make your own juggling balls, braid maker, stone painting and a mini windsock (and lots more!). Returning are the very popular canoe rides on the Deben and this year will also see a festival climbing wall, bubble extravaganza, traditional Punch & Judy, shadow theatre and wonderful displays from the Suffolk Kite Flyers.

As well as the festival fun, all the regular favourites from Easton Farm Park are included.

Meet the animals and get hands on by hugging a bunny or holding a chick, plus enjoy all the farm rides, outdoor playground and indoor playbarn. An assortment of delicious hot and cold food and drink will be available, so join the fun for just one day or, for the full Easton Farm Park Fun Festival experience, camp with us for the weekend.

The Suffolk Fun Festival takes place on Saturday 1st & Sunday 2nd August with all the fun beginning at 10:30am on the Saturday morning. Day, weekend and camping tickets are now available, with the camping extended to include the evening of Friday 31st July.

For more information visit: www.eastonfarmpark.co.uk.

Sponsored by

Sponsored by Kidzone Mobile Creché

Summer Holiday Fun

Museum of East Anglian Alton Water Sports Centre Alton Water Sports Centre is based at Alton Reservoir near Stutton Ipswich. The reservoir is the largest area of inland water in Suffolk, making a very safe location for young people to experience and explore the outdoor environment. The Centre offers a wide range of courses running throughout the summer; the courses are designed to progress young sailors through the RYA stages whilst also inspiring a passion for watersports. Our highly motivated, qualified instructors deliver carefully structured sessions that combine a foundation of basic skills and improving techniques for all ages and abilities in a fun and friendly environment. There are a wide range of training courses on offer from beginner through to advanced, courses are run for students aged from 6 -16 years plus adult courses also run throughout the year.

Additionally there are a wide range of water sports equipment for hire which includes single and double sit on top kayaks, rowboats, sailing dinghies, windsurfers and stand-up paddle boards, suitable for all age groups and abilities. The centre also offers private one to one instruction based on three hour sessions with all necessary equipment supplied. There is also an on site café and BBQ facilities which can cater for birthday parties or group fun days. For more information call: 01473 328408 or visit: www.altonwater.co.uk

HAPPY HOLIDAYS AT KIDZONE Exciting time for all school aged children! The 6 weeks summer holidays are nearly here, it can be a stressful time for busy working parents in need of quality childcare during the holidays. At Kidzone they offer Ofsted registered childcare at their fully equipped studio at Ipswich sports club on Henley Road, they are very flexible and can offer daily care from 8am to 6pm or just occasional days as and when required, booking essential. Kidzone go on daily outings to many local parks and have some fab day trips planned including bug hunting in Rendelsham Forest, crabbing at Waldringfield, cinema trips and a visit to the maize maze in Southwold…children will enjoy many activities around the club with cooking and craft afternoons, bouncy castle, group games and competitions to insure your child has guaranteed fun filled times at Kidzone. Call now for more holiday information on 07756535059/07724114794 or email on enquiries@kidzonecreche.co.uk

The Summer Holidays are just around the corner and the Museum of East Anglian Life has lots to keep little ones entertained!

Mud Bugs & Baking The popular Mud, Bugs and Baking sessions are returning. Starting with ‘Meg and Mog’ on the 30th of July and ending with ‘The Great Pet Sale’ on the 14th of August we will have six family friendly fabulously fun activities. Each session starts with a story followed by exciting activities for everyone to join in with.

Come and hear ‘What the Ladybird Heard’ then take part in a bug hunt or listen to ‘Owl Babies’ and try your hand at making chocolate nests. Drinks and biscuits are included and the activities are suitable for ages 2+. Summer holiday activities 10am-12pm, led by a museum staff, £2.50 per child plus normal museum entry.

My Museum Photography Competition The ‘My Museum’ Photography competition is well underway and the Summer Holidays are a perfect time to get involved. Could your child take the perfect pic for the ‘Young Photographer’ category? Winners will receive a prize and be invited to an awards ceremony later this year. Competition entry is included in Museum entry.

ARTefacts Re-Enactment Summer Holiday Club The Museum is also running two ARTefacts Re-Enactment Summer Holiday Clubs for children age 7+ with Black Knight Historical re-enactors. The Medieval week will run from the 17th to the 21st of August, and a Georgian week from the 24th to 28th of August, 10am to 4pm every day, learning from professional re-enactors and working towards the Explore Arts Award. Each ARTefacts Summer Holiday Club is just £99.00 per child for five full days of activities.

Booking is essential on both the Mud, Bugs & Baking and the Re-Enactment Summer Holiday Clubs. Book online at www.eastanglianlife.org.uk. For more information on these activities contact Jo Rooks on education@eastanglianlife.org.uk or telephone 01449 612229

Usborne Books at Home and School Make some money selling award wining books Host a party and receive fantastic host benefits Get up to 60% in free books for your school or organisation. *Exclusive offers* Contact Laura Cardwell: Call: 07984127697 Email: elliec@yahoo.co.uk Find us on facebook

@familiessuffolk

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www.familiessuffolk.co.uk

01473 788546

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Summer Holiday Fun

Sponsored by Eastern Farm Park

South Suffolk Leisure

Keep the whole family active this summer at South Suffolk Leisure!

GO swimming & enjoy our Wet ‘n’ Wild & fun sessions or improve your health & fitness thrashing out the lengths. At Little Kingfishers children up to 10 years will have great fun exploring the 4-tiered play frame which includes a ball pool, spiral & twin wavy slides, V net bridges & crawl tubes. Babies have their own area which provides a safe sensory & interactive play as well as a ball pool’.

Once a month we run Just Play Disabled children’s session to give families with children with any disability or a learning difficulty exclusive use of the play centre. Let us take the kids off your hands at Sudbury Sport Centre Summer Camps jammed packed of fun supervised activities.

Sparrowhawk leiSure • SpecialiSt providerS of outdoor activitieS • •

partieS from £12 per perSon offering air rifle Shooting, archery, archery tag, climbing, fencing and more!

• Suitable for age 8 to adult • can be hoSted at your venue of choice • alSo offering charity eventS, corporate eventS and hen/Stag partieS

tel: 07853 866863 www.sparrowhawkleisure.com

Looking to get yourself in shape for summer we offer a variety of exercise options from workouts in the fully equipped modern gym boosting a mix of cardiovascular and weight machines. Our supportive team can create personalised Active Lives plans for individuals to achieve their goal. The studio timetable provides a great blend of group fitness classes to cater for all whether the focus is on burning calories, tone and strengthen or for a soothing, stress-reducing & an invigorating experience with holistic classes include yoga, Pilates & Bodybalance™ And what’s more we can host your child’s birthday party or teach them to swim!!! Visit www.ssleisure.co.uk for details.

Kingfisher Leisure Centre/ Little Kingfishers Play Centre Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 2SU T:01787 375656 Hadleigh Pool & Leisure, Stonehouse Road, Hadleigh, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP7 5BH T:01473 823470

To find out more about what’s on visit our website: www.familiessuffolk.co.uk 18

July - August 2015

Summer Holiday Fun

Sparrowhawk Sparrowhawk Leisure are specialist providers of Outdoor Activities, they have been providing exciting outdoor adventures in Suffolk for the last 4 years. This summer they are working at local shows, working with RAF Honington and Suffolk County Councils “Operation Camouflage” at MOD Woodbridge.

Special Offer

If you are looking for a new experience this summer Sparrowhawk Leisure can provide Family and Friends sessions for you at a special reduced price of £100 for 2 hours of activity (normally £150). Just call or email on the details below and mention “Families Suffolk”.

They can provide any of the following fun filled activities: • Air Rifle Target Shooting • Climbing • Archery • Fencing • Archery Golf • Geocaching • Archery Tag • Orienteering Most activities will take place at Copleston Sports Centre but if a different venue is required they will discuss this with you. You can bring up to 12 people along for this new experience, so they are perfect for Birthday parties, family get togethers or for a group of friends. Sparrowhawk Leisure will provide all of the equipment necessary, a qualified instructor and venue hire to ensure a great time will be had by all.

To take advantage of this great offer contact Andrew on 07853 866863 or email: sparrowhawk@gmail.com

Holiday fun in Tower Ramparts

Tower Ramparts Shopping Centre may be going through major refurbishment but our friends at The Bear Garden and Pixie Palace are holding activities during the summer holidays.

Here’s what we can expect...

At The Bear Garden you can get your bear "holiday ready" with a new summer wardrobe. They stock a range of outfits, swimwear, footwear for long walks and back packs for essentials. Their holiday suitcases are brightly coloured and include a t-shirt, sunglasses, beach shorts, sun hat and teddy passport encouraging children to also cover up in the sun just like ted. There's no need to book and children are welcome to bring their own bear to play in the bear garden anytime in the summer holidays. You can find them in Tower Ramparts Shopping Centre next to Topman. Kelly Chamberlain, the owner said "Whilst the centre is undergoing it's exciting refurbishment we will be open as normal but do keep your eyes open for bear builders in our shop." www.thebeargardenipswich.co.uk Enter the magical world of Pixie Palace, a place where your dreams become reality. Located in Tower Ramparts (upper level) you can have your party hosted with your favourite character. From a royal princess ball to a swinging jungle theme to even our under the sea glow party, we can do it all! During the summer holidays you have the chance to dance with your favourite fairies, go through training with our superhero's and even have a royal breakfast with our beautiful princesses! Keep update with on their Facebook page: www.facebook. com/pixiepalaceparty to see when you can meet your favourite character! Whether you’re a princess at heart or a superhero in the making Pixie Palace can make all your dreams come true!

Don’t Forget... The Suffolk Baby & Toddler Show The Suffolk Baby and Toddler Show is on Sunday 27th September at the Suffolk Showground. Doors open at 10am (last entry 3pm).

Advanced Tickets are £2.50 (children go free) and are available from: www.suffolkbabyshow.com.

In the last issue we heard from a number of show sponsors. We now hear from Sudbury based Photographer Erin Freeman who will also be sponsoring and exhibiting at the show...“I am excited to be a sponsor of The Suffolk Baby and Toddler Show. There is such a positive buzz around the show and I really believe this will be the best baby and toddler event in Suffolk this year. It is also a wonderful opportunity for parents and grandparents to see the fantastic children orientated businesses in Suffolk. I will be taking pictures on the day so make sure you pop by and get your picture taken for a chance to win a photo session with me. I am looking forward to meeting mums, dads, grandparents and children on the day and hope to capture lots of cheeky little smiles! My stall will have plenty of information, products to see and goodie bags to take (they will have a special discount inside just for coming to see me).

琀椀渀礀 昀椀渀最攀爀猀Ⰰ 琀椀渀礀 琀漀攀猀Ⰰ 琀椀渀礀 瀀攀爀猀漀渀愀氀椀琀椀攀猀Ⰰ 挀愀瀀琀甀爀椀渀最 琀栀漀猀攀

www.thedaisyfoundation.com

Pregnant?

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Daisy Birthing™ – the ground breaking Active Antenatal™ program A practical, educational and supportive journey through pregnancy, birth and baby To find your local class contact Jo:

昀㨀 昀愀挀攀戀漀漀欀⸀挀漀洀⼀䔀爀椀渀䘀爀攀攀洀愀渀倀栀漀琀漀最爀愀瀀栀礀甀欀 攀㨀 攀爀椀渀䀀攀爀椀渀昀爀攀攀洀愀渀瀀栀漀琀漀最爀愀瀀栀礀⸀挀漀⸀甀欀 琀㨀 㜀㤀㐀㜀 㐀㄀㈀㤀㤀㌀

t: 07944 070 362 e: jo-cresdee@thedaisyfoundation.com

@familiessuffolk

/FamiliesSuffolk

www.familiessuffolk.co.uk

01473 788546

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There’s something for all the family at our leisure centres!

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Summer Time Fun

Kingfisher Leisure Centre, Station Road, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 2SU 01787 375656

Hadleigh Pool & Leisure, Stonehouse Road, Hadleigh, Ipswich, IP7 5BH 01473 823470

Sudbury Sports Centre, Tudor Road, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 1NW 01787 373132

11/03/2015 12:06

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26/06/2015 15:17

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