Families Suffolk Magazine - May / June 2019 - Issue 47

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In this issue

Party Feature We take a look at some different party ideas to inspire you.

Family Law More people than ever before are self-representing in the Family Court.

Blocks Solicitors explain why it is important to get specialist legal advice.

What’s On Don’t miss the grand opening of the new Heritage Farm at the Museum of East Anglian Life this May.

Illustrations Bryony Cousins Illustrations byby Bryony Cousins Issue 47: May / June 2019

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Families Suffolk: Issue 47

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Welcome & Contents

Hello...

In this Issue

Welcome to the latest issue of Families Suffolk Magazine

We know planning your child’s birthday can involve deepbreathing and military-style planning. This annual event has kids jumping for joy but many parents breaking out into a cold sweat.

Well, help is it hand as we take a look at some great party ideas to inspire you within our Party Feature on pages 11 - 13.

Last year saw an 18% rise in the number of divorce applications issued, and according to Blocks Solicitors in Ipswich more people than ever before are self-representing in the Family Court. As our new Family Law experts, they explain why it is so important to get specialist legal advice on page 10.

A new app has been launched in Suffolk to support parents and families to breastfeed, by offering information about breastfeeding and your child’s development. You can find out more on page 5.

If you also need help planning family days out over the next few weeks, then don’t miss our What’s On guide on pages 15 - 19.

With plenty of ideas for places to go and things to do, including more information about the new Heritage Farm opening at the Museum of East Anglian Life in Stowmarket this May.

4

Family Health & Wellbeing

5

Public Health

6-7

Clubs & Classes

8

Early Years

9

Education

10

Family Law

11 - 13 Party Feature

Remember you can also stay in touch with all the latest news and event information by following us on facebook and twitter.

14

With Best Wishes

15 - 19 What’s On

Stacey Phillips

Suffolk Museums

Editor

Follow us: Facebook /FamiliesSuffolk | Twitter: @familiessuffolk

Contact us: Editor: stacey@familiessuffolk.co.uk | 07951 946736

growing closer

Advertising: editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk | 07951 946736 Events & What’s On: editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk Print: Printed in the uk by Warwick Printing.

We’re Suffolk

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OUr next issue: July / August 2019

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Main features: Summer in Suffolk

are doing and we’re happy to roll

Circulation: 20,000 copies of Families Suffolk are

and prosper.

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

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Families Suffolk: Issue 47

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Family Health & Wellbeing

mini First Aid advice on:

Burns

By Nina Parnham When you have a baby, your body has perhaps gone through the biggest changes it ever could. Muscles are stretched more than twice their normal length, weight gain has increased rapidly over 40 weeks, posture and balance is challenged, hormones, blood volume and the brain alter, and a human is then birthed from your body. That feat deserves a medal. It also deserves some care and attention to the way you recover after birth.

Women need time to rest and nurture themselves after childbirth. Birthing, even if normal and ‘uneventful’ can almost be considered as a form of ‘sabotage’ to the body. Some women go through this event multiple times with each of their experiences being unique.

Although the female body is robust and is of course designed to grow and birth babies, the way in which each woman experiences the birth process differs greatly, and the way women recover and look after themselves is also so hugely variable. What is often overlooked is how long it takes for a woman to recover after birth. The common misconception that women are back to ‘normal’ at just 6-8 weeks is not the case.

It is unavoidable that women are required to ‘weight train’ from birth when lifting their little one and all the paraphernalia that comes with having a baby. In contrast if you had surgery or experienced trauma or injury to your body, you are expected to rest and recover carefully and would not be expected to repeatedly lift, carry and move loads day and night.

By Naomi Cooper As parents we all do our best to minimise risks for our children, but accidents still happen.

It’s really important that as parents we have the skills to deal with first aid situations with our little ones.

There are many different types of burns, from dry heat such as ovens, irons, sun and fire, or wet heat such as scalds, chemical burns or steam burns.

Facts and Figures: More than 13 toddlers experience severe burns and scalds in the uk every day! Hot drinks are the most common cause of scald injury in children, followed by contact with electrical cookers, irons and hair straighteners. The most common place of injury for children is in the home.

Treatment: 1. Immediately put the burn under cool running water for a minimum of 10 minutes, up to 20 minutes if possible.

Do not use ice, creams or gels.

2. Remove any clothing thats near the burnt area of the skin, including babies nappies, but do not remove anything that is stuck to the skin.

Mothers need to understand how to be strong to cope with their daily life activities. Repetitive patterns of lifting and carrying can take their toll if done without a specific purpose.

3. Cover the area loosely with cling film, this will help reduce infection.

Being unaware of how to protect the core and pelvic floor can have negative effects on their health later on such as a tummy gap that doesn’t close, poor posture, leaking from the bladder or bowel, hernia or displacement of the uterus, bladder, bowel or vagina.

Call 999 if the burn is larger than the casualties hand, it’s a deep burn, or its on the casualties face, hands, feet or genitals. If the burn is very small, ring 111 or see your GP.

It’s good to understand how to do things well, so as the load (your baby) you are handling increases in weight, you’re able to manage with more ease and less detriment to your body.

A Mummy MOT is a great place to start your journey of recovery and understand how to rehab safely. The earlier the better and you will then be carrying out tasks correctly and managing well as your baby gets heavier. Mama Wellness specialises in the care of women during pregnancy and postnatally and runs services as part of the Suffolk Woman’s Wellness Centre® organisation.

4. Always seek medical advice if a baby or child has a burn.

5. Give pain relief 6. Look out for shock.

Top tips for prevention: 1. Invest in a decent travel mug, not only will they prevent burns when accidentally knocked over but they will also keep your cup of tea warm for hours, win win!

2. Always test the temperature of bath water using your elbow or a bath thermometer.

Book your appointment with Nina Parnham who is the founder of Suffolk Woman’s Wellness Centre® and is Suffolk’s Mummy MOT practitioner and a Registered Midwife.

For more information and how to book visit the website www.swwcuk.com

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Families Suffolk: Issue 47

To book onto a Mini First Aid course near you visit www.suffolk.minifirstaid.co.uk The 2 hour class is £20pp, the cost of our child’s life is priceless.

Private classes in your own home with friends of family are also available.

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Public Health

New app to support families to breastfeed A new app has been launched in Suffolk to support parents and families to breastfeed, by offering information about breastfeeding and your child’s development.

The Breastfeeding Suffolk app includes: ∞ Helpful information and videos ∞ A timeline of what to expect throughout your child’s early development ∞ A map showing your nearest Children’s Centres

Breastfeeding Suffolk Your mobile app is now available

∞ Helpline contacts to assist with common concerns and queries.

More information and advice about Breastfeeding is available on the Healthy Suffolk website, including certified Breastfeeding Friendly venues in Suffolk and ‘The Dad’s Guide to Breastfeeding’ which shares useful ideas about how you can support your partner.

Visit www.healthysuffolk.org.uk to download the app for iPhone or Android. familiesonline.co.uk

Families Suffolk: Issue 47

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Clubs & Classes

S N O S S E L G IN M IM JOIN SW EA K R B Y IL M A F N E V A H A IN W ven holiday

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Whatever place you're into

“

“Learning skills for life.”

Swimming lessons for all ages from 6 months to adults!

For more information

suffolkcoastal.placesleisure.org Visit website for full terms and conditions.

Places for People Leisure Ltd. working in partnership with East Suffolk Council.

Deben Leisure Centre, Woodbridge 01394 388991 Felixstowe Leisure Centre 01394 694600

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Families Suffolk: Issue 47

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Clubs & Classes

Everyone Active launches partnership to get more people taking the plunge A new partnership is turning the tide on inactivity by creating a nation of swimmers.

Everyone Active, which operates more than 120 swimming pools across the country, has teamed up with National Governing Body, Swim England, to encourage more families to get active in water.

The two organisations are working together to improve the health of the nation by encouraging people of all ages and abilities to swim more often, with the mission of achieving 10 million swims in Everyone Active centres by the end of 2019.

Swimming is a fantastic way for everyone to keep active. It teaches people a life-saving skill, provides fun for whole families and offers a full-body work out that is great for cardiovascular fitness while being gentle on joints.

Water Babies Suffolk and North East Essex Baby swimming with Water Babies is an exciting, enriching experience for both you and your little one. Not only does it teach vital life skills, but it also enhances the way babies and toddlers learn other skills, too. The lessons always incorporate lots of bonding, fun and socialising, so you can be sure that a Water Baby is a happy baby!

Classes across Suffolk & North East Essex are run by Bex Succamore, who was originally introduced to the concept of baby swimming through taking her first child, Nathan, to Water Babies classes when he was 8 months old. ‘As a child, I’d hated swimming,’ Bex confesses, ‘so when a friend suggested going along to classes I thought it would be a good way to ensure Nathan had a positive experience with water, right from the start. I was a rather nervous mum when we turned up to our first lesson, but we both loved it, and I’d say that I learned just as much from the lessons as Nathan did!’ So much so, in fact, that Bex put her second child’s name on the waiting list before he’d even been born!

To find out more about local classes visit: www.waterbabies.co.uk.

You can also find them on Facebook at Water Babies (Suffolk & NE Essex), or join their Facebook Group where you’ll find a warm welcome waiting for you.

From young people who are taking the plunge for the first time to regular swimmers and experienced athletes, Everyone Active has something for everyone.

The dedicated Family Fun Swim sessions help children and parents to enjoy the water together, and involve floats and other aqua equipment to make it an exciting experience for children of all abilities. Wet & Wild sessions are also a particular favourite with youngsters, who enjoy the thrills of the inflatable assault course.

Swim 4 Fitness sessions and aqua exercise classes cater for those who are looking to use the pool to improve their fitness, while Everyone Active’s award-winning swim lessons teach more than 140,000 children every week to grow their skills and confidence in the water.

Through the partnership with Swim England, Everyone Active is helping more people to understand all the ways in which swimming can help them, and their families, to find the fun in physical activity.

Weekly Local Classes

A watery world of confidence, skill and fun!

Why not visit your nearest Everyone Active pool and discover what you can gain from getting in the pool.

To give your baby a splashing start call

01206 841 126

or visit www.waterbabies.co.uk Let’s teach your baby to swim!

Visit www.everyoneactive.com for details of your local centre. familiesonline.co.uk

Families Suffolk: Issue 47

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Early Years

What to do with your one year old for free

By Bows & Arrows Nursery Group

The musings of a Suffolk Mum! Suffolk Mum and writer Lorna Farrell shares her experiences of motherhood, and the stains, strains and growing pains that go with it...

This morning I had a plan. I figured there’s only so long I can really let the children jump on the sofa before things descend into total chaos and someone gets hurt, so since it seemed like a nice day why not go to the park and let them cause chaos there?

They run around, getting fresh air and wearing themselves out while I watch from a bench, reading a book and getting at least ten minutes peace.

Your child has changed dramatically over the past year from being a helpless newborn to becoming an increasingly independent individual. At 1 your child is very keen to learn.

Here are just three simple ideas which will stimulate your child and encourage their minds to develop!

Your child is always listening and learning—so the key thing to do is talk, talk, talk! Tell them about what you are putting in the shopping basket or cooking. Singing and nursery rhymes are also good activities for this age group.

At this age children love sensory play. Make your one year old a Treasure basket. Items to include could be: Brushes, pine cones, wooden spoon. These are items you might find lying around the house or outside.

Messy play is also great at this age – painting, gloop (cornflour and water) and shaving foam provide great opportunities for your child to experience different textures and mark make.

Put on an apron and enjoy in the fun!

It didn’t go like that. First I spent 45 minutes trying to persuade everyone that wearing both clothes and shoes would be a good idea. Then we arrived at the park and after a brief go on the slide someone discovered the roundabout and wanted to be pushed. I hate pushing roundabouts, swings I don’t mind so much but roundabouts just aren’t designed for adults to push easily.

Anyway, I drained my coffee, didn’t even get my book out of my bag and obliged. Who needs “me time” anyway?

Then it started to hail.

Two days ago we were potting up tomato plants and now we were being pelted with unseasonal hailstones, which we definitely hadn’t dressed for. Cue me trying to persuade everyone to get back in the car without a tantrum, followed by a freezing cold and tearful dash back into the house.

Children installed in front of the TV, bananas in hands, I turned on the heating and the kettle. Wholesome fresh air and exercise is over rated, maybe we’ll bake biscuits instead. After I’ve had a cup of tea and ten minutes peace.

Always supervise your child in any activity.

Wellington Nursery is just off Chevallier Street in Ipswich and is the only nursery to specialise entirely in the care and learning of children under the age of 3. Parents and carers comment on how safe and confident their young children feel at this small nursery, which was recently rated GOOD with aspects of OUTSTANDING by Ofsted. The Nursery is very passionate about outdoor learning (with the Nursery running 2 Forest fun sessions per week) and Natural Resources. Wellington Nursery is part of local Ipswich charity Bows and Arrows Group which owns 6 Nurseries across the town.

To find out more visit: www.bowsandarrowsgroup.co.uk

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Families Suffolk: Issue 47

Lorna is a writer specialising in creating blogs and web content for parenting related businesses.

If you want parents to be drawn to you like toddlers towards an unattended paint pot, then she’s the person you need. You can find her at linkedin.com/in/ lorna-farrell or as @wordsbylorna on instagram.

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Education

The Kumon Ipswich Central Study Centre The Kumon Ipswich Study Centre offers unique maths and English programmes to children of all ages and abilities.

Sangeeta Kumar has been a Kumon Instructor for eight years, she took over the Kumon centre in 2011.

In this time, the number of Kumon students has more than doubled and Sangeeta now supports over 150 students studying Kumon’s maths and English study programmes.

Sangeeta completed maths as a part of her Engineering degree and has always had a passion for teaching. Her first experience of Kumon was when her son joined the Kumon Maths Programme in Year 4 at school and discovered how the Kumon Method of Learning improved her son’s maths ability and confidence. Sangeeta said: “I have seen all my students flourish within the Kumon Programmes, whether they had special needs, had difficulty with maths and English or were looking for a challenge.”

21 MAY - 15 JUNE Find out how Kumon maths and English study can help your child to achieve beyond expectations. Book now!

Ipswich Central Study Centre 01473 614 665 Developing ability for 60 years

The centre is centrally located and offers free parking, good access to public transport, disabled access and a family waiting area. The Kumon Ipswich Central Study Centre is located at The Key, 15 St Margaret’s Plain with classes running on Thursday from 3.30pm to 6pm and Saturday from 10am to 12.30pm.

For more information, and to book a Free Assessment, contact Sangeeta Kumar on 01473 614 665 or email ipswichcentral@kumoncentre.co.uk.

Walk to School Week 2019 Thousands of children across the UK will celebrate the benefits of walking during national Walk to School Week from 20 to 24 May. Families will be encouraged to walk to school for the whole week to see the big differences that come from small steps: from healthier and happier children, to fewer cars outside the school gates.

kumon.co.uk

Terms and conditions apply. Fees vary. Participating study centres only.

Please refer to your local study centre. Subject to availability.

BECOME A HOST FAMILY

Could you host an international student? ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥

A rewarding experience, for the host and the student Embrace and learn about different cultures An additional source of income New friendships that last a lifetime Enabling students to come and study in the UK Full support and training provided

Walking to school is an easy way for children to fit more activity into their day whilst also helping them to develop vital road safety skills. As awareness grows of the dangers of air pollution on our health, walking to school is a positive action people can take to help clean up our air.

Special Walk to School Week classroom packs are available for school pupils containing wallcharts, stickers, diaries and fun walking journey activities.

For more about Walk to School Week, visit: www.livingstreets.org.uk/wtsw

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Interested?

T: 01473 559015 E: info@alphaguardians.co.uk W: alphaguardians.co.uk

Families Suffolk: Issue 47

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Family Law

REASONS TO TAKE ADVICE The Ministry of Justice released its quarterly Family Court Statistics for the period April to June 2018 and these showed an increase in the number of cases starting in Family Courts 7% up on April to June 2017. There was an 18% rise in the number of divorce applications issued over the same period in the previous year. More people than ever before are now self-representing in the Family Court.

MEET THE TEAM

Here are some reasons to take specialist legal advice:

1.

2.

10

John Simpson is a collaborative family lawyer and a Resolution Accredited Specialist in Children Law and Complex Financial Remedies; he can advise on all aspects of separation, divorce, finances and children’s issues.

Parties often leave a relationship with unrealistic expectations about their entitlements. One of the main functions of family and matrimonial lawyers is to inject a note of realism into their clients’ aspirations.

Without this, parties often continue to misunderstand their rights and to convince themselves that a judge will vindicate what they think. The result, is often disappointment.

A family lawyer will never deliberately give over-optimistic advice in order to prolong the dispute. A specialist family lawyer will be able to give advice about the likely outcome of the case in court in order to help formulate realistic proposals for settlement.

3.

The law can be in a state of flux. Our law of financial provision following divorce in the last 10 years has seen new principles injected into it, case by case, in order to reflect society’s changing sensations of fairness.

4.

A refusal by one party to deal honestly with the other. Full mutual disclosure is the essential foundation of any settlement of financial claims. Specialist family lawyers have ferreting skills to find undisclosed assets and their value in order to achieve a fair settlement.

5.

Specialist family lawyers are sensitive to emotions of fear, mistrust, anger or revenge in the wake of the breakdown of a relationship.

An experienced family lawyer will be empathic while at the same time exploring solutions for reaching an outcome acceptable to the client.

To speak to John call 01473 230033 or email: jcs@blocklegal.co.uk

Fixed price divorce offer

£525 +VAT and Court Fee Interview with a specialist family lawyer Taking initial instructions to final dissolution or decree absolute All document preparation Correspondence with you, the Court and other party/Solicitors Assistance applying for help with Court fees (Terms and Conditions apply)

Additional services provided outside the fixed fee: Disputes relating to children Financial/property matters Domestic abuse/violence Representation at Court hearings

For further information and appointments, please call Kerissa Blake

01473 230033 or email knb@blockslegal.co.uk www.blockslegal.co.uk 2-6 Arcade Street, Ipswich, IP1 1EL

Families Suffolk: Issue 47

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Party Feature

It’s Party Time!

Planning your child’s birthday can involve deep-breathing and military-style planning. This annual event has kids jumping for joy but many parents breaking out into a cold sweat. Claire Winter takes a look at some different party ideas to inspire you.

Food Parties

Parties at Home

Kids love food, so why not theme your party around it? A pizza making party is always winner. You can go to your favourite pizza restaurant or hold a DIY party at home.

Cupcake decorating parties also go down well and the guests can take home the tasty treat instead of a party bag. How about a doughnut themed party? They are even trending on Pinterest! Why not set up a Doughnut Wall covered in a variety of doughnuts? You could even attempt a DIY version.

If you want to host a party at home, think about hiring a company to help. You can even get specialists to come in and set up a sleepover these days. They will put up tents in your garden or your home, and some even supply breakfast on a tray!

You could also serve food that has a surprise element to it. A cake that is full of sweets when you cut it. Ice cream cones filled with savoury fillings. You could also mix up healthy food with treats, such as marshmallows and fruit kebabs or tortilla chips with hummus and crudités.

Number cakes decorated with fruit, meringues, and flowers are also all the rage. They make a great centrepiece on a party table.

Active Parties According to Pinterest searches for scavenger parties are up by 302%. These are similar to

Art Parties

treasure hunts and start with a list of things to find (or do) and a time limit. But there is no set path as players scavenge around and search for all of the items on the list. The player or team who finds everything on the list first or finds the most items before the time is up wins.

These parties can be great fun and relatively inexpensive - you could hold one in your garden or a local park or wood.

If your child loves making things, an arts and crafts party is the perfect choice for them. You can go to pottery centres, art studios or get a party provider to come to your house to host a craft party. You can do a huge variety of things like mosaics, pottery, painting and jewellery making. Your potential Picassos will also get to take their masterpiece home instead of a party bag.

You can also do a whole variety of different activities at your local leisure centre. They often offer a variety of swimming, inflatable and sports parties. Why not pick a sport your child loves?

Remember not to stress too much!

Your child will remember your efforts whether you hire a circus performer and a bouncy castle; host a fun party at home or organise a trip out the cinema or a trampoline park. Enjoy it and embrace the mayhem; they grow up quickly!

Whatever place you're into

“

“Party at our place!”

Bouncy Castle, Multi-Sports, Pool Inflatable & more options!

From £75! Visit our website for more info about our parties.

suffolkcoastal.placesleisure.org Visit website for full terms and conditions.

Brackenbury Sports Centre 01394 270278

Places for People Leisure Ltd. working in partnership with East Suffolk Council.

Felixstowe Leisure Centre 01394 694600

Deben Leisure Centre 01394 388991

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Families Suffolk: Issue 47

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Party Feature

Anglian Indoor Karting

Grand Prix Formats ✱ Team Endurance ✱ Group Private Hire ✱ Arrive & Drive for aged 8+ ✱ Kubz circuit for children aged 5-7 ✱ Cadet Club ✱ Kids Activity Days ✱ Birthday Parties ✱

Anglia Indoor Kart Racing is a fantastic birthday venue for children of all ages. Kubz Karting parties for ages 5-7 take place on their mini-circuit, using smaller, battery-powered Kubz karts.

To keep the little ones entertained while they’re not on the track, their bouncy castle adds to the fun and excitement. After the thrill of the circuit, the fun continues in the party room, with birthday cake and soft drinks, party bags and the presentation of a medal for the birthday child. Older children can experience the thrill of driving together on the main circuit which caters for aged 8 and upwards (minimum height of 1.27m).

Birthday packages include an hours exclusive use of the circuit with half hour in the party room with drinks, cake, party bags and a medal for the birthday child included. Freshly cooked pizzas or basket meals can also be provided. With the Birthday packages everything is catered for so there is no need to do anything other than send the invites.

For more information call: 01473 240087 or visit: www. angliakarting.com to start the adventure!

Tumbledown Soft Play Barn, Stonham Barns Thinking of organising your child’s birthday party but don’t know what your looking for, look no further... Crafty Suffolk at Tumbledown Soft Play Barn at Stonham Barns offer a great party package to suit you and your child’s needs, offering soft play for your whole party to enjoy.

With their new SEN party packages they can also reach out to so many more children and pride themselves on working closely with families to make sure these are truly memorable occasions.

Before confirming your party, they offer a one to one with Chrissie, the owner and play leader with many years of experience, Chrissie will take care of all the details and talk through any questions or concerns you may have, so on the day you can simply turn up and enjoy the party and make memories with your family and friends, and of course, the birthday child.

They can also offer a cold buffet or hot food, plus unlimited jugs of juice. A party package will include 1 1/2 hours play and 1/2 hour of food time.

Costs: Under 5’s @ £8.25 each - minimum of 5 Over 5’s @ £10.50 each - minimum of 10 Just a small £50 deposit is required to hold and confirm your chosen date, with the balance due at the end of your party.

For more information call: 01449 797306 or visit their facebook page: www.facebook.com/Tumbledownsoftplay.

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Families Suffolk: Issue 47

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Party Feature

at Birthday Parties Easton Farm Park Visit Easton Farm Park for a great Children’s Birthday Party.

The fun doesn’t stop and feedback from satisfied children has included: “This is the best day of my WHOLE life!”

The Party Packages include: ∞ Entry to the Farm Park ∞ Free admission for adults with the Party ∞ Train ride or barrel bug ride ∞ Traditional tea party with sandwiches, sausage rolls, crisps and ice cream ∞ Bag of animal food for each child ∞ Invitations and party bag pack ∞ Pony ride or pony and cart ride ∞ Entry to the indoor soft play area

You may choose from three different timing options, each lasting two and a half hours: OPTION 1

OPTION 2

OPTION 1

10am: Arrive

12:30pm: Arrive

3:00pm: Arrive

10:15am: 1st activity

12:45pm: 1st activity

3:15pm: 1st activity

10:45am: Play barn

1:15pm: Play barn

3:45pm: Play barn

11:15am: Tucker Time

1:45pm: Tucker Time

4:15pm: Tucker Time

12:00: 2nd activity

2:30pm: 2nd activity

5:00pm: 2nd activity

​Prices & Booking information for 2019 parties £160 per 10 children (minimum number required) plus £12 per child for any additional children.

All adults with the party group have free entry.

A non-refundable £50 deposit is payable to confirm your booking with the balance being due on the day ​A minimum of 10 children are required for birthday parties.

You must also ensure there are enough adults to supervise all of the children in the party.

Alternative options​: As an alternative to the standard Birthday Party package, Easton Farm Park can offer the option of a Pony Party, where the children can groom a pony before having their pony ride.

There is also a Toddler Party for the little people where they can Hug a Bunny as one of their activities as an alternative to the pony ride or barrel bug ride. Their second activity would be Family Train or Pony and Cart ride so Mum and Dad can ride alongside them. ​ or more information please call: 01728 746475. Visit: www.

F eastonfarmpark.co.uk or email: info@eastonfarmpark.co.uk.

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Families Suffolk: Issue 47

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Suffolk Museums

News from

Suffolk Museums It’s nearly Summer in Suffolk Museums The longer days and warm weather signal the start of Summer and across Suffolk, museums are welcoming families to a variety of fun events and activities. Over the May half-term, you’ll find discovery trails, new exhibitions, special family-friendly days and a host of other fun activities to take part in, (most of which are low cost or free).

Museums are family-friendly spaces and offer a chance to do something unique during your days out together.

Kids in Museums

Coming up this half term in Suffolk Museums MUSEUM OF EAST ANGLIAN LIFE Elmer the Elephant 30th Anniversary Trail 25th May - 2nd June, 10-4pm Elmer the Elephant is 30 years old! Help celebrate by having a go at lots of Elmer activities and games.

Den Building 25th May- 2nd June, 10-4pm Drop in to the Woodland Walk to have a go at building a den. www.eastanglianlife.org.uk

IPSWICH MUSEUM ‘Ask the Expert Day’ 29th May, 10-3pm A chance to show your interesting finds to a range of specialists, have them identified, and share your stories about them. FREE - just drop in. www.ipswich.cimuseums.org.uk

NORFOLK AND SUFFOLK AVIATION MUSEUM Junior Engineering Day 28th May, 9.30-4pm Have a go at metalwork, woodwork, and design your own door knocker or keepsake box. www.aviationmuseum.net/index.html

MID SUFFOLK LIGHT RAILWAY MUSEUM This family-friendly attitude is supported by organisations such as Kids in Museums. Founded in 2003, this nationwide charity champions family-friendly organisations all over England and Wales. The recently re-launched Kids in Museums manifesto, a set of simple guidelines for museums created with children, young people and families in mind, advocates for museums as family spaces and encourages museums to think about their facilities and create a space where families can explore, have fun and learn together. Many Suffolk Museums have signed onto the manifesto and aim to provide a welcoming environment and fun activities for all ages. You can find out if your local museum is signed up at www.kidsinmuseums.org.uk

The search is on!

The annual Kids in Museums Family-Friendly Award is also now open for nominations. The prize is awarded annually, to the one museum, gallery or historic home or heritage site that goes that extra mile to provide a great experience for families.

Last year, The Red House in Aldeburgh was shortlisted for the award, in recognition of the variety of free activities, family trails and events during the school holidays, which help families explore the site and exhibitions together.

Have you and your family enjoyed a fun day out in a Suffolk Museum?

You can nominate your favourite museum for the national Kids in Museums Family-Friendly Award at www.kidsinmuseums. org.uk. Nominations close at noon on 31 May 2019.

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May Bank Holiday Steam Up 26th & 27th May, 11-5pm Enjoy steam train rides in genuine Victorian 4-wheel coaches, traditional music and dancing with the East Suffolk Morris Men www.mslr.org.uk

THE RED HOUSE Spring Time Fun Tue 28 May - Sun 2 June (available during opening hours) During the May half-term, explore the gardens and wildlife at The Red House with Garden Discovery Trails, musical instrument making and giant games www.brittenpears.org/event/half-term-fun-2/

LOWESTOFT MARITIME MUSEUM Fishy Family Fun at Lowestoft Maritime Museum 25 May to 1 June, 10 - 4pm Join the Maritime Museum for family activities including, Captain Crabbe’s adventure trail.

Seaside Crafts 30 May , 11-3pm Get crafty and make a maritime memory to take home. www.lowestoftmaritimemuseum.co.uk

Check your local museum’s website or

www.suffolkmuseums.org to see what’s happening near you.

Families Suffolk: Issue 47

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On

What's On

The Hadleigh Show Where: Holbecks Park, Hadleigh When: Sat 18th May A wonderful day out for the whole family.

Various prices. U5’s FREE www.hadleighshow.co.uk

w Shome ti Aliens Love Underpants Where: Theatre Royal, BSE When: Fri 24 — Sat 25 May This zany and hilarious tale based on the best-selling children’s book is wonderfully brought to life on stage for the very first time.

Various prices www.theatreroyal.org

Leestock Where: Melford Hall When: Sat 25th - Sun 26th May LeeStock is a family friendly music festival held in memory of local musician Lee Dunford, with all proceeds donated to the Willow Foundation and other local causes.

Various prices. www.leestock.org Holiday Family Forest Fun Where: Daws Hall, Nr Sudbury When: Tue 28th May Activities include mini beast hunting, sawing, cooking on a fire, rope walks, mud painting, bushcraft and more! £14 to £17 www.hollysforestsessions.com The Suffolk Show Where: Trinity Park, Ipswich When: Wed 29th - Thu 30th May The show is the largest two-day visitor experience in the county.

Various prices. U15’s FREE www.suffolkshow.co.uk

In the Night Garden Where: Ipswich Regent Theatre When: Wed 29th - Thu 30th May Join Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends at In the Night Garden Live for a brand new show on their first ever UK theatre tour in 2019!

Prices start from £13 www.ipswichregent.com

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Half a Sixpence Where: Seckford Theatre, Woodbridge When: Wed 29th May - Sat 1st June The Company of Four are proud to present the smash-hit musical Half A Sixpence.

Various prices (tickets on sale through the New Wolsey Theatre) www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

THE SUFFOLK PUNCH TRUST We breed Suffolk Horses

A fantastic family day out...

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The Piglet, Junior Hog ‘19 Where: Wantisden Hall, Woodbridge When: Sat 9th June Obstacle course and mud run suitable for children 8 years and over, in aid of EACH. From £12.50 www.each.org.uk

• Explore the farm • Meet our rare breed Suffolk

• Museum • Gift Shop • Outdoor & all-weather Play

• Family friendly café • Heritage Garden

• Dogs welcome!

Horses, sheep, goats, guinea pigs, cattle and more

Areas

www.thesuffolkpunchtrust.org

01394 411327

The Suffolk Punch Trust, St David’s Lane, Hollesley, Woodbridge. IP12 3JR Registered Charity Number 1100596

Toddler Takeover Where: Ipswich Museum When: Wed 19th June Celebrate the Giraffe’s birthday and explore the world’s wonderful animals through play, art and stories. The day is especially for young visitors, ages 0 – 4, and their primary carers.

FREE www.ipswich.cimuseums.org.uk

Suffolk Day When: Fri 21st June Suffolk Day is the annual celebration of all things Suffolk, with a variety of events being held across the county to show off everything Suffolk has to offer! www.suffolkday.co.uk

A MINI TARZAN at Thetford Forest, near Brandon

familiesonline.co.uk

Book at goape.co.uk Participation and supervision ratios apply - please see our website.

Families Suffolk: Issue 47

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Toddler Takeover

IPSWICH MUSEUM Wednesday 19 June

Explore the world’s wonderful animals through play, art and stories! Bring along your tots aged 0-4 years for a day of fun.

Drop in for free anytime between 11am-3pm.

www.cimuseums.org.uk @IpswichMuseums

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Families Suffolk: Issue 47

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On

new Heritage Farm opening

It’s an exciting time at the Museum of East Anglian Life as their new attraction, the Heritage Farm, opens at the end of May. The development includes a brand new building, expanded animal area and a newly planted orchard, helping the museum to become a centre for conservation and education about rural heritage, food and where it comes from.

Visitors will be able to meet the animals, including the Suffolk Trinity, whilst learning more about food and farming. Find out which breed of chicken lays the best kind of egg or how much milk a cow can produce.

A brand new activity programme means there’s something to keep families of all ages entertained, you can take part in a have a go farming session or join the animal team for feeding time. Every day you can enjoy a talk, from watching Taff the museum sheepdog train to learning about how flour was made with a guided tour of the Watermill.

The new farm barn will provide an under-cover space for activities and displays for families, schools, adults and groups, as well as protection for a number of large objects in the museum collection.

The museum has also changed its pricing this year, meaning you can pay once and visit free for 12 months! For a family of two adults and three children this means that visiting the museum will cost less than £3 a month. With 75 acres to explore and the new Heritage Farm, it’s the ideal time to visit the Museum of East Anglian Life.

For more information on the museum and what’s on visit www.eastanglianlife.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

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What’s On 2018 11 Families Congo Swim Eat.qxp_130mm h x 90mm w 14/12/2018 16:0

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Adventurers Day Out

at Ufford Park Woodbridge

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A great day out with the children. Enjoy a round on Congo Rapids, a main meal from the children’s menu & a swim.

ONLY

Family packages available 1 adult, 2 children

£15 per child

(4 - 12 years old)

£45*

* Terms & conditions apply. Food is not included for an adult.

Parents must accompany under 12’s at all times.

t 01394 386871 w www.uffordpark.co.uk

Yarmouth Road | Woodbridge | Suffolk | IP12 1QW

Obstacle course and mud run!

Sunday 9th June at Wantisden Hall • 2km – 8 years and over • 4km – 12 years and over Sponsored by

www.each.org.uk/piglet Registered Charity No. 1069284

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THE MERMAID IPSWICH Yarmouth Road, Ipswich IP1 2EN www.mermaidpubipswich.co.uk

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Families Suffolk: Issue 47

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On

Bubble Rush 2019

By St Elizabeth Hospice

Suffolk’s biggest foam party is back for 2019 with another 5km of frothy fun!

Bubble Rush Ipswich will return to Chantry Park on Saturday 8 June – this year you can join the fun for less! The whole family can dash through the colourful froth for less, as this year we have cheaper adult tickets! Prices cost £18 for adults and £13 for under 16s, and under 2s are free. Run, walk or dance your way round the 5km route which features five bubble stations, each blasting colourful frothy bubbles.

Not free on 8 June? You can also join in Bubble Rush Bury St Edmunds in Nowton Park on Sunday 8 September.

How your support will help Taking part in Bubble Rush will help us support patients with progressive and terminal illnesses. We encourage you to get sponsorship from your family and friends, as every penny you contribute will help us help those who need us the most. ∞ £20.68 can pay for a critical call to our 24hr advice line OneCall for patients and carers ∞ £47.79 can pay for a visit from our occupational therapists so essential equipment can be installed for patients ∞ £103.84 can pay for a visit from the St Elizabeth community nurse specialists ensuring patients are pain free in their own homes.

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This year it costs less for the whole family to get involved with cheaper adult tickets!

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Fundraise in memory of a loved one in support of:

stelizabethhospice.org.uk/bubblerush 01473 723600

www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/event/bubble-rush

TOTFest® 2019! The ultimate pre-school festival is coming to Newmarket this summer!

TOTFest®, the dedicated baby and toddler festival, will be coming to Newmarket in 2019, and will take place at the iconic Rowley Mile Racecourse on Sunday 7th July.

Specifically aimed at children aged 6 months to 5 years, parents and children alike can expect a unique, fun, interactive and varied programme of events, ranging from giant painting canvasses and miniature fairground rides, to live shows from the likes of The Flying Seagull Project and Glastonbabies.

But the fun doesn’t stop here: there’s a creation zone, a baby rave, bubble workshops, science classes, crazy golf, drama workshops, story zone, tots race track, bounce land and messy play. In-fact there are over 50 shows, classes and activities scheduled to keep the smallest of guests entertained all afternoon. Maddy Griffiths, Co-owner of Pink Bear Events told us, ‘We are delighted to finally share the news that TOTFest® is coming to Newmarket for 2019! It’s a family festival with babies and pre-schoolers at its very heart. We are dedicated to creating an event which gives families with young children an opportunity to spend precious time together whilst trying out new things and most importantly, having fun!

Tickets range from £10 - £12. To book your tickets or find out more visit: www.pinkbearevents.com

Chantry Park Ipswich Saturday 8 June

FAMILY TRAVEL SPECIAL

Summer in the Alps The Alps may be an obvious destination for the ski season, but how about a summer visit?

Summer offers enough green (the mountains) and blue (the sky) to set you up for the whole year - and plenty of fresh air to fill your families’ lungs.

With reasonably priced flights from London airports to Geneva then a short drive to Morzine, there is a warm welcome waiting from Paul and Francesca Eyre at Chilly Powder. With the main chalet - Au Coin du Feu - plus two chalets next door, you can organise your own meals, or join the party at ‘Au Coin du Feu’ for dinners that you usually only dream of. Family friendly early evening meals for the children and a daytime crèche for little ones not quite as active as you, with drinks in the bar for the grown ups – or in the Jacuzzi on the terrace – Paul and Francesca will make you wish that this was home!

For more about Chilly Powder chalets for summer and winter visit www.chillypowder.com and more about summer in Morzine visit http://en.morzine-avoriaz. com/activities/summer-activities/

familiesonline.co.uk

Families Suffolk: Issue 47

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THE ULTIMATE BABY AND TODDLER FESTIVAL

NEWMARKET RACECOURSE / 12PM - 5PM FAIRGROUND RIDES | BABY RAVE | BUBBLE SHOWS | MESSY PLAY | CRAZY GOLF | SENSORY ZONES | LIVE STAGE SHOWS | PEDDLE KARTS | BOUNCY CASTLES | STORY TIME TENT | CREATION ZONE | SENSORY TREE | CHARACTER MEET & GREET | SAND & WATER PLAY | GIANT ART CANVASES | MUSICAL ALLEY | SCIENCE SHOWS | TOTS RECYCLING CENTRE | DRAMA WORKSHOPS | TO FIND OUT MORE OR BOOK VISIT:

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