Families Sussex Coast November-December 2018

IN THIS ISSUE

Bumper Winter What's On Guide Plan your festive season with 8 pages of events and ideas

Secondary School Options Explained

From Academies to Independent, Faith and Specialist - your options explained

Weaning your Baby With Annabel Karmel

LACASITA

Spanish-English Nursery

s - 5 years on t h am-6pm 6m -Fri 8 Mon

01273 323431

lacasitanursery.co.uk

43 Lawrence Road Hove BN3 5QE

Issue 61 November/December 2018

La_Casita_Families_87x60 aw.indd 1 familiesonline.co.uk

05/12/2014 13:59

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Families Sussex Coast Magazine | 1

Managing Editor

editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk For all enquiries call 07530 283330 Covering Littlehampton, Arundel, Worthing, Shoreham-by-Sea, Portslade, Brighton, Hove, Newhaven, Lewes, Eastbourne and all the places in between © Families Sussex Coast 2018 Families Sussex Coast is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Sussex Coast are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Sussex Coast. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but 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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News and Views Secondary school options explained Weaning you baby Spotlight on Carrie Grant What's on guide to family events Fun indoor ideas for winter rainy days

Talk to us....

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COULD YOU BE THE NEXT EDITOR OF FAMILIES SUSSEX COAST

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Well established print distribution and loyal readersh ip

2018 is Families Sussex Coast’s 10th year in print and we are looking for a new Editor to take the reins.

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Talking to Young Children About War this Remembrance Day Remembrance Day this year will be on Sunday 11 November and will be especially significant as it will mark 100 years since the original agreement to end fighting during the First World War in 1918, also known as Armistice Day.

Compulsory Relationship and Sex Education Relationship and health education will become compulsory for school children from September 2020, the Government has announced.

Under the proposals, all pupils will study compulsory health education and new reformed relationship education in primary school, as well as relationship and sex education in secondary school.

Teachers will talk to primary school pupils in an age appropriate way about the features of healthy friendships, family relationships and other relationships they are likely to encounter.

At secondary school, teachers will build on the foundation of relationship education in primary school and, at the appropriate time, extend teaching to include intimate relationships as well.

Accordingly, you can expect that there will be a great deal of media coverage given to this significant commemoration and your child may be prompted to ask you questions.

Discussing war with children can be quite difficult. Recognising this, CBeebies has produced a short animation, simply titled ‘Poppies’ to help convey the notion of remembrance in a way that resonates with a young audience.

It is a really beautiful piece to watch and would be a great way to introduce any discussion of Remembrance Day. The 2 minute film follows a bunny who starts off playing in a meadow, which then becomes a WW1 battlefield.

The film can be viewed on the CBeebies website at www.bbc.co.uk/cbeebies

Can Babies Sense Stress?

Babies may not be able to convey complex emotions, but they can still feel what their mothers are feeling, at least when it comes to stress.

At both primary and secondary, pupils will learn about staying safe online and how to use technology safely, responsibly and respectfully.

In a recent study, 69 mothers and their babies ages 12 to 14 months had cardiovascular sensors attached to them to record heart rate. The mothers were divided into groups to perform tasks ranging from “no-stress” to “high stress.” Their babies were not with them whilst they carried out these tasks and they were reunited ten minutes later.

Classes will also cover physical health, such as the importance of exercise and healthy eating, as well as the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and how it contributes towards the prevention of health problems.

Researchers then examined changes in heart function. Within minutes of being reunited, Infants of mothers in the “high-stress” condition experienced matching changes in heart rate. This stress contagion effect grew stronger as time passed.

More information can be found under Consultations at www.gov.uk/government/ publications

“Your infant may not be able to tell you that you seem stressed or ask you what is wrong, but our work shows that, as soon as she is in your arms, she is picking up on the bodily responses accompanying your emotional state and immediately begins to feel in her own body your own negative emotion” said study researcher Sara Waters of New York University.

More info, visit www.parentingscience.com

New Reception Test Criticised Children who start Reception in September 2020 will be the first group to take the new Reception test, a baseline measure to track pupils’ progress during primary school. It is proposed that it will take place during the first 6 weeks of the autumn term.

Guidelines recently released by the governments say the new reception baseline assessment will be short (about 20 minutes), interactive and practical. It will cover language and communication, early mathematics and social and behavioural skills.

However, the proposed test has been criticised in a report written by an expert panel and published by the British Education Research Association.

The report’s authors say that the assessment is highly likely to produce unreliable and invalid results, as it fails to recognise that young children develop at different paces and doesn't adjust for key factors, such as differences in ages and family background.

Add to this the fact that teachers and practitioners are likely to become increasingly pressured to 'teach to the test', and it is difficult to see how baseline results will have any real value.

More info at www.bera.ac.uk

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Beat Head Lice and Nits with the Bug Buster Kit If your children have had head lice before, then you may have been put off using expensive neuro-toxic pesticides on their heads.

Bug Busting is a head louse detection and eradication method, which works by combining specially designed bevel-edged combs with your own family shampoo and conditioner.

The Bug Busting method detects & clears lice completely without special treatments, removes lice systematically, breaking the life-cycle in four sessions spaced over two weeks and eliminates unsightly eggshells comfortably.

The Bug Buster Kit is NHS approved and safe for babies, children, pregnant women, nursing mothers and those with allergies. It costs £6.40 plus P&P but is reusable – only one kit is required per family To order a kit or for further information and advice, visit Community Hygiene Concern (CHC) at www.chc.org or call 01908 561928.

Wickers Gymnastics Celebrate 30 years with special offer Wickers was established in 1988 by owner and welfare officer Katy Hodgson when she was only 16 years old. Now 30 years later, the club has over 900 members and is still growing.

Wicker's offer a range of classes for all ages at their recently refurbished gym, from toddlers to adult and a popular Freestyle session new for 2018, where you can learn the basics in Parkour free running and tricks.

To celebrate their 30th anniversary, they are offering a free taster session on classes before the 31st January 2019 (excludes adults and freestyle sessions). To book your session call or email with the contact details below or check out their website for more information about classes. www.wickersgymnastics.co.uk Unit 9 and 10, Chartwell Business Centre, 42 Chartwell Road, Lancing BN15 8FB . Tel: 01903 752503 wickersgymnasticsclub@hotmail.co.uk

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Options for Secondary School Not sure whether your child would do best at an academy, free school or grammar school? The terminology surrounding the different types of secondary school can be baffling. Families explains the differences between the various types of school to help you begin the journey of deciding which school would best suit your child.

All schools fall into two broad categories – they are either state schools which are governmentfunded, either directly or via a local authority, and are free for all pupils, or they are independent schools charging fees. The education provided in all state schools and some independent schools is inspected and reported on by Ofsted, an independent department of government.

You can find Ofsted inspection reports at www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ofsted

Community Schools Community schools, also known as maintained schools, are state schools controlled and run by the local authority.

The local authority owns the land and buildings and determines the admission arrangements (such as a catchment area).

Community schools have to follow the national curriculum and stick to national pay and conditions for teachers.

Academies Academies are state secondary schools which operate outside of local authority control, receiving their funding directly from the government. These schools have more freedom and control over curriculum, school hours, term dates, and staff pay and conditions. These schools are run by an academy trust which employs the staff.

Some academies have sponsors such as businesses, universities, other schools, faith groups or voluntary groups. Whilst academies do not have to follow the national curriculum, they must be seen to be offering a “balanced and broadly based” education and are held accountable through a legally binding ‘funding agreement’.

Free Schools Free schools are a type of academy, but are entirely new schools, established where there is local parent demand, or independent schools becoming state schools for the first time. Free schools are funded directly by the government and have the same powers over their curriculum, finances and teacher recruitment as academies. Teachers, parents, existing schools, educational charities, universities, or community groups can set up free schools.

Specialist Schools Specialist schools are state secondary schools that can focus on a particular subject area such technology, language, sports or arts. The schools must meet full national curriculum requirements but have a special focus on the chosen specialist area.

Faith Schools and Faith Academies Faith schools and faith academies are affiliated with a certain religion or religious body, such as the Church of England. Unless they are an academy, they have to teach the National Curriculum, although they can teach

what they like in RE lessons. Faith academies don’t have to teach the national curriculum and have their own admissions processes.

These schools may get some of their funding from a religious organisation, which also usually owns the school buildings and the land. Anyone can apply for a place, but priority is often given to children who practise the faith of the school.

Grammar Schools Grammar schools are state secondary schools that select their pupils by means of an examination taken by children at age 11, known as the "11-plus". They are usually run by a governing body, which acts as admission authority. There are only about 163 grammar schools in England out of a total of about 3,000 state secondaries.

Independent Schools Independent schools are private or public schools and charge fees to attend, rather than being funded by the government. .

They are governed by a board of governors.

Independent schools may provide education for pupils regardless of ability, but some independent schools select students by ability, requiring them to pass an entrance examination or test.

So now you have the basics, the next step on your journey is to visit the schools you are considering. Talk to the head teachers, where possible, but most importantly, talk to the pupils. Secondary school age students are more than capable of articulating what they like or dislike about their school and are likely to be more honest than almost anyone else!

More info visit www.gov.uk/ childcareparenting /schools-education

Families Sussex Coast Magazine | 5

Tackling Texture From around 6 to 9 months babies are developing quite rapidly, so introduce as many different nutritious foods, flavours and textures as possible during this time.

To help them tackle texture, try finely dicing and softening small cubes of carrot or apple so their gums can squash them when they try to chew. Be careful of surprise chunks as these can really startle your baby and put them off. Making your own baby food will allow you to control the size of the lumps and in turn, gradually increase their size.

Weaning Your Baby

By Annabel Karmel

Blending, storing, mashing and messy highchairs are all part of the exciting journey of weaning! From around 6 months, a baby’s regular milk will no longer provide them with all the nutrients they need – in particular, essential fatty acids and iron – and their stores of these start to deplete. So now is the time to begin weaning, as missing nutrients need to be provided by food.

Getting Started Every baby develops at their own pace but here are few key signs that your baby is ready for weaning: Your baby:

• Can hold her head steady and sit up with minimal supervision

• Has developed sufficient hand-to-eye

coordination to look at food, pick it up and put it in her mouth

• Is showing an interest in what you are eating

• Has lost the tongue-thrust reflex

(automatically pushing solids out of her mouth with her tongue) and is able to swallow food

Best First Foods First foods should be simple, easy to digest, and unlikely to provoke an allergic reaction.

I would recommend starting with a single ingredient, ideally a fruit or vegetable. Root vegetables like carrots, sweet potato and butternut squash are very popular; they have a naturally sweet flavour (similar to breastmilk) and can easily be puréed to a smooth texture. Try mixing them with a little breast/formula milk to ease the transition.

From 6 months, your baby will need more than just fruit and vegetables and you will need to make sure you start to introduce iron rich foods like meat, lentils, eggs and iron-enriched cereals as well as foods rich in Essential Fatty Acids from oily fish like salmon.

The transition to solids is more about introducing food than giving a full meal.

Your baby will still need at least 600ml of

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With my son Nicholas I soon realised that if I added baby pasta shapes to his favourite puree then he was more receptive because it was a flavour he was familiar with. Give rice or couscous a go too.

Baby-led or Spoon-led?

Whilst a high percentage of parents start out with spoon-led purees, baby-led weaning (BLW) is fast growing in popularity.

breast milk or formula each day until they are at least 12 months old when their diet is varied enough to offer the correct balance of nutrients.

The BLW philosophy is to let your baby feed herself from 6 months, missing out on purees and spoon feeding altogether. Babies can explore a variety of different tastes and textures from the beginning, helping them to eat a wide range of foods and develop good eating habits.

Please don’t worry about picky eaters - we’ve all been there! Your baby may need to try a new food 10 to 15 times before they are willing to eat it.

As well as soft finger foods, you can offer a mini portion of a family meal (without the salt). Cottage pie, risotto or chicken curry are all ideal (and tasty) options.

Reflux and Allergies Around 50% of all babies experience some reflux during their first 3 months, but, it will prove to be a problem for only a very few and they will usually outgrow it. Gastrooesophageal reflux can sometimes be a sign of cow’s milk protein allergy so look out for the signs and symptoms and seek advice from your doctor if you are concerned.

Childhood food allergies are increasing but the actual incidence of food allergy in babies is very small - about 5 to 6%. Babies and children also tend to grow out of allergies like cow’s milk or egg allergy by ages 2 or 3.

If your baby is at high risk e.g. has bad eczema, then it’s sensible to get allergy testing done just before weaning to help guide safe introduction of common allergenic foods such as milk, egg and peanut. For babies with no history then these foods should be introduced from 6 months.

If your baby’s diet is restricted for any reason, it’s important to seek professional advice to ensure that they are still getting all the essential vitamins and minerals they need.

Iron, Fats, Protein, Essential Fatty Acids, Carbohydrates, Zinc and Vitamin D are all essential to include in their diet from 6 months.

Don’t worry about how much or how little your baby eats at the beginning; as long as they are experiencing a variety of tastes/ textures and eating lots of different nutritious foods then you’re on the right track!

Remember that no ‘one-size-fits-all’ with weaning. Some people decide to go with one method or the other, but I’ve always believed that you don’t have to choose. At around 6 months, you have the freedom to combine an element of baby-led weaning alongside spoon feeding if you feel that’s right for you and your baby.

Annabel Karmel is a leading children’s cookery author and feeding expert. Her book, Weaning (DK £12.99) includes everything you need to know about traditional and baby-led weaning, advice on when to start, critical nutrients, how to cater for allergies and intolerances, and more than 60 healthy and delicious recipes.

Available from all good bookstores.

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Spotlight on Carrie Grant

work out what is necessary for each child, and we have learned to parent in four different ways. It’s exhausting but also unbelievably rewarding. We are also working hard to change the world’s perception of autism, ADHD and adoption so that the world might be a better place when they grow up. This is another way in which I feel The Diana Award is a perfect fit for the vision we have.

Carrie Grant and her husband, David, first came to the attention of the nation as Fame Academy judges. Since then, Carrie has become a familiar face on our TV screens. What you may not know is that she is also a formidable supporter of charities. Claire Winter caught up with her to talk about family life Are you working on any new projects at and her charity work. the moment?

What initially inspired you to become a singer and then a coach?

Like many creative children, singing and dancing was all I ever wanted to do from the youngest age. I actually think it got me through my childhood. Back in 1993, David (my husband) and I were regularly booking vocal sections and choirs for bands. One day when we were working with Take That on Pray, they asked us if we could coach them.

We had never coached before, and we were more keen on singing, but once we began, we realised we loved it. It gave us access into people’s lives that meant we were mentoring as much as coaching and that is something we still love to do.

You’ve coached some great artists, who did you like working with the most?

I honestly love everyone I have coached.

When we first met the Spice Girls, that was awesome and slightly overwhelming as they were the most famous band on the planet at the time. I also loved working with Gwyneth Paltrow, who was an absolute darling.

You are a supporter of The Diana Award’s Anti-Bullying Ambassadors Programme. Why did you decide to support it?

I have spent most of my life feeling like I’m somehow on the outside. I think it was growing up being the child of a single parent during a time when that was really rare. I was made to feel ashamed, and that shame is something I would never want any child to feel. The Diana Award has the best strategies; they empower the children and young people to work with one another, they create a real coolness around being kind, and of course, they have the support of the Princes behind them. Who wouldn’t want to support that!

It’s Anti-Bullying Week in November, what do you think parents and kids can do to prevent bullying?

We have to stop “othering” people. Difference is not to be despised; it is a beautiful thing.

The problem we have right now is that adult society is in a perpetual state of “othering,” so the wrong messages gets put onto our children. Learn about difference in others and speak well of people in front of your children.

You and your husband have talked openly about having children with complex needs. What is your advice to parents whose children may have autism, ADHD or who are adopted and face challenges?

Once you’ve got through the first period of adjustment, a parental mind set change has to happen. We can keep despairing that our children have challenges or we can learn to look at them through a new lens, one which doesn’t define them by their challenges or issues, but finds beauty and magic and a whole host of other advantages and qualities to love and cherish.

How do you and your husband work around the demands of family life?

We try to job-share our time as much as possible so that one of us is always at home.

We have had to become super-parents and

I have just received an Honorary Doctorate of Arts for my services to charity from the University of Bedfordshire and I am hoping this will open up even more doors for the campaigning work I do within the NHS for patients and within the SEND arena.

Workwise, I am a regular reporter for The One Show, and I also present for Radio London, Nurture TV, and Vintage TV.

If you could give our readers one bit of advice, what would it be?

For all SEN parents - you are more powerful than you realise. If you feel isolated and as if your voice isn’t heard, join with others… because there will be a tipping point and change will come. And for all families, the biggest message I could give is, “YOU ARE ENOUGH.” The Diana Award is a charity legacy to Diana, Princess of Wales’ belief that young people have the power to change the world.

The charity runs the leading Anti-Bullying Programme in the UK and Ireland, giving young people the skills, confidence, and training to tackle all forms of bullying as Anti-Bullying Ambassadors. Their Royal Highnesses, The Duke of Cambridge and The Duke of Sussex, support the organisation.

Find out more about the charity and its antibullying events in November at www.antibullyingpro.com

Odd Socks Day for Anti-Bullying Week Anti-Bullying Week runs from 12th to 16th November 2018 and the theme this year is choosing respect over bullying.

Students are being encouraged to wear odd socks to school on Monday 12 November to show their support and raise money for a good cause.

Visit www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk

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Families Sussex Coast Magazine | 7

Visit Father Christmas at Amberley Museum We’ve scoured the area for the best local family events during November and December so you don’t have to! We take great care in compiling our events guide, but please do contact venues before you leave home as things can change.

Until 18 November Snailspace Brighton

Martlets, Hove, BN3 7LW

Last chance to see the snail sculptures that have popped up throughout the city, decorated by local artists and community groups, and sponsored by local businesses and individuals. The ‘Snailway’ of sculptures is brought to you by Martlets Hospice, in partnership with Wild in Art, to raise funds for their life changing hospice care. Pick up a copy of the Route Map at your local Martlets Charity Shop, or download it from their website.

Until 6 January The Snowman™ exhibition

Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, Royal Pavilion Gardens, BN1 1EE 03000 290900 An exhibition of the original illustrations for Raymond Briggs’ much loved classic picture. Normal admission charges apply.

2 November Worthing RFC Firework Display

Worthing Rugby Club, Roundstone Lane, Angermering, BN16 4AX

A great night awaits you this Bonfire Night 2018 with spectacular fireworks in Worthing. Gates open at 6pm with a huge display taking place at 7.30pm. There will be music throughout the evening

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Father Christmas is visiting us on selected weekends 1st & 2nd, 8th & 9th, 15th & 16th December.

Spot the dot for FREE events!

Ride the Christmas express train to visit him in our 19th century train ticket office.

Pre-book your tickets online Adults £10, Children £16, Under 4’s are £8.

and plenty of entertainment with fairground rides, food and both bars open. Tickets are available from the club office or bar at £5 adult/£4 child/£15 per family of four. £5 per person on the night.

3 November Hove Green Bonfire Night

Nevill Playing Fields, Hove BN3 6NF 01273 358153

Choreographed to a fantastic musical soundtrack with food stalls open all evening, and glow sticks and flashing toys will be on sale at stalls inside the grounds. Please support this event by not buying your glow stuff from unlicensed traders on the street. No parking on site. Gates 5pm Display 7pm.

3 November Art Saturday with Woody Brighton Dome, 29 New Road, BN1 1UG, 01273 700747

Art Saturday returns with two workshops on creating characters and picture-led stories. Young artists/authors can learn simple techniques for character development and planning short stories on paper. Create colour schemes and use rough sketches to help you create your own completed character and/ or mini story with illustrator Woody. 10am–11.15am, Creating Characters (ages 5–10). 11.30am–12.45pm, Planning Short Picture Stories (ages 5–10). Tickets £5

New Barn Road, Amber ley, Nr Arundel, BN18 9LT 01798 831370 - ww w.a mbe rleymuseum.co.uk

world of magic wonder

Step into a and

this

Christmas

as Field Place Manor House & Barns welcome you to their...

Sat 8th & Sun 9th, Sat 15th & Sun 16th December Visit Santa hourly from 9:00am to 2:00pm & 2:30pm to 5:30pm

Join in our Tickets:

£12.95 PER CHILD

Adults go

FREE!

plus Festive food and drink will be available to purchase.

The Boulevard | Worthing West Sussex | BN13 1NP

www.fieldplace.co.uk

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What's On

GOLDEN WEEK 1st – 7th December

30th November - 1st January Aladdin: The Pantomime

Book a show during Golden Week, where everyone gets a free programme and evening performances will be followed by a meet & greet with photo opportunities with at least two cast members.

Pavilion Theatre, Marine Parade, Worthing, BN11 3PX. Box Office 01903 206 206 Worthing Theatres and Paul Holman Associates have announced an exciting star cast for their annual family pantomime, Aladdin, playing at the Pavilion Theatre, Worthing from Friday 30th November 2018 to Tuesday 1st January 2019.

Following on from the record-breaking success of their 2017 pantomime, they have confirmed that this year’s festive offering, Aladdin, will be headlined by Lee Latchford-Evans of STEPS mega-fame in the title role.

Lee is joined by CBeebies favourite, TV presenter Rebecca Keatley as Aladdin’s love interest, the feisty Princess Jasmine along with award-winning comedian Vikki Stone who brings her unique comedy style to play the male role of the evil Abanazar.

Completing the line-up is comic Mark Jones as Wishee Washee and Brighton cabaret star Dave Lynn as Widow Twankey.

The magical Genie of the Lamp will be a spectacular 12-foot puppet voiced, in pre-recorded footage, by one of the most recognisable voices in the UK, legendary actor and national treasure, Brian Blessed, famed for his booming performances in iconic movies such as Flash Gordon.

The cast will also be joined on stage by two teams of talented local children who, after successfully auditioning, will perform alongside the cast of seasoned professionals as both dancers and a Junior Police Force, attempting to bring order to the pantomime mayhem which will undoubtedly ensue.

The show promises to be jam-packed with breath taking special effects, dazzling scenery and costumes, high energy singing and dancing and, of course, plenty of laughter and traditional audience interaction.

Visit worthingtheatres.co.uk for show times and dates.

3 November Stories with Skip - In Space Theatre Royal Brighton, 35 Bond Street, BN1 1SD 01273 764400

A perfect introduction to Theatre Royal Brighton for little ones, with stories, puppets, games, mini makes and lots of joining in for 2 -4-year-olds and their adults.

The theme for this session is space! 10am / Tickets £5.

3 November The Big Draw Workshop

Phoenix Brighton, 10-14 Waterloo Place, BN2 9NB, 01273 603 700

Enjoy working as a family to explore different materials in these relaxed, fun workshops with Phoenix artists. All you need is your imagination and a willingness to get stuck in!

Free, drop-in sessions suitable for families with children aged 5-14yrs. 11am – 1pm and 2pm – 4pm

3 November - 13 January Ice Skating at Brighton Royal Pavilion Ice Rink Christmas Royal Pavilion, Brighton, BN1 1EE

Take the family ice skating at Brighton Royal Pavilion Ice Rink this Christmas. Located within Brighton’s North Laine district, at night, the ice rink will be lit at night for a truly magical Christmas experience.

The 880-square metre main rink offers plenty of space for more confident skaters, while the 130-square metre beginners’ rink is perfect for younger skaters, with penguin skate aids available.

Ice Skating sessions must be booked online or through the on-site ticket office and are one hour long. Various time slots available / Tickets cost from £10 for full price tickets (aged 12 and over), and from £7 for juniors (under 12).

5 November Worthing Lions Firework Display Bonfire Night

7 and 21 November Skips After School Club

Enjoy the huge fireworks display in Worthing this November 2018.

Pre-schoolers will love this craft and storytelling club at Hove Museum. These are drop-in sessions, suitable for ages 2-5 years. 10am - 12pm / £2 per child.

Fun and informal after-school sessions for 6 - 10-year-olds with a different theme each time. Each session includes warm-up games, a look on stage, themed drama and craft activities and squash and biscuits. Sessions are led by experienced workshop leaders and are a great way for children to find out more about theatre, make friends and enjoy trying out new things. 4pm / Tickets £7.50 per child.

6 November Babies in Museums

9 – 11 November Diversity: IGNITE

A session especially for babies and toddlers aged up to 18 months and their parents/carers. Play and learn together in the stimulating environment of the museum.

Booking is essential. £5 per child plus museum admission.

11am - 1pm

Circus has always had a huge influence on Diversity and their shows, but Ignite will take the combination of street dance and circus to a whole new level. To celebrate 250 years of circus Diversity have partnered with Gandey World Class Productions to bring audiences a show that will leave them in awe. Visiting just 7 cities around the UK in a touring 2000-seat big top arena to give the true circus experience. Tickets from £30.

Theatre Royal Brighton, 35 Bond Street, Brighton, BN1 1SD, 01273 764400

Worthing Piers Southern Pavilion, BN11 3PX, 01903 366017

5, 12, 19 and 26 November Hove Museum Minis

Hove Museum, 19 New Church Road, BN3 4AB

4 November Flawless in Worthing

Pavilion Theatre, Worthing Pier, Worthing, BN11 3PX, 01702 427100

Flawless are back performing an even bigger and more jaw dropping routines than ever before! Stars of the smash-hit movies Street Dance 3D 1 & 2 and two-time winners of the World Dance Championships, Flawless came to the fore on TV’s Britain’s Got Talent a few years ago and their popularity has continued to rise since.

5 November Lewes Bonfire Celebrations and Firework Displays

Brighton Racecourse, Freshfield Road, BN2 9XZ, 0333 321 9999

Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, BN1 1EE, 03000 290900

Lewes Town Centre, High Street, Lewes, Sussex, BN7 2QS

An annual celebration with processions and firework displays throughout the town.

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Families Sussex Coast Magazine | 9

10 November Balfour Primary School Fireworks Display

Balfour Primary School, Balfour Road, BN1 6NE, 01273 507722

Head to Balfour Primary School's legendary Firework Night this November. There will be something for everyone including hot food, wine, beer, ale, mulled wine, soft drinks, glow sticks, music, entertainment and a fantastic firework display. Doors open at 5pm and the display starts at 6.45pm / Ticket Prices: Adult £5.50, Child £4.50, Family £16

10 November Nick Sharratt’s Drawalong

Ropetackle Arts Centre, Shorehamby-sea, BN43 5EG

Join this much-loved children’s writer and illustrator in a family-friendly, fun-filled drawalong forages 4 and above. 2pm / Tickets £8.

10 November Morgan and West’s Utterly Spiffing Spectacular

Connaught Theatre, Union Place, Worthing, BN11 1LG, 01903 206206

Mixing brain boggling illusion and good old fashioned tom-foolery, Morgan & West present a show for all the family, where magic and silliness abound! 2pm / Tickets £9.50 / Family of four £32

9, 16, 23 and 30 November Mr Booth’s Mini-Museum Explorers

10 November South Heighton Fireworks Display and Parade

These sessions for 2-5 year olds include art activities, a museum expedition, a story and handling some museum objects and a different theme each time. Book in advance by telephoning the Events Booking line on (Mon-Fri), or in person, or online. 10am 11:30am. £5 per child.

The 2018 Display and Parade will be fun for all the family.

The procession starts at the Flying Fish at 6:30pm, with a short stop outside the Hampden Arms, before carrying on to the recreation ground where the fireworks display takes place. Fireworks display at approximately 8pm.

Adult £4 / accompanied under 18s free (up to 3 per adult).

Booth Museum of Natural History, 194 Dyke Road, BN1 5AA 03000 290900

9 November Short Stories Tall Tales

Ropetackle Arts Centre, Little High Street, Shoreham-by-sea, BN43 5EG Monthly storytelling from ‘Short Stories, Tall Tales’ brings classic and modern books to life through live performance and interactive, creative play.

Adventure into stories, explore through the senses and let your little ones’ imagination run free. Suitable for ages 0-4 years. Duration 45 mins.

11.30am-12.15pm and 1.30pm2.15pm / £5 per adult + 1 child, £2 per additional sibling.

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South Heighton Recreation Ground, Newhaven, BN9 0HL

10 November East Hoathly Bonfire Procession and Fireworks

War Memorial playing fields, London Road, East Hoathly BN8 6QF

The family fun fireworks and bonfire parade in East Hoathly near Lewes will be a great event again this year with plenty of fun to entertain all ages. With it’s annual torchlit procession with visiting bonfire societies, marching bands, bonfire and a spectacular firework display.

10 – 11 November Winter Craft and Gift Fair Michelham Priory, Hailsham, BN27 3QS

Enjoy festive fun and tasty treats with dozens of stalls, decorations and music in this beautiful setting. 10:30am - 4pm / Normal admission charges apply.

10 November Worthing Wormhole Comicon Worthing Assembly Hall, BN11 1HQ

Worthing Wormhole is a family friendly Comic Con including guest actors from Star Wars, Harry Potter and Doctor Who, G4ming St8ionzone, Silver Sabres LED Sabre Combat Academy, Harry Potter Wand School with actor Jon Campling, CircusSeen CIC, LEGO tables and more!

From 10am / Adult £8 / Child £4. Extra charge for some activities.

10 and 17 November Arty Crafty Club

Hove Museum, 19 New Church Road, Hove, BN3 4AB

Creative kids will love the Arty Crafty Club! Each club takes a gallery of the museum as its theme to try out different making methods and skills.

Children will have the chance to try their hand at a range of techniques, including animation, clay, sewing, woodwork and more. Suitable for ages 8 - 12 years. There is no need to pre-book for these sessions. 2pm - 4pm / £6.50 per workshop.

11 November Remembrance Sunday

War Memorial, Beach Road, Littlehampton, BN17 5JA, 01903 732063

The Remembrance Sunday parade will muster adjacent to the Town Clock in the High Street precinct at 10:30am and march off at 10:45am.

A short service including the laying of the wreaths and two minutes silence will be held at the war memorial at 11am, the parade will then move to St Mary’s Church where another service will take place.

10:30am – 12pm.

11 November Beacon Lighting

Littlehampton Seafront, Sea Road, BN17 5GB, 01903 732063

Littlehampton will take part as a national chain of beacons is lit to mark the 100th anniversary of the end of World War 1. Evening times to be confirmed. 6:30 - 8pm.

16 November – 31 December Magical Story Land Hove Museum, 19 New Church Road, BN3 4AB

Do you remember the Story Cabinet and the Wishing Tree, the magical paper sculptures created by local artists? They have returned to the museum for Christmas, with more magical stories and gallery activities for the festive season. (Closed 24-27 December).

17 November – 24 December Breakfast or tea with Santa Wyevale Garden Centre Lewes, BN7 3NE, 0844 288 5035

Make Christmas magical with a character breakfast or tea with father Christmas. Meet Santa and receive a present, tuck into a delicious meal, decorate your own biscuit and enjoy festive fun activities!

From 9:30am / from £5.

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Are you ready for a Wild Winter?

Various dates from 24 November – 23 December Visit Santa in his Sweet Factory

Arundel Wetlands Centre, Mill Rd, Arundel BN18 9PB. 01903 883355 Winter is an amazing time to visit Arundel Wetland Centre, with wonderful wildlife and exciting events to explore and discover!

Families can board an elf-powered boat for a gentle ride through the reed beds to visit Father Christmas on Dec 1-2 & Dec 8-9. The popular Sail to Santa event is back this December at Arundel Wetland Centre. An £8 ticket takes a child and their guardian on unique trip where children can experience the magic of a festive visit with Father Christmas inside his ‘frosty’ grotto and receive a quality WWT Christmas gift. Christmas crafts with the elves, posting a letter to Father Christmas and trying the ‘Naughty or Nice O-metre’ before boarding all add to the excitement to the experience.

Advance tickets are on sale for boat departure time slots, so booking is essential. Tickets are £8 per child and are for sale online only. This price does not include admission to WWT Arundel Wetland Centre but children under 4 are admitted free. Admission tickets to Arundel Wetland Centre can be purchased online at a saving of 10%.

Paradise Park, Avis Road, Newhaven, BN9 0DH, 01273 512123

Make your way through the magical factory and encounter elves making sweets before meeting Santa himself and receiving a special gift. Entry to Santa's Sweet Factory is included with all paid Day Park Passes. Entry for annual pass holders, those receiving reduced rate entry and all under 3’s (who enter the park for free) is priced at £3.99 per child. Check website for dates and times.

HAVE A

WILD WINTER at Arundel Wetland Centre

Discover wonderful wildlife, exciting events & beautiful boat rides!

PLUS

30 November Meads Magic Christmas Market

Meads Street, Eastbourne, BN20 7QY

Winter

A popular Festive Street Market with the high street filled with activities and fun for all the family. The street is lined with market stalls selling fabulous handcrafted goods, perfect for a spot of Christmas shopping while listening to carol singing from local schools. The local traders get festive with special events and activities too.

2.30pm - 7pm.

WWT Arundel Wetland Centre is open from 9:30am – 4:30pm throughout the holidays, exceptWfor ELLNESS Sail to Santa is back!

Weekend Christmas Day when the centre is closed. On Christmas Eve the centre closes early at 2 pm. WWT Nov 3-4 Dec 1, 2, 8 & 9 Arundel is open on Boxing Day and on New Year’s Day.

17 November – 1 January Christmas at the Pavilion

Royal Pavilion, Brighton, BN1 1EE

The spectacular Banqueting Room table is laid for a Royal feast and the building is transformed with festive decorations and glittering trees. Pavilion-inspired decorations bring sparkle, glamour and Christmas cheer for all the family, with drop-in activities taking place during the weekends leading up to Christmas. Enjoy the rare chance to take your own festive photo in a Victorianstyle Sleigh in the Music Room where George IV entertained his guests. Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day / Normal admission charges apply.

Weekends from 17 November Santa's Christmas Cottage Drusillas Park, Alfriston, BN26 5QS

Father Christmas makes a welcome return to the zoo.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to come faceto-face with a husky at the zoo. The two cuddly canines will be meeting and greeting visitors in the Ice Cave. Visit Santa in his cosy Christmas Cottage on weekends from Saturday 17th November, and then daily from Thursday 13th - Sunday 23rd December.

Drusillas festive illuminations will feature lots of animal lights and Christmas trees, while the Events Arena will be lit up with colour! Normal admission charges apply + small additional charge to visit Santa and receive a gift.

Book online & save 10% 24 November – 24 December wwt.org.uk /arundel Santa'sWest Toy Factory Sussex, BN18 9PB

17 November Skips Family Workshop Winter in Narnia

South Downs Garden Centre, Hassocks, BN6 9LY

Theatre Royal Brighton, 35 Bond Street, BN1 1SD, 01273 764400

Children and their grownups make, play and have fun together in these creative workshops suitable for 5 – 10 year-olds (must be accompanied by an adult).

Take a trip through the back of the wardrobe to the snowcovered land of Narnia for a making and doing session based around the story of the Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. 10:30am / Tickets £7.50.

24 November Black History Family Day

Brighton Dome, BN1 1UG (01273 700747) and Brighton Museum and Art Gallery BN1 1EE (03000 290900)

An annual multi-cultural celebration in Brighton, with arts, music, dance and activities for all.

Take the whole family along to join the fun, sample the food, dance to the beat, take part in the creative workshops and listen to the stories. 12pm - 5pm.

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Experience the magic of Santa's Toy Factory at South Downs Nurseries this Christmas. Even bigger and better than last year, Santa has expanded his workforce with even more animated elves and a brand-new toy making machine! Complete your visit by meeting Santa in his factory office and receiving a gift. This grotto is operated

by The Budding Foundation Charity and all proceeds from ticket sales will be used to fund local projects. Tickets are £6.50 per child, including a gift. various time slots available, please visit website to check availability.

30 November – 23 December Eastbourne Christmas Market

Terminus Road, Eastbourne, BN21 3AP Eastbourne Town Centre market is situated along the pedestrianised precinct of Terminus Road. Expect traditional Christmas stalls selling locally made crafts, handmade gifts, local produce and delicious seasonal food!

There will also be mulled wine, Christmas trees and lights, live entertainment and children's activities for the little ones!

10am - 6pm.

1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16 December Christmas at Amberley Museum

Amberley Museum, Station Road, Amberley, BN18 9LT

It's the festive season at Amberley Museum, with market stalls, children’s crafts and a family Christmas trail. Families can also ride the Christmas express train at Amberley Museum to visit Santa in the 19th century train ticket office! This year Father Christmas will be arriving early each day to have breakfast with families from 9am in the cafe. (This breakfast sitting is pre-book only).

Pre-book your tickets online.

Visit Father Christmas + museum admission: Adults £10, Children £16, Under 4s £8.

10am - 5pm.

Families Sussex Coast Magazine | 11

What's On 1, 2, 8 and 9 December Sail to Santa

Arundel Wetland Centre, Mill Road, Arundel BN18 9PB

Board an elf-powered boat for a gentle ride through the reedbeds to visit Father Christmas and receive a WWT goody bag. Book your timed ticket online for £8 per child, event cost does not include centre admission price. Visit wwt.org.uk/arundel for more information

Weekends in December Santa's Charity Grotto

Mayberry Garden Centre, Portslade, BN41 1SP

See Santa in his grotto courtesy of The Lions, raising funds for local good causes.

Late night extravaganza on 28th November from 4-8pm.

1 – 2 December Christmas Market

Brighton Palace Pier, Madeira Drive, BN2 1TW

Brighton Palace Pier's annual Christmas Market will take place in Horatio's Bar this December. Browse the festive stalls, visit Santa in his grotto and soak up the festive atmosphere! 10am - 5pm.

1 – 2 December Tabby McTat

-4-year-olds and their adults.

The theme for this session is winter! 10am / Tickets £5.

1 December Etsy Christmas Market

Phoenix Brighton, 10-14 Waterloo Place, BN2 9NB, 01273 603 700

Brighton Dome, Church Street, BN1 1UD, 01273 709709

The popular annual Brighton Etsy Christmas market is the perfect opportunity to shop local and independent, with unique ideas for all tastes and budgets. From homewares and jewellery to skincare and art. 10am - 5pm.

1 December Family Fun Workshops

Enjoy working as a family to explore different materials in these relaxed, fun workshops with Phoenix artists. All you need is your imagination and a willingness to get stuck in!

Free, drop-in sessions suitable for families with children aged 5-14yrs. 11am – 1pm and 2 – 4pm.

Weekends in December Christmas at Blackberry Farm

1 – 2 December Tudor Christmas

Michelham Priory, Hailsham, BN27 3QS

Get into the Tudor festive spirit with re-enactors in the house displaying what Christmas in Tudor times was really like. Enjoy Tudor games, food demonstrations, Tudor Christmas crafts and much more! 10:30am - 5pm. Normal admission charges apply.

1 December Stories with Skip - Winter Wonderland

Theatre Royal Brighton, 35 Bond Street, BN1 1SD, 01273 764400

Connaught Theatre, Union Place, Worthing, BN11 1LG, 01903 206206 Interwoven with original songs, Tabby McTat is the heart-warming tale of

friendship and loyalty from the team behind Stick Man Live and Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales. Various show times.

Tickets £12.50 / Family of four £46.

A perfect introduction to Theatre Royal Brighton for little ones, with stories, puppets, games, mini makes and lots of joining in for 2

Blackberry Farm, Whitesmith, Near Lewes, BN8 6JD, 01825 872912

Every weekend this December get into the festive spirit and enjoy a family day out at Blackberry Farm Park. Head out on a trail around the farm, looking for Father Christmas’ boots, which the naughty elves have hidden! Solve the Christmas themed word and collect a gift. There are many other activities happening too, with fun Christmas crafts in the seasonally decorated barn and Minnie the Donkey will be visiting for story time and photos throughout the day. Normal admission charges apply.

8 – 9 and 15 – 16 December Worthing Winter Wonderland and Santa's Grotto

Field Place Manor House and Barns, The Boulevard, Worthing, BN13 1NP 01903 446401

Step into a world of magic and wonder this Christmas as Field Place Manor House welcome you to their Winter Wonderland. Join in with Christmas crafts with the elves, plus festive food and drink will be available to purchase.

Visit Santa hourly from 9am to 2pm & 2:30pm to 5:30pm. Call 01903 446401 to book your tickets and avoid disappointment as these sessions sell out quickly. £12.95 per child.

1, 8 and 15 December Arty Crafty Club

Hove Museum, 19 New Church Road, Hove, BN3 4AB

Creative kids will love the Arty Crafty Club at Hove Museum. Each club takes a gallery of the museum as its theme to try out different making methods and skills.

Children will have the chance to try their hand at a range of techniques, including animation, clay, sewing, woodwork and more. Suitable for ages 8 - 12 years. There is no need to pre-book for these sessions. 2pm - 4pm / £6.50 per workshop.

2, 9, 16 and 23 December Sunday Lunches with Santa

The American Express Community Stadium, Brighton, BN1 9BL, 01273 878272

Special Sunday lunches featuring a fantastic festive menu and visit from Santa as well as a gift for each child. Advance booking and payment is required to secure your table. / £26 per adult / £13 per child.

3, 10 and 17 December Hove Museum Minis

Hove Museum, 19 New Church Road, BN3 4AB

Pre-schoolers will love this craft and storytelling club at Hove Museum. These are drop-in sessions, suitable for ages 2-5 years. 10am - 12pm / £2 per child.

4 – 8 December Madagascar – A Musical Adventure

Theatre Royal Brighton, 35 Bond

Street, BN1 1SD, 01273 764400

Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hip Hippo and, of course, those hilarious, plotting penguins as they bound onto your stage in the musical adventure of a lifetime. (Please note, children under the age of five will not be admitted). Various Times Please See website.

4 December Babies in Museums

Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, Royal Pavilion Gardens, BN1 1EE, 03000 290900

A session especially for babies and toddlers aged up to 18 months and their parents/carers. Play and learn together in the stimulating environment of the museum.

Booking is essential. £5 per child plus museum admission.

11am - 1pm

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7 December – 13 January Cinderella

Devonshire Park Theatre, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BW

Eastbourne’s 2018 pantomime is Cinderella. Various times / From £14.50.

7 and 14 December Mr Booth’s Mini-Museum Explorers

Booth Museum of Natural History, 194 Dyke Road, BN1 5AA, 03000 290900

These sessions for 2-5 year olds include art activities, a museum expedition, a story and handling some museum objects and a different theme each time. Book in advance by telephoning the Events Booking line on (Mon-Fri), or in person, or online. 10am 11:30am. £5 per child.

8 December Free Day at Brighton Museum: The Snowman™

Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, Royal Pavilion Gardens, BN1 1EE, 03000 290900

Brighton Museum hosts a free day once a month, with family activities and a chance to get up close and personal to objects not usually on display.

With Christmas around the corner, take a break from shopping and get creative with activities and workshops inspired by The Snowman™ exhibition. 11am - 4pm.

8 December Brighton Dome Christmas Open Day

Brighton Dome, Church Street, BN1 1UD, 01273 709709

Join Brighton Dome for a feast of family-friendly Christmas cheer! Dust off your finest Christmas jumper for the ultimate festive photo opportunity, running from 11.30am–1pm and 1.45pm– 4pm, plus there’ll be craft activities for the youngest visitors. 11am - 4pm

8 December Skips Family Workshop Making Madagascar

Theatre Royal Brighton, 35 Bond Street, BN1 1SD, 01273764400

Children and their grownups make, play and have fun together in these creative workshops at Theatre Royal Brighton. This workshop is suitable for 5 - 10-yearolds and children must be accompanied by an adult. To celebrate Madagascar the Musical on stage, today’s workshop will be making

9, 16, 21, 22 & 23 December Festive Cruises on The Wey & Arun Canal

Loxwood, West Sussex

The extremely popular Santa Cruises will be running again this December. Trips depart at 11am, 12noon and 2pm and cost £10 per person to include festive refreshments and a gift from Santa for all children under 12 years of age (under 12 months are free). There is also a Santa Cruise for the Grown-ups on Friday 14th December, 7.30-9pm. Santa says that Christmas is not just for the children and invites adults to join him for a 90 minute trip along the canal whilst enjoying a glass of mulled wine and snacks, and seasonal festive music. Santa will also have a small gift for everyone!

Tickets cost £16 per person. Booking in advance is essential for all the trips. Full details (including Boxing Day and New Year’s Day trips) are available on www. weyandarun.co.uk and bookings can be made online. Alternatively call the office on 01403 752403 or email office@ weyandarun.co.uk. puppets inspired by the animals in the show. There’ll be time for a bit of ‘Move It, Move It’ dancing too! 10:30am / Tickets £7.50.

9 December Brighton Festival Chorus Christmas Concert

Join Brighton Festival Chorus, Brighton Festival Youth Choir and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra for this annual highlight. Get in the festive spirit with all the family, and join in this joyous and humorous celebration of the very best of Christmas music, including the chance to sing your favourite carols. 4pm / Tickets range from £12.50 £28.50

13 – 31 December Robin Hood

Ropetackle Arts Centre, Little High Street, Shoreham By Sea, BN43 5EG, 01273 464440

Robin Hood promises to be the Ropetackle’s funniest, biggest and boldest pantomime yet, with all the usual madness and mayhem everybody has come to expect in Shoreham at Christmas time! Various times / Various prices.

Brighton Dome, Church Street, Brighton, BN1 1UD, 01273 709709

The Choir with No Name, an organisation that runs choirs for homeless and marginalised people, bring their London, Liverpool and

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15, 16, 20, 21, 22 and 23 December Father Christmas at Preston Manor Brighton Preston Manor, Brighton, Preston Drove, BN1 6SD, 03000 290902

Experience the magic of Christmas as Father Christmas and his Elf return for a traditional nostalgic treat for all the family with the added fun of children’s trails and dressing-up. £10 per child + normal admission charges

13 – 16 Tabby McTat

Brighton Dome, Church BN1 1UD, 01273 709709

13 December Brighton's Big Christmas Singalong

Birmingham choirs to Brighton for the musical highlight of the yuletide season! Expect all the Christmas classics as well as a chance to join in and be part of this unique, feel-good event. 7:30pm / £12.

The Old Market, 11a Upper Market

Street, Hove, BN3 1AS

Interwoven with original songs, Tabby McTat is the heart-warming tale of friendship and loyalty from the team behindTiddler and Other Terrific Tales. 60 mins (no interval). various show times / £10.

15 – 23 December Pirates of the Carabina present HOME

Brighton Dome, Church Street, Brighton, BN1 1UD, 01273 709709

14 – 31 December Peter Pan

This Christmas, take your seats for the ingenious new circus show from the trailblazing company of world-class performers, musicians and acrobats behind FLOWN - a huge hit at Brighton Festival 2014 and again at Brighton Dome in 2015. Various show times / Tickets from £10.

Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts, University of Sussex Campus, BN1 9RA, 01273 606755

JW Productions presents Peter Pan. With a sprinkle of fairy dust and plenty of surprises, this is the perfect festive treat for all the family. Various times / Adult from £15 / Child from £14.50 / Family from £55.

15 – 17 December Nest: Sensory theatre experience for babies

15 December Christmas Craft Day

Brighton Dome, Church Street, Brighton, BN1 1UD, 01273 709709

Hove Museum, BN3 4AB

A family craft day with lots of free activities on offer, or join a Christmas decoration workshop and make a gift for family or a friend. Free dropin activities are available during the day from 10am5pm. Christmas decoration workshops: 10.30-11.30am & 2.15-3.15pm, £4 per person, advance booking possible.

Suitable for 5 years and over.

Nest is a multi-sensory experience for pre-walking babies and their parents and carers. Unfolding in a custom-built performance tent, Nest takes audiences on a journey through the seasons, using playful poetry, song, captivating movement and tactile and sensory play. various show times / Tickets £10 (1 adult + 1 baby).

Families Sussex Coast Magazine | 13

What's On

and willow lanterns they've made through the city, before passing them into a huge bonfire on the beach. The coming year is then ushered in with a dazzling fire show during which a massive fire sculpture is ignited, live music plays, and fireworks light up the sky. From 6:30pm

21 – 23 December Santa’s Little Trolls

Connaught Theatre, Union Place, Worthing, BN11 1LG, 01903 06206 With silliness, laughter and stunning puppets, Pickled Image present a magical Christmas extravaganza – Santa’s Little Trolls. Various show times / Tickets from £12.50 / Family of four £46

15 December Christmas Decoration Making

Alfriston Clergy House, Polegate, BN26 5TL, 01323 870001

Prepare for Christmas with this natural decoration workshop at Alfriston Clergy House.

Make beautiful handmade decorations using natural materials: wreaths, mobiles, pomanders and cards. 11am - 3:30pm. Normal admission charges apply + £2 per craft activity.

16 December The Salvation Army Concert

Royal Hippodrome Theatre, Eastbourne, BN21 3PF, 01323 802020 The Salvation Army bring their annual Christmas carol Concert back to the Royal Hippodrome Eastbourne.

This fund raising event will put you right in the mood for Christmas. Sing carols and enjoy the band, songsters and the young people of Eastbourne Citadel Salvation Army. 3pm / £11.

16 December – 2 January Nellie Limelight and the Oysters of Time

Theatre Royal Brighton, 35 Bond Street, BN1 1SD, 01273 764400

Follow intrepid detective, Nellie Limelight, as she endeavours to put things right, and on the way find the answer to some of life’s great questions: What happens when a glow worm loses its glow? Who’s really in charge of the weather? And, of course, What’s an Oyster’s favourite song? Nellie attempts to solve

14 | Families Sussex Coast Magazine

her most peculiar case to date in this seasonal adventure around Theatre Royal Brighton for 4 – 7 year olds and their grown-ups! various show times / Tickets £14.50.

20 - 29 December Jack and the Beanstalk

Hilton Brighton Metropole, King's Road, Brighton, BN1 2FU,

Join Jack in this hilarious pantomime tale as he tries to outwit the evil giant and win the hand of the princess he loves. There will also be a Magical Christmas Fayre, which will be open before and after the show and entry to the Fayre is free for all panto ticket holders. Various times / Tickets from £19.99.

2- - 31 December Long Nose Puppets Present Out Of The Hat Komedia, 44-47 Gardner St, Brighton, BN1 1UN

Long Nose Puppets present a show for all the family, especially 2-8 year olds. Out of the Hat is a story about friendship and true magic, full to the brim with lively songs

by Tom Gray of Gomez that will have everyone joining in! various show times / Adult £10 / Child £8 / Family £32.

20 – 22 December A Christmas Spectacular

Royal Hippodrome Theatre, 108-112 Seaside Rd, Eastbourne, BN21 3P 01323 80 20 20 The Rattonians always know how to get everyone in the

right mood for Christmas!

This year sees them working alongside Trapdoor Productions to bring a show packed with seasonal favourites, glamour, dancing and a special visit from Santa!

Perfect entertainment for all ages. various show times / Adult £16.50 / Child £8 / Family £40

20 – 31 December Mischief and Mystery in Moomin Valley

The Old Market, 11a Upper Market Street, Hove, BN3 1AS

Magical puppetry, an ingenious pop-up book set, original music and interactive play will delight young audiences and encourage them to immerse themselves in a unique participatory story-telling. Expect snow, surprises and plenty of Moomin mischief! various show times / £8.50.

21 December Brighton Burning the Clocks Parade Bonfire and Fire Show Brighton City Centre and Beach, BN2 1TW

Burning the Clocks has been a Brighton tradition for two decades. The annual Brighton lantern parade and bonfire brings the whole city together to celebrate the winter solstice - the shortest day of the year.

You can join the community lantern parade by purchasing a lantern kit from supporting shops around Brighton.

The celebration sees local residents parading the paper

24 December The Snowman and Peter and The Wolf

Brighton Dome, 29 New Road, BN1 1UG, 01273 700747

This double bill of family favourites starts with Prokofiev's introduction to the instruments of the orchestra, told through the brave boy Peter's quest to capture a hungry wolf. Then classic Christmas film The Snowman shown on the big screen, with Howard Blake's famous score, including the song Walking in the Air, performed by a live orchestra. 12.30pm (Relaxed performance) & 3pm / Tickets from £10.

29 – 30 December Sleeping Beauty

Brighton Dome, Church Street, BN1 1UD, 01273 709709

Now in their sixth Christmas season in Brighton, join Ballet Theatre UK’s talented young company of international dancers for a magical Christmas outing for the whole family. This enchanting production, set to Tchaikovsky’s glorious music, reawakens the magic of the world’s favourite fairy tale.

2.30pm & 7.30pm / Tickets range from £10 - £19.50

22 - 23 December, 26 December – 1 January Crafts for Kids

Arundel Wetland Centre, Mill Road, Arundel BN18 9PB

The craft room at Arundel wetlands Centre is open every afternoon to keep little hands busy during the winter holidays. 2 - 4pm.

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Indoor Winter Fun!

During the winter months, there’s no avoiding spending much more time indoors. It’s tempting to allow the kids to while away the time on devices or playing on their Xbox. But there are ways of keeping your kids off their screens and still having fun - Here’s Families guide to some fun bad-weather-day activities.

Make a Cardboard Town

Festive Dark Chocolate and Berry Vegan Muffins Jessica Prescott author of Vegan Goodness says that baking is always her favourite thing to do at this time of year.

“My son Louie loves helping me in the kitchen and I feel that getting him involved is a great way for him to connect with food and the process of turning raw ingredients into delicious creations.”

“Because he is still little, we stick mostly with baking for now. Muffins are a great one - I measure out all of the ingredients and get him to line the muffin tray with little paper cups, and then he adds the ingredients to a bowl one by one and we both have a turn at mixing. These muffins are great for Christmas time, especially if you roll them in dehydrated raspberry powder to give them a festive hue.”

To make decadent dark chocolate and berry muffins: • Heat the oven to 180°C. • Line a muffin tin with paper muffin cups.

• Combine 250ml of soy milk, 1tsp of apple cider vinegar, 1tsp of pure vanilla extract, 2 tsps of chia seeds and 3 tablespoons of coconut or olive oil in one bowl.

• Sift 125g of spelt flour, 60g of millet flour, 100g of sugar, 1tsp of baking powder and 1tsp of bicarbonate of soda into another bowl and then add 200g of frozen berries and 100g of dark, vegan chocolate.

Roughly combine.

• Make a well in the centre of the mixture and pour in the wet ingredients until just combined. Spoon the mixture into the muffin cups and sprinkle with the toppings, some extra dark chocolate and 3tbs of puffed quinoa.

Get hold of a giant cardboard box or add lots of small ones together to make a town using large felt tips or paint. Let their imaginations run riot, and they can add cars and wooden/ plastic people to make it more realistic.

Set Up an Indoor Treasure Hunt Write some cryptic clues and hide a treasure trail of items for them to find. They may want to design one for you to do too!

Make Slime Batten down the hatches, get the aprons out and be prepared for a tsunami of a mess in your kitchen. This activity is satisfyingly messy and great fun. Get your children to research how to make the best slime or playdoh on YouTube (it’s for educational purposes after all).

Get Cooking If you aren’t keen on the slime idea, get the kids to cook you a meal instead. This is satisfying for them but also a treat for you (hopefully!). Suggest they plan a three-course meal for dinner. Get them to design a menu and research how to make the dishes online or refer to some recipe books. I think getting them to look in the fridge and come up with some dishes with ingredients you already have teaches them a great a life skill too. A pasta sauce or an apple crumble are tasty, rewarding but simple dishes to make. If you have smaller children baking something simple like fairy cakes or biscuits would obviously be more appropriate.

Rummy, look up some cool card tricks for them to learn and show their friends.

Make Special Cards Get out the art supplies and card and make some Christmas and birthday cards. Why don’t you get creative with Origami? My kids love making butterflies and birds and sticking them onto cards.

Have a Kitchen Disco My favourite thing to do on a rainy day is to have a party in the kitchen. Choose the most appropriate room in your house and sort a great playlist of music that will get the whole family moving. Have a ‘dance off’ with your kids.

Make a Magazine Set up a news desk in the house and decide what the magazine is going to be about.

Think up a great name and get someone in the “team” to design the front cover. Send out some roving reporters to write some news stories and create some fun features. The whole family can get involved!

Set up a Racing Track Use masking tape to create a huge car-racing track around the house or living room, create a second track alongside it and get the toy cars out and race away!

Get Active You could make an indoor obstacle course or try hula hooping or skipping in the living room. To make it more interesting, do some timed challenges. You could also create indoor hopscotch with masking tape.

Balloon Ping Pong or Table Tennis Blow up some balloons and use some table tennis bats or make your own with some sticks and paper plates. Alternatively, if you have a table tennis set, drag out the dining table, set up the net and hold a tournament. Hours of fun!

By Claire Winter

Play Cards Teach the kids the card games you used to play as a child. If you can’t get them interested in Patience or Gin

• Bake in the oven for 40 minutes, cool on a wire tray and then tuck into your delicious vegan treat!

Vegan Goodness: Feasts by Jessica Prescott (Hardie Grant, £15) is available to buy on Amazon.

familiesonline.co.uk

Families Sussex Coast Magazine | 15

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