Families Cardiff & Vale Magazine (September/October 2019)

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Cardiff & Vale IN THIS ISSUE

New clubs & classes to try this autumn Best family events and great days out!

Behind the scenes at Cardiff Castle

Issue 3 September/October 2019

email: editor@familiescardiff.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Ystyried Maethu?

Ystyriwch Gyngor Caerdydd!

Thinking of Fostering? Think Cardiff Council!

Ydych chi:

Are you:

• Yn frwd dros wella bywydau pobl ifanc Caerdydd?

• Yn gallu cynnig gofal, arweiniad a chymorth i bobl ifanc Caerdydd?

• Eisiau ennill incwm ychwanegol neu’n ystyried newid gyrfa?

Gallwch chi faethu!

Ffoniwch ein Tîm Gofal Maeth yn uniongyrchol ar 029 2087 3797.

Mae ein tîm ar gael o Ddydd Llun i Ddydd Iau o 8.30am tan 5pm ac ar Ddydd Gwener o 8.30am tan 4.30pm

www.gofalmaethcaerdydd.co.uk

• Passionate about bettering the lives of Cardiff’s young people?

• Able to provide care, guidance and support to Cardiff’s young people?

• Interested in earning an additional income or maybe considering m a change of career?

Then you could foster!

Call our Fostering team direct on 029 2087 3797.

Our team are available Monday - Thursday 8.30am - 5pm and Friday 8.30am - 4.30pm

www.fostercarecardiff.co.uk

Cardiff & Vale

Head of sales Natasha Gudgeon natasha.gudgeon@familiespublishing.co.uk 07767 893807 Design: Sarah Harmer Contributors: Andrew Campbell, Donna Loring, Claire Winter.

Next issue: November/December 2019 Booking deadline: 1 October 2019

Distribution: Families Cardiff & Vale magazine reaches 240,000 parents, grandparents and carers annually, throughout Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan. We distribute throughout key postcodes across the boroughs, and venues including primary schools, state and private nurseries, libraries, soft play centres, leisure centres and attractions, retail outlets, coffee shops and at key family events. To enquire about becoming a distributor, or taking out a private subscription, email editor@familiescardiff.co.uk.

From the editor We all want to give our kids the very best chance in life, offering them every opportunity to develop new skills and friendships. But it’s heartwarming to know that future success isn’t the primary reason we encourage our children to join drama clubs, play an instrument or learn to swim. The main reason for our extracurricular planning, agreed by 58% of parents surveyed by education consultancy GK, is that our children simply love their chosen activity. Whether you’re looking to get your little ones into sports, music or something entirely different, we’ve some great ideas in our clubs and classes special starting on page 10. Enjoy!

Rebecca Lewis Managing Editor

Contents

Managing editor Rebecca Lewis editor@familiescardiff.co.uk 07813 955290

In every issue

Features

4 News The inside scoop on family life 5 Books Raising kids who love to read 8-9 What’s on The best events this autumn 13 Directory Clubs, classes and events near you 14 Behind the scenes Exploring Cardiff Castle

6-7 Education update Essential info for the new term

Let’s be friends!

Facebook “f ” Logo

Follow Families Cardiff & Vale magazine on social media for even more family news, competitions, special offers and ideas for days out with the kids.

CMYK / .eps

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10-12 Clubs & classes special Our essential guide to finding new extracurricular activities they’ll love.

An unforgettable journey to Santa’s grotto!

CMYK / .eps

@FamiliesCardiff Distributors Wanted Penarth

Cardiff & Vale

Are you looking for some extra income? Do you have a few hours spare for 1 day every two months within school hours?

Families Cardiff & Vale Magazine is looking for a distributor to deliver our magazine to local schools, nurseries, retail outlets and other family attractions around Penarth. If you live in the area, are reliable, have a car and can commit to making deliveries every two months, please email us for more information: editor@familiescardiff.co.uk

Dates:

23, 24 & 30 November, 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 18-22 December inclusive.

Times: 10.30, 12.00, 1.30, 3.00, 4.30 every day.

Prices:

Adults £15.50, Children (2-15) £14, Under 2s Free.

Starting early November 2019

Families Cardiff & Vale 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 Cardiff & Vale are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Cardiff & Vale. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Cardiff & Vale, its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.© Families Cardiff & Vale September/October 2019.

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Enjoy a magical Christmas experience for the whole family, travelling from Pant Station by steam locomotive to meet Santa Mulled wine and mince pies in his grotto.

Booking: 01685 722988 www.bmr.wales email: editor@familiescardiff.co.uk

for adults, and a gift for every child included in the price.

3

NEWS news in brief

Active girls are happier Girls who are physically active are happier and more resilient, finds a survey of primary and secondary–aged children by Youth Sport Trust. The more active girls showed higher levels of the qualities associated with wellbeing, such as self-belief, confidence, resilience and empathy. Furthermore, 75% of active girls said they were happy, compared with just 55% of less active girls.

Thinking of fostering?

Think Cardiff Council...

Would you like to use your skills to make a difference to the lives of Cardiff’s young people? Do you want a role where you can develop both personally and professionally?

Are you looking for an additional source of income?

Yes? Then, fostering with Cardiff Council could be for you.

Cardiff currently has almost 900 cared for children and the Council is responsible for ensuring they are placed within loving and supportive families that will help them to thrive.

Being a Foster Carer is an incredibly rewarding role. Every day you’ll be using your skills, knowledge and insight to support Cardiff’s children to flourish and grow. And there has never been a better time to foster with Cardiff Council as the authority offers a benefits and rewards package that means people who foster through the Council are

better supported, financially, professionally and emotionally, than ever before.

The package includes tailored training and development opportunities, holistic therapeutic

support and access to a wide range of staff benefits. If you’re interested and want to find out more, get in touch with our friendly fostering team.

Call 029 2087 3797 or visit www.fostercarecardiff.co.uk for more information.

Cardiff’s Child Friendly City strategy The UN Convention states that all children have the right to play. Cardiff Council is helping Cardiff children exercise this right through its Street Play progamme, whereby families can apply to have their local street closed for up to two hours a month for children to play safely. The initiative is part of a drive to make Cardiff a Unicef Child Friendly City, a programme that aims to ensure the voices of Cardiff’s children and young people are heard.

Dads struggle with the early days It’s well documented that new mothers can experience mental health problems. But new research suggests that at least 10% of new fathers also suffer from depression, and experience feelings of guilt and failure to live up to societal expectations to be stoic, strong and support providers. For resources on fatherhood and mental health, visit www.nct.org.uk/life-parent.

Visit Santa on our new Picky eaters still grow up Steam Locomotive healthy at Brecon Mountain Railway

Santa Teresa No1 was built in Philadelphia USA in 1897, and worked many years on the Coffee Plantations in Brazil before being brought to the UK in 1990.

The B.M.R. purchased the locomotive in 2002 in very poor condition. It was rebuilt and restored in the workshops, finally making its much anticipated maiden launch in June 2019.

Travel on Santa Teresa No1 this Christmas to visit Santa at his Grotto. Every Child and Baby

4 Families Cardiff & Vale September/October 2019

will receive a lovely present, and there’s mulled wine and mince pies for the grownups. Look out for Santa’s helpers who will be waiting to greet you.

Call into the gift shop for some last-minute shopping, or for a reminder of your special visit. Welcoming hot drinks and snacks are available all day in the cafe.

Call 01685 722988 or visit www.bmr.wales.

Babies and toddlers who are fussy with their mealtimes – refusing to try anything new, or wanting to eat the same, limited foods at every meal – can be a huge source of stress for parents.

But new research suggests that carers can afford to worry less about the future health implications of a picky eating phase.

Data gathered during a Bristol University study of children aged 7–17, found that kids who had been picky eaters at the age of three, were growing normally as adolescents, with a healthy height and weight.

The researchers conclude that picky pre-schoolers will usually eat well enough over time to ensure they grow properly and are not impacted by an early fussy phase. www.familiesonline.co.uk

BOOKS

New book for Welsh schools highlights lost nature words Independent Welsh publisher Graffeg had launched a Crowdfunder campaign to gift a copy of Geiriau Diflanedig, Welsh-language edition of The Lost Words, to every primary school in Wales, in response to the loss of nature words from everyday use.

The award-winning book, by Robert Macfarlane, Jackie Morris

and Mererid Hopwood began as a response to the removal from the Children’s Oxford English Dictionary of common nature-related words, such as wren, acorn, bluebell and kingfisher, on account of those words not being used enough by children to merit inclusion.

Exposing a disconnect between people and the environment, the book aims to recapture the magic

of nature through poetry and illustration.

Now Graffeg hopes to raise £16,700 to cover the cost of donating a Welsh-language copy to each of the 1,287 primary schools in Wales.

Original paintings, jigsaws and hardback copies are available as incentives to donators.

Find out more at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/geiriau-diflanedig-for-primary-schools-in-wales.

Autism friendly sessions at Newport Library

A quiet friendly place where you can use the Library in peace.

NEWPORT CENTRAL LIBRARY John Frost Square, Newport NP20 1PA

Newport Central Library is offering sessions which give people on the spectrum access to a library environment on a day when it’s closed to the rest of the public.

The sessions will enable people with autism freedom to explore and use the facilities in relative peace and calm, taking

time to choose and issue books without external stresses.

Activities include storytime, singing, crafts, tours of the inhouse museum and art gallery, LEGO, and coding.

The sessions run on the third Monday of every month, from 3.30–5pm, with last admission at 4pm.

For more information call 01633 656656 or email lending.library@newport.gov.uk.

Wondering what to read the kids this Halloween?

Psychologists say that far from giving children nightmares, ghost stories and grisly fairy tales can actually help kids cope with everyday fears, develop resilience and prepare for real life obstacles.

TIP!

www.newport.gov.uk/autismlibraries

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Please tell advertisers you saw them in Families Cardiff & Vale Magazine.

5

EDUCATION UPDATE

Register your interest in a new Cardiff school A group of parents, educationalists and professionals are hoping to start a new school in the Cardiff area.

With the backing of one of the top free schools in England, they hope to found a new school, built on the foundation of the Christian faith, though open to all faiths and none. There would be an emphasis on building character and an enterprising spirit, a broad curriculum studying the best literature, science and art the world has produced, underpinned with high standards of both discipline and pastoral care.

They are currently at an early stage and are seeking expressions of interest from parents who might be interested in sending their

Tuition that builds confidence at every stage By the team at Bespoke Education

children. The school aims to cater for pupils from 3 to 18, and would open in September 2020 at the earliest.

For more information and to register interest, visit www.charlesspurgeonschools.co.uk/schools.

Here at Bespoke, we have a wealth of experience in teaching and learning; supporting all aspects of pupil wellbeing and challenging them to achieve.

We have helped so many students in a variety of subjects at both A Level and GCSE. However, our expertise begins with those much younger.

Offering small-group and one-to-one tuition from KS1 to KS5 at both of our centres, our professional, friendly and engaging tutors are focussed on building confidence in our students to achieve at all levels and exceed their own expectations.

Furthermore, we are experts in supporting statemented, anxious non-attenders through nurturing

and carefully planned learning tailored to each respective individual student; often where home-schoolers have found difficulties is in finding balance between home tuition and social wellbeing. Establishing rapport with, and building confidence in our students is at the very core of our ethos; we endeavour to help any and all!

Find out more at www.bespokeeducationservices.co.uk.

academic success

mutual respect positive relationships

knowledge skills character

In order to take this vision forward, we need to demonstrate a demand for a school like this, and we particularly need expressions of interest from parents whose children would potentially attend such a school.

charlesspurgeonschools.co.uk/schools

6 Families Cardiff & Vale September/October 2019

www.familiesonline.co.uk

EDUCATION UPDATE

How to make the The wellbeing dog best use of settlinghelping Cardiff in time at nursery pupils with anxiety

By Cherie Wilson, Acorns Nurseries Settling-in sessions will be timed to occur in the weeks prior to your child’s start date.

Nurseries recognise that some children need more time than others to get used to their surroundings and the staff who will be caring for them. I would suggest you take as many as your nursery offers, so your child will get used to the routine.

During the first session I would recommend that you remain with your child and familiarise yourself with the nursery and your child’s Key Carer. Thereafter, I would advise that your child is left in the care of the nursery nurses for short periods at different times of the day for each session, to experience all aspects of the

hustle and bustle of nursery life.

Making time for settling in is very important and will make the transition from home to nursery as smooth as possible for the child, the family and the nursery.

Find out more at www.acornsnurseries.co.uk.

Meet Georgie, the Labrador puppy and wellbeing dog, who’s helping Bishop of Llandaff pupils overcome anxiety.

At just a couple of months old, Georgie is settling in well to his important new role at the High School. He’s being slowly introduced to different groups of pupils – in between lots of naps – and is already having a positive impact.

‘Our students came to us and they’ve done some research and understood the benefits of having a wellbeing dog,’ Assistant Headteacher Joanna Thomas – who takes Georgie home each night – told ITV news.

‘We’ve got an increasing number of students coming into school who have maybe anxiety issues, or some mental health problems, and sometimes

just children need to come into school and reduce their anxiety.’

Georgie has her own office, with her bed and toys, where she can get some quiet time between spending time with the children, who say that Georgie’s arrival at the school is already helping reduce stress levels.

Follow Georgie’s adventures on Twitter @BOLHS_Georgie.

Tutorial Services • Personalised, tailored tuition from Primary to A level • English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities and more…

• Individual one-to-one sessions and small groups (4 students maximum) • Friendly, enthusiastic and encouraging tutors (DBS certified) • Safe, supportive and welcoming environment • Confidence building Bespoke Education (Services) Ltd. Cardiff 1-3 City Road, Cardiff, CF24 3BJ

Cowbridge The Broad Shoard, Cowbridge, CF71 7DA

T: 07847 894 754

info@bespokeedu.uk www.bespokeeducationservices.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk

INDEPENDENT DAY & BOARDING EDUCATION FOR BOYS & GIRLS AGED 7-18 YEARS

in Brecon Beacons National Park www.christcollegebrecon.com 01874 615440 | admissions@christcollegebrecon.com

email: editor@familiescardiff.co.uk

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W H AT ’ S O N . S E P T E M B E R & O C T O B E R E FR

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EARLY BIRDS & EVENING EAGLES Treetop Adventure Golf, Cardiff Throughout Sep/Oct ongoing

£5 CINEMA TICKETS AND MORE The Red Dragon Centre, Cardiff Bay Throughout Sep/Oct ongoing

LEGO CLUBS Various Cardiff & Vale libraries Throughout Sep/Oct ongoing

Tee off before midday any day of the week, or between 5–7pm Mon-Fri and enjoy two rounds for the price of one.

Adults £8.50; under 5s £4; family of 4 £28. Find Treetop on level P3 of St David’s Centre. No booking required.

With 2D tickets at ODEON £5 all day, enjoy an autumn blockbuster alongside fun restaurants and state-of-the-art bowling alley at this popular entertainment centre.

Open daily ‘til late. Six hours free customer parking (min spend applies).

Building with Lego bricks encourages mindfulness and reduces stress in all ages. Growing in popularity, clubs run in Cowbridge, Penarth and Llantwit Major libraries, Grangetown, Llanishen, Llanrumney and Llanedeyrn hubs.

www.adventuregolf.com/cardiff

www.thereddragoncentre.co.uk

See local library/hub websites.

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ABERGAVENNY FOOD FESTIVAL Throughout Abergavenny Sat & Sun, 21 & 22 Sep

EUROPEAN LANGUAGE DAY Penylan Community Centre & Library 29 Sep, 10am–3pm

FOREST FARM AUTUMN OPEN DAY Warden Centre, Forest Farm Sat 5 Oct, 10.30am–3.30pm

Inspire kids to rustle up a feast at this family friendly festival. As well as free cookery classes for under 16s, there are family games and live music in the castle grounds. Booking essential. Adults pay £10 per day/£15 for weekend ticket.

Celebrate the 2019 European Day of Languages with this special event featuring a world language café, multilingual rhyme and story-time sessions for tots, multicultural music, arts and craft and lots more.

Come and see the apple press at work and taste the juice from the orchard.

Have a go at some wicker work, pond dipping, nature trails and walks on this fun day for the whole family led by the Friends of Forest Farm.

www.abergavennyfoodfestival.com

www.facebook.com/penylan.centre

www.facebook.com/forestfarmuk

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SLEEP OVER AT THE STADIUM Principality Stadium Sat 12 Oct, overnight

SPOOKY GYMNASTICS Cardiff Olympic Gymnastics, Ely Sat 27 Oct, 4–6pm

FABULOUS FUNGI Howardian Nature Reserve, Penylan Wed 30 Oct, 10am–3.30pm

A challenge event for young people aged 8–18. Spend the night at the iconic home of Welsh rugby whilst raising funds to end homelessness in Wales.

All under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.

Join the Halloween party for £6 including snacks. The following half term week, book on all-day gymnastics camps (£18 for ages 4+), plus £4 drop-in sessions for babies and toddlers.

Book via cardiffolympic@yahoo.co.uk.

Part of the free Wild Challenge Wednesday series run by the RSPB. Meet at the pond near the Ipswich Road entrance and see how many different shapes, colours and sizes of mushroom you can spot. Free.

www.llamau.org.uk/Event/sleepover-2019

www.cardiffolympicgymnastics.co.uk

www.rspb.org.uk/wildchallenge

We strive to make sure all information is up to date, but things can change at the last minute. Please check with the venue before you leave home.

8 Families Cardiff & Vale September/October 2019

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SCIENCE PIRATES Menter Caerdydd, (The Old Library) Sat 7&14 Sep, 10.30am-3.30pm

ROALD DAHL DAY National Waterfront Museum, Swansea Sat 14 Sep, 12–4pm

OPEN DOORS WALES: FREE ENTRY DAY Dyffryn Gardens Sat & Sun, 14 & 15 Sep, 10am–6pm

Join a group of Cardiff Uni scientists at The Hayes for this interactive, escape-room style, pirate-themed adventure game.

Kids will need to uncover clues about the biology of their bones to unearth the captain’s treasure. Suitable for all ages.

Make a date for splendiferous silliness celebrating a storyteller extraordinaire.

A free day of kooky crafts, tall tales and gloriumptious gobblefunk. The after-hours event (£7.50pp) includes gallery trail and film showing.

Explore all 55 acres of beautiful Dyffryn Gardens and the Victorian mansion for free during this open doors weekend.

The Italian garden trail is also free to explore – see how many Mediterranean features you can spot. Last entry 5pm.

www.facebook.com/sciencepirates

www.museum.wales/swansea

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dyffryn-gardens

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DIPPY ON TOUR! National Museum Cardiff 19 Oct–26 Jan

FESTIVAL OF RUNNING City Hall, Cardiff Sat 5 Oct, from 10am

EXPLORE OPERA DAY Wales Millennium Centre foyer Sat 5 Oct, 4pm–7pm

The iconic Diplodocus skeleton has been let loose from London’s Natural History Museum for the first time since 1905!

He’s coming to Cardiff as part of his ongoing mission to inspire 5 million UK visitors to discover his 292 bones.

Dig out your best animal fancy dress for this jungle-themed sports day, featuring a 50-metre toddler dash (£2 donation to NSPCC) and family fun run (£9pp/£30 group of 4). Medal-holding kids eat free in Brains pubs.

Join Welsh National Opera for a free family event which takes you behind the scenes of an operatic production, featuring demonstrations from wardrobe, props and make-up teams, as well as fun music and singing workshops.

www.nhm.ac.uk/dippyontour

www.cardiffhalfmarathon.co.uk

www.wno.org.uk/operadays FREE

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Cardiff & Vale

IN OUR LAUNCH ISSUE

What’s on: events not to miss Becoming a less ‘shouty’ parent BBC’s Lucy Owen on family life IN THIS ISSUE

Summer holiday special!

Great ideas for a brilliant school break.

Issue 1 May/June 2019

.co.uk email: editor@familiescardiff

familiesonline.co.uk Issue 2 July/August 2019

AUTUMN WILDLIFE IN BUTE PARK Bute Park Education Centre Fri 1 Nov, 10.30am–3pm

CRAFT FESTIVAL CARDIFF City Hall, Cathays Park Fri–Sun, 1–3 Nov, 10am–5pm

A day of free wildlife-themed activities for children and families come rain or shine. From leaf safaris, colour trails and guided park walks, to unusual wildlife exhibits and art and craft activities inside the centre.

Throughout the festival, children can enjoy drop-in, complementary workshops upstairs in City Hall. Join a host of inspiring makers and watch little hands and imaginations get busy.

Adult festival entry £7.

www.bute-park.com

www.craftfestival.co.uk

email: editor@familiescardiff .co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Showcase your Christmas events in the November/ December issue of Families Cardiff & Vale magazine.

Booking deadline: 1st October Contact: editor@familiescardiff.co.uk

Image credits: Roald Dahl Day: Roald Dahl Story Company/Quentin Blake 2019. Abergavenny Food Festival: Neil White. Dippy On Tour: Sam Bond.

www.familiesonline.co.uk

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9

CLUBS & CLASSES

1

3

Learn to swim with Puddle Ducks

Magical Baby Sensory clas ses

2 Climb with Boulde

rs

6 Dance, sing and perform with

e-oftbeeps’ stat

4 Hthare-art music

Jigsaw

5 Sing and play with Forte

Choosing extracurricular activities for your baby or child Whatever their age, trying a new activity or sport encourages children to be more adventurous and learn new skills.

Whether it’s a newborn’s earliest social interaction, a pre-schooler’s first foray into skills-building, or an older child’s development of a hobby or passion, extracurricular clubs and classes offer numerous benefits for both child and parent.

So if you’re looking to fill a

gap in your child’s schedule with a fun, enriching, social activity, here’s how you go about it...

Target their interests School may offer a wide range of classes and clubs from IT to sport. Local sports clubs, libraries and art centres are often teeming

Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools

dr ama singing dance Schools in:

Cardiff Cardiff West

NEW!

3–18 years

TWO WEEK TRIAL AVAILABLE. BOOK NOW!

T: 020 8447 4530 W: Jigsaw-arts.co.uk 10Families Cardiff & Vale September/October 2019

with opportunities to join classes and clubs.

For active kids, consider something challenging, such as climbing. Those interested in animals may find opportunities at your local zoo, petting farm or riding centre. While for the creatively inclined, investigate an art class, book club or a school newspaper.

While it’s more difficult to assess the interests of preschoolers or toddlers, most enjoy sensory or musical activities, or something physical like pre-school swimming or gymnastics.

Understand what’s stopping them Many children can be apprehensive about new experiences, but if your child is consistently shying away from trying activities, try to find out why. It could be a fear of not making friends or of being bullied. Or it might be low selfconfidence about their current skills or ability to learn something new. Or they might simply feel apprehension about being in a new environment. Once you know the cause of their anxiety, you can help address it.

If your toddler or pre-schooler is reluctant to join in a class,

By Claire Winter

participate in the activity alongside them or view from the side lines. It takes pre-schoolers time to get used to a new environment, but once they do, they usually throw themselves in with gusto.

Team up with other parents Ask other parents what activities their children are involved in for inspiration. You could even co-ordinate for your children to participate in the activity together. Simply knowing that their friends are interested in a new club or class may mean your child will be keener to get involved.

For pre-school and toddler classes, structured activities can keep your little one occupied for a while and give you a welcome chance to make friends with other parents who have children at the same age and stage.

Highlight the Benefits Focus on the positive things your child will gain by taking part in a particular sport or activity.

These could be a new social circle, certificates, medals or stickers, job or education opportunities in the future, greater confidence, getting fitter, or simply being with friends. www.familiesonline.co.uk

CLUBS & CLASSES

1 Develop confident swimmers while bonding

with your child at Puddle Ducks Puddle Ducks teaches children, from birth to 4 years, to swim independently, beautifully and confidently, and to love and respect the water.

Our child-led approach means our classes are the perfect way to bond with your little one, building confidence and trust whilst learning vital skills and having fun! We encourage our children to progress at their own pace, never forcing, never undermining.

Classes are packed full of fun – watch as

your little one develops into a confident swimmer without even realising they are learning to swim! We recognise that every child is different; our expert teachers individually tailor activities to suit your child’s ability and confidence levels.

Join us any time; we have classes in Cardiff, Newport and Caerleon on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

To join us or to book a free taster session call 07852 475906, email southeastwales@puddleducks.com or visit www.puddleducks.com/cardiff.

2 Experience the thrill of climbing with

Boulders’ Holiday Activity Clubs We want as many children as possible to experience the thrill of climbing, and a perfect way to introduce your child to the activity is through our Holiday Club.

As well as sorting your childcare needs, our Holiday Clubs allow children to climb in a positive, friendly environment with a group of their peers (and some very excited climbing instructors!).

The Holiday Clubs mix games, team challenges, activities and lots of climbing,

and are a much better way of spending the holidays than being sat in front of the telly!

We run our Holiday Club every weekday during the October half term holidays.

Prices: £29pp per day (10am-4pm); £39pp per day (8am-6pm). Lunch is included.

Children must be aged 7 and upwards to attend. We also offer 80-minute family climbing classes throughout the year!

Find out more at www.bouldersuk.com/kids-holiday-camps or call 02920 484880.

3 Science based magic with

Baby Sensory Cardiff East & West

Did you know that babies are born with more than 100 billion brain cells, and that soon after birth an astonishing two million new connections are formed every second?

These connections grow and strengthen when babies use their senses, and through actions and experiences encountered from birth.

Everything we do at Baby Sensory is backed by scientific

research, carefully designed with your baby’s development in mind, and we’re passionate about sharing our knowledge.

Ours is a magical world, full of glowing balls, light shows, puppets, bubbles, rainbows, petals, massage, signing and songs. Together we’ll dance in the snow, dive under the waves, trek through a rainforest and sing the shanties of sea pirates!

For more information on classes in Whitchurch, Roath or Lisvane contact Amy on cardiffeast@babysensory.co.uk.

For information on classes in Barry or Penarth contact Becci on cardiffwest@babysensory.co.uk. For more information visit www.babysensory.co.uk or see page 13. www.familiesonline.co.uk

email: editor@familiescardiff.co.uk

11

CLUBS & CLASSES

4 Journey through a magical soundtrack with Hartbeeps Hartbeeps is based on an award-winning formula of state-of-the-art music technology using hundreds of original songs and sound effects, alongside a whole host of magical ingredients, including puppetry, storytelling, lighting, raps, percussion and much more.

For newborn through to sitting, Baby Bells incorporates yoga, massage and calming techniques to guide little ones through a medley of remixed nursery rhymes and lullabies.

For sitting through to toddling, Baby Beeps is a bouncy, interactive development class with

a funky soundtrack and a spectacular range of props, from wacky characters to colourful parachutes.

In Happy House, toddlers (walking to four years) can bring along their older or younger siblings for a busy class of drama, creative play, dance and movement.

We also run Baby Rock Café, drop-in stay and play sessions where you can meet other parents while your tot discos! And finally, we offer party packages for ages 1-5, which will delight your birthday boys and girls and their friends.

For more information on class venues visit www.hartbeeps.com or see page 13.

5 Develop their musical abilities and so much more with Forte!

It’s long been proven that learning music is beneficial for children’s development in a variety of ways. Immersing babies and young children in a music-rich environment of interactive musical activities has been proven to have a positive effect on the intellectual abilities of young children.

By participating in music lessons, pre-school children pick up vital skills of listening, cooperation, following directions, exploration, confidence, social interaction, language development, body awareness, gross and fine motor skills and co-ordination.

For older children, learning an instrument

can have spin-off benefits: increased focus, memory, concentration, confidence, selfesteem, self-discipline and commitment, and improved reading and verbal skills.

As well as the developmental and educational benefits, learning music is a fun way for parents and children to spend their time together in an increasingly technological world. That 30 or 45 minutes of interaction, fun and creativity is the perfect antidote to a busy day at school and work!

For more information about Forte’s classes visit www.fortemusic.co.uk or see page 13.

Award-winning, sensory-rich development classes to support you and your baby.

Join us for an hour a week to immerse yourself and your baby in a world of incredible sensory experiences. Learn about your baby’s development and how to continue the fun at home, and make lasting friendships with local parents.

Designed from birth, you’ll never experience the same class twice!

For Whitchurch, Roath & Lisvane classes, contact Amy on cardiffeast@babysensory.co.uk For Barry & Penarth classes, contact Becci on cardiffwest@babysensory.co.uk www.babysensory.co.uk

12 Families Cardiff & Vale September/October 2019

6 A confident start with Jigsaw Performing Arts

A new school year is here – time to try something new with your weekend?

Our popular dance, singing and drama weekend classes for 3-18-year-olds are designed to develop children’s confidence, self-expression, focus and social skills, while having fun and making lots of new friends.

Parents share in the excitement of their children’s progress with regular presentations, shows and reports from our team of highly experienced teachers.

For more information or to book a two-week trial, search for your nearest school on our website www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk or call us on 020 8447 4530.

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Directory CLASSES & CLUBS Baby Sensory Cardiff Award-winning, sensoryrich development classes; designed to support you and your baby from birth. Regular exposure to an incredible range of sounds, smells, sights, textures, music, dance, signing and massage all help rapidly develop the brain in your baby’s first years. We’ve done the research; so you can enjoy the fun. Our wonderful classes run across Cardiff and the Vale, for more information and to book your local class visit www.babysensory.com Forte School Of Music (Llandaff) Immersing little people in music has proven intellectual benefits. Best of all, it’s loads of fun!

Introduce babies to new sounds; encourage tots to explore music; develop your older child’s instrumental abilities with small classes or solo tuition. Adult lessons available.

Book your free taster class. t: 029 2063 1340 e: fortecardiff@fortemusic.co.uk Hartbeeps Our award-winning classes combine an original soundtrack with a colourful array of magical props and techniques, from light effects to yoga, dance to percussion, to aid speech, language, movement, relaxation, and of course, fun! Classes run in Cyncoed (Mon), Llanishen (Tues), Caerphilly (Wed), Rhiwbina (Thurs) and Llanbradach (Fri), with parties and special events taking place over weekends.

For more information, contact your local Imaginator at lyndsey.stuart@hartbeeps.com, telephone 07880 333189.

Search for Hartbeeps Cardiff on Facebook or visit www.hartbeeps.com

SWIMMING Cwac Cwac’s Our bilingual classes provide a fun and safe swimming experience for your little one, while also offering an introduction to the Welsh language through song and play. We offer classes for each stage of the swimming journey: Baby Ducklings (0-2 years) is a lovely bonding experience for parent and child; Little Ducklings (2-3 years) promotes independence and confidence in the water; Mighty Ducks (3-4 years) teaches enhanced swimming and safety skills. Our Sun-Fri timetable of over 50 classes takes place at the Holiday Inn, Cardiff North, CF15 7LH.

71% www.familiesonline.co.uk

Puddle Ducks Swimming facilitates development of crucial higher brain functions, core muscles and co-ordination.

We provide fabulous, childled baby and preschool lessons from 0–4 years. Join any time; no need to wait for start of a term. Our highly trained and qualified teachers are experts at identifying children’s levels of ability and adapting activities to the individual, nurturing confidence and encouraging natural ability.

Lessons at Novotel Cardiff CF10 (Mon&Fri); Maes Ebbw School NP20 (Wed); DW Fitness NP20 (Sat); Mercure Cardiff Holland House CF24 (Sun); Llanhennock Lodge NP18 (Sun).

Call 07852 475906 or email southeastwales@puddleducks.com More info at www.puddleducks.com/cardiff

SCHOOL OPEN DAYS Situated within the Brecon Beacons National Park, Christ College is an independent co-educational boarding and day school, founded in 1541. In 2018, Christ College pupils excelled in the new linear GCSEs, achieving an overall 94% pass rate.

These outstanding results follow an ‘excellent’ Estyn inspection of Christ College, in which the school achieved the highest score possible in all five areas of judgement.

Today, the college welcomes 385 pupils aged 7-18.

Our next open day takes place on 21st September 2019.

To register please contact the admissions registrar, Mrs Margaret Stephens, on 01874615440, or via email on admissions@christcollegebrecon.com

PARTIES Superbowl UK Cardiff We’re the ultimate party venue, offering birthday packages for all ages to suit every budget. Keep things fun with bowling or laser quest. We can provide invitations, party pizza platters, face painting, party games and a dedicated host.

Book online, in centre or over phone.

Prices from £11.50 per child.

Weekday discounts available. Located in Stadium Plaza, Wood Street, CF10 1LA. 02922 331 333. cardiff@superbowluk.co.uk. www.superbowluk.co.uk/cardiff/

...of readers say they’re highly likely to respond to advertising in Families Magazine. Families Cardiff & Vale reaches 240,000 parents, grandparents and carers annually.

To showcase your class, club, party, workshop, open day or event in our directory, contact editor@familiescardiff.co.uk

PREGNANCY AND POSTNATAL National Childbirth Trust (NCT) Local services www.nct.org.uk/branches/Cardiff NCT Antenatal Courses: Courses available in Newport, Caerphilly, Canton, Whitchurch, Llanishen, Roath, Penarth, Cowbridge.

NCT Breastfeeding weekly drop-in support: Every Thursday 1–3pm, Ararat Centre, Plas Treoda, Whitchurch, CF14 1PT. NCT Baby Massage courses Llanishen and Penarth.

NCT Bumps & Babies group facebook.com/NCTCardiff/ Maes Y Coed Community Centre, CF14 Llanhilleth Miners Institute, Abertillery NCT Prams in the park facebook.com/NCTCardiff/ Every Thursday, Terra Nova Café, Roath Park NCT Red Cross baby first aid facebook.com/NCTCardiff/ The Nest The Nest Birth and Baby Studio in Llanishen is a safe and judgement-free zone for new mums, and home to The Daisy Foundation’s baby massage and yoga classes, run by fully-qualified and accredited perinatal supporter Laura Livingstone.

Mon 11am: baby yoga 4-8 mths; 12.20pm: baby massage/postnatal support for 0-5 mths; 1.30-3.30pm: informal drop-in coffee afternoon for mums and babies up to 2 years, £3.

Tues 1pm: baby massage.

Thurs: Coffee and chat with perinatal specialists; £6.

1pm: baby sensory play, story, rhyme for 8-18 mths). Book at thedaisyfoundation.com/ teacher/laura-livingstone/

BUY AND SELL MARKETS Kidsmarkets Nearly New Sales Buy and sell a huge selection of great quality pre-loved children’s toys, clothes and baby equipment, all at a fraction of the usual price! Thousands of items for boys and girls from 0-7 years, from woollies & wellies to buggies, cots and every toy imaginable! Bring babies in carriers if possible to avoid congestion. Secondhand Stalls £18, £1.50 entry adults, kids free!

Sunday 15th September, 11am–12.30pm, Cowbridge Comprehensive School, Aberthin Road, Cowbridge CF71 7EN. Free parking in the school.

Sunday 22nd September, 11am–12.30pm, The Paget Rooms, Victoria Road, Penarth CF64 3EG. On street parking.

Saturday 5th October, 11am–12.30pm, Howells School, Cardiff Road, Llandaff, CF5 2YD. Free parking. www.kidsmarkets.co.uk

Please tell advertisers you saw them in Families Cardiff & Vale Magazine.

13

THE LAST WORD

5 things you didn’t know about...

Cardiff Castle 1

Cardiff Castle has been drawing visitors for 2,000 years.

Cardiff Castle really is a magical building; you won’t find many others like it. It’s incredible to think that the Castle has been drawing people to the area, in one guise or another, for around 2,000 years. It’s really important that we do our best to maintain the Castle for the people of Cardiff and beyond.

I hope future generations will enjoy coming here for at least another 2,000 years.

5

Our Family Trail is a great way to encourage kids to explore history.

By Cardiff Castle’s Content & Marketing Officer, Aran Scarrott

2

4

You have to visit the spectacular Arab Room – and look up.

We’re lucky to have a whole host of spectacular rooms, but one that really stands out is the Arab Room. It was originally intended as a drawing room for the Bute family ladies and feels like a harem taken straight from the pages of Arabian Nights. The decoration is simply breath-taking but particularly so when you look up at the beautiful Muqarnas ceiling. Made from wood, its opulent appearance is due to the fact it was painstakingly hand covered in gold leaf.

Follow our special Family Trail around the grounds and you’ll meet some of the lively characters that have made Cardiff Castle their home over the centuries. Find the answers to the questions all around the Castle with a little help from Gwen the Celtic Girl and Marcius the Roman Soldier.

To follow the trail, ask for an audio guide at the ticket office or download our Official Tour app.

If you live or work in Cardiff, you can get a key to the Castle.

3

Halloween isn’t the only time you’ll have a spooky experience here.

The 2nd Marquess of Bute, the man who built Cardiff docks and was called the creator of modern Cardiff, died at Cardiff Castle on 18 March 1848, aged 54. He left his son, the 3rd Marquess, the richest baby in Britain, and it was this fortune that paid for the incredible interiors you see today. It has been said that the 2nd Marquess’ presence remains at the Castle and that if you visit on the anniversary of his death, you may catch the scent of his cigar smoke still lingering in the air.

14 Families Cardiff & Vale September/October 2019

After WWII, the Bute family gifted Cardiff Castle to the city, and as a result, anybody who lives or works in Cardiff is eligible for a Castle Key, enabling them to fully enjoy this incredible building. Apply for a key for unlimited free entry for three years (you can renew your key once your time has expired). Just visit the ticket office with proof of address or a letter from your employer. There’s an administration charge of £6.50 for adults (free for children).

The Castle Key also gets you 10% off in the gift shop and café, and discounts on special ticketed events.

This September at Cardiff Castle, Luna Cinema brings three blockbuster hits for magical evenings of entertainment under the stars. Book now for Bohemian Rhapsody, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, and Monty Python’s Life of Brian. For families, the Castle’s atmospheric 15th century undercroft is the perfect venue for the freaky films line-up showing around Halloween.

Find out more at www.cardiffcastle.com/whats-on

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Where little acorns grow...

It has been 30 years since we opened our very first Nursery in Oakfield Street. At Acorns Nurseries Limited we have watched proudly as some of our very first ‘Little Acorns’ have grown. In fact, a some of the children who started with us in the early years have returned to us as Nursery Nurses and even have their own children at Acorns.

Qualified and experienced Nursery Nurses and Early Years Teachers prepare children for a lifetime of learning. Chefs provide healthy and nutritious meals, prepared and cooked daily on site. Housekeepers, Gardeners and Maintenance staff all work together within our team to ensure each of our nurseries is an environment where your children feel safe, secure and most of all happy.

Each nursery offers large playrooms with designated areas for rest and active play as well as a wealth of the highest quality equipment for adventure and learning.

Children enjoy the benefits of outdoor play whatever the weather and we are fortunate to have some beautiful secure gardens with covered play areas. Acorns children enjoy our Forest School sessions, making mini beast mansions, wood cookies and learning about their natural environment.

Our open-door policy means that as a parent you can call in at any time to see Acorns life in action. You will be made to feel most welcome and our Managers will be happy to show you around and answer any questions you may have.

Acorns Nurseries Limited have 12 nurseries located in South Wales and Bristol.

Caring for babies and children from 6 weeks to 5 years old.

We are open from 7.30am to 6.00pm Monday to Friday, closing only on Bank Holidays.

Contact Us T: 02920 382 009 F: 02920 221 044 Becca.Rees@acornsnurseries.co.uk

www.acornsnurseries.co.uk

Get Bowled Over at Superbowl UK Located in Stadium Plaza, Superbowl UK Cardiff has fun covered for the whole family come rain or sunshine this Summer. So why choose Superbowl UK Cardiff?

We’ve highlighted 10 reasons to choose them!

1 Bowling is weather-proof!

Raining? No problem. Snowing? No problem. Heat wave? We have air conditioning... no problem.

2 There’s no equipment required!

You can just show up at the bowling alley, and we’ve got everything you need!

3 Bowling is great for groups of all sizes and we’ve got you covered.

Whether have a family reunion heading your way or just looking for something to do, bowling suits every occasion.

4 Almost anyone can do it. You can request ramps to help the youngest and oldest in your groups get the balls down the lane, and you can

pop those handy bumpers up for you on your off days. Oops, we mean for the kids. That’s right, for the kids.

5 It’s perfect for a little fun, healthy competition. We can’t encourage big-time betting, but a little “the loser does the dishes for a week” competition between spouses or siblings adds a whole new level of fun!

6 You can eat and drink while playing. How many sports have built in bars and grills for the players?

Beer or soft drink, fries or burgers — you really can’t beat it.

9 Parties - Have you ever tried

throwing a five-year-old’s birthday party at home? Well, you don’t need to worry - we cater for all occasions!

10 We’re conveniently located in

Stadium Plaza - right next to the Principality Stadium. Finish your shopping and then come and relax with the family at Superbowl UK. We’re open from 9am-Midnight every day.

7 Crazy celebrations aren’t just

encouraged, they are required! Dad’s celebration dance may just top your best moonwalk, but there’s one thing for sure, nothing’s too over the top when you finally conquer all 10 pins.

8 You get to sport great shoes.

Come on. When else do you get to wear freshly sanitised, tricolored beauties? Sport them with pride.

Book now: 029 2233 1333 Email: cardiff@superbowluk.co.uk

Situated in

www.superbowluk.co.uk/cardiff

*from selection. Management reserve the right to remove or change this offer.

Stadium Plaza, Wood Street, Cardiff CF10 1LA

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