Families Herts Issue 50 May-June 2013

FREE Issue No. 50 May/June 2013

It's our

50 th

issue so let's PARTY!

WIN a visit to Butterfly World WIN a party at Paradise Wildlife Park Willows Farm Village: Child Goes Free Voucher

Party Feature Education Women's Health Summer Camps Your child in the Stars What's On

The Herts magazine with the information young families want

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From your Editor…

In this issue:

We’ve got something to celebrate – this is our 50th issue! So, it is very appropriate that it contains our Party Feature. Our first issue was published in March 2005 and since then we have grown; in fact, this is our biggest issue yet.

In our party feature, Joanna Moorhead gives you the pros and cons of different types of party and her top tips on how to make all of them work. The Party Directory, featuring our advertisers, covers theatre parties, foodie parties, pony parties and more.

If your child has a birthday coming up, why not enter our competition to win a party for 10 children at Paradise Wildlife Park? Plus, there’s a chance to win a family pass to Butterfly World and a DVD of Robosapien!

The Summer Camps Feature will give those organised parents amongst us (and those that aspire to be so) an overview of the camps that are running this season. They all offer secure childcare and a fun experience for kids.

Before the holidays arrive, however, the SATs tests do! Child Psychologist, Dr Lucy Russell, advises your child and you about positive ways of coping with exam stress.

Capricorn, Leo or Pisces – is our child’s character and potential determined by their star sign?

Astrologer Sue Fletcher believes so and she has revealed the main character traits of each star sign.

See if your child matches her assessment.

News & Views: 4

Shelley Where are we? Baldock, Bishops Stortford, Borehamwood, Chorleywood, Harpenden, Hatfield, Hemel Hempstead, Hertford, Hitchin, Kings Langley, Knebworth, Letchworth, Radlett, St Albans, Stevenage, Ware, Welwyn GC. Pick it up from cafes, playgroups, nurseries, schools, activity groups, selected shops, surgeries, leisure centres and libraries. Get in touch to request copies for your venue.

Don’t miss a copy. Families Herts by post for just £9.30 for 6 issues (1 year) or £18 for 12 issues (2 years). Call or email for a subscription form.

Party Feature: 6 Summer Camps: 14 Education: 17 Star Child: 20 Women's Health: 22 Competitions: 23 What's On: 24 July/August deadline: 3rd June Next Issue: Summer Activities Image courtesy of © Alena Ozerova | Dreamstime.com

Families Herts, PO Box 434, Pinner, HA5 9AH Tel/Fax: 020 8428 6384 editor@familiesherts.co.uk www.familiesherts.co.uk

Say you saw it in

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News & Views Nickelodeon's Dora The Explorer LIVE! Search for the City of Lost Toys heads to the The Alban Arena on 10th – 12th.

Everyone’s favourite explorer is embarking on a LIVE musical adventure across the UK!

In Nickelodeon’s Dora the Explorer LIVE! Search for the City of Lost Toys, Dora has lost her teddy bear, Osito, and the search is on to retrieve him! With the help of the audience, Map, Backpack, Boots, Diego and their courageous friends, Dora uses her mapreading, counting, musical and language skills to successfully pass through the number pyramid and the mixed-up jungle to reach the City of Lost Toys. But watch out - you never know what that sneaky fox, Swiper, might be up to along the way! Dora the Explorer fans will delight in this two act, song and dance spectacular that invites them to think, sing and play along.

To book tickets visit nickjr.co.uk/doralive

Don’t be an ass, come and see the donkeys!

Jock, Dingo, Shaggy and Donald have arrived at Hatfield Park Farm and are settling in to their new home. They have been fostered from The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth in Devon after being rescued from Scotland. They are all

Get walking This year Walk To School Week runs from 20 - 24 May, bringing together nearly one million schoolchildren, teachers and parents and promising to be the biggest and best yet! As part of National Walking Month, the campaign aims to teach children about the benefits of walking, with each day focussing on a different aspect of walking including safety, discovery, healthy, eco-friendly and social time. Take part in Strider’s 5-Day Walking Challenge and reinforce the benefits of walking, plus download puzzles, pledges and challenges at www.livingstreets.org.uk

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cheeky characters and love lots of attention.

They have their own paddock, with Hungarian Woolly pigs as neighbours! You can “Meet the Donkeys” when they appear in the arena area where farm staff will give you an insight into the history of the donkey, the day to day care needed to look after them. Get up close and personal with your favourite donkey.

Visitors can also ride on the new miniature train that will run between 11am and 5pm on weekends, bank holidays and all school holidays.

For more details visit www.hatfield-house.co.uk

Don’t be blind to the dangers Did you know that according to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) 20 per cent of all child deaths occur in the home?

Everyday items such as kettles, baths and stairs are obvious sources of risk but there are hidden dangers too, including window blind cords and chains which can be easily overlooked. The British Blind and Shutter Association (BBSA) is therefore encouraging parents and anyone who has young children in their home to follow safety guidelines: • Examine every blind in the home. If any have a looped control chain or cord with no safety device fitted, it is easy to install one to tidy the cord or chain away and keep it out of reach.

• Ensure all operating blind cords and chains cannot be reached by children.

• Move cots, beds and any furniture away from windows and blinds – remember children love to climb.

• When buying a new blind always look for one that does not contain cords or chains or has concealed cords or has an in-built safety device.

For more information visit www.makeitsafe. org.uk and www.rospa.com

Recycle your mobile Support Friends of the Earth and recycle your old mobile ethically. Send your unwanted phone to ShP for Charity and they will not only recycle it in an environmentally friendly way but will make a donation to Friends of the Earth too. Call 020 7490 1555 or email info@ foe.co.uk with your name and address and Friends of the Earth will send you a freepost envelope for your phone.

This year Child Safety Week is 24 - 30 June 2013 go to www.childsafetyweek.org.uk to find out more.

Wing your way to Butterfly World

Butterfly World Project, Chiswell Green, St Albans has opened its wings again for the season and visitors can flutter into their beautiful grounds. Go and see hundreds of beautiful butterflies in the newly planted

butterfly house, new displays of mini-beasts, their amazing leaf cutter ants and newly themed designer gardenswhich will be in full bloom ready for Summer. Visit early to enjoy thousands of spring bulbs around the site, and round off your visit at the Nectar House Café and plant shop. They offer an excellent education programme and the school bookings for the summer term are already filling very quickly. So if you want to visit Butterfly World with your school please contact them immediately.

Butterfly World is open every day 10am to 4pm.

01727 869203 www.butterflyworldproject.com See their discount voucher on our website www.familiesherts.co.uk/vouchers

Life Is easier with Mummy’s Maid!

Whilst many mums would love to have a full time nanny, housekeeper, cleaner and personal assistant, the reality is that most people cannot afford such luxuries, but with Mummy’s Maid that much needed extra pair of hands is possible.

Kez Luckett, company founder and director, designed the company with the busy mum at heart. Learning from her own experiences following the birth of her children, she is dedicated to offering support to others hence the company motto “An Extra Pair of Hands That Understands” Mummy’s Maid provides families with short and long term household, cleaning and childcare help as and when it is needed. Each of their contracts is a minimum of two hours long so none of their clients are tied into any

lengthy contracts. All the maids go through a rigorous vetting process, with face to face interviews, reference checks and an enhanced CRB disclosure.

Mummy’s Maid has been offering their services in Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire for several years now and are very excited to be expanding into Hertfordshire.

They are also looking to recruit new members to their team in this area. You should be caring, reliable and enthusiastic and have experience of running a home to a high standard. In return you will be offered an excellent rate of pay and flexible working to fit around other commitments. For more information email: info@mummysmaid.co.uk or go to www.mummysmaid.co.uk or call 0845 463 0075

Say you saw it in

Full circle for new Stagecoach principal Stagecoach Potters Bar is welcoming its new owner and Principal, Hayley Evans, to its school; however she is not completely new!

As a child, Hayley was once a student at the Potters Bar Stagecoach itself, where her passion for performing was developed and rewarded by her being selected to perform to the Queen for her Golden Jubilee. As an adult, Hayley went on to get a university degree in drama with dance, before returning to the school as the drama teacher; where she has been teaching for the last 5 years. Whilst Hayley has a professional acting and parttime modelling career, her love for Stagecoach has always remained strong, resulting in her latest venture. Hayley has thrown herself into her new role by introducing Stagecoach Birthday Parties to her school, as well as providing summer workshops in a professional theatre for both current and non-Stagecoach students this July and August. Hayley’s own success and professional experience in acting, singing and dancing is reflected strongly in her student’s continued enjoyment and drive.

She has been welcomed with open arms and would love to thank everyone for their support.

For more details about Stagecoach Potters Bar call 01582 713771 or visit www.stagecoach. co.uk/pottersbar. Go to pages 14-16 for more information about Stagecoach Holiday Workshops.

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Party Feature

It's party

time!

By Joanna Moorhead

A birthday party is the highpoint of the year for most kids - so the pressure is on to get it right. The secret, as ever, is in the planning.

But how do you find out which party is right for your child? We guide you through some options.

The traditional party What is it? An at-home for the birthday child and friends, with traditional games like pass the parcel (always a winner), pin the tail on the donkey, and musical bumps.

Who's it suitable for? Great for nursery and reception age children, but don't neglect its values for older kids, especially girls of eight or nine who often enjoy nothing more than inviting their friends back to their house and having a girly time.

The pros: It's cheap (or at least, it can be); other parents often stay to help you out, keep you company, especially if you promise a glass of prosecco to help everyone through The cons: You may need to redecorate afterwards; you'll certainly need to do a major tidy up. It can be difficult to keep your birthday child's siblings out of the way, which could lead to conflict.

Top tips to make it work: 1. Agree ground rules with the birthday child

The cons: It can be very expensive; although some options, such as a swimming pool party or a trip to an adventure playground, can be good value

5. Musical games, dancing, discos etc are

Top tips to make it work:

What is it? A meal-based party in e.g. a pizza restaurant, where the kids are allowed to help or watch in the food preparation Who's it suitable for? Older kids of 8 to 12; children who enjoy the chance to meet and chat more than the chance to run around The pros: At its best, it's very civilised; you can even have a second table in the restaurant and invite some other parents along, so it's a meal out for you as well. Children enjoy the sense of being 'grown up' and eating out with friends The cons: It's expensive; raucous behaviour will upset other diners

1. If the activity is long and energetic it might be best to postpone a winter birthday party to the spring (the kids might get wet and cold as they'll be outside for ages).

2. Take plenty of water, squash, snacks including fruit - they'll need plenty of energy for all that running around.

3. Make absolutely sure you've checked all restrictions, e.g. height restrictions, beforehand - there's nothing worse than finding out on the day that one of your guests is too small to participate.

4. Make sure you get parental consent forms signed in advance - the venue will require you to do this before they allow you in.

5. Ensure the kids wear any safety equipment

great fun in church halls.

The restaurant party

Top tips to make it work: 1. Make sure you're booked for a time when the restaurant won't be busy.

at all times.

beforehand about which rooms are in and out of bounds.

2. A restaurant near a park, where kids can run

The church hall party

off a bit of energy afterwards, is a good idea.

2. Have a timetable for what's

What is it? An indoor party in a hired venue Who's it suitable for? Children of five plus, who are confident about being left somewhere they don't know The pros: A lot more space than they'd have if you were at home The cons: You'll have to leave the place spotless afterwards, and pay for any damage

watching for absolutely all the entertainment.

Take colouring packs and think of some easy games to play round the table in case things flag.

happening when.

3. Think about a project, e.g build-a-bear kits, jewellery-making, pirate games.

4. Give them a chance to let off steam in the garden.

5. For tea, spread a huge paper tablecloth on the floor and get them to sit around the edges of it. At the end, simply fold it up with all the rubbish inside and bin.

The action party What is it? Paintballing, go-karting, swimming, climbing etc Who's it suitable for? Children aged seven plus; kids with lots of energy who enjoy racing around.

The pros: Your house remains intact; the kids have something to focus on, and can let off steam.

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Top tips to make it work: 1. Try to find somewhere with outdoor space

3. Don't rely on the pizza-making/chef-

4. Make sure you sort out the cake arrangements beforehand; most restaurants allow you to bring your own (don't forget the candles and matches).

5. Don't limit yourself to chain restaurants - your local eaterie may be prepared to accommodate your party, and may be more flexible than bigger establishments.

as well in case it's a lovely day.

2. Ask if you can borrow/use playgroup play

And finally... whatever sort of party

equipment.

you're having don't neglect the party bags!

See our online Children’s Parties Section for more, including: eight low cost party bags ideas: www.familiesonline.co.uk/ lowcostpartybags

3. Have lots of help, and have tea reasonably early in the afternoon so you can get it tidied away before the end.

4. If you've got the budget, consider hiring an entertainer - the extra space will make it a lot more fun.

Our editorial team top tips: www.familiesonline.co.uk/ourbestpartytips

Have a Rye-Assic Adventure Party

The innovative Rye-Assic Adventure Park, located at Rye House Kart Raceway in Hoddesdon, now offers birthday parties.

These fun and active parties are suitable for 0-9 year olds and are available all week.

Choose from three party packages: Bronze costs £12.50 per child and includes park entry, party meal, birthday cake and one ride token for a coin operated ride. Or upgrade to a Silver or Gold package with exclusive events for up

to 50 children (prices available on request).

Highlights include the Rye House Raceway with "Quad-zilla" super-safe electric quad bikes on a purpose-built track under the watchful eye of a Brontosaurus (suitable from age 3). There is also boat racing, crazy golf, a “Lost in Time” maze, a bouncy castle and trampolines.

The pirate galleon themed outdoor play area gives children's imaginations a work-out as they clamber around the vessel, which has slides, mini-climbing walls, gang-planks, a basketball net, see-saws, swings and ‘springers’.

The indoor Dinodrome soft play area has three zones - the Soccer Cage, Big Red Bus and Giants’ Play Station - all close enough for parents to keep a watchful eye on their charges from the comfort of the coffee shop and viewing area. There is a designated area for the party meal and where the birthday cake is presented to the special birthday boy or girl!

“We take all the hassle and stress out of planning a birthday party, the Rye-Assic Adventure Park team will ensure it’s a birthday party to remember.” said Christine Taylor, Marketing Manager.

To find out availability or to book a party call 01992 460 895 ext 1 or go to www.ryeassicadventurepark.co.uk

LEGO Parties: Just another brick in the wall Try a LEGO party for something different.

HG Education offer unique and fun birthday parties, where they show kids how to build working robots from LEGO! HG Education, set up and run by entrepreneur Howard Grahame, run exciting LEGO robot birthday parties, which will keep kids engrossed for hours! Each child also gets a LEGO goody bag to take home at the end of the party.

For 4-6 year olds parties focus on building.

The children play games with LEGO and build their own models using standard LEGO bricks.

Choose a theme from: space / planes, cars / boats, animals / buildings or a theme of your child’s choice.

For 7-9 year olds parties focus on robots.

The kids have a party session using LEGO robotics with built-in Bluetooth controllers and compete in exciting robot races: Robot TAG and Robot Wars, Egg & spoon and Blind Man’s Bluff, Robot musical chairs For 10-16 year olds parties focus on remote control. The kids get their own LEGO robot which they customise with an array of parts and weapons. Then, it’s full-on fun with Robot Wars. Remote Control Car Racing birthday parties are also popular with this age group. A

larger space is required (e.g. village hall) as the remote control cars do slalom, obstacle and endurance racing over a laid out track.

For more information call 0800 411 8999, email info@hg-education.com or go to www.hg-education.com

Please note: LEGO® is a registered trademark of the LEGO® Group of companies which does not sponsor, authorise or endorse the above programmes or the HG Education website.

Say you saw it in

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Party Directory FARM & PARK PARTIES Paradise Wildlife Park Paradise Wildlife Park offers two party packages and both have an animal twist!

Along with their friends the birthday girl or boy can enjoy all the amazing animals and fantastic attractions at the park and they will go home with memories to treasure.

Safari Sam's Diner Package (£16.50 per child with a minimum of 10 children) includes: park entry, a ride on the Dinosaur Woodland Railway, an animal theatre show and lunch at Safari Sam's Diner. The second option is a Tumble Jungle Party (private hire). The birthday child and their friends can be little monkeys in the Tumble Jungle during the late afternoon and you can take your own food and drinks. This is a great choice for larger numbers.

01992 470490 pwpark.com.

Enter the competition on page 23 for a chance to WIN a Paradise Wildlife Park party!

Lee Valley Park Farms: visitleevalley.org.uk

Lee ValleyPark Farms Lee Valley Park Farms are a great place to hold the perfect birthday party for kids.

There’s animal fun, yummy birthday food and indoor and outdoor play areas to entertain them for hours.

Kids can meet the farm animals and make friends with cuddly sheep, giant rabbits, rare breed pigs, long-necked llamas and a loveable meerkat family.

01992 892781 visitleevalley.org.uk

Willows Farm

Paradise Wildlife Park: pwpark.com

Birthday parties at Willows Farm in St Albans are lots of fun. Let Willows organise your child's party with everything from party invites to party bags included in the price.

With your own Willows Party Host to keep the action moving parties include: entrance to Woolly Jumpers indoor play barn, Captain Chicken's Egg Dodge, a themed party room, a choice of a hot of cold menu, party bag and balloon for each child plus, the special birthday child receives a card and a £10 gift voucher! Willows members get extra benefits too. Parties must have a minimum of 10 full paying children.

0870 129 9718 www.willowsfarmvillage.co.uk

Party at Bloody Hollow and Hatfield Park Farm At Hatfield Park there’s an exciting adventure play area called Bloody Hollow (the unusual name dates from 1723) and it is the ideal setting for an outdoors d-i-y children’s party.

A model of Hatfield House is sited at the centre and play items include a rope bridge, aerial runway, tree house, swings, springies and a see-saw.

For just £1 per child (accompanying adults free) your child can play safely, enjoy a picnic style tea while mum enjoys a rest. Why not treat the children to a farm visit and tractor ride too (normal charges apply).

01707 287010 www.hatfield-house.co.uk

Bloody Hollow: www.hatfield-house.co.uk

PAMPER / BEAUTY PARTIES Little Miss Cutie The perfect party for girly girls aged from 5 to 11 years. Your daughter will have her very own make-up and hair party and become a princess for the day. With glitz and glam Little Miss Cutie will provide nail painting, lip gloss, sparkly tattoos, age appropriate makeup, and fab ‘dos’ (french plaits, cornrows, hair glitter and more). The birthday girl also gets a present and a certificate with a photograph.

07895 226287 / 07884 195696 www.littlemisscutie.co.uk/

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Say you saw it in

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Party Directory FOODIE PARTIES Cinnamon Square At its lovely Rickmansworth café Cinnamon Square offer baking parties for children aged from five years and up. Children enjoy handson baking and fun experiments like discovering why and how bread rises. They also sell KiddieKraft baking kits which are a practical alternative to party bags. The kits contain everything you need to make a range of cakes and cookies. Personalised free and delivered nationally, £4.50 per kit for orders of 15 and over.

01923 778353 www.cinnamonsquare.com

Wyllyotts Theatre Wyllyotts Theatre in Potters Bar offer Cinema and Party Games Parties throughout the year.

The Cinema Party Package (£7 per child) includes: entry to the Saturday morning cinema film, hot or cold menu, private room for your catering for up to an hour, all the clearing up and invitations. Suitable for 4-12 year olds. Minimum of 12 children, maximum of 30.

The Party Games Package (£10 per child) includes: An hour and a quarter of party games led by a dedicated party host, a choice of hot or cold menu, two hours room hire, invitations and clearing up. Suitable for 3-7year olds. Minimum of 12 children, maximum of 20 01707 660067 (Sue Jones) www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk

PARTIES ON WHEELS!

PARTY PROVIDERS & ENTERTAINERS Adam Ants Parties Adam Ants has over 20 years’ experience in the party business and a reputation for creating memorable children’s parties.

Adam Ants provide costumed entertainers for either one or two hours. Parties include music, dancing and games, magic tricks, balloon modelling and puppetry.

For older children there are disco parties with games and prizes. Plus, they offer ‘Be My Bear’ parties where the children can make their very own soft toy and sports parties complete with medals and trophies. Also available: table and chair hire, face painters, bouncy castles and more.

020 8959 1045 www.adamantsparties.co.uk

Skate Parties at Campus West www.cinnamonsquare.com

CookCamp CookCamp parties are fun and the children get to eat what they’ve made as well. Parties can be held in a hall (host to hire) or in your own home. All ingredients are supplied for whatever recipe is chosen (cupcakes, cookies, pizza, hedgehog potatoes, fruit tarts and more) as are all utensils, better still they will clear up afterwards! Party bags and gifts can be supplied (additional cost). Parties last 90 minutes and are for between 1-12 children aged 6+.

07989 743357 www.cookcamp.co.uk

How about some wheelie good fun with a roller skating party at RollerCity in Welwyn Garden City? From £169, guests can party for 120mins. They have a great variety of party packages to choose from!

01707 357117 www.rollercity.co.uk

Go Kart Krazy Great fun, action-packed parties for ages 4–10. Racing electric go-karts inside an inflatable circuit. Parties tailored to suit the age of the children. All drivers receive a quality medal and certificate. Suitable for indoors or outside, parties or school fetes.

0845 330 8896 www.gokartkrazy.co.uk

THEATRE & CINEMA PARTIES www.koolkidzgroup.co.uk/parties

Film Parties at Campus West Celebrate an occasion with unique parties whatever your age at Campus West in Welwyn Garden City. Book a fantastic Kids Klub film party for 25 children & 5 adults plus the use of a party room to decorate however you like, for £160, phone the Box Office to book.

01707 357117 www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk

UHArts UHArts now provide children's parties to accompany their family theatre and film performances. Prices range from £2.50 to £5.50 per child. Upcoming events include Robin Hood and his Very Merry Men, Tiddler and other Terrific Tales, and their monthly family film screenings Saturday Morning Pictures.

01707 281127 www.herts.ac.uk/artsandgalleries

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Kool Kidz Parties

www.gokartkrazy.co.uk

The Wheelie Good Party Company.

Something brilliant for boys and girls. Our jeep driving adventure birthday party will prove to be the best party ever. We will bring our electric jeeps and our indoor track to a venue of your choice and produce for you and your guests the most memorable party. For children aged between 4 and 8 years.

0845 045 1076 www.wheeliegoodparty.co.uk

Kool Kidz’ team of staff will make sure your child's party is the best from start to finish.

Choose from: Traditional party (3 yrs +), Sports party (relay races, football, uni-hockey, team games), Themed party (a twist on the traditional party; superheros, fairies and more), Disco party (with lights, snow machine and games, dancing competitions and prizes), Pedal Go Kart party (races, timed laps, games with a medal for the birthday child). Parties are 2 hours long with a food break after which the party games and fun continue until the end. One hour after school parties are also available.

0845 603 2858 www.koolkidzgroup.co.uk/parties

Say you saw it in

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Party Directory ACTION PARTIES Celtic Harmony Legendary Kidz Parties - Relax knowing your child's party is in good hands at Celtic Harmony Camp, the Iron Age settlement near Hertford. Celebrate with a range of themes for all ages packed with hands-on fun from Woodland Play to King Arthur and Robin Hood. Experienced party hosts will guide you on two hours of exciting activities and buffet food.

New: The Archery Party - Your child can now experience the thrill of shooting at 3D targets at The Archery Barn. Relax as experienced Archery Instructors teach your birthday child and their guests how to shoot with a bow and arrow! Your guests will shoot from the same line so everyone will have the opportunity to take part together making The Archery Barn the best archery party venue!

01438 718543 www.celticarchers.org www.celticharmony.org/parties

Hatfield Kids Funzone

Lee Valley Ice Centre

The Hatfield Kids Funzone at Birchwood Leisure Centre is a large three level in-door play area. With its special dedicated toddler area plus a host of slides, rope bridges, swings and zig zag climbs kids will be entertained for hours. There’s also a TV room and a seating area with vending machines. Self-catering parties are available Monday to Friday daytime from 10am till 2pm. A 2 hour party with your own private party room, sharing the play frame costs £7 per child. Also available for private hire. Free parking.

01707 262023 www.hatfield-herts.gov.uk/hatfield-kidsfunzone

Everyone loves a party and where better to celebrate than on the ice?

Children can enjoy an exclusive training session on their own area of the ice to learn how to skate safely and then put their new skills into practice with free entrance on to the public session.

There are always ice stewards present to ensure the safety of all the skaters and afterwards there’s a party meal to enjoy in the café.

020 8533 3154 visitleevalley.org.uk

Sportspace, Little Hay Golf Complex, XC Treat your child to a birthday party to remember!

Sportspace offers the popular pool inflatable parties, sports or activity parties such as go karts, roller skating and many more.

For the more adventurous the XC offers skate park, climbing, caving or high ropes parties.

If the birthday child has a summer birthday and the outdoors is appealing golf parties at Little Hay Golf Complex are also available and are great fun for all those budding Tigers and Rorys!

Whatever party you choose the parties are fun, active and exciting!

01442 507100 www.sportspace.co.uk www.thexc.co.uk www.sportspace.co.uk www.thexc.co.uk

RIDING/PONY PARTIES Pony Parties Be the envy of all your friends; have the perfect pony party at High Herts Equestrian Centre! With indoor and outdoor facilities you can party whatever the weather, plus they have a dedicated party room. It’ll be a great party, whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced pony clubber! Experienced, qualified staff will help you have a great time.

01923 269265 www.highherts.co.uk

The Party Room at High Herts: www.highherts.co.uk

Lee Valley Riding Centre

www.celticarchers.org www.celticharmony.org/parties

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Children from 5 to 15 years can celebrate a birthday on horseback at Lee Valley Riding Centre. The centre can accommodate four to 16 children on Saturday afternoons at 3.45pm and the café can provide birthday tea, or you can bring your own to eat in the picnic area.

These parties are highly popular, so parents are encouraged to book at least a month in advance for a brilliant birthday to remember!

020 8556 2629 visitleevalley.org.uk

MUSIC & DRAMA PARTIES Starday Parties are tailored to each age group (from 7 years). The standard package is for 12 people (including host) with a maximum of 16. The party child chooses two songs and during the two hour party there is time to practice and then record both. All the guests receive a CD of the recording and the host gets a CD and a DVD too. Invitations are provided. Bespoke packages are also offered.

07738 475246 / 01923 801635 www.starday.co.uk

Drama Llamas

Perform Parties

Drama Llamas brings a delightful engaging focus to children’s parties. We will perform a magical story to the children before leading them through a lively, fun-filled adventure using games, activities and props based around the story they’ve just heard. Drama Llamas will give your child a day to remember!

07867 793407 www.dramallamas.co.uk

Based around one of their colourful themes (Peppa Pig, Fairies and Elves, Superheros, Popstarz, Mama Mia, Musical Madness are just some of what’s available) Perform Parties are high energy, fun and infectious. Kids join in and really get involved with all the games and songs. Themes are designed to appeal to specific age groups: 1-3s, 4-8s and 8-12s. Your child’s party will be the talk of the playground.

Go online to view a typical Perform party.

0845 400 1272 www.perform.org.uk/parties

www.perform.org.uk/parties

The Sound Cube The Sound Cube offers two party options, one for between 9-16 guests, and one for up to 8 guests. During the 2 hour party the group is recorded singing their chosen track in a professional recording studio by a sound engineer. All guests will receive a CD of the party. A DVD mini-movie of the performance is also included (two for the larger groups and one for the smaller groups). Drinks and snacks are provided. Take your own birthday cake.

01923 222654 www.thesoundcube.co.uk

www.thesoundcube.co.uk

www.dramallamas.co.uk

Active creative parties Active creative organise exciting fun packed, physical parties with Dinky Dancers parties for 2-4 year olds and Boogaloo Boogie parties for 5–9 year olds.

For younger children it’s a fantastic mixture of team action activities, tv character dances and parachute games.

And for older children we also include fun and funky dance routines as well!

Our amazing, action packed parties start from £75 and each party is individually designed for every child.

01438 831281 www.active-creative.com

www.active-creative.com

Say you saw it in

Singing Starlets Children's party entertainment for babies to 5 year olds. Invite a Singing Starlets entertainer to your party venue for up to 2 hours of fun (includes a break for food). We will make it a party to remember with singing and dancing, action songs, a visit from puppet friends, playing musical instruments, popping bubbles, fun parachute games and optional party games. Book for the full 2 hours and get a free pass-the-parcel!

07803 907136 www.singingstarlets.co.uk

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Summer Camps Summer Camps Pre-View

BERKHAMSTED BASECAMP

Summer day camps provide safe and secure child care and also offer opportunities for children to learn a new skill and make new friends or to spend more time on an activity that they do regularly during term time. Some cater to a specific interest such as performing arts or sports whilst multi-activity camps provide a range of different activities. Some camps offer early-bird discounts or reductions when you enrol more than one child. Get organised now and plan for your children’s summer holiday. Here is what our advertisers are offering.

Centre 4 Excellence Centre 4 Excellence in St Albans is offering a Summer Course for children aged 5-16 years. This educational course is aimed at children with specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia and dyspraxia and it is designed to help the children improve their reading, writing and numeracy skills. Run by Florence Gardam, a Neuro-cognitive Practitioner, the Summer Course will use elements of the Brain Training / Raviv methods, these are programmes that use fun exercises and multi-sensory games to improve neural connections in order to rewire the child’s brain to help them to overcome their specific learning difficulty. All children enrolled on the Summer Course will have a FREE developmental assessment.

To find our more call Florence Gardam on 07919 067343 or email centre4excellence@btconnect.com

Best Theatre Arts Best are returning to St Albans (Sandringham School) this summer with their performing arts course. Best offer two courses: First Class Holiday for children aged 4-6 years and Best Academy for 6-16 year olds. Both run for three weeks with a new theme each week. This season’s themes for First Class are: Week 1 - The Gruffalo, Week 2 - Toy Story, Week 3 - Winnie the Pooh. For Best Academy the themes are: Week 1 - The Golden Ticket, Week 2 - Midsummer Dream, Week 3 - St. Matilda's High School. Dates: 22nd - 26th July, 29th July - 2nd August, 5th - 9th August Best Theatre Arts is Ofsted registered and will accept childcare vouchers.

For more details call 01727 759634 or go to www.besttheatrearts.com

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Andrew Flintoff with some young cricketers

BASECAMP offers an exciting and varied range of freestanding camps for children and adults at Berkhamsted School. The camps are now offered during every school holiday. Wrap-around care is available from 7.30am to 6.30pm. The camp features the Andrew Flintoff Cricket Academy, and the Gold Medal Academy, in addition to football, art, cookery, performance swimming and Muliti-Activity camps.

For adults the summer courses include art, singing, creative writing, photography and cookery, so parents and grand-parents can try something new whilst the children are on their camps.

Dates: May Half Term 28th-31st May, Summer Holiday 5th July – 29th August. Book before 31st May and get the 5% early booking discount available for selected Summer courses. For more details visit www.berkhamstedbasecamp.co.uk .

Super Camps

Kool Kidz Camps Tennis for Minis

Super Camps pride themselves on delivering exciting camps that children love and parents trust. They run day camps in locations throughout Hertfordshire. Three different types of camp are offered, so there is bound to be something that will inspire your child.

Multi Activity Camps offer a combination of sports and arts and crafts for all children 4-14 years old, with the option to book single days or full weeks.

Kool Kidz Camps are designed for children aged 4-12 years and offer quality childcare and a ‘special treat’ for children. Kool Kidz make a point of adapting what they do to the children’s needs and requirements and are constantly developing the camps to make sure that the children feel valued. For example, they have introduced a 9+ room for the older children to feel more independent in a ‘chill out’ environment. The enthusiastic, professional staff are qualified and CRB checked. They provide a safe environment for children to develop their social, emotional, physical and cognitive skills, to meet new friends and have days full of fun.

There are options for booking morning, afternoon or full day sessions as well as early drop off (from 8am) and late pick up (from 4-6pm).

Each week has a special themed day. The camps are based at St John Fisher School, St Albans.

Dates: May Half Term - 28th –31st May, Summer Holidays - 29th July-30th August For more details call 0845 603 2858 or go to www.koolkidzgroup.co.uk/camps

RAW Adventure Camps are designed for ages 7-14. These are five day courses where children will be part of a team and can get back to basics and learn to survive and thrive in the outdoors.

A Passion for…Holiday Workshops are five day workshops for children aged 6-16 years old. They are great for children with a specific interest or for those that want to try something new. These courses are designed and led by experts in their fields.

All courses and camps offer extended care from 8-9am and 5-6pm, plus the option to pay with Childcare Vouchers.

For more details call 01235 832222 or go to www.supercamps.co.uk

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Tennis for Minis www.independenttennis.com

Tennis for Minis will be holding a Summer Camp on 29th, 30th and 31st July in Meadow Park, Borehamwood. Rafa Zurita, who is running the course, believes that learning to play tennis teaches some very important life skills, such as problem solving, strategy planning, discipline and a strong work ethic plus it is a very social sport whilst also being great exercise and enormous fun. Rafa also runs a weekly Tennis Club at the same location every Saturday at 12.30pm. For more details call 07762 786820 or visit www.independenttennis.com

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Summer Camps Barracudas Barracudas are offering a fun, action packed programme during the summer holidays.

There will be a varied choice of activities including archery, motor sports, swimming, fencing, football, art, drama, dance and circus skills. They also provide a climbing wall, dance mats and inflatables, these are ‘roaming’ activities which move from camp to camp.

You can book whole weeks or individual days.

Barracudas are based at these Hertfordshire venues on the dates shown: Abbots Hill School (Hemel Hempstead) 29th July – 23rd August Bishops Stortford College (Bishops Stortford) - 22nd July – 23rd August Haileybury (Hertford) - 22nd July – 16th August Queen Elizabeth School (Barnet) - 29th July – 23rd August Sherrardswood School (Welwyn) - 29th July – 23rd August Watford Grammar School for boys ( Watford) - 29th July – 23rd August For more details call 0845 123 5299 or go to www.barracudas.co.uk

Perform Summer Experience This summer let your 4-8 year old join Aladdin, Jasmine and The Genie on a thrilling five day adventure based on the story of Aladdin.

Together with a team of experienced theatre professionals, the children will combine live original music, inspirational dance and quick witted improvisation and colourful costumes into a mini performance on the final day.

This course will encourage creativity, confidence and communication skills as well as being a kaleidoscope of fun!

Dates: Fleetville Junior School (St Albans) 29th July – 2nd August, 19th -23rd August (10am – 12pm) and Christ Church Vision Hall (Radlett) 19th –23rd August (2.30pm – 4.30pm) Fees: £145. Book before end of May and get

Base Camps At £20 per day (9.30am – 4.30pm), Base Camps offers peace of mind for parents, with their Ofsted registration and rigorous staffing procedure, and a packed day for children aged 6–14 years. With the option to extend from 8am–6pm for an additional £5, it’s convenient and value-for-money. Book online by 3rd May for a 10% discount.

Base Camps, aim to provide safe, stimulating holiday childcare based on team work and fun.

10% discount. Perform offer a 25% discount for siblings attending the same Experience at the same venue.

For more details call 0845 400 1272 or go to www.perform.org.uk

All staff are aged over 18 and are CRB checked and qualified (or training to be qualified) in a relative field of teaching and coaching.

Government guidelines recommend 60 minutes of strenuous activity a day and Base Camps guarantee it with the Active Hour plus team building challenges and lots of arts and crafts activities.

Hertfordshire’s Base Camps venue is in Watford. Dates: 29th July - 30th August. Call 01235 833030 or visit www.basecamps.org.uk

Stagecoach Holiday Workshops Stagecoach Potters Bar are holding two Holiday Workshops both for ages 8-18 years. Participants will spend five days singing, acting and dancing as kids put together a performance for family and friends to watch on the final day of the workshop.

The first week's theme is ‘Musicals Mega Mix’ : a mixture of songs, dances and scripts from hit shows. Date: 29th July – 2nd August. The second week's theme is ‘Through the Decades’ and participants will experience the music, song and dance of the 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60's, 70's and 80's right up to today’s sounds. Date: 19th – 23rd August. For more details call 01582 713771 or go to www.stagecoach.co.uk/pottersbar Other Stagecoach Holiday Workshops are: Welwyn-Hatfield: 5th–9th August - 020 8441 5922 / www.stagecoach. co.uk/welwynhatfield Chorleywood: 5th–9th August - 020 7431 6005 / www.stagecoach. co.uk/chorleywood Hemel Hempstead: 5th -9th August (Ages: 4-18) - 01442 875977 / www.stagecoach.co.uk/hemelhempstead

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Education UCAS Progress A new UCAS website helping Hertfordshire teenagers make the right choices after GCSEs, as continued learning becomes law From this summer, a change in the law means teenagers must stay in some form of education or training until the end of the academic year in which they turn 17. And from 2015 the Raising the Participation Age legislation extends this requirement until they turn 18.

The UCAS Progress website is helping councils, schools, colleges and parents meet this challenge, by letting young people search for post-16 courses from one place.

Since October last year, younger students in Hertfordshire have been using UCAS Progress (ucasprogress.com) to find courses ranging from apprenticeships in engineering to A level maths.

While UCAS is best known for managing university applications, UCAS Progress is for younger students searching for courses like BTECs, Diplomas, A levels and apprenticeships.

It’s free to use and can also be accessed on mobile devices. Teenagers can search for courses by region, type of course, or a keyword, then save and share them with friends, family and advisers.

There are 140 education providers in Hertfordshire, offering some 3,000 courses or learning opportunities, and annually there are

just over 11,000 young people in the county making post-16 education choices.

Justin Donovan, Director of Education and Early Intervention at Hertfordshire County Council, said: “We’re very positive about supporting UCAS Progress within the Hertfordshire area because of the support it offers to young people making career choices.

“Using UCAS Progress, students can find out information about schools, academies, colleges and training providers, and view information by course, provider or on a map.

“By typing in their postcode or the location of where they want to study, they can find learning opportunities within a chosen distance. UCAS Progress is a great way for them to explore the options open to them.”

Gina Bradbury, Head of UCAS Progress said: ... we’re very excited to be working with Hertfordshire and local education providers, to help young people make informed choices about their future learning or training".

To find out more call 0871 468 2568 or email ucasprogress@ucas.ac.uk.

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UCAS Progress is a unit within UCAS. UCAS Progress Search and Apply (www.ucasprogress. com) is the largest single online prospectus service focused on 14-19 provision in the UK. Over a third of English local authorities and major learning providers, as well as Swansea, use the service to display their provision to a huge market of learners who use UCAS Progress to research learning opportunities and make applications to their desired post-16 learning providers.

To find out more about Raising the Participation Age visit: www.education.gov.uk/ childrenandyoungpeople

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Education

Helping your child cope with exam stress

By Dr Lucy Russell

Dear parents of year 6 children, This article has been written for you to share with your child as they approach their SATs exams. There’s always a considerable amount of playground ‘chat’ about these exams and this may cause anxiety. This article explains that ‘stress’ is normal and provides some ideas to help.

So, I guess by now you have heard lots about SATs and maybe you have discussed with your parents. You might have heard people saying it’s important to do well so you are in the right streams at secondary school.

Some children can be worried about these exams. Maybe you’re worried about messing it up, or that you won’t understand the questions. This is quite natural, in fact; getting ‘stressed’ or anxious when you’re faced with exams, is very common. Leading up to an exam, your body gets pumped with two substances called adrenalin and cortisol, which can actually help you focus.

This ‘stress response’ was helpful when we were cavemen and needed to run away from wild animals…

But too much stress is not healthy and has a negative impact on your body and mind.

See how you react when stressed by completing this checklist:

How do I feel when I am stressed? q Jumpy

q Worried or afraid

q Can’t sit still

q Fast breathing

q Feeling like crying

q Sticky hands

q Dry mouth

q Cold hands

q Tense muscles

q Pounding heart

q Upset stomach

q Tight feelings in chest

q Sweating

q Getting angry easily

q Hard time falling asleep

over little things

q Other Now that you understand stress and the impact it has on you, we can look at what you can do to help yourself cope with it.

1. Look after yourself • Make sure you get lots of sleep. Stop homework or playing on computer games at least one hour before going to bed.

• Exercise helps release tension in your body and boosts your mood. Build it into your timetable each day – perhaps walking around the block, or bouncing on a trampoline.

• Your brain needs a steady stream of energy, and the right vitamins and minerals to work properly. Try and eat lots of healthy food. A good breakfast on the day of any exams is important too.

2. Use coping techniques • Talk to your parents or someone else you know well. It’s really important that you don’t suffer alone. Sharing a problem can sometimes make you feel that a burden has been lifted. Others may have experienced the same sorts of feelings.

• When you’re stressed, do some relaxing and enjoyable things.

This calms your nervous system, stops the release of adrenalin and gives your body a rest. It creates ‘feel good’ chemicals in your body which help you relax. It’s especially important to do this in the evenings as this will help you sleep well.

3. Keep things in perspective • Try to challenge any panicky thoughts like ‘If I don’t pass, my world is over.’ Of course it means a lot to you and your family to do well, however, many people don’t pass exams and life will go on.

• Challenge any ‘negative’ thoughts you’re having which seem to make you stressed. Thoughts are not always true. Work out what your worrying thoughts are and then check out whether they are true or not by chatting to your parents or a friend.

Thanks for reading this article; we hope you found it useful.

Everlief Child Psychology (01494 521332, www.everlief.co.uk) will be running 1.5 hour workshops over the summer months for groups of up to six children. The workshops will be led by a clinical psychologist and will focus on the topics in this article.

The cost for these workshops is £25.

Dr Lucy Russell is the lead child psychologist at Everlief Child Psychology. For lots of other useful information go to www.everlief.co.uk.

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Abacus x Maths Learning – In the Way of the Japanese Cherry Blossoms Abacus x Maths Learning is a unique maths enrichment course, mainly aimed at primary school-aged children. Through the use of the Japanese Abacus and other materials, the course is designed to help children excel with their mental arithmetic, school maths, and even other subjects, by developing their concentration, reasoning, visualisation, and tenacity.

Like the Japanese cherry blossom whose leaves are multiple, complex and connected by their beautiful patterns, Abacus x Maths Learning is based on the belief that our understanding of the world is interactive, relative, and multi-fold. Helping children understand this will give them a solid foundation in their learning of maths and other subjects, and boost their general intelligence.

Those who just rely on their rote memory for answers without really thinking about the nature of a problem may not be able to solve the same question when expressed in different ways. Maths isn’t only about how we calculate sums though; it’s also about understanding, finding and expressing the patterns between numbers, objects, languages, and time and Abacus x Maths Learning helps children experience and explore these relationships.

The following Yae (Eight Petals) are the foundation of Abacus x Maths Learning: 1. Exposure (to different expressions of problems) – people learn from their experience. The more experience students have of working out different problems, the more deeply they understand the nature of them.

2. Internalisation Exercises (by connection and repetition) – by storing mathematical facts, like times tables, as visual memories accessed by key words. Repetition strengthens and fixes these memories.

3. Cognitive training (using senses of sight, hearing and touch through the Japanese Abacus) – sharpening the processing of information and outputs through the senses.

4. Individual Learning - individual students need to work at their own best learning speed.

5. Structured Learning - step by step, clear learning objectives and levels.

6. Tenacity - Recognition by teacher, parents and children that learning the Abacus Maths needs consistency and perseverance; like running a marathon or learning the piano.

7. Elements of fun, creativity, and motivation 8. Research into all areas and aspects of learning (to improve the efficiency and richness of learning) - We should all continually acquire more efficient and enriching ways of learning.

Maths isn’t only about how we calculate sums

To find out more about the Abacus x Maths Learning methods and to find a class and book a free trial visit www.abacusmaths.info where you can also view videos and read testimonials.

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19

Star Child

Your Child in the Stars

By Sue Fletcher

Having your child’s astrology birth chart explained is a wonderful opportunity to explore your child’s future potential. Will they be gifted at singing the arts or sport or will they be serious or dramatic? Will they travel the world or will they want to stay at home? This information can be vital to how you support your child as they grow up. There is a lot of information in a birth chart as there are ten planets and their positions to consider including the Moon sign. Here we look at the Sun signs.

Aries

(March 21st-April 20th) is the first of the fire signs.

It is the sign of the Ram and they like to be leaders in everything they do. Always up for the challenge and they aim to win: are energetic and are here to express their go getting nature. They will be excellent at physical activities and sports. As they are always on the go it is important for them to get enough rest.

Gemini

(May 21st to June 20th) is the Twins. Gemini is an air sign and your Gemini child will be interested in everything and everybody. They may find it difficult to stick to just one thing and need to be encouraged to finish one thing before they start the next. They will love to tell or write little stories and take delight in presenting you with a well written letter, story or account of their day.

Taurus

(April 20th-May 21st ) is the Bull. As an earth sign they like to have their feet on the ground and routine is important. They like pretty materials and colours and like to be comfortable. Taureans love music and usually enjoy singing. They can be possessive and one of the first words they utter is “mine”. Try to encourage them to share their toys.

Cancer

(21st June-20th July) is the Crab. This is a water sign, so emotional wellbeing and safety are important and so your little Crab will want to be by your side. They are creative and may be moody sometimes. They will like their own special hideaway where they can play with that special toy which they love so much. They will naturally want to nurture and protect things. It may be a younger brother, sister an animal or a toy.

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Leo

(21st July to 23rd August), the Lion, is the second of the fire signs and as with all fire signs you cannot fail to notice them. Leo does have a temper; may be stubborn but will calm down eventually. Your Leo child will want to be the centre of attention, maybe clingy, will be very dramatic and have a flair for creative pastimes. A local theatre group would be a perfect after school activity as your little Leo will often crave an audience and loves to be praised when they do something well.

Virgo (23rd August to 23rd September) is the second of the earth signs. Your Virgo child will be a perfectionist and will want things just so.

Daily routine will alleviate their sensitive system. They may be a fussy eater so as a parent make sure they have good food, plenty of rest, fresh air and regular exercise. They will want to help around the house and will have a desire to be helpful. They will love reading and bedtime stories. Having their own bookshelf will give them great pleasure.

Libra

(23rd September to 22ndOctober) the second of the air signs represented by the scales; has to have harmony and balance around them and hates arguments.

Your Libra child will be charming and usually very good looking. They love beautiful objects around them and are attracted to the fields of art and music. They will love a mirror in their bedroom and will be very interested in the clothes they wear. This is an air sign and they can float away into a world of their own.

Justice is important and being fair. They may have trouble making up their mind.

Scorpio

Sue Fletcher prepares birth charts for adults and children.

A birth chart would make a lovely gift for new parents or grand-parents.

(22nd October to 21st November) is the second of the water signs Scorpio can be intense and powerful like the Scorpion. They never miss anything having x-ray vision. If you make a promise to them you had better keep it as they will not forget. Scorpio is not going to give in and will fight for what they believe in. This child loves a challenge and they are likely to choose hobbies that they become passionate about. They will need a firm hand and discipline from an early age as they may try and manipulate you.

They may ask embarrassing questions and can be quite serious at times. They are very loyal but expect the same from others.

To find out more go to www.astrologysue.com

Sagittarius (November 22nd to 21st December), the archer, is the final fire sign. Life is for living and your Sagittarius child will have a good sense of humour and they will love adventure.

They will love stories about faraway places and eventually will have a great interest in the rest of the world. Try to buy them books and videos that appeal to their sense of adventure and travel. Encourage them to have a goal and something to look forward to. Make sure they finish what they start as they have an interest in so many things.

Capricorn (21st December to 21st January), the goat, is the third and last earth sign. Your Capricorn child will be very independent and will want to do the right thing and work hard. You may find it difficult to get them to show their emotions. They do have a fear of failure so it is best to praise them whenever you can. They may want to stay in their room alone which is fine to a point but do encourage them to have friends around them. Your little Capricorn child will always be caring and loyal.

Aquarius (January 21st to February 21st), the water bearer, is the last of the air signs. Your Aquarius child can be stubborn and will want to do things their way. They will want a certain amount of freedom and rules and regulations and everyday routines will annoy them. They can be quite eccentric and seem detached and in another world. Try to keep them grounded by doing earthy things like taking a walk or having a bath or playing games. They are very social and usually have lots of friends but may still want their freedom.

Pisces (22nd February to March 20th), the fish, is the final sign in the Zodiac and is the last of the water signs. Your Pisces child will be very sensitive to atmospheres and will have a compassionate nature. They will love fairy stories, fantasy and daydreaming and will develop a love of poetry, music and art. Being quite sensitive your Pisces child will need to recharge their batteries and enjoy time on their own. It is important to keep this child grounded too. Plenty of rest and bedtime baths, walks and playing with animals may help.

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21

Women’s Health How To Stop Wetting Your Knickers and Start Enjoying Life Again One in 4 women* wet their knickers every time they sneeze, cough, exercise, laugh or dance but hardly anyone talks about it. In her new book, "Pelvic Floor Secrets - a six week programme to confidence, continence and sexual satisfaction", Jenni Russell offers a practical solution to one of the most common but least talked about problems in women’s health.

"Stress incontinence is not normal; women should not have to grin and bear it, accept it as an unpleasant consequence of ageing or a traumatic labour experience. Following the six week programme in ‘Pelvic Floor Secrets’ can be life changing", says Jenni.

Having a strong pelvic floor can make a huge difference to one's quality of life, no more worrying about leaking, no need for incontinence pads and no potentially serious medical conditions such as a prolapsed bladder, bowel or womb and to top it all a vastly improved sex life.

Pelvic Floor weakness affects all ages and can be embarrassing and emotionally distressing. It damages your self-esteem and affects all areas of daily life, no more so than in your most intimate relationship. Lack of strength in your pelvic floor and vaginal laxity can ruin your sex life, with lack of sensitivity making it unsatisfying for both partners.

Jenni, who has specialised in pelvic floor health since 1996, works with clients at her clinic in Harley Street in a compassionate, non-judgemental way to produce long lasting results. In the book she shares her knowledge and expertise in an easy to follow, step by step programme that provides a solution to one of the last taboos of women's health, making prolapsed pelvic organs, lack of vaginal strength and embarrassing incontinence moments a thing of the past.

The book holds no punches and takes a frank and friendly approach to the problem.

It is beautifully illustrated with anatomically correct drawings and packed with scientific information and practical guidance on how to strengthen your pelvic floor.

Following the programme and maintaining pelvic floor strength will: • reverse/minimise** stress incontinence • reverse vaginal laxity • increase confidence • avoid pelvic organ prolapse • avoid surgery and medication • improve sexual satisfaction

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Try this basic breathing exercise: Everything starts with the way we breathe.

Effective Diaphragmatic Breathing ensures that oxygen flows freely through the pelvic area, increasing the blood flow necessary for heightened arousal which in turn helps “plump” up the muscles within the vaginal canal and improves responsiveness. It also keeps the pelvic floor healthy and functional.

Stand in front of a mirror and inhale, making sure your shoulders and chest remain still.

Only your tummy should be expanding. Exhale through pursed lips as if blowing a trumpet and letting the tummy relax. Practice this as many times as possible. This exercise sends oxygen to the pelvic floor and helps switch on the sensory pathways.

Actress Jenny Seagrove says in her foreword to the book "read the book for health and strength, with everything else being a bonus (and what a bonus…) and take it to heart and do what she says".

Jenni says: "So many women suffer from pelvic floor weakness yet few are prepared to talk about it openly or even know that there is something they can do about it. It's such a growing problem, even for women in their 20s that sales of feminine hygiene products aimed at women who "leak" urine is big business it's not just new mums and post-menopausal women who are somehow finding it socially acceptable to wear what are essentially adult nappies when it doesn't have to be this way". * NHS Choices ** Dependent on severity of problem

Pelvic Floor Secrets by Jenni Russell is published by Filament Publishing £15.99 and is available from good bookshops and to buy and download from Amazon.

ISBN 978-1-908691-39-2

A recent survey by Dr Hilary Jones on ITV's Lorraine (October 2012) found that 84% of women questioned had some form of incontinence with fewer than 40% seeking help from their GP because of the embarrassment and stigma attached to the subject.

For more information: www.jennirussell.com www.nhs.uk, www.continence-foundation. org.u/ www.patient.co.uk

Enter these competitions at www.familieshers.co.uk/comps

Competitions

WIN A Family Pass to Butterfly World Project Butterfly World, near St Albans is once again open for visitors for the season!

See over 500 beautiful tropical butterflies in the Butterfly House including the stunning Blue Morpho, the enormous Atlas Moth, and master of disguise, the Indian Leaf butterfly.

Wonder at the fascinating colonies of Leaf Cutter Ants in Ant World and learn about a whole variety of ‘creepy crawlies’ in the Study Centre. Children can run wild in the Natural Play Area, handle a variety of ‘mini beasts’ in the Insect Study Centre, while adults can

enjoy 18 extraordinary designer gardens, and relax in the Nectar House Cafe and Plant Shop.

Terms & Conditions: Family ticket valid for two adults and two children, must be redeemed by 31st July Butterfly World is open 10am-5pm every day.

For more details go to www.butterflyworldproject.com or call 01727 869203 Enter to win 1 of 2 Family passes.

Closing date: 28th May

WIN Robosapien on DVD Robosapien is out on DVD from 28th May. This action packed family adventure from the producer of X-Men, Spiderman and Iron Man will capture your heart.

Henry may not be the most popular kid in school, but he is certainly the smartest and that has its advantages when he comes across a broken robot which he names Cody. After fixing the robot, Henry discovers that Cody isn’t your average automaton – he’s a highly intelligent search and rescue robot who has been set free by his inventor from the clutches of the evil Kinetech Labs who plan to use him for military purposes.

Cody and Henry’s friendship looks as though it may be brought to an abrupt end when Kinetech track down Cody and take him back

WIN a Paradise Wildlife Park has two fantastic fun-filled packages for kids' birthday parties with an animal twist! The birthday girl or boy can bring their friends and enjoy the amazing animals and other attractions at the park.

Your child will be the main attraction and their day will be tailored to provide them with wonderful memories whether they choose to bounce around the indoor play area, take a tour of the animal park or enjoy one of our shows.

This fabulous competition from Paradise Wildlife Park will give one of our lucky readers

to the lab, however Cody’s inventor feels guilty and reunites the two friends. When Kinetech kidnap Henry’s mother and the inventor in retaliation, it’s up to one boy and his robot to outwit their captors and save the day.

Robosapien is based on the hugely popular toys of the same name. The film blends fast-paced action, mischievous humour and incredible CGI to create a rollercoaster ride of an adventure that the whole family will love.

Follow Robosapien at www.facebook.com/ robosapienmovie and www.twitter.com/ robosapienmovie Duration: 85 minutes. RRP: £15.99 Enter for a chance to win 1 of 8 DVDs! Closing date: 28th May

Party! the opportunity to win a fun filled party for up to 10 children and 4 accompanying adults. The prize package includes admission to Paradise, party food and at a party table in Safari Sam’s Diner. Kids can choose from chicken dippers, beef burger, veggie nuggets and chips with a juice drink and ice cream.

Your group will have the whole day to enjoy the animals, rides, attractions and shows at Hertfordshire’s number one zoo.

To find our more about Paradise Wildlife Park parties or to book your party call 01992 470490 ext. 221 or email angela@pwpark.com or go to pwpark.com

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23

What's On THEATRE ALBAN ARENA Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk CINEMA: Wreck It Ralph 8 June – 11am THEATRE: Nickelodeon’s Dora The Explorer Live!

10 May – 4.30pm 11 May – 10.30am, 1.30pm & 4.30pm 12 May – 10.30am & 1.30pm Help Dora find her lost teddy bear.

BROXBOURNE CIVIC HALL High Street, Hoddesdon, EN11 8BE 01992 441946 www.broxbourne.gov.uk/ whatson CINEMA: Wreck It Ralph (PG) 28 May – 10.30am & 2pm THEATRE: Tiddler and other Terrific Tales 1 May – 4.30pm 2 May – 10.30am & 2pm All seats £10, Family of 4 £34 Queen of the Dance 15 May – 7.30pm Ensemble of international Irish Step Dancing Tickets: £23, £21, under 16s & Friends of Broxbourne 10% off GORDON CRAIG THEATRE Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, Herts SG1 1LZ 08700 131030 www.gordon-craig.co.uk

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Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 8 May – 1pm & 4pm 9 May – 1pm & 4.30pm A magical visit to the Little Kingdom.

Tickets: £14.50 & £12.50, concs £2 off HAWTHORNE THEATRE Campus West, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6BX 01707 357117 www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk CINEMA: Hotel Transylvania (U) 11 May – 10am Frankenweenie (PG) 5 May – 10am THEATRE: Shhh!

2-4 May – 8pm A story of love, flying books and a dancing librarian!

Tickets: £13 (in advance), £15 (on the night) Welwyn Drama Festival 3-8 June – 7.30pm Every evening two or more plays to thrill, excite and move the audience to tears!

Tickets: £10, Season Ticket £38 (all 6 nights) HERTFORD THEATRE The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com My Brother the Robot 4 May – 3pm £11, £9 concs, £38 family Rumpelstiltskin and the Wheel of Fortune 1 & 2 June – 11am & 2pm The Miller’s daughter, is in a bit of a pickle! If she doesn’t turn a roomful of straw into gold by morning, the greedy King will turn nasty.

Tickets: £8

Robin Hood and His Very Merry Men 15 June – 11am & 2pm Robin Hood and his very merry men rob from the rich to save the poor.

Tickets: £12, £10 concs, £40 family

Blown Away 7 Apr – 11.30am & 2.30pm What if, one windy night a little girl arrives in your bedroom and tells you she’s the wind?

Ages 3-6.

Tickets: £11, £9 Concs, £36 Family

THE MARKET THEATRE Sun Street, Hitchin, SG5 1AE 01462 433553 www.markettheatre.co.uk Royal Storyteller 27 Apr – 2pm Her Majesty Queen of Everywhere invites you into her home and reads a wonderful story from the Magical Book of Ancient Tales. £5

WYLLYOTTS THEATRE Wyllyotts Place, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar, EN6 2HN 01707 645005 www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk Saturday Kids Cinema The Croods (U) Finding Nemo (U) Sat 18th May 10.30am Tickets £2 Milkshake! Live Tour Sat 8th June 1pm & 3.30pm Tickets: £12, £10 child, family of 4 £40

THE OLD TOWN HALL THEATRE High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE 01442 228091 www.oldtownhall.co.uk Wind in the Willows 11 May – 2.30pm Musical production of Tales of the River Bank, The Open Road, and The Wild Wood. £5.50, £4 concs THE RADLETT CENTRE 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 8HL 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk We’re Going on a Bear Hunt 28 May – 1.30pm 29-31 May – 11am & 1.30pm Catchy songs, interactive scenes and hands-on adventure. with a few special surprises!

Tickets: £11 TRESTLE ARTS BASE Russet Drive, St Albans, AL4 0JQ 01727 850950 www.trestle.org.uk

WATERSMEET THEATRE High Street, Rickmansworth, WD3 1EH 01923 711063 www.watersmeet.co.uk Captain Calamity’s Adventures in Story Land 28 May – 2pm Follow his adventures through Story Land spreading cheer, solving problems and using special powers of magic, song, dance, balloons and bubbles.

Tickets: £11, £9 concs, £38 family UHARTS - THE WESTON AUDITORIUM University of Hertfordshire De Havilland Campus, Hatfield AL10 9EU 01707 281127 www.herts.ac.uk/ artsandgalleries

Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales 19 May 2013 - 1:30pm Meet Tiddler, the smartest giant in town. Under sea, over land, on the farm and in the jungle, these tales are woven together with live music, songs, puppets and a host of colourful characters.

Age: 3+ Tickets: £10 Adult, £8 Child Saturday Morning Pictures with Arts and Crafts Workshops 25 May - Indian in the Cupboard (PG) (Age: 7+) 22 June - James and the Giant Peach (PG) 13 July - Arrietty (U) This season’s theme is films about little people in a big world. Age: 5+ Film: £2.50 child (up to two adults free) Workshop: £3.50 child

HALF TERM FUN & WORKSHOPS BARRACUDAS ACTIVITY DAY CAMPS 0845 123 5299, www.barracudas.co.uk Various locations around Hertfordshire 28-31 May – 8.30-5.30pm Multi-activity day camp for children aged 4½ -16. Swimming, motor sports, archery, fencing, mad science, arts and crafts and lots more. Extended hours available.

BIRCHWOOD LEISURE CENTRE PLAYSCHEME Longmead, Hatfield, AL10 0AN 01707 262023 www.hatfieldherts.gov.uk School Holidays– 8.30am-6pm Bouncy Castle, Badminton, Karaoke, Face Painting, Netball, Arts & Crafts, Cooking, Football, Hatfield Kids Funzone.

Ages 5 to Year 7.

Cost: Hatfield Resident £14/day, Non-Resident £20.50/day

COURTYARD ARTS CENTRE Port Vale, Hertford SG14 3AA. 01992 509596 www.courtyardarts.org.uk Holiday Workshops 28 - 31 May 5 yrs+ EVERYONE ACTIVE HARTHAM LEISURE CENTRE 2 Hartham Common, Hartham Lane, Hertford, SG14 1QR 01992 584000 harthaminfo@everyoneactive. com, www.everyoneactive.com Swim in the main or learner pool; fun swims everyday. Check online for the timetable.

Cost: £3.90 - Adult, £1.90 – Child, under 3s free GO KIDS Gosling Sports Park, Stanborough Road, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 384303 www.goslingsports.co.uk School holidays – 9am-3.30pm Take the stress out of school holidays in a fun and safe environment. Ages 3-14 years.

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HATFIELD SWIM CENTRE Lemsford Road, Hatfield, Herts, AL10 0EB Tel: 01707 276276 Fun Sessions Sat & Sun – 1-2.30pm Energetic, fun sessions with inflatables and floats. Age: 8-15 Cost: £3.20.

HERTS YOUNG MARINERS BASE Windmill Lane, Cheshunt EN8 9AJ 01992 628403 www.hymb.com Half Term Activity Sessions 28-31 May – 9.30am-12pm, 1-3.30pm Caving, climbing, kayaking, bell boating, canoeing, bushcraft, adventure games, sailing Cost: Half Day £20, Full Day £40 PLAY IN THE PARKS ROADSHOW Call the Sports Development Team on 01727 827 667 ext 228 or email beth.tyler@ leisureconnection.co.uk www.stalbans.gov.uk

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What's On During School Holidays Play activities in 13 parks and open spaces in Hertfordshire.

Session details online. Age: 5-12. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

Free

PLACES TO GO ADEYFIELD ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND Turner Hill, Adeyfield, Hemel Hempstead, AP2 4LD 01442 242852 paul.banks@dacorum.gov.uk Term time: Mon-Fri 3.30-6.30pm, Sat-Sun 1-5pm School Holidays: Mon-Fri 9.30am-5.30pm, closed weekends and bank holidays Inside: Arts & crafts, cooking, sports, pool table, table tennis and computer games. Outside: enclosed area with wooden play structures; football pitch; zip wire and nest swing. Age: 6-12 years; under 6s must be accompanied by an adult.

Free ALDENHAM COUNTRY PARK Aldenham Road, Elstree, WD6 3BA 0208 953 9602 www.aldenhamcountrypark.co.uk Big Family Picnic Day! 27 May Take a picnic and enjoy family fun and games in 100 Aker Wood all day. Plus, enjoy the lake and the play area and the homes of Pooh Bear, Christopher Robin, Piglet, Eeyore and Owl in the 100 Aker Wood.

BEKONSCOT MODEL VILLAGE Warwick Road, Beaconsfield, Bucks HP9 2PL 01494 672919 www.bekonscot.co.uk Open mid-Feb to early-Nov from 10am to 5pm daily.

BUTTERFLY WORLD Miriam Lane, Off Noke Lane, Chiswell Green AL2 3NY 01727 869 203 www.butterflyworldproject.com Open Daily 10am-5pm Last entry an hour before closing.

Adults: £7.50, £6.50 concs, £3.30 children(3-16) FREE for under 2s.

CELTIC HARMONY CAMP The Iron Age Settlement, Brickendon Lane, Brickendon.

Hertfordshire SG13 8NY celticharmony.org 01438 718543

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Beltane Summer Festival 6 May – 10am-5pm Join the festivities for the start of summer with Celtic games, live music, drumming workshops, fire procession, fire breathing, bonfire, longbow archery, craft demonstrations and plenty of activities from May crowns to treasure hunts.

Hot refreshments from the Iron Age Kitchen including Hog Roast!

Admission: £8 (Advance booking online is essential for this event), under 2s free.

Kids Archery at The Archery Barn opposite Celtic Harmony Camp 28-31 May - 10am-12noon, 2-4pm Two hour archery experience Shoot 3D targets indoors.

CHURCH FARM Ardeley , Nr Stevenage SG2 7AH, 01438 861447 www.churchfarmardeley.com Buy some feed and feed the animals yourself, woodland play area, cafe.

Free entry and parking FARMYARD FUNWORLD Bushey Hall Drive, Bushey, WD23 2ES, 01923 219 902 www.farmyardfunworld.co.uk Farmyard – 10am to 5.15pm (or dusk) Funworld – 9.15am-5pm Children’s farm and indoor soft play area.

Prices vary, whether for entry to farmyard, funworld or both.

FROGMORE PAPER MILL The Paper Trail Frogmore Paper Mill & Visitor Centre, Fourdrinier Way, Apsley, Hemel Hempstead HP3 9RY 01442 234600 www.thepapertrail.org.uk Summer Fayre 30 June - 11am - 4pm Collectables, craft stalls and demonstrations. Optional Mill Tours. BBQ, Paper Shop and Cafe.

Cost: Adults £1, children 50p HATFIELD HOUSE Hatfield, Herts AL9 5NQ 01707 287010 www.hatfield-house.co.uk Festival of Living Crafts 9-12 May 10am - 5pm See hundreds of the finest designer-makers. www.livingcrafts.co.uk Vintage, Antiques & Collectors’ Markets 18 May, 15 June - 10am - 5pm At these regular Stable Yard market weekends you will find

stalls selling furniture, silverware, china, glass, books, prints and postcards.

Farmers’ Market 19 May, 16 June - 10am - 2pm Art in Clay 07751 296625 www.artinclay.co.uk 5-7 July - 10am - 5.30pm (5pm Sunday) See and buy beautiful ceramic items for indoor and outdoor use.

Tickets: Adult £9 (£8 in advance), Conc £8.50 (£7.50 in advance), Under 15s Free.

Cliff Richard: Still Reelin’ and A-Rockin’ 9 June Cliff returns to the UK with Midsummer Nights at Hatfield House with The Military Wives Choirs.

HATFIELD PARK FARM Hatfield House and Park Hatfield AL9 5NQ 01707 287010 www.hatfield-house.co.uk Open Tues-Sun – 10am-5.30pm (and Bank Holidays) Traditional breeds of sheep, pigs, goats, cattle, ducks, geese and turkeys. Free tractor rides.

Don’t miss the new miniature train running 11am- 5pm on weekends, bank holidays and all school holidays. Train rides are part of the Hatfield Park Farm experience only and visitors can enjoy their ‘free ride’ with a valid Hatfield Park Farm ticket. Bloody Hollow play area with a model of Hatfield House. All ages Entry: £4.50 adult, £2 child LEE VALLEY visitleevalley.org.uk 08456 770 600 The Lee Valley is a unique area that extends from London through Essex and Hertfordshire.

With a huge variety of different things to do it’s a great place for a family day out. From London 2012 venues to heritage sites, cycling, walking, white water rafting, horse riding, nature reserves and open spaces – go and explore the Lee Valley.

A Walk in the Park 5 May 10.30am-12.30pm Starts from Fishers Green car park, Rail: Cheshunt Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey, EN9 2EF. Dawn chorus day: a leisurely 2 mile walk learning about early bird song. Suitable for all. FREE. IJS Free Skating /Pairs Open Competition 5-6 May - 8am-7pm

Lee Valley Ice Centre, Lea Bridge Road, Leyton, E10 7QL. visitleevalley.org.uk.

020 8533 3154 Competitors from across the country take part in this freestyle competition.

Suitable for all.

FREE for spectators Fun on the Green Three Mills Green, Three Mills Lane, Bromley by Bow, London E3 3DU. visitleevalley.org.uk.

08456 770 600 11 May 12-4pm Entertainment, arts, historical guided walks, performances, sports and lots of play! Suitable for all.

FREE National Mills Weekend Three Mills House Mill, Three Mills Lane, Bromley by Bow, London E3 3DU. housemill.org.uk.

020 8980 4626 11-12 May - 11am-4pm Grade I listed House Mill.

Suitable for all.

FREE. Riding Centre Show Lee Valley Riding Centre, Lea Bridge Road, Leyton, London E10 7QL. visitleevalley.org.uk.

080 8566 2629 27 May – 10am-5pm Spectators welcome to watch Riding Centre customers compete in jumping and showing classes. Suitable for all.

FREE for spectators.

Star Track Lee Valley Athletics Centre, Meridian Way, Edmonton, London N9 0AR. visitleevalley.org.uk/athletics.

020 8344 7230 28-31 May -10am-2pm Expert tuition from javelin to long jump. Age: 8 -12 £52 - £62 per person, booking required.

A Walk in the Park Pindar car park, Windmill Lane Cheshunt, EN8 9AJ visitleevalley.org.uk.

08456 770 600.

2 June -10am-12.30pm Leisurely 2 mile guided walk focusing on the different varieties of orchid growing in the park. Suitable for all.

FREE. Top Dog Tottenham Marshes, Watermead Way, Tottenham, London N17 0XD. visitleevalley.org.uk.

08456 770 600

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What's On 8 June - 9am-2pm Drop into this free dog handling clinic for advice and hands-on training. Including obedience, noise control, aggression management and general poor behaviour. Suitable for all. FREE Lakeside Walk Cruise Broxbourne Riverside Moorings, Nazeing Road, Broxbourne, Hertfordshire EN10 6QT. leevalleyboats.co.uk.

01992 462 085 8 June - 3-6pm Cruise and cream tea, followed by guided walk around Seventy Acres Lake to view wildlife, flora and fauna. Return along the river.

Suitable for all.

Tickets: Adult £15, child £10, booking required.

Fathers Day Cruise Broxbourne Riverside Moorings, Nazeing Road, Broxbourne, Hertfordshire EN10 6LX. leevalleyboats.co.uk.

01992 462 085 16 June – 12.30-3.30pm Treat someone special to a 3 hour river cruise and 3 course roast lunch and relax as the countryside unfolds along the river. Suitable for adults. £25 per person, booking required.

Music at Myddelton Jazz: The Miles Davis Project Band Myddelton House Gardens, Bulls Cross, Enfield, Middlesex EN2 9HG, visitleevalley.org.uk 08456 770 600 23 June - 6-8pm A laid back summer evening enjoying the music in beautiful gardens. Bring a picnic, rug and a bottle of wine! Suitable for all.

Tickets: Adult £7.50, concession £6.

LEE VALLEY PARK FARMS Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey, EN9 2EF 01992 892781 visitleevalley.org.uk/farms At Hayes Hill Farm you can visit the animals, play in the indoor and outdoor areas, have a tractor ride and visit the cows in neighbouring Holyfield Hall farm.

Meet cuddly sheep, giant rabbits, rare breed pigs, long-necked llamas and a meerkat family.

Indoor and outdoor play areas tractor and trailer ride. Suitable for families.

Peak Tickets: Adult £8.50, child (2-16) £7, under 2s FREE (Weekends & Holidays) Off Peak Tickets: Adult £5.20, child (2-16) £4.80, under 2s FREE (Weekends & Holidays)

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A Sheep -tastic time 25 May- 2 June -10am-5pm See our woolly friends have their annual haircut and learn what can be done with wool.

Petunia ’s Pick - Timmy Time 29 May -10am-5pm Timmy Time will be making appearances throughout the day.

It’s a Farmer ’s Life 9 June - 10am-5pm Learn about modern day farming at this working dairy and arable farm. Tours, tractors and hands on activities.

HERTFORD CASTLE Castle Street, Hertford SG14 1HR Castle Open Day 12 May –12-4pm Browse at your leisure. Children’s activities. Falconry displays on the main lawn at 12.30 & 3pm.

Teddy Bears’ Picnic 16 June – 12-4pm Open air band concert, entertainment, activities – don’t forget your teddy!

Free admission Wonderland!

7 July – 12-4pm An Alice in Wonderland themed event in the grounds and castle.

LEIGHTON BUZZARD STEAM RAILWAY Pages Park Station, Billington Road, Leighton Buzzard, LU7 4TN 01525 373888 www.buzzrail.co.uk MEAD OPEN FARM Standbridge Road, Billington, Nr. Leighton Buzzard 01525 852954 www.meadopenfarm.co.uk Open daily 10am-6.30pm (last entry 5.30pm) Prices vary, see website for details.

PARTYMAN WORLD OF PLAY Roaring Meg Retail Park Stevenage, SG1 1XN 01438 745823, stevenage@ partymanworld.co.uk www.partymanworld.co.uk/ stevenage Open daily – 10am-6.30pm Soft play centre.

ROLLERCITY Campus West, The Campus, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6BX 01707 357117 www.welhat.gov.uk/campuswest Easy Like Saturday Morning Sat 10.30am-12.30pm An gentle session when families can practice their skating skills and gain confidence.

Tickets: £7

Dizzy Rascals Sats, Sun – 1-3pm A brilliant atmosphere, where children can get their skates on and have fun! Even parents can have a go! No problem if you are a bit wobbly on your wheels.

Age: under 16s. No DJ Tickets: £7 The Family Jam Sats, Sun – 3.30-5.30pm A fun family session which encourages wobbly skaters and improvers. With DJ playing UK top 40 singles. Age: under 16s Tickets: £7 Half Term Skates 28 May-2 June 1-2.30pm (11s and under) 3-4.30pm (all ages) £5.25 SHENLEY PARK Radlett Lane, Shenley, WD7 9DW 01923 852629 www.shenleypark.co.uk Spring Craft Fair in the Walled Garden 18-19 May – 10am-5pm Original crafts, plants and garden equipment, fine foods, coffee, lunches and afternoon teas overlooking the countryside.

Drop in workshops, children’s entertainment. Free parking.

Entry: £4, children free.

SHEPRETH WILDLIFE PARK Station Road, Shepreth, nr Royston, SG8 6PZ 01763 262226 www.sheprethwildlifepark.co.uk Love Your Zoo Week 27-31 May Raising funds and awareness for the South East Asian conservation projects. Asian animal fun and games.

Tickets: £10.95, £8.95 child/ concs.

STOCKWOOD DISCOVERY CENTRE London Road, Luton LU1 4LX 01582 548600 www. stockwooddiscoverycentre.com Browse the collections and exhibitions, playground and gardens.

Free WHIPPENDELL WOODS Grove Mill Lane, Watford WD17 3TX, 01923 226400 Famous for its bluebells - best time to visit is between the last week of April and the first week of May. Bramble, bracken, Dog’s mercury, and open grassy glades.

WILLOWS FARM VILLAGE Coursers Road, London Colney, St Albans 0870 129 9718 www.willowsfarmvillage.com Open Daily from 10am-5.30pm Adorable animals, acres of adventure play, fun fair rides and children’s shows.

Days out full of character!

Characters will be making appearances at intervals on each day.

Peppa Pig 5-6 May Putting the ‘sty’ in style, everyone’s favourite diva will be ‘hogging’ the limelight with George; the piggy pair will be bestowing ‘hogs’ and kisses to visitors.

Spring Special 25 May - 2 June Enjoy the Spring Half Term at Willows Farm Village with a full day’s programme of farmyard fun including sheep Racing, Scarecrow’s Animal Friend and Horse Displays including ‘Big and Little’, ‘Educated Pony’ and the Miniature Shetland Troupe.

Fireman Sam 9 June Meet Sam and friends in St Albans.

Shaun the Sheep 30 June Shaun will be making a series of ‘baa-rilliant’ appearances.

Mike the Knight 7 July Meet knight-in-training Mike.

WOBURN SAFARI PARK Woburn, Beds MK17 9QN 01525 290407 www.woburn.co.uk/safari Open daily – 10am-6pm (last entry 5pm) Entry: Adult £19.99, Child £14.99 WOODSIDE FARM AND LEISURE PARK Slip End Village, Luton, LU1 4DG 01582 841044 www.woodsidefarm.co.uk Open Mon-Sat – 8am-5.30pm, Sun 9am-5.30pm (last entry 1 hour before closing)

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What's On MUSEUMS BRITISH SCHOOLS MUSEUM 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin, Herts SG4 9TS 01462 420144 admin@hitchinbritishschools. org.uk www.britishschoolsmuseum. co.uk May Day Celebrations 6 May – 10.30am-12.30pm Maypole & and country dancing.

Offley Morris Men. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Free, Donations welcomed.

Victorian Fete 18 May – 10am-2.30pm Steam engines, Victorian bicycles, Punch and Judy, a Victorian RNLI stall, food, books & other stalls.

Make & Play: Games from the Past 29 May – 10.30am-2.30pm (last entry 1.30pm) Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost £3.50 per child The Fair in the Square 22 June Fun and food. See website for further details.

HERTFORD MUSEUM 18 Bull Plain, Hertford, Herts, SG14 1DT 01992 582686 www.hertfordmuseum.org Stay and Play Saturdays 4 May, 1 June, 6 July - 10.30am– 3.30pm Free play session with traditional wooden toys, make something crafty, read a book, explore the galleries.

Free entry, just drop in Toddler Tuesdays 10.30 – 11.30 am 21 May – Choo-choo trains 18 June – Make a dolly Themed crafty activities, play with toys and share a story!

Ages: 2-4 (children must be accompanied by an adult). £1.50 per child including refreshments. Book in advance.

Live Acoustic Music 18 May - 6-9 pm Modest prices for refreshments.

FREE Along the Riverbank Craft Activities 28–30 May - 10.30am–3.30pm (last entry 3 pm) Activities inspired by the history of the Hertford rivers and the

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creatures that inhabit them £1.50 per child, drop-in Hertford Carnival Model Railway Day 23 June - 1-5pm Model railway day; layouts running 1-4pm. Enjoy the parade and model railways layouts.

Free entry IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM Duxford Airfield, Duxford, Cambridge, CB22 4QR 01223 835000 www.iwm.org.uk Tour: Historic Duxford 27, 28, 30, 31 May – 11am Journey through time to meet characters from the past. First World War bombs, aerobatic aeroplanes. Train with the accident-prone Flying Training School. Meet our American allies and cut a rug with the jitterbug.

Ages 6-10 but suitable for children of all ages. £5.10 per child. Advance booking essential. Normal admission prices apply for adults (£17.50, £14 concs, under 16s free) MUSEUM OF ST ALBANS 9a Hatfield Road, St Albans, AL1 3RR 01727 819340 www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk Clock Tower 4 May – 2-3pm Storytelling for all ages. £3 Tots Tales 8 May – 11am & 1.30pm £1 Sopwell Nunnery 11 May – 2-3pm Storytelling for all ages with Olivia Armstrong. £3 Verulamium 18 May – 2-3pm Storytelling for all ages with Kathryn Holt. £3 Sunday Stories 19 May – 3-4pm £1 Rose Warriors Holiday Club 27-31 May – 10:30am-12:30pm Become members of the Houses of Lancaster and York and explore the War of the Roses.

Age: 8 and over. £5 per session or £20 per week per child.

Timeline Painting Event 13 June – 6-10pm Paint a Community Timeline of the History of St Albans. Live music and refreshments.

Free.

Sunday Stories 30 June – 3-4pm £1 MUSEUMS AT NIGHT 2013 www.culture24.org.uk/ museumsatnight 16-18 May Special evening events.

Museums at Night in St Albans 17 May – 6-11pm Torch-light guided tours at the Museum of St Albans £5 Late Night Opening of the Clock Tower £3 Roman Night Life at Verulamium Museum With Roman theatre performances, board games and wine. £10. Evening pass: £15 NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM AT TRING The Walter Rothschild Building, Akeman Street, Tring, Herts, HP3 6AP 020 7942 6171 www.nhm.ac.uk/tring Messy Play for Under 5s Amazing Apple Art 9 May – 11am & 2pm Get crafty with fruits and veg.

Tickets £1.50, available on the day Flower Finger Painting 11 June – 11am & 2pm Create a beautiful flower painting with just your hands.

Tickets £1.50, available on the day Grow a Picture 28 May – 10.15am, 10.45am, 11.15am, 11.45am, 2pm & 2.30pm Make a sunflower collage and take it home. All ages.

Tickets £1.50, available on the day Plants that Bite Back 29 & 31 May – 10.15am, 10.45am, 11.15am, 11.45am, 2pm & 2.30pm Make a snapping plant and insect from craft materials and see who eats whom for lunch. Most suitable for children aged 5+.

Tickets £1.50, available on the day Pond Dipping 30 May – 10.15am What creatures are waiting to be discovered? Most suitable for children aged 5+.

Tickets £3.50, available on the day

RAF MUSEUM Grahame Park Way, London NW9 5LL 020 8205 2266 london@rafmuseum.org, www.rafmuseum.org.uk Open daily Free THE ROALD DAHL MUSEUM AND STORY CENTRE 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden, Bucks, HP16 0AL 01494 892192 www.roalddahlmuseum.org Tues to Sun 10am-5pm Village Visit Day 4 May – 11am-5pm Writing Hut Talks 4 May – 12pm, 1pm & 2pm Crackling Character Creations 5 May – 12.30-1.30pm & 2-3pm Whizzbanging Words with Josh Lacey 6, 29 May – 12.30-1.30pm & 2-3pm Discover Dahl’s Archives 11 May, 1 June – 12.30pm, 1.30pm & 2.30pm Fantastic Fingerprint Art 12 May – 12.30-1.30pm & 2-3pm Crodscolloping Chocolate Decorating 18 May – 11.30am, 1pm, 2.30pm & 3.45pm Design a Trogswizzling Tortoise 19 May Splendiferous African Animals 25 May – 12.30-1.30pm & 2-3pm Matilda’s Mind-Muggling Tricks 26 May Wondercrump Woodland Creatures 27 May Muggled Mirror Paintings 28 May Oompa Loompa Chocolate Box 29 May – 11am-12pm Buckswashling Biscuit Beasts 30 May Buzzwangling Bug Jars 31 May – 11am-12pm Jumbly Giraffes and Catasterous Crocs 2 June George’s Jumpsquiffling Pets 8 June The Giraffe and the Pelly and Sweets!

9 June

Whizz-popping Wind Socks 15 June Where’s Esio Trot?

16 June Mrs Twit’s Revolting Nose 22 June Wondercrump Woodland Creatures 23 June

FESTIVALS & FUN DAYS BOPPING BABES boppingbabes@yahoo.com Royal British Legion Harpenden AL5 2HU 2 June – 1-4pm Disco for adults, babies & children up to age 6. Disco lights and face-painting. £5 for adult & child, £10 family (2 adults & 2 children) CUNNINGHAM HILL INFANTS SCHOOL May fair Cell Barnes Lane, St Albans, AL1 5QJ www.cunninghaminfants.herts. sch.uk 18 May - 11-2pm Face-painting, bouncy-castle, arts and crafts, Zumba demonstration, stalls, guess the weight of the cake, BBQ! GREENWAY SCHOOL Crossways, Berkhamsted, HP4 3NH May Festival 18 May -- 11am-2pm Fun, refreshments and games.

HARPENDEN CARNIVAL Rothamsted Park www.harpendenroundtable.org 8 June – 12pm start Entry by programme purchased in advance from around the town or at the gate on the day.

HARPENDEN COMMON DISCOVERY DAY Harpenden Common 15 June – 10am-5pm Dog show, sheep shearing, falconry displays, dancing dogs, circus skills, ferret racing.

Information stalls from bees to bats and bowl carving to goats and spinning. Have-a-go archery, beat the goalie and welly wanging.

Free

HERTFORD CARNIVAL Hartham Common 23 June – 12-6pm Cartoon Characters theme.

Procession through the town, entertainment and stalls, fun fair and classic car display HERTFORDSHIRE COUNTY SHOW The Showground, Dunstable Road, Redbourn, AL3 7PT www.hertsshow.com 25 & 26 May Huge bulls to tiny ducks, displays and educational demonstrations.

Entertainment, fun, food and shopping.

Tickets: In advance - Adult: £13.20, Child: £6.40 (5-15yrs, under 5s free), Family: £32.80 two adults & two children), Senior: £11.60 (Over 60) On the Day - Adult: £16.50, Child: £8 (5- 5yrs, under 5›s free), Family: £41 two adults & two children), Senior: £14.50 (Over 60) RICKMANSWORTH FESTIVAL Rickmansworth Aquadrome, Frogmore Lane, Rickmansworth www.rwt.org.uk 18-19 May A festival celebrating the canals and local community. Listen to live music (jazz, rock, folk) on one of the numerous stages. Plus, dog show, drumming workshop, morris dancing and much more.

Free entry, donations welcome. £2 per person is suggested. Car parking £3 all day.

ROWANS PRIMARY SCHOOL Rowans, Welwyn Garden City, AL7 1NZ Happy’s Circus 26 May – Gate at 12pm, Show at 2pm Two hour show, fun fair, stalls, face painting.

Tickets: £5 per person (under 1s free) ROYAL GUNPOWDER MILLS Beaulieu Drive, Waltham Abbey, Essex, EN9 1JY 01992 707370 www.royalgunpowdermills.com VE Day Event 4-6 May – 10am-5pm (last admission 3.30pm) Second World War - Victory in Europe event. Military vehicles, air displays, a Hurricane on Sunday, and Spitfire on Monday (weather permitting).

Street parties, music, dancing, performances and food from the Home Front. Afternoons - noisy

skirmish between the German and Allied re-enactors.

Entry: £10, £8 concs, £7 child, under 3s free SAUNCEY WOOD SCHOOL Sauncey Wood Primary School, Pickford Hill, Harpenden, AL5 5HL Summer Fair 15 June See ‘Sauncey Wood Primary School’ on Facebook.

ST HELENS SCHOOL Brewhouse Hill, Wheathampstead, AL4 8AN Summer Fair 15 June – 12-3pm Children’s activities, plant stall, tea room, BBQ, and ice creams.

SPONSORED WALKS & RUNS GROVE HOUSE MIDNIGHT WALK St. Albans City Football Club, Clarence Park, St. Albans, AL1 4PL 11 May – 10pm 5 or 10 mile route starting at 10pm.

Register your place: visit www.midnightwalk.org or call the event hotline on 01727 731002.

LEE VALLEY 10K & FAMILY FUN RUN River Lee Country Park Showground www.leevalley10k.com 14 July – from 10am (fun run at 11am) All ages and abilities welcome to race the scenic, traffic free pathways. Free car parking on site. Booking recommended.

Entry: £10 for the 10k and £5 for the Fun Run ST ALBANS HALF MARATHON www.stalbanshalfmarathon.co.uk 01727 827667 Children’s Fun Run 9 June – 10.20am 1½ mile fun run. All finishers will receive a medal, t shirt, goody bag and ice lolly. In Verulamium Park.

Ages 12 and under. Parents/ Guardians can enter with their children. Children aged 8 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult. Wheelchair friendly (on grass).

Child: £7 (12 & under), 13-17yrs: £5, Adult (18+): £5

Say you saw it in

DIARY DATES LONDON PET SHOW 2013 Earls Court Two, London www.londonpetshow.co.uk 0844 873 7332 11-12 May Including skateboarding chickens, racing micro-pigs and doggy dancers.

Entrance: £14 adults, £9.50 children, under 5s free MUMS SHOW LIVE www.mumshowlive.com Alexandra Palace Alexandra Palace Way London N22 7AY 16 May – 4-9pm 17-19 May – 10am-5pm Targeted for parents of 4-12 year olds. Games, activities and entertainment.

Tickets: £10 in advance, £15 on the door

NCT NEARLY NEW SALES CHILDREN’S CLOTHING, EQUIPMENT, TOYS, BOOKS, VIDEOS, MATERNITY WEAR. Dunstable Branch Watling Lower School, Bull Pond Lane, Dunstable, LU6 3BJ nnsdunstable@gmail.com 18 May – 11.45am-1pm Admission at 11:30 for NCT Members (with membership card).

Admission: £1, free parking on Bullpond Lane.

Aylesbury Branch The Grange School, Wendover Way, Aylesbury, HP21 7NH nctaylesbury_nns@yahoo.co.uk 29 June 11.30am-1pm NCT Members from 11am – with valid membership card.

Admission: £1.

WEST HERTS BREASTFEEDING PEER SUPPORT NETWORK www.westhertsbreast feedingpeersupport.com Daily drop-ins for breastfeeding support across Dacorum, sponsored by the NCT and local Children’s Centres.

Free.

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