Families Suffolk July-Aug Issue 6

MAGAZINE

EE FR

THE LOCAL

for families with children 0-12 years ISSUE 6 JULY / AUGUST 2012

w w w.f a m i l i e s s u ff o l k .c o .u k

r e m Sum of t r o p S

IN THIS ISSUE

Local News - Baby Talk - Childrens Health - Suffolk Summer of Sport - plus Free Summer Fun For Kids I P S W I C H • R U S H M E R E • B E L S T E A D • W H E R S T E A D • P I N E W O O D • K E S G R AV E • H E N L E Y • W I T N E S H A M N A C T O N • H O L B R O O K • S H O T L E Y • C L AY D O N • W O O D B R I D G E • H A D L E I G H • S T O W M A R K E T

co ntent s 3

Local News

5

Summer of Sport Spectacular

6

Baby Talk

7

How to help children deal with grief

8

Our Community

My little monkeys, Evie and Jack

Hello from Families Suffolk magazine. I really hope that like us you enjoyed some fun Jubilee celebrations and a great half term week despite the weather. There is still so much to look forward to this summer with the Olympics and the long school summer holidays, so we have tried with this issue to help you enjoy both of these as much as possible.

On page 5 we have highlighted all the key dates for the Olympics and pages 11-14 provide you with many holiday activity ideas including two pages of FREE summer fun ideas. Our regular baby talk and our community pages are squeezed into the issue, plus the parents place pages and finally on page 7 an article on assisting children deal with grief. Due to this rather jam-packed summer issue the usual What’s On listings are featured on our website, www. familiessuffolk.co.uk.

I would also like to welcome a new member to the Families Suffolk team, Louise Dawson is now working on updating the website daily with offers, events and articles, plus updating the online Families Suffolk directory and keeping everyone in touch with what we’re doing via Facebook and Twitter.

So now there is even more reason to get in touch and let us know about your club or class, event, charity, workplace, school or nursery, or even a recommendation on a place to visit or activity and we will let everyone else know about it too.

Have a fantastic summer, we look forward to hearing from you.

Lisa Giddings – Editor.

You can contact us via email:

Reflux - a parents story

Articles from Suffolk County Council Fostering and Adoption, Paralympic Torch Relay Celebrations in Needham Market and the Dame Vera Lynn Trust

editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk facebook.com/FamiliesSuffolk twitter.com/Familiessuffolk scan for our website NEXT ISSUE Sept /Oct 2012 CIRCULATION 13,000 copies of Families Suffolk are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected shops and other distribution points throughout Suffolk. If you would like free copies for your organisation, please contact us.

CONTACT DETAILS 01473 788546 / 07887 945767 editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk EDITORIAL, ADVERTISING AND ARTWORK editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk EVENTS, DIARY DATES, OUT & ABOUT editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk ORIGINAL DESIGN Creative Joy Sproughton, Ipswich 01473 744884 studio@creativejoy.co.uk www.creativejoy.co.uk

DESIGN AND EDITING Richard Jarmy www.richardjarmy.co.uk info@richardjarmy.co.uk 07799 031 820 PRINT Five Castles Press Ltd, Raeburn Road South, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP3 0ET Telephone 01473 718719 www.fivecastles.co.uk Families Suffolk is part of the Families group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license.

We take every care preparing the magazine, but the publishers and distributers can’t be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, the accuracy of the contents nor for any correspondences.

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Parents Place Helping get you and your family ready for your holiday plus our parent to parent interview

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Take the Family Challenge

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Free Summer Fun for Kids COVER IMAGE LOUIS KIDD

AGED 7 YEARS OLD FROM KESGRAVE

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To contribute to future issues editionsplease pleaseemail emaileditor@familiessuffolk.co.uk editor@familiessuffolk.co.ukororcall call 01473 01473788546 000000

local news Eating out for less has just got easier…

We know how hard it is at the moment to pay the bills, let alone have a treat. Add in the extra expenses that children bring and every penny counts for that special occasion, holiday treat or, dare we suggest, an actual “date night”.

With 6 siblings, 16 nieces and nephews, and two children counted up between us, we realise at Suffolk Meal Deals the money constraints families have, and The Swan at Lavenham how eating out is now even more of a luxury. Living in Suffolk with the wealth of local ingredients and excellent chefs makes it even harder to go without! We decided to start a company that would try to bridge that gap so we can all still have that lunch or dinner out, whilst supporting small local businesses in the region.

Our philosophy as a local company is to support local quality independent restaurants and allow people to sign up easily, for free, with no obligation.

Hopefully, with our range of offers, there is something for everyone, which means everyone can now experience the wealth of high-end eateries that are based in our county- for less.

All you need to do to take advantage of these fantastic offers is register online at www.suffolkmealdeals.co.uk for free.

Once registered you can view all the promotions and deals we offer on our website. You will also be sent new offers once a week by email, giving you the chance to sample the best culinary delights that the region has to offer as soon as the deals are available.

So next time a friend says do you want to meet for lunch, you want to take your partner out for an anniversary meal or you have a special occasion to celebrate, we hope Suffolk Meal Deals can provide great value but give everyone the opportunity to feel special! - www.suffolkmealdeals.co.uk

The Usborne Foundation launches free online reading game Teach Your Monster to Read: First Steps The Usborne Foundation, a charitable fund established by Peter Usborne (Usborne Publishing) to support initiatives to develop early literacy, has launched Teach Your Monster to Read: First Steps (www.teachyourmonstertoread.com), a free online game to help children practice and consolidate the essential first stages of reading.

Aimed at beginners (both those who are on track and those who need more support reading), Teach Your Monster to Read is a colourful and engaging game, which follows the teaching sequence in the UK Government-recommended “Letters and Sounds” programme. It develops children’s speed and accuracy off letter recognition by taking them on a fantastic adventure through a magical world where they meet island kings and collect letters to win prizes.

A new children’s nursery for Framlingham!

Framlingham now has a new childcare facility following the recent opening of Framlingham Day Nursery. The nursery is the latest venture by husband and wife team, Dan and Tina Powick, who have built up an excellent reputation over the last six years at Rendlesham Day Nursery and Bridge Farm Day Nursery in Martlesham which both received ‘outstanding’ grades in their most recent Ofsted inspections. The recent Ofsted inspection at Framlingham was also successful. The report states “Children flourish at this well-equipped, bright and inviting nursery and are making very good progress through the Early Years Foundation Stage.”

Like Rendlesham and Bridge Farm Nurseries, Framlingham Day Nursery provides full day care from 8am-6pm all year round for children aged between 6 months and 5 years old. Owner Tina Powick says, “The research we have done indicated that Framlingham was in need of a childcare facility that offered all year round, full day care for 0-5 year olds. The success we have enjoyed in Rendlesham and Martlesham has been based around recruiting the most dedicated and qualified staff that we can and we are doing the same in Framlingham.”

For more information on Framlingham, Bridge Farm or Rendlesham Day Nursery, call 01728 723192 or email - info@framlinghamdaynursery.co.uk

Parenting Concerns? Why not join Ipswich Parenting Hubs.

The Ipswich Parenting Hubs (the IPH) is a positive parenting group run by parents, for parents in local areas. They meet informally once a month for coffee, chat and a chance to hear talks from local people who work with children. Information is available to take away and parenting professionals are on hand to speak informally about any ideas, questions or concerns parents may have about parenting. Each hub has two parent champions (local Mums who have been through a positive parenting programme) to support other parents and to give confidence to those as yet too shy to accept or seek support.

Ana Vicente is one such Parent Champion, and says ‘I am a Parent Champion for my local parenting hub as a volunteer but I’m just a mum.

I join them just to be able to help other mums by sharing my experience and also to learn with other parents by listening to others. It has been a great experience because I feel that I’ve learnt so much’.

So far 6 parenting hubs have been run and the talks have included emotional wellbeing, the teenage brain, money and finance for families, The ADHD factor and from these talks big benefits to parents are emerging.

The hubs are helping parents form positive networks, provide peer support, embed the learning from the parenting programmes, build the confidence and abilities of parents and Parent Champions, promote positive family relationships and foster community friendships and cohesion.

Parenting hubs are located in the Chantry and Nacton areas and a new one is due to open in the Whitton area of Ipswich.

For more information: carole.williams@ipswich.gov.uk

Featuring the voice of Simon Farnaby from BBC’s Horrible Histories, it allows children to adopt a monster who has crash-landed his spaceship. They must guide him through a series of islands, practising letters to help him read his handbook, rebuild his ship and fly home. It explores blending and segmenting, and introduces “tricky” words in a fun, interactive setting.

To play Teach Your Monster to Read visit www.teachyourmonstertoread.com www.familiessuffolk.co.uk

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local news A Montessorian Memoir The highly regarded Foxglove Montessori School in Suffolk has recently been congratulated, for the fantastic care and education of hundreds of children. The double retirement of Maryann Vagg (Principal) and Gilly Vansittart (set for July 2012) has prompted a celebratory memoir in their honour. A collection of the nurseries’ history, origins and teaching methods have been collated, with photographs and memorabilia covering the 28 years of pre-school activity. The good weather held out for the official book launch which took place on Wednesday 13th June. Parents toasted the ‘Foxglove Ladies’ for their continued love and support, to each and every child that attends the nursery.

The book is now on sale. All profits will go to The Future Hope Montessori School in Kenya which supports 120 vulnerable and aids affected children. The books are priced at £11.95 plus £2 postage and packaging. Please send a cheque payable to L Baker, 32 Chilton Avenue, Stowmarket, IP14 1LB or alternatively contact Foxglove Nursery direct. For enquires or collections please call 01449 616615.

An emotional but celebratory end of term will be concluded with the “Foxfest” picnic fundraiser and retirement event. The gathering of parents, children and former pupils will take place at Foxgloves, The Kingsfield Centre, Onehouse Road, Stowmarket on July 13th from 3.30pm. A formal presentation will be made to Maryann and Gilly at 5pm for their 22 years of outstanding work and dedication. The organisers welcome all those who would like to attend.

Reading Eggs and Reading Eggspress – 5 week free trial Children love working and playing on the computer and the Reading Eggs and Reading Eggspress programs are all about bringing out the best in each child using unique worlds of interactive reading and writing activities. Children love working and playing on the computer and the Reading Eggs and Reading Eggspress programs are all about bringing out the best in each child using unique worlds of interactive reading and writing activities.

The Reading Eggs program…

Reading Eggs includes 120 literacy lessons that take a child from foundation stage through to the end of key stage 1. Children are able to choose their own adventure from a wide range of activities and places to go

The Reading Eggspress program …

Using a highly engaging spinning island, children are instantly involved and interested. They explore a complete world with a wide variety of both learning and fun experiences. The range of activities motivates students to return regularly to complete lessons, compete against others, earn more rewards and improve their skills.

Both the Reading Eggs and Reading Eggspress programs have a comprehensive reporting system that tracks progress so that students and their parents can clearly see each child’s achievements.

Using promotional code UKS24SUF you can trial the programs for free for an extended period of 5 weeks. Simply visit www.readingeggs.co.uk, register your email address and once your account has been set up you can enter the code on your parent dashboard.

Happy Eggsploring!

Family Fun at Golf East Golf East the region’s biggest ever golf show: ‘staged by golfers, for golf, for everyone’ takes place on 14th and 15th July at, Trinity Park, Ipswich. The family show is aimed at the experienced and non experienced golfer alike. There will be pros providing taster lessons and clinics, junior facilities, try then buy opportunities and a real hands on experience. The Show is also a chance to provide easy routes for beginners to take up the game and to encourage anyone who has ever wanted to have a go to find all they will need in one place over one weekend. With fashion shows throughout the day, trick shot entertainment, gadgets and gizmos, interactive and kids play areas and a Sanctuary marquee for those who don’t find golf the be and end all, it promises to be a great family day out and incredibly good value.

For more information see www.golfeast.co.uk or e-mail teeoff@golfeast.co.uk twitter @golfeastshow

Bramford Torch Celebrations – Family Fun Day It’s going to be a great afternoon full of fun activities for all the family with a free burger or hotdog from the BBQ for the first 200 people! So why not go along and join in the celebrations.

The event will begin with a 2k Fun Run for people aged 10 years and over which goes around the local river meadow area, finishing up at the Church, and in true sporting event style there are medals for the winners. The run is £1 to enter and you can just turn up and enter on the day. There will be lots of fun for the children with a bouncy castle, face painting, balloon modelling, mini 2012 events for the children to take part in and hopefully win their very own medal, plus much more.

Outside of the sporting activities there will be stalls and activities for all the family to enjoy, including displays of photography, Lait Dancers, art, spinning, weaving and quilting. Plus there will be refreshments and homemade cakes and ice creams to tempt you! All the fun is going to be accompanied by a live band to entertain everyone all afternoon.

A Scarecrow Competition with an London 2012 theme is open to everyone so start planning your creation now.

Again this is £1 to enter, all you need do is bring your creation on the morning of the event for it to be displayed in the Churchyard. All this plus the Village Flower Show in the Victory Hall.

For the grand finale there is a Duck Race on the River Gipping at 4.30pm, tickets are on sale.

So for a great day out for all the family, put the date in your diary and go along.

If you would like to help out and volunteer your time, or have a stall or activity you would like to run, or have any questions regarding the event please contact

Caroline Wolton 01473 742826

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To contribute to future issues please email editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk or call 01473 788546

summer sport spectacular The London 2012 Games: A Summer Spectacular After years of effort, dedication and anticipation, it’s nearly here! The London 2012 Games marks a defining moment for athletes of Team GB and Paralympics GB - a chance to show the world what they can do on home soil. in Buckinghamshire is home to the Paralympic Games and will host a Paralympic Torch Relay event on 28th August.

London 2012 will be remembered for years to come and it’s not just London that will be buzzing this summer. There are all kinds of activities for the family to enjoy together. Whether you make a trip to London, continue to follow the Olympic Flame, catch the action at a host of venues outside of London, or watch the action on big screens across the UK, there is a lot to do and see this summer. and that create memories that last a lifetime. This is the stuff of magic moments!

London 2012 for free If you were not lucky enough to get Olympic or Paralympic tickets, you can still see some of the worlds top athletes in action this summer. Some of the best open-air action is free to enjoy without tickets. Events like the marathon and road races offer the chance to see world-class athletes in peak performances against the magnificent backdrop of the London skyline.

London 2012 outside of London There’s much more to London 2012 than events in London. You’ll also be able to watch a piece of the action everywhere from Cardiff to Glasgow and Manchester to Weymouth. Plus, Stoke Mandeville

London 2012 on the big screen If you can’t make it to any of the regional venues, why not head to your local live site. Live Sites are big screens located in every UK nation and region. They are great places to enjoy the best live action – as well as plenty more entertainment. Why not take the family along and enjoy a picnic. www.london2012.com/join-in London 2012 Festival The London 2012 Festival is the biggest festival the UK has ever seen and features 12,000 events and performances at over 900 venues featuring artists from across the world coming together in celebration of the Games. The Festival started in June and runs through to the 9th September when the Paralympic Games end and the Games are handed over to Rio. The Festival is all about getting involved – so why not bring the kids along. There are many events you can attend that are family friendly and in every corner of the UK. Visit www. London2012.com/festival - for a full list of events you can enjoy.

Key dates 27th July The Opening Ceremony

28th July The Olympic Games begin

12th August The Closing Ceremony

24th – 29th August The Paralympic Torch Relay

29th August The Paralympic Games begin

Suffolk’s Summer of Sport It’s going to be a great summer for sport!

For Suffolk youngsters who want to get involved in sport, there’s a fantastic new website full of opportunities across the county.

The Suffolk Summer of Sport aims to bring together sporting opportunities taking place over the summer under one banner to make it easy for young people to take part in sport.

Activities on offer are wide and varied and currently include athletics, cricket, equestrian, golf, gymnastics, judo, multi-sports, orienteering, rugby, swimming, table-tennis and tennis. Many clubs and organisations have put on sessions at reduced prices and some are even FREE! Young people can visit the Suffolk Summer of Sport website -

www.suffolksummerofsport.com

Choose from the activities on offer and follow in the footsteps of this summer’s sporting heroes. You can search by postcode to see what’s on in your area, or you can search by activity if you have a particular favourite.

It’s hoped that the campaign will help turn some of the enthusiasm for sport that will inevitably be created amongst young people by the London 2012 Games in to long term participation in sport and inevitably contribute towards the collective ambition of Suffolk becoming the most active county in England.

Despite over 50 organisations already offering activities as part of the Suffolk Summer of Sport organisers have issued a call to any sports club or organisation not yet involved to sign up and help Suffolk young people to choose sport.

Clubs and organisations interested in getting involved in the campaign should contact the project team at

info@suffolksummerofsport.com

www.familiessuffolk.co.uk

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baby talk Living with reflux Before you have a baby, you’re told to see feeding time as a time of bonding. But for some mums, it’s anything but. Families Suffolk looks at how living with a baby with reflux can drive you to the very brink of despair.

Vicki Gilbert is a third time mum. To see pictures of her, her husband Sean and her happy smiling children in the early stages of baby Joe’s life, it’s hard to believe what was going on every time she closed the front door.

“From being a couple of weeks old, Joe would scream and scream,” Vicki remembers. “At one point, the screaming went on for 18 hours a day. He was hysterical when you laid him down for a nappy change. He screamed through every car journey. The only respite we got was a 5 hour stretch at night when he literally passed out from exhaustion. It pushed us to the end of our tethers.”

SURVIVOR S IN TRANSITION

Drop in sessions held in Ipswich, Felixstowe and Beccles for adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse.

Contact us for further information Phone or text: 07765052282 BBM: 2255DF13 www.survivorsintransition.co.uk

Early Days™ groups give you the opportunity to explore different approaches to important parenting issues with a qualified group leader and other new parents in your area. The sessions are designed to help you feel confident about the decisions and choices that you make for your baby. You can share ideas and experiences, and help others to do the same, so that you can support each other as you learn more about your skills as a parent.

"This

course was the turning point for me after baby, helping me to build a new baby-friendly social life and providing some much needed support and perspective when I most needed it.” - new mum

Antenatal and Early Days Classes – bookings5f@nct.org.uk For further information please contact General Enquiries on 0844 243 6174 or go to www.nct.org.uk/branches/ipswich-eastsuffolk

Reflux is the contents of the stomach coming back up into the gullet. The acid causes a burning sensation which can make baby vomit, arch their back and cry inconsolably. It’s thought about half of all babies have reflux in the first 3 months of their lives to some degree, with most developing it at about 2 months. That figure reduces to 5% by the time babies are 10 months old.

Babies get reflux because the stomach valve hasn’t developed properly. That valve keeps the food and the acid, in the stomach. When it’s not working properly and baby is full, that food and acid comes back up.

Symptoms vary dependent on the child and the severity of the case, but the inconsolable crying described by Vicki is common.

“Nothing worked. It was utterly heartbreaking. I remember being in my bedroom and shouting to my husband to call an ambulance. We never actually did it, but we were so near on so many occasions.”

Vicki’s story is repeated on forums and in chat rooms across the internet. There are stories of families who have been driven to the brink by their babies’ suffering. Many turn to Alison Scott-Wright, an expert in reflux also known as The Magic Sleep Fairy.

“New mothers assume that feeding their newborn will be a positive experience,” explains Alison. “Sadly this isn’t true for those whose babies suffer from reflux. Reflux can’t be cured, but it can be controlled. We have to crack the ‘reflux code’ for each baby to find out what helps relieve the individual symptoms.”

Those symptoms vary. For some it’s excessive vomiting, irritability, a white coating on the tongue, excessive mucus, refusal to feed and poor sleep habits. These sleep habits are a product of the pain your child is experiencing, and it’s those habits that can remain long after the baby has outgrown the reflux. For babies with ‘silent’ reflux – that’s all the pain and irritability, without the vomiting – diagnosis is more difficult. But Alison Scott-Wright says it’s vital parents listen to even the youngest of babies.

“Babies cry to communicate. If they are crying for long periods of time, then there’s something wrong and, in my experience, it’s usually a digestive issue.”

Vicki Gilbert found support from her local GP and says without that, she’s not sure how she would have coped. He listened, explained and prescribed medication that has, after 7 months, eased Joe’s pain. Leeds based Consultant Paediatric Surgeon Emma Sidebottom says it is important to consult with your health care professionals about treatments – like products to thicken milk which helps baby keep it down, as well as acid blockers.

“Some parents experiment with the hungry baby milks. These are designed to stay in the stomach for longer. But if you have a baby with reflux, milks like that will make it worse.”

If you’re not getting the support you need from your GP, Emma says you can ask to be referred to your local hospital’s Paediatric Clinic. The specialists there will be able to see children at much shorter notice than waiting for a GP refererral.

“Remember that 99% of babies with reflux will outgrow It completely without any treatment,” adds Emma Sidebottom. “Reflux is made better by your baby growing. The two milestones are starting on solids – which stay down better than milk – and children becoming more upright. It will get better.”

And it is getting better for Vicki Gilbert and 7 month old Joe. He’s on a cocktail of medication that has brought his symptoms under control. For the past month, life has been a little more normal. Like many children with reflux, he’s developed poor sleep habits but that’s a battle for later. The sleep he does take is in a cot propped up at an angle. Vicki says it’s been incredibly tough, but she hopes other parents of babies with reflux will take strength from her experience.

“If your instinct tells you something is wrong, don’t listen to those who say your baby is ‘unsettled’ or ‘colicky’.

Seek help from your GP. If they won’t listen, see another GP in the practice. It is NOT normal for babies to scream for hours on end.”

TOP 5 TIPS FROM THE MAGIC SLEEP FAIRY 1 Research, research, research. Go on online forums and chat to others mums. Look at www. livingwithreflux.org or www.littlerefluxers.co.uk. Also, join my Facebook page and get advice of other parents.

2 Keep a journal. Include videos of any reflux episodes by your baby and photos. Use these when visiting health care professionals.

3 Go to your GP and make them listen. This may mean you returning time and again.

4 Get someone to come along to the GP with you. If you are suffering from a lack of sleep and are emotionally charged, you may need support to get your case across.

5 Remember, you are your baby’s only voice. That inconsolable cry is trying to tell you something.

Trust your instinct and don’t be fobbed off.

Alison Scott-Wright is author of The Sensational Baby Sleep Plan and an expert in infant reflux.

www.alisonscott-wright.com Helpful local support websites www.nct.org.uk/branches/ipswich-and-east-suffolk www.home-start.org.uk www.nhs.uk www.babysenses.co.uk www.babycalm.co.uk www.mama2mama.co.uk www.lazydaisybirthing.co.uk

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To contribute to future issues please email editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk or call 01473 788546

supporting your child through grief SUPPORTING YOUR CHILD THROUGH GRIEF - Part 1 It’s a sad fact, but at some point in their young life, your child will lose a loved one.

How do you help them process their grief and when do children need professional support? Families editor Sarah Butters spoke to Dan Bordoley, Children and Young People’s Worker at St Gemma’s Hospice in Moortown.

The branches of the Tree of Life at St Gemma’s Hospice are filled with delicate copper leaves inscribed with the names of those who have died there. Each of the leaves represents a life lost, a family bereaved. Dan Bordoley has supported hundreds of children through their grief. The smiling faces looking out of the latest newsletter from his department reveal that he’s doing vital work. Dan supports children dealing with the very worst sort of loss – often a parent - and says there’s as many different ways of grieving as there are children.

“Everyone grieves in their own way, at their own pace,” explains Dan. “Most model their parents, especially younger children. Very young children tend not to understand and so don’t accept the person has gone.

They think they’re coming back. Death doesn’t mean the same to a young child as it does to you and me. That changes when they get to about 6 years old. Then they begin to understand the person who has died, isn’t coming back. They will have feelings but at that age, can struggle with verbalizing them.”

Honesty and direct, real language are the key to communicating with children. There’s a natural instinct as a parent to want to protect your child from sadness and loss, but most of the children Dan works with say they prefer to know what’s going on. It gives them the chance to ask questions, and gives parents the chance to explain things. Open and honest language is also vital.

“Be clear with the words you use. Don’t be afraid to say ‘death’ and ‘dying’ otherwise the child will be confused,” Dan explains. “If you say you’ve ‘lost’ someone, a child thinks they can be found. If you say someone has ‘fallen asleep’ a child thinks they can be woken, or they can be scared to go to sleep themselves.”

Saturday 15th September 2012 Christchurch Park, Ipswich Bolton Lane entrance Meet at 10am for the walk (various routes available), followed by tea and cake from 11am in the Visitor Centre.

Contact nctipswich@gmail.com to register and for more info.

Dan’s work combines individual and family counseling with group workshops. The workshops use art, drama, dance and sport to either focus the children’s mind on working through their grief, or providing a positive distraction with young people going through the same experiences. At the moment Dan’s planning a sailing trip and some self defence classes. However one of the most poignant exercises is ‘A Day to Remember’.

“It’s a very direct look at a child’s grief, but done in a fun way,” says Dan. “It’s a day of arts and crafts focused around the person who has died. It allows the children to process the memories, and not just the good ones. It’s about remembering the whole person.”

Art is a big part of the therapy and Dan uses drawing with the children. When the words run out, drawing a picture can be a way of communicating feelings. The walls of the art room are covered with work from both those being treated there and the children they leave behind.

“A useful exercise to do with a child is to divide a piece of paper into three sections,” explains Dan. “This is before, during and the future. Get the child to draw a picture in each area. It helps to start a conversation, acknowledge what’s happened but importantly to see there’s a future. This can take some children 10 minutes and others much longer.”

Dan will see about 100 children this year aged between 5 and 16 years old. He describes his job as a privilege. The children he’s supported over his 5 years there have taught him a positive and important lesson about the human spirit that can give every grieving family hope in their darkest hour.

“Most children are OK. Yes, they will be changed. Yes, the experience will stay with them for life. But they’ll be OK.” WHAT DO I SAY TO MY CHILD? *Tell them the truth. Excluding them can make them feel left out and resentful. By talking to them YOU control the information and keep communication channels open. *Use clear, real language. *Let your child know it’s OK to ask questions. They will have worries and concerns and verbalizing them can help keep them in perspective. Younger children will ask the same question over again. Be patient. *Don’t hide your emotions from your child. By showing you are upset, you are giving them permission to show they are upset. *Keep your boundaries in place. Children become confused when the boundaries they’ve lived with disappear. If they’re badly behaved, tell them. If they’ve got a routine, stick to it. You’re giving them a stability at a time when life feels very unstable. *Look out for changes in behaviour – anger, anxiety, worry, fear of being abandoned. Their fears may be irrational but listen and respond in a straightforward and truthful manner. *Consult the professionals. If you feel your child isn’t communicating or coping then ask for support.

Useful Websites Child Bereavement Charity - www.childbereavement.org.uk Child Bereavement Network - www.childhoodbereavementnetwork.org.uk Winston’s Wish - www.winstonswish.org.uk

Hypnotherapy Helping children with anxiety.

Fears phobias, panic attacks Nail biting Bedwetting Shyness, problems making friends Anger, tantrums, bad behaviour

Part 2 - The Story behind ‘The Copper Tree’ Death. It’s a topic no one wants to think about but almost all families will have to deal with at some point. For most, it’s the passing of an elderly relative, but for some it’s the loss of someone much younger. It’s not a topic traditionally tackled in children’s fiction, until now.

The story behind ‘The Copper Tree’ can be viewed in full online www.familiessuffolk.co.uk

Insomnia, nightmares Exam nerves

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

Call: 07855 798 789

www.familiessuffolk.co.uk

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our community pages The Dame Vera Lynn Trust School for Parents Based in Sproughton, Ipswich, is an independent pre-school for children who have difficulties with movement and co-ordination. The children have a wide range of conditions including Down’s Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Infantile Spasms, Chromosomal Abnormalities or Autism. Many have no diagnosis.

It offers them a vital lifeline to others who understand what they are going through and are going through similar experiences.

Suffolk School for Parents provides a unique and holistic form of pre-school education inspired by and using some of the methods used at the Peto Andras Institute for Conductive Education in Budapest. They believe that this form of education is designed to stimulate and awaken the child’s senses and encourage self –awareness through activities and experiences that are fun for both the parents/carers and their child. Conductive Education is about maximising a child’s potential by breaking down the complexities of learning, by structured and achievable targets, which are repeated time and time again until the child is able to do them independently. These challenging yet achievable activities are planned to enable children to succeed and promote independence.

Yvette, a school team member, explained that it was this support which prompted her to apply to work at the school. “My first contact with the School was as a parent when I attended with my daughter. We both received a lot of support and when the opportunity arose for a position at the School, I applied, as I wanted to help other families who were in a similar situation as myself. The work is both challenging and rewarding and I hope that I am making a difference to the families who attend at a time when the future feels very confusing for them.”

Rebecca whose son attends the school said “I have found the Dame Vera Lynn School for Parents a real positive for my son Callum. In the last year Callum has been attending, he has had many highs and lows with setbacks in his development. The Dame Vera Lynn Trust adapts well with Callum and keeps encouraging him to achieve the targets set. A very helpful and positive group to attend.”

The children are active participants in their learning and can adapt skills learnt to a range of situations. This promotes problem solving and independence.

The earlier they begin; the most successful they are likely to be. In addition to Conductive Education they follow The Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum and adhere to all statutory regulations.

The strength of this type of education is that the parents/carers are a primary focus of the sessions, the school have always recognised that parents are the primary motivators of the young child. Working collaboratively with parents increases the effectiveness of intervention by promoting the child’s development, but also it helps to increase parent’s confidence in their own knowledge and abilities. Suffolk School for Parents aims to empower parents by developing their skills and confidence in identifying and addressing their own child’s needs and achievements.

“School for Parents has been a beacon of hope, knowing that we could come to a place where James could access opportunities of learning. Sharing with other mums has given us a huge amount of support and practical help. Since day one we never looked back.” Claire, Parent.

Parents also have needs, such as coming to terms with the diagnosis, these need to be addressed if the family is to function well. School for Parents offers the opportunity for parents to support each other in dealing with the everyday challenges and issues involved in having a child with disabilities.

Parents/carers work with their child – usually as part of a group – using toys, games and songs to make the tasks fun. The important thing is that they are involved together in the learning process and everything that is done in the classroom is closely related to what they would do in the home.

Families attend the school for one 2 ½ hour session per week. The service is free of charge to the parents and the school receives no statutory funding to deliver the service.

Therefore they are always looking to the community to consider supporting them with their fundraising events and activities and endeavour to offer as much help as possible.

The Dame Vera Lynn Trust are extremely appreciative for any offers of support, if you would like any further information then please contact the school via email on :

suffolksfp@dvltrust.org.uk or tel: 01473 652880.

Needham Market set to celebrate the Paralympic Torch Relay Needham Market is one of 34 communities across the country that will host Flame Celebrations as part of the London 2012 Paralympic Torch Relay.

Four Flames will be lit as part of a new concept for the Paralympic Torch Relay, one each in London, Greater Belfast, Edinburgh and Cardiff. The four Flames will be united at the Paralympic Flame Lighting Ceremony at Stoke Mandeville, the spiritual home of the Paralympic Movement, to create the London 2012 Paralympic Flame. This Flame will then be carried on a 24 hour overnight Relay to London and the Opening Ceremony of the Paralympic Games.

Amy Nettledon, a local artist, will act as Suffolk’s Flame Ambassador and will collect a piece of the Flame from the London Flame Lighting Ceremony. She will then escort it back to a special Flame Celebration event in the Suffolk market town on Friday 24th August.

Director of Paralympic Integration at London 2012, Chris Holmes, said: “We are thrilled to announce that Needham Market will play host to a Flame Celebration. This new concept will involve people from all around the UK in the spirit of the Paralympic Movement in unique ways relevant to the area. I know that people from Needham Market will get involved in this celebration and help ignite passion for the Paralympics across the UK.”

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To contribute to future issues please email editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk or call 01473 788546

Can you help a child Like Ben, Mark or Kerry?

There are over 800 children in care in Suffolk, most of those are living in foster care. Children will come into care for a range of reasons.

Some will need foster care until they can hopefully be returned home, or until they can move to extended or an adoptive family. Others need a foster family for the remainder of their childhood.

Ben was placed with his carers when he was a newborn baby. Ben was a very demanding baby as he was withdrawing from the drugs his mum took during pregnancy. He was very sensitive to light and touch and would cry much more than most babies of his age, often for much of the day.

Whilst they loved him very much, Ben’s parents were not able to put his needs before their current chaotic lifestyle and drug misuse, and he was unable to return to their care.

Ben is now happily settled with his new adoptive parents.

Mark was placed in foster care aged 6 because of concerns about neglect and domestic violence.

Mark was very behind with his learning and struggled to concentrate at school. Having new clean clothes that fitted made a big difference to his confidence. With lots of support from his carers Mark has slowly been able to make some progress at school both with his learning and making friends.

Initially Mark could be quite challenging and refuse to accept boundaries. His carers are working on one of his behaviours at a time - the first one was to not to hit the carer if he couldn’t do what he wanted! At first this meant that Mark became more aggressive and shouted and hit out more, but his tantrums are slowly becoming less frequent and he will now calm down much more easily.

Mark says he is going to stay living with his carers until he is 30!

Kerry came into care when she was 14 after she reported she had been sexually abused by her step-father.

When she first came into care Kerry was making herself vulnerable by having relationships with older men. She had not been attending school.

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work to improve your child’s skills, develop their confidence and inspire a passion for learning.

Contact your local Instructor for a Free Assessment: Ipswich Central Study Centre Sangeeta Kumar 01473 614 665

Improve your child’s study skills

Ipswich South Study Centre Sally Leedham 01206 863 242

kumon.co.uk

Kerry needed lots of time and re-assurance from her carers, to talk through what had happened to her, and to help her understand and develop more positive relationships with men.

At 16 Kerry is now planning her future and is looking forward to having her own flat. She went back to school to take her exams and has applied to go to college.

If you think you could help a child like Ben, Mark or Kerry contact us on 0800 328 2148 or visit www.suffolkfostering.com

If you are involved with a charity, business or service provider and would like to feature within the Our Community pages please email editor@familiessuffok.co.uk www.familiessuffolk.co.uk

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parents place Help…... beach body required by Lisa Giddings If, like me, the idea of wearing your bikini, tankini or swimsuit on your holiday this year fills you with dread then please read on, you may find my recent experience interesting.

I have always been a keen advocate of beauty comes from within and with a healthy diet and regular exercise you can achieve a body that you are reasonably comfortable in. However since having Evie and 5 months ago baby Jack, and with a holiday in Cornwall approaching, I am far from being comfortable with the thought of getting into my wetsuit to brave swimming in the Cornish waters.

So when the team at Biothecare Estetika, aesthetic centre Ipswich offered me the opportunity to experience a non-invasive body treatment, in this case Radio Frequency, curiosity got the better of me and I thought I’d go and find out for myself (and for anybody else who may have wondered what these type of treatments are like) if this could be the little bit of help I need.

Radio Frequency as Kate, the manager, explained is the application of radio frequency waves which produce an increase in temperature under the skin stimulating collagen production.

This treatment can be used to smooth wrinkles and expression lines on the face, reduce double chins or bags under the eyes, also to assist in body slimming, reducing cellulite and can help tone the body after pregnancy and birth. Now at this point, after listening to Kate I thought that I had just discovered a miracle cure, but Kate stressed that this type of treatment achieves the best results when supported by a healthy lifestyle – no hanging up the running trainers for me then!

After completing the necessary paperwork I was taken into one of the lovely treatment rooms and was relieved to find it did not contain any scary looking equipment, for some reason I thought it might considering it was about to tackle cellulite issues. Kate then showed me the ‘probe’ to be massaged on my ‘problematic’ area. Now although the word probe sounds unpleasant, it was a piece of equipment that resembled a pestle which was massaged over the cellulite. I was concerned that the increase in temperature generated under the skin maybe uncomfortable but it felt no hotter than experiencing a hot stone massage or waxing, and I actually enjoyed the 30 minute treatment.

The best part was that not only did I enjoy the experience, but when Kate had treated one leg and before beginning the other I could feel the difference of the skin texture between the

treated and non-treated leg. On completion of the session I felt great and my ‘problematic’ areas were not quite so much a problem. Kate did explain that Radio Frequency does work best if you begin with a treatment once or twice a week for 4 weeks, before then working on a preventative /maintenance plan however you can see results, as I did, from the very first session.

I personally enjoyed the experience and it was, for me, very effective. It is very good to know that there are treatments that can help my own efforts if I need some extra help for a holiday swimwear or party dress panic, or my training does not help the overly stretched stomach muscles due to little Jack Giddings.

Biothecare Estetika can be found at 29 St. Nicholas Street, Ipswich.

01473 215216 www.biothecareestetika.com/Ipswich

Kate (right) manager and fellow technician Stephanie

T

aking children with you on your travels?

by Mary Kedward - The Travel Clinic Ltd, Ipswich

Your children are even more likely than you to have an illness or an accident while traveling.

Like you, they will need to have vaccines against diseases and medicines to prevent malaria. In addition, you (the caregiver) will need to learn how to: 1. keep your child from getting diarrhoea, and how to treat it if they do 2. protect your child against insects, especially mosquitoes (which cause malaria) 3. How to avoid accidents which are the major risk to children.

Like you, your children will need to be updated on their regular childhood vaccines that prevent many diseases.

Common problems when travelling: Malaria in children, especially those who have never been in an area of malaria can make them very sick. In fact, with the bad type of malaria, children, or anyone who has never had malaria before, can die in less than 12 hours from their first symptoms. Speak to your doctor/nurse about malaria, how to protect your child from mosquito bites and what medication they should take to prevent malaria.

Injuries and accidents are the most likely bad things to happen to your child. Be very watchful around traffic & roadways, use car seats and seatbelts whenever possible. You likely will need to bring your car seat with you. The safest place in the car for a child is the middle of the back seat. Watch your children closely around water because drowning is very common.

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Sunburn: Bathe the affected area in cool water or apply a cold compress. Apply camomile lotion and administer an analgesic such as Paracetamol. In the case of blistering keep it dry and covered since they may easily become infected. If sunburn is extensive children may be in danger of losing a lot of body heat and become hypothermic, in this case medical attention should be sought.

Prickly heat: This is particularly a problem in humid countries, as children do not sweat and is characterised by an itchy sensation under the skin accompanied by a fine red rash and small blisters. To prevent it keep in the shade as much as possible and wear cotton. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid the use of deodorants. Regular showering and bathing and the use of talcum powder can help prevent this problem.

Cuts, sores and insect bites: these should all be treated with a sterilising solution such as iodine and should be kept clean and dry to avoid infection, perhaps through the use of a plaster of dressing.

Animal bites: Children should be encouraged to mistrust dogs and other mammals as they may carry rabies and other diseases. Any bite, scratch or lick from a warmblooded mammal should be thoroughly cleaned. If there is any possibility the animal could have been infected with rabies, medical attention should be sought immediately.

Diarrhoea: Children become dehydrated more quickly than adults. Lost sugar and salts may be replaced through special powders mixed with boiled water.

These should be purchased in England as they may not be available overseas.

Nathnac.org - You should check with your International Travel Health Advisor which vaccinations are necessary and whether anti-malarial drugs are needed. It is essential to book an appointment at least four weeks before you travel as some vaccination courses are administered over several weeks.

Your children are even more likely than you to have an illness or an accident while traveling.

Vomiting and/or Diarrhoea: Use Oral Rehydration Therapy/Solution. You can buy this at most pharmacies overseas. Mix as directed with clean water. Give small amounts like one teaspoon every 3 to 5 minutes. Increase amount as tolerated. If the child vomits start over with small amounts. Change to regular diet as soon as tolerated.

Severe illness or unable to give adequate fluids: Seek good local healthcare. If you have travel insurance they may assist you in finding good care. If your child needs an injection or IV therapy make sure the needle is sterile (Take a new needlepack and first aid kit) WASH HANDS OR USE HAND SANITISING LOTIONS AS FREQUENTLY AS POSSIBLE.

The Travel Clinic Ltd, Ipswich 01473 225176 www.travelclinic.ltd.uk

To contribute to future issues please email editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk or call 01473 788546

parent to parent interview

K

atie Mackenzie and Faye Burley are both BabyCalm and ToddlerCalm teachers; helping parents to understand and calm their baby or toddler through workshops and classes run in Ipswich and surrounding areas.

Katie is married to Ross and has a son, Zachary, aged 2, and have lived in Ipswich for 5 1/2 years. Faye is married to Jody and has a daughter, Olivia. They have only been back in the UK living in Kesgrave since last summer. Faye and Jody are both primary teachers and have been enjoying working and travelling internationally in Asia for a number of years.

Why you like living where you do?

Katie: I live in the Rivers area of Ipswich which I love because it’s a 5 minute walk down to the waterfront, with its bars, restaurants and sailing boats. On a sunny day you could almost believe you are in the Med! We’re near Landseer Park, with its wide open spaces, views down across the river and wooded areas with bluebells in spring. It’s also just a short walk to the beautiful Holywells Park, which is brilliant for Zac as he loves to go and look at the ducks and practice his climbing skills in the playground. Now its summer the fountains are back on too, which are always packed with children.

Just down the road is my favourite pub, the Brewery Tap, which does amazing food and local beer and cider. On Cliff Lane there is a little row of shops with the vets, (very useful with our accident prone cat!) a bakery, corner shop, Chinese takeaway, Post Office and a local butcher, George Debman. I feel very lucky to have all this on our doorstep and yet still be within walking distance of the town centre, and a 15 minute drive to the beach at Felixstowe, or Jimmy’s Farm. Since having a child and being home a lot more I really appreciate all the facilities we have locally and how much there is to do with a little one around here.

Faye: Where we are is fantastic for families. I can get to pretty much anywhere I need to without going on a road! The cycle ways are excellent and we love being out on our bikes. We are also exceptionally lucky to have wonderful neighbours.

Being new to Suffolk, they really have made all the difference to our life-I love the community feel in our street. We are also close to my husband’s family and for us it’s fantastic. We want our children to know their family and Olivia gets to see hers a lot.

Favourite park and why?

Katie: It has to be Holywells as it is a 5 minute walk from our house. There are some really lovely walks to be had through the trees as well as ponds and streams with ducks, geese and other birds. The play area is probably the best in Ipswich, with water fountains to play in the summer, a massive climbing frame, a pirate ship, toddler climbing frame, swings and more. My son loves it and we go all the time.

Faye: We have lots of little parks where we live which is great for Livvy. We do love Christchurch Park, especially the rolling slopes for running down until you fall over!

Favourite children’s club/class?

Katie: I love Baby Bounce and Tot Rock at the libraries. These are free sessions, run by library staff, which you can turn up to with your baby or toddler for a session of singing and movement. We go to Gainsborough Library, which has a lovely big room, and a café. It’s a good trip out as you can borrow some books at the same time and has really fostered Zac’s love of books as well as teaching him loads of songs.

Faye: Jo jingles as organised by Mini at Birch Farm. We also took Olivia to the swimming classes there for a term to get her started and she is extremely confident now! We have enjoyed the free classes offered by our local Children’s Centre in

Kesgrave- always a good starting point for me. We attend Martlesham Heath’s Baby and Toddler Playgroup and we love it there.

Favourite day out and why?

Katie: At the moment it has to be the beach. We go down to Felixstowe a lot. All we need for hours of fun is a bucket and spade! If the weather’s not so good though we often go to the Play Barn at Birch Farm, Hintlesham. Zac is just the right age for it now as he can go off and play while I sit and have a coffee and a chat with friends.

Favourite child friendly restaurant and why?

Faye: The Farmhouse on Grange Farm is a good one for us. It’s just round the corner and they don’t mind a very active toddler running around or dancing to their guests! The menu is vast so there is always something that takes your fancy. They have a pond with ducks and a park just over the road.

Favourite alternative health clinic/pre or post natal class and why?

Katie: I really enjoyed the pregnancy yoga I did at Lazy Daisy with Shelley. The movements were really relaxing and kept me in shape (sort of!) and the relaxation sessions at the end were wonderful. I nodded off most weeks! Shelley definitely helped me understand the birth process and what my body would be doing during labour.

Faye: I attend local yoga and pilates classes. Manon teaches yoga and Jasmin teaches Pilates, both are excellent teachers and we’re lucky to have them in Kesgrave.

No parent should be without?

Faye: friends and family. We found we needed very little when we had Olivia but we missed having the love and support of friends and family. Olivia was born in Taiwan.

Katie: A sling. I can’t recommend them highly enough! I used a stretchy wrap with my son, and it was an absolute life saver. Like many babies, mine refused to be put down and just wanted to be cuddled all the time. Using a sling meant he was exactly where he wanted to be and I had my arms free to do things. A good sling is also much easier on your back than carrying a baby in your arms.

Parenting pet hates?

Faye & Katie: Judgemental parents. We are all doing the best job we know how too. We should be there to support/share our knowledge in an impartial way so that parents can choose what they feel is best for them and their family.

If you would like to visit any of the places mentioned please find the contact details listed below: The Brewery Tap – Cliff Road, Ipswich, Suffolk , IP3 0AT. 01473 225501 www.thebrewerytap.org Gainsborough Community Library – Clapgate Lane, Ipswich, Suffolk. IP3 0RL - www.suffolkreads.onesuffolk.net/libraries-and-mobiles/gainsboroughcommunity-library/ Birch Farm Complex - Silver Hill, Hintlesham, Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3NJ. 01473 652152 - www.birchfarm.co.uk The Farmhouse – Grange Farm,Kesgrave, Ipswich,Suffolk, IP5 2GA. 01473 611600 www2.hungryhorse.co.uk/index.php/pub-finder/details/farmhouse-kesgrave Lazy daisy – 07761345897 - shelley@lazydaisybirthing.co.uk www.lazydaisybirthing.co.uk Nature & Nurture - Rosie, Sling Consultant and Bra Lady www.natureandnurture.co.uk If you would like to speak to Katie or Faye regarding Baby Calm classes in your area you can contact Katie on 07508139580 or Faye on 07565592728 or visit www.facebook.com/babycalmsuffolk

www.familiessuffolk.co.uk

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family fun

Take the family challenge!

by Joanna Moorhead

Summer 2012 is going to be all about active fun and getting out and about in the UK (which is, for all of us cash-strapped families, a lot cheaper than going abroad).

So what are the best activities to enjoy en famille?

Joanna Moorhead investigates...

1. Swing through g the forest

A tree-top adventure makes for an adrenalin-charged day out with the children – and while e you’re up there, you get some brilliant views s as well! Personally, I’ve never been so happy to be back on solid ground as when I got down from the terrifying heights of the e forest course I tried outt with my kids...but on the upside, at least I © Go Ape! Tree Top Adventure did make it down, and relying on them to help me through the most white-knuckle parts of the course went a long way in terms of family bonding!

Until recently Go Ape! has been restricted to over-10s, but there’s now a new course at two of the company’s 27 centres nationwide – Thetford near Brandon, and Moors Valley Country Park near Bournemouth. It’s designed for children as young as four, although they also need to be at least a metre tall, and it’s an hour-long course which, like the over-10s Go Ape! courses, takes children (and their parents) through a network of looping obstacles five metres above the forest floor, including the spider’s web, log balance and jungle crossing, before finishing on a tree-to-tree zipwire.

Prices: Go Ape! costs £30 for adults, £20 for 10-17 year olds. The new junior course costs £15 for any age.

For more information see www.goape.co.uk

2. Climb the rocks

Rock-climbing is apparently one of the fastest-growing sports in Britain, and giving it a try makes for a great family day out. Like all the best family challenges it’s about supporting one another, learning new skills, encouraging people when they need it, and celebrating new-found abilities and courage! Family climbing courses abound – google to find one in your area – and most are for complete beginners and take children from about eight (although some specialise in working with younger children). Look for a course where you have a dedicated instructor: you’ll learn (amongst other things) how to belay (ie hold the ropes safely) and how to make the most of the rock’s features for your hands and feet. If you’re looking for a family challenge in a rainy period, look up climbing walls in your area and see if you can hire an instructor for a family session there instead.

3. Ride the tracks

For a family with people who can’t get around very easily – elderly grandparents, for example, or other people with special needs – you can’t beat a trip on a steam railway. Most of these railways, preserved from Victorian times, are in areas of breathtaking natural

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beauty – the glorious Sussex countryside whisks by if you take the Bluebell Railway, for example, or if you’re in Yorkshire try the Embsay, which still runs from its original 1888 station near Skipton in Yorkshire through some of the most glorious Dales countryside.

Prices from around £5 per adult, £2 per child.

For more information on the lines mentioned here see www.bluebellrailway.co.uk and www.embsayboltonabbeyrailway.org.uk Or see www. steamrailwaylines.co.uk for the lines across the UK

4. Take an underground walk

There’s something strangely thrilling about taking a walk through a cave, into the very inside of the earth – the atmosphere is quite different from anywhere else you’ll ever go,and the memories of what you see and experience stay with you for a long time. And, of course, every child needs to understand the difference between those stalactites and stalagmites.

Some of the best caves in the country are at Cheddar Gorge in Somerset, the White Scar Cave at Ingleton in Yorkshire, where you can take an 80-minute tour through some of the country’s most awesome subterranean rock formations, and Wookey Hole near Wells in Somerset, home (apparently) to the Witch of Wookey. Not suitable, though, for a buggy or a wheelchair.

Tickets from around £15 for adults, £10 for children, depending on how extensive the caves are and how much else there is to do at the attraction.

For more information on the caves mentioned here, see www.whitescarcave.co.uk; www.cheddargorge.co.uk; www.wookey.co.uk

5. Fly a kite

Every family has a kite or three, usually given as birthday or Christmas presents and with fiendishly y difficult-looking instructions. s.

We sometimes thought about taking our children to fly them, but something always held us back – usually doubts about how to do it, and whether the area we were planning to © Mark Parker - www.Kitevibe.com kite-fly in was actually big enough. But a lesson from Kevin Baker of Southern Breeze, a kite-flying operation based at Baiter Park on Poole harbour, set us straight: Kevin showed us how to make sure we were in a suitable kite-flying area (you need to use your thumb to check the height of the surrounding obstacles, to make sure they’re far enough away), and you need to give the kite a forceful yank to get it into the sky. More adventurous families can progress to kite-buggying and kite-boarding, in which you use the power of an airborne kite to propel yourself along on a vehicle on the ground.

Kite-flying tuition costs around £50 for a half-day’s family tuition. For more information on Kevin Baker see www.sbkites.co.uk. For information on kite flying lessons in your area see www.kitevibe.com

6. Go mountain biking

Like a lot of city families we have a houseful of bikes, but we tend not to do anything more adventurous than go to friends’ houses or the local shops on them. Mountain biking is a whole different experience from a short trip down the road: we went to try it on the South Downs, where the gentle (and not-so-gentle) inclines make for great off-road cycling adventures.

You don’t, of course, have to use an instructor to get to grips of mountain biking: but if you’re taking kids with you, and you want to get a real thrill out of your day (plus you won’t need to get the bikes there, because the instructor will provide them) then I recommend a course. Our teacher, Richard, gave us lots of confidence to try out manoeuvres we’d never otherwise have tried (cycling over logs, for example – and yes, it’s a lot scarier than it looks when you’re in the saddle!). He also revealed the number one rule of mountain biking, which is never look down. You have to look straight ahead, focusing on the furthest point of the trail, because if you look down you’ll change your centre of

© Derek Hayward

To contribute to future issues please email editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk or call 01473 788546

gravity and fall off. We loved our day learning to mountain bike: the children (who need to be over about seven) were a lot better than the parents, d but even the parents managed things they’d never have believed they could do!

Expect to pay around £40 per person for mountain biking tuition, including bike hire.

For more information on the Surrey Hills tours see www. allbikedup.com; for details of courses near you see www.abc-of-mountainbiking.com

7. Try potholing

Potholing has a scary reputation, and it’s not for the fainthearted (or those with claustrophobia).

But if you’re a brave clan and up for an adventure, it can be an extraordinary experience to journey into the underworld dressed in what resembles a miner’s gear, and to edge your way through spaces you didn’t believe you’d ever fit through.

Coming across underground chambers is magical – as is seeing the daylight come back into view when you finally make your way out!

Potholing with an instructor costs around £40 per person for a session.

For information on where to find an instructor, see www.caving.uk.com

8. Find a geocache

Geocaching is one of those things that sounds totally perplexing to anyone who’s never tried it, but is a huge hit with almost everyone who has. The idea is to find some ‘treasure’ – treasure that’s hidden in a box, and is findable using a hand-held satnav system (any will do). The treasure in question usually consists of a plastic box like a lunchbox with a whole host of miscellaneous bits and pieces in it – things like small toys, CDs, pens, anything. The rule is that when you find your treasure you’re allowed to take one thing out, and you must put one thing in – and sign the log book of course. The treasure is hidden everywhere and anywhere – in cities, in the countryside, even underwater.

For more information see www.geocaching.com

9. Go canoeing

10. Get into metal detection

There’s something almost absurdly exciting about setting off with a metal detector and seeing what you’re going to turn up – even though it will, in all probability, be complete rubbish. Because there’s always that chance of finding treasure – or even, and this is almost as good, remnants of the way other people lived, in another age.

To use a metal detector effectively, you need to use a sweeping motion – and it’s best to go somewhere with plenty of space, perhaps where other interesting finds have been made.

Children are just thrilled with the idea of a machine that goes bleep the whole time, and which might lead to some discovery. Another big plus is that this is an adventure anyone can enjoy – great for families with small kids in buggies or anyone in a wheelchair (though you need to chose your terrain wisely).

Join Suffolk County Council’s Fostering Service, the leading fostering provider for all Suffolk looked after children.

In return you will receive: • An opportunity to make a positive difference to a child’s life.

• Learning & development opportunities • A financial allowance (an enhanced payment scheme is available for more experienced carers).

• 24 Hour support.

Follow us on Facebook

Contact us now Everyone who works for, or with Suffolk’s Fostering Service is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We need and welcome foster carers of all backgrounds and ethnicities who will share this commitment.

0800 328 2148 www.suffolkfostering.com

www.ipswich.gov.uk/sport

ALL SPORT, ALL

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JUNIOR SUMMER SAVER

Canoeing centres up and down the country offer equipment hire and instruction for families who want to dip their toes in the water. Your instructor will help you learn how to paddle, how to turn and how to negotiate rapids – and he or she will also ensure that you’re canoeing in a suitable place, and in suitable weather, for the age of your children (which is crucial, because accidents can happen quickly in canoes).

What’s especially lovely about canoeing is that, as well as the skills to learn, you can also have a day out that’s close to wildlife – look out for fish, water birds and dragonflies. If you’re lucky you might even spot an otter or a water vole.

Hiring a canoe and instructor costs around £150 for half a day. For more information see www.canoe-england.org.uk/go-canoeing/

Have you got room in your life for one more?

For more information see www.ncmd.co.uk

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Families Suffolk’s free Summer fun for kids

Free Summer Fun For Kids

Inspired by the National Trust’s ‘50 Thing To Do Before You Are 11 ¾’ we at Families magazine have taken up the challenge to find free things for you to do with your children this summer! So whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor activities we prove you really can get something for nothing.

Walks & Bike Rides - Enjoy the great outdoors either locally or further afield...

Take a Walk - The Ramblers is leading plenty of short, family friendly walks this summer that everyone is welcome to join for free.

Visit www.ramblers.org.uk/walksfinder or for information on getting children and families walking visit the Ramblers short walks website www.getwalking.org.

National Trails are long distance routes for walking, cycling and horse riding through the finest landscapes in England and Wales. Altogether, in England and Wales, there are about 2,500 miles (4,000km) of National Trail. They have all been created by linking existing local footpaths, bridleways and minor roads and by developing new ones where there were gaps. They pass through some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in Britain. There is something to suit everyone, from short walks to a 630 mile adventure. www.nationaltrail.co.uk Idea’s for fun family walking - Make it an adventure: Don’t suggest ‘going for a walk’, make it an outing or adventure to somewhere like a park, a playground, woods or a pond; treat them to a picnic or take something to eat and drink along the way.

Let them bring a friend, team up with another family, or join a led walk that’s suitable for families.

Get creative: You could plan fun activities and games like a treasure hunt or I-Spy; look out for animals, birds, trees, people, buildings, colours, or collect tree seeds, leaves, shells, and small stones. Take photographs along the way they can put in a walker’s diary; get them involved in planning and running the walks, perhaps plotting the route on a map and map reading during the walk.

Ride a bike - Go Sky Rides are free, community bike rides, giving you a chance to get out and explore your local area. They’re led by a British Cycling-trained ride leader so you’re in safe hands, even if you’re a bit rusty.

There are rides at four different levels from traffic-free rides in parks and on bike paths, to more challenging rides taking your cycling a bit further. They’re all free to join, and it’s easy to register but places on Sky Ride Local rides are limited so register now at www.goskyride.com Sustrans offer a free information pack to discover great places to cycle near you as well as a cycling with children booklet. They also have an online mapping program to find out where to walk and cycle from your home. Just tap in your postcode and it shows you local walking and cycling routes as well as bus stops, train stations and connections to local destinations such as shops, schools and sports facilities. www.sustrans.org.uk Woodbridge Family Cycling Festival on 15th July – presented by Cycle Suffolk the festival will include displays, bike maintenance and information and is suitable for the whole family. www.cyclesuffolk.org

Libraries For when the weather is wet and/or nasty, here’s what you can do indoors for free at a local library.

Story Lab the annual Summer Reading Challenge for children of all ages, starts in Suffolk libraries on Saturday 21st July and it’s hoped that many children will take part again this year. Story lab is a Cultural Olympiad activity.

In 2011, 4442 Suffolk children completed the Circus Stars Challenge. In this Olympic year, the target is set higher, with the aim to increase the reading levels of thousands of children, leaving a true legacy of the Cultural Olympiad.

How does it work? Over the summer, children read 6 library books of their choice, collecting rewards and incentives along the way. As well as bookmarks, stickers, fortune-tellers and wrist bands, some libraries will also be giving away very horrible limited edition Munglers Top Trumps cards to children aged 8 and above. Every child who completes the challenge will be presented with a medal and certificate at a ceremony in their local library in September. Children can take part on-line too at www. suffolkreads.onesuffolk.net/ as long as they register in a library first.

When can they join? Story Lab starts on Saturday 21st July, but keen readers can register for the Challenge, and take home their first books to read, on Sunday 15th July.

Your local library has other free activities for all information about whats on in your local library visit www.suffolkreads.onesuffolk.net/libraries-and-mobiles/

At Home Whether the sun is shining brightly or it is bucketing down with rain, if you want to enjoy your own home for a period of time over the summer holidays here are some ideas for free and fun things to do at home!

Using a bucket of water and big (wallpaper) brushes get little ones to paint the garden fence, wall or patio. Simple and mess-free but great fun. Or get the paints outside and try hand/foot/finger painting on the largest paper you can find – try the back of unused old wallpaper. Then get out the sprinkler hose to clean everyone off!

Set up a treasure hunt with clues around the house.

Water fight in the back garden with two teams – one guarding a base, and the others trying to get to the base and steal (their mission plans) Games day – challenge the kids to get through at least 10 board games, ping pong sessions etc in the day Enter competitions, most are free to enter its fun trying and you never know you may even win something. Get started on this idea right away by entering the Fabric 8 competiton (see left) Have a movie afternoon with popcorn and a good dvd Camp out, pitch a tent in the garden, fill the paddling pool and sand pit, light the BBQ and make some fruity cocktails. Then pretend you’re in an exotic location and laugh at all the poor travellers stuck in airports or on motorways.

A An outdoor blackboard will encourage all sorts of games and creativity. All you need is a piece of board, ideally marine plywood, cut to the size you require, and some blackboard paint, available from DIY or hardware stores. Once painted, the board can be fixed to your house wall, fence or shed. Keep chalks in a waterproof box, ready for drawing, writing, treasure hunt maps, instructions and scoring.

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To contribute to future issues please email editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk or call 01473 788546

in association with Clubs and Classes Many local clubs and classes offer free trials over the summer break, here are a few. Why not try them all and book an ongoing class for September?

Kumon Ipswich Central and Ipswich South are offering a free assessment. Parents who are interested in starting Kumon can take their children to their closest Kumon centre over the summer and the assessment will be free of charge. Once children are enrolled in a Kumon centre in July or August there is a Family Free Trial. If any enrolled children have siblings, they can partake in a 2 week free trial in July or August.

Kumon Ipswich Central, The Key, 15 St Margaret’s Plain, Ipswich, 01473 614665. Ipswich South Murrayside Leap Centre, Nacton Rd, Ipswich 01206 863242 www.kumon.co.uk Jo Jingles at Birch Farm Hintlesham - Jo Jingles is the UK’s largest provider of fun and educational music and movement classes with an educational slant for children of 3 months up to 5 years. Sessions are age specific and all are great fun with percussion instruments to play, both old and new songs to learn and even the Jo Jingles doll to meet.

For a free trial class contact Mini on 01473 652152 www.birchfarm.co.uk IBC – Crown Pools - Free swimming for children under eight in the Leisure and Teaching Pools at Crown Pools during the school summer holidays. Admissions policy - free swimming offer - Children under the age of eight must be supervised by a responsible adult over the age of 16. One adult can only supervise two under eights at any one time.

The adult must accompany the child/children in the water at all times 01473 433655 www.ipswich.gov.uk/sport Suffolk Summer Of Sport – have a huge range of activities, courses and taster sessions to try during the summer holidays some of which are free - everything from archery to athletics, swimming to softball and football to fencing. Many different activities for all abilities. www.suffolksummerofsport.co.uk Summer Fun with Live Well Suffolk - All courses are FREE! If you are concerned about your weight, want to increase your activity or just makes changes around your diet these courses are for you! Yoga, Zumba, Health Walks, Cook + Eat and Alive N Kicking child weight management courses are also available.

For all class details visit www.livewellsuffolk.co.uk or call 01473 22 92 92 iSwim are offering a free pre-school trial swimming lesson. Small and friendly classes.

Lots of praise encourages children to become confident , relaxed and happy in the water!

Whilst teaching essential skills we strongly emphasize”having fun” as we believe enjoyment is the key to swimming. We recognize everyone learns at their own pace and our lessons are an excellent way to learn to swim and help develop your child’s swimming abilities in a safe environment. iSwim - ASA Swim School Member - iswim@live.co.uk www.iswim.biz 01473 277085

Local Parks, Gardens and Wildlife Reserves

creative fun at Tower Ramparts

Tower Ramparts - EVENTS Summer holiday creative activities 21st July - Get creative this holiday 25th July - Remote control car racing on a giant track – great fun for all the family 28th July - FREE Face painting August dates - Please visit our website for event details and for more information about all the FREE July and August entertainment for children and adults - www.towerramparts.com All activities are FREE of charge, and available on a first come first served basis, unless otherwise stated. Children under 16yrs must be supervised during all activities.

Tower Ramparts reserve the right to change event dates without notice, please check our website prior to travel

Locally we are very lucky to have a many parks in which to wander and explore,plus we live in an area which has over 50 Wildlife Trust Reserves and Visitors centres. Visiting to all is FREE! - For a full listing of all Suffolk Wildlife Trust reserves and centres visit: www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/reserves-and-visitor-centres As mentioned we have many parks to choose from, you need to check out your local council website for Parks and Open spaces for full listings, however to get you started exploring our parks I have quoted the favourite parks of the mums who have featured within the Parent to Parent interviews: ‘Our local park in Chelmondiston is great to be able to walk to, but my 3 year old loves Bourne Park (he calls it the zip wire park). Good range of facilities there and in the summer the paddling pool is open.’ – Nicky Cordle ‘We love popping to the Chelmondiston Village Playing Field for a play, lovely play equipment, and although not as extensive as some of the bigger town parks, whilst the kids are small it suits them just fine!.’ – Lucy Golding ‘Kingston Park in Woodbridge, Adam always bumps into a friend when we go, there’s plenty of children’s equipment plus a football pitch to keep the children entertained and nearby refreshments for everyone at the Pavilion or Tea Hut.’ – Kirstie Boxall ‘Chantry park is our regular favourite, especially since it’s within cycling distance from our home. Since it’s been renovated, the play area is great fun for the kids, plus the park itself offers lovely scenic walks, tree climbing, duck feeding and squirrel spotting too!’ – Joy Day. ‘All the parks in Hadleigh we enjoy going too so I don’t really have a favourite. I guess the most visited is the park by the swimming pool. Just because everyone from school goes there.’ – Sue McFadyen.

‘It has to be Holywells as it is a 5 minute walk from our house. There are some really lovely walks to be had through the trees as well as ponds and streams with ducks, geese and other birds. The play area is probably the best in Ipswich, with water fountains to play in the summer, a massive climbing frame, a pirate ship, toddler climbing frame, swings and more. My son loves it and we go all the time.’ – Katie Mckenzie.

‘We have lots of little parks where we live which is great for Livvy. We do love Christchurch Park, especially the rolling slopes for running down until you fall over!’ – Faye Burley.

As you progress through the summer of free stuff above, or when it is over, remember to visit the National Trust’s interactive website for kids with a list of 50 things kids should do before they are 11 ¾. Kids can log in and tick off the things as they complete them.

creative fun at Tower Ramparts

Loads of holiday fun towerramparts.com

Just visit our website or like us on facebook and keep up to date with all the latest competitions, events and FREE activities for children happening in Tower Ramparts Shopping Centre this summer.

www.50things.org.uk

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...and finally...

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

www.familiessuffolk.co.uk