FamiliesNewcastleGatesheadSeptOct18

Newcastle Gateshead

In this issue Making the best of Open Days The BeneďŹ ts of Boredom Choosing the right Club or Class for your child

Issue 02 Sept/Oct 2018

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Charity No: 1056812 Tel: 0300 330 1095 ext.300 See www.sevenstories.org.uk for more information

@7stories @7stories @7stories

Welcome

in this

issue P4 news P8 Education Matters

P6 Family Matters

P11 Club & classes

So, who blinked and the summer holidays were over – yes even though each day probably felt like it would never end. We are in full on back to school mode – back into the routines, the early mornings, new classes and clubs to try now we are another school year older and dealing with new teachers, new homework and new challenges.

Good Luck to all those ‘Babies’ starting nursery and school – I know they look too small! Where did the time go? But they will be fine – you may not be - but plan a little something nice for after those first few days of drop off.

No matter how old your children are its good to keep in the know about what’s available locally to try out new things, (see the special trial offers on page 5 & Page 11) get signed up at age appropriate times for future classes like beavers and rainbows and even start thinking about school and nursery for your babies.

Are you aware of the new 30 hour provision at some nursery’s?

Check out your local nursery/school for their open days as September is often busy in the school calendar.

Well I am excited for the Autumn Season with the crisp air, darker nights, candles and snuggles. Get organised for Halloween with your local events. My favourite night of the year approaches with Bonfire Night nearly upon us, the smell of smoke, fireworks and hot chocolate - and then we hit the countdown to You Know What! (Never too early to start planning the holiday season – check out our early bird offer on page 8) I would love to see what you get up to so feel free to tag us on social media and say Hi! Enjoy the Autumn Term and all the newness it may bring.

Much Love Cáit Note: Gateshead 1/ 2 term dates differ from others.

P13 What’s on & Where @FamNEMag facebook.com/FamNEMag

Newcastle Gateshead Next issue:

Nov/Dec 2018 (Christmas and New Year Special)

Circulation:

16,000 copies of Families NewcastleGateshead are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected shops and other points throughout Newcastle and Gateshead. If you would like free copies for your organisation, please let us know.

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Families NewcastleGateshead, Tel: 0191 6591283 / 07377 420 726 www.familiesonline.co.uk

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Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Newcastle are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Newcastle. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Newcastle, its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any Please recycle consequence thereof.

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News Two Thirds of Children Not Safe in Cars

Parents are being advised to check their children’s car seats after a new study found that two in three children aren’t safe while travelling.

The What Car? study, created in conjunction with specialist organisation Child Seat Safety found that 59% of children are sitting in car seats that have been incorrectly fitted or are inappropriate for them.

The survey on 3,000 seats, with and without children in them, held at random seatchecking events throughout the UK, revealed that 36%

were incorrectly fitted in the car, while 33% of those that had children in them weren’t suitable.

Many of the mistakes were said to be “simple and easy to avoid,” and included tightening seat belts, incorrect head restraints or harnesses being in the wrong position.

In the UK, children are legally required to remain in a car seat until they are either 12 years old or at least 135 cm tall, whichever comes first.

More info at www.gov.uk/ child-car-seats-the-rules

Education Linked To Short-Sightedness

The longer a person spends in education the more shortsighted they are likely to become, according to a recent large scale study.

Researchers based at the University of Bristol and Cardiff University conducted a study of 68,000 participants’ education, sight and genetic information.

The study proves that education is a “causal risk factor” for short sight (myopia).

Cardiff University’s Prof Jez Guggenheim, from the school of optometry and vision sciences,

said “Myopia develops mainly during school years and then tends to stabilise in adulthood.”

In some Asian countries like Singapore, South Korea and China, where there are intensive education pressures including homework at pre-school level, as many as 90% of people are short-sighted by the time they leave school at 18. Half of these children are already myopic by the end of primary school, compared to 10 per cent of British children.

However, it remains unclear how exactly education impacts a child’s eyesight.

One finding was that spending more time outdoors protects children against the development of myopia.

Another was, near-work activities such as reading contribute to myopia, although not to the same extent as lack of time outside.

More info at www.bmj.com

Alesha Dixon Encourages Children to Celebrate their Individuality in Lightning Girl: Superhero Squad

Alesha Dixon Encourages Children to Celebrate their Individuality in Lightning Girl: Superhero Squad.

We know her as a BGT judge, a Strictly judge, a TV personality and a pop star, but did you know Alesha Dixon has recently become a children’s author? We spoke to Alesha about the upcoming releaseof her new book – Lightning Girl: Superhero Squad, the sequel to her electrifying first book Lightning Girl.

4 Families NewcastleGateshead

What inspired you to become a children’s author?

I love new creative challenges!

I felt there was a gap in the market for an inspirational book which featured a young female superhero as a positive role model for boys and girls of different ethnicities. One of my driving forces was the desire for there to be a book out there to which my daughter could strongly relate.

What feedback have you had from your first book?

I couldn’t be happier with the feedback I’ve received! There’s nothing more rewarding than having a child say they love your book, and to have a parent say ‘Thank you for getting my child to enjoy reading’.

What is the general idea plotline of your second book?

Aurora doesn’t want to be a superhero. She just wants to be a normal girl who blends in.

Aurora Beam is now starting to find that this ‘saving-the-world lark’ isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.

World-famous overnight, she’s now living in the full glare of the media’s flash bulbs: everyone wants a piece of Aurora. When she attends a global gathering of superheroes, will she find support from new friends? Or will there be rivalries and sabotage to deal with? There’s twists and turns throughout, and the challenges get bigger as the story moves on.

There are a lot of messages interwoven within your book.

What do you hope are the core messages received by your readers?

Essentially, what I’m saying to young people is “you all have a superpower within you”. It’s okay to be different, it’s okay to stand out. You don’t have to follow everyone else or to be like

everyone else to be accepted. You all have a light, don’t so don’t let anything dim it.

We’re all unique and collectively we can all help one another in our own special way. It is important to me that all children learn that they can contribute, that they are counted and that they are important. I want them to realise that nobody should be discriminated against, nobody should feel excluded in any way, and we all should feel worthy. If children have a gift or talent, I’d love this book to give them permission to celebrate it.

Lightning Girl: Superhero Squad by Alesha Dixon will be published by Scholastic on 6th Sept 2018 Catch up on Aurora’s first adventure in Lightning Girl!

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News School Mental Health Referrals Rise By Over a Third

The number of referrals by schools seeking mental health treatment for pupils has shot up by more than a third in the last three years, the NSPCC has revealed.

The charity found that schools made 123,713 referrals seeking professional help for pupils from NHS Child and

Congratulations to our Issue 1 Competition winners:

Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) since 2014/15. Just over half (56%) came from primary schools.

Referrals have been steadily increasing every year, reaching 34,757 in 2017/18, the equivalent of 183 every school day.

The NSPCC is warning that increased demand for mental health support is placing the system under real pressure, jeopardising the well-being of thousands of children.

Nearly a third of referrals from schools to CAMHS over the last three years were declined treatment as they did not meet the criteria for support.

More info at www.nspcc.org.uk The World of David Walliams book – Alison Todd, Light Water Valley Family Ticket – Mrs Stephanie Douglas and White House Farm Family Ticket – Tracy Rawle. Congratulations We look forward to hearing all about your days out.

Thanks to all those who entered.

One Festival. Two Weekends.

5000 Free Events

For the first time ever England’s biggest festival of heritage and culture will take place across two weekends in 2018.

Heritage Open Days, 6th to 9th and 13th to 16th September is an annual celebration of England’s architecture and culture that allows visitors free access to historical landmarks that are either not usually open to the public, or would normally charge an entrance fee.

Co-ordinated nationally by the National Trust with support from the People’s Postcode Lottery it

brings together thousands of organisations and properties across England.

With a theme of ‘Extraordinary Women,’ this year’s festival will offer visitors more opportunities to discover the secret history of their towns, villages and countryside. There are hundreds of activities for kids, including dressing up, woodland walks, and railway rides. Best of all, every single event is FREE! For up to date information on events taking place near you visit, www.heritageopendays.org.uk

We are the ideal place for children aged 4-18 years with an interest in performing to learn Pop Singing, Street Dance, Musical Theatre & Drama! Call us to book your FREE ONE WEEK trial session!

For info or to book a FREE session, call us on 01914 065372 / 07772 577855 or emaiI newcastle@razzamataz.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Families NewcastleGateshead 5

Family Matters Celebrating Glorious Grandparents Day!

By Claire Smith

overwhelming 92% of parents Grandparents’ Day in the UK say that the involvement of their takes place on the first Sunday parents enriches their children’s in October and will, this year, lives while 84% look to their own be celebrated by families on parents for parenting inspiration.

Sunday 7th October. For those The role of a grandparent has of you less familiar with the neverbeenmorevitalorappreciated. history of this important day, Whether it’s advice on raising Grandparents’ Day was first children, giving their time for introduced in 1990 by the childcare or supporting busy charity now known as Age UK. parents, grandparents are an The first British celebrations ever-present shoulder for began in 2008 and the parents to lean on and, as our October date was selected to research reveals, it does not go honour the autumn years of a unrecognised! And it’s not just grandparent’s life. the children and busy parents On Grandparents’ Day this that benefit from the relationships. year, it’s worth considering how There is evidence to suggest you would cope without the that increased social support of your parents, or interaction for the elderly is parents-in-laws. Terribly? You are not alone. linked to a reduced Recent research risk of disease, 1 million from the Baby to improved mood, Toddler Show has working mobility and found that 55% of mothers in memory.” newparentswouldn’t the UK rely on Grandparents have be able to return a big presence in the grandparents lives of young UK to work at all without the help children - 21% of new of their children’s grandparents. grandparents see their According to Grandparents Plus, grandchildren daily and 43% see a staggering 1 million working them at least once every week. mothers in the UK rely on Two thirds of new parents would, grandparents for childcare. in fact, like their children to see And the importance of a even more of their grandparents! grandparent in a child’s life For the vast majority of children goes much further. An in the UK, grandparents are

6 Families NewcastleGateshead

miss out on opportunities. Having their grandparents around in their lives has enabled us as a family to get so much more out of life.”

Jaimie and Scott, who have one daughter, Martha, are also celebrating the role of grandparents in their lives.

“Our parents have been an integral part of Martha’s life since she was born. It was never a feasible option to become a stay at home mum. I needed to go back to work to help pay the bills but childcare costs would have made it pointless. My parents, Pat (51) and Rob (55) stepped in and told me they would have Martha three days a week. They wouldn’t take no for an answer!

“My parents encouraged Martha with her crawling and walking. At the moment, they sing nursery rhymes with actions and she is picking these up. If regularly on hand to offer my dad is doing DIY, he involves support, advice and comfort.

Martha if he is able to.

I spoke to Ellie, a nurse, who “I am extremely grateful that lives with her partner Ben and my parents are able to look after daughters Imogen, Beatrice Martha. Nothing ever seems to and Matilda. Ellie recognises be a bother for them and they how much her family has really do love having her.” benefited from the So, take out your assistance of two diary or schedule 55% of new sets of and make a note of parents grandparents.

Sunday, 7th “We have been October now. You wouldn’t be very lucky to have able to return may not easily find a both sets of card at major grandparents living to work at all retailers for the close by to help without the grandparents in with childcare and your life (although help of their bringing up our www.funkypigeon. children’s girls. I have gone com stocks a range back to work between grandparents. of Grandparents having each of our Day cards and gifts), children and but grandparents always love having grandparents around a home-made card or gift! has allowed me to do this. I Claire Smith is Marketing love my job and feel that it is Manager for The Baby to Toddler important for my girls to see Show returns to ExCeL London me going out to work, so me on 18th and 19th November and working is beneficial for everyone. to the NEC in Birmingham from “Our girls’ grandparents take 24th to 26th November. The them to amazing places, play shows are organised by Clarion games with them and are there Events, organisers of The Baby for stories and cuddles. They are Show, the hugely popular only able to do certain activities pregnancy and parenting and classes that they love because event which attracts over their grandparents are around 70,000 people each year. For to take them when we are working. more information, visit This means that the girls don’t www.babytotoddlerevents.co.uk

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Family Matters The Benefits of Boredom

By Gill Sims

and being told to go and read a book, or find something to do? Mine certainly involved a great deal of boredom, that in turn led to imaginary worlds and people and that perhaps then led to me becoming a writer. Without a healthy dose of boredom, there is no incentive to learn to think for ourselves, or to change things to alleviate boredom!

Of course, I’m not suggesting that children don’t deserve some fun, special treats and parental input. Just that sometimes, it doesn’t hurt them to be bored. There are enough things we are made to feel guilty about as parents and our children occasionally being bored should definitely not be one of them!

‘I’m bored!’ How many times do we hear those words as parents? I have lost If your child complains count of the number of times my precious moppets have whined over the frequently of boredom, fill a jar years that they are ‘bored’ as they demanded some form of entertainment with paper slips with tedious be provided (or at the very least that their electronics be returned after tasks written on them, like ‘tidy your room,’ ‘do the dusting,’ being confiscated yet again). But being bored is good for children; it’s part of ‘weed a flowerbed,’ ‘sort out childhood; it’s the catalyst to spark their imagination; it’s the pathway to your sock drawer.” Any time creative play and to finding solutions to problems themselves. someone complains of boredom, they have to pick a slip out randomly and complete the making playdough creations (in chore on it. When faced with Between work commitments response to the plaintive wail of fact, although my children this, it was astonishing how and school, our time with our ‘I’m bored’ is ‘Only boring people have outgrown playdough, the quickly my children found children is often limited and, of get bored’ to which my children very thought of the texture still themselves something more course, we want that time to roll their eyes and huff at me. be ‘quality time.’ However, by The children whose parents are makes me shudder). So I always interesting to do! providing a constant carousel like me and allow them to be encouraged my children to play So, embrace boredom! Your of activities, entertainments bored, soon start inventing independently, whether that cherubs will thank you for it one and days out, we are failing games, building worlds and was building Lego, mooching day. And even if they don’t to teach them how to amuse coming up with things to do, round the garden, or spending appreciate what you are so themselves, to develop inner whereas those children who are hours sitting in a selflessly doing resources and be happy with used to being given a series of box that was for them now, Without a their own company. suggestions and things to do, variously a castle, you might get a healthy dose of It’s natural to want our children struggle with the concept of a racing car and tidy house with to have fun, enjoy their childhood being told to just ‘go and play!’ an aeroplane. They boredom, there impeccably and have happy memories to After a little while though, when did have real toys ordered sock is no incentive look back on, but in our quest to no entertainment is too, but for some drawers out of it! to learn to think do that, sometimes we forget forthcoming, most of them do get reason empty that some of their best the hang of making up games, boxes were always for ourselves, or Gill Sims is the memories will come from the and using their imagination, extremely popular to change things bestselling things they learned, discovered, instead of being directed through - perhaps my kids author of Why to alleviate explored and sometimes a series of crafts or activities. In are part cat? But Mummy Drinks, boredom! struggled with themselves, not some cases, they even declare think back to your which spent a the things that were handed to being handed an old blanket own childhood. staggering 30 them on a plate. and told to go and make a den, How much of it was spent with weeks in the Sunday Times Top When my children have to have been ‘the best fun ever!’ your parents organising you 10 and was the bestselling friends over, it’s always My conviction about the into activities, undertaking debut hardback novel of 2017. obvious which ones are used benefits of boredom partly craft projects with you, or Her second novel Why Mummy to boredom, and which ones stems from fairly lazy parenting. taking you on days out, and Swears was published in are accustomed to a constant I’m just not one those parents how much of it was spent Hardback by HarperCollins in programme of events. My usual who enjoy spending hours complaining you were bored July 2018 RRP £12.99.

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Families NewcastleGateshead 7

Education Matters Helping Your Child Cope with Stress

By Claire Winter

Positivity: avoid negative language Patience: no one likes to be pressured Listen carefully: ask open-ended rather than leading questions Encourage your children to pursue things they love Support: seek extra help if you feel it’s needed.

Stress in primary school children has risen to worrying levels according to school leaders.

78% of school primary teachers in a recent survey reported a general increase in stress and anxiety among primary pupils.

According to the report by the website, Key, a national school support service, 27% of teachers surveyed attributed the increase in anxiety and stress to tests and 37% to social media. Thankfully MPs have finally acknowledged the adverse side-effects of SATs and have proposed eliminating them for seven year olds by 2023.

Thegovernmenthasalsocommitted £300 million to improve young people’s mental health. Many educationalists argue that this is too little, far too late. With evidence of self-harm, eating disorders and stress being on the increase in schools, what should we as parents be doing to help our kids feel less stressed?

Get Talking According to a poll run by Time to Change, 55% of families do not openly discuss mental health.

Katie Buckingham from the social enterprise, Altruist Enterprises (altruistuk.com) believes families should talk more about their problems. She believes the first step to combating this problem is to simply start a conversation.

Here are Katie’s six tips (think APPLES) when you talk to your child: Approach casually: mention well-known celebs like Adele who openly discuss their issues

8 Families NewcastleGateshead

Create a Healthy Routine Dr. Riccardo Di Cuffa, Director, and GP at Your Doctor (www.your-doctor.co.uk) says that having a healthy routine can help combat stress, particularly when your child is making the transition to a new school or starting the new school year.

Here’s what is important: Get Enough Sleep Sleep improves our memory, sharpens our attention span and helps us maintain a healthy weight. Avoiding gadgets an hour before bed and doing more relaxing activities such as reading or having a bath can make all the difference to the quality of your child’s sleep.

Always Eat Breakfast Make sure your child starts the day with a nutritious and healthy meal to set them up for a full day.

This will boost their energy and can also improve memory and decrease stress levels.

Check-in with your Child If your child seems stressed, for instance, if they are not sleeping well, not eating well, behaving more emotionally than usual or are less interactive or more clingy, you need to get them to talk and not bottle up their feelings and worries. Set aside a time when you and they are not too tired, like on the walk to school, or after you’ve eaten your evening meal and ask them how they are really feeling.

Exercise Getting regular exercise can reduce stress. Try to walk to school with your child, visit a playground or park on the way home or get out for a walk at the weekend. Encourage your child to participate in a sporting or

physical activity which will build exercise into their schedule automatically.

Try Mindfulness Starting a new school, the beginning of the new school year and general worry can make all family members feel pressured. Mindfulness and meditation can help children and parents alike. There is a growing body of evidence that mindfulness can help improve concentration and selfawareness, and help us all manage and regulate difficult emotions. You can introduce your child to mindfulness via apps on your phone, like Headspace and Buddifhy.

Buddifhy has released a kids’ section to their app. Rohan Gunatillake, the creator of the app, says taking just ten minutes out to practice mindfulness

with your child can help. “With children experiencing more pressure and stimulus than ever before, especially in the school environment, mindfulness is a technique which can be used by families to help them navigate modern life.”

Anxiety and stress can be self-perpetuating, your child is anxious so only focusses on the things in their life that are causing them to feel stressed.

Encourage them to have a positive outlook but also allow them to voice their fears. If you help teach your child about resilience and how to cope with the tough times, as well as the good ones, you will be teaching them a great skill for life.

If you are concerned about your child, please make sure you seek help from a medical professional.

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Education Matters Making the Best of Open Days This autumn, state and independent schools will be opening their doors to prospective pupils and their parents to give them a flavour of life at their school. Claire Winter has the lowdown on how to get the best out of these Open Days and tours.

What is an Open Day? School open days help you decide what school you want your child to go to. During an open day, prospective parents are shown around the school, often on a school day, to give them a flavour of the working life of the school and the school environment. You will be able to see the children in lessons and talk to the teachers and pupils.

Sometimes pupils are given the task ofshowing parents around the school. This is a great opportunity to ask them how they enjoy being at the school. Howsettled, relaxed and confident these children are can give you an idea of how happy the children are there. Usually, the head teacher or a senior member

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of staff also gives a talk which includes a general overview of the school and its values and ethos.

This is often followed by a presentation by the head of admissions or the relevant head of the section of the school (for example, head of reception, or sixth form).

When Are They Held?

State schools generally hold Open Days in September and October aimed at children and families looking for a school place for the following year. It’s a good idea to start looking a year in advance.

So if your child is starting school, start looking at schools when they are three. If you are looking for secondary school places, start looking in year 5 (when your child is nine or ten). You can then revisit the schoolsyou are most interested inwithyourchild the followingyear.

Independent schools often hold Open Days throughout the Autumn and Spring terms. They can have waiting lists for Reception-age children or require children to take a school-specific 7+ or 11+ exam to gain a place, so

you need find out the criteria for entry to the school and visit well in advance.

How are Open Days Organised?

Schools organise Open Evenings as well as days to allow working parents tovisit the school too. Some schools (mainly independent) hold OpenDaysonaSaturday.Allschools put a lot of care and organisation into the events and they all want to show their school in the best light. However, there may be a lot of people attending so do be sure to turn up on time and follow the school’s directions during the event.

Tips for Visiting an Open Day Take your child with you. There is no point in falling in love with a school only to find your child does not want to go there.

What is your general feeling about the school? Your gut reaction is very important. Do the pupils look happy and engaged?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Make sure you ask the pupils what they think of the school.

Don’t make decisions on individual teachers. They often move on and large departments have a variety of teachers that will rotate every year to teach your child a particular subject.

If your child has a particular interest in a subject, make sure you visit the department and look at the kind of work they will be doing.

What extra-curricular activities do they have? Are there clubs that will engage your child and allow them to pursue a broad range of interests?

While exam results aren’t everything, every parent wants their child to do well. Academic performance is a top priority for many families. It’s a good idea to see how the school is performing compared to other local schools, using exam league tables and Ofsted reports.

If, after the all your initial visits, you are still undecided, go back andvisit the schools onyour shortlist again during a normalworking day.

Finally, in making your decision, don’t be afraid to trust your instincts; you know your child and you are best placed to ascertain what is right for them. Ifyour child is older, do take account of their preferences too and include them in the decision making process.

The best decisionwill undoubtedly be the one you all agree.

Families NewcastleGateshead 9

Education Matters Where the Journey Begins

The Royal Grammar School is a special place, proud of its heritage, known and respected throughout the country as well as the North East. We inspire and nurture our students to be the best they can be, creating a deep sense of belonging and forging connections that will last a lifetime.

Our students go on to study highly selective courses at the

most sought-after universities, but also leave realising that life outside the classroom has been equally rewarding.

Excellence and success are built on the freedom our students are given to explore and the desire to push boundaries both in and outside the classroom. By exploring their passions in a happy environment we encourage

self-expression and truly nurture their academic promise.

All students, from the lowest age of seven through to the top end of the senior school at 18, are encouraged to get involved with a wide range of activities, challenging and stretching their minds to evolve new ways of thinking and discover future opportunities.

Student well-being is at the heart of everything we do. Our warm and caring culture helps nurture confidence and develop all the skills needed for a successful and happy life.

Adopting a team around the child approach, we bring together a number of associated partners including, teachers, parents, counsellors and school nurses, to offer support to students, doing all we can to ensure they feel happy, supported and valued on their journey through school.

We are able to combine all of this on one site, based in the

Special Educational Needs This could be: l Dyslexia l Discalcula l English as a second language l Concentration levels (such as ADHD) l Ability to socialise (including Autism spectrum) l Speech or hearing problems l Or a range of other problems or disabilities

We all worry when our child is having trouble keeping up with his or her peer group. But what happens if you suspect that it’s not that your child is just a little slower at grasping a concept – but actually needs some specialist help?

Special Educational Needs, or SEN, is a legal term that the Government and schools use to describe the kind of child who has some form of problem or disability that makes learning harder for

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them than their friends. It means that they have assessed your child and have been able to pinpoint what it is (or as nearly as they can) that makes it so very hard for your child to keep up.

Firstly, how do you get to this point? Parents, though sometimes reluctant to ‘label’ their child with what they may see as a disability, sometimes have a worrying time when they think their child is struggling but don’t mention it at the school. They may try to teach their child at home or go to a tutor. The truth is that the SEN coordinator (SENCO) at the school really is your best friend here. They will help you to get your child the diagnosis they need to get more help. And at the end of the day, when the

heart of Jesmond, just a stone’s throw from Newcastle city centre. The school has been in its present location since 1906 and has some fine Edwardian buildings, yet we continue to invest to ensure we have first class facilities with the latest technologies. Our sports facility opened its doors in September 2015 and has a 25m pool, free-weights gym, fitness studio and a second sports hall. This sits alongside an impressive Performing Arts Centre which features a 300-seater theatre, recording studio, dance studio, individual teaching rooms and a keyboard lab, and we are about to commence our next building development project which will create more inspiring spaces for learning.

For more information about the RGS and for information on visiting, please go to www.rgs.newcastle.sch.uk Open Day 2018: Saturday 17th November

education system places so much emphasis on passing exams and gaining points, any help you can get is to be welcomed.

Unfortunately, it’s not always that simple. Stretched schools with pupils from diverse backgrounds have a lot of pulls on their time and resources and it may be hard getting to the point where you can have your child assessed and a ‘statement of special educational needs’ applied. It’s important that you approach the school with your worries and your ideas of how your child could be helped and to keep asking questions – what help is there, when can it be given, is there anything else we can do at home to help, and so on.

Sometimes some extra tuition is all that is required but if your child is tested and is given a statement, this translates to extra help in classes – and most importantly, extra time in exams, sometimes as much as 50% extra. And surely, that’s to be welcomed as it can mean the difference for your child between a pass and a fail.

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Clubs and Classes Choose the Right Club or Class for your Child

By Claire Winter

Picking the right extra-curricular activities for your child can sometimes be overwhelming.

There are a huge variety of sports and classes available now from coding to Mandarin, from street dance to circus skills, as well as more traditional sports.

Here’s our guide on how to choose the most appropriate club or class for your child.

A good place to start is to ask your child what they are interested in. It’s likely that they will enjoy the activity if they have picked it themselves. My 11 year old twin girls have tried a wide variety of classes, which they enjoyed but didn’t want to continue. When I last asked them what they wanted to do, they said they wanted to join a running club. They now train two to three times a week and compete at least once a month.

It’s a big commitment forthewhole family but they absolutely love it.

Things to Consider: Willyourchild enjoythe class/club?

If they enjoy something, whether it’s art, football, animation or Frenchtheyare likelyto look forward to training with their team or attending a class every week.

Try Before You Buy Trialclassesareagreatwayforthem to experience something before you sign up for a term or group of classes. Many clubs and classes offer a free trial before you sign up.

Try a Variety Variety is the spice of life. If your schedule allows it, get your children to try a few different things on a trial basis. If they are not keen on trying something new, get them to go with a friend.

Can you Commit?

Someactivitiesinvolveearlymorning practice or games at the weekend. Can your family life and schedule accommodate the commitment needed? If your child plays sport competitively, it can often mean training daily or at least three times a week.

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Think about Cost Some activities are more expensive than others. 1:1 tuition or private lessons are more costly, whereas classes and team sports tend to cost less. Guiding or Scouts is an inexpensive club to join, and it’s great for team building and trying a variety of different activities. Investigate this option ahead of time though, as there can be waiting lists.

How Many?

Howmanyactivities are too many?

This is reallyup toyou but ifyou are tired of driving your children to all of their activities, it’s likely your child will be too; perhaps you are doing too much. Equally, if your children are bored at home and asking to be entertained, maybe it’s time to sign them up for something new.

Again take the lead from your child. Some children thrive from lots of extra-curricular activities while others get overwhelmed and over-stimulated. Listen to them and adjust their schedule accordingly.

Families asked parents across the UK for their views: Suzanne says, “I think extra clubs and lessons help build confidence and also give children a wider network of friends from other schools.”

Amanda likes extra-curricular activitiesbecausetheygivehermore flexibility so she can work. “I love them for giving me an hour or two ofextra time at the end ofthe day!”

Meli worries children are getting over-scheduled. “I think it’s good for children to learn new skills and to develop their interests but it can be too much for children and their parents. I do feel there is too much pressure to do extra activities. I believe clubs and classes are good but in moderation.”

Pippa thinks clubs and classes teach her children new skills. “I like that my children get to learn things that school wouldn’t necessarily offer. It broadens their experiences and makes them more resilient to all that life offers.

It also teaches them to have an open mind to new experiences and people. For example, music lessons can help with concentration, so they have a positive effect on school work too!”

Faye thinks that clubs and classes help your child find their passions but being at home is important too. “When they are young I think it’s good to give the kids

opportunities to find the things they really love to do but I’m conscious not to overdo it!!

Quality playing time at home is just as important.”

Learn to swim with Puddle Ducks!

Our swimming classes for 0-4 year olds run in ten week blocks and include free access to an online account to monitor your little one’s progress. Please mention this advert to receive a complimentary taster class on us.

Call 01661 824191 or e-mail newcastle@puddleducks.com to book. You can also find all class timetable information and prices on our website here: www.puddleducks.com/local-teams/ north-east We look forward to seeing you in the pool soon!

Fancy learning drums?

Now’s your chance Experienced professional drummer available to teach across Tyne & Wear, South Northumberland and North County Durham.

• Trained at prestigious Drumtech Music College.

• 15 years of live and recording experience across the UK. • Happy to teach any age range, specialising in beginners.

Whether you want to work towards grade exams, join a band or just learn your favourite songs for fun, get in touch!

07577 909688 / charliegoultydrums@gmail.com

Most babies learn best when they see, hear, feel, touch, taste and smell

Sneak a peek, it’s amazing

Our multi-award winning classes will introduce you and your baby to a world of sensory delights, where you can relax, spend quality time with each other and enjoy meeting other new parents.

To find out more visit: www.babysensory.com

Families NewcastleGateshead 11

Clubs and Classes What are Scouts all about? Dragons’ Den school in Newcastle welcomes pre-schoolers Beavers: – 6 – 8 year old Cubs: 8 – 10.5 year old Scouts: 10.5 – 14 year old Explorers: 14 – 18 year old Network: 18 – 25 year old

As Scouts,we believe in preparing young people with skills for life.

We encourage our young people to do more, learn more and be more.

Each week, we give over 460,000 young people the opportunity to enjoy fun and adventure while developing the skills they need to succeed, now and in the future. We’re talking about teamwork, leadership and resilience – skills that have helped Scouts become everything from teachers and social workers to astronauts and Olympians.

We believe in bringing people together. We celebrate diversity and stand against intolerance, always.

We’re a worldwide movement, creating stronger communities and inspiring positive futures.

Howold does mychild have to be?

Young people from the ages of 6 up to 25 can get involved in Scouts through several sections.

What do you get up to in Scouts?

Across all sections we provide Skills for Life, to grow and empower our young people to succeed in the future. We do this through fun, challenge and adventure.

This includes over 200 activities which are deliveredaroundtheclock, all year long, by our dedicated adult volunteers. We provide Beaver Scouts with their first night away from home and provide international opportunities for thousands of young people on a yearly basis.

How do I get my child involved?

You can find your nearest group location on our website, www.scouts.org.uk. Simply pop in your postcode and we’ll get you in touch with your nearest section.

What if I wanted to help?

We’re always looking for Adult Volunteers to join our ever-growing organisation. There are many roles to get involved with, from leading a section, helping on a monthly basis, or getting involved behind the scenes.Volunteeringwithourselves is very flexible – just ask your local group if you can help them out.

Creating Sensational Baby Bonds Baby Sensory classes will introduce your baby to a world of sensory delights, where the two of you can relax, have fun and share some truly special times. All classes are suitable from birth, it’s also a great way of making new friends, helping to create a structure in your exciting new life.

Baby Sensory is a magical world full oflight shows, puppets, bubbles, rainbows, massage, signing and songs, with different activities introduced each week.

What makes our multi-award winning programme so special is that every element is carefully designed with your baby’s development in mind. The structure of our classes follows a

12 Families NewcastleGateshead

baby’s nattural play play-rest-p cycle. This d helps avoid them becoming overor under-stimulated, and routine is important for their security and development.

Sharing the information with you is really important to us so we always explain what we’re doing andwhybefore each activity.

Soon after birth, the brain starts creatingtwomillionnewconnections every second! So we love helping you make the most of this amazing time in your baby’s life.

To find your nearest class please visit www.babysensory.com

The hugely successful part-time performing arts theatre school that famously appeared on Dragons’ Denwinning the backing ofDuncan Bannatyne, is delighted to announce a newclass aimed at littleonesandtheirparents/carers.

RazzTots is a newclass especially for pre-schoolers, which will open in Newcastle at the George Street Social with a FREE taster session on the 9th September 2018. The classes are designed to improve confidence, improve social and motor skills and to

provide a secure foundation for little one’s development.

Classes are open for all children aged 2 & 3 years and are parent/career assisted. As well as all the benefits to the children, the adults can enjoy meeting other parents and carers living locally over tea and coffee at the end of the class while the children play.

“Razz Tots has been designed in line with the governments Early Years Foundation Stage framework to create an enabling environment which facilitates a secure foundation for your child’s development,” says Principal of Razzamataz Newcastle Kayleigh Redford.

To secure your child’s place, please contact Kayleigh at newcastle@razzamataz.co.uk / 07772577855.

Krazy to miss out on this Kingdom We have something for everyone waiting foryou at KrazyKingdom.

We have our Krazy Kafé for parents to refuel while their little ones can enjoy everything from climbing walls, climbing frames and sliding down the astro slide, basketball and football and Krazy Karts and Kannons to take aim.

Check out our after school teatime deals with Eat & Play Special Offers with combined entry/meal discount deal – available 3pm – 5pm and weekends too from 11am – 5pm.

We offer 2 daily Toddler sessions at 10.30am or 1.30 pm for your 0-4 year old, with different events each day – including messy play and story time amongst other activities.

Available Monday – Friday (Term Time Only).

Once a month we close to the general public and run a SEND session, for parents, children and siblings to enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere and meet the animals from Hugs, Scales and Puppy Dogs Tails for some animal therapy.

There are 2 sessions on the 1st

Tuesday of every month.

“Fantastic idea! Nice to see a venue include every child in a place we would usually avoid as too stressful. Thank you very much!”

“I really liked all the areas having name cards and the First/Then communication boards to help my child understand” Birthdays are to be celebrated!

We have 6 packages to cater for all - from Toddler (1-4) to Disco and Make a Bear – all parties booked have a choice of themed room, your own party co-ordinator and a choice of hot/cold buffet plus 2 hours entertainment. No Hassle! No Stress! And No Mess!

Krazy Kingdom is also available as a venue to hire for your own fund raising event.

Schools, clubs, groups, classes, teams and charities are able to hire the venue and sell your own tickets, run a raffle and tombola and raise funds in a fun environment foryour chosen cause.

To take a look visit www.krazykingdom.com or for further details and bookings please call 01207 528899 or email: info@krazykingdom.com

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s on & Where Face Your Fears Be Brave this Half Term

This October half-term Seven Stories, the National Centre for Children’s Books, inviteyou to face your fears, be brave and dream boldlybyasking the big questions.

What are your greatest fears?

Who could you be without your fears? How can books help you, your friends and your family navigate the world we live in and inspire a courageous and curious life?

Become friends with your greatest fear as Polish children’s book author and illustrator Piotr Karski helps you to take a leap in creative

workshop Fear – myWonderful Pet. Make a din and dance away the dark in special I’m not Scared Dance Parties or take a Walk on the Dark side in one of our after-hours haunted tours of the building.

Dive in, be brave and explore the deepest, darkest part of the sea with Mariana Trench!

Join in an imaginative play workshop to discover the weird and wonderful creatures you might find lurking in this unknown part of the world…

Plus it will be lights-out at lunchtime for multi-sensory Storytime in the Dark every day!

With Death and Conversation Cafes to open up dialogue around fear, sadness and grief and Glow in the Dark Painting – this half-term programme is one not to be missed!

Visit www.sevenstories.org.uk to explore the full programme and book in advance.

The latest inflatable play craze now in Newcastle

Britain’s latest inflatable play craze has arrived in Newcastle, bringing a collection of giant inflatable games and challenges to entertain adults and children alike.

TV presenter Alex Winters, one of the team behind Inflatable Planet and Gung-Ho! the world’s biggest inflatable 5k run, said: “We have spent a full year imagining, designing and testing Inflatable Planet to ensure kids and adults will have serious fun and we are beyond thrilled that Newcastle is our premier location and the first in the UK.

SEN Monday

2nd Thursday of the Month

Community Session, The Ark, Crawcrook, NE40 3UG 1.30 – 3pm School Use Only – To Book in advance, FREE. Every Monday the Ark is available for local community groups/schools to book out privately for Free (donations accepted). Suitable for preschool to primary age. Users have included support groups forchildren and adults with learning difficulties, local charities and school groups forinteractive R.E. lessons. www.crawcrook.org.uk or tel 0191 413 1339

SNAP Session at The Ark, Crawcrook, NE40 3UG 4.30 – 6.30pm under 5’s £3.95 over 5’s £4.95. SNAPsessions are forchildren (and their siblings) with special needs and ordisabilities. Both the soft playand sensoryroomareclosedtogeneralpublic, drinks and snacks are available to purchased and meal deals can be pre ordered up to 2pm on the day of SNAP. Suitable for preschool to primary school age. A short registration is required on 1st visit. www.crawcrook.org.uk or tel 0191 413 1339

1stTuesdayofthe Month

Saturday weekly

SEND Play Sessions at Krazy Kingdom, Annfield Plain, Co. Durham DH9 7YB 4-6 pm or 6-8pm £5.00 per child. For children with a range of special needs and disabilities. The doors are closed to general public and on-hand SEND specialist using animals as a therapy tool. Siblings welcome. Reserve your space at info@krazykingdom.com or tel 01207 528899

Disability Friendly Hour at Inflatable Planet, Walker Activity Dome, NE6 3BR 3pm – 4pm. Every Saturday there is reduced capacityand quiet surroundings with extra support from staff for those with disabilities to use the facilities. www.inflatableplanet.co.uk

1stSaturdayoftheMonth Early Bird Opening at Seven Stories, Ouseburn, Newcastle, NE1 2PQ 9am – 10am - Normal admission applies. For visitors on the Autism spectrum and their families. An early opening to ease your arrival and enjoy a stress free visit. No music or tannoy announcements. Sensory backpacks and ear defenders available at reception. Relaxed story time at 10am. Social story available on the website.

Please call 0300 330 1095 or visit www.sevenstories.org.uk

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“These obstacles are SO fun to use, and offer a day out like no other venue in the region. Unlike other attractions, parents don’t have to pay to look after their kids – we really encourage families to spend time together and the feedback we’ve received so far proves we are on to a winner!

“We’ve all seen shows like Ninja Warrior, Total Wipeout, Fun House and Gladiators, and now Inflatable Planet will give us all the chance to play for real, with people encouraged to take on their friends on the inflatables.”

“I think I’ve seen just about every activity and party going and this beats them all! We have spent hours here and don’t want to leave. Every inflatable is such great fun and I’ve loved being able to be involved although it took a few attempts for them to convince me to leap off CliffJump!”

Relaxed Screenings atTyneside Cinema, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 6QG Details of the current month’s relaxed screenings are available from 28th of the previous month. Anyone can attend these screenings but they are designed to cater for viewers who may be on the autistic spectrum, have other learning difficulties or experience anxiety or sensory issues. The lights are dimmed rather than turned off and the volume level is reduced. Visit site to download a Relaxed Screening Visual Story. Screenings are less restrictive of noise and movement by audience. Details available on line or at the reception. Please call 0191 227 5500 or visit www.tynesidecinema.co.uk

Families NewcastleGateshead 13

What’s on & Where Regular What’s On

Daily-untilFebruary2019

Time to Get Up at Seven Stories, Ouseburn Valley, Newcastle Upon Tyne.

Freewith admission price.Amulti sensory adventure with sensory props suitable for children aged 0-4 years and their families. Annual pass available. www. sevenstories.org.uk/exhibitions/ttgu

Daily–until30thJune2019 Were Your Wings Were.... Journeys with David Almond at Seven Stories, Ouseburn Valley, Newcastle Upon Tyne.

Free with admission price. Exhibition delves into the writers dreamlike worlds and part of The Great Exhibition of the North. Suitable for children 7+ and their families. Annual pass available. www.sevenstories.org.uk/ exhibitions/713/where-your-wingswere-journeys-with-david-almond Storytime at Seven Stories, Ouseburn Valley, Newcastle Upon Tyne.

10.30am/ 1pm/ 3.30pm daily. Free with admission. Stories by the expert Story Catchers for the whole family.

All included in normal admission fee.

Monday – Friday Daily ToddlerTime Sessions at KrazyKingdom Monday– Friday Daily 10.30 & 1.30pm - £2.85 1-4yrs. Daily Toddler sessions with a different theme each day. Free for 0-6 month/ £0.50 6-12 month. www.krazykingdom.com

Monday Brunton Babies Group, St Aidan’sChurch Community Room, Gosforth, NE3 5NF 9.45-11.45 am – no booking required Achance to meet other mums and relax, chat and watch your baby exlore. For babies underone this is the place to come! www.newcastletoddlers.com or contact Ade Bilton 07742 522832

Tuesday Bravo Drama Group, The Ark, Crawcrook, NE40 3UG 10 – 10.45 am - Term Time Only – Booking is essential. Bravo is a fun, imaginative environment which uses drama, dance and more to help your children’s confidence flourish. Price includes 30 minutes of free soft play. www.bravoperformance.co.uk or call 07419 141 234 Brunton Toddlers Group, St Aidans Community Centre, Gosforth, NE3 5NJ 10 – 11.45am – no booking required Pre School and earlyyears activities from arts and crafts, music time & parachute games to trikes and dress up. www.newcastletoddlers.com or contact Ade Bilton 07742 522832

Wednesday Messy Play, The Ark, Crawcrook, NE40 3UG 10 – 11am Booking is required, £5 for 1st child and £4 extra siblings. Different weekly themes for kids aged 0-5 years, Tea/Coffee and juice included and an hour of soft play after. Book online or tel. 0191 413 1339

Thrsday Bringing in Baby Screenings Tyneside Cinema, Newcastle, NE1 6 GQ Screenings for parents with children under 2 years. Lights are up a little and sound is down for the enjoyment and comfort of your little ones. Baby 14 Families NewcastleGateshead

change and bottle warming facilities are available with buggy park available. Some Sunday screenings are also available for family viewing. www.tynesidecinema.co.uk or call 0191 227 5500 Messy Play, The Ark, Crawcrook, NE40 3UG 10 – 11am – asabove - but Term Time Only. Different weekly themes for kids aged 0-5 years, Tea/Coffee and juice included and an hour of soft play after.

Book online or tel. 0191 413 1339 Brunton Toddlers Group, St Aidans Community Centre, Gosforth, NE3 5NJ 10 – 11.45am – no booking required Pre School and early years activities from arts and crafts, music time & parachute games to trikes and dress up. www.newcastletoddlers.com or contact Ade Bilton 07742 522832

Friday St Mary’s Rhymetime – under 5’s St Mary’s Heritage Centre, Oakwellgate, Gateshead, NE8 2AU 10:30–11:00/£1.00-perchildpayable at the door. Fun session of songs, rhymes, stories and musical instruments to encourage children to engage with reading from an earlyage. Refreshments served afterwards. www.heritage@gateshead.gov.uk / (0191) 433 4699 Ryton Toddler Group – Term Time Only Ryton Community Infant School, Main Road, Ryton, Tyne and Wear, NE40 3AF 9.30 – 11.00 / £1.00 per session. Runs Weekly in Orange Class. Toys, games, art & baby area, drinks and snacks included. Everyone welcome. No booking required. 0191 4132776 / RytonCommunityInfantSchool@ Gateshead.gov.uk Forest Adventurers Pre-School Sessions – Term Time Only Ryton Junior School, Ryton 10:45 – 12:00 / £8.50 per session drop in. Parents and pre-school children activities/outdoor fun, snacks and drinks, Block booking discount and sibling discounts available. Booking Essential for discounts. suzanne@forestadventurers.co.uk / 07711461409 Brunton Babies Group, St Aidan’s Church Community Room, Gosforth, NE3 5NF 9.45-11.45 am – no booking required.

Achance to meet othermums and relax, chat and watch your baby exlore. For babiesunderonethisistheplaceto come! www.newcastletoddlers.com or contact Ade Bilton 07742 522832

Saturday Fuse Community Cinema, Prudhoe, NE42 5LJ 4pm and 7pm showings every second Saturday. Checkwebsite orsocial media for listings/prices and to book online or you can purchase 30 mins before each start time from the Cinema Shop.

Under 12’s must be accompanied by an adult. www.fusecinema.co.uk or tel. 01661 839380 Childrens Film Club atTyneside Cinema, Newcastle NE1 6QG Saturday mornings - £5.00 / person Under 12 film club, must be accompanied by an adult. See online for details and special offers in the Tyneside Bar Cafe. www.tynesidecinema.co.uk or call 0191 227 5500

What’s On Sept/Oct SEPTEMBER 30th Aug - 30th Sept Great North Festival ofAgriculture, BeamishThe living museum ofthe North.

Normal admission applies and free entry for Unlimited Pass holders. A month long festival celebrating the region’s rural heritage. Featuring everything from vehicles to vegetables and including harvest celebrations there is family fun to be had each weekend during September there is a different event.www.beamish.org.uk/events/ festival-of-agriculture/

6-9th/13-16th Sept Heritage Open Days England’s largest festival of history and culture. Every year places across the country throw open their doors to celebrate their heritage, community and history. For more information visit: www.heritageopendays.org.uk

8th & 15th Sept Seven Stories Open Day – Building History and Tour – Heritage Days 11am & 2pm – FREE but booking essential. Guided tour to unveil the building’s history and the connection to David Almond’s book Heaven Eyes.

The tour lasts 45 mins and is suitable for the whole family. Places are limited.

15th Sept Land ofOak & Iron Heritage Open day, Derwentcote Steel Furnace, car park off A694.

DerwentcoteSteelFurnace.10.30-3.30pm Booking recommended as places limited. This Grade 1 listed building is one of the few remaining examples of how iron was turned into steel hundreds of years ago. Tour runs from 1pm – 3pm. You can browse the information boards at your leisure or join the tour around the furnace and down to the cottages.

Land ofOak & Iron Heritage Open Day, Heritage Centre,Winlaton Mill, NE21 6RU Crowley’s Ironworks Uncovered. 5-7pm Bookable event. Short presentation and walk to see recently uncovered low dam and spillway. These are the only visible remains of what was once the largest ironworks in Europe. www.landofoakandiron.org.uk

16th Sept Little Nippers Baby and Toddler Nearly New Sale, StAidans CommunityCentre, Brunton Park, Gosforth, NE3 5NJ 2 – 3.30pm £2.00 entry & kids go FREE. Why pay high street prices when you can get unbelievable savings on new and nearly new, clothes, toys and large items such as buggies/prams/cots.

Refreshments available. Free parking, Free goody bags. Contact Ade Bilton 07742 522832 for personal stalls and business opportunities.

22nd Sept Tiny Lives Nearly New Sale, TrinityChurch, Gosforth NE3 4AG 10am – 1pm. Events to raise money for the Tiny Lives Trust (the charity that supports the award winning special

care baby unit at Newcastle RVI). New andlightlyusedbaby/toddlertoys, clothes and equipment. Call 07986 902471 www.tinylivesnearlynewsales.org.uk

24th-30th Sept National Eye Health Week Awareness week promoting the importance of eye health and the need for regular sight tests for all. www.visionmatters.org.uk

28th Sept MacMillan Coffee Morning 2018 Perfect excuse for a catch up with friends and you are EXPECTED to eat cake!! for a good cause... obviously! Worlds biggest coffee morning – search the site for your local event or host your own. Marks & Spencer, Gateshead have an event and have a fantastic range of Coffee Morning treats from cakes, biscuits, cake mixes and limited edition mugs during September. Recipes and ideas are available on line. www.coffee.macmillan.org.uk

30th Sept Saltwell Park Family Sculture Day, The Grove, Saltwell Park, Gateshead.

11am – 4pm FREE but donations welcome – small charge for tool hire and nails. This years theme is ‘Around the World in 80 Days’. A family day of building and banging and creating with construction. As always there will be tonnes of wood, tools, nails and expert artists on hand to help! For more information: tel 0191 4338420 or email: gatesheadlive@gateshead.gov.uk

30th Sept Beamish Classic CarDay, Beamish The Living Museum of the North.

Normal admission applies and free entry for Unlimited Pass holders.

A magnificent collection of cars dating from 1920’s onwards. See website for details if you are interested in bring your vehicle along. Fantastic day out for enthusiasts and novices alike. www.beamish.org.uk/events/ classic-car-day/

OCTOBER 6th & 7th Oct Fun Palace, Cumberland Arms, & Newcastle & Gateshead Library, Prince Consort Road.

Fun Palaces is an annual,free, nationwide celebration of culture at the heart of community, using arts, science, craft, tech, digital, heritage and sports activities as a catalyst for community engagement. www.funpalaces.co.uk

7th Oct National Grandparents Day (UK) The purpose of grandparents day is to honour grandparents, to give grandparents an opportunity to show love for their children’s children and to help children become aware of the strength, information and guidance older people can offer.

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s on & Where

10th Oct

23rd Oct- 3rd Nov

27th October

31st Oct

Ghostly and Grisly Quayside Tales – CityTour 7pm - booking non-essential – just turn up £5.00/£3.00 Over 60’s (under 16 FREE but still to book).

Meet and finish at Newcastle Guildhall. A circular quayside walk with ghost stories, witches, bodies fished out of the river and murders on both sides of the Tyne. (This walk includes some steep slopes) www.newcastlegateshead.com/ city-guides

Half Term Graveyard Ghoul Trail, St Mary’s Heritage Centre, Gateshead.

10am – 4pm FREE Drop In (closed Sunday/Monday). Come along in the school holidays and take part in our fun graveyard trail. Search the building and graveyard to find the hidden ghouls and win a small prize. Further details: www.heritage@gateshead.gov.uk or tel 0191 4334699

Halloween Party, Krazy Kingdom, Annfield Plain, Co Durham.

5-7pm, £3.5/child (adults FREE), Disco, party games, fancy dress competition for children and adults and a pumpkin competition. Ticket entry only. www.krazykingdom.com tel. 01207 528899

Walk on the Dark Side – City Tour 7pm – booking essential. £5.00/£3.00 Over 60’s (under 16 FREE but still to book). Meet at Grey’s Monument and finish at Broad Chare. This walk looks at the traditions and stories linked to All Hallows Eve and the city. (This walk includes some steep slopes or steps) www.newcastlegateshead.com/ city-guides

12-14th/19-21st/2631st Oct

Halloween Evenings at Beamish Museum 6.30pm – 9.30pm / Booking required – from September – 0191 3704000.

Beamish will be overrun by spooky ghosts and terrifying monsters to give you a Halloween fright night you’ll never forget. With the Town, Pit Village, Colliery Yard, Pockerley Old Hall and Waggonway swamped with petrifing creatures, only the brave will dare to knock on the doors to trick or treat...There is a selection of activities available for younger and older children. Fancy dress is recommended for all. Visitors advised to bring a torch and wear sturdy footwear. Note: Beamish Unlimited Passes are not valid www.beamish.org.uk/events

Terror in the Trees, Beamish Hall, Beamish.

30 minutes session/ £21.00 Booking required. “Enter on a truly terrifying journey through the woods gripping tightly to your loved ones for dear life as the terror attacks from every conceivable angle. We dare you down to the woods one day.” Terror in the trees is for ages 14 years and over. This event is not recommended for those who are pregnant, suffer from claustrophobia, have walking difficulties, suffer from heart problems or for those who have a photosensitive form of epilepsy. Fancy dress is not allowed.

We advise outdoor clothing (Wellington’s – Hiking Boots – Water Proofs). 01207 233733 / www.beamish-hall.co.uk/events

20-21st Oct Jarrow Hall Autumn Craft Fayre, Jarrow.

10am – 4pm FREE. Come along and enjoy browsing bustling stalls brimming with unique creations, one of a kind gifts, artisan foods and locally produced art. Normal entry prices apply to explore and enjoy the rest of the unique site. www.jarrowhall.org.uk

22-23rd/26-27th/31st

25th October & 31st Oct Half Term Creepy Crafts, St Mary’s Heritage Centre, Gateshead.

10.30-1pm £2.00/child, Drop In Join us for some frightening fun and creepy crafts this half term. Make a spooky surprise to take home with you and help us to decorate our scary scene! Refreshments available.

Further details: www.heritage@gateshead.gov.uk or tel. 0191 433 4699

27th Oct -4th Nov Spooky HalfTerm at as Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens.

11am – 4pm / normal entry price on the day. ‘Fangtastic’ family fun at Belsay Hall for October half term.

Meet our spooky characters and get creative with some creepy crafts.

Frightening fancy dress is encouraged! www.english-heritage.org.uk

27th Oct- 4th Nov (weekends only) Haunted Hall Ghost Tours (Families) 6-7pm booking essential 03703 331183 Stay up late for a candle-lit ghost tour and hear some spooky (but family-friendly) stories, explore the hall after dark but be on your guard for things that go bump in the night..... torch recommended. Torchlight Ghost Tour (children over 14years).

7.30-8.30pm booking essential 03703331183. For the first time dare to explore Belsay Hall after hours...guided by torchlight you’ll hear tales from the eerie hall’s haunted past.

28th Oct

5th November Blue Flames Fireworks Display, Whitley Park, Whitley Road, Benton NE12 9SF. 5 -8pm Ticketed Event. Family event with open bar and food vendors. Rides and bouncy castles gates open at 5pm and display starts at 7pm. Tickets can be purchased in person or online at www.eventbrite.co.uk

4th & 5TH November Bonfire Night, Beamish Hall, Beamish, Stanley, DH9 0YB. 5pm – 10 pm. £5.00 / person & £5.00 / car parking. A fire the size of a house and a firework light & musical show to truly capture and warm the hearts and minds of our guests. So big, we’re now doing 2 amazing nights filled with live entertainment, dancers, fire breathers, bands, carnival rides, candy stalls, street food, and a plethora of beverages for one and all. Tickets available: www.beamish-hall.co.uk

Halloween Party, FuzzyEd’s Fun House @ Harvester, North Shields, NE29 9DN. 5.30-7pm Ticketed event £8/child 0191 2576821. Games, soft play, disco and buffet. Fancy dress competition with prize. Please call in or telephone to purchase tickets. www.fuzzyeds.co.uk

From the company that brought you THE GRUFFALO live on stage

These listings are for guidance only – please check before you go To include your upcoming event in our listings, email events@familiesnewcastle.co.uk or upload your event listing to our website - www.familiesonline.co.uk

‘Delightful, funny and imaginative’

The Snail and the Whale © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 2003 – Macmillan Children’s Books.

The Gruffalo © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 1999 – Macmillan Children’s Books

INDEPENDENT

Inspired by the book by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler

Wed 3 – Fri 5 Oct

BOOK NOW 0191 230 5151 northernstage.co o.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Tickets: £12.50/£9.50 Children

HHHHH HHHHH HHHHH S C OT S M A N

W H AT S O N S TAG E

B ROA DWAY B A B Y

Ages

4+

Families NewcastleGateshead 15

This is

NEWCASTLE at Walker Activity Dome

OPEN

EVERY WEEKEND AND SCHOOL HOLIDAYS! THE

BIGGEST SET OF

INFLATABLE GAMES & CHALLENGES -

ALL UNDER ONE ROOF

£8, £5 under 5’s

No Entry fee for parents

IT’S PARTY TIME AT FULLY INCLUSIVE PACKAGE

£150

For details & available hours:

InflatablePlanet.co.uk

up to 10 guests

NEWCASTLE With the biggest set of inflatable games & challenges, Inflatable Planet is ready to give you the best party ever!

For further details and to book: InflatablePlanet.co.uk

No entry fee for parents.

Book online to save money and make sure you get a space for the time you want. In store price £9/£6.

Every person that enters the Game Area must wear Inflatable Planet socks.

Cost: £2 These can be kept and used again.

InflatablePlanet.co.uk