Families East Kent Magazine September/October 2018

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IN THIS ISSUE RECRUITING NOW Successful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside and without compromising family commitments or current career.

If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle

please call Vicki King 07501 433 922

Issue 5 September/October 2018 familiesonline.co.uk

Making the most of school open days Independent or state education for your child?

Halloween Spooktacular

familiesonline.co.uk Families East Kent

VOICE TRIALS for boys aged 7 & 8 10th November 2018 NOV 24 – DEC 9 (WED – SUN) DEC 10 – 24 (DAILY)

Enquiries are welcome at any time

Substantial scholarships are awarded and choristers benefit from an all-round excellent education at St Edmund’s School Canterbury.

The Master of Choristers, David Flood, is always pleased to meet and advise parents and their sons.

For further details please telephone

01227 865242 davidf@canterbury-cathedral.org @No1Cathedral

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C O-EDUCATIONAL DAY & B OARDING SCHO OLS FOR PUPILS AGED 3-18

age 3 - 13 www.junior-kings.co.uk

age 13 - 18 www.kings-school.co.uk

OPEN MORNINGS Pre-Prep & Prep School: Saturday 13th October 2018 13+ Entry: Saturday 6th October 2018 Saturday 9th March 2019 Sixth Form Entry: Saturday 22nd September 2018 Saturday 22nd June 2019

Refresh your family’s diet

Natural entry points at Pre-Prep, Year 3, Year 5, Year 7, Year 9 & Year 12

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Call your local veg team Hannah & Pete on 01227 207321 riverford.co.uk

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01/08/2018 10:30:43

East Kent Managing Editor Rebecca Carr editor@familieseastkent.co.uk 07789 882 467 Advertising Amanda Biggs amanda@familiespublishing.co.uk 07835 848066 Next issue November/December 2018 Booking deadline 1 October Printed By Holbrooks Printers Ltd Cover image: Deposit Photos Distributing 19,000 copies to: Ashford, Canterbury, Faversham, Whitstable, Herne Bay, Broadstairs, Margate, Ramsgate, Deal, Dover, Folkestone and all the areas in between.

Contents 4. News & views 6. Eduation news 7. Making the best of open days 8. Independent or state education for your child?

10. My kids can’t eat that!

12. What’s on in September and October 14. Halloween and October half term activities

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Stay in touch Families east kent magazine © Families East Kent 2018 Families East Kent is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families East Kent are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families East Kent. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families East Kent ; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

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If you think we’re on the same page, contact Families East Kent Magazine today and see how we can help your business do more. Email Rebecca for details, editor@familieseastkent.co.uk

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News & views

New natural play area at Hever Castle & Gardens Families with young children now have another reason to visit Hever Castle with the addition of a new play area for the under 7s.

The historic attraction in Kent recently opened a new natural play area – Acorn Dell. It includes a 2 metre high living willow structure, a giant sandpit, a mound with three tunnels to clamber in and a climbing frame. Located in the trees are two lookout platforms linked by a clatter bridge and with a slide for making a quick escape.

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

A unique opportunity for boys aged 7 & 8

Heritage Open Days, 6-9 and 13-16 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 visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk Here’s a taste of some of the activities nearby that have already registered but check out What’s on guide on pages 12 for full details: Dover Museum Family Day, Dover Society, Dover, CT See the world’s oldest known seagoing boat from the Bronze Age! Powell Cotton Museum, Quex Park, Birchington, CT7 0BH Discover a hidden world of adventure and expect the unexpected!

Dickens House Museum Broadstairs, CT10 1QS Celebrate Charles Dickens long connection with the seaside town of Broadstairs.

Congratulations to the Piper family from Ramsgate who won the Family weekend break to Paultons Park as featured in our May/June 2018 issue.

Peppa Pig World at Paultons Park is now bigger and better than ever

Paultons Park in Hampshire is home to the world’s first exclusive Peppa Pig World and from and UK the 16 May 2018 be more Peppa fun there will with the opening of The highlight will be two fun new rides, a large new expansion.

Coach Ride and The Queen’s Flying Grampy Rabbit’s Sailing Club. The Flying Coach Ride Queen’s will take families on a royal tour around of Peppa Pig World in part the majestic Queen’s individual coaches starting from the top of Castle. Hop aboard at Grampy Rabbit’s brightly coloured Sailing Club, join boats the around Peppa Pig World and discover adventure and sail Pirate Island!

As well as the new rides, friends to meet, includingthere will be plenty of new Peppa Gerald Giraffe and maintenance team Mr Bull and his with their digger and crane! Paultons has also built an additional dedicated Park baby new Peppa- themed catering outlet called care centre and a The Queen’s Kitchen!

Peppa Pig World has over 5 acres of fully themed fun! are already 7 fabulous There rides including Miss Flight, Peppa’s Big Rabbit’s Helicopter Balloon Ride, Grandpa’s Dinosaur Adventure Little Train, George’s and you can even Windy Castle. Peppa ride in a ‘cloud’ around Pig World features Georges Spaceship a Playzone and superb huge indoor play area, attractions including animated themed a in their house. Peppa chance to visit Peppa and her family Pig World is also Big Tummy café home to Daddy Pig’s and Peppa’s Toy Shop, dedicated Peppa Pig shop in the World! the largest (and only) Plus, there is lots more Kingdom, an amazing to enjoy at Paultons Park including Lost two world class family Dinosaur theme park world that features rollercoasters, life-like dinosaurs, Jurassic animatronic themed family rides, play park and an amazing opportunity a Prehistoric adventure with ‘living’, walking to come face to face Dinosaurs! Guests skies upon on The can Flight of the Pterosaur, soar high into the suspended coaster, a mighty and unique which takes family high and low around adventurers swooping a Tour Co. takes visitors prehistoric landscape. The Dinosaur on an exciting 4x4 come face to face jeep expedition to with some of the largest and most dinosaurs to have fearsome walked the planet.

Little Africa opened earlier this year. See corner of Africa and the Park’s own little discover the amazing of the savanna. From animals and birds Meerkats, to Porcupines, Mongoose there Lizards to are animals of all shapes and size and entertain. Visit to delight the Giant Pouched Rats nocturnal house to see the Fennec Foxes, and Scorpions before the picturesque free flying aviary to meet venturing back in to Black-Crowned Night Trumpeter Hornbills, Herons and many, species. many more fascinating

WIN a family short break at and entry to Paultons to enjoy this summer Park

Families East Kent Magazine has teamed with Paultons Park up and DoubleTree Hilton Hotel, Southampton to offer one lucky reader a two-night family 2 adults and 2 children short break for plus a family ticket to Paultons Park to enjoy this summer.

Don’t wait until then, though! Any boy who is 7 or 8 years old and who enjoys singing can be considered and the Cathedral organist, David Flood, will be delighted to meet and advise them at any convenient time. It is not necessary to have had any musical training: it’s just potential that Dr Flood is keen to see. He will give lots of encouragement, help about how to prepare for the audition and can answer any queries and give all sorts of information. He makes sure that all the music-making in the Cathedral is fun and the life of a chorister is a wonderful and unique experience.

The choristers, enjoy the excellent facilities of St Edmund’s School, Canterbury and receive very substantial scholarships from the Cathedral. The Cathedral Choir House has recently enjoyed a £2 million renovation. Canterbury Cathedral choir enjoys the very highest reputation across the world and performs to many thousands of people every year, at home and through radio and television.

The life of a chorister is full of excitement and the huge reward of being part of such a special team. It is the chance of a lifetime. For further information, contact David Flood on 01227 865242 or email davidf@canterbury-cathedral.org.

Penny and Monique’s Caribbean Adventure Penny and Monique’s Caribbean Adventure is a delightful story that explores the importance of family, community and culture as seen through the eyes of eight year old twins who visit the island of Jamaica for the first time. Whether it is spending time with a woman who talks to her animals, meeting bad tempered dogs or encountering cows and crabs. They experience fun, laughter and scary times. Join them on their adventure.

The book is available on amazon.co.uk and retails at £8.99.

The Hope Tree Counselling & Consultancy Service provide support and workshops to parents in Ashford The Hope Tree Counselling & Consultancy Service launched in Ashford in 2015 to provide a holistic service to support and engage families and their children in the community and within education settings. The motivation is to see children, young people and families live lives that are full of hope, develop resilience and thrive. The services on offer extend to a diverse section of the community in Ashford. This has involved providing a therapeutic counselling support for children in schools as well as supporting parents and pastoral staff with advice and consultancy. They also support children with varying degrees of emotional problems as well as those with special needs. Further support involves parent and children activity days, parenting workshops and forums and individual support for parents.

WIN!

Enter by 30 June

familiesonline.co.uk

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Canterbury Cathedral Choir is looking to award substantial scholarships to talented boys who would like to join them in September 2019. Auditions will be held on 10th November 2018.

Competition

The prize includes a two night stay in a family room at the DoubleTree Hilton Hotel, Southampton breakfast and a family with ticket for entry to Peppa Pig World Paultons Park including for the day.

To enter the competition email editor@familieseas with your full name, tkent.co.uk address and tell us where Paultons Theme Park is or like Park Magazine, click on our Facebook page, Families East Kent the pinned post at tell us the answer the on that post. Entries top of the page and close on 30 June 2018.

T&C’s apply. Full details can be found www.familiesonline on .co.uk/local/east-k our website ent/competitions.

No cash or prize alternative.

There is an amazing variety of things to see and do at Park all set within Paultons 140 acres of beautiful for yourself this summer. parkland. Come and see Further information times is available online at paultonspark.co.u including opening k

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Entry to Acorn Dell is included in the admission price to Hever Castle. Gardens only: Adults £14.50; Seniors £12.95; Student £12.35, Children (5-15). £9.20; Under 5s free. Family ticket £39.90. For more information visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

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Maureen Gordon is the Director of the Hope Tree and professionally she has supported children young people and their families in various roles in the social care sector and within Education for over 30 years. For more details visit www.myhopetree.org.uk

17/04/2018 12:10

4 Families East Kent

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Back to School Reading Some children start school in September without having read much over the summer holidays and may be at a lower reading level than at the end of the previous year. All is not lost – but it is essential to get off to a good reading start.

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Reading should always be a positive experience. If children are struggling with a book and not enjoying it, help them out by sharing the reading, or let them choose another. Have fun using silly voices, reading to pets, siblings or teddies.

Get children into a good reading routine. Once a routine is established, reluctant readers are much less likely to protest. Bedtime is not always a good time to listen to young readers, when they are likely to be tired.

It is important that children read a wide breadth of books at the right level of difficulty so that they gain confidence and develop good comprehension skills. Don’t push children up reading levels too quickly just to keep up with peers.

For more reading advice and access to a great supply of inspiring books, go to www. readingchest.co.uk. Reading Chest is offering Families readers £5 off their first month’s membership with the code FAM18.

Only half of pre-school children read to daily The number of toddlers being read to daily has dropped by 20% since 2013, according to recent research. The annual Understanding the Children’s Book Consumer survey from Nielsen Book Research found that while 69% of pre-school children were read to daily in 2013, that figure had now dropped to just 51%.

The study found parents complained of obstacles preventing them from reading to their children. Nearly a fifth said it was hard to find the energy at the end of the day, whilst 16% said their child would rather do other things. One in five parents don’t feel comfortable in bookshops, and nearly half are overwhelmed by the choice of children’s books.

Publishers Egmont, who co-funded the research, said the decline correlated with an increase of almost a fifth in the proportion of toddlers watching online video content daily, and warned that the “steep decline” in reading to young children “signalled a significant threat to child development, with potential long-term social impact.”

Join East Kent Football Club this Autumn Affiliated to Kent FA, East Kent FC are a youth football team for boys and girls from 5 years old Established in 2014, they provide a safe and fun enviroment for children of all ages and abilities to enjoy football. The club have now expanded and provide a weekly soccer school for over 150 children.

All staff and volunteers are DBS Checked, first aid trained and have completed, or are working towards a recognised coaching qualification.

They are now looking for players of all ages to join their Soccer School. If you are looking for a club for your child to join, contact the Chairman on 07970 659 562 or visit www.eastkentfc.co.uk

NEW

Boosting children’s self-esteem and life skills with Perform

classes now available

A common struggle shared by many children is lack of confidence. This can stop some children reaching their full potential. Perform is a unique drama school that uses drama, dance and singing to help all children achieve their true potential – even those that are shy and reserved.

“Perform is not a stage school” stresses Perform Producer, Karen. “It teaches life skills through fun drama games and end of term shows. The real aim of the classes is to help children develop the 4Cs: Confidence, Concentration, Coordination and Communication.

“Classes are small with both a Producer and a Teacher. Children are offered a free trial and the Producer spends time beforehand with each parent establishing their goals. For instance, speaking more clearly or making eye contact when introduced to someone unfamiliar.”

Producers report back to parents after each class on the focus of the week and answer questions about the progress of individual children.

“Shy children often come to classes clinging to their parents. I can pretty much guarantee that within 5 or 6 classes, they will run in without waving goodbye” reports Karen.

Perform offer no-obligation free trial sessions. Call 020 7255 9120 or visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book today.

Ashford St Mary’s Community Centre, TN24 9LH 4-7s, Tuesday 4pm, 7-12s, Tuesday 5pm *New class*

EVERY SATURDAY AT ST GEORGE’S SCHOOL For more information contact

Chairman Dave Marlow chairman@ekfc.co.uk 07970 659 562

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4-7s, Wednesday 4pm & 5pm

Herne Bay *New class venue* Herne Community Centre, CT6 7AP

4-7s, Wednesday 4pm & 5pm

Faversham West Faversham Community Centre, ME13 7RH 4-7s, Friday 4pm and 7-12s, Friday 5pm Folkestone St George’s Church, CT20 3QA 7-12s, Friday 5pm, 4-7s, Friday 4pm *New class*

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EAST KENT FC

Birchington *New class venue* Kearns Hall, CT7 9NN

www.eastkentfc.co.uk

Whitstable Horsebridge Community Centre, CT5 1AF 4-7s, Friday 4pm, 7-12s, Friday 5pm Families East Kent 5

Education news

Open Days at Junior King’s and The King’s School, Canterbury The King’s School, Canterbury and Junior King’s schools are steeped in history, their teaching methodologies are advanced, innovative and modern. Founded in 1879 as the preparatory school to The King’s School, Canterbury, Junior King’s expanded to the stunning eighty-acre countryside location at Milner Court in 1929. The Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep departments at Junior King’s provide a very happy, caring and nurturing environment for pupils with the majority moving on to The King’s School, Canterbury, Britain’s oldest day and boarding school at the end of Year 8.

The Nursery at St Lawrence College smaller and more exclusive At a time when many nurseries are expanding their numbers and opening their doors to more children, St Lawrence College in Ramsgate has changed its Nursery to become smaller, more exclusive and more personal.

The remodelled Nursery offers a modern, calm and focussed classroom environment balanced with plenty of fresh air, muddy knees, creativity and messy play. Kindness and respect are considered important and, with a freshly-prepared hot lunch available with every session, children are also taught good table manners. The Nursery curriculum focusses on developing core literacy and numeracy skills alongside the school’s established outdoor adventures’ programme.

Head of the Junior School, Ellen Rowe, says: “Having an experienced Early Years’ Qualified Teacher in the Nursery ensures that every child in our care receives the very best start to their academic school life. With a smaller number of children there are more opportunities for one-to-one learning, giving pupils a real head start before they move up to Reception.”

Find out why more and more local families are turning to private education and choosing St Lawrence College. Established in 1879, the school provides a high quality education for boys and girls aged 3 to 18 years in a welcoming, family-focussed community with acres of outdoor space and unbeatable facilities.

If you are looking for a school place for your child, book an Open Day tour of the Nursery, Junior or Senior School at St Lawrence College: Junior School: Fri 5 Oct and Senior School: Sat 6 Oct. www.slcuk.com

Free Magazines for your school, nursery, cafe, shop or club - just ask! editor@familieseastkent.co.uk or 07789 882467 East Kent

6 Families East Kent

Open days are an ideal occasion to explore the opportunities on offer at Junior King’s and The King’s School for your son or daughter. The schools offer natural entry points at Pre-Prep, and years 3, 5, 7 at Junior King’s and years 9 & 12 at King’s and welcome enquiries for both day and boarding pupils.

Scholarships and generous bursaries are available for talented pupils. For more information about Junior King’s call 01227 714000 or visit www.junior-kings.co.uk and The King’s School call 01227 595501 or visit www.kings-school.co.uk

Think Differently.

Think Dover College for exceptional independent nursery and junior education The Junior School at Dover College offers boys and girls aged 3 – 11 a unique education, with a creative curriculum and forward-thinking approach to individual learning and academic results.

Competitively priced nursery education, with 30 hours of funded provision to those eligible, is available within the early years setting. Here, children develop an understanding of phonics and numeracy from the age of three and like their peers in Years 1-6, benefit from specialist PE, music and language lessons.

Early years and junior pupils take advantage of superb facilities, and the spacious and stimulating indoor and outdoor learning environment within the beautiful and secure Dover College campus.

More than a third of parents think homework is unhelpful According to a recent Ofsted report, more than a third of parents said homework isn’t helpful to their children in primary school.

Many parents said homework was a huge cause of stress for the whole family and had a negative impact on home life.

Nearly three quarters of parents thought allowing children more time at school to plan and get ready for lessons through research was a better alternative to homework.

Parents gave some very clear messages about homework, both negative and positive.

Those who spoke positively said that homework enables them to feel part of their child’s learning and that it helps them to support that learning with other activities, such as visits to museums and home projects. The discipline, planning and time management skills that homework gives children were welcomed and homework was viewed as a way of promoting independent learning.

More information available at www.gov.uk/government/publications/ofsted-parentspanel familiesonline.co.uk

Independent School Open Days

Ashford School

East Hill, Ashford, TN24 8PB 01233 625171 Thurs 27 September, Prep School Open Day Fri 14 & Tues 25 September, Senior School Open Day

Dover College

Effingham Crescent, Dover, CT17 9RH 01304 244 522 admissions@dovercollege.org.uk Saturday 29 September - Whole School Open Morning, 10am - 1pm

Making the best of school 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?

Junior King’s on a Saturday. All schools 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.

School open days help you decide what Tips for visiting an open day school you want your child to go to. During an open day, prospective parents are shown • Take your child with you. There is no around the school, often on a school day, to point in falling in love with a school only give them a flavour of the working life of the to find your child does not want to go school and the school environment. You will there. be able to see the children in lesson and talk • What is your general feeling about to the teachers and pupils. the school? Your gut reaction is very important. Do Sometimes pupils are given the task of showing parents around the school. This is • the pupils look happy and engaged? a great opportunity to ask them how they enjoy being at the school. How settled, • Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Make relaxed and confident these children are sure you ask the pupils what they think of can give you an idea of how happy the the school. children are there. Usually, the head teacher • Don’t make decisions on individual or a senior member of staff also gives a teachers. They often move on and large talk which includes a general overview of departments have a variety of teachers the school and its values and ethos. This is that will rotate every year to teach your often followed by a presentation by the head child a particular subject. of admissions or the relevant head of the section of the school (for example, head of • If your child has a particular interest reception, or sixth form). in a subject, make sure you visit the department and look at the kind of work When are they held? they will be doing.

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 schools you are most interested in with your child the following year.

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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?

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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.

Independent schools often hold Open Days throughout the Autumn and Spring terms.

They can have waiting lists for Receptionage 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.

If, after the all your initial visits, you are still undecided, go back and visit the schools on your shortlist again during a normal working day.

How are open days organised?

Schools organise Open Evenings as well as days to allow working parents to visit the school too. Some schools (mainly independent) hold Open Days familiesonline.co.uk

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. If your child is older, do take account of their preferences too and include them in the decision making process.

The best decision will undoubtedly be the one you all agree.

Milner Court, Canterbury, CT2 0AY 01227 714000 office@junior-kings.co.uk Saturday 13 October Open Morning

Kent College Canterbury

Canterbury, CT2 9AQ 01227 762436 Sat 29 September - Senior school Open Morning 9am - 12.30pm

Northbourne Park School

Betteshanger, Deal, CT14 0NW 01304 611 215 admissions@northbournepark.com Saturday 6 October, 9.30am - 12.30pm

Spring Grove School

Harville Road, Wye, TN25 5EZ 01233 812337 office@springgroveschool.co.uk Early October - whole School Open Morning

St Edmund’s School Canterbury St Thomas’ Hill, Canterbury, CT2 8HU 01227 475600 info@stedmunds.org.uk Saturday 6 October Whole School Open Day

St Lawrence College

College Road, Ramsgate, CT11 7AE 01843 808080 info@slcuk.com Friday 5 October, Junior School Open Day, 9.30am - 12pm & 1.30-3pm Saturday 6 October, Senior School Open Day, 10.30am - 2pm

The Duke of York’s Royal Military School

Dover, CT15 5EQ 01304 245023 admin.office@doyrms.com Saturday 6 October, Open Morning 9am - 12 noon

The King’s School

Canterbury, CT1 2ES 01227 595501 Saturday 22 September - Sixth Form Entry Saturday 6 October - 13+ Entry

Wellesley House School

114 Ramsgate Road, Broadstairs, CT10 2DG office@wellesleyhouse.net 01843 862991 Please call the school to arrange a tour.

Families East Kent 7

Independent or state education for your child?

Olivia Malaure talks to Frances Delaney, a parent whose child has experienced both types of school.

If you are fortunate enough to be able to choose where your child will go to school, then it might help to look at the bigger picture and leap forward twelve years.

Has your daughter experienced more academic pressure at her new school?

Recent statistics show that students from state schools out-perform students from independent (private) schools at university.

However, before you allocate your tuition fees to more leisurely pursuits, consider that these statistics also show that students from independent schools are more likely to gain a place at university in the first place.

Right now, the idea of your young child reaching university age may seem unimaginable, but it pays to do your research early. And, when you do, it’s hard to ignore the fiery discussion about the moral, financial and practical issues that catapult from any search engine as you try to weigh up the ‘pros and cons’ of state versus independent education.

I spoke to Frances Delaney, a parent who made the decision to move her daughter from a state to an independent school at the beginning of Year 6.

Why did you make this change?

Firstly, I wasn’t confident that my daughter would get into our preferred, local state secondary school. I also wanted her to attend a school with an integrated sixth form, rather than have to transition to a large college later on. Crucially though, my daughter’s teacher, who I really respected, suggested she was playing up in class and was possibly bored because in Year 5, along with a number of other children, she’d actually reached Year 6 grades. I wanted my child to reach her full potential but her teacher couldn’t help further as her priority had to be improving the grades of those children who were under-performing.

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Was it an easy decision?

No actually, it was very difficult. My partner was politically opposed to private education - we both went to state schools. But we’d had the experience of our elder son completing his education at a large state college where he just didn’t “fit in.” He felt he didn’t do as well as he could have done at a smaller private school. It took my partner a lot of convincing, but I wanted our daughter to have the best educational experience possible and my gut feeling was that she would perform better at an independent school. We were in a position where we could afford the fees and so we decided to move her.

Looking back, do you feel you made the right decision?

That’s a difficult question and I don’t have a definitive answer. She is happy and confident and doing well at school, so that is very positive. She is still in touch with her friends from state school and it seems they’re also happy and doing well too, so it’s hard to tell what would have happened had she remained in the state sector.

Yes, and the pressure comes from both parents and the school. But, truthfully, I’m paying to ensure that she reaches her full potential and so pressure is part of that. My daughter thrives in that type of environment but I can see that it could be stressful for children who aren’t meeting expectations, or who excel in one particular subject area rather than being an academic all-rounder. Having said I would imagine that children in good state secondary schools are also under a lot of academic pressure too.

At my daughter’s school, there is not an automatic entry into the sixth form so there is constant discussion about what she can achieve and how she will achieve it. Obviously, this isn’t the case in all independent schools.

Do you have any advice for parents who are having difficulty making a decision between a good local state school and a private school?

Look at the environment in which your child thrives and explore how they learn. Think about how they would deal with regular tests and exams. If they are at senior school level, find out what subjects are on offer in the sixth form, and if they are in line with your child’s interests.

Some state schools offer a wider variety of subjects than some smaller private schools with limited more resources. The advantage of an independent primary school is that you are training your child for the private system and this training has its advantages. In my opinion the kids who are attending independent schools are not better or brighter, just more prepared.

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Walking & running Cycling Play area Archery Fossil hunting Geocaching Shelter building Forest school Obstacle course Military-style fitness

SURVIVAL JUNIOR 6 October Pumpkin Carving 26 – 28 October Vampire Vanquish 25 – 27 October Open Air Cinema: Coco 3 November

Come and find us betteshanger-park.co.uk #betteshanger Sandwich Road, Deal

FO R B OOK I NG S OR M O R E IN FO G IV E US A CA LL TO DAY!

Tel: 0 1 3 0 4 6 1 3 0 2 2 enquiries@baypointsportsclub.co.uk WWW.B AYPOINTSPO RTSC LUB .C O.U K Email:

Ramsgate Road, Sandwich, Kent CT13 9QL

Betteshanger Park

28917J1 Betteshanger October Events 87x130mm AW.indd 1

The Hope Tree Counselling & Consultancy Ltd Presents Family Matters Workshop Maintaining a healthy you (looking after your mental health)

03/08/2018 12:28

The secret to success is…

sharing your child’s reading journey Regular deliveries of books at your child’s reading level.

Saturday 13 October 10am - 1pm Centrepiece, Bank Street, Ashford, TN23 1BA

£7 includes lunch and notes Spaces are limited. Booking Required Crèche provided For more information or to book contact The Hope Tree Call 07444299575/ 07920428324 Email info@myhopetree.org.uk

www.myhopetree.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

www.readingchest.co.uk Book Rental for Children Learning to Read Families East Kent 9

My kids can’t eat that!

Tackling food allergies and intolerances If your child suffers with any type of food reaction, you are not alone. The latest surveys estimate that true food allergies affect up to 8% of children. Between 1997 and 2007, the number of reported cases of food allergy in children increased by 18%. In a similar timeframe, peanut allergy more than tripled in those under age 18, going from 0.4% in 1997 to 1.4% in 2008.

This does also not take into account the number of children with food sensitivities and intolerances, coeliac disease (an autoimmune condition triggered by eating food containing gluten) or related atopic conditions such as asthma, eczema and allergic rhinitis.

What is a food allergy?

An allergy occurs when your immune system responds aggressively to a harmless environmental substance. This can include foods but also things like pollen, animal dander, dust, mould. nickel, copper, and latex.

These allergens can affect various parts of the body and cause a range of symptoms which may affect: the nasal passage (itchy, stuffy and/or runny nose, postnasal drip); the mouth area (tingling sensation, swollen mouth and lips, itchy throat); the eyes (swollen, itchy, red eyes); respiratory (wheezing, coughing, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath); the skin (hives, rashes, swelling); and gastrointestinal (stomach cramps, vomiting, diarrhoea).

10 Families East Kent

By Christine Bailey

Top 14 major allergens identified on food packaging The following are the 14 major allergens identified on UK and European packaging, by law. You will often see these highlighted in bold on the ingredients list.

Symptoms can occur from minutes to days after exposure, ranging from mild to severe.

Different types of food allergy trigger different types of immune response.

A true food allergy is known as an IgE-mediated food allergy. This can be associated with anaphylaxis, a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Many people prone to anaphylaxis carry self-injecting epinephrine pens in case of emergencies.

•

Celery (including celeriac)

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Cereals containing gluten (wheat, barley, rye, oats, spelt, kamut)

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Crustacea (such as crabs, crayfish, lobster and prawns)

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Egg

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Fish

•

Lupin

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Milk (including lactose)

•

The most common food allergies in children are:

Molluscs (such as cockles, mussels and oysters)

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Mustard

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cow’s milk

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Peanuts

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eggs

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Sesame

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fish and shellfish

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peanuts

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Soybeans

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soybeans (and related products)

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Sulphur dioxide and sulphites

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tree nuts (e.g. almonds, pistachios, hazelnuts, walnuts, cashews, pecans, Brazils, macadamia nuts)

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Tree nuts (almond, Brazil nut, cashew, hazelnut, pecan, pistachio, macadamia nut, walnut)

•

wheat and gluten containing grains (barley, rye) familiesonline.co.uk

If you are concerned about your child’s diet, ask your GP to refer you to a nutritionist or dietician to guide you through a new meal plan and recommend nutritional supplements.

Immune supporting foods

Testing If you do suspect your child may be reacting to certain foods, speak to your GP about allergy testing. Depending on the suspected type of reaction, tests may involve skin prick tests or blood tests. In some cases, you will be referred to an allergy clinic to undertake these tests. If certain foods are identified, it is essential these are completely removed from the diet. You will also need to avoid cross contamination with these foods when not eating at home.

Nutritional support One of the concerns many parents have when their child is diagnosed with a food reaction is what they can eat and how to ensure they are getting the required nutrients.

Fortunately, there are now many supermarket free-from products available for easy substitutions. Some are fortified with certain vitamins and minerals. For instance, many milk alternatives contain added vitamin D and calcium to support bone health. Remember though, that just because a product is free-from does not mean it is healthy. Many free-from products are highly refined and nutrient poor and can upset a child’s blood-sugar levels. Prepared foods, such as free-from breads, can be useful, but cooking from scratch is the healthiest and safest option.

Supporting the health of your child’s immune system is important since it is the imbalance in the immune response that triggers their allergy. This means looking at your child’s digestive health since over 70% of the immune cells lie in the gut and probiotic supplements and fermented foods like yogurts (coconut or dairy), kefir (coconut or dairy), sauerkraut, water kefir, kombucha and kimchi are often recommended. They may not all be tolerated by your child but consider including some daily. Children also need plenty of fibre to support gut health. Avoid white refined foods and include plenty of starchy vegetables (carrots, sweet potato, potato, beetroot, yams) and some wholegrains like rice or oats.

In addition, healthy fats, particularly the essential omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats (found in avocado, olives and nuts) reduce inflammation and help modulate the immune response and support gut health. So, if your child can eat fish, aim to serve it 2 or 3 times a week, especially oily fish (salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines). These also provide vitamins A and D which are important for a healthy immune system.

Christine Bailey is the author of My Kids Can’t Eat That: How to Deal with Allergies and Intolerances in Children (Nourish Books 2018). It contains details on useful herbs, spices and foods to support immune health, specific foods that can help lower histamine and reduce the symptoms of allergic reaction and a wealth of great substitute foods for all the common food allergens.

Having a food allergy does not mean your child will miss out on their favourite foods. There are many savvy ways to replace common allergen foods with alternatives in your cooking.

Take eggs for example – these can be replaced with various alternatives in many recipes.

Cooking Swaps

In baking, you can replace one egg with any of the following: •

1 tbsp agar flakes soaked in 2 tbsp hot water to dissolve

•

4 tbsp drained liquid from a can of chickpeas (known as aquafaba)

•

60g of apple puree

•

•

½ a mashed banana

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1 tbsp chia seeds soaked in 3 tbsp water for 10 minutes before use

1 tbsp ground flaxseed soaked in 3 tbsp water for 10 minutes before using

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2 tbsp chickpea flour in 3 tbsp water

60g Greek yogurt, coconut yogurt or soy yogurt

•

2 tbsp potato flour, arrowroot or cornflour with a little water

•

familiesonline.co.uk

Help protect children from bugs, colds and other nasties this term With the kids starting back to school, this first term is officially the worst for catching bugs especially for those starting in reception. Julie Clark, a Nutritional Therapist and a Riverford Organic Farmers customer offers three simple ways you can help boost their immune system: Sleep Sleep is incredibly important as this is when the body is growing, repairing and rejuvenating itself. Insufficient sleep reduces the immune system. Help your children get the enough sleep; for a child in reception year needs 10 - 13 hours and for ages 6-13 needs 9 to 11 hours.

Diet The most important nutrients for the immune system are vitamins A, C, D & E, the minerals iron, zinc and selenium plus essential fats and good bacteria. You can ensure your children get lots of these by offering fresh organic food including two servings of fresh fruit and five servings of vegetables a day. Offer three types of vegetables for dinner (include green leafy ones for iron). Snack on seeds as they contain many nutrients and eating live yoghurt contains good bacteria, this is vital for the gut and immune system, plus aim to have at least one portion of oily fish a week. Having a regular organic fruit and veg box delivered to your home from Riverford ensures a constant supply whilst buying direct from the farmer.

Hydration Water is important to health, energy and the immune system. Every single cell in the body is surrounded by water. It is so important that even being a little dehydrated can reduce performance by 30%. Encourage your children to drink plenty of water.

Riverford has small, medium or large veg boxes that are always 100% organic, either weekly, fortnightly, or as and when needed, with or without fruit, meat and dairy.

To place an order or for lots of inspirational recipe ideas visit their website www.riverford.co.uk/ash

Families East Kent 11

WHAT’S ON Your essential guide to family events this September and October. We take great care in compiling our events guide, but check with the venues before you leave home just in case times or prices have changed since we went to print.

To promote your local event, nearly new sale, theatre shows or community event in the next what’s on guide please email editor@familieseastkent.co.uk Throughout Sept & Oct Explorer Trail Westgate Parks, St. Peter’s Street, Canterbury, CT1 2BQ Pick up an Explorer Trails from the Westgate Towers Museum or the Beaney Library and join Julius the roman soldier on a voyage of discovery through the Westgate Parks. £2.50 (including crayons).

Throughout Sept & Oct Baby Rhymetime Local libraries across East Kent Songs, nursery rhymes and fun for all at libraries across the region for 0 - 4 years and all events are free.

Please check with the library before visiting as some sessions may not run during school holidays.

Every Monday NCT Drop-in Antenatal Exercise Barton Court Church Canterbury, CT1 Relax, stretch and breathe. Call 07831 615 998 for details. 6.308pm.

Every Tuesday NCT Mother and Baby Yoga Lower Hardres Village Hall Canterbury, CT4 5NP Mother and Baby yoga postnatal drop in every tuesday morning. £8 per session or £30 for a batch of 4 sessions. 11am-12:30pm.

Every Thursday NCT Bumps & Babies Westgate Hall Canterbury CT1 2BT Group for expectant mums and parents with babies or children under three. Refreshments are available from the Cafe and some toys will be provided for children.

12-2pm.

Every Saturday (term time only) Saturday Mornings Art Club Espression Interactive Arts Café Canterbury, CT1 2DZ A creative arts club for primary aged children 5 - 11 year olds, to try out different art and craft techniques, learn new skills and make new friends. Booking required. Call 01227 765665. 10am - 12noon Every Sunday Junior Park Run Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF A free 2k junior park run takes place every Sunday morning at 9am and is suitable for ages 4 - 14 years. Pre-register at www. parkrun.org.uk/betteshangerjuniors 12 Families East Kent

Every Sunday Betteshanger Bikers Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF Join Betteshanger Bikers weekly cycle club for young mountain bikers. Get expert coaching, learn awesome cycling skills and take part in fun and exciting games from our British Cycling qualified coaches. Ages 8–14. 10–11.30am.

Until 28 October Triumphant Women Smallhythe Place Tenterden, TN30 7NG Exploring women’s history and suffrage through the anniversary of women gaining the vote. The new exhibition Triumphant Women will be on display at Smallhythe Place celebrating the women of Smallhythe in the Suffrage movement, Normal admission applies. 11am - 5pm Sunday 2, 16 & 30 September Learn to Ride (beginners) Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF Learn to Ride sessions are perfect for those who have never ridden a bike before, those who are ready to move on from stabilisers or those looking to build confidence.

British Cycling qualified coaches will teach the basics of balancing, pedalling and confidence on the bike. Games will be used to test newly learnt skills in a fun and informative manner. 12-1pm. £14.

6 - 9 & 13 - 16 September Heritage Open Day Dickens House Museum Broadstairs, CT10 1QS Dickens House Museum celebrates Charles Dickens long connection with the seaside town of Broadstairs. The museum holds a fascinating collection of items associated with Dickens, and with his time in Broadstairs, including writing tools, letters, and publications, as well as a wider collection of items relating to the history of Broadstairs.

7 September - 15 October The Friendly Scarecrow Trail Canterbury Cathedral Canterbury, CT1 2EH Take a stroll around the Precincts to find the Harvest Festival scarecrows. Donations to the Canterbury Food Bank are encouraged and may be left at collection points in The Precincts on the day you visit. This is a Family Friends of Canterbury Cathedral event and is open to all.

8 September Mum2Mum Market Canterbury St John’s Church of England Primary School Canterbury CT1 1BD Indoor nearly new sale with everything maternity, baby and kids from age 0-6 including designer prams, cots, bouncers, nappy bins, sterilisers, baby mobiles, toys, clothes, books.

Adults £2, kids free. 9:30-11:30am 8 September Family Days; Ocean Life Dover Museum, Dover, CT16 1PH Family days at Dover Museum are fun for children of all ages. All children must be accompanied by an adult during the activity. 10am 8 & 9 September The Craft Fair Quex Park, Birchington, CT7 0BH Visit the Craft Village and enjoy the huge array of unique crafts and gifts and Local Kentish food and drink. Entertainment, a beer tent, BBQ and refreshments, outdoor children’s play area and lots more. 10am - 4pm.

8 & 9 September Heritage Open Day Dover Museum Family Day Dover, CT16 1PH See the world’s oldest known seagoing boat from the Bronze Age! Dover Museum will be putting on lots of other cross Channel themed activities, to keep everyone entertained. 10am - 5pm.

8 & 9 September Belmont Woodfest & Country Fair Belmont House Faversham, ME13 0HH Exciting woodland demonstrations taking place over the weekend including chainsaw carving, pole lathe turning, willow weaving, bushcraft and more. Also craft making activities, creepy claws animal display, climbing wall and boulder for the children to enjoy.

Music, entertainment, local foods, craft stalls and a great family day out. 10am - 5pm.

8 & 9 September Medieval Falconry Dover Castle Castle Hill, Dover, CT16 1HU Gaze skywards in awe as hawks and falcons soar above the castle.

Discover the art of training, exercising and hunting with birds and hear the stories and legends from medieval times. 10am - 5pm.

9 September Toy Fair The King’s Hall Herne Bay, CT6 6BA Come and browse over 70 tables selling trains, cars, soldiers, Star Wars, plus lots more old, new and collectable toys on the day!

There’ll also be a vintage train layout on display. 10am - 2pm. £2 adults, kids free 15 & 16 September Heritage Open Day Powell-Cotton Museum, House and Gardens, Birchington, CT7 0BH Quex Park is home to the PowellCotton Museum and the PowellCotton family’s extraordinary collection of natural history, ethnography and fine and decorative arts. You can also step back into the world of Victorian horticulture by exploring the beautiful gardens. 10am - 5pm.

Free entry to the museum and gardens on both dates.

15 - 22 September Sandwich Arts Week Various Locations Sandwich, CT13 A week long exhibition of over 40 local artists in St Peter’s church and in addition at various locations around the Town Trail. familiesonline.co.uk

18 - 23 September Gruffalo’s Child Gulbenkian Theatre Canterbury, CT2 7NB Tall Stories returns, bringing Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s award-winning sequel to life in this magical, musical adaptation.

Songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3+ 22 September Three Little Pig Tales Folkestone Quarterhouse Folkestone, CT20 1BN A brand new version of the classic story of the three little pigs set in Paris. Garlic Theatre entertain the whole family with beautifully crafted puppets, music and a garlicky French twist to the tale.

Ages 3 - 7. Adults £6, Children £5.

2.30pm.

22 & 23 September Day out with Thomas Kent & East Sussex Railway Tenterden, TN30 6HE Meet Thomas and The Fat Controller, take a train ride and enjoy so much more.

23 September See The Gruffalo Kent Life, Maidstone, ME14 3AU The Gruffalo makes a return to Kent Life following the success of his previous visit. The magical monster will be making personal appearances at 10.40am, 12pm, 1.20pm, 2.40pm & 4pm.

28 - 30 September Broadstairs Food Festival Victoria Parade, Broadstairs, CT10 1JP A popular three day food festival features a range of Thanet and Kentish foods. This amazing festival is great for all the family: try out new tastes, new flavours; meet the producers - then stock up with loads of lovely goodies.

Free.

Sunday 30 September Family Fun Run Leeds Castle Maidstone, ME17 1PL Fun for all the family! Join us for the new Leeds Castle Fun Run, where the whole family can enjoy a 2km run around the grounds.

1 - 28 October Autumn Colour Hever Castle & Gardens Edenbridge, TN8 7NG As the gardens turn vibrant shades of red, pink and gold and the leaves tumble from the trees, it’s the perfect time to enjoy autumn colour at Hever Castle & Gardens.

6 October Open Air Drive in Cinema Night Baypoint Sports Club Sandwich CT13 9QL See their website for full details and ticket information.

Don’t forget to say you saw these events in Families East Kent Magazine familiesonline.co.uk

6 & 7 October The Craft & Gift Fair Kings Hall Herne Bay, CT6 5BA Visit the Craft Village and enjoy the huge array of unique crafts & gifts and Local Kentish food & drink. Entertainment from the fantastic Cadet Band, a beer tent, BBQ & refreshments, outdoor children’s play area and lots more.

10am - 4pm.

13 October Scarecrow Trail Westgate Parks Canterbury, CT1 2BQ Members of the public, local schools and businesses have created scarecrows of all shapes and sizes. Follow them on a trail through the Westgate Parks and don’t forget to vote for your favourite! Make some scarecrow crafts to take home for £2 per person. 10am. Pick up your trail map for £1.50 (includes a voting slip) from the Friends of Westgate Parks’ stand in the Westgate Gardens.

13 October Parenting Workshop: Maintaining a healthy you The Hope Tree Counselling Centrepiece, Ashford, TN231BA The Hope Tree is a not-for-profit organisation, set up in Ashford in 2015 it aims to provide a holistic support service to children and their families. This workshop is for parents and carers. £7 includes lunch. Creche provided. Booking required call 07444299575.

10am - 1pm.

13 & 14 October Apple Festival Brogdale Farm Faversham, ME13 8XZ Visit Brogdale for a breathtaking display of apple varieties. Guided tours of the orchards, horticultural talks, apple pressing and demonstrations. 10am - 5pm.

can come in the most unexpected shapes and sizes. Adult £6, Children £5. Age 5+. 11am & 2pm.

14 & 28 October Learn to Ride (beginners) Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF 12noon - 1pm. £14.

20 - 22 & 26 - 28 October Themed Games Events The Micro Museum Ramsgate Kent CT11 8RA There will be (videogame) dragons and other magical beasties at the Museum for two weekends. 1-4pm.

21 October The Missing Light Gulbenkian Theatre Canterbury, CT2 7NB Using puppetry, music, film and live animation Make Mend and Do create a story that is both moving and technically stunning in equal measures. Ages 7+. 2pm 23 October The Magic Word The Marlowe Theatre Canterbury, CT1 2AS Children will be enchanted by the magical ballet dancers, stunning costumes and crystal clear storytelling. With themes of kindness, good manners and friendship, this is a heart-warming tale for all ages. 11.30am & 1.30pm. £10.25.

24 October Yana & The Yeti Folkestone Quarterhouse Folkestone, CT20 1BN Featuring exquisite music, Arctic landscapes and a cast of extraordinary puppets, Yana and the Yeti is a dark, funny and poignant tale of a small child’s determination to be understood and her discovery that friends

Haunt the great outdoors this Autumn at Betteshanger Park Betteshanger Park, built on the spoil heap of the former Betteshanger Colliery, offers outstanding leisure and recreational facilities; miles of traffic-free cycling, muddy mountain bike trails; plus woodland, grassland and marshland to explore. There’s a programme of lively outdoor activities, including archery, geocaching, fossil hunting and a military-style obstacle course.

The calendar is packed with a wide range of seasonal events including; Junior Survival on 6 October, Kent’s military obstacle course race is opening its muddy doors for juniors for the first time this year. The 2.5km junior course, for fearless 8–15 years olds involves running, jumping, swinging, wading and crawling through some epic natural and manmade obstacles around the old spoil heap at Betteshanger.

Pumpkin Carving from 26–28 October. Save your kitchen from getting messy and carve some gruesome creations. There is Vampire Vanquish from 25–27 October, armed with bows and ‘antidote-dipped’ arrows, help Trudy Helsing, cure the escaped bats and Vampires of ‘The Thirst’.

A fun and fast Archery TAG-based activity set in Betteshanger’s dark woodland. Suitable for ages 10 and over.

25 October The Tale of the Cockatrice The Marlowe Theatre Canterbury, CT1 2AS Multi-award-winning Mumblecrust Theatre present two muddleheaded storytellers, an obscure British legend, breathtaking puppetry and spine-tingling live music. Ages 7 - 12 years. 12pm & 3pm. £10.25.

Sat 27 October The Craft & Gift Fair Dover Town Hall, Dover, CT16 1DL Visit the Craft Village and enjoy the huge array of unique crafts & gifts and Local Kentish food & drink. Entertainment from the fantastic Cadet Band, a beer tent, BBQ & refreshments, outdoor children’s play area and lots more.

10am - 4pm.

28 October Snow White, Rose Red, Bear Brown Gulbenkian Theatre Canterbury, CT2 7NB Theatre of Widdershins presents puppets, storytelling, original music and a fantastical fairytale forest. Ages 5+. 2pm. £1 - £8.

3 November Open Air Cinema: Coco Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF Pack a comfy chair, a blanket and a hamper. Sit back, popcorn in hand; relax and enjoy an alternative cinema experience under the stars.

FIREWORKS DISPLAYS 3 November Marvel-ous Fireworks Quex Park Birchington, CT7 0BH Marvel Characters, Iron Man, Hawkeye, Thor, Captain America and others will be on site and available for photographs. Fun Fair, food and drinks, gift and crafts. Ticket only event.

3 & 4 November Fireworks Spectacular Leeds Castle Maidstone, ME17 1PL Two nights of spectacular displays set to the theme of ‘Dancing’.

With moving images, music and incredible fireworks over the historic Castle. Adult £23, Child £15, under 4’s free.

5 November Broadstairs Fireworks Victoria Gardens and Viking Bay, Broadstairs See a fantastic firework display in the skies of Broadstairs. Children’s funfair rides, glow novelties and entertainment.

www.betteshanger-park.co.uk Families East Kent 13

23 October Half Term Beastie Day Brogdale Farm Faversham, ME13 8XZ A full day of exploring Brogdale and discovering fantastic bugs and mini beasts. Book your Live Bug Show time and spend the whole day exploring the orchards, discovering bugs and have lots of fun. Ticket event only. 10am - 3pm.

24 October Halloween Crafts Smallhythe Place Tenterden, TN30 7NG

Grab your broomsticks, hats and cloaks and get ready for an afternoon of spooky Arts and Crafts at Smallhythe Place. Join us from 1-3pm where we will be making Halloween crafts for you to decorate your home.

Come dressed in your scariest Halloween costume, the best dressed wins a prize! Ages 0-8. 1-3pm. Free but normal admission applies.

HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR

It’s one of the best times of the year for children, but how can you help your child get into the spirit of Halloween? We’ve complied a list of the best local events to enjoy at the spookiest time of the year!

20 - 28 October Halloween Spooktacular Kent Life Maidstone, ME14 3AU

A spooky week full of family fun and games. There’s pumpkin carving, creepy cuddle corner, spooky farm rides and daily fancy dress competitions. Are you brave enough to come along and trick or treat in our historic houses? 10am - 5pm.

20 - 28 October Haunted Castle Dover Castle Castle Hill, Dover, CT16 1HU 20 - 28 October Haunted Halloween Hever Castle & Gardens Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

Treat the kids to a spine-tingling programme of entertainment over the half term break with prizes for the best Halloween costumes.

Creepy craft workshops, awesome activities and a spooky trail to follow in the grounds. The theme for this year is Haunted Hever.

Feeling brave enough to take on Kent’s most haunted castle? Prepare to be scared this autumn half-term as a frighteningly fun day out awaits you. 10am - 4pm.

20 - 28 October Spooky Half Term Penshurst Place Tonbridge, TN11 8DG

Unravel ridiculous riddles and rambunctious rhymes during their Halloween Garden Trail.

Pick Your Own Pumpkins Saffery Farm Faversham, ME13 9QN

Pick Your Own m - 4pm.

Ashford, TN25 7HX, 10a order a Did you know you can for at gre s kin box of pump

m fro th wi ing ok co Riverford Organic Farmers? www.riverford. co.uk/ash 14 Families East Kent

22 - 28 October Wacky Witches and Wizards Leeds Castle Maidstone, ME17 1PL

This Halloween Half Term answer a riddle to find our wacky witches and wizards around the Castle grounds and listen carefully to their spooky tales as you will need to answer a question in order to complete your trail card and claim your chocolate reward. A fun new haunted trail will guide younger visitors through the Woodland Walk (small additional charge applies).

Find our characters hiding across the estate from 11am to 1pm and again from 2pm to 4pm. Lookout for Vinnie the Vampire, Gloria the Ghost and Frank Frankenstein amongst others!

At 12pm and 3pm, dance in the outdoor children’s ‘Monster Mash Ball’ and take part in the daily fancy dress competition at 2pm with prizes for the best costume. There will be lots of ghoulish games and frightening fun this half term.

25 October Family Days; Halloween Dover Museum Dover, CT16 1PH

Family days at Dover Museum are fun for children of all ages. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

10am - 3.30pm.

25 - 27 October Vampire Vanquish Betteshanger Park Deal, CT14 0BF Armed with bows and ‘antidotedipped’ arrows, help Trudy Helsing, great-great-great-grandniece of famed vampire slayer, Abraham Van Helsing, cure the escaped bats and Vampires of ‘The Thirst’.

A fun and fast Archery TAG-based activity set in Betteshanger’s dark woodland. Suitable for ages 10+.

26 October Fright Night Express Kent & East Sussex Railway Tenterden, TN30 6HE

Visit the railway from 5pm for a Fright Night workshop including pumpkin carving and face painting.

Families are encouraged to come in fancy dress, the scarier the better!

Spooky music will be accompanied by the beats of the Drumskullz and an amazing live Fire breather will add to the atmosphere before everyone boards the Fright Night

Halloween custard Your little ones will absolutely love this custard and chocolate spooky treat; perfect for a Halloween night in.

• •

What you will need ü Chocolate brownies (make your own or buy) ü Ready-made custard ü Mini marshmallows ü Chocolate buttons

How to make it: •

Begin by crumbling up the brownies into mini bite sized

•

•

pieces.

Pour the custard into a large bowl and drop two spoonfulls into the base of the serving bowl you are using.

Next, place a few of the brownie pieces into the glass on top of the base layer of custard, ensuring

Spooky treat idea

they go right against the edge for that layered look.

Spoon more custard into the bowl until it reaches the top.

Pop two mini marshmallows on each and place a chocolate drop in the middle of each marshmallow to make eyes.

Why not try?

Alternatively, you could make this dessert with banana custard or Angel Delight instead and use writing icing for the googly eyes.

familiesonline.co.uk

26 - 28 October Pumpkin Carving Betteshanger Park Deal, CT14 0BF

A firm favourite on the Betteshanger calendar. Save your kitchen from getting messy and carve some gruesome creations.

Express in time for a 7pm departure.

Children will receive a Munchbox during the journey. Upon arrival at Northiam Station enjoy a firework display before the return journey to Tenterden, which will arrive back at the station for approximately 8:45pm.

Fright Night fares: Tickets £18.

Booking is essential.

26 October Simple Simon’s New Halloween Adventure Margate Winter Gardens Margate, CT9 1HX Come and help Simon beat the ghosts and ghouls and experience some thrills and chills. 2pm. £7.50.

Ages 2 - 11.

26 - 28 October Quextreme Terror Quex Park Birchington, CT7 0BH

Within the eerie surroundings of Quex Park’s Forest Areas, Maize Field and Woodland Trails, we invite you to join us on a spine-chilling adventure like no other. If you are looking for an action packed night, filled with fun and fear this Halloween… then look no furtherjoin us for the ultimate Scare Park experience. Ages 12+ 6.30pm.

28 October Halloween Fun Belmont House Faversham, ME13 0HH

Enjoy a spooktacular family outing to Belmont this Halloween. Children can reveal their inner artist with pumpkin carving and creepy craft making with Lynsey of Creative Mash Ups. There will also be a spooky trail around our gardens for everyone to enjoy. £5 per child, £1 per adult. 10am - 3pm.

28 October Broadstairs Halloween Party The Pavilion, Broadstairs, CT10 1EU

Children’s Halloween Party for chlldren up to 11 years. Party Games and Music. Ticket only. Book in advance.

29 - 31 October Ghost Tour Deal Castle Marine Road, Deal, CT14 7BA Join us for a special Halloween evening ghost tour through Deal Castle. You will hear the strange experiences of those who work here and discover the myths and stories surrounding this atmospheric historic site. Tours at 6pm, 7.15pm & 8.30pm.

31 October Scary Scavenger Hunt and Creepy Crafts Westgate Parks Canterbury, CT1 2BQ

Take part in our scary scavenger hunt! Spooky things will be hidden around Toddler’s Cove and the Westgate Gardens, how many can you spot? Pick up your spotter sheet from the Friends of Westgate Parks information stand located at Toddler’s Cove and receive a small prize. Make some spooktacular halloween crafts to take home. £2 per person (accompanying adult free). Last trail maps at 3pm and crafts will finish at 3:30pm.

31 October Ghost Tours for Kids Maidstone Museum Maidstone, ME14 1LH

Dare you leave your parents behind and follow our storyteller to explore the museum’s creepy rooms?

Finish by icing your own gingerbread ghost! Suitable for ages 7–11 years.

First tour at 4pm, second tour at 5pm. Pre-book. £6.

Halloween with the National Trust You’ll find all the ingredients for a scary Hallowe’en adventure at many National Trust places.

Discover creaking staircases and secret doorways, go in search of ghoulish gargoyles and historical legends, or explore mystifying mazes and magical woods.

There are lots of activities taking place at our local National Trust properties including Knole Park, Ightham Mote, Scotney Castle and Emmett’s Garden. See their website for full details of all events, www.nationaltrust. org.uk.

Yummy

family recip e idea

Pumpkin bread This moist, lightly spiced bread can be treated as a savoury or cut in half and filled with cream cheese icing. You can add nuts (walnuts work especially well), substitute the nutmeg for other spices, or if you prefer simplicity, omit the raisins.

Preparation time 10 mins

Cooking time 40 mins

Serves 8 Ingredients 200g wholemeal flour 3 tsp baking powder 100g vegetable margarine 100g raw cane sugar

200g pumpkin, cooked 2-3 tbsp milk ½ tsp nutmeg, grated 75g raisins

Method Preheat oven to 180°C/Gas 4.

Sift the flour and baking powder. Cream the margarine and sugar together in a bowl. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and add to the creamed mixture.

Fold in the sifted ingredients and moisten with the milk. Stir in the nutmeg and raisins.

Spoon the mixture into a greased 2lb loaf tin and bake for 35-40 minutes.

For more recipies like this visit Riverford Organic Farmers website www.riverford.co.uk/ash familiesonline.co.uk 1986-Halloween-2018-87x130-Families-AW.indd 1

Families East Kent 15 02/07/2018 16:57

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