Families Sussex Coast Jan-Feb 2015 Issue 39

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Issue 39 : January / February 2015

Pick me up Brighton, Worthing ,Lewes, Littlehampton and everywhere in between!

www.familiessussexcoast.co.uk

Win tickets to Thorpe Park this Half Term

The really useful magazine and website for families with children

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Happy New Year from us all at Families Sussex Coast

editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Sussex Coast

Whats inside?

Welcome

to the January and February edition of Families Sussex Coast. Happy New Year, we hope you had a great Christmas break!

As always the magazine is jam packed with features, competitions, news and pages of what do to and where to go over the next two months. We have included a half-term page for you, to help you keep the children entertained or find holiday clubs if you are working. We also have some Thorpe Park tickets to give-away for over the half-term holiday. As always if there is anything you would like to see in Families Sussex Coast then please do not hesitate to contact us and we shall try and include it for you.

Lucy Families Sussex Coast covers: Brighton, Hove, Fontwell, Worthing, Arundel, Lewes, Hassocks,East Preston, Rustington,Littlehampton, Seaford and everywhere in between.

Next Issue March / April: Advertising & editorial deadline is 6th Feb 2015.

You can contribute to Families Sussex Coast through advertising, editorial and our What”s On pages. Contact Families Sussex Coast 01903 620257

editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

Design by Sanderswhite. Contact sue@sanderswhite.co.uk

What’s Inside 4 5 8 9

News - What is happening in Sussex?

Education News Sports News and Feature Clubs and Classes

10 Business Feature 12 New Year’s Resolutions..can you keep yours?

13 Half Term Listings..what’s happening in February half - term, plus Thorpe Park tickets to give away !

14 What’s On ..your local guide to what’s happening along the Sussex Coast Front Cover: Photonoodle.net

Prined by Warners Midlands Plc www.warners.co.uk Please recycle your copy of Families Sussex Coast when you have finished with it.

Copyright: Families Sussex Coast January 2015 .

Data protection: If you send us your name and address in order to receive free samples or to enter a competition, we may supply your details to the company offering the samples or prizes.

If you would prefer us NOT to do so, please state this clearly on your entry.

Disclaimer: We take care preparing this magazine but the publisher and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

Families Group: Families Sussex Coast is part of a group established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All magazines in the Group are independently owned and operated under licence.

01903 620257 Sussex Coast

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News

Elderflower Fields Festival

Photo credit - Sustrans

22nd to 25th May 2015

www.elderflowerfields.co.uk / facebook.com/ elderflowerfields / @elderflowerfest • Over 40 bands and performers on three stages • Urban Woods adventure sports, including climbing, parkour, skate ramp & more • Sports and arts camp sessions • Wildlife, environmental and creative workshops and activities • Storytelling & music workshops • The best locally sourced food and drink • Cocktail bar and local craft beers • So Sussex family picnic, included in the ticket price • Woodland Spa treatments & therapies

Sandy Balls Village Picture perfect memories waiting to be discovered......

Nestled in the breathtaking New Forest, Sandy Balls Holiday Village is perfect for families looking for a relaxing break or action packed adventure in the beautiful surroundings.

Set in a 120-acre estate, our award-winning, five star holiday village offers accommodation to suit all budgets. Open all year, there are opulent woodland lodges, cosy caravans, camping pods and fully-serviced touring pitches available for weekend, mid-week or a longer stays.

The village is a safe, friendly haven offering an idyllic setting to explore the outdoors with amazing walks, bike trails and great onsite facilities including indoor and outdoor pools, activities programme featuring crafts, bug hunts and archery, entertainment, restaurant and pub.

www.sandyballs.co.uk

editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Sussex Coast

launches biggest event programme for 2015 Amberley Museum is proud to announce their biggest ever programme, with over 50 events scheduled for 2015.

A magical weekend of adventure, discovery and inspiration designed especially for families with children in mind.

Eclectic music, camping with nature and great local food & drink, all set in the heart of the beautiful Sussex countryside.

Tickets are now on Sale Adult weekend tickets from £85 Child weekend tickets from £40 Under 5s go free More information:

Amberley Museum

UK’S BIGGEST SCHOOL CYCLING & SCOOTING COMPETITION RETURNS FOR 2015 The UKs largest inter-school cycling and scooting competition, The Big Pedal, is set to return in 2015 the charity Sustrans announced today.

The Big Pedal (March 2nd – 20th) is open to nurseries, primary and secondary schools and challenges them to compete against one another to make the most journeys to school by bike and scooter over 15 days.

Run by charity Sustrans and funded by the Bicycle Association on behalf of the cycle industry through its Bike Hub scheme, The Big Pedal has become the UK’s largest cycling and scooting competition.

Last year over 1,500 schools signed up to take part and pupils, teachers, parents, and siblings made over a million journeys (1,142,374) to school on their bikes and scooters in just 10 days.

By signing up to The Big Pedal schools will receive a wall-chart to record their progress, whilst a range of resources designed to support schools are available in the teachers section of the Sustrans website. Winning schools will receive prizes including bike and scooter stunt shows and equipment.

Registration for The Big Pedal 2015 is now open.

To register your school go to:

www.bigpedal.org.uk

Alongside established favourites such as the classic car summer show, railway gala and ale festival, we have a raft of new events.

These include a cobweb weekend to open the season, pottery festival and local villages weekend. Children’s activities are always popular and 2015 sees over 20 events aimed at the younger generation. On selected days the amazing Hawking About will be here, when you can get up close to their owls and birds of prey.

Ruth Dewdney, Communications Manager, said “A lot of local people last visited 10 to 15 years ago and a lot has changed at the Museum since then. We want people to come and see us and be inspired by what they can see and do.

Events offer the chance to experience something different at the Museum but also to look around our permanent exhibitions. There are new ones every year so if you haven’t visited in a while, there’ll be something new to discover.”

The Museum is home to a variety of traditional craftspeople, such as the wheelwrights and potters, with a café, gift shop and nature trails.

They are open from March to October and hold many events ranging from children’s activity days to classic vehicle shows and the ever popular.

Full details are at www.amberleymuseum.co.uk.

Education News

Pharmaton We all know what it’s like to feel physically and mentally exhausted from a busy day at work or with the kids and coping with everything can be an everyday battle.

Did you know that taking Pharmaton Vitality capsules helps reduce temporary tiredness and restore vitality when taken daily, and can be taken for a period of twelve weeks?

Pharmaton Vitality capsules are packed with vitamins, minerals and the unique Ginseng G115 that’s clinically proven to relieve fatigue and also aid mental and physical wellbeing.

Pharmaton Vitality capsules are also supported by over 30 clinical trials and studies.

Try Pharmaton Vitality Capsules, to feel the positive difference.

(Licensed medicine) For the relief of fatigue.

Always read the label ( Editorial supplied)

High fliers

The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts is taking their fantastic performing arts experience to Savannah Beach Hotel in Barbados this year.

In a unique collaboration with Virgin Holidays, children aged 4-16 will be able to sing, dance and act in PQA’s action packed workshops while you relax on the beach. ‘I’m really excited about working with Virgin Holidays on the launch of the Pauline Quirke Academy at Savannah Beach in Barbados,’ said Pauline Quirke. ‘Both parties know more than anyone how important it is to offer fun activities for young people while they are on their holidays, and our fabulous workshops do exactly that. Families will go away with some brilliant holiday memories as the sessions not only build young peoples’ confidence, but they also bring out the performer in everyone whilst enjoying the sunshine!’

Workshops have been skilfully crafted by PQA’s creative team which includes an educational element tied into the colourful history of the Caribbean, regaling tales of everything from local pirates to the ghosts of Savannah Beach, and culminating in a performance of their very own PQA show. The classes are free of charge to children staying at Savannah Beach.

Book at www.virginholidays.co.uk or call 0844 557 3859. Find your nearest Pauline Quirke Academy at www.pqacademy.com or call

Mathemagical Modelworld is proud to announce it will be part of the Brighton Science Festival in February half-term.

The festival takes place over the entire half-term week with many exciting activities across Brighton and Hove, which aim to create a spirit of discovery.

Mathemagical will be at the ‘Bright Sparks’ family fun day on Sunday 16th February at Hove Park Upper School where young children will be able to explore and play with exciting toys and resources (tickets on the door).

Mathemagical are also putting on some special ‘Science and Maths’ pre-school classes on Thursday 19th February for 2-4 year olds at All Saints Church Hall in Hove please pre-book at www.mathemagical.co.uk

MXT

are pleased to announce their brand new venue in Storrington!

Specialising in one-to-one swimming lessons MXT have been providing lessons to Sussex since 1990. The owner Marios’s unique and at the time groundbreaking techniques of swim instruction by 1:1 example has proved to be immensely successful, the teachers remain in the water at eye-level with the children, talking to them, maintaining continual eye-contact and submerging to watch how the child is interpreting the strokes and instructions under water. He now has 15 highly trained (the Mario way!) instructors and three swim venues in Storrington, Steyning and Chichester.

The Storrington site is easily accessible off the A24 and has reserved parking for customers.

They are also offering free (private/one-to-one) introductory lessons to new customers throughout January at the new venue.

To find out more please call Mario on 01903 532765 or 07944 237614 or visit

www.mxtswimschool.com

returns to Brighton in February 2015 for its 37th year!

The Brighton Centre is delighted to announce that the renowned Modelworld exhibition will be returning to the venue from Friday 20th to Sunday 22nd February 2015.

In addition to the usual collection of boats, planes & trains of all shapes and sizes, the 2015 exhibition will also feature Daleks, Lego models, the boating pool, dolls houses, circuses and fairground displays and a variety of trucks and tanks.

If that wasn’t enough, Sussex steam engineer extraordinaire Neil Gough, will be bringing his faithfully restored traction engine “Gigantic” to the Brighton Centre in a tribute to the fallen in World War 1. Throughout the exhibition the engine will do the job it was built for by hauling the huge Howitzer Field Gun and the crews living van through the streets of the city every day.

Another huge steam attraction will be the biggest ever display of five of the fifth full size steam railway locomotives that are usually hidden away at the strictly private Ingfield Light Railway near Horsham, a line that is managed by Bluebell Railway Manager Chris Knibbs & is located in the grounds of Ingfield Manor School.

Chris English, Joint Exhibition Manager of Brighton Modelworld, commented: “The 2015 show is set to be one of the best modelling exhibitions in the city to date and we really want to prove to families that there is something for everyone no matter their age.

We are obviously delighted that we have been going strong for 37 years and, most importantly, that the modelling industry is still alive and gaining popularity every year.

We look forward to welcoming both new and old faces to the exhibition and I hope all of our visitors enjoy the vast array of exhibits that we have on display.”

Tickets are available on the door or via

www.brightoncentre.co.uk

Prices – Adult £9.50, Child £5.50, Seniors £7.50 and Family (2 adults 2 children) £26

0845 6732 022

01903 620257 Sussex Coast

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Education News

Brighton & Hove’s only Spanish- Windlesham English Bilingual Nursery School and Nursery Exceptional care and education for your child plus their chance to learn a second language at no extra cost.

Watch your child grow and develop in our small, friendly and caring nursery.

Our highly qualified teachers help children to gain self confidence, learning through imaginative, multi-sensory and creative activities whilst speaking Spanish & English.

La Casita offers bilingual Spanish-English childcare (Ofsted registered) for children aged between 6 months and 5 years.

We are open Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm and provide funded places for 2, 3 and 4 year olds. We also accept a range of work place vouchers.

La Casita operates from spacious and secure detached buildings in Lawrence Road, Hove; off New Church Road.

There is plenty of natural sun light for crafts and messy activities and space where children can relax whenever they like.

Outside we have two separate garden areas for children in different developmental stages.

Key features of La Casita also include :

• Baby and toddler unit for 6 months to 2 years and a bespoke pre-school unit for 3-5 years, each with separate gardens.

• Unique free-flow nursery with all areas on ground floor level.

• Teacher-led activities promoting independence using a holistic learning approach.

• Dedicated indoor and outdoor areas to suit each stage of development

Windlesham School in Dyke Road, Brighton remains one of the City’s best kept secrets, with much of the new intake resulting from personal recommendations.

A thriving and truly independent school, it offers all children age 3-11 the opportunity to benefit from an affordable private education.

Traditional values go hand in hand with innovative teaching, and children flourish in its caring, friendly environment. As well as high academic standards, there is a strong focus on fostering individual interests and developing a wide range of skills, to enable children to grow into confident, well-rounded young people.

It all starts in the Nursery, where young children can forge ahead, gaining confidence to explore and learn, through play and structured activities.

There are two spacious rooms with areas for messy play, arts and crafts, construction and small world, plus quiet corners for reading.

Two playgrounds with soft surfaces ensure safe outdoor activities and the opportunity to make new friends.

Children are introduced to pre-reading and numeracy skills during their time in Nursery and they also gain the benefit of Windlesham’s specialist subject teaching, with early tastes of French and music. This, together with the emphasis on working together and promoting independence, helps to prepare children for a smooth transition to the Lower School.

To experience the unique atmosphere of Windlesham, come along to the next ‘School in Action’ morning on 6th February 2015, or call 01273 553645 to make an appointment for an individual visit.

• Imaginative and stimulating gardens with activity areas: climbing wall, sand pit, water wall, balancing logs, bugs corner, vegetable patch...

• Organic, nutritional cooked meals.

• Outings and trips organised.

• Password protected individual online child’s diary COME AND SEE FOR YOURSELF - Call 01273 323431 to book a viewing or email info@lacasitanursery.co.uk

Our sister company,

Buenos Dias offers fun, lively Spanish classes for children

aged 6 months and up.

Since 2003 we have been the leading Spanish language provider in Brighton & Hove.

Call 01273 323431 to book your free trial or visit buenosdias.co.uk for more information. editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Sussex Coast

Are you worried that your child might suffer from Dyslexia?

Denise Hawkins from Coast Education lists some signs that might wish to look out for: Dyslexia: Signs and Support A Dyslexia Overview

Around 10% of individuals have Dyslexia, a ‘Specific Learning Difficulty’. Parents and carers are best placed to notice difficulties children are having.

Typically, children with Dyslexia have unexpected problems with aspects of reading, spelling and writing.

However, because of the complexities of the brain, signs of Dyslexia can differ in individuals.

Difficulties with word reading can include problems ‘sounding out’ words, including muddling up sounds.

Additionally, difficulties with text reading can include missing out

words, losing track and not being able to recognise words which should be familiar.

Difficulties with spelling can include forgetting how to spell commonly used words and confusing similar letters, especially ‘b’ ‘’d’ and ‘p’.

During writing, punctuation is often omitted and sometimes their handwriting is slow.

Dyslexic children can fall behind quickly at school. If difficulties are suspected, it is important to speak to the SENCO (Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator) quickly.

Denise Hawkes MA (Sp.LD); BA (Hons) Education; QTS; APC (Patoss); TPC (Patoss): AMBDA For more information visit: Coast Education (www.coast-education.

co.uk) 01903 367637

Education

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Happy Homework...

Advice from Zoobookoo on how to establish a happy homework routine for your primary school child.

The most hectic part of the day for parents of school aged children is the time between the end of the school day and the children’s bedtime.

After piling in from school and after-school activities, there’s the evening meal to prepare, the next day’s packed lunch to put together and a whole host of other chores lined up and waiting.

So, how do you find a calm space from amongst the family hubbub for your child to settle down to their homework? Educational toy company,

Zoobookoo (www.zoobookoo.com)

have put together some guidance to help you establish a happy homework routine for your primary school child that will, hopefully, become a healthy habit by the time they reach high school.

1. When and where for homework

Decide with your child a regular time slot to do homework and stick to this. Check with your school as to the appropriate length of time for homework for your child and explain this to your child. Choose a place to do homework: Decide with your child where homework is to be completed for example, at the kitchen table or a specific desk. To begin with you will need to be seated with your child, but with time you will be able to be busy with other tasks, but in the same room. Be ready to sit down with your child if support is needed.

2. Avoid distractions

Turn off the TV, the Xbox, the DS and the computer – unless required. You need to help your child focus on their homework.

3. Help get them started

If your child has understood the work at school they will be able to explain what they have to do.

You may need to gently ask some questions and/

or inform, if the child did not understand.

You may need to openly discuss how to get started and discreetly point them in the right direction.

4. Your child must do the work (not you)

Ensure your child completes the work – you can explain where necessary but do not provide answers. Homework is a great opportunity for your child to think for themselves – and this deserves to be encouraged.

5. Patience and praise

You may have to explain some things several times. Resist the temptation to rush your child.

Consider this quality time – try to be relaxed about it. This is not a chore, it should be fun.

If your child associates homework with quality time with you they will be more likely to do it and enjoy the routine. Praise your child often, particularly their efforts and not just the final results.

6. Look, say, cover, write

8. ‘Real-life’ testing

Sometimes, perhaps in the car or out and about, you can discreetly test your child by incorporating what you know they should have learned recently.

Try to make it relevant to the situation, so they do not feel ‘tested’ – and never at bed time.

9. Parental role model

Because children copy adult behaviour it is great if you can do some of your ‘administrative’ chores (bank statements, letters etc) while your child does their homework. Then they see you do your ‘homework’ too, but be ready for interruptions!

10. Communicate any concerns with your child’s teacher

Make sure that any concerns you have about your child’s homework are relayed to your child’s teacher. The important thing is to communicate your concerns so that difficulties can be overcome.

www.ZooBookoo.com

Your child is unlikely to learn by just looking at work, so encourage them to LOOK at it, SAY it out loud, COVER it up, then WRITE it out. This is a good technique for learning spellings.

7. Tools of the trade

Set your child up with pencils, pens, colouring pencils, ruler, rubber and a good pencil sharpener - all in a special stationary holder.

Let your child choose a special notebook for writing out work when they are learning with the look, say, cover, write method.

01903 620257 Sussex Coast

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Sports and Health News

Getting Your Child Active and Healthy in 2015 Written by Debbie Webb, Owner of Activ8 For Kids

www.activ8forkids.co.uk

We all want our children to grow up healthy and happy, so how can we help them to achieve these goals?

Many children will have been given presents of new tablets, leap pads, computer games and other electronic devices. Whilst it is important and part of their education to become competent with technology we must also encourage them to play and be active every day.

It is recommended that children from the ages of 5 to 17 should be involved in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity a day (NHS Physical activity guidelines). This can include playing games, running around, PE lessons, play times at school, chasing games, visits to the park, scooting and riding on their bikes. It is also recommended that these activities involve muscle strengthening and bone strengthening activities for their physical development.

Muscle strengthening activities for children are those that require them to lift their own body weight or to work against a resistance, such as climbing a rope

Swinging on monkey bars or ropes Climbing Soft play Obstacle courses Gymnastics type activities Games such as basketball or football

Bone strengthening activities produce an impact or tension force on the bones that promotes bone growth and strength.

Jumping Running Hopscotch Skipping Dance Martial arts

Children need to raise their heart rate and get out of breath to really benefit from activity. There are so many ways of getting your child active.

Let them experience a wide range of activities, help them to find the activities they really enjoy and encourage them to try new ones: walking to school, cycling, running, playing games, going to the park, scooting, walking the dog, swimming, sports based classes, multi skills clubs, soft play, dancing and gymnastics.

Why not create a list of activities you want to do as a family, this will help you all to become more active and will help you build it in to your weekly timetables. For more ideas visit

http://www.nhs.uk/Change4Life/Pages/be-more-active.aspx

This website is full of great ideas to get the whole family active and healthy.

Debbie Webb runs Activ8 For Kids and has developed programmes of activity for the different ages and stages between 6 months and 12 years based on the fundamental movement skills.

Visit www.activ8forkids.co.uk for more information.

(Guidelines taken from NHS Choices: Live Well 2014)

Health & Fitness News

“Spring’s on its way and with time on their hands, your children need entertaining!

Whether they are sporty, creative or just want to have fun with friends then Worthing Leisure has it covered.

From football, arts and crafts, music to tennis, swimming, bouncy castles and assault courses, there’s an abundance of great activities guaranteed to keep them entertained.

Worthing Leisure’s Half-Term programme offers activities throughout four major centres from Monday 16th to Friday 20th February – from 8.30am to 6pm.

There are so many options to choose from at each leisure site and you could even leave your child for fully-supervised sessions of fun whilst you go out to work – just drop off and go!

For booking forms and full information about all activities taking place at Worthing Leisure, please visit www. worthingleisure.co.uk or contact Worthing Leisure today on 01903 502237 (Worthing Leisure Centre) or 01903 231797 (Splashpoint).” editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Sussex Coast

Clubs and Classes Clubs & Classes Swimming Schools:

MXT Swim School Lessons are designed to teach children at a much faster rate using MXT’s unique accelerated teaching system Worthing: tel: 01903 532765

www.mxtswimschool.com

Seriously Fun Swimming Schools

Small classes and personal service that are structured, safe and most of all fun!

East & West Sussex:tel: 084435 11409

www.seriouslyfun.com Little Dippers

Teaching your baby to love the water in warm pools Brighton: tel: 0844 482 0222

www.littledippers.co.uk

Performing Arts, Singing, and Dance Classes Razzamatazz

Get involved in performing arts in a funky, fresh and vibrant atmosphere!

Littlehampton: tel :01903 680600

www.razzamatazz.co.uk

Perform

A fun-packed mix of energetic dances, games and catchy songs West Sussex: tel 0845 400 4000

www.perform.org.uk Sing & Sign

Helping you and your baby enjoy the process of learning to talk Brighton: tel 01273 550587

www.singandsign.co.uk

Brighton & Hove Dance Academy Offering Tiny Tots ballet, RAD ballet, kids jazz and creative classes and adults jazz and ballet classes tel: 07500 724236

www.brightonandhovedanceacademy. co.uk Miss Becky’s Ballet

Classes in ballet, tap and modern from 2.5 years at the Harriet Johnson centre in Sompting. First class is free. tel: 07847334512

www.missbeckysballet.co.uk Bird Studios

Offering flamenco, ballet, singing, commercial/street dancing plus much more. tel: 01273 699902

www.birdstudios.co.uk

Tots that Rock

For those highly energetic children that like to dance, jump, run, bounce around and love music & party games.

Every Thursday in Shoreham at 10.30 and every Tuesday in Hove at 10.30

www.totsthatrock.co.uk Razzmatazz

Theatre and drama classes in Littlehampton for children aged 4 to 18, to get involved in a funky, fresh adn vibrant atomsopher call: Andrea: tel :07875 761291

www.razzmatazz.co.uk Minimusic

Baby and toddler classes starting January 5th until 27th March for children aged 6 months to 5 years. £5 a session.

Suzanne tel: 07931 187 399

www.mimimusic.info Story Carousel

Fitness and Gymnastic Classes Tiny Soccerstars

Providing private sessions, pre-school, after-school keystage 1 classes teaching boys and girls a wide range of ball-skills. Weekday sessions run term time and Saturday sessions throughout the year. Classes in Worthing, Patcham and Hove Tel: Marianne 07788 643259 Email: marianne@tinysoccerstars.co.uk

Fitness and Gymnastic Classes Bee-fit

Baby and Toddler fun fitness classes, action songs, parachute and fitness circuits Worthing: 01903 241740

www.bee-fit.co.uk

Worthing Leisure Centre

Join Fit4 or be choose a particular activity, set over 4 venues including Splashpoint for swimming.

Tel: 01903 502237

Story inspired art & activity classes.

Term time only in Brighton, Hove and Lewes for 18mths to 5 years old. tel - Lorna 07905 057282

www.worthingleisure.co.uk

PlayClub

www.activ8forkids.co.uk

www.storycarousel.com

Sessions are focussed on fun, creativity and collaboration. Each session will be based around a story.

Situated at Hive Cafe in Hove every Tuesday from 4pm-4.45 for 4-7 year olds. Pre-school lessons are starting in January. Please contact below for further details. tel: Aisling 07855 366181

www.playclub.uk.com

Drum-A-Tum Music

Fun and music for kids age birth to five.Wednesday morning 10.30 at The Vallance Centre, Conway Court, Hove Wednesday afternoon 2pm at Barford Court, Princes Square, Hove Contact Debra on tel: 07778666893

drumatum@icloud.com Stagecoach

Drama, acting and singing lessons based in Lewes at Ringmer Community College for children aged 4 - 18, very friendly school and everyone is welcome! tel: Caroline 07933 726924 Email: lewes@stagecoach.co.uk

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Activ 8

Fun physical activity classes for kids from 18 months to 12 years Tel: 01903 785785

Martial Arts Samurai

A full time Martial Arts School for students aged 3.5 years old to adults with an on-site cafe.

Brighton: 01273 570940

www.samuraibrighton.com

Language Classes and Tutors

Buenos Dias Join the fun with lively, engaging Spanish classes for children aged 6 months and up. Free trial session available.

Hove: 01273 323431

www.buenosdias.co.uk

Mathemagical Mathemagical offer fun and active maths classes for children aged 2 to 7 years old. Through singing, actions, props, games, toys, puzzles and child-led play giving children a fantastic start in maths.

Steph: 07711 604641

www.mathemagical.co.uk

01903 620257 Sussex Coast

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Business Feature

New Year, New You: time to detox our lives?

Many of us wake up on January 1st feeling exhausted from Christmas, a little worse for wear from the night before and desperate for the kids to go back to school. But we also find ourselves scribbling lists of New Year’s resolutions – to get fit, lose weight, get stuck in to that pile of paperwork on the kitchen table and, often, to give our working lives a shake up too.

The New Year is not just about detoxing our bodies – it can also be a time to detox our lives. In fact, January is a fantastic time for those of us with children in nursery or full time education for the first time to go back to work, start a new venture, set up our own business or to re-train in something that will get us leaping out of bed every morning!

From a new job or a whole new career, the world is your oyster as a working mum. If your hours are limited by the school run, setting up your own business or taking up a franchise can offer you the opportunity to do something you love while working flexible hours, and the options are limitless.

You can choose anything from running a yoga franchise to teaching little ones dance or drama, from teaching Spanish to starting your own Families magazine! Take a course, start a marketing business, design websites, set up a blog, open a café – it’s up to you. There are plenty of websites out there to help you get started and find a new job, re-train, choose the right business, give you ideas, advise you on tax and even help you design your logo, so there’s no excuse not to get stuck in this New Year.

Take a look at

Time to move to greener pastures?

Are you thinking of moving out of the countryside down to the South Coast of England? Frances Hollings and Charlotte Tomlinson at Private Organisers Ltd may be the answer to all of your prayers.

The friends have set up a new bespoke, and approachable relocation/search company that takes all the stress out of the moving process, viewing houses with only you in mind, creating short lists in the quest for that dream home.

Stopping the need for you to be permanently on the road viewing unsuitable properties in equally unsuitable areas. They can also advise on schools in the local area and with the help of their enviable “black book” can oversee and recommend architects, builders, plumbers and all those people that make your new house your home.

Whether it is to buy a property or to rent in order to get a feel for the area, from their first informal meeting with you Charlotte and Frances will make sure you tick off all the items on your large ‘to do’ and ‘what if’ lists.

To find out more please visit their website www.privateorganisers.co.uk or call them for an informal chat on 07710 477141

....running a franchise

from teaching little ones dance to running your own Families magazine franchise, existing plus new franchises are available all over the UK so please contact Helli on hellli@familiesmagazine.co.uk, our Franchise Director at Head Office.

www.gov.uk/starting-up-business, www.workingmums.co.uk, www. mumandcareer.co.uk, www.mumandworking.co.uk and www.mumpreneuruk.com.

You can do it!

Business Opportunities available in your area

Franchise Opportunities Email: franchising@swimkidz.co.uk Tel: 0118 983 6130 / 07825 955533

www.swimkidz.co.uk editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Sussex Coast

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VegfestUK Brighton

Makes Healthy Eating Fun, Exuberant and Stress-Free for Families!

Kids under 16 Get Free Entry

VegfestUK Brighton – one of Europe’s prime vegan and healthy living events - opens the door to a vibrant of indulgent eating.

Taking place on March 28th 29th 2015 at the Brighton Centre, VegfestUK Brighton mixes health and treats with aplomb from 160 stalls and caterers, plus cookery demos and information from health experts, on top of family-friendly activities with emphasis on healthy eating.

The family friendly activities include pancake tossing, discovering electricity in bananas, how to get our 5-a-day easily, rainbow fridge art amongst world others. For more active children they can look forward to a Last Man Standing dance mat, a Disco Dome inflatable dance floor, several magic shows throughout the day, and smoothie bikes.

The event also includes a Food Village packed full of healthy treats, live performances, the UK’s first ever Vegan Comedy Festival, a Party Political Conference, a Global Food Sustainability Conference, and more!

Kids under 16 can enter the event for free. Adult tickets are £5 (day) / £8 (weekend) in advance, now available at

www.brighton.vegfest.co.uk/admission

These are on BUY ONE GET ONE FREE until February 28th, followed by BUY ONE GET ONE HALF PRICE till March 21st.

Sussex Coast

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New Year Resolutions

8 TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS Stay focused Are you planning a fresh start in 2015?

Are you going to eat more healthily, exercise regularly or lose weight?

Statistics vary, but most estimates put the success rate for New Year Resolutions at around 10%.

That’s a depressing 9 in 10 chance of failure.So how can you make sure you’re one of the successful 10% this year?

Joanne Henson, author of ‘What’s your excuse for not getting fit?’ and ‘What’s your excuse for not eating healthily?’ has eight tips to help ensure your New Year Resolutions are successful…

Set specific targets

Want to lose weight? How much?

Want to get fitter? How much fitter?

In three/six/twelve months’ time, what do you want to be able to do?

Write it down and give it a date by which you want to reach your target. Without a deadline you’ll drift.

Get organised

Without planning, things go awry.

For example: you want to fit in three workouts per week, but you’ve not planned when. It’s Monday and you’ve got that Monday feeling, so you say to yourself you’ll go to the gym tomorrow. But you’re meeting friends on Tuesday, which means no workout… If you’d looked ahead and diarised the workouts you’d have been sure to fit them i in.

Coaches often say, “Begin with the end in mind” – but what is even more important is to progress with the end in mind.

Focus on how great it’s going to feel when you reach your goal – the smaller size jeans, the increased energy, the compli ments on how great you’re looking.

It’s these thoughts which will keep you on track

Avoid negative language

Many resolutions are about giving things up, so it’s very easy to talk about them in negative terms: “I am giving up alcohol for January”. But it has a positive end – a healthier you. If you talk only about what you are giving up, you are bound to feel deprived.

Replace negative statements with more positive ones – for instance instead of “I’m not drinking for the whole of January” say “I’m having a healthy January to improve my energy levels”.This shifts the focus from what you are missing to what you are looking forward to.

Change your approach!

LEISURE CENTRES

Here are a few of your local Leisure Centres who are ready to help you achieve your goals in a friendly environment – remember don’t push yourself, take your time I know I will be!!!

Worthing Leisure Centre

You can join Fit4 and be a member of their 4 centres including Splashpoint, extensive children’s’ programme and also a crèche at the Leisure Centre.

Tel: 01903 502237

www.worthingleisure.co.uk

Freedom Leisure Centres

Choose from a wide range of group exercise classes at a leisure centre near you, offering children’s classes, soft play areas and crèches - please check whether your nearest centre offers all of these facilities.Areas: Brighton & Hove, Hassocks, Mousecoomb, and Withdean

www.freedom-leisure.co.uk

Portslade Sports Centre

Offering various types of membership or pay-as-you-go schemes, large sports programme for adults and children.

Tel: 01273 411100

www.portsladesportscentre.co.uk

Impulse Leisure

Group of leisure centres, offering swimming facilities, exercise classes, children’s classes, soft play areas and crèche - please check with your local leisure centre to check what facilities they offer.

Areas: Lancing, Southwick, Wadurs, Storrington

www.impulseleisure.co.uk

Inspire Leisure

Ask yourself is your goal actually possible, with the time and resources you are able and willing to dedicate to it?

For instance, if you’re giving yourself six weeks to lose a stone, that’s going to mean pretty strict eating. Would you rather give yourself eight weeks and allow yourself a few nights out and treats along the way?

If you make the same old resolution every year, this is particularly important.

If something hasn’t worked for you before, it’s unlikely to work this time around.Try a new approach.

What can you do differently this year? Get advice if necessary, or ask successful people how they achieved their goals. For weight loss, ditch the quick fix diets and consider other ways of eating.

If you want to get fit, but start off running every year and lose interest, what other forms of exercise could you do instead?

If you adopt these strategies in 2015 you’ll have a practical and realistic strategy for success. Here’s to you being in the successful 10% this year!

Track your progress

ABOUT JOANNE HENSON

www.davidlloyd.co.uk

Make your plan achievable

Think about creating a journal or spreadsheet or download an app which you can use to record progress – you may only be recording small improvements, but they’re improvements nonetheless. And when your willpower is waning, looking back at the improvements you’ve made so far will help you stay on track.

Remember that one slip up does not equal total failure.

Don’t let one slip up turn into the end of your plans. Don’t get so angry at yourself for one lapse that you forget to congratulate yourself on the success you’ve had up to that moment. Put that one bad day in proper perspective. Then make the next day a good one, and you’ll be back on track. editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Sussex Coast

Joanne Henson is a health and weight-loss coach, specialising in helping people with a history of failed diets and fitness regimes to change their relationship with food and exercise for good. From unhealthy beginnings she overcame her own obstacles and now motivates and inspires others to become the healthier, leaner, happier people they’ve always wanted to be.

Joanne is the author of ‘What’s Your Excuse For Not Eating Healthily?’ and ‘What’s Your Excuse For Not Getting Fit?’ Both are available on Amazon in Paperback and Kindle format. [ www.joannehenson.co.uk ]( http://www.joannehenson.co.uk/ ) Follow Joanne on Twitter: @Joannemh and @whats_yr_excuse

Swimming lessons for both adults and children and a gym on-site.

Tel: 01903 725451 Area: Littlehampton

www.inspireleisure.co.uk

Virgin Active

With a large exercise class timetable for both adults and children, swimming pool, health and beauty suite, restaurant and as crèche in Rustington.

Areas: Rustington and Brighton

www.virginactive.co.uk

David Lloyd

Offering a large selection of classes and swimming facilities for both adults and children, soft play areas, tennis, restaurants and crèche - please check with your local club to see which facilities they have.

Areas: Brighton, Worthing and Eastbourne

Wave Leisure

There are 3 sites, offering soft play areas, sports classes and swimming venues, check on the website to see what each site has to offer.

Areas: Peacehaven, Seaford and Lewes

www.waveleisure.co.uk

Steyning Leisure Centre

With a full timetable of exercise classes, children’s classes, swimming and squash courts available.

Tel: 01903 879666

www.placesforpeopleleisure.org/centres/steyning-leisure-centre

What to do this Half Term Half Term Courses & Activities 16th – 20th February 2015 MXT Swim School

Half term extensive swimming course for more information: Call Mario on 01903 202 700 or visit

www.mxtswimschool.com

Worthing Leisure Centre

Extensive half term holiday programme for children aged 5 to 12

www.worthingleisure.co.uk Impulse Leisure

Half term holiday programme for children for more information visit

www.impulseleisure.co.uk

Brighton & Hove Albion in the Community

Running courses over the half term dates and venues in Worthing and Brighton yet to be announced please check their website for more details:

www.albioninthecommunity.org Activ8

Running half term courses at Hawthorns School in Durrington for children aged 4 – 10 for further information:

www.activ8forkids.co.uk

Places to go over Half Term

Standen For further information on prices, activities and opening hours visit:

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

Brighton Science Festival Exact dates and activities have not yet been released please refer to the website for further details:

www.brightonscience.com

Hever Castle Living with Birds, celebrate National Nest Box Week at Hever Castle & Gardens this Half Term with fun and educational activities all the family can enjoy. Learn about birds and their nesting habits as nature expert, Tim Christian, leads a bird box building workshop (£5.00 in addition to entrance fee). Young visitors can make a bird feeder in a FREE craft workshop and find out more about different species of British birds with the help of an activity sheet.

After enjoying the family fun in the grounds, warm up in the Castle as you discover how birds were significant in Tudor times.

www.hevercastle.co.uk

Brighton Sealife Centre Open every day from 10-5 visit the Rainforest Adventure, Interactive Rockpool and feeding demonstrations are running all day.

For more information visit:

www.visitsealife.com/brighton

WE HAVE FAMILY TICKETS TO GIVE AWAY FOR THORPE PARK THIS HALF TERM Thorpe Park Resort’s February Half Term goes off with a BANG

Brainiac scientists go wild with experiments and explosions to shake the Island like no other, THORPE PARK Resort

Explosive, electric and eccentric, Brainiac Show Live! returns to THORPE PARK Resort for a nine-day thrill spectacular over February half-term from Saturday 14 February.

Strap on your safety goggles and join Brainiac Live’s mischievous band of scientists for the ultimate entertainment show with a science spin.

From freezing household objects with liquid nitrogen to exploding bins, rocket propelled chairs, giant airzooka and testing how to make a really big BANG, who knew science could be this fun.

After the show, guests can get hands on experience at ‘Brainiacs in Training’ stations set up across the Park where they will get the chance to create their own experiments.

Guests can catch one of four 45 minute shows that will take place each day between 14 – 22 February as well as enjoying the Park’s thrilling family friendly rides.* Check out ANGRY BIRDS LAND, home to the Angry Birds 4D Experience, King Pig’s Wild Hog Dodgems and a 100ft drop tower, Detonator: Bombs Away.

Take advantage of the Park’s exclusive early opening offer and check out the multi-award winning TV and West End show, Brainiac Live! – tickets start from just £12.50 if you pre-book early.

Alternatively, guests can book a discounted Thorpe Park Annual Pass during the ‘January Sale’ which will run between 27 December 2014 – 13 February 2015.

THORPE PARK Resort will officially open for the season on Wednesday 12 March.

For your chance to win tickets please email you name and address to

editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

Spring Barn Farm Fantastic indoor and outdoor play areas, meet the animals and homecooked food from the cafe.

www.spingbarnfarm.co.uk

WWT Arundel Wetlands Centre I love Wetlands Week lots of fun for all the family from 10-4 admission fees apply open 7 days a week.

Tel: 01903 881530 www.wwt.org.uk Fisher’s Farm Park Wiggly Week, fun activities all week during half-term with ‘Animal Extravaganza’. Snuggle inside the Barn Theatre for a special ‘Magic Show’ or take advatange of the indoor Soft Play area and fantastic family day out with an award winning restaurant on site.

www.fishersfarmpark.co.uk

Worthing Theatres Circus Seen Workshop and Robin’s Winter Adventure both on the 17th to book tickets visit:

www.worthingtheatres.co.uk

National Trust – the following properties are all holding half term activities: Chartwell, Ightham Mote, Knowle, Scotney Castle,Sissington Castle, Bateman’s Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters, Bodiam Castle,,Sheffield Park

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Out of Bounds Worthing’s new indoor activity centre with 10 pin bowling, a large soft play area and an excellent clip and climb arena. Laser tag is available in the evenings. Restaurant and bar onsite.

www.out-of-bounds.co.uk

Monkey Bizness Popular soft play centre in Lewes with a separate toddlers area, indoor football pitch, large climbing frame for older children and a large airy cafe serving food where you can still keep an eye on your children.

www.monkey-bizness.co.uk

Amberley Museum 18th February ,Super Science Activity Day, Amberley Museum is a 36 acre site set in the South Downs National Park dedicated to industrial heritage, with communications and electricity exhibition halls, working print-shop, stationary engines, lime kilns and more. Visitors can take free rides on the narrow gauge railway or historic bus. For further information visit:

www.amberleymuseum.co.uk

01903 620257 Sussex Coast

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What’s On

What’s On

6-11th

Worthing Ice-Skating Rink at Steyne Gardens

A tribute to 70 years of Holiday on Ice which has been appearing at the venue since 1978.

Traditional elements and surprising moments combine to create an incomparable show experience, which will enchant audiences of all ages.

Starring Ray Quinn.

Ongoing

Worthing Ice Rink offers a great value day out for all the family. All ages over the age of 4 years are welcome to skate, whatever your level of ability.

There is Puddles the penguin and his friends on hand to assist younger skaters. The food court will be offering hot and cold meals and drinks, so skaters and non-skaters alike can enjoy the atmosphere in the warmth of the marquee.

www.worthingicerink.com

Arundel Wetlife Centre in Arundel

Diving Duck Feeds every day at 2pm, Wetlands Discovery Boat Safari runs every day between 11am – 3.30pm, Guide in a Hide will run every Saturday and Sunday where experts will help novices learn about bird-watching. For further details on times and admission prices please visit:

www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/ arundel

Look & Sea Centre in Littlehampton

From the glorious viewing tower you have a 360 degree birds eye view of the harbour and South Downs from Goodwood to Highdown. At the heart of the centre is the interactive exhibition where the whole family can learn about the history and heritage of the local area in a fun and interesting environment.

www.lookandsea.co.uk

Brighton Sea Life

The world’s oldest operating aquarium situated opposite Palace Pier, visit the Rainforest Adventure meet the turtles and have a snack in the cafe.

Open every day from 10am – 5pm. For further information please visit:

www.visitsealife.com/brighton

January 1st-18th

Royal Pavillion Ice Rink in Brighton

Set right next to the gorgeous Royal Pavilion it’s covered in hundreds of tiny twinkling lights, while out on the ice there are beginners’ skate sessions every morning from 10am-11am and penguin stabilisers for little ones.

Holiday on Ice Platinum at the Brighton Centre

www.brightoncentre.co.uk Until 11th

Beauty & The Beast at the Devonshire Park Theatre in Eastbourne

Eastbourne’s famous pantomime returns with this classic tale of Belle and the beast, but can love break the spell?

www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk 17-18th

January Winter Wildlife watch at Pulborough Brooks

Venture out with guides to seek out some of the best wintery wildlife. If you are lucky there could be a peregrine falcon in hot pursuit of her prey. £10 per person – nature trail entry for children

www.rspb.org.uk/pulboroughbrooks 17 and 31st

Worthing Thunder at Worthing Leisure Centre

Worthing’s basketball team Worthing Thunder are playing at home on these two nights.

www.worthingleisure.co.uk 18th

Learn how to Face Paint at Mad Hatters in Worthing

Want to learn a new skill book a place at Mad Hatters at either 11.30am or 1.00pm Email Emma on madhattersteapar-

lour@hotmail.co.uk

31st

Ickle Pickles New and Nearly New Sale at the Maybridge centre, Worthing

Entry is £1 to find out more about this event visit: Facebook.com/icklepicklesabc

February 1-28th

Brighton Science Festival at various locations

The 2015 Brighton Science Festival promises to liven up your drab February, whether you want to dip your toe or dive headfirst into the world of science.

www.brightonscience.com editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Sussex Coast

7th

Bazaar Brighton at the Brighton Unitarian Church

At the fair you will find a vintage emporium, curiosity shop, designer makers couture, folk art, crafts, printmakers, ceramics, homewares, antiques and salvage, fashion, records & books, a kitsch cafe, massage, djs and childrens’ art workshop area. From 11am – 5.00pm.

www.bazaarbrighton.co.uk 8th

Sing-a -Long-a-Sound-of-Music at the Theatre Royal in Brighton

A screening of the classic Julie Andrews film musical, complete with lyric subtitles so that the whole audience can sing along. Join the live host for a vocal warm-up, fancy dress competition and free magic moment fun pack, now including a special commemorative brochure. Starts at 7.30pm for further information on prices visit:

www.theatreroyalbrighton.com 12-15th

Bake for Bliss Charity Event

A nationwide event where people are asked to hold a cake sale for friends, family or colleagues to raise money for Bliss, the special care baby charity. For more information please visit:

www.bliss.org.uk 16th

The Sooty Show at the Theatre Royal Brighton

Direct from CITV, Sooty heads into town in a fabulous new show to delight the whole family. Joining the nations favourite bear will be Sweep, Soo and Sooty’s TV partner Richard Cadell who will be attempting to keep Sooty from getting up to mischief! Boy will he have his hands full! Starts at 11am, please check the website for further details:

www.theatreroyalbrighton.com 16-17th

Polar Bears Go Wild at the Studio Theatre, Brighton Dome

Join two friendly (and slightly naughty) polar bears on the adventure of a lifetime- scaling mountains, rowing across rivers, skiing down icy slopes and stopping for picnics along the way.

On the 16th After The Polar Bears Go Wild!, young audience members can get crafty and make a keepsake to take home. Their team is on hand to lead the creativity, leaving parents and guardians free to sit back, relax and enjoy some coffee or cake. For times and prices visit:

www.brightondome.org

20-22nd

Modelworld at the Brighton Centre Modelworld is a unique exhibition showcasing models of all types from around the country. A must for every modelling enthusiast and a great day out for kids and grown-ups!

www.brightoncentre.com 21st

Cheeki Monkeys Baby’s and Childrens Market in The Woodlands centre, Littlehampton A place for parents to buy & sell their second hand goods. Why not book a stall and sell some of your outgrown baby/children’s things.

www.cheekimonkeys.co.uk 21-22nd

Cobweb Weekend at Amberley Museum, Near Arundel

Come and see the museum opening for the season, look at exhibits being prepared for display.

26-28th

Handa’s Surprise at Studio Theatre, Brighton Dome

A vibrant and magical blend of puppetry, live music, gentle storytelling and audience participation, Handa’s Surprise is the perfect introduction to theatre for little ones aged 2-6. On the 28th after Handa’s Surprise, young audience members can get crafty and make a keepsake to take home. Their team is on hand to lead the creativity, leaving parents and guardians free to sit back, relax and enjoy some coffee or cake. For times and prices visit:

www.brightondome.org 27th

Shoreham and Southwick Farmers Market at Southwick Community Centre

Homemade food, chutneys and much more also handmade crafts. From 9.15am

28th

Worthing Thunder at Worthing Leisure Centre

Worthing’s basketball team Worthing Thunder are playing at home.

www.worthingleisure.co.uk

What’s On? What’s on at your Local Library?

Rhyme Time Under 5’s:

Monday: Hassocks 9.30 – 10.00 Littlehampton 11.00 – 11.30 Burgess Hill 11.00 – 11.30 Newhaven 2.00 – 2.30 first and third Monday in every month Tuesday: Billingshurst 10.45 – 11.15 Storrington 10.45 – 11.15 Worthing 10.00 – 10.30 11.15 – 11.45 Hurstpierpoint 9.30 – 10.00 Lewes 10.30 – 11.00 first Thursday in every month Wednesday: Durrington 2.30-3.00 Peacehaven 10.30 – 11.00 first Wednesday in every month Thursday: Henfield 10.15 – 1.45 Broadwater 11.00 – 11.30 Goring 11.00- 11.30 Rustington 11.30 – 12.00 Southwater 10.30 – 11.00 Friday: Burgess Hill 9.45 – 10.15 Lancing 11.00 – 11.30 Steyning 2.15 – 2.45

Toddler Time Under 5’s

Monday Burgess Hill 2.00 – 2.30 Midhurst 2.15 – 2.45 Lewes 2.00 – 2.30 Tuesday Ferring 10.30 – 11.00 Wednesday Angmering 2.15-2.45 Goring 2.15 – 2.45 Thursday Arundel 10.30-11.10 Rustington 10.10-10.40 Storrington 2.15-2.45 Friday East Preston 11.00 – 11.30 Worthing 9.45 – 10.15

Story Time Under 5’s

Wednesday Lancing 11.00 – 11.30 Jubilee Library 10.15 – 10.45 Friday Shoreham 2.10 – 2.40 Hove Library 10.15 – 10.45 Saturday Rustington 10.10 – 10.40 Shoreham 2.10 – 2.40 Southwater 11.00 – 11.30 Worthing 11.00 – 11.30

Baby Boogie – please ring for dates

Jubilee Library – 01273 296960 Coldean Library – 01273 296902 Hove Library – 01273 290700 Hangleton Library – 01273 296904 Hollingbury Library – 01273 296908 Moulsecoomb Library – 01273 296910 Patcham Library – 01273 296912 Portslade Library – 01273 296914 Rottingdean Library – 01273 2969108 Saltdean Library – 01273 296920 Woodingdean Library – 01273 292896

Ed’s Reading Room

Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! Im Ed and here is my New Year book selection for you to enjoy. The books are all available online and from good bookstores.

Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free online book and story club for primary children in homes and schools.

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS The Eager Elephant by Amelia Cobb (Nosy Crow £4.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Zoe knows how lucky she is living at the Rescue Zoo where her mother works and she also has a special secret – she can understand the animals’ growls and grunts and talk back to them. There is huge excitement when Zoe’s great-uncle arrives home from Africa with a crate containing a baby elephant. Zoe enthusiastically follows Bertie’s progress but when Bertie finds himself in danger will Zoe and her animal friends be able to rescue him?

‘This a lovely story for animal-lovers with more exciting adventures in the series. It is ideal for newly-confident readers or for reading together.’

The Royal Babysitters by Clémentine Beauvais (Bloomsbury £5.99)

ED SAYS: ‘When Holly and Anna read about an intergalactic holiday of a lifetime they absolutely have to go on, they decide they will have to get a job to pay for it. They soon talk themselves into being royal babysitters for a day but they are in for a shock when they realise there are six princes to be looked after – and an invasion to repel.

Will the girls be able to survive the dangers and problems hurled at them during this crazy day of princesitting?

‘Here is a madcap adventure to delight both boys and girls. The story is complemented throughout with fantastic illustrations.’

used to be, according to one 473 year old teacher! So she and her spectral friends set up Mountwood School for Ghosts to promote excellence in haunting. Two young humans Daniel and Charlotte meet the likeable ghost Percy and when they realise that problems in their neighbourhood (created by humans) are seemingly insuperable they enlist the help of the phantoms of Mountwood.

‘This is a thrilling and imaginatively-written story that will have you on the edge of your seat. It is action-packed and full of humour.’

15

NEW YEAR COMPETITION DRAW – SIX OF THE BEST! Email Ed – ed@edontheweb.com – telling him the title of your favourite ever book and stating your age (11 and under), with Families Magazine in the Subject line. The lucky winner will receive SIX fantastic books for their age. Closing date 18th January 2015. xxxxx

Snow White world-famous Russian Ice Stars take you on a

magical journey to the heart of the best-loved fairy tale of all time as Snow White on Ice glides into the Eastbourne’s Congress Theatre from 5 - 8 March 2015.

Be treated to a dazzling display of breath-taking acrobatics and spectacular choreography as world-class skaters bring to life this ever-popular story. Snow White on Ice Special Family Saver Offer! Pay only £64 for 2 adult tickets and 2 under 16s tickets.

To book tickets call Box Office on 01323 412000 or online

atwww.eastbournetheatres.co.uk

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS Terror Town by Marcus Sedgwick (Orion £6.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Elf Girl and Raven Boy, along with their friend Rat, are speeding across hills and fields on a magic flying carpet towards Terror Town. They have the Tears of the Moon but they must find the Singing Sword in order to save the world from the Goblin King. Zombies and werewolves are roaming the streets of Terror Town but there are also other scary things – and people – to contend with while attempting to complete their mission.

‘This a fantastic story and a real page-turner of a book. If you enjoy it as much as I did you will want to look out for the next part of Elf Girl and Raven Boy’s travels.’

Mountwood School for Ghosts by Toby Ibbotson (Macmillan £12.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Ghosts aren’t what they

01903 620257 Sussex Coast

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Preparing Children for Life

Windlesham School E S TA B L I S H E D 1 9 4 8

School in Action Morning Friday 6th February, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

An independent school for boys and girls from 3 to 11 years, with strong links to a range of state and independent secondary schools at scholarship level.

Contact the School Admissions Secretary on 01273 553645

Windlesham School, 190 Dyke Road, Brighton, BN1 5AA Email: admissions@windleshamschool.co.uk www.windleshamschool.co.uk editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Sussex Coast