Families Suffolk Jan-Feb 2013 issue 9

Families Suffolk – The local magazine containing useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds

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IN THIS ISSUE Local News - Nursery Feature - Health Feature - Suffolk’s Olympic Legacy Babytalk - A Mums Experience Of PND - What’s On & Much More I P S W I C H • R U S H M E R E • B E L S T E A D • W H E R S T E A D • P I N E W O O D • K E S G R AV E • H E N L E Y • W I T N E S H A M N A C T O N • H O L B R O O K • S H O T L E Y • C L AY D O N • W O O D B R I D G E • H A D L E I G H • S T O W M A R K E T

3-4 5 6 7 My little monkeys

Hello and Happy New Year, I sincerely hope you all enjoyed fun family time over the holiday period.

Well here we are, 2013 the children are back to school and the usual family routine resumes, so grab yourself a cuppa and check out the features and articles in this new issue. We have two pages of Local News for you, a mum’s experience of postnatal depression on our Babytalk page, a moment for reflection on our Parents Place page, plus a Nursery feature, Health feature and information regarding Suffolk’s Olympic Legacy. That’s not all, page 13 provides offers and competitions and the issue concludes with two pages of What’s On. We always love to hear from you with any thoughts about future topics, news or events you wish to be included, all our contact details are at the end of this note. We look forward to hearing from you.

Happy reading, Lisa Giddings – Editor.

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Local News 5

Baby Talk Postnatal depression – ‘A mum’s story’

Parents Place Our Community Articles from Ormiston Children & Families Trust and SCC Fostering Department

Nursery Feature Choosing a nursery, funding and how to reduce nursery costs

Health Quit smoking and colormetric testing Gluten sensitivity and coeliac disease

12 Suffolk’s Olympic Legacy 13 Reader Offers & Competition 14-15 What’s On

P.S If you enjoy Families Suffolk magazine why not register for our bimonthly newsletter, this contains more useful articles, information and offers for you to enjoy - www.familiesonline.co.uk/user/register NEXT ISSUE - March / April 2013

editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk facebook.com/FamiliesSuffolk twitter.com/Familiessuffolk

scan for our website Registered charity:1093411

CIRCULATION - 13,000 copies of Families Suffolk are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected shops and other distribution points throughout Suffolk. If you would like free copies for your organisation, please contact us.

CONTACT DETAILS 01473 788546 / 07887 945767 editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk EDITORIAL, ADVERTISING AND ARTWORK editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk

WEAR A HAT DAY Thursday 2 8th March

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EVENTS, DIARY DATES, OUT & ABOUT editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk DESIGN AND EDITING Richard Jarmy www.richardjarmy.co.uk info@richardjarmy.co.uk 07799 031 820

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

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

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Cover picture credit: © ChristArt - Fotolia.

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

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NCT Nearly New Sale

Pampering Rest and Relaxation Pampering, IImage Beauty Salon, Old Foundry Road, Ipswich have had an exciting and incredible last seven months, they have new treatments, new a e events and lots of good news. Image are pleased to be able to offer ttheir clients the opportunity to take part in yoga classes at the salon.

Ensuring you are relaxed and feeling good on the inside is as much E of a priority for Image as helping you to look your best on the outside o and yoga is a proven way to retain fitness, balance and harmony. a

Sunday 17th March 2013, Copleston High School Foxhall Road, Ipswich IP4 5HD (signposted Copleston Centre) 1pm for Members of NCT (Members only queue, please bring your current membership card with you. 1.15pm for non-members. Entry £1 per adult and free after 2.15pm.

NCT sales are organised into sections, so you can easily find and buy clothes for babies and young children; baby equipment such as cots, Moses baskets, bouncy chairs, buggies, stair gates and washable nappies; toys, games and books, including outdoor ride-on toys and slides; and maternity clothing.

You can purchase many of the products you need for a new baby at very low cost. There are also lots of products suitable for toddlers and older children. Parents can feel proud of themselves for being environmentally friendly.

Many volunteers are needed to run the day successfully.

Volunteers can attend a preview before we open to the public.

For further information or to volunteer, please email nearly.new.sale@nct-ipswich.org.uk or phone 0844 243 6174. To sell at the sale please email sellers.packs@nctipswich.org.uk or phone 0844 243 6174 (option 2) after February 11th.

Baby Boogie Beats those Winter Blues!

Too cold for the park? Beat those ‘Winter Blues’ with a fun, lively morning at ‘Baby Boogie’ the music class designed especially for babies 0 to 18 months old. With action songs, instruments, puppets and parachute, a stimulating morning is guaranteed at a price that won’t pinch either!

If your child is over 18 months, then join in the fun at the popular ‘Sing & Stretch’ class (open to all children 0-5years).

• • • •

Tuesday 10am: Sing & Stretch, Capel St Mary Methodist Church, IP9 2EP Wednesday 9.30 & 10.45: Sing & Stretch, URC Hadleigh, Market Place, IP7 5DL Thursday 10am: Sing & Stretch, 11am: Baby Boogie, East Bergholt, Lambe School Gaston St, CO7 6SD Friday 10am: Baby Boogie, Hadleigh Baptist church, George Street, IP7 5BE

To find out more call Rebecca: 01473 828490 or 07749791479 or visit www.suffolkkidsparties.co.uk - No need to book. First session free!

Snakes and Ladders Toy Amnesty Start the New Year by supporting p g a worthy y cause whilst at the same time making room for your children’s new presents.

Why not take unwanted good quality toys to the East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices donation station at Snakes and Ladders, Cavendish Street, Ipswich. The do donation station donat nation ion st stati ation on wil willl be be on on site from 2nd to 31st January. All toys donated will be sold

by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices in their shops to raise funds and everyone that donates will receive 15% off child entry to Snakes and Ladders if they then go in to play. Toys must be good quality (worth a minimum of 50p to the charity shop) and cannot include electrical items. In the event of a dispute the management’s decision is final. There is no charge to go in and donate toys. A 20% discount on child entry applies for a play session in the play centre when you donate (during the same visit).

www.snakes-and-ladders.co.uk

Mothers to be, new at Image is a comfortable save support couch for M p pregnant women. Now it is possible for pregnant woman to relax in a face down position during a massage and have a comfortable leg wax. Built on a solid reinforced frame the couch has two recesses for the breasts and one large recess for the bump! See page 13 for the chance to win a treatment on this couch.

Image were awarded the ‘Favourite Independent Business for 2012’ from the Ipswich Central/Ipswich Star ‘All About Your Independents’ campaign in October last year plus have been short listed by Professional Beauty Magazine as one of the top 5 Best salons in the country.

So to experience pampering Image Beauty salon style give Sue or her team a call and enjoy some well-earned downtime.

01473 222 188 - www.imagesalon.co.uk

The Dame Vera Lynn Trust Suffolk Do you have any spare time during office hours on a Monday or a Friday?

If so why not volunteer to help p yyour local charity y that s supports children 0-5yrs with cerebral palsy and other physical disabilities and their families at their school based in Sproughton, Ipswich.

The Dame Vera Lynn Trust need help to raise y the profile of the charity in Suffolk by encouraging individuals, organisations and businesses to get involved with fundraising campaigns and events.

If you are friendly and outgoing, enjoy a challenge and would like to join the team at this wonderful local charity then please contact Sara White on 01473 652880 to discuss the opportunities further.

New My Food‘Baby Body’ Post Pregnancy Diet Delivery Plan Leading diet delivery company MY Food has launched the first nationwide fresh food ‘diet to your door’ for new mothers. Baby Body has been designed to help new mothers when they need it most. They won’t need to worry about shopping and time-consuming prepa preparation rati tion off healthy health lthy meals, mealls as the Baby Body plan will take care of everything, allowing them to enjoy this precious time with their newborn baby safe in the knowledge that they both are being nutritionally catered for.

The post-pregnancy plan has been designed by BANT registered nutritionists for both breast-feeding and bottlefeeding mums Eating a balanced nutritious diet after childbirth can: * Promote the healing of sore tissues *Help restore the abdomen and uterus to its former size * Replenish stores of nutrients * Ensure nutrient rich breast milk Baby Body Breast Feeding Plan includes: * 3 meals per day* totalling approx 1200 calories * Freshly prepared meals, ready to “eat” or “heat & eat” * A weekly delivery in a chilled hamper *3 delicious “Essential Fat Snacks” providing 200 calories of goodness As mothers need to consume an extra 500 calories to feed their newborn *Herbal tea, as hydration is vital whilst breast feeding

www.myfood.co.uk

www.familiessuffolk.co.uk

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Party sweets anyone?

If you are organising a children’s birthday party, wedding reception, prom or summer fair during 2013, why not add some vintage style fun by booking a sweet table from local company Love is Sweet. You can choose from a mouth-watering selection of traditional sweets all of which will be displayed pick and mix style on a Love is sweet display table. Standard party package rates are detailed on their website or a bespoke service can be arranged for smaller or larger parties.

Mention Families Suffolk magazine at the time off booking to receive a 10% discount.

07732 794646 www.sweet-tables.co.uk find us on FacebookSweet Tables -Love Is Sweet

We Have a Voice

Clothes and beauty under one roof

...is a multi–media platform made up of magazine, web-site, radio and music projects, where the content has all been created by young people with Autistic Spectrum Disorders, ADHD or Mental Health Issues. The platform allows the Young People to share what their lives are like and the challenges they face, and encourages others to increase their knowledge and understanding.

Established Ipswich clothes shop New Lady Prentice is now run by Lisa Clutten who has run the beauty and tanning shop business situated next door for the last 10 years. Although New Lady Prentice has been refurbished Lisa is keen to let everyone know that they still use all the same stockists and suppliers and still specialise in clothes for the older lady.

Run by the social enterprise Autism and ADHD, and sponsored by Suffolk New College, ‘We Have a Voice’ offers organisations, schools, colleges, universities, social workers and any organisation that engages with young people a membership package that, depending on the level they sign up to, will give that organisation training opportunities, support, and the chance to contribute to the ‘We Have a Voice’ project directly. They will also receive copies of the magazine and access to all other content. Individuals and families can also become members.

If you are interested in becoming a member of the ‘We Have A Voice’ project and would like further information please contact: Annie Clements 07794086316

They offer a free delivery service and also have an alteration service. They are happy to offer clothes parties to any event to display their clothing and will leave 10% of the parties takings on the day.

The shop also sells accessories such as scarfs, bags, boots, plus slippers, a range of nightwear and a small selection of menswear.

The beauty salon now offers a full range of treatments including manicures, pedicures eyelash extensions, teeth whitening, tinting, waxing, and facials.

They have installed a new tanning machine and all tanning courses are half price until 28th February plus they are offering a £5 off voucher when you spend over £40 in the shop.

01473 718882 or out of hours 07588079250.

Kidzone Creche now at Ipswich Sports Club After a very successful open day with over 80 children attending the event Kidzone n at Ips Ipswic wich h spor ssports ports ts clu club, b, Hen Henley ley are happy to announce that their crèche is open Ipswich Road on Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturday mornings 10- 12pm. Alternative activities for school aged children on Saturdays mornings and during school holidays are also on offer.

The crèche is open to both members and non-members offering flexibility for parents/ carers to use the crèche for either one or two hourly sessions whilst using the clubs facilities, exercise classes, hair & beauty or just simply having a drink with a friend.

Sessions will be charged at £2.50 per hourly sion fo forr nonn on mem member berss also also of offer fering ing session for members and £3.25 per hourly session non-members offering discounted prices for block bookings of 6 sessions or more.

For more information or to book a crèche place please call Kidzone on 07756535059 - 07724114794 or alternatively Kidzone welcome visits on any crèche morning at Ipswich Sports Club.

Suffolk Babies now in print.

Suffolk Babies website, the local website created and launched in January 2012 by local mum Katie Mackenzie has grown to now include a quarterly free magazine to not only introduce parents-to-be to the amazing and varied range of support and activities available, from conception through to toddlerhood but to help parents of babies and toddlers in Suffolk to find things to do with their baby or toddler.

Copies of the first issue are available through children’s centres or you can view online www.suffolkbabies.co.uk.

The second issue is due out in February.

Half Term Woodland Fun Foxburrow Farm near Woodbridge is offering some fantastic woodland fun to look forward to over the February half term. Tuesday 19th offers 2 hours of a family woodland adventure which involves eing animal detectives, playing with mud, building dens and fire lighting. Wednesday 20 th offers 1015year old children the opportunity to develop tool skills to collect timber for shelter building, fire lighting without a match and charcoal making. Friday 22nd they are holding a treasure quest for 6 – 10 year olds which involves following clues to discover the hidden treasure and enter a miniature world.

If you have any local news you would like included in the next issue please email editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk Register now for Families Suffolk newsletter - more articles, readers offers and parenting news not in the magazine, emailed out to you inbetween issues so you never miss out on any Families Suffolk information. www.familiesonline.co.uk/ user/register

All events have to be booked in advance – for bookings, costs or any event information: Foxburrow Farm, Melton, Woodbridge 01394 380113 www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org

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

Postnatal Depression – Don’t sit alone, stand together and be supported. By Shelley Brinkley Postnatal depression is more common than many people realize. It is estimated around one-in-seven women experience some level of depression in the first three months after giving birth, but many cases can often go undiagnosed. Babytalks local columnist Shelley Brinkley shares her own experience.

Don’t sit alone, stand together and be supported. I wish this statement had been said to me after the birth of my son. Already a mum to my little girl and loving it I couldn’t wait for my son to be born. Since the birth of my daughter, motherhood had seemed like a dream come true and I couldn’t wait to do it all again.

Unfortunately after the birth if my son things weren’t how I had expected them to be.

After experiencing a PPH (bleed after birth) I was very tired and quite spaced out. During those first few days with my son I felt numb and didn’t really feel like any of it was real.

I kept telling myself, you’re just tired, it will get better. Unfortunately for me it didn’t, I just got better at hiding it. I didn’t feel about my son like I did about my daughter when she was born. I loved him and cared for him but I didn’t feel happy about it all. I didn’t feel proud of him and started to stay at home more. I became paranoid about how others would see me and started to find my daughter difficult to cope with. I couldn’t see the future, just the present, swamped under with children, breastfeeding and housework. I felt hopeless and worth nothing. Constantly convinced that my husband was about to leave me and that my children would be better off without me. This went on for about 3 months until one day I shut myself in the kitchen crying and called my husband at work. I told him I was a terrible mother and didn’t deserve the children. How I couldn’t cope and I wanted him to take them away!

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

"This course was

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

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

This was a turning point for me. Although my husband, someone who has never struggled with depression before, found it hard to understand, he knew this wasn’t my normal behaviour, he knew I wasn’t just having a bad day. He told me he had seen things weren’t quite right but didn’t know what was wrong. He said he remembered coming into the hospital and me not wanting to hold our son much and thinking it was strange, but just like me putting it down to the tiredness. He started doing more around the house for me and I booked a doctors appointment. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do, admitting I couldn’t cope and motherhood wasn’t perfect. But I did and I’m so glad. I received help from both my GP and the charity MIND. I also attended a 7 week self help course which really helped. My confidence slowly grew and I did come out of my depression.

I have since had another baby, a little girl and I am happy to say that this time the depression has not appeared, although myself and my husband would know exactly what to do if it did.

It is really important that people talk about post natal depression so that others realise it does happen, it’s ok and you will get through it with support. It is not your fault and you will get better. Here are the main signs and symptoms to look out for;

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Low mood for a long period of time Irritable Emotional Panic attacks Lack of concentration and motivation Lack of interest in your new baby and yourself Feeling alone Difficulty sleeping or feeling constantly tired Tension – headaches, stomach pains or blurred vision Decrease in appetite or increased appetite Reduced sex drive Feeling useless, worthless and guilty Feeling overwhelmed with situations Unrealistic expectations of motherhood

If you are concerned about yourself or anyone you know I encourage you to seek advice. Whether it be talking to friends/family, a heath visitor or your GP, the help is out there.

I now work with the Charity PANDAS running a weekly support group for PND at my local children’s centre. It feels great to be able to help others knowing what they have been going through. PANDAS also offer telephone help line open 7 days a week for anyone suffering pre/post natal depression.

Daisy Baby™ Postnatal movement, baby massage and yoga. Enjoy baby movement and baby calming with a unique approach and lots of ‘in arms’ time.

For more information and classes near you Contact Shelley on 07761 345897 email shelley@lazydaisybirthing.co.uk

www.thelazydaisychain.co.uk

www.familiessuffolk.co.uk

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Chris West runs and coaches Little Kickers Football classes for children aged 2 to 5 year olds and Xtra Time Sports Development sessions for 5-16 year olds.

Favourite day out?

We love as a family to enjoy days out all together, we love visiting Woodbridge and walking along the river to feed the ducks and play in the park. The children love to take their bikes and stretch their legs and we often end the day with a lovely meal at the Duke of York which is a very friendly pub with great food.

Proudest eco-friendly moment?

We have solar panels in the house and find them very good as we save on our energy bills and its eco friendly.

Best planet saving tip?

We have taken to putting foil behind the radiators after watching super scrimpers.

No parent should be without?

Scrap paper and glue, it keeps the children amused for hours and gets their imaginations flowing.

Favourite family holiday spot?

Chris and his partner Sarah Frost who helps run the business live in Felixstowe. Sarah has two children Lily and Leon who are 5 years and 3 and a half years and currently due a new addition in January 2013.

We love Cornwall, the beaches are great and we always find it a fun holiday that doesn’t break the bank. We love camping.

Best children’s book?

We are going on a bear hunt by Michael Rosen & Helen Oxenbury. All the family can join in.

Best children DVD or video?

Why you like living where you do?

I love Felixstowe as it is a very friendly area and I have lived here all my life. The greatest thing is being so close to the seaside for the children and the lovely family walks we enjoy together and sometimes a bag of chips.

Favourite shop?

The children love CBeebies Mister Maker as they are very keen on art and making bits and bobs.

Most played with toys?

Most successful recipe/food?

Favourite park?

Most embarrassing moment?

Favourite children’s club/class?

The Sausage Shop, 290 High Road, Trimley St Martin, Felixstowe, IP11 0RH 01394 277203 www.therealsausageshop.co.uk Felixstowe Leisure Centre, Seafront, Felixstowe, IP11 2AE 01394 694600 www.dcleisurecentres.co.uk/centres/ felixstowe-leisure-centre/ The Duke Of York, Ipswich Road, Woodbridge, IP12 4BY 01394 386347 www.vintageinn.co.uk/ thedukeofyorkwoodbridge/

If you would like to speak to Chris regarding Little Kickers or Xtra Time classes you can do so via their website www.littlekickers.co.uk

In our house it would be a cardboard box, the kids have endless fun with them.

The Sausage shop as they do everything from sausages to spare ribs which are great for BBQs in the summer. We also use our local corner shop (Farmlands) for the odd items that we run out of.

We love the park round Faulkners Way as it is nearby and the children enjoy it and its right near the sweetie shop!!!!

If you would like to visit any of the places mentioned please find the contact details listed below:

Being a busy family we love our slow cooker, our favourite meal is chicken korma with chick peas as it is a winner all round and nice and easy.

Things the children say in public places.

Favourite child friendly restaurant?

The Duke Of York, Woodbridge. Great food and very family friendly

Besides the children loving football they also enjoy swimming at the Felixstowe Leisure Centre and we are very pleased with the progress they are making.

A moment for reflection

…… by Sonia Richards DIP COUNS

or us all Christmas is over for another year. The tree and decorations are taken down, the decorations put away and F the cards recycled. So what feelings are we left with? Was it the Christmas we wanted? Was it the Christmas we deserved? Were we all happy families?

I wonder about the feeling of disappointment, that all too familiar feeling w when expectations were high but all too often we feel let down. The handbag or pair of shoes that we wanted never materialised instead we got another saucepan, or knife block. Do we smile and say thank you, or do we actually say this is not what I w wanted? In the bigger scheme are we able tto say this is not the Christmas I wanted?

How often is disappointment the most prevailing feeling, and is it that is just highlighted at Christmas? Does Chritsmas bring home just how difficult it is for life to hold what we think we deserve? Or in some cases better that we think we deserve?

My experience working as a psychotherapist is that most families are

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struggling at some level. Christmas highlights this. Working with patients in some of the more deprived areas it is so easy to see why life is difficult. There is little or no family support and little or no money. But why is it that seemingly wealthy people who appear to have it all also suffer?

Interestingly as Prince Charles so aptly put it no matter how wealthy one is on the outside it is the inside that matters. He called it Inner Impoverishment.

The feeling that no matter how many handbags or shoes one has, it feels as if it is never enough. The impoverishment is internal, it is about an emotional impoverishment and it cannot be assuaged by any amount of possessions or handbags.

So after Christmas has been and gone what are your memories? Are they of the things you didn’t get, or are they of the smiles through gritted teeth? If we are left with the feeling of disappointment what can be changed for next year? Because if we want something to change the only person that can do that is ourselves.

So if next year we want Christmas to be the one we have always yearned for, perhaps we may need to look within and see if we have the power to change it for ourselves and our children.

Email us your thoughts on this reflection: editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk If you would like to speak with Sonia in connection with her Psychotherapist & Counseling work you can contact her via her website: www.soniarichards.co.uk

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

Ormiston Children and Families Trust In East Anglia today there are too many children and young people living on the edge of society, facing the risk of social exclusion. Many families in the region live in poverty, fear and despair, and children are growing up in environments in which neglect, domestic abuse and drug and alcohol abuse are rife.

Young people are also facing more stigma today than ever before.

Negative media representations and stereotypes of Gypsy culture means Traveller families are subjected to more racial hatred than ever before, and bullying reduces a child’s chances of staying in school. Meanwhile, thousands of children are suffering from the imprisonment of a parent or loved one, experiencing feelings of loneliness, guilt and shame.

That is where Ormiston comes in; East Anglia’s leading children’s charity for 30 years. Its vision is of a world in which every child is loved, nurtured and valued; identifying and responding to the needs of children, whatever challenges they face.

Ormiston works with the most desperate children and families in the region, operating over 40 services across six counties. These include support for families affected by imprisonment, parenting programmes, inclusion initiatives for Gypsy and Traveller Communities, child and adolescent mental health services and children’s centres.

In Suffolk, Ormiston runs the visitor centres at HMP Highpoint North and South and HMP Blundeston, helping families to stay connected during the most challenging time of their lives. The charity also runs a Sure Start children’s centre in Ipswich, supporting families with children aged 0-5 by delivering health and parenting support, early years learning and providing parents and carers with access to employment and learning opportunities.

Ormiston has been working tirelessly to extend its support services and has recently launched three new services in Ipswich. Its Polish Outreach project aims to research and respond to the needs of the local Polish population; helping them to integrate into the community and access vital services.

Meanwhile the Ormiston Domestic Abuse Service offers support to women on a one-to-one basis, working with victims to increase their confidence and self-esteem and reducing their isolation. Another service the charity has just set up is the M-Power project, which is aimed at mothers who have had children taken into local authority care. Ormiston works with these women also offering them support and helping them to cope in the aftermath, but also making provisions to try and avoid patterns repeating themselves.

In Newmarket the charity is in the process of setting up ‘The Final Furlong Project’, where it will provide a range of accredited parenting programmes and oneto-one support for parents, carers and young people in Newmarket schools.

To find out more about Ormiston, visit www.ormiston.org or call 01473 724517

Suffolk Teenagers need Suffolk Foster Carers!

rules and it was strange for me, I didn’t like it, it was also strange that my washing was done every weekend and I had regular showers. As you can imagine when Christmas came I was sooo excited, my first Christmas with my carers was brilliant, I remember waking up to a huge sack of presents, then having Christmas dinner followed by lots of fun and games

Today in Suffolk there are around 750 children in care. Over half of these are aged 10 or over.

I then moved to upper school where I saw it as an opportunity to start all over again, I didn’t tell my friends I was in care, not because I was ashamed, just because I didn’t want to be treated any differently to anyone else.

I was naughty at first but after I had settled in at home my school work picked up and I was doing very well. I then went on to do my G.C.S.E’s and gained some good results, it was a great achievement for me.

Emily came into foster care when she was 12.

“I didn’t have a very good childhood, my mum left me when I was just 2 years old and my dad and step mum had serious drug problems so all money they received went towards feeding their habits, not feeding their children. Our house was a complete tip, there where stains all over the carpets, walls and sofas, dirty needles everywhere. We had no soap, washing powder, shampoo...nothing. I also never bathed or washed and always had dirty clothes, I was bullied all through primary school and most of middle school because I was dirty.

I saw things that no young child should have to see like people being stabbed, people overdosing and people injecting themselves.

I now live in a flat with my friend. I have my career in business admin and I am doing very well.

Because of my strong mind and my foster carers help I achieved what I wanted in life, I’ve got my career, my flat, a boyfriend and to top it all I still see my foster carers regularly too.”

Supporting a young person in care is not without its challenges. You need lots of patience, resilience, flexibility, and a sense of humour. You need to not take things personally.

My foster carers were so good though and they were very understanding.

However, with support and encouragement a young person can be helped to like and respect themselves for the very first time, and be able to move positively into their adult life. The rewards for a foster carer can be tremendous. Emily’s carers say “It’s great to know Emily is now doing well and we like to think that some of this was down to us being there for her when she was at her most vulnerable. It takes time and a lot of hard work, but seeing them take small strides forward make’s it all worth it” Do you have experience of parenting or working with teenagers?

Could you help a young person like Emily?

It was so weird for me to be in a routine, I’d never had that before, I was free to do what I wanted at home but in my foster home there where

If so we would really like to hear from you.

Call us on 0800 328 2148 or visit www.suffolkfostering.com

As for Christmas and birthdays, well, they were non existent! I would wake up on Christmas day and there would be strangers sleeping on the sofa.

The funny thing is I thought this was normal.

When I was 12 I was told that me and my sister were going into care. I was devastated, I didn’t know what to do, the thought of living with strangers was terrifying.. I was a terror at first, I even ran away, I didn’t want to go home but didn’t want to be there either.

www.familiessuffolk.co.uk

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Is a nursery right for your child (and you)

By Joanna Moorhead

I

n days of tighter funds, nurseries seem expensive - but they have lots of benefits for children, and they can still be the right choice for you Is a nursery the right choice for you?

How to reduce nursery costs

Studies show, though, that attending nursery can increase a child’s confidence, because it involves mixing with adults, and other children, from outside the family group. It gives children social skills, and experience from an early age of an environment outside the home. The nursery ‘key worker’ scheme, under which each child is allocated a special member of staff with whom they can bond, helps provide security.

The government is currently considering cutting staff-to-child ratios in nurseries as a way of reducing what many see as unsustainable prices - but the move is controversial, and organisations such as the Preschool Learning Alliance is warning such a change could risk children’s safety and well-being. Under current regulations, there must be one staff member for every three under-twos, and one for every four children aged two and three.

Healthy food and menus are another big plus of nursery provision: staff work hard to ensure children are given a balanced diet. And as your child gets older, play and learning opportunities will be targeted appropriately: staff are trained in what young children can do when, and will be conscious of a child’s likely interests and potential.

Nurseries work best for parents who have regular working hours, because it’s difficult or impossible for staff to deal with erratic patterns of collection and drop-off: nurseries often open early in the morning and some close late in the evening, but they are not as flexible as, say, a nanny or a childminder. On the other hand, they have the big advantage that only very, very rarely will they be closed at short notice - so they’re more reliable than one carer who may be ill or have to cope with a sudden family emergency.

They may be prohibitively expensive if you have more than one child, although many nurseries do offer a sibling reduction. But if you can fit around its opening hours, if your budget stretches to the fees, and if you like the idea of a social environment and a place with plenty of activities and trained carers, a nursery could be the place for your child and for you.

Most nurseries provide funded places for three and four year olds under the government Free Early Education scheme, which will start from the beginning of the term (1 September, 1 January or 1 April) after your child’s third birthday. If your child is younger, check whether your employer can offer help towards your nursery costs through the childcare voucher scheme. Under this, money is taken out of your pay packet before deductions, giving you savings on tax and National Insurance - in return, you are given a voucher or e-voucher that you forward to your nursery, and the amount is deducted from your bill. So it’s a way of getting more childcare for your money - though it requires your employer’s co-operation.

How to choose the right nursery Start your nursery search well ahead of the time when you’re actually going to need to leave your child: the more confident you are of the choices you make, the happier you’ll be when it comes to the day you have to head back to the office. Ask around so you get other parents’ views on what nurseries are like in your area. Make a shortlist of ones that might work for you (remember to take geography into account: how easy will it be for

Picture credit: © MNStudio - Fotolia.com

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you and/or your partner to do the drop off/collect?) and don’t hesitate to ask to visit a second time.

Make sure you read the most recent Ofsted inspection report for the nurseries you are considering, and ask whether they have any awards of excellence. Be guided by your instincts when looking at a nursery: it may seem a cliché to say do the children look happy, but it is an important barometer of whether a nursery is good. Be aware of the quality of both indoor and outdoor play areas: are the spaces pleasant, bright, welcoming, and do they seem safe? Ask about meals, how the food is prepared, and what time meals are served. Are you able to provide input for your child’s food - suggestions for what s/he would like to eat, or recipes? What kinds of snacks are provided and how often are they available?

Watch the children while they’re playing, and pay attention to how much they’re interacting with the staff. How do the staff come across - do they seem happy, relaxed, fun to be around? Do you feel comfortable talking to them? Do they seem interested in your child and his/her likes/dislikes and interests?

Ask about organised play sessions - weekly music groups, perhaps, or storytelling. Are there trips to the library, and to the park? How are these organised, and how often do they take place?

Make sure you understand what the nursery charges, how payment is made, and exactly what the fees include (for example, do they cover meals, nappies, outings). How many weeks a year is the nursery open?

How are parents involved in the nursery, and are there opportunities for parents to meet up? p p

Picture credit: © sdenness - Fotolia.com

Is all well when I’m not there?

Some nurseries have webcams which allow parents to see live images of their child at play from their desk at work. But while some parents welcome this idea, others are sceptical - they say they want their child’s nursery to know they trust its workers, and worry that they’ll be seen as a way of spying on care workers. Others say they like the idea of watching their child at play so much that they’d spend too much time doing it - and wouldn’t ever get any work done!

As your child is settling into nursery, trust your instincts about how well it’s going. You know your child better than anyone else, so if your hunch is that your child is happy and contented , that’s almost certainly the case.

Remember that in the early days, he or she will probably get more tired than usual -nursery is a big change, emotionally as well as physically.

Both your child and you need time to adjust to the new set-up.

Try not to drag out your goodbyes: leaving your child will be difficult, especially at first, but keeping it brief will help you both. Remember that your child may cry every day when you drop them off (and so might you!) for quite a while; this is a normal part of getting used to this big change in your lives. Cope with it by emphasising the positives: think about why you’re working (to make money and provide a better standard of living; to ensure you have an interesting life, and income, in the longer term) and how much your child will benefit from a wider social network.

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

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Health Feature Cycle your way to a healthy new year If you fancy getting fit this year but you’re not a huge fan of the gym, why don’t you consider cycling?

Suffolk is the perfect county for cycling and offers some of the UK’s most beautiful coastal and countryside routes.

And because there aren’t too many hills it’s suitable for beginners or less experienced cyclists yet still offers a wealth of interesting and challenging routes for the more adventurous.

Cycle Suffolk are featuring some of these routes on their website for you to try and with hundreds of youngsters getting bikes for Christmas, it’s also a perfect way to spend time with your family.

But if you want to cycle and you don’t like the thought of going out in the cold, they’ve also arranged a series of Watt Bike evenings in January and February with local cycling clubs.

Watt Bikes are a great alternative to outdoor cycling, with an interactive exercise bike that records a rider’s performance, including speed, distance, cadence and power output. The Watt Bikes can be connected to a big screen to host a fun, social virtual riding/racing event. They are designed to be suitable for beginners and experienced cyclists alike, and you just need to take along your own refreshments and enthusiasm.

The evenings are generally about 1-2 hours and are open to club and non-club members.

There are evenings planned in Stowmarket, Ipswich, Hadleigh, Bury and Sudbury and if you would like to attend one of these or you would like to arrange an evening in your village or rural community please contact Joseph Young, Cycle Suffolk Project Coordinator on joseph.young@suffolksport.com 01394 444590 / 07920 861819.

Change something and increase your confidence in 2013.

By Melanie Collings Are you thinking about the future? If there is something you would like to change about yourself, now is a good time to start thinking about how to do it.

You can lose weight, stop smoking and overcome habits and unhelpful ways of thinking which are making you unhappy.

If you lack confidence at work or in relationships; if you find it difficult to control your emotions or you quite often feel angry and unhappy you can learn why you are this way and what to do about it.

I can help you, whatever your goals are and whatever you want to change.

Hypnosis is a very gentle form of relaxation, which sets good habits in place and can help you resolve anxiety which can be the root of nervous habits and compulsions.

The ‘Thrive programme’ is a training course which helps you to understand how your thinking and beliefs about yourself, are stopping you from living a really happy life; free from anxiety and self doubt.

Children and teenagers respond really well to the ‘Blowaway’ which is particularly good for boosting self confidence and overcoming anxiety. Children can find difficult experiences and strong emotions, quite overwhelming.

I offer an Initial Consultation which is free of charge, so that you can find out more about me and how I can help you, without obligation.

If you have found this article interesting and would like to find out more about Melanie and her work including client testimonials check out the website:

www.melaniecollingshypnotherapy.co.uk alternatively you can call or email Melanie 07855 798 789 melanie@melaniecollingshypnotherapy.co.uk Melanie has offered Families Suffolk readers a discount from her Stop Smoking session view www.familiessuffolk.co.uk/offers

Visual Stress – help for parents A new source of help and advice is now available from East of England Co-op opticians, for parents whose children may be affected by visual stress, a condition which can lead to difficulties with reading.

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Henry Sessions, Branch Manager and Dispensing Optician at the Ipswich Optical Branch, said that Colorimetric testing, which up to now has only been available from hospitals or by referral, works by finding the specific colour that helps a person’s reading become more fluent, efficient and comfortable.

“The exact colour is selected to suit each individual using something called a Colorimeter. The range of colours is vast and precision tinted lenses or overlays can be made to match exactly the hue and saturation of the optimum colour found with the Colorimeter.

“Between four and five per cent of the population are diagnosed with dyslexia, which means more than 232,000 people in the region could benefit from specialist colorimetric lenses.

Colorimetric testing has also proved helpful for people suffering from ‘visual stress’ – which is sensitivity to patterns, particularly stripes, which can cause visual perceptual problems.

“Visual stress is more common in individuals who are dyslexic and often misdiagnosed as dyslexia, ‘visual stress’ can affect even individuals with perfect eyesight. Common symptoms include ‘moving’ or blurring of text, tiring easily when reading and visual discomfort.

“Colorimetric testing has previously only been offered at hospitals or on a referral basis, so our newly trained staff will offer direct access to adults and children with ‘visual stress’ or dyslexia helping to improve the fluency and accuracy of their reading.”

A full eye examination by an optometrist who also specialises in Colorimetry is needed before prescribing precision tinted lenses. Colorimetric testing is available in the Society’s Ipswich Store, for more information about your nearest outlet visit www.eastofengland.coop/opticians.

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

Health Feature Gluten Sensitivity and Coeliac Disease – is your child affected?

By nutrionist Christine Bailey The prevalence of Coeliac Disease has increased five-fold overall since 1974 (1). Yet testing for the condition has been plagued with difficulties and inaccuracies especially in children. Nutritionist Christine Bailey who specialises in digestive disorders and allergies in children discusses new tests available and the signs and symptoms to look out for.

Coeliac Disease (CD) is one of the most common lifelong diseases in both Europe and the US (2). Its prevalence is estimated at around 1% of the population (3). This equates to approximately 3 million Americans and 620 000 people in the UK. The problem is that it is seriously under-diagnosed especially in children. Approximately 78% of sufferers don’t realise they have the disease – in fact only 10-20% have been diagnosed (4). What is also shocking is that there has been an increase in its prevalence over the last 50 years – one study suggested CD has increased by up to 400 percent (5) (elevated Tissue Transglutaminase TTG antibodies). While classic symptoms include diarrhoea, intestinal bloating and stomach cramps the majority of people including children do not experience any digestive symptoms making detection harder. Left untreated, it can lead to the malabsorption of nutrients, damage to the small intestine and other medical complications.

Coeliac Disease is an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten, which is found in certain foods (wheat, barley and rye). It is a life long condition and requires the complete avoidance of all foods and drinks containing gluten. If your child has coeliac disease, eating gluten will cause a reaction in their bodies that damages or destroys the villi (small projections in the intestines that help us absorb nutrients).

When this occurs, the surface of the small intestine is flattened and a child’s body can’t absorb vitamins and nutrients from food.

You’re not necessarily born with coeliac disease, - although the condition is linked to certain genetic markers there is normally an environmental trigger that causes the immune system to lose tolerance to gluten.

For children it can be particularly difficult to diagnose – classic blood tests are accurate only when the villi are severely damaged and in children this may not have occurred. However if left undiagnosed it can lead to development of other autoimmune conditions as well as affecting the growth and development and overall health later in life.

Signs and Symptoms Because symptoms in children are often subtle and mimic other intestinal diseases, like Irritable Bowel Syndrome or lactose intolerance, the disease is often difficult to diagnose. Some children experience symptoms the first time they are exposed to gluten, while others develop symptoms later in life.

Typical symptoms include: • Diarrhoea, constipation • Abdominal pain • Poor appetite • A bloated or painful belly, gas, flatulence • Weight loss or difficulty gaining weight These symptoms can begin during infancy (between 6 and 24 months), after the child begins to eat gluten-containing foods.

Additional symptoms, which may develop later, include: • • • • • • • • • •

Slowed growth, failure to thrive Iron deficiency anaemia, fatigue, low energy Skin rash – dermatitis herpetiformis Tooth enamel changes Bone thinning Joint aches and pains Headaches Mouth ulcers Mood changes, depression Delay in menstruation

If your child is diagnosed with coeliac disease it is important they receive nutritional advice to help with planning a gluten free diet, ensuring they are optimally nourished and also to ensure their gut heals. In many cases nutritional supplements will be recommended. While there are obvious sources of gluten such as breads, pastas, flours, cereals, cakes and biscuits. It is often used as an ingredient in many favourite foods such as fish fingers, sausages, gravies, sauces and soy sauce. Working with a qualified nutritionist can help you plan a healthy gluten free diet. However in some cases simply removing gluten may not be sufficient as many children with Coeliac Disease also react to other foods such as dairy so additional testing and support may be needed.

For further information about testing, nutritional support, cookery days and recipes contact Christine Bailey www.advancenutrition.co.uk For text references www.familiessuffolk.co.uk/GlutenSensitivity

Contact us now to find out more If there is a family history of autoimmune conditions and / or coeliac disease then it is recommended you get your child tested. Until recently this would involve a standard blood test from the GP to look for a range of antibodies. (e.g IgA anti-gliadin antibodies, IgG anti-gliadin antibodies, IgA anti-endomysial antibodies, Tissue transglutaminase antibody and total IgA antibodies). If positive, an Intestinal biopsy is often performed. The trouble is these are not particularly accurate (6) and blood tests can be distressing for children. Thankfully there are new private laboratory tests, involving saliva collection. This is not only sensitive and accurate but also easier to undertake for young children. There are also more comprehensive blood tests, which are available privately for older children. Even if your child does not appear to be showing any symptoms (see list below) if you have a family history of the coeliac disease it is recommended you get your children tested for the genetic markers (HLA DQ2/8). This blood test will identify whether or not your child has the genetic markers that make it more likely they will develop the disease if they continue to eat gluten. Ask your practitioner or qualified nutritionist for the most appropriate tests for your family.

0800 328 2148 www.suffolkfostering.com

Thinking about fostering teenagers?

Ery e v ye r th a r e e r e a v e o r1 0 t e a g n rs in S e f u lk o th a e n fo d r te s n i g short or long term. Giving back has never been so rewarding.

All foster carers will receive allowances, training and 24 hour support.

A competitive skills based fee paid scheme is available for more experienced carers.

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

www.familiessuffolk.co.uk

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Last year’s summer of sport produced some of the country’s finest and most memorable sporting moments in history and left us all feeling very proud to be British.

Figures released in December by Sport England show that 15.5 million of us are playing sport once a week.

That’s 1.57 million more than when London won the Olympic and Paralympic bid.

So how do we keep this enthusiasm for sport and activity going?

The Most Active County campaign has been established in Suffolk by the key organisations and agencies specifically to build on the momentum of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games to promote healthy active lifestyles, shift inactive behaviours and address barriers that communities or individuals face in accessing sport and physical activity.

How to get involved Suffolk already has many great sports facilities and clubs as well as beautiful open spaces and parks plus idyllic walking and cycling routes.

And this year the county will host several mass participation events such as the Great East Swim, Ipswich Half Marathon, Tesco Great School Run, School Games and further Park Runs to name just a few.

Suffolk Sport’s website - www.suffolksport.com - has a comprehensive list of Suffolk sports clubs as well as lots of information about governing bodies, projects such as Fit Villages and Cycle Suffolk and links to various sports facilities. For details of walking, cycling and outdoor activities in Suffolk visit the Discover Suffolk website at www.discoversuffolk.org.uk.

So get everyone in your family moving this year. Walk, run, cycle, swim, take a class, try the gym, dance, do exercise from your armchair or get back into a sport that you haven’t done for years. Let’s stop making excuses and start enjoying the feelings of well-being which will come with an active lifestyle.

Although Suffolk now has 13,292 more adults playing sport compared to last year there is still much to do. With over 50% of the population still doing no sport or active recreation we mustn’t under-estimate the challenge that faces us.

London 2012 inspired activities and projects that can be pointed to as having contributed to the rise in activity amongst Suffolk adults include the Great East Swim (6,000 people have taken part to date), Tour Ride (1,500), Ipswich Half-Marathon (3,300), Suffolk Disability Sport Academy, the new Ipswich Park Run, Sportivate (3,000 to date), Inspired Facilities Fund (£500,000 funding secured for Suffolk facilities).

The Facts: •

50% of adults in Suffolk do no sport or active recreation.

•

Physical inactivity causes 6-10% of the major non-communicable diseases.

•

1,000 lives are lost every year in Suffolk due to physical inactivity.

•

The health cost of physical inactivity in Suffolk is £12.2 million per year.

•

22.9% of adults and 15.7% of children in Suffolk are obese.

•

An older person remaining active in Suffolk and independent at home defers £11,500 per year from social care costs.

•

Reducing falls in Suffolk by 10% would realise £2million in savings annually.

•

Physical activity reduces the risk of mental disorders including depression, cognitive decline and dementia and improves selfperception of mental well-being, increases self-esteem, lowers likelihood of sleep disorders and enables a better ability to cope with stress.

3,021 more people are volunteering to support sport for at least one hour a week compared to last year. This is the equivalent of at least 157,000 hours of volunteering to support sport in Suffolk every year.London 2012 inspired activities that can be pointed to as having contributed to this increase include the Suffolk 2012 Volunteering Legacy Project and Sport Makers, the Sport England Olympic Legacy Project. If you have been inspired to get involved in volunteering at sport and cultural events in Suffolk why not join the County Events Team. Visit www.suffolkvolunteeringlegacy.org.uk for further information.

So there is a part to play for all of us in helping to make Suffolk England’s most active county and wouldn’t it be good to feel proud to say that you live in the most active county in England?

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Mothers to be - win a treatment from Image Beauty Salon, Ipswich Sue Carter the owner of Image Beauty decided to invest in couch especially designed for pregnant women as she has two children and knows how uncomfortable abl ble e tthe he las lastt trim ttrimester rimest ester er can be be..

Fluffy Friends Start saving money in 2013 at Gladwells Pet & Country Store.

Located in Copdock village, the store stocks a huge range of pet and animal food, and bedding, in all pack sizes. We also stock a huge range of accessories for all your pets at fantastic prices. So if it’s a bag of food for Hammy your hamster or a treat for Derrick the rabbit, make Gladwells Pet & Country Store your one stop shop for your pet supplies this season. For 10% off all your retail small animal purchases simply quote “Families” when making your purchase. With ample parking, help to load if required, and knowledgeable staff, shopping for your pets has never been so easy.

Forgotten to get Dale the reptile a gift over Christmas? It’s not too late, we now stock a huge range of vivarium’s and accessories for reptiles and tortoise. We also stock a large range of food with fantastic offers available every week.

Now it is possible pregnant woman position ossi ssible ble fo forr preg p regnan nantt woma w oman n to to rela rrelax elax x in in a fa face ce dow down n posi p ositi tio during a massage and have a comfortable leg wax. Built on a solid reinforced frame the couch has two recesses for the breasts and one large recess for the bump. It is quite safe for pregnant women to have a massage it relaxes both mother and baby. At Image you are in safe hands, their senior therapists have had extensive training in massage techniques for mother and baby.

Their therapists will guide you as to which oils and products are safe in each trimester of the pregnancy so baby and mother are in very safe hands.

To win a massage at Image visit www.familiessuffolk.co.uk/competitions and answer the question: what type of classes are on offer at the salon? (tip: check out page 3 for help ) Terms and conditions apply. Closing date: 28th February 2013

Outdoor wear for all eventualities, a complete floor stacked with bargains in fishing tackle and equipment, Country Clothing, Equine wear and much more. Gladwells Pet & Country Store, 100 years of serving Ipswich and the surrounding communities.

Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/gladwellspetcountrystores or visit www.copdockmill.co.uk and follow the link to the country stores.

Discount is available on retail purchases only until Saturday 26th January 2013 and is not transferable.

Small animal discount applies to Rabbit, Hamster, Guinea Pig, Rat, Mouse, Reptile, Ferret, and Chinchilla.

For all your pet and animal needs. Ample parking with help to load if required.

Fishing Bait & Accessories Country Clothing Essential Equestrian Clothing Pet & Animal Feed Pet & animal accessories Poultry Range Reptile Section 10% DISCOUNT ON ALL SMALL ANIMAL AND REPTILE FOOD AND ACCESSORIES. ENDS 26TH JANUARY 2013 Copdock Mill, Old London Rd, Copdock, Suffolk, IP8 3LA Tel: 01473 731117 Email: gladwells.copdock@copdockmill.co.uk www.facebook.com/gladwellspetcountrystores

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We try our best to ensure the information listed is correct, but please always check with the venue before setting out in case things have changed.

Theatre Guinness World Science Saturday 2nd February

Little Mix Thursday 21st February Ipswich Regent

Ipswich Regentt

For the first time ever, direct from its London HQ, Guinness World Records arrives on stage with its officially amazing, record-breaking, science mad, all new live show.

01473 433100 www.ipswichregent.com

Family Story Sessions Saturday 9th Feb Bury St Edmunds Theatre Royal

The hottest new girl band in the country Little Mix comes to Ipswich.

Age Restrictions: Under 14’s must be accompanied by an adult 01473 433100 www.ipswichregent.com

Farmers Markets

Lively and entertaining family stories that willl capture any imagination.

Age: suitable for 5 years and over.

01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org Why The Lion Danced Saturday 16th February New Wolsey Theatre All the excitement, colour and sounds of the Chinese New Year are brought to you in this inventive production featuring live music, song and dance by Yellow Earth, the award-winning British East Asian Theatre Company.

Suitable for ages 4+ This production is at the New Wolsey Studio, St. Georges Street, a five minute walk from the Main Theatre on Civic Drive.

01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk Under 12’s Comedy Sunday 17th February New Wolsey Theatre

Bury St Edmunds 2nd Sunday of every month 9am – 1pm, Whelnetham Community Centre, Bury St Edmunds.

Easton 4th Saturday of every month 9am – 1pm, Easton Farm Park.

Felixstowe 1st Saturday of every month 9am – 1pm, Trinity Methodist Church, Orwell rd, Felixstowe.

Jimmy’s Farm 1st Saturday of every month 9am – 1pm, Panning hall, Whersted, Ipswich.

Harkstead 3rd Saturday of every month 9am – 12 noon, Village Hall, Harkstead.

Ipswich 1st Saturday of every month 9am – 4pm, Corn Hill Exchange, Ipswich.

Needham Market 3rd Saturday of every month 9am – 1pm, Alder Carr Farm, Needham Market.

Snape Maltings 1st Saturday of every month 9.30am – 1pm, Snape Maltings.

Stowmarket 1st Friday of every month 9am – 1pm, Market Place, Stowmarket.

The Duke’s Headliners bring you stand up comedy for the Under 12’s. With a great selection of wacky and silly jokes, tailor made for kids.

Recommended for ages 8 – 12yrs 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

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Framlingham Castle - Family Fun Trail Church Street, Framlingham Sat 16 - Sun 24 Feb 2013, 11am-4pm Find the hidden clues to solve the puzzle and win a yummy prize. www.english-heritage.org.uk Forest Fun Foxburrow Farm, Woodbridge Tues 19 February 2013, 10.30am - 12.30pm A woodland adventure: being animal detectives, playing with mud, building dens and fire lighting.

Children and adults £2.50. Please book Tel 01394 380113 or email foxburrow@ suffolkwildlifetrust.org

OR RLD REC RECORD ORDS S - OF OFFIC FICIIA GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS OFFICIALLY AMAZING SCIENCE LIVE!

Age: Suitable for 7 -13 year olds

February Half Term Fun

Sudbury last Friday of every month 9.30am – 1pm, St Peter’s Church, Sudbury.

Woodbridge 2nd & 4th Saturday of every month 9am – 1pm, Community Centre, Woodbridge.

Creative Candles Christchurch Mansion Tues 19 – Wed 20 Feb 2013, Sessions at 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.15pm and 2.15pm Use special coloured moulding wax, cutters and your imagination to add your own intricate patterns and designs to a plain white candle and transform it into a work of art. Most suitable for age 5+. £3 per person To book your place phone 01473 433691 www.cimuseums.org.uk Planetarium Star Show Ipswich Museum Fri 22 February 2013, Shows at 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 2.15pm and 3.15pm Enter our special visiting astrodome and take an incredible virtual space flight from earth to the outer edges of our solar system. See distant planets and their moons, galaxies and comets! For ages 3+ only £3 per person. Please book.

01473 433691 www.cimuseums.org.uk Dunwich Forest Free Events Monday 18th Feb - ‘Exploration’ -Have fun discovering the woodland with all your senses.

Wednesday 20th Feb –‘Winter Survival’ - Get muddy, jump around and learn new survival skills Friday 22nd Feb – ‘Tracks and Trails’ – Can you be a nature detective ?

Sunday 24th Feb – ‘Celebration’ – Make music, decorate and feast !

All events are suitable for children aged 3 -12yrs: Family Forest Schools 11am -12.30 pm Dunwich Forest – Meet in the Suffolk Wildlife Trust car park grid ref TM467710 (car park/reserve entrance) Please book : 01473 890089 info@suffolkwildlifetrust. org

Farms Open for Half-Term Alder Carr Farm Creeting St. Mary, Ipswich 01449 720820 www.aldercarrfarm.co.uk The Chilli Company Farm Trail Norwich Road, Mendlesham.

01449 766 677 www.thechillicompany.com Baylham House Rare Breeds Farm Mill Lane, Baylham Open for half-term Lambing 01473 830264 www.baylham-house-farm.co.uk Easton Farm Park Easton, Woodbridge 01728 746475 www.eastonfarmpark.co.uk Hollow Trees Farm Shop Semer, Ipswich 01449 741247 www.hollowtrees.co.uk

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

Indoor Fun Birch Farm – Playbarn Hintlesham, Nr Ipswich The Activity Play Barn is a large indoor play space open EXCLUSIVELY to children 5 yrs and under.

01473 652152 www.birchfarm.co.uk CurveMotion, Bury St Edmunds CurveMotion is an exciting interactive venue in Bury St Edmunds.

01284 765168 www.curvemotion.com Funtasia, Felixstowe Children’s indoor play centre within Felixstowe leisure centre 01394 670411 www.dcleisurecentres.co.uk Kids Play, Bury St Edmunds Kids can brave the speedy drop slide, shoot the fun ball cannons and scramble through tunnels on the giant playframe, bounce on trampolines, dive into the ball pond or spin on the tyre swings – something for everyone.

01284 763799 www.wherekidsplay.co.uk Play2Day, Martlesham Play2Day has plenty of play for the most energetic children.

01473 611333 www.play2day.biz Playworld - Ocean Adventure Within Mid-Suffolk Leisure Centre 01449 674980 www.everyoneactive.com Snakes and Ladders, Ipswich Snakes and Ladders is a huge indoor playground filled to the brim with climbing frames, ball ponds, cargo nets and slides.

01473 255000 www.snakes-and-ladders.co.uk The Giggle Factory, Sudbury Children’s indoor playcentre in Sudbury.

01787 311143 www.thegigglefactory.co.uk Wacky Warehouse, Punch and Judy, Ipswich Great for wet days when you could do with an hour and the kids need a good run-around.

01473 210979 www.wackywarehouse.co.uk

Mums Date For The Diary Heart & Soul Ladies Evening Suffolk Food Hall, Wherstead Thur 28 Feb 2013, 6:30pm-11pm A fabulous evening of indulgence and entertainment whilst supporting The Dame Vera Lynn Trust, your local charity for children 0-5yrs with cerebral palsy and other physical disabilities. Lots of lovely stalls selling luxury goods and pamper stalls, a two course meal followed by coffee and mints, cooked by the professional chefs at the exciting new Suffolk venue, the Cookhouse restaurant. Plus you will be entertained by the talented performer MJSOUL who will soothe you with soul and then up the tempo so you can dance the night away!

Tickets are £35 each and can be purchased through Suffolk Food Hall restaurant or by contacting Sara on 01473 652880 or email sara.white@dvltrust.org.uk Nearly New Sale of Children’s Clothing, Toys and Equipment nt Saturday 9 March 2013, 10 am - 12 noon Tattingstone Village Hall p your children as Whether you are looking to buy for a new baby or equip e bargains. Sale they are growing, this will be a good chance to grab some is a fund-raiser for Tattingstone School.

For a sellers pack please contact Sarah 07803 252892, rookeryfarm.shop@btinternet.com

For more things to do & places to visit in Suffolk during the February Half Term Holiday visit

BESPOKE MADE TO MEASURE CURTAIN SERVICE Design and consultancy service available in Felixstowe and surrounding areas.

Offering a large selection of fabrics and designs, giving you a unique in house design for your home.

Visit us in store or call 01394 283186 3-5 Hamilton Rd FELIXSTOWE Suffolk IP11 7AX 12-14 Head St. COLCHESTER Essex CO1 1NY telephone: 01394 283186 email: info@fabric8online.co.uk web: www.fabric8online.co.uk FREE lining offered on bespoke curtains when this advert is presented in store. check store for terms and conditions

ACTIVITIES AT HOME WITH

If you’re thinking about your interior décor this winter, it would be worth considering the difference a new pair of curtains could make to your room, and your home overall. There are a few options when it comes to purchasing new window dressings, you can purchase ‘ready-made’ curtains and cross your fingers and toes that they’ll fit and hang correctly, (and let’s not mention the worry of the poor quality linings these products feature), you can buy ‘made to measure’ and supply the dimensions hoping you’ve given the appropriate measurements and considered over hang and gathering, or you could visit Fabric8 and have your home visited by one of our qualified staff, your window measured and your curtains made, delivered and even hung by our experts.

New curtains not only provide a beautiful frame to your windows, they enhance the entire look and feel of your home. Alongside their aesthetic benefits you can also expect increased energy efficiency over the winter months, particularly if you opt for thermal linings where appropriate.

At Fabric8 we’re dedicated to helping you create and style your home and your life with our selection of fabrics, tools and accessories that allow you to do so. With stores in both Felixstowe and Colchester, Fabric8 caters for customers of all experience levels and interests in crafting, knitting and sewing. Offering specialist knowledge through highly trained staff, the company is well equipped to support customer needs and give experienced advice. The stores offer a welcoming friendly atmosphere that promises not to intimidate the less experienced customers.

www.familiessuffolk.co.uk/thingstodoandplacestovisit sit

01394 283186 - www.fabric8online.co.uk www.familiessuffolk.co.uk

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Free

Assessment

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work to unlock your child’s potential, building their confidence and independent study skills. Take advantage of our Free Assessment and see how Kumon can benefit your child.

To unlock your child’s potential, contact your local Instructor for a Free Assessment.

Ipswich Central Ipswich South Stowmarket

01473 614 665 01206 863 242 01473 413 118 kumon.co.uk

Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

www.ipswich.gov.uk/sport

LET’S GET

SUFFOLK CYCLING www. cyclesuffolk .org

kick start your new year

one month free SIGN UP FOR TWO MONTHS AND GET THE THIRD MONTH FREE

Our all-inclusive fitness membership includes: • 4 Profiles gyms • Fitness classes • Swimming • Racket sports • Sauna/steam room

Family and couples memberships now available.

Swim and racket memberships also available.

Call 0800 0371 371 or call into any sports centre or Crown pools to have a look around.

Terms and conditions apply

www.familiessuffolk.co.uk

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