Families Solent East Issue 39 March/April 2012

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Issue 39 | March/April 2012 www.familiessolenteast.co.uk

Solent East

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PORTSMOUTH FAREHAM GOSPORT WATERLOOVILLE HAVANT CHICHESTER PETERSFIELD ISLE OF WIGHT

The really useful local magazine for families with children 0 - 12 years

PLUS NEW EXHIBITION FOR 2012

Visit Beaulieu this Easter 31st March - 15th April

EASTER EGG-STRAVAGANZA •

Hare-Brained Easter Trail

• • •

Mini Car Circuit Vintage Bus Ride Monorail Rides

Plus . . . .

from 6th - 9th April

enjoy Face Painting, Victorian Games and a sweet treat from the Easter Bunny.

The world’s largest official collection of original James Bond vehicles

Entry includes National Motor Museum, Palace House, Beaulieu Abbey, BOND IN MOTION and World of Top Gear

Beaulieu, New Forest, Hampshire SO42 7ZN Exit 2 M27

www.beaulieu.co.uk

01590 612345

Families Welcome

Welcome Is it summer yet?!

I’m not really winter’s biggest fan I suppose I’m not on my own there!

Still, we’re out the grey and into the green aren’t we, and I’ve made myself feel much better by finding out all the best things to do this Easter Holiday.

Don’t forget you can drop me an email anytime, I’d really like to hear what you’re up to - photos of your family days out, something funny or inspirational your kids have done or said, anything you fancy really!

Here’s hoping for a warm spring and Easter - I’m planning some serious self-restraint with the chocolate this year.

Oooh go on then, just one more bit....

contents

Mandy Earle - Editor

4 Island Daze Take a lazy day out on the Isle of Wight this Easter

6 Local News Southsea Greenhouse - an exciting new local project

8 What about Dad? Local dads talk about how lack of sleep effects them too- even if they don’t think they should say it!

10 Competitions!!

Solent East

Covering: Portsmouth, Southsea, Fareham, Gosport, Portchester, Waterlooville, Havant, Hayling Island, Wickham, Chichester, Petersfield, the Isle of Wight and all the places in between.

On the cover - Sienna

Next issue: May/June 2012 Editorial and booking deadline 1st April 2012

To advertise:

11 Mums Mean Business!

We speak to the two ladies

behind Starz Academy UK

12 Mother’s Day Dads...read this!

Call 02392 362737 or email ads@familiessolenteast.co.uk Editor: Mandy Earle editor@familiessolenteast.co.uk Printed by Holbrooks Printers: Call 023 9266 1485 www.holbrooks.com Copyright: Families Solent East 2012.

Data Protection: If you send us your name and address in order to receive free samples or to enter a competition offering prizes in Families Solent East, 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: Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at the owners’ own risk and, whilst every care is taken, neither Families Solent East nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Families Group: Families Solent East 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.

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Want to see your advert in FSE? Call 02392 362737

15 Cooking with Kids Get your kids in the kitchen

with this recipe from Emsworth Cookery School

16 What’s On Listing all the best events for

you and your family this Easter

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Follow FSE..

Next advertising deadline: 1st April 2012 Tel: 02392 362737 Email: ads@familiessolenteast.co.uk

March/April 2012 Families Solent East 3

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Just a hop, skip and short ferry ride away, the Isle of Wight is loaded with great family days out.

How lucky are we to have a beautiful island right on our doorstep! Not only that, but it boasts a HUGE amount of family attractions, from Zoos to Castles - If you’re on the mainland, there are options for getting there...

You can take four passengers across in the car to Fishbourne from the main terminal in Gunwharf for £37.50 for a return day trip (Wightlink advanced supersaver ticket).

Advance tickets are non-refundable but are amendable at the cost of £5. There are various other ticket and route options go to www.wightlink.co.uk

It’s worth the ferry ride just for the amazing views of the Solent

If you’re going by foot you can hit the Hovercraft straight to Ryde from Clarence Pier in 10 minutes for £32 for a family day return. For a more leisurely crossing (approx. 30 minutes) go as a foot passenger on the Wightlink car ferry (day returns £12.90 per adult/£6.50 per child/0 – 4 free).

Once on the Island, Southern Vectis operates buses from all the Ferry terminals, many of the buses are modern double decker’s, which gives you great scenic view of the island as you travel. You can see a good map of their routes at www.islandbuses.info

If you like to cycle and fancy taking on the Island’s hills (of which there are many!) you can take bikes free of charge with your foot passenger ticket on the Wightlink car ferry from Gunwharf and there’s no need to book. If you’re after a speedier crossing you can also take bikes for free on the Hovercraft, though they only have room for 1 or 2 per craft so you will need to check before you buy your ticket – there is no pre booking with bikes, so get there early as its first come first serve!

Unfortunately we don’t have room to go into detail about all the places you could visit on the Isle of Wight, but here are a selection of our favourites >>>

Free Family Ride Sat 19th May 2012

Cycle Wight have organised a fun, FREE ride across the Isle of Wight. Starting from the event arch on Yarmouth Harbour, the family friendly ride will take you along the pretty causeway cycle path to Freshwater Bay. Grab a coffee or an ice cream, and relax by the beach for a while, then ride back to soak up the finish line atmosphere back at Yarmouth. The ride is just 5km each way, flat and follows a leafy cycle path for most of the route. It’s easy to follow, but they will be signposting the whole thing anyway.

It’s set to be a lovely family event and it’s free to enter!

Red Funnel and Wightlink are supporting this event by offering discount on crossings to the island - you’ll find the discount codes from the Cycle Wight website.

On Sunday 20th on the same weekend is the Wight Riviera Sportif - a 25km ride for adults and older children. It is the first ever closed road cycling event of its kind to be held in the South. For the hardy, there are also 65km, 110,km and 154km route options. See the website for more details and to enter these events www.cyclewight.co.uk

4 Families Solent East March/April 2012

East & West of the Island Brading Roman Villa, Morton Old Way, Brading.

Brading Roman Villa is one of the finest Romano-British archaeological sites in the UK offering a unique insight into Roman life in Britain, from beautifully preserved mosaic floors to an extensive collection of Roman archaeology, including coins, pottery and tools.

Needles Park and Sand Cliffs

South of the Island

Alum and Totland Bay Overlooking the Island’s most famous landmark, The Needles Rocks and Lighthouse.

View the jagged chalk stacks and lighthouse, the unique multi- coloured sand cliffs and enjoy the Park’s facilities, including the spectacular chairlift.

Amazon World

Carisbrook Castle

Watery Lane, Newchurch An all-weather, family attraction home to over 200 different species of birds and animals including Sloth, Anteaters, Armadillos, Crocodiles, Ocelots, Penguins, Toucans. The Islands largest collection of rare animals

Newport, PO30 1XY Discover 800 years of history at this fascinating castle famous for its donkeys and as a royal prison to Charles I. Children will love to climb the towering keep and imagine themselves as medieval soldiers (see image below) as they march the battlements and survey the surrounding lands.

Enjoy hands-on fun trying on armour and handling medieval weaponry - you can even have a go at firing a mini-cannon! Relax in the Edwardianstyle Garden, created by award-winning garden designer Chris Beardshaw; experience the calm of the castle chapel and visit the Carisbrooke Castle Museum with its Charles I memorabilia. The Castle has been home to generations of donkeys since the 16th century, when they were brought in to work the tread wheel in the well-house. Watch daily demonstrations, visit the donkeys in the donkey centre, and find out why each has a name beginning with J’.

Osbourne House

Fort Victoria Westhill Lane , Yarmouth Build on the North shore to protect the Solent, the remains now house a Marine Aquarium, Sea Bed Archaeology Exhibition, a Planetarium and a Model Railway

Combat Island Fort Bouldnor, Main Road Yarmouth Set amongst acres of forested terrain lies the Island's exciting new laser combat adventure.

Osbourne House gardens

East Cowes, PO32 6JX Queen Victoria’s family home on the Island. See the sumptuous state apartments and take an intimate glimpse into the royal family’s private rooms, including the royal nursery and the Queen’s bedroom.

Stroll through extensive grounds and discover the Victorian Walled Garden and Swiss Cottage, a miniature chalet where the prince and princesses learnt home economics and how to grow vegetables – the museum within it contains a fascinating collection of items that the royal children collected over the years! Children will also love taking a horse and carriage ride through the estate and indulging in a traditional afternoon tea in the Terrace Restaurant.

Robin Hill Adventure Park Downend, Newport Some of the Islands biggest rides, with loads of children’s play features and areas of space to run free. New woodland centre and five woodland gardens now open including sculpture trail.

Isle of Wight Steam Railway Havenstreet, Ryde.

Five-mile steam railway using Victorian and Edwardian locomotives and carriages. Other attractions include souvenir shop, refreshments and children's playground, gardens and woodland walk.

North of the Island Isle of Wight Zoo

Yaverland Road, Sandown Specialising in tigers and lemurs, the zoo works to make conservation fun for everyone with talks, small animal handling and children’s activities.

Dinosaur Isle Culver Parade, Sandown A fantastic dinosaur museum housed in a pterosaur shaped building

Blackgang Chine Nr Ventnor, Chale 40 acres of Victorian cliff-top gardens with a range of fantasy activities including cowboy town, nurseryland, dinosaurland, and pirate fort

Owl & Falconry Centre Appuldurcombe Farm, Wroxall , Ventnor Home to some of the world’s most beautiful and elegant birds, from eagles, hawks and falcons, to kestrels and sleepy owls

Godshill Model Village High Street, Godshill The models depict Godshill and Shanklin Old Villages. You can walk amongst the 1/10-scale models and maybe catch a little Islander at work or play.

Want to see your advert in FSE? Call 02392 362737

March/April 2012 Families Solent East 5

Families Local xxxxxxxNews

The Southsea Greenhouse If you recognise this iconic beach side shop then you may already know that the Southsea-based Co-operative deliver fresh, local & organic produce across Portsmouth & Southsea.

What you might not know is they are working with Portsmouth Council to begin a programme of cultivation to establish a Community Garden in Southsea. Their aim is to build a good foundation for a sustainable, locally driven Social Enterprise which will re-invest all profits into the city. Since opening their little beach-shop in August 2011 they have met thousands of local people who share their passion for home-grown produce and Arts & Crafts.

At the moment they are operating from inside the Pyramids every weekend, with loads to do for families, craft workshops as well as fresh produce and flowers.

The Southsea Greenhouse now has 42 members all helping to grow the Co-op in a variety of ways and they are hoping to grow this membership. Members can be as involved as they want and will receive special invitations to events & workshops, and lots of freebies.

How much would you pay to

The Co-op is also really interested in working with other businesses in the city to extend their home delivery service to workplaces and schools - you and your neighbours could also get together to order, keeping food miles low by delivering to one address.

They are also hoping to extend the facilities at the Community garden to Schools and Community groups, so that nursery schools, families with children and older people can experience the delight of growing their own flowers and food, here in the city.

Anyone interested in getting involved, finding out more or simply ordering some local produce, can contact them on 07530 913211 or check the website for latest news:

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On the 30th March Brain Tumour Research will once again be encouraging nurseries, schools, colleges, universities, public sector bodies and office workers to make a donation in order to nominate their ‘head’ to wear a silly hat for the day in aid of the charity’s annual ‘Wear a Hat Day’. The campaign aims to raise awareness regarding the prevalence of brain tumours and the need for vital research.

‘Wear a Hat Day’ is an annual awareness day which encourages people to make donations to wear a hat to school or in the office.

This year Brain Tumour Research is also encouraging students and workers nationwide to raise money by wearing a hat for the day. Sue Farrington-Smith, Director of Brain Tumour Research, comments:

“Brain Tumour Research receives less than 1% of national cancer research spending in the UK yet the deadly disease kills more children and people under the age of 40 than any other cancer.

‘Wear a Hat Day’ is a fun way of increasing awareness and getting people raising money for an often overlooked form of cancer”.

To get involved, request your fundraising packs or for further background into Brain Tumour Research go to:

www.braintumourresearch.org We would love to see your silly pictures of the day! Please send them into us at editor@familiessolenteast.co.uk

6 Families Solent East March/April 2012

IN W CE NST RAGAI A AIN URS BR MO TU HELP US RAISE

£7 MILLION every year to fight brain tumours

GET INVOLVED – CALL: 01296 733011

www.braintumourresearch.org

Families xxxxxxx "...She had to have a cannula in her hand, and a large bandage to keep it in place, as well as a feeding tube in her nose." Paula explained.

"When I first saw her with all the tubes and machines attached, my gut instinct was to pick her up and run away.

My baby was so poorly and there was nothing I could do to fix her."

Paula Smith is the local lady behind Pop 'n' Grow, a not-for-profit organisation based on the Isle of Wight, whose goal is to give every NICU/SCBU a stock of their own unique baby-grows completely free of charge.

Paula gave birth to her daughter Amelia in September 2011. Due to complications, Amelia was moved to NICU and it was during her time there that Paula came up with a new idea to bring comfort to Amelia and other babies going through the same experience.

"It was while I was watching Amelia sleeping that I realised how scary it all looked. The baby grow she had on was only done up to her chest and the arm of the baby-grow was flopped by the side of her, as the sleeves weren't big enough to cover the bandage.’’

Other parents will understand the helplessness that Paula felt, only able to sit by her baby and watch her sleep, when every instinct was to comfort her.

Returning home from the hospital, Paula and friend Alison got together and with a few adjustments and some simple poppers placed along the top of the sleeves, they came up

with the Pop n Grow baby-grow, specifically created for babies in special care units to make life easier, not only for parents, but for nursing staff too. The baby grows are manufactured right here in the UK to their design at the cost of £4.73 per grow. At the beginning of February, the team sent out their first order of 300 grows to 30 hospitals across the UK from the highlands to Cornwall.

Above/right Amelia during her time in the NICU. Below - Paula (right) with cofounder Alison & Amelia today.

If you would like to be involved in helping buy more specially adapted baby grows by either making a donation or fundraising, please contact Paula on 01983 291151, email pop.n.grow@gmail.com or visit the website:

www.popngrow.co.uk

Portsmouth CHAT

Family Information Service Portsmouth CHAT offer a wide range of free information on childcare, activities and services for families and children ages 0-19 years.

If you are looking for childcare, activities for children and young people, want to work in childcare or looking for information on applying for schools, benefit and entitlement advice, parenting classes, family support, health and a wide range of other information Portsmouth, CHAT can help you.

Approved football training for kids from 18 months to 7th birthday.

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Classes in Gosport, Hedge End, Portsmouth, Romsey, Southampton, Whiteley & Winchester.

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Early learning concepts such as colours and numbers are integrated into the activities.

Fun, exciting and healthy for your child.

No parent participation required.

Book your child’s place today, call 01489 871 916

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Family Information Service

All you need to know for your family needs

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orfyoufcanfemailff chat@portsmouthcc.gov.uk www.portsmouth.gov.uk

Want to see your advert in FSE? Call 02392 362737 Approved football training for kids from 18 months to 7th birthday.

March/April 2012 Families Solent East 7

Families Babies

and Childcare

What about Dad?

By Georgie Bateman

We are very aware of the sleep deprivation that new mothers have to cope with, but a subject not so frequently addressed is how fathers struggle in the same way.

Research conducted by Night Nannies has uncovered some interesting facts. Fathers felt they suffered from sleep deprivation just as much as mothers but one response elicited the rueful comment “although she doesn’t think so.” They found having a baby in the room with them was very disturbing, but when the baby was finally moved to its own room, the disruption caused by the mother getting up to do night feeds or settle the baby was actually worse.

Most fathers said they didn’t discuss the issue with anyone – they felt that friends wouldn’t want to hear about it; wives or partners tended to be doing the lion’s share of night care anyway so would not be terribly

sympathetic; and work other rewarding escapist noncolleagues would be indifferent energetic activities (movies, TV, or see it as an excuse for poor videogames, reading). For my performance. In addition, it was wife the sleep itself is the reward unanimously felt that if sleep which made it harder when she deprivation didn’t get much.” ‘‘Most fathers said they impacted on the success didn’t discuss the issue An Army father made the of the team with anyone’’ comment that: their jobs “I thought I was would be in jeopardy. However, used to lack of sleep when out one comment which resonated on exercise, but in the Army among the respondents was: you have an end point so you “It’s a shame, because having know it won’t last forever. With children actually makes you a new-born, this isn’t the case want to strive harder to provide and makes it harder to cope. for them.”

Also you know that the Army won’t make you do anything Like mothers, fathers in the dangerous when you are sleepsurvey said they would only deprived, such as operating discuss the problem with a machinery. However, I know professional if they felt there lots of exhausted fathers who was a chance of resolving it; have to get up and drive to work most felt that the professionals in the morning.” they spoke to weren’t very helpful in this regard. Many Other fathers agreed, making fathers admitted that they the point that a baby’s became short-tempered and, sleep patterns can be totally although a small part of their unpredictable and require brain recognized that they were endless patience. Trying to >> behaving like a brat throwing a temper tantrum, nevertheless they did PORTSDOWN PRIMARY SCHOOL not make the effort to NURSERY control their tempers that they normally would.

A quote which seems to sum up the essential difference between a mother’s attitude to sleep deprivation compared to that of her other half came from a father who said: “The difference between my wife and I is that I would happily do away with sleep (if my body could cope) in order to do

future? care now, or in the education & child Do you need quality year round. s, term time or all 3. aged Competitive rate ren ing available for child Free15 hours fund teachers. , including trained & Highly qualified staff e facilities, provision to view our extensiv ome welc are You meet staff.

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Need childcare?

Then let the Hampshire Childcare and Family Information Team help!

For information about childminders, day nurseries, pre-schools, playgroups, out-of-school clubs, holiday play schemes and free part time early years education in Hampshire, contact the Hampshire Childcare and Family Information Team on

0845 603 5620

Monday - Friday: 8.00am - 8.00pm Saturday: 9.30am - 4.00pm or visit

www.fid.hants.gov.uk

Email: childrens.services@hants.gov.uk

www.hants.gov.uk 8 Families Solent East March/April 2012

Families Babies

and Childcare

console a sobbing baby in the middle of the night so that your wife can get some sleep is a daunting task.

- these guilt trips and mixed emotions play on your anxieties and hinder you from sleep.

Quite often, I have remained awake to try to understand if Some fathers explain how their I could help more. You also wives took the brunt of it. “There feel the mother and new-born seemed little point in having have a stronger bond, so you two exhausted adults in the do whatever it household, takes (even at the ‘‘Trying to console a bickering at expense of sleep) sobbing baby in the each other. to grow the bond I took on middle of the night so that between yourself extra chores, your wife can get some and the new like buying sleep is a daunting task’’ addition.” and cooking dinner for However, fathers us both, hanging out washing drew on experience of previous etc, so she didn’t feel she was babies to say that eventually doing everything, but it was a the sleep deprivation does get mutual decision and I was lucky better and you find that you are that she felt the sleepless nights a stronger couple as a result of were her responsibility. It was your shared suffering. partly to do with her desire to One father summed it up for breastfeed, which I couldn’t help everyone by saying: “I just look with, but I do take my hat off to at our lovely daughter each her – I couldn’t have done it.” morning and all my resentment Another father explained how he and tiredness melt away.” agonized over the changes his Georgie Bateman runs Night new-born had brought. “Whilst Nannies in Hampshire and the mother is fully occupied has extensive experience of caring for the new baby, the helping parents deal with sleep father feels rather spare but deprivation.

To speak to Georgie call doesn’t have time to fret during 01794 301762 or email the day. This happens when you georgie@nightnannies.com put your head on the pillow

Want to see your advert in FSE? Call 02392 362737

Open Doors Event

Tuesday 13 March 9.15 to 11.15 Visit the school from Nursery to Sixth Form on a normal working day. Tours are available. You are welcome to visit the school at any other time by appointment with our Admissions Officer. www.portsmouthhigh.co.uk admissions@por.gdst.net  023 9282 6714 An independent school for girls from Nursery to Sixth Form. Kent Road, Southsea, Hampshire PO5 3EQ. Part of the Girl’s Day School Trust.

March/April 2012 Families Solent East 9

Families Competitions

o t t e k c ti y l re i t m n a e f C a e c n Win e i c HS

INTEC

INTECH Science Centre, near Winchester, is on track to open its new area of hands-on activities about sport on March 22nd.

Before the London Olympics, families can come and have fun learning about the science behind such sports as rowing, sailing, running and even wheelchair basketball.

They will find out about how

muscles work, the winning skill of concentration, how to bend a shot like Beckham and how satellites will beam the images of the Olympics around the world. You don’t have to be a super-athlete to take part. There are lots of different activities to get involved in, with race simulators, an activity wall and spin machine, high speed cameras to time you and predict your track speed, as well as a special

headband to test your powers of concentration.

Test your balance - can you stay on a board balancing on a ball and are you a natural surfer? There will also be a wheelchair challenge - appreciate the amazing design and capabilities of a wheelchair as used in the Paraplegic Games. Start the stop-clock, manoeuvre along a course, shoot the ball into a basketball net, continue along the course back to the start and stop the clock. This permanent learning zone is for everyone, children and adults.

To win one of 2 family tickets to INTECH Science Centre, email competitions@familiessolenteast.co.uk or log onto www.familiessolenteast.co.uk and register your entry.

Closing date is 15th April - Good Luck!

Win a free course at

The Learning Place

The Learning Place is situated in Derby Road, North End, and is a modern, fully equipped centre with full disabled access. Since opening in 2010, they’ve offered approximately 150 different workshops and courses - whether you want to explore your creative talent, develop your Maths or English, learn how to surf the internet, show off your culinary skills or just meet new people, The Learning Place has a course for you. From guitar lessons to print making, cookery to computers, languages to juggling!

Parenting can be stressful at times and if you are having a tough time then they offer courses that help you regain control and develop your parenting skills. If you are keen to ensure that your children are keeping safe when they are on the computer you may like to join in one of their Internet Safety workshops.

Everyday life can wear you down and if you fancy some pampering then they also offer a lovely range of courses from ‘feel good, look good’ to yoga, pamper me perfect to Indian head massage.

All tutors are fully qualified and police checked. For further information please contact them on 02392621860 or go to www.learnportsmouth.ac.uk/learningplace

Win 1 of 2 FREE courses of your choice!!

If you would like to be in with a chance to learn a new skill for free email competitions@familiessolenteast.co.uk with your name, address and telephone number by 15th April. Good Luck!

10 Families Solent East March/April 2012

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Families xxxxxxx

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In this issue I interviewed Lianne Weston-Mommsen and Cheryl Dodd, the co-founders of the local business Starz Academy UK. After having their daughters within a week of one another Lianne, 36, and Cheryl, 32 who live in Stubbington and Gosport respectively, identified a gap in the market when trying to find a ballet class for their young children. They decided to pull forces using Lianne's performing and teaching skills with Cheryl's business experience to create Starz Academy.

FSE: What makes Starz Academy unique?

Cheryl: ‘’Starz offers ballet for babies and toddlers in a fun and friendly environment, also encouraging social interaction between pupils (and parents) with a 30 minute social time scheduled between classes where Starz provides toys and refreshments at no extra cost.’’

FSE: How did you go about creating the business?

Cheryl: ‘‘We professionally designed a class syllabus which offers movement to music and ballet basics under the direction of a qualified dance teacher. Our Ballet Babes syllabus was also reviewed, developed and approved by early years child care professionals at Alverbridge Nursery in Gosport, with our syllabus covering a multitude of EYFS goals.

The business has grown from just one class to forty four Ballet Babes classes per week across twenty three Starz’ Ballet Babes Schools from Portsmouth to Southampton since August 2010.

Lianne: “Cheryl and I can’t quite believe how the ballet babes classes have taken off – we

Ask Sherlock Family Services Directory Ask Sherlock is an online searchable directory for parents, young people, professionals and children and families with disabilities and special educational needs.

It gives you access to free impartial and up to date information so you can make timely and informed choices about lots of different things you can do with children and young people.

The directory hosts information on services, places to go and things to do in the Portsmouth area. From breakfast clubs and baby massage classes to sports venues and special needs support, it has a wealth of information on a range of subjects.

From left: Lianne holding Lydia Moore, baby ballet teacher Nichola Mahoney holding Ruby Wyles and co-founder Cheryl with Lucy Parker. had to find our feet, so to speak, as we didn’t have a ‘The Apprentice’ style business plan to begin with. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities, as in any company large or small. What is driving the expansion is the huge demand from mums and dads.

FSE: How does running a business fit around family life?

Cheryl: ‘’The running of the business fits well with our young families. During class times our children are actively involved as pupils, allowing us to maintain a close working relationship with our teachers and customers in a variety of locations. We are also able to focus on marketing, developing and growing our business while our children are at nursery for a few sessions a week. We do of course also work the odd late night!

FSE: What plans have you got for the future?

Starz Academy UK brand, from hip hop and tap to ‘Zumbatomic’ sessions for families to take part in. We are also busy developing a fun, flexible and affordable Starz Academy UK Franchise Package, and are already in discussion with our first two possible franchisees!

FSE: Did you run into any problems in starting up your own business?

Lianne: ‘‘Not problems as such, but we certainly wasted time in the early days doing many things the long way. We have developed our processes and procedures along the way, which we have quite enjoyed but was not the most efficient plan!’’

FSE: What advice would you give to other Mums thinking about starting their own business?

Cheryl: ‘‘Ensure you have the time to devote to it, plan your time well between work and home to be sure your business is working for you. Spend time business planning in the early days, this will save time and money later!

To find a class near you visit www.starzacademyuk.com or call 075 8325 5934

www.asksherlock.info Lianne: ‘‘We plan to increase our variety of dance classes to appeal to a broader market with funky fun classes designed specifically for pre-school boys and girls, plus a range of classes for school age children to run as after school clubs! A number of other dancestyle classes are in the pipeline under the

www.asksherlock.info

Looking for local information? Just...

www.asksherlock.info

www.asksherlock.info www.asksherlock.info www.asksherlock.info

Want to see your advert in FSE? Call 02392 362737

www.portsmouth.gov.uk

March/April 2012 Families Solent East 11

y a D s r’

e h t o M

Warning:

This is a page for dads only – mums, look elsewhere (or leave the magazine conveniently open on this page where it might be found by your other half…)

Psst, dads – want to know what mum really wants for Mothers’ Day? Here are some ideas to show her how much you care.

ing her inally t a g ts orig mily day was en servan their a f n h A ee . t, w g Su to s ther

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Oh, and Dads! while we have your attention...

We’re looking for a local Dad to be our new regular columnist in Families Solent East magazine. If you, or someone you know, loves to write and has something to say about family life, then please get in contact for a chat.

Email Mandy Earle - editor@familiessolenteast.co.uk or just give me a ring - It’s 02392 362737 12 Families Solent East March/April 2012

Families Mother’s

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e

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Whatever you decide, we hope every mum has a wonderful Mothers’ Day!

CREAM TEAS LIVE MUSIC ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS FREE ADMISSION TO THE MUSEUM Tickets: Adults £19.95 Children under 12 £9.95 Call 023 9281 9385 or visit the Royal Marines Museum reception ...And for just £20, Mum can also enjoy a massage and two relaxing hours in the new Retreat Spa* at the Pyramids Centre!

*Offer valid until 30 April 2012. Terms & Conditions apply. Please call for details.

Registered Charity Nº 1142186

March/April 2012 Families Solent East 13

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14 Families Solent East March/April 2012

Emsworth

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Tel 02392 392 111 New Lane, Havant, Hampshire Open 9am - 4.30pm Mon - Sat

g n i k o Co

with

Kids

This issues’ recipe to try with the kids comes from Barbara Crick, owner of the Emsworth Cookery School on Hollybank Lane.

Barbara’s home based Cookery School is open to all ages, with courses for carers who are weaning children, pre-school & school children, university students & adults. Classes are designed to give confidence in a relaxed environment where you can learn new techniques and recipes – all of which you

Families Food

and family

....Or How to Get a Key Chore Done Whilst Teaching Your Kids a Life Skill!) can recreate at home. Adult classes include Saints & Sinners Cake Baking and Pasta Masterclass. For children there are Mothers’ Day and holiday classes. Parties and girlie gettogethers are also proving popular this spring.

Pick and Mix Rolls makes 16 rolls

What you need.....

• 650g strong white bread flour, plus extra for kneading • 50g wholemeal bread flour (or use an extra 50g of white) • 1 tsp sea salt • 1 x 7g sachet fast-action dried yeast • 450ml lukewarm water Topping • 100g mature cheddar, grated Fillings • your choice - get creative using up bits in the fridge. We used four different fillings feta & mint, olives & sundried tomatoes, marmite & cheddar, coriander and mozzarella.

What to do......

1. Put the flour, salt & yeast in a bowl and mix. Tip in the water and mix using your hands. Once the dough has started to come together, tip onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes. This is a great job to get the kids involved in!

2. When the dough is smooth, tip into a clean, oiled bowl and cover with cling film. Place somewhere warm & leave to rise until approximately doubled in size (this takes about an hour, depending on how warm the room is).

3. Prepare your fillings and divide the dough into four. Then divide each quarter into four again and flatten each of these into a disk shape. Put a little of the filling in the centre of the disk and pinch the bread around the filling to completely seal. Place with the seal downwards on a greased baking sheet. Continue to fill all rolls in this way and place each on the tray about 2cm from the next roll.

Cover loosely with cling film and leave to rise for another 30 minutes.

4. Preheat the over to 190°C/ fan 170°C. Scatter the cheddar over the rolls and cook in the oven for about 25 - 30 minutes.

call Barbara on 01243 371407 or 07733 262126 or visit the website www.emsworthcookeryschool.co.uk

‘Face Britain’

Queen’s Diamond Jubilee

Fac e Br it ept ing ain is por tra its 31 M until arc h 20 12.

acc

Face Britain is a national project created by The Prince’s Foundation for Children & the Arts. All children and young people aged 4-16 are invited to submit a self-portrait. The artworks will become part of a world record attempt and possibly the biggest online gallery of self-portraits in the world.

Following the submissions deadline, there will be a series of events, exhibitions and a Guinness World Records attempt for ‘Most artists working on the same art installation', to celebrate the work of all the contributing artists. If you would like to know more and find out how to enter, go to the website www.facebritain.org.uk you can also view all the portraits already submitted!

Want to see your advert in FSE? Call 02392 362737

March/April 2012 Families Solent East 15

Families What’s

On

What’s On Your guide to the best family events in Hampshire, West Sussex and the Isle of Wight during March & April 2012.

Featured attraction: INTECH Science Centre & Planetarium

Although we aim to be as accurate as possible, the events listed in our What’s On section are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Some events may have a charge, so please contact venues in advance to check full details.

This all-weather family attraction is located near Winchester with close access to M3. 100 hands-on activities – pull, turn, build, move & play.

Parents and grandparents get involved too. The family playing and learning together.

The planetarium is digital so it is like a giant cinema on the wonders of the universe. The screen is vast so there is a sensation of floating through the cosmos.

Facilities include a café, picnic area, shop, full disabled access.

Groups welcome. Popular with Cubs & Brownies, special needs groups, holiday clubs.

Special offer for adult groups.

Great venue for a birthday party.

Did you know?

•

The planetarium is the largest in the UK

•

INTECH is situated in the South Downs National Park

What’s coming up?

Opening on 22 March is the new, permanent activity zone about the science of sport.

How does Beckenham serve a shot past a goalie? Test your concentration by playing Mindball. Your focus and brainwaves competes against an opponent to move a ball into a goal. Be a reporter in a stadium with our Outside Broadcast studio.

Throughout March Lego Mania!

Milestones Living History Museum, Basingstoke

Race on our rowing simulators. Try out wheelchair basketball- it’s timed and it’s difficult. Find out how muscles work. How quick are your reactions?

What do our visitors say?

“I wish I could live here” - 7 year old girl ‘Good value for money’ many parents ‘Nice for them to learn something as well have fun. It’s a worthwhile visit’ - grandmother About the planetarium – ‘Amazing’, ‘Impressive’, ‘Best I have ever seen’

For more information, news and special offers visit www.hampshireattractions.co.uk Become a fan: www.facebook.com/HampshireTopAttractions Follow Us: www.twitter.com/HantsTopDaysOut 16 Families Solent East March/April 2012

All throughout March and up until the15th April, Milestones is going LEGO crazy! This major event will revolve around the building of a model of the Tudor Palace - Basing House is being built out of 150,000 LEGO bricks

by Duncan Titchmarsh, the UK's only certified professional LEGO builder. There will be loads of LEGO related activities also including games, competitions, a brick trail and Minifigure hunt and various workshops.

Customize your own LEGO mini figure! Prices vary between March and April, see website www3.hants.gov.uk/milestones/ lego

3 March Mini Makers – bird crafts Aspex Gallery, Gunwharf Quays. 10:30 – 11:30am.

Mini Makers toddlers to eight year olds are invited to work with their parents in fun artistled sessions, freeing up their creativity and taking inspiration from the gallery's exhibitions.

3 - 4 March Battle Stations!

11am – 1pm & 2pm – 4pm.

Mary Rose Museum, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.

Take part in a Tudor gun drill and fire a replica gun. Activities are suitable for children over 7 years old. FREE with a valid ticket

4 March Bedknobs and Broomsticks Films at the Kings Theatre The Main Auditorium Southsea 2pm

An apprentice witch, 3 kids and a cynical conman search for the missing component to a magic spell useful to the defence of Britain. Watch a classic Disney film in the most impressive of surroundings. Family ticket to all 7 kids films just £42!

5 March Little Limelight Lovers - Science Special Kings Theatre Production 10am – 12pm (For 0-5 years old)

Get the kids on stage for a morning of games, music and dance with a story to finish!

Don’t forget to bring a Packed Lunch! All sessions require an adult to supervise their child/ children throughout the entire session. £2.00 per Child/£1.50 per Adult. Tickets are now only available on the door or through the Box Office: 023 9282 8282

10 March Celebrating Mother’s Day & National Women’s Day 1:30pm – 3:30pm. The Haven Community Centre, Lake Road, Portsmouth.

Treat yourself, or a loved one, for Mother’s Day. This is the perfect opportunity to take time out and acknowledge all you do, or say thank you to a Mum as a special gift. Come along and join us for a Pampering Taster; a Cream Tea to connect with other Mums plus there are limited spaces for children over 8 to enjoy a Craft Session too. For more information see www.mumsthatcare.com or contact Tarryn at info@ mumsthatcare.com

10 March The Owl Who was Afraid of the Dark The Sprng Arts and Heritage Centre, East Street, Havant 11am

Blunderbus Theatre presents this

Families What’s performance based on the classic children’s book by Jill Tomlinson This funny tale includes an irresistible blend of live music, puppetry and storytelling.

Suitable for 3 - 7 years £6.25, £21 family of 4

10 - 11 March Mother’s Day Workshops Chocolate Mother’s Day Cards Le Salon Du Chocolat, Chichester, 01243 775933 www.lesalonduchocolat.co.uk Decorate a milk chocolate ‘card’ using liquid chocolate as paint.

Design your own patterns, write your own message – all in chocolate. Then take home in a lovely box gift wrapped ready to give to your mother on Mother’s Day. 10 am to 11 am Saturday 10th March & 10.30 to 11.30 am Sunday 11th March- £15 per child aged 6 +. Special offer : 4pm to 5 pm Friday 16th March - £10 per child aged 6 years +.

Booking is essential

17 March Baby Animals Story time special 11am – 12 noon.

Gosport Discovery Centre 023 9252 3463 www.hants.gov.uk/gdc

Join us for funny stories of baby animals and then make your very own to take home with you. Suitable for under 10s accompanied by an adult. FREE! No need to book, just come along.

Mini Makers – Mother’s day craft 10:30am – 11:30am, Aspex Gallery, Vulcan Building, Gunwharf Quays.

Mini Makers toddlers to eight year olds are invited to work with their parents in fun artistled sessions, freeing up their creativity and taking inspiration from the gallery's exhibitions

NCT Nearly New Sale 10am - 11.30am. Titchfield Community Centre, Mill Street, Titchfield, PO14 4AB Quality second hand clothes, Toys and equipment for babies and children. Priority Entrance to NCT members on production of valid membership card. Entry £1 per adult (donation). Call 0844 2436130, email FarehamNCT_NNS@yahoo.co.uk

On

18 March Mother’s Day at the Royal Marines Museum 10am – 5pm. Sittings throughout the day.

Eastney Esplanade, Southsea 023 9281 9385

Treat Mum to a day of indulgence at Royal Marines Museum. Enjoy afternoon cream tea with your family while listening to live music in the prestigious Mountbatten Room.

Included in your ticket price is entry to the Museum and children's activities. The Royal Marines Museum has also teamed up with Pyramids Spa to offer an exclusive gift for mums. For £20 you can buy a certificate to allow Mums to have a back, neck and shoulder massage and spend 3 hours in the new Retreat Spa at the Pyramids.

Mother’s Day at the Watercressline, Alresford www.watercressline.co.uk 01962 733810

Nothing says ‘I love you Mum’ more than a hot lunch or cream tea on board a steam trains.

Tickets for these trains must be booked in advance. Our regular steam services will also be running and tickets for these can be purchased on the day from our station Ticket Offices.

For more information, visit www. watercressline.co.uk

Southsea Farmers Market 10am – 2pm, Palmerston Road Precinct hampshirefarmersmarkets.co.uk Market selling a variety of quality local produce - All produce comes from Hampshire or within ten miles of its borders

Model Science and Engineering Fun Day Southsea Canoe Lake 11:00am

Compete on land, sea and air by designing and building your own model vehicles. For more details and to register for an information pack, email: hantsiowscience@gmail.com.

This FREE event is organised by the British Science Association.

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March/April 2012 Families Solent East 17

Families What’s

On

Mania at Milestones Museum 21 February – 15 April

LEGO, the LEGO logo and the Minifigure are trademarks of the LEGO Group. Copyright © 2011 The LEGO Group

Dumbo (U) Films at the Kings Theatre Southsea - 2pm

www.milestones-museum.com/lego

Ridiculed because of his enormous ears, a young circus elephant is assisted by a mouse to achieve his full potential.

Go along and watch a classic Disney film in the most impressive surroundings. Family ticket to all 7 kids films just £42!

Boutique Market Portsmouth Guildhall 11am-3pm, www.southsea.me

Vintage feel indoor market to showcase local sellers

22 March The Secret Garden, The New Theatre Royal, Guildhall Walk, Portsmouth Box Office 023 9264 9000 19:30pm - 21:30pm Angel Exit Theatre presents the Secret Garden, the story of a spoilt orphan named Mary Lennox, plucked from a vibrant India in 1899, and transplanted to a mysterious old house full of secrets, on the grey Yorkshire moors.

23 - 25 March Spring Steam Gala The Watercress Line, Alresford, www.watercressline.co.uk

It’s a steam extravaganza with special guest locomotives from other railways joining an already impressive home fleet.

An intensive service timetable will be in operation, so if you love steam or simply have a passing appreciation of, this is an excellent event for the family to enjoy. For more information go to www.watercressline.co.uk On The Day Unlimited Travel Special Event Fares. Adult £20. Child (2-16 yrs.) £10.

Child under 2 FREE. Family (2 Adult and 2 Children – 1 Child effectively goes free) £50

24 March

*One Child FREE with a full paying adult (up to 2 adults & 2 children per voucher) Children must be accompanied by an adult. Offer ends 31st April 2012

18 Families Solent East March/April 2012

Little Cherub Sales 1.30pm-3.00pm Bridgemary School Wych Lane, Gosport, PO13 0JN Good quality, nearly new baby and children’s sales in local venues across Hampshire. see www.littlecherubsales.co.uk

Mini Makers – Making and Moulding 10:30am – 11:30am Aspex Gallery, Vulcan Building, Gunwharf Quays.

Mini Makers toddlers to eight year olds are invited to work with their parents in fun artistled sessions, freeing up their creativity and taking inspiration from the gallery's exhibitions.

The Chuckle Brothers in "Return of the Pirates of the River Rother 2" 'in Stranger Tights' 2pm, The Kings Theatre, Southsea.

Paul and Barry are visiting a Theme park for the day and decide to brave going on one of the daring Water rides. Once inside, they are leaning on a wall when they accidentally fall through and find themselves magically transported back in time in to a world of Pirates and Sunken Treasures. Don't miss this spectacular pirate adventure!

Magic, mystery and mayhem are guaranteed. £14.50 per person, £54 family

24 - 25 March Spinning a Yarn at the Mary Rose 10am – 4pm, Mary Rose Museum, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard Demonstrations of spinning and weaving by the Portchester Spinners and try your hand at Tudor crafts and make your own cord wheel to take home. FREE with a valid ticket and children must be accompanied by an adult

25 March NCT Nearly New Sale 10.30am - 12.30pm (members entry 10.15am) Thorngate Hall, Gosport Pick up some bargains! Good quality toys, books, nursery equipment, buggies, clothing (0-5s) and maternity, etc. £1 per adult in aid of NCT. To sell or volunteer to help out (& pre-shop) contact 07005 801127.

30 March Wear a Hat Day Join forces at your workplace, school or nursery and help Brain Tumour Research raise money to fight this often overlooked form of cancer (see page 6 for more details)

Little Limelight Lovers - Science Special Kings Theatre Production 10am – 12pm (For 0-5 years old)

Get the kids on stage for a morning of games, music and dance with a story to finish!

Don’t forget to bring a Packed Lunch! All sessions require an adult to supervise their child/ children throughout the entire session. £2.00 per Child/£1.50 per Adult. Tickets are now only available on the door or through the Box Office: 023 9282 8282

31 March Mini Makers – Gardening Art 10:30 – 11:30am Aspex Gallery, Gunwharf Quays. www.aspex.org.uk 023 9277 8080

Mini Makers toddlers to eight year olds are invited to work with their parents in fun artistled sessions, freeing up their creativity and taking inspiration from the gallery's exhibitions.

Booking is essential as places are limited.

Peek a Boo Moves and The Greenhouse Cafe presents 'Family Easter Hunt' 10am-2pm - Hunt Start at The Greenhouse Café, Emsworth Town Centre.

Long and short routes, all pushchair friendly. £3 for family (1 child and 2 adults) plus £1 per additional child (includes egg at end for child)

Easter Holidays daily activites 31 March - 14 April Easter Egg-stravaganza Beaulieu National Moto Museum, Beaulieu www.beaulieu.co.uk 01590 614614

During the Easter holidays younger visitors to Beaulieu can join in a Hare-Brained Easter Trail. Look for the hares, find the answers to the clues and collect a sweet treat at the end of the trail. Easter Activities are included in your general admission tickets to Beaulieu, which also includes BOND IN MOTION, World of Top Gear, Palace House and Beaulieu Abbey.

Chocolate at the Tower 10.00am to 6.00pm daily, Spinnakar Tower, Gunwharf Quays 023 9285 7520 A series of themed activities for chocolate lovers of all ages to celebrate the Easter period.

On View Deck one, visitors are invited to complete a chocolate decoration activity before discovering the secrets behind Portsmouth’s famous trading history, and learning about the manufacturing process of chocolate, from its beginnings as a humble cocoa bean to the treat the population all know and love today. Adults £8.00, Children £6.30 and Concessions

The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre | 56 East Street, Havant PO9 1BS Box Office 02392 472700 | www.thespring.co.uk

£8.50, £7 conc., £28 family of 4

literature writer Michael Bond.

Adapted from the stories of children’s

Sat 10 March, 11am Blunderbus Theatre present

The Owl Who was Afraid of the Dark Based on the classic children’s book by Jill Tomlinson. This funny tale includes an irresistible blend of live music, puppetry and storytelling. Suitable for 3 - 7 years, £6.25, £21 family of 4

Sat 14 April, 11am Garlic Theatre present

The Magnificent Flying Machine Follow the wacky adventures of Prof.

Bix Horn as he flies by the seat of his pants! With beautifully crafted puppets, a bowler hat and a trumpet.

Running Time 45 minutes / Suitable for 4+, £6.25, £21 family of 4

Want to see your advert in FSE? Call 02392 362737

What was he thinking with that hair do?

£7.15. (Discounts are available for local residents.) You can book online at www.spinnakertower.co.uk

Marwell Wildlife Park www.marwell.org.uk 01962 777407

young “sailors” for R&R. FREE with a valid ticket

Throughout the Easter Holidays, enjoy an interactive talk with Marwell’s herd of giraffe. Win a daily chance for you and your family to meet and feed the giraffes (max 6 people) Plus fun hands-on craft activities.

Family Activity Area on board HMS Warrior 1860 Portsmouth Historic Dockyard www.historicdockyard.co.uk 023 9272 8060 10 – 4:30pm daily Enjoy pirate art and craft, costumed role play as sailors swabbing the decks and colouring and quiz sheets.

Once the lower deck mess and schoolroom for young officers, Warrior’s Gun Room is now somewhere you can bring your

How To Look Good Tudor Style at the Mary Rose Museum 11am – 1pm & 2pm – 4pm daily, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.

Try on one of our costumes and step back in time. Bring your camera to capture the moment.

FREE with a valid ticket

Easter Gift Fair & Easter Farm Gunwharf Quays 11.00am - 4.00pm daily Looking for something different this Easter? Try the Gunwharf Quays Easter Gift Fair! Gifts for Easter and special occasions.

Come and see the animals, and learn about the story of the egg from incubation through to chicks and hens. FREE

Easter Holiday Workshops: Cartoon City 10am – 3pm/£14.50 per day/Packed lunch available on request

2 April Disney Story Create a mask & a story of your favourite Disney character. Age 5 - 7 Ceramic Creatures Make your own cartoon creations & paint your own ceramic characters & get them fired. Age 8 - 12

3 April

4 April

Movie - Dance Hip hop & street dance inspired by Disney movies.

Age 5 - 7 Toon Town - Drama Explore life in a cartoon world.

Are you real or an animation?

Age 8 - 12

Sing It Play It - Music Your chance to sing loud & play music. Learn to pitch your voice, play cool rhythms & catch the beat.

Cartoon - Movie Make your own plasticine character & film your own movie.

Age 5 - 7

March/April 2012 Families Solent East 19

Families What’s

On

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20 Families Solent East March/April 2012

TGA.7150.020212

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Osborne House, East Cowes, Isle of Wight PO32 6JX www.english-heritage.org.uk/osborne

Families What’s 1 April Fully Loaded Sunday 10 am – 4pm , The Royal Marines Museum, Eastney Parade, Southsea.

An explosive day for all the family. A hands-on day where you can make a big bang by making rockets, firing a trebuchet or doing the field gun run.

Bigger bangs will come from demonstrations of firearms old and new as well as a cannon.

NCT Easter Egg Hunt 2pm - 4pm Nicholson Gardens, Carlton Road, Gosport. 02392 523894.

Egg hunt, Easter craft, singing and games all for £2 per child (in advance) or £2.50 per child on gate. Price includes chocolate egg, children's snack & craft, singing & games. For more info www.nct.org.uk/gosport

Sword in the Stone(U) Films at the Kings Theatre Southsea, 2pm

Merlin the Magician teaches a young boy who is destined to be King Arthur. Watch a classic Disney film in the most impressive of surroundings.

2 April Chicks on sticks story time 11am – 11:45am, Gosport Discovery Centre

Easter fun with stories and crafts…and chicks. Suitable for under 10s accompanied by an adult. FREE! No need to book, just come along.

4 April Wonderful Easter Wednesdays Weald and Downland Museum, Singleton, Chichester, PO18 0EU www.wealddown.co.uk 01243 811348

Children can enjoy traditional Easter activities, arts, crafts and games from 11am - 4pm, under cover if wet. The museum is open throughout the holidays as usual from 10:30am - 6pm

4 April Easter Egg Hunt from 11.30am to 3.00pm at West Walk, Hundred Acres Road, Newtown, near Wickham This year this popular event promises to be bigger and better with lots of fun and games for all ages. Held by Earlybirds Pre– School and FONS (Friends of Newtown Soberton Infant School) Costing just £2.50 per child, participants have to find 10 coloured eggs around a circular walk and hand them in to receive their chocolate prize. There will also be refreshments on sale and a number of stalls including lucky dip, face painting and a toy sale. For further information please call Jo Gamblin on 01329 833017

5 April Easter Bunny Workshop Le Salon Du Chocolat, Chichester, 01243 775933 www.lesalonduchocolat.co.uk 12.15 – 1.15pm.

Eggsellent!

Keep the children occupied this Easter with our 4 &&11 Wonderful Easter Wednesdays on 13 20 April. Accompanied children can enjoy traditional Easter activities, arts, crafts and games from 11am-4pm, under cover if wet.

Decorate your chocolate mould then fill with liquid Belgian chocolate, and leave to set. Take your lovely

The Museum is open throughout the school holidays 10.30am-6pm, with more special Easter Activities on Sunday 24 8 & Monday 9 April. and Monday 25 April.

WEALD & DOWNLAND OPEN AIR MUSEUM Singleton, Chichester, W. Sussex PO18 0EU 01243 811348

chocolate Easter Bunny home in its mould so that you can re-use to make another one! £12 per child aged 4 + . Booking is essential

5 - 7 April Easter Egg Workshops Le Salon Du Chocolat, Chichester, 01243 775933 www.lesalonduchocolat.co.uk Mould and design your very own egg by hand using real Belgian chocolate. Hand paint, turn and wrap your milk, white or dark chocolate egg and then take home in a beautiful box – nowhere will you be able to buy one so special! Contact for times and prices - Booking is essential

6 April Falconry INTECH Science Centre and Planetarium, Winchester. www.intech-uk.com 01962 863791

Birds on show all day, Flying demonstrations at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.

Treasure Hunt Old Portsmouth 2:30pm The Square Tower, Broad Street A FREE treasure hunt in Old Portsmouth led by Portsmouth Guiding Service. Come and test your local history knowledge and have some fun - meet the guide at The Square Tower to collect your clues! Suitable for all the family.

6 - 9 April Wild Egg Hunt Marwell Wildlife Park www.marwell.org.uk 01962 777407 Follow the Wild Egg Hunt and receive a chocolate egg from the Easter Bunny.

On

6 - 15 April Day Out With Thomas The Watercressline, Alresford www.watercressline.co.uk 01962 733810 Thomas & Friends return to the Watercress Line for more family fun! See Toad, Diesel, Bulgy, George and of course Thomas the Tank Engine.

Unlimited travel on the day of your visit, giving great value for money. FREE car parking at Ropley station (SO24 0BL) and FREE children’s entertainment!

FREE activity sheets, stickers, Engineers certificate, and Mega Blok’s giveaway packs! Bouncy castle slide and FREE rides with Thomas, Diesel and Toad at Ropley station. Join the big trains and travel the full length of the line as much as you like!

Adult £16, Child (aged 2-16 yrs.) £10, Family (2 Adults and 2 Children – 1 Child effectively free) £48

7 April Easter Story time special 11am – 12 noon.

Gosport Discovery Centre, 023 9252 3463 www.hants.gov.uk/gdc Egg-citing Easter card making and stories. Suitable for under 10s accompanied by an adult.

FREE! No need to book.

Boutique Market little Johnny Russell’s, Albert rd, Southsea 12pm-4.30pm, www.southsea.me

A vintage feel indoor market to showcase local sellers. vintage only day

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bsales.co.u

littlecheru

www.wealddown.co.uk

Want to see your advert in FSE? Call 02392 362737

March/April 2012 Families Solent East 21

Families What’s

On

7 April

11 April

Easter Egg Trail From 10am Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Wonderful Easter Wednesdays Weald and Downland Museum, Singleton, Chichester, PO18 0EU www.wealddown.co.uk 01243 811348

Self-guided Easter Trail – the Easter Bunny has hopped all over Portsmouth Historic Dockyard leaving a trail of Eastery mischief behind him. Help solve the nautical themed Easter clues to find the hidden Easter Bunny illustration and receive a small prize for your Easter Egg FREE with a valid ticket (Children must be accompanied by an adult)

8 - 9 April Easter Activities Weald and Downland Museum, Singleton, Chichester, PO18 0EU www.wealddown.co.uk 01243 811348

Various Easter activities such as egg painting and rolling, Easter bonnet making competition and grand parade. They will also be demonstrating traditional Easter food being made in their working Tudor kitchen.

10 April Little Limelight Lovers - Science Special Kings Theatre Production 10am – 12pm (For 0-5 years old) Get the kids on stage for a morning of games, music and dance with a story to finish! Don’t forget to bring a Packed Lunch!

All sessions require an adult to supervise their child/children throughout the entire session.

Children can enjoy traditional Easter activities, arts, crafts and games from 11am - 4pm, under cover if wet. The museum is open throughout the holidays as usual from 10:30am - 6pm

12 April Fireman Sam Pontypandy Rocks 1pm start, The Kings Theatre, Southsea.

The Hero next door is back due to popular demand with his live stage show Pontypandy Rocks!

Join Fireman Sam, and all his friends, as Pontypandy hosts its first ever music festival! Child £11, Adult £13, Family £44.

13 April Falconry INTECH Science Centre & Planetarium, Winchester.

Birds on show all day, Flying demonstrations at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.

The Storyteller – Easter eggs and April Fools 1pm - 2pm. Gosport Discovery Centre, 023 9252 3463 www.hants.gov.uk/gdc

Friday the 13th may be unlucky for some, but come along and be lucky with Mike O’Leary the South’s storyteller. FREE! No need to book, just come along.

Chicks on Sticks Story Time 11am – 11:45am Gosport Discovery Centre 023 9252 3463 Easter fun with stories and

crafts…… and chicks. Suitable for under 10s accompanied by an adult. FREE! No need to book, just come along.

14 April The Planet Show 12:30pm & 2:30pm INTECH Science Centre and Planetarium, near Winchester.

Join our presenter to spot some stars before flying to see all the planets of our solar system. Best for ages 8+. Usual admission price +£2.20

Little Cherub Sales St. Swithun’s Church Hall Waverley Road, Southsea, PO5 2PL 1.30pm-3.00pm

Good quality, nearly new baby and children’s sales in local venues across Hampshire. see www.littlecherubsales.co.uk

The Magnificent Flying Machine The Spring Arts & Heritage Centre, Havant.

11am Follow the wacky adventures of Prof. Bix Horn as he flies by the seat of his pants..With beautifully crafted puppets, a bowler hat and a trumpet. Running Time 45 minutes/Suitable for 4+. £6.25, £21 family of 4

15 April Southsea Farmers Market 10am – 2pm, Palmerston Road Precinct

Market selling a variety of quality local produce - All produce comes from Hampshire or within ten miles of its borders

The Lion King (U) Films at the Kings Theatre Southsea, 2pm

Tricked into thinking he killed his father, a guilt ridden lion cub flees into exile and abandons his identity as the future King.

‘Bustival’ - Vintage Vehicle Cavalcade 2012 IW Steam Railway, Havenstreet, Isle of Wight,PO33 4DS

A festival of buses old and new.

Marvel at over 35 vintage buses of all shapes and sizes, and browse the stalls and attractions.

Full service of steam trains and a real ale bar!

22 Families Solent East March/April 2012

22 April Boutique Market Portsmouth Guildhall 11am-3pm, www.southsea.me

A vintage feel indoor market to showcase local sellers. Like a glamorous car boot, but without the early morning start and awful weather…

28 April Little Cherub Sales In ‘The Out House’ Titchfield Community Centre Mill Street, Titchfield, Fareham, PO14 4AB 10.30am-12.00pm Good quality, nearly new baby and children’s sales in local venues across Hampshire. see www.littlecherubsales.co.uk

28 - 29 April Isle of Wight Spring Garden Show 2012 Robin Hill Adventure Park and Gardens 10am to 5pm.

Downend, Nr Arreton, Newport Isle of Wight.

PO30 2NU The county’s biggest gardening event of the year is back for its sixth year. With up to 20 RHS medal-winning mainland plant nurseries that you would normally see at show’s like Chelsea. all the best of local & regional food in the Finest Flavours Food & Wine Pavilion, with a full theatre kitchen and a live programme of demos featuring top Island chefs. Art &craft marquees, a mini farm with baby animals and lots of great arena events to watch including falconry and dog agility. A high-light is the IOW chainsaw carve off, showcasing skills of the UK’s best chainsaw sculpture artists, with all the pieces being auctioned for the IW Hospice.

30 April Treasure Hunt In Old Portsmouth 2:30pm start at The Square Tower, Broad Street

A FREE treasure hunt in Old Portsmouth led by Portsmouth Guiding Service. Come and test your local history knowledge and have some fun - meet the guide at The Square Tower to collect your clues! Suitable for all the family

31 March to 15 April

Discover the delicious history of chocolate from our vantage point high above Portsmouth Harbour –once home to a thriving spice trade.

PLUS children can create their own tasty treat Book tickets online today and save 15%

chocolate heaven

Chocolate at the Tower

YUMMY!

www.spinnakertower.co.uk 02392 857520 Find us on @spinnakertower

Have you ever wanted to run your own business?

…but always been a bit unsure how to get stared?

Why not come along to one of the MAD Academy Open days and we’ll show you how.

MAD Academy has been providing music and dance classes for pre-school children since 2004. However, there are some key locations where children do not currently have the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of our high energy, yet educational classes.

Consequently, we are looking for enthusiastic business minded people to join our team of franchisees to help us close the gaps. Experience with children and a love of music and dance would be an advantage but a desire to build a flexible business based on term time working, is more important.

If you’d like to find out more, join us at one of our Open Days for a no obligation chat and a presentation of what’s involved.

April 1st – Southampton April 29th – Bristol May 13th – West London

All attendees will receive a

£500

discount voucher PLUS free gift!

For details email franchise@madacademy.com or call us on 0118 926 1384

Want to see your advert in FSE? Call 02392 362737

March/April 2012 Families Solent East 23