Families Suffolk May - June 2017 Issue 35

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

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SUFFOLK

The Long Shop Museum New Bear Barn launches at Glass & Craft Family Travel ISSUE 35 • May / June 2017

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Welcome

A note from the Editor

A warm welcome to our May / June issue Welcome to our first summer edition of the year - and what a packed issue it is! We have a great ‘Clubs and Classes’ feature in this issue which highlights just three of the fantastic clubs and classes available throughout the County. We hear from Gymnastics in Ipswich, an absolutely inspiring club going from strength to strength. We also have some great advice from Little Kickers on helping to get toddlers to concentrate, and finally an overview of the classes available from Little Signers, Baby Signing Club in Suffolk.

In this issue...

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We are very pleased to celebrate the recent success of the Long Shop Museum, who feature in this issue’s ‘Our Community’ page. Having recently won the first Family-Friendly Museum award at the Suffolk Museum of the Year Awards. Read more on p4.

We have the last of our Suffolk Fab40 Adventures - celebrating all the summer season has to offer. Check out their ‘10 Summer Activities’ on p10. Plus more information on this years Walking Festival on p9.

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We also share some exciting news from our friends at Glass and Craft, and the launch of their new Bear Barn. Well worth a visit to Kersey Mill if you are planning days out for the family over the next few weeks.

We hope you enjoy. Best wishes

Stacey Phillips Next issue: July / August 2017

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Circulation: 17,000 copies of Families Suffolk are available through nurseries, schools,

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libraries, selected retail outlets and various other distribution points throughout Suffolk.

If you would like copies for your organisation please get in touch.

Contact us Editorial content: Stacey@familiessuffolk.co.uk 07951 946736 Sales and Marketing: Lisa@familiessuffolk.co.uk 01473 788546 Events and What’s On: editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk Design & Editing: Designed In house Cover image: Supplied by The Long Shop Museum

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Families Suffolk is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care preparing the magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers, the accuracy of the contents nor for any correspondences.

Contents 4 Our Community 5 - 7 Clubs & Classes 8

Public Health

9

The Suffolk Walking Festival

10

Family Finance

11

Suffolk Fab40 Adventures

12 - 13 Baby & Toddler 14 - 15 Visit Kersey Mill 16 - 17 Education Feature 18

Suffolk Fire & Rescue

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Family Travel

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LocalCommunity Our News

Family-friendly award success for The Long Shop Museum!

After a jam-packed summer of family-friendly activities, the hard work of staff and volunteers paid off when Leiston’s Long Shop Museum won the first Family-Friendly Museum award at the Suffolk Museum of the Year Awards.

Prize winners

Summer activities

The museum, home to an original Victorian factory, is one of Suffolk’s lesser known historical gems and offers a full-day out for families, including special events, engaging collections and fun and games for everyone to enjoy.

Throughout 2016, the museum provided a full programme of family activities which helped them scope the award, and this is something the team are keen to continue this year.

Tabitha told us, “We have regular, familyfriendly activities such as museum trails, engineer explorer bags and crafts which are available every day. But the special events are really fun and we have developed them with families very much in mind”.

Learning and Outreach coordinator, Tabitha Runacres told us, “We were ecstatic to have been awarded the Family-Friendly award from the Association for Suffolk Museums! We want to welcome more families and provide a fun and interesting experience for everyone”.

To help spread the word about the activities on offer, the museum took part in “Summer in Suffolk Museums” an exciting line-up of low-cost events for families at museums throughout the summer holidays. Tabitha continued, “Taking part in Summer in Suffolk Museums really helped us spread the word about the wonderful family-friendly facilities at the museum. It was a great way of letting people know that a fun day out is what we are all about”.

Summer in Suffolk Museums will run again this year from the 21st July to 1st September.

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This year, the popular “Workshop Wednesdays” continue with even more hands-on experiments and science themed activities.

“Science Saturdays” also make a comeback with a Freaky Forensics themed evening where families can explore the museum after dark and have a go at solving murder most foul in a Victorian crime-scene.

Summer in Suffolk Museums Summer in Suffolk returns this year, with another jam-packed line-up of family-friendly events and activities.

Throughout the school summer holidays, museums across the county will offer entertaining days-out, workshops and trails for the whole family to enjoy together. From arts and crafts to archeological digs, science workshops to giant craft fairs, amazing collections, and discovery trails galore there’s something for everyone to enjoy in museums this summer.

A full timetable of events can be downloaded at www.suffolkmuseums.org from the 20th June. In the meantime, you can keep up to date, by following Summer in Suffolk Museums on Facebook at suffolkmuseums/facebook.com.

Dates for your diary Saturday May 13th – “Science Saturday” Freaky Forensics The museum will also host a new Summer Discovery Club for children aged 7-12 which will include steam engine rides, games, trails and animation creation. “Works at Wartime”, a living history and vintage fair will give visitors a taste of what life was like in the 1940’s and the “Steampunk Spectacular” will see the return of the ever popular tea-duelling! The museums wonderful engines will of course be on hand at the larger events for all budding steam enthusiasts. The museum offers discounted prices for family visitors, including the Leiston Family Pass which gives free admission to the museum for a year.

Saturday 27th May - “Works in Wartime” Living History and Vintage Fair 22nd/23rd July – “Steampunk Spectacular” 27th/28th July – Summer Discovery Club 3rd/4th August – Summer Discovery Club 16th August – “Workshop Wednesday” Marvellous Medicine To find about more about the museum visit www.longshopmuseum.co.uk/ or like them on Facebook at facebook.com/Longshopmuseum/

Clubs & Classes

Local News Clubs & Classes

In this issue, we have spoken to three very different local clubs - Gymnastics in Ipswich, Little Kickers and Little Signers Club to provide our readers with a bit more information about what they offer

Gymnastics in Ipswich: International Success Gymnastics in Ipswich, home of Pipers Vale Gymnastics Club, offers gymnastics classes and sessions to children of all ages, from toddlers to International gymnasts.

Pipers Vale currently has 2 International senior male gymnasts, Adam Steele (19) and Cameron Lister (16). Due to their family roots, they were able to apply for Irish and Scottish status respectively and have represented these Nations on a number of occasions over the last two years.

Both gymnasts are highly committed to the sport, training around 24 hours per week whilst still in full time education.

Adam moved to Pipers Vale from another club when he was 10 years old, and has been a dedicated and hardworking gymnast throughout this time. He loves the sport, in fact so much so that he has also started coaching at the club. Throughout his years at Pipers Vale, Adam has won numerous British medals at the top level competitions.

His greatest achievement to date came in 2016, where he represented Team Ireland at the 2016 European Championships in Switzerland. Adam’s goal is to go to the Olympics in Tokyo 2020, and he is dedicated to fulfilling this dream.

Cameron has been a member of the club since he was 2 years old, and took part in our Teddybear and Recreational classes before being spotted as having the potential to go

further in the sport. He moved in to an elite development group and has progressed through the system, competing in a variety of County, Regional and National competitions. Cameron currently holds the title of two times Scottish Champion - first in 2015, then again in 2017. He is a proud member of the Scottish Senior National Squad, and although he will be too young to compete at the Commonwealth Games in 2018 he has his sights firmly set on 2022.

Both gymnasts are coached by Men’s Head Coach Will Banthorpe who comments: ‘Cam and Adam are two of the most committed and dedicated athletes I’ve had the privilege of working with.

They inspire me as a coach as much as I inspire them, and I have no doubt they will continue to achieve more great things’ Pipers Vale values its gymnasts, whatever their ability level. The beginners of today may not all be the gymnastics superstars of the future, but with our friendly club environment we nurture our young gymnasts and develop skills and attributes that they will carry with them for life. By fueling their passion for gymnastics, we aim to allow everyone to realise their potential - be it as a performer or as one of our next young coaches.

Details of their beginners classes, fun sessions and more can be found on the website www.gymnasticsinipswich.co.uk

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Local News Clubs & Classes

Why it can be difficult for toddlers to concentrate.

Little Kickers coach Chris West passes on thoughts and observations as to why it can be difficult for toddlers to concentrate.

In the course of our work at Little Kickers, we frequently come across parents who are concerned about their child’s ability to concentrate (or lack of!). Many parents tell us that prior to starting Little Kickers classes they are concerned that their toddler is “not ready” because they will not listen to instructions and will “do their own thing” and disrupt the class. These concerns are completely normal - toddlers’ brains work in a different way to those of fully grown adults – a fact which is sometimes hard for parents to grasp.

The fact is that most preschoolers are so interested in their surroundings and exploring the world around them, that sitting in one place for an extended period just doesn’t interest them. They are notoriously self-directed, and as a result they may choose to sit still for a long time if they are totally engaged in something that really interests them. However, at the age of 2 – 3, they haven’t developed the physical ability or a strong enough emotional urge to please others to keep them involved once their interest flags, which is something we find refreshing! The key to getting and retaining their attention is to make whatever activity they are doing fun for them, and to ensure it remains entertaining.

In our experience, it is normal for a toddler to be able to follow basic instructions and communicate their feelings, but it is not normal for every toddler to be able to sit still for extended periods of time or follow specific instructions to complete set tasks. Your toddler will be required to sit still for a large part of their life and at this early stage they are meant to be active, so this should be encouraged.

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So how do toddlers typically develop the ability to concentrate?

A typical toddler is constantly on the go, rarely focusing on the same activity for more than a few minutes. With limited concentration they are happiest when moving quickly from one toy or game to the next. And with so much energy, they can only focus for a limited time before they are hit by an overwhelming urge to play with something else. This is completely normal – concentration takes time to develop.

A child’s attention span improves significantly in three distinct ways as he / she matures: • Passive to active – as a baby your child only looked at objects when they came into his / her line of sight. As a toddler, concentration is more active and controlled. Now, they start to look around and choose what to look at more closely, rather than just randomly viewing objects directly in front of them.

• Unsystematic to systematic searching – unlike a baby, who looks at a toy in a haphazard way – perhaps gazing at one end, then chewing the opposite end, your toddler uses concentration to investigate the object systematically and methodically.

It’s sometimes surprising to parents to see the intensity with which they can study every day household items such as keys or a mobile phone.

• Broad to selective – a baby has difficulty filtering out other sources of information. Your toddler, however, concentrates more selectively – for instance he continues to watch his favourite

show on television even though you keep asking him to tidy his toys away!

• Encourage listening. Read a book to your toddler then ask them questions about the storyline.

Are there games / techniques which can be employed to encourage and to develop concentration skills?

• Create a quiet area. Put a child-sized table and chair for your toddler to sit at when they want to play in peace

All pre-schoolers are incredibly responsive to fun, so the key to any game you use to promote the development of concentration is that you make it entertaining, and that they enjoy it. There are a few ways in which you can create an environment that is more conducive to your child developing concentration skills: • Minimize distractions. One of the most common causes of short attention spans in toddlers is the amount of distractions they encounter, so it stands to reason that if you minimize the amount of external distractions they have to contend with when they are trying to concentrate, their attention will be held for longer, so when you do reading or creative play activities with them, try to ensure you do so away from the phone or television.

• Turn the ringer off on your phone while you and your child enjoy an activity, this way both of you can avoid being distracted and spend quality time enjoying an activity together.

• Avoid games and television shows that foster short attention spans such as those with lots of flickering lights or fast moving images.

• Let him / her practice looking for items. When shopping ask your toddler to find a nearby item.

• Stay on top of mess. Their concentration will benefit from having an organized, uncluttered environment.

• Respond to his progress.

Begin with short activities and, as their concentration improves, gradually make tasks longer • Encourage your child to look at you when you talk to them.

Eye contact reduces distractions, focuses his attention and leads to better understanding Toddlers are not, in general, good at concentrating. No child is born with powerful concentration skills, and every child’s ability to concentrate will develop at his / her own pace. The world is a new and exciting place for your child, and there’s so much they want to see and experience. The activities and ideas above may help your child improve their concentration skills, but it’s important to remember that the key to active, enthusiastic participation for any pre-schooler is making an activity fun.

New Classes

Little Kickers are now launcing Mega Kickers (For 5-7 year olds) and Little Kicks (For 18 months to 2 years olds) .

To Find out more...

Contact Chris on 01394 200327. Or email: cwest@littlekickers.co.uk www.littlekickers.co.uk

News ClubsLocal & Classes

Little Signers Club – Baby Signing in Suffolk

SPECIAL OFFER

By Little Signers Club

What is Baby Signing?

Using gestures to enhance communication, for all ages and abilities, is part and parcel of everyday life. It is thought that up to 80% of communication is non-verbal – made through gesture, body language and intonation.

Introduce a friend to our parent and toddler play sessions and get your session for FREE. Check website for times and full offer T&C’s 01473 433676 • admin@pipersvale.co.uk • www.gymnasticsinipswich.co.uk

Gesture communication – or signing – with small children is naturally intuitive; we wave ‘bye bye’, encourage clapping and point to draw attention to things that are of interest.

By harnessing this natural inclination for gesturing, we can give children an indispensable tool to communicate with – and by so doing, a voice much sooner than waiting for them to be able to speak.

How does Baby Signing and Maslow’s theory work together?

Little Signers Club classes are uniquely centred around the principles of Abraham Maslows ‘Hierarchy of Needs’. Created in 1943, the Hierarchy of Needs was based on Maslow’s theory that Man’s “most basic level of needs must be met before the individual will strongly desire or focus motivation upon higher level needs.”

HORSE RIDING FOR ALL AGES AND ABILITIES Friendly family run yard offering equestrian learning and fun for all.

Our team of qualified BHS Staff offer a range of classes, EMAIL: HILLFARMEC@HOTMAIL.CO.UK

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Basic needs are literally the requirements for human survival; food, drink, sleep, excretion. Without these needs being met, quite simply the body cannot continue to function. If a child is unable to communicate these needs and be understood, they are unable to progress upon higher level needs, impacting on interests and learning – always concentrating on the unmet need, feeling “anxious and tense”.

By introducing simple first signs such as those for Eat, Drink, Cuddle, Bed, Help and Nappy Change, children can be more confident of having their needs met even if they do not know how to ask verbally.

A more confident child is a much happier child and consequently less frustrated and able to engage in learning.

A child who is confident of having his or her needs met can indeed focus their motivation on higher level needs and interests - climbing, gazing at butterflies, contemplating ants and eating daisies…..

Signing also allows a child to be able to clearly express anything that is on their mind and enables parents to make the appropriate response without delay. Signing means that they have the right tools to tell you what the matter is and this means that the guesswork of understanding why your child may be crying simply disappears.

Our Classes Relaxed, informal and heaps of fun, our classes are the perfect way for small people and their grown ups to socialise. Connect with new friends and share the wonder – and worry – of your parenting journey.

A happy, comfy, cosy, nurturing space awaits you – where you and little ones will feel supported. Our classes are taught by experts and delivered with love.

Find out more at www.littlesignersclub.co.uk or check out our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Little-Signers-Club-Suffolk @familiessuffolk

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Public Health

Enjoy a fitter summer as a family with OneLife Suffolk

When it comes to feeling healthier, many of us need an occasional boost. With the warmer summer months approaching, OneLife Suffolk is providing interactive Healthy Lifestyle Clubs supporting young people and families who struggle with their weight and want to be healthier.

Free 10 week programme The FREE 10 week programmes are available for children (aged 4 - 11) and teens (aged 12-16) who want to achieve a healthy weight. OneLife Suffolk’s experts have designed the clubs to give parents support and advice on healthy living, whilst the children get a fun, free physical activity session. Children also receive a free water bottle and goodie bag.

OneLife Suffolk is the healthy lifestyle provider for the county, delivering a range of services from help to quit smoking to getting active. Their weight management team delivers programmes for families alongside their children and teens, designed to help them make better food choices, become more active and feel healthier.

Session topics Include the following: • Achieving a healthy, balanced diet • Monitoring portion sizes • Enjoying healthy snacks • Understanding food labels • Increasing physical activity

Each session lasts one hour, with parents/caregivers receiving a lifestyle session covering a range of topics and parenting advice whilst the children enjoy a fun, interactive physical activity session.

At the end of each session, the OneLife Suffolk team will help participants set realistic health goals.

In the first year, 83% of the children and young people completing the 10 week programme have shown a reduction in their BMI.

Matt’s story Matt and his Mum got in touch with OneLife Suffolk after seeing his diabetic nurse who suggested it could help support them.

Matt wanted to lose weight to get his diabetes under control and improve his overall health. He was very motivated and eager to get started and had been seeing our child weight management practitioner, Helen, for his appointments.

FREE Holiday Clubs MAY HALF TERM DATES AVAILABLE TO BOOK NOW!

A fun packed healthy living programme running in Ipswich, Lowestoft, Sudbury & Bury St Edmunds for kids who want to get fit!*

He has now completed the weekly sessions and has seen some big results, as well as losing 4kg. He has been walking one mile every day to school and can feel his fitness improving as well as noticing his clothes feel looser. It hasn’t been a straight forward journey but Matt feels happier in himself and is proud of his achievements.

“I can now walk to school in 15 minutes! Before it used to take me 25 minutes." Matt, 15 “You wouldn’t believe the difference. He stood up in a whole school assembly with children and parents and read out a poem. I was so proud I cried.” Mum, Susan

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Book your place today!

Or visit www.onelifesuffolk.co.uk *Please note - eligibility criteria applies

Suffolk Walking Festival

The Suffolk Walking Festival 2017 You are invited to a party!!!!

2017 marks The Suffolk Walking Festivals 10th Birthday and we would love it if you brought your family along to help us celebrate this wonderful event.

We all know how great we feel when we have been outside, strolling through the countryside or ambling along the coast which is exactly what the festival is all about. Did you know that research shows that children who do not engage with the natural environment are less likely to do so in their adult life? We want to ensure that future generations enjoy the countryside and by making it fun we hope that the festival can play a part in this.

The Festival runs from the 13th May – 4th June with a variety of walks aimed at families scattered throughout the programme, especially during the half term week.

Family Friendly Walks Celebrations kick off at the iconic Sutton Hoo where family friendly walks will take place, walk your family back in time around the burial mounds on the new interactive trail (The Time Travellers Guide to Sutton Hoo, Saturday 13th May at 12:30pm Adult £6, Children £3) or listen to stories of grave robbers and the discovery of buried treasure as you amble around the ancient burial mounds (Gruesome Graves Family Tour, Saturday 13th May at 2:30pm Adult £6, Children £3). Both walks include admission to all the exhibits at Sutton Hoo, creating a great day out for all the family. Don’t forget to enjoy a nice slice of cake or ice cream in the café!

Perhaps history isn’t what interests your family but animals are? Find yourself behind the scenes at Jimmy’s Farm, meet the animals and discover more about how this working farm operates (Behind the Scenes at Jimmy’s Farm Sunday 14th May at 10:30am Adult £9, Children £7).

Ticket price includes admission to the Farm Park, so why not discover the Butterfly House or let the children enjoy the bouncy animals in the Play Area.

Free Walking Events During the half term week, we have a variety of free walking events taking place throughout the county, with a chance to win a prize or two!

Join Lowestoft Rising for a ‘Walk in the Park’ at Nicholas Everitt Park on Tuesday 30th May, Carlton Marshes on the 31st May and Sparrows Nest Park on Thursday 1st June from 10:00am. Children will have the opportunity to take part in a ‘Golden Mile Walk’, explore local museums, and learn about local wildlife. There will also be exciting activities for the whole family to join in with.

One Life Suffolk are holding two family walks this year, at Whitton Primary School (Ipswich) and Bell Vue Park (Sudbury) both on Saturday 3rd June between 10 am – 12pm. Enjoy a mile long walk as you take in a variety of stands and activities for the whole family to be involved with to encourage you be active and healthy. Complete all the activities to be in with a chance to win a prize or two!

Get Involved For more information and to book tickets please visit: www.suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk

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Festivals Feature Family Finance

Mortgages and zero hour contracts: What are the options?

By David Shelton, Senior Underwriter, Ipswich Building Society

Zero hours contracts have seen a massive 460% increase over 10 years.

The ONS Labour Force Survey reports 0.5% of people (147,000) in employment in October to December 2006 were on a zero hours contract, compared to 2.8% of people (905,000) in the same period of 2016. Of these, 22% are in the accommodation and food sector and 20% are employed in health and social work.

Interestingly, 46% of people on zero hour contracts (412,000) have been with their employer for 2 years and over, compared to 38% (309,000) at the same period in the previous year – and of people in employment on a zero hours contract, 34% (308,000) are on a full time basis.

Although these people may consider themselves able to fulfil a financial commitment such as a mortgage, and be able to prove a regular income, not all mortgage lenders will take this into account.

multiple sources of income, older borrowers and those who are self employed or on zero hours contracts. The mortgage industry is increasingly using the term ‘misfit’ to refer to these people who may find themselves locked out of the mortgage market.

With this in mind it can feel that some organisations do not want to help - but there are providers out there who take a very different approach and will work with you to understand your personal circumstances. Organisations such as this will use trained underwriters to make individual lending decisions.

When applying for a mortgage you should be prepared to provide information such as: a) Evidence of your employment history. Most lenders will want to see proof of employment over a period of at least 18 months.

What can I do to get a mortgage whilst on a zero hours contract?

b) A P60 (End of Year Certificate), issued to taxpayers at the end of a tax year (5 April). This shows how much you have earned during the tax year.

Some mortgage providers use a computer based scoring system to assess mortgage applicants and affordability. Automated processes are not always able to take into account circumstances such as

c) Payslips, bank statements, levels of expenditure and balances of other outstanding loans and credit cards.

Find out more about the full range of products and services available at Ipswich Building Society by visiting www.ibs.co.uk.

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Suffolk Fab 40

The school year is nearly over and our little dears will soon need entertaining over the summer before we can deliver them back at school again in September and breathe a sigh of relief!

Suffolk’s Fab 40 Adventures has provided us with inspiration over the year and the final season, summer, certainly doesn’t fail in delivering some great activities that are free and easy to do.

The 10 seasonal activities are all tried, tested or suggested by over 400 helpful children, mums, dads, grannies and grandads – so we are confident you will enjoy them.

This season’s activities include things to do as family as well as the odd activity to do alone – we all need some quiet time, whatever our age! You can hide up a tree and spy on the world; see a meteor shower; spot the blue of a kingfisher from a riverside path; find your perfect picnic spot; go fishing for crabs; put a toe in the water down at the stream; take a swim in the sea; simply lay back, look and listen; watch dragonflies hunting over water and discover the beauty of butterflies on a meadowland stroll.

10 Summer Activities You’ll find everything you need to know to complete the 10 Summer Adventures from star gazing instructions to butterfly spotting sheets and maps to give you ideas of where to go and how to get the most from your visit at www.fab40suffolk.co.uk Getting children outdoors is fantastic for their health, wellbeing and learning and can set them on a pathway to happy, healthy and environmentally sustainable lifestyles. And this is what Suffolk’s Fab 40 Adventures is all about. It’s about encouraging children, with their carers, parents or grandparents to get outdoors and activate and to truly experience what Suffolk has to offer.

For more Information Find out more about Suffolk’s Fab 40 Adventures visit: www.fab40suffolk.co.uk

@suffolkfab40

#40adventures

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Contact us!

Email: somer@yogabugs.com Tel: 0845 863 0693

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Birch Farm Nursery Established 1991 – 2016

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 Full Day Care Nursery & Holiday Club  Varied Sessions from 3hrs to Full day 7:30am - 6:30 pm  Shift patterns may be accommodated (subject to staff ratios & notice of pattern)  Impressive indoor and outdoor facilities  15 hours a week FREE care for 2,3 and 4 yrs (Subject to status)  Extra curricula activities from Jo Jingles/Swimming/Ballet  Ofsted Rated Good For more information contact Mini  01473 652249  birchfarm@uk2.net  www.birchfarm.co.uk Birch Farm Silver Hill Hintlesham Ipswich Suffolk IP8 3NJ

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May - June 2017

The importan in Early Years

By Bows and Arrows Group

Picking a high quality early years childcare provide most parents. Evidence shows that the type of pro development and even future life chances, so it is Quality in Early Years education and childcare can often be seen through: • A passionate staff team, which are motivated and encouraged to stretch themselves further through training courses to gain an understanding of children’s needs • Providers working closely with parents – good relationships with parents are key. Children’s learning can be planned more effectively if staff are aware of interests, likes and dislikes at home • Quality play and learning environments and activities – these should be regularly rotated and updated according to children’s needs and interests • Using recognised standards/tools to measure against – these help easily identify developmental and learning areas for your child.

Ask your childcare provider to show you what they have in place to monitor your child and the setting.

Ensuring Quality has become so key to Nursery Group Bows and Arrows that they have recently recruited a Quality Improvement Manager to its team. The group which has 5 children’s nurseries across Ipswich (3 of which are rated OUTSTANDING in all areas by Ofsted) has always strived to offer the very best in childcare and learning environments and the addition of the Quality Improvement Manager further strengthens this position.

Bows and Arrows Nursery Group offers high quality care for 0 – 5 y Buttons and Bows, WigWams, Little Learne To find out more visit: bow

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Quality Improvement Manager Stephanie Moss comments:

“

My role is about bringing a fresh pair of eyes to each Nursery to check the quality is at the outstanding level we would expect. I spend time in each Nursery observing staff practice and monitoring learning environments as well as checking procedures and policies are adhered to. Using my knowledge and experience, I then put forward improvement recommendations to the Nursery Managers and staff and help implement any changes or new ideas. Having previously worked as a Nursery Manager for the Group, I know the many demands which are on the managers and so I am able to remove myself from the day to day running of a business and really focus on maintaining quality. Our staff have been very receptive to suggestions I have implemented, ultimately we are lucky within the Group that all staff work towards the same goal: giving all our children the very best start in life. My aim for the role is to to ensure all our Nurseries receive an outstanding rating from Ofsted at their next inspection

year olds, 8am – 6pm all year round. Its Ipswich Nurseries include: ers. Wellington and The Children’s Triangle. wsandarrowsgroup.co.uk

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Believers in Outdoor Learning and Play

SPECIALISTS IN IPSWICH CHILDCARE FOR 0—5 YEAR OLDS 3 settings rated OUTSTANDING in all areas

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www.bowsandarrowsgroup.co.uk Call 01473 240304 E: info@bowsandarrowsgroup.co.uk @familiessuffolk

/FamiliesSuffolk

www.familiesonline.co.uk

01473 788546

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Kersey Mill

Visit: Kersey Mill At Kersey Mill you will find a number of local business and services available where you can shop, relax and be entertained in a glorious Suffolk setting.

About Kersey Mill Life | Land | Business

We offer you a range of family law services We all need help from time to time. Our friendly and approachable solicitors are on hand to advise you on a host of family law matters. · Family breakdown - helping to achieve financial security for you

Kersey Mill is complimented with a host of diverse local businesses, which are independently owned. These range from a gym, pilates room, art studio with crafts, florist, beauty salon, boutique, baby photographer and wedding dress retailer. In addition there are services providing holistic and wellbeing therapies, counselling, creative photography and graphic design and promotion.

You will also find a unique wedding and corporate meeting venue nestled in the grounds. While you are visiting us, why not take the opportunity to relax and unwind in the coffee shop

· Mediation - discussing the issues that matter to you

As part of the Kersey Mill experience they also offer a wide range of events and activities throughout the year from open days to workshops and so much more. To find out more visit: www.kerseymill.net/forthcoming-events

Free initial consultation | Fixed fees available

Plan your visit

41 Barrack Sq, Martlesham, Ipswich IP5 3RF Free parking

To help plan your visit to Kersey Mill and see the range of businesses there visit: www.kerseymill.net

· Children - support and expert advice on arrangements for children

Visit barkergotelee.co.uk or call 01473 611211

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Kersey Mill set in 18 acres of beautiful grounds. Set in an area of outstanding beautiful Suffolk countryside, Kersey Mill is only 1.5 miles from the historic town of Hadleigh. The Mill building, Maltings and elegant Georgian fronted Mill House are surrounded by 18 acres of meadows, beautiful established water gardens and sunken Mediterranean garden, with brooks and streams that flow to the River Brett.

May - June 2017

Kersey Mill

The Bear Barn Workshop is now open at Glass & Craft Glass & Craft have been based at Kersey Mill for almost 3 years, and are now bigger and better than ever, with a growing range of craft activities for the whole family

New Bear Building Workshop

So much to do...

The brand new Bear Barn launched at Glass & Craft offers a huge range of bears to build. Unlike conventional bear building workshops the Bear Barn prefers a more personal approach without the use of an electronic stuffing machine. Instead you will stuff your chosen bear by hand to a feel that is hug perfect using specialised bear fibre stuffing.

Can can choose from:

Once your bear is cuddly and soft, you can make a wish and add a special heart. Then finish off the experience by filling in your very own bear birth certificate.

Book a Party

A wide range of clothing & accessories are also available, including T shirts shoes and even sunglasses.

You can either stuff your bear in the dedicated bear workshop or buy a takeaway kit and stuff your bear at home.

Glass & Craft still offer a fantastic range of craft activities for the whole family to enjoy.

• Glass painting • Ceramic painting • Decopatch • Wood painting • Mosaics • Sand art • Fabric colouring

Glass & Craft can also offer a wide range of party options, in both their craft studios and now the Bear Barn. Their children’s parties are great fun for all ages and always include at least 2 crafts.

For more information To find out more visit: www.glassandcraft.co.uk www.bearbarnsuffolk.co.uk

@familiessuffolk

/FamiliesSuffolk

www.familiesonline.co.uk

01473 788546

15

Education Feature Advertorial

How to help your child transfer to secondary school

By Liat Hughes Joshi

Children’s services for schools and families

During the months before your little one makes the big move to secondary school, it’s recommended that you begin the following…

Ramp up responsibilities Senior school children have to be considerably more responsible for their own belongings and themselves. Whereas primary school teachers send letters to parents, at ‘big’ school, communication on day-to-day issues might well be to your child only.

Begin building independence out and about Most secondary school pupils travel to school minus mum and dad, so get yours used to being out without you. It’ll be less daunting for them if this starts on the journey to primary school, rather than being thrown into travelling alone on a lesser-known route.

Listen out for concerns

Speech and Language Therapy Promoting an inclusive approach for children and young people with speech, language, and communication needs.

We are running Summer Holiday courses, including: • Parent/carer Workshops on Autistic Spectrum Disorders • Parent/carer Workshops on Stammering • Intensive Stammering Therapy (Pre-school and 13 - 16 years) • Transition to Secondary School (Year 6 students moving into Year 7) • Early Years Signing Workshops for parents/ carers and their children • Intensive Language Therapy (Reception/Year 1).

We also accept parent/carer referrals for assessment and therapy.

To find out more

Please do contact us for more information and prices:

Tel: 01473 260781 | Email: psychologyandtherapy services@schoolschoice.org Website: www.schoolschoice.org//Children’sServices/Psychology-and-Therapy-Services/ Speech-and-Language-Therapy-Services

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May - June 2017

Some children take this huge change in their stride and are ready to move on, while others will feel anxious. Common concerns include getting lost around a much larger school, dealing with the journey, making new friends and managing the homework load.

Attend settling-in days Most secondaries hold a session for new joiners, usually during the summer term of year six. This is an important opportunity to get to know the buildings, potential classmates and teachers and it should make the first day less intimidating.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind once your child has started secondary school…

Expect them to be tired and emotional…

Many year sevens get very tired thanks to the ‘newness’, on top of a longer day and a more complicated journey. Stick to early nights and restful weekends to fend off exhaustion – and the moodiness that goes with this.

Get super-organised with homework At primary, pupils might only have had a small amount of homework; expect the game to be raised now. Not only will there be more but keeping on top of when it all needs handing in can be complicated.

Get used to knowing much less about what goes on In primary, you might well have been at the school gates most days and familiar with your child’s friends, parents and teachers. This will change: with independent travel comes a more hands-off approach.

Be there for them It’s tempting to think this independence means you’re being made redundant come September but they’ll still need you - albeit in different ways. Be there as a sounding board - someone to listen and advise.

Education Feature

How to teach your kids their times tables…easily Hands up who got their iPhone out the last time they had to add anything up? You’re not the only one. Relying on a calculator is easy and convenient but getting to grips with maths and, in particular, times tables, is vital for children if they are to succeed at school.

Helping your little ones at home and doing some extra work to ensure they feel confident in their learning can almost be as important as what they do in the classroom. It can, however, be tricky to navigate the teaching journey when you’re not actually a teacher.

The thing that can really turn children off learning their times tables is the practise it will take. Mixing up the way they spend their time practising is important for sparking their interest and holding their attention. Here are some top tips to help you.

What should they know?

How and what children learn in primary school sets them up for success in secondary school. If the foundations are in place for them to be able to work out an equation like 3x6=18 without using a calculator, then they will find it easier when it comes to tackling harder arithmetic. The education curriculum changes, but at the moment, children are required to know 12x12 by the age of nine.

How can you help them know it?

Buy posters of times tables or make your own; you can then stick them up throughout the house. On the wall opposite the loo, or under a magnet on the fridge, so that they are taking it in without even realising it. You can even tape it to the ceiling above their bed so that they have something to talk about with you when you’re snuggling down, instead of a bed-time story.

Start with the twos

Adding two to a previous number is something most children will find achievable in primary school and this sets up a pattern for learning about the other times tables. The 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 pattern has an easy rhythm to help children remember it.

Apply it to real life

If times tables is something your children can apply to daily life, they will show much more of an interest. Instead of testing what they know, be playful about it when you’re at the supermarket and they’re helping you with the shopping (it can happen sometimes!). If you’re

buying loose fruit and veg, ask them if they know what the price would be if you bought three instead of two.

patterns to remember because, whilst the tens go up each time, the other number just goes down; 9, 18, 27, 36, 45, 54, 63, 72, 81 and 90.

Find out what works Don’t bring your own best for your child feelings into it Like anything with children, once you discover what works best for them – stick to it. If your child learns best using visual aids then go down that route.

If, on the other hand, listening and chanting helps them learn, then explore the different types of apps available on the iPad or computer and try downloading some of them. It may be a good idea to keep these activities supervised so that if your child does make a mistake and comes up with a wrong answer, you are on hand to explain where they may have gone wrong and encourage them to try again.

Pick out the patterns Come on, admit it; everyone has a favourite times table. It’s probably your favourite because you find it the easiest to remember or you like the pattern. Picking up on things like this will make it easier for your little ones to learn. The 9 times table has one of the easiest

@familiessuffolk

/FamiliesSuffolk

Teaching methods have changed a lot since us parents were learning our times tables. Your children are probably learning in a completely different way now so chances are that you may have to brush up on your arithmetic too. Ordering yourself something like Maths for Mums and Dads could help if you are feeling outside of our comfort zone when you’re topping up the teaching at home.

Build their confidence There is more to maths than arithmetic and it’s important that your little ones don’t lose interest in maths as a subject because it feels too difficult or seems too time consuming. Break down learning into bite-size chunks and make it as playful as possible. Encourage your children and praise them for trying when they do. Show them how far they have come since last week or last month and this should spur them on to keep improving. www.familiesonline.co.uk

01473 788546

17

Suffolk Fire & Rescue

Becky, 24

Quantity Surveyor & On-call Firefighter Could you get to your local fire station in 5 minutes?

#SwiftToServe

We are looking for new recruits to become on-call firefighters ■ ■ ■

■

■ ■

Are you 18 or older?

Do you have a reasonable level of personal fitness?

Do you live or work within five to ten minutes of a fire station in Suffolk?

Can you be released from your main employment to attend emergency incidents?

Can you operate at heights and in confined spaces?

Are you calm under pressure?

If you answer yes to these questions it could be you we are looking for.

Become a Suffolk on-call firefighter, visit: www.suffolk.gov.uk/oncall Becky is a Quantity Surveyor in Long Melford and provides on-call support for the town’s fire station.

18

May - June 2017

Famiily TRavel

Popular Family Holiday Destinations

The holiday season is almost upon, but during such turbulent times, and with rising concerns about travelling we spoke to local travel consultant Maria Moslin-Thomas to get some advice for families looking to take a summer break this year.

I am finding the first question from my clients is: “where is safe to travel”? With this is mind I thought it would be really beneficial to share with you some of the top selling holiday destinations for families. So whatever your budget or preferred board option, be it All Inclusive, Self-Catering or B & B all of these destinations have something to offer...

Spain Spain is always going to be a very popular destination with its sandy beaches and warm temperatures. It offers fun activities and waterparks as well as a range of alternatives such as self-guided hiking and cycling holidays for those seeking a little more adventure!

Greece All of the beautiful islands and mainland each offer something

different. Greece has some of the most beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters and centuries of history. Crete is the biggest island and boasts miles and miles of coastline. Corfu is known as the Emerald Isle due to its lush greenery.

Zante is famous for the Loggerhead Turtles and a visit to the Laganas beach is a must to be in with the best chance of spotting them! As well as the famous Ship wreck Cove that we see in so many photos and is probably the most famous beach in Greece.

Bulgaria A very up and coming summer destination with more and more visitor’s year on year with the temperature rising into the 30’s in July and August. It is very cost effective to eat out and explore Bulgaria. You can enjoy the Black Sea coastline where you will find

can visit the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, which offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city. Or get some retail therapy at the world’s largest shopping mall, The Dubai Mall where you are spoilt for choice with shops and eateries. You can even dine in the evening watching the beautiful water fountains dance to music or take a trip on a tradition Dhow boat.

blue flag beaches.

Sunny Beach is a purpose built resort offering all sorts of entertainment, nightlife and fairgrounds for the children.

Golden Sands offers luxury hotels and even a monastery carved into the cliffs. If you are looking for somewhere a little quieter you could try Obzor which is a small seaside town with its laid back restaurants and bars. If you visit Nessebar, you will find the UNESCO-protected old town.

Dubai Home to the famous Atlantis Hotel on the Palm. The hotels are amazing with so many options to choose from and its pristine beaches and clear waters makes it one of the top holiday destinations. The children will have a great time visiting waterparks Dubai TOtheOUR WORLD... has on offer. Whilst there, you

WELCOME

If you would like more information on any of the destinations mentioned or alternatives, Maria can offer professional advice.

For more information visit: www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/ maria.moslin-thomas

WELCOME

TO OUR WORLD...

Nice to meet you!

Hi, my name is Maria . I look forward to discussing your travel plans with you.

Being a Travel Counsellor allows me the flexibility to serve clients nationwide. So wherever you are based I can accommodate your needs. I am available anytime of the day and weekends not just 9-5 Mon-Fri. Travel is my passion and has been since my very first trip to Halkidiki, Greece many years ago. I combine my passion and love of travel along with over twenty years of customer service experience to provide each and every client the personal, friendly and professional service they deserve. I can find that exceptional destination for a wedding or anniversary, a family holiday, a precious alone time break, Kenyan Safari or a special tailor-made adventure. I can even arrange your business travel.

Who are we?

We’re a global network of friendly and professional travel gurus with one simple purpose: To make a positive difference to people’s lives.

Your Travel Counsellor will really get to know you. Your individual needs, wants and desires. Your aspirations and dreams and even your bucket list. In time, they will become a trusted friend, always there for you - every footstep, float or flight of your travels. We’ll be there in an emergency or even when you just need advice or reassurance that the holiday is just right for you. And we’re not only about holidays, maybe you need a flight to that very important business meeting to clinch the deal. We’ve got your back.

Your personal Niceown to meet you! travel guru Remember how easy it used to be to book a holiday? When someone else took care of everything? When they knew you well enough to get it just right? At Travel Counsellors we believe that this is the Travel is my passion and has been since my very first trip to Halkidiki, Greece many years ago. I combine my passion and love of travel along with over twenty dreams; years of customer service experience to provide each and everyTravel client the personal, friendly and professional service they deserve. I can Fulfilling creating memories.

We’re Counsellors only way to recommend travel. find that exceptional destination for a wedding or anniversary, a family holiday, a precious alone time break, Kenyan Safari or a special tailor-made

Hi, my name is Maria . I look forward to discussing your travel plans with you.

Our thousands of customers absolutely love this approach because our 1300 Travel Counsellors around the world really do care. What matters to you, matters to us. We believe in treating you the way we would expect to be treated. That makes us more than a little different from the Being a Travel Counsellor allows me the flexibility to serve clients nationwide. So wherever you are based I can accommodate your needs. I am rest.available And that’s whatofkeeps our customers year after year, again and again (and again). anytime the day and weekendscoming not just back 9-5 Mon-Fri.

Serina Peartree | Tel: 07921169520 Email: Foreverspaloe@gmail.com www.spaloe.myforever.biz

adventure. I can even arrange your business travel.

Maria Who Moslin-Thomas are we?

TRAVEL COUNSELLOR We’re a global network of friendly and professional travel gurus with one simple purpose: To make a positive difference to people’s lives.

Your Travel 852110 Counsellor will really to know you.427 Your individual 01473 M.get07920 107needs, wants and desires. Your aspirations and dreams and even your bucket list. In time, they will become a trusted friend, always there for you - every footstep, float or flight of your travels. We’ll be there in an emergency or even when you just need advice or reassurance that the holiday is just right for you. And we’re not only about holidays, maybe you need a flight to that very important business meeting to clinch the deal. We’ve got your back.

maria.moslin-thomas@travelcounsellors.com

Our thousands of customers absolutely love this approach because our 1300 Travel Counsellors around the world really do care. What matters

to you, matters to us. We believe in treating you the way we would expect to be treated. That makes us more than a little different from the www.travelcounsellors.com/maria.moslin-thomas rest. And that’s what keeps our customers coming back year after year, again and again (and again).

Fulfilling dreams; creating memories. We’re Travel Counsellors

@familiessuffolkMaria Moslin-Thomas /FamiliesSuffolk

www.familiesonline.co.uk

TRAVEL COUNSELLOR

01473 852110 M. 07920 427 107

01473 788546

19

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