Families Sussex Coast - May/June 2017

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Issue 53 | May/June 2017 www.familiesonline.co.uk

What Dads really want for Father's Day

Competitions!

WIN family festival tickets

Moving In! How to blend two homes

www.familiesonline.co.uk | 1 The essential local magazine for parents and carers

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www.familiesonline.co.uk Managing Editor Mandy Earle editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Contributors Sarah Macnaught Dan Flanagan Zoe Holland Next issue July/August 2017 Booking deadline 12th June 2017 Artwork deadline 14th June 2017

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News and views What Dads really want for Father’s Day The Dadifesto Family friendly festivals guide What’s on guide to family events

How to successfully blend two family homes

Editor’s Note With Father’s Day in mind (18th June) this issue we are focusing some attention on the often lesser acknowledged parent, with help from the witty Dan Flanagan (AKA ‘Nathaniel’s Dad’) who has gathered up some fellow ‘writer-dads’ to give the low-down on what they really want (Head’s up, it’s not Homer Simpson socks...).

This issue also brings our Family Festivals feature on pages 8 and 9, with our top picks of favourite local festi-events over the summer and three competitions for family tickets.

We love hearing from our readers, so get in touch if you have something to share - a parenting tip, a funny story, photo, or a recipe - whatever it is, send it over to hello@familiessussexcoast.co.uk and you may well be published in the next issue.

Best wishes,

Mandy Earle | Editor

fscmagazine

@FamiliesSussexC www.familiesonline.co.uk | 3

If you have a local news item you would like to share, please email hello@ familiessussexcoast.co.uk

Childline launches new app to offer counselling for kids The NSPCC’s Childline service has just launched a new iPhone app to provide counselling for kids directly through their mobile phones.

The ‘For Me’ app allows kids to access Childline’s online services, including 1-2-1 live chats with a counsellor, the ‘Ask Sam’ problem pages and entrance to their private ‘lockers’ – areas where they can write down their own personal thoughts and track their moods.

It was invented by four teenagers who wanted to use technology to address the urgent need for support among young people. Childline founder Esther Rantzen said: “We know hundreds of thousands of young people use our website for help and support, with more than half those visits coming via mobile devices. Now young people can get immediate access to our counsellors through this brilliant, innovative app.”

The App is free to download via iTunes and is designed for discreet usage. Read more at www.childline.org.uk

First Words from Lonely Planet

Say “bonjour”, “hola” and “hello” to First Words, the latest series of books from Lonely Planet Kids.

Simple, striking and beautifully illustrated, these three new books - First Words: English, First Words: French and First Words: Spanish - are the perfect introduction to new languages for the whole family.

Each First Words book contains 100 travelrelevant words with a simple pronunciation guide accompanying a bold, colourful illustration to give the word context – and to help make remembering the new vocabulary easy and fun.

You also get access to a free audio pronunciation guide by either scanning the QR code stickered on the book’s back cover or visiting www. lonelyplanet.com/kids/first-words

4 | Tel: 02393 117 561 | editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

Get OnBoard and learn new life skills Are you looking for an activity for your children where they can learn new skills, make friends and have fun in the fresh air?

This summer, get your youngsters active by introducing them to sailing and windsurfing through RYA OnBoard.

They’ll learn an exciting new sport in a safe environment, get out on the water and gain valuable life skills from problem solving to taking responsibility. Once they get started in sailing the opportunities are endless.

Everything you need is provided by the instructor. It’s affordable, fun and you don’t need to have any experience.

Anyone aged 8-18 can take part in OnBoard sessions and with over 245 RYA approved venues across the country there’s bound to be one near you. You might even find you want to join in too! To find your nearest OnBoard activity visit rya.org.uk/ onboard. #GetOnBoard

Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes Perform is a unique children’s drama school that has a special emphasis on child development, using a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s full potential.

no-obligation FREE sessions for newcomers!

Run by highly experienced actor-teachers, in small groups, Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination, and Concentration.

The perform curriculum ensures plenty of fun, using a mix of energetic games, catchy songs and funky dances. All class materials are written by Perform, with apps, CDs and videos that the children can play at home to keep the magic alive.

Each term sees a brand new theme to keep imaginations buzzing. This Summer Perform’s 4-7s group will be saddling up and going on a Wild West adventure to find the Horse with the Golden Mane.

The 7-12s will be zooming off on a fun-filled outer space adventure with Robinson Crusoe in a space-age version of the castaway survival classic.

Summer term runs until 21st July and starts up again 2nd September 2017 with venues in Hove, Rottingdean, Horsham and Haywards Heath.

Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class today. Tel: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk

Families Needed! Scientists and pollinators want your help…

Imagine living in a desert with barely any food, hardly any water or any place to shelter. Unfortunately, this is exactly what it is like for the pollinating insects currently living in Britain.

Loss of habitat, pesticides, and farming practices have left these insects hungry and homeless, suffering from a lack of feeding, nesting and shelter habitat. Which is why the Polli:Nation project needs your help.

Now in its second year, the Polli:Nation survey is looking for families across the UK to take part in aiding research on the health and status of pollinating insects across the UK.

Business Mums (and Dads!) Wanted!

Successful business woman is seeking 5 working partners to work part time from home without compromising current working or family commitments If you have Supervisory. Managerial, Sales, Marketing, Recruiting or a Self-Employed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle, call to find out more

Katie Bridge 07909 681884 | 01273 656067

The survey can be completed in under an hour in outdoor spaces such as gardens, school grounds, or local parks, and uploading your findings will contribute to important scientific research.

The survey will also help you to consider whether your area is a good environment for bees and other pollinators. It offers guidance on how you can create simple feeding and nesting habitats such as a pot of wildflowers, or nesting and shelter habitats like a bee hotel, as well as other cheap and easy ways you can improve your outdoor space for pollinators.

Our nursery is part of Springfield School and is for children aged 3 and 4 years old.

Breakfast Club

Free survey resources can be downloaded at www. opalexplorenature.org/polli-nation and results can be submitted either online or by post.

Family

Matters with Zoe Holland

At last Summer is well and truly on its way! I love this time of year....with the anticipation and high hopes of the adventures and travel plans that lie ahead. There may still be a slight chill in the air but the days are longer, the children can play out after school (which means they sleep better!) and there is so much going on every weekend!

Every May we make a real effort to visit our local woods and take some photos of the children playing amongst the bluebells. This has become something of a tradition in recent years and now we have a small collection of images showing the children, each year a little taller, in the most beautiful settings. We're so lucky to be spoiled for choice in Sussex for places to visit the bluebells, but I can recommend Heaven Farm in Danehill as a particularly

Open during school hours

Highly Qualified Staff

magical place to see them.

The May half term break is fast approaching too! My husband and I try to ensure that we line up a bit of holiday childcare over this week as it usually covers our wedding anniversary. The problem with having 4 children is that no single set of Grandparents can cope with them all at once! Any 'us' time involves weeks (if not months) of careful planning, lining up the Granny's, Nana's and Grandpa's to make sure they avoid booking their next cruise/walking tour/safari in the short window when the children are off school.

When the careful planning works...everyone's a winner.

The children LOVE visiting their Grandparents and it goes without saying that the Grandparents cherish their time with the children.... and we get 24 hours to be alone as grown-ups. Yes, the groundwork is well worth it!

The nursery is situated within the school building and is part of the everyday life at the school. We have highly qualified practitioners with years of experience in Early Years that work closely with the Reception staff team to ensure there is a quality approach to early learning and care, in a bright and stimulating environment with quality resources.

If you are interested please call into or phone the school office to book an appointment to see us and to request an information pack.

Springfield Infant School Sackville Road, Worthing BN14 8BQ Tel Number: 01903 219243 office@springfield.w-sussex.sch.uk

We are highly committed to giving your child the best start to life.

“Space to grow and wings to fly”

Zoe is a Mum, Step-Mum, Teacher and local explorer from East Sussex.

She writes Jugglingonrollerskates. com, a family focused blog featuring events, places to eat, days out and short breaks.

www.familiesonline.co.uk | 5

'Dad La Soul' Father's Day

What Dads really want

this Father’s Day With shops cramped to the rafters with novelty socks, mugs, memorabilia and other assorted ‘dad’ tatt you could be forgiven for thinking that is exactly what dads actually want for Father’s day. But you know what you couldn’t be ‘father’ from the truth. Here five of the writers for the superb dads website, ‘Don’t Believe The Hype’ break down the facts on what dads really, really, really want.

The gift of love

Learning to love your child’s bodily secretions – They ain’t going anywhere soon. I’ve always fitted snugly in the ‘Squeamish’ category, particularly in relation to other people’s bodily waste.

Though it’s something I’ve had to get over since having twins.

The boy one is currently potty training (the girl one, mercifully, somehow trained herself in a weekend – clever lil’ lassie!!).

It has felt like I’ve been drowning in wee these last few weeks. Often not realising until that acrid ammonia smell has scorched my nostrils and made me wretch.

I’ve also found pellets of poo in my shoes.

And in the turn-ups of my jeans, snot in my beard, scraped milky vomit out of the most inconvenient nooks and crannies.

What, do you want me to go on forever? Be Zen, breathe deeply and accept it. - Gram Canyon.

Dad Magic

My Dad who sadly is no longer with us to celebrate Father’s Day created what I describe as Dad Magic. This is the indescribable feeling that you can only get by spending time with your Dad. The best example of dad magic I have are the times when he used to get home from work on his motorbike and let me sit on the back with a helmet.

We'd ride up and down our road before he put it away in the garage. We were probably only doing under 5 MPH but in my tiny 6 year old mind it felt like I was clinging on for dear life to my heroic dad at 80 MPH as we teared around the Isle of Man TT circuit.

What I want on Father’s day is, to be able to create and enjoy some dad magic of my own. - David Taylor

The perfect freeze frame

I am forever saying to my kids "stay just like that, don't get any older". Now don't get me wrong, I love watching them grow up and with each birthday they have I love seeing the way they change.

The joy of seeing them find their own place in the world. But sometimes each one of them looks or does something so perfect (I promised myself I wouldn't cry, sniff, pass the tissues) that I wish they could stay as

6 | editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

they are at that point forever.

Now a photo or video doesn't cut it for my perfect freeze frame. I want to have the feelings, the thoughts that are running through my head, the twinkle in their eyes that a photo doesn't quite catch and everything else about that moment. Except, maybe, for most of the smells, those you can keep. - Stuart Hardman.

Just don’t ask

I never ask the kids for an object or item as a present. Instead I ask them to do something which genuinely puts them out, but they enjoy. This year's request is no devices with any type of screen for the whole day.

Instead we head out somewhere, have brekkie and go exploring somewhere we have never been. Cameras are allowed but nothing else. The world can wait... Just for a day. - Steven Welton.

Go with the flow

Take an interest in what your children do.

Sounds obvious. But when they are telling you the same thing for the hundredth time and all you want to do is tell them that, yes, you understand and would they kindly stop going on about it, just listen to them. And keep the conversation going. Put your own interests aside and go with the flow once in a while.

Other advice to dads: put your mobile phone away. You can live without it and so can your kids. - Dominic Murrray.

So there you have it. This is what we dads want, not just this year, but every year on this most sacred of days. PS: I am not sure that any ideas of these are available on Amazon. For more of this kind of dad chat check out www.dontbelievethehype.biz or follow @DBTHSocialPR on Twitter.

Sunday 18th June 4-7 pm St Pauls Arts Centre, Worthing

TotRockinBeats presents a party that will keep you and your little people on the dancefloor. Featuring a live set by 'The Impellers', an amazing 10-piece live Funk & Breaks band playing a mix of absolute bangers that you'll know and love. An event that brings you a marvellous mashup of entertainment for all ages, that the weather can't spoil. Find DJs playing a mix of Funk, Soul, Hip-Hop, Indie & Party Classics, soft-play area, craft area, Lego, face painting, Bee-fit - Fun Fitness, licenced bar & food, a chill-out zone and so much more.

Father’s Day at Hever Castle 17 – 18 June Hever Castle and Gardens, Kent TN8 7NG Treat Dad like a King with a memorable Super Car themed day out at Hever Castle & Gardens. Presented in partnership with the Henry Surtees Foundation there will be classic cars on display as well as fun activities for the kids. Children can colour and decorate a card for their dad in a free craft workshop and try out the kart simulator for a race around Buckmore Park.

Dads Can Do 18 June Amberley Museum, Nr Arundel, BN18 9LT A special day of hands on activities for Dads and children, bring the whole family to explore the Museum. Enjoy birds of prey displays with Hawking About and steam days with the resident steam trains riding the railway around the site. Free entry for one Dad with a full paying child (not in conjunction with any other offer). The Fairmile Cafe will also be open for cream teas.

The

Dadifesto

That is, of course, when he is not encamped on his sofa, lounging in a cloud of his flatulence and barking orders at his put-upon spouse.

with Dan Flanagan

Fatherhood is a scary thing.

Combine that with the onslaught of an average mid-life crisis, then life as a Dad in 2017 is a pretty daunting task.

We’re a generation raised by Dad 1.0. Our role models were hard-grafting providers who did little of the actual day to day hands-on childcare.

They splashed on the Brut, dished out the discipline and ruled over the remote control of a three-channel world with a rod of iron.

Now in 2017, as Dad 2.0, we’re not only expected to but are proud to do more than our fair share of bum and tear-wiping because being a dad is quite possibly the best job in the world.

We’re the Grange Hill generation that came of age while raving and Britpoppin’ in

the 90s. Imagine the date when New Lad became New Dad, and you will be halfway there.

Now as responsible childrearing grown-ups with careers and mortgages, we expect more out of family life and we want to look good and have fun while we are doing it.

Unfortunately, the marketing world has yet to catch up with the reality of modern parenting.

In advertising, dad is still the hapless sap who simply can’t get anything right.

He burns any foodstuff that dares venture close to the oven, stares blankly at the mere mention of putting the washing on as if he had never visited his own utility room and returns from the supermarket with 15 pomegranates and a party pack of Twiglets when he was supposed to have huntergathered the Christmas dinner.

When major food companies like Heinz release a line of baby foods with slogans emblazoned on the side declaring the product is “inspired by a recipe from Sophie, a mum just like you”, they instantly dismiss the possibility that dads can take an active part in feeding their children.

The implication here is that it is the mother’s responsibility to ensure a child eats well and stays out of danger. What dad is up to while these decisions are being taken is never fully explained, but presumably he’s about to be distracted while bodging a long-standing DIY job, falling off his ladder as he lusts after a woman at least three leagues above his?

The punchline will inevitably see his wife roll her eyes and a team of ad execs will high five, celebrating the fact that they have successfully recycled

the plot of most 1970s sitcoms once again, and been paid handsomely for it.

The concept of women being the decision makers, the shoppers, the child carers may once have held water, but the tide is turning, and marketing types need to realise that. If we feel you don’t take us seriously, we will not take you seriously.

Consumers always have a choice and those brands that dismiss dads risk being left behind.

So how about this Father’s Day, you don’t just settle with getting your dad a pair of slippers or a ’Best Dad In The World’ cup.

Get him something he can really be proud of, like some recognition of equality in the parenting stakes. The word ‘Dad’ is only three letters but they mean an awful lot.

Dan is Editor of website dontbelievethehype.biz - the world’s first agency of Dad - and founder of TotRockinBeats, 3 hours of family friendly funk designed to put kids on the dance floor and babysitters out of business.

GETACTIVE See the endless possibilities sailing and windsurfing can bring Keep your children stimulated, active and entertained this summer by introducing them to sailing or windsurfing through the RYA’s OnBoard programme. They’ll learn an exciting new activity in a safe, structured environment and gain valuable life skills, from problem solving and decision making to leadership and teamwork. The programme also compliments school curriculums in many key subject areas.

Fun, affordable and open to anyone age 8-18, there are over 245 RYA approved clubs and centres across the country taking part. To find your nearest visit rya.org.uk/onboard

rya.org.uk/onboard

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y l i m a F s l a v i t Fes

Just because we have children doesn’t mean we don’t love the festival vibe! Luckily we have some fantastic family friendly events happening within driving distance so we can enjoy that magical festival feeling with our kids. Here’s a selection of our favourites that we highly recommend!

Love Supreme Jazz Festival

30th June to 2nd July at Glynde Place, East Sussex

Now in it’s 5th Year, Love Supreme has already established itself as a key date in the UK festival calendar.

With icons from jazz, soul and R&B headlining the bill, along with the best emerging talent from across the globe, it’s easy to see why. This year is no different, with headline slots for The Jacksons, Herbie Hancock, Gregory Porter and George Benson as well as support from the likes of Corinne Bailey Rae, Laura Mvula and Nao. Across the weekend you can also enjoy some fantastic food and wellbeing classes, as well as talks and panels in the Verve Jazz Lounge.

For your chance to win a Family Ticket for the weekend, which includes 2 adults and three junior tickets, email hello@ familiessussexcoast.co.uk with your name, address and phone number closes 30th June 2017. Find more info at www.lovesupremefestival.com

Into The Trees Festival

9th and 10th September 10am - 5pm at Pippingford Park, Uckfield

‘A day of discovery for parents, grandparents and kids of all ages’ Into The Trees returns to the heart of the Ashdown Forest. A fascinating journey into the amazing world of wood, showcasing activities to inspire the whole family.

Pippingford Park provides the perfect venue for exploration and discovery. Six diverse zones offer demonstrations to open your eyes to the way we can play, work and live in unity with nature. Enjoy the tranquillity of protected ancient woodland and the simple pleasures of spending time outdoors. Kids will love playing in the trees and exploring ways to live in their branches. Take a guided forage to find out about surviving in the trees. Then wander in to a world of art and working in the trees and take in the wonderful wildlife.

The perfect day to end the school holidays at one of the UK’s most magical designated areas of outstanding natural beauty. For your chance to win a Family day ticket email

hello@familiessussexcoast.co.uk with your name, address and phone number - closes 30th June 2017. Find more info at into-the-trees.co.uk

Wild Wood Festival

27th – 29th May 10am – 5pm. Wakehurst, Ardingly, Sussex Enter the heart of one of Wakehurst’s most magical spaces and unlock the secrets of our ancient woodland. Discover the vibrant lifecycle of the woods with the new woodland trail, gather round the woodland kiln to see the sparks fly, or rest a while in the woodland shelter to share a taste of bread from the outdoor bread-oven. Watch woodsmen at work, making products or coppicing the woods, and get a glimpse into what Wakehurst does to protect woodlands such as these for future generations to enjoy.

For young adventurers there’s tree-climbing, archery and fire-lighting, hands-on woodland crafts, not forgetting a chance to let off steam at the Treetrunk Trek.

Then it’s time for tales of folklore by story-tellers and entertainment by the troupe of woodland performers. Take a close-up look at nature in a drop-in photography workshop or make your mark on the woodland art wall. Entry to the festival is free with garden admission. See www.kew.org/wildwood for more detail.

Elderflower Fields Festival

26th – 29th May at Pippingford Park, Uckfield

Elderflower Fields is a three day, green field camping festival designed especially for families with children.

A wild weekend adventure, packed full of music, sports, nature and the arts, all set in the heart of the beautiful Sussex countryside.

Elderflower Fields isn’t known for its big headlining musical acts, the main focus rightly remains on providing a safe and inspiring environment for kids to enjoy new experiences in the great outdoors. That said, you can still find hugely talented musicians and performers allowing a small, grass roots festival like this the opportunity to have fantastic acts that really deliver. See website for full list of activities www.elderflowerfields.co.uk

Spring Festival

13th May 11am to 7pm at St Ann’s Well Gardens, Hove

Durrington Festival

10th June from 1pm at Durrington Recreation Ground, Worthing The small committee run festival returns for another year. You’ll find a great carnival atmosphere, arena events, live entertainment and activities. This year's theme is Pirates, so come dressed up in your best pirate outfit. Nominate your Prince or Princess between the age of 8 and 13 years online, a young person who has done something really good, big or small! www.durringtonfestival. co.uk.

A fantastic, free one day festival celebrating it's 10th Anniversary.

This year sees a great line up of music from Noisettes to Dr Roberts from the Blow Monkeys.

There's a huge range of family activities planned including kid's fun zone, squirrel market, retreat zone for therapies, market stalls, food stalls and hog roast, art & crafts, karate workshops, yoga & relaxation, zorbing, giant slides, bungee trampoline, stilt walking, sumo suits, samba, face painting, tennis coaching, entertainers, and some of the best dance groups from the area to entertain on the main green!

England’s Medieval Festival 26th- 28th August at Herstmonceux Castle, Hailsham BN27 1RN The fairy tale setting of Herstmonceux Castle hosts an epic celebration of history every August Bank Holiday weekend when hundreds of families immerse themselves in the sights, sounds and spectacle of the past. This hugely popular annual event is the most authentic of its kind in the UK, and an unforgettable way for your family to discover the magic of history.

Enjoy a dazzling array of demonstrations, realistic battles, thrilling jousting, magnificent parades, highly-skilled falconry, music, dance and even a hilarious Mud Show. Join the fun with have-a-go jousting, archery and axe throwing; sword school; drum school; plus workshops in traditional arts and crafts for all ages. Jesters, knights, dragons and princesses delight the kids; while the living history village offers a chance to see what life was really like in the middle ages. Come for the day or stay all weekend in the stunning castle campsite. Tickets at www.englandsmedievalfestival.co.uk

To enter our competition to win a family weekend camping ticket please email hello@ familiessussexcoast.co.uk with your name, address and phone number - closes 30th June 2017. www.familiesonline.co.uk | 9

7 and 8 May NEST

This annual procession of joyful music, colourful costumes and jubilant youngsters returns to the streets of Brighton. In an event reputed to be the biggest of its kind in Europe, the 5000 participants from more than 80 schools will be interpreting this year’s theme of Poetry in Motion in their own inventive ways. Join the crowds of proud parents and enchanted spectators. Led by the Hot 8 Brass Band bringing some New Orleans style to Brighton’s streets. From 10.30am Free event.

An immersive performance for pre-walking babies and their carers. Unfolding in a custombuilt performance tent, NEST takes audiences on a sensory journey through the seasons, using playful poetry, sound, live instruments, song, captivating movement, and tactile and sensory play. Gentle, surprising and magical. 10am, 11.15am, 12.30pm, 2pm. Duration: 40 minutes. 1 Adult + 1 baby £10.

Kensington Street, Brighton, BN1 4AJ 01273 700747

We’ve scoured the area for the best local family events this May and June so you don’t have to!

We take great care in compiling our events guide, but please do contact venues before you leave home as things can change.

4 May – 4 June The Warren

St Peter's Church North, York Place, Brighton, BN1 4GU. 01273 987516

Described as the ‘festival-withina-festival’, The Warren is an exciting, imaginative, multi-venue site that pops up for the duration of Brighton Fringe. With over 600 performances from comedy to circus, a Market Town, family area and fantastic food stalls and bars.

Spot the dot for FREE events!

6 May Kids Run Free

Victoria Park and Playing Fields, Norfolk Street, Worthing, BN11 4BD www.kidsrunfree.co.uk Free running event for toddlers to teens on the first Saturday of every month. Register your child online and print your membership barcode to bring with you. Arrive 8.45am for registration and warm up.

5 May – 4 June Brighton Fringe 2017

6 May Opening Saturday

England’s largest arts festival and one of the largest fringe festivals in the world. Set out to stimulate, educate and entertain a diverse range of people through a diverse range of art forms. This year’s programme includes a record-breaking 932 shows and events across a dizzying array of art forms, more than 200 events are free.

Enjoy quality racing at a beautiful racecourse and experience some of the many sporting pursuits available across the Goodwood Estate including motor sport, flying and golf. Visit goodwood. com for tickets. 11:30am - 6pm.

Tickets start from just £10.

6, 13, 20, 27 May and 3 June Monski Mouse's Baby Disco

Komedia, Gardner Street, Brighton

Various locations, Brighton 01273 91 7272 / brightonfringe.org

Brighton Spiegeltent, Old Steine Gardens, BN1 1GY. 01273 917272

Parents and under-5s are let loose on the dance floor in this friendliest of discos. Created by DJ, producer and mum of two.

Get your disco-dancing-booties on to an eclectic selection of retro hits and funky nursery rhymes.

11am. Tickets £8.

Goodwood Racecourse, Chichester, PO18 0PS

6 May Aaaand it’s back! Twig the Pixie Family Funsplosion

Twig the Pixie has lost his marbles! Help him find them in this hit stand-up comedy show for all ages with stories, music, audio visuals, interactive bits and surprises. A family favourite returning to the Fringe and your chance to meet a real pixie from The Enchanted Forest. 4pm (Doors 3:45pm). Running time 60 min. Tickets £5 (+£1 fees).

10 | Tel: 02393 117 561 | editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

6 – 7 May Owls ‘Out and About’

Paradise Park, Newhaven, BN9 0DH

Experience the magic of getting up close to our feathered friends.

Normal admission applies.

7 May Antiques and Vintage Fair Brighton Racecourse, Freshfield Road, BN2 9XZ. 01293 690 777

With up to 170 indoor stalls for you to explore, bristling with some amazing antiques, collectables and vintage items, plus a friendly and welcoming fair. Swing singer Steve Conway performing throughout the day.

9:30am - 4pm.

7 May Village Duck Race

Storrington Riverside walk and Library Car Park Pulborough

Join in from midday for the annual Village Duck Race to raise money for the Friends of Storrington School. There will more hotly contested races this year with 6 heats; the top ten ducks from each heat being entered into the Grand Finale, making 7 races in all. Buy ducks in advance or on the day. There will be fun-fair rides and face-painting, craft stalls, live music, ice-cream and cakes plus the popular BBQ. 12 2:30pm.

Brighton Dome Founders Room, Church St, BN1 1UE. 01273 709709

8 and 9 May Jeramee, Hartleby and Oooglemore

Theatre Royal, Brighton BN1 1SD

We all remember our childhood trips to the seaside. Delightfully innocent and gloriously silly, Jeramee, Hartleby and Oooglemore sees the three characters of the title experiencing the ups, downs and complexities of a day at the beach when you are just a small person. Conveying a huge range of emotions using just their actions and three words, this is a masterclass in physical comedy… with a heart. For ages 3-7.

Duration: 50 minutes. £10, Family Ticket (4 people) £35. Various show times.

12 and 13 May If I Could I Would

All Saints Church, The Drive, Hove, BN3 3QE. 01273 709709

A fast-paced piece of physical theatre featuring virtuoso acrobatics, imagination and humour that recognises it sometimes takes a superhuman effort to rise above the relentless demands of everyday urban life.

An all-female cast delivering a heart-warming message to everyone about resilience in the face of the everyday grind. Age 6+. Duration 45 minutes. £12, Under 16s £8.

Wild Wood at Wakehurst - see page 9 for details

6 May Same Sky Children's Parade

13 May BAFTA Kids - Behind the Scenes

Brighton Dome Founders Room, Church Street, Brighton, BN1 1UE

Luke Franks and London Hughes (CiTV’s Scrambled) present two events. Ages 7 – 12 will see behind the scenes of the films, TV shows and games that were nominated at last year’s BAFTA Children’s Awards. Tickets £5.

10.30am – 12.15pm.

For ages 9 – 13 there is a fun and practical workshop in TV presenting. Is it difficult working in a live studio? How do you stop yourself laughing in front of the camera? £10 per child (adults free). 2pm – 4pm.

13 May The Bolds

Sallis Benney Theatre, Brighton BN2 0JY

The Bolds is a series of tales packed with fun, adventure and laughter. Created by Julian Clary, and the award-winning illustrator David Roberts, Julian reads two stories, while David draws live in this hilarious and creative event.

Age 7+. 3pm.

13 May Comedy Club 4 Kids

Komedia, 44-47 Gardner Street, Brighton, BN1 1UN, 0845 2938480

Comedy Club 4 Kids bring the best stand-ups and sketch acts from the international circuit to do their thing for an audience of children (aged 6+) and their families… but without the rude bits! Featuring MC Tom Webb, Ben Van Der Velde and singer Jay Foreman. Ages 6+. 2pm. Doors from 1:30pm. £8.50/£6.50 Conc.

13 May Horrible Histories

Pavilion Theatre, Worthing, BN11 3PX 01903 206 206 We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead! So it’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories

live on stage featuring all your favourite characters from Britain’s barmy past! Will King John be a martyr for the Magna Carta? Will you lose your heart or your head to Henry VIII? Can Parliament survive gunpowder Guy? Light up your life with the great fire of London! Escape the clutches of Burke and Hare and move to the groove with party Queen Victoria!

It’s the history of Britain with the nasty bits left in! 2pm and 7pm.

Tickets £15. Family of four £51.

Book onlin e and Save !

May Half Term erm is...

Pirate Week!

13 and 14 May Weekend Without Walls

13th May at Easthill Park, Portslade, BN41 2FA and 14th May at East Brighton Park, Brighton. 01273 700747 Two afternoons of inventive performances, from mini theatre shows to bingo, featuring Willy And Wally, Witness This, Corzon a Corazon, Theatre For One, Orbis, To Me, To You and Happy Feet. Pack your family and your picnic and head to the park to enjoy an afternoon of inventive performance. All new shows and completely free. 12 – 5pm.

14 May Walk for Wadars

Goring Gap Green, Goring, BN12 4HR

This is a fantastic family event and is suitable for your canine friends too. The 5 mile walk is along Worthing Promenade starting and finishing in Goring Gap Green near Sea Lane Cafe. All money raised goes towards Wadars Animal Rescue.

Registrations on the day of event.

10am start. If you'd like to get your sponsorship pack early email enquiries@wadars.co.uk

Ahoy M

ateys!

Raise the Jolly Roge r and set sail fo r th Spring Ba e shores of rn Mon 29th M Farm from ay - Fri 2nd June: Our perilo us p on hand toirate will be share swash-bu ck and lead y ling stories treasure ou on the See websi map trail! te fo and to bo r full details ok tickets .

springbarnfarm.com springbarnfarm.com

Just 5 minutes from Lewes, or 15 minutes from Brighton!

Spring Barn Farm, Kingston Road, Lewes, BN7 3ND

14 May Commercial Vehicles

Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre, Station Road, Amberley, BN18 9LT. 01798 831370

Interesting and historic commercial vehicles will be at the museum along with the Borgward Drivers Club. 10am–4pm.

Standard admission applies.

Station Road, Amberley, Arundel West Sussex BN18 9LT 01798 831370 office@amberleymuseum.co.uk

Great days out at Amberley Museum

With 36 acres to explore and 40 exhibits to visit, there is so much to discover learn and have fun at Amberley Museum in any weather.

With over 50 events planned for 2017 including: 27th to 29th May Bank Holiday, Traditional Crafts Weekend.

Please visit our website for more information.

Free car park located next to Amberley railway station. Under 4s go free. Accessibility friendly, and Dogs on leads are welcome.

www.amberleymuseum.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk | 11

15 May Sausages, Spaghetti and Sharks in Parks

Brighton Dome Concert Hall, BN1 1UE In this food-themed spectacular (with the odd shark thrown in), the much-loved illustrator Nick Sharratt shares tasty favourites and stories that are new on the menu. If you want to draw along with Nick, bring paper, drawing things, and something to rest.

For ages 5 - 8. 5.30pm.

17 May Skips After School Club

Theatre Royal, New Road, Brighton, BN1 1SD. 0870 0606650

Friendly, fun and informal sessions for 6–10 year olds. Each themed session includes drama and craft activities, a look on stage, games with squash and biscuits. Children are dropped off and collected from the foyer. 4pm.

Tickets £7.50

20 May Tales of Birbal

The Grand Hotel, Brighton, BN1 2FW

Mashi Theatre’s travelling storytellers stop by to share the enchanting Tales of Birbal – ancient stories of adventure and problem-solving that have been treasured for centuries across the Indian subcontinent.

Using puppetry and music, Mashi unearths the richness in these legends. Age 6+. BSL interpreted show. 50 mins. £10pp, Family Ticket £35. 11.30am & 2.30pm.

20 - 21 May Military Vehicle and Home Front Event Amberley Museum, BN18 9LT

A weekend of nostalgia and history to go back in time to the wartime period. Dress up and be part of this great historic event, and on the Sunday take part in the evacuee train. A vintage hairdresser will be on site to finish your look for the day, and music and dances to enjoy.

Watch re-enactments, dioramas, military vehicles and enjoy period bus rides.

27 May – 4 June Edwardian Life

27 and 28 May Margo Piano Musical Show

Hever Castle and Gardens, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG 01732 865224

Komedia, Brighton BN1 1UN 0845 293 848

Go back in time to the early 20th century and enjoy a fascinating glimpse of the Edwardian era just before the First World War when the Astors were in residence.

Children can take part in an Edwardian school where old fashioned PE sessions will take place and the ‘three Rs’ of reading, writing and arithmetic are taught each day in an old fashioned classroom.

Learn about the study and collection of butterflies and moths from the colourful resident lepidopterist. Meet costumed characters from the era as you explore the award-winning gardens, and look out for visitors arriving in full Edwardian dress with prizes for the best dressed boy and girl each day.

All the family can try their hand at traditional games of the period including a coconut shy, tin-can alley, and bean bag race, or enjoy a leisurely game of croquet on the lawn. Follow an Edwardian quiz though the rooms of the Castle to learn which stories captured the imagination of children in the period. Activities are included in normal admission prices.

21 May Papertale and Half Moon present Boys Don't

The Spire, St. Mark’s Chapel, Eastern Road, Brighton, BN2 5JN What’s a boy to do? From the playground to the classroom, from home to the uncharted waters of online, boys learn that displaying their feelings is a nono. But what happens to emotion that can’t be let out? Through funny, familiar and sometimes heart breaking stories drawn from real-life experiences a show that delivers insights into male experiences of growing up. Age 8 -12 and adults (not suitable for under 8s). 2pm & 4pm. Duration 60 minutes. Tickets £10.

27 May Kids Run Free

East Hill Park. East Hill Way, Portslade, BN41 2FA

27 May Drawing Workshop

Paradise Park, Newhaven, BN9 0DH 01273 512123 Come along to the free Drawing Workshop with artist Lesley Harvey in the Coffee Shop at Paradise Park. 11am – 1pm.

27 May Sunshine Carnival

Eastbourne Seafront, Grand Parade, BN21 3AD. 07903 887 569

The biggest Seafront Carnival in the South East returns, with more than 1,500 walkers expected to take part with some 25,000 fans and supporters. The Carnival will be from the Western Lawns to Princes Park on the Eastern end of the seafront. Live music and entertainment throughout the day. Free entry. www. eastbournecarnival.co.uk

Free running event for toddlers to teens on the fourth Saturday of every month. Register your child online and print off your membership card (barcode) to bring along with you. Arrive at 8.45am for registration and warm up. www.kidsrunfree.co.uk

20 - 21 May Sussex Gardens Open 2017

27 May - 4 June Downy Duckling Days

The stunning gardens at Holford Manor are open for two days from 11am – 4pm. Find rare sheep grazing in the meadow, resident geese, and bees working to make honey which will be available to buy. A perfect day out for family and friends this Spring.

Entry: £5pp, Children free with accompanying adult.

Spring is the best time to meet the new families of ducklings, cygnets and goslings around the reserve! From mallards and tufted ducks to swans and moorhens there will be plenty of busy bird families diving, dabbling and pecking for food among the lakes and ponds. You might also spot dragonflies and butterflies and there will be plenty of colourful wild flowers to enjoy. Daily ducky activities and pond dipping. Story Time and Crackin' Crafts, plus Wetlands Discovery Boat Safari. Activity times vary.

Holford Manor, North Chailey, BN8 4DU. 01273 021241

WWT Arundel, Mill Road, BN18 9PB 01903 883355

12 | Tel: 02393 117 561 | editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

Margo Piano is a young girl with a big dream; she would like to sail away on a boat to discover the islands in the middle of the sea. But there is one big problem – water scares Margo Piano. In this educational and musical show, a one-man-band tells the story of Margo Piano and other characters who are represented by different musical instruments.

For ages 4 to 9. Running time 60 min. Tickets £7 (+£1 fees).

27 - 29 May Castle Siege

Arundel Castle and Gardens, Arundel, BN18 9AB. 01903 882173

It is 1485 and Richard III is King of England. Henry Tudor, Earl of Richmond has laid claim to the throne and landed in Wales, supported by French forces. Seeing an opportunity, a French force has also crossed the channel, seized the Kings Ordinance and surrounded the castle at Arundel. Full of crafts, costumes and armour of the period. Tickets: Adult £21, Child £11, Family £53.

27 – 29 May Traditional Crafts

Amberley Museum, Near Arundel BN18 9LT. 01798 831370

Over the weekend find visiting crafts people demonstrating their skills and techniques. Along with the resident crafts people this is a great opportunity to see many traditional crafts from our past, with many stalls selling their crafts work. Standard admission.

27 May – 4 June Superhero Week

Fishers Farm Adventure Park Newpound Lane, RH14 0EG

Fly over for the Superhero experience of a lifetime! Get involved in the assault course to test your agility and speed. Lift weights to make you big and strong. Dress up as your favourite hero or create your own. You may even meet a REAL Superhero!

28 May Big Family Fun Day

Fontwell Park, Arundel BN18 0SY

A fantastic family day out! Find zorbing, face painting, bouncy castle, fun fair, pony rides, laser quest, mini zoo, inflatable assault course, Plus new for 2017 the Grand Bounce National, a fun inflatable horse race for everyone to enjoy!

Gladiators!

29 May - 2 June Pirate Week

1st & 2nd July 10am-5pm

Spring Barn Farm, Kingston Road, Lewes BN7 3ND

Ahoy mateys! Raise the Jolly Roger and set sail for the shores of Spring Barn Farm, where the ever popular Pirate Week returns for May Half Term. The Perilous Pirate will be sharing swash-buckling stories and leading visitors on the Treasure Map Trail to find the hidden loot! Plus, with daily activities, cute animals to meet and loads of indoor and outdoor play to discover, there is so much farm fun for landlubbers to enjoy at Spring Barn Farm this May Half Term. Visit the website for full details and to book online and save.

28 May Really Happy Kids

29 May Steyning Country Fair

A great family day out and the best way to try out different activities and workshops that local clubs have to offer. There’ll be performances from theatre groups, sports and martial art clubs, circus skills and a chance to take part in workshops and activities. Free event. www. reallyhappykids.com

Music and dancing with many acts to entertain the young and old. including the popular dog show. Turn back the clock and experience the atmosphere of Steyning as an old market town, complete with livestock, rural crafts, stalls and demonstrations, together with clowns, jugglers, puppets, music and other entertainment for all the family.

Free event.

Brighton Youth Centre, 64 Edward Street BN2 0JR. 07856 660664

28 May Dogs Trust Fun Day

Dogs Trust Shoreham, Brighton Rd, Shoreham-by-Sea BN43 5LT 01273 466971

Annual Fun Day with activities for the whole family, 2- and 4-legged!

From raffles to dog shows, craft stalls to refreshments. £1 entrance fee. 11.30 – 4pm.

29 May Love Your Museum

Hove Museum, 19 New Church Road, Hove, BN3 4AB. 03000 290900 Get creative with craft, listen to stories and explore the galleries with some special trails. Make a shadow puppet in the workshop and bring them to life on the shadow screen with the expert help of the exhibiting puppeteers.

Puppet Making workshop 10.30am–12.30pm, 2- 4pm. Dropin, £3. For 6 years and over.

29 May Hove Carnival

Hove Park, BN3 7BF

An exciting afternoon with the main arena packed with exciting shows such as the Galloping Acrobatics, an airborne tightrope and stunt bike show, the Stix Drummers and breath-taking Flyball. Teams will be flexing their muscles with a tug of war and there will be the popular annual dog show with judges searching for the dog with the waggiest tail and the cleverest trick! Elsewhere there will be stalls children's entertainment, amusements, fun fair rides, cake stalls and rides on Hove Park's miniature railway.

Steyning town centre

29 May James Campbell - The Funny Thing About...

The Old Market, Hove, BN3 1AS 01273 201 801

A stand-up show for children over 6, their parents and anyone who likes comedy without the rude words. Making fun of everything from couscous to penguins to Nintendo Wii. Tickets: £8.50.

2.30pm.

30 May Toddler Tuesday

1st & 2nd July 10am-5pm

Spectacular displays of Gladiatorial contests at Fishbourne Roman Palace.

Cheer your favourite Gladiator and decide the fate of the loser.

PO19 3QR 01243 785859 w w w. s u s s e x p a s t . c o. u k

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Amberley Museum, Near Arundel, BN18 9LT. 01798 831370

A morning of activities for 0-5 years. Accompanying adults will receive a complementary hot drink voucher for the Limeburners Cafe. This day the theme will be ' All about trains'.

Standard admission applies.

31 May Family Activity Day

Amberley Museum, Near Arundel, BN18 9LT. 01798 831370

Family activities for children to take part in around the Museum.

Hawking About will be visiting with their birds of prey displays.

31 May The Boy and The Mermaid Connaught Studio Worthing, BN11 1BA. 01903 206 206

Based on an original story by Alex Kanefsky, this new play explores the fate of one little fishing town, exposed to the mercy of sea monsters, mer-creatures and spectacularly bad >>>

www.familiesonline.co.uk | 13

11 June Family Race Day

Goodwood Racecourse, Chichester, PO18 0PX. 01243 755073

>>> town planning. Traditional sea shanties combine with new music in a tale told through lyrical storytelling, quirky puppetry and innovative physical theatre. 2pm. £12 or family of four £40. Age guidance 6+. Run time 55m (no interval).

1 June Living History Day

Arundel Castle and Gardens, Arundel, BN18 9AB. 01903 882173

Set within the upper grounds of Arundel Castle this day will be an opportunity to meet a variety of historical characters, such as a Knight, Pirate and Medieval Surgeon, and try a variety of activities, including archery (8 years plus) and fencing. Certain days will also include falconry, face painter, story teller (please check website for details). Please note - for have-a-go fencing or archery a lower age limit of 8 years of age applies and a height restriction may also apply. Normal admission applies.

3 June Smugglers of Rottingdean

Hove Museum, 19 New Church Road, Hove, BN3 4AB. 03000 290900 This toy theatre show brings you the amazing (hi)story of smuggling in our very own Rottingdean. So buckle your swashes and join Touched Theatre for a tale of sea, secrecy and adventure. Admission £3 per child. 5 years and over. Shows at 1, 2, 3 & 4pm (20 minute show).

3 June Kids Run Free

Victoria Park and Playing Fields, Worthing, BN11 4BD

See listing on 6 May for details.

3 June Aaaand it’s back! Twig the Pixie Family Funsplosion Komedia, 44-47 Gardner Street, Brighton, BN1 1UN

Twig the Pixie has lost his marbles! Help him find them in this hit stand-up comedy show for all ages with stories, music, audio visuals, interactive bits and surprises. A family favourite returning to the Fringe for two shows only, this is your chance to meet a real pixie from The Enchanted Forest. 4:30pm (Doors 3:45pm). Running time 60 min.

Tickets £5 (+£1 fees)

A great family day out with a thrilling afternoon of horseracing, this fixture also features hands-on workshops, farrier demonstrations, a chance to walk the course, trips to the race start as well as a behind-the-scenes tour of the racecourse. A unique treat for children and an opportunity for the whole family to experience the world of horseracing at Goodwood, whilst supporting the highly valuable work of the NSPCC.

3 – 4 June Military weekend

17 June Children's Parade

Join the Fort for their big annual event, where they bring Shoreham Fort to life. They will take you through from the Victorian era, when the fort was first built, right through to WW2.

A fun experience for all the family! From 11am.

Join the carnival parade, a dynamic day of music, dance and creative arts. It starts on Worthing seafront and snakes its way around the town centre.

A fantastic opportunity for the community to celebrate the achievements of our local school children. Starts at 10am Denton Gardens and finishes at approximately 11am at Steyne Gardens. Free event.

Shoreham Fort, Shoreham-by-Sea 07787 994815

3 – 4 June Oskar’s Amazing Adventure Komedia, 44-47 Gardner Street, Brighton, BN1 1UN. 0845 293 848

An original, heart-warming play for young children and their families. Full of good humour, adventure, music and song, this is the perfect treat for your little ones (and you!). Desperate for some fun, Oskar leaves his snowbound little house on top of the mountain to try to find a friendly animal to play with. But where are all the animals? And why does Oskar have to wait till spring to play his favourite game again? Ages 2-7. Adult £8, child £5.

Splash Point, Marine Parade, Worthing, BN11 3PX, 07717 705382

17 – 18 June Medieval Tournament

Arundel Castle and Gardens, Arundel, BN18 9AB. 01903 882173

See listing on 17 May for details.

The Knights, Squires, and Men-at-Arms of Raven Tor Living History Group will meet in a Medieval Foot Tournament representing England, France, Poland and Denmark. With competitions using a variety of weapons, the free-style fighting of the combatants will be the nearest reproduction of tournament combat seen outside of the 15th century. With a Story Teller, falconry display, havea-go-archery (over 8's) and a tented encampment of crafts and displays. Normal admission.

8 – 10 June South of England Show

18 June Race For Life 5k

7 and 21 June Skips After School Club

Theatre Royal, Brighton, BN1 1SD

South of England Showground, Ardingly, RH17 6TL

The South of England Show is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Enjoy the very best of the British countryside, food & drink and outdoor entertainment for the whole family. On the day prices: Adult £21, OAP/Student £19.

Children under 16 go free if accompanied by an adult but must have tickets.

11 June Mid Summer Steam Show

Amberley Museum, Near Arundel, BN18 9LT. 01798 831370

Popular event returns showcasing large scale and full size steam engines on display around the Museum. An opportunity to see some nostalgic engines in steam.

Standard admission applies.

14 | Tel: 02393 117 561 | editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

Steyne Gardens, Worthing, BN11 3DW Women uniting with one purpose, to raise money, to beat cancer.

Go along to support thousands of women young and old and then stroll around the stalls that will be hosting activities 1stvarious & 2nd Julyand refreshments. 11am start.

24 June Kids Run Free

East Hill Park. East Hill Way, Portslade, Brighton, BN41 2FA

See listing on 27 May for more details.

24 June Drawing Workshop

Paradise Park, Avis Road, Newhaven BN9 0DH. 01273 512123 Come along to the free Drawing Workshop with artist Lesley Harvey. 11am – 1pm.

24 – 25 June

Incredible Insects weekend WWT Arundel, Mill Road, BN18 9PB

From 9.30am - 5pm, pick up an activity leaflet at the admission desk, your guide to pond dipping, Damsel & Dragon Boat Safaris, the Butterfly trail and Creepin’ Crafts that are all included in your admission ticket price of £6 per child, and under 4’s are free.

24 – 25 June Emergency Services Weekend

Amberley Museum, Station Road, Amberley, BN18 9LT

Come and see the fire engines from the Museum’s own collection and a range of visiting exhibits. All emergency services are welcome to demonstrate their vehicles at this spectacular event (exhibitors must book in advance).

25 June Go Dad Run

Hove Park, Goldstone Crescent, Hove, BN3 6LX, 01273 292704

The 2017 Brighton & Hove Go Dad Runs are a series of 5K and 10K runs for men and boys to raise awareness of and funds for important men’s health charities.

Registration opens at the Event Hub 9am and will close ten minutes before the start of each run. 5K run will start at 10:30 am.

Gladiators!

1st & 2nd July 10am-5pm

10am-5pm

1 and 2 July Spectacular displays Gladiators

of Gladiatorial contests Fishbourne Roman Palace, Chichester, PO19 3QR at Fishbourne Roman

Throughout the weekend, re-enactment group Britannia will be depicting thePalace. sorts of people found in the fighting arena, such as soldiers who found themselves on the wrong side of mutinies, criminals your favourite orCheer slaves, born to fight.

They will be on hand to talk about their equipment and fighting tactics and there will be displays at 12 noon Gladiator and decide and 3.30pm of gladiatorial contests in the formal Roman garden. There fate the loser. willthe also be lotsof of hands-on activities for the whole family, including a chance to net some wild beasts, join the gladiator school and get a fake wound. Don’t miss this amazing event for the whole famiy!

PO19 3QR 01243 785859

May half term fun at Super Camps

Super Camps' fabulous new Multi-Activity programme based at Brighton and Hove Prep School allows children to get involved in some great activities. As well as taking part in the fun-packed programme, children are cared for by fully qualified and vetted staff to create a thoroughly enjoyable time on camp. As Ofsted noted, Super Camps runs "an excellent programme of wellplanned, fun and exciting activities that contributes highly to the children’s play and learning environment".

Save

15%

Camps run from 30th May – 2nd June. Save 15% with code FAMILIES17. Book online at supercamps.co.uk

Blending Family Homes

By Sarah Macnaught

When overnight stays turn into long term arrangements and two families are coming together under one roof, it’s time to plan how you share a home without letting each other’s stuff get in the way.

Agree that this blending is a downsizing project even if the new home is bigger. Every single person and pet needs to reduce the volume of their possessions, not just the family moving in.

This is too often overlooked and can make new families feel overwhelmed, creating unnecessary relationship challenges.

Both families need to spend time in their own homes decluttering and sorting through every cupboard and box … choose only the things that will bring happiness into the new home.

Donate or gift as much as you can.

Use community websites, charity shops and offer items to friends.

Duplication of goods will mean another cull, so make an inventory of household items and go 50/50 on choices.

When it comes to sorting through stuff, the reality is often worse than it seems, so plan time for this. And lots of bags.

Even a tidy linen cupboard can produce a dozen bin bags for charity. At first, feeling overwhelmed by the stuff that comes out is normal – after that first trip to the charity shop you begin to feel the positive effects. Clients often tell me; “I cannot believe the switch from nauseatingly overwhelmed to confidently getting rid of years (decades even) of unwanted items.”

Getting help from a professional declutterer can make an enormous difference.

Digitize your excess paperwork; old legal documents, divorce files, archived reports – these can all be professionally uploaded onto hard drives and the cloud.

Photograph school projects and pick the ‘keepers’ carefully.

Limit the art hoard to one box per child.

Create boundaries in the new home that help everyone get on; no toy clutter creep into the parents’ bedrooms, no sports kit in the kitchen etc.

Consider girls’ and boys’ only bathrooms (assuming you have more than one bathroom); a highly successful rule as I grew up with eight siblings!

A storage unit is not a solution – it’s a financial burden, that can escalate for decades.

Add up the monthly cost for a unit and multiply it by 36 months, not the 3 months you think it will be in there. Still worth it? The UK has more than 50% of all storage units in the EU. We have an unhealthy imbalance when it comes to holding on to possessions.

Downsizing and curating belongings is a very rewarding experience for families coming together. The emotional relief and physical freedom after letting go of excess possessions is worth the effort for a happy and healthy new home.

Sarah Macnaught is a Professional Declutterer and Home Organiser based in London. She works to help clients make decisions about their belongings and getting stuff sorted. Find her at rightsize.co.uk and follow her on Twitter @RightsizeHQ

www.familiesonline.co.uk | 15

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04/04/2017 10:00

Immerse yourself in Wakehurst’s wonderful woodland festival Woodland crafts | tree climbing | storytelling | archery

27 – 29 May

Ten minutes’ drive from Haywards Heath For details visit kew.org/wildwood