Families Suffolk: Issue 37 Sept / Oct 2017

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FREE e m

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In this issue

Baby Art...

We talk to Baby Art UK about this fun and creative style of newborn photography.

Huddl parent Talks A fantastic programme of parenting advice events coming to Ipswich this Autumn.

October Half Term Some great ideas for places to go and things to do during October half term!

Issue 37: September / October 2017

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familiesonline.co.uk Families Suffolk: Issue 37 1

Welcome & Contents

Hello...

.

In This Issue..

A note from the Editor

Welcome to a ‘new look’ Families Suffolk Magazine. As if the summer holidays weren’t hectic enough, we have been busy the last few months working on a fresh new look magazine - we hope you like it.

Main Feature:

Baby Art 12-13

The summer holidays are finally over, and I hope the return or start of school has gone well. I think this picture of my daughter Emily sums up the end of the summer holidays in our house perfectly - complete exhaustion and the house in total chaos!

So here we are, the Autumn issue, and what a packed magazine it is. I have been exploring the world of Baby Art, and have even roped in a family friend to help me, our new light-hearted columnist “The Godfather” also shares his findings on this subject!

We have included a number of fantastic articles to help guide and inform parents on a range of different issues from Common Childhood Illnesses to Family Law. We also have a number of great Reader Offers and Competitions on pages 22-23. Happy Reading!

With Best Wishes

Stacey Phillips Editor

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16-17

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Cover Image With thanks to Baby Art UK for the Cover Image.

Contact us Editor: stacey@familiessuffolk.co.uk | 07951 946736 Advertising: lisa@familiessuffolk.co.uk | 01473 788546 editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk Events and What’s On: editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk Printed in the uk by Fuller Davies Ltd, Ipswich using only paper from Design & Editing: FSC / PEFC suppliers www.fullerdavies.com stacey@familiessuffolk.co.uk

OUr next issue: Nov / Dec Circulation: 17,000 copies of Families Suffolk are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected retail outlets and various other distribution points throughout Suffolk. If you would like copies for your organisation please get in touch.

Print Disclaimer: Families Suffolk Ltd is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Suffolk Ltd are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Suffolk Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Suffolk Ltd; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

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Contents 3 4 5 6 - 8 9 - 10 11 12 - 13 14 15 16 - 17 18 19 20 - 21 12 23

Suffolk Fab 40 Adventures Family Finance Clubs & Classes Feature: Education Feature: Suffolk Baby & Toddler Show Dreams & Wishes - Interior Design FEATURE: Baby Art “The Godfather” Column: Part 1 Public Health FEATURE: Huddl Parent Talks Suffolk Fire & Rescue Service Family Law What’s On Family Offers Family Competitions

Families Suffolk: Issue 37

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Our community

Suffolk Fab40 Adventures Suffolks’ Fab 40 Adventures is an exciting programme which aims to help inspire families with wonderful ways to leave their living rooms behind and step outside into their local park or further afield and explore the amazing world of nature on our doorstep.

Autumn

1. Make a den

The perfect inspiration for you, your family & friends to leave the living room behind & get out and enjoy Suffolk’s great outdoors, or even your own back garden!

There are 10 fab adventures for each season, all tried, tested or suggested by over 400 helpful children, mums, dads, grannies and granddads!

Have fun and feel good too Getting outdoors can be a real breath of fresh air and a spot of gentle exercise can be shared and enjoyed by all ages. Having a bit of wild time is not only fun, it makes you feel good too and even if you live in a town in this county, wild green spaces© Steve are Aylward never far from your doorstep.

Take the Top 10 AUTUMN Challenge Go wild and see how many outdoor adventures you can complete this to g o ? Autumn.

You’ll find lots of tips on v isi t fa b 4 O s u ffo l k . co . u k tomuch day Suffolk places to go and so more information at:

www.fab40suffolk.co.uk

Gather together fallen branches either in the wo ods or your back garden and construct your own hideout.

to tick when you’ve done th em!

6. Collect and roast Sweet Chestn uts

Once roasted, the y are delicious to eat.

Don’t confuse them wit h the non-edible conker !

7. See and he ar the clash of antlers

2. Bake a wild blackberry pi

e

Pick deliciously juicy blackberries fro m the hedgerows to make a tasty pie or crumble.

3. Carve a pu mpkin lanter n and make soup too

Red deer stags clashing antlers in the fight for a mate is one of nature’s greatest specta cles. Our Suffolk Coast he athlands rank amongst England ’s best places to witness the red deer ‘rut’.

8. Capture the colours of autumn

Be sure to keep the pumpkin’s fru flesh when you ity make your Hallow een lantern.

It will make a tas ty soup.

4. Build a hom e for wildlife in your garden

The choice is you rs and you don’t ha ve to stop at just on e!

5. Kick fallen leaves on a walk in th e woods

Enjoy kicking up colourful autum n leaves on a walk throu gh one of Suffolk’s broad leaf woodlands.

Nee d

t forg 4 Don’ et

m o re i n fo r m a t ion

Take photos of the wonderful colou rs or make pictures to your own designs using collected leaves.

9. Find all sort s of pine cone s and make seas onal decorations

Collect, then cre ate perhaps the cutest hedg ehog friends or keep them for Christm as decorations.

1O. Eat an ap ple straight from the tree Remember to giv e it a wash or wipe first!

? visi t fa b 4 O s u ffo l k . c o . u k

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Families Suffolk: Issue 37

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Family Finance

FAMILY Finance

Did you know the Old £1 Coins will cease to be legal tender this October?

Hot on the heels of the new polymer £5 note, the new 12-sided pound coin became legal tender on 28 March 2017.

Tracey Emsden, Savings Manager at Ipswich Building Society tells us more.

The world may be becoming increasingly digital, but there is still a need for physical currency. This year we have seen many changes, with paper £5 notes ceasing to be legal tender and also the recent launch of the new £1 coin.

It doesn’t stop there, as on 14 September a new polymer £10 note goes into circulation.

With all of these changes it is easy to get confused about what coins and notes you should be using.

After the introduction of the new £10 note, which features Jane Austen (2017 marks the 200th anniversary of her death) the next big change is that the current, or old style, £1 coin will

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cease to be legal tender as at midnight on 15 October 2017.

This means you’ll no longer be able to use it to pay for goods and services.

a ‘latent image’ – this is like a hologram that changes from different angles, either showing a ‘£’ symbol or the number ‘1’.

That’s not all that has changed.

There are some £1.3 billion old style £1 coins in the UK, so you might wish to check your piggybank, loose change jar and down the back of the sofa before the cut off date. After then, you will, however, be able to pay the coins directly into your bank or building society account.

“One in thirty round £1 coins in circulation is a counterfeit”

You’ve most likely already seen the new coin, which is made of two metals and includes

Billed as “the most secure coin in the world”, the Royal Mint has stated alongside other protection measures the coin has a hidden high security feature to protect it from counterfeiting in the future.

About the new £1 coin The new decorative graphic was created by David Peace, age 15, who won a public competition from over 6,000 entries The coin features the fifth coin portrait of Her Majesty the Queen It is thinner and lighter than the previous coin Around 1.5 billion new coins have been produced

by The Royal Mint in Llantrisant, South Wales

If you need a safe place to deposit all your old £1 coins visit a branch of Ipswich Building Society today. Find a branch at: www.ibs.co.uk

Families Suffolk: Issue 37

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Clubs & Classes R E C O M M E N D E D

B Y

F A M I L I E S

S U F F O L K . . .

provide industry standard support through all aspects of music – song writing, performing live, music videos, meeting your favourite bands & much more!

Our AIMS...

This new music class is aimed to encourage children to develop their passion for music from a young age. With a carefully structured course closely linked to the National Curriculum.

What We Do...

Have you always dreamt of being in a band, being a singer or just being able to meet like-minded people with a passion for music? Band Academy aims to

At Band Academy, we aim to provide a safe, secure and relaxed environment, offering a range of music-based activities and workshops to reflect the interests of the children in our care. Your child doesn’t have to be the next Beethoven or Paul McCartney, neither do they need to be able to play an instrument. We pride ourselves on accepting and encouraging all levels of talent.

The Ultimate Band Experience...

Write or work on a new song, record it, learn to play it live and make a music video to top it off. But we don’t stop there, every CD needs artwork right? Be in your own photoshoot and choose the best photo to represent your new song.

To find out more visit: www.bandacademyuk.com

SPECIAL OFFER 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

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

You can also follow us on familiesonline.co.uk

Families Suffolk: Issue 37

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Education

Does your child Need a tutor?

Children are expected to find their school work challenging, as this drives them forward and helps them to learn...

The Community Schools are a Suffolk based initiative run by local teachers each with a vocation for helping every child to discover their unique brilliance

However, if the challenge is too great and the obstacles to learning seem too high, it can leave a child feeling demoralised and disinterested, and might even result in them falling behind their classmates. The same can happen when a child finds their work is not challenging enough - the lessons can become boring and the child can slip behind through a lack of effort. If you suspect that your child is having problems with school work for any reason, you might be wondering whether extra tuition and support could help.

Understanding when your child may need a tutor Sometimes it can be easy to tell when tuition might help. If you child has a natural aptitude for a certain subject and performs above their expected level, they might enjoy being challenged by a private tutor who can concentrate on their own abilities. Similarly, if you know your child has particular educational needs, you may want to address those needs with added support from a personal tutor.

Supporting children aged 8-18, Community Schools across Suffolk focus on building the core skills for confidence in maths, English, science and modern languages.

• Striving for excellence • • Struggling for confidence • • Seriously weary of work-sheets • • Simply catching up • Sometimes the personal support of an experienced and friendly teacher who is on your side, not distracted by 30 other children, is just what is needed to bring the joy back to learning.

It may only need a term or two of support to build confidence and provide the life-skill of effective learning that will help your child to thrive.

Call Principal Claire Meadows-Smith today on: 0774 703 7441

Learning centres across Suffolk Email: Claire@TheCommunitySchools.co.uk Facebook: The Community Schools - Suffolk

www.TheCommunitySchools.co.uk 6

However, it can sometimes be a little harder to tell when tuition would be of benefit to your child - especially if they seem to have coped well with schoolwork up until this point.

Some children can become quiet and withdrawn, others can get elusive and defensive, and problems at school can even lead to disruptive and aggressive behaviour.

Signs that your child may be having problems with their schoolwork: A sustained fall in grades or performance Not talking about school and hiding school reports Anxiety and/or behavioural problems at home and at school Trying to avoid going to school or doing homeworkng Showing a lack of interest in school or seeming bored.

This is not an exhaustive list: every child is different, and you know your own child’s patterns and behaviours better than anyone.

Choosing the right tutor for your child If you have identified that your child has special educational needs or if you suspect that this may be the case, enlist the support of your child’s school and see if anything can be done to help them during lessons. The school will also be able to help if you have concerns about a gifted child who is losing interest in their lessons, or who is hoping for extra challenges to push them forward in their skills.

Once you have established a support network for your child within the school, consider if a tutor would suit you and your family. Private tuition is not as expensive as you might think, and it is proven to help children who typically struggle in a classroom environment to get back on track with their lessons.

Families Suffolk: Issue 37

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EDUCATION

Govern Suffolk Schools Become a school governor Could you put your skills into a Suffolk school by becoming a school governor?

If you’re looking for a way to give back to your community and have a positive impact on the education of children and young people in Suffolk, we want to hear from you.

450 Vacancies Suffolk County Council is launching its Govern Suffolk Schools campaign to help fill the 450 vacancies that currently exist across the county. School governors play such an important role within the education system, providing strategic leadership and accountability, ensuring the school is as good as it can be.

Making a valuable contribution A governor can make a really important contribution to a child’s life, whilst developing personal and professional skills at the same time. Being passionate about improving outcomes and opportunities

for children and young people is essential. You can make a real difference, like Emma did.

EMMA’s Story Emma Oddie is a School Governor from Sudbury: “I became a governor because I wanted to give something back to my community. I am able to use my strategic thinking and previous experience working in education and business to make a difference to my local school which is really rewarding. You can give as much time as you’re able to and to see how much the school has progressed since I’ve been there, meeting its targets and becoming a better school, is great to see”.

“

I became a governor because I wanted to give something back to my community.

“

Learn More If you, or someone you know, would like to learn more about the role and how to apply, please visit

www.suffolk.gov.uk/ governsuffolk.

Alternatively, you can Call: 01473 263972 or Email: governance@suffolk.gov.uk.

Take action today...

You can watch Emma’s story and see how other Suffolk residents are making a positive impact on the lives of children and young people by visiting the Govern Suffolk website.

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Families Suffolk: Issue 37

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Education

1 OCTOBER – 20 NOVEMBER

Starting Nursery Or pre-school

KUMON MATHS AND ENGLISH STUDY CENTRES Book your two-week Free Trial now!

Ipswich Central Ipswich Nacton Road

01473 614 665 01206 577 150

Terms and conditions apply. Fees vary. Participating study centres only.

Please refer to your local study centre. Subject to availability.

September marks the start or return to school for many, but younger children start Nursery and Preschool at many different times throughout the year. Jo Pike, Manager of The Children’s Triangle Nursery in Ipswich shares her advice for parents.

This is an exciting new chapter in their little lives–but for many parents it may also bring with it feelings of anxiety or sadness at the fact that your child is taking their first steps in independence.

At The Children’s Triangle Nursery, we work closely with our new families prior to starting to ensure that everyone feels happy and ready for this change. We organise home visits, a key person to look after your child and a number of Nursery trial sessions which you can also attend. We get to know your child’s likes / dislikes, routine and they get to feel comfortable with us too.

We find our approach so effective that the children often run straight in on their first day ready to play – which helps parents feel more at ease.

Top tips for your first day at Nursery Allow plenty of time – don’t be in a position where you need to rush off. As this is likely to make you and them stressed.

Don’t have long drawn out goodbyes and let them know when you will be back ‘Mummy will be back after lunch’

Birch Farm Nursery Established 1991 – 2016

25 Years

Try not to let your child see if you are anxious or upset as it is likely they will pick up on these feelings and become upset themselves. Don’t worry, your Nursery / childcare provider will ring if there is a problem and you can always ring them too to find out how their day is going.

Remember every child responds differently and our experienced staff are used to dealing with every situation.

 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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Nurseries open up a whole new world for your child – a chance to learn and play in a new social environment with some amazing activities. The Children’s Triangle Nursery is just off Ranelagh Road / London Road and offers high quality care for 2 – 5 year olds all year round.

The Nursery has a strong focus on the outdoors – the children are taken out on weekly forest school sessions by a qualified Forest schools Practitioner (available at no extra cost) and they have a well equipped outside area complete with roaming chickens and guinea pigs!

The Nursery is part of the OUTSTANDING Bows and Arrows Group, which owns 5 children’s Nurseries across Ipswich.

For more information visit: www.bowsandarrowsgroup.co.uk.

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Suffolk Baby & Toddler Show

Suffolk Baby & Toddler Show Where: The Ipswich Hotel, IP8 3JD • When: Sunday 15th October • What Time: 10am - 3pm Look who will be there...

Now in its 3rd year, the Suffolk Baby & Toddler Show has become the biggest parenting event in the county!

Celebrating everything pregnancy to pre-school, there will be over 40 fantastic Suffolk based businesses, running stalls and free activities covering every aspect of pregnancy, babies, toddlers and children up to 5 years old.

Over 40 fantastic local businesses, running stalls and free activities.

There is a full programme of activities and demonstrations for you to try out. Including Jo Jingles.

“Jo Jingles is in its 22nd year of offering fun, educational music and movement classes for babies, 3 months to 5 years

old. Classes cover a range of pre-school topics and include sensory play for babies and an assortment of fun props, puppets and visuals as well as games and stories for the older children. Jo Jingles and Katie look forward to meeting you at the show and giving a demo of the fun!”

Early Bird tickets Early Bird tickets are available on-line and cost just £3.50 each. The show organisers also have 500 fantastic Goodie Bags to give away to the first 500 advanced ticket holders.

Tickets can be bought on the door for £4.00 (cash only).

Children under 16 go FREE.

Believers in Outdoor Learning and Play

30 HOUR FUNDED PLACES AVAILABLE High Quality care for 2—5 year olds in a Spacious and Welcoming environment. Open Mon—Fri 8am—6pm, 50 weeks of the year

Find us just off Ranelagh Road and London Road, IP2 www.childrenstrianglenursery.com Call 01473 253335 E: admin@childrenstrianglenursery.com

BABYSIGNING

To Find out more

taught by experts ~ delivered with love

tinies|toddlers|talkers

For more information visit: www.yourlocalbabyshow. co.uk

SUFFOLK CLASSES NOW BOOKING! more information and booking:

MORE

Alison on 07720 349 424 alison@littlesignersclub.co.uk

ONLINE familiesonline.co.uk

www.littlesignersclub.co.uk has definitely saved us a few tantrums “ Babysigning – I can’t thank you enough!

familiesonline.co.uk

“

Whether you are expecting your first child, or a seasoned professional when it comes to this parenting game, you will not want to miss the Suffolk Baby & Toddler Show this October.

Families Suffolk: Issue 37

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Suffolk Baby & Toddler Show

Show Sponsors

independent g n i ch ing from birth a e T imm ironment with sw rturing elnyvtailored actvite

The 2017 Suffolk Baby & Toddler Show is sponsored by two local businesses:

s nu idual in a indiv D e u l c d k s d di Pu

e ’s th t a h …t

Baby Art UK

fere nce .

”Baby Art UK specialise in Maternity & Newborn Baby Photography, The images we create are not your standard baby photographs, these are pieces of art featuring your new baby, These are truly a once in a life time set of images”.

www.babyartuk.co.uk

Puddle Ducks ”Puddle Ducks’ effective, instructorled baby and child swimming classes are all about fun, confidence and safety in the water. Baby and pre-school swimming lessons are offered over five levels and are available from birth—to school age”.

Join us at any point! cl

puddleducks.com

ass

es

Find your l ocal class at

t: 01473 356 222 suffolk@puddleducks.com

www.puddleducks.com

Demonstrations Plan your visit...

The Suffolk Baby & Toddler Show is offering the following programme of demonstrations: 10:30 - 11:00 BabyBallet 11:15 - 11:45 Toddle Talk 12:00 - 12:30 Suffolk Wise Birthing 12:45 - 13:15 Little Signers 13:30 - 14:00 Baby Sensory 14:15 - 14:45 Moo Music

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Families Suffolk: Issue 37

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Dreams & wishes

Children’s Interiors & Gifts Helping busy parents design fun, safe, stylish rooms for their little ones so the kids are more organised and the grown-ups less stressed.

About Diana Stroh Experienced Suffolkbased designer, Diana Stroh, owner of children’s interiors company Dreams and Wishes, uses a tried-and-tested system for designing kid’s rooms by creating maximum storage from the space available.

Whilst most of us start a home improvement project with colour charts and fabric samples Diana only moves onto the aesthetic aspects of the design once every clutter-busting option has been considered and decided upon between you and the kids, so that all childhood activities and equipment are catered for.

Diana knows busy families are sometimes reluctant to start decorating their kid’s rooms, fearing weeks of upheaval and spiralling costs for instance, and ensures her clients are in full control of the whole process with help only a phone call away.

Get in touch Diana will be at The Suffolk Baby & Toddler show this October. Alternatively you can call her on: 07771 528397 or email: diana.stroh@btinternet.com to arrange an initial Free consultation.

Dreams and Wishes Interior Design Service Step one.

INITIAL FREE, NO-OBLIGATION CONSULTATION. This hour-long ‘chat over coffee’ gives you an opportunity to decide whether Diana is the right person to solve your design problems with no financial obligation, and it’s hoped both parties will get on well enough to progress to the next stage.

Step two.

DESIGN STAGE. FIXED COST OF £300 PER ROOM. This stage commences with a site visit, usually an hour in duration, where comprehensive measurements and photos are taken.

There’s also an opportunity for all the family to discuss their needs and ideas with Diana before she heads off to start on your design!

Here your needs are translated into hand-drawn, full colour plans and elevations showing how your kid’s new room will look, based on the budget available, complete with a samples board detailing the overall feel of the new design, all presented in a stylish folder for you to keep.

During her final visit, Diana talks you through the finished design, including the steps needed for you to create it for real yourself. Or, if you’d still prefer a little help, Diana can manage the project too.

Visit the NEW WEBSITE

Step three (optional extra).

Dreams and Wishes have recently launched a brand new website. Visit it today:

If finding the time to manage your project is proving difficult, you can always instruct Diana to take on the work for you. At a cost of £25 per hour, Diana will keep you fully informed of issues and time-frames to ensure minimum outlay and peace-of-mind.

www.dreams-and-wishes.co.uk

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

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Families Suffolk: Issue 37

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Baby Art

• E di t ors F ea t ure •

BABY ART “In this issue of Families Suffolk I have been exploring the fun, creative and imaginative world of Baby Art, and the safety aspects of newborn photography”.

As a teenager I, like millions of others had posters on my bedroom wall of babies in flowers pots, and dressed up as bumble bees, as the iconic images produced by world renowned photographer Anne Geddes began to create a completely unique style of newborn photography. It really didn’t occur to me back then that I had no idea who these babies actually were, that seemed completely irrelevant, they just looked cute and more importantly the pictures looked good on my bedroom wall!

So now 20 years later, and thanks to some very talented and creative photographers, this style of newborn photography has never been more popular, only now we know who the babies are in these pictures - they are our own!

Introducing Baby Art UK I went to meet award winning Suffolk Photographer Brendan Taylor owner of Baby Art UK to find out more about his business Brendan became a photographer 10 years ago following the birth of his own daughter Lacey. By his own admission he really wasn’t sure where his career was going up until that point, and while taking pictures of his own newborn developed a passion for photography and realised this was something he really wanted to pursue.

On 1st November 2008, on his daughters birthday, Brendan opened his first studio. The business has evolved considerably over the last few years with the help and support of colleague Jasmine, and in early 2017 Baby Art UK moved into their new studio and viewing rooms at Kersey Mill. Baby Art UK now also has franchises in Folkestone and Biggleswade, and Brendan has a vision to develop even more franchises over the next few years.

Brendan prides himself on excellent customer service and strives to offer a 5* service: “We had such a lovely day today, from the minute we got there till we left we was made to feel so comfortable and nothing was to much trouble, we got some amazing photos of our baby I’m in love with them” From talking to Brendan and his Fiance Kaylie, it was very clear that they love what they do, however what was even more evident was how seriously they take the safety and welfare of the babies they photograph, and this was something I was keen to explore further.

Every picture tells a story Baby Art UK work with each client individually to create pictures that are both personal and tell a story that the family involved can treasure. The beautiful cover image used for this issue, is a ‘Rainbow Baby’ and the subtle colours in the sky and colourful flower headband are used to reflect this.

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The ultimate Bump 2 Baby package Baby Art UK offers a unique Bump 2 Baby package that provides expectant parents with a fantastic opportunity to capture memories of the whole experience.

Along with a number of photo shoots the package also includes a 4D scan from A 4D Baby in Martlesham. For more information see the special offer voucher from Baby Art UK on p22.

Get in Touch If you would like to find out more about Baby Art UK or book a Bump 2 Baby package visit:

www.babyartuk.co.uk | Call: 01473 517838

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Baby Art

Safety First... Image second!

There is a more serious side to newborn photography and capturing these beautiful images, and this is something that Baby Art UK are pioneering with the help of SIB. Over the last 10 years Brendan has invested significantly in training, for his own personal development but more importantly to ensure the safety and well being of the newborn babies he works with.

Some TRICKS OF THE TRADE Practice images using SIB

Brendan has trained with some leading experts in the field including Elli Cassidy who has been awarded Newborn Photographer of the year by the Independent Professional Photographers Network (IPPN) on several occasions . Elli is passionate about improving standards in safety when posing babies and her commitment to this led to her co-founding BANPAS which sets the industry benchmark.

More recently Brendan has invested almost £1,000 in a specially designed Stand in Baby. This now allows him and his team to practice new shots they would like to create and prepare a set prior to a photography session with a baby.

Stand In Baby (SIB) The world’s first, fully articulated, lifelike and camera ready posing and training aid, specifically designed for newborn photographers, and created by newborn photographers.

It introduces a new level of safety and education practices never seen before in the Newborn Photography Industry.

StandInBaby™ significantly accelerates learning, opens creativity and adds strength to your natural abilities, all while keeping infant safety at the forefront.

Real Photo shoot with newborn

Call the professionals It’s really important to stress that an awful lot of Photoshop and editing goes into creating these images, and the real advice to any new parents is PLEASE DO NOT TRY THIS AT HOME. Many people think the obvious dangers will be dropping a baby, but there are many other safety issues, such as over heating from swaddling.

If you want to create your own Baby Art call a professional.

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“The Godfather” Column: Part 1

“The Godfather” column

Part 1: Baby Art

Person or prop?

How our kids are providing the tools for creative expression.

‘Baby’. ‘Art’. Two words that, on their own, would both elicit a strong (and probably not widely shared) opinion or reaction from me. Together, they represent a concept that compels me to find a quiet room in which to pull out each of my fingernails rather than face discussing it within an open forum. Something that the editor of this publication is all too aware of and undoubtedly the reason why she approached me; a fatherless, childless, single male without the slightest experience or knowledge of what it takes to be a parent, to write for ‘Families’ magazine.

At first I thought that motherhood had finally sent her potty. Until she explained to me the method to her madness in that she wanted to offer her readers a completely different and unbiased perspective on a particular subject matter - In this instance, Baby Art! So, here it is… an ill-judged and poorlywritten piece from a completely unqualified person on a totally unfamiliar topic. Or… a refreshingly different and (hopefully) thought-provoking angle from the perspective of an outsider looking in. I’ll let you decide.

Back to the matter at hand. Seldom will you find a word/topic with so much ambiguity attached to it as “art”. Ever looked up the word “art” in the English Dictionary? Of course you haven’t; you know what it means. It may surprise you to learn, then, that there are no fewer than

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15 (that’s FIFTEEN!) different definitions for it not including specific categories such as “fine art” or “commercial art”.

So, let’s now examine exactly what “baby art” is. As far as my research has taken me, and leaving basic photography to one side, I’ve grouped “baby art” into 3 distinct categories: • The first no parent (or anyone who has even the most infrequent encounters with infants in their lives) will be a stranger to. Anyone ever stuck a piece of paper covered with an assortment of baby handprints in a variety of colours to their fridge door? Thought so. Put simply, art done by babies.

• “Baby art” insofar as this article (and the main feature of this edition) is concerned consists of capturing images or moulds of your child at various stages of growth, presumably in order to build up a collection of pictures and decorations for posterity.

It certainly seems to be entering the zeitgeist of modern parenting, giving rise to a number of companies specialising in newborn photography and providing items such as D.I.Y. casting kits so you can even perform the ceramic preservation of your baby’s existence in the comfort of your own home.

• The third potential definition of “baby art” I’ve found is something that’s recently hit the news agenda, sparking no shortage of controversy from parents

Families Suffolk: Issue 37

adopting different schools of thought as to what is an acceptable employment of a child as a prop for creative expression.

“Nezo art” is a new and growing trend from Japan that’s been inspiring mothers to take creative photos of their babies while they sleep. Literally meaning “sleepposture art” in Japanese, this new style of documenting baby years allows mums to have some fun during their few hours of peace while the little one sleeps, using costumes and household props like laundry to shape scenes that tell stories.

Baby Art UK is another who’ve taken the idea of creating enchanting environments to tell a story using enhanced photography rather than physical props.

Art, in all its forms, has a major role to play in the capture, and thereby preservation, of a moment in time or a physical feature so intimately unique that its sentimental value far exceeds the financial expense.

Moreover, I see baby art in all its guises as a fun and probably welcome outlet for creative expression to an otherwise sober and challenging existence as a slave to one’s brood’s needs.

Perhaps it’s precisely this reason why there’s such a burgeoning industry for the creation of nostalgic content and for baby art in particular. Not so much for art’s sake, than a parent’s desire to look back on their struggle as a largely positive and worthwhile sacrifice.

Written by “The Godfather”

familiesonline.co.uk

Public Health

Common Childhood

Illnesses

Being a parent is a wonderful and rewarding experience. It brings great joy and happiness as well as a variety of different challenges on a daily basis, especially when it comes to your children’s health and wellbeing.

Parents and carers are usually good at noticing when something is wrong with their baby or child from quite early on, but it can sometimes be difficult to know who to contact if you think you might need a bit of help.

In Suffolk, we’re working together to improve the lives of all children. Public Health Suffolk, in partnership with the NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups in the east and west, have developed a handy guide to offer advice about common health issues. These include coughs & colds, allergies, earache, fever, diarrhoea, & vomiting.

The guide also focuses on general welfare as well as social and emotional wellbeing. It provides information that allows you to learn how to spot the signs of serious illness and how to cope if an accident happens. If you know the basics and you are prepared, you will find it easier to cope.

Every parent or carer wants to know what to do when a child is ill.

You can use the Common Childhood Illnesses guide as a resource to learn how to care for your child at home, when to call your GP, when to discuss with your health visitor or pharmacist, and when to contact the emergency services:

Use the guide below to help you choose where to go for help Grazed knee Sore throat Coughs and colds

Self Care

You can treat minor illnesses and injuries at home by using the recommended medicines and making sure they get plenty of rest. www.nhs.uk

As a parent, if you are: Unsure Confused Need help

NHS 111 For 24-hour health advice and information

Call NHS 111 when it is less urgent than 999 www.nhs.uk/111

Mild diarrhoea Mild skin irritations (including spots/rash) Mild fever

Pharmacist For advice on common illnesses, injuries and medication.

To find your local pharmacy and its contact details visit: www.nhs.uk/ chemist OR text ‘pharmacy’ to 64746 for your nearest 3 pharmacist details.

High temperature Head injuries not involving loss of consciousness Persistent cough

Doctor/GP For the treatment of illnesses and injuries that will not go away.

Doctor/GP

Minor bumps, cuts, and possible fractures (during 09:00-17:00) Dehydrated, Headache or Tummy pain

Minor Injuries Unit For treatment of minor illnesses and injuries without an appointment.

Minor Injuries Unit

Unexpected and sudden sickness Severe pain Worsening health conditions

Urgent Care When you need healthcare in a hurry, 24 hours a day

A&E

Choking Loss of consciousness Fitting or Broken bones

A&E or 999 For very severe or life-threatening conditions

A&E

Download the complete guide The guide is available to download for free from the App Store and the Google Play Store. You can find the app by searching ‘Suffolk child health’. It can also be downloaded and printed by visiting

www.suffolk.sensecds.com/cci.

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Families Suffolk: Issue 37

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FEATURE: Huddl Parent Talks

HUDDL Parent Talks

Huddl, is a social business, co-founded by Katie Lawson, a Suffolk mum who wanted to know more!

What we believe Across the UK, there’s a growing concern about the well-being of children.

Pressured by exams, their peers, social media and other factors, children are feeling the strain: the latest research shows that 1 in 10 of 5-16 year olds have a diagnosable mental health problem.

The good news is that healthcare professionals are working together to try and prevent such illness occurring and to develop better coping strategies if they do.

Support is often provided for teachers, and others involved in education, and increasing number of schools are giving their pupils a greater

understanding of mental health but we at Huddl believe the parent body is often forgotten and left behind.

Parents now know that mental health problems in children can be as serious and life changing as physical illnesses. Every family has a unique journey and will need different tools along the way.

As parents we wanted to know and do more to help our children flourish, early intervention is often the key.

Huddl Parent Talks are the start, with future plans to include Huddl Communities to continue discussions and support one another when problems arise.

“

Huddl provides a platform for parents to access up-to-date expert advice, so that we can help our children with the pressures of growing up.

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“

Katie and her family

ABOUT KATIE “After 15 years in sponsorship and events, most recently as Head of Events for the Essentially Group, I was looking for a new and more meaningful challenge. With 3 young children I wanted to gain further insight into all the possible problems they could face so that I can be better equipped and more confident in helping them. Huddl is a way for me and other parents to do this”.

Forthcoming parent talks There are 3 Huddl Parent Talks at Trinity Park, Ipswich taking place this Autumn, on topics we believe all parents want to gain support and knowledge on: • Social Media and Internet Safety • The Changing Teenage Brain • Anxiety, Grit & Resilience

Families Suffolk: Issue 37

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FEATURE: Huddl Parent Talks

HUDDL Parent Talks

Social Media & Internet Safety

The Changing Teenage Brain

Anxiety, Grit & Resilience

Thursday September 14th 7pm - 9.45pm

Tuesday 10th October 7pm - 9.45pm

Tuesday 14th November 7pm - 9.45pm

The pressure to communicate continually is a newfound anxiety. We are the first generation of parents dealing with this element in our children’s lives. How do we manage the best balance? How do we ensure they can safely operate and have the strength to talk when they are in distress?

There is new scientific research revealing how the brain changes as a teenager.

What’s going on in our children’s heads at this key stage of life? Why is everything so overwhelming and reactionary? How can we communicate better with them?

Some children easily bounce back from setbacks whilst others find it hard to keep going. What is it that enables some young people to learn from their failures? What does it means to be resilient? How do we develop this skill in ourselves and our children?

Speakers Professor Emma Bond University of Suffolk and author of Childhood Mobile Technologies and Everyday Experiences.

Lorin LaFave – After her son Breck Bednar was tragically murdered, by someone he met online, Lorin now campaigns for a safer internet for young people through education and empowerment.

Jonathan Taylor –10 years in the Met as the Lead Covert Internet investigator within the UK, now advisers law enforcement and academics on the dangers of online grooming.

Speakers

Speakers

Dr Rosemary Taylor – An advisor to the UN, COBIS consultant, regional editor of The Good Schools Guide and International speaker on the subject of the development of the teenage brain Natasha Devon – Co-founded the Body Gossip education programme and the Self-Esteem Team, previously employed by the Department of Education as its first ever mental health champion for schools.

BOOKING INFORMATION Tickets cost £15 for 1 or £40 for 1 ticket to all 3 Huddl Parent Talks. Book you tickets here:

www.huddl.uk

Dr Tina Rae – Prolific author, member of the European Network for Social and Emotional Competence (ENSEC) and trustee of the Nurture Group Network (NGN). Tina is also on the editorial board of The International Journal of Nurture in Education and SEBDA’s journal Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties.

Elizabeth Wright – Winner of 3 Paralympic medals in Swimming and cofounder of schools programme RWSI Resilience Wellbeing Success.

David Lloyd Clubs are giving a FREE family day pass (value of £60) to anyone who buys tickets to all 3 events! The pass is for 2 adults and 2 children to make full use of all the brilliant facilities and classes at the David Lloyd Ipswich Club for a day.

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Families Suffolk: Issue 37

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Suffolk Fire & Rescue

e

Suffolk Fire & Rescue advic

FIREWORKS CODE Top 10 Safety Tips...

organising firework events

1. Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable.

With Bonfire Night looming, we have some great advice to ensure you and your family have a fun and safe night.

2. Keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time.

3. Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary.

Despite annual safety warnings, firework celebrations still end in painful injuries for too many people, including very young children.

Yet fireworks can be great fun for families, not just around November 5, but also Diwali, New Year’s Eve and Chinese New Year.

Injury figures support the advice that the safest place to enjoy fireworks is at a large public display - far fewer people are injured here than at smaller family or private parties. But if you’ll be having a firework party at home, you can make the occasion fun and safe for everyone by following the Firework Code.

FIREWORKS CODE Only adults should deal with setting up firework displays, the lighting of fireworks and the safe disposal of fireworks once they have been used. Children and young people should watch and enjoy fireworks at a safe distance.

4. Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back.

5. Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks.

6. Never return to a firework once it has been lit.

7. Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them.

“Sparklers in particular are still thought of as fairly harmless although they account for the largest number of injuries each year”.

8. Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire.

9. Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators.

10. Make sure that the fire is out & surroundings are made safe before leaving.

For more Fire Safety Advice visit: suffolk.gov.uk/suffolk-fire-and-rescue-service

NOW RECRUITING On-Call Firefighters On-call URGENTY NEEDED IN:

Firefighter

Information • Aldeburgh • Beccles • Bungay • Clare • Debenhampack

• Eye • Felixstowe • Framlingham • Halesworth • Ixworth • Nayland • Needham Market • Orford • Reydon/ Southwold • Saxmundham • Stradbroke • Wrentham

FIND OUT MORE Call the On-Call Liaison Officer today on:

07776 475069 www.suffolk.gov.uk/oncall

PB

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Families Suffolk: Issue 37

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familiesonline.co.uk

FAMILY law

The extended family on

divorce In a divorce or separation there are no winners physically or emotionally and whilst the process can be painful for the couple involved, it can be even more damaging for the children and extended family. More often than not it can be all too easy for the couple at the centre of the breakup to forget this fact.

FAMILY LAW ADVICE FROM

When couples separate it can often feel like a bereavement.

If the process and transition from a single family unit into two separate units is not handled sensitively, it can have a devastating effect on the children.

Children love to be loved and to have the security of knowing they are loved. Extended family such as grandparents have a key role to play in ensuring that children feel loved and reassured during what can be a difficult time.

Therefore it is essential that the separating couple make an active choice to keep the family close and surround the children with family members from both sides.

Children love to be loved and to have the security of knowing they are loved.

In many families grandparents already play an active role in their grandchildren’s lives, by helping out with childcare for example; therefore children can develop a bond and relationship of trust with

their grandparents which is completely different to the one they have with their parents.

However, grandparents can feel helpless if the parents decide to separate, feeling that they do not have any say as to whether they can even see their grandchildren.

Practitioners will always actively encourage parents to agree the arrangements for children, in particular where and with whom the children should live each day of the week. Once this has been established each parent can then discuss those arrangements with the grandparents and hopefully agree a pattern that allows all of the extended family to continue to be involved in the children’s lives.

Mediation In the event that grandparents do feel they are missing out on their grandchildren’s lives, they can look to try and mediate with the parents to resolve the issues which have arisen.

A mediator is an independent, neutral, third party who will try and help all parties find a solution for the child arrangements. Grandparents however also need to respect the parents’ role in raising their child as well as the parents’ and children’s timetable and other commitments.

If discussions break down and a solution cannot be found via mediation, grandparents can seek the court’s assistance. They will first have to apply to the court for permission to bring an application for a Child Arrangements Order.

Grandparents do not have an automatic right to see

their grandchildren and the court will look at various factors when deciding what Child Arrangements Order to make, including how the children will be affected, what will be in the children’s best interest, the parents’ wishes and feelings, and the grandparents’ connection with the grandchildren.

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

· Children - support and expert advice on arrangements for children · Mediation - discussing the issues that matter to you

Ask us about our fixed fees and free 01473 611211 barkergotelee.co.uk consultations on selected services.

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

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Families Suffolk: Issue 37

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What’s on:

September / October

There are some great family days out and places to visit this Autumn, so here is just a small selection of what is going on this September & October...

Clubhouse Kids

Landguard Fort

Stowmarket & Elmswell

Spooky Trail Felixstowe 21 - 29 October 2017 10.00 - 16.00 Join in the half-term fun, with the quiz trail around Landguard Fort.

Messy, sensory and arts/ crafts all-in-one fun for under 5s in Suffolk. Weekday term and weekend family sessions!

New Autumn Term...

Thu 28 Sep: Fruit and Vegetable badge (S) Tue 3 Oct: Fruit and Vegetable badge (E) www.clubhousekids.co.uk

Undley Farm’s Pumpkin Patch is offering an all-new pumpkin picking experience this year. Open every weekend throughout October and every day during half term! www.undleyfarmevents.co.uk

Normal admission charges for the Fort apply, plus £1.50 for a trail sheet (including a Landguard Fort pencil). www.landguard.com

• Places to Go • Congo Rapids, Adventure Golf Woodbridge

Billy Beez, Indoor Play Ipswich

Kingfisher Leisure Centre Sudbury

Open Daily 10am – 9pm www.congorapids.co.uk/woodbridge

OPENING SEPTEMBER 2017 www.billybeezuk.com

Swimming Pool & Soft Play centre www.ssleisure.co.uk

Register for Wear A Hat Day 2018 and start planning your event!

Wear A Hat Day is the UK’s premier brain tumour research fundraising event.

It takes place on Thursday 29th March 2018. March is also UK Brain Tumour Awareness Month. Schools and families across the country get involved to help raise funds for research into brain tumors’.

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Brain tumors kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer… yet just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease.

Families are being left devastated by this dreadful disease. This is unacceptable!

Brain Tumour Research is the only national charity in the UK that is purely dedicated to raising funds for continuous and sustainable scientific research into brain tumours.

Taking part can be as simple as putting on a hat and donating on the day, but most families like to create entertaining fundraising events. Many schools for example have inventive hat competitions, parades and fashion shows and raise hundreds if not thousands of pounds.

More information, event ideas and fundraising tips can be found online: www.wearahatday.org.

Register now on: www.wearahatday.org and start planning your hattastic fundraising event.

Your fundraising pack will be sent out in early 2018 and On average, organisations raise will include leaflets, posters, £250, with small ones £50 balloons, wristbands and badges and some raising more than to help promote your event and £2,000! Whatever target you smash your fundraising target! set yourselves aim to smash it!!

Families Suffolk: Issue 37

familiesonline.co.uk

WHAT’s ON

Halloweenies at Kentwell Hall This October Half-Term, visit Kentwell Hall, for their most fun children’s event of the year.

This Halloween, Kentwell’s School of Sorcery and Magic will be opening for business, and accepting new students. You can go along for a morning or afternoon of fun filled magical learning including wand making, spell school and potions class, they will ensure all of those whom attend graduate with flying colours. As a budding wizard or witch, it’s down to you to put your skills to the test in our magical woodlands, riddled with all manner of mystical challenges and fun characters to meet and interact with.

Activities take place in two daily sessions - the morning session, from 10am to 12.30pm and an afternoon session from 1.30pm to 4pm. Gates open at 9.45am and 1.15pm. Dress up in your favourite Halloween outfits for double the fun - be sure to wrap up warm for indoor and outdoor fun.

To book visit: www.kentwell.co.uk

Afternoon tea AT Ufford park Afternoon tea is fun at any age and Ufford Park, being the family-friendly hotel that it is, is also introducing an afternoon tea menu especially created for children.

Spooky Half-Term Halloween fun for little monsters!

daily Sat 21 to Sun 29 October

www.kentwell.co.uk

2017 08 Families Mag• LONG Children's Afternoon Tea.qxp_Layout 1 24/08/2017 15 KENTWELL HALL MELFORD • SUFFOLK CO10 9BA

NEW!

The children’s afternoon tea includes: a choice of drink (squash, juice, coke, lemonade or ginger beer), a choice of sandwiches, sausage roll, bananas and custard, a ‘Dino’ biscuit, a chocolate chip cookie, ready salted crisps and carrot and cucumber crudités and all for just £9.95.

It is perfect for little ones who would like to enjoy a ‘grown up’ treat.

Ufford Park afternoon tea menus can be found online at:

www.uffordpark.co.uk/food/afternoon-tea

Priced at £9.95 per child.

Booking is essential.

CELEBRATING

YEARS 7

Now serving our delicious Children’s Afternoon Tea.

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It will be available every day between 2pm and 5pm with the menu likely to be reviewed and new treats added regularly.

1992-2

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t 01394 383555 ext.310 w www.uffordpark.co.uk

October Half Term shows At the New Wolsey Theatre This Autumn boasts a wide selection of entertainment for all the family at the New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich.

October Half Term shows Include: • The Enormous Turnip

• The Night Pirates

Mon 23rd & Tue 24th October

Wed 25th & Thu 26th

• Pat-A-Cake Baby

• Comedy club 4 kids

Fri 27th October

Fri 27th October

• GREAT ODDS

• More magic for kids

Sat 28th October

Sat 28th October

To book visit: www.wolseytheatre.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Families Suffolk: Issue 37

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Family Offers

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Families Suffolk: Issue 37

familiesonline.co.uk

Family Competitions

Trampolines

WIN £500

TO SPEND ON A JUMPKING TRAMPOLINE

Featured: JumpPod Classic

Rainy Day Kids adventure book

Outdoor games and activities for the rain, snow and wind.

By Steph Scott and Katie Akers

WE HAVE 5 COPIES WORTH £9.99 each TO GIVE AWAY...

Simply upload a picture of your family enjoying a ‘Rainy Day Adventure’ during September & October to our Families Suffolk Facebook Page using the #RainyDayKidsAdventure.

5 lucky winners will be chosen by the Families Suffolk Editor to receive a copy of the book.

To enter

From the Editors...

Let’s go outside for a magical adventure – whatever the weather As the weather turns into autumn and the kids start watching more television and stare at the computer, how can you get them out and about to enjoy the cooler months? Rainy Day Kids Adventure Book is the prefect book for encouraging youngsters to see the excitement of wind, snow and rain and to make sure you never worry about ‘bad’ weather again.

For full competition Terms & Conditions visit: www.familiesonline

About the JumpPODClassic

The JumpPOD Classic trampoline remains the best selling and most popular trampoline on the market today for outstanding performance and durability.

The new look frame now has five Enclosure poles for added stability and the 7” Euro Spring gives a superb bounce.

For your chance to wiin, just answer the following: On which Industrial Estate in Ipswich will you find Jumpking?

A. Riverside Ind. Estate B. Hadleigh Road Ind. Estate C. Farthing Road Ind. Estate

Email your answer along with your name and contact number to: editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk

by Friday 27th October 2017.

To see the full range and for more fantastic offers and advice visit

www.jumpking.eu or call their Ipswich office 01473 747792

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Families Suffolk: Issue 37

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