Family Matters Spring 2022

ISSUE 83 • SPRING 2022

EASTER RECIPES

WIN PRIZES

www.familymatters-uk.co.uk

QUIRKY EASTER TRADITIONS

For more information call:

07825768711

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2.5 Yrs – School age

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Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays 6-6:50pm, Saturdays 11:30am-12:20pm

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Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays 7-7:50pm, Saturdays 11:30am-12:20pm

5,6,7 Years

Friday extended classes 5-6.30pm

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Friday extended classes 6.30-8pm

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Wednesdays 7-8pm

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Mondays & Fridays 10-11:30am, No Booking Needed, Non-coached reception class children welcome in school holidays

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Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:30-10:15AM

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8:45AM-3PM, 4PM OR 5PM help with childcare.

GYMNASTICS, TRAMPOLINING, ARTS & CRAFTS, OUTSIDE PLAY, DOWNTIME FILM, GAMES ETC. £25/£28/31. Advanced bookings only.

See booking form in the gym/or book by txt 078257687 11 or email libertygymnasticsclub@hotmail.com.

Payment required when booking. Please bring a drink & snack.

Cash/card or bank transfer payments accepted. Appropiate clothing must be worn.

Non-members welcome.

A British Gymnastics registered club with fully qualified BG coaches in Women’s Artistic & Pre-School Gymnastics. All of our qualified coaches are fully insured.

We offer a wide range of gymnastic lessons, from pre-school to adults.

We are dedicated to giving all gymnasts the opportunity to fulfil their potential by improving their co-ordination, physical condition and concentration in a friendly and safe environment whilst having fun!

Our development program aims to reach national grade level. This program is by invitation only. The coaches will recognise talent in the recreational program and extend an invite to gymnasts for the chance to attend a trial session.

www.libertygymnastics.co.uk

WELCOME It feels like ages since we last caught up with you all — we hope you’ve been having a great 2022 so far and are ready for Easter. In this issue, we have some fun recipes you can enjoy together, as well as some of the quirkiest things that happen around the world at this time of year to amaze your friends with.

We’re also looking forward to Father’s Day with some suggestions of fun things you can do together — if you have any ideas, make sure to let us know, remember, you can find us on Facebook and Twitter.

Hopefully we have seen the last of the storms and can start looking forward to some brighter weather, it’ll be lovely to get out and about and enjoy the local area, especially as we come into the summer months.

Don’t forget, we love hearing about all your achievements and news, so make sure to submit your photos to our WOW pages and to get across all your latest school news and we’ll see you in the summer.

Have a great Easter!

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Tips for the perfect family day trip

Fun Easter recipes

Quirky Easter traditions

The benefits of owning a pet

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It’s Spring! School is out and already the children are bored.

Perhaps your ‘big’ holiday is already done and dusted, or is some way off. Either way, it’s time to think about a family day trip.

And whether your trip is to a local beauty spot for a picnic or somewhere further afield, be sure to prepare thoroughly for the perfect day out.

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PLAN YOUR DAY

The greatest thing you can take – whether sightseeing or getting from A to B – is extra time. Young children love to explore and don’t care for the time pressures of travel, so you’re more likely to all retain your cool if you factor the faffing, toilet stops and, dare we say it, tantrums into your timeframe

INVOLVE THE KIDS

When you’re planning your trip, encourage your children to find out about where you’re going. Let everyone choose one activity, if that is viable, so it’s truly a family trip that involves everyone.

DOCUMENT YOUR TRIP

Hang on to bits and pieces from the day as keepsakes: tickets, brochures, a couple of postcards, etc. Your children can then create a way to remember their day when they get home – and share their experience at Show & Tell at school or nursery.

TAKE SNACKS AND WATER

Similarly, you need to be prepared for any delays to normal mealtimes, so take plenty of healthy(ish) snacks like breadsticks, carrot sticks, grapes, raisins etc. Filling up on sweets and chocolate could mean kids are more likely to get travel sick, or get a sugar rush at an inopportune time.

BOOK/RESEARCH AHEAD

If you’re going to a special event, place or restaurant, it pays to book ahead, or check opening hours if this is more relevant. If you arrive at your destination to find you can’t get a seat, need to wait an hour for lunch, the museum is closed on Mondays, or whatever, then tempers will soon flare. And there’s nothing more demoralising than having to hit the road again with tired, hungry children melting down in the backseat. So, where you can, do your homework before you leave home...

LET THE KIDS TAKE SOME PHOTOS

If you have a suitable device or camera, or the kids have their own device, encourage them to take some pictures. It’s another way to get the kids more fully involved with the day, and allows them to record the trip from their perspective, which will be very different from yours.

TAKE SOME ACTIVITY STUFF

Whether it’s to cover a long wait in a café for food, or you’re trapped on a delayed train, you never know when you might need to suddenly occupy the kids. So, take paper and crayons. A must-have for any urban trip!

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Fun for all the family at The Royal Bath & West Show

2-4 June 2022

There is plenty to interest parents and grandparents too, such as The Great British Kitchen with demonstrations over the three days of the show by Briony May Williams, semi-finalist in the 2018 series of The Great British Bake Off and now part of the presenting team of Channel 4’s Food Unwrapped (2nd June); Dean Edwards, who appeared regularly on ITV’s Lorraine and This Morning (3rd June); and ‘Yorkshire Shepherdess’ Amanda Owen (4th June).

The Show’s organisers haven’t forgotten the four-legged members of the family either, as the Pawsability Dog Agility Display is also making a welcome return.

W

hether you are aged 2 or 92, there are reasons galore to attend the Royal Bath & West Show this year.

After an absence of two years, the Show will return in 2022, and coincides with the Platinum Jubilee weekend (2nd4th June). Organisers have listened to visitors and have blended previous favourite attractions with new celebrities and activities, to make the 2022 show its best ever.

The youngest members of the family will love the interactive farming fun at Lakeside Farm, and with everything from sheep and cattle to alpacas, they are bound to make some new animal friends. They will also be able to enjoy traditional rides, such as the Helter Skelter and Big Wheel at the Vintage Fairground, in fact parents and grandparents might fancy having a go too! They should also keep an eye out for the Magical Musical Bike as it comes around the corner, playing tunes and blowing bubbles – if you’re lucky, Steve will jump off and involve you in games, show off his circus skills, or even perform his own large and very visual bubble show. He’ll be joined by Ziggy the Monkey, who will chat to the younger members of his audience.

With all this alongside regular favourites, such as the sheep show, heavy horses, vintage vehicles, and the Bath & West Train, the Royal Bath & West Show is a treat for the whole family. You can even extend the fun into another day by camping on-site.

Advance Saver Tickets for the Show are now on sale at just £22 per adult, which also allows admission for two children. What’s more, Blue Light Card Holders enjoy a further discount, making the Royal Bath & West Show a great value day out for all the family.

Jess Chiplen, Deputy Head of Shows, said: “Our packed programme is a fun-filled day out for every member of the family. With even more exciting things to announce in the coming weeks, there’s never been a better time to secure your tickets.”

Older children are bound to be thrilled by the tree-cutting skills of the Dorset Axemen and the Paul Hannam Stunt Show, which is making a welcome return to the Main Ring with daring quadbike jumps. And don’t miss the sports village, which is bound to bring out the competitive side in everyone!

Tickets are on sale now at www.bathandwest.com/tickets

10% OFF

your booking with FAMAT10*

*terms and conditions apply and cannot be used with any other offer.

Sessions include: Toddler, SEN, After School, Parties and open bounce for all the family. www.jumpinfun.co.uk 01722 445503 1C, Castlegate Business Park, Old Sarum Salisbury SP4 6QX

QUIRKY EASTER TRADITIONS

When it comes to Easter, no doubt you know the drill: chocolate eggs, hot cross buns, trips to church, Easter egg hunts… but did you know that Easter is celebrated in different ways around the world?

Here are some of the quirkiest traditions from around the world – how will you be celebrating Easter this year?

Eating bilbies Did you know in Australia, as well as having chocolate shaped bunnies to eat at Easter they also have chocolate bilbies? Bilbies are native to Australia but are in danger of becoming extinct, they are marsupials like most of Australia’s creatures and resemble rabbits. One way to raise awareness of their plight is by selling chocolate bilbies.

Solving crimes You might have noticed that True Crime is a popular genre here but did you know that in Norway, Easter is the time for solving crime? TV channels run crime shows and it is the time that publishers release their latest detective novels. Apparently, even their milk cartons at this time of year have short detective stories on them!

Hunting red eggs While Easter egg hunts are fairly common across the world, in Greece you will only find red eggs as it is the colour of life and Easter is the time that Christ rose from the dead. It is the most commonly found decorated eggs in Greece and are used in baking and in egg hunts.

Creating the world’s biggest omelette On Easter Monday, the people of Haux in France come together to create a giant omelette which usually serves around 1000 people!

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Fun Easter recipes This Easter, why not spend some time together in the kitchen creating some tasty treats? These family friendly recipes are easy to do and fun too!

Cress heads Not only fun to make, but helps teach children about how plants grow! This is a great one to do together and the kids will love watching the cress grow over the course of the Easter holiday.

You will need: 2 eggs 2 tsp cress seeds 2 cotton wool balls Felt tip pens 1. Parents will have to get this one started – begin by removing the tops of your eggs, leaving the rest of the shell intact. Empty the insides into a bowl (you can use them in some baking or perhaps have scrambled egg or an omlette for dinner!) and carefully wash the shells.

2. Decorate them with pens or paint and leave them to dry.

3. Dip the cotton wool balls in a little water and squeeze out any excess.

4. Once the eggs are dry, pop 1 ball in each shell and then sprinkle the cress seeds onto each one. Sit the filled shells into egg cups and leave in a dry, well-lit place, like a windowsill, for a week. The cress will start to grow within a few days and you and the kids can keep an eye on their progress. By the end of the week, the eggs will have a head of green cress hair!

Chocolate nests

These are quick and easy and if you have some chocolate and cereal lying around, won’t even need you to go out and buy any ingredients. They don’t take long to make and as there isn’t much in the way of cooking involved, even the youngest family members can get involved.

You will need: 50g butter 100g chocolate 3 tbsp golden syrup 100g cereal, Cornflakes or Wheatabix work best Cupcake cases 10 |

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1. Start by breaking up the chocolate into chunks and then either put them in a saucepan with the golden syrup and butter or into a microwave proof bowl. Melt the ingredients together, stirring if you’re using the hob or at 30 second intervals if you’re using the microwave.

2. Once melted, allow to cool slightly before pouring over the cereal. Stir gently using a wooden spoon and when all the cereal is covered, spoon into cupcake cases arranged on a muffin tray. Place the tray in the fridge to set and enjoy!

3. If you like you can even decorate them with mini eggs to look like real nests.

Easter egg brownies

If you have an abundance of Easter eggs or just want to add to the season’s chocolatey goodness, this is a fun recipe you can create together.

There’s something for everyone to get involved with, whether that’s mixing the brownies together or crushing chocolate or even decorating the finished product.

You will need: 185g unsalted butter 185g dark chocolate 3 eggs 275g golden caster sugar 85g plain flour 40g cocoa powder 5 chocolate eggs, Crème Eggs or something similar would be perfect 150g mini chocolate eggs

1. Start by cutting the butter into small chunks and breaking up the chocolate into a medium sized heatproof bowl.

Either melt together over a pan of simmering water, or pop in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time until melted. Leave to cool to room temperature.

2. Heat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan or Gas Mark 4.

3. Grease a baking tin with butter and line with baking paper or foil.

4. In a large bowl, crack the eggs and add the caster sugar. Whisk together until thick and creamy. Pour the melted chocolate over the eggs and fold together. Sieve the flour and cocoa into the bowl and then mix to combine.

5. Pour the mix into the tin and level it out with a spatula. Place in the midle of the oven and bake for 20 minutes.

6. While the brownies are cooking, unwrap and cut the crème eggs in half and then crush some of the mini eggs – either by putting in a sealed freezer bag and beating with a rolling pin or in a pestle and mortar. Leave some whole though for decoration.

7. Take it out of the oven and let an adult press in the crème eggs, cut side up into the top. Scatter over half the mini eggs and then put back in the oven for another five minutes.

8. Once finished, top the brownie with the remaining eggs and leave to cool, preferably in the fridge for around an hour before eating.

If you try any of these, make sure to tag us on Facebook or Twitter so we can see your creations, you can find us @ukfamilymatters

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EASTER AT 2nd - 24th April

Bunny Lollies Workshop Spring Science Easter Crafts Petting Zoo 01823 413923| info@hestercombe.com

hestercombe.com/easter

FREE ADMISSION FOR FAMILIES*

Mick Peter: Old Ghosts during Easter holidays (*Max. 2 adults)

The Tudors:

Mick Peter:

A major new exhibition featuring 25 famous Tudor portraits.

A trail inside and outside the Holburne of amusing sculptures which appear to be drawings that have come to life.

Passion, Power & Politics UNTIL 8 MAY 2022

In partnership with the

WWW.HOLBURNE.ORG GREAT PULTENEY STREET, BATH BA2 4DB

Old Ghosts UNTIL 15 MAY 2022

Supported by an Arts Council England National Lottery Grant.

Image: © Mick Peter Studio Selfie

Image: Queen Elizabeth I by Unknown English artist, circa 1588 © National Portrait Gallery, London

Cheddon Fitzpaine, Taunton, Somerset TA2 8LG

DON’T LOSE

THE KIDS

Keeping track of children at a crowded venue is a roller coaster ride and the bigger the crowds, the more loopy you’re bound to get. A parent’s biggest fear? Losing a little one in the melee. You’ll be able to breathe easy and enjoy the day if you set up family guidelines and what-if plans in advance of your trip. The age and maturity of your children will influence the amount of freedom you give them. Here are a few tips for keeping the family together in the bustle of crowds.

DRESS IN BRIGHT COLOURS

Neon green. Notice-me yellow. Fluorescent blue that screams, “I’m here!” Dress your kids to stand out from the crowd, instead of in typical character tees or sports jerseys. And hey, Mum and Dad: Not a bad idea to wear bright colours too.

MAKE A GAME OF IT

It’s hard for younger kids to stay with their parents when you’re someplace fabulous and there is so much to see. Telling them to ‘hold hands’ and ‘stay near’ is boring, so try turning it into a game and challenge your child to only be three giant steps away from you at all times. Or, if you have more than one child, empower one with the task of doing a head count every 15 minutes.

COACH KIDS ON AN ACTION PLAN

Discuss what to do with your child if he or she does happen to get lost in the crowd. This should include telling them to stay where they are — and never to go back to the carpark to wait at the car. Instead, encourage them to freeze and yell their parents’ names or if that doesn’t work, coach them to find another mum with a child. Statistically, that’s the safest stranger and is low risk.

TAKE A FAMILY PHOTO BEFORE YOU GO

Rally everyone together once you’re all dressed and ready to leave home. Get the children to pose and make it fun. But the secret behind it is that, if you do lose them, you won’t get stuck trying to explain what they look like and what they’re wearing. You’ll have it all right there on your mobile.

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WH

ASHBURTON, DEVON

2nd April – 24th April Easter at Hestercombe Please note - Dare Devil activities and Dartmoor Bike Park available at additional cost

8th April – 24th April Easter Egg Trail 11th April – 14th April Easter Activities at Westonbirt 12th – 14th April Hamelin at the Egg 22nd April – 24th April Spring Camp 26th April Family Takeover Day inspired by Mick Peter 9th – 11th May Rat’s Tales at The Egg 14th May Green Man Festival

ature golf 18 hole min art of in the he rge Cheddar Go

ages!

Fun for all

CHEDDAR

crazy

2nd – 4th June Royal Bath and West Show

GO L F

01934 741 112 Cheddar Crazy Golf 7 Queens Row, Cheddar BS27 3QE 14 |

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5th June Picnic at the Park

HAT'S ON

Get creative with a bunny marshmallow lolly workshop and Easter themed art activities, meet furry friends during a visit from a mobile petting zoo and enjoy some magical spring-themed science!

Hestercombe, Cheddon Fitzpaine, Taunton, TA2 8LG. Looking for some ‘cracking’ Easter fun? Well look no further, as there's something ‘egg-citing’ at Hope Nature Centre this Easter Holidays. Take part in The Easter Egg Trail, and go on the hunt for 6 giant Easter eggs. Find all of them and you’ll get a special ‘carrot’ from the Easter Bunny!

Hope Nature Centre, Southwick Country Park, Trowbridge BA14 9QD. Come and find the treasures of Westonbirt! Collect your blank map from the Welcome Building when you arrive and plot on your favourite places as you journey round the arboretum.

Westonbirt Arboretum, Tetbury GL8 8QS. Into the street the Piper stept, Smiling first a little smile, As if he knew what magic slept in his quiet pipe the while. When a mysterious stranger comes to Hamelin, promising to solve the town’s troubles, will the townsfolk hold up their end of the bargain? Join the Theatre Royal Bath Theatre School in their quest to uncover the truth in stories we think we know. The Egg, Theatre Royal Bath, Bath, BA1 1ET. Get your hands dirty and calluses well worn in for this action packed throwback to the school camps you used to love as a kid. Retro activities and learning new skills!

River Dart Country Park, Devon TQ13 7NP. Join the Holburne Museum for a special day especially for families in celebration of their new exhibition Mick Peter: Old Ghosts.

The Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Bath, BA2 4DB. Rats’ Tales mixes traditional European fairy tales with some brand new stories written by ex Poet Laureate, Carol Ann Duffy.

The Egg, Theatre Royal Bath, Bath BA1 1ET. A family friendly community festival of traditional dance, music, song and folklore led by a 10' giant Jack in the Green. Over 58 dance group (500+ dancers and 150+ musicians), markets, kids funfair, two all day concerts and it's all FREE! Bradford on Avon, BA15 1DE. The Royal Bath & West Show is an agricultural show that celebrates great British agriculture, entertainment, food & drink. Over three action packed days, crammed full of interactive fun, there really is something for all the family to enjoy! You can even camp onsite, for the ultimate may half term family staycation!

The Showground, Shepton Mallet, BA4 6QN. Picnic at the Park, summer’s biggest family picnic is back for 2022! Expect another fantastic line-up boasting an array of unmissable family activities and displays at River Dart Country Park!

River Dart Country Park, Devon TQ13 7NP. ukfamilymatters |

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r u o Col me in!

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National Shakespeare Day 23rd April

A

s well as being St George’s Day, did you know that 23rd April is also National Shakespeare Day? It is the day that is believed to be the date of William Shakespeare’s birth (a not so fun fact is that he also died on 23rd April…) and as he is arguably one of Britain’s greatest playwrights and is responsible for many of our popular sayings, we thought we’d help you celebration with these facts!

W

illiam Shakespeare was born in Stratford upon Avon in England in 1564, he was known for his hugely successful plays and you can even visit his childhood home, it is still in the centre of Stratford!

S

hakespeare was known to have written around 37 plays and 150 poems! Some have been lost and it is believed that some were co-written, but that is still a huge amount of work!

S U

hakespeare was one of eight children, his parents were John, a successful glove maker and Mary, who was an heiress.

T

he Globe Theatre, which is where many of his plays were performed, was an open air theatre which accommodated people from all walks of life, including those that were poor.

If you could afford it, you could have a nice, comfy seat on the upper level with a good view, but if you were poor, you would have to stand on the ground floor where you were at the mercy of the elements!

T

wo of Shakespeare’s biggest fans were royals! He was a favourite of both Queen Elizabeth I and King James VI/I. King James in particular would invite him to perform at court.

D

nlike many of the children of his age, Shakespeare and his siblings actually had a good education and attended several prestigious schools.

id you know that back in Shakespeare’s time, women were not allowed to be actors? All the female parts were played by men.

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T

hakespeare’s wife shared a name with a famous actress, he married Anne Hathaway, a local farmer’s daughter! They had three children together, Susanna and then twins Judith and Hamnet.

A

fter being noticed, his plays became huge hits and can be sorted into three categories: Tragedies, Comedies and Histories.

oday there are loads of cool effects that can be done in theatre shows and the Globe was ahead of its time with its use of special effects. They would use wires, fires and more. Once a canon being fired as part of a play caused the roof to catch fire and the whole thing burned down! It was rebuilt and is now a tourist attraction where you can go watch modern performances of Shakespeare plays.

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THE BENEFITS OF OWNING A PET Over the last couple of years, pet ownership has increased in the UK, but if you haven’t yet taken the plunge and you have pressure from the kids to add a furry friend to your family, here are some of the benefits of having a pet.

Can help teach children responsibility

Whether it is a dog, a hamster or even a couple of goldfish, having a pet is a great way of teaching kids a lot of important life skills.

Not only do they learn practical skills, like having to clean out a cage or feed them on time but it will also develop their empathy and nurturing skills, which are vital for their development.

Can improve your immune system

This is true, on the one hand, having a pet lowers your stress levels, which in turn helps with a much healthier lifestyle, while on the other, having pets that spend time outside means that you are exposed to more germs which will make your immune system stronger over time. According to some studies, owning a pet has even proven to lower blood pressure and cholesterol, both of which also help with maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

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Great for children with learning difficulties

Kids with autism or other learning difficulties can find themselves feeling isolated or misunderstood. Some struggle to talk to their peers and for these kids, having pets is great. Animals are easy to connect with and talk to, even for those that find talking difficult and they provide amazing companionship. For some pets, even those that haven’t been specially trained, can provide emotional support for those who have additional needs.

Can offer protection

Not everyone likes the idea of being home alone, even having a cat around can make you feel a lot safer purely because you aren’t on your own. Having a dog or even a parrot can make your home feel much more secure.

Can stop the development of allergies

Of course, this won’t be true for everyone, but exposing your children to allergies early on can stop them from developing certain allergies. Of course, if you or any older children are already suffering, avoid anything that has dander!

Keep you fit

If you have a dog, no matter what size it is, it will need a daily walk, which is a great way to help you get out and about and keeping fit too. It isn’t just dogs that can help keep you active, having a cat that likes to run around with your slippers or catching a sneaky hamster is also a good way to keep you on your feet!

You’ll never be lonely

If you or your children spend a lot of time alone, having a pet will really help combat loneliness. Even a tank of fish will swim over to say hello to you when you enter a room!

If you work shifts and the kids get home before you, it’ll be an added assurance that there will be someone there to greet them and keep them out of trouble while you’re out.

Convinced? Well, don’t forget having a pet is a big responsibility, you will need to feed them, keep them warm, clean and healthy, have them insured and be prepared for potential vet bills. All of that is worth it though of course!

Do you have any pets? Then share a picture of yourself and your pet with us on Facebook and Twitter, @ukfamilymatters

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Does your child have Myopia?

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They are clinically proven to be an effective solution to slow down the progression of myopia and are as easy to wear as any pair of glasses.

Benefits of MiYOSMART

MiYOSMART lenses with D.I.M.S technology have been clinically proven within a two year clinical trial, the results showed that the level of myopia progression was reduced by an average of 60%.*

MiYOSMART is child friendly and easy to adapt to as they are just like wearing any other single vision lenses.

Visit our practice and ask a member of the team for more information.

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Enter now at www.familymatters-uk.co.uk

Win Prizes

Win a family ticket to The Royal Bath And West Show

WIN ALFIE FOX AND FAMILY TICKET TO AEROSPACE BRISTOL

This year’s Royal Bath & West Show, near Shepton Mallet takes place 2-4 June. The event will feature a plethora of activities, demonstrations and entertainment, including interactive activities for all the family, including the Sports Village, Tractor Ted, Farm Fun Zone and Lakeside Farm, fast paced excitement in the Main Ring and a much-enhanced food hall experience.

We have 3 lots of family tickets to give away (Each family ticket allows entry for 2 x adults & 4 x children).

There's lots to discover at Aerospace Bristol, starting from the earliest days of powered flight, through to today’s cutting-edge aerospace technology.

There are aeroplanes, helicopters, missiles, satellites, engines and more to see and lots of interactive exhibits for all ages. Relax with a coffee whilst the kids run around the aeroplane climbing frame and helicopter-shaped springers in the new outdoor play and seating area. It’s ideal for budding pilots to enjoy. Ticket is for a family of 4 (2 adults and 2 children (aged 4+)).

Win 4 tickets to see Billionaire Boy at the Bristol Hippodrome From the West End producers of Gangsta Granny and Horrible Histories comes this amazing production of David Walliams' best-selling story!

Joe Spud is twelve years old and the richest boy in the country! But what Joe doesn't have is a friend. So he decides to leave his posh school and start at the local comp. But things don't go as planned for Joe and life becomes a rollercoaster as he tries to find what money can't buy!

Showing is for Wednesday 8th June at 7pm.

(Full terms and conditions on the website).

TO ENTER VISIT www.familymatters-uk.co.uk/competitions, click on the Competitions button and complete the form.

It couldn’t be easier! Closing date for entries: 9th May 2022

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STRONGER, SAFER SWIMMERS START EARLY. Your local Better leisure centre gives your child the swimming confidence and safety skills needed for lifelong fun in, on and around the water.

Join the UKs leading Swim School at better.org.uk/lessons Better is a registered trademark and trading name of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise and registered society under the Co-operative & Community Benefit & Societies Act 2014 registration no.

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Get ready for Father's Day This year, Father’s Day falls on 19th June, which gives you some time to plan how to make the father figures in your life feel special.

Here are a couple of ideas to help inspire you and give your dad a great day. These suggestions are also great for anyone one a budget — do you have any other suggestions?

Let us know on Facebook or Twitter.

HAVE AN INDOOR PICNIC Even though the weather is usually nice in June, not everyone has access to an outside space. You can rearrange some furniture, make some blanket forts and enjoy some goodies and snacks together, perhaps while even telling each other stories.

BREAKFAST IN BED Dads love breakfast in bed just as much as mums do! So, this Father’s Day, why not get up early and whip up a breakfast to serve him in bed?

Just make sure to get an adult to help you if you can!

GO ON A BIKE RIDE June is a great time to get out and enjoy the great outdoors, so why not get on a bike ride together? We have some lovely cycle routes around this area, so you can have a real adventure.

HAVE A BBQ Dads love to BBQ stuff, so if you have an outdoor space, why not let him enjoy grilling some food al fresco? Even if you don’t have a BBQ, you can buy disposable BBQs in the summer to use.

MAKE A TIME CAPSULE TOGETHER Work together to create something you want to remember in years to come and then bury or hide it. Make a pact that you will leave it alone and not look at it until the following year.

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Allergy Awareness Week 26th-30th April 2022

Allergy Awareness Week takes place every year and is a way of raising awareness of allergies and the difficulties that those who suffer from them face in day to day life.

In this issue, we’ve talked about Easter and the benefits of owning pets and both animals and food, particularly those eaten at Easter, make up some of the most common allergies, so here are a couple of ways you can learn more about allergies and how to make life easier for those who are suffering.

THE MOST COMMON SYMPTOMS OF AN ALLERGIC REACTION INCLUDE: Sneezing Coughing A runny or blocked nose A red, itchy rash Worsening of eczema or asthma symptoms Red, itchy and watery eyes

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DID YOU KNOW: • Allergies are thought to affect more than 1 in every 4 people in the UK. • Allergies are more common in children.

• Allergies can be developed at any age, even in adulthood.

• Allergies range from food, pollen and even some medicines.

Though there might be more severe reactions including anaphylaxis – so allergies should always be taken seriously. Anaphylaxis is severe and potentially life threatening, so look out for the following symptoms: • Feeling lightheaded or faint • Difficulties breathing • Wheezing • Fast heartbeat • Clammy skin • Feelings of confusion • Collapsing • Losing consciousness • Itchy hives • Swelling • Sickness

Here are the most common allergens that can cause reactions ranging from mild to full anaphylaxis: FOOD Nuts, milk, fish, shellfish and some fruits are the ones known to cause the most reactions. You can combat this by making sure that you correctly label any cakes or treats that you make and by being aware of what ingredients you use when feeding friends or relatives. These days, with raised awareness, there are plenty of free from options at supermarkets and other stores, so make sure to stock up on dairy free or nut free items when hosting any parties just in case. You can also easily find gluten free options too.

MEDICINES The most common reactions come from asprin and antibiotics, so don’t administer medication to anyone without checking first.

INSECT STINGS Wasps and bees in particular, so make sure to be aware and prepared just in case.

Many mild symptoms can be made easier by using over the counter antihistamines, but you can help support those that have allergies by reducing the number of triggers in their vicinity, such as not having flowers in the house or keeping a nut free kitchen. If you have pets and your guests have allergies, make sure to clean the rooms that they will be in before they arrive and keep the pets away from them.

You can also keep the windows open to stop dander and fur from settling.

Those who have severe allergies often carry an epi-pen around with them, so make sure you know where they keep it in case of emergencies. Don’t administer their pen unless you know how to do so correctly. Phone 999 immediately and if you can, remove any triggers that you can see, for instance, a stinger that might be stuck in their skin or any nuts that might be nearby.

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LATEST SCHOOL NEWS

EVENTS

DIARY DATES

YOUR SUCCESSES

News and Reviews POET-TREE At Evercreech Church of England Primary School, pupils from Mulberry Class have written and published tree poems. They also painted beautiful trees. With these, they made a POET-TREE trail around Evercreech village, hanging them on trees and bushes.

This was something that was enjoyed by the local community.

Children from Holly Class at Evercreech Church of England Primary School celebrated Chinese New Year – Year of the Tiger. They look fantastic. They all really enjoyed this learning experience.

WILD ABOUT BOOKS On 3rd March, Wesbury Leigh Church of England Primary School went wild about books for World Book Day by dressing as their favourite characters and engaging in a range of fun games and reading activities.

Mrs Grimsey, Headteacher, explains: “Although we know that dressing up in itself doesn’t directly improve reading, it certainly motivates and inspires staff and children to have fun with books and raises the profile and importance of reading. Our children and staff love it and it does encourage lots of exciting talk about book characters. We saw a wide range of characters in school, including Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz to Where's Wally and Harry Potter. Some of the costumes were really inventive and colourful, so a big well done to everyone at home for your support with this!”

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Independent Day School for children aged 1-11

ANGLO SAXON AFTERNOONS AT BISHOP SUTTON PRIMARY SCHOOL In February, Swan Class at Bishop Sutton Primary School showed what they had been learning after each researching an aspect of Anglo Saxon life and created something to show during a short presentation. Everyone learned lots about how the Anglo Saxons lived, looked at model houses, boats, shields, swords, axes, jewellery, costumes and food, including oatcakes and shortbread.

Enrol now for September 2022!

Find out more at stedwards.co.uk St Edward’s Prep School 252 London Road, Charlton Kings Cheltenham GL52 6NR E: prepadmissions@stedwards.co.uk T: 01242 388550

MATHS FOR A GOOD CAUSE AT ST JOHN’S Pupils at St John’s Primary School enjoyed a day of maths activities as part of the NSPCC’s Speak Out Stay Safe programme. The charity’s annual Number Day is a fun day packed with activities, and participation in games, quizzes and interactive games.

Children came to school wearing number-themed clothes and headteacher, Mrs West-Gail, said: I have been so impressed with the creative efforts of the children and their support for this fantastic charity which focuses on keeping children safe.”

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A YEAR OF BEING GREEN. WESTBURY LEIGH PRIMARY SCHOOL ARE CELEBRATING BEING A GREEN ECO SCHOOL The children at Westbury Leigh Primary have been really inspired and have embraced a variety of projects this year to achieve the status of being an Eco School. Being awarded the Eco-Schools Green Flag has inspired the children further! Mrs Warren, Eco Lead, said: “As a school, we celebrated our award by ‘Going Green’ for the day. Children wore green and joined in with a variety of activities experiencing and enjoying the wonder of nature around them in our fabulous grounds.”

Mrs Grimsey, Head Teacher, explained: “Our school is very proud of its GREEN Eco school status and the event aimed at raising money for the schools various identified Eco school projects. Even our Christmas tree decorations were made using re and up cycled materials and nothing will go to waste even the tree is recycled and used for fodder for our school goats who live on Shearwater Farm.”

Later in the year, the children embraced Recycling week starting with an assembly on ‘Waste is not rubbish’. Children discussed recycling around their homes and the processes around that help change scraps to spuds and from plastic bottles to football shirts.

Children put on their walking shoes to raise a gargantuan £1,666 for further school Eco projects by participating in a Green Walkathon. All children joined in with various events like roaring like a lion and completing other physical activities from spinning to star jumps. The session was enjoyed by all and proved very popular with children of all ages from EYFS to Year 6.

Pupils said: “I just didn’t want to stop!” – Kyle “All the money goes on our exciting learning outside” – Lola “It was so much fun - can we do it again?” – James

WORLD BOOK DAY AT BISHOP SUTTON PRIMARY SCHOOL There was a wonderful array of costumes at Bishop Sutton Primary School this World Book Day and even more amazingly, everyone who took part raised £100!

The money will be going towards buying new fiction books for the school.

Well done everyone!

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WORLD BOOK DAY AT ST JOHN’S PRIMARY SCHOOL Pupils and staff have once again celebrated World Book Day in style!

Having dressed up as their favourite characters, children spent the day exploring their favourite books, meeting their reading buddies from other year groups and being treated to an assembly by the staff from Midsomer Norton Library.

PARALYMPIAN VISITS ST JOHN’S 30 |

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Paralympic athlete, Katrina Hart visited St John’s Primary School recently resulting in a sponsored fitness session.

After teaching the children some new exercise routines, Goldmedallist Katrina told pupils in assembly that despite being born with Cerebal Palsy, she was encouraged to pursue her passion for sports. Everyone at the school felt very inspired and would like to thank Katrina for her visit.

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NEW HANDCRAFTED BENCHES FOR KILMERSDON PRIMARY

WELLOW PUPILS USE FORENSICS TO SOLVE MYSTERY

The pupils at Kilmersdon Primary School are very happy with their two new ‘buddy benches’ which were made by the Midsomer Norton Men’s Shed, which is part of the Midsomer Norton Community Trust.

Pupils from St Julian’s School in Wellow recently visited Downside School to take part in a forensic science investigation as part of a mystery to discover who had stolen the infamous Downside Trophy.

The benches are designed to help with pupil’s emotional well-being and are part of a project to assist primary schools in the local area. Speaking to reporters about the new benches, the school said: “These benches will help our children enjoy their playground experience and any child who feels lonely or bullied at any time can sit on a bench.

One of our playground helpers or a member of staff will come along and help the child who needs friendship and support.”

By looking at encrypted codes, a Ceaser cipher and by analysing physical evidence like fingerprints and hair, the Year 5 and 6 pupils successfully solved the mystery and were rewarded with goodie bags from the school.

The school are very thankful to the Men’s Shed for their help in creating the benches.

Ruth Noall, St Julian’s Headteacher, said: “All the children were excellent role models and had so much fun. We are delighted to have maintained our link with Downside School throughout the pandemic and look forward to additional visits to their grounds throughout 2022. The partnership between both schools has been very positive for both sides.”

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EVERCREECH CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL Evercreech Church of England Primary School had a wonderful start to the term with some of their World Book Day events taking place on the very first day back. On Monday, the children had the opportunity to dress up for a Vocabulary Dress Up Day and Parade.

The theme was to come dressed as a word. These are just some of the wonderful creations.

The school also welcomed back Willow the Therapy Dog. Willow was very pleased to be able to read with the children on World Book Day, and she saw some wonderful costumes.

VALLIS FIRST SCHOOL CATCH UP The children and staff at Vallis First School in Frome have had a very busy few months. Before Christmas, they put together their traditional nativities and Christmas performances and these were all videoed so families could enjoy them in the comfort of their own homes. Although COVID numbers peaked just after Christmas, numbers are now very low and the school has started to reintroduce assemblies and welcoming visitors back.

World Book Day proved to be very popular with all the staff and children dressing up as their favourite characters. There were some amazing home-made creations and during the day, the children enjoyed a range of exciting book activities.

Music has always been an important aspect of life at Vallis and this year it has been lovely to see some of the children now learning guitars along with the other instruments already on offer. The children have also participated in the Frome Kindness Week and this year, it was linked with their contribution to the Frome Window Wonderland event - hopefully you will have had the opportunity to see their creative design and all the other lovely ones around the town.

Finally, the children have also been involved in a couple of new school councils this year. The Eco council is working on making the school even more eco-friendly than they already are and also on a range of initiatives linked with climate change; the Lunchtime Council is looking at the experience for the children at lunchtime and how this can be developed. They have already come up with some great ideas which are currently being planned.

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WORLD-RENOWNED AUTHOR AND THEOLOGIAN VISITS SHOSCOMBE CHURCH SCHOOL One of the country’s most well-known authors has visited Shoscombe Church School.

Martin Palmer is the Founding President and Chief Executive of FaithInvest, an international not-for-profit association of religious groups and faith-based institutional investors, which empowers faith groups to invest in line with their values.

FaithInvest grew out of the former Association of Religions and Conservation, which Martin led on behalf of its founder – the late HRH Prince Philip.

Headteacher, Ruth Noall, said: “We were absolutely thrilled to have Martin visit us in school last week. Our Year 5 and 6 class groups are learning about AngloSaxon beliefs and practices.

Martin’s expertise in this field is second-to-none and the stories he shared with the children were eye-opening and enthralling! Thank you, Martin, for giving up your valuable time to visit our school.”

Martin is an international specialist on all major faiths and religious traditions and cultures. He is the author and editor

of more than 20 books on religious and environmental topics. He has translated many ancient Chinese texts, is a regular contributor to the BBC, and is a lay preacher in the Church of England. He has been working with the faiths on their investment programmes since 2001.

For more information about Shoscombe Church School visit their website www.shoscombeprimary.co.uk and follow them on Facebook at @shoscombechurchschool

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THE CHINESE NEW YEAR OF THE TIGER MADE A LOCAL PRIMARY SCHOOL ROAR! Ashcott Primary School, in Ashcott, near Bridgwater, enjoyed a fun-packed week of activities to mark the Chinese New Year. From Reception class to Year 6, all the pupils celebrated the Year of the Tiger on Tuesday 1st February and throughout the week.

The youngest children in the school have been making Chinese lanterns, painting blossom trees, copying Chinese numbers and making pagodas from wooden blocks of all shapes and colours.

Other classes have made Chinese drums, fact-files and colouring Chinese-style masks.

everyone tried so hard and produced such amazing work,” he said. “I liked the Chinese writing activities, the dragon masks, the amazing lanterns and the creative writing based on Fu Hao.”

By Roving Reporter Lucas, aged 9

The subject of dragons was the focus for the Woodpecker class who made small clay dragon eyes, complete with stunning colourful pupils. These Year 3 and 4 pupils created intricate Chinese symbols for courage, loyalty, love and sincerity.

Aria, of Year 4, said: “I liked making my dragon’s eye. I liked that there was no wrong way and you could do what you wanted with the design. I drew it first but changed it in the making of the clay model.”

Connie, of Year 4, completed Chinese writing. “It was quite hard making it look clear,” she said.

Adam, also Year 4, was one of the very many who dressed in red on Friday, when the children were treated to a Chinese meal for lunch – complete with chopsticks! “We are wearing red as it’s a lucky colour in China,” he said.

ROMAN CHARIOTS As part of their Roman topic, children from Sycamore Class at Evercreech CofE Primary School have been making Roman chariots. They measured the wood carefully before sawing it to the correct size and sticking it together to make a frame. They then finished off the base, added axle and wheels and attached a horse to finish it off.

Juliette added: “It’s been a fun week. I enjoyed making Chinse writing. I used two media: charcoal and paint to make all the symbols.”

Oriel, aged four, made a pagoda from wooden blocks, complete with a ramp for her bicycle to be able to get inside.

Owl class focussed their creative writing on a Shang Dynasty military leader/priestess Fu Hao and have done some inspiring writing about the discovery of her tomb.

Headteacher Richard Briar said it had been a great week throughout the school. “I can’t choose a favourite activity because

WOW

WOW

Sophia, aged 6, made her debut performance at Bristol Hippodrome in the musical Waitress!

Well done!

Leighton, aged 6, received a Gold medal with des Tkd. Good work!

WHAT AN ACHIEVEMENT

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WHAT AN ACHIEVEMENT