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From pregnancy to 11 years
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GOOD VALUE DAYS OUT
Best Kent Castles
PARTY TIPS FOR KIDS
EASTER HOLIDAY FUN
Meet the Music Makers
Win
SPRING GOODIES
Local News What’s On Maternity Parenting School Days ●
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Kent Mama 148x210 24/02/2010 14:57 Page 1
KING’S SCHOOL ROCHESTER Co-educational for ages 3-18 Boarding from age 11 Financial assistance available
Open Morning Saturday 20th March 2010
GIVE YOUR CHILD A FLYING START… KENT’S MOST MODERN, PURPOSE-BUILT, NURSERY OPENING IN SEPTEMBER 2010 Telephone 01634 888555 www.kings-school-rochester.co.uk enquiries@kings-school-rochester.co.uk King’s School operates minibus services from Maidstone, West Malling and Rainham
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Welcome to the Spring issue . . . after a wet winter, we’re all looking forward to the warmer days and the chance to get out and about. From historic castles to hunting for chocolate eggs, we’ve got plenty of ideas to keep you busy this Spring without breaking the bank...
Meet the team editor: lara Slavin 01634 814364 Sub-editor: katharine lang 01634 306321 designer: jackie pugh 01634 849949 printing: headley brothers Ashford, Kent
Get in touch
For information, advertising or editorial contact 01634 814364 info@kentmama.co.uk www.kentmama.co.uk
Kent Mama Magazine group
35,000 copies given to parents-to-be and families in medway, maidstone and Sittingbourne. Green mama cic, publisher of Kent mama, is an independent not-for-profit organisation. While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of details in this publication, we cannot accept responsibility for such. Views expressed by contributors and advertisers do not necessarily refl ect those of the editors and publishers. Articles and advertisements created by us are copyright of green mama cic and may not be reproduced without prior consent.
lara Slavin
katharine lang
Mum to Tia, 9, Joe, 11 and Barnaby, 5. Lara set up the magazine four years ago and now deals with advertising, articles, distribution and the running of the business. likes: Sunny days on Camber Sands, chocolate truffles and camping. dislikes: Children squabbling and grumpy husbands.
Mum to Imogen, 12, Philippa, 9, and Millie, 7. Katharine moved to Kent in 2006. Following a career in publishing, she retrained as a secondary school teacher and continues to sub-edit Kent mama. likes: Cooking, gardening and our pet chickens. dislikes: Getting up early.
Contents
jackie pugh Mum to Caitlin, 11, and Abbie, 7. Originally from Whitstable, Jackie worked in London for IPC Media as a designer. She now designs Kent mama from her Rochester home. likes: My girls (most of the time!), horse riding and Redbush tea. dislikes: Cleaning out the cat tray!
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castle capers
19 maternity news
6
be your own boss
20 naturally healthy
8
what's on
12 music makers
pregnancy
22 maidstone toddler talk
14 good health
27 party time
16 maidstone news
28 easter giveaways to advertise call 01634 814364
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Days out
Castle capers Step back in time for some hands-on history and a great family day out at our pick of the best local castles. Hever Castle Venture beyond Tunbridge Wells on the road to Edenbridge and you’ll come across Hever Castle, childhood home of Anne Boleyn. As you’d imagine, the Tudor theme features heavily and they have regular jousting weekends (from 23rd July–28th August) and Henry VIII themed events (29th–31st May). This 13th-century castle is double moated, with stunning formal gardens, open spaces and a 38-acre lake. Star attraction for kids is the water maze, which squirts them when they take a wrong turn. So take a raincoat and spare clothes. There are plenty of picnic spots, a restaurant and a medieval-themed playground. Family of four ticket for castle and gardens is £33. 4
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Dover Castle Its position on the white cliffs, overlooking the Channel, means Dover Castle has been a prime location throughout history. As well as the famous newly refurbished tower with its holographic storytellers and medieval rooms, you’ll find Roman battlements, an Anglo-Saxon church and secret wartime tunnels. Originally built to counter the invasion threat from Napoleonic France, the underground tunnels' finest hour came in WW2, when it housed the operation that rescued 338,000 troops from Dunkirk. Touring the tunnels gives a real sense of what life was like for the 700 personnel stationed there. Great views, plenty of open spaces and nooks and crannies to explore makes Dover Castle a powerful example of British history through the ages. Family ticket £34.80.
Pics: Leeds Castle Foundation
Leeds Castle Is a fascinating mix of Tudor history - it was frequently visited by Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon - and immaculate room sets from more recent times under private ownership by the wealthy Lady Baillie. A beautiful walk from the entrance to the castle (or you can cheat and take the land bus) takes you through part of the 500-acre park. Kids of all ages will enjoy the maze with a hidden shell grotto, aviary, craft room and large adventure playgrounds, ensuring everyone goes home exhausted and happy! Pay once and you get unlimited free visits for a whole year, adults £16.50 and children (4-15 years) £9.50. Upcoming events include Spring into Easter 2nd–5th April and Jousting 1st–6th June.
Bodiam Castle If you like your castles simple and hands-on, then Bodiam, in East Sussex, is for you. It may not have the mazes and adventure playgrounds of some of the larger attractions, but there are plenty of events to keep you occupied and on a sunny day you can relax with a picnic while the kids explore the battlements and the remains of the interior. The year’s Easter Egg hunt is supported by Cadbury’s and runs from 2nd April. And over the Easter weekend (2nd–5th April) The Happening History team will bring the past to life with shows depicting ‘Medieval surgery and medicine’ and ‘Medieval crime and punishment’. Family ticket £17. Free entry for National Trust members. to advertise call 01634 814364 5
Business
Be your own boss
A local mum’s guide to party planning
These days it seems it’s not enough to just be a mum – now you have to be a mumpreneur too. For many parents working for yourself can be the ideal solution to the work/life balance but it can be hard work, with no guarantees your business will succeed. One option is to work as a self employed consultant for one of the many party play businesses that operate in the UK. So we spoke to local mum, Elizabeth Moody, who has a team of consultants in Maidstone and Kent, to ask for her tips on working as a party plan agent.
Elizabeth Moody Mum-of-two Elizabeth Moody (07770 888720) says: “I wanted something that was my own, but didn’t want to have to start from scratch. So I looked into becoming a party planner. I needed a business that could fit in with my family and would 6
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be easy to get started”. It transpired that Elizabeth was very good at it. “Last year I moved to a new company, Jamie at Home, and I love it. People contact me to host a party in their home and I go along, have fun meeting new people and sell some great products at the same time. Like Jamie, the business is very fresh and dynamic. I work at my own pace and fit it in around my commitments. I now have a team of consultants covering the whole of Kent, Surrey and the South Coast. A lot are mums who want a few hours outside the home to be themselves again, to have fun and earn some money along the way”.
For business ideas and tips for working mums visit: www.mumandworking.co.uk www.workingmums.co.uk www.mumsclub.co.uk
Elizabeth’s tips for anyone considering working for a company as a party plan agent are: n Make sure you have the support of your partner. If you are going to be out to work in the evenings and asking them to look after the children they need to understand the benefits. Not only financially but also in building your confidence to return to work. n Ask about the team structures and values of the company. The best companies are those that provide support and encouragement without putting pressure on you to reach targets. And that give you extra support in those first few months. n Find out what is involved in hosting a party – everyone feels a little nervous getting up at a party for the first time so make sure what is expected of you is something that you feel comfortable doing. n Research how much time will be involved in each party – some companies need you to make two or three visits to a party host for initial meetings, the party and deliveries. So consider the cost and time involved to see if it is financially viable and practical. n If you’re not sure if a company is right for you, consider having a party yourself so you can see what the consultant is like and how they work. If you still feel it is something you would enjoy you can take it to the next stage.
Renaissance Crafts
Paint Your Own Pottery
● Late night opening for adults ● Parties ● Large room for groups - Scouts, Guides, WI etc ● Baby footprints ● Make unique gifts
Pots of fun for everyone!
Open Monday to Friday 10am-5.30pm. Late night Thursdays. Saturday 10am-5pm. (Other times by arrangement)
16 Starnes Court, Union Street, Maidstone. 01622 750467 www.renaissancecrafts.co.uk
to advertise call 01634 814364 7
Listings
What’s on this
Easter
Sunny dayS and new beginningS. there’S lotS to do thiS eaSter holidayS to keep all your little chickS happy! friday 2nd april easter egg hunt at maidstone museum 10.30am–4.30pm Event runs every day from Friday 2nd until Monday 5th April. Children can solve the clues hidden round the museum to win a prize. £1 per child. No booking necessary.
friday 2nd april easter bunny hunt, riverside country park, rainham Throughout the day from 11am–3pm (last entry 2.30pm). £1 per child. Booking essential 01634 337432.
friday 2nd april easter crafts, Shorne woods country park, near gravesend Make a gift for Easter from natural materials. £5 per child. 10am–12noon. Booking essential call 08458 247600 8
Saturday 3rd april high tech easter egg hunt, cobtree manor, maidstone Use satellites to hunt for treasure. 1–3pm. Call 01622 683695 to book. Event is free but donations are welcome.
Saturday 3rd april easter bunny hunt, Shorne woods country park, near gravesend 10am–2pm. £4 per child. To book call 08458 247600
Sunday 4th april medway festival of Steam and transport, the historic dockyard chatham 2-day event (4th and 5th). Vintage cars, motorbikes, military vehicles, steam traction engines and more. Usual admission prices apply.
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Sunday 4th april easter egg trail at wildwood, nr herne bay Free trail and win a mini-egg. Craft sessions Monday– Friday both weeks from 2 to 3pm £2 per child. Book in advance. Usual admission prices also apply.
monday 5th april easter bunny hunt, capstone farm country park, gillingham Throughout the day from 11am to 3pm (last entry 2.30pm). £1 per child. Booking essential 01634 338191.
tuesday 6th april circus Skills workshop, hazlitt arts centre,maidstone Suitable for children aged 8–12. £12 per child. 10am–3.30pm. Booking essential call 01622 602828.
wednesday 7th april bedgebury easter event, bedgebury national pinetum Drop-in Easter event in the education room 11am–1pm. Hunt the Easter bunny and make a chick card to take home. No need to book, children must be accompanied by an adult. £3 per child.
wednesday 7th april make easter nests at maidstone museum 10.30am–12.30pm and 1.30–3.30pm drop-in event. £2 per child. Also Thursday 8th – make easter hats, Friday 9th – make animal masks, Monday 12th – make pom-pom animals, Thursday
15th – creepy crawly mobiles, Friday 16th – make spring flowers.
wednesday 7th april
learn Street dance workshop, hazlitt arts centre,maidstone Suitable for children aged 7–13. £12 per child. 10am–3.30pm. Booking essential call 01622 602828.
thursday 8th april pond dipping at Shorne woods country park 11am–12noon and 1–2pm, £3.50. Ages 5-13 years. To book call 08458 247600.
thursday 8th april Seashore Safari, reculver country park, nr herne bay Hunt for marine creatures with Kent Wildlife Trust and find out how they have adapted to their environment. Meet at Reculver Visitor Centre at 2pm. Wellies required.
12. £12.50 per child. Booking required, call 08458 247600.
friday 9th april family wildlife walk, bredhurst village 10am for approx 2 hours. Explore the village and woodlands looking for spring wildlife. To book call 01622 683695.
Saturday 10th april modern pentathalon world cup, medway park, gillingham The Modern Pentathlon World Cup runs from 8th –11th April at Medway's new £11m centre of sport. Men’s finals on Saturday 10th and womens’ finals on Sunday 11th April. Event comprises of five
sporting activities - shooting, fencing, swimming, horse riding and running. Full day tickets are £8 for adults and £5 for children. For details and to book tickets visit www. whatsonmedway. co.uk
Saturday 10th april Spring in mote park, maidstone Explore the mix of park, woodland and wetlands with Kent Wildlife Trust. Meet at 9am at the car park in Mote Park.
Usual admission prices apply.
Saturday 10th april kent music in medway festival, central theatre, chatham Saturday 7:30pm Kent County Youth Orchestra perform the best in classical music. Sunday 11th April at 7.30pm, the Kent Youth Wind Orchestra and Youth Choir perform a medley of Broadway showstoppers. www. thecentraltheatre. co.uk
wednesday 14th april
Saturday 10th april peppa pig at kent life, maidstone Pig football, pig racing and the chance to meet Peppa Pig as well as Easter crafts, newborn lambs and chicks.
farmyard animal petting at maidstone museum Drop in to visit animals from Nepicar Farm including rabbits, sheep, lambs, chickens and pigs. 11am–3pm.
thursday 8th april junior rangers, manor park country park, west malling Become a junior ranger for the day – making dens, looking for wildlife and playing games. Suitable for ages 8– to advertise call 01634 814364 9
Buggy Workouts in Mote Park, Maidstone Mondays 11:30am - 12:30pm Tuesdays 1:30pm - 2:30pm Call Emma on 07811 209452
Pushy Mothers
Pushy Mothers instructor training is accredited by The Royal College of Midwives
Online shop for educational wooden toys, puppets, fancy dress, baby accessories & more
puppetmanofkent.co.uk royal Star, maidStone 1st Saturday of the month leedS caStle 21st & 22nd may hempStead valley last Sunday of the month See website for further events
Book a Puppet workshop for your school or nursery For details ring Simon on 01622 752678
Educational advicE, assEssmEnts & tuition w w w. t o t s n t o y s . c o . u k FILMSTEPS MAIDSTONE YEAR ROUND FILMMAKING ACTIVITIES FOR 7-16 YEAR OLDS
Term time film making fun every Saturday morning
Full 11+ preparation. 98% success rate over many years. Over 300 students helped towards grammar school each year. Very small group classes Classes for Yr 3 - Yr 11 Evenings & Weekends All public exams: SATs, 11+(Kent & Medway), GCSE, Common Entrance and Scholarships Holiday & revision programmes Handwriting courses One to one (subject to availability)
5 DAY SUMMER FILM SCHOOL + STUNT WORKSHOP
Family
16th-20th August 2010 Work with professional filmmakers and make a mini feature film in a week. See your film on the big screen at the Maidstone Odeon in the autumn! “Amazing experience, great fun! I wanted the week to go on forever!” Forilmsteps more information .com w w w.f
Tel:
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visit our www.filmsteps.com 0 8website; 4 4 32 4 0966 0844 324 0966 Email:lmsteps.com maidstone@filmsteps.com maidstone@fi
www.kentmama.co.uk
est 1987
Business
73a Maidstone Road, Rochester Please contact Mrs Clemens
01634 814420
Francis Iles of Rochester The Art & Craft
EXPO Good Friday 2nd April and Saturday 3rd April *11am
- 5pm at the Corn Exchange, Rochester. Art and Craft to See and Do
HAND
S ON!
try a and new cr aft tak the r e home esul ts.
“Spend the day learning, watching and creating with 30 expert demonstrators and tutors from the Art & Craft world. There’s something for all ages and abilities - come and unlock your creative potential! For more information see our website www.artycat.com”
mama
Kent
Summer issue out 21st June 35,000 copies Separate maidstone and medway editions Sittingbourne edition coming soon deadline for advertising and articles 28th may
for information or to download our latest ad pack visit www.kentmama.co.uk
ns & Charles Eva colour with crylics, er A at g, W in , tt le Kids’ Tab sy Art, Kni ta an ing, F , nt ai an P nim ting, Silk Barry Her ga Art, Fel sonal er an P M , om ry fr Embroide Techniques *. g & Paper moree* Card Makin and many ft ra C o D s, on si Impres ay vary. subjects m *Topics &
Tickets £2 in advance, £3 on the door. Group rate buy 3 tickets get 1 FREE (Enter Promo Code 107038 for Friday and 107039 for Saturday) Buy online at: www.whatsonmedway.co.uk or instore at: Art & Craft Works, 104 High St. Rochester. Tel: 01634 843881 * Early Bird deal: Buy your tickets in advance and admission is from 10am!
Supported by Medway Council
email: info@kentmama.co.uk telephone: 01634 814364
Education
Music Ma kers
with its head quarters in Maidstone, Kent music helps thousands of school children throughout the county discover the joys of music. Many parents have heard of Kent Music through the work they do within schools in Kent. But did you know that it is a registered charity dating back to 1948 and their first president was Yehudi Menuhin? Their involvement in music in Kent spans from pre-schoolers to grandparents, so we spoke to Communications Manager Karen Adams to find out more.
Tell us about the history of Kent Music? Kent Music was originally set up, some sixty years ago, to provide rural communities in Kent with access to musicmaking and instrument tuition. Over the years we have become more orientated towards schools and urban locations, though we have never lost our roots
and still maintain a strong presence throughout Kent. We now provide one of the largest music education services in Europe to schools and the wider community.
What does Kent Music do? Kent Music deliver instrumental and vocal teaching to more than 15,000 pupils, mostly of school age (5-19) but also several hundred pre-school children through our Zing-Zone programme, as well as adult learners. We teach in schools in Kent and Medway and run out-of-
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school music centres in 14 main towns and cities in Kent. We provide a range of instrument hire and tuition services including one-to-one music lessons, small groups, large groups and schools. Kent Music organise music groups, choirs, county groups, concerts and hold an annual summer school programme.
Is Kent Music only for serious musicians? Not at all. We have oneto-one lessons and group workshops for all levels from beginner to gifted and
Learning music in a fun but structured way helps babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers listen and concentrate and is the first step to enjoying music as they grow.
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talented pupils. Many of our workshops held within schools are for children and young people who have little or no experience of playing an instrument. Our Sound Factory workshops are a particular favourite. Aimed mainly at secondary school pupils, children are split up into groups and over the course of the workshop each group learns a different instrument from scratch. At the end of the session they come together to play a piece of music. And it’s amazing how good they sound. At the other end of the scale, for those students with a natural ability in music, we have the Kent Music Academy. This is a Saturday centre for musically gifted children aged 10-18 and takes place in Maidstone. Offering specialised tuition and performance opportunities to dedicated and talented musicians.
Tell us about Zing Zone? Zing Zone is an exciting new music programme for preschool and Key Stage One children that aims to build a life long love of music. Classes are structured to stimulate children’s imagination and creativity using songs, rhymes, movement and activities.
Learning music in a fun but structured way helps babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers listen and concentrate and is the first step to enjoying music as they grow. To find out more about Kent Music in your area visit www. kent-music.com or contact 01622 691212.
to advertise call 01634 814364
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Good health
by laura church
swings and poor concentration in children.” Good nutrition is particularly important as children approach their teens. With more independence over what they eat, encouraging healthy eating will build good habits for the future and life at home will be a lot calmer!
mood food
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● Milk contains oestrogen, progesterone and growth hormones, so cut down or avoid diary if you want to balance hormone levels. Rice milk or soya milks and soya yoghurts are great alternatives. ● Avoid junk foods. These are hard to digest so your body doesn’t register that it has been fed making you feel bloated and hungry again.
● Try to have your main meal for the day at lunchtime. Omelettes, stir frys or home-made kebabs are a good way to use up healthy eating at vegetables and home Good chicken or fish. ● Eat dinner as a Proteins Or cook big family without chicken and turkey batches of distractions eggs healthy stews such as TV. By White fish, salmon and or curries and concentrating mackerel freeze for on what you tuna and sardines another day’s are eating you nuts and seeds meal. are less likely pulses and lentils to overeat and ● Never add salt you’ll experience to your cooking. some quality family time There is enough hidden salt together. in food without adding more.
Eating the right food isn’t just about being healthy, it’s about being happy too. “What you eat can have a huge effect on your mood,” says top nutrition expert Laura Church. “I encourage adults and children to keep a food mood diary. It takes 20 minutes for your food to ● Drink plenty of water. take effect and you can Fizzy drinks, whether diet experience some dramatic or regular, strip the body of reactions to what calcium and have no Good you eat. Food nutritional value. Carbohydrates can alter the Water is essential delicate to help our porridge balance of bodies potatoes with skin on hormones function dried apricots within your properly. wholemeal bread system oatcakes leading to ● Vegetables wholegrain rice problems are a humus with PMT in wonderful fresh fruit and women, raised source of fibrous vegetables oestrogen in carbohydrates men and mood and release their 14
sugars slowly. But take care not to overcook them.
Laura Church hosts a regular TV series, Laura's Nutrition Bible for Sky’s LA Muscle TV (Sky 281). She offers nutritional advice and personalised eating plans online or in person at her private gym and consultancy rooms in Rainham. To find out how Laura Church can help your family, business or organisation eat well and get fit, contact 01634 366000, 07768 401217 or visit www. laurachurch.com
P R O A C T I V E
H E A L T H C A R E
3 Sittingbourne Road | Maidstone | Ken 01622 661883 | www.so
n Chiropractic n Sports Massage n Nutrition n Pre and Post Natal n Rehabilitation and Exercise Southcote offers a very personalised approach to healthcare, with a team of chiropractors, exercise specialists, sports masseurs, and nutritional therapists working alongside and in conjunction with each other to ensure you are able to function to your optimum and enjoy life to the full. We provide care for babies from birth, toddlers, school children, athletes of any age, mums and dads, grown-ups and the elderly. Think Southcote when you think health! The ethos of the clinic and adjoining exercise centre is to be a friendly, caring environment providing the setting for excellence and expertise with wellestablished but proactive branches of healthcare.
Fun, Food, Friends and Jamie!
Jamie at Home is a new party plan business from Jamie Oliver that is taking the country by storm. It’s a fun way to earn cash, have a party with friends and discover gorgeous, designer-led Jme kitchen and dinnerwear. Available exclusively through Jamie at Home parties. If you are interested in hosting a party or want to share in Jamie Oliver’s success and be part of the team, contact:
because your health is our concern Southcote Chiropractic Clinic 3 Sittingbourne Road Maidstone ME14 5ES 01622 661883
Le-Crease Ironing & House Cleaning Service Covering Medway and Maidstone Spic and span house clean, no job too big or small - own materials supplied Discount on bulk ironing - all professionally hanged and sleeved Call for a quotation today!
01634 317315 / 07910 098288 www.le-creaseironingservice.co.uk
6INTAGEĂ STYLEĂ CARDSĂ ANDĂ GIFTS
Elizabeth Moody 07770 888720 elizabeth.m@talktalk.net
Jamie at home
WWW MADEINPIXIELAND COM to advertise call 01634 814364
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Maidstone news arts Skills workshops at the hazlitt Want to learn circus skills or street dance? The Rewind team are running a series of workshops at the Hazlitt Arts Centre, Rose Yard, off Earl Street Maidstone. The circus skills workshop, on Tuesday April 6 will include plate spinning, juggling and unicycle riding. And is suitable for children aged 8 – 12. The street dance session, for 7 – 13 year olds, will be held on Wednesday, April 7. Offering the chance to learn the latest moves and techniques such as free styling, breaking,
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waving, popping and locking. The final day is on Friday, April 9 with Portraiture in 2D and 3D. Where children can learn the techniques of light and shade drawing and clay modeling to produce a series of portraits and a half life size portrait face sculpture. Workshops take place between 10am –3.30pm and cost £12 per person, per day (£6 concessions). Booking is available online at www. hazlittartscentre. co.uk or call the Arts Development Team at Maidstone Borough Council on 01622 602828.
www.kentmama.co.uk
New Leisure Pool at Mote Park The wait for the new leisure pool at Maidstone Leisure Centre, Mote Park is nearly over. Part of a £4m refurbishment incorporating the whole centre, the new Lagoon Pool will be open from April. Improvements include a new
toddler pool, a new fl ume ride and further water features. A new café servery is being installed and the swimming changing rooms have been updated to include a larger family change area, new showers, disabled change area and
Lights, Camera, Action!
Kids aged 7–16 can find out how fi lms and TV programmes are made at fi lm making classes at Valley Park Community School, Huntsman Lane, Maidstone. Taking place every Saturday morning, from 11am to 1pm, children learn about fi lms, animation, pop videos, news reports and even have their own online TV station, Filmsteps TV.
Springtime Craft at Maidstone Museum
hotfoot fun this easter
a vanity area. The polar adventure play area and reception are also being updated. Officially launching in May the new facilities should be open in time for the Easter holidays. For further information visit www.maidstone leisure.com In August they run a summer school with professional fi lmmakers. And as a special treat this year there is a stunt workshop. The highlight is watching a short fi lm the children have produced screened at Maidstone Odeon. For more information on weekly classes or the summer school visit www.fi lmsteps.com or call 0844 3240966.
Beat the boredom this Easter at Hotfoot play schemes running at local schools in Maidstone. Children can enjoy arts and crafts, sports and guest speakers. Aimed at children aged 5 to 11 years they run daily from 10am to 2pm. Play schemes will take place between Tuesday 6th April and Friday 9th April at Eastborough Primary School and at Oaktrees Community School and cost £20 per week per child (£12 consessions). The following week, Monday 12th April
to Friday 16th April, the scheme will be running at Bower Grove School and cost £25 per child (£15 consessions). To apply for a place call the Sports, Play and Youth Development Team on 01622 602222.
There’s plenty to do at Maidstone Museum during the Easter holidays. On Wednesday 7th April you can weave paper to create your own colourful Easter nest. Make your own Easter bonnet or top hat on Thursday 8th April, create animal masks (Friday 9th April), make pom-pom animals (Monday 12th April), make butterfl y creepy crawly mobiles (Thursday 15th April) and spring flowers (Friday 16th April). Sessions cost £2 per child and run between 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30 to 3.30pm. For more information visit www.maidstone. museum.gov.uk
BREAKING NEWS... NEWS...BREAKING kent big day out 17,000 free tickets to Kent attractions are up for grabs for this year’s Big Day Out on 27th March. www. kentbigdayout.co.uk to advertise call 01634 814364
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Maternity Reexology For a happy, healthy pregna ncy Helping to ease: Sickness and nausea
Baby Massage * Baby Yoga * Pregnancy Massage Medway and Maidstone area. 1-to-1 and small groups. Contact Melanie King: 0780 3164250
XXX UJOZUPVDIFT DP VL
Pregnancy Evenings Temple Mill Children’s Centre, Cliffe Road, Strood 6pm to 8pm
Back pain and sciatica Stress and anxiety Overdue baby Blood pressure uctuations Digestive disorders
8th March, 10th May & 12th July 2010
Sleep disorders
baby massage * yoga * midwives * cloth nappies homeopathy * breastfeeding * water birthing
Postnatal problems
Free treatments, demos and info. All stages of pregnancy welcome. Pop in anytime for an informal chat and to collect information.
For more details contact Georgina on 07870 409681 or Kim on 07957 339013
and more Georgina Strickland MAR 01634 313158 / 07870 409681
Classes in Medway, Maidstone and throughout Kent. 01622 662 589 www.waterbabies.co.uk 18
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Maidstone maternity news
...EVENTS...EVENTS...
£5 osteopathy for new mums and babies
The European School of Osteopathy, on the outskirts of Maidstone, has launched a community scheme offering new mums and babies under one year a thorough osteopathic check up and ongoing
Maidstone Bumps Meals Meet other expectant parents at monthly bumps meals organised by Maidstone NCT. Email nctmums2bmeal@ aol.com and join their mailing list to be sent details of upcoming dates and venues. The meals are a chance to meet other mums-to-be in an informal and relaxed setting, to talk about pregnancy and babies and make new friends. Everyone is welcome whatever the stage of their pregnancy. The next meal takes place on 23rd March. For details email nctmums2bmeal@ aol.com or call Sam on 01622 741958.
treatments, for just £5 per session. Osteopathy can help with headaches, back, coccyx and pelvic pains in mums and poor sleeping and feeding in babies. The scheme will be running until June 2010. Call 01622 685989 quoting ‘mother and baby scheme’ to book an appointment.
expert fit
With 80% of women wearing the wrongsized bra, it’s even more important to get an expert fitting when pregnant. Lisa Skinner from Maidstone maternity wear shop Pregalicious says: “Maternity and nursing bras are one of our biggest-selling
items in the shop. Getting properly measured and trying on a range of bras to find a comfortable fit and the right style for you just can’t be done over the internet. Our staff are fully trained and we stock nursing and maternity bras in a wide range of styles. Visit their shop at Unit 6, Royal Star Arcade, Maidstone or www. pregalicious. co.uk
● naturally healthy pregnancy evening 6–8pm Southcote Clinic, Sittingbourne Road, Maidstone. Held every two months. Upcoming dates 16th April and 11th June. Contact Emma on 07811 209452. ● maidstone homebirth Support group The Pippin, 78 London Road, Maidstone, 10am–12noon. Held on the second Saturday of the month. Next meeting Saturday 10th April. Visit www.mhbsg.co.uk for details. ● medway pregnancy evening Temple Mill Children’s Centre, Strood 6–8pm Held every two months. Upcoming dates 10th May and 12th July. Contact Georgina on 07870 409681 ● east kent baby event 21st and 22nd May, Pfizer Social Club, Sandwich 10am– 4pm. Contact Sarah on 07878 668204 for tickets and details.
to advertise call 01634 814364
19
Health
Naturally Healthy Pregnancy launched in december 2009, a new bi-monthly information evening in maidStone provideS parentS-to-be with a wealth of information about a naturally healthy pregnancy. how did the naturally healthy pregnancy evenings come about? I work as an exercise specialist at Southcote Rehabilitation and Exercise Centre with a particular specialism in pre and post-natal exercise. We have a great venue here. And my work has put me in contact with many local maternity services, as well as lots of new mums eager to find out information about pregnancy and birth. So it seemed a natural step to get everyone together as a group to provide Maidstone parents-to be with a range of information to help
chiropractic
this treatment improves the alignment of the skeleton with its ligaments, muscles and nerves. in pregnancy it can be particularly helpful in alleviating pain in the back, neck, pelvis and legs as well as sciatica and headaches.
20
www.kentmama.co.uk
chiropractor and nutritional therapist as well as a wide range of local experts and businesses including baby yoga, maternity wear, birthing pools, midwives, homoeopathy, cloth nappies, maternity reexology and more.
are the evenings open to anyone?
Yes, the evenings are free of charge and we have information for couples on pre-conception through to As a mum myself I know that pregnancy and post-natal pregnancy can be a daunting care. So mums-to-be and time, so the opportunity to expectant dads can come talk to experts along at any about a stage of the wide range treatment for pregnancy of subjects in and ask babieS one evening questions in babies as young as a is a fantastic a relaxed few days old can have a resource. I run and informal chiropractic check up. as the evenings setting. well as checking everything in conjunction is in alignment following the with maternity when do birth it may help with ear reexologist infections, colic, glue ear, they take Georgina difficulty in breastfeeding place? Strickland. and irritability. We host the She has been evenings in involved in our Exercise regular pregnancy evenings Centre every other month. in the Medway area and has Held on a Friday evening, you seen first hand the benefits to can drop in anytime between local parents who are able to 6pm and 8pm. The next access the information they meeting is on 16th April and need. following that on 11th June. them through conception, pregnancy, birth and beyond.
what sort of information is available at the pregnancy evenings? We have specialists from Southcote including a
We host the evenings in our purpose-built exercise centre at the rear of Southcote. It’s a very light and open studio space making it easy to walk
pre and poSt-natal eXerciSe
focuses on strengthening the areas that will become weaker as the pregnancy progresses. and following the birth, on improving specific muscle groups. it enables women to continue to exercise in a safe way during their pregnancy and beyond.
round the various stands and talk to different people. Parking is available at the pay and display car park opposite the clinic.
what do you hope to achieve with the pregnancy evenings? Our aim is to provide expectant parents in Maidstone with the chance to talk to maternity specialists and services in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. We want the evenings to grow and develop so that mumsto-be see us as a valuable source of local information.
nutritional therapiSt
meeting your body's changing demands is important not only during pregnancy but at preconception and postnatal stages. a nutritional therapist will assess your needs and pinpoint any deficiencies to ensure you are achieving optimal health.
maternity refleXology
a relaxing treatment with many uses in pregnancy and post-natal care. including helping to ease sickness and nausea, stress and anxiety and overdue baby.
The next Naturally Healthy Pregnancy Evening takes place on Friday 16th April 6pm-8pm. Contact Emma on 07811 209452 or Georgina on 07870 409681 or visit www. exercise-excellence.com
to advertise call 01634 814364
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Maidstone toddler talk Fingerprint Jewellery Make daddy proud this Fathers’ day with unique silver jewellery that captures your baby or child’s fingerprint, handprint, footprint and even pictures or writing. Nicola Tuffin from Smallprint visits parents throughout Medway and Maidstone to produce beautiful
pieces of hand crafted jewellery. For more information call Nicola on 01634 320722 or visit her at Pregalicious, Royal Star Arcade on Saturday 1st May 10.30am-1.30pm.
in store online Nice buy not naughty wooden cake set £14.99 from www. totsntoys.co.uk
Bag a bargain at NCT Nearly New Bag a Bargain at NCT Nearly New With a bigger venue this March’s NCT nearly new sales looks set to be the best yet. A change of venue to Invicta Grammar School, Huntsman Lane (on A20) means they can accommodate more stock and larger items such as cots, high chairs and buggies. Open to any member of 22
the public not just NCT members the nearly new sale is a chance to pick up good quality, used maternity, new baby and children’s clothing, books, toys, equipment and nursery items. Sale takes place on Saturday 20th March. Doors open at 2pm, entrance £1. For details email maidstonenns@ yahoo.co.uk
www.kentmama.co.uk
Who said socks had to be dull! Skater socks £16.99 for six pairs www. thefunkyfairy.co.uk Good enough to eat, this strawberry hat is £12.99 from www. thefunkyfairy.co.uk
Fluffy bunny and six bugs £23 from www. puppetmanofkent. co.uk
Soft pull along cow with attachable flower, £14.99 from www.totsntoys. co.uk
Maidstone Market Easter eggs-travaganza Pop down to Maidstone Market on Tuesday 30th March with your pre-schooler and you could pick up some great Easter freebies. Run by Maidstone Borough Council there will be egg giveaways for children, stalls selling Easter provisions, community stalls and the Urban Blue
bus. There will also be the chance to try your hand at paint your own pottery provided by Maidstone-based Renaissance Crafts. They will be at the market providing Easter egg cup painting free of charge for the first 50 children. The market is open from 7.30am until 2pm.
what’s on for little ones ...at maidstone museum tuesday 6th april, Storytelling. 110.30–12.30pm and 1.30–3.30pm. Mr Wolf’s Pancakes – storytelling and art activities for under 5s. £2 for one adult and
up to two children. tuesday 13th april, Storytelling. 10.30–11.30am. Little Ogre’s Surprise Supper – storytelling and art activities for the under 5s. £2 for
Easter Activity at Sunshine Centre
The Sunshine Children’s Centre in Stagshaw Close off Postley Road, will be holding a fun Easter event for under 5s on Friday 26th March, 10am-12noon. There will be face painting and Easter crafts. Fancy dress optional! For more information contact the centre on 01622 752285. one adult and up to two children. 14th april, visit from nepicar farm. 11am – 3pm Meet animals from the farm including a rabbit, guinea pig, sheep, lamb, chicken, goose, duck, sheep dog and goat.
Dinky Dancers Comes to Maidstone A mix of dance, PE and action, Dinky Dancers is billed as a fun way for boys and girls aged 2-4 to get active whilst learning too. Classes already take place at Kings Hill community centre and have proved so popular class leader Lisa Jarrett has set up a new group in Central Maidstone at the JAG Dance Academy in Wheeler Street. Says Lisa: “The classes are great fun, each week we have a different theme such as amazing animals or at the circus. The parents love them too and it gives them ideas of exercise activities and songs that they can do at home with their toddlers and pre-schoolers." For a free trial session call Lisa on 01634 682181.
to advertise call 01634 814364
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Baby Signing the FUN way!!
BOOK NOW FOR APRIL CLASSES
This unique programme combines the benefits of both music and baby signing to stimulate your baby’s speech and language development. Hearing babies from as young as 7 months are using gestures to communicate BEFORE their first words.
For more information on our multi-award winning classes in Medway and Maidstone contact Lorraine on
07954 439579 lorrainemurray@singandsign.co.uk
NannyLink Ltd 15% off finders fee with this ad
Est.1996 ● Covering SE London & Kent
The professional and caring service
For Nannies & Baby sitters Call: 01634 324645
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Ju st Fo r K i d z
quality uSed and nearly new ● children’s clothing ● toys ● prams and pushchairs ● cots and nursery equipment ● from prem baby to 5
www.babysensory.com Fabulous fun baby delevopment classes. Birth to 13 months. ● Classes in Detling,Sutton Valence & Maidstone ● FREE Trial Session Sensory activities to enjoy with your baby.
Call Julie on 07508 886213 24
www.kentmama.co.uk
new stock weekly. we buy and sell. 126 high Street, rochester (opposite casino)
01634 819887
open mon – Sat 10am til 5pm
www.just-for-kidz.co.uk
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Use discount code kentmama to get free postage
tel: 01634 711002 www.thefunkyfairy.co.uk Or visit our shop at The Mall, Bexleyheath. Open 7 days a week.
Making Movement Matter!
2 to 4 year olds Classes in: Creative maidStone,kingS hill, Physical Fun walderSlade, Strood and St mary’S iSland. CertiďŹ cates Parties Call Lisa Jarrett on Nursery 01634 682181 Classes www.lisajarrett@dinkydancers.com Free trial There’s nothing quite like Dinky Dancers
to advertise call 01634 814364
25
Pure Glitz Every Girl’s Dream
Spectacular girl’s glitter parties Have fun with the professionals and create a fabulous look for you and your special friends. Hair, Make-up, Nails, Temporary Tattoos, Friendship Bangles, Craft Making, Dancing, Party Games, Prizes and lots more.
Plus fantastic Pure Glitz party bags For more information contact:
Nina 01634 408867 or Kate 01634 233688
A truly entertaining and magical show loved by children of all ages (3+)
www.pure-glitz.co.uk.
Children’s magic shows ◆ Close-up magic Balloon modelling ◆ Learn circus skills
Little Poppets
Birthday parties, schools, nurseries, youth groups and corporate events
Face Painting & Children’s Entertainment
Princesses, Pirates, Cinderella, Snow White, Tinkerbell, Superhero, Scooby Doo, Dora, HSM & Mamma Mia themed parties with lots of magical fun!!! Ring Lisa on 01474 702523
www.littlepoppetsfacepainting.co.uk
Call Chris on 01732 847808 or 07807 927637 www.christhemagician.co.uk
Children’s Dance Parties Movers and Groovers offer 2 Party packages ● Funky Feet Groovers (suitable age 5–12 years). Hip, cool and highenergy parties tailored to your age group. Based on Disney, High School Musical, Hairspray and MTV pop videos. ● Princess Ballerina Party (3 – 6 years) based on the magic of ballet. All parties include dancing and learning routines, costumes, stories, competitions and prizes.
● Bear Making Parties ● Great Gifts ● ● Clubs & Craft Workshops ● ● School Mascots ● Fundraising Ideas ●
Fully qualified dance teachers, CRB checked and fully insured.
www.blackberriebears.co.uk
Call Sam on 07710 547672
0845 1161 848 26
www.kentmama.co.uk
Email – moversandgroovers@live.co.uk
Parties
tips from the professionals
to help your celebrationS go with a bang, we Spoke to local party entertainerS for their tipS. planning your time “Use your time before guests arrive wisely,” suggests Nina of Pure Glitz (01634 408867) who run make-over, dance and craft parties throughout Kent. “We use the half hour before the party to get all the activities set up. There’s nothing worse than finishing one activity and having children waiting for the next to start. Breaking the activities into 20-minute chunks makes it much easier to plan your time and fits in well with children’s attention spans. It’s important to get the balance right between activity and structure and downtime to play and talk. End the party with an active party game, singing or dancing and your guests will leave on a high”.
hiring an entertainer
babies and toddlers Julie Reynolds (07508 886213) leads Baby Sensory classes for children up to the age of 18 months in Maidstone and Ashford and also runs activities for 1st birthday parties. She suggests: - Keep the food simple. Finger foods such as bread sticks, carrots and grapes are ideal for younger children. - Balloons can be a choking hazard for small children. A safer option is to invest in a cheap bubble machine, most babies loves bubbles! - And finally tell your guests what time you are expecting the party to finish and plan an end activity. Giving out party bags is a clear indication that the party is now over and it’s time to go.
Leybournebased, Chris the Magician (01732 847808) performs magic shows at parties, schools and nurseries. Hiring the right entertainer can make or break a party, so Chris recommends: ● Talk to other parents for recommendations. Or look on their website for testimonials. ● Pick a professional. Experienced and competent entertainers will be CRB checked and have public liability insurance. ● 45 minutes of entertainment is about right. Some parents have the entertainment then party food, others have games first and build up to the entertainment as the finale. ● Most importantly have fun. The great thing about hiring an entertainer is that it takes the pressure off and allows the kids and their parents to laugh, relax and enjoy themselves.
to advertise call 01634 814364
27
r e t s a E t Greaveaways! Gi Kent mama’s
we’ve teamed up with kent-baSed buSineSSeS to offer you the chance to win Some local goodieS.
win
chocolate goodies from www.cocoapod.co.uk
win
personalised child’s name frame from madeinpixieland.co.uk
, 7.30pm m 9th APRIL FRIDAY ok Theatre, Chatha
tra at The Bro th Jazz Orches Kent You cial guests tion with spe Latin Sec and The Snowboy present
win
AY 10th SATURD m
APRIL,
7.30p , Chatham atre tral The tra at The Cen nty Youth Orches Kent Cou present
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, 7.30pm 11th APRIL m SUNDAY tral Theatre, Chatha and at The Cen th Choirs Kent You Orchestra th Wind Kent You present
£20 voucher and craft expo tickets from francis iles
family ticket to broadway Showstoppers, central theatre, chatham
om -music.c www.kent s, Chatham atre ase go to ation ple tral and Brook The r inform ay.co.uk Cen For furthe please go to: The sonmedw www.what For tickets 38 83 : 01634 33 Box Office
‘keys to the castle’ 12-month family ticket to leeds castle
win win win
easter cupcakes from www.cupcake avenue.co.uk
pottery painting night out for four adults at maidstone’s renaissance crafts
to enter: Simply email your name, contact email address and phone number to win@kentmama.co.uk, or log onto the competitions page on our website www.kentmama. co.uk to enter online. Alternatively send your name and phone number by post to Competitions, Kent Mama Magazine, 91 Maidstone Road, Rochester, ME1 1RL. One entry per person. Entries will be submitted into all individual prize draws. Closing date 30th March 2010. Full terms and conditions available on our website. 28
www.medwaymama.co.uk
LAURA’S ACADEMY OF NUTRITION AND EXERCISE
Personal training that gets results One-to-one training £35. Small groups from £7pp. ● No joining fees or monthly commitments – just pay for what you use. ● Fully equipped, secluded private gym, 1-to-1 and group sessions tailored to your level of fitness. ● Individualised exercise and nutrition plans for adults and children. ● 30 years’ experience working with individuals, companies and organisations.
Easter Kids Club
football, circuits, food facts and fun exercises for kids aged 7-11. £6 per child.
NEW Walk it off
group walking sessions to tone tums, bums and legs. £7pp
Watch Laura Church's Nutrition Bible on LA Muscle TV Sky 281
SPECIAL OFFER Suspension training £10 per adult / child. Sessions available 6am to 9pm.
Telephone 01634 366000 Mobile 07768 401217 E-mail: laura@laurachurch.com Website:www.laurachurch.com Westmoor Farmhouse, Moor Street, Rainham, Kent ME8 8QF to advertise call 01634 814364
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Marke’s Ices Mobile event catering at its best!
01634 375324
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endtrinsks, ice v E g old tin Spor e range of c let us cater
w id g s, er With a and hot do nt, whatev s e t ra v m x e a e cre arn r ting u r spo ou could e pecialise y s fo r yo b. We e, and arks the siz fo r you r clu cluding p in g g in g in ter in fund cater er ca doo r re oth to us e in out k h a w e . Sp elds ific and fi a re limited c u r spe ns uss yo optio c is d to today nt g eve in t r o p s s. t n e em requir
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Fundr ai schoo se for your l, cl Keep th e child ub or c ren ha fundin harity ppy an g fo r y ou r sc d ea o rg
rn anisati hool, n on o r g u you r sc roup. H rsery, hool fe ir e ou te, spo fair o r rts day r vans fo r mu s, vil lag fo r you sic event an e d raise r o rgan money isation fund ra th roug ising d onatio h ou r p rofes n polic sio y. Frien We use nal staff. All dly an fully C the hig d R B ch e h p rodu cked. cts to m est qualit y eet all caterin you r g need s.
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Stand out from the cro wd! Per sonalised van signa ge and product giveaways. Ideal for open days, co rpo rate events , team building days and lau nches. A cost-effective and uni que way to get you r message ac ross.
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Want so rr ive at ment, the fr iends. am van a entertain re c d n e a ic n n mily and fu a e their fa long w ith rv ca rd A se ip y. h to a rs d n bir th m em be to the va w in re d c e , it m v a child is in all ice cre includes Package . rd u se ! day ca and bir th , any exc
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To find out about hiring our vans or for information on our fundraising donation policy call 07768 072871 / 07833 953622 / 07827 443934 mark@markesices.co.uk / diane@markesices.co.uk robert@markesices.co.uk to advertise call 01634 814364
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FRIDAY 9th APRIL, 7.30pm at The Brook Theatre, Chatham Kent Youth Jazz Orchestra with special guests Snowboy and The Latin Section present
FRIDAY 9th APRIL, 7.30pm SATURDAY APRIL, at The Brook10th Theatre, Chatham 7.30pm at The Central Theatre, Chatham Kent Youth Jazz Orchestra Kent County Youth Orchestra withpresent special guests Snowboy and The Latin Section present SUNDAY 11th APRIL, 7.30pm at The Central Theatre, Chatham Kent Youth Choirs and Kent Youth Wind Orchestra present
For further information please go to www.kent-music.com For tickets please go to: The Central and Brook Theatres, Chatham
Box Office: 01634 338338 www.whatsonmedway.co.uk
SATURDAY 10th APRIL, 7.30pm at The Central Theatre, Chatham Kent County Youth Orchestra present
SUNDAY 11th APRIL, 7.30pm at The Central Theatre, Chatham Kent Youth Choirs and Kent Youth Wind Orchestra present
For further information please go to www.kent-music.com For tickets please go to: The Central and Brook Theatres, Chatham
Box Office: 01634 338338 www.whatsonmedway.co.uk Once you have finished with this magazine, please pass it to a friend or recycle it.