KidAround May Issue 2022

FREE DIGITAL MAGAZINE

May half term 2022

it's about being a parent where you live!

Diary Dates | Charity Events Childcare | Half-Term Fun | Articles

CONTENTS 4

22 Jubilee Celebrations

Local Charity events

9

Hello Readers,

Welcome back to our May Issue of KidAround. We have a lot to celebrate in this issue. Firstly, that we can travel again hoorah! Secondly, the Queen's Jubilee Celebrations. We also have 2 new cities in Essex - Southend and Colchester, and the new Elizabeth line running from Shenfield.

Back to this issue, we have put together some ideas on how you can get involved with the Jubilee (if like me you've left until the last minute) along with lots of events and things to do with family.

Remember when visiting events taken from our listings, please do check full details direct first as changes can happen and please do mention us when visiting or contacting any of our advertisers - it really does help.

Fingers crossed for some lovely dry weather and see you in July with our bumper Summer Holiday Issue.

Summer Safety

10

26 Out & About Monkeypox

34

Active kids Money saving tips

16

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KidAround Magazine is a digital monthly publication by Trew Publishing Ltd. Tel: 07557 053044 | info@kidaround.biz.

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Inclusion does not imply a recommendation from Trew Publishing or its staff. All advertisements and editorial content are accepted in good faith and on the basis that the advertised goods and services are as stated by the advertisers.

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Supporting your local charity Arthur's Sword on the Stone Saturday 25th June at 7:30 p.m.

Put on your dancing shoes, grab a partner and come dance the night away at Golf World Stansted. Experienced Ceilidh band Lochnagar will talk you through traditional Scottish dances, so if it’s your first, or tenth Ceilidh, you're guaranteed to have a great time.

A BBQ will be provided along with some sweet treats, with a bar running throughout the night.

All funds raised will go towards Arthur's Sword in the Stone campaign - raising funds in the hope to provide surgery and physio for Arthur, aiming to reduce the effects of cerebral palsy and give him a chance to be able to walk. For more information, please see Arthur's Sword in the Stone Just4Children page: https:// just4children.org/arthurs-sword-in-the-stone/ Golf World Stansted Ltd, CM22 6FL Lennox Children's Cancer Fund 30th Anniversary Masquerade Ball Friday 24th June at 6:30 p.m.

A Spectacular Masquerade Ball to celebrate the amazing milestone 30th Anniversary of Lennox Children's Cancer Fund.

A magical night where supporters and friends of Lennox Children's Cancer Fund will celebrate the charity's milestone 30th year anniversary.

Set in the beautiful house and grounds of Boreham House in Essex, the evening will begin at 6.30pm with welcome drinks, followed by a three-course meal, live music, DJ and a special surprise to help set the tone of the evening.

Raffle and live auction will take place during the evening. Guests will be seated at tables of ten. Attire: Evening gowns and dinner suits with masquerade masks, full costumes encouraged.

Boreham House CM3 3HY

Find out more here

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Local Charities help to provide a safe place to stay for people aged 16-25, many of whom become homeless through family breakdown, abuse or poverty.

They work alongside young people giving access to longer-term accommodation and a package of tailored support to improve their mental health, provide access to education, training and job opportunities.

The Colourthon Saturday 2nd July A two events in one, the Moonlight walk being a half marathon and the Twilight a 10k challenge.

Both events are fun walks around Southend by night with the emphasis being on fun and fund raising! They both kick off at 6pm (just ahead of the sun setting) and everyone is encouraged to dress as brightly as their imaginations will allow! Remember, there will be spot prizes for those who impress us with their costumes!

Registration open NOW

Find out more here

2022 Ride London – Essex 100 Sunday 29th May A 100 mile route taking in the capital and surrounding countryside. The event will start on Victoria Embankment and finish to rapturous applause at Tower Bridge, with 65 miles through some of Essex’s most beautiful countryside and villages in between. This is to raise essential funds for Depaul UK, a national youth homelessness charity and we need your DON’T FORGET TO MENTION US WHEN CALLING

Find out more here

A

Vintage Day Out Essex Sunday 10th July Shoppers and classic vehicle enthusiasts, start your engines as we invite vintage and retro lovers to roll back the years and dress to impress for our annual Vintage Day Out. Food and drink will be available to purchase including hog roast, cocktails and prosecco from The Tipsy Grey Ltd, ice creams from Molly Moos Ices and Afternoon Teas from Lavender Blue Vintage Teas, among others.

Celebrating all things vintage from a bygone era, Cressing Temple Barns near Braintree play host to this annual event, all to raise valuable funds for your local Helen Rollanson cancer charity.

Tickets on the day cost Adults £6, Concessions (age 65 +) £5, Children 16 and under £1. But if you pre-book your tickets online you can save £1 each! Well behaved dogs on leads are also welcome.

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ACTIVE KIDS

Inspiring Children Every Day!

Ultimate Activity Camps provide outstanding Ofsted-registered activity day camp childcare for children aged 4-14 during the school holidays, where the children’s welfare and fun are at the heart of all they do! Children will enjoy a fantastic range of sports, games and art activities every week led by engaging staff at amazing locations in Colchester and Brentwood!

Holmwood House, Colchester Established almost 100 years ago, Holmwood House School is a leading independent school for boys and girls with first-class teaching and sports facilities set in extensive grounds. The school’s facilities are ideal for running activity camps, and include: • Amazing indoor heated swimming pool • Tennis and netball courts • Large sports hall • Playing fields • Space for art and craft activities Summer 2022: Monday 25th July – Friday 26th August Website: www.ultimateactivity.co.uk/locations/colchester Brentwood School, Brentwood Brentwood School is one of the UK’s leading independent day and boarding schools. With almost 500 years of history, the school is renowned for its exceptional facilities and academic results. Located in the heart of Brentwood town, the school’s sports centre makes an ideal venue for their exciting holiday camps and facilities include: • large heated indoor swimming pool and shallow learner pool • extensive sports pitches • tennis and netball courts • all-weather astroturf for tennis and hockey • dance studio • modern sports hall • dedicated classrooms for art and craft • Wooded area for our Ultimate Survival Programme Summer 2022: Monday 18th July – Friday 26th August Website: www.ultimateactivity.co.uk/locations/brentwood GO WILD with Ultimate Survival Camps at Brentwood School Alongside their multi-activity day camps, adventurers aged 7 to 14 years can go wild during the summer holidays at Brentwood School with their Ofsted-registered Ultimate Survival programme. With the primary function of delivering a very high level of care and welfare, children will enjoy fun and adventurous outdoor summer day camps, being fully-immersed in the natural environment, trying brilliant outdoor activities and games, and making new friends!

Each week there’s a different theme offering variety no matter what day they attend. Each day they will try survival skills, and enjoy challenges and games with the added theatre of different scenarios. For the Ultimate experience, they also offer a Camp Cook Out on a Thursday night.

Summer: Monday 25th July – Friday 19th August Website: www.ultimateactivity.co.uk/programmes/ultimate-survivalcamp Ultimate SAVINGS! Book by Tuesday 7th June! £205 per week – Saving £20 off the standard weekly price of £225 £46 per day – Saving £4 off the standard daily price of £50 Offer ends Tuesday 7th June Pay by Childcare Vouchers/Tax Free Childcare Account Move dates for FREE up to 14 days prior to your booking 12 •May half-term 22 • www.kidaround.biz

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ACTIVE KIDS

DISNEY DELIGHTS

MUSICAL MADNESS ­

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ACTIVE KIDS Mega Camps– May and Summer Holiday Fun for kids!

Are you in need of childcare this May Half-Term and Summer Holiday? Well look no further as Mega Camps have multiple locations in Essex available. Dedicated to providing the best childcare activity camps for children aged 4-14 during the halfterm & school holidays we have seen our attendance grow year on year.

At Mega Camps we understand that all children are different and therefore we offer an amazing range of sports, arts & crafts and Mega activities each day such as, Wet N Wild, Animal Zoo Workshops, Wall Climbing, Archery, Bungee Trampolining, Dance Workshops, Nerf Wars, Inflatable Fun, and much more.

All our staff are enhanced DBS checked and fully qualified within their role to ensure that every child has the best experience possible.

Whether you want to send your child for multiple weeks or single days we’ve got an offer suited for you. Offers are currently available and spaces are limited.

To view your local Mega Camps venue and to book some May HalfTerm or Summer Holiday fun simply visit our website: www.megacamps.net

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Parents' Money Saving Tips

With the ever-rising cost of living, and gas and electricity being at it's very highest, you may be feeling overwhelmed with paying bills let alone feeding the family.

Here’s some tips to help you cut back.

Shopping • Shop online, the benefit of this is that it prevents impulsive buying and being tempted by products not needed. 2 for 1 deals sound great but if you don’t need the product in the first place you are adding to your shopping costs.

• Shop around, you don't have to get everything from the same store, especially if you have a few choices of shops close by. I find the discount store great for household items but not so cost effective for food purchases.

• Bulk buy, bigger packs may cost a little more but you will find most will be better value when you check the price per weight etc.

• Unbranded goods – Don’t always go for the brands you know, most of the time, the own-brands are just as good in quality and sometimes better.

• Make the most of store club cards that reward you with points.

• Vouchers - don't forget to use those vouchers.

• Second Hand Shopping • Buy second hand, facebook, shpock & vinted are great online resources or look in your local charity shop, this way you are getting cheaper stuff, plus donating to good causes.

Plus, it's great for the environment. Also, ask friends or families with slightly older children, they are often keen to de-clutter and pass on items.

• White goods, if you need a new fridge or dishwasher – look for second hand, I purchased a brand new integrated oven for £80 a fraction of the price of new.

• Furniture, you can find some good sofas, beds and other furniture which are sometimes nearly new or used in spare bedrooms so have lots of life left in them.

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Food • Make left overs, try making more than needed which you can either freeze for another day or have for lunch the following day • Plan your meal calendar for the week and stick to a budget for it.

• Take packed lunches instead of buying lunch or school meals.

• Grow your own, ok, so this isn't a quick route but if you start growing this year, you can have some lovely fruit and veg ready next year.

• Buy frozen veg – not only does it lock in the freshness, it works out cheaper and saves on lots of little trips to the shops hence avoiding spending temptation.

Low cost leisure time • Have film nights in instead of going to the cinema. You can always sign up for free trials on Netflix, Disney plus, just remember to cancel before charges apply as they get deducted from account.

• Investing in thermos flasks and picnic bags. That means you can take your own food with you and drinks with you when you go on outings with the kids.

• Cutting travel costs • Vouchers, make sure you search online for money off vouchers & discounts on cinema, attractions & restaurants • Get a Family railcard for a third off tickets for lots of journeys.

• Find out about cycling proficiency classes for the kids and get cycling.

• Car share on regular journeys like commuting or school run.

Cutting energy and fuel bills • Turn appliances off completely at night - not on standby.

• Use extra blankets/clothes/hot water bottles for warmth.

• Use the quickest & a lower temperature setting on the washing machine.

• Change light bulbs for more energy efficient ones Sell sell sell • Car boot sales/jumble sales can be fun for the kids and raise a little extra cash for yourself too.

• Upcycle furniture and sell on • If you don’t use it, sell it! If your kids have outgrown their clothes – sell them. Vinted is a great app with no fees to pay, plus the buyer pays postage, you just have to package and send and get the money.

Benefits Claim your benefits – there are benefits available to parents who do and don't work including free energy grants, some households can claim to have house insulated or heating replaced. To check what you are eligible for by visiting www. direct.gov.uk

If you are struggling and can't find a way forward, don't suffer alone, there are resources out there to help.

Here's a link to stepchange https:// www.stepchange.org

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The Sunday Times East Anglia State Secondary School of the Decade

Colchester Royal Grammar School Compassion - Respect - Generosity - Support

11+ Open Evening Tuesday 28th June 6.30pm - 9pm

No booking required Limited parking at rear of school

6 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3ND DON’T FORGET TO MENTION US WHEN CALLING

crgs.co.uk

01206 509 100 www.kidaround.biz • May half-term 22• 19

New Career Options: Working with Children

Retraining, to do something you love is possible. Gone are the days of having to leave school with your whole life mapped out - and education and training options have adjusted to provide more opportunities for busy people who want to explore their options and change or start a new career.

Apprenticeships, once stereotypically seen as traditional trades only, have evolved and been reshaped to provide a practical, more flexible way to learn, within a working environment alongside receiving a wage.

In 2021, there were over 713,000 apprentices in England.

Over 47% of apprenticeships started were by people over 24 years old during the academic year 2019-20.

Many employers value apprentices joining their team because team members receive support and vital training, whilst fees are covered either through their levy tax, a nominal percentage or they may even receive incentives.

A training provider will often support employers with recruitment and help them complete all the necessary paperwork.

If you’re interested in training as a professional within Childcare, choosing an apprenticeship programme can help take some of the pressure off. There are no upper age limits, entry requirements are normally English and Maths at GCSE level and you are supported every step of the way.

You’ll receive help with finding placements and undergoing an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and once you’re on the programme you’ll receive regular training, support and preparation for assessments along with careers guidance to plan the next steps in your career progression.

If you’d like to work with children you might be considering working in full day care, children’s centres, preschools, as a key person or childminder.

Chelmsford College currently has two apprenticeship programmes available in Childcare: Early Years Practitioner Level 2 and Early Years Educator Level 3.

Training as an Early Years Practitioner or Educator means you’ll develop the skills and knowledge required to work in a Childcare setting, with insights into how children develop and learn, ensuring that young children learn and develop well and are kept healthy and safe. You’ll be interested in learning about children’s cognitive, behavioural, social and physical development. You’ll learn about the Early Years statutory frameworks and related requirements to uphold and give due regard to equalities, diversity, inclusion, anti-discrimination and human rights. You’ll help younger children prepare and be ready for school through supporting and promoting their education and development. If you’re considering a future working in Childcare your days will be fun, creative and educational. If you want to explore your options beyond practical Childcare you might want to work towards your Early Years Teacher status or a Foundation Degree in due course. Whatever you decide you’ll need to gain the right knowledge, skills and trusted qualifications if you want to work with children.

Chelmsford College can help you take the next steps forward. You’re entitled to free careers advice and support. To receive careers advice from our Information, Advice and Guidance professionals you can call 01245 293031 or email careersadvicezone@chelmsford.ac.uk To find out more about apprenticeship programmes in Childcare please contact Annette Sonnet on 07904 887234 or email employers@chelmsford.ac.uk

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In 2022, Her Majesty, The Queen, will become the first British Monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee after 70 years of service. Get involved in celebrating Her Majesty’s historic reign in the run up to the Platinum Jubilee Central Weekend which takes place from 2nd to 5th June. Here's some information shared on the Government website.

Street parties

How to get involved

The UK has a long history of organised street parties to celebrate national events.

Why not organise one for your neighbours for the Platinum Jubilee?

You’re welcome to host parties right across the bank holiday weekend, or as part of The Big Jubilee Lunch (see below).

Read guidance on how to host a street party.

If you’re planning to host a street party, you can share the details for people to find out more the interactive map.

All events must comply with the public health guidance in place at the time.

To include your event and to find out more CLICK HERE

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JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS

The Big Jubilee Lunch To coincide with the Platinum Jubilee, The Big Jubilee Lunch will be taking place on Sunday 5 June.

Every year since the idea began in 2009, The Big Lunch has encouraged communities to celebrate their connections and get to know each other a little bit better.

Following the success of the first Big Jubilee Lunch, to celebrate Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012, The Big Lunch will bring the Jubilee celebrations into the heart of every community again.

Design a crown

All you need to do is design a special crown to wear to celebrate the Jubilee weekend.

You could make your own from scratch or download and decorate the template fromthe government toolkit.

From colouring pens and paint, glitter and sequins – use your favourite materials to make your perfect crown for the Platinum Jubilee and send us a pic or video of your entry.

And if you want to do something equally fitting, you can share your other Platinum Jubilee creations – from poems and videos to whatever else you’ll bemaking for the jubilee weekend, paying tribute to The Queen.

They want to see all your creative artworks!

So let’s see what you’ve got.

How to enter Post your creative content on social media using the #PlatinumJubileehashtag and tagging DCMS using @DCMS on Twitter or @dcmsgovuk on Facebook and Instagram.

Email your entries to creativechallenge@dcms.gov.uk where they will feature a selection on the website.

Just include your first name, age and town, alongside your entry. find out more here

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Fill your diary with things to do May

Now – Tues 31

Now – Fri 27

Family Safari Trail Embark on a self-guided Family Safari Trail. Navigate the globe, in just one day, in search of the wooden animals making our Arboretum their home. On return to admissions pick up your wellearned prize. Markshall Estate, CO6 1TG READ MORE

These listing were correct at time of making this issue.

However, please check with the event provider before leaving. Many events may be fully booked at this popular time of year.

24 •May half-term 22 • www.kidaround.biz

Fossil Findings Looking at the formation of mould and cast fossils. Children will be making their own cast of a fossil to take home with them.

1:30, 2:00, 2:30. Maldon Museum in the Park.

READ MORE

Fri 27 – 17 Jul

Family Crown Trail As part of a host of activities, make sure you enjoy a regal hide and seek. Grab your boots and embark on our self-guided trail. Hunt through the zones in The Arboretum to find the multicoloured crowns hidden amongst the foliage.

READ MORE

Every Fri

Open Day Explore the grounds at Beeleigh Abbey this summer, including three acres of beautifully maintained gardens in a historic countryside setting, with mature trees surrounding the many plant and water features. There are also woodland walks leading to the tidal River Chelmer, Beeleigh Falls, cottage & bog gardens. 10:30-4:30. Beeleigh Abbey Gardens, CM9 6LL

Fri 27 – Sun 5 (Jun)

Carters Steam Fair Experience the thrills of a bygone era and feast your senses: the rock’n’roll music, sumptuous colours, steam engines, twinkling lights, lilting fairground organ, the aroma of doughnuts, candy floss and coal.

A fabulous family day out. Entry to the fair is free but you must have tokens for all the rides and stalls which will be available online, including special deals with extra free rides! Promenade Park, Maldon. READ MORE

Fri 27

SEND Party Nights Dance the night away and make new friends at our bi-monthly, fun-filled party for people aged 7-14. The evening takes place in a safe, positive environment and includes: DJ playing your favourite tunes, face painting, glitter artists, group games, snacks, loads of sensory toys to play with! 6:30pm -8.30pm, £5.

Mercury Theatre, CO1 1PT. READ MORE

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KIDAROUND

Bluebell Walks Enjoy a stroll through the ancient woodlands and marvel at the beautiful blooms carpeting the forest floor. The Castle will be open to explore as well as the cafe serving light refreshments. Picnics welcome.

Dogs on lead. Hedingham Castle, CO9 3DJ

Now - Sat 25 (Jun)

KIDAROUND

DIARY DATES Fri 27

Babel at the Naze Tower Seven musicians from the innovative Echo Ensemble, each on their own level of Walton's iconic Naze Tower, perform Noah Max's Babel amidst a wide selection of local artwork.

Wander (quietly!) up and down the tower and experience the music at close quarters. Naze Tower, Walton-on-the-Naze.

READ MORE

Sat 28 – Sun 5 (Jun)

Lawn Games at The Garden Hub Join us this half term to commemorate our 50th Anniversary year and the Queen’s Jubilee. Competitors of all ages will love our Games this summer.

Test your skills at Giant Jenga, traditional Quoits, Swedish Molkky, or see who’s got the best aim with bean bag throwing.

READ MORE

Sat 28 – Sun 5

Sat 28

Sat 28 – Sun 5

Sat 28

Sun 29

Once Upon a Time We are not sure who it was, or how it happened but someone found the magic lamp. Unknown to them they did not realise the magic or wonderment this would create! Characters appearing from Never Never Land, Arendelle, Wonderland and much much more. Nevendon Manor, SS12 0QA. READ MORE

Kids Rule Get ready for a right royal kneesup at our Kids Rule events this May half-term. Celebrate the jubilee half term week by joining our Victorian Fairy Hunters on a very Victorian pass-time.

Immerse yourself in the time of Queen Victoria by picking up your quest sheet from our Fairy Hunters and search for the mystical fairies, imps and nymphs hiding in the gardens.

Book online and save! Audley End Estate. READ MORE

Hospital Radio Fun Day Enjoy a range of events, performances, and activities for the whole family, including: ILAZ Performerz Dance Company, Tendring Dog Agility Group, zorbs, Thurstable School cheerleaders, bouncy castles, charity stalls, funfair rides, face painting, donkey rides and lots more. Plus, the traditional Rotary Club of Colchester Forum 2022 Duck Race. Adults £3.00, Children – free. 11am – 4pm. Lower Castle Park, Colchester. Free parking in King's Meadow. READ MORE

Sat 28

Sat 28

Love Your Library Day Join us for fun with a suitably royal theme in honour of the Jubilee. Story time, crafts and special guests for the children plus free tea and coffee fit for a Queen (or King!) No need to book just come along. Maldon Library. READ MORE

Solar Gazing Join the North Essex Astronomical Society to view the sun in complete safety.

11:00 - 14:30. Markshall Estate, Colchester. READ MORE

Wildlife Week Take a peep inside our fascinating bug hotels, try and spot a worm or two hiding in the wormery and explore our NEW nature pond. Your family can enjoy a magical journey on our miniature railway which takes you deep into our ancient woods.

Audley End Miniature Railway.

CB11 4JB. READ MORE Wings & Wheels Bring the whole family to enjoy the event. Set in the wonderful open space of the Aerodrome, you can view the classic cars, vans and motorcycles, explore the new Guiding the Empire and Words Without Wires exhibitions, see the Model T Ford(s) up close.

11am-4pm. Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, CM3 6RJ. READ MORE

Mon 30

Fireman Sam Live! Saves The Circus When all of his friends go away, Norman Price decides to find adventure in Pontypandy and become the star of a visiting circus. But with a tiger on the loose and faulty lights, the adventure soon turns to danger.

Princes Theatre, Clacton.

READ MORE

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Fri 3 - Sun 5

Dinosaur World Live Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roarsome interactive show for all the family. Grab your compass and join our intrepid explorer across uncharted territories to discover a prehistoric world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs. Mercury Theatre, CO1 1PT. READ MORE

Fri 10 – Sun 12 Mon 30 – Wed 1 (Jun)

Make a Fun Fascinator or Medal Prepare to celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee as you make a Fun Fascinator or Medal of Honour to wear for the special occasion! Brighlingsea Museum.

READ MORE

Tues 31-Wed 1 (Jun)

Discovery of Dragons Part the mists of time and head to Colchester Castle’s Discovery of Dragons Day. Come face to face with not one, but four spellbinding dragons who will be waiting to greet visitors.

READ MORE Stay and Play Lego Come and Celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee at our family Stay and Play Lego session. Can you design your own castle, fit for a Queen or perhaps an accessory for the corgis? Let your imagination run wild at this free event in the Cathedral. An adult must stay with the child throughout. READ MORE

Thurs 2 – Sun 5

Celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Four days of events, with music, refreshments, rounders, big lunch and other fun things to fo to celebrate the Jubilee.

READ MORE

Thurs 2

Children’s Day A fun educational activity-based experience aboard Thames Sailing Barge "Centaur" (Built in 1895). Explore the barge above and below deck with your child's free activity pack. Aged 5-11. Each session last one hour.

Entrance is by Donation—prebooking required. Hythe Quay, CM9 5HN READ MORE

Fri 17-Sun19

Foodies festival With a star-studded line-up of celebrity chefs and chart-topping music stars. Foodies Festival (dubbed “Gastro-Glasto”) is the biggest touring gourmet food festival in the UK, featuring MasterChef champions, stars of Great British Bake-Off and Michelin starred chefs. Hylands House, Chelmsford. READ MORE

Sat 18

Brentwood Strawberry Fair Brentwood's much-loved, annual Strawberry Fair will return.

There will be a main stage Fri 3 – Sun 3 (Jul) with performances during the Chelmsford Festival day, fairground rides, food and A month-long celebration of Music, Dance, Visual Arts, Science, drink stalls and, of course, fresh Heritage, Street Theatre & more. strawberries. 11am to 6pm.

Shenfield Common. CM15 8DF. With lots of activities fun for all READ MORE the family. READ MORE

Sat 18

Rowhedge Regatta Return this year for a lovely family day. Rowhedge.

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Tues 31 - Fri 15 (Jul)

June

Thaxted Morris Weekend Join the oldest surviving Morris revival side in the country as they tour around the local area dancing culminating in the spectacular procession through Thaxted and dancing in the churchyard. A site not to be missed! READ MORE

KIDAROUND

DIARY DATES Sat 18 – Sun 19

The Nearly Festival An affordable alternative to the bigger touring festivals & features 14 of the UK's best touring tribute acts live on stage, a 'Kidzone' with cool kids attractions & activities, a tasty & local 'Street Food Market' & a pub priced 'Pub in the Park'! The Old Heath Rec, Colchester READ MORE

Sun 19

Blackwater Country Show The show warmly welcomes thousands of visitors from miles around. This is a local, big show in its 15th year with a friendly, relaxed atmosphere surrounded by soft hedgerows and natures wildlife. In support of the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance. Nr Maldon. CM9 4RB READ MORE

Sun 19

Falconry Display on Father's Day, There will be static and flying displays from a variety of birds.

Opportunity to get up close to the birds of prey, meet and speak with members of the Falconry Team who will be happy to answer all your bird of prey related questions. Layer Marney Tower. CO5 9US READ MORE

July

Sun 19

Visit the Vulcan on Fathers' Day As well as the Vulcan, there will be much to keep Dad and the rest of the family entertained.

There will be examples of the weapons carried by the Vulcan during its time with the RAF, including examples of the type of 1,000 lb high explosive bomb the Vulcan dropped on Port Stanley airfield during the 1982 Falklands Conflict. READ MORE

Sat 25

Town Show / Funfair Annual Town Show with Funfair, stalls, games, food and drink, performers and other family entertainment. Waltham Abbey EN9 1JH. READ MORE

Sat 25

Home Farm Summer Circus Go along to the fun circus alongside their summer fayre where you will have an opportunity to go on bouncy castles, play on a crockery smash, a coconut shy or have your face painted. There will also be a BBQ and a licensed bar.

We can’t wait to see you all on the day. £6/under 3’s free. Home farm School, Colchester.

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Father's Day Sunday 19th June Don't forget the breakfast in bed and beer!

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Sat 2

Mayland Music Festival There will be a bbq stall/pizza van/soft drinks/hot drinks/ice creams/sweet stalls all on site.

Plus you can bring your own drink. What's not to like about that.Come and spend your day in the Park listening to a great variety of music from local bands. £15/£10/free. Lawling Park, Mayland. For tickets phone/text 07972307318

Sun 10

REACH Riding for Disabled We will be offering meet and greet with our wonderful ponies, demos from the Metropolitan Police Mounted Branch and our riders as well as tombola, face painting, cake sale and arts and crafts sessions for children.

Brentwood, CM14 5TB READ MORE

Sun 17

Billericay Food & Drink Festival Showcasing over 50 food, drink and outside entertaining stands including cheese, wine, gin, prosecco, oysters, gourmet burgers, exotic fruits, private catering, luxury hampers and so much more! Free tastings, demonstrations, hog roast and live music. Free foodie goodie for first 250 through the door, plus spot prizes awarded throughout the day including meals out, hampers and more! No dogs other than assistance dogs.

11am-5pm. READ MORE

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Things We like, Summer Keeping Cool - For Kids & Adults Our children love making colourful ‘mocktails’ to drink in the garden, which you can do using all different fruit juices. Add some sparkle to the glass by dipping the rim in lemon juice and then in some sugar, then finish it off with a cocktail umbrella (if possible). Whilst they drink theirs, here’s one for us adults - we love making frozen cocktails! G&T with slices of cucumber are particularly delicious. To make 10 lollies mix 700ml tonic water with 45ml gin and the juice of ¼ lime. Put cucumber slices, or lime if you prefer, into the lolly moulds, pour in the tonic mix and freeze for 12 hours. You may find that these will melt quicker than normal lollies because of the alcohol, so you have to eat them quick!

Good Health - Coconut Oil We are amazed by the amount of uses that are being discovered for Coconut Oil. It can be used in all sorts of ways when cooking and there are endless reported benefits for your health, beauty and wellbeing. The one we get is KTC 100% Pure Coconut Oil at just £2.99 for 500ml widely available in supermarkets and health food shops- it’s the new wonderstuff!

Wineglass Shades We saw this gorgeous idea and are definitely going to be making some of these for our summer evenings with friends.

You can use any paper or card to form the shade for your

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wineglass (templates available online, just search for wineglass shades). Please make sure you use only battery operated tea lights as other materials maybe highly flamable. Sourced from Pinterest Must Have Garden Pots Summer Gardens. Pots painted with glowin-the-dark paint look fantastic in the garden at night. Why not repurpose old jars into lovely garden lanterns. You can turn most jars into lanterns using wire around the rim onto which you can attach a handle. They look lovely plain or painted and you can be creative with what you fill them with. Sourced from Pinterest Recycled Jar Garden Lanterns It’s amazing how many things can be made using jars, these are our current favouritesgarden lanterns. Perfect for summer evenings, all you need is an old glass jar, some string and wire (long enough to wrap around the jar neck)...voila! Idea sourced from Pintrest.

Booster With A Difference Take this BubbleBum Booster Seat wherever you go. This lightweight booster seat is incredibly easy to transport due to it weighing as much as three bananas! Say goodbye to hard rigid plastic and hello to high density memory foam. Your little one will be safe and secure as well as comfortable. Available from Aldi £17.99 BUY HERE

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DAYS OUT

Hedingham Castle’s Summer of Events has begun!

Enjoy a fantastic variety of entertainment this summer on the historic Hedingham estate. With imaginative open-air theatre for the whole family including The Three Musketeers and Pride & Prejudice, iconic outdoor cinema screenings and a mysterious escape room INSIDE the Castle, there is something for everyone! Bring a picnic and enjoy hot summer days in the gardens and exploring the Castle, then August brings the Classic & Vintage Car Show and, to round off the summer season, the Knights of Arkley return to battle it out for a fabulous Bank Holiday weekend of jousting, falconry and family fun.

For the full line up, dates and to book tickets visit www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk.

Discovery of Dragons at Colchester Castle Part the mists of time and head to Colchester Castle’s Discovery of Dragons Day. Come face to face with not one, but four spellbinding dragons who will be waiting to greet and entertain visitors on the 31 May and 1 June.

You’ll get to meet red dragon Epico, playful dragon, elegant green Braccus, Ildrie, the sleepy one of the family and cute baby Nuri, everyone’s favourite! With colourful scaly legs, plumes of smoke and friendly eyes, there is no need to fear the Castle’s new friends.

Watch Epico and Braccus in their Land of Adventure show, packed full of family fun. With three, one-hour shows taking place each day you will never miss a performance.

You can also take part in additional interactive activities that include making your very own Coronation Crown, a majestic Kings & Queens trail around the Castle and of course all the Castle’s treasures and displays.

Finally, make sure you bring your pocket money as there will be plenty of treats in our pop-up Dragon shop to remind you of your special day.

Find out more at Discovery of Dragons Day | Colchester Museums (cimuseums.org.uk) DON’T FORGET TO MENTION US WHEN CALLING

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A roar-some time in store at the Mercury!

Dinosaurs, dragons and a day full of jubilee celebrations set to entertain families at the Mercury Theatre in Colchester this June.

Dinosaur World Live!

Fri 3 – Sun 5 Jun | 11.30am & 2.30pm | Tickets £14 | Recommend for ages 3+ Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roarsome interactive show for all the family.

Grab your compass and join our intrepid explorer across uncharted territories to discover a pre-historic world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs. Meet a host of impressive creatures, including every child’s favourite flesh-eating giant, the Tyrannosaurus Rex, a Triceratops, Giraffatitan, Microraptor and Segnosaurus!

A special meet and greet after the show offers all our brave explorers the chance to make a new dinosaur friend. Don’t miss this entertaining and mind-expanding Jurassic adventure, live on stage. Book now before tickets become extinct! Discounts available for groups of 10+ Zog and the Flying Doctors Sat 11 Jun 10am & 12pm | Sun 12 Jun 10.30am, 1.30pm & 3.30pm| Tickets from £14.50 | Recommend for ages 3+ Zog, super keen student turned air-ambulance, still lands with a crashbang-thump. Together with his Flying Doctor crew, Princess Pearl and Sir Gadabout, they tend to a sunburnt mermaid, a unicorn with one too many horns and a lion with the flu. However, Pearl’s uncle, the King, has other ideas about whether princesses should be doctors, and she’s soon locked up in the castle back in a crown and a silly frilly dress!

With a bit of help from some friends and half a pound of cheese, can Pearl make her uncle better and prove princesses can be doctors too?

Based on Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling sequel, Freckle Productions (Zog, Stick Man, Tiddler & Other Terrific Tales) bring the creative team behind Zog, Emma Kilbey and Joe Stilgoe, back together for this truly modern take on the classic fairy tale.

The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee at the Mercury Sun 5 Jun | 12-8pm | FREE | All ages The Mercury are inviting families to join together for a fun-filled free day of street party fun, featuring lots of outside activities on the recently re-furbished Mercury Theatre piazza, hosted by regular Pantomime favourites Antony Stuart-Hicks and Dale Superville.

Activities will include: Dance & music performances Sing-a-longs Dance workshops Crafts Dressing up Face painting and more!

The day is FREE to attend and no need to book. Just turn up – why not combine with a visit to see Dinosaur World Live, entertaining families in the main theatre throughout the day!

Taking Part Activities for Young People Did you know we are now running more clubs and activities for young people than ever before?

Our Mercury Young Company has groups for ages 5-25. MYC is our year-round ensemble of young people training to be the theatre-makers of tomorrow.

Our groups meet weekly to explore playful new methods of storytelling and to create exciting pieces of theatre. Our fun, friendly classes focus on training young people to work together as an ensemble.

We also offer Tots sessions, Musical Theatre classes, Song Cycle classes, Crafternoons for kids, Summer and half-term holiday camps and specific activities for young people with SEND. To view our full Taking Part offering, book for the above shows or view our full What’s On, visit www.mercurytheatre.co.uk or give our friendly box office staff a call on 01206 573948.

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Monkeypox As we move on from one pandemic, we are now being frightened about the preospects of another, Monkeypox, but how dangerous and contagious is it?

We turn to the NHS to find out more about the virus.

Advice taken from NHS. Transmission Monkeypox does not spread easily between people.

Spread of monkeypox may occur when a person comes into close contact with an infected animal (rodents are believed to be the primary animal reservoir for transmission to humans), human, or materials contaminated with the virus. Monkeypox has not been detected in animals in the UK. The virus enters the body through broken skin (even if not visible), the respiratory tract, or the mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth).

Person-to-person spread is uncommon, but may occur through: contact with clothing or linens (such as bedding or towels) used by an infected person direct contact with monkeypox skin lesions or scabs coughing or sneezing of an individual with a monkeypox rash Clinical features The incubation period is the duration/time between contact with the infected person and the time that the first symptoms appear. The incubation period for monkeypox is between 5 and 21 days.

Monkeypox infection is usually a self-limiting illness and most people recover within several weeks.

However, severe illness can occur in some individuals.

The illness begins with: • fever • headache • muscle aches • backache • swollen lymph nodes • chills • exhaustion

Images of individual monkeypox lesions

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Within 1 to 5 days after the appearance of fever, a rash develops, often beginning on the face then spreading to other parts of the body. The rash changes and goes through different stages before finally forming a scab which later falls off.

An individual is contagious until all the scabs have fallen off and there is intact skin underneath. The scabs may also contain infectious virus material.

Notes Areas of erythema and/or skin hyperpigmentation are often seen around discrete lesions.

Lesions can vary in size and may be larger than those shown.

Lesions of different appearances and stages may be seen at the same point in time.

Detached scabs may be considerably smaller than the original lesion.

Diagnosis Clinical diagnosis of monkeypox can be difficult, and it is often confused with other infections such as chickenpox. A definite diagnosis of monkeypox requires assessment by a health professional and specific testing in a specialist laboratory.

In the UK, the Rare and Imported Pathogens Laboratory (RIPL) at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) Porton Down is the designated diagnostic laboratory.

Suspected cases should be discussed with the Imported Fever Service prior to submitting samples for laboratory testing.

Treatment Treatment for monkeypox is mainly supportive. The illness is usually mild and most of those infected will recover within a few weeks without treatment.

Smallpox vaccine, cidofovir, and tecovirimat can be used to control outbreaks of monkeypox.

Vaccination against smallpox can be used for both pre and post exposure and is up to 85% effective in preventing monkeypox. People vaccinated against smallpox in childhood may experience a milder disease.

Infection prevention and control Prevention of transmission of infection by respiratory and contact routes is required. Appropriate respiratory isolation is essential for suspected and confirmed cases. Scabs are also infectious and care must be taken to avoid infection through handling bedding, clothing, and so on.

Do we need to worry?

So with nine (at time of publishing) confirmed cases in the UK, it does seem to be transmitting slowly.

However, reading the evidence it isn't as highly contagious. The toughest part of contracting Monkeypox (which is a low risk) you have to avoid spreading by isolation which may take a few weeks as the scabs still make you contagious unlike chickenpox.

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