North Essex - Winter 14/15 - Issue 59

News & Views

Contents This Winter 05 News & Views 12 Let’s Party

Education Matters 17 Education 18 Tutors

What’s On 28 Diary Dates 30 Panto’s

Welcome to

Winter

Family Life

Get all cosy with our latest issue and a warming mug of hot chocolate. We’ve got lots of features to help you make the most of the winter months and the festive season.

Starting with our magical Winter Wonderland feature on page 20 filled with lots of ideas for special days out during the Christmas holidays.

If you are planning a party, look no further than our Let’s Party feature on page 12. Have fun whatever you decide to do!

Want to have a special evening with the family? There’s the Festive Entertainment feature on page 30 with a comprehensive guide to theatre shows throughout the winter.

And finally, we have our Birth & Beyond feature for those of you that are expecting a baby (a perfect Christmas Present), have just had a baby and for those of you with toddlers running around. This can be found on page 38.

Remember to keep safe and warm in the colder, darker nights!

The KidAround team wish you & your family a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy 2015. See you again in Spring!

Contact Us

(we are a friendly bunch) Publisher: Anna Hurley anna.hurley@kidaround.biz Sales Manager: Kate Ellison kate.ellison@kidaround.biz Listings Editor: Suzanne Gardner suzanne.gardner@kidaround.biz Social Media: Tina Read tina.read@kidaround.biz Tel: 01371 238071

Don’t forget to say you found it in KidAround Magazine, it really does help!

KidAround is published quarterly by Trew Publishing Ltd. Address: 66 Baynard Avenue, Little Dunmow, Essex, CM6 3FD Tel: 01371 238071 | email: info@kidaround.biz Circulation: over 120,000 - two Essex editions.

33 Classified / Wellbeing 34 Get Active

Early Years 38 Birth & Beyond 41 Childcare

Seasonal Special 20 Winter Wonderland 46 Christmas Kids Page

Giveaways!

06 RSPB Goodies 10 Competition Page 19 Website Software 31 Theatre Tickets 45 Book Reviews & book giveaway 46 Christmas Kids Competitions

News & Views

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 5

News & Views

Winter dates for your diary: 18th Jan 2015 – Winnie the Pooh Day Celebrate AA Milne’s most famous book character, on the day of the author’s birth. Perhaps you can create some Winnie the Pooh artwork, create your own Hundred Acre Wood and have a teddy bear’s picnic? Dust off your Winnie the Pooh books and make a visit to the House at Pooh Corner, or have a game of Poohsticks!

24th Jan 2015 – Global Belly Laugh Day There are thousands of spoken languages in the world, but what unites everyone? Laughter! Global Belly Laugh Day will celebrate one of our very favourite past-times. Laughing makes us feel happier and more energetic – and even boosts our immune system! Get people laughing anywhere and everywhere!

25th – 31st Jan 2015 – Farmhouse Breakfast Week Breakfast benefits you and your family and can help make you healthier and happier. It provides you with the energy and nutrients needed for an active lifestyle. Why not start a school breakfast club, breakfast competition, or even breakfast games like The Oat Sack Race, Egg and Spoon Race, Toss the Toast Challenge or Breakfast Relay Race!

31st Jan – 7th Feb 2015 – National Storytelling Week National Storytelling Week was set up to increase public awareness of the art, practice and value of storytelling. Why not set up a storytelling group at school, some storytelling events or even a storytelling competition? For further information go to www.sfs.org.uk/national-storytelling-week

Free Taster day with delicious lunch at Orchard Barns Nurseries

On the 17th January 2015 children are invited to sample a typical day at two countryside nurseries. Available for babies through to pre-school children, this day will give parents the opportunity to stay with their child while he or she samples the activities on offer at Orchard Barns Stratford St Mary and Orchard Barns Babies in Ardleigh.

To book a place or find out more details please call. Becki/Susan for babies to two years on 01206 231195 or Shelley for two years to preschool on 01206 323093

6th Feb 2015 – Day For Change

Day for Change is a chance for your school to learn about what life is like for children around the world. This year it is about protecting children caught in emergencies, such as the recent Philippines typhoon and the Syria conflict. Whenever or wherever disaster strikes, UNICEF responds rapidly to deliver life-saving food, medicine and water so children in danger get the help they need. Register your school on www.unicef.org.uk/ asp/regions/events/registration_dayforchange and help raise donations for children across the world.

7th Feb 2015 – Send a Card to a Friend Day We often think about our friends and wonder how they are. So why not send them a card and let them know that you are thinking of them! Send an Ecard, buy a card, or make one yourself. Whichever way you choose, set aside a few minutes to write a card and make a friend’s day!

14th – 21st Feb 2015 – National Nest Box Week Natural nest sites for birds such as holes in trees or old buildings are disappearing fast as gardens are ‘tidied’ and old houses are repaired. Taking part in NNBW gives you the chance to contribute to bird conservation whilst giving you the pleasure of observing any breeding birds that you attract to your nest box.

How to take part: Register for your free NNBW information pack; Make a nest box or buy a nest box; Monitor your nest box and tell us what you saw. www.bto.org/about-birds/nnbw

RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch 24th and 25th January 2015

The UK will once again be peering out of their windows for the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th January 2015.

Since it started in 1979, the survey has helped to alert conservationists to those species of garden birds in decline such as house sparrows, greenfinches and starlings.

Participants are asked to spend just one hour over the birdwatch weekend noting the highest number of each bird seen in their gardens or local outside space. Then submit their results to the RSPB before 13th February, online at www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch or in the post.

This year, participants are asked to log other wildlife they see in their gardens to show how important our gardens are for giving wildlife a home.

Participants don’t have to see and count these other species during their Big Garden Birdwatch hour, just fill in the form to tell the RSPB whether they see them regularly or in fact have ever seen them in their gardens, at any time of year.

The survey is part of the RSPB’s Giving Nature a Home campaign, aimed at tackling the housing crisis facing the UK’s threatened wildlife. The charity is asking people to provide a place for wildlife in their own gardens and outside spaces – whether it be planting pollen-rich plants to attract bees and butterflies, putting up a nestbox for a house sparrow, or creating a pond that will support a number of different species.

To find out how you can help visit www.rspb.org.uk/homes. From 15th December 2014 you can register to take part in Big Garden Birdwatch 2015 at www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch

6 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

News & Views

Thinking Of Fostering?

Children First Fostering Agency wants to dispel many of the myths that surround fostering by: •

Telling you that you don’t need to own your own home and you don’t need to be married.

•

Saying that, yes you can be gay, can be single, and can be divorced to foster.

•

Take the time to ask, and to find out that you could honestly and truly make an amazing difference to a young person’s passage towards adulthood.

Did you know there are over 92,000 looked after children in the United Kingdom of whom some 67,000 children and young people live with loving foster families in every City, Borough, County and Shire? This means that somewhere near you, someone is making a real difference to a child or young person’s life.

“Take the first step on a journey that will set you on a path to help a youngster back onto theirs.”

They are your local fostering agency who believe that all sorts of families of different shapes and sizes are able to foster, you will be supported by quality staff, ongoing and professional training - you can make the difference!

They offer regular ‘open events’ around the area, we also offer ‘talk to us’ options, see our website. If you have a community group or just want someone to talk to group of friends at home Children First Fostering Fostering Agency will be happy to make the time to come and provide all the information you need.

Please visit our website wwwcffa.co.uk , call Kim 07887 522717 email: kim@cffa.co.uk, we would love to hear from you. www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 7

News & Views Isobelle Molloy as young Malecifent in Disney’s Maleficent

Here’s what happened when Holly & Gracie got to interview the talented young actress, Isobelle Molloy As “Maleficent” comes to Blu-ray, Digital HD and DVD from Walt Disney Studios Inhome Entertainment, KidAround were given the opportunity to interview Isobelle Molloy, the Chelmsford born, 14 year old actress who plays the young Maleficent in the new hit Disney film. She has also starred in the original London production of ‘Maltilda’ a performance that brought her to the attention of the “Maleficent” filmmakers and subsequently led to her motion picture debut.

KidAround knew two Maleficent fans who were really excited to interview Isobelle over the phone. They were in charge of writting their own questions and here’s what they found out:

How did you get into acting?

Do you have a famous boyfriend?

I went to a weekend theatre school called Tomorrows talent in Chelmsford. They put me up for lots of auditions and I’ve been lucky enough to get a few of them.

No not yet! (all the girls giggle!)

Who is your favourite actor?

Our little interviewers, Gracie & Holly

It was really, really fun, an amazing experience, it was really cool.

I’m not sure. I do really like Angelina Jolie, I think she is a really good actress but I really like a lot of actors and actresses: it’s so hard to choose.

Were you excited when you got the part of young Maleficient?

Do you get scared when you are filming the scary parts in films?

What was performing on stage like when you were Matilda?

Yes I was really happy, I couldn’t wait to get started.

Is Angelina Jolie nice?

Yes she is really lovely. When I met her she was really helpful and friendly.

Were the wings heavy?

Well I didn’t actually have to wear the wings, they were added in afterwards with special effects and clever technology.

How did you fit in school when you were acting?

I go to a theatre school in Maidenhead, they are very supportive and make sure that I keep up with all my schoolwork. I also have a tutor on set.

Has being an actress changed how school friends treat you?

Well I thought it would but my friends are all really supportive and they all do acting too so I get to go and watch them as well as they watch me. So I’m lucky as it hasn’t really.

Big Kidz Club

The new and amazing barn for out of school facilities located in the grounds of Nanny Jo’s Day Nursery, Thorpe-Le-Soken. The unique purpose built lodge and it’s magnificent woody play areas offer primary school aged children the perfect place to explore and unwind after school or during the holidays.

The fully serviced lodge has all the practical facilities and resources required for children to further develop their independence by ensuring they have continuous, yet safe access to activities such as cooking, gardening and crafts. The interior has been carefully designed and decorated to ensure a unique, calm, homely feel with plenty of soft furnishing to snuggle up in after a busy day at school.

The club currently offers afterschool pick ups from local primary schools caring for your child from 3pm to 5:30pm for just £10 per session.

During the school holidays Nanny Jo’s offer a fun packed day from 8:30am to 5:30pm or if you prefer a half day with prices starting from £12.50 And to help parents with emergency childcare they will be providing sporadic cover for local primary school closures due to teacher strikes or adverse weather conditions.

To privately book the venue for birthday parties or events please contact Steve on 01255 860080 or email steve@nannyjosnursery.co.uk Testimonials Parents ‘Thank you to the big kidz team my daughters 5 and 7 have had the best time ever this week!’‘Only problem was he never wanted to come home!’

Children ‘I like playing outside, building dens and climbing trees with my friends’ ‘Best bit was when we had a real fire and cooked marshmallows’ Spaces are filling up fast! So to secure your place or book a visit call 01255 860080 or email info@nannyjosnursery.co.uk

8 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

At first when I first started acting it could be quite scary and I was quite nervous, but you soon get used to it and it becomes not at all scary when you get into it.

What’s your favourite music or band?

I like Ed Sheeran and I quite like One Direction (Gracie and Holly cheer and all girls giggle!)

What are you doing next?

In November I’m playing Louisa in The Sound Of Music on stage and I have more auditions and school so really busy.

Can we have your autograph please?

Yes of course you can. (signed photo recieved with big smiles from Holly & Gracie) Interview by Holly Ellison aged 8 and Gracie Hurley aged 9

World Book Day 5th March 2015

World Book Day is a worldwide celebration of books and reading and is marked in over 100 countries.

A main aim of World Book Day in the UK is to encourage children to explore the pleasures of books and reading by providing them with the opportunity to have a book of their own.

To mark the day, school children are entitled to a World Book Day £1 book token supplied by National Book Tokens Ltd. The £1 book token can be exchanged for one of eight specially published World Book Day £1 books, or is redeemable against any book or audio book of their choice costing £2.99 or more at a participating bookshop or book club. The World Book Day £1 book token will be valid from 3 March to 30 March 2014.

Many primary schools like to mark World Book Day by inviting children to go to school dressed as characters from their favourite books. If your school is taking part and you would like to send a photo for us to share on our website we would love to see them. Please send your photo to tina.read@kidaround.biz To find out more about World Book Day visit www.worldbookday.com

Competitions

10 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

News & Views

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 11

Popstar Recording Parties

Essex’s premier professional recording studio probably have the biggest and the best pop star recording facilities available.

Children aged 7 years plus can record professionally produced CDs in a real studio.

Invite your friends and experience your popstar dream! Packages start from £90 and include: Photo shoot, your own microphone/headphones (its easy as the words of your chosen songs appear on a giant screen), over 20,000 songs.

Everybody leaves with a CD. After recording it’s party time in the disco, buffet/limo hire available (possible extra cost). Parties are tailored to your individual needs. Up to 30 people can be accommodated and there is a viewing area for families. A range of occasions can be hosted including adult parties, hen parties or just parties! Recent clients : X factor. Sky TV. BBC TV. Watch a video on the website: www.singingparty.co.uk 01268 572482 open 7 days a week

12 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Animal Workshops Mobile Zoo

Bored of the same old parties? Be the envy of your friends and book Animal Workshops Mobile Zoo for an exotic and domestic animal encounter for your party!

You’ll get the chance to meet their scaly, slimy and furry friends, everything from frogs and meerkats to hedgehogs and snakes! There is a range of animals to suit everyone!

This amazing selection comes to your home or venue, so you can get up close and hands-on with the animals. There are packages to suit every budget, which can include games, goody bags, party food and even an animal cake!

For full details please visit www.animalworkshop.co.uk or call 07790 465 266.

Let’s Party

Laser Mayhem Laser Tag Parties Laser Mayhem is the place to take the kids for a great day out. What can be more fun than running around playing outdoor Laser Tag in Call of Duty-themed playing areas with a real Russian 38 tonne battle tank, armoured personnel carriers, planes, helicopters, Land Rovers, forts and much, much more?

Mayhem is equipped with over twenty unique and exciting combat areas, with even a ‘Wild West’ and ‘World War II’ zone, as well as the traditional urban and woodland zones. Laser Mayhem has something to offer each party. You will be taken around by Mayhem’s highly trained staff and play a variety of different maps, using the latest in outdoor laser tag technology. You can even shoot an opponent up to 300m away!

Located on the border of Essex and London, Laser Mayhem is a renowned paintballing and laser tag company. Mayhem is gaining popularity with celebrities (including The Only Way Is Essex cast!), Saudi Arabian royalty, as well as everyday customers. Laser Mayhem has a designated area for birthday parties, where an assortment of refreshments can be served. Alternatively, in preparation for a high-tempo and busy day, customers also have the option of bringing their own food or can order pizza to the venue. Bespoke packages and lunch buffets are also available upon request for corporate events.

Laser Mayhem like to go the extra mile for their customers, they provide a free minibus pick-up and drop-off service for those travelling on the underground to the Central Line station, Theydon Bois.

With the Christmas holidays fast approaching, Laser Mayhem is holding a range of exciting action-packed special events. On Monday 29th December there will be a laser tag ‘Star Wars’ themed event running throughout the day, at a great price of £19.99 per person. Book early to avoid disappointment. See website for details.

With the intention and commitment to providing their customers with a memorable experience, Laser Mayhem are accustomed to receiving bookings for school and corporate events, birthday parties and many other occasions.

To see what Laser Mayhem can offer you and your party, please contact: Laser Mayhem, Pryors Farm, Ongar Road. Essex. RM4 1AA. You can call them on 01708 688 517 or visit their websites: www.laser-mayhem.co.uk or www.mayhem-paintball.co.uk

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 13

Let’s Party Space Kingdom

Recording Parties

Space Kingdom is an amazing, totally exciting kids indoor play centre where kids will walk in and say ‘wow!’

Looking for a party with a difference? How about a Soundmagic Studios Recording Party package! Go into a professional recording studio with a group of friends and create your own CD!

Junior Astronauts can climb a rocket, swing from ropes, discover tunnels or fly down a spectacular spiral or drop slide. Join your friends for a football match or speed around the go-kart track.

They provide the backing tracks and words to their selected pop songs and the guests sing along creating their very own recording. Party snacks or food with drinks are provided and all guests receive a party bag with a boxed CD which is specially packaged with photos of the group taken in the studio.

Little Space Cadets can relax, climb or slide in the Milky Way Centre.

Space Kingdom is the best place to have a party, or hire the whole Centre - perfect for your own celebration.

Go along today- for fun that’s out of this world- they’re ready to blast off! www.spacekingdom.co.uk 0845 5212809

Book Your Child’s Pamper Party at Headfirst

Fully trained hairdressers will give your child an experience they and their friends will never forget. For two hours the salon is yours. Bring your own party food and cake. They’ll provide the fun and sparkles!

Prices start from £13.50 per head, including a party bag. Minimum of eight girls per booking.

Headfirst offer: hair crimping, hair wraps, curling, plaiting, mini manicure, mini make-up, glitter, tattoos, beading station and lots more!

Contact Headfirst for more information on 01206 820566, headfirsthair@googlemail.com or visit www.headfirsthair.co.uk

14 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

For details of packages, call Steve or Victoria at Soundmagic Studios on 01376 501313 or visit our website at www.recordingparties.co.uk

Let’s Party Make It Special With Stagecoach Parties Colchester

Welcome to the magical mysteries of “Stagecoach Parties Colchester” where they will take your child on a roller coaster ride through their imagination and land them safely back home with a bulging bag of amazing party memories!

Whether they want to be fairies, princesses, pirates or superheroes, there’s a Stagecoach Party for everyone! Their parties range from a 2-hour creative drama, dance and singing party for 4-10 year olds to a spine-chilling Murder Mystery evening experience for 11-16 year olds.

Choose the date and time, then sit back and relax, as Stagecoach will do allthe entertaining.

Their trained party hosts will arrive in colourful, themed costumes loaded with props, balloons, stickers and prizes!

From magical mermaids tonoble knights, jungle explorers to West End musical stars and everything in-between, they will make sure your children have a party they’ll remember forever.

All you need to remember is the camera!

For further information, please call Stagecoach Colchester on 0845 603 0880 or visit www.stagecoach-parties.co.uk

Make your child’s next birthday the most memorable yet!

Enjoy 90 minutes playing in the fabulous four tiered play frame and then tuck into a tasty birthday tea in one of the party room afterwards. You will have a party host to meet, greet & ensure your party runs smoothly.

Your party will have an appearance from our own mascot swoop and the birthday child will receive a free months membership after the party to relive the great fun they had! From £8.95pp. Ultimate party add ons are available for a little extra. Be a real VIP with exclusive private hire for all your friends & family to celebrate in style From £165 for 2 hours hire.

To book please visit www.littlekingfishers.co.uk or call 01787 375656.

Other party options include splash parties and private hire pool parties for great splashing fun! www.ssleisure.co.uk 01787 375656

www.kidaround.biz •Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 15

Let’s Party Theatricool - offer great value unforgettable birthday parties, starring your child, at a venue of your choice.

Call Sally on 07736 713909 Essex Wildlife Trust Abberton Reservoir Themed parties exploring

the nature reserve, including fairy, detective and bug-hunting parties.

01206 738172 alic@essexwt.org.uk

Essex Wildlife Trust Fingringhoe Wick Go wild with a party at

Fingringhoe Wick nature reserve! Loads of themes including bushcraft, explorers, pirates, dinosaurs and more.

Call 01206 729 678 or email hannahe@essexwt.org.uk

ACTIVITY PARTIES

Action Park, Party Kids Quad bike

parties, army-themed parties, wristband parties, Hagglund troop carrier, target paintball, motorcross, high ropes course and more. Age 6+. On the A127.

0844 683 0675 www.actionpark.co.uk Email: info@actionpark.co.uk

Animal Workshops Exotic and pet

animal encounters for parties, schools, activity workshops, sensory sessions and more! Call 07790 465266 every day! www.animalworkshops.co.uk

CSI Parties Brand new CSI parties for 7yrs+. Be a crime scene investigator, collect evidence, find fingerprints and identify the offender.

Call Peter on 07974 940265 visit www.csi4aday.com or email pwhent@aol.com

Laser Mayhem Play real ‘Call of Duty’ missions based around the computer game. Hide behind real Russian battle tanks, planes and helicopters using Laser Tag equipment. 01708 688517 www.laser-mayhem.co.uk

Runaround Kids Exciting fun-filled active parties for boys & girls. Parachute play, ball games, team activities, traditional party games & much more.

Kids entertained so you can relax! tracy@runaroundkids.co.uk 07910 212480 www.runaroundkids.co.uk

Best Western Ivy Hill Fun-filled

SD Martial Arts Energetic fun for boys

Aladdin’s cave on North Hill, Colchester, housing a wide range of traditional toys, gifts, partyware, sweetcones and balloons. 01206 764115 www.piratesandprincesses.co.uk

and girls. Gladiator ring, sumo suits, padded swords & shields. Free class for each guest. 01206 860008 www.sd-martialarts.co.uk

SoundMagic Studios For details

Space Kingdom “For fun that’s out of this world!” The perfect indoor play centre for every party & celebration.

Age 0-12. 01255 435408 www.spacekingdom.co.uk fun@spacekingdom.co.uk Stagecoach Parties Colchester is now offering themed dance, drama and singing parties for 4-16 year olds. For more information, call Caroline Maxwell on 0845 603 0880

Little Scrummers Rugby Exciting tag

Kimmy’s Mobile Petting Zoo

rugby themed parties for 2-9yr olds with games, prizes and much more!

07738 591232 www.littlescrummers.com

Popstar Recording Parties

children age 7 years plus can record professionally produced CDs in a real studio. Invite your friends and experience your own popstar dream!

Packages start from £90. www.singingparty.co.uk 01268 572482

The new party on the block!

A real CSI party managed by experienced investigators and forensic scientists. Boys and girls describe it as “their best party ever” “Just brilliant” “exciting””memorable” Partygoers attend a crime scene in their CSI suits-collect evidence- search and recover stolen property - and work out and identify which of the 6 suspects is guilty.

Parents can wait and have free tea and coffee and photograph their investigators in action.

Each child gets a goody bag Cost £100 for 6 children: £162 for 6 to 12children: and an additional £10 per child thereafter. Maximum 36.

To book a CSI party or for more information, call Peter on: 07974 940265 or visit their website: www.csi4aday.com

16 •Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

PARTY SUPPLIES

Pirates & Princesses A 500 year old

of recording parties, contact Steve or Victoria on 01376 501313 www.recordingparties.co.uk

Little Kingfishers Play Centre

Affordable party packages for children up to 10 years. 4-tiered play frame.

Enjoy a leisure pool party with waves, slides and inflatables. Kingfisher Leisure Centre. 01787 375656 www.ssleisure.co.uk

children’s parties. Room hire starts from £150. Tasty and fun menus. Suitable for children up to 12 years old. Call 01277 355111 for details.

CREATIVE PARTIES

Fun, friendly and educational exotic animal encounters for schools, fun days and parties. 07850 427013 www.kimmyszoo.co.uk

PARTY PLACES

Audley End Miniature Railway

Now offer children’s parties!

Packages including catering available.

01799 542134 www.audley-end-railway.co.uk

Advertise in our Let’s Party section from as little as £85 Call Kate on 01371 238071 to find out how.

KARATE PARTY

Hold your birthday party at SD School of Martial Arts!

Karate parties are two hours long and include: * Inflatable gladiator arena * Sumo suits * Obstacle course * Dodge ball * Games SD School provide two or three instructors who will take control. SD also provide the space, the decorations, the entertainment and the invitations. They even handle the mess!

There are no kitchen facilities but you are welcome to bring your own food and drink, or even order a takeaway delivery!

With free class passes for you and your guests, all you have to do is have fun! Throw ’em a party they’ll never forget!!

Contact SD School of Martial Arts to confirm availability and cost on 01206 860008 or email: info@sd-martialarts.co.uk

Education

www.kidaround.biz •Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 17

Kumon

Drop-in. Tuesdays 4.30pm-6.30pm, Saturdays 10am-12pm. Braintree Study Centre, St. Paul’s Parsonage.

Mrs Kunjan Pandya 01376 339009 braintree@kumoncentre.co.uk ENG MAT

BRAINTREE

Ace Tuition

Tuition for 5-16 year olds. Professional and experienced teachers in English and Maths. 11 Plus, GCSE and SATs preparation. Daytime tuition also available. 01206 570700 acetuition@hotmail.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SAT SCI SEN

CHELMSFORD

Ace Tuition

Tuition for 5-16 year olds. Professional and experienced teachers in English and Maths. Daytime classes available for home-schooled students.

Iain McKenzie 07780 506615 acetuition@hotmail.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SAT SCI SEN

CLACTON

Colchester Tutors

Tuition for 5-16 year olds. Professional and experienced teachers in English and Maths. 11 Plus, GCSE and SATs preparation. Daytime tuition also available. 73a Station Road.

Iain McKenzie 01255 688896 acetuition@hotmail.co.uk

First Class Learning

Ace Tuition

ENG ICT LAN MAT SAT SCI SEN

COLCHESTER

Ace Tuition

Tuition for 5-16 year olds. Professional and experienced teachers in English and Maths. Daytime classes available for home-schooled students. Unit 3, Tollgate East, Stanway CO3 8RQ. Iain McKenzie 01206 570700 acetuition@hotmail.co.uk ENG ICT LAN MAT SAT SCI SEN

Excellent results achieved in 11+, Maths, English, reading, catch-up, SATs and GCSE preparation. Individual and group lessons available. 1st group lesson free. Kate Zepeda M.A., M.Sc, 07952 645185 katezepeda@gmail.com 11+ ENG MAT SAT SCI SEN Tuition for children aged from 6-16 years in English, Maths and Science.

Mason Rd (behind The Range), Lorraine McKenzie 01206 570700 colchester@firstclasslearning.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT

Heathcote Tutors

11+, entrance exam and maths tuition.

Roger Ashford 01206 272789 www.11plusessex.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SAT

Anna Spurgeon BA Hons. PGCE

11+ tuition. Very high pass rate. Small group sessions. Twelve years 11+ experience. Call Anna on 01206 738239/ 07500 339181 11+

11+

11 PLUS

ENG

ENGLISH

Boost your child’s brain power with music lessons

ICT

COMPUTING

Trumpet/Cornet, French Horn, Piano, Composing & Music Tech, Music Theory, ABRSM Grade exams, Singing, Stage & Band Performance, Studio Recording. Email: horntutorcolchester@hotmail.co.uk MUS

LAN LANGUAGES MAT

MATHEMATICS

MUS

MUSIC

SAT

SATs

SCI

SCIENCE

SEN

SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL

NEEDS

18 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Education Kumon

Drop-in sessions Tues, Weds, Fri 3:30pm-6:30pm, Thurs 3:30pm7:30pm and Sat 9:30am-12:30pm at Kumon Colchester North Study Centre, Highwoods Square, CO4 9SW. Ms Elaine Plumb. 01206 615458 www.kumon.co.uk/colchester-north ENG MAT

Magikats Colchester

English and Maths tuition from ages 4 to 16. Interactive workshops on Weds & Fri 4:30pm - 6:30pm.

Extension, consolidation and remedial programmes. Boosts confidence and subject skills. 01206 513490 www.magikats.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SAT SEN

Theatre Fun Academy

Audition coaching for children applying for independent school performance scholarships. High success rate with Sylvia Young entrance, St. Mary’s School & St. Joseph’s College drama scholarships Contact 07715 324267 theatrefun@hotmail.co.uk www.theatrefun.co.uk

DOVERCOURT

Kumon

Drop in sessions Mondays 3.305.30pm and Thursdays 3.30-5.30pm at Kingsway Community Church, 475-479 Main Road, Dovercourt, Harwich, CO12 4HZ 01255 552 056 dovercourt@kumoncentre.co.uk ENG MAT

HARLOW

Kumon

Drop-in sessions Mondays and Wednesdays 4pm-6pm at Harlow Study Centre, St John’s Arts and Recreation Centre, St John’s Walk.

Mrs Chizuru Cheung 01279 423345 Harlow@kumoncentre.co.uk ENG MAT

HARWICH

Ace Tuition

Community Centre, Barrack Lane.

Iain McKenzie 01255 688896 acetuition@hotmail.co.uk ENG LAN MAT SCI

WITHAM

SchoolServe

Educational consultancy offering individual tuition at Centre or home by registered teachers.

01376 502561 or 07751 074616 or 01621 858636 www.schoolserve.info 11+ ENG ICT LAN MAT SAT SCI SEN

Are you a tutor?

Why not advertise your services to over 120,000 families in Essex To find out how please call Kate on 01371 238 071 Don’t forget to say you found it in KidAround when calling advertisers, it really does help.

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 19

Christmas Light Switch-On Events Sat 29 Nov Lighting up Brentwood

12-6pm. Brentwood High Street.

Sat 29 Nov Christmas Event

Festive fun including real reindeers, children’s games, funfair, stalls and Christmas lights switch-on. 12-5pm.

Canvey Island town centre.

SS8 7RB. 01268 683971 www.canveyisland-tc.gov.uk Free Entry

Sun 30 Nov Food Fair and Christmas Lights Switch On

Market, street entertainers, carols. 10am-5pm. Christmas lights switch-on 4pm. Market Place, Saffron Walden. www.saffronwalden.gov.uk Free entry

Sun 30 Nov Fair and Christmas Lights Switch On

Christmas market, children’s rides, food, free craft workshop, live music, face painting, storytelling session. 10am4.30pm. Lights switch-on at 4.30pm. Braintree town centre.

Sun 30 Nov Christmas Lights Switch On

Live music and entertainment, Santa, elves from noon. Light switch on and fireworks at 4.30pm. Lion Walk Shopping Centre, Colchester CO1 1DX www.lionwalkshopping.com Sun 30 Nov

Christmas Lights Switch On

Fireworks finale. 3-5pm. Stage outside Shire Hall, Chelmsford.

Sat 6 Dec

Christmas Lights Switch On

Carols and Christmas lights switch-on (4.30pm). Hadleigh SS7 2PA Sat 6 Dec

Christmas Lights Switch On

Christmas lights switch-on at 6pm. Christmas Market from 8am-6pm. Local shops open until 8pm. Clacton Town Centre

Perrywood Garden Centre & Nurseries Christmas at Perrywood Garden Centre is always a special experience!

Children can enjoy visiting Father Christmas and his elves in his magical winter wonderland grotto from 20th November - 23rd December, visit their website for grotto opening hours. Entrance is only £6 per child, which includes a quality gift.

Their award winning Christmas displays never fail to inspire. This year’s themes include Nordic Noel, Copper & Blue and Elegance. Pick up hints and tips on dressing your Christmas table and shop their wide selection of beautiful Christmas wreaths.

With their huge range of indoor and outdoor lighting and the best quality Christmas trees (artificial or real) your house is sure to sparkle this Christmas!

Perrywood has hundreds of great gift ideas for all budgets including homeware, gardening tools, gift vouchers, specimen plants and planted gift baskets, you are sure to find something for all your loved ones!

All this browsing and shopping can be hungry work! So, why not sample some of the delicious festive home-cooked dishes served in the ever popular Coffee Shop, open every day. Also being offered at lunchtime on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays is a special Christmas roast turkey dinner and all the trimmings including roast potatoes, vegetables, pigs in blankets, cranberry and stuffing!

Why not book in for a special Afternoon Tea, served in the Terrace Room with panoramic views of the countryside. Enjoy a selection of sumptuous treats freshly made to order. Afternoon Tea gift vouchers are available and they make great Christmas presents!

Perrywood is open 7 days a week, Monday to Saturday 8.30am-5pm, Sunday 10am-4pm (browsing from 9.30am on Sundays) You can also shop their online store at www.perrywood.co.uk/shop.

Blackwells Farm Shop’s aim is to supply local people with local produce. Traditional farm produce from a real farm....

Situated at Herons Farm, Colne Road, Coggeshall, Blackwells have been farming there since the 1930’s. Blackwells Farm Shop was developed out of a passion to bring good quality food to everyone at reasonable prices. The majority of the stock is from within a 20 mile radius.

The Essex Sunshine Coast – Tendring Coast & Countryside

As we head into the cooler months, there is a lot to keep you occupied in and around the Essex Sunshine Coast covering Brightlingsea, Clacton-on-Sea, Dovercourt, Frinton-on-Sea, Harwich, Jaywick, Manningtree, Mistley, St Osyth and Walton-on-the-Naze.

A variety of indoor and outdoor activities to keep the family occupied to firework displays, festive shows to Christmas tree festivals and markets!

Accommodation ranges from holiday parks, bed and breakfasts to boutique and luxury hotels where prices remain competitive.

Easy links by road, train, coach, ferry and plane and the centre of London only an hour or so away make it an easily accessible destination. You can park for free in our Council run car parks (except Holland Haven and Walton-on-the-Naze) from 3pm to 8am.

For more information call 01255 686633 or visit www.essex-sunshine-coast.org.uk or “Like us” at Essex Sunshine Coast on Facebook.

Blackwells frequently host tasting days at the shop, inviting their customers to pop along and sample produce from local growers and suppliers.

Obviously Christmas is a big event at Blackwells, alongside the traditional poultry, they specialise in cooked hams, gammon joints and local beef for the Christmas festivities.

Blackwells also offer a great selection of Christmas hampers; these contain the best that Blackwells have to offer and can be tailored to your own requirements. The hampers are presented in either a practical wicker shopping basket or boxed. Gift tokens are also available, enabling the recipient to choose their own delights.

The vegetables are mainly grown by the Hill family at Tolleshunt D’arcy, delivered to Blackwells just hours after being freshly picked. Soft fruits come from Wickham St Paul, Sible Hedingham, Ardleigh, Great Bentley and Manningtree.

Within the farm shop there is a fully functioning kitchen; Mark, the Blackwells chef and his staff produce great ‘home made’ fayre; Meat pies, ready meals, desserts, cakes, sausage rolls, pasties etc. He will also make dishes of the customer’s choice. Mark also heads up Blackwells Catering Company, producing food for any occasion. He is more than happy to advise on menus........from a picnic to a banquet , a barbeque to a full blown hog roast!

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

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 21

Messy Christmas

Audley End Santa Special

Go down to the Audley End Miniature Railway and join in the festive fun.

Enjoy a 1 1/2 mile train ride to meet Santa and his helpers at his magical Grotto in the woods. Santa will meet with every child and present them with a very special gift! Treat yourself with a hot chocolate and marshmallows or even a mulled wine from the Signal Box Café! Suitable for all ages. Trains run from 11.00am – 3.45pm. Booking is highly recommended but not necessary!!

Please visit www.audley-end-railway.co.uk or call 01799 542134/510726

Enjoy some good quality fun this winter with HIKS They have a range of scooters and balance bikes which can help your children improve their balance, co-ordination and confidence. There’s also a rather cool range of animal helmets, pads and mini lights to help keep your little ones safe.

Pile up the leaves and let the children bounce through them on the funny-faced space hoppers.

Add a nest swing to your garden and hey presto, hours of fun in the good clean fresh air. Enjoy those magical times with HIKS. If you’re looking for something fun this Christmas visit www.hiks.co.uk Get an exclusive KidAround 10% discount by using the code: KIDAROUN

22 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Enjoy getting messy and having lots of fun at Bethel Church this festive season.

With storytime, Christmas arts and crafts, Christmas songs and lots of activities and games to keep everyone happy! You will need to take some old clothes or an apron - mess is guaranteed.

The event is on Sunday 30th November from 10:30am – 12:30pm and costs just 50p per person (cheap as parsnips). This event has been organised by volunteers from Bethel Church and Stanway Evangelical Church for the Stanway Community. So, show your community spirit and join in.

Throughout the year Bethel Church have many different events and messy times.

For more information visit www.bethelchurch.co/ or call 01206 510109

Christmas fun at Abberton Resevoir Nature Reserve and Visitor Centre Visit Essex Wildlife Trust’s Abberton Reservoir Nature Reserve and Visitor Centre, just outside Colchester, to enjoy a wide range of wild activities for children.

Go along and join in the festive fun at the Winter Wonderland on Saturday 20th December. Father Christmas will be in his magical-grotto.

Lots to make and do and refreshments around the log burner.

Advanced booking is essential for all our events 01206 738172 or by email abberton@essexwt.org.uk

Short Breaks in Leicestershire Gift Voucher Looking for world-class family fun, adventure activities for all the family, or theme parks excitement?

Maybe a journey back in time to stately homes and historic battlefields, city break experiences to remember, or renowned local food to sample.

The £129 priced Gift Voucher entitles you to one of the following Stay Play Explore short breaks in Leicestershire to be taken between 1st January 2015 - 31st December 2015: •

Stay Play Explore Family Fun - A family of four can visit three world class attractions from a choice of five and stay overnight at a top hotel with leisure facilities

•

Stay Play Explore Family Adventure Families choose three fun-packed adventure activities from a choice of five plus an overnight stay with breakfast

•

Stay Play Explore Gourmet Taste of Leicestershire - Two adults can savour three of five food and drink experiences, sampling the best renowned local produce and stay at a country hotel

•

Stay Play Explore Glorious Heritage - Pick three of five fascinating heritage sites to visit and discover over 500 years of history on this overnight break for two

•

Stay Play Explore City Break Experience - Two adults can enjoy three of five indulgent, entertaining or pampering experiences and stay overnight in a chic city hotel

•

King Richard III - choose three venues including afternoon tea from a selection of five and explore sites that are linked to King Richard III.

For more information and the full T&Cs about each of the Stay Play Explore short breaks please visit www.stayplayexplore.co.uk

Christmas at Lee Valley Park Farms

Get in the festive mood and book your chance to see Santa in his grotto at Lee Valley Park Farms.

The farm-tastic Santa event takes place on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 December as well as Saturday 20 December through to Tuesday 23 December.

The farms are open to visit even if you haven’t booked a slot to see Santa.

You will also get to meet our festive friends the reindeer and try your hand at all of the Christmas arts and crafts activities on offer.

Book online at www.visitleevalley.org.uk/farms now so you don’t miss your santa session. Alternatively you can email farms@ leevalleypark.org.uk or call 01992 892 781 to book.

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 23

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas Look forward to a season of Christmas festivities at Hylands House & Estate in Chelmsford.

Watch Cinderella, Buttons, the Ugly Sisters and the Fairy Godmother in our family pantomime, showing in the Grand Pavilion. And why not join an adventurous safari around the estate? Learn about the natural environment and create your very own nature scrapbook to take home. For the very young this winter, keep warm with our Tuesday Toddle - a guided walk around the estate.

Fill your Stocking at the Festive Fair

Come along to the Christmas Shopping Fair at Hylands House & Estate Why not sample the succulent Hog Roast from Giggly Pig, pick up a sparkling mini tree from TwigglemasTree or collect a unique fused glass decoration from Molten Wonky’s stall? Meet Panto characters, listen to live music and enjoy traditional children’s rides throughout the event.

On Saturday 6th to Sunday 7th December, simply turn up and gain free entry to experience crafts, gifts, decorations, fine foods and drink. Over 160 stalls will extend across the estate, within the beautifully decorative Hylands House and inside the brand new Grand Pavilion. Go on a traditional horse and carriage ride, see the house and stables decoratively lit up after dark or drop in on Santa and his Elves in the grotto. The Grotto will run across four days. The first sessions available must be pre-booked and will run on Thursday 4th and Friday 5th December. The Grotto will also be present on both days of the Christmas Shopping Fair for you to turn up, with no booking required.

For more information visit: chelmsford.gov.uk/ChristmasAtHylands

24 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Your essential guide to Christmas in Colchester

Thinking about shopping, festive things to do and where to get that perfect present with Christmas fast approaching? Our guide to Christmas in Colchester has it all…

Start the season with Colchester’s Christmas light switch on, at 4.30pm on Sunday 30 November. Join thousands to delight as snowflake lights add a touch of magic along the High Street, Head Street and Crouch Street.

On Christmas late night shopping evenings many shops open until 9pm. Starting Wednesday 3 December they run right up to Christmas Eve, perfect for well planned shoppers and those doing a last minute dash for a bargain!

Explore the historic Shops on the Walls, packed with independent shops and boutiques, and just a short walk from the High Street. Or why not pop in to the Visitor Information Centre for a range of unique Colchester-themed gifts. Then round it off in Culver Square, Lion Walk and the High Street, all home to a host of big name stores and favourite brands.

Take advantage of a special Christmas parking offer and the great deals available year-round when driving to the town.

Park for free after 3pm in all town centre surface car parks, every late night shopping Wednesday from 3 December until Christmas. Save big money on other days too. Three hours from £3.30 in St Mary’s, just three minutes walk from the High Street. Or park all day for £2.50 Monday to Saturday and only 50p on Sundays, at selected sites.

Visit www.colchester.gov.uk/parking for all car park locations and deals.

On Wednesday 10 December the whole family can get in the festive spirit as Colchester Castle welcomes Christmas with a free open evening, market and special visit from Father Christmas. Children can meet Santa for £3.50 each, which includes asmall gift.

Join in the evening of merriment, with free entry 3 – 8.30pm. Carols, an outdoor market to stock up on festive treats, fun rides (charges apply) and entertainment, will create a winter wonderland. Plus drop by Hollytrees Museum for treasure trails and Christmas craft making. Check out www. cimuseums.org.uk for details.

The town also offers a great choice of eateries, from coffee shops and cafes to bars and restaurants. Treat yourself to a much-deserved drink or a bite to eat. Or enjoy a host of events across Colchester. Full ‘what’s on’ details are available at www.visitcolchester.com. St Mary’s also has the perfect parking option for evenings out, any day just £2 after 7pm.

To find out more about Christmas in Colchester and make this a Christmas to remember, visit www.visitcolchester.com

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 25

Traditional Farm - Fresh Turkeys And Pork From Essex Family Farm Great Garnetts Farm produce traditional turkeys exclusively for the Christmas market. Turkeys are rich with delicious flavour whilst maintaining the highest possible standards of welfare and animal husbandry when rearing and feeding. The free range bronze turkeys have access to the paddock from dawn till dusk whilst the white turkeys are reared in Pole Barns with natural daylight. Their turkeys will not disappoint and will provide your family with an extra special Christmas meal.......

The pork is rich in good old fashioned flavour with crackling just as it should be. All bacon and gammons are cured on site and smoked over a combination of oak and beech chips.

In fact Great Garnetts is the one stop farm shop for all your Christmas meats... www.greatgarnetts.co.uk

26 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Winter Fun At Fingringhoe The fun at Fingringhoe doesn’t stop because the weather has got colder! Explore the reserve using the family nature trail and get some healthy fresh air - they have a wood burner and hot drinks available so you can warm up afterwards. Their birthday parties are available throughout the winter too and several feature a warming campfire, so even winter born children can enjoy an outdoor celebration. December brings Christmas events with a Christmas Fun Day for children and wreath making for the grown-ups.

Stargazing nights for families will feature in January, while February half term is packed with activities from discovering owl pellets to bushcraft.

For more information call 01206 729678 or visit: www.essexwt.org.uk

Get your skates on…

Sunday 21st December This December, we have something very special coming to Ufford Park Woodbridge. The perfect chance to get the family together and come to what will be the ‘coolest’ place in Woodbridge.

Soak up the festive atmosphere between 2pm and 9pm and stroll around the Christmas stalls where you will be able to pick up those last minute stocking fillers.

At this free to enter event, they will also have a fabulous ice-skating rink.... fun for all ages!

If you start to feel peckish, join them in The Meeting Place Bar and warm yourself up with the homemade mince pies or a glass of mulled wine.

Ice skating prices: Children (toddler - 12 yrs) £3.50, Adults £5.00, Family £10.00 (1 adult & 2 children) and Family £12.50 (2 adults and 2 children).

Tickets for ice-skating must be pre-booked and paid in advance.

Festive family fun at Barnplants Garden Centre

Visit Barnplants Garden Centre this Christmas and take a trip on ‘Barnie the Train’ through their Magical Christmas Tree Forest. Look out for reindeer amongst the trees, and polar bears, penguins and other enchanting animals in the snow filled winter wonderland.

The adventure continues when Barnie drops his passengers off at the station as mischievous elves then guide visitors to Santa’s Grotto. Here the children can make a bag of Rudolph’s favourite food to take home, which can be scattered in the garden on Christmas Eve to guide him on his way!

It’s then time to meet Santa himself in his Grotto where he will be giving all the children a present (yummy mince pies and mulled wine for the adults!).

There will be hundreds of Christmas trees to choose from, as well as a large range of Christmas decorations to make your home look truly festive!

Christmas shopping is made easy with a wide range of gifts for everyone!

You can then recharge your batteries at The Coffee Shop which is open 7 days a week offering excellent breakfasts, lunches and delicious cakes.

Make Christmas special!

Barnie runs every Saturday and Sunday from 22nd November to 21st December and also on 22nd & 23rd December. Please call 01206 213380 for times and prices to book your magical ride!

Please call our events team to purchase tickets or for more information 01394 383555 ext.300

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 27

Diary Dates Thur 1 Jan

New Year’s Day Walk 3 mile ranger-led walk, followed by refreshments. Suitable all ages. Children must be accompanied. 11am start. High Woods Country Park. 01206 853588. www.colchester.gov.uk/countrypark

Sat 10 & Sat 17 Jan

BRAINTREE Sat 6 & Sun 7, Sat 13 & Sun 14, Sat 20 & Sun 21 Dec Christmas at Cressing Temple Meet Father Christmas and his real reindeer friends and see the elves at work. 11am-3pm (pre-book time slot). £9.99/child (includes a prize and one adult ticket). Cressing Temple Barns, CM77 8PD. 0845 6037624 www.cressingtemple.org.uk

7th, 13th, 14th, 20th & 21st Dec

Steam with Santa Santa travels on board a luxurious Pullman train, with a present for every child. Various times. £10/ £9/ £3.50.

Colne Valley Railway, Castle Hedingham, Essex 01787 461174 www.colnevalleyrailway.co.uk BE

Sat 6 Dec

Christmas Fair Santa’s Grotto, fete games, crafts, face painting, stalls, refreshments. 2.304.30pm. Great Bradfords Junior School, Marlborough Rd, CM7 9LW Free entry

Sat 13 Dec

A Very British Christmas Learn all about British traditions, explore Victorian traditions and how they are still practiced every year. 11am-12pm.

Braintree Museum, CM7 3HW

Sat 20 Dec

Wishing Tree Create festive decorations to decorate the museum’s Christmas tree. Make a wish and hang them on the tree. 11am12pm. Braintree Museum, CM7 3HW

Sat 20 Dec

Stargazing Join the North Essex Astronomy Group and discover the half moon. The event is subject to clear weather. 6-9pm.

Great Notley Country Park, CM77 7FS Free Event

COLCHESTER Sat 22 Nov – Tue 23 Dec

Santa’s Train & Grotto Take a magical winter wonderland train ride on Barnie to Santa’s Grotto (every Sat & Sun from 22nd Nov to 21st Dec and also on 22nd & 23rd Dec).

Barnplants Garden Centre, Turkey Cock Lane, Stanway. 01206 213380 www.barnplants.co.uk BE

Fri 5 Dec

Christmas Fair Grotto, games, raffle, hot food, mulled wine, carol singing and gift stalls. 3-5pm.

Langham Primary School, School Road, CO4 5PB. 07443 475190 Free Event

Sun 7, 14 & 21 Dec

A Day Out With Thomas and Santa Includes rides, meet Santa (additional cost), storytelling time.10am-4pm. Adult: £14; Child (2-15yrs): £10; under 2s free.

East Anglian Railway Museum, Chappel and Wakes Colne Station. 01206 242524 www.earm.co.uk/events/santa.

Sun 7 Dec

Christmas Gift Show Christmas gifts, face painting, glitter tattoos, appearances from Frozen characters (photo opportunities avail.).

10am-2pm. Entry: Adult: £1 (Under 14s FREE). The Venture Centre, Lawford, CO11 2JE

Wed 10 Dec

Open Evening and Market Listen to carols, meet Santa and receive a gift (£3.50), and visit the market. Plus refreshments. 3-8.30pm. Colchester Castle Free Event

Sat 13 Dec

Baby & Child First Aid Course Learn key first aid skills in 2 hours that could one day save your child’s life. 10am – 12pm. £24/person, concessions available.

0844 243 6093 (option 1) or email firstaid.colchester@nct.org.uk. BE

Sun 14 Dec

Reindeer Dash Walk or run 1km or 5km. Registration: £5 for 3 – 13 yr olds; £10 for over 14s (until 8th Dec). Receive antlers, a flashing nose and a badge upon completing the event. Registration on the day: £7.50 for 3 – 13 yr olds: £10 for over 14s.

Colchester Castle Park, CO1 1UG www.sthelenahospice.org.uk/reindeer14 BE

Thur 18 Dec

Tree of Memories Remembrance Service An opportunity over the busy festive period to take time to celebrate loved ones in a special service. Myland Hall, Barncroft Close, Highwoods, CO4 9JU www.sthelenahospice.org.uk/event/ tree-of-memories-remembranc-servicecolchester/ Free Event

Sat 20 Dec

Winter Wonderland Visit Santa in his magical grotto (£3); Christmas trail around the reserve; festive arts and crafts. Accompanied children of all ages welcome. 10.30am2pm. £6/child +1 free adult per child; additional adults £3/person. Abberton Reservoir, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE

Tue 23 Dec

Christmas Fun Day Complete the trail, go orienteering, make bird feeders or Christmas crafts.

10.30am – 3pm. £10/family, children must be accompanied. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678.

28 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Starry Starry Night Space themed activities, crafts and experiments. If the sky is clear, learn how to stargaze without expensive equipment. 4.30-6.30pm. £5/child, must be accompanied. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678. BE

Sat 17 Jan

Baby & Child First Aid Course Learn key first aid skills in 2 hours that could one day save your child’s life.

10am – 12pm. £24/person, concessions available. 0844 243 6093 (option 1) or email firstaid.colchester@nct.org.uk. BE

Sat 14 Feb

Baby & Child First Aid Course Learn key first aid skills in 2 hours that could one day save your child’s life. 10am – 12pm. £24/person, concessions available.

0844 243 6093 (option 1) or email firstaid.colchester@nct.org.uk.

BE

Mon 16 Feb

Brambly Hedge Winter Adventures Follow the lives of the mice of Brambly Hedge on some winter adventures.

Bring packed lunch. Accompanied children of all ages welcome.10.30am2pm. £5/child + 1 adult; additional adults £3/person. Abberton Reservoir, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE

Tue 17 Feb

Stick At It What can you do with a stick? A whole day of sticky fun and games. Bring a packed lunch. Accompanied children of all ages welcome. 10.30am-2pm. £5/ child + 1 adult; additional adults £3/ person. Abberton Reservoir, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE

Wed 18 Feb

Love Your Birds As part of National Nestbox Week make simple bird homes and feeders. £5/child, must be accompanied. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678. BE

CHELMSFORD Sat 6 Dec

Make a Christmas Card Add sparkle to your special Christmas card. All ages. 10am – 4pm. £1. Essex Police Museum, HQ, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum

Sat 6 – Wed 24 Dec

Santa Specials 1.30-5.30pm. Adult: £11, Child: £8.

Mangapps Railway Museum, Burnham on Crouch CM0 8DQ.

Sat 6 & Sun 7 Dec

Winter Wonderland Over 160 stalls, Santa’s grotto, food and drink. 11am – 7pm.

Hylands House CM2 8WQ. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/christmasfair

Sat 6 & Sun 7 Dec

Magic of Christmas Glue and glitter Christmas workshop plus listen to stories with Father Christmas. 10am - 3pm. Adults £8.75, Children £6.40. RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Rettendon, CM3 8ET. 0845 265 8071

Sat 6 Dec

Festive Fayre Stalls, Santa visits and gives presents from the Clock Tower grotto, brass band plays carols. Burnham on Crouch.

Sat 13 Dec

A Christmas Crime Trail Solve the crime and learn to keep safe this winter. All ages. 10am – 4pm. £1.

Essex Police Museum, HQ, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum

Sat 20 Dec

Meet Santa and Make a Snow Globe Don’t queue for Santa! Make a snow globe whilst you wait! All ages. 10am – 4pm. £2. Essex Police Museum, HQ, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum

Sat 24 Jan

Mum2mum Market Nearly New Sale. 2-4pm. Adults £2, children free. Hylands School, Hatfield Grove, CM1 3DF. Www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

Sat 14 Feb

Scarecrow Making Basic scarecrow kit provided - bring the clothes to dress it! 10.15am, 11.45am or 1.15pm. Adults £9.85, Children £4.95 plus £8 per scarecrow kit. RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Rettendon, CM3 8ET. 0845 265 8071 BE

Mon 16 – Fri 20 Feb

Wakey Wakey Wildlife Art and craft activities with a wildlife theme. 11am – 3pm. Adults £9.85, Children £6.95. RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Rettendon, CM3 8ET. 0845 265 8071

Wed 18 Feb

Criminal photo shoot Try our Victorian stocks and have your photo taken as evidence! All ages. 10am – 4pm. £3. Essex Police Museum, HQ, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum

EPPING & HARLOW Sat 6 Dec - Sat 31 Jan 2015

Winter wonderland Come along and see the Forest captured in its winter wonder.

10am-5pm..The View, 6 Rangers Road, Chingford, London E4 7QH 020 7332 1911 (phone to check for cancellation) Free Event

Sat 6 & Sun 7 Dec

A-maze-ing Christmas Experience Discover the Christmas maze and gardens and search for Santa. Plus crafts, magic shows, tractor rides and guided illuminated moonlight walk.

10am-4pm. Adult: £6.50, Child: (2-16 yrs) £3.50; under 1s free. Capel Manor Gardens, Bullsmoor Lane, EN1 4RQ

Sat 6 Dec

Roydon Christmas Market It’s back for a second year! This event will have a festive and Christmas wonderland feel. Mulled wine, mince pies and turkey rolls are just a few of the treats we have in store St Peter’s Church Hall, Harlow Road, Roydon, Essex CM19 5HF

Sat 13 & Sun 14; Sat 20 - Tue 23 Dec

Farm-tastic Santa Christmas arts and crafts. Book your place to visit Santa. 10am-3pm. First child £12, additional children £10. Lee Valley Park Farms, Waltham Abbey, EN9 2EF. 01992 892 781 www.visitleevalley.org.uk BE

Diary Dates Sat 13 Dec

Parndon Wood Nature Reserve Santa’s Grotto Go and see Santa in his grotto and take part in the Christmas fun. 11:00 to 15:00 £3 per child 01279 430005 or email: lauren.hull@ecco.org.uk Parndon Wood Nature Reserve is run by ECCO. www.ecco.org.uk BE

Sat 20 & Sun 21 Dec

Santa Cruise Jump aboard for mulled wine, mince pies and carols, plus a present from Santa. To book call 01992 462 085.

10.30am, 12.30pm & 2.30pm. £8.50.

Broxbourne Riverside Moorings, EN10 6LX. 01992 462 085 www.leevalleyboats.co.uk BE

Sat 14 & Sun 15 Feb

Opening Weekend See who’s sleeping in the stables, plodding around the paddocks and what we’ve been up to over winter.

10am-5pm. Normal admission prices apply. Lee Valley Park Farms, Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey, EN9 2EF. 01992 892 781 www.visitleevalley.org.uk

IPSWICH Thur 27 Nov

Ladies’ Festive Charity Shopping Evening An evening of Christmas shopping from 7pm. £5/person (includes drink and canapes). Half of entry fee donated to Marie Curie. Ufford Park, Yarmouth Road, Melton, IP12 1QW. 01394 383555. www.uffordpark.co.uk

Sun 14 Dec

Victorian Christmas Meet Victorian characters, learn traditional dances and make simple crafts (small charge). Meet Santa and receive a gift (£3.50). 10am-4pm.

Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich Free Event

Sun 21 Dec

Fri 20 Feb

Meet John Constable Meet young artist John Constable and find out about his life. Drop-in: 10.30, 11.30, 12.30, 2pm, 3pm.

Christchurch Mansion Free Event

TENDRING Fri 28 Nov

Christmas Bazaar Over 25 stalls including tombolas, games, crafts, BBQ, refreshments, a huge range of second hand toys. Entry: Adult: £1, Children free. 5.30-8pm.

Holland Park Primary School, Clacton on Sea, CO15 6NG 01255 422942

Sat 29 Nov

Christmas Gift Fair Lots Of Xmas present ideas, Body Shop, Jamie At Home, Scentsy Wickfree Candles, Jewellery for kids & adults, keepsakes & cards, cakes & treats, pre-Loved football boots & kit, Usborne books, fantastic raffle, refreshments & Lots More! 10am - 2pm 50p Adults, Chidren Free-.Methodist Church Hall, Gt Bentley, CO7 8PQ -

Mon 1 Dec-

Make A Wish Christmas Party Tombola, raffles, children’s entertainer, music. 6pm - 11pm £5 adults children £2.50 babies under 1 go free. Tickets will be on sale from 1st October.

Parkeston Railway Club, Hamilton Street, Parkeston Quay, Dovercourt Bay, CO12 4PQ BE

Sat 6 Dec

Christmas Celebration Concert Harwich Sing are joined by The Colchester Band for a Christmas Celebration Concert. 7.30pm Tickets, Adults £6, Children £5, Under 5’s Free.

Pay On The Door. St Nicholas Church, Church St, Harwich. Contact Clare on 07554 423613

Sat 6 & Sun 7 Dec

Ice Skating and Christmas Market Market stalls, mulled wine and mince pies. Ice skating time slots are limited and must be pre-booked. Child £3.50, Adult £5, Family (1 adult & 2 children) £10 and Family (2 adults & 2 children) £12.50. Ufford Park, Yarmouth Road, Melton, IP12 1QW. 01394 383555. www.uffordpark.co.uk

Christmas Tree Festival Park & Ride, Christmas shop, music, refreshments. 10am-6pm. Entry: £3.50, Under 16s free. All Saints’ Church, Brightlingsea, CO7 ORZ. 7th December 10am - 2pm - Christmas Fair - The Venture Centre, Lawford Bookings are now being taken for Stalls. motherandchildrensfair@gmail.com www.canddevents.co.uk

Tue 17 – Thur 19 Feb

Wed 17 Dec

Animal Encounters Meet different creatures each day and learn more about their natural skills, abilities and habitats. 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 3pm. £3 per child and adult; Under 2s free.

Ipswich Museum BE

Tue 17 Feb

Animal Yoga Short taster classes, taking you on a journey through the jungle! Suitable all ages. 11am, 12pm, 2pm, 3pm.

Ipswich Museum Free Event

Tree of Memories Remembrance Service An opportunity over the busy festive period to take time to celebrate loved ones in a special service. Tendring Day Centre, Jackson Road, CO15 1JP. www.sthelenahospice.org.uk/event/treeof-memories-remembrance-serviceclacton/ Free Event

UTTLESFORD Sun 30 Nov

Christmas Fayre Stalls, Santa’s Grotto, face painting, games and crafts, refreshments, music.

12-3pm. Great Easton Primary School, CM6 2DR

Sat 6 & Sun 7, Sat 13 & Sun 14, Wed 17 – Wed 24 Dec

Christmas Special Train Enjoy a short train ride to meet Santa and his helpers at his magical Grotto in the woods. Receive a present.

Refreshments. Suitable all ages. Trains from 11am – 3.45pm. Audley End Miniature Railway, CB11 4JB .

01799 542134 www.audley-end-railway.co.uk BE

Sat 6 & Sun 7 Dec

Father Christmas Trail Follow the magical trail through the woods to visit Father Christmas in his grotto. 10.30am-2.30pm. £6.50.

Hatfield Forest. 0844 249 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hatfieldforest BE

Sat 6 & Sun 7 Dec

Victorian Christmas Step back in time as the house is prepared for Christmas. Traditional stalls, Victorian street theatre, music and rides.

Audley End House, CB11 4JF. www.english-heritage.org.uk/audleyend

Sun 7

Dickensian Christmas Shopping Day Stalls including: gifts, decorations, homeware, clothes, local crafts, gifts & much more. Live entertainment with a mama mia food market & a Santas Grotto. 11am – 3pm. Great Dunmow Town CM6 Free Event

Sat 13 & Sun 14 Dec

Christmas Tree Festival Decorated Christmas trees, stalls, refreshments and lunchtime music.

11am - 4pm. Holy Trinity Church, Littlebury, CB11 4TD. www.littleburyparishcouncil.org.uk Free Event

Sat 13th Dec

Farmers Market 8 stalls selling reasonably priced fresh Local Produce, from a wide range of local food and craft producers, as well as a Cafe serving light refreshments including Rare Breed Pork sausages in a roll. Please come early to avoid disappointment! Memorial Hall, Felsted.

Free Event

Sat 13 Dec

Flitch Green Academy Christmas Fair Go along and meet Father Christmas and other special guests. Stalls, fun fair rides, live music & dance and mulled wine. 3pm – 6pm. Flitch Green Academy, Tanton Road, Dunmow, CM6 3GG Free Event

Sun 14 Dec

Christmas Fair Santa’s Grotto, stalls, live music, refreshments, fun and games. 12-3pm.

St Mary’s School, Saffron Walden, CB10 1BQ.

Sun 21 Dec

Santa Cycle Treasure Hunt In aid of Farleigh Hospice. Join the cycle ride around country lanes over an 18 mile course, solving clues along the way.

You need to book on-line at eventbrite and search for Santa Cycle. Start at 9.30 for aprox. 3 hours. Entry: £8.00/ £8.00/ £22.00. Ashfields Carriage and Polo Club, Gt Canfield. BE

Mon 23 – Fri 27 Feb

Victorian Games Galore!

From skittles to quoits, croquet to chess, play like a Victorian as you step back in time. 10am-6pm. Adult £15.40 / Child £9.20. Audley End House, CB11 4JF. www.english-heritage.org.uk/audley

Sun 22 Feb 2015, Sun 1 Mar

Snowdrop Sunday Go and see the wonderful display of snowdrops in the woodland and Bosquet areas of the Gardens.. 11.30am - 4pm (last entry 3pm) Adults £3.50, Children Free & Guided Tours £1.50.

01371 876979 Gardens of Easton Lodge, Little Easton, Great Dunmow, Essex, Essex CM6 2BB BE

KEY TO DIARY DATES: BE = Booking Essential Free Event = No charge To the best of our knowledge this information is correct at the time of going to press. To avoid disappointment, please check with the event holder before setting off.

If you are holding an event for families and would like to include it in our Spring issue, please email the details to: diarydates@kidaround.biz

Wed 18 Feb

Family Art Room Work with our friendly artist to turn your ideas into a work of art. Suitable all ages. Drop-in 10.30 – 12.30pm or 1.30pm – 3.30pm. £3. Ipswich Art School

Thur 19 & Fri 20 Feb

Printing Workshops Learn more about John Constable’s work by designing and creating your own printed landscape. All materials provided. 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 3pm. £3. Christchurch Mansion BE

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 29

Festive Entertainment

Panto Listings BURY ST EDMUNDS 28th Nov – 11th Jan Cinderella Cinderella and her father live in the dilapidated Hardup Hall helped by the ever-reliable Buttons, and watched over by a Fairy Godmother.

Various times/prices. Theatre Royal 01284 769505

CHELMSFORD 3rd Dec – 4th Jan

Peter Pan

An action-packed production featuring magnificent scenery, beautiful costumes, an abundance of comedy and even characters flying above the stage! Various times/ prices. Civic Theatre 01245 606505 10th Jan Cinderella Family pantomime. 2-4pm. £8.50.

Springfield Parish Centre, St. Augustine’s Way, CM1 6GX. 01245 464583. enquiries@springfieldpc.org.uk

IPSWICH

17th – 21st Dec Snow White on Ice Annual ice show spectacular provides festive entertainment for all the family. Various times/prices.

Riverside Ice & Leisure Centre, CM1 1FG. 01245 615089 www.chelmsford.gov.uk/iceshow

1st Dec – 31st Jan Beauty and the Beast An irresistible rock ‘n’ roll pantomime with rock, pop and soul songs. Age: 6yrs+. Various times/prices. New Wolsey Theatre 01473 295900 20th - 30th Dec Cinderella

CLACTON 13th Dec – 3rd Jan Jack and the Beanstalk A magical pantomime, full of laughter, fun & special effects.

Various times/prices. Princes Theatre 01255 686633

COLCHESTER

Polish those glass slippers, dust off that pumpkin and get ready to have a ball! Suitable all ages. Various times/prices. Regent Theatre 01473 433100

SUDBURY 12th – 28th Dec Little Red Riding Hood

5th Dec – 11th Jan Cinderella Does Cinderella’s slipper fit? Will Buttons get those wings? He needs your help to save his best friend!

Age: 3yrs+. Various times/prices.

Mercury Theatre 01206 573948

A traditional family pantomime.

Various times/prices. Quay Theatre, CO10 2AN. 01787 374745

The Basil Brush Show - Boom! Boom!

Basil Brush is a star with an outstanding ability to entertain and make people of all ages laugh and smile. He’s cheeky, irreverent, charming, naughty, quick-witted, scheming and foxy, but at the same time he’s kind, caring and affectionate.

Basil has celebrated over 50 years in entertainment and The Basil Brush Show on BBC TV has been seen by millions of viewers all over the globe from 1968 through to today. The show was BAFTA nominated and voted best comedy show on TV. Now, Britain’s most loveable fox is back on the road along with his TV chum Mr Stephen (aka Chris Pizzey) and are coming to Clacton. Together they will take you on a journey of laughs, storytelling and song in a brand new specially written ‘live’ stage show packed with fun and excitement.

Come and join in the mayhem, along with Mr Stephen who is continually interrupted by naughty uncontrollable Basil!!

A show for all the family.

So in Basil’s words..”Boom Boom!! “ Don’t miss Basil’s show at the West Cliff Theatre, Clacton-onSea on Friday 20th February 2015 at 11am or 2.30pm. Tickets can be booked online at www.westcliffclacton. co.uk or by calling 01255 433344 (option1).

30 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Enjoy a traditional panto at the Mercury Theatre

Standby evil laughter, get ready thunder and lightning! It’s that time of year again as the Mercury Theatre in Colchester announces its 2014 pantomime, Cinderella.

This year’s panto promises to be a traditional affair with plenty of audience participation, slop and sloshy fun and the return of favourite Mercury stars Dale Superville, Ignatius Anthony and Tim Freeman.

In Stoneybroke Hall the wicked Baroness Evilla is forcing poor Cinderella to live an awful life as an all-round slave. When the Prince of Colchester Castle proclaims his plan to pick a princess at a posho party, Cinders’ ugly step-sisters set out to take his hand in marriage… by force if necessary!

Cinderella’s happiness depends on her best friend Buttons. If Buttons can complete his double totes ridic cray cray mission to see Prince Charming and Cinderella marry, he’ll earn his wings from Fairy Fingringhoe. He’ll then be able to do what he’s always wanted to do – fly! Directed by the Mercury Theatre’s Artistic Director, and director of last year’s hit production of Michael Morpurgo’s The Butterfly Lion, Daniel Buckroyd.

The Mercury has also introduced an Off-Peak Friends and Family Deal to make a visit to the panto more affordable - book six seats or more on an off-peak show in the top-price (green) area, you’ll get £3 off per ticket.

Cinderella will play at the Mercury Theatre from Friday, December 5 to Sunday, January 11. Tickets start at £10.

To book tickets visit www.mercurytheatre.co.uk or call 01206 573948.

Win a family ticket (4 tickets) to see Cinderella, on Wednesday 7th January at 7pm by answering the following question: What is the name of Cinderella’s best friend?

How to enter Email competitions@mercurytheatre.co.uk with the answer, your name and contact number.

Tickets will be posted out to the winner prior to the performance.

Closing day: Midday, Fri 19 December.

Festive Entertainment

The Swashbuckling Family Pantomime

The story of Peter Pan is one of the best loved stories for all the family. Chelmsford City Theatres in partnership with One From The Heart add swashbuckling magic to bring together this traditional pantomime from Wednesday 3 December 2014 to Sunday 4 January 2015. Samuel Parker stars as our hero, Peter Pan, whilst Neal Wright returns to the Civic Theatre for another pantomime, this time in the role of Smee. The rest of your favourite Peter Pan characters will be played by a wonderfully talented cast, who look forward to welcoming you to the Civic Theatre this Christmas.

When Peter Pan flies into the bedroom of the Darling children one night and flies them to Neverland, a treasure chest of adventure begins.

Join Tinkerbell, Tiger Lily and the Lost Boys to do battle on Peter Pan’s arch enemy, the villainous Captain Hook and his pirates.

Peter Pan is an action-packed production featuring magnificent scenery, beautiful costumes, an abundance of comedy and even characters flying above the stage!

Hook your seats now! Tickets are £20.00, concessions £17.00 and a family ticket is £64.00. Group discounts are available.

Book tickets online by visiting www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres or via the Box Office on 01245 606505.

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 31

Theatre Listings

BRAINTREE 14th Dec

Santa’s Little Helper

A blend of music, puppetry and high energy storytelling. Plus lots of laughs, sing-along songs and plenty of opportunities to join in. Age: 3-7yrs.

11.30am/2.30pm. £8/£5. Arts Theatre 01376 556354

17th-24th Jan Puss in Boots

17th – 21st Feb

3rd Dec – 19th Feb

Charlie Ashanti lives in a future where phones are powered by the sun, cars are banned and companies are more powerful than countries. Charlie is a perfectly normal boy, except for one thing: he can speak to cats. Age: 8yrs+. Various times/prices. Mercury Theatre 01206 573948

A stage adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s story of murder, money and mutiny. Age: 10yrs+. Various times/ prices. National Theatre, South Bank www.nationaltheatre.org.uk

Lionboy

HALSTEAD

Based on a traditional story of a penniless miller’s son who inherits a magical talking cat and sets off on a wonderful adventure, the tale is given a modern twist and lots of surprises. Various times/prices. Arts Theatre 01376 556354

19th Feb

CHELMSFORD

HARLOW

7th Dec

La Bayadere

Film screening of the romantic ballet, performed by The Bolshoi. 7pm. £14.50 Cramphorn Theatre 01245 606505

13th Dec Comedy Club 4 Kids

The best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best... but without the rude bits!

Age: 6yrs+. 2pm. £7.50. Cramphorn Theatre 01245 606505

16th Dec Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland

Live film screening of the full-length ballet version of Lewis Carroll’s book.7.15pm. £14.50. Cramphorn Theatre 01245 606505

Theo The Mouse’s Comedy Circus

Fun-filled new show, featuring lots of audience participation, songs, magic and comedy. Age: 2yrs+.

2.30pm. £8. Empire Theatre 07778 025490

14th Feb

King Arthur’s Kitchen

A musical about heroism, damsels in distress and good food. King Arthur is celebrating his birthday with his Knights of the Round Table, who are preparing the party banquet.11am/2.30pm. £9-£12. The Playhouse 01279 431945

IPSWICH 1st Dec – 31st Jan

Beauty and the Beast

An irresistible rock ‘n’ roll pantomime with rock, pop and soul songs. Age: 6yrs+. Various times/prices. New Wolsey Theatre 01473 295900

3rd Dec – 3rd Jan

Dogs Don’t Do Ballet

Treasure Island

3rd Dec – 8th Feb

Grandad, Me and Teddy Too

Join Grandad, Mia (and Teddy Too) as they share an unforgettable adventure to wherever their imaginations take them. Age: 2-5yrs. Various times. £11.50. Polka Theatre, Wimbledon 020 8543 4888

7th Dec

Theatretrain Theatretrain’s Colchester students will be performing their theatre production at Aldephi Theatre, London for more information contact 01787 473150 or braintree@theatretrain.co.uk

9th Dec – 4th Jan Scrunch

Ding, dong. Doorbell rings and there’s a present for baby, not to be opened until Christmas Day. The paper’s exciting - scrunch it, rumple it, crumple it... what can it be?! Age: 6-18mths. Various times/prices.

Unicorn Theatre 020 7645 0560

14th Dec

Theatretrain Theatretrain’s Braintree students will be performing their theatre production at Drury Lane, London for more information contact 01787 473150 or

email braintree@theatretrain.co.uk

9th -25th Jan

21st Dec The Nutcracker

The hilarious story of a small dog with a big personality and even bigger dreams, brought to life using puppets, well-loved ballet music and comedy. Various times/ prices. New Wolsey Studio 01473 295900

LONDON

Calling all brave explorers! Join two friendly (and slightly naughty) polar bears on the adventure of a lifetime. Age: 2yrs+. Various times. £10-£16. Unicorn Theatre 020 7645 0560

25th Jan

1st Dec – 4th Jan

13th Feb – 15th Mar

Film screening, performed by The Bolshoi Ballet. 3pm. £14.50. Cramphorn Theatre 01245 606505

Film version of this classic ballet performed by The Bolshoi Ballet. 3pm. £14.50. Cramphorn Theatre 01245 606505

Swan Lake

CLACTON 20th Feb

The Basil Brush Show - Boom! Boom!

Basil Brush is a star with an outstanding ability to entertain and make people of all ages laugh and smile.

11am or 2.30pm. West Cliff Theatre, Clacton-on-Sea. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 01255 433344 (option1)

COLCHESTER 23rd & 24th Dec, 27 – 31st Dec, 1st – 4th Jan The Elves & The Shoemaker

Find out what happened to the jolly old shoemaker, discover the dreadful fate of the Gingerbread Man and laugh at The Emperor’s New Clothes! A hilarious and heartwarming take on some of the world’s favourite fairytales. Various times. £4.95. Arts Centre 01206 500900. www.colchesterartscentre.com

The Polar Bears Go Wild

Mother Goose

Britain’s Best Recruiting Sergeant

Imagine what you could do with a magical goose who lays priceless golden eggs? Discover what becomes of Mother Goose when she is given Princess Pricilla, a magic goose with a golden talent. Various times/prices.

Hackney Empire, London E8 1EJ 020 8985 2424

The story of Vesta Tilley, a music hall performer. War breaks out and she supports the cause by helping to recruit soldiers to fight for king and country, but has she used her stardom for good? Age: 8yrs+. £10-£16.

Unicorn Theatre 020 7645 0560

1st Dec – 4th Jan

14th – 22nd Feb

It’s Christmas Eve, 1805. Seven year-old Marie retrieves the sad and broken Nutcracker from under the Christmas tree and promises to look after him. But on the stroke of midnight he comes alive, and they journey together through strange and fantastical stories. Age: 8yrs+. Various times/prices. Unicorn Theatre 020 7645 0560

Have you ever cooked a meal in the dishwasher? Made a rope swing? Or licked a 9 volt battery? This show gives you the chance to do everything you didn’t ever think was allowed. Age: 3-10yrs. Various times. £10-£16.

Unicorn Theatre 020 7645 0560

The Nutcracker and the Mouse-King

1st Dec – 4th Jan

The Fourth Wise Man

Join Artaban, the fourth Wise Man as he prepares for a momentous journey. But what should he wear? What gift should he bring? And where on earth will he find the right camel? Age: 4-7yrs. Various times/prices.

Unicorn Theatre 020 7645 0560

32 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

50 Dangerous Things (You Should Let Your Children Do)

Wellbeing & Classified

Well Being CHILDREN’S THERAPY Beanstalk Children’s Therapy

Offer services to children and young people aged 0 to 16 years. With new and exciting treatment approaches, including Sensory Integration Therapy and Therapeutic Listening™. www.beanstalktherapy.co.uk/

DENTISTRY The Dental Studio

Friendly staff, free parking, flexible appointments. Accepting new patients now! 01206 845891 www.the-dental-studio.com

FITNESS Boxercise

Great for weight loss, coordination, balance and toning up - in fun classes.

SD Martial Arts 01206 860008

Kingfisher Leisure Centre

Work out in the gym, enjoy a class, swim in the leisure pool and relax in the sauna and spa. A class for everyone: Zumba, Pilates, bodybalance, yoga and more.

01787 375656 www.ssleisure.co.uk

Leisure World Colchester

A comprehensive aerobic workout programme that offers over 50 classes a week.For more information 01206 282000 www.colchesterleisureworld.co.uk

RAISING SELF-ESTEEM Building Confidence Course

Life Skills courses to help raise parents’ self esteem. Contact Extra Support for Families 01255 475001 extrasupportforfamilies@btconnect. com www.extrasupportforfamilies.co.uk

How Do I Care For My Children’s Teeth?

1. When should I take my children to the dentist?

It is recommended that children go to the dentist with their parents as soon as possible. You should take them on average once every six months, to let them get used to the noises, smells and surroundings and prepare them for future visits. The earlier visits begin, the more relaxed the child will be.

2. How should I clean their teeth?

Cleaning your child’s teeth should be part of their daily hygiene routine.

You may find it easier to stand or sit behind your child, cradling their chin in your hand so you can reach their top and bottom teeth more easily. When the first teeth start to come through, try using a children’s toothbrush with a small smear of toothpaste; it is important to supervise your child’s brushing until they are at least seven.

Aqua Springs

Once all the teeth have come through, use a small-headed soft toothbrush in small circular movements, concentrating on one section at a time. Brush gently behind the teeth and onto the gums. If possible make tooth brushing a routine – preferably in the morning, and last thing before your child goes to bed. Remember to encourage your child, as praise will often get results!

The Trinity Natural Health Centre

All children are different and develop at different rates. Teeth can also come through in a different order so do not be worried, as your dentist will be able to keep a check on your child’s teeth, and they will be able to highlight any developmental problems.

RELAXATION The ultimate health spa experience.

Saunas, steam room, massage pools, salt inhalation room and more. www.aqua-springs.co.uk in the heart of Colchester houses experienced holistic practitioners offering lots of complementary therapies. 01206 561150 trinityhealing.org /

3. When do my child’s teeth come through?

Regular visits to the dentist are essential in helping your child to get used to the surroundings and what goes on there. A child can be much more anxious if it is their first visit to a dental practice.

If you have any questions or concerns about your children’s teeth then contact one of the team at The Dental Studio on 01206 845891.

CHARITIES

Little Havens Hospice Caring for children with life-limiting illnesses across Essex and supporting their families. www.havenshospices.org.uk

CHILDREN’S THERAPY

Beanstalk Children’s Therapy Offer services to children and young people aged 0 to 16 years. With new and exciting treatment approaches, including Sensory Integration Therapy and Therapeutic Listening™. www.beanstalktherapy.co.uk/

FORENSICS

Adults can be a ‘Csi4aday’ at Chelmsford! Collect evidence from the crime scene. Singles or groups.

Call 07974 940265 or www.csi4aday.com

FOSTERING

Children First Fostering Agency are looking to recruit caring individuals who want to make a difference to a child or young person’s life. For more information contact 0808 178 1144 or www.cffa.co.uk

PARENTING COURSES

Family-Run Courses One-off workshops and parenting courses, plus Maths and English courses for parents of pre-school and primary school children. Crèche and refreshments available. Little Lamb’s Pre-School of Mistley. Call Deborah Lamb on 01206 397255 Parenting Courses A whole range of courses and workshops for parents within the Tendring District.

Contact EXTRA: 01255 475001 extrasupportforfamilies@btconnect.com www.extrasupportforfamilies.co.uk

WORK OPPORTUNITIES

Forever Living Natural Aloe Vera Products. Weight management, beauty, wellness, health, fitness. Are you looking for more income and flexible work around your children?

Call for info Claire Kettle, Forever Living Independent Distributor 07746 044366.

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 33

Get Active

ACTION COURSES

Action Park, Multiple Activity Centre, based on the A127 near

Wickford, J29/M25. Ages 6+. Catering for families, corporate functions, schools, groups, hen, stag and kids’ parties.

0844 683 0675 www.actionpark.co.uk info@actionpark.co.uk

DANCE

A registered ISTD dance school.

Debbie Millar offers classes in classical ballet, tap & modern theatre, with special classes for tots. Debbie Millar School of Dance 01206 230806

Babyballet® Colchester

Award-winning dance concept for boys and girls 6 months-6 years. In Clacton, East Bergholt, Wix, Colchester & Gt.Bentley 07960 642 467 colchester@babyballet.co.uk www.babyballet.co.uk

Braintree Theatretrain

Sat 10am-1pm at Tabor High School.

Please call 01787 473150 or email braintree@theatretrain.co.uk

Jazz/Modern Dance Ages 6-12 on

Mondays (4.50pm-5.50pm) and ages 3-5 on Tuesdays (4pm-4.45pm) at Leisure World Colchester. 01206 282000

Stagecoach (Braintree) Performing

arts classes for 4-18 year olds. Saturdays 10am -1 pm, 6- 18 years, 10.15am11.45am, 4-6 years. Notley High School, Braintree. www.stagecoach.co.uk/ braintree. Call Julie Berridge (Principal) 01376 743788

Ballet A ballet class for all Suits all ages and abilities, tots, teens and adults. ISTD examinations and annual dance show.

Debbie Millar School of Dance 01206 230806

Ballet,tap and modern Tots to teens. kids street dance age 5-11. ISTD grades, shows, and festivals. Plus adult classes for fun and fitness. The Celtic Rose Centre and Rowhedge Village Hall, Colchester. 01206 514419 www.valentineschoolofdance.com Leisure World Ballet Ages 3-5 on

Mondays (4pm-4.45pm) and ages 6-12 on Tuesdays (4.50pm-5.50pm) at Leisure World Colchester. 01206 282000

The Company Performing Arts

Ballet and dance classes for girls and boys from age 2 upwards. Classes in Colchester and Clacton. ISTD & RAD examinations and shows.

01206 241845

Theatre Fun Academy Ballet for 4–12 year olds. Fun classes without the pressure of exams held in beautiful dance studio in Colchester. Contact: 07715 324267 theatrefun@hotmail.co.uk www.theatrefun.co.uk Disco/Freestyle/Street Mini Street Dance A funky, fun

and energetic class with crazy dance moves for children aged 3-7 years.

Wednesdays 4pm-4.45pm. Leisure World Colchester 01206 282000

Street Dance Age 8+ If you are

Stagecoach (Colchester) Performing

looking for the urban experience then look no further! Wednesdays 5pm-6pm.

Leisure World Colchester 01206 282000

Stagecoach (Sudbury) Performing

Braintree Theatretrain

arts classes for 4-18 year olds, Saturdays at the Sixth Form College. Call Caroline Maxwell 0845 603 0880

arts classes for 4-18 year olds, Saturday mornings at the Ormiston Sudbury Academy Art Centre. Call Katie 01473 601078

The Company Performing Arts

Ballet, tap, modern, jazz & street classes for girls and boys of all ages and abilities. Classes in Colchester and Clacton. Examination and performance opportunities. 01206 241845

Theatretrain The company that loves

to perform. Performing arts training for 6-18 year olds. Classes on Saturdays in Colchester & Braintree 01787 473150

Theatricool Performing Arts School Learn and perform theatre

DRAMA/PERFORMING ARTS

Saturday mornings, 10am-1pm at Tabor High School. If interested, please call 01787 473150 or email braintree@theatretrain.co.uk

KATS Age 11-18. Established performing theatre group. Saturday mornings, Headgate Theatre, Colchester. Sarah Young 01206 851796 or 07939 401640

KATS Monday evenings, 5-11yrs.

4.30pm-6pm. Myland Parish Halls, Mile End, Colchester. Saturday mornings, 6-12yrs. 9.30am-11am Headgate Theatre, Colchester. Sarah Young 01206 851796 or 07939 401640

dance, street dance and musical theatre-related dancing. Based in Colchester 07736 713909

34 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Stagecoach (Braintree) Performing ats classes for 4-18 year olds. Saturdays 10am -1 pm, 6- 18 years, 10-15am11.45am, 4-6 years. Notley High School Braintree. www.stagecoach.co.uk/ braintree. Call Julie Berridge (Principal) 01376 743788 Stagecoach (Colchester) Performing arts classes for 4-18 year olds, on Saturdays at the Sixth Form College.

Call Caroline Maxwell 0845 603 0880

Stagecoach (Sudbury) Performing arts classes for 4-18 year olds, Saturday mornings at the Ormiston Sudbury Academy Art Centre.

Call Katie 01473 601078 The Company Performing Arts

Drama, singing and dance classes on Saturdays in Clacton. NO termly commitment, just professional training and numerous performance opportunities. 01255 427376 www.thecompanyperformingarts.com

Theatretrain The company that loves to perform. Performing arts training for 6-18 year olds. Classes on Saturdays in Colchester & Braintree 01787 473150 Theatricool Performing Arts School Teaching methods include

drama games and acting techniques with lots of fun too, of course! Based in Colchester 07736 713909

Theatre Fun Academy provides

performance training in Lexden, Colchester, for 4-18yr olds. Classes are run by trained theatre professionals & students perform in 2 shows each year.

Contact: 07715 324267 theatrefun@hotmail.co.uk www.theatrefun.co.uk

GYMNASTICS

Colchester School of Gymnastics

Up to 3yrs: Baby gym, Mon-Fri 9:3010:30am. 2-5yrs: Gym Fun, Mon-Fri 9:00-11:00am. Up to 5yrs: Gym Jam (music), Mon & Wed 1:45-2:15pm & Tues 10:45-11:15am. 01206 844 188 info@colchestergymnastics.com www.colchestergymnastics.com

Gymnastics Free 1 hour gymnastics trial for all age groups and abilities.Wed 5:30pm/6:30pm & Sat 9:00am/11:00am Gym Tots, birthday parties & holiday courses. Booking is essential.

Email buba@eppingforestgymclub.com, 07767 167512 or visit www.eppingforestgymclub.com Iceni Gymnastics Club The Stanway School Pre-school. Saturday 10.0010.45am Recreational (No age limit) Saturday 10.30-12.00 noon and Monday 6.00-7.30 pm Contact Annette 07773 891 563 Junior Gym 3½ yrs-5yrs: Various times School age gymnastic & trampoline 1hr Classes: Every weekday from 4pm and all day Saturday Colchester School of Gymnastics 01206 844 188 info@colchestergymnastics.com www.colchestergymnastics.com

HIGH ROPES

High Ropes Adventure Course

based on the A127 near Wickford, J29/ M25. Ages 6+. Catering for families, corporate functions, schools, groups, hen, stag and kids parties.

0844 683 0675 www.actionpark.co.uk info@actionpark.co.uk

Get Active

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 35

Get Active

LASER/PAINTBALL

Laser Mayhem Play real Call of Duty

missions based around the computer game. Hide behind real Russian battle tanks, planes & helicopters using Laser Tag equipment. 01708 688517 www.laser-mayhem.co.uk

MARTIAL ARTS

Martial Arts Kid kick karate 6-8 yrs,

kickboxing 9 yrs+, korean karate 8 yrs+, Little Dragons 3-5 yrs. Junior grappling 6 yrs+, boxing 9 yrs+. and judo 6yrs+ At SD Martial Arts, Eastgates, Colch ester 01206 860008 www.sdsma.co.uk

NETBALL

KATS Netball Club Netball at HIghwoods for primary school girls every Saturday at 9.15am, senior girls every Wednesday at 6:30pm.

Call Kim on 07788 887923

PLAY

Little Grasshoppers 18 mths-4yrs Fri 10am-11am. Little Monkeys crawling 4 yrs. Thursdays 10am-11.15am at SD Martial Arts, Eastgates, Colchester 01206 860008 www.sdsma.co.uk

Little Kingfishers Children up to 10

years will have great fun exploring the 4-tiered play frame 01787 375656 www.ssleisure.co.uk

Space Kingdom for fun that’s out

of this world! Amazing climbing fun, football pitch, go-karts, parties and Moon Rock Cafe. Aged 0-12.

0845 521 2809 fun@spacekingdom.co.uk www.spacekingdom.co.uk

RUGBY

Little Scrummers Rugby Exciting non-contact rugby classes for 2-6 year olds. Classes in Colchester, Stansted Mountfitchet and Cambridge.

07738 591232 www.littlescrummers.com

SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

Children’s Multi-Sport Camp

Friday 20 February, 9am – 1pm Sports will include benchball, dodgeball, football, racket sports. £20/child per camp or £50 for all three. University of Essex Sports Centre www.essex.ac.uk/ sport or chums@essex.ac.uk

Football Camp Wednesday 18 February, Children’s 9am – 1pm Fun and friendly football camp open to all abilities. Indoor five a side, Futsal, Mini Games, and a Tournament! University of Essex Sports Centre www.essex.ac.uk/ sport or chums@essex.ac.uk

The Company Performing Arts

Kids Camp Every school holiday.

Theatretrain The company that loves

All-day, fully-supervised activity session for children in school years 1-6. Lunch included. 9am-3pm from £21.50 or 8am-5.30pm from £26.50. Leisure World Colchester 01206 282000

Kingfisher Leisure Centre Wet “n”

Wild session during holidays 2pm-4pm, Monday-Saturday. Learn to swim with swim school. 01787 375656 Full information at www.ssleisure.co.uk

Theatre Fun Academy run exciting

Drama, singing and dance classes on Saturdays in Clacton. NO termly commitment, just professional training and numerous performance opportunities. 01255 427376 www.thecompanyperformingarts.com to perform. Performing arts training for 6 - 18 year olds. Classes on Saturdays in Colchester & Braintree 01787 473150

Theatricool Performing Arts School Learn how to use your voice

properly, sing and perform a range of solo and group songs. Based in Colchester 07736 713909

SWIMMING

TENNIS

Mini Tennis Provides a fun and exciting

introduction to tennis using small-sized rackets and special balls. Leisure World Tennis Centre 01206 367941

TOTS CLASSES

Debbie Millar’s Special Classes

for pre-school girls and boys.

Fun sessions learning rhythm and coordination through music, movement and mime. Debbie Millar School of Dance 01206 230806

Eureka Musical fun for under 5s. Enjoy songs, dancing, story time, parachute play, and much more! Wednesdays in Colchester. Lisa on 01206 870150 or lili@india.com

Small group swimming lessons

The Company Performing Arts

kids enjoy a fun club during the October half term for more infation call 01255 221473 www.willowtreechildrenscentre.co.uk

Swim School Babies to 5 years. Call Leisure World Colchester 01206 282000 www.colchesterleisureworld.co.uk

Trampolining Ages 3-15 years.

Xmas CHUMS Sports Camp

World Colchester 01206 282000 www.colchesterleisureworld.co.uk

children’s holiday performance workshops in Colchester. To find out more visit www.theatrefun.co.uk or contact: theatrefun@hotmail.co.uk 07715 324267 or ‘find us’ on Facebook!

Willow Tree Holiday Club let your

Monday 22 and Tuesday 23 December, 9am – 5pm Enjoy an exciting array of sports every day with ample indoor facilities and safe outdoor space £31/ child for both days. Discounts for more than one child from the same family. www.essex.ac.uk/sport, chums@essex.ac.uk

SINGING

Braintree Theatretrain Saturday

mornings, 10am-1pm at Tabor High School. If interested, please call 01787 473150 or email braintree@theatretrain.co.uk

Stagecoach (Braintree) Performing ats classes for 4-18 year olds. Saturdays 10am -1 pm: 6- 18 years, 10:15am11:45am: 4-6 years. Notley High School, Braintree. www.stagecoach.co.uk/ braintree. Call Julie Berridge (Principal) 01376 743788 Stagecoach (Colchester) Performing

arts classes for 4-18 year olds, Saturdays at the Sixth Form College. Call Caroline Maxwell 0845 603 0880

Fitness Camp Monday 16 February,

Children’s, 9am – 1pm. A chance to learn about fitness and nutrition with interactive activities! University of Essex Sports Centre www.essex.ac.uk/sport or chums@essex.ac.uk

36 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Water-based teachers. All ages and abilities. Only one lesson at a time in the pool. Colchester, Harwich and Tolleshunt Major. 01206 562357 info@swimtoswim.com www.swim2swim.com

Swim School 5 to 12 years. Call Leisure Swim School at Kingfisher from 6

months to 99 years. Call 01787 375656 www.ssleisure.co.uk

A fun introduction to dance, drama and song in their specially-designed tots and pre-syllabus classes. Fully-qualified staff encourage children’s co-ordination, confidence, fitness and discipline. From 2 years upwards. 01206 241845

TRAMPOLINING

Whether you’re a beginner or want to improve your skills - there’s a course for you. Leisure World Colchester, Leisure World Highwoods and Leisure World Tiptree 01206 282000

YOGA

Children’s Yoga Classes fun and

relaxing excercise for children. For ages 8-14. Thursdays 4.45pm to 5.30pm SD Martial Arts, Eastgates, Colchester 01206 860008 www.sdsma.co.uk

Stay Fit & Healthy This Winter

Here are five ways to make sure that you can keep healthy and fit, no matter what the weather’s like.

1. Eliminate your sleep debt In winter, we naturally sleep more because of the longer nights.

2. Drink more milk You are 80% more likely to get a cold in winter, so help your immune system to be in tip-top condition. Milk and dairy products such as cheese and yoghurt are great sources of protein and vitamins A and B12.

3. Eat more fruit and veg When it’s cold and dark outside, unhealthy comfort food can be tempting, but it’s important to have a healthy diet and five portions of fruit and veg a day. If you crave a sugary treat, try a juicy clementine instead, or sweet dried fruits such as dates or raisins.

Winter vegetables such as carrots, parsnips and swede can be roasted, mashed or made into soup for a comforting winter family meal.

4. Try new activities for the whole family Don’t use the cold winter months as an excuse to stay in. Why not try something new: maybe ice skating or a bracing winter walk on the beach.

Exercise helps control your weight, boost your immune system, and can break the tension that can build if the family is constantly cooped up inside the house.

5. Have a hearty breakfast Eating a warm bowlful of porridge on a cold morning is a delicious way to start your day and boosts your intake of starch and fibre.

These give you energy and help you feel fuller for longer, stopping the temptation to snack mid-morning. Oats also contain lots of vital vitamins and minerals.

For more information please see www.nhs.uk

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 37

Birth & Beyond Top 10 baby names, boys and girls, 2013 in England and Wales

Girls names:

Boys names:

1. Amelia

1. Oliver

2. Olivia

2. Jack

3. Emily

3. Harry

4. Ava

4. Jacob

5. Isla

5. Charlie

6. Jessica

6. Thomas

7. Poppy

7. Oscar

8. Isabella

8. William

9. Sophie

9. James

10. Mia

10. George

Eat Well During Pregnancy Beef Stroganoff With Spinach Ingredients: 2 x 4oz peices beef tenderloin, cut into thin, bite-size strips 1 large onion, chopped 1 x 10oz button mushrooms, sliced 1 x 10oz fresh or frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed 1 small pot of reduced-fat sour cream season to taste brown/white rice or tagliatelle Parsley to serve (optional)

How to cook: 1. Heat oil in a medium nonstick wok or large frying pan over a medium heat 2. Add beef and sauté for 3 minutes 3. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm 4. Return wok/frying pan to medium heat 5. Add onions and saute for 5 minutes 6. Add mushrooms, spinach, salt and pepper and sauté for 5 minutes 7. Reduce heat to low and stir reserved beef and juices 8. Stir in sour cream and heat until warm. (Do not boil sour cream, or it could split) 9. Serve with rice or tagliatelle 10. Spinkle with Parsley (optional) Sit and enjoy feeding you and your bump!

Recipe provided by: www.project-b.com 38 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Birth & Beyond Whites Farm Baby Barn

A Nursery retail outlet situated in a lovely barn in the village of White Colne.

Excellent customer service and product knowledge are a top priority and you can be guaranteed good advice from experienced staff.

There is a fantastic selection of products from leading manufacturers They also take safety very seriously and as part of the Essex County Council try before you buy scheme they will spend time with you finding the most suitable car seat for both your car and your needs.

With easy parking just outside the door, the best advice, best customer service and the opportunity to shop in a relaxed, happy atmosphere they are definitely worth a visit!

For more information call 01787 228000 or visit www.whitesfarmbabybarn.co.uk

Pre-school fun at Debbie Miller School of Dance

The Debbie Millar School of Dance is fully licensed to offer “Melody Movement Early Learning®” with Melody and Milligan Bear. The classes are a fun introduction for young children from 18 months upwards to dance and movement using the natural actions of the body such as running, walking, jumping, hopping, skipping and galloping. Melody Movement also introduces children to other fundamental curriculum learning skills such as counting, colour and shapes recognition, vocabulary and language skills. The strength of the system is that learning is achieved through imaginative moment which is enjoyable and fun, promoting co-ordination, agility and physical fitness. Classes are held at the Ogilvie Hall in Lawford on Tuesday mornings, 11.00am to 11.30am.

For further detail call Debbie on 01206 230806.Melody Bear and Melody Movement are the registered trade marks of Jill Ewing.

Support for Families Make friends with like minded parents at EXTRA’s courses and workshops. ‘I have made several new friends who are in the same boat as myself which helps you feel less isolated’ (July 2014).

EXTRA run fun Craft workshops in school holidays where children can join in.

You can also choose from a range of parenting courses and workshops for parents/carers of children of all ages including specialist courses, such as Building Confidence and Managing Anger and a course for parents of children who have additional needs. All activities are fully funded, with excellent refreshments and many have a crèche.

Visit: www.extrasupportforfamilies.co.uk Call: 01255 475001 Follow us on Twitter @Extra2009

Swim 2 Swim Lessons

Learning to swim is fun, provides health benefits and could save a child’s life. Sadly, drowning is the third most common form of accidental death in children, so learning to swim really is an essential life skill. The great thing about swimming is that children of any age, size or ability can take part – and it is more accessible to children with disabilities than most other sports. It keeps your child’s heart and lungs healthy, improves strength and flexibility, increases stamina and even improves balance and posture. Swimming opens the door to other sports and activities, and it’s a skill that once learnt is rarely forgotten.

Contact 01206 503357 or www.swim2swim.com for more information

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 39

Childcare BABY GYM

Colchester School of Gymnastics

Tiny Tumblers : Age 18 months-5 years.

Mon-Fri 10.30am-11.30am.

Baby Gym: Up to 2 yrs. Mon-Fri, 9.30am-10.20am. 01206 844188 www.colchestergymnastics.com CLOTH NAPPIES

NCT Nappy Library & Advisory Service For advice or to hire modern

cloth nappies to try before you buy! Hire packages from just £5 for a 2wk trial. nappylibrary@colchester-nct.co.uk

HELP AND SUPPORT

Colchester and District NCT

If you need pre/post-natal support, from feeding advice to homebirth information, contact the national helpline on 0300 330 0700. For local activities call 0844 243 6093 or visit www.nct.org.uk/Colchester

Parenting Support Workshops

and parenting courses from Extra Support for Families for parents of under fives. Contact 01255 475001 extrasupportforfamilies@btconnect.com www.extrasupportforfamilies.co.uk MULTIPLE BIRTHS

To advertise over 120,000 readers in Essex, contact Kate on 01371 238071 kate.ellison@kidaround.biz

Twins and Multiple Birth Club

For families with twins or multiple births and their siblings aged 0-5 years. Mon 10am-12 noon. Willow Tree Nursery and Children’s Centre. Call 01255 221473 01245 224790 / 07789 742412 MUSIC & MOVEMENT

Baby Ballet for tots and preschool. A

fun introduction to dance, promoting coordination, physical fitness and agility.

Debbie Millar School of Dance 01206 230806

Babyballet® Colchester

Award-Winning dance concept for boys and girls 6 months-6 years.

In Clacton, East Bergholt, Wix, Colchester & Gt.Bentley 07960 642 467 colchester@babyballet.co.uk www.babyballet.co.uk

Eureka Enjoy gentle musical games and sensory treasure baskets with your baby.

Wednesdays in Colchester. Lisa on 01206 870150, or lili@india.com.

40 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Pre-School ballet “Ballet-Teds” class from age 2 and a half, Colchester and Rowhedge venues. The Valentine School of Dance 01206 514419 www.valentineschoolofdance.com The Company Performing Arts

A fun introduction to dance, drama and song in specially-designed tots and pre-syllabus classes. Fully-qualified staff encourage children’s co-ordination, confidence, fitness and discipline. From 2 years upwards. 01206 241845 NURSERY OUTLET

Whites Farm Baby Barn Independent nursery retailer just outside Colchester offering quality customer service and a range of products for all your baby needs.

01787 228000 www.whitesfarmbabybarn.co.uk PLAY

Little Kingfishers Play Centre Play, activities & parties for children up to 10 years. Open 7 days a week. 01787 375656 www.littlekingfishers.co.uk Parent & Toddler Fun Session

Two hours of fun for under 5’s.

Colchester Leisure World 01206 282000 www.colchesterleisureworld.co.uk

Space Kingdom For fun that’s out of

this world! Amazing baby & toddler play area, parties & daily activities. The perfect place to meet new friends. Visits from Jo Jingles.0845 521 2809 www.spacekingdom.co.uk fun@spacekingdom.co.uk

PRE/POST-NATAL EXERCISE

Aqua Bump Works on gentle fitness

and gentle toning. Wednesday 8pm8.40pm. Leisure World Colchester 01206 282000 RUGBY

Little Scrummers Rugby

Exciting tag rugby for 2-6 year olds.

Essex & Cambridgeshire. Make friends and learn new skills! 07738 591232 www. littlescrummers.com READING

Bookstart Sing some rhymes and look

at books, meet other babies and their grown-ups at your local library. (Siblings under 5 are welcome too).

SWIMMING

Baby Swimming Lessons At Spirit

Health Club (Colchester) & at Primrose (Ramsey). Only one lesson at a time in the pool; water-based teachers.

01206 562357 info@swim2swim.com

Learn To Swim at Kingfisher Leisure Centre & Hadleigh Pool & Leisure.

The start of your child’s aquatic journey Kingfisher: 01787 375656 Hadleigh P& L: 01473 823470 www.ssleisure.co.uk

Childcare What’s in a story?

The importance of true storytelling The art of storytelling is much more complex than you would first assume as it is more than reading to children showing pictures from a book. Storytelling involves children having a story told to them without a book. Great storytelling is acting out a story, an experienced teller can use tricks to make them curious and encourage them to ask questions.

Storytelling is a great activity for learning, the benefits reach right across all areas of learning and development. Some of these benefits include: Language and vocabulary – as they tell stories children extend their vocabulary Communication – as they build a story, children explain their ideas to others.

Listening - infancy is the period when children absorb most of the words they use in the future.

Sequencing and memory – children need to think about what has already happened in their story and what will happen next. Without books or illustrations, children have to remember key points of the plot and character names.

Problem-solving – stories that have a problem to solve or a decision to make will support the children’s ability to think through an idea or make a plan.

Building relationships – storytelling is an interactive experience.

Similarities, differences and values –most stories depict good and bad characters often ending with a moral of the story.

Developing imaginations – ideas and creativity can flourish as children tell a story, travelling through real and fantasy worlds.

Movement – storytelling involves lots of movement and actions as children take on roles of different characters.

New Worlds - storytelling opens children’s minds to other cultures, life philosophies and historical events.

Next time you read to your child why not try some of things suggested above and see what a difference it can make!

Kathleen Lake, HoEYP, BA (Hons), Early Years Professional Seymour House – Brinkley Lane

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 41

Childcare ALRESFORD Alresford Pre-school

In grounds of Alresford Primary School Ford Lane CO7 8AU Susan Richards 07724 124223 www.alresfordpreschool.co.uk

sT

Orchard Cottage Montessori Nursery 120 Wivenhoe Road Colchester 01206 825607 Jackie Ward aejc.ward@virgin.net

BOCKING A.G.N.E.S Day Nursery

Bocking United Reformed Church Church Street 07804 700557 Louise Blake www.agnesdaynursery.com

sT

BRADFIELD The Orchards

Bradfield Primary School Heath Road CO11 2UZ 01255 870768 Michelle Dent

sT *

sT*

ARDLEIGH Ardleigh Preschool

BRAINTREE The Colourwheel Montessori Nursery

Village Hall, Station Road 07092 846384 Jenny Schofield www.ardleighpreschool.co.uk

T

Orchard Barns Babies Redbury Barn Colchester Road 01206 231195 Susan Moss-Thomas

sT

Orchard Barns Private Kindergarten Badliss Hall 01206 231195 Susan Moss-Thomas

Denton Crescent Black Notley 01376 339139 Miss Sam Cottrill colourwheel@btconnect.com

sT Little Pals Children’s Centre Nursery Clacton Coastal Academy Jaywick Lane 01255 687151 Gillian Smith

sT*yH

sT

42 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Pebbles Private Kindergarten Ltd 22 Thoroughgood Road 01255 433339 Carol Thornton-Jones

sT*ly

Willow Tree Day Nursery

Chingford Avenue 01255 221473 Brenda Dearsley www.willowtreechildrenscentre.co.uk

sT*yH

COLCHESTER Butterfly Blue Day Nursery

Circular Road South 01206 764191 Grace Charters enquiries@butterflybluedaynursery.co.uk

sT*y

Butterfly Barns Day Nursery 105 Old Heath Road 01206 790174 Alison

sT*y

Colchester High School Nursery

Wellesley Road 01206 573389 Kate Cryne kate.cryne@colchesterhighschool.co.uk www.colchesterhighschool.co.uk

T

Kiddi Caru

Hythe Quay 01206 871700 colchester@kiddicaru.com www.kiddicaru.com

s

Day Nursery

Wivenhoe Park, CO4 3SQ 01206 873224 Miss Pippa Dines nursery@essex.ac.uk www.essex.ac.uk/nursery

T

Lion Walk Preschool

Lion Walk United Reformed Church (next to Body Shop) 01206 560297 (mornings only) Jaki Bridges lionwalkpreschool@yahoo.co.uk www.lionwalkchurch.org

T

Oaklea Montessori CIC

Wimpole Road Methodist Church Wimpole Road CO1 2DL 01206 657882 Caroline Allen admin@oakleamontesori.co.uk

sT*y

Oxford House School

2-4 Lexden Road 01206 576686 Mrs Harding info@oxfordhouseschool.net www.oxfordhouseschool.net

T

Childcare Puddleducks Pre-school

Kendall Primary School Recreation Road CO1 2HH 01206 868098 Alison Renton puddleducksprenursery@btconnect.com www.puddleduckspreschool.org.uk

sT

Saint James’ Preschool

Saint James’ Primary School Guildford Road 07765 029987 Charlotte or Geraldine. www.stjamespreschool.org.uk stjamespreschool@outlook.com

T

Seymour House Day Nursery School

Brinkley Lane CO4 9XN 01245 852525 Emma Price Brinkley.lane@seymourhouse.co.uk www.seymourhouse.co.uk

s

St. Mary’s Kindergarten 247 London Road 01206 216420 Emma Stanhope

T*ly

St Stephen’s Preschool

St Stephen’s Church Centre Canterbury Road 07534 911918/01206 519034 Katie www.ststephenspreschool.org.uk

Earls Colne Primary School and Nursery

Park Lane 01787 222205 Melanie Vine www.earlscolne.essex.sch.uk

T

EAST BERGHOLT Cherry Blossom Nursery

Cherry Blossom Children’s Centre Hadleigh Road 01206 298442 Liz Kettlety www.cherryblossomnursery.co.uk

sT*ly

GREAT HORKESLEY Holmwood House Nursery 151 Coach Road 01206 273827 Katy Platten/Claire Angel

sT*

Tiddlywinks Preschool 22A Coach Road Great Horkesley CO6 4AT 01206 272669 Helen Taylor

sT

GOSFIELD Acre Wood Pre-School

Gosfield School, Cut Hedge Park, Halstead Road, CO9 1PF 07551543482 Sarah Rash sarahrashuk@hotmail.co.uk

Key to Childcare Provider Icons use these symbols to discover the type of care offered by each setting

s DAY CARE T SESSIONAL CARE

T

y AFTER SCHOOL CLUB

HALSTEAD Butterfly Montessori Nursery

h CHILDMINDER

Bartholem Road Colchester Road CO9 2EA 01787 478434 Maryann

l BREAKFAST CLUB * HOLIDAY CLUB H CRECHE

sT*y HARLOW Kiddi Caru

AGENCIES

Kiln Lane Church Langley 01279 626111 harlow@kiddicaru.com www.kiddicaru.com

Nutkin Nannies Essex

s

Spinney Preschool

Cooks Spinney Primary School Cooks Spinney 07525 266784/01279 435798 Guilia Pollard guiliapollard@spinneypreschool.co.uk

sT

Professional nanny agency providing for all your childcare needs. Including Babysitting Please call Sarah on 01376 529795 or visit www.nutkinnannies.co.uk info@nutkinnannies.co.uk

Sitters.co.uk

Britain’s favourite babysitters offering evening and daytime babysitters with professional childcare experience, even at short notice!

Visit them at www.sitters.co.uk or call 08447 367367

T

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 43

Childcare St Edmund’s Montessori Pre-School

St Edmund’s Montessori Matching Green Harlow 01279 739206 Catherine Middlemas www.stedmundsmontessori.com

T

IPSWICH Oakland Hall Day Nursery Oakland Hall Hadleigh Road Sproughton 0845 838 8955 info@oaklandhall.co.uk

T

LAWFORD Busy Bees Kindergarten

Highfields School Colchester Road 01206 396291 Tina Lawrence/Maria Varnals busybeeskindergarten@gmail.com www.busybeeskindergarten.co.uk

sTy

Little Pumpkins Pre-School CIC The Ling Hall Lawford C of E Primary School Long Road, CO11 2EF 01206 391412 Katie Turner

Oaklea Montessori CIC

Ogilvie Hall Wignall Street 07765 998919 Catherine Theodosius www.oakleamontessori.co.uk

T

MISTLEY Little Lamb’s Preschool of Mistley

THORPE-LE-SOKEN Margery’s Private Day Nursery Margery Wright’s House High Street 01255 862558 Christine Smith

sT*y

Thorpe-le-Soken Pre-School

Remercie Road 01206 397255 Deborah Lamb www.littlelambspreschoolmistley.co.uk

Rolph School Grounds 01255 863070 Sally Vagg www.thorpelesokenpreschool.co.uk tlspreschool@btinternet.com

SAFFRON WALDEN Friends’ Junior School Nursery

TIPTREE ABC Day Nursery

T

Mount Pleasant Road 01799 525351 Adriana Forte adminjs@friends.org.uk www.friends.org.uk

sT STRATFORD ST MARY Orchard Barns Kindergarten Higham Road 01206 323093 Shelley Ward

sT*ly

sT*

sT

The Brambles 22 Grove Road 01621 810772 Kirstin or Sally

sT*ly WITHAM Seymour House

Gershwin Boulevard CM8 1FQ 01245 213210 Caroline Clark witham@seymourhouse.co.uk

s

WHITE COLNE Pippins Montessori Kindergarten White’s Farm Bures Road 01787 228567 Lynne Dear

sT*

WIVENHOE Wivenhoe Montessori

The Pavilion King George V Playing Field 01206 827126 Joahnne Cousins www.wivenhoemontessori.co.uk

T

Key to Childcare Provider Icons use these symbols to discover the type of care offered by each setting

s DAY CARE T SESSIONAL CARE y AFTER SCHOOL CLUB h CHILDMINDER l BREAKFAST CLUB * HOLIDAY CLUB H CRECHE

44 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Book Reviews by local children This Book Just Ate My Dog!

By Richard Byrne RRP:£11.99 Oxford Books This book just ate my dog! We have read this book many times at little hedgehogs.

It’s the story of Bella, her dog and the book itself. The children love the bright colourful pages and the unusual layout of the illustrations. They thought it very funny that the book itself was the story and had it’s own role to play. In fact the children delighted in imagining what else the book had eaten. A fantastic book that really encourages children’s imaginations and a fascination of books.

Kerrie Chapman & the children of Little Hedgehogs

Cakes In Spac e Sarah McIntyr by Philip Reeve & e RRP: £8.99 This is a stor y travelling to about a family an many years aw other planet main characte ay. Astra the r but waking ha wishes for a cake lf her journey, sh way through have come al e finds the cakes ive and are ev The stor y is ab il. to her destin out how she battles to ge ation – Nova t Mundi – and overcomes da ngerous situa way with her tions along th fri stor y is thrillin end who is a robot. The e g w ith lo ts of funny pa and I just wan rts te would recom d to keep on reading. I mend this bo ok because th was lots of ac ere tio I think this bo n and excitement. ok is suitable children aged for 8 – 10 years.

Reviewed by Kitty Yates. Ag ed 10

The Anti-boredom Book of Brilliant Things by Andy Seed RRP: £5.99 Bloomsbury Books Have you been on a boring car journey when you had nothing to do? Well this is the book for you. It’s packed with exciting things to do such as riddles and quizzes to keep you busy. I found this book very entertaining! Watching my mum try to lick her elbow and waggle her ears was hilarious! We also had fun coming up with different film names by changing one letter, like Iron Man to Iron Van. I even learnt some new jokes, and best of all, there are pages at the back for you to scribble your own ideas on. I would recommend this book to children over 7 and their parents.

Reviewed by Quinn Williams, aged 7 ¾

Pocket Pigs of PIggies Colou Austin Pennywell Fa rs: Teacup www.p.eRRP £4.99 rm by Richard nnywell farm.co The boo .uk k and colo was lovely, more w urful picture with bright recogn e read the m s which the ver y su ised. I would sore Ethan around itable for ba ay it was enjoyed 10 months. Ibies from tho sharing him. this booroughly k with Reviewe Ethan 18dmby Rachel Calver (mum) an onths. d

Temple Run: Doom Lagoon by Chase Wilder RRP: £5.99 Egmont Books This is a choose-your-own-adventure book, which I like. It is a very good book and I wouldn’t change anything about it. I would not recommend it for children under the age of 9 as it is a bit complicated and some of the choices end up with the main character dead!

The story is about you finding your own a wreck which you go to explore. It has a very valuable treasure n board which you try to find by choosing the right path. The book is based around the game Temple Run, which I have played.If you had not played the game you could still read the book but would not know the characters so well.

Reviewed by Benjamin Conlon Aged 10

Willy’s Stories by Anthony Browne RRP£12.99 Walker Books

I really enjoyed reading this book with mummy.

I enjoyed thinking of my own ideas on how each little story ended and what could happen next. Me and mummy came up with lots of different endings.

I thought the pictures in the book were really good, they were bright and colourful and nice to look at. My favourite stories were Alice in Wonderland and Peter Pan, I would recommend this book for boys or girls, it is different to other story books and I really enjoyed it.

Reviewed by Megan Buckingham age 6

Each of the books reviewed on this page is available to win on our website www.kidaround.biz and you can see the competition entry rules below. If your child would like to be added to our list of potential reviewers, please email anna.hurley@kidaround.biz with their name and age along with your own name, address and contact telephone number.

Please indicate if your child is a particularly advanced or struggling reader, or if they have any special needs, as this will help us with appropriate book selection.

COMPETITION ENTRY RULES Unless otherwise stated, please email your name, address and daytime contact number to: comps@kidaround.biz by the closing date stated or by Friday 16th January. Only one entry per household. You can also enter via the KidAround website www.kidaround.biz or by post to: KidAround [name of competition] 66 Baynard Avenue, Little Dunmow, CM6 3FD. Please remember to include all of the above information in the body of your email with the name of the item you want to win as the subject. Winners of all comeptitions will be annouced via our twitter and facebook pages. www.kidaround.biz PLEASE NOTE: Some prizes may need to be collected from one of the KidAround offices. www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex

46 • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 14/15 • North Essex • 47