KidAround Magazine - Summer Issue - South Essex by KidAround Magazine

Contents This Summer 05 News & Views 07 Book Reviews

Seasonal Special 08 Summertime Fun

Welcome to Summer

Family Life 12 School’s Out

Hello readers, Yes, my favourite time of year, albeit I am seven months pregnant so the heat may not be appreciated as much as it usually is. I have also decided not to travel abroad this year which is a first and I am looking forward to visiting some wonderful UK destinations - if you haven’t booked your family holiday or are looking for something extra, check out our holiday guide on page 22 with some tried and tested locations. As myself, Kate, Suzanne and Tina are working mums we understand how hard juggling kids and work can be, and therefore, we love putting together our School’s Out feature on page 12 in an attempt to be organised and get our own childcare sorted! During the longer, sunnier (hopefully drier) months, take a look at the Summertime Fun feature on page 08 as well as our Diary Dates section on page 16 These are packed full of wonderful places to visit. Don’t forget we work quite far in advance of printing therefore do check with the venue before heading off. Our website www.kidaround.biz is also regularly updated with more events. Please don’t forget to mention us when booking, it really does help. Our Autumn issue will be published on 11th September, when I should have a new arrival to announce Happy Summer Everyone.

(we are a friendly bunch)

What’s On 16 Diary Dates

Education Matters 20 Education

Early Years 23 Childcare

All this plus: 04 Competitions 08 Games and activities for all the family 20 Our tips for a smooth start at school 22 Family Getaways

Publisher: Anna Hurley anna.hurley@kidaround.biz Sales & Editing Manager: Kate Ellison kate.ellison@kidaround.biz Publishing Assistant: Tina Read tina.read@kidaround.biz Listings Editor: Suzanne Gardner suzanne.gardner@kidaround.biz Content Contributor: Saman Javad sam.fazal@kidaround.biz Anna and Bump xx

Office Tel:01245 206577

READ KIDAROUND ONLINE WITH OUR MOBILE FRIENDLY SITE WWW.KIDAROUND.BIZ WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/KIDAROUNDMAGAZINE WWW.TWITTER.COM/KIDAROUNDMAG

KidAround Magazine is published quarterly by Trew Publishing Ltd. Address: The Dutch Barn, Office K, Ford End, Chelmsford, CM3 1LN. Tel: 01245 206577 | email: info@kidaround.biz. Circulation: over 100,000 - two Essex editions. Disclaimer: The copyright and contents of this magazine, including artwork, adverts, logos and articles, when generated by the KidAround team remain with Trew Publishing. Views expressed in editorial and articles are those of the contributor or advertiser and not necessarily of the publisher. The listings, content and advertising in the magazine are for information and advice only. Inclusion does not imply a recommendation from Trew Publishing or its staff. All advertisements and editorial content are accepted in good faith and on the basis that the advertised goods and services are as stated by the advertisers.

Summer Giveaways!

NEWS & VIEWS

Family entry to be won (four tickets) Escape to Alton Towers Resort for the ultimate Summer Holidays break!

CBeebies Land is bigger than ever this year: Go Jetters Vroomster Zoom ride and The Furchester Hotel Live Show join a land full of enchanting interactive rides and experiences, featuring favourite CBeebies characters. The world’s only CBeebies Land Hotel will join the Resort’s iconic accommodation line-up in July, with a jam-packed exclusive entertainment schedule, and vibrant CBeebies-themed rooms designed especially for little ones. To book your family day out visit: www.altontowers.com

WIN A SMIGGLE ACTIVITY BUNDLE! Smiggle - where a smile meets a giggle – is dedicated to creating original, fun and affordable stationery as well as all the essentials for a family day out.

! n i W

This competition prize includes a Backpack, Watch and a Water bottle for two lucky winners! http://www.smiggle.co.uk/shop/en/smiggleuk Up for grabs is this amazing Coleman Cortes Octagon 8 tent All you need for your perfect family holiday. See page 10 for further details.

A Family ticket to be won!

Win - this fantastic product from Oaxis (only pink available)

Adventures in Wonderland

OAXIS WatchPhone - The only children’s wrist phone which tracks, protects and allows real communication with children.The smartest way to protect your child. First 3G Children’s WatchPhone | Full-colour touch screen | One-touch SOS, GPS & Geo fencing | Classroom mode & fitness tracking

Ever been to Wonderland? Well now is your chance to experience “one of the best children’s shows for some time.” (The Stage). We have a family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) to Adventures in Wonderland at The Vaults, London. Discover more on this interactive theatrical experience at alice-underground.com/aiw

We have tried and tested this great product which you can find at www.kidaround. biz/competitions To find out more about this amazing watch or to purchase one for just £99.99 go to: www.oaxis.com

How to enter

To enter any of our competitions, visit www.kidaround.biz/competitions Full information and t&cs of these great giveaways can also be found online. 4 • Summer 17 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

GOOD LUCK!

NEWS & VIEWS

www.kidaround.biz • Summer 17• South Essex • 5

NEWS & VIEWS

National Play Day

Playday is the national day for play in the UK, traditionally held on the first Wednesday in August. This year’s Playday takes place on Wednesday 2 August. On Playday thousands of children and their families get out to play at hundreds of community events across the UK. From small-scale community events to thousands of children taking part in events organised in parks and open spaces – Playday is celebrated by each community in a way that suits them. As well as a celebration of children’s right to play, Playday is a campaign that highlights the importance of play in children’s lives. To find out more about Play Day and local events near you or if you would like to get involved, see their website: http://www.playday.org.uk/

6 • Summer 17 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

BOOKS TO READ- R EV IEWED BY LOCAL CHILDR EN The Polar Pack, The Jungle Crew and The Safari Set by Madeleine Rogers. £4.99 each. Button Books I really enjoyed these three books. They are board books so they were easy for me to turn the pages myself. The pictures are very bright and modern and fill the pages with animals. I love the colours.Each book has a different theme, a Safari, a Jungle and Polar. It showed me the different animals that live there. The words are written as poems and there are fun facts also. Any little child my age would love these books. Reviewed by Apple Blacklock, age 22 months, and her mum ‘The Unexpected Visitor’ by J. Courtney-Tickle. £6.99. Egmont The story is about a lonely fisherman who catches too many fish with no one to share them with. One day he makes friends with a whale; when they are hungry they find there are no fish left in the sea. The story ends happily with a strong message about overfishing and how important it is to take care of the creatures in the ocean. This book is beautifully illustrated with some lovely illustrations of the amazing undersea world. Reviewed by Taylor Frost, age 4 and his mummy Sky Private Eye and the Case of the Runaway Biscuit by Jane Clarke. £7.99. Five Quills. This book is a modern twist of the classic tale The Gingerbread Man. Sky saves the day and solves the fairytale mystery of the runaway biscuit. Sky, fairy-tale cupcake detective, smartly follows clues with her sidekick Snuffles the dog. Thoroughly enjoyable read with bright illustrations and a fun fairy-tale theme. You can even make Sky’s gingerbread cupcakes for fairy-tale emergencies using the secret recipe at the end of the book. Reviewed by Ella Oldacre, age 3, and her mum

NEWS & VIEWS

Brentwood Children’s Literary Festival

Last year, the team behind Chicken and Frog Bookshop launched the Brentwood Children’s Literary Festival. Over 1,300 visitors attended the festival, across the course of a week, with 16 author events taking place in various locations around Brentwood. The festival will be making a welcome return this summer, from 22nd – 30th July. The events will vary in format, from writing workshops to performances, as well as talks and book signings. So, if you love the world of books, this is the event for you. This year’s line-up has something to suit all ages, from pre-schoolers to teens. Full details can be found on the festival’s website: www. brentwoodlitfest.com .Tickets are just £3 each, with the majority of events taking place at the Brentwood Theatre. The festival is being supported by Bennetts, Brentwood Renaissance Group, Brentwood Breakfast Rotary, Brentwood Community Fund, Chicken and Frog Bookshop, Keith Ashton Estate Agents, Ken Chad Consulting, Step into Yoga, The Baytree and the Sugar Hut Group. Media partners: Brentwood Gazette, Essex Enquirer, First News and Phoenix FM. Tickets can be booked via Brentwood Theatre’s box office, on 01277 200 305. You can also purchase tickets directly from Chicken and Frog Bookshop, by visiting the shop or calling 01277 230068. If you would like to find out more about the festival, contact the team at Chicken and Frog Bookshop, who will be very happy to tell you more.

‘Alice Jones: The Ghost Light’ by Sarah Rubin. £6.99. Chicken House It was about a cast of children who rehearse at an old theatre where ghostly things suddenly start to happen. Kevin has a twin sister called Della and they are desperate to meet Matthew Strange whilst watching rehearsals for The Curse Of The Casterfields. The other characters are Vivian, Frank and Alice Jones who is a sleuth. I found the book interesting and exciting and hope you do too. Reviewed by Kimberley Starling, age 9

www.kidaround.biz • Summer 17• South Essex • 7

Summertime Fun

This great feature is full of things to do in Essex and if you fancy having fun whilst at home or out & about, here are some games that everyone can join in with!

GAMES AND ACTIVITIES FOR ALL THE FAMILY Lock the gadgets away this summer and get back to some good old fashioned fun! Keeping kids happily entertained is generally easier over the summer months – assuming the weather is good of course! Getting out into a local park or just your own garden gives children a sense of freedom, aswell as an opportunity to really burn off some energy. If they have friends over, getting them out of the house can save a lot of tidying up. Most of us have a garden littered with brightly coloured plastic toys, balls, bats, bikes, scooters, slides etc. However, children can get bored of playing with these after a while, so it’s good to have some other ideas up your sleeve..……..

Cloud spotting Simplest game ever for a cloudy day. Lie on the grass and look up at the sky. What shapes and pattern can you spot?

Hill rolling If your garden or park has a slope, have fun just rolling down it! We all remember doing this when we were young!

Water balloons Make water balloons and have fun throwing them at each other. If you make lots you can use them to play water balloon piñata by hanging them on a washing line or from a branch and hit the balloons with a stick.

DIY swing If you’ve got a strong, tall tree in your garden, hang an old tyre to a sturdy branch using some robust rope tied with a double knot. Make sure an adult tests the swing to make sure it’s strong enough.

Makeshift garden den Attach a shower curtain to a hula hoop, then hang it from a tree – and there you have a quick garden den. Add blankets and cushions to make it extra comfy. If you are feeling ambitious, why not try making a teepee?

Homemade chalk paints

Natural Art

Make or buy wash-away chalk paints and the kids can use them to draw pictures on your outdoor paving. While you’ve got the chalk paints out, you could use them to draw up a grid for the classic, eternally popular game hopscotch. If you haven’t got outdoor paving, use an old sheet instead – it’s ready to bring inside when a downpour is looming!

Allow the children to collect leaves, grass, twigs, pebbles, feathers and anything else they can find and use it to create a collage picture, pattern or sculpture – can be done individually or all together.

Sports Day This can be as simple or as complicated as you want. Start with some simple running races, and then you can try a sack race (just use a bin bag), an obstacle course, skipping or even an egg and spoon race.

Scavenger Hunt Create a checklist of outdoor objects to find such as feathers, seed pods, unusual stones and acorns. Adapt your list to your surroundings. First person back to base with all the items wins.

Treasure Hunt Hide ‘treasure’ in a sand pit or patch of soil that is free for digging. The treasure can be anything from pegs to silver foil or sweets to 1p coins. Award prizes for the pirate with most treasure.

Garden Assault Course Make your own assault course. Jump through a ‘ring of fire’ (use a hula hoop), and splash through an icy ‘river’ (paddling pool filled with cold water). Sheets are great for crawling underneath (with the corners weighted down). Other ideas: toss cuddly toys into a laundry basket, or weave between baked bean cans placed at intervals.

Water Sprinkler Fun Get the garden water sprinkler going – the kids will love running through it and cooling off. If you haven’t got a sprinkler, just hand them the hose and let them go wild and get wet.

Fill it Up Give each child a small container and see who can collect the most different things that fit in it within 5/10/20 minutes. This is a good game for older children to play in teams with younger children. 8 • Summer 17 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Crazy Hands Let the children paint their hands and feet, see who can create the wackiest designs. Then use the hose to clean the paint off and have more fun!

Rounders and racing games Simple games which are easy to play in a large park. If there are lots of you set up rounders or French Cricket - great for keeping you all active.

And a few ideas for when the weather doesn’t play ball…… Hide and Seek One of the oldest games – children have been playing it for generations – but one of the best.

Hot Potato Simply get any soft ball or rolled up socks and throw it to a child. They then have to throw it to someone else as quickly as possible. Each child repeats this. When does this game end? Who knows? Just get rid of it!

Keep the Balloon Up Incredibly simple but surprisingly popular – just blow up some balloons and tell the kids to keep the balloons from touching the floor. You’ll be amazed at how long they’ll play this game!

I Spy The classic game that you can play absolutely anywhere. Try some variations – limit the number of guesses each child gets. Or, say things like “I Spy something that is a circle.”

Board Games & Jigsaws Don’t forget all those board games you have tucked away. Our favourites are: Monopoly, Othello, Cluedo and Yahtzee. Jigsaws are a good way to fill a grey afternoon as are games such as hangman, squares and charades.

Summertime Fun RSPB Rainham Marshes

Discover a new you at RSPB Rainham Marshes The closer you are to nature, the healthier and happier you’re likely to be, according to numerous scientific and medical reports. Heart, lungs and brain all benefit when you get active outdoors and there is strong evidence that it boosts mental wellbeing too. That’s why the RSPB’s Rainham Marshes nature reserve is offering a variety of opportunities for people to escape the treadmill and take a stroll, cycle ride or try a full body workout with Nordic walking from the Purfleet visitor Centre. There is cycle hire and climbing boulders. Activities are organised to sit comfortably alongside conservation work without disturbing the wildlife, or those visiting to discover the reserve’s rich birdlife. Dart along the running or cycling routes alongside the Thames like a dragonfly over the ponds; improve or test your agility on the climbing boulders or set your mind free like the flocks of birds you’ll discover. Regular activities are on offer such as the Sunday Rainham Harriers Running club or one-off taster sessions. Whatever your ability, you’ll find inspiration and support in a safe and rich environment. On Saturday 29 July you are invited to the Big Wild Sleepout. Grab your tent and sleeping bag for a unique out of hours stay on the reserve. There will be a guided walk to discover the marshes’ nocturnal wonders, then drift off to sleep amid the whispering rushes before waking with nature to enjoy a yummy cooked breakfast in the cafe. For more details, prices and to book, call or check the website! RSPB Rainham Marshes, New Tank Hill Road, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ Tel: 01708 899 840 Email: rainham.marshes@rspb.org.uk Web: www.rspb.org.uk/rainhammarshes

The Essex Sunshine Coast

The Essex Sunshine Coast - Brightlingsea, Clacton-on-Sea, Dovercourt, Frinton-on-Sea, Harwich, Jaywick Sands, Manningtree, Mistley, St Osyth and Walton-on-the-Naze. The surrounding area boasts picturesque villages steeped in a wealth of history surrounded by beautiful unspoiled country landscapes. With over 36 miles of coastline, the stunning seafront offers the traditions of the seaside with a modern twist. There are many events that take place throughout the year in and around the Essex Sunshine Coast, from the award winning Clacton Airshow held annually in August to carnivals, car shows, seaside festivals, fun family cycle rides and regattas. When the fresh sea air whets your appetite, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to fish and chip shops, cafés and coffee shops, where you can relax and watch the world go by. The main towns offer a unique selection of independent shops as well as popular high street names. Accommodation ranges from holiday parks and bed and breakfasts to boutique and luxury hotels, where prices remain competitive. With easy links by road, train, coach, ferry and plane, and the centre of London only an hour or so away, it is an easily accessible destination for that much needed getaway. You can park for free in Council run car parks (except The Naze and Holland Haven) between 6pm - 8am. For local information and events details log on to www.essex-sunshine-coast.org.uk and for Clacton Airshow log on to www.clactonairshow.com Social media links: Facebook: TheSunshineCoastOfficial Twitter: @ClactonAirshow

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www.kidaround.biz • Summer 17 • South Essex • 9

Summertime Fun A great day out by Tube, steam train and bus!

The Wind in the Willows at Hylands House

The Epping Ongar Railway is a unique attraction in London, being the only regular steam railway easily reached by Tube. As well as steam trains, the Railway runs regular vintage buses, included in your fare, which will collect you from right outside Epping Underground on the Central Line. This means that if you want an easy day out with the kids where you can see a steam train and ride on old-fashioned buses, then the Epping Ongar Railway must be the place that you will choose this summer. The Railway also hosts a series of special events throughout the summer. This year the fun includes Postman Pat, Chase & Marshall and the Gruffalo and Victorian Weekend. The Railway is open every weekend until the end of October and also on Wednesdays during August. For more information see www.eorailway.co.uk or call 01277 365200

Monday 28th August Join Ratty, Mole, Badger and Mr Toad on the back lawn of Hylands House for this year’s family theatre. Pack your picnic and join the boat-loving Ratty, the sensible yet curious Mole, wise old Badger and the fantastically irrepressible Toad as they embark on the adventure of a lifetime, culminating in a colourful battle with the sly weasel to save Toad Hall! Eye-catching costumes, toe-tapping music and larger than life characters promise to capture the imagination of the youngest of audience members, whilst the sheer nostalgic charm of this beloved story is guaranteed to take older generations on a glorious trip down the riverbank onto memory lane. The perfect summer treat for all the family! Doors open at 1pm.take a chair or blanket and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Refreshments available. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/hylandsbookings

Lathcoats Farm

Lathcoats Farm is a great place to visit in the summer. From around mid June to the end of July you can pick your own summer fruits (check for availability before travelling) and some time in August the first of 40 varieties of apple arrive, ready picked, in the farm shop from their orchards. The Bee Shed Coffee House offers great coffee, homemade cakes and light lunches and the farm’s pet donkeys, pigs and goats are always pleased to see you! For more information visit www.eapples.co.uk/ or call them on 01245 353021

10 • Summer 17 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Summertime Fun The V&A Museum of Childhood The V&A Museum of Childhood is the home of the national childhood collection. The galleries reveal how children have learnt, played and lived over the centuries, with a fascinating collection of toys, games, art and design for kids, dolls’ houses, furniture, paintings and clothes. This summer you can enjoy a new exhibition showcasing one of Britain’s best loved story makers. Michael Morpurgo: A Lifetime in Stories opens on 22 July. Explore the secrets behind Michael’s storytelling through his original drafts, adaptations, scripts and unpublished manuscripts; see the notebooks and manuscripts that became the classics we know today including War Horse, Private Peaceful, Kensuke’s Kingdom and Farm Boy. Meet Joey, the original life-size West End horse puppet from the National Theatre’s awardwinning stage adaptation of War Horse and see original illustrations by, amongst others, Quentin Blake and Michael Foreman. Don’t miss the annual Summer Festival on Sunday 23 July when there will be a colourful mix of entertainment including live music, dance and walkabout acts, as well as designer stalls, food, face paints, henna, rickshaw rides, games and lots for kids to make and do. There is also a series of free events happening every Friday in August: Summertime Story Weaving Family days will be led by artists, writers and musicians, celebrating children’s literature and storytelling. See website for details on all exhibitions, events and family activities happening this summer: www.vam.ac.uk/moc/ whatson You’ll find the Museum in vibrant East London, just 3 minutes from Bethnal Green tube, which is one stop on the Central line from Liverpool Street Station. V&A Museum of Childhood, Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9PA Entry is free.

Barleylands Farm

Six Weeks of Summer – A new adventure every week! Keep the kids entertained and get out and about this summer with a new adventure to enjoy every week at Barleylands Farm Park in Billericay. There’s six weeks of fun with a host of different activities to enjoy from bug hunting, bird spotting and treasure hunts to magic mayhem and circus skills workshops. With something different to do every week of the school summer holidays, the six weeks of fun are: • Go Wild: (24th - 28th July) Bug hunt and bird spotting in the new aviary. Native bird of prey display and make a bird feeder • Animal Magic: (31st July - 4th August) Variety of animal themed interactive activities, petting, grooming and special talks • Treasure Hunters: (7th - 11th August) Take part in a family self-led treasure hunt, use your map and compass, solve the clues to find Old Gold Creek and pan for gold • Magic & Mayhem: (14th – 18th August) Back by popular demand Skittle Man and Colonel Custard return with bonkers fun and crazy shows • Rumble in the Jungle: (21st - 25th August) Meet jungle creatures in a host of interactive shows by the Snakes Alive Team • Barley Fest: (28th August - 1st September) It’s the first family festival – don’t miss all the entertainment and activities. Indoor and outdoor activities with something to do whatever the weather! Don’t forget to take a look around The Village during your visit – adjacent to the Farm Park, it’s the perfect place to browse more than 50 craft studios, shops and boutiques and enjoy a tasty treat in the Tiptree Tea Rooms. Plenty of free parking. Book your Farm Park tickets online to save 10% www.barleylands.co.uk

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www.kidaround.biz • Summer 17 • South Essex • 11

DANCE

Dance classes at Fusion in Hutton. Held at the Scout Hall, Wash Road. Different styles of dance with optional exams and shows. 07817 983863 info@fusiondanceschool.co.uk www.fusiondanceschool.co.uk

DRAMA/PERFORMING ARTS

Academy Arts Epping Saturdays @

Epping St Johns School, Bury Lane CM16-5JB. 01245 422595 info@ academyarts.co.uk www.academyarts.co.uk Academy Kids: 9.00am-9.45am (Ages 3-4yrs) Academy Kids :9.00am10.30am (Foundation-yr 2). 01245 422595 info@academyarts.co.uk www.academyarts.co.uk Academy Arts Theatre School: 10.301.30pm (Age 7-21yrs). 01245 422595 info@academyarts.co.uk www.academyarts.co.uk Academy Arts Chelmsford Saturdays @ Chelmsford County High School, Broomfield Rd, CM1 1RW. 01245 422595 info@academyarts.co.uk www.academyarts.co.uk. Academy Kids: 9.00am-9.45am (Ages 3-4yrs). Academy Kids: :9-10.30am (Foundation-yr 2). 01245 422595 info@academyarts.co.uk www.academyarts.co.uk.

RUGBY

Little Scrummers Rugby Tag rugby for 2-6yrs across 3 counties. FREE TRIAL www.littlescrummers.com tel: 0330 0881172

School Holiday Activities

Belchamps Scout Activity Centre

Holyoak Ln, Hawkwell, Hockley SS5 4JD 01702 562690 www.belchamps.org.uk Barley Fest Mon 28 (Aug) – Fri 1 (Sep)A family festival at Barleylands with entertainment and activities. 10am – 5pm. www.barleylands.co.uk/ Barracudas the UK’s No.1 children’s activity camp offering fantastic activities for 4.5-14 years at 40 locations for Easter and summer. 0845 1235299 www.barracudas.co.uk Chillout Holiday Club (Mon-Fri) Adventurous activities for 8-16yr olds. £7.50 per child per session, £16 per child all day. Thriftwood Scout Centre, Orchard Ave, Brentwood, CM13 2DP Tel: 01277 212784

SWIMMING

Tina Franklin Swim School Chelmsford County High School. Mondays/Fridays after-school and Saturday mornings. All abilities. Tina Franklin 01245 265919 or 0782 869 1097 or email tinafranklin@blueyonder.co.uk

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

PLAY

Belchamps Scout Activity Centre

Holyoak Ln, Hawkwell, Hockley SS5 4JD 01702 562690 www.belchamps.org.uk Little Monkees Unique, safe, clean, fully-padded play area. Structured sessions, from 4 months - 3yrs. Upminster: Tues, Hornchurch: Wed, Billericay: Thurs, Hutton: Fri. 01277 211065 or 07837 170602

12 • Summer 17 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

SCHOOL’S OUT

Barracudas

“Giving every child such an amazing experience they can’t wait to come back!” Superb summer camps at 39 locations Fantastic range of activities for ages 4.5 to 14 years The best staff:child ratios of any comparable provider Extended hours from 8am6pm A brilliant childcare option for working parents. Childcare vouchers are accepted as payment! Barracudas, the UK’s No 1 children’s activity camp offers peace of mind for working parents during the summer holidays. After a successful Easter, Barracudas are extremely excited for summer camps to start, with 39 locations operating this year. With actionpacked programmes and a choice of varied activities including archery, fencing, motor sports, arts & crafts, dance & drama, there is plenty to keep your children entertained! As well as all the above activities there is fantastic roaming equipment that visits camps, including the bungee run, rodeo bull and the giant wipe-out! So where is your nearest camp? Bishop’s Stortford, Chelmsford, Chigwell, Harlow, Hutton, Upminster and Woodford. New for summer 2017 - Romford! *Dates vary between camps so please see the website Booking your child into Barracudas for summer 2017 couldn’t be easier! You can call on 0845 123 5299 or visit www.barracudas.co.uk.

Topgolf: Fun for all your family Topgolf Chigwell is a premier sports entertainment venue that provides fun for all the family, where you can challenge one another to addictive point-scoring golf games that anyone can play. Just picture a 240-yard outfield with dartboard-like targets in the ground. The closer to the centre or ‘bull’s-eye’ you get your microchipped ball, the more points you get. Score even bigger with Topgolf’s extensive food and drink menu, served to you by the Bay Hosts. During school holidays, the Eat, Drink, Play deal offers two games of Topgolf, a meal and drink, Monday to Friday 11am-1pm and again from 4pm-6pm. Topgolf isn’t just for people who know their putters from their drivers but if your children love golf, Topgolf Junior Camps are the perfect introduction to the sport. Led by Topgolf’s PGA coaches, the sessions offer a safe, friendly and fun environment to learn the game and make new friends.

Visit www.topgolf.com/EDP for more information or call 0208 500 2644 to speak to a friendly associate. Follow for all the latest news and offers: @TopgolfUK FB.com/topgolfchigwell

www.kidaround.biz • Summer 17 • South Essex • 13

SCHOOL’S OUT

Belchamps Scout Activity Centre

Belchamps Scout Activity Centre in Hawkwell, Essex was opened in 1936 to provide camping and activities for local scouting. A lot has changed since then and now the site has a wide variety of activities including Rock Climbing, High Ropes, Archery, Water Zorbing, Bushcraft, Pedal Karting, an Assault Course, and six different inflatables! During the school holidays the holiday club offers an actionpacked day with any six activities for kids aged between 8 and 16. Places are limited so be sure to call to reserve places! Birthday parties are available all year round, tailored to suit your needs, with any of the activities, and catering options available to take all of the hassle out of your next birthday party! Reception is open from 9:00 - 20:00 Monday - Friday and 9:00 - 17:00 on weekends; call 01702 562690 or email info@belchamps.org.uk for any enquiries.

14 • Summer 17 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

SCHOOL’S OUT

Templesprings Summer Music Camp 2017 Children aged 7-14 years can enjoy a week-long musical experience that will inspire, challenge, thrill and delight all. The Camp will be a unique learning opportunity that will help them build their confidence, selfesteem and life skills such as communication, teamwork, and leadership. Children will make new friends and try new activities, but most of all have lots of fun! Activities Learn to play different musical instruments (drums, keyboard, guitar) Improve singing, dancing and dramatic improvisation skills Have fun with arts and crafts and explore new interests Take part in an exciting day trip to a place of culture Win big in a variety of competitions Computer Coding Club Perform in The Final Jamzz Mini Concert A safe and well organized program is offered for local children to enjoy. All staff and volunteers are DBS Cleared. Prices and offers for 2017 Current special offers and discounted prices are shown below. Book now to secure your preferred dates at the best prices. All offers are subject to availability.

WEEK 24 – 28 July

WEEKLY PRICE £150

OFFER £120 (Saving £30)

31 – 4 August

£150

£120 (Saving £30)

Each camp day runs from 9am to 3pm with children bringing their packed lunch You have the opportunity of booking an additional half an hour in the morning or/and afternoon. Please enquire about cost. Book by 7th July for an early bird promotional offer of £120, otherwise the price will be £150. Closing date is 18th July. To secure your early bird discount text TSC17 to 07557 988246

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www.kidaround.biz • Summer 17 • South Essex • 15

Diary Dates Use our comprehensive list of events to ensure your family time is packed full of fun this Summer. Sun 2

Summer Fair Inflatables, trampolines, pirate ship themed playground, games. 11am5pm. Entry £2; under 3s free. Haven House Children’s Hospice, Woodford Green, IG8 9LB www.havenhouse.org.uk/summerfair

Sun 2 Steam Day Mon 19 Little Lapwings Outdoor fun and early learning for toddlers. Meets Mondays 9.30-10.30am. £2 or £1 for RSPB members. Rainham Marshes Nature Reserve, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ. 01708 899840. www.rspb.org.uk/rainham

Mon 19 Wild Beach Seashore based wildlife day. 10am12.30pm. Chalkwell Beach, Southend, SS0 8JQ. www.visitessex.com BE

Sat 24 & Sun 25 Victorian Weekend A taste of the Victorian era with reenactment groups and a Victorian Curiosity Show and all steam services. £8 child/£15 adult, £39/family. Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar & North Weald Stations. 01277 365200. www.eorailway.co.uk

Sat 24 Letterpress Printing Workshop To celebrate the opening of a new exhibition, join this special workshop where you can create your own print. Age 7+. 1.30pm – 4.30pm. Epping Forest District Museum, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1EL. 01992 716882. www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/museum

Free Event

Steam rides and model railways. 10.30am-4pm. 50p a ride or £3 all day pass. Chadwell Heath Station, RM6 4BU. www.iwemrc.org.uk/home.asp

Sat 8

Fun Day Outdoor fun and games, local craft activities and rides. Free event but some rides chargeable. 10am-4pm. The Temple, Wanstead Park, London E11 2LT. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

Sat 8 Heybridge Basin Regatta Sea and land activities for the family. Heybridge Basin, CM9 4RX. www.visitessex.com

Sat 8 Glow Worm Walk Take a twilight walk to find the mystical glow worms. Age: 7yrs+. 9.30-11pm. £6. Chafford Gorges Nature Park, RM16 6RW. www.essexwt.org.uk

Sun 9 Family Fun Run 5k fun run around Gunners Park. Open to all ages/abilities. Start 9.30am. Entry £5 entries accepted on the day. East Beach Shoeburyness, SS3 9AD. www.havenshospices.org.uk

Sat 15 & Sun 16 London Transport Weekend Have a taste of the Underground days, featuring the famous Met1 steam locomotive. £8 child/£15 adult, £39/ family. Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar & North Weald Stations. 01277 365200. www.eorailway.co.uk

Sat 15 Summer Market Stalls and children’s activities, bouncy castle, face painting, garden area. 1pm -4pm. Wick Community Centre, Wickford, SS12 9NR. www.wherecanwego.com

Free Entry

16 • Summer 17 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Sun 16 Wings & Wheels Cars, bikes, military vehicles, aircraft displays, children’s funfair and activities. Adult: £5, under 12s free. Damyns Hall Aerodrome, Upminster, RM14 2TN. www.wherecanwego.com

Fri 21 Late Night Opening & Moth Night Explore the marshes at night and help look for moths. 9-11.30pm. £2. Rainham Marshes Nature Reserve, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ. 01708 899840. www.rspb.org.uk/rainham

Fri 21 Family Bat Walk Look for bats using bat detectors. Suitable for families. £6 (under 2s free). 8pm-9:30pm. Visitor Centre, Weald Country Park, Brentwood, CM14 5QS. 01277 261 343 www.visitparks.co.uk

Sat 22 – Thur 31 (Aug) Family Fun Including pond dipping, minibeasting and a self guided adventure trail. £1.50/person. Rainham Marshes Nature Reserve, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ. 01708 899840. www.rspb.org.uk/rainham

Sat 22 – Sun 30 Children’s Literary Festival Well-known children’s authors will talk about their books. Various venues in Brentwood. www.brentwoodlitfest.com

Sat 22 & Sun 23 Archikids Festival Explore places and spaces with architecturally-inspired activities. Age: 5 – 11yrs, accompanied. 10am-5pm. City of London Square Mile. www.archikids.org.uk

Free Event 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 next issue, please email the details to: diarydates@kidaround.biz

Sat 22 – Sun 3 (Sept) Nature Explorers Trail

Mon 24 – Fri 28 Go Wild

Self-guided walk, looking for trail markers and solving puzzles. Age: 6-12yrs, accompanied. £3/trail booklet. 10am-4pm. Visitor Centre, Belhus Woods Country Park, South Ockendon, RM15 4XJ. 01708 865 628 www.visitparks.co.uk

Bug hunt and bird spotting. Bird of prey display and make a bird feeder. 10am – 5pm. Barleylands Farm Park, Billericay, CM11 2UD. www.barleylands.co.uk

Sat 22 – Sun 3 (Sept) Wildlife Footprints Trail

Experiment with different techniques from tile painting to fabric design, and achieve Discover level of Art Award. Please wear old clothes and bring a packed lunch. 10.30am – 3.30pm. Age 7+. £8. Epping Forest District Museum, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1EL. 01992 564226. www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/museum

Self-guided walk, looking for trail markers and solving puzzles. Age: 6-12yrs, accompanied. £3/ trail booklet. 9am-3pm. Pavillion Café,Thorndon South, Brentwood, CM13 3LW. 01277 211 250 www.visitparks.co.uk

Sun 23 Family Bike Ride Join a forest keeper for a family led bike ride. All riders must be competent in riding and helmets are essential. 11am – 4pm. £3.50. Bury Road Car Park, Epping Forest, E4 7QJ. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

Mon 24 Discover Your Inner Artist

Tue 25 Fun with Clay

Visit the museum and join in our dropin printmaking craft activity. All ages, must be accompanied. 12noon – 3pm. £1.50/child. Epping Forest District Museum, 39-41 Sun Street, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1EL. 01992 716882. www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/museum

Sun 23 Summer Festival

Tue 25 Wild About Wetlands

Including music, dance, walkabout acts, stalls and face paints. Suitable all ages. 11.30am – 4.30pm. Museum of Childhood, London, E2 9PA. www.vam.ac.uk/moc/events/vamuseum-childhoods-summer-festival/.

Free Event

Sun 23 Nature Quest Activities including pond dipping, bug hunting, seed planting, willow weaving, balloon modelling, crafts. 11am-4pm. The Wick Country Park, Wickford, SS12 9GP. www.friendsofthewickcountrypark.co.uk

Free Event

Mon 24 – Fri 1 (Sept) Banknote Detectives Use your detective skills to solve puzzles. Talks on banknotes on Tues and Thurs at 1pm. 10am-4.30pm MonFri. Bank of England Museum, London EC2R 8AH. 020 7601 5545. www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum.

Free Event

Family activity day, including nature and wildlife arts and crafts, falconry, pets corner, face painting. 10am3.30pm. Waltham Abbey Gardens, EN9 1QX. www.visitleevalley.org.uk

Tue 25 Get In! City Camps Activity camp for children aged 4 to 12. £30 per day/£15 half day. Hylands House, London Road, Chelmsford, CM2 8WQ. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/citycamps

Wed 26 Scrapbook Safari Explore the Estate and then assemble your scrapbook in the workshop. Age: 5-11yrs. 10am-12pm. £5/child. Hylands Park, Chelmsford, CM2 8WQ. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/scrapbooksafari

Wed 26 Raft Building and Racing Make your own raft out of natural material, then race them across the lake. 10.30-11.30am. £6. Chafford Gorges Nature Park, RM16 6RW. www.essexwt.org.uk

Thur 27 Archikids Festival. Sat 22nd & Sun 23rd July. City of London Square Mile

Be an Illustrator Discover different types of illustration from children’s books to comics, character design to game design. 10.30am – 12.30pm. Age 8+. £8. Epping Forest District Museum, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1EL. 01992 564226. www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/museum

Fri 28 – Sun 30 Real Ale Weekend Cask beers, ciders and music – with an intensive bus and train service during the day. Standard fares apply. £13 adults, £7 children, £34 family. Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar & North Weald Stations. 01277 365200. www.eorailway.co.uk

Sat 29 Big Wild Sleepout Explore the Reserve and discover birds, moths, stars and more. 6pm-9am. £30 (£25 for RSPB members), Children: £15 (£12.50 for RSPB members). Rainham Marshes Nature Reserve, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ. 01708 899840. www.rspb.org.uk/rainham

Sat 29 Pond Dipping Find out what’s lurking beneath the water! 10am, 11.15am & 12.30pm. £2. Highams Park Lake, Woodford Green, IG8 9RE. www.eventbrite.co.uk

Sun 30 Wind in the Willows Open air adaptation of the children’s classic, with music, songs and audience interaction. Bring a picnic. £8/child, £12/adult, £32/family, under 3’s free. 4pm- 6:30pm. Weald Country Park, Brentwood, CM14 5QS. 01277 261 343 www.facebook.com/ wealdcountrypark

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www.kidaround.biz • Summer 17 • South Essex • 17

Sun 30 Sea Festival

Sat 5 Family Fun Day

Thur 10 Tracking and Hunting

Family fun both on and off the water. 11am. Harwich Quay. www.essex-sunshine-coast.org.uk

Including puppet shows, willow weaving and more. All ages welcome, must be accompanied. 11am – 4pm. Epping Forest District Museum, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1EL. 01992 716882. www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/museum

Discover how our ancestors tracked and hunted and make a throwing arrow. Age: 8 – 12 yrs, must be accompanied. Wild lunch provided. 10am -1pm. £10. Barn Hoppitt car park, London E4 7QH. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk BE

Free Event

Mon 31 – Fri 4 (Aug) Animal Magic Animal themed interactive activities including petting, grooming, and talks. 10am – 5pm. Barleylands Farm Park, Billericay, CM11 2UD. www.barleylands.co.uk

Free Event

Sat 5 Maldon Carnival Carnival queens, floats, majorettes and marching bands. High Street, Maldon. www.maldoncarnival.co.uk

Sat 5 Hen Harrier Day This event celebrates hen harriers and publicises their plight. Speeches from guest speakers, family fun activities and more. 11am-12.30pm. Rainham Marshes Nature Reserve, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ. 01708 899840. www.rspb.org.uk/rainham

Fri 11 Journey of Joey See Joey the puppet from War Horse and join in activities and events inspired by him. Suitable all ages. 11am–4pm. Museum of Childhood, London, E2 9PA. www.vam.ac.uk/moc/events/ summertime-storyweaving/.

Free Event

Fri 11 Campfire Cooking

Free Event

Learn how to build a fire, then cook popcorn and bannock bread. 8-9.30pm. £6. Chafford Gorges Nature Park, RM16 6RW. www.essexwt.org.uk

Mon 7 – Fri 11 Treasure Hunters

Sat 12 & Sun 13 Vintage Steam Rally

Family self-led treasure hunt. Use your map and compass to solve the clues to find Old Gold Creek and pan for gold. 10am – 5pm. Barleylands Farm Park, Billericay, CM11 2UD. www.barleylands.co.uk

Steam traction engines and classic cars at North Weald Station. £8 child/£15 adult, £39/family. Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar & North Weald Stations. 01277 365200. www.eorailway.co.uk

Tue 8 - Thur 10 Inflatable Park

Sat 12 Community Fun Day

Follow the dinosaur bones round the reserve answering dinosaur questions, plus dig out your own dinosaur fossil. 10.30-11.45am/12-1.15pm. £6. Chafford Gorges Nature Park, RM16 6RW. www.essexwt.org.uk

Children’s wristbands include unlimited bounce on the inflatables, disco with party dances for everyone and a chance to meet King Bob the Minion or Dizzy Dragon! 11am-1.30pm & 2pm4.30pm. £5 per session, £3.50 under 3’s. Hylands House, London Road, Chelmsford, CM2 8WQ. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/hylands

Craft stalls, archery, storytelling, dog show, games and activities. Bring a picnic. 11am-3pm. Belhus Woods Country Park, South Ockendon, RM15 4XJ. 01708 865 628 www.visitparks.co.uk

Fri 4 Folk Family Day

Wed 9 Arts and the Garden

Family friendly music festival with children’s activities between 11am5pm. Wrabness, CO11 2TG. www.wrabfest.co.uk

Tue 1 Tudor Coat of Arms Visit the museum and make a Coat of Arms. All ages welcome, must be accompanied. 12– 3pm. £1.50. Epping Forest District Museum, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1EL. 01992 716882. www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/museum

Wed 2 Dinosaurs in the Gorge

Musical events and performances. Suitable all ages. 11am – 4pm. Museum of Childhood, London, E2 9PA. www.vam.ac.uk/moc/events/ summertime-storyweaving/.

Free Event

Sat 5 & Sun 6 PAW Patrol Chase and Marshall from PAW Patrol return to visit the Railway with appearances throughout the day at North Weald and other activities. £8 child/£15 adult, £39/family. Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar & North Weald Stations, 01277 365200, www.eorailway.co.uk

18 • Summer 17 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Learn how to draw plants, using the museum garden for inspiration. Please wear old clothes and closed footwear. 10.30am-12pm. Age 7+. £8. Epping Forest District Museum, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1EL. 01992 564226. www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/museum

Wed 9 Picnic and Play Storytelling, puppet show, trail and outdoor games. Bring a picnic. Age: 2-12yrs. 11am-4pm. £3. Belhus Woods Country Park, South Ockendon, RM15 4XJ. 01708 865 628 www.visitparks.co.uk

Free Event Sat 12 Wrabfest

Mon 14 – Fri 18 Magic & Mayhem Skittleman & Colonel Custard return with fun and shows! 10am – 5pm. Barleylands Farm Park, Billericay, CM11 2UD. www.barleylands.co.uk

Wed 16 Minibeast Mania Go on a minibeast safari, using equipment provided for a close up view. 1-3pm. £4.50. Waltham Abbey Gardens, EN9 1QX. www.visitleevalleyorg.uk BE

Fri 18 Morpurgo’s Menagerie

Thur 24 & Fri 25 Air Show

Wildlife themed activities with animals from Spitalfields City Farm. Suitable all ages. 11am – 4pm. Museum of Childhood, London, E2 9PA. www.vam.ac.uk/moc/events/ summertime-storyweaving/.

Including Red Arrows display, plus entertainment. Thur: 11am-8.30pm, Fri: 11am-5pm. Marine Parade West, Clacton on Sea, CO15 1NW. www.clactonairshow.com

Free Event

Sat 19 & Sun 20 Country Show Arena displays, classic cars, stalls and sideshows. Purleigh Halt, CM9 6PF. www.purleighcountryshow.com

Sat 19 & Sun 20 The Gruffalo Making his first visit to the Railway along with a display of birds of prey from the Epping Forest Hawk and Owl Sanctuary. £8 child/£15 adult, £39/ family. Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar & North Weald Stations. 01277 365200. www.eorailway.co.uk

Sat 19 Smoke and Fire Festival A celebration of the art of cooking with fire and smoke, plus music and children’s entertainment. Promenade Park, Maldon. www.smokeandfirefestival.com

Free Entry

Sun 20 Animal Aid Festival Stalls, live bands, dog competitions, children’s entertainment. 10am5.30pm. Herongate Cricket Field, Brentwood, CM13 3NY. www.visitessex.com

Free Entry

Mon 21 – Fri 25 Rumble in the Jungle Meet jungle creatures in interactive shows by the Snakes Alive team. 10am – 5pm. Barleylands Farm Park, Billericay, CM11 2UD www.barleylands.co.uk

Wed 23 Owl Night Owls will demonstrate their natural behaviours. Suitable all ages. 7.309pm. £5. Belfairs Woodland Centre, Leigh on Sea, SS9 4LR. www.visitessex.com

Wed 23 Teddy Bear’s Picnic Bug hunting, crafts, nature trails. Bring your teddy bear and a picnic. Age: 3-6yrs. 12 – 2pm. £3. Linders Field, Buckhurst Hill, IG9 5RQ. www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/out-andabout/countrycare BE

Free Event

Thur 24 Water and Shelter Discover how to find and clean water and the importance of shelter using manmade and natural methods. Age: 8 – 12 yrs, must be accompanied. 10am -1pm. £10. Wild lunch provided. Barn Hoppitt car park, E4 9QH. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk BE

Fri 25 Little Word Weaving Join in a collaborative word sculpture and play with words, letters and sounds. Suitable all ages. 11am – 4pm. Museum of Childhood, London, E2 9PA. www.vam.ac.uk/moc/events/ summertime-storyweaving/.

Free Event

Mon 28 – Fri 1 (Sep) Barley Fest A family festival with entertainment and activities. 10am – 5pm. Barleylands Farm Park, Billericay, CM11 2UD. www.barleylands.co.uk

Mon 28 The Wind in The Willows Outdoor theatre. Join in the adventure to save Toad Hall! 2pm. £10 adults, £8 children and concessions. Hylands House, London Road, Chelmsford, CM2 8WQ. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/willows

Thur 31 The Comedy of Errors Outdoor production of Shakespeare’s most hilarious farce. £15 adults, £8 children. Hylands House, London Road, Chelmsford, CM2 8WQ. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/hylands BE

Fri 1 - Sun 10 FriendsFest Get ready for the ultimate Friends experience! Hylands Estate, London Road. Chelmsford. CM2 8WQ. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/hylands BE

Fri 1 Art of Books Day Discover the world of book design and illustration with London Centre for Book Arts. Suitable all ages. 11am4pm. Museum of Childhood, London, E2 9PA. www.vam.ac.uk/moc/events/ summertime-storyweaving/.

Free Event

Fri 1 Bat and Moth Night Explore with bat detectors and a moth light. 7-11 pm. £8 adult (£6 for RSPB members); £4 child (£3 RSPB members). Rainham Marshes Nature Reserve, Purfleet, RM19 1SZ. 01708 899840. www.rspb.org.uk/rainham. BE

Sun 3 Classic Car Show Classic car show plus train rides. Standard fares apply - £13 adults, £7 children, £34 family. Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar & North Weald Stations. 01277 365200. www.eorailway.co.uk

Sun 10 Classic Car Show Plus entertainment and family fun. 10am-4pm. Walton on the Naze. www.essex-sunshine-coast.org.uk

Free Event

Sun 10 Red & Green Rover Special bus running day with lots of classic and special buses. Standard train fares apply - £13 adults, £7 children, £34 family. Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar & North Weald Stations. 01277 365200. www.eorailway.co.uk

DON’T FORGET TO MENTION US WHEN CALLING

www.kidaround.biz • Summer 17 • South Essex • 19

CHELMSFORD TopClass Tutoring

Private tuition for children aged 7-11. All subjects, all abilities. Chelmsfordbased. Call Helen Ashdown on 01245 422233 or 07595 154821 www. topclasstutoring.co.uk 11+ ENG ICT LAN MAT SAT SCI SEN

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BILLERICAY Kip McGrath

Professional tuition in Maths, English, 11+, other entry exams. From Reception to GCSE. Ofsted registered. For a free educational assessment call 01277 621515 www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/billericay 11+ ENG MAT SEN

BRENTWOOD Kip McGrath

Professional tuition in Maths, English, 11+, other entry exams. From Reception to GCSE. Ofsted Registered. Childcare vouchers accepted. For a free educational assessment call 01277 200919 www.tutoringbrentwood.co.uk

Offers children aged 4-16 years professional tuition for Maths, English, and exam preparation. Phone for a FREE assessment on 01702 615838 219 Hamstel Rd, SS2 4LB 11+ ENG MAT SAT SCI

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Offers children aged 4-16 years professional tuition for Maths, English, and exam preparation. Phone for a FREE assessment on 01702 557177. 333 London Road, Hadleigh, SS7 2BT 11+ ENG MAT SAT SEN SCI

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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

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A smooth start to school

Starting primary and secondary school are huge milestones in your child’s life and will likely involve a wide range of emotions for you and your child. We have put together a few of our favourite tips to help with the transition:

Our primary school tips • • • • •

Label everything as it’s amazing what your child can lose! Pack a spare pair of pants in their bag at the start of reception year Read with your child as often as you can. It helps them and the teachers will be pleased with you! If your child can dress themselves this is a real bonus. If they struggle with buttons maybe opt for poppers. Velcro on shoes and trainers is much quicker Get involved if you can. Primary school is a time when you can really be involved in the school and get to know the teachers. You can help out with reading, school trips and fundraising events. It’s a great way to get to know other parents too

Our secondary school tips

Talk to other parents with children at the school and join any facebook groups run by the school or PTA • Find out about transport as soon as your child has their place allocated. Your child may need to make their own way. If they will be using a school bus find out if you need to book a space and if there will be a charge • Get all uniform and other equipment in good time, don’t leave it until the last minute. Make sure all your purchases meet the school guidelines • Be organized. Secondary school will usually mean getting up earlier, a longer journey, more kit and more homework. This will be less stressful if you plan ahead • Remind your child that friendships take time and that they shouldn’t worry if they haven’t made a friend as soon as they start their new school Most importantly remember this is an exciting journey for both of you so enjoy it and good luck! •

20 • Summer 17 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

EDUCATION

Kip McGrath

So we all know the story of Goldilocks and The Three Bears? But I bet you’ve never heard the Kip McGrath version…. There was once a shy and quiet child named Gracie. Part of the reason she was struggling to be heard was that she was lacking in confidence. She often made mistakes with her schoolwork and worried that if she got things wrong the teacher would be cross and she would look stupid in front of her friends. Gracie also felt that her friends were able to understand things a lot faster than she could and was worried that they wouldn’t want to be her friend anymore. Gracie found out that some of the children in her school were getting extra help. Some were planning on taking their 11+ and were receiving tutoring from their local Kip McGrath Education Centre. However, that wasn’t for Gracie; she was struggling with normal class work! That would be far too hard for her. Rumours about younger children in Key Stage One having help with their phonics and reading from Kip McGrath confused Gracie. Not only did they help push the brightest children in school, they also helped children to read. This would be far too easy for her, she could read well and was a free reader in school! That’s when mum announced to Gracie that she was booked in for a free assessment at Kip McGrath. Gracie was very worried. She wasn’t able enough to do the 11+, that was far too hard for her! She definitely did not want to learn her phonics again and didn’t need much help with her reading either, as that would be far too easy for her! When she attended her assessment at Kip McGrath and met with the helpful and kind Centre Directors, Gracie knew she was in the right place. They listened to her and assessed her to see where they could support and assist with her learning. They spent time to personalise a program of study JUST FOR HER. It was perfect and just right for her needs. It wasn’t too easy and it wasn’t too hard. Soon that shy and quiet girl at school became happier and confident! She even moved up a group in her class. Kip McGrath personalise and design lessons for the individual child and make it just right for them. They listen. They understand. They help. Book your child in for a free assessment today at your nearest Kip McGrath and be astounded at how they can make your child’s tutoring just right.

DON’T FORGET TO MENTION US WHEN CALLING

www.kidaround.biz • Summer 17 • South Essex • 21

Family

GETAWAYS READY TO GET AWAY WITH THE FAMILY FOR A WELL-EARNED BREAK? HERE’S SOME IDEAS FOR COST EFFECTIVE PLACES TO STAY HERE AND AWAY!

Going Abroad

Campsite holidays are a cost-efficient way to take your family abroad. Most holiday packages include transport in their price and many have self-catering options available, which means you and your family could save money by cooking your own meals. Our editor, Suzanne, recommends a chalet campsite called Domaine le Saint Laurent in Brittany, France. Here’s what she thought: “Several years ago I took my family (husband and two daughters, aged 5 and 10 years at the time) to a chalet campsite called Domaine le Saint Laurent in Brittany, France. Our chalet was small and basic but clean, with two bedrooms, shower room, kitchen and eating area. The campsite had excellent swimming facilities: outdoor and indoor

money saving tips on package holidays abroad: http://www.moneysavingexpert. com/travel/cheap-holiday-hagglingguide. Booking late is the cheapest way to get a package holiday. ‘Late’ means no more than 8-10 weeks before departure, when the bargains flood in. However, the longer you wait the more you need to be flexible about dates and destinations. So if creche facilities or a specific hotel are must-haves, be careful. If you just want somewhere hot and cheap, leave it very late, ie, the week before you go, and you may get great trips for dirt-cheap prices. The other way to get discounts is to book early, as much as nine months in advance, because many tour operators offer early booking discounts. These can include £100 per couple discounts or buy-one-get-one-free weeks. Prices for package holidays drop rapidly towards the end of August – this is likely to be because most people want to go as soon as they can. And many people don’t want to be away the week before schools go back, so if you can leave it to the very last minute you’ll likely save. Do your research, there are many sites out there that can tailor packages for you which can work out very cost effective - do make sure they are ATOL protected.

Staying Home

pools with lots of slides for the kids. There were free activities for children age 5-12 years, including themed days, games and a small play area. The beach was just a short walk away, which was a real bonus, and the main reason for us choosing this site. We visited the local area, including Concarneau, a historic town with a famous harbour, and Quimper, where lovely pottery is made. You can also take a boat trip to the pretty Glénan islands. We booked this holiday through Brittany Ferries and the cost of the holiday included the chalet as well as the boat journeys there and back.” We had a scour through the Brittany Ferries website and found campsite holidays to France, Spain and Portugal for as little as £466 for a family of four! The following website is very useful for

Enjoying the summer holidays doesn’t mean you have to go abroad. If you’re staying home, there’s a range of holidays to choose from. Potters Resort, located in Great Yarmouth, offers all-inclusive family holidays which means you don’t need to worry about accommodation, meals or keeping kids busy. If you fancy adding a bit more glamour to your camping holiday, take a look at Sandy Balls. Set in New Forest National Park, their accommodation adds some extra fun to your holiday. Go glamping in one of their funky camping pods in August for 7 nights at £756 or amp up the fun for £1300 and choose a safari tent, which gives you all the luxury of a lodge and all the freedom and adventure of sleeping under canvas.

22 • Summer 17 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Scotland

Located just 22 miles from Edinburgh and 50 miles from Glasgow is hydropathic hotel Peebles Hydro. Aside from a vast history ranging over 150 years and 30 acres of land to explore, the hotel offers a range of activities to keep kids entertained such as walking trails, golf, quads, as well as mountain biking and cycling. On days when you’re low on energy, there is a pretty market town nearby and a spa to indulge and relax. The best part? This summer on selected midweek dates, kids stay free! Book a 3 night break in August for as little as £435.

Cheap as chips option – UK & Europe

Getting away can cost from as little as £9.50pp when collecting The Sun Holiday Vouchers or pay £15pp to escape to one of the many European countries (you will have to pay/arrange travel). This is for accommodation only but still works out very cost effective as a ferry crossing can cost very little for a car of up to 5 people. For more information, check out The Sun website. https://club950.co.uk

SAVING TIPS Tesco Boost Collecting points and then exchanging them for their boost/perks can includes air miles, channel crossings, car hire, accomodation and restaurants.

Air miles If you use a credit card check if you can earn air miles whilst spending, these soon add up and can make that dream holiday a reality.

Save the pennies

saving loose change in a pot throughout the year can provide you with spending money. We find £2 coins a good one to collect.

WIN!

We have teamed up with Coleman to offer our readers a chance to win this luxurious Cortes Octagon 8 Tent Add a touch of class to your next camping trip with Coleman’s luxurious Cortes Octagon 8 tent. One thing is for certain, there is no better way to enjoy this balmy weather than piling your friends and family into the car, heading out into the great outdoors and finding the perfect spot to start your ultimate and personalised ‘glamping’ weekend away. Forget about forking out for a pre-determined and pre-set up site, with the award-winning* Coleman Cortes Octagon 8 tent, you have a large, spacious and luxurious tent at your fingertips. Your choice for ‘glampsite’ locations becomes a boundless array of opportunity. To find out more about the Cortes Octagon 8 tent visit: http://www.coleman.eu/uk/p-26459-cortes-octagon-8.aspx

How to enter Go online at: www.kidaround.biz/ competitions

BRENTWOOD

GREAT BADDOW

Hopscotch Day Nursery

Woodcroft Nursery School

School Road Kelvedon Hatch 01277 372826 Jan Swift www.hopscotchdn.co.uk

sTly Sunflower Montessori Kindergarten

Lansbury Suite Hutton Poplars Hutton 01277 201120 Naira Gendi www.sunflowermontessorikinder.co.uk info@sunflowermontessorikinder.co.uk sunflowerhutton@gmail.com

CHELMSFORD The Stables Nursery

Mararetting Road Galleywood 01245 348159 Susan Mann www.thestablesnursery.co.uk

sT*

COLD NORTON Cold Norton Preschool

Spaces Available Village Hall, Cherry Blossom Lane, CM3 6JQ 01621 828845 Natalie Hughes coldnortonpreschool@hotmail.co.uk

Dorset Avenue 01245 473222 Mrs H. Roberts www.woodcroft-nur.essex.sch.uk

sTly

LAINDON Willowfield Preschool

Steepleview Community Hall Willowfield 07891 036905 Julie Baker willowfieldpreschool@gmail.com

MALDON Daisy Chain Nursery

Royal Court 01621 859991 Kim Lambert www.daisychain-nursery.com

sT*y

Viking Junior Academy

Wentworth Primary School Viking Road 07583 261354 Tanya Syder www.vikingacademy.co.uk

sT*ly

Woodham Mortimer Preschool

Brookhead Studio Brookhead Farm Maldon Rd CM9 6GP 07742 228077 Jennifer Hull woodhammortimerpre-school@hotmail.com www.woodhammortimerpreschool.org.uk

WICKFORD The Day Nursery

Church Road SS11 8SH 01268 769522 Jenna or Shanie admin@thedaynursery.org.uk www.thedaynursery.org.uk

NORTH FAMBRIDGE

WRITTLE

Deerlands Day Nursery

The Duckling Nursery

Ferry Road 01621 744041 Heidi Cook www.deerlandsdaynursery.co.uk

Lodge Road 07771 645270 Mrs S. Homer www.ducklingnursery.co.uk

sT*l

ONGAR

Writtle Green Preschool

ABC Nursery, Preschool & After School Club

Stondon Road 01277 362211 Ms Ioana Gherghi igherghi2000@yahoo.co.uk www.abcnursery.org.uk

sT*ly

Longmeads House 12-14 Redwood Drive 07950 944612 www.writtlegreenpre-school.org.uk

s DAY CARE

ROXWELL

T SESSIONAL CARE

Roxwell Preschool

y AFTERSCHOOL

Memorial Hall The Street 07970 750484 April Little www.roxwellpreschool.co.uk aprillittle123@btinternet.com

CLUB h CHILDMINDER l BREAKFAST CLUB * HOLIDAY CLUB H CRECHE

DON’T FORGET TO MENTION US WHEN CALLING