Summer 2019

Summer Fun

Our guide to some of the best places to visit and things to do with the family this summer!

School's Out

Packed-full of ideas to keep the kids busy during the holidays.

Plus...

All our usual favourites

COMPETITIONS

Win tickets to BBC's Summer Social and other great giveaways

Contents This Summer 04 News & Views

Education Matters 9 Tutors & Schools

Family Life 12 School's Out

What's on

Hello Readers, Summer, Yay! My favourite season of all.

With warmer days (we hope), enjoying barbecues in the garden with friends & family, and children out in their paddling pools or bouncing away on trampolines the air always seems full of laughter and squeals of excitement.

If you want to make the most of getting out during the warmer months, check out the Summertime Fun feature on page 18 which is full of things to do, ideas of places to visit and includes some advice on how to make the best of the summer holidays without costing you a fortune.

Also, if you are like me and starting to realise that the holidays are just around the corner, worry not - our School’s Out feature on page 12 has lots of activities, workshops and summer camps to keep them happy, fit, healthy and meeting new friends, There’s lots here to keep you busy, active and ‘in the know.’ Make sure you enter our fabulous competitions on page 31 and be sure to subscribe to receive KidAround direct to your inbox as well receive our monthly newsletters.

See you all soon!

18 Summer Fun 24 Diary Dates

Early Years 28 Childcare

All this plus: 06 Kids Pocket Money

10 Summer Learning

07 Things we like

14 Summer Safety

07 'Which' Sunscreen Best Buys

30 Kids Animal Games

08 Charity Events

31 Competition page

Contact Us

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KidAround Magazine is published quarterly by Trew Publishing Ltd. PO Box 12777, HALSTEAD, CO9 4WN | 01245 206577 | info@kidaround.biz.

Circulation: over 70,000 across Central and North Essex.

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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.

NEWS & VIEWS

ChatHealth - Nursing text service for young people

There's a new school nurse text-messaging service, ChatHealth Essex is now live! With more young people using mobile devices to administrate their daily lives, they want to provide support on all health matters through anonymous texting service.

This is manned by a School Nurse between the hours of 9-5pm Monday to Friday, and they will respond to all messages within 24 hours Monday – Friday. Their aim is to provide a timely, and convenient access to confidential health advice for every young person in Essex.

The contact details are: Mid Essex School Nursing Service 07520 615731 South Essex School Nursing Service 07520 615732 West Essex School Nursing Service 07520 615733 North East Essex School Nursing Service 07520 615734

Top ten words parents commonly hear their child say - know the lingo

Obvs meaning ‘obviously’ Sick meaning something great Awks meaning ‘awkward’ Squad meaning ‘a group of friends’ Savage meaning someone who has done something considered bold or feisty Safe meaning something is good or to agree with something Rage quitting meaning when a person quits a video game because they're losing Lit meaning when something is fun/cool Deep meaning emotional Triggered meaning something that has annoyed them

Essex Hidden and Beautiful Isles

Too Good To Throw Away?

Do you have items which are too good to throw away? It’s quick, easy and free to pass on your items and you may not even need to leave home!

Your items could help people in your local area.

In Essex we’re lucky to have many reuse organisations to choose from. More and more of us are donating and purchasing items from these organisations meaning you are supporting local people and great local community causes. Look up some of these online: • Billericay and Laindon – Hamelin Trust • Brentwood – Lighthouse Furniture Project Ltd • Clacton – Tendring Reuse and Employment Enterprise (TREE) • Colchester – Emmaus • Epping Forest – Epping Forest ReUse • Harlow – Environmental Conservation Cooperative (ECCO) • Rayleigh – Hopeworx Reuse Centre For more ideas on how to donate or pass on unwanted belongings, visit. www.essex.gov.uk

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Head to the Essex isles and explore one of the county’s beautiful island habitats. The county has 35 islands, more islands than any other English county.

Most of them are uninhabited by humans but provide a haven for our wildlife; it’s the closest you'll get to true wilderness in Essex. Whether you’re a keen birder, love rambling, or even just feel the need to get away from the urban sprawl for a short time, the isles of Essex are perfect for spending time in the great outdoors.

Mersea Island - With the famous oyster and crabbing off of the jetty.

Osea Island - popular by the rich and famous (Rhianna recently hired the Island for a music video) Foulness Island - only open to the public six days of the year.

Wallasea - The discover coast full of wildlife . Make sure you take some binoculars For more about Essex coast and places to visit in Essex, pop on to visitessex.co.uk

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NEWS & VIEWS Top tips to manage your child’s pocket money It’s never too early teach your kids about money, in fact, research suggests that how we behave around money as adults was learned early on from our parents!

Pocket money is a fantastic and fun way to kick off your child’s basic understanding of money - teaching them how to earn it, how to save it, and most importantly, how to spend it responsibly.

But before getting started, there are a few decisions parents have to make, such as how much to give? And, how often to give it?

To help you decide and guide you through the process, Gimi, a free pocket money app and chores manager, has provided its top tips below.

1. When should I start giving my child pocket money?

Data shows it’s common for parents to introduce weekly pocket money to their children by the age of five. This allows them to get used to receiving their own money on a regular basis.

But there’s no hard and fast rule here, you know your child best so you should base it on when you feel they are ready.

2. How often should I give my child pocket money?

It is easier for younger children to understand the concept of pocket money on a weekly basis, as they learn to associate a particular day of the week with it. For example, Friday is coming, and that means I get my allowance. Your child will then become used to this process over time.

When you feel your child is used managing their money well on a weekly basis, you can start thinking about transitioning their allowance to a monthly basis, allowing them to manage their finances like an adult. Typically, this is around 11 years old.

3. How much should I give them?

This is totally up to you as a parent and what you feel is reasonable. We recommend that the pocket money is high enough to: Cover basic needs. So you don’t have to pay for your child and they can learn for themselves • Allows them to save. So your child can start working towards a future goal • Encourages them to spend some. So they can start to manage their money responsibly • Yet, low enough to: • Make choices and prioritise. To help them learn the difference between ‘wants’ and ‘needs’

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To give some examples, our data suggests the average amount to give a five year old is £2 per week. This gradually rises by 50p - £1 each year they get older so that by the time they are 11 and move from a weekly to monthly allowance, they are typically receiving £20 per month.

4. How can I motivate them to earn and save?

On top of a recurring allowance, chores are a great way to teach children that they can earn additional money. It shows them that hard work pays off.

This works even better if they have a savings goal - such as ‘save up for a scooter’ - because they will be able to see how earning money moves them closer to the item they want.

5. What tools exist to help me manage the process?

Gone are the days of keeping track of pocket money through notes scribbled in the back of your notebook! There are now free apps (such as Gimi) that can help automate the pocket money process. And, the best bit is, all the family can use them, allowing your kids to start managing their money for themselves and tracking their progress.

Involving all the family not only takes the pressure off you, it will also increase your child’s motivation to keep their eyes on their saving prize as they watch their money roll in.

For more information on Gimi, visit: www.gimitheapp.com.

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NEWS & VIEWS

Things we like for Summer

Keeping Cool - For Kids & Adults Our children love making colourful ‘mocktails’ to drink in the garden, which you can do using all different fruit juices. Add some sparkle to the glass by dipping the rim in lemon juice and then in some sugar, then finish it off with a cocktail umbrella (if possible). Whilst they drink theirs, here’s one for us adults - we love making frozen cocktails!

G&T with slices of cucumber are particularly delicious but only for the grown ups. To make 10 lollies mix 700ml tonic water with 45ml gin and the juice of ¼ lime. Put cucumber slices, or lime if you prefer, into the lolly moulds, pour in the tonic mix and freeze for 12 hours. You may find that these will melt quicker than normal lollies because of the alcohol, so you can’t eat them slowly!

Protecting our skin from the sun is so important, but how do you know you are buying the best protection? we turned to which.co.uk to find out what their tests revealed as some of the best buys.

The Original Den Kit Everything you need in a bag to build an ultra-cool den with the kids.

A great way to get them off the gadgets and outdoors. It comes with groundsheet, mallet, pegs, rope, instructions and even a mug and facepaint. £40 www.thedenkitco.com Wineglass Shades We saw this gorgeous idea and are definitely going to be making some of these for our summer evenings with friends. You can use any paper or card to form the shade for your wineglass (templates available online, just search for wineglass shades). Please make sure you use only battery operated tea lights as other materials maybe highly flammable. Sourced from Pinterest Must Have Garden Pots Summer Gardens. Pots painted with glow-in-thedark paint look fantastic in the garden at night.

Why not upcycle old jars into lovely garden lanterns. You can turn most jars into lanterns using wire around the rim onto which you can attach a handle. They look lovely plain or painted and you can be creative with what you fill them with. Sourced from Pinterest Recycled Jar Garden Lanterns It’s amazing how many things can be made using jars, these are our current favourites- garden lanterns. Perfect for summer evenings, all you need is an old glass jar, some string and wire (long enough to wrap around the jar neck)...voila! Idea sourced from Pinterest.

Travel booster that doubles up as a rucksack These amazing Trunki BoostApax are backpacks that turn into a booster seat - sheer genius. They can fill them with their travel favourites and take them along with you on your travels. It ensures your kids are safe whilst you travel. Whether you are hiring a car or catching a taxi, you can rest assured knowing you have a booster seat at all times. They vary in price and can be purchased from Trunki, Amazon and many other retailers, just search for Trunki BoostApax.

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Best Budget Buys for less than £5.00: Lidl Cien Sun Lotion Classic SPF30 £3.49 • SPF 5/5 • UVA protection 5/5 • Application 5/5 This is a top-quality sun cream at a bargain price.

Tested May 2018 Aldi Lacura Moisturising Sun Lotion SPF30 £1.99 • SPF 5/5 • UVA protection 5/5 • Application 4/5 Tested in May 2018 Asda Protect Moisturising Sun Lotion SPF30 £2.39 • SPF 5/5 • UVA protection 5/5 • Application 4/5 Tested in May 2018 Boots Soltan Protect and Moisturise Suncare Lotion SPF30 £4.00 • SPF 5/5 • UVA protection 5/5 • Application 3/5 Tested in May 2018

Best buys for a little more £6.00+: Hawaiian Tropic Satin Protection SPF30 £6.00 SPF 5/5 UVA protection 5/5 Application 5/5

Morrisons Protect & Nourish Sun Spray SPF30 £7.00 • SPF 5/5 • UVA protection 5/5 • Application 3/5 Tested in May 2018 Nivea Protect & Refresh Invisible Cooling Sun Spray SPF30 £6.00 • SPF 5/5 • UVA protection 5/5 • Application 5/5 Tested in May 2018 Garnier Ambre Solaire Dry Mist Spray SPF30 .£8.00 • SPF 5/5 • UVA protection 5/5 • Application 5/5 Tested in May 2017 Hawaiian Tropic Duo Defence SPF30 £9.00 • SPF 5/5 • UVA protection 5/5 • Application 5/5 Tested in May 2018

These tests were carried out in 2018 & 2017.

For more on these reports and other product testing visit them online www.which.co.uk

Tested in May 2017

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Dates for your diary Tuesday 30 July – International Friendship Day International Friendship Day aims to foster friendships and bridge the gaps between race, colour, religion and other factors which prevent people from enjoying friendship with one another. Let your friends know how much you appreciate them - with a card, a letter, a phone call, an email or a text.

And why not smile at everyone you meet today – you never know, they may be your new best friend!

Wednesday 7th Aug - Playday: The national day for play On Playday thousands of children and their families get out to play at hundreds of community events across the UK. From small-scale events to thousands of children taking over Trafalgar Square – 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 events near you and how you can take part visit www.playday.org.uk 13th - 22nd September – Heritage Open Days More than 4000 buildings that are usually closed or charge for admission will open their doors for free during Heritage Open Days. From castles and medieval cottages, to battlefield walks and Buddhist temples. For a full list of places open visit the Heritage Open Days website.

Sunday 13th Sept – Roald Dahl Day The official Roald Dahl Day takes place every year on 13th Sept – on the birthday of the world’s No1 storyteller. Why not read one of his fun and imaginative books or watch one of the movies. You could also take the opportunity to raise money for Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity, which aims to make the lives of sick children better. www.roalddahl.com/charity

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Charity Events

Saturday 29 June - SNAP Fun Mud Run Team up with your family, friends or work mates and take on a fun challenge specially designed just for SNAP. All sponsorship you raise for taking part will go directly to support SNAP services. 09:00 – 10:30 Nuclear Races Experience Days, Kelvedon Hatch, CM15 0LA. £30-£35. To register email fundraising@snapcharity.org Saturday 29 June - Soft Play Summer Meet Up with CLAPA North Essex Group All families affected by cleft are welcome at this fun, FREE evening - that includes expectant parents and grandparents too! 6pm 8pm. For more information, please contact CLAPA Volunteer Kelly Hill at kellyhill83@hotmail.co.uk or on 07921958294 Monday 26 August- Panto Horse Derby Bank Holiday Race 2019 The Panto Horse Derby Bank Holiday 2019 is booked in and they are looking forward to much fun, frovility and enjoyment. Last year the event raised over £9,000 charity from 22 sets of riders.

Four charities raised over £750. By Age Concern. https://www.ageconcerncolchester.org.uk/2019/03/23/pantohorse-race-aug-2019/ Sunday 28 July - Purple Colour Run Raising Money in Memory of Maya for Meningitis Research Meningitis and septicaemia are deadly diseases that strike without warning. Rapid diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are required to provide the best chance of survival. Help raise money for this cause by taking part. Stansted Raceway Lovecotes Farm,chickney Road, Henham Village, Bishop's Stortford, CM22 6BH. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/purple-colour-run-formeningitis-tickets-55553968415?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

EDUCATION

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First Class Learning 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 11+ Specialist English & Mathmatics, creative writing with outstanding results for the past 8 years. 1:2:1 available in holidays KS2/ KS3. Covering Colchester, Braintree & Felsted areas. Call Lyn 07707 382058

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

COLCHESTER Anna Spurgeon BA Hons. PGCE 11+ tuition. Very high pass rate. Small group sessions. Fourteen years 11+ experience. Call Anna on 01206 738239/ 07500 339181

11+ ENG MAT

VARIOUS ESSEX LOCATIONS

Ace Tuition - Covering Braintree, Colchester, Clacton and Harwich Tuition for 5-16 year olds. Ofsted registered, 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 ENG ICT LAN MAT SAT SCI SEN

11+

LISTINGS KEY 11+ = 11 PLUS ENG = ENGLISH ICT = COMPUTING LAN = LANGUAGES MAT = MATHEMATICS MUS = MUSIC SAT = SATs SCI = SCIENCE SEN = SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS

Summer Learning Keeping learning alive during the holidays With the summer holidays soon to start, how can we help to keep our children's learning going? Here’s some ideas to keep their busy minds active without them even knowing they are learning.

• Holidays - whether UK or abroad, this is a great opportunity for kids to explore and learn new experiences. Buy them a journal to take which will enable them to log new experiences (great for those writing skills). Also, if you have a camera, let them explore with taking photos which they can then stick in the journal. Kids love telling the teacher what they did during their time away!

• Wildlife watching - let them loose in the garden and dig in the dirt to find worms and hunt for bugs, they can log the different types and even draw them. You can also make some fat balls for the birds to feed from.

There are lots of ideas on pinterest.

• Get mucky – so you may have to tidy up after but watch their creative skills come to life with some paint.

You can set them objects around the house (if raining) or garden to draw.

• Get counting – whilst on long car journeys, make a game of counting all the red (or blue – you can choose a colour) cars seen. For older kids, you can count several objects such as: lorries, signs, roundabout’s etc. They can then add, multiply or divide the different objects counted.

• Pocket money – give them chores to do around the house to earn some money (eases some of the strain from you). They can save for a new toy, maybe a gadget or money to spend on holiday. Having them work out how much they can earn from helping and then spend is great for those maths skills and we all know kids love money.

• Shopping – similar to the above, let them have their own basket and give them some items from the list to select, carry and then pay for – letting work out the cost and how much change they receive.

If you still get stuck – there are some great resources for them online http://www.bbc.co.uk/cbeebies/ http://www.bbc.co.uk/cbbc/ http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/ or look on pinterest for some activities you can join in with.

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EDUCATION

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SCHOOL'S OUT

School's Out

But, don't worry we have lots of ideas to keep the kids busy in this guide. Plus, find out more from our advertisers online at www.kidaround.biz where they have supplied images and information on the great activities they have to offer.

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SCHOOL'S OUT

Theatricool Performing Arts

10 years old and an exciting year ahead.

In 2019 Theatricool is 10 years old! Hard to believe that the little company that started with a Summer School and 16 children has evolved into a thriving school with over 150 children aged from 3-18. They have had to expand their lower school by doubling the classes and the upper school now has additional senior classes to keep up with demand.

Year on year they have increased their numbers and produced more and more ambitious performances. They have performed at The Mercury, Lakeside and Headgate theatres and the on the stages of Colchester Institute to sell out crowds performing some of the worlds best musicals including, Seussical, Peter Pan, Madagascar, Little Mermaid and Alice in Wonderland. This year they are thrilled to be performing the Essex premier of Wind in the Willows, a show staged in the West End in 2017 starring their fabulous vocal coach Craig Mather as Mole "how lucky are we to have a Westend star teaching for us?" commented Sally.

Next year they are over the moon to have the rights to perform Shrek The Musical, The rights are very rarely granted and they are the only local group given permission to stage the Disney production in 2020, a very exciting show which is already being planned meticulously.

They pride themselves in giving their students the opportunity to perform twice a year as performing is at the heart of everything they do, all their children, no matter their ability, are given the chance to shine and this in turn breeds confidence.

We do have a waiting list for September but we are expanding further with new classes all the time, so get in touch! www.theatricool.co.uk

Theatricool Summer Drama Schools!

Theatricool are looking forward to their two Summer Schools this year! With a great mixture of singing, acting and dancing (and crafts for the little ones) the week culminates in a performance to friends and family to show off all the performing skills learnt.

Their Summer Schools were established in 2009 and they have a tried and tested formula to give their students a fabulous week full of fun and laughter.

The older children work on routines from West End and Broadway Musicals and they will also look at scenes and sketches from scripts and/or get a chance to work on self devised scenes with guidance from their friendly staff, so that there is something for everyone.

The Little ones (age 4-7) play lots of Drama games and work on their own song and dance routine plus a little devised story, this is interspersed with lots of crafts to make and do (and to take home) Each Summer School is run by qualified and experienced staff who are also licenced Chaperones with Essex County Council for parents peace of mind. All you need to do is book via the website www.theatricool.co.uk and they will send you an email to confirm your place.

Hurry though as places are limited and we always sell out! If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us sally@theatricool.co.uk or 07736713909.

They look forward to seeing you there!

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Leisure World’s Summer Aquatic Programme

Try something new, fun and interesting this summer with Leisure World’s week-long Wet ‘n Wild courses – a taste of a different water sport every day!

Grab a paddle and get started with canoeing, where you’ll learn the basics of canoe handling in the safe and supporting environment of their Fitness Pool. There’s a day of swimming personal survival and lifesaving to develop water skills and, when they’re ready, simulating an accidental fall into the water to apply their newly learnt skills wearing clothing.

They’ll splash right into diving, whether they aspire to follow in Tom Daley’s footsteps or simply just want to learn a new sport and impress their friends. A day of snorkelling will introduce new skills and help them get used to the equipment, and they can try their hand at water polo, a sport that combines the shooting skills of handball, the ball handling skills of basketball or netball, and the speed and stamina of swimming.

Wet ‘n Wild sessions will be running Tuesday 30 July to Friday 2 August (4 Sessions from £24) or Monday 5 to Friday 9 August (5 sessions £30), 9.15-10am. Suitable for children 7+ years who can swim at least 10 metres on their front and back.

We also have intensive swimming courses running from Tuesday 30 July to Friday 2 August (4 Sessions: Stage 1 & 2 £20 Stage 3 £24)) or Monday 5 to Friday 9 August (5 sessions: Stage 1 & 2 £25 Stage 3 £30), Stages 1 & 2: 9-9.30am or 9.30-10am and Stage 3: 9-10am.

Book in advance to secure your child’s place at Leisure World Colchester, by calling 01206 282000 or visit www.colchesterleisureworld.co.uk for more information.

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SCHOOL'S OUT

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SCHOOL'S OUT Stagecoach Workshops

While regular Stagecoach performing arts classes run during term time, holiday workshops are also on offer. During their time at one of the Stagecoach workshops, it is guaranteed you will see an increase in your child’s confidence and social awareness.

Braintree Colchester

Put On A Show Date: 29 Jul – 2 Aug Time: 9:30 – 12:30 Cost: £100 sibling £70 Age: 4 – 7yrs Where: Colchester Sixth Form College, North Hill, CO1 1SN Dance Boot Camp Date: 29 Jul – 2 Aug Time: 10:30-15:30 Cost: £120 sibling £90 Age: 12 – 18yrs Where: Colchester Sixth Form College, North Hill, CO1 1SN High School Musical Jnr, Disney Date: 12 Aug – 16 Aug Time: 10am – 4pm Cost £150 sibling £95 Age: 6 – 18 yrs Where: The Gilberd School Brinkley Lane, CO4 9PU For more information see: stagecoach.co.uk/colchester

Matilda Date: 5 Aug – 9 Aug Time: 10am - 4pm Cost: £145 sibling £110 Age: 6 – 18yrs Where: Braintree Arts Theatre, Braintree Sixth Form, Notley Road, CM7 1WY For more information see: stagecoach.co.uk/braintree

Chelmsford

Aladdin Date: 19 Aug – 23 Aug Time: 10am – 4pm Cost: £140 sibling £100 Age: 6 – 18yrs Where: Hylands School, Writtle Summer Trolliday Date: 19 Aug - 23 Aug Time: 9:30 – 12:30 Cost: £100 sibling £80 Age: 4 – 6 yrs Where: Hylands School, Writtle Wrap around care 9am-5pm £20 For more information see: stagecoach.co.uk/chelmsford

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Summertime let the fun begin

Great Days Out

Essex has a huge range of places to visit - use this handy guide to find out what some of the attractions have to offer you and your family this summer. We have more information from these attractions online at www.kidaround.biz

How To Survive Summer Holidays On A Budget One of the best things about the summer break is being able to make amazing memories with the kids, but you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a wonderful time. Check out our top 5 ideas for keeping the kids amused in the holidays on a budget.

Den Making It’s an oldie but goldie, den making is a marvellous way for the kids to go on an adventure when home is the only destination. Simply pulling the sofa cushions off, digging out those cardboard boxes, and ripping off the duvets and bed sheets will have their imaginations running wild! They could play knights and build a fort, be princesses with a castle, or even fight aliens in a space station, the sitting room is their oyster! You could even schedule in a picnic when it’s all built. Sure it takes a little cleaning up at the end of the day, but it’s guaranteed to keep them amused all day and for zero pounds!

Picnics If you’re desperate to get out and about, why not have a stroll down to your local park and have a good old-fashioned picnic? It’ll make an exciting change for the kids instead of sitting at the table, and you can even get them helping out in the kitchen prepping their alternative lunch too. Why not make some super simple and affordable mini pizzas out of muffins, tomato puree, and their favourite toppings? Or make their own fruit kebabs? Their lunch is sure to taste even better knowing they’ve made it themselves. Don’t forget to pack a football and frisbee too! There’s nothing better than a family kick about in the park. It’s sure to tire them out for the rest of the day as well. Bonus!

Obstacle Course Why not set the kids a challenge this summer and set up an obstacle course in the garden? It’s a fab way to get them out in the fresh air exercising, and it teaches them how to concentrate and problem solve too. Firstly, to make the exercise extra fun and give them something to do while you build, get your kids to make up their own warrior names for the competition. There’s loads of cool ideas to make, for instance; hanging up balloons for the kids to crawl through, weaving around pots and buckets, balancing on planks, and jumping over planters. The ideas are endless!

Model Making There’s nothing better than getting those creative juices flowing on a rainy day. It’s well known by many a parent that much of the time, kids are more amused by a cardboard box than they are an expensive toy, so why not dig through your recycling and get them making models? They will be able to spend time being artistic, making everything from rockets to dinosaurs. It’ll give them something new to play with after and is sure to give you some amusement too. If you have a few pennies to spare, why not hit your local The Works, Hobbycraft, or Wilko and pick up some sequins, feathers, and felt tip pens to make their modes look extra spectacular? Download the Reward Me Now app and you’ll be able to save up to 7% making this activity even cheaper.

Put On A Show There’s no better way for the kids to bond with their siblings and friends than by creating a show to perform to parents. I don’t know about you, but some of my best childhood memories were making up dances with my friends in the sitting room. Give them the challenge of writing their own script and songs, then get them to perform it at the end of the day in front of the parents and younger siblings. You could even dig out that coloured card and old material so they can make their own costumes as well. It’s sure to create some hilarious life long memories for both you and the kids too.

Written by expert Megan Fife from AMS 18 • Summer 19 • www.kidaround.biz

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Summertime Fun Family fun at Redwings Ada Cole

A jam-packed summer of fun awaits families at Redwings Ada Cole!

Not only can you get up close and cuddly with over 70 adorable rescued horses, ponies and donkeys, but the visitor centre, just outside Harlow, offers a special schedule of activities during the school holidays – and entry is free!

We Love Horses, Ponies and Donkeys!

Starting on 19th July, Redwings Ada Cole will host a series of themed weekends – including We Love Horses, We Love Ponies and We Love Donkeys – celebrating all the unique things we love about their fourlegged friends.

Look out for opportunities to join in tours of the centre, enjoy fascinating talks and even have a go at pony grooming!

Join the Club!

The centre’s annual Summer Club also offers the chance for children, aged six to 11, to enjoy fun and educational activities every week during the school holidays.

The Club provides a taster of what it’s like to be a Redwings vet, a field officer, a farrier and even a horsey dentist with hands-on activities, including giving a pony a mini health check, filling tasty haynets and creating enrichment toys for donkeys.

Party with an Adoption Star!

Sponsoring one of Redwings’ Adoption Star horses, ponies and donkeys costs £15 per year.

Every year, each Adoption Star at Redwings Ada Cole is thrown a special party to celebrate their birthday – and everyone is invited!

And don’t forget…

The centre provides acres of peaceful green space and paddocks – perfect if you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy a summer walk. Dogs on leads are welcome too!

Redwings Ada Cole, in Epping Road, Roydon (EN9 2DH), is open every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday, 10am to 4pm. For more information, head to www.redwings.org.uk/visiting.

The Original Great Maze at Blake House Craft Centre

They are celebrating their 20th birthday this summer with a great new maze adventure. Covering a massive 10 acres, it is one of the biggest and longest running maize mazes in the UK, sown from over half a million maize seeds, the challenge is on!

New this year, to celebrate their special birthday is the interactive scarecrow competition, carefully designed to help children with their school curriculum on farming. Hunt down the scarecrows hiding around the maze and answer their questions for your chance to win £100!

Will you get lost in the maize maze? A lost souls escape map is available and whether you are a beginner or an experienced maze enthusiast there is always a new adventure to be found.

When you have conquered the maze, climb the viewing platform, to spot lost friends still lost in the green labyrinth and ring the new victory bell! This year’s design is inspired by their birthday celebrations and with a nod to their Tudor heritage at Blake House Farm.

A picnic area is available, with ice-creams and drinks on sale and after your maze adventure, why not challenge family and friends to a game of Minigolf on the newly refurbished 9 hole course? Let the kids use up some energy in the play area and you can take a look around the Blake House Craft Centre shops, where there is something for everyone. Go and ‘get lost’ for a fun family day out, whatever the weather.

Maze open daily 20th July – 8th Sept 2019, from 10am (last entry 4pm).

The Original Great Maze, Blake House Craft Centre, Blake End, Near Braintree, Essex, CM77 6RA. Tel: 01376 553146. www.greatmaze.co.uk

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www.kidaround.biz • Summer 19 • 19

Summertime Fun

20 • Summer 19 • www.kidaround.biz

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Summertime Section Fun Title Colchester Castle Unveils New Exhibition This July!

This summer explore Colchester Castle with the family. The Castle is Europe’s largest Norman keep and is built on the historic foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius. An incredibly popular family attraction it welcomes thousands of visitors every year from across the world.

Inside you will find over 2,500 years of history packed in this historic building, with many nationally important objects on display, including Roman finds from the time that Colchester was Britain’s First Roman Capital.

As well as plenty of history there is plenty of fun to be had too!

Step back in time and race a Roman chariot, dress up like a Roman soldier, fashion a Roman mosaic or simply watch history come to life before your very eyes with the augmented reality tablet hire. If you want to find out more why not explore behind the scenes with a guided tour and walk the roof and pretend you are a soldier on guard duty!

NEW – Opening July 27 (included in Castle entry) Colchester Castle will be unveiling a stunning new exhibition this summer entitled Adorn: Jewellery,The Human Story. Focusing on jewellery the exhibition will be exploring the glitz and glamour that jewellery holds throughout the ages, from the Bronze Age all the way through to the 21st Century. It tells the story about how individuals have a fascination and need for personal adornment and how this has not really changed throughout time.

Featuring incredible items of jewellery, some of which are over 5,000 years old it is not to be missed. Showcasing some items for the first time and with objects from the world-famous Pompeii on loan from the British Museum, head to Colchester Castle this summer to discover how jewellery found in Colchester, links to the very heart of the Roman empire with this new breath-taking exhibition!

As always throughout the summer months Colchester Museums will be running a programme of children’s events across all three of its Museums. Check the website for further details at colchester.cimuseums.org.uk/events After exploring what Colchester Castle has to offer head across the road to Hollytrees Museum and the Natural History Museum both of which are FREE to visit and make a family day of it.

Find out more at www.colchester.cimuseums.org.uk Keep up to date with news and information by following @ColMuseums on social media.

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www.kidaround.biz • Summer 19 • 21

Summertime Section Title Fun

Bubble ’n Bop

The Children’s Summer Festival at Marsh Farm Throughout the summer holidays (25th July to 2nd September 2019), Marsh Farm, in South Woodham Ferrers, are hosting an amazing Children’s festival.

It’s a festival of fun that’s bursting with bubbles, exploding with excitement, filled with foam-fun and the best ever Bubble ’n Glow Party!

Get ready for a packed programme of activities that will keep the whole family entertained all day long.

With an ‘inland beach’ and ‘foam pool’ little festivalgoers will need swimwear and a towel to enjoy all that’s on offer.

Away from the wet play there’s a free bag of popcorn for finding your way out of the A-maize-ing Maze and NEW for this summer is the opening of their train track that takes visitors on a train journey around the farm park.

A must on the programme is the Radio Essex Bubble’n Glow party.

Get ready to do the ‘big fish, little fish, cardboard box’!

Where the bopping playlist, bubbles and glow sticks are sure to create a party time to remember - so put on those dancing shoes!

And the festie-fun continues with a Tepee camp, bouncy village and for a ROARingly great time, visitors will even get to meet some dinosaurs too!

If you need a sit down after all the excitement, then the animals will entertain you with a new animal show and new ferret racing, as well as alpaca walking and adorable animals to meet throughout the day.

Funfair rides, adventure play, crazy golf, jewel hunting and a tractor ride just add to a festie-fabulous summer day out.

And the great thing is that all of the programme, all of the activities, shows, rides, beach, maze and play are included in the entrance price great for budgeting and with an online entrance price of only £9.99 it’s amazing value too.

You can book your discounted tickets in advance by visiting www.marshfarm.co.uk or you can just turn up and pay on the door.

For full details visit www.marshfarm.co.uk or call 01245 321552.

Details of the programme are correct at the time of writing but are subject to change.

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Summertime Section Fun Title Activity Packed Festival Returns To Audley End Miniature Railway

Fun for all the family throughout the Summer months Their favourite event, the Summer Festival, returns to Audley End Miniature Railway this summer! Jam-packed with activities and entertainment for all the family, this spectacular summer-long festival offers everything to ensure a day full of excitement and wonder for children and adults alike.

In addition to the enchanting train ride through the Audley End Estate on their beautiful miniature steam railway, the summer months see the resident fairy and elves welcoming visitors to their charming woodland homes. Wander in awe through the magical groves and look out for the delightful fairy and elf homes hiding amongst the trees with their I Spy booklet.

Back at the picnic area, the fields will be adorned with beautifully decorated bell tents offering an array of activities led by their resident magical characters. Your little one can get into character with colourful face painting, or roll up their sleeves and unleash their creativity in the crafting tent.

New faces this summer include a beautiful shimmering unicorn and mythical dragon who will delight and enthral young minds with spellbinding tales of their adventures from the storytellers – and will you spot them in their new woodland home?

And if all that still leaves you wanting, there are plenty of fun activities to get involved with in the games area. The Summer Festival runs everyday from the 20th July to 8th September 2019. Ticket Price: £11 per person, 0-24 Months go free.

Summer Pass! Does the thought of the endless summer holidays fill you with panic? To make it easier for families to return throughout the Summer, they have created the Summer Pass which can be used for 3 months, giving unlimited access onto site from the 1st June to the 31st August 2019.

Prices Adult £20.00, Child (2-16 years) £20.00, 0-24 Months Free; Carer Free Check T&Cs on their website: https://www.audley-end-railway.co.uk/summer-pass-2019/

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www.kidaround.biz • Summer 19 • 23

DIARY DATES Sat 29 Armed Forces Day - nr Maldon There will be lots to see and explore, with displays of military vehicles, guided tours of the site, museums to explore, and WW1 period aircraft. 11am-3pm. CM3 6RN 01245 429134 www.stowmaries.org.uk Free Event

Diary Dates Use our comprehensive list of events to ensure your fa mily time is packed full of fun!

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. We also obtain a lot of these listings online and highly recommend checking with the event holder before setting off to avoid disappointment.

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 29 Farm Open Day at Lauriston Farm Come and find out what they do at their Farm Open Day. Learn about biodynamic farming, their farm and how they plan to expand their amazing work.You'll also meet their animals and get a chance to feed the sheep. 10:30-12:30. Goldhanger,CM9 8AH. www.lauristonfarm.co.uk/ Sat 29 Colchester Pride A 1- day celebration of arts and education, entertainment and workshops, celebrating Diversity, on the 50th anniversary of The Stonewall Riots, birthplace of LGBT rights.

Acts including BGT finalist Ronan Parke, international DJ, producer and performer Ross Alexander, headline act ABBA Magic, as well as local artistes, drag queens, cabaret, burlesque, and more. With a market area and catering. £6 / £3 (under 11 free) Firstsite, CO1 1JH. www.colchesterpride.lgbt Sat 29 Colour 5K The Colour5k is aimed at all varieties of runners and is the most colourful fun run in Essex. It’s great to do with friends, family or colleagues, with just one aim to have fun and raise money for a great cause. In addition to the 5km run there will be a 1km lap for children with two colour zones, with every runner getting a free t-shirt and medal!". Old Ipswich Road, Ardleigh, CO7 7QR. www.headwayessex.org.uk/headway-events/ colour-5k/ Sat 29 16 Air Assault Brigade & Colchester Garrison Show Highlights across the day include displays

by The Parachute Regiment’s Red Devils freefall team, music from The Band of The Parachute Regiment and a marchpast by veterans and cadets from across Essex. Key pieces of modern equipment on display will include artillery and a field hospital able to be deployed by parachute. Off Circular Rd North, Colchester, CO2 7NZ https://m.facebook.com/16AirAssaultBrigadea ndColchesterGarrisonShow/ Free Event

24 • Summer 19 • www.kidaround.biz

Sat 29 National Garden Scheme : St. Helens Home-made teas. A garden of contrasts due to moist and dry conditions, laid out on a gentle Essex slope from a former willow plantation. 1pm – 5pm . £4.50, children free.

High Street, Stebbing, CM6 3SE. https://www. ngs.org.uk/find-a-garden/garden/20246/ Sat 29 & Sun 30 Feast and Fayre A traditional village event providing a weekend of entertainment and interest for village residents and visitors alike.

Attractions include; street entertainment, music, children’s activities, wide range of craft stalls, 10k road race, and lots more. 9am-5pm.

Horndon-on-the-Hill, SS17 8LG. www.peterjane.co.uk/fandf Sat 29 & Sun 30 Chelmsford Summer Art Exhibition Take a walk up Moulsham Street and enjoy the art trail leading up to the Summer Exhibition and Art Sale at St.John's Church.

Exhibiting the work of over 40 local artists and a chance to take a look at the Travelling Sketchbook. Supported by Chelmsford Creative Collective and Essex Summer of Arts. 12pm – 6pm. The exhibition is open 11am - 4pm on Saturday 12pm - 4pm on Sunday. Moulsham Street, Chelmsford.

Free Event Sun 30 Helen Rollason Cancer Charity Vintage Fair In aid of Helen Rollason Cancer Charity, a celebration of all things vintage including stalls, music and entertainment. 10.30am4.30pm. Adult £5, children free. Cressing Temple, Witham Road, CM77 8PD. www.helenrollason.org.uk Sun 30 Meet the Gruffalo The Gruffalo will be making appearances at intervals throughout the day. 10.30am-5pm.

Adult £12, child £6, family £33. Tel: 01787 461174. Colne Valley Railway, CO9 3DZ. www.colnevalleyrailway.co.uk Sun 30 SEVCVC Annual London to Southend Classic Car Run “The SEVCVC arranges displays at local classic car shows and rallies in the eastern region throughout the season as well as organising major events of its own each year.

Fairlop Waters, Redbridge to Southend City Beach. https://www.facebook.com/photo. php?fbid=10157844095427119

DIARY DATES Sat 6 & Sun 7 Heybridge Basin Regatta Saturday hosts many offshore sailing events, inshore rowing races, bbq and some great stalls in their marquee. Sunday will include a fantastic children’s entertainer, treasure hunt and an exciting homemade raft race. 10am – 8pm Heybridge Basin. https://www.facebook. com/events/264237067829544/

Mon 1 Discover Colchester Have fun discovering Colchester with two quirky self-guided, heritage walks with a treasure hunt theme.You’ll get everything – detailed directions, maps, clues (with answers in the back!), and interesting snippets about the history of Colchester and the people that have shaped it. www.curiousabout.co.uk/colchester.html Thurs 4 National Garden Scheme: Barnards Farm So much to explore in the gardens, and Barnards Miniature Railway rides. 11am to 4:30pm. Brentwood Road, West Horndon, Brentwood CM13. Every to 29th August 2019, 11am to 4:30pm. £7.50, children free. https:// www.ngs.org.uk/find-a-garden/garden/13670/

Sat 6 Destination Moon Celebrating 50 years since the Apollo Spacecraft landed on the moon, There will be experts on hand to tell you what happened when man first landed on the moon, there will be a planetarium with films of the landing and talks about it too. The Colchester Astronomical Society will bring telescopes for you to search the skies and help you identify visible planets. 11am -5pm. www.layermarneytower.co.uk Sat 6 Lifeboat Open Day Meet the Crew, Displays, Childrens' Games and Activities. 11am - 4pm. Burnham Lifeboat Station CM0 8BL. www.rnli.org/find-mynearest/lifeboat-stations/burnham-on-crouchlifeboat-station Free Event

Sat 6 Latchingdon Country Fayre Go along to the picturesque village of Latchingdon for a fun filled day. There will be lots for all the family to enjoy including:Village Scarecrow Competition, Cream Teas, Fun Dog Show and Agility Challenges, BBQ, Pony Pals Pony Rides, Bouncy Castle and Inflatables, Soft Play. 1:00 – 15:00. King Georges Field, Burnaham Road, Latchingdon CM3 6EU. Free Event Sun 7 Music Day Listen to musicians and choirs in the Long Gallery and the Church in the garden and the Tower. A very popular event at the Tower. 11am to 5pm. Layer Marney Tower, nr Colchester. https://www.layermarneytower. co.uk/ Sun 7 Epping Town Show Come along to this annual community event (12 noon to 5pm) for the whole family where there will be a variety of stalls with different games and a range of items for sale, entertainment, arena acts, music, a range of food and refreshments, fun dog show, fun fair, side shows and more. Stonards Hill Recreation Ground, Epping CM16 6SP. Bring your family, dogs and deck chairs!

Contact: 01992 579444 or email: gvallis@ eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk Free Event

www.kidaround.biz • Summer 19 • 25

DIARY DATES Fri 19th – Mon 29th “We Love Donkeys” Find out how they care for their donkeys with fascinating talks and tours at Redwings Ada Cole, near Harlow, this summer! Entry is completely free and dogs on leads are welcome too! There is also a café and a gift shop. every Fri, Sat, Sun and Mon 10am-4pm www.redwings.org.uk Sat 20 - Sun 8 (Sept) Summer Festival Your perfect summer family day out providing you with even more fun and activities to immerse yourselves in! Audley End Miniature Railway. www.audley-end-railway.co.uk Sun 7 Rock ‘n’ Roll Pony Elvis’ Birthday Party Celebrate Adoption Star Elvis’ 13th birthday at Redwings Ada Cole, near Harlow, this summer. He’ll be treated to a pampering groom, his very own birthday cake, and there will be party games and a quiz trail to join in with, too! Entry is completely free and dogs on leads are welcome too! www.redwings.org.uk Wed 10 Invitation to View Visitors view the great chamber, garderobe, guest bedroom and two interesting fourposter beds on the first floor, and the great hall, dining room and kitchen on the ground floor, abbot’s house, chapel, cloister, guest house and riverside courtyard. The Abbey, Coggeshall. https://www.historichouses.org/ houses/house-listing/the-abbey.html Sat 13 Outdoor Summer Barnfest Nurture Barn will be hosting their fun-filled Barnfest festival again in July & August. It will include Moo Music, Boogiewoogies and Sign & Sing. Plus lots of props and bubbles!

10am – 2pm with door opening at 9:30. £6/£13 adults go free. The Nurture Barn, Braintree. https://thenurturebarn.com/ barnfest19/ Sat 13 Tendring Show Essex county’s premier agricultural event.

Attracting crowds in the region of 20,000 each year. Go and join the fun! Lawford House Park, Nr Manningtree, Essex. https://www.tendringshow.co.uk/ Sun 14 The Annual Essex Heavy Horse and Driving Show There are horses of all sizes, from Shetland ponies and Hackney horses, up to Shires and Suffolk Punches. They have an excellent array of classic vehicles, including MGs, buses, tractors and even a fire engine. The dog agility gave dogs and owners a run for their money and of course the beer tent keeps everyone cool in between the many trade stands.

Barleylands, Billericay CM11 2UD. http://www.essexshirehorseassociation.co.uk/

26 • Summer 19 • www.kidaround.biz

Sat 20 July - Sun 8 (Sept) The Original Great Maze The Maize Maze challenge is on! Celebrate their 20th Birthday with us and join in the new Scarecrow Quiz. Open daily 10am - last entry 4pm. Adult £6, Child £4. Blake House Craft Centre, Blake End, Nr Braintree, Essex, CM77 6SH. 01376 553146. www.greatmaze. co.uk Sat 20 Essex Castle Bike Ride A great day’s cycling starting in Colchester, the ride offers three beautiful circular routes of 25, 50 or 75 miles, taking you along the quiet country lanes and through the picturesque villages of North Essex. Castle Park, Catchpool Rd., Colchester, Essex CO1 1YH. https://bike-events.co.uk/Ride. aspx?id=663&n=y Sun 21 Steampunk Fair All set in the industrial Victorian buildings of the East Anglian Railway Museum.

Vintage steam trains will be running all day long, set in amongst a plethora of historic wagons, coaches, signal boxes and Victorian architecture. £10/£5 Under 4's Free. https://www.earm.co.uk/extra_ordinary_ steam_punk/ Sun 21 Chelmsford 5k, 10k Pretty Muddy and Pretty Muddy Kids Race for Life.

Join thousands of people across the country as you walk, jog or run 5k or 10k. Or take part in a Pretty Muddy or Pretty Muddy Kids obstacle course and help them beat cancer sooner. 10am onwards. Hylands Park, Greenbury Way, Chelmsford, CM1 3PJ https://raceforlife. cancerresearchuk.org/

Sun 21 Ingatestone Hall Classic Car Show Alongside the array of classic vehicles and more on display there will be refreshments and a raffle at 3pm to win some small prizes, and autojumble stalls. 9.30- 4pm.

Ingatestone Hall, Hall Ln, Ingatestone, Essex, CM4 9NR http://www.classiccarevents.uk/ events/000754.php Sat 27 Harwich Maritime Festival The festival will reflect both the town’s rich maritime history and its vibrant creative community. It will also incorporate the RNLI’s National Lifeboat day. With a wide range of interesting attractions, activities, live music and stalls, both sea and land based, the Maritime Festival 2019 is not one to be missed! ” 10:00-22:00. Harwich Marina Sat 27 Farm Open Day at Lauriston Farm Come and find out what they do at their Farm Open Day. Learn about biodynamic farming, their farm and how they plan to expand their amazing work.You'll also meet their animals and get a chance to feed the sheep. 10:30-12:30. Goldhanger,CM9 8AH. www.lauristonfarm.co.uk/ Sun 8 Family Pond Dipping Drop in and have a go at pond dipping.

Children must be accompanied. 10am - 1pm. £3 per child. Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre, CM11 1WT Tues 30 Pirates of Hanningfield Join the Hanningfield Pirates as they set sail in search of the missing treasure. This event is for 4-8 year olds, children must be accompanied by an adult. £6 per child. 1012pm. Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre 01268 711001 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. We also obtain a lot of these listings online and highly recommend checking with the event holder before setting off to avoid disappointment.

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

TO ADVERTISE, CALL 01245 206577 OR EMAIL SALES@KIDAROUND.BIZ

DIARY DATES Sat 10 & Sun 11 The Essex HMVA Echoes of History Show The past and present meet at Echoes of History. They are excited to announce that the Echoes of History show has much more multi-period, living history groups with groups representing many periods of history and locations. From Vikings to the Western Front of the USA, World War one to the present day. 10am to 5pm. Barons Lane, Purleigh, Essex CM9 6PF. https://www. echoesofhistoryshow.com/ Throughout Aug Summer Festival Your perfect summer family day out providing you with even more fun and activities to immerse yourselves in! Audley End Miniature Railway. www.audley-end-railway.co.uk Fri 2 – Mon 12 “We Love Horses” Meet horses nose-to-nose, and have a go at pony grooming yourself at Redwings Ada Cole, near Harlow, this summer! Entry is completely free and dogs on leads are welcome too! There is also a café and a gift shop. every Fri, Sat, Sun and Mon 10am-4pm www.redwings.org.uk Tues 6 Family Carers - Thorndon Park Countryside Walk A gentle stroll through our beautiful Essex countryside with the company of a mindfulness practitioner, for some guidance on getting the most of being in the Great Outdoors. 2-4pm. The Avenue, Brentwood, CM13 3RZ https://affc.org.uk/ Weds 7 - Weds 21 Go Live!

Colchester’s Natural History Museum’s everpopular Go Live! events return this summer.

Offering the opportunity for your little ones to get up close and personal with amazing nature. Which fascinating animals will you see?

Find out more at: https://colchester.cimuseums.org.uk/events/ Wed 7 Invitation to View Visitors view the great chamber, garderobe, guest bedroom and two interesting fourposter beds on the first floor, and the great hall, dining room and kitchen on the ground floor, abbot’s house, chapel, cloister, guest house and riverside courtyard. The Abbey, Abbey Lane, Coggeshall. https://www.historichouses.org/houses/houselisting/the-abbey.html

Sat 31 Farm Open Day at Lauriston Farm Come and find out what they do at their Farm Open Day. Learn about biodynamic farming, their farm and how they plan to expand their amazing work.You'll also meet their animals and get a chance to feed the sheep. 10:30-12:30. Goldhanger,CM9 8AH. www.lauristonfarm.co.uk/

Fri 16 – Mon 2 (Sept) “We Love Ponies” Meet Adoption Stars Tinkerbell and Elvis during special meet and greets this summer at Redwings Ada Cole, near Harlow. Entry is completely free and dogs on leads are welcome too! There is also a café and a gift shop. Every Fri, Sat, Sun and Mon 10am-4pm www.redwings.org.uk Sun 18 Handsome horse Zippy’s Birthday Party Celebrate handsome horse and Adoption Star Zippy’s 13th birthday at Redwings Ada Cole, near Harlow, this summer. The birthday boy will be treated to a pampering groom, his very own birthday cake, and there will be party games and a quiz trail to join in with, too!

Entry is completely free and dogs on leads are welcome too! www.redwings.org.uk Sat 24 & Sun 25 History Comes Alive This Summer history invades Colchester Castle! Let the re-enactors from Historical Promotions take you back in time and bring history to life during. Bring the whole family and join Colchester Castle’s re-enactment weekend. https://colchester.cimuseums.org. uk/events/ Tues 27 Storytelling At The Castle Meet characters from history, hear their stories and discover the secrets of treasure, jewellery and adventure. Why not get involved by getting your little ones to wear their favourite costume. Included in Castle Admission. Colchester Castle. https:// colchester.cimuseums.org.uk/events/ Sat 31 Outdoor Summer Barnfest Nurture Barn will be hosting their fun-filled Barnfest festival again in July & August. It will include Moo Music, Boogiewoogies and Sign & Sing. Plus lots of props and bubbles!

10am – 2pm with doros open at 9:30. £6/£13 adults go free. The Nurture Barn, Braintree. https://thenurturebarn.com/barnfest19/

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Sun 1 Outdoor theatre - A Midsummer Night's Dream Join The Lord Chamberlain’s Men on the Back Lawn of Hylands House for Shakespeare’s enchanted masterpiece A Midsummer Night’s Dream – a play of unforgettable Shakespearean characters, high comedy and enough magical moments to wave a wand at!

Hylands Estate. £16/£8. 6pm - 9:30pm http://hylandsestate.co.uk/events/outdoortheatre-midsummer-nights-dream/ Sun 1 - Sun 8 Summer Festival Your perfect summer family day out providing you with even more fun and activities to immerse yourselves in! Audley End Miniature Railway. www.audley-end-railway.co.uk Sat 14 & Sun 15 Lawnmower Racing Championship While most people are content to use their lawnmowers to cut grass, a small band of adrenalin junkies are preparing their machines for something far more exciting – lawnmower racing! How fast can a lawnmower go? and watch, so for great entertainment, mud and madness, go and see a sport with a difference on this special weekend.Blake House Centre. https://www.blakehousecraftcentre.co.uk/ events.html

You can find more regularly updated listings online www.kidaround.biz www.kidaround.biz • Summer 19 • 27

CHILDCARE EARLS COLNE Earls Colne Primary School and Nursery

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

T FINGRINGHOE Roman River Preschool

Village Hall, Chapel Road 01206 729731, Melanie Weston

ARDLEIGH Ardleigh Preschool

Village Hall, Station Road 07517 430114 Jenny Scofield www.ardleighpreschool.co.uk

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Margeretting Road Galleywood Susan Mann 01245 34159 Msueavis@aol.com

sT*ly CLACTON-ON-SEA Chestnut Grove Kindergarten

The School House, 5 Pathfields Rd 01255 429029. Denise Hawke office@chestnutgrovekindergarten.co.uk www.nurseryclacton.co.uk

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BOXTED Little Owls Preschool

Cage Lane Gill Dedhar. 01206 273226 littleowlsboxted@live.co.uk www.littleowlsboxted.co.uk

sT BILLERICAY Little Legs Montessori Preschool

70A Laindon Road, CM12 9LD 07397 191844. Fiona D’Silva preschool@littlelegsnursery.com www.littlelegsnursery.com

Nayland Primary School Bear Street, Nayland, Nr Colchester, CO6 4HY. 01206 263054. Cheryl Leeks www.woodlandcornernayland.blogspot.co.uk

sTy*l NORTH FAMBRIDGE Deerlands Day Nursery

www.romanriverpreschool.co.uk

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GREAT BADDOW The Stables Daycare Nursery

Woodland Corner Preschool

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

melanie.weston@romanriverpreschool.co.uk

Include your listing here for just £30 per issue or £110 for the year. 01245 206577 sales@kidaround.biz

NAYLAND

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

sTly GREAT HORKESLEY Tiddlywinks Preschool 22A Coach Road Great Horkesley, CO6 4AT 01206 272669 Helen Taylor

sT* MALDON

ONGAR ABC Nursery, Preschool & After School Club

Stondon Road.

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

sT*ly STRATFORD ST MARY abc Preschool

Strickmere , CO7 6YG 01206 322466 kirsty Robinson admin@abcpreschoolstratford.co.uk www.abcpreschoolstratford.co.uk

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TIPTREE

Pebbles Private Kindergarten Ltd

Daisy Chain Nursery

ABC Day Nursery

22 Thoroughgood Road 01255 433339 Carol Thornton-Jones

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

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sT*y

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COLCHESTER

WICKFORD

Colchester High School Nursery

Viking Junior Academy

T*ly

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

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The Brambles 22 Grove Road 01621 810772 Kirstin or Sally

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

The Treehouse Club Preschool & Out of School Club Dollymans Farm, Doublegate Ln, Rawreth. 01268 956005 Jayne Golding adventure@thetreehouseclub.co.uk

sTy*l WRITTLE

The Treehouse Club Preschool

& Out of School Club

Norsey Woods Education Room, Outwood Common Road, 01277 656921 Emma Willliams adventure@thetreehouseclub.co.uk

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Langham Pre-school

Langham Community Centre, School Road,, Langham Hayley Jakeman langham.pre-school@btconnect.com 07930 963638

Woodham Mortimer Preschool

The Duckling Nursery

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Brookhead Studio, Brookhead Farm , Maldon Rd, CM9 6GP. 07742 228077. Jennifer Hull

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

MUNDON The Treehouse Club Preschool

& Out of School Club

Hannakins Farm Community Centre, Rosebay Avenue, Queens Park, 01277 297 009 adventure@thetreehouseclub.co.uk

sT*ly 28 • Summer 19 • www.kidaround.biz

Oxford House School

Small Steps Day Care

Writtle Green Preschool

Little Wycke Farm 01621 828767 Sarah Roe www.smallstepsdaycare.co.uk

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

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

CHILDCARE

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 CRECH -

www.kidaround.biz • Summer 19 • 29

Competitions Win a family pass to the BBC Summer Social BBC Summer Social is back for 2019 and bigger than ever. Taking place in the beautiful setting of Croxteth Country Park in Liverpool on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th August, it promises to be a weekend of fun for all of the family.

Saturday sees a big pop line up on the main stage along with CBBC favourites, broadcast live on the CBBC channel and on BBC Radio 2 with Jo Whiley. Busted take to the stage along with Rak-Su, Pixie Lott, John Newman, Nina Nesbitt, Max & Harvey, Amelia Gething, New Hope Club, Four of Diamonds, Lewys Ball, Rosie McClelland and Holly H. Also included in the line up are the Horrible Histories Movie and Britain’s Got Talent’s Mersey Girls.

The perfect feel good day for all the family.

Sunday is pitched towards younger festival go-ers, with Mr Tumble headlining the main stage alongside Andy Day & The Odd Socks, Dr Ranj, YolanDa’s Band Jam, Cook and Line from Swashbuckle, Hey Duggee and special live performances from big family shoes.

All around Croxteth Country Park, visitors can discover immersive activity zones, interactive and inspiring workshops, a spectacular range of outdoor and indoor activities and live appearances from the most popular children’s authors. Enjoy the likes of Horrible Histories: The Movie – Rotten Romans, BBC Sport Zone, Bedtime Stories, a Doctor Who experience, The Clangers Chillout Garden, and much more…

Tickets are on sale now at £23.50 (and £1.50 booking fee) and all activities are included in the price.

For more information, please visit the website at http://www.bbc.co.uk/summersocial

Minigolf at Blake House Craft Centre

Win tickets to see WICKED for you and your family!

Kids Week is back this summer and to celebrate we’re giving you the chance to win 4 tickets to WICKED. This is one of the many fantastic London shows taking part in Kids Week, Official London Theatre’s yearly promotion offering a free ticket to a child (aged 16 or under) when accompanied by a full paying adult, plus up to two extra children’s tickets at half price.

Tickets go on sale on 11 June for performances from 1 – 31 August. Head to www.OfficialLondonTheatre.com now for more information.

To enter and for full t&cs visit www.kidaround.biz

Challenge family and friends to a game of Minigolf as you negotiate the ramps and bridges, windmills and wells to play on their freshly refurbished 9 hole crazy golf course. Choose from their range of fun emoji golf balls, then see if you can get a hole-inone and find out who will be the ultimate champion.

Open all year round for family fun and a great addition to your day out at The Original Great Maze!

A family of four can play for just £12 plus a returnable deposit for club hire, but they are also offering you the chance to win one of two free family ticket by entering this competition via kidaround.biz Blake House Craft Centre, Blake End, Nr Braintree, Essex, CM77 6SH. www.blakehousecraftcentre.co.uk

Three Baby Annabell dolls and accessories to be won We’ve teamed up with Baby Annabell to give you the chance to win a Baby Annabell Bundle! Enter the competition for you chance to win a Baby Annabell doll, accessory and outfit! Baby Annabell has a host of exciting new ranges this summer, adding in new themes and additions to its popular collection of dolls, outfits and accessories. With an array of accessories to fit all 43cm dolls, these Baby Annabell additions are the perfect way to expand the collection, encourage role play and development in young children. To enter go online at www.kidaround.biz

To enter these and more competitions and to read our T&Cs go online at

www.kidaround.biz