Kiscene Magazine issue 1

Kidscene July-Sep 2012

Issue 1

WIN trip s s a l AC e to th nity u m Com in Farm ea! s n a Sw

Hello and welcome to the very first issue of Kidscene. We are really excited about bringing you Swansea’s only magazine dedicated to families!

In this edition we will be letting you know what’s on & where, in & around Swansea over the summer, giving you plenty of ideas on how to keep the kids occupied during the holidays.

As well as this,we have lots of party ideas & local clubs & classes.

Kidscene is also jam packed full of interesting articles & advice, reviews and of course our very handy Directory!

We hope you enjoy reading the magazine & find it really useful.

Kidscene has been put together by mums, for mums!

Contents 4

Local News - Win a Family Pass to the National Wetlands Llanelli

6

Feature School….Pen-y-fro Primary in Dunvant

8

Education & Childcare

13 Local Clubs & Classes 21 Parties & Entertainment 23 Win a Giant Cupcake by Mrs Cupcake 27 Win a Class Trip to Swansea Community Farm!

30 Out & About in Swansea 32 Book Review by Pen-y-Fro Primary 36 Kidscene Directory

Enjoy…

Nicky & Stef x Your Editors Kidscene Office : 3a Killan Road, Dunvant, Swansea, SA2 7TD Email: sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk Tel: 07979 283096/07795 172168 Distribution: 8000 copies through Primary schools & Day Nurseries in & around the Swansea area.

Kidscene is a totally independent, privately owned publication & we try to ensure that all information is accurate. However,we do not accept liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause.

All text & images used in this magazine are subject to copyright.

July / Sept 2012

To advertise email sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk

3

Local News

Email; sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk or post your name & telephone number to 3a Killan Rd, Dunvant,SA2 7TD to be in with a chance of winning our prize draw.

Entries must be received by the 31st July 2012.

Ticket is valid until 31.12.12 for 2 adults & 2 children under 16. We will contact the winner on 2nd August

The Botanical Gardens will be running themed family fun days throughout the Summer holidays, check out their website www.gardenofwales.org.uk for up to date information!

Everyone is welcome to join us for the 5th Gorseinon Funday and this years charity is for Ty Hafan, so come along and join in the fun that we have lined up, there will be children's rides, inflatable fun, refreshments, stalls, face painting, children's characters will be walking around all day , for the older ones "Bashers Licenced Bar" will be there to quench your thirsts and if that's not enough there will be a number of local dance groups doing performances throughout the day.

Free Admission, 12 noon - 6pm for more info call 07854-460512

Suitable for children aged 5 and over this wetland adventure gives you the chance to look out for wildlife & to explore areas that you can’t visit on foot in a traditional Canadian canoe !

Open throughout the school summer Sunday 15 Jul 2012 holidays at the Wetlands centre,Llanelli.

Full instruction will be given, but it is an enclosed inland waterway so there are no tides or current. Please see This years theme is Pirates & Princesses, www.wwt.org.uk for more details. and there will be prizes for the best

dressed, there will also be raft races, canoe races, jet ski displays and boat rides throughout the day, there will also 25-27 th August 2012 11 am-4 pm be a funfair, stalls, refreshments and the licenced bar.

A fantastic range of things to see Free Admission, fun starts 12 noon tel including traditional baking, coopering, 07854-460512 Loughor Boating Club, archery, storytelling and craft stalls at Loughor Swansea SA4 2TW the Museum.

Saturday 28 Jul 2012

July / Sept 2012

To advertise email sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk

5

School News

Jack colour n io n U t n la p n e Year 3 childr the d flowers for co-coordinate rty. bilee Yard Pa u J d n o m ia D Queen’s If you would like your school to feature in our next edition, please get in touch at www.sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk or give us a call on 07795 172168.

We’d love to give you a mention!

Year 1 pupils show off our brand new ‘Willow Walkway’ made by the gardening Club.

School News “We’re going sailing!” Nursery pupils, creatively make their own ‘boat’ out of toys that are supplied for Foundation Phase at playtimes.

ets, eir fishing n th ld o h s il p Year 1 pu ring some tu p a c to d r a g. looking forw pond-dippin t s il h w ls a pond anim Photos thanks to Colorfoto.

Reading outside in th e sun. Year 2 children show that re ading is a top priority at Pen-y-fro !

A Year 1 pupil h aving a great tim e climbing up a tr ee in our forest area.

Thanks to Year 6 pupils for the captions.

July / Sept 2012

To advertise email sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk

7

Education & Childcare Choosing a Day Nursery is undoubtedly one of the hardest choices you will ever have to make as a parent. Here are some of the most important things to look out for when choosing a nursery‌ * Does it have a homely feeling, happy children and happy confident staff? Has it been personally recommended to you? * Does it have qualified staff that are CRB checked? * Is it CSSIW registered or a member of the NDNA? Check this with staff. * Check the staff to child ratio. * Does it offer home cooked meals? * Does it have a safe,clean outdoor area?

9

UN89609V003 28-Feb-2011 15:06

Located on St James Gardens in a large Victorian house overlooking the park,The Children’s Room, is South Wales’ only Montessori accredited nursery school. The Montessori method believes that the teacher’s role is to aid and support the child’s exploration and creativity whilst the child is free to choose between different materials and activities and move freely around the nursery. The interaction between the child and their environment enables them to develop at their own pace and also helps foster independence, confidence and positive self-esteem from an early age.

As soon as you enter The Children’s Room you are struck by the bright and airy white rooms, the sense of calmness and the sound of happy children. The nursery caters for children from 2 to 5 years hosting a maximum of 22 children at any time. The children move freely between the 3 large, airy rooms and are able to choose from a wide range of activities. Through the french doors there is a small child-friendly garden which is easily accessible for when your child wishes to go outside, perhaps to visit the rabbits, play in the summer house or even the sand pit..

The child-led baby suite, which opened in September 2011, welcomes children from 3 months to 2 years and is spread over 3 large sunny rooms overlooking St James Gardens. It provides a caring and stimulating environment, where the younger children are able to explore within a free-flow environment with help and guidance from the staff.

As well as the garden, all of the children are regular visitors to St James Gardens.

From September 2012, The Children’s Room is proud to announce that it will be launching a bespoke Nanny and Babysitting Service. This will provide full time staff to suit your needs, as well as ad hoc help in the holidays and evenings. It will be provided by experienced and qualified staff who are fully CRB checked and hold paediatric first aid training.

Please contact Anne on 01792 535919 for more information or visit www .the-childrens-room.co.uk 11

Education & Childcare

Local Clubs & Classes Sing & Sign, who provide baby sign language classes, are excited to be voted finalists in the 2012 What’s On for Little Ones award for ‘Best development activity 0-2 years.’ Alongside Waterbabies and Baby Sensory they eagerly await the results. The classes were launched 10 years ago and each term 1000’s of families share the many benefits that baby signing bring.

Baby signing enables your little one to tell you what’s important to them well before they can speak.. The immediate benefit is reduced frustration for baby and parent but the benefits go way beyond that.. Research has shown that baby signing enhances speech and early vocabulary and when tested at 2½ signing babies know approximately 50 words more..

Beverley Thomas runs Sing and Sign in Swansea and says “For me, it’s the little things that your baby is able to tell you that you would otherwise have no idea about that are fascinating.

It gives you an early insight into their little personalities and interests”. She goes on to say “Our classes are small, fun and relaxed and using pictures, toys, props and an award winning music program, we make learning fun and easy!”

Please check online for details of FREE taster sessions, or contact Beverley for more information. They are now booking for September term, but places are limited so please book early to avoid disappointment or ask to be added to the waiting list.

C

July / Sept 2012

To advertise email sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk

13

is a captivating pre-school educational movement and music syllabus for babies, toddlers and children aged from 6 months. All classes are run by fully qualified Primary School Teachers who also hold ballet qualifications. The classes help to develop children’s self-expression, body awareness and confidence within a creative, nurturing and fun filled environment!

Classes include :Tip Toes (6-18 months) , Twinkle Toes (18 months- 2½ years) , Talent Toes (2½ 4 years) & RAD pre-primary (4+ years).

There are so many benefits to Tiny toes ballet including; * Confidence building * Poise * Rhythm * Language & Number * Co-ordination * Fitness * Imagination * Discipline * Agility * Strength & * Interaction

Classes are held in Sketty, Gowerton, Neath & Llanelli and will be commencing in Cardiff and t he Celtic Manor, Newport from September.

Please see www.tinytoesballet.co.uk for more information.

With the Olympics nearly upon us, there is no better time than the summer holidays to encourage your child to eat healthy and get active!

We all want our children to be healthy and happy, but in a world where life has been made much easier by cars, computers and convenience food, it is hardly surprising that a growing number of today's children risk becoming overweight.

All it takes is 60 minutes of physical activity to help increase fitness levels.

It’s ok to break activity into easier 15 minute slots throughout the day.

On a nice day why don't you bring out the bikes and scooters, hoola hoops, hoppers and skipping ropes, play football, make use of that trampoline if you have one, take a walk, play tennis, play catch, play tag, go play on one of our many wonderful beaches, or how about make an obstacle course! On a rainy day, (and lets face it we have loads of those!!) go for a swim, run around an indoor play centre, put on your wellies and do a Peppa Pig ( jump in those muddy puddles!) or even dance around your house!

If your child shows an interest in any sport, try and find a local club or class where they can give it a go, usually first classes are free to try out. Check out our local clubs and classes section for inspiration!

July / Sept 2012

To advertise email sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk

15

July / Sept 2012

To advertise email sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk

17

Local Clubs & Classes

19

Kite Theatre Group "KITE Theatre Group", originally known as "Kreative Imaginations Theatre Experience" was originally formed in February of 2009

by Andrew Bowen, A.K.A. children's entertainer "Mr Bubbles". Andrew had long felt that many children and teenagers were missing out on opportunities in drama, dance, singing and musical theatre because the costs were prohibitive, with most local theatre schools and groups charging fees for a whole term up-front. In today's volatile financial climate, many parents are unable or unwilling to commit to such an outlay, so KITE was set up to give children opportunities to attend 2-hour sessions where they could pay weekly when they attend. A single parent himself bringing up four daughters, Andrew understands the difference being able to pay weekly can make.

Andrew admits "The last 3 years have been quite a roller coaster, but now at last things are taking shape." There are drama classes for 3 - 5 year olds, 6 - 10 year olds, and 10 18 year olds in various venues in Swansea, Mumbles, Neath and Llanelli. Children pay £5 for their 2-hour session, except for the "KITE Minis" (3 - 5 year olds) who pay £4 for a 90-minute session, after a one-off enrolment fee of £10. All children of all ages are invited to attend a session as a "free taster" before enrolling.

Also notable about KITE is their annual "Summer School" weeks. These summer schools are a perfect alternative for children whose parents work in the summer holidays ... one being held in Swansea, and one in Llanelli. KITE Summer School is a 5 - day pantomime workshop, where the children spend 5 whole days producing a pantomime, which they then perform on stage for their

families on the Friday evening. Children attend from 9am - 5pm for the 5 consecutive days, Monday to Friday, and there is an optional earlier drop-off and later pick-up option for working parents at no extra cost.

The days are broken up with lots of games, competitions and also craft workshops where the children make bits of props and scenery for the show. The cost for the whole week is an amazing £75 per child, with discounts available if more than one child from the same house attends. Also note that these Summer Schools are open to any child, regardless of whether they are a KITE member or not! This year's Swansea Summer School is on August 13th - 17th in Swansea Metropolitan University Townhill Campus on Townhill Road. The Llanelli Summer School is on the following week ...

August 20th - 24th in the Sports Hall at Coedcae Comprehensive School. Places are strictly limited so ring early to book your child in to either or both of these.

So, where to for KITE in the future? "There are so many things planned at the moment which I don't want to talk about yet", says Andrew. "KITE is all about what the children can get out of KITE, not what KITE can get out of the children, and we are always looking for new exciting opportunities for them. The future looks very exciting indeed for our members."

To find out more about KITE Theatre Groups activities and events, or to book your child in for a free trial session or a place in Summer School, ring or text Andrew on 07768-520330, or email kitetheatre@ntlworld.com. You can also follow KITE on Twitter or Facebook.

Parties & Entertainment

21

carting or even horse riding!!

The options are endless.

So, your child’s party is looming, in some parents this Then… once you’ve chosen your can create a feeling of panic!! theme, comes the cake!

Where do you start? The Why not check out our party venue? The entertainment? section for plenty of ideas The cake? There’s so much on how to create the party of to take into consideration your child’s dreams! & so much on offer if you are to give your little angel the To advertise your venue, party of their dreams! From arty entertainment or catering crafty messy parties, to soft business please contact us at play parties,hiring a venue with sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk a party entertainer to the more or call 07979 283096 or 07795 adventurous options of go-

July / Sept 2012

To advertise email sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk

23

Advertise in Kidscene with adverts . starting from as little as

Cakes by Sugar & Spice

Let us help your child-friendly business reach primary school children from all over Swansea & beyond.

Call 07795 172168 or 07979 283096 or email us at sales@kidscenemagazine. co.uk Book by 31st July 2012 to receive special discounts on our Oct/Nov edition!!

(T&C’s Apply. Please ask for details.)

July / Sept 2012

To advertise email sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk

25

Now you can hire a wonderful and highly praised filled to the brim with the very best in soft play equipment. We also have a which is PIPA tagged (independently safety tested) and which is fun and safe for 7 year olds and under. You can even have a VIP (Very Important Piggy) Guest Appearance at your party plus MUCH more.

All the benefits of a private party - no more fighting for space within a soft play centre. We will bring the equipment to your venue of choice, set up and leave you to enjoy watching the guests having fun. Once the party is over, we will pack up and take away. Simple.

To add something extra special to your party, why not consider a Candy Buffet?

These are new to the UK and provide an extremely eye-catching display of traditional sweets that the guests can help themselves to. Traditional candystripe bags, tongs and scoops are also provided.

Soft Tots also bake delicious Cup Cakes in a wide variety of colours and design.

…

Win

A Half day Farm & Animal

Tour for your Class courtesy of Swansea Community Farm !!

Simply complete the following sentence in your own words to win this fabulous prize.

“ I think that my class should win a half day farm & animal tour at the Community Farm because………………..”

(In NO more than 50 words!)

The entry we receive that stands out from the rest will win!

Closing date: 1st September 2012,Please post your entries to Kidscene,3a

Killan Rd, Dunvant,SA2 7TD or email them to sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk & remember to tell us which school you are from!! Winners will be notified by 15th September.

Prize must be redeemed by July 2013.

July / Sept 2012

To advertise email sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk

27

29

23-24th - Jr Park Rangers, Brynmill Park. Giant Games.10.30-11.30 Sat 7th-15th - National Wetlands, Llanelli Mini Beast 24th - Rockpool Watch, 3.30 -4.30pm, Bishops Wood Hunt- 11am Dragonfly & Butterfly Walk 1pm Pond Countryside Centre, Caswell Contact Karen Jones Dipping 2.30pm 01792 361703 8th World Music Day - Botanical Gardens Wales 28th to 4th Aug - Pinocchio, Everyman Festival, St 8th Oxwich Seashore Safari- 2.45pm, slipway on Fagans. A show for all the family to enjoy. Open air Oxwich beach. Contact Judith Oakley, 07879837817.

Theatre. £7 each, family ticket (4 seats) £25. See Ages 3+ www.everymanfestival.co.uk 13th to 15th - Pennard Carnival Weekend 25th & 26th - Cycle Power and Ice Cream, Plantasia.

13th - Carnival Junior Disco for 11-14yrs- 6.3010.30am -4.00pm. Make your own ice-cream and learn 9.30pm. Tickets £2 how to make electricity using pedal power. Adults 14th - The Carnival 12.00pm - 5pm. The Evening £3.95 children £2.95.

Bash 8pm-12.30am Marquee with bar, pig roast and 25th -Jr Park Rangers,Oystermouth Castle, Crown & live music. Tickets £5.

Shield Making,10.30-11.30 14th - Mini Beast Hunt, National Wetlands,Llanelli, 26th - Jr Park Rangers, Tennis,Victoria Park, 11am Dragonfly & Butterfly Walk 1pm Pond Dipping Prebooking essential 2.30pm 26th - Volunteer Day, Community Farm, Cadle. 10am 14th - Pick it, Cook it, Eat it!, St Fagans, 11am & 2pm.

4pm. Call 01792 578384.

Harvest some fresh produce, then back to the kitchen 28th - Conservation Day, Swansea Community Farm, to cook it! Ages 8+ booking essential.

Cadle. 10am -3.30pm. £1 per person. 8-16yrs 14th - Sun 15th - A Day Out with Thomas The Tank 28th - Honey Harmony, 1.30-3.30pm, Swansea Engine at Gwilli Railway, 01267 238213 Community Farm, Fforestfach. Contact Chris Jones, 14th - Jolly Totz Children's Festival at Margam Park.

01792 578384 Help us extract the first honey of the 10am. 4-12yr olds. season whilst picking up some interesting fact about 14th - International Day of Dance, Botanical Gardens bees. £1 per person (honey not included).

Wales 29th - Crymlyn Bog Family Fun Day, 11-2pm, 14th - Archaeology For All, 10.30-4pm, Swansea Crymlyn Reserve Centre, Port Tennant. Contact Jamie Museum. Contact 01792 655208 Bevan, 01792 326450 Including pond dipping, guided A host of free activities including a heritage fair, talks, walks and environmental art. children's activities, and medieval re-enactment.

31st - Rockpool Watch, 11am-12pm, Bishops Wood 15th - Pontarddulais Classic Car and Vehicle Show, Countryside Centre, Caswell. Contact Karen Jones Festival Fields, Pwll, Llanelli 01792 361703 www.pontardulaisclassicmotorclub.webs.com 17th - Welsh Song & Rhyme Time, Port Talbot Library 1st floor. Parent & baby 2pm. Call Patsy 1st - Camarthen Food Festival, Camarthen Town Bracewell 07966936270.

21st - Family Workdays, Swansea Community Farm, Centre. Family entertainment day.

1st to 31st - Botanics in Bloom, Singleton Park. With Cadle. Whole families welcome. 10am-3.30pm £2 per guided walks, workshops amd other children's fun. person.

4th - Dungeons and Dragons Day, Oystermouth 21st - Mini Beast Hunt, National Wetlands, Llanelli Castle, Mumbles. Get close to baby dragons, come for 11am Canoe Safari & Bike Trails Open! 12.45pm an adventure in the magnificent red and gold Flamingo Watch & Talk 1pm Pond Dipping 2.30pm processional dragon, and then relax with dragon tales 21st - A Tudor Garden Guided Walk St Fagans, from around the world. 11am-5pm call 361302 11am&1pm 21st - Port Eynon Seashore Safari, 12.45pm, outside 4th - Mini Olympics Games, Swansea Market and City Centre. the shops, .Port Eynon Contact Judith Oakley For 4th - Animal Husbandry, Community Farm, Cadle. more info call 07879837817. Ages 3+ 10am - 12.30pm. £2 per person. age 8-16yrs. Learn 21st- 2/9 - Family Fun Day Swansea Prom hand's on how to handle and look after different www.activeswansea.com animals. Call 01792 578384.

22nd - Mini Beast Hunt, National Wetlands, Llanelli 4th & 5th - Flamingo Fun Days, National Wetlands, Canoe Safari 12.45pm Flamingo Watch & Talk 1pm Llanelli. 11am - 5pm. 01554 741087.

Pond Dipping 2.30pm 5th- Gower Show, - Penrice Castle Park, Reynoldston, 23rd to 21st Aug - Playscheme, Swansea Community Farm, Cadle. 10am to 2.30pm. £1 per child. 9am to 6pm. Adults £10 Children/ Seniors £5 under 5yrs free.

8-16yrs, under 8's welcome accompanied by adult.

6th & 7th - Playscheme Community Farm, Cadle. £1 per child. 8-16yrs, under 8's welcome accompanied by adult.

7th - Butterflies & Moths, Gelli Aur Country Park, Llandeilo. Family fun day 2pm.

7-9th - Animal Antics: Birds of Prey. Plantasia.

10.30,12, 2, 3.15pm Call 01792 474555 to book 11th - Mini Merlin Festival, St Catherines Walk, Carmarthen. Fun run for children. Call 07968859260.

11th - Farm Clwb, Community Farm Cadle. £1 per person. 8-16yrs. 10am -12.30. Help out at the Farm.

13th & 14th - Playscheme, Community Farm, Cadle. £1 per child. 8-16yrs, under 8's welcome accompanied by adult.

14th - Film - Shrek, Swansea Big Screen,Castle Sq. Free event. 1pm+3.30pm Call 01792 635428.

14th- Animal Olympics, GelliAur Park, Llandeilo.

Call 01558 668885.

16th - Volunteer Day, Community Farm, Cadle. 10am 4pm. Call 01792 578384.

18th to Sun 19th - Dolls House Exhibition, Margam Park. 01639 895897 18th &19th - Tree Festival, Botanical Gardens Wales, 10am - 5pm Come & have fun with trees!

18th & 19th - The Villagers, St Fagans, 10am - 5pm.

The English Civil War Society comes to town!Meet the Surgeons, cider makers and crafts people with an insight into their daily lives.

20th - Walk to the Worm. 12pm to 4.30pm Worms Head Rhossili. Adults £4 Children £2. Booking essential, call 01792 390636.

21st to 23rd - Tribes, Teeth & Tarantulas, Plantasia.

Call 01792 474555 to book.

21st- Lion King- Castle Sq, Big screen.Free.1pm + 3.30pm 23rd - Family Bat Walk, St Fagans. 8pm - 10pm. Join an exciting after dark journey around the museum to find the bats! Meet at main entrance at 8pm. £1.50 adults and £1 children.

25th to 27th - Bank Holiday Fun, St Fagans. 11am to 4pm. A range of things to see including traditional baking, archery, story telling and craft stalls.

25th - Blackberry Picking Day, National Wetlands, Llanelli. 11am & 2pm. Call 01554 741087.

26th - Rhossili Down Walk, Rhossili. 11am to 3pm.

Adult £3 Children £1.50. Call 01792 390636 to book.

27th - Animal Magic Bank Holiday Special, Margam Park. Features, Creature Feature Going Ape - the Gorillas, Tiny the Dinosaur, Asops fabels with Owen Staton, children's shows with Mr Bubbles and much more. Adults £7 Children £6 Family £26 OAP £6 Students £7 28th - Muppets- Castle Sq, Big Screen. Free. 1pm + 3.30pm 31st - High Tide Watch & BBQ, National Wetlands, Llanelli. 6pm tide watch & BBq 7pm. 2hrs. Call 01554 741087.

July / Sept 2012

1st - Sandy Seashore Safari, Oxwich. 12pm. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Call 07879 837817.

1st - Beach Race, Swansea Prom.

1st to 3rd - Summer Holiday Fun, National Wetlands, Llanelli. All day.

Mondays Penlan 10-10.30am Killay 10.30-11.00am Pennard 11.20-11.45am Pontaddulais 2.00-2.30pm St Thomas 2.00-2.30pm Tuesdays Gorseinon 2.15 - 2.45pm Brynhyfryd 10.00 - 10.30am Sketty 10.30-11.00am Wednesday Morriston 10.30-11.00am Oystermouth 11.00-11.30am & 2.30-3.00pm Clydach 2.15-2.45pm Gowerton 10.30-11.00am (Rhyme Time) Swansea Central 10.00-10.30am & 2.00-2.30pm Thursday (StoryTime) Swansea Central 2.00-2.30pm Friday Fforestfach 2.15-2.45pm Gowerton 9.30-10.00am Pennard 9.15-9.45am Townhill 10.30-11.00am 15th - Pond Dipping, Oxwich. 10.30am. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Call 07879 837817 30th - Rockpool Rumble, Oxwich. 11.45am. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Call 07879 837817.

To advertise email sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk

31

Book Review . . . . . .

By

Can Ella’s love bring her mum back? It is a real life story that is full of suspense and excitement. Ella is an 11 year old girl whose mum is about to have a baby. She has a step dad called Jack and her real father who visits from time to time. Ella’s mum has a baby boy Sammy who is healthy and well but Ella’s mum falls into a deep coma and won’t wake up! Ella’s life gets turned upside down ……Whales are Ella’s project in school and she becomes very interested in them and starts telling her mum even though she is in a coma and…….

I absolutely adore this book and I honestly couldn’t put it down! It could actually happen and sadly it does. My favourite part is the ending which I’m not going to tell you! This story made me feel very sorry for people who go through this and very grateful that I haven’t. The illustrations in this book are excellent and the story line is great as well. I would recommend this book to Year 5 pupils and onwards as younger pupils may find it difficult to understand and read. This is an excellent book sure to put a smile on any advanced readers face. Can Ella’s love bring her mum back?

By Seren, Year 6.

12 year old Greg Heffley writes about his very hard life with an older brother,Rodrick ( and how to survive middle school). Now that Rodrick knows that Greg has another journal he’d better keep it out of sight. I chose this book because it is really funny and exciting!

I really like this book,I couldn’t put it down. My favourite part is where Manny makes Greg a present (a tin foil ball with tooth picks sticking out of it) but Greg doesn’t like it so he throws it on Rowley’s bed (because he’s sleeping over) a while later Rowley sits on his bed so he sits on the tinfoil ball too! Manny is my favourite character because he is really cute and he always blames everything on Greg! I really like the illustrations because they make me laugh and explain the story in a fun way. I would recommend this book to 9-13 year olds. Most of my friends love it, so you should to!

By Daisy, Year 6.

A tale of friendship,sisters and learning to trust. Cathy Cassidy grabs the readers attention throughout this moving and exciting book, along with beautiful illustrations. I chose this book because I could not put it down! Skye Tanberry is an individual,imaginative,eccentric and friendly 12 year old. But because of her pretty and popular twin sister Summer taking all of the limelight,will Skye ever step out of her sister’s shadow?

I loved reading this book because I can relate to Skye,as I have a sister of my own and our ages are very similar. My favourite part of the story was Halloween night, and everyone goes into the mysterious gypsy caravan to hear a spooky story. I like it when the neighbourhood prankster Alfie Anderson sneaks up on them and makes them really scared! My favourite character has to be cheeky,energetic and adventurous Coco, Skye’s younger sister, because she always jokes around and makes me smile! The story made me feel puzzled and confused at times, as there was a cliffhanger at the end of nearly every chapter! It also made me feel very happy so it cheered me up every time I read it! would recommend this book to girls aged 10-13 who are looking for something more on the girl’s point of view rather than the tomboys. In this book you’ll lose yourself in Skye’s story…..follow the dream!!

By Georgia

33

35

budgets. 01792 895413 Tiny Toes Ballet - Weekly classes in Sketty, www.mrscupcake.co.uk info@mrscupcake.co.uk Gowerton, Neath & Llanelli. 07864 857920 www.tinytoesballet.co.uk

Baby Classes

Children’s Clothing

Monkey Music - Music classes in Mumbles & SA1 01792 260026 www.monkeymusic.co.uk

J&S Products - School Uniform suppliers.Tycoch Road,Tycoch,Swansea.

01792 206658 www.js-products.co.uk

Holibods - Various locations. 01792 813052/07507 666073 www.holibods.co.uk sian@holibods.co.uk

Children’s Party Ideas

Artibods - www.artibods.co.uk artibods@gmail.com Cookibods- www.cookibods.co.uk cookibods@hotmail.co.uk 01792 701613 / 07760 884449 Sing & Sign - Baby signing classes. Various locations. 07583 087157. www.singandsign.co.uk beverlrythomas@singand sign.co.uk Cariad Colourstrings Kindergarten MusicPennard,Bishopston & Swansea. Rhian Clement 01792 233978/07772533891. www.cariadcolourstringskindermusic.co.uk

Cake Makers/Decoraters Sugar & Spice Cakes - Oxford Street, Swansea,SA1 3JG 01792 642713 www.sugarspicecakes.co.uk Suzibelles Treats - Party Cakes Specially Made to Order, 83 Castle Road,Mumbles.

01792 539959 Cupcake Heaven Swansea - Cupcakes,mini & giant cupcakes & occasional cakes for everyone that are completely unique. 07732 687853 www.cupcake-heavenswansea.co.uk

Let’s get Messy - Fun filled parties for all ages! Bethan 07791 544715 letsgetmessyparties@live.co.uk www.letsgetmessyparties.co.uk Loopy Lews Magic & Mayhem Show - All areas covered. 07899 093065/01792 585335 info@loopylews.co.uk www.loopylews.co.uk Kool Krafty Kidz - Fun themed crafty parties.Swansea,Neath & Port Talbot. 07702 223939 noelle@koolkraftykidz.co.uk www.koolkraftykidz.co.uk Mad Science - After school programs,workshops,parties & special events.01792 348205 www.madscience.org info@madsciencesouthwales.com Mr Bubbles- Children’s entertainer, Magic,Balloon modelling, Comedy, Ventriloquism,Music, Party games (for 3-9 years) - 01792 361175.

Fun4Faces Face Painting - Face painting, Fun days, charity events etc..Neath & Swansea area.07773 027208 www.fun4faces.org.uk fun4faces@hotmail.co.uk Kindercafe -Swansea. Cafe,bistro & party venue. 01792 653688 www.kindercafe.co.uk

Childcare

Twizzle Lodge - Uplands,Swansea, SA2 0LP Mrs Cupcake - Cupcakes, celebration cakes 01792 297060 www.twizzlelodge.co.uk & wedding cakes with prices to suit all

The Children’s Room (Montessori) Uplands,Swansea,SA1 6DY 01792 535919/07800 511191 liz@the-childrensroom.co.uk www.the-childrens-room.co.uk The Rose Garden Day Nursery - Uplands, Swansea, SA2 0GU. 01792 465424 info@rosegardendaynursery.co.uk www.rosegardendaynursery.co.uk

Church hall, Sketty Park Rd,SA2 9AS £1 0844 2436270 Tots & Toddlers Swansea Group- Fri 9.3011am (during term Time) Bethel U.R. Church hall, Sketty Park Rd,SA2 9AS £1 0844 2436270

Children’s Gift Shops

Eve’s Toy Shop - Newton Rd,Mumbles.

Kids Come First Day Nursery- Walter 01792 366668 & King St,Llandeilo 01558 Rd,Swansea,SA1 5NW 01792 911436/07583 824755 174251 www.swanseachildcare.com nicolaclapham@yahoo.co.uk

Days Out

Mes Enfents Private Pre-school Nursery 742 Mumbles Rd,Mumbles,SA3 4EL. 01792 366366 Mesenfants@btopenworld.com

Swansea Council- www.myswansea.info (For updates)

Forge Fach Day Nursery - Forge Fach Community Centre,Clydach. 01792 849071 www.forgefachdaynursery.co.uk forgefachdaynursey@hotmail.co.uk

Swansea Community Farm - Fforestfach, SA5 4BA, 01792 578384

National Botanic Garden of Waleswww.gardenofwales.org.uk Aspire Day Nursery - Pontardulais Rd,Gorseinon. 01792 892132/07852 159950 Wetlands Centre Llanelli- 01554 741087 www.aspiredaynursery.co.uk info.llenelli@wwt.org.uk aspiredaynursery@hotmail.com

Highgate Day Nursery Uplands - Swansea, SA2 0QA 01792 281120 info@highgatedaynursery.co.uk www.highgatedaynursery.co.uk Highgate Day Nursery Morriston Swansea, SA6 6NN 01792 298080 info@highgatedaynursery.co.uk www.highgatedaynursery.co.uk Swansea Babysitting Agency - Helping parents in Swansea find babysitters 07970 795742 www.swanseababysitting.co.uk

NCT Bumps & Babies Swansea Group - Mon 9.30-11.30am (during term time)Bethel U.R. July / Sept 2012

Entertainment Skidz Karting - Fforestfach Ind Estate,Swansea,SA5 4DJ. 01792 580927 www.skidzkarting.co.uk

Family Photographers Rasa Mombeini Photography - 07972 585506 www.rasamombeini.com rmombeini@yahoo.com

Family Friendly Businesses Trainer Mini - Carmarthen Rd,SA5 8LW 01792 651505 www.trainermini.co.uk Cardiff Pools - 2 Link Trade Park, Off Penarth Rd, Cardiff, CF11 8TQ 02920 712444 www.cardiffpool.co.uk

To advertise email sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk

37

Gymnastics Clubs

Soft Play

Gymnastic Studios Gorseinon,Mumbles,Sketty & Swansea.

07722 859778 www.gymnasticstudios.co.uk gymnasticstudios@hotmail.co.uk

Cafe Play - Newton Rd,Mumbles. 07796 878615

Hairdressers Joshuas Kids - Newton Rd,Mumbles, SA3 4AX 01792 367774 www.joshuasofmumbles.com

Horse Riding Cimla Equestrian Centre - Cimla,Neath, SA12 9SL, 01639 644944 www.cimla.co.uk info@cimla.co.uk Pentre Riding Stables & Accomodation Brecon Rd, Pen-y-cae,SA9 1GJ 01639 730639/07813 604955 www.pentrestables.co.uk info@pentrestables.co.uk

Martial Arts First Strike - Freestyle Karate & Kickboxing.Clydach.01792 449970/ 07792 534968 www.firststrikekarate.co.uk anthonyevans39@hotmail.com

Play King - Dafen,Llanelli,SA14 8QW 01554 757808 info@theplayking.com www.theplayking.com World of Play - 16 Cwmdu Ind Estate,Fforestfach,Carmarthen Road,SA5 8JF 01792 585490 Soft Tots Play Hire - Soft Play Hire (0-5 years) ,Candy Buffets & Cupcake. 07539 775959 www.softtots.com info@softtots.com

Theatre/Drama Schools Kite Theatre Group- Swansea Neath,Mumbles & Llanelli. 07768 520330 kitetheatre@ntlworld.com North Gower Youth Theatre - Llanmorlais Community Hall. 01792 386492 www.northgoweryouththeatre.co.uk

Tutors Swansea Tuition Centre- (Ages 6+) Woodfield St,Morriston 01792 700111 swanseatuitioncentre.co.uk English,Maths & GCSE Science

Jenny Treasure Tae Kwon Do Kindercafe,Swansea Tue/Thurs 6.30-7.45pm 01792 511545 /07523 968020 j_treaure@hotmail.com www.treasureThe Learning Curve - (Ages 5+) Newton Rd, tkd.co.uk Mumbles.01792 366434 info@tlcmumbles.co.uk English & Maths Music Teachers tuition.

Rhian Clement- Flute lessons at Pennard To advertise in our Kidscene Directory costs only Com Hall. Sat am. Age 8+ All levels. 01792 per entry (or if you take out an advert with 233978/07772 533891 us!) & reaches a minimum of 8000 school children crclement@hotmail.com

from all over Swansea & the surrounding area..

Rugby Rugby Tots - Pre school & Toddler courses 2-7 years in Clydach,Swansea,Morriston & Mumbles. 0845 3133253 www.rugbytots.co.uk clive@rugbytots.co.uk

Deadline for entries is the 24th August 2012.

Just email us at sales@kidscenemagazine.co.uk or call us on 07979 283096 or 07795 172168

39