May/Jun
e 2019
Your handbag sized guide
www.kidscenemagazine.co.uk
ISSUE 41
Take your St. Michael's very first steps School... towards a super Take your very successful future first steps with ourtowards popular a super successful Preparatory future with our School, for 3 to popular Preparatory 11 year School, for olds. 3 to 11 year olds.
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Credit: The Sunday Times
Happy babies & children in a safe, stimulated environment, where they can develop & reach their full potential
Big s t n e Mom
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All stars
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Big moments start Mae sawl moment with All Stars Cricket fawr yn dechrau gyda chriced All Stars An 8 week, fun and active programme for girls and boys aged 5-8!
Giving children the chance to play, learn great skills and meet new friends. All Stars will also recieve their very own personlised kit!
Play at your local All Stars Cricket centre Starting from May 2019 Register at allstarscricket.co.uk
Rhaglen 8 wythnos ddifyr ac egnĂŻolar gyfer bechgyn a merched 5-8 oed!
Rhoi cyfle i blant chwarae, dysgu sgiliau gwych a chwrdd â ffrindiau newydd. Bydd chwaraewyr All Stars hefyd yn derbyn eu pecyn personol eu hunain!
Chwaraewch yn eich Canolfan Griced All Stars leol Criced All Stars yn dechrau ym Mai 2019 - Ewch i allstarscricket.co.uk i gofrestru
M ay / J u n e
PA G E
6 9 9-10 12 17 21
JUST JUM P ! COMPETITIONS W H A TS O N BOOK REVIEWS EASY P EASY P IZZA RO L LS GET UP!...
All Stars Cricket Returns for 2019! The ECB's programme to inspire the next generation of cricketers will run in over 2,000 clubs across England and Wales this summer. All Stars Cricket is a fantastic initiative from the England and Wales Cricket Board that began in 2017 and is aimed at providing children aged five to eight with a great first experience in cricket. 2018 was a strong year for All Stars in South West Wales with over 1,000 children taking part across 30 clubs and we are looking to build on that again this summer
tcard-generic-a 1 for 28/02/2018 10:54 By (3).pdf registering All Stars Cricket,
your child will be guaranteed eight weeks of jam-packed fun, activity and skills development. The programme is suitable for all children new to cricket and sport as the sessions are designed to teach the basic skills of the game. For an hour a week over an eight-week period, our fully trained and vetted activators will deliver game-based activities that teach basic cricket skills. Every child that registers for the All Stars Cricket Programme will receive a bonus participant pack including, a backpack, cricket bat, cricket ball, a personalised
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NEXT EDITION | July/August 2019 COPY DEADLINE | June 17 th 2019 20,000 copies of Kidscene Magazine are delivered directly into primary schools from SA1 to SA15 areas bi-monthly.
shirt with name, cap and activity book. Every child that returns to the All Stars Cricket from 2018 will receive the new kit to progress their development as an All Star, it includes: a new backpack, cricket bat and ball, a new star design personalised shirt, stumps and an activity book. All Stars Cricket is also fantastic for parents. For an hour a week all mums and dads are invited to get involved and play cricket with their children. We know this is a great way to spend time with your child and create memories that will last a lifetime. Adam (age 7, almost 8) who played in Gowerton Cricket Club says he loves doing all the different games and activities at All Stars Cricket, he really likes the kit, especially the name on the front of the T-shirt, and the Activity Book looks cool this year! He also has a cap again this year (there wasn’t one as a Year 2 returner last year), which is much better than the water bottle. He would recommend All Stars to his friends as he thinks they would enjoy all of it, and the best bit about Gowerton CC is having a burger from the BBQ with his Dad at the end while he waits for his big brother to finish his training too.
Opening Tennis Up across Swansea NATURE VALLEY BIG TENNIS WEEKENDS - Try tennis for free in Wales at a Nature Valley Big Tennis Weekend event. Free open days will be taking place throughout the year with sessions to suit the whole family. Rackets and balls will be provided, so whether you’ve never picked up a racket before or you're a seasoned regular – there’s opportunity for everyone to get involved. www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/OpenDays “I want people to come & try tennis and enjoy the great things we have on offer. There are loads of free & low cost opportunities to try playing tennis in Wales and our tennis venues & coaches can’t wait to welcome people along”– Simon Johnson CEO Tennis Wales Registered tennis venues & accredited coaches are opening their courts throughout 2019 as part of two national campaigns to open the game up to new players. Tennis Wales, in partnership with the LTA, are encouraging clubs & coaches in Swansea to reach out to local families who are keen to jump on court and give the sport a go.
TENNIS FOR KIDS - Tennis for Kids is a fun starter course for kids aged between 4 and 11 who have never played tennis or have played very little before. Packed full of games and drills to get kids active, it also gives parents the chance to join in too.
Tennis for Kids includes six tennis sessions led by an accredited tennis coach, a racket and ball set, and a personalised t-shirt - all delivered for just £25 (+ £4.99 P&P). Courses are available now – simply find one near you and sign up today! www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/TennisForKids Tennis for Kids and Nature Valley Big Tennis Weekends can all be booked online, but if you have any questions simply give us a call on 029 2046 3335.
Tiny Toes ballet Danceathon... Tiny Toes Ballet Swansea is an Award-Winning Programme that is fully integrated with the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum and offers classes for babies and children from 6 months- 7 years old, across Swansea.
This month Tiny Toes Ballet Swansea are excited and proud to be holding a Danceathon to raise their £5000 target to donate to Great Ormand Street Children's Hospital. Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) is a specialist children's hospital offering 63 different specialities. It offers the UK’s widest range of health services for children on one site. 40% of GOSH patients are aged under 4 and every day, 618 children arrive at GOSH. Our support can give seriously ill children the best chance to fulfil their potential and ensure that they get the best possible care in fantastic facilities. Tiny Toes Ballet Swansea will be dancing with their pupils and members of the public to help raise awareness and money for this hugely important cause. Follow Tiny Toes Ballet Swansea on Facebook to stay up to date with their Danceathon information so you can join in too if you like! There is also a Just Giving donation page if you would like to make any small donation. www.justgiving.com/tinytoesballet www.tinytoesballet.co.uk/swansea
Wales Airshow will be returning to Swansea Bay on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 July. This is one of the largest free events in the UK. Organised by Swansea Council, it will once again welcome the return of the magnificent Red Arrows as well as other exciting air displays, live stage entertainment, ground displays and trade stands etc.
2019 is the 50th anniversary of Swansea being awarded city status and as part of the celebrations, there will be a new ‘After-Dark’ evening display on Saturday 6 July. Starting at 8.30pm, you’ll be able to enjoy live music from bands performing hits from artists popular in 1969; hot air firing balloons spaced out and tethered along Swansea beach, two display aircraft with fireworks firing off their wings and followed by the Tigers parachute display team doing a night parachute jump. All details can be found on the official website; walesairshow.co.uk The full timetable for the weekend is available by downloading the Wales Airshow App from the App Store currently priced at just £1.99. As well as real time updates to the display schedule and all the latest news about the weekend, there’ll also be local offers including discounts on restaurants, bars and hotels on the App.
Tr y S o m e t h i n g NEW This year! Prepare to exercise every one of the 638 muscles in your body while being low impact, low stress and revitalising. Rebounding is suitable for the young to elderly, women and men and from absolute beginners to professional athletes.
New classes...
M O N DAY 9:30 -10:15AM & 10:30 -11:15AM Pennard Community Hall T U E S DAY 9:30 - 10:15AM Parklands Church, Sketty Park W E D N E S DAY 7:00 - 7:45PM Waunarlwydd Community Centre T H U R S DAY 7:30 - 8:15PM Ebeneezer Chapel, Dunvant BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL AS REBOUNDERS ARE LIMITED!
Find us
just jump
TO BOOK Direct message Stef via the Facebook page ‘Just Jump’ or call/text on 07388 054097
in it, rebounding helps you reduce fat and increase your muscle to fat ratio.
‘the most efficient form of exercise yet devised by man ' Three times more effective than running.
NASA
Whether you want to lose some extra weight, shift that stubborn cellulite, de-stress or just feel that little bit healthier, lighter and brighter, rebounding with Just Jump has it all covered. Brand New Just Jump rebounding classes started at the beginning of April 2019 and are already going from strength to strength. Working from local community centres around Swansea, the classes lasting 45 mins are small with 12 bellicon® rebounders per class. The bellicon® is an extremely high quality rebounder with incomparably high elasticity due to the bungee ring suspension and top quality bungee cords. Training on a bellicon® is therefore quite different to the conventional spring trampoline. Workouts are pure fun with great music and not too much choreography, so don't worry if your rhythm or coordination is not the best, it will improve quickly! What i can guarantee though, is that rebounding will change your body shape as it tones and tightens your muscles and skin. I can also guarantee that it will de-stress you!
A fun way to relieve stress... Rebounding is not just about working out and losing weight, it’s also a fun way to relieve stress. People are now very aware of the power of exercise to combat the negative effects of stress, and bouncing on a rebounder is the best way to release that stress, increase balance and move your lymphatic system, all while burning fat and having lots of fun without adding extra stress on your joints.
So how does it work?
Rebounding relies on the repetitive bouncing on a trampoline and is lots of fun for many people but did you know that bouncing up and down this way actually has profound detoxifying, energizing and strengthening effects on the body? Think about your day. Most of our time living and exercising is experienced on the horizontal plane as we sit at work, walk etc... Rebounding is unique in that it takes our energy into the vertical axis, so that the beneficial forces of gravity related to acceleration (g-forces) can be accessed to maximize impact on the body. Cleansing and Cellulite During your bouncing, the thyroid gland is stimulated which consequently leads to less fat and cellulite. As you perform repetitive bounces on your rebounder, the thyroid wakes up and begins cleansing itself and the entire lymphatic system of any stored fat. This consequently leads to cellulite elimination from the inside. Apart from the cellulite-loss and calorieburning properties that are involved
Healthy Bones Regular rebounding also has a lot to offer to your muscles, bones, and your entire skeletal system. The G-force which occurs the very moment you land on the surface of a rebounder, applies gentle pressure to your bones, thus strengthening them, bounce after bounce. This also affects your joints, ligaments, and tendons which become stronger too. Training using a rebounder increases bone mass and bone density which in turn promotes a healthy skeletal system and prevents skeletal problems like osteoporosis. Older people can benefit from using a rebounder regularly as well. One of the most characteristic properties of human bones is that they become stronger under pressure. On the other hand, they tend to become weaker when there’s no stress involved. Balance & Coordination Many people who are new to the world of rebounders find it difficult to maintain their balance during their bouncing in the beginning. However, after some training, their bodies get accustomed to the landing on the rebounder surface. This can boost the balance of any individual as the body learns to re-adjust between consecutive bounces. Repeating this process frequently allows the body to learn how to quickly readjust at every loss of balance in the future. Moreover, as the ocular nerves and the inner ear canals are stimulated during your bouncing to allow you to land safely, a wholebody cooperation and coordination are promoted to give you an even greater sense of balance. One question i do get asked a lot is about bladder control after having children. The good news is that rebounding can actually be incredibly effective for bladder control. Bouncing on an unstable surface provides a constant balance challenge leading to the involuntary contractions of the deep core muscles and the weakened sphincter muscle (experienced by many women and new mums). Through low impact exercise, strength can be regained – it might not come straight away, but it will develop over time. To try out a class, get in touch to book your space. Message Stef on 07388054097 or contact via Just Jump f.
TENNIS
taster
6 coaching sessions, a racket & ball set and a personalised t-shirt – all for £29.99
Sign up now tennisforkids.co.uk
Competitions
20,000 copies of Kidscene Magazine are delivered directly into primary schools from SA1 to SA15 areas bi-monthly. NEXT EDITION | May/June 2019 COPY DEADLINE | April 17th 2019
May
4th-19th - May Weekends at the WWT Wetlands, Llanelli. Including den building, minibeast hunt and pond dip, flamingo talk, pond dipping and craft workshop. 4-5th - Teddy Bears Picnic at Gwili Railway. Bring your own picnic, rug and teddy bear for a ride on our trains! Lots of prizes and activities. 6th - Come Train your Dragon at Margam Park. 10am. Enjoy our fantastic ‘Dragon Display Team’ Watch in awe as two giant Dragons swoop and soar. Be captivated by the enormous Valerian Dragon. Say ‘Hello’ to ‘Epico’ The Dragon and Sir Aurelious Jones, the pirate knight.
Be in with a chance of winning A FAMILY TICKET to see the MADAGASCAR THE MUSICAL OR ZOG at the Grand Theatre, Swansea.
Be in with a chance of winning ONE OF THREE FOLLY FARM FAMILY PASSES (for 4 people). Simply answer the question below... 2019 is the Visit Wales Year of…what? A. Dumplings B. Dandelions C. Discovery
11th - Blaenhonddan Community Council Family Fun Day. A family fun day with children's activities, displays and stalls for local residents. 12-4pm at the Owain Glyndwr Community Hall. 15th - 16th - The Girl With Incredibly Long Hair at the Pontadawe Arts Centre. This Easter join Rapunzel, her Mam, and her new friend Daf in the forest as they set off on an adventure, for which they’ll need your help. Y Ferch gyda’r Gwallt Hynod Hir / The Girl with Incredibly Long Hair is a family show from We Made This which reimagines the story of Rapunzel for our times.
18th - Wales on Wheels at the Waterfront Museum. Vehicles of all kinds gather on Museum Green and Dylan Thomas Square for a celebration of Wales on wheels. Weather dependent. From motorcycles, buses and trucks, to the amazing Penydarren steam locomotive. 21-25th - Madagascar the Musical at Swansea Grand Theatre.
23rd - 2nd June - Hay Festival 2019 with Haydays Children's Festival. Taking readers into the world of stories, and lighting the spark of what it takes to create them, is at the heart of HAYDAYS. Appearing on stage this year will be storytellers from all around the world. There will also be opportunities to explore science, technology and creativity in an interactive series of workshops. www.hayfestival.com
25th - June 2nd - New Life Experience at WWT Wetlands, Llanelli. Join us for our New Life Experience this May half term and, for one week only, go behind-thescenes on a special guided tour of our duckling nursery!
24th - The Little Prince at the Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea University. 6.30pm.
26th - Gnoll Park Dog Show and Family Fun Day. Gnoll Park. 11-3pm.
25th - Pop Up Skate park at the Waterfront Museum. Join Swansea's Exist team to watch the pros in action then join the coaches for a super fun session to pick up some new tips and tricks. No need to bring a board as all equipment will be available free of charge. Suitability: 7+. Suitable for all levels. Cost: Free* A refundable deposit of £5.00 will be required to secure the booking of each ticket – this will be refunded to your bank account within 5 working days of check in for the event. From 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm.
28th - Super Soapy Soap Socks & 'Have a Go' at Archery! Margam Park. Come along and learn about felt making and have a go at making felt soap socks - they look pretty, and they're great for cleaning green fingers and muddy hands. £3 per session per child, meet in the Castle (adult supervision required). Sessions start at 11am, 12.15pm, 1.45pm and 3pm (approx 1 hour). 'HAVE A GO' AT ARCHERY - with Margam Archery Club, meet by BBQ Site at the back of the Castle, 3 arrows for £1.
25th - Margam International Kite Festival at Margam Park. Bring your kite along and join in the fun! Kites of all shapes and sizes. (Bank Holiday entry fee applies for Monday 27th) MARGAM MODEL BOAT SHOW - come and see model boats of all shapes and sizes on New Pond 25th - Creepy Creatures in Oystermouth Castle. 11-4.30pm. Enjoy a live, interactive animal showcase with Geraint ‘The Snakeman’ Hopkins. Come along and find out all about snakes, spiders, lizards – and handle some if you dare!
26th - Half Term Movie at the Waterfront Museum. Sherlock Gnomes (U, 2018). 2.30pm. Free event.
29th - Buzzy Bizzy Bees & 'Have a Go' at Archery! Margam Park. Plant some bee-friendly plants in some sustainable pots to take home to keep our buzzy friends happy, make some fantastic bee crafts and take part in our buzzing bee game! 11am to 3pm. 29th - Crafty Fun at Oystermouth Castle. 11.30-3.30pm. 29th-1st June - My Face, Mini Masterpieces at the Waterfront Museum.12.30pm, 1.30pm and 2.30pm. Join artist Susan Evans to create your own self portrait mini masterpiece inspired by our Community Uncovered exhibition. Suitability: 5+. All abilities welcome.
limited spaces, pick up tickets at the entrance cabin. Meet at the BBQ Site at the rear of the Castle (adult supervision required). Sessions start at 10.30am, 12pm, 1.30pm and 3pm (approx 1 hour). 30th - Pirate Pearl and the Big Blue Monster at the Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea University. 4.30pm.
June
2nd - Steam & Pistons 4x4 Classic Bike Show at Gwili Railway. 2nd - Monthly Movie at the Waterfront Museum. Christopher Robin (PG: 2018) at 2.30pm. Free event. 8th - Pontardawe Carnival 2019. 9th - Dragon Ride at Margam Park. The UK's most prestigious Sportive, a non-competitive cycling marathon held over a mountainous course using public roads in South Wales and the Brecon Beacons. www.wiggledragonride.com 15th - Family Fun Day ay the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery. 10.30-4pm. For all ages, drop in. 15th - Young Makers at the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery. 2-4pm. Age 12-16? Young Makers is a fun, experimental workshop for those interested in pushing the boundaries of their art. The group will explore different art media including animation, sculpture, printmaking, illustration, drawing, painting and much more. Booking Essential. 22nd - The Great British Food Festival at Margam Park. The perfect recipe For a fun, foodie, family day out! 10am. 26th - 29th - The Sound Of Music at the Princess Royal Theatre. 7pm. The classic family musical that is adored the world over!
30th - Bushcraft Activities, 'Have a Go' Model Boats and More! Margam Park. BUSHCRAFT ACTIVITIES WITH 'PARK LIVES' Discover the basic Bushcraft skills - great fun for all! Free session,
Folly Farm
We’ve always been farmers, but now we’re much more than a farm. Ranked a five-star day out and recipients of a Certificate of Excellence on TripAdvisor, plus a 2019 Visit Wales Gold Award, our award-winning zoo is home to giraffes, flamingos, penguins, African lions, lemurs, meerkats, rhinos, tapirs, bongos, squirrel monkeys, bats, sloths and red pandas…plus many, many more.
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Alongside the zoo sits the Jolly Barn with all your favourite farmyard friends, including miniature pigs, ponies, giant rabbits, sheep, donkeys, goats, chickens and ferrets, plus the ever-popular ‘Cwtch Corner’ and the opportunity to milk a goat! The Jolly Barn is also the gateway to the rare breed paddocks, the piggery and land train tractor ride. The fun continues in the magical indoor vintage fairground containing 16 lovingly restored fairground favourites like the Golden Gallopers, Dodgems, Caterpillar, Chair-o-planes and the Twist plus a whole host of indoor and outdoor adventure play areas, including the legendary ‘Black Bart’s Pirate Cove’. During the Pembrokeshire school holidays the park will have all of the usual fun and games including meet and greet sessions, zoo talks and character walkabouts.
There will also be a fantastic magic show courtesy of Luke Jugglestruck. Or, on our Pirate Fun Days, it’s Black Bart’s Pirate Folly show. Both shows take place in our very own, purpose built, Follies Theatre. New for this year is our brand new sit down, table service themed restaurant called The Hungry Farmer. What child (or adult for that matter!) wouldn’t want to tuck into their meals whilst sitting in a large tractor tyre or at an animal-themed table or inside a Dutch barn? There’s also our brand new play area - Wallaby Ranch. Located in the shadow of the Pembrokeshire Wheel this themed climbing/activity area is the ideal place for little ones to let off some steam! We’ve also been busy sprucing up some of our existing exhibits. So, why not pop along to see Tuppee and Lightcap, our two-toed sloths, in the newly rebranded Tropical Trails. There really is a full day of family friendly fun waiting for you here at Folly Farm. And with around 50% of our attractions being located undercover, there is plenty to see and do whatever the weather. So go on, jump in and find out for yourself exactly what Folly Farm has to offer. It is the Visit Wales Year of Discovery after all. Whether it’s your first time to the park or you’re an annual pass holder – a fun day out is always guaranteed. Zoo, Barn, Fair, Play – pick your own adventure! For more information visit www.folly-farm.co.uk or follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FollyFarm
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Title: The Truth Pixie Written by Matt Haig and illustrated by Chris Mould. Age range: 6-8yrs Publisher: Canongate. The Truth Pixie is a quirky humorous rhyming story written by best-selling author Matt Haig and complemented by Chris Mould’s contemporary illustrations. When the talents were handed out, the Truth Pixie’s legacy was very different to the abilities bestowed on everyone else. It was her destiny to forever tell the truth for good or bad, just as her name suggests. But sadly though honesty is said to be a virtue, it can also be a curse for the Truth Pixie cannot even tell a white lie to save someone’s feelings. She is left feeling very lonely because no one wants to be friends with someone so blunt. However it is this very talent that saves her from being eaten by a horrible troll. A lovely metaphor – that the truth isn’t always palatable!! And the Truth Pixie ends up been spat out many miles from home where she does indeed finally make a friend who appreciates her, Aada. On a deeper level, the Truth Pixie highlights how tricky it can be to be honest, sincere and kind at the same time. It is an early introduction to making children aware of the value of constructive criticism though presented in an amusing way. It also indirectly highlights how grown-ups in society must also sometimes play the game which can mean fibbing to fit in with others! As we know honesty doesn’t always pay however much it is painted as a good thing. It can be a delicate balancing act. Sometimes being truthful is vital to save someone from further pain but it is how that message is delivered that is important. The old adage “the truth hurts” has never been truer!
Golden Classic!
Every so often we will be featuring a fabulous book from the past that deserves fresh attention for a new generation to discover and enjoy.
Title: Life on the Refrigerator Door (published 2007) Author: Alice Kuipers Publisher: Macmillian. This was Alice Kuipers first novel and it received fantastic critical acclaim, short listing for many awards. The themes are aimed at a young adult (YA) audience, though some older primary school children would understand and appreciate it because of its presentation style. And it is through this format that the powerful poignancy of the story is conveyed. A busy working single mother and her teenage daughter Claire leave messages for each other on the fridge door. Though the two share the same house Claire is so wrapped up in herself, developing her own life like many others of her age, that she takes her mother for granted. Never fully realizing that time is running out when her mother is diagnosed with cancer or the potential seriousness of the situation until too late. And that is the greatest tragedy of all and will resonate with many: the theme of time and benefit of hindsight. To be able to tell an interesting credible narrative, portray believable multi-faceted characters that readers can empathize with is a highly skilled craft in itself. The fact that Alice has achieved this just through the highly original idea of notes left on a family fridge is an achievement not to be underestimated. The book’s beauty lies in Claire’s mother; for it is there we can come to understand the true strength of a mother’s selfless love and instinctive protectiveness for an unwittingly selfish young daughter who is taught a heart breaking lesson. A beautiful moving story.
Unlock your child’s potential with our expertly led singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year olds.
Find out more today: stagecoach.co.uk/swansea swansea@stagecoach.co.uk 01792 204848
Creative Courage For Life Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.
Classes in Sketty, Pennard & Gowerton from 6 months - 7 years
Contact Miss Eleanor on 07456 524942 Find out more or book now at www.tinytoesballet.co.uk/Swansea
Easy Peasy Pizza Rolls INGREDIENTS: · One sheet ready rolled puff pastry · 300g Passata · 150g Grated chedder · 4 rashers of bacon, cooked & chopped (optional) · Handful fresh basil, chopped · One egg, beaten
Easy Peasy Pizza Rolls
At least one day a week I have my 3 year old nephew along with my 2 year old and 4 year old. To add to the usual level of chaos I also like to put them to work making their own dinner. Their cooking skills are getting there, but their washing up skills are lacking to say the least! These Pizza rolls are a delicious and easy dinner for little ones to make, we serve ours with a bit of broccoli or salad for a tasty tea time treat. You will need a baking tray, lined with baking paper. Preheat the oven to 180®C/ Gas Mark 4 Roll out the sheet of puff pastry and as evenly spread a nice layer of passata over the surface. Top with the chopped cooked bacon and basil before sprinkling over the grated cheddar. Roll up along the long side to form a large sausage shape and cut 2" sections along the length. Place on a baking tray and brush with a bit of beaten egg. Bake in the centre of the oven for 20 minutes or until the pastry is golden and cheese lovely and bubbly. If you enjoyed this and fancy trying a few more kid-friendly recipes head over to our website baking-with-kids.com or find us on Instagram @baking_with_kids.
highgate
day nursery
UPLANDS & MORRISTON
Half Term and Summer Playscheme £20 a day in Morriston and £25 a day in Uplands. Age 4 to 12 years 9am to 5pm including meals Additional hours available Themed weeks, forest school and creative activities! Parents can use their child’s FREE holiday childcare offer funding for 3 and 4 year olds.
Why we became a host family...
My husband and I first met Sebastian about 15 years ago. He was a hilarious and warm-hearted Ugandan man studying at Swansea University. A mutual friend introduced us as Sebastian was looking for a place to live, and we so happened to have a spare room. What followed was three months of welcoming Sebastian into our home and hearts. Our love for offering homestay had begun. We worked out recently that we have hosted more than 30 international students over the years; coming from as near as France to as far away as China. From as young as 14 to as old as 50, studying here on a school exchange, completing A Levels, or even undertaking university doctorates! Each hosting experience has varied
from the last and we have taken away some awesome memories and, in some cases, friendships where we are still in touch today. From the mundane of showing a clueless teen how to use a washing machine, to solving the world’s problems over a chicken tikka masala, we have embraced it all. Even the occasional hiccup, like nursing a student through toothache, have added to our memories! We have taken the rough with the smooth and always have the same conclusion when we reflect on being a host family. And that is that it’s been a brilliant life-enhancing experience. Our children even seem to agree; for who wouldn’t want an extra playmate around the house! My friends will probably tell you that I am always ‘harping on’ about homestay. But it’s because I genuinely love and believe in the programme. If, like us, you really enjoy meeting new and interesting people, and have a spare room, then becoming a host family is something you should definitely consider. We have friends, young and old, with and without kids, working full-time or not working right now, that have joined Swansea Homestay and we all tend to agree, that it’s a pretty cool thing to be doing, and that the
international students that come to Swansea tend to be pretty cool too! I would definitely recommend giving the hosting programme a go, even if it’s just a short-stay student to start with. You never know, you might just love it as much as we do! Tom, Lydia & family, Uplands
GET UP! GET OUTDOORS! GET MOVING! May is the National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. Although this is mainly celebrated in America there is no reason why we cannot enjoy the positive rewards of getting fit and improving our health! So Get Up, Get Outdoors and Get Moving! The season of Spring is here, the weather is becoming warmer and there are about 6 weeks until Summer officially arrives, so make use of the beautiful outdoors and exercise. There are plenty of outdoor fitness groups you can join in South Wales, giving you the opportunity to meet new people, get fit, improve your health, ward off illness and therefore prolong your life. We sleep indoors, we drive our cars, most of us work indoors, we mostly socialise indoors unless we are at a BBQ and we finish off our day by relaxing indoors! There are many reasons why you should exercise outdoors and being in the open air is the cost effective and most beneficial way we can improve our health!
SUNSHINE
*Health Fact* The Sunshine Vitamin – When we are exposed to the Sun, our bodies synthesize Vitamin D which helps the body absorb calcium, promote bone growth and also helps prevent Rickets (soft bones) in children and Osteomalacia (softening of the bones) in adults. Research shows that a lack of Vitamin D has been linked to depression, weight gain, anxiety and various cancers – breast, colon and prostrate to name a few. You can exercise outdoors for less than the price of most gym memberships and be shown not only what exercises to do but how to do them, be consistently monitored to ensure your exercise technique is correct, be given exclusive motivation and encouragement and also be trained by an experienced fitness professional.
Crossfit Training & HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) is the most effective type of exercise for you and your body as it causes muscle confusion and the body’s response is to prepare itself rather than become complacent in knowing a pattern of exercises. These types of classes focus on training the whole body not just part of it therefore helps to reduce injuries, improves all over strength and produces quicker results. Try taking part in just one type of exercise each week to start and build it up gradually if you are at the beginning of your fitness journey. If you feel you are capable of more, then challenge yourself to take part in 2-3 exercise classes per week. Warm, cold, wet, dry, snowy, sunny or windy, whatever the weather, don’t let it deter you from training – allow the weather to be an added challenge to your training. If you let exercise be at the bottom of your list you will never reach your health & fitness targets. Believe that you can exercise and reach your goals. Be honest and realistic with yourself and set out a clear training plan. This could also include family members and take place in your garden.
ADRENALINE
It has been proven that when a person trains in a friendly group environment they are more likely to stick at it! Group exercise classes create adrenaline, camaraderie, supportive friendly environments which will undoubtedly increase your commitment to participate. Your instructor should be positive, motivational and supportive.
Remember training alone is good, training with others is great! With love & Positivity,
Jennifer Barnfield Positivity and Visualisation Practitioner
AMGUEDDFA GENEDLAETHOL Y GLANNAU yn cyflwyno… NATIONAL WATERFRONT MUSEUM presents…
presents…
Am ddim Free entry
Dewch i glywed straeon y bobl hynny sydd wedi siapio datblygiad yr Amgueddfa
Discover the stories of people who have shaped the way in which the Museum has evolved
ARDDANGOSFA NEWYDD 13 Ebrill – 29 Medi 2019
NEW EXHIBITION 13 April – 29 September 2019
/waterfrontmuseum
@the_waterfront
amgueddfa.cymru | museum.wales | (029) 2057 3600
The Speech Clinic
Independent Speech and Language Therapy for children and adults across South Wales Clinics in Swansea and Cardiff Home and school visits Assessment, diagnosis, therapy and reports Speech sounds pronunciation Language delay Stammering Autistic spectrum disorder Learning difficulties Stroke rehabilitation
The Speech Clinic 56 Walter Road, Swansea SA1 5PY T: 01792 206 784 | M: 07934 432 116 E: reception@thespeechclinic.co.uk www.thespeechclinic.co.uk
JOIN THEM ON THEIR BIKES
Pick up and drop off your Santander Cycle at any of the 5 docking stations located along the sweep of Swansea Bay. Mumbles station coming soon… Pay as you ride: ONLY £11 FOR 30 MINUTES ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS £60 Find out more and register at:
santandercycles.co.uk Bikes not suitable for those aged 14 years and under
ˆ NHW AR YMUNWCH A EU BEICIAU YN YSTOD Codwch a gollyngwch eich Beic Santander yn unrhyw un o’r 5 gorsaf ddocio sydd wedi eu lleoli ar hyd. Gorsaf y Mwmbwls ar gael cyn hir… Bae Abertawe Talwch wrth i chi fynd: £1 AM 30 MUNUD TANYSGRIFIADAU BLYNYDDOL £60 Darganfyddwch ragor a chofrestrwch yn:
santandercycles.co.uk
Nid yw’r beiciau’n addas i rai sy’n 14 oed ac iau
Santander Cycles – A Great Way to GET AROUND Swansea
code into the bike’s computer, all you have to do is secure the cable lock in the holder on the basket and off you go! If you want to stop for coffee or ice cream during your trip, you can temporarily secure the bike by passing the cable lock through the fork and pressing C to park. When you return you just re-enter your 4 digit code. Where Can You Go on the Bikes? You can go anywhere you like on your Santander Cycle. The world’s your oyster! The bikes are a great way of getting about and exploring Swansea’s sights without worrying about traffic and parking! Just make sure you return your bike to one of the official docking stations.
If you haven’t taken a trip on one of Swansea’s Santander Cycles yet, you really should give them a go. Find out more and register now at www.santandercycles.co.uk/swansea. What Is Santander Cycles Swansea? Swansea University secured the Santander Cycles scheme for the city back in July last year after winning the Santander Cycles University Challenge and bringing an initial 50 bikes for everyone to use.
BASED ON THE DREAMWORKS ANIMATION MOTION PICTURE AND BOOK BY WILLIAM STEIG
Santander Cycles is a self-service, community bike hire scheme which offers a fun, affordable and convenient way to get about the city. Where Can I Pick Up a Bike? There are currently 5 docking station hubs conveniently located along Swansea’s main seafront cycle path. You can pick up a bike and drop it back to any of the hubs: • • • • • •
Swansea University's Singleton Park Campus The Civic Centre The National Waterfront Museum Fabian Way Park and Ride Swansea University's Bay Campus A sixth hub in Mumbles is due to open this month.
Can anyone ride a Santander Cycle? The bikes are aimed at those aged 14 years and upwards. They are a great way for adults and older children to be able to cycle along the seafront with their little ones.
Contact box office for tickets or book online Tickets £10.75 / £12.90 (includes ticket levy) Box office 01639 763 214 www.princessroyaltheatre.com
How Much Does it Cost? If you want to use the bikes now and again you can pay-as-you-ride for just £1 for 30 minutes up to a maximum of £10 per day. For frequent users there are annual and monthly subscriptions available which offer great value for money and give you your first 30 minutes free! How Do you Hire a Cycle? It’s really easy to hire a Santander Cycle. You just have to register once (online, via the app or by telephone) and provide your credit or debit card details. Then you’re all set to hire one of the bikes; either by phone, using an app or on the bike’s computer. When are the bikes available? The bikes are available to hire at any time of day or night and have front and rear lights. Are they easy to use? The bikes are really easy to use. Once you’ve entered your 4 digit
THIS AMATEUR PRODUCTION IS PRESENTED BY ARRANGEMENT WITH JOSEF WEINBERGER LTD. ON BEHALF OF MUSIC THEATRE INTERNATIONAL OF NEW YORK.
We are welcoming new members and children from July 2019!
Stars Musical Theatre are an adult musical theatre group based in Briton Ferry Community Hall. We rehearse every Wednesday 7 - 9:30pm for ages 16 and up. We are currently rehearsing for Shrek which shows at the Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot in July and are looking forward to the Wizard of Oz in November. contact starsmusicaltheatre@hotmail.co.uk
LIVE LEARN SWIM Learn to swim at YOUR National Pool with high quality and experienced teachers. Continuous Swimming Courses are now available all year round To book on and help your child learn an important life skill, call us on 01792 513513 or email us on enquries@walesnational poolswansea.co.uk
Don't forget to follow us on social media to get the latest updates @walesnatpool
Wales National Pool Swansea, Sketty Lane, Swansea, SA2 8QG
Holiday Arrangements Post Separation In many cases, divorce has a devastating impact on a family, especially where children are involved. One of the major challenges for separated parents can be agreeing on the arrangements for the children during the holidays and on other important occasions. This, we have seen, is a common area for conflict. Effective communication and planning ahead is crucial, particularly when considering arrangements for the children. It is important to bear in mind that generally, the holidays are there to benefit the children, rather than the parents. Unfortunately, often one or both parents lose focus and turn discussions into a purely mathematical exercise during which they try to ensure they take exactly their 50% entitlement for each of the holidays. In some circumstances, the courts do recognise the benefit in children spending alternate Christmases, Easters and sometimes birthdays, with each parent. There are occasions when the parent with care, which is often but not always the mother, is reluctant to accept this as a principle. This is because they will have spent every Christmas/birthday with their children while the family were still together, and they will perceive any change to this routine as detrimental or unfair. It is essential that the children remain in the forefront of everyone’s minds when discussions take place about the division of childcare generally and during the school holidays.
What are our top tips?
1. Plan ahead - In our experience, part of the problem is that many people do not think about this soon enough and parents allow the issue of where the children will be and who they will spend holidays with remain unresolved until the last moment. This may be because they do not wish to discuss matters, or they hope that nearer to the time they will be able to reach an agreement or because neither of them wishes to rock the boat by discussing things too early. The whole issue can easily become a logistical minefield with the children themselves at the centre. 2. Communicate - Always tell the other party in advance what your proposals are. You want to avoid a situation where you both book holidays at the same time. Ideally, you should be discussing holidays at least two months in advance. If you and your ex-partner are not able to agree matters yourselves, we have many experienced lawyers at Peter Lynn and Partners who specialise in this area of law. We also refer many clients to mediators to facilitate discussions between parents. In our experience, the more amicable discussions can remain, the more likely parents will remain focussed on what is best for the children, rather than on winning the battle they believe they have with their ex-partner surrounding holiday contact. For more information or to arrange a free initial meeting to discuss this or similar matters, call 01792 450010 or email Advice@plandp.co.uk
Gorseinon Sketty
01792 89 11 44 Address 01792 29 99 96 Web Address
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