Lr cambridge jan feb 2018

Header F R TAKE EE ME HOM E

IN THIS ISSUE

WIN a location shoot with Kiff Photography!

Issue 46 January/February 2018 familiesonline.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk Families Cambridgeshire 1

Book rental for young readers.

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Eden Dance, Cambridge

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junior cast presents

PETER PAN

senior cast presents

3rd & 4th February 2018 at 2.30pm Comberton Sports & Arts West Street, Comberton CB23 7DU

Full details on our website www.edendance.co.uk info@edendance.co.uk 01223 778655

THE NUTCRACKER in the 1940’s

3rd & 4th February 2018 at 5.30 pm Comberton Sports & Arts West Street, Comberton CB23 7DU

Full details on our website www.edendance.co.uk info@edendance.co.uk 01223 778655

Contents & Competitions

Dear Reader,

What’s in this issue?

New Year - new diary! An annual ritual I love is putting down on paper my plans and goals for the year ahead and I feel more organised simply by writing them down. Included in my goals every year is ‘Spend more quality time with the children’...no matter how much time I spend with them, it never seems enough! Once all birthdays, holidays, bank holidays, term dates and parents’ evenings are noted down I feel, on paper at least, that I can balance my work and home life and head into the New Year more organised than the year I am leaving behind. Happy New Year!

My quote of the day: “There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.”

C.S. Lewis @familiesCambMag

4 News and Views 6 Nursery Listings

facebook.com/FamiliesUKCambridgeshire

DON’T MISS A COPY! Receive Families Cambridgeshire by post for just £9.30 for 6 issues (1 year) or £18 for 12 issues (2 years). Call or email editor@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk for a subscription form.

WIN

A LOCATION SHOOT WITH KIFF PHOTOGRAPHY!

Family-run Kiff Photography are offering one lucky reader the opportunity to capture some family memories in a shoot worth £125! Kiff Photography take natural shots that capture family occasions and produce photos that can be cherished for years to come. For your chance to win, look out for the relevant post on our Facebook page this January and like it and our page @FamsCamMag by 20 January 2018.

Families Cambridgeshire is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Cambridgeshire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Cambridgeshire. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Cambridgeshire its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

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7 Pregnancy & Baby News 9 How to prepare your child for starting school 10 What’s On 13 Twilight at the Museums 15 Winter Clubs and Classes EDITOR: Lisa Exell 01945 861336 editor@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk DESIGN: Caroline Thompson-Heap info@cheekymonkeydesigns.net PUBLISHING ASSISTANT: Becky Lawrence admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk SOCIAL MEDIA: Crystal McClean 20,000 copies of Families Cambridgeshire available through schools, nurseries, hospitals, clubs and classes, selected shops and restaurants. If you would like copies for your establishment please let us know.

Families Cambridgeshire 3

News & Views

STUDENTS INVITED TO THE BIG BANG UK YOUNG SCIENTISTS & ENGINEERS FAIR Registration is now open for the largest celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) for young people in the UK, taking place at The NEC Birmingham between 14-17 March 2018.

The annual event aims to show young people the incredible wealth of opportunities available to them in STEM careers and to encourage the country’s future science and engineering talent. The Fair is an awardwinning combination of exciting theatre shows, interactive workshops and exhibits and careers information from STEM professionals.

Having grown from 6,500 visitors in its first year (2009) to over 70,000 in 2017, The Big Bang Fair is made possible through the collaborative efforts of over 200 organisations.

CARRIBOB helps grown-ups keep kids safe and happy while out and about

Mums and dads can get a helping hand with Carribob carry-strap. On trips out with bikes and scooters, when the joy of riding has faded and the kids hand their little wheels over to the grown-up to carry (often at the furthest point from home), the handy strap can be clipped to bike or scooter wheels and slung over a shoulder, leaving hands free to hold small hands and keep children safe.

Created by mum of three Jordana Fawaz, Carribob can be adjusted to fit and can be worn cross-body. It folds neatly into a shoulder pad. Available in red, blue and lime green.

A brilliant gift for any parent of young children!

RRP £14 www.carribob.com

Young people can discover the world of robotics to life-and-death mathematical skills, and even an explanation of STEM using… food! They can also check out the projects created by students from across the UK that have made it to the national finals of The Big Bang Competition, which recognises and rewards young people’s achievements in all areas of STEM. At the event, those aged 11-14 are guaranteed to be inspired by STEM subjects and consider a career in those areas. School groups are invited to visit the first three days of The Big Bang Fair, which will also be open to the public on the Saturday. (No lone adults will be admitted) FREE tickets to The Big Bang Fair are available now at www.thebigbangfair.co.uk

Wisbech Grammar School to ‘Walk all Over Cancer’ on World Cancer Day 2018

In a life-saving fundraising effort, pupils and staff at WGS are uniting in one incredible #actofunity for World Cancer Day 2018.

Walk All over Cancer was officially launched in October 2017, and the School was the first committed to supporting the North Cambridgeshire Fundraisers for Cancer Research in their new local project aimed at schools, clubs, and societies.

Sue Simmons, North Cambridgeshire Fundraising for Cancer Research UK Group said, “The concept of Walk all Over Cancer is simple; schools, clubs, and societies will be asked to get their pupils, staff and members to walk one mile for £1 in the week leading up to World Cancer Day, 4 February 2018… Monies raised will all be donated to local research activity in Cambridgeshire.”

Every day around 11 young people in the UK are diagnosed with cancer. Despite improving survival rates, cancer is the leading cause of death in children, teenagers, and young adults.

In July 2017, the School raised £2,896.20 for Cancer Research UK by holding ‘Race at your Place’, a 5km fun run. WGS encourages others to sign-up.

Discover more and order a pack at: info@northcambscruk.co.uk www.wisbechgrammar.com

‘SUCH STUFF AS DREAMS ARE MADE OF’-

CIS Juniors perform Shakespeare’s Hamlet

Late November 2017, a cast of young Thespians from Cambridge International School Primary School performed an abridged version of Hamlet at the Mumford theatre, Cambridge. The sell-out performance was part of the National Schools’ Shakespeare Festival.

Months of preparation culminated in exhilarating performances by the pupils. Every performer put heart and soul into the production with stunning results.

Principal Mrs Philipps Mills commented, “The festival was a wonderful way of introducing drama, and particularly Shakespeare, to Primary children, as I believe that instilling a love of reading is one of the most important things that we can do for a child. Together with the creativity involved in acting out a story to an audience, thinking about expression, tone of voice and the creation of atmosphere, the overall effect of the evening was one of absolute magic, creating a sublime learning experience for all involved.”

4 Families Cambridgeshire

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News & Views Boosting children’s self-esteem and life skills with Perform

TEN TOP NUTRITION TIPS FOR CHILDREN Ensuring small children eat a well-balanced diet may seem like an impossible task.

Nutritionist Charlotte Striling-Read has put together some simple tips, as part of Whitworths’ My Amazing Body campaign, to help.

1. FOCUS ON A BALANCE OF FOODS EVERYDAY Try to include foods from each of the main four food groups; starchy foods; fruits and vegetables; dairy foods and, lastly, protein and iron rich foods such as nuts, beans, meat and fish.

2. ESTABLISH A ROUTINE AROUND MEAL AND SNACK TIMES A routine helps children learn when to expect food. This helps to develop an appetite and a good awareness of hunger and fullness signals in the body.

3. AVOID TOO MANY FOODS HIGH IN SUGAR, SALT, FAT WITH FEW NUTRIENTS Crisps, sweets, cakes and biscuits are fine to have occasionally, but if they are a regular part of your child’s daily diet they can displace other more nutrient-rich foods.

4. MAKE SURE THEY ARE STAYING HYDRATED Try to always have some water with you to keep young, active children hydrated and offer water as an option alongside a meal.

5. TAKE THE PRESSURE OFF If mealtimes have become a battle ground, reduce the pressure on kids to eat all on their

plate and enjoy time spent together again.

6. ROLE MODEL One of the best ways to get your children gobbling up all the good foods is to eat them yourself.

7. DON’T FORGET ABOUT VITAMINS Children under five years are recommended to have a supplement with vitamin A, C and D. For children over five, a supplement containing 10mcg of vitamin D is recommended in the winter.

8. INCLUDE HEALTHY SNACKS AS PART OF THEIR ROUTINE Snacks are an ideal way to top-up energy and nutrient levels in-between meals. Try to focus on fruit and veggies, nuts and seeds and yogurt and cheese 9. AVOID TALKING NEGATIVELY ABOUT FOOD OR BODY IMAGE IN FRONT OF YOUNG CHILDREN The way adults talk about food, diets and body shapes can hugely impact how children feel about their own bodies. Try to encourage learning about the human body and explain how we are all different shapes and sizes.

10. MAKE FOOD FUN Christmas is a great time to enjoy and gobble plenty of veggies. At other times, indoor/ outdoor picnics or even blindfold taste tests can get children familiar with and enjoying a variety of healthy foods. www.brightlittlenuts.co.uk/my-amazingbody

All children find some things difficult. Some hate speaking out in class, some struggle making friends, and others have so much energy they find it hard to concentrate.

Perform is a unique drama school that uses drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s true potential.

“Perform is NOT a stage school” stresses Perform Producer, Karen. “It teaches life skills through fun drama games and end of term shows. The real aim of the classes is to help children develop the 4Cs: Confidence, Concentration, Coordination and Communication.

“Classes are small and have both a Producer and a Teacher. Children are offered a free trial and the Producer spends time beforehand with each parent to establish their goals. For instance, speaking more clearly or making eye contact when introduced to someone unfamiliar.”

Producers report back to parents after each class on the focus of the week and answer questions about the progress of individual children.

“Shy children often come to classes clinging to their parents. I can pretty much guarantee that within 5 or 6 classes, they will run in without waving goodbye,” reports Karen.

To book a free class in Cambridgeshire, visit www. perform.org. uk/try

Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes

DATES: Wednesday 3rd January Thursday 29th March VENUES: Cambridge – Wednesdays 4pm & 5pm

Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions 020 7255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk

TISKA KARATE IN CAMBRIDGE

The Traditional International Shotokan Karate Association has been running classes in Cambridge since 1989. Members range from beginner to 5th Dan Black Belt level and come from a variety of backgrounds.

Classes, open to children age 4 up to adult, are mixed together, creating a relaxed, family-like atmosphere.

Gradings are held regularly throughout the year, where students take an exam to achieve their next grade. For many young students this promotes self-confidence and a sense of achievement and motivation.

Additionally, students participate in courses run by Sensei Sahota and take part in an annual TISKA National Competition, giving students the opportunity to demonstrate the skills they have learnt and developed through their training.

Classes are held 17.00 every Wednesday at Parkside Federation, starting on 24th January. BEGINNERS GET FOUR WEEKS FREE! www.tiskakarate-cambridge.co.uk 07941 829187 familiesonline.co.uk

Families Cambridgeshire 5

Nursery Listings 2018

ACE NURSERY SCHOOL Cambridge (Ofsted Outstanding) ALL SAINTS INTERCHURCH PRE-SCHOOL March www.allsaints.cambs.sch.uk (Ofsted Good)

BRIGHT HORIZONS ELY Cambridgeshire Business Park www.brighthorizons.co.uk (Ofsted no rating)

CLARENCE HOUSE Cambridge.

01223 778383 (Ofsted Good)

LITTLE TED’S DAY NURSERY Haddenham. www.littletedsdaynursery.com 01353741765 (Ofsted Good)

BUNNYBROOKES DAY NURSERY Addenbrooke’s.

(Ofsted Good)

DOWNHAM MONTESSORI NURSERY www.downhamprep.co.uk 01366 388066 (Ofsted Outstanding)

PATACAKE NURSERY Cambridge (Sedley Court). www.pata-cake.co.uk 01223 411636 (Ofsted Good)

BENWICK BUTTERFLIES PRESCHOOL March. 01354 677733 (Ofsted Good)

BUTTERFLY DAY NURSERY Cambridge www.butterflydaynursery.co.uk 01223 353164 (Ofsted Good)

BLACKBERRY HOUSE DAY NURSERY Wisbech www.blackberryhousedaynursery. co.uk 01945 428747 (Ofsted Outstanding)

CAMBRIDGE DAY NURSERY Milton Road.

40 Years 01223 566323.

(Ofsted Good)

BRIGHT HORIZONS FULBOURN Capital Park www.brighthorizons.co.uk (Ofsted Good) BRIGHT HORIZONS CAMBRIDGE Science Park - Science Park. www.brighthorizons.co.uk (Ofsted Good) BRIGHT HORIZONS WOLFSON COURT Madingley Road www.brighthorizons.co.uk (Ofsted Good)

CHESTNUT NURSERY Chesterton www.chestnut-nursery.co.uk 01223 728390 (Ofsted Good) CLARENCE HOUSE BARNS Ely www.clarencehousenurseries.com 01353 667819 (Ofsted Good) CLARENCE HOUSE March.

(Ofsted no rating)

EMNETH NURSERY SCHOOL AND CHILDREN’S CENTRE www.emneth-nur.norfolk.sch.uk 01945 582401 (Ofsted Good) HARVEY ROAD DAY NURSERY Cambridge www.harveyroaddaynursery.org.uk 01223 363860 (Ofsted Good) HISTON EARLY YEARS CENTRE (Ofsted Outstanding) HOMERTON CHILDREN’S CENTRE Cambridge www.hamerton.cambs.sch.uk 01223 508766 (Ofsted Outstanding) LADYBIRDS NURSERY Wisbech www.ladybirdsnursery.com 01945 466667 (Ofsted Requires Improvement)

SCALLYWAGS DAY NURSERY Girton. www.scallywagsdaynursey.com 01223 277400 (Ofsted Good) SCALLYWAGS DAY NURSERY Westwick 01223 232400 (Ofsted Good) SNAP 4 KIDS Cambridge & Hauxton www.snap4kids.co.uk 01223 477413 (Ofsted Good) THE MALTINGS DAY NURSERY Ely www.themaltingsdaynursery.co.uk 01353 661442 (Ofsted Outstanding) WISBECH ST MARY PRE SCHOOL www.wsmpreschool.com 01945 411864 (Ofsted Good)

A diverse and enriching educational experience The Nursery and Primary School are pleased to be back in Cherry Hinton Hall this January, following its major refurbishment. We are welcoming visitors to view the redeveloped buildings on the following days.

Saturday 27th January 2018 Saturday 10th February 2018 Saturday 3rd March 2018 For further information, please contact the registrar: admissions@cischool.co.uk and 01223 778290.

INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL For children aged 3 – 16 years old 6 Families Cambridgeshire 10459-ISP Cambridge International School- Three publication adverts V4.indd 2

familiesonline.co.uk 13/12/2017 11:26

Ofsted ratings correct at time of printing. Please check each nursery prior to visiting.

Helping you find the right place for your little ones our 2018 guide to some of the nurseries local to Cambridgeshire

Baby News

Greater risk of stillbirth if go to sleep on back in third trimester Research from The Midlands and North of England Stillbirth Study (MiNESS), published November 2017, found that women who go to sleep in the ‘lying on the back’ position have a 2.3-fold increased risk of late stillbirth (after 28 weeks’ gestation) compared with women who go to sleep on their side.

Led by Professor Alexander Heazell, Clinical Director at the Tommy’s Stillbirth Research Centre at St Mary’s Hospital, Manchester, MiNESS is the largest study to examine maternal sleep and late stillbirth.

Around 1 in 225 pregnancies in the UK end in stillbirth. MiNESS estimates that if all pregnant women in the UK went to sleep on their side in the third trimester, there could be a 3.7% decrease in stillbirth, saving around 130 babies’ lives a year.

Although researchers cannot say for certain why the risk is increased, there are theories. In

the third trimester, when the woman is lying on her back, the combined weight of baby and uterus puts pressure on the main blood vessels that supply the uterus, which can restrict blood flow/ oxygen to the baby.

The Sleep On Side campaign, led

by Tommy’s, advises pregnant women to go to sleep on their side for any episode of sleep in the third trimester, including naps, going to sleep at night and returning to sleep. As the going-tosleep position is the one held longest during the night, women should not be concerned if they wake up on their back, but should simply roll back onto their side.

Action Medical Research, Curekids, Sands and Tommy’s funded the research. The Sleep On Side campaign is endorsed by NHS

Mamaway reinvents 3-in-1 jacket for busy mums

Expectant and new mothers will be well-protected from the elements with Mamaway’s new 3-in-1 down jacket. Designed to support women throughout every stage of the pregnancy and birth process, the jacket is now water resistant and comes with a removable hood, making it an ideal addition to any

England, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, the Royal College of Midwives and the Royal College of GPs. www.tommys.org/sleeponside

mother’s wardrobe. The jacket is also ideal for baby wearing as the panel at the front can be reversed, allowing more room to transport your bundle of joy in a carrier or sling.

Teresa Chu, Marketing Director at Mamaway said, “Puffer jackets are a popular choice at this time of year, so we thought it would be good to launch a coveted style that mums could wear so they can feel as

though they are remaining on trend while still being practical.”

Mamaway is committed to providing fashionable, practical options for mums, and has one of the largest collections of maternity and baby-wearing clothes on the market. www.mamaway.co.uk Look out for post on Families Cambridgeshire Magazine Facebook page in January 2018 for chance to WIN a Mamaway 3-in-1 coat.

Most babies learn best when they see, hear, feel, touch, taste and smell.

Sneak a peek, it’s all amazing!

Our multi-award winning classes will introduce you and your baby (or babies) to a world of sensory delights, where you can relax, spend quality time with each other and enjoy meeting other new parents.

To find out more:

Email Alli: cambridge@babysensory.co.uk Check

www.facebook.com/cambridgebabysensory www.babysensory.com

We’ve done the research; so you can enjoy the fun...

Recognised by women and their caregivers as simply the best pregnancy guide available, this latest (fifth) edition of Your Pregnancy Bible has been updated to take account of recent changes in antenatal and newborn care and to provide more comprehensive discussion of caesarean deliveries.

Given a fresh design, it still contains fold-out sections on each of the trimesters and the birth process; week-by-week images of the developing baby; in-depth chapters dealing with all aspects of antenatal care, labour preparation, delivery experiences and care of the newborn; comprehensive reference sections on medical treatments and procedures in both pregnancy and the postnatal period and an extensive glossary of ante- and neonatal terminology.

Written by a team of eminent specialists under the direction of a leading UK obstetrician, Your New Pregnancy Bible is filled with

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(Photo credit: Jules Selmes)

YOUR NEW PREGNANCY BIBLE

information about creating the optimum environment for a developing baby and safeguarding the health and wellbeing of the mother.

Your New Pregnancy Bible

by Dr Anne Deans, published 8 February 2018 £24.99 octopusbooks.co.uk Look out for post on Families Cambridgeshire Magazine Facebook in late January 2018 for chance to WIN a copy of this book.

Families Cambridgeshire 7

19/01/2015 17:41

Discover who you are...

Header

Open Morning for Reception to Prep 6 27 January 2018 10:00-12:30 Now taking registrations for Reception class 2018

Come and discover who we are at our Open Morning and find out how we nurture and develop young minds! We keep our class sizes small enabling us to deliver individualised pastoral care and an environment of play and learning, allowing our children to reach their full potential!

We welcome families to our School all year round and you can also book a personalised tour at your convenience.

Call our admissions team on 01945 586 750 or email admissions@wisbechgrammar.com We have dedicated bus routes throughout Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and now Lincolnshire 8 Families Cambridgeshire

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Families Education

HOW TO PREPARE YOUR CHILD FOR SCHOOL

by Mrs Keryn Neaves, Senior Deputy Head, Wisbech Grammar School (Magdalene House Prep)

It can seem a daunting task as a parent, preparing both your child and yourself for the first day of school. As teachers, we understand that you are entrusting us with your most valuable possession and we take this very seriously.

Preparing your child isn’t making sure they can read, write, add and subtract; instead spend time together singing nursery rhymes, reading and having conversations about the world around them.

Encourage your child to be independent, so that when they are at school they can put on their coat, do up their shoes and use a knife and fork independently. Though teachers will always be there to help, it makes getting ready for lessons and break times a lot easier which means more time learning and having fun!

Let your child be a part of the exciting process of starting school by choosing their lunchbox, trying on their new uniform and knowing where to look for the name label so they mostly come home with their

own clothes.

If they haven’t been for visits to the school, take a walk with them and show them their new school. At a quiet time point out the gate where you will drop them off and the playground where they will make new friends.

On their first day, make sure you are prepared the night before so there is time to stop and take a moment, take a photo At the end of the day the common question is ‘How was your day?’ but to get more of a response you might like to ask ‘What made you feel happy today?’ ‘How were you brave today?’, ‘What are you looking forward to tomorrow?’.

Always talk to the teacher if there is a problem even if you think it is small, discussing a small problem is easier than dealing with a big problem.

Remember that this is our job, it is what we are qualified to do and we enjoy being with your child, helping them learn and grow and working with you to help them discover who they are.

Stop and take a moment, take a photo and think about this exciting step into a new chapter that you are about to take

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and think about this exciting step into a new chapter that you are about to take.

Remember that the tears at the gate are often for your benefit, and, sorry to say, but 99% of the time they forget to be upset as soon as they enter the classroom. We know that this is an emotional time for you too. The easiest way for everyone is to say goodbye and tell your child that you will be back at the end of the day to pick them up then walk away as hard as that maybe.

Families Education feature sponsored by WISBECH GRAMMAR SCHOOL Families Cambridgeshire 9

Families Fun Clip’n Climb

Bounce Trampoline Park

Estate, Cambridge WHEN: January & February Climbing centre meets theme park: experience 20 challenges that twist, turn, light and excite.

East Anglia’s first such venue is suitable from 4 years. Prebooking essential.

Adult £17.50; Child £12.50 www.clipnclimbcambridge. co.uk

WHEN: January & February

WHERE? Clifton Road Industrial

W hat’s On

places to Things to do, be had go and fun to ages in for kids of all

C a m br idges h

ire

Skaters Moments with Trees-Tree Planting WHERE? Ferry Meadows Country

Park, Peterborough WHEN: 12 January: 9.30 What you plant in 2017, should still be here in 2117.... help people have moments with trees for a hundred years or more! Weekends in January and February. Booking recommended. www.neneparktrust.org.uk/ news-events 07919591040

WHERE? Mill Road, Wisbech

WHEN: January & February

From Friday Groovy Tots session (no skates) to afterschool, home education and family skating sessions, there is entertainment for everyone; on skates and off!

From £3 www.wisbechskaters.co.uk 01945 882048 Fre

e!

Big Garden Birdwatch

WHERE? Green space near you WHEN: 27-29 January

Take part in the nation’s biggest bird watch exercise. Register with the RSPB online for your pack and further details. Check last year’s results too.

FREE ww2.rspb.org.uk/get-involved/ activities/birdwatch

Orienteering For All

WHERE? Wandlebury Country

Park

WHEN: 14 January: 13.00 – 15.00

Experience the sense of fun and achievement in navigating your way around the park. No need to book – follow signs from main car park. £5 individual; £10 group www.cambridgeppf.org/events

Campfire Cooking for Kids WHERE? Ferry Meadows Country

Park, Peterborough WHEN: 27 January: 10.30 & 13.30 Learn basic bush-craft techniques to light a fire and have a go at cooking and eating simple campfire recipes. Children 7+ only; must be accompanied by adult. Booking essential. £5 Child 01733 234193 www.neneparktrust.org.uk/ news-events Fre

e!

WHERE? Cambridge, Cambourne,

Ely

WHEN: January & February

Designed to aid your child's development from birth, with sounds, smells, sights, music, dance and more; classes run throughout the year. Can be booked in blocks of 5 or 10. £42.50/five sessions www.babysensory.com/en/ ClassDetails/cambridge WHERE? The Key Theatre,

Peterborough WHEN: 25 January: 19.00 Join Ballet Theatre UK in their beautiful re-telling of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairytale ballet. This production follows the story of Gerda and her quest to find Kay, whom has been placed under an evil spell.

Adult £19 ; Child £13.50 01733 207239 www.vivacitypeterborough.com

Offering 100+ interconnected trampolines. Ideal for 3+ years, with Dodgeball Court, Slam Dunk Area, Foam Pit, Airbag Jump, Touch Walls, Gladiator Pits and Tumble Tracks!

From £4.99/hr www.bouncegb.com

Superstars

WHERE? Ramsey Heights

Countryside Centre WHEN: 13 February: 13.00 – 15.30 Step in to your space suit and zoom in to space! A fun family afternoon discovering stars, galaxies and planets. £3 www.wildlifebcn.org/events 01487 710420

Trumpington Seedy Sunday

WHERE? Trumpington Village Hall WHEN: 28 January: 13.30-16.00

Bring and swap self-saved seeds, exchange surplus bought seed, and take seeds in exchange for a small donation. If you don't have any spare seeds, don't worry, there are refreshments and lots of stalls.

Adults £2; Children FREE www.cambridgesustainablefood. org/events/

Baby Sensory

The Snow Queen

10 Families Cambridgeshire

WHERE? Peterborough

Fre

e!

Magic Beans

WHERE? School’s Garden, Cambridge Botanic Gardens WHEN: 3 February: 11.00 – 15.00 Fun, bean-themed craft session for children. Drop-in.

FREE for children.

Normal garden admission for adults www.botanic.cam.ac.uk

Family Dog Workshop Fre

e!

WHERE? Wood Green

the Animals Charity, Godmanchester WHEN: February at 10.00 Essential guide to staying safe and having fun with your dog. Learn to understand dog body language, know when a dog needs some time alone and get hands on with some dog training. Booking essential.

FREE 0300 303 9333 ext 1282 www.woodgreen.org.uk

s r e t a k S

Roller Skating Rink Mill Road, Walpole Highway PE14 7QJ Prices start at £3 www.wisbechskaters.co.uk

01945 882048

indoor entertainment and skating for all ages familiesonline.co.uk

Families Fun Wintry Wild Art WHERE? Wicken Fen, Ely

WHEN: 12 February: 10.30 – 12.30

Fre

Spy School

e!

WHERE? Audley End

TWILIGHT AT THE MUSEUMS WHERE? Museums across Cambridge WHEN: 13 February: 16.30-19.30

An after-hours event for families where museums and collections across the city open their doors for a variety of torch-lit and illuminated adventures. With drop-in activities and themed trails across 13 locations.

FREE www.museums.cam.ac.uk/whats-on/twilight-at-the-museums

Mucky Pups – Feathery February

WHERE? Wicken Fen, Ely WHEN: 7 & 8 February:

10.15 – 11.45 Seasonal fun, crafts and adventure for under 5s. Event will take place outside, so wrap up warm and wear clothes you don’t mind getting a bit dirty. Wellies advised. Booking essential. £4.75 01353 720274 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ events

Archaeology Adventurers Club

WHERE? Flag Fen, Peterborough WHEN: 12 – 16 February

For kids aged 8 – 12; a great opportunity to get involved in fun activities, make new friends and try something new. Each budding archaeologist can get hands-on in the Big Dig Tent, handle artefacts, and much more! £22 child/day www.vivacity-peterborough. com/whatson 01733 864663

Fantastick Twiddlers & Sticklets

House and Gardens WHEN: 12 – 16 February: 11.00 – 16.00 Calling all super sleuths, secret agents and intrepid investigators!

Sharpen your detective skills with hands-on training in cracking codes and solving clues.

Adult £10.90; Child £6.50 www.english-heritage.org.uk/ visit/whats-on

PEPPA PIG’S ADVENTURE

WHERE? Cambridge Corn

Exchange WHEN: 3 & 4 February Join Peppa as she gets ready to go on an exciting camping trip to the woods with George and her school friends, including Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep and Gerald Giraffe.

From £12.75 Adult; £10.75 Child www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk

WHERE? Paxton Pits Nature

Snowdrops

WHERE? Chippenham Park

Gardens WHEN: 10 February – 9 March Open at weekends, showcasing acres of naturalised snowdrops, ravishing aconites and glorious hellebores. Tearooms open.

Check website for opening date changes, since dependent on snowdrops appearing!

Adult £5; Children FREE www.chippenhamparkgardens. info/opening-dates

Sledging and IceSliding

WHERE? SnoZone, Milton Keynes WHEN: January and February

Visit the SnoZone for fantastic, snow-covered fun all year long.

From 2 years + From £14.99 www.snozoneuk.com familiesonline.co.uk

Reserve, St Neots WHEN: 12-16 February: 10.00 Pop along to take part in lots of stick-themed family fun activities, including working out how old a twig is and what kind of tree twigs come from. Plus lots more. £3.50 www.wildlifebcn.org/ paxtonpits 01480 473161

& 14.00 – 16.00 Wrap up warm and come and create some wild art at Wicken using seasonal natural materials, with crafts to take home. Meet at visitor centre. Age 3 – 10 years.

Booking essential. £5.50 08442491895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ wicken-fen-nature-reserve/ whats-on

Build a Nest Box WHERE? Trumpington Meadows

Nature Reserve WHEN: 15 February: 14.00-15.30 Go along for National Nest Box Week to help build nest boxes for the reserve, or make one for your garden (extra small fee if taking one home). Limited car parking available. Booking recommended. £3 www.wildlifebcn.org/event 01223 665742

Cambridge Premier Book Fair WHERE? Cambridge Guildhall

WHEN: 16-17 February: 12–18.00

& 10.00–17.00 Usual eclectic range of dealers and stock with specialists in equestrian books, early printing, medicine, mountaineering, miniature books, polar, Enid Blyton, first editions and children's and illustrated books. £2.00 www.cambridgebookfair.org

YANA AND THE YETI WHERE? Cambridge Junction WHEN: 25 February

A dark, funny and poignant tale of a small child’s determination to be understood and her discovery that friends can come in the most unexpected shapes and sizes. 5+.

Adult £10; Child £6 www.junction.co.uk 01223 511 511

LEADA Drama

WHERE? Queen Mary Centre,

Wisbech WHEN: January & February Creative, improvised acting to free children’s imagination, develop self-expression, confidence and to have lots of fun. ACT NOW! Call 07523 712633 or go to www.leada.biz Families Cambridgeshire 11

An Unforgettable Experience This Holiday

CAM

BRI

DGE

www.clipnclimbcambridge.co.uk Bring this voucher with you when you visit

Clip ‘n Climb to receive a free go on one of our Free Voucher for Extreme Challenges (Vertical Drop Slide or Readers of Families two Stairway to Heaven).

Terms and conditions: Only valid with a paid for climbing session. One free go per voucher.

Minimum height for both Extreme Challenges is 120 cm. Voucher valid until 31st March 2018.

ad 93 x 135mm Feb half term 2018 .indd 1

16/06/2017 10:45

TWILIGHT

…AT THE MUSEUMS

Tuesday 13 February 2018, 4.30-7.30pm

FREE!

Cambridge University Museums @CamUnivMuseums #CamTwilight museums.cam.ac.uk/twilight

A night of exploration for families in Cambridge & beyond

Families Fun

Twilight at the Museums Get out and explore Cambridge Museums and collections after hours Tuesday 13 February 2018, 4.30 – 7.30pm

Twilight at the Museums is back… back for more adventure by torchlight …back to showcase Cambridge museums and collections in a completely different way …back to help families discover somewhere new, and unearth some remarkable treasures.

Twilight at the Museums is a FREE after-hours event for families where museums and collections across the city turn down the lights and open their doors for after-hours fun. With free, drop-in activities and themed trails across the venues, there is plenty for families to enjoy.

Pack a torch and experience some ‘Neon Navigation’ at All Saints Church, meet some Arctic explorers at the Polar Museum, set out on a scientific expedition across the Whipple Museum, and try your hand at code cracking with the Museum of Technology.

Twilight What’s On programmes will be available from all participating museums and other venues from mid-January, and a downloadable version will be available from www.museums.cam.ac.uk/twilight

Neon Navigation

Orchid Adventure

Beneath the Ocean Waves

Use our UV torches to find hidden/creatures around the church; make shapes and patterns with our light boxes; or tell a story using our shadow puppets.

Drop-in www.visitchurches.org.uk

Visit the glasshouse range and hunt for orchids after dark... Find out about the different parts of the plant from their spongy roots to their upside-down flowers. Drop-in. Entrance Brookside Gate. www.botanic.cam.ac.uk

Discover the Museum’s new Whale Hall. Marvel at the massive Fin Whale skeleton, experience the sounds of ocean song, and make creatures to add to a growing coral reef. Drop-in. www. museum.zoo.cam.ac.uk

WHERE? All Saints Church

WHERE? Cambridge University Botanic Garden

WHERE? Museum of Zoology

Can you keep a secret?

Eclipse Expedition

Cambridge Museum of Technology Pop-up event at the Museum of Cambridge.

Have a go at deciphering some of the codes that people have used to keep secrets in the past and design your own devilishly difficult cypher. Pre-book (sessions at 4pm and 6pm), info@museumoftechnology.com. www.museumoftechnology.com

History of Science Join historic explorers in a trail that will take you on a scientific expedition, gathering vital equipment and travelling across distant lands to observe a rare solar eclipse! Drop-in. www.hps.cam.ac.uk/whipple

WHERE? Museum of Cambridge with the

Fabulous Fossils and where to find them...

WHERE? Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences

Search amongst the shadows to spot our new Ice Age wonders and explore the rest of the Museum under cover of darkness. Drop-in.

Queues may be likely at busy periods. www.sedgwickmuseum.org

Meet the Explorers

WHERE? The Polar Museum

Meet some of the characters from polar history such as Lady Jane Franklin or Captain Robert Falcon Scott himself as well as modern-day explorers! Drop-in, at busy periods one-in, oneout policy. www.spri.cam.ac.uk/museum

Statues in the Shadows

WHERE? Museum of Classical Archaeology

Drop in for a chance to see our statues in a whole new way... Just don’t forget your torch. www.classics.cam.ac.uk/museum

WHERE? Whipple Museum of the

Rocks, fossils, and maps WHERE? University Library

A Kalediscope of Colour WHERE? Fitzwilliam Museum

Enjoy special pigment demonstrations, musical performances, interactive play and dazzling projections and experience the collection through a range of colour. Can you touch, hear or taste colour? Visit to find out. Drop-in. Please note: accessible buggy/wheel chair access via the courtyard entrance. Buggy parking will be available on the front lawn. www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk

A-MAA-zing Technicolour Objects

WHERE? Museum of Archaeology and

Anthropology The objects at MAA are decorated with every colour of the rainbow. How many different colours can you find on our torch trail? Drop-in. www.maa.cam.ac.uk

Actions Alight!

WHERE? Kettle’s Yard

Pick up your special Twilight Trail designed by illustrator Joe Lyward and explore the exhibition Actions: the image of the world can be different. Drop-in www.kettlesyard.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Become a geological pioneers for the night and find out how we used to imagine the world beneath our feet. Discover fossils, rocks and extraordinary maps and explore the exhibition Landscapes Below. www.exhibitions.lib.cam.ac.uk Baby-changing

FURTHER AFIELD Light fantastic!

WHERE? Cambridge Science Centre

Get hands-on with the mysteries of light and colour. What will you discover with our special exhibits and mini-demos in the dark? Come along to find out. Drop-in www.cambridgesciencecentre.org

Fenland Imps and Fairies

WHERE? Farmland Museum & Denny Abbey

Discover the enchanted creatures of the local Fens. Enjoy trails and crafts themed on these magical beings. Drop-in. Wear sensible shoes and bring a torch. www.dennyfarmlandmuseum.org.uk Families Cambridgeshire 13

W! NO

AS SEEN ON

T AC

Queen Mary Centre, Queens Road, Wisbech PE13 1PJ For ages 5 -16+ years Creative Improvised Acting to free their imagination, develop self-expression, confidence and have lots of FUN! Call: 07523 712633 or go to www.leada.biz

Wednesday Drama Classes

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!

TRY RUGBYTOTS Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment.

For more details, just call or email:

0345 313 0446 meg@rugbytots.co.uk

rugbytots.co.uk

The world’s favourite rugby play programme

Winter Clubs & Classes WITH THE NIGHTS CLOSING IN AND THE TEMPERATURE DROPPING, the idea of sending your child out on to the football pitch, tennis court or athletics track is not an attractive one.

But active after school activities offer children great developmental benefits including:

Improved Academic Performance Research has found that children from disadvantaged backgrounds who participate in after-school clubs get better results at age 11 than their peers.

Enhanced Socialisation Skills Making friends with children from outside their school allows children to broaden their social experience, whilst extra-curricular activities at school give children the chance to enjoy a different type of social experience with their school friends and other children in their class.

Better Health and Fitness According to the National Association of Sport and Physical Education, kids aged 5-12 should exercise for at least 60 minutes of each day, and this figure shouldn’t be ignored just because it’s cold outside.

Stress Relief Exercise helps to relieve stress built up by homework, exams and peer pressures.

As parents, we are responsible for setting up opportunities for our children to keep active during winter months.

So here are our ideas for keeping your restless young one on the go – and the good news is you don’t have to force them (or you!) outside:

Trampoline Clubs and Parks These are popping up all over the country and classes are fun and social. The UK now has over 190 trampoline parks and most offer kids a safe environment to cut loose as well lessons and classes for children from as young as toddlers upwards try - Bounce Peterborough.

Indoor Rock Climbing This activity is also growing in popularity across the country with a centre likely to be very close to you. Even the NHS recommends it as an activity that provides unique physical and mental benefits whilst at the same time catering for all ages, fitness levels and abilities.

Try Fenrock in Upwell or Clip and Climb Cambridge.

Girl Guides and Scouting Scouting and Girl Guides are experiencing an unprecedented surge in popularity.

Why? Because they offer an antidote to the modern world with adventure being at the heart of everything they do. From as young as 6, children can get involved in learning outdoor skills and undertaking leadership qualifications,as well as enjoying camps and residential experiences. However, waiting lists can be long so act quickly! To register interest visit www.girlguiding.org.uk or www.scouts. org.uk

Ice Rinks/Snow Slopes Local snow slopes and ice rinks are great places to get kids active during the winter and offer kids the opportunity to try tobogganing, skiing or snowboarding, or get a pair of skates on. There are indoor and outdoor rinks and centres, depending on how you feel about braving the cold or damp weather. Try Sno-Zone Milton Keynes.

FRESH AIR

If you do opt for indoor class and club options for your child during winter, try to get them some regular fresh air at weekends when time and weather permit.

Consider heading to the countryside or a beach (even at the darkest time of year), where you can breathe different air and be closer to nature. You don’t have to organise a full itinerary and it doesn’t have to cost much either. Simple games like running races on a beach or climbing a tree can be exhilarating for children after a week cooped up at school, and being outside is both refreshing and invigorating for everyone and will improve everyone’s mood!

familiesonline.co.uk

Indoor Sports You can access indoor classes for most outdoors sports such as football, cricket and tennis at leisure centres or school recreation halls. Likewise for toddlers and pre-schoolers, multi-sport and ball skills classes are often run inside during winter.

How Many is Too Much?

Whilst clubs and classes are important for children, be careful how many activities you sign your child up for. Some require significant time commitment. For example, joining a swimming class can involve two or more weekly training sessions, as well as competitions. Are you and your child up for that? What else will suffer or be sacrificed? If your child’s opportunity to have unstructured time for play will go by the wayside, then this is probably not a good thing. Children these days have much more structured lives than ever before and already often have less unstructured play time than previous generations. Research indicates that unstructured play with minimal adult supervision helps children to learn important social skills, use their imagination, concentrate and be more self-directed.

The National Trust offers loads of activities at their sites across the UK including treasure hunts, nature trails, and even horse rides.

The Woodland Trust has great expanses of woodland which are ripe for families to explore and provide a great natural habitat for nature walks. Some are very ancient and provide a great historical backdrop of legend and myth. It’s also worth checking out The Wild Network brings together thousands of people and groups across the UK to share the simple goal of getting children back in touch with nature. www.nationaltrust.org.uk www.woodlandtrust.org.uk www.thewildnetwork.com

Families Cambridgeshire 15