Salad Days - Summer Issue

FREE e k to ta y awa

Summer 2021 Issue 90

Local Information for parents teachers and carers of children Saffron Walden, Bishop’s Stortford, Great Dunmow and Villages

A remarkable village school near Stansted ● A happy, stimulating school full of opportunities, challenges and excitement ● Friendly & welcoming with dedicated staff ● Focused on personal achievement ● Rich learning environment with a strong caring ethos ● Well-resourced equipment & innovative technology for teaching & learning ● West End style drama productions ● Breakfast club, after school club & many enrichment opportunities ● An exciting outdoors curriculum and full Forest schools program for all year groups

Through faith and nurture, we thrive.

‘Life in all its fullness.’ JOHN 10:10 Please call or email to arrange a visit for your child

FARNHAM

CE Primary School Farnham, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 1HR Tel: 01279 771 339 admin@farnham.essex.sch.uk

in this issue 1

T: 0790 073 5566 E: hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

Summer Days are here again!

Summertime is an incredible season for both children and parents. A time for family, fun, holiday, new experiences, travel, activities and enjoying the great outdoors. This summer will be a little different from last year because thankfully, we can now spend time with our loved ones. Children are going to be able to share play time with each other, attend clubs and events at long last.

A summer which will be filled with a sense of normality for all.

As Mummy’s we cannot wait to go back to the juggle and struggle of coming up with interesting ideas to keep them entertained during the holidays!

Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! Our little encyclopaedia called Salad Days – because they’re only young once! is packed full of children’s entertainment, amusement, events, summer camps, diary dates and even legal advice on your child’s September school

placement. Have the best Summer and please share all your photos with us on our social media platforms.

We would like to thank Natalie Hilton at Erin May Photography for the front cover of this issue.

Summer hugs (just because we are allowed again!)

Lisa & Tam

Saladdaysmag

Articles & Features

Performing Arts

British Sign Language in Schools . . .4

Dance, drama, theatre, music .29-33

Preparing your child for primary school . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Creative corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 School Appeals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Book review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 & 11

Babies and Toddlers Toddler Groups . . . . . . . . . . . .38-40 Antenatal & Postnatal . . . . . . . . .40

Summer Camp Directory . . . . .12 &13 Diary dates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 &15 Health is wealth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Soft Play Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Education Primary schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-6 Tutors and support . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Smart Photography . . . . . . . . .20 & 21 Little Monsters . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 & 23 Bury Lane Fun Barn . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Sport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24-27

Theatre for change . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 From Tots to Teens . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

“ ”

saladdays.info

Contents:

Saladdaysmag

© Lisa Cureton & Tamara Lee Smart 2021 The copyright of the contents including artwork, advertisements, logos and articles when generated by Lisa Cureton & Tamara Lee Smart t/a Salad Days remain with Lisa Cureton & Tamara Lee Smart t/a Salad Days except where specifically stated otherwise. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior written consent of the publisher. Views expressed in articles are those of the contributors and not necessarily of the publisher. The listings, content and advertising in Salad Days are for information only and must not be used for commercial purposes. Inclusion does not imply a recommendation from Salad Days.

All advertisements are accepted in good faith and on the basis that the advertised goods and services are as stated by the advertiser. ISSN 1752-3257. Data Protection Act Registration Number Z9533787. T: 0790 073 5566 E-mail: hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk. Published and edited by Lisa Cureton & Tamara Lee Smart.

Design Services: Nick Crawley. Printed by Parkes Print & Design, 41 Hitchin Street, Biggleswade, SG18 8BE

Copy Date for Autumn issue

20th August 2021 To advertise in the next issue, include activities, clubs and events in your town village or school or to contribute articles on your speciality subject contact Lisa or Tam on 0790 073 5566 or hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

Pre School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34-37

For digital copy visit

www.saladdaysmag.uk

2 education

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Primary schools n Bishop’s Stortford

St Michael Primary & Nursery T: 01279 652607 E: admin@stmichaelsjmi.herts.sch.uk W: stmichaelsjmi.herts.sch.uk

Felsted preparatory school T: 01371 82260 E: info@felsted.org W: felsted.org

All Saint C of E Primary & Nursery T: 01279 836006 E: admin@allsaints.herts.sch.uk W: allsaints.herts.sch.uk

Summercroft Primary & Nursery T: 01279 307477 E: admin@summercroft.herts.sch.uk W: summercroftherts.sch.uk

Great Dunmow Primary T: 01371 873184 E: admin@greatdunmow-pri.essex.sch.uk W: greatdunmowprimary.co.uk

Bishops Stortford College see back cover T: 01279 838575 E:general.enquiry@bishopsstortfordcollege.org W: bishopsstortfordcollege.org

The Richard Whittington Primary T: 01279 657778 E: admin@whittington.herts.sch.uk W: Whittington.herts.sch.uk

The Flitch Green Academy T: 01371 822330 E: admin@flitchgreen.net W: theflitchgreen.net

Farnham C of E Primary T: 01279 771339 E: admin@farnham.essex.sch.uk W: Farnham.essex.sch.uk

Thorley Hill Primary T: 01279 654496 E: admin@thorleyhill.herts.sch.uk W: thorleyhill.sch.uk

n Saffron Walden

Hillmead Primary T: 01279 656876 E: admin@hillmead.herts.sch.uk W: Hillmead.herts.sch.uk

Thorn Grove Primary T: 01279 653002 E: admin@thorngrove.herts.sch.uk W: thorngrove.herts.sch.uk

Howe Green House School see opposite page T: 01279 657706 E: schooloffice@howegreenhouse.essex.sch.uk W: howegreenhouseschool.co.uk

Windhill Primary T: 01279 696850 E: admin@windhill.herts.sch.uk W: windhill.herts.sch.uk

Little Hadham Primary T: 01279 771285 E: admin@littlehadhams.herts.sch.uk W: littlehadham.hert.sch.uk Manor Fields Primary T: 01279 757193 E: admin@manorfields.hert.sch.uk W: littlehadham.hert.sch.uk Northgate Primary & Nursery T: 01279 652376 E: admin@northgate.herts.sch.uk W: northgate.herts.sch.uk

n Great Dunmow

Dunmow St. Mary’s Primary T: 01371 872340 E: admin@dsmprimary.essex.sch.uk W: dsmprimary.essex.sch.uk Felsted Primary T: 01371 820215 E: admin@felsted-pri.essex.sch.uk W: felsted-pri.sch.uk

Dame Bradbury’s T: 01799 454700 E: office@stephenpurse.com W: stephenpurse.com Katherine Semar Schools T: 01799 521120 E: admin.inf@katherinesemar.net W: katherinesemar.co.uk R A Butler Infant & Junior School T: 01799 523651 E: admin@rab.academy.com W: rabutleracademy.org.uk St Marys C of E school T: 01799 523384 E: info@st-maryscofe.essex.sch.uk W: stmaryssw.org.uk St Thomas More Catholic School T: 01799 523248 E: admin@stmsw.co.uk W: stmsw.co.uk

n Stansted

Bentfield Primary T: 01279 813626 E: admin@bentfield.essex.sch.uk W: Bentfield.essex.sch.uk Magna Carta Primary T: 01279 703484 E: ofice@magnacarta.essex.sch.uk W: magnacartaacademy.org St Marys C of E primary T: 01279 812212 E: office@st-marys-stansted.essex.sch.uk W: stmarysstansted.co.uk

n Villages

Albury C of E Primary T: 01279 771253 E: admin@albury.herts.sch.uk W: albury.herts.sch.uk Ashdon County primary T: 01799 584219 E: Ashdon.essex.sch.uk W: Ashdon.essex.sch.uk Birchanger Primary & Nursery T: 01279 812362 E: admin@birchanger.essex.sch.uk W: birchanger.essex.sch.uk Chrishall Holy Trinity & St Nicholas Primary T: 01799 550300 E: admin@chrishall.essex.sch.uk W: chrishall.essex.sch.uk Clavering Primary T: 01799 550300 E: admin@clavering.essex.sch.uk W: clavering.essex.sch.uk Continued on page 4

T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

education 3 HOWE GREEN HOUSE SCHOOL Independent Co-ed Prep School for 4 to 11 years and Little Oaks Nursery School for 2 to 4 years www.howegreenhouseschool.co.uk 01279 657706

4 education

www.saladdaysmag.uk Continued from page 2

Debden C of E Primary T: 01799 540302 E: admin@debden.essex.sch.uk W: debdenprimary.co.uk Elsenham C of E Primary T: 01279 813198 E: admin@elsenham.essex.sch.uk W: elsenham.essex.sch.uk Finchingfield C of E Primary T: 01371 810423 E: admin@finchingfield.essex.sch.uk W: finchingfield.essex.sch.uk Furneux Pelham C of E Primary T: 01279 777344 E: admin@furneuxp.herts.sch.uk W: furneuxp.herts.sch.uk

British Sign Language in Schools The power of communication without making a sound can be exhilarating.

Naturally, we communicate with our hands regardless of whether we use speech in its conventional form or not.

I have taught pupils for a number of years to be open minded and explore all opportunities. An opportunity that we offer at Great Sampford Primary School is for the children to learn British Sign Language - a skill that is very easy to learn. When this art of communication is taught to the children, they feel empowered to communicate with a vast variety of people; not just those who have a hearing impairment. Quite often we begin with the basic signs such as greetings, animals, colours and

then begin to advance to more detailed actions to aid the repertoire of ‘Sign Supported English’. Children are always really receptive to this skill - they enjoy communicating with each other and to members of staff whilst learning new ways to communicate song lyrics, famous stories etc. I often receive comments from parents about how much their children enjoy teaching their siblings and other family members.

Sign language is powerful, emotive and a fantastic way to recognise and celebrate diversity and inclusivity.

Mr G. Athanasiou Head Teacher Great Sampford Primary School

Gt Chesterford Primary T: 01799 530292 E: admin@greatchesterford.essex.sch.uk W: greatchesterford.essex.sch.uk Great Easton Primary T: 01371 870219 E: admin@greateaston.essex.sch.uk W: greateastonprimary.co.uk Great Sampford Primary T: 01799 586280 E: admin@greatsampford.essex.sch.uk W: greatsampford.essex.sch.uk Henham & Ugly Primary T: 01279 850213 E: admin@henhamugly.essex.sch.uk W: henhamugly.essex.sch.uk Manuden Primary T: 01279 842626 E: admin@manuden.essex.sch.uk W: manudenprimary.co.uk

Much Hadham C of E Primary T: 01279 842626 E: admin@standrews236.herts.sch.uk W: standrews236.herts.sch.uk Newport Primary T: 01799 540055 E: admin@newport.essex.sch.uk W: Newport.essex.sch.uk Radwinter C of E Primary T: 01799 599248 E: admin@radwinter.essex.sch.uk W: radwinter.essex.sch.uk Reed First School T: 01763 848304 E: admin@reed.herts.sch.uk W: reed.herts.sch.uk Rickling C of E Primary T: 01799 543274 E: admin@rickling.essex.sch.uk W: rickling.essex.sch.uk Steeple Bumpstead Primary T: 01440 730220 E: officemanager@steeplebumpstead.essex.sch.uk W: steeplebumpstead.schooljotter2.com Takeley Christian School T: 01279 871182 E: office@takeley-christian.essex.sch.uk W: tcst.org.uk Takeley Roseacre School T: 01279 879599 E: admin@roseacres.essex.sch.uk W: roseacres.co.uk Takeley Primary T: 01279 870541 E: admin@takeley-pri.essex.sch.uk W: Takeley-pri.essex.sch.uk

T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

education 5

Be an

EX EXPLORER EXPLORE EXPLOR EXPLO EXPL EXP Few spaces available for September stmaryscambridge.co.uk/visit

YES SHE CAN at ST MARY’S

6 education

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Preparing your child for a smooth and confident transition into primary school.

Starting school is such a significant milestone in a child’s life – not just for the child, but for their parents and carers too.

Preparing your child for the transition into school can make all the difference in helping them to adjust quickly to their new routine and to settle well into school life. Read on for Furneux Pelham School’s top suggestions to aid this transition.

Make starting school a topic of conversation.

Talking with your child about starting school as soon as you have been allocated your primary school place will help your child to feel more relaxed about the change when it comes. If the school is nearby, walk past the school and perhaps even see if you can spot the children playing in the playground – this will help them to become familiar with the setting. Your child’s school will provide you with details of the first day and may even provide a video or booklet with photos of the setting and school staff. Look carefully at these together.

Be open about feelings.

When you are talking with your child about starting school, it is important to be realistic and explain that it is normal to feel a bit nervous about the first day.

You might even use an outline of a body to talk about the feelings your child might experience – butterflies and feeling a bit hot and sweaty. This way they will understand their feelings on the day. Of course, it is also important to talk about

feeling excited too or even a mixture of excitement and nerves.

Have a few school uniform trial runs.

Trying on school uniform will help your child to feel more comfortable in their new clothes when the time comes, but will also help your child to be more independent in the classroom. Practising dressing and undressing will help your child in sports lessons, and as part of this it is important to help them to recognise their name label to ensure they don’t lose their brand new clothes! Challenge them to make a nice, neat pile of clothes and to store their socks safely in their shoes.

Establish a new routine.

To make mornings smoother, practise the new routine for a few days before school starts. Ask your child to help you to prepare their breakfast and decide where you are going to keep book bags, shoes, PE kits and water bottles so that you don’t forget them in the morning. You could even ask them to help you to write a checklist you can use in the mornings to ensure that nothing gets left behind.

Practise key skills.

Although there will be lots of support in place for your child, a head start in a range of skills will help them to feel more confident when they arrive. Practising using cutlery and cutting up their own food will help with school dinners.

Knowing how to blow their own nose and wipe their own bottom will be

expected at school so give them a good start by practising together well in advance. If your child is not confidently toilet trained, be sure to let your child’s new teacher know and send them with some spare underwear in their school bag, just in case.

Talk, talk, talk.

Communication and language are a key part of the EYFS framework and talking with your child will give them such a good grounding for the year ahead.

Singing nursery rhymes together and learning stories written in verse (such as Julia Donaldson’s The Gruffalo or a Squash and a Squeeze) can help to develop speaking skills. Whilst talking is important, so too is listening. Show your child how to listen well by giving others attention, and also make sure there are times when there is only one sound in the room rather than always having some music playing or the television on.

Teach your child to recognise their own name.

Whilst your child will obviously be very familiar with the sound of their own name, give them the opportunity to see their name written in different ways.

Show them their name handwritten but also in upper and lower case fonts. This will make them so much more confident in spotting their name on clothes labels, pegs or on books such as their reading diary. You might want to teach them to write their own name, but it is also fine to

leave this until they start school as the school may teach a particular style of letter formation.

Finally, relax and enjoy the change.

It might feel like a daunting prospect and an enormous change in your child’s life, but there are so many fun and exciting times ahead. Time at school goes so fast and before you know it they are off to secondary school!

Louise Foley, Co-Headteacher at Furneux Pelham CE School.

Tel: 01279 777344 www.furneuxp.herts.sch.uk

Saturday 10 July – Tuesday 31 August 2021 The Wild World Heroes are coming to a library near you this summer!

We’re teaming up with World Wildlife Fund for a very special nature-themed challenge that will inspire you to stand up for the planet!

Our Wild World Heroes live in Wilderville, a pretty cool place, but there are lots of things that the Wild World Heroes can do to make their town even better for the people and animals that live there.

The challenge runs from Saturday 1 0July to Tuesday 2 1August in all Essex libraries and mobile libraries.

For more info - www.libraries.essex.gov.uk

education 7

T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

Tutors & support n Academic

Anna Clarke BA(Ed) Hons Qualified and Experienced Tutor Primary Literacy and Maths. SATs preparation and confidence-building. GCSE Maths and English; T: 01799 526134 Glenis Toms Qualified and experienced teacher.

Maths and English; 7-11 years T: 01799 540833 Kumon Bishop’s Stortford - See right Contact: Nicola Norbury T: 01920 461457; W: kumon.co.uk Sue Herd BEd (Hons) Experienced pre school tutor English & Maths (give your child a head start before school); T: 01799 510995 Tutor Doctor East Herts 1:1 In-Home Tuition Service. All Subjects and Levels; Contact: Viv Durham, Director T: 07450 825188 E: vdurham@tutordoctor.co.uk W: tutordoctor.co.uk/Stansted

n Languages

Kidslingo Have fun learning Spanish through songs, games, drama and stories from 0-11 years. Classes also available for nurseries, primary schools & child minders; T: 07926 007797 E: jessicalp@kidslingo.co.uk W: kidslingo.co.uk

Luciana Ferreira Day Spanish all levels E: lucianafday@gmail.com T: 07930 525079

n Family support

Aspects Family Support Ann Creitzman All Saints CE Primary School Parsonage Lane Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 5BE T: 01279 758134 W: www.aspects.org.uk Registered Charity 1164201

n Mindfulness and Relaxation Nikki Phillips, ITEC IIHHT DIP SMT Youth Mindfulness, Teaching emotional well-being skills for life to all.

Nature retreats, children's, young adults and family courses run all year.

T: 07966 579345 E: info@nikkiphiliips.co.uk W: nikkiphillips.co.uk Mini Mindfulness programmes teaching young people skills for life.

Relaxing in nature, and being in the present moment can improve sensory awareness. Our sessions raise self esteem, confidence and concentration, whilst reducing anxiety. For summer bookings at Noakes Grove, Nature Reserve .

Contact -Nikki Phillips M: 0796 579345

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes are tailored to your child’s individual needs, nurturing their independence and enthusiasm for learning.

Contact your local Instructor for a free assessment.

Bishop’s Stortford Study Centre Nicola Norbury 07752444215 01920461457

Develop your child’s independence

kumon.co.uk Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

STORTFORD KIDSOUT For quality Breakfast, After School & Holiday Club Care Email: lindavies@stortfordkidsout.co.uk

www.stortfordkidsout.co.uk

HOLIDAY CLUB Available to all children

SUMMERCROFT Exclusive to Summercroft

BIRCHANGER Exclusive to Birchanger

MAGNA CARTA Exclusive to Magna Carta

8 education

r e n r Co e v i t Crea

Picture by Ruby, age 6, St. Mary’s Primary School, Saffron Walden

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Laptops for Schools scheme open for donations

Do you have an old or unused laptop you could donate to help a child or young person to access learning? Our Closing the Digital Divide scheme distributes reconditioned laptops to schools and colleges for pupils who don’t have access to a device at home.

To donate, simply drop off your laptop at your local library. The make or condition doesn’t matter. All laptops are thoroughly cleaned inside and out, and all data and programmes are removed securely (without accessing the data). Any that can’t be re-used will be sold for parts to fund new devices.

Since December, 5,000 devices have been given to pupils who would have been cut off from online learning during lockdown. Laptops are still needed for pupils who need to self-isolate, for homework or home schooling and for pupils who cannot attend school for health reasons.

Please send your art work to hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk for a chance of featuring in Salad Days!

For information about how businesses can get involved, email TSLaptop.Donations@essex.gov.uk

education 9

T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk Polly Kerr, Senior Associate and Education Law specialist at Tees.

School Appeals: What you need to know when you challenge a decision In the wake of this year’s National Offer Day on 16 April, many parents may feel disappointed that their child didn’t get into their chosen school for term starting in September 2021. If you weren’t offered your first-choice school, you may have appealed for a place and are patiently waiting for a decision. In the meantime, it’s important to have a backup plan. Here are some tips on what you can do: Accept the school place offered – However tempting it is to wait for the appeal’s decision, you should accept the school place offered in any event. Accepting an offer will not affect your appeal. If you reject the offer, the Local Authority is under no legal obligation to offer you a place at another school and you run the risk of having no place at all when school starts in September.

Put your child’s name on the waiting list of your first-choice school – School placements often shift around before September so it is worth adopting the ‘why not’ approach and put your child’s name on the waiting list. Circumstances can change quickly e.g. another family may move away

from the area or other parents may be making appeals to get into a different school.

Visit the school you have been offered – Go and see for yourself what the school is like. Sometimes a bad local reputation can linger even after a school has improved under new leadership. If you can, speak to other parents to find out more about what the school has to offer what their child’s experience has been like.

Speak to a specialist Education Lawyer for advice – The appeals process can be a stressful and daunting one. If you want a specialist lawyer to take a closer look at your child’s situation, we can talk with you and set out some options.

I am unhappy with the outcome of the appeal. What can I do?

The Appeals Panels’ decisions are final and binding on both the Local Authority and parents. The only further rights open to you if your appeal wasn’t successful is to make a complaint to the Local Government Ombudsman. You will have to demonstrate there has been a ‘maladministration’ in the way your appeal was handled and seek judicial review of the decision through the Courts. You should seek specialist legal advice before embarking on this course.

In-year admissions appeals With social distancing measurements still in place, you may not have a chance to attend

Expect more Expert legal services and independent financial advice Call Cambridge – 01223 311141 Bishop’s Stortford – 01279 755200 Saffron Walden – 01799 527299 the school in person to meet with staff faceto-face. So, what can you do if you are still unhappy with a school once your child has started there?

First, you should address your concerns with your child’s teachers or the headteacher, if appropriate. They may be able to allay your worries and work with you so that your child goes to a school they like and feel happy at for the year ahead.

If you still feel that your child needs to be moved to a different school, this is possible as an ‘in-year admission’. However, do first check with the school you wish to move your child to if they handle the transfers internally, or whether the Local Authority will need to be involved.

If you are set on transferring schools, you can apply at any point during the academic

year. However, you should allow ample time and start the process six weeks before you want the move to take place. If you want your child to finish the academic year at their current school before moving, you can apply from June and through the summer holidays.

Talk to us if you want advice on your options for challenging your child’s school over any aspect of their educational provision. We can also advise on in-year admissions, including appealing against a rejected application.

10 leisure and features

Worries and Wobblers As we all know, many young children have witnessed a lot of worry over the last few months (now, hopefully, all behind us).

Some of this worry will inevitably have rubbed off on them, so I thought I would review some picture books which not only deal with worries, wobblers, and other emotional challenges which children may be struggling with as we all emerge from the pandemic, but also show how they can help others who they may see struggling.

These worries can completely overwhelm a child, leading to an inexplicable tantrum/meltdown/wobbler – you’ll have your own all-too-familiar word for it. In Barbara Throws a Wobbler by Nadia Shireen, the story explores Barbara’s ‘very bad mood’ (which she denies), which has developed out of a catalogue of small unrelated incidents – no matching socks, an oddcoloured pea on the plate at lunchtime, and so on. Barbara’s Wobbler looms over her head all day, despite the attempts of her friends to coax her out of it. Eventually the Wobbler cheerfully tells Barbara that she is in charge and can ‘squish [it] down’.

She does and good humour is restored.

This sense of empowerment is so important for children after the last 12 months of restrictions.

I particularly like the last page of this book,

which is headed ‘Bad Moods (A Very Useful Guide)’ in which each kind of bad mood is comically illustrated and described – from ‘The Sulk’ to ‘The Huff’ and ‘The Seethe’.

This page alone is enough to raise a smile and squish a Wobbler.

Not only can a string of tiny incidents be drawn together in a child’s mind into a seemingly irrational but unsurmountable problem, but an anxiety about one thing can be expressed as a worry about something quite different. Jeremy Worried about the Wind by Pamela Butchart and Kate Hindley is an opportunity to explore the fears of a little boy worried about ‘odd socks, shoe-eating worms, too-crunchy crackers, runaway dinosaurs, burnt toast, evil squirrels’ and other bizarre concerns. He meets Maggie, who doesn’t seem to have a care in the world – her favourite phrase seems to be ‘What’s the worst that can happen?’ (about which Jeremy is very concerned). While trying to keep Maggie safe, Jeremy is accidentally swept into an extraordinary adventure in which he discovers that the imagined worse can happen, but it can be OK. This could be just the release a child needs, giving them the courage to voice and face their own fears about risk, and to ‘live a little’.

www.saladdaysmag.uk In similar vein is The Misadventures of Frederick by Ben Manley and Emma Chichester Clark. Once again, an anxious little boy is encouraged out of his worries (or, in fact, his mother’s projected worries) by a more wild-atheart best friend, Emily.

She sends little notes inviting him to join her on various adventures which he always politely and formally declines. For example, when invited to go and climb trees, he replies, ‘My Dearest Emily, The finches flutter in the sycamores, startling the drowsy dormouse.

It is with bitter regret that I inform you that I may not come out to climb trees today on account that I might break both of my collar bones. Sorrowfully yours. Frederick’. Emily persists and eventually Frederick joins her.

The disaster which he expected does in fact happen, but he realises that it wasn’t so bad after all. Some risks are worth taking and us mothers have to learn that we can worry too much.

In all three of these books, it is the friendships which are so important in helping the worrier to escape from the shackles of their fears: it’s the friends who won’t give up their encouragement. This determination to help others with their distress or challenges can be very empowering for children, perhaps helping them to overcome their own problems.

I really like Kind: a Book about Kindness

with a foreword by Axel Sheffler and illustrations by ’38 kind illustrators’.

The book lists and depicts ‘lots of good ways to be kind’ from listening to people when they’re sad, or offering to hold the hand of someone who is frightened, to helping to carry a bag or helping a new person (e.g. at school) to feel at home by asking about their favourite game. The book emphasizes that ‘everyone can be kind even if they ‘are really small or a bit shy’. Children will recognise themselves on both side of all these examples which will help them to discover what can make things feel better.

A particularly moving example of what happens when people aren’t this observant or sensitive to the needs of other is The Invisible by Tom Percival. Isabel and her family are forced, through poverty, to move to a bleak part of town where they know no-one. Isabel gradually feels as if she is becoming invisible, ‘drifting silently down the streets, as pale and thin as the wind’. As she does, so the illustrations lose their colour. But then Isabel starts to notice other invisible

T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk people, who are each trying to make a difference by doing kind things – the old lady planting flowers in empty paint cans, the refugee boy mending bikes, and others. With each of their acts of kindness or community spirit comes a splash of bright colour. Isabel decides to help and gradually the whole community brightens as they come together to ‘make a difference’ and make everyone feel that they belong.

For a wonderful catalogue of embodied emotions of all sorts to help children’s emotional literacy, I love An Emotional Menagerie: Feelings from A to Z. As it says in the blurb, ‘children experience all sorts of emotions, sometimes going through several very different ones before breakfast. Yet they can struggle to put these feelings into words. An inability to understand and communicate their moods can lead to bad behaviour, deep frustration and a whole host of difficulties further down the line’. In an importantly nonconfrontational way, the 26 rhyming poems in this book, each linked to the imagined characteristics of an animal, could help children relate to their own feelings.

Boredom is a jellyfish, for example: ‘If Boredom was an animal / It would have jellied skin, / Limp tentacles, a boneless head, / And a deadening sting.’

Younger children may be satisfied simply to make the link between the emotion and the animal and so just the first verse of

each poem may be enough (as in the example above). Older children will enjoy the more challenging vocabulary and wise and thoughtful exploration of each emotion in the five or six verses which follow. The book could open great discussions for children frustrated by not yet being able to articulate what they are feeling.

How to break the bad mood or dissolve the worry? These books show that friends can help; a sense of empowerment or ownership can help; being able to voice the feelings or relate them to something physical can help; or simply seeing the feeling as a funny cartoon character can help. A stress-buster for me sits on my desk all the time. It is The Little Book of Garden Bird Songs created by Andrea Pinnington and Caz Buckingham. It is one of those batteryoperated, press-the-button board books with recordings of garden bird songs. While each page gives excellent nature notes about each of the birds and is a super learning tool, I find that simply pressing the button to listen to the sound of the blackcap is guaranteed to lighten my emotional load. I thoroughly recommend it!

All these books can be found at Harts’ Books in Saffron Walden (www.hartsbooks.co.uk), whose shop doors are now wide open again, welcoming you in to have the pleasure of browsing their shelves for yourselves.

Jo Burch

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Summer Camp Directory Are you looking for a summer programme that offers fun and interactive activities for your children this summer? Summer camps can help build confidence and help children learn a new skill and make new friends of different age groups. We have put together a list below of local providers offering exciting activities this summer.

1st Saffron Walden Boy’s Brigade.

This one is for the older kids aged 11- 18 years old, who enjoy camping.

The Boys Brigade will be camping at Whitecliff Bay on the Isle of White this year and enjoying a numerous outdoor fun activities from 21st -28th August.

For more info contact T: 01799 523905 E:1stsaffronwalden@boys-brigade.org.uk W: www.boys-brigade.org/uk

Barracudas activity camp is opening a new holiday camp in Bishops Stortford at Hockerill Anglo-European College.

These holiday camps are OFSTED registered and offer many activities daily including archery, fencing, drama and more. This camp will be open for children aged 4 - 14 years. The camp is £191 for a full week with a saving of £48.00 starting 26th July each week until 27th August from 8:30am-5:30pm.

For more contact – T: 01480 467567 W: www.barracudas.co.uk

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T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

Stage Coach are running performing arts workshops for ages 5-16 years old. The workshops are running from 10am-4pm each day on 26th – 30th July and 16th- 20th August. Children will be working on songs, dances and drama scenes each day to work on a performance for family and friends at the end of the week. This summer camp cost £175.00 and is held at Chesterford Community Centre.

For more info on how to book – T:01799 588246 E: saffronwalden@stagecoach.co.uk W: www.stagecoach.co.uk/saffronwalden Tempos Performing Arts Magic of the Musicals Summer workshops is taking place 23rd June- 27th August at Saffron Walden Town Hall. This is a five day workshops learning sections of well-known musical and films, culminating in a performance for friends and family. There are two different workshops to choose from, Mini Workshop for ages 3 - 6 years and main workshops for ages 7+.

For more info contact – T: 07956 211909 E: info@temposperformingarts.co.uk W: www.temposperformingarts.co.uk

Sting Performing Arts is running POP…BOP…RECORD a vocal summer camp for those who enjoy singing and dancing to the latest music. The camp will involve professional vocal recording and performing the album to family and friend at the end of the week. Sting will be providing these workshops at South Mill Arts centre in Bishop Stortford 2nd-6th August in Saffron Walden on 26th -30th July from 10am-3pm at £130 and in Thaxted 2nd-6th August 10am -2pm at £120 for ages 5 -16 years. All students take home their own CD recorded album.

For more info – T: 07903 192094 E: hello@stingperformingarts.com W: www.stingperformingarts.com

Scott Forbes fitness is delivering all kinds of sports, baking lessons, survival skills in bush craft, den building, treasure magnet fishing along with the very popular Nerf Wars and swimming this summer. There are different slots to choose from and the option to book a full day, including breakfast. Camp begins at 8:30am and the standard camp finishes at 3:30pm or a full day finishes at 5:30pm.

Summer Camp begin 31st July andrun till 27th August at Felsted Primary in Dunmow.

Prices range from £35 -£45 per day.

To find out more – T: 07812 020417 E: scott26forbes@gmail.com W: www.scottforbesfitness.co.uk

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Diary Dates June 1

International Children's Day The World Conference for the Wellbeing of Children in Geneva, Switzerland, proclaimed June 1 to be International Children’s Day in 1925.It is usually marked with speeches on children’s rights and wellbeing, and other events involving or dedicated to children. A similar event, Universal Children’s Day, falls on 20 November. It was established by the United Nations in 1954 and aims to promote the welfare of children around the world.

Pride Month Every year, during the month of June, the LGBT community celebrates in several different ways. Across the globe, various events are held during this special month as a way of

www.saladdaysmag.uk 15 National Bug Busting Day 2021 Have you checked you little one for headlice lately?

recognising the influence LGBT people have had around the world. Kids, especially younger children, may ask difficult questions about being gay, and it can be hard to find the right words. If you need help, here are some great books that help explain homosexuality and same-sex marriage to children.

6 Butterfly Education and Awareness Day (BEAD) The Association for Butterflies is a non-profit organization dedicated to the welfare of butterflies through conservation, research, education, and support to professional butterfly farmers. You can grow your own butterflies, it’s a fun thing that the whole family can do together and you’re helping the planet at the same time! Buy your Insect Lore Butterfly Garden at Amazon 7-13 Child Safety Week 2021 Child Safety Week is run by Child Accident Prevention Trust to raise awareness of the risks of child accidents and how they can be

20 Father’s Day Father's Day is a celebration honouring fathers and celebrating fatherhood!

Fete de la Musique For more information: https://www.facebook.com/ SaffronWaldenMusicDay/

July

prevented. Events are held by a range of different organisations and individuals, including children’s centres, childminders, fire and rescue teams, hospitals, schools and many more.

It’s Picnic Month Enjoy a picnic outside with your family this month … fingers crossed the weather stays nice!

3 Fancy sharing a cuppa with Mary Poppins?

The Shhh Experience are hosting a cabaret for children in the style of a tea party from 4pm. Booking available at www.hyperfusion.co.uk 10 Don’t Step on a Bee Day The 10th of July unites the nation for National Don’t Step on a Bee Day! This year they your help to protect our precious bees. The recent press surrounding the Bee Crisis‚ has been hard to ignore. Not only do our bees help provide the honey, propolis and

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T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk would love it if you could share the message with your audience on Facebook or Twitter and tag @BeeGood_UK or use #DontStepOnABeeDay to help raise awareness!

beeswax contained within your favourite Bee Good products, they also help to keep us all fed and watered! Without the tireless work of our little buzzing friends, over a third of everything we eat would disappear from our tables. What can you do?

This Don’t Step on a Bee Day, we urge you to help spread the message! We

19 Global hug your kid’s day We all know how wonderful a good cuddle with your little one feels but it’s also a known fact that it is good for your health. Cuddling can lower blood pressure and your heart rate. Release a Feel-Good Hormone Oxytocin is a hormone that does everything from making you feel good to helping you feel connected to others.

End of July - Schools out for summer!!!

August 1

Friendship Day A best friend is a friend that you consider closest to you. It is a person

that you can always rely on, someone genuine, trustworthy and who accepts you for who you are ...

1-6 World Breastfeeding week

12,13, 14 Audley End Live Concerts Heritage live is hosting live concerts at Audley End House & Gardens including Boy George, Van Morrison and James blunt. Go to their website to book tickets.

16 National Tell a Joke Day With a good laugh, children are less stressed, and they feel much better. Boost immunity: Research indicates that when children laugh, their laughter causes a natural white blood cell that attacks cancer cells and other diseases. These natural killer cells when boosted increase the patient’s resistance by increasing immunity.

30 Bank Holiday

16 leisure and features Health is wealth Make better choices for you and your family.

Now more than ever, people are valuing their health and starting to think about the foods they are putting into their body and the lifestyle that they lead. What we eat (or don’t eat) has a major impact on how we think, feel and act. Our brain requires a constant supply of fuel, which comes from the food that we eat. Kids can’t learn if they eat a lowquality, high processed food diet.

Knowing what foods, we should and shouldn’t be eating can be really confusing, especially when it feels like the advice changes on a regular basis.

As a functional medicine practitioner and nutritionist, I educate and encourage my clients to take responsibility for their own health. This involves identifying the underlying cause of symptoms, evaluating the root cause of health problems, and establishing and maintaining optimal health by supporting the whole body to promote wellness.

Research over decades clearly shows that nutrition and lifestyle are important factors in health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and many other chronic health conditions. However, the

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modern “western diet” lacks essential vitamins and minerals.

Improving your diet and lifestyle may help to: Improve your mood Balance hormones Increase energy Help you think more clearly Improve your immune system Get your 7 a day – a colourful plate Vegetables contain essential vitamins, minerals and fibre that our body needs to keep us physically and mentally healthy.

Eating a variety of different vegetables every day gives us a good range of nutrients. As a rule, one portion is about a handful. Soups and smoothies are a great way to incorporate these vegetables into our everyday life.

Smoothie idea: 1 handful spinach 1 celery stick 1 fresh beetroot 1 small apple ½ avocado 1 cup of almond milk ½ cup water Reduce sugar consumption!

Sweets, chocolate, biscuits, sugary drinks and alcohol make our blood sugar rise and fall rapidly. This impacts our mood, energy and can give us cravings for stimulants. Natural sugars found in fresh fruit, new potatoes, beetroot and sweet potatoes contain fibre which is a slowrelease energy food. Try some sugar free cake and biscuit recipes on my website www.naturopathichealth.co.uk Eating a heathy breakfast gets the day off to a

our thoughts and feelings. A little protein with every meal is essential for a healthy body. Protein is lean meat, fish, eggs, legumes (peas, beans and lentils) nuts and seeds.

good start. Look out for how much sugar cereals contain.

Get enough sun exposure.

Covid -19 has focused a light on the importance of Vitamin D levels for our immune system. However, vitamin D is essential for many different functions in our body. Sitting in the sun for just 20 minutes a day can keep our vitamin D at a healthy level. Avoiding the mid-day sun is advisable.

Stay hydrated Do you drink enough fluid? Lack of fluids may make it difficult for us to concentrate or think clearly. Dehydration is also one of the biggest causes of constipation. I recommend between 8 glasses of fluid a day. Water is cheap but also a healthy option. Herbal teas and smoothies also count towards our daily intake.

Get enough protein Protein contains amino acids, which are essential for building, maintaining and repairing every cell in every part of our body. Amino acids make up the chemicals our brain needs to regulate

Caffeine management Caffeine is a stimulant and gives us a quick burst of energy. It also increases our stress hormone cortisol and can cause anxiety, depression and insomnia.

Caffeine is found in tea, coffee, chocolate, many fizzy drinks and energy drinks but also in green tea. Many will feel noticeably better when they drink less caffeine or avoid it altogether. It is advisable to withdraw from caffeine gradually. Stopping suddenly can give you withdrawal symptoms.

Improve your gut health An unhealthy and out of balance gut may cause a wide range of health conditions.

Part of the gut health picture involves how long it takes food to get from one end to the other. Ideally, transit time should be around 12- 48 hours. Any quicker than this, we won’t absorb optimal amounts of nutrients from the food we are eating.

Any slower and we can see many gut health issues. At the Naturopathic Health Clinic, I work with every client on an individual basis, based on symptoms and overall health.

Joanne D’Urso mNNA, mANP. Naturopathic Health Clinic, 4 Gibson House, Market Hill, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB10 1HQ www.naturopathichealth.co.uk Tel: 01799 210010

T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

The Summer Festival returns to the Audley End Miniature Railway for another year, running every day from the 17th July to 5th September!

Jam-packed with activities and entertainment for the whole family, this spectacular summer-long festival offers everything to ensure a day full of excitement and wonder for children and adults alike.

In addition to the enchanting Train Ride through the Audley End Estate on our beautiful miniature steam railway, the summer months see the resident Fairy and Elves welcoming visitors to their charming woodland homes.

Wander in awe through the magical Fairy and Elf Walk and look out for the delightful Fairy and Elf homes hiding amongst the trees and tick them off in your Activity Booklet!

The fun doesn’t stop there, we will also have interactive shows at our Stage Area

where our magical Dragon and Unicorn will feature too. The shows will change each month so you can come back and see something different in July, August and September!

You will also have time to explore our Adventure Play Area, brand new Nature Corner and Games Area. You might even treat yourself to some delicious Dragon and Unicorn Ice Cream from our Ice Cream Hut too!

Included in the ticket price: Train Ride, Fairy and Elf Walk, Nature Corner, Games Area, interactive Story Telling, Adventure Play Area Booking is required, tickets must be booked in advance before you visit.

Tickets on sale now!

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Development Through Play: The Role of Indoor Soft Play Areas From an early age, children have a desire to engage in play. This can be physical play, play with rules, play with objects, or even pretend play. This range of play types can have differing influences on aspects of a child’s development, including the development of motor skills, spatial skills, and social and emotional skills, to name a few.

Due to the importance of play, it becomes equally important that children have an environment providing both the freedom and safety to explore all types of play. This article will focus on how soft play areas are well-positioned to encourage different types of play and as such positively stimulate a child’s development. As different areas of development are not limited to one particular type of play, each play type is presented with the skills they are most likely to promote development in.

Physical play A huge advantage of indoor soft play areas is that they are never disrupted by bad weather, making them a great compliment to outdoor play. In a society where screen time is increasing, having this outlet for a child to burn off their energy has never seemed more

important. Encouraging engagement in physical activity has the potential to benefit children on a physical (i.e. reduced risk of obesity), psychological (i.e. improved mental health), and social (i.e. improved peer relationships) level.

Attendance to a soft play area has the potential to support children to participate in sufficient levels of physical activity, with many children achieving the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity in a single visit. This is helped by the number of different play options available at a soft play area, as each additional play option is associated with an increase in time spent being physically active.

Play with rules Through various obstacles and levels, the layout and design of an indoor soft play area is an excellent environment for children to either create their own, or play well-known games with rules, such as hide and seek, or chasing games like freeze tag. The social nature and freedom of soft play provides the opportunity for children to establish and agree the game’s rules amongst themselves, without parental involvement. This not only helps to

www.saladdaysmag.uk develop their understanding of rules, but also teaches them a range of social skills, including taking turns, sharing, and understanding other children’s perspectives.

Play with objects From a ball pit to building blocks, soft play areas offer numerous opportunities for children to engage in play with objects. Playing with objects like building blocks helps to develop spatial skills, as children gain an early understanding of the importance of planning, be this striving to build the tallest block tower, or even a bridge.

Play with objects, rules and physical play alike, all have a pivotal role in developing gross motor skills. The activities that children engage in through these types of play (e.g. running, jumping, or throwing), mean that they are developing strength in various muscle groups. This is important because gross motor skills are crucial for every day functioning.

Pretend play Soft play areas are renowned for providing a sensory-rich environment, appealing to touch (through various textured surfaces and objects), hearing (through interactive musical instruments), and most prominently, sight (through bright colours, fun designs and shapes). The possibilities provided by the obstacles and objects within this environment enable children to run wild with their imagination and create endless fantasy play scenarios.

Take for example, obstacles like a ball

swing, which could allow children to pretend they are swinging across a cavern in a recreation of their favourite cartoon on TV. Creating these exciting scenarios have an influential role on emotional development. The safety of the environment encourages children to be more adventurous and explore play options that may be too dangerous to attempt outside in their neighbourhood.

This allowance to manipulate the environment based on their imagination, stimulates the development of creativity.

Add to this that soft play areas are a great place to meet friends or make new ones, then children are also able to share in each other’s imaginative play, promoting social and communication skills.

Conclusion Soft play areas provide an environment that is safe enough for parents to feel comfortable, yet exciting enough to engage children. The large areas of free play and wide variety of play options typical of a soft play area, mean that rain or shine, children have the opportunity to engage in numerous types of unrestricted play. Overall, soft play alongside outdoor play can provide a broad range of opportunities for children to reach their full developmental potential.

Ben Rimmer, Michael D J Seymour and Karen M. Stockton, Plumanicca Psychology, UK. karenstockton@plumanicca.co.uk

T: 0790 073 5566 E: hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

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For your chance to

win a £50 voucher towards a Little Monster Party Please share a picture of this advert on Instagram

What is Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB)?

Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) is a group of genetic skin conditions that cause the skin to blister and tear at the slightest touch. There are many different types of EB, ranging from the mildest, in which only the big toes are affected, to the most severe, which can have a devastating effect on any part of the body, causing lifelong disability and pain. You cannot catch EB, and currently there is no cure. Children and adults are treated with an array of dressings/creams and appropriate pain relief. Children who present with EB may need to be cared for in different ways – parents are always the experts in their child’s condition, along with their specialist centres. You can find out more at https://www.debra.org.uk.

Sophie Randall - EB Clinical Nurse Specialist Great Ormond Street Hospital

Tag @saladdaysmag @littlemonstersoftplay and a friend of yours on instagram Follow @saladdaysmag on Instagram

! ! ! k c u l d o o G

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Smart Photography I am an alternative wedding and family photographer with a dirty little secret: I take a majority of photos of my own kids using my smartphone.

I thought I would share some of my top tips, so that you can also embrace the camera on your smartphone. The cameras on today’s smartphones should not be underestimated and can provide you with endless printable photographs. They are extremely convenient and now more powerful than standard digital cameras, even from only 10 years ago. Whilst I LOVE my {big girls} cameras, I’m not about to trade in my professional DSLR just yet, I always say, the best camera is the one you have on you.

Friends often ask what camera I use as photographing kids can sometimes be a challenge, and they are often amazed to find out that it was my iPhone that was used to capture the image. Like the rest of you guys, I’m a busy mum that juggles work and family, so to

have something so convenient is great when I see an awesome photo opportunity. I hate missing the moment because of a lack of equipment…. or knowing how to get the best out of it.

www.saladdaysmag.uk Look For The Light I’m not talking artificial lights, or photographers fancy lighting, flashes etc. Look for areas of natural light.

Generally, outside gives you the best light and if it’s a cloudy day…. this is your friend, but this is not always possible, so if it’s the day time and you’re inside, turn off any lighting and head to the nearest window. This will give you a beautiful natural look. There is also a specific time of day that photographers get really woozy over, it’s called ‘Golden Hour’ and this is the hour just before the sun sets and the first hour after the sun rises, and you get that beautiful warmer light and dreamy long shadows.

Don’t be afraid to adjust the exposure control on your screen, sometimes it will suit an image if you adjust what the camera thinks is the correct exposure.

You can create some great silhouette images by adjusting these settings.

Sometimes the subject will be too dark because of the amount of light behind, so you’ll have to increase the exposure to compensate, or turn on the flash if you don’t want to lose the colour in the sky.

This is what photographers refer to as fill in flash.

Composition I know this sounds scary…. but it really isn’t – trust me? Us photographers like to use a technique called the ‘Rule of Thirds’.

In this rule, the image is divided by horizontal and vertical lines. This isn’t just smartphone specific; this rule applies for all forms of photography. You may have noticed when you flip your phone into camera mode that there is a grid that appears on the screen, or it is normally an option that can be turned on. This is to help you place your subject into one of the thirds as this helps with the overall look of the image. Also, if you get the time, check the background for distracting items. They may not be a distraction at the time, but when you look back at an image, that bright yellow jumper thrown on the floor can become an annoyance at a later date, and not everyone has the knowledge of Photoshop to be able to remove it.

T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

Get On Their Level I’ve found over the years when photographing children in general, getting down onto their level allows you to see the world from their perspective and can give the image a whole new look. When you shoot from a lower angle, it allows you to capture the scene behind the child rather than shooting at the floor.

The child is also more likely to look directly at you.

Use Silly Distractions People often look at me as if I’m going gaga whilst I’m capturing kids. I even have a set of large googly eyes that I pop over my fingers to distract them and make them laugh and smile. I’ll often make silly noises, sing songs or pull funny faces to get their attention.

Favourite toys are also a winner and its always lovely to capture them as a memory for the future.

Burst Mode Kids are amazingly fast, so I find by using burst mode, you can really capture them doing what they do best. This is great if you like to capture motion and action.

Here’s The Big One…. Editing I often notice that people love to put a filter on an image and whilst they can look pretty cool, they do tend to be ‘trendy’ and can date your images. With a little bit of knowhow, you could make

leisure and features 21 your photos look professional, classic and timeless just by using what your phone provides. Nowadays, most smartphones have editing software built within the photo’s application. They normally contain the basics like exposure, brilliance, highlight and shadow adjusters, contrast, brightness etc. These inbuilt editing software apps are ok, but personally I have found that there are some amazing apps that give a more professional look and are easier to use.

The best ones I have found are an app called ‘Snapseed’ and another called VSCO (has in app purchases). When I edit my images, I tend to use the curves section in Snapseed to brighten the image slightly. I’ll then adjust the colour saturation and contrast to make the colours ‘pop’. After this, I tend to add a filter in either VSCO or Snapseed. The difference between these filters and the ones on Instagram, are that they are timeless, classic, more natural, professional, and subtle looking. I can also keep my images looking consistent, which is essential for my

photography brand. Both are available on IOS and Android.

Personally, I am a huge fan of Black and White photography (this all stems back to when I was training at college, and I would shoot, and develop all my own film). This is a great way to get a classic look to an image without having to try too hard. It is also a great way to naturally get rid of those pesky distractions that we talked about earlier, without the need of any photoshop knowledge! Try it If you would like any further information on any of the photography services I provide, feel free to contact me, SarahDee, via my website www.dollfacefoto.com

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Its good to be back...

Little Monsters House of Fun in Great Dunmow, has finally reopened it doors and they are so happy to welcome everyone back!

It’s been a very long few months of social distancing and home schooling, missing our friends and family. So now is the time for parents to enjoy a good cup of coffee with a nice bite to eat, while the kids have a run around and blow off some steam. It’s a win win, with smiles all round.

Even though Little Monster’s doors have been closed during lockdown, they have

been hard at work. With newly refurbished multimedia, air-conditioned party rooms, a newly designed garden area with climbing frames and beach sized sand pits, plus new menus including monster ice creams and shakes.

Also their new online booking system guarantees you an allocated table for the duration of your play session, plus the pre booking system

www.saladdaysmag.uk ensures no over crowding, even on the rainiest of days.

Little Monsters offers an action packed soft play experience for children of all ages with slides, ball pools, crawl tubes, rope nets, bridges and much, much more to stimulate and exercise even the most adventurous children. For the toddlers there is a smaller, designated soft play area, with sensory lighting and ball pits, where parents and children can interact in total safety.

Of course they haven’t forgotten the grownups as there is plenty of space to relax and catch up with friends. Their café offers a delicious range of food and beverages served throughout the whole day. All food and drinks can be purchased from your table via your mobile, so no need to queue.

Weekly and seasonal specials are added to the menu regularly, and all meals are freshly prepared to order and delivered to your table by one of their experienced team.

Not being able to celebrate birthdays has been particularly hard for many, this year, so why not leave the hard work to the ward winning Little Monster team. With their newly refurbished multimedia party rooms they can provide and cater for every detail of your child’s party including special character appearances such as superheroes, princesses or even cuddly monsters.

So sit back and relax, while the kids have the “best birthday ever” - Ollie, aged 6.

If you’re looking for a group to join, they

have various groups running throughout the week including classes from Baby Sensory, Phonics with Robot Reg, Kidslingo and Daisy First Aid. Great way to make new friends and to keep the children engaged.

Little Monsters has also always prided itself on it standards of cleanliness, they even own their own ball cleaning machine, and to make your visit with Little Monsters as safe as possible and Covid secure, they have implemented a range of additional safety measures; including reduced session sizes, designated session time slots, additional cleaning measures, sanitiser stations, one-way systems/marked routes on the play frame, online food and drink table ordering and much, much more.

For further information and to book a play session or a party, please visit their website www.littlemonstersoftplay.co.uk. For news and event visit their facebook page.

T: 0790 073 5566 E: hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

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24 sport Sports clubs n Archery

Stortford Archery Club Ages: 10+ E: secretary@stortfordarchers.org.uk W: stortfordarchers.org.uk

n Badminton

Bishop’s Stortford Badminton Club Ages: 12+ Contact: Phil Barton; T: 01279 654464 W: stortfordbadminton.net

n Cricket

n Fitness

Bishop’s Stortford Cricket Club Jnr Section Ages: 5+ Contact: Graeme Sumner E: gsumner@arroweurope.com T: 07768 368773

Lift Off Academy Bishop's Stortford (Twyford Business Centre) Ages: 4 years plus Contact Name: Anne-Lise Fitzgerald E: anneliseblum@gmail.com Instagram: @thekookycoach Fitness classes for children teaching them how to move safely, whilst having fun.

Dunmow Cricket Club Ages: 5-16 Contact: Matt Gibson T: 01371 872652

Turpins Indoor Bowls Club Ages: 10+ accompanied T: 01799 525959

Saffron Walden Cricket Club Ages: 4-any age (boys, girls, disabled) Contact: David Barrs; T: 07760 484390 E: saffronwaldencricketclub@gmail.com W: saffronwaldencricket.co.uk At the clubhouse, Anglo American Playing Fields (off Catons Lane) All children aged 4+ welcome

Wimbish Carpet Bowls Ages: 10+ Contact: D Vettewinkel T: 01799 732098 E: d.vettewinkel@sky.com

Stansted Cricket Club Ages: 8-15 Contact: Keith Ayres T: 01279 814471 E: batsman1uk@yahoo.co.uk W: stanstedcc.hitscricket.com

n Bowls

n Canoeing

Bishop’s Stortford Canoe Club Ages: 8+ by discretion Contact: Angela Aldam T: 01279 755089 E: info@stortfordcanoe.org.uk W: stortfordcanoe.org.uk Whoosh Explore Bishop’s Stortford Contact: Peter Nash T: 01279 817453 (evenings) E: peter.nash@yahoo.co.uk W: whooshexplore.co.uk

Thorley Cricket Club Bishop’s Stortford Ages: 8+ Contact: Nigel Pack T: 07984 006012 W: pitchero.com/clubs/thorleycricketclub/ Wenden Kwik Cricket Ages: 4-12 Contact: Ed Welch T: 07825 210021 E: wendenjuniorcricket@gmail.com

n Fencing

Saffron Walden Swords SWCHS Gym Sat am. Ages: 7-adult Contact: David Aronsohn T: 01799 500593 W: saffronwaldenswords.com

n Football

Bishop’s Stortford Football Club Ages: 8+ Contact: Tim Moylette T: 07740 945117 E: tim.moylette@bscfc.co.uk Bishop Stortford Football Club 2 year BTEC extended diploma in sport Birchwood High School, Bishops Stordford Contact: Jim Duggan T: 07870 970925 E: jim-duggan@hotmail.co.uk/ jclift@birchwoodhigh.org.uk Elsenham Youth Football Club Ages: 4-18 Contact: Paul Jarvis, T: 01279 814434 E: pajemiki1@hotmail.com W: eyfc.org Plantation Youth Football Club Saffron Walden Ages: 4-16 Contact: Adrian Marsh M: 07980 946424 E: adrian.marsh1@virginmedia.com W: mypartnerclub.co.uk/plantation-youth-fc

Saffron Walden Community FC Boys: ages 4-18; Various venues T: 01763 836928/07775 944664 E: chairman@PSGFC.co.uk

www.saladdaysmag.uk Saffron Walden PSG FC Ages: 6-16 Herbert’s Farm, Saffron Walden T: 01763 836928/07775 944664 E: chairman@PSGFC.co.uk Thaxted Rangers Youth Football Club Ages 7+ Contact: Martin Tritton; T: 07976 670409 E: martintritton@hotmail.com FB: thaxtedrangersyouthfc

n Golf

Bishop’s Stortford Golf Club Ages: 5+ Pro: Simon Sheppard; T: 01279 651324 W: bsgc.co.uk Golf World Stansted Contact: Colin Pharaoh T: 01279 812865 Great Hadham Golf & Country Club Ages: 4+ Pros: K Lunt/P Hetherington T: 01279 843558 W: greathadham.co.uk Saffron Walden Golf Club Pro: Rob McNicholas; T: 01799 527728 E: sarah@smithpeformancegolf.co.uk Junior coaching programme open to all ages and abilities of children!

n Gymnastics

Lift Off Academy and listed under Fitness

T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

www.cnmadvisory.com • 01799 521 301

sport 25

26 sport Stortford Gymnastics Ages: up to 12 T: Janine Peart 07808 808815/ Karen Perkins 07976 124095 E: enquiries@stortfordgymnastics.com W: stortfordgymnastics.com Stortford Gymnastics Satellite Club All Stars, Church End; Little Hadham Ages: 9+ Thursdays 18.00-19.00 Tumbling for All 19.00-20.00 Gym Fest T: Janine 07808 808815 E: enquiries@stortfordgymnastics.com W: stortfordgymnastics.com

n Handball

Bishop's Stortford Handball Club Tuesdays at Herts and Essex Sports Centre, Beldams Lane, CM23 5LH 5-6pm Mini Handball 6-7pm u14 and u16 7-9pm u19 and Seniors Contact: Annica; T: 07940 392894 E: stortfordhandball@gmail.com

n Hockey

Blue Hornets Felsted and Braintree W: braintreehc.co.uk/bluehornets Saffron Walden Junior Hockey Club Ages: 7-15 Contact: Andy MacIntosh; T: 01799 550878 W: saffronwaldenhockey.co.uk

n Martial arts Associated Karate Schools (AKS) Bishop’s Stortford - St Michael's Mead & Bishop's Park Contact: Anthony Barrett 5th Dan T: 07929 100612 E: barrettbusiness@aol.com W: karateschools.co.uk Bishop’s Stortford Judokwai W: bishopsstortfordjudo.com B.L.Tae Kwon-Do Schools Saffron Walden; Contact: Bruce Lapthorn T: 01354 693554/07816 032265 E: bruce@tkd72.plus.com W: bl-taekwondo-schools.co.uk Budo Taijutsu Saffron Walden W: mushinzui.com Dunmow Shotokan Karate Club Instructor: Garry Hutton T: 07770 854154; W: eska.org.uk Haverhill & Saffron Walden Shotokan Karate Ages: 5+ Contact: Gill Payne; M: 07939 138665 E: gill.payne@talktalk.net Judo, Ickleton and Sawston Ages: 6+ Contact: Richard Drage T: 01763 838203; M: 07860 331081 E: iskjc@yahoo.co.uk) Koryoda Kids Martial Arts for Little Ninjas Ages: 6-11 W: koryoda.com

www.saladdaysmag.uk SW Judo Club Ages: 7+ E: saffronwaldenjudoclub@hotmail.co.uk Thursdays Dame Bradbury's School SW Contact: Michelle Camp FB: "Saffron Walden Judo Club".

Saffron Walden Squash Club Ages: 8-adult; Junior coaching Saturdays Contact: George Atterbury T: 01799 530695 E: george.atterbury@hotmail.com

Shotokan Karate Ryu Bishop’s Stortford & Stansted Ages: 4+ Contact: Sensei Donna Ring 5th Dan or Sensei Michael Ring, 6th Dan T: 01279 731752 W: skr.org.uk

Bishop’s Stortford Swimming Club Bishop's Stortford College Sunday 3-6pm Ages 3-Adult E: membership@bsswimclub.org.uk www.bsswimclub.org.uk

Te-Ashi-Do Karate - see far right Bishop’s Stortford Ages: 3-adult Sensei Alan Worrell, 4th Dan T: 07826 849388 E: alan.worrell@sky.com W: teashido.co.uk Wendens Ambo Mini Rugby Ages: 5-12 Joyce Franklin Academy Contact: E: chair@wendenrugby.com www.wendenrugby.com

n Running

Bishop’s Stortford Running Club Ages: 11-16 Contact: Ian McClymont; T: 01279 723786 W: bsrc.org.uk

n Squash

Bishop’s Stortford Squash Club Juniors Ages: 5 years+ Contact: Andrew Mulvey; T: 01279 652897 E: andrewmulvey@stortfordsquash.co.uk W: stortfordsquash.co.uk

n Swimming

Dolphin Swim Linton, Fulbourn & Bishops Stortford Ages: 6 weeks + Contact: Amanda Gawthrope T: 07975 719 444 E: dolphinbabyswim@gmail.com W: dolphinbabyswim.com & bishopsstortforddolphinswim.com SAS Swimming - see opposite page Linton and Fulbourn classes Ages: from 3 ½ yrs+ T: 01799 500142 or 07947 730287 E: mail@sas-swimming.co.uk W: sas-swimming.co.uk Saffron Walden Swimming Club (Saffron Seals) Ages: 8-16 E: trials@saffronseals.org.uk W: saffronseals.org.uk Meets at Lord Butler Fitness & Leisure Centre, Saffron Walden with training sessions on Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. Competitive club with an element of fun.

sport 27

T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

Warm water pools ideal for beginners & improvers • Friendly, experienced teachers • Fun and progressive • Small classes (max. 6 pupils) • Free award scheme Linton & Fulbourn Ages 3½ onwards Call 01799 500142, Mob: 07947 730287 sasswimmingcambridge@gmail.com

www.sas-swimming.co.uk Te-Ashi-Do

Karate Get fit, gain confidence, learn to defend yourself, have fun!

Classes for 5+ years – adults Markwell Pavilion, Bishop’s Stortford, Thursdays @ 5.30pm

Sensei Alan Worrell, 4th Dan

T: 07826 849 388 “ ”

E: alan.worrell@sky.com www.teashido.co.uk facebook.com/TeAshiDoKarateBishopsStortford

28 sport

www.saladdaysmag.uk

Bury Lane Fun Barn Soft Play and the Beach @ Bury Lane

Located on the A10 Melbourn Bypass, just north of Royston, you will find Bury Lane Fun Barn and the Beach @ Bury Lane outdoor adventure play zone. The farm themed soft play Fun Barn opened in 2014 and was extended in December 2019 to increase not only the soft play area but to create additional party rooms, extra seating and a bespoke, dedicated Sensory Room for children with additional needs and the under 2s.

The Fun Barn also opens early on selected Sundays for SEN Relaxed Sessions, specifically for children with additional needs and their siblings to enjoy the soft play and Beach in a quieter and calmer environment.

In the summer of 2019 the unique and hugely successful Beach @ Bury Lane was opened. From late spring until early Autumn this safe and enclosed outdoor play area has a huge sandy beach, mini trampolines, mini diggers, a bespoke

climbing boulder, swings, outdoor games, slides and more. During the school holidays there are also go karts and bungee trampolines available for those seeking a bit more excitement.

Themed with deckchairs, beach huts, an ice cream & refreshments wagon, it really is all the fun of the seaside without the long drive!

With its own in-house Cafe and toilet facilities, adults and children alike can relax and enjoy a fun-filled visit making memories at Bury Lane. The Fun Barn is for 0-10 years old and the Beach up to 12 years old. And after all that playtime, pop into the adjacent Bury Lane Farm Shop for fabulous food and glorious gifts (including children’s toys, books and games).

For further information contact Bury Lane Fun Barn on 01763 260418 or visit www.burylanefunbarn.co.uk.

Fun for Children at Bury Lane BURY LANE FUN BARN - Fabulous soft play fun for ages 0-10 years - Farm themed wavy slides, balance beams, role play and more - Dedicated under 5s area and sensory room - In house cafe

THE BEACH @ BURY LANE - Seasonal opening, for ages 0-12 years

Loyalty card rewards for regular visits

f

A10 Melbourn By-Pass, Melbourn, Royston, Herts SG8 6DF Tel: 01763 260418 www.burylanefunbarn.co.uk Check website for opening hours and current Ts&Cs

performing arts 29

T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

Dance & drama n Dance Graham School of Dance T: 01279 654 423 E: info@grahamschoolofdance.co.uk W: grahamschoolofdance.co.uk JCL School of Dance M: 07753 607 523 E: julialast8@gmil.com W: jclschooldance.webden.co.uk Karen Howarth School of Dance T: 01279 651535 E: balletkaren@hotmail.co.uk Kate Plummer School of Dance M: 07832 212 593 E: kateplum@hotmail.co.uk Tempos Performing Arts M: 07956 211 909 E: info@temposperformingarts.co.uk W: temposperformingarts.co.uk

n Drama Drama Wise T: 01223 832 288 E: frances.wyse@btinternet.com W: dramaclasses.biz

n Theatre schools Buzzy Bees Sting Performing Arts M: 07900 735 566 E: hello@stingperformingarts.com W: stingperformingarts.com

Hyperfusion Theatre Co M: 07909 960 490 E: sarah@hyperfusion.co.uk W: hyperfusion.co.uk Pauline Quirk Academy M: 07958 913 456 E: paula.templeman@pqaacademy.com W: pqaacademy.com Pure Rhythm Performing Arts T: 01799 501 579 E: sue@purerhythm.co.uk W: purerhythm.co.uk Saffron Walden Musical Theatre Company M: 07799 628 977 E: swmtcyg@gmail.com W: swmtc.net Stagecoach T: 01799 588 246 E: saffronwalden@stagecoach.co.uk W: stagecoach.co.uk/saffronwalden Sting Performing Arts M: 07903 192 094 E: hello@stingperformingarts.com W: stingperformingarts.com

Music n Choirs, orchestras Cantate Youth Choir E: info@cantate.co.uk W: cantata.co.uk Joyful Noise T: 01799 520 083 E: annecass@btinternet.com

@RoseBoutiqueEssex

To receive 10% off any order, simply enter the code SALAD10

at checkout.

Rose Boutique Essex is an online boutique (r n by t o local Mum's, Leanne & Emma). We specialise in qualit# and fashionable ladies clothing in sizes 8-20. We host reg lar pop up shops in and around Essex and offer private at home par ies too.

We offer private appoint ents and have reg lar open days at our shop in Thax ed.

www.roseboutiqueessex.co.uk

30 performing arts

Why making theatre for change is especially important right now.

We spoke to local theatre maker Sarah Ellis, Artistic Director of HyperFusion Theatre Company. A multi award winning theatre company which is the mothership for a local theatre Academy and a professional touring company, the focus of today’s article.

Sarah has lived locally for over 20 years and talks here about her passion for theatre for change.

Sarah left drama school with a single mission. To create theatre that makes society a better place.”She started TIC Box Productions (Theatre Inspiring Change) and worked relentlessly to develop a unique and innovative style of theatre, tackling hate whilst celebrating diversity. She makes theatre for young audiences, showcasing real stories on homophobia, bullying, consent, racism and domestic abuse with a play and interactive workshop. “It’s a ‘rehearsal for life’ where they can try out what to do in a safe atmosphere to make things better.”

TIC Box has worked with nearly 41,000 young people and is multi award winning, inc National & European Diversity awards, Community Champion and Most Inspiring Business Woman of the year.

“We reflect real experiences of young people that thrive in silence that allows

them to grow. And post covid those numbers and statistics are even higher.

Theatre for change has never been so important.”

But it hasn’t been easy. The company is a not for profit so ALL profits go back into their work. Ten years of austerity/funding cuts meant that it was getting harder to get this essential work out there. So Sarah started an entertainment company to raise money and The Shhh Experience was born.

Immersive shows, where the audience are in the centre of the action and drawn in as part of the story. They’ve been wedding guests, in detention, in an underground club, detectives at a murder mystery and friends of Willy Wonka. In pubs, cinema’s, derelict spaces, schools and even the Orient Express!” And then came the Secret Cabaret Club, a regular feature in town showcasing stars from national and international cabaret. And now a new cabaret - Kabaret 4 Kids. “It’s a cabaret show but this time for young people.

Shhh… don’t tell anyone but our show has a surprise visit from Mary Poppins herself.”

Great professional theatre whilst raising money to help our young people. What could be better?

For more information about Sarah’s work check out www.hyperfusion.co.uk.

www.saladdaysmag.uk

T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

From Tots to Teens

After a long year of dance lessons on and off zoom the Kate Plummer School of Dance are thrilled to be back in our studio! Having been teaching in Saffron Walden since 2006 it’s been difficult not seeing all our lovely students’ faces in person. From tots to teens everyone has done so well to keep up their training online and we’re really proud of the progress they have made. However, it’s nothing like dancing in-person and it’s absolutely amazing to be back and working towards our upcoming Ballet, Tap and Modern Theatre ISTD examinations. We have so many exams to catch up on so we are really knuckling down to get them all done next term!

Sadly, we’ll be unable to do our grand

summer show this year so we’re pencilling in dates for 2022 now so that our students can showcase their talents to a large audience in a theatre with professional sound and lighting.

Alongside that we’ll be appearing at the postponed Saffron carnival so lots to look forward to and everyone is very excited for what’s to come.

Many of our students have won places at professional dance colleges including Bird College, Central School of Ballet and London Studio Centre and we look forward to seeing them in professional shows soon.

Please contact Kate Plummer on 07832 212493 if you are interested in dance classes in Saffron Walden.

performing arts 31

32 performing arts

www.saladdaysmag.uk AWARD WINNING

Saffron Walden Town Band M: 07779 266 853 E: stephthake@gmail.com Sting Choir M: 07484 865 763 E: hello@stingperformingarts.com W: stingperformingarts.com

Parent and child music and dance classes in Saffron Walden and Bishops Stortford

FRl cElaEsses

tria able avail

St. Mary’s Church Junior Choir T: 07928 339 310 E: choirsmsw@gmail.com

n Music tutors

James Free (sax, flute, guitar) M: 07818 334 592 E: jamesfsax@gmail.com W: schoolofeverything.com

n Music schools

Kodaly Classes; E: info@saffroncym.org W: Kodaly.org.uk Saffron Centre for Young Musicians E: info@saffronmusicschool.com W: saffronmusicschool.com St Marys C of E school T: 01799 523 384 E: info@st-maryscofe.essex.sch.uk W: stmaryssw.org.uk

Dan Ketteridge (Guitar) M: 07862 278 404 E: fig6@hotmail.com Elizabeth De Vile (piano) All ages. Offers practical exams and aural test coaching for instrumentalists.

T: 01799 500 111; E: edevile@hotmail.co.uk

Fun, friendly and affordable performing arts classes taught by local professional teachers.

Wide range of classes for students ages 3+ years. www.temposperformingarts.co.uk Classes in info@temposperformingarts.co.uk Stansted, www.tinytempos.co.uk Ugley, info@tinytempos.co.uk Newport and Saffron Walden Tel: 07956 211909

BOOK ONLINE

Music and Movement classes for Babies - Preschoolers in Saffron Walden Please visit www.boogiewoogies.co.uk for details of upcoming blocks of classes and to book your space Or contact Sarah Jones directly for more info Email: sarah@boogiewoogies.co.uk

Tel: 07837 176823

performing arts 33

T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

Sing Dance Act

School of Performing Arts

Claim a £30 refund on cloth nappies in Essex Cloth nappies provide a great alternative to disposable nappies and can have health and environmental benefits. Love Essex are giving £30 refunds on the purchase of any cloth nappies on their website www.loveessex.org All you need is a receipt showing you paid £30 or more for cloth nappies in the last 12 months.

Ages 5 to 17

Dance classes for young children from the age of 3 years upwards.

Registered teacher of the R.A.D, A.I.S.T.D. Exams in ballet, tap and modern, and contemporary dance.

Believe, Achieve, Succeed

Contact: Sue Raven 07952 993288 or 01799 501579

sue@purerhythm.co.uk

www.purerhythm.co.uk

Volunteer to help children grow their passion for reading books!

Local libraries need volunteers who want to inspire children to read this summer.

The Summer Reading Challenge encourages children to read six books during the summer holidays. You will help children join the challenge, talk to them about the books they read and help them grow their passion for reading at your local library.

Aged 4-18? Make music with Saffron Centre for Young Musicians SCYM is a division of Guildhall School, which delivers world-class performing arts training.

To book your two free taster sessions or for more information go to saffroncym.org

You can apply to be a summer reading volunteer at the Essex Libraries website.

Applications for bursaries close Monday 5 July

34 pre-school

SAPLINGS NURSERY ‘where children play to learn' Waltham Hall Cottage, Bambers Green Road, CM22 6PF

Beautiful, family environment Flexible child care options Funded places 15 & 30 hours All-inclusive affordable prices

01279 851998 saplingsnursery.co.uk

www.saladdaysmag.uk

Pre-schools n Albury

Albury Seedlings Pre-School Albury C of E Primary School Ages: 2 to school age T: 01279 771253 E: admin@albury.herts.sch.uk

n Ashdon

Ashdon Childrens Nursery Ages: 3mths-5yrs; Contact: Annette Bel T: 01799 584848 E: info@ashdonchildrensnursery.com W: ashdonchildrensnursery.com Forest School sessions in Ashdon E: Sarah@natureoflearning.co.uk W: natureoflearning.co.uk

n Bartlow

Little Hands Nursery Ages: 0-4; Head: Marion Kell T: 01223 897945 E: lh-bartlow@btconnect.com

n Birchanger

Birchanger Butterflies Preschool Birchwood; Ages: 2½-5 T: 01279 810800 E: admin@birchangerbutterflies.org.uk

n Bishop’s Stortford

Appletree Pre-School Windhill21 School Ages: 2-5 Contact: Hayley Lynskey T: 07745 262676/01279 771367

Blues Pre-School Nursery Bishop’s Stortford High School Ages: 2-5 Contact; Kim Craythorne T: 01279 755422 E: admissions@bluespreschool.co.uk W: bluespreschool.co.uk Busy Bees Nursery St Michael’s Mead Ages: 0-5 Contact: Mandy Caslake T: 01279 755522 Busy Bees Thorley Park 16 The Thorley Centre Ages: 3 months-5 yrs Contact: Stacy Kersey T: 01279 654830 Doodle Do Day Nursery The Old Church Hall, Portland Road Ages: Babies-5 Contact: Colleen Guiver T: 01279 653318 E: manager@doodledodaynursery.com W: doodledodaynursery.com Grove Cottage (Special needs) 151 London Road. Bishop’s Stortford.

M-F (offers 15hr and 30hr funded places) Ages: Birth-5 Contact: Maria Sims T: 01279 656085 E: nursery@mencapgrovecottage.org High House Montessori Nursery Takeley Rd, Herts CM22 6PL Ages: 0-5, Contact: Vanessa Callan T: 01279 870898 W: highhousenursery.co.uk

T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk Little Ladybirds All Saints School; Ages: 2-4 Contact: Hayley Lynskey T: 07745 262676/01279 771367 Little Oaks - See page 3 Howe Green House School; Ages: 2-3 Contact: Julie Sellears; T: 01279 657706 E: julie.s@howegreenhouse.essex.sch.uk W: howegreenhousseschool.co.uk Sunflowers Pre-School Ages: 3 & 4 yrs Thorley Hill Primary School Park Lane, CM23 3NH. Manager: Louisa Cowler T: 07752 562206 E: sunflowers.preschool17@gmail.com W: sunflowerspreschool.co.uk Sycamore House Day Nursery Manager: Courtney Skeggs T: 01279 465097; E: manager@ sycamorehousedaynursery.co.uk W: sycamorehousedaynursery.co.uk Thorley Pre-School & Thorley Tree Tots Manager: Jean Palfreman T: 01279 503895; M: 07722 129073 E: admin@thorleypreschool.plus.com W: thorleypreschool.co.uk Thorn Grove Little Acorns Thorn Grove School; Ages: 2-5 Contact: Sam Stedman; T: 01279 653233 E: tglittleacorns@aol.com

n Chrishall

Chrishall Pre-School Manager Mrs Sonia Mckenna T: 01763 838592 E: preschool@chrishall.essex.sch.uk W: chrishall.essex.sch.uk

pre-school 35

n Clavering

n Great Chesterford

W: wrenspreschool.co.uk

Clavering & Arkesden Preschool Head: Cara Donker; Ages: 2½-5 T: 01799 550380 E: claveringarkesdenpreschool@gmail.com W: claveringarkesdenpreschool.org.uk

Great Chesterford Community Preschool Ages: 2-5 Manager: Debbie Allard; T: 07840 341551 E: admissions@chesterfordspreschool. org.uk

Under 5s Preschool High Street, Hatfield Broad Oak Manager: Sharon; T: 01279 718998

n Farnham

Saplings Farnham (Preschool) Term Time: Mon-Fri 09.00-15.00 Contact: Jess Boyten E: admin@saplingsnursery.co.uk W: saplingsfarnham.co.uk

n Finchingfield

Finchingfield Pre-school Ages: 2-5 Manager: Christine Lambert T: 01371 811593; M: 07713 189801 E: finchingfieldpreschool@gmail.com

n Ford End

Ford End Pre-School Village Hall Prorietor: Joanna Mardell T: 01371 874457 M: 07754 876330 E: joannamardell@yahoo.co.uk W: fordendpreschool.co.uk

n Great Bardfield

Great Bardfield Pre-School Ages: 2 to school age Manager: Kathy King T: 01371 811580; M: 07971 429386 E: KathyKing32@btinternet.com

n Great Chishill

Great Chishill Nursery School Gt Chishill Cricket Pavillion Ages: 2-5 Head: Anita Street; T: 01763 836968 W: chishillnursery.co.uk

n Great Dunmow

Flitch Green Montessori Preschool Manager: Carly Gold T: 01371 823293 E: flitchgreen@mymontessori.org.uk W: flitchgreenpreschool.co.uk Freedom Daycare Nursery Contacts: Joules Abraham & Kath Gibson T: 01371 873663 Maynard Montessori Pre-School Managers: Becky Sadler, T: 01371 856995 E: maynard@mymontessori.org.uk W: maynardmontessori.co.uk Puffin Preschool Head: Carolin Dodkins T: 07712 858878 Wrens Pre-School Quaker Meeting House Proprietor: Joanna Mardell T: 01371 874457; M: 07754 876330 E: joannamardell@yahoo.co.uk

n Hatfield Broad Oak n Hempstead

Pips Nursery - see page 37 Boytons Farm, Boytons Lane, Hempstead.

T: 01279 295296 M: 07866 469471 E: pippa@pips-nursery.co.uk M-F Flexible hours Registered child minding setting.

Extension of PIPS Nursery in Strethall.

Ages: 3 months to 3 years.

After school care from 4-9 years.

Holiday club with a variety of activities.

Norland Nurse; NNEB, RSH.

n Henham

Henham & Ugley Nursery School Ages: 3-5; Head: Mrs Kim Hall T: 01279 850213 E: admin@henhamugley.essex.sch.uk W: henhamugley.essex.sch.uk Saplings Nursery- see page 34 Ages: 3 mths-5 yrs Contact: Cheryl Rae; T: 01279 851998 E: admin@saplingsnursery.co.uk W: saplingsnursery.co.uk

n Little Hallingbury

Little Hallingbury Playgroup Village Hall; Ages: 2-rising 5 Contact: Debbie Roberts; T: 01279 726578 E: debbieroberts35@virginmedia.com

36 pre-school

n Much Hadham Faraway Tree Kindergarten Ages: 2+ Hadham Cross Congregational Ch Hall Manager: Kristie Chesters T: 07488 333820 E: info@farawaytreekindergarten.co.uk W: farawaytreekindergarten.co.uk Mo, Tue, Thur, Fri. 08.30-16.30. All year Much Hadham Pre-School Ages: 2+ -5 years Oudle Lane, Much Hadham SG10 6DQ Contact: Maria; T: 01279 842614 E: muchhadhampreschool@yahoo.co.uk W: muchhadhampreschool.co.uk Monday-Friday 09.00-15.00

n Newport

Olivers Lodge Nursery Ages: 0-4 07.00-18.30; Head: Alex Suffolk T: 01799 540709 E: info@olivers-lodge.co.uK

Strong outdoors ethos; based on Forest School Principles

Saffron Walden Nursery School

Olivers Lodge Pre-School Ages: 3-4; 09.00-15.00 Head: Alex Suffolk T: 01799 540709 E: info@olivers-lodge.co.uk

Child-centred, Discovery based approach

High quality “home from Shirehill Industrial Estate, home” Now welcoming children aged from Saffron Walden, environment Essex CB11 3AQ 12 months to 5 years at our friendly with free-flow child-centred setting. access to the outdoors Highly qualified and experienced Staff

01799 522108

led by a Qualified Early Years & Open from Primary Teacher.

8am-4pm Follow us on Facebook Term time only www.saffronwaldennursery.org.uk swnschool@aol.com

n Saffron Walden

Bell Day Nursery; Ages: 0-5 Head: Jenny Rivers/Glenys Goodwin T: 01799 528051 Bright Horizons Crocus Saffron Walden Nursery and Preschool Ages: 3 mth-5 yrs Manager: Anne Hunt T: 01799 522522 E: saffronwalden@brighthorizons.com W: brighthorizons.com.

www.saladdaysmag.uk Meadow Montessori Nursery Ages: 2-5; Head: Colette Loveday T: 01799 513858 W: montessorimeadows.co.uk Saffron Walden Nursery School see left Ages: 1-5 Head: Kirsty Curtis; T: 01799 522108 E: info@saffronwaldennursery.org.uk W: saffronwaldennursery.org.uk Stehen Perse Nursery (Dame Bradbury’s) Ashdon Road, CB10 2AL; Ages: 1-5 T: 01223 454762 E: admissions@stephenperse.com W: stephenperse.com St Mary’s Church Pre-School Ages: 2-5 Head: Faye Jeff; T: 01799 520358 E: smcpreschool@btconnect.com W: stmaryschurchpreschool.co.uk St Thomas More Montessori Ages: 1-5 yrs; Manager: Rachel Salt, Vanessa Thompson T: 01799 523248- ext.3 E: stm@mymontessori.org.uk W: stthomasmoremontessori.co.uk

n Stansted

Bentfield Nursery Ages: 3-5; T: 01279 813626 E: admin@bentfield.essex.sch.uk W: bentfield.essex.sch.uk Rainbow Preschool Ages: 2½-5; Administrator: Gill T: 01279 814242 W: rainbowpreschool-stansted.co.uk

pre-school 37

T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk Ugley Duckling Pre-School Ages: 2½-5; Head: Caroline Dawson T: 01279 812621

n Steeple Bumpstead

Blois Meadow Day Nursery Ages: Birth-5 years; T: 01440 730520 W: bloismeadowdaynursery.com

W: wendensambopreschool.co.uk

n Wimbish

Busy Bee Childcare Centre Ages: 2-school Manager: T: 01799 523542 E: bees.busy@yahoo.co.uk

Steeple Bumpstead Pre-School Ages: 2½-5; Manager: Carol Bradley T: 07376 079254; W: sbpsp.co.uk

n Strethall

Pips Nursery; Ages: 3 mths-3 yrs Head: Pippa Doherty; T: 01799 522782

n Thaxted

The Barn Nursery, Barn Kids Ages: 3 mths-5 yrs; Head: Claire Simpson T: 01371 831262 E: info@thebarnnursery.co.uk Westwood Montessori Ages: 3 mths-5 yrs; Managers: Clair Snell-Smith, Jo Gaught; T: 01371 831902 E: westwood@mymontessori.org.uk W: westwoodmontessori.co.uk Windmill Pre-School Ages:2ys-5yrs Contact: Anne Guney T: 01371 831457 E: windmillpreschoolthaxted@gmail.com W: thewindmillpreschool.co.uk

n Wendens Ambo

Wendens Ambo Pre-School Ages: 2-5; Head: Sara Herring T: 07543 651343 E: manager@wendensambopreschool.co.uk

PIPS Boytons Farm, Boytons Lane, Hempstead. CB10 2PW

t: 01279 295296 m: 07866 469471 e: pippa@pips-nursery.co.uk M-F Flexible hours Registered child minding setting.

Extension of PIPS Nursery in Strethall.

3 months to 3 years.

After school care from 4 to 9 years.

Holiday club with a variety of activities.

Norland Nurse; NNEB, RSH.

38 toddlers and babies n Monday Baby College Felsted Memorial Hall. (10am 18m- 36m) (11am 9m -18m) (12pm 0-9m) Infant, toddlers and junior programmes for parents and little ones to enjoy together with activities and learning skills to promote social skills and awareness.

M: 07871 119037 E: tegan@babycollege.co.uk W: www.babycollege.co.uk Hartbeeps Birchanger Church Hall. 10am Interactive baby and toddler classes featuring: music, puppets, laughter and fun. M: 07779 100053 E: Sharon.g@hartbeeps.com W: www.hartbeeps.com/bishopsstortford-harlow-andsurrounds

n Tuesday

Baby Massage with Lauren Saffron Walden Town Hall. 10:15-11:15 Learn to massage your baby and enjoy time with your little one!

M: 07840 544709 E: babymassagewithlauren@gmail.com W: www.babymassagewithlauren.co.uk Hartbeeps Bishops Stortford Rugby Club from 10am Interactive baby and toddler classes featuring: music, puppets, laughter and fun. M: 07779 100053 E: Sharon.g@hartbeeps.com W: www.hartbeeps.com/bishopsstortford-harlow-andsurrounds

(term time only except where stated)

Sweaty Mama Golden Acre community centre, Saffron Walden 11am. A specialist group for pre natal and post natal women to enjoy activities for mind and body with baby or bump. M: 07834 530296 E: claireneville@sweatymama.com W: www.sweatymama.com

Hartbeeps – Baby Beeps Stansted Free Church Hall. 11:15am Interactive baby and toddler classes featuring: music, puppets, laughter and fun. M: 07779 100053 E: Sharon.g@hartbeeps.com W: www.hartbeeps.com/bishopsstortford-harlow-andsurrounds

Boogie Woogies Margret Street Hall, Thaxted. From 9:30am. Unique music and movement classes for babies and pre-school aged children. M: 07837 176823 E: sarah@boogiewoogies.co.uk W: www.boogiewoogies.co.uk

Tiny Tempos Golden Acre Community Centre, Saffron Walden. 11:15-11:45. Tiny Tutus toddler ballet classes for parent and child.

Suitable from 18months old.

M: 07956 211909 E: info@tinytempos.co.uk W: www.tinytempos.co.uk

Tiny Tempos St Barnabas Centre, Thorley 10:45am11:30am. Music and movement classes suitable from birth. M: 07956 211909 E: info@tinytempos.co.uk W: www.tinytempos.co.uk

Bible Group Saffron Walden 10am Free and friendly Bible group sessions for Families with young children. M: 07708 157326 IG: @Sandratoddlersteam

Baby Sensory Flitch Green Community Centre, Dunmow.

From 9:30am. All classes are structured to introduce ideas of play to aid and enhance babies’ precious early learning through play. M: 07703 79027 W: braintree@babysensory.co.uk

BoogieWoogies United Reform Church, Saffron Walden from 9:30am. Unique music and movement classes for babies and preschool aged children. M: 07837 176823 E: sarah@boogiewoogies.co.uk W: www.boogiewoogies.co.uk

Baby Massage with Lauren Parsonage Community Hall, Bishops Stortford. 10:45-11:45. Learn to massage your baby and enjoy time with your little one! M: 07840 544709 E: babymassagewithlauren@gmail.com W: www.babymassagewithlauren.co.uk

Sweaty Mama Standon Village Hall 10:30am. A specialist group for pre natal and post natal women to enjoy activities for mind and body with baby or bump.

M: 07834 530296 E: claireneville@sweatymama.com W: www.sweatymama.com

n Wednesday

n Thursday

www.saladdaysmag.uk Jo Jingles Sewards End Village Hall from 9:30am Jo Jingles offers fun, interactive music, singing and movement classes for babies and pre-school children. T: 01440 730039 E: westsuffolk@jojingles.co.uk W: www.jojingles.com Tiny Tempos Baptist Church, Saffron Walden 10:45 – 11:30. Music and movement classes suitable from birth.

M: 07956 211909 E: info@tinytempos.co.uk W: www.tinytempos.co.uk Baby Gymnastics Twyford Industrial Estate, Bishops Stortford 9:15am. This 45 minute class is aimed to stimulate learning through sensory using hand apparatus and encourage talking and singing with songs and play. M: 07808 808815 E: enquiries@stortfordgymnastics.com W: www.stortfordgymnastics.com Kids Lingo Saffron Walden, Dunmow and Bishops Stortford. From 10am. In our award winning classes the aim is to bring the language to life through songs, games, stories and drama. M: 07926 007797 E: jessicalp@kidslingo.co.uk W: www.kidslingo.co.uk

T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

n Friday

n Saturday

Hartbeeps Birchanger Church Hall from 10am Interactive baby and toddler classes featuring: music, puppets, laughter and fun. M: 07779 100053 E: Sharon.g@hartbeeps.com W: www.hartbeeps.com/bishopsstortford-harlow-andsurrounds

Baby Ballers

(term time only except where stated)

toddlers and babies 39

Herts & Essex Sports Centre, Bishops Stortford. From 9:15am. Baby Football from toddlers aged from 16mths to 5 years old. M: 07596 345275 E: b.stortford@babyballers.com W: www.babyballersbishopsstortford.class4kids.co.uk

Sweaty Mama Personage Lane Community Hall, Bishops Stortford 10:30am. A specialist group for pre natal and post natal women to enjoy activities for mind and body with baby or bump. M: 07834 530296 E: claireneville@sweatymama.com W: www.sweatymama.com Tiny Tempos Baptist Church, Saffron Walden 9:4010:45 & 10:45-11:30. Music and movement classes suitable from birth.

M: 07956 211909 E: info@tinytempos.co.uk W: www.tinytempos.co.uk Baby Sensory Flitch Green Community Centre, Dunmow.

From 9:30am. All classes are structured to introduce ideas of play to aid and enhance babies’ precious early learning through play. M: 07703 790273 W: braintree@babysensory.co.uk Yoga Todds Town Hall, Market Street, Saffron Walden 10:30am.Toddlers Yoga from walking to approx. six years. M: 07977 995204 E: flowyogakids@gmail.com W: www,bookwhen.com/yogatodds

BEAUTY SALON & TRAINING ACADEMY 1-3 Stortford Road, Great Dunmow, CM6 1DA

Free Parking Via Chequers Lane Tel: 01371 859015 @sibellebeautyessex Eyelash Extensions - Hard Gel Extensions - Gel Polish - Manicure - Pedicure - Crystal Clear Facials - Waxing - Eyebrows - Massage - Aesthetics - Ear Piercing - Accredited Beauty Training Courses

40 toddlers and babies

www.saladdaysmag.uk

Cut your bills and boost your income!

It is estimated that more than 3,000 households in Uttlesford may be struggling to pay their utility bills or cutting back on their use of gas or electricity to pay for other household essentials. This may be because they are out of work, managing a on low income or living in an energy-inefficient property.

The good news is that there is lots of help available. A team of energy specialists at Uttlesford Citizens Advice can check your benefit entitlements and offer advice on energy efficiency measures and home improvement grants. They can also compare deals and help you switch to a lower tariff; provide support to manage fuel related or any other debts and access emergency funds on your behalf, if needed.

Last year the team helped more than 200 families cut their bills, securing over £53,000 in additional benefits and grants.

So, remember, warm homes help is not just for winter! Why not give the team a call? Getting in touch is easy. Simply call 01799 618858 or email warmhomes@uttlesfordca.org.uk .

Advice is always completely free and confidential.

Uttlesford Citizens Advice Barnards Yard, Saffron Walden, CB11 4EB 01799 618858 warmhomes@uttlesfordca.org.uk www.uttlesfordcab.org.uk

Born to Birth.

Hypnobirthing and caesarean section classes. T: 07828 866198 E: ellie@borntobirthcompany.com W: www.borntobirthcompany.com

Accuro Supporting young people with disability in West Essex T :01279 870297 W: www.accuro.org.uk

Children’s Centres

Herts Family Centres T: 0300 123 7572 W: www.hertsfamilycentres.org

Conkers Children’s Centre Cathodoeon Centre, Linton T: 07768 008919

Antenatal and postnatal

Little Goslings Family Hub North Street, Great Dunmow T: 0300 2470122

Mummy MOT A woman’s health check with physio Contact: Fiona, M: 07757 609091 E: hello@fionaolearlyphysio.co.uk W: www.fionaolearlyphysio.co.u

Spangles family Hub Lower Street, Stansted T: 0300 2470122

Hypnobirthing Birth Easy with Georgia Bishop’s Stordford T: 07919 158070 E: georgia@birtheasy.co.uk W: www.birtheasywithgeorgia.co.uk

Fairycroft Children’s Centre T: 01799 521602 W: www.essexcentre.info/Fairycroft

We deliver over 10,000 FREE magazines directly into the school books bags of every school in the area above. We include social, community and health hubs.

To been seen advertise now!

Call :- 07900 735566

Helping children believe they can do anything Singing, dancing and acting classes for 2 - 18 year-olds

stagecoach.co.uk/saffronwalden saffronwalden@stagecoach.co.uk 01799 588246 Venue: Joyce Frankland Academy, CB11 3TR

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.

g rtford Colle Bishop’s Sto

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GE E L L O C R E M SUM 21 6th 0 2 P CAMr 4 weeks from July 2 fo weekly g n i n Run

For further information please contact us at collegecamp@bishopsstortfordcollege.org

01279 354136

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