Free! Spring 2013 R
500 Free recorders with Dawsons Liverpool
All the local information Liverpool parents really need! Win a weekend in a cosy heated WigWam!
Plus lots more competitions and offers inside!
Kids Direct Liverpool
Education & Childcare
Spring 2013
Best wishes,
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www.kidsdirectliverpool.com
Kids Direct Liverpool
Editors Note
Welcome to our Spring issue of Kids Direct Liverpool. We don’t know about you guys, but we are definitely ready for the warmer days of spring and to be able to get outdoors again! See our section on great days out for lots of outdoor family fun. We also have a lovely feature on Camping and a great competition to win a weekend in a cosy heated Wigwam! Dietician Claire Choudhary gives us some great tips on how to get our kids to eat vegetables. We also have 2 yummy Easter recipes that are easy to make with the kids. We met with the children at Kensington Primary School who told us all about their great new business venture - see how your school could benefit. (pg 6). Look out for our competitions for you and your family: A family ticket for 4 to see Glam! The Performance of Style at Tate Liverpool with a lunch for 4 at What's Cooking? (pg 26), a family offpeak ticket with the Yellow Duckmarine (pg 34), a family ticket for City sightseeing Liverpool and our friends at Dawsons are at it again … they have 500 recorders to give away (pg 14). If all that wasn’t enough, mention Kids Direct and get 10% off St John’s Beacon Tower, the home of Radio City 96.7 (pg 31) and look out for 5 free ride vouchers at Southport Pleasureland (pg 35).
Spring 2013
We are back in the summer. In the meantime, come and join us on facebook and twitter for lots more offers, family friendly events and fun. Have a fabulous Easter.
Anna x
Win a family weekend in a Wigwam! (page 23)
Yummy Easter Recipes (page 13)
Munki has a message for you to take to Dawsons Liverpool Store (page 14) Meet the Kids in BusinessKensington Primary ‘s Joga Leaders. (page 6)
Kids Direct is owned by Megan Kneale. Registered trademark no. 1468409. Kids Direct Liverpool is a franchise owned, operated & published under licence by Anna Taylor. We believe all information to be correct but do not endorse any products or services. The views expressed in Kids Direct are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot be held responsible for any breach of copyright arising from artwork supplied by its contributors and clients. Reproduction, in whole or in part, of any of the text, illustrations or photography without the express permission of the publisher is strictly forbidden. Competitions: Prize winners will be drawn at random, no cash alternatives will be offered. Personal information will not be shared with organisations external to Kids Direct unless a third party is issuing the prize.
To advertise in Kids Direct email: anna@kidsdirect.org
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Education & Childcare
Spring 2013
Planning for a better future for you and your family is never easy by yourself. The path to achieving your goals isn't always obvious. That's why you can find your own friendly expert adviser at Reed in Partnership. Whether you want to find a job, learn computer skills, take a training course, get help with your housing or debt, or need support in any other way – Reed in Partnership can help. When Janet went to her local Reed in Partnership she was nervous, under-confident and hadn't had a job in 27 years. After concentrating on her family for so long Janet had developed health problems and was struggling to make the most of life. She met her Adviser Lian and they clicked on day one. Lian helped Janet to complete two courses and helped her improve her CV. Janet then decided to apply for a job at a local supermarket. With the support of Lian she aced the interview and is over the moon with her new job and her new confidence. She says: "If I could give anyone advice I would recommend you take up this opportunity. What have you got to lose? Nothing… but you will have a lot to gain. So go on, be brave and give it a go!” Call Reed in Partnership today on 0151 559 1958 and find out how you can improve your future.
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Education & Childcare
Spring 2013
Kidilates is a physio created, pilates inspired movement and postural programme designed for primary aged children.
more risks these days to developing bad posture including increased use of mobile devices and not forgetting the increased and rising levels of obesity in children today. It makes sense to teach movement The programme was created by Managing well from an early age.� Director of The Physiotherapy Centre Sarah Johnson. The Physiotherapy Centre Kidilates is a fun class suitable for the is a leading provider of health care and majority of children, including children injury rehabilitation in the North West. diagnosed with movement disorders. It is Sarah reports “I was inspired to create a suitable for children looking to start gentle class for children with a strong focus on exercise, or children who already exercise posture and core strength, by the number regularly but want to improve on a of adults who attend for treatment at the particular sporting ability e.g. swimming. clinic with postural related problems. Although not all conditions are caused by If you would like to register your interest bad posture, it certainly helps recovery in the programme or sign your child up to when clients have good body awareness Kidilates sessions currently available in and core strength. Good posture should Mossley Hill, please call 0151 724 2060 or be encouraged at an early age. There are email info@thephysiotherapycentre.com To advertise in Kids Direct email: anna@kidsdirect.org
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Education & Childcare
The children at Kensington Primary School have entered the Head for Business competition run by Liverpool Vision, encouraging schools to create and run viable businesses whilst giving them the skills to become future entrepreneurs. The children on their ‘Head for Business’ team have developed their existing play leader programme into a business and have created JOGA Leaders. The children say that JOGA Leaders organise and run games and activities in the playground, while at the same time learning valuable life skills such as completing a CV and attending an interview, all part of the JOGA Leader recruitment process. Their schools lunch hours are filled with activities such as Dodgeball, Street Football and Cheerleading. Saqer Saleh and Shahnoor Ali explained how JOGA Leaders can help reduce the potential for bullying and encourage children to get involved in new sports and activities. “I think because its children helping other children, that makes it cooler. All the children in our school look up
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Spring 2013
to JOGA Leaders because they know how hard we work and that we are always fair when dealing with problems” said Saqer. Fatoumata Faye spoke about the team’s idea to get JOGA Leaders recruited in other schools. “We did a lot of research and found that children are spending less and less time playing outside of school. That’s why we think playtimes in school are important because that’s how children learn to get on with each other.” Saqer Saleh added, “We hope other schools will buy our product to help them make their playtimes better, and we can then use that money to help children in schools in Brazil, which is where the name JOGA comes from, and it means‘play’”. If you would like to introduce Joga Leaders to your school, Please see their new website for lots more information and to buy their fantastic leader packs which include T-Shirts, ID Cards, whistles, game cards, recruitment packs and a training pack. www.jogaleaders.com.
www.kidsdirectliverpool.com
Kids Direct Liverpool
Education & Childcare
Spring 2013
L18 Tuition offers private tuition and assessment services in 11+ Entrance Exams, GCSE and A-Level Psychology, Degree level assignments and Dissertations, and also offers Dyslexia assessments and support services. L18 Tuition is based in the Calderstones area and operates from a purpose-built comfortable tuition room. L18 tuition is managed by Ange, an experienced Teacher and University Lecturer with 12 years of teaching experience across mainstream and special needs schools and the university sector. Ange is fully CRB checked and takes a student centred approach in her tutoring. A busy mum of 3, she knows how important your children's education is to you. For further information call Ange on 07834 491 975. Business Chinese Solutions/Mystic Monkey Chinese Education is currently in 28 schools across Liverpool, delivering Mandarin lessons, after school clubs, workshops and international programs as well as working closely with Liverpool Local Education Authority to provide children in the North West with engaging Chinese cultural experiences. Their holiday camp provides exciting, interesting, educational & creative activities, making Chinese camp a great option for fun and cultural learning. All their staff love China & Chinese and are excited to share their interest and enthusiasm. All are welcome from 7-12 years of age. For more information or to book, call Toni on 07980 123948, visit www.mysticmonkeyquest.co.uk, email toni@businesschinesesolutions.co.uk. To advertise in Kids Direct email: anna@kidsdirect.org
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Education & Childcare
HOMES NEEDED FOR FRENCH CHILDREN A group of French children 14 - 17 yrs are coming to South Liverpool in July for a 13 day visit to learn English. Groups will be arriving July 4�� – 17�� and July 18�� – 31��. Live and Learn Abroad are desperately looking for friendly families to welcome a young French girl or boy into their home. They still have students without homes. Have you a spare bed or beds in your home? Some students come over and want to be the only student in the home but many come and want to be hosted with a friend. The students have all been learning English for several years and are able to communicate effectively. The whole aim of the holiday is to improve their speaking of English and to allow them to experience
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Spring 2013
English Culture. The students are out at organised activities all day Mon – Sat and are expected to join into family activities during the evenings and one day of the weekend. All students have travel passes and will be able to get to and from teaching locations after a little initial help. The majority of students will be having their lessons at the I.M.Marsh campus, Barkhill Rd, Aigburth. This contact with a French teenager can give them and your family, help with speaking a foreign language, but can also lead to lasting friendships. Each family will receive £182 hospitality fee for the 13 nights per student. Anyone who would like to help by hosting a French student please contact Jenny Rowland on 0151 336 1694 . www.kidsdirectliverpool.com
Kids Direct Liverpool
Education & Parties
Spring 2013
National Wildflower Centre Bushcraft Birthday Parties! How about a party in the Woods? Elves and Fairies; enter the enchanted woods to find out about fairies and elves. Bushcraft Party; Den making, fire lighting, even make a bow and arrow! For further details visit www.myoutdoorclassroom.co.uk, or email myoutdoorclassroom@live.com Craft Creative Events offer inspired creative parties for kids aged 4 years an over in the North West and in Scotland. Their parties are bespoke and tailor made to suit your child’s passions and your budget! They can also create amazing parties based around a theme. With popular themes including Princess Parties, Private Parties, Little Monster Parties, Space Parties, Disney Parties, Peppa Pig, Hello Kitty and Lego parties to name just a few. They offer a whole host of services to help you create the perfect party for your child. They are happy to come you or provide a venue. So, do tell them your party needs and they will deliver! Contact them on 0151 203 2409 or email: hello@thecraftcreative.com for the perfect creative party. To advertise in Kids Direct email: anna@kidsdirect.org
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Parties
For lots of fun in a safe environment, where parents can relax whilst the kids safely run wild visit Funtown. They offer a wide range of indoor play activities for children from 0 - 12, with something for everyone! There are fabulous slides, a ball pool, specially constructed climbing areas, and even a dedicated toddler area. Their cafe has been awarded 5 stars for food hygiene by the local council and offers everything from a quick snack to a hearty hot meal and overlooks the play area so parents can relax and enjoy a cuppa whilst keeping an eye on their children. Their in-house team of chefs prepare delicious, healthy food on the premises so you can rest assured that your family is eating good food of the highest quality. Funtown is available for parties and can cater for up to 45
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Spring 2013
children at a time. As well as the play time fun and the great food and drink, the children can be greeted by one of Funtown's many great characters who will ensure everyone is enjoying the party. A party for 10 children costs as little as £75 and summer season tickets are now on sale. Early bird offer: only £20 for first child and £12 for each additional sibling, if purchased before 31/05/13. Funtown is open every day from 9.30am until 6pm. So, for guaranteed fun ,pay a visit to Funtown - you'll never want to leave! Call 0844 567 9677 or visit www.funtownliverpool.co.uk. www.kidsdirectliverpool.com
Kids Direct Liverpool
Parties
Spring 2013
beadybeady provide fabulous children’s parties in your own home or venue. Parties cost from £9.50 per child to make 5 items each. Discounts apply to parties of over 20 and parties must have a minimum of 8 children. Suitable for 6 years & older including teens. Parties last approximately 1 ½ hours. All materials are provided plus a sparkly party bag. There is also a deluxe party package for £13 with a minimum of 7 children. beadybeady are reliable and established since 2006 with all staff fully CRB checked. beadybeady also provide workshops for rainbows, brownies, guides, dance & drama groups at an amazing £4.50 per child to make 4 items each. Ideal also for PTA events such as school fairs. See online shop for jewellery and beads for sale. For more details contact 0151 639 1505 or visit www.beadybeady.co.uk . Would you like a FUN packed memorable party? The Creepy Crawly Show is enjoyable for all ages and great for home parties, children's birthdays, christenings, holy communions and other family celebrations . Everyone can join in from toddlers to teens and the adults are entertained too. From party games, music to ‘Get Me Out of Here’ style challenges and don’t forget the animals, with snakes, tarantula, scorpion, lizards, giant African snails, hissing cockroaches, turtles and many more. It offers great photo opportunities and is all presented by their comical ‘Explorer’ style entertainer who’ll ensure your occasion is a fun and memorable one. Available throughout Merseyside, Wirral & Cheshire. Book your adventure now: 01244 646045 www.thecreepycrawlyshow.co.uk To advertise in Kids Direct email: anna@kidsdirect.org
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Parties
Spring 2013
Softplay4tots is a mobile soft play hire for 0 - 6 year olds. They are based in Liverpool and serve Merseyside, Wirral, Cheshire, Lancashire, North Wales and further afield upon request. They specialise in providing professional soft play equipment, indoor or outdoor, on a fully matted area. Whatever the occasion they can provide the fun. They deliver the equipment, set up and take away afterwards. Ideal for children's birthday parties, weddings, christenings and much more. With softplay4tots, children can use their imagination and have a great time in a safe and fun environment. Parents/carers are always looking for an alternative to the traditional party or event and can feel that some children's play areas are too grown up or even too scary for their little ones. Softplay4tots is a safe and fun way for your little ones to enjoy any occasion without that worry. You can relax and enjoy watching the children play knowing they wont hurt themselves. From the ever popular 2 meter circular ball pool to their range of exciting shapes to climb on, slide down and explore; tots can be guaranteed a fun time and parents a stress free party. Their softplay equipment is clean and well maintained. They also offer a range of extras such as toddlers bouncy castle, dressing up trolley, gazebo etc‌ to compliment your occasion. To find out more, please call Helen on 0151 487 3765 or 07423 015956 or check out their website www.softplay4tots.com.
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Yummy Recipes
Spring 2013
A light & refreshing dessert that’s simplicity itself. You can easily swap the digestives for Bourbons, Hobnobs or Oreos & use limes or oranges instead of lemons. For a more adult version slip in 1-2 table spoons of a fruit liqueur like Cointreau.
Method:Start by making the biscuit base. Melt the butter in a pan and add the crushed biscuits, mix well and press the mixture into the base of 7� loose bottomed cake tin, or individual dishes. Leave to rest in the fridge. Meanwhile, beat together the mascarpone, icing sugar, zest and lemon juice in a bowl. Spread this mixture on top of your biscuit base and return to the fridge for 30 minutes to set. Once set, remove the cheesecake from the tin and decorate with chocolate eggs.
These chocolate nests are a perfect to enjoy at Easter. Quick and simple to make! Method: Place the butter into a medium microwaveable bowl, add the cocoa powder, milk chocolate and golden syrup. Microwave on high for approximately 1 minute 30 seconds or until melted. Stir to mix everything together. Hold 1 Shredded Wheat over the bowl and squeeze in your hand to crumble it in. Repeat with the other 3 Shredded Wheat and stir to mix evenly. Line the bun tin with the cup cake cases and put a generous tablespoonful of the mixture into each case. Press the centre of each nest with your fingers to make a slight dip and then arrange 3 mini eggs in each of the nests. Chill for Yummy! 30 minutes before eating.
Yummy
To advertise in Kids Direct email: anna@kidsdirect.org
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Music, Drama & Dance
Spring 2013
Little Actors Theatre Company is a social enterprise offering performing arts activities for children aged 2½ - 11. A grant from the John Thaw Foundation enables them to offer discounts to low income families. Based in the L15 area, they are offering DramaTots for preschool children and their parent/carers with singing, dance and drama and Theatre Club for ages 5-11 with two hours of drama and musical theatre. All facilitators are professionally trained and experienced actors. Participating in the performing arts improves health and well being and also builds children's confidence, communication skills and self-esteem. For further details contact Samantha Giblin on 0151 336 4302, email: mail@littleactorstheatre.com or visit www.littleactorstheatre.com.
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Celebrity Interview
Spring 2013
Kids Direct interview Paul O’Grady Kids Direct catch up with one of Merseyside’s most famous sons, Paul O’Grady, born in 1955 in Birkenhead. You base your character Lily Savage on the women you grew up around, why do you think she struck a chord with people of all ages and backgrounds? “Lily was always a cartoon character, down to earth and people loved her and I found if you were dressed up as a woman, were matronly and very much for the underdog, it helped.” Many of our readers would like a career in show business, what advice would you give them? “DON’T! No actually, i’d say go for it, but leave things like X Factor alone. I think you are there to be laughed at a lot of the time. Go to a good drama school, enjoy yourself and learn your craft. If you’ve got a good singing voice then learn to use it. I think I would have loved that and I missed out there.” As well as going to school in Merseyside, you worked in West Kirby residential school, what was that like? “I did 3 years there starting when I was 18. I worked 14 hours a day and was in charge of 18 children with all sorts of different disabilities but I loved working there and that experience really helped when I moved to London because I felt like I could deal with anything after working there.” Do you like playing baddies? You have been quoted as saying I seem to be making a living frightening children! “I love it, I do. I loved being the wicked queen in Snow White but the only villain I didn’t like was the child catcher in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang because it was too scary and the kids were genuinely terrified and I was unhappy playing it.” You are famous for loving animals, how many pets do you have? “I’ve got 3 dogs, a pig whose now 12 and not well, 2 goats, 10 sheep all hand reared as they were all orphans, some chickens, some ducks and a rescue barn owl called Minnie. Don’t believe anything about owls being wise, she’s dead thick.” What was it like being on Dr Who? “I was only in it for 6 seconds but the kids loved it, I was followed round the village by fans just because I’d been in the Tardis!” Paul O’Grady presents his own Radio 2 show every Sunday, 5-7pm. To advertise in Kids Direct email: anna@kidsdirect.org
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Sporting Fun
Liverpool Watersports Centre offers a wide range of watersport activities. Their aim is to open up watersports to the whole community at affordable prices. They provide quality instruction in water and land based activities for adults, children and groups. Lessons can be hourly, half day, full day or as a course and taster sessions are available too. Children will also love celebrating their birthdays at Liverpool Watersports Centre. Parties can be from 1 to 2 hours and includes a choice of activity from kayaking, rafting, canoes, stand up paddleboards, sailing, windsurfing & water rollers. There is a room available to hire where you can bring your own food or alternatively they have great facilities in their coffee bar not to mention its stunning views.
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Spring 2013
For something different, why not book yourself onto one of their Albert Dock Canoe Tours, where you can paddle from the centre in Queens Dock through the South Liverpool Docklands up towards the Albert Dock and return. The tour is taken with one of their instructors who will guide you and tell you about the history of the docks and give you some handy tips on your paddling technique. The staff at Liverpool Watersports Centre are friendly, very experienced and are always happy to help. Contact them on 0151 708 9322 or email them at lwc@localsolutions.org.uk. www.kidsdirectliverpool.com
Kids Direct Liverpool
Sporting Fun
The best way to tell you about Family Martial Arts is by recommendation: “My two children and I attended a free trial held by Family Martial arts. Following the trial my son and daughter aged 7 and 6 decided to start on the basic programme, after completing the programme which they enjoyed immensely, they joined the leadership programme to achieve their black belts. Since starting at Family Martial Arts both Reece and Rhea have not only learnt how to defend themselves, but more importantly they have acquired everyday transferable skills: selfconfidence, self-control, respect, courtesy, perseverance, honesty and have also improved their health and fitness. They have both been truly inspired by Miss Shipley thriving to achieve their own learning aims whilst also taking up the
Spring 2013
challenge of training to become junior instructors and passing on their knowledge and passion for the sport to other young people. Their hard work and dedication is an inspiration and this would not have been achieved without the support of the staff at FMA, I would recommend all parents to seriously consider the benefits of their son or daughter joining the programme and feel as we do, part of a family orientated organisation who continually strive for excellence.� by Julia Clarke, mum to Reece and Rhea. If you would like your children to achieve the many benefits that Family Martial arts has to offer call them on 0800 021 3119 or visit their website for details: www.martialarts4everyone.co.uk.
To advertise in Kids Direct email: anna@kidsdirect.org
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Kids Direct Calendar Every Saturday, Drop-in activities for all the family at The Bluecoat. 1-4pm. 0151 709 4014 for reservations or email crafts@bluecoatdisplaycentre.com. Every Sunday, Miniature railway at Calderstones park. 12-4 pm. The Railway is on the west side of the park, by the Harthill Road entrance (weather permitting). FREE. 20�� March to 8�� December. 50 things to do before your 11 & ¾, Speke Hall. Join their ”50 Things” campaign and get outdoors and back to nature with popular childhood pastimes. 0151 427 7231. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/spekehall.
29�� March to 1�� April, Easter Egg Hunt, Church Farm. Meet the Easter bunny and enjoy games, puzzles and ride on a tractor too. Pre book tickets: 0151 648 7838, www.churchfarm.org.uk. (See page 32). 29�� to 31�� March, Easter Crafts, Walker Art Gallery. Drop in from 1-4 pm. Lots of Easter themed arts, crafts and fun. For more details visit: www.liverpoolmusuems.org.uk . FREE. 29�� March, Easter Party, David Lloyd Leisure Speke. Easter games, arts & crafts. Non-members welcome. 0151 494 4000 FREE.
23�� March to 14�� April. Easter Fun, Martin Mere. Easter has a treasure theme at Martin Mere and a lovely Duck hunt on Easter Sunday. 01704 895181 wwt.org.uk/martinmere (see page 30).
29�� March to 1�� April, Mad Museum hatters parade! Museum of Liverpool. Take a look at hats in history and make your own for a grand bonnet parade around the museum at 4pm. www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk FREE.
27�� March, There be Pirates! Merseyside Maritime Museum. 1-4 pm. A fun filled pirate themed craft workshop for the whole family. Drop in. www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk. FREE.
31�� March & 1�� April Cadbury’s Easter Egg Trail, Speke Hall. Follow the clues and solve puzzles to win an Easter egg. For more details call 0151 427 7231. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/speke-hall.
27�� & 28�� March, Crafty Easter Cards, Lady Lever Art Gallery. 1-4pm. Use a variety of collage materials to make colourful Easter cards. For more details visit www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk. FREE.
3��, 4�� & 5�� April, Easter Bonnet making, Speke Hall. Followed by Easter Bonnet parade at 4pm. 0151 427 7231. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/speke-hall.
27�� March to 7�� April, Moscow State Circus, Sefton Park. A spectacular show combining contemporary and classical circus with talented circus artistes from Russia. Information line 07721 56 55 58 wwww.moscowstatecircus.com.
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4�� April, BBC Worldwide presents Justin & Friends. Echo Arena Liverpool. Great fun with Justin Fletcher of CBeebies fame. For tickets call box office on 0844 8000 400 or visit www.echoarena.com. 3�� April-5�� April Chinese Camp. Holiday camp with great Chinese
Kids Direct Calendar activities. Fun & learning all in one. Booking essential. See page 7 for lots more details. 07980 123948. 5�� April and every Friday, Family Fun Fridays, David Lloyd Leisure Speke. A fun-filled evening of activities. Nonmembers welcome. Free event & kids buffet available at £3.95. 0151 494 4000. 13�� & 14�� April, Pirates Weekend, World Museum. Drop in 1-4 pm. Make your own pirate costume and lots more. www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk. FREE. 28�� April Disney Party, David Lloyd Leisure Speke. Dress up and join the Disney themed games, crafts & lots more. Non-members welcome. 0151 494 4000. FREE. 1�� to 2ⁿ� May Finalist challenge and Winners announcement for schools participating in the Head for Business competition (see page 6). 5�� & 6�� May, Tudor May Day Festival, Speke Hall. See how the Tudor’s lived, worked and played at this festival with food, music and entertainment. For more details call 0151 427 7231 or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/speke-hall. 9�� to 11�� May, Spot’s Birthday Party, Liverpool Playhouse. Celebrating the birthday of everyone’s favourite puppy and his friends. For tickets call the box office on 0151 709 4776 or visit www.everymanplayhouse.com. 11�� May, Picnic in the Park Community fun day in Cherry Lane Playing fields. www.liverpool.gov.uk. 17�� May, Grand re-opening Liverpool Central Library. Long
of
awaited and promises to be spectacular. 17�� May, Light Night Festival, Various Venues. A festival of Liverpool’s arts and culture showcased in 1 night. 4pm till late. Visit www.lightnightliverpool.co.uk 18�� May, Mab’s Magical Fair, 12-4pm. A family afternoon of woodland crafts for Elves and Fairies of all ages (see page 29 for more details). FREE. 19�� May, Festival of Sport in Newsham Park. Sports demonstrations and taster sessions for families to try. www.liverpool.gov.uk 22ⁿ� to 26�� May, Walking with Dinosaurs, Echo Arena Liverpool. A stunning theatrical event for the whole family. For tickets call 0844 8000 400 or visit www.echoarena.com. 25�� May to 2ⁿ� June Downy Duckling Week, Martin Mere. Visit the duckling nursery and see the whole experience from egg to duckling. 01704 895181 wwt.org.uk/martinmere (See page 30). 25�� May to 9�� June, 3 special Maritime weekends on Liverpool’s Waterfront. Visit www.visitliverpool.com for more details. 8�� July, Summer issue of Kids Direct. If you wish to advertise please email anna@kidsdirect.org, call 07980 304998 or visit www.kidsdirectliverpool.com. Please note: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, details may change. Please ohone the venue concerned or visit their website to check dates, times, prices and if booking is required before setting out.
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Sporting Fun
Spring 2013
The All Star Wrestling School offers tremendous opportunities for new recruits to follow in the footsteps of today's WWE superstars such as Sheamus, Dave Finlay, William Regal, and many more who all came through the ranks to first make their mark in All Star rings. Now in its 6th year, the All Star School operates every Saturday, 10am to 4pm at Bebington Civic Centre with boys and girls aged from 8 years offered the chance to start living their dream with personal training in a 16 sq. ft. ring from some of Britain's bestknown wrestling talent. The Wrestling School also runs popular children's parties with two hours of non-stop fun, visits by guest wrestling stars and use of a 16ft square inflatable ring. For more details call 07738 330 316. David Lloyd Leisure Speke have lots to offer families with their excellent family friendly facility. As well as their great gym and sports facilities, they have excellent crèche facilities and a restaurant/bar area. Their staff are friendly, knowledgeable and happy to help. They also offer lots of fun activities for members and non members, including Family Fun Fridays, held every Friday from 4.45-7.00 pm with board games, colouring arts and crafts and football. A kids buffet is also available during this time priced at £3.95. Their Kids team will also be hosting an Easter Party and Disney party this spring. For more details or to arrange a visit call them on 0151 494 4000 or visit www.davidlloyd.co.uk.
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Just For Fun
To advertise in Kids Direct email: anna@kidsdirect.org
Spring 2013
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Kids Direct Liverpool
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Feature
Spring 2013
www.kidsdirectliverpool.com
Kids Direct Liverpool
Competition
Kids can be busy bees at Humble Bee Farm! If you’d love to stay for free in a cosy wooden camping cabin in the country where the kids can run about and play in the fresh air and even collect their own newly laid egg for breakfast then hurry and enter their free competition above!
The winners will get 2 nights in a heated wooden Wigwam for up to 5 people at the Humble Bee Wigwam Holiday site near Scarborough in North Yorkshire. There’s a great children’s play area complete with fireman’s pole –
Spring 2013
plus farm walks and lots of farm yard animals to make friends with. It’s a great experience for youngsters of life on a working farm. You can even bring the family dog with you! Humble Bee also holds special cowboys and Indians weekends and wildlife events as well as live calving and lambing weekends in the Spring. Sandy beaches with exciting cliffs and lots of different seabirds to spot are also close by and on a night you can have your own camp fire under the stars right outside your Wigwam. So what are you waiting for? Get your competition entry in by May 1�� Humble Bee Farm is part of a network of Wigwam Holiday sites in over 50 beautiful locations. To find out lots more, check their website at www.wigwamholidays.com/humble_bee _wigwams.
To advertise in Kids Direct email: anna@kidsdirect.org
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Feature
Spring 2013
As a mother of two children and a qualified Dietitian for over 10 years, if I got given a pound for every time I heard those words I could retire! Fruit and vegetables have long been identified as having beneficial properties in preventing certain diseases i.e. obesity, high cholesterol and constipation to name a few. Fruit and vegetables contain vitamins, minerals and fibre that the body needs to help maintain a healthy balance. Unfortunately, vegetables can turn out to be children’s and adults least favourite food. The Department of Health recommends 5 portions of fruit and vegetables daily. 1 portion is: · 2-3 tablespoons of vegetables. · 1 piece of fruit i.e. apple, orange. · A small bowl of salad. · 1 handful of grapes, strawberries or other berries. For more portion ideas see www.nhs.uk/Livewell/5ADAY/Pages/Portionsizes.aspx So how can we get the family to start saying “I like them!” Here are a few simple ideas for VEGETABLES...
V ariety E stablish
is very important, try not to stick to carrots and peas, think of all the vegetables starting with A Ackee, Artichoke, Aubergine, to T tomato. The majority of vegetables are available all year round now, fresh or frozen, and not just in season so trial some different vegetables. vegetables/salad at each evening meal. Remember that we have to taste something at least 10 times for us to like a flavour; hence this is a good routine to follow for our taste buds and health. Here are some meal ideas with veggies included: Fish fingers, oven chips with green beans & carrots Risotto rice with peas Chicken curry with a tin of chick peas added serve with rice Sausages, mashed potato, roasted parsnips & butternut squash and gravy Chicken breast grilled with potato wedges, salsa sauce, corn on the cob and baked beans. Pasta & cauliflower or broccoli cheese bake Takeaway curry- try a side order of Saag Aloo- spinach & potato or Aloo Gobi- potato & cauliflower.
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the following for a change to your green salad, around 5-6 portions in this salad 1 raw carrot, half a raw celeriac, half a cucumber, 1 pear. - If you don’t like a vegetable yourself try not to show your child your dislike, let them make up their own minds. Don’t cajole bribe or push your child to try different vegetables, battles over food will only make situations worse. Remember that mealtimes are not just for nourishment but in our busy lifestyles they are a chance for the family to get together. If mealtimes are becoming frustrating (believe me my husband and I have been there!) try to put things into perspective and keep calm, if your children won’t try the vegetables today, tomorrow is another day! Patience and persistence is the key. omatoes are a great versatile… fruit actually, but as we use them more in savoury foods they are included. Raw tomatoes with a salad. Grilled tomatoes on your beef burger. Tomato puree on your pizza base. Tinned tomatoes with a breakfast i.e. with grilled bacon, scrambled egg and toast.
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Feature
Spring 2013
Tinned tomatoes with a breakfast i.e. with grilled bacon, scrambled egg and toast. Sun dried tomatoes mixed into a rice kedgeree or risotto. Italian tomato sauce made with tinned or fresh tomatoes (see Italian bolognese recipe). Tomato or minestrone soup.
A dd
vegetables to make the base of a fantastic tasty Italian bolognese sauce. And no one will ever see a vegetable! If you are working the next day get the veg and meat prepared the night before and a slow cooker is a wise investment. Around 6-8 portions of vegetables in this dish. 1 raw carrot, 1 raw courgette, 1 red pepper, 1 onion, 3 garlic cloves. ● Chop all of the above into small pieces (an electric chopper is very time saving). ● Fry the veg for 10 minutes with a splash of olive oil. ● Transfer the cooked veggies into a large pan with a lid or a slow cooker. ● Fry your beef or pork mince in the same pan and for more flavour add 3 rashes of bacon chopped up (optional). ● Transfer the browned meat to the large pan with the veggies then add 1-2 tins of tomatoes. ● Add one chicken stock cube, a pinch of paprika, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano or basil and season with salt & pepper. If you need more fluid add a drop of water. ● Mix together well and cook on low for at least 2-6 hours or better still put your slow cooker on first thing and it will be ready when you get home from work. ● Serve with pasta/rice or jacket potato.
B eans
and lentils are great and versatile and they contain high amounts of fibre. Here are some ideas for beans/lentils to be added into your cooking. Chicken fajita mix with wraps, add a tin of mixed beans into the mix. Next time you have a takeaway curry try one of the lentil dishes called dhals i.e. Tarka dahl Baked beans on toast Red kidney beans in a chili-con-carne Bolotti beans added into stews or casseroles Pearl barley added into a chicken or steak pie sauce.
Light
up your family meals with a range of recipes that are quick, nutritious, and easy to make. We all have a list of meals that we cook in the week and have perfected so that the family enjoys. My favourite chefs are Nigella Lawson who is great for working parents as it cuts corners without impairingtaste. Jamie Oliver is a true lover of vegetables and fruit and the majority of his meals are based around these. Check out websites for “free recipes” or look for the free recipe cards in your supermarket.
E at
up your vegetables in front of the kids. A lot of adults who don’t like vegetables often can trace back their dislike from their childhood. They may have been forced to eat them and thus created bad experiences of vegetables. This is not the way to get children eating veg and can result in food aversion to vegetables, if carried on throughout adulthood can increase the risk of developing diseases. Children copy role models and if you can overcome your dislike of vegetables, then your children can see that they are part of a healthy balanced meal and not something to be avoided.
tews, soups and stir-frys are a great way of utilizing your vegetables. Fresh, frozen, tinned and dried veg all counts to your portion requirements. Fresh- broccoli, carrots, sugar snap peas, baby sweetcorn, onions, peppers. Frozen- corn on the cob, roasted peppers, roasted parsnips, mixed vegetables, peas, green beans. Tinned- beans, mushy peas, chick-peas. Dried- mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes. Get experimenting with veggies! If you would like to discuss your diet with a registered Dietitian then please discuss this with your Doctor GP. Our thanks to Claire Chaudhry for providing the information for this fea-
S
ture. Claire is employed in the NHS as a Community Dietitian based in Wrexham/Flintshire, her special interests are Diabetes, Obesity and Healthy eating.
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Great Days Out
Spring 2013
Advertise With Kids Direct Liverpool ●
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● Distributed through primary schools, libraries and health centres.
Email:anna@kidsdirect.org Call: 07980 304498 www.kidsdirectliverpool.com Areas covered: Aigburth, Allerton, Anfield, Belle Vale,Bowring Park, Broadgreen, Childwall, City Centre, Clubmoor, Croxteth Park, Dingle, Dovecot, Edge Hill, Fairfield, Gateacre, Hale, Halewood, Hunts Cross, Huyton, Kensington, Knotty Ash, Knowsley Village, Netherley, Old Swan, Page Moss, Prescot, Rainhill, Roby, Sefton Park, Speke, St Michael's Hamlet, Stockbridge Village, Stoneycroft, Tarbock, Tuebrook, Wavertree, West Derby, Whiston & Woolton.
Kids Direct also publish in Wirral, Chester, Warrington and North Wales.
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Great Days Out
Church Farm is a fantastic day out for all the family. There are lots of friendly animals to meet, a fun play area with go-karts, maze and swings and a farm walk with beautiful views over the River Dee and North Wales. At weekends and holidays, join in with tractor rides, pat-a-pet and animal feeding, plus the new barrel train! The Easter Egg Hunt is on from 29�� March till 1�� April. Ride on the tractor up to the Church Farm forest, where all the family must work together to play hook-a-duck,
Spring 2013
basketball dunk and lots more games of skill to find the eggs and solve the Easter puzzle. Then meet the friendly Easter Bunny who’ll reward the kids with chocolate! Tickets must be pre-booked on 0151 648 7838 or online at www.churchfarm.org.uk. Book a children’s party or a school visit; you’ll meet all the animals and help harvest the organic fruit and vegetables. You can even take some produce home with you. The farm shop stocks a variety of homegrown, locally-produced and luxury food and the cosy Munch coffee shop is a lovely place to sit with a posh coffee, cake or light lunch. Church Farm is open Wed-Sun 10am-5pm, www.churchfarm.org.uk.
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Book Review
Spring 2013
0-4 Years
Noisy Robots by Usborne Fun and interactive, this book is full of beeping, buzzing and clankingly adventurous robots. With a sound panel of 8 robotic sounds. Little hands won’t be able to resist the colourful pictures. From futuristic rocket robots to little speed racers, ones with squeaky wheels to clunky clinky time keepers, this is truly a fun interactive book. Peepo by Janet and Allan Ahlberg A classic that all the family will love ”he BEST book EVER published for babies” with funny rhymes and beautiful pictures a funny story through a baby’s eyes, With sights and sounds, tears and tantrums. "Here's little baby, one, two, three stands in his cot, what does he see? PEEPO!"
5-8 Years I am not a loser by Barry Loser, spellchecked by Jim Smith Twice as good & twice as funny as A Diary of a wimpy kid. This is a madcap must-read. It is the first of 3 notebooks belonging to Barry Loser. Follow Barry as he tries to throw off his loserness, take revenge on the terrible Fronkle-burping Darren Darrenofski & finally become a winner. If you liked wimpy kid you'll love this. James and the giant peach by Roald Dahl A Dahl classic and one of my personal favourites the strange adventures of a young boy with no friends and who lost his parents after they were eaten by a rhinoceros, now has to go live with his repulsive aunts. He finds himself on a very strange adventure inside a giant peach with some very peculiar characters, a great adventure story which warms the heart.
8-11 Years Beautiful creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl Is falling in love the beginning or the end? There is a girl. A girl with so much power and so many secrets. There is a curse. On the sixteenth moon on the sixteenth year, something paranormal will happen which will change the fates forever, but will it be her or the dark secrets she hides? Queenie by Jacqueline Wilson The fantastic new novel from this best selling author and greatly anticipated. This fantastic book does not disappoint and is full of Wilson’s flare. Set in the children's ward of a 1950's hospital. "I don’t like it here one little bit. The boy in the next bed is horrid and nurse Patterson has really got it in for me, thank goodness for Queenie, the most beautiful hospital cat in the world, she is my very best friend on the children's ward." Book review by Melissa McClean, Waterstones Liverpool One
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Great Days Out
Spring 2013
Young wizards, sprites, elves and fairies! Get it in the diary now so as not to miss You’re invited to Mab’s Magical Fair, a out! Visit www.mablane.com to find out free outdoor festival for boys, girls and more about this great day out! their families. Come along dressed up, or join the secret Forest School in the woods to create your own crown, wand and wings from natural materials. Enjoy enchanted storytelling, marshmallows and crafts around the fire, spectacular face painting and lots more. This free event takes place on Saturday 18�� May 2013 at Mab Lane Community Woodland in West Derby, Liverpool. It is organised by The Mersey Forest in partnership with Liverpool City Council and Riverside Berrybridge as part of Access to Nature, a national scheme run by Natural England and funded by the Big Lottery Fund. To advertise in Kids Direct email: anna@kidsdirect.org
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Great Days Out
Spring is a great time of year to visit WWT Martin Mere. With new life hatching all around the centre you can see goslings, ducklings, cygnets and even flamingo chicks when they hatch in Spring. The centre has a brand new adventure play area that opened in 2012 as well as den building, pond dipping, boat tours, hand feeding birds and plenty of fun family crafts and activities for the whole family to enjoy on a day out. Every Thursday during term time is ‘Toddler Thursday’ a day aimed specifically for children aged 4 and under. There are story time sessions at 10.30am
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Spring 2013
and 1.30pm, toddler crafts, toddler boat tours and even a special offer in the cafe: buy one adult hot meal and get a child’s hot meal for free. Each week there are new activities for toddlers to enjoy so you and your child can enjoy being around nature all year round. For more details telephone: 01704 895181 or visit wwt.org.uk/martinmere.
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Great Days Out
Spring 2013
Standing almost 500 feet above the heart of Liverpool city centre, St John’s Beacon, home to multi-award winning radio station Radio City 96.7, offers unrivalled 360 degree panoramic views of Merseyside, Cheshire and the Wirral peninsula. On clearer days you can even see Snowdonia and Blackpool Tower. Originally designed as a ventilation shaft for the St John’s market development, the beacon became famously known as a revolving restaurant in the 1970’s. After a brief stint as a Buck Rogers themed restaurant in 1983 the beacon was mothballed until Radio City took over the tenancy, moving from Stanley Street which had been the station’s home for over 25 years. Finally, the iconic tower was given a new lease of life. Having received the keys in 1998, the radio station began broadcasting from its new home in July 2000 following an 18 month, multi-million pound renovation programme. The beacon is now open to the public 7 days a week from 11am until 6pm including bank holidays. At weekends visitors can enjoy refreshments in our very own Café Vista with stunning views of Liverpool’s historic waterfront. Prices are just £5 for adults, £4 for students/seniors and accompanied children aged 5 and above just £3. We are also delighted to offer readers of Kids Direct a discount of 10% when they mention this advert. For further details please visit www.liverpooltowertours.com or email gallery@radiocity.co.uk We very much look forward to seeing you soon at one of the UK’s premier tourist attractions. To advertise in Kids Direct email: anna@kidsdirect.org
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Kids Direct Liverpool
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Eating Out with the Kids
Spring 2013
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Services for Parents
Spring 2013
Busy Bees Maid Service is a professional Domestic Cleaning Company run by Karen and Brian Tattum. They have 3 boys, aged 15, 7 and 5. Having three children and balancing work was a constant struggle so they decided to do something that meant they had more flexibility with their children while also providing a reliable income. Running their own business has meant that as a team, they can always put their children first while maintaining a professionally run and successful business. Running a busy household, Karen and Brian understand how important their service is, and have developed a consistently reliable, high quality service. Busy Bees ensures its customers’ needs are met by remaining flexible and listening to them, making every clean bespoke for every customer. Their service is based on the philosophy that using a cleaning company should be a positive experience that enriches your life. Busy Bees caters for a wide variety of customers from all walks of life and have an enviable reputation for consistency and reliability, backed by being the only cleaning company in the area with Safe Trader status from Trading Standards. They fully train and check all of their staff and monitor their progress, while also encouraging their customers feedback. A clean and tidy home is a healthier and happier home. Busy Bees are happy to help you free your time to spend with your family, rather than doing the cleaning. For more information, call Busy Bees on 0151 639 6399 to discuss your requirements, without obligation. To advertise in Kids Direct email: anna@kidsdirect.org
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Services for Parents
Spring 2013
Verabella Boutique is a gorgeous family run boutique in the heart of Liverpool. Named after their daughters and meaning ‘Summer Beauty’, they stock children's designer clothes and accessories for boys and girls aged from 0-12. Their aim is to bring quality designerwear to children at affordable prices. They pride themselves on giving outstanding customer service and have a global customer following. Verabella boutique was set up from home and has flourished into an amazing family run business. Their customers are their number one priority and they go out of their way to help you find the perfect outfit for your child. So, for outstanding service and great designerwear visit Verabella Boutique, Norton Street, Liverpool, L3 8QA Tel: 07861 706250
Kidz Deals offer parents the opportunity to purchase discounted daily deals. They bring great savings on days out, activities, parties and lots more, exclusively for kidz. Kidz Deals are always on the look out for great deals so email them info@kidzdeals.co.uk to find out how you can advertise your business through their website. www.kidzdeals.co.uk.
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Kids Direct Liverpool
Classifieds
Southport Pleasureland – bigger and brighter than ever for 2013! At Southport Pleasureland there’s no entry charge, so you pay only for the rides and amusements you choose and non-riding members pay nothing at all – and that includes the family dog! Rides are from as little as £1 making it one of the best, affordable family fun days out. Clean, bright and bursting with activities for everyone, from tots to teens, mums,
Spring 2013
dads and grandparents. The 32 acre park is home to around 100 rides, cafes, an indoor play area, amusements and bars, an arcade, performance areas and Southport’s premier F1 go-kart track. Battlefield Live offers the region’s premier laser shoot out environment, great fun for anyone from aged seven and above. So, for one of the best family days out, visit Southport Pleasureland. www.southportpleasureland.com
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