Simply Brightlingsea Issue 108

Issue 107

Visit us online at www.johnfowlers.co.uk info@johnfowlers.co.uk

Your Local Brightlingsea Solicitor

01206 302694 | 12 Victoria Place, Brightlingsea, Essex, CO7 0BX

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Cutting Edge Gardening The Rise of the Robot Mower lawnmowers. I roll my eyes at them, but secretly I agree…mowing is BORING!

“Freddie, the lawn needs cutting,” says my husband. Our 16-year-old phone addict glances up, “Ugh. I hate mowing. It’s BORING!” “We agreed it’s your job,” says my husband.

“Wild lawns are in fashion,” counters Freddie, not moving.

“Not round here,” says my husband.

“You do it then,” mutters Freddie, but he slopes off in the direction of the garden.

Robot mowers are gaining popularity as they drop in price. Essentially they operate independently, using sensors to navigate and trim your lawn. They are small, lightweight, and come in all sizes to match all lawns.

Robotic mowers usually make use of a boundary wire installed around your lawn's perimeter to guide their movement. The wire is unobtrusive and is quickly hidden by the grass. Some models use GPS for enhanced navigation flexibility.

They can be managed via mobile apps, allowing you to schedule mowing and ensure even coverage.

Performance and functionality - Robotic mowers efficiently maintain lawn health by cutting frequently but in small amounts, promoting even growth. They can handle slopes and navigate over driveways or paths, especially those with GPS technology. Blades are less prone to damage due to their operational design and are easy and inexpensive to replace.

And in many ways they are also similar to normal lawnmowers in that they need regular maintenance and storage.

Environmental benefits - Robot mowers mulch the grass clippings, which are then recycled back to the lawn as natural fertilizer, enhancing lawn health.

And although they are designed for use on wet grass, it’s best to avoid soaked lawns and they will be less efficient under wet conditions, much like a regular mower.

Operational efficiency - They are economical, typically using about 15 kWh per month.

The robot mower debate is in full flow here. The guys really want one and I have yet to be persuaded (especially by the ‘but they’re so cute’ argument put forward by my daughter). I can feel myself weakening though because… mowing IS boring!

But there are disadvantages: Their fans rave about them citing:

“But it’s BORING,” my husband shouts after him.

Convenience - They operate autonomously, saving you from manual mowing.

Cost - Initial purchase can be high, though they can offer savings long term if you have to pay someone to mow your lawn (like a teenager!)

Later I find them both staring at Freddie’s laptop with our 14-yearold daughter, researching robot

Safety – They’re designed to avoid obstacles and are equipped with safety features like child locks.

Installation – You may need the boundary wire professionally installed.

Robotic mowers are stored in a docking station, typically near a power source at the garden's edge, but should be housed in a garage or shed to protect against severe weather in the winter.

By Jackie Peters

Give Your Time, Enrich Your Life National Volunteer Week 3rd - 9th June Volunteering your spare time isn't just about helping others; it's a gateway to enriching your own life.

Boost Your Personal and Professional Growth - Volunteering offers opportunities to develop new skills and refine existing ones.

Whether it's organizing events, or providing educational or emotional support, each task challenges a volunteer in different ways. They cultivate essential skills such as communication, teamwork, and

problem-solving. Volunteering provides practical experience and demonstrates a commitment to community service, which is attractive to potential employers.

Moreover, it can be a pathway to discovering new passions or even a career change, as it offers the chance to explore different fields without long-term commitments.

Enhance Your Mental Health Multiple studies have shown that volunteering has a positive impact Issue 114

on mental health. It can provide a sense of purpose, which in turn decreases stress and combats depression. The social aspect of volunteering also contributes to its mental health benefits, as it connects you with others who share similar interests.

Strengthen Community Bonds Connecting people and fostering an environment of cooperation and support helps to build stronger communities. It allows individuals

to contribute to their community's growth and resilience, making it a better place for everyone.

Volunteering offers more than just the satisfaction of helping others; it is an enriching journey that nurtures your skills, health, and community connections. Where will you volunteer this month?

By Sarah Davey

To Advertise in Simply Magazine: 01206 233717 F any information or to submit an article or advert contact David Cook: For Call: C 01206 233717 Out Of Office: O 07734 171985 EEmail: SimplyColchester@gmail.com Head Office: H Simply Magazine, 1 George Williams Way, Colchester, Essex CO1 2JS

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Simply Magazine assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. The information contained about each individual, event or organization has been provided by such individual, event organizers or organization without verification by us. The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Simply Magazine. Therefore, Simply Magazine carries no responsibility for the opinion expressed thereon. Any form of reproduction of any content without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. For information on advertising or submitting a article please email David Cook at: Simplycolchester@gmail.com or call 01206 233717 / 07734 171985

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A Good Read remarkable clarity. The narrative alternates between Roberta's past and present, weaving together her experiences with food, from restrictive eating to liberating feasting, and her journey towards self-acceptance. It's a structure that effectively depicts the protagonist's evolving relationship with herself and her body and makes for a relatable read.

The Supper Club by Lara Williams Williams' striking and vividly written novel delves into the complexities of female friendship, body image, and the act of reclaiming space in a world that often tries to diminish women.

The story revolves around Roberta and Stevie, two young women who, after meeting at university, form a unique bond and establish the eponymous Supper Club – a secret society where women gather to indulge in food without guilt or judgement.

Williams' writing is both sharp and tender, capturing the subtleties of her characters' inner lives with

But this is more than a story about food and friendship. It is a nuanced exploration of the complexities of female identity and the ways in which women navigate a world that often seeks to constrain them.

Williams tackles issues of body image and the struggle for self-identity with sensitivity and insight, making the novel both thought-provoking and deeply moving in parts.

The Supper Club itself is a symbol of resistance against societal norms that dictate how women should look, eat, and behave. The descriptions of the meals are sumptuous and vivid, transporting the reader into these nocturnal gatherings where the women not only feast but also share stories, laughter, and pain.

This is a story that celebrates women while offering a commentary on the pressures they face. It's a story of transformation and liberation, and a reminder of the power of claiming one's space in the world.

The Kitchen Science Cookbook

by Dr. Michelle Dickinson This is a beautifully crafted book with a unique twist: each recipe is a science experiment that you can do at home, using the everyday ingredients you'll find in your kitchen.

You don’t need to be a science expert because the easy-to-follow recipes make science experiments fun for everyone. Nanotechnologist Michelle Dickinson is on a mission to show us that we can all be scientists, no matter how young or old.

The book has an easy-to-follow format, and every experiment uses ingredients found in most kitchens.

Kids will love following each recipe and learning about the science.

When I set aside an afternoon to

do a few experiments with my own kids I learned a lot too.

The photos show normal families doing each of the experiments, which contributes to the approachable feel of the book.

In spite of it being so accessible, Dickinson, who is a serious scientist, covers the scientific method coming up with a prediction, testing it etc; safety precautions, and general science tips which is great for nonscientist parents like me.

If you want to get your kids excited about science, this is a fabulous book.

By Tash Donovan

Give the gift of a brighter future Your regular gift of just £5 a month could go towards supporting young cancer patients through our Care Packages, Age-appropriate Rooms in hospitals and Research.

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Microchips What every pet-owner needs to know

National Microchipping Month emphasizes the importance of updating your pet's microchip details to ensure they can be reunited with you if lost. This event also promotes the benefits of microchipping pets.

Microchips, about the size of a grain of rice, are implanted by a vet or trained implanter in a quick, harmless procedure, providing a permanent means of identification unlike removable collars and tags. Since April 2016, it has been mandatory for all dogs in the UK to be microchipped and registered with a government-approved database, and starting 10th June this year, this requirement will extend to all cats by the time they are 20 weeks old.

The key advantage of microchipping is the increased likelihood of being reunited with you pet should they become lost. While microchipping for pets other than dogs and cats isn't legally required, it is highly recommended for all types of pets. Only authorized implanters,

Crossword

including vets and animal welfare organizations, can perform microchipping.

However, microchipping is not sufficient on its own. As a pet owner, it is crucial to ensure your pet's chip details are correct and updated regularly. If your contact details change, you are responsible for notifying the database to update your information.

You can be fined up to £500 if your dog or cat is not microchipped when they need to be. Dogs are also still required to wear a collar and tag.

If you are buying or adopting a dog or cat you should ask for proof a microchip has been fitted.

You can ask to see: a microchip certificate, vet records, or a pet passport.

For further information visit: www.gov.uk/get-your-dog-catmicrochipped

ACROSS

DOWN

1 Small round stone (6) 4 Pristine (6) 8 Large black bird (5) 9 Zeal (7) 10 Type of large military ship (7) 11 Rectify, revise (5) 12 Scarlet food dye (9) 17 Yellow/brown (5) 19 Gleaned (7) 21 Sparkle, shine (7) 22 Barbecue (5) 23 Cantankerous (6) 24 Burns supper dish (6)

1 Robbery at sea (6) 2 Temporary, makeshift camp (7) 3 Estate, territory (5) 5 Recite, recount (7) 6 Tally, total (5) 7 Make fun of, insult (6) 9 Outlawed, prohibited (9) 13 The fastest big cat (7) 14 Deficient, incomplete (7) 15 Purchased (6) 16 Grown ups (6) 18 Lift (5) 20 Belief, principle (5)

By Louise Addison

>>> Could YOU be a Blood Runner? <<<

See our article

EssexVoluntaryBloodService.com 7

Tee Time The Benefits of a Game of Golf second-hand clubs and equipment make starting out more budget-friendly.

Introductory sessions designed for beginners are increasingly common, helping new players of all ages get into the game without the pressure of high initial costs.

exercise, which is beneficial for all age groups, especially older players.

Moreover, golf is also a mental game. It challenges players to think strategically about each shot.

Decision-making skills are honed with every hole, as players must consider factors such as wind direction, course topography, and club selection. The mental concentration and focus needed to play golf can help reduce stress and enhance brain function, promoting a healthier mind.

My dad is a 'salt of the earth' no airs and graces type. When he retired he took up golf and no-one was more surprised than him! Golf was once seen as the sport of the elite, but it has evolved over the years, shedding its image as an exclusive pastime, and becoming more accessible to a broader population. Numerous public courses and affordable equipment options have opened the door for people from all walks of life, including my father (who worked as a plumber),

to enjoy golf. Could golf be the right sport for you?

Physical and Mental Health Benefits - Golf as a sport offers a unique blend of physical activity and mental stimulation. While it might not seem as intense as other sports, golf requires a significant amount of walking. A typical 18-hole golf course can stretch over 6 or 7 kilometres of walking (4-5 miles if you’re still pre decimal like my dad). So, it’s a fantastic way to get low-impact, cardiovascular

Additionally, golf is an activity that people can enjoy throughout their lives. Unlike many sports that might demand high levels of fitness or agility, golf’s pace and nature allow people to continue playing well into their senior years. This lifelong playability makes golf a wise investment in one's leisure time and physical well-being.

Social Interaction and Networking - Golf is inherently social. Whether playing a casual round with friends or participating in a club tournament, golfers often spend several hours together, which fosters a unique camaraderie. This aspect of the sport makes it an excellent tool for connecting with others, which is something known to improve mental health and reduce the risk of dementia.

So, golf’s transformation from an elitist sport to a more inclusive activity is encouraging more people to partake in its challenges and pleasures.

Whether you're looking for exercise, a way to meet new people, or a new skill to master, golf is a rewarding choice.

My father is now teaching my teenage daughter to play. They get to spend some quality time together, while exercising in the fresh air and bonus… she can’t use her phone while she’s playing. Thanks dad!

Accessibility and Lifelong Playability - Golf’s growing accessibility is one of its most appealing aspects. Public courses and driving ranges offer affordable options for those interested in the sport, and

By Cora McNeil

puzzle solutions: Solution to June Sudoku

Solution to June Quick Crossword

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Chocolate Sorbet Lighter than ice cream, refreshing, and gluten and dairy-free!

Prep time: 15 mins Freezing time: 3-4 hours plus chilling time Serves 4-6 Ingredients 100g good quality dark

Method Prepare the sugar syrup by placing the sugar and water into a saucepan. Bring to the boil without stirring and leave to simmer until the sugar crystals have dissolved (about 5 minutes). Remove from the heat.

Melt the dark chocolate in a heat-proof bowl suspended over a saucepan of justsimmering water. When it has melted add the 100ml water

chocolate (70% cocoa solids) broken into pieces.

100ml filtered or mineral water 60g cocoa powder For the sugar syrup 250ml filtered or mineral water 150g caster sugar

and reheat until warm. Whisk in the cocoa, then add the melted chocolate, whisking together until smooth.

Let the mixture cool, then chill it by placing the bowl of sorbet mixture over a bowl of water filled with ice cubes. Stir occasionally but don’t let any water splash into the sorbet mix.

For the smoothest results churn the chilled mixture in an ice cream maker until ready.

If you don’t have an ice cream maker then place the mixture in a shallow bowl and freeze it in the coldest part of the freezer. Take it out every hour and whisk it to break up the ice crystals. Made this way it will have a slightly more granular texture, but it will still be delicious.

Remove from the freezer about twenty minutes before serving.

Serving suggestions Although this is lovely on its own you could try serving it with: Strawberries dipped in melted chocolate, then chilled.

Rich butter shortbread (though obviously not if you’re on a gluten-free diet!).

With a glass of coffee, chocolate or mint liqueur poured over.

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Garden View - This month - The ‘why’ of weeds Some gardeners say that a weed is just a plant in the wrong place.

But is any unwanted plant it really a weed? Is an apple tree seedling a weed? Are the random aquilegia or California poppies softening my stone paths weeds?

plenty more to come next year. The thing about a plant like dandelions - and this is true for many of our labelled perennial weeds, such as nettles - is that bees and other insects love them, so they are wonderful for biodiversity.

Plants have one goal: to live long enough to reproduce. So sometimes these plants show up in areas they’re not welcome. These plants are not technically weeds, though we might decide to treat them as such.

Why DO plants show up where they’re not supposed to be?

Then there are the plants that we know as conventional weeds, such as dandelions. Some are annuals, which live their whole life cycle in one year, and persist through a legacy of hundreds of thousands of seeds, germinating anywhere and everywhere.

Dandelions are actually perennials.

They are persistent plants that love open lawn, growing into a big leafy mass with their characteristic bright yellow flowers. They also spread tens of thousands of seeds around to ensure that there are

Have you ever heard the phrase, ‘Nature abhors a vacuum’? It’s the concept that emptiness or nothingness runs counter to the laws of nature. Space must be filled with something, and weeds have embraced this concept wholeheartedly.

It explains why weeds pop up in places such as an open, mulched area or a pristine expanse of artfully placed stone patio. You may have determined there should be nothing there, but Mother Nature has other ideas and starts inserting plants to fill the void.

As gardeners, we like the idea of carefully selected plants placed in well-chosen spots in our landscape.

That’s ‘design’ – the conscious application of thought and the decision to grow or not grow plants in this particular place or that.

diligent with this because the odd weed is less noticeable among all the other plants, and they are good for insect life.

The sparsely planted landscaped garden and the heavily planted plot with barely any room between plants are garden styles at opposite ends of the spectrum. The first readily invites weeds to fill the empty spaces, but they are easy to see and remove. The second (which I favour), makes it difficult for weeds to germinate. But when they sprout – and they will - it takes a keen eye and some effort to remove them. I’m not

Neither garden is ‘correct’. The more natural landscape will ultimately be more sustainable with less weeding effort required, though when first planted, because it takes time for all those plants to grow and fill in, you’ll have to deal with – you guessed it – weeds.

Happy gardening.

By Rachael Leverton

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Word Search Can you find all of the ancient civilisations hidden in the grid?

Super Strawberries - Nature's sweet solution to wellbeing

It’s the time of year to celebrate the strawberry.

The first shocker is that it is not actually a berry. It’s a member of the rose family and is in fact the enlarged receptacle of a flower!

There's a lot to love about them.

They're lower in both calories and sugar than fruits like apples or bananas, yet they're high in fibre and other key nutrients. They're a lowglycaemic food, which means that they have little effect on blood sugar.

This makes them a tasty option for people looking to control or lower their blood glucose levels.

Akkadia Arab Empire Assyria Aztec Babylon Byzantine Carthage

Celts China Egypt El Argar Etruscan Franks Huns

Incas Paracas India Persia Japan Phoenicia Mayans Roman Empire Moche Vikings Mongols Ottoman Empire

Crossword

There are more health benefits too.

They naturally deliver vitamins, fibre, and particularly high levels of antioxidants known as polyphenols - without any sodium, fat, or cholesterol. They are among the top 20 high-antioxidant fruits and are a good source of manganese and potassium. Just one serving -about eight berries - provides more vitamin C than an orange.

Strawberries also have minerals such as calcium, iron, potassium, folate, and magnesium, along with more antioxidants called anthocyanins. Those are healthful plant compounds that also give strawberries their red colour.

The redder the fruit, the more antioxidants it has.

The vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in strawberries provide important health benefits.

The antioxidant compounds protect cells and tissue in your body by neutralizing unstable molecules called free radicals. By curbing free radicals, oxidative stress is also reduced. Oxidative stress can cause inflammation and your immune system contributing to several health conditions.

Strawberries are safe for most people, but people who are allergic to birch pollen are more likely to have an allergic reaction when they eat strawberries or other red fruits.

Allergic reactions to strawberries usually cause symptoms such as itchy bumps, tingling, or swelling of your lips, mouth, tongue, or throat. Seek medical advice if this happens.

By Louise Addison

ACROSS

DOWN

1 March off before obnoxious display of

1 Novel – old, weird Christie novel (5,4,5)

attractive offers (5,9)

2 Drink with a trainee policeman before work (7)

9 Decried fighting in third game of best of

3 Manufactured cheese turns up (4)

three? (7)

4 Rich trifle excited oriental (7)

10 Hopin’ to find something for the pain (7)

5 Elected leader finally in charge is able to keep

11 Some polypropylene is substandard (4)

in shape (7)

12 Fund for young Tom (5)

6 Drinks up on board ship (4)

13 Little child needs strength, it’s said (4)

7 Mounting fear? (7)

16 Force one may chiefly associate with

8 From time to time bury glove by telly, oddly (14)

Heartbeat (7)

14 Friend acquires ring of bronze perhaps (5)

17 Study with class and fit in (7)

15 Rogue found in part of church when

18 Forestall Anne Boleyn’s fate? (4,3)

speaking (5)

21 Vicar, is it? Call again (7)

19 To get rid of a slob, I changed hospital (7)

23 Old boy wants old pound coin from the past (4)

20 Intended to provide funds, lacking new

24 It enables you to visit several stations (5)

opening for enterprise (7)

25 Present the woman with accolade finally (4)

21 Tire man out making clothing (7)

28 One curtailed diction strangely – that’s

22 Kind that is wearing glasses (7)

stupid (7)

26 Small label for men only (4)

29 English supporter is first to tackle poet (7)

27 Bishop meets one Greek character or

30 They will take on big guns at start of bestselling

another (4)

book (3,5,6)

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Call today for a no obligation quote

01206 564179 01473 780477 12

New Cabinet appointed for Colchester City Council following AGM

Cllr Paul Dundas, Leader of Colchester City Council, (right) and Cllr David King, Deputy Leader of Colchester City Council, (left) outside Colchester Town Hall.

Credit Colchester City Council

A new Cabinet has been appointed to lead Colchester City Council, following the authority’s rescheduled Annual General Meeting (AGM) held today (Wednesday 3 June). At the previous meeting on 27 May no Administration could be agreed which had left the Council in political limbo.

The make-up of the council is currently 18 seats for the Conservative group, 12 seats for the Liberal Democrat group, 9 seats for the Labour group, 5 seats for the Reform UK group, 4 seats for the newly formed Progressive Independence Alliance group and 3 seats for the Green Party group.

As no single group has a majority, the Conservative and Liberal Democrat groups have agreed to form a coalition administration to provide stable leadership and support the delivery of the Council’s priorities.

Cllr Andrew Luxford Vaughan – Portfolio Holder for Planning and Sustainable Development

Councillor Paul Dundas has been elected as Leader of the Council, with Councillor David King confirmed as Deputy Leader. Together, they will lead the new Cabinet in delivering the Council’s priorities for residents and communities across Colchester.

Cllr Martin Goss – Portfolio Holder for Waste, Neighbourhoods and Leisure

The newly appointed Cabinet is made up of eight councillors:

Leader of the Council, Cllr Paul Dundas, said: “It is a privilege to be elected Leader of Colchester City Council. This new administration is focused on providing stability and delivering for our residents, businesses and communities.

Cllr Paul Dundas – Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Strategy Cllr David King – Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Communities and Public Protection Cllr Darius Laws– Portfolio Holder for Culture, Heritage and the Environment Cllr Alison Jay– Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Transformation and Digital Cllr Rhys Smithson – Portfolio Holder for Housing

Cllr William Sunnucks – Portfolio Holder for Resources and Assets

The Cabinet will be responsible for key decision-making and shaping the Council’s strategic direction in the coming year.

“We will prioritise strong financial management and ensure that council resources are used efficiently and responsibly.

Supporting local economic growth, maintaining high-quality public services, and keeping Colchester clean, safe and well-managed will be key areas of focus.

“As we look ahead to Local Government Reorganisation, we

will be focusing relentlessly on delivery and getting as much done for Colchester in the remaining time this Council has available.

We will also be looking to leave a legacy of ideas, projects and a vision to take Colchester forward which our successor Council can pick up and continue with, should they wish.”

Deputy Leader, Cllr David King, added: “I am pleased to take on the role of Deputy Leader and to support the Leader and Cabinet in delivering the Council’s priorities.

“Our focus will be on the issues that matter most to residents, including supporting people with the cost of living, addressing housing need and ensuring access to safe, affordable homes. We will continue to invest in community infrastructure and services that support strong, healthy and connected neighbourhoods, while ensuring the Council is ready for Local Government Reorganisation and fit for the future.”

For full details of the local election results, visit: https://www.new. colchester.gov.uk/elections/2026election-results#gsc.tab=0

Sudoku

How to play Sudoku It’s simple!

Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition.

You don’t need to be a genius. These puzzles use logic alone.

Watch out! Sudoku is highly addictive.

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It’s the perfect balance of a peaceful retreat while still being close to the vibrant coast and the seaside town of Clacton-on-Sea. Beyond its location, the park has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where holiday home owners enjoy a strong community spirit.

With a programme of owners-only events throughout the season, there’s always something to get involved in.

Oaklands combines peace and convenience, with just enough facilities to make every visit enjoyable. Spend time fishing for Carp, Tench and Roach on the lake, or unwind with family and friends at The Forester’s Tavern, the welcoming hub of the park.

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School's (Almost) Out - The Holiday Childcare Dilemma invented for a reason. Maybe you can join forces.

actually read newsletters, so you can get ahead of the game here!

Could you work from home during the all or part of the school holidays?

If you think this may be possible, discuss the idea with your boss. It’s best to draw up a plan detailing which aspects of your work could reasonably be completed remotely.

You may get a positive response because if you’re not taking a holiday, they won’t have to find cover.

If you can afford them, there are some terrific holiday clubs on offer.

Some specialise in sport, others in a variety of outdoor activities - including kayaking and rockclimbing. There are drama, music, art, and crafts clubs and even clubs teaching circus skills. Check what your local area has to offer.

Even if you can piece together using some holiday, working from home, and sharing care with friends and family, you’ll probably still be left with some time to cover.

School holidays are just around the corner. Can you hear the collective panic from working parents everywhere? While our kids look forward to a long summer break, for us parents it can prove a logistical nightmare. What we need are practical ideas and solutions.

Start with how much of the holiday you can cover yourself. Will your family holiday take care of a fortnight? Some parents juggle childcare between them. Parent one covers two weeks then parent

two covers two weeks, leaving just two weeks to find extra cover.

However, it may not be desirable to split your holidays, nor even practical if you are a single parent.

What about Grandparents? While some love to help out, others may still be working themselves, or may be too frail, or far away to help.

Perhaps you can share childcare with another relative or a friend.

Are there other working parents at your child’s school with similar problems? WhatsApp groups were

Now is the time to investigate paid-childcare options. If you have a pre-schooler at nursery, check whether it offers holiday care for older siblings. Schools and afterschool clubs often run holiday schemes too. The advantage of these is that they are subsidised by the Government, so are less expensive than private options.

The disadvantage is that they fill up fast, so book early. They are often advertised first in school newsletters and few people

Always check supervision levels, training certificates, health and safety information and any Ofsted reports. Try to speak with the group leaders so you get a feel for what they are like and whether your child will take to them.

School holidays are never easy if you work, but a little forward planning will relieve some of the stress. Remember though, that even the best laid plans can be derailed. Previous years here have involved a broken leg (son), appendicitis (me) and one year both kids contracting chicken pox the day after breaking up!

Happy school hols!

By Sarah Davey

Beyond the Finish Line - Lessons learned from a school sports day situation in a more positive light helps build resilience. It teaches her that, while we cannot control all life events, we can control our emotional responses and reactions.

At the same time, we should embrace the competition element.

Competition is a necessary part of life so exposing children to it at a young age helps prepare them for life. Competitive sport can build a positive ethos and highlights the importance of playing by the rules and working as a team.

Summer term is here and school children all over the country are gearing up for the annual test of strength, stamina and dexterity otherwise known as School Sports Day.

Accusing Johnny of cheating in the sack race is not good form, even if you did see him shove Suria out of the way. Remember that we are there as spectators; let the teachers deal with the kids.

There's nothing quite like it: sunburn, squabbles, sprained ankles, and a distinct lack of sportsmanship...and that's just the parents.

Cheer but try not to be 'that' parent', barking instructions from the sideline. Just because we came first (or last) in every race at school, doesn’t necessarily mean that our child will do the same. And if she comes last in the egg and spoon race but doesn’t drop her egg, we can always praise her fantastic sense of balance. Reframing a

Children learn by watching those around them, especially their parents, so it is important to model good sports day etiquette.

Sports Day is an opportunity for us to show children how to accept both victory and defeat with grace. Learning how to manage emotions in both situations will benefit them in their personal or professional lives. Teach them to refrain from petulant behaviour such as badmouthing the winner or denouncing a race as 'stupid' or 'unfair'. Instead, practice good sports etiquette by congratulating the victors with a ‘Well done’ and a genuine smile. And while they should be encouraged to take pride in their accomplishments, over-

the-top displays of celebration can make them seem insensitive and arrogant. They should say thank you to everyone who congratulates them and acknowledge the efforts of their teammates.

Sports Day is an ideal opportunity for children to learn to work together as a team. We can encourage our child to cheer on their teammates and enjoy being part of a group with a common goal. It is important not to berate those children who are slower or less co-ordinated than others.

It is certainly not acceptable sportsmanship to single anyone out as a scapegoat for the team not winning.

If approached in the right way, events like Sports Day build qualities such as respect, resilience, and perseverance. When our child gets back up can carries on after falling over in the sack race, or thanks their team members after winning the relay race, they are developing the building blocks for a successful future.

By Bev Stone

15

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