The Family Buzz Magazine - St Albans (Spring 2024)

Spring 2024

“The ultimate guide to what’s on in your local area!”

www.thefamilybuzz.co.uk

Welcome to Spring 2024!

We are incredibly excited to unveil the very first issue of the Family Buzz magazine, dedicated to enriching the lives of families like yours!

We have worked with some amazing organisations to bring you a directory of products and services aimed specifically at families in the local area. From fun and exciting day-out ideas to engaging classes and groups, school features, and a preview ve crafted a source of information to

More than just pages and print, Family Buzz is a community where families can connect with each other, and support a fantastic range of local businesses of all sizes.

Our goal is for Family Buzz to become your go-to resource for all things family-related. We are committed to providing you with a wealth of valuable information, ensuring that every day becomes an opportunity for new adventures and experiences.

From our families to yours, have a fantastic Spring!

Competitions

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Sal England & Iva Young| Editor | t: 0203 837 0275 | e: hello@thefamilybuzz.co.uk facebook.com/familybuzzhertfordshire | instagram.com/familybuzzhertfordshire/

Published 3 times a year in early March, July and November. 10,000+ copies distributed across North Herts and Stevenage.

300+ distribution points.

Over 20,000 monthly online views.

Advertise with us and let your local community know about your services and products

Copy deadlines: 10th February | 10th June | 10th October

Disclaimer:

Inclusion

Image

Background Image Image by bearfotos freepik.com/free-photo/summerlandscape_1246509.htm

16 This environmentally-conscious magazine has been thoughtfully crafted from recycled paper, ensuring a sustainable approach to publication. Our commitment to ethical printing and distribution involves partnering with eco-friendly suppliers and minimising our carbon footprint, contributing to a greener, healthier planet. This magazine is uncoated and can be recycled.

Parties

PARTY TREATS & CAKES

Anitas Cake Bakery

Harpenden based Celebration cakes to order Cupcake decorating parties for kids. Info@anitascakebakery.com

Feeding Time

Harpenden

Kids’ party food, iced biscuits, movie night/sleepover boxes and more kavonak@googlemail.com

www.feedingtimeparties.com

The Sunflower Pantry Celebration cakes, cupcakes, brownies, blondies, cookies and small treats thesunflowerpantry.megan@gmail.com www.thesunflowerpantry.co.uk

PARTY SUPPLIER/ EQUIPMENT HIRE

The Marvellous Sleepover Company Luxury indoor teepees in St Albans, Harpenden and surrounding areas

Telephone: 07866 456 545 annie@marvelloussleepovers.co.uk www.marvelloussleepovers.co.uk

Bens Bouncy Castles

Inflatables, bouncy castles, Telephone: 07932 533 030 info@bensbouncycastles.co.uk www.bensbouncycastles.co.uk

Eddie Bear Creative Party toys hire/Themed small world tuff tray hire, Call: 07531849592

Email: eddiebearcreative@gmail.com

Koncept Castles

Bouncy Castles, Inflatable Slides, Fun Run, Disco Dome, Giant Games and more

Telephone: 01462 730 895

Email: info@konceptcastles.co.uk

www.konceptcastles.co.uk

Pop Luxe Parties

Harpenden, Hertfordshire Luxury soft play, Montessori equipment, tepees, dress-ups, scandi-inspired touch, boho bunting, floral garlands and more

Telephone: 07597 729 960

Email: popluxeparties@gmail.com

PARTY DECORATIONS & VENUES

Annie's Princess Palace Parties

An exciting party entertainer.

Great reviews & passionate entertainers. anniesprincesspalaceparties@gmail.com anniesprincesspalaceparties.godaddysites.com

ArtShed

Parties, Holiday Camps, Art Classes info@shedloadsoffun.com

www.shedloadsoffun.com

Artikids

Covering Hertfordshire & Bedfordshire

Children’s ArtiParties for girls and boys, all ages chantal@artikids.uk

www.artikids.uk

Just Face Painting

Popdance

Fun birthday dance parties, hen parties, workshops, camps, after school clubs and events info@popdance.co.uk popdance.co.uk

Debbie’s Devents

Party Entertainment Service

We offer fully themed party packages.

Telephone: 07908612707

Email: debbienevill74@gmail.com

www.debbiesdevents.co.uk

House of Parties

Balloons, bunting and more..

Balloons made to order, catering for small at home celebrations to big events, weddings and business launches.

Telephone: 07412 525606

Email: Info@houseofparties.co.uk

PARTY ENTERTAINERS

Kid Fit Parties

The Ultimate Sports Day Party for kids aged 3-10, Relays races, space hoppers, dodgeball and more Kidfitparties.com

Sandy Art

Children's parties for ages 3-11 years

Telephone: 07984 023628

Email: info@sandy-art.co.uk

www.sandy-art.co.uk

Children, Adults, Corporate Events

Email: info@justfacepaintinguk.com

Telephone: 07498242782

www.justfacepaintinguk.com

Wrestling Parties

Kid’s Birthday Parties, Stag Do’s, Hen Do’s, Team Building & Corporate

Email: wrestlingpartiesuk@gmail.com

Facebook: @wrestlingpartiesuk

Football’s Future

Discount Code: FEBUZZ15

Football/sport’s parties, multi-sport holiday clubs, Footballs-future.com

The Party Poppers

MENTION THE FAMILY BUZZ FOR COMPLIMENTARY PERSONALISED BALLOON with any party package

Magic, Disco, Games, Balloon Modelling, Face Painting Birthday Parties, Family Events and more Call Louise: 07738 563 909 Thepartypoppers.co.uk

Once Upon a Perfect Party Party entertainers/Character visits/Party packages onceuponaperfectparty@outlook.com

www.onceuponaperfectparty.com

Parties

Creatively Mindful Craft & Messy Play Parties

Craft tables, messy play trays, slime parties, sensory party bags emma.creativelyhealthy@gmail.com

@creatively_mindful

Disco Kids Parties

Kids Parties, Teen Disco, School Disco

Telephone: 07590 643 990

Email: hello@discokidsparties.co.uk www.discokidsparties.co.uk

Mad Science

Science lab parties for kids and Holiday camps

Hertfordshire & Bedfordshire

Telephone: 01727824700

Email: aimee@madsciencehb.co.uk hertsbeds.madscience.org

Glitter Me This

Face Painting, Hair Braiding, Glitter

Telephone: 07808 649 779 @glittermethis89

Little Party Lambs

Children’s party entertainer/Themed children’s parties/Doorstep Visits

Face painter, Balloons, Discos and more

Telephone: 07704129127

Email: littlepartylambs@yahoo.com

littlepartylambs.com

Tiny T’s Enchanted Cottage Hertfordshire’s Only Immersive Fairy Cottage Experience

Birthday Parties, Weekly Classes, Magical Experiences @tinytstheatre

www.tinytstheatre.com

One task I ask my clients to do in-between sessions to support the process is to keep a positive diary, noting down 3-5 things each day that they have enjoyed, been pleased with or perhaps has given them a little sense of an achievement buzz.

For some children and parents this can initially be a difficult task.

When we are struggling with:

• low mood

• low self-esteem

• low confidence

• or anxiety

we may find ourselves focusing on those things we feel negative about.

Why is this?

This is because our brain, on a subconscious level, is reacting as if we are under threat, being triggered by various events, interactions or worrisome thoughts.

By getting my clients to start focusing on what’s been good it is the beginning of their journey to more positivity, happiness and fulfilment in every day life. Allowing better resilience in challenging situations.

The more we feel this way, the more our brain focusses on the negatives – in the same way that you wouldn’t take your eyes off a polar bear lurking around in your back garden waiting for you to come out so it can have its lunch!

I am Vanessa form The Youth Fairy Harpenden & St Albans. I specialise in supporting children and teens with their mental health. My approach to therapy is modern, evidence based and actively encourages children to refocus more on the positive aspects of their life. If you are looking for a place to find helpful tips, advice, insights and resources, to help you support your child’s wellbeing please head over to The Parent Pad on The Youth Fairy website.

www.theyouthfairy.com

Every week is a great new blog – previous weeks topics have included

• Solution focused conversations

• Emotional Based School Non Attendance

• Spotlighting Sensory Processing Disorder

Please follow me at:

https://www.facebook.com/vanessaolney.mckenna

www.thefamilybuzz.co.uk/stalbans

Children’s Classes

BABY& YOUNG CHILDREN CLASSES

Hartbeeps

Sensory music classes, in-house sessions, parties and much more Hitchin, St Albans, Welwyn, Hatfield, Cheshunt, Potters Bar

Email: jodi.carolyn@hartbeeps.com

Insta - @hartbeepswithjodiandcarolyn

Mini Moovers

Homewood Road , St Albans

Imaginative and creative music & movement classes for children aged 6 months - 4yrs

Telephone: 07740 290654 minimooversfun@gmail.com

Facebook @minimoovers

Baby Sensory St Albans & Harpenden

The multi-award winning programme for babies from birth to 13 months

Telephone: 07736 285203 stalbans@babysensory.co.uk

www.babysensory.com/stalbans

Mini Mozart

Live Music Classes for Preschool kids across Herts.

Use code ‘buzz’ for 25% off your first month www.minimozart.com

Rugbytots

St Albans Girls School, St Albans

Dynamic weekly play sessions for boys and girls aged 2-7 jamesr@rugbytots.co.uk www.rugbytots.co.uk

The Little Gym Harpenden

Developmental gymnastics classes, holiday camps and parties. 4 months - 12 years

https://harpenden.thelittlegym.co.uk

Cha Char Chimps

Weekly interactive musical fun shows for preschool children St Albans & Redbourn emma@ccchimps.com

Facebook: Cha Char Chimps – St Albans www.ccchimps.com

ARTS & CRAFTS

Art Shed

Art Classes, Holiday Camps, Parties St Albans & Harpenden info@shedloadsoffun.com www.shedloadsoffun.com

Sparks St Albans Film School Film School for Ages 5-18 Filming classes & holiday camps stalbans@sparksarts.co.uk www.sparksarts.co.uk

Nature Makers

St Albans & North Hertfordshire

Mindful Nature Art, Craft & Play experiences for Children & Adults karen@nature-makers.co.uk www.nature-makers.co.uk

LANGUAGES & TUITION

Mandarin Courses

Fun lessons for all ages Online or in person jingjing.xia.cn@gmail.com

Alec Pulver Physics & Science Tutor Online tutoring or face-to-face in Harpenden Telephone: 07484 658 863 alecpulver@gmail.com

The Language Cabin French, German and EFL/ESL tutoring online justine@thelanguagecabin.co.uk www.thelanguagecabin.co.uk

Children’s Classes

SPORTS

Water Splash Swim School

Weekly swimming lessons for everyone aged 3 and over Sandringham School, St Albans Marlborough Science Academy, St Albans Call Lauren 07852 982 753 watersplashswimschool.co.uk

Mystics Trampoline and Gymnastics Club

Trampolining and Gymnastics for gymnasts of all abilities aged 3 – 17 St Albans TRAMPOLINE - maria@mysticsclub.uk GYMNASTICS - hayley@mysticsclub.uk www.mysticsclub.uk

Edge Football Academy

St Albans Girl School, AL3 6DB

Tuesdays 6-7:30pm

For boys and girls ages 4 to 16

Telephone: 07766 838281

Email: info@edgefa.co.uk

www.edgefa.co.uk

Tag Rugby

OA RFC Woollam Fields, Harpenden Rd, AL3 6BB, U5s -U8s Sunday mornings minis@oarugby.com

Showtime Circus

Fully inclusive circus school for babies, children and adults Hitchin and Harpenden rollup@showtimecircus.co.uk www.showtimecircus.co.uk

Herts & Beds Specialist Coaching –Sports

Holiday Sports Camps, fitness specific sessions as well as small group and 1 to 1 specialist coaching hertsandbedscoaching@gmail.com hertsandbedsspecialistcoaching.com

Elliswick Lawn Tennis Club

We offer term time coaching from tots to adults with options from Monday to Saturday, holiday camps for different age groups. Contact Ben Wood for more information: btb_elliswickltc@hotmail.com www.elliswickltc.co.uk

DANCE & DRAMA

Finding Voices

Speech & Drama classes for ages 8-18 St Albans & Harpenden

Telephone: 07900 301 375 hello@findingvoices.co.uk findingvoices.co.uk

Best Theatre Arts

Independent theatre school based in St Albans, Hertford & Ware

Weekly classes and holiday camps

Telephone: 01727 759 634 info@besttheatrearts.org.uk besttheatrearts.com

Stagecoach Harpenden

Singing, dancing & acting

Two-week trials available Students aged 4-16 years

Call Liz 07793 206846 www.stagecoach.co.uk/harpenden

Trestle Theatre Company School of Drama

Regular classes for ages 4-7, 8-10, 1114, 14+

Russet Drive, St Albans admin@trestle.org.uk

www.trestle.org.uk/trestle-school-ofdrama

Perform Workshops Ltd

GET £40 DISCOUNT, quote BUZZ310324

Weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 712s

Telephone: 020 7255 9195 enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk

Penny Waterman School of Dance Ballet, Tap, Street Dance & Musical Theatre Classes for children 18 months16 years

St Alabans, Harpenden, Redbourn & Abbots Langley

Telephone: 01727 858632

admin@pennywaterman.com

www.pennywaterman.com

PQA Ltd ST Albans

Training for stage and screen, ages 4-18 St Albans Girls School every Sunday from 9.45am – 1pm

Telephone: 07961 678 446 www.pqacademy.com

MUSIC

Harpenden Contemporary Music School

Drums, Piano, Guitar, Singing, Music Creation and Production lessons info@harpendencms.co.uk www.harpendencms.co.uk

Peter Lipman Piano Teacher

For children and adults in Harpenden and online piano lessons

Telephone: 07946 591 899 peter@harpendenpianoteacher.co.uk

HOLIDAY CLUBS & AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS

Encore Football

Holiday camps for ages 5-13, Harpenden

Telephone: 07577 365083

Mark@encorefootball.com

Fusion Childcare Services

Breakfast & After School Club – Dark Lane, Harpenden

Pre-School - Johns Road, Harpenden www.fusionchildcareservices.co.uk

TRAVEL & HOLIDAYS

Almshoe Glamping

Almshoe Bury Farm, Hitchin, SG4 7NT Telephone: 01462 434 593

Email: almshoeglamping@gmail.com www.almshoeglamping.co.uk

Children’s Classes

Football’s Future

Discount Code: FEBUZZ15

Children’s coaching, multi-sport holiday clubs, football/sport’s parties Footballs-future.com

Sparks St Albans Film School Film School for Ages 5-18

Filming classes & holiday camps stalbans@sparksarts.co.uk www.sparksarts.co.uk

Holiday Camps

2nd - 12th April for 3-12 year olds

Awesome gymnastics, STEM activities, arts and crafts games and more!

Morning, afternoon & full day option Book with childcare vouchers and taxfree childcare via: harpenden@thelittlegym.co.uk

https://harpenden.thelittlegym.booked.it

Art Shed

Art Classes, Holiday Camps, Parties St Albans & Harpenden info@shedloadsoffun.com www.shedloadsoffun.com

Happy Human Project

Emotional Wellbeing classes & camps for kids

Berkhamsted & St Albans hello@happyhumanproject.co.uk www.happyhumanproject.co.uk

Hospitality & Retail

TJ Trips

Independent Travel Agent

Email: Tjtrips@outlook.com

Facebook: @Tjtrips

Dreaming of your next holiday?

Let me help you find the perfect getaway

Laura Wood

Personal Travel Consultant

Telephone: 01223 535493

Email: laura.wood@premier-travel.co.uk

Facebook: Laura wood - premier travel

FAMILY & CHILDREN’S RETAILERS

Unplugged Tots

Screen-free pre-computer coding skills for 21/2 to 8 years old

Email: hello@unpluggedtots.com www.unpluggedtots.com

Harpenden Books

48 High Street, Harpenden, AL5 2SX

Telephone: 01582 471375

enquiries@harpendenbooks.co.uk www.waterstones.com

Beat School Uniforms 4 Station Road, Harpenden, AL5 4SE beatschooluniforms.co.uk

Holy Cow Kids

Crafts, games, wooden toys, educational toys, soft toys and more contact.hck@gmail.com www.holycowkids.biz

Beautiful Baby Gift Baskets

info@beautifulbabygiftbaskets.co.uk

www.beautifulbabygiftbaskets.co.uk

Only Hook & String

Original and unique crochet toys, key rings, bags, decoration

Email: contact@onlyhookandstring.com www.onlyhookandstring.com

FAMILY & PARENTING SUPPORT

Parents That Work

Helping couples navigate parenthood. Couples workshops and coaching to develop strong, connected, and loving parenting partnerships. www.parentsthatwork.co.uk

The Youth Fairy St Albans, Harpenden and Online Child & Teen Therapy

Telephone: 07423 264 531

Email: vanessa@theyouthfairy.com

Have a Word ADHD Coaching, Mental Health Therapy, Clinical Hypnotherapy, St Albans www.haveaword.org

Health & Wellbeing

PRE & POST NATAL CARE

6WeekSocial

Postnatal courses offering friendship and community, along with tailored specialist advice and support.

6weeksocial@gmail.com

www.6weeksocial.co.uk

Be Kind Hypnobirthing

Doula led Hypnobirthing & Birth Preparation for ALL births

Telephone: 07854 066263

carys.worsdale@icloud.com

www.bekindhypnobirthing.com

Harpenden Breastfeeding Support

Providing support by mothers for mothers in and around Harpenden. tricia@triciaking.co.uk

Facebook @harpendenbreastfeedingsupport

Sleep Time Consulting

1-2-1, Online Courses, Group Sessions Based in St Albans kate@sleeptimeconsulting.co.uk sleeptimeconsulting.co.uk

EXERCISE

Awareness Yoga

Harpenden Yoga Classes and Yoga for pregnancy

Telephone: 07896 294243

fenn.fran@googlemail.com

www.awarenessyoga.co.uk

The Mummy PT

Mummy Fitness Classes, St Albans

Telephone: 07583795136

sarah@themummypt.co.uk

www.themummypt.co.uk

Help your kids to manage stress for a better night’s sleep

It has long been recognised that sleep is a crucial component of good mental health. Getting enough of it enables us to process what we have learned during the day, increases the brain’s plasticity and allows our cells to regenerate.

When it comes to mental health and sleep, it’s a chicken/egg situation because both hugely impact each other. In 2022, an NHS study found a staggering 34% of 7-16 year olds had trouble sleeping for 3 days or more in a week. So, what is the problem and how can we, as parents and educators, help to solve it?

Kids’ stress levels are too high

A little bit of stress is good for us because without it, we wouldn’t achieve very much. However, too much stress and not enough self-regulation is a problem. When we are in stressful situations, our bodies release a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol is responsible for helping us to survive danger because it switches on the survival part of our nervous system, getting our blood pumping and hearts racing. However, too much unmanaged stress means too much cortisol, and that makes sleep and good mental health difficult to maintain. It is crucial therefore that children are self-regulating throughout the day. Think of kids like coke bottles; you need to release some of the pressure regularly to avoid the bottle becoming too fizzy.

Move: Exercise releases feel-good hormones and helps to process emotions. Encourage children to take movement breaks regularly to reduce the build up of stress. This could involve running outside for 5 minutes, or just doing jumping jacks for 10 seconds.

Breathe: Teaching children to slow their breathing down helps to induce a feeling of relaxation. Practice taking 2 sharp inhales through the nose and one long exhale through the mouth. We call this bunny breath and doing it little and often can reduce stress levels and improve sleep.

Practice mindfulness: Using the 54321 method, stop and notice 5 things you can see, 4 things you can hear, 3 things you can feel, 2 things you can smell and 1 thing you can taste. This simple strategy brings us into the present moment and that in itself calms us down.

Ultimately, the better we are at coping with stress, the healthier our minds are, and the better we will sleep. Managing stress is a lifelong challenge and one that starts at a very young age. When we give children strategies to start to recognise how they’re feeling and then self-regulate, we’re arming them with resilience and practical tools that they’ll use throughout their lives.

Writtenby:CharlotteClark,DirectorofHappyHumanProject

Find out more about our work: www.happyhumanproject.co.uk or @happyhumanprojectltd on Facebook & Instagram

Awareness in mental health soars as skiers and snowboarders with additional needs benefit from life-changing skills.

Individuals with additional needs and mental health challenges are gaining invaluable life-changing skills through skiing and snowboarding with Snowbility. With their slogan, ‘It's cool to be different,’ Snowbility are supporting their students, families, and carers to achieve amazing results.

Snowbility provide an opportunity to gain experience in the sport in a safe environment, through an integrated approach that helps to develop their students’ social skills, such as interaction, confidence, self-esteem, concentration, motor skills and motivation.

Since Snowbility launched in 2011, thousands of people with additional needs and mental health challenges have benefited in a positive way. Evidence has shown that participation of a sport, such as skiing or snowboarding, can dramatically improve people’s lives.

Snowbility, which is based at The Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead, was founded by Richard Fetherston, a passionate snow sports’ enthusiast and instructor. Their carefully selected and specialised team of fully qualified ski and snowboard instructors are BASI (British Association of Snowsports Instructors) or IASI (Irish Association of Snowsports Instructors) qualified and registered, as well as experienced in both indoor and Alpine environments.

Richard said: “We have a team of fully qualified ski and snowboard instructors with the knowledge, experience, and passion to provide tailor-made coaching for a wide range of complex physical, psychological, and mental health needs, including learning disabilities, autism, dyspraxia, and deafness. We aim to enrich the lives of our students, parents, carers, and teachers we work with, by giving people with additional needs and rehabilitation challenges the opportunity to develop both emotionally and physically through skiing and snowboarding.”

He continued: “It is the best job in the world. As a team, we like nothing more than seeing the progress of our students - people like George who has Glaucoma, Sturge-Weber syndrome and is on the autistic spectrum; he’s an inspiration and we’re so proud of him. To watch George on the BBC, go to: www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/stories-43371541

Once we get our pupils skiing and their families start to see the changes, then they all benefit; everyone gets involved. It is truly humbling to see lives change in such a positive way.”

Snowbility is the first of its kind to receive Accreditation Status and Commendation from the National Autistic Society (NAS). They were also accredited by the NAS for their online Yeti Fitness Academy, which was launched during the Pandemic, where they delivered virtual activity sessions for students from Special Educational Needs (SEN) schools covering both hidden and physical disabilities.

To find out more about how Snowbility can help you, please contact Kathy Morris on 01442 773007 or by email at kathy@snowbility.co.uk

www.snowbility.co.uk

CHILD CARE & BABY SITTING

Harmony at Home

Top class nannies and housekeepers

Telephone: 01707 444 240

Email: jo@harmonyathome.co.uk harmonyathome.co.uk

Fusion Childcare Services

Wraparound Care to Nursery aged Children, The Grove Infant and Nursery School in Harpenden

Abby: 07796000413

Admin@fusionchildcareservices.co.uk www.fusionchildcareservices.co.uk

Pre-School Southdown

9:10am -12:10pm with option for early drop off and lunch club

Contact Miss Wilkins: 07908121891 preschoolsouthdown@fusionchildcareser vices.co.uk

www.fusionchildcareservices.co.uk

Hannah's House Childminding Ofsted Registered Childminder

Telephone: 07957316556 hannahfirmin1@gmail.com Facebook @hannahshouse.co.uk

Full listing available online!

Scan this QR code or visit: www.thefamilybuzz.co.uk

Family Services

Pumpkins Nanny Agency

Supplying nannies for families across the whole of Hertfordshire

Telephone: 07584 090966

Email: mail@pumpkinsnannyagency.co.uk pumpkinsnannyagency.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Emma Burgess Photographer

Instagram: @thiscarefreelife

Email: Emmaberrisford@hotmail.com

Chris Elliott Photography

chriselliottphotos@gmail.com

@Chriselliottphotography www.chriselliottphotography.co.uk

Claire Connold Photography

claire@claireconnoldphotography.co.uk

www.claireconnoldphotography.co.uk

OTHER

The Flamingo Organising

Decluttering & Home Organising Service

Contact Sarah on: 07397 327067

Sarah@FlamingoOrganising.com flamingoorganising.com

Blue Sapphire Cleaning Services Herts, Beds, & Cambridgeshire

Telephone: 07956 170 268

clean@bluesapphirecleaningservices.co.uk

www.bluesapphirecleaningservices.co.uk

WIN TICKETS TO A SPECTACULAR PICNIC CONCERT IN HATFIELD PARK!

We’ve teamed up with Battle Proms Picnic Concerts, for their annual concert in historic and leafy Hatfield Park on Saturday 20 July, where you can win tickets worth £154 and a fabulous summer experience for your family.

The lucky winner will receive 2 adult and 2 child tickets to enjoy a full programme of captivating and uplifting classical music from the 60-piece New English Concert Orchestra, complemented by toe-tapping vintage vocals from The Battle Proms Belles, plus a breathtaking choreographed Spitfire display, dramatic parachute and cavalry displays and groundshaking live fire from over 200 cannons!

From meeting the cavalry riders and their horses, hanging out with Red Devils parachute heroes, cheering in the Spitfire and marvelling at the cannon fire and spectacular firework finale, this quintessentially British ‘party in the park’ is fun for all the family. So pack a picnic, stockup on fizz, dig out your red white and blue and get ready for the Hatfield Park Battle Proms!

For a chance to win, answer the question, what’s your favourite picnic treat? To submit your answer, scan the QR code and complete the form.

Don’t want to leave it to chance? Early bird tickets are available now at battleproms.com

Folk by the Oak festival returns to Hatfield Park on Sunday 21 July, and we have a family pass worth £154 to give away! This much-loved Hertfordshire music festival is a truly family friendly affair, with a world of creative workshops to discover in their tree-lined arena, plus a fun packed family area cleverly positioned in sight and sound of the main stage so you can enjoy award winning musicians such as Levellers, The Staves and Sekou Keita, all while keeping the younger family members entertained! With an exceptional line-up of 13 folk, roots and acoustic acts across their 2 stages, plus activities ranging from circus skills, climbing wall and archery to henna painting, music workshops and fairy dancing, Folk by the Oak really is the perfect family festival experience with all the music and fun of a 3-day festival in one joyous day in a beautiful location. You are even welcome to bring your own picnic and drinks along so there’s no need to spend a fortune keeping the family fed, although a fabulous array of festival street food is available!

For a chance to win, answer the question, where is Folk by the Oak held? To submit your answer, scan the QR code and complete the form.

Don’t want to leave it to chance? Early bird, group and family tickets are available now at folkbytheoak.com

Photo credit: Tammy Marlar

Photo credit: Tammy Marlar

Tommy & Lottie

Based in St Albans

Tommy and Lottie are a unisex, ethical and sustainable brand who embroider or screen print wild animal designs onto well made, organic cotton basics which include t-shirts and sweatshirts for all the family, back packs made from recycled plastic, plantable seed cards and wall prints. Using sustainably sourced, organic and oeko tex cottons to make the clothing and accessory bags and recycled plastic bottles to make the back packs. All of the range delivers exceptional quality that last and wash well making it easier to reuse and hand down, helping to reduce waste.

Email: info@tommyandlottie.com

Visit: www.tommyandlottie.com

Berkhamsted Bees

Beekeepers producing local honey from hives situated in the countryside, Pure unadulterated honey produce, nothing added, no chemicals used, just the pure product.

Cris & Collette - 07896 801073 or 07984 072666

www.berkhamstedbees.com

Facebook & Insta: @Berkhamsted Bees

Hemel Hempstead Community Fridge Highfield Community Centre, Fletcher way, Hemel Hempstead

A charity that redistributes surplus food to our local community twice a week. hhfridge@gmail.com

@Hemel Hempstead Community Fridge

Green Pages

The Cloth Bums CIC Cloth nappies, whatever your goal or budget! Super adorable prints! Keeping chemicals away from babies’ skin, saving parents money and reducing environmental impact of disposables. www.clothbums.co.uk

support@clothbums.co.uk

Earthworks

We support people with learning disabilities (known as Earthworkers) alongside volunteers, to help manage 3.5 acres of beautiful eco-gardens in St Albans, through the practice of social and therapeutic horticulture. We grow fruit and vegetables using organic methods and build wildlife habitats using traditional techniques.

Telephone: 01727 847311

earthworks@earthworksstalbans.co.uk

www.earthworksstalbans.co.uk

Pets In Need Herts

Halden’s Sports and Social Club, Welwyn Garden City, AL71UN

Wednesday 12-2 pm

A dedicated pet food bank within the community. Making a difference to support animal welfare and help support owners.

Telephone: 07867 236 138

Email: info@pinherts.org.uk pinherts.org.uk

Eat Wholefoods

17 Hatfield Road, St Albans, AL1 4JS

Ethically sourced, freshly-packed quality goods, minimal and eco-friendly packaging and refill service

Telephone: 01727 855401

www.eatwholefoods.co.uk

Green Bean Eco Party Packs

We aim to reduce the amount of waste and single-use plastics by providing children's party tableware and decorations to hire at an affordable cost. Help to cut down on the amount of waste ending up in landfill by hiring reusable plates, cups, bowls and accessories. Based in Harpenden

Email: greenbeanecopacks@yahoo.com

Telephone: 07733236133

Facebook & Insta @greenbeanecopacks

Simply Preloved Children’s Boutique

Based in Hitchin

Founded by a Mum determined to reduce the quantity of children's clothing sent to landfill each year and reduce the financial burdens on families of replacing clothes for growing children. If you are concerned about shopping sustainably, the impact of the fashion industry on our planet, and the rising cost of clothing growing children, then let me help you source cheap kids' clothes.

kate@simplyprelovedchildrensboutique.co.uk

www.simplyprelovedchildrensboutique.co.uk

Redbourn Community Food Club

St Luke’s School, Crouch Hall Lane, Redbourn, AL3 7ET

Open Thursdays, 3:30pm 6:30pm

Providing food and support for those in need in Redbourn. For £10 annual membership fee and a £5 (£10) weekly cost, you will be entitled to at least £25 (£50) worth of food.

No eligibility criteria.

For further information or to volunteer please contact Deni Ennals

Email: deniennals2@hotmail.com

Telephone: 07771 786819

Wilderhood Watch

A group of St Albans residents determined to help make our city more friendly for wildlife and people, one street at a time. The Pollinator Highway project involves swapping pollinator-friendly plants amongst yourselves and learning to garden in a more wildlife friendly way. Or you may want to become a Hedgehog Street, creating access holes for hedgehogs and ensuring your gardens are super safe.

@wilderhoodwatch

www.wilderhoodwatch.org

St Albans District Fixers

We are a local bunch of friendly fixers ready to use our skills and experience to repair your broken bits and bobs!

We are appalled by the mountains of waste produced by our consumerist culture and this is our way to help reduce this waste.

For more information and upcoming events go to:

Facebook @StAlbansDistrictFixers sustainablestalbans.org

BambuuBrush

Plastic-free living is not just a challenge; it's an opportunity to make a positive impact on our planet. Let's inspire others by choosing sustainable! alternatives.

BambuuBrush@gmail.com

Entertainment & Attractions

SOFT PLAY CENTRES & PLAY CAFES

DJs Play Jungle 156 St. Albans Road , St. Albans

Indoor Play Area, Birthday Parties, SEN Sessions Telephone: 01442232580 or email: info@djsplay.co.uk www.djsplay.co.uk

Westminster Lodge Soft Play Holywell Hill, St Albans , Perfect for children up to age 8 Telephone: 01727 736080 or go to: www.everyoneactive.com

Maidenhead Aquatics

A fish shop with a coffee shop and children’s soft play area, North Orbital Road, St Albans Telephone: 01727 825815 www.fishkeeper.co.uk

SPORTS & LEISURE CENTRE

Elliswick Lawn Tennis Club

Browning Road, Harpenden

Term time tennis coaching from tots to adults, Holiday camps , Contact Ben Wood for more information: btb_elliswickltc@hotmail.com or call 01582 462529 www.elliswickltc.co.uk

Harpenden Leisure Centre & Swimming Pool Gym, swimming pool, classes, sauna & steam room, creche & café, Telephone: 01582 767722

www.everyoneactive.com/centre/harpenden-leisurecentre

Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre

A swimming pool and gym with fitness studios, table tennis, badminton courts and an on-site bistro St Albans, Telephone: 01727 736080

www.everyoneactive.com/centre/Westminster-LodgeLeisure-Centre

CINEMA/THEATRE/MUSEUMS

Roald Dahl Museum

Interactive galleries, hands-on activities, workshops & storytelling, Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire www.roalddahlmuseum.org

St Albans Museum & Gallery

Town Hall, St Albans, Telephone: 01727 864 511 museum@stalbans.gov.uk www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

Verulamium Museum

St Michael's Street, St Albans

The museum of everyday life in Roman Britain Telephone: 01727 751810 or museum@stalbans.gov.uk www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

ZOOS & FARMS

Willows Activity Farm

Adventure Playground, shows and character meet and greets, funfair rides, tractor ride, farm animals & more Coursers Rd, St Albans www.willowsactivityfarm.com

Woodside Animal Farm

Woodside Road, Slip End, LU1 4DG Farm, zoo and exotic animals, tractor & trailer rides, crazy golf, outdoor play fun, indoor soft play centre and cafe Call 01582 841044 or go to www.woodsidefarm.co.uk

Hertfordshire Zoo

Broxbourne, Herts

Home to over 800 exotic animals & World of Dinosaurs www.hertfordshirezoo.com

FAMILY ATTRACTIONS

Days out with Thomas

Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton, 29th -31st March, Tickets: dayoutwiththomas.co.uk

The Eric Morecambe Centre

Rothamsted Park, Harpenden

The culture and entertainment centre i

Telephone: 01582 767525 or go to the-emc.co.uk

Hollywood Bowl Watford Woodside

Bowling, Parties, Amusements

Telephone: 01442 768760

customerservice@hollywoodbowl.co.uk

www.hollywoodbowl.co.uk/watford-woodside

MARCH

Drop-in Origami Making

2, 9, 16 March

Verulamium Museum, St Albans www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

Meet the Author

Darwin's Super-Pooping Worm Spectacular with Polly Owen

Saturday 11 March, Harpenden Books www.facebook.com/harpendenbooks

Tots Tales

Friday 22 March

Verulamium Museum, St Albans www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

Willows Activity Farm

Easter Eggstravaganza

Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 March

Willows Activity Farm, St Albans www.willowsactivityfarm.com

Lambing Weekend

Saturday 23 March - Sunday 24 March

Oaklands College, St Albans Campus www.oaklands.ac.uk/lambing

Heritage Stories

Sunday 24 March

Chiltern Open Air Museum Buckinghamshire www.coam.org.uk

Spot’s Birthday Party

Monday 25 March

The Eric Morecombe Centre, Harpenden www.the-emc.co.uk

Spring Event Highlights

Little Gym Easter Party

Friday 29 March

Easter party with Basil and Crew mobile farm. £30 per child. To book email: harpenden@thelittlegym.co.uk

Easter: Spring Flight with Skye the Kite

Friday 29 March – Sunday 14 April

Dunstable Downs, Bedfordshire www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Easter Trail: Buzzing into Spring

Friday 29 March – Monday 1 April

Pre-booking essential Shaw's Corner, near Welwyn www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Knebworth Easter Trail

Friday 29 March – Monday 1 April

Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com

Easter Egg Hunt

Friday 29 March, Harpenden Common Tickets can be booked at www.foha.co.uk

Lamb Bottle Feeding

Friday 29 March – Monday 15 April

Church Farm Ardeley, Stevenage www.churchfarmardeley.co.uk

Egg Hunt Trail

Friday 29 March - Sunday 14 April

The Natural History Museum at Tring www.nhm.ac.uk/events

Easter Extravaganza

Saturday 30 March, Tewinbury, Welwyn www.tewinbury.co.uk

Easter Adventures at Waddesdon

Wednesday27March–

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EastercontinuesWednesday10 April–Sunday14April

Embark on a fun-filled adventure at Waddesdon this Easter. Take part in a family-friendly trail jam-packed with games and creative activities that are sure to surprise and delight. Complete the trail and claim a chocolate egg at the end!

Fireman Sam: The Great Camping Adventure

Saturday 30 March Alban Arena, St Albans www.alban-arena.co.uk

Hertfordshire Family Easter Festival

Saturday 30 - Sunday 31 March

Hertfordshire County Showground www.ukmarqueehire.com/easter

There Was an Old Lady who Swallowed a Fly

Saturday 30 March 2024

The Eric Morecombe Centre, Harpenden www.the-emc.co.uk

Easter Egg Hunt

Sunday 31 March

Praewood Arms, St Albans www.brunningandprice.co.uk/ praewoodarms

APRIL

Easter Petting Farm

Monday 1 April

Praewood Arms, St Albans www.brunningandprice.co.uk/ praewoodarms

Willows Activity Farm Holiday Event

Tuesday 2 April – Sunday 14 April

Willows Activity Farm, St Albans www.willowsactivityfarm.com

The Amazing Bubble Man

Tuesday 2 April

The Eric Morecombe Centre, Harpenden www.the-emc.co.uk

Spot’s Birthday Party

Tuesday 2 and Wednesday 3 April

The Radlett Centre www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Easter Storyboats

2, 4, 10, 12 April Frogmore Paper Mill Hemel Hempstead

Event contingent on removal of fallen tree. Please see website for updates. www.frogmorepapermill.org.uk

Easter Holiday Activities

Tuesday 2 and Tuesday 9 April

Chiltern Open Air Museum Buckinghamshire www.coam.org.uk

The Little Mermaid

Wednesday 3 April Alban Arena www.alban-arena.co.uk

Easter Bunny Hunt

Wednesday 3 April

Highfield Park, St Albans www.highfieldparktrust.co.uk

The Walled Garden Spring Open Day

Wednesday 3 April

Luton Hoo Estate www.lutonhooestate.co.uk

Photo credit: Waddesdon Manor, National Trust/Trevor Ray Hart

APRIL

Rude Science

Thursday 4 April

The Alban Arena, St Albans www.alban-arena.co.uk

Amazing Amphibians

4, 5, 6, 11, 12 and 13 April

Spring Event Highlights

The Natural History Museum at Tring www.nhm.ac.uk/events

The Amazing Bubble Man

Saturday 6 April

The Radlett Centre www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Pop Princesses

Sunday 7 April, The Radlett Centre www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Easter Musical Theatre Workshop

Monday 8 April – Friday 12 April

The Radlett Centre www.radlettcentre.co.uk

School Holiday Craft Activity

Wednesday 10 and Thursday 11 April

Burston Garden Centre, St Albans Booking Essential: www.burston.co.uk

Alice in Wonderland

Saturday 13 April, The Radlett Centre www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Herts Big Weekend 2024

Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 April www.hertsbigweekend.co.uk

Inflatable 5k Obstacle Run

Saturday 20 April

Hertfordshire County Showground www.ukrunningevents.co.uk

Charlie Cook's Favourite Book

Thursday 25 April – Saturday 27 April

The Radlett Centre www.radlettcentre.co.uk

MAY

There Was an Old Lady who Swallowed a Fly

Saturday 4 May

The Sandpit Theatre, St Albans www.sandpittheatre.co.uk

Elizabethan May Day

Sunday 5th and Monday 6th May Chiltern Open Air Museum www.coam.org.uk

Kimpton May Festival

Saturday 4 May - Monday 6 May

Kimpton May Festival is a 3 day villagewide event with fun for all the family.

The festivities will include a parade of floats, fancy dress competition, a fete with stalls, games & arena attractions; cream teas, BBQ, Bar, Craft Fair, a side football tournament, junior and senior fun runs, a music night, maypole dancing and much more. There's also an Art Show in the Parish Church that runs in parallel with the festival.

www.kimptonmayfestival.co.uk

STEM Discovery Centre Open Day

Saturday 11 May

STEM Discovery Centre, Stevenage www.stemdiscoverycentre.co.uk

Brambleton Model Railway Club Open Day

Saturday 11 May 2024, Harpenden www.brambleton.org.uk

Redbourn Fun Run

Sunday 12 May 2024

Redbourn Leisure Centre www.redbournfunrun.co.uk

Festival of Ideas

Friday 17 and Saturday 18 May University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield www.herts.ac.uk

Herts Book Festival

Saturday 18 May, Hertford

Sunday 19 May, Ware www.hertsbookfestival.org

Wheathampstead 10k Race and 2k Family Fun Run

Sunday 19 May 2024 www.wheathampstead10k.co.uk

Bubble Rush

Sunday 19 May

Gadebridge Park, Hemel Hempstead www.stfrancis.org.uk

BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend 2024 Stockwood Park, Luton

Friday 24 May - Sunday 26 May www.bbc.co.uk/events

Easter Dragon Quest

Monday 8 –

Friday 12 April

Celtic Harmony Camp Brickendon near Hertford

Get outdoors with the family this Easter for the Easter Dragon Quest at Celtic Harmony Camp! Search for Dragon Easter Eggs, make your own clay Dragon Egg, listen to a Celtic story around the fire, plus much more! Secure your tickets now at:

www.celticharmonmy.org/product/easter-days-out

Hertfordshire County Show

Hertfordshire County Showground

Saturday 25 - Sunday 26 May www.hertsshow.com

Family Fun for Whitsun

Tuesday 28 May and Thursday 30 May Frogmore Paper Mill www.frogmorepapermill.org.uk

Treasure Island

Wednesday 29 May, The Radlett Centre www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Foodies Festival 2024

Friday 31 May - 2 June

Oakland College, Hatfield Road www.foodiesfestival.com

JUNE

Hertfordshire Steam & Country Show

Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 June Standalone Farm, Letchworth www.hertssteam.co.uk

Rapunzel

Saturday 1 June, The Radlett Centre www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Herts Heavy Horse & Country Show

Sunday 2 June

Capel Manor Gardens, Enfield www.capelmanorgardens.co.uk

D-Day Commemorative Beacon Lighting

Thursday 6 June, Highfield Park www.highfieldparktrust.co.uk

St Albans Sustainability Festival

Friday 7 – Sunday 9 June

Alban Arena, St Albans www.sustainablestalbans.org

STAHS Children's Book Festival

Saturday 8 June

St Albans High School for Girls Prep, Wheathampstead www.stahs.org.uk/bookfest

Open Farm Sunday

Sunday 9 June

Woodhall Estate, Hertford Rothamsted Research Farm, Harpenden www.farmsunday.org

Goldilocks Ballet

Saturday 15 June

The Radlett Centre www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Father’s Day Brunch

Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 June Dunstable Downs View Café Bedfordshire www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Mini Beast Safari

Sunday 16 June

Highfield Park, St Albans www.highfieldparktrust.co.uk

Medieval Jousting

Sunday 16 June

Knebworth House www.knebworthhouse.com

The Lion Inside

Tuesday 18th – Wednesday 19th June

The Radlett Centre www.radlettcentre.co.uk

JULY

Festival on the Field 2024

Saturday 6 July

Sir John Lawes School, Harpenden www.festivalonthefield.co.uk

Todd in the Hole Festival

Friday 12 – Sunday 14 July Todd’s Green, Stevenage

Full listing available online! Scan this QR code or visit: www.thefamilybuzz.co.uk

Easter Trail: Buzzing into Spring

29 March – 1 April

Shaw’s Corner, Welwyn Mr Bee’s long winter nap is over! This Easter weekend, visit our charming garden and take delight in helping Mr Bee wake up the rest of his garden friends. £3 per trail (plus admission) which includes an Easter trail sheet, bunny ears and chocolate egg. Pre-booking essential. For more information, visit the Shaw’s Corner National Trust website.

Photo credit: National Trust/Alex Green