Tots Times October - December 2014

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Your guide to the first five years Oct-Dec 2014 Issue 6

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Win tickets to Cinderella Alex Winters on Dad dancing and panto Everything parents in Leicestershire need to know

Tel: 07866 551151

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Contents Alex from Cbeebies talks Panto... 4 Win tickets to see Cinderella at De Montfort Hall.... 6 What’s On .... 7 Mother and Baby Groups ..... 10 Cover story: Purple dress and Cardigan Monsoon Stockist Number : 08448110068

This is my favourite time of the year. Gearing up through Diwali, Halloween, Bonfire Night, Hannukah and Christmas, it is one celebration after another. With celebrations comes festive food so I must remember to get out my trousers with elasticated waists again! I had a lovely chat with Alex from Cbeebies about his thoughts on Cinderella at De Montfort Hall and being chased across the street by a mummy wanting a hug! The interview involved lots of laughing and talk about Mr Ben so it was a complete pleasure to do. De Montfort Hall have also teamed up with us to give you the chance to win a family ticket to see the pantomime this Christmas. Tots Time at St Martin’s Tea and Coffee in Leicester on Mondays from 10am -12 noon continues to go from strength to strength. It’s been exciting meeting lots of new people and it only goes to reinforce how important mother and baby groups are to new mums. Lastly, this magazine would not be possible without our advertisers, please use their services and tell them where you saw their advert. Helen Knapton-Knott Editor

All rights reserved. Reasonable care is taken to ensure that the information provided in print and on the website is as up-to-date and accurate as possible at the time of publication. No responsibility can be taken by Tots Times for any errors or omissions contained herein. Responsibility for any losses, damages or distress resulting from adherence to any information made available through this guide/website is not the responsibility of Tots Times. Readers are advised to check listings information with event providers to avoid disappointment. Copyright of all text, pictures and advertisements designed or authored by Tots Times and its officers remains with the publisher. If you are supplying artwork under copyright we assume you have the right to do so. All advertising copy must be accurate, truthful and ASA compliant. You need our permission to reproduce any part of this magazine or associated website content. Views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily the views of Tots Times and services and goods advertised are not necessarily endorsed by Tots Times. Our office is 394 Hinckley Road, Leicester, LE3 0WA. Copy deadline for next issue: December 5th 2014. To contact Tots Times call 07866 551151 or e-mail info@totstimes.co.uk

Tots Make and Taste

This activity is perfect if the thought of making a big Gingerbread cottage is too much for you. Take three square chocolate biscuits, glue them together along the long edges with icing made from 1 tbspn of icing sugar and a few drops of water mixed to a thick consistency. Glue the corners of the ‘house’ together and allow to set. Then decorate with icing and sweet treats. We used minimarshmallows, jelly sweets and silver balls.

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Flu vaccinations for tots

Around 97,000 children in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland aged between 2 and 16 yearsold are to receive the nasal flu vaccine this year.

The vaccine protects healthy children from flu, but will also reduce the spread of flu, protecting others, such as younger siblings, grandparents and those in the ‘at risk’ groups. Healthy children may also get flu and its associated complications, such as pneumonia and middle ear infections. The vaccine, called Fluenz Tetra, is given via a nasal spray and has been widely used in children and young people across the country. In July 2012, the Department of Health recommended that all children aged 2 to 16 years-old should be included in the flu vaccination programme and Leicester and parts of Leicestershire were involved in the pilot scheme which reported lower rates of flu, fewer GP consultations for flu like illnesses and lower emergency department respiratory attendances. Since 2013, 2 and 3 year olds have been eligible for flu vaccination with a newly available nasal spray, and this year the spray is also being offered to 4 year olds. In 2013/14 in the East Midlands uptake rates were around 48% in 2-3 year olds and health experts believe this is set to increase this year as parents become more familiar with the new vaccination programme.

Dr Paul Cosford, Director for Health Protection and Medical Director at Public Health England said: “The nasal spray is quick, easy and painless way to help prevent pre-school age children catching flu and the vaccine also helps to reduce the spread of flu to those who are more vulnerable. “People with certain long-term health conditions are at much greater risk of becoming seriously unwell if they catch flu and sadly, many end up in hospital. The best way people can protect themselves from flu is to take up the offer of free vaccination from their GP as soon as it becomes available. Even people whose health conditions are well managed and who lead otherwise healthy lives should still have the flu vaccine – it’s free because you need it.” Peter André, TV Star and father of 3 who is backing PHE’s seasonal flu campaign, said: “I’m sure every parent will agree that it’s horrible to see your children poorly as you just want to protect them from pain and suffering. The flu vaccination is an easy way to make flu less likely to occur in those you love and to minimise the risk of it spreading to more vulnerable people such as those with long-term health conditions. The new nasal vaccine for little ones means that children can be vaccinated quickly, effectively and painlessly Don’t put off getting the flu vaccine!”

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Cinderfella Alex Winters on Dad dancing and panto

CBeebies presenter Alex Winters is starring in Cinderella at De Montfort Hall this Chirstmas. It will be the second time he has played Buttons and we caught up with him recently to find out more.

“I am quite overwhelmed with the talent. There are two ‘faces’ in it, myself and Kulvinder Ghir but the others have been in things like the Lion King in the West End and Porgy and Bess in Regents Park.” The scripts arrive in October and then rehearsals start in earnest to be ready for Christmas. “I have done Panto for quite a while, I have never done a panto without singing and dancing even though I am a Dad and I have lost all ability to dance. I hosted a dance off for a company called Lollibop I said to the Dads there, how many of you just lost the ability to dance when your kids arrived.? All I can do is step from side to side. I don’t know what’s happened and its not even like I had to give birth. It’s good I will be embarrassing my own kids. It’s only right I do it to my kids through the medium of song and dance and silly walks.” “I have three kids, eight year old, six year old and a two year old who rules the roost” “I didn’t do panto last year and they loved having me around but we had to go and see many others.” As well as Cinderella, Alex will also be appearing in the annual CBeebies Panto . “They are doing Peter Pan. The first weekend of October we are reahearsing and the second week we’ll be performing.

“I like that it’s sort of come away from panto. It’s a Christmas show, Peter Pan performed as a panto but it’s in between Cinderella and a Christmas Carol. I’m looking forward to getting the script for that.” So how does a boy from Wales end up as a children’s television presenter? Well it turns out Alex has always wanted to be a presenter.. amongst other things. “I have always wanted to be a lot of things. I had grown up with a passion for sport, music and performing and I sort of gave them all a go. My awful violin playing in the Glamorgan Youth Orchestra. In football I played for the juniors team of Cardif City but I had a condition with my knees and I left to do performing. I was alert to a lot of things. At one point in my life I was going to be a pharmacist.” “My sister and I used to act out Blue peter. We would always make something, one of us being the presenter and the other person held the toilet tube and pretended to be a camera man.” Later in life a friend saw an advert for a children’s television presenter and he applied. “The BBC never advertises for children’s presnters and my wife said you’d be daft to not go for it.” Although Alex spends a lot of time on the CBeebies set and watches a lot of kids TV he likes to make sure his children see the classics. “As much as I love the programes that are on I have to show my children what I loved. Especially Mr Ben. My little ones think that Lets Play is a real life Mr Ben. It’s compulsory that I show my kids programes like Mr Ben.” This made us wonder if children will remember him in the future like we remember

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presenters from when we were little? Alex has had the odd brush with the children’s television stars of yesteryear. “I don’t often get star struck but last year in the Cbeebies Pantomime it was Derek Griffiths and Floella Benjamin. There was a minute where we were in the rehearsal room, just tape marking out the stage and Derek made his entrance. It was so great and I realised and I’d got this massive smile on my and I glanced at the producer and I gave him the thumbs up. “I think becuase I haven’t grown up in TV, I am just Alex from Cardiff. I remember meeting a couple of my heros, and I like that I am out in public and a child might see me and be excited and think ‘I had good times with him on Cbeebies’, although it’s often the mums who go bonkers and run across the road having left their child in a pram on the other side of the road. That really happened!” Alex is quite lovely but there is another CBeebies presenter who stirs passions in many a mum. Mr Bloom. When we talk about Mr Bloom actor Ben Foulkes he laughs and tells me my voice changes when I talk about him. “It couldn’t happen to a nicer person than Ben. He is so sweet. I love mums. I can see there are just times when you are fed up and all of a sudden Mr Bloom is there with that glint in his eye.” We move on quickly and talk about what he is looking forward to in Leicester. “I can’t wait to go and hit the Indian food. Kulvinder and I are available to be taken out over the christmas period.... we are definitely open to offers. “Leicester for me is Gary Lineker, I always got his sticker in my Panini sticker book, and more recently Kasabian. I am a huge music fan. I am going to send Serge and the boys invites and we’ll see. Let’s get them to the panto. I have been to their gigs and he’s kindly put me on his guest list.” The show itself is exciting him too, written by Leicester lass and Artistic Director of the Hackney Empire Susie McKenna, it is set to bring laughs, songs and more. “Kulvinder brings his sense of humour, I will be bringing readymade relationships with children and the rest of the cast blow us away with their performance. I am really looking forward to being in a high standard panto. It’s fun. “We’ll belt out songs, play with water pistols and I like that each performance is different and everything is up for grabs so I am excited.” Finally I ask what is possibly the most important question, given to me by a youngster when I asked what I should ask Alex. “Would you rather have the Head of a Lobster or the body of a kangaroo?” Alex laughs, then takes quite a while to think it through. “ Kids are brilliant. Me and Andy play this all the time at CBeebies. We have so many versions of this. It would have to be the body of a kangaroo. I can get around and no-one is going to mess with me because of my little boxing arms but I get to keep my face so I could still work. I really like lobsters but that would just be weird.” Cinderella opens at De Montfort Hall on December 13th and runs until January 4th.

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Classes For Mummies

We are giving you the chance to win a family ticket to see Alex Winters and Kulvinder Ghir in Cinderella at De Montfort Hall this Christmas.

Pantomime is back for a second year and a fabulous cast is on hand to ensure you have fun. CBeebies’ Alex Winters plays Buttons, the hilarious Kulvinder Ghir is Baron Hardup, and Tony Whittle and Rina Fatania are both back by popular demand after bringing the house down in Aladdin last year, with Tony as one of Cinderella’s odious Ugly Sister’s and Rina as her Wicked Stepmother. Cinderella will be played by Carly Thoms, with Tania Mathurin as her Fairy Godmother and Oliver Brenin plays the Prince with Eddie Elliot as Dandini. All you have to do to win is answer the following question: In the story of Cinderella she loses a slipper at the ball. What is this slipper traditionally made of? Send your answer, name, address and a telephone number via email to info@totstimes.co.uk putting Cinderella in the subject line. The winner will be randomly selected from the correct answers. The closing date for entries is November 28th 2014. No cash alternative or substitution is available. Conditions may apply. The family ticket is for the performance on Sunday 14th December at 1pm and admits a family of four. Cinderella runs from Saturday 13th December 2014 until Sunday 3rd January 2015. For more information or to book tickets call 0116 233 3111 or visit www.demontforthall.co.uk

Buggy Bootcamp, Braunstone Hall, Braunstone Park, Leicester 10am every Thursday, session finishes 11am. ToddlerCalm, 4wk Parenting Course for parents of 1-4 year olds. Beginning Sunday 26th October, Civic Center, Braunstone Town. Booking essential. Bosom Buddies Antenatal Workshops. 7-9pm Second Monday of every month. Huncote Children’s Centre, Sportsfield Lane, Huncote, LE9 3BN For pregnant women who live in the Blaby, Oadby & Wigston District Carry My Baby sling library dropin. Every Friday 9am - 12pm at 552 Welford Road, Leicester, LE2 6EP. A free drop-in session for sling advice. Browse over 50 slings and carriers available to hire for 2 or 4 weeks, £6-8 hire fee for 2 weeks, deposit payable (£35-£100).

Little learners

Dance and Movement with Melody Bear Baptist Church Hall, Buckminster Road, Leicester, LE3 9AT. Tuesday and Saturday. Dance and Movement with Melody Bear Broughton Astley Village Hall, LE9 6PT. Wednesday Dance and Movement with Melody Bear - Trinity CHurch Hall, Oadby, LE2 4LA. Friday Twirling Toddlers. St Francis Community Centre, Tudor Road, Hinckley, LE10 0EQ. 9.30am Thursday. A la Rueda Rueda Spanish for Kids Early Years Spanish 3-4 and 5-11 years-old. Wigston LE18 Little Larks Woodland School, pre-school and toddler classes Tuesday from 10am, Bradgate Park and Thursday from 10am at Burbage Common. Tiny Talk Baby Signing, The Porta Cabin, Evington Leisure Centre, Downing Drive, Evington LE3 6LP. Tuesday from 1.30pm - 2.30pm. Tiny Talk Baby Signing Cort Crescent Community Centre, Cort Crescent, Braunstone, Leicester, LE3 1QJ. Thursday 10am - 11am.

Katy Lou’s Music and Movement Monday 9.30am Market Bosworth Free Church, Barton Road, Market Bosworth. Wednesday 11.30am St John’s Church, Coventry Road, Hinckley. Friday 10.15am Sport in Desford, Peckleton Lane, Desford. Contact Leigh-Ann 07950 676588, Leighann@katylous.co.uk. Tiny Talk Toddlers, The Scout Hut, Stamford Street, Glenfield, Leicester, LE3 8DL. Friday from 10am. Tiny Talk Baby Signing, The Scout Hut, Stamford Street, Glenfield, Leicester, LE38DL. Friday from 11.15am. Tiny Talk Baby Signing, Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall, LE4 4DH. Friday from 1.30pm

Baby swimming

Aqua Vie Infant Aquatics Kirby Muxloe Primary School Pool,Barwell Road, Kirby Muxloe, Leicester LE9 2AA. Saturday 10.30am. Aqua Vie Infant Aquatics Birkett House School, Launceston Road, Wigston, Leicester. Various days. Little Splashers baby/preschool swimming. Westfield Junior School, Westfield Road, Hinckley LE10 0LT. Wednesday and Friday from 9.30 am. Little Splashers baby/preschool swimming. Kirby Muxloe Primary School, Barwell Road, Kirby Muxloe LE9 2AA. Monday and Friday from 9am. Little Splashers baby/preschool swimming. DeMontfort University QEII Diamond Jubilee Leisure Centre, Leicester LE1 9BH. Tuesday from 10am. Little Splashers baby/preschool swimming. John Cleveland College, Butt Lane, Hinckley LE10 1LE. Saturday 12pm. Little Splashers baby/preschool swimming lessons. Winstanley Community College, Kingsway North, Braunstone Town LE3 3BD. Sunday 9am. To have a class included in these listings please contact info@totstimes.co.uk or call 07866 551151.

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What’s On

Saturday 11 October Shiny - dancers from Turned on Its Head have created a show about two people in a forgotten room finding friendship, joy and treasures. Suitable for 6 months +. 11am and 2pm.

at 11am and 2pm. Flying the Nest, Handmade Theatre Company, Embrace Arts, Leicester. Interactive show inspired by nature. Suitable for ages 4+. Performances 11am, 1pm & 2.30pm.

Sunday 12 October Hands On Tudor Day at Donington le Heath Manor House, Manor Road, Donington le Heath, Coalville, LE67 2FW. Adults £3 Child £2. Diwali Lights Switch On, Belgrave Road and Cossington Street Recreation Ground. 6pm - 8.30pm. Fireworks display and live entertainment.

Monday 20 October It’s Our World. Market Harborough Library and Harborough Museum. Take part in ‘The Big Draw’ activities and enter a drawing competition. On until Friday 24th October. Suitable for ages 4+. 50p competition entry. 0116 3053627.

Sunday 19 October Apple Day at Donington le Heath Manor House. A celebration of all things apple related. 11am-4pm. Adult £3, child £2. Justin Live at De Montfort Hall.Children’s favourite Justin Fletcher brings his show to Leicester. Performances

Tuesday 21 October Egg Box Bugs Crafts at Charnwood Museum, Queen’s Park, Loughborough. 10.15am and 11.45am. Create insects from egg boxes in this art and craft workshop. Suitable for ages 3+. £2.50 per child. Booking essential on 01509 233754. Walking with Dinosaurs, Oadby Library. Stories and Crafts. 10.30am

- 12pm. Suitable for ages 4+. Cost £1. 0116 3058763. Wednesday 22 October Bedtime Stories, Melton Library. Come ready for bed and bring your ted for stories, crafts, milk and biscuits. 6-7pm. Suitable for ages 4+ Cost £2. 0116 305 3646 Mr Peabody and Sherman (U) Family Cinema at the Century Theatre Coalville. Starts 2pm, costs £3 adult, £2 child. Hugless Douglas, Melton Theatre, Melton Mowbray. Blunderbus theatre present a show for little cubs aged 3-7 about a bear who learns there is only one hug that will do. Performances at 11.30am & 2.30pm. Thursday 23 October How to be an Astronaut. Coalville Library. Josh from the Space Centre will talk about how to become an astronaut, there will be hot chocolate and biscuits, followed by space themed crafts and activities. 5.30-

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7pm. Cost £3 per child. 0116 305 3565. Create a Creepy Crawly at Charnwood Museum, Queen’s Park, Loughborough. 10.15am and 11.45am. Make your very own insect stick puppet. Suitable for ages 3+. Costs £2.50 per child. Pre booking essential on 01509 233754. Diwali Day, Belgrave Road and Cossington Street Recreation Ground. From 6pm. Fireworks at 8pm. Captian Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs at Curve. Captain Flinn discovers a pirate hiding in a cupboard and the adventure begins. Puppetry, music and dastardly dinosaurs. Performances 11am and 3pm. Pumpkin Party at Calke Abbey. Bring your own pumpkin or buy one there and decorate it in your own style and add it to their fabulous display. 11am - 3.30pm. Normal admission charges apply. Saturday 25 October Ladybird Celebrations at Charnwood Museum, Queen’s Park, Loughborough. 3.30pm - 7pm. Fun activities to celebrate Ladybird books including themed art and craft activities. Free entry. Ramayana, Curve, Leicester. Follow the story of Prince Rama and his beautiful wife Sita. When you have finished your journey through Diwali, stay and decorate a Deity to take away with you. Performances at 11am and 1pm. Pirate and Parrot, Embrace Arts, Leicester. A small but capable pirate and a gigantic parrot meet in a strange twist of fate. Suitable for ages 4+. Performance at 3pm. Tuesday 28 October Half term Halloween Bake and Play at Woodlands Garden Centre £4.95 per child 3.30pm make your very own monstrous gingerbread biscuit and decorate to take home while your biscuits baking join in some spooky fun and games - Pre book online www.thegardencentregroup. co.uk or in store or call 01455 291494 Wednesday 29 October Postman Pat: The Movie (U) Family Cinema at the Century Theatre, Coalville. Starts at 2pm. Adult £3, child £2. www.centurytheatre.co.uk.

Thursday 30 October Pumpkin Party at Calke Abbey. Bring your own pumpkin or buy one there and decorate it in your own style and add it to their fabulous display. 11am - 3.30pm. Normal admission charges apply. Friday 31 October Terrifying Tots Halloween Party with Real Spooky Animals. Ashby Library. Enjoy a fun Halloween Party suitable for tots and toddlers. Meet real live spooky creatures. 5-7pm. Cost £4. 0116 305 3565. Halloween Creepy Creatures at

Woodlands Garden Centre. 10am 11am 1pm 2pm and 3pm FREE event Get to meet creepy creatures this Halloween such as snakes spiders and lizards - Pre book online at www. thegardencentregroup.co.uk or in store or call 01455 291494 Halloween Tea at Woodlands Garden Centre. 4-6pm Join us for a Halloween tea, ghost busting fun and games £7.95 per child - Pre book online at www.thegardencentregroup.co.uk or in store or call 01455 291494 Saturday 1 November First Aid for parents, Emmanuel Church, Forest Road, Loughborough, LE11 3NW. 10.00am to 12.00pm. £18 per person (subsidised places just £1.80 for those on certain benefits). Loughborough NCT is working with a qualified trainer to offer this short First Aid course primarily focusing on babies and children. The course aims to give you confidence in dealing with minor injuries and how best to react in emergency situations including CPR, choking, bleeding, head bumps, febrile convulsions and meningitis. This course is not certificated. To book a place or for more information email firstaid@nctloughborough.org.uk Messy Play Toddler Group (for

the under 5s) Emmanuel Church Hall, Forest Road, Loughborough, LE11 3NW. 10.00am to 11.30am. £2.50 for the first child, £3.50 or 2 or more children. Children under 1 free. Refreshments for children and adults included. Come and meet other families and take part in the numerous messy activities on offer which can include baking and a variety of arts and crafts. For more information email messyplay@nctloughborough.org.uk Snibston Fireworks Spectacular with LOROS supported by The Fleet Auction Group. Gates open at 5pm. Tickets cost £5 in advance, £7 on the gate. Tickets available online. Abbey Park Bonfire and Firework Display, Abbey Park, Leicester. Gates open 5pm, last admission 7.30pm. There is a quieter firework display at 6.45pm aimed at a younger audience in addition to the main firework at 8pm. Rainbows Festival of Fireworks, Leicester Racecourse, Oadby. A spooky feel to this year’s event including funfair, bars and stalls. Gates open at 5.30pm, children’s fireworks display at 6.15pm, lighting the bonfire at 7.30pm and main fireworks display at 8.15pm. Shoe Kangaroo and the Big Bad Boot, Curve, Leicester. A strapping tale from Garlic Theatre filled with shoes, clowning, mime and puppets. Suitable for ages 4+. Performances 11am and 1pm. Wednesday 12 November The Snowman, Curve, Leicester until Sunday 16 November. The stage show based upon the book by Raymond Briggs and music from Howard Blake. Performances WedSat 7pm, Thur & Sat 2.15pm, Sun 11am & 3pm. Saturday 15 November Light as a Feather, Curve, Leicester. Multi-sensory performance for children with profound and complex needs. Places for 6 children at each performance plus carer/parent. Performances 12pm, 2pm and 3.30pm. Santa’s arrival at Woodlands Garden Centre, Ashby Rd, Stapleton LE9 8JE. 11am Father Christmas arrives with his real reindeer to open his grotto. Santa’s real reindeer will be here until

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3pm you will be able to stroke them and have your photo taken. Monday 17th November Victorian Christmas at Rockingham Castle, Rockingham, Market Harborough, LE16 8TH until Friday 21st November. Step back in time to Christmas Eve 1881. The Great Hall table is laid for supper, Christmas trees welcome you into the courtyard and guided tours in period costume take place throughout the day. 11am8pm daily. Adult £8, Child £3.50. Under fives free. Car parking £3. Saturday 22 November Hansel & Gretel, Embrace Arts at The Richard Attenborough Centre, Leicester. A classic tale retold with a tango dancing witch and her edible house. Suitable for ages 3+. Performance at 3pm. Meet Santa’s Real Reindeer at Woodlands Garden Centre, Asby Road, Stapleton, LE9 9JE. Saturday and Sunday, 11am-3pm. Free entry. Sunday 23 November Embrace Arts Baby Disco - Arctic, Embrace Arts at The Richard Attenborough Centre, Leicester. The hall is transformed into a multi sensory environment, learn dance moves from Alison Bacon and DJ James Kelly will keep you moving. Suitable for ages 0-6. Christmas Fair, Nurture Me Day Nurserie, Lutterworth. Handmade crafts and gifts to buy, raffle, tombola and refreshments. 1-4pm. Saturday 29 November Sleeping Beauty, Loughborough Town Hall, Loughborough. Celebrate Christmas with a family pantomime including Loughborough’s own Royal Wedding. Performance Times 12.30pm & 5.30pm. Runs various dates until January 4th. www.loughboroughtownhall.co.uk for details. Tuesday 2 December We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, Curve, Leicester until Dec 6. Join the intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear. Suitable for age 3+. Running time 55 minutes. Performance times Tue 1.30pm & 4.30pm; Wed-Fri 10.30am, 1.30pm & 4.30pm; Sat 10.30am, 1.30pm & 4.30pm.

Saturday 6 December Robin’s Winter Adventure, Curve, Leicester. Follow a young boy’s journey with his feathered friend. Suitable for ages 4+. Performance times 11am and 1pm. Christmas Craft Show, Calke Abbey, Ticknall, Derbyshire. Opens at 11am. Normal admission charges apply. Christmas Lights and Labyrinths. Calke Abbey, Ticknall, Derbyshire. Explore the twinkling tunnel and the glittering grotto and visit Father Christmas in his stable grotto. Come at dusk and bring a torch. 12pm 6.30pm. £4 per child to visit Father Christmas and receive a gift. Breakfast and Tea with Father Christmas at Woodlands Garden Centre, Ashby Rd, Hinckley - Pre book on line at www.thegardencentregroup. co.uk or in store or call 01455 291494 Messy Play Toddler Group (for the under 5s) Emmanuel Church Hall, Forest Road, Loughborough, LE11 3NW. Sat 4th October, Sat 1st November and Sat 6th December 10.00am to 11.30am. £2.50 for the first child, £3.50 or 2 or more children. Children under 1 free. Refreshments for children and adults included. For more information email messyplay@ nctloughborough. org.uk

Michael Rosen. Suitable for age 3+ and families. Runs until January 3. Performance times Mon-Fri 10.30am & 1.30pm; Sat 10.30am, 1.30pm & 3.30pm; Fri 26 Dec 3.30pm. Saturday 13 December Christmas Lights and Labyrinths. Calke Abbey, Ticknall, Derbyshire. Explore the twinkling tunnel and the glittering grotto and visit Father Christmas in his stable grotto. Come at dusk and bring a torch. 12pm 6.30pm. £4 per child to visit Father Christmas and receive a gift. Wednesday 17 December Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, Melton Theatre, Melton Mowbray. Runs until Sunday 21st December. Performance times, Wed 7pm; Thurs 10am & 1.15pm; Fri 10am & 7pm; Sat 2pm & 7pm; Sun 1pm. Saturday 20 December Hannukkah Light Switch On, Victoria Park, Leicester. Celebrations at 4.45pm led by Leicester Progressive Jewish Congregation.

Sunday 7 December Cinder-Ella KrazyKat Theatre Company, Embrace Arts at The Richard Attenborough Centre, Leicester. A grandfather left holding a leaky baby likes telling a certain fairy story. Performance at 3pm. Wednesday 10 December Pinocchio, Curve, Leicester. A magical festive adventure for families from Hiccup Theatre and acclaimed children’s writer

Tel: 07866 551151

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Mother, baby and toddler groups

Hinckley & Bosworth

Monday Little Crofters, 1.30pm-3pm, Community Hall, Croft Church of England Primary School, Brookes Avenue, Croft, LE9. Costs £1 for adults, babies free, children over 12 months 50p. Crazy Babes Parent and Tots Group, St Francis Community Centre, Tudor Road, Hinckley, LE19 0EW. Session runs from 9.30am to 11.30am. Contact 01455 617185. Tuesday Highham Way Baptist Church Parent and Toddler Club, Baptist Church, Higham Way, Burbage, LE10 2PX. Session runs from 1.30pm to 3.15pm. Contact 01455 631325. Wednesay Desford Rainbows, 10am-12pm (term time only), St Martins Church Centre, 14 Church Lane, Desford, Leicester, LE9 8DG. Costs £1. Contact 01455 444927. Lots for Totz 10am to 11.30am and 1pm to 2.30pm at Hope Community Church and Family Centre, Deveron Way, Hinckley, LE10 0SS. Term time only. Cost £1.50 per family. Contact 01455 233798. Thursday Hinckley Methodist Chruch Mums and Tots, Albert Road Methodist Church (next to Holliers Walk School, Albert Road, Hinckley LE10 1PL. Session runs from 1.15pm to 3pm term time only. Costs £1 for parents and carers, 50p per child. Contact 01455 440697 for details. Friday Chatterbox Mums and Toddlers Group, Newbold Verdon Primary School, Newbold Verdon, Leicestershire LE9 9PT. Session runs from 9.15am – 11.15am. Contact 01455 822736. Busybodies, St Francis Community

Centre, Tudor Road, Hinckley, LE19 0EW. Session runs from 10am to 11.30pm. Contact 01455 617185.

Harborough District Monday Adventure Gym, 9am-11am (term time only), Walton Village Hall, Walton, Lutterworth, LE17 5RR. Cost £1.50 for one child, £2 for two or more children. Contact Joanna Hill johill57@yahoo.co.uk Geli Tots 9.30am-11.30am Evangelical Church Hall, Market Harborough. £1 per family. Contact 01858 434906. Tuesday Snuggs, 9.30- 10.30am, St Nicholas Church, Market Harborough. Cost £1 per child. Contact 01858 462926. Fleckney Toddler Group 1.15pm3pm (term time only) Fleckney Village Hall, The Parade, Fleckney, LE8 8AY. Contact Pia Odell 0116 2402795. Leire Parent, Baby and Toddler Group, 1pm-2.30pm (term time only), Village Hall, Main Street, Leire, LE17 5HE. Birth to school age. Costs £1. Contact Caroline O’Connell 07719 600179. Tiny Tiddlers Toddler Group, Great Bowden Village Hall, The Green, Great Bowden. 9.45am -11.30am. Contact Emma-leigh and Polly 07880235491. Wednesday The Teddy Bear Bunch, St Mary’s Church, Main Street, Broughton Astley, Leicestershire LE9 6ES. Sessions

run from 10.30-12pm (term time only). Contact 01455 283150. Parent and Toddler Group, 1.30pm3pm (all year), Methodist Church Hall, Bitteswell Road, Lutterworth, LE17 4EX. Cost £1.50 per child, £2 for two or more children. Thursday Angels and Monsters Toddler Group, Sutton Elms Baptist Church, 80 Leicester Road, Broughton Astley, Leicestershire LE9 6QF. Sessions run from 9.30am – 11.15am (term time only). Cost £1.50 for one child, 50p for each additional child. Contact Sue Hill 01455 554221. Broughton Astley Tots, Broughton Astley Village Hall, Station Road, Broughton Astley, Leicestershire, LE9 6PW. Session runs from 9.30am – 11.30am (term time only). Costs £2 for child over 6 months and carer, £1 for baby under 6 months and carer. Contact Becky Clarke 01455 283369. Claybrooke Parents and Tots group, 10am-12pm all year round, Claybrooke Magna Village Hall, Main Road, Claybrooke Magna, Leicestershire, LE17 5AJ. £1 per family. Contact Jill Fisher 01455 208153. Friday Lubenham Mums and Tots Group, 10am to 12pm, Lubenham Village Hall, Laughton Road, Lubenham, Market Harborough, Leicestershire. Cost £2 per family, first visit free. Contact Debbie Fairlie 07772 486503. The Friday Coffee Club, 9.45am – 11.45am, The Pavilion, The recreation ground, Coventry Road, Lutterworth. Cost £1.50 for one child, £2 for two or more children. Contact Sue Atkins 01455 556805.

Oadby & Wigston Monday Kibworth Methodist Pre-School Parent and Toddler Group, Kib-

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worth Methodist School Rooms, School Walk, Kibworth, LE8 0JB. From 1pm to 3pm. Music and Movement, Salvation Army Hall, Ladysmith Road, Wigston. Starts at 10am. Contact 0116 2774114. Bosom Buddies Breastfeeding Group, Wigston Magna Sure Start Children’s Centre, 30 Long St, Wigston, LE18 2AH. 1.30pm - 3pm. Contact 0116 305 5282. Tuesday Tots Kids and Carers, 9.30am10.45am (18 months to 4 years) 11am-12pm (babies) The Kings Centre, 56 Bull Head Street, Wigston, LE18 1PA. Contact 0116 2886090. Wednesday Mums and Tots 9.20am – 11am St Thomas’s Church Hall, Blaby Road, South Wigston, Leicestershire, LE18 4SB, Cost £1 per child, (50p for each child thereafter). Contact Kim Bowers@hotmail.com Great Glen Baby and Toddler Group, Community Centre, The Chase, Great Glen, Leicestershire, LE8 9EQ. Open 2pm -3.15pm (term time only) £2 per family per session, first session is free. Contact Aimie Spencer 07590 929114. Thursday Little Conkers, 10am – 11.30am (term time only) Salvation Army Hall Leicester South, Ladysmith Road, off Saffron Road, South Wigston, LE18 4UZ. Free admission, donations accepted. Contact Gail Potts, 0116 2774114. Little Angels Parent and Toddler Group, 10.30am – 11.30am, Blaby Road Methodist Church Lounge, Blaby Road, South Wigston, Leicestershire, LE18 4PB. Contact Margaret Edwards/Pat Cadney 0116 278 6616. Poppets Play-Time, Kibworth Grammar School Hall (The Lounge), School Road, Kibworth, Leicestershire, LE8 0EW. Open 11am-Noon (term time only) for children aged 0-4 accompanied by an adult. Costs £3 (brother or sisters £1 each) per session. Contact Claire Cole 07806 094453. Teddy Bears’ Picnic, Kibworth Grammar School Hall, School Road, Kibworth, Leicestershire, LE8 0EW.

12.30pm -2pm (term time only) for ages 0-5 years. £2 for first child, additional siblings 50p. Friday Jellytots, 1-3pm Oadby Evangelical Free Church, North Memorial Hall, Stoughton Road, Oadby, Leicester, LE2 4FL. Admission free, open all year. Contact Rosie Gray 0116 2713805. Sparklers at St Wilfrids Church, Kibworth. Starts 2pm . Contact Eunice Hayes on 0116 2796154.

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Blaby Monday Twins at Totstime, Sapcote Working Men’s Club, 19 Hinckley Road, Sapcote, Leicestershire, LE9 4FS. Runs from 9.45am – 11.15am, aimed at families of twins or multiples Cost £1.50 per family. Contact Jacqui Dixon 07841 047485. Mini Dribblers, 10.30am-11.15am, Huncote Children’s Centre, The Pavilion, Huncote, LE9 3BN. Football themed activity sessions for ages 3-5 years. Must book. Contact Ryan King 0116 2727523. Bosom Babies Breastfeeding Group, 1pm-2.30pm, Huncote Sure Start Children’s Centre, Sportsfield Lane, Huncote, LE9 3BN. Contact 0116 275 0246. Huncote Mums and Tots Group, 1.45pm – 3.15pm, Huncote Community Centre, Denman Lane, Huncote, Leicestershire, LE9 3BS. . Costs £1.50 per session. St. Peter’s Tiddlywinks, St. Peter’s Parish Centre, High Street, Whetstone, 1-3pm. Suitable for 0-5 years. Admission by donation £1 per family is suggested.Contact Sharon Plant 07983674341. Tuesday Cosby Parent and child group, Cosby Village Hall, Park Road, Cosby LE9 1RL. Sessions run from 9.30am – 11.30am for children aged

0-5. Contact 07748413486. Blaby Tiddlers, Blaby Methodist Church, Winchester Road, Blaby, Leicester, LE8 4HL, Session 1.30pm3pm (term time only) for under fives, costs £1 per family. Contact Gill 0116 2771803. Wednesday Enderby Skills School, 10.1511am, St John’s Community Centre, Enderby, LE19 2RN. Multi sport session for toddlers aged 2-5 years-old. Must book. Contact Ryan King, 0116 2727523. Huncote Mums and Tots Group, 1.45pm – 3.15pm, Huncote Community Centre, Denman Lane, Huncote, Leicestershire, LE9 3BS. Suitable for 0-5 years. Costs £1.50 per session. Creative Children’s Group, Village Community Hall, (opp The Star pub) New Road, Stoney Stanton, LE9 4LQ. Session runs from 9.30am -11.30am. Group for pre-schoolers. Term time only. Contact Kerry 01455 271778 Sparklers Baby and Toddler Group. The Bunning Hall, Main Street, Cosby. £1. Bosom Babies Countesthorpe Sure Start Centre, Winchester Rd, Countesthorpe, LE8 5PR. 10am - 11.30am. Contact 0116 3055170. Thursday Totstime, Sapcote Working Men’s Club, 19 Hinckley Road, Sapcote, Leicestershire, LE9 4FS. Runs from 9.45am – 11.15am. Cost £2 per family. Contact Jacqui Dixon 07841 047485. New Scramblers, All Saints Church Parish Rooms, Church Street, Blaby, LE8 4FA. Sessions second Thursday of each month, 1.30-4.30. Contact 0116 2772588. Whetstone Baptist Church Parent and Child Group, 1.30pm – 3pm (term time only) Whetstone Baptist Church, King Street, Whetstone, Leicester, LE8 6LS. Costs 50p per family. Contact Pat Kenney 0116 2864508 or Church Office 0116 2863145. Friday Sparklers Congregational Church, Park Road, Blaby, Leicestershire, LE8 4ED. Sessions from 9.30am – 11am. Contact Mrs Julie Newitt (Pastor) 0116 2753689. Toddler Town, 10.30am-11.15

Tel: 07866 551151

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(walking – 3 years), 11.30-12.15 (3-5 years), Huncote Children’s Centre, The Pavilion, Huncote. Soft play for under 5s, must ring and book. Contact Ryan King 0116 272 7523. Badgerbrook Toddler Group, 10am-11.15am (term time only), Badgerbrook School, Badger Drive, Whetstone, Leicester. Activities for birth to 4 year-olds. Costs £1.80 per family. Contact Mrs Tipton 0116 275 2353. Mumstop, Living Rock Church, Station Road, Stoney Stanton, LE9 4LU, 10am-11.30am. Costs £2 per family. Contact 01455 270840. Narborough Toddler Group, 9.30am-11.30am (term time only) Narborough Parish Centre, Desford Road, Narborough, LE19 2EL. For children aged 0-5. Costs £1.50 per child plus 50p per additional sibling. Contact Tamyka Stewart 07805 680022. The Ark, United Reformed Church, Chapel Street, Enderby. 9.30am 11.30. Contact 0116 2862625. Tots R Us Thurlaston Village Hall, Desford Road, Thurlaston. 1.30pm 3pm £1.50.

Melton Mowbray Monday Little Fishes, 40-44 Nottingham Street, Melton Mowbray, LE13 1NW. For children aged up to 4 years six months. Session runs from 9.30am to 11.30pm. Costs £1.50 per family. Contact 01664 564022. Pram Club at the Samworth Centre, 8 Burton Street, Melton Mowbray. Session runs from 10am to 11.30am for parents and careers of children from birth to four years. Contact Carol Parker on 01664 857526. Tuesday Sandy Lane Tuesday Toddlers Group, Sandy Lane Methodist Church, Sandy Lane, Melton Mowbray, LE13 0Wa. 9.30am to 11.30am during term time. Contact 01664 482535. Come and Grow Club, Thorpe Arnold Village Hall. 10am to 11.30am. Contact Carol Parker on 01664 857526. Wednesday Little Gems, St Mary Magdalene Church, Waltham-on-the-Wolds,

Melton Mowbray, LE14 4AJ. 10am to 11.30am. Costs £1 per session. Contact Christine Alexander tel 01664 464802 or email wee3alexander@ btinternet.com Melton Baptist Parent and Toddler Group, Baptist Church, Bowling Green, Melton Mowbray, LE13 0FA. Suitable for 0-5. 9.30am to 11.15am. Costs £1 per family. Includes Roundabout Clothing Exchange (good quality, clean children’s clothes for a small donation). Contact Denise Smallridge 01664 850290. Thursday Bumps and Babes, Woodlands Nursery, Asfordby Road Sports Ground, Asfordby Road, Melton Mowbray LE13 0HR. Session runs 10am to 11am. Contact Sam Faulkner on 07726953124. Down by the Riverbank, Riverbank Day Nursery, Asfordby Road, Melton Mowbray, LE13 0HN. Session runs from 1.30pm to 3pm for children from birth to five. Costs £1.50 per family. Contact Carol Cartwright on 01664 857027. Friday Stay and Play at The Cove, Sysonby Street, Melton Mowbray. Session from 1-2.30pm. For children aged 0-5 years old. Contact 01664 502429 for details.

Coalville Monday Little Dragons Den Soft Play, The Marlene Reid Centre, 85 Belvoir Road, Coalville, LE67 3PH. Session runs from 9.30am to 3pm. Cost: under 12 months £1, 1-5 years £3. Tuesday Noah’s Ark Parent and toddler group, The Full Gospel Mission (Pentecostal Church), James St, Coalville, LE67 3BX. Session from 10am to 11.45am term time only. Cost £2

per family. Contact Sharon Ellison 01530 817061. Wednesday Agar Nook Mother and Toddler Group Agar Nook Community Centre, Coalville, LE67 4TN. Session runs from 12.30 to 2pm. Contact 01530 813818 Little Cherubs, St Wilfrids Church, Fr Balfe Room, 53 London Road, Coalville, LE67 3JB. Session from 10.30 to 12 noon term time only. Contact Lynda Durcan 07730 141714. Thursday Sunshine Toddlers, Christchurch Hall, London Road, Coalville, LE67 3JA. Session from 1.15pm to 2.45pm. Contact Tom Ringland 01530 838287. MRC’s Messy Play, The Marlene Reid Centre, Coalville, 12.30pm 2.30pm. £2.50 per child. Contact 01530 510515. Friday Little Teapots, Worthington Pre-school, Worthington Primary School, Main Street, Worthington. Parents and tots group with indoor and outdoor play equipment. Cost £2 for first child, 50p for siblings. Session runs from 10am - 11.30am. Contact 07972271824. Little Dragons Den Soft Play, The Marlene Reid Centre, 85 Belvoir Road, Coalville, LE67 3PH. Session runs from 10am to 3pm. Cost: under 12 months £1, 1-5 years £3. Hall Lane Methodist Church Toddlers, Hall Lane Church (next to the rugby club), Coalville. Session from 10am to 12 noon. Suitable for 0-5 years. Cost 50p per person.

Loughborough Monday Emmanuel Church Little People, Emmanuel Church Centre, Forest Road, Loughborough, LE11 3NW. Session runs from 10am to 11.30pm term time only. Costs £1. Contact Cathy Threlfall on 01509 261773. Park Road Tiny Tots, Beacon Christian Centre, Park Road, Loughborough, LE11 2HL. Session from 10 to 11.30am term time only. 50p per family. Contact Paul and Dawn

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Garner 07885243682. Little Stars Loughborough Baptist Church, Baxter Gate, Loughborough. Starts 1.30pm. Knightthorpe Parent and Toddler Group Knightthorpe Methodist Church, 106 Knightthorpe Road, Loughborough, LE11 5JU. Starts 1.30pm, contact Anne tel: 01509 502994. Tuesday NCT Early Days Drop-in, Gorse Covert Community Centre, Maxwell Drive, Loughborough, LE11 4RZ. Session from 10.30 - 12pm term. £2.50 suggested donation. Contact 0844 2436193. Playtime, The Schofield Centre, Greenclose Lane, Loughborough, LE11 5AS. 10am to 11.30am. Suitable for 0-4. Costs £1-£2 per family. Smiles Mother and Toddler Group, Elim Church, Burleigh Road, Loughborough, LE11 3BA. Session from 10am to 11.30pm. Parents and carers of 0-5s welcome. Costs 50p per family. Contact 01509 234306. Baby Song followed by Tiny Tots Loughborough Salvation Army opposite St Mary’s Catholic Church, Ashby Road. Start 1.30pm. Contact Joyce Boswell on 0116 220 9779 Wednesday Playtime, The Schofield Centre, Greenclose Lane, Loughborough, LE11 5AS. Session from 10am to 11.30am. Suitable for children from birth to five. Costs £1-£2 per family. Toddlers’ Church, All Saints’ Church, Thorpe Acre with Dishley, Thorpe Acre Road, Loughborough. LE11 4LF. 10am to 11.30am term time only. Contact www.astad.org or Chris Milner 01509 236789 Thursday Playtime, The Schofield Centre, Greenclose Lane, Loughborough, LE11 5AS. Session runs from 10am to 11.30am. Suitable for children from 0-5. Costs £1-£2 per family. Jumping Tots, Fearon Hall, Rectory Road, Loughborough, LE11 1PL. Sessions run from 10-11am and 11-12pm term time only. Suitable for 0-4 years. Costs £1 per family. Contact Zoe Wheterley on 01509 230629. Trinity Toddler Group, Trinity Methodist Church (Upstairs),

Royland Road, Loughborough, LE11 2EH. Session runs from 10am to 11.30am term time. Costs £1 per family. Contact church office 01509 807411 Friday Emmanuel Church Little People, Emmanuel Church Centre, Forest Road, Loughborough, LE11 3NW. Session runs from 10am to 11.30pm term time only. Costs £1. Contact Cathy Threlfall on 01509 261773. Good Shepherd Parent and Toddler Club, Church of the Good Shepherd, Park Road, Loughborough, LE11 2HJ. Session runs from 10am to 11.30am for children from 0-4. Costs 50p per family. Contact Katie Schad on 01509 212642. Refuel Hathern Play and support group for parents/carers and under 5s. From 10am, Hathern Village Hall, Dovecote St. Cost £2 per family. Contact refuelhathern@gmail. com or www.facebook.com/refuelhathern

Leicester Monday Watershed Stay and Play, 9.30am11.00am, for under 5s. Free entry. The Watershed, Upperton Road, Leicester. Tots Time at St Martin’s Tea and Coffee shop, St Martin’s Square, Leicester. 10 am - 12 noon, free to attend. Babies and children welcome. Craft activity and toys for fun play. Drinks and snacks available. Stay and Play at Lansdowne Sure Start Children’s Centre. 9.30-11am (Free for all preschoolers, bump to 5). Lansdowne Children’s Centre, 70 Knighton Lane, Aylestone, Leicester, LE2 8BE. 0116 2298555. Buggy Buddies, New Parks Methodist Church, Battersbee Road, Leicester, LE3 9LD. Session from 1.30pm-3.00pm for children aged 0-4 years. Contact 0116 231 3957. Stay and Play Braunstone Children’s Centre, Gallards Hill, LE3 3BD. 1pm2.45pm. Contact 0116 3737150. Child’s Play Parent and Toddler Group, St Mary’s Church Hall, Lidster Close off Main Street, Humberstone, Leicester LE5 1AD. Children aged 0-5 years, £2 including refreshments, 9am - 11am (term time only).

Breastfeeding support and Baby Stay and Play. Rowlatts Hill Children’s Centre, Balderstone Close. 1.30pm to 3pm All babies under 12 months welcome. Little Treasures Parents and Tots Group, 9.30am – 11.30am (term time only). All Nations Centre, 10 Frog Island, opposite Slater Primary School, Leicester, LE3 5AG. Cost 50p per family. Contact Rachel Barford/ Liz Carvell All Nations Church Leicester 0116 2623222. Stay and Play, Northfields and Humberstone Children’s Centre, Gypsy Lane, 1.30pm to 3pm. Scraptoft Valley Stay and Play, 1.10pm – 3pm Scraptoft Valley Primary School, New Romney Crescent, Leicester LE5 1NH. Contact 0116 2413444. Thurnby Lodge Surestart Stay and Play, 1.15pm – 3pm, Thurnby Lodge Primary School, Dudley Avenue, Leicester, LE5 2EG. Contact Shelley Marsden 0116 2924590. Tuesday National Childbirth Trust Bumps, Babies and Beyond group, 10am – 12pm, Leicester Unitarian Chapel Hall, East Bond Street, City Centre, Leicester, LE1 4SX. Suggested donation £2. Contact Miriam Stevenson 0116 2895648. Stay and Play Parent and Toddler Group Avebury Meadows Children’s Centre, Avebury Avenue, Leicester from 9.30am -11am. Free entry. Knighton Nippers, Knighton Free Church, Brinsmead Road, Leicester, LE2 3WB, 10am-11.30am (term time only). 0-4 years accompanied by parents or carers. Contact 0116 2704101. Babytime, Sure Start children’s Centre, Winstanley School, Kingsway, Braunstone Town, Leicester 10-11.30am. For babies and parents/ carers from birth to 6 months. Free. Open all year. Mums and Tots, 9.30-11.30am Term Time.Aylestone Baptist Church, Lutterworth Road, Aylestone, Leicester LE2 8PE. £1.50 per family, drinks and biscuits provided. Contact Beth 0116 2992179 or Church Office 0116 2832527. Parent and Toddler Group, Leicester Apostolic Church, Sanvey Lane, Aylestone, Leicester. 9.30- 11.30am

Tel: 07866 551151

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(term time only). Contact Pastor Richard Forman, 0116 275 2582 Baby and Toddler Group Christchurch, Clarendon Park Road, Leicester LE2 3AH. Children up to 3.5 years. 9.30-11.30am (term time only) £1.50 per family. Judgemeadow Toddler Group Judgemeadow Community College, Marydene Drive, Evington Leicester LE5 6HP. Meets 10am to 12pm. Contact 0116 2128759. Tots Time @ St Hugh’s, St Hugh’s Church, Sturdee Road, Leicester. 9.15-11.15am during term time. 0-4 years old with a parent or carer. Breastfeeding group, West End Children’s Centre, Catesby Street, 1.30pm to 3pm, contact 0116 2252225. Muffins family playgroup, Hope Hamilton Church, Hope Hamilton Primary school, Sandhills Avenue, Leicester, LE5 1LU. £1. Contact Jola 0116 2619121. Stay and Play for under 1s, Rowley Fields Children’s Centre, LE3 1AH. 1.30pm - 3pm. St Chad’s Stay and Play, 1.15pm – 2.45pm all pre-schoolers and carers welcome. £1 per session includes tea/squash. St Chad’s Parish Centre, Coleman Road, Leicester LE5 4LH. Scraptoft Valley Stay and Play, 9am – 11.30pm Scraptoft Valley Primary School, New Romney Crescent, Leicester LE5 1NH. Contact 0116 2413444. Rowlatts Hill Stay and Play, 1pm -3pm. 0-8 years. Balderstone Close, Leicester LE5 4ES. Contact 0116 2924500. Hamilton Stay and Play, 9.30am11.30am, 0-8 years. Hamilton Children’s Centre, 75 Maidenwell Ave, Hamilton, Leicester, LE5 1TG. Contact 0116 2946134. Wednesday Parent and Toddler Group. Braunstone Civic Centre, 209 Kingsway, Braunstone. £2 joining fee then £1.50+20p for additional children or adults. 9.15 to 11.15 term time. Contact Karen 0116 2892357 or Joe 07885 200537. Kids and Carers, £2. The Big Shed, Covenant Life Church, 93 Commercial Square, Freemens Common, Leicester LE2 7SR. Parking permits

can be collected from reception. Contact Deborah 07816 252995 Kids & Co Friends Meeting House 16 Queens Road (near Victoria Park) Leicester LE2 1WP. For under fives, meets 9.30-11.30 £2.20 per family (plus 20p for refreshments). Discovering Babies at Eyres Monsell Children’s Centre, Hillsborough Road, Leicester LE2 9PT. 9.3011.30am (term time only). Contact David Chadwick 0116 225220 Bosom Buddies breastfeeding group, Braunstone Town Sure Start Centre, Kingsway North, Braunstone Town, LE3 3BD, 10am - 11.30pm. Contact 0116 305 4217. Stay and Play Greenfields Play Centre (off Haddenham Road) LE3 2AA. 1.30pm - 3pm. Contact 0116 225 2225. Tot Zone, New Trinity Church,

Upper Tichborne Street, Leicester, LE2 1GL. 10am-11.30am (term time only) for 0-4 year olds. Admission 50p for first child and 10p for further children. Contact Claire Prestwich 0116 2339161. Allexton Under 5s, Parent and toddler 9.30am – 11.30am Allexton Youth and Community Centre, Bringshurst Road, Leicester, LE3 6LP. Contact 0116 2238280. Happy Families, 10am-11.30am (term time only) Robert Hall Memorial Church, 147 Narborough Road, Leicester, LE3 0PD. Costs 80p per session and first session is free. Contact 0116 2855379. Stay and Play at North Evington Children’s Centre, 315 Gwendolen Road, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE5 5FS, 1.15pm-3.15pm, free. Contact Debbie Harris, 0116 2924556. Wednesday Fun Time, 10am 11.30am. The PLAce, 70 Knighton Lane, Leicester, LE2 8BE. Fun activity session for 0-5s £4 entry (1 adult, 1 child) additional people £1 each. Contact 0116 2291994. Stay and Play, Northfields and Humberstone Children’s Centre,

343 Gypsy Lane, Leicester, LE4 9DD, 1.30pm to 3pm. Health visitor on site. Contact Julie Allen 0116 2924580. Spinney Hill Mothers and Toddlers, 1pm -3pm Community Centre, Spinney Hill, Ventnor Street, Leicester, LE5 5EZ Contact 0116 2734836. Thursday Pram Club, St Anne’s Church Hall, Letchworth Road, Leicester 1.30pm to 3pm, Admission £1 including refreshments. Twinkling Stars, Holy Trinity Church, Regent Road, Leicester 9.30 -11.30am (term time only) 50p per family. Contact Frances Watts wattsfrances@tiscali.co.uk Step by Step Messy Play Session, 9.30am – 11.30am, St Aidan’s Church Hall, St Oswalds Road, Leicester LE3. For children up to the age of 5. £1.50 per child. Contact Janine Gibson, 07875 465297. Sunflowers Amy Street Base, Leicester City Vineyard, 64 Amy Street, Braunstone, Leicseter LE3 2FB - 10-12pm term time. 0-4 yearolds. Free but waiting list. Call before attending. 0116 3678211. Shake Rattle and Roll, 10am – 11.30am (term time only) The Church of the Matyrs, Westcotes Drive, Leicester, LE3 0QT. Belgrave Neighbourhood Centre Parent and Toddler group 1-3pm, 50p. Contact Pravin Ruparelia 0116 2221004. Kids & Co Friends Meeting House 16 Queens Road (near Victoria Park) Leicester LE2 1WP. For under fives, meets 9.30-11.30 £2.20 per family (plus 20p for refreshments). Father’s Only Toddler Group Highfields Library, 98 Melbourne Road, Leicester LE2 0DS. Starts at 2pm. Free. Contact 0116 2995494 Moat Under Fives, Moat Community College, Maidstone Road, Leicester, LE2 0TU. 1pm to 3pm. Contact 0116 2625705 Scraptoft Valley Stay and Play, 9am – 11.30pm Scraptoft Valley Primary School, New Romney Crescent, Leicester LE5 1NH. Contact 0116 2413444. Breastfeeding Group, Braunstone Children’s Centre, Gallards Hill, 12.30pm - 2pm. Contact 0116 3737150.

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Friday Tots ‘n’ Toys Manor House Neighbourhood Centre, Haddenham Road, Leicester 10-11.30am term time. Baby and toddler group for the under 5s run by Mosaic Church. Emma Else 0843 289 2562. Discovering Babies (0-6 months) 9.30-10.45am Peek-a-boo Babies (612 months) 11am -12.15pm at Lansdowne Sure Start Children’s Centre, Lansdowne Children’s Centre, 70 Knighton Lane, Aylestone, Leicester, LE2 8BE. 0116 2298555. Stay and Play, West End Neighbourhood Centre, Andrewes Street, LE3 5PA. 9.30-11am. Bumps Babies and Toddler Group, 10am -12pm The Exchange Bar, 50 Rutland Street, Leicester LE1 1RD. Free to attend from 9.30am to 12 noon. Breastfeeding counsellor Dana on hand to help. Contact 0116 2513434. St Aidans Mothers and Toddlers Group, 9am to 11.30am St Aidan’s Church Hall, St Oswalds Road, Leicester, LE3 6RJ. Contact 0116 2878731. Hop Stay and Play, 1.30 – 3pm. Church of the Matyrs Church Hall, 19 Westcotes Drive, Leicester LE3 0QT. In association with Hopscotch Playgroup, toys for babies and toddlers plus an ABC Music and Me session. Cost £1.50 per family, tea and coffee for grown-ups, milk and biscuits for toddlers. All ages welcome. Contact Lorraine Pointon 07909 948943. Little Angels, Samworth Academy, Trenant Road, Leicester, LE2 6UA 9.30am-11.30am. Contact Rita on 0116 2830830. Spinney Hill Mothers and Toddlers, 1pm -3pm Community Centre, Spinney Hill, Ventnor Street, Leicester, LE5 5EZ Contact 0116 2734836. Thurnby Lodge Surestart Stay and Play, 9.15am – 11.15am, Thurnby Lodge Primary School, Dudley Avenue, Leicester, LE5 2EG. Contact Shelley Marsden 0116 2924590. Stay and Play Braunstone Children’s Centre, Gallards Hill, 9.30 - 11.15am. Stay and Play Netherhall children’s Centre, 10am-12pm. 0-8 years. New Romney Crescent, Leicester, LE5 1NH. Contact 0116 2924540

Leicester and Leicestershire Libraries toddler times and under 5s sessions Glenfield: 2.15 - 2.45pm Leicester Aylestone: 9.30 - 11.30am, Tuesday Beaumont Leys: 9.30 11.30am, Thursday Belgrave: 10am - 12.00pm, Tuesday Braunstone: 9.30 - 11.30am, Wednesday Leicester Central: 10am 12.00pm, Friday Evington: 10am – 12pm, Tuesday Fosse: 1pm – 3pm, Monday Hamilton: 10am - 12pm, Wednesday Highfields: 10am - 12pm, Tuesday Knighton: 10am - 12pm, Wednesday New Parks: 9.30am - 11.30am, Thursday Rushey Mead: 10am - 12pm, Friday St Barnabas: 10am - 12pm, Thursday St Matthews: 1.30 - 3.30pm, Saturday Westcotes: 10am - 12pm, Wednesday

Leicestershire Blaby: 10.15am - 10.45am Thursday, first Thursday of the month 10am - 10.30am Saturday, third Saturday of the month

Monday, first and third Monday of the month Birstall: 10am - 10.30am Monday, every other Monday Loughborough: 10.30-11am Monday, every week Shepshed: 10am - 10.30am Thursday, every other Thursday Syston: 10am - 10.30am Thursday, every other Thursday Broughton Astley: 10am 10.30am Monday, every other Monday Lutterworth: 10am - 10.30am Tuesday, every other Tuesday Market Harborough: 10am 10.30am Tuesday, every week Earl Shilton: 10.30am -11am Monday, first and third Monday of the month Hinckley: 9.45am - 10.15am Tuesday. Tickets from library helpdesk from 9.30am on Tuesday. Melton: 2pm - 2.30pm Wednesday, every week Ashby: 10.30am - 11.30am Friday, every other Friday Coalville: 9.45am - 10.15am Thursday, every week Oadby: 2pm - 2.30pm Wednesday, every week Wigston: 10am - 10.30am Tuesday, every week Fleckney: 10-10.30am first Friday of the month.

Tel: 07866 551151

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16  Tots Times  www.totstimes.co.uk


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