Tots Times

Your guide to the first five years Sept-Dec 2013 Free

Easy crafts Win Panto Tickets Find a playgroup

Tots Times FUN TOYS EDUCATION FOOD HEALTH FASHION HOME

Tel: 07866 551151

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Contents Toy shops .... 4 What’s On .... 6 Class Directory .... 7 Daily event planner .... 8 Win Panto Tickets .... 14 Cover story: Our cover girl looks snuggly and warm in a fair isle knitted dress in raspberry £28-£30, novelty hat from set £22 and ribbed tights £12-£14 all from Boden. www.boden.co.uk

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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.

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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.

Copy deadline for next issue is December 6th 2013.

To contact Tots Times call 07866 551151 or e-mail info@totstimes.co.uk

Autumn is my favourite time of the year . Diwali, Halloween, Bonfire Night and then Christmas are all about children and you get to make new family traditions and have lots of fun in the process. We have put together a fantastic guide to what’s on in Leicestershire so you can pick your favourite events quickly and easily. We have also put in a theatre listing so you can see where all the performing arts for the under 5s is happening this Christmas.

Toy shops are on our minds in the run up to Christmas and we’ve taken a look at whether they are relevant now given the advent of internet shopping and cheap supermarket toys.

I hope you have a fantastic ‘back end’ and we’ll see you on the flip side of Christmas with our January issue.

Helen Knapton-Knott

Crafty Corner

This simple craft needs cardboard toilet roll tubes, pens, crayons or paints, sticky tape and a pipe cleaner.

Getting the ears right is the hardest bit. Put your thumbs on opposite sides of the toilet roll tube and press so the edge folds into the middle on both sides and creates the ears. Have a play so you can make the fold neat and then pinch the sticking up ears together so they stay put. Then decorate as a cat or owl. For the cat’s tail you poke a hole in the back of your toilet roll tube at the bottom, fold a pipecleaner in half and poke the sharp ends through the hole. Secure the tail with tape. You can, of course, decorate your owls and cats with googly eyes, glitter, feathers, leaves, paper and more. Just get the PVA glue out and have fun. Send us a picture of your creations!

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Success for Buggy Push Mums and tots in buggies sailed through Beacon Hill Country Park this autumn to raise money for local charity Alex’s Wish.

The Zest4life UK Big Buggy Push took place on Thursday 12 September and saw around 100 people walking, pushing and toddling to raise £2,408.83.

Local BBC TV personality Anne Davis came along to start the event, a two mile circular walk with a stop in the picnic field, where local businesses had set up stalls and cakes were on sale.

Local mumpreneur Dr Joanna Helcké organised the event. She runs a pregnancy and postnatal fitness service Zest4lifeUK, and has always held smaller charity events but decided that it was time to move up a gear.

Earlier this year Joanna met

Emma Hallam, founder and director of local charity Alex’s Wish, and heard about her son Alex’s condition - Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy - how it affects 1 in every 3,500 boys and is 100% fatal. Emma’s charity raises funds for research into slowing down and eventually eradicating

the disease.

The Big Buggy Push was born and both Emma and Joanna were delighted with how the event went. “What a wonderful start to a yearly event. 2014 here we come… next year it will be The Bigger Buggy Push!”

Dr Joanna Helke, Emma Hallam and the Big Buggy Pushers!

We have an incredible & genuine Work From Home opportunity with realistic incomes ranging from £500 per month to £5000+ per month… It’s up to you !!

Flexible hours to suit with no boss, no staff & targets that you can set Join our growing team enjoying a fabulous work/life balance Find us on Facebook at ‘WorkFromHomeGlobalOpportunity’ To receive a 30min overview video about what we have to offer contact Daniel or Keely on 0116 278 4478 or email info@globalopportunity.biz Tel: 07866 551151

Tots Times 3

Toyshoptastic Leicester toy shop Dominoes closed its doors recently, another casualty of the recession and shoppers turning to the internet and supermarkets, so is there still a place for the traditional toy shop on the high street?

Toy shops are often the places children first learn about the value of money and they are exposed to toys and games they otherwise would not have seen. They can be magical places which stay in the memory long after you have grown up.

James Colclough opened Melton Toys in 2009 after he was made redundant from Jessops, the retail photography business. He thinks toy shops still have a lot to offer.

“I think toys are a really tactile purchase. The kids like to come into the toy shop and get their hands on them and get inspired.

He uses displays to introduce children to toys they might not have come across before, like model airplanes and construction toys: “A model airplane out of a box in the window of a model shop, you used to be able to see it and think ‘I really want to build that’ and yet modelling has become almost a thing for retired blokes. “ Most toys are sold as gifts and some people struggle with

Harry Lee-Smith, age 2 at Geoff ’s Toys in Coalville

what to buy. “Most people come in present buying for birthday and Christmas presents, aunties and uncles and grandparents can go on Amazon but look for a gift for a six year old boy who doesn’t like building toys and it won’t help you.”

“We find people do tend to like fairly traditional gifts like toy cars, toy dolls and a lot of puzzles and games at Christ-

mas.”

He says most toy shop owners try to stock toys you can’t buy in the supermarket and have a great understanding of what is age appropriate. They also remember what people like “We get the feedback from people too, we are a fairly small team, just four of us here and we spend a lot of time listening to people’s feedback. We start to get a

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feel for what people are after.”

The hands on nature of buying from a toy shop also helps people remember their early experiences.

James said: “We used to go to the coast quite a bit and mainly I remember toys in shops there. My main memory was me in a joke shop buying a fake scratch for my dad’s car, he went mental.”

At Geoff ’s Toys in Coalville Jenny Cross and her Brother Nick Hall don’t remember visiting a toy shop when they were children because they lived in one.

Jenny smiled at the question and said: “There weren’t any other’s around us. As a toy shop we have been her for 44 years.”

“We give people a service, knowledge and helpfulness.

We try and compete on price but everything else is so important.”

If Leicestershire’s toy shop owners are anything to go by, toy shops will thrive by providing a great, memorable buying experience for children and their relatives, something the internet just can’t do.

Big name brands from your local toy shop

7 King street Melton Mowbray t 01664 565 616 w meltontoys.co.uk

twitter.com/Meltontoys facebook.com/Meltontoys

Gift vouchers availaBle

Melton Toys Top Christmas picks Teksta the electronic puppy Lala Loopsy doll Dr Who 50th Anniversary toys Scalextric DemolitionDerby Quickbuild Rebelle Nerf guns for girls Tel: 07866 551151

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October

What’s On

Sunday 20 October Diwali lights switch on. Stage programme starts 6pm, lights go on at 7.30pm. Events on Belgrave Road and Cossington Recreation Ground.

Wednesday 23 October Children’s Michaelmas Street Fair Melton Mowbray. Children’s rides and stalls for 3 days from 11am onwards in Melton town centre.

Saturday 26 October Halloween Trains - Battlefield Line Railway, Shackerstone. Contact 01827 880754 Hootlingly Haunted Halloween.

Anglian Water Bird watching Centre, Rutland Water Nature Reserve, Egleton, Oakham. Carve pumpkins and make broomsticks and learn about owls from 2pm - 4pm, prize for best fancy dress. Contact 01572 770651.

Wednesday 30 October Continental Market Gallowtree Gate, Leicester. Runs for 5 days 9am to 6pm.

Thursday 31 October Pumpkin bowling for Halloween at Hinckley Leisure Centre 5pm to 7pm. Free event.

November

Friday 1 November Melton Mowbray Fireworks display, bonfire, stalls and entertainment in Melton Town Centre Park. Gates open 6pm.

Sat 2 November Abbey Park Bonfire and Fireworks display. Gates open 5pm, 6.45pm children’s firework display. Gate tickets cost £6 for adults, £4 concessions, under 5s free. Advance tickets cost £4.50 adults, £3 concessions, Family ticket 2A+2C £13 www.visitleicester.info/bonfire Bonfire Express on Shackerstone Railway. Contact 01827 880754 for details.

Sun 3 November Diwali Day celebrations Belgrave Road and Cossington Recreation Ground. Stage events start at 6pm and fireworks at 8pm.

St Joseph’s Firework Event, St Joseph’s School, Coventry Road, Market Harborough, LE16 9BZ. Gates open 6.30pm, tickets cost £5 for adults, £3 for under 18s. Bonfire, fireworks, refreshments and activities run by Harborough FM. Tues 5 November Great Central Railway Bonfire Night.

On the gate tickets cost £7 for adults, £5 for children. Starts at 6.15pm, bonfire lit at 7.30pm.

Sat 16 November NCT Christmas Special Nearly New Sale. Beaumont Leys School, Anstey Lane, Leicester, LE4 0FL. Bag a bargain in time for Christmas. £1 admission (in aid of NCT), children free. 1.30pm-3pm. www.nct.org.uk/branches/leicester Sunday 17 November Winter Food Festival featuring Christmas Crafts, Leicester Market 11am - 5pm.

Christmas in the City - Leicester’s Christmas lights switch on 2-5pm.

Procession starts at 2pm in Town Hall Square ending up at Humberstone Gate West. Santa and friends plus BBC Radio Leicester in attendance.

Friday 22 November Hinckley Christmas Lights switch on and Tin Hat Fair. Fireworks over St Mary’s Church, entertainment, late night shopping and attractions from 4pm - 9pm in Market Place and on Regent Street.

Sat 23 November NCT Nearly New Sale. Shepshed High School, Forest St, Shepshed, LE12 9DA. 11am - 1pm (10.45am NCT Members). Free parking, cafe and top quality nearly new baby wear, children’s clothes up to 10 years, maternity wear and baby equipment. www.nct.org.uk/loughborough Friday 29 November Melton Mowbray Christmas Lights switch on and market. From 10am, Santa’s Grotto from 4pm-7pm, lights on at 6.45pm.

Friday 29 November Tree festival Melton Mowbray. Over 450 magical

Christmas trees to see in St Mary’s Church over the weekend. Refreshments available. Entry £2 adults, under 12s free. Contact 01664 565798 for details.

Saturday 30 November Christmas Winter Wonderland opens at Conkers Rawdon Road nr Swadlincote. Adults £8.95, child £9.95. Carol singers, reindeer, the elf train and street performers from 12pm to 8pm. Contact 01283 216633.

Ashby Christmas Market, meet Father Christmas and Reindeer, carol singing and more 10am to 4pm.

December

Sat 1 December Victorian Christmas Fayre, Melton Mowbray. 10am to 4pm in Melton town centre. www.victorian-fayre.co.uk Loughborough Christmas Lights switch on at 5pm in the town centre.

Saturday 7 December.

Christmas Tree festival at St Andrews Church, Old Street, Aylestone, Leicester. Open 10am - 5pm, Sunday 8 Dec 12pm - 4pm and Monday 9 Dec 10am - 2pm. Contact 0116 2837050.

Friday 20 December Carols in the Den, Huncote Community Centre, Denman Lane, Huncote.

Free admission. Carols on the recreation ground with Enderby Band then free mulled wine and mince pies.

Bring a torch. Father Christmas will attend. Contact 0116 2863826.

Tuesday 24 December Christmas Eve Market Melton Mowbray town centre from 8am to 2pm.

Friday 27 December Christmas Holiday puppet theatre at Conkers waterside, Rawdon Road nr Swadlincote.. Every day 11am - 2pm.

Interactive show presented by Flip and Dippy.

To have an event included in these listings please contact info@totstimes.co.uk or call 07866 551151.

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For Mummies

Puddle Ducks Aqua Natal Harpers Fitness, Wigston Swimming Baths, Station Road, Wigston, LE18 2DP Tuesday 6.45am.

Buggy Bootcamp, Braunstone Hall, centre of Braunstone Park, Leicester 10am every Thursday, session finishes 11am.

Baby swimming Little Splashers baby and preschool swimming lessons, Westfield Junior School, Hinckley LE10 0LT, Wednesday and Friday mornings. Suitable for babies from 8 weeks - 4 yrs old.

Contact Lesley on 07795480496 or lesley@littlesplashers.co.uk or book via www.littlesplashers.co.uk Little Splashers baby and preschool swimming lessons, Winstanley Community College, Braunstone LE3 3BD, Sunday mornings. Contact Lesley on 07795480496 or lesley@ littlesplashers.co.uk or book via www.littlesplashers.co.uk Little Splashers baby and preschool swimming lessons, DeMontfort University Leisure Centre, Leicester LE1 9BH, Tuesday mornings. Suitable for babies over 6 months. Contact Lesley on 07795480496 or lesley@ littlesplashers.co.uk or book via www.littlesplashers.co.uk Little Splashers baby and preschool swimming lessons, Kirby Muxloe Primary School, Kirby Muxloe LE9 2AA, Monday mornings. Suitable for babies from 8 weeks - 4 years old. Contact Lesley on 07795480496 or lesley@littlesplashers.co.uk or book via www.littlesplashers.co.uk Aqua Vie Infant Aquatics Oakham.

Friday afternoon, Saturday morning.

Aqua Vie Infant Aquatics Kirby Muxloe Primary School Pool, Barwell Road, Kirby Muxloe, Leicester LE9 2AA. Friday morning, Saturday morning.

Classes To have a class included in these listings please contact info@totstimes.co.uk or call 07866 551151.

Aqua Vie Infant Aquatics Ridlington, Wednesday morning.

Aqua Vie Infant Aquatics Thurnby, Tuesday morning, Wednesday afternoon.

Little learners Rhythm Time Kirby Muxloe and Blaby Tuesday and Friday mornings Contact: Rebecca Dunford 07701 042119 www.rhythmtime.net www.rebeccad@rtfg.co.uk Little Larks Woodland School, preschool and toddler classes Thursday 10-12am at Ullesthorpe Scout campsite and Tuesday 10am - 12pm at Bradgate Park.

Tiny Talk Baby Signing Class, Oadby Trinity Methodist Church, Harborough Road, Oadby, LE2 4LA. Tuesday from 10.30-11.30am.

Aqua Vie Infant Aquatics Birkett House School, Launceston Road, Wigston, Leicester. Monday afternoon, Friday afternoon.

Puddle Ducks Westfield Junior School Pool, Westfield Road, Hinckley, LE10 0LT, Monday, 9.45am - 11.45am.

Puddle Ducks General Hospital Hydro Pool, Physio and Rehab Dept, Gwendolyn Road, Leicester LE5 4PW. Saturday and Sunday 9am to 12.30pm.

Puddle Ducks Riverside Primary School, Wanlip Lane, Birstall, Leicester, LE4 4JU. Monday 9.30am - 11.30am. Thursday 9.30am 11.30am.

Puddle Ducks Roundhill Academy, 997 Melton Road, Thurmaston, Leicester, LE4 8GQ. Saturday 1.30pm to 4pm. Baby, pre-school and swim academy.

Tiny Talk Baby Signing Class, Evington Leisure Centre, Downing Drive, Evington LE3 6LP. Tuesday from 1.30 - 2.30pm.

Tiny Talk Baby Signing Class, Waterstones Book Store Leicester, 26 Market Street, LE1 6DP. Wednesday 10 - 11am.

Tiny Talk Toddlers Class, The Scout Hut, Stamford Street, Glenfield, Leicester, LE3 8DL. Friday 10am - 11am Tiny Talk Baby Signing Class, The Scout Hut, Stamford Street, Glenfield, Leicester, LE38DL. Friday 11.15am - 12.15pm.

Tiny Talk Baby Signing Class, Birstall Village Hall, Birstall Road, Birstall, LE4 4DH. Friday 1.30 - 2.30pm.

Puddle Ducks Church Hill Junior School, Church Hill Road, Thurmaston, Leicester, LE4 8DE. Thursday 4pm to 5.30pm. Babies Reaching The Parents and pre-school swimming. Friday Other Magazines Cannot Reach...

9.30am -11.30am Babies and preschool swim.

3.45pm - 5.15pm Contact info@totstimes.co.uk Swim Academy.

Your Advert Could Be Here Call 07866 551151

Tel: 07866 551151

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Mother, baby and toddler groups

Leire, LE17 5HE. Suitable for children from birth to school age. Costs £1 including refreshments. Contact Caroline O’Connell 07719 600179.

Hinckley and Bosworth Monday Little Crofters, 1.30pm-3pm, Community Hall, Croft Church of England Primary School, Brookes Avenue, Croft, LE9. Lots of activities for toddlers and pre-schoolers, access to an outside play area, regular cake sales and social events for mums too. Costs £1 for adults, babies free, children over 12 months 50p.

Crazy Babes Parent and Toddler 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. Lots of toys, craft table and singing. Costs £1 per family including drink and a biscuit for little ones and tea/coffee for carer.

Contact the church on 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. Sessions run in term time only. Cost £1.50 per family including refreshments for adults and children. Contact 01455 233798. Organisers recommend you call before your first visit as sometimes there is a waiting list.

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 3.00pm term time only. Costs £1 for parents and carers, 50p per child.

Squash and biscuits, tea and coffee available. 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.

Busy Bodies, 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. Ball pools, balancing beams, climbing frames and more. Refreshments available. Cost £1.50 for one child, £2 for two or more children. Contact Joanna Hill johill57@yahoo.co.uk Tuesday Fleckney Toddler Group 1.15pm3pm (term time only) Fleckney Village Hall, The Parade, Fleckney, LE8 8AY. Lots of toys, craft activities, space to run, singing, juice and biscuits. Coffee and tea for adults.

Contact Pia Odell 0116 2402795.

Leire Parent, Baby and Toddler Group, 1pm-2.30pm (term time only), Village Hall, Main Street,

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. Structured activities, toys and singing, tea and coffee for adults, juice and biscuits for kids. 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) and include play with sit and rides, climbing equipment, puzzles, books, designated baby area, craft table, song time. Refreshments provided, cost £1.50 for one child, 50p for each additional child. Workers CRB checked. 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) and there is free play with toys, a baby area and craft table. Costs £2 for child over 6 months and carer, £1 for baby under 6 months and carer, additional children/adults 50p, snack and drink included in admission price. 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. A good range of toys

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for all ages, crafts and singing. Costs £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.

Baby area, outdoor space, refreshments provided. Cost £2 per family, first visit is free. Contact Debbie Fairlie 07772 486503.

The Friday Coffee Club, 9.45am – 11.45am, The Pavilion, The recreation ground, Coventry Road, Lutterworth. Lots of toys for children.

Cost £1.50 for one child, £2 for two or more children. Contact Sue Atkins 01455 556805.

Oadby and Wigston

Monday NCT Bumps Babies and Beyond 1-3pm (term time only), Oadby Baptist Church, Leicseter Road, Oadby, LE2 5BD, for under 5s, toys, chat and chocolate biscuits. Cost £2. Contact Sarah Woodford 07792 056018.

Kibworth Methodist Pre-School Parent and Toddler Group, Kibworth Methodist School Rooms, School Walk, Kibworth, LE8 0JB. From 1pm to 3pm.

Music and Movement, Salvation Army Hall, Ladysmith Road, Wigston. Parents and preschool age children welcome for singing, stories and play on the soft equipment. Starts at 10am. Contact 0116 2774114.

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, Free play and messy play, toys and activities provided, refreshments available. 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. Toys and craft activities are available along with refreshments for children and adults. 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. Ride on toys and soft play for toddlers, baby corner, craft activities, singing time, drink and biscuits provided. 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. Care and support for parents, carers and children.

Toys, games, messy play and craft work along with story time and singing. Birth to 3 years-old. 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. Music based group with action songs, instruments, bubbles, games and toys.

Free juice and biscuits for all. 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. Sessions run from 12.30pm -2pm (term time only) for ages 0-5 years.

Craft table, story time, baby area, juice and biscuits, tea and coffee.

Every Teddy Bear must bring a child, a grown up and a packed lunch. £2 for first child, additional siblings 50p.

Friday Jellytots, 1-3pm Oadby Evangelical Free Church, North Memorial Hall, Stoughton Road, Oadby, Leicester,

LE2 4FL. Play area, time to chat and refreshments, admission free and we are open all year round, not just term times. Contact Rosie Gray 0116 2713805.

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 to provide advice, support and in a safe and entertaining environment for children aged 0-12 years. Refreshments are available. Cost £1.50 per family. Contact Jacqui Dixon 07841 047485.

The Weaniboos Parent and Tots group, Sapcote Pavillion, Hinckley Road, Sapcote, LE9 4JF. Tots group designed to help parents get children eating healthily and moving around more. Session runs from 9.45am to 11.45am term time only. Costs £1.75 per child with 50p discount for siblings. Includes craft activities and refreshments for parents and children.

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.

Huncote Mums and Tots Group, 1.45pm – 3.15pm, Huncote Community Centre, Denman Lane, Huncote, Leicestershire, LE9 3BS. Toys for little ones aged from birth to five years old and coffee and chat for mums and carers. Costs £1.50 per session.

Tuesday Cosby Parent and child group, Cosby Village Hall, Park Road, Cosby LE9 1RL. Sessions run from 9.30am – 11.30am and include climbing play, tunnels, baby corner, painting and crafts for children up to five years-old. Contact Sarah Fura on 0116 2863034.

Baby Time, 10am-11.30am, Huncote Children’s Centre, Sportsfield Lane, Huncote, LE9 3BN. For babies from birth to crawling. Support from a Family Outreach Worker for issues like breastfeeding, weaning and sleep routines. Contact 0116 2750246.

Tel: 07866 551151

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Blaby Tiddlers, Blaby Methodist Church, Winchester Road, Blaby, Leicester, LE8 4HL, Session 1.30pm3pm (term time only) for under fives, costs £1 per family to include coffee or tea, squash and biscuits. Stay and play with toys for babies and games for older children, outdoor area for warmer weather, singing and storytime and craft activities available.

Contact Gill 0116 2771803.

Wednesday Enderby Skills School, 10.1511am, St John’s Community Centre, Enderby, LE19 2RN. Multi skills and 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. Toys for little ones aged from birth to five years old. Coffee and chat for mums and carers. Costs £1.50 per session.

Whetstone Ducklings, United Reformed Church, High Street, Whetstone, Leicesteshire. Session from 1.30pm-3.15pm for 0-5 year-olds.

Contact Rachel on 07752 686000.

Creative Children’s Group, Community Hall, New Road, Stoney Stanton, LE9 4LQ. Session runs from 9.30am -11.30am. Toddler group for under fours. Contact Sue Taylor 01455 273039.

Thursday Totstime, Sapcote Working Men’s Club, 19 Hinckley Road, Sapcote, Leicestershire, LE9 4FS. Runs from 9.45am – 11.15am, free play with a variety of toys, craft corner and refreshments are available. Cost £1.50 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. Lots of toys to play with, activity tables and refreshments available. 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 (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 include baby area, slides, tunnels, cars and trikes, kitchens, garages and singing.

Refreshments available, costs £1.80 per family includes coffee/tea, juice and biscuits.

Contact Mrs Tipton 0116 275 2353.

Mumstop, Living Rock Church, Station Road, Stoney Stanton, LE9 4LU, 10am-11.30am. Toys and games, tea and coffee served with biscuits for all, singing to finish. Costs £1.50 per family. Contact 01455 270840.

Narborough Toddler Group, 9.30am-11.30am (term time only) Narborough Parish Centre, Desford Road, Narborough, LE19 2EL. Toys, books and equipment for babies up to four year-olds. Craft table every week. Costs £1.50 per child plus 50p per additional sibling. Contact Tamyka Stewart 07805 680022.

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. Session runs from 9.30am to 11.30am during term time.

Contact 01664 482535.

Come and Grow Club, Thorpe Arnold Village Hall. Sessions run from 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. For parents and carers of babies and toddlers. Session runs from 10am to 11.30am. Costs £1 per session. Refreshments available. Contact Rachel Sharp on 01664 464292.

Melton Baptist Parent and Toddler Group, Baptist Church, Bowling Green, Melton Mowbray, LE13 0FA. Each session has free play and a craft table with singing to finish for children aged from birth to five. Session runs from 9.30am to 11.15am. Costs £1 per family including refreshments.

May occasionally be extra charge for special events like bouncy castle and ball pool. 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. For mumsto-be and new parents with babies.

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, including milk for children, tea/coffee for adults and biscuits for all. Contact Carol Cartwright on 01664 857027.

10 Tots Times www.totstimes.co.uk

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.

Loughborough Monday Emmanuel Church Little People, Emmanuel Church Centre, Forest Road, Loughborough, LE11 3NW. Session runs from 10am to 11.30pm term time only. Baby corner, craft area and free play for children as well as activities, songs and stories. Costs £1 including refreshments. Contact Cathy Threlfall on 01509 261773.

Park Road Tiny Tots, Beacon Christian Centre, Park Road, Loughborough, LE11 2HL. Singalong session, craft activities, free play and action songs to end. Session runs from 10 to 11.30am term time only. Costs 50p per family including coffee, tea, squash and biscuits. Contact Paul and Dawn Garner 07885243682.

Tuesday NCT Early Days Drop-in, Gorse Covert Community Centre, Maxwell Drive, Loughborough, LE11 4RZ. Session runs from 10.30 - 12pm term time for bumps and parents with babies up to crawling age. £2.50 suggested donation, includes refreshments. Contact 0844 2436193.

Playhour, Loughborough Baptist Church ToddlerGroup, Baptist Church, 12 Baxter Gate, Loughborough, LE11 1TG. Session runs from 10am to 11am. Fun and friendship for 0-5s and their parents and carers.

Contact 01509 215642.

Playtime, The Schofield Centre, Greenclose Lane, Loughborough, LE11 5AS. Session runs from 10am to 11.30am. Suitable for children from birth to five. Costs £1-£2 per family.

Smiles Mother and Toddler Group, Elim Church, Burleigh Road, Loughborough, LE11 3BA. Session runs from 10am to 11.30pm. Parents and carers of 0-5s welcome. Drinks and snacks available. Costs 50p per family. Contact 01509 234306.

Wednesday Playtime, The Schofield Centre, Greenclose Lane, Loughborough, LE11 5AS. Session runs from 10am to

11.30am. Suitable for children from birth to five. Costs £1-£2 per family.

£1 including refreshments. Contact Cathy Threlfall on 01509 261773.

Thursday Jumping Tots, Fearon Hall, Rectory Road, Loughborough, LE11 1PL. Soft play with trikes and dancing.

Sessions run from 10-11am and 11-12pm term time only. Suitable for children from birth to four years.

Costs £1 per family. Contact Zoe Wheterley on 01509 230629.

Playhour, Loughborough Baptist Church Toddler Group, Baptist Church, 12 Baxter Gate, Loughborough, LE11 1TG. Session runs from 10am to 11am. Fun and friendship for 0-5s and their parents and carers.

Contact 01509 215642.

Knighthorpe Mums and Toddlers Group, Ashby Hall, Rear of Methodist Chapel, 106 Knightthorpe Road, Loughborough, LE11 5JU. Session runs from 10am.

Playtime, The Schofield Centre, Greenclose Lane, Loughborough, LE11 5AS. Session runs from 10am to 11.30am. Suitable for children from birth to five. Costs £1-£2 per family.

Trinity Babies and Toddlers, Trinity Methodist Church (Upstairs), Royland Road, Loughborough, LE11 2EH. Session runs from 10am to 11.30am term time. Play and crafts along with refreshments and songtime. Costs 60p per family per week including refreshments.

Contact Rachel Thorpe 01509 239087.

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 birth to 4th birthday. Costs 50p per family. Contact Katie Schad on 01509 212642.

Saturday NCT Messy Play toddler group, first Saturday of every month except August.10-11.30am, £2.50 first child, £3.50, 2 or more children. Emmanuel Church Hall, Forest Road, Loughborough opposite William Davis car park entrance.

Coalville Monday Little Dragons Den Soft Play, The Marlene Reid Centre, 85 Belvoir Road, Coalville, LE67 3PH. Soft play and bouncy castle. Refreshments for children and grown ups. Session runs from 9.30am to 3pm. Cost: under 12 months £1, 1-5 years £3.

Friday Emmanuel Church Little People, Emmanuel Church Centre, Forest Road, Loughborough, LE11 3NW. Session runs from 10am to 11.30pm term time only.

Baby corner, craft area and free play for children. Costs

Tel: 07866 551151

Tots Times 11

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.

Craft activities, indoor and outdoor play and singing time to finish. Cost £2 per family including refreshments.

Contact Sharon Ellison 01530 817061.

The Big Blue Playbus 10.30am -12 noon Coleorton, The Moorlands, LE67 8GA. The Big Blue Playbus 12.30pm to 2pm Donisthorpe, Ramscliffe Avenue, DE12 7QA. Wednesday Agar Nook Mother and Toddler Group Agar Nook Community Centre, Coalville, LE67 4TN. Session runs from 12.30 to 2pm. There is a lift for parents and carers with pushchairs. A tuck shop operates at the group. Contact 01530 813818 The Big Blue Playbus. Ravenstone, The Plough Pub Car Park, Leicester Road, LE67 2AQ. Session from 10.30am to 12 noon.

The Big Blue Playbus. Ellistown, The New Ellistown Pub Car Park, Ibstock Road, LE67 1ED. Session runs from 12.30pm to 2pm.

Little Cherubs, St Wilfrids Church, Fr Balfe Room, 53 London Road, Coalville, LE67 3JB. Session from 10.30 to 12 noon term time only. Art and craft table, music and story session. Outdoor area in good weather.

Contact Lynda Durcan 07730 141714.

Thursday Sunshine Toddlers, Christchurch Hall, London Road, Coalville, LE67 3JA. Session from 1.15pm to 2.45pm.

Baby area and toys. Contact Tom Ringland 01530 838287.

The Big Blue Playbus. Kegworth, Village Hall, Nottingham Road, DE74 2EH. Session from 10.30am to 12 noon.

The Big Blue Playbus. Oakthorpe, School Street, DE12 7RE. Session from 12.30pm to 2pm.

Friday Little Dragons Den Soft Play, The Marlene Reid Centre, 85 Belvoir Road, Coalville, LE67 3PH. Soft play

and bouncy castle. Refreshments for children and grown ups. 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 any age up to preschool. Refreshments available including snacks. Cost 50p per person.

Leicester Monday Watershed Stay and Play, 9.30am11.30am, free for all (term time only) The Watershed, Upperton Road, Leicester. Planned activities and toys for under 5s. Milk and fruit provided for children.

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.

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).

Friendly welcoming group, lots of toys and activities for the children.

Breastfeeding support and Baby Stay and Play. Rowlatts Hill Children’s Centre, Balderstone Close.

1.30pm to 3pm All babies under 12 months welcome. Meet new mums and enjoy activities to promote development.

Allexton Under 5s Parent and toddler group, 9.30am – 11.30am Allexton Youth and Community Centre, Bringshurst Road, Leicester, LE3 6LP. Contact 0116 2238280.

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. All pre-school children welcome for fun, play, craft activities and singing, 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.

Little Angels, Samworth Academy, Trenant Road, Leicester, LE2 6UA 9.30am-11.30am. Contact Rita on 0116 2830830.

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. Toys, play and activities for small babies and toddlers, juice and fruit available, singing time at the end of sessions.

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. A chance to meet others with young babies in a relaxed setting with toys, baby changing facilties and refreshments.

Suggested donation £2. Contact Rachel Pepa0116 210942 or 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, play mat area with toys, craft activities, singing, fruit for the children and health visitor weighing clinic.

Knighton Nippers, Knighton Free Church, Brinsmead Road, Leicester, LE2 3WB, 10am-11.30am (term time only). Large range of toys and a craft activity. Refreshments are available.

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. Chat, play, sing and planned activity every other week. 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

12 Tots Times www.totstimes.co.uk

(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. Free refreshments.

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.

Crafts, toys, painting and playdough.

Drinks and toast available for a small charge. 9.15-11.15am during term time. 0-4 years old with a parent or carer.

Muffins family playgroup, Hope Hamilton Church, Hope Hamilton Primary school, Sandhills Avenue, Leicester, LE5 1LU. Baby corner, café corner, crafts, stories and toyos. £1.

Contact Jola 0116 2619121.

St Chad’s Stay and Play, 1.15pm – 2.45pm all pre-schoolers and carers welcome. Play, crafts, bible stories and songs. £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.

Wednesday Parent and Toddler Group. Braunstone Civic Centre, 209 Kingsway, Braunstone. £2 joining fee then £1.20+20p for additional children or adults. 9.15 to 11.15 term time Mrs Dexter 0116 2330840 Talking Tots (Babies 1+ 9.3010.45am or toddlers 2+ 11am – 12.15pm at Lansdowne Sure Start Children’s Centre, Lansdowne Children’s Centre, 70 Knighton Lane, Aylestone, Leicester, LE2 8BE. 0116 2298555.

Kids and Carers, Craft/messy play and refreshment (hot/cold drinks, cake and fruit) £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). Crafts, singing and toys. Baby changing and disabled toilet. Outside space and play equipment.

Discovering Babies at Eyres Monsell Children’s Centre, Hillsborough Road, Leicester LE2 9PT. 9.3011.30am (term time only). A session about learning together with your baby including listening, talking, playing, singing and sharing books.

Contact David Chadwick 0116 225220 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, this includes refreshments.

Lots of play for children, a craft every week along with song time and active time. 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.

West End Sure Start Children’s Centre Stay and Play, 1pm -3pm, West End Sure Start Children’s Centre, Catesby Street, off Hinckley Road, Leicester, LE3 5PB. Free sessions of planned activities, toys and fun.

Fruit and milk provided for children.

Contact 0116 2252225.

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. The group is run by volunteers and the cost includes tea or coffee and a biscuit and a drink for older children.

Singing at the end of the session.

Contact 0116 2855379.

Splash and Play, New Parks Leisure Centre, Saint Oswalds Road, Leicester, LE3 6RJ. Swim, crèche time, bouncy castle, drink and biscuit from 12pm – 14.30pm. £3.20, contact Linda 0116 2333080.

Shama Women’s Centre Mother and Toddler Group, 39-45 Sparkenhoe Street, Highfields, Leicester, LE2 0TL. Open 1pm -3pm, £1 admission.

Contact 0116 2514747 The Baby Circle, informal social

group for new mums, new babies and new mothers to be to explore motherhood and birth. Held on the second and fourth Wednesday every month from 10am – 12 pm. Admission £5 to include coffee and cake.

Contact Rocky May and Pam Farmer 0116 2702592.

Stay and Play at North Evington Children’s Centre, 315 Gwendolen Road, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE5 5FS, 1.15pm-3.15pm, free. Please bring children in clothes suitable for messy play and a change of clothes in case they get wet.. Contact Debbie Harris, 0116 2924556.

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. Lots of toys for babies and toddlers, craft activities, visits from the Book Bus and more.

Twinkling Stars, Holy Trinity Church, Regent Road, Leicester 9.30 -11.30am (term time only) 50p per family. Play, craft table with weekly theme, baby area, stories and songs from 11am. 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.

Painting, sticking, water, sand, jelly, pasta, beans, colouring, playdough and more. Spare set of clothes advisable. £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. Creative play and chat plus a simple Bible

Tel: 07866 551151

Tots Times 13

Win Panto Tickets

WIN a pair of tickets to see Aladdin at De Montfort Hall in Leicester this Christmas.

The De Montfort Hall panto returns for Christmas 2013 after a gap of almost 20 years.

Oh yes it is... enjoy a feast of spectacular scenery, costumes, music, magic and panto mayhem.

The traditional panto stars Leicester favourite Martin Ballard as one of the Chinese Policemen, Hardeep Singh Kholi as the Genie of the Lamp and TV soapstar Tameka Empson as the Empress of China.

Answer this question to be in with a chance of winning: Who lives in Aladdin’s lamp?

Email your name, address and phone number along with your answer by 22 November to info@totstimes.co.uk (please put Pantomime Competition in the subject line).

The winner will be randomly selected from correct answers.

No cash alternative or substitution available.

Ticket for performance on Tuesday 17 December 2013.

Conditions may apply.

story, action songs and a prayer.

Refreshments available.

Belgrave Neighbourhood Centre Parent and Toddler group 1-3pm, 50p with kids juice and a biscuit.

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). Crafts, singing and toys. Baby changing and disabled toilet. Outside space and play equipment.

Father’s Only Toddler Group Highfields Library, 98 Melbourne Road, Leicester LE2 0DS. Starts at 2pm.

Free. Toys, puppets, storytelling and crafts. 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.

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.

Playing, singing and crafts. Emma Else 0843 289 2562.

Thrive Community Group, 10am – 12pm, £2.50 plus bring a healthy snack to share on the snack table.

Natural Play, craft and learning opportunities. Stoneygate Baptist Church, London Road, Leicester.

Contact Bianca thriveleicester@ gmail.com 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.

Minikinderkreis Leicester, 10am to 12noon every first third and fifth Friday morning throughout the year.

Evangelical Free Church, Knighton, Leicester, LE2 3WB. A parent and baby/toddler group for German speakers. German games, songs,

rhymes and play for 0-5 year-olds.

Contact Eva Rahman, minikinderkreis@googlemail.com Lets Play 10am -12pm The Exchange Bar, 50 Rutland Street, Leicester LE1 1RD. Bumps, babies and toddler group. £5 entry per adult including hot drink and cake. Toys will be available and the session runs in the basement. A qualified breastfeeding councellor is available at the session should you need information or support. 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 an 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.

West End Sure Start Children’s Centre Stay and Play, 9.15 – 11.15am, West End Sure Start Children’s Centre, Catesby Street, off Hinckley Road, Leicester, LE3 5PB. Free sessions of planned activities, toys and fun. Fruit and milk provided for children. Contact 0116 2252225.

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.

Little Tykes Parent and Toddler Group 9.30am – 11.30am Thurnby Lodge Children’s Centre, Dudley Avenue, Leicester, LE5 2NG. Contact 0116 2412616.

Thurnby Lodge Surestart Stay and Play, 9.15am – 11.15am, Thurnby Lodge Primary School, Dudley Avenue, Leicester, LE5 2EG. Toys, play and activities for small babies and toddlers, juice and fruit available, singing time at the end of sessions.

Contact Shelley Marsden 0116 2924590.

14 Tots Times www.totstimes.co.uk

Tots Theatre Curve Leicester Dinosaur Zoo 22-24 October Hairy Maclary 25-26 October What the Ladybird Heard 3-7 December Red Riding Hood 11 December - 4 January The Little Theatre Cinderella 13 December - 4 January De Montfort Hall Justin Fletcher Live 20 October Aladdin 14 December - 5 January Peppa Pig 12-13 February Hinckley Concordia Theatre Jack and the Beanstalk 8 January - 1 February Loughborough Town Hall The Snail and the Whale 26 - 27 October What the Ladybird Heard 9 - 11 November Jack and the Beanstalk 30 November to 5 January Snibston Century Theatre Aladdin 5-7 December Monsters University family cinema 24 October Embrace Arts Once in a blue moon 20 October Pepito 27 October 1,2,3 Little Pigs 1 December The Y Theatre Bedtime Stories 5 October Huggers Children’s Comedy Caberet 23 October I’ve Seen Santa 23 December Uppingham Theatre Stickman 8 October Alice in Wonderland 10 December

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

Tel: 07866 551151

Tots Times 15

naturally contemporary photography

Portraits . Weddings . Press & PR . Events . Parties

The Studio 17

17 Atlas Court : Coalville : Leicestershire : LE67 3FL. 01530 817135 www.thestudio17.co.uk 16  Tots Times  www.totstimes.co.uk