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IN THIS ISSUE
Education What’s On Easter Fun Environment Holiday Clubs
Issue 22 March/April 2022
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CONTENTS
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CONTENTS
Welcome
CONTACT US:
We’re really looking forward to spring here at Families and in preparation, here’s our Easter magazine.
Editor: Rebecca Carr
With fuel bills rocketing, saving energy is on everyone’s mind. Get the kids involved in cutting the cost and easing pressure on the environment – read our suggestions on how to do this.
T: 07789 882467 E: Editor@Familieskent.co.uk
Advertising sales: Amanda Biggs T: 07835 848066 E: amanda@familiespublishing.co.uk
Next issue: May/June Booking deadline: 4 April To receive free copies of Families Kent for your school, club, class or venue, call or email us. Readership of over 40,000 local parents, carers and teachers every issue. Published six times a year. For families from birth to twelve.
IN THIS ISSUE: 4 News 6 Education 9 Environment 10 Parenting 11 Travel 12 Easter Family Fun 14 What’s On 15 Easter Holiday Clubs Cover image:
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Are you nervously waiting to find out the results of your school application? We have suggestions on what to do if you don’t get your first choice. Also, find out more about Forest School. Plus, it’s time to embrace going out with some great entertainment options from our Easter Fun and What’s On guide. Finally, we have lots of Doodlejamz to give away! Apply for this squishy, squashy, sensory – but mess-free - drawing toy for your child. And, if you haven’t signed up to receive our digital magazine and enjoy additional, interactive content, you can do this at familiesmag.co.uk/go to receive every issue free to your inbox.
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Families Kent Magazine is distributed bi-monthly throughout East and West Kent. You can get a copy FREE from: schools, nurseries, playgroups, clubs and classes, sports centres, children’s libraries, and other family-related venues. If you would like to copies to give to parents, please get in touch.
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Families Kent 3
NEWS
Perform classes will build your child’s confidence Perform puts children’s social development at the heart of their weekly sessions for 4-7s and 7-12s. Using performing arts-based games and inspiring activities, their classes are designed to boost confidence, build concentration, develop communication skills and hone coordination – and are brimming with fun and laughter too. Run by professionally trained actors, dancers and singers, classes are kept small to ensure individual attention, with regular progress reports provided. Fantastic termly resources – such as free apps, music downloads and dance videos - support each theme, meaning the fun continues at home. The beaming smile you see when Annabelle finishes a class is so wonderful to see. She has grown in confidence and thoroughly enjoys it. – Katie Pashley Children can join at any point during the term and will still take part in the end of term performance. Classes are for all abilities. Book a no-obligation FREE trial class to get started at perform.org.uk/try. Families readers receive a £40 discount when booking before 31 March, just quote KE310322.
More about Perform’s weekly classes Confidence building drama classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. A unique mix of fun drama games, dance and singing specially designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and co-ordination. Local class venues Ashford: St Mary’s Community Centre, TN24 9LH Bexley: St John Fisher Catholic Church Hall, DA5 1AP Faversham: West Faversham Community Centre, ME13 7RH Hempstead: Hempstead Valley Community Centre, ME7 3PD Kings Hill: Kings Hill Community Hall, ME19 4LG Langton Green: Langton Green Village Hall, TN3 0JJ Maidstone: St Pauls Church, ME14 2AN Riverhead: Riverhead Village Hall, TN13 2EL Sevenoaks: The Parish Church of St Luke, TN13 1XT Tonbridge: St John’s Church Centre, TN11 9HT Tunbridge Wells: Christ Church Centre, TN1 1UT
Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class, email enquiries@perform.org.uk or call 020 7255 9120. Don’t forget the code KE310322 for a £40 saving!
Special offer for Families Kent readers! Perform is offering Families Kent readers a special £40 introductory discount on bookings made by 31 March – just quote KE310322.
4 Families Kent
Book now for Mother’s Day Weekend at Hever Castle Show mum you care by celebrating at Hever Castle & Gardens this Mother’s Day. Enjoy a family day out at the historic Castle and stunning gardens over the weekend of 26 and 27 March. Children can take part in a free workshop to make a keyring or pose for a family photo in the Mother’s Day frame with the beautiful Castle as your background. Explore the historic Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, work up an appetite with a wander around the stunning 125 acre grounds or let the kids run off some energy in the Tudor Towers adventure playground or the Acorn Dell natural play area. As well as the Mother’s Day themed activities a visit to Hever Castle in spring offers a great chance to explore the stunning gardens and enjoy the dazzling display of daffodils. Celebrate with a tempting afternoon tea of freshly prepared finger sandwiches, savouries and a delicious array of cakes and desserts (pre-booking essential) in the Pavilion Restaurant. This is accompanied with a selection of hot and cold beverages with each guest treated to a complimentary glass of sparkling wine (adults only) or elderflower fizz. Afternoon teas must be pre-booked by 3pm on Tuesday 22 March. For more information, to download a menu or to make a reservation, visit www.hevercastle.co.uk
The Little Welly returns to Sevenoaks this May Let your kids Go Wild, get messy and have the ‘best day ever!’ Get ready for a whole dollop of outdoor, crazy fun as The Little Welly – the UK’s largest obstacle course for children returns on the 14 and 15 May. Specially created for kids, The Little Welly obstacle course has more than 30 challenges over the 3 or 5km routes. They include a huge water slide, foam pit and of course, mud! The course is reimagined every year to challenge kids (and their parents!) in a fun, unique and safe environment with a cool medal at the end. But there’s so much more to enjoy, the Little Welly Festival Village has something for all the family including inflatables, the climbing wall, trampolines, caving and hamster balls. There’s live music throughout the day and a full schedule of entertainers in the Show Tent. Find out more at www.thelittlewelly.co.uk Familiesonline.co.uk
NEWS
Plastic-free Red Nose Day! Red Nose Day 2022 will return on Friday 18 March and will feature a collection of the “wildest bunch” of character noses yet. There will be eight characters to track down, including the colourful Cam the chameleon. All Noses will be 100% plastic free, making them green as well as red. Red Nose Day is a campaign created by Comic Relief to help raise awareness of and put an end to child poverty. So why not buy some red noses and help raise money to keep children safe, healthy and educated? As well as making a donation, you can find tips on creating your own fundraiser or planning a school fundraising event at www.rednoseday.com
Little Rockers and Rockstars at Clip ‘n Climb, Tonbridge Clip ‘n Climb in Tonbridge are happy to announce the launch of Little Rockers Toddler Session, fun walls for 2-4 year olds which is now open. The toddler session runs every Wednesday during term time at 10am and costs £12 for 1 hour.
Weald of Kent Country Craft Show The perfect day out with great shopping, delicious food, entertainment and activities for all the family to enjoy! Experience the wonderful Weald of Kent Country Craft Show over the first May bank holiday weekend and discover outdoor marquees bursting with unique handcrafted creations from over 150 independent stall holders. Lovingly created products and gifts await… from jewellery, homewares and clothing to art, garden ornaments, artisan food and drink plus much more! As well as great shopping, there are enjoyable activities and entertainment for all the family – from classic children’s fairground rides and live musicians to interactive craft workshops and demonstrations. The Weald of Kent Country Craft Show runs from 30 April to 2 May 2022. Book your tickets online before 24 April and save £2 on entry. Find out more at www.thecraftshows.co.uk
They have also re-launched Rockstars which is a climbing course targeted at 5-11 year olds. The four week course is on Wednesday at 4.30pm and costs £50. The course is full of fun games and targeted at improving climbing confidence. Clip ‘n Climb is also a popular venue for kids’ parties. Packages start from £15 including climbing and food. Please visit the website for details of the party packages on offer for Thursday/ Friday and weekends. To find out more or to book, email info@clipnclimbtonbridge. co.uk or visit www.clipnclimbtonbridge.co.uk
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EDUCATION
Help, we didn’t get our first choice school! By Emma Lewry School allocation day is almost upon us. In England, secondary school places are announced on 1 March. Then, during April, those who have applied for a primary school place will find out their designated school. Thankfully, almost ninety two percent of families are given their first-choice primary school and ninety eight percent get one of their listed preferences. In secondary, ninety six percent of students get one of their listed schools. But what about those who do not get their first choice or even any preferences? How can you deal with the fallout from not getting a choice you planned for? Here are three suggestions: Give the allocated option a chance If you do not know much about the school, get nosey on their website and give them a call see if you can visit. In many cases, second or third choice allocations turn out to be brilliant and families are really pleased with the decision. Give the school a chance, it might work for you! Manage disappointment Sometimes the biggest issue is managing the disappointment you and your child might feel. Look after yourself and take some time to be sad, angry and frustrated; these are important and valid feelings. Communicating positively with your child is important if you can, so they don’t feel nervous about their new school.
Get on the waiting lists Plenty changes between the spring and September and there is still a good chance you can get a space at your first choice school or another you feel happier about. Depending on your local authority procedures, you may automatically go on a waiting list or you may need to request this with your local authority or directly with the school. If you are still feeling unsure about the school options, there is time to look at other schools and request a change. Both starting school and moving to secondary are big events and you need to feel as happy about them as you can. There are also options to appeal; although this can be challenging, it may be worth a shot. Again, your local authority website should explain the appeals process. Emma Lewry is an Early Years teacher, former Headteacher and mum to two little girls. Emma co-owns Every Day’s a School Day (www.edasd.co.uk/links) which supports families to prepare for starting school through groups, courses and a school starters planner available from Amazon.
Telling your child
Appealing a decision
Where possible, after taking a little time to process your own feelings, tell your child with a positive spin. Explain to them that there is a different school that wants them to join.
Each local authority has an appeals procedure to follow and this can be found on their website.
Find some specific things about the school they will love and show younger children pictures of happy children and fun activities on the school website. For older children, visit the website together to look at what is on offer. Give them some examples of times when a change or difference in a plan has been good, for example ‘it was raining on our walk but we found some great puddles.’ Children of all ages are really receptive to these examples of bigger life lessons and it gives an opportunity to talk about how they feel. Stories are a great way to explore feelings and talk about sadness and disappointment. Top recommendations for little ones are: The Colour Monster by Anna Lennas and for older children No Worries, an activity book by Dr Sharie Combes or You are Awesome by Matthew Syed.
6 Families Kent
It will explain how to appeal and what reasons you can use for appeal. It is quite difficult to be successful with an appeal and in most cases, this only happens where children have additional needs which cannot be supported in any other setting. In a nutshell, if you appeal a decision, you are effectively asking a school which is full to remove a child from that allocation and move them to a different school. As you can imagine, that is an unlikely scenario. It can be worth going through the process though, as there are situations in which schools may take on more children if they are able to and by appealing, you are showing you are serious about wanting a place at that school. Once you appeal, the case will be heard by a panel, you may be invited to the hearing and you will be given a decision with reasons.
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EDUCATION © Coco Jones
Benefits for emotional health
© Coco Jones
Children engaged in woodland settings are more likely to interact and socialise as part of a group, as demonstrated by Forest School research.
Forest School for wellbeing By Sarah Lawfull Nature is good for us, lockdowns in the UK have taught us this. In a survey related to the pandemic, eighty three percent of children said being in nature makes them happy.1 However, despite recommendations from early years experts that children need at least two hours of physical play outdoors every day, many barely get two hours a week. Throughout the history of childhood there have been champions of learning with nature. A magnificent example is the Duke of Edinburgh scheme set up to build resilience in teenagers through physical challenge in wild spaces. Forest School is another champion of learning with nature and has been enjoyed by home-schooling parents and families with toddlers for many years now. As a response to the pandemic, many more nurseries, schools and alternative provisions are turning to Forest School. Nature provides a multi-sensory environment for children. A woodland offers both a physical challenge and an opportunity to relax. Since the mid–1990s, early years educators have championed this person-centred and play-based approach. Now, nature as a therapy has become a valid response to the stresses of the pandemic and mounting levels of mental ill-health because of its emotional and social benefits. Good quality Forest School programmes are founded on key principles that give experience of all seasons and all weathers to encourage a connection to nature. Led by specially qualified leaders, Forest School empowers children to manage their own risks, minimising the ecological impact of their activities whilst learning to care for nature around them. It offers children and young people real problems to solve and time to think in a place of acceptance and belonging.
This is particularly of value to children with varying emotional health, since the forest setting can help stabilise anger, which is linked to reduced physical and mental health, depression and increased antisocial behaviour. ‘It’s a school but different because there’s trees to climb. You have a lot more freedom at Forest School, you’re allowed to run a lot.’ (Year 4 student) Many children and young people struggle with the classroom environment and for those with emotional and social difficulties it can be especially hard.
Setting up or finding a Forest School The Forest School Association (www.forestschoolassociation. org) (FSA) is the professional body for the Forest School community in the UK and its members promote best practice and the provision of ‘Quality Forest School for All.’ The FSA has a directory of recognised providers who value and are committed to providing a Forest School that meets the ethos and principles agreed by the wider Forest School community. Find this at www.bit.ly/ForestSchoolProviders Where it is hard to find a Forest School programme, parents and childminders are sometimes choosing to train as leaders themselves. The FSA website also has a list of endorsed trainers. It’s important to find a trainer that gives ongoing support and provides access to a supportive learning community. There are also local affiliated Forest School Association groups that welcome new members, meeting regularly to provide mutual support. These are a useful source of information if you are seeking a Forest School toddler group or want to find a school that provides Forest School as part of the mainstream curriculum. Find at www.bit.ly/ForestSchoolGroups
Ages 2-11
A study by Liverpool University found that Forest School improved children’s levels of physical activity, happiness and sense of wellbeing. Through climbing trees safely, persevering to light a fire in the rain and cooking and sharing food, participants build confidence and understand and manage their own emotions. 2
Whilst Covid lockdowns stole the freedoms of many children, it gifted others with time in their gardens or nearest parks and the opportunity to use their bodies as they explored and connected with the natural world. Parents and teachers are seeing their children and teenagers becoming braver and empowered to learn from mistakes; they are regaining curiosity and learning to live well. Sarah Lawfull is an Education Consultant, Coach, Forest School Trainer and Forest School Association Chair. 1. www.gov.uk/government/statistics/the-people-and-nature-survey-for-england-child-datawave-1-experimental-statistics/the-people-and-nature-survey-for-england-childrens-surveyexperimental-statistics 2. www.researchgate.net/publication/327801925_Exploring_Gender_Differences_within_Forest_ Schools_as_a_Physical_Activity_Intervention
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Play n’ Grow Holiday Club Southborough and Tonbridge Themed craft cooking games outdoor play trips 8am to 6pm Mon-Fri during school holidays (excluding Bank Holidays) 07727 692645 I play.growholidayclub@gmail.com Families Kent 7
EDUCATION
Parental pressure By Catherine Loble and Lisa Wander
It can sometimes be challenging for parents to walk the fine line between caring too little and caring too much about their child’s progress at school. Whilst we all want the best for our children, our own expectations and behaviour can have a direct impact on their academic and emotional development. The weight of pressure and expectation can lead to low self-esteem and anxiety, whilst a lack of pressure and expectation can be equally counterproductive. So how do we strike a balance, ensuring that we are setting and supporting realistic goals for our children? Research suggests a strong and positive link between high expectations and high academic achievements. But these expectations must be based on a realistic understanding of our children’s abilities. When our dreams and fantasies do not coincide with their own interests and abilities, our expectations can strike a debilitating blow to their development. Putting children under unreasonable pressure can impact their mental and physical health as well as their relationships with both parents and peers. The constant stress to perform interferes with children’s identity formation and can cause them to feel that they can never be good enough. On the other hand, having low or no expectations can lead to poor performance and an inability to cope with pressure of any kind. When parents are too accepting of whatever their child does, it communicates that the child doesn’t really matter. This can be equally damaging. Key here is to maintain expectation but minimise pressure. High expectations can be motivating and encouraging, helping your child reach their potential and feel confident and secure. Think
about the process rather than the result by encouraging them to stick with their studies even when they are struggling. Work with your child to decide on best ways to manage test situations. Experiment with different study methods together to find out what works best for them. If your child is struggling, then talk to your child’s school to see what support can be provided. Finally, it’s crucial to remind your child of your love and support without reference to their academic performance and test outcomes. Supporting them to learn from their mistakes motivates them to try new approaches to problem solving, achieving wisdom and good judgement along the way. Lisa and Catherine are co-founders of Emparenting (www.emparenting.co.uk), supporting children, parents and families with the insights, skills and tools needed to nurture the development and well-being of the next generation.
Don’t worship grades
Positive parenting is key
Worldwide studies show that our children will have fallen behind due to the pandemic. This information must be taken into account when thinking about their progress. Rather than being a grade-slave, consider the following:
Focus on positive action, trust and communication. This will lead to a greater sense of happiness and help your child achieve their goals. Manage your own expectations. Our own reactions towards our children’s behaviours have a direct impact on how they internalise and develop their own sense of themselves so try to focus on the child you have and not the child you wish you had. Value goals over grades and focus on the process they used to get there. Use positive language and help your child learn about growth mindset – rather than ‘you only got 5/20 in your test,’ ask how you can help them to improve, think about what worked and what could work better. Talk about their successes and failures. This shows you are invested in the process of learning and not just interested in the end grade. Maintain a long-term perspective with realistic expectations. Choose the right school, not just the one that achieves the highest grades. Manage your own disappointments and value what is, rather than what might have been.
Is my child making progress? It’s essential not to compare progress between peers or siblings. Your child may not be at the same stage that an older sibling reached at their age. Setting realistic expectations will help nurture your child’s sense of self-esteem and encourage healthy development. Praise your child’s achievements. This is an opportunity to encourage your children to find what they are good at and what they enjoy - whether it be dance, drama, sport. Encourage their hobbies and help them to appreciate that their success is not just measured on their academic grades. Remember our children are individuals and progress in their own time. Let children make mistakes, mistakes are how we learn and improve. Offer support and encouragement even if the end result is not what was hoped for. 8 Families Kent
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ENVIRONMENT
Involving children in saving power By Angela Terry The climate crisis is hot news, energy prices are soaring and families are feeling the pain. With nearly a quarter of the UK’s carbon emissions created by our homes, there’s no better time to instil good energy-saving habits in our children, help the environment and reduce energy bills. Luckily, there are many creative ways of doing this so you don’t need to resort to nagging. Here are some suggestions: Measure your household carbon footprint To put energy saving into context, find a free online calculator and measure your household carbon footprint. Start a family art project, drawing a big foot and recording the date and the number of tonnes of emissions generated by your household. As you work together to reduce your footprint, you can update your achievements periodically, getting your children to draw smaller and smaller feet. Display your feet in a row along a wall to chart your progress. Get children to write the rules Go through each room in your house with the kids and ask them to pinpoint all the potential sources of wasted energy. Draw up a list together and agree a set of family rules that you’re all going to stick to, like switching off appliances that aren’t in use and keeping all curtains closed at night. Ownership of the rules should help motivate kids to follow them. Rewards To help younger children stick to your rules, try a reward chart with stickers. If they stick to them for a week, you can then give them a special eco treat, like a bee hotel for the garden or a packet of sunflower seeds to plant together. Older children and teens are more likely to be motivated by money, so agree a small weekly financial reward. Given how much energy prices are increasing, this will still save you money overall. Appoint monitors Allocate specific roles to each child. One could be the curtain monitor, ensuring all curtains are pulled shut at dusk, stopping extra energy seeping out of windows as the temperature drops. Likewise, another child could be the thermostat monitor and check it isn’t set above nineteen degrees Celsius. Children can
also check that bedrooms and little-used rooms are not being heated unnecessarily by turning down their radiator valves. Finally, a socket monitor could make sure all appliances not in use are switched off at the wall. Time showers Make a game of it when it comes to cutting hot water usage by timing each other in the shower to see who can be the quickest – whilst still actually getting clean, of course! Screen time Screen time limits can be one of the greatest sources of tension between parents and children. Building in an energy saving component can help. Explain to your children that the carbon footprint of our gadgets, the internet and the systems supporting them is nearly four percent of global emissions - greater than those from aviation. If they stick to agreed limits, offer to reward them with an outing to the park or a hot chocolate in a cafe. Set an example One of the best things you can do, is role model ultra-efficient energy usage. Children are like sponges and imitate those they’re closest to. Make sure you do everything you’re asking them to do and ask them to remind you if you forget. They’ll love the sense of responsibility (and telling you what to do!). Angela Terry is an environmental scientist and founder of One Home (www.onehome.org.uk), the UK’s first consumer climate action hub.
Draught hunting...
Smarten up your saving
Of course, you want to save energy but simultaneously make your home as insulated and cosy as possible. Encourage your children to come on a draught hunt with you, searching for any leaks around windows or doors. When you find some, enlist their help in a bit of easy DIY, sealing them with inexpensive rubber trim, available from most DIY shops. If cold air is seeping under the front door, do some ‘draught craft’ and make a snake draught excluder together. YouTube has lots of helpful tutorials.
A smart meter is a great visual tool. Once you’ve had one installed, use it to show your children when you’re using the most energy and how much it’s costing. Set targets to reduce your monthly usage and bills. Explain that just by turning down your thermostat by one degree saves an average of £80 per year. The ideal temperature is nineteen degrees Celsius. Set targets and treat yourselves to a family games night or outing whenever you hit them.
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Families Kent 9
PARENTING
Top apps every parent needs By Ari Last It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the number of apps available in the App Store and give up before you’ve even started looking for something. When it comes to parenting though, getting good apps on speed dial can really save time if you’re looking to keep the children entertained, connect with other like-minded parents, research childcare options or seek guidance on how to make family life just that little bit easier. Here are some recommendations: Family Locator https://family-locator.com When older children or teenagers are out and about, keep track of their location with this app which keeps your family secure and connected, for extra peace of mind. CBeebies www.bbc.co.uk/cbeebies This staple app on any parent’s phone or tablet offers both educational games as well as classic cartoons for when you just need a break!
Mush www.letsmush.com The number one social app for mums to find friends who live nearby with kids the same age, arrange to meet up and get advice from parenting experts and peers.
The Wonder Weeks www.bit.ly/WonderWeeksApp A week-by-week guide to your baby’s development right through from pregnancy to after birth, showing how you can support and stimulate your little one.
Allrecipes Dinner Spinner https://dish.allrecipes.com/ mobile-apps A handy bank of recipes and cooking inspiration which keeps solving the ‘what can I make for dinner?’ question and keeps little bellies satisfied every evening.
Sound Sleeper www.soundsleeperapp.com Help your baby get off to sleep with this app’s collection of calming sounds. Kidday www.kidday.com The easiest way to store your child’s photographs in one place, as well as share albums with friends and family.
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OLIO www.olioex.com Here you can give away unwanted kids’ items to those in the local area, allowing you to help out a neighbour and reduce waste. You can also use the app to look for anything you might happen to need and save some pennies. Ari Last is a parenting guru and founder of childcare app Bubble. For more information, visit www.joinbubble.com
Pre-schoolers and group activities After nearly two years of social distancing and screen time, the number of UK pre-schoolers joining organised group activities has risen by ten percent, according to a new study from leading researcher Childwise. Twenty six percent of parents surveyed said their pre-schooler had participated in group activities last year, up from sixteen percent in 2019.
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Bubble www.joinbubble.com The UK’s biggest ondemand childcare platform, with over 100,000 users and 5-star Trustpilot rating. Find, book and pay local sitters or nannies who come recommended from their friends and other parents in their area.
Swimming is the most popular activity, followed by dance classes and group music lessons. On average, UK kids are now participating in 1.4 activities, up from 1.2 activities pre-Covid. More info: www.childwise.co.uk Familiesonline.co.uk
TRAVEL
Are staycations here to stay? By Claire Winter hotels and foreign locales may seem, I also love being in the UK. There are no stresses of air travel, you can have all the home comforts to hand and jet lag isn’t an issue.
Staycations are fast becoming part of family life and many families experienced holidaying in the UK for the first time during the last two years. For many, myself included, it meant discovering a new love for Britain’s varied coastline, beautiful cities and countryside.
Over lockdown we realised that with a bit of imagination you can have a lot of fun. We camped in our garden for four nights without returning to our house once. But this was made easier as we have a motorhome in the driveway! We hunted for bugs, set camera traps for badgers and birds, made maps, did treasure hunts, built shelters and campfires and stargazed.’ Author and Coach, Eleanor Tweddell (www.eleanortweddell.com) lives in the Lake District with her husband and daughter, age 6. She’s on the fence about
While some families will continue to travel abroad, the uncertainty and increased costs will mean that many opt to stay in the UK in 2022 too.
staycations. ‘Staycations have been a bit hit and miss for us. We’ve tried the traditional B&B above a pub for a short getaway. It felt like a good idea, with the promise of a log fire, hearty meals and beautiful walks along a seafront. The reality was a stressed landlord, an unlit fire and walks that would’ve been good if the howling wind let up for a moment! Our next trip was more considered. We found a beautiful hotel with dinner included. The other trick was to make the journey to our destination part of the trip. We planned a scenic route, stopping off at a farm shop for lunch. This set us up for a whole different experience. I’ll be keeping staycations in my holiday plans for the future.’
Staycation fan, presenter, adventurer and ambassador for Bailey of Bristol, Andy Torbet (www.andytorbet.com) lives in the Wye Valley with his wife Bex and their two lively sons ages 6 and 4. ‘I love staycations because I work away from home a lot and as glamorous as
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With reasonably priced flights from London airports to Geneva, then a short drive to Morzine, there is a warm welcome waiting from Paul and Francesca Eyre from Chilly Powder. Although Morzine is most well known as a winter ski resort, most of the locals would tell you that the summer is just as amazing!
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The skiing is incredible, but so are the fantastic year round activities on offer. Morzine is fantastic if you’re travelling with younger children as there are brilliant family friendly activities available and plenty of childcare options. For more about Chilly Powder chalets for summer and winter visit www.chillypowder.com and more about summer in Morzine visit www.morzine-avoriaz.com Families Kent 11
EASTER
Your guide to
eggcellent Easter holiday fun
Here’s our pick of some local Easter activities and family days out in Kent.
Easter fun at Hever Castle Make some special family memories this spring at Hever Castle and Gardens. Between 2 and 18 April, families can embark on the colourful carrot trail, spotting the Hever Bunny along the way. And a chocolate reward (dairy-free alternatives available) awaits at the end of the Easter egg hunt. Just discover the hidden eggs around the gardens, answer the questions you find around the eggs and head to the information centre for your prize.
All aboard the steam train
It’s not Easter without an egg hunt….
At Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells you can take part in their Little Red Riding Hood themed Easter train ride plus arts and crafts from Fri 15 to Mon 18 April.
The National Trust venues, Smallhythe Place and Sissinghurst Castle are holding an Easter in Nature Trail from 2 to 18 April, pick up an adventure pack and claim a chocolate egg at the end. Brogdale Farm, Faversham is opening its beautiful orchards for visitors to enjoy an Easter Trail. Hop through the beautiful grounds of Hever Castle for some easter family fun and follow the trail of colourful carrots and look out for the Hever bunny. Claim a chocolate treat at the end of the egg hunt. At the Beany Centre you can go on a Dragon Egg Hunt Trail from Sat 2 to Sun 17 April and find the dragon eggs around the museum and not forgetting a Easter Nest Trail at Leeds Castle from Sat 2 to Mon 18 April. Kent Life are hosting an Easter weekend special from Fri 15 to Mon 18 April with an Easter bunny hunt.
Explore museums and heritage At The Beany Centre, Canterbury you can enjoy a Kent Wildlife special interactive family exhibition with children’s activities until 27 March.
Catch a show at the Theatre There are lots of family shows to enjoy this spring at theatres across Kent, see Dear Zoo on 10 or 11 March, or Zog and the Flying Doctors on 6 and 7 April at the Orchard Theatre, Dartford. Enjoy some puppetry in Pinocchio at Folkestone Quarterhouse on 19 March or enjoy an Easter pantomime, The Wizard of Oz at Trinity Theatre, Royal Tunbridge Wells on Sat 16 April. Book tickets early to enjoy these fantastic shows. Take a look at our What’s On guide on page 14 for more great theatre shows.
Head to the Farm Celebrate Easter and the baby boom that comes with Spring at Kent Life in Maidstone. Meet the lambs and watch the bottle feeding from Sat 2 to Mon 18 April. You can also enjoy their Easter activities too.
There’s also the chance for children to get creative at FREE scratch art workshop. As well as the Easter activities, a visit to Hever Castle in spring offers a great chance to explore the play areas, water maze and stunning gardens and enjoy a dazzling display of spring blooms from late daffodils to tulips. Round off the day with some seasonal home-cooked food and mouth-watering cakes from the restaurant or bring a picnic and enjoy stunning views of the Castle and grounds. Visit www.hevercastle.co.uk
And, not forgetting Easter family days out Kent’s most successful animal park, Howletts near Canterbury offers a wild day out, like no other. Wildwood Wild Animal Park, Canterbury is a year-round experience for all the family. Take a walk on the wild side at Wingham Wildlife Park where you can see more species than any other zoo in Kent. Dreamland, the original pleasure park is full of stylish restored, recreated and retro-filled rides and amusements from the Golden Age of British seaside holidays. Familiesonline.co.uk
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Cut out and Keep
Make an Easter birds nest!
&
EASTER
Spring is springing and the birds are nesting.
So why not take the time to get crafty with the kids and help them make their own bird’s nest for Easter. Once you have gathered all of the pieces, you can put together your bird’s nest in no time. Your child will love developing new skills as they explore making, sticking and creating. Once the nest is complete, why not go on a walk and enjoy the sights and sounds of spring and see if you can spot birds’ nests in the trees? You will need: • • •
Paper plate Brown paper squares Brown shredded paper
• • •
Feathers Wiggling eyes Bird cut outs (see below)
Instructions:
Step 1:
Cut the paper plate in half. With one half, cut out a semicircle.
Step 2:
Cover both halves in brown paper.
Step 3:
Add the brown shredded paper to the half with the semi-circle cut out.
Step 4:
Step 5:
Then cut out the blue and yellow circles with the bird beaks in them and stick into the nest.
Step 6:
Add the wiggly eyes and feathers to the birds. And, ta da, your nest is complete!
Stick the two pieces together, the half with the shredded paper on it on top of the other (so it makes a nest).
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With thanks to Karen Allen, co-owner of Kidzplay Playbox for this craft activity. Kidzplay Playbox produces creative playboxes which are guaranteed to be fun and contain high quality, engaging activities. Visit www.kidzplay.co.uk for playboxes delivered to your door.
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Families Kent 13
TOYS
What's On
Fun for all the family
To promote your local event, nearly new sale, parenting courses or community group in the next issue, email editor@familieskent.co.uk.
Don’t forget to sign up for our digital magazine for more interactive content at familiesmagazine.co.uk/go All listings correct at the time of going to print. Please check with the venue before visiting to ensure events are still going ahead and venues are open.
DIARY DATES
heart and become a real person. It’s a journey of discovery with hints of danger, slapstick humour and a playful exploration of identity. Ages 4+.
14- 20 March Dazzling Daffodils Hever Castle & Gardens Edenbridge TN8 7NG hevercastle.co.uk With 60,000 daffodil bulbs set to bloom across Hever Castle’s gardens this spring, feel uplifted by the cheerfulness of this exquisite bloom which symbolises new beginnings. 26 & 27 March Mother’s Day Weekend Hever Castle & Gardens Edenbridge TN8 7NG hevercastle.co.uk Show your mum just how much you love her with a wonderful family day out to Hever Castle on Mother’s Day Weekend. Sat 26 March Mother’s Day Cream Tea & Costume Maidstone Museums, ME14 1LH museum.maidstone.gov.uk Although the day before Mother’s Day, we know you’ll enjoy a luscious cream tea and a chance to see our wonderful costume collection behind the scenes in the storerooms. Pre-book. Limited Space. 3-5pm. Sat 2 – Mon 18 April Canterbury Family Fun Tour & Quiz Meet at Westgate Towers canterburytouristguides.co.uk A fun family tour with a focus on Canterbury’s bloody history, spooky stories, naughty pilgrims and will include a fun quiz. Ages 6+. Book online at www. canterburytouristguides.co.uk Sat 2 – Mon 18 April Easter Family Fun Hever Castle & Gardens Edenbridge TN8 7NG hevercastle.co.uk Hop through the beautiful grounds following the trail of colourful carrots and look out for the Hever bunny. Celebrate spring by taking part in a free Easter Egg hunt and explore the stunning gardens. Sat 2 – Mon 18 April Easter Fun with the National Trust Smallhythe Place, Tenterden, TN30 7NG or Sissinghurst Castle, near Cranbrook, TN17 2AB www.nationaltrust.org.uk Discover a family-friendly trail with fun activities for you to do along the way. Complete the trail and earn your chocolate egg at the end. 10am - 4.15pm. £3 per person.
14 Families Kent
The Orchard Theatre Home Gardens, Dartford DA1 1ED Box Office: 0343 310 0033 Thu 10 & Fri 11 March Dear Zoo Ben and Sally are searching for the perfect pet, but instead the zoo send a far too big elephant, a far too grumpy camel, and a far too jumpy frog. Whatever will they send next! With lots of laughs and audience interaction.
Family fun at Hever Castle & Gardens Sat 2 – Mon 18 April Easter Nest Trail Leeds Castle Maidstone ME17 1PL leeds-castle.com Visit their website for full details. Sat 2 – Mon 18 April Spring into Easter Kent Life, Maidstone, ME14 3AU kentlife.org.uk Join in with the Easter Bunny’s special hunt and Easter activities plus meet the lambs and watch feeding demos and more. Wed 6 April Stories and Rhymes Maidstone Museums, ME14 1LH museum.maidstone.gov.uk Listen to a story and rhymes, join in with actions, and make a themed paper craft to take home. Under 5’s. Sat 9 April Cook & Create Workshop Belmont, Faversham, ME13 0HH belmont-house.org Young people and their families will have the opportunity to learn two skills during this memorable and immersive workshop. 10am. Pre-book. Fri 15 – Sun 17 April Easter at Brogdale Brogdale Farm Faversham, ME13 8XZ brogdalecollections.org/event/ easter-at-brogdale Families can take part in a trail and Easter egg hunt. Follow the trail map to find all the Easter Eggs and solve the hidden word quiz. 10am–12pm or 1-3pm. Adults £6, Child 3-15, £3 or Family £15. Tue 19 – Thu 21 April Tulip Celebrations Hever Castle & Gardens Edenbridge TN8 7NG hevercastle.co.uk Feel uplifted by over 40,000 tulips standing to attention and providing a visual feast of spring colour.
Sat 30 April – Mon 2 May May Day Festival Hever Castle & Gardens Edenbridge TN8 7NG hevercastle.co.uk Celebrate May Day at Hever with a weekend of fun family activities and traditional May Day customs. Sat 30 April – Mon 2 May Weald of Kent Country Craft Show Penshurst Place, Tonbridge thecraftshows.co.uk With over 150 independent stall holders, explore marquees and outdoor markets bursting with beautiful handmade jewellery, homewares, clothing and much more. More details are on page 5. 10am 5pm. £8, kids go free.
FAMILY THEATRE EM Forster Theatre Tonbridge School, TN9 1JP Box Office: 01732 304241 23 & 24 March What a Knight Hilden Grange School will be performing the musical comedy ‘What A Knight!’ by Craig Hawes. Everyone is guaranteed to sing a lot, dance a lot and laugh a lot... at Camelot! 24 April So you think you know about Dinosaurs? Get ready to go on an exciting prehistoric adventure as Ben explores the biggest, deadliest and weirdest predators that ever roamed the planet. £14. Quarterhouse Folkestone, CT20 1BN Box Office: 01303 760 740 Sat 19 March Pinocchio Join Pinocchio on a fast-paced adventure of self-discovery, as they try, fail and try again to find their
Wed 6 & Thu 7 April Zog & the Flying Doctors Based on Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling sequel, Freckle Productions (Zog, Stick Man, Tiddler & Other Terrific Tales, Tabby McTat) bring the creative team behind Zog, Emma Kilbey and Joe Stilgoe, back together for this truly modern take on the classic fairy tale. Ages 3+. Trinity Theatre Royal Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1JP Box Office: 01892 678 678 www.trinitytheatre.net Sun 3 April Splat Splat is a physical comedy about Art and Creativity for ages 3-6. 1pm. Tickets from £10. Mon 4 April Rapunzel A tangled musical adventure! Let your hair down in a new adaptation of the popular fairy tale ‘RAPUNZEL’.. This production promises to be a theatrical treat for all ages, featuring a witty script and lots of popular music. 2.30pm. Sat 16 April The Wizard of Oz This spectacular, pantomimic, colourful story is packed with hilarious jokes, dazzling dance routines, glittering scenery and plenty more for all the family, plus at the end of the show you will have a chance to meet the larger-thanlife characters! 2pm & 6pm. Sat 23 April Comedy Club 4 Kids Cracking entertainment for everyone over the age of six, we have the best comedians on the UK circuit doing what they do best… but without the rude bits! Ages 6+. 2pm.
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Easter Holiday Clubs
Clubs & Classes Directory
Learn to read, write & love music. Keyboard tuition for ages 5-8 and 9-12 years. Free trial available. Call 01732 457100. www.funkymonkey.info
Camp Beaumont
Easter Workshops
With half-term just around the corner, and the dilemma of childcare approaching, Camp Beaumont, the UK’s most experienced day camp provider, is on hand to provide your child with a fun-filled adventure.
Funky Monkey Keyboard Classes’ one day workshops for beginners have a different theme depending on the season and is a perfect opportunity to try out the keyboard and make music the fun way!
Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks
With over 50 activities each week, not only can your child sharpen their social skills, but they can pursue new interests, develop new talents and unleash their creative side. Activities range from Aqua Olympics to Movie Maker to Superhero Academy, and each activity programme is tailored by age group, including a nursery-style Playtime Programme for 3-4 year olds, a unique Magic Programme for 5-7 year olds, a thrilling Active Programme for 8-11 year olds and an exclusive club style Teens Programme for 12-16 year olds. Camp Beaumont’s award-winning multiactivity Easter camps take place from 28 March to 22 April. Childcare vouchers are accepted and all bookings are flexible with their COVID flexible booking promise. If there are any changes to the government guidance you can change the date hasslefree or receive a full refund.
Sevenoaks, TN13 3AE
Children will learn how to write and play notes C-G and try some famous tunes using electronic keyboards. It’s a wonderful, relaxed introduction to practical and theoretical music, and with the use of games, quizzes and art activities all based around music, you’ll be amazed how much they can learn. All equipment and take home workbook provided. 4-8 years. Monday 4 April. 10am2pm. £40 per pupil, £30 for subsequent siblings. Workshops run at The Drive Methodist Church. To book a place call 01732 457 100 or visit www.funkymonkey.info
CONFIDENCE BUILDING FUN Try a FREE drama, dance and singing class Book at www.perform.org.uk/try
Play n’ Grow Holiday Club Southborough, and Tonbridge Themed craft, cooking, games, outdoor play and trips. 8am to 6pm Mon-Fri during school holidays (exc. bank holidays).
Ages 2-11
Call 07727 692645 play.growholidayclub@gmail.com
Make your child’s development more fun
TRY RUGBYTOTS 0345 313 0807 westkent@rugbytots.co.uk
To book, visit www.campbeaumont.co.uk
Perform Easter Course Sevenoaks
Easter Holiday Club Southborough & Tonbridge
Play n’ Grow Holiday Club will be running an Easter themed holiday club from 4–14 April, Monday–Friday from 8am to 6pm for ages 2 to 11 years. There will be themed activities, fun and games, outdoor adventures much more. Plus, Arty Farty will be running a mini craft zone on 5 and 7 April at both Southborough and Tonbridge venues. Subscience is running on 6 April at Tonbridge. To book visit www.playngrowholidayclub. co.uk or call Sarah on 07727 692645. Familiesonline.co.uk
This Easter, join Perform and enter the mysterious world of Misselthwaite Manor and discover the excitement of reawakening a long-abandoned garden in their drama, dance and singing holiday courses based on The Secret Garden. Packed with adventure, these threeday courses are designed to nurture the creativity, confidence and communication skills of 4–10 year olds, ending with a fantastic show on the last day. Runs from 11-13 April at The Parish Church of St Luke, Sevenoaks, TN13 1XT, 10am to 3pm each day. To book call 020 7255 9120, email enquiries@perform.org.uk or visit www.perform.org.uk/secretgarden
Tots in Sport
Tots in Sport teach 8 different sports for children 18 months to 5 years. Classes are FUN, Educational and develop fundamental skills. If your little ones are energetic and love playing with balls of all shapes, colours and sizes then this class is for you! Email totsinsport@gmail.com Visit: totsinsport.com
To feature your club or classes in our May/June issue call Amanda on 07835 848066 Book by 4 April Families Kent 15
Inspiring Easter adventures your child won’t want to miss BOOK NOW
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“this traditional prep school brings out strengths, both academic and creative, so that by the time they leave they’re ready for the fast-paced senior school.”
CO-EDUCATIONAL | 3-13 YEARS | DAY & BOARDING
Open Mornings for Nursery, Pre-Prep & Prep Sat. 19th March 2022 (Virtual Event) Sat. 14th May 2022 Register online at: www.junior-kings.co.uk/opendays Junior King's_Families East Kent_MarchApril22.indd 1
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