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Issue 52 | March/April 2017 www.familiesonline.co.uk

Bumper Easter Events Guide

Guide to Potty Training

Dealing with stress, depression and anxiety in children Buy stick on labels for clothing!

Six books to inspire picky eaters

Quick & Easy

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The essential local magazine for parents and carers www.familiesonline.co.uk | 1

All Images © RBG Kew / Jeff Eden / Jim Holden

Imagine taking a unique journey through the peaceful and tranquil woodlands of the world – you have space to breathe you feel relaxed – worries seem a million miles away. Beyond Wakehurst’s world famous botanic gardens and Millennium Seed Bank lies an enchanted world of woodlands – in fact more than 500 acres of both native and managed woods, including the Loder Valley nature reserve – just waiting for you to discover. In the year of the 30th anniversary of The Great Storm, Wakehurst is celebrating a year of wonderful woodlands. More than 20,000 trees were lost during the storm which seemed devastating at the time but after rigorous replanting the landscape has been completely rejuvenated. In the managed arboreta, trees are planted out according to the country they are native to. This careful arrangement means you can go on an adventure through the temperate woodlands of the world without having to dust off your passport. Closer to home, a new woodland trail will wind through one of Wakehurst’s

most beautiful oak woodlands. From charcoal burning and bodging to coppicing and dormice, the trail will help to unlock the woodland’s secrets and reveal its hidden charms. Combining elements of sculpture, play, art, music and science. Wakehurst’s woodland highlights* Woodland secrets Easter egg trail, 8 – 17 April. Stunning bluebell displays from late April to mid-May. Guided woodland walks, 26 and 29 April. Friends of Wakehurst evening opening with exclusive access to behind the scenes woodland activities, 28 April. Wild Wood festival. An action packed bank holiday weekend for all the family, 27 – 29 May. Summer holiday woodland fun. Weekly activities including: bush craft, wild cooking, tree climbing and mini beast hunts. Adult day tickets: £12.50. Children: FREE (16 and under). Friends of Wakehurst annual membership from £25. *some activities incur extra cost

Wakehurst is located between Ardingly and Turners Hill on the B2028 For details visit kew.org/wakehurst

www.familiesonline.co.uk Managing Editor Mandy Earle editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk Contributor Alison Mackonochie Next issue May/June 2017 Booking deadline 10th April 2017 Artwork deadline 14th April 2017

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News and views Books to inspire picky eaters Guide to potty training Dealing with stress, depression and anxiety in children Get your child outdoors this spring What’s on guide to the best family events Families Favourite Easter days out

@FamiliesSussexC

EDITOR’S

LETTER

Spring is nearly here which means it’s time to emerge from our woolly winter cocoons and start to plan our Easter Holidays. With that in mind, we have compiled a bumper What’s On guide this issue; don’t miss our Families Favourite days out on page 12 and 13. The clocks go forward an hour on 26th March this year, which happens to be the same day as Mother’s Day. This means us mums technically lose an hour of sleep on our special day, which we should probably claim back at another time! We love hearing from our readers, so get in touch if you have something to share - a parenting tip, a funny story, photo, or a recipe - whatever it is, send it over to editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk and we will choose a selection to publish in the next issue. Best wishes,

Mandy Earle | Editor www.familiesonline.co.uk | 3

Love your eLibrary

West Sussex residents have free access to a huge range of books, audiobooks, magazines, newspapers and comics 24 hours a day seven days a week at the eLibrary. Part of West Sussex County Council’s library service, the eLibrary is completely free.

If you have a local news item you would like to share, please email editor@ familiessussexcoast.co.uk

Library customers can download 10 books and 10 audio titles for up to three weeks; loans automatically expire at the end of the lending period so there are no late fees. There are 100 magazines to download covering gardening, cookery, cars, computers and other popular subjects. Newspapers and comics are also available to download as well. Take a look at the eLibrary service at www.westsussex.gov.uk/ebooks

Sussex Search and Rescue seek new members and base

Bus operator discounts help lessen the loss of 3in1 cards

Sussex Search and Rescue is an 100% volunteer organisation group on call 24 hours every day to aid in the search and rescue of vulnerable missing people. Qualified to high standards, they are a vital resource to Sussex Police with over 60 members - many with families and jobs – and currently have vacancies for operational, fundraising and support members.

West Sussex County Council has worked with bus operators to lessen the loss of the 3in1 travel card in 2017.

Based across the whole of Sussex, SusSAR are also looking for a ‘home’ in the central Sussex area. Ideally this would be somewhere that can hold 40-50 people for indoor meetings, plus a small office area and vehicle storage.

The County Council held discussions with bus operators, schools and colleges about future travel concessions. This means most pupils and students (aged 16-19) will not have to pay a full adult fare because each bus operator is offering its own individual discount.

If you are interested in joining SusSAR and would like some more information, please email secretary@sussar. org. Alternatively, if you would like to help with fundraising please email fundraising@sussar.org

The 3in1 Card scheme, which offered savings on bus travel for young people aged 5 to 19, ended in 2016 due to changes in national legislation, local policy, and to help fill a funding shortfall this year.

Stagecoach has introduced new discounted Termrider and Unirider tickets for school and college students. It also has a child discount of 33% off adult fares and offers a weekly student rate Megarider Gold. For more information call 0345 121 0190. Compass Travel has introduced a new student discount of 25% off adult fares. It has a child discount of 50% off adult fares. Visit the Compass website or call 01903 690025. Sussex Coaches has student discounts available on most services. The discount is not available on N8 or 68 services. Visit the Sussex Coaches website or call 01403 741976. Brighton & Hove offers 50% off adult fares to children and students up to 18 with a free BusID card. Visit www.buses.co.uk or call 01273 886200.

Sea Life Brighton Celebrates One Year of Sensory Room

Sea Life Brighton is celebrating the one year anniversary of its themed Sensory Room, installed at the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital last year, for children with complex needs. Around 500 kids have now benefited from the unique room located in the Level 10 play area at the hospital. The UK’s first official Sea Life themed sensory room is fitted with interactive lighting, an effects projector and a bubble screen to create an underthe-sea multi-sensory experience.

4 | Tel: 02393 117 561 | editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

Teletubbies returns after 20 years This March, award-winning UK production company Darrall Macqueen are producing 60 new episodes of the iconic show for DHX Media and CBeebies.

Combining all the charm of the original with a little 21st-century technical magic to create a televisual treat for today’s preschoolers, the ever-innovative show adds exciting new elements in the second series to delight another generation of Teletubby devotees. New characters include the adorable and intrepid little Tiddlytubbies, plus a new area of Teletubbyland called the Hidey Hup – a beautiful hidden glade which they reach in their brand new honk honk Tubby Car.

pretend games you can play lying down When you need rest but your toddler won’t nap, try these games that have grown-up downtime built in.

Massage parlor.

Lie on your stomach and invite your kid to pretend to be a massage therapist.

Hair stylist. Sit cross-

legged on the floor while your kid brushes your hair.

Tattoo artist. Let

your kid draw on your arms or back (somewhere you can easily cover up!) with washable marker.

Campout. Turn off the

lights, unroll a couple of sleeping bags, crawl inside, and pretend you and your kid are sleeping in the woods.

Caterpillar cocoon.

Lie on the floor and let your kid wrap you up in a blanket. After a minute, squirm around, then slowly emerge as a “butterfly.”

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Doctor. You lie on the

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Laser show. Turn off

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night.)

Perform Drama, Dance and Singing Workshops Perform is a unique type of children’s drama school. Focusing on child development, Perform uses a specially formulated mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s true potential. Small class sizes ensure lots of individual attention by the experienced actor-teachers who focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination and Concentration and having the best fun of the week. The Perform curriculum uses a mix of energetic games, catchy songs and funky dances. All class materials are written by Perform with a different theme each term to keep young imaginations buzzing. The summer term starts in April with two brilliant and inspiring themes: Perform 4–7 year olds will be saddling up and going on a Wild West adventure to find the Horse with the Golden Mane. Children will be rodeo-riding through a spooky ghost town, dancing to the Hip Hop Hoedown and meeting Chief Sitting Bull of the Sioux Tribe. Meanwhile, the 7–12s will be zooming off on a fun-filled outer space adventure with Robinson Crusoe. After crashlanding on Mars, our intergalactic hero has to save the Martian children from being eaten by the evil Commander Cannibal. With infectious tunes and high-energy dance, this space-age version of the castaway survival classic has been transformed into an explosive new show. Perform offers a no-obligation, FREE trial session. To book or find your nearest venue, contact: 020 7255 9120 or email enquiries@perform.org.uk. www.perform.org.uk/try

Book a FREE no obligation trial session by calling 0207 255 9120 Hove Saturdays at St Andrews Hall, Church Road, BN3 2AD Rottingdean Thursdays at Rottingdean Public Hall, Park Road, BN2 7HL Horsham Tuesdays at Brighton Road Baptist Church, Brighton Road, RH13 5BD Saturdays at Holbrook Tithe Barn, Pondtail Road, RH12 5JF Haywards Heath Saturdays at Clair Hall, Perrymount Rd, RH16 3DN

www.familiesonline.co.uk | 5

Books to inspire picky eaters Bread and Jam for Frances by Russell Hoban

This charming tale tells the story of Frances who loves bread and jam so much she eats it at every single meal! At least that’s until she realises what else she’s missing...

Green Eggs and Ham by Dr Seuss

This fantastic story teaches little ones that you never know whether you like something or not until you’ve tried it! With Dr Seuss’ unique combination of funny rhymes and cool characters, this book will be a delightful read for both of you.

Feed their imagination with these clever and humorous books...

I Do Not Eat the Colour Green by Lynne Rickards

This fun, engaging book is ideal for young fussy eaters. Showcasing the tale of Marlene McKean; this story is all about how little Marlene absolutely hates the colour green!

Oliver’s Vegetables by Vivian French

This story tells the tale of young Oliver who loves chips so much that he refuses to eat anything else! Well, until this grandfather plays a game with him where he must eat every vegetable he finds in the garden!

Potty Training When to start

There’s very little point in trying to potty train your child before they are physically and emotionally ready, which is usually at around two years of age – although for some children it may take longer. Look out for signs that your child is becoming aware of doing a ‘wee’ or ‘poo’. They may tell you that they are wet or dirty, or that they are wetting their nappy or is about to do so. Another sign that your child is learning control is if their nappy is still dry after they’ve worn it for a number of hours. Once you have decided to start you need to be prepared to persevere, so choose a period when you know you will have time to give your child the extra attention that they will need.

Monsters Don’t Eat Broccoli by Barbara Jean Hicks and Sue Hendra

In this stunning picture book the monsters insist that they don’t eat broccoli; despite the fact the tractors and rocket ships look EXACTLY like broccoli! Maybe vegetables aren’t so bad after all?

Tea Time for Pirates by Richard Dungworth Packed with fantastic rhymes and funny illustrations, this book is a perfect story for picky eaters. Telling the tale of how Captain Cutlass convinces his crew that sausages, carrots, mash and peas will make them big and strong!

by Alison Mackonochie

How to begin

The next steps

Select certain times of day to sit them on their potty – perhaps after meals – but if you can, try to choose times when your child usually wets or dirties themselves.

Once your little one has achieved a certain amount of control you can introduce the idea of wearing ordinary pants. There will probably be some accidents at first, but don’t panic.

Explain in simple words what you want your child to do. Tell them that it’s what you and ‘big’ children do and that they’ll be able to wear ‘big pants’ once they’re out of nappies.

Your child may get the hang of potty training very quickly, or they may think the whole thing is a joke, or even treat it with complete disinterest. If they refuse to sit on the potty for more than a few minutes, don’t force it. You don’t want to turn this into a battle of wills! Try sitting with your little one and reading a story or just talking. And when your child achieves something, give lots of praise or even reward them with a small treat. Never show your displeasure or punish your child for not performing – this will only reduce their self-confidence and cause tension between you both. Equally, it’s important not to overdo the praise when your little one does something in her potty because they may think they’ve been naughty in some way when nothing happens in the future. Potty training is all about negotiation and persuasion, not anger and blame.

6 | Tel: 02393 117 561 | editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

While your child is learning to become clean and dry, putting them in training pants rather than nappies will make life easier for you both.

Staying dry at night

It’s unlikely that your toddler will become dry at night at the same time as they are dry during the day. Few children achieve this and many are well into their third year before they are completely dry during the night. If you encourage your child to use the potty before going to bed and don’t offer drinks at night or during the hour before bedtime you’ll find that eventually you’ll have a series of dry nappies during the night and your nappy days will be well and truly over! For more information about potty training visit: www.emmasdiary.co.uk Alison is a well-respected and highly experienced writer and editor. The author of numerous books on pregnancy and early year’s childcare, Alison has worked with Lifecycle as editor-in-chief of Emma’s Diary for more than 20 years.

and these may not necessarily manifest immediately after a traumatic event. Sometimes, it might not always be easy to pinpoint what has caused the prolonged low mood in your child.

Dealing with stress, depression and anxiety in children Stress, depression and anxiety don't just affect adults; they can affect children, too. It can be difficult for parents to see their child suffering, especially when we tend to think of youngsters as being such happy and carefree souls. Parents may quickly blame themselves, but there may be complex factors at play contributing to the way your child feels. Often, the biggest problem is spotting the signs and symptoms of a potential problem in the first place. But, the good news is, there are plenty of solutions available to help your child overcome this issue.

Spotting the signs

As with adults, it's normal for children to experience ups and downs in life, and how they react to certain situations can change as they develop and grow. Many children have fears or phobias, which is normal, too. But, it's when problems start to interfere with everyday life, that you may need to consider if there's something else going on. What is important to consider when deciding if your child may be suffering from stress, depression or anxiety is how long feelings or behaviours have been occurring, and what is usual or typical for your child. For example, it's normal to feel sad and upset when a grandparent or pet dies, but if these feelings of sadness persist for a prolonged period, or they interfere with daily routines, this may flag up potential problems of stress, depression or anxiety. Equally, if your child is usually very sociable and enjoys play dates and sleepovers, but has started to become withdrawn and wants to be on their own, this isn't typical of their normal behaviour, so may signal all isn't quite well. Stress, depression or anxiety may also exist if your child loses interest in hobbies they usually enjoy. They may

find it hard to concentrate at school, may avoid certain activities or may display characteristics that aren't normal for them. A placid child may suddenly develop angry outbursts, for example, or a typically happy youngster may become tearful for no apparent reason. Some symptoms of stress, depression or anxiety may be more obvious than others. Children might start having nightmares or night terrors, or they may wet the bed. Behaviours such as hurting themselves or becoming obsessive about certain things may manifest, and some children may refuse to eat, or restrict what they eat.

Often, understanding the root cause or trigger can help alleviate the problem. If a child is being bullied, for instance, you can contact the relevant authorities to address the issue. If your child feels stressed because of exams, explain that it's normal to feel anxious before a test and that other children will feel the same way, too. By showing children that it's normal to feel symptoms of unease over situations, it can make them feel better. However, where problems persist or aren't easy for you to tackle on your own, it's wise to seek professional help from your GP to get a confirmed diagnosis. To the untrained eye, it's not easy differentiating between stress, depression and anxiety, so this is where your GP comes in. There are many trained paediatric therapists who can help to ease the burden that your child may be feeling. Talking therapies, such as counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy, are effective at letting your child discuss their fears and concerns whilst finding strategies to help them cope or think differently about a situation. Art therapy or creating a worry box can also be cathartic for youngsters, where they express their feelings by drawing or writing them down and working with therapists to find solutions. Most of these therapies are effective in getting your child back to their old self, and only in extreme cases is medication used to tackle this issue.

Tackling the issue

If you suspect your child may be experiencing stress, depression or anxiety, the first step you should take is to talk to them. Try to find out why your child is behaving the way they are, or feeling the way they do. Explain to them that they haven't done anything wrong, they aren't alone, and that lots of people often feel the same way. There are lots of factors that may contribute to the way your child is feeling. They may be worried about exams or schoolwork, or they may be experiencing problems with other children. Bereavement and parental breakup may trigger troubled feelings,

www.familiesonline.co.uk | 7

Get your child

outdoors this spring

Spring is a beautiful time of year and the perfect time for children! With lambs frolicking and insects buzzing, there is so much to see and do. Although there may still be a bit of a nip in the air, here are six super tips to get your little ones scrambling for the nearest door and their next adventure…

Take them camping

Studies have shown that the average child spends far too much time indoors using electronics and less and less time outside. This can constrain their natural creativity and gives them an inability to cope without constant stimulation. One great way to turn this on its head is to grab a tent and take them camping. Internet service should be naturally limited in more remote locations, but if it’s not, encourage your kids to leave their tablets and smartphones behind. Fill their days with hiking, campfires, and outdoor games and they’ll barely even notice the absence of 24/7 technology.

Turn detective for a day

Woodland walks are one way to get your children moving, but to make sure that they don’t get bored and try to avoid going out again in the future, turn the day into a game. Compile a list of things to find in the forest, from certain types of flowers to feathers, leaves, and even animal droppings. Get them to tick these off their list as they locate them. The more they find, the more points they get, with a small prize at the end for the victor. Such games are guaranteed to not only be fun, but also to get all of their senses switched on and their attention focused on the task at hand.

Do some wildlife watching Collect and craft According to research by the Kaiser Family Foundation, children spend more than seven hours a day on electronic media. Luckily, the best antidote for gamer’s eye and texter’s thumb is a simple one: a different kind of mental and visual stimulation in the form of wildlife watching. Helping children to better appreciate the birds and beasts around them is a great way to engage their senses and educate them on the environment. If you want to make the day extra exciting, turn it into a photo safari and have them snap pictures of any animals they spot.

Another idea for woodland walks is to get your children to collect items that they can later use to make crafts. Encourage them to search around for the most beautiful bits and bobs that they can find, whether these are flowers, feathers, or even pretty rocks. Once you’re at home, let them showcase their findings, and spend some time teaching them about the things they’ve discovered, such as which birds their feathers came from. Then, get out the glue and the glitter and get to work. Their imaginations should soon be working overtime.

Go pony trekking

Horse riding can be an expensive hobby, but as a one-off treat, it’s a really pleasant experience for children. Helping to hone their hand-eye co-ordination, it's almost like enjoying a Great British safari. Most centres will take you out into the wilderness, with beautiful sights to be seen and enjoyed. Depending on where you trek, you could cross everything from woods to beaches to mountains, each of them offering a unique insight into the wonders of the great outdoors. Your little ones will probably love it so much that they’ll be talking about it for weeks to come, their minds filled with the fun and the excitement that being outdoors can bring.

Go cloud gaze

As free as the air you breathe, cloud gazing has always been associated with daydreamers and there are worse things that your child could be. Encouraging them to pick out shapes in the sky will get their imaginations working overtime and is a truly fantastic catalyst for creativity. Afterwards, have them make stories from the images they imagined, or else paint their own cloudy pictures. As long as it gets them thinking, the day will have been a superb success.

For more fun things to see and do in the great outdoors visit

www.familiesonline.co.uk 8 | Tel: 02393 117 561 | editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

Great days out at Amberley Museum We’ve scoured the area for the best local family events this March and April so you don’t have to! We take great care in compiling our events guide, but please do contact venues before you leave home as things can change. 1 – 5 March Circus Wonderland

Southwick Green, BN42 4FX A spectacular show of spellbinding colour, laughter and excitement - a wonderful world of thrills and spills and glitter and glamour in a show that takes inspiration from the traditional picture book circus to create a vibrant fast moving show for today.

Wednesdays 1 March - 5 April Woods Mill Nature Tots Sussex Wildlife Trust, Woods Mill Shoreham Road, Henfield, BN5 9SD, 01273 497561 Nature Tots is for 3 – 5 year olds with accompanying adults each Wednesday. Bring your little ones along to help them explore the natural world. This will involve getting to know the forest school site, woodland activities, stories, singing and lots more! Each week will have a different theme which will always be based in a special forest school site.

Spot the dot for FREE events!

Easter at Hever Castle

Station Road, Amberley, Arundel West Sussex BN18 9LT 01798 831370 office@amberleymuseum.co.uk

With 36 acres to explore and 40 exhibits to visit, so much to discover learn and have fun at Amberley Museum in any weather. With over 50 events planned for 2017, visit our website for more information Free carpark located next to Amberley railway station. Under 4s go free. Accessibility friendly, and Dogs on leads are welcome.

www.amberleymuseum.co.uk

4 March Family Film Night

Fishers Adventure Farm Park, Wisborough Green RH14 0EG All families welcome to come along to the Barn Cinema in their pyjamas or onesies (yes – grown-ups too!) and watch the hilarious, family-friendly film ‘Moana’. Get cosy with a hot chocolate, warm popcorn and sweets and enjoy a fun night in with the kids! The soft-play centre will be open late too if anyone gets ‘the fidgets’. Tickets can be bought online at www.fishersfarmpark.co.uk for just £5 per person - film starts at 5.30pm, entrance to the park from 5pm.

Fridays in March and April Mr Booth’s Mini-Museum Explorers

Booth Museum of Natural History, 194 Dyke Road, Brighton and Hove, BN1 5AA, 03000 290900 These sessions for 2-5 year olds include art activities, a museum expedition, a story and handling some museum objects. From 10am - 11:30am. £5 (members £4) book in advance. (Not running Friday 14th April).

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4 March and 1 April Kids Run Free

4 March and 1 April Arty Crafty Saturday

Hove Museum, 19 New Church Road, Hove. BN3 4AB Learn a different skill each month including printmaking, toymaking, weaving and claywork with specialist craft maker Nadya. Suitable for children aged 8 - 12 years. 10.30am, £6.

4 – 5 March Monstersaurus

Connaught Theatre, Worthing, BN11 1LG. 01903 206 206 This brand new show from the creators of Aliens Love Underpants is monsterously good! Follow the young inventor Monty as he creates a whole world of whacky inventions and incredible monsters.

Victoria Park, Norfolk Street, Worthing, BN11 4BD Kids Run Free is a charity that organises fun, running based activities for children in their local parks and schools. Circuits start at 50m for the under two’s, with the longest at 250m for children aged 5 and over. First Saturday of every month. Register your child in advance at kidsrunfree.co.uk

9, 16, 23, 30 March 6 and 27 April Picture Time and Story

Hove Museum and Art Gallery, 19 New Church Road, BN3 4AB, 03000 290900 Have fun with craft materials, make a picture and listen to a story in these fun sessions for 2-5 year olds. From 10am – 12pm. £2 per child, drop-in. 2-5 years. Please note: A ‘first come, first served’ policy is in operation for drop-in sessions and events that do not require pre-booking. 10am / £2

Lambs Galore...

and more!

BBo oo ok k OOn nlliin nee aan ndd S Saav vee!! ecial fun throughout Join us for ‘eggstra’ sp m Sat 1st-Fri 21st April fro the Easter Holidays bs and their mums, lam ely Visit the lov our Easter Hunt, head find all the clues in Den and meet our silly e to the Cock-a-Doodl e’s lost the flock!! sh ses rd he ep sh details and tickets. See website for full Just 5 minutes from Lewes, or 15 minutes from Brighton!

Spring Barn Farm, Kingston Road, Lewes, BN7 3ND

springbarnfarm.com

10 | Tel: 02393 117 561 | editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

Thursdays (term time) Baby and Toddler Group

St Peters Church Hall, Shoreham By Sea, BN43 5WF. 01273 441540 Free play, art activities and music session. £2 per family. First visit free. 9.30 - 11.30am.

11 – 12 March VegfestUK Brighton

The Brighton Centre, King's Road, BN1 2GR. 0117 9071881 A huge vegan event full of vegan food, goodies, shopping, cosmetics, clothing, from 230 stalls and 20 caterers, plus dozens of talks, cookery demos, films, comedians, music, chillout zones for adults and teens, kids entertainment and cookery classes, facepainting and a lot more.

16 – 17 March The X Factor Live Tour

Brighton Centre, King's Rd, BN1 2GR The supersized talent show is back to tour the UK. The final eight X Factor contestants will take to the road for the The X Factor Live Tour 2017. The acts performing will be 5 After Midnight, Emily Middlemas, Four of Diamonds, Matt Terry, Ryan Lawrie, Saara Aalto, Sam Lavery and Honey G.

16 – 18 March Footloose Stage Show

Pavilion Theatre, Worthing, BN11 3PX 01903 206206 Performed by Worthing Musical Theatre Company and based on the popular movie Footloose, this fast paced musical is about youth, rebellion and romance. City boy Ren, thinks his life is over when he is forced to move to Bomont, an American backwater. But things are worse than he imagined, as the town bans dancing. It won’t be long before Ren can’t resist breaking the rules. Thursday and Saturday matinee.

17 March Beauty and the Beast (PG)

Connaught Theatre, Worthing, BN11 1LG. 01903 206 206 In this live action retelling, Disney’s animated classic takes on a new form, with a widened mythology and an all-star cast. A young prince, imprisoned in the form of a beast, can be freed only by true love.

17 and 18 March Wow! Said the Owl

Founders Room, Brighton Dome, Church Street, BN1 1UE Wow! Said the Owl, the acclaimed children’s book by award winning author Tim Hopgood, is brought to life through a blend of beautiful story-telling, puppetry and music. Directed by Joy Haynes, this show will delight and excite children aged 2-5yrs.

18 March Togi’s Team Toys and Games

Fishbourne Roman Palace, Chichester, PO19 3QR. 01243 785 859 Join the Togi's Team Club for budding young archaeologists - an archaeology club for children aged 6-12 years. Discover children's games and toys from the past and find out how they were used over 2,000 years ago. Then make your own to take away. Sessions must be booked and paid in advance. 10am to 12.30pm / £15 per session.

19 March Mr Blooms Nursery Live

Devonshire Theatre, Eastbourne, BN21 4BW. 01323 412 000 The much-loved TV show Mr Bloom’s Nursery will be transformed into a live stage show retaining all of the core fun, inspiring and educational values but with a brand new storyline. Mr Bloom and his Veggies are getting ready for a very special occasion. A member of the Royal family is paying them a visit! Running Time: Act 1 – 30 mins. Interval 20 mins. Act 2 – 30 mins.

25 March TotRockinBeats

St Paul’s Centre, Worthing, BN11 1EE A three-hour festival of familyfriendly funk & foolishness. For an all-inclusive price: DJs playing a mix of Funk, Soul, Hip-Hop, Indie & Party Classics (Including the now legendary DJ Charming Vera) Go to www. dontbelievethehype.biz for more info.

25 – 27 March Taster Throwing

21 March Jurassic Adventures

The Regis Centre, 1 Belmont Street, Bognor Regis, PO21 1BL, 01243 861010 Suitable for ages 3 plus, contains mild peril and HUGE DINOSAURS! The most exciting family show since time began, is about to be discovered by you! Jurassic Adventures, is a brand new production, set on a magical island, where anything might happen, with a brave cast of amazing actors, a great fun script, superb scenery, and of course DINOSAURS. 5pm.

24 - 26 March Babe the Sheep Pig

Connaught Theatre, Worthing, BN11 1LG. 01903 206 206 Meet the lovable Babe in a heart-warming tale of friendship, adventure and bravery. An enchanting family favourite bought to life by a cast of West End performers in a show brimming with laughter, thrills, stunning puppetry and original music.

25 March Art@Amberley -Felt Flowers Making

Amberley Museum, Station Road, Arundel, BN18 9LT A new event for 2017, explore a new interest or skill, or just have fun with art. Each Art@ Amberley event will explore a different skill - this week will be looking at sewing felt flowers. Pre-booking is advised for a guaranteed space and reduced entrance price. Standard Museum entry applies on the day. £5 - Additional costs may apply.

The Painting Pottery Café, North Road, North Laine, Brighton, BN1 1YB If you are getting inspired whilst watching The Great Pottery Throwdown, then head down to these classes in the bright and spacious ceramics studio to learn some new skills for yourself. Taster Throwing for ages 10+. Various times, £30pp.

26 March Mother's Day at Borde Hill

Borde Hill Lane, Hayward's Heath, RH16 1XP Borde Hill Garden is opening especially for Mother’s Day. Treat mum to an early springtime walk before the Garden opens to the public on 1st April. Complete the day with lunch at Jeremy’s Restaurant or Café Elvira (lunch bookings required).

26 March The Sooty Show

Devonshire Park Theatre, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BW Izzy wizzy let’s get busy! Sooty is back in a brand-new show with guaranteed giggles for the whole family! Direct from CITV, Sooty, Sweep and Soo head into town accompanied by TV’s Richard Cadell. Mr Slater has put Richard in charge of running the show but nothing is going to plan! 11am and 2:30pm.

2 April South Of England Classic Motorcycle Show

South of England Showground, Ardingly, RH17 6TL Large indoor motorcycle only show for pre-1980 motorcycles with Club Stands and hundreds of machines on display.

3 - 5 April We’re Going on a Bear Hunt

Devonshire Park Theatre, Compton Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4BW Direct from a smash-hit WestEnd and international tour, Michael Rosen’s award-winning book is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in this funfilled adaptation.

4 April Babies in Museums

Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, Royal Pavilion Gardens, BN1 1EE A fun, stimulating experience for you and your baby/toddler (0-18 months). Play and learn together and discover new ways to nurture your child’s interests. 11am, £5 per child.

6 - 13 April Circus Zyair

Brighton Racecourse, Race Hill, Brighton, BN2 9XZ A magical circus experience for all the family, including jugglers, acrobats, magic, high wire, the wheel of death and a whole bunch of colourful acts.

Easter Surprises! Mon 17th Fri 21st April 11am - 3pm Join in with some springtime crafts and have a go at our Easter treasure hunt around the Palace grounds.

PO19 3QR 01243 785859 w w w. s u s s e x p a s t . c o. u k

26 March Sundae Club

Komedia, 44-47 Gardner Street, Brighton, BN1 1UN Four fabulous hours of creative fun for children ages 2 to 8. Featuring theatre show Prince & the Pea, live music from The Swing Ninjas and a craft workshop. 11am, £7 per person/£27 family ticket.

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Easter Days Out Dusty’s Giant Duck Hunt at Arundel Wetland Centre

The giant duck hunt is back at Arundel Wetland Centre April 8-23 and it’s fast becoming an Easter tradition for many Sussex families. New this year, a special duck is on hand to help! Dusty Duck, the children’s character created by the world famous Aardman studios for the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, will be encouraging children and their families to find the missing rubber ducks. The big, bright yellow ducks are not always as easy to spot! Children can find the members of the flock to win a delicious chocolate treat. Families can get unrivalled closeup views of wetland birds this spring by travelling right among them. You’ll be down at a swan’s eye level when you board the free Wetland Discovery boat safari en at Arundel Wetland Centre. Follow your sense wh Save 10% of adventure through the reed bed with you book online at dragonflies skimming over your head and wwt.org.uk/Arundel ducklings cruising alongside. The underwater worlds of ponds are endlessly fascinating to children and adults alike. Go pond dipping at Arundel Wetland Centre to fish out wild wonders, with WWT volunteers on hand to help you ID your catch. Pond dipping and children’s crafts run every day during Easter holidays. All Easter activities are included in your admission price. Arundel Wetland Centre, BN18 9PB

12 | Tel: 02393 117 561 | editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

With so many events this Easter, it’s hard to know which ones to choose! So here’s our pick of favourite family days out that will make for a really special Easter...

Lindt Gold Bunny trail at Hever Castle

For some magical family moments this Easter, hop through Hever Castle Gardens on the trail of the Lindt Gold Bunny to win an adorable miniature fluffy bunny. There’s family entertainment throughout the Easter holidays from 1-17 April designed to put a spring in everyone’s step. Children can make and decorate an Easter bonnet at daily craft workshops* (*small additional charge). There’s an opportunity to parade your creations in front of the Castle each day with treats for the best Easter bonnets. Enjoy more family fun in the Castle where you can take part in a fun Easter quiz. The Easter event is a great opportunity to explore the award-winning gardens. At this time of year you can enjoy a dazzling display of flowers along the moat and in the Italian Gardens from late flowering daffodils to hyacinths and blossom. As well as fun Easter themed activities and the gardens to explore, challenge yourself in the Yew Maze and see how long it takes you to find the way out? Then round off the day with seasonal home cooked food and mouth-watering cakes in the restaurant followed by a visit to the Gift Shop stocked with Easter goodies, including Lindt chocolate eggs and treats. Hever Castle Hever Rd, Hever, Edenbridge TN8 7NG

Springtime crafts and activities at Fishbourne Roman Palace Celebrate the coming of spring at Fishbourne Roman Palace this Easter. Explore the Roman gardens with an Easter-themed treasure hunt, try your hand at springtime crafts and lots of practical Roman activities including making a Roman sundial and use it to tell the time, spinning wool into yarn, Roman writing, make a Roman wreath to celebrate spring and play Roman games. Activities run from Monday 17th– Friday 21st April, 11am – 3pm. Fishbourne Roman Palace Roman Way, Fishbourne, Chichester PO19 3QR

Cruises on the Wey & Arun Canal, Loxwood

Jam-packed activity days at Super Camps

If you are in need of childcare over the Easter Holidays, Super Camps’ daily and weekly activity camps allow children to get the most out of their holiday time. The programme is jam-packed with fun activities that will keep your children entertained for hours, and their 'Outstanding' Ofsted ratings give you the peace of mind that your children are in the best possible care. Early Years crews for 4 to 5 year olds ensures learning and development within a fun environment. The 6 to 9 year old crews can explore new activities and take on new challenges such as The Avengers School of Archery, Super Camps Driving School and Motor Mania, while the 10 to 12 year olds can come together in their very own common room as well as spend more time tackling activities in depth. Running from Brighton and Hove Prep School, Radinden Manor Road, BN3 6NH with prices starting from £38 per day. www.supercamps.co.uk

Spring into Action at NEW Flip Out Chichester!

The long awaited Flip Out in Chichester is now open! Officially the fastest growing trampoline parks in the world, the Flip Out aim is to provide healthy and awesome fun, through massive trampolines, stunt box zones, ball games, events, and more surprises for everyone’s enjoyment.

Find Free Running, Dodgeball, Olympic Trampolines and a Ninja Warriors course for an hour of fun, then follow up with something to eat in the new Pizza Oven Cafe with raised mezzanine seating and an extended viewing platform. Flip Out, Glenmore Buisness Park, Chichester, PO19 7UW. Call 01243 256 590. Book online at www.flipout.co.uk

Spring babies at Blackberry Farm

Spring is an exciting time at Blackberry Farm as they eagerly await the arrival of their Spring Babies. Children can get up close and help bottle feed the gorgeous lambs and cheeky kids... a magical memory they will never forget! Soon there will be piglets and bunnies and plenty of eggs in the incubator to ensure there are lots of chicks in time for Easter. There’s lots going on over the Easter weekend too with loads of activities for your little chicks including real egg collecting, Easter egg hunt, crafts, face painting and lots more. Blackberry Farm, Whitesmith, Lewes BN8 6JD. Call 01825 872912

Specially themed Easter Cruises will be running on The Wey & Arun Canal on 14th, 16th and 17th April. Plenty of Easter characters will be on the canal to entertain you – the trips take 40 minutes and depart at 11am, 12pm and 2pm. Children will receive a chocolate gift from the Easter Bunny while adults can enjoy the chance to unwind and enjoy the scenery. Tickets are £10 per person, with refreshments for everyone included. Booking in advance is advisable.

Also booking for Mother’s Day cruises!

Bookings for all special events can be made via the Trust website. For enquiries about private charters, call the office on 01403 752403 or email office@weyandarun.co.uk. www.weyandarun.co.uk

Solve the clues along the Amberley Trail Explore the 36 acres and 40 exhibits at Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre and take part in a special Easter Trail around the Museum - follow the clues to win a prize! Station Road, Amberley, Arundel, BN18 9L amberleymuseum.co.uk

‘Lambs Galore…and More!’ throughout the Easter Holidays at Spring Barn Farm

Get ready to meet lambs galore…and more baaarilliant fun at Spring Barn Farm this Easter! From 1st - 21st April, head to the lambing barn to meet the cutest new arrivals and the ewes, and learn all Save when you about lambing time on the farm. Try your pre-book your hand at the new tick ets online at “Baa Baa Birthing’ springbarnfarm.com activity, complete with demo ‘mums’ and lambs, and find out what it is like to be a farmer at this time of year. You are bound to bump into the silly shepherdess, on the lookout for her cheeky sheep - she’s only gone and lost the flock! The ever popular Easter hunt returns, and will be available every day of the Easter Holidays this year. Pick up your egg box on arrival, and hunt for all the clues from around the farm ready to exchange for a yummy chocolatey treat in the Cock-a-Doodle Den! Spring Barn Farm is located Just 5 minutes from Lewes, or 15 minutes from Brighton at Kingston Road, Lewes, BN7 3ND

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12 – 19 April Easter Eggstras

Arundel Museum, BN18 9PA, 01903 885866 Easter themed craft activities, including decorating the Easter tree, seed planting, creating paper flowers and quizzes. Throughout the holidays, you can use their Bird and Nature Bingo Card. Normal admission applies 11am - 2pm.

8 and 9 April Brighton Marathon

12 April Easter Out and About

Patcham Methodist Church, Ladies Mile Road, Brighton, BN1 8TA A market full of pre-loved and hand-made goods to choose from. There’s often a bouncy castle, face painting and other activities for the little ones.

Finish Line is at Madeira Drive, Brighton, BN2 1PS The Brighton Marathon (Sunday) is one of the UK's favourite 26.2-milers with a stunning backdrop of the sea. This year’s Mini Miles race (Saturday) is now fully booked, so come down to support our youngsters as they race to raise money for Cancer Research UK Kids & Teens. Races start from 11am Sat and 9:15am Sun.

Mewsbrook Park, Rustington, BN16 2LX. 01903 732063, events@littlehampton-tc.gov.uk The popular Easter Holiday sessions in the park are back and this year there will be more eggsciting fun to be had. Free of charge, children aged 3-11 years are invited to the award winning Mewsbrook Park for a morning of energy-expending enjoyment. All children must be supervised by an adult. 10am - 12pm.

8 - 15 April Easter Bunny Boat Trips

8 - 23 April Spring into Easter

12 April Woods Mill Wild Woodies Spring Holiday Club

8 April Cheeki Monkeys Baby and Children’s Market

The Chichester Ship Canal, PO19 8DT, 01243 771 363 Enjoy this unique Easter experience on a Chichester Canal Boat! Fun and refreshments for all and a chocolate bunny for the children. Three trips a day departing at 11am, 1.15pm & 3.30pm. £10 per adult and child.

8 – 17 April Woodland Secrets Easter Egg Trail

Kew Wakehurst, Ardingly, Haywards Heath RH17 6TN Take a unique journey through the peaceful and tranquil woodlands this Easter on a secret Easter Egg trail. Beyond Wakehurst’s world famous botanic gardens and Millennium Seed Bank lies an enchanted world of woodlands. A new woodland trail will wind through one of Wakehurst’s most beautiful oak woodlands. From charcoal burning and bodging to coppicing and dormice, the trail will help to unlock the woodland’s secrets and reveal its hidden charms. Combining elements of sculpture, play, art, music and science. For details visit www.kew.org/wakehurst

Fishers Farm Park, Newpound Lane, Wisborough Green RH14 0EG Crack open the fun with the family favourite ‘Easter Egg Hunt’ all around the farm (Easter Weekend only) You may even see a lamb being born! Have a cuddle with the cute baby rabbits and help find a name for the fluffy chicks in the ‘Name the chick competition’! Shout and cheer at the Farm Show and help bottle-feed the baby lambs in the ‘Animal Encounters Barn’.

10 April Alice in Wonderland

The Regis Centre, 1 Belmont Street, Bognor Regis, PO21 1BL, 01243 861010 Imagination runs wild and logic is abandoned in this fantastical, larger-than-life musical brimming with nonsensical fun and excitement for the entire family. 2pm / All tickets £7.50. Suitable for ages 4 plus.

12 April TOM'S Film Club presents: Paddington (2014)

The Old Market, Upper Market Street, Hove, BN3 1AS Cinema showing of the film adapted from the popular book. 3pm.

14 | Tel: 02393 117 561 | editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

Sussex Wildlife Trust, Shoreham Road, Henfield, BN5 9SD Explore the exciting world of minibeasts. Use a net to dive into the watery depths of the pond in search of water boatmen and newt tadpoles and learn all about the fascinating world of mysterious moths. Spend time at the camp site and practice safe fire lighting to make your own hot drink. Use natural materials to make a giant sculpture in the woods and make your own model to take home. Suitable for children 6-11 years. Booking essential 9am-4pm / £30.

14 April Short Stories, Tall Tales

Ropetackle Arts Centre, Little High Street, Shoreham-by-sea, BN43 5EG, 01273 441540 Storytelling for babies, toddlers and parents. Monthly storytelling from ‘Short Stories, Tall Tales’ brings classic and modern books to life through live performance and interactive, creative play. Suitable for ages 0 - 4 years. Duration 45 mins. .£5 per adult + 1 child, £2 per additional siblings. 1:30pm.

14 – 17 April Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt

Various National Trust Venues The National Trust has teamed up with Cadbury to offer families around West Sussex the ultimate Easter experience, with their ever-popular Easter Egg Hunts. This year, the Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt will be inviting families to unleash their inner explorers on egg hunts through woodlands, heathland, along nature trails and through spring gardens blooming with life. Find a Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at a National Trust property near you visit cadbury.co.uk/easter

15 April Easter Boutique Market

Brighthelm Church and Community Centre, Brighton, BN1 1YD With 50 traders, makers, artists and craftsmen from across the region. There will be a variety of quality products, food and drinks. The garden area focuses on street food, outdoor living, live music and inside is a stall holder market place. There is also face painting, games, live music and charity fundraising on the day for The Chestnut Tree House, a local Sussex charity.

15 – 17 April Normans and Crusaders

Arundel Castle, Arundel, BN18 9AB, 01903 882173 Set within a historical tented encampment, Raven Tor Living History Group will be recreating the crafts, weapons training, and battle tactics of the late 12th century. With a Story Teller, falconry, have-a-go-archery (over 8's) and archery/combat demonstrations the weekend will be filled with the sights, sounds and smells of the late Norman Period / £10.

19 April Easter Out and About

Brookfield Park, Littlehampton, 01903 732063 The free of charge popular Easter Holiday activity aimed at children aged 3-11 years. You are invited to the beautiful Brookfield Park for a morning of energy-expending enjoyment. Please note that parking at Brookfield Park is limited and there are no toilet facilities. All children must be accompanied by an adult. 10am - 12pm

21 – 22 April The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Connaught Theatre, 3 Union Pl, Worthing, BN11 1LG, The timeless classic has made its way off the page and onto the stage. Created by Jonathan Rockefeller, the critically acclaimed production of 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show' features a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets, faithfully adapting four of Eric Carle stories.

22 April Craft Fair

Village Hall, Storrington, RH20 4DZ. 07894 069164 Village hall craft fair and table top sale. From 9am.

23 April Pedal Along The Prom

Worthing Promanade, 01903 528613 Pedal along the Prom 2017 is raising money for the Ashdown Centre for children with disabilities and people with Dementia. Starting from George V Avenue and finishing at Widewater Lagoon. Free entry if you have sponsorship or £5 per adult and 50p per child. Please bring your own lunch.

23 April Naomi’s Wild and Scary

Brighton Dome, Church Street, Brighton, BN1 1UG Children’s TV presenter Naomi Wilkinson is embarking on a nationwide tour in spring 2017. The show will be packed full of fun and surprises as Naomi is joined on stage by ‘Animal Mark’, and some of his scariest creatures.

25 - 29 April Annie Stage Show

The Connaught Theatre, Worthing, BN11 1LG, 01903 206206 The heart-warming musical about a feisty orphan determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan. Wednesday and Saturday Matinee at 2.30pm

29 April - 1 May Foodies Festival

Hove Lawns, BN3 2WN Foodies Festival is delighted to announce the return of the UK's biggest celebration of food and drink in 2017 with the visual and culinary feast proclaimed the “Gastronomic Glastonbury” and a new and exciting Healthy Living focus.

30 April Brighton DIY Art Market

The Old Market, 11a Upper Market Street, Brighton, BN3 1AS Showcasing a curated selection of over 60 talented emerging artists from a wide range of artistic backgrounds, all of whom demonstrate an innovative and adventurous approach to their practise. 11am, free

BOOK AHEAD!

Are you organising a local event in 2017? Did you know you can now upload your own events to our website for FREE at www.familiesonline.co.uk You can also email them to us at editor@familiessussexcoast.co.uk

5 May – 4 June Brighton Fringe 2017

Various locations, Brighton, BN1 1EE England’s largest arts festival and one of the largest fringe festivals in the world. Set out to stimulate, educate & entertain a diverse range of people through a range of art form. This year sees over 100 shows planned for the kids and youth programme and two Fringe Family Picnics (6 & 27 May) www.brightonfringe.org

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Our nursery is part of Springfield School and is for children aged 3 and 4 years old.

Breakfast Club

Open during school hours

Highly Qualified Staff

The nursery is situated within the school building and is part of the everyday life at the school. We have highly qualified practitioners with years of experience in Early Years that work closely with the Reception staff team to ensure there is a quality approach to early learning and care, in a bright and stimulating environment with quality resources. If you are interested please call into or phone the school office to book an appointment to see us and to request an information pack. Springfield Infant School Sackville Road, Worthing BN14 8BQ Tel Number: 01903 219243 office@springfield.w-sussex.sch.uk

We are highly committed to giving your child the best start to life.

â€œSpace to grow and wings to flyâ€?

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