The essential local magazine for parents...
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North Devon & Exeter
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Issue 2 July/August 2012
❤ Summer Activities
❤ Support for new mums
Photo: Monsoon/Accessorize
❤ Preparing your children for school ❤ Money Saving Tips
www.familiesnorthdevonexeter.co.uk
❤ plus your local What’s On Guide & much more inside
July/August 2012
Editor’s Letter Hello
Following our first issue I have had an amazing response from readers - thank you! Hopefully you have all been enjoying the beautiful weather whilst reading the May/June issue and enjoying Devon before the rush! Assuming that summer has not been and gone already, we have lots of ideas for outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy during July and August. I’ve also thrown in a few ideas for rainy days, just in case! Make the most of the holidays and make 2012 a summer to remember - I’m sure it will be! In this issue you will find our reader survey - a great way to give your feedback and tell me what you want to see in the magazine. Return the survey and you could win the opportunity for your child to be on the cover. Don’t forget you can get in touch with us via the website, phone, email, twitter or facebook. We’d love to hear from you.
Contents News Competition
3 4
take part in our reader survey
Bumps & Babes
5
support for new mums
Summer Activities
6
take the family challenge
Free Summer Activities 8 ideas for all the family
Education
10
preparing your children for school
Clubs & Classes
extra curricular activities Families North Devon & Exeter
Kirstin Legg, Editor
@FamiliesNDevEx
Money Saving Tips
13
top 20 ways to beat the squeeze
What’s On
out & about
12
14-16
6 12 13
© Families North Devon & Exeter. We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences. Any original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families North Devon & Exeter nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families North Devon & Exeter is part of the Families ® group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license. Printed by Warners www.warners.co.uk
Next issue: September/October
• BACK TO SCHOOL • To advertise call 01271 863995 or email editor@familiesnorthdevonexeter.co.uk
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News
News If you have any news which our readers would like to hear about, send it to editor@familiesnorthdevonexeter.co.uk
Career with NCT Would you like to train as a practitioner with NCT? The University of Worcester and NCT have joined forces to provide university-accredited training for those wanting to support parents on their journey from pregnancy to parenthood. Admissions have just opened for this new course, which offers flexible training, perfect for anyone considering a change to a more familyfriendly career or looking to return to work after having a baby. With tutorials across the UK and study days hosted regionally, students can complete the majority of their studies without travelling to Worcester. So, if you’re looking for a rewarding job you can fit around your family, becoming an NCT practitioner could be just the thing. www.nct.org.uk/nct-college
Olympic Torch visits West Buckland School The Olympic Torch made a surprise visit to the delight of pupils at West Buckland School in North Devon on Monday 21 May. Fresh from carrying the torch through Ilfracombe, former pupil and member of the London 2012 Organising Committee Jonathan Edwards was greeted by hundreds of excited pupils. The main school drive was lined with Union Jacks as the school welcomed the former Olympic, European and World Triple Jump champion who still holds the world record for his 18.29m jump set at the World Athletics Championships in Gothenburg in 1995. Jonathan attended the school from 1976-1984. Headmaster at West Buckland School, John Vick said: “We are delighted that Jonathan was able to bring the Olympic Torch to the school. Our pupils had been told to prepare for a surprise visitor. They gave Jonathan a really warm welcome and it is fantastic they were able to share in the excitement of the Olympic Torch.” Jonathan Edwards said “I love this place and it is always good to come back. London 2012 is about inspiring a generation of young people through sport and it’s been amazing to see the reaction of young people today, both along the main relay route and here at the school. It’s been an amazing privilege to carry the torch”.
Adopting a new perspective By Sarah White
It was a sunny day in June when I decided to adopt a new perspective. The view was staggering – 15,000 feet above the rolling hills and fields of East Devon. If I’m honest, peering out over the drop, it looked more like 30,000 feet. I tried to remember those on the ground who were cheering me on – the fantastic team at Families for Children, our local Voluntary Adoption Agency. A sponsored skydive seemed like a great way to raise funds for this very worthy cause and brought me my one-way plane ticket. However, my work in the Michelmores Family Team with children and prospective adopters is what gave me the courage to jump out of it.
Centre for children offering free places on Saturdays Thanks to recent expansion and generous funding from BBC Children in Need, Headway Devon’s children’s centre is able to offer free places to local children who are living with the effects of brain injury. The centre meets in Exeter, but provides support for children from across the county. Children’s centre manager, Claire Atkinson explains, “Headway Devon also works with children whose brains may have been damaged as a result of meningitis, choking or suffocation, brain tumours, and many other illnesses and accidents. “It can be really difficult to know if your child is experiencing problems as a result of brain injury, but some of the things that we look out for include physical disabilities, thinking and learning problems, and emotional, social and behavioural difficulties. For instance, a lot of the children we help experience mood swings, limited concentration, anxiety, and epilepsy.” If there is anyone reading this who thinks that their child might be living with the effects of brain injury, I’d really encourage you to get in touch with Headway and ask if they can help. You don’t need to go through a professional – you can just explain to them what you’re seeing and they will listen to your concerns. Brain injury is often difficult to recognise so Headway Devon do not ask for a formal medical diagnosis – if you know a child who may be experiencing difficulties as a result of a brain injury, please call Headway on 01392 211822 or email claire@headwaydevon.org.uk
A little extra peace of mind this summer It’s every parent’s worst nightmare: losing their child on a beach, at a theme park or when you’re out shopping in a crowd of people. To give parents a little extra peace of mind this summer, Chambers & Beau has come up with a cute and simple personalised ID bracelet that has your mobile telephone stamped on it. Says Amy Elson, from Chambers & Beau, who is mum to Sam and Molly: “Having your child wear your mobile number means that if they do get separated from you, someone can call you straight away to let you know they are safe and sound. The bracelets are secured with a coloured waxed cotton cord and can’t easily be removed, so there’s no chance that they can just fall off in the sea or if they’re playing with them. I know lots of mums who would sleep a little easier at night knowing their little ones are wearing one.” Priced £35, the Child’s Safety Bracelet is made of sterling silver and is hand-stamped for a quirky finish. www.chambersandbeau.com
There are many myths surrounding adoption and fostering so allow me to dispel some of them. Anyone over 21 can be assessed to adopt a child and there is no upper age limit. You don’t have to be in a relationship or married, single couples and those in civil partnerships are all able to apply. Factors such as income, religion, weight, disability, previous fertility treatments/children and criminal history should not dissuade you from enquiring into adopting a child. The paramount consideration is simply that you can provide a child with a stable and loving home. Adoption isn’t the only option. For some the prospect of creating or extending a ‘forever family’ can be a little daunting. Fostering is another option. In the UK a child comes into Local Authority care needing a foster carer every 22 minutes, every day. To offer a disadvantaged child a loving home be it through adoption or fostering, is challenging, even scary, but immensely rewarding – a bit like a skydive!
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Competition
Reader Survey How much do you really love us? (Be honest!)
Many readers have already told us how much they love Families - thank you! However we don’t want to rest on our laurels. We want to know what you think: what you like, and what you’d want more of - or less of. Please fill in and return our questionnaire to be entered in the draw to win a fabulous prize! 1. How much of each issue do you read? All of it from cover to cover More than half Articles which catch my eye
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2. Which element is the most useful of all? (tick max two) Articles
❏ List of holiday activities ❏ Lists of clubs and classses ❏ What’s On in your area ❏ Party venues and entertainers ❏ Adverts ❏ Local news ❏ 3. How often do you contact advertisers you’ve seen in Families Often Occasionally Never
4. Which advertiser type have you contacted after seeing them in Families? Nursery School Children’s activity class Childcare agencies Health practitioner/therapist Party supplier Parenting course Photographer Private tutor Holiday/family hotel Services (like cleaners/gardeners etc)
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5. Online how do you find most of your family-related information? (about local nurseries, schools, clubs and classes, local news and events etc) Tick all relevant to you. I do use FamiliesOnline I never use FamiliesOnline I mostly use Google
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I mostly use other sites such as ..........................................................
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Return t h today to e survey wi shoot fo n a photo ry to be ou our child r next co ver star!
6. In your opinion, which category of information is the hardest to find online? A really good searchable list of what’s on events in my area Specific parenting articles Children’s activity classes Local nurseries and schools Local plumbers, carpenters etc More news about my area To chat to local mums Reviews (Books/products/restaurants) To sell my unwanted stuff
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Other................................................. 7. Tick any that applies to you I have and use a Facebook account
Please return the survey by 31st August to Families Magazine, 3 Montpelier Road, Ilfracombe, EX34 9HP
❏ I have and use a Twitter account
If you prefer to enter online please follow this link :
❏ I own a smart phone, tablet or plan
www.surveymonkey.com/s/7JSTGQB
to buy one soon
❏
I use a what’s on app, if so which one do you like and use? ..........................................................
❏ ❏ ❏
WIN!
It should take no m than 2 m ore inute to fill in s !
If you would like to be entered into the prize draw, don’t forget to enter your email address. Data will be treated in confidence and your data will not be passed on to a third party. Winners will be notified directly. One entry per family. Editor’s decision is final, no cash alternative.
8. Which age group are you in? 20 something 30 something 40 something 50 something
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Pitc h fromes £9
9. How would you describe Families to a friend? .......................................................... .......................................................... .......................................................... 10. Any other comments or things we could improve? .......................................................... .......................................................... ..........................................................
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We left feeling a part of the family
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Thank you for your time. My email .......................................... ......................................................... ......................................................... My postcode........................................
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Luxury 5* facilities Lodges for hire Children’s play parks Coffee shop Licensed shop Wi-Fi Dishwashing & launderettes Dog exercise area Woodland walks 4 miles from Woolacombe Beach Caravan storage
Hidden Valley Quality family holidays Hidden Valley Park, West Down, Nr. Ilfracombe, North Devon EX34 8NU info@hiddenvalleypark.com
01271 813 837
www.hiddenvalleypark.com Families ad.indd 1
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24/04/2012 19:39
Bumps & Babes
Support for new mums It can be tough, but there’s help out there... So, you’ve had a baby. You’re a new mum and of course you’re tired, but you’re also elated and amazed at this tiny new being that has entered your life. You spend every waking hour staring in adoration at their tiny little toes and gorgeous little mouth. Your exhaustion doesn’t matter as you drift from day to day in a haze of milky delight.
By Joanna Parry
get a warm welcome and you will find these meetups invaluable, I promise you. Alternatively, join a class. This will give you an opportunity not only to meet other mums but also to bond with your baby.
Start with a baby massage class, where simple massage techniques help stimulate your baby’s senses. Many local health services run free massage classes and there are plenty of private Or maybe you don’t. If you are like me then those classes around too, often including postnatal first few weeks, even months of being a new mum support alongside baby massage. Baby massage are the hardest days of your life. Not only are you has also been proven to help enormously with exhausted after weeks of unbroken sleep but you’re mums suffering from postnatal depression. also struggling with breast feeding and getting your baby to take a bottle, your baby is unsettled Baby yoga is also a great way to encourage and suffers from reflux and why oh why won’t it baby-parent interaction. A natural transition just go to sleep? Even if it’s your second or third from baby massage, it incorporates stretching, baby, it’s still just as hard. You’ve got baby blues, relaxation and yoga techniques, enabling you or perhaps even post-natal depression. Now the and your baby to create a joyful interaction. most important thing you can do, even if you don’t There are many baby yoga classes across feel like it, is to get out there, meet some other new Devon. mums and get some support. Activity classes. These don’t have to be expensive, so shop around. Choose from music classes to drama to sensory stimulation classes – even for newborns! It’s a great way to get If you’re tired, struggling to bond with or feed your out of the house, meet other new mums and baby or have a touch of the baby blues, there are compare notes. Find classes for young babies in plenty of support networks out there. our clubs & classes listings on page 12. Health visitors – health visitors are there for the welfare of babies and their parents, and your health visitor should support you in whatever way they Helpful websites can. They should get in touch with you in the first www.nct.co.uk If you feel up to it, get a babysitter for an hour or few days of you returning home from hospital, but www.direct.gov.uk/en/Parents two and treat yourself to some quality ‘me’ time. if you don’t know how to reach your Health Visitor www.nhs.uk Try a day spa for a pampering and revitalising your doctor’s surgery will be able to tell you www.home-start.org.uk treatment, or many of the ‘Yummy Mummy’ clubs that are springing up across the country offer Home-Start is a charity that helps parents by Support for twins spa treatments as well as a range of classes and providing volunteer support. Whether you’re www.twinsuk.co.uk support groups for new mums, usually with crèches struggling to look after your baby or suffering from onsite. www.tamba.org.uk postnatal illness or even just feeling lonely and isolated, Home-Start can help. Volunteers offer regular support, friendship and practical help to Postnatal depression young families under stress in their own homes. The visits are flexible and you decide together what to Postnatal Depression (PND) is often not fully understood by mums who experience it, yet one in do during that time. three mothers will suffer from it. Becoming a parent can be a shock and it is perfectly normal to feel Call 0800 068 63 68 for details of your local Homeemotional, vulnerable and sensitive after your baby is born. Some mothers may feel confused about Start their feelings - they feel they should be overjoyed and instantly fall in love with their baby but this is not always the case, especially if you’ve had a difficult labour or a traumatic delivery. Baby blues typically Children’s Centres (also called the SureStart occur between 3-5 days after the birth, and one theory is that they coincide with the hormonal changes programme) have been developed throughout that occur as the breast milk starts to come in. Another theory is that they are due to the ‘come down’ England to help parents, with many offering support after the effects of endorphins, or a sort of physical shock reaction after the upheaval of birth. You may groups for new mums as well as stay and play feel weepy, irritable, have a low mood and feel that you lack confidence in being able to look after your sessions, baby clubs, postnatal and breastfeeding baby but these feelings usually subside after a week or so. However, postnatal depression is more classes. Find your nearest centre at www.direct. serious and must be treated immediately. Symptoms of PND can include: gov.uk/en/Parents
Treat yourself
NCT runs Bumps, Babies and Beyond groups across the country, where you can make friends and share experiences with other new mums, and support is provided. Drop-in centres, playgroups and baby groups offer vital postnatal support and advice. Most importantly, they don’t cost more than a pound or two.
Meet a mum and join a class Whether it’s a picnic in the park, a coffee at Starbucks or a mother-and-baby group it’s important to get out there and meet other new mums. The NCT arrange regular coffee mornings and local playgroups often arrange get-togethers outside of the playgroup. You don’t have to ‘join’ these groups or go every time, but you’ll be sure to
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sleeping problems crying a lot not eating or over-eating physical pains such as headaches or stomach pains or blurred vision a lack of motivation to get up and do anything a constant sense of anxiety, sometimes escalating into panic attacks a feeling of being lonely or isolated having difficulty concentrating feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope having no interest in sex feeling guilty about everything and wondering if you are a bad mother being overly protective of your baby feeling emotionally disconnected from your baby having frightening thoughts about harming yourself or your baby or about bad things happening
If you feel any of the above, it is important to seek professional help. Your GP may suggest antidepressant medication and/or counselling and your health visitor will know about local postnatal depression support groups. You can also go to www.apni.org or www.birthtraumaassociation.org.uk for information, support and advice. Also, tell your family and close friends, as talking about your feelings is part of the cure.
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Lena S/Shutterstock.com
Support groups
Summer Activities
Take the family challenge
Go Ape! Tree Top Adventure
A tree-top adventure makes for an adrenalincharged day out with the children – and while you’re up there, you get some brilliant views as well! Personally, I’ve never been so happy to be back on solid ground as when I got down from the terrifying heights of the forest course I tried out with my kids...but on the upside, at least I did make it down, and relying on them to help me through the most white-knuckle parts of the course went a long way in terms of family bonding!
Until recently Go Ape! has been restricted to over-10s, but there’s now a new course at two of the company’s 27 centres nationwide – Thetford near Brandon, and Moors Valley Country Park near Bournemouth. It’s designed for children as young as four, although they also need to be at least a metre tall, and it’s an hour-long course which, like the over-10s Go Ape! courses, takes children (and their parents) through a network of looping obstacles five metres above the forest floor, including the spider’s web, log balance and jungle crossing, before finishing on a tree-to-tree zipwire. For children over ten there is a centre at Haldon Forest, near Exeter. Prices: Go Ape! costs £30 for adults, £20 for 10-17 year olds. The new junior course costs £15 for any age. For more information see www.goape.co.uk For North Devon try the Ultimate Adventure Centre near Bideford. They provide a wide range of activities including high ropes and have some great offers for families, see www.theultimatehigh.com for more details.
2. Climb the rocks Rock-climbing is apparently one of the fastestgrowing sports in Britain, and giving it a try makes for a great family day out. Like all the best family challenges it’s about supporting one another, learning new skills, encouraging people when they need it, and celebrating newfound abilities and courage! Family climbing courses abound – google to find one in your area – and most are for complete beginners
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give the kite a forceful yank to get it into the sky. More adventurous families can progress to kitebuggying and kite-boarding, in which you use the power of an airborne kite to propel yourself along on a vehicle on the ground. Kite-flying tuition costs around £50 for a half-day’s family tuition. For more information on Kevin Baker see www.sbkites.co.uk. For information on kite flying lessons in Devon see www.adventure-devon.co.uk
3. Ride the tracks For a family with people who can’t get around very easily – elderly grandparents, for example, or other people with special needs – you can’t beat a trip on a steam railway. Most of these railways, preserved from Victorian times, are in areas of breathtaking natural beauty – Visit the West Somerset Railway and enjoy 20 miles of spectacular coast and countyside travelling from Bishops Lydeard to Minehead. The railway also host a number of special events including Days out with Thomas and Fish & Chip Specials. For more information go to www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk Alternatively on the Dartmouth Railway you can take in the breathtaking scenery as you travel from Paignton to Kingswear through the wooded slopes of Long Wood bordering the Dart Estuary. See www.dartmouthrailriver.co.uk Or go to www.steamrailwaylines.co.uk for the lines across the UK
4. Take an underground walk There’s something strangely thrilling about taking a walk through a cave, into the very inside of the earth – the atmosphere is quite different from anywhere else you’ll ever go,and the memories of what you see and experience stay with you for a long time. And, of course, every child needs to understand the difference between those stalactites and stalagmites. Some of the best caves in the country are at Cheddar Gorge and Wookey Hole, both in Somerset. Not suitable, though, for a buggy or a wheelchair. Tickets from around £15 for adults, £10 for children, depending on how extensive the caves are and how much else there is to do at the attraction. For more information on the caves mentioned here see www.cheddargorge.co.uk or www.wookey.co.uk
5. Fly a kite Every family has a kite or three, usually given as birthday or Christmas presents and with fiendishly difficult-looking instructions. We sometimes thought about taking our children to fly them, but something always held us back – usually doubts about how to do it, and whether the area we were planning to kite-fly in was actually big enough. But a lesson from Kevin Baker of Southern Breeze, a kite-flying operation based at Baiter Park on Poole harbour, set us straight: Kevin showed us how to make sure we were in a suitable kite-flying area (you need to use your thumb to check the height of the surrounding obstacles, to make sure they’re far enough away), and you need to
Mark Parker Kitevibe.com
1. Swing through the forest
and take children from about eight (although some specialise in working with younger children). Look for a course where you have a dedicated instructor: you’ll learn (amongst other things) how to belay (ie hold the ropes safely) and how to make the most of the rock’s features for your hands and feet. If you’re looking for a family challenge in a rainy period, look up climbing walls in your area and see if you can hire an instructor for a family session there instead.
6. Go mountain biking Like a lot of city families we have a houseful of bikes, but we tend not to do anything more adventurous than go to friends’ houses or the local shops on them. Mountain biking is a whole different experience from a short trip down the road: we went to try it on the South Downs, where the gentle (and not-so-gentle) inclines make for great off-road cycling adventures. You don’t, of course, have to use an instructor to get to grips of mountain biking: but if you’re taking kids with you, and you want to get a real thrill out of your day (plus you won’t need to get the bikes there, because the instructor will provide them) then I recommend a course. Our teacher, Richard, gave us lots of confidence to
All biked up
Summer 2012 is going to be all about active fun (it is the Olympics, after all) and getting out and about in the UK (which is, for all of us cash-strapped families, a lot cheaper than going abroad). So what are the best activities to enjoy en famille? Joanna Moorhead investigates...
By Joanna Moorhead
try out manoeuvres we’d never otherwise have tried (cycling over logs, for example – and yes, it’s a lot scarier than it looks when you’re in the saddle!). He also revealed the number one rule of mountain biking, which is never look down. You have to look straight ahead, focusing on the furthest point of the trail, because if you look down you’ll change your centre of gravity and fall off. We loved our day learning to mountain bike: the children (who need to be over about seven) were a lot better than the parents, but even the parents managed things they’d never have believed they could do! Expect to pay around £40 per person for mountain biking tuition, including bike hire. For more information go to www.allbikedup.com; or for details of courses near you see www.abc-of-mountainbiking.com
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Summer Activities
7. Try potholing Potholing has a scary reputation, and it’s not for the fainthearted (or those with claustrophobia). But if you’re a brave clan and up for an adventure, it can be an extraordinary experience to journey into the underworld dressed in what resembles a miner’s gear, and to edge your way through spaces you didn’t believe you’d ever fit through. Coming across underground chambers is magical – as is seeing the daylight come back into view when you finally make your way out! Potholing with an instructor costs around £40 per person for a session. For information on where to find an instructor, see www.caving.uk.com
8. Find a geocache Geocaching is one of those things that sounds totally perplexing to anyone who’s never tried it, but is a huge hit with almost everyone who has. The idea is to find some ‘treasure’ – treasure that’s hidden in a box, and is findable using a hand-held satnav system (any will do). The treasure in question usually consists of a plastic box like a lunchbox with a whole host of miscellaneous bits and pieces in it – things like small toys, CDs, pens, anything. The rule is that when you find your treasure you’re allowed to take one thing out, and you must put one thing in – and sign the log book of course. The treasure is hidden everywhere and anywhere – in cities, in the countryside, even underwater. For more information see www.geocaching.com
9. Go canoeing Canoeing centres up and down the country offer equipment hire and instruction for families who want to dip their toes in the water. Your instructor will help you learn how to paddle, how to turn and how to negotiate rapids – and he or she will also ensure that you’re canoeing in a suitable place, and in suitable weather, for the age of your children (which is crucial, because accidents can happen quickly in canoes). What’s especially lovely about canoeing is that, as well as the skills to learn, you can also have a day out that’s close to wildlife – look out for fish, water birds and dragonflies. If you’re lucky you might even spot an otter or a water vole. For more information see www.canoe-england.org.uk/go-canoeing/
10. Get into metal detection There’s something almost absurdly exciting about setting off with a metal detector and seeing what you’re going to turn up – even though it will, in all probability, be complete rubbish. Because there’s always that chance of finding treasure – or even, and this is almost as good, remnants of the way other people lived, in another age. Another big plus is that this is an adventure anyone can enjoy – great for families with small kids in buggies or anyone in a wheelchair (though you need to chose your terrain wisely). For more information see www.ncmd.co.uk
Summer Camps Summer camps explained.... by Heather Waddington So you are thinking a camp might be a great way to keep the kids busy over the long summer break... but what are the differences and how do you know which one to choose? Let us break it down for you...
What type of Camp would suit your child?
Reside tia l or Day Cn amp?
Residential Camps are holidays where your child can st the holiday ay during course, ofte n further aw from your ho ay me and som etimes includ activities no ing t available locally. Day Camps are holiday s at a local where you Sports Coaching holidays offer specialist courses venue can take yo ur child on in a single activity such as football, basketball, basis. Times a daily m ay va ry but they are tennis, cricket or golf. usually arou nd 8. additional co 30am – 4pm with sts for early Outdoor adventure holidays may involve one or more starts and later fin ishes. challenging activities such as abseiling, climbing, orienteering or zip wire. Centres offering this type of course may also offer watersports. Multi activity holidays offer a selection of different activities every day, usually including a range of sports, creative or adventure activities – ideal for the child who does not want to attend a specialist course in a single activity.
Creative arts holiday courses may involve arts & crafts, pottery, sculpture, etc. Performing arts holiday courses may offer specialist or multi activity courses in activities such as dance, drama, mime, singing or behind the scenes stagecraft. Computer / Technology courses may be specialist courses or part of a multi activity programme including activities such as computer games, web design, programming, design and technical production skills. Horse riding holiday courses are available at specialist riding centres offering full or half day courses in riding and stable management. Watersports centres offer holiday courses in single activities such as canoeing, kayaking, sailing or windsurfing as well as multi watersports courses offering taster sessions in a range of activities. Lastly always see if you can talk to other kids and parents who have been on the camp, as always, the best form of testimonial is from those who have done it before you!...
What age group would be b est?
Do you wan t your child mixing with a varie ty of ages? Would you prefer they the same ag were all roughly e? Check w ith th camp provi der to see ho e w the children attending ar e grouped – by ag ability? by in e? by terest?
Using Childcare Vouchers to Pay for Summer/Holiday Camps Summer camps are fun and exciting; children can experience activities they would not usually experience. Camps are a great tool to use if you are a working parent and need childcare or to simply encourage your child to engage in more social activities. The cost of sending children to camps is an important factor. Did you know you can use your childcare vouchers, taken as a salary sacrifice via your employer, to pay for the cost of most summer camps. Be savvy, if you intend to send your child to a camp in the following year you can save up childcare vouchers to pay for the costs. As childcare vouchers are tax free and national insurance exempt, parents using childcare vouchers taking the full amount, depending on their salary, can save up to £933 per parent, per year on the cost their childcare. Busy Bees are campaigning to raise the weekly childcare voucher cap from £55 to £75 per week to help parents save more on the cost of the childcare. Raising the cap will increase savings per parent to over £1200 per year. If you want to save more sign the Busy Bees e-petition. For more information please visit www.busybeesbenefits.com
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Summer Activities
Free Summer Activities
It’s only a matter of time until you hear the inevitable cries of “I’m bored!” so hear’s a few ideas to keep everyone entertained without breaking the bank...
Oh we do like to be beside the seaside! Rock pooling Next time you go to the beach take a tub or bucket, a net and some suitable footwear and explore the rock pools. Rock pools are home to a wide biodiversity of plants and animals which have adapted to live in these surprisingly harsh environments. The best pools are exposed at low tide so it’s important to keep an eye on the tides. Take along a camera or sketch pad to record your findings so you can carry out some further research at home. Build a sand sculpture Ok so we’re not really talking about sandcastles here - a sand sculpture is much more imaginative and fun. Get everyone involved in a large sculpture or have your own mini competition. Why not practice for the UK Sandcastle competition in Woolacombe (see p16) or pop along for some inspiration. Dune sledding Most of us have a sledge in the shed or garage which hardly gets used so take it along to the beach and go sand sledding in the dunes.
Getting out and about! Take a picnic Get the whole family involved in planning a picnic, choosing the food, going shopping and preparing the hamper. Then choose your spot and enjoy some quality time together without interruptions. Plan a bike ride A bike ride is a great way to get everyone active, young and old. We’ve put together some advice for planning a family
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bike ride on the opposite page. Make the most of our fantastic cycle routes and get pedalling! Go Walking Get everyone together for a family walk or try geocaching (see p7). Our top tips for family walking are on the next page. Explore your local library Encourage your children to look in different sections for books they wouldn’t usually choose and find out what activities are on offer over the summer. Don’t forget storylab (see page 11 for more details). Visit a market Soak up the atmosphere and see what’s on offer at a local farmers market. There are local markets taking place regularly across Devon. Ilfracombe Farmer’s Market The Lantern 2nd & 4th Saturday every month Combe Martin Farmer’s Market Village Hall 3rd Sat every month 9:30-12:00 Wrafton Farmer’s Market Wrafton Hall 2nd Sat every month 9:30-12:00 Barnstaple Farmer’s Market Pannier Market Tuesdays and Fridays Exeter Farmer’s Market Bedford Square Every Thursday 9am2pm
Making the most of being at home... Set up camp Have some fun setting up a camp in the garden, get the paddling pool out and have a barbeque before toasting some marshmallows and sleeping out under canvas.
Head indoors Have a few plans for a rainy day, Buy some ingredients for a cake or get some craft supplies ready for the inevitable rainy days! Water fight in the back garden Wait for a really hot day and get the water pistols out to cool off!
National Trust 50 Things The National Trusts 50 Things campaign encourages children to take to the outdoors and enjoy classic adve ntures from skimming stones to building dens. You can pick up a free 50 Things To Do Before You’re 11¾ scrapbook from participatin g properties and continue at home by visiting www.nationaltrust.org .uk/50things See how many things you can tick off over the summer (not no.11 hopefully!) 1. Climb a tree 2. Roll down a really big hill 3. Camp out in the wild 4. Build a den 5. Skim a stone 6. Run around in the rain 7. Fly a kite 8. Catch a fish with a net 9. Eat an apple straight from a tree 10. Play conkers 11. Throw some snow 12. Hunt for treasure on the beach 13. Make a mud pie 14. Dam a stream 15. Go sledging 16. Bury someone in the sand 17. Set up a snail race 18. Ballance on a fallen tree 19. Swing on a rope swing 20. Make a mud slide 21. Eat blackberries growing in the wild 22.Take a look inside a tree 23. Visit an island 24. Feel like you’re flying in the wind
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25. Make a grass trumpet 26. Hunt for fossils and bones 27. Watch the sun wake up 28. Climb a huge hill 29. Get behind a waterfall 30. Feed a bird from your hand 31. Hunt for bugs 32. Find some frogspawn 33. Catch a butterfly in a net 34. Track wild animals 35. Discover what’s in a pond 36. Call an owl 37. Check out the crazy creatures in a rock pool 38. Bring up a butterfly 39. Catch a crab 40. Go on a nature walk at night 41. Plant it, grow it, eat it 42. Go wild swimming 43. Go rafting 44. Light a fire without matches 45. Find your way with a map and compass 46. Try bouldering 47. Cook on a campfire 48. Try absailing 49. Find a geocache 50. Canoe down a river
Summer Activities Top tips for fun family walking Make it an adventure - Don’t suggest ‘going for a walk’, make it an outing or adventure to somewhere like a park, a playground, woods or a pond; treat them to a picnic or take something to eat and drink along the way.
14 July - 2 SEpt
Take it nice and slow - Be prepared to go at their pace, stopping to play and look at things on the way, and to cut the walk short if they get tired. With regular walking children will build up their fitness just as an adult does but keep walks short until you know about their abilities. Go prepared - Make sure they have comfortable clothes and shoes, and extra layers in case of rain or cold weather. Safety First - Remember hats and sun cream, and take something for bites and stings.
at
Let them bring a friend, team up with another family, or join a led walk that’s suitable for families. Get Creative - You could plan fun activities and games like a treasure hunt or I-Spy; look out for animals, birds, trees, people, buildings, colours, or collect tree seeds, leaves, shells, and small stones. Take photographs along the way they can put in a walker’s diary; get them involved in planning and running the walks, perhaps plotting the route on a map and map reading during the walk.
EdEn
Hi. I’m the lorax.
I speak for the trees. They’ve got a lot of trees at Eden so I feel right at home. Did you know that this summer you’ll find all sorts of Lorax-themed activities at Eden?
Top tips for fun family cycling Plan your route - Get the children involved at the planning stage to help with their map skills. Don’t try to do too much if your family is not used to cycling, maybe have a shortened version of the route planned as well. For North Devon don’t forget the surf and cycle bus is available. National Cycle Network - The National Cycle Network provides safe and attractive routes perfect for family bike rides, see www. sustrans.org.uk for local routes, and include any smaller places you recommend – such as local parks, cafes etc.
Help to create a fabulous ‘Let-it grow mural’, just like in the film, follow a Lorax trail through the Biomes and see exclusive behind the scenes clips. You’ll even be able to make your own super stylish moustache, just like mine! As well as all that, you can build your own den, perhaps taking inspiration from the Once-ler’s tent!
Summer Evenings
Eden’s also open later (until 8pm) on Tues, Wed & Thurs from 24 July to 30 August with BBQs, live music and lots of Lorax fun!
Wear bright or reflective clothing - Especially important if some or all of your ride is on road.
Stay hydrated - Don’t forget to take water and have regular breaks, also take some snacks or plan to stop off at a cafe for refreshments. Take it slow - Children will enjoy the scenery along the way so don’t rush, go at a leisurely pace. Invite a friend - Cycling in a group is more fun so you might like to invite a friend or two. Stay safe and have fun!
In cInEmaS July 27 2012
Registered charity no. 1093070
Be prepared - Take a small bike tool kit with puncture patches and a pump. You may also want to take a small first aid kit and some wipes.
The movie Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax © Universal Studios. Based on The Lorax book and characters TM & © 1971 Dr. Seuss Enterprises, L.P. All rights reserved.
www.edenproject.com The Eden Project, St Austell, Cornwall PL24 2SG Tel. 01726 811911
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Education
Preparing for school As soon as you find out which school your child is going to this September, it’s time to start preparing. Forget force feeding them phonics, this is about getting your child ready for the social challenges of school. The more prepared they are, the easier they will settle and the more they’ll get out of those early days.
Are they able to recognise their name?
If your child can recognise their name, they’ll be able to find their peg, identify their drawer in the classroom and find their cardigan if it gets misplaced. Starting school can make even the most confident child feel a little lost. If they can locate important places, it will make them feel more in control.
Are they used to sharing?
Sharing is a difficult lesson for a child to learn, especially if they only start learning it at school. But it’s a vital lesson if you want your child to settle in and make friends easily. No one wants to play with the boy who refuses to take turns and share, and before long that child becomes isolated. Start to make a point of praising your pre-schooler for sharing his bag of figures or his last few sweets.
Can they use scissors?
Can they use the toilet on their own?
Reception classrooms usually have a toilet nearby but children are expected to use it on their own. That can mean less confident children avoid a visit until it’s too late. Encourage your child to begin taking toilet trips without you to build up their confidence. Remind them that hand washing is part of the ‘visit’. Beginning school toilet training now will mean less accidents in September.
Can they follow simple instructions?
The school day is full of instructions. Your child will be asked to put coats on pegs, bring packed lunches into classrooms and sit cross legged on the carpet for circle time. If a child is used to following instructions, they will avoid being reprimanded. The more time a teacher dedicates to repeating instructions and encouraging co-operation, the less time there is for teaching. Start giving your child simple tasks – perhaps helping with the weekly shop or with some straight forward jobs around the house. It will prepare them for school life.
By Sarah Butters
Teachers look for this in the early stages of Reception to evaluate dexterity. Get crafty over the next few months.
Are they able to eat independently?
Lunchtimes can be a real flashpoint in the early days of your child’s school life. Dinner halls are noisy places and can make a child feel overwhelmed. Make sure they arrive at school able to pick up and use a knife and fork. If they’re opting for a packed lunch, make sure they can open a yoghurt, put a straw in a juice box and peel a banana.
Can they dress themselves?
Imagine the scene. One teacher faced with thirty children and their coats. By the time each child is zipped up and wrapped up, playtime is over. If your child is able to go some way to helping, they may get some fresh air. If you can see buttons on trousers and skirts becoming a problem during the post PE change, invest in elasticated waistbands. These will also help during any ‘last minute’ toilet visits. Avoid tights in the early days - they can also lead to unnecessary bathroom accidents. With shoes, laces and buckles are a no-no. Stick to Velcro fastenings which your child can do themselves.
Can they communicate with an adult?
Giving your child the skills to communicate with their teacher means they will be able to have some control. How else will they ask to go to the toilet? If they don’t understand how to get the attention of an adult, how will they let their teacher know they don’t understand their work? A child who can communicate will get more out of the school day than a child who is unwilling to speak up.
Are they able to count?
If your child is about to count up to 20, and count back from 10, this will give them a really good head start. Use some of their favourite toys or foods to make counting fun. Lay out 10 grapes and get them to eat them one by one, counting as they go. It will give them confidence and help them see learning as fun. Plus it’s a great way to get one of their 5 a day down them!
Do they understand discipline?
It’s important your child understands what’s expected of them when they arrive at school. They need to know hitting, kicking, biting and hair pulling will not be tolerated. Not only will it bring your child to the attention of the head teacher for all the wrong reasons, but it will make your child unpopular with their classmates. Reputations earned in the early days of school tend to stick and can be hard to shake off.
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SOME BOOKS YOU MAY FIND USEFUL: * I am too absolutely small for school (Charlie and Lola) by Lauren Child * Topsy and Tim Start School by Jean Adamson * Starting School Sticker Book (Usborne) by Felicity Brooks * Going to School (Usborne First Experiences) by Anna Civardi * Starting School by Janet and Allan Ahlberg
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Photo credit: sdenness - Fotalia.com
Education
Online literacy resources Join your local library Reading Eggs and Reading Eggspress Reading Eggs is an online literacy resource designed to make learning to read an enjoyable experience. Children love working and playing on the computer and the Reading Eggs and Reading Eggspress programs are all about bringing out the best in each child using unique worlds of interactive reading and writing activities. The programs have been developed by a highly experienced team of educational teachers, writers and developers. They focus on a core reading curriculum of phonics and sight words using skills and strategies essential for sustained reading success, supporting what children learn at school.
The Reading Eggs program…
Reading Eggs includes 120 literacy lessons that take a child from foundation stage through to the end of key stage 1. In addition to the lessons there is Reading Eggs World which caters for children who already know the basics of reading but who still have much to learn about reading, writing, spelling, and comprehension. Children are able to choose their own adventure from a wide range of activities and places to go, including the following content: The Story Factory – an introduction to creative writing Driving Tests - has 15 sight word tests, 15 letters and sounds test and 15 content word tests. Puzzle Park - 32 word puzzles and practise sight word recognition. Skills Bank - 96 spelling lessons that take students up to the end of Key Stage 1. Storylands - builds reading, vocabulary and comprehension skills. The Arcade - 24 arcade-style games used as rewards to motivate children to keep learning.
The Reading Eggspress program…
Using a highly engaging spinning island, children are instantly involved and interested. They explore a complete world with a wide variety of both learning and fun experiences. The range of activities motivates students to return regularly to complete lessons, compete against others, earn more rewards and improve their skills. There are 4 areas of the Reading Eggspress world:
for the Summer Reading Challenge
Libraries across the UK are gearing up to introduce children to an imagination paradise that will keep them reading throughout the school summer holidays.
Story Lab, the 2012 Summer Reading Challenge™ run by The Reading Agency, an independent charity, aims to inspire children to read in their holidays. With incentives and rewards, plus a certificate or medal if they complete the Challenge, children can sign up at your local library from the end of June. “Pop down to your local library and find out more about what’s happening,” says Anne Sarrag, Summer Reading Challenge director, “and help your children discover a love of stories whilst they develop their reading skills over the summer holidays.” An interactive Story Lab website www.story-lab.org.uk launches this month, enabling children to talk about their favourite books, or follow the Summer Reading Challenge at www.facebook.com/#!/SummerReadingChallengeUK.
Using promotional code UKS24NDE you can trial the programs for free for an extended period of 5 weeks. Simply visit www.readingeggs.co.uk, register your email address and once your account has been set up you can enter the code on your parent dashboard. Happy Eggsploring!
Library - holds more than 1000 e-books including illustrated chapter books, full-colour nonfiction books and a range of classics. The Comprehension Gym - holds 200 interactive comprehension lessons over five broad levels from years 2 to years 6 with 40 lessons per year level. The Stadium - tests skills in spelling, vocabulary, usage and grammar. Apartment and Mall - children can use their golden eggs to buy avatar clothes and apartment furniture. Within the apartment all of the trophies, medals and trading cards children have collected can be viewed and children can also complete a 100-level quest-style game to expand and refresh learning and earn more golden eggs. Progress within the Reading Eggspress program is measured by the completion of targets. These are split over 4 levels and help to give children some guidance and structure for learning. Both the Reading Eggs and Reading Eggspress programs have a comprehensive reporting system that tracks progress so that students and their parents can clearly see each child’s achievements.
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Clubs & Classes
Extra Curricular Activities Exeter City Swimming Club Exeter 01392 432254 www.exeterswimming.info
Ilfracombe Swimming Club Ilfracombe 01271 855546 www.ilfracombeswimmingclub.org. uk Academy of Swimming and Training Swim School Ilfracombe, Barnstaple, South Molton 01598 760562 www.astswimschool.co.uk Barnstaple Swimming Club Barnstaple 01271 343861 www.barnstapleswimmingclub.co.uk
FOOTBALL
©iStockphoto.com/naumoid
Splash Swim School North Devon Berrynarbour, Kentisbury, Bideford 01271 325 181 www.splashswimschoolnd.co.uk Torridgeside Swimming Club Torrington 07791 964544 torridgesideswimmingclub@hotmail. co.uk
Enjoy-a-ball Bideford, Northam, Woolsery, Westward Ho!, Torrington 07791 382443 www.enjoy-a-ball.com
Ben’s Pre-School Football Ilfracombe 07792 388891 bens-footballcoaching@hotmail. co.uk
Rugby Tots Exeter, East Devon 0845 313 3248 www.rugbytots.co.uk
Brazillian Soccer Schools Braunton, Barnstaple 07814 899960 www.icfds.com/northmiddevon
MUSIC
Arsenal Soccer Schools Braunton, Barnstaple, Exeter 07810 867354 www.playthearsenalway.com
Aquarius Swim School West Buckland 01271 329750 www.aquariusswimschool.co.uk
SPORTS COACHING
Little Kickers Exeter 01392 668281 www.littlekickers.co.uk Exeter City Football Club Exeter 01392 255611 www.exetercityfitctrust.org.uk
TENNIS Ilfracombe Tennis Club Ilfracombe 07879 882877 Tarka Tennis Centre Barnstaple 01271 377701 www.tarkatennis.net
Torridge Pool Northam 01237 471794 www.1610.org.uk
Woolsery Tennis Club Bideford 01409 241620 www.northdevontennis.com
Splash Swim School Exeter 01392 833075 www.splashswim.co.uk
Exeter Tennis Centre Exeter 01392 723699 www.exeter.ac.uk/sport exetertenniscentre
Noisy Nippers Braunton 07776 261541 www.noisynippers.co.uk Bumbles Musical Workshop Barnstaple, Bideford 01271 325181 www.bumblesmusicgroup.co.uk Monkey Music Exeter 0845 017 8766 www.monkeymusic.co.uk WriggleRhythms Exeter 07738 237928 www.wrigglerhythms.co.uk
DRAMA Drama Play Exeter 01392 679197 www.dramaplay.co.uk Stagecoach Theatre Arts Exeter 0800 389 3712 www.stagecoach.co.uk/exeter Stagecoach Barnstaple 0800 783 1390 www.stagecoach.co.uk/barnstaple
DANCE Project Dance Barnstaple, Appledore 01271 346384 www.projectdance.co.uk Neat Feet Dance Academy Barnstaple 01271 850704 www.dancingschoolbarnstaple.co.uk Dancing Feet Academy of Dance Braunton 01271 816 213 www.dancingfeetacademy.co.uk
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Streetz Dance Crew Barnstaple, Torrington, Bideford 07854 975823 www.streetzdancecrew.com
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©iStockphoto.com/suzyoliveira
SWIMMING
June Bealey School of Dance Exeter www.junebealeyschoolofdancing. co.uk Joanna Mardon School of Dance Exeter 01404 823 980 www.joannamardonschoolofdance. co.uk Exeter Academy of Dance Exeter 01392 824453 www.exeteracademyofdance.co.uk
GYMNASTICS Falcons Gymnastics Academy Barnstaple 01271 859191 www.falconsgymnastics.co.uk North Devon Gymnastics Club Bideford, Barnstaple, Torrington 07765 248461 www.northdevongymnastics.org.uk Exeter Gymnastics Club Exeter 01392 250381 www.exetergymclub.org.uk
FOR BABIES Pollyclinics Baby Massage Barnstaple 01271 268001 www.pollyclinics.com Baby Sensory Barnstaple, Exeter 07775 734285 www.babysensory.com Bebe Swimming Barnstaple, Exeter 0870 034 5627 www.bebeswimming.co.uk Water Babies Exeter 01392 278377 www.waterbabies.co.uk/local/ westcountry Baby Gym at Exeter Olympic Gymnastic Club Exeter 01392 250381 www.exetergymclub.org.uk
Money Saving Tips
Top 20 Ways to Beat the Squeeze Rising inflation, increases in fuel and energy prices and budget cuts on top of existing financial pressures are driving more and more UK families to join the ranks of the ‘money saving super savvy’ – those voucher-wielding, bargain-hunting mums and dads whose prudent attitude to spending has become a way of life.
MyFamilyClub.co.uk, the UK’s first website dedicated to money saving for families, has polled 6,000 of the nation’s parents and asked them to share their family’s greatest money saving tips. From buying in bulk to keeping chickens, MyFamilyClub.co.uk unveils the top20 most popular ways our nation’s families are making savings in these times of austerity.
1 Shop around
Use money saving websites, comparison sites and forums to find the best price before you buy. There are real deals to be had if you look around, from buying holidays to insurance.
2 Budget, budget, budget
Assess your income and expenditure and create a budget. That way you’ll be less likely to spend more than you can afford and more likely to stay within your means.
3 One man’s trash is another man’s treasure
Buy and sell secondhand on auction sites like eBay and in charity shops, and take advantage of hand me downs that are often as good as new. Remember to save the packaging from new items to give you better secondhand resale value.
4 Before you buy.…
Always ask yourself, “Can I live without it? Do I really need it?” Don’t waste money on things you don’t need and can easily do without.
5 Food glorious food
Plan the family’s weekly meals so you don’t end up throwing away food that’s past its use by date. And always cook more than you need so you can freeze a few portions for another day. Plus try reusing leftovers the next night in a new dish - if you’re inventive, the kids will never know.
6 Trolley dash
Do your grocery shop online so you’re less tempted to buy more than you need. If you have to shop in store, draw up a list before you get there and don’t deviate. Also, if possible, leave the children at home so you don’t end up with more in your trolley than you bargained for!
7 Buy in bulk
Stock up on offers, deals and bargains of items you use regularly. If you have a baby or toddler, take advantage of the special baby events at supermarkets where they heavily discount bulk buys on items like nappies and wipes.
8 Never pay full price
Before you buy, always look for a relevant voucher or discount code online, and use cashback sites too. And don’t forget to cut out coupons from magazines and newspapers they can be quite generous.
9 Name drop
Consider buying value brands for some items, from school uniform to nappies and wipes, you could save a fortune and you’ll never notice the difference.
10 Savvy Saver
Open a savings account and pay into it as regularly as you can. If you don’t have any spare cash try saving your weekly family allowance or child benefit. A little saved week by week will mount up in no time.
11 Credit Crunch
Try not to use credit cards. If you do have to, then make sure you pay them off as quickly as possible to avoid costly interest.
12 Know your worth
Keep a close eye on your finances so you’re in control of your funds. This way you’ll be less likely to incur bank charges. Use internet and telephone banking for quick and convenient ways to check your account status.
13 Life lessons
Teach your children the value of money by making them work for pocket money, doing household chores for example. And learn to say no sometimes, it’s a valuable life lesson for them.
14 999
Set aside funds for an emergency situation, whether it’s for a leaking pipe or busted boiler, it’s always helpful to have something in reserve so you don’t have to rely on costly credit arrangements.
15 Forget the Joneses!
Don’t feel under pressure to have what other people do. And teach your children not to worry about peer pressure either, so they don’t feel the need to have all the latest gadgets and brands.
16 Buyer Beware!
Don’t buy too many expensive toys for your children, especially ones that won’t last. Instead, let them use their imagination, it’s free.
17 Get more from your loyalty
Use supermarket vouchers and loyalty points against family days out instead of against your shopping. You get up to four times the value.
18 Ruffle a few feathers
Keep chickens they can lay up to 320 eggs a year – which is around one box of eggs a week.
19 Supply and demand
Contact your broadband/TV/energy/insurance suppliers and tell them you’re thinking of leaving, they’re likely to offer you a better deal. And check your energy and utility bills and request any overpayments.
20 Use local services
Make the most of public services like libraries, parks and leisure centres. With library services under threat there’s never been a better time to go there. With some children reading more than 100 books a year, this could save you a small fortune.
MyFamilyClub.co.uk is the UK’s first website dedicated solely to making money saving easy for families. The website brings together all the best ways to save under one roof. Featuring best buy tables on the products that matter to families; discounts, deals and voucher codes from the places parents want to buy from; offers and giveaways; competitions and prizes. Plus money-can’t-buy independent saving advice and guides on issues that matter, from budgeting to benefits. www.myfamilyclub.co.uk
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What’s On
Out & About ATTRACTIONS
NT ARLINGTON COURT
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/arlington
Companion Dog Show
Sunday 1 July 11am-3pm A great day out for your canine friend. Braunton Dog Club are hosting this dog show in aid of ‘Hounds for Heroes’. Rosettes will be given for 1st-6th place, with classes for pedigree, family dog and obedience. Normal Admission Charges Apply
11am-2.30pm See our garden team pruning pear and apple trees in the walled garden. Learn tricks of the trade and pick up tips on how to keep your fruit trees healthy and productive. Find the team in the walled garden. Normal Admission Charges Apply
Recycling your rags
Saturday 18 August 11am-4pm Join our drop-in workshop and learn the art of rag rug making. See how old clothes and bedsheets can be made into colourful creations. Have a go, learn the basics and be inspired to take up the craft at home. The event will take place in the Carriage Museum gallery. Normal Admission Charges Apply
Batty family fun
Tuesday 7 & Tuesday 21 August 7.30pm-9pm Enjoy fun and games on a batty theme with our knowledgeable Ranger. Find out what bats like to eat, where they live, how they fly and what they sound like. Meet in the main car park. A must for all nature loving children. Booking Essential 01271 850296
Art Trek @Arlington Court Sunday 8, Saturday 14, Sunday 15 & Saturday 21 July, 11am-3pm This year we will be hosting Deborah Hastings, who recycles old rags into beautiful rugs and more. You can see some of her work and learn the techniques involved. Normal Admission Charges Apply
Tiny Transport
Sunday 29 July 11am-3pm Come and travel into the past in miniature with model boats sailing on the pond, created by Ilfracombe Model Boat Club, model aeroplanes and more! Normal Admission Charges Apply
Living history
Friday 3 August 11am-4pm Join Hands on History as they recreate the Victorian era at Arlington Court. You may be enrolled as a servant in the house, or trained as a ladies maid. Normal Admission Charges Apply
Plot to Plate
Sunday 5 August 11am-4pm Have your tastebuds tempted by our outdoor cookery demonstrations. See the homegrown produce from our walled garden transformed into tasty dishes and try to pick your favourite. Recipes will be on sale. Normal Admission Charges Apply
Pruning fruit trees
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Thursday 9 & Thursday 16 August
Outdoor theatre: Grimm Fairy Tales
Friday 24 August 6pm-8.30pm Watch the Pantaloons theatre company recreate fairy stories from the weird and wonderful world of the Brothers Grimm. The performance will take place on the front lawn of the house. Wear warm, waterproof clothing and bring a chair or rug to sit on. Booking Essential 01271 850296
Victorian Arlington
Monday 27 August 11am-5pm Visit Arlington and be taken back into the glamour of the Victorian period. Come along in your own Victorian costume and get a reduced entry fee. The costumed guides will be in the main house. Normal Admission Charges Apply
We have taken every care in preparing the listings in this magazine but sometimes events are cancelled or times change, so please double check details before setting out. outdoors and building your own den from natural materials. Follow directions from reception building. Activities change each week. Please call property for details.
Soap making demonstrations
Saturday 7 July, Saturday 4 August 12-3pm Seek out our Education room and see local soap maker Lynn Lewis create her lovely smelling products. Plus buy some to take home. Normal Admission Charges Apply
Arlington Characters Come to Life
Sat 14 Jul, Sat 11 Aug, 11.15am3.30pm Come to meet a cast of characters from 1883, who lived and worked on the Arlington Estate. From gamekeeper to coachman they all have an interesting story to tell. Pick up timings and locations from reception. Normal Admission Charges Apply
NT KILLERTON
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/killerton
Summer holiday tractor trailer tours
Sundays 22 July – 2 September 1.30-4pm Discover the history of the landscape and best views of the garden. Tours depart throughout the afternoon, weather dependant. Normal admission and £2.50 per passenger
Victorian Experience
Tuesday 24 & Wednesday 25 July, 11am-4.30pm Come dressed in Victorian costume and take your picture in our Victorian photographic studio. Play with Victorian toys, become a butler or parlour maid in our 10 min role-play sessions and discover the secret language of Victorian flowers. Normal admission.
Wild Wednesdays
Theatre in the garden: Macbeth
Tuesday 7 August 7pm The Lord Chamberlain’s Men perform this Shakespearian drama. Bring a rug or chair to sit on. Adult £15, child £10, call 0844 249 1895 or go to nationaltrust.org.uk/killerton to book tickets
Fairy and Elves Day
Wednesday 8 August, 12-4pm Come dressed in your fair and elf best. Follow a fairy trail around the garden, join a fairy dance, listen to magical stories, make a fairy crown and have your face painted. Normal admission plus £2 activity charge
Civil war weekend
Saturday 11 & Sunday 12 August 11-4.30pm Discover more about Devon’s turbulent history during the civil war period and see what life was like in a royalist camp. Normal admission.
Witches and dragons
Wednesday 15 August 2-4pm Go on a wizard’s quest through Killerton’s parklands and garden and decipher the secret spell that will conjure up our legendry dragon. Will the dragon appear? Find out in a finale performance at 3.30pm Normal admission plus £2 activity charge
Theatre in the garden: The Importance of Being Earnest
Tuesday, 21 August 7pm Sit and enjoy this Oscar Wilde classic performed by the plantoons, bring a rug or chair to sit on. Adult £15, child £10, call 0844 249 1895 or go to nationaltrust.org.uk/killerton to book tickets
We’re going on a bear hunt!
Wednesday 22 August 2-4pm Go on a bear hunt around Killerton’s gardens. Bear trail, face painting and interactive storytelling sessions at 2.30pm and 3.30pm. Normal admission plus £2 activity charge
Wednesday 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 August 11am-4pm Go wild on our estate - explore the outdoors with our Ranger team, follow trails, search for creepy crawlies, or create some artwork using natural materials. Dogs on leads welcome. Different activities will take place on different days. Call the property for more details the week before.
Princes, Princesses and Frogs
Fun Friday with the Rangers
Friday 27 July, Friday 10, 17, 24 & 31 August 11am-4pm Discover nature, from the soil to the sky. Join in with our fun outdoor activities from trails, to cooking
their friend! Meet Pooh Bear and join in a grand teddy bear’s picnic. With Children’s entertainment, face painting, and a teddy bear trail around the garden. Normal admission plus £2 activity charge
Malcolm Jarvis/National Trust
Teddy Bear’s Picnic
Wednesday 1 August 2-4pm Fun and games for teddies and
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Wednesday 29 August 2-4pm The Killerton prince has been turned into a frog. Find six fairytale characters in the garden who can help us to free him. Will he succeed? Find out in a finale performance in the garden at 3.30pm. Normal admission plus £2 activity charge
What’s On
www.rhs.org.uk/rosemoor
Owl. There will be flying displays at 11.30am and 2.30pm which will include an element of audience participation! Normal Garden Entry
Batik Making
Tuesday 31 July, 11am - 1pm or 2pm - 4pm
Workshop for children with Karen Hawkins. By using a very simple version of batik, a resist method of applying colour to fabric, we will celebrate African culture and the use of batik in African textile work. Normal Garden Entry - Kids go Free. RHS
African Drumming Quentin Blake Exhibition
11am - 4pm Everyday until 27 August This summer, Rosemoor is giving you the chance to come and delight in the art of the man who brought some of your favourite book characters to life from Mister Magnolia to the BFG and Matilda. Rosemoor’s garden team is recreating Quentin Blake’s Green Ship in the garden. Normal Garden entry
Small Wonder: Puppet Show by Armchair Puppet Theatre Tuesday 24 July, 11.30am and 2.30pm A long time ago (well, today actually) in a colourfully painted wooden puppet theatre, intricately made glove, rod and shadow puppets tell the story of a Mayor’s quest for a ‘wonder never seen before by human eyes’ in order to appease his demanding Queen. Normal Garden Entry
Traditional Tales, Fascinating Folklore and Sung Stories
Thursday 26 July, Performances at 11am, 12.15pm, 2pm and 3.15pm Dramatic, dynamic and, at times, hilarious interactive storytelling sessions with Rob Pudner and Dexter Newman. These ‘Entertainingly Different’ storytelling sessions are suitable for the young and old alike and promise to bring a smile to the faces of all! www. entertaininglydifferent.co.uk Normal Garden Entry
Falconry Display: North Devon Falconry Centre
Saturday 28 July, 10.30am - 4pm Martin Simkins from the North Devon Falconry Centre will be on site with his display of Harris Hawks, a range of Falcons (including Lanner and Peregrine) plus a magnificent Bengal Eagle
Thursday 2 August, 11.30am 1pm or 2pm - 3.30pm Workshop for children with Johnny Bongo and Samuel Nkrumah Yeboah Rosemoor’s own Johnny Bongo and brilliant Ghanaian master drummer Samuel Nkrumah Yeboah will take you on an exciting tour of vibrant African rhythms. Normal Garden Entry - Kids go Free
How Stories Came to Be
Friday 3 August, 11.30am - 1pm or 2pm - 3.30pm. African Story Walk with Michael Dacre of Raventales Michael Dacre, renowned Devonshire storyteller, will lead you down the garden path and beguile your imagination with exotic and exciting stories from Africa. Normal Garden Entry - Kids go Free
Rosemoor Local Produce Show: Grow it - Show it
Saturday 4 August 11.30am (after judging) - 3pm Categories for both adults and children. Cookery demonstration and workshop for children. Pick up a show schedule from Rosemoor or call 01805 626 800. Get growing and join in the fun! Normal Garden Entry
The Importance of Being Earnest: Open Air Theatre
Soil Painting
Mask Making
How Night Came
Saturday 11 August, 7pm (Garden remains open from 6pm) This delightful adaptation of one of the most quintessentially English summer favourites is sure to appeal to a wide audience. Garden open for picnics from 4pm. Adults: £10, Under 16’s: £7 Tuesday 14 August, 11am - 1pm or 2pm - 4pm Workshop for children with Rosemoor’s Education Team See some amazing masks from different cultures, cut out your own and decorate with fallen leaves and petals from the garden. Normal Garden Entry - Kids go Free. Dropin activities for children 8-12 years
Dreamtime Painting
Wednesday 15 August, 11am 1pm or 2pm - 4pm Workshop for children with Karen Hawkins. Learn about the Aboriginal idea of the creation story and how it is represented in paintings. You can decorate a wooden panel or even make an elaborately painted cardboard didgeridoo. Normal Garden Entry Kids go Free.
Thursday 16 August, 11am - 1pm or 2pm - 4pm This workshop focuses on Aboriginal soil painting. Learning to use traditional techniques, you will create your own painting using different coloured local Devon soils. Normal Garden Entry - Kids go Free. Tuesday 21 August, 11am - 4pm Come along and make your very own shadow puppet at our drop-in workshop then return at 2.30pm for a rehearsal before taking part in the performance of this delightful South American folk tale which explains ‘How Night Came’. The afternoon performance at 3pm is free and open to all. Normal Garden Entry Kids go Free.
Magnificent Masks and Marvellous Mud Models
Thursday 23 August, 11am - 1pm or 2pm - 4pm Come along and join Mrs Recycle for the opportunity to make your own magnificent mask out of old plastic milk bottles and decorate using colourful paper, feathers and other recycled items. Normal Garden Entry - Kids go Free.
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Paper-making
Tuesday 7- Thursday 9 August, 11am - 1pm or 2pm - 4pm Workshop for children with Rosemoor’s Education Team Find out how paper is made, using Chinese techniques over 2,000 years old. See some examples and then make your own using newspaper pulp decorated with flower petals. Normal Garden Entry - Kids go Free.
Creepy Crawlies Day
Wednesday 8 August, 11am - 1pm and 2pm - 4pm With Joe de Witt Vine of Reptobug Well known in Devon for his weird and wonderful collection of exotic spiders, snakes, insects and lizards, Joe will have on show creepy crawlies from Asia for you to see and touch if you dare. Normal Garden Entry - Kids go Free
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RHS ROSEMOOR
Out & About
Nannies Available to suit your family commitments: There when you leave for work A relaxed atmosphere when you come home Housework done Baby sitters for evenings and occasional days Wedding Nannies Holiday cover now available
May: 07977 438060
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Kate: 07966 471186
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Out & About archaeological gear. Part of the CBA Festival of Archaeology. £2 per child, adults free.
THE BIG SHEEP
www.thebigsheep.co.uk
Meet Thomas the Tank Engine
Sunday 1st July Thomas the Tank Engine and The Fat Controller are making their debut visit to The BIG Sheep. They will both be saying goodbye to the other engines, Edward, Henry, Percy and Gordon and travelling from the magical island of Sodor to see their North Devon fans.
Help for Heroes Day
Sunday 8th July Show everyone who your favourite hero and come dressed as a nurse, soldier, policeman, fire officer, paramedic etc. and entry to the BIG Sheep, when accompanied by an adult will be free – Adults can also dress up – This is a charity event for the Help our Heroes charity.
Meet Peppa Pig
Bank Holiday Monday 27th August Everyone’s favourite pig, Peppa, will be on site meeting and greeting her fans – Don’t forget to bring along you camera and get up a close up shot cuddling Peppa.
MUSEUMS
Creative Clothing
Wednesday 1 August, 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30 to 3.30pm Use the museum’s marvellous collection to inspire clothing designs and pattern pages. Accompanying adults can watch/ supervise for free. Tickets £6.
Second Skin
Thursday 2 August, 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30 to 3.30pm Make costumed models inspired by the collection: from military uniforms to costume dress. Accompanying adults can watch/ supervise for free. Tickets £6.
Fashion Parade
Friday 3 August, 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30 to 3.30pm Make costumes and masks or bring your own and join in a fashion parade. Parades are at 12 noon and 3pm at RAMM’s garden entrance, weather permitting. Accompanying adults can watch/ supervise for free. Tickets £6.
Power of Pattern
Wednesday 8 August, 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30 to 3.30pm Come and explore pattern. Tickets are per participating person. Accompanying adults can watch/supervise for free. Tickets £6.
Painted Ladies
RAMM
Queen Street, Exeter Activities are popular; buy your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. Tickets are available in person or by phone using a credit or debit card on 01392 265858 during opening hours. Some activities are messy so do wear clothes that can get dirty.
Rebuilding the Past
Sunday 15 July, 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm Rebuild a pot, make a mosaic with real Roman tesserae and sort one pot from another. Bring your camera and be photographed in
Thursday 9 August, 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30 to 3.30pm Look at RAMM’s collection of butterflies and make some colourful copies. Accompanying adults can watch/supervise for free. Tickets £6.
Wonderful Words
Friday 10 August, 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30 to 3.30pm Explore the art of illuminating letters and make poetry pictures. Tickets £6.
Pots of the Pueblo
Wednesday 15 August, 10.30am
to 12.30pm and 1.30 to 3.30pm Use clay to create pots based on the brilliant designs of the native peoples of North America. Tickets £6.
and decoration? Make your own plaster pieces and reflect on the exhibition A Symphony of Curves. Accompanying adults can watch/ supervise for free. Tickets £6.
Thursday 16 August, 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30 to 3.30pm Explore the patterns of North American beaded art and leather working. Accompanying adults can watch/ supervise for free. Tickets £6.
Friday 31 August, 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30 to 3.30pm Make shapes and moulds using playdough, plasticine and other modelling materials. Especially for younger children. Accompanying adults can watch/ supervise for free. Tickets £6.
Beautiful Beads
Back to Front
Friday 17 August, 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30 to 3.30pm Make your own printed designs using lino-cuts and other printing techniques. Accompanying adults can watch/ supervise for free. Tickets £6.
Secret Books
Wednesday 22 August, 10.30am to 12.30pm or 1.30 to 3.30pm St Nicholas Priory, the Mint, off Fore Street, Exeter EX4 3BL Explore secret books and hidden treasure. Drop-in. Normal admission charges apply: adults £2, children £1.
Kirtles and Gilliflowers
Thursday 23 August, 10.30am to 12.30pm or 1.30 to 3.30pm St Nicholas Priory, the Mint, off Fore Street, Exeter EX4 3BL Try on fantastic Tudor costume and draw your own Tudor embroidery. Drop-in. Normal admission charges apply: adults £2, children £1.
Medieval Mystery
Friday 24 August, 10.30am to 12.30pm or 1.30 to 3.30pm St Nicholas Priory, the Mint, off Fore Street, Exeter EX4 3BL Find out about the mysterious items that the Prior brought back from the East. Where are they hidden? Book for either a morning or afternoon 2 hour session. Normal admission charges apply: adults £2, children £1.
What a laugh!
Wednesday 29 August, 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30 to 3.30pm Explore animation humour and find out how the museum can raise a laugh. Tickets £6. Accompanying adults can watch/ supervise for free.
Under the Rose
Thursday 30 August, 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30 to 3.30pm How did they make plaster ceilings
Making an Impression
EVENTS Taiko Festival
www.kagemusha.com Friday 29 June - Sunday 1 July Exeter
UK National Sandcastle Competition www.sandcastle.org.uk Sunday 8 July 11am-3pm Woolacombe
Chagstock Music Festival www.chagstock.info Friday 20 - Saturday 21 July Chagford
Mid Devon Show
www.middevonshow.co.uk Saturday 28 July Tiverton
North Devon Show
www.northdevonshow.com Wednesday1 August Umberleigh
Nowhereisland
www.nowhereisland.org Saturday 4 - Sunday 5 August Exmouth Saturday 1-Tuesday 4 September Ilfracombe
Beautiful Days Festival
www.beautifuldays.org Friday 17 - Sunday 19 August
Tiverton Balloon Festival www.tivertonballoonfestival.co.uk Friday 24 - Monday 27 August Tiverton
Westcountry Storytelling Festival www.weststoryfest.co.uk Friday 24 - Monday 27 August Embercombe near Exeter
Sea Ilfracombe Festival www.seailfracombe.co.uk Friday 31 August - Tuesday 4 September Ilfracombe
Look out for the September/October issue • Including school open days & extra curricular activities •
To advertise call 01271 863995 or email editor@familiesnorthdevonexeter.co.uk www.familiesnorthdevonexeter.co.uk