The really useful magazine for parents of children aged 0-12
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� Manchester Issue 27 May/June 2011
Parties issue
Fun! Fun! Fun! For everyone Special deluxe party packages tailored to suit all ages, needs and budgets
• • • •
Famous Makeover Parties for all ages Teenage Model Parties Any Themed Party available Fun Face Painting & Wild Tattoo parties (perfect for boys & girls) • Arts and Crafts • Bouncy Castles • Free personal invitations • Prizes and party bags for everyone, plus a special gift for the birthday girl or boy Makeovers include hair, light makeup and nail polish
Tel: 0845 241 7855 Mobile: 07930 397710 CRB Checked.
WWW.PARTY-PRINCESS.CO.UK
Every Bride has her own unique radiance on her special day. Enlisting the help of professional hair stylists and makeup artists will ensure you look and feel beautiful on your special day. Our professional team are dedicated to making your day perfect. For price list and packages telephone Rachael www.brides-unique.co.uk
Tel: 0845 241 7855 Mobile: 07930 397710
www.familiesmanchester.co.uk
Cash in with solar power Boost your family’s immunity
News & Views IT’S party time again and as usual we have a fantastic issue for you with loads of great ideas on how to make your child’s birthday extra special. See our parties feature and directory on pages 8-10. If you’ve ever thought of installing solar panels, but had been put off by the cost, then think again, as the government will now actually pay you to produce your own electricity! Find out more on page 6. We’ve also got some great ideas on how to naturally boost your immunity in our health feature on page 11. See you in the summer.
Helen Ash - Editor editor@familiesmanchester.co.uk 01625 801 801 www.familiesmanchester.co.uk Families Manchester PO Box 581 Macclesfield SK10 9FN
Contents 2 News & Views 5 RSPB Wildlife Action Awards 6 Save the Planet Make money from solar panels! 8 Parties Party ideas and directory
Celebrate National Families Week with Bamboo Childcare and Glo Family BAMBOO Childcare and Glo Family in Cheadle will be celebrating National Families Week with a Family Fun Day in aid of the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital. The event will take place on Friday 3 June from 2.30-4.30pm in Glo Family’s gorgeous gardens or in their studio, should the weather not play ball. There will be a number of activities on offer during the afternoon from Footytotz, Enjoy-a-Ball and Pyjama Drama, plus face-painting, dancing and summer craft activities. Home made biscuits and juice will be available for the children and delicious cakes for grown ups. Tickets cost just £2.50 per child and all proceeds from the day will go to the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital. Contact Bamboo Childcare on 0844 822 5727 or Glo Family on 0844 800 7380 for further information or to book. Places are limited so book early! www.glofamily.com
Jittabugs up for two awards TIMPERLEY mum, Karen Brownsell, who teaches sign language and sensory activities, and movement and dance classes to babies and toddlers as part of her Jittabugs franchise, has been nominated for two national awards only a year after establishing her business. Karen is in the running for ‘Best Local Activity for the Under 5s’, and ‘Most Outstanding Activity Leader for the Under 5s’ as part of the ‘What’s On 4 2011 Junior Awards’. The awards are bigger than ever this year, covering 18 different categories. A record 3,300 nominations have been received - over 33% more than in 2010 and so these nominations
11 Health Boost your family’s immunity and cranial osteopathy 13 Out & About What’s on in May & June
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02 May/June 2011 Families Manchester www.familiesmanchester.co.uk
are a great achievement. Karen said “When I started Jittabugs last year my intention was to establish a good name for myself and for Jittabugs, as well as – hopefully – to have people come to my classes as a result of recommendations from other parents. To be nominated for two national awards 12 months later is beyond anything I could have hoped for. I only hope that everyone who has been to my classes will now go online and vote for me!” To vote for Karen and Jittabugs visit: www.whatson4littleones. co.uk/awards-voting.asp, but hurry as voting closes on 6 May. For more information on Karen’s classes visit www.jittabugs.com
News & Views Are you a single dad? THE Kids and Me is a new adventure holiday company for single parent families, in particular single dads and their kids. From dog-sledding in the Arctic Circle to following war-time freedom trails across the Pyrenees, brand new holiday company The Kids and Me offers real-life adventures that will appeal to both dads and mums and their children. The Kids and Me focuses on a voyage of discovery together, leaving lasting memories that money just can’t buy. Founder Richard Gould, himself a single dad, launched The Kids and Me when he had to adapt from seeing his children every day to just in the holiday time and weekends – he wanted to make sure his time with the kids counted. “I have always loved the outdoors and, post divorce, found that doing activities together was a great way to connect with my children. You have a laugh whilst learning new skills and there is always something to talk about at the end of the day.” Choose from a Wilderness Experience in the Arctic Circle at Easter, an Alpine Challenge in the Alps in August or an Island Escape in Corfu in July, plus many more. The Kids and Me holidays are organised in small groups, staying in fully catered lodges where friendships will be made and sustained. “Both the parents and children on our holidays have a fantastic time,” says Richard. “The activities really build confidence in some of these children – it’s really touching to see first-hand. Dads can be dads and kids can be kids.” www.thekidsandme.co.uk
Tennis Tykes have arrived in Manchester WITH nominations in the bag for the “What’s On for Little Ones” awards, Tennis Tykes is already proving popular in the Yorkshire area. The Families team attended a Tennis Tykes class (for under 5s) in Bramhall and met Caroline Buncall to discover more about the classes which from May will be rolled out across South Manchester and Cheshire. Caroline starts off with a fun warm up and then there are lots of co-ordination activities and opportunities for the children to practise their counting and colour recognition skills. Caroline explains “There is a fun, play based but educational approach to the classes, and we teach and develop, agility, balance and co-ordination through the sport of tennis. Scientists have also shown it to be the best first sport in ensuring great physical, emotional and mental well being.” The nets then come out and each child hits the ball with the racket over the net. With maximum numbers of eight in a class it means that there is plenty of one-to-one attention from Caroline and at the same time, parents join in so they can also share in the thrill of their child’s achievements. Every child gets a Tommy or
Tessa Tyke sticker for their achievement book and it’s clear they’ve had a great time. For further information on the Tennis Tykes term time and holiday class programme and to book your FREE TASTER CLASS at one of the venues across South Manchester or Cheshire, please contact Caroline Buncall on
07843 342662, email caroline.buncall@tennistykes.co.uk or visit www.tennistykes.co.uk
Great holiday deals, recommended by other families FANCY a last minute holiday or one at a reduced rate in France, UK, Ireland, Cyprus or even Morocco? Then why not visit RecommendedFamilyHolidays.com - the place to find independent self-catering family-friendly holiday accommodation that is recommended by other mums and dads. Summer school holiday availability is filling up fast so if you are able to go outside of this period, availability tends to be very good and there are already some great offers around. For example, 20-25% off on some French properties before the end of May, 10% discount on peak summer availability in a catered villa in South West France, 5% discount for 14 day bookings in Devon and free Sundays on some weekend stays. For their full selection visit www.RecommendedFamilyHolidays.com
Teaching tennis to little ones from 2 years A fun and educational tennis play and skills programme Classes across South Manchester and Cheshire For information call Caroline Buncall on 07843 342 662 • www.tennistykes.co.uk
May/June 2011 Families Manchester www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 03
News & Views Buddies on the net A NEW online resource has been set up for parents of special needs children: www.Netbuddy.org.uk provides hundreds of practical tips and simple yet ingenious solutions to everyday issues encountered by parents, carers, teachers and therapists working with learning disability. From brushing teeth to managing challenging behaviour, Netbuddy lists over 850 practical tips and suggestions from people with first-hand experience of special needs, with the tip count growing daily as more people contribute. “The idea for Netbuddy came about when my son was small,” says Deborah Gundle, director of www.netbuddy.org.uk and mother of a son with profound learning disabilities. “I spent so much time and energy solving dayto-day problems which I felt sure other people had overcome before me. Then one day it came to me – I should start writing down my ideas for other people to use, and encourage them to share their own.” The tips on the site are organised into easy-to-find sections – from everyday stuff such as sleeping and eating, to health and hygiene, managing behaviour and tips with help and support. “People can come to Netbuddy for practical suggestions, they can talk to other people on the interactive forum and they can share their own ‘eureka moments’ within a community that understands and appreciates the hard work that has gone into those successes.” Get a tip, share a tip, swap ideas on the forum and join a friendly learning disability community at www.Netbuddy.org.uk.
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Manchester
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Super Camps come to Manchester
I
F you’re like most parents, you’ll have a job on your hands this summer juggling your childcare arrangements for the long summer holiday. You’ll be pleased to know there’s a new summer camp in town which can help ease the stress! Super Camps have been running MultiActivity Camps for children aged 4-14 for 14 years and they are coming to Manchester for the first time this summer! They’ll be running their exciting programme at William Hulme’s Grammar School, 25th July – 19th August 2011. The school offers excellent facilities including playing fields, large gym and an Astroturf pitch which they’ll be taking full advantage of, and it’s conveniently located just off Princess Road, not far from the M60. Their Multi-Activity Camps for children aged 4-14 combine over 40 sports, arts and crafts into an action-packed timetable of eight sessions per day! Activities range from aqua slide and dodgeball to clay modelling and friendship bracelets and they’ve got a new art programme coming for 2011 – there’s an abundance of variety to suit all ages and interests! Super Camps offer free extended hours (8am – 6pm) and are Ofsted registered so are able to accept childcare vouchers. Multi-Activity Camps can be booked by the day or by the week and all staff are CRB-cleared, reference-checked and trained in-house. Prices go from £32 per day and £144 per week – book by 27th May 2011 to receive a discount of £10 per child per week off the standard rate. Check out their website www.supercamps.co.uk or call 01235 832222 for full details or to make your booking.
WIN the new River Cottage Baby & Toddler Cookbook AS a bit of a Hugh F-W fan, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this new book to add to my growing collection of River Cottage cookbooks. Don’t be put off by the title, as even though there is a very comprehensive section on first foods for babies, including nutrition, allergies, baby-led weaning and purée recipes, this really is a family cookbook. Author Nikki Duffy’s main aim is to get the whole family to eat together, so each recipe has been carefully thought out to appeal to both young and old and has guidelines on how to serve it ‘for babies’ and ‘for grown-ups and older children’. For us grow-your-owners and those who like to buy seasonal produce, the recipes are very handily split into the seasons. There is also a really useful section on storing and preserving fruit and veg, including what to do if you’ve got a glut of something – brilliant! We’ve got three copies of the River Cottage Baby & Toddler Cookbook to give away, for your chance to win a copy, enter online at www.familiesmanchester.co.uk/competitions by 30 June 2011.
S J Sheldon
Accountancy Services & Business Consultancy
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04 May/June 2011 Families Manchester www.familiesmanchester.co.uk
call Simon on 07534 387 154 email simon@sjsheldon.co.uk
Wildlife RSPB Wildlife Action Awards THE RSPB Wildlife Action Award scheme is designed to help children, families and groups discover wildlife and do practical things to conserve it. From pond dipping and birdwatching to making homes for mini-beasts and planting trees, there are plenty of activities to inspire young people as they work their way towards the bronze, silver and gold awards. The scheme is open to anyone. Children can do it on their own, as a family, if they are home educated or belong to a community group. The flexibility of the scheme has meant that Guide and Scout groups have been able to fit many of the tasks into their various badge activities. Connor White, aged 5, achieved a gold award by taking part with his family. Connor said: “I really enjoyed feeding the birds, digging in the garden and drawing things from nature. I also liked recycling things at the bottle bank. I like hearing the bottles break and it is better to take all the tins and glass to a safe place so it does not hurt the animals and the world.” George Osgerby, aged 12 also earned a gold award. George is home educated and since getting involved in the scheme has created a wildlife pond, amended his family’s shopping habits, and drawn up a guide to wildflowers. Mum Leanne said: “I was attracted to the educational aspects of the scheme. It fitted very well with the way we do things. There isn’t a specific curriculum we work to, we tend to do lots of bite size projects and treated the award scheme in this way. George was attracted to the scheme because he receives certificates and stickers, things his friends get all the time at school.”
identify them and a really good way to catch minibeasts without harming them is to make a pitfall trap, which is a container set into the ground to catch minibeasts that creep along.
How do I make a pitfall trap?
You can also get your children’s school involved. In 2008, the Department for Children, Schools and Families acknowledged that these awards support ‘Sustainable Schools’.
Be a bug hunter
There are currently over 6,000 young people working their way through the scheme. There are 33 activities to choose from including feeding birds, being environmentally friendly and writing to an MP. One activity you can take part in is to get up close to minibeasts and discover what crawls, slithers, creeps and scuttles in your garden or school grounds. One of the best things about minibeasts is that they are everywhere and you can easily make your garden a great place for them. If you don’t have easy access to a garden or school grounds, you can visit your local park, nature reserve or woodland. Finding and catching minibeasts is the best way for you to get close to look at them and
Here are just a few suggestions on how to encourage minibeasts: • Leave a long patch of grass, ideally in a sunny spot – good for butterflies, grasshoppers and crickets. • Pile up leaves in a shady corner of the
garden – good for worms, woodlice and slugs. • Bind twigs together tightly with string and wedge it in a fork in a tree, or place it on the ground in an out-of-the-way spot – good for
Choose a site for your pitfall trap – try somewhere with plenty of plants, under a hedge or tree or in a flowerbed are good places. Dig a hole the size of a margarine tub. Remove the lid of the tub and put the empty pot into the hole so that its rim is level with the ground. Place some banana in the tub to attract the minibeasts. Leave the pitfall trap overnight and check in the morning what creatures have been caught. You could put your catches into a pot or jar so you can have a closer look at them. Don’t forget to release any creatures once you have identified them. Only put a pitfall trap out on a dry night because minibeasts will drown if the trap fills with rainwater.
How do I get involved?
If you would like to find out about all the activities you can do, and how to take part in the awards, you can send off for a Wildlife action awards booklet. The booklet costs £3 and has all the information you need to achieve the awards. Every child that takes part receives a special certificate and stickers. Send your name and address, and a cheque for £3 to: RSPB Wildlife Explorers, The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire, SG19 2DL. Cheques should be made payable to RSPB. Or visit www.rspb.org.uk/youth ladybirds and other beetles. • Plant nectar-rich flowers like honeysuckle, lavender and marigolds – good for small tortoiseshells, hoverflies and honey bees.
May/June 2011 Families Manchester www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 05
Save the Planet Image courtesy of JSC Installations
Let the sun pay your electricity bills Since April 2010 a government scheme to encourage solar panel installation means that families can actually make money from producing electricity from solar panels SOLAR panels have been popping up on UK roofs for the last 30 years. Environmentally conscious people, aware of the need to stop using fossil fuels (ie coal & gas), have been keen to use this free, alternative source of electricity. There have even been grants to cover a portion of the installation costs. The phrase ‘microgeneration of electricity’ refers to electricity produced on your own roof top. The good news is that for every unit of electricity you make from your solar panels, the government will currently pay you 43.3p. What’s more, this is paid to you even when you use the electricity at home! The introduction of the ‘feed-in tariff’ in April 2010 has made this green technology a profitable investment. This unit rate of 43.3p will be paid for a guaranteed period of twenty-five years from installation and is index-linked to inflation. But these rates won’t last for ever: they are due to fall for installations completed after March 2012.
Cost and benefits
An average household typically uses about 3,300 kWh (units) a year. At 13p per unit this costs £429. A typical installation for a family house costs around £9,000 and will
provide approximately 2,000 units (or kWh) of electricity each year, giving you an income of over £800 plus about £200 savings on your electricity bill. Larger systems provide even greater returns due to the efficiencies of scale. The feed-in tariff is a tax-free payment. Furthermore the value of the property is likely to increase because of the built-in income stream.
How do I find a good supplier? The best way to find a reliable company to install your panels is by visiting the website of the organisation that certifies microgeneration suppliers at www.microgenerationcertification.org and click on the ‘Consumer’ button. Put in your postcode to find your local companies. All these certified companies can use the initials MCS after their name.
What happens next?
An initial meeting normally takes about one hour to discuss all the homeowner’s queries and to measure and assess the intended location for the panels. From the quotation to the installation can be as little as three weeks. The installation process is relatively simple, with the majority of the work being done on the roof and in the loft space. A team of
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specialist engineers can complete a typical installation in one day. One cable is run from the ‘inverter’ (which converts the electricity to the normal domestic supply of 230v) in the loft to the main consumer unit (fuse box) within the property.
Solar myth busters
• Solar panels do not require a due south facing roof to generate power. A west-facing roof can generate 80% of the power of a due south-facing roof (also see Editor’s investigation opposite). • The panels will generate power all year-round, including overcast winter days. Obviously the system will be most productive during periods of bright sunshine. • The installation of a roof-mounted photovoltaic system does not normally require planning permission for domestic properties. The exceptions to this are for listed properties, national parks, etc. Landlords can receive the feed-in tariff from installations on rental properties. If you are considering the installation of solar panels, it would be wise to look for a company that is registered on the MCS scheme and with REAL (for added customer support). These registers have been set up to maintain consistency and quality in this growing industry.
Agatha Ruiz de la Prada Hush Puppies Naturino Garvalin Pediped Richter Replay GBB Mini A Ture Little Legends Freoli Oli Dandy DoDo
06 May/June 2011 Families Manchester www.familiesmanchester.co.uk
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Save the Planet The editor investigates further By Helen Ash
W
E seriously looked into installing photovoltaic (PV) panels on our roof a few years ago, but came to the conclusion that it wouldn’t be cost effective enough for us, even though there were then grants available to cover up to 50% of the cost. We were also told that ideally we needed to have a south facing roof and that our east/west facing one wouldn’t receive enough sunlight. However, on reading this article, I decided to look into it again. I did a search on the MCS website (details opposite) for local suppliers and was amazed at how many there were in Greater Manchester. There was even one a few streets away (in Heaton Moor, Stockport) and so I arranged for Martin Harney from Mitre Solar Technologies to come round the very next day. Martin took a few measurements, including the size and pitch of the roof (apparently PV panels on our east/west facing roof would operate at 86% efficiency). He then fed it all into his spreadsheet and gave me an instant estimate, detailing the initial outlay and then the money we would earn from the government feed-in tariff and from selling electricity not used back to our provider. This worked out at around £9,000 for the installation, from which we would get a guaranteed income of around £1,000 per year for the next 25 years (£900 from the feed-in tariff and £100 from electricity exported and fuel savings). So we would have recouped the initial
investment after nine years. This seemed a bit of a no-brainer! However, Martin was very honest and said it was only really worth doing if you are actually at home, using a reasonable amount of electricity during the day and by this he means any electrical appliance that heats – washing machine, dishwasher etc – as these use up the most electricity. If you aren’t at home during daylight hours, then you would effectively be wasting all the electricity you were generating, as even though this gets sold back to your energy supplier, the amount you get for it is fairly negligible. You also have to remember that you can’t store the electricity you generate, so you would still have to pay a supplier for all the electricity you use at night. Having said that, unless your monthly electricity bill currently exceeds £75 (based on the average household figures above), you would still be making a profit from the feed-in tariff and selling your electricity for the next 25 years. It IS a no-brainer! With all this considered we are almost definitely going to go ahead with this, as I am at home during the day and can make sure all the washing etc is done then (no more putting the dishwasher on just before we go to bed). We also have underfloor heating in the kitchen and a wood burning stove in the lounge, meaning that even during the winter we could almost be a carbon neutral household during daylight hours (as long as the sun shines a bit!). Martin also mentioned that he is going to put a real-time link from his home PV panel monitor to
his website, so you can see how much electricity his PV panels are generating at that precise moment. He plans to have this up and running by the beginning of May. To chat to Martin or to arrange a visit call Mitre Solar Technologies on 07970 151781 or visit www.mitresolartech.co.uk
Another very helpful supplier whom I chatted to was John Curry from JSC Istallations, based in Eccles. They’ve done numerous installations in the area and have detailed case studies on their website (see photos above for examples). Call John on 0161 211 9842 or 07830 229 503 or visit www.solarmanchester.co.uk
May/June 2011 Families Manchester www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 07
Parties Bright ideas for birthdays DID SOMEONE SAY PARTY? Yes, I’m afraid so. One thing’s as sure as eggs is eggs - your child WILL have another birthday in the next year. It’s Families to the rescue - we’ve put on our party hats to find the best suppliers around to ensure your ‘do’ is one they’ll talk about, until at least next year... by Robina Cowan
Try these:
Planning your party Crowd control: entertainers
Bubbles, puppets, drama, music, ‘make’ party or magician? A good entertainer will bring your party to life and keep the children enthralled while you enjoy the fun from a safe distance. While there are parents who think nothing of timetabling two hours of games, entertaining Other People’s Children is not a breeze, which is where expert help is well worth the investment. TIP: Children’s entertainers generally have vast experience and contacts which you can tap into. Ask them about local venues for hire, a realistic timetable and suitable prizes as well as the entertainment itself. Find out their preferred age group, and the maximum number of children they will cope with - too many and you’ll not get the best out of them. Write down everything you’ve agreed together so there is no doubt on the day.
STAGECOACH PARTIES combine drama, dance and singing with a wide range of games, storytelling and performance techniques all based around a chosen theme. Party Hosts arrive in colourful, themed costumes, loaded with props, balloons, stickers and prizes. During the last 10 minutes of the party, family and friends are invited to watch some of the activities the children have enjoyed during the party. There is a break during the party for parents to provide food, drink and birthday cake! You choose the date, time and the place and they will come to you either at your home, or a hired venue. Contact Stagecoach Salford and Didsbury 0161 789 1349 www.stagecoach.co.uk
PARTY PRINCESS UK presents the very best in Makeover Parties. Their team of friendly reliable staff - including professional Hairdressers, Beauticians, Facepainters and Entertainers provide Makeover parties for all ages and they love to party! Choose from the new Fun Face Painting, Wild Tattoo Parties, Craft Parties or Bouncy Castle Parties. Or themed parties; Glee, Pink Parties or Model Parties, Pop Star, Fairy, Frog and the Princess, Pirates & Princesses party – you can even have Snow White, Cinderella or Princess Bella come to see you on your Birthday. You choose the venue, they’ll do the planning - included are free invitations, free party bags, games with spot prizes, music, entertainment, and a special gift for the Birthday Girl or Boy. For Glitz and Glamour contact Party Princess UK on 0845 241 7855, www.party-princess.co.uk
JABBERJACKS unique parties promise a special children’s party experience. They have been entertaining children for over 10 years, with activities through pre-school classes, together with party entertainment for youngsters aged 2 - 7 years. They’ll take the stress away from parents and offer lots of different activities to keep the children’s interest throughout. Playmates Parties are for 2 to 4 year olds and include puppets, bubbles, teddies, games and activities, all hidden in a magic box. The arrival of JoJo with all his friends and a party gift is always a big hit with the children. Juniors parties are for 5 to 7 year olds and are fast paced, energetic with exciting games revealed from the magic box, crazy dancing to the latest hits and much, much more, they even get to chose their own prizes! Visit www.jabberjacks.co.uk for all your local contact details. JO JINGLES Make your child’s party truly memorable by inviting Jo Jingles. Your child can choose their favourite songs and instruments and Jo Jingles can even make the programme around a theme. Each party lasts approximately 1 hour in which time your child and their friends will have fun with percussion instruments, singing and movement and can enjoy a number of props such as streamers, beanbags, bubbles, balls and the very popular parachute! The Birthday child will receive a Jo Jingles CD, and stickers for all children will be provided. Invitations are also included in the price. South Manchester: Jacqui Lamb 01925 269136 or 07762 336012 www.jojingles.com/southmanchester North East Cheshire: Laura Bailey 0161 431 0674 www.north-east-cheshire.jojingles.com
Pottery Painting Studio
Brookside Pottery
Birthday Pottery Parties Free train ride with every party
Make a unique Father’s Day gift Open every weekend and school holidays
All ages welcome Brookside Garden Centre, Macclesfield Rd, Poynton, Cheshire SK12 1BY Mob: 07961 838753 or 07946 637499
www.brooksidepottery.com
08 May/June 2011 Families Manchester www.familiesmanchester.co.uk
Parties HAPPY MAKERS arty parties are tailored to a theme chosen by your budding artist. They provide the materials and prepare three different activities for the party guests to make and take home. Two qualified teachers guide the Happy Makers through their activities. Once the making is complete, fun party games occupy the children while the tidying up gets done for you. From ‘Outer Space’ to ‘Pop Star’ themes, they develop your ideas for a top party either at home or in your choice of venue. Party bags and invitations are also available. They also run great arty sessions in South Manchester in term times for 1 – 5 year olds. Call Vicky 07775 884 275 or email hello@happymakers.co.uk www.happymakers.co.uk
ENJOY-A-BALL If your child is full of beans, then let them run off their energy with an Enjoy-a-Ball party! The parties are packed with fun and games with plenty of action in a warm, positive and fun-filled environment. One happy customer said, “My six year old had an Enjoy-a-Ball party with over 20 energetic friends. They had a great time and loved the exciting games. Party food was quickly eaten as they wanted to go and play again. I would definitely recommend an Enjoy-a-Ball party - I’m sure we’ll be booking another one next year!’ Call Sam 07973 886 786 or email sam.hinckley@enjoy-a-ball.com, www.enjoy-a-ball.com THE WILD ROADSHOW At a Wild Roadshow party, children aged 3 and over get to look at and handle an array of live animals from Sally the giant snail to Holly the hedgehog, whilst learning all about their natural
habitats, diets and other interesting facts. The birthday boy or girl will be presented with their very own laminated certificate and stickers are given out to all children as a memento of their experience. Included in the price are professionally designed invitations to send out to your guests. 0161 283 2630, www.thewildroadshow.co.uk
Take them out: venues
It might feel less imaginative than an organised bunfight at yours, but do you really have the time, energy and creativity to decorate your house as a fairy or superhero den, then clear it all up four hours later? Thought not. Happily there are plenty of places where all you have to do is pay the per-head charge and the guests will be entertained and fed, leaving you to return to your quiet, tidy house afterwards. Try child-friendly restaurants, bowling alleys, go-karting, indoor playcentres, sports clubs, the zoo, a pottery painting studio or cinema. TIP: Book well ahead. There are only so many party groups venues can accommodate at any given time - you don’t want to be scratching around at the last minute and end up having to book ‘second best’. Try these:
Pictured above: Brookside Pottery Pictured below: One of Glo Family’s party rooms
GLO FAMILY offers a full children’s party service at their beautifully renovated church in Cheadle. With its own gorgeous gardens, homemade food and a range of imaginative entertainment options, your party will really stand out from the crowd. They can accommodate small or large events; - you could even hire the whole venue and enjoy the use of the whole centre and its lovely outside space. On offer is a completely free party planning service from Pink Spaghetti PA Services which will ensure your celebration goes smoothly. All you need to do is turn up and they’ll make your party really special. 0844 504 7465, parties@glofamily.com, www.glofamily.com
BROOKSIDE POTTERY provide activities for all age groups and arrange special occasion parties at the new look Brookside Garden Centre, Poynton. One of the options is a 2 hour party starting with the much talked about ‘Potter’s wheel Experience’. Each child makes a pot on the potter’s wheel and leaves it to be fired in the kiln whilst painting another item which can be taken home on the day or left to be glazed. There’s a free ride for all participating children on Brookside’s famous miniature railway while Liz and Dave put out the party food you’ve provided. Renowned for their relaxed approach and with 15 years of experience they’ll make your party a totally memorable event. Call Liz 07946637499 or Dave 07961838753, www.brooksidepottery.com
For details on classes in: Timperley, Didsbury, Lymm, Heaton Moor, Heaton Mersey, Reddish & Hale Barns Call Jacqui on 01925 269136 jacquelinelamb_1@hotmail.com
Bramhall, Glossop, Hyde, Wilmslow, Marple, Mossley, Cheadle & Stalybridge Call Laura on 0161 431 0674 laurajingles@hotmail.com
May/June 2011 Families Manchester www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 09
Parties LAND OF PLAY in Trafford Park will take care of all your party needs! From invitations to healthy home-made food, a party host and goody bags, they aim to take the stress out of planning your child’s party. With 45 minutes play on their three-storey play frame with its four-lane slide and a completely separate toddlers play area, all ages and requirements are catered for. They do toddlers parties for 10, or you can even exclusively hire the whole centre for £100! 0161 872 9434 or check out the website for packages and extras on offer www.landofplay.co.uk/parties
Or how about:
ZOOM in Stockport offers parties designed to make sure your child’s day is a special and memorable occasion. So while the kids discover the challenging play frame (or free fall slide for thrill seekers), parents can sit back, relax and enjoy the experience as well. All Parties include party bags, food, squash, party host, party games, a reserved table for grown ups and a parade. They also offer luxury party bags and can even sort the cake out for you. 0161 477 2225, www.zoomplaycentre.co.uk
Silver Blades, Altrincham (ice skating) 08700 852929, www.altrinchamicedome.co.uk
More Playcentres: Curly Whirleez, Bolton 01204 523620, www.curlywhirleez.co.uk
Airkix, Trafford (indoor skydiving) 0845 331 6549, www.airkix.com Chill Factore, Trafford (skiing, snowboarding and luging) 0161 749 2222, www.chillfactore.com Awesome Walls, Stockport (rock climbing) 0161 494 9949, www.awesomewalls.co.uk
Themed parties
A great idea when your child has a particular interest, themes can be explored in many different ways. How about a drama, musical, circus or magic party, a sports party; or get crafty making bags, jewellery or cookies, or print t-shirts to match the theme. TIP: Take the theme throughout the party - print off related pictures from the web as wall decorations, ask the guests to dress up with a prize for the best home-made hat.
Party Gifts & Supplies
Mischief Makers, Rochdale 01706 653 656, www.mischiefmakersltd.co.uk Anchors Away, Reddish 0161 432 4020, www.anchorsaway.org.uk Kiddie Chaos, Denton 0161 320 7774, www.kiddie-chaos.co.uk Run of the Mill, Stockport 0161 494 7137, www.runofthemill.co.uk Head over Heels, Chorlton & Handforth 0161 881 4433, www.headoverheelsplay.co.uk Antz in your Pantz, Timperley 0161 962 2266, www.antzinyourpantz.co.uk Anchors Away Play, Wythenshawe 0161 437 0665, www.anchorsawayplay.com
MONKEY PUZZLE TOYS is a traditional toy shop with quality, quirkiness and fun. With many regular customers and never ending kids’ parties they have increased their range of £5 to £10 toys and gifts for toddlers to teens as well as a new party list and gift wrap service. Offering quality brands you won’t see on the high street there is no fear of duplication. For your own child they have a choice of Maxi and Micro Scooters, Balance Bikes, Dolls Houses and fantastic Castles. You can browse or buy on the website and they deliver UK wide. 93 Manchester Rd, Chorlton, 0161 862 0100, www.monkeypuzzletoys.com GIFTED ORIGINALS is a unique toyshop specialising in traditional toys, educational toys and wooden toys carefully selected to inspire and delight children of all ages. They offer great advice on choosing presents as well as a large range of kids party food boxes in a variety of themes from pirates, farm, football to fairies and many others. They also do party tableware, loot bags, party bags and loads of pocket money toys. If you’re stuck for ideas check out their website or drop into their Burnage shop at 12 Lane End Road, Burnage (next to Tesco), 0161 637 2257, www.giftedoriginals.co.uk THE LITTLE THINGS love the little things that make parties special. Choose from their range of children’s party bags and fill them with your choice of party bag fillers or save time and money with their luxury filled party bags. And don’t forget to visit their little sweet shop. They also have party decorations, tableware and stationery and if you prefer a theme for your child’s party, they do that too. 01424 870398, www.lovethelittlethings.co.uk
10 May/June 2011 Families Manchester www.familiesmanchester.co.uk
Image courtesy of James Broome Photography, www.jamesbroomephotography.com
High Adrenalin! Review by Louise Bennett, Editor, Families Pennines DAYTONA MANCHESTER INDOOR KARTING CENTRE hosted my son’s best ever party last year (and he’s had some good ones). Ten 8 year olds had the greatest time as they drove around the indoor karting circuit at speeds over 25 km/hour – with the girls just as competitive and grinning as broadly as the boys. From the moment they sat down and gave their undivided attention to Formula 1 commentator Martin Brundell’s instruction and safety film you could tell they knew they were in for a real treat. With suits, helmets and neck supports all provided and in place they went out five at a time under the expert marshalling of the Daytona team. Parents on the observation balcony found any jitters dispelled as they cheered on their offspring. As helmets came off, the Cheshire cat would have been proud of the grins – the only disappointment was that the half-hour on the track had come to an end. A party tea in the sound-proofed lounge area followed and as each party-goer received their individual Lap Time Analysis sheet they were eager to see how fast they’d made it round the track. Words like “awesome” were overheard as people drifted off towards the car park. It’s not a cheap party – but Daytona do this well and safety is central to their approach. For Bambino drivers (5-7 years) a 4 driver party is £102; 8 drivers £200. For Junior Novices (8-15 years) 5 drivers £190; 10 drivers £345. 0845 644 5505, www.daytona.co.uk
WIN a drive at Daytona Manchester Families Manchester has two Junior Arrive & Drive vouchers for you to win worth £25 each. Valid for either a Junior arrive & drive session (8-15 year olds) or an introductory Bambino module (5-7 year olds) at Daytona Manchester’s indoor karting track. Enter online at: www.familiesmanchester.co.uk/competitions by 30 June 2011.
Health Natural ways to strengthen the immune system By Penny Crowther, nutritionist MOST people know that the immune system defends the body against infections, viruses, cancer cells, fungi and other parasites. What is less realised is that an unhealthy immune system speeds up the ageing process and is a major factor in fatigue, chronic inflammation (eg asthma, eczema, rheumatoid arthritis) and allergies. A well functioning immune system is vitally important for overall health. As we emerge from winter into spring, the seasonal change can often bring an increased vulnerability to infections and illness. I talked to experienced complementary health practitioners with an integrated approach to health and in this article they share their knowledge with you on helping to strengthen the immune system.
Boost your defences
Modern medicine is based on the theory that germs cause illness. But there are a significant number of experts, scientists amongst them, who believe that germs are not the primary cause of illness. If this were true, how can we explain the fact that out of three people exposed to a respiratory germ, only one will get pneumonia, the second person will get minor cold symptoms whilst the third person remains unaffected? This is because whether or not the germ becomes disease causing is dependent on your internal body environment. Even Louis Pasteur, the
father of the germ theory, recognised this when he said “The germ is nothing, the terrain everything”. There is much you can do to improve the “terrain” and strengthen resistance. Two key areas to focus on are stimulating the flow of lymph and reducing the effects of stress. The lymphatic system transports the army of immune cells and acts as a drainage channel for wastes and toxins. Lymph nodes are concentrated in the neck, chest and groin and when there is a lot of immune activity going on, these areas will swell. The thymus gland (at the top of the breast bone), spleen and tonsils are important lymph organs. Many people (mistakenly!) do not think of osteopathy in relation to immune health. Osteopath Adam Beaumont explains the benefits of working on the chest area. “If the ribs are tense or restricted in movement, this affects the efficient working of the thymus gland and reduces the number of circulating immune cells to deal with the infection. The diaphragm is another key area to focus on in relation to immunity. Lymph flows through a major channel which is affected by the movement of the diaphragm. A tense diaphragm will slow the flow of lymph. Osteopathy will help loosen the muscles of the diaphragm and those between the ribs”. Unlike the blood circulation which is constantly activated by the heart, the lymph has no pump. Lymph is dependent on physical movement for its flow. Treatments such as massage and reflexology are very helpful to stimulate the flow of lymph and the blood circulation. Reflexologist Sara Wood explains “My focus is to help balance and support the vitality of the the lymphatic system, working
the lymph, the spleen and the thyroid by applying pressure to specific reflex points in the foot which connect to these organs. A lymphatic massage technique that reflects the movement of the lymph through the body can also be applied as well as working on the organs of elimination such as the kidneys, liver, colon and skin through the reflexes. This helps the body clear itself of toxins and waste, allowing the immune system to work better. Massage therapist Clare Williams says “Massage increases the activity of white blood cells that target and destroy infectious agents and in immune deficiency it increases antibody production. With regular massage, the immune system is strengthened and it becomes more robust.” In our 24 hour society it is hard to escape stress of one kind or another. Under immediate stress, such as, for example, having a row with your partner or children, the adrenal glands pump out adrenaline which prepares the body for what is in effect a “state of emergency”. Various physiological changes take place including increased heart rate and blood pressure. This is known as the “fight or flight” response and if it is constantly stimulated, it has a “wear and tear” effect on the immune system. With more prolonged stress, levels of cortisol start to rise which not only weakens the immune system but affects sleep and weight and contributes to bone loss and hormonal imbalance. The field of psychoneuroimmunology is revealing links between the mind and the
Continued on page 12
Children’s Indoor Play Centre
• • • •
electric go karts home cooked food winter heating excellent party options available
Open:
Mon-Fri 9:30am-7pm Sat & Sun 9:30am-6pm
Offer:
Weekly Activities: Toddler Mornings - Wed & Thur 10-11:30 am Baby Boppers - Mondays 1:45-2:30pm
Please bring this coupon for 1 FREE child’s ENTRY (Mon-Fri term time only)
1 minute from the Trafford Centre
0161 872 9434
www.landofplay.co.uk May/June 2011 Families Manchester www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 11
Health Out & About Continued from page 11
immune system. Worry, anxiety and negative thoughts will trigger a stress response in the same way as an actual threat. Anxiety has been shown to increase susceptibility to viral infection. Anxious people exposed to stress showed increases in infection rates from 74% to 90%, and clinical colds rose from 27% to 47%. Regular, deep relaxation is known to boost immunity. Hypnotherapist Diana Penny says “One of the most effective ways is a deep hypnotic relaxation, particularly when specifically designed to strengthen the individual’s immune function. As well as training the body to relax and restore, hypnosis also promotes a positive mental attitude and an optimistic attitude. This in turn impacts how the body fights disease.” Massage and reflexology also help calm the nervous system. During a treatment the Reflexologist stimulates more than 7,000 nerves when touching the feet. A recent study concluded that after receiving reflexology, healthy people experienced a significant decrease in anxiety, tension and worry and an increase in wellbeing. Experienced acupuncturist Julia Davis has a
keen interest in the immune system and the way stress affects our health. “Acupuncture works to restore and maintain balance in body and mind. Acupuncture can stimulate the body by treating the spleen, kidney, liver and lung channels. When balance is achieved, a person has a greater opportunity to resist illness and maintain good health”. Julia has worked with acupuncture in the NHS and private practice and uses a special no needle technique for babies and children. Homeopathy treats each individual according to his or her own pattern of symptoms. A specific remedy is applied, taking into account how the person is affected in both mind and body functions. A good homeopath will get to the root cause of the symptoms, for the particular person. A homeopath with 15 years experience, Ilana Dannheisser explains “By tapping into the specific nature, the person’s vitality increases so he or she is more able to fight off infections and disease.” Finally, don’t forget the importance of good nutrition. Many people don’t realize that 70% of the immune system is in the gut which means that what you eat will have a
powerful impact. Healthy bowel movements are essential to avoid a breeding ground of unhealthy bacteria caused by waste backing up in the intestine. Probiotics and fibre intake are important in this respect. Fibre should be the gentle soluble kind such as oats, brown rice, spelt rather than irritant wheat fibre. Too much sugar will help yeast organisms to flourish in the gut and it blocks the uptake of vitamin C, a key immune enhancing vitamin. As a nutritionist I would say make sure you are getting enough of the key immune nutrients that may be lacking in the average diet. Research has proved that deficiency of vitamin D, an important immune related vitamin is relatively common so make sure you eat oily fish, or take a supplement. Zinc is also vital, particularly for children and teenagers. The production and function of immune cells are dependent on adequate zinc levels and very recent research found that this mineral helped reduce the duration of a cold. Meat such as lamb and seafood are the richest sources. Lastly, check you are eating foods containing Omega 3 and 6 fats (oily fish, nuts and seeds). These fats are converted into substances which regulate immune function.
Osteopathy for Babies and Children DURING the birth process a baby is squeezed by contractions and has to perform several twists and turns. Luckily babies are designed to adapt to these forces in a process called “moulding”. However, births don’t always go to plan and Cranial Osteopaths believe that certain factors can increase these moulding forces on a baby’s head and body, including: • Slow labours - expose the baby’s body to prolonged moulding forces. • Fast labours - don’t allow the baby’s body enough time to gradually mould to the birth canal. • Malpositioning - If the baby isn’t in the correct position they need to attempt additional twists and turn more or they can become stuck. Ventouse, forceps or C sections may be required to ensure the safe delivery of the baby. Nature cleverly provides babies with a way to relieve these compressions and strains. However, if the stresses have been considerable this process may be incomplete. Parents of babies who have had difficult births sometimes report that their baby cries excessively, doesn’t seem to
12 May/June 2011 Families Manchester www.familiesmanchester.co.uk
be able to relax or seems to have digestive discomfort such as wind.
What is Cranial Osteopathy? Cranial osteopathy uses gentle and subtle pressures anywhere on the body to relieve such tensions and strains. They recognise the importance of subtle changes in body mechanics and their impact on how the body functions. As children grow, bumps, falls and growth spurts can cause further strains in the body. Gemma Irvine, BSc (Hons) Ost. Med. D.O.N.D. MSc Paediatric Osteopathy is registered with the General Osteopathic Council (www.osteopathy.org.uk) and has a Masters Degree in Paediatric Osteopathy - one of only a few Osteopaths in the North West qualified to this level. She trained at the Osteopathic Centre for Children and currently practices at Cheadle Osteopathy. For more info call 07921 066132 or email irvinegemma@yahoo.co.uk. Gemma can also help adults with back pain, muscular aches and pains, sciatica, sports injuries and much more, using soft tissue, mobilisation and cranial techniques.
Out and About See www.familiesmanchester.co.uk/whatson for regular weekly activities and even more events Tue 3 – Sun 8 May
DUNHAM MASSEY, ALTRINCHAM Bluebell Walks Enjoy the beautiful array of bluebells in the garden and wood 2 pm. £2, children free 0161 941 1025 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunhammassey
Thu 5 – Sat 7 May
THE LOWRY, QUAYS THEATRE Science Museum Live on Tour!
Sat 7 May
BURY ART GALLERY Design a Superhero Come and get creative 2 – 3.30 pm. Ages 4 – 12 years No need to book, but places are limited £2 per child 0161 253 5878 www.bury.gov.uk/events HOLLINGWORTH LAKE, ROCHDALE Spring Clean Enjoy a pleasant walk and give the lake a spring clean with the rangers. Equipment provided 1.30 – 3.30 pm 01706 373421 www.rochdale.gov.uk/events MANCHESTER ART GALLERY Family Art Club Spend quality time together and learn new art skills. Ages 6 – 11. 1 – 3 pm 0161 235 8888 www.manchestergalleries.org
Explosive entertainment for all the family as London’s world-famous Science Museum takes to the stage for the first time ever with a fantastic live show! Ages 7+ Thu 7 pm, Fri 10.30 am & 7 pm Sat 11 am. £12.50 0843 208 6000 www.thelowry.com
Fri 6 May
THE LOWRY, LYRIC THEATRE The Shaolin Warriors
Starring 22 Kung Fu masters, this breathtaking, fully choreographed show features death-defying disciplines 7.30 pm. Children £10 & £11, adults £20 & £22 0843 208 6000 www.thelowry.com
Sat 7 – Sun 8 May
IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM NORTH, LEARNING STUDIO VE Day ‘Street Party’ Join the party-goers for the VE Day ‘Street Party’ celebrations with real archive film, music, party games, craft activities and sweet rationing! 1 – 4 pm 0161 836 4000 www.iwm.org.uk/north
THE MANCHESTER MUSEUM Big Saturday: Living Worlds Many activities to celebrate the connections between living things including getting your hands dirty in the allotment outside the Museum 11 am – 4 pm Most activities are free and drop-in, some may need booking on the day and may cost up to £1.50. All ages 0161 275 2648 www.manchester.ac.uk/museum
Sun 8 May
IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM NORTH Oskar’s Journey Cat puppet character Oskar’s tale of adventure as he journeys across the Berlin Wall is a fun session with puppets, multi sensory resources and a real piece of the wall Ages 4 – 10 11.30 am Meet underneath the Harrier Jump Jet 0161 836 4000 www.iwm.org.uk/north SALE Kids Car Boot and Swap Shop Sell or swap your unwanted toys, games and clothes in this special kids event, which also helps Barnardos. At Sale High School. 10 am – 12.30 pm (stallholders from 9 am) £10 per pitch. Entrance fee 50p (entitles unlimited swaps) 07748 601 248 www.kidscarbootandswapshop.co.uk
Fri 13 May
MANCHESTER ART GALLERY Mini Art Club Make friends, make noise and make a mess! Especially for 0 – 5s and their grown ups. 10.15 – 11.15 am & 11.30 – 12.30 pm Free Please book one week in advance 0161 235 8888 www.manchestergalleries.org
Sat 14 – Sun 15 May
DUNHAM MASSEY, ALTRINCHAM Myths and Legends at the Mill Storytelling at its best! 11 am – 3 pm 0161 941 1025 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunhammassey MANCHESTER ART GALLERY Imagine Weekends Experiment and play with the material of the month in these drop-in activities. 12 – 4 pm Free & drop in 0161 235 8888 www.manchestergalleries.org
Sat 14 May
BURY ART GALLERY Design your own propaganda poster (see Sat 7 May) HOLLINGWORTH LAKE VISITOR CENTRE, ROCHDALE Splash and Sizzle Join the Friends of Hollingworth Lake for this fun social family event. Take a dip in the pond, go on a minibeast hunt and enjoy a tasty sizzling BBQ 2 – 4 pm Adults £1, children free Booking essential Tickets available from the visitor centre or ring 01706 373 421 www.rochdale.gov.uk/events IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM NORTH What Nancy Did Next Meet charming character Nancy and hear her tales of life in the Land Army in the Second World War – especially with a quiet and timid horse called Rufus. Ages 4 – 10. 11.30 am Meet underneath the Harrier Jump Jet 0161 836 4000 www.iwm.org.uk/north IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM NORTH, LEARNING STUDIO VE Day ‘Street Party’ (see Sat 7 May) THE LOWRY, THE STUDIO Rip, Fold, Scrunch An enchanting combination of theatre, Kathak dance, live music and paper – plus make your own magical paper creations after the show! Ages 2 – 5. 12 pm & 3 pm Children £5.50, Adults £8.50 0843 208 6000 www.thelowry.com THE MANCHESTER MUSEUM Museums at Night The ghost of a man from the 1880s and the head of a young Egyptian prince etched in the dust are just a couple of the Museum’s ghostly sightings. Watch an after-hours family friendly film screening. 5 – 9 pm. Booking essential. £5 Email anna.bunney@manchester.ac.uk 0161 275 2648 www.manchester.ac.uk/museum
Sun 15 May
ALKRINGTON WOODS, LEVER BRIDGE Birds, Bluebells and Butterflies Take a walk in the woods and enjoy the sites and sounds of spring. 2 – 4 pm www.rochdale.gov.uk/events
IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM NORTH Oskar’s Journey (See Sun 8 May) ST MARY’S FLOWER PARK, PRESTWICH Prestwich Clough Day A day of country crafts, children’s activities, brass band, falconry, circus skills and refreshments 12 pm – 5 pm 0161 253 7667 www.bury.gov.uk/events
Tue 17 May
HEYWOOD CIVIC CENTRE Toy Fair 7 – 9 pm £1.50 Adults, £1.20 Concession & 1st child 01706 624 104 www.rochdale.gov.uk/events
Wed 18 May
LYME PARK, DISLEY Bluebell and Woodland Walks 10 am – 12 noon 01663 762 023 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lymepark
Fri 20 – Sun 22 May
TATTON PARK Foodies Festival Three day food extravaganza with top TV chefs, hands-on cooking and tasting, ‘Cooking for Kids’ classes for budding young chefs Tickets £10 (concessions £8, accompanied under 16s free), Car entry charge applies 0871 230 5573 www.foodiesfestival.com www.tattonpark.org.uk
Sat 21 May
BURY ART GALLERY Origami Letters (see Sat 7 May) IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM NORTH, LEARNING STUDIO The Adventures of Able Seaman Wally Tobin Family friendly storytelling session with craft activities looking at the link between a parrot, coconut and motorbike 1 – 4 pm 0161 836 4000 www.iwm.org.uk/north LYME PARK, DISLEY Bluebell and Woodland Walks (see Wed 18 May) THE LOWRY, THE STUDIO What Became of the Red Shoes? Little Pixie Productions present this imaginative one-woman show about a little girl and some rather special shoes which won Best Family Event at the Buxton Festival Fringe in 2009 Ages 3+. 12 pm & 2 pm Children £5.50, Adults £8.50 0843 208 6000 www.thelowry.com
May/June 2011 Families Manchester www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 13
Out and About See www.familiesmanchester.co.uk/whatson for regular weekly activities and even more events WATERSIDE ARTS CENTRE, SALE Stig of the Dump Image Musical Theatre brings a wonderful musical production with lots of opportunity for the audience to take part. Is ‘Stig’ real or is he the product of Barney’s boyhood imagination? Fun for the whole family Ages 5+. 2.30 pm. £6.50 & £4.50 0161 912 5616 www.watersideartscentre.co.uk WATERSIDE ARTS CENTRE, SALE Comedysportz Fast-paced improv comedy show with quick witted sketches, scenes and songs from whatever suggestions are thrown at them by the audience. Ages 8+. 6.30 pm. £6 / £4 0161 912 5616 www.watersideartscentre.co.uk
Sun 22 May
IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM NORTH Oskar’s Journey (See Sun 8 May)
Tue 24 May
LYME PARK, DISLEY Bluebell and Woodland Walks (see Wed 18 May)
Sat 28 May
LYME PARK, DISLEY Bluebell and Woodland Walks (see Wed 18 May)
Sat 28 May – Sat 4 June
TOUCHSTONES ROCHDALE Summer Half-Term Quiz Drop in during normal opening hours to stop those brain cells going rusty. No bookings required. 10 am – 5 pm 01706 924 492
Sun 29 May
IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM NORTH Oskar’s Journey (See Sun 8 May) THE LOWRY, THE STUDIO The Chalk Giants Norwich Puppet Theatre Featuring show and rod puppetry, live music and a toy theatre, the classic tale of Jack and the Beanstalk is given a unique twist. Ages 5+. 12 pm & 2 pm Children £5.50, Adults £8.50 0843 208 6000 www.thelowry.com
Sun 29 – Mon 30 May
TATTON PARK American Civil War at the Old Hall
Fri 27 May
THE MANCHESTER MUSEUM Magic Carpet: Living Worlds Storytelling and activity session for under 5s. Book from 20 May, £1 per child 0161 275 2648 www.manchester.ac.uk/museum
Sat 28 May
BURY ART GALLERY Stamp Designs (see Sat 7 May) GIFTED ORIGINALS TOY SHOP, BURNAGE Magical Mother Hen Tail Trail Prepare to be whizzed away on a colourful interactive, fun-packed story-telling adventure. 11.30am and 3pm Suitable for ages 3-8, Free (parental supervision required). Limited places. Booking advisable. Duration approx. 45 mins 0161 637 2257 or call in at the shop. 12 Lane End Road, Burnage.
Sat 28 – Mon 30 May
EAST LANCASHIRE RAILWAY 1940s Wartime Weekend Award winning wartime weekend featuring restored vehicles and military themed entertainment. With brass band concerts, military vehicle displays, ENSA entertainment and tea dances, food, battle re-enactments and the big Parade on Sunday. From 9am 0161 764 7790 www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM NORTH What Nancy Did Next (See Sat 14 May)
Sat 28 May - Sun 5 June
IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM NORTH, LEARNING STUDIO Build! Be Creative Special craft sessions themed to rebuilding including sessions with collage (28 – 30 May) & clay modeling (31 May) 1 – 4 pm 0161 836 4000 www.iwm.org.uk/north
Share myth, romance and reality as you walk and talk your way through the encampment. Gunfire and battle, bugle and drum – fun for all! 12 pm – 5 pm (last entry 4 pm) Adults £5, Children £3, Family £13 01625 374 400 www.tattonpark.org.uk
Mon 30 May – Fri 3 June
DUNHAM MASSEY, ALTRINCHAM How does your garden grow? Make a giant flower or come to a scarecrow workshop plus lots of green fingered activities for half term. 12 noon – 4 pm 0161 941 1025 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunhammassey
Mon 30 May
TATTON PARK Sheep Shearing at the Farm See the farm staff shearing the flock ready for summer. 12 – 5 pm (shearing from 1.30 pm, last entry 4 pm). Normal charges apply 01625 374 400 www.tattonpark.org.uk
Mon 30 May – Fri 3 June
THE MANCHESTER MUSEUM Living Worlds What would happen if we had no minibeasts like dung beetles and earthworms? Would Planet Earth be the same again? Create an animal or plant and add it to the giant paper chain of life. 11 am – 4 pm Most activities are free and drop-in, some may need booking on the day and may cost up to £1.50. All ages 0161 275 2648 www.manchester.ac.uk/museum
Tue 31 May – Fri 3 June
MANCHESTER ART GALLERY Make a Funny Portrait 1 – 3 pm 0161 235 8888 www.manchestergalleries.org
Tue 31 May
BURY ART GALLERY Giant Butterflies 2 – 3.30 pm Ages 4 – 12 years No need to book, but places are limited £2 per child 0161 253 5878 www.bury.gov.uk/events IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUM NORTH Oskar’s Journey (see Sun 29 May) PEOPLE’S HISTORY MUSEUM Living History performance: Read All About It! Papers, Protest and Peterloo Discover the headlines behind Peterloo, cotton mills and child labour. Suitable for over 7s to adults No booking required Free. 1.30 – 2.15 pm 0161 838 9190 www.phm.org.uk PEOPLE’S HISTORY MUSEUM The Little People’s History Museum: Beeing Special Meet Little Bee, the bee who wants to be different. Join in the busy bee dance, search for flowers and follow his adventure as he becomes the hero of Victorian Manchester. Fun session with puppets, songs, dance and craft. Under 5s and their grown ups. Booking advised. £1 per child, adults free. 11 am – 12 noon. 0161 838 9190 www.phm.org.uk
PEOPLE’S HISTORY MUSEUM Banner attack! Come along and help to build a huge banner in the Engine Hall using cloths, collage and other fun techniques. Suitable for all ages No booking required Free 1.30 – 3.30 pm 0161 838 9190 www.phm.org.uk
Thu 2 June
BURY ART GALLERY Animal Masks 2 – 3.30 pm Ages 4 – 12 years No need to book, but places are limited £2 per child 0161 253 5878 www.bury.gov.uk/events DUNHAM MASSEY, ALTRINCHAM Little Green Fingers Plants and seeds galore! 12 – 4 pm 0161 941 1025 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunhammassey
Fri 3 June
DUNHAM MASSEY, ALTRINCHAM Bugs and Beasties Find out what lurks beneath the rocks and trunks of Dunham 12 – 4 pm 0161 941 1025 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunhammassey
Fri 3 – Sat 4 June
THE LOWRY, QUAYS THEATRE The Adventures of Baron Munchausen
QUEEN’S PARK, HEYWOOD Bluebells in the Roch Valley Enjoy a short walk in the Roch Valley and discover a wonderful display of Bluebells 1 – 3 pm 01706 373421 www.rochdale.gov.uk/events
Wed 1 June
DUNHAM MASSEY, ALTRINCHAM Dunham Detectives Be one of Dunham’s undercover 1930s gardeners. 12 – 4 pm 0161 941 1025 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunhammassey HEALEY DELL, ROCHDALE Have-A-Go-Fishing 45 minute taster sessions led by the rangers. Rods and reels are provided, all ages and abilities welcome. Free, booking essential. 01706 373421 www.rochdale.gov.uk/events LYME PARK, DISLEY Paper Makers Make paper like they did 500 years ago. Suitable for 6+. £3 per child. 1 – 3 pm 01663 762 023 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lymepark
14 May/June 2011 Families Manchester www.familiesmanchester.co.uk
UK premiere features mesmerizing illusions and large screen projections in a laugh-outloud comedy for all the family. Fri 7 pm, Sat 2.30 pm Children £10, Adults £15 0843 208 6000 www.thelowry.com
Sat 4 – Sun 5 June
RED BANK PLAYING FIELDS, RADCLIFFE Radcliffe Carnival Weekend Saturday – carnival parade and crown of queens at 2 pm, marjorettes & vintage cars Sunday – dog show, car boot and vintage cars. 10 am – 6 pm 0161 797 4475 www.bury.gov.uk/events TATTON PARK Sheap Shearing at the Farm (See Mon 30 May)
Out & andAbout About Out TATTON PARK Classic and Performance Car Spectacular with Giant Cheshire Autojumble Around 2000 classic vintage cars on show and a massive autojumble. Children’s rides and refreshments. 11 am – 4 pm. Adults £7.50, children under 12 free Car entry charge applies 01565 723 863 www.cheshireautopromotions.co.uk
Sat 4 June
BURY ART GALLERY Doodle Disco (see Sat 7 May) MANCHESTER ART GALLERY Family Art Club (see Sat 7 May) WATERSIDE ARTS CENTRE, SALE Draw Me a Bird By Peut-être Theatre A dance-music theatre piece for children and their grown-ups about a little bird in a big city. Fly from the pavements to the skies with this engaging show. 2.30 pm £6.50 / £4.50 0161 912 5616 www.watersideartscentre.co.uk WATERSIDE ARTS CENTRE, SALE Comedysportz (see Sat 21 May)
Sun 5 June
CHEADLE Kids Car Boot and Swap Shop Sell or swap your unwanted toys, games and clothes in this special kids, which also helps Barnardos. At Kingsway Lower School. 10 am – 12.30 pm (stallholders from 9 am) £10 per pitch. Entrance fee 50p (entitles unlimited swaps) 07748 601 248 www.kidscarbootandswapshop.co.uk
Wed 8 June
LYME PARK, DISLEY Paper Makers (see Wed 1 June)
Fri 10 June
MANCHESTER ART GALLERY Mini Art Club (see Fri 13 May)
Sat 11 – Sun 12 June
EAST LANCASHIRE RAILWAY Edwardian Weekend Sample life in Edwardian times with suffragette scenarios, an Edwardian leisurely walk in Irwell Vale and period vehicles on display. Come in Edwardian costume for a discount on the train fares. 0161 764 7790 www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk MANCHESTER ART GALLERY Imagine Weekends (see Sat 14 May) TATTON PARK Shearing at the Farm (See Mon 30 May)
Sat 11 June
BURY ART GALLERY Design your own Packaging (see Sat 7 May)
DUNHAM MASSEY, ALTRINCHAM The Taming of the Shrew Outdoor theatre with Heartbreak Theatre. 7 pm, ages 7+. £9 children/ £14 adults Booking essential 0161 941 1025 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunhammassey GALLIPOLI GARDENS AND TRINITY STREET CAR PARK AND MARKET STREET, BURY Bury Lions Carnival Parade and Gala Day Lots of family fun with floats, bands, dancers and more. 11 am – 4 pm 07746 180 208 www.bury.gov.uk/events
ST MARY’S PARK, PRESTWICH Prestwich Carnival and Grand Parade Saturday football tournament and fair, Sunday six arenas, Majorettes, dog show, fair, bouncy castles etc. 12 – 6 pm (parade at 1 pm) 0161 253 7667 www.bury.gov.uk/events TATTON PARK Medieval Fayre at the Old Hall
Fri 24 June
THE MANCHESTER MUSEUM Magic Carpet: Journey to the West Storytelling and activity session for under 5s Book from 20 May, £1 per child 0161 275 2648 www.manchester.ac.uk/museum
Sat 25 – Sun 26 June
DUNHAM MASSEY, ALTRINCHAM Lords and their Ladies
HOLLINGWORTH LAKE VISITOR CENTRE, ROCHDALE Family Pond Dip Discover what wildlife lurks in the pond! Children must be accompanied by an adult. 2 – 4 pm. £1 per child Limited places so booking essential 01706 373421 www.rochdale.gov.uk/events THE MANCHESTER MUSEUM Big Saturday: Journey to the West Make your own treasures, storytelling and performances and films as part of China: Journey to the East . 11 am – 4 pm Most activities are free and drop-in, some may need booking on the day and may cost up to £1.50. All ages 0161 275 2648 www.manchester.ac.uk/museum
Sun 12 June
LYME PARK, DISLEY Bowmen of Lyme Try your hand at archery! £1 for 6 arrows, £2.50 to try longbow 11 am – 4.30 pm 01663 762 023 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lymepark SALE Kids Car Boot and Swap Shop (See Sun 8 May)
Fri 17 June
WALKDEN GARDENS Pinocchio Heartbreak Productions outdoor production brings a fresh, lively adaptation of this children’s fable. Bring family, friends and a picnic or enjoy the BBQ provided by Friends of Walkden Gardens. Ages 5+. 5.30 pm £12 / £8 / £35 (Family ticket 2 adults & 2 children) Bring something to sit on! 0161 912 5616 www.watersideartscentre.co.uk
Sat 18 June
BURY ART GALLERY Paper portraits (see Sat 7 May)
Sat 18 – Sun 19 June
LYME PARK, DISLEY Beer and Bulbs Thousands of bulb bargains from Lyme’s gardens and treat Dad to some locally brewed beer on Father’s Day! 11 am – 5 pm 01663 762 023 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lymepark
Come and see ‘The Kynges Progress’ with hundreds of re-enactors, witness a traveling fair, quake in the presence of His Majesty and see a spectacular battle. 11 am – 5 pm (last entry 4 pm) Adults £6, Children £3.50, Family £16 Normal car entry charge applies 01625 374 400 www.tattonpark.org.uk
Sun 19 June
LYME PARK, DISLEY Fabulous Fathers Decorate a porcelain plant pot and make a card for Father’s Day. £5. 1 – 3 pm 01663 762 023 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lymepark THE LOWRY, THE STUDIO Forest Fables Theatre Rotto. Is the North Wind or the Sun the stronger? Ancient tales from Aesop performed with the use of puppets, music and your incredible imagination. Ages 3 – 7. 12 pm & 2 pm Children £5.50, Adults £8.50 0843 208 6000 www.thelowry.com
Tue 21 June
PEOPLE’S HISTORY MUSEUM The Little People’s History Museum: Under the Rainbow Meet Matilda and her magic rainbow bag. Fun interactive story session with puppets, song, dance and a craft activitiy Suitable for under 5s and their grown ups Booking advised. £1 per child, adults free 11 am – 12 noon 0161 838 9190 www.phm.org.uk
Wed 22 June
HALL SLOPE, ALKRINGTON WOODS Family BBQ and Treasure Hunt Enjoy a summer evening on Hall Slope with the Friends of Alkrington Woods. Suitable for the whole family. 7 – 9 pm
Meet the 6th and 7th Earls of Stamford who lived at Dunham and hear tales of disobedient daughters and unsuitable marriages. 12 noon – 4 pm 0161 941 1025 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunhammassey
Sat 25 June
BURY ART GALLERY Imaginary Landscapes (see Sat 7 May) HOLLINGWORTH LAKE VISITOR CENTRE, ROCHDALE Go Wild in the Woods Celebrate the longest day listening to the green man myths and legends and be inspired by your own work of art. Ages 7 – 12. £1 each child Limited places so booking essential 01706 373421 www.rochdale.gov.uk/events TATTON PARK Fantastic Mr Fox Illyria outdoor theatre performs Roald Dahl’s engaging story. Will Boggis, Bunce and Bean put a stop to Mr Fox once and for all? Performance starts 3pm. Adults £10, Children £7. Booking advised 01625 374 400 www.tattonpark.org.uk
Sun 26 June
BURRS COUNTRY PARK, BURY Bury Agricultural Show Lots of cattle, arts and crafts, hotrods and vintage machinery plus children’s fairground, climbing wall and paintballing 9 am – 5.30 pm www.bury.gov.uk/events THE LOWRY, THE STUDIO The Clock Master Sparkle & Dark’s Travelling Players bring this magical modern fable about a stubborn young girl and a clockwork trinket together with live music, storytelling and mild puppet peril! Ages 5+. 12 pm & 3 pm Children £5.50, Adults £8.50 0843 208 6000 www.thelowry.com
See www.familiesmanchester.co.uk/whatson for regular weekly activities and even more events May/June 2011 Families Manchester www.familiesmanchester.co.uk 15