Sept_Oct 2026_Issue 91 by Families Magazine

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Education Feature Active Families Family Law Issue 91: Sept/Oct 2026

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KINGFISHER LEISURE CENTRE, SUDBURY SUNDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER 2026 OPEN TO FAMILIES, INDIVIDUALS & CORPORATE TEAMS

FOUR ROUTES TO CHOOSE FROM 3 MILES

6 13 26 MILES MILES* MILES*

Child Ticket from £10 Adult Ticket from £15 Family Ticket from £45 Team Ticket - £120 *Age restrictions apply

Family ticket includes 2 adults and up to 3 children

In partnership with:

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SUNDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER KINGFISHER LEISURE CENTRE, SUDBURY

EDITOR Stacey Phillips T: 07951 946736 E: editor@familiessuffolk.co.uk

A fun, family-friendly 3-mile trail, with a prize for every child!

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12,000 copies of the magazine are distributed throughout Suffolk. To request copies please contact the editor.

Welcome Welcome to the new Autumn issue. I hope the return to school, or perhaps the start of school for the first time has gone well and that you’re settling into your new routines. Wishing you and your families a happy, healthy and successful new school year.

PART OF THE

In this issue, we have a fantastic Education feature, including some helpful tips from Ipswich School on how to get the most out of school open events and make the right choice for your child. We also have some great guidance from our Family Law experts, Ellisons, on putting children first following separation, with practical advice to help families navigate what can be a challenging time. I hope you enjoy this new issue. Best wishes.

Stacey Phillips

Family Law

10-16 Education Feature

Family Pets

Active Families

What's On

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IN THIS ISSUE

Education Feature

Active Families Family Law Issue 91: Sept/Oct 2026

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To subscribe to our FREE online edition, please visit: www.bit.ly/2XolhJe. PRINT DISCLAIMER: Families Suffolk Magazine is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Print Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine,but Families Print Ltd, the distributors, franchisees and LCMB cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents,or any consequence thereof.

Everything begins with family. We believe that Suffolk should be a place where families never have to struggle in silence behind closed doors. We give the time to support families of every kind, helping them to find self-belief through small but significant steps.

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WHAT'S ON

Ipswich Waterfront 16 Oct 2026 – 21 Feb 2027

Learn about the brutal Suffolk witch trials of 1645-1647 Featuring prestigious loans from across the country Explore how the image of the witch has evolved through time Adult: £5, Concession: £4.50, Child: £4 (4-16 years old), Group Ticket: £14 (2 adults, 2 children), National Art Pass members: £2.50, Under 4s and support individuals are free

Scan the QR code to find out more about this exhibition plus additional talks, walks, workshops, and family events! Made possible with a grant from the Weston Loan Programme with Art Fund and with support from Debach Enterprises

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ACTIVE FAMILIES

Why exercise helps kids succeed at school It's not just a hunch - the research backs it up. Studies consistently show that children who are physically active tend to concentrate better, behave better, and perform better academically than their less active peers. The Youth Sport Trust, a UK charity dedicated to improving children's education through sport and play, has reviewed the evidence linking physical activity to school attainment, drawing on studies of UK schoolchildren that connect activity levels with improved concentration and academic results. Researchers believe this comes down to how exercise affects the brain. Just 30 minutes of moderate activity has been shown to boost blood flow and electrical activity in the brain, sharpening children's ability to focus and process information. Regular movement also appears to lower cortisol, the stress hormone linked to shorter attention spans, while boosting endorphins that lift mood and motivation.

Then there's the discipline side. Turning up to training regardless of the weather, following the rules of a game, and working as part of a team all build habits — patience, resilience, self-control — that transfer directly to homework, revision, and sitting still through a lesson. At Abbeycroft, we see the evidence every day: active kids don't just get fitter — they get sharper, calmer, and better prepared for the classroom.

www.abbeycroft.org.uk

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Families Suffolk: Issue 91

Stay healthy while travelling Travelling abroad can expose you to infections and health risks that are less common in the UK. A few simple steps before, during and after your trip can help you stay well and avoid bringing infections home.

Before you travel

•

Health risks vary by destination, so check the latest advice before you go at travelhealthpro.org.uk Make sure you and your family are up to date with routine UK vaccinations, as well as any recommended for your destination. Ideally, arrange any vaccinations 4–6 weeks before you travel through your local pharmacy, GP or travel clinic. Some vaccines, including polio, typhoid, hepatitis A and cholera, are free on the NHS. Also: • • •

Pack enough medication for your trip, plus extra in case of delays. Take a few essentials such as pain relief and insect repellent. Check your travel insurance includes healthcare cover.

• • •

Use insect repellent (ideally up to 50% DEET) on exposed skin. Wear long sleeves and trousers. Sleep under a treated mosquito net if advised. Take antimalarial tablets as prescribed, if needed.

Be careful with food and water • • • • •

Wash your hands regularly, especially before eating. Drink bottled or treated water where advised. Avoid ice unless you know it’s safe. Choose food that is freshly cooked and served hot. Avoid raw or undercooked meat and unpasteurised (raw) milk or dairy products.

Protect yourself from the sun •

Use sunscreen and wear a hat, sunglasses and suitable clothing. Stay in the shade during the hottest part of the day. Drink plenty of fluids.

During your trip

• •

Avoid insect bites

When you return home

Mosquitoes and other insects can spread diseases such as malaria, dengue and Zika.

If you feel unwell after your trip, contact your GP or call NHS 111. Tell them that you have been travelling and where you have been.

Have your say on the future of Healthy Child Services Suffolk County Council would like your views on proposed changes to Healthy Child Services in Suffolk, including Health Visiting, School Nursing and support for young parents. As demand for services continues to grow, the council is reviewing how these services are delivered to ensure support remains focused on prevention, early help and safeguarding for Suffolk families. To have your say, visit: suffolk.gov.uk/hcs-consultation. The consultation closes on 18 October 2026. 6 Families Suffolk: Issue 91

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Families Suffolk: Issue 91

FAMILY PETS

Which Pet is Right for Your Family? Thinking about adding a furry, feathered or finned friend to your family? Before you fall in love with those puppy-dog eyes, think about which pet will really fit your family’s lifestyle. For many children, having a pet is a childhood dream. Whether it’s a dog to take on adventures, a rabbit to cuddle or colourful fish to watch, animals can bring companionship, fun and plenty of special memories. But every pet comes with responsibilities, so choosing the right one is important.

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Rabbits - more demanding than you might think Rabbits are often seen as an easy first pet, but they need plenty of space, the right diet, veterinary care and companionship. They may also not enjoy being picked up and cuddled as much as children expect.

Guinea pigs - small but sociable Guinea pigs can make lovely family pets and are fun to watch and interact with. They are sociable animals and generally need company, as well as suitable accommodation that requires regular cleaning.

Dogs - for active families

Fish - fascinating and calming

Dogs can be wonderful family companions, particularly for families who enjoy getting outdoors. But they need time, exercise, training and attention every day - whatever the weather! Puppies also require lots of patience, so think carefully about who will take responsibility for walks, feeding and training.

Fish can be a great introduction to caring for animals, but they aren't completely hands-off! Tanks need regular maintenance, and feeding and water quality need to be carefully managed.

Cats - independent but affectionate Cats can be a great choice for families looking for a pet that is generally more independent than a dog. They still need daily care, play, companionship and veterinary attention. Remember, every cat is different - some love cuddles, while others prefer their own space.

Before you choose… Ask yourselves: How much time do we have? What can we afford? Who will care for the pet every day? What happens when we go on holiday? Most importantly, choose a pet because it suits your family, not simply because the children have fallen in love with a cute picture! With the right preparation and commitment, a family pet can become a much-loved member of the family.

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FAMILY LAW

Putting Children First After Separation Family Law advice from Francesca Brown, Solicitor, Ellisons Family Department When parents separate, one of the biggest concerns is often how family life will look moving forward. Questions about where a child will live, how time will be shared and how important decisions will be made can quickly become a source of worry and disagreement. While every family's circumstances are different, most parents share the same goal: helping their child feel secure, supported and loved during a period of change. Children respond to separation in different ways depending on their age, personality and individual circumstances. Some adapt quickly, while others need more reassurance and time to settle into new routines. Consistency, stability and open communication can play an important role in helping them adjust. When difficulties arise between parents, it is often beneficial to explore ways of resolving issues together before considering court proceedings. Family counselling can help address the underlying causes of conflict and improve communication. Mediation is another valuable option, providing a neutral setting in which parents can discuss concerns, consider solutions and work towards practical agreements that support their child's needs. Many families find that resolving matters outside of court helps reduce stress, avoid unnecessary conflict and allow parents to retain greater control over decisions affecting their child.

wishes and feelings, emotional wellbeing and any potential risk of harm. Where it is safe and appropriate to do so, the court will usually seek to support a child having a meaningful relationship with both parents. Every family's situation is unique, and there is rarely a one-size-fits-all solution. Seeking advice at an early stage can often help parents understand their options, reduce uncertainty and focus on finding arrangements that work for their family. At Ellisons, we understand how emotionally challenging disagreements about children can be. Our Family Law team provides practical, sensitive and tailored advice to help families navigate difficult situations and work towards positive outcomes for the future.

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Those with parental responsibility remain involved in significant aspects of a child's upbringing, including education, healthcare and general welfare, regardless of where the child lives. Important decisions should continue to be made with the child's best interests in mind, even when parents are no longer together. Unfortunately, it is not always possible to reach an agreement. In those circumstances, a parent may apply to the Family Court for a Child Arrangements Order. This can determine where a child lives and the time they spend with each parent or other important family members. In some cases, the court may ask Cafcass (the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service) to become involved. Cafcass works independently to help the court understand a child's circumstances and welfare needs and may make recommendations about what would best support them moving forward. Depending on the issues involved, there may be several hearings before a final decision is made. Throughout the process, the court's primary concern is the welfare of the child. This includes considering their individual needs,

ELLISONS’ FAMILY AND DIVORCE LAWYERS — SUPPORTING YOU THROUGH DIFFICULT TIMES. We’re in your corner, with clear and compassionate advice. Trusted across Suffolk and Essex.

Francesca Easter Suffolk Partner, Solicitor

01473 945614 francesca.easter@ellisons.com

CONTACT US FOR A FREE EXPLORATORY CONVERSATION Ellisons is a trading name of Ellisons Legal LLP. Ellisons Legal LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA Number 8001031).

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Families Suffolk: Issue 91

EDUCATION

AI at home: helping children use it wisely By Zuzu Jordan

AI is already part of the world that our children’s world and even if we’d like to, we can’t pretend it doesn’t exist. But nor should we simply hand over responsibility for their learning to a machine. The most helpful place for parents lies between those extremes: in other words, adults using AI alongside children, with curiosity, clear boundaries and plenty of conversation. Parents’ worries are understandable. Artificial intelligence can produce inaccurate answers, reflect bias and make it tempting to skip the effort involved in learning. AI collects, processes and stores our data too, so it’s important that children understand that personal information, photographs and private family details should never be entered into an AI tool without an adult’s permission. Used thoughtfully though, AI can become a creative learning partner rather than a shortcut. One positive use for AI begins with talking. Pie Corbett’s Talk for Writing approach recognises the importance of children orally rehearsing language and ideas before writing. Speaking can help a child organise a story, experiment with vocabulary and hear whether a sentence makes sense. So an adult could invite a child to describe an imaginary setting using the voice feature in an age-appropriate AI app. The child might describe a silver castle balanced on a cloud, with spiral windows and a garden of singing flowers. The AI could then create a picture or a written description based on those spoken ideas. The important learning happens next. Does the result match what the child imagined? What has the AI misunderstood or left out? Which words could make the instructions to the AI clearer? The child remains the author, while the technology provides a way to question, edit and improve. This can be especially useful for children who find the blank page intimidating or whose spoken ideas are stronger than their current writing. AI should not write the finished piece of work though. Instead, it can help capture an initial idea, suggest vocabulary or turn a child’s words into an image they can evaluate. The child can then write, draw, revise or expand independently. AI can support parents too. Many adults want to help with homework but feel unsure about today’s subject terminology. A parent could ask: ‘My child is learning about fronted adverbials. Explain the term to me simply, give me three

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examples and suggest questions I can ask my child without doing the work for them.’ Using AI in this way gives parents a starting point for a better conversation: ‘Show me how your teacher explained it,’ ‘Which part makes sense?’ or ‘What could we check together?’ The adult’s role is to keep asking who made the choices, whose ideas are being used and what the child has learned independently. Children also need to learn that AI is not an authority. It is a tool that predicts and generates response and it can sound confident while being wrong. Encourage kids to use a simple routine: ask, check and create. Ask a clear question. Check the answer against a trusted source or knowledgeable adult. Then create something of their own from what they have learned. The aim is not to raise children who rely on AI for every answer. It is to raise thoughtful users who can question technology, protect their privacy, recognise AI’s limitations and use it to extend their own imagination. Parents do not need to know everything before beginning to use AI tools exploring together may be the most valuable lesson of all.

Family rules for using AI Use AI with your child and ask them to explain what they think before consulting it. Never enter names, addresses, school details, photographs or private family information. Remind children that AI can make mistakes so should not replace trusted adults, books or school guidance and to check important answers against another reliable source. AI may offer prompts, examples or feedback but the ideas, decisions and finished work should remain the child’s and reflect their own understanding. Zuzu Jordan is a Mastery for Maths Specialist who has taught primary for eighteen years and is Director of Arnett International. For FREE resources and tips, find her on Instagram @edumate_uk

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C O L L E G E

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W H E R E E V E R Y P U P I L C R E A T E S T H E I R O W N S T O RY

JOIN US AT OUR AUTUMN

Halloween Themed Stay and Play Session on Saturday 10 October 2026

Sign up for our Halloween themed Stay and Play session (ages 2 -7) where you can come and experience our Nursery. An opportunity to play together, enjoy some spooky stories, arts and craft and go on some mischievous outdoor adventures. The session will run from 09:30 - 11:30 in our purpose-built Early Years Building at Framlingham College Prep School, IP13 7AH Free of charge | Siblings welcome

Scan the QR code to book or go to framlinghamcollege.co.uk/stayandplay

Let’s see who you are... PREP SCHOOL OPEN MORNING Friday 02 October 2026 10:00 - 13:00

12 September 2025 | 10:00 - 13:00 To register, visitFriday framlinghamcollege.co.uk/admissions admissions@framlinghamcollege.co.uk 01728 684112

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EDUCATION

Nursery Places and a Seamless Transition to Reception at Finborough Visit the Family Learning Festival The Family Learning Festival which runs from 3 October to 1 November is an annual celebration of the joy of learning together as a family. This festival encourages families to explore, discover and learn new things through a wide range of educational activities and experiences. It emphasises the importance of family bonding through shared learning and provides opportunities for families to engage in creative and enriching activities. Choosing the right Nursery is one of the most important decisions parents make, and at Finborough School, children benefit from an environment that prepares them for a confident and successful start in Reception and beyond. From the very beginning, Finborough’s Early Years provision focuses on nurturing the whole child. Children are encouraged to develop confidence, curiosity, kindness, and independence through a balance of play-based learning, exploration, and carefully planned activities. As they progress towards Reception, they become familiar with school routines, build strong relationships with staff, and develop the social and emotional skills needed for the next stage of their education. The transition into Reception is designed to feel natural and reassuring. Children move into a rich learning environment where they continue to develop key literacy and numeracy skills alongside specialist lessons in Music, Drama, P.E., Tennis, and French. Weekly Forest School sessions further support resilience, teamwork, and a love of learning outdoors. With small class sizes, specialist teaching, and a strong focus on character development, Finborough ensures every child is supported to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally from Nursery through to Prep School and beyond.

Whole School Open Morning Parents are invited to discover more at Finborough School's Whole-School Open Morning on Friday 25th September. To book your place, visit www.finboroughschool.co.uk or contact admissions@finboroughschool.co.uk.

Organisations across the UK, including schools, libraries, museums, children centres and galleries will be staging a range of FREE and low cost creative family learning events, workshops in your community that your family can participate in. Find a local Family Learning Festival event, visit www. familylearningfestival.com and use the interactive map.

Statutory School Phone Ban Enforced Across England from September The government has placed the national school mobile phone ban on a statutory footing under the newly enacted Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act. The new legislation officially comes into force on 29 June 2026, meaning all state-funded schools across England must operate fully phone-free environments by default when the new academic year starts in September. While ministers argue legal backing eliminates classroom distractions, headteachers warn the mandate presents major implementation hurdles. The Association of School and College Leaders noted that over 90% of schools already restrict devices, proving the real challenge lies in daily enforcement rather than regulation. Local school leaders now face significant pressure to police "off and away" policies without dedicated funding for secure storage pouches or lockers. Furthermore, successfully managing parental resistance regarding emergency communication remains a hurdle as schools transition over to this stricter, legally binding regime.

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INDEPENDENT, CO-EDUCATIONAL DAY AND BOARDING SCHOOL, PLUS NURSERY Finborough School offers a unique character focused approach to education from its nursery all the way through to its sixth form. With an abundance of learning opportunities both inside and outside of the classroom that includes our magical Forest School programme, our Pre-Prep department is a very special place to be!

Whole School Open Morning Friday 25th September

Scan the QR code Find out more and book your place:

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Families Suffolk: Issue 91

EDUCATION

Getting the Most Out of Open Events Choosing a school is one of the biggest decisions a family will make. Websites, prospectuses and ecommendations can all help to build a picture, but nothing quite compares with visiting a school and experiencing it for yourself. Open events are a valuable opportunity to look beyond the photographs and statistics and get a genuine sense of what everyday life might be like for your child. With so much to take in, however, it is worth approaching the day with a few things in mind.

Look beyond the facilities It is easy to be impressed by beautiful buildings, extensive grounds or outstanding facilities. They matter, but what happens within them matters much more. Look at how the spaces are being used. Are pupils enthusiastic about what they are doing? Do teachers speak passionately about their subjects? Can you imagine your child feeling comfortable, challenged and inspired there? A science laboratory, theatre or sports pitch only really comes to life through the people and experiences that fill it.

Talk to the pupils Pupils are often the best people to speak to at an open event. They experience the school every day and will usually give you a refreshingly straightforward view of it. If you have a pupil guide, ask about their favourite lessons, what they do at lunchtime, the activities they have tried and what surprised them when they first joined the school. Listen not only to what they say, but how they talk about their school. Their confidence, enthusiasm and relationships with teachers and other pupils can tell you a great deal.

Think about your child, not somebody else's Every child is different, so the right school for one family will not necessarily be the right school for another. Consider where your child will be encouraged to pursue the things they already love, but also where they will have opportunities to discover something completely new.

Academic results are important, but education is about much more than examination grades. Sport, music, drama, art, clubs, trips, friendships and countless everyday experiences all contribute to the person a young adult eventually becomes. The question is not simply, "How successful is this school?" but, "Could my child be successful and happy here?"

Ask about the everyday Open events naturally showcase schools at their best, so try to understand what happens on an ordinary Tuesday morning as well as on the day of your visit. What does a normal school day look like? How are new pupils helped to settle in? What happens if a child is struggling with a subject? How does pastoral care work? What opportunities are there outside the classroom? How easy is it for pupils to try something new? These practical questions often reveal more about the culture of a school than the headline information.

Pay attention to how the school feels Some of the most important impressions from an open event are difficult to measure. Notice how pupils interact with one another. Watch how staff speak to them. Look at whether there is warmth as well as ambition, and whether the atmosphere feels purposeful without being pressured. Most importantly, involve your child. What did they notice? Where did they feel most comfortable? What excited them? Who did they enjoy talking to? The experiences, friendships and memories they will make at school are difficult to capture in a league table or prospectus, but they will shape their education just as much as what happens in the classroom.

Take your time You do not need to make a decision as you walk out of the gates. Talk about the visit afterwards, compare impressions and, if you are seriously considering the school, arrange another visit if possible. An open event should leave you with more than a list of facilities or achievements. It should give you a glimpse of the future: the experiences your child could have, the friendships they could make, the confidence they could develop and the person they might become. Because ultimately, choosing a school is not simply about choosing where your child will study. It is about choosing where they will spend some of the most formative years of their life.

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Families Suffolk: Issue 91

Ambition begins from day one Experience St Jo’s ﬁrst hand: Open Morning: Saturday 19 September Snapshot Morning: Thursday 8 October Thursday 12 November

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