Issuu

NEWS & VIEWS

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • 3

Contents This Winter

03 News & Views 11 Let’s Party

Seasonal Special 14 Winter Wonderland

Welcome to

What’s On

Winter

22 Diary Dates 26 Festive Entainment

Welcome to the latest issue of KidAround, ready to help you make the most of the festive season. You can start off with our Let’s Party feature on p11 and work through to the Winter Wonderland feature on p14. We have lots of great ideas for where to go, what to do and what to buy. If you’re searching for suggestions for books for Christmas, then have a look at our book review section, which should give you a wide variety of ideas. Our pantomime section will provide all the information you need to indulge in a bit of ‘he’s behind you!’ or ‘oh yes he is!’. Don’t forget the non-festive theatrical offerings though, for example wonderful classics like ‘The Railway Children’ and ‘The Wind in the Willows’. We have separated out the February half-term events in this issue, to make it easier for you to see at a glance what’s on offer. We hope you find this helpful. The KidAround team wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy 2016. We will see you again in the Spring!

Education Matters 29 Book Reviews 30 Learning & Education

Family Life 32 Get Active

Early Years

36 Beauty, Bump & Baby 38 Childcare

All this plus: Competitions p08

(we are a friendly bunch) Publisher: Anna Hurley anna.hurley@kidaround.biz Sales Manager: Kate Ellison kate.ellison@kidaround.biz Listings Editor: Suzanne Gardner suzanne.gardner@kidaround.biz

Colour Therapy p09

Social Media: Tina Read tina.read@kidaround.biz Tel: 01371 238071 Anna xx

KidAround is published quarterly by Trew Publishing Ltd. Address: 66 Baynard Avenue, Little Dunmow, Essex, CM6 3FD Tel: 01371 238071 | email: info@kidaround.biz Circulation: over 120,000 - two Essex editions. Editorial is supplied by the advertiser and is not the responsibility of Trew Publishing Ltd. 4 • Winter 15/16 14/15 • South North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

READ KIDAROUND ONLINE WITH OUR MOBILE FRIENDLY SITE WWW.KIDAROUND.BIZ WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/KIDAROUNDMAGAZINE WWW.TWITTER.COM/KIDAROUNDMAG

NEWS & VIEWS

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • 5

Our local news for Winter. Plus national events and awareness days

KidAround’s recommended App: Share The Meal The United Nations World Food Programme has produced a free smartphone app called ShareTheMeal, which allows users to donate 35p whenever and wherever they want. The sum is enough to provide a child in developing countries with vital nutrition for a day. The idea is to give people a quick and easy way to help as they sit down for lunch at their desks or dinner with friends. Users can also donate as many times as they want and will be able to follow the progress of their donation through the app to see where their money is going. Earlier in 2015 the WFP helped schoolchildren in Lesotho as a result of people ‘sharing’ 1.8 million meals through the app. The WFP is currently raising funds specifically to feed children who have fled conflict in Syria to Jordan. To find out more look at https://sharethemeal.org

This Christmas take the opportunity to explore the outdoors and join in the festive fun at Essex Country Parks. Wrap up warm, grab your scarf, hat and gloves and enjoy the magic of Christmas in the beautiful Essex countryside. You can search for presents dropped by Father Christmas in Belhus Woods or hunt for magic snowflakes scattered across Weald Country Park. Go and see the (rein)deer at Weald Country Park and explore the Stick Man trail - he helped Father Christmas deliver presents you know! For local crafts, live entertainment and Elsa’s grotto the Christmas Market at Belhus Woods on 12 December will put a smile on the face of many children. The miniature railway will be offering rides too -weather permitting. On Sunday 20 December there is still the chance to meet Father Christmas at Thorndon Country Park, North. The Santa Celebration trail runs through the park and gives children the chance to learn all about the elves and their work making toys for girls and boys to enjoy at Christmas. The self-guided trail takes you through the woods, meeting characters and solving problems and ends with a visit to Father Christmas. Booking is essential and costs £8 per child, call 0845 603 7624 to book. 6 • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

NEWS & VIEWS

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • 7

Competitions

KidAround have some amazing competitions for you this Winter..... All you have to do is enter!

More competitons can be found online at www.kidaround.biz You can also follow us facebook.com/ kidaroundmagazine

WIN A DECADENT SPA DAY FOR 2 Just what you need to escape Christmas for the day, Greenwoods Hotel & Spa are offering KidAround readers a chance to win one of two ‘Dazzling December’ packages - for free! The specially designed package includes full use of spa facilities between 9am and 6.30pm, including indoor pool, gym, jacuzzi and steam room, a delicious two course lunch and a mulled wine exfoliating back massage to ease away the strains of the day. The spa which has undergone a major refurbishment, now boasts a luxury premier suite where two guests can enjoy a day of private pampering! Available from Monday to Thursday, price £64.00. HOW TO ENTER: Email your name, address, contact number to comps@kidaround.biz including Spa Day in the Subject or go online at www.kidaround.biz T&Cs: Competition closes at midday on 18th December. Spa prize has to be taken by December 31st 2015

Competition rules: Please ensure your entry reaches us by the closing date specified. Prizes have no cash value and cannot be exchanged for any other prize. You can also enter by post to: Trew Publishing Ltd, 66 Baynard Avenue, Little Dunmow, Essex CM6 3FD. As well as online at: www.kidaround.biz All entries must contain your name, address and a contact telephone number.

Good luck! 8 • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

NEWS & VIEWS Gosfield Independent School & New Nursery

At Gosfield they celebrate the individuality of each child as they develop a sense of community. It is important that they have pride in the school and understand that they are all part of its vitality and success. Personal independence and a caring, helpful attitude towards others go hand-in-hand at this school. Good behaviour, traditional values and respect for others are the norm. The Prep School includes the latest technology and wireless connectivity, enhancing pupil learning and enabling lessons to take place inside and outside the classroom. With an academic focus on Literacy and Numeracy, pupils also follow a creative curriculum and have access to the most up to date learning materials for school work and homework. Subject specialist teachers for Science, Spanish, Computing, Music, Food Technology and PE provide additional learning opportunities. With a maximum class size of 20 they maintain their high academic standards and extend every child’s individual ability. A weekly Forest School lesson takes advantage of 110 acres of beautiful parkland, improving self-confidence and developing individual and teamwork skills. An extensive after school activities programme offers pupils the opportunity to participate in a wide range of opportunities such as trampolining, archery, athletics, cross country, watercolour painting, card making, playground games and hula hooping. New Nursery As a through school Gosfield is committed to the development of pupils from Early Years to Sixth Form. They are therefore delighted to announce the opening of our new Nursery in Spring 2016. They welcome children from the age of 2 to 4 years old. Visit gosfieldschool.org.uk to find out more or call 01787 474040 to book an appointment.

The New CrazeColouring Therapy.... So, what’s it all about? Colouring has been a common children’s activity for generations but over the last couple of years there has been a huge increase in the popularity of colouring books, both for children and adults. They are a great place to start if you are not particularly artistically talented but want to do something creative and books range from those with simple designs to amazingly intricate ones. For children, colouring provides an opportunity to focus and concentrate on something creative (and which isn’t technological!). Adults enjoy it because it is relaxing and eases tension and they can either do it alone or with their children. Aswell as just the straightforward colouring books, there are also doodling books, zen colouring and journaling. Some books are even designed so that you can tear out the images and frame them after you’ve coloured them in, so you can display your artistic achievements. So get your colouring pencils out and have a go! www.kidaround.biz • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • 9

NEWS & VIEWS

National Storytelling Week 30th Jan to 6th Feb 2016

From retelling something that’s happened in your day, reading a night time story to a child, or watching a plot unfold on TV, everyone loves a good story! Contact The Society for Storytelling on www.sfs.org.uk/national-storytelling-week and they will send you a pack with all the information you need on how to organise and promote your own event.

Keep up to with the latest KidAround news and competitions via our facebook page, twitter and online!

10 • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

LET’S PARTY

The Perfect Party Venue

Sky Ropes Great Notley Country Park - Birthday Parties

Sky Ropes consists of 2 exciting courses: a junior low ropes course and a double level high ropes course. Take the hassle out of party organising, with 2 packages on offer. Both include a Sky Ropes experience, party food and 2.5 hours room hire (subject to availability). Sky Ropes Party £19 per person Experience a fantastic double level high ropes exhilarating course and enjoy amazing views whilst having a great time. Sky Ropes Junior Party £13 per child Little ones will have fun on the balance beams, wobbly ladders and stepping stones. For further information: Telephone: 01376 567676 greatnotley.countrypark@essex.gov.uk www.visitparks.co.uk Great Notley Country Park, Great Notley, Braintree, Essex CM77 7FS

Theatricool Studio is a welcome addition to Colchester as a lovely venue to hire! This space has been lovingly refurbished as a children’s party venue, studio and event/rehearsal/ performance space. With wonderful natural lighting, a polished wood floor, mirrors, and a stage, the main hall is a gorgeous place for a children’s party, vintagethemed wedding, christening or family gathering. It also lends itself beautifully to events such as a tea-dance with a vintage feel to celebrate a special grandparent! There is plenty of space for dancing, playing games and enjoying entertainment. The hall offers a large, very well-equipped kitchen, and a small party food room situated off the main hall with plenty of chairs and tables. It has everything you need to organize the catering in a totally hassle-free way. You can hire the studio and organize all aspects of the celebration. Alternatively, you could book a Theatricool themed party and let the professional team of trained party hosts provide all the entertainment. You can sit back and watch the children having fun! On term-time Wednesdays the studio is host to the popular TInycool Tots dance and drama classes for ages 2-4 which run at 10am and 2pm for one hour. There is also a fun after school drama club for children aged 7-11 years, from 4.30 to 5.30. Limited free parking is available at and (after 6.00pm) close to the hall plus 5 minutes walk away there is a large pay and display car park at Middleborough. To find out more about booking Theatricool Studio for your child’s birthday party, please call Sally on 07736 713909, email: sally@theatricool.co.uk or visit www.theatricool.co.uk

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • 11

Let’s Party Directory! ACTIVITY PARTIES

Animal Workshops Exotic and pet

animal encounters for parties, schools, activity workshops, sensory sessions and more! Call 07790 465266 every day! www.animalworkshops.co.uk

DRAMA PARTIES

Theatricool – great value, unforgettable birthday parties. At our Colchester studio, or a venue of your choice. Call Sally on 07736 713909  www.theatricool.co.uk

SoundMagic Studios For details

of recording parties, contact Steve or Victoria on 01376 501313 www.recordingparties.co.uk

Space Kingdom “For fun that’s out

of this world!” The perfect indoor play centre for every party & celebration. Age 0-12. 01255 435408 www.spacekingdom.co.uk fun@spacekingdom.co.uk

CREATIVE PARTIES

Children’s Chocolate Parties

Essex Wildlife Trust Abberton Reservoir Themed parties exploring

School visits and workshops for all ages. Contact Sarah Knights 07787 506846, sarah@chappelchocolatehouse.co.uk www.chappelchocolatehouse.co.uk

Essex Wildlife Trust Fingringhoe Wick Go wild with a party at

Audley End Miniature Railway

Little Kingfishers Play Centre

Hall for Hire Theatricool Studio for hire for rehearsal space; children’s parties; vintage and corporate events. Belle Vue Rd, Colchester, CO1 1 AX. 07736 713909 enquiries@theatricool.co.uk

the nature reserve, including fairy, detective and bug-hunting parties. 01206 738172 alic@essexwt.org.uk

Fingringhoe Wick nature reserve! Loads of themes including bushcraft, explorers, pirates, dinosaurs and more. Call 01206 729 678 or email hannahe@essexwt.org.uk Affordable party packages for children up to 10 years. 4-tiered play frame. Enjoy a leisure pool party with waves, slides and inflatables. Kingfisher Leisure Centre. 01787 375656 www.ssleisure.co.uk

Little Scrummers Rugby Exciting tag

rugby themed parties for 2-9yr olds with games, prizes and much more! 07738 591232 www.littlescrummers.com

PARTY PLACES

Looking for a party with a difference?

How about a Soundmagic Studios Recording Party package! Come into a professional recording studio with a group of friends and create your own CD! They provide the backing tracks and words to their selected pop songs and the guests sing along creating their very own recording. Party snacks or food with drinks are provided and all guests receive a party bag with a boxed CD which is specially packaged with photos of the group taken in the studio. For details of packages and availability please call Steve or Victoria at Soundmagic Studios on 01376 501313 or visit them at www.recordingparties.co.uk

Now offer children’s parties! Packages including catering. 01799 542134 www.audley-end-railway.co.uk

PARTY SUPPLIES

Pirates & Princesses A 500 year old

Aladdin’s cave on North Hill, Colchester, housing a wide range of traditional toys, gifts, partyware, sweetcones and balloons. 01206 764115 www.piratesandprincesses.co.uk

SD Martial Arts Energetic fun for boys and girls. Gladiator ring, sumo suits, padded swords & shields. Free class for each guest. 01206 860008 www.sd-martialarts.co.uk

Animal Workshops Mobile Zoo

Bored of the same old parties? Be the envy of your friends and book Animal Workshops Mobile Zoo for an exotic and domestic animal encounter for your party! You’ll get the chance to meet their scaly, slimy and furry friends, everything from Frogs and Meerkats to Hedgehogs and Snakes! There is a range of animals to suit everyone! This amazing selection comes to your home or venue, so you can get up close and hands on with the animals. There are packages to suit every budget, which can include games, goody bags, party food and even an animal cake! For full details please visit www.animalworkshop.co.uk or call 07790 465 266.

12 • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Space Kingdom

Space Kingdom is an amazing, totally exciting Kids Indoor play centre where kids will walk in and say wow! Junior Astronauts can climb a rocket, swing from ropes, discover tunnels or fly down a spectacular spiral or drop slide. Join your friends for a football match or speed around the Go-Kart track. Little Space Cadets can relax, climb or slide in the Milky Way Centre. Space Kingdom is the best place to celebrate a party, or hire the whole Centre, perfect for your own celebration. Go along today- for fun that’s out of this world- They are ready to blast off!

LET’S PARTY

Birthday Parties Fun For Everyone!

Make your child’s next birthday the most memorable yet! Enjoy 90 minutes playing in the fabulous four-tiered play frame and then tuck into a tasty birthday tea in one of the party rooms afterwards. You will have a party host to meet, greet & ensure your party runs smoothly. Your party will have an appearance from their own mascot Swoop and the birthday child will receive a free month’s membership after the party to relive the great fun they had! From £8.99pp. Ultimate party add ons are available for a little extra. Be a real VIP with exclusive private hire for all your friends & family to celebrate in style From £175 for 2 hour’s hire. To book please visit www.littlekingfishers.co.uk or call 01787 375656. Other party options include splash parties and private hire pool parties for great splashing fun! www.ssleisure.co.uk 01787 375656

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Enjoy a magical family day out at the Audley End Miniature Railway this Christmas!

Take the Santa Express into the woods to visit Father Christmas and his Elves at his woodland Grotto. Make sure you look out for the naughty elves along your journey; they can be so cheeky sometimes! Each child will receive a present from Father Christmas! Included in the price is: a train ride to visit Father Christmas, a present for every child, letter writing in the craft tent for every child and a complimentary hot drink of coffee, tea or mulled wine along with a sample of roasted chestnuts for the adults! Open from the 28th & 29th November, 5th & 6th, 12th & 13th, 16th – 24th December 2015. Trains run from 11.00am – 4.40pm. (They only run until 2.20pm on Christmas Eve) Please visit the website for more information and to book tickets – www.audley-end-railway.co.uk alternatively you can also turn up on the day and buy tickets from the ticket office.

14 • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Winter Wonderland Feature

Ho Ho Hadleigh

Join in for festive fun this Christmas at Hadleigh Park. Walk through the Winter Wonderland and travel back through time as you explore the Christmas trail. Meet Father Christmas, explore the nativity and feed the animals! As well as an action packed Christmas, there are lots of activities planned throughout the winter, including free balance bike sessions, which give children the chance to test their balance both on and off their bike and help them progress. Parents can try one of the new bootcamp sessions available, or join a Go-Tri event, perfect for cyclists and runners. Also coming soon is a a new Park Run - check their website for details. Families can continue to celebrate the New Year and enjoy a range of activities at Hadleigh Park throughout February half-term. Whatever the weather there is always something fun to do, with over 18km of mountain biking trail to suit all abilities and ages and 500 acres of beautiful countryside to explore. Their surfaced trails mean you can ride at Hadleigh Park all year round. Families can enjoy idyllic walks with magnificent views, learn about the rich history and discover a wide range of wildlife. There may even be the opportunity for sledging! The café has a range of seasonal offers and delicious treats to warm the whole family up after a day of adventure. Try their new white hot chocolate with a slice of sumptuous homemade cake! Don’t hibernate at home this winter, all weather is great weather at Hadleigh Park and there is something for everyone. There are always lots of activities planned for families in the school holidays and throughout the year. For more events and to keep in touch with the latest information, offers and mountain biking tips, sign up to the newsletter or visit the website www.hadleigh-park.co.uk

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Winter Wonderland Feature Giant Snow Globe & Festive Fun at Barleylands From 1st to 24th December spend a day in the Farm Park joining in extra Christmas activities. Get inside a giant Christmas snow globe and take home a photo memento (extra charge applies), see Father Christmas during his meet and greet sessions, make a Christmas tree decoration, watch a Snowy Owl indoor flying show and enjoy a free hot chocolate. Plus, as always, there’s stacks of indoor farm fun including the South East’s largest display collection of reptiles in the Reptile House, farmyard friends in the Animal Barn, ball blasting, sandpits and indoor play. Barleylands is in Billericay, CM11 2UD. Tel: 01268 532253 For further details visit www.barleylands.co.uk

Osborn & William

A delightful, traditional toy shop on Dedham High Street and was proudly named ‘Retailer of the Month’ by the independent Toy Guide. Visitors frequently exclaim that the shop is an ‘Aladdin’s Cave’ upon entering as it is jam packed full of toys, craft, children’s clothing and pocket money treats as well as a traditional sweet counter. Osborn & William only stocks imaginative, enchanting brands not typically found in the big stores such as Djeco, Frugi & Melissa & Doug to name a few. The shop also boasts a fantastic party bag service- children and parents can choose contents from the huge range of sweets and treats. For more information visit www.osborneandwilliam.co.uk

16 • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Poplar Miniature Railways

Celebrating their second season of operations at Easter, the Poplar Miniature Railway at Poplar Nurseries in Marks Tey has established itself as a leading attraction in the area. Over 100,000 people have taken the train around the gardens since 2014. Aimed firmly at families with young children, the railway provides real steam engines pulling trains through the lovely gardens at Poplar Nurseries, with plenty for the children to see on the journey. The three steam engines are great favourites with the children. Poppy, the cheeky blue engine is named after the garden centre, Yeo the large green tank engine is rather stately and dignified, whilst Alice, the large American engine, is strong and gentle. The other attractions at the gardens include a children’s playground, the Coffee Hut cafe and the splendid Thyme Out restaurant, which has a terrace overlooking the station. For the winter season the railway is open every weekend and school holiday and during children’s activities at the garden centre until 31st December, except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day. Christmas at Poplar is justifiably famous, with Santa and his Elves in residence and breathtaking Christmas displays. Children’s activities include Breakfast with Santa and late night shopping evenings when the railway operates after dark. The railway is excellent value for money for families, with a £2 fare and children under 4 travelling free when accompanied by an adult. The multiride cards are very popular with 10 ride cards for £10 and 20 ride cards for £18. The cards have no expiry date and can be used by anybody at any time. Go along and find out what all the fuss is about. For more details see our website www.poplarrailway.co.uk or follow us on facebook

Winter Fun At Fingringhoe

During Autumn and Winter at Fingringhoe Wick, there is an influx of birds and the trees go through their magical phase of colour change. After you have visited the reserve, you can warm up in our cosy tearoom and enjoy locally made treats. Join them for a drop-in fun day with a trail, orienteering and making bird feeders. Christmas crafts are for children of all ages to get creative with decorations, cards and more! They will be running their Starry Starry Night event in January, followed by an eventpacked half term in February! For more information and to book places on our events please phone the centre on 01206 729678.

Winter Wonderland Feature

Winter Wonderland & Ice Rink

Xmas 2015 is going to be very special in Colchester with the launch of the new Winter Wonderland & Ice Rink in the grounds of the historic Colchester Castle. With a 25m x 17.5m REAL ICE ice rink you’ll be able to skate around with your family and children with the Castle a matter of only meters away. When you’ve finished skating you’ll be able to enjoy one of the many food and drink stalls on offer, or head over to the fairground rides or perhaps take on a bit of Christmas shopping. On some days they are even going to be lucky enough to have Santa visiting. They have even got penguin skate aids for the small (or not so small!) children, allowing them to enjoy the event more. With the castle and park being so close to Colchester high street, you are able to combine your visit with a trip to the shops in town as well. Book in advance and they will even throw in a discount on parking in the town, allowing you to park for £2.65 per day. Whilst your booking on line why don’t you also take advantage of the great offer that they have in conjunction with Colchester Castle allowing you to have a look at Colchester’s history for almost half price? The event is open from 10am – 10pm Monday to Saturday and from 10am till 9pm on Sunday’s and Bank Holidays. Entry to the park is completely free and you only pay if you want to take part in one of the many activities on site. The only day they are closed between 27th November and 3rd January is Christmas Day. They have some fantastic offers for schools and groups to take part this year, making it as cost effective as possible to give you a great day out. Tickets are already going quickly and some sessions are already sold out so make sure that you pre book at www.colchestericerink.co.uk today to avoid disappointment.

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Winter Wonderland Feature

There’s no reason to hibernate this Winter!

Take a break this Winter and escape with the family at Ufford Park Woodbridge; it is the perfect choice destination to explore all that Suffolk has to offer, including the Suffolk heritage coastline of Aldeburgh and Southwold for those leisurely walks. Set amongst the trees in 120 acres, overlooking the Deben Valley and only 30 minutes away from the heritage coast, there is plenty to offer for families, or couples wanting a romantic retreat. Ufford Park Woodbridge is home to an award-winning “Top Winter” 18 hole, par 71 golf course, that is generally regarded as an enjoyable, yet stern test of golf. Furthermore, its excellent natural drainage ensures greens are playable all year round. You can ‘warm-up’ and relax in the luxury thermal suite spa that uses a series of heating and cooling experiences to guide your body through a sensory journey. The thermal suite consists of a hydro-pool, softsauna, aroma steam room, mineral grotto and foot baths. Why not combine the excitement of the festive season with an unforgettable Christmas break? Escape the seasonal blues with hearty food and great hospitality with one of their festive packages. Contact them on 0844 847 9403 for more details on our breaks or visit their website on www.uffordpark.co.uk

18 • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

The Essex Sunshine Coast

As we head into the cooler months, there is a lot to keep you occupied in and around the Essex Sunshine Coast covering Brightlingsea, Clacon-onSea, Dovercourt, Frinton-on-Sea, Harwich, Jaywick, Manningtree, Mistley, St Osyth and Walton-on-the-Naze. A variety of indoor and outdoor activities are on offer to keep the family entertained from firework displays, festive shows, spectacular pantomimes and events to Christmas tree festivals and seasonally themed markets! Craft shops, florists, jewellers, book shops, shoe shops, fashion shops, delicatessens and farmers markets, cafes and restaurants are in abundance in their local towns, with many offering a variety of superb local produce to enjoy. Accommodation ranges from holiday parks, Bed and Breakfasts, to boutique and luxury hotels, where prices remain competitive. With easy links by road, train, coach, ferry and plane and the centre of London only an hour or so away, it’s an easily accessible destination. You can park for free in the Council run car parks (except Holland Haven and Walton-on-the-Naze) time restrictions apply. For more information, call 01255 686633, email clactontic@tendringdc. gov.uk, or go to www.essex-sunshine-coast.org.uk or “Like them” at Essex Sunshine Coast on Facebook.

Winter Wonderland Feature

Festive Family Fun at Colchester Museums

Christmas is coming! The winter months are a fantastic time to make a visit to the three warm, inviting Colchester Museum sites as there is a whole host of festive, fun events that all the family will be able to enjoy. Colchester Castle, Hollytrees Museum and the Natural History Museum will bring history to life this Christmas, with a host of new special seasonal displays and activities to discover. The annual Colchester Castle Christmas Open Evening will take place on Wednesday 9 December, 3pm - 8.30pm. As a very exciting festive treat the Castle will be opening its doors for FREE! Go and soak up the Christmas atmosphere with Christmas carols, entertainment and an opportunity to meet Santa. You can also have the chance to capture the atmosphere with a professional festive photograph, set in their specially decorated Christmas chapel. Entry to the Castle is free; if you want to meet Santa and receive a gift there is a small £3.50 charge. Before Christmas there was Saturnalia—a Roman festival in honour of the God Saturn. It included many aspects of our modern Christmas including gift giving and feasting. At Colchester Castle from Friday 4 December until Sunday 3 January you can pick up a Saturnalia Trail from the front desk for 50p and follow the Saturns around the museum for your chance to win a Roman goody pack! There is also a host of festive fun at Hollytrees Museum this December. From Friday 4 December til Sunday 3 January you can follow the Victorian Christmas Trail: learn how the Victorians defined Christmas as we know it, and the traditions that inspired Charles Dickens’ ‘Christmas Carol’. Just pick up a trail from Hollytrees front desk for 50p and follow the holly branches around the museum for your chance to win a Victorian goody pack. You can keep up to date with all the latest news, facts and holiday activities from the museums service by following them on twitter: @ColMuseums, or liking their facebook page: www.facebook.com/ColchesterCastle. Check out the website for details about activities and how to make a visit: www.cimuseums.org.uk

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Winter Wonderland Feature

Christmas in Colchester 2015 They are all geared up in Colchester to make the most of this year’s festive season, with a great shopping experience, a real ice rink, magical markets and a fantastic programme of events for all the family. They have got great places to shop and get all those important presents: from big name stores to local independent traders. Enjoy shopping on the High Street (make sure you don’t miss Williams & Griffin), then head to the Lion Walk and Culver Square shopping centres to find those musthave brands like Apple and Superdry. And don’t forget to explore the narrow lanes and streets at the heart of Colchester to see what the independent boutiques and stores have to offer. Late night shopping is every Wednesday from the 2nd December so why not hit the shops and grab a bite to eat after work. Better still come and make a weekend of it: a great shopping experience, Winter Wonderland and Ice rink (27 Nov – 3 Jan), Colchester Castle Museum and the contemporary visual arts centre, Firstsite, are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to things to do and see. They have got some cracking events taking place throughout the festive season, from traditional panto at the Mercury Theatre, to carol concerts and a Christmas Market in the High Street (6 Dec). You can write to Santa in his magical post office in Lion Walk (from 29 Nov), visit him at Williams & Griffin’s (from 5 Dec), meet Frozen characters Anna and Elsa in Culver Square (5 Dec) and so much more! They have excellent train and bus links into the town centre but if you’re coming by car, why not use the Park & Ride, and the town centre has some great parking offers available to help you make the most of your time and your money. Just remember Colchester Borough Council has special Christmas parking deals: FREE parking after 3pm on Wednesdays from 2nd to 23rd December at all the surface car parks and money-saving offers available at other times too, including parking on Sundays for 50p all day at selected sites. So go along and celebrate with them this year in Colchester! www.visitcolchester.com

20 • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Winter Wonderland Feature Hey Party Starters, It’s almost that time again!

Join F&B’s this festive season £16.95 for 2 courses or £19.95 for 3 courses. The Family at Frankie’s are super excited and ready to organise your Christmas party. With the holidays fast approaching’, there’s no time like the present to get planning your Christmas party. As the party starter, you’ll receive £20 of vouchers redeemable at any Frankie & Benny’s* in the New Year, and they’ll even treat all the folks in your party to some special New Year’s discounts too! Just head on over to their website at www.frankieandbennys.com/christmas to check out the amazing Christmas menu and get booking your party today! They look forward to making you and your party feel a million bucks this Christmas. “So let us do the hard work, and we’ll leave the partying to you guys!” They hope to see you real soon!! *Excludes airport locations To book your party visit: www.frankieandbennys.com/christmas

Festive Family Fun At Barnplants Garden Centre Visit Barnplants Garden Centre this Christmas and take a trip on ‘Barnie the Train’ through their Magical Christmas Tree Forest. Look out for reindeer amongst the trees, and polar bears, penguins and other enchanting animals in the snow-filled winter wonderland. The adventure continues when Barnie drops his passengers off at the station as mischievous elves then guide visitors to Santa’s Grotto. Here the children can make a bag of Rudolph’s favourite food to take home, which can be scattered in the garden on Christmas Eve to guide him on his way! It’s then time to meet Santa himself in his Grotto where he will be giving all the children a present. There will be hundreds of Christmas trees to choose from, as well as a large range of Christmas decorations to make your home look truly festive! Christmas shopping is made easy with a wide range of gifts for everyone! You can then recharge your batteries at The Coffee Shop which is open 7 days a week, offering excellent breakfasts, lunches and delicious cakes. Make Christmas special! Barnie runs every Saturday and Sunday from 27th November to 20th December and also on 21st, 22nd & 23rd December. Booking essential Please call 01206 213380 for times and to book your magical ride! £10 per child, £5 per adult

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • 21

Diary Dates Use our comprehensive list of events to ensure your family time is packed full of fun this Winter. Tue 1 - Thur 24 Jingle All The Way

Giant Christmas Snow Globe*, Father Christmas, crafts, Snowy Owl flying show & free hot choc. 10am – 4pm (24th Dec closes 1pm). Adult: £11.50, child: £10.50, Under 2’s free. *Snow Globe £10/group inc. photo. Barleylands Farm Park, Billericay, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253. www.barleylands.co.uk

Wed 2 – Wed 23 Christmas Late Night Shopping Mon 30 (Nov) – Sun 3 Jan Winter Wonderland & Ice Rink

A real ice rink in the grounds of Colchester Castle. Age: 3yrs+. £11.50/adults; £4-£8.50/child. Upper Castle Park, Colchester, CO1 1UG. www.colchestericerink.co.uk BE

Mon 30 (Nov) – Wed 23 Dec Christmas Train Ride & Grotto

Journey through a Winter Wonderland looking for polar bears and penguins. Meet Santa in his Grotto (gift for all U14s). Every weekend plus 21 – 23 Dec. Adult: £5, Child: £10. Barnplants Garden Centre, Colchester, CO3 8ND. www.barnplants.co.uk 01206 213380 BE

Mon 30 (Nov) – Tue 22 Dec Santa’s Magical Post Office

Write to Santa in his magical Post Office. Every Sat & Sun 11am-4pm, plus 21 & 22 Dec. Red Lion Yard, High Street, Colchester, CO1 1DX. www.lionwalkshopping.com Free Event

KEY TO DIARY DATES:

BE = Booking Essential Free Event = No charge To the best of our knowledge this information is correct at the time of going to press. To avoid disappointment, please check with the event holder before setting off. If you are holding an event for families and would like to include it in our next issue, please email the details to: diarydates@kidaround.biz

22 • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Shops open until 9pm every Wednesday in December. Park your car for FREE after 3pm on these days. Colchester Town Centre. www.visitcolchester.com

Fri 4 - Sun 6 Magic of Christmas

Meet Santa and his elf, plus arts and craft workshop. 10am – 3pm. Santa & Story £6/ child; workshop £2/child. RHS Garden Hyde Hall, Chelmsford, CM3 8ET. 0845 265 8071 www.rhs.org.uk/hydehall BE

Fri 4 – Sun 6 Christmas Gift Fair

Seasonal handmade goods. Fri: 10am-9pm; Sat & Sun: 10am- 4pm. Town Hall, Saffron Walden www.visitsaffronwalden.gov.uk

Fri 4 Christmas Shopping

Stalls, children’s rides, dance troupes plus Father Christmas. 3 - 9pm. Brightlingsea Town Centre

Fri 4 Christmas Shopping

4.30-7.30pm. Lyons Hall Primary School, Braintree, CM7 9FH. Free Entry

Fri 4 Christmas Fayre

Meet Santa and more.... 3.30 – 5pm. Entry: adults £1, under 11’s free. Lexden Primary School, Colchester, CO3 9AS

Fri 4 Christmas Fayre

Crafts plus Father Christmas and his Elves. 3.30 -6pm. Earls Colne Primary School, CO6 2RH. Free Entry

Sat 5 & Sun 6, Sat 12 & Sun 13, Wed 16 – Thur 24 Christmas Special Event

Visit Father Christmas and his elves (each child receives a present). 11am – 5pm. £10/person, under 2’s free. Audley End Miniature Railway, Saffron Walden, CB11 4JB. 01799 542134. www.audley-end-railway.co.uk. BE

Sat 5 – Thur 24 Visit Father Christmas

Every weekend until Christmas Eve. Williams & Griffin, High Street, Colchester, CO1 1PN. www.williegee.com BE

Sat 5 & Sun 6, Sat 12 – Thur 24 Santa’s Grotto and Trains

Visit Santa and his elves. Children £8 (includes gift and baby Xmas tree); adults free. Normal rail fares apply. Poplar Miniature Railway, Poplar Nurseries, Marks Tey, CO61HR. www.poplarnurseries.co.uk

Sat 5 & Sun 6 A Victorian Christmas

Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of a Victorian Christmas. 10am-4pm. Audley End House, CB11 4JF. www.english-heritage.org.uk

Sat 5 Christmas Market

Santa’s Grotto, craft stalls, hot food, Merry Go Round, hamper raffle, games. Shops open on the High Street. Proceeds to Dedham Primary School. 3-6pm. Dedham High Street. Free Entry

Sat 5 Baby First Aid Course

Covering CPR, choking, high temps, Meningitis, bleeding, burns & allergies. Highwoods, Colchester, CO4. £24pp. Www.nct.org.uk/colchester BE

Sat 5 (Dec) and Sat 2, Sat 16 (Jan) Go-Tri event

For runners or cyclists who want to try a multi-sport event. Select your route and run alone or try and beat the rest. This is a very relaxed, informal event. 10am – 12pm. Hadleigh Park, SS7 2PP. www.hadleigh-park.co.uk Free Event

Sun 6, 13 & 20 Day Out with Thomas and Santa Includes rides, meet Santa (additional cost), storytelling time. 10am-4pm. Adult: £14, child (215yrs): £10, Under 2s free. East Anglian Railway Museum, Chappel and Wakes Colne Station, CO6 2DS. www.earm.co.uk/events/santa

Sun 6 Santa Fun Run

Fun Run for Colchester Hospitals Charity. 3km or 5km, suitable all ages and abilities running, jogging or walking. Adult: £15, child: £5. High Street, Colchester. www.cohoc.org.uk BE

Sun 6 Christmas Fair

Traditional and exotic hot food, presents and fun. Traditional ‘cake hurling’ by the Mayor. 10.30am5pm. High Street, Colchester, CO1. www.foodanddrinkfestivalsuk.co.uk Free Entry

Mon 7 Winter Woodland Play

Forest crafts, play and construction. Age: 0-5yrs. 10am – 12pm / 12.45 2.45pm. £8. Danbury Country Park, CM3 4AW. 01245 222350. BE

Wed 9 Castle Open Evening

A great festive treat as the castle opens this evening for FREE. Visit Santa’s grotto. 3 – 8.30pm. Colchester Castle, CO1 1UG www.cimuseums.org.uk Free Entry

Wed 9 Late Night Train and Shopping

Train rides in the dark. 4-8pm. Normal fares apply. Poplar Miniature Railway, Poplar Nurseries, Marks Tey, CO6 1HR. www.poplarrailway.co.uk

Wed 9 Creepy Crawlies

Explore, discover new things and finish with a wildlife themed story. For accompanied children under 5. 10:30am-12pm. £5/£8 for two siblings. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU 01206 738172 www.essexwt.org.uk BE

Thur 10 The Police Car

Rhyme, stories, trails and a craft activity. Age: 2-4 yrs. 11.30am 12.15pm. £2. Essex Police Museum, Chelmsford, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum BE

Sat 12 & Sun 13, Sat 19 & Sun 20 Ho Ho Hadleigh

Explore the Christmas trail, meet Father Christmas, see the nativity and feed reindeer! 10am – 3pm. £10/child (includes a present from Santa). Hadleigh Park, SS7 2PP. www.hadleigh-park.co.uk

Sat 12 & Sun 13 Christmas Tree Festival

100 decorated Christmas trees, live music, children’s quizzes, refreshments plus a Christmas shop. www.brightlingseachristmastreefestival.co.uk

Sat 12 & Sun 13 A Victorian Christmas

Meet Father Christmas, carols, festive tales, plus crafts. 10.30am – 4pm. £2/meet Father Christmas; £1/craft activity. Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich, IP4 2BE. 01473 433554 www.cimuseums.org.uk

Sat 12 Snow Globe with Heart Angels

Heart FM’s Angels bring their giant snow globe. Culver Square Shopping Centre, Colchester www. culversquare.co.uk Free Event

Sat 12 Winter Wonderland Fair

Visit Santa in his grotto; Christmas trail; crafts; stalls. 10:30am - 3pm. Entry is free; activities £6/child; £4 to see Santa. Abberton Reservoir, Colchester, CO2 OEU. BE

Sun 13 Reindeer Dash

Run in your free reindeer antlers and noses, plus meet Father Christmas. IAO St Helena Hospice. 9am-4pm. Child (3 – 13yrs): £5; Adult (14yrs+): £7.50. Colchester Castle Park, CO1 1UG. 01206 931468. www.sthelenahospice.org.uk/dash15

Sun 13 Victorian Christmas

Carol singing, traditional tales from the Victorian storyteller and meet Father Christmas. 10am-4pm. Free entry to the Mansion; small charges for optional craft activities and Father Christmas. Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich

Sun 13 Festive Wreath-Making

Gather materials in the gardens to make a wreath. Refreshments avail. Suitable all ages, must be accompanied. 12 – 4pm. Adult; £3, Under 16s free. Forty Hall Farm, EN2 9HA

Wed 16 Late Night Trains and Shopping

Train rides in the dark. 4-8pm. Normal fares apply. Poplar Miniature Railway, Poplar Nurseries, Marks Tey, CO6 1HR. www.poplarrailway.co.uk

Wed 16 Creepy Crawlies

Fri 18, Fri 29 (Jan) & Fri 26 (Feb) Fingringhoe Fledglings Monthly club for the under 5’s with a different wildlife theme, outdoor exploration, crafts, songs and stories. 10am-12pm. £5/ accompanied child/£3 siblings. Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre & Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678 BE

Sat 19 Santa’s Elves

Christmas quizzes, music, balloons and puppets. Culver Square Shopping Centre, Colchester www.culversquare.co.uk Free Event

Tue 22 Christmas Fun Day

Reserve trail, orienteering or get messy making bird feeders! 10.30am – 3pm. £10/family. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678.

Wed 23 Christmas Crafts

Make Christmas cards and decorations. 10am-12pm. £5/child, must be accompanied. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678.

Sun 27 – Thur 31 Train Rides

Train rides around the gardens. 12-3pm. Normal fares apply. Poplar Miniature Railway, Poplar Nurseries, Marks Tey, CO6 1HR. www.poplarrailway.co.uk

Tue 29 Star Wars

Star Wars theme, using the latest in Laser tag equipment, with Russian battle tanks, planes, helicopters and forts. 10am-1pm / 2-5pm. Laser Mayhem, Abridge, RM4 1AA. www.laser-mayhem.co.uk

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www.kidaround.biz • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • 23

Sat 23 Baby First Aid Course

Sun 21 Drop in Day

Sun 24 Iron Age Roundhouse

Sun 21 Iron Age Roundhouse

Free Event

Covering CPR, choking, high temps, Meningitis, bleeding, burns & allergies. Highwoods, Colchester, CO4. £24pp. www.nct.org.uk/colchester BE

Explore the replica Iron Age roundhouse and learn how ancestors lived 2000 years ago. 1 – 3.30pm. Hadleigh Park, SS7 2PP. www.hadleigh-park.co.uk

Sat 2 Go-Tri Event

Wed 3 Balance Bike

Give children a chance to test their balance both on and off their bike, (bikes not provided). 1pm – 3pm. Hadleigh Park, SS7 2PP. www.hadleigh-park.co.uk Free Event

Free Event

Sat 9 Starry Starry Night

Mon 11 Winter Woodland

Play Forest crafts, play and construction. Age: 0-5yrs. 10am – 12pm / 12.45 - 2.45pm. £8. Danbury Country Park, CM3 4AW. 01245 222350. BE

Thur 4 The Police Officer: Blues and 2s Rhyme, stories, trails and a craft activity. Age: 2-4 yrs. 10am10.45am/11.30am-12.15pm. £2. Essex Police Museum, Chelmsford, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum BE

Sun 14 Wild Art

Free Event

See what you can create using only natural materials. 2-4pm. £5/ child, must be accompanied. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678. BE

Wed 20 Creepy Crawlies

Sat 20 Baby First Aid Course

24 • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Sat 27 Man Trek

For dads, sons, uncles, grandads and cousins, IAO St Helena Hospice. 15.9 or 7.9 miles. Age: 11 – 18yrs+. 10am – 7pm. Adults (18yrs+): £15; Children (11 – 17yrs): £12. 01206 931468 www.sthelenahospice.org.uk/mantrek16 BE

Mon 15 - Fri 19 Mad Science Week

Wed 13 & Wed 3 Feb) Creepy Crawlies

Sat 16 Go-Tri Event

Explore the replica Iron Age roundhouse and learn how ancestors lived 2000 years ago. 1pm – 3.30pm. Hadleigh Park, SS7 2PP. www.hadleigh-park.co.uk

Half term week... things to do with the kids!

Space themed activities, crafts and experiments. 6-8pm. £5/ child, must be accompanied. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678. BE

Family nature trail, gem stone panning, crafts. 10am-4pm. £10/ family. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678.

Covering CPR, choking, high temps, Meningitis, bleeding, burns & allergies. Highwoods, Colchester, CO4. £24pp. www.nct.org.uk/colchester BE

Science fun and extra activities. 10am – 4pm. Adult: £11.50, child: £10.50, Under 2’s free. Barleylands Farm Park, Billericay, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253 www.barleylands.co.uk

Mon 15 – Fri 19 Victorian Games Galore!

From skittles to quoits, croquet to chess, play like a Victorian as you step back in time. 11am-4pm. Audley End House, CB11 4JF.

Mon 15 Portraits in Shadow

Turn your shadow into a silhouette portrait. Led by an experienced artist. Age: 4yrs+. 10.30am/11.30am/12.30pm/ 2pm/3pm. £3. Hollytrees Museum, Colchester. 01206 282941. cimuseums.org.uk BE

Mon 15 Fly By Kite

Design and make a kite to fly on the nature reserve. 10:30am12:30pm. Accompanied children of all ages welcome. £5. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, Colchester, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE

Mon 15 Stick At It

Stick games and fun. 1-3pm. All ages welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. £5. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE

Tue 16 & Sat 20 Go Ride

The British cycling initiative will develop the skills of children under 12. 9am – 12pm. £5. Hadleigh Park, SS7 2PP. www.hadleigh-park.co.uk

Tue 16 Den Building

Build a den, plus survival trail. Age: 2yrs+. 10am-12pm. £5/child, must be accompanied. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678

Tue 16 Bird Feeders

Make a bird feeder to take home. Suitable all ages, must be accompanied. 1.30-3.30pm. £1. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678

Tue 16 Chilly Creepy Crawlies

Search for creatures stirring after winter and make a collection of clay creatures. 10.30am-2pm. £5. Beth Chatto Gardens, Colchester, CO7 7DB. www.bethchatto.co.uk/events BE

Tue 16 Brambly Hedge – Snow Ball

Join the mice of Brambly Hedge for a special Snow Ball. Bring a picnic lunch. 10:30am-2pm. Accompanied children of all ages welcome. £5. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE

Tue 16 Mini Model Homes

Be inspired by the Victorian doll’s house and make your own room in miniature. 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 3pm. Hollytrees Museum, Colchester, CO1 1UG. 01206 282941. cimuseums.org.uk BE

Wed 17 Campfire Cooking

Cook on the campfire. 10am12pm. £5/child, must be accompanied. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678. BE

Wed 17 Abberton Adventurers

Holiday club for unaccompanied 8-12 yr olds. Activities including pond dipping, bug hunting and campfire cooking. 10:30am– 2.30pm. £12. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU 01206 738172 www.essexwt.org.uk

Wed 17 Bushcraft

Build dens and toast marshmallows. Age: 2yrs+. 1.30-3.30pm. £5/child, must be accompanied. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678. BE

Wed 17 Monkey Business

Celebrate the Chinese year of the Monkey and create a glove monkey. 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 3pm. £3. Natural History Museum, Colchester, CO1 1DN. 01206 282941cimuseums.org.uk BE

Thur 18 Pond Dipping

Plus pond nature trail. 1-3pm. Accompanied children of all ages welcome. £5. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, Colchester, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE

Fri 19 Mini-Bushcraft

Build a den in the woods and toast marshmallows. Age: 0-5yrs. 10am-12pm. £5/child, must be accompanied. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678. BE

Fri 19 Campfire Cooking

Cook on the campfire. 1.303.30pm. £5/child, must be accompanied. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678. BE

Fri 19 Wild and Wonderful

Orienteering trail plus build a den. 10.30am-3pm. £5/child, must be accompanied. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678.

Campfire and games. 10:30am-12:30pm. Accompanied children of all ages welcome. £5. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, Colchester, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE

Thur 18 Creature Survival Day

Fri 19 Treasure and Trails

Thur 18 Explorer Challenge

Winter survival tricks trail, food stash game and make a bird meal. 10.30am-2pm. £5. Beth Chatto Gardens, Colchester, CO7 7DB www.bethchatto.co.uk/events BE

Thur 18 Fantastic Fossils

Follow the treasure trail to find the winter nature reserve treasures. 1-3pm. Accompanied children of all ages welcome. £5. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, Colchester, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE

Get your own fossils identified, plus learn more about fossilised creatures. Drop-in 10-12pm and 2-4pm. Natural History Museum, Colchester, CO1 1DN cimuseums.org.uk Free Event

Thur 18 Minecraft Hack

Use a Raspberry Pi to Hack into Minecraft and use code to create anything you like! Age: 9yrs+. 10am-3pm. £25. Signals Media Arts Centre, Colchester, CO1 1HF. www.signals.org.uk

Thur 18 Winter Bugs

Winter bug hunting for all the family. 10:30am - 12:30pm. Accompanied children of all ages welcome. £5. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, Colchester, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • 25

FESTIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Chotto Desh

A magical Christmas dance show by top UK choreographer Akram Khan An adaptation of Akram Khan’s award-winning solo DESH; Chotto Desh is directed by Sue Buckmaster (artistic director of Theatre-Rites, UK) and Khan’s first stage production specially made for children. It premiered to a sell-out audience at the Jerwood DanceHouse on 23 October and is returning this Christmas for a longer run. Based on Khan’s internationally acclaimed solo DESH (2011), Chotto Desh is an adaptation of the original masterpiece, especially created for young audiences aged 7+ years and their families. “Amazing! I saw DESH before with my husband so was thrilled to be able to bring my daughter.” (Audience member, aged 43) “Excellent – even adults should take time to watch!” (Audience member, aged 26) Chotto Desh, meaning ‘small homeland’, draws on Khan’s unique quality of cross-cultural storytelling, creating a compelling tale of a young man’s dreams of becoming a dancer and memories from Britain to Bangladesh. Using a unique mix of dance, text, visuals and sound, Chotto Desh celebrates the resilience of the human spirit in the modern world and promises to be a magical, thrilling and touching dance theatre experience for families to enjoy together. “I love it! I especially liked it when he drew a face on his head.” (Audience member, aged 9) “I liked it when he did the backflip!” (Audience member, aged 7) For more information or to book your ticket call 01473 295230 or visit www.danceeast.co.uk

26 • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Theatre Fun At Harlow Playhouse

What four things do young children wish from Christmas? To meet Santa? To get a present? To have lots of fun? To sing lots of songs? At last, here’s a Christmas show that does it all!  Santa’s Dizzy Day is a fun packed experience for young audiences, making them laugh, sing, and asking to help Santa out of a tricky situation. The show also gives children the opportunity to give their letter to Santa in person. Specially designed paper for the letter will be available on the day or can be downloaded from www.imaginetheatre.co.uk/ santasdizzyday.aspx PLUS: As an added treat, all children get to meet Santa, receiving a special gift as they leave.  40 minutes duration, suitable for children up to the age of 6 years, families, pre-schools and nurseries. Children £11.50 (Includes present) Adult £8.50 (no present) Nursery/Pre-school £8.50 (no present). Groups £11.50 (includes present) Buy 10 get 1 free

FESTIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Aladdin – 12th December to 3rd January 2016

Boy band favourite Scott Robinson is to take the leading role in this year’s pantomime Aladdin. Scott, who has been a member of Five since it formed in 1997, will take his place alongside top performers from London’s West End. Join them on a thrilling carpet ride and the adventure of a lifetime this Christmas. There are excellent discounts for schools, family tickets and party bookings. Also on Wednesday 30th December 2015 the Princes Theatre will be holding a relaxed performance of Aladdin. A British Sign Language interpreter has been employed and the show has been adapted for those who may not be able to sit through a full-on performance. There will be no sudden loud noises, no excessive use of the smoke and haze machine, no pyrotechnics and no strobing or excessively flashing lights.

Please note that George Lepley will be performing as Aladdin in this performance in replacement of Scott Robinson.

The Owl Who Was Afraid Of The Dark

With a fantastic selection of children’s shows on offer, there is something for the whole family this winter at Chelmsford City Theatres! Returning for another popular season, Comedy Club 4 Kids will be taking place at Chelmsford’s Cramphorn Studio on Saturday 5 December and Saturday 16 January. This show provides cracking entertainment for everyone over six years old and under 400 years old (no vampires!), featuring some of the best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best… but without the rude bits! It’s just like a normal comedy club, but it’s on in the day, kids are allowed in, and therefore there is a higher than usual chance of heckles! Comedy Club 4 Kids provides a perfect idea for a children’s party! On Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 February, the charming story of The Owl Who Was Afraid Of The Dark, based on the bestselling children’s classic by Jill Tomlinson, will be coming to Chelmsford’s Civic Theatre. This fantastic family production focuses on Plop, a baby Barn Owl who ventures out of his nest and falls off a branch, resulting in the adventure of a lifetime as he journeys into the night-time world of campfires, fireworks, starry nights and moonlit adventures. Written especially for small people aged 3-7, this gentle, reassuring tale is brought to life with an irresistible blend of music, puppetry and storytelling. To book tickets for Comedy Club 4 Kids or The Owl Who Was Afraid Of The Dark, visit www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres or contact the Box Office on 01245 606505. Tickets for Comedy Club 4 Kids are £8.00, with premium seats at £2.00 extra per person. Tickets for The Owl Who Was Afraid Of The Dark are £10.00, £7.50 for concessions and £30.00 for a family ticket.

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • 27

FESTIVE ENTERTAINMENT BISHOPS STORTFORD

CLACTON

18th Feb

16th – 19th Dec

Count Duckula and the Jewels of Duckula

Join Duckula, Nanny and Igor in a race against time to solve clues and find the long lost treasure. 2pm. £12 (£10 concs) £40 Family. Rhodes Theatre 01279 710200

BRAINTREE 22nd Dec

Santa’s Christmas Cracker

Join the adventures of Dotty the Elf and Pompom the Penguin in a festive, interactive, song-filled visit to Santa’s home, that helps them discover the meaning of Christmas… before meeting Santa himself! Age: 2-7yrs. 10.30am/1.30pm. £9/£7. Arts Theatre 01376 556 354

20th Feb

The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark

Christmas Variety Show

Fun filled entertainment for all the family. 2pm/7pm. Various prices. West Cliff Theatre 01255 433344

31st Jan

Count Duckula and the Jewels of Duckula

Join Duckula, Nanny and Igor in a race against time to solve clues and find the long lost treasure. Age: 3-9yrs. 2pm. West Cliff Theatre 01255 433344

18th & 19th Feb

Mister Maker and the Shapes Live

Join the ultimate arts and craft hero Mister Maker, for his first ever live theatre tour. Various times/prices. Princes Theatre 01255 686633

COLCHESTER 18th Dec

Follow Plop’s adventures as he journeys into the night-time world of campfires, fireworks and moonlit adventures. Music, puppetry and storytelling. Age: 3-7yrs. 2.30pm. £8/£5. Arts Theatre 01376 556 354

Christmas Carol Concert

BURY ST EDMUNDS

A musical based on the hit 1992 film comedy. Various times/prices. Mercury Theatre 01206 573948

14th & 15th Feb Rapunzel

An exciting new musical version of the classic favourite. Age: 4yrs+. Various times/prices. Theatre Royal 01284 769505

CHELMSFORD 5th Dec

Comedy Club 4 Kids

The best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best… but without the rude bits! Age: 6yrs+. 2pm. £8. Cramphorn Theatre 01245 606505

11th - 13th Dec Santa in Love

What does Santa Claus secretly love best? Could it be presents? Could it be reindeer? Could it be snow? If you want to find out then join Santa and his friends in a fun-filled musical. Age: 2-5yrs. Various times. £9. Cramphorn Theatre 01245 606505

16th Jan

Comedy Club 4 Kids

The best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best… but without the rude bits! Age: 6yrs+. 2pm. £8. Cramphorn Theatre 01245 606505

13th & 14th Feb

The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark

Follow Plop’s adventures as he journeys into the night-time world of campfires, fireworks and moonlit adventures. Music, puppetry and storytelling. 11.30am/2.30pm. Various prices. Civic Theatre 01245 606505

A collection of readings, performances and carols courtesy of the Aladdin cast. All ages. 10.30am. Free Entry. Mercury Theatre 01206 573948

20th – 30th Jan Sister Act

17th & 18th Feb

Peppa Pig’s Surprise

It’s a lovely day and Peppa is playing outside with her friends. Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig have got a surprise for her and George – they can’t guess what it is, can you? Various times/prices. Regent Theatre 01473 433100

23rd – 27th Feb

The Sound of Music

A lavish new staging of the classic true story of the world-famous singing Von Trapp family. Various times/prices. Regent Theatre 01473 433100

LONDON 30th Nov – 3rd Jan The Snow Child

Once upon a time there was a man and his wife who longed for a child of their own. So one cold, white winter’s day, they sculpt a daughter out of snow and something magical and extraordinary happens. Age: 3yrs+. Various times/ prices. Unicorn Theatre 020 7645 0560

15th – 31st Jan Grass Explore the ground and all of its wriggling inhabitants in this quirky dance show for young children. Age: 4yrs+. Various times/prices. Unicorn Theatre 020 7645 0560

7th Feb

Pantomimes

The Teddy Bear’s Concert

A perfect introduction to the world of music, with musical stories and short pieces that will get your teddy dancing! Age: 5-11yrs. 2.30pm. £6/£3. Arts Centre 01206 500900

HARLOW 12th - 24th Dec

Santa’s Dizzy Day

A fun packed experience for a young audience, making them laugh, sing, and asking to help Santa out of a tricky situation. Age: 0-6yrs. Various times/prices. The Playhouse 01279 431945

19th – 21st Feb

The Railway Children

A stage adaptation of the classic novel about an Edwardian mother and her children who are uprooted to the countryside. Various times/prices. The Playhouse 01279 431945

IPSWICH 1st Dec – 2nd Jan The Paper Dolls

Adapted from the acclaimed book, this magical tale is brought to life through puppetry and music. Age: 3-7yrs. Various times/prices. New Wolsey Studio 01473 295900

5th – 9th Jan

Justin and the Argonauts

The ancient myth of a ship full of heroes on a quest for glory – full of jokes, songs and surreal silliness. Various times/prices. New Wolsey Studio 01473 295900

28 • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Find more listings online at www.kidaround.biz

BISHOPS STORTFORD

HARLOW

9th Dec - 2nd Jan

6th Dec – 3rd Jan

Jack and the Beanstalk

The story of a young boy who swapped his cow for a bag of magic beans and ended up with a lot more than he bargained for! Rhodes Theatre 01279 710200

CHELMSFORD 2nd Dec – 3rd Jan Aladdin

Meet Widow Twankey and the brave Aladdin and hapless Wishee Washee. Help Aladdin steal the heart of a beautiful princess. Various times/ prices. Civic Theatre. 01245 606505

CLACTON 12th Dec – 3rd Jan Aladdin

This year’s production promises dazzling costumes, fabulous scenery and some magical surprises. Various times/prices. Princes Theatre. 01255 686633

COLCHESTER 28th Nov – 10th Jan Aladdin

Go on the adventure of a lifetime where Aladdin dreams of marrying Princess Jasmine and providing a better life for his mother, Widow Twanky, and brother, Wishee Washee. Age: 3yrs+. Various times/prices. Mercury Theatre 01206 573948

Snow White and the Seven Dwarves

Snow White escapes the clutches of the Queen to discover seven extraordinary individuals, and make some very special friends along the way. Various times/prices. The Playhouse. 01279 431945

IPSWICH 26th Nov – 30th Jan

The Sword in the Stone

A brand new Rock And Roll panto. Various times/prices. The New Wolsey Theatre. 01473 295900

19th – 30th Dec Aladdin

Take a magical carpet ride to the Far East in a fun-packed family pantomime. Various times/prices. Regent Theatre 01473 433100

SUDBURY 18th Dec – 3rd Jan The Snow Queen

A panto of snow and magic. Various times. Adult: £10; Under 14s: £8. Quay Theatre. 01787 374745

BOOKS TO READ R EV IEWED BY LOCAL CHILDR EN

Red Box: Socks For Santa by Adam & Charlotte Guillain. Egmont Publishing. RRP £6.99 We love books that rhyme! Lydia also liked the ‘sparkly’ writing on the cover. The character George in the book has a quest to give Santa gifts but he uses the gifts to help some animal friends along the way. With bright bold illustrations & a lovely story - Lydia has requested this as her bedtime story every night for the last two weeks! I’d say it’s a winner. Reviewed by Lydia aged 3 & her Mummy.

Pink Box: Katy’s Pony Challenge by Victoria Eveleigh. Orion Children’s Books. RRP 5.99 The story is about the friendships of the main characters, and how they overcome their fears and gain the trust of the horses by competing in a horse agility show. I learnt about autism and how they find it hard to communicate with others. James has autism. I also learnt about horse agility and training horses ‘at liberty’ (the horse has no reins). I would recommend this book to horse lovers. Reviewed by Isobelle Field aged 8

Yellow Box: Explosive Adventures by Alexander McCall Smith. Bloomsbury. RRP £5.99 Explosive adventures is two stories in one book The first story is about three children who get stuck on the popcorn pirate ship where they come up with a great plan to escape the greedy pirates. The second story is about a boy called Billy who goes to the jungle to save the bubble gum trees with Mr Gopal who owns the greatest bubble gum factory. Both stories are exciting, fun and great to read Reviewed by Jake Curtis aged 8

Blue Box: Thunderbirds Are Go: Crosscut. Simon & Schuster £6.99 I really enjoyed reading this book with Jacob, with lots of brightly coloured pictures to look at and you could tell the story by following the pictures. There were lots of larger letters and numbers I could get Jacob to repeat back to me. The great addition with this book was the free 3D craft inside of Thunderbird 1, Jacob liked to reenact what the rocket was doing in the story with his real life model, this was also really sturdy and well made, so this was really a great extra interactive feature. Reviewed by Jacob Cloughton aged 6

Purple Box: Baby’s Very First Slide And See Farm by Fiona Watt. Usborne Books RRP £7.99 The book is colourful and attractive, and the quality of how it is made is very good throughout the whole book. There are lovely pictures or animals on each page, a sliding part and also cut out shapes to explore, adding a tactile element. This is a great learning tool, baby can learn animals and their sounds, and it helps develop motor skills and hand eye coordination. Overall I think this is a great little book for babies and my son definitely appears to enjoy it too. Reviewed by Jesse 7 months and his mum Tiffany

Orange Box: The Adventures of Miss Petitfour by Anne Michaels. Bloomsbury Children’s Book. £10.99 The fantastic stories of Miss Petitfour and her 16 cats in & around their village. From baking to dancing, she travels via a table clothe with her cats dangling behind her and stripy basket. My favourite chapter was ‘OOM’,it was all about ‘Festooning’{meaning clever decorating} as it was very easy to read, straight forward & I could imagine myself doing it. Some fun but tricky words which made the book more interesting... looking forward to more exciting adventures of Miss Petitfour & her crazy cats. Reviewed by Georgina Annalee Read aged 8

WIN WIN WIN - You can win a copy of one of these books, to enter visit: www.kidaround.biz. If your child would like• to review one•of our books www.kidaround.biz Winter 15/16 North Essex in • 29 future publications, please email suzanne.gardner@kidaround.biz

Sarah Dalton BAHons PGCE

Tuition for 7-11 year olds. DBS registered. Individually tailored sessions to develop confidence in English and maths. +10 years teaching experience including 5 years 1 to 1 in primary schools Call Sarah on 01206 825359/07710468871 sarah.s.dalton@btopenworld.com

BRAINTREE

Ace Tuition

Tuition for 5-16 year olds. Ofsted registered, professional and experienced teachers in English and Maths. 11 Plus, GCSE and SATs preparation. Daytime tuition also available. 01206 570700 acetuition@hotmail.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SAT SCI SEN

Kumon

Drop-in. Tuesdays 4.30pm-6.30pm, Saturdays 10am-12pm. Braintree Study Centre, St. Paul’s Parsonage. Mrs Kunjan Pandya 01376 339009 braintree@kumoncentre.co.uk ENG MAT

CLACTON

Ace Tuition

Tuition for 5-16 year olds. Ofsted registered, professional and experienced teachers in English and Maths. 11 Plus, GCSE and SATs preparation. Daytime tuition also available. 73a Station Road. Iain McKenzie 01255 688896 acetuition@hotmail.co.uk ENG ICT LAN MAT SAT SCI SEN

COLCHESTER

Ace Tuition

Tuition for 5-16 year olds. Ofsted registered, professional and experienced teachers in English and Maths. Daytime classes available for home-schooled students. Unit 3, Tollgate East, Stanway CO3 8RQ. Iain McKenzie 01206 571846 acetuition@hotmail.co.uk ENG ICT LAN MAT SAT SCI SEN

Anna Spurgeon BA Hons. PGCE

11+ tuition. Very high pass rate. Small group sessions. Fourteen years 11+ experience. Call Anna on 01206 738239/ 07500 339181 11+

Colchester Tutors

Excellent results achieved in 11+, Maths, English, reading catch-up, SATs and GCSE preparation. Individual and group lessons available. 1st group lesson free. Kate Zepeda M.A., M.Sc, 07952 645185 katezepeda@gmail.com 11+ ENG MAT SAT SCI SEN

First Class Learning

Tuition for children aged from 6-16 years in English, Maths and Science. Mason Rd (behind The Range), Lorraine McKenzie 01206 570700 colchester@firstclasslearning.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT

ENG MAT

Kumon

Drop-in sessions Tues, Weds, Fri 3:30pm6:30pm, Thurs 3:30pm-7:30pm and Sat 9:30am-12:30pm at Kumon Colchester North Study Centre, Highwoods Square, CO4 9SW. Ms Elaine Plumb. 01206 615458 www.kumon.co.uk/colchester-north ENG MAT

DOVERCOURT

Kumon

Drop in sessions Mondays 3.30-5.30pm and Thursdays 3.30-5.30pm at Kingsway Community Church, 475-479 Main Road, Dovercourt, Harwich, CO12 4HZ 01255 552 056 dovercourt@kumoncentre.co.uk ENG MAT

ESSEX

Fleet Tutors

Private tuition in your own home by qualified, experienced, CRB-checked tutors. Call 0845 6445452 www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

11+ ENG ICT LAN MAT MUS SAT SCI SEN

HARLOW

Kumon

Drop-in sessions Mondays and Wednesdays 4pm-6pm at Harlow Study Centre, St John’s Arts and Recreation Centre, St John’s Walk. Mrs Chizuru Cheung 01279 423345 Harlow@kumoncentre.co.uk ENG MAT

HARWICH

Ace Tuition

Community Centre, Barrack Lane. Iain McKenzie 01255 688896 acetuition@hotmail.co.uk ENG LAN MAT SCI

WITHAM

SchoolServe

Educational consultancy offering individual tuition at Centre or home by registered teachers. 01376 502561 or 07751 074616 or 01621 858636 www.schoolserve.info 11+ ENG ICT LAN MAT SAT SCI SEN

LISTINGS KEY TO SERVICES 11+

11 PLUS

ENG

ENGLISH

ICT

COMPUTING

LAN LANGUAGES MAT

MATHEMATICS

MUS

MUSIC

SAT

SATs

SCI

SCIENCE

SEN

SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS

30 • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

LEARNING & EDUCATION

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • 31

GET ACTIVE

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • 33

Keep the kids fit and healthy with some great clubs/activities. Don’t forget to say you found it here! DANCE

Award Winning Babyballet® Fun, imaginative and non-competitive classes to age 7. Colchester, Clacton, Wix and East Bergholt. Book online! www.babyballet.co.uk/Find+a+Class/ outlet/colchester/ T:01206 210 522 or 07960 642 467 colchester@babyballet. co.uk Jazz/Modern Dance Ages 6-12 on Mondays (4.50pm-5.50pm) and ages 3-5 on Tuesdays (4pm-4.45pm) at Leisure World Colchester. 01206 282000

The Company Performing Arts

Ballet, tap, modern, jazz & street classes for girls and boys of all ages and abilities. Classes in Colchester and Clacton. Examination and performance opportunities. 01206 241845

Ballet,tap and modern Tots to teens. kids street dance age 5-11. ISTD grades, shows, and festivals. Plus adult classes for fun and fitness. The Celtic Rose Centre and Rowhedge Village Hall, Colchester. 01206 514419 www.valentineschoolofdance.com Ballet The Company Performing Arts

Ballet and dance classes for girls and boys from age 2 upwards. Classes in Colchester and Clacton. ISTD & RAD examinations and shows. 01206 241845

Disco/Freestyle/Street Mini Street Dance A funky, fun

and energetic class with crazy dance moves for children aged 3-7 years. Wednesdays 4pm-4.45pm. Leisure World Colchester 01206 282000

Street Dance Age 8+ If you are

looking for the urban experience then look no further! Wednesdays 5pm-6pm. Leisure World Colchester 01206 282000

DRAMA/PERFORMING ARTS

Braintree Theatretrain Saturday

10am-1pm at Tabor High School. Theatretrain the company that loves to perform. Performing arts training for 6-18 year olds. Please call 01787 473150 or email braintree@theatretrain.co.uk. website www.theatretrain.co.uk

Colchester Theatretrain Sat 10am1pm at The Oak Tree Centre, Harwich Road. Theatretrain the company that loves to perform. Performing arts training for 6-18 year olds. Please call 01787 473150 or email colchester@theatretrain.co.uk. website www.theatretrain.co.uk

Kids Acting and Theatre Skills (KATS) Age 11-18. Established

performing theatre group. Saturday mornings, Headgate Theatre, Colchester. Sarah Young 01206 851796 or 07939 401640

Kids Acting and Theatre Skills (KATS) Monday evenings, 5-11yrs.

4.30pm-6pm. Myland Parish Halls, Mile End, Colchester. Saturday mornings, 6-12yrs. 9.30am-11am Headgate Theatre, Colchester. Sarah Young 01206 851796 or 07939 401640

Stagecoach (Braintree) Performing arts classes for 4-18 year olds. Saturdays 10am -1 pm, 6- 18 years, 10-15am11.45am, 4-6 years. Notley High School Braintree. www.stagecoach.co.uk/ braintree. Call Julie Berridge (Principal) 01376 743788 Stagecoach (Colchester) Performing arts classes for 4-18 year olds, on Saturdays at the Sixth Form College. Call Caroline Maxwell 0845 603 0880

Stagecoach (Saffron Walden)

Performing arts classes for 4-18 year olds. For full information please call Laura on 01799 588246.

Stagecoach (Sudbury) Performing

arts classes for 4-18 year olds. Thomas Gainsborough School, Gt Cornard. For full information please call Katie on 01473 601078

The Company Performing Arts

Drama, singing and dance classes on Saturdays in Clacton. NO termly commitment, just professional training and numerous performance opportunities. 01255 427376 www.thecompanyperformingarts.com

Theatricool After School Drama Club Drama classes to enhance and

nurture inherent talent. Fun-based activities for ages 7-11. Nayland: Mondays 3.30 – 4.30pm, Colchester: Wednesdays 4.00 – 5.30pm. www.theatricool.co.uk

Theatricool Performing Arts School Learn to act, sing, dance and

perform! Ages 4-16. Saturday mornings. Colchester Institute. 07736 713909 www.theatricool.co.uk

Theatricool Saturday Drama Club Act, sing, dance and perform!

Ages 5-10. Saturday mornings, 9.15 to 11.15am. Littlegarth School, Nayland. 07736 713909 www.theatricool.co.uk

34 • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

GYMNASTICS

Colchester School of Gymnastics

Pre-School weekdays : Baby gym (Under 2) 9:30-10:30am. Gym Fun (2-5 yrs) 9:00-11:00am. Gym Jam (up to 5 yrs ) Tues 10:45-11:15am. Afternoon Fun Wed 1:30 – 2:30 Free play, structure & music. 01206 844188

Gymnastics Free 1 hour gymnastics

RUGBY

Little Scrummers Rugby Exciting non-contact rugby classes for 2-6 year olds. Classes in Colchester, Stansted Mountfitchet and Cambridge. 07738 591232 www.littlescrummers.com

SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

trial for all age groups and abilities.Wed 5:30pm/6:30pm & Sat 9:00am/11:00am Gym Tots, birthday parties & holiday courses. Booking is essential. Email buba@eppingforestgymclub.com, 07767 167512 or visit www.eppingforestgymclub.com

Kids Camp Every school holiday. All-day, fully-supervised activity session for children in school years 1-6. Lunch included. 9am-3pm from £21.50 or 8am-5.30pm from £26.50. Leisure World Colchester 01206 282000

Iceni Gymnastics Club Saturday

camps, gymnastics, trampolining, roller skating, birthday parties and many sports Weekdays 17:00-22:00, Weekends 9am-5pm www.ssleisure.co.uk 01787 373132

10.00-10.45am Recreational (No age limit) Saturday 10.30-12.00 noon and Monday 6.00-7.30 pm Contact Annette 07773 891 563 Unit 1B, Moss Road, Stanway, Colchester, Essex CO3 0LE

School Age Gymnastic & Trampoline Weekdays from 4pm,

all day Saturday & Sunday mornings. Colchester School of Gymnastics 01206 844188 info@ colchestergymnastics.com www.colchestergymnastics.com

LASER/PAINTBALL Laser Mayhem Play real Call of Duty missions based around the computer game. Hide behind real Russian battle tanks, planes & helicopters using Laser Tag equipment. 01708 688517 www.laser-mayhem.co.uk

NETBALL

KATS Netball Club Netball at

HIghwoods for primary school girls every Saturday at 9.15am, senior girls every Wednesday at 6:30pm. Call Kim on 07788 887923

PLAY

Little Kingfishers Soft Play – climb, slide, run & explore the 4-tiered frame including ball pools and baby area. Parties available. Mon – Thur 10-17:30 Fri 10-18:30 weekends 10-16:00 www.ssleisure.co.uk 01787 375656

Space Kingdom for fun that’s out

of this world! Amazing climbing fun, football pitch, go-karts, parties and Moon Rock Cafe. Aged 0-12. 0845 521 2809 fun@spacekingdom.co.uk www.spacekingdom.co.uk

Sudbury Sports Centre Holiday day

Willow Tree Holiday Club Let your

kids enjoy a fun club during the school holidays. For more information call 01255 221473 www.willowtreechildrenscentre.co.uk

SWIMMING

Kingfisher Leisure Centre Swimming wet ‘n’ wild Saturdays 12-4pm/School holidays Mon-Fri 2-4pm. Swimming Lessons. Times & prices at www.ssleisure.co.uk 01787 375656

Small Group Swimming Lessons

Water-based teachers. All ages and abilities, only one lesson in the pool. At Colchester, Ramsey (Nr Harwich) and Tolleshunt Major. info@swim2swim.com 01206 212 603 www.swim2swim.com

GET ACTIVE

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • 35

Tinycool Dance and Drama Fun

classes for children aged 2-4 yrs. Mondays 2.10 – 3.15pm. Church Hall, Bear St, Nayland. 07736 713909 www.theatricool.co.uk

Tinycool Dance and Drama

Introduction to drama and movement for children aged 2-4 yrs. Wednesdays 10am -11.05am. Theatricool Studio, Colchester. www.theatricool.co.uk PRE/POST-NATAL EXERCISE

Aqua Bump Works on gentle fitness

BABY GYM

Colchester School of Gymnastics

Baby gym (Up to 2 yrs) Mon-Fri 9:3010:30am. Gym Fun (2-5 yrs) Mon-Fri 9:00-11:00am. Gym Jam music & action(up to 5 yrs ) Tues 10:45-11:15am. Junior Gym (3½ yrs-5yr) Various times. Afternoon Fun Wed 1:30-2:30 free play, structure & music HELP AND SUPPORT

Barnardos Children’s Centres

Offer baby groups in Colchester for friendship, support and fun as your baby grows and develops. For details call 01206 861950

Colchester and District NCT

If you need pre/post-natal support, from feeding advice to homebirth information, contact the national helpline on 0300 330 0700. For local activities call 0844 243 6093 or visit www.nct.org.uk/Colchester

Parenting Support Workshops

and parenting courses from Extra Support for Families for parents of under fives. Contact 01255 475001 extrasupportforfamilies@btconnect.com www.extrasupportforfamilies.co.uk MULTIPLE BIRTHS

Twins and Multiple Birth Club

For families with twins or multiple births and their siblings aged 0-5 years. Mon 10am-12 noon. Willow Tree Nursery and Children’s Centre. Call 01255 221473 01245 224790 / 07789 742412 MUSIC & MOVEMENT

Award Winning Babyballet®

From 6 months. Clacton, Wix, East Bergholt, Stanway, Lexden and Highwoods.3 week trial £15 Book online! www.babyballet.co.uk/ Find+a+Class/outlet/colchester/ 01206 210 522 or 07960 642 467 colchester@babyballet.co.uk

Pre-School ballet “Ballet-Teds” class from age 2 and a half, Colchester and Rowhedge venues. The Valentine School of Dance 01206 514419 www.valentineschoolofdance.com

Well Being FITNESS

RAISING SELF-ESTEEM

Boxercise

Building Confidence Course

Great for weight loss, coordination, balance and toning up - in fun classes. SD Martial Arts 01206 860008

Kingfisher Leisure Centre

Work out in the gym, enjoy a class, swim in the leisure pool and relax in the sauna and spa. A class for everyone: Zumba, Pilates, bodybalance, yoga and more. 01787 375656 www.ssleisure.co.uk

Leisure World Colchester

A comprehensive aerobic workout programme that offers over 50 classes a week.For more information 01206 282000 www.colchesterleisureworld.co.uk

Life Skills courses to help raise parents’ self esteem. Contact Extra Support for Families 01255 475001 extrasupportforfamilies@btconnect. com www.extrasupportforfamilies.co.uk

WORK OPPORTUNITIES Forever Living Natural Aloe Vera Products. Weight management, beauty, wellness, health, fitness. Are you looking for more income and flexible work around your children? Call for info Claire Kettle, Forever Living Independent Distributor 07746 044366.

36 • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

The Company Performing Arts

A fun introduction to dance, drama and song in specially-designed tots and pre-syllabus classes. Fully-qualified staff encourage children’s co-ordination, confidence, fitness and discipline. From 2 years upwards. 01206 241845 PLAY

Friday Fives Stories and nursery

rhymes for fives and under. £3 per child. Chelmsford Museum. Phone 01245 605700 for details

Little Kingfishers Play Centre Play, activities & parties for children up to 10 years. Open 7 days a week. 01787 375656 www.littlekingfishers.co.uk Space Kingdom For fun that’s out of

this world! Amazing baby & toddler play area, parties & daily activities. The perfect place to meet new friends. Visits from Jo Jingles.0845 521 2809 www.spacekingdom.co.uk fun@spacekingdom.co.uk

and gentle toning. Wednesday 8pm8.40pm. Leisure World Colchester 01206 282000 READING

Bookstart

Sing some rhymes and look at books, and meet other babies and their grown-ups at your local library. www.essex.gov.uk/libraries RUGBY

Little Scrummers Rugby

Exciting tag rugby for 2-6 year olds. Essex & Cambridgeshire. Make friends and learn new skills! 07738 591232 www.littlescrummers.com SWIMMING

Baby Swimming Lessons At

Colchester, Ramsey (Nr Harwich), Tolleshunt Major. Only one lesson in the pool; water-based teachers. 01206 212603, info@swim2swim.com, www.swim2swim.com

Learn To Swim at Kingfisher Leisure Centre & Hadleigh Pool & Leisure. The start of your child’s aquatic journey Kingfisher: 01787 375656 Hadleigh P& L: 01473 823470 www.ssleisure.co.uk

Invitation

To all Parents/Carers, Courses and workshops from Extra – Support for Families. • Fully funded Excellent refreshments • • Childcare provided ‘All the staff have gone out of their way to make sure I have felt welcomed and supported. I have learnt invaluable skills that have enabled me to cope with the challenges that having a young family with additional needs brings. I have developed close friendships, which has given me a social life. I now have confidence to deal with the challenges I face on a day to day basis and can ensure my family have the safe, loving environment they deserve. Thank you Extra!’ (parent comment). Visit: www.extrasupportforfamilies.co.uk Call: 01255 475001 Follow them on Twitter; @Extra2009

BEAUTY, BUMP & BABY Little Scrummers Tag Rugby: Fantastic Family Fun!

Did you know just how much family fun there is to be had when your active 2-6yr old joins Little Scrummers Rugby Club? You will soon see that the exciting lessons given outdoors on Saturday mornings can be made into fun family activities whenever and wherever you want! You can practice what has been taught in your garden, at the park, at the beach, in fact anywhere there is an open space. It really does involve the whole family as tag-rugby is a safe non-contact form of the game rugby, and anyone can play it at any age, so come on and have a go! There are many other advantages to joining Little Scrummers Rugby: at the weekly 45-60 minute sessions, the children gain confidence, improve their gross motor skills, communication and behaviour at these fun filled sessions led by fully qualified coaches who play and or coach at their own local rugby clubs. Learning sport at an early age is essential and it is proven that there is a positive educational impact as the children learn to work as a team, improve their gross motor skills and it even gets them ready to concentrate and take instructions at school. So if you have little ones who have loads of energy, who love running around and mixing with other children then sign up for a FREE TRIAL SESSION! The club which has a great community feel is growing month on month. Currently it has 10 locations across Herts, Essex & Cambs and it has just launched its franchise programme too! Check out the website: www.littlescrummers.com

www.kidaround.biz • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • 37

CHILDCARE ALRESFORD Orchard Cottage Montessori Nursery Ltd 120 Wivenhoe Road 01206 825607 Dr Natasha Mansfield o.c.m@btconnect.com

sT * ARDLEIGH Ardleigh Preschool

Village Hall, Station Road 07092 846384 Jenny Schofield www.ardleighpreschool.co.uk

Orchard Barns Babies Redbury Barn Colchester Road 01206 231195 Susan Moss-Thomas

Orchard Barns Private Kindergarten Badliss Hall 01206 231195 Susan Moss-Thomas

BRADFIELD Little Pumpkins Pre-school CIC The Orchards Bradfield Primary School Heath Road CO11 2UZ 01255 870768 Michelle Dent

sT*

BRAINTREE The Colourwheel Montessori Nursery Denton Crescent Black Notley 01376 339139 Miss Sam Cottrill colourwheel@btconnect.com

CLACTON-ON-SEA Chestnut Grove Kindergarten

The School House 5 Pathfieds Road 01255 429029 Denise Hawke office@chestnutgrovekindergarten.co.uk www.nurseryclacton.co.uk

sT*ylH

BOCKING A.G.N.E.S Day Nursery

Little Pals Children’s Centre Nursery

Bocking United Reformed Church Church Street 07804 700557 Louise Blake www.agnesdaynursery.net agnesdaynursery@yahoo.co.uk

Clacton Coastal Academy Jaywick Lane 01255 687151 Gillian Smith

sT*yH

Willow Tree Day Nursery

Chingford Avenue 01255 221473 Brenda Dearsley www.willowtreechildrenscentre.co.uk

sT*yH

COLCHESTER Colchester High School Nursery

Wellesley Road 01206 573389 Kate Cryne kate.cryne@colchesterhighschool.co.uk www.colchesterhighschool.co.uk

T*ly Kiddi Caru

Hythe Quay 01206 871700 colchester@kiddicaru.com www.kiddicaru.com

38 • Winter 15/16 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Day Nursery

Wivenhoe Park, CO4 3SQ 01206 873224 Miss Pippa Dines nursery@essex.ac.uk www.essex.ac.uk/nursery

Oaklea Montessori CIC

Wimpole Road Methodist Church Wimpole Road CO1 2DL 01206 657882 Caroline Allen admin@oakleamontessori.co.uk

sT*y

Oxford House School

2-4 Lexden Road 01206 576686 Mrs Harding info@oxfordhouseschool.net www.oxfordhouseschool.net

Saint James’ Preschool

Saint James’ Primary School Guildford Road 07765 029987 Charlotte or Geraldine. www.stjamespreschool.org.uk stjamespreschool@outlook.com

St Mary’s Kindergarten 247 London Road 01206 216420 Emma Stanhope

T*ly

St Stephen’s Preschool

St Stephen’s Church Centre Canterbury Road 07534 911918/01206 519034 Katie www.ststephenspreschool.org.uk

EARLS COLNE Earls Colne Primary School and Nursery

Park Lane 01787 222205 Melanie Vine www.earlscolne.essex.sch.uk

GREAT HORKESLEY Holmwood House Nursery 151 Coach Road 01206 273827 Katy Platten/Claire Angel

sT*

Tiddlywinks Preschool 22A Coach Road Great Horkesley CO6 4AT 01206 272669 Helen Taylor

HARLOW Kiddi Caru

Kiln Lane Church Langley 01279 626111 harlow@kiddicaru.com www.kiddicaru.com

IPSWICH Oakland Hall Day Nursery Oakland Hall Hadleigh Road Sproughton 0845 838 8955 info@oaklandhall.co.uk

KELVEDON Kelvedon and Feering Preschool Kelvedon St Mary’s C of E Primary School Docwra Road 07922 592183 www.kfpreschool.org

LAWFORD Busy Bees Kindergarten

Highfields School Colchester Road 01206 396291 Tina Lawrence/Maria Varnals busybeeskindergarten@gmail.com www.busybeeskindergarten.co.uk

sTy

Little Pumpkins Pre-School CIC The Ling Hall Lawford C of E Primary School Long Road, CO11 2EF 01206 391412 Katie Turner

sT*

CHILDCARE Oaklea Montessori CIC

WIVENHOE Wivenhoe Montessori

Ogilvie Hall Wignall Street 07765 998919 Catherine Theodosius www.oakleamontessori.co.uk

The Pavilion King George V Playing Field 01206 827126 Joahnne Cousins www.wivenhoemontessori.co.uk

STRATFORD ST MARY abc Preschool

Strickmere CO7 6YG 01206 322466 Sarah Simmons abcpreschool@tesco.net www.abcpreschoolstratford.co.uk

Key to Childcare Provider Icons use these symbols to discover the type of care offered by each setting

s DAY CARE

T SESSIONAL CARE

Orchard Barns Kindergarten

y AFTER SCHOOL CLUB

Higham Road 01206 323093 Shelley Ward

h CHILDMINDER

sT*ly

l BREAKFAST CLUB

TIPTREE ABC Day Nursery

* HOLIDAY CLUB H CRECHE

The Brambles 22 Grove Road 01621 810772 Kirstin or Sally

sT*ly WHITE COLNE Pippins Montessori Kindergarten White’s Farm Bures Road 01787 228567 Lynne Dear

sT*

Free childcare for two year olds

Early learning at a nursery, pre-school, school or childminder gives children a positive start to life and their early development. They can: • Have fun • Learn through play • Make new friends • Experience new activities • Get a good start to early education If your family receives free school meals or certain benefits including income support or income based job seeker’s allowance you can claim 15 hours per week of free childcare for your two year old.

Children who have special educational needs, are looked after by a local council, or have left care through adoption or a special guardianship order are also entitled. To find out more talk to the Family Information Service on 0800 055 6874. You can also look for childcare online at www.essex.gov.uk/earlyyears