families suffolk may - june 2015 issue 23

13
GET READY FOR 28 MAY - 6 JUNE FIND OUT MORE www.familiessuffolk.co.uk /FamiliesSuffolk @familiessuffolk FREE SUFFOLK The local magazine containing useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds ISSUE 23 • MAY / JUNE 2015 Suffolk Show Suffolk Baby & Toddler Show Birthday Party Feature 27th & 28th May

Upload: familiesonline-and-magazines-in-print

Post on 21-Jul-2016

221 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

DESCRIPTION

The free local magazine containing useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: Families Suffolk May - June 2015 Issue 23

www.familiessuffolk.co.uk 01473 788546/FamiliesSuffolk@familiessuffolk

GET READY FOR

28 MAY - 6 JUNE

FIND OUT MORE www.familiessuffolk.co.uk /FamiliesSuffolk @familiessuffolk

FREE

SUFFOLK

The local magazine containing useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds

ISSUE 23 • MAY / JUNE 2015

Suffolk Show Suffolk Baby & Toddler ShowBirthday Party Feature

27th & 28th May

Page 2: Families Suffolk May - June 2015 Issue 23

3www.familiessuffolk.co.uk 01473 788546/FamiliesSuffolk@familiessuffolk

Spring is in the air...Well it certainly feels like spring has finally sprung, and we hope you have been enjoying the lovely sunny weather. Evie, Jack & Thomas definitely enjoyed a fun afternoon at the local park recently. With Spring in the air, it must be that time of year again when we get to celebrate the fantastic county we live in at the annual Suffolk Show. We thank this year’s organisers for our cover image taken at last year’s show, and in this issue we have also included a useful guide to the ‘Top things you must do at the year’s show’ (p21). As always we’ve tried to pack in as much local news, views and information to help you and your family.

You can also stay up to date with local news stories and what’s on, via our website: www.familiessuffolk.co.uk.

Best Wishes

WElcoME locAl nEWSSponsored by

Sponsored by Kidzone Creché

nExT iSSuE: July / August 2015

circulATion: 17,000 copies of Families Suffolk are available through nurseries, schools,

libraries, selected retail outlets and various other distribution points throughout Suffolk. If

you would like copies for your organisation please

CoNtACt US.

EdiToriAl conTEnT: [email protected] 07951 946736

SAlES And MArkETing: [email protected] 01473 788546

EvEnTS And WhAT’S on: [email protected]

DESIgN & EDITINg: Designed In house supported by Squircle Creative: 07765 241749

[email protected]

covEr iMAgE: Supplied by The Suffolk Show

Families Suffolk is part of the Families Group established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license. We take every care preparing the magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers, the accuracy of the contents nor for any correspondences.

Printed in the uk by the Magazine Printing Company using only paper from FSC /

PEFC suppliers www.agprint.co.uk

May - June 20152

on Sunday 7th June, hundreds of farms across the country will be opening their gates to welcome the public for the 10th open Farm Sunday. This annual event

organised by lEAF (linking Environment And Farming), offers a great way for people to find out more about where their food comes from, talk to the farmers who produce it and get up close and personal with the countryside. A visit to a farm on open Farm Sunday is guaranteed to be packed with a host of different experiences. To find out which Suffolk farms are taking part visit www.farmsunday.org.

Quayside Nursery’s Big LunchSunday 7th June

The one Big diversity lunch is being held at Quayside nursery on Sunday 7th June, 10-3pm. The Big lunch is an event held in partnership with the Eden project to help bring communities together. Quayside nursery holds a Big lunch on the 1st Sunday of June each year with a twist, calling it the Big diversity lunch, welcoming everyone.

They aim to have as many different foods from around the world as well as entertainment and stalls.Quayside nursery in ipswich belongs to Bright horizons family solutions which raises money for the foundation which supports local family units.

if you would like a stall, can provide a raffle prize or can provide some free entertainment (as well as promoting your act/items) then please contact [email protected]

Stacey x

Also available from Jumpking

To order and for more fantastic offers visit

www.jumpking.eu or call 0344 800 4060

Bounce into Summer

Trampolines

Jumpking.eu not only have a fantastic range of trampolines, but did you know they supply

Bouncy Castles too, for those who like less of a permanent fix ture in their garden!

Summer is on i t’s way, so now is the time to invest in some great outdoor toys to keep the

children occupied over the holidays!

Great for play dates, outdoor and BBQ fun. Bouncy Castles are fantastic for al l ages!

Contents3 local news4 clubs & classes5 our community6 Family health 7 The Suffolk Baby & Toddler Show8 - 9 Baby & Toddler Talk10 - 13 Party Feature14 Family Matters15 reviews16 Most Active county17 health & Wellbeing18 - 19 Be inspired20 Parents Place / crafty capers21 Suffolk Show22 - 23 What’s on

WelcomeMeet a Farmer

Wig Wednesday

Happy Totshappy Tots pre-school is based in East ipswich and has been a successful pre-school since June 1981. The pre-school is run by a voluntary committee in accordance with the children Act 2006. They use the hall at landseer road Methodist church, and have their own secure entrance and outside garden play area.

The pre-school provides local families with childcare for children aged between 2 and 5 years. The playgroup has approximately 70 children attending, with morning and afternoon sessions of 35 children aged between 2 and 5 years. We are able to access 2,3 & 4 year old funding through local government and offer competitive & affordable prices in childcare. To find out more visit: www.happytotspreschool.co.uk.

Toddle TalkExciting new things have been happening at Toddle Talk, Toddle Talk is a baby signing class designed for hearing babies/ toddlers and their parent/ carer. Toddle Talk was founded and created by Ann lay in 2009 in ipswich and has spread in popularity and number of classes available, having taught well over 300 families and seen the benefits achieved by this proven class structure. classes start from 5 months old, when a baby generally starts to develop their motor (hand) skills, such as waving and clapping and teach right up to 3 years old. By learning how to sign key words it enables a baby to communicate before and during speech development. They AlWAYS say the word with the sign and therefore encourage the baby to do the same as they start to speak or babble. They make the classes fun to keep the babies interested and engaged by using songs and sensory items. Each week has a set theme of signs and each term is a mix of fun and useful signs.What are the Benefits of Toddle Talk? Baby Signing can encourage the development of a baby’s speech, communication skills, literacy and numeracy! And also by using songs and sensory learning they provide a wide range of sensory experiences, helping to develop strong brain pathways, rhythm and co ordination. By providing a way to communicate before and during speech development, Toddle Talk can help baby to pronounce or learn the word, encourage more conversation between mum and baby, and help prevent frustration of not being understood or how to deal with those ‘Big’ feelings such as excitement, anger or sadness. This all helps strengthen the parental bond and encourage babies’ social skills at a time when they are getting interested in the world around them, testing the boundaries and your patience! do you fancy trying a Toddle Talk baby signing class with your tot? You can try your first class free anytime in May! visit: www.ToddleTalk.info or email: [email protected].

20 May 2015 is Wig Wednesday, one big day when schools, clubs and businesses across the uk will unite to raise funds for children and young people with cancer.

Why getting your wig on makes a difference

childhood cancer is thankfully quite rare but every day, 10 children and young people in the uk are diagnosed with cancer. Treatment can last up to three years and frequently leads to children and young people losing their hair. Shockingly, more than one in three children will experience bullying or teasing from their peers because of their cancer diagnosis and treatment. By wearing a wig, your school club can show solidarity for every child or young person with cancer.

How to take part in Wig Wednesday

getting involved in Wig Wednesday is so easy. Sign up at www.clicsargent.org.uk/wigwednesday or email [email protected] and we’ll send you a free event pack full of ideas and info. it would be amazing if you could join our wig revolution this May to make a real difference to the lives of children and young people with cancer in the uk.

Page 3: Families Suffolk May - June 2015 Issue 23

4 5www.familiessuffolk.co.uk 01473 788546/FamiliesSuffolk@familiessuffolkMay - June 2015

Sponsored bySponsored by Learn Play GrowcluBS & clASSES Sponsored by Ipswich Building Society

Ipswich Gymnastics is your child starting school or nursery in the next year or so? Why not get them used to being part of a structured class and interacting with other children in a fun and safe environment? our little Teddy Bear and Teddy Bear classes are extremely popular for children aged 2 to full time school age to help with movement, core strength and learning gymnastic skills as well as preparing them for being part of a class. All courses operate around an award scheme, which gives the classes direction and purpose. The cost of an 8 week course is £48.80, with children being tested on the skills they have learnt during the course in week 7, and receiving a certificate in week 8 if they pass. in order to get your child onto a course, contact our reception desk on 01473 433676 or email [email protected]. don’t forget… We also have structured courses for older children from full time school age as well as casual sessions for Parent and Toddler, Youth night and Free running as well as Adult night sessions every week! We also offer children’s gymnastic Parties most weekends throughout the year. Please see our website www.gymnasticsinipswich.co.uk for times and prices or contact reception for more information.

Wise Hippo You and your family deserve to have the birth that is right for you and one that leaves you with a feeling of confidence, empowerment and satisfaction. To help you achieve this birthing experience we will introduce you to our unique fully comprehensive hypnobirthing method that will provide you with confidence, inner calm and empowerment. The Wise hippo Birthing Programme – A hypnobirthing course that prepares you with all the tools and techniques you need to stay calm, relaxed and in control during labour and the birth of your baby. The Wise hippo Birthing Programme is a complete 10 hour programme that runs as 4 x 2.5 hour classes. A workbook and 5 x mp3s are provided to you to support your practice at home. Mothers who use our method report greater satisfaction from their pregnancy and unique birth experience. They are far less likely to describe the birth of their baby as painful or traumatic and are less likely to request an epidural or other medical pain relief. We believe our unique Ante natal classes will prepare you not only in pregnancy and your birth, but also as you adjust to life as a new family! To find out more visit: www.empoweringbirthing.co.uk.

iSwim iSwim are now offering some great new adult and child classes at their clopton pool, with lessons now available every day of the week. With a maximum of 6 children to each class with two ASA teachers the classes are relaxed and enjoyable. The lessons are great fun and a lovely way to make new friends and learn a valuable life skill. For the older pre school children iSwim also have lots of classes that parents can fit around nursery, nap times and lunch times, so are very flexible! You can also go along with a group of friends and they will start a new class just for you. ncT groups welcome from any age. Weekend classes are really good for the ‘Mums’ that deserve a lay in..dads are welcome in the water and they promise to sing loudly so you won’t have to! iSwim have a large family friendly waiting area with tea and coffee facilities while you wait and a free car park. The pool is heated to between 31-32 degrees so no need for a wet suit! come along for a free trial! call: 01473 277085 or send a message via their website www.iswim.biz.

Sponsored by

An overview of some of the best local clubs & classes available for the whole family to enjoy...

our coMMuniTY

Papworth TrustLocal disability charity Papworth Trust provides a whole range of services across Suffolk. The Trust’s Corporate Partnership Fundraiser Jo Revitt tells us more about its work.here in Suffolk, we support disabled and older people to live their lives to the full in a number of ways. in ipswich, our centres on Foundation Street and Museum Street offer a range of learning and leisure activities for disabled people, such as cooking and gardening. These can lead to new life skills and qualifications. We run youth clubs for young disabled people who need extra support. They can get together to enjoy activities such as drama and music. We support young people to help them realise their full potential and develop life skills to give them the confidence they need.

Free Information & Adviceour information and advice service is free for disabled people of all ages, their families and carers living in Suffolk. We offer advice and guidance on a range of disability related issues, from accessibility to education. We also help people to find and keep jobs that are right for them. our employment offices help long-term unemployed people get back to work.

our social enterprise in Bury St Edmunds, Papworth Trust Workwise, provides work-based training to adults with mental ill health.

Apprenticeship Schemein ipswich, our apprenticeship scheme (run in partnership with ipswich Borough council) helps 18-24 year old’s to get a foot on the career ladder and find apprenticeships in areas such as iT and marketing. There are many benefits of supporting a local charity such as Papworth Trust. it’s a way of giving something back to the local community - in this case supporting disabled people and their families - and making a real difference to people’s lives. We rely on the support of individuals and businesses in the local community to help us to be able to carry on providing our essential services. And however you choose to support us, through fundraising or volunteering, we are here to help you every step of the way.

If you’d like to find out more, please give me a call on 07792 569851 or email [email protected]

Museum of East Anglian Life

With 17 splendidly restored buildings to explore, including a working watermill and victorian Tin Tabernacle. They’ve got animals to visit, family trails that take you around the museum and play areas for children to enjoy, you’ll never be short of something to do.

Events include the annual Steam and crafts Weekend, Bonfire night celebrations and activities in the school holidays such as the summer ‘Mud, Bugs and Baking.’ little ones can enjoy our weekly ‘Toddler Time’ featuring activities such as the Welly Walk, Toddler Yoga and Tadpole Tunes.

The Museum of East Anglian Life is a 75 acre, open-air Museum located in the heart of Stowmarket. With historic buildings, green open space and a programme packed with events and activities for families to enjoy.

2015 sees the launch of the ‘My Museum’ photography competition for Museum visitors to enter during the 2015 season. using 75 acres of stunning Suffolk countryside, heritage landscape and wildlife as inspiration, photographers will capture how they see the museum in an image that represents one of the competition categories:

• Wildlife• landscape• Architecture • People • heritage.

For budding photographers, the Young Photographer categories (0-11 and 12-18), will allow for younger visitors to also take part in a competition that all the family can enjoy.

They will also be offering Families Suffolk readers a special 10% discount when you book your tickets online using the discount code FAMILIESSUFFoLK10 or when you bring in a copy of their advert (p23).Think you’ll need more than one visit? Why not purchase a Membership and go back as many times as you need.A Museum Membership entitles visitors to unlimited entry during open hours, free entry to all daytime events and free entry to the Museum’s Toddler Time sessions. Families can enjoy the benefits of open, safe, green space where they can walk, play and explore together. Meet the animals, discover nature and learn something new with every visit.

‘My Museum’ Photography Competition (Please visit www.familiessuffolk.co.uk for more information)

The Creation Station looking for something different for your little ones next birthday party? if they love painting, making, sticking & glitter then a creation Station ‘Arty Party’ may be your perfect solution! Party packages can be tailored to suit your theme & budget and are suitable for children from 1-11 years. From treasure boxes to t-shirts, you can choose from a wide range of high quality products for the birthday girl or boy and their friends to decorate. Then choose a second activity, such as clay modelling. it’s lots of fun and the creations are a lovely, memorable way to celebrate a birthday. The creation Station bring all the materials & overalls and prices include invites and party bags, they will set up & clear away, so no mess or stress for you! For 2-11 year olds, prices start from £10 per child for a 1 hour party which includes 2 activities. For more information please contact Tracey Pennell on 01473 206801 or [email protected]

Page 4: Families Suffolk May - June 2015 Issue 23

6 7www.familiessuffolk.co.uk 01473 788546/FamiliesSuffolk@familiessuffolk

Eye drops containing antihistamine, these eye drops help to relieve itchy and watering eyes.

Some simple solutions As well as over the counter remedies, there are a number of simple precautions you can take whilst out and about this summer. • Plants release their pollen early in the morning, and levels peak

in early evening, so if you suffer from hay fever it is best to avoid being outdoors at those times if possible.

• Wear wrap-around sunglasses to protect your eyes and keep windows closed at home and in the car, especially when the pollen count is high.

• Shower before going to bed to remove any pollen from your skin and hair.

if you have hay fever symptoms all year round, you may have Allergic rhinitis – an allergy to house dust mites, mould spores or pet hair. For more advice pop in to your local East of England co-op Pharmacy.

May - June 2015

FAMilY hEAlTh

The Suffolk Baby & Toddler ShowWe are so excited to be supporting the Suffolk Baby & Toddler Show later this year, and in this interview for Families Suffolk Magazine we get to know Michelle Jay, the mum and business woman responsible for bringing us this event....

My name is Michelle Jay, and i’m married to richard, and we have 3 lovely children, georgina (7), Alistair (4), and isabella (1).i set up Bumps, Babies and Beyond Events in 2014 after isabella was born with an extremely rare genetic condition called goldenhars Syndrome. i knew that izzy would need a lot of support, particularly over the first few years while she was having her first surgeries, and i felt that i couldn’t return to my previous very demanding job, so when the opportunity for voluntary redundancy came up i decided to leave so i could give izzy the support she needed. Whist i love being at home with my children, i had worked in a fast-paced commercial environment for the past 20 years and i have to admit the transition was challenging for me, so i set up Bumps, Babies and Beyond Events as a way to keep my toe in the business water.

‘Helping to prepare your dog for family life’

We organise Baby and Toddler Shows around the uk, which are the biggest (our last Show had 70 exhibitors and over 1,300 visitors) and best parenting events in each of the counties we bring our events to…. with great shopping, free taster sessions, demonstrations, seminars, family entertainment, and much more, all under one roof. We started off with one event, and have expanded significantly over the last six months and now have 10 Baby and Toddler Shows across the uk, and a further 20 planned for 2016, which is so incredibly exciting! But best of all i can run my business round my family…i can pick up my son and daughter from school, and spend time with izzy, this is something i just wouldn’t have been able to do had i returned to my previous job.

There are so many amazing local companies, many of them run by other Mums, but what i found when i was researching the business, was that often the cost of exhibiting at similar shows was prohibitively expensive for many small businesses. i wanted to change that, so we have purposely kept our prices as low as possible to enable small, local businesses to come along and showcase their products and services.

This is great for the small businesses we work with, and also for our visitors, who then have the chance to find those hidden gems they would not normally find on the high street.

Suffolk holds a very special place in my heart! i lived in ipswich for several years, in fact our two older children have been ipswich Town season ticket holders since they were 3, and travel to ipswich with my husband, where they meet up with their grandparents for every home game! So when i was looking at locations to bring our events, Suffolk was at the very top of my list. There hasn’t been a Baby and Toddler Show of this scale in the county, and i was really keen to organise an event which would really celebrate everything pregnancy to preschool Suffolk has to offer!

We already have an amazing list of local companies joining us, and a fantastic demonstration and entertainment programme lined up which we can’t wait to share with our visitors!

Our last show had 70 exhibitors!

Great shopping & free taster sessions

The Suffolk Baby and Toddler Show is on Sunday 27th September at the Suffolk Showground. doors open at 10am (last entry 3pm). Advanced Tickets are £2.50 (children go free) and are available from: www.suffolkbabyshow.com. All Advanced ticket holders will receive an exclusive goodie Bag. if you are interested in exhibiting please contact Michelle at: [email protected]

Show Info

FEATurE

hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen; most commonly grass pollen, but tree and weed pollen are also common allergens. causing itchy eyes, a runny or blocked up nose and sneezing, hay fever is becoming more common and can take the shine of enjoying the summer sun. There are a number of treatments available to buy over the counter at your local East of England co-op Pharmacy that can help relieve symptoms. Your pharmacist may recommend:

Nasal sprays Taken around 2 weeks before your symptoms usually start, nasal sprays can help prevent them from starting. Make a note on your calendar when your symptoms begin so next year you can be prepared.

Antihistamine tablets These can help to reduce the common symptoms associated with hay fever. Your pharmacist will be able to advise you on the options available, as some can cause drowsiness.

Take action against allergies

Around 1 in 5 people suffer from hay fever each year. With pollen levels peaking between late March and autumn, the East of England Co-op Pharmacy want to make sure you’re armed with some simple tips to help keep those runny noses and itchy eyes at bay.

8 cox lane, ipswich, 01473 253464

19 Meredith road, ipswich, 01473 742121

145 Fircroft road, ipswich 01473 743801

310 Sheldrake drive, ipswich 01473 683695

350 nacton road, ipswich, 01473 728407

combs lane, Stowmarket 01449 770761

189 hamilton road, Felixstowe 01394 282325

7 high Street, Saxmundham 01728 602051allergy adviceFree To find your nearest

pharmacy visit:

www.eastofengland.coop/pharmacy

Find your nearest East of England Co-op Pharmacy

Sponsored by East of England Coop

Page 5: Families Suffolk May - June 2015 Issue 23

9www.familiessuffolk.co.uk 01473 788546/FamiliesSuffolk@familiessuffolk

BABY & ToddlEr TAlk Sponsored by The Daisy Foundation

May - June 20158

To find your local class contact Jo:

t: 07944 070 362

e: [email protected]

A practical, educational and supportive journey through pregnancy, birth and baby

Pregnant? Daisy Birthing™ – the ground breaking

Active Antenatal™ program

www.thedaisyfoundation.com

CONTACT US TODAYT: 0770 604 0441 or E: [email protected]

www.allfiredupceramics.co.uk

Birthday Parties * Group Bookings Personalised Gifts * Hen Parties * Footprints

All Fired Up offer mobile ceramic painting parties after school, at weekends or in the school

holidays. We bring everything needed to your home or venue of choice.

BIRTHDAYPARTIES

AVAILABLE

SHOW SPONSOR: Kelly Chamberlain, owner of the Bear Garden comments...

“I believe the show is going to be the biggest and best parenting event in the county, so it made absolute sense that Suffolk’s only dedicated bear building shop should be there too. I decided to become a headline sponsor to support the event as I was impressed with the vast range of activities, information and

demonstrations on offer. I think it will benefit the community and I’d love to say I’ve been a part of that. The Bear Garden’s involvement means that we are able to offer exclusive discounts on the day and offer a relaxed environment for on the spot appointments for mums-to-be to record baby’s heartbeat and build their very own heartbeat bear, complete with a wish charm and certificate. We will also be showcasing our baby shower gift sets, personalised bear t-shirts and an exclusive range of bears not found anywhere else locally”. To find out more visit: www.thebeargardenipswich.co.uk

BABY & ToddlEr TAlk

The Suffolk Baby & Toddler ShowAfter speaking to Michelle, the face behind the show, we now hear more from some of the fantastic local businesses that are sponsoring and exhibiting at the event.

SHOW SPONSOR: Jo Cresdee, Regional Manager at the Daisy Foundation comments... “The Daisy Foundation is proud to sponsor The Suffolk Baby and Toddler Show. We believe that every mum and baby should have a solid foundation of support, access to unbiased education, an unconditionally supportive community and a continuity of care which will support you and nurture your confidence from pregnancy to parenthood. We promise to always stay true to our values by placing priority at all times on your choice, your confidence and your community. We will always support you to trust your own instincts, accessing the information you need to inform your own choices, free from judgement and supported in a professional and unbiased way. We like to take all the essentials – antenatal education, active birth preparation, postnatal support, baby massage, baby yoga, paediatric first aid – helping you to find your own way with your pregnancy, your birth and your baby. So with a splash of nurturing, a splurge of unbiased unconditional support and a big dash of professional education – we get an inimitable combination that is the magic of Daisy”. To find out more visit: www.thedaisyfoundation.com

SHOW SPONSOR: Claire Bailey, owner of Puddle Ducks Suffolk comments...

“Puddle Ducks’ swimming programme delivers nurturing, fun classes to thousands of babies, toddlers and children across the UK every week. Puddle Ducks are very excited to be sponsoring the Baby & Toddler Show. We will also have a fantastic prize on offer to win a term of lessons, along with a hook a duck and colouring stations for the younger children.

Some of the topics we would love to discuss with you are listed below, but please come with all the questions you have and we will be happy to help! • Benefits for taking your baby swimming • Tips for taking your baby swimming for the first time • Advice on immunisations/ illnesses when swimming/ how to prevent ear infections • What to expect in your first lesson • What your child will learn and achieve with Puddle Ducks” To find out more visit: www.puddleducks.com/suffolk

“At Baby Senses and Toddle Talk it has always been a passion of ours to ensure that expectant and new mums are made aware of the rich variety of services and support available to them locally. We are therefore pleased to be taking part in The Suffolk Baby and Toddler Show and look forward to speaking to all the expectant and new mums and dads about the benefits of learning baby massage and Toddle Talk baby signing, So come and say hello at the Baby Senses and Toddle Talk stall or visit www.BabySenses.co.uk.”

“Garden Games Party Hire is a family owned company based on the Essex/Suffolk border. Having a family is something we cherish and try to reflect some of our values through our company. We believe the Suffolk Baby & Toddler event promotes these ideals. We take pride in our company and products and love the fact that our business is to supply fun to happy times and celebrations. Toddlers love bright, colourful, fun things to play with and our range meets their requirements. The event is an opportunity for us to showcase to you, the public, what we have on offer and we are looking forward to meeting you all”. www.gardengamespartyhire.co.uk.

“As a new business in a specific niche I saw it as essential for Dogs Bumps Babies & Beyond (DBBB) to be at the Suffolk Baby & Toddler Show. Being a Parent Educator specialising in Dog & Baby and Dog & Toddler Dynamics this event will be providing the perfect opportunity to meet expectant families and families with young children that have a family dog. The show will enable me to let families know that such support and services exist, with DBBB ‘Helping to prepare your dog for family life’. So whether families are expecting their first baby, have a baby or toddler already, or even have another baby on the way, DBBB is here to help them set their dog up for success. There is so much that can be done to help promote enjoyment of family life for our four-legged family members”. Gemma Abbott, BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour ScienceDogs Bumps Babies & Beyond www.dbbb.co.uk [email protected] / 07572593582

“Suffolk Baby and Toddler Show will enable us to share with families the home from home environment and amazing Forest School experience we provide at Quayside Nursery. It will also give us a chance to network with other professionals, share ideas and expertise. Bright Horizons Family Solutions is very excited at the prospect of being part of what will be a fun interactive day with children at the very heart of it.” Karen Abram, Nursery Manager Quayside Nursery, University Campus Suffolk. tel: 01473 295890

“Smallprint Ipswich is really looking forward to exhibiting at the Suffolk Baby & Toddler Show, a great place for parents and parents-to-be to visit and discover the different products, services and support available to them locally. The event has been very professionally organised and should be a fantastic day out for mums, dads and grandparents, together with their little ones. It is a great networking opportunity for exhibitors, consolidating all our skills and services under one roof. Small businesses need an avenue to promote their products and there is no substitute for seeing the quality of the product before you buy as well as enjoying a personal service… it’s always lovely to meet my customers face-to-face. Smallprint offers hand-crafted personalised silver jewellery, finished to high standards and providing our customers with a unique keepsake. We’ll have on display some lovely ideas for gifts for baby showers and new parents”. www.smallprint.com

Page 6: Families Suffolk May - June 2015 Issue 23

10 11www.familiessuffolk.co.uk 01473 788546/FamiliesSuffolk@familiessuffolk

Party Planning Guide

May - June 2015

PArTY FEATurE PArTY FEATurE

www.ipswich.gov.uk/sport

great value, fun filled,

themed partiesIncluding soft play, sports and pool parties

Call 0800 0371 371 or call into any Sports Centre or Crown Pools

let’s partyPi

ctur

e cr

edit:

© P

etro

Fek

eta

- Fot

olia

.com

if you need inspiration for a children’s party, ipswich Borough council offers a range of themed parties at each of their sports centres and crown Pools. They can provide a party assistant to help everything run smoothly and encourage games, plus there’s always time allowed for you to bring in party food. And there’s absolutely no clearing up, because they do that for you as well! For more information visit: www.ipswich.gov.uk/sport or call free on 0800 0371 371.

Little Kickers little kickers birthdays are for any child 5 years old and below. We run these in partnership with all of our venues which includes Brackenbury Sports centre Felixstowe, kesgrave community Sports centre, Maidenhall Sports centre, gainsborough Sports centre and our new venue coming in September of northgate Sports centre. These are 1 hour parties of coaching and 30-45 minutes of eating time afterwards. We are happy to offer each customer a package that suits them best as we can book extra spaces, extra coaches and extra prizes if needed but all party packs start at under £100. We also run parties for older children through xtra Time Sports development. These are parties aimed at children 5 years and above. They are the same price range as little kickers. These can be inside or outside and there is more flexibility with venues as we can even run these in big back gardens or at local community football clubs including parks.

All lead coaches are Football Association qualified and have crB/dBS records in date along with first aid and child safeguard. We have both male and female coaches in our team as football is also a girls sport and both my daughters love playing!

To book a little kickers party please contact chris or Matt West on 01394 200327 or email [email protected] book a xtra Time party please contact chris or Matt West on 07929 188072 or email [email protected]

Birch Farm Are you looking for somewhere to hold your child’s party? our parties are suitable for children 1- 12years and start from just £6.95 per head including food. All parties are for 2 hrs and include food and children’s drinks supplied by your party host. Adult platters are of all also available to cater for the needs of all those attending your child’s party.

Play Barn Parties - We offer a selection of options including exclusive hire of our play barnSwimming Parties - With exclusive use of our pool for 1 hr our swimming parties include a lifeguard and fun toys and inflatable’s. Followed by a hot and cold buffet. only £9.95 per head minimum 8 childrenCookery parties - Staff assist children to make 1 savoury and 1 sweet dish £12.50 per head includes all cookery materials and party food to follow. Minimum 8 children.Jo Jingles Parties - have great fun with music and movement games . A qualified Jo Jingles instructor will undertake music and games with the children including bubbles and parachute games for 1¼hrs (parents to assist and join in depending on the age of the children) before we have party food. 8-15children per party £12.50 p/h

For more information or to discuss availability ring Mini on 01473 652152 or email [email protected]

Archery Parties (7+ years) northgate A qualified coach will teach the children how to use a bow and arrow with target shooting and scoring.

Bouncy Play Party (3-7 years) gainsborough includes use of 2 bouncy castles, (including a ball pool). A small matted area with soft play equipment is also included.

Crazy Croc (3-8 years) Maidenhall Enjoy the inflatable ball pool, bouncy castle, soft play and plastic play equipment under the supervision of a party assistant.

Football Parties (6+ years) All centres. A Party Assistant is optional to assist you and act as a referee or to organise a mini-tournament or games.

Jungle trail (3-8 years) - Northgate

Enjoy not one but two Jungle bouncy castles, soft play and plastic play equipment under the supervision of a party assistant.

Multi-Sports (6+ years) - All centreschoose two activities from various sports including: football, rollerskating, and multi-sports. A party assistant is provided to assist you with the activities. £62 for up to 20 children.

treasure Island Party (3-7 years) - Whitton Treasure island soft play area, pirate bouncy castle and arts & crafts, all in a pirate setting. Even more fun if you ask your guests to dress up.

Rollerskating Party (6+ years) - All centres With the help of a party assistant children can skate to music and children can bring their own skates if they have them.

Soft Play (under 5’s) - Gainsborough and Whitton half the room is set up with various soft play equipment, the other with tables and chairs. All venues have a ball pond.

Swimming Pool Party - Crown pools our party assistant will be in the water along with floats and inflatables to entertain the children and clean up after!

The Dream Team The dream Team are fastly becoming Suffolk’s leading princess and character company. We not only entertain with dancing, stories, games, pamper time/glitter tattoos and more, but we encourage your little ones to join in with all the fun. nothing compares to the look on your child’s face when their favourite character walks through the door. We take great pride in offering your child a wonderful experience creating magic which will last a life time! www.thedreamteamco.co.uk. call: 07754524604 or Email. [email protected]

Planning your child’s birthday party can often take weeks, and there are so many options to choose from. In our party planning guide we have tried to offer you some ideas for your next party!

Anglian Karting At Anglia indoor karting (ipswich ltd) we cater for birthday parties for all ages. For 5 – 7 year olds we have a specially designed kubz karting area for your little racing drivers to practice their skills. Party packages start at £175 for a group of 10 children and include use of the kubz party room, including the inflatable bouncy castle and ball pool to keep them entertained while not on the track. Party bag, drinks & birthday cake are included in the price, as is a medal for the birthday child.

older children, aged 8 and above can experience the thrill of driving on the main track with its flyover and tunnel. Party packages for this age group start at £225 for a group of 10 children and include an hours track time, followed by cake and drinks in the party room. The birthday child will receive a medal and all children will receive a complimentary party bag.

And don’t forget that we can even cater for birthday events for adults – give us a call to discuss the options. We are open 7 days a week from 10am to 10pm. Call: 01473 240087.

Learn Play Grow celebrate your child’s birthday with a learn Play grow party! learn Play grow parties our designed to guarantee that every child taking part has a day to remember. Each of the lPg activities have been effectively advanced to have a special party touch. our lPg party package includes the following: • A fully qualified lPg coach • All equipment • Birthday invitations • gift for the birthday child • guest appearance from one of our lPg characters • 1 hour 30 minutes of birthday fun venue can either be provided by lPg or at a venue of your choice. For more information visit: www.learnplaygrow.co.uk.

Page 7: Families Suffolk May - June 2015 Issue 23

May - June 201512 13www.familiessuffolk.co.uk 01473 788546/FamiliesSuffolk@familiessuffolk

PArTY FEATurE PArTY FEATurE

Competitions...Win a children’s party at The Bear Garden The Bear garden in ipswich is offering one lucky reader the chance to win a party package for 6 children. The party includes a choice of a full sized bear, a wishing ceremony, bear certificate, and a bear coloring t-shirt for the children to customize with fabric pens. Worth almost £90.00 For your chance to win you just have to answer the following question... In what year did the Bear garden first open:A. 2012 B. 2013 C. 2014

To Enter: Simply email your answer to: [email protected]

Competitions close: Friday 26th June and the winners will be notified the week commencing Monday 29th June. To see full competition terms and conditions please visit: www.familiessuffolk.co.uk/competitions.

Win a professional photography session at your childs partygemma B Photography is offering a 2 hour photography service at your child’s birthday party to capture all the fun. You will also win 2 10x8 prints of your choice. Worth £75.00 For your chance to win you just have to answer the following question... What insect features in Gemma B’s logoA. Butterfly B. Beetle C. Bee

To Enter: Simply email your answer to: [email protected]

• SpecialiStproviderS ofoutdooractivitieS

• partieSfrom£12perperSon• offeringairrifleShooting, archery,archerytag,climbing, fencingandmore!

• Suitableforage8toadult• canbehoStedatyourvenueof choice

• alSoofferingcharityeventS, corporateeventSandhen/Stag partieS

tel:07853866863www.sparrowhawkleisure.com

SparrowhawkleiSure

FANCY DRESS, HEN PARTY, WEDDINGS, PARTY & BABY SHOWERS

* Balloons

* Party bags

* Fancy dress

* Gift wrap

* invitations

* GAMES

Your one stop online shop for any special occasion.

www.fancyfunctions.co.uk

All Fired Up Birthday Parties ideal for groups of 8 or more 5 - 15 year olds. Set your child’s imagination free and watch them proudly create their own work of art.  Their birthday party package includes: • Party invitations • complete painting instruction and supervision • unlimited use of paints, brushes and stamps • hand painted and personalised plate for the birthday child • drinks for the children and we can provide candles, matches and napkins if you would like to bring a birthday cake. choose from a selection of ceramics which can be themed and personalised for your child. Party food is also available - contact your local All Fired up for a list of food options and prices. At the end of the birthday party, each piece will be glazed, fired, gift-wrapped and ready for collection in 10 days. (Please note that a minimum of 8 painters is required for the birthday party package). www.allfiredupceramics.co.uk.

The Outrageous Cake Academy The outrageous cake Academy offer two packages with a selection of parties and menus for children aged 6 - 12. Package 1: consist of any one of the Activity Party selection only. Each party will last for approximately 1.5hrs. cost of this Party is £12.50 per child with a minimum of 6 and maximum of 10 children.  Package 2: our All inclusive package gives you a choice of any one of the Activity and Menu Party selections. All inclusive packages are £20.00 per child with a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 10 children. Firstly choose one from the following Activity Party selection:1. CUPCAKES, 2. GINGERBREAD, 3. CAKEPoPS 4. BISCUIt BAKING. Then make your selection from one of the All inclusive Menus for your party. 1. PAStA, 2. PIZZA PARtY, 3. JACKEt PotAtoES, 4. CoLD BUFFEt. For more information visit: www.the-outrageous-cake-company.co.uk.

Sailfish swimming parties. Sailfish swimming parties offer a party package with exclusive use of a swimming pool at Bradgate, Elton Park in ipswich. The newly built pool offers a relaxed, clean, safe and fun environment for your child’s party. For 2 hours, they can entertain your party guests with 1 hour of fun and games in the pool with up to 2 lifeguards being present depending on age/ability.  After changing they provide and serve the party tea, with either hot or cold options which can be tailored to suit your needs.  All this for £175 for up to 12 children, additional children can be booked on at £12.50 per head. You can even extend the party and organise a beautician to come in afterwards to paint the girls toenails for an additional £35. Why not do this instead of having party bags! So why not, sit back, relax and let us organise a party to remember.  www.poolpartiesipswich.co.uk.

ANGLIA KARTINGASK US FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT...Arrive and drive Kubz Karting fun for children aged 5-7 * Kubz Karting Parties * 3 for 2 track sessions every Wednesday (10 - 12noon), during school holidays in the Kubz area.CALL US TODAY: 01473 240087

Sparrowhawk LeisureSparrowhawk leisure are specialist providers of outdoor Activities who offer After School clubs, PE lessons and Enrichment days. Based in ipswich, they can also provide Birthday Parties at copleston Sports centre or bring the party to your venue of choice. They pride themselves on offering a tailored service to their customers, making each event unique to their customer.Some of the activities on offer are:-Air Rifle target Shooting: Air rifle target shooting is a sport suitable for all ages. it develops concentration and attention skills as well as developing a sense of discipline. Archery: using a modern recurve bow, participants can take part in a number of games and challenges whilst honing their robin hood/Maid Marion skills.Archery tag: A combination of Paintball and Archery! Take aim at your friends and family with SAFE arrows. This is the closest you will get to the hunger games, reveal your inner katniss or Peter with this new, energetic twist on an old classic.Climbing: Perfect for all the over energetic tree climbers out there. climbing provides a challenging but rewarding birthday party.Fencing: En garde! This swashbuckling activity is great for the little pirates out there. challenge your friends to a duel and see who has the fastest reaction times.

For more information call: 07853 866863 or visit: www.sparrowhawkleisure.com

Sponsored bySponsored by Birch Farm

Little Dream PartiesThe most professional children’s party entertainment. Take the stress from organising that very special day, sit back and enjoy with family and friends. Perfect parties tailor made just for you. Princess! Pirate! Frozen! Toy Story! and so much more. if you are looking for an exciting and imaginative party full of dancing, party games, prizes, balloons and bubbles combined with fun and laughter then look no further. Parties can be themed to whatever your child would love; to see a child’s little face beam as their favourite character enters the room is priceless. little dream Parties makes each child feel special on their happy day, full of excitement and joy, ready to share their day with their friends and family. We are a very friendly and flexible company who like to ensure all our clients individual needs are met. We offer party fun for all events, occasions and celebrations.. www.littledreamparties.co.uk.

Page 8: Families Suffolk May - June 2015 Issue 23

14 15www.familiessuffolk.co.uk 01473 788546/FamiliesSuffolk@familiessuffolkMay - June 2015

FAMilY MATTErS

YoUR NAME: Angela douglasHoW DID YoU FIND oUt ABoUt tHoMASIN NEWtoN’S CoLoUR ANALYSIS SERvICE? i saw a competition in Families Suffolk Magazine.WHAt DID YoUR CoLoUR ANALYSIS INvoLvE? i visited Thomasin’s home, where she had a special room dedicated for her business. Thomasin spent some time at the beginning of the session talking to me, and making me feel really at ease with her, and understanding what my expectations from the colour Analysis were. i was then sat in front of a mirror and Thomasin held different colour swatches of material against me, so we could see which colour shades suited me best. it was amazing to see how the different colour’s made me look and feel. Thomasin also spent time talking me through how best to accessorize an outfit, which was great. When i left Thomasin gave me some fabric swatches of the colour’s that suited me best, so i can keep them in my handbag and they are there whenever i go shopping.Thomasin also gave me some great advice for organising my wardrobe, and clearing out items that i never wear.WHAt WERE YoU HoPING to GAIN FRoM YoUR CoLoUR ANALYSIS?i didn’t really enjoy shopping anymore, and felt i had lost my way in terms of knowing what to buy and what to wear. What i really wanted and needed from the session was some advice to help me know what colours and styles suited me best so i knew what i should be buying.Do YoU FEEL YoU ACHIEvED tHIS? Yes definitely. i now really enjoy shopping again. it’s also a lot more economical, as i only really buy the things now that i know i will get a lot of wear out of.

Sponsored by

Sponsored by GenR8

Independent Business Profile

rEviEWS

With the summer months ahead, many of us are thinking about jetting off on holiday or going away for a couple of weeks in the sun. Yet what happens if you’re divorced; are you allowed to take your children abroad without their other parent? And what happens if you want to take them away for longer or further away? can you move to a different part of the country with your children when you’re divorced, or even move to another country? The law is reasonably clear on most of these questions and many of the answers revolve around whether or not the other parent has legal parental responsibility.

What is Parental ResponsibilityParental responsibility is the right and legal duty to care for a child and encompasses all of the rights and responsibilities that a parent has towards a child, including the right to decide where the child should live, how they should be educated and what school they should attend, what form of religious upbringing the child should have, and what medical treatment the child should receive. On a practical basis, schools, social services, hospitals and other organisations may not deal with a separated parent unless they have parental responsibility.

More significantly, unless you have parental responsibility, you do not have to be consulted on important decisions about the children and the children may be taken out of the country on holiday or even indefinitely, without your permission. in a nutshell, mothers have parental responsibility for their children. civil partners or fathers who are married to their children’s mothers also have parental responsibility. unmarried fathers may have parental responsibility but this will depend on when the child was born and whether they were named on the child’s birth certificate.

Leaving on a jet plane SCENARIO A.

Sonia and Martin are divorced. Their daughter, rebecca, lives with Sonia and Martin sees rebecca weekly. Sonia has booked a holiday to take rebecca to Spain for two weeks in the school holiday. is Sonia able to go?Sonia should get permission from Martin to take rebecca on holiday but, unless Martin has a formal objection, Sonia is free to take rebecca away for two weeks.

if Martin does have an objection to the holiday, he needs to make an application to the court for a prohibited steps order as soon as he becomes aware of the holiday. however, unless there are genuine concerns about the child’s safety, the court is unlikely to prevent the holiday from taking place.

SCENARIO B.After her holiday, Sonia is offered a senior position at a hospital in Birmingham and wants to leave london to take up the job. can she take rebecca with her? What about Martin’s contact?

There are no explicit legal restrictions preventing Sonia from moving within the country. Although Martin can object to the move through the courts, the courts generally take the view that, unless the move is being done deliberately to frustrate contact, it would be inappropriate to interfere with Sonia’s right to choose where she will live. in this scenario, contact will still be possible and can be maintained.

SCENARIO C.After a year, Sonia considers her career options again and now is offered a job that is not in England or Wales. Whether the job is in Scotland, France, or Australia, what is the legal position in terms of removing rebecca?

if Martin consents to the move, Sonia can relocate with rebecca. if Martin objects then Sonia should apply for a specific issues order at court to enable her to relocate. if Sonia does not make the appropriate application then Martin should make an application for a prohibited steps order to prevent the move from taking place. The court must weigh up whether the move is in the best interests of the child and balance the impact of refusing to allow the relocation on Sonia against the impact of the relocation on Martin’s relationship with rebecca. unless the move is thoroughly planned and researched the application has little prospect of success. great care must be taken when there is a proposal to take the child away to a country that is not a hague convention country as it can be extremely difficult to secure the return of the child once they are there.

SCENARIO D.Mick and linda aren’t married. They have three children together but Mick does not have parental responsibility. Their relationship has broken down, what rights does Mick have?

Mick does not have legal responsibility in the same way that Martin does and linda is free to move within this country or abroad without his consent.

if you do not have automatic parental responsibility for your children then you can acquire it in a number of ways, including by entering into a formal parental responsibility agreement, obtaining a court order or by obtaining a children arrangements order. if you have any doubts or concerns about your position seek legal advice.

Josephine hayes is a specialist family lawyer able to offer advice on a wide range of family law issues. Margary + Miller Solicitors is a long established business providing professional legal services throughout Suffolk and beyond. With an established reputation built on reliability, customer service and flexibility, the firm prides itself on providing quality advice, supported by legal expertise and local knowledge. Margary + Miller’s Family department subscribe to the resolution code of conduct which aims to reach a fair outcome as quickly and cost effectively as possible without the need for stressful court battles. offering fixed fee and bespoke services, Margary + Miller Solicitors are confident that all of their services offer clients value for money.

Helping you understand the Law We’re going to consider four different scenarios to help you understand the law as it currently stands. As with any legal issue, each person’s legal situation is different from someone else’s so if you have any concerns about anything you read in this article, you are strongly advised to take legal advice.

Get some good advice

NAME, LoCAtIoN AND NAtURE oF tHE BUSINESS: Fancy Functions, online fancy dress, wedding & party supplies based in ipswich. www.fancyfunctions.co.uk

HoW LoNG HAS tHE BUSINESS BEEN RUNNING: Since February 2011

WHY DID YoU StARt oR tooK ovER tHE BUSINESS AND HoW HAS tHE BUSINESS DEvELoPED ovER tIME: i love parties and dressing up and having had 4 children discovered a gap in the market for a local one stop party and fancy dress store. i decided to set up the business online as this fitted in better balancing running a business and bringing up 4 children. over a period a time the business has developed to offer not only licensed party supplies such as Peppa Pig, Frozen, despicable Me, My little Pony, Marvel Avengers but wedding, baby shower and hen night supplies. Fancy dress costumes are also sold even costumes suitable for school events and trips such as kentwell hall and school projects such as world book day, nativity plays, and history projects.

This side of the business is a lifesaver for any parents who haven’t got the time or skill to create the costumes. Since Sept 2013 the business has offered a collection facility meaning if you were to place an order online by midday you can collect the same day.

WHAt DoES tHE BUSINESS HAvE to oFFER FAMILIES AS A WHoLE oR INDIvIDUAL FAMILY MEMBERS: our party supplies and costumes are relevant for all family members; you can even buy costumes for you whole family to attend a party dressed as block heads or hippies and such like. Even unborn family members are catered for with a full range of baby shower supplies for either mums-to-be of girls or boys or even the latest range the gender reveal range (see website for full details of this range).

WHY DID YoU FEEL It WAS IMPoRtANt FoR YoU to JoIN tHE GENR8 SCHEME AND WHY IS It IMPoRtANt FoR READERS to SUPPoRt THE SCHEME: i thought by joining the scheme whose aim is to highlight all the local businesses in Town and give them support whilst boosting our local economy. i also am proud to be the only online fancy dress, wedding and party supplies business within the genr8 scheme. As such if you are a genr8 member you receive 10% off any purchases.

HoW LoNG WAS tHE CoLoUR ANALYSIS? it took a good 2 hours, including a nice cup of tea and chat when i first arrived. WHAt DID YoU ENJoY MoSt ABoUt YoUR tIME WItH tHoMASIN? i really enjoyed how comfortable Thomasin made me feel, from the moment we met, i felt completely at ease. her professionalism and expertise was brilliant.WoULD YoU CoNSIDER ANY oF tHoMASIN’S otHER SERvICES?Yes i would – Thomasin offers a party service, which i think would be great fun with a group of friendsWoULD YoU RECoMMEND tHE CoLoUR ANALYSIS to YoUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY? Yes, absolutely. i was so impressed with her service, and just how much more confident i am now as a result.

To find out more about the colour Analysis Service available from Thomasin newton, call: 07500 443974 or visit: www.thomasinnewtonimageconsultant.com.

Colour Analysis with Thomasin NewtonCustomer Review

Page 9: Families Suffolk May - June 2015 Issue 23

16 17www.familiessuffolk.co.uk 01473 788546/FamiliesSuffolk@familiessuffolk

Helping Suffolk to become England’s Most Active County www.mostactivecounty.com

GREAT EAST SWIM 20 JUNESecure one of their 10 limited spaces and help young athletes across the UK. Your challenge will be to swim 1 mile. Apply for one of SportsAid’s guaranteed Great East Swim places to help the next generation of British sport. We ask for an entry fee of £20 to secure your place and that you pledge to raise £500 (excluding Gift Aid) for SportsAid to help young athletes achieve their ambitions of competing at the Olympic and Paralympic Games. In return SportsAid will provide you with:

•Expertfundraisingadvice,ideasandsupport•AfreeSportsAidt-shirttowearontheday•AdesignatedcontactatSportsAidtohelpwithany questions you have along the way and support you all the way to the finishing line.

Placesaregivenonafirst-comefirst-servedbasis.Visit www.sportsaid.org.uk to apply.

GREAT EAST SWIMALTON WATER 20TH JUNE Set in the beautiful Alton Water reservoir the Great East Swim is one of East Anglia’s most popular sporting events. Thousands of swimmers of all abilities don their wetsuits and swimming caps and dive into this beautiful open water location.Choosefromthe½mile,1mile,2 mile or more challenging 5k. There’s even a 250m open water swim for children in year 6! To nominate a pupil contact [email protected] by 8th May. Nominees must be able to swim at least 250 metres confidently and hold the Personal Safety Award. www.greatswim.org

NEW ‘SpLASH N DASH’ EvENT AT THIS yEARS GREAT EAST SWIM Entries are now open for a brand new event coming to Alton Water reservoirnear Ipswich on Friday 19th June which promises to be an exciting ‘opener’fortheGreatEastSwim,whichwilltakeplaceonthefollowingdayonSaturday20thJune.

The‘SplashnDash’aquathlonisahalf-mile(800m)openwaterswim,directlyfollowedbya5km run around Alton Water reservoir. The picturesque countryside scenery at Alton Water is the ideal setting for those who wish to combine their love of swimming and running and peoplecanenterindividually,orasateamoftwo,whereonepersonundertakestheswimandthe other runs.

The‘SplashnDash’willtakeplaceonFriday19thJune,withtheindividualeventbeginningat 17:30 and the team event at 18:00. Entries are £30 per individual entry or £35 for a team of two.Entrantsmustbeaged12oroldertotakepartinthehalf-mileswimandage16orolderfortherunsection,ortoenterasanindividual.Allentrantswillreceivetheirownmedalandt-shirtfortakingpart.

Formoreinformationandtoenterthe‘SplashnDash’ortheGreatEastSwim,visitwww.greatswim.org

FRIENDS LIFE WOMEN’S TOURBURy ST EDMUNDS - 17TH JUNETwelve of the world’s top fifteen women’s professional cycling teams will head to Suffolk this June to race in the second edition of the Friends Life Women’s Tour. Led by the world’s number one team RaboLiv,whowonthe2014FriendsLifeWomen’sTourwithMarianneVos,alloftheworld’stopsixtradeteamswillrideinthisJune’sevent,whichbegins in Bury St Edmunds on Wednesday 17 June.

The teams invited also boast all bar seven of the world’s top 50 ridersrankedbythesport’sgoverningbody,theUCI,asoftheirend of February rankings.

The 68 mile route heads out of Bury St Edmunds and through Stowmarket before dropping down towards Ipswich. The run in to the coastline continues east through Woodbridge and Saxmundham before travelling along the seafront from Thorpeness to the finish line in Aldeburgh (the full route can be found here www.womenstour.co.uk/stages/stage1)

TWO OppORTUNITIES TO JOIN SUpERSTAR SOpRANO LAURA WRIGHT AND RAISE MONEy FOR SpORTSAIDApplications are now open to join team SportsAid and Laura Wrightfortwoveryuniqueopportunities.LauraWright,SportAidAmbassador,hassoldoveramillionalbumsmakingheroneofthe

biggest selling classical artists this decade. A familiar face at worldwide sporting events Laura was recently announced as a new national ambassador for SportsAid.

2015 FRIENDS LIFE WOMEN’S TOUR 17 JUNESportsAid is also looking for eight people to join Laura as she cycles the first stage of the Friends Life Women’s Tour on June 17 ahead of the world’s top cyclists to raise money for the charity.

Thestagecoversa68-mileroutefromBurySt Edmunds to Aldeburgh on the coast of Suffolk andafteryou,LauraandtherestoftheSportsAidteamhavecompletedit,youwillgettowatchtheprofessional riders race for the finish from the VIP area.

You don’t need to be a professional cyclist yourself totakepart.Youjustneedtobeingoodhealth,able to average 15 miles an hour on a bike in rolling countryside,comfortablecycling68miles,andhappyto fundraise for SportsAid with Laura to support the Laura Wright SportsAid Awards.

Besides this amazing experience we will also provide you with:

• Expertfundraisingadvice,ideasandsupport;• AfreeSportsAidcyclingshirttowearonthe day;• AdesignatedcontactatSportsAidtohelp with any questions you have along the way and support you all the way to the finishing line.

We ask for an entry fee of £50 to secure your place and that you pledge to raise a minimum of £750 (excluding Gift Aid) for SportsAid.

Placesaregivenonafirst-comefirstservedbasis and some conditions apply.

TojoinLauraontheWomen’sTour,pleasecontact Grace Hughes at SportsAid today by emailing [email protected] calling 020 7273 1975.

hEAlTh & WEllBEingSponsored by Ipswich Borough Council The largest sport provider in Ipswich

Tennis for all ages and abilities

We have been speaking to Felixstowe Lawn Tennis Club to see what their facilities have to offer Suffolk families. Here is what they had to say..“Tennis is a very sociable sport that is available to all ages. I teach pre-school through to veterans, beginners to established players. Tennis is a great sport to play with family and friends – it’s not just standard matches in tennis there are hundreds of games and challenges you can play singularly and in teams. You can adapt all these games to make them easier or more difficult which is why you can play with any number with various ages and abilities. I like to work on co-ordination skills, footwork and tactics as well as technique. I think keeping lessons interesting and fresh is a great way to keep people interested. Playing a sport you enjoy makes exercise fun.

We are lucky to have 9 floodlit hard courts and 9 grass courts. We host some exciting professional tournaments over the summer and also run some fun family double afternoons, and match play events. The club has a lovely atmosphere and is great place to meet new people – for adults there is a club night each Tuesday, members will often arrange weekly friendly doubles matches, we enter a doubles league, and adult group or individual coaching can be arranged.Children also have lots of choice – every Saturday throughout the year we run a fun group session. Split into three age groups and a tuck shop is available. Each child gets signed in each week so no need to book. 4 – 16 years £3 members £6 non-members.After school squads which run in term time – smaller groups with a theme each week i.e. serves or forehands etc. £5 members £7 non members. In the school holidays we have tennis camps, which are 9am – 4pm, are action packed – tennis games coaching and challenges, football, table tennis, rounders, a pool table, free afternoon snack and a tuck shop. You can even book a Tennis party – a fun hour of games and use of ball machine and then the Club House for your birthday tea £60 for up to 12 children

As well as tennis FLTC also runs quizzes, an Easter egg hunt, junior Xmas party, car boot sales, rents the Club House out for occasions such as wedding receptions, free open days and many other events so playing tennis not only is great fun, good for you, sociable but also leads to many other activities”To find out more call lysette Fulcher on 07889 972214 or visit: www.felixstowetennis.co.uk.

With Summer on the way we have been looking at a few more of the outside activities available for you and your family to take part in. Anglia Sports Management

Anglia Sports Management (ASM) are launching a brand new fitness course aimed at young females aged 16-25. FitKiK is a fusion of dance and martial arts movements, delivered in an upbeat and fun way. The sessions will be progressive across the 6 week course ensuring that each individual on the programme can develop at their own pace and level of fitness, whilst benefiting from the support and encouragement that group exercise can provide. The sessions will be delivered at Brantham leisure centre on Tuesday evenings from 7pm-8pm with the first course starting on May 19th and the second one on July 7th. These courses are a partnership between ASM, Suffolk Sport and Sport England and each course will cost just £5 for the six weeks. The coach, Pippa Morris, is an England international 1st dan Black Belt in karate. Being of the same gender and age as the participants means that Pippa will be an excellent role model, whilst having a natural empathy and appreciation of the barriers and concerns that some young females have about doing any physical activity. She will be available 15 minutes before and after each class to answer any questions and deal with any concerns participants may have. After the two courses, there will also be a regular community based class established on Wednesdays at 8:15pm and will be open to women of all ages. To find out more and register for a place on the £5 funded course, visit: www.angliasportsmanagement.co.uk/fitkik.

May - June 2015

HALF PRICE ALL INCLUSIVEMEMBERSHIP

conditions applyexpires 15 June

NO CONTRACTS OR JOINING FEE

•5 PROFILES GYMS

•FITNESS CLASSES

•SWIMMING

•RACQUETS

DO YOU

LOVESUMMER?

SHAPEUP FOR IT

NOW

www.ipswich.gov.uk/sportfreephone 0800 0371 371

CALL IN TO ANY CENTRE TO SIGN UP

FAMILIES SUFFOLK ad_Layout 1 24/04/2015 16:15 Page 1

Page 10: Families Suffolk May - June 2015 Issue 23

May - June 201518 19

St Stephen, now home to the Tourist information centre. its architecture, both internal and external is the most impressive of these churches in terms of its interior, although both St nicholas and St Peter’s also contain treasures of national importance.

Following a full internal restoration in 2006, St Peter’s is a multi-use arts and heritage centre, where craft fairs, music and theatre productions are held. open every day, it also supports the local community as a rehearsal and performance space, as well as being the permanent home for the ipswich tapestries.

St Mary at Quay is currently being restored by Suffolk Mind and the churches conservation Trust following receipt of a grant of £3.6m from the heritage lottery Fund. re-opening under the new name of The Quay, the

BE inSPirEd

www.familiessuffolk.co.uk 01473 788546/FamiliesSuffolk@familiessuffolk

BE inSPirEd

T: 07500 443974 www.thomasinnewton imageconsultant.com

Spring clean your wardrobe ready for Summer! Is your wardrobe stuffed full of clothes but you feel like you’ve got nothing to wear? Why not get an expert to help you? Thomasin will work with you to clear out the wrong items so that all that remains is clothing that makes the best of you. Getting dressed can be a pleasure not a chore! Why not call today for a no obligation chat?

Reasons to visit Ipswich - Medieval Churches

Because of its historic past, ipswich is a place that boasts a wealth of heritage assets. ipswich has 13 medieval churches within its boundaries, more than any other town outside london, norwich, York and Bristol. 

Ipswich has 13 medieval churchesThe medieval churches which still exist as places of worship are: St Helen, St Margaret, St Mary Elms, St Mary at Stoke, St Mary le tower, St Matthew, and, St Mary and St Botolph.

other which have been transformed and a new use found include:

In our last magazine Ipswich Town & Waterfront gave us a broad overview of what Ipswich has to offer. This time we take a deeper look into some of Ipswich’s rich history as we try to inspire you and your family to discover more reasons to visit Ipswich.

church will be transformed into a wellbeing heritage centre open to the community.

St Peter’s is now a multi-use arts and heritage centreSt Lawrence, like those mentioned before, have been restored through financial investment, and is now a thriving charity-run restaurant, open every day, and St Nicholas, now managed by the Anglican diocese exists as a conference and exhibition centre.

St Clement has the potential to exist as those previously mentioned, although currently it is infrequently used, and it now awaits a new long-term owner and use. Maybe you have your own ideas about how this building could be brought back to life!

A free walking guide to help those interested in exploring ipswich’s medieval churches and discovering more about the architecture and history can be accessed by visiting: www.ipswich-waterfront.co.uk/things-to-do-in-ipswich.

Ipswich Town & Waterfront is an independent organisation helping residents and visitors to discover the best that Ipswich has to offer.

HAvE yOU BEEN INSPIRED?if you have been inspired after reading this to take your family along to one of ipswich’s medieval churches, post your pictures and comments on our facebook page to share your experience with others: Facebook.com/FamiliesSuffolk.

ipswich town& waterfront

If you have patience, enthusiasm and roomyou could be the one Charlotte is waiting for.

Adopt or foster and give a Suffolkchild the care they dream about.

Call: 01473 264800Visit: dreams.suffolk.gov.uk

Charlotte dreams ofa family life, chattingabout her day at schooland having friends roundfor dinner.

Fostering Adverts_Layout 1 15/12/2014 14:35 Page 2

xxxx xxxx xxxx

xxxx xxxx xxxx

xxxx xxxx xxxx

xxxx xxxx xxxx

xxxx xxxx xxxx

www.genr8card.com

off with over70 local

businessses

50%for up to

charlotte dreams of a family life, chatting about her day at school and having friends round for dinner. could you be the one she is waiting for?

The dreams of many young people in care are often heartbreakingly simple, of everyday things most children take for granted: a sense of belonging, the love of a family, home cooking and a bedroom of their own.

over 700 children are in care in Suffolk, with 400 over the age of 10. They need someone who can understand what they have been through, look at the world through their eyes and provide warmth, consistency and emotional support. This is where you come in. if you are looking for a new challenge, have patience, compassion and have a spare room, you could provide a child with the secure home life they need to thrive and achieve.

The Fostering and Adoption Service particularly need people to come forward to care for brothers and sisters to grow up together, children with disabilities or more complex needs and carers for children over the age of 11.

We know that many people can be hesitant to come forward and take the next step, but please be re-assured that we will respond quickly and sensitively and answer any initial queries that you have.

Jan is a foster carer for Suffolk county council who currently cares for two brothers aged 11 and 14. ‘Fostering is life changing, for both us and the children. It gives us so much joy to see their confidence grow and to help them turn their lives around. We are able to introduce them to the many things they may have missed out on and others take for granted, be that fun times like going to the cinema and a trip to the seaside, or by showing an interest in them, helping them with their school work, and providing the warmth, routines and boundaries that all children need. They can now start thinking about and planning for their future’.All sorts of people can be carers, but you need to be open minded, patient, and a good listener. I would recommend fostering to anyone’

Find out more at dreams.suffolk.gov.uk or contact us today on : 01473 264800 Email: [email protected]

Look out for Fostering Fortnight from the 1st – 14th June 2015 You can stay up to date with local events by following the Fostering & Adoption services on Facebook and twitter

Be Inspired to Foster or Adopt

Page 11: Families Suffolk May - June 2015 Issue 23

May - June 201520 21www.familiessuffolk.co.uk 01473 788546/FamiliesSuffolk@familiessuffolk

What do you enjoy about running your own business? Although it can be a bit stressful at times, we really get a buzz when it is busy and we have lots of families using the craft studios. it makes all the hard work worthwhile. We also enjoy coming up with new ideas and crafts for the shop. We have 2 children; William who is 7 & Jasmine who is 5. They love the fact that we use them as guinea-pigs to put all the new crafts on trial before we bring them in to the studios. We also love the children’s craft parties. They are always good fun and are very popular now, with one nearly every weekend.Is there anything you don’t enjoy about running your own business? The paperwork and admin side of running your own shop can be a little boring sometimes but we would say that there is nothing that we don’t enjoy in running our own business.What does the future hold for your business? We are delighted to have developed really quickly in a short time and we need to consolidate that. We want to continue to provide a brilliant creative experience for our customers and to build on relationships with our local craft makers who sell with us. We have many new exciting ideas in the pipeline for glass & craft including bringing in even more crafts and exciting workshops into our craft studios.How do you fit your business around family life? during a normal week day the shop only requires one of us to be there. As the shop opens at 10am we are both around for the children in the morning which works out great. Weekends can be a bit trickier but we have some fantastic support from family. during the School holidays both William & Jasmine often come over to the shop to help out. They just love ‘playing shop’!What advice would you give to any parents considering starting up their own business? Starting your own business can seem a bit daunting but we are really pleased that we made that brave step. Firstly, we believe that it is really important to have a business that you enjoy and that is going to work for the whole family. it must fit with being a mum and dad as well as a business couple. Secondly, do the research. Find out who your potential customers are and what they want. continue consulting customers once the business is launched they are key in helping a business to keep ahead of trends and the competition. next, get a good business plan. We had some good advice from a local business advisor who we worked with. Make sure that the plan is adaptable, flexible and allows for being creative. Finally, if it all makes sound business sense, go for it!

PArEnTS PlAcE ThE SuFFolk ShoW

Top things you must do at this year’s Suffolk Show Your names: Stacy & richard FosterName, location and nature of your business: glass & craft, kersey Mill. Family craft Studios & gift ShopHow long has your business been running and the reason why you started your own business? After running a successful hand painted glassware business since 2010 we found ourselves wanting to expand into other avenues. With more orders coming in, it was becoming hard to meet the demand and then one day we thought how much fun would it be if the customers could paint their own glassware. The idea of our glass painting workshop, glass & craft, was born! glass & craft opened its doors to families and keen crafters in June 2014. We started glass & craft solely as a glass painting studio and rented out a few shelves for local crafters to display and sell their items. We soon introduced other crafts such as ceramic painting & decopatch to offer our customers a variety of craft activities. We were also flooded with enquires from local craft makers who were looking to rent shelf space from us. So in September 2014 we extended into a larger unit within kersey Mill to give us more space. We now have 2 main craft studios where we are able to seat up to 30 people at any one time and now have 7 different creative crafts to choose from. our most recent introduction is “Teddy crafting” where customers can stuff their very own teddy bear. our shelf rental scheme has also grown extensively and we now have 38 fabulous local craft makers who sell with us. We are also becoming well-known as a venue for our creative children’s craft parties as we can provide several exciting packages which suits all ages.

Mum and Dad in business

C R A F T y C A P E R S . . .

Join the Suffolk Year of cycling - Follow a cycle route to the Show and park your bike in the new and FrEE cycle park – Felixstowe road main entrance.

Play noughts and crosses with the soldiers in the dive tank at the Military village – no wet suit required! – or climb into the tethered hot air balloon.

Meet Adie the cow in the Farm discovery Zone for a field to pipe experience of anaerobic digesters!

Watch an egg hatch and hold a new born chick or duckling.

Admire the model farms, all about a metre square and made from recycled materials by school children for the Suffolk Farming School of the Year competition, themed Agriculture – Supplying Your Energy. catch the finals too on Thursday.

Try out the Suffolk Sports village treasure trail for winning ideas to get the whole family off the sofa and moving!

Admire the model gardens designed and planted by Suffolk schoolchildren. can you spot the Alan Titchmarsh of the future?

Stop for refreshment on the beach? Yes, the new Adnams experience is where coast meets country.

Family Review by Heather ShropshireHeather shares her own families love for the annual Suffolk Show... “For many the Suffolk Show is as much part of the calendar as family birthdays and we are no exception. With our tickets packed, a picnic made and our two boys ready with rain coats, wellies, crocs and sun cream (for the just-in-case scenario) in the car we embarked on a family day out. Greeted by the men in their bowler hats and women in their “a day at the races” attire we made our way to the sheep huts where my husband’s family were showing the best of their flock. We passed cows, dogs, horses, goats, chickens, rabbits and birds on the way; all prepared for the variety of agricultural competitions time tabled throughout the two days.

Once the boys were suitably grubby we spent the next couple of hours aboard tractors, a pea harvester, lawn mowers, fire engines and numerous fair ground rides! The commercial aspect of the show is considerable and praise must be given to all whom allow and tolerate a steady stream of children to “oooh” and “aaah” aboard their machinery! There is an abundance of food to tempt any palette and typically, despite me rising at some ridiculous hour in the morning to prepare a nutritious and balanced picnic, the aroma of hog roasts, burgers, sausages, Chinese noodles and jacket potatoes was too tempting to resist. With plenty of seating available it is virtually impossible to persuade the family otherwise.

After lunch I was allowed some “mummy time” and headed straight for the clothing stands. Whatever your taste there is plenty of choice and it is perfectly understandable why some people require two days to peruse every tent within the show ground. As a family day out it is perfect for us. The boys have so much choice of things to do and see and the journey home was a barrage of things they want to see this year! Sadly we missed the royal visitor that dropped in on the show last year but I’ve no doubt that there will be as much excitement about the show as there always has been-there certainly will be in our house at least!”

Pick up some culinary tips from the region’s top professional chefs in the two cookery demonstration theatres.

Shop…it’s the biggest pop-up retail space in the county with many exclusive, hand crafted and “not on the high street products” and services.

Watch the grand Parade: The winning and best animals in the Show and possibly in the whole country right in front of your eyes in the grand ring.

Street entertainment tall and small from 8ft Titan the musical robot to chatty 3ft high Sheridan the Sheepdog on his bike.

Plan to stay late on Wednesday to enjoy the live music from cover band Soul kitchen.

have lots of fun and tell us about your day at www.facebook/suffolkshow

DoN’t FoRGEtUNDER 15’s Go FREE Buy your tickets today from:www.suffolkshow.co.uk

The Suffolk Show

A tote bag is a great way to use up fabrics you have lying around or to practise your sewing skills.

it’s a simple square or rectangle sewn together with either handles or straps.

Sounds daunting?! it needn’t be!

crafty Baba, Suffolk’s loveliest local fabric and haberdashery shop now stocks a ‘Bag in a Box’.

The box contains the pre cut fabric, threads, simple to follow instructions and even the needles needed to make a lined tote bag. The bags come in a range of colours and cost just £14.

They are available from www.craftybaba.co.uk or in their shop at: 32 St Peters St, Ipswich | 01473 210636

To find out more about glass & Craft visit www.glassandcraft.co.uk or call: 01473 517404.

Page 12: Families Suffolk May - June 2015 Issue 23

May - June 201522 23www.familiessuffolk.co.uk 01473 788546/FamiliesSuffolk@familiessuffolk

With two new breeds of cow introduced this year, the stunning Belted galloway and some new longhorn heifers plus a new herd of alpacas, alongside the existing cattle, horses and ponies, sheep, goats, rabbits, pigs, poultry and peacocks there are plenty of animals to meet and feed.

visit the Easton Farm Park website www.eastonfarmpark.co.uk for details of events and new developments including the children’s Fun Festival, which takes place on 1st & 2nd August and includes two nights camping plus lots of exciting additional fun on the farm.

WhAT’S on WhAT’S on

What will you discover?

Stowmarket, IP14 1DLwww.eastanglianlife.org.uk 01449 612229

Follow us on Twitter

@MuseumEALife

• events • Historic buildings • nature • animals • functions

‘My Museum' photography competition see website for details

This season take part in the

Find us on Facebook

/MuseumEALife

Hadleigh Show

Ipswich Arts Festival 19th June - 21st July 2015There is something for everyone, including the fabulous ipswich Music day in christchurch Park, the uk’s biggest one-day free music festival. Also sure to draw huge audiences are the indian Mela and global rhythms and madcap comedy team the Pantaloons are offering twice as much mirth this year, with performances of Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice in holywells and christchurch parks. Shakespeare in Suffolk, set in christchurch Mansion, sees the Bard’s touring company arrive in Suffolk in the year 1596. Plague, spies and playwrights! For the first time, a skateboarding competition will enable youngsters to show off their talents, while guided walks and a circus workshop add to the fun. For classical music fans, the ipswich orchestral Society will be performing in the corn Exchange and there is a classical concert picnic in the park. An open-air film day at iTFc, the ipswich Jazz Festival, street markets and bags of performance and visual arts treats are also included. ip-art is organised by ipswich Borough council and its partners and runs from Friday 20th June to Sunday 13th July. go to www.ip-art.com for more details and be part of the biggest festival in the region.

PULSE FESTIvAL 201528th May - 6th JuneThe new Wolsey Theatre will again host their annual Pulse Festival which will include the ever-popular children and Young People day! This full day of shows and workshops is a perfect introduction to theatre for ages 4 to 15. here’s what you could be getting involved with:

Come And Play! Join the theatre for a fun morning of game playing, storytelling and theatre making! learn new skills, make some friends and find out what it takes to create a brand new piece of theatre. Ages 7 to 11 can get creative from 10.15am, and ages 11 to 14 can get their teeth into a session from 12.30pm

Storymaker The Storymaker is back from two rounds of excellent storytelling and playtime at 10.30am and 12noon. With fans such as Families Suffolk, you can guarantee yourself a fun morning of amazing adventures and exciting escapades!

The Little Blue Boat And The Secret Of The Broads! At 11.30am, come aboard and join Able Sea Bear for this exciting journey through this great wetland as our heroes are aided by amazing animals, beautiful birds and the mysterious

Marsh Man, who reveals the secret of the Broads to our explorers in this enchanting and accessible adaptation of Phil Johnson’s book.

Kid Carpet And The Noisy Neighbours he’s back! Ed Patrick (aka kid carpet), is a Bristol-based theatre maker of nonsense music and rock’n’roll theatre shows. his funny and moving new show uses music, puppetry and projection to look at what it’s like to move into

a new house in the city and find your place there. Will they ever get used to living in the new house? Find out at 1pm.

Bookstory A tiny puppet musical with some very big ideas! in Brian’s library, the books are all in a muddle.   The romance is rubbing shoulders with the diY manual and the dictionary is sharing a shelf with the Whodunnit.  What’s going on?  To get to bottom of it, the books must work together – but how?  Books can’t move…or can they? Suitable

for anyone over the age of 7, it uses songs, puppetry and dynamic performance to tell the story of the story in the digital age, all at 3pm.

Book your tickets Tickets are available from the new Wolsey Theatre Ticket desk by calling 01473 295900 or by visiting www.wolseytheatre.co.uk.

Birch Farm Open Dayon Saturday 20th June from 9am – 4pm Birch Farm Play complex & nursery, hintlesham are opening their doors to everyone and hosting a family fun day. There will be much for every member of the family to enjoy. As in the past two years there will be class sessions for you to observe and in some cases taster sessions to try plus many craft and retail stalls for you to browse around.

new for this year is a varied schedule of activities and entertainment during the day for the children to enjoy, from painting crafts to visits from Peppa Pig, rapunzel and Jo Jingles, plus clifford vale Photography will be present to offer family portrait sittings or mini photo shoots. All the facilities will be open for you to view and the under 5’s play barn will be open all day. So put the date in your diary and pop along with all the family and have some fun whilst at the same time finding out about all that is on offer at Birch Farm Playbarn & nursery complex. www.birchfarm.co.uk

Easton Farm ParkSpring has definitely sprung on the farm. The lambs & kid goats are now all gambolling in the fields, the calves have started arriving, the piglets and ponies are all outside enjoying the fresh spring grass, the hens are laying and the eggs are hatching aplenty.There is plenty to do at Easton Farm Park. The gates open at 10:30am and from 11am there is a new activity every half hour including egg collecting, meet the animals, barrel bug rides, pony rides, meet a Suffolk Punch horse and lots more. There are 3 playgrounds – two heated indoor playbarns and one outdoor adventure playground with a fantastic new slide. The Barn café is open from 10:30am every day with a range of hot and cold lunch options, hot drinks and homemade cakes and there is a gift Shop to buy a memento of your day out.As well as all the animals and the stunning victorian buildings the farm has some lovely country walks leading down to the river deben, including some regenerated woodland walks.

Saturday 16th May

Preparations for the 176th hadleigh Show are well underway so put Saturday 16th May in your diary and join us for a great family day out at holbecks Park.hadleigh’s “Year of the Sheep” will be launched at the show so make sure you visit their marquee and keep an eye out for all things woolly, including i’m A Sheep get me out of here. “The Sheep Show” also returns, a humorous yet educational live stage show about sheep and wool with some surprisingly talented dancing sheep! ringside entertainment includes the inch Perfect Motorcycle Trials display team with their exhilarating action packed display of balance, skill and extreme bike control, the Young Farmers Tug-o-War and falconry displays. Following last year successful machinery demo, this year we will be showcasing Sugar Beet production where you will discover that a mouse doesn’t always have whiskers and a tail!There will be cattle, sheep, goats and horses on show; over 160 trade stands; the Art Exhibition and Sale; rural crafts; a Flower Tent and the Education Tent featuring art from local schools. The Food hall will showcase the very best of our local food and drink producers, tempting you to sample and buy. Advance tickets can be purchased on-line at www.hadleighshow.co.uk; if booking before Friday 15th May, visitors can take advantage of the ‘Early-Bird discount’, which reduces a Family Ticket (2 Adults with up to 3 children) to just £24.00. other Early Bird prices are: Adult - £9 (£12 on day); child 5-16 – £5 (£7 on day); Senior citizen - £7 (£10 on day). Parking is FrEE; gates open at 8.00am.

Sponsored by Sponsored bySponsored by Easton Farm Park Sponsored by The Mermaid

The MermaidMonster Mash Up Funour friends at The Mermaid Yarmouth road ipswich have a fabulous new game on their little Monster Zone website which is guaranteed to keep your own little monsters happy for a while. Monster Mash up is a ‘create your own monster game’ you choose your monster! and change its colour, you then choose your favourite eyes, mouth and hat, answer a couple of questions and then The Mermaid will email you your very own monster! There are around 37,000 monsters which can be created. Monster Mash up is part of www.littlemonsterzone.co.uk where you will find colouring in activities as well as the all-important children’s menu for the next time you visit The Mermaid – have fun.

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT WHAT’S ON vISIT OUR WEBSITE: WWW.FAMILIESSUFFOLK.CO.UK

For more information 01473 652152 [email protected]

www.birchfarm.co.uk

Saturday 20th June 2015 9am—3pm

Why not come along and see what Birch Farm has to offer both you and your children

And lots more to see and do,

Birch Farm Open Day

Usborne Books Class & Craft

Jo Jingles Lucy Lockets

Photography Reflexology All Fired Up

Taster sessions on all day

Page 13: Families Suffolk May - June 2015 Issue 23

YOUME

It’s over...We believe it’s not about who’s to blame, it’s about helping you sort out the responsibilities for your children, family home and finances; accepting that two lives have now moved in different directions.

Because your matter matters

Margary Miller Solicitors

+

01394 273333www.margary-miller.co.uk

OfficeS in:

felixstoweWoodbridgeMeltonSouthwold

Margery&miller_V4.indd 1 11/03/2015 12:06

Empower yourself to embrace birth and family life.

Stay calm, in control and relaxed during labour

and beyond.

The tools & techniques to achieve the birth you

wish for.

Ipswich and Woodbridge: Abigail Todd: 07886 569403

Sudbury, Bury St Edmunds & surrounding areas: Vicky Barbour-Andrews: 07766 448464

Hadleigh, HIntlesham & surrounding areas:Jo Butler: 07512 349619

LOCAL CLASSES

Competition Time: Win a TrampolineWould you like the chance to win a 10ft trampoline and enclosure

worth £99.00?

Trampolines

our friends at Jumpking, ipswich based trampoline specialists are offering Families Suffolk readers the chance to win an impressive 10ft trampoline and enclosure ready for the summer. To find out more about this trampoline visit: www.jumpking.eu.

All you have to do is answer the following question:

in addition to trampolines what other products are available from Jumpking Eu? A. Bouncy Balls. B. Bouncy castles. C. Bouncy chairs.

To Enter:Simply email your answer to: [email protected].

Competition closes: Friday 26th June and winner will be notified

the week commencing Monday 29th June. To see full competition terms and

conditions please visit: www.familiessuffolk.co.uk/competitions.