13 Magascene

Family Magascene

16 page pull out and keep supplement for parents

14 Magascene

Last month, it was reported that

recent research had shown that

parents will have missed out on

half a year’s worth of sleep by the

time their child turns two. I would

find that interesting if I wasn’t so

flipping tired. But let’s just yawn

that again: half a year’s worth of

sleep. Six words, behind which lies

a whole world of pain.

My two year old must have read

the same research, as he decided

about four months ago that sleep

was for wimps. Where once an

angelic toddler laid his head on the

pillow and didn’t stir until the morn-

ing, suddenly, his eyelids were on

a hair trigger and 2am became the

perfect time to get up and do some

chatting, 3.30am became the ideal

juncture to wake up and refuse to

have covers on and shout a lot and

anything after 5am was - well, day

time.

The utter shock of not getting a full

night’s sleep was like being struck

by a thundering juggernaut of

fatigue. Granted, we’d had some

practice, having survived the first

six months of baby-rearing – but

that was part of the deal we signed

up for. We knew it was going to be

sleep-deprived hell. People were-

n’t surprised to see me to put the

milk in the cupboard and the cat in

the oven, whilst wearing my

jumper on inside-out and back-to-

front. But two years in? Give us a

break. No, really, give us a break.

Enduring countless nights of

broken sleep makes you feel

rubbish. I am an empty, dry, husk

of a person, so insubstantial I

could be blown away in a strong

breeze, yet simultaneously feel like

my body has been filled with

concrete and my brain removed

whilst I wasn’t looking. I can carry

my weekly shop home in the bags

under my eyes (well, at least I am

doing my bit for the environment)

and can power-kip standing up

whilst waiting for the kettle to boil.

We have tried every strategy to

keep our son in bed. We consulted

books, scoured the internet, read

countless mums’ forums and it

seemed to boil down to two main

ideas: the ‘put them back, put them

back, put them back’ approach, or

the ‘gradual withdrawal’ technique.

Which although may vaguely

sound like contraceptive advice

from a Catholic, has been used

effectively by such goddesses of

parenting as Super Nanny. But it

didn’t work for us. I think the prob-

lem was, we just weren’t super

enough.

We asked our friends for advice. It

was at this point that the Pandora’s

box of Parental Panic creaked

reluctantly opened, and we caught

a glimpse of the shared madness

that is the over-tired parent trying

to regain control over their off-

spring’s non-sleeping habits. One

parent put up a safety gate at the

bedroom door to contain their

sleepless nipper. Hmm, basic stuff

- we did that and revelled in a

week of our son sleeping at the

foot of the gate before he realised

we were in danger of all catching

up on our sleep. Another, whose

child would climb over the gate,

then affixed a second gate on top,

thus containing child but making

entry a back-breaking crawl for the

parents. Ingenious, if a little un-

comfortable. Others were

convinced that their child would

stay in bed if only they couldn’t

open the door. This resulted in one

turning the lever handle upside

down to prevent opening, and the

other...well, the other slathered

Nivea cream all over the door

knob. On hearing this, I cried with

laughter. Then I think I just cried.

For all those hours sleep I will

never recapture. For all those

parents who crave a full night’s

sleep. But mainly because I am so

tired, I cry at anything.

So, back to that depressing

research. I should make clear that

it was conducted by Silentnight,

the mattress people, who

obviously thought it a marvellous

wheeze to flog more product. Mind

you, now I come to think about it, I

might just buy a new mattress. To

wedge up against our bedroom

door to stop our son coming in at

3.30am and sitting on my head

with a nappy full of poo.

And another

thing Sue de Nime

15 Magascene

Epping - Fridays & Chingford - Saturdays £6 for 45 mins!!

Private lessons also held for all ages.

16 Magascene

Tackling childhood

obesity

C hildren’s poor eating habits, such as snacking between lessons, have raised concerns about

whether enough is being done to tackle childhood obesity in the UK. Campaigners and medical experts fear parents and communities are not facing the issue head-on, with reports claiming healthy food options are still being overlooked. Almost all children's lunchboxes contain unhealthy snacks, according to a study conducted by mySupermarket.co.uk which is aimed at urging parents to re-think their child's diet and go for healthier options. The School Lunchbox Nutrition study found that 93% of lunchboxes

contained either a fun-size chocolate bar, biscuits or a slice of cake on a daily basis. Crisps featured in half of children's packed lunches, while nearly two-thirds of parents chose white bread over brown for sandwiches.

The scale of the problem Being obese or overweight increases the risk of a range of diseases that can lower life expectancy, including type-two diabetes, heart disease and some cancers. In the 10 years until 2005, the proportion of obese children aged 2 to 15 increased from 10.9% to 18% in boys, and from 12% to 18.1% in girls, according to a survey by the Department of Health.

If current trends continue, it is estimated that a fifth of boys and a third of girls will be obese by 2020, the Health Survey For England concluded. As children are continuously growing, weight gain is often dismissed by parents as 'puppyfat'.

17 Magascene

"Parents are finding it hard to spot the health problem, as childhood obesity is now becoming the 'norm'," says Jacqui Lowdon, Paediatric Dietician for the British Dietetic Association. Only one in 10 parents with overweight or obese children realise that their child is overweight, according to the Department of Health. Few make the connection between unhealthy weight and long-term health problems.

“A lot of us do not know

the difference between

an overweight child and

an obese child” explains Lowdon.

"This can be determined by using the Body Mass Index (BMI) which calculates body fat by measuring the height and weight of a person." A healthy BMI for adults is considered to be between 18.6 and 24.9, but it's important to remember that children's weight and height will fluctuate as they undergo growth spurts.

What causes obesity?

Healthcare charities such as The National Obesity Forum fear parents are losing control over their children's eating habits. The Forum claims parents are buying food that

is not nutritionally balanced due to a lack of regulations in the food industry. And pocket money seems to be fuelling the problem also, with children skipping breakfast at home and buying snacks en route to school, according to a report by Kellogg's. "Obesity has increased due to the change in times. Lifestyles have changed - people use cars rather than walk, food choice is excessive and readily available," Lowdon explains. "Lack of activity can also determine weight increase. If energy input is greater than energy output then this is where problems arise."

Childhood obesity can be genetic, so if you have problems with your weight, you may hand them down to your children, Lowdon warns.

"There are increased chances that if the parents are overweight, the child's risk of obesity is higher."

Impact on children

Obesity not only affects a child's appearance, but it can also lead to serious health implications later in life. The trend of weight problems in children is a particular cause for concern because of evidence suggesting a 'conveyor-belt' effect in which excess weight in childhood continues into adulthood, says the Department of Health. Children suffering from severe weight gain will often also experience mental health problems. "The psychological problems a child goes through can be just as tormenting," says Lowdon. "A parent may see their child's behaviour change, such as low self-esteem, which may be down to not being as fit as other kids in the playground - at worst they can be a target of bullying."

What can you do?

Some parents are turning to anti-obesity drugs to combat the problem, but health organisation

NICE warns that such treatment should only be considered after dietary, exercise and behavioural approaches. Drugs are usually not recommended for children under 12 years of age. Parents are also being advised to rethink their child's sedentary habits. With PCs, computer games and TV programmes readily available in the homes, it's easy for kids to lose focus and become lazy. Government schemes around the country are attempting to combat obesity by introducing breakfast clubs at schools, so children do not miss out on their nutrients. Change4LifeChange4LifeChange4LifeChange4Life (www.nhs.uk/change4life) is an initiative for families to educate themselves and learn more about the 'five a day' vegetable and fruit intake and discover healthier eating options. Other schemes say that at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day should be undertaken by children. As much as there is temptation for your little ones, there is also support in the form of health visitors, school nurses, practice nurses or GPs, who will be able to provide advice and information on weight management. Read personal trainer Tanya Hurley’s article on page 26, where she gives some very poignant advice about how we can set a good example to our children.

18 Magascene

A child’s birthday only comes

around once a year, so you can

forgive parents for getting a little

carried away. Whether you’re a

brave soul who runs the gauntlet of

planning your own kid’s party - or

the type who comes out in a cold

sweat at the mere thought and has

the professionals on speed dial.

There’s no difference really. We all

want the same end result – the

most magical and memorable

party for our child. And therein lies

the rub.

For years now, parents have been

competing with each other to hold

the most fabulous parties. A kind

of ‘keeping up with Joneses’ for

the 4ft and under brigade.

Whether you hold the party in a

play centre, village hall or for the

very brave – at home, essentially

kids have five basic party require-

ments. I may well be doing myself

out of a job here, but it really does

boil down to these key elements to

ensure a successful party. And

they are (like on X-factor – I shall

reveal them in no particular order);

games, party food, birthday cake,

party bags and plenty of balloons.

There. I’ve said it – its not rocket

science after all.

So why do so many parents tie

themselves up in knots when plan-

ning a party? It comes down to (as

per many other things in life) to

time and budget. But if you get

organised about 6 weeks before-

hand, there is no need to wake up

at 3am – pulling your hair out about

whether little Johnny’s party is

going to trump his best friends two

weeks ago. After all, this isn’t

Come Dine With Me – none of the

parents present are going to hold

up score cards for food, venue or

entertainment. Mores the pity - as

I’d jump at the chance to be on

that particular show!

So instead of panicking about what

to do, sit down with your child and

discuss whether he/she has any

ideas for their party and then make

a plan from there. For example, if

they wanted to go on a pirate ad-

venture – there are so many

games, activities and props you

can use to make this fantasy a

reality. And if your imagination (or

time) won’t stretch that far – there’s

no shame in bringing in help

(professional or friends/family).

Also, send the invites out in plenty

of time, as you don’t want to go to

a lot of effort only to find that half

of Johnny’s class are away on

holiday. One final tip -ask friends

or other parents whether they can

recommend any venues or enter-

tainers – let them do your home-

work for you!

And for the goody bags? As irritat-

ing as a squashed piece of cake

and plastic toy are – its been

researched that this is what kids

expect to see in their bags. I once

watched twenty-five 4 year-olds

sigh collectively as one well mean-

ing mother handed out (the

shame) books at the end of her

daughter’s party. I even heard via

the party planning grapevine (or is

it an urban myth?) that one very

privileged child in Chelsea gave

his guests an iPod Nano instead of

a goody bag. Come on. Really?

What’s next? An all inclusive stay

at a certain 7-star hotel in Dubai or

a convertible sports car? The mind

boggles.

To use a familiar Jamie Oliver

quote – ‘lets go back to basics

people’. And throw parties that are

memorable for the right reasons –

because the kids all get stuck in,

have a good time and eat

squashed cake whilst playing with

a plastic toy in the car on the way

home.

Paula Francis is the Managing Director Paula Francis is the Managing Director Paula Francis is the Managing Director Paula Francis is the Managing Director

of BusyBees Parties. For details about of BusyBees Parties. For details about of BusyBees Parties. For details about of BusyBees Parties. For details about

party options and children’s workshops, party options and children’s workshops, party options and children’s workshops, party options and children’s workshops,

visit visit visit visit busybeeparties.co.ukbusybeeparties.co.ukbusybeeparties.co.ukbusybeeparties.co.uk

Do I really need to

put an iPod in my 2yr

old’s party bags? Paula Francis

BusyBee Parties Managing Director Paula Francis

19 Magascene

Learn to be more confident through singing and dancing

5-16 year-old girls and boys (Small classes to suit age and ability)

We believe EVERYBODY can learn to sing and dance. It’s fun—come along and try a FREE class!

Saturdays at Theydon Bois Primary School For information ring Trish on 01992 613074

Or email trishcole48@yahoo.co.uk

You don’t have to be able to sing

We will help you!

20 Magascene

Many parents are concerned about

the number of tests and exams

their children have to go through.

With SATs, GCSEs, and for some

students Entrance Exams, it

seems like children are always

preparing for one exam or another.

In the face of so many exams,

there is a temptation for parents to

rely on old-fashioned ‘cramming’

methods by way of exam

preparations. The result of this

approach is that tests can be seen

primarily as a series of hurdles to

be overcome rather than a part of

an overall process of learning and

experience. In order to avoid the

last minute cramming that puts

undue pressure on a child, parents

need to plan ahead and consider

getting help at least twelve months

before an exam.

If your child is struggling at school,

it may as result of not having

grasped skills or concepts further

back in their education. Without

these foundations on which to

build, work becomes increasingly

difficult to understand and students

fall further and further behind.

But where should parents go to

find tuition they can trust? The

Yellow Pages, newspapers and

the Internet all carry adverts for

private tutors, but tuition is an

unregulated industry and tutors are

not necessarily qualified teachers,

even those who register with

tuition agencies. Often there is no

attempt to diagnose an underlying

learning problem, so the gaps in

learning are not addressed and the

building of knowledge on shaky

foundations continues.

A recent trend in many parts of the

world, and now more common in

Britain, is the creation of specialist

education centres, such as the Kip

McGrath Education Centre, where

every child undergoes an assess-

ment before they begin lessons.

This preliminary assessment

enables the fully qualified teachers

to devise a personal learning pro-

gramme tailored to the child’s

individual needs.

During each 80 minutes lesson

students work on a number of

different activities and are taught

using a variety of resources. The

material is designed to motivate

and challenge whilst setting

achievable goals. All studying is

done in small groups-no more than

5 children to a teacher – and each

child works at their own pace and

on their own programme to ensure

understanding and retention. The

presence of other children at the

centre offers complete security,

comfort and support so that

students do not feel that they are

different or isolated. For parents,

this approach removes the

uncertainty attached to other forms

of coaching. By beginning with an

assessment, followed by a

personal learning programme and

individual attention from

professionally qualified teachers,

children are enabled to catch up,

regain their confidence and learn

the skills that will serve them well

throughout their time at school.

Tuition at Kip McGrath Loughton is

designed to be friendly, fun and

above all affordable to parents.

Seeing their child makes real and

lasting progress, and recovering

their keenness to learn is a real

reward. We are delighted to offer

local parents individual help and

attention for their child in a safe

and professional environment. To

find out more please contact your

local centre.

Avoiding the great

Exam cram Hannake Kluge—Kip McGrath Centre Director

21 Magascene

Loughton 020 8508 2090

Call now for a FREE assessment

SATs, GCSEs, 7+ and 11+

22 Magascene

Job opportunities also available

Fun all round gymnastic classes for boys &

girls of all abilities using the floor, bars, beam,

vault and trampet as well as games,

competitions and the British gymnastics

awards scheme.

For complete beginners to talented young stars

there is something for everyone and through our

FUN and energetic approach we ensure that

every child enjoys getting FIT!!

We run classes from 3 years to teens.

Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Saturdays at

Waltham Abbey Sports Centre.

Fridays at Loughton Leisure Centre.

Saturdays at Great Dunmow Leisure Centre.

23 Magascene

Black Ops at Laser Mayhem 14 of April 201114 of April 201114 of April 201114 of April 2011 Laser Mayhem has been the coolest place to have

your birthday party for a long time now, so what could

be better then combining Laser Mayhem and the

fastest selling computer game of all time Call of Duty:

Black Ops.

Laser Mayhem is proud to announce our latest Holi-

day Scenario day, Black Ops. On 14th April, as well

as normal Laser Tag games, they will be running

their usual incredibly popular Scenario day. Similar

to the usual normal laser tag events for children aged

7-14yrs old, scenario days are themed; with longer,

more exciting and more in-depth missions. You will

be thrown in to a whole new world of secret missions,

based on the computer game but situated in the

Laser Mayhem Universe with real Russian battle

tanks, armoured personal carriers, aeroplanes, heli-

copters and much, much more to hide behind and

play around. With awesome brand new cutting edge

technology equipment, Mayhem’s laser guns can

shoot your opponent up to 300m away with pinpoint

accuracy. With staff dressed up as characters from

the game and giving you missions and advice, you

will play the part of a foot soldier taking on various

missions based around the computer game Call of

Duty Black ops. Booking is recommended. Black Ops

is £18.50 per person for 3 hours of action and excite-

ment. Two available sessions (10am-1pm and 2 –

5pm. Please arrive 15 minutes early).

24 Magascene

CranioSacral TherapyCranioSacral TherapyCranioSacral TherapyCranioSacral Therapy … is the detection and readjustment of the rhythmic flow of the fluid which bathes our central nervous system from the head (cranium) to the base of our spine (sacrum),

through extremely gentle manipulation of the joints in the skull.

Paediatric CST - Many infant problems like colic, breathing difficulties, sleeplessness and irritability may result from craniosacral imbalances caused during birth. CST can help relieve these problems and commonly one or two sessions is all it takes.

Prenatal CST Will help your body adapt to being pregnant

Postnatal CST Will help you recover from the trauma of delivery

It works by using light touch and intention to help your body release the memory of physical, surgical, mental or emotional trauma trapped within that connective tissue. We tend to store memory of trauma both within the cranial vault and spinal cord and its sheath like covering (dura or meninges) and the fascia lining of our body. This localised tissue memory of trauma can tighten surrounding fascia creating pain, muscle tightness, joint misalignment and energy blocks.

Clinics in Epping and LoughtonClinics in Epping and LoughtonClinics in Epping and LoughtonClinics in Epping and Loughton Call Liam Hurley BSc (Hons) Call Liam Hurley BSc (Hons) Call Liam Hurley BSc (Hons) Call Liam Hurley BSc (Hons) ---- 07941 621887 07941 621887 07941 621887 07941 621887

Windy?

We’re not talking weather, we’re We’re not talking weather, we’re We’re not talking weather, we’re We’re not talking weather, we’re talking babies. By Liam Hurleytalking babies. By Liam Hurleytalking babies. By Liam Hurleytalking babies. By Liam Hurley How many of you have had, or know mates who have had, colicky or irritable infants. The babies cry in discomfort and are inconsolable. Heart-breaking! Who wouldn't, if they could, give that child some relief? Take them to the GP and often Baby Gaviscon is prescribed. Do you really want to medicate your baby if at all avoidable? Well, craniosacral therapy (CST) is a drug-free option that does help. The list of ailments that can be treated by craniosacral therapy includes colic, reflux, fractious-ness, glue ear, recurrent ear infec-tions, constipation, diarrhoea, torticollis, squints and can even be helpful with autism or behavioural

conditions. The really great thing is that babies respond really quickly to CST. In most of these conditions the infant will show a marked improvement after just one session. Its not just for the kids either, CST is great for adults, especially new mums, it helps all your bits to settle back to where they should be hav-ing been displaced or squashed throughout your pregnancy. It can help to bring your hormones back into a regular cycle and so speed you back to being you and enjoy-ing being a new mum. Incidentally in the months before you deliver your little bundle of joy, CST can help your body grow to accommodate the growing foetus and so make that time better for both you and baby. We in the UK have been quite slow to embrace alternative therapies to treat both ourselves and our babies. The use of craniosacral

therapy to treat colic is slowly gain-ing recognition from health visitors, mid-wives and some enlightened GPs but we are still a long way behind the continent. In France, for instance, new mums are routinely directed to the nearest cranial therapist for their new born to have evaluation and correction to pre-vent birthing issues becoming life long influences. It is to be hoped that craniosacral therapy will become an integral part of every maternity ward, and be acknowledged during the train-ing of all health and medical professionals working with preg-nant women, young babies and children.

Liam Hurley, BSc(Hons) Physiotherapy and CranioSacral

Practitioner. 07941 621887

Clinics in Epping and Loughton

25 Magascene

Great hair design and the luxurious salon experience is now a reality for teenagers at affordable prices.

Recognising how much interest there is from teenagers for the same level of salon experience their parents enjoy, Tikadi has come up with the ideal solution for young men and women in the area.

The Tikadi Teen Club is a brand new club for 13-19 year olds, available exclusively at the salon’s Theydon Bois and Ongar branches.

There is so much to benefit from by being a member. As well as receiving a fantastic free product on their first visit, club members also get:

• Exclusive offers

• Heavily discounted prices—e.g. a cut

& blow dry for just £20

• Hair design by qualified and

experienced stylists

• Discounts on products

• Free competitions and much more...

13 to 19 year-olds are invited to join FREE now by calling either the Theydon Bois salon on 01992 815700 or Ongar on 01277 366775 for more details. Or email info@tikadi.co.uk

SADDLERS HOUSE

COPPICE ROW

THEYDON BOIS

CM16 7ES

146-148

HIGH ST

ONGAR

CM5 9JH

www.tikadi.co.uk

26 Magascene

Professional & reliable

FREE collection & delivery Please call Faith Please call Faith Please call Faith Please call Faith

01992 522044 or or or or 07974 025381

I'm a firm believer that kids need to learn healthy

habits at a young age and that the whole family

needs to be physically active, but how well do we

sow the seeds for this? With childhood obesity on the

rise - are we as parents really setting the right

examples?

Now I'm not saying our kids need to see us running

5K every morning or jumping around doing a Davina

DVD, but making small everyday changes can make

a lasting impression. For instance taking our kids to

school - how many of us are guilty of living within

walking distance of school yet drive rather than walk

because it's the easier option? Good or bad example

we’re setting?

And when was the last time you and the family

explored the beautiful Epping Forest? There are

loads of fabulous trails which you can walk, cycle or

scooter. It’s an excellent way to get a child to exer-

cise and is a brilliant way for the family to do some-

thing together. As well as being fun they are also an

easy way to increase a child’s physical activity help-

ing them develop coordination and balance, work the

back muscle groups that aid good posture, and build

up leg muscles.

Lets not forget the added bonus of game consoles

too! Yes with the right game choice (and limiting

usage of course) I think they are awesome tools for

our kids. Playing the dance games as a family, letting

your kids see you jumping around having a hoot,

promotes all the right vibes for them to want to join in

and have fun whilst being active. Playing the sport

games raises their awareness of sports and may then

lead them to wanting to give it a go for real - brilliant.

So whatever it is that makes you and your family feel

that they are having fun whilst exercising – go and do

it. Set your children up for an active lifestyle where

they will be happy to walk further than just from the

front door to the car.

Tanya Hurley, Personal Trainer

07941 233880

Concept Fitness, 224 High Street, Epping, Essex

CM16 4AQ

www.conceptfitnessuk.com

Fun Family

Fitness Tanya Hurley

1/3rd off

children’s

clothes until the end of March

&

2-4-1

on all baby and toddler clothes

Parents—Tired of

ironing?

Special Offer

27 Magascene

Family Magascene directory

Clubs & SocietiesClubs & SocietiesClubs & SocietiesClubs & Societies FIT4FUN GYMNASTICS CLUBS FIT4FUN GYMNASTICS CLUBS FIT4FUN GYMNASTICS CLUBS FIT4FUN GYMNASTICS CLUBS are for boys and girls of all abilities age 3 years to teens, with classes running in Loughton, Waltham Abbey and Great Dunmow Leisure Centres. For more information or to book your child a FREEFREEFREEFREE session please call Jenny on 07956 41`7118 or email jenny_clark_fit4fun@hotmail.com

Catherine SheehyCatherine SheehyCatherine SheehyCatherine Sheehy————Singing Teacher Singing Teacher Singing Teacher Singing Teacher (Association of Teachers of Singing, Incorporated Society of Musicians, LAMDA and OCN accredited). Tel 07739 801676, email c.sheehy@tiscali.co.uk. Come and sing your favourite songs. Beginners of all ages welcome. Various genres including musical theatre, pop, RnB. Why not take part in future produc-tions, showcases and vocal exams. Classes in Epping on Fridays and Ching-ford on Saturdays—£6 for 45 minutes. Private lessons also held for all ages.

Girl Guiding in Epping Girl Guiding in Epping Girl Guiding in Epping Girl Guiding in Epping Rainbows (5-7 yr olds), Brownies (7-10 yr olds) and Guides (10-13 yr olds), Senior Section (14+). New leaders also desperately needed. Contact Emma Farra (District Commissioner) on 01992 573 210.

4th Epping Elm Cub Pack 4th Epping Elm Cub Pack 4th Epping Elm Cub Pack 4th Epping Elm Cub Pack (8-11 years boys and girls). New members welcome. Meet Stonards Hill, Epping Scout Hut. Thursdays 6.45pm to 8.15pm. Contact Tony Church 07725 608368.

The Dance Factory, Epping The Dance Factory, Epping The Dance Factory, Epping The Dance Factory, Epping Creating funky dance routines to chart music. £3.50 a lesson (45 mins) at Queens Hall Community Centre, North Weald. Mon-days (term time) between 4-6pm. Suitable for 4 to 14 year olds. Contact Mandy Bolding on 01992 524681 / 01992 524681 / 01992 524681 / 01992 524681 / 07976 786404.07976 786404.07976 786404.07976 786404.

Theydon Bois AstroKyds Theydon Bois AstroKyds Theydon Bois AstroKyds Theydon Bois AstroKyds for 6-14 year-olds meet 2nd Friday of month (term time), 6.30pm to 8pm at St. Mary’s Parish Hall, Theydon Bois. Tel. 01992 815804. www.las-astro.org.uk.

Guitar LessonsGuitar LessonsGuitar LessonsGuitar Lessons————Learn to play guitar. Learn to play guitar. Learn to play guitar. Learn to play guitar. All ages, abilities and styles. Experienced local teacher. Individual and group teaching. Christian Karlsson 07958 471083. Email: chris@stunningmusic.com

Singing and Dancing with Trish ColeSinging and Dancing with Trish ColeSinging and Dancing with Trish ColeSinging and Dancing with Trish Cole. Learn to be more confident through singing and dancing. 5 to 16 year-old girls and boys (small classes to suit age and ability). Saturdays Theydon Bois Primary School. Call Trish on 01992 613074 or email: trish-cole48@yahoo.co.uk

Push ItPush ItPush ItPush It————Buggy fitness class in Loughton for mums/dads to come along with baby in the buggies for a workout and to socialise. Classes Monday 2.30pm and Thursdays 10.30am from Roding Playing Fields, Loughton. Call 07500 847690. www.push-itfitness.co.uk

What’s OnWhat’s OnWhat’s OnWhat’s On Brentwood NCT Nearly New SaleBrentwood NCT Nearly New SaleBrentwood NCT Nearly New SaleBrentwood NCT Nearly New Sale————Sunday 27th MarchSunday 27th MarchSunday 27th MarchSunday 27th March, 10.30-12noon at Brentwood School Sports Centre (Courage Hall), Middleton Hall Lane, Brentwood CM15 8EE. Thousands of high quality, used baby and children’s clothing’ toys, nursery equipment etc. Café onsite serving light refreshments. 10am early entrance for NCT members. £1.50 admission. Stick Men and Other StoriesStick Men and Other StoriesStick Men and Other StoriesStick Men and Other Stories————Sunday Sunday Sunday Sunday 13th March 13th March 13th March 13th March at Epping Forest Visitor Centre, High Beach, Loughton IG10 4AE 12-3pm. A session of storytelling, in-cluding how to make your own ‘Stick Man’ to take home. Free drop-in event. Telephone 020 8508 0028 or visit www.cityoflondon.gov.uk Monster TrailMonster TrailMonster TrailMonster Trail————Sunday 13th March Sunday 13th March Sunday 13th March Sunday 13th March at Hainault Forest Country Park, Romford Roaed I7 4QN 10am-1pm. Join in for a walk along the new Hainault Forest ‘Monster Trail’ to see if you can find all the creatures lurking within and around the forest. Free event but booking essential on 07985 069800. Stewards Space Science EveningStewards Space Science EveningStewards Space Science EveningStewards Space Science Evening———— Wednesday 16th March, Wednesday 16th March, Wednesday 16th March, Wednesday 16th March, 6-8pm at Stew-ards School Science Specialist, Parnel Road, Harlow CM18 7NQ. Free event. Hands on space related activities for talks (as part of National Science and

Engineering Week). No booking re-quired.

City of London SinfoniaCity of London SinfoniaCity of London SinfoniaCity of London Sinfonia–––– Sunday 27th Sunday 27th Sunday 27th Sunday 27th MarchMarchMarchMarch Pre-concert Family Fun 2.30-4.30pm. St John’s ARC—St John’s Walk, Market Street, Old Harlow. Family pre-concert workshop and concert ticket £20. Family friendly games, crafts and activi-ties to introduce children and adults to the composers and pieces the Orches-tra will play in the concert, which fol-lows this workshop. CLS musicians will be on hand to introduce their instru-ments and join in the workshops from 3.30pm onwards. City of London Sinfo-nia concert 5pm. Adult ticket price £12, under 18s concert ticket £5. To book, call St John’s ARC on 01279 442447 or email: email@stjohnsarc.org.uk Steam Open DaySteam Open DaySteam Open DaySteam Open Day———— Sunday 3rd April at Sunday 3rd April at Sunday 3rd April at Sunday 3rd April at Ilford and West Essex Model Railway Ilford and West Essex Model Railway Ilford and West Essex Model Railway Ilford and West Essex Model Railway Club 10.30am to 4pmClub 10.30am to 4pmClub 10.30am to 4pmClub 10.30am to 4pm.. Next to Chad-well Heath Station, Station Road, Rom-ford Rm6 4BU. Rides on Gauge Line Steam Miniature Railway. Train rides 50p,, or £3 for all day pass. Refresh-ments available. Loughton Festival Animal FairLoughton Festival Animal FairLoughton Festival Animal FairLoughton Festival Animal Fair–––– Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday 9th April 9th April 9th April 9th April at Wesley Hall, Loughton Meth-odist Church, Loughton High Road IG10 1RB. 11am-2pm. Free entry (donations to Guide Dogs for the Blind). Free advice from Goddards the Vets, so bring your dog along. Farm Open DayFarm Open DayFarm Open DayFarm Open Day————Sunday 10th April Sunday 10th April Sunday 10th April Sunday 10th April at Lambourne End Centre, Manor Road, Lambourne End RM4 1NB. A fantastic day for all the family to meet the ani-mals, have a ride on a pony and cart and enjoy a fun day at the farm. 11am—3pm. Free entry and parking (small charges for refreshments and pony and cart ride).

28 Magascene

Family Magascene directory

Flyaway KatieFlyaway KatieFlyaway KatieFlyaway Katie—presented by Epping presented by Epping presented by Epping presented by Epping Forest Arts and Long Nose Puppets. Forest Arts and Long Nose Puppets. Forest Arts and Long Nose Puppets. Forest Arts and Long Nose Puppets. Wednesday 13th April Wednesday 13th April Wednesday 13th April Wednesday 13th April 11am & 2pm at Theydon Bois Village Hall, Coppice Row, Theydon Bois CM16 7ER. Flyaway Kate is an inspiring flight of fancy about the power of imagination based on the popular children’s book by Polly Dunbar (pictured below) with music by Tom Gray of Gomez. The show is aimed at 2-7 year-olds and will be 30 minutes long followed by a 15 minute ‘meet the puppets’ session. £5 per ticket. Book-ing essential: 01992 564226.

Lift OffLift OffLift OffLift Off!—presented by Epping Forest presented by Epping Forest presented by Epping Forest presented by Epping Forest Arts. Monday 11th to Wednesday 13th Arts. Monday 11th to Wednesday 13th Arts. Monday 11th to Wednesday 13th Arts. Monday 11th to Wednesday 13th April April April April (3 day activity) 10am-3.30pm at St. Michael and All Angels Church Hall, Roding Road, Loughton, IG10 3EJ. Use myth, magic and mystery to lead your audience to strange new worlds….and back again! Working with professional artists, you will create your own short production and after three fun-packed days put on a performance for family and friends to watch. With drama, dance, video, music, costume and set design, there be lots of activities to try. Remember to bring a packed lunch wear and comfortable clothes. Full price £45 / £25 concession. To book, call 01992 564226.

What’s On What’s On What’s On What’s On Harlow Playhouse www.playhouseharlow.com Box office 01279 431945

Fireman Sam LiveFireman Sam LiveFireman Sam LiveFireman Sam Live————Pontpandy Rocks! Pontpandy Rocks! Pontpandy Rocks! Pontpandy Rocks! Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th MarchSaturday 12th & Sunday 13th MarchSaturday 12th & Sunday 13th MarchSaturday 12th & Sunday 13th March, 1pm & 3.30pm. The hero next door is back in a brand new show live on stage—Pontpandy rocks! £12 adult, £10 child. £40 family ticket.

Science Museum Live on TourScience Museum Live on TourScience Museum Live on TourScience Museum Live on Tour————Explosive Explosive Explosive Explosive entertainment for all the family (suitable entertainment for all the family (suitable entertainment for all the family (suitable entertainment for all the family (suitable for 7+ years). Friday 18th and Saturday for 7+ years). Friday 18th and Saturday for 7+ years). Friday 18th and Saturday for 7+ years). Friday 18th and Saturday 19th March19th March19th March19th March. Experience spectacular science, dangerous demonstrations and extraordinary experiments as London’s world-famous Science Museum takes to the stage for the first time with a spec-tacular show to blow your mind and challenge your brain. £12.50. March 18th 7pm, March 19th 2pm and 6pm.

Phoenix Theatre ShowcasePhoenix Theatre ShowcasePhoenix Theatre ShowcasePhoenix Theatre Showcase————Primary Primary Primary Primary Drama. 2nd April, 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Drama. 2nd April, 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Drama. 2nd April, 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Drama. 2nd April, 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Students from Phoenix Theatre take their annual opportunity to showcase the performance skills they have been hon-ing over the last few months. £6. Beauty and the BeastBeauty and the BeastBeauty and the BeastBeauty and the Beast————Sunday 10th April Sunday 10th April Sunday 10th April Sunday 10th April to Monday 18th April (excluding Tues-to Monday 18th April (excluding Tues-to Monday 18th April (excluding Tues-to Monday 18th April (excluding Tues-day 12th April), 2.30pm & 7.30pm. day 12th April), 2.30pm & 7.30pm. day 12th April), 2.30pm & 7.30pm. day 12th April), 2.30pm & 7.30pm. This colourful production from the same company that brought you Aladdin and

The Wizard of Oz features Melissa Suf-field (Eastender’s Lucy Beale), Danielle McCormack (My Parents Are Alien’s Mel Baker and Jonny Freeman (M.I.High’s Frank London). £17 (£15 conc.) Harlow Ballet AssociationHarlow Ballet AssociationHarlow Ballet AssociationHarlow Ballet Association————CinderellaCinderellaCinderellaCinderella Thursday 21st to Sunday 24th April Thursday 21st to Sunday 24th April Thursday 21st to Sunday 24th April Thursday 21st to Sunday 24th April (7.30p + 2.30pm Sat/Sun matinees). Treat for the whole family—beautiful music and dancing. £12 (£8 child) and 2-4-1 offer on the Thursday.

Film and TV CrosswordFilm and TV CrosswordFilm and TV CrosswordFilm and TV Crossword————Compiled by Kitty SmithCompiled by Kitty SmithCompiled by Kitty SmithCompiled by Kitty Smith

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AcrossAcrossAcrossAcross 3. This is a 3D movie and they are cartoon. They are in a very cold place and there is a squirrel who tries to get a nut but can’t (3, 3 letters) 4. The chef at ‘The Krusty Krab’ (8 letters) 7. A girl called Sophie sings ‘Honey, Honey’ in this film (5, 3 letters) 9. A big, fat ogre whose friends are Donkey and Puss in Boots (5 letters) DownDownDownDown 1. An uplifting film with lots of balloons (2 letters) 2. Cartoon TV and movie with yellow people (The ________ 8 letters) 5. This character has a friend called Boo Boo (4, 4 letters) 6. A magical nanny the kids don’t like at first, but all do in the end (5, 6 letters) 8. A lost princess and a man called Flynn are in this film (7 letters)