Mum's Diary North Somerset May June 2013

MAY/JUNE 2013

THE NUMBER ONE MAGAZINE FOR MUMS ALL OVER NORTH SOMERSETFREE!

www.mums-diary.co.uk

Are you super sizingyour toddler’s food?

FATHER’S DAYgift ideas

When is it safe to exerciseafter childbirth?

• Baby show tickets• Bespoke cake

• Music classes & more!

2 www.mums-diary.co.uk

WelcomeWith the

summerfinally on

the horizon - and letshope its a good one- there are loads ofactivities, classesand fun ideas in this edition to keep youbusy.

We’ve also got some heart-warming storiesfrom local mums about their experiencesdealing with issues like infertility and ME.

We’ve redesigned our diary listings afterfeedback from readers on our readersurvey. We hope you like it!

Thanks to all the readers that havecontributed to the magazine with photos,stories and some great tips for our HealthyFood Fight - keep them coming.

Now the sun is shining, make sure youmake the most of it and get out and about.We’re building a days out section on ourwebsite, so if you’d like to send us your topdays out please do and we can share themwith other mums. As ever, if you have anysuggestions or ideas for things you’d like tosee in Mum’s Diary, do get in touch.

In this issueNews................................................5-7

Competitions...................................8-9

Readers’ Photos...........................10-11

Father’s Day.................................12-13

Healthy Food Fight......................14-15

Mummy must-haves...................18-19

Charity mums and dads...................21

Bloggers’ Network............................23

Dive straight in - a dad’s view...........24

Classes to try................................26-28

Homeopathy Corner........................31

Mums Mean Business..................32-33

Schools and Nurseries.................34-37

Foster Care Fortnight...................38-39

Real life stories...................................40

Crafty Corner....................................41

Make a Mum.....................................42

Mum’s Diary.................................43-53

Mum’s Directory................................54

Clare, Jake& Harry

Disclaimer: Any material submitted for publication is sent at the owner’sown risk and Mum’s Diary does not accept liability for loss or damage.We take every care in producing this magazine but we cannot be heldresponsible for claims of advertisers nor the accuracy of the contents orfor any consequence.

www.mums-diary.co.uk 3

Front page photo of Daisy and Jacob Oliverand photo above by Wang Tat Yeung fromwww.clicktatphotography.com

Editor & mum

e Sign up toe-news

Contact usEmail [email protected] to Mum’s Diary, 54 George St,Weston-super-Mare, BS23 3ASCall 07909 903120Log on www.mums-diary.co.uk

News For regular news updates log on to www.mums-diary.co.uksign up to our weekly e-newsletter and follow us on Facebook


Safe street play foryour children

The first North Somerset Playing Outsession has taken place in Byron Close,Locking village.

The Playing Out Project involves closingresidential streets to cars for a few hours sothat children can play safely right outsidetheir homes.

Parent organiser Lenna Harris said: “It wasan unbelievable success that we mustrepeat!

“The street closure took place for just acouple of hours and it wasn’t just the childrenwho had fun.

“Often we just don’t see our neighbours soit was good to have a street gathering whilethe children did what comes natural and justplayed out.”

Byron Close is the first street in NorthSomerset to take out the temporary streetclosure order.

If you would like to activate street play inyour community and have friends andneighbours keen to get things moving [email protected] or call 01275885143 to find our more.

For more about thePlaying Out project visitwww.playingout.netMums of Bridgwater is organising its

first Somerset Pregnancy and BabyFair on May 18.

The fair, taking place at Somerset CollegeAcademy, Bridgwater, will bring pregnancyand baby-related businesses andcompanies together under one roof.

Sponsored by Nuk, Pic n Clix Photographyand Spontex, the event will run from 10am-4pm and there will be goodie bags for thefirst 200 people through the door.

Exhibitors include Mum’s Diary, Little PegsClothing, Smallprint, Little Impressions, ThePositive Birth Movement, Rainbow Bakes, StJohn Ambulance and many more.

Mums of Bridgwater is a non-profitorganisation set up for mums of all ages inand around Bridgwater.

All profit made by the SomersetPregnancy and Baby Fair will be going tothis group.

The aim of the group is to help mumsbuild up the confidence to go out andmeet new people as well as making agreat group of friends. They run regularevents all over the area from nearly newsales to coffee mornings and outings to softplay centres.

Entry will be £1 per adult with a freegoody bag to the first 200 people throughthe door.

Find out more on their Facebook page.

Somerset Pregnancyand Baby Fair

News


Surprise for FinleyA little boy from Clevedon got a big surprise when hewent down to his local library.

The Bookstart Bear was visiting Clevedon Library andpresented a special gold Bookstart Bear Clubcertificate to Finley.

Three-and-a-half-year-old Finley has been comingto Clevedon library, with mum Georgina Greenwood,since he was two. She said: “He loves to come to thelibrary every week for story time and to choose booksto take home. His favourite is The Gruffalo by JuliaDonaldson. When we started to come along I used tochose books for him but what is really encouraging isthat he now likes to choose them himself.

“I think this scheme is agreat way of encouragingchildren to use libraries.”

Finley has been amember of the BookstartBear Club since it started inFebruary last year andenjoys getting his pawstamps in his passporteach time he attends storytime and shares somebooks.

Bookstart is a nationalprogramme thatencourages parents andcarers to share books with children from an early age.Bookstart provides children with packs to help themlearn to love reading.

The Bookstart Bear Club is a free and fun club toencourage children of pre-school age to enjoy theirvisits to the library with their parent or carer and enjoysharing books. When children join the club at theirlocal library, they will receive a pack including acertificate, a special passport, a bookmark and adoor hanger. Children collect a stamp on theirpassport when they return their books or when theyattend a story time or rhymetime session.

Further details about Bookstart and story times andrhymetimes at your local library can be found inMum’s Diary or at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/bookstartor contact 01934 426 010.

New group forsingle parentsNorth Somerset NCT has introduced a newgroup for single parents.

Being a parent is one of the hardest jobsaround, so trying to do it on your own is amassive challenge, that can mean things getneglected and those things are often you andyour social life.

Now there is an answer, or at least a chancefor you to meet other people in your situation,to share stories, support each other, give ideasand have days and nights out.

The group will meet on Mondays from10:30am - 12.00pm at Christchurch, Nailsea.

Whether you are pregnant, have children,younger or older, have just moved to the areaor feel isolated and want to meet new people,the group has something to offer. Toys areprovided for the little ones to play with as wellas refreshments for adults and children.

For more information join the Facebook groupNCT North Somerset Single Parents Group oremail [email protected].


From the makers of Peppa Pigand the producers of the two

hugely successful Peppa Pigtheatre tours comes the firstever stage version of the BAFTAaward-winning TV animation,Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom.And we have tickets to giveaway!

We have two family tickets(a family ticket is for 4 people,

minimum 1 adult) up for grabs for Wednesday15th May at 1pm at The Bristol Hippodrome.

For further show information and tour dates visitwww.benandhollylive.com

Win tickets to seeBen & Holly!

To stand a chance of winning one of our amazingprizes this month:

Just visit www.mums-diary.co.ukand enter your details on our competitions page

Or email [email protected] your name, address and contact details

Or post your name and addressto us at 54 George Street,Weston-super-Mare, BS23 3AS

Win Baby Show tickets!The Baby Show – the

UK’s biggest and bestpregnancy andparenting event – returnsto the NEC Birminghamfrom 17 to 19 May 2013.

A unique shoppingopportunity and a greatday out for all the family– it’s the place to browse thousands of products fromhundreds of trusted brands and test run all the latestinnovations that will make life with a new baby easy andfun. The Baby Show and Mum’s Diary are offering 5 luckywinners 2 adult entry tickets to the show on any day.

If you can’t wait to win, Mums’ Diary is offering afantastic 40% off adult entry tickets (door price £20.00,discounted ticket offer £11.50). To take advantage of thisoffer, visit www.thebabyshow.co.uk and enter PromoCode LH001.

WIN a family ticket to

We have two family tickets to be wonfor Bridgwater’s amazing Willow Play

Village based in Wylds Road.The Play Village offers some great deals

on children’s parties, fun activities - andeven boasts their own preschool setting.

For further information visit their website:www.thewillowplayvillage.com


Win a stunning creationfrom the Ladybird CakeCompany

Lego men, Peppa Pig, Scooby Doo – you namethe theme and the Ladybird Cake Companycan produce a stunning, hand crafted cake to

celebrate your special day.The home-based cake business is run locally by

talented North Somerset mum Liz Compton. Liz offersa completely bespoke cake or cupcake serviceand specialises in children’s birthday cakes.Although still only in her first year of business, Liz’scakes have already appeared in the Edible ArtistsNetwork Magazine.

Although the decoration of the cakes makes abig impact, equally asimportant to Liz is the taste. Soshe uses the best qualityingredients: real butter, sugarflavoured with Madagascanvanilla, freshly madebuttercream and free rangeeggs. Flavour options for large cakes includetraditional vanilla sponge, Madeira sponge, richchocolate cake and light fruit cake.

For more details visitwww.ladybirdcakecompany.co.uk or check outsome of Liz's latest cakes on Facebook(LadybirdCakeCompany).

One lucky Mum's Diary reader will win an 8”round cake in chocolate or vanilla and decoratedin a theme of the winner’s choice including 1modelled sugarcraft figure. OR £45 towards the costof a bigger/more elaborate cake. (Dates aresubject to availability – [email protected] to checkavailability of your preferred date). Enter now byemailing [email protected] or visit ourcompetitions page online at www.mums-diary.co.uk

Those that are not successful will receive anoffer from Ladybird Cake Company.

Let’s Go Bananas is thenew music class for

babies and toddlers inWeston!

Carly Wills, who runs themusical education classes,is offering one lucky readerthe chance to give thecourse a go with three freeclasses!

The classes take place at VintageCommunity Church in Hughenden Road at 9.40am or10.30am.

The normal cost for classes is £4.20 per child and£2.20 for siblings and it is a pay as you go class.

For more details visit www.letsgobananas.net or call07871 206810.

Win free classes withLet’s Go Bananas

Be next month’sfront cover star!See your little one on the

front of the next Mum’sDiary. Every issue of

Mum’s Diary has a local littleone on the front and manyreaders have nowwon the front cover shootand seen their children onthe front of thousands ofmagazines distributed allacross North Somerset.

The winner is picked atrandom and has a freephoto shoot with local children’sphotographer Click Tat Photography in yourown home. One of the final images will then appearon the front cover of the next Mum’s Diary.

To get your little one entered just email [email protected] with the name and age of your child. Visitwww.clicktatphotography.com for more about ourfabulous competition partner Click Tat Photography.

£10 voucher to spendat Crafty MonkeyCrafty Monkey are offering Mum’s Diary readers a

chance to win a £10 voucher for use in the store.Crafty Monkey, Weston’s only ceramic and Build a

Bear studio, is under the new ownership of Gemmaand her partner Kevin. They have introduced lateopening hours until 8pm on Wednesdays, as well as aKids Club once a month on a Sunday from 2.30pmwith a different activity each time.

For more details visitwww.craftymonkeystudio.co.uk

Send your photos [email protected]


Aarav, 6 months

Abigail Jane Hendy, 5 monthsBeau Brown, 29 months

Caleb Coates, 7 monthsDaisy Summer Cook, 6 months

Edith, Isaac and George LedburyHallie Taylor, 6 weeks

Joseph, 5 months

Stanley Dodd, 7 months

Sendyourfavouritephoto [email protected]


Harry, 2 years

Harry, 8 days

Hillard and Evie-May Cutler

Loghan-Rose Wilmot,2 and a half years

Zack and Evan Holt

Don’t forget -you may seeyour little onein print bysending usyourfavouritephoto [email protected]

The rightblend

ONE FORTHE DADS

Say cheers to your dadthis Father’s Day with ahand-picked bottle justfor him.

The Wine Tasting Cowill ensure you takehome a gift that will re-ally make Dad smile.They sell a great rangeof tipples and spirits in-cluding Co-gnacs andPorts.

Kelli, whoopened theshop in Wood-borough Road, Winscombe, earlier thisyear, will be happy to chat with you tofind a great tasting drink your dad willlove.

For a very personal and uniquepresent, you can hold a wine-tastingevening – your dad will enjoy a greatopportunity to socialise, sample a host ofdifferent tipples and compare notes onthe wines.

Kelli will arrange it at your home orvenue of your choice and ensure every-one has fun whilst learning how to tastewine.

Visit www.thewinetastingco.com orcall 01934 708312.

Victoria’s Keepsakes has created ahandcrafted and completelyunique gift for dads to celebrateFather’s Day.

The twisted, leather bracelet isdecorated with a silver imprint ofyour children's hand or foot prints,fingerprints or even drawings. Apresent to keep forever.

Victoria Dodd, who runs the com-pany, also produces pendents, key-rings, cufflinks and otherpersonalised products.

The mum-of-three said: “Eachpiece of jewellery is unique andmade from 99.9% pure silver.

“The child’s fingerprint can beimprinted directly into the clay or I

can post you a fingerprint kit which is very easy to use.“I then cut it to shape, leave to dry and fire it before polish-

ing the imprint to as high a quality as possible.”For more details call Victoria on 07515118950 visit Victoria’s

Facebook page or email [email protected]

A gift fora lifetime

Ideal for mini masterpiecesLooking for the perfect Father’s Daypresent? Create a present any dadwould love to receive with a uniquepair of silver cufflinks that captureyour child’s fingerprint.

The range can accommodate upto four children’s fingerprints. Varietyof shapes include square, oblong,oval and button. As well as cufflinks, doting dadsand granddads may enjoy Smallprint’s beautifulcollection of individually handcrafted keyrings, dogtags, pendants, charms - showcasing your child’s

fingerprint, hand or footprint foreverin pure silver.

If your little one is a buddingPicasso, why not take a look at theMini Masters range, which puts aperfect replica of their drawings onto the silver keepsake.

For more information visitwww.smallprint.com or contact Lisa on 07515 374054or [email protected]. Also find out how toreceive up to 25% off when you host a Smallprintparty!

Perfect ideasYour Crafty Monkey can make aunique Father’s Day gift withhelp from the popular studio inWeston.

Your child can make a presentto last a lifetime by decorating orhand-printing a mug, cider tankard,photo frame or cufflinks.

The studio in Oxford Street has achoice of over 100 pottery items fromanimals to money boxes to personalise.

The friendly staff can help with design ideas and yourfinished piece will be glazed, fired and ready for collection injust a few days.

Your child’s foot and handprints can also be captured inbeautiful silver jewellery.

Whatever your child’s age, their print can be made intoa keyring, cufflink or dog tags – perfect for dads. Ceramic diskcufflinks are also available.

For more information visit www.craftymonkeystudio.co.uk



A premier attractionPremier Leisure in Weston-super-Mare offers

three action packed indoor activities that anydad would love and can keep both adults and

children excited all day. Indoor Karting, Paintballingand Laser Quest are all on offer and are a “must do”for any visitors to, or residents of, Weston-super-Marelooking for an adrenalin rush.

The indoor karting track spans three levels andcan accommodate any number of racers at a timeand Premier Leisure are able to tailor different racepackages for larger parties by setting upqualification heats.

Junior Karts are also available for those under theage of 16. Children must be over 4 feet 3 inches talland the Race Director must be satisfied yourchildren can reach and operate the pedals.

Laser Quest is a great non-contact game for thewhole family or groups of children aged 6 years andupwards. You earn points for shooting anotherplayers laser pack and lose points for every timeanother player shoots yours. Each game lastsapproximately 20 minutes which includes the safetybriefing and installation of Laser Quest packs.

Premier Leisure is one of the few venuesthroughout the UK where you can paintball indoors

instead of running around in a cold muddy forest.You won’t get cold and wet, but neither do you missout on anything as you get all the great specialeffects that an indoor facility has to offer. Thebattleground is covered by a state of the art audiovisual system and smoke machines adding to theexperience. The room which covers 10,000 squarefeet is filled with bunkers, barricades, trenches andhideouts. For safety reasons, the minimum age forthis game is 12 years.

Find out more by visiting their website:www.premierleisure-wsm.co.uk

How it all startedFather’s Day started with a woman. The idea forcreating a day for children to honour theirfathers began with a woman named SonoraSmart Dodd. Sonora loved her father and, whilelistening to a Mother’s Day sermon in 1909, shefelt fatherhood should be recognised too.

Through her influence, the Spokane MinisterialAlliance decided to hold the first Father’s Daycelebration on June 19, 1910 in Spokane,Washington.

The tradition spread and now dozens ofcountries around the world celebrate Father’sDay every year.

Welcome to the Mum’s Diary 2013 campaignto encourage healthier eating for our kids.

Readers are always telling us they want morerecipe ideas, particularly healthy ones, and we allknow about the importance of giving our childrena healthy start in life.

In each issue of Mum’s Diary, with the help ofnutritionist Juliette Grove, we will be bringing youinformation, news and ideas all about how to giveyour children a healthier chance in life. If youhave ideas or questions let us know and we willshare them with other readers and find outanswers - email us at info@mums- diary.co.uk

How much should mytoddler be eating?There has been a lot of talk on portion size in the

press recently and how much we are feeding ourtoddlers and little people.

Are we unknowingly super sizing our toddlers plates?It can be confusing how much we should be feedingour children and they are all so different with varyingappetites.

The following information from MEND is a guide linefor 2-4 year olds and you may need to adapt theamounts to suit your child.


STARCHES - Aim to serve a starchy food at each meal time• Bread 1-2 slices • Rice, pasta, noodles 1-2 cooked tbsps •Mashed potato 1-2 tbsps • Cereal 2-6 tbsps or 1-1.5 Weetabix

PROTEINS - Aim to serve 1-2 times per day• Meat 1-2 tbsps • Eggs 1 • Tuna 1-2 tbsps • Fish fingers 1-2 •Baked beans 2-3 tbsps

DAIRY - Aim to serve 3 times in a day• Milk as a drink 120ml • Cheese 25-40gm • Yogurt one pot 120-150gm

FRUIT AND VEG - Serve at each meal or snack time, - 5 per day• Pure fruit juice 150ml diluted 1 part to 10 parts water • Tomatoes1-2 • Half an apple, pear, banana which can be chopped or sliced• Seedless grapes 6-15 • Vegetables 1-2 tbsps

• Try not to compare your child with yourfriends’ children. All children of this age eatand require different amounts. Some largerand some much smaller.• Start with a smaller portion, especially whenintroducing something new. If they like it theymay even ask for more.

• Their appetites could vary each day.Toddlers often have their own agenda! Oneday they love banana and the next it’s theworst thing ever. Be patient and re introduceat a later date.• Encourage your child to help you choosehealthy foods in the shop and cook at home.

PORTION GUIDE FOR 2-4 YEAR OLDS AN EXAMPLE LUNCH

+

Tips for mums and dads By Juliette Grove

If you have a tip to shareemail [email protected]


Foody tips from readers

The principle of Bento style eating is so simple and so rewarding foryour children. They get to be more adventurous with food andyou receive masses of appreciation for their meals!

Bento is all about presenting food in an appealing manner in smallquantities. Perfect for little fussy fingers.

Here are my basic tips for getting started.• Stock up your cupboards and keep ideas cards like a recipe file

so you don't feel pressured to think of something last minute.• Be creative. Soon they will be too cool for school and silly notes

and character or cookie cutter sandwiches. Enjoy this time!• Keep portions small. Remember one 5 a day portion is equivalent

to their fist not yours. Keep amounts of new foods limited too. If theyare a success try more next time.

• Don't give up after one day. Remember baby weaning? You areencouraged by health professionals to try giving them the same foodover a dozen times before you can safely say they don't like it!

• Presentation is key. Raid your plastic box drawer, find some littlepots or invest in some quirky bottles and silicone cups. I bought mineon ebay for under £2!

• Think colour. Would you want to eat a plate of beige? The morecolour lunches have, the more attractive they are to little ones!

Encourage feedback. I have included blank faces so Sammy canlet me know how much he enjoyed it.

Chop on the cautious side. My boys are put off when they see agiant stick of cucumber but wolf it down when it is in little pieces.

You don't have to buy a specific kit you just need to beadventurous. Raid your storage boxes, your cake making box anduse your imagination. Silicone cake cups are perfect as they keeptheir shape but can be squeezed into tight spaces. I have someanimal plastic pots I bought in the local pound shop which makegreat containers.

Lucy is posting a new lunch box idea every week on her blogwww.capturebylucy.com

Brighten up your lunch box! By Lucy Heath

by mum-of-two Emma Allen

I give my six-year-old hisdose of veg raw while he'swaiting for dinner to becooked. It also stops himfrom moaning about beinghungry and 'is dinner readyyet?'

Children often dislike the texture andconsistency of cooked veg. The crunchiness ofraw veg is much more attractive to a small child,and the colours are better too!

He'll happily eat a small bowl of raw veg whenhe's hungry but if I put the same amount on hisplate he'd not only struggle to get through it buthe'd also eat his rice/pasta/potatoes/meat firstand then claim he was full up.

There's also extra nutrients in raw veg beforeany of the goodness has been cooked out.

Raw veggie ‘treats’ Smoothies smooth the wayby mum-of-three Louise Simpson

Keep your cupboards and freezer stockedwith fruit as well as buying fresh.

Frozen fruit is great for whizzing up with yoghurtand ice cubes to make a smoothie.

It looks like a treat to my kids because theythink it’s like a milkshake and they love trying tohelp makethem too.

We playaround withwhateverfruit we havearound, butif we’ve runout, tinnedfruit is agreat fallback.

We grow seasonalorganic veg,deliver it free to

your door and give youlots of recipes to help youenjoy it. It’s like havingyour own allotment,without the digging.

As farmers we’re proudto have mud on our boots. We’ve beengrowing the very best organic vegetables andsalads for nearly 25 years. Picked from the fieldand delivered direct to your door.

Unlike supermarket veg which can languishfor days before reaching you, our vegboxes arehand packed and delivered, often within 48hours of the veg being picked. As we groweverything organically, Riverford produce iscompletely natural food too, being free fromartificial fertilisers and other chemicals. The fruitand veg is grown for flavour rather thancosmetic perfection, and as we stick to theseasons, your vegbox will always contain what’sat its very best during the year.

With a wide range of vegboxes to suitdifferent households, they also offer great value.Many of our customers also say they savemoney, by making fewer trips to thesupermarket. There’s no need to be home whenwe deliver (we’ll leave it wherever you want),and there’s no tie in for a delivery every weekeither. With free creative recipes and farm newswith every vegbox and a wide range of otherorganic produce in our online shop, seasonaleating with Riverford makes eating well easy.

Come and find us at the North SomersetAgricultural Show this year. You’ll spot our greengazebo near the food tent.


Like having your ownallotment but withoutthe digging!

Can't imagine passing on your child's babygrows?Do you have their treasured items hiding away in the atticor under the bed?

The babygrow you brought baby home from hospital in,that pink dress your daughter wore to a party, or the bluedungarees your son wore on his first picnic?

Let Memory Boutique transform your child's clothing intolasting memories that can be treasured forever.

The business was set up in 2012 by Portishead mumKaren Hallam, who has a daughter and son, Maisie andTheo. Karen couldn’t bring herself to pass on all of the baby growsand clothes that held so many memories of her children growing up,so came up with some innovative ways to keep those memories.

Karen takes your little one's special items and can make them intobeautiful memory bunting, a memory bear, or amemory box to last a lifetime. Each item is handmadeand you can use a mix of fabrics and colours.

Memory bears are just £35 and measure approx.48cm, a real treasure. Memory bunting adds apersonal touch to any child’s bedroom and costs £29for around 160cm.

Memory boxes start from £19 and feature yourchild's name on the front in wooden lettering or feltbacked card, along with wording of your choice suchas date of birth and weight. You can then fill it with allyour special treasures.

Delivery is free and is sent by recorded delivery.For more details and to see examples of Karen’s

work call Karen on 07545 331927, or [email protected]

Mummymust-haves

Your memories all sewn up

My Buggy BuddyMy Buggy Buddy Clips are the best way of hanging bags and shopping from the

pram handle. The foam covering prevents any marking of the handle and stopsthe bags moving.

Available in black, pink and blue these clips have achieved two recognisedawards.

My Buggy Buddy also produce bottle holders, buggy locks and buggy weightsdesigned to prevent your buggy tipping backwards.

My Buggy Buddy Clips are available at The Children Company in The Centre,Weston-super-Mare. Find them on Facebook.


The thought of potty training is a daunting one, with parents oftenquestioning ‘how do I start?’ Many parents look for products on themarket that will help them to quickly achieve their goal, particularly

as the upkeep of nappies is an expensive one.The Victoria Chart Company’s Ultimate Potty Training reward chart

supports families from the very start and through to the successfulcompletion of potty training. It acknowledges the important steps withbright, eye-catching reusable stickers - appealing for any toddler to trytheir best.

Included with the chart are the ‘10 positive steps to successful pottytraining': these include how to plan for the task ahead, preparing yourchild, the importance of family involvement, key tips to using the chartand achieving best results.

All in all this complete pack truly makes it 'The UltimatePotty Training Reward Chart'!

Available for £11.50 fromwww.victoriachartcompany.co.uk

One tiny kick or a tug at the toes and they’reoff – and of course only one sock from everypair gets lost!

With Sock Ons you will never worry about missingsocks or cold toes again.

Sock Ons are made from soft, stretchy material andare worn over regular socks, holding them firmly inplace no matter how hard your baby kicks or pulls atthem. This simple, yet ingenious invention was made by

mum Kezi Levin, who has six small boys.She decided to do something abouther family’s every increasing sock bill.

Sock Ons, which are available ina range of bright colours and styles,have gone through years ofresearch and development andthe result is a funky and

fashionable product thatactually works!

From the same family nowalso come Mocc Ons -moccasin style slipper socks,designed to fit baby from sixmonths up to three years.

Both are essential itemsthat no baby (or sane parent)can do without!

For more details visitwww.sockons.co.uk

must-haves

The ultimate potty training reward chart

Clever little things thatkeep babysocks on &little toeswarm!


MONDAYCheddarCatholic Hall, Tweentown5.30pm or 7.30pmTel: Cathy - 07971 575158

NailseaScotch Horn Leisure9.30am or 11.30amTel: Sharon - 07917304032

Scotch Horn Leisure7.30pmTel: Kelly - 07445 968136

Weston-super-MareOur Lady of LourdesChurch, Baytree Road9.30amTel: Vicki - 07940 905299

Locking Castle Church5.30pm or 7.30pmTel: Anna - 07789 727514

TUESDAYBanwellBanwell Village Hall7.30pmTel: Anna - 07789 727514

CongresburyCongresbury MethodistChurch Hall

5.30pm or 7.30pmTel: Yasmin - 07456025947

Weston-super-MareLarch Centre(old Baytree School)5.30pm or 7.30pmTel: Vicki - 07940 905299

Wick St LawrenceEbdon Arms7.30pmTel: Kate - 07411 210045

WEDNESDAYNailseaScotch Horn Leisure centre5.30pm or 7.30pmTel: Christine - 07917190796

Weston-super-MareThe Campus,Locking Castle3.30pm, 5.30pm or7.30pmTel: Amy - 07786 652013

Weston Football Club,Winterstoke Road5.30pm or 7.30pmTel: Debbie - 07897172764

THURSDAYCheddarCatholic Hall, Tweentown7pmTel: Cathy - 07971 575158

ChurchillChurchill Memorial Hall7.30pmTel: Ruth - 07970 795126

NailseaScotch Horn Leisure Cen-tre5.30pm or 7.30pmTel: Christine - 07917190796

Weston-super-MareCorpus Christi Church Hall10amTel: Debbie - 07897172764

St Marks Church, Worle9.30am or 6.30pmTel: Sylvia - 07795 562422

SATURDAYWeston-super-MareCampus, Locking Castle9.00am or 11.00amTel: Amy - 07786 652013

Little feet are being invited to take part in a sponsored walkto raise funds for the British Heart Foundation in honour ofEllie.

Ellie Payne, now 15 months, was born on Christmas Day andwas the best present ever.

Mum, Jenny, from Shepton Mallet, says: “Ellie weighed 10Ib and appearedhealthy but her breathing always seemed a little laboured and erratic.

“Two months later we were told Ellie had Common Arterial Trunk, which meantthat too much blood was going to the lungs and too little oxygenated blood wasreaching her body.

“In March 2012, Ellie had open heart surgery to save her life and spent just fourdays in intensive care before coming home a short time later. Ellie will need furtheroperations as she grows as the piece she had put in will need to be replaced.

“We are raising money for the British Heart Foundation to help with research as ifheart surgery can progress even further, Ellie’s next operations could be lessinvasive and risky.”

Ellie and her family have raised over £8,000 so far and your child can help thisappeal by taking part in a sponsored walk on October 12 at Worthy Farm in Piltonat 10.30am.

Jenny explains: “The walk is a mile and a half around the Glastonbury Festivalsite and there is a big pirate ship half way round for the kids to play on.

The event is free but we ask that the children collect sponsor money for theBritish Heart Foundation. Last year 97 children took part and they raised £4,700.

To take part contact Jenny on 07708 757641 or email [email protected]

Calling all kids - let’sraise some moneyin honour of Ellie!

An inspirational mum is training hard to raise fundsfor a charity that 'has saved' her family. SarahSullivan’s youngest daughter, Faye, was born

blind and with a rare genetic disorder calledosteopetrosis.

Faye, now three years old, is one of just four childrenin the UK who suffers from this condition.

Sarah said: “Faye has survived a bone marrowtransplant and is recovering well, but will always bewithout vision.

“Springboard Opportunity Group in Clevedon hashelped us so much over the past few years and hasplayed a huge part in Faye’s development.

“Faye goes twice a week and her walking, speechand social skills are really coming on thanks to theirdedication. She gets to have fun with other children

and she loves it.”The charity

helps childrenwith additionalneeds anddisabilities frombirth to five yearsand their familiesacross NorthSomerset.

Sarah has been training hard to run the Bristol 10K onMay 5 to raise funds for Springboard.

She said: “I have joined the Long Ashton RunningClub and am running three times a week. I’vemanaged 10 miles and it hurt but it’ll worth it.

“Without Springboard our family and Faye would notbe where we are today. Running the 10K is a small wayto show our appreciation.

“Today Faye is full of beans and so strong willed. Shestarts preschool in September and we are just takingher future a day at a time.”

To support Sarah please visitwww.justgiving.com/frogbearmum If you would likemore information about Springboard visitwww.springboardweb.org.uk

Mum’s marathon effortfor lifeline charity

Faye in 2011 - sixmonths post transplant

Faye now with sister Franceswww.mums-diary.co.uk 21

Box Office: 01934 645 544Book online at: www.theplayhouse.co.ukCheck out our website for the latest shows and events informationand to download our very latest brochure

Created by the original production team behind the award-winningWest End show Abbamania and starring the original Frida from theLondon cast. Re-live the addictive ABBA phenomenon in this party-style tribute with full live band and stunning costumes.Saturday 25 May, 7.30pm. Tickets £17, Concessions £15.50

Saturday8 June 7.30pmTickets £18.00,concessions £15.50,family ticket £50

Coming up atTHE PLAYHOUSE

Thursday 9 May, 7.30pm Tickets £18.50,£16.50, concessions £1 off, children £8

Daddy time is precious with babies and whatbetter way to enjoy it than doing somethingfun and educational?

Weston dad, Mike Cooke, has a busy home lifewith a two-year-old and six-month-old twins, butmakes the most of time with his children by takingthem swimming with Water Babies.

Mike spoke to Mum's Diary about his experiencesswimming with daughters Isabel and twins Caitlinand Niamh.

When did you start swimming with WaterBabies?We started when Issy was around four monthsold. A friend of ours really recommended it

and myself and Caroline, my wife, had read articlesand heard about the development and bondingbenefits of swimming with Water Babies.

What is a lesson like?The lessons take place at The Campus inLocking Castle, Weston. The pool is alwayswarm and there

are never more than sixchildren, often there areless. Each lesson is great,it flies by and everyoneenjoys it. The routines arebuilt around songs andthere are one or twonew things to learneach week so it’s alwaysprogressive.

Has it been achallenge to takethe twins?Monday and Wednesday are swimming

nights for us and it can be a challenge as we bothneed to be there for the lesson. Fortunately Nansteps in if work commitments get in the way. Thebenefits of the lessons are more than worth it. For achild to be able to swim by the time they are aroundtwo and a half is a great life skill to have. They alsoget to exercise all their muscles and increase theirsocial skills as they meet other children their age.

How did you feel as a dad doing the lessons?I didn’t feel awkward at all, I wanted to do itand there are plenty of dads getting involved.I've made a few friends at Water Babies and

we go out for a beer to watch the footie or rugbyand generally chat about the kids from ourperspectives.

How have the children responded to thelessons?Issy is really benefiting, she loves it and can'twait until Mondays to see Carol the teacher.

She tells us that she wants to jump in, sings the songs– Jelly on a Plate is a particular favourite, and lovesthe foam mat.The twins are becoming more aware and Ipersonally love the fact they smile and enjoythemselves. We started them at three months and Ithink they will definitely benefit as much as Issy hasdone.All of the girls have become more confident in thebath after starting swim lessons making it a fun partof the day for all of us, not a struggle.As parents you also become really confident athandling your baby in the water.

Do you swim at other times now apart from thelessons?Occasionally with Issy, and the last time I tookher it was great to see such an improvement

in her confidence in the water and we always havegreat fun.

Any tips for other dads?Yes - don't think about it, do it. Admittedly itmay be difficult workwise and financially butfrom my own experience it’s been a great

why of bonding with all my girls as I'm generally atwork most of the week. It’s great to have peace ofmind that your children will be more confident andsafer around water and you'll meet people with kidsof similar ages so you can share experiences andsupport each other.

Will you carry on swimming with WaterBabies?Definitely, for as long as possible, we all enjoyand benefit from it.

Don’t think about it.

If you would like to find out more aboutWater Babies or book onto a courseplease call us on 0117 946 6919 or visit

our websitewww.waterbabies.co.uk/local/bristol.

We run 10 week terms at the lovelywarm Campuspool in Weston-super-Mare andbabies can startswimming from birth.


BabyNatal has arrived in North Somerset tosupport new parents for the day when you firsthold your baby in your arms.

Mum of two, Sarah Whitchurch, provides antenataland postnatal classes which aim to support everyfamily.

Sarah explains: “After I completed my MidwiferyDegree I had my two beautiful daughters. But it gaveme a different perspective. Many classes teach youabout birth but what about the day you first hold yourbaby in your arms?

“Every class is unbiased and helps you to exploreyour options, learn practical parenting skills anddecide how you want to care for your baby.”

The Practical Baby Care Workshop is a fun, hands-onsession for parents to be and includes how to handleyour baby, dressing, nappy changing, cord care,bathing, winding, baby calming and also exploresexpectations around feeding and sleeping.

Classes (£25 for three hours) and private sessions inyour home (£40) are now available.

Please call, email or text for more details 07546471254, [email protected] or visit theFacebook page Babynatal With Sarah Whitchurch

Learn everything from nappychanging to sleep tricks

Splat Messy Play classes are now being run inBanwell and Yatton by new franchisee KirstyDearing.

The Weston classes have been running since 2009after owner Debbie Soverall recognised the need for afun, messy and creative experience that could beenjoyed by both parents and children.

Debbie said: “Messy play is great fun but any parentknows the reality of doing messy play and arts and craftactivities at home can be a more stressful experiencethan a positive one. Whilst children love experimenting

with glue, paint, sand, glitter etc the mess and the stresscan just be too much for many parents to bare.

“Through Splat Messy Play, I have created a fun andeducationally based system to encourage each child’sjourney of exploration and discovery.”

Spat Messy Play are nowmarketing franchiseopportunities so that thebusiness opportunity can beextended to give morepeople the chance to fit abusiness around their familycommitments.

Debbie adds: “We will workwith you to help fit your newbusiness around your familycommitments. We supportand work with you to createa business model that’s rightfor you and tailored for yourcircumstances.”

Kirsty is Splat Messy Play’sfirst franchisee starting onMay 7th.

For more information visitwww.splatmessyplay.co.uk orfind them on Facebook orTwitter.

New Splat Messy Playin Banwell and Yatton

New aqua-natal classesBaby and toddler swim school Puddle Ducks has launched aqua-natal

classes for mums-to-be at the award-winning Club at Cadbury HouseHotel in Congresbury.

The Puddle Ducks’ aqua-natal programme is accredited by the RoyalCollege of Midwives. It incorporates aqua-aerobics, aqua-natal, aqua-yoga and ante-natal swimming all in one session.

Sarah Peacock, owner of Puddle Ducks Bristol and Bath said, “We are soexcited about launching this programme for local mums-to-be. Wepromise to pleasantly surprise mums-to-be with the immense benefits theywill experience, as well as the fun they will have in the class.”

The 45-minute weekly classes are held every Wednesday evening at7pm at the club.

Quote Mum’s Diary to receive a 10% discount off your first six weekbooking. Find out more atwww.puddleducks.com/what_we_do/aquanatal/ or call us on 01179717165.

What’s involved in a BabyNatalantenatal class?Practical Baby Care Workshop -This 3 hour practical and funworkshop will prepare you for theday when you first hold your babyin your arms and includes:• Baby Care Basics - a hands-onchance to learn how to handleyour baby, dressing, nappychanging, cord care, bathing,winding. Expectations aroundfeeding & sleeping are explored.• Baby Safety - make sure you areup to date with recommendationsand guidance.• Parenting choices - reuseabledisposable nappies, babywearing,routines and being baby-led, yourchoices uncovered!• Baby Calming - learn techniquesfor calming your baby.• Role of dads - how dads canbond with their little ones and howthey can be actively involved incaring for them.

For boot camp workouts, think group training sessions, thinkoutdoors (whatever the weather and whatever theseason!), think fun and think challenging.

Boot camp training is suitable for novice exercisers and fitnessenthusiasts alike, because individuals will be allowed to work attheir own personal level.

Boot camp sessions will include variations of each exercise tocater for varying abilities. As sessions are all outdoors, youshould dress appropriately for the time of year. Ideally, youshould layer your clothing so that you can remove outer layersas you warm up. Always take a bottle of water to keephydrated.

Only one person - you - can completely answer the question.But given the increasing popularity of this fitness concept — it’slikely that you’ll be able to fit in easily, as it’s likely there will beother people at the sessions who have similar levels of fitness. FIRST SESSION FREE!

Is a mums’ fitness bootcamp for you?

If you’re still not sure, take a friend along to a sampleclass near you. This way you’ll have more fun. Whetheryour goals are fat loss or body sculpting. I have built a

reputation for my training methods.

"Say goodbye to long,slow boring workouts and sayhello to efficient & effective training! I've seen what I cando in a few weeks I'm excited about how I'll feel in amonth or so" Vicki (Ashcombe Park Bootcamp)

GET IN TOUCH - [email protected]

Turtle Tots swimming lessons teach you to swimwith your little one whilst giving you a fantastictoning workout at the same time.

The fun and innovative programme begins withaqua-natal yoga for mums-to-be and continues withspecialist and progressive swimming lessons for babiesand toddlers to preschool age. It's then straight intothe swim academy for school-aged children, makingTurtle Tots a swimming school you can be confidentto stay with for many years.

The classes for mums-to-be also demonstratetechniques to use with your baby once they are born,ensuring you are confident in the water with yourbaby once they have entered the world.

Each class, which has been created withexperienced personal trainers, promotes fitnessthrough pre-natal and post-natal pregnancyexercises.

Every movement can be adapted to suit individualability levels.

Dads are welcome too – the fun and enjoyablelessons are great for all the family.

All lessons are held in warm water pools and youcan join at any timeduring your pregnancy orafter you have had yourbaby. For more details visitwww.turtletots.com

Tone up while teachingyour baby to swim!

THE FAMILY FRIENDLY CENTRE OFFERING FUN FOR EVERYONE

Children’sActivitiesAffordableaccessible childcare& activity sessions Ofsted Registered Hot or cold lunchincluded Daily fun sessionsin the pool

Hutton Moor’s Jump & Jigglepre-school classes

encourage children toclimb, slide, jump, roll

& balance.

Keep Active and Have Fun

Call us on:

(01934) 425900

Spacesavailable

NOW!

HOMEOPATHY CORNEREllie Richmond asks: I'm due

to have my baby in July. Isthere anything thathomeopathy can do to helpwith supporting breastfeedingand postnatal recovery?

I work with a number ofmums to help support themrecover from childbirthemotionally and physicallywith natural remedies. Thereare also specific remedies that

can help when breastfeeding as well as helpingwith energy levels and lack of sleep.

Sarah Walker adds: “I contacted Bev when Ihad my second baby after attending her babymassage classes with my little girl and using a kitfor a whole range of things.

“Bev came and saw me at home andprescribed me a remedy to help boost me up andhelp with milk supply. She also gave me a lotof information about boosting up my milk,positioning etc and put me in touch with furthersupport too.

“I am still exclusively feeding Illiana at 3months and now going strong! I feel that thesupport and remedy has got me through.”

Sophia Crayne asks:I'm keen to start babymassage classes withmy baby. How earlycan I start?

The generalrecommendation fromhealth professionals isfrom 6-8 weeks whenbaby has had his or herfirst check. Howeveryou can start earlier aslong as you check withyour health visitor thatthere isn't any medical reason stopping you.

Invariably health visitors are very encouraging tostart early and get as much benefit aspossible. Some cultures massage from birth andthere is no reason why you cannot gentlymassage baby's hands and feet and stroke themgently when cuddling them. This helps babies toadjust and enjoy it before the classes.

Babies who attend classes at an early age oftenseem to get less colicky symptoms and are moresettled as a result.

For more information [email protected]

By Bev NickollsFor advice abouthomeopathy call01934 631931

Sarah and Illiana


BUSINESS

Crafty Monkey, Weston’s only ceramic and Builda Bear studio, now has new owners.Gemma and her partner Kevin are looking

forward to introducing lots of new crafty ideas at thestudio in Oxford Street.

The couple, who live in Bristol, have always enjoyedbringing their children to the town and wanted to buytheir own business and work together.

Gemma said: “We have new opening hours with alate night opening until 8pm on Wednesday.

“We will also be running a Kids Club once a month ona Sunday from 2.30pm with a different activity eachweek. We have already had an afternoon ofdecorating bags.”

Crafty Monkey lets your little one paint andpersonalise a unique gift with a huge choice of potteryitems including mugs, plates, animals, money boxesand many more.

Splash Videography is the onlyunderwater videographycompany in the country.

Many of us have seen thestunning photographs of childrenswimming underwater, well now you can capturethe moment on film.

Splash Videography will produce a DVD forindividuals or groups of parents from just £67.

Owner Sarah Dineed describes their service as'an affordable luxury.' Splash Videography hires apool and brings along plenty of toys, balls andwoggles so the children can have fun.

Sarah will give you plenty of advice, hints and tipsabout how to get the most out of the session. Each45 minute session begins with surface shots so all thechildren have time to relax and have fun. Then oneby one they film submersions. Each person gets foursubmersions. A 6-8 minute long movie is thenproduced for each group.

People can book individually for £100 or as agroup of up to 6 people for £400. For moreinformation visit www.splashvideography.com orcall Sarah on 07855 427305.

New owners at paintyour own pottery studio

www.craftymonkeystudio.co.ukFacebook - Crafty Monkey Pottery Studio.

Underwater filmingmakes a splash

Water Babies franchisee Bryony Johnstone iscelebrating 10 years in the business.Water Babies is the largest baby swim school

in the world, offering highly specialised lessons to littleones as young as just a few days old.

Ten years ago, inspired by her own experience ofbaby swimming, Bryony made a life changingdecision and joined forces with her sister and brother-in-law to set up the very first Water Babies franchise inBristol.

A decade on, Bryony employs 15 women,teaching an impressive total of 1,200 babies andtoddlers to swim every week. Over the last 10 years,Bryony estimates they’ve taught 8,000 children.

Bryony’s original Water Babies are celebrating theirtenth birthdays and Bryony recently attended aswimming gala to cheer on one of her very first pupilsCatherine Brooke, now 10 years old and an aquaticsuperstar in the making!

Bryony says: “Running my business has been awonderful experience. I’m so proud not only to passon such a vital skill to little ones, but also to employ somany fantastic women and help them to enjoy agreat work life balance.”

Water Babies Bristolcelebrates 10th anniversary


T: 07870 995938 / 01934 527888W: www.atkinsandco.com

E: [email protected]/in/atkinsandco

We have just passed the end of another tax year so time toget your affairs in order.Many people leave the completion of their tax return to

the HMRC deadline of 31 January, but there is no need to - it canbe submitted anytime after 5 April.

You will not need to pay your tax sooner if you complete yourreturn sooner – in fact you will have longer to put the money toone side. If you are due a refund, the sooner you complete yourreturn the sooner you will receive your money.

Your accountant may be able to do some tax planning on yourbehalf, hence saving you tax either in the current or the next taxyear. You will have exact figures ready for the finalising of your taxcredits claim in July. The sooner you get it done the better!

If you are in need of help do not delay, we can help. Remembera good accountant can often save you more tax than the fee youpay them!

The Time Out Coffee shop has opened in the village of Banwelland prides itself on being a family friendly coffee house for thewhole community.

The business is managed by mum and daughter team Karenand Kerri. Kerri said: “Our aim is simple, to provide our customerswith great tasting coffee and tea, delicious food and a warm,welcoming experience for all.”

Families will find a range of food and drinks available to eat inor take away with a delicious range of sandwiches made dailyusing fresh, local ingredients as well as jacket potatoes, paninis,sausage rolls, homemade cakes, cookies and pastries.

Our daily specials board will also promise some yummy treats.If you are in a hurry you can phone to have your order ready to

collect or even delivered and free WiFi will keep your day onschedule. The coffee shop also caters for events and with a carpark is the perfect venue to hire for groups and children’s parties.

For more details and orders call 01934 707028 or [email protected]

Mum and daughter teamopen family-friendly cafe

Time to get your tax in order

ARE you looking for a business opportunity which is parttime, home-based and fits around your family?Arbonne, which provides premium skin care products to

customers around the world, is now recruiting consultants inNorth Somerset.

The collection, which includes cosmetics, anti-ageing productsand the ABC Baby Skin Care range is botanically based;dermatologist tested and is vegan certified.

If you have an interest in botanically-based products, valuecreative control over your life and want to make a positivedifference to people’s lives this could be the job for you.

Julie Iles, an independent consultant in the Bristol and SouthWest, will personally ensure that you receive full training and arefully supported in your new role. You can begin with minimalstart-up expenses and enjoy a 35% discount off the suggestedretail price on all products.

For more details call Julie on 07969 359824, [email protected] or visit www.julieiles.myarbonne.co.uk

Looking for a home-basedbusiness opportunity?


Schools & nurseries

Lakehouse nursery, situated on the Lake Grounds inPortishead was established in 2011 and is renownedboth locally and beyond for providing the highest

standard of care and education to children under 5.In response to local demand, the family business is

expanding. Opening May 2013 inthe former police station inPortishead, Stationhouse Nursery willbe the sister site to the awardwinning Lakehouse Nursery. Theyaim to provide the same highstandard of care and education asLakehouse, this time exclusively for 2to 5 year olds.

The team is passionate aboutbeing at the heart of Portishead’sgrowing community and will becreating an environment where children can laugh,learn and grow.

With the marina, library, local shops and Lake Groundsall within walking distance, Stationhouse will provide anamazing environment for children to explore, learningabout nature and the local community, whilst aidingwith their physical and intellectual development.

The environment will play a huge part in their day today activities with a good proportion of each day spentoutside. Children will learn to look after and enjoy the

front and rear gardens, taking part in recycling, growingfruit and vegetables, building dens, and generallyplaying in the fresh air. As at Lakehouse, they will alsobe having nursery pets, which the children will be

encouraged to care for, learningabout responsibility, being caring andgentle.

Stationhouse and Lakehouse pridethemselves on understanding thatchoosing the right care for yourprecious little ones is an extremelytough decision and they will workwith you both before and duringyour time with them to ensure thatthey provide the right environmentfor your child to blossom.

Whether you are looking for a nursery foryour new baby ortoddler, bothStationhouse andLakehouse nurseriesare definitely worth avisit and you can callthem on 01275398787 to arrange apersonal showaround.

New nursery in Portishead


Lakehouse Nurseryowner Zoe Parsons

A setting in theheart of HuttonHutton Pre-School was set up by parents in

1996 and has been hugely successful eversince.

Still run by a committee of parents, the pre-school has excellent links with Hutton PrimarySchool, making the transition in to the world ofbig school nothing more than an exciting adventure.

Children can start from the age of two, which means there is greatstability for children from day one through to their school days.

Run from the village hall, children get to visit the primary schoolacross the road regularly for playing, productions and to mix withreception year pupils.

Teachers from the primary school often come across to the pre-school to visit and talk to the children.

The pre-school also has strong links with the Hutton in Bloom team,who come and help the children plant vegetables, fruits and flowers intheir garden, which they can then dig up and cook with for their snack.

The youngsters are regular visitors to the Orchards farm, in the village,where they meet cows, horses and other animals.

Outdoor time is important at the pre-school and children areencouraged to spend time outside using all the play equipmentwhenever they want to. They also take part in a forest school run fromthe school grounds, where they do activities such as making naturecrowns before tucking into hot chocolate and marshmallows.

There are up to 20 children a day enjoying the pre-school which hasplenty of indoor activities as well , including two computers.

The pre-school is a registered charity and parents are welcome tojoin the committee and lend a hand with the running of it andfundraising for any extra specialist equipment required.

The normal fees are £9.10 per session and there is a lunch clubbetween the morning and afternoon sessions, which costs just £2 andparents provide a packed lunch. For more information call the LeaderSheena Thomas on 07817867954.

Expansion for nurseryA popular Weston nursery is set

to expand in order to meetgrowing demand.

Secret Orchard Day nursery,based in Orchard Street, currentlycaters for 26 children aged two to five, but has a waiting list.

Owner Sarah Brown, who started the business in 2011, is nowlooking to expand into additional premises in the same road.

She said: “There is a lot of demand for high quality childcare inthe town centre and Secret Orchard has been a great success.

“We’re keen to expand to build on our success and supportmore families in Weston.”

The current nursery will remain to allow younger children theirown space and the new unit will be turned into a preschoolsetting.

The new Secret Orchard Preschool will also run an afterschooland school holiday club. The unit will also have a sports space atthe back to allow children to enjoy themselves and keep healthy.

Sarah is awaiting planning permission from North SomersetCouncil and hopes to open the new site in the middle of May. Ifall goes according to plan, Secret Orchard will be hosting aspecial open day on 18th May where you can find out moreabout the nursery, preschool and holiday club.


Roundabouts Preschool is holdingan open day on June 15th 11am- 3pm. There will be a bouncycastle, stalls and refreshmentsavailable. Parents who book aplace for their children on theday will pay no admin fee.

It takes an extra special parent to foster a child. Doyou have what it takes? Foster carer of one year,John Purcell, reveals his experiences and joy of

opening the door to another child.

What inspired you to foster?A great love of children and a desire to give themlove and attention, which is all a child needs. We

had considered it many years ago after stopping at afostering stand, but had too many work commitments.Then, in 2011, I was made redundant and my wifeLynne and I knew it was the step to take as I had timeto dedicate to the children that needed us.

What did you have to do to be considered forfostering?

For us the whole process took eight months andbegan with a foster information evening where wecould talk to foster carers to really understand what wewere taking on. I now do this myself which is a great joyto share my experiences with other potential carers.

We then attended a four day training course wherewe learnt many skills and could again question otherfoster carers and look at case studies of children andsome of the issues we may face and how to deal withthem. Finally we met with a social worker a number oftimes and had what was basically a counselling sessionfor our lives as individuals, as a couple and as parents.

It really made me think about how I was parented,how I have parented my own children and I foundmyself thinking about things which I had buried awayalong with my past. A report is then put together forconsideration of your suitability. It’s interesting as if

Foster CareFortnight 2013Foster Care Fortnight is the annual

campaign to raise the profile offostering and is the UK's biggest foster

carer recruitment campaign.This year's Foster Care Fortnight will take

place from May 13-26.With a shortage of 10,000 foster carers

across the UK, more foster carers areneeded to provide children with safe andcaring homes while they are unable to livewith their own families.

Have you got a spare room and room inyour heart to help?

MAY 13-26

every potential parent went through this, the worldwould not need foster carers!

What was it like when your first foster childstepped through the door?

We knew we had been accepted and had acall from the fostering team very shortly after to say thattwo young siblings under the age of five needed ouremergency care.

We had chosen to accept children from 0-18. Youcan give a specific age range if it suits your family andneeds. You can choose whether to offer respite, shortor long term fostering. We didn’t sleep for two nights aswe were nervous and excited. We had lots ofpreparation to do.

When the siblings arrived they were very quiet,watched the television and went to sleep immediately– we were up all night waiting for one of them to needus, but they didn’t.

Children who have a difficult home life often learn tointernalise everything as this is how they cope. It tooktwo weeks for them to start behaving as you wouldexpect for their age and to begin to gain their trust.Fostering is a most rewarding and sometimes difficultjob, just as parenting should be.

How does fostering make you feel?The children become part of your family.Gradually you get closer, building trust beforethey open up and show you who they really are.

It’s the smallest of things that have the mostsignificance such as a child climbing up to sit on yourknee before bed or looking to you for reassurancewhen they are in an unfamiliar situation; you know thatyou have really made a difference to that child’s lifeand nothing beats that.

Do you have support from the fostering team atNorth Somerset Council?We have great support and feel we can contact

them at any time. Events and coffee mornings arearranged for carers and the North Somerset Foster


Carers Association offer a 24 hour helpline for you tospeak to an experienced carer if you are unsure ofanything.

What advice would you give to others thinking offostering?

Do it! If you have the time and a spare room it isone of the most rewarding jobs you can do. It isimpossible to really describe how it makes you feel.When a child you have cared for leaves your home,you know they are leaving as a different person. Andit’s you that has made that difference.

Dedicated foster parents are holding aspecial event on Weston seafront to raisevital funds for school children in Ghana.

Hundreds of children have to walk more thanthree miles to the Community 11 Junior School,just outside Tema in Ghana. They walk in barefeet and their school has no play equipment,limited medical care and just two toilets

June MacLeod, foster carer of three years,explains, “Our children are lucky enough tohave varied school meals and computers towork on, whereas in Ghana they just have abowl of rice and one pencil between fivepupils.”

“Over the weekend of May 25 and 26 we willbe on the seafront selling homemadecupcakes, running a tombola and a facepainter will be on hand for you to donate to ourcause and find out more about the school inGhana or fostering.”

June has cared for five children offeringrespite, short-term and emergency care foryoungsters in North Somerset.

June explains: “A little girl who has beencoming to us for respite care for two years isnow coming to live with us permanently.

“We see ourselves as privileged to be in thesechildren’s lives and they give us great joy andhappiness.”

Carers raise money for Ghana

GET IN TOUCH:

T: 01275 [email protected]

What foster kidssay they want:• To be forgiven when theyget things wrong•To feel normal not different• To be given help andencouragement whenvisiting birth families• To be made to feel likepart of the family• To have their own room• To have a family holiday• For carers to be easy totalk to, loving and fun


Chronic FatigueSyndromeand kids

Real life stories from local mums and dads

M.E. is a chronic, fluctuating illness

affecting an estimated 250,000people in the UK.

It may be diagnosed as ChronicFatigue Syndrome (CFS) or Post Viral

Fatigue Syndrome (PVFS).

M.E. symptoms may includepersistent exhaustion, muscle and/or

joint pain, sleep disturbance, feeling

’flu-like and having problems withmemory and concentration.

Most mums will be well used to feeling tired,particularly those running around after twochildren under the age of three.

Leoni Bunting not only has a one-year-old and a two-year-old, but suffers from chronic fatigue syndrome(CFS) or ME as it is often known.

CFS is a significantly debilitating medical disorder,which, among other things, commonly causes thesufferer to have severe mental and physical exhaustionas well as widespread muscle and joint pain,headaches and insomnia.

Leoni says: “My baby could be stood in front of mecrying and I physically don't have enough energy tomove to pick her up.

“I thought having CFS was difficult before havingchildren, but now as a parent the challenge is pushingthrough when there isn't anything left in the tank!”

Leoni moved to Weston Village just last month fromWorcestershire. She moved to be closer to her family forsupport.

“I was diagnosed last year when my youngest wasthree months old. The diagnosis takes a long time as it'san elimination process and you're put through lots oftests and consultations before finally being told it's CFS –which has no cure.

“At first the doctors wondered if it was pregnancy-related, but it wasn't. It's a very frustrating diagnosis asit's almost like saying 'we don't really know what'swrong'.

“It's a never-ending cycle and, with no cure, it's nowabout how you live your life.

“I can't be a busy mum like other mums. I have tochoose between cooking dinner and cleaning theliving room. Some days I can't take the girls to toddlergroup and have to just stay in the house. If I take thegirls shopping, I have to have 2 or 3 naps, which is notpractical with toddlers.

“My eldest daughter is a lot more independent thanother two-year-olds. She is happy and doesn't mindhelping mummy sometimes. She's good at bringing methings and helping out her sister. She'll get her a drink orif she spills something on the floor she enjoys sweeping itup. Little things like that are all a fun game to her. If thatever changed and she was unhappy I'd get extra helparound the house.

“Some weeks I'm absolutely fine, but I'm alwaysaware of what can go wrong. It's when I think I'm finethat I push myself too far and then crash physically andemotionally.

“There are people who have CFS who follow myblog, but I don't know any other parents with CFS. Iwould love to meet them and know what system otherpeople have in place.”

Leoni has a blog and has just joined the Mum's Diaryblogger network. Keep up with her posts and all ourbloggers posts on our website www.mums-diary.co.uk

“Sometimes I think about my children and myCFS/ME and I don't know what I am. Am I stupid?Or am I brave? I was told by the checkout assistantin the supermarket I was brave yesterday, I tookboth my children shopping by myself.

“What makes that brave? She doesn’t knowabout my illness, she doesn’t know that for that oneact I paid with the rest of my day, the shoppingstayed not put away in the kitchen for 2 hours andthe house looked like a literal bomb site when thehusband got home, all because I selfishly wantedto get out of the house for a couple of hours. Wasshopping with the girls stupid or brave?”

You can find out more about CFS/ME by visitingwww.actionforme.org.uk


DINOSAUR ISLAND!

WithAshaHutchings

Design your island:� Draw a picture of what your island looks like.� Draw a map of your island on your board.

Make your volcano:� Twist and screw up large pieces of newspaper and

tape them to your bottle to make a rough volcanoshape.

� Next tear pieces of newspaper into squares, andstick a layer all over your volcano making sure youoverlap the pieces. The more layers you do, thestronger the surface will be. Make sure you leave ahole at the top of your bottle.

Create your landscape:� Scrunch lumps of newspaper up and stick them to

your board to create your island, rocks andbolders.

� Create different textures for the sea, craggy rocksor sandy shores by crinkling layers of paper as youstick them down, or sticking on real sand.

� For smooth rock surfaces or water add a layer oftissue paper.

Decorate:� When you are completely happy with your shapes

and the glue is dry, paint your island.� This is a good chance for kids to learn how to mix

their own colours because if it turns to brown youcan still use it.

� Create trees and bushes from leaves and twigsand stick them on with play dough.

� Place your volcano onto your landscape andblend it in using the same colour paint and realrocks and pebbles.

� If you want a shiny finish to your landscape youcan varnish it once the paint is dry.

Set off your Volcano!� Mix tomato ketchup with about 125ml of vinegar.� Tip 6 teaspoons of bicarbe into your bottle.� Take your landscape out into the garden and

when your ready pour the ketchup mixture intoyour bottle and watch it explode!

You will need: A large box or board, PVA glue, newspaper, aplastic bottle, paint, tape, tissue paper, sticks and sand,clear varnish, bicarbonate of soda, vinegar and tomatoketchup.

Can I exercise? When is it safe to do so? In simpleterms exercise throughout pregnancy andbeyond is good and safe just listen to your body!

There are many benefits to continuing exercisethroughout pregnancy and this is supported by theRoyal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists(RCOG). Remember though, you should havereasonable goals and expectations. Pregnancy is not atime to try and reach peak fitness levels; it is a time tomaintain your fitness. Some benefits which have beenattributed to keeping fit during pregnancy include,shorter labours (apparently!), reduced weight gain,reduced swelling and cramps as well as less insomniaand depression. Land and water-based exercise classesare both suitable, but always ensure that the instructorknows you are pregnant and any concerns you mayhave.

Once your baby has arrived, you may be eager toreturn to exercise but you need to account for themany changes your body has undergone over the pastnine months. Return slowly and gently and ideally in aclass dedicated to the postnatal lady.

Be watchful for particular problems and injuriesincluding joint instability – your body releases a hormone

called relaxin during pregnancy, and this can stay inyour system for anything up to two years, which if youover stretch it can lead to hyper mobility and potentiallong term postural damage.

Also, 90% of women experience abdominalseparation (DRA) the ‘gap’ may naturally repair in thedays or weeks following, however, in some cases it maynot. This can lead to a weakness of the core, and, if nottreated correctly, could lead to doming orbulging of the abdominals – so nocrunches, twisting, plank or lifting whilstthey are apart!

Exercise really is safe when you arepregnant and once you have had yourlittle bundle, but make sureyou train with someonewho is qualified for preand post natal, andthat you listen toyour body andalways keephydrated.

When is it safe to exerciseafter giving birth? Time frames for returning to exercise:

6 weeks - normal deliver and no complications12 weeks - C-section

By Sarah Dineen,of Fit2Drop

Mums of Bridgwater raises money from regularevents such as the Somerset Pregnancy andBaby Fair on May 18. The cash is ploughed

back in to the groups funds with the ultimate aim ofpaying for someone to have fertility treatment whohas been denied it from the NHS.

Founding member Paula McShane was told by theNHS she could not have children naturally and wouldnot be entitled to free fertility treatment because herhusband had children from a previous marriage.

They had to sell their house in order to fund thetreatment, which gave them their precious son Liam.

Now, through Mums of Bridgwater, she is helpingsomeone else achieve their dream of becoming a

mum. Paula spoke to Mum's Diary about her story.

We set up the group last May afterattending a breastfeeding supportgroup where I met some really nice

mums. On the Friday night I set up the Facebookgroup and by Saturday 102 people joined. Over thenext month or so it rose to 400 and now it's at justunder 800.

We started holding events and soon had somemoney coming in so had to decide what to do with itall. We decided to use it to help someone who has nochildren become a mum.

We want to give someone that opportunity whowouldn't otherwise be able to have it. So many peopleare turned down by the NHS and fertility treatmentcan be so expensive. It's about £3,500 for just the basicIVF treatment and can be more like £6-7,000 for morecomplicated versions.

I wasn't a mum when I found out I had fertilityproblems, but wasn't entitled to NHS treatmentbecause my husband had children already.

Ges had had a vasectomy, which we had reversed,but it meant the sperm were less mobile and I hadendrometriosis so the doctors basically told us ourchance of having children was next to nothing.

The news was devastating, totally soul destroying.You can never imagine what IVF is like, let alone the

emotions involved.You go into it thinking you're going to be a mum

and thinking you'll be pregnant soon.I started having fertility treatment in 2007 with a

round of ICSI. It started with 17 eggs, which all had thesperm injected into them. Only 10 survived and twowere put back inside and the rest frozen.

The first round didn't work - I started bleeding on my30th birthday.

Another four were defrosted and that round didn'twork either. That time at least I knew it might not work,but I was still praying it would.

The process becomes everything you can thinkabout and you have bump envy all the time.

My sisters fell pregnant too and seemed to be veryfertile and while obviously being happy for them, I wasseething inside.

In 2011, we defrosted the last four and only twosurvived to use.

We didn't tell anyone because we were so fed upwith telling people we were still not pregnant.

Then, when it finally worked, it was amazing, but Ididn't bond with my bump because I was constantlywaiting for something to go wrong. Somewhere in theback of my mind I kept thinking I wasn't meant to be amum.

When my waters broke I just cried because I hadn'tgot me head around it at all.

Throughout all of that process we had to pay forevery little thing, including every time they were frozenor defrosted.

It totalled £13,000 and I had to sell my house to getthat money and move to a different, cheaper area.

But it was worth every penny to have my little boyLiam, who is now 18 months old.

I am over the moon and so privileged tohave my son after so much longing, wantingand waiting.

Make a mum- the heartfeltmission of MumsOf BridgwaterAfter being refused fertility treatment on theNHS and selling her house to cover the £13kbill, Paula McShane now leads a group ofmums fundraising to make someone elses’dreams come true.

“

“

Paula with Ges and son Liam


A comprehensive guide of groups, classes and events

Get your group listed here - call 07909 903120 or email [email protected] 43

Children’s CentresAshcombe Children’s Centre,Stepping Stone Walk, Weston-super-Mare

Stay and Play SpringboardWhen: 9.30-11.15am MondayWhat: For parents concerned about theirchild’s development or behaviourContact: 01934 426165

Stepping Stones GroupWhen: 9.30am-12pm (term time) MondayWhat: Accredited childminders’ groupContact: 01934 426380

Stay and PlayWhen: 1.30-3pm Monday (term time)What: Play and chatContact: 01934 426165

Postnatal ClinicWhen: 9.00-12.30pm (please ring) TuesdayWhat: Midwife appointmentsContact: Kirsty Gardner 01934 647082

Stay and PlayWhen: 1.30-3pm (term time) ThursdayWhat: Stay and play for children 0-2Contact: 01934 426380

Health Visitor Drop-InWhen: 2-3.30pm ThursdayWhat: Health visitor drop-in combined with stayand playContact: 01934 426380

Inspire Group for Young ParentsWhen: 12-4pm FridayWhat: Run by Weston College, providingsupport back into educationContact: Stephanie Lee 01934 411760

MidwifeWhen: 2-4pm FridayWhat: Appointments onlyContact: 01934 426380

Dad’s Stay and PlayWhen: First Saturday of the month 10am-12pmWhat: Fun activities and bacon butties fordads, male carers and their children.Contact: 01934 426906

Weston Contact CentreWhen: 10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30-3.30pm.Second and fourth Saturday of every monthContact: Mary Woolley 01934 515891

Banwell, Winscombe and SandfordChildren’s Centre, West Street,Banwell

Midwife ClinicWhen: 9.30am-12pm TuesdayWhat: Post natal checks availableContact: Your midwife for an apt

MendWhen: 1.30-3pm from 23rd April for 10 weeksTuesdayWhat: A free healthy lifestyle programme for2-4 year olds and their familiesContact: Debbie on 0789 0984 282 or Julietteon 0788 994 4009

Little Stars

When: 10.30-12.30pm WednesdayWhat: Post natal group from Bumps to 1 yearoldsContact: Sara Vickery or Phillipa Worthy 01934852927

Baby ClinicWhen: 1.30-3.30pm 1st and 3rd Wednesday ofthe monthWhat: Health Visitor available for healthadvice, behaviour concerns and much more.Contact: Sara Zinn 01934 844 236

Nappy AllianceWhen: Appointments available at 10amWednesdays for nappy demos by priorarrangement.What: Find out about real nappiesContact: 01934 426774

Tiger Tots Childminder GroupWhen: 9.30-11.30am (term time) ThursdayWhat: Meet other childmindersContact: Maria Powell 07795 390697

Antenatal SessionWhen: 1-3pm or 6-8pm last Thursday of themonthWhat: A local group that will offer advice andtips to prepare you for your baby’s arrivalContact: Debbie Pope 01934 426643

Stay & PlayWhen: 9.30-11am FridayWhat: Includes planned activities, song time,outside play and access to information.Contact: 01934 426 774

Castle Batch Children’s Centre,Community Centre, BishopsAvenue, Worle

Baby BasicsWhen: 11am-12.30pm MondayContact: Worle Health Visitors 01275 885601

Stay and PlayWhen: 1-2.30pm TuesdayWhat: Includes planned activities, song time,refreshments and access to info. Drop in.Contact: 01934 427242

PEEP TalkWhen: 9.45-11.15am TuesdayWhat: Activities to support children’s speech,language and community development for18-36 monthsContact: 01934 427242

Batch Buddies Childminding GroupWhat: Enjoy playing, singing and having funWhen: 9.30-11.30am (term time) WednesdayContact: 01934 427242

ESOLWhen: 12.45-2.45pm (term time only) ThursdayWhat: For parents with English as a secondlanguage. Crèche available.Contact: Cirlei Loris 01934 426361

Maternal Healthy WeightWhen: 9-12pm ThursdayWhat: To provide support, advice, 1-1 sessions,weekly advice, free swimming and menuplanning for a healthy lifestyleContact: Ashcombe Birth Centre 01934 647082

MENDWhen: 10 week course starting Friday 26th April9.30-11am

What: FREE healthy lifestyle programme for 2-4year olds and their familiesContact: Debbie 07890 984282 or Juliette07889 944009

Clevedon Children’s Centre, TheBarn, Great Western Road,Clevedon

Toddler PEEPWhen: 10-11.30am MondayWhat: Sign up for 15 weeks to gain an OCNlevel 2 qualification in family careContact: 01934 426440

Childminder’s GroupWhen: 9.30-11.30am MondayWhat: Drop-in playgroup for childminders’Contact: Christine Mann 01275 859924

Tum to TotsWhen: 1-2pm MondayWhat: For new mums from pre-birth to sixmonths. Cost £1 per familyContact: 01934 426440

ESOLWhen: 12.30-2.30pm TuesdayWhat: English for parents group meeting from16 April – 2 July (10 weeks)Contact: Cirlie Loris 01934 426361

Well Baby ClinicWhen: 1-3pm TuesdayWhat: Baby advice clinicContact: Rose de Greeff, Lynne Cunniffe andRachel Browne 01275 885514

Simply Play+When: 1.15-2.45pm WednesdayWhat: Open parent/carer toddler group heldin The Barn. No waiting list, just drop in. Cost£2 plus 50p for each additional child.Contact: Annie Smith 01275 343990

Baby PEEPWhen: 9.30-10.30am (term time) ThursdayWhat: Group for parents and babiesContact: Jackie Stead 01934 426440 to book

Breast is Best GroupWhen: 11am-12pm ThursdayWhat: Breastfeeding support groupContact: Health visitors 01275 885514

Young Parents GroupWhen: 1.30-2.30pm ThursdayWhat: Group for teenage and young parentsContact: Michelle Hillyard 01934 426440

Housing Benefit SurgeryWhen: 11am-1pm FridayWhat: Visiting officer available for help andadviceContact: 01934 426440

Crockerne Children’s Centre,Westward Drive, Pill, Bristol

Rhyme and Sign at Pill Baptist ChurchWhen: 9.30-11am MondayContact: Mary Thomas 01275 373301

Salvation Army Parent and Toddler GroupWhen: 9-11am Tuesday and WednesdayContact: Heather Godwin 01275 373970

Childminder Networking GroupWhen: 9.30-11.30am 2nd and 4th Tuesday

Contact: Dawn 07794 523338

PEEP Move and GrooveWhen: 9:30-10:30am from 17th AprilWhat: A 10 week course for parents andchildren 2-4 years oldContact: Sharon Wheatley 01275 884001

Citizens Advice/LiberataWhen: 9am-12pm WednesdayWhere: The Resource Centre, 4 Baltic Place,Pill, BS20 0EJContact: 01275 375670

Weekly Mini Stay and PlayWhen: 1:30-3pm (term time) WednesdayWhat: Stay and play for 0-4 yearsContact: Debra 077769 163966

Citizens Advice/LiberataWhen: 9-12pm ThursdayWhere: The Resource Centre, 4 Baltic Place,Pill, BS20 0EJ

Ten Tots Toddler GroupWhere: Pill Methodist ChurchWhen: 9.30-11am ThursdayContact: 01275 374053

Health Visitor Drop-inWhen: 2-4pm ThursdayContact: 01275 547541

Pill Toy Library and Toddler GroupWhere: Pill Community Centre, Church Place,Pill, BS20 0AEContact: Suzanna Delve on 01275 371883 orWendy Martineau on 01275 372662

LLaDs- Lads, Lasses and Dad’s GroupWhen: 10:30am- 12pm Second Saturday of themonthContact: 01275 884001

Locking Castle & LockingChildren’s Centre, The Campus,Highlands Lane, Weston-super-Mare

Postnatal ChecksWhen: 9am-12pm MondayWhat: Postnatal appointments onlyContact: Ashcombe Ward 01934 647082

Baby PEEPWhen: 1-2pm MondayContact: For further information contact Louise01934 426354 or Emily 01275 88521

Antenatal PhysiotherapyWhen: 9.15-10.15am TuesdayWhat: Through pregnancy, labour and theearly days with your new baby, exercise, backcare, relaxation and breathing patterns inassociation with Weston General HospitalContact: 01934 426679 to book

Locking BumblesWhere: Locking Church Hall, Locking VillageWhen: 9.30-11am Wednesday (term time)What: Childminders’ drop inContact: Rachel Landen 01934 824470

Child Health ClinicWhen: 10-12am WednesdayWhat: Baby/child weigh-in and adviceContact: 01275 885 601

Young Parents GroupWhen: 1-2.30pm (term time) WednesdayContact: Hayley 01934 426355

Stay and PlayWhen: 9.30–11am ThursdayWhat: Come and play with your child- includesplanned activities, song time and access toinfo.Contact: 01934 426679

Help with EnglishWhen: 12.45-2.45pm ThursdayWhat: In partnership with Woodspring Church,Creche provided. Booking requiredContact: 01934 427427

Little Explorers Childminder Drop InWhen: 9.30-11.30am Friday (term time)What: Support group for childminders onlyContact: Lauren Pring 07878 663700

Long Ashton Children’s Centre,Early Birds Nursery, Hollis Close,Long Ashton

Sunshine and Puddles Stay and PlayWhen: 10-11.30am (term time only) MondayWhat: Active/healthy session for confidentwalkers to 4 years.Contact: 01275 888 555

Health Visitors Well Baby ClinicWhen: 1.30-3.15pm MondayContact: Sue or Susan 07775 994259

Childminders GroupWhen: 10-11.30am TuesdayContact: 01275 888555

Little Chicks Breastfeeding Support GroupWhen: 12am-2pm TuesdayContact: 07775 994259

Multiple Births GroupWhen: 10-11.30am WednesdayWhat: Support group for families with twins ormoreContact: 01275 888 555

Baby Birds Stay and PlayWhen: 1-2pm WednesdayWhat: Play and activities for babies 0-18months and their parentsContact: 01275 888 555

Post Natal GroupWhen: 10.30-12am ThursdayContact: Sue or Susan 07775 994259

Sing and Sign GroupWhen: 2-3pm ThursdayWhat: Fun session for you and your child (0-4years) to learn nursery rhymes and makatonsignsContact: 01275 888 555

Milton and Old Worle Children’sCentre, Mendip Avenue, Worle,

Peep for 1sWhen: 9.30-11am (term time) MondayWhat: Come and have fun with your 1-yr-oldand meet other parents to share experiences.Contact: Call to book 01934 426 618

Let’s Get TogetherWhen: 1-2.30pm 3rd Monday of every monthWhat: Help the Children’s Centre steer it’sservices and support us to hear the voice offamilies and children.Contact: Jane 01275 527816 or Tracey 01934426618

TeddyTots Childminder Group

Where: Mead Vale Community Centre, 15Redwing Drive, WestonWhen: 12.30-2.30pm TuesdayWhat: Childminder support groupContact: Jo Irvine 01934 516044

Cheeky Monkeys Childminder Drop InWhen: 9.30am-12.30pm (term time)WednesdayWhat: Childminder support group.Contact: Lesley 07752 062370 or Sue 07789785465

Time for 2s Stay and PlayWhen: 1-2.30pm WednesdayWhat: Fun activities indoor and outdoor.Contact: 01934 426 618

Child Health ClinicWhen: 9.45-11.15am ThursdayWhat: Baby/child weigh-in and adviceContact: Worle Health Visitors 01275 885 601

MunchkinsWhen: 11.15am-1pm ThursdayWhat: Breastfeeding support groupContact: 01275 885 601

Stay and PlayWhen: 9.30-11am (term time) FridayWhat: Includes planned sessions, song time,outside play and access to info. Drop in.Contact: 01934 426618

Stay and Play For Under 1sWhen: 1-2.30pm (term time) FridayWhat: Includes planned sessions, song time,outside play and access to info. Drop in.Contact: 01934 426618

Nailsea and Backwell ChildrensCentre, Pound Lane, Nailsea

PEEP OCNWhen: 9.30-11am TuesdayWhat: Gain a qualification whilst learningabout your child’s developmentContact: 01934 426710 to book

Early Pregnancy Drop InWhen: 9.30-11.am TuesdayWhat:Contact: 01934 426618

Young Parents GroupWhen: 1.30- 3pm TuesdayWhat: Group for under 25sContact: 01934 426710

Childminders Drop In GroupWhen: 10am-12pm WednesdayContact: 01934 426618

Baby DinersWhen: 2-3.30pm WednesdayWhat: Breastfeeding group – Drop inContact: 01934 426710

Parenting PlayWhen: 9.30-11am ThursdayWhat: A rolling programme of eventsContact: 07952 144468 to book

Portishead Children’s Centre, St.Barnabas Centre, West Hill,Portishead

Health Visitors Well Baby ClinicWhen: 9:15-11:15am MondayWhat: Baby/child weigh-in and advice

Get your group listed here - call 07909 903120 or email [email protected]


Contact: 01275 884001

International Parents GroupWhen: 10.30am-12pm (term time) MondayWhat: A group for families with children underthree who speak a different languageContact: 01275 884001

Citizens Advice BureauWhere: Portishead Folk Hall, High Street,PortisheadWhen: 10am-2pm MondayContact: 08444 111 444

PEEP Move and GrooveWhen: 1:30- 2:30pm Monday from 15th AprilWhat: A 10 week course from 2-4 years oldContact: Sharon Wheatley 01275 884001

Soft PlayWhen: 9.30-2.30pm Monday, Tuesday,Wednesday and ThursdayWhat: Ages 0-4. Free for babies under 1Contact: 01275 842461

Cafe MammaWhen: 10-11.30am TuesdayWhat: For friendly breastfeeding support.Speak to a breastfeeding Peer Supporter andother breastfeeding mums.Contact: Mamma Helpline 07816 366370www.mammaonline.co.uk

6 Weeks Postnatal CoursesWhen: 1.30-3pm TuesdayWhat: for parents of babies up to 6 months,booking requiredContact: 01275 547541

Childminding Network GroupWhen: 9.30-11.30am (term time) WednesdayWhat: A chance to network with otherchildminders’, with activities based on EYFS forthe children.Contact: 01275 844316

Credit UnionWhen: 1-2.30pm first Wednesday of the monthWhat: Offering financial services, savings andloansContact: 01275 884001

Stay & PlayWhen: 1.00-2.30pm WednesdayWhat: A friendly group for you and your childContact: Sharon Wheatley 01275 884001

ESOLWhen: 9.30am-12pm ThursdayWhat: A course for adults with English as asecond language. Crèche availableContact: Chile 01934 426361

NCT Bumps and BabiesWhen: 10-11:30am FridayWhat: For expectant parents and little ones upto 18 months, regular free workshops, enjoy acup of tea and meet other mums.Contact: 01275 884001

Soft PlayWhen: 9.30am-1.30pm FridayWhat: Ages 0-4. Free for babies under 1Contact: 01275 842461

Family Drop-inWhen: 10am-12pm second Saturday of themonthWhat: For families with children with additionalneeds. Just turn upContact: 01275 882905

LlaDs – Lads, Lasses & Dads Group

When: 10.30am-12pm, second Saturday ofevery monthWhat: An opportunity for dads to spend qualitytime with their childrenContact: 01275 884001

South Weston Children’s Centre

SpringboardWhere: The For All Healthy Living CentreWhen: 9-12am MondayWhat: For children with developmental delayand disabilitiesContact: Belinda 01934 426 165

Maternal Healthy Weight ProgrammeWhere: Oldmixon Family CentreWhen: 11.00am-12.30pm MondayWhat: Invitation only group for expectantmums. Ask your midwife for details.Contact: 0845 345 9177

Ante-Natal ClinicWhere: Oldmixon Family CentreWhen: 1-4pm MondayContact: 0845 345 9177

SpringboardWhere: The For All Healthy Living CentreWhen: 9.30-3pm (term time) TuesdayWhat: For children with developmental delayand disabilitiesContact: Belinda 01934 426 165

PEEP on the Wild SideWhere: Oldmixon Family CentreWhen: 9.45-11.15am Tuesday monthlyWhat: Outdoor group for children fromconfident walkers- 4 yearsContact: Becki 01934 426881

Springboard Stay and PlayWhere: The For All Healthy Living CentreWhen: 12:45-2:34pm (term time) TuesdayWhat: For children with developmental delayand disabilitiesContact: 0845 345 9177

Wednesday Drop-InWhere: The For All Healthy Living CentreWhen: 9–11am WednesdayWhat: Advice & support, baby weighing –attended by a Health Visitor & Family SupportWorker.Contact: 01934 427550

Rug RatsWhere: Oldmixon Family CentreWhen: 10am–12pm WednesdayWhat: For parents aged 25 and under andtheir children of 0-5 yearsContact: 01934 426787

Baby DinersWhere: Oldmixon Family CentreWhen: 12-1.30pm ThursdayWhat: Weaning tips & ideas and any otherfeeding issues. Breastfeeding supportavailable.Contact: 01934 426845

Stay and PlayWhere: Oldmixon Family CentreWhen: 9.30-11.30am ThursdayWhat: Drop in group for parents and childrenContact: 01934 426881

Blue To NewWhere: Oldmixon Family CentreWhen: 12.15-1.45pm ThursdayWhat: Adult mental health drop in, open to allparents with children under the age of 5

Contact: 01934 826881

Antenatal ClinicWhere: Oldmixon Family CentreWhen: 2-4pm ThursdayContact: Call your midwife to book

Health Visitor Drop-InWhere: Oldmixon Family CentreWhen: 9–10.30am FridayWhat: Advice & support, baby weighing –attended by a Health Visitor & Family SupportWorker.Contact: 01934 426881

Mind Out! Childminder Drop inWhere: Oldmixon Family CentreWhen: 9.30-11.30am FridayWhat: Drop-in group for childminders’ andchildrenContact: 01934 426881

PEEP TalkWhere: The For All Healthy Living CentreWhen: 9.30-11am FridayWhat: Speech & Language Therapy groupContact: 01934 427364

Stay and PlayWhere: For All Healthy Living CentreWhen: 12:45-2:45pm FridayWhat: Drop in group for parents and childrenContact: Gina 01934 426824

Weston Central Children’s Centre,Meadow Street, Weston-super-Mare

Childminding Network GroupWhen: 9.30-11.30am (term time) MondayContact: Chris Avery 01934 426881

Drug, alcohol & prescribed medication Drop-inWhat: Drop in for any advice from a midwifeabout drugs, alcohol and prescribedmedication during pregnancyWhen: 3-4pm MondayContact: 01934 426794

Health Visitor Drop-In ClinicWhen: 10-11.30am TuesdayWhat: A member of the health visiting teamwill be available for health advice, behaviourconcerns and much more.Contact: 01934 426794

Baby DinersWhen: 12-1.30pm TuesdayWhat: Weaning tips & ideas and any otherfeeding issues. Breastfeeding supportavailable.Contact: 01934 647082

Midwife ClinicWhen: Wednesday afternoons, call for anappointmentContact: 01934 647082

Sunshine and PuddlesWhere: Old Town Quarry, Queens RoadWhen: 1-2.30pm (term time) WednesdayWhat: All weather outside Stay & Play forparents, carers, babies and toddlersContact: 01934 426794

Young Parents Stay and PlayWhen: 1-2.30pm ThursdayWhat: Activities and play for young parentsunder 21 and their baby or toddler aged over6 months.Contact: 01934 426794



Baby PEEPWhen: 10-11am ThursdayWhat: A 10 week courseContact: Debra 01275 884001 to book

Bookstart Rhymetimes and PEEPWhere: Weston Library, Town Hall, WallscoteGrove Road, Weston super MareWhen: 9:30-10:30am (term time) ThursdayWhat: Parents, carers, babies and toddlerswelcome for rhyme time and lots of funContact: 01934 426794

Bosom BuddiesWhen: 1:30-3pm FridayWhat: Support group to help continuebreastfeeding for mumsContact: 01934 426794

Yatton Moor Children’s Centre,Yatton Infant School, High Street,Yatton

Babes and BumpsWhen: 11am-12.30pm TuesdayWhat: Breastfeeding support with NCT-trainedbreastfeeding counsellor Val Dickens.Contact: 01934 426633

Young Parents GroupWhen: 10am-12pm (term time) WednesdayWhat: For young parents aged up to 21 yearsold.Contact: 01934 426633

Childminders NetworkWhen: 10am-12pm (term time) ThursdayContact: Maria Powell 01934 426903

Well Baby ClinicWhen: 1-3pm 1st and 3rd Thursday of themonthWhat: Baby/child weigh-in and adviceContact: 01934 852927

Social BabiesWhen: 1.15-2.30pm FridayWhere: Horsecastle Chapel, Yatton.What: Baby group for 0-9monthsContact: 01934 426633

Yeo Valley and Rural OutreachChildren's Centre, St. Andrews C OfE Primary School, Station Road,Congresbury

Bumps to BirthWhen: 11.15- 12.15pm 2nd Thursday of themonthContact: 01934 426643

LibrariesChildren’s Story Time (term time)

MondayClevedon Library - 2.15-2.45pmCongresbury Library - 2.30-3pm

TuesdayWeston Library - 1.30-2.30pmClevedon Library - 11.15-11.45amLong Ashton Library - 11.15-11.45amWorle Library - 2.15-2.45pm

ThursdayPortishead Library - 2.15-2.45pm

Nailsea Library - 2-2:30pmYatton Library - 2.30-3pm

FridayThe Campus Library - 9.15-9:45pmCongresbury Library - 3,30-4pm

Rhymetime (term time)

MondayWeston Library - 9.30-11amWednesdayCongresbury Library - 9.15-9.45am (fortnightly)

ThursdayFor All Healthy Living Centre - 2-2.30pm

FridayThe Campus - 9:15-9:45 the last Friday of themonthWeston Library - 9.30-10amPortishead library - 10.30-11am and 11.15-11.45am arrive 15mins before start time duelimited places and popular demandYatton Library - Alternates weekly from 9.30-10to 10-10:30am arrive 15 mins before start timedue to limited places and popular demand.Pill Library - 9.30-9.55am (first and third Friday ofthe month)

PlaygroupsMonday

Busy Bees Toddler GroupWhere: Nailsea Methodist Church andCommunity Centre, NailseaWhen: 9.30-11.30am (term time)Contact: 01275 854304

Churchill & Langford Mother & Toddler GroupWhere: Churchill Methodist Hall, Front Street, Nrthe Clock Tower, ChurchillWhen: 9.30-11.30am (term time)What: A friendly group of mums with activities,stories, songs and a snack.Contact: 07788856394

ClavertotsWhere: Claverham Village Hall, ClaverhamWhen: 10-11.45amWhat: Friendly baby and toddler group.Contact: Ruth MacNeill 01934 830605

ScramblersWhere: St James Church Hall, WinscombeWhen: 1.45-3pm term time.What: Small, friendly, baby and toddler groupwhich costs only 20p to include coffee/teaand biscuits and drink and biscuit for thechildren.Contact: Enid Clark on 07969436903

Tuesday

Horsecastle Toddler GroupWhere: Horsecastle Chapel, Horsecastle FarmRoad, YattonWhen: 9.45amWhat: Toddler group for under 3s with a singsong and free refreshmentsContact: 01934 838717

North Somerset Twins PlusWhere: Trinity Community Hall, Trinity PrimarySchool, PortisheadWhen: 9-11amWhat: Playgroup for carers with twins or more.Playtime and singing.Contact: Rachel 01275 818965

Little RascalsWhere: Old School Rooms, CongresburyWhen: 9.15-11.30amWhat: Friendly baby and toddler group.Contact: Louise 07979 803313

Grandparents Toddler GroupWhere: Nailsea Youth HouseWhen: 10-11.30amWhat: for grandparents who care for theirgrandchildren during the week.Contact: Diane 01275 855860

Little InspirationsWhere: Christ Church, 16 Montpelier, Westonsuper MareWhen: 10–11.30am, 1.15–2.45pm (term time)What: Playgroup with toys and craftsContact: 01934 641016 [email protected]

Morning Break Toddler GroupWhere: Holy Trinity Church, NailseaWhen: 9.30-11.45am (term time)Contact: 01275 853227

St Andrew’s Toddler GroupWhere: St Andrew’s Church Centre, OldChurch Road, Clevedon.When: 10amContact: 01275 872822

St Peter’s Toddler Church GroupWhere: St Jude’s Hall, Baytree Road, WestonWhen: 10-11.30amContact: 01934 624203

St Peters Church TotsWhere: St Peter’s Church, Nore Road,PortisheadWhen: 2.15-3.15pm (term time)Contact: 01275 846145

Vintage Toddler GroupWhere: Vintage Community Church (FormallyPurple Sheep)When: 10-11.30 (term time)What: Group for under 4s. £2 per family.Weekly craft, toast, juice, free play and songand storyContact: 01934 620500

Worle Baptist Toddler GroupWhere: Worle Baptist Church, Rawlins Avenue,WorleWhen: 10-11.30amContact: 01934 521642

Wrington Little StarsWhere: Wrington Memorial Hall, Silver StreetWhen: 1.30-3pm (term time)What: Everyone very welcome.Contact: Amy 01934 862287

Wednesday

Milton Play GroupWhere: Milton Baptist Church, Milton Rd,WestonWhen: 9.15-10.45am; 11am-12.30pm and 1.15-2.45pm (term time)What: Story/singing or parachute at the endContact: Becky Allison 07827 811402

Mizzymead Toddlers, NailseaWhere: Mizzymead Recreation Centre,When: 9.30-11.30amContact: 01275 854181

Backwell Baptist Church Toddler GroupWhere: Backwell Baptist Church



When: 10-11.30am (term time)Contact: 01934 842170

SunbeamsWhere: Wrington United Reformed Church,Ropers Lane, WringtonWhen: 10-11.30amWhat: Parent and toddler fun

ClavertotsWhere: Claverham Village Hall, ClaverhamWhen: 10-11.45amWhat: Friendly baby and toddler group.Contact: Ruth MacNeill 01934 830605

Horsecastle Toddler GroupWhere: Horsecastle Chapel, Horsecastle FarmRoad, YattonWhen: 9.45amWhat: For under 3s & with a sing songContact: 01934 838717

Bleadon Baby / Toddler groupWhere: Bleadon Village Hall, Bridge RoadWhen: 9.30-11.30am (term time)What: Separate baby area, toys, arts andcrafts table, singing and activities.

Mizzymead Toddlers, NailseaWhere: Mizzymead Recreation Centre,When: 9.30-11.30amContact: 01275 854181

Southfield Toddlers, NailseaWhere: Southfield Church Lower HallWhen: 10-11.30amContact: 01275 854575

Sparks Parent & Toddler GroupWhere: St Paul's Church Hall, Walliscote Road,WestonWhen: 9.45-11.30amWhat: Drop in for a play and a chatContact: 01934 613259

Westleaze Toddler GroupWhere: Church House, Long Ashton Road,Long AshtonWhen: 9.30-11.30am (term time)Contact: 01275 395533

Winscombe Baby and Toddler GroupWhere: Preschool behind WinscombeCommunity CentreWhen: 1.30-3pmContact: Kate 01934 822607

Thursday

Backwell Toddler GroupWhere: Backwell Parish Hall, Station Road,BackwellWhen: 10-11.30am (term time)Contact: 01275 463182

Weston Twins and MoreWhere: Kids Hut, Winter GardensWhen: 9.30-12.00pm (once a month in termtime)What: A group for mums and mums to be oftwins, triplets or more. A new class startingsoon in Kewstoke, call for detailsContact: 01934 417117or email:[email protected]

Milton Methodist Carers and ToddlersWhere: Milton Methodist Church, Milton HillWhen: 10-11.30am (term time)Contact: Lizzie 07581 649996

Monkey Puzzle Soft PlayWhere: Croscombe Village Hall, Fayre Way,Croscombe, Wells

When: 1-3pm (term time), (9th, 16th, 23rd May,6th, 13th, 27th Jun, 4th, 11th, 18th Jul)Contact: 07956 [email protected]

Cleeve’s Lord Nelson Kids GroupWhere: The Lord Nelson, Main Road, CleeveWhen: 9.30-11amWhat: Drop in for a free cuppa, meet othermums and let your 0-4 year olds play in theoutside play area, on the bouncy caslte andin the skittle alley area.Contact: Emma 01934 832170

Café with Toys (WsMum)Where: Barcode Youth Cafe, WestonWhen: 10-12pmWhat: Meet other families - toys and gamessupplied for babies and toddlers, Brandon TrustCafe runs the cafe for drinks and cake.Sidcot Toddler GroupWhere: Sidcot Junior School, Oakridge Lane,WinscombeWhen: 9-11am (term time)What; Group for babies, toddlers and pre-school children (under 5s).Contact: 01934 845299

Bouncy Castle CafeWhere: Vintage Community Church (FormallyPurple Sheep), Hughenden Road, WestonWhen: 10-4.30pmContact: 01934 620500

St Andrew’s Baby/Toddler Drop-in GroupWhere: St Andrew’s Church refectory, StationRoad, Congresbury.When: 9.15-11.45am (term time)What: For parents/carers and kids aged 0-3.Contact: 01934 833850 (Wed 6-9pm)

St Andrew’s Toddler GroupWhere: St Andrew’s Church Centre, OldChurch Road, Clevedon.When: 2pmContact: 01934 833850

St John’s Toddler GroupWhere: St John’s Church, Lower Church Road,Weston-super-MareWhen: 9.45-11.15amWhat: Parent and toddler groupContact: 01934 622152

Tickenham Parents and ToddlersWhere: Tickenham Village HallWhen: 10-11.30am (term time)Contact: 07764 199065

Uphill Toddler GroupWhere: Uphill Church HallWhen: 1.30-3pm

Worlebury TotsWhere: Worlebury St Pauls SchoolWhen: 10amWhat: A chance to catch up and make newfriends, toys, story, singing, refreshmentsContact: [email protected]

Friday

Bumps to ToddlersWhere: Nailsea Youth HouseWhen: 10-11.30amContact: 07792 [email protected]

Bristol Road Baptist Church TotsWhere: Southside, WestonWhen: 9.30-11am (term time)What: Friendly group with a sing songContact: 01934 419387

Bumps to ToddlersWhere: Nailsea Youth HouseWhen: 10-11.30amContact: 07792 [email protected]

Sunday

Messy GangWhere: Churchill Methodist Church Hall, FrontStreet, ChurchillWhen: Every 3rd Sunday of the month (exceptin August) 3.30-5.30pmWhat: Crafts and games with a biblical theme,small service and tea for children 4-8 (must beaccompanied)Tel: Zoe 01934 852606 or Clare 01934 853158

Music ClassesBoogie Beatwww.boogiebeat.co.uk

Boogie Beat Music and MovementWhere: Cheddar Catholic Hall, Upper NorthStreet, CheddarWhen: 9.30am – 10.15am MondayWhat: Active and lively pre-school music anddance classes incorporating traditionalfairytales and nursery rhymes.Contact: Nicky 01934 741648 / Lisa 01934744272 www.boogiebeat.co.uk

Boogie Beat Music and MovementWhere: ClevedonWhen: 9.40am and 10.25am TuesdayWhat: Active and lively pre-school music anddance classes incorporating traditionalfairytales and nursery rhymes.Contact: 01934 852868 or 01934 [email protected]

Boogie Beat Music and MovementWhere: Our Lady of Lourdes Church Hall,Baytree Road, Milton, Weston-super-MareWhen: 11-11.45am WednesdayWhat: Active and lively pre-school music anddance classes incorporating traditionalfairytales and nursery rhymesContact: Nicky 01934 741648 / Lisa 01934744272 www.boogiebeat.co.uk

Boogie Beat Music and MovementWhere: Scotch Horn Leisure Centre, NailseaWhen: 9.40-10.25am WednesdayWhat: Active and lively pre-school music anddance classes incorporating traditionalfairytales and nursery rhymesContact: 01934 852868 or 01934 877051

Boogie Beat Music and MovementWhere: PortisheadWhen: 11.15-12pm WednesdayWhat: Active and lively pre-school music anddance classes incorporating traditionalfairytales and nursery rhymesContact: 01934 852868 or 01934 [email protected]

Boogie Beat Music and MovementWhere: Wrington Cricket Pavilion, WringtonWhen: 9.40am -10.25am FridayWhat: Active and lively pre-school music anddance classes incorporating traditionalfairytales and nursery rhymes usingContact: Nicky 01934 741648 / Lisa 01934744272 www.boogiebeat.co.uk



Boogie Beat Music and MovementWhere: Winscombe Community Centre,WinscombeWhen: 11am – 11.45am FridayWhat: Active and lively pre-school music anddance classes incorporating traditionalfairytales and nursery rhymesContact: Nicky 01934 741648 / Lisa 01934744272 www.boogiebeat.co.uk

Disco DiapersT: 07913 656978

Where: Scout Hut, Wansborough Road, WorleWhen: 9.45am-11am, TuesdaysWhat: Music inspired toddler group from birthupwardsContact: 07913 656978

Let’s Go BananasT: 07871 206810www.letsgobananas.net

Let’s Go BananasWhere: Vintage Community Church (FormallyPurple Sheep)When: 9.40 and 10.30am TuesdayWhat: A class with musical instruments, fingerpuppets, balls, a parachute, cuddy toys andstory booksContact: 07871 206810www.letsgobananas.net

Music with Mummywww.musicwithmummy.co.uk

Music with MummyWhere: Weston-super-MareWhen: 9.30am, 11am, 12.30pm and 1.45pmMondayWhat: Small friendly groups for pre-schoolchildren and babies offering a funintroduction to musical educationContact: Pat Maddy 01934 [email protected]

Jolly BabiesWhere: Weston-super-MareWhen: 11am and 1.30pm TuesdayWhat: Gentle introduction to music for under1sContact: Pat Maddy 01934 [email protected]

Music with MummyWhere: Weston-super-MareWhen: 9.30am TuesdayWhat: Small friendly groups for pre-schoolchildren and babies offering a funintroduction to musical educationContact: Pat Maddy 01934 [email protected]

Music with MummyWhere: Tennis Club, Burnham-on-SeaWhen: 9:30 and 11am TuesdayWhat: Small friendly groups for pre-schoolchildren and babies offering a funintroduction to musical educationContact: Sarah Cole 07977 591847

Jolly BabiesWhere: Weston-super-MareWhen: 11am and 3pm WednesdayWhat: Gentle introduction to music for under1sContact: Pat Maddy 01934 [email protected]

Music with MummyWhere: Weston-super-MareWhen: 9.30am, 11am, 13.30pm and 15.00pmWednesdayWhat: Small friendly groups for pre-schoolchildren and babies offering a funintroduction to musical educationContact: Pat Maddy 01934 [email protected]

Baby Sign LanguageSing and SignT: 07955 186390www.singandsign.com

Sing and SignWhere: Locking Castle ChurchWhen: 1.30-2.30pm FridayWhat: Musical signing classes for babies andtoddlersContact: Lisa 07955186390

Sing and SignWhere: Puxton ParkWhen: 10-11am FridayWhat: Musical signing classes for babies andtoddlersContact: Lisa 07955186390

Sing and SignWhere: Puxton ParkWhen: 11-12pm FridayWhat: Musical signing classes for babies andtoddlersContact: Lisa 07955186390

Top of the TotsT: 01934 877406www.topofthetotsyatton.co.uk

Top of the TotsWhere: Hangstone's Pavillion, Yatton BS49 4HSWhen: Various times starting 9.30 FridayWhat: Music and baby sign language classesfor babies, toddlers, pre-schoolers andchildren with additional needs.Contact: Alison 01934 877406,[email protected]

Dance ClassesJ Fox School of Dance153 High Street, WorleT: 01934 522724www.jacquelinefoxschoolofdance.co.uk

Sunbeam Baby BalletWhen: 2.15-3pm MondayWhat: Ballet dance class for boys and girls from2.5 years old.

Primary/Grade 1 BalletWhen: 4-4.45pm MondayWhat: Ballet class for grade 1

Primary/Grade 1 TapWhen: 4-4.45pm MondayWhat: Tap dance class for boys and girls from2.5 years old.

Preparatory TapWhen: 4.45-5.30pm MondayWhat: Preparatory tap class from 5 years.

Preparatory BalletWhen: 4.00-4.45pm MondayWhat: Preparatory ballet class from 4 years.

Adult JazzWhen: 7-8pm MondayContact: 01934 522724

Musical TheatreWhen: 4-4.45pm TuesdayWhat: Show style musical theatre techniquesfrom 5 years old.

Primary BalletWhen: 4-4.45pm WednesdayWhat: Primary ballet classes from 6 years old.

Street/Hip HopWhen: 4-4.45pm WednesdayWhat: Primary ballet classes from 6 years old.

Baby StepsWhen: 11.30-12pm ThursdayWhat: Parents and toddler dance class from18months

Mini ModernWhen: 10.30-11.15am ThursdayWhat: Modern dance classes for children from2.5 years

Stars in TrainingWhen: 4.45-5.30pm ThursdayWhat: Musical theatre class from 5 years.

Prep Modern JazzWhen: 4-4.45pm ThursdayWhat: Prep Modern Jazz/Freestyle from 5 years.

Preparatory BalletWhen: 4.45-5.30pm ThursdayWhat: Preparatory ballet class from 5 years.

Mini Modern DanceWhen: 9.30-10.15am FridayWhat: Mini modern dance class for boys andgirls from 2.5 years.

Sunbeam Baby BalletWhen: 11.30-12.15pm and 2-2.45pm FridayWhat: Ballet dance class for boys and girls from2.5 years.

Preparatory BalletWhen: from 4pm FridayWhat: Preparatory ballet class from 5 years.

Preparatory BalletWhen: Saturday 10.45-11.30amWhat: Preparatory ballet class from 5 years.

Preparatory TapWhen: Saturday 11.30-12.15pmWhat: Preparatory tap class from 5 years.

Hip Hop/FreestyleWhen: Saturday 11.30-12.15pmWhat: from 5 years.

The Dance CompanyT: 01934 522959E: [email protected]

BalletWhere: Fairlands Middle School, CheddarWhen: 4pm- 8.30pm MondayWhat: Pre-Primary, Grade 1 and Grade 3 andGrade 4



BalletWhere: Victory Hall, UphillWhen: 3pm onwards MondayWhat: Baby, Pre-Primary and Grade 1 ballet

ModernWhere: Victory Hall, UphillWhen: 3pm onwards MondayWhat: Primary and Grade 1

TapWhere: Fairlands Middle School, CheddarWhen: 4pm onwards MondayWhat: Grade 1 and 2 Tap.

Tap/ModernWhere: Victory Hall, UphillWhen: 4.30-5.15pm MondayWhat: Primary age dance class.

BabiesWhere: Studio Fifty Five, WestonWhen: 3-3.45pm TuesdayWhat: Babies focused dance group

BalletWhere: Studio Fifty Five, WestonWhen: 3.45pm onwards TuesdayWhat: Primary, Grade 1, 2 and 3 Ballet classes.

Hip-HopWhere: Studio Fifty-Five, WestonWhen: 6.45-7.45pm TuesdayWhat: 7 years +

Senior ClassesWhere: Our Lady of Lourdes, Baytree Road,WestonWhen: 4.30-8.30pm TuesdayWhat: Modern, Tap and contemporary Jazz

BalletWhere: Studio Fifty Five, WestonWhen: 3.45pm onwards WednesdayWhat: Primary and grades 1 and 2 tap dance

ModernWhere: Studio Fifty-Five, WestonWhen: 4.30pm onwards ThursdayWhat: Senior dance classes

TapWhere: St Mark’s School, WorleWhat: Grades 4 & 5 Thursday

Baby, pre-primary, primary balletWhere: Old Church Rooms, CongresburyWhen: Saturday from 9amWhat: Children’s ballet classes.

Baby, pre-primary, primary balletWhere: Studio Fifty-Five, WestonWhen: Saturday from 9amWhat: Children’s ballet classes.

ModernWhere: Congresbury Old School RoomsWhen: 9am onwardsWhat: Primary, Grades 1, 2, 3 and 4

ModernWhere: Studio Fifty-Five, WestonWhen: 9am onwardsWhat: Primary and Grade 1

TapWhere: Old School Rooms, CongresburyWhen: 9am onwardsWhat: Primary and Grade 1, 2 & 3

TapWhere: Studio Fifty- Five, WestonWhen: 9am onwards

What: Primary and Grade 1

DancefitT: 07701 045993www.dancefitsomerset.co.ukBaby BalletWhen: Monday 2-2:30pmWhat: Ballet classes for 2 and a ½ and upwards

BalletWhen: Monday 4-4:45pmWhat: Ballet classes for 4-6 years

Boogie BabiesWhen: Tuesday 9:30-10:15amWhat: Music and movement classes for 18months+

Boogie BoppersWhen: Tuesday 10:30-11:15amWhat: Modern dance classes for 2 1/2+ years

Primary TapWhen: Tuesday 4-4:30pmWhat: Tap dancing classes for 4-7years

Street KidzWhen: Thursday 4-4:45pmWhat: Dance class for 4-7 years

Baby TapWhen: Friday 10:30-11amWhat: Tap dancing classes for 2 ½ years+

Dinky DanceWhen: Friday 4-4:30pmWhat: Modern dance classes for 3-5years

Baby BalletWhen: Saturday 10:15-11amWhat: Ballet dance classes for 2 ½ years+

SwimmingHutton Moor Leisure CentreT: 01934 425900www.leisurecentre.comTuesdayWhen: 11-11.30am under 18 months, 11.30-12pm 18months-3 years (term time)Contact: 01934 425900

Little FishT: 01275 371626www.littlefishbristol.comWednesdayWhere: North SomersetWhen: 3-5.30pmWhat: Swimming lessons for those in preschoolchildren and those at a beginner andintermediate level.

FridayWhere: Weston-super-MareWhen: 4-6pmWhat: Swimming lessons for those in Preschooland at a beginners level.

WeekendWhere: Weston-super-MareWhen: Saturday 9-10.30amWhat: Swimming lessons for those in Preschooland at beginner level

Where: BristolWhen: Saturday 4.10-6pmWhat: Swimming lessons for toddlers andpreschool ages.

Where: BristolWhen: Sunday 12-4.40pmWhat: Swimming lessons for children ofpreschool age and beginners andintermediate levels

Where: BristolWhen: Sunday 3.30-5pmWhat: Swimming lessons for toddlers andpreschool ages

Puddle DucksT: 0117 9717165www.puddleducks.comMondayWhere: The Grand Thistle Hotel, BristolWhen: 10am-12pmWhat: preschool swimming classes for 0-4 years

Where: St Mary Recliffe School. BristolWhen: 8.30am-12pmWhat: preschool swimming classes for 0-4 yearolds and school aged swimming classes for4-10 year olds

Where: theclub at CadburyWhen: 1.30-3.30pmWhat: preschool swimming classes for 0-4 years

WednesdayWhere: theclub at CadburyWhen: 1.30-3pm and 4-5.30pmWhat: preschool swimming classes for 0-4 years

Where: theclub at CadburyWhen: 7-7.45pmWhat: aqua-natal classes for mums-to-be

Where: Plush Hotel, RedhillWhen: 9.30am-12pmWhat: preschool swimming classes for 0-4 years

Where: The Grand Thistle Hotel, BristolWhen: 10-11.30amWhat: preschool swimming classes for 0-4 years

ThursdayWhere: The Grand Thistle Hotel, BristolWhen: 10am-12pmWhat: preschool swimming classes for 0-4 years

FridayWhere: theclub at CadburyWhen: 1.30-4pm and 4-6pmWhat: preschool swimming classes for 0-4 years

Where: Plush Hotel, RedhillWhen: 9.45-1pmWhat: preschool swimming classes for 0-4 years

WeekendsWhere: Plush Hotel, RedhillWhen: 8-10.30am SaturdayWhat: preschool swimming classes for 0-4 years

Where: The Campus, WestonWhen: 1.30-4pm SundayWhat: preschool swimming classes for 0-4 years

Turtle TotsT: 07841 514093www.turtletots.comWeekendsWhen: Saturday 2.30- 4.30pmWhere: The Campus, Locking Castle, Weston.Contact: 07841 514093

When: Sunday 10-12pm



What: Baby and toddler lessonsWhere: The Campus, Locking Castle, Weston.Contact: 07841 514093

Water BabiesT: 0117 946 6919www.waterbabies.co.ukMondayWhere: Freeways, Leigh Court Day Centre. PillRoad, Abbots LeighWhen: classes from 9-10.30am (term time)What: A specialist baby swim school offeringstructured swimming classes for babies(booking required)

Where: The Campus, Locking Castle, WestonWhen: classes from 4.45-6.15pm (term time)What: A specialist baby swim school offeringstructured swimming classes for babies(booking required)

TuesdayWhere: Freeways, Leigh Court Day Centre. PillRoad, Abbots LeighWhen: classes from 2-3.30pm (term time only)What: A specialist baby swim school offeringstructured swimming classes for babies(booking required)


WednesdayWhere: Freeways, Leigh Court Day Centre. PillRoad, Abbots LeighWhen: classes from 9-4.30pm (term time)What: A specialist baby swim school offeringstructured swimming classes for babies(booking required)


ThursdayWhere: The Campus in Locking Castle, WestonWhen: 4.45-6.15pm (term time)What: A specialist baby swim school offeringstructured swimming classes for babies(booking required)

FridayWhere: Freeways, Leigh Court Day Centre. PillRoad, Abbots LeighWhen: classes from 4-5.30pm (term time)What: A specialist baby swim school offeringstructured swimming classes for babies(booking required)

WeekendsWhen: Sat & Sun. Call for class times (termtime)Where: Freeways, Leigh Court Day Centre. PillRoad, Abbots LeighWhat: A specialist baby swim school offeringstructured swimming classes for babies(booking required)

Mum’s Fitness ClassesFit2DropT: 07855 427305

www.fit2drop.comMondayPost Natal Fitness ClassesWhere: Long Ashton Village HallWhen: 12.30pm

Pregnancy PilatesWhere: Long Ashton Village HallWhen: 7.30pm

TuesdayPilatesWhere: Long Ashton Village HallWhen: 6.30pm

Buggy BootcampWhere: Meet at Long Ashton Village HallWhen: 9.45-10.45am

WednesdayPost Natal Fitness ClassesWhere: Long Ashton Village HallWhen: 12.30pm

High Intensity CircuitsWhere: Long Ashton Village HallWhen: 7.30pm

Post Natal Rehabilitation WorkshopWhere: Long Ashton Village HallWhen: 1.30pm

SundayPregnancy Aqua YogaWhere: St Mary Redcliffe PoolWhen: 7.30pm Sunday

Hutton Moor Leisure CentreT: 01934 425900www.leisurecentre.comPre and Post Natal Exercise (babies welcome)Where: Hutton Moor Leisure Centre, HuttonMoor Road, Weston-super-MareWhen: 11.30am-12.30pm Monday, creche forchildren aged 0-4years, availableContact: 01934 425900

Rane FitnessT:07801 272255www.ranefitness.co.ukMondayWhere: @WorleWhen: 7.15-8.15pmWhat: Muscle conditioning circuit

TuesdayWhere: Ashcombe ParkWhen: 6-7pmWhat: Bootcamp

Where: @WorleWhen: 7-8pmWhat: Runners Club

WednesdayWhere: Clarence ParkWhen: 9.30-10.30amWhat: Bootcamp

Where: @WorleWhen: 6.15-7.15pmWhat: Freestyle Step

Where: @WorleWhen: 7.15-8.15pmWhat: Thighs Bums and Tums

ThursdayWhere: Locking ParklandsWhen: 7.15-8.15pmWhat: Bootcamp

FridayWhere: Grove ParkWhen: 9.30-10.30amWhat: Bootcamp

Sara James FitnessT: 07789 268344www.sarajamesfitness.co.ukTuesdayTone with TotsWhere: PortisheadWhen: 1.30-2.30pmWhat: Fitness class for mum and baby. PAYG£7.50 per session

FridayTone with TotsWhere: The Old School Rooms, CongresburyWhen: 11.15-12.15pmWhat: Fitness class for mum and baby. PAYG£7.50 per sessionContact: Sara James Fitness 07789 268344

Activity ClassesAB Soccer TotsT: 07800 630517www.abcoaching.org.ukWeekendsWhere: Hans Price Academy, Marchfields way,Weston-super-MareWhen: Courses for various ages (under 7) 9am-11am Saturday

Where: Hans Price Academy, Marchfields way,Weston-super-MareWhen: Courses for various ages (under 7)10am-11.20am Sunday

Gemini GymT: 01275 854872 / 866419www.geminigymclub.comTuesdayFUN4BABYWhere: Gemini Gym, Blackfriars Road, NailseaWhen: 9.30-10.10What: providing exercise from a young agethrough the medium of play

Gemini GymWhere: Blackfriars Road, NailseaWhen: 9.30am-10.10am, 10.25am-11.10am,11.20am-12.05pm, 12.15pm-1.00pm, 1.30pm-2.15pmWhat: Physical fun for pre-schoolers, variousclasses for different ages

ThursdayGemini Gym Pre-School ClassesWhere: Gemini Gym, Blackfriars Road, NailseaWhen: Various Classes 10.25am-12.15pmWhat: help children develop important social,physical and educational skills throughexercise and play

FridayGemini Gym Pre-School ClassesWhere: Gemini Gym, Blackfriars Road, NailseaWhen: Various Classes 9.30am-2.15pmWhat: help children develop important social,



physical and educational skills throughexercise and play

Hutton Moor Leisure CentreT: 01934 425900www.leisurecentre.com

MondayJump & JiggleWhere: Hutton Moor Leisure Centre, HuttonMoor Road, Weston-super-MareWhen: Multiple classes between 9.30am-2pmWhat: Active preschool hour long sessions, splitinto two age groups – 1-2 years and 2-5 years,run as a course during term timeContact: 01934 425900 - booking required

TuesdayJump & JiggleWhere: Hutton Moor Leisure Centre, HuttonMoor Road, Weston-super-MareWhen: Multiple classes between 9.30am-2pmWhat: Active preschool hour long sessions, splitinto two age groups – 1-2 years and 2-5 years,run as a course during term timeContact: 01934 425900 - booking required

WednesdayJump & JiggleWhere: Hutton Moor Leisure Centre, HuttonMoor Road, Weston-super-MareWhen: Multiple classes between 9.30am-2pmWhat: Active preschool hour long sessions, splitinto two age groups – 1-2 years and 2-5 years,run as a course during term timeContact: 01934 425900 - booking required

ThursdayJump & JiggleWhere: Hutton Moor Leisure Centre, HuttonMoor Road, Weston-super-MareWhen: Multiple classes between 9.30am-2pmWhat: Active preschool hour long sessions, splitinto two age groups – 1-2 years and 2-5 years,run as a course during term timeContact: 01934 425900 - booking required

FridayJump & JiggleWhere: Hutton Moor Leisure Centre, HuttonMoor Road, Weston-super-MareWhen: Multiple classes between 9.30am-2pmWhat: Active preschool hour long sessions, splitinto two age groups – 1-2 years and 2-5 years,run as a course during term timeContact: 01934 425900 - booking required

WeekendsLet’s Skate RollerdiscoWhere: Scotch Horn Leisure CentreWhen: One Saturday a month 3-5pmWhat: £4.50 including free skate hireContact: Nicky 07766 335 799

Let’s Skate RollerdiscoWhere: Hutton Moor Leisure CentreWhen: One Saturday a month 5.30-7.30pmWhat: £4.50 including free skate hireContact: Nicky 07766 335 799

Monkey Puzzle Soft PlayT: 07956 536242www.monkeypuzzlesoftplay.co.uk

When: Thursday 1-3.pm (term time)Where: Croscombe Village Hall, Fayre Way,Croscombe, WellsWhat: Regular soft play sessions for 0-4 year

oldsContact: 07956 [email protected]

Rugby TotsT: 0845 313 3250www.rugbytots.co.uk

MondayWhere: Cleeve Village HallWhen: 10am and 10.45 MondayWhat: Rugby specific play programme for 2 to3 ½ year olds

TuesdayWhere: Long Ashton Village HallWhen: 9:30 am for 2-3 ½ year and 10:15 for 3 ½to 5 yearsWhat: Rugby specific play programme foryoung children

ThursdayWhere: Compton MartinWhen: 1:15pm for 3 ½- 5 years and 2:10 for 2-3½ yearsWhat: Rugby specific play programme foryoung children

FridayWhere: Long Ashton Village HallWhen: 10am for 2-3 ½ year and 11am for 3 ½to 5 yearsWhat: Rugby specific play programme foryoung children

SaturdayWhere: Clevedon School Sport’s CentreWhen: 9:15am for 2-3 ½ years, 10 for 3 ½ to 5years and 10:55 for 4-6 yearsWhat: Rugby specific play programme foryoung children

Where: Gordano Sport’s Centre, PortisheadWhen: 9:15 am for 2-3 ½ year and 10:00 for 3 ½to 5 years and 11:35 for 5-7 yearsWhat: Rugby specific play programme foryoung children

SundayWhere: Redford LodgeWhen: 9:20 am for 2-3 ½ year and 10am for 3½ to 5 yearsWhat: Rugby specific play programme foryoung children

Splat Messy PlayT: 07547 384303www.splatmessyplay.co.uk

MondayWhere: Wansborough Road Scout Hut, Worle.What: Messy play sessions for babies andpreschoolers.When: 12.45- 1.45pm

TuesdayWhere: Banwell Village HallWhat: Messy play sessions for babies andpreschoolers.When: 1.00pm-2.00pm

WednesdayWhere: Banwell Village HallWhat: Messy play sessions for babies andpreschoolers.When: 10.30am-11.30am

ThursdayWhere: Wansborough Road Scout Hut, Worle.What: Messy play sessions for babies andpreschoolers.When: 9.45 and 11.15am

FridayWhere: Wansborough Road Scout Hut, Worle.What: Messy play sessions for babies andpreschoolers.When: 9.45am & 12.45pm

Drama ClassesAliCaTT: 07757 794284www.alicat.meMondayAliCaT Children’s Theatre- SeniorWhere: Backwell PlayhouseWhen: 4.45-6.45pm (term time)What: Musical theatre classes for Yr 7-11

WednesdayAliCaT Children’s Theatre- FoundationWhere: Backwell PlayhouseWhen: Foundation 4-5pm (term time)What: Musical theatre classes reception to Yr 2

AliCaT Children’s Theatre- JuniorsWhere: Backwell PlayhouseWhen: Juniors 5.15-6.45pm (term time)What: Musical theatre classes for Yr 3to Yr 6

ThursdayAliCaT Children’s Theatre- FoundationWhen: 4-5pmWhat: Musical theatre classes reception to yr 2

AliCaT Children’s Theatre- JuniorsWhere: Venue 35, Stoke LaneWhen: 5.15-6.45pm (term time)What: Musical theatre classes for Year 3-Yr 6

FridayAliCaT Children’s Theatre – PreschoolWhere: Backwell PlayhouseWhen: 12.15-1.15pm & 1.45-2.45pm(term time)What: Musical theatre classes for toddlers

AliCaT Children’s Theatre- FoundationWhere: Backwell PlayhouseWhen: 4-5pm (term time)What: Musical theatre classes reception to Yr 6

AliCaT Children’s Theatre- JuniorsWhere: Backwell PlayhouseWhen: 5.15-6.45pm (term time)What: Musical theatre classes reception to Yr 6Contact: 07757 794284

SundayAliCaT Children’s Theatre- FoundationWhere: Backwell PlayhouseWhen: 3.15- 4.15pm (term time)What: Musical theatre classes for reception- Yr2, Yr 3-6 and Yr 7-11

AliCaT Children’s Theatre- JuniorWhere: Backwell PlayhouseWhen: 4.30-6pm (term time)What: Musical theatre classes for reception- Yr2, Yr 3-6 and Yr 7-11

AliCaT Children’s Theatre- SeniorWhere: Backwell PlayhouseWhen: 6.30 -8.30pm (term time)What: Musical theatre classes for reception- Yr2, Yr 3-6 and Yr 7-11



StagecoachT: 0117 953 2500www.stagecoach.co.ukFridayEarly StagesWhere: Gordano School, PortisheadWhen: 4.15-5.45pmWhat: Singing, Dance & Drama for 4-6 yearolds

Where: Gordano School, PortisheadWhen: 4.30-7.30pmWhat: Singing, Dance & Drama for 6-18 yr olds

SaturdayEarly StagesWhere: Birdwell Primary School, Long AshtonWhen: 9.30-11am and 11.15-12.45pmWhat: Singing, Dance & Drama for 4-6 yearolds

Where: Birdwell Primary School, Long AshtonWhen: 10-1pmWhat: Singing, Dance & Drama for 6-18 yr olds

Baby ClassesBaby SensoryT: 07961 655121www.babysensory.comTuesdayWhere: Our Lady of Lourdes Church Hall,

Baytree Road, Milton, WestonWhen: 10-11am TuesdayWhat: Developmental classes for babies birth-13months

WednesdayWhere: Blackford Village HallWhen: 10-11amWhat: Sensory baby development class usingbubbles, instruments, lights, puppets.

ThursdayWhere: Locking Castle Church HallWhen: 10-11am, 11.30-12.30pm and 1-2pmWhat: Developmental classes for babies birth-13months

FridayWhere: Avon Way Hall, Avon Way, PortisheadWhen: 10.45-11.45 and 12.15-1.15pmWhat: Sensory baby development class usingbubbles, instruments, lights and puppets.

Baby MassageT: 07792 783713www.westonwellbeing.co.ukWednesdayWhere: Bella Vista Hotel, Upper Church Road,Weston.When: 1.30-3pmWhat: Suitable for babies under a year.Includes handouts, organic oils andrefreshments. Booking essential, discount forMD readers.

ThursdayWhere: Bella Vista Hotel in Upper ChurchRoad, WestonWhen: 1-2.30pmWhat: Baby massage workshops for dads andmums with handout pack, two week familypass to Cadbury House and cake. Discount forMD readers.

SpecialsAt BristolT: 0117 909 2000www.at-bristol.org.uk

Spring Night Sky Planetarium ShowWhen: At regular intervals throughout the day,please phone in advance to checktimes/availability, running until June 16thWhat: Enjoy a tour of the night sky with apresenter-led show.

Kitchen ChemistryWhen: drop-in sessions throughout the day,running until July 7thWhat: Discover why foods change whenthey’re cooked, and take part in some funexperiments to see if you can trick yourtastebuds

Toddler TakeoverWhen: May 17th 10am-4pmWhat: A fun-packed day of activitiesexclusively for under 5s.



Health VisitorDrop-In/Clinics

MondayPostnatal ChecksWhere: Locking Castle Children’s CentreWhen: 9am-12pmWhat: Postnatal appointments onlyContact: Ashcombe Ward 01934 647082

Health Visitors Well Baby ClinicWhere: Long Ashton Children’s CentreWhen: 1.30-3.15pmContact: Sue or Susan 07775 994259

Ante-Natal ClinicWhere: Oldmixon Family CentreWhen: 1-4pmContact: 0845 345 9177

Health Visitor Drop-In ClinicWhere: Weston Central Children’s CentreWhen: 10-11.30amWhat: A member of the health visiting team willbe available for health advice, behaviourconcerns and much more.Contact: 01934 426794

TuesdayPostnatal ClinicWhere: Ashcombe Children’s CentreWhen: 9.20-12.20pm (please ring)What: Midwife appointmentsContact: Kirsty Gardner 01934 647082

Midwife ClinicWhere: Banwell, Winscombe and SandfordChildren’s Centre

When: 9.30-12pmWhat: Post natal checks availableContact: Your midwife for an appt

Well Baby ClinicWhere: Clevedon Children’s CentreWhen: 1-3pmWhat: Baby advice clinicContact: Rose de Greeff, Lynne Cunniffe andRachel Browne 01275 885514

Early Pregnancy Drop InWhere: Nailsea and Backwell Children’s CentreWhen: 9.30-11.00amContact: 01934 426618

WednesdayBaby ClinicWhere: Banwell, Winscombe and SandfordChildren’s CentreWhen: 1.30-3.30pm 1st and 3rd Wednesday ofthe monthWhat: Health Visitor available for healthadvice, behaviour concerns and much more.Contact: Sara Zinn 01934 844 236

Child Health ClinicWhere: Locking Castle Children’s CentreWhen: 10-12amContact: 01275 885 601

Wednesday Drop-InWhere: The For All Healthy Living CentreWhen: 9–11amWhat: Advice & support, baby weighing –attended by a Health Visitor & Family SupportWorker.Contact: 01934 427550

Midwife ClinicWhere: Weston Central

When: Wednesday afternoons, call for anappointmentContact: 01934 647082

ThursdayHealth Visitor Drop-InWhere: Ashcombe Children’s CentreWhen: 2pm-3.30pmWhat: health visitor drop-in combined with stayand playContact: 01934 426380

Child Health ClinicWhere: Milton and Old Worle Children’s CentreWhen: 9.45-11.15amContact: Worle Health Visitors 01275 885 601Antenatal ClinicWhere: Oldmixon Family CentreWhen: 2-4pm book with midwifeContact: 01934 426881

Well Baby ClinicWhere: Yatton Moor Children’s CentreWhen: 1-3pm 1st and 3rd Thursday of the monthContact: 01934 852927

FridayMidwifeWhere: Ashcombe Children’s CentreWhen: 2-4pmWhat: Appointments onlyContact: 01934 426380

Health Visitor Drop-InWhere: Oldmixon Family CentreWhen: 9–10.30amWhat: Advice & support, baby weighing –attended by a Health Visitor & Family SupportWorker.Contact: 01934 426881


Health VisitorDrop-In/Clinics

MondayPostnatal ChecksWhere: Locking Castle Children’s CentreWhen: 9am-12pmWhat: Postnatal appointments onlyContact: Ashcombe Ward 01934 647082

Health Visitors Well Baby ClinicWhere: Long Ashton Children’s CentreWhen: 1.30-3.15pmContact: Sue or Susan 07775 994259

Ante-Natal ClinicWhere: Oldmixon Family CentreWhen: 1-4pmContact: 0845 345 9177

Health Visitor Drop-In ClinicWhere: Weston Central Children’s CentreWhen: 10-11.30amWhat: A member of the health visiting team willbe available for health advice, behaviourconcerns and much more.Contact: 01934 426794

TuesdayPostnatal ClinicWhere: Ashcombe Children’s CentreWhen: 9.20-12.20pm (please ring)What: Midwife appointmentsContact: Kirsty Gardner 01934 647082

Midwife ClinicWhere: Banwell, Winscombe and SandfordChildren’s Centre

When: 9.30-12pmWhat: Post natal checks availableContact: Your midwife for an appt

Well Baby ClinicWhere: Clevedon Children’s CentreWhen: 1-3pmWhat: Baby advice clinicContact: Rose de Greeff, Lynne Cunniffe andRachel Browne 01275 885514

Early Pregnancy Drop InWhere: Nailsea and Backwell Children’s CentreWhen: 9.30-11.00amContact: 01934 426618

WednesdayBaby ClinicWhere: Banwell, Winscombe and SandfordChildren’s CentreWhen: 1.30-3.30pm 1st and 3rd Wednesday ofthe monthWhat: Health Visitor available for healthadvice, behaviour concerns and much more.Contact: Sara Zinn 01934 844 236

Child Health ClinicWhere: Locking Castle Children’s CentreWhen: 10-12amContact: 01275 885 601

Wednesday Drop-InWhere: The For All Healthy Living CentreWhen: 9–11amWhat: Advice & support, baby weighing –attended by a Health Visitor & Family SupportWorker.Contact: 01934 427550

Midwife ClinicWhere: Weston Central

When: Wednesday afternoons, call for anappointmentContact: 01934 647082

ThursdayHealth Visitor Drop-InWhere: Ashcombe Children’s CentreWhen: 2pm-3.30pmWhat: health visitor drop-in combined with stayand playContact: 01934 426380

Child Health ClinicWhere: Milton and Old Worle Children’s CentreWhen: 9.45-11.15amContact: Worle Health Visitors 01275 885 601Antenatal ClinicWhere: Oldmixon Family CentreWhen: 2-4pm book with midwifeContact: 01934 426881

Well Baby ClinicWhere: Yatton Moor Children’s CentreWhen: 1-3pm 1st and 3rd Thursday of the monthContact: 01934 852927

FridayMidwifeWhere: Ashcombe Children’s CentreWhen: 2-4pmWhat: Appointments onlyContact: 01934 426380

Health Visitor Drop-InWhere: Oldmixon Family CentreWhen: 9–10.30amWhat: Advice & support, baby weighing –attended by a Health Visitor & Family SupportWorker.Contact: 01934 426881


Toddler Time with StorytellingWhen: Mondays during Term Time, 1.30-5pmWhat: Join Ursa and Leo as the Live ScienceTeam take you on an interactive adventurewith afternoon storytelling.

Grand PierT: 01934 620238www.grandpier.co.uk

Party on the PierWhen: 24th MayWhat: A great way to celebrate half term withunlimited rides for a set ticket price

Legends of WestonWhen: 7th June 7:30pmWhat: A great evening of live music with allproceeds going to Children’s Hospice SouthContact: www.grandpier.co.uk/events

Cider Festival featuring the WurzelsWhen: 21strd JuneWhat: Come and enjoy a weekend of ciderfun, including the Wurzuls on 21st June

Wimbledon WeekenderWhen: 29th and 30th JuneWhat: Celebrate Wimbledon in true British styleat the Grand Pier with live tennis, Pimms andstrawberries and cream!

More specials

Chocolate ModelingWhere: M ShedWhat: Join artist Marie Toseland in this familyworkshop to make your own edible sculpture!When: May 28th, book in advanceContact: 0117 352 6600

Lancaster House Open DayWhere: 38 Hill Road, Weston-super-MareWhen: May 2ndContact: 01934 624 116

Living History Week at Weston MuseumWhere: Burlington Street, Weston super MareWhen: Sunday 26th MayWhat: Focusing on the history of Weston-super-MareContact: 01934 621028

Mummy MarketWhere: Long Ashton Village HallWhen: 10am-12noon Saturday 11th MayWhat: Nearly new baby nd toddler table topsaleContact: www.mummymarkets.com

North Somerset Slings MeetWhere: Vintage Church, Hughenden Road,WestonWhat: Meet other parents with an interest incarrying their children in slings and babycarriers.When: First and last Thursday of the month 10-11.30amContact: Katie 07846 280720 www.ns-slings.co.uk

Somerset Pregnancy and Baby Fair 2013Where: Bridgwater CollegeWhen: Saturday 18th May, 10-4pmWhat: Lots of pregnancy and baby relatedexhibitors under one roof, £1 entry free goodybag for the first 200 people.Contact: [email protected]

SpellboundWhere: The Playhouse Theatre, WestonWhen: Sunday 12th May 7pmWhat: An evening of great illusions, comedyand amazing magic for all the family.Contact: 01934 645544

Step by Step YattonWhere: Horsecastle ChapelWhat: Additional Needs Support GroupsWhen: 13th of May, 3rd of June and 1st July

Weston Beach Kite FestivalWhere: Weston BeachWhen: 8th and 9th of June

West Somerset Railway Day out with ThomasWhen: Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th andSaturday 13th and Sunday 14th JulyWhat: Enjoy a day out with Thomas and Friendswith lots of exciting things to see and doContact: www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk01643 704 996

Yatton Summer CarnivalWhere: Yatton Infant SchoolWhen: Saturday June 22nd, 3-5pm

directoryCall 07909 903120 to be included


Mum's Diary North Somerset May June 2013

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Transcript of Mum's Diary North Somerset May June 2013